Moral Reasoning and Aggressive Behavior: Concurrent and Longitudinal Relations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Manning, Maureen A.; Bear, George G.

2011-01-01

The purposes of this study were to determine whether two forms of moral reasoning commonly found in early elementary school, self-oriented and psychological needs-oriented, are related to both current and future aggression. A total of 132 students participated in a study that began when they were in first or second grade and concluded two years…

Potential for Automobile Weight Reduction Outlook as of 1975-1976

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1978-08-01

A study has been carried out to evaluate the potential for weight reduction of automobiles. It is concluded that automobiles of lighter weight than those current (1976 models) in the domestic market may be built in each of three size classes, 4, 5, a...

The International Provision and Supply of Publications.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Line, Maurice B.; And Others

As part of a Universal Availability of Publications (UAP) program, this report describes the current situation in international interlending and possible future models. From a review of literature and statistics previously collected, and a 1979 study of 15 international supply centers, it is concluded that international loan demand is increasing…

Environmental Research Laboratories in the Federal Government: An Inventory, Volume II.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Teich, Albert H.; And Others

The report concludes an inventory listing of the structure, capabilities, and current research facilities of virtually all Federal Government R and D laboratories engaged in environmental studies. The inventory from DOD/USA through DOT/USCG is presented. Volume I is SE 015 598. (Author/RH)

Globalizacion y Educacion en America Latina (Globalization and Education in Latin America).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Steffan, Heinz Dieterich

1995-01-01

Discusses the relationship between globalization and education: its ideology (as generated by global system-intellectuals), and its current structure and future tendencies. Presents a case study of Mexico and the increasing importance of socialization through cyberspace. Concludes that without a worldwide democratization process, more than 50% of…

Developing Critical Thinking in Undergraduate Courses: A Philosophical Approach.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kalman, Calvin S.

2002-01-01

Examines how 20th century philosophers of science have influenced current physics educational research. Examines the introduction of a study of these philosophers in several courses, including the calculus-based introductory physics course on optics and modern physics. Concludes that students seem to have made a marked improvement in their…

Continuing Education Needs of Natural Resource Managers and Scientists.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

George, John L.; Dubin, Samuel S.

Five thousand natural resource managers and scientists throughout the United States were asked to indicate their current education needs. It was concluded that, merely to keep abreast, they should spend one day a week or the equivalent in regularly scheduled study. Training is needed in environmental management, interrelationships of the…

The 1982 Environmental Quality Index: A New Rallying Cry.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

National Wildlife, 1982

1982-01-01

Presents findings of National Wildlife's annual analysis of the state of the nation's natural resources, subjectively based upon personal interviews, news reports, and the most current scientific studies. Concludes that the status of wildlife, water, living space, and soil is worse with minerals, air, and soil the same. (DC)

Local and Community History: Some Cautionary Remarks on an Idea Whose Time Has Returned.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gerber, David A.

1979-01-01

Analyzes past local history movements and addresses benefits and problems for historical studies and history teaching in the current upsurge of interest in local and community history. Concludes that local history must transcend parochialism in order to see the larger picture. (KC)

How the Apollo Program Changed the Geology of the Moon

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, J. V.; Steele, I. M.

1973-01-01

Evaluates the effect of the Apollo program on the geology of the Moon to determine further study problems. Concludes that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration can provide excellent justification for its extension since human beings have the possibility of using the rocks in ways not currently conceived. (CC)

Review of the quality of studies on the economic effects of smoke-free policies on the hospitality industry

PubMed Central

Scollo, M; Lal, A; Hyland, A; Glantz, S

2003-01-01

Data sources: Researchers sought all studies produced before 31 August 2002. Articles published in scientific journals were located with Medline, Science Citation Index, Social Sciences Citation Index, Current Contents, PsychInfo, Econlit, and Healthstar. Unpublished studies were located from tobacco company websites and through internet searches. Study selection: 97 studies that made statements about economic impact were included. 93% of the studies located met the selection criteria as determined by consensus between multiple reviewers. Data extraction: Findings and characteristics of studies (apart from funding source) were classified independently by two researchers. A third assessor blind to both the objective of the present study and to funding source also classified each study. Data synthesis: In studies concluding a negative impact, the odds of using a subjective outcome measure was 4.0 times (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4 to 9.6; p = 0.007) and the odds of not being peer reviewed was 20 times (95% CI 2.6 to 166.7; p = 0.004) that of studies concluding no such negative impact. All of the studies concluding a negative impact were supported by the tobacco industry. 94% of the tobacco industry supported studies concluded a negative economic impact compared to none of the non-industry supported studies. Conclusion: All of the best designed studies report no impact or a positive impact of smoke-free restaurant and bar laws on sales or employment. Policymakers can act to protect workers and patrons from the toxins in secondhand smoke confident in rejecting industry claims that there will be an adverse economic impact. PMID:12612356

A Historical Analysis of Electric Currents in Textbooks: A Century of Influence on Physics Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Stocklmayer, Susan; Treagust, David

1994-01-01

Analyzes the presentations of electric current in physics textbooks. Concludes that from 1891 to 1991 most textbooks used a fluid model, which predated Faraday, for explaining direct-current circuits. (PR)

Effective Time Management in Battalion Task Force Operations

DTIC Science & Technology

1993-06-01

at the National Training Center is used to isolate areas that are symptomatic of time management deficiencies and to establish that a problem of...managing exists within task force operations. This study establishes that time management is a problem and that current doctrinal references offer...incomplete time management guidance. This study then suggests a variety of techniques and procedures to improve the problem. This study concludes time can be

Implications of the INF (intermediate nuclear force) treaty on NATO strategy. Student report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Amend, J.H.

1988-03-01

The INF Treaty has refocused NATO attention on the longstanding concern of the applicability of the current NATO strategy. This study examines the implications of the INF Treaty on the current NATO strategy of Flexible Response. The tenets of Flexible Response include sustainability and escalation control. This study concludes that even prior to the INF Treaty, Flexible Response was not a valid strategy due to lack of sustainability and escalation control. In the absence of a valid Flexible Response Doctrine, NATO strategy reverts to massive Retaliation. Recommendations to alleviate this situation are suggested.

Effects of Agricultural Sales CDE Modules on Content Knowledge and Argumentation Skill

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sapp, Sarah B.; Thoron, Andrew C.

2014-01-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the type of training module on argumentation skill, student content knowledge achievement, and performance in an agricultural sales practicum completed by secondary school agriculture students. Current research has concluded that most students do not possess the academic or transferable…

Problems in Teaching the Topic of Redox Reactions: Actions and Conceptions of Chemistry Teachers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

De Jong, Onno; And Others

1995-01-01

Presents a case study of problems that can occur when teaching the topic of redox reactions to grade-11 students. Concludes that the teachers' scientific expertise is an important source of difficulties when teaching redox reactions. Discusses implications for improvement of current chemistry classroom practice and content-related teacher…

Bourdieu and Academic Capitalism: Faculty "Habitus" in Materials Science and Engineering

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mendoza, Pilar; Kuntz, Aaron M.; Berger, Joseph B.

2012-01-01

We present Bourdieu's notions of field, capital, "habitus," and strategy and how these concepts apply today in light of academic capitalism using an empirical study of faculty work in one specific field in engineering that exemplifies current tendencies brought by academic capitalism. We conclude with a discussion of practical implications.…

Texas Senate Bill 162: Reforming Developmental Education at the Community College Level

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McGruder, Nancy C.

2016-01-01

The purpose of the current study was to determine if three community colleges were serving developmental education students in an effective and cost-efficient manner, make observations about the developmental education demographics, and conclude if Senate Bill 162 (SB 162) increased the percentage of college ready students who participated in…

TELEVISION FOR HIGHER EDUCATION IN COLORADO--A FIVE-YEAR PLAN.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Colorado Association of State Institutions of Higher Education, Denver.

THIS REPORT PRESENTS RESULTS OF AN 18-MONTH STUDY WHICH CONCLUDES THAT TELEVISION CAN BE USED IN COLORADO HIGHER EDUCATION TO INCREASE EFFICIENCY AND IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF INSTRUCTION. THE IMPORTANCE OF IMMEDIATE ACTION, TO MEET BUDGET DEADLINES, IS STRESSED. THE REPORT DEALS WITH FOUR INSTITUTIONS CURRENTLY USING EDUCATIONAL TV TO A LIMITED…

Current status of anti-inflammatory therapy for posttraumatic osteoarthritis.

PubMed

Schmal, H; Marintschev, I; Salzmann, G M

2016-09-01

Although there is ample evidence that intra-articular injuries are associated with the up-regulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, the success of anti-inflammatory, disease-modifying treatments to prevent posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) remain uncertain. To summarize the current status of anti-inflammatory therapy for PTOA, we conducted a systematic review. 9 clinical studies in humans were identified applying anti-inflammatory agents to prevent or treat PTOA. A total of 347 patients aged an average 41 ± 14 years were included in this review. 5 studies had comparable designs with randomized allocation. Those studies of course had a statistically significant higher Coleman Methodology Score (65 ± 6) than the case-control studies (39 ± 13, p = 0.013). The most frequently reported main outcome parameter was pain assessed by different scales (n = 7), the most examined joint the knee (n = 7). The majority of the analyses (n = 6) focused on the intra-articular (IA) application of hyaluronic acid (HA) reporting mainly positive effects. One study stated positive results following IA administration of Interleukin 1 receptor antagonist in -patients presenting rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. Platelet-rich plasma was also used to relieve symptoms following acute injury, but the study quality was too low to conclude any effects. Although the initial data, especially regarding IA HA injection, are encouraging, study designs differ substantially. Therefore, current data does not allow us to conclude that anti-inflammatory therapy following acute injuries has beneficial effects on short- or long-term outcomes.

What Are Elementary and Middle School Students Expected to Learn about the Sun and Moon in Taiwan and the US?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yang, Li-Ling; Soprano, Kristina; McAllister, Meredith

2012-01-01

The overarching goal of this study is to examine what is considered most important regarding the depth, breadth and content of space science concepts as reflected in current national science education standards and science curricula in Taiwan and the US. Major findings of this study conclude that many skills and concepts articulated in the…

National Transonic Facility Characterization Status

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bobbitt, C., Jr.; Everhart, J.; Foster, J.; Hill, J.; McHatton, R.; Tomek, W.

2000-01-01

This paper describes the current status of the characterization of the National Transonic Facility. The background and strategy for the tunnel characterization, as well as the current status of the four main areas of the characterization (tunnel calibration, flow quality characterization, data quality assurance, and support of the implementation of wall interference corrections) are presented. The target accuracy requirements for tunnel characterization measurements are given, followed by a comparison of the measured tunnel flow quality to these requirements based on current available information. The paper concludes with a summary of which requirements are being met, what areas need improvement, and what additional information is required in follow-on characterization studies.

The Kalamazoo Promise: A Study of Philanthropy's Increasing Role in the American Economy and Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Strickland, Shelley

2009-01-01

This paper explores the Kalamazoo Promise through the lens of the existing literature on other privately funded scholarships programs and the broader advancement knowledge base. The author concludes that current research does not adequately explain the Promise, and suggests a conceptual model--a logic model--to be used in philanthropy evaluation.

Current Issues in Art and Design Education: Modularization and Course Ethos: The Case of Art and Design Higher Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wayte, Gillian; Wayte, Nick

1990-01-01

Examines why art and design educators resist the modularization of degree-level courses. Identifies key characteristics of art education in England through an ethnographic study. Discusses government policy and rationales for modular and integrated courses. Concludes that the holistic approach to education allows students to expound and develop…

Teachers' Perceptions of Video Games: MMOGs and the Future of Preservice Teacher Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Schrader, P. G.; Zheng, Dongping; Young, Michael

2006-01-01

P.G. Schrader, Dongping Zheng, and Michael Young examine how preservice teachers' personal experiences with video games inform their views of gaming in the classroom. They link the results of their study to current literature and conclude that preservice teachers' experiences steer them away from game genres such as massively multiplayer online…

Predicting Secondary Agriculture Teachers' Job Stress from Selected Personal, Family, and Work-Related Characteristics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Torres, Robert M.; Lambert, Misty D.; Lawver, Rebecca G.

2010-01-01

The study sought to describe the characteristics and explain the current level of job stress among secondary agriculture teachers. The sample consisted of 370 secondary agriculture teachers. Data were collected using the Job Stress Survey (Spielberger & Vagg, 1999). From the findings it was concluded that the average secondary agriculture teacher…

The Myths and Realities of Age Limits for Law Enforcement and Firefighting Personnel. A Report by the Chairman of the Select Committee on Aging. House of Representatives, Ninety-Eighth Congress, Second Session.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Congress of the U.S., Washington, DC. House Select Committee on Aging.

A study examined current age limitation policies affecting Federal public safety personnel and the interrelationship between job performance and aging. The study concluded that mandatory retirement of competent law enforcement officers and firefighters is unnecessary and wasteful and that the Federal Government's failure to recognize this problem…

Current and efficiency of Brownian particles under oscillating forces in entropic barriers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nutku, Ferhat; Aydιner, Ekrem

2015-04-01

In this study, considering the temporarily unbiased force and different forms of oscillating forces, we investigate the current and efficiency of Brownian particles in an entropic tube structure and present the numerically obtained results. We show that different force forms give rise to different current and efficiency profiles in different optimized parameter intervals. We find that an unbiased oscillating force and an unbiased temporal force lead to the current and efficiency, which are dependent on these parameters. We also observe that the current and efficiency caused by temporal and different oscillating forces have maximum and minimum values in different parameter intervals. We conclude that the current or efficiency can be controlled dynamically by adjusting the parameters of entropic barriers and applied force. Project supported by the Funds from Istanbul University (Grant No. 45662).

Adherence to guidelines for cardiovascular screening in current high school preparticipation evaluation forms.

PubMed

Rausch, Christopher M; Phillips, George C

2009-10-01

We compared the content of the cardiac screening questions on US state high school athletic association preparticipation evaluation forms with current consensus recommendations. We reviewed the high school athletic association's approved, recommended, or required sports preparticipation form from each of the 50 US states and the District of Columbia, and compared the content of the personal and family history components with current recommendations for cardiac screening questions. We found that 85% of the preparticipation forms in current use contain all elements of the formerly recommended guidelines, but only 17% contain all elements of the new consensus guidelines. We conclude that although there appears to be some improvement in the content of the preparticipation forms in current use compared with previous studies, the vast majority of these forms are incomplete compared with current consensus guidelines.

Fitness, autonomic regulation and orthostatic tolerance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buckey, Jay C.

1991-01-01

Work on this grant has consisted of two major studies of cardiovascular regulation in athletes along with several smaller supporting studies. This summary will give a brief overview of two major studies, and then conclude with an analysis of what the findings from these studies mean practically, and how they can be applied to current problems with post-flight orthostatic intolerance. The first study addresses a cross-sectional analysis of orthostatic intolerance in highly aerobically trained individuals; the second addresses ventricular pressure/volume relationships in athletes.

Graduate performance of science education department in implementing conservation-based science teaching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parmin; Savitri, E. N.; Amalia, A. V.; Pratama, M. R.

2018-04-01

This study aims to measure the performance of graduates in implementing conservation-based science teaching. The study employed a qualitative method by collecting the self-assessment data from alumni and the performance assessment from the headmasters of schools where the graduates are currently teaching. There are nine indicators of conservation insight examined in this study. The study concluded that the 78 alumni, who have become teachers when the study was conducted, perform well in implementing conservative science lessons.

Social power and social class: conceptualization, consequences, and current challenges.

PubMed

Rucker, Derek D; Galinsky, Adam D

2017-12-01

This article offers a primer on social power and social class with respect to their theoretical importance, conceptual distinction, and empirical relationship. We introduce and define the constructs of social power, social class, and one's psychological sense of power. We next explore the complex relationship between social power and social class. Because social class can produce a sense of power within an individual, studies on social power can inform theory and research on social class. We conclude with a discussion of the current challenges and future opportunities for the study of social power and social class. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Current status of water environment and their microbial biosensor techniques - Part II: Recent trends in microbial biosensor development.

PubMed

Nakamura, Hideaki

2018-05-08

In Part I of the present review series, I presented the current state of the water environment by focusing on Japanese cases and discussed the need to further develop microbial biosensor technologies for the actual water environment. I comprehensively present trends after approximately 2010 in microbial biosensor development for the water environment. In the first section, after briefly summarizing historical studies, recent studies on microbial biosensor principles are introduced. In the second section, recent application studies for the water environment are also introduced. Finally, I conclude the present review series by describing the need to further develop microbial biosensor technologies. Graphical abstract Current water pollution indirectly occurs by anthropogenic eutrophication (Part I). Recent trends in microbial biosensor development for water environment are described in part II of the present review series.

The Ar-NO van der Waals complex studied by resonant multiphoton ionization spectroscopy involving photoion and photoelectron measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sato, Kenji; Achiba, Yohji; Kimura, Katsumi

1984-07-01

Using a 5% mixture of NO in Ar in a supersonic free jet, in the present work we have carried out measurements of the total ion current in the 380-385 nm laser wavelength region. We have also measured photoelectron kinetic energy spectra at individual ion current peaks. In the ion-current spectrum we have observed a new vibrational progression which consists of four peaks in the wavelength region longer than the peak of the two-photon transition of the free NO molecule NO(X, v″=0) →2hν NO(C,v'=0). It has been concluded that the new ion-current peaks are attributed to bound-to-bound transitions of the Ar-NO van der Waals complex from its ground state to the two-photon resonant state expressed by Ar-NO*(C 2Π, v'=0), in which the NO component is in the 3p Rydberg state. The whole resonant ionization process studied may be expressed by Ar-NO(X, v″=0) →2hνAr-NO*(C, v'=0) →hν Ar-NO+(X, v+=0). Each ion-current peak separation is about 50 cm-1, which may correspond to the frequency of the Ar-NO intermolecular stretching vibration, showing a strong anharmonicity. The dissociation energy (D0) of the Ar-NO*(C 2Π) state has been found to be 0.055±0.001 eV. From the photoelectron spectra, we also conclude that the adiabatic ionization energy of Ar-NO is Ia =9.148±0.005 eV and the dissociation energy of the Ar-NO+(X 1Σ) ion is D0=0.129±0.005 eV.

The Agony and the Ecstasy: Current Status of Hispanic Individuals' Achievement in Higher Education and Earnings - With a Glimpse to the Future

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

De Los Santos, Gilberto; Asgary, Nader; Nazemzadeh, Asghar; DeShields, Jr., Oscar W.

2005-01-01

Some projections about Hispanic individuals point to a rosy picture regarding gains in higher educational enrollment. Other studies lament that these gains are, at best, minimal. Although the so-called higher education pie is undoubtedly expanding, this article concludes that Hispanic adults are losing, rather than gaining, educational attainment…

A Comparative Study of the Current Situation on Teaching about World War II in Japanese and American Classrooms.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barth, James L.

1992-01-01

Compares questionnaire results sent to elementary and secondary school teachers in Indiana and Japan. Surveys how and what is taught about World War II. Reports teachers in the United States concentrate more on Europe, Pearl Harbor, and fascism, whereas Japanese teachers are more concerned with Pacific theater. Concludes Japanese teach peace…

Structural response of transport airplanes in crash situations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thomson, R. G.; Caiafa, C.

1983-01-01

This report highlights the results of contractural studies of transport accident data undertaken in a joint research program sponsored by the FAA and NASA. From these accident data studies it was concluded that the greatest potential for improved transport crashworthiness is in the reduction of fire related fatalities. Accident data pertaining to fuselage integrity, main landing gear collapse, fuel tank rupture, wing breaks, tearing of tank lower surfaces, and engine pod scrubbing are discussed. In those accidents where the energy absorbing protective capability of the fuselage structure is expended and the airplane experiences major structural damage, trauma caused fatalities are also discussed. The dynamic performance of current seat/restraint systems are examined but it is concluded that the accident data does not adequately define the relationship between occupant response and the dynamic interaction with the seat, floor and fuselage structure.

Data Integrity-A Study of Current Regulatory Thinking and Action.

PubMed

Shafiei, Nader; De Montardy, Regis; Rivera-Martinez, Edwin

2015-01-01

In reaction to breaches of data integrity in the pharmaceutical industry, regulatory authorities have introduced inspection approaches or initiatives with the aim of reducing occurrences of data integrity problems. This review article-based on study of 65 cases of regulatory action from 2002 to 2014-provides an overview of current regulatory thinking and action on breaches of data integrity affecting GxP (health-related regulations) processes supporting non-clinical studies, clinical studies, laboratory controls, and production controls. These case studies largely represent position of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the regulatory agencies affiliated with the European Medicines Agency. Also discussed is the role of human factors as a potential source of data integrity problems. The article concludes by recommending some remedial controls that could be established to avoid or reduce occurrences of data integrity problems.Lay Abstract: In fulfilling their mission to protect public health, regulatory agencies (e.g., U.S. Food and Drug Administration, European Medicines Agency) must establish confidence that medical products they approve are fit for their intended use. In so doing they rely on scientific and operational data generated during research, development, manufacturing, sales, marketing, distribution, and post-marketing surveillance activities. The level of confidence they build is directly proportional to the scientific validity and integrity of data presented to them by the sponsors of medical products. In this article we present analysis of 65 case studies that document regulatory action taken by various regulatory agencies on breach of data integrity between 2002 and 2014. The ensuing discussion on current trends largely represents position of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and European Medicines Agency. The article concludes by proposing some remedial controls that could be established by pharmaceutical companies to avoid or reduce occurrences of data integrity problems. © PDA, Inc. 2015.

The contribution of physical activity and media use during childhood and adolescence to adult women's body image.

PubMed

Slater, Amy; Tiggemann, Marika

2006-07-01

This study aimed to investigate the effects of both past and current physical activity and media use on women's body image. A sample of 144 female undergraduate students completed measures of current physical activity, media use and body image, as well as providing retrospective reports of their physical activity participation and media usage during childhood and adolescence. Regression analyses showed that childhood experiences of physical activity and media use predicted adult body-image concerns more strongly than current activities. It was concluded that early experiences of both physical activity and media use during childhood and adolescence play an important role in the development of adult women's body image.

Regulatory trends in the battery industry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McColl, K. G.

1994-02-01

The scope of regulations in the battery industry is extensive and also complex. In the future, regulations will become more demanding and will encompass issues not currently considered. Increased focus on environmental issues by government bodies, environmental groups, local communities will result in more strict compliance standards. The USA is currently leading the world's battery industries in the scope and compliance level of regulations. By studying trends in the USA, the rest of the battery industry can prepare itself for the future operating environment. This paper reviews the most critical areas of air pollution, blood-lead levels and recycling. The paper concludes that the battery industry must adopt a culture of exceeding current compliance standards.

Environmental Metals and Cardiovascular Disease in Adults: A Systematic Review beyond Lead and Cadmium

PubMed Central

Nigra, Anne E; Ruiz-Hernandez, Adrian; Redon, Josep; Navas-Acien, Ana; Tellez-Plaza, Maria

2018-01-01

Published systematic reviews concluded that there is moderate to strong evidence to infer a potential role of lead and cadmium, widespread metal exposures, as cardiovascular risk factors. For other non-essential metals, the evidence has not been appraised systematically. Our objective was to systematically review epidemiologic studies on the association between cardiovascular disease in adults and the environmental metals antimony, barium, chromium, nickel, tungsten, uranium, and vanadium. We identified a total of 4 articles on antimony, 1 on barium, 5 on chromium, 1 on nickel, 4 on tungsten, 1 on uranium and 0 on vanadium. We concluded that the current evidence is not sufficient to inform on the cardiovascular role of these metals because the small number of studies. Few experimental studies have also evaluated the role of these metals in cardiovascular outcomes. Additional epidemiologic and experimental studies, including prospective cohort studies, are needed to understand the role of metals, including exposure to metal mixtures, in cardiovascular disease development. PMID:27783356

Avoidant Personality Disorder: a Current Review.

PubMed

Weinbrecht, Anna; Schulze, Lars; Boettcher, Johanna; Renneberg, Babette

2016-03-01

This review focuses on recent research on diagnostic aspects, etiology, and treatment of avoidant personality disorder (AVPD). Current studies stress the close relation between AVPD and social anxiety disorder, the influence of genetic factors in the development of AVPD, and the relative stability of symptoms. Treatment approaches should target the pervasive patterns of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation. Empirical evidence for cognitive-behavior and schema therapy is promising. Few other therapeutic approaches have been developed, but until now, these have only been investigated in case studies. We conclude that AVPD qualifies as a neglected disorder and that more research specifically on avoidant personality disorder symptoms and its treatment is needed.

A phenomenological study of photon production in low energy neutrino nucleon scattering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jenkins, James P; Goldman, Terry J

2009-01-01

Low energy photon production is an important background to many current and future precision neutrino experiments. We present a phenomenological study of t-channel radiative corrections to neutral current neutrino nucleus scattering. After introducing the relevant processes and phenomenological coupling constants, we will explore the derived energy and angular distributions as well as total cross-section predictions along with their estimated uncertainties. This is supplemented throughout with comments on possible experimental signatures and implications. We conclude with a general discussion of the analysis in the context of complimentary methodologies. This is based on a talk presented at the DPF 2009 meeting inmore » Detroit MI.« less

Symposium Summary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levesque, Emily M.

2017-11-01

This proceeding summarizes the highlights of IAU 329, ``The Lives and Death-Throes of Massive Stars'', held in Auckland, NZ from 28 Nov - 2 Dec. I consider the progress that has been made in the field over the course of these ``beach symposia'', outline the overall content of the conference, and discuss how the current subfields in massive stellar astrophysics have evolved in recent years. I summarize some of the new results and innovative approaches that were presented during the symposium, and conclude with a discussion of how current and future resources in astronomy can serve as valuable tools for studying massive stars in the coming years.

[Current state of competence assessment in nursing].

PubMed

Darmann-Finck, Ingrid; Reuschenbach, Bernd

2013-01-01

Competency measurement is central to the optimisation of outcome oriented educational processes in nursing, similar to the concept of evidence based practice. The classification of measurement tools provides the basis for describing the current state of research and development in relation to competence measurement in nursing science, and any gaps are identified. The article concludes with questioning the importance of outcome oriented quality orientation in order to achieve an increase in quality during training. Further methodological developments and qualitative studies are needed to examine the context specific processes of interaction and learning, beyond competence diagnostics. Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier GmbH.

Improving health care costing with resource consumption accounting.

PubMed

Ozyapici, Hasan; Tanis, Veyis Naci

2016-07-11

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to explore the differences between a traditional costing system (TCS) and resource consumption accounting (RCA) based on a case study carried out in a hospital. Design/methodology/approach - A descriptive case study was first carried out to identify the current costing system of the case hospital. An exploratory case study was then conducted to reveal how implementing RCA within the case hospital assigns costs differently to gallbladder surgeries than the current costing system (i.e. a TCS). Findings - The study showed that, in contrast to a TCS, RCA considers the unused capacity, which is the difference between the work that can be performed based on current resources and the work that is actually being performed. Therefore, it assigns lower total costs to open and laparoscopic gallbladder surgeries. The study also showed that by separating costs into fixed and variable RCA allows managers to benefit from a pricing strategy based on the difference between the service's selling price and variable costs incurred in providing that service. Research limitations/implications - The limitation of this study is that, because of time constraints, the implementation was performed in the general surgery department only. However, since RCA is an advanced system that has the same application procedures for any department inside in a hospital, managers need only time gaps to implement this system to all parts of the hospital. Practical implications - This study concluded that RCA is better than a TCS for use in health care settings that have high overhead costs because it accurately assigns overhead costs to services by considering unused capacities incurred by a hospital. Consequently, this study provides insight into both measuring and managing unused capacities within the health care sector. This study also concluded that RCA helps health care administrators increase their competitive advantage by allowing them to determine the lowest service price. Originality/value - Since the literature review found no study comparing RCA with TCS in a real-life health care setting, little is known about differences arising from applying these systems in this context. Thus, the current study fills this gap in the literature by comparing RCA with TCS for both open and laparoscopic gallbladder surgeries.

Marking Out a Disciplinary Common Ground: The Role of Chemical Pedagogy in Establishing the Doctrine of Affinity at the Heart of British Chemistry

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Taylor, Georgette

2008-01-01

This paper presents a case study that contributes to the current debate among historians of chemistry concerning the role and influence of pedagogy in science. Recently, Bernadette Bensaude-Vincent and her colleagues concluded that in nineteenth-century France, "textbooks played an important role in discipline building and in creating…

The life and death of ATR/sensor fusion and the hope for resurrection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogers, Steven K.; Sadowski, Charles; Bauer, Kenneth W.; Oxley, Mark E.; Kabrisky, Matthew; Rogers, Adam; Mott, Stephen D.

2008-04-01

For over half a century, scientists and engineers have worked diligently to advance computational intelligence. One application of interest is how computational intelligence can bring value to our war fighters. Automatic Target Recognition (ATR) and sensor fusion efforts have fallen far short of the desired capabilities. In this article we review the capabilities requested by war fighters. When compared to our current capabilities, it is easy to conclude current Combat Identification (CID) as a Family of Systems (FoS) does a lousy job. The war fighter needed capable, operationalized ATR and sensor fusion systems ten years ago but it did not happen. The article reviews the war fighter needs and the current state of the art. The article then concludes by looking forward to where we are headed to provide the capabilities required.

Vitamin E and breast cancer prevention: current status and future potential.

PubMed

Kline, Kimberly; Lawson, Karla A; Yu, Weiping; Sanders, Bob G

2003-01-01

Vitamin E is a collective term used to refer to a number of structurally and functionally different compounds. Although some vitamin E compounds are popular supplements marketed for their potential beneficial antioxidant effects for a number of chronic diseases including various forms of cancer, a recent report by the National Academy of Sciences Food and Nutrition Board concluded that too little is known at present to provide definitive answers regarding whether taking larger doses of dietary antioxidants will help prevent chronic diseases. Recent reviews of epidemiological data suggest that dietary source vitamin E may provide some protection against breast cancer, while vitamin E supplements do not. A majority of studies investigating the protective effects of certain types of vitamin E in animal models of mammary cancer prevention conclude that there is little or no effect. The study of vitamin E is complex, and the vitamin E field faces many scientific challenges.

The Mineralogy of Microbiologically Influenced Corrosion

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-01-01

cathodically active). The biomineralization rate and the corrosion current control oxide accumulation. Localized corrosion current that exceeds the... phosphate ). Localized corrosion would not readily occur unless Cl- was the predominant anion in the medium. They concluded that the Cl- concentration...transforms into goethite and/or hematite over time. For mild steel corrosion under anodic control , manganese oxides elevate con-osion current, but will

Atmospheric propagation issues relevant to optical communications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Churnside, James H.; Shaik, Kamran

1989-01-01

Atmospheric propagation issues relevant to space-to-ground optical communications for near-earth applications are studied. Propagation effects, current optical communication activities, potential applications, and communication techniques are surveyed. It is concluded that a direct-detection space-to-ground link using redundant receiver sites and temporal encoding is likely to be employed to transmit earth-sensing satellite data to the ground some time in the future. Low-level, long-term studies of link availability, fading statistics, and turbulence climatology are recommended to support this type of application.

The Built Environment's Effect on Learning: Applying Current Research. Spotlight: Updating Our Agendas.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dyck, James

2002-01-01

Reviews current literature--noting limitations--and provides observations regarding the impact on learning of six physical attributes of the Montessori prepared environment: aesthetics, spatial factors, light, noise, color, and temperature. Suggests guidelines for Montessori classrooms. Concludes by asserting that considering these six…

European Science Notes Information Bulletin Reports on Current European/ Middle Eastern Science

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-07-01

41 Recently concluded and planned experiments are described which arc based on static Kerr effect dis- persion- spectroscopy , optical Kerr effect...studies, and both electric and magnetic resonance 6 molecular beam spectroscopy . These advanced techniques are used to measure with great precision...simuhItio , using thrcc-dimcn- flight using temperature-sensitive films and infrared sional singularities in a panel ncthod. camecras placed on either side

The study of the stress - strain state of the tank with bottom water drainage during operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shchipkova, Yu V.; Tokarev, V. V.

2018-04-01

Bottom drainage from tank is a current problem in modern tank usage. This article proposes the use of the bottom drainage system from the tank with the shape of the sloped cone to the centre of it. Changing the bottom design alters the stress - strain state to be analyzed in the Ansys. The analysis concluded that the proposed drainage system should be applied.

USSR and Eastern Europe Scientific Abstracts Biomedical and Behavioral Sciences, Number 80

DTIC Science & Technology

1977-11-17

A flow diagram shows the acceptable processes for purifying the farm wastes. It was concluded that current methods of handling the wastes were...quilizer, and the successes realized in investigations of its metabolism and pharmacokinetics . The authors undertook to study such distribution of...described (this journal, Vol 63, 1977, p 496, by these authors). A synchronization reaction was observed in the cochlear nuclei—with respect to the

Systematic review of Kinect applications in elderly care and stroke rehabilitation

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

In this paper we present a review of the most current avenues of research into Kinect-based elderly care and stroke rehabilitation systems to provide an overview of the state of the art, limitations, and issues of concern as well as suggestions for future work in this direction. The central purpose of this review was to collect all relevant study information into one place in order to support and guide current research as well as inform researchers planning to embark on similar studies or applications. The paper is structured into three main sections, each one presenting a review of the literature for a specific topic. Elderly Care section is comprised of two subsections: Fall detection and Fall risk reduction. Stroke Rehabilitation section contains studies grouped under Evaluation of Kinect’s spatial accuracy, and Kinect-based rehabilitation methods. The third section, Serious and exercise games, contains studies that are indirectly related to the first two sections and present a complete system for elderly care or stroke rehabilitation in a Kinect-based game format. Each of the three main sections conclude with a discussion of limitations of Kinect in its respective applications. The paper concludes with overall remarks regarding use of Kinect in elderly care and stroke rehabilitation applications and suggestions for future work. A concise summary with significant findings and subject demographics (when applicable) of each study included in the review is also provided in table format. PMID:24996956

Complementary and alternative medicine in paediatrics: a systematic overview/synthesis of Cochrane Collaboration reviews.

PubMed

Meyer, Sascha; Gortner, Ludwig; Larsen, Alexander; Kutschke, Georg; Gottschling, Sven; Gräber, Stefan; Schroeder, Nicole

2013-05-27

A high prevalence of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use has been documented in children with chronic illnesses. Conversely, evidence-based medicine is considered an important contributor in providing the best quality of care. We performed a systematic overview/synthesis of all Cochrane reviews published between 1995 and 2012 in paediatrics that assessed the efficacy, and clinical implications and limitations of CAM use in children. Main outcome variables were: percentage of reviews that concluded that a certain intervention provides a benefit, percentage of reviews that concluded that a certain intervention should not be performed, and percentage of studies that concluded that the current level of evidence is inconclusive. A total of 135 reviews were included - most from the United Kingdom (29/135), Australia (24/135) and China (24/135). Only 5/135 (3.7%) reviews gave a recommendation in favour of a certain intervention; 26/135 (19.4%) issued a conditional positive recommendation, and 9/135 (6.6%) reviews concluded that certain interventions should not be performed. Ninety-five reviews (70.3%) were inconclusive. The proportion of inconclusive reviews increased during three, a priori-defined, time intervals (1995-2000: 15/27 [55.6%]; 2001-2006: 33/44 [75%]; and 2007-2012: 47/64 [73.4%]). The three most common criticisms of the quality of the studies included were: more research needed (82/135), low methodological quality (57/135) and small number of study participants (48/135). Given the disproportionate number of inconclusive reviews, there is an ongoing need for high quality research to assess the potential role of CAM in children. Unless the study of CAM is performed to the same science-based standards as conventional therapies, CAM therapies risk being perpetually marginalised by mainstream medicine.

A new version of the HBSC Family Affluence Scale - FAS III: Scottish Qualitative Findings from the International FAS Development Study.

PubMed

Hartley, Jane E K; Levin, Kate; Currie, Candace

A critical review of the Family Affluence Scale (FAS) concluded that FAS II was no longer discriminatory within very rich or very poor countries, where a very high or a very low proportion of children were categorised as high FAS or low FAS respectively (Currie et al. 2008). The review concluded that a new version of FAS - FAS III - should be developed to take into account current trends in family consumption patterns across the European region, the US and Canada. In 2012, the FAS Development and Validation Study was conducted in eight countries - Denmark, Greenland, Italy, Norway, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Scotland. This paper describes the Scottish qualitative findings from this study. The Scottish qualitative fieldwork comprising cognitive interviews and focus groups sampled from 11, 13 and 15 year-old participants from 18 of the most- and least- economically deprived schools. These qualitative results were used to inform the final FAS III recommendations.

Report of the Tort Policy Working Group on the Causes, Extent and Policy Implications of the Current Crisis in Insurance Availability and Affordability.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Department of Justice, Washington, DC.

Causes and implications of the crisis in liability insurance availability and affordability are discussed in this report. The working group concluded that tort law is a major issue in the insurance crisis and that the federal government can address that issue. The group also concluded that the federal government can do little to remedy other…

Validation of a new micro-manometer pressure sensor for cardiovascular measurements in mice.

PubMed

Trevino, Rodolfo J; Jones, Douglas L; Escobedo, Daniel; Porterfield, John; Larson, Erik; Chisholm, Gary B; Barton, Amanda; Feldman, Marc D

2010-01-01

Abstract The Scisense (London, ON, Canada) micro-manometer pressure sensor is currently being used by investigators to evaluate cardiovascular physiology in mice, but has not been validated to date. The purpose of the current study is to compare the 1.2 F Scisense pressure sensor to the current gold standard produced by Millar Instruments (Houston, TX) (1.4 F). In vitro comparisons were preformed including temperature drift, frequency response analysis up to 250 Hz, and damping coefficient and natural frequency determined via a pop test. The authors also performed in vivo comparisons including pressure drift, dose-response studies to IV isoproterenol, maximum adrenergic stimulation with IV dobutamine, and simultaneous placement of both micro-manometer pressure sensors in the same intact murine hearts. The authors conclude that both sensors are equivalent, and that the Scisense pressure sensor represents an alternative to the current gold standard, the Millar micro-manometer pressure sensor for in vivo pressure measurements in the mouse.

The NASA Deep Space Network (DSN) Array

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gatti, Mark

2006-01-01

The DSN Array Project is currently working with Senior Management at both JPL and NASA to develop strategies towards starting a major implementation project. Several studies within NASA are concluding, all of which recommend that any future DSN capability include arraying of antennas to increase performance. Support of Deep Space, Lunar, and CEV (crewed exploration vehicle) missions is possible. High data rate and TDRSS formatting is being investigated. Any future DSN capacity must include Uplink. Current studies ongoing to investigate and develop technologies for uplink arraying; provides advantages in three ways: 1) N2 effect. EIRP grows as N2(-vs-N for a downlink array); 2) Improved architectural options (can separate uplink and downlink); and 3) Potential for more cost effective transmitters for fixed EIRP.

Neutronic and thermal-hydraulic analysis of fission molybdenum-99 production at Tehran Research Reactor using LEU plate targets.

PubMed

Abedi, Ebrahim; Ebrahimkhani, Marzieh; Davari, Amin; Mirvakili, Seyed Mohammad; Tabasi, Mohsen; Maragheh, Mohammad Ghannadi

2016-12-01

Efficient and safe production of molybdenum-99 ( 99 Mo) radiopharmaceutical at Tehran Research Reactor (TRR) via fission of LEU targets is studied. Neutronic calculations are performed to evaluate produced 99 Mo activity, core neutronic safety parameters and also the power deposition values in target plates during a 7 days irradiation interval. Thermal-hydraulic analysis has been also carried out to obtain thermal behavior of these plates. Using Thermal-hydraulic analysis, it can be concluded that the safety parameters are satisfied in the current study. Consequently, the present neutronic and thermal-hydraulic calculations show efficient 99 Mo production is accessible at significant activity values in TRR current core configuration. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Consciousness and working memory: Current trends and research perspectives.

PubMed

Velichkovsky, Boris B

2017-10-01

Working memory has long been thought to be closely related to consciousness. However, recent empirical studies show that unconscious content may be maintained within working memory and that complex cognitive computations may be performed on-line. This promotes research on the exact relationships between consciousness and working memory. Current evidence for working memory being a conscious as well as an unconscious process is reviewed. Consciousness is shown to be considered a subset of working memory by major current theories of working memory. Evidence for unconscious elements in working memory is shown to come from visual masking and attentional blink paradigms, and from the studies of implicit working memory. It is concluded that more research is needed to explicate the relationship between consciousness and working memory. Future research directions regarding the relationship between consciousness and working memory are discussed. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Causality in cancer epidemiology.

PubMed

Lagiou, Pagona; Adami, Hans-Olov; Trichopoulos, Dimitrios

2005-01-01

In this review, issues of causality in epidemiologic research with emphasis on the aetiology of human cancer are considered. Principles of assessing causation in epidemiological studies of cancer are distinguished into those concerning an individual study, several studies and a particular person. Strengths and weaknesses of various approaches of documenting carcinogenicity in humans are examined and lists of major established causes of human cancer are presented. The review concludes with estimates of mortality from cancer around the world that can be attributed to specific factors under the light of the current scientific knowledge.

Summary of current issues regarding space flight habitability.

PubMed

Novak, J B

2000-09-01

One of the implicit, yet often under-emphasized qualities of human tended spaceflight is the habitability of the spacecraft and mission. This document summarizes some of the points that characterize the current status of this topic. In addition, the summary concludes with goals for future development for this issue.

African-American History: Origins, Development, and Current State of the Field.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Trotter, Joe W.

1993-01-01

Reviews the development of African-American history as a scholarly field within U.S. history. Presents four generations of black historians who have contributed to the development and current status of African-American history. Concludes with a discussion of needed additional research and a 22-item bibliography. (CFR)

Models in Biology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Flannery, Maura C.

1997-01-01

Addresses the most popular models currently being chosen for biological research and the reasons behind those choices. Among the current favorites are zebra fish, fruit flies, mice, monkeys, and yeast. Concludes with a brief examination of the ethical issues involved, and why some animals may need to be replaced in research with model systems.…

Federal health web sites: current & future roles.

PubMed

Cronin, Carol

2002-09-01

An examination of the current and possible future roles of federal health Web sites, this paper provides an overview of site categories, functions, target audiences, marketing approaches, knowledge management, and evaluation strategies. It concludes with a look at future opportunities and challenges for the federal government in providing health information online.

Computer-based cognitive training for ADHD: a review of current evidence.

PubMed

Sonuga-Barke, Edmund; Brandeis, Daniel; Holtmann, Martin; Cortese, Samuele

2014-10-01

There has been an increasing interest in and the use of computer-based cognitive training as a treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The authors' review of current evidence, based partly on a stringent meta-analysis of 6 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in 2013, and an overview of 8 recently published RCTs highlights the inconsistency of findings between trials and across blinded and nonblinded ADHD measures within trials. Based on this, they conclude that more evidence from well-blinded studies is required before cognitive training can be supported as a frontline treatment of core ADHD symptoms. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Entrepreneurship management in health services: an integrative model.

PubMed

Guo, Kristina L

2006-01-01

This research develops an integrated systems model of entrepreneurship management as a method for achieving health care organizational survival and growth. Specifically, it analyzes current health care environment challenges, identifies roles of managers and discusses organizational theories that are relevant to the health care environment, outlines the role of entrepreneurship in health care, and describes the entrepreneurial manager in the entrepreneurial management process to produce desirable organizational outcomes. The study concludes that as current health care environment continues to show intense competition, entrepreneurial managers are responsible for creating innovations, managing change, investing in resources, and recognizing opportunities in the environment to increase organizational viability.

ABH secretor status and pulmonary function.

PubMed

Haines, A P; Imeson, J D; Meade, T W

1982-03-01

Among current cigarette smokers in the Northwick Park Heart Study in N.W. London, England, secretors of ABH antigen had a higher mean peak expiratory flow rate than did nonsecretors. The relationship was independent of other factors known to affect peak expiratory flow rate. No significant differences in peak expiratory flow rate by secretor status were detected in nonsmokers or in pipe and cigar smokers, although a smaller difference was seen among secretors and nonsecretors who were ex-cigarette smokers than among those who were current cigarette smokers. It is concluded that secretion of ABH antigen into the respiratory tract may have a protective effect against pulmonary damage by noxious agents.

A Galvanic Sensor for Monitoring the Corrosion Condition of the Concrete Reinforcing Steel: Relationship Between the Galvanic and the Corrosion Currents

PubMed Central

Pereira, Elsa Vaz; Figueira, Rita Bacelar; Salta, Maria Manuela Lemos; da Fonseca, Inês Teodora Elias

2009-01-01

This work reports a study carried out on the design and performance of galvanic and polarization resistance sensors to be embedded in concrete systems for permanent monitoring of the corrosion condition of reinforcing steel, aiming to establish a correlation between the galvanic currents, Igal, and the corrosion currents, Icorr, estimated from the polarization resistance, Rp. Sensors have been tested in saturated Ca(OH)2 aqueous solutions, under a variety of conditions, simulating the most important parameters that can accelerate the corrosion of concrete reinforcing steel, such as carbonation, ingress of chloride ions, presence or absence of O2. For all the conditions, the influence of temperature (20 to 55 °C) has also been considered. From this study, it could be concluded that the galvanic currents are sensitive to the various parameters following a trend similar to that of the Rp values. A relationship between the galvanic and the corrosion current densities was obtained and the limiting values of the Igal, indicative of the state condition of the reinforcing steel for the designed sensor, were established. PMID:22291514

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hayashinaka, Takahiro; Department of Physics, Graduate School of Science,The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-0033; Yokoyama, Jun’ichi

The covariant and gauge invariant calculation of the current expectation value in the homogeneous electric field in 1+3 dimensional de Sitter spacetime is shown. The result accords with previous work obtained by using adiabatic subtraction scheme. We therefore conclude the counterintuitive behaviors of the current in the infrared (IR) regime such as IR hyperconductivity and negative current are not artifacts of the renormalization scheme, but are real IR effects of the spacetime.

Is it time to reassess current safety standards for glyphosate-based herbicides?

PubMed Central

Blumberg, Bruce; Antoniou, Michael N; Benbrook, Charles M; Carroll, Lynn; Colborn, Theo; Everett, Lorne G; Hansen, Michael; Landrigan, Philip J; Lanphear, Bruce P; Mesnage, Robin; vom Saal, Frederick S; Welshons, Wade V; Myers, John Peterson

2017-01-01

Use of glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) increased ∼100-fold from 1974 to 2014. Additional increases are expected due to widespread emergence of glyphosate-resistant weeds, increased application of GBHs, and preharvest uses of GBHs as desiccants. Current safety assessments rely heavily on studies conducted over 30 years ago. We have considered information on GBH use, exposures, mechanisms of action, toxicity and epidemiology. Human exposures to glyphosate are rising, and a number of in vitro and in vivo studies challenge the basis for the current safety assessment of glyphosate and GBHs. We conclude that current safety standards for GBHs are outdated and may fail to protect public health or the environment. To improve safety standards, the following are urgently needed: (1) human biomonitoring for glyphosate and its metabolites; (2) prioritisation of glyphosate and GBHs for hazard assessments, including toxicological studies that use state-of-the-art approaches; (3) epidemiological studies, especially of occupationally exposed agricultural workers, pregnant women and their children and (4) evaluations of GBHs in commercially used formulations, recognising that herbicide mixtures likely have effects that are not predicted by studying glyphosate alone. PMID:28320775

Marine current energy conversion: the dawn of a new era in electricity production.

