cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Psychometric evaluation of diagnostic criteria: application to a two-dimensional model of alcohol abuse and dependence

Psychometric investigations of diagnostic criteria can be helpful in the refinement of psychiatric instruments. This paper illustrates a methodology for investigating the measurement properties of a set of diagnostic criteria. The analyses are based on a two-dimensional factor analysis model for alcohol abuse and dependence. Based on this model, the methodology shows how cutpoints for diagnoses can be evaluated and defined, with which precision the criteria measure abuse and dependence, how well abuse without dependence can be measured, if the criteria should be weighted or not, if additional criteria are needed to improve measurement, if a smaller number of criteria could be used with almost as good results, and if diagnoses can be made with reliable results. The application of the methodology to the study of alcohol abuse and dependence in general population surveys shows important implications for diagnosis and prevalence estimation based on DSM criteria.
Awareness of skin cancer by kidney transplant patients

Abstract Background: Skin cancer is the most common malignancy occurring after kidney transplantation. Objective: Our purpose was to identify the skin problems of kidney transplant recipients, the extent of their awareness of skin cancer, and interest in skin cancer screenings. Methods: One hundred twenty-two patients were administered an oral questionnaire during regular follow-up at a renal transplant clinic. Results: The average time from transplantation was 3.1 years. Thirty-nine percent of patients reported skin problems, including warts, fungal infection, and skin cancer. Forty-one percent of patients were unable to recall specific skin cancer education, and 52% expressed an interest in skin cancer screening. Twenty-seven percent of patients had seen a dermatologist since their transplant, but only 14% were followed up regularly by a dermatologist. Conclusion: We believe the need for continuing skin cancer education and early detection and treatment of skin lesions establishes an important role for the dermatologist on the transplant recipient's health care team.(J Am Acad Dermatol 1999;40:697-701.)
The influence of event-related knowledge on verb-argument processing in aphasia.

Event-related conceptual knowledge outside the language system rapidly affects verb-argument processing in unimpaired adults (McRae and Matsuki, 2009). Some have argued that verb-argument processing is in fact reducible to the activation of such event-related knowledge. However, data favoring this conclusion have come primarily from college-aged healthy adults, for whom both linguistic and conceptual semantic processing is fast and automatic. This study examined the influence of event-related knowledge on verb-argument processing among adults with aphasia (n=8) and older unimpaired controls (n=60), in two self-paced reading studies. Participants read sentences containing a plausible verb-argument combination (Mary used a knife to chop the large carrots before dinner), a combination that violated event-related world knowledge (Mary used some bleach to clean the large carrots before dinner), or a combination that violated the verb's selectional restrictions (Mary used a pump to inflate the large carrots before dinner). The participants with aphasia naturally split into two groups: Group 1 (n=4) had conceptual-semantic impairments (evidenced by poor performance on tasks like Pyramids & Palm Trees) but reasonably intact language processing (higher Western Aphasia Battery Aphasia Quotients), while Group 2 (n=4) had intact conceptual semantics but poorer language processing. Older unimpaired controls and aphasic Group 1 showed rapid on-line disruption for sentences with selectional-restriction violations (SRVs) and event-related knowledge violations, and also showed SRV-specific penalties in sentence-final acceptability judgments (Experiment 1) and comprehension questions (Experiment 2). In contrast, Group 2 showed very few reliable differences across conditions in either on-line or off-line measures. This difference between aphasic groups suggests that verb-related information and event-related knowledge may be dissociated in aphasia. Furthermore, it suggests that intact language processing is more critical for successful verb-argument integration than intact access to event-related world knowledge. This pattern is unexpected if verb-argument processing is reducible to activation of event-related conceptual knowledge.
A comparison of hepatitis A and hepatitis B measures among vaccinated and susceptible online men who have sex with men

Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) continue to be major health concerns among men who have sex with men (MSM). The Internet both facilitates high-risk sexual encounters and provides opportunities for promoting healthy behaviours. This study compared self-reported HAV and HBV vaccination levels, based on demographics, health characteristics, hepatitis knowledge, attitudes and risk behaviours among MSM using an online survey posted from February through June 2005. Each participant (n = 968) reported whether they were vaccinated, infected or susceptible for hepatitis A and/or for hepatitis B. Men whose health-care provider recommended vaccination were 12.91 (95% confidence interval [CI] 8.11, 20.55) times more likely to be vaccinated against HAV and 17.93 (95% CI 10.82, 29.70) times more likely to be vaccinated against HBV than those at risk of infection, respectively. These data provide essential information for public health professionals to successfully promote vaccination among members of this population.
Arthroscopic resection of dorsal wrist ganglia

