cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Is the Role of the School Psychologist in Early Childhood Truly Expanding? A National Survey Examining School Psychologists' Practices and Training Experiences

ABSTRACTHistorically, the role of school psychologists in early childhood settings has been limited to the identification and evaluation of children who may be in need of special education services under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. It has been suggested that the role should reflect a more proactive model; specifically, it should continue to expand to include involvement in school readiness and early intervention for all students. The purpose of this study was to examine the present role of school psychologists in early childhood settings and investigate the graduate-level training provided to school psychology graduate students. Results of the survey found that a significant percentage of school psychologist practitioners continue to spend a substantial portion of their professional time completing special education evaluations. Furthermore, respondents reported minimal to moderate graduate training in the area of early childhood populations. Implications for school psycholo...
The Free Surface of Rotating 4 He Thick Films

Surface profiles of He II with an initial thickness of 6–50 μm were measured for a rotating and stationary cylindrical container. Equilibrium porfiles are consistent with = vnθ = ωr, vnr > 0 and < 0. Metastable depressions created after sudden spin-up appear to be a superfluid vortex with a circulation of several hundred h/m.
Radiation Response of Hydrated Urea Evaluated Using 14N Nuclear Quadrupole Resonance

In this paper Nitrogen-14 nuclear quadrupole resonance is utilized to detect radiation-induced changes in urea over the 0- to 300-Gy dose range. The spin-spin relaxation time exhibits a consistent change as a function of delivered dose in hydrated urea under exposure to [sup 60]Co gamma radiation. No changes to the spin-spin relaxation time are observed in urea samples that were not hydrated. The radiation-induced changes are attributed to indirect radiation interactions with the water surrounding the urea molecules and are explained by the formation of subtle changes in the electron bonding configurations surrounding the [sup 14]N nuclei, not major structural rearrangements. These subtle changes may provide additional insight into the effects of ionizing radiation on biological systems.
Learning by design

In the context of interactive systems, design problem solving is an integrative and reflective activity that invites interdisciplinary thinking. An effective design result depends on careful analysis and synthesis across the multiple facets of an information systems problem, including the information itself, the people who use or depend on it, and the technologies that support their information access, manipulation and understanding. In this essay I argue that learning by design is an effective strategy for introducing students to the multi-disciplinary field of information sciences and technology.
Bifurcation Analysis of DC Electric Power Systems for Deep Space Exploration Spacecraft

Electric power system reliability is needed to guarantee the success of space exploration missions for manned and unmanned spacecraft. Understanding the behavior of these electric systems is essential to determine the safe operating conditions, and subsequently, prevent undesired conditions that may cause system-wide blackouts, leaving the spacecraft in a vulnerable position. This study uses bifurcation analysis to determine the behavior of DC spacecraft electric power systems to identify major causes of voltage instability.
Distributed output-feedback model predictive control for multi-agent consensus

Abstract We propose a distributed output-feedback model predictive control approach for achieving consensus among multiple agents. Each agent computes a distributed control action based on an output-feedback measurement of a local neighborhood tracking error and communicates information only to its neighbors, according to a communication network modeled as a directed graph. Each agent computes its distributed control action by solving a local min–max optimization problem that simultaneously computes a local state estimate and control input under worst-case assumptions on unmeasured input disturbances and measurement noise. Under easily verified controllability and observability assumptions, this distributed output-feedback model predictive control approach provides an upper bound on the group consensus error, thereby ensuring practical consensus in the presence of unmeasured disturbances and noise. A numerical example with four agents connected in a directed graph is given to illustrate the results.
Adrenal-gonad interactions in cattle. Corpus luteum function in intact and adrenalectomized heifers.

To determine the effect of the hyperadrenal state on corpus luteum (CL) function, we treated intact and adrenalectomized (ADRX) heifers with adrenocorticotropin (ACTH) and hydrocortisone. ACTH treatment of intact heifers by infusion of 1 mg alpha 1-24 ACTH/24 hr from day 2 to 25 of an estrous cycle increased progesterone concentrations in plasma to 4 +/- .52 ng/ml plasma on days 3 to 4. Thereafter, progesterone concentrations declined, indicating severe suppression of CL function as compared to that of control heifers. Similar infusions of ACTH to ADRX heifers did not alter CL function as reflected by progesterone concentrations in jugular plasma. Infusion of ADRX animals with hydrocortisone succinate (100 mg/24 hr) decreased progesterone in plasma during the cycle, with maximum values averaging less than 4 ng/ml, compared to concentrations of 6 to 7 ng/ml in control ADRX heifers. Chronic administration of ACTH or hydrocortisone to heifers caused a decreased progesterone secretion during the luteal phase of the estrous cycle. On the basis of these results, we suggest that stress, as indicated by the hyperadrenal state, could inhibit progesterone secretion by the corpus luteum.
More Than Lawyers: The Legal and Ethical Implications of Counseling Clients on Nonlegal Considerations