PubMed

Bahaj, AbuBakr S

2013-02-28

Marine currents can carry large amounts of energy, largely driven by the tides, which are a consequence of the gravitational effects of the planetary motion of the Earth, the Moon and the Sun. Augmented flow velocities can be found where the underwater topography (bathymetry) in straits between islands and the mainland or in shallows around headlands plays a major role in enhancing the flow velocities, resulting in appreciable kinetic energy. At some of these sites where practical flows are more than 1 m s(-1), marine current energy conversion is considered to be economically viable. This study describes the salient issues related to the exploitation of marine currents for electricity production, resource assessment, the conversion technologies and the status of leading projects in the field. This study also summarizes important issues related to site development and some of the approaches currently being undertaken to inform device and array development. This study concludes that, given the highlighted commitments to establish favourable regulatory and incentive regimes as well as the aspiration for energy independence and combating climate change, the progress to multi-megawatt arrays will be much faster than that achieved for wind energy development.

Current Developments and Prospects for the Future: French Security Policy in a Changing World

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-06-01

GROUP SUBGROUP France , French Security Policy, Franco-German relations, NATO, French economy, Charles do Gaulle, Francois Mitterrand, European Community...concludes that the Gaullist myth of grandeur and independence can no longer be sustained . French security must now be achieved by strengthening ties...Gaulle. The thesis concludes that the Gaullist myth of grandeur and independence can no longer be sustained . French security must now be achieved by

The Energy Puzzle Between the United States and China

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-03-01

information if it does not display a currently valid OMB control number. PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR FORM TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS. 1. REPORT DATE (DD-MM...development, energy growth and developments in energy technology. It concludes with the best case scenario of the two countries building a trust that...development, energy growth and developments in energy technology. It concludes with the best case scenario of the two countries building a trust that will

Some properties of human neuronal alpha 7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors fused to the green fluorescent protein.

PubMed

Palma, Eleonora; Mileo, Anna M; Martinez-Torres, Ataulfo; Eusebi, Fabrizio; Miledi, Ricardo

2002-03-19

The functional properties and cellular localization of the human neuronal alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine (AcCho) receptor (alpha7 AcChoR) and its L248T mutated (mut) form were investigated by expressing them alone or as gene fusions with the enhanced version of the green fluorescent protein (GFP). Xenopus oocytes injected with wild-type (wt), mutalpha7, or the chimeric subunit cDNAs expressed receptors that gated membrane currents when exposed to AcCho. As already known, AcCho currents generated by wtalpha7 receptors decay much faster than those elicited by the mutalpha7 receptors. Unexpectedly, the fusion of GFP to the wt and mutated alpha7 receptors led to opposite results: the AcCho-current decay of the wt receptors became slower, whereas that of the mutated receptors was accelerated. Furthermore, repetitive applications of AcCho led to a considerable "run-down" of the AcCho currents generated by mutalpha7-GFP receptors, whereas those of the wtalpha7-GFP receptors remained stable or increased in amplitude. The AcCho-current run-down of mutalpha7-GFP oocytes was accompanied by a marked decrease of alpha-bungarotoxin binding activity. Fluorescence, caused by the chimeric receptors expressed, was seen over the whole oocyte surface but was more intense and abundant in the animal hemisphere, whereas it was much weaker in the vegetal hemisphere. We conclude that fusion of GFP to wtalpha7 and mutalpha7 receptors provides powerful tools to study the distribution and function of alpha7 receptors. We also conclude that fused genes do not necessarily recapitulate all of the properties of the original receptors. This fact must be borne close in mind whenever reporter genes are attached to proteins.

The influence of electrolyte additives on the anodic dissolution of aluminum in alkaline solutions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boehnstedt, W.

1980-09-01

The paper describes the effect of electrolyte additives on the anodic dissolution of aluminum in alkaline solutions. The dissolution is accelerated by the addition of small quantities of gallium or indium ions to the electrolyte indicated by the shift of the zero current potential by about 250 mV on the current-potential curve. Scanning electron microscope studies showed that gallium ions produce many small cracks in the aluminum electrode and collect at the grain boundary areas, increasing the electrode surface; this enlargement, in combination with increased electrolyte agitation due to greater hydrogen evolution, provides higher current densities at the same potential. It is concluded that this process will widen the possibilities of using aluminum and its alloys in high-rate batteries.

An Astrophysical Laboratory: Understanding and Exploiting the Young Massive Cluster Westerlund 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clark, S.; Negueruela, I.; Ritchie, B.; Najarro, P.; Langer, N.; Crowther, P.; Bartlett, L.; Fenech, D.; González-Fernández, C.; Goodwin, S.; Lohr, M.; Prinja, R.

2015-03-01

Westerlund 1 provides a unique opportunity to probe the physics of massive stars, from birth to death and beyond, as well as the formation and evolution of a super star cluster that appears destined to evolve into a globular cluster. We highlight the result of current studies of this cluster, its diverse stellar constituents and immediate environment, concluding with a summary of future research avenues enabled by ESO facilities.

Recruiters, Advertising, and Navy Enlistments,

DTIC Science & Technology

1979-10-01

product markets have concluded that advertising increases demand in current and future periods, but its effects decline over time (see reference 2). A study...Apr 1979 2. Clarke, D.G., "Econometric Measurement of the Duration of Advertising Effect on Sales," Journal of Marketing Research, Nov 1976, pp. 345...7AD-AOA6201 CENTER FOR NAVAL ANALYSES ALEXANDRIA VA INST OF NAVAL--ETC F/6 5/9 I RECRUITERS, ADVERTISING , AND NAVY ENLISTMENTS. (U) IOCT 79 L

A ground based phase control system for the solar power satellite, volume 4

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chie, C. M.

1980-01-01

A ground phase control system is studied as an alternative approach to the current reference retrodirective phase control system in order to simplify the spaceborne hardware requirement. Based on waveform selections, functional subsystems to implement the ground-based phase control concept are identified and functionally represented. It was concluded that the feasibility of the concept becomes unclear if the conditions of the ionosphere and satellite motion are not met.

The Economic Effects of Comprehensive Tax Reform

DTIC Science & Technology

1997-07-01

and household level in a coordi- investment takes place but also the mix of investment nated manner. A separate corporate income tax ap- in different...have studied the effects of assets. As another example, allowances for deprecia- the corporate income tax have concluded that it carries tion do not...types equal to over one-half of the tax revenues collected of investments more quickly than others. The result of from the corporate income tax .4 current

Foetal electrocardiograph (ST-analyser or STAN) for intrapartum foetal heart rate monitoring: a friend or a foe?

PubMed

Chandraharan, Edwin

2018-01-01

Cardiotocograph (CTG) is associated with a high false positive rate of up to 60% which may increase the risk of unnecessary intrapartum interventions (emergency caesarean sections or operative vaginal deliveries) without any significant benefits. A recent study on variation of caesarean section rates in England has concluded that there was a very wide variation even in the adjusted rates of caesarean section from 14.9% to 32.1%. Cochrane Systematic Reviews have concluded that the use of FBS does not reduce caesarean section rate or any pre-specified neonatal outcomes. Fetal ECG (ST-Analyser or STAN) has been used in the clinical practice for more than 20 years. Although, initial randomised controlled trials (RCTs) showed great promise regarding the role of STAN in reducing operative delivery rates (instrumental vaginal births and emergency caesarean sections) and neonatal metabolic acidosis, subsequent studies have questioned the role of STAN in clinical practice. A recent meta-analysis which included six randomised controlled trials (a total of 26,446 women) has concluded that there was a 36% reduction in the rate of neonatal metabolic acidosis. Practising clinicians currently face a dilemma as to whether STAN has a place in contemporary obstetric practice or whether it?s use should be discouraged and discontinued.

Evaluation of neurofeedback in ADHD: the long and winding road.

PubMed

Arns, Martijn; Heinrich, Hartmut; Strehl, Ute

2014-01-01

Among the clinical applications of neurofeedback, most research has been conducted in ADHD. As an introduction a short overview of the general history of neurofeedback will be given, while the main part of the paper deals with a review of the current state of neurofeedback in ADHD. A meta-analysis on neurofeedback from 2009 found large effect sizes for inattention and impulsivity and medium effects sizes for hyperactivity. Since 2009 several new studies, including 4 placebo-controlled studies, have been published. These latest studies are reviewed and discussed in more detail. The review focuses on studies employing (1) semi-active, (2) active, and (3) placebo-control groups. The assessment of specificity of neurofeedback treatment in ADHD is discussed and it is concluded that standard protocols such as theta/beta, SMR and slow cortical potentials neurofeedback are well investigated and have demonstrated specificity. The paper ends with an outlook on future questions and tasks. It is concluded that future controlled clinical trials should, in a next step, focus on such known protocols, and be designed along the lines of learning theory. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Evolution of quantitative methods for the study and management of avian populations: on the importance of individual contributions

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nichols, J.D.

2004-01-01

The EURING meetings and the scientists who have attended them have contributed substantially to the growth of knowledge in the field of estimating parameters of animal populations. The contributions of David R. Anderson to process modeling, parameter estimation and decision analysis are briefly reviewed. Metrics are considered for assessing individual contributions to a field of inquiry, and it is concluded that Anderson’s contributions have been substantial. Important characteristics of Anderson and his career are the ability to identify and focus on important topics, the premium placed on dissemination of new methods to prospective users, the ability to assemble teams of complementary researchers, and the innovation and vision that characterized so much of his work. The paper concludes with a list of interesting current research topics for consideration by EURING participants.

Will Robots Ever Replace Attendants? Exploring the Current Capabilities and Future Potential of Robots in Education and Rehabilitation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lees, David; LePage, Pamela

1994-01-01

This article describes the current capabilities and future potential of robots designed as supplements or replacements for human assistants or as tools for education and rehabilitation of people with disabilities. Review of robots providing educational, vocational, or independent living assistance concludes that eventually effective, reliable…

RPA Assessment of Outdoor Recreation: Past, Current, and Future Directions

Treesearch

John C. Bergstrom; H. Ken Cordell

1994-01-01

In this paper, the outdoor recreation sections of the Renewable Resource Planning Act (RPA) Assessments conducted to date are reviewed. Current policy and mangement applications of the outsdoor recreation results published in 1989 Assessment are discussed also. The paper concludes with suggestions for the assemssment of outdoor recreation in future RPA Assessements...

Gender Similarities Still Rule

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hyde, Janet Shibley

2006-01-01

Replies to comments made by Archer (see record 2006-11202-012), Lippa (see record 2006-11202-013), and Davies and Shackelford (see record 2006-11202-014) on the current author's original article (see record 2005-11115-001). The current author addresses the criticisms put forth by each of these commenting authors, and concludes that the best…

Factors associated with suicidal ideations and suicidal attempts in patients with obsessive compulsive disorder.

PubMed

Gupta, Gourav; Avasthi, Ajit; Grover, Sandeep; Singh, Shubh Mohan

2014-12-01

Aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of suicidal ideations (SI) and to study the risk factors for SI and suicide attempt in patients with OCD. One hundred and thirty patients with OCD were assessed on Yale-Brown Obsessive–Compulsive Scale and Symptom Checklist, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Hopelessness Scale, Beck Anxiety Inventory, State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, Buss–Durkee Hostility Inventory, Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, Family Interview for Genetic Studies, Brown Assessment of Beliefs Scale and DSM-IV insight criteria for OCD. Of the 130 patients, 60 (46.1%) had current SI and 81 (62.3%) patients had life time SI. Of the 60 patients with current SI, 30 had current depression as assessed on SCID-CV. More than half (48 out of 81; 59.25%) of the patients with lifetime SI had lifetime comorbid depression. Ten patients had history of lifetime suicide attempts. Current SI in patients without current depression were associated with female gender, presence of comorbid psychiatric illness, contamination obsessions and cleaning/washing compulsions. To conclude this study suggests that SI are highly prevalent in patients with OCD and although depression may be a contributory factor for suicidal ideations in patients with OCD, but it is not the sole risk factor for suicidal ideations.

Screening for breast cancer: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement.

PubMed

2009-11-17

Update of the 2002 U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommendation statement on screening for breast cancer in the general population. The USPSTF examined the evidence on the efficacy of 5 screening modalities in reducing mortality from breast cancer: film mammography, clinical breast examination, breast self-examination, digital mammography, and magnetic resonance imaging in order to update the 2002 recommendation. To accomplish this update, the USPSTF commissioned 2 studies: 1) a targeted systematic evidence review of 6 selected questions relating to benefits and harms of screening, and 2) a decision analysis that used population modeling techniques to compare the expected health outcomes and resource requirements of starting and ending mammography screening at different ages and using annual versus biennial screening intervals. The USPSTF recommends against routine screening mammography in women aged 40 to 49 years. The decision to start regular, biennial screening mammography before the age of 50 years should be an individual one and take into account patient context, including the patient's values regarding specific benefits and harms. (Grade C recommendation) The USPSTF recommends biennial screening mammography for women between the ages of 50 and 74 years. (Grade B recommendation) The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the additional benefits and harms of screening mammography in women 75 years or older. (I statement) The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the additional benefits and harms of clinical breast examination beyond screening mammography in women 40 years or older. (I statement) The USPSTF recommends against clinicians teaching women how to perform breast self-examination. (Grade D recommendation) The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess additional benefits and harms of either digital mammography or magnetic resonance imaging instead of film mammography as screening modalities for breast cancer. (I statement).

Quantifying Drosophila food intake: comparative analysis of current methodology

PubMed Central

Deshpande, Sonali A.; Carvalho, Gil B.; Amador, Ariadna; Phillips, Angela M.; Hoxha, Sany; Lizotte, Keith J.; Ja, William W.

2014-01-01

Food intake is a fundamental parameter in animal studies. Despite the prevalent use of Drosophila in laboratory research, precise measurements of food intake remain challenging in this model organism. Here, we compare several common Drosophila feeding assays: the Capillary Feeder (CAFE), food-labeling with a radioactive tracer or a colorimetric dye, and observations of proboscis extension (PE). We show that the CAFE and radioisotope-labeling provide the most consistent results, have the highest sensitivity, and can resolve differences in feeding that dye-labeling and PE fail to distinguish. We conclude that performing the radiolabeling and CAFE assays in parallel is currently the best approach for quantifying Drosophila food intake. Understanding the strengths and limitations of food intake methodology will greatly advance Drosophila studies of nutrition, behavior, and disease. PMID:24681694

[Gender theory and politics: historical fragments and current challenges].

PubMed

Meyer, Dagmar Estermann

2004-01-01

This text approaches contemporary gender theories and politics focusing on the tensions permeating these theories. It briefly revisits historical aspects to introduce an understanding of the to the concept of gender in the field of Feminist Studies, and discusses the theoretical and political developments associated with its use. It presents some results from investigations that make the positions of the subject of woman, and particularly the subject of mother, problematic in discourses running through current health and education policies and programs. It concludes by suggesting that studies relating gender, health and education from this perspective contribute to understanding and outlining power structures that come into play with certain educational emphases, knowledge, diagnostic instruments, and ways of assisting and educating women, men and children in these areas today.

Measurements on wave propagation characteristics of spiraling electron beams

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singh, A.; Getty, W. D.

1976-01-01

Dispersion characteristics of cyclotron-harmonic waves propagating on a neutralized spiraling electron beam immersed in a uniform axial magnetic field are studied experimentally. The experimental setup consisted of a vacuum system, an electron-gun corkscrew assembly which produces a 110-eV beam with the desired delta-function velocity distribution, a measurement region where a microwave signal is injected onto the beam to measure wavelengths, and a velocity analyzer for measuring the axial electron velocity. Results of wavelength measurements made at beam currents of 0.15, 1.0, and 2.0 mA are compared with calculated values, and undesirable effects produced by increasing the beam current are discussed. It is concluded that a suitable electron beam for studies of cyclotron-harmonic waves can be generated by the corkscrew device.

The Review on Properties of Aloe Vera in Healing of Cutaneous Wounds

PubMed Central

Hashemi, Seyyed Abbas; Madani, Seyyed Abdollah; Abediankenari, Saied

2015-01-01

Treatment of wounds is very important and was subject of different investigations. In this regard, natural substance plays crucial role as complementary medicine. Various studies reported that aloe vera has useful effects on wounds especially cutaneous wounds healing. Therefore in the current review, we examined the effect of aloe vera on cutaneous wound healing and concluded that although aloe vera improves the wound healing as well as other procedures both clinically and experimentally, more studies are still needed to approve the outcomes. PMID:26090436

Experience with a commercial preparation of 125I-labelled human albumin for study of albumin metabolism

PubMed Central

Ballantyne, Fiona C.; Fleck, A.

1973-01-01

Evaluation of a commercial preparation of 125I-labelled albumin for use in the study of albumin metabolism is described. In eight subjects with normal albumin metabolism the proportion of the dose of radioiodide excreted was stable throughout a period of 17 days, indicating that there was no excessive denaturation of the iodinated albumin. Characteristics of albumin metabolism—pool sizes, catabolic rate, etc—were in agreement with currently accepted normal values. It is concluded that this preparation of iodinated albumin is suitable for metabolic use. PMID:4727059

Current Capabilities, Requirements and a Proposed Strategy for Interdependency Analysis in the UK

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bloomfield, Robin; Chozos, Nick; Salako, Kizito

The UK government recently commissioned a research study to identify the state-of-the-art in Critical Infrastructure modelling and analysis, and the government/industry requirements for such tools and services. This study (Cetifs) concluded with a strategy aiming to bridge the gaps between the capabilities and requirements, which would establish interdependency analysis as a commercially viable service in the near future. This paper presents the findings of this study that was carried out by CSR, City University London, Adelard LLP, a safety/security consultancy and Cranfield University, defense academy of the UK.

High-Temperature Superconductors as Electromagnetic Deployment and Support Structures in Spacecraft. [NASA NIAC Phase I

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Getliffe, Gwendolyn V.; Inamdar, Niraj K.; Masterson, Rebecca; Miller, David W.

2012-01-01

This report, concluding a one-year NIAC Phase I study, describes a new structural and mechanical technique aimed at reducing the mass and increasing the deployed-to-stowed length and volume ratios of spacecraft systems. This technique uses the magnetic fields generated by electrical current passing through coils of high-temperature superconductors (HTSs) to support spacecraft structures and deploy them to operational configurations from their stowed positions inside a launch vehicle fairing.

Modes of independence while informal caregiving.

PubMed

Tellioğlu, Hilda; Hensely-Schinkinger, Susanne; Pinatti De Carvalho, Aparecido Fabiano

2015-01-01

This paper is about understanding and conceptualizing the notion of independence in the context of caregiving. Based on the current studies and on our ethnographic and design research in an AAL project (TOPIC) we introduce a model of independence consisting of four dimensions: action, finance, decision, and emotion. These interrelated dimensions are described and discussed in the setting of informal caregiving. Some additional examples are shown to illustrate how to reduce the dependence of informal caregivers before concluding the paper.

Perspectives on energy storage wheels for space station application

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Oglevie, R. E.

1984-01-01

Several of the issues of the workshop are addressed from the perspective of a potential Space Station developer and energy wheel user. Systems' considerations are emphasized rather than component technology. The potential of energy storage wheel (ESW) concept is discussed. The current status of the technology base is described. Justification for advanced technology development is also discussed. The study concludes that energy storage in wheels is an attractive concept for immediate technology development and future Space Station application.

Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste-Tree/Berry) in the treatment of menopause-related complaints.

PubMed

van Die, Margaret Diana; Burger, Henry G; Teede, Helena J; Bone, Kerry M

2009-08-01

The origin of the current practice of administering Vitex agnus-castus in menopause-related complaints is uncertain, but appears to be relatively recent. Here we review the evidence for this application of Vitex based on evidence from pharmacological studies and clinical research. The mechanisms of potential relevance in the context of menopause are explored with reference to the current understanding of the endocrinology and neuroendocrinology of menopause and associated symptoms. We conclude that, while evidence from rigorous randomized controlled trials is lacking for the individual herb in this context, emerging pharmacological evidence supports a role for V. agnus-castus in the alleviation of menopausal symptoms and suggests that further investigation may be appropriate.

The Rhetorical Primate

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dance, Frank E. X.

1977-01-01

Reviews various current experimental attempts to induce a form of human language in chimpanzees and concludes that research results indicate that only Homo Sapiens are capable of mastering human forms of communication. (MH)

Application of Magnetic Suspension and Balance Systems to Ultra-High Reynolds Number Facilities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Britcher, Colin P.

1996-01-01

The current status of wind tunnel magnetic suspension and balance system development is briefly reviewed. Technical work currently underway at NASA Langley Research Center is detailed, where it relates to the ultra-high Reynolds number application. The application itself is addressed, concluded to be quite feasible, and broad design recommendations given.

0.4971 and All That--Is There Life after the Calculator?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mitchell, Peter

1997-01-01

Assesses the status and use of the hand-held calculator in the current school curriculum. Comments on current proposals to restrict its use in the examination room at A-level. Concludes that at the stage of A-level mathematics, calculations that are not practicable without calculating aids cannot be avoided without indefensible contrivance.…

Bursting at the Seams: Report of the Citizens' Commission on Planning for Enrollment Growth.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fernandez, Ricardo R.; Timpane, P. Michael

The independent Citizens' Commission on Planning for Enrollment Growth for New York City has concluded that the school system is experiencing explosive enrollment growth, and that current strategies are incapable of dealing with this growth. The only way to forestall a crisis is to increase classroom space significantly. Given current demographic…

Exploring Faraday's Law of Electrolysis Using Zinc-Air Batteries with Current Regulative Diodes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kamata, Masahiro; Paku, Miei

2007-01-01

Current regulative diodes (CRDs) are applied to develop new educational experiments on Faraday's law by using a zinc-air battery (PR2330) and a resistor to discharge it. The results concluded that the combination of zinc-air batteries and the CRD array is simpler, less expensive, and quantitative and gives accurate data.

Calorie postings in chain restaurants in a low-income urban neighborhood: measuring practical utility and policy compliance.

PubMed

Cohn, Elizabeth Gross; Larson, Elaine L; Araujo, Christina; Sawyer, Vanessa; Williams, Olajide

2012-08-01

Current strategies for combating obesity include recent federal legislation mandating calorie count postings in chain restaurants. This study describes the current practice of menu board calorie postings in a low-income urban neighborhood, identifies the extent to which current practice complies with existing policy, and evaluates the practical utility of menu boards to consumers. We conclude that although most postings were legally compliant, they did not demonstrate utility. Menu postings for individual servings are easily understood, but complex math skills are needed to interpret meals designed to serve more than one person. In some items, calories doubled depending on flavor and the calorie posting did not give enough information to make healthier selections. We identified specific strategies to improve practical utility and provide recommendations for policy implementation.

Surface structure of bulk 2H-MoS2(0001) and exfoliated suspended monolayer MoS2: A selected area low energy electron diffraction study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dai, Zhongwei; Jin, Wencan; Grady, Maxwell; Sadowski, Jerzy T.; Dadap, Jerry I.; Osgood, Richard M.; Pohl, Karsten

2017-06-01

We have used selected area low energy electron diffraction intensity-voltage (μLEED-IV) analysis to investigate the surface structure of crystalline 2H molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and mechanically exfoliated and suspended monolayer MoS2. Our results show that the surface structure of bulk 2H-MoS2 is distinct from its bulk and that it has a slightly smaller surface relaxation at 320 K than previously reported at 95 K. We concluded that suspended monolayer MoS2 shows a large interlayer relaxation compared to the MoS2 sandwich layer terminating the bulk surface. The Debye temperature of MoS2 was concluded to be about 600 K, which agrees with a previous theoretical study. Our work has shown that the dynamical μLEED-IV analysis performed with a low energy electron microscope (LEEM) is a powerful technique for determination of the local atomic structures of currently extensively studied two-dimensional (2-D) materials.

Surface structure of bulk 2H-MoS 2 (0001) and exfoliated suspended monolayer MoS 2 : A selected area low energy electron diffraction study

DOE PAGES

Dai, Zhongwei; Jin, Wencan; Grady, Maxwell; ...

2017-02-10

Here, we used selected area low energy electron diffraction intensity-voltage (μLEED-IV) analysis to investigate the surface structure of crystalline 2H molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2) and mechanically exfoliated and suspended monolayer MoS 2. Our results show that the surface structure of bulk 2H-MoS 2 is distinct from its bulk and that it has a slightly smaller surface relaxation at 320 K than previously reported at 95 K. We concluded that suspended monolayer MoS 2 shows a large interlayer relaxation compared to the MoS 2 sandwich layer terminating the bulk surface. The Debye temperature of MoS 2 was concluded to be aboutmore » 600 K, which agrees with a previous theoretical study. Our work has shown that the dynamical μLEED-IV analysis performed with a low energy electron microscope (LEEM) is a powerful technique for determination of the local atomic structures of currently extensively studied two-dimensional (2-D) materials.« less

Is there consistency and specificity of autonomic changes during emotional episodes? Guidance from the conceptual act theory and psychophysiology

PubMed Central

Quigley, Karen S.; Barrett, Lisa Feldman

2014-01-01

The consistency and specificity of autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses during emotional episodes remains a topic of debate with relevance for emotional concordance. We present a recent model of how mental states are constructed, the Conceptual Act Theory (CAT), and then review findings from existing meta-analyses and a qualitative review along with studies using pattern classification of multivariate ANS patterns to determine if there is across-study evidence for consistency and specificity of ANS responses during emotional episodes. We conclude that there is thus far minimal evidence for ANS response consistency and specificity across studies. We then review the current understanding of the functional and anatomical features of ANS including its efferent and afferent connections with the central nervous system, which suggests the need to reformulate how we conceptualize ANS response consistency and specificity. We conclude by showing how this reformulation is consistent with the CAT, and how we suggest the model to propose when we would and would not expect to see consistency and specificity in ANS responses, and concordance more generally, during emotional episodes. PMID:24388802

How Important Is Research on Pollution Levels in Antarctica? Historical Approach, Difficulties and Current Trends.

PubMed

Szopińska, Małgorzata; Namieśnik, Jacek; Polkowska, Żaneta

Despite the fact that Antarctica is a continent notably free from large negative impact of human activities, literature data can be the basis for concluding that this is not an area free from anthropogenic pollutants. Pollutants, which are identified in various elements of the environment of Antarctica, are mostly connected with long-range atmospheric transport (LRAT) and deposition in this area. The study presents: a historical overview of research pertaining to the presence of pollutants in entire Antarctica; a description of the development of research on pollutants in various environmental samples conducted in this area since 1960; a detailed description of contemporary analytical research (2000-2014); information on concentration levels of a broad range of pollutants present in various elements of the environment. The data collected can provide grounds for concluding that pollutants present in this area can contribute to gradual degradation of Antarctic ecosystem.

Barrett oesophagus: lessons on its origins from the lesion itself.

PubMed

McDonald, Stuart A C; Lavery, Danielle; Wright, Nicholas A; Jansen, Marnix

2015-01-01

Barrett oesophagus develops when the lower oesophageal squamous epithelium is replaced with columnar epithelium, which shows both intestinal and gastric differentiation. No consensus has been reached on the origin of Barrett oesophagus. Theories include a direct origin from the oesophageal-stratified squamous epithelium, or by proximal migration of the gastric cardiac epithelium with subsequent intestinalization. Variations of this theory suggest the origin is a distinctive cell at the squamocolumnar junction, the oesophageal gland ducts, or circulating bone-marrow-derived cells. Much of the supporting evidence comes from experimental models and not from studies of Barrett mucosa. In this Perspectives article, we look at the Barrett lesion itself: at its phenotype, its complexity, its clonal architecture and its stem cell organization. We conclude that Barrett glands are unique structures, but share many similarities with gastric glands undergoing the process of intestinal metaplasia. We conclude that current evidence most strongly supports an origin from stem cells in the cardia.

Is it time to reassess current safety standards for glyphosate-based herbicides?

PubMed

Vandenberg, Laura N; Blumberg, Bruce; Antoniou, Michael N; Benbrook, Charles M; Carroll, Lynn; Colborn, Theo; Everett, Lorne G; Hansen, Michael; Landrigan, Philip J; Lanphear, Bruce P; Mesnage, Robin; Vom Saal, Frederick S; Welshons, Wade V; Myers, John Peterson

2017-06-01

Use of glyphosate-based herbicides (GBHs) increased ∼100-fold from 1974 to 2014. Additional increases are expected due to widespread emergence of glyphosate-resistant weeds, increased application of GBHs, and preharvest uses of GBHs as desiccants. Current safety assessments rely heavily on studies conducted over 30 years ago. We have considered information on GBH use, exposures, mechanisms of action, toxicity and epidemiology. Human exposures to glyphosate are rising, and a number of in vitro and in vivo studies challenge the basis for the current safety assessment of glyphosate and GBHs. We conclude that current safety standards for GBHs are outdated and may fail to protect public health or the environment. To improve safety standards, the following are urgently needed: (1) human biomonitoring for glyphosate and its metabolites; (2) prioritisation of glyphosate and GBHs for hazard assessments, including toxicological studies that use state-of-the-art approaches; (3) epidemiological studies, especially of occupationally exposed agricultural workers, pregnant women and their children and (4) evaluations of GBHs in commercially used formulations, recognising that herbicide mixtures likely have effects that are not predicted by studying glyphosate alone. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/.

An Assessment of Aerocapture and Applications to Future Missions to Uranus and Neptune

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Beauchamp, P. M.; Spilker, T. R.

2017-12-01

Our investigation examined the current state of readiness of aerocapture at several destinations of interest, including Uranus and Neptune, to identify what technologies are needed, and to determine if a technology demonstration mission is required, prior to the first use of aerocapture for a science mission. The study team concluded that the current state of readiness is destination dependent, with aerocaptured missions feasible at Venus, Mars, and Titan with current technologies. The use of aerocapture for orbit insertion at the ice giant planets Uranus and Neptune requires at least additional study to assess the expected performance of new guidance, navigation, and control algorithms, and possible development of new hardware, such as a mid-L/D entry vehicle shape or new thermal protection system materials. A variety of near-term activities could contribute to risk reduction for missions proposing use of aerocapture, but a system-level technology demonstration mission is not deemed necessary before the use of aerocapture for a NASA science mission.

P-type calcium channels in rat neocortical neurones.

PubMed Central

Brown, A M; Sayer, R J; Schwindt, P C; Crill, W E

1994-01-01

1. The high threshold, voltage-activated (HVA) calcium current was recorded from acutely isolated rat neocortical pyramidal neurones using the whole-cell patch technique to examine the effect of agents that block P-type calcium channels and to compare their effects to those of omega-conotoxin GVIA (omega-CgTX) and nifedipine. 2. When applied at a saturating concentration (100 nM) the peptide toxins omega-Aga-IVA and synthetic omega-Aga-IVA blocked 31.5 and 33.0% of the HVA current respectively. 3. A saturating concentration of nifedipine (10 microM) inhibited 48.2% of the omega-Aga-IVA-sensitive current, whereas saturating concentrations of both omega-Aga-IVA (100 nM) and omega-CgTX (10 microM) blocked separate specific components of the HVA current. 4. Partially purified funnel web spider toxin (FTX) at a dilution of 1:1000 blocked 81.4% of the HVA current and occluded the inhibitory effect of omega-Aga-IVA. Synthetic FTX 3.3 arginine polyamine (sFTX) at a concentration of 1 mM blocked 61.2% of the HVA current rapidly and reversibly. The effects of sFTX were partially occluded by pre-application of omega-Aga-IVA. We conclude that neither FTX nor sFTX blocked a specific component of the HVA current in these cells. 5. In view of the specificity of omega-Aga-IVA for P-type calcium channels in other preparations and for a specific component of the HVA current in dissociated neocortical neurones we conclude that about 30% of the HVA current in these neurones flow through P-channels. PMID:7517449

P-type calcium channels in rat neocortical neurones.

PubMed

Brown, A M; Sayer, R J; Schwindt, P C; Crill, W E

1994-03-01

1. The high threshold, voltage-activated (HVA) calcium current was recorded from acutely isolated rat neocortical pyramidal neurones using the whole-cell patch technique to examine the effect of agents that block P-type calcium channels and to compare their effects to those of omega-conotoxin GVIA (omega-CgTX) and nifedipine. 2. When applied at a saturating concentration (100 nM) the peptide toxins omega-Aga-IVA and synthetic omega-Aga-IVA blocked 31.5 and 33.0% of the HVA current respectively. 3. A saturating concentration of nifedipine (10 microM) inhibited 48.2% of the omega-Aga-IVA-sensitive current, whereas saturating concentrations of both omega-Aga-IVA (100 nM) and omega-CgTX (10 microM) blocked separate specific components of the HVA current. 4. Partially purified funnel web spider toxin (FTX) at a dilution of 1:1000 blocked 81.4% of the HVA current and occluded the inhibitory effect of omega-Aga-IVA. Synthetic FTX 3.3 arginine polyamine (sFTX) at a concentration of 1 mM blocked 61.2% of the HVA current rapidly and reversibly. The effects of sFTX were partially occluded by pre-application of omega-Aga-IVA. We conclude that neither FTX nor sFTX blocked a specific component of the HVA current in these cells. 5. In view of the specificity of omega-Aga-IVA for P-type calcium channels in other preparations and for a specific component of the HVA current in dissociated neocortical neurones we conclude that about 30% of the HVA current in these neurones flow through P-channels.

The Origin of the Tsushima Warm Current in a High Resolution Model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Park, Y.; Yeh, S.; Hwang, J.

2008-12-01

Using a high resolution global ocean circulation model results, the present study investigates the origin of the Tsushima Warm Current and related East China Sea Circulation. The simulated Tsushima Warm Current is weaker than the observations by about 30 %, but the persistence of the Taiwan-Tsushima Current System shows that the Taiwan Warm Current is the main source of the Tsushima Warm Current. The high resolution model results allow us to distinguish the Kuroshio intrusion north of Taiwan and west of Kyushu from the Taiwan-Tsushima Current System. West of Kyushu the onshore intrusion of the Kuroshio is strong between September and February, and north of Taiwan between June and November. The annual mean strength of the intrusion is 0.32 Sv west of Kyushu, and 0.22 Sv north of Taiwan. Since the simulated Tsushima Warm Current is weaker than the observation while that of the Taiwan Current is comparable to the observations, the strength of the intrusion is weaker than the reality. In addition, a linear relation is found between the transport of the Tsushima Warm Current and the sea level difference between the Korea/Tsushima Strait and the Tsugaru/Soya Straits, and we can conclude that the sea level difference is the main driving force of the current.

Seasonal dependence of large-scale Birkeland currents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fujii, R.; Iijima, T.; Potemra, T. A.; Sugiura, M.

1981-01-01

Seasonal variations of large-scale Birkeland currents are examined in a study of the source mechanisms and the closure of the three-dimensional current systems in the ionosphere. Vector magnetic field data acquired by the TRIAD satellite in the Northern Hemisphere were analyzed for the statistics of single sheet and double sheet Birkeland currents during 555 passes during the summer and 408 passes during the winter. The single sheet currents are observed more frequently in the dayside of the auroral zone, and more often in summer than in winter. The intensities of both the single and double dayside currents are found to be greater in the summer than in the winter by a factor of two, while the intensities of the double sheet Birkeland currents on the nightside do not show a significant difference from summer to winter. Both the single and double sheet currents are found at higher latitudes in the summer than in the winter on the dayside. Results suggest that the Birkeland current intensities are controlled by the ionospheric conductivity in the polar region, and that the currents close via the polar cap when the conductivity there is sufficiently high. It is also concluded that an important source of these currents must be a voltage generator in the magnetosphere.

Mechanism of Small Current Generation under Impulse Voltage Applications in Vacuum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aoki, Keita; Yasukawa, Hideaki; Kojima, Hiroki; Homma, Mitsutaka; Shioiri, Tetsu; Okubo, Hitoshi

Small discharge not to accompany breakdown can occur under high electric field in vacuum, however the mechanism is not well clarified. We have found that the current of small discharge decreases with repeated voltage applications, and leads to electrode conditioning effect of raising withstand voltage. The inception of the current is delayed with the decrease of current, and the inception time and waveform change by gap length. On the other hand, under low vacuum condition, the current increases and reaches saturation with repeated voltage applications. From these discussions, we concluded that the generating process of small current depended on the adsorption and absorption gas of electrodes.

An International Perspective: The School as an Organization and Social Institution: Current Challenges

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Butler, Norman L.; Griffith, Kimberly Grantham; Kritsonis, William Allan

2007-01-01

This article is about the current challenges facing the school as an organization and social institution with respect to information technology. It is concluded that the school ought to educate broadly when preparing students for the workplace because we can not accurately predict what their needs will be due to rapid advances in technology.…

Spectral methods in edge-diffraction theories

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Arnold, J.M.

Spectral methods for the construction of uniform asymptotic representations of the field diffracted by an aperture in a plane screen are reviewed. These are separated into contrasting approaches, roughly described as physical and geometrical. It is concluded that the geometrical methods provide a direct route to the construction of uniform representations that are formally identical to the equivalent-edge-current concept. Some interpretive and analytical difficulties that complicate the physical methods of obtaining uniform representations are analyzed. Spectral synthesis proceeds directly from the ray geometry and diffraction coefficients, without any intervening current representation, and the representation is uniform at shadow boundaries andmore » caustics of the diffracted field. The physical theory of diffraction postulates currents on the diffracting screen that give rise to the diffracted field. The difficulties encountered in evaluating the current integrals are throughly examined, and it is concluded that the additional data provided by the physical theory of diffraction (diffraction coefficients off the Keller diffraction cone) are not actually required for obtaining uniform asymptotics at the leading order. A new diffraction representation that generalizes to arbitrary plane-convex apertures a formula given by Knott and Senior [Proc. IEEE 62, 1468 (1974)] for circular apertures is deduced. 34 refs., 1 fig.« less

Space Law and International Claimant Rights

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neumann, D. C.; Trach, N.; Mardon, A. A.

2016-09-01

The presentation undergoes an exploration of all current frameworks and ideas regarding the distribution of space among humanity. It concludes with the suggestion of a separate international council to amalgamate human effort for sustainable travel.

Local Dynamic Stability Associated with Load Carrying

PubMed Central

Lockhart, Thurmon E

2013-01-01

Objectives Load carrying tasks are recognized as one of the primary occupational factors leading to slip and fall injuries. Nevertheless, the mechanisms associated with load carrying and walking stability remain illusive. The objective of the current study was to apply local dynamic stability measure in walking while carrying a load, and to investigate the possible adaptive gait stability changes. Methods Current study involved 25 young adults in a biomechanics research laboratory. One tri-axial accelerometer was used to measure three-dimensional low back acceleration during continuous treadmill walking. Local dynamic stability was quantified by the maximum Lyapunov exponent (maxLE) from a nonlinear dynamics approach. Results Long term maxLE was found to be significant higher under load condition than no-load condition in all three reference axes, indicating the declined local dynamic stability associated with load carrying. Conclusion Current study confirmed the sensitivity of local dynamic stability measure in load carrying situation. It was concluded that load carrying tasks were associated with declined local dynamic stability, which may result in increased risk of fall accident. This finding has implications in preventing fall accidents associated with occupational load carrying. PMID:23515183

Non-invasive brain stimulation to investigate language production in healthy speakers: A meta-analysis.

PubMed

Klaus, Jana; Schutter, Dennis J L G

2018-06-01

Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) has become a common method to study the interrelations between the brain and language functioning. This meta-analysis examined the efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and direct current stimulation (tDCS) in the study of language production in healthy volunteers. Forty-five effect sizes from 30 studies which investigated the effects of NIBS on picture naming or verbal fluency in healthy participants were meta-analysed. Further sub-analyses investigated potential influences of stimulation type, control, target site, task, online vs. offline application, and current density of the target electrode. Random effects modelling showed a small, but reliable effect of NIBS on language production. Subsequent analyses indicated larger weighted mean effect sizes for TMS as compared to tDCS studies. No statistical differences for the other sub-analyses were observed. We conclude that NIBS is a useful method for neuroscientific studies on language production in healthy volunteers. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Bovine chromaffin cells possess FTX-sensitive calcium channels.

PubMed

Gandía, L; Albillos, A; García, A G

1993-07-30

The effects of the synthetic analogue of the toxin from the venom of the funnel-web spider Agenelopsis aperta (sFTX) on whole-cell Ba2+ currents through Ca2+ channels were studied in cultured bovine chromaffin cells. sFTX selectively and reversibly blocked a significant component (55 +/- 3%) of the whole-cell IBa. Effects of sFTX were additive to those of omega-conotoxin GVIA, a selective blocker of N-type Ca2+ channels, and those of furnidipine, a novel dihydropyridine L-type Ca2+ channel blocker. We conclude that the cultured bovine chromaffin cells, in addition to N- and L-type Ca2+ channels, possess a P-type component in their whole-cell currents through their Ca2+ channels.

Effect of New Physics in Astrophysical Neutrino Flavor.

PubMed

Argüelles, Carlos A; Katori, Teppei; Salvado, Jordi

2015-10-16

Astrophysical neutrinos are powerful tools for investigating the fundamental properties of particle physics through their flavor content. In this Letter, we perform the first general new physics study on ultrahigh energy neutrino flavor content by introducing effective operators. We find that, at the current limits on these operators, new physics terms cause maximal effects on the flavor content; however, the flavor content on the Earth is confined to a region related to the assumed initial flavor content. Furthermore, we conclude that a precise measure of the flavor content on the Earth will provide orders of magnitude improvement on new physics bounds. Finally, we discuss the current best fits of flavor content of the IceCube data and their interplay with new physics scenarios.

Calcium current in type I hair cells isolated from the semicircular canal crista ampullaris of the rat.

PubMed

Almanza, Angélica; Vega, Rosario; Soto, Enrique

2003-12-24

The low voltage gain in type I hair cells implies that neurotransmitter release at their afferent synapse should be mediated by low voltage activated calcium channels, or that some peculiar mechanism should be operating in this synapse. With the patch clamp technique, we studied the characteristics of the Ca(2+) current in type I hair cells enzymatically dissociated from rat semicircular canal crista ampullaris. Calcium current in type I hair cells exhibited a slow inactivation (during 2-s depolarizing steps), was sensitive to nimodipine and was blocked by Cd(2+) and Ni(2+). This current was activated at potentials above -60 mV, had a mean half maximal activation of -36 mV, and exhibited no steady-state inactivation at holding potentials between -100 and -60 mV. This data led us to conclude that hair cell Ca(2+) current is most likely of the L type. Thus, other mechanisms participating in neurotransmitter release such as K(+) accumulation in the synaptic cleft, modulation of K(+) currents by nitric oxide, participation of a Na(+) current and possible metabotropic cascades activated by depolarization should be considered.

Recent trends for practical rehabilitation robotics, current challenges and the future.

PubMed

Yakub, Fitri; Md Khudzari, Ahmad Zahran; Mori, Yasuchika

2014-03-01

This paper presents and studies various selected literature primarily from conference proceedings, journals and clinical tests of the robotic, mechatronics, neurology and biomedical engineering of rehabilitation robotic systems. The present paper focuses of three main categories: types of rehabilitation robots, key technologies with current issues and future challenges. Literature on fundamental research with some examples from commercialized robots and new robot development projects related to rehabilitation are introduced. Most of the commercialized robots presented in this paper are well known especially to robotics engineers and scholars in the robotic field, but are less known to humanities scholars. The field of rehabilitation robot research is expanding; in light of this, some of the current issues and future challenges in rehabilitation robot engineering are recalled, examined and clarified with future directions. This paper is concluded with some recommendations with respect to rehabilitation robots.

Design of electrical stimulation bioreactors for cardiac tissue engineering.

PubMed

Tandon, N; Marsano, A; Cannizzaro, C; Voldman, J; Vunjak-Novakovic, G

2008-01-01

Electrical stimulation has been shown to improve functional assembly of cardiomyocytes in vitro for cardiac tissue engineering. Carbon electrodes were found in past studies to have the best current injection characteristics. The goal of this study was to develop rational experimental design principles for the electrodes and stimulation regime, in particular electrode configuration, electrode ageing, and stimulation amplitude. Carbon rod electrodes were compared via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and we identified a safety range of 0 to 8 V/cm by comparing excitation thresholds and maximum capture rates for neonatal rat cardiomyocytes cultured with electrical stimulation. We conclude with recommendations for studies involving carbon electrodes for cardiac tissue engineering.

Self-care among healthcare social workers: An exploratory study.

PubMed

Miller, J Jay; Lianekhammy, Joann; Pope, Natalie; Lee, Jacquelyn; Grise-Owens, Erlene

2017-01-01

Despite growing interest in self-care, few studies have explicitly examined the self-care practices of healthcare social workers. This exploratory study investigated self-care among practitioners (N = 138) in one southeastern state. Overall, data suggest that healthcare social workers only moderately engaged in self-care. Additionally, analyses revealed significant differences in self-care practices by financial stability, overall health, and licensure status, respectively. Interestingly, perceived health status and current financial situation were significant predictors for overall self-care practices. After a brief review of the literature, this narrative will explicate findings, elucidate discussion points, identify salient implications, and conclude with areas for future research.

The cognitive treatment components and therapies of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia: A systematic review.

PubMed

Jansson-Fröjmark, Markus; Norell-Clarke, Annika

2018-06-07

Since the beginning of the twenty-first century, there has been an increased focus on developing and testing cognitive components and therapies for insomnia disorder. The aim of the current review was thus to describe and review the efficacy of cognitive components and therapies for insomnia. A systematic review was conducted on 32 studies (N = 1455 subjects) identified through database searches. Criteria for inclusion required that each study constituted a report of outcome from a cognitive component or therapy, that the study had a group protocol, adult participants with diagnosed insomnia or undiagnosed insomnia symptoms or reported poor sleep, and that the study was published until and including 2016 in English. Each study was systematically reviewed with a standard coding sheet. Several cognitive components, a multi-component cognitive program, and cognitive therapy were identified. It is concluded that there is support for paradoxical intention and cognitive therapy. There are also other cognitive interventions that appears promising, such as cognitive refocusing and behavioral experiments. For most interventions, the study quality was rated as low to moderate. We conclude that several cognitive treatment components and therapies can be viewed as efficacious or promising interventions for patients with insomnia disorder. Methodologically stronger studies are, however, warranted. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Recent Trends in Geography.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Biddle, Don

1985-01-01

This article reports on current trends in geography instruction in Australia. It appeals for greater cooperation between "academic geographers" and geography teachers in the secondary schools. Concludes by voicing concern for improved geography instruction in the coming decade. (JDH)

DoD Infrastructure: Why It Is & What Does It Cost

DTIC Science & Technology

1998-09-22

tutorial of the Defense Working Capital Fund (DWCF), describing the fund’s Defense Business Operating Fund (DBOF) origins and the current information...provided for budget submissions. His tutorial concluded by showing the current difficulties of incorporating business plan metrics into a model...using cost as an independent variable in acquisition decisions, outsourcing previously "core" operational activities and using best business

Field-Aligned Current Systems at Mercury

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heyner, Daniel; Exner, Willi

2017-04-01

Mercury exhibits a very dynamic magnetosphere, which is partially due to strong dayside reconnection and fast magnetospheric convection. It has been shown that dayside reconnection occurs even on low magnetic shear angles across the magnetopause. This drives quasi-steady region 1 field-aligned currents (FAC) that are observable in in-situ MESSENGER data. Here, the structure of the Hermean FAC-system is discussed and compared to the terrestrial counterpart. Due to the lack of a significant ionosphere at Mercury, it has to be examined how much of the poloidal FAC is reflected back to the magnetosphere, closed via toroidal currents in the planetary interior or via Pedersen currents in the tenuous exosphere. This investigation gives insights into the planetary conductivity structure as well as the exospheric plasma densities. Furthermore, it will be examined how much the only partially developed ring current at Mercury produces possible region 2 FAC signatures. We conclude with requirements to simulations that are needed to forecast the FAC structure on the southern hemisphere that will be closely studied with the upcoming BepiColombo mission.