Arthroscopic treatment of dorsal wrist ganglia offers a viable alternative to open ganglionectomy. Although a relatively recent addition to the list of arthroscopic techniques, arthroscopic treatment of dorsal wrist ganglia has been reported to have a high rate of success, low rate of recurrence, more rapid and complete return of wrist motion, and a superior cosmetic results. A tangential arthroscopic approach to the ganglion and/or its stalk via the 1,2 and the 4,5 or 6U portals offers an alternative technique which may afford better visualization of the ganglion and added protection for the scapholunate interosseous ligament.
Incorporation of Leucine and Thymidine by Estuarine Phytoplankton: Implications for Bacterial Productivity Estimates

Leucine and thymidine incorporation were examined in size-fractionated estuarine communities and in cultures of phytoplankton known to use dissolved organic nitrogen (DON). Cultured phytoplankton species were used to establish that phytoplankton took up leucine and thymidine into protein and DNA, respectively. Subsequently, incorporation of leucine and thymidine was measured in size-fractionated populations collected from the Lafayette River, VA, a eutrophic estuary where resident populations contain bloom-forming phytoplankton known to take up DON, and the Gulf of Mexico during a bloom of the mixotrophic red tide dinoflagellate, Karenia brevis. We examined the efficacy of size fractionation for determining phytoplankton versus bacterial incorporation of leucine and thymidine under conditions employed during bacterial productivity bioassays, and antibiotics were used to distinguish between bacterial and phytoplankton incorporation in cultured and natural populations. Results suggest that cultures and natural assemblages of phytoplankton can take up both leucine and thymidine when supplied at low concentrations (10 and 12 nmol L−1, respectively) and during short incubations (15 min to 1 h). In natural populations, up to 95% of the leucine and thymidine incorporation during short bioassays was recovered in the >5.0-μm size fraction that contained ≤4.2% of the bacterial biomass.
VSAT: opening new horizons to oil and gas explorations

Whether exploring in the Empty Quarter, drilling offshore in the Gulf of Mexico, or monitoring gas pipelines or oil wells in the deserts, communications is a key element to the success of oil and gas operations. Secure, efficient communications is required between remote, isolated locations and head offices to report on work status, dispatch supplies and repairs, report on-site emergencies, transfer geophysical surveys and real-time drilling data. Drilling and exploration firms have traditionally used land-based terrestrial networks that rely on radio transmissions for voice and data communications to offshore platforms and remote deep desert drilling rigs. But these systems are inefficient and have proven inflexible with today's drilling and exploration communications demands, which include high-speed data access, telephone and video conferencing. In response, numerous oil and gas exploration entities working in deep waters and remote deep deserts have all tapped into what is an ideal solution for these needs: Very Small Aperture Terminal Systems (VSAT) for broadband access services. This led to the use of Satellite Communication Systems for a wide range of applications that were difficult to achieve in the past, such as real-time applications transmission of drilling data and seismic information. This paper provides a thorough analysis of opportunities for satellite technology solutions in support of oil and gas operations. Technologies, architecture, service, networking and application developments are discussed based upon real field experience. More specifically, the report addresses: VSAT Opportunities for the Oil and Gas Operations, Corporate Satellite Business Model Findings, Satellite Market Forecasts
3D Stacked IC layout considering bond pad density and doubling for manufacturing yield improvement

While 3D integration using through-silicon vias (TSVs) offers an opportunity to realize higher-performance subsystems than conventional SOC, the potential compound yield loss leads to worse cost control, which becomes a major hindrance to its mass production. Among many outstanding issues to be resolved, one is induced from insufficient bonding strength and quality, resulting in unreliable or even failing die stacking. In this paper, we present a bond pad doubling approach to enhance the TSV-based 3D IC manufacturing yield and reliability. It aims to be easily incorporated into the current physical design flow by leveraging mature 2D layout tools. First, to maximize the pattern density and meet the lower limit, dummy bond pads are inserted into the whitespace between dies. Next, for bond pad doubling, a greedy assignment is applied to select from the dummy at the neighborhood by incremental routing on the front side of the lower die, which connects the singles to form pairs. Finally, the connections are copied to the corresponding back metal of the upper die. Empirical results demonstrate that the proposed approach can promisingly achieve an initial success rate as high as 80% with the nearest neighbors. To further enhance the quality of results, bond padding technique is also applied to the work. The final success rate is up to 95%. The bonding yield and strength can be effectively improved.
Semiparametric Theory and Missing Data by TSIATIS, A. A.

