Home About us Contact
|
Home About us Contact | ||
|
|
||
Quantitative
Kinds of Quantitative Terms modified by Quantitative Selected AbstractsQuantitative repeated open application testing with a rinse-off product in methyldibromo glutaronitrile-sensitive patients: results of the IVDKCONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 6 2010Annice Heratizadeh Background: While the use of methyldibromo glutaronitrile (MDBGN) in leave-on products is clearly associated with high sensitization or elicitation risk, such a clear-cut relation could be questioned with regard to rinse-off products. Objective: The objective of this study was to find a maximum non-eliciting concentration for rinse-off products in MDBGN patch test-positive patients. Patients and methods: We performed a use-related test [repeated open application test (ROAT)] in patients sensitized to MDBGN with a liquid soap containing three concentrations of MDBGN (50, 200, and 400 p.p.m. MDBGN, respectively). The soap at 50 p.p.m. was used twice daily for 4 weeks. If no reaction of the skin was observed, the product with the next higher concentration was used for another 4 weeks, etc. Results: In total, 32/37 evaluated cases [86.5%; lower exact one-sided 95% confidence limit (CL): 73.7%] did not react to any of the preparations. The remaining reacted as follows: 1/37 reacted to 50 p.p.m., 3/37 to 200 p.p.m., and 1/37 to 400 p.p.m. The cumulative non-response to 50 p.p.m. was 97.3% (lower CL: 87.8%). Conclusions: The majority of subjects sensitized to MDBGN-tolerated rinse-off products containing a maximum concentration of 400 p.p.m. A concentration in rinse-off products in the range of 50 p.p.m. could be regarded as safe for most individuals already sensitized. These concentrations will presumably prevent induction (sensitization) also. [source] Genes involved in the RNA interference pathway are differentially expressed during sea urchin developmentDEVELOPMENTAL DYNAMICS, Issue 11 2007Jia L. Song Abstract RNA-mediated interference (RNAi) is a conserved gene silencing mechanism that involves double-stranded RNA as a signal to trigger the sequence-specific degradation of target mRNA, resulting in posttranscriptional silencing and/or translational repression. Bioinformatic searches in the sea urchin genome database identified homologs of Drosha, DGCR5, Dicer, TRBP, Exportin-5, and Argonautes. Quantitative, real-time polymerase chain reaction indicated that all mRNA accumulate in eggs and in variable levels throughout early development. Whole-mount in situ RNA hybridization showed that all of the important players of the RNAi silencing pathway have abundant mRNA accumulation in oocytes and eggs, but have distinct spatial and temporal expression patterns throughout development. Sequence analysis revealed that each of the four Argonautes examined contain conserved residues important for RNAseH activity within the Piwi domain. This study elucidated that genes involved in the RNAi silencing pathway have dynamic expression and, thus, may have regulatory roles during germ cell development and embryogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 236:3180,3190, 2007. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Association of British Clinical Diabetologists (ABCD) and Diabetes-UK survey of specialist diabetes services in the UK, 2006.DIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 6 2008Abstract Aims To identify the views and working practices of consultant diabetologists in the UK in 2006,2007, the current provision of specialist services, and to examine changes since 2000. Methods All 592 UK consultant diabetologists were invited to participate in an on-line survey. Quantitative and qualitative analyses of responses were undertaken. A composite ,well-resourced service score' was calculated. In addition to an analysis of all respondents, a sub-analysis was undertaken, comparing localities represented both in 2006/2007 and in 2000. Results In 2006/2007, a 49% response rate was achieved, representing 50% of acute National Health Service Trusts. Staffing levels had improved, but remained below recommendations made in 2000. Ten percent of specialist services were still provided by single-handed consultants, especially in Northern Ireland (in 50% of responses, P = 0.001 vs. other nations). Antenatal, joint adult,paediatric and ophthalmology sub-specialist diabetes services and availability of biochemical tests had improved since 2000, but access to psychology services had declined. Almost 90% of consultants had no clinical engagement in providing community diabetes services. The ,well-resourced service score' had not improved since 2000. There was continued evidence of disparity in resources between the nations (lowest in Wales and Northern Ireland, P = 0.007), between regions in England (lowest in the East Midlands and the Eastern regions, P = 0.028), and in centres with a single-handed consultant service (P = 0.001). Job satisfaction correlated with well-resourced service score (P = 0.001). The main concerns and threats to specialist services were deficiencies in psychology access, inadequate staffing, lack of progress in commissioning, and the detrimental impact of central policy on specialist services. Conclusions There are continued disparities in specialist service provision. Without effective commissioning and adequate specialist team staffing, integrated diabetes care will remain unattainable in many regions, regardless of reconfigurations and alternative service models. [source] A Tubulin-Based Quantitative Assay for Taxol (Paclitaxel) with Enzyme Channeling SensingELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 8 2004Shin-ichiro Suye Abstract We report the development and characterization of a biosensor for sensitive and rapid determination of the anticancer agent Taxol (paclitaxel). The sensor is based on the interaction of Taxol with its receptor protein tubulin in conjunction with the separation-free immunosensor technique of enzyme channeling. The sensor system consisted of a three electrode electrochemical cell containing a graphite carbon electrode modified with glucose oxidase and tubulin as working electrode poised at +40,mV (vs. Ag/AgCl). Addition of Taxol, horseradish peroxidase labeled Taxol, glucose and potassium iodide to the cell generated a cathodic current response that was proportional to the concentration of Taxol in the range of 10 to 1,000,pM. [source] Biological and biochemical differences between in vitro- and in vivo-reared Exorista larvarumENTOMOLOGIA EXPERIMENTALIS ET APPLICATA, Issue 3 2006Maria Luisa Dindo Abstract Quantitative and qualitative parameters of Exorista larvarum (L.) (Diptera: Tachinidae) reared on two insect-material-free artificial media and in the factitious host Galleria mellonella L. (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) were compared. Significantly higher puparial yields and weights were obtained in both a milk-based and a veal homogenate-based medium than in the factitious host. Longevity and parasitization rates were not different between the in vitro- and in vivo-reared flies. Despite the greater puparial weight of the veal medium-reared E. larvarum females, the number of eggs laid by these females on host larvae was not higher than that of females reared under the other two rearing conditions. Moreover, in a complementary experiment, with homogeneous puparial weights of milk medium- and host-reared females, the former oviposited fewer eggs. Hence, puparial weight alone is not a reliable quality parameter for E. larvarum reared on artificial media. Lower amino acid content, with a deficiency in aromatic amino acids and an excess in proline, was found for in vitro third instar parasitoid larvae reared on both media compared to the in vivo-reared ones. These results suggest a correlation between the amino acid deficiency and imbalance of medium-reared larvae and the lower number of eggs laid by the females obtained. [source] Diversity and abundance of freshwater Actinobacteria along environmental gradients in the brackish northern Baltic SeaENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 8 2009Karin Holmfeldt Summary Actinobacteria are highly abundant in pelagic freshwater habitats and also occur in estuarine environments such as the Baltic Sea. Because of gradients in salinity and other environmental variables estuaries offer natural systems for examining factors that determine Actinobacteria distribution. We studied abundance and community structure of Bacteria and Actinobacteria along two transects in the northern Baltic Sea. Quantitative (CARD-FISH) and qualitative (DGGE and clone libraries) analyses of community composition were compared with environmental parameters. Actinobacteria accounted for 22,27% of all bacteria and the abundance changed with temperature. Analysis of 549 actinobacterial 16S rRNA sequences from four clone libraries revealed a dominance of the freshwater clusters acI and acIV, and two new subclusters (acI-B scB-5 and acIV-E) were assigned. Whereas acI was present at all stations, occurrence of acII and acIV differed between stations and was related to dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and chlorophyll a (Chl a) respectively. The prevalence of the acI-A and acI-B subclusters changed in relation to total phosphorus (Tot-P) and Chl a respectively. Community structure of Bacteria and Actinobacteria differed between the river station and all other stations, responding to differences in DOC, Chl a and bacterial production. In contrast, the composition of active Actinobacteria (analysis based on reversely transcribed RNA) changed in relation to salinity and Tot-P. Our study suggests an important ecological role of Actinobacteria in the brackish northern Baltic Sea. It highlights the need to address dynamics at the cluster or subcluster phylogenetic levels to gain insights into the factors regulating distribution and composition of Actinobacteria in aquatic environments. [source] Quantitative, longitudinal profiling of the primate fecal microbiota reveals idiosyncratic, dynamic communitiesENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 3 2006Joy Wireman Summary We used slot blot hybridization, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), and flow cytometry microarrays to quantify specific 16S rDNAs in weekly fecal specimens from four monkeys housed in a research vivarium for periods ranging from five to 8 months. Even in these uniformly housed and fed animals the gut microbiota is idiosyncratic, very dynamic on short timescales, and shows significant positive and negative correlations among some bacteria as well as responses to heavy metal exposure. The relative quantification (fmol targets per total fmol bacterial 16S rDNA) afforded by flow cytometry microarrays agreed well with the absolute quantification (nanogram of target DNA per nanogram of fecal DNA) afforded by slot blots and qPCR. We also noted strengths and weaknesses in inter-method comparisons for DNA-based quantification of these complex bacterial communities. [source] Filial Piety, Modernization, and the Challenges of Raising Children for Chinese Immigrants: Quantitative and Qualitative EvidenceETHOS, Issue 