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Objective: The objective of this empirical research is to compare nurses’ operational workflow and nurses’ and patients’ satisfactions of two different infusion center designs. One center has a traditional open bay design and the other has semi-private bays. This study also intends to gather baseline data to compare to a future post-occupancy evaluation of a new infusion center where the two existing centers will be combined. Background: The increasing number of patients with cancer diagnosis who refer to infusion centers highlights the importance of design of these centers. Method: The mixed-method approach of this study involves shadowing nurses and surveying nurses and patients. Data collection captured nurses’ activities, activity durations, and nurses’ and patients’ satisfaction with the design of clinics. Results: Comparison of shadowing data indicated that although the infusion centers have different layouts, there are no significant differences in the activities or time spent by nurses in different areas among the centers. Staff, however, have different satisfaction levels with visual and speech privacy, ability to concentrate without distraction, collaboration with other staff, and the process of medication delivery. Patients also had slightly different satisfaction levels with their ability to communicate with staff and design of bays. Conclusion: This research sheds light on operational workflows and satisfaction of staff and patients in two different infusion center design. Considering the limited studies on these settings, this study serves as baseline data to compare to other studies on cancer infusion centers and addresses issues of benchmarking and staff and patient satisfaction.

Research within the United Kingdom has shown that it is common for school students to combine full-time education with part-time employment. Attention has tended to focus on the negative impact thi...

Minimum wages legislation in the United Kingdom applies to those aged 16 years or older. Evidence is presented that children believe that their wage levels should be ‘fair’. On one hand, such views have emerged from focus groups of working children. On the other, various pressure groups representing young people are seeking to establish fair payment to child workers. It is argued that the government, trade unions and other bodies have failed to adequately address the protection of young workers.

Most young people in the United Kingdom undertake some kind of part-time employment before they reach the minimum school-leaving age. The United Kingdom claims to protect this group of workers and meet its obligations under Article 32 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child by legislation. Research clearly shows that the system is ineffective and fails to adequately protect young workers. Empirical investigations indicate that there is reason for concern about this situation. This article considers the risks to young workers with respect to education, health and safety and financial exploitation. Faced with such evidence successive governments have shown themselves unwilling to take effective action in this area. We consider potential explanations for such inaction.

Background and Purpose Abuse of toluene-containing inhalants is an increasing public health problem, especially among adolescents. Abuse during adolescence is associated with emaciation, while industrial exposure leads to altered glycaemic control suggesting metabolic instability. However, the relationship between adolescent inhalant abuse and metabolic dysfunction remains unknown. Experimental Approach To model human abuse patterns, we exposed male adolescent Wistar rats [postnatal day (PND) 27] to chronic intermittent inhaled toluene (CIT, 10 000 ppm) or air (control) for 1 h·day−1, three times a week for 4 weeks. Feeding and body composition were monitored. After 4 weeks, circulating metabolic hormone concentrations and responses to a glucose tolerance test (GTT) were measured. Dietary preference was measured by giving animals access to either a ‘western diet’ plus standard chow (WC + SC) or standard chow alone during 4 weeks of abstinence. Metabolic hormones and GTT were subsequently measured. Key Results Adolescent CIT exposure significantly retarded weight gain, altered body composition, circulating metabolic hormones and responses to a GTT. While reduced body weight persisted, responses to a GTT and circulating hormones appeared to normalize for animals on standard chow following abstinence. In CIT-exposed WC + SC rats, we observed impaired glucose tolerance associated with altered metabolic hormones. Analysis of hypothalamic genes revealed differential expression profiles in CIT-exposed rats following both the exposure period and abstinence, suggesting a central contribution to inhalant-induced metabolic dysfunction. Conclusion and Implications CIT exposure during adolescence has long-term effects on metabolic function, which may increase the risk of disorders related to energy balance and glycaemic control.

Solid-oxide fuel cell components were fabricated using an atmospheric plasma spraying method. Lanthanum strontium manganite (LSM), 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia (8YSZ), ceria (CeO2), and YSZ-NiO powders were used as feedstock materials for layered deposition of cathode, electrolyte, and anode, respectively, to make a complete cell. In this work, two types of electrolyte materials were investigated, viz., 8YSZ and the one containing 10 wt.% CeO2. Because a high densification is expected in the solid oxide electrolyte (as opposed to observed porosity of ~27%), current work focuses only on the nanomechanical evaluation of the same. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images show the retention of nanocrystallinity in the plasma-sprayed deposits. Elemental analyses via energy-dispersive spectroscopy revealed chemically distinct identities of the cell components ruling out diffusion or reaction at the boundaries. Porosity values vary between 29.0% and 35.4% in anode and 42.9–48.4% in cathode, indicating appreciable achievement for high performance of electrode materials. The addition of 10 wt.% ceria to 8YSZ has shown enhancement in the elastic modulus and hardness of the electrolyte material by 18.4 GPa and 1.6 GPa, respectively. Theoretical estimation of thermal conductivity of the plasma-sprayed materials has been found to be in the order of 2.27–4.45 W/mK.