Some properties of human neuronal α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors fused to the green fluorescent protein

PubMed Central

Palma, Eleonora; Mileo, Anna M.; Martínez-Torres, Ataúlfo; Eusebi, Fabrizio; Miledi, Ricardo

2002-01-01

The functional properties and cellular localization of the human neuronal α7 nicotinic acetylcholine (AcCho) receptor (α7 AcChoR) and its L248T mutated (mut) form were investigated by expressing them alone or as gene fusions with the enhanced version of the green fluorescent protein (GFP). Xenopus oocytes injected with wild-type (wt), mutα7, or the chimeric subunit cDNAs expressed receptors that gated membrane currents when exposed to AcCho. As already known, AcCho currents generated by wtα7 receptors decay much faster than those elicited by the mutα7 receptors. Unexpectedly, the fusion of GFP to the wt and mutated α7 receptors led to opposite results: the AcCho-current decay of the wt receptors became slower, whereas that of the mutated receptors was accelerated. Furthermore, repetitive applications of AcCho led to a considerable “run-down” of the AcCho currents generated by mutα7-GFP receptors, whereas those of the wtα7-GFP receptors remained stable or increased in amplitude. The AcCho-current run-down of mutα7-GFP oocytes was accompanied by a marked decrease of α-bungarotoxin binding activity. Fluorescence, caused by the chimeric receptors expressed, was seen over the whole oocyte surface but was more intense and abundant in the animal hemisphere, whereas it was much weaker in the vegetal hemisphere. We conclude that fusion of GFP to wtα7 and mutα7 receptors provides powerful tools to study the distribution and function of α7 receptors. We also conclude that fused genes do not necessarily recapitulate all of the properties of the original receptors. This fact must be borne close in mind whenever reporter genes are attached to proteins. PMID:11891308

Growth and characterization of high current density, high-speed InAs/AlSb resonant tunneling diodes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Soderstrom, J. R.; Brown, E. R.; Parker, C. D.; Mahoney, L. J.; Yao, J. Y.

1991-01-01

InAs/AlSb double-barrier resonant tunneling diodes with peak current densities up to 370,000 A/sq cm and high peak-to-valley current ratios of 3.2 at room temperature have been fabricated. The peak current density is well-explained by a stationary-state transport model with the two-band envelope function approximation. The valley current density predicted by this model is less than the experimental value by a factor that is typical of the discrepancy found in other double-barrier structures. It is concluded that threading dislocations are largely inactive in the resonant tunneling process.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Belsher, Jeremy D.; Pierson, Kayla L.; Gimpel, Rod F.

The Hanford site in southeast Washington contains approximately 207 million liters of radioactive and hazardous waste stored in 177 underground tanks. The U.S. Department of Energy's Office of River Protection is currently managing the Hanford waste treatment mission, which includes the storage, retrieval, treatment and disposal of the tank waste. Two recent studies, employing the modeling tools managed by the One System organization, have highlighted waste cleanup mission sensitivities. The Hanford Tank Waste Operations Simulator Sensitivity Study evaluated the impact that varying 21 different parameters had on the Hanford Tank Waste Operations Simulator model. It concluded that inaccuracies in themore » predicted phase partitioning of a few key components can result in significant changes in the waste treatment duration and in the amount of immobilized high-level waste that is produced. In addition, reducing the efficiency with which tank waste is retrieved and staged can increase mission duration. The 2012 WTP Tank Utilization Assessment concluded that flowsheet models need to include the latest low-activity waste glass algorithms or the waste treatment mission duration and the amount of low activity waste that is produced could be significantly underestimated. (authors)« less

Effect of temperature in multiple biomarkers of oxidative stress in coastal shrimp.

PubMed

Vinagre, Catarina; Madeira, Diana; Mendonça, Vanessa; Dias, Marta; Roma, Joma; Diniz, Mário S

2014-04-01

Various studies in captivity and in the wild have pointed to the effect of season, and temperature in particular, in the levels of the oxidative stress biomarkers currently used for environmental quality assessment. However, knowledge on how temperature affects the oxidative stress response is unavailable for most species. This study investigated the effect of increasing temperature on lipid peroxidation, catalase activity, superoxide dismutase and glutathione-S-transferase in the shrimps, Palaemon elegans and Palaemon serratus. It was concluded that increasing temperatures significantly affect all the biomarkers tested in both species, with the exception of superoxide dismutase in P. serratus which was not affected by temperature. The oxidative stress response was more intense in P. elegans, than in P. serratus, producing higher peaks of all biomarkers at temperatures between 22°C and 26°C, followed by low levels at higher temperatures. It was concluded that monitoring of ecosystems using oxidative stress biomarkers should take into account the species and thermal history of the organisms. Sampling should be avoided during heat waves and immediately after heat waves. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

D-Tagatose Is a Promising Sweetener to Control Glycaemia: A New Functional Food.

PubMed

Guerrero-Wyss, Marion; Durán Agüero, Samuel; Angarita Dávila, Lisse

2018-01-01

The objective of the current research was to review and update evidence on the dietary effect of the consumption of tagatose in type 2 diabetes, as well as to elucidate the current approach that exists on its production and biotechnological utility in functional food for diabetics. Articles published before July 1, 2017, were included in the databases PubMed, EBSCO, Google Scholar, and Scielo, including the terms "Tagatose", "Sweeteners", "Diabetes Mellitus type 2", "Sweeteners", "D-Tag". D-Tagatose (D-tag) is an isomer of fructose which is approximately 90% sweeter than sucrose. Preliminary studies in animals and preclinical studies showed that D-tag decreased glucose levels, which generated great interest in the scientific community. Recent studies indicate that tagatose has low glycemic index, a potent hypoglycemic effect, and eventually could be associated with important benefits for the treatment of obesity. The authors concluded that D-tag is promising as a sweetener without major adverse effects observed in these clinical studies.

D-Tagatose Is a Promising Sweetener to Control Glycaemia: A New Functional Food

PubMed Central

Angarita Dávila, Lisse

2018-01-01

The objective of the current research was to review and update evidence on the dietary effect of the consumption of tagatose in type 2 diabetes, as well as to elucidate the current approach that exists on its production and biotechnological utility in functional food for diabetics. Articles published before July 1, 2017, were included in the databases PubMed, EBSCO, Google Scholar, and Scielo, including the terms “Tagatose”, “Sweeteners”, “Diabetes Mellitus type 2”, “Sweeteners”, “D-Tag”. D-Tagatose (D-tag) is an isomer of fructose which is approximately 90% sweeter than sucrose. Preliminary studies in animals and preclinical studies showed that D-tag decreased glucose levels, which generated great interest in the scientific community. Recent studies indicate that tagatose has low glycemic index, a potent hypoglycemic effect, and eventually could be associated with important benefits for the treatment of obesity. The authors concluded that D-tag is promising as a sweetener without major adverse effects observed in these clinical studies. PMID:29546070

Feasibility study of a 270V dc flat cable aircraft electrical power distributed system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Musga, M. J.; Rinehart, R. J.

1982-01-01

This report documents the efforts of a one man-year feasibility study to evaluate the usage of flat conductors in place of conventional round wires for a 270 volt direct current aircraft power distribution system. This study consisted of designing electrically equivalent power distribution harnesses in flat conductor configurations for a currently operational military aircraft. Harness designs were established for installation in aircraft airframes which are: (1) All metal, or (2) All composite, or (3) a mixture of both. Flat cables have greater surface areas for heat transfer allowing higher current densities and therefore lighter weight conductors, than with round wires. Flat cables are less susceptible to electromagnetic effects. However, these positive factors are partially offset by installation and maintenance difficulties. This study concludes that the extent of these difficulties can be adequately limited with appropriate modification to present installation and maintenance practices. A comparative analysis of the flat and the round conductor power distribution harnesses was made for weight, cost, maintenance and reliability. The knowledge gained from the design and comparative analysis phases was used to generate design criteria for flat power cable harnesses and to identify and prioritize flat cable harness components and associated production tooling which require development.

THE CHALLENGE OF RESTORING WILD SALMON

EPA Science Inventory

Many experts have concluded that wild salmon recovery efforts in western North America (especially California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and southern British Columbia), as earnest, expensive, and socially disruptive as they currently are, do not appear likely to sustain biologic...

DEET

MedlinePlus

... of designated critical habitat for all currently registered uses of DEET. EPA issued an Interim Decision for DEET in September 2014. We concluded that: no additional data are required at this time; and no changes to the affected registrations or their labeling are ...

Advance of Nitrogen Removal in Constructed Wetland

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xie, Anbin; Chen, Hao; You, Shaohong

2018-01-01

Based on current literature, the article reviewed the mechanism and route of nitrogen removal, discussed the microbial species associated with nitrogen metabolism in constructed wetlands. Key unresolved issues were concluded for classical and novel nitrogen removal routes.

Evidence-based pharmacological treatment of substance use disorders and pathological gambling.

PubMed

van den Brink, Wim

2012-03-01

This review summarizes our current knowledge of the pharmacological treatment of substance use disorders and pathological gambling using data mainly from randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses regarding these randomized controlled trials. The review is restricted to the selection of first and second line pharmacological treatments for smoking, alcohol dependence, opioid dependence, cocaine dependence, cannabis dependence and pathological gambling. It is concluded that great progress has been made in the last three decades and that currently evidence-based pharmacological treatments are available for smoking cessation, alcohol and opioid dependence and pathological gambling. At the same time a series of existing and new pharmacological compounds are being tested in cocaine and cannabis dependence. The review concludes with a summary of additional strategies to increase the effect size of already available pharmacological interventions, including polypharmacy, combining pharmacotherapy with psychotherapy and psychosocial support, and improved patient-treatment matching.

Basic investigation into the electrical performance of solid electrolyte membranes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Richter, R.

1982-01-01

The electrical performance of solid electrolyte membranes was investigated analytically and the results were compared with experimental data. It is concluded that in devices that are used for pumping oxygen the major power losses have to be attributed to the thin film electrodes. Relations were developed by which the effectiveness of tubular solid electrolyte membranes can be determined and the optimum length evaluated. The observed failure of solid electrolyte tube membranes in very localized areas is explained by the highly non-uniform current distribution in the membranes. The analysis points to a possible contact resistance between the electrodes and the solid electrolyte material. This possible contact resistance remains to be investigated experimentally. It is concluded that film electrodes are not appropriate for devices which operate with current flow, i.e., pumps though they can be employed without reservation in devices that measure oxygen pressures if a limited increase in the response time can be tolerated.

Smoking in Hollywood movies: impact on teen smoking with special reference to German adolescents.

PubMed

Hanewinkel, Reiner

2007-01-01

This paper summarizes studies that have linked exposure to movie smoking and smoking initiation among adolescents. Much of the research linking exposure to smoking to movies with adolescent smoking comes from studies of U.S. children and their exposure to smoking in Hollywood movies. Cross-sectional and longitudinal studies have assessed such exposure and have found a strong, independent association with smoking onset. A first study conduced in Germany reveals that smoking in internationally distributed movies is a risk factor for ever and current smoking among European adolescents, too. It is concluded that limiting exposure of young adolescents to movie smoking could have important world-wide public health implications.

Reliability of physical functioning tests in patients with low back pain: a systematic review.

PubMed

Denteneer, Lenie; Van Daele, Ulrike; Truijen, Steven; De Hertogh, Willem; Meirte, Jill; Stassijns, Gaetane

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of physical functioning tests in patients with low back pain (LBP) and to investigate their reliability. A systematic computerized search was finalized in four different databases on June 24, 2017: PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and MEDLINE. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were followed during all stages of this review. Clinical studies that investigate the reliability of physical functioning tests in patients with LBP were eligible. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed with the use of the Consensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) checklist. To come to final conclusions on the reliability of the identified clinical tests, the current review assessed three factors, namely, outcome assessment, methodological quality, and consistency of description. A total of 20 studies were found eligible and 38 clinical tests were identified. Good overall test-retest reliability was concluded for the extensor endurance test (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]=0.93-0.97), the flexor endurance test (ICC=0.90-0.97), the 5-minute walking test (ICC=0.89-0.99), the 50-ft walking test (ICC=0.76-0.96), the shuttle walk test (ICC=0.92-0.99), the sit-to-stand test (ICC=0.91-0.99), and the loaded forward reach test (ICC=0.74-0.98). For inter-rater reliability, only one test, namely, the Biering-Sörensen test (ICC=0.88-0.99), could be concluded to have an overall good inter-rater reliability. None of the identified clinical tests could be concluded to have a good intrarater reliability. Further investigation should focus on a better overall study methodology and the use of identical protocols for the description of clinical tests. The assessment of reliability is only a first step in the recommendation process for the use of clinical tests. In future research, the identified clinical tests in the current review should be further investigated for validity. Only when these clinimetric properties of a clinical test have been thoroughly investigated can a final conclusion regarding the clinical and scientific use of the identified tests be made. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Quality management of eLearning for medical education: current situation and outlook

PubMed Central

Abrusch, Jasmin; Marienhagen, Jörg; Böckers, Anja; Gerhardt-Szép, Susanne

2015-01-01

Introduction: In 2008, the German Council of Science had advised universities to establish a quality management system (QMS) that conforms to international standards. The system was to be implemented within 5 years, i.e., until 2014 at the latest. The aim of the present study was to determine whether a QMS suitable for electronic learning (eLearning) domain of medical education to be used across Germany has meanwhile been identified. Methods: We approached all medical universities in Germany (n=35), using an anonymous questionnaire (8 domains, 50 items). Results: Our results (response rate 46.3%) indicated very reluctant application of QMS in eLearning and a major information deficit at the various institutions. Conclusions: Authors conclude that under the limitations of this study there seems to be a considerable need to improve the current knowledge on QMS for eLearning, and that clear guidelines and standards for their implementation should be further defined. PMID:26038685

Quality management of eLearning for medical education: current situation and outlook.

PubMed

Abrusch, Jasmin; Marienhagen, Jörg; Böckers, Anja; Gerhardt-Szép, Susanne

2015-01-01

In 2008, the German Council of Science had advised universities to establish a quality management system (QMS) that conforms to international standards. The system was to be implemented within 5 years, i.e., until 2014 at the latest. The aim of the present study was to determine whether a QMS suitable for electronic learning (eLearning) domain of medical education to be used across Germany has meanwhile been identified. We approached all medical universities in Germany (n=35), using an anonymous questionnaire (8 domains, 50 items). Our results (response rate 46.3%) indicated very reluctant application of QMS in eLearning and a major information deficit at the various institutions. Authors conclude that under the limitations of this study there seems to be a considerable need to improve the current knowledge on QMS for eLearning, and that clear guidelines and standards for their implementation should be further defined.

Epoxy coated reinforcement in bridge decks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wills, J.

A review was conducted of methods relating to the use of epoxy coated reinforcing bars for bridge decks and their potential for use in the United Kingdom. A survey of work carried out in the USA was carried out and the analysis used in a preliminary cost study. The options of having either a hot rolled asphalt surfacing or a permanently exposed concrete wearing surface were considered. It was concluded that epoxy coating of the top steel in addition to current waterproofing practice would provide, at relatively little extra cost, additional assurance that the reinforcement would be adequately protected throughout the life of a bridge. Current design rules do not permit decks with permanently exposed concrete wearing surface without waterproofing. Epoxy coating may afford a means of introducing such decks but before a positive recommendation to delete waterproofing can be made further studies would have to be undertaken.

Epilepsy and the immune system: is there a link?

PubMed

Billiau, An D; Wouters, Carine H; Lagae, Lieven G

2005-01-01

The concept that the immune system plays a role in the epileptogenic process of some epileptic syndromes was first proposed more than 20 years ago. Since then, numerous studies have reported on the existence of a variety of immunological alterations in epileptic patients, on the observation of favourable responses of refractory epilepsy syndromes to immunomodulatory treatment, and on the association of certain well-known immune-mediated disease states with epilepsy. This review comprehensively recapitulates the currently available evidence supporting or arguing against the possible involvement of the immune system in the pathogenesis of certain types of epilepsy. It is concluded that an abundance of facts is in support of this concept and that further studies should be directed at substantiating the pathogenic significance of (auto)immune responses in certain types of epilepsy. Current progress in the functional and molecular immunological research techniques will indisputably contribute to the elucidation of this link.

Excavating silences and tensions of agency|passivity in science education reform

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rivera Maulucci, Maria S.

2010-12-01

I reflect on studies by Rodriguez and Carlone, Haun-Frank, and Kimmel to emphasize the ways in which they excavate silences in the science education literature related to linguistic and cultural diversity and situating the problem of reform in teachers rather than contextual factors, such as traditional schooling discourses and forces that serve to marginalize science. I propose that the current push for top-down reform and accountability diminishes opportunities for receptivity, learning with and from students in order to transform teachers' practices and promote equity in science education. I discuss tensions of agency and passivity in science education reform and argue that attention to authentic caring constitutes another silence in the science education literature. I conclude that the current policy context positions teachers and science education researchers as tempered radicals struggling against opp(reg)ressive reforms and that there is a need for more studies to excavate these and other silences.

Rethinking Social Cognition in Light of Psychosis: Reciprocal Implications for Cognition and Psychopathology

PubMed Central

Bell, Vaughan; Mills, Kathryn L.; Modinos, Gemma; Wilkinson, Sam

2017-01-01

The positive symptoms of psychosis largely involve the experience of illusory social actors, and yet our current measures of social cognition, at best, only weakly predict their presence. We review evidence to suggest that the range of current approaches in social cognition is not sufficient to explain the fundamentally social nature of these experiences. We argue that social agent representation is an important organizing principle for understanding social cognition and that alterations in social agent representation may be a factor in the formation of delusions and hallucination in psychosis. We evaluate the feasibility of this approach in light of clinical and nonclinical studies, developmental research, cognitive anthropology, and comparative psychology. We conclude with recommendations for empirical testing of specific hypotheses and how studies of social cognition could more fully capture the extent of social reasoning and experience in both psychosis and more prosaic mental states. PMID:28533946

Implicit cognitive aggression among young male prisoners: Association with dispositional and current aggression.

PubMed

Ireland, Jane L; Adams, Christine

2015-01-01

The current study explores associations between implicit and explicit aggression in young adult male prisoners, seeking to apply the Reflection-Impulsive Model and indicate parity with elements of the General Aggression Model and social cognition. Implicit cognitive aggressive processing is not an area that has been examined among prisoners. Two hundred and sixty two prisoners completed an implicit cognitive aggression measure (Puzzle Test) and explicit aggression measures, covering current behaviour (DIPC-R) and aggression disposition (AQ). It was predicted that dispositional aggression would be predicted by implicit cognitive aggression, and that implicit cognitive aggression would predict current engagement in aggressive behaviour. It was also predicted that more impulsive implicit cognitive processing would associate with aggressive behaviour whereas cognitively effortful implicit cognitive processing would not. Implicit aggressive cognitive processing was associated with increased dispositional aggression but not current reports of aggressive behaviour. Impulsive implicit cognitive processing of an aggressive nature predicted increased dispositional aggression whereas more cognitively effortful implicit cognitive aggression did not. The article concludes by outlining the importance of accounting for implicit cognitive processing among prisoners and the need to separate such processing into facets (i.e. impulsive vs. cognitively effortful). Implications for future research and practice in this novel area of study are indicated. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Lobe-cleft instability in the buoyant gravity current generated by estuarine outflow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horner-Devine, Alexander R.; Chickadel, C. Chris

2017-05-01

Gravity currents represent a broad class of geophysical flows including turbidity currents, powder avalanches, pyroclastic flows, sea breeze fronts, haboobs, and river plumes. A defining feature in many gravity currents is the formation of three-dimensional lobes and clefts along the front and researchers have sought to understand these ubiquitous geophysical structures for decades. The prevailing explanation is based largely on early laboratory and numerical model experiments at much smaller scales, which concluded that lobes and clefts are generated due to hydrostatic instability exclusively in currents propagating over a nonslip boundary. Recent studies suggest that frontal dynamics change as the flow scale increases, but no measurements have been made that sufficiently resolve the flow structure in full-scale geophysical flows. Here we use thermal infrared and acoustic imaging of a river plume to reveal the three-dimensional structure of lobes and clefts formed in a geophysical gravity current front. The observed lobes and clefts are generated at the front in the absence of a nonslip boundary, contradicting the prevailing explanation. The observed flow structure is consistent with an alternative formation mechanism, which predicts that the lobe scale is inherited from subsurface vortex structures.

Collaborative learning model inquiring based on digital game

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yuan, Jiugen; Xing, Ruonan

2012-04-01

With the development of computer education software, digital educational game has become an important part in our life, entertainment and education. Therefore how to make full use of digital game's teaching functions and educate through entertainment has become the focus of current research. The thesis make a connection between educational game and collaborative learning, the current popular teaching model, and concludes digital game-based collaborative learning model combined with teaching practice.

Educational Television: The Gulf Between Researchers and Producers.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hart, Ian

1982-01-01

Examines the differences between researchers and practitioners in the field of educational television, assesses the value of current research to television producers, and concludes that cooperation between researcher and practitioner is necessary for effective communication with the audience. (JJD)

SALMON 2100: THE FUTURE OF WILD PACIFIC SALMON

EPA Science Inventory

Many experts have concluded that wild salmon recovery efforts in western North America (especially California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and southern British Columbia), as earnest, expensive, and socially disruptive as they currently are, do not appear likely to sustain biologic...

Sexual Harassment: The Current State of the Law Governing Educational Institutions.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wetherfield, Alison

1990-01-01

Surveys federal law prohibiting sexual harassment as it applies to colleges. Concludes that sexual harassment law is still evolving, pursuing and defending harassment cases are traumatic activities, and that prevention is better than cure. (ABL)

Policy Implications of Education Informatics

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carr, Jo Ann; O'Brien, Nancy P.

2010-01-01

Background/Context: This concluding article identifies the policy implications of education informatics and explores impacts of current copyright laws, legislative structures, publishing practices, and education organizations. Synthesizing the discussions in the preceding articles, this article highlights the importance of designing information…

Teenage Drunkenness; Warning Signal, Transient Boisterousness, or Symptom of Social Change?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Finn, Peter

1979-01-01

Several current views on the origins and meaning of adolescent intoxication are reviewed and the validity and utility of each perspective discussed. It is concluded that each occurrence of teenage drunkenness should be analyzed individually. (SJL)

A crunch on thermocompression flip chip bonding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Suppiah, Sarveshvaran; Ong, Nestor Rubio; Sauli, Zaliman; Sarukunaselan, Karunavani; Alcain, Jesselyn Barro; Mahmed, Norsuria; Retnasamy, Vithyacharan

2017-09-01

This study discussed the evolution and important findings, critical technical challenges, solutions and bonding equipment of flip chip thermo compression bonding (TCB). The bonding force, temperature and time were the key bonding parameters that need to be tweaked based on the researches done by others. TCB technology worked well with both pre-applied underfill and flux (still under development). Lower throughput coupled with higher processing costs was example of challenges in the TCB technology. The paper is concluded with a brief description of the current equipment used in thermo compression process.

Analytical study of electrical disconnect system for use on manned and unmanned missions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rosener, A. A.; Lenda, J. A.; Trummer, R. O.; Jonkoniec, T. G.

1977-01-01

The program to survey existing electrical connector availability, and establish an optimum connector design for maintainable spacecraft substation interfaces is reported. Functional and operational requirements are given along with the results of the documentation survey, which disclosed that the MSFC series connectors have the preferred features of current connector technology. Optimum design concepts for EVA tasks, modules serviced by manipulators, and for manipulators independent of other servicing units are presented. It is concluded that separate connector designs are required for spacecraft replaceable modules, and for crewman EVA.

Parameters for determining inoculated pack/challenge study protocols.

PubMed

2010-01-01

The National Advisory Committee on Microbiological Criteria for Foods developed guidelines for conducting challenge studies on pathogen inhibition and inactivation studies in a variety of foods. The document is intended for use by the food industry, including food processors, food service operators, and food retailers; federal, state, and local food safety regulators; public health officials; food testing laboratories; and process authorities. The document is focused on and limited to bacterial inactivation and growth inhibition and does not make specific recommendations with respect to public health. The Committee concluded that challenge studies should be designed considering the most current advances in methodologies, current thinking on pathogens of concern, and an understanding of the product preparation, variability, and storage conditions. Studies should be completed and evaluated under the guidance of an expert microbiologist in a qualified laboratory and should include appropriate statistical design and data analyses. This document provides guidelines for choice of microorganisms for studies, inoculum preparation, inoculum level, methods of inoculation, incubation temperatures and times, sampling considerations, and interpreting test results. Examples of appropriately designed growth inhibition and inactivation studies are provided.

Lung cancer and diesel exhaust: an updated critical review of the occupational epidemiology literature.

PubMed

Gamble, John F; Nicolich, Mark J; Boffetta, Paolo

2012-08-01

A recent review concluded that the evidence from epidemiology studies was indeterminate and that additional studies were required to support the diesel exhaust-lung cancer hypothesis. This updated review includes seven recent studies. Two population-based studies concluded that significant exposure-response (E-R) trends between cumulative diesel exhaust and lung cancer were unlikely to be entirely explained by bias or confounding. Those studies have quality data on life-style risk factors, but do not allow definitive conclusions because of inconsistent E-R trends, qualitative exposure estimates and exposure misclassification (insufficient latency based on job title), and selection bias from low participation rates. Non-definitive results are consistent with the larger body of population studies. An NCI/NIOSH cohort mortality and nested case-control study of non-metal miners have some surrogate-based quantitative diesel exposure estimates (including highest exposure measured as respirable elemental carbon (REC) in the workplace) and smoking histories. The authors concluded that diesel exhaust may cause lung cancer. Nonetheless, the results are non-definitive because the conclusions are based on E-R patterns where high exposures were deleted to achieve significant results, where a posteriori adjustments were made to augment results, and where inappropriate adjustments were made for the "negative confounding" effects of smoking even though current smoking was not associated with diesel exposure and therefore could not be a confounder. Three cohort studies of bus drivers and truck drivers are in effect air pollution studies without estimates of diesel exhaust exposure and so are not sufficient for assessing the lung cancer-diesel exhaust hypothesis. Results from all occupational cohort studies with quantitative estimates of exposure have limitations, including weak and inconsistent E-R associations that could be explained by bias, confounding or chance, exposure misclassification, and often inadequate latency. In sum, the weight of evidence is considered inadequate to confirm the diesel-lung cancer hypothesis.

Lung cancer and diesel exhaust: an updated critical review of the occupational epidemiology literature

PubMed Central

Gamble, John F.; Nicolich, Mark J.; Boffetta, Paolo

2012-01-01

A recent review concluded that the evidence from epidemiology studies was indeterminate and that additional studies were required to support the diesel exhaust-lung cancer hypothesis. This updated review includes seven recent studies. Two population-based studies concluded that significant exposure-response (E-R) trends between cumulative diesel exhaust and lung cancer were unlikely to be entirely explained by bias or confounding. Those studies have quality data on life-style risk factors, but do not allow definitive conclusions because of inconsistent E-R trends, qualitative exposure estimates and exposure misclassification (insufficient latency based on job title), and selection bias from low participation rates. Non-definitive results are consistent with the larger body of population studies. An NCI/NIOSH cohort mortality and nested case-control study of non-metal miners have some surrogate-based quantitative diesel exposure estimates (including highest exposure measured as respirable elemental carbon (REC) in the workplace) and smoking histories. The authors concluded that diesel exhaust may cause lung cancer. Nonetheless, the results are non-definitive because the conclusions are based on E-R patterns where high exposures were deleted to achieve significant results, where a posteriori adjustments were made to augment results, and where inappropriate adjustments were made for the “negative confounding” effects of smoking even though current smoking was not associated with diesel exposure and therefore could not be a confounder. Three cohort studies of bus drivers and truck drivers are in effect air pollution studies without estimates of diesel exhaust exposure and so are not sufficient for assessing the lung cancer-diesel exhaust hypothesis. Results from all occupational cohort studies with quantitative estimates of exposure have limitations, including weak and inconsistent E-R associations that could be explained by bias, confounding or chance, exposure misclassification, and often inadequate latency. In sum, the weight of evidence is considered inadequate to confirm the diesel-lung cancer hypothesis. PMID:22656672

Eddy current standards - Cracks versus notches

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hagemaier, D. J.; Collingwood, M. R.; Nguyen, K. H.

1992-10-01

Eddy current tests aimed at evaluating cracks and electron-discharge machined (EDM) notches in 7075-T6 aluminum specimens are described. A comparison of the shape and amplitude of recordings made from both transverse and longitudinal scans of small EDM notches and fatigue cracks showd almost identical results. The signal amplitude and phase angle increased with an increase of EDM notch and crak size. It is concluded that equivalent eddy current results obtained from similar-size surface cracks and notches in aluminum can be used to establish a desired sensitivity level for inspection.

ON THE RELATION OF DIRECT CURRENTS TO CONDENSER DISCHARGES AS STIMULI

PubMed Central

Blair, H. A.

1935-01-01

Data on the electrical stimulation of sciatic-gastrocnemius preparations of the frog by both direct currents and condenser discharges at the same time are discussed in relation to the validity of the differential equation See PDF for Equation where p is the local excitatory process, V the stimulating current or voltage, and K and k are constants. It is concluded that the constant k is the same whether it is derived from the data of the one stimulus or the other when the same fibres are being stimulated. PMID:19872885

The Electrophysiological Effects of Qiliqiangxin on Cardiac Ventricular Myocytes of Rats

PubMed Central

Wei, Yidong; Liu, Xiaoyu; Wei, Haidong; Hou, Lei; Che, Wenliang; The, Erlinda; Li, Gang; Jhummon, Muktanand Vikash; Wei, Wanlin

2013-01-01

Qiliqiangxin, a Chinese herb, represents the affection in Ca channel function of cardiac myocytes. It is unknown whether Qiliqiangxin has an effect on Na current and K current because the pharmacological actions of this herb's compound are very complex. We investigated the rational usage of Qiliqiangxin on cardiac ventricular myocytes of rats. Ventricular myocytes were exposed acutely to 1, 10, and 50 mg/L Qiliqiangxin, and whole cell patch-clamp technique was used to study the acute effects of Qiliqiangxin on Sodium current (I Na), outward currents delayed rectifier outward K+ current (I K), slowly activating delayed rectifier outward K+ current (I Ks), transient outward K+ current (I to), and inward rectifier K+ current (I K1). Qiliqiangxin can decrease I Na by 28.53% ± 5.98%, and its IC50 was 9.2 mg/L. 10 and 50 mg/L Qiliqiangxin decreased by 37.2% ± 6.4% and 55.9% ± 5.5% summit current density of I to. 10 and 50 mg/L Qiliqiangxin decreased I Ks by 15.51% ± 4.03% and 21.6% ± 5.6%. Qiliqiangxin represented a multifaceted pharmacological profile. The effects of Qiliqiangxin on Na and K currents of ventricular myocytes were more profitable in antiarrhythmic therapy in the clinic. We concluded that the relative efficacy of Qiliqiangxin was another choice for the existing antiarrhythmic therapy. PMID:24250713

Spectral characteristics of time resolved magnonic spin Seebeck effect

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Etesami, S. R.; Chotorlishvili, L.; Berakdar, J.

2015-09-28

Spin Seebeck effect (SSE) holds promise for new spintronic devices with low-energy consumption. The underlying physics, essential for a further progress, is yet to be fully clarified. This study of the time resolved longitudinal SSE in the magnetic insulator yttrium iron garnet concludes that a substantial contribution to the spin current stems from small wave-vector subthermal exchange magnons. Our finding is in line with the recent experiment by S. R. Boona and J. P. Heremans [Phys. Rev. B 90, 064421 (2014)]. Technically, the spin-current dynamics is treated based on the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation also including magnons back-action on thermal bath, whilemore » the formation of the time dependent thermal gradient is described self-consistently via the heat equation coupled to the magnetization dynamics.« less

Improvement of water quality at Dongbin Harbor with construction of an inland canal, Korea.

PubMed

Cho, Yong-Sik

2014-01-01

The behaviors of the water body of Dongbin Harbor located at Pohang City, Gyongpook Province, in Korea were numerically simulated in this study. A canal was planned to connect the harbor and the Hyeongsan River to improve water quality inside the harbor. The current system was first simulated by using a commercial program RMA2, with respect to both tidal currents and river flow. The progress inside the harbor from a supply of fresh water from the Hyeongsan River was then predicted by using RMA4. Both the present and future conditions (before and after construction of an inland canal) were taken into consideration in numerical simulations. It is concluded that the water quality inside the harbor can be improved considerably after construction of the canal.

Old age, vulnerability and sexual violence: implications for knowledge and practice.

PubMed

Jones, H; Powell, J L

2006-09-01

This paper seeks to offer further analysis on the relationship between abuse of power, elder abuse and sexual violence. Importantly, current definitions are examined and the existing literature is reviewed to establish what the current level of debate is on sexual violence in its relationship to elderly women. Through the analysis of available literature it is possible to observe which and how older people have been marginalized both in particular disciplines of study and policy spaces. We conclude that marginalization results in inadequate redress to issues of violence and power that may manifest against the older person, and which leads to feelings of vulnerability. There are important implications for helping health professionals, especially nurses, for understanding the policy, theory and practice. The need for empirical research in this difficult area is paramount.

Glutamatergic postsynaptic block by Pamphobeteus spider venoms in crayfish.

PubMed

Araque, A; Ferreira, W; Lucas, S; Buño, W

1992-01-31

The effects of toxins from venom glands of two south american spiders (Pamphobeteus platyomma and P. soracabae) on glutamatergic excitatory synaptic transmission were studied in the neuromuscular junction of the opener muscle of crayfish. The toxins selectively and reversibly blocked both excitatory postsynaptic currents and potentials in a dose-dependent manner. They also reversibly abolished glutamate-induced postsynaptic membrane depolarization. They had no effect on resting postsynaptic membrane conductance nor on postsynaptic voltage-gated currents. The synaptic facilitation and the frequency of miniature postsynaptic potentials were unaffected by the toxins, indicating that presynaptic events were not modified. Picrotoxin, a selective antagonist of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor, did not modify toxin effects. We conclude that both toxins specifically block the postsynaptic glutamate receptor-channel complex.

Cultural differences in survey responding: Issues and insights in the study of response biases.

PubMed

Kemmelmeier, Markus

2016-12-01

This paper introduces the special section "Cultural differences in questionnaire responding" and discusses central topics in the research on response biases in cross-cultural survey research. Based on current conceptions of acquiescent, extreme, and socially desirable responding, the author considers current data on the correlated nature of response biases and the conditions under which different response styles they emerge. Based on evidence relating different response styles to the cultural dimension of individualism-collectivism, the paper explores how research presented as part of this special section might help resolves some tensions in this literature. The paper concludes by arguing that response styles should not be treated merely as measurement error, but as cultural behaviors in themselves. © 2016 International Union of Psychological Science.

Intervening to Improve Outcomes for Siblings in Foster Care: Conceptual, Substantive, and Methodological Dimensions of a Prevention Science Framework

PubMed Central

Kothari, Brianne H.; Blakeslee, Jennifer; Lamson-Siu, Emilie; Bank, Lew; Linares, L. Oriana; Waid, Jeffrey; Sorenson, Paul; Jimenez, Jessica; Pearson, Eva; Shlonsky, Aron

2014-01-01

In recent years, the child welfare field has devoted significant attention to siblings in foster care. Policymakers and practitioners have supported efforts to connect siblings via shared foster placements and visitation while researchers have focused on illuminating the empirical foundations of sibling placement and sibling intervention in child welfare. The current paper synthesizes literature on sibling relationship development and sibling issues in child welfare in the service of presenting a typology of sibling-focused interventions for use with foster youth. The paper provides two examples of current intervention research studies focused on enhancing sibling developmental processes and understanding their connection to child welfare outcomes. The paper concludes by presenting an emerging agenda informing policy, practice, and research on siblings in foster care. PMID:24634558

Simulation study on heat conduction of a nanoscale phase-change random access memory cell.

PubMed

Kim, Junho; Song, Ki-Bong

2006-11-01

We have investigated heat transfer characteristics of a nano-scale phase-change random access memory (PRAM) cell using finite element method (FEM) simulation. Our PRAM cell is based on ternary chalcogenide alloy, Ge2Sb2Te5 (GST), which is used as a recording layer. For contact area of 100 x 100 nm2, simulations of crystallization and amorphization processes were carried out. Physical quantities such as electric conductivity, thermal conductivity, and specific heat were treated as temperature-dependent parameters. Through many simulations, it is concluded that one can reduce set current by decreasing both electric conductivities of amorphous GST and crystalline GST, and in addition to these conditions by decreasing electric conductivity of molten GST one can also reduce reset current significantly.

Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ginger in Health and Physical Activity: Review of Current Evidence

PubMed Central

Mashhadi, Nafiseh Shokri; Ghiasvand, Reza; Askari, Gholamreza; Hariri, Mitra; Darvishi, Leila; Mofid, Mohammad Reza

2013-01-01

Background: Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) belongs to the family Zingiberaceae. The health-promoting perspective of ginger is attributed to its rich phytochemistry. This study aimed to review the current evidence on ginger effects as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative. Methods: We searched MEDLINE for related publications using “ginger” and “anti-oxidative” and “ginger” and “anti-inflammatory” as keywords. This search had considered Papers that had been published between 2000 and 2010 without any filter. Conclusions: The anticancer potential of ginger is well documented and its functional ingredients like gingerols, shogaol, and paradols are the valuable ingredients which can prevent various cancers. This review concludes to favor ginger but some ambiguities necessitate further research before claiming its efficacy. PMID:23717767

Status of the Magma Energy Project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dunn, J. C.

The current magma energy project is assessing the engineering feasibility of extracting thermal energy directly from crustal magma bodies. The estimated size of the U.S. resource (50,000 to 500,000 quads) suggests a considerable potential impact on future power generation. In a previous seven-year study, we concluded that there are no insurmountable barriers that would invalidate the magma energy concept. Several concepts for drilling, energy extraction, and materials survivability were successfully demonstrated in Kilauea Iki lava lake, Hawaii. The present program is addressing the engineering design problems associated with accessing magma bodies and extracting thermal energy for power generation. The normal stages for development of a geothermal resource are being investigated: exploration, drilling and completions, production, and surface power plant design. Current status of the engineering program and future plans are described.

A Strategy of Suppressing the Underground Impact Scattered Current in Power Grid by Using Insulation Baffle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhan, Qinghua; Chen, Zhucheng; Li, Hongtao; Liu, Yijun; Mei, Cheng; He, Zhijie

2017-05-01

In order to solve the accidents happened in the ponds or other special places around the tower which were caused by the diffusion current after lightning stroke the transmission tower, the protection measures for the problem tower in the area of Guangdong Province which occurred dead fish in the pond in thunderstorm weather were studied in this paper. The COMSOL mutiphysics simulation software was used in order to calculate the electromagnetic environment of the diffusion situation by grounding device after lightning stroke the power transmission tower. Study concluded that the safe distance between the fish pond and grounding device of transmission tower is 14 meter. The effects of the length and depth or stayed a gap of the insulation baffle on the fish in the fish pond were discussed. The protection method of the insulation baffle has important practical significance to the protection of the grounding device for diffusion current, and can provide some engineering guidance and basis for the grounding arrangement and transformation of the high voltage transmission line tower.

Packaging for Food Service

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stilwell, E. J.

1985-01-01

Most of the key areas of concern in packaging the three principle food forms for the space station were covered. It can be generally concluded that there are no significant voids in packaging materials availability or in current packaging technology. However, it must also be concluded that the process by which packaging decisions are made for the space station feeding program will be very synergistic. Packaging selection will depend heavily on the preparation mechanics, the preferred presentation and the achievable disposal systems. It will be important that packaging be considered as an integral part of each decision as these systems are developed.

Wireless Instrumentation Use on Launch Vehicles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sherman, Aaron

2010-01-01

This slide presentation reviews the results of a study on the use of wireless instrumentation and sensors on future launch vehicles. The use of wireless technologies would if feasible would allow for fewer wires, and allow for more flexibility. However, it was generally concluded that wireless solutions are not currently ready to replace wired technologies for launch vehicles. The recommendations of the study were to continue to use wired sensors as the primary choice for vehicle instrumentation, and to continue to assess needs and use wireless instrumentation where appropriate. The future work includes support efforts for wireless technologies, and continue to monitor the development of wireless solutions.

A review of ride comfort studies in the United Kingdom

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Griffin, M. J.

1975-01-01

United Kingdom research which is relevant to the assessment of vehicle ride comfort was reviewed. The findings reported in approximately 80 research papers are outlined, and an index to the areas of application of these studies is provided. The data obtained by different research groups are compared, and it is concluded that, while there are some areas of general agreement, the findings obtained from previous United Kingdom research are insufficient to define a general purpose ride comfort evaluation procedure. The degree to which United Kingdom research supports the vibration evaluation procedure defined in the current International Standard on the evaluation of human exposure to whole-body vibration is discussed.

Methods to assess Drosophila heart development, function and aging

PubMed Central

Ocorr, Karen; Vogler, Georg; Bodmer, Rolf

2014-01-01

In recent years the Drosophila heart has become an established model of many different aspects of human cardiac disease. This model has allowed identification of disease-causing mechanisms underlying congenital heart disease and cardiomyopathies and has permitted the study underlying genetic, metabolic and age-related contributions to heart function. In this review we discuss methods currently employed in the analysis of the Drosophila heart structure and function, such as optical methods to infer heart function and performance, electrophysiological and mechanical approaches to characterize cardiac tissue properties, and conclude with histological techniques used in the study of heart development and adult structure. PMID:24727147

[Forensic medical diagnostics of intra-vitality of the strangulation mark by morphological methods].

PubMed

Bogomolov, D V; Zbrueva, Yu V; Putintsev, V A; Denisova, O P

2016-01-01

The objective of the present study WaS to overview the current domestic and foreign literature concerning the up-to-date methods employed for the expert evaluation of intra-vitality of the strangulation mark. The secondary objective was to propose the new approaches for addressing this problem. The methods of expert diagnostics with a view to determining the time of infliction of injuries as exemplified by mechanical asphyxia are discussed. It is concluded that immunohistochemical and morphometric studies provide the most promising tools for the evaluation of intra-vitality of the strangulation mark for the purpose of forensic medical expertise.

Composite scores in comparative effectiveness research: counterbalancing parsimony and dimensionality in patient-reported outcomes.

PubMed

Schwartz, Carolyn E; Patrick, Donald L

2014-07-01

When planning a comparative effectiveness study comparing disease-modifying treatments, competing demands influence choice of outcomes. Current practice emphasizes parsimony, although understanding multidimensional treatment impact can help to personalize medical decision-making. We discuss both sides of this 'tug of war'. We discuss the assumptions, advantages and drawbacks of composite scores and multidimensional outcomes. We describe possible solutions to the multiple comparison problem, including conceptual hierarchy distinctions, statistical approaches, 'real-world' benchmarks of effectiveness and subgroup analysis. We conclude that comparative effectiveness research should consider multiple outcome dimensions and compare different approaches that fit the individual context of study objectives.

Design of Electrical Stimulation Bioreactors for Cardiac Tissue Engineering

PubMed Central

Tandon, N.; Marsano, A.; Cannizzaro, C.; Voldman, J.; Vunjak-Novakovic, G.

2009-01-01

Electrical stimulation has been shown to improve functional assembly of cardiomyocytes in vitro for cardiac tissue engineering. Carbon electrodes were found in past studies to have the best current injection characteristics. The goal of this study was to develop rational experimental design principles for the electrodes and stimulation regime, in particular electrode configuration, electrode ageing, and stimulation amplitude. Carbon rod electrodes were compared via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and we identified a safety range of 0 to 8 V/cm by comparing excitation thresholds and maximum capture rates for neonatal rat cardiomyocytes cultured with electrical stimulation. We conclude with recommendations for studies involving carbon electrodes for cardiac tissue engineering. PMID:19163486

History, problems, and prospects of Islamic insurance (Takaful) in Bangladesh.

PubMed

Khan, Issa; Rahman, Noor Naemah Binti Abdul; Yusoff, Mohd Yakub Zulkifli Bin Mohd; Nor, Mohd Roslan Bin Mohd

2016-01-01

This study explains the history, current problems, and future possibilities of Islamic insurance (takaful) in Bangladesh. To articulate these issues, the researcher has adopted the qualitative method, and data has been collected through secondary sources i.e. articles, books, and online resources. The study reveals that Islamic insurance in Bangladesh is regulated by the Insurance Act 2010 which is contradictory with Islamic insurance causing numerous problems for Islamic insurance. This study also points out that Islamic insurance is a fast growing industry with huge prospects in Bangladesh. The government should introduce separate regulations for both Islamic and conventional insurance. The research concludes with suggestions for the further development of Islamic insurance in Bangladesh.

Beyond Academic and Social Integration: Understanding the Impact of a STEM Enrichment Program on the Retention and Degree Attainment of Underrepresented Students

PubMed Central

Lane, Tonisha B.

2016-01-01

The current study used a case study methodological approach, including document analysis, semistructured interviews, and participant observations, to investigate how a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) enrichment program supported retention and degree attainment of underrepresented students at a large, public, predominantly white institution. From this study, a model emerged that encompassed four components: proactive care, holistic support, community building, and catalysts for STEM identity development. These components encompassed a number of strategies and practices that were instrumental in the outcomes of program participants. This paper concludes with implications for practice, such as using models to inform program planning, assessment, and evaluation. PMID:27543638

Entrepreneurship as a legitimate field of knowledge.

PubMed

Sánchez, José C

2011-08-01

Entrepreneurship as a research topic has been approached from disciplines such as economics, sociology or psychology. After justifying its study, we define the domain of the field, highlighting what has currently become its dominant paradigm, the process of the discovery, assessment and exploitation of opportunities. We then describe the main perspectives and offer an integrated conceptual framework that will allow us to legitimize the study of entrepreneurship as a field of knowledge in its own right. We believe that this framework will help researchers to better recognize the relations among the many factors forming part of the study of entrepreneurship. Lastly, we conclude with some brief reflections on the potential value of the framework presented.

Mouthing activity data for children aged 7 to 35 months old in Taiwan

PubMed Central

Tsou, Ming-Chien; Özkaynak, Halûk; Beamer, Paloma; Dang, Winston; Hsi, Hsing-Cheng; Jiang, Chuen-Bin; Chien, Ling-Chu

2015-01-01

Young children’s mouthing activities thought to be among the most important exposure pathways. Unfortunately, mouthing activity studies have only been conducted in a few countries. In the current study, we used videotaping and computer-based translating method to obtain mouthing activity data for 66 children aged 7 to 35 months old in Taiwan. The median indoor hand-to-mouth and object-to-mouth frequencies were 8.91 and 11.39 contacts h−1, respectively. The median indoor hand-to-mouth and object-to-mouth hourly contact durations were 0.34 and 0.46 min h−1, respectively. The indoor object-to-mouth activities were significantly and negatively correlated with age. Children aged 12 to <24 months in the current study had lower indoor hand-to-mouth and object-to-mouth frequencies than children of same age group in the United States. We also found that indoor mouthing duration with pacifier was significantly and negatively correlated with indoor mouthing duration with other non-dietary objects. The results of the current study indicate that the mouthing behaviors might be different between different countries or populations with different ethnic or lifestyle characteristics. We conclude that using hand-to-mouth frequency values from the current literature may not be most reliable for estimating non-dietary exposures of young children living in Taiwan or even in other similar Asian countries. PMID:25027450

Social science's curious war with pop culture and how it was lost: The media violence debate and the risks it holds for social science.