Lawyers must often be more than lawyers. As they have for centuries, lawyers face clients’ family problems, business problems, and life problems, which lead lawyers at times to go beyond the legal issues and counsel clients on the moral, economic, and other nonlegal factors affecting their situations. Furthermore, the practice of law today is becoming more competitive, complex, and intertwined with other substantive disciplines, causing lawyers to be increasingly called upon to advise clients on issues that would not be deemed purely legal by traditional standards. The ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct contemplate these considerations to some extent, and the literature has extensively argued that attorneys should engage in nonlegal, particularly moral, counseling. Yet what remains unresolved is an understanding of what parameters the legal and professional responsibility standards place on such counseling. Even if one agrees that nonlegal counseling should be encouraged, it remains unsettled whether the standards actually require attorneys to do so in certain cases and whether attorneys’ fiduciary obligations to their clients may be affected by such counseling. This Article addresses these legal and ethical issues regarding attorneys’ ability to engage in nonlegal counseling by analyzing the primary professional standard that expressly authorizes such conduct, Model Rule 2.1, concluding that, although attorneys should engage in such counseling, they must be especially mindful of several specific professional standards to ensure that their nonlegal counseling does not conflict with the other professional duties attorneys owe to clients.
Chapter 10 – The Clinical Performance of UHMWPE in the Spine

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the clinical wear performance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) in spine. UHMWPE is the polymeric bearing material of choice in artificial total disc replacements (TDR). There are currently two designs, namely, SB Charite™ III and PRODISC, of total artificial discs that include an UHMWPE component as a bearing surface for their implant. The SB Charite™ artificial disc is made of three components, two of which are metal endplates that attach to the upper and lower vertebral body endplates by means of anchor teeth, and an UHMWPE sliding core that moves in between these two metal endplates. On the other hand, PRODISC's modular design allows the surgeon to customize it to the patient's anatomy. It comes in two sizes (M and L), with each size having two available angulations of the superior plate component (6 degrees and 11 degrees), and three different heights of the polyethylene inlay (10 mm, 12 mm, and 14 mm). However, the ultimate clinical performance of UHMWPE in the spine in total artificial discs can be comprehensively evaluated only after long-term follow-up of patients is made available. The examination of retrieved implants, when available, will also provide the scientific community with a better understanding of the performance of UHMWPE in vivo in the spine anatomical setting.
Urology Residency Applications in The COVID-19 Era.

Abstract Objective To evaluate urology applicants’ opinions about the interview process during the COVID-19 pandemic. Material and Methods An anonymous survey was emailed to applicants to our institution from the 2019 and 2020 urology matches prior to issuance of professional organization guidelines. The survey inquired about attitudes toward the residency interview process in the era of COVID-19 and which interview elements could be replicated virtually. Descriptive statistics were utilized. Results Eighty percent of urology applicants from the 2019 and 2020 matches received our survey. One hundred fifty-six people (24% of recipients) responded. Thirty-four percent preferred virtual interviews, while 41% in-person interviews at each program, and 25% regional/centralized interviews. Sixty-four percent said that interactions with residents (pre/postinterview social and informal time) were the most important interview day component and 81% said it could not be replicated virtually. Conversely, 81% believed faculty interviews could be replicated virtually. Eighty-seven percent believed that city visits could not be accomplished virtually. A plurality felt that away rotations and second-looks should be allowed (both 45%). Comment Applicants feel that faculty interviews can be replicated virtually, while resident interactions cannot. Steps such as a low-stakes second looks after programs submit rank lists (potentially extending this window) and small virtual encounters with residents could ease applicant concerns. Conclusion Applicants have concerns about changes to the match processes. Programs can adopt virtual best practices to address these issues.
General and Intensive Care Outcomes for Hospitalized Patients With Solid Organ Transplants With COVID-19.

Purpose:COVID-19 has been associated with a dysregulated inflammatory response. Patients who have received solid-organ transplants are more susceptible to infections in general due to the use of im...
Identification of universal and cell type specific p53 DNA binding

Abstract The tumor suppressor p53 is a major regulator of the DNA damage response and has been suggested to selectively bind and activate cell type specific gene expression programs, however recent studies and meta-analyses of genomic data propose largely uniform, and condition independent, p53 binding. To systematically assess the cell type specificity of p53, we measured its association with DNA in 12 p53 wild-type cell lines, from a range of epithelial linages, in response to ionizing radiation. We found that the majority of bound sites were occupied across all cell lines, however we also identified a subset of binding sites that were specific to one or a few cell lines. Unlike the shared p53-bound genome, which was not dependent on chromatin accessibility, the association of p53 with these atypical binding sites was well explained by chromatin accessibility and could be modulated by forcing cell state changes such as the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. These results position p53 as having both universal and cell type specific regulatory programs that have different regulators and dependence on chromatin state.
A systematic scoping study exploring opioid use across a variety of disability conditions.