3 2004ELI LIEBER This study examines Chinese immigrant parents' perceptions of filial piety. The concept of filial piety is introduced and we discuss the impacts of modernization and immigration experience on the challenges faced by contemporary Chinese immigrants as they reconcile traditional values with the demands of sociohistorical change and child rearing in the United States. Factor analysis of a commonly applied scale demonstrates multiple aspects of filial piety and reflects modifications from traditional views. Interview results point to aspects of filial piety not fully represented in the quantitative scale and expose specific challenges in child rearing related to filial values. These findings suggest the evolution of expectations and strategies related to a cultural adaptation of filial piety. One key demand is for strategies consistent with parental values while maintaining respect for children's unique point of view. The conclusions focus on the development of approaches to understanding the evolving conceptualization and meaning of filial piety for contemporary immigrant Chinese. [source] User satisfaction with services in a randomised controlled trial of adolescent anorexia nervosaEUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW, Issue 5 2009Peter Roots Abstract Background User satisfaction is a neglected outcome in adolescent anorexia nervosa especially since the relative effectiveness of different treatments is unclear. It may also affect clinical outcome. Aims To assess young person's and parents' satisfaction with CAMHS outpatient, specialist outpatient and inpatient treatment received in a large randomised controlled trial. Method Quantitative and qualitative analysis of questionnaire data from 215 young people and their parents followed by focus groups to further explore emerging themes. Results High levels of satisfaction were reported, more amongst parents than young people and with specialist services. Both young people and carers strongly valued clinical relationships that involved being listened to and understood. They valued the expertise of specialist rather than generic CAMHS services. There were polarised views on the influence of other young people in inpatient units. Parents in particular valued support for themselves, both from professionals and other parents and felt this, and sibling support was lacking. Conclusions All comprehensive CAMH services are able to provide the good generic psychotherapeutic skills that parents and young people value so highly. However, generic CAMHS struggle to provide the demanded level of expertise and more specialised individual and family therapeutic interventions. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association. [source] Quantitative and qualitative methods in UK health research: then, now and . . . ?EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CANCER CARE, Issue 3 2002K. Mcpherson phd Quantitative and qualitative methods in UK health research: then, now and . . . ? This paper examines the current status of qualitative and quantitative research in the context of UK (public) health research in cancer. It is proposed that barren competition between qualitative and quantitative methods is inevitable, but that effective synergy between them continues to be essential to research excellence. The perceived methodological utility, with respect to understanding residual uncertainties, can account for the status accorded various research techniques and these will help to explain shifts witnessed in recent years and contribute towards an understanding of what can be realistically expected in terms of future progress. It is argued that the methodological debate, though familiar to many, is worthy of rearticulation in the context of cancer research where the psychosocial aspects of living with a cancer and the related complexity of providing appropriate cancer care are being addressed across Europe, as evidenced in recent directions in policy and research. [source] Quantitative, phenotypic, and functional evaluation of basophils in myelodysplastic syndromesEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF CLINICAL INVESTIGATION, Issue 10 2001W. Füreder Background The myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of clonal haematological disorders characterized by cytopenia(s), reduced differentiation-capacity of myeloid cells, and impaired leukocyte function. However, little is known so far about basophil granulocytes in MDS. Design We have compared the numbers, phenotype and function of basophils in MDS patients with those in healthy subjects. A total numer of 23 patients with MDS (refractory anaemia, n = 8; refractory anaemia with ringsideroblasts, n = 7; refractory anaemia with excess of blasts/refractory anaemia with excess of blasts in transformation, n = 8) and 20 healthy donors were included. Results The numbers of blood basophils in MDS patients (34·6 ± 62·9 ,L,1) was lower compared to healthy controls (58·6 ± 64·9 ,L,1). Correspondingly, whole blood histamine levels were lower in MDS patients (MDS 34·1 ± 29·1 ng mL,1 vs. normal donors 72·0 ± 36·9 ng mL,1). Like ,normal' basophils, basophils in MDS expressed interleukin-3 receptor , (CD123), E-NPP3 (CD203c), CR1 (CD35), CR3 (CD11b), CR4 (CD11c), membrane co-factor protein (CD46), decay-accelerating factor (CD55) and membrane attack complex inhibitory factor (CD59), as well as receptors for C3a, C5a (CD88), and IgE. Recombinant human (rh) C5a and anti-IgE induced significant release of histamine from basophils in both groups of donors without significant differences between