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Suitability
Kinds of Suitability Selected AbstractsA CRITICAL EXAMINATION OF THE SUITABILITY AND LIMITATIONS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL TESTS IN FAMILY COURTFAMILY COURT REVIEW, Issue 2 2007Steven K. Erickson Psychologists are frequently consulted by the courts to provide forensic evaluations in a variety of family court proceedings. As part of their evaluations, psychologists often use psychological tests to assess parents, guardians, and children. These tests can have profound effects on how psychologists arrive at their opinions and are often cited in their reports to the court. However, psychological tests vary substantially in their suitability for these purposes. Most projective tests in particular appear to possess little scientific merit for evaluations within family court proceedings. Despite these serious limitations, expert testimony derived from evaluations using both projective and objective tests is often admitted uncontested. This article reviews the psychometric properties of psychological tests that are widely used in family court proceedings, cautions against their unfettered use, and calls upon attorneys to inform themselves of the limitations of evaluations that incorporate these tests. [source] A STUDY ON SUITABILITY OF FOUR ENRICHMENT BROTHS FOR PCR-BASED DETECTION OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES FROM RAW MEATJOURNAL OF FOOD SAFETY, Issue 1 2006J. BALAMURUGAN ABSTRACT Four enrichment broths were evaluated for their compatibility with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection of Listeria monocytogenes from raw meat after single-step enrichment. Standardized PCR protocols for listeriolysin O (hlyA) gene were used for the species-specific identification of L. monocytogenes. Four broths, namely, modified University of Vermont broth (MUVM), Listeria enrichment broth (LEB), Fraser broth (FB) and polymyxin, acriflavin, lithium chloride, ceftazidime, aesculin, mannitol, egg yolk broth (PALCAM) , were inoculated with L. monocytogenes. The enriched cultures were subjected for PCR. Similarly, meat samples were artificially spiked with various concentrations of L. monocytogenes, these spiked samples were enriched in the above-mentioned four broths and subjected to PCR to determine the medium that was most compatible for PCR-based detection of L. monocytogenes. The aliquots taken during different incubation periods were subjected to three different procedures for the concentration of the target organism for use in PCR. Results revealed that MUVM was better than other broths for the detection of L. monocytogenes by both PCR and cultural method; moreover, it was able to support the growth of as low as 10 cfu/g of meat. Concentration of the target organisms by centrifugation and washing with PCR buffer was the most suitable method for improving PCR performance for detection of L. monocytogenes. Goat (n = 67) and buffalo (n = 45) meat samples from local markets were also screened by both PCR and cultural method to validate the results obtained from the spiking studies. Both results were in agreement in spiking studies as well as screening of market meat samples. [source] SUITABILITY OF SINGLE-COMPRESSION AND TPA TESTS TO DETERMINE ADHESIVENESS IN SOLID AND SEMI-SOLID FOODSJOURNAL OF TEXTURE STUDIES, Issue 1 2000S. M. FISZMAN ABSTRACT Single compression tests were applied to carrageenan plus locust bean gum model gels (1:1) without sucrose and with 40% added sucrose, and two commercial samples of quince jelly containing high levels of sucrose (55 and 72 °Brix). The samples were glued to the main platform of the texturometer. The tests were performed up to two different levels of compression. Negative area (Aadh), the time that the samples remained adhering to the probe (tadh), and maximum negative force (Fmax) during the decompression stroke were determined. All the parameter values for the commercial samples were greater than those for the model systems. Aadh and Fmax were good indices of adhesiveness. The highest discriminative capacity in detecting sucrose levels of these two parameters was obtained at a low degree of compression; this could be because the samples had not suffered damage to their internal structure. Since the samples had high instantaneous recoverable springiness, the application of automated TPA proved inappropriate for obtaining a measurement of adhesiveness. [source] Suitability of Golf Course Ponds for Amphibian Metamorphosis When Bullfrogs Are RemovedCONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 1 2008MICHELLE D. BOONE charcas en campos de golf; competencia; depredación; metamorfosis de anfibios; Rana catesbeiana Abstract:,Managing areas designed for human recreation so that they are compatible with natural amphibian populations can reduce the negative impacts of habitat destruction. We examined the potential for amphibians to complete larval development