bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Airborne EM mapping of rockslides and tunneling hazards
Authors: Pfaffhuber A. A. , Grimstad E. , Domaas U. , Auken E. , Foged N. , Halkjær M.
Published: August 2010

We have investigated potential rockslides in Western Norway using a time- and cost-efficient airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey approach. The study area comprises phyllite, a low-grade metamorphic rock type that tends to be reworked to clay in disturbed zones. Mapping these electrically conductive clay zones was the aim of the AEM survey. Based on indications that precipitation drives the reported rockslide movements, the local municipality and regional hydroelectricity company are evaluating the option of draining the unstable area to a nearby hydropower reservoir using a drainage tunnel of more than 10 km. We conducted the AEM mapping survey to locate the sliding planes and to investigate the tunnel corridor for areas with potential tunneling hazards. Spatially constrained inversion of the data set (250 km) reveals extended conductive zones interpreted as sliding planes and/or gneiss/phyllite interface. Detailed follow-up of these initial results is planned with targeted percussion drilling and ground resistivity surveys.
Application of shallow shear-wave seismic reflection methods in earthquake hazards studies
Authors: Harris James B.
Published: August 2010

In engineering geophysics, the use of shear-wave seismic methods for earthquake hazards analysis has primarily been limited to site-specific downhole, crosshole, and refraction studies for velocities to model site response to earthquake shaking and/or liquefaction potential. This paper demonstrates the utility of S-wave reflection methods in earthquake hazards studies, focusing on areas where collection of high-quality compressional-wave reflection data is problematic. Specific examples will show how S-wave reflection data help interpret the age, style, and extent of near-surface deformation in the New Madrid seismic zone of the central United States, and in mapping the Holocene-Pleistocene surface beneath the Fraser River delta in southwestern British Columbia (Canada).
HER2 and Chromosome 17 Effect on Patient Outcome in the N9831 Adjuvant Trastuzumab Trial
Authors: Perez Edith A. , Reinholz Monica M. , Hillman David W. , Tenner Kathleen S. , Schroeder Matthew J. , Davidson Nancy E. , Martino Silvana , Sledge George W. , Harris Lyndsay N. , Gralow Julie R. , Dueck Amylou C. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Ingle James N. , Lingle Wilma L. , Kaufman Peter A. , Visscher Daniel W. , Jenkins Robert B.
Published: August 2010

Purpose

We examined associations between tumor characteristics (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 [HER2] protein expression, HER2 gene and chromosome 17 copy number, hormone receptor status) and disease-free survival (DFS) of patients in the N9831 adjuvant trastuzumab trial.

Patients and Methods

All patients (N = 1,888) underwent chemotherapy with doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide, followed by weekly paclitaxel with or without concurrent trastuzumab. HER2 status was determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) at a central laboratory, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. Patients with conflicting local positive HER2 expression results but normal central laboratory testing were included in the analyses (n = 103).

Results

Patients with HER2-positive tumors (IHC 3+, FISH HER2/centromere 17 ratio ≥ 2.0, or both) benefited from trastuzumab, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 0.46, 0.49, and 0.45, respectively (all P < .0001). Patients with HER2-amplified tumors with polysomic (p17) or normal (n17) chromosome 17 copy number also benefited from trastuzumab, with HRs of 0.52 and 0.37, respectively (P < .006). Patients who received chemotherapy alone and had HER2-amplified and p17 tumors had a longer DFS than those who had n17 (78% v 68%; P = .04), irrespective of hormone receptor status or tumor grade. Patients with HER2-normal tumors by central testing (n = 103) seemed to benefit from trastuzumab, but the difference was not statistically significant (HR, 0.51; P = .14). Patients with hormone receptor–positive or –negative tumors benefited from the addition of trastuzumab, with HRs of 0.42 (P = .005) and 0.60 (P = .0001), respectively.

Conclusion

These results confirm that IHC or FISH HER2 testing is appropriate for patient selection for adjuvant trastuzumab therapy. Trastuzumab benefit seemed independent of HER2/centromere 17 ratio and chromosome 17 copy number.
Long-Term Follow-Up of Patients With Follicular Lymphoma Receiving Single-Agent Rituximab at Two Different Schedules in Trial SAKK 35/98
Authors: Martinelli Giovanni , Hsu Schmitz Shu-Fang , Utiger Urs , Cerny Thomas , Hess Urs , Bassi Simona , Okkinga Emmie , Stupp Roger , Stahel Rolf , Heizmann Marc , Vorobiof Daniel , Lohri Andreas , Dietrich Pierre-Yves , Zucca Emanuele , Ghielmini Michele
Published: August 2010

Purpose

We report the long-term results of a randomized clinical trial comparing induction therapy with once per week for 4 weeks single-agent rituximab alone versus induction followed by 4 cycles of maintenance therapy every 2 months in patients with follicular lymphoma.

Patients and Methods

Patients (prior chemotherapy 138; chemotherapy-naive 64) received single-agent rituximab and if nonprogressive, were randomly assigned to no further treatment (observation) or four additional doses of rituximab given at 2-month intervals (prolonged exposure).