MDS and healthy controls. Conclusions The absolute numbers of basophils in MDS patients are lower than in normal donors. However, basophils in MDS do not differ from their ,normal counterparts' in terms of complement receptor expression, IgE-receptor expression, or functional responses to respective ligands. [source] Paradoxical effects of prodynorphin gene deletion on basal and cocaine-evoked dopaminergic neurotransmission in the nucleus accumbensEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF NEUROSCIENCE, Issue 1 2006V. I. Chefer Abstract Quantitative and conventional microdialysis were used to investigate the effects of constitutive deletion of the prodynorphin gene on basal dopamine (DA) dynamics in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) and the responsiveness of DA neurons to an acute cocaine challenge. Saline- and cocaine-evoked locomotor activity were also assessed. Quantitative microdialysis revealed that basal extracellular DA levels were decreased, while the DA extraction fraction, an indirect measure of DA uptake, was unchanged in dynorphin (DYN) knockout (KO) mice. The ability of cocaine to increase NAc DA levels was reduced in KO. Similarly, cocaine-evoked locomotor activity was decreased in KO. The selective kappa opioid receptor agonist U-69593 decreased NAc dialysate DA levels in wildtype mice and this effect was enhanced in KO. Administration of the selective kappa opioid receptor (KOPr) antagonist nor-binaltorphimine to KO mice attenuated the decrease in cocaine-induced DA levels. However, it was ineffective in altering the decreased locomotor response to cocaine. These studies demonstrate that constitutive deletion of prodynorphin is associated with a reduction of extracellular NAc DA levels and a decreased responsiveness to acute cocaine. Data regarding the effects of U-69593 and nor-binaltorphimine in KO suggest that the kappa opioid receptor is up-regulated as a consequence of prodynorphin gene deletion and that this adaptation underlies the decrease in basal DA dynamics and cocaine-evoked DA levels observed in DYN KO mice. These findings suggest that the phenotype of DYN KO mice is not solely due to loss of endogenous opioid peptide but also reflects developmental compensations that occur at the level of the opioid receptor. [source] Biofilms in chronic bacterial prostatitis (NIH-II) and in prostatic calcificationsFEMS IMMUNOLOGY & MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 3 2010Sandra Mazzoli Abstract The prevalence of inflammatory conditions of the prostate gland is increasing. In Italy, there is a high incidence of prostatitis (13.3%), also accompanied by prostatic calcifications. Cat NIH-II chronic bacterial prostatitis (CBPs) are the most frequent. Their aetiology theoretically involves the whole range of bacterial species that are able to form biofilms and infect prostate cells. The aim of our study was to isolate potential biofilm-producing bacteria from CBP patients, to evaluate their ability to produce in vitro biofilms, and to characterize intraprostatic bacteria and prostatic calcifications using scanning electron microscopy. The 150 clinical bacterial strains isolated from chronic prostatitis NIH-II patients were: 50 Enterococcus faecalis; 50 Staphylococcus spp.; 30 Escherichia coli; 20 gram-negative miscellanea. Quantitative assay of biofilm production and adhesion was performed according to the classic Christensen microwell assay. Isolates were classified as nonproducers, weak, moderate or strong producers. The majority of E. coli, gram-negative bacteria, Staphylococci and Enterococci strains were strong or medium producers: 63,30%, 75,15%, 46,36%, and 58,14%, respectively. Prostatic calcifications consisted of bacteria-like forms similar to the species isolated from biological materials and calcifications of patients. Our study proves, for the first time, that bacterial strains able to produce biofilms consistently are present in CBP. Additionally, prostatic calcifications are biofilm-related. [source] Temporary Work in the Public Services: Implications for Equal OpportunitiesGENDER, WORK & ORGANISATION, Issue 4 2003Hazel M. Conley This article examines the impact of the growing number of temporary employment contracts in the public sector on equal opportunity theory, policy and practice. Quantitative and qualitative data from two case study local authorities are utilized to examine the mechanisms by which temporary work becomes an equal opportunities issue. A strong association between part-time work and temporary employment status is demonstrated as an important aspect of the gendered nature of temporary work. Links between ethnicity and temporary work are less clear but are based upon the insecurity of targeted funding for teachers and the under-valuation of the skills of the workers concerned. The data indicate that temporary workers are largely excluded from equal opportunity policy and practice, bringing into question a concept of equality that can permit less favourable treatment for certain groups of workers. It is argued that public sector restructuring, particularly concerning decentralization and the quest for flexibility, has facilitated the differential treatment of employees, thereby fundamentally eroding the basis of equal opportunity policy and practice. [source] Quantitative Image Analysis in DarmstadtIMAGING & MICROSCOPY (ELECTRONIC), Issue 3 2007Konrad Sandau Prof. Dr. The 14th workshop "Quantitative Image Analysis" has been held at the University of Applied Sciences in Darmstadt on 15 June 2007. Image Analysis works on complex images as 