Semiparametric Theory and Missing Data (A. A. Tsiatis) Andrea Rotnitzky Missing Data in Longitudinal Studies: Strategies for Bayesian Modeling and Sensitivity Analysis (M. J. Daniels and J. W. Hogan) Daniel F. Heitjan Bayesian Biostatistics and Diagnostic Medicine (L. D. Broemeling) Paul Gustafson Statistics in the Pharmaceutical Industry, 3rd edition (C. R. Buncher and J.-Y. Tsay, Editors) Ralph B. D'Agostino Jr. Introduction to Machine Learning and Bioinformatics (S. Mitra, S. Datta, T. Perkins, and G. Michailidis) Yulan Liang The Statistics of Gene Mapping (D. Siegmund and B. Yakir) Hongyu Zhao DNA Methylation Microarrays: Experimental Design and Statistical Analysis (S.-C. Wang and A. Petronis) Kimberly D. Siegmund Multiple Testing Procedures with Applications to Genomics (S. Dudoit and M. J. van der Laan) Ruth Heller The Statistical Analysis of Functional MRI Data (N. A. Lazar) Wesley K. Thompson Simulation and Inference for Stochastic Differential Equations with R Examples (S. M. Iacus) Dave Campbell Nonparametric Analysis of Univariate Heavy-Tailed Data: Research and Practice (N. Markovich) M. Ivette Gomes Time Series Analysis with Applications in R, 2nd edition (J. D. Cryer and K.-S. Chan) Timothy D. Johnson Brief Reports by the Editor Analysis of Variance and Covariance: How to Choose and Construct Models for the Life Sciences (C. P. Doncaster and A. J. H. Davey) Computational Statistics Handbook with MATLAB®, 2nd edition (W. L. Martinez and A. R. Martinez) Models for Probability and Statistical Inference: Theory and Applications (J. H. Stapleton) Medical Biostatistics, 2nd edition (A. Indrayan) Computational Methods in Biomedical Research (R. Khattree and D. N. Naik, Editors)
The effects of phonetic context and linguistic complexity on /s/ misarticulation in children

The present investigation was designed to examine the effects of phonetic context and linguistic complexity level on /s/ misarticulations in children. The subjects were normal children who misarticulated the /s/ phoneme interdentally in all positions of words. The stimuli were 48 sound-in-context initiative sequences which contained one /s/ phoneme embedded in a C1SC2 frame with all permutations of the phonemes /k,t,n,p/ in the C1 and C2 positions. The 48 sequences were composed of two basic linguistic complexity levels. The simple level consisted of the C1SC2 frame occurring in 16 noun phrases and in the more complex linguistic level seven-word sentences contained the C1SC2 frames in the subject-noun-phrase and object-noun-phrase positions. All presentations of complexity levels were counterbalanced over the three trials for a total of 144 /s/ productions for each child. Results demonstrated that certain phonemes were more facilitory for correct /s/ production than other phonemes. The analysis revealed no position effect. The mean percent correct /s/ productions over three trials did not differ significantly; however, the mean percent correct /s/ productions did vary significantly with linguistic complexity levels by position.
Semantic Activation and Verbal Working Memory Maintenance in Schizophrenic Thought Disorder: Insights from Electrophysiology and Lexical Amibiguity

We have examined language processing using ambiguous words (homographs like panel or toast) and rapid or slow presentation rates while recording event-related brain potentials (ERPs). Homographs allow for tracking the train of thought at points of lexical ambiguity and detecting modulation of associative threads by previous context. Rapid presentation rates stress automatic semantic activation, and slow rates stress controlled verbal working memory contextual modulation. In conjunction with reaction times and performance, ERPs allow for objective measurement of activity related to language processing from word presentation through overt behavioral response. Smaller N400 to related and unrelated items at short stimulus onset asynchronies (SOAs), the presence of a semantic bias, and large N400 to related and unrelated items at long SOAs are present in schizophrenia. We describe a model of initial semantic memory hyper-priming and subsequent decay of information in verbal working memory stores, the activation-maintenance model of schizophrenic thought disorder hypothesized to underlie the thought disorder in schizophrenia.
A rapid method for assaying sulfur using proton activation analysis

Abstract A novel application of charged particle activation analysis is presented involving short irradiations of 1 sec coupled with the measurement of very short-lived nuclides. The case studied deals with the determination of sulfur using 32 S(p, n) 32 Cl. This activation reaction features a high abundance target isotope and a product nuclide of very short half-life (300 msec) emitting high energy positrons. Counting was performed with a Cherenkov detector at the irradiation site immediately after bombardment. The experimental approach for optimizing the counting conditions is described and the activation curve for 32 S(p, n) 32 Cl is given for proton energies up to 22.5 MeV. The sensitivity based on experimental data is estimated at ≈50≃g/cm 2 . The application of this technique to petroleum products with sulfur contents ranging from 3.18% to 0.72% is discussed.
Coopetition spectrum trading — Creating endogenous spectrum holes

Dynamic spectrum access is an important way to alleviate the spectrum scarcity. Traditionally, secondary users are allowed to opportunistically operate when primary users are absent and buy idle bands from primary users. Although it improves the spectrum utility to some extents, it is not enough. In this paper, we argue that spectrum hole should be endogenous which means they should be negotiated by primary and secondary users. We proposed a novel spectrum sharing scheme with spectrum usage and management right. Further, we suggest spectrum trading as a financial option to capture the realistic usage and increase the trading flexibility. We show the superior of our model for primary users in deterministic and dynamic leasing environments.
Actions of nortetrodotoxin on frog muscle and squid axon