PubMed

Ferguson, Christopher J; Beresin, Eugene

2017-06-01

For nearly half a century, psychologists, pediatricians and psychiatrists have studied the potential impact of media violence on aggression and societal violence, particularly among youth. Despite hundreds of studies, scholars have failed to find consensus on potential effects. Nonetheless, professional organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and American Psychological Association have released policy statements conclusively linking violent media to societal concerns. In reaction, some scholars have accused these professional groups of distorting evidence and failing to inform the public of the inconsistent nature of studies in this field. The current paper reviews recent research on media violence. It concludes that caution is recommended in public statements regarding media effects and that professional groups risk serious reputation damage with policy statements calling for behavioral change without clear reflection of the current evidence-base of the research. Recommendations are provided for practitioners and for science policy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Wi-Fi and health: review of current status of research.

PubMed

Foster, Kenneth R; Moulder, John E

2013-12-01

This review summarizes the current state of research on possible health effects of Wi-Fi (a commercial name for IEEE 802.11-compliant wireless networking). In response to public concerns about health effects of Wi-Fi and wireless networks and calls by government agencies for research on possible health and safety issues with the technology, a considerable amount of technology-specific research has been completed. A series of high quality engineering studies have provided a good, but not complete, understanding of the levels of radiofrequency (RF) exposure to individuals from Wi-Fi. The limited number of technology-specific bioeffects studies done to date are very mixed in terms of quality and outcome. Unequivocally, the RF exposures from Wi-Fi and wireless networks are far below U.S. and international exposure limits for RF energy. While several studies report biological effects due to Wi-Fi-type exposures, technical limitations prevent drawing conclusions from them about possible health risks of the technology. The review concludes with suggestions for future research on the topic.

Forms of Capital and Habitus in the Decision to Go on Academic Exchange.

PubMed

Lehmann, Wolfgang; Trower, Holly

2018-02-01

Although Canadian universities have made internationalization a strategic priority, only few Canadian students currently participate in any international study opportunities. Drawing on interviews with Canadian students who were about to spend some of their undergraduate education abroad as exchange students, or had recently returned from a study exchange, we argue that despite the importance of relatively high costs associated with international study experiences, cultural factors play a more important role in enabling the decision to study abroad. Being habitually exposed to travel in one's family, and having been encouraged to travel independently as a teenager or young adult emerge as important precursors to our participants' decision to take part in study exchanges. Although one needs to engage critically with university administrators' current preoccupation with internationalization, being exposed to an extended time abroad has shown to have positive effects, especially for otherwise underprivileged students. Given the exploratory nature of this study, we conclude with suggestions for further research aimed at confirming our findings and developing policy. © 2018 Canadian Sociological Association/La Société canadienne de sociologie.

How much can a large population study on genes, environments, their interactions and common diseases contribute to the health of the American people?

PubMed

Chaufan, Claudia

2007-10-01

I offer a critical perspective on a large-scale population study on gene-environment interactions and common diseases proposed by the US Secretary of Health and Human Services' Advisory Committee on Genetics, Health, and Society (SACGHS). I argue that for scientific and policy reasons this and similar studies have little to add to current knowledge about how to prevent, treat, or decrease inequalities in common diseases, all of which are major claims of the proposal. I use diabetes as an exemplar of the diseases that the study purports to illuminate. I conclude that the question is not whether the study will meet expectations or whether the current emphasis on a genetic paradigm is real or imagined, desirable or not. Rather, the question is why, given the flaws of the science underwriting the study, its assumptions remain unchallenged. Future research should investigate the reasons for this immunity from criticism and for the popularity of this and similar projects among laypersons as well as among intellectuals.

National Assessment of Writing: Useless and Uninteresting?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Maxwell, John C.

1973-01-01

Points out flaws in the current National Assessment of Writing model and its results, but concludes that the National Assessment is a step in the right direction. (RB) Aspect of National Assessment (NAEP) dealt with in this document: Procedures (Exercise Development).

CAN WE SUSTAIN WILD SALMON THROUGH 2100? THE SALMON 2100 PROJECT

EPA Science Inventory

abstract for presentation Many experts have concluded that wild salmon recovery efforts in western North America (especially California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and southern British Columbia), as earnest, expensive, and socially disruptive as they currently are, do not appe...

Democratic Postsecondary Vocational Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Molnar, Christopher J.

2010-01-01

This dissertation offers a critique of current approaches to postsecondary vocational education. It concludes that the traditional apprenticeship and didactic model leads to inadequate preparation of students for independent thinking and problem solving. An alternative model is proposed that uses "democratic education" principles. These include…

Application of imaging techniques to evaluate polishing characteristics of aggregates : final report.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

2016-12-01

Previous research conducted at the University of Florida (UF) to investigate the use of the Aggregate Image Measurement System (AIMS) and Micro-Deval (MD) to evaluate frictional performance of aggregates concluded that the current AIMS system cannot ...

Alternatives for energy conservation in roadway lighting.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1979-01-01

From a review of some of the possible methods of conserving energy in the operation of roadway lighting, with due consideration being given to traffic operations and safety under the current energy scenario, it was concluded that the most favorable c...

Practicing health promotion in primary care -a reflective enquiry.

PubMed

Pati, S; Chauhan, A S; Mahapatra, S; Sinha, R; Pati, S

2017-12-01

Health promotion is an integral part of routine clinical practice. The physicians' role in improving the health status of the general population, through effective understanding and delivery of health promotion practice, is evident throughout the international literature. Data from India suggest that physicians have limited skills in delivering specific health promotion services. However, the data available on this is scarce. This study was planned to document the current health promotion knowledge, perception and practices of local primary care physicians in Odisha. An exploratory study was planned between the months of January - February 2013 in Odisha among primary care physicians working in government set up. This exploratory study was conducted, using a two-step self-administered questionnaire, thirty physicians practicing under government health system were asked to map their ideal and current health promotion practice, and potential health promotion elements to be worked upon to enhance the practice. The study recorded a significant difference between the mean of current and ideal health promotion practices. The study reported that physicians want to increase their practice on health education. We concluded that inclusion of health promotion practices in routine care is imperative for a strong healthcare system. It should be incorporated as a structured health promotion module in medical curriculum as well.

Microprocessor in controlled transdermal drug delivery of anti-cancer drugs.

PubMed

Chandrashekar, N S; Shobha Rani, R H

2009-12-01

Microprocessor controlled transdermal delivery of anticancer drugs 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and 6-Mercaptopurine (6-MP) was developed and in vitro evaluation was done. Drugs were loaded based on the pharmacokinetics parameters. In vitro diffusion studies were carried at different current density (0.0, 0.1, 0.22, 0.50 mA/cm2). The patches were evaluated for the drug content, thickness, weight, folding endurance, flatness, thumb tack test and adhesive properties all were well with in the specification of transdermal patches with elegant and transparent in appearance. In vitro permeation studies through human cadaver skin showed, passive delivery (0.0 mA/cm2) of 6-MP was low. As the current density was progressively increased, the flux also increased. the flux also increased with 0.1 mA/cm2 for 15-20 min, but it was less than desired flux, 0.2 mA/cm2 for 30 min showed better flux than 0.1 mA/cm2 current, but lag time was more than 4 h, 0.5 mA/cm2 current for more than 1 h, flux was >159 microg/cm2 h which was desired flux for 6-MP. 5-FU flux reached the minimum effective concentration (MEC) of 54 microg/cm2 h with 0.5 mA/cm2 current for 30-45 min, drug concentration were within the therapeutic window in post-current phase. We concluded from Ohm's Law that as the resistance decreases, current increases. Skin resistance decrease with increase in time and current, increase in the drug permeation. Interestingly, for all investigated current densities, as soon as the current was switched off, 5-FU and 6-MP flux decreased fairly, but the controlled drug delivery can be achieved by switching the current for required period of time.

Debris Motion and Injury Relationships in All Hazard Environments

DTIC Science & Technology

1976-07-01

reaction, limit of voluntary tolerance, injury threshold, LD5 0 value, limit of survival, etc. Our current state of knowledge concerning human impact...of-the-art review of "Human Impact Tolerance" up to approximately August 1970. Snyder concludes that current knowledge on human tolerance to impact...children and adults, suicides, high divers, skiers etc. have occurred and are reported in the literature (Refs. 19, 20, 21). With the objective of

Josephson A/D Converter Development.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-10-01

by Zappe and A Landman [20]. They conclude that the simple model of the Josephson effect is applicable up to frequencies at least as high (a) as 300...GHz. B. Time-Domain Experiments 4ooF so The early high - frequency experiments with Josephson devices I .O suggested their use as very fast logic switches...exactly as for the phenomenological model . The tunneling pacitive current paths dominate the circuit at high frequencies . current is the sum of two

78 FR 30951 - SBIR/STTR Phase I to Phase II Transition Benchmarks

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-05-23

... (NIST) 0.25 5 DOC (NOAA) 0.25 5 NASA 0.25 5 DHS 0.25 5 DOE 0.25 5 EPA 0.25 5 DoD 0.25 5 NSF 0.25 5 DOT 0... for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Education (ED) from the current... used by EPA and ED for this benchmark calculation is currently 10 years. EPA and ED have concluded that...

Seeds of doubt: Mendel's choice of Hieracium to study inheritance, a case of right plant, wrong trait.

PubMed

Bicknell, Ross; Catanach, Andrew; Hand, Melanie; Koltunow, Anna

2016-12-01

In this review, we explore Gregor Mendel's hybridization experiments with Hieracium , update current knowledge on apomictic reproduction and describe approaches now being used to develop true-breeding hybrid crops. From our perspective, it is easy to conclude that Gregor Mendel's work on pea was insightful, but his peers clearly did not regard it as being either very convincing or of much importance. One apparent criticism was that his findings only applied to pea. We know from a letter he wrote to Carl von Nägeli, a leading botanist, that he believed he needed to "verify, with other plants, the results obtained with Pisum". For this purpose, Mendel adopted Hieracium subgenus Pilosella, a phenotypically diverse taxon under botanical study at the time. What Mendel could not have known, however, is that the majority of these plants are not sexual plants like pea, but instead are facultatively apomictic. In these forms, the majority of seed arises asexually, and such progeny are, therefore, clones of the maternal parent. Mendel obtained very few hybrids in his Hieracium crosses, yet we calculate that he probably emasculated in excess of 5000 Hieracium florets to even obtain the numbers he did. Despite that effort, he was perplexed by the results, and they ultimately led him to conclude that "the hybrids of Hieracium show a behaviour exactly opposite to those of Pisum". Apomixis is now a topic of intense research interest, and in an ironic twist of history, Hieracium subgenus Pilosella has been developed as a molecular model to study this trait. In this paper, we explore further Mendel's hybridization experiments with Hieracium, update current knowledge on apomictic reproduction and describe approaches now being used to develop true-breeding hybrid crops.

Kinetic Studies of Thin Current Sheets at Magnetosheath Jets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eriksson, E.; Vaivads, A.; Khotyaintsev, Y. V.; Graham, D. B.; Yordanova, E.; Hietala, H.; Markidis, S.; Giles, B. L.; Andre, M.; Russell, C. T.; Le Contel, O.; Burch, J. L.

2017-12-01

In near-Earth space one of the most turbulent plasma environments is the magnetosheath (MSH) downstream of the quasi-parallel shock. The particle acceleration and plasma thermalization processes there are still not fully understood. Regions of strong localized currents are believed to play a key role in those processes. The Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission has sufficiently high cadence to study these processes in detail. We present details of studies of two different events that contain strong current regions inside the MSH downstream of the quasi-parallel shock. In both cases the shape of the current region is in the form of a sheet, however they show internal 3D structure on the scale of the spacecraft separation (15 and 20 km, respectively). Both current sheets have a normal magnetic field component different from zero indicating that the regions at the different sides of the current sheets are magnetically connected. Both current sheets are boundaries between two different plasma regions. Furthermore, both current sheets are observed at MSH jets. These jets are characterized by localized dynamic pressure being larger than the solar wind dynamic pressure. One current sheet does not seem to be reconnecting while the other shows reconnection signatures. Inside the non-reconnecting current sheet we observe locally accelerated electron beams along the magnetic field. At energies above the beam energy we observe a loss cone consistent with part of the hot MSH-like electrons escaping into the colder solar wind-like plasma. This suggests that the acceleration process within this current sheet is similar to the one that occurs at the bow shock, where electron beams and loss cones are also observed. Therefore, we conclude that electron beams observed in the MSH do not have to originate from the bow shock, but can also be generated locally inside the MSH. The reconnecting current sheet also shows signs of thermalization and electron acceleration processes that are discussed in detail.

A Pilot Study of the Effectiveness of Augmented Reality to Enhance the Use of Remote Labs in Electrical Engineering Education

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mejías Borrero, A.; Andújar Márquez, J. M.

2012-10-01

Lab practices are an essential part of teaching in Engineering. However, traditional laboratory lessons developed in classroom labs (CL) must be adapted to teaching and learning strategies that go far beyond the common concept of e-learning, in the sense that completely virtualized distance education disconnects teachers and students from the real world, which can generate specific problems in laboratory classes. Current proposals of virtual labs (VL) and remote labs (RL) do not either cover new needs properly or contribute remarkable improvement to traditional labs—except that they favor distance training. Therefore, online teaching and learning in lab practices demand a further step beyond current VL and RL. This paper poses a new reality and new teaching/learning concepts in the field of lab practices in engineering. The developed augmented reality-based lab system (augmented remote lab, ARL) enables teachers and students to work remotely (Internet/intranet) in current CL, including virtual elements which interact with real ones. An educational experience was conducted to assess the developed ARL with the participation of a group of 10 teachers and another group of 20 students. Both groups have completed lab practices of the contents in the subjects Digital Systems and Robotics and Industrial Automation, which belong to the second year of the new degree in Electronic Engineering (adapted to the European Space for Higher Education). The labs were carried out by means of three different possibilities: CL, VL and ARL. After completion, both groups were asked to fill in some questionnaires aimed at measuring the improvement contributed by ARL relative to CL and VL. Except in some specific questions, the opinion of teachers and students was rather similar and positive regarding the use and possibilities of ARL. Although the results are still preliminary and need further study, seems to conclude that ARL remarkably improves the possibilities of current VL and RL. Furthermore, ARL can be concluded to allow further possibilities when used online than traditional laboratory lessons completed in CL.

[The Philosophical Relevance of the Study of Schizophrenia. Methodological and Conceptual Issues].

PubMed

López-Silva, Pablo

2014-01-01

The study of mental illness involves profound methodological and philosophical debates. This article explores the disciplinary complementarity, particularly, between philosophy of mind, phenomenology, and empirical studies in psychiatry and psychopathology in the context of the understanding of schizophrenia. After clarifying the possible role of these disciplines, it is explored the way in which a certain symptom of schizophrenia (thought insertion) challenges the current phenomenological approach to the relationship between consciousness and self-awareness. Finally, it is concluded that philosophy of mind, phenomenology, and empirical studies in psychiatry and psychopathology should, necessarily, regulate their progress jointly in order to reach plausible conclusions about what we call 'schizophrenia'. Crown Copyright © 2014. Publicado por Elsevier España. All rights reserved.

WILD SALMON IN WESTERN NORTH AMERICA; THE HISTORICAL AND POLICY CONTEXT

EPA Science Inventory

Nearly all of the participants in the Salmon 2100 Project concluded that wild salmon recovery efforts in western North America (especially California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and southern British Columbia), as earnest, expensive, and socially disruptive as they currently are, ...

Critical evaluation of key evidence on the human health hazards of exposure to bisphenol A

PubMed Central

Hengstler, JG; Foth, H; Gebel, T; Kramer, P-J; Lilienblum, W; Schweinfurth, H; Völkel, W; Wollin, K-M; Gundert-Remy, U

2011-01-01

Despite the fact that more than 5000 safety-related studies have been published on bisphenol A (BPA), there seems to be no resolution of the apparently deadlocked controversy as to whether exposure of the general population to BPA causes adverse effects due to its estrogenicity. Therefore, the Advisory Committee of the German Society of Toxicology reviewed the background and cutting-edge topics of this BPA controversy. The current tolerable daily intake value (TDI) of 0.05 mg/kg body weight [bw]/day, derived by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), is mainly based on body weight changes in two- and three-generation studies in mice and rats. Recently, these studies and the derivation of the TDI have been criticized. After having carefully considered all arguments, the Committee had to conclude that the criticism was scientifically not justified; moreover, recently published additional data further support the reliability of the two-and three-generation studies demonstrating a lack of estrogen-dependent effects at and below doses on which the current TDI is based. A frequently discussed topic is whether doses below 5 mg/ kg bw/day may cause adverse health effects in laboratory animals. Meanwhile, it has become clear that positive results from some explorative studies have not been confirmed in subsequent studies with higher numbers of animals or a priori defined hypotheses. Particularly relevant are some recent studies with negative outcomes that addressed effects of BPA on the brain, behavior, and the prostate in rodents for extrapolation to the human situation. The Committee came to the conclusion that rodent data can well be used as a basis for human risk evaluation. Currently published conjectures that rats are insensitive to estrogens compared to humans can be refuted. Data from toxicokinetics studies show that the half-life of BPA in adult human subjects is less than 2 hours and BPA is completely recovered in urine as BPA-conjugates. Tissue deconjugation of BPA-glucuronide and -sulfate may occur. Because of the extremely low quantities, it is only of minor relevance for BPA toxicity. Biomonitoring studies have been used to estimate human BPA exposure and show that the daily intake of BPA is far below the TDI for the general population. Further topics addressed in this article include reasons why some studies on BPA are not reproducible; the relevance of oral versus non-oral exposure routes; the degree to which newborns are at higher systemic BPA exposure; increased BPA exposure by infusions in intensive care units; mechanisms of action other than estrogen receptor activation; and the current regulatory status in Europe, as well as in the USA, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, and Australia. Overall, the Committee concluded that the current TDI for BPA is adequately justified and that the available evidence indicates that BPA exposure represents no noteworthy risk to the health of the human population, including newborns and babies. PMID:21438738

GTP-Binding Proteins Inhibit cAMP Activation of Chloride Channels in Cystic Fibrosis Airway Epithelial Cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schwiebert, Erik M.; Kizer, Neil; Gruenert, Dieter C.; Stanton, Bruce A.

1992-11-01

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease characterized, in part, by defective regulation of Cl^- secretion by airway epithelial cells. In CF, cAMP does not activate Cl^- channels in the apical membrane of airway epithelial cells. We report here whole-cell patch-clamp studies demonstrating that pertussis toxin, which uncouples heterotrimeric GTP-binding proteins (G proteins) from their receptors, and guanosine 5'-[β-thio]diphosphate, which prevents G proteins from interacting with their effectors, increase Cl^- currents and restore cAMP-activated Cl^- currents in airway epithelial cells isolated from CF patients. In contrast, the G protein activators guanosine 5'-[γ-thio]triphosphate and AlF^-_4 reduce Cl^- currents and inhibit cAMP from activating Cl^- currents in normal airway epithelial cells. In CF cells treated with pertussis toxin or guanosine 5'-[β-thio]diphosphate and in normal cells, cAMP activates a Cl^- conductance that has properties similar to CF transmembrane-conductance regulator Cl^- channels. We conclude that heterotrimeric G proteins inhibit cAMP-activated Cl^- currents in airway epithelial cells and that modulation of the inhibitory G protein signaling pathway may have the therapeutic potential for improving cAMP-activated Cl^- secretion in CF.

An ionization region model of the reactive Ar/O2 high power impulse magnetron sputtering discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gudmundsson, J. T.; Lundin, D.; Brenning, N.; Raadu, M. A.; Huo, Chunqing; Minea, T. M.

2016-12-01

A new reactive ionization region model (R-IRM) is developed to describe the reactive Ar/O2 high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS) discharge with a titanium target. It is then applied to study the temporal behavior of the discharge plasma parameters such as electron density, the neutral and ion composition, the ionization fraction of the sputtered vapor, the oxygen dissociation fraction, and the composition of the discharge current. We study and compare the discharge properties when the discharge is operated in the two well established operating modes, the metal mode and the poisoned mode. Experimentally, it is found that in the metal mode the discharge current waveform displays a typical non-reactive evolution, while in the poisoned mode the discharge current waveform becomes distinctly triangular and the current increases significantly. Using the R-IRM we explore the current increase and find that when the discharge is operated in the metal mode Ar+ and Ti+ -ions contribute most significantly (roughly equal amounts) to the discharge current while in the poisoned mode the Ar+ -ions contribute most significantly to the discharge current and the contribution of O+ -ions, Ti+ -ions, and secondary electron emission is much smaller. Furthermore, we find that recycling of atoms coming from the target, that are subsequently ionized, is required for the current generation in both modes of operation. From the R-IRM results it is found that in the metal mode self-sputter recycling dominates and in the poisoned mode working gas recycling dominates. We also show that working gas recycling can lead to very high discharge currents but never to a runaway. It is concluded that the dominating type of recycling determines the discharge current waveform.

Transcranial electric stimulation for the investigation of speech perception and comprehension

PubMed Central

Zoefel, Benedikt; Davis, Matthew H.

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Transcranial electric stimulation (tES), comprising transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), involves applying weak electrical current to the scalp, which can be used to modulate membrane potentials and thereby modify neural activity. Critically, behavioural or perceptual consequences of this modulation provide evidence for a causal role of neural activity in the stimulated brain region for the observed outcome. We present tES as a tool for the investigation of which neural responses are necessary for successful speech perception and comprehension. We summarise existing studies, along with challenges that need to be overcome, potential solutions, and future directions. We conclude that, although standardised stimulation parameters still need to be established, tES is a promising tool for revealing the neural basis of speech processing. Future research can use this method to explore the causal role of brain regions and neural processes for the perception and comprehension of speech. PMID:28670598

Noise Properties of Rectifying Nanopore

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Vlassiouk, Ivan V

2011-01-01

Ion currents through three types of rectifying nanoporous structures are studied and compared: conically shaped polymer nanopores, glass nanopipettes, and silicon nitride nanopores. Time signals of ion currents are analyzed by the power spectrum. We focus on the low-frequency range where the power spectrum magnitude scales with frequency, f, as 1/f. Glass nanopipettes and polymer nanopores exhibit nonequilibrium 1/f noise; thus, the normalized power spectrum depends on the voltage polarity and magnitude. In contrast, 1/f noise in rectifying silicon nitride nanopores is of equilibrium character. Various mechanisms underlying the voltage-dependent 1/f noise are explored and discussed, including intrinsic pore wallmore » dynamics and formation of vortices and nonlinear flow patterns in the pore. Experimental data are supported by modeling of ion currents based on the coupled Poisson-Nernst-Planck and Navier-Stokes equations. We conclude that the voltage-dependent 1/f noise observed in polymer and glass asymmetric nanopores might result from high and asymmetric electric fields, inducing secondary effects in the pore, such as enhanced water dissociation.« less

Magnetosphere-Ionosphere Coupling and Associated Ring Current Energization Processes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Liemohn, M. W.; Khazanov, G. V.

2004-01-01

Adiabatic processes in the ring current are examined. In particular, an analysis of the factors that parameterize the net adiabatic energy gain in the inner magnetosphere during magnetic storms is presented. A single storm was considered, that of April 17, 2002. Three simulations were conducted with similar boundary conditions but with different electric field descriptions. It is concluded that the best parameter for quantifying the net adiabatic energy gain in the inner magnetosphere during storms is the instantaneous value of the product of the maximum westward electric field at the outer simulation boundary with the nightside plasma sheet density. However, all of the instantaneous magnetospheric quantities considered in this study produced large correlation coefficients. Therefore, they all could be considered useful predictors of the net adiabatic energy gain of the ring current. Long integration times over the parameters lessen the significance of the correlation. Finally, some significant differences exist in the correlation coefficients depending on the electric field description.

Modelling of electric characteristics of 150-watt peak solar panel using Boltzmann sigmoid function under various temperature and irradiance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sapteka, A. A. N. G.; Narottama, A. A. N. M.; Winarta, A.; Amerta Yasa, K.; Priambodo, P. S.; Putra, N.

2018-01-01

Solar energy utilized with solar panel is a renewable energy that needs to be studied further. The site nearest to the equator, it is not surprising, receives the highest solar energy. In this paper, a modelling of electrical characteristics of 150-Watt peak solar panels using Boltzmann sigmoid function under various temperature and irradiance is reported. Current, voltage, temperature and irradiance data in Denpasar, a city located at just south of equator, was collected. Solar power meter is used to measure irradiance level, meanwhile digital thermometer is used to measure temperature of front and back panels. Short circuit current and open circuit voltage data was also collected at different temperature and irradiance level. Statistically, the electrical characteristics of 150-Watt peak solar panel can be modelled using Boltzmann sigmoid function with good fit. Therefore, it can be concluded that Boltzmann sigmoid function might be used to determine current and voltage characteristics of 150-Watt peak solar panel under various temperature and irradiance.

Stormwater quality management in rail transportation--past, present and future.

PubMed

Vo, Phuong Tram; Ngo, Huu Hao; Guo, Wenshan; Zhou, John L; Listowski, Andrzej; Du, Bin; Wei, Qin; Bui, Xuan Thanh

2015-04-15

Railways currently play an important role in sustainable transportation systems, owing to their substantial carrying capacity, environmental friendliness and land-saving advantages. Although total pollutant emissions from railway systems are far less than that of automobile vehicles, the pollution from railway operations should not be underestimated. To date, both scientific and practical papers dealing with stormwater management for rail tracks have solely focused on its drainage function. Unlike roadway transport, the potential of stormwater pollution from railway operations is currently mishandled. There have been very few studies into the impact of its operations on water quality. Hence, upon the realisation on the significance of nonpoint source pollution, stormwater management priorities should have been re-evaluated. This paper provides an examination of past and current practices of stormwater management in the railway industry, potential sources of stormwater pollution, obstacles faced in stormwater management and concludes with strategies for future management directions. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Dynamic Harris current sheet thickness from Cluster current density and plasma measurements

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thompson, S. M.; Kivelson, M. G.; Khurana, K. K.; McPherron, R. L.; Weygand, J. M.; Balogh, A.; Reme, H.; Kistler, L. M.

2005-01-01

We use the first accurate measurements of current densities in the plasma sheet to calculate the half-thickness and position of the current sheet as a function of time. Our technique assumes a Harris current sheet model, which is parameterized by lobe magnetic field B(o), current sheet half-thickness h, and current sheet position z(sub o). Cluster measurements of magnetic field, current density, and plasma pressure are used to infer the three parameters as a function of time. We find that most long timescale (6-12 hours) current sheet crossings observed by Cluster cannot be described by a static Harris current sheet with a single set of parameters B(sub o), h, and z(sub o). Noting the presence of high-frequency fluctuations that appear to be superimposed on lower frequency variations, we average over running 6-min intervals and use the smoothed data to infer the parameters h(t) and z(sub o)(t), constrained by the pressure balance lobe magnetic field B(sub o)(t). Whereas this approach has been used in previous studies, the spatial gnuhen& now provided by the Cluster magnetometers were unavailable or not well constrained in earlier studies. We place the calculated hdf&cknessa in a magnetospheric context by examining the change in thickness with substorm phase for three case study events and 21 events in a superposed epoch analysis. We find that the inferred half-thickness in many cases reflects the nominal changes experienced by the plasma sheet during substorms (i.e., thinning during growth phase, thickening following substorm onset). We conclude with an analysis of the relative contribution of (Delta)B(sub z)/(Delta)X to the cross-tail current density during substorms. We find that (Delta)B(sub z)/(Delta)X can contribute a significant portion of the cross-tail c m n t around substorm onset.

Malaysia's Experience in the Monitoring of Investment and Results of Water Resources Management

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zakaria, Salmah Binti; Lee, Jin

2010-05-01

The current status of IWRM implementation in Malaysia, overview of development planning process and financial allocations together with monitoring of IWRM in Malaysia are first presented. This is followed by a case study review of Malaysia's 9th 5-year Development Plan (2005-2010) so as to provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the current approach adopted by the Malaysian government in the formulation of development policies, project planning, budget allocation and o monitoring of projects. Arising from the review it was highlighted that the water-related, sectoral developmental objectives are found in all the 5 developmental thrusts in the 9th Malaysia Plan. This is because water is an essential natural resource and is also an economic good. Thus, it was concluded that in order for the monitoring of investments in IWRM and results to be effective and useful to support policy formulation to achieve the goal of IWRM there is a need for a collation of all information reported under the different, water-related, sectoral developmental objectives in the 9th Malaysia Plan to be organised within an IWRM framework. It was also concluded that a major IWRM challenge for Malaysia is how to make the transition from the current, narrow, sector-specific, financial and budgeting paradigm of the sectorial agencies to the “total cost” paradigm that involves taking into consideration and integrating the costs in other sectors affected by any projects proposed within a sector. The current, sectorial-focus approach, adopted in the 9th Malaysia Plan, logically measures the effectiveness of sectorial agencies by their ability to achieve their immediate sectorial goals and targets, most often with emphasis on infrastructure projects since the impacts of such projects are usually immediate and visible. However, the use of such approach alone, without taking into account the costs that are borne by other interfacing sectors, and also within the sector over the long term, is unsustainable.

Adrenomedullin increases the short-circuit current in the mouse seminal vesicle: actions on chloride secretion.

PubMed

Liao, S B; Cheung, K H; O, W S; Tang, Fai

2014-08-01

Adrenomedullin (ADM) may regulate seminal vesicle fluid secretion, and this may affect sperm quality. In this study, we investigated the effect of ADM on chloride secretion in the mouse seminal vesicle. The presence of ADM in mouse seminal vesicle was confirmed using immunostaining, and the molecular species was determined using gel filtration chromatography coupled with enzyme-linked assay for ADM. The effects of ADM on chloride secretion were studied by short-circuit current technique in a whole-mount preparation of mouse seminal vesicle in an Ussing chamber. The effects of specific ADM and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonists were investigated. Whether the ADM effect depended on the cAMP- and/or calcium-activated chloride channel was also studied using specific chloride channel blockers. The results showed that ADM was present in seminal vesicle epithelial cells. The major molecular species was precursor in the mouse seminal vesicle. ADM increased short-circuit current through the calcium-activated chloride channel in mouse seminal vesicle, and CGRP receptor was involved. We conclude that ADM may regulate chloride and fluid secretion from the seminal vesicle, which may affect the composition of the seminal plasma bathing the sperm and, hence, fertility. © 2014 by the Society for the Study of Reproduction, Inc.

Generation of the displacement current by the transformation of J-aggregates in spreading monolayers of squarylium dye

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iwamoto, Mitsumasa; Majima, Yutaka; Hirayama, Fuminori; Furuki, Makoto; Pu, Lyong Sun

1992-07-01

Maxwell displacement currents generated from monolayers of squarylium dye with propyl groups (SQ) and from mixed monolayers with arachidic acid were investigated during the course of monolayer compression in connection with the formation of J-aggregates in the monolayers. Abrupt changes in the generation of displacement current were observed for monolayers of SQ due to the transformation between two types of J-aggregates with different absorption spectra. In contrast, for mixed monolayers with arachidic acid which show no transition of J-aggregates, abrupt changes in the displacement current were not observed. It was concluded that displacement current measurement is effective in the detection of the transformation of the molecular arrangement in aggregates.

BoF - Python in Astronomy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barrett, P. E.

This BoF will be chaired by Paul Barrett and will begin with an introduction to Python in astronomy, be followed by reports of current Python projects, and conclude with a discussion about the current state of Python in astronomy. The introduction will give a brief overview of the language, highlighting modules, resources, and aspects of the language that are important to scientific programming and astronomical data analysis. The closing discussion will provide an opportunity for questions and comments.

FDA's regulation of tanning beds: how much heat?

PubMed

Knapp, Veronica

2011-01-01

This paper considers the problem of indoor tanning bed use by teenagers. The paper explores FDA's current authority to regulate tanning lamps as Class I medical devices, concluding that FDA's authority is poorly tailored to affect teenagers' repeated use of these products. An outright ban is unlikely; therefore, the best available options are to regulate access by minors and to amend the warning label requirements to reflect the current state of knowledge about the risks of tanning bed use.

Plagiarism: A Shared Responsibility of All, Current Situation, and Future Actions in Yemen.

PubMed

Muthanna, Abdulghani

2016-01-01

As combating plagiarism is a shared responsibility of all, this article focuses on presenting the current situation of higher education in Yemen. The critical review of four implementable policy documents and interviews revealed the absence of research ethics code, research misconduct policy, and institutional policies in the country. This led to the presence of several acts of research dishonesty. The article concludes with an initiative for necessary future actions in the nation.

Current status of the joint Mayo Clinic-IBM PACS project

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hangiandreou, Nicholas J.; Williamson, Byrn, Jr.; Gehring, Dale G.; Persons, Kenneth R.; Reardon, Frank J.; Salutz, James R.; Felmlee, Joel P.; Loewen, M. D.; Forbes, Glenn S.

1994-05-01

A multi-phase collaboration between Mayo Clinic and IBM-Rochester was undertaken, with the goal of developing a picture archiving and communication system for routine clinical use in the Radiology Department. The initial phase of this project (phase 0) was started in 1988. The current system has been fully integrated into the clinical practice and, to date, over 6.5 million images from 16 imaging modalities have been archived. Phase 3 of this project has recently concluded.

Soil impact on the radial growth of Taxodium ( Taxodium distichum (L.) Rich.) in Serbia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jokanovic, D.; Popovic, V.; Vilotic, D.; Mitrovic, S.; Brasanac-Bosanac, Lj.

2012-04-01

This work presents results of analyzed radial development, quantity of radial growth and soil factors in two plantations in Serbia. One of them is located close to Backa Palanka area, and the other is in Belgrade , area of a big war island. Both of them were established at the same type of soil. The research was conducted on 27 years old trees. For both of these locations there were a number of dates which were measured, such as physical-chemical characteristics of the soil and current radial growth that was measured among 20 % widest trees - those parameters were the most important. By comparison between values and form of a current radial growth it was concluded that Taxodium trees in a plantation near Backa Palanka have a culmination of a current radial growth a bit earlier and with some bigger values than those that originate from Belgrade - big war island. There was compared radial development and it was concluded that the trees from Backa Palanka reach bigger radial values than those from Belgrade - big war island at the same age as well. There were some differences between these locations based on physical-chemical analyze conducted on a soil, so the differences in a radial development, form and values of a current radial growth can be explained with a soil influence, and it will be proofed over the following period in this scientific research.

Comment on ‘The most energy efficient way to charge the capacitor in a RC circuit’

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oven, R.

2018-07-01

In a recent paper, Wang (2017 Phys. Educ. 52 065019), a comparison was made between the efficiency in charging a capacitor (C) in series with a resistor (R) using either a voltage source or a constant current source. The paper concluded that using a current source was more efficient. We show that this is not correct when the energy loss within the current source is considered. It is also shown that the energy loss is not dependent on the charging rate. A formal proof using calculus and simpler graphical arguments are presented.

Boundary current-controlled turbidite deposition: A sedimentation model for the Southern Nares Abyssal Plain, Western North Atlantic

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuijpers, A.; Duin, E. J. Th.

1986-03-01

Examination of 38 sediment cores, bottom photographs, 7,000 km of 3.5 kHz reflection profiles and other seismic data from the southern part of the Nares Abyssal Plain suggests that complex sedimentary patterns and high sedimentation rates can be largely attributed to effects of a deep boundary current flowing eastward along the north flank of the Greater Antilles Outer Ridge. It is concluded that the areal dispersal pattern of turbidites on the plain results mainly from Quaternary climatically-induced fluctuations of the boundary current intensity.

Numerical modeling of the energy storage and release in solar flares

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wu, S. T.; Weng, F. S.

1993-01-01

This paper reports on investigation of the photospheric magnetic field-line footpoint motion (usually referred to as shear motion) and magnetic flux emerging from below the surface in relation to energy storage in a solar flare. These causality relationships are demonstrated by using numerical magnetohydrodynamic simulations. From these results, one may conclude that the energy stored in solar flares is in the form of currents. The dynamic process through which these currents reach a critical value is discussed as well as how these currents lead to energy release, such as the explosive events of solar flares.

Current advances in targeted therapies for metastatic gastric cancer: improving patient care.

PubMed

Aguiar, Pedro Nazareth; Muniz, Thiago Pimentel; Miranda, Raelson Rodrigues; Tadokoro, Hakaru; Forones, Nora Manoukian; Monteiro, Ines-de-Paula; Castelo-Branco, Pedro; Janjigian, Yelena Y; De Mello, Ramon Andrade

2016-03-01

In this article, we review the literature on the current advances in targeted therapies for metastatic gastric cancer aimed at improving patient care. We conclude that the key to guiding targeted therapy is individual biomarkers, which are not completely elucidated. HER2 overexpression is the only predictive biomarker currently in use. Furthermore, it is necessary to understand that gastric tumors are heterogeneous; therefore, is impossible to evaluate a novel biological compound without evaluating personal biomarkers. The selection of patients who are able to receive each treatment is paramount for improving advanced gastric cancer survival and reducing unnecessary costs.

Stressed Ge:Ga photoconductors for space-based astronomy. (Is there life beyond 120 micron)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beeman, J. W.; Haller, E. E.; Hansen, W. L.; Luke, P. N.; Richards, P. L.

1989-01-01

Information is given in viewgraph form. Information is given on the characteristics of stressed Ge:Ga, a spring type stress cavity, mounting hardware, materials parameters affecting dark current, and the behavior of low dark current stressed Ge:Ga. It is concluded that detectors exist today for background-limited detection at 200 microns, that researchers are narrowing in on the significant parameters that effect dark current in stressed photoconductors, that these findings may be applied to other photoconductor materials, and that some creative problem solving for an ionizing effect reset mechanism is needed.

Is Moral Education Really Necessary?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phillips, D. Z.

1979-01-01

Examining current opinions of moral education, the author criticizes both the notion that moral education makes explicit the hidden values in an academic curriculum and the view that education can be value-free; concluding that schools already have the only moral educationists they need--teachers. (Author/SJL)

Agricultural Land Conversion: Background and Issues.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Furuseth, Owen J.

1982-01-01

Analyzes forces contributing to the conversion of agricultural land for other uses, causes for the depletion of the land, major issues surrounding the loss of farmland, and current policies designed to control haphazard land conversion. Concludes that the United States lacks a national farmland protection policy. (KC)

CAN WE GET THERE FROM HERE: SALMON IN THE 21ST CENTURY (SYNTHESIS CHAPTER)

EPA Science Inventory

Many experts have concluded that wild salmon recovery efforts in western North America (especially California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and southern British Columbia), as earnest, expensive, and socially disruptive as they currently are, do not appear likely to sustain biologic...

Rethinking the Principalship.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lashway, Larry

2002-01-01

The definition of the role of school principal is currently undergoing transformation in light of modern school issues and a shortage of qualified candidates. In "A Century's Quest to Understand School Leadership," Kenneth Leithwood and Daniel Duke conclude that recent thinking has focused on six forms of leadership: instructional,…

Putting it All Together: Has One-Stop Shopping Arrived?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Flanagan, Patrick

1997-01-01

Reviews the current state of "one-stop shopping" for telecom services. Discusses regulatory obstacles; administrative problems with single billing; and resistance of telecom providers to change. Concludes that the leading one-stop shopping providers will be individual carriers who offer cost savings. (AEF)

A commentary on the implementation of Virginia test method number 39 : electrical resistivity testing of waterproof membranes.

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1976-01-01

It was concluded that the electrical resistivity test was not ideally suitable as an inspection tool, but was the only currently available nondestructive test for determining the effectiveness of a waterproof membrane system. Considerable judgment an...

On the Normative Foundations of Economic Education.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Leming, James S.

1987-01-01

Reports research which indicates current economics curricula fail to significantly influence student commitment to the normative foundations of the free enterprise system. Demonstrates how schools have potential for teaching economic values to youth. Concludes economic education should include latent and manifest curricula to better develop…

Updated recommendations for managing the care of patients receiving oral bisphosphonate therapy: an advisory statement from the American Dental Association Council on Scientific Affairs.

PubMed

Edwards, Beatrice J; Hellstein, John W; Jacobsen, Peter L; Kaltman, Steven; Mariotti, Angelo; Migliorati, Cesar A

2008-12-01

and Overview. In 2005, the American Dental Association (ADA) Council on Scientific Affairs convened an expert panel to develop clinical recommendations for dentists treating patients who are receiving oral bisphosphonate therapy. The Journal of the American Dental Association published the resulting report in 2006. This 2008 advisory statement is the first of projected periodic updates of the 2006 clinical recommendations. This 2008 advisory statement concludes, on the basis of a review of the current literature, that for patients receiving bisphosphonate therapy, the risk of developing bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis (BON) of the jaw apparently remains low. It also newly concludes that current screening and diagnostic tests are unreliable for predicting a patient's risk of developing the condition. This statement updates the 2006 recommendations regarding general dentistry, management of periodontal diseases, implant placement and maintenance, oral and maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, restorative dentistry and prosthodontics, and orthodontics.

Children of Mothers with Borderline Personality Disorder: Identifying Parenting Behaviors as Potential Targets for Intervention

PubMed Central

Stepp, Stephanie D.; Whalen, Diana J.; Pilkonis, Paul A.; Hipwell, Alison E.; Levine, Michele D.

2011-01-01

Children of mothers with BPD should be considered a high-risk group given the wide array of poor psychosocial outcomes that have been found in these children. This paper describes the parenting strategies that might explain the transmission of vulnerability from mothers with BPD to their offspring, from infancy through adolescence. We conclude that oscillations between extreme forms of hostile control and passive aloofness in their interactions with their children may be unique to mothers with BPD. We provide an overview of interventions that are currently recommended for mothers and family members with BPD, namely attachment therapy and psychoeducational approaches. Based on an integration of the empirical findings on parenting and child outcomes as well as from the review of current approaches to intervention, we conclude with recommendations for treatment targets. We argue that mothers with BPD need psychoeducation regarding child development and recommended parenting practices and skills for providing consistent warmth and monitoring, including mindfulness-based parenting strategies. PMID:22299065

Energy Limits in Second Generation High-pitch Dual Source CT - Comparison in an Upper Abdominal Phantom

PubMed Central

Beeres, Martin; Bauer, Ralf W; Kerl, Josef M; Vogl, Thomas J; Lee, Clara

2015-01-01

Objectives: The aim of our study was to find out how much energy is applicable in second-generation dual source high-pitch computed tomography (CT) in imaging of the abdomen. Materials and Methods: We examined an upper abdominal phantom using a Somatom Definition Flash CT-Scanner (Siemens, Forchheim, Germany). The study protocol consisted of a scan-series at 100 kV and 120 kV. In each scan series we started with a pitch of 3.2 and reduced it in steps of 0.2, until a pitch of 1.6 was reached. The current was adjusted to the maximum the scanner could achieve. Energy values, image noise, image quality, and radiation exposure were evaluated. Results: For a pitch of 3.2 the maximum applicable current was 142 mAs at 120 kV and in 100 kV the maximum applicable current was 114 mAs. For conventional abdominal imaging, current levels of 200 to 260 mAs are generally used. To achieve similar current levels, we had to decrease the pitch to 1.8 at 100 kV — at this pitch we could perform our imaging at 204 mAs. At a pitch of 2.2 in 120 kV we could apply a current of 206 mAs. Conclusion: We conclude our study by stating that if there is a need for a higher current, we have to reduce the pitch. In a high-pitch dual source CT, we always have to remember where our main focus is, so we can adjust the pitch to the energy we need in the area of the body that has to be imaged, to find answers to the clinical question being raised. PMID:25806137

Main propulsion system test requirements for the two-engine Shuttle-C

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lynn, E. E.; Platt, G. K.

1989-01-01

The Shuttle-C is an unmanned cargo carrying derivative of the space shuttle with optional two or three space shuttle main engines (SSME's), whereas the shuttle has three SSME's. Design and operational differences between the Shuttle-C and shuttle were assessed to determine requirements for additional main propulsion system (MPS) verification testing. Also, reviews were made of the shuttle main propulsion test program objectives and test results and shuttle flight experience. It was concluded that, if significant MPS modifications are not made beyond those currently planned, then main propulsion system verification can be concluded with an on-pad flight readiness firing.

An assessment of traditional Uighur medicine in current Xinjiang region (China).

PubMed

Ma, Zhi Qiao; Hu, Hao; He, Tian Tian; Guo, Hong; Zhang, Mao Yu; Chen, Mei Wan; Wang, Yi Tao

2014-01-01

The main objectives of this study were to assess the current research and development of traditional Uighur medicine in Xinjiang (China), and to evaluate the promising pharmacological products of traditional Uighur medicine for further studies. Traditional Uighur medicine data of medicine registry, patent, and academic publications was collected and analyzed. Data showed that, among the registered and studied traditional Uighur medicine, the main therapeutic areas of traditional Uighur medicine focused on skin disease, urogenital disease, rheumatism and digestive system disease. The representative traditional Uighur patent medicine included the following: BaixuanXiatare Tablets, Kaliziran Tincture and Vernoniaanthelmintica Injection (Psoriasis and vitiligo); Xi-payimazibiziLiquid (prostatitis); KursiKaknaq (urinary tract infection); Tongzhisurunjiang Capsules (anti-rheumatism medicine); HuganBuzure Granules (digestive system disease). Moreover, ten Uighur herbs were widely used, including: ResinaScammoniae, Folium FumicisDentati, HerbaDracocephali, Semen AmygdaliDulcis, HerbaChamomillae, FructusPimpinellaeanisi, Cortex Foeniculi, FructusVernoniae, FructusApii, and Radix AnacycliPyrethri. This study concluded by indicating that traditional Uighur medicine with excellent curative effect should be screened in details for their phytochemical properties and pharmacological activity to discover new bioactive constituents.

Narrative synthesis of equine-assisted psychotherapy literature: Current knowledge and future research directions.

PubMed

Lee, Ping-Tzu; Dakin, Emily; McLure, Merinda

2016-05-01

Equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP) is an innovative emerging approach to mental health treatment. This narrative synthesis explores the current state of knowledge and areas for future research in EAP. Specifically reviewed are qualitative and quantitative empirical studies, including both articles published in peer-reviewed journals and research presented in theses and dissertations. We selected 24 studies for final inclusion in this study, dating between 2005 and 2013, and including the first EAP empirical research completed in 2005. Four of these studies are peer-reviewed journal articles, while 20 are master's theses or doctoral dissertations. The reviewed qualitative research provides initial evidence for the value of EAP for enhancing adolescents' communication and relationship skills. The reviewed experimental and quasi-experimental research provides initial evidence for the value of EAP for enhancing children's and adolescents' emotional, social and behavioural functioning. Yet, conclusions about the effectiveness of EAP must still be considered preliminary due to various methodological limitations in the reviewed research. The narrative review describes these methodological limitations and concludes with recommendations for future research. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Clinical recommendations of Cochrane reviews in pediatric gastroenterology: systematic analysis.