Amorphous solid dispersions of clotrimazole in the polymer Kollidon VA64 were prepared as films in concentrations from 0% to 100% in 10% by weight increments. Nanoindentation was performed on each film at 18% and 49% relative humidity to assess the effect of drug loading and humidity on the mechanical properties of the solid dispersions. Although the addition of clotrimazole to the polymer reduces the glass transition temperature of the system as measured by differential scanning calorimetry, the hardness, reduced elastic modulus, and storage modulus were found to increase to values greater than those of either pure component up to drug loadings of approximately 60% by weight. Further addition of clotrimazole to the system resulted in decreased hardness and moduli with increased drug load. Dynamic vapor sorption of the dispersions shows that the hygroscopicity of the system is reduced as clotrimazole is added to the polymer.

Doping of ceria into yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) has been reported to have improved the properties in terms of thermal insulation capability, ionic conductivity, and mechanical- and phase-stability of YSZ for applications as potential electrolyte materials workable at intermediate temperature range (500–700°C). In order to select an appropriate amount of ceria to be added, it is important to understand the effects of the added dopants on phase and microstructure, lattice parameters, and mechanical properties. This paper presents synthesis and characterization (of phase, microstructural, and mechanical properties at micron and nanoscale level) of 8 mol. % Y2O3-ZrO2 (8YSZ) containing 0, 5, and 10 wt. % CeO2 via spark plasma sintering. Microstructural analysis has elicited increased grain growth with increasing CeO2 content in 8YSZ. Phase analysis has indicated formation of solid solution with dilation of 8 YSZ lattice upon CeO2 addition. In contrast, isolated ceria rich zones have been identified through energy dispersive spectroscopy (attachment in transmission electron microscope) affirming the formation of CeO2-8YSZ composite. Microhardness (H), and fracture toughness (KIC) of CeO2-8YSZ electrolytes were observed to degrade by 31·2% and 24.0%, respectively, for 10 wt.% CeO2-8YSZ samples in comparison to that of 8YSZ alone. Whereas, the hardness and reduced modulus of CeO2-8YSZ samples, evaluated using nanoindentation did not reveal any significant difference in the mechanical properties of the developed composites. Difference in the mechanical properties using Vickers indentation is attributed to the presence of porosity, which is negated in the mechanical property evaluation via nanoindentation.

Most biological materials are hierarchically structured composites that often possess exceptional mechanical properties. We show that nanoindentation can be a powerful tool for understanding the structure‑mechanical property relationship of biological materials and illustrate this for fish teeth and scales, not heretofore investigated at the nanoscale. Piranha and shark teeth consist of enameloid and dentin. Nanoindentation measurements show that the reduced modulus and hardness of enameloid are 4‑5 times higher than those of dentin. Arapaima scales are multilayered composites that consist of mineralized collagen fibers. The external layer is more highly mineralized, resulting in a higher modulus and hardness compared with the internal layer. Alligator gar scales are composed of a highly mineralized external ganoin layer and an internal bony layer. Similar design strategies, gradient structures, and a hard external layer backed by a more compliant inner layer are exhibited by fish teeth and scales and seem to fulfill their functional purposes.

Micro and nanostructural properties are believed to play a critical role in the osteoinductive capacity of bioceramic bone scaffolds. Physical characteristics also play an important role for optimum biological performance, including osteoconductivity and strength. In this study microstructural and nano-mechanical properties of a bioceramic bone scaffold were investigated as a function of the sintering temperature in the range of 950–1150 °C, through the use of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and nanoindentation testing. Although the samples presented the same crystallographic phase, an increase in sintering temperature resulted in increased grain size, density and crystallite size. The intrinsic mechanical properties were measured by nanoindentation testing and analyzed with the Oliver–Pharr method. The nanoindentation tests consisted of a series of fourteen partial unload tests ( n = 14 per treatment) of twelve steps ranging from 1 to 12 mN. Statistically significant increases in hardness and elastic modulus were measured for increasing sintering temperature. These results support the development of clinically successful bioceramic scaffolds with mechanical properties that encourage bone ingrowth and provide structural integrity.

Research has shown that the majority of school students combine full‐time education with part‐time employment. To date educationalists have paid little attention to this, in part due to the negative views about the ‘quality’ of such work and its effect on educational attainment. In this research, a case study approach is used to explore the potential range and breadth of activities carried out by such employees. A range of alternative data‐gathering techniques were used including event recording and work place observations. The findings highlight between job and within job category differences and suggest that many jobs are demanding and can result in skill attainment. The results are discussed in the context of debates about the potential educational value of such employment experiences.