Abstract —Nortetrodotoxin, prepared by oxidation of the C6 end of tetrodotoxin, probably exists in solution as an equilibrium mixture of a hemilactal and a lactone form of a hydrated ketone of C6. On both frog muscle fibers under constant-current conditions and squid giant axon under voltage-clamped conditions, nortetrodotoxin selectively blocks the sodium channel. On frog muscle fibers, the solution of nortetrodotoxin used, which was several months old, was 1 13 as active as tetrodotoxin. On the squid giant axon, a freshly prepared solution of nortetrodotoxin was about 1 4 as active. These observations indicate that nortetrodotoxin possesses a substantial degree of biological activity. The suitability of nortetrodotoxin as an intermediate for synthesizing derivatives of tetrodotoxin is discussed.
Effect of alleles governing 16:0 concentration on glycerolipid composition in developing soybeans

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] oil typically contains 11% palmitic acid, but germplasm with recessive alleles at Fap gene loci exhibit from less than 4% to about 35% 16:0, Although these alleles are used to develop new cultivars, little is known about how they influence palmitic acid concentration. One theory suggests that fap alleles may mediate differences in triacylglycerol composition through genetic effects on the activity or substrate specificity of acyltransferases, such as diacylglycerol acyltransferase (EC 2.3.1.20). Based on logistic function analysis of developing seed, differences in fag allele expression are evident in the rate of palmitic acid accumulation in triacylglycerol, with peak deposition near mid-seed fill. Acetate saturation kinetics also reveal a strong positive relation between the relative amount of de novo palmitic acid synthesis and the indigenous palmitic acid concentration in triacylglycerol among fap genotypes. However, no differences appear in the kinetics of palmitoyl-CoA metabolism in developing seed of these genotypes. Therefore, the fap alleles apparently do not encode or regulate the activities of glycerolipid acyltransferase enzymes. Rather, major genetic effects on triacylglycerol composition accrue through regulation of palmitic acid production in the plastids of developing soybean cotyledons.
A Perspective on the Risk Assessment Process for Endocrine‐Disruptive Effects on Wildlife and Human Health*

The topic of EDCs presents significant issues to the risk assessment process. In Table I, we have summarized many of the issues raised above. We have a working definition of an EDC, that provides a starting point for considering what chemicals are of concern. We also have an understanding of the important biological endpoints. Significantly, there are indications that large scale impacts might be occurring in both human and wildlife populations. Should these effects be confirmed and the causative agents identified, we will face difficult risk management decisions to minimize or mitigate the risks. Our present knowledge base, however, suggests that the traditional approach to assessing both noncancer and cancer endpoints will be suitable for toxicity mediated through disruption of endocrine systems, although there is controversy here as well. The fact that many EDCs share a common MOA should, in fact, assist in developing more scientifically defensible risk assessments, given that we must often extrapolate across doses and species in the absence of a mechanistic basis for noncancer effects. As more research focuses on the key uncertainties, we should acquire a better vision of the relative risks that EDCs pose to humans and wildlife.
Hydralazine-induced antinuclear antibodies in Beagle dogs

Abstract Two groups of six Beagle dogs each were treated orally with hydralazine HCl at increasing doses from 10 to 20 mg/kg for 21 and 18 months, respectively. The second group also received 10 mg of hydralazine in Freund's complete adjuvant intradermally in the seventh month. Two groups of six dogs each served as controls. Antinuclear antibodies were detected in two dogs of the first group during the fourth month of treatment and continuously thereafter. Antibodies against native and denatured DNA and against deoxyribonucleoprotein were identified. Lymphocytes from one of these dogs showed a proliferative response to DNA and to hydralazine. No alterations were detected in serum proteins or in the hemogram. All dogs remained clinically healthy.
Component commonality in multiple-period, assemble-to-order systems

It has been clearly demonstrated in the literature that introducing a common component that replaces a number of unique components reduces the overall level of safety stock required to meet service level requirements. Recent work utilizing single-period models has investigated the cost savings (or losses) from doing so. This paper uses a very general multiple-period model, with general demand distributions, any number of products and components, and the objective of minimizing production, holding, and shortage costs. Two scenarios are considered – one that utilizes component commonality and one that does not. Prior results utilizing single-period models indicate that even if the common component is more expensive than the components it replaces, there are many circumstances under which it is still worthwhile to employ it. The surprising results from this paper indicate that this is often not the case in a multiple-period model.
Anorectic effect of dehydroepiandrosterone combined with dexfenfluramine or thionisoxetine

Free feeding rats given supplementary 1 h access per day to a palatable dessert test meal were tested for the anorectic effect of dehydroepiandrosterone alone or in combination with either the serotonin releasing agent dexfenfluramine or the norepinephrine uptake inhibitor thionisoxetine (LY 368975). Isobolographic analysis showed that the effect of dehydroepiandrosterone combined with either dexfenfluramine or thionisoxetine was within the range predicted for additivity of action.
Evaluation of the emergence method in estimating seed bank composition of prairie wetlands

