bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial distributions and clutch sizes of Drosophila species ovipositing on cherry fruits of different stages
Authors: Mitsui Hideyuki , Takahashi Kazuo H. , Kimura Masahito T.
Published: April 2006

In the aggregation theory, aggregation of eggs is one of important conditions for the coexistence of species. However, aggregation of eggs by clutch laying does not always promote coexistence, whereas aggregation of eggs by aggregated distributions of ovipositing females always has a significant contribution to the coexistence. In this study, spatial distributions of three Drosophila species across naturally occurring cherry fruits were studied with relation to their clutch sizes. Drosophila suzukii oviposited eggs mainly on fresh fruits on trees, and its eggs were randomly distributed across cherry fruits. The emergence data also indicated random spatial distributions of this species. Random egg distributions of this species are explained by random visits of females to fruits and the production of clutches of mostly single eggs. On the other hand, D. lutescens and D. rufa oviposited on fallen fruits, showed aggregated distributions in the emergence data, and frequently produced clutches of a few eggs. In these species, the degree of aggregation was usually significantly lower than the expectation based on random visits of females to fruits and their clutch sizes observed in the present experiments, indicating that their aggregation is unlikely to arise from aggregated distributions of ovipositing females. Thus, the spatial aggregation of these species does not necessarily lead to their coexistence.
Visualizing cytoskeleton dynamics in mammalian cells using a humanized variant of monomeric red fluorescent protein
Authors: Fischer Markus , Haase Ilka , Wiesner Sebastian , Müller-Taubenberger Annette
Published: April 2006

Fluorescent proteins are versatile tools for live cell imaging studies. In particular, recent progress was achieved in the development of monomeric red fluorescent proteins (mRFPs) that show improved properties in respect to maturation and intracellular fluorescence. mRFPmars, a red fluorescent protein designed especially for the use in Dictyostelium, proved to be a brilliant label for different cytoskeletal elements. Here we report on the synthesis of a humanized version of a monomeric RFP, mRFPruby, which differs in sequence from mRFPmars in four amino acids and has a codon usage that is optimized for the application in mammalian cells. In order to demonstrate the usefulness of this new mRFP variant, mRFPruby fused to β‐actin was expressed in different mouse cell lines and used to visualize actin cytoskeleton dynamics by live cell microscopy.
Biology of vascular endothelial growth factors
Authors: Roy Himadri , Bhardwaj Shalini , Ylä-Herttuala Seppo
Published: April 2006

Angiogenesis is the process by which new blood vessels are formed from existing vessels. The vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are considered as key molecules in the process of angiogenesis. The VEGF family currently includes VEGF‐A, ‐B, ‐C, ‐D, ‐E, ‐F and placenta growth factor (PlGF), that bind in a distinct pattern to three structurally related receptor tyrosine kinases, denoted VEGF receptor‐1, ‐2, and ‐3. VEGF‐C and VEGF‐D also play a crucial role in the process of lymphangiogenesis. Here, we review the biology of VEGFs and evaluate their role in pathological angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
Shell growth of sea scallops (Placopecten magellanicus) in the southern and northern Great South Channel, USA
Authors: Harris Bradley P. , Stokesbury Kevin D.E.
Published: April 2006

Shell growth of sea scallops in two commercially productive regions of the Great South Channel (GSC) (41°4′N 69°16′W) was studied using tag–recapture experiments. Commercial fishers captured and returned 9.7% of the 11 704 sea scallops tagged in the southern GSC study area, and 7.9% of the 18 274 sea scallops tagged in the northern GSC study area. Scallop density and shell height distribution were sampled with underwater video in the two study areas. In the southern GSC tagged scallops grew faster, reached larger asymptotic size, and had higher growth performance (Φ′) than in the northern GSC study area. Mean sea scallop density in the southern GSC was 0.117 scallops m−2 (s.e. = 0.01), and 2.601 scallops m−2 (s.e. = 0.28) in the northern GSC. Environmental factors, fishing pressure, and sea scallop density all influence shell growth on a fine geographic scale (1–100 km2) and should be considered in area-specific management strategies, such as that currently used in the USA sea scallop fishery.
Ageing changes in cat brains demonstrated by β-amyloid and AT8-immunoreactive phosphorylated tau deposits
Authors: Gunn-Moore Danièlle A. , McVee Jill , Bradshaw Janet M. , Pearson Geoffrey R. , Head Elizabeth , Gunn-Moore Francis J.
Published: April 2006

The life expectancy of domestic pet cats is increasing, along with the occurrence of geriatric-onset behavioural problems, such as cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS). While the cause of CDS is unclear, it has been suggested that it may result from age-related neurodegeneration. In aged and in particular senile human beings, histopathological changes may include the extracellular accumulation of plaque-like deposits of β-amyloid (Aβ) protein and the intracellular accumulation of an abnormally hyperphosphorylated form of the microtubule-associated protein, tau. In severe cases, the latter may form into neurofibrillary tangles. Brain material was assessed from 19 cats, aged from 16 weeks to 14 years; 17 of which had clinical signs of neurological dysfunction. Immunohistochemical methods were used to detect Aβ and its intracellular precursor protein (amyloid precursor protein (APP)) and hyperphosphorylated-tau.

