Home About us Contact
|
Home About us Contact | ||
|
|
||
Measured Parameters (measured + parameter)
Selected AbstractsSanitation Procedure Affects Biochemical and Nutritional Changes of Shredded CarrotsJOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 2 2007Saúl Ruiz-Cruz ABSTRACT:, Fresh-cut vegetables are considered convenient but with less nutritional quality compared to raw natural produce. Carrots are highly appreciated because of their carotene and antioxidant nutrients, but processing requires an appropriate sanitation procedure that ensures microbiological safety to consumers. The effect of the sanitation processing on the nutritional composition of shredded carrots was studied. Treatments tested were tap water, 200 ppm sodium hypochlorite (Cl), 40 ppm peroxyacetic acid (PA), and 100, 250, and 500 ppm acidified sodium chlorite (ASC). Measured parameters were oxygen radical absorbing capacity (ORAC), total phenolics and carotenoids, sugars, and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and peroxidase (POD) activity. Shredded carrots sanitized with ASC retained higher levels of sugars, carotene, and antioxidant capacity. ASC also delayed the PAL and POD activity. These results show the importance of evaluating nutritional parameters during processing stages, since minimal processing does not necessarily imply loss of nutritional value. Furthermore, the availability of fresh-cut produce may increase the intake of nutrients, with a positive effect on health. [source] Simulated rainfall evaluation of revegetation/mulch erosion control in the Lake Tahoe Basin,1: method assessmentLAND DEGRADATION AND DEVELOPMENT, Issue 6 2004M. E. Grismer Abstract Revegetation of road cuts and fills is intended to stabilize those drastically disturbed areas so that sediment is not transported to adjacent waterways. Sediment has resulted in water quality degradation, an extremely critical issue in the Lake Tahoe Basin. Many revegetation efforts in this semiarid, subalpine environment have resulted in low levels of plant cover, thus failing to meet project goals. Further, no adequate physical method of assessing project effectiveness has been developed, relative to runoff or sediment movement. This paper describes the use of a portable rainfall simulator (RS) to conduct a preliminary assessment of the effectiveness of a variety of erosion-control treatments and treatment effects on hydrologic parameters and erosion. The particular goal of this paper is to determine whether the RS method can measure revegetation treatment effects on infiltration and erosion. The RS-plot studies were used to determine slope, cover (mulch and vegetation) and surface roughness effects on infiltration, runoff and erosion rates at several roadcuts across the basin. A rainfall rate of ,60,mm,h,1, approximating the 100-yr, 15-min design storm, was applied over replicated 0·64,m2 plots in each treatment type and over bare-soil plots for comparison. Simulated rainfall had a mean drop size of ,2·1,mm and approximately 70% of ,natural' kinetic energy. Measured parameters included time to runoff, infiltration, runoff/infiltration rate, sediment discharge rate and average sediment concentration as well as analysis of total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) and dissolved phosphorus (TDP) from filtered (0·45,,m) runoff samples. Runoff rates, sediment concentrations and yields were greater from volcanic soils as compared to that from granitic soils for nearly all cover conditions. For example, bare soil sediment yields from volcanic soils ranged from 2,12 as compared to 0·3,3,g,m,2,mm,1 for granitic soils. Pine-needle mulch cover treatments substantially reduced sediment yields from all plots. Plot microtopography or roughness and cross-slope had no effect on sediment concentrations in runoff or sediment yield. RS measurements showed discernible differences in runoff, infiltration, and sediment yields between treatments. Runoff nutrient concentrations were not distinguishable from that in the rainwater used. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Posturographic description of the regaining of postural stability following strokeCLINICAL PHYSIOLOGY AND FUNCTIONAL IMAGING, Issue 1 2005Henrik Rogind Summary Background:, Failing balance and increased liability to falling are common complaints among hemiplegic subjects. During rehabilitation much effort is put into regaining postural stability. Purpose:, To describe the regaining of postural stability during rehabilitation for the first year following stroke in hemiplegic patients Materials and methods:, Twenty-six patients were included within 5 days of suffering a stroke resulting from a CT-verified clearly defined thromboembolic lesion, localized in the vascular bed of middle cerebral artery on either side. Posturographic evaluation of sway was performed on a commercially available force plate system (Balance Master Pro®). Measured parameters included per cent maximum stability (PMS), per cent ankle strategy (AST), and average angular velocity (AVE). An additional parameter was derived by calculating the slope (SLP) of the linear relationship between stability and ankle strategy. SLP reflects the predisposition of the stroke patient to keep using ankle strategy when faced with increasingly difficult balance tasks. The presence of familiarization to the measurement method was examined by including a preliminary measurement not otherwise included in the analysis of changes during the first year of follow-up. The temporal evolvement of sway was described by measuring sway parameters 1, 2, 4, 8 and 52 weeks following stroke. The proportions of the variation in sway caused by measurement error and between patients were compared. Results:, All parameters improved over time, as demonstrated by significant improvements from each of week 1, 2, 4 and 8 to week 52. There was evidence of familiarisation for PMS, AST and AVE, but not for SLP. Estimation of variance components showed that between patient variation accounts for between two-thirds and four-fifths of the total variation. A considerable part of this variation was caused by individual differences in the temporal improvement of sway over time. Patients considered the evaluation of postural sway demanding and time consuming resulting in a relatively large loss to follow-up: 15 patients completed the 8-week visit while seven completed the 1 year visit. Conclusion:, Postural stability increases for the first year following stroke. There is evidence of familiarization towards the measurements process for the traditional posturographic parameters PMS, AST and AVE, but not for the derived parameter SLP, which might make the latter a candidate for a sway parameter reflecting basic mechanisms of upholding upright stance in hemiplegic patients. The estimated variance components