Looked after children and young people represent one of the most vulnerable groups within our society and experience significant health inequalities compared with their counterparts who are not looked after by the local authorities. Tackling these health disparities and improving their health is a multiagency responsibility involving local authorities, health professionals, education and many other agencies. By recognising the potential benefits of collaborative working and incorporating it into everyday practice, it is anticipated that professionals will acknowledge that sharing their skills and expertise is pivotal to the maintenance of an equitable and holistic service for looked after children. This paper aims to raise awareness of the complex needs of these children and examines factors contributing to their poor health outcomes. It will also explore the emerging role of specialist nurses in Scotland in leading and facilitating a service to identify and address the health needs of this vulnerable population.

Precursors of uterine NK cells home to the uterus during early pregnancy from multiple lymphohemopoietic sources. In mouse uterine tissue, pregnancy markedly up-regulates both L-selectin- and α4 integrin-dependent adhesion pathways for circulating human CD56bright cells, the phenotype of human uterine NK cells. Based on roles for these adhesion molecules in lymphocyte homing, we examined effects of pregnancy or the steroid hormones 17β-estradiol or progesterone on lymphocyte-endothelial interactions in secondary lymphoid tissues and in uterus. From preimplantation gestation day 3, specialized high endothelial venules in peripheral lymph nodes and Peyer’s patches supported elevated L-selectin and α4β7 integrin-dependent lymphocyte adhesion under shear throughout pregnancy, as compared with high endothelial venules of virgin or postpartum donors. Squamous endothelium from nonlymphoid tissue was not affected. Pregnancy-equivalent endothelial responses were observed in lymph nodes and Peyer’s patches from ovariectomized mice receiving 17β-estradiol and/or progesterone replacement therapy. Adhesion of human CD56bright cells to uteri from pregnant or hormone-treated ovariectomized mice was enhanced through L-selectin- and α4 integrin-dependent mechanisms and involved multiple vascular adhesion molecules including mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1, VCAM-1, and peripheral lymph node addressin. Analysis of Tie2-green fluorescence protein transgenic mice demonstrated that CD56bright cells adhered primarily to vascular endothelium within the decidua basalis. Microdomain localization of adhesion involving large clusters of lymphocytes was induced on uteri from natural matings, but not pseudopregnancy. Steroid hormones also had independent effects on L-selectin function in splenic lymphocytes that mimicked physiological stimulation induced by pregnancy or fever-range temperatures. These results provide the first evidence for coordinated, organ-specific, steroid hormone-induced changes in lymphocyte homing mechanisms that could contribute to local and systemic immune responses during pregnancy.

Durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf.) is produced primarily in the Northern Great Plains and the Pacific Southwest of the United States. Current germplasm is predominantly of the spring growth habit. The objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of winter durum production in Virginia based upon both yield and quality parameters. Adaptation and yield potential of available winter durum lines were assessed from 1993-1998, in three physiographic regions in Virginia. The highest average durum yields were produced in the northern piedmont plateau at the Orange County location. Winter durum yields generally averaged 1600-2800 kg/ha less than soft red winter wheat, traditionally grown in the state. The price premium for high quality durum can compensate for this difference in yield. Based on average durum yields, and assuming the grain meets U.S. No. 2 Hard Amber Durum standards, durum production in Virginia would have been more profitable than soft red winter wheat production in 1994 and 1997. Physical and chemical quality analyses of the top 19 performing durum lines were performed to determine grain marketability, suitability for pasta, and potential consumer acceptance of the end product. Protein content and gluten strength of the Virginia grown durum were acceptable. Color, firmness, and cooking loss of pasta produced from Virginia grown durum were comparable to pasta produced from commercial semolina. Requirements for U.S. No. 2 Amber Durum were met by 21% of the lines in both 1996 and 1997. Overall, the wet, humid Virginia climate was the greatest hindrance to durum production and quality. The field trials and quality analyses showed that high quality durum production in Virginia is possible, but not consistent over all years. Master of Science

It was hypothesized, following attribution theory, thatpsychological closeness (such as familiarity, similarity, and physical proximity) to the perpetrators of delinquency would lead to its being explained in terms of external (environmental and situational) factors. In contrast, since being a victim of delinquent acts imbues one with personal relevance it should promote internal (dispositional and personal) explanations. Consistent with these hypotheses, the 15-year-olds in the present study endorsed less individualistic explanations and stressed the social functions of delinquency more than did older subjects in an earlier study (A. Furnham and M. Henderson [1983] “Lay Theories of Delinquency,”European Journal of Social Psychology, 13: 107–112). Moreover, males, those living closer to the city center, and nonvictims favored external explanations more than did females, those living on the outskirts of the city and in rural areas and victims. It is concluded that social explanations for delinquency are informed both by group membership and by the context and quality of experiences of delinquency.