APP was constitutively expressed, with diffuse staining of neurons and blood vessels being detected in all cats. More intense staining and diffuse extracellular Aβ staining deposits were found within the deep cortical areas of the anterior- and occasionally mid-cerebrum of seven cats, all of which were over 10 years of age. Neurons staining intensely positive for AT8-immunoreactivity were seen in two cats, aged 11 and 13 years. However, no mature neurofibrillary tangles were detected. This study demonstrated that extracellular Aβ accumulation and AT8-immunoreactivity within neurons are age-related phenomena in cats, and that they can occur concurrently. There are similarities between these changes and those observed in the brains of aged people and other old mammals.
Diagnosis and treatment of a feline oral mast cell tumor
Authors: Wright Zachary M. , Chretin John D.
Published: April 2006

A cat was diagnosed with an oral mast cell tumor following incisional biopsy. The location of the tumor, possible metastasis, financial restraint and patient disposition severely limited therapeutic options. The patient was treated with six doses of 1-(2-chloroethyl)3-cyclohexyl-1-nitrosurea (CCNU) and methylprednisolone acetate. Complete remission was obtained after the third dosing regimen. This is the first documented case of feline oral mast cell tumor and one of a small group of cats with various cancers to be responsive to CCNU treatment.
Treatment of Fractures of the Humeral Capitellum Using Herbert Screws
Authors: MAHIROGULLARI M. , KIRAL A. , SOLAKOGLU C. , PEHLIVAN O. , AKMAZ I. , RODOP O.
Published: April 2006

Isolated fractures of the capitellum are rare injuries and account for 1% of all elbow injuries. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical outcomes of 11 Type I capitellum fractures treated by open reduction and internal fixation using at least two standard Herbert screws between 1998 and 2003. The average age of the patients was 27.5 years. The mean follow-up time was 23.4 months. The final postoperative assessment was made at the 12th month. The results were evaluated according to the Mayo Elbow Performance Index. We obtained excellent result in eight patients and good result in three patients. We recommend open reduction and fixation with Herbert screws inserted from the posterior surface of the lateral epicondyle and early mobilization in Type I fractures of the capitellum.
JACOBI COHOMOLOGY, LOCAL GEOMETRY OF MODULI SPACES, AND HITCHIN CONNECTIONS
Authors: RAN ZIV
Published: April 2006

We develop some cohomological tools for the study of the local geometry of moduli and parameter spaces in complex Algebraic Geometry. Notably, we develop canonical formulae for the differential operators of arbitrary order and their natural action on suitable `natural' modules (for example, functions); in particular, we obtain a formula, in terms of the moduli problem, for the Lie bracket of vector fields on a moduli space. As an application, we obtain another construction and proof of flatness for the familiar KZW or Hitchin connection on moduli spaces of curves.
SYMPATHY, DIFFERENCE, AND EDUCATION: SOCIAL UNITY IN THE WORK OF ADAM SMITH
Authors: WEINSTEIN JACK RUSSELL
Published: April 2006

In this article, I examine Adam Smith's theory of the ways individuals in society bridge social and biological difference. In doing so, I emphasize the divisive effects of gender, race, and class to see if Smith's account of social unity can overcome such fractious forces. My discussion uses the metaphor of “proximity” to mean both physical and psychological distance between moral actors and spectators. I suggest that education – both formal and informal in means – can assist moral judgment by helping agents minimize the effects of proximity, and, ultimately, learn commonality where difference may otherwise seem overwhelming. This article uses the methods of the history of philosophy in order to examine an issue within contemporary discourse. While I seek to offer an authentic reading of Smith representative of his eighteenth-century perspective, I do so with an eye towards determining the extent to which Smith anticipated central issues in modern multiculturalism.
Defining the International Public Enemy: The Political Struggle behind the Legal Debate on International Terrorism
Authors: FRIEDRICHS JÖRG
Published: April 2006

Who shall have the power to define international terrorism? To answer this question, which means determining the international public enemy, is an eminently political task. According to Carl Schmitt, politics is essentially about determining the public enemy. When it comes to a situation of emergency, whoever is in the position to distinguish friend from enemy holds ultimate power. While Schmitt was still thinking primarily in terms of the nation-state, the determination of the public enemy has now become an international issue. To demonstrate this point, this article examines the political struggle behind the legal debate on the definition of international terrorism. This is done by comparing two debates on international terrorism, one held in the 1970s and the other in the 2000s. Both these debates had, and still have, their institutional locus in the UN General Assembly and its Legal Committee. In the 1970s the non-aligned countries tried to challenge the discretion of the West in determining the international public enemy. In the 2000s the incumbent regimes of the Third World agree with Western states that terrorism is a common threat. The main cleavage is now between the leading Western powers that would like to determine the public enemy on a case-by-case basis (the United States and the United Kingdom), and the status quo states that would like to tie these hegemonic powers by a legal definition. It is precisely the absence of such a legal definition that makes it possible for the hegemonic powers and their followers to determine the international public enemy on a case-by-case basis. A legal definition would increase the coherence of the international coalition against terrorism and serve as a limitation on the discretionary power of the hegemonic states.
Sudan, Resolution 1593, and International Criminal Justice
Authors: CRYER ROBERT
Published: April 2006