Abstract Background Opioid use experiences among people with disability (PWD) as a group has not been clearly articulated in the current literature, despite links between pain and measures of disability. Objective To conduct a systematic search and scoping study examining the characteristics of current literature focused on opioid use among PWD. Methods Four databases were queried (i.e., Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, and CINAHL) for peer-reviewed, empirical, English-language, journal articles focused on long-term opioid use among PWD. Collected data points included: disability details (specific condition, onset of disability), opioid details (category of opioid use, and specified substance), study details, and design. Results A total of 196 articles were included, with 83.7% published since 2000 largely from the US. The majority of articles (70.4%) focused on the use of opioids as medical treatment, with fewer articles focusing on recreational opioid use or substance use disorders. The majority of included sources (73%) focused on opioid use in acquired conditions; neuropathic pain (21.9%) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (20.4%) were the most commonly studied. Differences were observed in the distribution of disability conditions across category of opioid use and study design classification; 73.5% were considered observational in design. Conclusions The varied representation of disability conditions, and differences across opioid use category and study design classification point to a complicated relationship between opioid use and disability. The present research portfolio would benefit from research matching informational needs of a specific disability area or opioid use category to provide the evidence necessary to advance current knowledge and promote inclusion in national agendas.
Examination of Early CNS Symptoms and Severe Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Multicenter Observational Case Series

To determine if early CNS symptoms are associated with severe coronavirus disease 2019. DESIGN A retrospective, observational case series study design. SETTING Electronic health records were reviewed for patients from five healthcare systems across the state of Florida, United States. Patients A clinical sample (n = 36,615) of patients with confirmed diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 were included. Twelve percent (n = 4,417) of the sample developed severe coronavirus disease 2019, defined as requiring critical care, mechanical ventilation, or diagnosis of acute respiratory distress syndrome, sepsis, or severe inflammatory response syndrome. INTERVENTIONS None. Measurement and Main Results We reviewed the electronic health record for diagnosis of early CNS symptoms (encephalopathy, headache, ageusia, anosmia, dizziness, acute cerebrovascular disease) between 14 days before the diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 and 8 days after the diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019, or before the date of severe coronavirus disease 2019 diagnosis, whichever came first. Hierarchal logistic regression models were used to examine the odds of developing severe coronavirus disease 2019 based on diagnosis of early CNS symptoms. Severe coronavirus disease 2019 patients were significantly more likely to have early CNS symptoms (32.8%) compared with nonsevere patients (6.11%; χ2[1] = 3,266.08, p < 0.0001, φ = 0.29). After adjusting for demographic variables and pertinent comorbidities, early CNS symptoms were significantly associated with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (odds ratio = 3.21). Diagnosis of encephalopathy (odds ratio = 14.38) was associated with greater odds of severe coronavirus disease 2019; whereas diagnosis of anosmia (odds ratio = 0.45), ageusia (odds ratio = 0.46), and headache (odds ratio = 0.63) were associated with reduced odds of severe coronavirus disease 2019. CONCLUSIONS Early CNS symptoms, and specifically encephalopathy, are differentially associated with risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 and may serve as an early marker for differences in clinical disease course. Therapies for early coronavirus disease 2019 are scarce, and further identification of subgroups at risk may help to advance understanding of the severity trajectories and enable focused treatment.
Sequencing mixed-model assembly lines with risk-averse stochastic mixed-integer programming

Sequencing decisions in mixed-model assembly lines are complicated by various uncertainty factors. This paper addresses a real-life uncertainty factor identified in a manufacturer of large vehicles...
Changes in organic carbon source and storage with sea level rise-induced transgression in a Chesapeake Bay marsh

Abstract Organic matter (OM) accumulation in marsh soils affects marsh survival under rapid sea-level rise (SLR). This work describes the changing organic geochemistry of a salt marsh located in the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge on the eastern shore of Chesapeake Bay that has transgressed inland with SLR over the past 35–75 years. Marsh soils and vegetation were sampled along an elevation gradient from the intertidal zone to the adjacent forest, representing a space-for-time substitution of the process of marsh transgression. Stable carbon isotope analysis of bulk OM gives evidence for a transition from C3 upland-sourced OM to C4-dominated marsh vegetation over time. The vegetative source of the OM changes along a marsh-upland mixing line from herbaceous angiosperm-sourced lignin in the lower elevation marsh to a woody gymnosperm signature at the upper border of the marsh. The results of stable isotope and lignin analyses illustrate that landward encroachment of marsh grasses results in deposition of herbaceous tissues exhibiting relatively little decay. This presents a possible mechanism for OM stabilization as marshes migrate inland. Regional index terms USA, Maryland, Chesapeake Bay, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge.
The Early STEPS Pilot Study: The Impact of a Brief Consultation Session on Self-reported Parenting Satisfaction