Results

At a median follow-up of 9.5 years and with all living patients having been observed for at least 5 years, the median event-free survival (EFS) was 13 months for the observation and 24 months for the prolonged exposure arm (P < .001). In the observation arm, patients without events at 8 years were 5%, while in the prolonged exposure arm they were 27%. Of previously untreated patients receiving prolonged treatment after responding to rituximab induction, at 8 years 45% were still without event. The only favorable prognostic factor for EFS in a multivariate Cox regression was the prolonged rituximab schedule (hazard ratio, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.39 to 0.88; P = .009), whereas being chemotherapy naive, presenting with stage lower than IV, and showing a VV phenotype at position 158 of the Fc-gamma RIIIA receptor were not of independent prognostic value. No long-term toxicity potentially due to rituximab was observed.

Conclusion

An important proportion of patients experienced long-term remission after prolonged exposure to rituximab, particularly if they had no prior treatment and responded to rituximab induction.
In Situ Vaccination With a TLR9 Agonist Induces Systemic Lymphoma Regression: A Phase I/II Study
Authors: Brody Joshua D. , Ai Weiyun Z. , Czerwinski Debra K. , Torchia James A. , Levy Mia , Advani Ranjana H. , Kim Youn H. , Hoppe Richard T. , Knox Susan J. , Shin Lewis K. , Wapnir Irene , Tibshirani Robert J. , Levy Ronald
Published: August 2010

Purpose

Combining tumor antigens with an immunostimulant can induce the immune system to specifically eliminate cancer cells. Generally, this combination is accomplished in an ex vivo, customized manner. In a preclinical lymphoma model, intratumoral injection of a Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) agonist induced systemic antitumor immunity and cured large, disseminated tumors.

Patients and Methods

We treated 15 patients with low-grade B-cell lymphoma using low-dose radiotherapy to a single tumor site and—at that same site—injected the C-G enriched, synthetic oligodeoxynucleotide (also referred to as CpG) TLR9 agonist PF-3512676. Clinical responses were assessed at distant, untreated tumor sites. Immune responses were evaluated by measuring T-cell activation after in vitro restimulation with autologous tumor cells.

Results

This in situ vaccination maneuver was well-tolerated with only grade 1 to 2 local or systemic reactions and no treatment-limiting adverse events. One patient had a complete clinical response, three others had partial responses, and two patients had stable but continually regressing disease for periods significantly longer than that achieved with prior therapies. Vaccination induced tumor-reactive memory CD8 T cells. Some patients' tumors were able to induce a suppressive, regulatory phenotype in autologous T cells in vitro; these patients tended to have a shorter time to disease progression. One clinically responding patient received a second course of vaccination after relapse resulting in a second, more rapid clinical response.

Conclusion

In situ tumor vaccination with a TLR9 agonist induces systemic antilymphoma clinical responses. This maneuver is clinically feasible and does not require the production of a customized vaccine product.
Continental Divide? The Attitudes of US and Canadian Oncologists on the Costs, Cost-Effectiveness, and Health Policies Associated With New Cancer Drugs
Authors: Berry Scott R. , Bell Chaim M. , Ubel Peter A. , Evans William K. , Nadler Eric , Strevel Elizabeth L. , Neumann Peter J.
Published: August 2010

Purpose

Oncologists in the United States and Canada work in different health care systems, but physicians in both countries face challenges posed by the rising costs of cancer drugs. We compared their attitudes regarding the costs and cost-effectiveness of medications and related health policy.

Methods

Survey responses of a random sample of 1,355 United States and 238 Canadian medical oncologists (all outside of Québec) were compared.

Results

Response rate was 59%. More US oncologists (67% v 52%; P < .001) favor access to effective treatments regardless of cost, while more Canadians favor access to effective treatments only if they are cost-effective (75% v 58%; P < .001). Most (84% US, 80% Canadian) oncologists state that patient out-of-pocket costs influence their treatment recommendations, but less than half the respondents always or frequently discuss the costs of treatments with their patients. The majority of oncologists favor more use of cost-effectiveness data in coverage decisions (80% US, 69% Canadian; P = .004), but fewer than half the oncologists in both countries feel well equipped to use cost-effectiveness information. Majorities of oncologists favor government price controls (57% US, 68% Canadian; P = .01), but less than half favor more cost-sharing by patients (29% US, 41% Canadian; P = .004). Oncologists in both countries prefer to have physicians and nonprofit agencies determine whether drugs provide good value.

Conclusion

Oncologists in the United States and Canada generally have similar attitudes regarding cancer drug costs, cost-effectiveness, and associated policies, despite practicing in different health care systems. The results support providing education to help oncologists in both countries use cost-effectiveness information and discuss drug costs with their patients.
International Myeloma Working Group Consensus Statement Regarding the Current Status of Allogeneic Stem-Cell Transplantation for Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Lokhorst Henk , Einsele Hermann , Vesole David , Bruno Benedetto , Miguel Jesus San , Pérez-Simon Jose A. , Kröger Nicolaus , Moreau Philippe , Gahrton Gosta , Gasparetto Cristina , Giralt Sergio , Bensinger William
Published: August 2010

Purpose

To define consensus statement regarding allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (Allo-SCT) as a treatment option for multiple myeloma (MM) on behalf of International Myeloma Working Group.

Patients and Methods

In this review, results from prospective and retrospective studies of Allo-SCT in MM are summarized.

Results

Although the introduction of reduced-intensity conditioning (RIC) has lowered the high treatment-related mortality associated with myeloablative conditioning, convincing evidence is lacking that Allo-RIC improves the survival compared with autologous stem-cell transplantation.