The UN Security Council has recently referred the situation in Darfur, Sudan, to the International Criminal Court. This has been hailed as a breakthrough in international criminal justice. However, aspects of the referral resolution can be criticized from the point of view of their consistency with both the Rome Statute and the UN Charter. The limitations of the referral with respect to whom the Court may investigate also raise issues with respect to the rule of law. In addition, Sudan has accused the Security Council of acting in a neo-colonial fashion by referring the situation in Darfur to the Court. This article investigates these criticisms against the background of the international system in which international criminal law operates, and concludes that although the referral cannot be considered neo-colonial in nature, the referral can be criticized as selective and as an incomplete reaction to the crisis in Darfur. The referral remains, however, a positive step.
Local cluster dynamics: trajectories of mature industrial districts between decline and multiple embeddedness
Authors: ZUCCHELLA ANTONELLA
Published: April 2006

In this study the international trajectories of mature district evolution are investigated as a special case of institutional change, and a theoretical model for their evolution is proposed. This model is based on the idea that international growth and re-positioning represent the fundamental alternative to district sterilization and decline, in a framework where global markets provide the major pressure for change or decline but could also provide new opportunities for renewal. Alternative paths emerge from the combination of trigger events due to globalization and district leaders' behaviour: disembeddedness, re-embeddedness and multiple embeddedness are proposed here as the three main outcomes of mature district evolution. The latter constitutes a new construct introduced in this study in order to explore the possibility that districts relate themselves to global space creating similar systems abroad and/or establishing ties with existing systems, each one representing both a local network and a node of a global network.
Normwerte für das Vereinfachte Beck-Depressions-Inventar (BDI-V) in der Allgemeinbevölkerung
Authors: Schmitt Manfred , Altstötter-Gleich Christine , Hinz Andreas , Maes Jürgen , Brähler Elmar
Published: April 2006

Zusammenfassung. Anhand einer Stichprobe von N = 4494 Personen (2418 Männer, 2076 Frauen) wurden Normwerte (Prozentränge, T-Werte, z-Werte) für das vereinfachte Beck-Depressions-Inventar (BDI-V) ermittelt. In Varianzanalysen mit den Faktoren Alter und Geschlecht waren die beiden Haupteffekte und die Interaktion signifikant. Alle drei Effekte waren klein. Das Geschlecht erklärte 1.5% der BDI-V-Varianz, das Alter je nach Gruppierung zwischen 0.6% und 2.3%, die Interaktion je nach Altersgruppierung zwischen 0.4% und 2.1%. Wegen des signifikanten und in allen Altersgruppen konsistenten Geschlechtsunterschieds wurde außer unspezifischen Normen auch getrennte Normen für Männer und Frauen ermittelt. Auf eine altersspezifische Normierung wurden wegen zu geringer Größen geschlechtsspezifischer Altersgruppen verzichtet. Basierend auf den Stichproben einer früheren Untersuchung ( Schmitt, Beckmann, Dusi, Maes, Schiller & Schonauer, 2003 ) werden die Sensitivität und die Spezifität des BDI-V für verschiedene cut-off-Werte geschätzt.
Messung kontra Augenschein:
Authors: Prinz Wolfgang
Published: April 2006

Zusammenfassung. Oskar Pfungsts Untersuchung des Klugen Hans ist ein Meilenstein in der Geschichte der experimentellen Psychologie. Zum einen wies Pfungst nach, dass der Kluge Hans zwar über keine der ihm zugeschriebenen kognitiven Fähigkeiten verfügte (Lesen, Buchstabieren, Zählen, Rechnen, etc.). Zum anderen zeigte er, dass das Pferd dennoch in einem bestimmten Sinn außerordentlich klug war: Es hatte gelernt, minimale Verhaltenssignale, die Personen während der Befragung unwillkürlich aussenden, auszuwerten und dadurch die gestellten Aufgaben scheinbar selbstständig zu lösen. In diesem Beitrag werden einige der wesentlichen Untersuchungen, die Oskar Pfungst mit dem Klugen Hans durchgeführt hat, beschrieben und aus historischer und systematischer Perspektive bewertet.
Paleosecular variation and GAD studies of 0–2 Ma flow sequences from the Aleutian Islands, Alaska
Authors: Stone David B. , Layer Paul W.
Published: April 2006