INTRODUCTION Evidence-based parenting interventions can augment parental knowledge and skills to reduce parental stress and increase self-efficacy, leading to improved developmental outcomes for children. However, parenting interventions are often multi-session and require considerable time commitments from parents and primary care physicians. We conducted a pilot study to evaluate the effect of a brief consultation session on self-reported parental satisfaction and to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of incorporating occupational therapists (OTs) into a low-income urban pediatric primary care setting to conduct developmental screenings. METHODS OTs conducted one 45-min consultation on positive parenting practices and promoting child development with parents in a pediatric primary care practice. A one group pretest-posttest design with 6-month follow-up was utilized. Participants included 55 families with 60 children, ages 2 to 65 months 30 days. The primary outcome measure was the change in Parenting Sense of Competence Scale (PSOC) scores from baseline to 6-month follow-up. Additional outcomes were screening results, referral numbers, and follow through in obtaining early intervention services. RESULTS The paired difference between PSOC scores at baseline and 6 months indicated a significant increase in parenting satisfaction (p < 0.0001). Of 41 children referred, 26 were eligible and obtained services, 12 were lost to follow-up, and 3 did not qualify for services. DISCUSSION Our preliminary findings suggest one consultation session on positive parenting practices and promoting child development may increase parenting satisfaction. Moreover, OTs can reduce the burden on primary care physicians by providing screenings, consultations, and follow-up. Further research is warranted to evaluate these findings.
Pyoderma gangraenosum – wenn Inflammation ulzeriert

Das Pyoderma gangraenosum (PG) ist eine autoinflammatorische Erkrankung, die zur Ulzeration der Haut fuhrt. Sie sollte in der Differenzialdiagnostik von Ulkuserkrankungen berucksichtigt werden. Welche Charakteristika grenzen das PG von anderen ulzerativen Hauterkrankungen ab? Es wurde eine Literaturrecherche durchgefuhrt und die S1-Leitlinie Pyoderma gangraenosum herangezogen. Klinische Manifestationen und Verlaufe werden anhand von Fallbeispielen dargestellt. Das PG ist eine seltene, aber schwerwiegende primar sterile nekrotisierende Hauterkrankung, die im Rahmen von Syndromen und assoziiert mit Komorbiditaten aus dem autoinflammatorischen Spektrum auftreten kann. Die Diagnose wird in der Regel klinisch gestellt. Nicht selten ist das PG eine Ausschlussdiagnose. 70 % der Ulzera treten an den Unterschenkeln auf. Zu den Therapiemoglichkeiten zahlen Immunsuppressiva und Biologika. Das PG ist eine wichtige Differenzialdiagnose von Unterschenkelulzera und sollte in Betracht gezogen werden, wenn entsprechende Komorbiditaten vorliegen und andere Ursachen ausgeschlossen wurden.
Refocusing the Western

Edward Countryman and Evonne von Heussen-Countryman _Shane_ London, British Film Institute, 1999 ISBN 0-85170-732-7 78 pp.
Eligibility, utilization, and costs in a California Medicaid lupus population.

Objective To investigate whether ethnicity was associated with differences in Medicaid eligibility, health care utilization, and direct medical costs in a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) population. Methods A retrospective analysis of California Medicaid claims data was conducted on patients with SLE. Patient eligibility and month-by-month utilization and costs were computed and compared across ethnic groups. Descriptive statistics are presented. A mixed regression model on patient-level data was used to verify the trends of the aggregate data, controlling for covariates. A survival regression model on time to ineligibility was used to show eligibility patterns adjusted for covariates. Results Hispanic patients were less likely to have a lengthy eligibility period as compared with other cohorts (∼50% versus 70% eligible at month 36, respectively). As treatment progressed, Hispanics generated lower total costs than other cohorts. Results for inpatient frequency, prescription costs, and outpatient/physician/supply (Part B) costs followed similar patterns. Mixed regression model findings revealed that when adjusted for age, sex, and aid program, total costs for Hispanic patients decreased as the length of care increased, in contrast to other ethnic groups. The interaction between ethnicity and treatment progression measured by quarter was significant (P < 0.0001), but ethnicity as a main effect was not (P = 0.091). This suggests that differences in total costs are small initially, but as the followup period extends, Hispanic patients experience lower total costs as compared with other ethnic groups. Conclusion These California Medicaid program data reinforce the importance of investigating treatment differences in ethnic groups with SLE.
Surgical Treatments for Scapholunate Advanced Collapse Wrist: Kinematics and Functional Performance