in golf course ponds in the presence or absence of overwintered bullfrog tadpoles (Rana catesbeiana), which are frequently found in permanent, human-made ponds. We reared larval American toads (Bufo americanus), southern leopard frogs (R. sphenocephala), and spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum) with 0 or 5 overwintered bullfrog tadpoles in field enclosures located in ponds on golf courses or in experimental wetlands at a reference site. Survival to metamorphosis of American toads, southern leopard frogs, and spotted salamanders was greater in ponds on golf courses than at reference sites. We attributed this increased survival to low abundance of insect predators in golf course ponds. The presence of overwintered bullfrogs, however, reduced the survival of American toads, southern leopard frogs, and spotted salamanders reared in golf course ponds, indicating that the suitability of the aquatic habitats for these species partly depended on the biotic community present. Our results suggest that ponds in human recreational areas should be managed by maintaining intermediate hydroperiods, which will reduce the presence of bullfrog tadpoles and predators, such as fish, and which may allow native amphibian assemblages to flourish. Resumen:,El manejo de áreas diseñadas para la recreación humana de manera que sean compatibles con las poblaciones naturales de anfibios puede reducir los impactos negativos de la destrucción del hábitat. Examinamos el potencial de anfibios para completar el desarrollo larvario en lagos en campos de golf en presencia o ausencia de renacuajos de Rana catesbeiana, que frecuentemente son encontrados en charcas artificiales permanentes. Criamos sapos (Bufo americanus), ranas (R. sphenocephala) y salamandras manchadas (Ambystoma maculatum) con cero o cinco renacuajos de R. catesbeiana en encierros localizados en charcas en campos de golf o en humedales experimentales en un sitio de referencia. La supervivencia hasta la metamorfosis de B. americanus, R. sphenocephala y A. maculatum fue mayor en los campos de golf que en los sitios de referencia. Atribuimos este incremento en la supervivencia a la baja abundancia de insectos depredadores en las charcas de los campos de golf. Sin embargo, la presencia de renacuajos de R. catesbeiana redujo la supervivencia de B. americanus, R. sphenocephala y A. maculatum en los campos de golf, indicando que el beneficio de los hábitats acuáticos para estas especies dependía parcialmente de la comunidad biótica presente. Nuestros resultados sugieren que las charcas en áreas recreativas deberían ser manejadas manteniendo hidroperíodos intermedios, que reducirían la presencia de renacuajos de R. catesbeiana y de depredadores, como peces, y que permitirían que florezcan ensambles de anfibios nativos. [source] Suitability of the European standard series of patch test allergensin Pakistani patientsCONTACT DERMATITIS, Issue 1 2002Ijaz Hussain No abstract is available for this article. [source] Suitability for psychoanalytic psychotherapy: a reviewACTA PSYCHIATRICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 3 2004K. Valbak Objective:, To review empirical studies on outpatients' pretherapy suitability for psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Method:, A literature search for studies in English was made in the databases MEDLINE, PsychInfo and EM-base. Forty-one studies spanning 20 years were selected for a thorough evaluation. Results:, Seventy-five per cent of the studies concerned brief dynamic psychotherapy. In general, application of single measures of suitability had a modest predictive value with correlations in the range of 0.17,0.73. There was no consistent difference between various formats of therapies. Most promising variables with the highest correlations with good outcome were: ,good quality of object relations', ,psychological mindedness' and ,motivation for change'. Some clinical guidelines can be drawn from quantitative research to provide the therapist with best method and format. Conclusion:, The importance of psychological variables known from the development of the brief dynamic therapies and earlier research was confirmed. Most correlations were modest and single factors could not be identified. Multivariate designs that combine different methods and formats with patient characteristics seem most promising in future predictor-outcome research. [source] Suitability of Stripping Chronopotentiometry for Heavy Metal Speciation Using Hydrogen Peroxide as Oxidant: Application to the Cd(II)-EDTA-PMA SystemELECTROANALYSIS, Issue 24 2005Núria Serrano Abstract The possibilities of stripping chronopotentiometry (SCP) for heavy metal speciation have been tested in the modality of chemical oxidation using the model systems Cd(II)-polyacrylic acid (PMA), Cd(II)-EDTA and Cd(II)-PMA-EDTA. The use of 0.03% H2O2 as a chemical oxidant provides reliable results from transition times, but peak potentials are dramatically