A study was undertaken in the late 1960s to investigate paleosecular variations of the geomagnetic field as recorded in volcanic rocks from the Aleutian Islands. The early results were internally consistent but to be wholly credible by today's standards needed more detailed demagnetization. Complete thermal demagnetization protocols have been applied to the unmeasured archived samples from the six flow sequences used in the initial study, and40Ar/39Ar techniques have been used to improve the time resolution. The flow sequences have ages ranging from about 50 ka to 2 Ma, and the number of sequential flows in the individual sequences varies from 8 to 21. After strict selection criteria were applied (MAD < 5°, α95 < 5°) for both demagnetization data from samples and samples within one flow, the number of acceptable flows per flow sequence dropped to between 5 and 15. With the exception of a sequence showing transitional field behavior, the between‐flow dispersion and the α95 values for the other sequences were notably low with respect to secular variation models, and their mean directions were very close to the GAD field. Since the time represented by the individual sequences is not well determined, the low dispersion could represent very short eruption times. In contrast, the lack of dispersion with respect to the GAD field can be taken to indicate good time averaging. Since the locations of the sampled flows are at roughly the same latitude (about 50°N) but are spread over about 10° of longitude, the dispersion was calculated for both the locality‐means and the flow‐means. These data represent the whole 2 Myr and give a dispersion which is lower than current secular variation models predict. A similar data set published for locations in western Canada that are at roughly the same latitude and overlap in age with the Aleutian sites gives dispersions that are close to the model predictions. At face value this can be interpreted as indicating low secular variation for the Aleutian sites.
Radiocarbon constraint on relict organic carbon contributions to Ross Sea sediments
Authors: Ohkouchi Naohiko , Eglinton Timothy I.
Published: April 2006

We estimate the relative contribution of relict organic matter to the acid‐insoluble organic carbon (AIOC) fraction of surface sediments from Ross Sea, Antarctica, on the basis of 14C abundance. The bulk isotopic characteristics of AIOC can largely be explained by simple two‐source models of modern and relict organic carbon, when samples are grouped according to two geographical regions, namely, southwestern and south central Ross Sea. This spatial variability in relict organic carbon could be controlled by proximity to the edge of the Ross Ice Shelf and ice drainage areas. Radiocarbon abundance in the AIOC is potentially an excellent tool to estimate the contribution of relict organic carbon in the Antarctic margin sediments.
Distinct regional differences in crustal thickness along the axis of the Mariana Trough, inferred from gravity anomalies
Authors: Kitada Kazuya , Seama Nobukazu , Yamazaki Toshitsugu , Nogi Yoshifumi , Suyehiro Kiyoshi
Published: April 2006

We have compiled extensive gravity and bathymetry data for the whole Mariana Trough, which were collected during several Japanese scientific cruises over the last few years. This study aims to clarify the lateral distribution of the local differences in geochemical signatures, which have been observed locally in the Mariana Trough. Shipboard free‐air gravity anomaly data from eight Japan Agency for Marine‐Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) cruises were compiled with those crossover errors of 2.85 mgal. Mantle Bouguer anomalies (MBA) were calculated by subtracting the predictable gravity signal due to the seawater/crust and crust/mantle density boundaries. The crustal thickness variation along the spreading axis was estimated from the MBA. Different features in crustal thickness, its variation, and segment length for each segment, allow us to identify four distinct regional differences in magmatic activity along the spreading axis of the Mariana Trough. Segment in region A (to the north of 20°35′N) shows the largest sectional dimensions of crust along the axis and it is probably affected by an additional supply from island arc magma sources. A variety of crustal thickness values and of along‐axis crustal thickness variations in region B (between 15°38′N and 20°35′N) suggests two types of segments. One is similar to a slow spreading ridge segment that has a plume‐like mantle upwelling under the spreading axis, and the other is a magma‐starved segment. Region C (between 14°22′N and 15°38′N) is a less magmatic region (individual crustal thickness averages of 3.4–4.1 km). Region D (to the south of 14°22′N) has higher individual crustal thickness averages of 5.9–6.9 km, suggesting higher magmatic activity with a sheet‐like mantle upwelling under the spreading axis. Different features in the MBA for off‐axis areas suggest that these four regions have existed since the Mariana Trough started spreading. Moreover, comparison between our results of crustal thickness and previous geochemical results indicates that less magmatic spreading segments with thin crust, which are locally distributed in both regions B and C, probably result from mantle source depleted of water and incompatible elements. This suggests that lateral compositional variation of water and incompatible elements exists on a segment scale in the mantle source beneath the spreading axis of the Mariana Trough.
Partitioning of potassium between iron and silicate at the core‐mantle boundary
Authors: Hirao Naohisa , Ohtani Eiji , Kondo Tadashi , Endo Noriaki , Kuba Toshiko , Suzuki Toshiaki , Kikegawa Takumi
Published: April 2006