Purpose The purpose of this investigation was to compare kinematic motion and functional performance during 2 tasks in patients following 4-corner fusion (4CF) or proximal row carpectomy (PRC) and to compare these data with those from healthy asymptomatic individuals. Methods Twenty men (10 4CFs and 10 PRCs, ages, 43–82 y) were recruited for 3-dimensional wrist motion analysis testing. Kinematic coupling (the ratio of wrist flexion/extension to radial-ulnar deviation), kinematic path length (a measure of total angle distance), clinical measures, and performance measures were collected during 2 tasks: dart throwing and hammering. For each outcome, between-group comparisons employed a 1-way analysis of variance with post hoc analysis using the Fisher least significant difference test. Results All clinical measures (flexion-extension, radial-ulnar deviation, and grip strength) were decreased for 4CF and PRC patients compared with healthy subjects. Coupling, kinematic path length, and performance were all significantly reduced in 4CF and PRC patients compared with healthy subjects during both tasks. Reduced coupling and a shorter kinematic path length are indicative of less global and combined wrist motion. There were no differences identified in coupling patterns or performance between the surgical groups for the dart-throwing task. However, in hammering, the kinematic path length and performance (time and total strikes) were worse in 4CF than in PRC. Conclusions Differences in wrist kinematics and performance were identified between the groups. PRC subjects performed better on kinematic and performance variables. As expected, both groups demonstrated decreased wrist kinematic motion and functional performance compared with individuals with normal wrists. These results require confirmation and while they cannot be used to determine the benefits of one procedure over the other, they are an important step in quantifying differences in motion and function between procedures. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic II.
Successful Speaking: Cognitive Mechanisms of Adaptation in Language Production

This chapter reviews research on language production from a psycholinguistic perspective. Much recent research in this area has investigated how the production system adapts to current circumstances and to circumstances that are generally more likely. The chapter describes long-term adaptive mechanisms that arise from implicit learning within the production system and several short-term mechanisms that help the system prevent errors, promote fluency, and manage the flow of information so that listeners can easily understand what is being said.
The Elizabethan New Year's Gift Exchanges, 1559–1603. Edited by Jane A. Lawson. (Oxford, England: Published for The British Academy by Oxford University Press, 2013. Pp. xii, 739. $275.00.)

During the holiday festivities from Christmas through Twelfth Night, English rulers exchanged gifts with some of their subjects. In the early modern era, this custom grew more elaborate and thus re...
Design validation of .18 /spl mu/m 1 GHz cache and register arrays

This paper describes the design and results of SRAM experiments from a prototype test chip in IBM's .18 /spl mu/m 7LM copper BEOL technology. Results and approaches for assuring product applications at 1 GHz across wide process ranges will be discussed. Aggressive product cycle time SRAM applications for IBM's S/390 L2 cache chips require multifaceted approaches to address the following: (i) SRAM operability in product-like clocking and ABIST environments. (ii) Demonstration of yield using 2-dimensional redundancy. (iii) Characterization of SRAM signals used in the macro timing rules. (iv) Obtain high volume pre-product manufacturing test experience. (v) Verify SRAM functionality at technology stress test conditions. Prototype test chips in IBM's .18 /spl mu/m technology have provided opportunities to investigate these areas, greatly mitigate risks associated with ever decreasing product design cycles and exercise the SRAM timing rules and logic models in a product-like application.
Mathematical models in gas-liquid reactions

THE PURPOSE of this paper is to analyze a basic system of semilinear parabolic equations that arises in the study of gas-liquid reactions (see e.g. Astarita [2], Danckwerts [S] or Sherwood and Pigford [18]). The main illustration is the study of the diffusion of a gas A (having concentration a) into a liquid containing a reactant B (having concentration b) with the chemical reaction A + B -+ products. A model is the parabolic system
New Guinean passerines have globally small clutch-sizes

Tropicalbirdshavesmallclutches.Themechanismsresponsibleforgeneratingthispatternremaindebated,and are typically examined by comparing tropical species, with small clutches, to their temperate counterparts, with large clutches.However,variationinclutch-sizeamongtropicalregionsisseldomconsidered.WeshowthatNewGuineanforest passerineslaymarkedlysmallerclutches(n=102species;means.d.=1.520.48)thanothertropicalavifaunas.Whereas tropicalspeciescommonlylaytwo-eggclutches,asubstantialnumberofNewGuineanpasserinesappeartosolely(38%)or frequently (24%) lay single-egg clutches. We used phylogenetic comparative methods to demonstrate that New Guinean passerines lay significantly smaller clutches than congeneric South-East Asian species. We also show that reductions in clutch-size have occurred multiple times among New Guinean passerines, suggesting phylogenetic constraint does not explainthispattern.Instead,currentenvironmentalfactors,includinghighlevelsofparasitismorpredation,mayexplainwhy New Guinean passerines lay small clutches. We conclude that variation in clutch-size between tropical regions offers a valuable opportunity to test drivers of this variation, such as parasitism and predation, originally developed within a tropical-temperate framework.
Failure detectors for wireless sensor-actuator systems