3D-images, massive mosaics and video sequences. [source] Workshop 1: Quantitative and multi-colour flow cytometryIMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2004Article first published online: 26 NOV 200 No abstract is available for this article. [source] Injured Workers' Underreporting in the Health Care Industry: An Analysis Using Quantitative, Qualitative, and Observational DataINDUSTRIAL RELATIONS, Issue 1 2010MONICA GALIZZI Underreporting of occupational injuries was examined in four health care facilities using quantitative, qualitative, and observational data. Occupational Safety and Health Administration logs accounted for only one-third of the workers' compensation records; 45 percent of injured workers followed by survey had workers' compensation claims. Workers reported 63 percent of serious occupational injuries. Underreporting is explained by time pressure and workers' doubts about eligibility, reputation, income loss, and career prospects. Though aware of underreporting, managers subtly believe in workers' moral hazard behaviors. [source] Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of neuromotor behaviour in children with a specific speech and language disorderINFANT AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT, Issue 1 2002Michele Noterdaeme Abstract Several studies have described problems in a wide area of motor functions in language impaired children. The purpose of this study was to identify the nature of the motor deficits in two subgroups of language impaired children. A standard neurological examination was performed on 18 children with an expressive language disorder and 21 children with a receptive language disorder. The motor performance of the language disordered children was compared with the motor performance of 23 normal children. The standard neurological examination allowed for a qualitative and quantitative assessment of five specific neurological subsystems. Handedness was determined for all children. The language impaired children had more motor problems than the control children on most neurological subsystems. There were few statistically significant differences between the two groups of language impaired children. An excess in left-handedness was established in the group of children with a receptive language disorder. There was a co-occurrence of verbal and non-verbal deficits in language impaired children. As these motor problems put an additional burden on the development of language impaired children, they should be diagnosed as early as possible. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Skin moisturization by hydrogenated polyisobutene,Quantitative and visual evaluationINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 1 2010N. Dayan J. Cosmet. Sci., 60, 15,24 (January/February 2009) Synopsis Hydrogenated polyisobutene (HP) is used in topically applied cosmetic/personal care formulations as an emollient that leaves a pleasing skin feel when applied, and rubbed in after application. This effect, although distinguishable to the user, is difficult to define and quantify. Recognizing that some of the physical properties of HP such as film formation and wear resistance may contribute, in certain mechanisms, to skin moisturization, we designed a short-term pilot study to follow changes in skin moisturization. HP's incorporation into an o/w emulsion at 8% yielded increased viscosity and reduced emulsion droplet size as compared to the emollient ester CCT (capric/caprylic triglyceride) or a control formulation. Quantitative data indicate that application of the o/w emulsion formulation containing either HP or CCT significantly elevated skin moisture content and thus reduced transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by a maximal ,33% against the control formulation within 3 h and maintained this up to 6 h. Visual observation of skin treated with the HP-containing formulation showed fine texture and clear contrast as compared to the control or the CCT formulation, confirming this effect. As a result of increased hydration, skin conductivity, as measured in terms of corneometer values, was also elevated significantly by about tenfold as early as 20 min after HP or CCT application and was maintained throughout the test period. Throughout the test period the HP formulation was 5,10% more effective than the CCT formulation both in reduction of TEWL as well as in increased skin conductivity. Thus, compared to the emollient ester (CCT), HP showed a unique capability for long-lasting effect in retaining moisture and improving skin texture. [source] Maximizing Clinical Research Participation in Vulnerable Older Persons: Identification of Barriers and MotivatorsJOURNAL OF AMERICAN GERIATRICS SOCIETY, Issue 8 2008Edward R. Marcantonio MD OBJECTIVES: To identify barriers and motivators to participation in long-term clinical research by high-risk elderly people and to develop procedures to maximize recruitment and retention. DESIGN: Quantitative and qualitative survey. SETTING: Academic primary care medicine and pre-anesthesia testing clinics. PARTICIPANTS: Fifty patients aged 70 and older, including 25 medical patients at high risk of hospitalization and 25 patients with planned major surgery. MEASUREMENTS: Fifteen- to 20-minute interviews involved open- and closed-ended questions guided by an in-depth script. Two planned study protocols were presented to each participant. Both involved serial neuropsychological assessments, blood testing, and magnetic resonance brain imaging (MRI); one added lumbar puncture (LP). Participants were asked whether they would be willing to