stress the considerable between-patient variation and question the ability of the force plate method to monitor individual sway performance of such patients during the rehabilitation process. [source] Modified atmosphere packaging affects lipid oxidation, myofibrillar fragmentation index and eating quality of beefPACKAGING TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE, Issue 2 2009Ina Clausen Abstract The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) systems applied during ageing and retail display on the quality of beef longissimus dorsi. The quality of the steaks was measured by sensory analysis, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), myofibrillar fragmentation index (MFI), protein oxidation, weight loss, cooking loss and vitamin E content. The study included 11 different packaging systems investigated in two separate trials, using O2, CO2, N2 gas and vacuum in combination or alone during ageing and retail display. In some systems, loins were sliced into steaks before packaging, and in other systems, loins were vacuum packed and aged for 14,18 days, and thereafter were sliced and repacked in different atmospheres. Systems including high O2 MAP resulted in a large increase in warmed-over flavour and in TBARS as well as a decrease in juiciness, tenderness and vitamin E content, compared to anaerobic systems. Also, MFI was lower in high O2 MAP steaks, and an increase in protein oxidation was seen, suggesting that the decrease in meat tenderness was due to reduced proteolysis and/or protein oxidation. In addition, the cooked steaks of high O2 MAP looked well done, although the internal temperature was only 62°C, indicating premature browning. Ageing of steaks in N2 did not affect any measured parameter compared to vacuum thermoforming packed muscle. Steaks stored in vacuum skin pack for 20 days were less tender than steaks stored in 100% N2 for 18 days followed by 2 days in atmospheric air. In conclusion, packaging in high O2 concentrations compromises several aspects of meat quality. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Quantifying histological changes in archaeological bones using BSE,SEM image analysisARCHAEOMETRY, Issue 3 2002G. Turner, Walker Recent years have seen rapid developments in the understanding of diagenetic changes to archaeological bones. In particular, the degradation or preservation of proteins and other biomolecules has been explored using an increasingly sophisticated battery of analytical techniques. Problems remain, however, in correlating these parameters with physical changes to bone that may be observed microscopically. This is due, in part, to the problems in reproducibly quantifying histological changes to archaeological bone. This paper introduces a novel method for the accurate quantification of these changes employing image analysis of SEM images. Self,consistency of results was tested using measurements of total calcium content at different magnifications. The term ,bioerosion index' is suggested for the measured parameter. [source] Ocular blood flow and oxygen delivery to the retina in primary open-angle glaucoma patients: the addition of dorzolamide to timolol monotherapyACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 1 2010Brent Siesky Abstract Purpose:, To assess the effects of adding dorzolamide to timolol monotherapy on ocular haemodynamics and retinal oxygen saturation in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Methods:, Twenty-four patients (12 healthy, 12 with POAG) were treated with dorzolamide/timolol combination (DT) versus timolol maleate 0.5% twice daily in a randomized, crossover, double-blind study conducted over a period of 18 months. Patients received each treatment for 8 months then crossed over to the other treatment after a 1-month washout and second baseline. Goldmann applanation tonometry, Heidelberg retinal flowmetry (HRF), colour Doppler imaging (CDI) and retinal photographic oximetry were performed at each visit. Results:, DT significantly reduced intraocular pressure (IOP) in both glaucomatous [right eye (OD) ,13.15%, left eye (OS) ,14.43%; p < 0.036] and non-glaucomatous (OD ,12.4%, OS ,13.88%; p < 0.039) patients compared to timolol after 8 months of treatment. DT significantly reduced the number of zero blood flow pixels in the superior (,39.72%; p < 0.014) and inferior (,51.44%; p < 0.008) retina in the non-glaucomatous group and inferior retina in the glaucomatous group (,55.38%, p < 0.006). The continuation of timolol monotherapy from baseline did not change (p < 0.05) any measured parameter and neither treatment had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on retinal oximetry or CDI parameters. Conclusion:, The addition of dorzolamide to timolol monotherapy decreases IOP and increases retinal blood flow in the superficial retinal vasculature in both glaucomatous and healthy patients following 8 months of treatment. The combination of increased retinal blood flow with consistent oxygen saturation may potentially increase oxygen delivery to the retina. [source] Chronic effects of polychlorinated dibenzofurans on mink in laboratory and field environmentsINTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT, Issue 2 2009Matthew J Zwiernik Abstract Mink are often used as a sentinel species in ecological risk assessments of chemicals such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dibenzo- p -dioxins (PCDDs), and dibenzofurans (PCDFs) that cause toxicity mediated through the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor. Considerable toxicological information is available on the effects of PCBs and PCDDs on mink, but limited toxicological information is available for PCDFs. Thus, exposure concentrations at which adverse effects occur could not be determined reliably for complex mixtures in which PCDFs dominate the total calculated concentration of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p -dioxin equivalent (TEQ). Two studies were conducted to evaluate the potential toxicity of PCDFs to mink. The first was a chronic exposure, conducted under controlled laboratory conditions, in which mink were exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzofuran (2,3,7,8-TCDF) concentrations as great as 2.4 × 103 ng 2,3,7,8-TCDF/kg wet-weight (ww) diet or 2.4 × 102 ng TEQ2006-WHO-mammal/kg ww diet. In that study, transient decreases in body masses of kits relative to the controls was the only statistically significant effect observed. The second study was a 3-y field study during which indicators of individual health, including hematological and morphological parameters, were determined for mink exposed chronically to a mixture of PCDDs and PCDFs under field conditions. In the field study, there were no statistically significant differences in any of the measured parameters between mink exposed to a