Wireless sensor-actuator systems (WSAS) offer exciting opportunities for emerging applications by facilitating fine-grained monitoring and control, and dense instrumentation. The large scale of such systems increases the need for such systems to tolerate and cope with failures, in a localized and decentralized manner. We present abstractions for detecting node failures and link failures caused by topology changes in a WSAS. These abstractions were designed and implemented as a set of reusable components in nesC under TinyOS. Results, which demonstrate the performance and viability of the abstractions, based on experiments on an 80 node testbed are presented. In the future, these abstractions can be extended to detect and cope with larger classes of failures in WSAS.
Syntheses of Nanostructures of Cobalt Hydrotalcite Like Compounds and Co3O4 via a Microwave-Assisted Reflux Method

An efficient microwave-assisted reflux route has been used to synthesize layered nanostructures of cobalt hydrotalcite like compound spheres. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that these structures are self-assemblies of the nanosheets with uniform 5-nm thickness. The layered cobalt hydrotalcite like compound has high surface area and large pore volume, which are 176 m2/g and 1.13 m3/g, respectively. These cobalt hydrotalcite like compounds can transfer into the spinel structure of Co3O4, which keeps a uniform spherical shape. Surface area and pore volume of the Co3O4 are 61 m2/g and 0.5 cm3/g, respectively. Both materials show electrocatalytic activity and stability for the electrochemical reduction of oxygen. High surface area of these catalysts correlates with high rates of electrochemical reduction of oxygen. Therefore, these materials have potential as electrocatalytic materials or as noble metal catalyst supports. This efficient route is also used to synthesize other porous transition metal...
Polyimide - Substrate Bonding Studies Using gamma -APS Coupling Agent

Application of polyimides in microelectronics fabrication for interlevel dielectric, passivation, or device isolation requires that the polymer films maintain interface integrity with a variety of surfaces at high temperature and during solvent processing. y-aminopropyltriethoxy-silane (y-APS) in aqueous solution is the most commonly employed adhesion promoter for the bonding of polyimides to inorganic substrates including silicon oxide, silicon nitride, and ceramic. The adhesion of pyromellitic-dianhydride-oxydianiline (PMDA-ODA) derived polyimide films on y-APS-treated silicon oxide and silicon nitride surfaces under high-temperature processing is considered. Using the standard 90° peel test for adhesion measurements, it is shown that polymer-substrate interface stability is completely maintained even after multiple thermal cycles with 25° \rightarrow 375° \rightarrow 25°C excursions in nitrogen and in forming gas ambients. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) of the polyimide side and the substrate surface exposed in the peel adhesion measurement was used to ascertain the elemental composition and detailed chemistry at the locus of failure. These data show that the peel occurs within the polyimide film near the polymer/substrate interface.
DIURNAL PATTERN OF PLASMA 17-HYDROXYCORTICOSTEROIDS IN PRETECTAL AND TEMPORAL LOBE DISEASE

Diurnal patterns of plasma 17-hydroxycorticosteroids were determined in 2 patients with localized pretectal area disease and in 2 with localized temporal lobe disease. All 4 patients exhibited abnormal patterns in contrast to 3 patients with disease localized elsewhere in the central nervous system, all of whom showed normal diurnal patterns. This provides further evidence that the temporal and pretectal areas of the brain are important in the regulation of pituitary release of corticotropin, and of the diurnal pattern of plasma 17-hydroxycorticosteroids, which is a reflection of such release.
Zebrafish as a model for myelopoiesis during embryogenesis

Zebrafish produce nearly identical hematopoeitic cell lineages to those found in mammals and other higher vertebrates. As in mammals, blood cell development proceeds in distinct waves, constituting embryonic (primitive) and adult (definitive) hematopoiesis. The conservation of genes such as scl, pu.1, c/ebpα, mpo, l-plastin, and lysozyme C in myelopoiesis and the corresponding expression patterns in zebrafish suggests that shared genetic pathways regulate this complex developmental process. In the zebrafish model system, experimental approaches have been applied, including RNA in situ hybridzation, morpholino injections, and the analysis of mutant and transgenic fish lines, leading to improved understanding of the regulation in vivo of key molecular pathways with conserved roles in vertebrate myelopoiesis.
Metabolic differences and the development of obesity.

Abstract Studies, such as those on Pima Indians, have shown that metabolic factors are involved in the development of obesity and that being overweight is not simply a result of “sloth and gluttony.” However, the environment also affects the development of obesity. Among individuals in a given environment, the variability in body size is influenced by genetically determined responses to that environment. People with a low metabolic rate (adjusted for body size and composition) are prone to weight gain, whereas those with a high level of spontaneous physical activity are less likely to become obese. Similarly, individuals with a high 24-hour respiratory quotient (RQ) are more likely to gain weight than those with a low RQ. Insulin sensitivity (not insulin resistance) is another metabolic predictor of obesity. Genetic linkage studies suggest a number of genes are linked to the development of obesity. By sibling-pair linkage analysis, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) was found to be linked to the percentage of body fat, and other studies have shown that fat cell production of TNF-α is greater in obese individuals.
Identification of response functions from axisymmetric membrane inflation tests: Implications for biomechanics