Conclusion

New strategies are necessary to make Allo-SCT safer and more effective for patients with MM. Until this is achieved, Allo-RIC in myeloma should only be recommended in the context of clinical trials.
Connecting muscles to tendons: tendons and musculoskeletal development in flies and vertebrates
Authors: Schweitzer Ronen , Zelzer Elazar , Volk Talila
Published: August 2010

The formation of the musculoskeletal system represents an intricate process of tissue assembly involving heterotypic inductive interactions between tendons, muscles and cartilage. An essential component of all musculoskeletal systems is the anchoring of the force-generating muscles to the solid support of the organism: the skeleton in vertebrates and the exoskeleton in invertebrates. Here, we discuss recent findings that illuminate musculoskeletal assembly in the vertebrate embryo, findings that emphasize the reciprocal interactions between the forming tendons, muscle and cartilage tissues. We also compare these events with those of the corresponding system in the Drosophila embryo, highlighting distinct and common pathways that promote efficient locomotion while preserving the form of the organism.
Teachers' Views on No Child Left Behind: Support for the Principles, Concerns about the Practices
Authors: Murnane Richard J , Papay John P
Published: August 2010

In this article, we describe teachers' views of the behavioral responses the No Child Left Behind legislation has elicited and the extent to which research reveals evidence of these responses and their effects on the distribution of student achievement. We focus on teachers' reactions to three aspects of NCLB that are particularly relevant to them: 1) the testing requirements and the rules determining “Adequate Yearly Progress” (AYP) under NCLB; 2) the sanctions imposed on schools that fail to meet AYP; and 3) the requirement that all teachers of core academic subjects be “highly qualified” in their areas of teaching assignment. Overall, we find that teachers overwhelmingly support the principles underlying the No Child Left Behind legislation, including that schools should be held accountable for educating all children well. However, teachers are concerned that the incentives created by some provisions of the law have elicited unintended responses that reduce the quality of education provided to at least some children.
Measurement Matters: Perspectives on Education Policy from an Economist and School Board Member
Authors: Lang Kevin
Published: August 2010

One of the potential strengths of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act enacted in 2002 is that the law requires the production of an enormous amount of data, particularly from tests, which, if used properly, might help us improve education. As an economist and as someone who served 13 years on the School Committee1 in Brookline Massachusetts, until May 2009, I have been appalled by the limited ability of districts to analyze these data; I have been equally appalled by the cavalier manner in which economists use test scores and related measures in their analyses. The summary data currently provided are very hard to interpret, and policymakers, who typically lack statistical sophistication, cannot easily use them to assess progress. In some domains, most notably the use of average test scores to evaluate teachers or schools, the education community is aware of the biases and has sought better measures. The economics and statistics communities have both responded to and created this demand by developing value-added measures that carry a scientific aura. However, economists have largely failed to recognize many of the problems with such measures. These problems are sufficiently important that they should preclude any automatic link between these measures and rewards or sanctions. They do, however, contain information and can be used as a catalyst for more careful evaluation of teachers and schools, and as a lever to induce principals and other administrators to act on their knowledge.
Theory, General Equilibrium, and Political Economy in Development Economics
Authors: Acemoglu Daron
Published: August 2010

I discuss the role of economic theory in empirical work in development economics with special emphasis on general equilibrium and political economy considerations. I argue that economic theory plays (should play) a central role in formulating models, estimates of which can be used for counterfactual and policy analysis. I discuss why counterfactual analysis based on microdata that ignores general equilibrium and political economy issues may lead to misleading conclusions. I illustrate the main arguments using examples from recent work in development economics and political economy.
Mobile Phones and Economic Development in Africa
Authors: Aker Jenny C , Mbiti Isaac M
Published: August 2010

Access to and use of mobile telephony in sub-Saharan Africa has increased dramatically over the past decade. Mobile telephony has brought new possibilities to the continent. Across urban–rural and rich–poor divides, mobile phones connect individuals to individuals, information, markets, and services. These effects can be particularly dramatic in rural Africa, where in many places mobile phones have represented the first modern telecommunications infrastructure of any kind. Mobile phones have greatly reduced communication costs, thereby allowing individuals and firms to send and to obtain information quickly and cheaply on a variety of economic, social, and political topics. An emerging body of research shows that the reduction in communication costs associated with mobile phones has tangible economic benefits, improving agricultural and labor market efficiency and producer and consumer welfare in specific circumstances and countries. This paper first examines the evolution of mobile phone coverage and adoption in sub-Saharan Africa over the past decade. We then explore the main channels through which mobile phones can effect economic outcomes and appraise current evidence of its potential to improve economic development. We conclude with directions for future research and outline the necessary conditions for mobile phones to promote broader economic development in Africa.
Understanding the Mechanisms of Economic Development
Authors: Deaton Angus
Published: August 2010