PubMed

Goda, Yvonne; Sauer, Harald; Schöndorf, Dominik; Hennes, Pia; Gortner, Ludwig; Gräber, Stefan; Meyer, Sascha

2015-01-01

Systematic and up-to-date Cochrane reviews in pediatrics in general and in pediatric gastroenterology in particular are important tools in disseminating the best available evidence to the medical community, thus providing the physician at the bedside with invaluable information and recommendations with regard to specific clinical questions. A systematic literature review was conducted, including all Cochrane reviews published by the Cochrane Review Group in the field of pediatric gastroenterology between 1993 and 2012, with regard to the percentage of reviews that concluded that a certain intervention provided a benefit, percentage of reviews that concluded that a certain intervention should not be performed, and percentage of studies that concluded that the current level of evidence was inconclusive. In total, 86 reviews in the field of pediatric gastroenterology were included. The majority of reviews assessed pharmacological interventions (46/86); other important fields included prevention (15/86) and nutrition (9/86). A total of 33/86 reviews issued definite recommendations (positive, 19/86; negative, 14/86). The remaining 53/86 reviews were either inconclusive (24/86) or only of limited conclusiveness (29/86). The percentage of inconclusive reviews increased from 9% (1998-2002) to 19% (2003-2007; P < 0.05) to finally 24% (2008-2012) (P < 0.05). The three most common reasons for the need for further research were heterogeneity of studies (26/86), small number of patients (18/86), and insufficient data (16/86). Further high-quality research is necessary to increase the proportion of reviews with clear recommendations. Funding and research agencies are key to selecting the most appropriate research programs. © 2014 Japan Pediatric Society.

Research on mental retardation: an agenda for the future.

PubMed

Verdugo, M A

2000-06-01

This article summarizes the results of a study carried out on 12 scientific journals that deal with research on mental retardation. The purpose was to analyze the type of research currently being published. Data shows that, although most of research on mental retardation from 1991 to June, 1999 agrees with the multidimensional system proposed by the AAMR in 1992, research still tends to focus on a psychopathological model when considering people with mental retardation. We conclude by offering several suggestions on the need for a collaborative approach between researchers and professionals and the benefits of developing a supportive culture for research.

Spotlight on daytime napping during early childhood.

PubMed

Horváth, Klára; Plunkett, Kim

2018-01-01

Daytime napping undergoes a remarkable change in early childhood, and research regarding its relationship to cognitive development has recently accelerated. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of this relationship focusing on children aged <5 years. First, we evaluate different studies on the basis of the experimental design used and the specific cognitive processes they investigate. Second, we analyze how the napping status of children may modulate the relationship between learning and napping. Third, the possible role of sleep spindles, ie, specific electroencephalographic components during sleep, in cognitive development is explored. We conclude that daytime napping is crucial in early memory development.

Gratitude as a psychotherapeutic intervention.

PubMed

Emmons, Robert A; Stern, Robin

2013-08-01

Gratitude practice can be a catalyzing and relational healing force, often untapped in clinical practice. In this article, we provide an overview of current thinking about gratitude's defining and beneficial properties, followed by a brief review of the research on mental health outcomes that result from gratitude practice. Following an analysis of our case study of the use of gratitude as a psychotherapeutic intervention, we present various self-strategies and techniques for consciously choosing and cultivating gratitude. We conclude by describing ways in which gratitude might be capitalized upon for beneficial outcomes in therapeutic settings. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sorokina, Veronika, E-mail: ansonika@mail.ru; Nikiforov, Konstantin, E-mail: knikiforov@cc.spbu.ru

Studying emission characteristics of nanotubes is extremely important for development of electronics. Compared to other electron sources nanotube-based field emitters allow obtaining significant emission currents at relatively low values of the applied field. It is possible due to their unique structure. This article is devoted to theoretical investigation how external electric field effects several samples of open single-wall nanotubes from carbon and silicon carbide. Total energies, dipole moments and band gaps for five types of nanotubes were calculated from the first principles. The numerical experiment results indicate the adequacy of modeling. It was concluded that considered configurations of achiral carbonmore » nanotubes should be semiconductors.« less

Evaluating some computer exhancement algorithms that improve the visibility of cometary morphology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Larson, Stephen M.; Slaughter, Charles D.

1992-01-01

Digital enhancement of cometary images is a necessary tool in studying cometary morphology. Many image processing algorithms, some developed specifically for comets, have been used to enhance the subtle, low contrast coma and tail features. We compare some of the most commonly used algorithms on two different images to evaluate their strong and weak points, and conclude that there currently exists no single 'ideal' algorithm, although the radial gradient spatial filter gives the best overall result. This comparison should aid users in selecting the best algorithm to enhance particular features of interest.

Health and human rights of adolescent girls in Afghanistan.

PubMed

Heisler, M; Rasekh, Z; Iacopino, V

1999-01-01

Physicians for Human Rights (PHR) conducted a study in early 1998 to assess the health and human rights conditions of Afghan women and girls living under the Taliban regime in Kabul. This paper highlights the concerns and experiences of adolescent girls in Kabul, includes a brief overview of the political situation in Afghanistan and Taliban policies toward women and girls, and presents findings from interviews with adolescent girls and women with adolescent daughters. It concludes with a discussion of current international standards for the protection of women's and girls' rights and the crucial role of health professionals in helping defend these rights.

Development assessment of wash water reclamation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Putnam, D. F.

1976-01-01

An analytical study assessment of state-of-the-art wash water reclamation technology is presented. It covers all non-phase-change unit operations, unit processes and subsystems currently under development by NASA. Each approach to wash water reclamation is described in detail. Performance data are given together with the projected weights and sizes of key components and subsystems. It is concluded that a simple multifiltration subsystem composed of surface-type cartridge filters, carbon adsorption and ion exchange resins is the most attractive approach for spacecraft wash water reclamation in earth orbital missions of up to 10 years in duration.

Deterioration of ZnO/SiO2 diode packages in high humidity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Evans, John; Wagner, Scott

1987-01-01

A case study is reported in which the ZnO/SiO2 glass used to package a power rectifier combined with the design to produce a catastropic corrosion failure of the system. Metallic Zn inclusions, present in the glass, played a critical role in creating a conductive path for corrosion currents. Actual equipment failure was the result of an open circuit trace created by corrosion. It is concluded that the presence of Zn inclusions in the glass of this type of package may result in long-term reliability problems for equipment used in high humidity environments.

Photovoltaic and thermal energy conversion for solar powered satellites

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Von Tiesenhausen, G. F.

1976-01-01

A summary is provided concerning the most important aspects of present investigations related to a use of solar power satellites (SPS) as a future source of terrestrial energy. General SPS characteristics are briefly considered, early work is reviewed, and a description of current investigations is presented. System options presently under study include a photovoltaic array, a thermionic system, and a closed Brayton cycle. Attention is given to system reference options, basic building blocks, questions of system analysis and engineering, photovoltaic conversion, and the utility interface. It is concluded that an SPS may be cost effective compared to terrestrial systems by 1995.

Observations on sustainable and ubiquitous healthcare informatics from Florence Nightingale.

PubMed

Betts, Helen J; Wright, Graham

2009-01-01

As nurses around the world prepare to celebrate the centenary of the death of Florence Nightingale in 2010 this paper reviews her work on using information, especially statistics, to analyze and manage patient care and links that to current developments in informatics. It then examines assistive technologies and how they may impact on nursing practice in the future and links these developments to the writings of Florence Nightingale. The paper concludes by suggesting that in progressing towards sustainable and ubiquitous healthcare informatics we need to study history in order to learn from the lessons of Florence Nightingale and other healthcare pioneers.

Neuroscience-Inspired Artificial Intelligence.

PubMed

Hassabis, Demis; Kumaran, Dharshan; Summerfield, Christopher; Botvinick, Matthew

2017-07-19

The fields of neuroscience and artificial intelligence (AI) have a long and intertwined history. In more recent times, however, communication and collaboration between the two fields has become less commonplace. In this article, we argue that better understanding biological brains could play a vital role in building intelligent machines. We survey historical interactions between the AI and neuroscience fields and emphasize current advances in AI that have been inspired by the study of neural computation in humans and other animals. We conclude by highlighting shared themes that may be key for advancing future research in both fields. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Optical coherence tomography investigations of ceramic lumineers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fernandes, Luana O.; Graça, Natalia D. R. L.; Melo, Luciana S. A.; Silva, Claudio H. V.; Gomes, Anderson S. L.

2016-02-01

Lumineers are veneer laminates used as an alternative for aesthetic dental solutions of the highest quality, but the only current means of its performance assessment is visual inspection. The objective of this study was to use the Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) technique working in spectral domain to analyze in vivo in a single patient, 14 lumineers 180 days after cementation. It was possible to observe images in various kinds of changes in the cementing line and the laminate. It was concluded that the OCT is an effective and promising method to clinical evaluation of the cementing line in lumineers.

An assessment of the existence and influence of psychoanalytic jurisprudence in the United States.

PubMed

Caudill, David S

In light of the ongoing controversy over the value of psychoanalysis generally, this article summarizes the standards for scientific expertise in law and concludes that the future of psychoanalytic jurisprudence does not lie in the courtroom. After a brief survey of the history of psychoanalytic jurisprudence in legal contexts and institutions, I identify a revival of psychoanalytic jurisprudence, including (i) its association, primarily as a social theory, with Critical Legal Studies (in the US context), and (ii) the influence of Jacques Lacan in the legal academy. The unifying themes in this critical methodology include the construction of the subject through the language and rituals of the law, the failure of mainstream jurisprudence to be sufficiently critical of the legal status quo, and the repression or denial of injustices in legal history. Paralleling that revival, I note that a field of scholarship employing traditional Freudian conceptions is also currently engaging interdisciplinary legal studies, intervening in law reform efforts (particularly in criminal law), and criticizing the background assumptions and conventions in contemporary judicial opinions. I conclude that psychoanalysis is both threatening to mainstream legal culture and a rich source of insights for contemporary studies of legal processes and institutions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Air cushion landing gear applications study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Earl, T. D.

1979-01-01

A series of air cushion landing gear (ACLG) applications was studied and potential benefits analyzed in order to identify the most attractive of these. The selected applications are new integrated designs (not retrofits) and employ a modified design approach with improved characteristics and performance. To aid the study, a survey of potential users was made. Applications were evaluated in the light of comments received. A technology scenario is developed, with discussion of problem areas, current technology level and future needs. Feasible development timetables are suggested. It is concluded that near-term development of small-size ACLG trunks, exploration of flight effects and braking are key items. The most attractive applications are amphibious with very large cargo aircraft and small general aviation having the greatest potential.

Plant systems biology: network matters.

PubMed

Lucas, Mikaël; Laplaze, Laurent; Bennett, Malcolm J

2011-04-01

Systems biology is all about networks. A recent trend has been to associate systems biology exclusively with the study of gene regulatory or protein-interaction networks. However, systems biology approaches can be applied at many other scales, from the subatomic to the ecosystem scales. In this review, we describe studies at the sub-cellular, tissue, whole plant and crop scales and highlight how these studies can be related to systems biology. We discuss the properties of system approaches at each scale as well as their current limits, and pinpoint in each case advances unique to the considered scale but representing potential for the other scales. We conclude by examining plant models bridging different scales and considering the future prospects of plant systems biology. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Numerical studies of various Néel-VBS transitions in SU(N) anti-ferromagnets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kaul, Ribhu K.; Block, Matthew S.

2015-09-01

In this manuscript we review recent developments in the numerical simulations of bipartite SU(N) spin models by quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) methods. We provide an account of a large family of newly discovered sign-problem free spin models which can be simulated in their ground states on large lattices, containing O(105) spins, using the stochastic series expansion method with efficient loop algorithms. One of the most important applications so far of these Hamiltonians are to unbiased studies of quantum criticality between Neel and valence bond phases in two dimensions - a summary of this body of work is provided. The article concludes with an overview of the current status of and outlook for future studies of the “designer” Hamiltonians.

Critical review: medical students' motivation after failure.

PubMed

Holland, Chris

2016-08-01

About 10 % of students in each years' entrants to medical school will encounter academic failure at some stage in their programme. The usual approach to supporting these students is to offer them short term remedial study programmes that often enhance approaches to study that are orientated towards avoiding failure. In this critical review I will summarise the current theories about student motivation that are most relevant to this group of students and describe how they are enhanced or not by various contextual factors that medical students experience during their programme. I will conclude by suggesting ways in which support programmes for students who have encountered academic failure might be better designed and researched in the future.

Flutter parametric studies of cantilevered twin-engine-transport type wing with and without winglet. Volume 1: Low-speed investigations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhatia, K. G.; Nagaraja, K. S.

1984-01-01

Flutter characteristics of a cantilevered high aspect ratio wing with winglet were investigated. The configuration represented a current technology, twin-engine airplane. A low-speed and high-speed model were used to evaluate compressibility effects through transonic Mach numbers and a wide range of mass-density ratios. Four flutter mechanisms were obtained in test, as well as analysis from various combinations of configuration parameters. The coupling between wing tip vertical and chordwise motions was shown to have significant effect under some conditions. It is concluded that for the flutter model configurations studied, the winglet related flutter was amenable to the conventional flutter analysis techniques.

Study of the triton-burnup process in different JET scenarios using neutron monitor based on CVD diamond

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nemtsev, G., E-mail: g.nemtsev@iterrf.ru; Amosov, V.; Meshchaninov, S.

We present the results of analysis of triton burn-up process using the data from diamond detector. Neutron monitor based on CVD diamond was installed in JET torus hall close to the plasma center. We measure the part of 14 MeV neutrons in scenarios where plasma current varies in a range of 1-3 MA. In this experiment diamond neutron monitor was also able to detect strong gamma bursts produced by runaway electrons arising during the disruptions. We can conclude that CVD diamond detector will contribute to the study of fast particles confinement and help predict the disruption events in future tokamaks.

Blood lactate concentration after exposure to conducted energy weapons (including TASER® devices): is it clinically relevant?

PubMed

Jauchem, James R

2013-09-01

In previous studies, blood lactate concentration (BLac) consistently increased in anesthetized animals and in human subjects after exposures to TASER(®) conducted energy weapons (CEWs). Some have suggested the increased BLac would have detrimental consequences. In the current review, the following are evaluated: (a) the nature of muscle contractions due to CEWs, (b) general aspects of increased BLac, (c) previous studies of conventional neuromuscular electrical stimulation and CEW exposures, and (d) BLac in disease states. On the basis of these analyses, one can conclude that BLac, per se (independent of acidemia), would not be clinically relevant immediately after short-duration CEW applications, due to the short time course of any increase.

The Impact of Natural Disasters on Youth: A Focus on Emerging Research beyond Internalizing Disorders.

PubMed

Self-Brown, Shannon; Lai, Betty; Patterson, Alexandria; Glasheen, Theresa

2017-08-01

This paper reviews youth outcomes following exposure to natural disaster, with a focus on three relatively understudied outcomes: externalizing behavior problems, physical health, and posttraumatic growth. Recent, high-impact studies focusing on each outcome are summarized. Studies highlighted in this review utilize innovative and comprehensive approaches to improve our current understanding of youth broad-based physical and mental health outcomes beyond PTSD. The review concludes with recommendations to advance the field of youth disaster research by exploring how disasters may impact children across multiple domains, as well as using cutting edge ecobiological approaches and advanced modeling strategies to better understand how youth adjust and thrive following natural disaster.

Nitric oxide rescues thalidomide mediated teratogenicity

PubMed Central

Siamwala, Jamila H.; Veeriah, Vimal; Priya, M. Krishna; Rajendran, Saranya; Saran, Uttara; Sinha, Swaraj; Nagarajan, Shunmugam; T, Pradeep; Chatterjee, Suvro

2012-01-01

Thalidomide, a sedative drug given to pregnant women, unfortunately caused limb deformities in thousands of babies. Recently the drug was revived because of its therapeutic potential; however the search is still ongoing for an antidote against thalidomide induced limb deformities. In the current study we found that nitric oxide (NO) rescues thalidomide affected chick (Gallus gallus) and zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos. This study confirms that NO reduced the number of thalidomide mediated limb deformities by 94% and 80% in chick and zebrafish embryos respectively. NO prevents limb deformities by promoting angiogenesis, reducing oxidative stress and inactivating caspase-3 dependent apoptosis. We conclude that NO secures angiogenesis in the thalidomide treated embryos to protect them from deformities. PMID:22997553

Texas-Mexico multimodal transportation: developments in Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boske, Leigh B.

1994-03-01

This presentation highlights the results of a recently completed study that examines the Texas- Mexico multimodal transport system already in place, current plans for improvements or expansion, and opportunities and constraints faced by each transport mode -- motor carriage, rail, maritime, and air. Particular emphasis is given to findings regarding transportation developments in Mexico. The study concludes that in Mexico, all modes are working at establishing new services and strategic alliances, intermodal arrangements are on the rise, and private-sector participation in infrastructure improvements is growing daily at Mexican seaports and airports as well as within that nation's highway and rail systems. This presentation looks at developments that concern privatization, deregulation, infrastructure improvements, financing arrangements, and new services in Mexico.

Group Facial Width-to-Height Ratio Predicts Intergroup Negotiation Outcomes.

PubMed

Yang, Yu; Tang, Chen; Qu, Xiaofei; Wang, Chao; Denson, Thomas F

2018-01-01

Past studies have found that the facial width-to-height ratio (FWHR) is associated with a range of traits and behaviors that are possibly important to dyadic negotiations. However, it is unknown whether the FWHR would have an impact on intergroup negotiations, which happen frequently and often have higher stakes in the real world. To examine this question, in the current study, we randomly assigned 1,337 Chinese business executives into 288 groups and they completed a multi-issue negotiation exercise against each other. Results showed that groups with larger maximum individual FWHRs achieved objectively better negotiation outcomes. We conclude that groups containing individuals with relatively large FWHRs can claim more value in negotiations between groups.

Current research on public perceptions of nanotechnology

PubMed Central

Besley, J

2010-01-01

This review explores research on public perceptions of nanotechnology. It highlights a recurring emphasis on some researchers’ expectations that there will be a meaningful relationship between awareness of nanotechnology and positive views about nanotechnology. The review, however, also notes that this emphasis is tacitly and explicitly rejected by a range of multivariate studies that emphasize the key roles of non-awareness variables, such as, trust, general views about science, and overall worldview. The review concludes with a discussion of likely future research directions, including the expectation that social scientists will continue to focus on nanotechnology as a unique opportunity to study how individuals assess risk in the context of relatively low levels of knowledge. PMID:22460398

Vocational Education for China's Ethnic Minorities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Qian, Minhui

2013-01-01

This article analyzes the current status and problems of vocational education for China's ethnic minorities. It concludes that these problems have both universal areas in common with China's overall education situation and individual characteristics; they also have both extrinsic and intrinsic qualities. The universal areas include the extrinsic…

Kierkegaard, Despair and the Possibility of Education: Teaching Existentialism Existentially

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jaarsma, Ada S.; Kinaschuk, Kyle; Xing, Lin

2016-01-01

Written collaboratively by two undergraduate students and one professor, this article explores what it would mean to teach existentialism "existentially." We conducted a survey of how Existentialism is currently taught in universities across North America, concluding that, while existentialism courses tend to resemble other undergraduate…

Medical Waste Management Implications for Small Medical Facilities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Byrns, George; Burke, Thomas

1992-01-01

Discusses the implications of the Medical Waste Management Act of 1988 for small medical facilities, public health, and the environment. Reviews health and environmental risks associated with medical waste, current regulatory approaches, and classifications. Concludes that the health risk of medical wastes has been overestimated; makes…

Who Owns Your E-mail?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Panepinto, Joe

1995-01-01

Examines recent findings that could influence the use of e-mail on university campuses. National privacy legislation and the inviolability of student records are discussed. It is concluded that more effective safeguards are necessary, and that the current steps are inadequate for the protection of students' rights. (Author/LRW)

Public Libraries and Internet Public Access Models: Describing Possible Approaches.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tomasello, Tami K.; McClure, Charles R.

2002-01-01

Discusses ways of providing Internet access to the general public and analyzes eight models currently in use: public schools, public libraries, cybermobiles, public housing, community technology centers, community networks, kiosks, and cyber cafes. Concludes that public libraries may wish to develop collaborative strategies with other…

A Commentary on Hughes: The Tension between Pragmatics and Rigor.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Doll, Beth

2000-01-01

Argues against Hughes' recommendation for a comprehensive clinical case planning process since it cannot displace consumers' need for psychological practice guidelines which can be applied autonomously. Challenges the notion that theory has been omitted from current research on empirically supported treatments. Concludes the problem facing…

[Medical eugenics: a current issue].

PubMed

Testart, J

1998-01-01

The author begins by examining the historical background of eugenics and then ourlines with examples how it has evolved today (gamete donation, embryo selection, etc.). He concludes by discussing possible requirements to prevent the potential misuses of eugenic medicine which might result from recent advances in science and technology.

The Brain Research Bandwagon: Proceed with Caution.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Franklin, Elda; Franklin, A. David

1978-01-01

The authors review current brain hemisphere laterality research in relation to music education, concluding that evidence is still insufficient to determine the functions of the left brain and right brain in music perception. They also consider the effects of training on the cerebral processing of music stimuli. (SJL)

Controlling Johne's disease: Vaccination is the way forward

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

In this article, we summarize current research on the state of vaccination against Johne’s disease. We promote the use of live attenuated vaccine candidates over subunit approaches, but don’t wholly discount other strategies. We conclude by suggesting new research directions that may make the highes...

Remote Sensing: A Film Review.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carter, David J.

1986-01-01

Reviews the content of 19 films on remote sensing published between 1973 and 1980. Concludes that they are overly simplistic, notably outdated, and generally too optimistic about the potential of remote sensing from space for resource exploration and environmental problem-solving. Provides names and addresses of more current remote sensing…

Evolution of three-dimensional relativistic current sheets and development of self-generated turbulence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takamoto, M.

2018-05-01

In this paper, the temporal evolution of three-dimensional relativistic current sheets in Poynting-dominated plasma is studied for the first time. Over the past few decades, a lot of efforts have been conducted on studying the evolution of current sheets in two-dimensional space, and concluded that sufficiently long current sheets always evolve into the so-called plasmoid chain, which provides a fast reconnection rate independent of its resistivity. However, it is suspected that plasmoid chain can exist only in the case of two-dimensional approximation, and would show transition to turbulence in three-dimensional space. We performed three-dimensional numerical simulation of relativistic current sheet using resistive relativistic magnetohydrodynamic approximation. The results showed that the three-dimensional current sheets evolve not into plasmoid chain but turbulence. The resulting reconnection rate is 0.004, which is much smaller than that of plasmoid chain. The energy conversion from magnetic field to kinetic energy of turbulence is just 0.01 per cent, which is much smaller than typical non-relativistic cases. Using the energy principle, we also showed that the plasmoid is always unstable for a displacement in the opposite direction to its acceleration, probably interchange-type instability, and this always results in seeds of turbulence behind the plasmoids. Finally, the temperature distribution along the sheet is discussed, and it is found that the sheet is less active than plasmoid chain. Our finding can be applied for many high-energy astrophysical phenomena, and can provide a basic model of the general current sheet in Poynting-dominated plasma.

Geothermal Program Review XI: proceedings. Geothermal Energy - The Environmental Responsible Energy Technology for the Nineties

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Not Available

1993-10-01

These proceedings contain papers pertaining to current research and development of geothermal energy in the USA. The seven sections of the document are: Overview, The Geysers, Exploration and Reservoir Characterization, Drilling, Energy Conversion, Advanced Systems, and Potpourri. The Overview presents current DOE energy policy and industry perspectives. Reservoir studies, injection, and seismic monitoring are reported for the geysers geothermal field. Aspects of geology, geochemistry and models of geothermal exploration are described. The Drilling section contains information on lost circulation, memory logging tools, and slim-hole drilling. Topics considered in energy conversion are efforts at NREL, condensation on turbines and geothermal materials.more » Advanced Systems include hot dry rock studies and Fenton Hill flow testing. The Potpourri section concludes the proceedings with reports on low-temperature resources, market analysis, brines, waste treatment biotechnology, and Bonneville Power Administration activities. Selected papers have been indexed separately for inclusion in the Energy Science and Technology Database.« less

Solid health care waste management status at health care centers in the West Bank - Palestinian Territory

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Al-Khatib, Issam A.; Sato, Chikashi

Health care waste is considered a major public health hazard. The objective of this study was to assess health care waste management (HCWM) practices currently employed at health care centers (HCCs) in the West Bank - Palestinian Territory. Survey data on solid health care waste (SHCW) were analyzed for generated quantities, collection, separation, treatment, transportation, and final disposal. Estimated 4720.7 m{sup 3} (288.1 tons) of SHCW are generated monthly by the HCCs in the West Bank. This study concluded that: (i) current HCWM practices do not meet HCWM standards recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) or adapted by developedmore » countries, and (ii) immediate attention should be directed towards improvement of HCWM facilities and development of effective legislation. To improve the HCWM in the West Bank, a national policy should be implemented, comprising a comprehensive plan of action and providing environmentally sound and reliable technological measures.« less

Divergence in Defence against Herbivores between Males and Females of Dioecious Plant Species

PubMed Central

Avila-Sakar, Germán; Romanow, Cora Anne

2012-01-01

Defensive traits may evolve differently between sexes in dioecious plant species. Our current understanding of this process hinges on a partial view of the evolution of resistance traits that may result in male-biased herbivory in dioecious populations. Here, we present a critical summary of the current state of the knowledge of herbivory in dioecious species and propose alternative evolutionary scenarios that have been neglected. These scenarios consider the potential evolutionary and functional determinants of sexual dimorphism in patterns of resource allocation to reproduction, growth, and defence. We review the evidence upon which two previous reviews of sex-biased herbivory have concluded that male-biased herbivory is a rule for dioecious species, and we caution readers about a series of shortcomings of many of these studies. Lastly, we propose a minimal standard protocol that should be followed in any studies that intend to elucidate the (co)evolution of interactions between dioecious plants and their herbivores. PMID:23320247

[The ethic dimension of daily tasks in the formation process of nurses].

PubMed

Fernandes, Josicélia Dumêt; Rosa, Darci de Oliveira Santa; Vieira, Therezinha Teixeira; Sadigursky, Dora

2008-06-01

This theoretical article had as its object of study the ethic dimension of the formation process of nurses taking in consideration the National Curricular Directives for Nursing Courses. It was based on the presuppositions of ethics and their relationship with the implementation of changes in the formation process of nurses, using as reference elements of ethical behavior in the formation and attempting to bring the reflection to current times and thus contribute to define a direction to Nursing education. It was concluded that the ethical dimension in the formation of nurses involves values that permeate the relations between the subjects of this process and nature itself. The study points out the need to transform the practices of students and teachers and change the current curriculum framework, highlighting elements that indicate that the concern with ethics when developing the curriculum framework is not limited to how a discipline is taught, but pass through as practices that take place in the education process.

Effects of eddy current and dispersion of magnetic anisotropy on the high-frequency permeability of Fe-based nanocomposites

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, M.; Rozanov, K. N.; Zezyulina, P. A.; Wu, Yan-Hui

2015-06-01

Fe-Cu-Nb-Si-B microflakes have been prepared by ball milling. The structural, magnetostatic and microwave permeability of the flakes and flake-filled composites have been studied. Two ferromagnetic phases, nanograins and amorphous matrix, are found in the flakes. The Mössbauer study shows that the nanograins are α-Fe3(Si) with D03 superlattice structure. High resolution transmission electron microscopy shows that the nanograins are well dispersed in the matrix. The microwave permeability of composites containing the flakes has been measured. The comparison of the intrinsic permeability of the flakes obtained from the permeability measurements and from the anisotropy field distribution reveals a disagreement in the magnetic loss peak location. It is concluded that the low-frequency loss in the composites is not due to the effect of eddy currents. The low-frequency loss may be attributed to other sources, such as domain wall motion or peculiarities of the magnetic structure of the flakes in the composite.

Current concepts of Harm–Benefit Analysis of Animal Experiments – Report from the AALAS–FELASA Working Group on Harm–Benefit Analysis – Part 1

PubMed Central

Brønstad, Aurora; Newcomer, Christian E; Decelle, Thierry; Everitt, Jeffrey I; Guillen, Javier; Laber, Kathy

2016-01-01

International regulations and guidelines strongly suggest that the use of animal models in scientific research should be initiated only after the authority responsible for the review of animal studies has concluded a well-thought-out harm–benefit analysis (HBA) and deemed the project to be appropriate. Although the process for conducting HBAs may not be new, the relevant factors and algorithms used in conducting them during the review process are deemed to be poorly defined or lacking by committees in many institutions. This paper presents the current concept of HBAs based on a literature review. References on cost or risk benefit from clinical trials and other industries are also included. Several approaches to HBA have been discovered including algorithms, graphic presentations and generic processes. The aim of this study is to better aid and harmonize understanding of the concepts of ‘harm’, ‘benefit’ and ‘harm–benefit analysis’. PMID:27188275

[New information technologies and health consumerism].

PubMed

Vasconcellos-Silva, Paulo Roberto; Castiel, Luis David; Bagrichevsky, Marcos; Griep, Rosane Harter

2010-08-01

Concepts related to consumption have shifted to include social processes not previously covered by traditional categories. The current review analyzes the application of classical concepts of consumerism to practices recently identified in the health field, like the phenomenon of cyberchondria. The theoretical challenge relates to the difficulty in extrapolating from the economic perspectives of consumerism to self-care issues in the context of information and communication technologies (ICTs). Drawing on recent anthropological categories, the study seeks to understand the phenomenon of self-care commodification under the imperative of self-accountability for health. New consumer identities are described in light of the unprecedented issues concerning technical improvements currently altering the nature of self-care. The study concludes that health is consumed as vitality, broken down into commercial artifacts in the context of a new bioeconomy - no longer linked to the idea of emulation and possession, but to forms of self-perception and self-care in the face of multiple risks and new definitions of the human being.

Pakistan: Frontline state again. Master`s thesis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rivard, D.S.

1995-12-01

The objective of this study is to determine Pakistan`s place in contemporary U.S. national security strategy. Today, U.S.-Pakistan relations are strained due to the Pressler Amendment to the Foreign Assistance Act. The Pressler Amendment prohibits arms transfers from the United States to Pakistan in response to Pakistani efforts to develop a nuclear weapon capability. This thesis provides a historical background to the current impasse by examining Pakistani foreign policy since 1947. Next, the study examines the evolution of U.S. interests and security objectives in South and Southwest Asia. Current security objectives analyzed are the U.S. strategies to contain Iran andmore » Iraq and to prevent nuclear proliferation in the region. In order to attain security objectives in the region, the author concludes that the U.S. needs a close cooperative relationship with Pakistan. Since the Pressler Amendment stands as the greatest obstacle to improved U.S.-Pakistan relations, the amendment should be repealed.« less

A Physician's Perspective On Vertical Integration.

PubMed

Berenson, Robert A

2017-09-01

Vertical integration has been a central feature of health care delivery system change for more than two decades. Recent studies have demonstrated that vertically integrated health care systems raise prices and costs without observable improvements in quality, despite many theoretical reasons why cost control and improved quality might occur. Less well studied is how physicians view their newfound partnerships with hospitals. In this article I review literature findings and other observations on five aspects of vertical integration that affect physicians in their professional and personal lives: patients' access to physicians, physician compensation, autonomy versus system support, medical professionalism and culture, and lifestyle. I conclude that the movement toward physicians' alignment with and employment in vertically integrated systems seems inexorable but that policy should not promote such integration either intentionally or inadvertently. Instead, policy should address the flaws in current payment approaches that reward high prices and excessive service use-outcomes that vertical integration currently produces. Project HOPE—The People-to-People Health Foundation, Inc.

Honey and Cancer: Current Status and Future Directions

PubMed Central

Porcza, Laura M.; Simms, Claire; Chopra, Mridula

2016-01-01

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and poses a challenge to treatment. With overwhelming evidence of the role played by diet and lifestyle in cancer risk and prevention, there is a growing interest into the search for chemopreventative or chemotherapeutic agents derived from natural products. Honey is an important source of bioactive compounds derived from plants and recent years have seen an increased interest in its anticancer properties. This review examines the role of honey in targeting key hallmarks of carcinogenesis, including uncontrolled proliferation, apoptosis evasion, angiogenesis, growth factor signalling, invasion, and inflammation. The evidence for honey as an adjunct to conventional cancer therapy is also presented. The review also highlights gaps in the current understanding and concludes that, before translation of evidence from cell culture and animal studies into the clinical setting, further studies are warranted to examine the effects of honey at a molecular level, as well as on cells in the tumour environment. PMID:28933410

Composition and potential origin of marine debris stranded in the Western Indian Ocean on remote Alphonse Island, Seychelles.

PubMed

Duhec, Aurélie V; Jeanne, Richard F; Maximenko, Nikolai; Hafner, Jan

2015-07-15

The abundance, composition, and potential sources of marine debris were investigated on remote Alphonse Island, during the austral winter 2013. A total of 4743 items, weighing 142 kg, were removed from 1 km of windward beach, facing the prevailing southeasterly trade winds. Our study demonstrates the prevalence of plastic debris as a world-wide marine contaminant. Characteristics of the debris suggest it originated primarily from land-based sources. To determine their potential geographic sources we used the Surface Current from Diagnostic model of near-surface ocean currents, forced by satellite sea level and wind data. While preliminary evidence indicated the Southeast Asia to be the main source of the flotsam, the model highlighted Somalia as another potential primary source. Our study concludes that most of the collected debris entered the sea as a result of inadequate waste management and demonstrates how anthropogenic waste can negatively impact even the most remote environments. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

A review of research on the environmental impact of e-business and ICT.

PubMed

Yi, Lan; Thomas, Hywel R

2007-08-01

This paper attempts to provide a review of the current state of the art of how e-business/ICT affects the environment. The work reviewed is in various forms including journal papers and thesis which have been peer-reviewed, as well as other resources such as projects and project reports, conference and symposia, and websites. It is claimed that the research examined has captured the most important work to date, either for a general knowledge of this new area or for background study by experts carrying out future research. The review has found that the currently dominant approach is either a micro-level case study approach or a macro-level statistical approach. It is concluded that a more predictive and empirical model, which can be applied within a sector of society, should be more beneficial in the long term. This approach should help simulate potential impacts resulting from changes of indicators, so that positive effects can be promoted and negative ones alleviated proactively, rather than knowing and accepting outcomes passively.

Evolution of Safeguards over Time: Past, Present, and Projected Facilities, Material, and Budget

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kollar, Lenka; Mathews, Caroline E.

This study examines the past trends and evolution of safeguards over time and projects growth through 2030. The report documents the amount of nuclear material and facilities under safeguards from 1970 until present, along with the corresponding budget. Estimates for the future amount of facilities and material under safeguards are made according to non-nuclear-weapons states’ (NNWS) plans to build more nuclear capacity and sustain current nuclear infrastructure. Since nuclear energy is seen as a clean and economic option for base load electric power, many countries are seeking to either expand their current nuclear infrastructure, or introduce nuclear power. In ordermore » to feed new nuclear power plants and sustain existing ones, more nuclear facilities will need to be built, and thus more nuclear material will be introduced into the safeguards system. The projections in this study conclude that a zero real growth scenario for the IAEA safeguards budget will result in large resource gaps in the near future.« less

STUDY OF THE UPPER ATMOSPHERE BY MEANS OF THE COSMOS 3 AND COSMOS 5 SATELLITES. 2. SOFT PARTICLES

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Krasovskii, V.I.; Gal'perin, Yu.I.; Dzhordzhio, N.V.

1963-01-01

Geoactive particle research was conducted during the Cosmos 3 and Cosmos 5 orbital flights. The existence of currents of electrons and positive ions in the upper ionosphere having energies that are relatively low but greater than thermal is postulated. This was concluded from fluxes detected by the two types of particle counters used. a sensor formed of a fluorescent screen and photomultiplier, which was biased negatively and also shielded with Al foil so as to register only electrons above 40 ev and positive ions whose free path exceeded the foil thickness (e.g., protons of the order of 200 kev), andmore » an ion trap which registered electrons of 5 kev or more and positive ions. The trap counters showed repeated instances of anisotropic positive ion flow in a direction normal to the geomagnetic force lines; the fact that no simultaneous indications appeared in the indicator screen type counters suggests that these were soft'' positive ions; if protons, their energy would be less than 200 kev. This conclusion is supported by the fact that when the satellite had turned 180 deg the indicator counters in turn registered particles not sensed by the ion traps, which were evidently electrons below 5 kev. lt was concluded that there are areas which exhibit local current flow, in which positive ion energies are estimated to be several dozen ev and average density is 10/sup 8/ ion/cm/sup 2//sec/ster. These areas are in the 200- to 600-km region and tend to remain at the same earth latitudes for prolonged periods, sometimes as much as 9 hours. Additional observations were made of some highenergy particles, particularly those registered in the South Atlantic geomagnetic anomaly. It was concluded that these particles were electrons, estimated at between 50 kev and 1 Mev and at an omnidirectional density of 5 x 10/sup 7//cm/sup 2//sec. The possibility of spurious effects caused by the fields of on-board transmitting antennas, principally that of the telemetry transmitter, was rejected since no difference in electron count was noted whether the transmitters were on or off. The intensity and anisotropy of recorded electron currents agreed with earlier data from the 1958 Sputnik and from the U. S. Injun'' rocket of 1961. (AID)« less

Comparison of five different defibrillators using recommended energy protocols.

PubMed

Zelinka, M; Buić, D; Zelinka, I

2007-09-01

Biphasic defibrillators represent a great step ahead in defibrillation. The manufacturers claim that biphasic defibrillators are able to compensate for differences in transthoracic impedance. That should mean that all patients should be defibrillated with approximately the same amount of current, regardless of their transthoracic impedance. We assessed one monophasic and four biphasic defibrillators. The defibrillators were discharged into resistive loads of 50, 90 and 130 Omega, simulating transthoracic impedance. For each waveform we used energy protocols recommended by the manufacturers and guidelines 2005. Waveforms were observed with on a digitising oscilloscope on a current sensing resistor. We compared the electrical properties of different waveforms and two defibrillators with the same type of waveform. The influence of different impedance on shape, duration and amplitude of current flow were also observed for each waveform. Measurements showed a significant difference in current flow at different impedance loads. At low impedance the mean current is well above expectations for all the defibrillators studied and at high impedance load we observed a big reduction of current amplitude. We can conclude that the compensating mechanisms of biphasic defibrillators are, from electrical point of view, negligible. From the laws of physics it is practically impossible to keep same level of current at given time with same energy at higher impedance. That is why we should reconsider the use of different energy equivalents between patients with different transthoracic impedance and not between different defibrillation impulses.

Flapping current sheet with superposed waves seen in space and on the ground

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, G. Q.; Volwerk, M.; Nakamura, R.; Boakes, P.; Zhang, T. L.; Yoshikawa, A.; Baishev, D. G.

2014-12-01

A wavy current sheet event observed on 15 October 2004 between 1235 and 1300 UT has been studied by using Cluster and ground-based magnetometer data. Waves propagating from the tail center to the duskside flank with a period ~30 s and wavelength ~1 RE are superimposed on a flapping current sheet, accompanied with a bursty bulk flow. Three Pi2 pulsations, with onset at ~1236, ~1251, and ~1255 UT, respectively, are observed at the Tixie station located near the foot points of Cluster. The mechanism creating the Pi2 (period ~40 s) onset at ~1236 UT is unclear. The second Pi2 (period ~90 s, onset at ~1251 UT) is associated with a strong field-aligned current, which has a strong transverse component of the magnetic field, observed by Cluster with a time delay ~60 s. We suggest that it is caused by bouncing Alfvén waves between the northern and southern ionosphere which transport the field-aligned current. For the third Pi2 (period ~60 s) there is almost no damping at the first three periods. They occur in conjunction with periodic field-aligned currents one-on-one with 72 s delay. We suggest that it is generated by these periodic field-aligned currents. We conclude that the strong field-aligned currents generated in the plasma sheet during flapping with superimposed higher-frequency waves can drive Pi2 pulsations on the ground, and periodic field-aligned currents can even control the period of the Pi2s.

Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in Patients With Tinnitus: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review.

PubMed

Wang, Tang-Chuan; Tyler, Richard S; Chang, Ta-Yuan; Chen, Jui-Cheng; Lin, Chia-Der; Chung, Hsiung-Kwang; Tsou, Yung-An

2018-02-01

Subjective tinnitus is a phantom sensation experienced without any external source of sound that profoundly impacts the quality of life. Some investigations have claimed that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) reduces tinnitus, but studies on tDCS have demonstrated variable results. This meta-analysis aimed to examine the effect of tDCS on patients with tinnitus. We searched for articles published through January 5, 2016, in Medline, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Google Scholar using the following keywords: tinnitus, transcranial direct current stimulation, and tDCS. The study outcomes were change in magnitude estimates of loudness (loudness), tinnitus-related distress (distress), and Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI). Pooled results demonstrated that tDCS did not have a beneficial effect on loudness (pooled standardized difference in means = 0.674, 95% CI, -0.089 to 1.437, P = .083). Further, the pooled results demonstrated a greater reduction in distress for the tDCS group (pooled standardized difference in means = 0.634, 95% CI, 0.021-1.247, P = .043). We conclude that the pooled results demonstrated a greater reduction in distress for groups treated with tDCS as compared with those administered a sham treatment.

Female genital cutting in Hargeisa, Somaliland: is there a move towards less severe forms?

PubMed

Lunde, Ingvild Bergom; Sagbakken, Mette

2014-05-01

According to several sources, little progress is being made in eliminating the cutting of female genitalia. This paper, based on qualitative interviews and observations, explores perceptions of female genital cutting and elimination of the phenomenon in Hargeisa, Somaliland. Two main groups of participants were interviewed: (1) 22 representatives of organisations whose work directly relates to female genital cutting; and (2) 16 individuals representing different groups of society. It was found that there is an increasing use of medical staff and equipment when a girl undergoes the procedure of female genital cutting; the use of terminology is crucial in understanding current perceptions of female genital cutting; religion is both an important barrier and facilitator of elimination; and finally, traditional gender structures are currently being challenged in Hargeisa. The findings of this study suggest that it is important to consider current perceptions on practices of female genital cutting and on abandonment of female genital cutting, in order to gain useful knowledge on the issue of elimination. The study concludes that elimination of female genital cutting is a multifaceted process which is constantly negotiated in a diversity of social settings. Copyright © 2014 Reproductive Health Matters. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Physical therapy for idiopathic scoliosis].

PubMed

Steffan, K

2015-11-01

The objective is the description and summary of the current state of idiopathic scoliosis treatment with physical therapy based on new scientific knowledge and concluded from more than 15 years of experience as a leading physician in two well-known clinics specializing in the conservative treatment of scoliosis. Based on current scientific publications on physical therapy in scoliosis treatment and resulting from the considerable personal experience gained working with conservative treatment and consulting scoliosis patients (as inpatients and outpatients), the current methods of physical therapy have been compared and evaluated. Physical therapy according to Schroth and Vojta therapy are at present the most common and effective methods in the physical treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. These methods can be applied during inpatient or outpatient treatment or intensified in the practice of specialized therapists. As there are only a few scientific studies on this subject, the author's findings are based mainly on his own experiences of the conservative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. Athough these experiences are the results of over 15 years of working in the field of therapy, and the Schroth method in combination with corrective bracing presents highly promising results, it would nevertheless be desirable to conduct detailed scientific studies to verify the effectiveness of conservative treatment.

Innovative design of composite structures: Further studies in the use of a curvilinear fiber format to improve structural efficiency

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hyer, Michael W.; Charette, Robert F.

1988-01-01

Further studies to determine the potential for using a curvilinear fiber format in the design of composite laminates are reported. The curvilinear format is in contrast to the current practice of having the fibers aligned parallel to each other and in a straight line. The problem of a plate with a central circular hole is used as a candidate problem for this study. The study concludes that for inplane tensile loading the curvilinear format is superior. The limited results to date on compression buckling loads indicate that the curvilinear designs are poorer in resistant buckling. However, for the curvilinear design of interest, the reduction in buckling load is minimal and so overall there is a gain in considering the curvilinear design.

3D analysis of eddy current loss in the permanent magnet coupling.

PubMed

Zhu, Zina; Meng, Zhuo

2016-07-01

This paper first presents a 3D analytical model for analyzing the radial air-gap magnetic field between the inner and outer magnetic rotors of the permanent magnet couplings by using the Amperian current model. Based on the air-gap field analysis, the eddy current loss in the isolation cover is predicted according to the Maxwell's equations. A 3D finite element analysis model is constructed to analyze the magnetic field spatial distributions and vector eddy currents, and then the simulation results obtained are analyzed and compared with the analytical method. Finally, the current losses of two types of practical magnet couplings are measured in the experiment to compare with the theoretical results. It is concluded that the 3D analytical method of eddy current loss in the magnet coupling is viable and could be used for the eddy current loss prediction of magnet couplings.

Animal Sentience: Where are We and Where are We Heading?

PubMed Central

Proctor, Helen

2012-01-01

Simple Summary Animal sentience refers to the ability of animals to experience pleasurable states such as joy, and aversive states such as pain and fear (Broom, D.M. Dis. Aquat. Org. 2007, 75, 99–108). The science of animal sentience underpins the entire animal welfare movement. Demonstrating objectively what animals are capable of is key to achieving a positive change in attitudes and actions towards animals, and a real, sustainable difference for animal welfare. This paper briefly summarises understanding of animal sentience through the ages. There follows a review of the current state of animal sentience, and concluding thoughts on its future in regards to animal welfare. Abstract The science of animal sentience underpins the entire animal welfare movement. Demonstrating objectively what animals are capable of is key to achieving a positive change in attitudes and actions towards animals, and a real, sustainable difference for animal welfare. This paper briefly summarises understanding and acceptance of animal sentience through the ages. Although not an exhaustive history, it highlights some of the leading figures whose opinions and work have most affected perspectives of animal sentience. There follows a review of the current state of animal sentience, what is known, and what the main limitations have been for the development of the study of sentience. The paper concludes with some thoughts for the future of the science, and where it should be going in order to most benefit animal welfare. PMID:26487167

Graphonomics, Automaticity and Handwriting Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tucha, Oliver; Tucha, Lara; Lange, Klaus W.

2008-01-01

A recent review of handwriting research in "Literacy" concluded that current curricula of handwriting education focus too much on writing style and neatness and neglect the aspect of handwriting automaticity. This conclusion is supported by evidence in the field of graphonomic research, where a range of experiments have been used to investigate…

Distance Education for Aboriginal Communities in Canada: Past Experience and Future Potential.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gruber, Steve; Coldevin, Gary

1995-01-01

Reviews problems with the current educational situation in Canadian aboriginal communities. Notes the potential of distance education to reduce problems associated with cultural assimilation and to enhance multimedia resources. Discusses strengths and weaknesses of two distance education programs for aboriginals and concludes with guidelines for…

Naval stores markets on hold during recession

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Layman, P.

1982-03-22

A review of the current state of the market and level of inventory stocks of turpentine and tall oil and its derivatives. It is concluded that pricing is soft as major markets suffer through recession, but that recovery may be quick in some areas where inventory stocks are low.

WITHOUT A CHANGE OF DIRECTION, WE'LL GET WHERE WE'RE GOING: WRITING A FUTURE FOR WILD SALMON

EPA Science Inventory

Many experts have concluded that wild salmon recovery efforts in western North America (especially California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and southern British Columbia), as earnest, expensive, and socially disruptive as they currently are, do not appear likely to sustain biologic...

Master Class: Children's Literature and Mathematics--an Unhealthy Alliance?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Young, Terrell

1999-01-01

Responds to current interest in the integration of children's literature and mathematics. Suggests that although using trade books instead of textbooks in teaching math holds promise, it is potentially negative. Concludes that aligning children's literature and math has the potential to help children better understand and appreciate both…

CSPAP Professional Preparation: Takeaways from Pioneering Physical Education Teacher Education Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carson, Russell L.; Castelli, Darla M.; Kulinna, Pamela Hodges

2017-01-01

As comprehensive school physical activity program (CSPAP) professional development becomes increasingly available to current K-12 physical education teachers, this special feature shifts attention to the preparation of future PE teachers and teacher educators for CSPAP. The purpose of this concluding article is to summarize the undergraduate- and…

The control of reproduction: principle and practice in Nigeria.