participate in these protocols, rated barriers and incentives to participation, and were probed with open-ended questions. RESULTS: Of 50 participants (average age 78, 44% male, 40% nonwhite), 32 (64%) expressed willingness to participate in the LP-containing protocol, with LP cited as the strongest disincentive. Thirty-eight (76%) expressed willingness to participate in the protocol without LP, with phlebotomy and long interviews cited as the strongest disincentives. Altruism was a strong motivator for participation, whereas transportation was a major barrier. Study visits at home, flexible appointment times, assessments shorter than 75 minutes, and providing transportation and free parking were strategies developed to maximize study participation. CONCLUSION: Vulnerable elderly people expressed a high rate of willingness to participate in an 18-month prospective study. Participants identified incentives and barriers that enabled investigators to develop procedures to maximize recruitment and retention. [source] Synchrotron X-ray reflectivity studies of nanoporous organosilicate thin films with low dielectric constantsJOURNAL OF APPLIED CRYSTALLOGRAPHY, Issue 2007Weontae Oh Quantitative, non-destructive X-ray reflectivity analysis using synchrotron radiation sources was successfully performed on nanoporous dielectric thin films prepared by thermal processing of blend films of a thermally curable polymethylsilsesquioxane dielectric precursor and a thermally labile triethoxysilyl-terminated six-arm poly(,-caprolactone) porogen in various compositions. In addition, thermogravimetric analysis and transmission electron microscopy analysis were carried out. These measurements provided important structural information about the nanoporous films. The thermal process used in this study was found to cause the porogen molecules to undergo efficiently sacrificial thermal degradation, generating closed, spherical nanopores in the dielectric film. The resultant nanoporous films exhibited a homogeneous, well defined structure with a thin skin layer and low surface roughness. In particular, no skin layer was formed in the porous film imprinted using a porogen loading of 30,wt%. The film porosities ranged from 0 to 33.8% over the porogen loading range of 0,30,wt%. [source] Secretion of cortisol and aldosterone as a vulnerable target for adrenal endocrine disruption , screening of 30 selected chemicals in the human H295R cell modelJOURNAL OF APPLIED TOXICOLOGY, Issue 8 2008Erik Ullerås Abstract The adrenal gland is a vulnerable target for toxic insult. Disruption of adrenal steroidogenesis and hormone secretion may cause serious effects on human health. A human in vitro model is needed to predict effects, and elucidate mechanisms of endocrine disruption and adrenal toxicity. The human adrenocortical cell line H295R has been used to screen for effects on sex hormones. Here, we have analyzed the effect of 30 potential endocrine disrupting chemicals on the secretion of cortisol and aldosterone from the H295R cells, using specific ELISA assays. The effect of chemicals was analyzed for basal and forskolin- or angiotensin II-stimulated hormone secretion. The chemicals were tested at the highest concentration where they displayed no evident unspecific cytotoxicity. Quantitative and qualitative differences in effects on hormone secretion were demonstrated for the various chemicals. A subset of the chemicals displayed different effects on cortisol and aldosterone secretion, and in some cases the effects were different between basal and stimulated hormone secretion. Aminoglutethimide, prochloraz, ketoconazole, 6-hydroxyflavone, imazalil and etomidate had the most marked inhibitory effects on cortisol (with or without forskolin) and ketoconazole, 6-hydroxyflavone, imazalil and etomidate had the most marked effects on aldosterone (with or without angiotensin II). The results are discussed in terms of known effects, structural similarity and possible mechanisms. We have shown that adrenal steroidogenesis is a vulnerable target for toxic insult and that the H295R assay is a useful in vitro model for screening purposes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Enhanced Chondrogenesis and Wnt Signaling in PTH-Treated Fractures,JOURNAL OF BONE AND MINERAL RESEARCH, Issue 12 2007Sanjeev Kakar Abstract Studies have shown that systemic PTH treatment enhanced the rate of bone repair in rodent models. However, the mechanisms through which PTH affects bone repair have not been elucidated. In these studies we show that PTH primarily enhanced the earliest stages of endochondral bone repair by increasing chondrocyte recruitment and rate of differentiation. In coordination with these cellular events, we observed an increased level of canonical Wnt-signaling in PTH-treated bones at multiple time-points across the time-course of fracture repair, supporting the conclusion that PTH responses are at least in part mediated through Wnt signaling. Introduction: Since FDA approval of PTH [PTH(1,34); Forteo] as a treatment for osteoporosis, there has been interest in its use in other musculoskeletal conditions. Fracture repair is one area in which PTH may have a significant clinical impact. Multiple animal studies have shown that systemic PTH treatment of healing fractures increased both callus volume and return of mechanical competence in models of fracture healing. Whereas the potential for PTH has been established, the mechanism(s) by which PTH produces these effects remain elusive. Materials and Methods: Closed femoral fractures were generated in 8-wk-old male C57Bl/6 mice followed