median estimated dietary dose of 31 ng TEQ2006-WHO-mammal/kg ww and mink from an upstream reference area where they had a median dietary exposure of 0.68 ng TEQ2006-WHO-mammal/kg ww. In both studies, concentrations of TEQ2006-WHO-mammal to which the mink were exposed exceeded those at which adverse effects, based on studies with PCDD and PCB congeners, would have been expected. Yet in both instances where PCDF congeners were the sole or predominant source of the TEQ2006-WHO-mammal, predicted adverse effects were not observed. Taken together, the results of these studies suggest that the values of the mammalian-specific toxicity equivalency factors suggested by the World Health Organization overestimate the toxic potency of PCDFs to mink. Therefore, hazard cannot be accurately predicted by making comparisons to toxicity reference values derived from exposure studies conducted with PCBs or PCDDs in situations where mink are exposed to TEQ mixtures dominated by PCDFs. [source] A perceptual quality model intended for adaptive VoIP applications,INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS, Issue 3 2006Christian Hoene Abstract Quality models predict the perceptual quality of services as they calculate subjective ratings from measured parameters. In this article, we present a new quality model that evaluates Voice over IP (VoIP) telephone calls. In addition to packet loss rate, coding mode and delay, it takes into account the impairments due to changes in the transmission configuration (e.g. switching the coding mode or re-scheduling the playout time). Moreover, this model can be used at run time to control the transmission of such calls. It is also computationally efficient and open source. To demonstrate the potential of our model, we apply it to select the ideal coding and packet rate in bandwidth-limited environments. Furthermore, we decide, based on model predictions, whether to delay the playout of speech frames after delay spikes. Delay spikes often occur after congestion and cause packets to arrive too late. We show a considerable improvement in perceptual speech quality if our model is applied to control VoIP transmissions. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Influence of starter culture type and incubation temperatures on rheology and microstructure of low fat set yoghurtINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DAIRY TECHNOLOGY, Issue 4 2009HABIB ABBASI The effects of different cultures and incubation temperatures on the physical properties of low fat yoghurts were investigated. The samples were incubated with exopolysaccharide (EPS)-producing and non-EPS-producing cultures at 37, 42 and 45°C. All measured parameters except firmness were influenced by culture type and incubation temperature. Firmness, G, and G, were maximised at 42°C for both cultures. Increased incubation temperature and EPS culture led to a higher water-holding capacity but lower syneresis, G, and G,. The EPS treatment incubated at 37°C showed even lower syneresis than non-EPS treatments incubated at higher temperatures. [source] Thermoeconomic analysis of household refrigeratorsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENERGY RESEARCH, Issue 10 2007Arif Hepbasli Abstract This study deals with thermoeconomic analysis of household refrigerators for providing useful insights into the relations between thermodynamics and economics. In the analysis, the EXCEM method based on the quantities exergy, cost, energy and mass is applied to a household refrigerator using the refrigerant R134a. The performance evaluation of the refrigerator is conducted in terms of exergoeconomic aspects based on the various reference state temperatures ranging from 0 to 20°C. The exergy destructions in each of the components of the overall system are determined for average values of experimentally measured parameters. Exergy efficiencies of the system components are determined to assess their performances and to elucidate potentials for improvement. Thermodynamic loss rate-to-capital cost ratios for each components of the refrigerator are investigated. Correlations are developed to estimate exergy efficiencies and ratios of exergy loss rate-to-capital cost as a function of reference (dead) state temperature. The ratios of exergy loss rates to capital cost values are obtained to vary from 2.949 × 10,4 to 3.468 × 10,4 kW US$,1. The exergy efficiency values are also found to range from 13.69 to 28.00% and 58.15 to 68.88% on the basis of net rational efficiency and product/fuel at the reference state temperatures considered, respectively. It is expected that the results obtained will be useful to those involved in the development of analysis and design methodologies that integrate thermodynamics and economics. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Exergetic performance assessment of a ground-source heat pump drying systemINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENERGY RESEARCH, Issue 8 2007Ebru Hancioglu Kuzgunkaya Abstract In evaluating the efficiency of heat pump (HP) systems, the most commonly used measure is the energy (or first law) efficiency, which is modified to a coefficient of performance (COP) for HP systems. However, for indicating the possibilities for thermodynamic improvement, energy analysis is inadequate and exergy analysis is needed. This study presents an exergetic assessment of a ground-source (or geothermal) HP (GSHP) drying system. This system was designed, constructed and tested in the Solar Energy Institute of Ege University, Izmir, Turkey. The exergy destructions in each of the components of the overall system are determined for average values of experimentally measured parameters. Exergy efficiencies of the system components are determined to assess their performances and to elucidate potentials for improvement. COP values for the GSHP unit and overall GSHP drying system are found to range between 1.63,2.88 and 1.45,2.65, respectively, while corresponding exergy efficiency values on a product/fuel basis are found to be 21.1 and 15.5% at a dead state temperature of 27°C, respectively. Specific moisture extraction rate (SMER) on the system basis is obtained to be 0.122 kg kW,1 h,1. For drying systems, the so-called specific moisture exergetic rate (SMExR), which is defined as the ratio of the moisture removed in kg to the exergy input in kW h, is also proposed by the authors. The SMExR of the whole GSHP drying system is found to be 5.11 kg kW,1 h,1. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Mechanical and fracture properties for predicting cracking in semi-sweet biscuitsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 4 2005Qasim Saleem Summary Mechanical and fracture properties required for predicting crack development in semi-sweet (,rich tea') biscuits have been experimentally determined. Pilot-scale biscuits of different fat concentrations were prepared and studied with commercial biscuits at different moisture contents. Bending modulus, fracture stress and strain were measured using three-point bending tests. All biscuit types showed considerable dependence on moisture content over a range of 4,12%. Young's modulus and failure stress showed a uniform decrease and failure strain showed an increase with increasing moisture content. For pilot-scale biscuits of different fat concentrations, an increase in fat level caused a decrease in modulus and failure stress values; however, the failure strains were very similar for all the fat types. The testing of the samples with top surface up and top surface down revealed that the sample orientation does not affect the measured parameters. The measured parameters also did not show any directional dependence within the plane, thus assuring that the assumption of an isotropic material would be valid for modelling. The mechanical and fracture properties measured in this study will serve as a very useful set of data to predict the stress state and cracking of the checked biscuits. [source] Impact of Soil Tillage and Crop Rotation on Barley (Hordeum vulgare) and Weeds in a Semi-arid EnvironmentJOURNAL OF AGRONOMY AND CROP SCIENCE, Issue 6 2004H. Z. Ghosheh Abstract Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effect of mouldboard- or chisel-ploughing and rotations on barley crops and associated weeds in a semi-arid location. Two primary soil tillage operations and eight crop rotation-tillage operation combinations were evaluated over two successive seasons. Drought conditions prevailed (<152 mm annual precipitation) and affected the measured parameters. Barley grown in mouldboard-ploughed plots had higher biomass compared with chisel-ploughed plots. Barley grain yield was greater in mouldboard-ploughed plots in a fallow-fallow-barley rotation. Weed species densities varied between tillage systems and rotations. Density of Hordeum marinum, for example, was high in fallow-barley-fallow in chisel-ploughed plots, and was high under more continuous fallow in mouldboard-ploughed plots. Similar variations were also observed in weed fresh weights and in numbers of seed produced. The results describe the productivity of barley under extremely dry conditions, where an advantage for mouldboard ploughing was observed. The results also indicate the complexity of weed communities in their response towards different tillage-rotation combinations. [source] Osteogenesis by guided tissue regeneration and demineralized bone matrixJOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 3 2003N. Mardas Abstract Aim:, To evaluate in a discriminating capsule model whether bone formation by guided tissue regeneration (GTR) may be influenced by concomitant implantation of demineralized bone matrix (DBM). Materials and Methods:, Thirty 4-month-old male albino rats of the Wistar strain were used in the study. Following surgical exposure of the mandibular ramus, a hemispherical, Teflon capsule (5.0 mm in diameter), loosely packed with a standardized amount of DBM, was placed with its open part facing the lateral bone surface of the ramus. At the contralateral side, an empty capsule was placed, serving as control. After healing periods of 15, 30, and 120 days, groups of 10 animals were sacrificed and 40,70 ,m thick undecalcified sections of the capsules were produced. In the sections, the cross-sectional areas of (1) the space created by the capsule, (2) newly formed bone, (3) DBM particles, (4) loose connective tissue as well as the (5) height of the capsules, and (6) that of the newly formed bone were measured. Results:, Increasing bone fill was observed in both test and control sites from 30 to 120 days. After 30 days of healing, the mean amount of bone was approx. 3% of the cross-sectional area of the capsules at the test sites while it was 8% in the control sites (p<0.05). However, no statistically significant differences were observed between the test (46%) and control (64%) sites after 120 days regarding any of the measured parameters (p>0.05). The newly formed bone in the DBM group at 120 days, on the other hand, appeared more dense than that in the control capsules. Conclusion:, DBM used as an adjunct to GTR did not provide any added effect on bone formation but increased the density of the newly formed bone. Zusammenfassung Ziel: Die Untersuchung in einem Kapselmodell, welches differenzieren kann, ob die Knochenbildung durch GTR durch die gleichzeitige Implantation von demineralisierter Knochenmatrix (DBM) beeinflusst werden könnte Material und Methoden: Dreißig männliche 4-Monate-alte Albinoratten des Wistar Stammes wurden in der Studie verwendet. Nach der chirurgischen Freilegung des Unterkieferastes wurde eine halbkugelförmige Teflonkapsel (5,0 mm Durchmesser), welche locker mit einer standardisierten Menge von DBM versehen war, wurde mit ihrer offenen Fläche auf die seitlichen Knochenfläche des Ramus gelegt. Auf der kontralateralen Seite diente eine leere Kapsel als Kontrolle. Nach Heilungsintervallen von 15, 30 und 120 Tagen wurden Gruppen von 10 Tieren geopfert und 40-70 ,m dicke nicht-entkalkte Schnitte der Kapseln wurden hergestellt. An den Schnitten wurde die Querschnittsfläche von: 1) der Fläche, die von der Kapsel geschaffen wurde, 2) dem neu gebildeten Knochen, 3) den DBM-Partikeln, 4) dem lockeren Bindegewebe gemessen, als auch 5) die Höhe der Kapseln und 6) des neu gebildeten Knochens bestimmt. Ergebnisse: Von Tag 30 zu Tag 120 wurde sowohl bei den Test- als auch bei den Kontrollstellen eine erhöhte Knochenauffüllung beobachtet. Nach 30 Tagen der Heilung betrug an den Teststellen die mittlere Knochenmenge ungefähr 3% der Querschnittsfläche der Kapseln, während sie an den Kontrollstellen 8% (p<0,05) betrug. Jedoch wurde nach 120 Tagen bei keinem der gemessenen Parameter eine statistisch signifikante Differenz zwischen den Test- (46%) und den Kontrollstellen (64%) beobachtet. Auf der anderen Seite erschien nach 120 Tagen in der DBM-Gruppe der neu gebildete Knochen dichter als in den Kontrollkapseln Schlussfolgerung: DBM welches als Zusatz bei der GTR verwendet wurde, lieferte keinen zusätzlichen Effekt bei der Knochenbildung, aber erhöhte die Dichte des neu gebildeten Knochens. Résumé Le but de cette étude a été d'évaluer dans un modèle de capsule discriminatoire si la formation osseuse par regénération tissulaire guidée (GTR) pouvait être influencée par l'implantation concomitante de matrice osseuse déminéralisée (DBM). Trente rats albinos mâles âgés de quatre mois de la souche Wistar ont été utilisés pour cette étude. A la suite de l'exposition chirurgicale de la branche montante mandibulaire, une capsule en téflon hémisphérique de 0,5 mm de diamètre remplie sans tassement avec une quantité standardisée de DBM a été placée