Chemical reactions and the partitioning of potassium between metallic iron and potassium‐silicate were studied at the core–mantle boundary (CMB) condition, 2900 km deep in the Earth, in a laser‐heated diamond‐anvil cell (LHDAC). Analytical transmission electron microscope (ATEM) analysis of the recovered samples from 134 GPa and 3500 K, prepared with Focused Ion Beam (FIB) techniques, revealed significant dissolution of potassium (0.8 wt.%) into molten iron, indicating that the partition coefficient of potassium between iron and silicate is 0.15. Our results show that the Earth's core can contain 35 ppm total potassium, i.e., 4.1 × 10−3 ppm of 40K, which could serve as a heat source corresponding to 0.23 TW in the Earth's core.
Constraints on thermochemical convection of the mantle from plume heat flux, plume excess temperature, and upper mantle temperature
Authors: Zhong Shijie
Published: April 2006

Seismic and geochemical observations indicate a compositionally heterogeneous mantle in the lower mantle, suggesting a layered mantle. The volume and composition of each layer, however, remain poorly constrained. This study seeks to constrain the layered mantle model from observed plume excess temperature, plume heat flux, and upper mantle temperature. Three‐dimensional spherical models of whole mantle and layered mantle convection are computed for different Rayleigh number, internal heat generation, buoyancy number, and bottom layer thickness for layered mantle models. The model results show that these observations are controlled by internal heating rate in the layer overlying the thermal boundary layer from which mantle plumes are originated. To reproduce the observations, internal heating rate needs ∼65% for whole mantle convection, but for layered mantle models, the internal heating rate for the top layer is ∼60–65% for averaged bottom layer thicknesses <∼1100 km. The heat flux at the core‐mantle boundary (CMB) is constrained to be ∼12.6 TW for whole mantle convection. For layered mantle, an upper bound on the CMB heat flux is ∼14.4 TW. For mantle secular cooling rate of ∼80 K/Ga, the current study suggests that the top layer of a layered mantle is relatively thick (>2520 km) and has radiogenic heat generation rate >2.82 × 10−12 W/kg that is >3 times of that for the depleted mantle source for mid‐ocean ridge basalts (DMM). For the top layer to have the radiogenic heat generation of the DMM, mantle secular cooling rate needs to exceed 145 K/Ga. The current study also shows that plume temperature in the upper mantle is about half of the CMB temperature for whole mantle convection or ∼0.6 of temperature at compositional boundary for a layered mantle, independent of internal heating rate and Rayleigh number. Finally, the model calculations confirm that mantle plumes accounts for the majority (∼80%) of CMB heat flux in whole mantle convection models. However, plume heat flux decreases significantly by as much as a factor of 3, as plumes ascend through the mantle to the upper mantle, owing to the adiabatic and possibly diffusive cooling of the plumes and owing to slight (∼180 K) subadiabaticity in mantle geotherm.
Estimating the Risk of Future Reading Difficulties in Kindergarten Children
Authors: Catts Hugh W. , Fey Marc E. , Zhang Xuyang , Tomblin J. Bruce
Published: April 2006

Purpose:
Speech-language pathologists have the skills and knowledge needed to play an important role in the early identification of children who are at risk for reading difficulties. Whereas research has identified language and other factors that may be predictive of future reading problems, studies have not provided the statistical models and classification data needed for the implementation of early identification programs. In this paper, we report the results of a longitudinal study that examined kindergarten predictors of second-grade reading outcome.

Method:
Six hundred and four children were given a battery of language, early literacy, and nonverbal cognitive measures in kindergarten as part of an epidemiologic study of language impairments in children. Follow-up testing of reading achievement was completed in second grade. Participants were divided into those children with and without reading difficulties.

Results:
Findings indicated that five kindergarten variables (letter identification, sentence imitation, phonological awareness, rapid naming, and mother’s education) uniquely predicted reading outcome in second grade.

Clinical Implications:
A logistic regression formula and classification data based on these results are provided. Suggestions are offered concerning how this information could be used in an early identification and intervention program for children who are at risk for reading difficulties.
Literate Language Features in Spoken Narratives of Children With Typical Language and Children With Language Impairments
Authors: Greenhalgh Kellie S. , Strong Carol J.
Published: April 2006

Purpose:This study focused on literate language features in spoken narratives of school-age children with typical language development and school-age children with language impairments (LI).

Method:The spoken narrative retellings from male and female children aged 7 to 10 years were analyzed. The samples yielded scores for the literate language features of conjunctions, elaborated noun phrases, mental and linguistic verbs, and adverbs. A general language performance measure (number of different words) also was studied.

Results:Group membership main effects were statistically significant for conjunctions and elaborated noun phrases, with effect sizes ranging from small to moderate. No statistically significant differences were obtained for age level or gender. Correlations between scores for number of different words and scores for the literate language features were low to moderate.