In this paper, I advocate the investigation, testing, and modification of mechanisms as a progressive empirical research strategy for the field of economic development (and other areas of applied economics). I discuss three lines of work that have elucidated mechanisms that are relevant for development: 1) connections between saving and growth; 2) the determinants of commodity prices, which are a key source of income for many developing countries; and 3) some unexpected puzzles that arise in considering the linkages between income and food consumption. In each case, my discussion illustrates the positivist approach to the hypotheticodeductive method. In this approach, mechanisms are proposed, key predictions derived and tested, and if falsified, the mechanisms are rejected or modified. If the predictions of a mechanism are confirmed, if they are sufficiently specific, and if they are hard to explain in other ways, we attach additional credence to the mechanism, albeit provisionally since later evidence may undermine it. Sometimes the falsifications can be repaired by changing supplementary assumptions, and sometimes they involve long steps backwards where the model is abandoned; and often there is disagreement about which is the correct response. But the end result is an accumulation of useful knowledge and understanding.
Spiritualism exposed: Scepticism, credulity and spectatorship in end-of-the-century America
Authors: Natale Simone
Published: August 2010

In recent years, the study of spiritualism and occultism has been proposed as a key to understand the political, social and cultural issues of nineteenth-century America. While the position of spiritualism's supporters has been the subject of most accounts, however, sources that critically
questioned the spiritualist claims have been usually left aside. In this article, I will rely on this extremely rich body of sources, in order to understand how the debate about spiritualism played an essential role in the shaping of sceptical perspectives in nineteenth-century America. Focusing
in particular on anti-spiritualist performances played on the stage by professional magicians and on psychological writings that questioned the phenomena of the spiritualist seances, I will argue that in both contexts the spirit medium came to be understood as a performer, and the sitters
as spectators. As a critical reading of texts such as film theory pioneer Hugo Mnsterberg's 1891 Psychology and Mysticism may suggest, the exposure of spiritualist trickery shaped a discourse on perception and sensorial delusion that anticipated in many ways later debates on cinematic spectatorship.
The Old West in Modern Splendor: Frontier folklore and the selling of Las Vegas
Authors: Jones Karen
Published: August 2010

Las Vegas is customarily seen as a postmodern city of fantasy and simulation, a place where history and geography scarcely matter. In this article I argue instead that Las Vegas might be usefully described as a frontier city. When civic boosters sought to first sell their town as a tourist paradise it was the iconography of the American West that captivated public interest. In a place that invented theming, the frontier represented the original blueprint. Even when Las Vegas moved away from a western aesthetic, it continued to subscribe to a frontier mantra. Its culture of gambling resonated with ideas of individualism, risk, freedom and adventuring, while the constant reinvention of the city pointed towards a vertical frontier to match Frederick Jackson Turner's horizontal rubric.
A kinematic formula for the total absolute curvature of intersections
Authors: Gallego E. , Reventós A. , Solanes G. , Teufel E.
Published: August 2010

Given two surfaces in three dimensional euclidean space, one fixed and the other moved by rigid motions, we consider the total absolute curvature of the intersection curves. In this paper we investigate the integral of these total absolute curvatures over all motions. Under some geometric conditions we obtain kinematic formulas, and with weaker conditions we get upper and lower bounds. Finally, as applications, we obtain upper bounds for the average number of connected components of the intersections, and we give Hadwiger conditions for a convex domain to be able to contain another one.
Pubertal Assessment Method and Baseline Characteristics in a Mixed Longitudinal Study of Girls
Authors: Biro Frank M. , Galvez Maida P. , Greenspan Louise C. , Succop Paul A. , Vangeepuram Nita , Pinney Susan M. , Teitelbaum Susan , Windham Gayle C. , Kushi Lawrence H. , Wolff Mary S.
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES:

The objective of this study was to describe the assessment methods and maturation status for a multisite cohort of girls at baseline recruitment and at ages 7 and 8 years.

METHODS:

The method for pubertal maturation staging was developed collaboratively across 3 sites. Girls at ages 6 to 8 years were recruited at 3 sites: East Harlem, New York; greater Cincinnati metropolitan area; and San Francisco Bay area, California. Baseline characteristics were obtained through interviews with caregivers and anthropometric measurements by trained examiners; breast stage 2 was defined as onset of pubertal maturation. The κ statistic was used to evaluate agreement between master trainers and examiners. Logistic regression models were used to identify factors that are associated with pubertal maturation and linear regression models to examine factors that are associated with height velocity.

RESULTS:

The baseline cohort included 1239 girls. The proportion of girls who had attained breast stage 2 varied by age, race/ethnicity, BMI percentile, and site. At 7 years, 10.4% of white, 23.4% of black non-Hispanic, and 14.9% of Hispanic girls had attained breast stage ≥2; at 8 years, 18.3%, 42.9%, and 30.9%, respectively, had attained breast stage ≥2. The prime determinant of height velocity was pubertal status.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this multisite study, there was substantial agreement regarding pubertal staging between examiners across sites. The proportion of girls who had breast development at ages 7 and 8 years, particularly among white girls, is greater than that reported from studies of girls who were born 10 to 30 years earlier.
Abusive Head Trauma: Judicial Admissions Highlight Violent and Repetitive Shaking
Authors: Adamsbaum Catherine , Grabar Sophie , Mejean Nathalie , Rey-Salmon Caroline
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE:

Confessions are uncommon in abusive head trauma (AHT) cases, and there is debate over whether shaking alone can cause the injuries characteristic of AHT. The objective of this article is to correlate legal statements by perpetrators with medical documentation to offer insights into the mechanism of injury.

