Home About us Contact
|
Home About us Contact | ||
|
|
||
Reliable Data (reliable + data)
Selected AbstractsConference Report: Environmental Law and Technology Can Evolve, but Facts Still Need the Support of Reliable DataGROUND WATER, Issue 1 2008Thad Plumley No abstract is available for this article. [source] Quantitative high-pressure pair distribution function analysisJOURNAL OF SYNCHROTRON RADIATION, Issue 5 2005John B. Parise The collection of scattering data at high pressure and temperature is now relatively straightforward thanks to developments at high-brightness synchrotron radiation facilities. Reliable data from powders, that are suitable for structure determination and Rietveld refinement, are routinely collected up to about 30,GPa in either a large-volume high-pressure apparatus or diamond anvil cell. In those cases where the total elastic scattering is of interest, as it is in the case of nano-crystalline and glassy materials, technical developments, including the use of focused high-energy X-rays (>80,keV), are advantageous. Recently completed experiments on nano-crystalline materials at the 1-ID beamline at the Advanced Photon Source suggest that quantitative data, suitable for pair distribution function analysis, can be obtained. [source] Compaction of Powders due to Vibrations and ShocksPARTICLE & PARTICLE SYSTEMS CHARACTERIZATION, Issue 4 2004Roman Linemann Abstract Bulk density and compactibility of bulk materials play an important role in process engineering. Reliable data are required for dimensioning plants and for supplying load data for static design. Furthermore, the data are useful for the production of sintered materials or catalyst beds and the characterization of bulk materials. While compression by normal stress can be reproduced and mathematically described, the influence of shocks and vibrations remains very poorly understood. All known standard methods for bulk material compression under vibrations and shocks are based on individual equipment. The parameters of shocks or vibrations, however, have not yet been defined. Therefore, an investigation was carried out to examine the influence of uniaxial stress and defined shocks and vibrations on bulk material compression. The shocks and vibrations were controlled by an electrodynamic shaker. The first results for highly disperse Kaolin powders are presented. Using the chosen parameters, the random mode and the uniaxial compression cause the highest increase in density. High compression rates can also be obtained by shocks. With sinusoidal vibrations much lower bulk densities can be reached. [source] Formaldehyde-releasers: Relationship to formaldehyde contact allergy, Part 2: Metalworking fluids and remainderCONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 3 2010Anton De Groot We have reviewed formaldehyde-releasers used in metalworking fluids (MWFs) in this and a previous part of a two-part article. These biocides do not appear to be frequent or important sensitizers. Even in highly selected patient groups of metalworkers, mean prevalence rates of sensitivity are low: 0.2% for Tris(hydroxymethyl)nitromethane, 1.6% for tris(N -hydroxyethyl)hexahydrotriazine, 1.9% for Bioban® P-1487 and Bioban® CS-1246, and 2.8% for Bioban® CS-1135. In the case of the Biobans, many reactions may have been irritant. Only N,N,-methylenebis(5-methyloxazolidine) has a fairly high mean score of 4.0% in metalworkers. With the exception of Bioban® P-1487, there is a clear relationship between positive patch test reactions to the releasers and formaldehyde sensitivity: 40,70% of reactions to releasers occur in patients sensitive to formaldehyde and may therefore be caused by formaldehyde allergy. There is a lack of reliable data on the clinical relevance of contact allergy to the formaldehyde releasers in MWF. In most studies, no data on relevance were provided and in those that did, relevance was often found for a (very small) minority of the reactions only. Also discussed here are the formaldehyde-releasers MDM hydantoin, methenamine, N -methylolchloracetamide, paraformaldehyde, and Preventol® D2. [source] An experimental investigation of water level effects on the dynamic behaviour of a large arch damEARTHQUAKE ENGINEERING AND STRUCTURAL DYNAMICS, Issue 8 2001Jean Proulx Abstract The need for full-scale dynamic tests, which are recognized as the most reliable method to evaluate a structure's vibration properties, is increasing as new analysis techniques are developed that take into account the complex interaction phenomenons that occur in dam,reservoir,foundation systems. They are extremely useful to obtain reliable data for the calibration of newly developed numerical methods. The Earthquake Engineering and Structural Dynamics Research Center (CRGP) at the University of Sherbrooke has been developing and applying dynamic testing methods for large structures in the past 10 years. This paper presents the experimental evaluation of the effects of the varying water level on the dynamic response of the 180 m Emosson arch dam in Switzerland. Repeated forced-vibration tests were carried out on the dam during four different periods of the reservoir's filling cycle during a one-year span. Acceleration and hydrodynamic pressure frequency responses were obtained at several locations while the dam was subjected to horizontal harmonic loading. The variation of the resonant frequencies as a function of the reservoir level is investigated. A summary of the ongoing numerical correlation phase with a three-dimensional finite element model for the dam,reservoir,foundation system is also presented. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Monastic mortality: Durham Priory, 1395,15291ECONOMIC HISTORY REVIEW, Issue 4 2006JOHN HATCHER This article presents reliable data on the life expectancy of the monks of Durham Priory between 1395 and 1529. The number of years that monks survived in this northern monastery plunged precipitously in the second half of the fifteenth century before staging a partial recovery in the early sixteenth. The experience of Durham monks mirrors the scale, direction, and timing of the data already produced for the monks of Canterbury and Westminster. While the precise relationship between monastic mortality and that of the population at large remains difficult to determine, there can be no doubt that the symmetry that has been established between mortality in three monasteries located in different parts of the country has important implications for our understanding of the demographic history of late medieval England. [source] On the Association Between Valproate and Polycystic Ovary SyndromeEPILEPSIA, Issue 3 2001Pierre Genton Summary: Recent studies by Isojärvi et al. have raised the issue of an increased incidence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women with epilepsy treated with valproate (VPA) and have proposed replacement with lamotrigine (LTG). Polycystic ovaries (PCO) are a common finding, with a prevalence >20% in the general population, and are easily detected by pelvic or vaginal ultrasonography, whereas PCOS is comparatively rare: few women with PCO have fully developed PCOS, which includes hirsutism, acne, obesity, hypofertility, hyperandrogenemia, and menstrual disorders. From an extensive review of the current literature, it appears that there are no reliable data on the actual prevalence of PCOS in normal women and in women with epilepsy. The pathogenesis of PCO is multifactorial, including genetic predisposition and the intervention of environmental factors, among which weight gain and hyperinsulinism with insulin resistance may play a part. The roles of central (hypothalamic/pituitary), peripheral, and local ovarian factors are still debated. PCO and PCOS appear to be more frequent in women with epilepsy, but there are no reliable data showing a greater prevalence after VPA. The recent studies by Isojärvi et al. may have been biased by the retrospective selection of patients. To date, there is no reason to contraindicate the use of VPA in women with epilepsy. However, patients should be informed about the risk of weight gain and its consequences. [source] Broadbill swordfish: status of established fisheries and lessons for developing fisheriesFISH AND FISHERIES, Issue 4 2000P. Ward Guidelines for the assessment and management of developing swordfish fisheries are derived through an examination of five swordfish fisheries. As they develop, swordfish fisheries may be inclined to local depletion around underwater features, such as seamounts and banks. Few nations have applied the precautionary approach in managing their developing swordfish fisheries. Without controls, swordfish fisheries expand geographically and fishing effort increases, often overshooting optimum levels. However, it is difficult to distinguish clear evidence of fishery collapse; modern longliners harvest widely distributed tuna and swordfish and they are able to relocate to distant areas or switch between target species in response to fluctuations in species abundance and price. Furthermore, the wide distribution of swordfish combined with year-round spawning and high growth rates amongst juveniles probably contribute to the apparent resilience of swordfish stocks to intensive harvesting. Over half the world's swordfish catch is taken as an incidental catch of longliners fishing for tuna. In several areas, such as the North Atlantic, catch quotas have sometimes caused tuna longline fishers to discard swordfish. Minimum size limits have also resulted in discarding of swordfish in tuna fisheries and in dedicated swordfish fisheries. In addition to weakening the effectiveness of those management measures, bycatch and discarding add to the complexities of managing swordfish fisheries and to uncertainties in assessing the stocks. Longliners that target swordfish often fish at high latitudes where interactions with marine wildlife, such as seabird, are generally more frequent than at low latitudes. Concern over incidental catches of marine wildlife and other species is becoming a driving force in the management of several swordfish fisheries. Fishery management organisations will need to implement management measures to protect non-target species and gather reliable data and information on the situation by placing observers on boats fishing for swordfish. [source] Snorkelling as a method for assessing spawning stock of Atlantic salmon, Salmo salarFISHERIES MANAGEMENT & ECOLOGY, Issue 3 2007P. ORELL Abstract, Reliability of underwater snorkel counts of adult Atlantic salmon, Salmo salar L., was analysed in the tributaries of the River Teno, close to the spawning period. In small (width 5,20 m) rivers, the replicated total counts of salmon were reasonably precise (CV = 5.4,8.5%), while in the medium-sized river (width 20,40 m) the precision of the counting method was considerably lower (CV = 15.3%). Low precision in a medium sized river was also observed in an experiment using marked live fish where the observation efficiency varied between 36.4% and 70.0%. In a small river, the detection efficiency of artificial fish silhouettes (test salmon) was almost perfect in pools (98%), but decreased in rapids (84%). Separate counts of