Clinical Implications:The measures of conjunctions and elaborated noun phrases differentiated children with LI from those with typical language. When the number of different words was normalized for sample length, support for its use as a general language performance measure was not obtained.
Spelling Development and Disability
Authors: Bourassa Derrick C. , Treiman Rebecca
Published: April 2006

This article reviews the literature on normal and impaired spelling development in English. Once children begin to learn that the function of alphabetic writing is to represent the sounds of language, they go through the process of learning sound-spelling correspondences in increasingly fine detail. Continued experience with print allows children to learn about orthographic and morphological conventions of the language. Within this general framework, the authors describe research that underscores the importance of fine-grained linguistic analyses of spelling performance. It is concluded that such an approach holds a great deal of promise for theory and practice.
Whole-Word Phonology and Templates
Authors: Velleman Shelley L. , Vihman Marilyn M.
Published: April 2006

Advances in psycholinguistics have identified cognitive mechanisms that may account for the phenomena of whole-word phonology and phonological templates in normally developing children. Deficits in these same mechanisms may also account for certain types of disordered phonologies. In this paper, these cognitive mechanisms are described, strategies for identifying whole-word phonological patterns in normal and disordered phonologies are proposed, and intervention strategies that draw on these same mechanisms as a way to overcome their inappropriate persistence are recommended.
Designing and Implementing an Early Literacy Screening Protocol
Authors: Justice Laura M. , Invernizzi Marcia A. , Meier Joanne D.
Published: April 2006

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (2001) recently asserted that speech-language pathologists can and should play an important role in promoting literacy for young children with communicative impairments. Early literacy screening provides a valuable tool for speech-language pathologists to use for the timely detection of difficulties in literacy achievement. In addition, results of early literacy screening can be used to guide intervention and instruction. This article provides a rationale for incorporating early literacy screening into service delivery. It also makes recommendations for determining which children and what areas of literacy should be targeted in screening activities. Suggestions for interpreting findings are also provided, as are strategies for using screening to guide early literacy intervention.
School-Based Services for Children With Cochlear Implants
Authors: Teagle Holly F. B. , Moore Jan A.
Published: April 2006

School-based speech, language, and hearing professionals are instrumental in the provision of rehabilitative, consultative, and support services for children with cochlear implants. This article reviews current candidacy requirements as well as factors that are considered when a child is evaluated for a cochlear implant. Following implantation, school professionals play a pivotal role in providing an appropriate educational program that should include auditory training and the integration of listening into the child’s daily routine. The article presents procedures for maintaining and troubleshooting the device, and suggestions for establishing routines for device use and for improving the listening environment for children in classrooms.
Home Literacy Experiences and Their Relationship to Bilingual Preschoolers’ Developing English Literacy Abilities
Authors: Hammer Carol Scheffner , Miccio Adele W. , Wagstaff David A.
Published: April 2006

Purpose:This study investigated the relationship between home literacy experiences and bilingual preschoolers’ early literacy outcomes.

Method:Forty-three Puerto Rican mother-child dyads recruited from Head Start programs in central Pennsylvania participated in this study of home literacy experiences and emerging English literacy abilities. The dyads were grouped according to whether the children had learned Spanish and English from birth (simultaneously;n= 28) or Spanish from birth and English in Head Start (sequentially;n= 15). Mothers of simultaneous and sequential learners were compared on the value they placed on literacy, press for achievement, the number of reading materials that were available in the home, and how often they read to their child. The children were compared on their scores on the Test of Early Reading Ability-2 (Reid, Hresko, & Hammill, 1991), which was given during the first and second years of their Head Start program.

Results:Mothers of simultaneous and sequential learners differed with regard to mothers’ press for achievement. No differences were found between the two groups with respect to the other measures. When the early literacy abilities of the two groups of children were assessed, all learners had comparable mean emergent reading scores. The mean literacy scores of the entire group of children were significantly lower at Year 2 as compared to Year 1.

Clinical Implications:Although the children experienced literacy activities at home and in Head Start, it appears that children’s literacy development would benefit from increased exposure to literacy materials and literacy events during the preschool years.
Early Identification of and Intervention for Infants and Toddlers Who Are at Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Woods Juliann J. , Wetherby Amy M.
Published: April 2006

Providing intensive early intervention is critical to maximizing outcomes for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and evidence suggests that the earlier intervention can begin, the better the outcome. The first purpose of this article is to review the earliest indicators of ASD in very young children—social and communication impairments—which have important implications for early identification. The second purpose is to review evidence-based intervention practices for children with ASD and to develop a set of guiding principles for providing intervention for infants and toddlers who are at risk for ASD. Issues that are delineated include providing intervention in natural environments, supporting families in early intervention, and embedding intervention in daily routines.
Interdisciplinary Assessment of Young Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Prelock Patricia A. , Beatson Jean , Bitner Brooke , Broder Carri , Ducker Amy
Published: April 2006