affected by the presence of this reagent. The study suggests that chemical-oxidation SCP can be a technique complementary to other stripping modalities in the study of inert and macromolecular labile metal complexes. [source] Suitability of Molluscs as Bioindicators for Meadow- and Flood-Channels of the Elbe-FloodplainsINTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF HYDROBIOLOGY, Issue 4 2006Francis Foeckler Abstract The goals of the subproject "molluscs" within the inter-disciplinary research project "Indicator systems for the characterisation and prediction of ecological changes in floodplain systems" were: , develop further existing mollusc-based indicator systems of site quality and to test their transferability, , characterise grassland sites within the recent floodplains of three study areas along the Elbe River, , analyse the relationships between indicator species-/groups and abiotic parameters, , compile and use selected species traits in the analytical process. The results clearly show several characteristic species groups related to the hydrology of the sites (i.e. inundation and desiccation regime) and on to the degree of agricultural use. These dependencies can be interpreted by the simultaneous analysis of the species traits. "Models" are proposed, that are applicable to nature protection measures at the landscape scale. (© 2006 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Triphase Hydrogenation Reactions Utilizing Palladium-Immobilized Capillary Column Reactors and a Demonstration of Suitability for Large Scale SynthesisADVANCED SYNTHESIS & CATALYSIS (PREVIOUSLY: JOURNAL FUER PRAKTISCHE CHEMIE), Issue 15 2005Juta Kobayashi Abstract We have developed a practical and highly productive system for hydrogenation reactions utilizing capillary column reactors, which occupy less space than ordinary batch systems, are low cost and easy to handle, and show feasibility toward large-scale chemical synthesis. Palladium-containing micelles were immobilized onto the inner surface of the capillaries. Nine palladium-immobilized capillaries were assembled and connected to a T-shaped connector, and hydrogen and a substrate solution were fed to capillaries via the connector. Hydrogenation of 1-phenyl-1-cyclohexene (1) proceeded smoothly to give phenylcyclohexane in quantitative yield. The capillaries themselves occupy only ca. 0.4,mL and a high space-time yield has been achieved (124.3,mg/17,min/0.4,mL). In addition, leaching of palladium was not detected by ICP analysis after reactions. [source] Influence of different sugars on the longevity of Bathyplectes curculionis (Hym., Ichneumonidae)JOURNAL OF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 4 2004H. Spafford Jacob Abstract:, Floral nectars, homopteran honeydews and honey are known to increase parasitoid longevity. However, these foods are composed of several sugars which may differentially affect longevity. We tested the effects of individual sugars and mixtures on the longevity of Bathyplectes curculionis Thomson (Hym., Ichenumonidae), a natural enemy of the alfalfa weevil. There was a significant difference in the longevity of female wasps on the various diets. Glucose or fructose alone appeared to have the most benefits while trehalose and melezitose were not as useful for increasing wasp longevity. Suitability of these sugars for provisioning food for parasitoids in the field is discussed. [source] Identification of microsatellite DNA markers for population structure analysis in Indian major carp, Cirrhinus mrigala (Hamilton-Buchanan, 1882)JOURNAL OF APPLIED ICHTHYOLOGY, Issue 2 2004K. K. Lal Summary Forty-four primer sequences available for four cyprinid fishes were tested to amplify microsatellite loci in Indian major carp, Cirrhinus mrigala. A total of 12 loci were successfully amplified with clear scorable patterns and five thereof were polymorphic. Suitability of the identified polymorphic loci in population structure analysis of C. mrigala was assessed. Genetic variation was examined in 76 specimens collected from five different rivers. The mean observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.247 to 0.333. Significant heterogeneity in allele frequencies was detected, indicating that the samples analysed did not belong to homogenous populations. The identified microsatellite markers are promising for the analysis of intraspecific divergence in C. mrigala across its distribution range. [source] Suitability of bifidobacteria and thymol as biopreservatives in extending the shelf life of fresh packed plaice filletsJOURNAL OF APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 6 2005C. Altieri Abstract Aims:, The present study was aimed to evaluate the microbiological and sensory characteristics of biopreserved packed fresh plaice (Pleuronectes platessa), during storage. Methods and Results:, Fish samples were treated with a Bifidobacterium bifidum strain and thymol as preservatives, stored at different temperatures (4 and 12°C) and package atmospheres (in air, under vacuum, modified atmosphere). Data about the total viable count (TVC) were used to predict the shelf life of the fish fillets as affected by the preservatives used and the storage conditions. Data obtained revealed that B. bifidum could perform an efficient synergy with thymol, in controlling the hygiene biological markers. Besides, the tested bifidobacterial species, combined with low storage temperature and anoxia/hypoxia, showed a great efficacy against the main fresh packaged fish spoilage species (Pseudomonas spp., Photobacterium phosphoreum). Conclusions:, The studied technique could be considered effective in fresh fish spoilage control. Significance and Impact of the Study:, Great interest is developing on food biopreservation, because of the ever increasing needs to protect consumers' and environment's health, and to revalorize some important food characteristics, such as naturalness and authenticity, without leaving the safety aside. [source] Suitability of glycerin-preserved otoliths for age validation using bomb radiocarbonJOURNAL OF FISH BIOLOGY, Issue 4 2003S. E. Campana The effect of glycerin storage on the bomb radiocarbon content of otoliths was determined experimentally. Storage in either pre- or post-bomb glycerin had no detectable effect on the bomb radiocarbon content of either pre- or post-bomb otoliths. Therefore bomb-dated age validation studies need not be restricted to freshly-collected samples or dry otoliths, implying that the large numbers of glycerin-archived otoliths around the world are suitable for age validation studies using bomb radiocarbon. [source] Probiotic Strains as Starter Cultures Improve Angiotensin-converting Enzyme Inhibitory Activity in Soy YogurtJOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 8 2005O.N. Donkor ABSTRACT Suitability of soy yogurt as a system for delivering probiotics and other bioactive compounds was assessed by fermenting soy milk using starter culture containing Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus Lb1466, Streptococcus thermophilus St1342, and probiotic organisms (Lactobacillus acidophilus LAFTI® L10, Bifidobacterium lactis LAFTI® B94, and Lactobacillus paracasei LAFTI® L26). Fermentations were terminated at different pH of 4.50, 4.55, and 4.60 and metabolic patterns of cultures (viability, proteolytic activity, organic acids production, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity) were investigated during 28 d of storage at 4 °C. The presence of probiotics enhanced the growth of L. delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus Lb1466 and S. thermophilus St134 in soy yogurt in comparison to the control produced by sole yogurt culture. In general, different termination pH had no effect (P > 0.05) on the viability of probiotic organisms that maintained good viability in soy yogurt during cold storage. Higher levels of essential growth factors in the form of peptides and amino acids in soy yogurts may have promoted the growth of L. acidophilus LAFTI® L10, B. lactis LAFTI® B94, and L. paracasei LAFTI® L26. The use of probiotic strains as a part of starter culture in soy yogurt resulted in a substantial increase in in vitro ACE inhibitory activity compared with the control produced by yogurt culture only. This improvement of ACE inhibition in soy yogurt is partly due to higher proteolytic activity of probiotics. [source] The Dielectric Property of Soybean Oil in Deep-Fat Frying and the Effect of FrequencyJOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 3 2002C. Inoue ABSTRACT: : Suitability of the dielectric constant for real time and continuous evaluation of frying oil was investigated. Measurements of the dielectric capacitance, in the frequency range 1 kHz to 100 kHz, were made on soybean oil heated at several temperatures (180, 200, 220, and 240 °C) for a few d. Frequency dependence was also measured between 50 Hz and 30 MHz. The dielectric constant of the soybean oil increased with increase in the heating time, and was well correlated with acid value, density, and relative viscosity. Our equipment for measuring capacitance would be available for real time and continuous evaluation of frying oil quality in the food industry. [source] Flow Characterization of Peach Products During ExtrusionJOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 3 2000H. Akdogan ABSTRACT: Suitability of Bingham, Herschel-Bulkley, Casson, and Mizrahi-Berk models, to characterize the flow behavior of peach products during extrusion was investigated. The Casson equation sufficiently described the flow of peach extrudates within the 49 to 125 s -1 shear rate range. As concentration increased, yield stress and consistency coefficients increased. A rheological model was proposed to describe the viscosity of peach extrudates. The model incorporates the effect of shear rate by the Casson equation and the effect of concentration by a linear expression. The