males, females, grilse and large salmon were usually more variable than total counts, indicating that divers were more capable of locating a fish than properly identifying its sex and sea-age. The behaviour of adult salmon was favourable to conduct snorkel counts, as fish normally stayed still, or after hesitating, moved upstream (>95%of the cases) when encountering a diver. The high observation efficiency (>90%) and precision, favourable behaviour of salmon and congruence between snorkel counts and catch statistics in small rivers suggest that reliable data on Atlantic salmon spawning stock can be collected by snorkeling provided that the environmental conditions are suitable and the divers are experienced. [source] Culture-based fisheries in non-perennial reservoirs in Sri Lanka: production and relative performance of stocked speciesFISHERIES MANAGEMENT & ECOLOGY, Issue 4 2005W. M. H. K. WIJENAYAKE Abstract, In Sri Lanka, there is a great potential for the development of culture-based fisheries because of the availability of around 12 000 non-perennial reservoirs in the dry zone (<187 cm annual rainfall) of the island. These reservoirs fill during the north-east monsoonal period in October to December and almost completely dry up during August to October. As these non-perennial reservoirs are highly productive, hatchery-reared fish fingerlings can be stocked to develop culture-based fisheries during the water retention period of 7,9 months. The present study was conducted in 32 non-perennial reservoirs in five administrative districts in Sri Lanka. These reservoirs were stocked with fingerlings of Indian (catla Catla catla Hamilton and rohu Labeo rohita Hamilton) and Chinese (bighead carp Aristichthys nobilis Richardson) major carps, common carp Cyprinus carpio L., genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT) strain of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.) and post-larvae of giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii De Man, at three different species combinations and overall stocking densities (SD) ranging from 218 to 3902 fingerlings ha,1, during the 2002,2003 culture cycle. Of the 32 reservoirs stocked, reliable data on harvest were obtained from 25 reservoirs. Fish yield ranged from 53 to 1801 kg ha,1 and the yields of non-perennial reservoirs in southern region were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those in the northern region. Naturally-recruited snakehead species contributed the catches in northern reservoirs. Fish yield was curvilinearly related to reservoir area (P < 0.05), and a negative second order relationship was evident between SD and yield (P < 0.05). Chlorophyll- a and fish yield exhibited a positive second order relationship (P < 0.01). Bighead carp yield impacted positively on the total yield (P < 0.05), whereas snakehead yield impact was negative. Bighead carp, common carp and rohu appear suitable for poly-culture in non-perennial reservoirs. GIFT strain O. niloticus had the lowest specific growth rate among stocked species and freshwater prawn had a low return. [source] Addressing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Health Care: Using Federal Data to Support Local Programs to Eliminate DisparitiesHEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH, Issue 4p1 2006Thomas D. Sequist To reduce racial and ethnic disparities in health care, managers, policy makers, and researchers need valid and reliable data on the race and ethnicity of individuals and populations. The federal government is one of the most important sources of such data. In this paper we review the strengths and weaknesses of federal data that pertain to racial and ethnic disparities in health care. We describe recent developments that are likely to influence how these data can be used in the future and discuss how local programs could make use of these data. [source] PIV measurement and turbulence scale in turbulent combustionHEAT TRANSFER - ASIAN RESEARCH (FORMERLY HEAT TRANSFER-JAPANESE RESEARCH), Issue 7 2006Kazuhiro Yamamoto Abstract We have investigated turbulent combustion by PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry) technique. Comparing with LDV data, the validity of PIV measurements has been confirmed. Particularly, the conditions of sampling number and spatial resolution have been shown to yield reliable data using PIV. Based on the velocity fields in cold flow and combustion, the interaction between flame and flow has been discussed. It was observed that the flow field is changed by combustion and the turbulence is reduced. In order to determine statistical quantities such as mean velocity and RMS of velocity fluctuation, a sampling number of 1000 is needed. Moreover, the velocity correlation coefficient was evaluated to obtain the integral length scale of the flow. For both cold flow and combustion, the PIV estimated scale is very close to that of LDV based on the assumption of Taylor's hypothesis. As a result, the spatial resolution in this study is about 6 times smaller than the integral length scale. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res, 35(7): 501,512, 2006; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/htj.20129 [source] Improvement of the basic correlating equations and transition criteria of natural convection heat transferHEAT TRANSFER - ASIAN RESEARCH (FORMERLY HEAT TRANSFER-JAPANESE RESEARCH), Issue 4 2001Shi-Ming Yang Abstract In this paper, improvements in the basic physical laws of natural convection heat transfer were implemented in two major respects by incorporating recent research findings in this field. A preferred transition criterion was adopted in this paper to correlate all of the experimental data. Since transition correlations are primarily flow stability problems, the Grashof number, instead of the Rayleigh number, was found to be the preferred criterion. Furthermore, in the case of natural convection heat transfer from a horizontal cylinder, a series of experimental data in the high-Rayleigh-number regions recently became available. These data made it possible to establish new reliable correlations and also to test the validity of previous correlations. It is concluded that the previous correlation for a horizontal cylinder in high-Rayleigh-number regions was based on unreliable experimental results. The transition correlation for a horizontal cylinder occurred at much higher values of Rayleigh number than the previous recommendation. In the case of natural convection heat transfer from a vertical plate, more accurate property values for air under pressurized conditions are now available. This made it possible to replot the reliable data of Saunders. From this result and the experimental result of Warner and Arpaci, a new set of basic correlations in natural convection heat transfer for laminar, transitional, and turbulent regimes are recommended. These recommendations reflect a better understanding of the basic physical laws in the field of heat convection. © 2001 Scripta Technica, Heat Trans Asian Res, 30(4): 293,300, 2001 [source] Familial clustering of cancer at human papillomavirus-associated sites according to the Swedish Family-Cancer DatabaseINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CANCER, Issue 8 2008Shehnaz K. Hussain Abstract Familial aggregation of cervical cancer has been demonstrated previously, however aggregation of other human papillomavirus-associated anogenital, upper aerodigestive tract and skin cancers has not been fully characterized. The Swedish Family-Cancer Database, which contains reliable data on cancer incidence and nuclear family linkages for all residents of Sweden between 1958 and 2004, was used to calculate standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and 95% confidence intervals for offspring site-specific cancer risks according to site-specific cancer in sibling and parental probands. Offspring cancer risk was significantly increased when either a sibling or parent was affected at the same site for penile squamous cell carcinoma (SCC, SIR = 7.54), cervical adenocarcinoma (AC, SIR = 2.31), vulvar SCC (SIR = 2.27), skin SCC (SIR = 2.14), rectal AC (SIR = 1.86), in situ cervical SCC (SIR = 1.80), invasive cervical SCC (SIR = 1.77) and upper aerodigestive tract SCC (SIR = 1.57). Significant aggregation on the order of 2-fold between anogenital cancers at different sites or histologies was also observed. In situ cervical SCC risk in offspring was strongly influenced by siblings affected with oropharyngeal SCC (SIR = 3.17) and tonsillar SCC (SIR = 1.84). Familial skin SCC was largely unassociated with anogenital or upper aerodigestive tract cancer risk in offspring. These data suggest that common host factors exist among individuals affected with anogenital and upper aerodigestive tract cancers. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Use of image analysis techniques for objective quantification of the efficacy of different hair removal methodsINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF COSMETIC SCIENCE, Issue 2 2007S. Bielfeldt In the field of consumer-used cosmetics for hair removal and hair growth reduction, there is a need for improved quantitative methods to enable the evaluation of efficacy and claim support. Optimized study designs and investigated endpoints are lacking to compare the efficacy of standard methods, like shaving or plucking, with new methods and products, such as depilating instruments or hair-growth-reducing cosmetics. Non-invasive image analysis, using a high-performance microscope combined with an optimized image analysis tool, was investigated to assess hair growth. In one step, high-resolution macrophotographs of the legs of female volunteers after shaving and plucking with cold wax were compared to observe short-term hair regrowth. In a second step, images obtained after plucking with cold wax were taken over a long-term period to assess the time, after which depilated hairs reappeared on the skin surface. Using image analysis, parameters like hair length, hair width, and hair projection area were investigated. The projection area was found to be the parameter most independent of possible image artifacts such as irregularities in skin or low contrast due to hair color. Therefore, the hair projection area was the most appropriate parameter to determine the time of hair regrowth. This point of time is suitable to assess the efficacy of different hair removal methods or hair growth reduction treatments by comparing the endpoint after use of the hair removal method to be investigated to the endpoint after simple shaving. The closeness of hair removal and visible signs of skin irritation can be assessed as additional quantitative parameters from the same images. Discomfort and pain rating by the volunteers complete the set of parameters, which are required to benchmark a new hair removal method or hair-growth-reduction treatment. Image analysis combined with high-resolution imaging techniques is a powerful tool to objectively assess parameters like hair length, hair width, and projection area. To achieve reliable data and to reduce well known image-analysis artifacts, it was important to optimize the technical equipment for use on human skin and to improve