Abstract Bottom samples were collected in each of two semi-permanent prairie marshes in Stutsman County, North Dakota, to determine the accuracy of the seedling emergence method in assessing seed-bank composition. Samples were divided into two equal portions and placed under moist and submerged soil conditions in the greenhouse. Emerged seedlings were identified and counted. To check the results of this technique, a portion of the field samples were sieved and seeds were isolated and identified. The seedling emergence method was generally accurate in determining wetland seed bank composition. The same five species ( Scirpus spp., Chenopodium rubrum L., Typha spp., Rumex maritimus L., and Ranunculus sceleratus L.) accounted for 92.6% and 93.4% of the total number of seedlings and seeds, respectively. The rank-order of all species was also significantly correlated between methods. Only Utricularia vulgaris L. failed to germinate well in the emergence flats (0.13% emerged seedlings versus 3.19% isolated seeds). Providing conditions in the submerged-soil treatment that are more conducive to the germination of open water species would improve the method. A modification of the flotation method used for separating seeds in recommended in wetlands with relatively large seeds.
Communities of Practice at an Academic Library: A New Approach to Mentoring at the University of Idaho

The increased focus on interdisciplinarity and collaboration in academia necessitates a re-evaluation of established mentoring practices. This article reviews the literature on traditional and peer mentoring models, explores Communities of Practice (CoP) within learning organizations, and discusses the implementation and evaluation of a CoP at the University of Idaho.
The unassisted respiratory rate-tidal volume ratio accurately predicts weaning outcome

Purpose To assess the accuracies of four commonly used parameters in predicting weaning outcome and whether breathing pattern changes during weaning. Patients and Methods We prospectively examined the predictive accuracies of four weaning parameters in mechanically ventilated patients in the medical and cardiac intensive care units of a 270-bed community teaching hospital. The spontaneous respiratory rate:tidal volume ratio (RVR i ), negative inspiratory force (NIF), and spontaneous minute volume (V E ) at the onset of weaning, and the RVR at 30 to 60 minutes of weaning (RVR 30 ) were measured. Weaning decisions were made by patients' primary physicians independent of this study. Threshold values for computations of predictive values were as follows: RVR 100 ≤ breaths per minute/L, NIF ≤ −20 cm H 2 O, V E ≤ 10 Lpm. Receiver operator curves were generated for each parameter. Results One hundred medical/cardiac intensive care unit patients were studied. Their mean age was 64.6 ± 15.8 years, mean APACHE II score of 15.8 ± 6.7 and mean duration of mechanical ventilation before the study of 4.9 ± 8.1 days. RVR i sensitivity was 89%, specificity was 41%, positive predictive value was 72%, negative predictive value was 68%, and accuracy was 71%. The RVR 30 sensitivity was 98%, specificity was 59%, positive predictive value was 83%, negative predictive value was 94%, and accuracy was 85%. Accuracies for the NIF and V E were 66% and 62%, respectively. The area under the receiver operator curve of the RVR 30 (0.92 ±0.03) was higher than the RVR, (0.74 ±0.05), NIF (0.68 ± 0.06) and V E (0.54 ± 0.06) (p Conclusions The RVR is more accurate than other commonly utilized clinical tools in predicting the outcome of weaning from mechanical ventilation. The RVR measured at 30 minutes is superior to the RVR in the first minute of weaning. The predictive accuracy and unique simplicity of the RVR justify its use in the care of mechanically ventilated patients.
Spherical Collapse and Cluster Counts in Modified Gravity Models

Modifications to the gravitational potential affect the nonlinear gravitational evolution of large scale structures in the Universe. To illustrate some generic features of such changes, we study the evolution of spherically symmetric perturbations when the modification is of Yukawa type; this is nontrivial, because we should not and do not assume that Birkhoff's theorem applies. We then show how to estimate the abundance of virialized objects in such models. Comparison with numerical simulations shows reasonable agreement: When normalized to have the same fluctuations at early times, weaker large scale gravity produces fewer massive halos. However, the opposite can be true for models that are normalized to have the same linear theory power spectrum today, so the abundance of rich clusters potentially places interesting constraints on such models. Our analysis also indicates that the formation histories and abundances of sufficiently low mass objects are unchanged from standard gravity. This explains why simulations have found that the nonlinear power spectrum at large k is unaffected by such modifications to the gravitational potential. In addition, the most massive objects in models with normalized cosmic microwave background and weaker gravity are expected to be similar to the high-redshift progenitors of the most massive objectsmore » in models with stronger gravity. Thus, the difference between the cluster and field galaxy populations is expected to be larger in models with stronger large scale gravity.« less
Schistosoma haematobium and the nephrotic syndrome

Two boys with nephrotic syndrome, membrano-proliferative glomerulo-nephritis and Schistosoma haematobium infection are described. Both showed remission of the nephrotic syndrome soon after the schistosomiasis was treated with niridazole. The significance of heavy proteinuria in schistosomiasis is discussed.
Impacts on agroecosystems of transgenic insect and herbicide resistance in cotton.