model provided good fit to the experimental data for peach extrudates reconstituted from drum-dried peach purees. [source] Assessing the Suitability of Various Physiological Traits to Screen Wheat Genotypes for Salt ToleranceJOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY, Issue 9 2007Salah E. El-Hendawy Abstract Success of improving the salt tolerance of genotypes requires effective and reliable screening traits in breeding programs. The objective was to assess the suitability of various physiological traits to screen wheat genotypes for salt tolerance. Thirteen wheat genotypes from Egypt, Germany, Australia and India were grown in soil with two salinity levels (control and 150 mmol/L NaCl) in a greenhouse. The physiological traits (ion contents in leaves and stems, i.e. Na+, Cl,, K+, Ca2+), the ratios of K+/Na+ and Ca+/Na+ in the leaves and stems, net photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, chlorophyll content (SPAD value), and leaf water relations, were measured at different growth stages. The physiological traits except for Na+ and Cl, in stems and the leaf transpiration rate at 150 mmol/L NaCl showed a significant genotypic variation, indicating that the traits that have a significant genotypic variation may be possibly used as screening criteria. According to the analysis of linear regression of the scores of the physiological traits against those of grain yield, however, the physiological traits of Ca2+ and Ca2+/Na+ at 45 d and final harvest with the greatest genotypic variation were ranked at the top. From a practical and economic point of view, SPAD value should be considered to be used as screening criteria and/or there is a need to develop a quick and practical approach to determine Ca2+ in plant tissues. [source] Plant responses to drought and phosphorus deficiency: contribution of phytohormones in root-related processesJOURNAL OF PLANT NUTRITION AND SOIL SCIENCE, Issue 4 2005Lutz Wittenmayer Abstract Environmental stresses are one of the most limiting factors in agricultural productivity. A large portion of the annual crop yield is lost to pathogens (biotic stress) or the detrimental effects of abiotic-stress conditions. There are numerous reports about chemical characterization of quantitatively significant substrate fluxes in plant responses to stress factors in the root-rhizosphere system, e.g., nutrient mobilization, heavy-metal and aluminum immobilization, or establishment of plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) by exudation of organic anions, phytosiderophores, or carbohydrates into the soil, respectively. The hormonal regulation of these responses is not well understood. This paper highlights this complex process, stressing the involvement of phytohormones in plant responses to drought and phosphorus deficiency as examples. Beside ethylene, abscisic acid (ABA) plays an important role in drought-stress adaptation of plants. This hormone causes morphological and chemical changes in plants, ensuring plant survival under water-limited conditions. For example, ABA induces stomata closure, reduction in leaf surface, and increase in root : shoot ratio and, thus, reduction in transpiration and increase in soil volume for water uptake. Furthermore, it supports water uptake in soil with decreasing water potential by osmotic adjustment. Suitability of hormonal parameters in the selection for improving stress resistance is discussed. Auxins, ethylene, and cytokinins are involved in morphological adaption processes to phosphorus (P) deficiency (increase in root surface, e.g., by the formation of more dense root hairs or cluster roots). Furthermore, indole-3-acetic acid increases root exudation for direct and indirect phosphorus mobilization in soil. Nevertheless, the direct use of the trait "hormone content" of a particular plant organ or tissue, for example the use of the drought-stress-induced ABA content of detached leaves in plant breeding for drought-stress-resistant crops, seems to be questionable, because this procedure does not consider the systemic principle of hormonal regulation in plants. Reaktionen von Pflanzen auf Trockenstress und Phosphormangel: Die Rolle von Phytohormonen in wurzelbezogenen Prozessen Umweltstress stellt den wesentlichsten Limitierungsfaktor für die landwirtschaftliche Produktion dar. Ein erheblicher Teil der jährlichen Ernten geht durch pathogene Organismen (biotischer Stress) oder durch die verheerende Wirkung abiotischer Stressoren verloren (v. a. Trockenstress und Nährstoffmangel). Es gibt zahlreiche Untersuchungen zur stofflichen Charakterisierung der pflanzlichen Stressreaktion an der Wurzel, z.,B. Nährstoffmobilisierung, Schadstoffimmobilisierung oder Etablierung von wachstumsfördernden Rhizobakterien durch Wurzelabscheidungen. Die hormonelle Steuerung dieser Prozesse ist bisher weniger erforscht. Der Artikel geht dieser Problematik am Beispiel von Trockenstress und Phosphormangel unter besonderer Berücksichtigung