This paper describes an interdisciplinary model for the assessment of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) that includes families as active participants and collaborators in the process. Family-centered care, cultural competence, and a strengths perspective provide the theoretical foundation for the assessment model. Steps in the assessment process include assignment of an assessment coordinator, intake, preassessment planning, community-based assessment, postassessment planning, report writing, community follow-up, and resource notebook development. Preliminary research examining the effectiveness of the assessment model reveals the positive impact of family-centered, culturally competent, and strengths-based service provision (Beatson & Prelock, 2002). The model has implications for school-based practitioners in increasing the role of families in the assessment of children with ASD.
A New Look at Performance on Theory-of-Mind Tasks by Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Silliman Elaine R. , Diehl Sylvia F. , Bahr Ruth Huntley , Hnath-Chisolm Theresa , Zenko Catherine Bouchard , Friedman Stephanie A.
Published: April 2006

Purpose:A hallmark of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) is disruption in theory-of-mind development, including the understanding of false beliefs. Previous studies have typically assessed the development of first- and second-order false belief concepts in ASD, with tasks primarily emphasizing physical causality and logical inferencing. The present study investigated how preadolescents and adolescents with ASD performed on false belief tasks that included social inferencing of psychological states as well as logical inferencing of physical states.

Method:Two categories of tasks were administered: four traditional logical inferencing tasks and four social inferencing tasks specifically developed for this study. In addition, a prompt hierarchy was included to ascertain if performance on both task types improved. Participants were 45 children and adolescents primarily selected from three urban school districts: 15 adolescents with a previous diagnosis of ASD (ASD group); 15 typically developing children matched for age, gender, and ethnicity (CA group); and 15 typically developing children matched for language age, gender, and ethnicity (LA group).

Results:Three findings were pertinent. First, the CA group performed at higher levels than did the LA group and the ASD group on both task sets. Second, although the CA and the LA groups performed equally well on both the logical and the social inferencing tasks, the ASD group performed better on the social inferencing tasks. Finally, the prompt hierarchy significantly improved overall task performance for the ASD and LA groups.

Clinical Implications:These findings indicate that task type, variations in vocabulary ability, and the provision of support influenced performance on the false belief tasks.
Early Intervention Practices and Communication Intervention Strategies for Young Males With Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Mirrett Penny L. , Roberts Joanne E. , Price Johanna
Published: April 2006

Purpose:This study describes speech-language pathologists’ impressions of the communication difficulties of young males with fragile X syndrome (FXS) and the need for both syndrome-specific and individualized interventions. The findings of a regional study that identified speech-language pathologists’ impressions of the speech, language, and behavioral difficulties experienced by males with FXS and an array of interventions used by speech-language pathologists to improve communication skills for these children are reported.

Methods:Fifty-one speech-language pathologists providing intervention for males with FXS ranging in age from 2 to 9 years (mean age=6;3 [years;months]) were interviewed.

Results:The majority of the speech-language pathologists reported that boys with FXS exhibit a visually based, experiential or wholistic learning preference. They emphasized the necessity of making environmental accommodations for limited attention span, difficulties with topic and activity transitions, sensory deficits, and low threshold for anxiety. They reported that speech goals focused on slowing rate and increasing precision for verbal children and both low and high levels of assistive technology for nonverbal or minimally verbal children. Language goals focused on listening, auditory comprehension, and narrative/conversation skills. Pragmatic goals emphasized social dialogue, role playing, and topic maintenance.

Clinical Implications:This study suggests that young males with FXS present the clinician with a constellation of behaviors and communication impairments that are both syndrome specific and symptom familiar. The specific communication strengths and deficits described by clinicians working with these children are common to many children with speech and language impairments compounded by cognitive deficits. Intervention programs for young boys with FXS should also attend closely to the specific behavioral (e.g., increased anxiety, attention deficits) and sensory "overload" problems they often exhibit before designing a tailored intervention program.
Therapy Talk
Authors: Leahy Margaret M.
Published: April 2006

Therapeutic discourse is the talk-in-interaction that represents the social practice between clinician and client. This article invites speech-language pathologists to apply their knowledge of language to analyzing therapy talk and to learn how talking practices shape clinical roles and identities. A range of qualitative research approaches, including ethnography of communication, conversation analysis, and frame theory, provides a background for the case presentation of a 13-year-old girl who stutters. Asymmetry is a feature of the therapeutic discourse presented, with evidence of recognition of the client’s communicative competence emerging. Applications of analyzing therapy talk are discussed, illustrating the relevance of this approach for clinicians.
Language Abilities in Children Who Stutter
Authors: Watkins Ruth V. , Johnson Bonnie W.
Published: April 2006

The nature of the association between language and stuttering in young children has been the focus of debate for many years. One aspect of this ongoing discussion is the status of language abilities in children who stutter (CWS). Available research findings and associated interpretations of these findings are equivocal. This article asserts that an important contributor to the ambiguous nature of this literature may be differences in research traditions and methods that typically have been employed in the study of language development and in the study of stuttering. Cross-disciplinary investigations are inherently complex and, in designing and interpreting research of this nature, a larger set of issues must be considered and more diverse variables must be addressed and/or controlled. This article presents five principles that can be used to guide future research in the area of language and stuttering. These principles also assist in interpreting and applying the current research literature to clinical concerns.
Embedded-Explicit Emergent Literacy Intervention I
Authors: Justice Laura M. , Kaderavek Joan N.
Published: April 2006