avec sa partie ouverte contre la surface osseuse latérale de la branche. Du côté contralatéral, une capsule vide était placée servant de contrôle. Après des périodes de guérison de 15, 30 et 120 jours, des groupes de dix animaux ont été tués et des coupes non-décalcifiées de 40 à 70 ,m d'épaisseur des capsules ont été effectuées. Dans ces coupes, une aire sur coupe transversale contenant 1) l'espace créé par la capsule, 2) l'os néoformé, 3) des particules DBM, 4) du tissu conjonctif lâche; 5) la hauteur des capsules et 6) et celle de l'os néoformé ont été mesurés. Un comblement osseux de plus en plus important tant dans les sites contrôles que les sites tests a été constaté entre les jours 30 et 120. Après 30 jours de guérison, la quantité moyenne d'os formait approximativement 3% de l'aire de la coupe des capsules dans les sites tests tandis qu'elle était de 8% dans les sites contrôles (p<0,05). Cependant, aucune différence statistique n'a été observée entre les sites tests (46%) et les sites contrôles (64%) après 120 jours pour les paramètres mesurés (p>0,05). L'os néoformé dans le groupe DBM à 120 jours semblait plus dense que dans les capsules contrôles. Le DBM utilisé durant la GTR n'apportait aucun effet additionnel sur la formation osseuse mais augmentait cependant la densité du nouvel os formé. [source] Assessment of renal circulation in small for gestational age and appropriate for gestational age term newborns: A prospective studyJOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND, Issue 4 2008Hana Kolarovszka Abstract Purpose To compare selected parameters of renal circulation between small for gestational age (SGA) and appropriate for gestational age (AGA) newborns. Methods Fifty-two SGA and 100 AGA term newborns were examined. The size of the kidneys were measured, and renal blood flow in the central and intraparenchymal renal arteries were assessed via Doppler sonography. Peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), mean blood flow velocity (V mean), resistance index (RI), and pulsatility index (PI) were determined and compared between the groups. Results No statistically significant differences in the velocity parameters were found between SGA and AGA infants in central renal arteries. Slightly higher RIs and PIs were seen in AGA newborns (RI, 0.76 ± 0.13 versus 0.78 ± 0.06 [p < 0.05]; PI, 1.65 ± 0.54 versus 1.84 ± 0.46 [p < 0.05]). There were statistically significant differences between the groups in all measured parameters in intraparenchymal arteries (RI, 0.57 ± 0.11 versus 0.63 ± 0.05 [p < 0.001]; PI, 0.89 ± 0.26 versus 1.09 ± 0.16 [p < 0.001]) except PSV (7.11 ± 1.55 versus 7.14 ± 0.81 cm/s [p > 0.05]). Conclusion Based on our findings, we suggest that renal circulation is not negatively influenced by intrauterine growth restriction in SGA neonates compared with AGA newborns. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2008 [source] Sonographic measurement of the fetal cerebellum, cisterna magna, and cavum septum pellucidum in normal fetuses in the second and third trimesters of pregnancyJOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND, Issue 4 2003Selami Serhatlioglu MD Abstract Purpose Absence of the cavum septum pellucidum (CSP), the cisterna magna (CM), or both, and enlargement of either or both structures are associated with various central nervous system malformations. In an effort to determine normal sizes and relationships between these cranial structures, we measured the CSP and CM in normal fetuses in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy using transabdominal sonography. Methods Women with uncomplicated pregnancies and normal singleton fetuses between 16 and 38 weeks' menstrual age were included in this prospective study. The width and anteroposterior (AP) diameters of the CSP were measured on the transverse transventricular plane, and the AP diameter of the CM was measured on the transcerebellar plane from the posterior aspect of the cerebellar vermis to the inner edge of the cranium. The transverse and AP diameters of the cerebellum were also measured. In addition, we measured the biparietal diameters (BPDs). Results In total, 130 women participated; 64 were examined in their second trimester and 66 in their third trimester. The mean age of the women was 27.4 ± 4.8 years (range, 18,38 years), and the mean menstrual age of the fetuses was 26.9 ± 6.7 weeks (range, 16,38 weeks). The mean BPD was 66.8 ± 18.7 mm (range, 30,96 mm). The mean width and AP diameter of the CSP and the mean AP diameter of the CM differed significantly between the second and third trimesters (p < 0.001). All measured parameters correlated significantly with menstrual age and BPD. Conclusions In normal fetuses, the CSP and CM should be visible on transabdominal sonography between 16 and 38 weeks' menstrual age. Because abnormalities in these cranial structures may be indicative of central nervous system malformations, the availability of mean sonographic measurements from normal fetuses should be helpful in determining the need for additional testing in fetuses with abnormal measurements. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 31:194,200, 2003 [source] Optimization of Incorporation of Low-molecular-weight Cryoprotectants into Intact Fish MuscleJOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 4 2004L. M. Goeller ABSTRACT: Chunks of freshwater trout muscle were immersed in sorbitol solutions (0% to 60%), under different vacuum conditions, for up to 30 min at 5 °C. Moisture loss, weight change, and sorbitol uptake were measured or calculated by mass balance, and cryoprotection during subsequent freezing and thawing was monitored as change in myosin Ca2+ ATPase activity. Vacuum treatment had no effect on measured parameters. Initial sorbitol uptake and weight loss were greater at higher sorbitol concentrations, but adequate cryoprotection was achieved by all treatments when diffusion time following immersion was extended sufficiently. Injection of 60% sorbitol was faster in achieving desired levels of sorbitol in fish meat and induced excellent cryoprotection. [source] Statistical morphological analysis of hippocampal principal neurons indicates cell-specific repulsion of dendrites from their own cellJOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE RESEARCH, Issue 2 2003Alexei V. Samsonovich Abstract Traditionally, the sources of guidance cues for dendritic outgrowth are mainly associated with external bodies (A) rather than with the same neuron from which dendrites originate (B). To quantify the relationship between factors A and B as determinants of the adult dendritic shape, the morphology of 83 intracellularly characterized, stained, completely reconstructed, and digitized principal neurons of the rat hippocampus was statistically analyzed using Bayesian optimization. It was found