image analysis by adaptation of the image-processing procedure to the different skin characteristics of individuals, like skin color, hair color, and skin structure. [source] Efficacy of chemical and botanical over-the-counter pediculicides available in Brazil, and off-label treatments, against head lice ex vivoINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2010André Asenov MD Background, There is a lack of reliable data on the efficacy of over-the-counter (OTC) pediculicides in Brazil. Methods, We performed ex vivo assays of eight marketed pediculicides: 1% permethrin (Kwell®, Clean Hair®, Keltrina®, Nedax®), 0.02% deltamethrin (Deltacid®, Pediderm®), and two "natural" products (Piolho e Lêndea®, Pilogenio®). We also tested 5% permethrin (Keltrina Plus®), traditional home remedies and an ivermectin-based product used in veterinary medicine. Head lice (49,52 per group) were immersed in the compound for 3 min and washed after 20 min to simulate the typical in vivo treatment protocol. Lice were examined for activity up to 24 h using stringent criteria for survival. Results, Of the permethrin containing products, highest mortality was observed with Kwell® and Clean Hair® (97.9 and 90.2% after 4 h). Keltrina®, Nedax®, Keltrina Plus®, and the two deltamethrin-based products showed only a low efficacy of <60% after 4 h. With exception of pure coconut oil (80% mortality after 4 h), home remedies showed a very low efficacy, and both marketed products killed few lice. The ivermectin-based product caused a mortality of 100% after 4 h. Conclusions, Most Brazilian OTC products did not show a satisfactory efficacy against head lice. Resistance may be present. Ivermectin and coconut oil are promising compounds for topical treatment. Laboratory-based tests should be used to assess resistance patterns and to identify formulations of the active ingredient that increase the efficacy. Standardized testing should be performed before a product is licensed for head lice treatment. [source] Cutaneous disorders in the "bairro Inhamudima" of Beira, MozambiqueINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 2007Kajal Chhaganlal Background, There are no reliable data on the prevalence of skin diseases in Mozambique. Aim, To address this issue and to apply the findings to the dermatology teaching program at the Universidade Católica de Moçambique. Methods, Medical students attempted to identify the most common skin disorders in the "bairro Inhamudima" of Beira, Mozambique by conducting a population survey. During a 3-month period, the students visited families in a slum area. Information on gender, age, human immunodeficiency virus status, cutaneous abnormalities, diagnosis, treatment, and clinical course was recorded. Results, Eleven per cent of the study population suffered from cutaneous disease. More than half the patients (57%) sought medical assistance, but 39% could not be diagnosed by the medical students. The most common disorder was scabies. Other problems included fungal infections, viral infections, allergies, and dermatitis with or without secondary bacterial infection. Conclusions, There is a major dermatologic need in the slum areas of Beira, Mozambique. The dermatology teaching program should pay particular attention to training in the diagnosis and management of infections and infestations. [source] The first Australian nurse practitioner census: A protocol to guide standardized collection of information about an emergent professional groupINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NURSING PRACTICE, Issue 5 2010Sandy Middleton RN PhD Middleton S, Gardner G, Gardner A, Della P, Gibb M, Millar L. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 517,524 The first Australian nurse practitioner census: A protocol to guide standardized collection of information about an emergent professional group Internationally, collection of reliable data on new and evolving health-care roles is crucial. We describe a protocol for design and administration of a national census of an emergent health-care role, namely nurse practitioners in Australia using databases held by regulatory authorities. A questionnaire was developed to obtain data on the role and scope of practice of Australian nurse practitioners. Our tool comprised five sections and included a total of 56 questions, using 28existing items from the National Nursing and Midwifery Labour Force Census and nine items recommended in the Nurse Practitioner Workforce Planning Minimum Data Set. Australian Nurse Registering Authorities (n = 6) distributed the survey on our behalf. This paper outlines our instrument and methods. The survey was administered to 238 authorized Australian nurse practitioners (85% response rate). Rigorous collection of standardized items will ensure health policy is informed by reliable and valid data. We will re-administer the survey 2 years following the first survey to measure change over time. [source] A comparison of training activities in the Austrian and German accommodation trade using the TrainingActivityDegreeINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TOURISM RESEARCH, Issue 1 2003G. Langer Abstract This article introduces the TrainingActivityDegree (TAD), a new method for the quantitative measurement of training activities, by presenting the empirical results from a practical application in which the training activities in the Austrian and German accommodation trade were compared. In the accommodation trade survey, a clear need for a method for acquiring reliable data of training activities in a fragmented branch such as the accommodation trade arose. Consequently the TAD index was developed. The practical application within an exploratory survey demonstrates its suitability for acquiring and comparing training participation, not only in the Austrian and German accommodation trade. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Japanese guidelines for prevention of perioperative infections in urological fieldINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 10 2007Tetsuro Matsumoto Abstract: For urologists, it is very important to master surgical indications and surgical techniques. On the other hand, the knowledge of the prevention of perioperative infections and the improvement of surgical techniques should always be considered. Although the prevention of perioperative infections in each surgical field is a very important issue, the evidence and the number of guidelines are limited. Among them, the preparation of guidelines has progressed, especially in gastrointestinal surgery. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) proposed guidelines for the prevention of surgical site infections, which have been used worldwide. In urology, the original guidelines were different from those of general surgery, due to many endourological procedures and urine exposure in the surgical field. The Japanese Society of UTI Cooperative Study Group has thus framed these guidelines supported by The Japanese Urological Association. The guidelines consist of the following nine techniques: open surgeries, laparoscopic surgeries, transurethral resection of bladder tumor, ureterorenoscope and transurethral lithotripsy, transurethral resection of the prostate, prostate biopsy, cystourethroscope, pediatric surgeries in the urological field, and extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy and febrile neutropenia. These are the first guidelines for the prevention of perioperative infections in the urological field in Japan. Although most of these guidelines were made using reliable evidence, there are parts without enough evidence. Therefore, if new reliable data is reported, it will be necessary for these guidelines to be revised in the future. [source] DNA damage response and cellular senescence in tissues of aging miceAGING CELL, Issue 3 2009Chunfang Wang Summary The impact of cellular senescence onto aging of organisms is not fully clear, not at least because of the scarcity of reliable data on the mere frequency of senescent cells in aging tissues. Activation of a DNA damage response including formation of DNA damage foci containing activated H2A.X (,-H2A.X) at either uncapped telomeres or persistent DNA strand breaks is the major trigger of cell senescence. Therefore, ,-H2A.X immunohistochemistry (IHC) was established by us as a reliable quantitative indicator of senescence in fibroblasts in vitro and in hepatocytes in vivo and the age dependency of DNA damage foci accumulation in ten organs of C57Bl6 mice was analysed over an age range from 12 to 42 months. There were significant increases with age in the frequency of foci-containing cells in lung, spleen, dermis, liver and gut epithelium. In liver, foci-positive cells were preferentially found in the centrilobular area, which is exposed to higher levels of oxidative stress. Foci formation in the intestine was restricted to the crypts. It was not associated with either apoptosis or hyperproliferation. That telomeres shortened with age in both crypt and villus enterocytes, but telomeres in the crypt epithelium were longer than those in villi at all ages were confirmed by us. Still, there was no more than random co-localization between ,-H2A.X foci and telomeres even in crypts from very old mice, indicating that senescence in the crypt enterocytes is telomere independent. The results suggest that stress-dependent cell senescence could play a causal role for aging of mice. [source] Toward an Information Tool for Integrated Product Policy: Requirements for Data and ComputationJOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL ECOLOGY, Issue 3 2006Reinout Heijungs Summary Integrated product policy, according to the European Union, requires reliable data on the impact of consumer products along their life cycles. We argue that this necessarily requires the development of an information tool for hybrid analysis, combining aspects of life-cycle assessment and input-output analysis. A number of requirements in the development of such a hybrid information tool are identified, mainly concerning data and computational structure. For the former, some important points of attention are discussed, whereas for the latter, operational formulas are developed. [source] Obstacles in large-scale epidemiological assessment of sensory impairments in a Dutch population with intellectual disabilitiesJOURNAL OF INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY RESEARCH, Issue 8 2004H. Evenhuis Abstract Background A population-based epidemiological study on visual and hearing impairment was planned in a random sample of 2100 clients, drawn from a base population of 9012 users of Dutch residential and day-care intellectual disability (ID) services with the whole range of IDs. Stratification was applied for age 50 years and over and Down syndrome. Visual and hearing functions were assessed according to a standardized protocol, in cooperation with regular ophthalmologists and regional audiological centres. Anticipated obstacles in sample collection, random inclusion, informed consent, expertise of investigators, time and costs were eliminated by a careful preparation. However, inclusion and participation were incomplete. Method In a descriptive