Abstract There is a need in biomechanics to identify classes of experiments that allow direct determination of constitutive relations while preserving the natural geometry of the tissue. In this paper, we show how specific forms of response functions can be identified for nonlinear hyperelastic membranes by measuring principal stretch ratios, principal curvatures and distending pressures during quasi-static axisymmetric inflation tests. For completeness, we also list all of the equations that are needed to experimentally implement this new constitutive approach.
Calcification of α-elastin coacervates: A bulk property of elastin

Scanning electron microscopy and electron probe microanalysis studies are reported on thin sections of calcified coacervates of α-elastin. It is found that the capacity of elastin coacervates to initiate calcification is a bulk property of the coacervate and not limited to the serum-coacervate interface, that the calcium phosphate deposits act to bind the protein units together and slow the dissolution and spreading of the coacervate as it floats on an air-water interface, and that, within the limits of detectability, there is no involvement of sulfur. As the charged groups of α-elastin had been blocked, the initiation of deposition is due to neutral sites in the protein which are tightly bound to the calcium phosphate deposits.
An Engineer’s Approach to Fusion Energy

Magnetic fusion would be significantly more attractive, and could be developed quicker, and with less expense, if it was based on engineering considerations. This paper discusses the type of systems an engineering approach leads to, and recent physics advances that may permit such systems to be realized.
Comparison of Black Oxide and Tungsten Carbide–Reinforced Diamond-Like Carbon (WC/a-C:H) Surface Treatments for Rolling Element Bearings

Surface-initiated damage increasingly limits the service life of rolling element bearings in challenging environments. In particular, operation in the boundary lubrication regime and/or conditions that produce excessive rolling element–raceway slip require the use of surface treatments on roller bodies and raceways to extend surface durability and component life. The tribological performance of two approaches is compared and contrasted: black oxide chemical conversion treatment and tungsten carbide–reinforced diamond-like carbon (WC/a-C:H) thin film hard coating. Black oxide treatment is performed on both rollers and raceways, whereas WC/a-C:H coatings are deposited on rollers only. The cross-sectional layer structure is compared using transmission electron microscopy, and mechanical properties are measured using nanoindentation. Ring-on-ring friction and wear testing is conducted to obtain Stribeck curves and evaluate adhesive wear resistance and cyclic acceleration performance. Tapered roller bearing fa...
Precise Alignment of Peptidyl tRNA by the Decoding Center Is Essential for EF-G-Dependent Translocation

Summary Translocation is an essential step in the elongation cycle of the protein synthesis that allows for the continual incorporation of new amino acids to the growing polypeptide. Movement of mRNA and tRNAs within the ribosome is catalyzed by EF-G binding and GTP hydrolysis. The 30S subunit decoding center is crucial for the selection of the cognate tRNA. However, it is not clear whether the decoding center participates in translocation. We disrupted the interactions in the decoding center by mutating the universally conserved 16S rRNA bases G530, A1492, and A1493, and the effects of these mutations on translocation were studied. Our results show that point mutation of any of these 16S rRNA bases inhibits EF-G-dependent translocation. Furthermore, the mutant ribosomes showed increased puromycin reactivity in the pretranslocation complexes, indicating that the dynamic equilibrium of the peptidyl tRNA between the classical and hybrid-state configurations is influenced by contacts in the decoding center.
Neurological implications of aniseikonic tilts and stereoscopic completions through homogeneous visual space.

In 1965, it was first reported that BROKEN visual contours complete themselves in textured stereovision across empty or homogeneous space and that they do so strongly following directly the optics of crossed versus uncrossed disparities. The importance was then also noted of this completion effect for any neurophysiological model of stereovision. We now extend these measurements with several additional targets and to an analogous aniseikonic target, and confirm that the completion range has a maximum of about 5. There is much dependence upon target eccentricity and disparity sign, and some on size. That aniseikonic tilts may also be generated over this same range confirms the fact that global neurointegrative processes are of critical importance in all facets of stereovision, and in texture vision in general.
PENETRATION OF DEOXYRIBONUCLEIC ACID INTO HEMOPHILUS INFLUENZAE.

Abstract An analysis has been made of some of the factors influencing the uptake of 32P-labeled transforming DNA by competent Hemophilus influenzae. The pH and ionic strength of the medium, the extent of sonication, and denaturation of the DNA influenced the quantitative adsorption of 32P-labeled material. These findings suggest that the initial attraction or interaction of DNA with competent cells is probably ionic in nature. The second, or irreversible, step in uptake showed pH, ionic strength and temperature optima and was reduced by the metabolic inhibitors 2,4-dinitrophenol, sodium azide, and iodoacetate. Irreversible uptake was also reduced by sonic breakdown and by heat denaturation of the DNA. It is concluded that a highly ordered and specific mechanism is involved in the transport of native polymerized DNA into Hemophilus influenzae.
Incorporating health services research into nursing doctoral programs.