Cotton is the world’s major source of natural fiber. Enhanced production will require both a full understanding of the genomic potential of cotton species, and deployment of transgenes for specific traits. Genomic approaches documented elsewhere in this volume will allow identification of key genes in the process of capturing and converting photosynthetic energy to usable fiber. Genomic approaches also provide tools to target specific genes for altered regulation. As a first step to understanding the complex functions of a plant, introduction of transgenes can be highly effective and informative. Cotton, which requires intensive management for high yield production, is one of the few crops for which insect and herbicide resistance traits have been commercialized. Benefits to producers in highly mechanized agricultural systems have been substantial and adoption is widespread. Advantages in smaller scale production systems are much less clear. Because there are huge expenditures required to get transgenic plants into widespread commercial production, it is instructive to carefully examine the impacts of the currently available examples. Specific issues may differ but economic and sociopolitical factors will require similar consideration, whatever the trait being modified. Concerns have been expressed that there may be direct impacts of transgenes, such as insect or herbicide resistance genes, on non-target organisms, damage to insect predators, or risks of gene flow to wild species. Examples from around the world, in many different climates and agricultural systems have been reviewed. No scientifically solid evidence has been forthcoming to indicate that the gene constructs or cultivars per se have a negative impact on agroecosystems, including non-target arthropods, predators or wild cotton species. Heavy herbicide use associated with herbicide-resistant cotton may lead to increased populations of resistant weeds, but no-till production systems based on herbicide use may provide large benefits. Other interesting traits including disease resistance have been introduced to cotton but none have yet been commercialized or extensively tested at a field scale.
A New Methodology for Estimating the Unpredictable Component of Seasonal Atmospheric Variability

Predictability limits for seasonal atmospheric climate variability depend on the fraction of variability that is due to factors external to the atmosphere (e.g., boundary conditions) and the fraction that is internal. From the analysis of observed data alone, however, separation of the total seasonal atmospheric variance into its external and internal components remains a difficult and controversial issue. In this paper a simple procedure for estimating atmospheric internal variability is outlined. This procedure is based on the expected value of the mean square error between the observed and the general circulation model simulated (or predicted) seasonal mean anomaly. The end result is a spatial map for the estimate of the observed seasonal atmospheric internal (or unpredictable) variability. As improved general circulation models become available, mean square error estimated from the new generation of general circulation models can be easily included in the procedure proposed herein, bringing the estimate for the internal variability closer to its true estimate.
Molecular basis of the Kell (K1) phenotype.

K1 (K, Kell) is a strong immunogen; its antibodies can cause severe reactions if incompatible blood is transfused and may cause hemolytic disease of the newborn in sensitized mothers. K1 is a member of the Kell blood group system, which is complex, containing over 20 different antigens. Some of the antigens are organized in allelic pairs of high and low prevalence whereas others are independently expressed. K1, which is present in 9% of the population, is antithetical to the high- prevalence K2 (k) antigen. We have determined the molecular basis of the K1/K2 polymorphism by sequencing the 19 exons of the Kell gene (KEL) of a K1/K1 person. Polymerase chain reaction was performed on genomic DNA isolated from peripheral blood and the amplified products were either directly sequenced or subcloned and sequenced. Comparisons of K1/K1 and K2/K2 DNA showed a C to T base substitution in exon 6 that predicts a threonine to methionine change at amino acid residue 193. This amino acid substitution occurs at a consensus N-glycosylation site (Asn. X. Thr) and probably prevents N-glycosylation, leading to a change in phenotype. The C to T substitution creates a Bsm I restriction enzyme site, which was tested in 42 different samples to confirm that this base change identifies the K1/K1 genotype. This test differentiates genotypes, K1/K1, K2/K2, and the K1/K2 heterozygote and should prove useful in the prenatal diagnosis of K1-related hemolytic disease of the newborn.
Self-Censorship In The Pakistani Print Media

Though there is no formally enforced press censorship in Pakistan, journalists have been indirectly forced to curtail their reporting due to various external reasons. This article examines the print media's potential role in Pakistan and identifies the direct external causes of self-censorship such as unofficial government controls, the oligopolistic newspaper ownership structure, the legal system and the lack of security for journalists. In addition, the paper looks at specific structural characteristics of the Pakistani print media that have created an environment for self-censorship to thrive, namely the reach and accessibility of the print media and the isolation of the Pakistani journalist from the international community. Finally, the paper puts forth three strategic recommendations to address the problem of self-censorship, first, legal reform to create an environment conducive to free journalism; second, ownership reform to increase plurality and create free market competition in the newspaper ind...
Intentions to Use the Female Condom Among African American Adults1