that the dominant directional preference (tropism) manifested in dendritic turns is to grow away from the soma rather than toward the incoming fibers or in any other fixed direction; therefore, B is predominant. Results are robust and consistent for all examined morphological classes (dentate gyrus granule cells, basal and apical trees of CA3 and CA1 pyramidal cells). In addition, computer remodeling of neurons based on the measured parameters produced virtual structures consistent with real morphologies, as confirmed by measurement of several global emergent parameters. Thus, the simple description of dendritic shape based on dendrites' tendency to grow straight, away from their own soma, and with additional random deflections, proves remarkably accurate and complete. Although based on adult neurons, these results suggest that dendritic guidance during development may be associated primarily with the host cell. This possibility challenges the traditional concept of dendritic guidance: in that hippocampal cells are densely packed and have highly overlapping dendritic fields, the somatodendritic repulsion must be cell specific. Plausible mechanisms involving extracellular effects of spikes are discussed, together with feasible experimental tests and predicted results. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] TEXTURE PROFILE ANALYSIS , HOW IMPORTANT ARE THE PARAMETERS?JOURNAL OF TEXTURE STUDIES, Issue 5 2010ANDREW J. ROSENTHAL ABSTRACT A starch-glycerol gel was subjected to a two-bite compression test using two sample-instrument geometries, various speeds of compression and strain levels, both with lubrication or not. Results were interpreted using the primary characteristic terminology previously defined in Texture Profile Analysis. Compression speeds from 0.1 to 10 m/s showed a logarithmic relationship with hardness, cohesiveness, corrected cohesiveness and adhesiveness. Gels survived compression to strains of 0.90 without failing, strain levels from 0.25 to 0.90 resulted in an exponential rise in hardness with increasing strain and linear reduction in corrected cohesiveness. Lubrication had no significant influence on any of the measured parameters and an application of force with different sample-instrument geometry revealed that parallel plates and plungers only had an influence on gel hardness. Caution is urged when researchers modify the test protocol from 75% deformation with parallel plates. A minimum crosshead speed of 2 mm/s is recommended. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS Texture Profile Analysis has been widely applied to test solid and semisolid foods; however, some researchers deviate from the original test protocol. This article attempts to show how modifying the parameters in the test protocol can influence the apparent properties of the sample. [source] INFLUENCE OF AROMA COMPOUNDS ON LARGE DEFORMATION PROPERTIES OF STARCH-BASED SYSTEMS DURING AGINGJOURNAL OF TEXTURE STUDIES, Issue 3 2001G. ARVISENET The effect of aroma compounds on the texture of gelled aqueous corn starch systems was studied by uniaxial compression during aging for 18 days. Three different types of behavior were observed, depending on the nature of the added aroma compound. Isoamyl acetate did not modify the measured parameters, compared with nonflavored products. Linalool, known for its ability to form inclusion complexes with amylose, modified the parameters which are usually considered to be governed by the rearrangement of amylose chains. Ethyl hexanoate modified the parameters depending mostly on amylopectin. These results suggest that the nature of the aroma compound may play a major role in interactions with starch. These interactions can be different from inclusion complexes involving amylose chains only, the latter being widely described by different authors. [source] Bipolar Fatigue Caused by Field Screening in Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 CeramicsJOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CERAMIC SOCIETY, Issue 12 2007Nina Balke Bipolar cycling of lead zirconate titanate ceramics can lead to massive material damage in regions close to the electrode. The damaged region can be identified by color changes, and the microstructure in this region shows signs of interface melting. This damaged region can screen the sample volume from the applied voltages and reduced fields are applied to the undamaged part of the sample. This has two effects. The first one is that the bulk is effectively subjected to smaller fields, but the measured parameters are assigned to the applied field, yielding apparent fatigue curves. The second effect is that with further cycling, field screening protects the bulk of the sample from fatigue due to the reduced effective fields. If the damaged region is mechanically removed and the ferroelectric hystereses are measured again, nearly unfatigued parameters are obtained. [source] Maintenance of bone mass and architecture in denning black bears (Ursus americanus)JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY, Issue 4 2004Connor K. Pardy Abstract Bone mass is dramatically compromised during periods of weightlessness, inactivity, or bed rest. Animals that hibernate reduce their body temperature, heart rate and metabolic activity, and likewise lower bone turnover activity during their immobile state. Black bears Ursus americanus, however, do not hibernate, but rather overwinter by denning during which they maintain a nearly normal functional heart rate, cardiac output and temperature. Furthermore, markers of bone turnover in black bears are maintained during denning periods. Thus, the purpose of this work was to determine if the denning state of relative immobility in black bears results in changes in bone mass and bone architectural structure. Harvested forelimbs (ulna and radius) were compared between pre- and post-denning black bears using X-ray imaging, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, and micro-computed tomography to quantify total distal forelimb bone mineral density, cancellous bone mineral density, bone mineral content, bone volume fraction, degree of anisotropy, structure model index, and trabecular thickness. No significant differences in any of the measured parameters were found in comparing radius and ulna from autumn and spring bears in this cross-sectional sample, suggesting that black bears did not experience a significant change in bone mass or architecture during denning. The statistical power for detecting a significant difference (P, 0.05) for this sample was 0.8. The specific mechanism by which the preservation of bone was attained may be related to skeletal muscle interaction or circulating systemic hormones. [source] Sediment phosphorus characteristics in the clearwater state of Lake Mogan, TurkeyLAKES & RESERVOIRS: RESEARCH AND