METHODS:

In this retrospective observational study we examined forensic evidence from 112 cases referred for AHT over a 7-year period. We compared 29 cases in which a perpetrator confessed to violence toward the child with 83 cases in which there was no confession. Inclusion criteria were subdural hematoma (SDH) on computed tomography and perpetrator admission of a causal relationship between the violence inflicted and the child's symptoms. Groups were compared by using Student's t test for age and Fisher's exact test for gender, death, fractures, retinal hemorrhages, ecchymoses, symptoms, and SDH patterns. All medical records from birth to diagnosis, imaging studies, and written investigation reports were reviewed.

RESULTS:

All confessions came from forensic investigations. There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups for any of the variables studied. Shaking was described as extremely violent (100%) and was repeated (55%) from 2 to 30 times (mean: 10) because it stopped the infant's crying (62.5%). Impact was uncommon (24%). No correlation was found between repeated shaking and SDH densities.

CONCLUSIONS:

This unique forensic case series confirms the violence of shaking. The high frequency of habitual AHT is a strong argument for reporting suspected cases to judicial authorities and helps to explain the difficulty in dating the injuries.
Effects of Upgraded Child Restraint Law Designed to Increase Booster Seat Use in New York
Authors: Sun Kainan , Bauer Michael J. , Hardman Susan
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE:

The goal was to examine the association between the New York State (NYS) upgraded child restraint law (UCRL) implemented in 2005 and the traffic injury rate among 4- to 6-year-old children in New York State.

METHODS:

A before/after comparison study of population-based, traffic injury rates for 4- to 6-year-old children, using 0- to 3-year-old children as a comparison group, was performed. The effects of UCRL on injury rates among 0- to 3-year-old and 4- to 6-year-old motor vehicle passengers were estimated by using monthly injury count data from the NYS Department of Motor Vehicles Accident Information System.

RESULTS:

Children 4 to 6 years of age experienced an 18% reduction in traffic injury rate (adjusted rate ratio [aRR]: 0.82 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.79–0.85]) after UCRL implementation, whereas the injury rate for children 0 to 3 years of age, who were not directly affected by the UCRL, did not change appreciably (aRR: 0.95 [95% CI: 0.90–0.99]). In Poisson regression analysis, the aRR for injury for 4- to 6-year-old children was 1.06 (95% CI: 0.92–1.22]) with adjustment for monthly child restraint use rates, which reveals that the significant reduction in the injury rate among 4- to 6-year-old children was mainly attributable to the 72% increase in the child restraint use rate after UCRL implementation (from 29% before UCRL implementation to 50% after implementation).

CONCLUSIONS:

This is the first study comparing traffic injury rates for booster seat–aged children before and after implementation of the booster seat law in a single state.
Receptive Language and Educational Attainment for Sexually Abused Females
Authors: Noll Jennie G. , Shenk Chad E. , Yeh Michele T. , Ji Juye , Putnam Frank W. , Trickett Penelope K.
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVES:

The objective of this study was to test whether the experience of childhood sexual abuse is associated with long-term receptive language acquisition and educational attainment deficits for females.

METHODS:

Females with substantiated familial childhood sexual abuse (n = 84) and a nonabused comparison group (n = 102) were followed prospectively for 18 years. Receptive language ability was assessed at 6 time points across distinct stages of development, including childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood. Rates of high school graduation and total educational attainment were assessed during young adulthood.

RESULTS:

Hierarchical linear modeling revealed that receptive language did not differ between the groups at the initial assessment point in childhood; however, a significant group by time interaction was observed across development with abused females (1) acquiring receptive language at a significantly slower rate throughout development and (2) achieving a lower overall maximum level of proficiency. Significant differences in receptive language scores emerged as early as midadolescence. In addition, abused females reported significantly lower rates of high school graduation and lower overall educational attainment when compared with their nonabused peers.

CONCLUSIONS:

Exposure to childhood sexual abuse may be a significant risk factor for cognitive performance and achievement deficits for victims. These findings have particular public health relevance given the high prevalence of sexual abuse and that poor cognitive functioning and low levels of educational attainment can contribute to continued adversity throughout the life course. Early intervention may assist victims in improving cognitive functioning, altering deleterious trajectories, and promoting greater life successes.
Neonatal Cerebral Sinovenous Thrombosis: Sifting the Evidence for a Diagnostic Plan and Treatment Strategy
Authors: Yang Janet Y. K. , Chan Anthony K. C. , Callen David J. A. , Paes Bosco A.
Published: August 2010

Although cerebral sinovenous thrombosis (CSVT) is an uncommon disorder in neonates, the incumbent morbidity, mortality, and adverse neurodevelopmental sequelae highlight the importance of establishing an early diagnosis with an appropriate therapeutic plan. The clinical signs and symptoms of the condition are subtle and invariably masquerade under the umbrella of a broad spectrum of neonatal illnesses. A high index of diagnostic suspicion is essential for investigating and initiating treatment in a timely fashion before major complications ensue. Recent advances in accessible radiographic techniques with reduced radiation exposure have facilitated rapid diagnosis of thrombosis in both the superficial and deep plexuses of the cerebral venous systems. The absence of large-scale randomized trials and solid prospective smaller-sample-sized studies of neonates with CSVT has compromised our ability to develop efficacious treatment decisions. In this review of the scientific literature we offer understanding of the complex etiology of CSVT and inherent problems involved in the diagnosis and treatment of the disorder and focus on the limitations in current follow-up. An approach to neonatal CSVT is proposed on the basis of the available evidence from guidelines, registries, prospective and retrospective infant studies, and case series.
Fabrication, Characterization and Optical Studies of Cu(In1-xGax)3Se5 Bulk Compounds
Authors: Habib Dayane , El Hajj Moussa Georges , Al Asmar Roy , Ibrahim Michael , El Tahchi Mario Remond , Llinares Claude
Published: August 2010