retrospective design, we collected data from our study files on inclusion and participation as well as reasons for non-participation, to identify unanticipated obstacles for this kind of research. Results Consent was obtained for 1660 clients, and 1598 clients participated in the data collection (76% of intended sample of 2100). Inclusion and participation rates were especially lower in community-based care organizations, resulting in unintentional skewing of the sample towards more severe levels of ID. Complete and reliable data to diagnose visual impairment were obtained for 1358/1598 (85%) and to diagnose hearing impairment for 1237/1598 participants (77%). Unanticipated obstacles had to do with the quality of coordination within care organizations, with characteristics of screening methods, and with collaboration with the regular health care system. Assessments of visual function were more easy to organize than were those of hearing. Based on our current experience, practical recommendations are given for future multicentre research, especially in community-based settings. [source] The reliability of different formulae to predict creatinine clearanceJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 5 2003J. C. Verhave Abstract., Verhave JC, Baljé-Volkers CP, Hillege HL, de Zeeuw D, de Jong PE (University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen University, Institute of Drug Exploration, Groningen, the Netherlands). The reliability of different formulae to predict creatinine clearance. J Intern Med 2003; 253: 563,573. Objectives., Creatinine clearance (CCR) is a commonly used tool to measure glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in clinical practice. This tool requires collection of 24-h urine, which is quite bothersome. Several different formulae have been used to estimate GFR using plasma creatinine and other easy formulae to obtain biometrical data. We examined 10 formulae and compared them with actually measured CCR in a large sample of the general population. Design., Cross-sectional cohort study. Setting., University hospital outpatient clinic, a population based study. Subjects., A total of 8592 inhabitants of the city of Groningen, 28,75 years of age. The cohort is enriched for microalbuminuria. Results., In general, the formulae did not give an accurate estimation of CCR, particularly not in male and in obese subjects. Six formulae, including the Cockcroft,Gault gave a fairly good estimation of CCR in the overall population and in subgroups of specific gender, body mass index and age. All formulae however, gave an underestimation of the measured CCR in higher ranges of CCR and an overestimation in the lower ranges. Moreover, the age-related decline of CCR is hard to approximate with a formula. Conclusions., We conclude that formulae to estimate CCR in the general population, although giving a fairly good estimate of mean CCR, do not offer reliable data on CCR in the upper and lower ranges and do not adequately estimate the age,related decline in CCR. [source] Allergy to peanut oil , clinically relevant?JOURNAL OF THE EUROPEAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY & VENEREOLOGY, Issue 4 2007J Ring Abstract The increasing prevalence of food allergies (especially allergy to peanuts) has led to a discussion of how safe topical preparations containing peanut oil are with respect to allergy. The major allergens from peanuts are proteins that have been characterized at a molecular level and cloned. Clinical signs of peanut allergy symptoms can be observed on the skin (urticaria), or in the gastrointestinal and/or respiratory tract culminating in cardiovascular symptoms and anaphylactic reactions. In most cases, symptoms are elicited by oral uptake; rarely, a contact urticaria has been described. In vegetable oils, the contents of protein differ depending on the production process: crude oils contain approximately 100 times more proteins than refined oils. This has clear-cut implications for allergic individuals. Quantitative data are available regarding elicitation of symptoms in allergic individuals with a threshold dose of 0.1,1 mg peanut allergen in oral provocation tests. There are anecdotal reports of adverse reactions after topical use of peanut oils. In one epidemiological trial, an association between topical use of skin care products containing peanut oil and the development of peanut allergy was observed; however, the data reflect a retrospective analysis without specifying skin care products containing peanut oil and also without analysing the quantity of topicals used. In contrast, oral tolerance was prevented and allergic sensitization was enhanced in a mouse model using high concentrations of peanut protein. So far, no reliable data are available regarding doses required to induce sensitization against peanut allergen via the epidermal route. A possible induction of sensitization against peanut proteins through contact with the skin via skin care products and the respective protein concentrations is a matter of speculation. Patients with atopic diseases, namely eczema, need appropriate skin care because of the disturbed skin barrier function. The benefit of avoiding damage to skin barrier functions of atopic individuals by the use of peanut protein-containing skin care products seems to outweigh possible risks of sensitization and/or allergy induction against substances contained in those products containing refined peanut oil. [source] Quality of life and disability assessment in neuropathy: a multicentre studyJOURNAL OF THE PERIPHERAL NERVOUS SYSTEM, Issue 1 2005Luca Padua Abstract