PubMed

Pittin, R

1986-05-01

The author examines the law and practice concerning contraception and abortion in Nigeria in the context of the impact of these factors on women's rights and status. She concludes that both the law and current practices are designed to continue the subordination of married women to their husbands.

Discourse on Disability and Rehabilitation Issues: Opportunities for Psychology.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pledger, Constance

2003-01-01

Discusses the old and new paradigms of disability. Examines the relevance to psychology, summarizes the fundamental theoretical frameworks that have influenced the current state of the science in disability and rehabilitation, and offers an overview of definitions, terminology, and models of disability. Concludes with an introduction to four other…

Are Current Theories of Panic Falsifiable?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Roth, Walton T.; Wilhelm, Frank H.; Pettit, Dean

2005-01-01

The authors examine 6 theories of panic attacks as to whether empirical approaches are capable of falsifying them and their heuristic value. The authors conclude that the catastrophic cognitions theory is least falsifiable because of the elusive nature of thoughts but that it has greatly stimulated research and therapy. The vicious circle theory…

School Management in Nineteenth Century Elementary Schools: A Day in the Life of a Headteacher.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Thody, Angela M.

1994-01-01

Utilizing primary sources, the article reconstructs the typical day of a 19th-century English headteacher. The headteacher's myriad duties included classroom management, school administration, and building maintenance. Concludes with a comparison between 19th-century education management and current practices. (MJP)

Developmental Relationships in the Dynamic Library Environment: Re-Conceptualizing Mentoring for the Future

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Murphy, Sarah Anne

2008-01-01

This article examines the current conceptualization of mentoring in academic libraries and argues that traditional hierarchical mentoring relationships are no longer sufficient for developing tomorrow's leaders. Drawing insights from the management and human resources development literature, it concludes that an expanded understanding of…

Lead Abatement and Prevention of Developmental Disabilities.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chiang, Vico

1999-01-01

Reviews the literature on "safe" levels of lead in children and their association with developmental disabilities. It concludes that lead pollution in Australia, especially the Lake Macquarie area of New South Wales, continues to be a problem, that the current standard "safe" level should be reexamined, and that a…

Postscript: Identity and Constraints in Models of Object Formation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kellman, Philip J.; Garrigan, Patrick; Shipley, Thomas F.; Keane, Brian P.

2007-01-01

Presents some additional comments from the current authors regarding their original article Interpolation processes in object perception: Reply to Anderson (2007). As this exchange concludes, we believe that the account of interpolation and object formation proposed by Kellman and Shipley (1991), further developed in recent years (Kellman, 2003;…

What is new in preterm birth prevention? Important recent articles.

PubMed

Andrews, William W

2013-08-01

This month, we focus on current research in preterm birth prevention. Dr. Andrews discusses recent publications, and each is concluded with a "bottom line" that is the take-home message. The complete reference for each can be found in on this page, along with direct links to the abstracts.

What is new in stillbirth?: important recent articles.

PubMed

Andrews, William W

2015-01-01

This month we focus on current research in stillbirth. Dr. Andrews discusses five recent publications, and each is concluded with a "bottom line" that is the take-home message. The complete reference for each can be found in on this page, along with direct links to the abstracts.

Linguistic Means of Expressing Distance between Interlocutors in Ukrainian.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bulatetska, Ludmila

Characteristics and patterns of Ukrainian language usage expressing social distance are analyzed, with examples given from current usage and, to a lesser extent, perspectives drawn from historical usage. It is concluded that Ukrainian has a rich morphological paradigm to express distance, primarily through diminutive morphology, which can…

The immature electrophysiological phenotype of iPSC-CMs still hampers in vitro drug screening: Special focus on IK1.

PubMed

Goversen, Birgit; van der Heyden, Marcel A G; van Veen, Toon A B; de Boer, Teun P

2018-03-01

Preclinical drug screens are not based on human physiology, possibly complicating predictions on cardiotoxicity. Drug screening can be humanised with in vitro assays using human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs). However, in contrast to adult ventricular cardiomyocytes, iPSC-CMs beat spontaneously due to presence of the pacemaking current I f and reduced densities of the hyperpolarising current I K1 . In adult cardiomyocytes, I K1 finalises repolarisation by stabilising the resting membrane potential while also maintaining excitability. The reduced I K1 density contributes to proarrhythmic traits in iPSC-CMs, which leads to an electrophysiological phenotype that might bias drug responses. The proarrhythmic traits can be suppressed by increasing I K1 in a balanced manner. We systematically evaluated all studies that report strategies to mature iPSC-CMs and found that only few studies report I K1 current densities. Furthermore, these studies did not succeed in establishing sufficient I K1 levels as they either added too little or too much I K1 . We conclude that reduced densities of I K1 remain a major flaw in iPSC-CMs, which hampers their use for in vitro drug screening. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The Sources of Innovation and Creativity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Adams, Karlyn

2005-01-01

This document represents a comprehensive summary of current research and theory on the sources of innovation and creativity, both in individuals and organizations. Based on the recurring concepts in the existing literature, the document concludes with some recommendations for how education systems can best foster these attributes in students. Both…

Ohio School Finance: Continuing Challenges to Adequacy and Equity of Funding.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Payne, Gary L.; Cambron-McCabe, Nelda H.

1999-01-01

Recent research and a 1996 PBS documentary concluded that Ohio's educational finance system remains inequitable. Guarantees to districts facilitated equity, but assessed property valuation per pupil significantly predicted current operating expenditures during the 1980s. Effects of state loans, property tax limitations, and the lottery are…

Exploring the Relationship between Validity and Comparability in Assessment

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Crisp, Victoria

2017-01-01

This article discusses how comparability relates to current mainstream conceptions of validity, in the context of educational assessment. Relevant literature was used to consider the relationship between these concepts. The article concludes that, depending on the exact claims being made about the appropriate interpretations and uses of the…

Undergraduate Single Mothers' Experiences in Postsecondary Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Beeler, Sydney

2016-01-01

Using Astin's (1993) College Impact Model, this chapter explores the current literature as it relates to single mothers in undergraduate postsecondary education. The chapter looks at the ways that undergraduates who are single mothers are counter to the "ideal-student" norms. Policy and best-practice recommendations conclude the chapter.

Writing about Clients: Developing Composite Case Material and Its Rationale

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Duffy, Maureen

2010-01-01

Ethical guidelines of the 4 major professional associations representing counselors and psychotherapists are reviewed. To help clarify thinking about writing up clinical cases, 3 kinds of cases are described. The author concludes that the current guidelines for clinician authors in writing about clients for publication or presentation are…

Relapse revisited: a critique of current concepts and clinical practice in the management of alcohol problems.

PubMed

Saunders, B; Houghton, M

1996-01-01

How a problem is understood dictates how it is responded to. In this paper the problem of relapse and alcohol dependence is reconsidered. The existing major relapse paradigm is evaluated against the last two decades of research. It is concluded that the available research strongly questions the notion that relapse is an addiction-specific event. Instead, relapse is probably better understood as a complex, generic, human behaviour, undertaken at times by all of us. Given this, it is possible that mainstream psychological theories, such as decision making and attribution theory, are important in coming to any understanding of the phenomenon of relapse. It is also contended that the investigation of relapse is potentially an error of focus. Such study invites the investigation of those who do not succeed in changing behaviour, as against the study of those who do. For those concerned with the treatment of alcohol dependence, studying the successes may be a more informative process than studying the putative failures. Given the burgeoning of research over the past two decades the impact on treatment practice is reviewed. It is concluded that relapse prevention and management is very much on the alcohol-intervention agenda. However, the research evidence to date is consistent with the general psychotherapy literature in that doing something appears better than no intervention, but that an optimum, effective, intervention has yet to be devised.

Non-invasive electric current stimulation for restoration of vision after unilateral occipital stroke.

PubMed

Gall, Carolin; Silvennoinen, Katri; Granata, Giuseppe; de Rossi, Francesca; Vecchio, Fabrizio; Brösel, Doreen; Bola, Michał; Sailer, Michael; Waleszczyk, Wioletta J; Rossini, Paolo M; Tatlisumak, Turgut; Sabel, Bernhard A

2015-07-01

Occipital stroke often leads to visual field loss, for which no effective treatment exists. Little is known about the potential of non-invasive electric current stimulation to ameliorate visual functions in patients suffering from unilateral occipital stroke. One reason is the traditional thinking that visual field loss after brain lesions is permanent. Since evidence is available documenting vision restoration by means of vision training or non-invasive electric current stimulation future studies should also consider investigating recovery processes after visual cortical strokes. Here, protocols of repetitive transorbital alternating current stimulation (rtACS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) are presented and the European consortium for restoration of vision (REVIS) is introduced. Within the consortium different stimulation approaches will be applied to patients with unilateral occipital strokes resulting in homonymous hemianopic visual field defects. The aim of the study is to evaluate effects of current stimulation of the brain on vision parameters, vision-related quality of life, and physiological parameters that allow concluding about the mechanisms of vision restoration. These include EEG-spectra and coherence measures, and visual evoked potentials. The design of stimulation protocols involves an appropriate sham-stimulation condition and sufficient follow-up periods to test whether the effects are stable. This is the first application of non-invasive current stimulation for vision rehabilitation in stroke-related visual field deficits. Positive results of the trials could have far-reaching implications for clinical practice. The ability of non-invasive electrical current brain stimulation to modulate the activity of neuronal networks may have implications for stroke rehabilitation also in the visual domain. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Cockpit data management

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Groce, J. L.; Boucek, G. P.

1988-01-01

This study is a continuation of an FAA effort to alleviate the growing problems of assimilating and managing the flow of data and flight related information in the air transport flight deck. The nature and extent of known pilot interface problems arising from new NAS data management programs were determined by a comparative timeline analysis of crew tasking requirements. A baseline of crew tasking requirements was established for conventional and advanced flight decks operating in the current NAS environment and then compared to the requirements for operation in a future NAS environment emphasizing Mode-S data link and TCAS. Results showed that a CDU-based pilot interface for Mode-S data link substantially increased crew visual activity as compared to the baseline. It was concluded that alternative means of crew interface should be available during high visual workload phases of flight. Results for TCAS implementation showed substantial visual and motor tasking increases, and that there was little available time between crew tasks during a TCAS encounter. It was concluded that additional research should be undertaken to address issues of ATC coordination and the relative benefit of high workload TCAS features.

Design of magnetic gene complexes as effective and serum resistant gene delivery systems for mesenchymal stem cells.

PubMed

Zhang, Tian-Yuan; Wu, Jia-He; Xu, Qian-Hao; Wang, Xia-Rong; Lu, Jingxiong; Hu, Ying; Jo, Jun-Ichiro; Yamamoto, Masaya; Ling, Daishun; Tabata, Yasuhiko; Gao, Jian-Qing

2017-03-30

Gene engineered mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been proposed as promising tools for their various applications in biomedicine. Nevertheless, the lack of an effective and safe way to genetically modify these stem cells is still a major obstacle in the current studies. Herein, we designed novel magnetic complexes by assembling cationized pullulan derivatives with magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles for delivering target genes to MSCs. Results showed that this complexes achieved effective gene expression with the assistance of external magnetic field, and resisted the adverse effect induced by serum proteins on the gene delivery. Moreover, neither significant cytotoxicity nor the interference on the osteogenic differentiation to MSCs were observed after magnetofection. Further studies revealed that this effective and serum resistant gene transfection was partly due to the accelerated and enhanced intracellular uptake process driven by external magnetic field. To conclude, the current study presented a novel option for genetic modification of MSCs in an effective, relatively safe and serum compatible way. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Auger electron spectroscopy at high spatial resolution and nA primary beam currents

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Todd, G.; Poppa, H.; Moorhead, D.; Bales, M.

1975-01-01

An experimental Auger microprobe system is described which incorporates a field-emission electron gun and total beam currents in the nanoampere range. The distinguishing characteristics of this system include a large multistation UHV specimen chamber, pulse counting and fully digital Auger signal-processing techniques, and digital referencing methods to eliminate the effects of beam instabilities. Some preliminary results obtained with this system are described, and it is concluded that field-emission electron sources can be used for high-resolution Auger electron spectroscopy with primary-beam spots of less than 100 nm and beam currents of the order of 1 nA.

Bipolar resistive switching in Cu/AlN/Pt nonvolatile memory device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, C.; Yang, Y. C.; Zeng, F.; Pan, F.

2010-08-01

Highly stable and reproducible bipolar resistive switching effects are reported on Cu/AlN/Pt devices. Memory characteristics including large memory window of 103, long retention time of >106 s and good endurance of >103 were demonstrated. It is concluded that the reset current decreases as compliance current decreases, which provides an approach to suppress power consumption. The dominant conduction mechanisms of low resistance state and high resistance state were verified by Ohmic behavior and trap-controlled space charge limited current, respectively. The memory effect is explained by the model concerning redox reaction mediated formation and rupture of the conducting filament in AlN films.

[Inpatient treatment in the addicted patient].

PubMed

Capece, José

2010-01-01

We review the patient hospitalization criteria for Substance Abuse Disorder, taking into account current controversies and the weight of the evidence in the investigation in relation to clinical efficacy and effectiveness. We raise the parameters that mark the 24.455 law on the basic treatment plan from the current data in Argentina, which are inpatient detoxification and residential rehabilitation. We identify the need for detoxification and comprehensive for dual patients rehabilitation centers as peremptory. Criteria are defined according to international validation. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of hospitalization. Finally, we conclude in the need for a system where devices appropriate epidemiological needs, and that the clinical handle current information.

Actions of arginine polyamine on voltage and ligand-activated whole cell currents recorded from cultured neurones.

PubMed Central

Scott, R. H.; Sweeney, M. I.; Kobrinsky, E. M.; Pearson, H. A.; Timms, G. H.; Pullar, I. A.; Wedley, S.; Dolphin, A. C.

1992-01-01

1. Toxins from invertebrates have proved useful tools for investigation of the properties of ion channels. In this study we describe the actions of arginine polyamine which is believed to be a close analogue of FTX, a polyamine isolated from the American funnel web spider, Agelenopsis aperta. 2. Voltage-activated Ca2+ currents and Ca(2+)-dependent Cl- currents recorded from rat cultured dorsal root ganglion neurones were reversibly inhibited by arginine polyamine (AP; 0.001 to 100 microM). Low voltage-activated T-type Ca2+ currents were significantly more sensitive to AP than high voltage-activated Ca2+ currents. The IC50 values for the actions of AP on low and high voltage-activated Ca2+ currents were 10 nM and 3 microM respectively. AP was equally effective in inhibiting high voltage-activated currents carried by Ba2+, Sr2+ or Ca2+. However, AP-induced inhibition of Ca2+ currents was attenuated by increasing the extracellular Ca2+ concentration from 2 mM to 10 mM. 3. The actions of AP on a Ca(2+)-independent K+ current were more complex, 1 microM AP enhanced this current but 10 microM AP had a dual action, initially enhancing but then inhibiting the K+ current. 4. gamma-Aminobutyric acid-activated Cl- currents were also reversibly inhibited by 1 to 10 microM AP. In contrast N-methyl-D-aspartate currents recorded from rat cultured cerebellar neurones were greatly enhanced by 10 microM AP. 5. We conclude that at a concentration of 10 nM, AP is a selective inhibitor of low threshold T-type voltage-activated Ca2+ currents.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS) PMID:1380382

Tagging polyketides/non-ribosomal peptides with a clickable functionality and applications

PubMed Central

Zhu, Xuejun; Zhang, Wenjun

2015-01-01

Bioorthogonal chemistry has recently emerged to be one of the most powerful tools in drug discovery and chemical biology. The exploration of it has successfully advanced the field of natural product research. In this Perspective, we survey current strategies for the installation of chemical handles into the molecular scaffolds of several major classes of natural products, including polyketides (PKs), non-ribosomal peptides (NRPs), and their hybrids. By tagging these natural products with chemical handles and coupling them with subsequent bioorthogonal reactions, researchers have visualized and studied the mode of action of natural products, as well as synthesized derivatives with better pharmaceutical properties. We conclude this Perspective by considering two questions: is there a general way to synthesize tagged PKs/NRPs? Does natural product labeling have a broader impact in the field of natural product research beyond current known applications? PMID:25815285

Child rights and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in Ireland.

PubMed

Damodaran, J; Sherlock, C

2013-12-01

This paper explores children's rights in the child and adolescent mental health arena in Ireland. It begins by outlining the legal and policy contexts of both children's services and mental health policy and practice. It specifically focuses on the notion of participation as a key factor in addressing rights-based approaches in the provision of services. The article explores current practice in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, highlights some of the disparities in services, which result in questions about human rights. Mainly reflective in its approach, it does, however, provide data from a small scale qualitative study carried out in relation to young people diagnosed with ADHD and their perceptions of psychopharmacological approach. The issue of consent is explored as an example of how current practice approaches fall short of a rights-based framework. It concludes with recommendations for changes incorporating a more participatory and collaborative approach.

Female sex trafficking: conceptual issues, current debates, and future directions.

PubMed

Meshkovska, Biljana; Siegel, Melissa; Stutterheim, Sarah E; Bos, Arjan E R

2015-01-01

Female sex trafficking is a pressing concern. In this article, we provide a comprehensive overview of relevant issues regarding the concept of female sex trafficking and research in the field of human trafficking, drawing on a variety of disciplines, including economics, gender and sexuality studies, psychology, sociology, law, and social work. We discuss the debates surrounding the definition of human trafficking, compare and contrast it with human smuggling, and outline connections between female sex trafficking and the issue of sex work and prostitution. We further discuss the history and current estimations of female sex trafficking. We then outline the main actors in female sex trafficking, including trafficked persons, traffickers, clients, and service providers, and we overview the trafficking process from recruitment to identification, recovery, and (re)integration. Finally, we conclude with recommendations for future research that tie together the concepts of vulnerability, exploitation, and long-term recovery and (re)integration.

Effect of electron irradiation dose on the performance of avalanche photodiode electron detectors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kawauchi, Taizo; Wilde, Markus; Fukutani, Katsuyuki

2009-01-01

Avalanche photodiodes (APDs) are efficient detectors for electrons with energies below 100 keV. The damaging effects of 8 keV electron beam irradiation on the dark current and the output signal of the APD detector were investigated in this study. The APD dark current increases after electron doses exceeding 1.4x10{sup 13} cm{sup -2}. Preirradiation by high doses of 8 keV electrons further causes a deformation of the pulse height distribution of the APD output in the subsequent detection of low-flux electrons. This effect is particularly prominent when the energy of the detected electrons is lower than that of the damaging electrons.more » By comparing the experimental data with results of a simulation based on an electron trapping model, we conclude that the degradation of the APD performance is attributable to an enhancement of secondary-electron trapping at irradiation induced defects.« less

Multi-Lab EV Smart Grid Integration Requirements Study. Providing Guidance on Technology Development and Demonstration

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Markel, T.; Meintz, A.; Hardy, K.

2015-05-28

The report begins with a discussion of the current state of the energy and transportation systems, followed by a summary of some VGI scenarios and opportunities. The current efforts to create foundational interface standards are detailed, and the requirements for enabling PEVs as a grid resource are presented. Existing technology demonstrations that include vehicle to grid functions are summarized. The report also includes a data-based discussion on the magnitude and variability of PEVs as a grid resource, followed by an overview of existing simulation tools that vi This report is available at no cost from the National Renewable Energy Laboratorymore » (NREL) at www.nrel.gov/publications. can be used to explore the expansion of VGI to larger grid functions that might offer system and customer value. The document concludes with a summary of the requirements and potential action items that would support greater adoption of VGI.« less

Vehicle concepts and technology requirements for buoyant heavy-lift systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ardema, M. D.

1981-01-01

Several buoyant-vehicle (airship) concepts proposed for short hauls of heavy payloads are described. Numerous studies identified operating cost and payload capacity advantages relative to existing or proposed heavy-lift helicopters for such vehicles. Applications involving payloads of from 15 tons up to 800 tons were identified. The buoyant quad-rotor concept is discussed in detail, including the history of its development, current estimates of performance and economics, currently perceived technology requirements, and recent research and technology development. It is concluded that the buoyant quad-rotor, and possibly other buoyant vehicle concepts, has the potential of satisfying the market for very heavy vertical lift but that additional research and technology development are necessary. Because of uncertainties in analytical prediction methods and small-scale experimental measurements, there is a strong need for large or full-scale experiments in ground test facilities and, ultimately, with a flight research vehicle.

Detecting Analogies Unconsciously

PubMed Central

Reber, Thomas P.; Luechinger, Roger; Boesiger, Peter; Henke, Katharina

2014-01-01

Analogies may arise from the conscious detection of similarities between a present and a past situation. In this functional magnetic resonance imaging study, we tested whether young volunteers would detect analogies unconsciously between a current supraliminal (visible) and a past subliminal (invisible) situation. The subliminal encoding of the past situation precludes awareness of analogy detection in the current situation. First, participants encoded subliminal pairs of unrelated words in either one or nine encoding trials. Later, they judged the semantic fit of supraliminally presented new words that either retained a previously encoded semantic relation (“analog”) or not (“broken analog”). Words in analogs versus broken analogs were judged closer semantically, which indicates unconscious analogy detection. Hippocampal activity associated with subliminal encoding correlated with the behavioral measure of unconscious analogy detection. Analogs versus broken analogs were processed with reduced prefrontal but enhanced medial temporal activity. We conclude that analogous episodes can be detected even unconsciously drawing on the episodic memory network. PMID:24478656

Low acid producing solid propellants

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bennett, Robert R.

1995-01-01

The potential environmental effects of the exhaust products of conventional rocket propellants have been assessed by various groups. Areas of concern have included stratospheric ozone, acid rain, toxicity, air quality and global warming. Some of the studies which have been performed on this subject have concluded that while the impacts of rocket use are extremely small, there are propellant development options which have the potential to reduce those impacts even further. This paper discusses the various solid propellant options which have been proposed as being more environmentally benign than current systems by reducing HCI emissions. These options include acid neutralized, acid scavenged, and nonchlorine propellants. An assessment of the acid reducing potential and the viability of each of these options is made, based on current information. Such an assessment is needed in order to judge whether the potential improvements justify the expenditures of developing the new propellant systems.

Problematizing Disciplinarity, Transdisciplinary Problematics.

PubMed

Osborne, Peter

2015-09-01

This article situates current debates about transdisciplinarity within the deeper history of academic disciplinarity, in its difference from the notions of inter- and multi-disciplinarity. It offers a brief typology and history of established conceptions of transdisciplinarity within science and technology studies. It then goes on to raise the question of the conceptual structure of transdisciplinary generality in the humanities, with respect to the incorporation of the 19th- and 20th-century German and French philosophical traditions into the anglophone humanities, under the name of 'theory'. It identifies two distinct - dialectical and anti-dialectical, or dialectical and transversal - transdisciplinary trajectories. It locates the various contributions to the special issue of which it is the introduction within this conceptual field, drawing attention to the distinct contribution of the French debates about structuralism and its aftermath - those by Serres, Foucault, Derrida, Guattari and Latour, in particular. It concludes with an appendix on Foucault's place within current debates about disciplinarity and academic disciplines.

Innovations in the Use of Interactive Technology to Support Weight Management

PubMed Central

Spruijt-Metz, D.; Wen, C.K.F.; O’Reilly, G.; Li, M.; Lee, S; Emken, B.A.; Mitra, U.; Annavaram, M.; Ragusa, G.; Narayanan, S.

2015-01-01

New and emerging mobile technologies are providing unprecedented possibilities for understanding and intervening on obesity-related behaviors in real time. However, the mobile health (mHealth) field has yet to catch up with the fast-paced development of technology. Current mHealth efforts in weight management still tend to focus mainly on short message systems (SMS) interventions, rather than taking advantage of real-time sensing to develop Just-In-Time, Adaptive Interventions (JITAIs). This paper will give an overview of the current technology landscape for sensing and intervening on three behaviors that are central to weight management; diet, physical activity, and sleep. Then five studies that really dig into the possibilities that these new technologies afford will be showcased. We conclude with a discussion of hurdles that mHealth obesity research has yet to overcome, and a future-facing discussion. PMID:26364308

Manganese biomining: A review.

PubMed

Das, A P; Sukla, L B; Pradhan, N; Nayak, S

2011-08-01

Biomining comprises of processing and extraction of metal from their ores and concentrates using microbial techniques. Currently this is used by the mining industry to extract copper, uranium and gold from low grade ores but not for low grade manganese ore in industrial scale. The study of microbial genomes, metabolites and regulatory pathways provide novel insights to the metabolism of bioleaching microorganisms and their synergistic action during bioleaching operations. This will promote understanding of the universal regulatory responses that the biomining microbial community uses to adapt to their changing environment leading to high metal recovery. Possibility exists of findings ways to imitate the entire process during industrial manganese biomining endeavor. This paper reviews the current status of manganese biomining research operations around the world, identifies factors that drive the selection of biomining as a processing technology, describes challenges in exploiting these innovations, and concludes with a discussion of Mn biomining's future. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microalgal cultivation with biogas slurry for biofuel production.

PubMed

Zhu, Liandong; Yan, Cheng; Li, Zhaohua

2016-11-01

Microalgal growth requires a substantial amount of chemical fertilizers. An alternative to the utilization of fertilizer is to apply biogas slurry produced through anaerobic digestion to cultivate microalgae for the production of biofuels. Plenty of studies have suggested that anaerobic digestate containing high nutrient contents is a potentially feasible nutrient source to culture microalgae. However, current literature indicates a lack of review available regarding microalgal cultivation with biogas slurry for the production of biofuels. To help fill this gap, this review highlights the integration of digestate nutrient management with microalgal production. It first unveils the current status of microalgal production, providing basic background to the topic. Subsequently, microalgal cultivation technologies using biogas slurry are discussed in detail. A scale-up scheme for simultaneous biogas upgrade and digestate application through microalgal cultivation is then proposed. Afterwards, several uncertainties that might affect this practice are explored. Finally, concluding remarks are put forward. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Temperature dependence of direct current conductivity in Ag-ED20 nanocomposite films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Novikov, G. F.; Rabenok, E. V.; Bogdanova, L. M.; Irzhak, V. I.

2017-10-01

The effect of silver nanoparticles (NPs) in the concentration range of ≤0.8 wt % have on direct current conductivity σdc of Ag-ED20 nanocomposite is studied by method of broadband dielectric spectroscopy (10-2-105 Hz) method of broadband dielectric spectroscopy. It is found that temperature dependence σdc consists of two sections: above the glass transition temperature ( T g), the dependence corresponds to the empirical Vogel-Fulcher-Tammann law (Vogel temperature T 0 does not depend on the NP concentration); below T g, the dependence is Arrhenius with activation energy E a ≈ 1.2 eV. In the region where T > T g, the σdc value grows along with NP concentration. It is concluded that the observed broken form of the temperature dependence is apparently due to a change in the conduction mechanism after the freezing of ion mobility at temperatures below T g.

Personalized Approaches to Clopidogrel Therapy: Are We There Yet?

PubMed Central

Anderson, Christopher D.; Biffi, Alessandro; Greenberg, Steven M.; Rosand, Jonathan

2010-01-01

Clopidogrel is one of the most commonly prescribed medications world-wide. Recent advisories from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have drawn attention to the possibility of personalized decision-making for individuals who are candidates for clopidogrel. As is the case with antihypertensives, statins and warfarin, common genetic sequence variants can influence clopidogrel metabolism and its effect on platelet activity. These genetic variants have, in multiple studies, been associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Concurrent medication use also influences the body's handling of clopidogrel. Proton pump inhibitors, widely prescribed in conjunction with clopidogrel, may blunt its effectiveness. We address implications for bedside decision-making in light of accumulated data and current FDA advisories, and conclude that genetic testing for CYP2C19 genotype and limitation of PPI interactions do not yet appear to offer an opportunity to optimize treatment given the current state of knowledge. PMID:21030701

The pressing need for real-time risk assessment of hospital-acquired acute kidney injury.

PubMed

Warnock, David G

2017-05-01

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) is associated with short- and long-term outcomes that reflect the severity of the injury. Recent studies have suggested that 'early' initiation of renal replacement therapy may alter the course of AKI and improve short-term outcomes like inpatient mortality. The current Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) consensus definition of AKI has been criticized for misclassification bias, lack of sensitivity and the static manner in which AKI stages are defined. This editorial reviews various approaches to improving the specificity and sensitivity of the KDIGO AKI criteria, and also concludes that a staging system based on creatinine trajectories would be better suited for developing a prognostic index for real-time, dynamic risk assessment that the current KDIGO staging criteria. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of ERA-EDTA. All rights reserved.

Soil Organic Matter (SOM): Molecular Simulations

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Andersen, Amity

Molecular simulation is a powerful tool used to gain an atomistic, molecular, and nanoscale level understanding of the structure, dynamics, and interactions from adsorption on minerals and assembly in aggregates of soil organic matter (SOM). Given the importance of SOM fate and persistence in soils and the current knowledge gaps, applications of atomistic scale simulations to study the complex compounds in SOM and their interactions in self-assembled aggregates composed of different organic matter compounds and with mineral surfaces of different types common in soils are few and far between. Here, we describe various molecular simulation methods that are currently inmore » use in various areas and applicable to SOM research, followed by a brief survey of specific applications to SOM research and an illustration with our own recent efforts in this area. We conclude with an outlook and the challenges for future research in this area.« less

Input-current shaped ac to dc converters

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1986-01-01

The problem of achieving near unity power factor while supplying power to a dc load from a single phase ac source of power is examined. Power processors for this application must perform three functions: input current shaping, energy storage, and output voltage regulation. The methods available for performing each of these three functions are reviewed. Input current shaping methods are either active or passive, with the active methods divided into buck-like and boost-like techniques. In addition to large reactances, energy storage methods include resonant filters, active filters, and active storage schemes. Fast voltage regulation can be achieved by post regulation or by supplementing the current shaping topology with an extra switch. Some indications of which methods are best suited for particular applications concludes the discussion.

MULTIPLE CURRENT SHEET SYSTEMS IN THE OUTER HELIOSPHERE: ENERGY RELEASE AND TURBULENCE

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Burgess, D.; Gingell, P. W.; Matteini, L.

2016-05-01

In the outer heliosphere, beyond the solar wind termination shock, it is expected that the warped heliospheric current sheet forms a region of closely packed, multiple, thin current sheets. Such a system may be subject to the ion-kinetic tearing instability, and hence may generate magnetic islands and hot populations of ions associated with magnetic reconnection. Reconnection processes in this environment have important implications for local particle transport, and for particle acceleration at reconnection sites and in turbulence. We study this complex environment by means of three-dimensional hybrid simulations over long timescales, in order to capture the evolution from linear growthmore » of the tearing instability to a fully developed turbulent state at late times. The final state develops from the highly ordered initial state via both forward and inverse cascades. Component and spectral anisotropy in the magnetic fluctuations is present when a guide field is included. The inclusion of a population of newborn interstellar pickup protons does not strongly affect these results. Finally, we conclude that reconnection between multiple current sheets can act as an important source of turbulence in the outer heliosphere, with implications for energetic particle acceleration and propagation.« less

Determining the Impact of Steady-State PV Fault Current Injections on Distribution Protection

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Seuss, John; Reno, Matthew J.; Broderick, Robert Joseph

This report investigates the fault current contribution from a single large PV system and the impact it has on existing distribution overcurrent protection devices. Assumptions are made about the modeling of the PV system under fault to perform exhaustive steady - state fault analyses throughout distribution feeder models. Each PV interconnection location is tested to determine how the size of the PV system affects the fault current measured by each protection device. This data is then searched for logical conditions that indicate whether a protection device has operated in a manner that will cause more customer outages due to themore » addition of the PV system. This is referred to as a protection issue , and there are four unique types of issues that have been identified in the study. The PV system size at which any issues occur are recorded to determine the feeder's PV hosting capacity limitations due to interference with protection settings. The analysis is carried out on six feeder models. The report concludes with a discussion of the prevalence and cause of each protection issue caused by PV system fault current.« less

Effectiveness of diadynamic currents and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation in disc disease lumbar part of spine.

PubMed

Ratajczak, Barbara; Hawrylak, Arletta; Demidaś, Aneta; Kuciel-Lewandowska, Jadwiga; Boerner, Ewa

2011-01-01

Back pain has multi-factorial etiology and is modified by environmental influences, character of work, and individual predispositions. The aim of this study was to compare the efficiency of analgesic DD current therapy and TENS in low back discopathy. Eighty patients (age, 45-60 years) with diagnosed low back pain syndrome due to discopathy were subjected to therapy. In the first group (DD) of 40 people, DD current therapy was applied. In the second group (TENS) of 40 people, TENS was applied. The third group of 40 people was a control group in which a functional fitness test was performed for comparison purposes. The control group was in this case an equivalent to a norm. Before the beginning and on the completion of therapy in all patients, a pain level measurement and functional fitness test were performed. On the basis of research conducted it was stated that both therapies reduce pain level effectively. Obtained analyzed results conclude that both therapies applied have an analgesic effect. DD current and TENS therapies in low back discopathy have an analgesic impact and improve functional fitness. The applied therapies have a comparable impact on researched parameters.

Current-voltage characteristics of manganite-titanite perovskite junctions.

PubMed

Ifland, Benedikt; Peretzki, Patrick; Kressdorf, Birte; Saring, Philipp; Kelling, Andreas; Seibt, Michael; Jooss, Christian

2015-01-01

After a general introduction into the Shockley theory of current voltage (J-V) characteristics of inorganic and organic semiconductor junctions of different bandwidth, we apply the Shockley theory-based, one diode model to a new type of perovskite junctions with polaronic charge carriers. In particular, we studied manganite-titanate p-n heterojunctions made of n-doped SrTi1- y Nb y O3, y = 0.002 and p-doped Pr1- x Ca x MnO3, x = 0.34 having a strongly correlated electron system. The diffusion length of the polaron carriers was analyzed by electron beam-induced current (EBIC) in a thin cross plane lamella of the junction. In the J-V characteristics, the polaronic nature of the charge carriers is exhibited mainly by the temperature dependence of the microscopic parameters, such as the hopping mobility of the series resistance and a colossal electro-resistance (CER) effect in the parallel resistance. We conclude that a modification of the Shockley equation incorporating voltage-dependent microscopic polaron parameters is required. Specifically, the voltage dependence of the reverse saturation current density is analyzed and interpreted as a voltage-dependent electron-polaron hole-polaron pair generation and separation at the interface.

Proton irradiation of CVD diamond detectors for high-luminosity experiments at the LHC

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meier, D.; Adam, W.; Bauer, C.; Berdermann, E.; Bergonzo, P.; Bogani, F.; Borchi, E.; Bruzzi, M.; Colledani, C.; Conway, J.; Dabrowski, W.; Delpierre, P.; Deneuville, A.; Dulinski, W.; van Eijk, B.; Fallou, A.; Foulon, F.; Friedl, M.; Jany, C.; Gan, K. K.; Gheeraert, E.; Grigoriev, E.; Hallewell, G.; Hall-Wilton, R.; Han, S.; Hartjes, F.; Hrubec, J.; Husson, D.; Kagan, H.; Kania, D.; Kaplon, J.; Kass, R.; Knöpfle, K. T.; Krammer, M.; Manfredi, P. F.; Marshall, R. D.; Mishina, M.; Le Normand, F.; Pan, L. S.; Palmieri, V. G.; Pernegger, H.; Pernicka, M.; Peitz, A.; Pirollo, S.; Pretzl, K.; Re, V.; Riester, J. L.; Roe, S.; Roff, D.; Rudge, A.; Schnetzer, S.; Sciortino, S.; Speziali, V.; Stelzer, H.; Stone, R.; Tapper, R. J.; Tesarek, R.; Thomson, G. B.; Trawick, M.; Trischuk, W.; Turchetta, R.; Walsh, A. M.; Wedenig, R.; Weilhammer, P.; Ziock, H.; Zoeller, M.; RD42 Collaboration

1999-04-01

CVD diamond shows promising properties for use as a position-sensitive detector for experiments in the highest radiation areas at the Large Hadron Collider. In order to study the radiation hardness of diamond we exposed CVD diamond detector samples to 24 Gev/ c and 500 Mev protons up to a fluence of 5×10 15 p/cm 2. We measured the charge collection distance, the average distance electron-hole pairs move apart in an external electric field, and leakage currents before, during, and after irradiation. The charge collection distance remains unchanged up to 1×10 15 p/cm 2 and decreases by ≈40% at 5×10 15 p/cm 2. Leakage currents of diamond samples were below 1 pA before and after irradiation. The particle-induced currents during irradiation correlate well with the proton flux. In contrast to diamond, a silicon diode, which was irradiated for comparison, shows the known large increase in leakage current. We conclude that CVD diamond detectors are radiation hard to 24 GeV/ c and 500 MeV protons up to at least 1×10 15p/cm 2 without signal loss.

Enhancement of delayed-rectifier potassium conductance by low concentrations of local anaesthetics in spinal sensory neurones

PubMed Central

Olschewski, Andrea; Wolff, Matthias; Bräu, Michael E; Hempelmann, Gunter; Vogel, Werner; Safronov, Boris V

2002-01-01

Combining the patch-clamp recordings in slice preparation with the ‘entire soma isolation' method we studied action of several local anaesthetics on delayed-rectifier K+ currents in spinal dorsal horn neurones.Bupivacaine, lidocaine and mepivacaine at low concentrations (1–100 μM) enhanced delayed-rectifier K+ current in intact neurones within the spinal cord slice, while exhibiting a partial blocking effect at higher concentrations (>100 μM). In isolated somata 0.1–10 μM bupivacaine enhanced delayed-rectifier K+ current by shifting its steady-state activation characteristic and the voltage-dependence of the activation time constant to more negative potentials by 10–20 mV.Detailed analysis has revealed that bupivacaine also increased the maximum delayed-rectifier K+ conductance by changing the open probability, rather than the unitary conductance, of the channel.It is concluded that local anaesthetics show a dual effect on delayed-rectifier K+ currents by potentiating them at low concentrations and partially suppressing at high concentrations. The phenomenon observed demonstrated the complex action of local anaesthetics during spinal and epidural anaesthesia, which is not restricted to a suppression of Na+ conductance only. PMID:12055132

Comparative analyses of plasma probe diagnostics techniques

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Godyak, V. A.; Alexandrovich, B. M.

The subject of this paper is a comparative analysis of the plasma parameters inferred from the classical Langmuir probe procedure, from different theories of the ion current to the probe, and from measured electron energy distribution function (EEDF) obtained by double differentiation of the probe characteristic. We concluded that the plasma parameters inferred from the classical Langmuir procedure can be subjected to significant inaccuracy due to the non-Maxwellian EEDF, uncertainty of locating the plasma potential, and the arbitrariness of the ion current approximation. The plasma densities derived from the ion part of the probe characteristics diverge by as much asmore » an order of magnitude from the density calculated according to Langmuir procedure or calculated as corresponding integral of the measured EEDF. The electron temperature extracted from the ion part is always subjected to uncertainty. Such inaccuracy is attributed to modification of the EEDF for fast electrons due to inelastic electron collisions, and to deficiencies in the existing ion current theories; i.e., unrealistic assumptions about Maxwellian EEDFs, underestimation of the ion collisions and the ion ambipolar drift, and discounting deformation of the one-dimensional structure of the region perturbed by the probe. We concluded that EEDF measurement is the single reliable probe diagnostics for the basic research and industrial applications of highly non-equilibrium gas discharge plasmas. Examples of EEDF measurements point up importance of examining the probe current derivatives in real time and reiterate significance of the equipment technical characteristics, such as high energy resolution and wide dynamic range.« less

Comparative analyses of plasma probe diagnostics techniques

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Godyak, V. A.; Alexandrovich, B. M.

2015-12-01

The subject of this paper is a comparative analysis of the plasma parameters inferred from the classical Langmuir probe procedure, from different theories of the ion current to the probe, and from measured electron energy distribution function (EEDF) obtained by double differentiation of the probe characteristic. We concluded that the plasma parameters inferred from the classical Langmuir procedure can be subjected to significant inaccuracy due to the non-Maxwellian EEDF, uncertainty of locating the plasma potential, and the arbitrariness of the ion current approximation. The plasma densities derived from the ion part of the probe characteristics diverge by as much as an order of magnitude from the density calculated according to Langmuir procedure or calculated as corresponding integral of the measured EEDF. The electron temperature extracted from the ion part is always subjected to uncertainty. Such inaccuracy is attributed to modification of the EEDF for fast electrons due to inelastic electron collisions, and to deficiencies in the existing ion current theories; i.e., unrealistic assumptions about Maxwellian EEDFs, underestimation of the ion collisions and the ion ambipolar drift, and discounting deformation of the one-dimensional structure of the region perturbed by the probe. We concluded that EEDF measurement is the single reliable probe diagnostics for the basic research and industrial applications of highly non-equilibrium gas discharge plasmas. Examples of EEDF measurements point up importance of examining the probe current derivatives in real time and reiterate significance of the equipment technical characteristics, such as high energy resolution and wide dynamic range.

Evaluation, development, and characterization of superconducting materials for space applications

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thorpe, Arthur N.

1990-01-01

The anisotropic electromagnetic features of a grain-aligned YBa2Cu3O(x) bulk sample derived from a process of long-time partial melt growth were investigated by the measurements of direct current magnetization (at 77 K) and alternating current susceptibility as a function of temperature, with the fields applied parallel and perpendicular to the c axis, respectively. The extended Bean model was further studied and applied to explain the experimental results. Upon comparison of the grain-aligned sample with pure single crystal materials, it is concluded that because of the existence of more effective pinning sites in the grain-aligned sample, not only its critical current density perpendicular to the c axis is improved, but the one parallel to the c axis is improved even more significantly. The anisotropy in the critical current densities in the grain-aligned sample at 77 K is at least one to two orders of magnitude smaller than in the pure single crystal. The measurement of anisotropy of alternating current susceptibility as a function of temperature, especially its imaginary part, shows that there are still some residues of interlayer weak links in the grain-aligned samples, but they are quite different from and far less serious than the weak links in the sintered sample.

Fire detection and incidents localization based on public information channels and social media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thanos, Konstantinos-Georgios; Skroumpelou, Katerina; Rizogiannis, Konstantinos; Kyriazanos, Dimitris M.; Astyakopoulos, Alkiviadis; Thomopoulos, Stelios C. A.

2017-05-01

In this paper a solution is presented aiming to assist the early detection and localization of a fire incident by exploiting crowdsourcing and unofficial civilian online reports. It consists of two components: (a) the potential fire incident detection and (b) the visualization component. The first component comprises two modules that run in parallel and aim to collect reports posted on public platforms and conclude to potential fire incident locations. It collects the public reports, distinguishes reports that refer to a potential fire incident and store the corresponding information in a structured way. The second module aggregates all these stored reports and conclude to a probable fire location, based on the amount of reports per area, the time and location of these reports. In further the result is entered to a fusion module which combines it with information collected by sensors if available in order to provide a more accurate fire event detection capability. The visualization component is a fully - operational public information channel which provides accurate and up-to-date information about active and past fires, raises awareness about forest fires and the relevant hazards among citizens. The channel has visualization capabilities for presenting in an efficient way information regarding detected fire incidents fire expansion areas, and relevant information such as detecting sensors and reporting origin. The paper concludes with insight to current CONOPS end user with regards to the inclusion of the proposed solution to the current CONOPS of fire detection.

Evaluation of Energy Efficiency Performance of Heated Windows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jammulamadaka, Hari Swarup

The study about the evaluation of the performance of the heated windows was funded by the WVU Research Office as a technical assistance award at the 2014 TransTech Energy Business Development Conference to the Green Heated Glass company/project owned by Frank Dlubak. The award supports a WVU researcher to conduct a project important for commercialization. This project was awarded to the WVU Industrial Assessment Center in 2015. The current study attempted to evaluate the performance of the heated windows by developing an experimental setup to test the window at various temperatures by varying the current input to the window. The heated double pane window was installed in an insulated box. A temperature gradient was developed across the window by cooling one side of the window using gel based ice packs. The other face of the window was heated by passing current at different wattages through the window. The temperature of the inside and outside panes, current and voltage input, room and box temperature were recorded, and used to calculate the apparent R-value of the window when not being heated vs when being heated. It has been concluded from the study that the heated double pane window is more effective in reducing heat losses by as much as 50% than a non-heated double pane window, if the window temperature is maintained close to the room temperature. If the temperature of the window is much higher than the room temperature, the losses through the window appear to increase beyond that of a non-heated counterpart. The issues encountered during the current round of experiments are noted, and recommendations provided for future studies.

Use of lecture recordings in dental education: assessment of status quo and recommendations.

PubMed

Horvath, Zsuzsa; O'Donnell, Jean A; Johnson, Lynn A; Karimbux, Nadeem Y; Shuler, Charles F; Spallek, Heiko

2013-11-01

This research project was part of a planned initiative at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine to incorporate lecture recordings as standard educational support technologies. The goal of an institutional survey was 1) to gather current data about how dental educators across the United States and Canada use lecture recordings; 2) determine dental educators' perceived value and outcomes of using lecture recordings; and 3) develop recommendations based on #1 and #2 for the dental education community. Of the sixty-six North American dental schools at the time of the study, forty-five schools responded to the survey, for a 68 percent response rate. Of the respondents, twenty-eight schools were found to currently conduct lecture recording; these comprised the study sample. This study focused on the dental schools' past experiences with lecture recording; thus, those not currently engaged in lecture recording were excluded from further analysis. The survey questions covered a wide range of topics, such as the scope of the lecture recording, logistics, instructional design considerations, outcomes related to student learning, evaluation and reception, barriers to lecture recording, and issues related to copyright and intellectual property. The literature review and results from the survey showed that no common guidelines for best practice were available regarding lecture recordings in dental education. The article concludes with some preliminary recommendations based on this study.

CORRELATING NEUROBEHAVIORAL PERFORMANCE WITH BIOMARKERS OF ORGANOPHOSPHOROUS PESTICIDE EXPOSURE

PubMed Central

Rohlman, Diane S.; Anger, W Kent; Lein, Pamela J

2011-01-01

There is compelling evidence that adverse neurobehavioral effects are associated with occupational organophosphorous pesticide (OP) exposure in humans. Behavioral studies of pesticide applicators, greenhouse workers, agricultural workers and farm residents exposed repeatedly over months or years to low levels of OPs reveal a relatively consistent pattern of neurobehavioral deficits. However, only two studies have demonstrated a link between neurobehavioral performance and current biomarkers of OP exposure including blood cholinesterase (ChE) activity and urinary levels of OP metabolites. A variety of reasons may explain why so few studies have reported such correlations, including differing individual and group exposure histories, differing methodologies for assessing behavior and exposure, and lack of a reliable index of exposure. Alternatively, these data may suggest that current biomarkers (ChE, urine metabolites) are neither predictive nor diagnostic of the neurobehavioral effects of chronic OP pesticide exposures. This review focuses on the evidence that neurobehavioral performance deficits are associated with occupational OP pesticide exposure and concludes that research needs to return to the basics and rigorously test the relationships between neurobehavioral performance and both current (ChE and urine metabolites) and novel (eg, inflammation and oxidative stress) biomarkers using human and animal models. The results of such studies are critically important because OP pesticides are widely and extensively used throughout the world, including situations where exposure controls and personal protective equipment are not routinely used. PMID:21182866

Bumetanide increases Cl--dependent short-circuit current in late distal colon: Evidence for the presence of active electrogenic Cl- absorption.