In this paper we present the structural and optical properties of Cu(In1-xGax)3Se5 ternary and quaternary compounds crystals fabricated by horizontal Bridgman technique. The Cu(In1-xGax)3Se5 materials were characterized by Energy Dispersive Spectrometry (EDS), hot point probe method, X-ray diffraction, Photoluminescence (PL), and Optical response (Photoconductivity). The Cu(In1-xGax)3Se5 have an Ordered Vacancy Chalcopyrite-type structure with lattice constants varying as a function of the x composition.
A good stœchiometry given by the EDS characterization method is well observed in our samples and its magnitude deviation Δy is slight; so, our samples present a nearly perfect stœchiometry (Δy = 0) [1].
X-Ray diffraction patterns show the presence of many preferential orientations according to the planes (112), (220) and (312) of all the samples [2]. Also, it shows a linear shifting of peaks towards the higher magnitudes of 2θ when the x composition increases. These compounds can be of stanite structure [3] or an Ordered Vacancy Chalcopyrite structure (OVC) [4] or Ordered Defect Chalcopyrite Structure (ODC).
We observe a large shift of the main PL and optical response emission peak versus x composition. The band gap energy of Cu(In1-xGax)3Se5 compounds is found to vary from 1.23 eV to 1.85 eV as a function of x.
[1] Migual A. Contreras, Holm Wiesner, Rick Mtson, John Tuttle, Kanna Ramanathan, Rommel Noufi, Mat. Res. Soc. Symp. Proc. Vol. 426 (1996) 243-254.
[2] Ariswan, G. El Haj Moussa, M. Abdelali, F. Guastavino, C. Llinares, Solid State Communications 124 (2002) 391-396.
[3] M. Suzuki, T. Uenoyama, T. Wada, T. Hanada, Y. Nakamura, Jpn. J. Appl. Phys. 36 L1139 (1997).
[4] Kristjan Laes, Sergei Bereznev, A. Tverjanovich, E.N. Borisov, Tiit Varema, Olga Volobujeva , Andres Öpik. Thin Solid Films 517 (2009) 2286–2290.
Thermodynamic Modelling of the Pd-Te-Ru System for Nuclear Waste Glasses Application
Authors: Gossé Stephane , Schuller Sophie , Guéneau Christine
Published: August 2010

The waste management process of the French nuclear spent fuels is managed by a new vitrification conditioning step. High level radioactive borosilicate glasses are melted by induction in a cold crucible to accommodate a wide range of minor actinides and fission products. Among the fission products, platinoids precipitate in the form of (Pd-Te, Ru-Rh, Ru) metallic particles in the glass. The microstructure of these phases can affect the physicochemical properties of the melt during the vitrification process. To predict the thermodynamic properties of these alloys in the glass, a database is being developed on the Pd-Rh-Ru-Te system using the Calphad method. The binary (Pd-Te, Pd-Ru, Ru-Te) and ternary (Pd-Te-Ru) systems have been modelled. The Pd-Te-Ru ternary system built by extrapolation from the binaries enables to calculate ternary isothermal sections and thermodynamic properties of the platinoid phases between 873 K and 1573 K. Solidification paths are also calculated for Pd-Te alloys representative for those observed in the glasses. The phase composition at equilibrium and the Ru solubility limit in Pd-Te alloys are also calculated.
Deep Life and Gases in the Outokumpu Deep Borehole: Base Line Information for Nuclear Waste Disposal in Crystalline Rock
Authors: Ahonen Lasse , Kukkonen Ilmo , Toppi Taru , Nyyssonen Mari , Bomberg Malin , Nousiainen Aura , Itavaara Merja
Published: August 2010

Results of microbiological and geochemical sampling in the Outokumpu deep (2.5 km) borehole are presented. The results indicate that the discharging fractures control the observed variations in the microbial populations at different depths, which evidently reflect true variations in the microbial populations in fractures of the crystalline bedrock.
Thermoelectric Properties of SiO2/SiO2+Ag Nanolayered Multilayer Films Effected by MeV Si Ions
Authors: Budak S. , Smith Cydale , Chacha John , Pugh Marcus , Martin Hervie , Langham T. , Harrell B. , Heidary Kaveh , Johnson R. B. , Yang Ying , Muntele Claudiu , ILA D.
Published: August 2010