This article, the first of a two-part series, provides background information and a general description of an emergent literacy intervention model for at-risk preschoolers and kindergartners. The embedded-explicit intervention model emphasizes the dual importance of providing young children with socially embedded opportunities for meaningful, naturalistic literacy experiences throughout the day, in addition to regular structured therapeutic interactions that explicitly target critical emergent literacy goals. The role of the speech-language pathologist (SLP) in the embedded-explicit model encompasses both indirect and direct service delivery: The SLP consults and collaborates with teachers and parents to ensure the highest quality and quantity of socially embedded literacy-focused experiences and serves as a direct provider of explicit interventions using structured curricula and/or lesson plans. The goal of this integrated model is to provide comprehensive emergent literacy interventions across a spectrum of early literacy skills to ensure the successful transition of at-risk children from prereaders to readers.
African American and Caucasian Preschoolers’ Use of Decontextualized Language
Authors: Curenton Stephanie M. , Justice Laura M.
Published: April 2006

Purpose:Low-income preschoolers’ use of literate language features in oral narratives across three age groups (3-, 4-, and 5-year-olds) and two ethnic groups (Caucasian and African American) was examined.

Method:Sixty-seven preschoolers generated a story using a wordless picture book. The literate language features examined were simple and complex elaborated noun phrases, adverbs, conjunctions, and mental/linguistic verbs.

Results:Literate language features occurred at measurable rates for 3- to 5-year-old children. Conjunction use was positively associated with the use of complex elaborated noun phrases and adverbs, and the use of complex and simple elaborated noun phrases was inversely related. There were no differences between African American and Caucasian children’s usage rates. Age-related differences were observed in the use of mental/linguistic verbs and conjunctions.

Clinical Implications:The importance of supporting decontextualized language skills during the preschool period is discussed.
Learning New Words From Storybooks
Authors: Justice Laura M. , Meier Joanne , Walpole Sharon
Published: April 2006

Purpose:
The extant literature suggests that exposure to novel vocabulary words through repeated readings of storybooks influences children’s word learning, and that adult elaboration of words in context can accelerate vocabulary growth. This study examined the influence of small-group storybook reading sessions on the acquisition of vocabulary words for at-risk kindergartners, and the impact of word elaboration on learning. An additional goal was to study differential responses to treatment for children with high versus low vocabulary skill.

Method:
Using a pretest-posttest comparison group research design, 57 kindergartners were randomly assigned to a treatment (
n
= 29) or comparison (
n
= 28) group. Children were also differentiated into high (
n
= 31) versus low (
n
= 26) vocabulary skill groups using scores on a standardized receptive vocabulary test. Children in the treatment group completed 20 small-group storybook reading sessions during which they were exposed to 60 novel words randomly assigned to non-elaborated and elaborated conditions. Pre- and posttest examined the quality of children’s definitions for the 60 novel words.

Results:
Overall, word-learning gains were modest. Children in the treatment group made significantly greater gains in elaborated words relative to children in the comparison group; no influence of storybook reading exposure was seen for non-elaborated words. Children with low vocabulary scores made the greatest gains on elaborated words.

Clinical Implications:
Suggestions are offered for using storybooks as a clinical tool for fostering vocabulary development. As an efficacy study, results should inform future applied research on word learning for at-risk children.
Use of a Parent Questionnaire in Emergent and Early Literacy Assessment of Preschool Children
Authors: Boudreau Donna
Published: April 2006

Purpose:
The purpose of this project was to evaluate the use of a parent questionnaire in the assessment of emergent and early literacy skills of preschool children with language impairments (LI) and their typically developing (TD) peers to determine the relationship between parent report and more formal measures of early literacy, as well as to compare home literacy practices of these two groups of children.

Method:
Preschool children with LI (
n
= 17) were referred by area school district speech-language pathologists, and age-matched peers (
n
= 20) were recruited from local preschools. Examiner-administered measures of early literacy included assessment of rhyme, knowledge of environmental print, knowledge of print conventions, and letter-name and letter-sound knowledge, as well as analyses of narrative abilities. The parent questionnaire included 31 closed questions with responses chosen on a 5-point scale that addressed a number of domains of knowledge: phonological awareness, response to print in the environment, alphabet knowledge, interactions around books, writing, orientation to literacy, and parent practices, in addition to a number of open-ended questions.

Results:
Results revealed a strong relationship between examiner-administered measures of early literacy and parent report for the children with LI only. Parents of children with LI rated their children more poorly across domains of literacy knowledge than did parents of the comparison group. Finally, a comparison of home literacy practices found differences between the groups in time spent watching television, age parents began reading to the child, and number of books owned by the child.

Clinical Implications:
Findings support the use of parent report as a tool in the assessment of emergent and early literacy knowledge and skills for children with LI.