MANAGEMENT, Issue 3 2008Serap Pulatsü Abstract This study examined the vertical distributions of total phosphorus (TP) and phosphorus fractions, and the iron and organic matter, in the littoral sediment in a macrophyte-dominated, clearwater state in Lake Mogan between September 2005 and August 2006. Benthic macroinvertebrates and total bacteria in the sediment also were determined. No clear seasonal or depth-related (0,20 cm) patterns were found in sediment concentrations for the measured parameters. The phosphorus release was quantitatively very low, and a negative phosphorus release (,0.132 µg m,2 day,1) was measured during the summer months. The TP concentrations of the sediment samples ranged between 675.00 and 1463.80 µg g,1 dry weight (DW), and the trophic level of the lake was eutrophic. On average, inorganic phosphorus fractions comprised the largest fraction (63%), while organic-bound phosphorus (Org , P) constituted 37% of the TP in Lake Mogan. The most important phosphorus-immobilizing factors are high iron content (14 200,47 750 µg g,1 DW), the sediment's clay content (47.80,51.80%), and an abundance of macrophytes at the sampling station. The low abundance of benthic macroinvertebrates (510,850 individuals m,2), which depend on sediments with high iron and low organic matter (5.42,13.30%), played a role in the sediment phosphorus retention. Although bacterial abundance in the surficial sediment appeared to be positively correlated to temperature, the overlying water did not experience anoxic conditions, supporting a state in which bacteria were able to retain phosphorus in their cell structures. Long-term changes in the sediments of Lake Mogan must be monitored lake. In order to optimize the management of the lake, and to determine the longevity of a clearwater state following management measures and continued external phosphorus loading, long-term changes in the sediments of Lake Morgan must be monitored. [source] Assessment and demarcation of trail degradation in a nature reserve, using GIS: case of Bukit Timah Nature ReserveLAND DEGRADATION AND DEVELOPMENT, Issue 5 2007K. Chatterjea Abstract With a significant rise in popularity of nature areas, particularly in urban settings like Singapore, Nature Reserves are being increasingly opened for public recreational use. In the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (BTNR), the only remnant primary rain forest reserve in Singapore, trail networks are being expanded to meet this growing public demand. The physical condition of the present trail networks was assessed by monitoring the changes in surface compaction, soil moisture, infiltration rates, soil organic matter content, root density, litter cover and rill development. These parameters were compared with similar data obtained from undisturbed forested slopes to analyse the degree of changes brought about by trail usage. Significant changes occurred in all measured parameters, indicating observable degradation of the trails, particularly on vulnerable slopes. These changes are due to the heavy and increased use of the forest by visitors. Penetration resistance and shear strength of the top surface layers of the trails are important indicators of trail degradation status and these have been plotted, using GIS, to demarcate trails under different levels of stress. This field monitoring provides a relevant local assessment of trail conditions. It has potential for use in decision-making in future planning and forest management under similar site conditions. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Cerebral Palsy: Results of Surgical Releases Augmented with Electrical Stimulation: A Case StudyNEUROMODULATION, Issue 2 2002James J. McCarthy MD Abstract The purpose of this case study was to evaluate a patient with diplegic cerebral palsy who underwent soft tissue lengthening augmented with intramuscular electrical stimulation. This is a prospective case study, pre- and post-test design. The patient underwent soft tissue lengthenings of the lower extremities, augmented with placement of intramuscular neuromuscular electrodes. Baseline, 4-, 8-, and 12-month follow-up data were obtained which included range of motion, manual muscle strength testing, motion analysis, oxygen consumption, Gross Motor Function Measure, and Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory. All measured parameters, except knee extensor strength, improved during the postoperative period (baseline to 4-month follow-up) and continued to improve during the rehabilitative period (4,12 month follow-up), despite no formal therapy or home exercise program during this period. We conclude that surgical releases augmented with electrical stimulation resulted in a satisfactory clinic outcome, and may offer a new approach to the treatment of patients with cerebral palsy. [source] Senescence and hyperspectral reflectance of cotton leaves exposed to ultraviolet-B radiation and carbon dioxidePHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM, Issue 2 2004Vijaya Gopal Kakani The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of UV-B radiation and atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations ([CO2]) on leaf senescence of cotton by measuring leaf photosynthesis and chlorophyll content and to identify changes in leaf hyperspectral reflectance occurring due to senescence and UV-B radiation. Plants were grown in controlled-environment growth chambers at two [CO2] (360 and 720 µmol mol,1) and three levels of UV-B radiation (0, 7.7 and 15.1 kJ m,2 day,1). Photosynthesis, chlorophyll, carotenoids and phenolic compounds along with leaf hyperspectral reflectance were measured on three leaves aged 12, 21 and 30 days in each of the treatments. No interaction was detected between [CO2] and UV-B for any of the measured parameters. Significant interactions were observed between UV-B and leaf age for photosynthesis and stomatal conductance. Elevated [CO2] enhanced leaf photosynthesis by 32%. On exposure to 0, 7.7 and 15.1 kJ of UV-B, the photosynthetic rates of 30-day-old leaves compared with 12-day-old leaves were reduced by 52, 76 and 86%, respectively. Chlorophyll pigments were not affected by leaf age at UV-B radiation of 0 and 7.7 kJ, but UV-B of 15.1 kJ reduced the chlorophylls by 20, 60 and 80% in 12, 21 and 30-day-old leaves, respectively. The hyperspectral reflectance between 726 and 1142 nm showed interaction for UV-B radiation and leaf age. In cotton, leaf photosynthesis can be used as an indicator of leaf senescence, as it is more sensitive than photosynthetic pigments on exposure to UV-B radiation. This study revealed that, cotton leaves senesced early on exposure to UV-B radiation as indicated by leaf photosynthesis, and leaf hyperspectral reflectance can be used to detect changes caused by UV-B and leaf ageing. [source] Longer wavelengths of