PubMed

Tang, Lieqi; Fang, Xiefan; Winesett, Steven P; Cheng, Catherine Y; Binder, Henry J; Rivkees, Scott A; Cheng, Sam X

2017-01-01

Mammalian colonic epithelia consist of cells that are capable of both absorbing and secreting Cl-. The present studies employing Ussing chamber technique identified two opposing short-circuit current (Isc) responses to basolateral bumetanide in rat distal colon. Apart from the transepithelial Cl--secretory Isc in early distal colon that was inhibited by bumetanide, bumetanide also stimulated Isc in late distal colon that had not previously been identified. Since bumetanide inhibits basolateral Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter (NKCC) in crypt cells and basolateral K+-Cl- cotransporter (KCC) in surface epithelium, we proposed this stimulatory Isc could represent a KCC-mediated Cl- absorptive current. In support of this hypothesis, ion substitution experiments established Cl- dependency of this absorptive Isc and transport inhibitor studies demonstrated the involvement of an apical Cl- conductance. Current distribution and RNA sequencing analyses revealed that this Cl- absorptive Isc is closely associated with epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) but is not dependent on ENaC activity. Thus, inhibition of ENaC by 10 μM amiloride or benzamil neither altered the direction nor its activity. Physiological studies suggested that this Cl- absorptive Isc senses dietary Cl- content; thus when dietary Cl- was low, Cl- absorptive Isc was up-regulated. In contrast, when dietary Cl- was increased, Cl- absorptive Isc was down-regulated. We conclude that an active Cl- extrusion mechanism exists in ENaC-expressing late distal colon and likely operates in parallel with ENaC to facilitate NaCl absorption.

Effective Lagrangians and Current Algebra in Three Dimensions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferretti, Gabriele

In this thesis we study three dimensional field theories that arise as effective Lagrangians of quantum chromodynamics in Minkowski space with signature (2,1) (QCD3). In the first chapter, we explain the method of effective Langrangians and the relevance of current algebra techniques to field theory. We also provide the physical motivations for the study of QCD3 as a toy model for confinement and as a theory of quantum antiferromagnets (QAF). In chapter two, we derive the relevant effective Lagrangian by studying the low energy behavior of QCD3, paying particular attention to how the global symmetries are realized at the quantum level. In chapter three, we show how baryons arise as topological solitons of the effective Lagrangian and also show that their statistics depends on the number of colors as predicted by the quark model. We calculate mass splitting and magnetic moments of the soliton and find logarithmic corrections to the naive quark model predictions. In chapter four, we drive the current algebra of the theory. We find that the current algebra is a co -homologically non-trivial generalization of Kac-Moody algebras to three dimensions. This fact may provide a new, non -perturbative way to quantize the theory. In chapter five, we discuss the renormalizability of the model in the large-N expansion. We prove the validity of the non-renormalization theorem and compute the critical exponents in a specific limiting case, the CP^ {N-1} model with a Chern-Simons term. Finally, chapter six contains some brief concluding remarks.

Integrating technology education concepts into China's educational system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yang, Faxian

The problem of this study was to develop a strategy for integrating technology education concepts within the Chinese mathematics and science curricula. The researcher used a case study as the basic methodology. It included three methods for collecting data: literature review, field study in junior and senior secondary schools in America and China, and interviews with experienced educators who were familiar with the status of technology education programs in the selected countries. The data came from the following areas: Japan, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, China, and five states in the United States: Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, and New York. The researcher summarized each state and country's educational data, identified the advantages and disadvantages of their current technology education program, and identified the major concepts within each program. The process determined that identified concepts would be readily acceptable into the current Chinese educational system. Modernization of, industry, agriculture, science and technology, and defense have been recent objectives of the Chinese government. Therefore, Chinese understanding of technology, or technology education, became important for the country. However, traditional thought and culture curb the implementation of technology education within China's current education system. The proposed solution was to integrate technology education concepts into China's mathematics and science curricula. The purpose of the integration was to put new thoughts and methods into the current educational structure. It was concluded that the proposed model and interventions would allow Chinese educators to carry out the integration into China's education system.

The investigation of the cellular electrophysiological and antiarrhythmic effects of a novel selective sodium-calcium exchanger inhibitor, GYKB-6635, in canine and guinea-pig hearts.

PubMed

Geramipour, Amir; Kohajda, Zsófia; Corici, Claudia; Prorok, János; Szakonyi, Zsolt; Oravecz, Kinga; Márton, Zoltán; Nagy, Norbert; Tóth, András; Acsai, Károly; Virág, László; Varró, András; Jost, Norbert

2016-10-01

The sodium-calcium exchanger (NCX) is considered as the major transmembrane transport mechanism that controls Ca 2+ homeostasis. Its contribution to the cardiac repolarization has not yet been directly studied due to lack of specific inhibitors, so that an urgent need for more selective compounds. In this study, the electrophysiological effects of GYKB-6635, a novel NCX inhibitor, on the NCX, L-type calcium, and main repolarizing potassium currents as well as action potential (AP) parameters were investigated. Ion currents and AP recordings were investigated by applying the whole-cell patch clamp and standard microelectrode techniques in canine heart at 37 °C. Effects of GYKB-6635 were studied in ouabain-induced arrhythmias in isolated guinea-pig hearts. At a concentration of 1 μmol/L, GYKB significantly reduced both the inward and outward NCX currents (57% and 58%, respectively). Even at a high concentration (10 μmol/L), GYKB-6635 did not change the I CaL , the maximum rate of depolarization (dV/dt max ), the main repolarizing K + currents, and the main AP parameters. GYKB-6635 pre-treatment significantly delayed the time to the development of ventricular fibrillation (by about 18%). It is concluded that GYKB-6635 is a potent and highly selective inhibitor of the cardiac NCX and, in addition, it is suggested to also contribute to the prevention of DAD-based arrhythmias.

Characterization of superconducting nanowire single-photon detector with artificial constrictions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhang, Ling; Liu, Dengkuan; Wu, Junjie

2014-06-15

Statistical studies on the performance of different superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors (SNSPDs) on one chip suggested that random constrictions existed in the nanowire that were barely registered by scanning electron microscopy. With the aid of advanced e-beam lithography, artificial geometric constrictions were fabricated on SNSPDs as well as single nanowires. In this way, we studied the influence of artificial constrictions on SNSPDs in a straight forward manner. By introducing artificial constrictions with different wire widths in single nanowires, we concluded that the dark counts of SNSPDs originate from a single constriction. Further introducing artificial constrictions in SNSPDs, we studied themore » relationship between detection efficiency and kinetic inductance and the bias current, confirming the hypothesis that constrictions exist in SNSPDs.« less

Population pharmacogenetics of Ibero-Latinoamerican populations (MESTIFAR 2014).

PubMed

Sosa-Macias, Martha; Moya, Graciela E; LLerena, Adrián; Ramírez, Ronald; Terán, Enrique; Peñas-LLedó, Eva M; Tarazona-Santos, Eduardo; Galaviz-Hernández, Carlos; Céspedes-Garro, Carolina; Acosta, Hildaura

2015-01-01

MESTIFAR 2014 28-30 November 2014, Panama City, Panama The CEIBA consortium was created within the Ibero-American network of Pharmacogenetics (RIBEF) to study population pharmacogenetics. The current status of these initiatives and results of the MESTIFAR project were analyzed in Panama, 28-30 November 2014. The MESTIFAR project focused on studying CYPs genetic polymorphisms in populations of different ethnic origin. So far, more than 6000 healthy volunteers have been evaluated, making this one of the largest population pharmacogenomic studies worldwide. Three symposia were organized, 'Pharmacogenetics of indigenous and mestizos populations and its clinical implications', 'Methodological innovation in pharmacogenetics and its application in health', and 'General discussion and concluding remarks', about mechanisms and proposals for training, diffusion of pharmacogenetics for Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking health professionals, and 'bench to bedside' pilot projects.

An overview of 3D software visualization.

PubMed

Teyseyre, Alfredo R; Campo, Marcelo R

2009-01-01

Software visualization studies techniques and methods for graphically representing different aspects of software. Its main goal is to enhance, simplify and clarify the mental representation a software engineer has of a computer system. During many years, visualization in 2D space has been actively studied, but in the last decade, researchers have begun to explore new 3D representations for visualizing software. In this article, we present an overview of current research in the area, describing several major aspects like: visual representations, interaction issues, evaluation methods and development tools. We also perform a survey of some representative tools to support different tasks, i.e., software maintenance and comprehension, requirements validation and algorithm animation for educational purposes, among others. Finally, we conclude identifying future research directions.

Neural Plasticity following Abacus Training in Humans: A Review and Future Directions

PubMed Central

Li, Yongxin; Chen, Feiyan; Huang, Wenhua

2016-01-01

The human brain has an enormous capacity to adapt to a broad variety of environmental demands. Previous studies in the field of abacus training have shown that this training can induce specific changes in the brain. However, the neural mechanism underlying these changes remains elusive. Here, we reviewed the behavioral and imaging findings of comparisons between abacus experts and average control subjects and focused on changes in activation patterns and changes in brain structure. Finally, we noted the limitations and the future directions of this field. We concluded that although current studies have provided us with information about the mechanisms of abacus training, more research on abacus training is needed to understand its neural impact. PMID:26881089

Violence and school shootings.

PubMed

Flannery, Daniel J; Modzeleski, William; Kretschmar, Jeff M

2013-01-01

Multiple-homicide school shootings are rare events, but when they happen they significantly impact individuals, the school and the community. We focus on multiple-homicide incidents and identified mental health issues of shooters. To date, studies of school shootings have concluded that no reliable profile of a shooter exists, so risk should be assessed using comprehensive threat assessment protocols. Existing studies primarily utilize retrospective case histories or media accounts. The field requires more empirical and systematic research on all types of school shootings including single victim incidents, those that result in injury but not death and those that are successfully averted. We discuss current policies and practices related to school shootings and the role of mental health professionals in assessing risk and supporting surviving victims.

Group Facial Width-to-Height Ratio Predicts Intergroup Negotiation Outcomes

PubMed Central

Yang, Yu; Tang, Chen; Qu, Xiaofei; Wang, Chao; Denson, Thomas F.

2018-01-01

Past studies have found that the facial width-to-height ratio (FWHR) is associated with a range of traits and behaviors that are possibly important to dyadic negotiations. However, it is unknown whether the FWHR would have an impact on intergroup negotiations, which happen frequently and often have higher stakes in the real world. To examine this question, in the current study, we randomly assigned 1,337 Chinese business executives into 288 groups and they completed a multi-issue negotiation exercise against each other. Results showed that groups with larger maximum individual FWHRs achieved objectively better negotiation outcomes. We conclude that groups containing individuals with relatively large FWHRs can claim more value in negotiations between groups. PMID:29515511

Visualization of Underfill Flow in Ball Grid Array (BGA) using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ng, Fei Chong; Abas, Aizat; Abustan, Ismail; Remy Rozainy, Z. Mohd; Abdullah, MZ; Jamaludin, Ali b.; Kon, Sharon Melissa

2018-05-01

This paper presents the experimental methodology using particle image velocimetry (PIV) to study the underfill process of ball grid array (BGA) chip package. PIV is a non-intrusive approach to visualize the flow behavior of underfill across the solder ball array. The BGA model of three different configurations – perimeter, middle empty and full array – were studied in current research. Through PIV experimental works, the underfill velocity distribution and vector fields for each BGA models were successfully obtained. It is found that perimeter has the shortest filling time resulting to a higher underfill velocity. Therefore, it is concluded that the flow behavior of underfill in BGA can be justified thoroughly with the aid of PIV.

The Effectiveness of the Snug Vest on Stereotypic Behaviors in Children Diagnosed With an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

PubMed

Watkins, Nicholas; Sparling, Elizabeth

2014-05-01

Various reviews of the effects of sensory integration therapy (SIT) have concluded that such interventions fail to reduce stereotypy. However, a new, and as yet untested, SIT iteration, an inflatable wearable vest known as the Snug Vest purports to decrease such repetitive behavior. In the current study, three children who emitted different forms of stereotypy participated in an alternating treatments design in which each participant wore a fully inflated vest and either a fully deflated vest or no vest. The results of the study show that the Snug Vest failed to reduce any participants' stereotypy. We highlight our findings in the context of professional practice and discuss several potential limitations. © The Author(s) 2014.

Molecular detection of Fasciola hepatica in water sources of District Nowshehra Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Imran; Khan, Amir Muhammad; Ayaz, Khan, Sanaullah; Anees, Muhammad; Khan, Shaukat Ali

2012-12-01

Fascioliasis is spread through contamination of water sources and cause morbidity throughout the world. In the current study 300 water samples were processed by PCR for detection of Fasciola hepatica. The overall prevalence in different water sources was 9.66 % (29/300). Highest prevalence was recorded in drain water16 % (16/100) followed by tube well water 10% (4/40), open well water 8 % (8/100) and the lowest was recorded in tap water 1.66 %(1/60). The significant difference P < 0.05 was recorded during data analysis. The highest prevalence was recorded in summer. It was concluded from the study that cleaning and filtration should be adopted to avoid the health hazards against water borne zoonotic parasites.

Towards Principled Experimental Study of Autonomous Mobile Robots

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gat, Erann

1995-01-01

We review the current state of research in autonomous mobile robots and conclude that there is an inadequate basis for predicting the reliability and behavior of robots operating in unengineered environments. We present a new approach to the study of autonomous mobile robot performance based on formal statistical analysis of independently reproducible experiments conducted on real robots. Simulators serve as models rather than experimental surrogates. We demonstrate three new results: 1) Two commonly used performance metrics (time and distance) are not as well correlated as is often tacitly assumed. 2) The probability distributions of these performance metrics are exponential rather than normal, and 3) a modular, object-oriented simulation accurately predicts the behavior of the real robot in a statistically significant manner.

Advanced small launch vehicle study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Reins, G. E.; Alvis, J. F.

1972-01-01

A conceptual design study was conducted to determine the most economical (lowest cost/launch) approach for the development of an advanced small launch vehicle (ASLV) for use over the next decade. The ASLV design objective was to place a 340 kg (750 lb) payload into a 556 km (300 n.mi.) circular orbit when launched due east from Wallops Island, Virginia. The investigation encompassed improvements to the current Scout launch vehicle; use of existing military and NASA launch vehicle stages; and new, optionally staged vehicles. Staging analyses included use of liquid, solid, and hybrid propellants. Improvements in guidance, controls, interstages, telemetry, and payload shroud were also considered. It was concluded that the most economical approach is to progressively improve the Scout launch vehicle in three phased steps which are discussed.

An intervention aimed at reducing plagiarism in undergraduate nursing students.

PubMed

Smedley, Alison; Crawford, Tonia; Cloete, Linda

2015-05-01

Plagiarism is a current and developing problem in the tertiary education sector where students access information and reproduce it as their own. It is identified as occurring in many tertiary level degrees including nursing and allied health profession degrees. Nursing specifically, is a profession where standards and ethics are required and honesty is paramount. The aim of this study was to evaluate the change in nursing student's knowledge and understanding of plagiarism before and after an educational intervention in their first semester of the Bachelor of nursing degree at a private college of higher education in Sydney, Australia. This study concluded that an educational intervention can increase knowledge and awareness of plagiarism among nursing students. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

How should novelty be valued in science?

PubMed

Cohen, Barak A

2017-07-25

Scientists are under increasing pressure to do "novel" research. Here I explore whether there are risks to overemphasizing novelty when deciding what constitutes good science. I review studies from the philosophy of science to help understand how important an explicit emphasis on novelty might be for scientific progress. I also review studies from the sociology of science to anticipate how emphasizing novelty might impact the structure and function of the scientific community. I conclude that placing too much value on novelty could have counterproductive effects on both the rate of progress in science and the organization of the scientific community. I finish by recommending that our current emphasis on novelty be replaced by a renewed emphasis on predictive power as a characteristic of good science.

Parent-focused child maltreatment prevention: improving assessment, intervention, and dissemination with technology.

PubMed

Self-Brown, Shannon; Whitaker, Daniel J

2008-11-01

The goal of this article is to examine how technology has been and can be utilized to enhance parent-focused child maltreatment (CM) prevention efforts. The authors begin with a brief discussion of the current state of the CM prevention field. In the sections that follow, they review studies that have examined the use of technology across three facets of prevention: identification of CM, administration/augmentation of CM prevention programs, and broad dissemination and implementation of evidenced-based CM prevention programs. They conclude with a discussion of limitations and problems related to the use of technology as a tool to enhance CM prevention and future directions.

Social exclusion in academia through biases in methodological quality evaluation: On the situation of women in science and philosophy.

PubMed

Leuschner, Anna

2015-12-01

Empirical studies show that academia is socially exclusive. I argue that this social exclusion works, at least partly, through the systematic methodological disqualification of contributions from members of underrepresented social groups. As methodological quality criteria are underdetermined their interpretation and weighting can be biased with relation to gender, race, social background, etc. Such biased quality evaluation can take place on a local or global level. The current situation of women in academic philosophy illuminates this. I conclude that only mechanical solutions can effectively change the situation. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Spotlight on daytime napping during early childhood

PubMed Central

Horváth, Klára; Plunkett, Kim

2018-01-01

Daytime napping undergoes a remarkable change in early childhood, and research regarding its relationship to cognitive development has recently accelerated. In this review, we summarize our current understanding of this relationship focusing on children aged <5 years. First, we evaluate different studies on the basis of the experimental design used and the specific cognitive processes they investigate. Second, we analyze how the napping status of children may modulate the relationship between learning and napping. Third, the possible role of sleep spindles, ie, specific electroencephalographic components during sleep, in cognitive development is explored. We conclude that daytime napping is crucial in early memory development. PMID:29576733

Mission planning, mission analysis and software formulation. Level C requirements for the shuttle mission control center orbital guidance software

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Langston, L. J.

1976-01-01

The formulation of Level C requirements for guidance software was reported. Requirements for a PEG supervisor which controls all input/output interfaces with other processors and determines which PEG mode is to be utilized were studied in detail. A description of the two guidance modes for which Level C requirements have been formulated was presented. Functions required for proper execution of the guidance software were defined. The requirements for a navigation function that is used in the prediction logic of PEG mode 4 were discussed. It is concluded that this function is extracted from the current navigation FSSR.

[National screening for phenylketonuria, congenital hypothyroidism and congenital adrenal hyperplasia].

PubMed

Osório, R V; Vilarinho, L; Soares, J P

1992-03-01

In Portugal the screening for phenylketonuria (PKU) and congenital hypothyroidism (CH) was begun towards the end of 1979, and by 1990 59 cases of PKU and 227 cases of CH had been detected. The early initiation of treatment and the observed mental and motor development, point towards a normal development in these children. A trial screen for congenital adrenal hyperplasia was carried out in 100.000 newborns, from which it was concluded that, under the present conditions, screening at a national level is not justified. A similar study is currently being undertaken for biotinidase deficiency and cystic fibrosis. The results ares discussed, as are the cost/benefits evaluations.

Counting Pakistanis in the Middle East: problems and policy implications.

PubMed

Stahl, C W; Farooq-i-azam

1990-01-01

"Using Pakistan as a case study, this article focuses on the difficulties of measuring both the outflow of workers over time and the stock abroad at any particular time. The various estimates of the number of Pakistanis in the Middle East are evaluated and an alternative estimate is provided based on hitherto unused data from two major surveys of returning workers. The alternative estimate differs substantially from the others, the difference being attributed principally to clandestine worker immigration. The concluding section discusses the policy implications of inaccurate information about the numbers of workers abroad and the likely effects of the current Persian Gulf crisis on Pakistan's economy." excerpt

Far infrared edge photoresponse and persistent edge transport in an inverted InAs/GaSb heterostructure

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dyer, G. C.; Olson, B. V.; Hawkins, S. D.

2016-01-04

Direct current (DC) transport and far infrared photoresponse were studied an InAs/GaSb double quantum well with an inverted band structure. The DC transport depends systematically upon the DC bias configuration and operating temperature. Surprisingly, it reveals robust edge conduction despite prevalent bulk transport in our device of macroscopic size. Under 180 GHz far infrared illumination at oblique incidence, we measured a strong photovoltaic response. We conclude that quantum spin Hall edge transport produces the observed transverse photovoltages. Overall, our experimental results support a hypothesis that the photoresponse arises from direct coupling of the incident radiation field to edge states.

Issues in assessing the contribution of research and development to productivity growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Griliches, Z.

1979-01-01

The article outlines the production function approach to the estimation of the returns to R&D and then proceeds to discuss in turn two very difficult problems: the measurement of output in R&D intensive industries and the definition and measurement of the stock of R&D 'capital'. Multicollinearity and simultaneity are taken up in the next section and another section is devoted to estimation and inference problems arising more specifically in the R&D context. Several recent studies of returns to R&D are then surveyed, and the paper concludes with suggestions for ways of expanding the current data base in this field.

Winglet effects on the flutter of twin-engine-transport type wing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bhatia, K. G.; Nagaraja, K. S.; Ruhlin, C. L.

1984-01-01

Flutter characteristics of a cantilevered high aspect ratio wing with winglet were investigated. The configuration represented a current technology, twin-engine airplane. A low-speed and a high-speed model were used to evaluate compressibility effects through transonic Mach numbers and a wide range of mass-density ratios. Four flutter mechanisms were obtained in test, as well as analysis from various combinations of configuration parameters. The coupling between wing tip vertical and chordwise motions was shown to have significant effect under some conditions. It is concluded that, for the flutter model configurations studied, the winglet related flutter was amenable to the conventional flutter analysis techniques.

Taming The Next Set of Strategic Weapons Threats

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-06-01

Reactors Victor Gilinsky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 6. Coping with Biological Threats after...Regime (MTCR) is not yet optimized to cope with these challenges. Finally, nuclear technologies have become much more difficult to control. New...resistance of the most popular type of power reactor concludes that the current international nuclear safeguards system needs to be modified to cope

What is new in recurrent pregnancy loss?: best articles from the past year.

PubMed

Fox, Nathan S

2015-06-01

This month we focus on current research in recurrent pregnancy loss. Dr. Fox discusses five recent publications, and each is concluded with a "bottom line" that is the take-home message. The complete reference for each can be found in on this page, along with direct links to the abstracts.

Developmental Changes within the Core of Artifact Concepts.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Matan, Adee; Carey, Susan

2001-01-01

Three experiments examined the relative importance of original function and current function in artifact categorization for young children and adults. It was concluded that 6-year-olds have begun to organize their understanding of artifacts around the notion of original function, whereas 4-year-olds have not. Data were examined in terms of how…

Thermal-Mechanical Testing of Hypersonic Vehicle Structures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hudson, Larry; Stephens, Craig

2007-01-01

A viewgraph presentation describing thermal-mechanical tests on the structures of hypersonic vehicles is shown. The topics include: 1) U.S. Laboratories for Hot Structures Testing; 2) NASA Dryden Flight Loads Laboratory; 3) Hot Structures Test Programs; 4) Typical Sequence for Hot Structures Testing; 5) Current Hot Structures Testing; and 6) Concluding Remarks.

Social Justice and Educational Administration: Mutually Exclusive?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Karpinski, Carol F.; Lugg, Catherine A.

2006-01-01

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to explore some of the current tensions within educational administration in the USA and conclude with a few cautions for educators who engage in social justice projects. Design/methodology/approach: Using a selective case, this historical essay examines the issues of social justice and equity as they have…

Children and Computers: New Technology--Old Concerns.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wartella, Ellen A.; Jennings, Nancy

2000-01-01

Places current research on children and computers in historical context with earlier research on the mass media, noting recurrent patterns in 20th century media research. Concludes that to inform and sustain the creation of more quality content for children, further research is needed on the effects of media on children, with new partnerships…

Evaluating the Reference Interview: A Theoretical Discussion of the Desirability and Achievability of Evaluation.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Lisa L.

1991-01-01

Review and examination of the current literature on reference interview evaluation explores the degree to which such evaluative practices are both desirable and achievable. It is concluded that, if both quantitative and qualitative techniques are appropriately used, accurate mechanisms of evaluation are possible and desirable. (17 references) (LRW)

High School Prayers at Graduation: Will the Supreme Court Pronounce the Benediction?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mawdsley, Ralph D.; Russo, Charles J.

1991-01-01

The Supreme Court has decided to address the facts in "Lee v. Weisman" involving the validity of graduation prayer. Reviews the opinions of the current justices regarding the role of the tripartite establishment clause "Lemon" test and concludes with a projection of the court's resolution of the "Lee" case. (73…

Shaping Up the Practice of Null Hypothesis Significance Testing.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wainer, Howard; Robinson, Daniel H.

2003-01-01

Discusses criticisms of null hypothesis significance testing (NHST), suggesting that historical use of NHST was reasonable, and current users should read Sir Ronald Fisher's applied work. Notes that modifications to NHST and interpretations of its outcomes might better suit the needs of modern science. Concludes that NHST is most often useful as…

Trends in Direct Mail Marketing--A Survey of Private Four-Year Colleges.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Jones, Robert H.

1991-01-01

Surveyed 727 principal admission officers at private, 4-year undergraduate liberal arts colleges in U.S. concerning direct mail marketing. Found that 87 percent of respondents reported currently using direct mail marketing, suggesting that it represents a fundamental building block for vast majority of inquiry and applicant pools. Concludes that,…

Analogical Reasoning: What Develops? A Review of Research and Theory.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Goswami, Usha

1991-01-01

Children's analogical reasoning has traditionally been measured by classical four-term analogy tasks or problem-solving tasks. Current theories of analogical development and the evidence on which they are based are reviewed. It is concluded that structural views of analogical development are wrong, and knowledge-based accounts of what develops are…

Hearing loss and employment in the United States.

PubMed

Kooser, Cathy

2013-01-01

This Sounding Board article will briefly review the biopsychosocial impact of hearing loss. It will consider the individual and employment; the laws supporting employment and the current vocational rehabilitation system assisting people with hearing loss remain in the workplace. It concludes with the author's suggestion of three systematic changes to enhance the employee's workplace success.

A review of the literature on the involvement of alcohol in pedestrian collisions resulting in death and injury

DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

1975-02-01

Author's abstract: A review of the literature on the existing state of knowledge of the role of alcohol in pedestrian accidents indicates that little is currently known. It is concluded that more data are needed before the extent of any pedestrian sa...

From Freud to Feminist Personality Theory: Getting Here from There.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lerman, Hannah

1986-01-01

States eight criteria arising out of feminist therapy theory for a woman-based theory of female development and personality. Evaluates Freudian theory, current psychoanalytic theory, and several feminist theories in light of the stated criteria. Concludes that feminists have arrived at some degree of general agreement about personality theory.…

Owned vertical integration and health care: promise and performance.

PubMed

Walston, S L; Kimberly, J R; Burns, L R

1996-01-01

This article examines the alleged benefits and actual outcomes of vertical integration in the health sector and compares them to those observed in other sectors of the economy. This article concludes that the organizational models on which these arrangements are based may be poorly adapted to the current environment in health care.

Genetic effects of habitat fragmentation and population isolation on Etheostoma raneyi (Percidae)

Treesearch

Ken A. Sterling; David H. Reed; Brice P. Noonan; Melvin L. Warren

2012-01-01

The use of genetic methods to quantify the effects of anthropogenic habitat fragmentation on population structure has become increasingly common. However, in today’s highly fragmented habitats, researchers have sometimes concluded that populations are currently genetically isolated due to habitat fragmentation without testing the possibility that populations were...

77 FR 67743 - Federal Employees Health Benefits Program Coverage for Certain Intermittent Employees

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-11-14

... firefighters and fire protection personnel. 77 FR 42417. In addition, in recognition of the fact that there may... agencies to attract and bring emergency workers on board quickly and in recognition of the hazardous conditions those employees often face, OPM has concluded that its current policy of categorically excluding...

Using a Teaching Model To Correct Known Misconceptions in Electrochemistry.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Huddle, Penelope Ann; White, Margaret Dawn; Rogers, Fiona

2000-01-01

Describes a concrete teaching model designed to eliminate students' misconceptions about current flow in electrochemistry. The model uses a semi-permeable membrane rather than a salt bridge to complete the circuit and demonstrate the maintenance of cell neutrality. Concludes that use of the model led to improvement in students' understanding at…

Some Thoughts on Teaching Principles of Macroeconomics.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Boskin, Michael J.

1986-01-01

This article shares the author's personal views about current macroeconomic policy and what ought to be taught at senior high school or freshman college levels. Concludes that Keynesian economics is not dead, but that modern eclectic macroeconomics must focus on basic data about the economy and what is at stake in making decisions based on…

Intercultural Education: Religion, Knowledge and the Limits of Postmodernism

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Coulby, David

2008-01-01

This paper commences with an examination of some of the destructive aspects of religion, past and present. Against this it sets the knowledge and tolerance advocated in the Enlightenment. It goes on to consider the current role of religion in some school systems. It concludes by considering the challenge that the institutionalization of religion…

Teaching Poetry in Elementary Grades: A Review of Related Literature.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Amann, Theresa N.

In order to assess current ideas, reveal their shortcomings, and suggest steps for future investigation, this review of the literature on teaching poetry discusses definitions of poetry, references on teaching poetry, teaching methods, poetic forms, experimental research, and the benefits of poetry. The paper concludes that the lack of empirical…

Time for Détente between Charter and Traditional Public Schools

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Foster, Anne

2014-01-01

The author, a former school board member and currently head of nationwide parent organization, assesses the competition between charter and traditional public schools, concluding that the competition and acrimony among them does not help them deliver a better education. Policies should be focused on helping both types of schools improve education,…

James Madison's Practical Ideals for the 1990s.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Delattre, Edwin J.

This paper examines recent behavior of public officials at various levels of government in the United States, finds a systemic failure to meet ethical standards, and concludes that the wisdom of James Madison has much applicability to current times. Given his keen perception of human nature, Madison would not be too surprised at today's poor…

Approaches for integrated assessment of ecological and eutrophication status of surface waters in Nordic Countries.

PubMed

Andersen, Jesper H; Aroviita, Jukka; Carstensen, Jacob; Friberg, Nikolai; Johnson, Richard K; Kauppila, Pirkko; Lindegarth, Mats; Murray, Ciarán; Norling, Karl

2016-10-01

We review approaches and tools currently used in Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden) for integrated assessment of 'ecological status' sensu the EU Water Framework Directive as well as assessment of 'eutrophication status' in coastal and marine waters. Integration principles for combining indicators within biological quality elements (BQEs) and combining BQEs into a final-integrated assessment are discussed. Specific focus has been put on combining different types of information into indices, since several methods are currently employed. As a consequence of the variety of methods used, comparisons across both BQEs and water categories (river, lakes and coastal waters) can be difficult. Based on our analyses, we conclude that some principles and methods for integration can be critical and that a harmonised approach should be developed. Further, we conclude that the integration principles applied within BQEs are critical and in need of harmonisation if we want a better understanding of potential transition in ecological status between surface water types, e.g. when riverine water enters a downstream lake or coastal water body.

Simulation study on transient electric shock characteristics of human body under high voltage ac transmission lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huang, Tao; Zou, Yanhui; Lv, Jianhong; Yang, Jinchun; Tao, Li; Zhou, Jianfei

2017-09-01

Human body under high-voltage AC transmission lines will produce a certain induced voltage due to the electrostatic induction. When the human body contacts with some grounded objects, the charges transfer from the body to the ground and produce contact current which may cause transient electric shock. Using CDEGS and ATP/EMTP, the paper proposes a method for quantitatively calculating the transient electric shock characteristics. It calculates the human body voltage, discharge current and discharge energy under certain 500kV compact-type transmission lines and predicts the corresponding human feelings. The results show that the average root value of discharge current is less than 10mA when the human body is under the 500kV compact-type transmission lines and the human body is overall safe if the transmission lines satisfy the relevant design specifications. It concludes that the electric field strength above the ground should be limited to 4kV/m through the residential area for the purpose of reducing the electromagnetic impact.

Noise Properties of Rectifying Nanopores

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Powell, M R; Sa, N; Davenport, M

2011-02-18

Ion currents through three types of rectifying nanoporous structures are studied and compared for the first time: conically shaped polymer nanopores, glass nanopipettes, and silicon nitride nanopores. Time signals of ion currents are analyzed by power spectrum. We focus on the low-frequency range where the power spectrum magnitude scales with frequency, f, as 1/f. Glass nanopipettes and polymer nanopores exhibit non-equilibrium 1/f noise, thus the normalized power spectrum depends on the voltage polarity and magnitude. In contrast, 1/f noise in rectifying silicon nitride nanopores is of equilibrium character. Various mechanisms underlying the voltage-dependent 1/f noise are explored and discussed, includingmore » intrinsic pore wall dynamics, and formation of vortices and non-linear flow patterns in the pore. Experimental data are supported by modeling of ion currents based on the coupled Poisson-Nernst-Planck and Navier Stokes equations. We conclude that the voltage-dependent 1/f noise observed in polymer and glass asymmetric nanopores might result from high and asymmetric electric fields inducing secondary effects in the pore such as enhanced water dissociation.« less

Electron Pitch-Angle Distribution in Pressure Balance Structures Measured by Ulysses/SWOOPS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yamauchi, Yohei; Suess, Steven T.; Sakurai, Takashi; Six, N. Frank (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Pressure balance structures (PBSs) are a common feature in the high-latitude solar wind near solar minimum. From previous studies, PBSs are believed to be remnants of coronal plumes. Yamauchi et al [2002] investigated the magnetic structures of the PBSs, applying a minimum variance analysis to Ulysses/Magnetometer data. They found that PBSs contain structures like current sheets or plasmoids, and suggested that PBSs are associated with network activity such as magnetic reconnection in the photosphere at the base of polar plumes. We have investigated energetic electron data from Ulysses/SWOOPS to see whether bi-directional electron flow exists and we have found evidence supporting the earlier conclusions. We find that 45 ot of 53 PBSs show local bi-directional or isotopic electron flux or flux associated with current-sheet structure. Only five events show the pitch-angle distribution expected for Alfvenic fluctuations. We conclude that PBSs do contain magnetic structures such as current sheets or plasmoids that are expected as a result of network activity at the base of polar plumes.

Changing geographic ranges of ticks and tick-borne pathogens: drivers, mechanisms and consequences for pathogen diversity

PubMed Central

Ogden, Nick H.; Mechai, Samir; Margos, Gabriele

2013-01-01

The geographic ranges of ticks and tick-borne pathogens are changing due to global and local environmental (including climatic) changes. In this review we explore current knowledge of the drivers for changes in the ranges of ticks and tick-borne pathogen species and strains via effects on their basic reproduction number (R0), and the mechanisms of dispersal that allow ticks and tick-borne pathogens to invade suitable environments. Using the expanding geographic distribution of the vectors and agent of Lyme disease as an example we then investigate what could be expected of the diversity of tick-borne pathogens during the process of range expansion, and compare this with what is currently being observed. Lastly we explore how historic population and range expansions and contractions could be reflected in the phylogeography of ticks and tick-borne pathogens seen in recent years, and conclude that combined study of currently changing tick and tick-borne pathogen ranges and diversity, with phylogeographic analysis, may help us better predict future patterns of invasion and diversity. PMID:24010124

Changing geographic ranges of ticks and tick-borne pathogens: drivers, mechanisms and consequences for pathogen diversity.

PubMed

Ogden, Nick H; Mechai, Samir; Margos, Gabriele

2013-01-01

The geographic ranges of ticks and tick-borne pathogens are changing due to global and local environmental (including climatic) changes. In this review we explore current knowledge of the drivers for changes in the ranges of ticks and tick-borne pathogen species and strains via effects on their basic reproduction number (R 0), and the mechanisms of dispersal that allow ticks and tick-borne pathogens to invade suitable environments. Using the expanding geographic distribution of the vectors and agent of Lyme disease as an example we then investigate what could be expected of the diversity of tick-borne pathogens during the process of range expansion, and compare this with what is currently being observed. Lastly we explore how historic population and range expansions and contractions could be reflected in the phylogeography of ticks and tick-borne pathogens seen in recent years, and conclude that combined study of currently changing tick and tick-borne pathogen ranges and diversity, with phylogeographic analysis, may help us better predict future patterns of invasion and diversity.

3D digital headform models of Australian cyclists.

PubMed

Ellena, Thierry; Skals, Sebastian; Subic, Aleksandar; Mustafa, Helmy; Pang, Toh Yen

2017-03-01

Traditional 1D anthropometric data have been the primary source of information used by ergonomists for the dimensioning of head and facial gear. Although these data are simple to use and understand, they only provide univariate measures of key dimensions. 3D anthropometric data, however, describe the complete shape characteristics of the head surface, but are complicated to interpret due to the abundance of information they contain. Consequently, current headform standards based on 1D measurements may not adequately represent the actual head shape variations of the intended user groups. The purpose of this study was to introduce a set of new digital headform models representative of the adult cyclists' community in Australia. Four models were generated based on an Australian 3D anthropometric database of head shapes and a modified hierarchical clustering algorithm. Considerable shape differences were identified between our models and the current headforms from the Australian standard. We conclude that the design of head and facial gear based on current standards might not be favorable for optimal fitting results. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Next generation data systems and knowledge products to support agricultural producers and science-based policy decision making.

PubMed

Capalbo, Susan M; Antle, John M; Seavert, Clark

2017-07-01

Research on next generation agricultural systems models shows that the most important current limitation is data, both for on-farm decision support and for research investment and policy decision making. One of the greatest data challenges is to obtain reliable data on farm management decision making, both for current conditions and under scenarios of changed bio-physical and socio-economic conditions. This paper presents a framework for the use of farm-level and landscape-scale models and data to provide analysis that could be used in NextGen knowledge products, such as mobile applications or personal computer data analysis and visualization software. We describe two analytical tools - AgBiz Logic and TOA-MD - that demonstrate the current capability of farmlevel and landscape-scale models. The use of these tools is explored with a case study of an oilseed crop, Camelina sativa , which could be used to produce jet aviation fuel. We conclude with a discussion of innovations needed to facilitate the use of farm and policy-level models to generate data and analysis for improved knowledge products.

Virtual reality and pain management: current trends and future directions.

PubMed

Li, Angela; Montaño, Zorash; Chen, Vincent J; Gold, Jeffrey I

2011-03-01

Virtual reality (VR) has been used to manage pain and distress associated with a wide variety of known painful medical procedures. In clinical settings and experimental studies, participants immersed in VR experience reduced levels of pain, general distress/unpleasantness and report a desire to use VR again during painful medical procedures. Investigators hypothesize that VR acts as a nonpharmacologic form of analgesia by exerting an array of emotional affective, emotion-based cognitive and attentional processes on the body's intricate pain modulation system. While the exact neurobiological mechanisms behind VR's action remain unclear, investigations are currently underway to examine the complex interplay of cortical activity associated with immersive VR. Recently, new applications, including VR, have been developed to augment evidenced-based interventions, such as hypnosis and biofeedback, for the treatment of chronic pain. This article provides a comprehensive review of the literature, exploring clinical and experimental applications of VR for acute and chronic pain management, focusing specifically on current trends and recent developments. In addition, we propose mechanistic theories highlighting VR distraction and neurobiological explanations, and conclude with new directions in VR research, implications and clinical significance.

Characterization of advanced electric propulsion systems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ray, P. K.

1982-01-01

Characteristics of several advanced electric propulsion systems are evaluated and compared. The propulsion systems studied are mass driver, rail gun, MPD thruster, hydrogen free radical thruster and mercury electron bombardment ion engine. These are characterized by specific impulse, overall efficiency, input power, average thrust, power to average thrust ratio and average thrust to dry weight ratio. Several important physical characteristics such as dry system mass, accelerator length, bore size and current pulse requirement are also evaluated in appropriate cases. Only the ion engine can operate at a specific impulse beyond 2000 sec. Rail gun, MPD thruster and free radical thruster are currently characterized by low efficiencies. Mass drivers have the best performance characteristics in terms of overall efficiency, power to average thrust ratio and average thrust to dry weight ratio. But, they can only operate at low specific impulses due to large power requirements and are extremely long due to limitations of driving current. Mercury ion engines have the next best performance characteristics while operating at higher specific impulses. It is concluded that, overall, ion engines have somewhat better characteristics as compared to the other electric propulsion systems.

Preferential inhibition of Ih in rat trigeminal ganglion neurons by an organic blocker.

PubMed

Janigro, D; Martenson, M E; Baumann, T K

1997-11-15

The potency and specificity of a novel organic Ih current blocker DK-AH 268 (DK, Boehringer) was studied in cultured rat trigeminal ganglion neurons using whole-cell patch-clamp recording techniques. In neurons current-clamped at the resting potential, the application of 10 microM DK caused a slight hyperpolarization of the membrane potential and a small increase in the threshold for action potential discharge without any major change in the shape of the action potential. In voltage-clamped neurons, DK caused a reduction of a hyperpolarization-activated current. Current subtraction protocols revealed that the time-dependent, hyperpolarization-activated currents blocked by 10 microM DK or external Cs+ (3 mM) had virtually identical activation properties, suggesting that DK and Cs+ caused blockade of the same current, namely Ih. The block of Ih by DK was dose-dependent. At the intermediate and higher concentrations of DK (10 and 100 microM) a decrease in specificity was observed so that time-independent, inwardly rectifying and noninactivating, voltage-gated outward potassium currents were also reduced by DK but to a much lesser extent than the time-dependent, hyperpolarization-activated currents. Blockade of the time-dependent, hyperpolarization-activated currents by DK appeared to be use-dependent since it required hyperpolarization for the effect to take place. Relief of DK block was also aided by membrane hyperpolarization. Since both the time-dependent current blocked by DK and the Cs+-sensitive time-dependent current behaved as Ih, we conclude that 10 microM DK can preferentially reduce Ih without a major effect on other potassium currents. Thus, DK may be a useful agent in the investigation of the function of Ih in neurons.

Does surgical sympathectomy improve clinical outcomes in patients with refractory angina pectoris?

PubMed

Holland, Luke C; Navaratnarajah, Manoraj; Taggart, David P

2016-04-01

A best evidence topic in cardiothoracic surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was: In patients with angina pectoris refractory to medical therapy, does surgical sympathectomy improve clinical outcomes? A total of 528 papers were identified using the search protocol described, of which 6 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. There were 5 case series and 1 prospective cohort study. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. All 5 of the case series demonstrated an improvement in symptoms, exercise tolerance or quality of life in patients undergoing surgical sympathectomy. An early case series investigating an open approach had a high morbidity and mortality rate, but the 4 other series used a minimally invasive technique and had low morbidity and zero perioperative mortality rates. The cohort study compared surgical sympathectomy with transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMR) and concluded TMR to be superior. However, this study looked only at unilateral sympathectomy, whereas all 5 case series focused on bilateral surgery. We conclude that the best currently available evidence does suggest that patients report an improvement in their symptoms and quality of life following surgical sympathectomy, but the low level of this evidence does not allow for a statistically proved recommendation. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery. All rights reserved.

Experimental Study on Influence of Trap Parameters on Dielectric Characteristics of Nano-Modified Insulation Pressboard

PubMed Central

Chen, Qingguo; Liu, Heqian; Chi, Minghe; Wang, Yonghong; Wei, Xinlao

2017-01-01

In order to study the influence of trap parameters on dielectric characteristics of nano-modified pressboards, pressboards were made using the nano doping method with different nanoparticle components. The dielectric characteristics of the modified pressboards were measured, and the trap parameters were investigated using the thermally stimulated current (TSC) method. The test results indicated that the conductivity initially declined and then rose with the increase of nano-Al2O3 content, whereas it solely rose with the increase of nano-SiC content. Moreover, the conductivity exhibited nonlinear characteristics with the enhancement of electric field stress at high nanoparticle content. The relative permittivity of modified pressboard declines initially and then rises with the increase of nanoparticle content. In addition, the breakdown strength of modified pressboards exhibited a pattern of incline followed by decline with the increase of nano-Al2O3 content, while it always declined with the increase of nano-SiC content. The analysis based on the energy band theory on trap parameters of the constructed multi-core model concludes that the nanoparticle components added in pressboard altered both the depth and density of traps. It is therefore concluded that trap parameters have significant influence on the dielectric characteristics of nano-modified insulation pressboard. PMID:28772448

Tourette's syndrome in a special education population: a pilot study involving a single school district.

PubMed

Kurlan, R; Whitmore, D; Irvine, C; McDermott, M P; Como, P G

1994-04-01

To determine whether children requiring special education represent a high-risk group for identifying Tourette's syndrome (TS), we performed direct examinations for the presence of tics in 35 special education and 35 regular classroom students from a single school district. Of the special education students, nine (26%) had definite or probable tics as compared with only two (6%) of the regular classroom students. About one-third of the students with tics currently meet diagnostic criteria for TS and probably more will do so in the future. About one-half of the subjects with tics have evidence of obsessive-compulsive behavior (OCB) or an attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). For three randomly selected students with definite tics, direct examinations of first-degree relatives revealed the presence of tics in all families. Subjects to the limitations of this pilot study, we conclude that TS and related tic disorders are commonly associated with the need for special education in this single school district. TS might also be an important contributor to school problems in the childhood population at large and may be a highly prevalent condition. In addition, we conclude that childhood tics are associated with OCB and ADHD, are genetically determined, and are part of the TS clinical spectrum.

Experimental Study on Influence of Trap Parameters on Dielectric Characteristics of Nano-Modified Insulation Pressboard.

PubMed

Chen, Qingguo; Liu, Heqian; Chi, Minghe; Wang, Yonghong; Wei, Xinlao

2017-01-22

In order to study the influence of trap parameters on dielectric characteristics of nano-modified pressboards, pressboards were made using the nano doping method with different nanoparticle components. The dielectric characteristics of the modified pressboards were measured, and the trap parameters were investigated using the thermally stimulated current (TSC) method. The test results indicated that the conductivity initially declined and then rose with the increase of nano-Al₂O₃ content, whereas it solely rose with the increase of nano-SiC content. Moreover, the conductivity exhibited nonlinear characteristics with the enhancement of electric field stress at high nanoparticle content. The relative permittivity of modified pressboard declines initially and then rises with the increase of nanoparticle content. In addition, the breakdown strength of modified pressboards exhibited a pattern of incline followed by decline with the increase of nano-Al₂O₃ content, while it always declined with the increase of nano-SiC content. The analysis based on the energy band theory on trap parameters of the constructed multi-core model concludes that the nanoparticle components added in pressboard altered both the depth and density of traps. It is therefore concluded that trap parameters have significant influence on the dielectric characteristics of nano-modified insulation pressboard.

Helicopter aeroelastic stability and response - Current topics and future trends

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Friedmann, Peretz P.

1990-01-01

This paper presents several current topics in rotary wing aeroelasticity and concludes by attempting to anticipate future trends and developments. These topics are: (1) the role of geometric nonlinearities; (2) structural modeling, and aeroelastic analysis of composite rotor blades; (3) aeroelastic stability and response in forward flight; (4) modeling of coupled rotor/fuselage aeromechanical problems and their active control; and (5) the coupled rotor-fuselage vibration problem and its alleviation by higher harmonic control. Selected results illustrating the fundamental aspects of these topics are presented. Future developments are briefly discussed.

Nerve lesioning with direct current

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ravid, E. Natalie; Shi Gan, Liu; Todd, Kathryn; Prochazka, Arthur

2011-02-01

Spastic hypertonus (muscle over-activity due to exaggerated stretch reflexes) often develops in people with stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injury. Lesioning of nerves, e.g. with phenol or botulinum toxin is widely performed to reduce spastic hypertonus. We have explored the use of direct electrical current (DC) to lesion peripheral nerves. In a series of animal experiments, DC reduced muscle force by controlled amounts and the reduction could last several months. We conclude that in some cases controlled DC lesioning may provide an effective alternative to the less controllable molecular treatments available today.

[Clinical treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder in patients with serious dual diagnosis problems].