We have prepared 100 periodic nano-layers of SiO2/AgSiO2 with Au layer deposited on both sides as metal contacts. The deposited multi-layer films have a periodic structure consisting of alternating layers where each layer is 3.3 nm thick. The purpose of this research is to tailor the figure of merit of the thermoelectric materials generated from the nanolayers of nanocrystals of Ag with SiO2 as host and as buffer layer using a combination of co-deposition and MeV ions bombardment taking advantage of energy deposited in the MeV ion track to nucleate nanoclusters. The electrical and thermal properties of the nanolayered structures were studied before and after 5 MeV Si ions bombardment at various fluences to form nanocrystals. In addition to thermoelectric properties, some optical properties of the SiO2/SiO2+Ag multi-layer superlattice films have been studied.
Cell Membrane Modification for Rapid Display of Bi-Functional Peptides: A Novel Approach to Reduce Complement Activation
Authors: Goga Ledia , Perez-Abadia Gustavo , Pushpakumar Sathnur B , Cramer Daniel , Yan Jun , Todnem Nathan , Anderson Gary , Soni Chirag , Barker John , Maldonado Claudio
Published: August 2010

Ischemia and reperfusion of organs is an unavoidable consequence of transplantation. Inflammatory events associated with reperfusion injury are in part attributed to excessive complement activation. Systemic administration of complement inhibitors reduces reperfusion injury but leaves patients vulnerable to infection. Here, we report a novel therapeutic strategy that decorates cells with an anti-complement peptide. An analog of the C3 convertase inhibitor Compstatin (C) was synthesized with a hexahistidine (His6) tag to create C-His6. To decorate cell membranes with C-His6, fusogenic lipid vesicles (FLVs) were used to incorporate lipids with nickel (Ni2+) tethers into cell membranes, and these could then couple with C-His6. Ni2+tether levels to display C-His6were modulated by changing FLV formulation, FLV incubation time and FLV levels. SKOV-3 cells decorated with C-His6effectively reduced complement deposition in a classical complement activation assay. We conclude that our therapeutic approach appears promising for localex vivotreatment of transplanted organs to reduce complement-mediated reperfusion injury.
Advancing Universal Design
Authors: Steinfeld Edward
Published: August 2010

This paper reflects on current practices in universal design and how they can be improved to
increase adoption of the concept in mainstream design and engineering disciplines. Theory and practice
in the diffusion of innovation are used to identify lessons learned in other fields that can be applied to
universal design practice. Questions addressed include: How has the concept of universal design been
diffused? Are these methods effective? How could they be improved? What can be done to improve
adoption? How can the rehabilitation sciences, health sciences, and other disciplines help advance the
effectiveness of universal design practice?
Statistical Optimization and Neural Modeling of Amylase Production from Banana Peel Using Bacillus subtilis MTCC 441
Authors: Bhat S Mohandas , Prabhakar A. , Rao R Rama Koteswara , G.M Madhu , G. H Rao
Published: August 2010

Optimization of process parameters is of critical task in developing an industrial fermentation process for various reasons. Many techniques are available for experimental design and optimization of fermentation process parameters, i.e., fermentation medium composition and conditions, each having its own advantages and disadvantages. In this work response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD) of experiments and artificial neural network (ANN) coupled with global optimization technique (TOMLABs Direct AlogoritmgblSolve) are used for optimization of process parameters for the production of alpha amylase using banana peel as the substrate and bacterial source Bacillus subtilis MTCC 441. A 46 run central composite design was used to plan the experiment with six parameters (banana peel concentration, peptone concentration, pH, temperature, incubation time and inoculum size) with five levels. The maximum amylase activity predicted by CCD and ANN is in good agreement with the experimental values at the optimized levels. The present work shows the better optimization and prediction capacity of ANN techniques compared to RSM technique.
Do Changes In Cigarette Taxes Impact Youth Smoking? Evidence from Canadian Provinces
Authors: Sen Anindya , Ariizumi Hideki , Driambe Daciana
Published: August 2010

Recent U.S. studies report much smaller youth smoking participation elasticities compared to research based on 1980s and 1990s data. We exploit the considerable time-series variation available within and across Canadian provinces. In particular, we study the dramatic (50%) reduction in cigarette excise taxes that occurred in February 1994 in most eastern provinces in Canada as well as significant increases within most provinces between 1994 and 2006. OLS and logit estimates from a variety of surveys suggest participation elasticities from 0.1 to 0.3 for teens aged 15 to 19 years, which are lower than traditional estimates. However, children aged 10 to 14 are significantly more tax elastic than older peers, with participation elasticities between -1.5 and -2. Finally, employing different sub-samples, we find that sharp hikes and reductions generate similar cigarette tax elasticities.
Modelling the effect of hydrogen on ductile tearing resistance of steels
Authors: Falkenberg Rainer , Brocks Wolfgang , Dietzel Wolfgang , Scheider Ingo
Published: August 2010

The effect of hydrogen on the mechanical behaviour of steels is twofold: it affects the local yield strength and it accelerates material damage. On the other hand, the diffusion behaviour is influenced by the hydrostatic stress, the plastic deformation and the strain rate. This requires a coupled model of deformation, damage, hydrogen sorption and diffusion. The deformation behaviour is described by von Mises plasticity with isotropic hardening, and crack extension is simulated by a cohesive zone model. The local hydrogen concentration, which is obtained from the sorption and diffusion analysis, causes a reduction in the yield strength and the cohesive strength. Crack extension in a C(T) specimen of a ferritic steel under hydrogen charging is simulated by fully coupled finite element analyses of hydrogen kinetics and mechanical behaviour. The simulation results are compared with test results.
Thermomechanical representation of the stored energy during plastic deformation
Authors: Helm Dirk
Published: August 2010