Abstract Despite the successes of the US health care system, problems associated with access, affordability, and quality of care remain to be solved. Health services research (HSR) has the potential to aid nurses in addressing these issues; yet the importance of its inclusion in the academic preparation of nurse researchers has not been consistently recognized. This article discusses the relevance of HSR to nursing, provides a brief review of the history of HSR and its imperatives, and presents rationale for nursing's involvement in HSR. Problems identified by the Re-envisioning PhD project 1 conducted by the University of Washingtonare assessed for relevance to HSR and nursing doctoral preparation. Recommendations are included for integrating HSR into nursing doctoral programs and meeting HSR capacity building needs for the future. Nurs Outlook 2002;50:225-231.
The mechanism of microbial resistance to hexahydro-1,3,5-triethyl-s-triazine

Four strains ofPseudomonas putida and two unidentifiedPseudomonas species that were resistant to hexahydro-1,3,5-triethyl-s-triazine (HHTT) were shown to be resistant to formaldehyde as well. Conjugation experiments revealed that: (a) HHTT and formaldehyde resistance was cotransferred in every case where exconjugants were recovered; (b) in every case HHTT resistance and formaldehyde resistance were expressed to the same level in the exconjugant as in the donor; (c) resistance to either HHTT or formaldehyde alone was never observed; and (d) in instances where HHTT and formaldehyde resistance in the exconjugants was unstable, the exconjugants lost resistance to both agents simultaneously and never to one agent alone. Resistant organisms (e.g.P. putida 3-T-152) had high levels of formaldehyde dehydrogenase and this enzyme appeared to be constitutively expressed. It was concluded that resistance to HHTT was due to resistance to its degradation product, formaldehyde, via detoxification of formaldehyde by formaldehyde dehydrogenase. HHTT- and formaldehyde-sensitive organisms had barely detectable levels (most likely repressed levels) of formaldehyde dehydrogenase. Although speculative, it is possible that formaldehyde resistance may be due to a mutation resulting in derepression of the gene coding for formaldehyde dehydrogenase. While it could not be discerned whether HHTT resistance and formaldehyde resistance were carried on two separate but closely linked genes or if only one gene was involved, the evidence suggested that only one gene was involved. Similarly, it could not be determined whether HHTT and formaldehyde resistance was encoded by chromosomal or plasmid genes.
The clinical significance of malignant pleural effusions in patients with optimally debulked ovarian carcinoma

BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to determine the impact of malignant pleural effusions on survival in patients with optimally debulked, advanced epithelial ovarian carcinoma. METHODS The authors conducted a retrospective review of all patients with advanced epithelial ovarian carcinoma who underwent optimal primary cytoreduction at their institution between January 1987 and August 2000. Survival rates were compared between patients with optimally debulked Stage IIIC epithelial ovarian carcinoma and patients with optimally debulked Stage IV epithelial ovarian carcinoma (according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics [FIGO] staging system) based on cytology-proven malignant pleural effusions. RESULTS Ninety-nine patients were identified, and 97 of those patients were evaluable. The group with Stage IIIC disease included 76 patients, and the group with Stage IV disease included 21 patients. The median age at diagnosis was 55 years (range, 26–88 years). The majority of patients received platinum-based chemotherapy after undergoing optimal primary cytoreduction. Age, tumor grade and histology, and the percentage of patients with ascites were similar in the two groups. The median survival rate was 58 months for patients who had Stage IIIC disease and 30 months for patients who had Stage IV disease (P = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS Although both groups underwent optimal cytoreduction in the abdomen/pelvis and were treated in a similar fashion, the median survival rate of patients with malignant pleural effusions was significantly shorter than the survival of patients without effusions. Many factors that led to or were manifested by pleural effusions, such as undetected bulky residual intrathoracic disease, may have been the cause for this survival difference. In the patients with effusions, one or more of these contributing factors may have led to the observed decreased survival rate, warranting further investigation. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.
Kinetic Analysis of Oxygen Reduction on Pt(111) in Acid Solutions: Intrinsic Kinetic Parameters and Anion Adsorption Effects

Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) kinetics in acid solutions was studied by analysis of the polarization curves obtained by rotating disk electrode method for Pt(111) in HClO4 and H2SO4 solutions. The model for ORR kinetic currents assumes that the intrinsic exchange current and Tafel slope are independent of anion adsorption. The site blocking and electronic effects of adsorbed OH (in HClO4) and bisulfate (in H2SO4) were evaluated with the adsorption isotherms incorporated in the model. The best fits yielded the intrinsic Tafel slope in the range from −118 to −130 mV/dec, supporting single electron transfer in the rate-determining step with the corresponding transfer coefficients equal to 0.50 and 0.45, respectively. In addition to site blocking, a negative electronic effect on ORR kinetics was found for both OH and bisulfate with the effect of the latter being much stronger. The deviation of the apparent Tafel slope in HClO4 from its intrinsic value can be fully accounted for by the site blocking and elec...