The present study tested whether the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and self-efficacy for female condom use predicted intentions to use the female condom among African American adults. Participants were 137 men and women 18 to 35 years of age who were recruited from a community-based organization. Results indicate that (a) the TRA model has predictive utility for womens but not for mens intentions to use the female condom with both main and casual sex partners and (b) the TRA model was a better predictor of intentions to use the female condom with main than with casual partners. Implications for female condom use promotion are discussed. (authors)
Genome-wide Analysis Identifies Interleukin-10 mRNA as Target of Tristetraprolin

Tristetraprolin (TTP) is an RNA-binding protein required for the rapid degradation of mRNAs containing AU-rich elements. Targets regulated by TTP include the mRNAs encoding tumor necrosis factor-α, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interleukin-2 (IL-2), and immediate early response 3. To identify novel target mRNAs of TTP in macrophages, we used a genome-wide approach that combines RNA immunoprecipitation and microarray analysis. A list was compiled of 137 mRNAs that are associated with TTP with an estimated accuracy on the order of 90%. Sequence analysis revealed a highly significant enrichment of AU-rich element motifs, with AUUUA pentamers present in 96% and UUAUUUAUU nonamers present in 44% of TTP-associated mRNAs. We further show that IL-10 is a novel target regulated by TTP. IL-10 mRNA levels were found to be elevated because of a reduced decay rate in primary macrophages from TTP-/- mice. Our study demonstrates the importance of experimental approaches for identifying targets of RNA-binding proteins.
Autism Intervention Research Programs of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau

* Abbreviations: ASD — : autism spectrum disorder CAAI — : Combating Autism Act Initiative DBP — : Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics HRSA — : Health Resources and Services Administration MCH — : Maternal and Child Health MCHB — : Maternal and Child Health Bureau SDAS — : Secondary Data Analysis Studies Over the past 2 decades, autism has emerged as a major public health concern in the United States.1 Since 1995, the US Department of Health and Human Services has sharpened its focus on autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) through development of new initiatives that are aimed at increasing our understanding of autism, its causes, and potential treatments.2 However, families and young children with ASD and other related developmental disabilities continue to face many challenges in health care and educational service system access, ensuring optimal development through early intervention, a successful transition into adulthood, and fostering family well-being and positive family functioning in diverse racial and ethnic populations. To further address autism as a critical and growing public health concern, Congress enacted the Combating Autism Act of 20063 in December 2006, which authorized programs to combat autism through research, screening, intervention, and education. As stated in this legislation, the Secretary of Health and Human Services shall “establish and evaluate activities to: 1. provide information and education on autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities to increase public awareness of developmental milestones; 2. promote research into the development and validation of reliable screening tools for autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities and disseminate information regarding those screening tools; 3. promote early screening of individuals at higher risk for autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities as early as practicable, given evidence-based screening techniques and interventions; 4. increase the number of individuals who are able to confirm or rule out a diagnosis of autism spectrum … Address correspondence to Hae Young Park, MPH, Health Resources and Services Administration, Maternal and Child Health Bureau, 5600 Fishers Lane, 18A-55, Rockville, MD 20857. E-mail: hpark{at}hrsa.gov
Toward Component Non-functional Interoperability Analysis: A UML-based and Goal-Oriented Approach

Component-based development (CBD) has a great potential of reducing development cost and time by integrating existing software components. But it also faces many challenges one of which is ensuring interoperability of the components that may have been developed with different functional and non-functional goals. The software community has traditionally focused more on the functional aspect of the interoperability such as syntactic and semantic compatibility. However, incompatibility from the non-functional aspect could lead to poor quality such as insufficient security or even inoperable system. This paper presents a preliminary framework for analyzing non-functional requirements (NFRs) defined for the component required and provided interfaces. The components are considered non-functionally interoperable when they agree on the definition and implementation techniques used to achieve the NFRs. Any detected mismatches can be resolved using a combination of the three presented tactics, including replacing the server component, negotiating for more attainable NFRs, or using an adapter component to bridge the non-functional differences. A running example based on a simplified Web-based conference management system is used to illustrate the application of this framework
Classroom Instruction: Background, Assumptions, and Challenges

In this article, the authors focus on issues of instruction in classrooms. Initially, a brief definitional and historic section is presented. This is followed by a discussion of four assumptions ab...
Structure of inclusion complexes of cyclomaltoheptaose (cycloheptaamylose): Crystal structure of the benzocaine adduct