Reactive air brazing offers economically and technologically advantageous joining of ceramics to metals. Solid oxide fuel cells and membranes for oxyfuel combustion are recent fields of application. However, it remains a problem that strong metallurgical reactions between brazes and base materials occur. These reactions were analysed by differential scanning calorimetry tests to get a better understanding. Therefore, three braze alloys (Ag8Cu, Ag8Cu0.5Ti and Ag4Cu4Ni) and five base materials (alumina, 3YSZ partially stabilised zirconia, BSCF perovskite ceramic, X1CrTiLa22 and X15CrNiSi25-20) were investigated. The reaction peaks correlate with the formation of reaction layers, which were observed in metallographic analysis of brazed specimens. The results help to explain the reaction mechanisms and allow optimised selection of filler metals and brazing temperature.
Agro-economic analysis of maize production in Bangladesh: a farm level study
Authors: Moniruzzaman M , Rahman MS , Karim MK , Alam QM
Published: August 2010

The study was carried out in four major maize growing areas namely Chuadanga, Dinajpur, Bogra and Lalmonirhat during 2006-2007 to know profitability level of maize production in Bangladesh. A total of 200 randomly selected maize growers taking 50 from each location were interviewed using pre-designed interview schedule. The average yield was found to be 8.00 t/ha. The average costs of maize production were Tk 44197, Tk 33195 and Tk 24441 per hectare on total cost, variable cost and cash cost basis respectively and gross return was Tk 69773 per hectare. The gross margin was Tk 36578/ha on total variable cost (TVC) and Tk 45332/ha on cash cost basis. The net return was observed to be Tk 25575 per hectare. Benefit cost ratios were calculated as 1.58, 2.10 and 2.85 on total cost, variable cost and cash cost basis respectively. As a result, maize cultivation was more profitable. Lack of capital and high price of TSP were the main constraints to its higher production.Key Words: Maize; production; agro-economic.DOI: 10.3329/bjar.v34i1.5748Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 34(1) : 15-24, March 2009
Phenotypic diversity of coconut germplasm conserved at different stations of BARI
Authors: Islam Md Nazirul , Hossain Md Amjad , Uddin Md Sharaf
Published: August 2010

Diversity of coconut germplasm being conserved at different Regional and Sub-stations of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI) was estimated during 2001-2002. Diversity indices (D2) ranged from 1068.96 to 171.93. Maximum diversity was observed between BARI Narikel-2 and Rahmatpur Yellow Dwarf. Genotypes of Regional Agricultural Research Station, Jessore and BARI Narikel-2 were found morphologically similar. Population under conservation at Jamalpur and lshwardi stations were found close to BAR! Narikel-l. Similar relationships among the genotypes were reflected when they were grouped into several clusters. Out of six clusters, the members of cluster II were homogenous, while that of cluster IV showed heterogenicity.Key Words: Phenotypic diversity; coconut germplasm.DOI: 10.3329/bjar.v34i1.5749Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 34(1) : 25-31, March 2009
Varietal performance of transplant aman rice under different hill densities
Authors: Sohel MAT , Siddique MAB , Asaduzzaman M , Alam MN , Karim MM
Published: August 2010

An experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh from July to December 2004 to evaluate the effect of hill spacing on the performance of BRRI dhan40 and BRRI dhan41 as Transplant aman crop. The experiment consisted of five hill spacings viz., 5cm. 10cm, 15 cm, and 25 cm where row to row spacing of 25 cm was kept constant for all treatments. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with four replications. The 25 cm x 5 cm hill spacing produced the tallest plant, highest total number of tillers/hill, bearing tillers/hill lowest number of non-hearing tillers/hill, grain yield and harvest index, while 25 cm x 5 cm hill spacing produced the highest number of sterile spikelets/panicle, straw yield and biological yield. BRRI dhan41 produced higher grain yield (4.7 t/ha) which was the contribution of higher number of grains/panicle and heavier grain weight. Lower yield (4.51 t/ha) was recorded in BRRI dhan40.Key Words: Varietal performance; T. aman rice; hill density.DOI: 10.3329/bjar.v34i1.5750Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 34(1) : 33-39, March 2009
Collection, identification and biochemical analyses of different sea weeds from Saint Martins island
Authors: Haque KM Formuzul , Chy Shamima Yesmin , Akter Shahina , Wahab Md Abdul , Nath KK
Published: August 2010

Five species of marine a1gae were collected from Saint Martin’s island, identified and biochemical analyses were carried out in BCSIR Laboratories, Chittagong. Biochemical composition were analysed to evaluate its food value and also to find out variation in composition during the period of investigation. The protein content of Sargassum coriifolium was 16.07%, whereas in Padina ltenuis that was estimated at 8.32%. The percentage of fat in Sargassuni coriitolium along with the other sea weeds was 0.5%. It was found that major of the biochemical parameters of these sea weeds were higher except the protein contents than that of Spirulina. The carbohydrate content in Dictyota dichotoma (38.94%) was lower among these sea weeds, but more than that of Spirulina. Carbohydrate contents were higher (56.29%) in Hypnea musciformis. Mineral contents as well as other parameters, especially carbohydrate contents were higher in these algae than that of Spirulina. Key Words: Collection; identification; biochemical analyses; sea weeds. DOI: 10.3329/bjar.v34i1.5754Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 34(1) : 59-65, March 2009