PubMed

van Rens, L W J; de Weert-van Oene, G H; van Oosteren, A A; Rutten, C

2012-01-01

Three patients with severe addiction problems, early sexual trauma, posttraumatic stress disorder PTSD comorbid psychotic vulnerability and personality problems received integrated treatment following admission to a clinic specialising in the care of patients with a dual diagnosis. Treatment was administered in accordance with current guidelines and involved either imaginal exposure or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing EMDR, integrated with relapse management of addiction problems. It is concluded that the current evidence-based guidelines regarding PTSD and addiction can also be applied successfully and effectively to an extremely vulnerable patient population.

Temporal indiscriminateness: the case of cluster bombs.

PubMed

Cavanaugh, T A

2010-03-01

This paper argues that the current stock of anti-personnel cluster bombs are temporally indiscriminate, and, therefore, unjust weapons. The paper introduces and explains the idea of temporal indiscriminateness. It argues that to honor non-combatant immunity-in addition to not targeting civilians-one must adequately target combatants. Due to their high dud rate, cluster submunitions fail to target combatants with sufficient temporal accuracy, and, thereby, result in avoidable serious harm to non-combatants. The paper concludes that non-combatant immunity and the principle of discrimination require a moratorium on the use of current cluster munitions.

Vaccine recommendations for children and youth for the 2017/2018 influenza season.

PubMed

Moore, Dorothy L

2018-02-01

The Canadian Paediatric Society continues to encourage annual influenza vaccination for ALL children and youth ≥6 months of age. Recommendations from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) for the 2017/2018 influenza season are not substantially changed from those of last season. NACI has conducted a review of all available vaccine effectiveness data concerning live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) and concludes that current evidence supports the continued use of LAIV in Canada, although use is not currently recommended in the USA because of concern about efficacy.

A Holistic Theoretical Approach to Intellectual Disability: Going Beyond the Four Current Perspectives.

PubMed

Schalock, Robert L; Luckasson, Ruth; Tassé, Marc J; Verdugo, Miguel Angel

2018-04-01

This article describes a holistic theoretical framework that can be used to explain intellectual disability (ID) and organize relevant information into a usable roadmap to guide understanding and application. Developing the framework involved analyzing the four current perspectives on ID and synthesizing this information into a holistic theoretical framework. Practices consistent with the framework are described, and examples are provided of how multiple stakeholders can apply the framework. The article concludes with a discussion of the advantages and implications of a holistic theoretical approach to ID.

Realizing situation awareness within a cyber environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tadda, George; Salerno, John J.; Boulware, Douglas; Hinman, Michael; Gorton, Samuel

2006-04-01

Situation Awareness (SA) problems all require an understanding of current activities, an ability to anticipate what may happen next, and techniques to analyze the threat or impact of current activities and predictions. These processes of SA are common regardless of the domain and can be applied to the detection of cyber attacks. This paper will describe the application of a SA framework to implementing Cyber SA, describe some metrics for measuring and evaluating systems implementing Cyber SA, and discuss ongoing work in this area. We conclude with some ideas for future activities.

A Delphic consensus assessment: imaging and biomarkers in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumor disease management.

PubMed

Oberg, Kjell; Krenning, Eric; Sundin, Anders; Bodei, Lisa; Kidd, Mark; Tesselaar, Margot; Ambrosini, Valentina; Baum, Richard P; Kulke, Matthew; Pavel, Marianne; Cwikla, Jaroslaw; Drozdov, Ignat; Falconi, Massimo; Fazio, Nicola; Frilling, Andrea; Jensen, Robert; Koopmans, Klaus; Korse, Tiny; Kwekkeboom, Dik; Maecke, Helmut; Paganelli, Giovanni; Salazar, Ramon; Severi, Stefano; Strosberg, Jonathan; Prasad, Vikas; Scarpa, Aldo; Grossman, Ashley; Walenkamp, Annemeik; Cives, Mauro; Virgolini, Irene; Kjaer, Andreas; Modlin, Irvin M

2016-09-01

The complexity of the clinical management of neuroendocrine neoplasia (NEN) is exacerbated by limitations in imaging modalities and a paucity of clinically useful biomarkers. Limitations in currently available imaging modalities reflect difficulties in measuring an intrinsically indolent disease, resolution inadequacies and inter-/intra-facility device variability and that RECIST (Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors) criteria are not optimal for NEN. Limitations of currently used biomarkers are that they are secretory biomarkers (chromogranin A, serotonin, neuron-specific enolase and pancreastatin); monoanalyte measurements; and lack sensitivity, specificity and predictive capacity. None of them meet the NIH metrics for clinical usage. A multinational, multidisciplinary Delphi consensus meeting of NEN experts (n = 33) assessed current imaging strategies and biomarkers in NEN management. Consensus (>75%) was achieved for 78% of the 142 questions. The panel concluded that morphological imaging has a diagnostic value. However, both imaging and current single-analyte biomarkers exhibit substantial limitations in measuring the disease status and predicting the therapeutic efficacy. RECIST remains suboptimal as a metric. A critical unmet need is the development of a clinico-biological tool to provide enhanced information regarding precise disease status and treatment response. The group considered that circulating RNA was better than current general NEN biomarkers and preliminary clinical data were considered promising. It was resolved that circulating multianalyte mRNA (NETest) had clinical utility in both diagnosis and monitoring disease status and therapeutic efficacy. Overall, it was concluded that a combination of tumor spatial and functional imaging with circulating transcripts (mRNA) would represent the future strategy for real-time monitoring of disease progress and therapeutic efficacy. © 2016 The authors.

Gyrokinetic neoclassical study of the bootstrap current in the tokamak edge pedestal with fully non-linear Coulomb collisions

DOE PAGES

Hager, Robert; Chang, C. S.

2016-04-08

As a follow-up on the drift-kinetic study of the non-local bootstrap current in the steep edge pedestal of tokamak plasma by Koh et al. [Phys. Plasmas 19, 072505 (2012)], a gyrokinetic neoclassical study is performed with gyrokinetic ions and drift-kinetic electrons. Besides the gyrokinetic improvement of ion physics from the drift-kinetic treatment, a fully non-linear Fokker-Planck collision operator—that conserves mass, momentum, and energy—is used instead of Koh et al.'s linearized collision operator in consideration of the possibility that the ion distribution function is non-Maxwellian in the steep pedestal. An inaccuracy in Koh et al.'s result is found in the steepmore » edge pedestal that originated from a small error in the collisional momentum conservation. The present study concludes that (1) the bootstrap current in the steep edge pedestal is generally smaller than what has been predicted from the small banana-width (local) approximation [e.g., Sauter et al., Phys. Plasmas 6, 2834 (1999) and Belli et al., Plasma Phys. Controlled Fusion 50, 095010 (2008)], (2) the plasma flow evaluated from the local approximation can significantly deviate from the non-local results, and (3) the bootstrap current in the edge pedestal, where the passing particle region is small, can be dominantly carried by the trapped particles in a broad trapped boundary layer. In conclusion, a new analytic formula based on numerous gyrokinetic simulations using various magnetic equilibria and plasma profiles with self-consistent Grad-Shafranov solutions is constructed.« less

Gyrokinetic neoclassical study of the bootstrap current in the tokamak edge pedestal with fully non-linear Coulomb collisions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hager, Robert; Chang, C. S.

As a follow-up on the drift-kinetic study of the non-local bootstrap current in the steep edge pedestal of tokamak plasma by Koh et al. [Phys. Plasmas 19, 072505 (2012)], a gyrokinetic neoclassical study is performed with gyrokinetic ions and drift-kinetic electrons. Besides the gyrokinetic improvement of ion physics from the drift-kinetic treatment, a fully non-linear Fokker-Planck collision operator—that conserves mass, momentum, and energy—is used instead of Koh et al.'s linearized collision operator in consideration of the possibility that the ion distribution function is non-Maxwellian in the steep pedestal. An inaccuracy in Koh et al.'s result is found in the steepmore » edge pedestal that originated from a small error in the collisional momentum conservation. The present study concludes that (1) the bootstrap current in the steep edge pedestal is generally smaller than what has been predicted from the small banana-width (local) approximation [e.g., Sauter et al., Phys. Plasmas 6, 2834 (1999) and Belli et al., Plasma Phys. Controlled Fusion 50, 095010 (2008)], (2) the plasma flow evaluated from the local approximation can significantly deviate from the non-local results, and (3) the bootstrap current in the edge pedestal, where the passing particle region is small, can be dominantly carried by the trapped particles in a broad trapped boundary layer. In conclusion, a new analytic formula based on numerous gyrokinetic simulations using various magnetic equilibria and plasma profiles with self-consistent Grad-Shafranov solutions is constructed.« less

Gyrokinetic neoclassical study of the bootstrap current in the tokamak edge pedestal with fully non-linear Coulomb collisions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hager, Robert, E-mail: rhager@pppl.gov; Chang, C. S., E-mail: cschang@pppl.gov

As a follow-up on the drift-kinetic study of the non-local bootstrap current in the steep edge pedestal of tokamak plasma by Koh et al. [Phys. Plasmas 19, 072505 (2012)], a gyrokinetic neoclassical study is performed with gyrokinetic ions and drift-kinetic electrons. Besides the gyrokinetic improvement of ion physics from the drift-kinetic treatment, a fully non-linear Fokker-Planck collision operator—that conserves mass, momentum, and energy—is used instead of Koh et al.'s linearized collision operator in consideration of the possibility that the ion distribution function is non-Maxwellian in the steep pedestal. An inaccuracy in Koh et al.'s result is found in the steepmore » edge pedestal that originated from a small error in the collisional momentum conservation. The present study concludes that (1) the bootstrap current in the steep edge pedestal is generally smaller than what has been predicted from the small banana-width (local) approximation [e.g., Sauter et al., Phys. Plasmas 6, 2834 (1999) and Belli et al., Plasma Phys. Controlled Fusion 50, 095010 (2008)], (2) the plasma flow evaluated from the local approximation can significantly deviate from the non-local results, and (3) the bootstrap current in the edge pedestal, where the passing particle region is small, can be dominantly carried by the trapped particles in a broad trapped boundary layer. A new analytic formula based on numerous gyrokinetic simulations using various magnetic equilibria and plasma profiles with self-consistent Grad-Shafranov solutions is constructed.« less

Withdrawal symptoms in internet gaming disorder: A systematic review.

PubMed

Kaptsis, Dean; King, Daniel L; Delfabbro, Paul H; Gradisar, Michael

2016-02-01

Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is currently positioned in the appendix of the DSM-5 as a condition requiring further study. The aim of this review was to examine the state of current knowledge of gaming withdrawal symptomatology, given the importance of withdrawal in positioning the disorder as a behavioral addiction. A total of 34 studies, including 10 qualitative studies, 17 research reports on psychometric instruments, and 7 treatment studies, were evaluated. The results indicated that the available evidence on Internet gaming withdrawal is very underdeveloped. Internet gaming withdrawal is most consistently referred to as 'irritability' and 'restlessness' following cessation of the activity. There exists a concerning paucity of qualitative studies that provide detailed clinical descriptions of symptoms arising from cessation of internet gaming. This has arguably compromised efforts to quantify withdrawal symptoms in empirical studies of gaming populations. Treatment studies have not reported on the natural course of withdrawal and/or withdrawal symptom trajectory following intervention. It is concluded that many more qualitative clinical studies are needed, and should be prioritised, to develop our understanding of gaming withdrawal. This should improve clinical descriptions of problematic internet gaming and in turn improve the quantification of IGD withdrawal and thus treatments for harmful internet gaming. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Flapping current sheet with superposed waves seen in space and on the ground

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Guoqiang; Volwerk, Martin; Nakamura, Rumi; Boakes, Peter; Zhang, Tielong; Ge, Yasong; Yoshikawa, Akimasa; Baishev, Dmitry

2015-04-01

A wavy current sheet event observed on 15th of October 2004 between 1235 and 1300 UT has been studied by using Cluster and ground-based magnetometer data. Waves propagating from the tail centre to the duskside flank with a period ~30 s and wavelength ~1 RE, are superimposed on a flapping current sheet, accompanied with a bursty bulk flow (BBF). Three Pi2 pulsations, with onset at ~1236, ~1251 and ~1255 UT, respectively, are observed at the Tixie (TIK) station located near the foot-points of Cluster. The mechanism creating the Pi2 (period ~40 s) onset at ~1236 UT is unclear. The second Pi2 (period ~90 s, onset at ~1251 UT) is associated with a strong field-aligned current, which has a strong transverse component of the magnetic field, observed by Cluster with a time delay ~60 s. We suggest that it is caused by bouncing Alfvén waves between the northern and southern ionosphere which transport the field-aligned current. For the third Pi2 (period ~60 s) there is almost no damping at the first three periods. They occur in conjunction with periodic field-aligned currents one-on-one with 72s delay. We suggest that it is generated by these periodic field-aligned currents. We conclude that the strong field-aligned currents generated in the plasma sheet during flapping with superimposed higher frequency waves can drive Pi2 pulsations on the ground, and periodic field-aligned currents can even control the period of the Pi2s.

Monoamine oxidase: Radiotracer chemistry and human studies

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fowler, Joanna S.; Logan, Jean; Shumay, Elena

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) oxidizes amines from both endogenous and exogenous sources thereby regulating the concentration of neurotransmitter amines such as serot onin, norepinephrine and dopamine as well as many xenobiotics. MAO inhibitor drugs are used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and in depression stimulating the development of radiotracer tools to probe the role of MAO in normal human biology and in disease. Over the past 30 since the first radiotracers were developed and the first PET images of MAO in humans were carried out, PET studies of brain MAO in healthy volunteers and in patients have identified different variablesmore » which have contributed to different MAO levels in brain and in peripheral organs. MAO radiotracers and PET have also been used to study the current and developing MAO inhibitor drugs including the selection of doses for clinical trials. In this article, we describe (1) the development of MAO radiotracers; (2) human studies including the relationship of brain MAO levels to genotype, personality, neurological and psychiatric disorders; (3) examples of the use of MAO radiotracers in drug research and development. We will conclude with outstanding needs to improve the radiotracers which are currently used and possible new applications.« less

Monoamine oxidase: Radiotracer chemistry and human studies

DOE PAGES

Fowler, Joanna S.; Logan, Jean; Shumay, Elena; ...

2015-03-01

Monoamine oxidase (MAO) oxidizes amines from both endogenous and exogenous sources thereby regulating the concentration of neurotransmitter amines such as serot onin, norepinephrine and dopamine as well as many xenobiotics. MAO inhibitor drugs are used in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and in depression stimulating the development of radiotracer tools to probe the role of MAO in normal human biology and in disease. Over the past 30 since the first radiotracers were developed and the first PET images of MAO in humans were carried out, PET studies of brain MAO in healthy volunteers and in patients have identified different variablesmore » which have contributed to different MAO levels in brain and in peripheral organs. MAO radiotracers and PET have also been used to study the current and developing MAO inhibitor drugs including the selection of doses for clinical trials. In this article, we describe (1) the development of MAO radiotracers; (2) human studies including the relationship of brain MAO levels to genotype, personality, neurological and psychiatric disorders; (3) examples of the use of MAO radiotracers in drug research and development. We will conclude with outstanding needs to improve the radiotracers which are currently used and possible new applications.« less

Analysis of gap junctional intercellular communications using a dielectrophoresis-based microchip.

PubMed

Tellez-Gabriel, Marta; Charrier, Céline; Brounais-Le Royer, Bénédicte; Mullard, Mathilde; Brown, Hannah K; Verrecchia, Franck; Heymann, Dominique

2017-03-01

Gap junctions are transmembrane structures that directly connect the cytoplasm of adjacent cells, making intercellular communications possible. It has been shown that the behaviour of several tumours - such as bone tumours - is related to gap junction intercellular communications (GJIC). Several methodologies are available for studying GJIC, based on measuring different parameters that are useful for multiple applications, such as the study of carcinogenesis for example. These methods nevertheless have several limitations. The present manuscript describes the setting up of a dielectrophoresis (DEP)-based lab-on-a-chip platform for the real-time study of Gap Junctional Intercellular Communication between osteosarcoma cells and the main cells accessible to their microenvironment. We conclude that using the DEParray technology for the GJIC assessment has several advantages comparing to current techniques. This methodology is less harmful for cells integrity; cells can be recovered after interaction to make further molecular analysis; it is possible to study GJIC in real time; we can promote cell interactions using up to five different populations. The setting up of this new methodology overcomes several difficulties to perform experiments for solving questions about GJIC process that we are not able to do with current technics. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

The impact of user centered design on student motivation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Locker, Craig T.

There is a current push for STEM education within the U.S.; however current studies show that students' interest to pursue STEM fields is decreasing as they progress through high school. This lose in interest has shown to have a strong tie to students' perceived levels of motivation towards the subject. The question that this studied set out to answer was if user centered design (UCD) would affect students perceived level of motivation. For this study a treatment of UCD was compared to a traditional high school engineering design curriculum, with the goal to identify if UCD would have a positive effect on the students perceived level of motivation. 59 9th grade high school students from an urban Midwestern city were selected to participate. Students were given a pre and posttest to determine their levels of motivation before and after the comparison or treatment. Analysis showed that students perceived level of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation significantly went up in the treatment group. The study concluded that due to the ease of implementation and low cost of deployment that UCD should be introduced into high school design challenges that focus on developing a solution for an external stakeholder.

Inward current activated by carbachol in rat intestinal smooth muscle cells.

PubMed Central

Ito, S; Ohta, T; Nakazato, Y

1993-01-01

1. Carbachol (0.1 mM or 10 microM)-evoked inward currents were studied with standard and perforated whole-cell patch clamp techniques in smooth muscle cells isolated from rat small intestine. The intracellular free Ca2+ concentration was monitored simultaneously with the fura-2 method. 2. With a K(+)-containing pipette solution, carbachol produced an inward current at -60 mV and a large outward current at -20 mV. 3. When NaCl was substituted for KCl in the external and pipette solutions, carbachol elicited inward currents at holding potentials more inside-negative than 0 mV. The reversal potential of the carbachol-induced current altered when external chloride (-0.9 mV) was replaced by iodide (-21.2 mV), thiocyanate (-27.0 mV) and glutamate (18.2 mV). The carbachol-induced current at -60 mV was slightly decreased by the replacement of external NaCl with Tris-Cl. 4. The carbachol-induced inward current at -60 mV was accompanied by an increase in the intracellular concentration of free Ca2+. Both responses to carbachol were observed 2 min after exposure of the cells to a Ca(2+)-free solution containing 2 mM EGTA. 5. Intracellular application of heparin inhibited the inward current and Ca2+ transient responses to carbachol but not those to caffeine (10 mM). An inward current and Ca2+ transient were elicited after the patch membrane was ruptured at -60 mV, using a patch pipette containing inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3). 6. It is concluded that the carbachol-induced inward current is due to increases in membrane Cl- and Na+ conductances. Ca2+ released from InsP3-sensitive stores may play a role in increasing both conductances. PMID:7508506

Taxing soft drinks and restricting access to vending machines to curb child obesity.

PubMed

Fletcher, Jason M; Frisvold, David; Tefft, Nathan

2010-05-01

One of the largest drivers of the current obesity epidemic is thought to be excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. Some have proposed vending machine restrictions and taxing soft drinks to curb children's consumption of soft drinks; to a large extent, these policies have not been evaluated empirically. We examine these policies using two nationally representative data sets and find no evidence that, as currently practiced, either is effective at reducing children's weight. We conclude by outlining changes that may increase their effectiveness, such as implementing comprehensive restrictions on access to soft drinks in schools and imposing higher tax rates than are currently in place in many jurisdictions.

Microiontophoretic release of drugs from micropipettes

PubMed Central

Clarke, G.; Hill, R. G.; Simmonds, M. A.

1973-01-01

1. The use of 24Na+ of high specific activity allowed its iontophoretic release from multibarrelled glass micropipettes to be followed over short periods with low currents. 2. When a negative retaining current was passed to reduce diffusional efflux between the periods of positive current expulsion of 24Na+, the rate of release of 24Na+ during the expulsion period progressively increased during the first minute before becoming constant. 3. The currents employed were similar to those normally used to regulate the microiontophoretic release of potent drugs such as γ-aminobutyric acid. It is therefore concluded that, during the usual period of response to such drugs, the rate of release of drug is not constant but increasing. 4. The implications of these observations for the construction of microiontophoretic dose-response relationships is discussed. PMID:4724187

76 FR 54293 - Review of National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Carbon Monoxide

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-08-31

...This rule is being issued at this time as required by a court order governing the schedule for completion of this review of the air quality criteria and the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for carbon monoxide (CO). Based on its review, the EPA concludes the current primary standards are requisite to protect public health with an adequate margin of safety, and is retaining those standards. After review of the air quality criteria, EPA further concludes that no secondary standard should be set for CO at this time. EPA is also making changes to the ambient air monitoring requirements for CO, including those related to network design, and is updating, without substantive change, aspects of the Federal reference method.

Current halo structures in high-current plasma experiments: θ-pinch

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matveev, Yu. V.

2007-03-01

Experimental data elucidating mechanisms for halo formation in θ-pinch discharges are presented and discussed. The experiments were performed with different gases (H2, D2, He, and Ar) in a theta-pinch device with a porcelain vacuum chamber and an excitation coil 15 cm in diameter and 30 cm in length. The stored energy, the current in the excitation coil, and the current half-period were W = 10 kJ, I = 400 kA, and T/2 = 14 μs, respectively. It is found that the plasma rings (halos) surrounding the pinch core arise as a result of coaxial pinch stratification due to both the excitation of closed currents (inductons) inside the pinch and the radial convergence of the plasma current sheaths produced after the explosion of T-layers formed near the wall in the initial stage of the discharge. It is concluded that halo structures observed in pinches, tokamaks, and other high-current devices used in controlled fusion research have the same nature.

Adrenomedullin increases the short-circuit current in the rat prostate: Receptors, chloride channels, the effects of cAMP and calcium ions and implications on fluid secretion.

PubMed

Liao, S B; Cheung, K H; Cheung, M P L; Wong, P F; O, W S; Tang, F

2014-05-01

In this study, we have investigated the effects of adrenomedullin on chloride and fluid secretion in the rat prostate. The presence of adrenomedullin (ADM) in rat prostate was confirmed using immunostaining, and the molecular species was determined using gel filtration chromatography coupled with an enzyme-linked assay for ADM. The effects of ADM on fluid secretion were studied by short-circuit current technique in a whole mount preparation of the prostate in an Ussing chamber. The results indicated that the ADM level was higher in the ventral than the dorso-lateral prostate and the major molecular species was the active peptide. ADM increased the short-circuit current through both the cAMP- and calcium-activated chloride channels in the ventral lobe, but only through the calcium-activated channels in the dorso-lateral lobe. These stimulatory effects were blocked by the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist, hCGRP8-37. We conclude that ADM may regulate prostatic fluid secretion through the chloride channels, which may affect the composition of the seminal plasma bathing the spermatozoa and hence fertility. © 2014 American Society of Andrology and European Academy of Andrology.

Malignant pleural mesothelioma in US automotive mechanics: reported vs expected number of cases from 1975 to 2007.

PubMed

Finley, Brent L; Pierce, Jennifer S; Paustenbach, Dennis J; Scott, Laura L F; Lievense, Laura; Scott, Paul K; Galbraith, David A

2012-10-01

Until the 1980s, chrysotile asbestos was a component of automotive brakes manufactured in the US. The current OSHA Bulletin (2006) for brake repair cites a single study (Lemen, 2004) which concluded that the number of mesothelioma cases reported in the literature in "end-product users of friction materials" indicated an asbestos-related risk for auto mechanics. However, Lemen (2004) did not compare the reported number of cases to an "expected" value, even though pleural mesothelioma occurs in the general population in the absence of asbestos exposure. We compare the number of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) cases reported in the US literature among auto mechanics between 1975-2007 to an expected value derived from estimated numbers of current and former auto mechanics. A total of 106 cases categorized as mesothelioma or malignant neoplasm of the pleura were found in the literature. Using background incidence rates for MPM of two and three cases per million individuals per year, we estimated that a range of 278-515 cases of non-asbestos-related MPM, respectively, would have occurred in current or former auto mechanics from 1975-2007. Our findings are consistent with the numerous epidemiology studies that have found no increased risk of MPM in auto mechanics. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Effect of contacts configuration and location on selective stimulation of cuff electrode.

PubMed

Taghipour-Farshi, Hamed; Frounchi, Javad; Ahmadiasl, Nasser; Shahabi, Parviz; Salekzamani, Yaghoub

2015-01-01

Cuff electrodes have been widely used chronically in different clinical applications. Advancements have been made in selective stimulation by using multi-contact cuff electrodes. Steering anodic current is a strategy to increase selectivity by reshaping and localizing electric fields. There are two configurations for contacts to be implemented in cuff, monopolar and tripolar. A cuff electrode with tripolar configuration can restrict the activation to a more localized region within a nerve trunk compared to a cuff with monopolar configuration and improve the selectivity. Anode contacts in tripolar configuration can be made in two structures, "ring" and "dot". In this study, the stimulation capabilities of these two structures were evaluated. The recruitment properties and the selectivity of stimulation were examined by measuring the electric potential produced by stimulation currents. The results of the present study indicated that using dot configuration, the current needed to stimulate fascicles in tripolar topologies would be reduced by 10%. It was also shown that stimulation threshold was increased by moving anode contacts inward the cuff. On the other hand, stimulation threshold was decreased by moving the anode contacts outward the cuff which would decrease selectivity, too. We conclude that dot configuration is a better choice for stimulation. Also, a cuff inward placement of 10% relative to the cuff length was near optimal.

Patient perception and knowledge of acetaminophen in a large family medicine service.

PubMed

Herndon, Christopher M; Dankenbring, Dawn M

2014-06-01

The use of acetaminophen is currently under increased scrutiny by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to the risk of intentional and more concerning, unintentional overdose-related hepatotoxicity. Acetaminophen is responsible for an estimated 48% of all acute liver failure diagnoses. The purpose of this study is to evaluate patient perception and knowledge of the safe use and potential toxicity of acetaminophen-containing products. The authors conducted a descriptive, 2-week study using a convenience sample from a large family medicine clinic waiting room. Survey questions assessed ability to identify acetaminophen, knowledge of the current recommended maximum daily dose, respondent acetaminophen use patterns, common adverse effects associated with acetaminophen, and respondent self-reported alcohol consumption. Acetaminophen safety information was provided to all persons regardless of participation in the study. Of the 102 patients who chose to participate, 79% recognized acetaminophen as a synonym of Tylenol, whereas only 9% identified APAP as a frequently used abbreviation. One third of respondents thought acetaminophen was synonymous with ibuprofen and naproxen. Approximately one fourth of patients correctly identified the then maximum recommended daily acetaminophen dose of 4 g. Seventy-eight percent of patients correctly identified hepatotoxicity as the most common serious adverse effect. We conclude that patient deficiencies in knowledge of acetaminophen recognition, dosing, and toxicity warrant public education by health professionals at all levels of interaction. Current initiatives are promising; however, further efforts are required.

Value and Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in the Cognitive Rehabilitation: A Critical Review Since 2000

PubMed Central

Cappon, Davide; Jahanshahi, Marjan; Bisiacchi, Patrizia

2016-01-01

Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, including transcranial direct current stimulation (t-DCS) have been used in the rehabilitation of cognitive function in a spectrum of neurological disorders. The present review outlines methodological communalities and differences of t-DCS procedures in neurocognitive rehabilitation. We consider the efficacy of tDCS for the management of specific cognitive deficits in four main neurological disorders by providing a critical analysis of recent studies that have used t-DCS to improve cognition in patients with Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, Hemi-spatial Neglect, and Aphasia. The evidence from this innovative approach to cognitive rehabilitation suggests that tDCS can influence cognition. However, the results show a high variability between studies both in terms of the methodological approach adopted and the cognitive functions targeted. The review also focuses both on methodological issues such as technical aspects of the stimulation (electrode position and dimension; current intensity; duration of protocol) and on the inclusion of appropriate assessment tools for cognition. A further aspect considered is the optimal timing for administration of tDCS: before, during or after cognitive rehabilitation. We conclude that more studies using common methodology are needed to gain a better understanding of the efficacy of tDCS as a new tool for rehabilitation of cognitive disorders in a range of neurological disorders. PMID:27147949

Value and Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation in the Cognitive Rehabilitation: A Critical Review Since 2000.

PubMed

Cappon, Davide; Jahanshahi, Marjan; Bisiacchi, Patrizia

2016-01-01

Non-invasive brain stimulation techniques, including transcranial direct current stimulation (t-DCS) have been used in the rehabilitation of cognitive function in a spectrum of neurological disorders. The present review outlines methodological communalities and differences of t-DCS procedures in neurocognitive rehabilitation. We consider the efficacy of tDCS for the management of specific cognitive deficits in four main neurological disorders by providing a critical analysis of recent studies that have used t-DCS to improve cognition in patients with Parkinson's Disease, Alzheimer's Disease, Hemi-spatial Neglect, and Aphasia. The evidence from this innovative approach to cognitive rehabilitation suggests that tDCS can influence cognition. However, the results show a high variability between studies both in terms of the methodological approach adopted and the cognitive functions targeted. The review also focuses both on methodological issues such as technical aspects of the stimulation (electrode position and dimension; current intensity; duration of protocol) and on the inclusion of appropriate assessment tools for cognition. A further aspect considered is the optimal timing for administration of tDCS: before, during or after cognitive rehabilitation. We conclude that more studies using common methodology are needed to gain a better understanding of the efficacy of tDCS as a new tool for rehabilitation of cognitive disorders in a range of neurological disorders.

Properties of the calcium-activated chloride current in heart.

PubMed

Zygmunt, A C; Gibbons, W R

1992-03-01

We used the whole cell patch clamp technique to study transient outward currents of single rabbit atrial cells. A large transient current, IA, was blocked by 4-aminopyridine (4AP) and/or by depolarized holding potentials. After block of IA, a smaller transient current remained. It was completely blocked by nisoldipine, cadmium, ryanodine, or caffeine, which indicates that all of the 4AP-resistant current is activated by the calcium transient that causes contraction. Neither calcium-activated potassium current nor calcium-activated nonspecific cation current appeared to contribute to the 4AP-resistant transient current. The transient current disappeared when ECl was made equal to the pulse potential; it was present in potassium-free internal and external solutions. It was blocked by the anion transport blockers SITS and DIDS, and the reversal potential of instantaneous current-voltage relations varied with extracellular chloride as predicted for a chloride-selective conductance. We concluded that the 4AP-resistant transient outward current of atrial cells is produced by a calcium-activated chloride current like the current ICl(Ca) of ventricular cells (1991. Circulation Research. 68:424-437). ICl(Ca) in atrial cells demonstrated outward rectification, even when intracellular chloride concentration was higher than extracellular. When ICa was inactivated or allowed to recover from inactivation, amplitudes of ICl(Ca) and ICa were closely correlated. The results were consistent with the view that ICl(Ca) does not undergo independent inactivation. Tentatively, we propose that ICl(Ca) is transient because it is activated by an intracellular calcium transient. Lowering extracellular sodium increased the peak outward transient current. The current was insensitive to the choice of sodium substitute. Because a recently identified time-independent, adrenergically activated chloride current in heart is reduced in low sodium, these data suggest that the two chloride currents are produced by different populations of channels.

Looking back in time: self-concept change affects visual perspective in autobiographical memory.

PubMed

Libby, Lisa K; Eibach, Richard P

2002-02-01

People who change often report that their old selves seem like "different people." Correlational (Study 1) and experimental (Studies 2 and 3) studies showed that participants tended to use a 3rd-person observer perspective when visualizing memories of actions that conflicted with their current self-concept. A similar pattern emerged when participants imagined performing actions that varied in self-concept compatibility (Study 4). The authors conclude that on-line judgments of an action's self-concept compatibility affect the perspective used for image construction. Study 5 shows applied implications. Use of the 3rd-person perspective when recalling past episodes of overindulgent eating was related to optimism about behaving differently at an upcoming Thanksgiving dinner. The authors discuss the effect of self-concept compatibility on cognitive and emotional reactions to past actions and consider the role of causal attributions in defining the self across time.

Consequences of residential development for biodiversity and human well-being

Treesearch

Liba Pejchar; Sarah E. Reed; Patrick Bixler; Lindsay Ex; Miranda H. Mockrin

2015-01-01

Residential development is a leading driver of land-use change, with important implications for biodiversity, ecosystem processes, and human well-being. We reviewed over 500 published scientific articles on the biophysical, economic, and social effects of residential development and open space in the US. We concluded that current knowledge of the effects of this type...

Report on the Partnership for Excellence in Teacher Education: An NSF Funded Project (NSF DUE-9343612).

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blake, Sally; Tchoshanov, Mourat; Della-Piana, Connie Kubo; Pacheco, Arturo; Brady, Tom

2001-01-01

Reports on the Partnership for Excellence in Teacher Education (PETE), an NSF-funded project to promote reform in mathematics and science teacher preparation that features the redesign of teacher preparation to reflect current research on learning and teaching. Concludes that new tools of technology have the potential for enhancing education but…

The Assessment of Young Children through the Lens of Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dalton, Elizabeth M.; Brand, Susan Trostle

2012-01-01

Early Childhood Education (EDE) describes the education of young children from birth through age 8. EDE reports have concluded that traditional approaches to curriculum, such as those emphasizing drill and practice of isolated, academic skills, are not in line with current knowledge of human learning and neuropsychology. These approaches fail to…

Family Child Care Homes Need Health and Safety Training and an Emergency Rescue System.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Shallcross, Mary Ann

1999-01-01

Argues that current training in child safety, health, and emergency response are not adequate for family childcare providers. Concludes that preventing sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), preventing injury, providing safe outdoor play areas, controlling the spread of illness, and being prepared for emergencies must be of major concern and ongoing…

Moving toward Multiliteracies in Foreign Language Teaching: Past and Present Perspectives … and Beyond

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Warner, Chantelle; Dupuy, Beatrice

2018-01-01

In recent years, literacy has emerged as a key critical term in foreign language (FL) teaching and learning. This essay reflects on the history of literacy and on current developments, in particular those related to the development of multiliteracies paradigms. The article concludes with a discussion of emergent topics related to literacy and…

Distributing Frequency And Time Signals On Optical Fibers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lutes, George F.

1993-01-01

Paper reports progress in distribution of frequency and time reference signals over optical fibers. Describes current performance at frequencies of 100 MHz, 1 GHz, and 8.4 GHz. Also describes transmitting and receiving equipment and discusses tradeoff between cost and performance. Concludes with discussion of likely future development and effects of developments on systems using distributed frequency reference signals.

Hate Speech or Free Speech: Can Broad Campus Speech Regulations Survive Current Judicial Reasoning?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Heiser, Gregory M.; Rossow, Lawrence F.

1993-01-01

Federal courts have found speech regulations overbroad in suits against the University of Michigan and the University of Wisconsin System. Attempts to assess the theoretical justification and probable fate of broad speech regulations that have not been explicitly rejected by the courts. Concludes that strong arguments for broader regulation will…

Discussion. Think SMART, Not Hard--A Review of Teaching Decision Making in Sport from an Ecological Rationality Perspective

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Raab, Markus

2007-01-01

Background: Recent developments of theories for teaching decision making in sport offer a large variety of applications for the context of physical education. Purpose: This review of current models of teaching tactical skills concludes that most models incorporate different cognitive learning mechanisms, such as implicit and explicit learning, and…

Increasing Women's Influence in Government and Politics: The Inclusion of Women of Color.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Berry, Mary Frances

1986-01-01

Reviews the history, current status, and accomplishments of women in United States politics. Identifies opposing perspectives on such political issues as child care, abortion, and the Equal Rights Amendment, stressing the role of minority women. Concludes with strategies women of color may use to overcome the triple bind of race, sex, and economic…

DOD Future Energy Resources. Proceedings of Workshops Held at the National Defense University

DTIC Science & Technology

2003-05-01

successful project at the Mallik well in Canada and the current status of the U.S. market for natural gas. There was the so-called “gas bubble” during...partnership has been directed to drilling and tests at the Mallik well in the Mackenzie Delta of Canada. 45 Tomer concluded with high

Spinoff, 1987

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Haggerty, James J.

1987-01-01

Various current or forthcoming NASA projects and experiments with potential for technology spinoff are described. NASA technological advances with existing commercial applications are outlined in the following areas: transportation; consumer; home; and recreation; medicine; resources management; energy; public safety; and manufacturing technology and industrial productivity. Specific systems, devices, and equipment are described. A concluding essay describes the NASA technology utilization/transfer effort.

What Is New in Evaluation of Asymptomatic Microscopic Hematuria in Women?: Best Articles From the Past Year.

PubMed

Kenton, Kimberly

2017-09-01

This month we focus on current research in asymptomatic microscopic hematuria. Dr. Kenton discusses four recent publications, which are concluded with a "bottom line" that is a take-home message. A complete reference for each can be found on on this page along with direct links to abstracts.

Photovoltaics: Current status and future projections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dorn, D. W.

1981-10-01

The generation of electricity by photovoltaic means was examined. Projections of near future developments are made, together with estimates of their impact on the cost and availability of photovoltaic systems for various markets. This concluded that photovoltaic systems should be able to deliver electricity at a cost of between 5 to 10 cents per kilowatt hour by 1986.

Multi-species genetic connectivity in a terrestrial habitat network.

PubMed

Marrotte, Robby R; Bowman, Jeff; Brown, Michael G C; Cordes, Chad; Morris, Kimberley Y; Prentice, Melanie B; Wilson, Paul J

2017-01-01

Habitat fragmentation reduces genetic connectivity for multiple species, yet conservation efforts tend to rely heavily on single-species connectivity estimates to inform land-use planning. Such conservation activities may benefit from multi-species connectivity estimates, which provide a simple and practical means to mitigate the effects of habitat fragmentation for a larger number of species. To test the validity of a multi-species connectivity model, we used neutral microsatellite genetic datasets of Canada lynx ( Lynx canadensis ), American marten ( Martes americana ), fisher ( Pekania pennanti ), and southern flying squirrel ( Glaucomys volans ) to evaluate multi-species genetic connectivity across Ontario, Canada. We used linear models to compare node-based estimates of genetic connectivity for each species to point-based estimates of landscape connectivity (current density) derived from circuit theory. To our knowledge, we are the first to evaluate current density as a measure of genetic connectivity. Our results depended on landscape context: habitat amount was more important than current density in explaining multi-species genetic connectivity in the northern part of our study area, where habitat was abundant and fragmentation was low. In the south however, where fragmentation was prevalent, genetic connectivity was correlated with current density. Contrary to our expectations however, locations with a high probability of movement as reflected by high current density were negatively associated with gene flow. Subsequent analyses of circuit theory outputs showed that high current density was also associated with high effective resistance, underscoring that the presence of pinch points is not necessarily indicative of gene flow. Overall, our study appears to provide support for the hypothesis that landscape pattern is important when habitat amount is low. We also conclude that while current density is proportional to the probability of movement per unit area, this does not imply increased gene flow, since high current density tends to be a result of neighbouring pixels with high cost of movement (e.g., low habitat amount). In other words, pinch points with high current density appear to constrict gene flow.

Exposure therapy changes dysfunctional evaluations of somatic symptoms in patients with hypochondriasis (health anxiety). A randomized controlled trial.

PubMed

Weck, Florian; Neng, Julia M B; Schwind, Julia; Höfling, Volkmar

2015-08-01

Dysfunctional evaluations of somatic symptoms are considered a central factor in maintaining hypochondriasis. The aim of the current study was to investigate whether exposure therapy (ET) without cognitive restructuring is sufficient to change dysfunctional evaluations of somatic symptoms. The current study was based on a randomized controlled trial and compared patients with hypochondriasis (N=73) receiving ET or cognitive therapy (CT) to a wait list (WL) control group. In both the ET and CT groups, dysfunctional symptom evaluations changed significantly compared with the WL group. No differences between the ET and CT groups emerged. The relationship between the treatment condition (active treatment vs. WL) and reductions in health anxiety was mediated by changes in somatic symptom evaluations only in a specific card sorting procedure. We conclude that addressing dysfunctional symptom evaluations is a necessary precondition for the effective treatment of hypochondriasis. However, the results indicate that ET and CT appear to change those processes to a similar degree. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Social phobia and avoidant personality disorder: are they separate diagnostic entities or do they reflect a spectrum of social anxiety?

PubMed

Tillfors, Maria; Ekselius, Lisa

2009-01-01

The Axis I disorder social phobia and the Axis II disorder avoidant personality disorder were first introduced in the DSM nomenclature in 1980. Since then a major nosological theme in research has concerned whether or not social phobia and avoidant personality disorder represent distinct clinical categories. Our main aim was to summarize both the current situation regarding this conceptual debate, as well as what we still do not know. In the present review we describe the evolution of these disorders as they have been addressed over time, from their introduction in the DSM-III system to their current descriptions in the DSM-IV. Thereafter, earlier empirical literature concerning this conceptual debate is evaluated, with the main focus on comorbidity between social phobia and avoidant personality disorder. The PsycINFO and PubMed electronic databases were searched for studies, and complementary searches of references in articles and books were conducted. To conclude, the studies summarized provide support for the view that social phobia and avoidant personality disorder are more than arbitrary cutoffs along a continuum of social anxiety.

Current randomized control trials, observational studies and meta analysis in off-pump coronary surgery.

PubMed

Parissis, Haralabos; Lau, Man Chi; Parissis, Mondrian; Lampridis, Savvas; Graham, Victoria; Al-Saudi, Reza; Mhandu, Peter

2015-12-17

The off-pump literature is divided into three eras: the "early phase" with results favouring off-pump surgery supported with randomized control trials (RCTs) mainly from Bristol, UK; an "intermediate phase" dominated by the results of the ROOBY trial and finally a more "contemporary phase" whereby the off/on-pump argument is unsettled. Although the literature has failed to project an overall superiority of off-pump versus on-pump surgery, nevertheless, small randomized control trials and large meta-analysis studies are concluding that the incidence of a stroke is less than 1 % when an aortic off-pump techniques (especially the non-touch technique) are advocated in patients with diseased ascending aorta. Furthermore, off-pump combined with hybrid procedures may lead to a reduction of adverse outcome in the aged high-risk population with concomitant poor left ventricular function and co-morbidities.The current review attempts to bring an insight onto the last ten years knowledge on the on/off-pump debate, with an aim to draw some clear conclusions in order to allow practitioners to reflect on the subject.

Children’s spontaneous emotional expressions while receiving (un)wanted prizes in the presence of peers

PubMed Central

Visser, Mandy; Krahmer, Emiel; Swerts, Marc

2015-01-01

Although current emotion theories emphasize the importance of contextual factors for emotional expressive behavior, developmental studies that examine such factors are currently thin on the ground. In this research, we studied the course of emotional expressions of 8- and 11-year-old children after winning a (large) first prize or a (substantially smaller) consolation prize, while playing a game competing against the computer or a physically co-present peer. We analyzed their emotional reactions by conducting two perception tests in which participants rated children’s level of happiness. Results showed that co-presence positively affected children’s happiness only when receiving the first prize. Moreover, for children who were in the presence of a peer, we found that eye contact affected children’s expressions of happiness, but that the effect was different for different age groups: 8-year-old children were negatively affected, and 11-year-old children positively. Overall, we can conclude that as children grow older and their social awareness increases, the presence of a peer affects their non-verbal expressions, regardless of their appreciation of their prize. PMID:26441776

Analysis of a novel autonomous marine hybrid power generation/energy storage system with a high-voltage direct current link

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Li; Lee, Dong-Jing; Lee, Wei-Jen; Chen, Zhe

This paper presents both time-domain and frequency-domain simulated results of a novel marine hybrid renewable-energy power generation/energy storage system (PG/ESS) feeding isolated loads through an high-voltage direct current (HVDC) link. The studied marine PG subsystems comprise both offshore wind turbines and Wells turbines to respectively capture wind energy and wave energy from marine wind and ocean wave. In addition to wind-turbine generators (WTGs) and wave-energy turbine generators (WETGs) employed in the studied system, diesel-engine generators (DEGs) and an aqua electrolyzer (AE) absorbing a part of generated energy from WTGs and WETGs to generate available hydrogen for fuel cells (FCs) are also included in the PG subsystems. The ES subsystems consist of a flywheel energy storage system (FESS) and a compressed air energy storage (CAES) system to balance the required energy in the hybrid PG/ESS. It can be concluded from the simulation results that the proposed hybrid marine PG/ESS feeding isolated loads can stably operate to achieve system power-frequency balance condition.

Motivations of medical students towards psychiatry: a perspective from Turkey.

PubMed

Sakarya, Direnc; Camsari, Ulas Mehmet; Coskun, Bulent

2013-08-01

Recruitment in psychiatry has been an ongoing challenge worldwide; Turkey is no exception. In this article we have reviewed the issue from multiple aspects. Negative opinions on psychiatry among medical students have been associated with various matters, such as problems with scientific soundness, stigma, prestige and financial incentives. It has been reported that these negative opinions could be reversed by clinical exposure, improved knowledge base and increased affiliation with the field. Unfortunately, reversed attitudes do not have permanency. Considering that there has not been any study focusing on recruitment problems in Turkey, we attempted to provide a perspective by reporting the results of our study conducted with Turkish medical students. Attractive qualities of psychiatry were of particular interest. We found that brain research, neuroscience, philosophy, psychotherapy and academics are main areas of interest in psychiatry. We attempt to discuss our findings in view of current literature while noting current setbacks of psychiatry residency training in Turkey. We conclude that there exists a great need for working strategies in order to improve recruitment in psychiatry, addressing the stigma and correcting false beliefs such as treatment inefficacy or compromised scientific solidity.

Advantage of spatial map ion imaging in the study of large molecule photodissociation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Chin; Lin, Yen-Cheng; Lee, Shih-Huang; Lee, Yin-Yu; Tseng, Chien-Ming; Lee, Yuan-Tseh; Ni, Chi-Kung

2017-07-01

The original ion imaging technique has low velocity resolution, and currently, photodissociation is mostly investigated using velocity map ion imaging. However, separating signals from the background (resulting from undissociated excited parent molecules) is difficult when velocity map ion imaging is used for the photodissociation of large molecules (number of atoms ≥ 10). In this study, we used the photodissociation of phenol at the S1 band origin as an example to demonstrate how our multimass ion imaging technique, based on modified spatial map ion imaging, can overcome this difficulty. The photofragment translational energy distribution obtained when multimass ion imaging was used differed considerably from that obtained when velocity map ion imaging and Rydberg atom tagging were used. We used conventional translational spectroscopy as a second method to further confirm the experimental results, and we conclude that data should be interpreted carefully when velocity map ion imaging or Rydberg atom tagging is used in the photodissociation of large molecules. Finally, we propose a modified velocity map ion imaging technique without the disadvantages of the current velocity map ion imaging technique.

Ongoing search for diagnostic biomarkers in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus.

PubMed

Tarnaris, Andrew; Toma, Ahmed K; Kitchen, Neil D; Watkins, Laurence D

2009-12-01

Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus is a syndrome, which typically has a clinical presentation of gait/balance disturbance, often accompanied by cognitive decline and/or urinary incontinence. Its diagnosis is based on relevant history and clinical examination, appropriate imaging findings and physiological testing. The clinical picture of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus may occasionally be difficult to distinguish from that of Alzheimer's dementia, subcortical ischemic vascular dementia and Parkinson's disease. The aim of this article is to systematically review the literature from the last 29 years in order to identify cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or imaging biomarkers that may aid in the diagnosis of the syndrome. The authors concluded that no CSF or imaging biomarker is currently fulfilling the criteria required to aid in the diagnosis of the condition. However, a few studies have revealed promising CSF and imaging markers that need to be verified by independent groups. The reasons that the progress in this field has been slow so far is also commented on, as well as steps required to apply the current evidence in the design of future studies within the field.