Neuropathy can severely affect patients' quality of life (QoL), causing disability and decreased motor efficiency while modifying their perception of the external environment. We performed a large, multiperspective, and multimeasurement assessment using validated clinical measurements of disability and QoL. With regard to general disability, more than 10% of patients needed assistance to walk. With regard to arm disability, about 10% of patients had severe disability defined as impairment in carrying out simple tasks. General disability was similar both in polyneuropathic and multineuropathic groups, but arm disability appeared more severe in multineuropathic patients. QoL profiles were highly deteriorated in our sample with respect to the Italian normative sample. All age brackets were highly impaired except for older patients for whom the QoL picture was only mildly impaired with respect to Italian norms. We believe that our study provides reliable data on QoL in patients with neuropathies and that it may represent a quantitative step forward in understanding the disability of patients with neuropathy. [source] Laccase production by Phanerochaete chrysosporium, an artefact caused by Mn(III)?LETTERS IN APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 6 2001H. Podgornik Aims: The possibility of laccase production by Phanerochaete chrysosporium was studied. Methods and Results: A relatively high initial Mn(II) concentration (1,4 mM) in the growth medium leads to the development of reddish-brown coloration and intensive oxidation of 2.2,-azino-bis(3-etilbenz-tiazolin-6-sulfonate) (ABTS). The peak of ABTS oxidation was obtained approximately 1 day after the peak of MnP activity. Conclusions: ABTS oxidation was not caused by manganese peroxidase (MnP) nor by laccase but was the consequence of the action of Mn(III) which was stabilised in the growth medium. Decomposition of the complex took place after the biomass was removed from the growth medium and especially after the aeration of the culture was interrupted. Significance and Impact of the Study: Mn(III) seems to be the cause of false positive laccase reactions. More reliable data on MnP activity can be obtained if the complex is decomposed by the fungus before MnP activity is measured in the medium. [source] Characterisation of lubricants on ball bearings by FT-IR using an integrating sphereLUBRICATION SCIENCE, Issue 3 2007K.W. Street Abstract Fourier transform-infrared reflectance microspectroscopy has been used extensively for the examination of coatings on non-planar surfaces such as ball bearings. While this technique offers considerable advantages, practical application has many drawbacks, some of which are easily overcome by the use of integrating sphere technology. This paper described the use of an integrating sphere for the quantification of thin layers of lubricant on the surface of ball bearings and the parameters that require optimisation in order to obtain reliable data. Several applications of the technique were discussed including determination of lubricant load on 12.7mm steel ball bearings and the examination of degraded lubricant on post-mortem specimens. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Effect of Branch Length on 13C NMR Relaxation Properties in Molten Poly[ethylene- co -(, -olefin)] Model SystemsMACROMOLECULAR CHEMISTRY AND PHYSICS, Issue 19-20 2007Matthew Parkinson Abstract The potential of branch length discrimination for branches containing six and more carbons via bulk NMR relaxation properties in the melt-state has been explored. A systematic increase in the 13C spin-lattice relaxation time (T) of the terminal branch carbons 1 and 2 was observed when the branch increased from 6 to 16 carbons in length. The measurement of T via inversion recovery at high-field showed the most reliable data. The effects of saturation and NOE were addressed by using recycle delays longer than 5,×,T and the use of the saturation recovery was found to be unsatisfactory. All nuclear relaxation times were determined in a highly time efficient manner using a previously developed melt-state MAS NMR method. [source] Litter size and latitude in a large mammal: the wild boar Sus scrofaMAMMAL REVIEW, Issue 3 2010Kirsten A. BYWATER ABSTRACT 1A positive relationship between clutch size or litter size and latitude exists in birds and many species of small mammal. Hitherto, however, analyses for large mammals have failed to provide evidence that litter sizes increase with latitude. 2We collated data from published studies of wild boar in Europe, to analyse the relationship between litter size and latitude in this widely distributed terrestrial mammal. 3Depending on the specific data set (whether only the most reliable data or all available data were included), latitude explained 58% to 72% of the variation in mean litter sizes across studies. On average, litter size increases by approximately 0.15 piglets per degree of latitude. 4A strong correlation between litter size and latitude for wild boar in Europe provides a starting point for demographic modelling of this species of both ecological and economic importance. 5The pattern for wild boar is consistent with Ashmole's explanation for the effects of latitude on reproduction. The contrast between our results and those generated for other large mammals may result from our focus on an herbivore in contrast to previous work which was focused on carnivores. Further work could usefully examine the extent of seasonality in the availability of resources for species of different dietary types. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||