light improve the growth, intake and feed efficiency of individually reared juvenile pikeperch Sander lucioperca (L.)AQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 8 2009Ana Carolina Luchiari Abstract We tested the effects of monochromatic light on the specific growth rate (SGR), feed intake and feed efficiency (FE) of juvenile pikeperch, Sander lucioperca (L.). Pikeperch were reared individually for 42 days in aquaria covered with blue, green, yellow or red gelatin filters or white paper (control; n=5). Linear regression analysis indicated a significant positive effect of longer wavelengths of light on the condition factor (CF), FE and SGR. The final weight, SGR and CF were significantly higher in fish reared under red than under white light, and FE was better under green, yellow and red light than under white light (Dunnett's post hoc test, P<0.05) while blue was comparable to white light in terms of the measured parameters. After the growth trial, the spectral sensitivity of photoreceptor cells in the retina was tested using microspectrophotometry, which revealed the presence of rods with ,max at ca. 530 nm and two cone classes, absorbing maximally at ca. 535 and 603 nm, all containing a porphyropsin-based pigment. These results suggest that the presence of mid and long wavelength-sensitive cones enhances visual sensitivity under mid-wavelength and long-wavelength environments, and thus supports the finding that longer wavelengths of incoming light can improve FE and SGR of the cultivated pikeperch. [source] Effect of lifestyle factors and hormone therapy on heart function by serial echocardiography in postmenopausal womenAUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY, Issue 1 2010Soo-Keat KHOO Background:, There is conflicting information on the effects of oestrogen on the heart in women, especially those using postmenopausal hormone therapy. Whilst some studies reported a beneficial effect, others showed adverse outcomes. The interplay of lifestyle factors and type/timing of therapy remains to be clarified. Aim:, The aim of this study was to determine the effects of lifestyle and hormone therapy on heart function and structure in postmenopausal women. Method:, As part of a large longitudinal study of women randomly recruited from an urban population, the study assessed 410 suitable women by echocardiography in Year 1 and Year 5 of the study by two independent cardiologists. Results:, In lifestyle characteristics, the difference in age and body mass (as markers of cardiovascular risk) was in favour of never-users versus hormone therapy-users. Using an arbitrary cut-off ,15% change for an effect, we found lifestyle factors had minimal effect on the two measured parameters , ejection fraction, left ventricular mass. Effects of hormone therapy were variable and mixed; greatest effect was found for an ,early start' of hormone therapy with oestrogen-only preparation , the risk of reduced ejection fraction was decreased [hazard ratio (HR) 0.42, confidence interval = 0.17,1.03, P = 0.06] and risk of increased left ventricular mass was increased (HR 2.21, 1.09,4.49, P = 0.03). Conclusion:, Our findings add to the evidence that oestrogen given to postmenopausal women has a mixed effect on the heart, with effect best shown when started early. [source] Measuring the refractive properties of the diabetic eye during blurred vision and hyperglycaemia using aberrometry and Scheimpflug imagingACTA OPHTHALMOLOGICA, Issue 2 2009Nanouk G. M. Wiemer Abstract. Purpose:, This study aimed to measure the refraction and geometry in the diabetic eye during the presence and absence of hyperglycaemia and blurred vision, using aberrometry and Scheimpflug imaging. Methods:, Aberrometry and Scheimpflug imaging were used to examine ocular refraction and higher-order aberrations, as well as the shape of the cornea and the lens, in 25 patients with diabetes mellitus. From these parameters, the equivalent refractive index of the lens was calculated. Using paired t -tests, comparisons were made between a first series of measurements (Visit 1) taken in the presence of blurred vision and hyperglycaemia (> 10.0 ,mol/l), and a second series of measurements (Visit 2) taken under normal conditions. Results:, The mean difference in blood glucose between Visits 1 and 2 was 5.9 mmol/l (standard deviation [SD] 3.1) (p < 0.0001). Both small hyperopic and myopic shifts of equivalent refractive error (ERE) were found in nine patients (mean absolute difference ERE: 0.38 D [SD 0.12]; p = 0.02). Furthermore, higher-order aberrations (root mean square [RMS] error) were slightly increased in four patients (mean difference RMS error: 0.07 ,m [SD 0.02]; p = 0.04) at Visit 1, compared to Visit 2. No significant changes were observed in the shape of the cornea or lens in any of the patients. No significant correlations were found between changes in blood glucose levels and the measured parameters in diabetic eyes. Conclusions:, The present study suggests that subjective symptoms of blurred vision during hyperglycaemia are not necessarily caused by changes in the refractive properties of the diabetic eye. [source] Comparison of early telescope loading of non-submerged ITI implants in irradiated and non-irradiated oral cancer patientsCLINICAL ORAL IMPLANTS RESEARCH, Issue 4 2006Constantin Alexander Landes Abstract Objective: To compare early dental implant loading in irradiated and non-irradiated oral cancer patients in order to accelerate masticatory function improvement and quality of life. Patients and methods: One hundred and fourteen non-submerged interforaminal ITI implants were early loaded in 30 patients after 3 weeks in situ (telescoped overdenture). Nineteen patients received 72 implants (63%) after local irradiation; 11 non-irradiated patients received 42 implants (37%) with a 24-month follow-up. Results: At 24 month follow-up, one early failure had occurred in an irradiated patient (=99% functioning implants in situ). Peri-implant bleeding and plaque index were similarly high in both groups (40 to 68% average). The Results of other measured parameters were as follows (values for mean; irradiated; non-irradiated patients with respective standard deviations; significance of comparison): bone loss (0.9±0.9; 1.4±0.9; 0.4±0.5 mM; P<0.01); Periotest® score (,2.7±2.7; ,2.4±2.2; ,3.1±3.3; P<0.2); gingival recession (0.6±0.7 mM; 0.8±0.9 mM; 0.4±0.5 mM, P<0.02); and peri-implant probing depths (3±1.2; 2.6±0.6; 3.4±1.7 mM; P<0.002). Conclusion: The results suggest reliable non-submerged implantation and early loading. However, bone loss in irradiated mandibles, combined with higher average Periotest values and gingival recession in an oral environment of altered saliva quantity, quality, microflora and local scarring, requires extended follow-up. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||