by daily systemic injections of either saline (control) or 30 ,g/kg PTH(1,34) for 14 days after fracture. Bones were harvested at days 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 14, 21, and 28 after fracture and analyzed at the tissue level by radiography and histomorphometry and at the molecular and biochemical levels level by RNase protection assay (RPA), real-time PCR, and Western blot analysis. Results: Quantitative ,CT analysis showed that PTH treatment induced a larger callus cross-sectional area, length, and total volume compared with controls. Molecular analysis of the expression of extracellular matrix genes associated with chondrogenesis and osteogenesis showed that PTH treated fractures displayed a 3-fold greater increase in chondrogenesis relative to osteogenesis over the course of the repair process. In addition, chondrocyte hypertrophy occurred earlier in the PTH-treated callus tissues. Analysis of the expression of potential mediators of PTH actions showed that PTH treatment significantly induced the expression of Wnts 4, 5a, 5b, and 10b and increased levels of unphosphorylated, nuclear localized ,-catenin protein, a central feature of canonical Wnt signaling. Conclusions: These results showed that the PTH-mediated enhancement of fracture repair is primarily associated with an amplification of chondrocyte recruitment and maturation in the early fracture callus. Associated with these cellular effects, we observed an increase in canonical Wnt signaling supporting the conclusion that PTH effects on bone repair are mediated at least in part through the activation of Wnt-signaling pathways. [source] Empirical Intersections in Communication Research: Replication, Multiple Quantitative Methods, and Bridging the Quantitative,Qualitative DivideJOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION, Issue 4 2008William L. Benoit First page of article [source] A Longitudinal study of mental health consumer/survivor initiatives: Part 4,Benefits beyond the self?JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY, Issue 3 2006A quantitative, impacts, qualitative study of system-level activities The purpose of this article is to report on the system-level findings of a longitudinal study of four mental health consumerñrun self-help organizations. Quantitative and qualitative data revealed that staff and members of the four Consumer/Survivor Initiatives (CSIs) participated actively in system-level activities, including community planning, public education, advocacy, and action research. The qualitative data revealed a number of perceived system-level outcomes related to these activities: (1) changes in perceptions (changed perceptions of the public and mental health professionals about mental health or mental illness, the lived experience of consumer/survivors, the legitimacy of their opinions, and the perceived value of CSIs) and (2) concrete changes (tangible changes in service delivery practice, service planning, public policy, or funding allocations). These findings are discussed in the context of previous work on system-level activities and impacts of consumer/survivor organizations. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source] Validation of Tool Mark Comparisons Obtained Using a Quantitative, Comparative, Statistical AlgorithmJOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES, Issue 4 2010L. Scott Chumbley Ph.D. Abstract:, A statistical analysis and computational algorithm for comparing pairs of tool marks via profilometry data is described. Empirical validation of the method is established through experiments based on tool marks made at selected fixed angles from 50 sequentially manufactured screwdriver tips. Results obtained from three different comparison scenarios are presented and are in agreement with experiential knowledge possessed by practicing examiners. Further comparisons between scores produced by the algorithm and visual assessments of the same tool mark pairs by professional tool mark examiners in a blind study in general show good agreement between the algorithm and human experts. In specific instances where the algorithm had difficulty in assessing a particular comparison pair, results obtained during the collaborative study with professional examiners suggest ways in which algorithm performance may be improved. It is concluded that the addition of contextual information when inputting data into the algorithm should result in better performance. [source] Electron microscopic findings in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Is there a difference between hepatosteatosis and steatohepatitis?JOURNAL OF GASTROENTEROLOGY AND HEPATOLOGY, Issue 3 2010Emel Ahishali Abstract Background and Aims:, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease has long been accepted as benign; however, recent evidence suggests that the disease may progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, although the natural course of the disease is still unclear. This study was designed to comparatively evaluate electron microscopic features of non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Methods:, Quantitative and semi-quantitative ultrastructural evaluations were performed on liver biopsies from 23 patients, 10 with NAFL and 13 with NASH. Results:, No statistically significant difference was noted between NAFL and NASH patients in ultrastructural features of hepatocytes including megamitochondria, intramitochondrial crystalline inclusions, mitochondrial matrix granules, foamy cytoplasmic appearance, electron-lucent and glycogen-containing nuclear regions, lipofuscin