Abstract Cyclomaltoheptaose (cycloheptaamylose) has been crystallized with benzocaine (ethyl p-amino-benzoate) as the guest molecule. The complex crystallizes in space group C2, with unit-cell dimensions a 1.8746(9), b = 2.4528(4), and c = 1.5658(5) nm, and β = 110.21 °(3). The crystal structure was solved by using the phases from a previously determined, isomorphous crystal-structure. The cyclomaltoheptaose exists as a dimer in the crystal by means of extensive hydrogen-bonding across the secondary-hydroxyl ends of two cyclomaltoheptaose molecules. A continuous channel throughout the crystal is achieved by stacking of these dimer units. The two halves of the cyclomaltoheptaose dimer are related by the crystallographic, two-fold axis, but the benzocaine guests in each half do not follow this symmetry, and are statistically disordered. The ester groups are at the secondary-hydroxyl end of the cyclomaltoheptaose, and the guests are disordered (to avoid overcrowding around the crystallographic, two-fold axis). A lone, water molecule is trapped in the cavity at the secondary hydroxyl interface, and forms a link between the ester groups of the two guest molecules by hydrogen bonding to the carbonyl oxygen atom of both. The p-amino group of each guest in the dimer pair has a different, and independent, hydrogen-bonding scheme. One amino group hydrogen-bonds directly to a primary hydroxyl group of the cyclomaltoheptaose (in the gauche-trans position), whereas the other is hydrogen-bonded via a water molecule in the cavity at the primary-hydroxyl end to a different primary hydroxyl group.
Determinants of CEO Pay in Service Industry Firms

This article proposes a model comprising company- and executive-specific variables as determinants of compensation for chief executive officers and reports an empirical testing of the model based on a sample of 170 service industry firms. An empirical test of the model was also conducted for banking and utility firms, the two major subgroups of the sample. An attempt was made to identify interindustry variations in the determinants of compensation for chief executive officers through separate investigation into banking and utility firms. Theoretical and practical implications of the research findings are discussed.
Structural Modeling and Optimization of the Joined Wing of a High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) Aircraft

Recent research trends have indicated an interest in High-Altitude, Long-Endurance (HALE) aircraft as a low-cost alternative to certain space missions. These missions require a lightweight vehicle operating at low speeds, high lift and minimum drag. These conditions necessitate high-aspect ratio wings. Due to its large span and light weight, the wing structure is very flexible. The wings undergo significant deflections as a result of the fluid loads acting on them, and require the consideration of aeroelastic effects. To reduce the structural deformation and increase the total lift, a sensorcraft model with a joined-wing configuration is employed. The results of the simulation of the complex, three-dimensional flow past the joined wing of a HALE aircraft are used as an input for the structural analysis. In the existing studies to date, only simplified structural models have been examined. In the present work, a semi-monocoque structural model is developed. All stringers, skin panels, ribs and spars are represented by appropriate elements in a finite-element model. Linear and nonlinear static analyses under the aerodynamic load are performed. The stress distribution in the wing is explored. Starting with a structural model with uniform mass distribution, a design optimization is performed. The optimized model has a maximum stress 42% lower and a maximum deflection 26% lower than obtained for the initial model. Linear and nonlinear buckling analyses are performed as well. The nonlinear analysis yields a critical buckling load 18% lower than that predicted by linear analysis. This paper will discuss the details of the structural modeling as well as the results obtained before and after optimizing the model.
Pesticide exposure and risk of breast cancer: a nested case–control study of residentially stable women living on Long Island

We conducted a nested case-control study of women in the New York State cohort who lived on Long Island. We estimated the historical environmental exposure to pesticides in 105 women diagnosed with breast cancer between 1980 and 1992 and 210 age and race-matched controls in this cohort of long-term residentially stable women who completed a short mailed questionnaire in 1980. Prior agricultural land use was assessed from aerial photographs taken in 1947 and 1950. Pesticides detected in drinking water were estimated from measures taken between 1977 and 1992. Geographic information system software was used to calculate the distance between residences and hazardous waste sites (HWS) containing pesticides. We found an increased breast cancer risk for women residing within 1 mile of HWS containing organochlorine pesticides (odds ratio [OR]=2.8; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.1-7.1), after adjusting for other risk factors. A significant interaction was shown for women residing on land that was previously used for agriculture and women who were either nulliparous or had an older age at first birth (> or =26 yr old), compared to women who did not live on previously agricultural land and with a younger age (<26 yr old) at first birth (OR=6.4; 95%CI, 2.2-18.2). Study power was limited and confidence intervals were wide. Our findings suggest that exposure to pesticides in the environment needs to be more comprehensively investigated in relation to breast cancer risk.
Brief Report: Fast Mapping Predicts Differences in Concurrent and Later Language Abilities among Children with ASD.

This study investigated whether the ability to learn word-object associations following minimal exposure (i.e., fast mapping) was associated with concurrent and later language abilities in children with ASD. Children who were poor learners at age 3½ had significantly lower receptive language abilities than children who successfully learned the new words, both concurrently (n = 59) and 2 years later (n = 53), lending ecological validity to experimental fast-mapping tasks. Fast mapping comprehension at age 3½ was associated with better language outcomes regardless of whether children had produced the new words. These findings highlight the importance of investigating processes of language learning in children with ASD. Understanding these processes will enable the development of maximally effective strategies for supporting word learning.