granules, or an increased frequency of vesicles containing electron-dense material in peribiliary Golgi zone; however, the mitochondrial diameter was significantly higher in the NASH patients. Intercellular distance and microvilli between hepatocytes, collagen and electron-dense material accumulation in the space of Disse, electron-dense material accumulation and microvillus density in bile canaliculi did not differ significantly between the groups. Conclusions:, Our data show that, although NAFL and NASH can be distinguished by their distinct light microscopic features, ultrastructural characteristics are similar, which suggests that NAFL may also have the potential to progress to fibrosis and cirrhosis like NASH. [source] The Role of the Physical Environment in Supporting Organizational CreativityJOURNAL OF INTERIOR DESIGN, Issue 1-2 2003Supaporn Vithayathawornwong M.S. ABSTRACT Creativity has been underscored as a key factor to organizational adaptability and competitiveness in today's rapidly changing business environment. Designing as well as managing work environments that facilitate creativity have therefore received growing attention, resulting in a multitude of research examining the social-psychological work environment. Few studies, however, have focused on the contribution of the physical work environment to supporting creativity in the workplace. This study focuses on the role of the physical environment in supporting creativity in organizations by identifying specific physical features and attributes of the work environment perceived to promote or inhibit creativity. The research design compares four organizations publicly acclaimed for their innovative social-psychological work environments, but which are distinctly different in terms of the physical work environment. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected by means of survey questionnaires (N = 130). Results indicate that the physical work environment exerts indirect influence on creativity by contributing to two significant social-psychological conditions that are conducive to creativity, namely dynamism and freedom. The study specifies attributes of the physical work environment perceived to be positively and negatively associated with both of these conditions. [source] Coronary MR angiography at 3T during diastole and systoleJOURNAL OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING, Issue 4 2007Ahmed M. Gharib MD Abstract Purpose To investigate the impact of end-systolic imaging on quality of right coronary magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in comparison to diastolic and to study the effect of RR interval variability on image quality. Materials and Methods The right coronary artery (RCA) of 10 normal volunteers was imaged at 3T using parallel imaging (sensitivity encoding [SENSE]). Navigator-gated three-dimensional (3D) gradient echo was used three times: 1) end-systolic short acquisition (SS): 35-msec window; 2) diastolic short (DS): middiastolic acquisition using 35-msec window; and 3) diastolic long (DL): 75-msec diastolic acquisition window. Vectorcardiogram (VCG) data was used to analyze RR variability. Vessel sharpness, length, and diameter were compared to each other and correlated with RR variability. Blinded qualitative image scores of the images were compared. Results Quantitative and qualitative parameters were not significantly different and showed no significant correlation with RR variability. Conclusion Imaging the RCA at 3T during the end-systolic rest period using SENSE is possible without significant detrimental effect on image quality. Breaking away from the standard of imaging only during diastole can potentially improve image quality in tachycardic patients or used for simultaneous imaging during both periods in a single scan. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007;26:921,926. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Monitoring the response to antiretroviral therapy in HIV-1 group O infected patients using two new RT-PCR assaysJOURNAL OF MEDICAL VIROLOGY, Issue 3 2001Carmen de Mendoza Abstract Failure to recognise infection caused by human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) group O variants has been described using both serological and genetic procedures. Moreover, monitoring the response to antiretroviral therapy is a difficult task in patients infected with HIV-1 group O since commercial tests are not available so far for the quantitation of this virus. In this study, the virological response to antiretroviral therapy were assessed in five HIV-1 group O-infected patients living in Spain by using two new and different RT-PCR methods (MUPROVAMA and LCx). Twenty-four plasma samples belonging to these five patients were selected. As reference, p24 antigenaemia levels and CD4+ cell counts were used. All samples yielded positive viral load values using MUPROVAMA (range: 138 to 595,500 HIV-RNA copies/ml) and 23 of 24 using LCx (range: <,178 to 98,356 HIV-RNA copies/ml). Overall, the results obtained using both assays showed a good correlation among themselves, and in respect to p24 antigenaemia and CD4+ cell counts. However, the values provided by LCx were significantly lower (0.33 logs on average) than those provided by MUPROVAMA. In conclusion, both the highly sensitive MUPROVAMA and LCx Quantitative assays might represent an useful tool for guiding the decision on when start treatment and for monitoring the response to antiretroviral therapy in HIV-1 group O-infected patients. J. Med. Virol. 64:217,222, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||