von Phytohormonen nach. Bei der Anpassung von Pflanzen an Wassermangelbedingungen spielt neben Ethylen das Phytohormon Abscisinsäure (ABA) eine wichtige Rolle. Es induziert morphologische und chemische Veränderungen in der Pflanze, die ein Überleben unter Wassermangelbedingungen ermöglichen. Beispielsweise induziert die ABA den Stomataschluss, eine Verringerung der Blattoberfläche sowie eine Erhöhung des Wurzel:Spross-Verhältnisses und bewirkt dadurch eine verringerte Transpiration und Vergrößerung des Bodenvolumens zur Erschließung von Wasservorräten. Darüber hinaus kann eine ABA-induzierte Anreicherung von osmotisch wirksamen Verbindungen zur Wasseraufnahme bei sinkendem Wasserpotential im Boden beitragen. Bei Phosphat (P)-Mangel sind vor allem Auxine, Cytokine und Ethylen an der morphologischen Anpassung der Wurzeln (Vergrößerung der Wurzeloberfläche durch verstärkte Bildung von Wurzelhaaren oder Proteoidwurzeln) beteiligt. Darüber hinaus bewirkt Indolyl-3-Essigäure eine Intensivierung der Abgabe von Wurzelabscheidungen zur direkten oder indirekten P-Mobilisierung in der Rhizosphäre. Trotzdem wird die unmittelbare Verwendung des Indikators "Hormongehalt" eines bestimmten Pflanzenorganes, beispielsweise der trockenstressinduzierte ABA-Gehalt von abgeschnittenen Blättern, für die Züchtung auf Stressresistenz als problematisch angesehen, da sie das systemische Prinzip der Hormonregulation nicht berücksichtigt. [source] Eignung eines großen Flüssigkeits- und eines Luftpyknometers zur Bestimmung des Rohvolumens von Feststoffen unterschiedlicher Art und GrößeJOURNAL OF PLANT NUTRITION AND SOIL SCIENCE, Issue 2 2005Berthold Deller Abstract Das Feststoffvolumen von Materialien, die sowohl relativ große als auch spezifisch leichte Bestandteile enthalten, kann nach DIN ISO 11508 (mit relativ kleinen Flüssigkeitspyknometern (FP) und submerser Wägung in Wasser) nicht bestimmt werden. Deshalb wurde geprüft, ob es ohne Zerkleinerung des Untersuchungsmaterials in einem größeren FP (ca. 280,cm3) oder einem Luftpyknometer (LP) genau genug zu ermitteln ist. Materialien mit gröberen Bestandteilen bzw. Feststoffe mit sehr unterschiedlicher Rohdichte ergaben mit dem FP größere Differenzen zwischen Parallelansätzen als die wiederholte Befüllung mit Wasser und die Untersuchung von feinkörnigen Mineralböden erwarten ließ. Die wesentliche Ursache dafür wird in der materialspezifischen Inhomogenität gesehen. Das FP scheint somit für die Untersuchung von Materialien mit Partikeldurchmessern von bis zu 3,cm grundsätzlich geeignet. Die Bestimmung muss jedoch jeweils an mindestens zwei Parallelproben erfolgen und ggf. erweitert werden, um verlässliche Mittelwerte zu erhalten. Die gleiche Bestimmung mit einem selbst gebauten LP ergab zu niedrige Werte für das Rohvolumen, wenn die Materialien ofentrocken, lufttrocken und feucht waren (Ausnahme: solche mit kompakten und relativ großen Partikeln). Die Fehler traten sowohl bei der Messung durch Luftdrucksenkung (ca. ,300 hPa) als auch unter Druckerhöhung (ca. 100,hPa) auf. Das Volumen von reinem Wasser konnte demgegenüber unter Druckerhöhung wesentlich genauer und richtiger bestimmt werden. Nach Kochen der Proben (wie für die Flüssigkeitspyknometrie) und Überdecken mit Wasser in der LP-Messkammer waren die Ergebnisse deutlich besser mit denen des FP vergleichbar und plausibler. Die Fehlerursachen werden darin gesehen, dass die Messung durch adsorbierte Luft (getrocknete und lufttrockene Proben) gestört wird bzw. Wasser von den Materialoberflächen während des Messvorganges verdampft. Suitability of a large liquid pycnometer and an air pycnometer to determine the raw volume of solids of different type and size The raw volume of materials, which contain constituents of relatively large size as well as of low density, can not be determined according to ISO 11508 without grinding. Therefore, this study should show if the analysis can be performed on original-sized materials with a large liquid pycnometer (LP, volume of about 280,cm3) or a self-made air pycnometer (AP). When materials of particle size up to 16,mm and/or of very different raw density were analyzed with the LP, the differences between parallel measurements were considerably greater than those of fine-textured soils and than those expected from repeated filling of the LP with water. They are ascribed mainly to the inhomogeneity of the samples and less to measuring errors. Consequently, the LP used seems to be suitable for the determination of particles with constituent size of up to 3,cm. However, the volume determination of every sample has to be performed at least twice. If the results do not meet the required precision, more repetitious measurements have to be performed, or the sample amount has to be enlarged. The same determination with the AP led to comparable and plausible results only in the case of water and of materials with compact constituents of relatively great size mainly (sand and fine gravel), when the samples were oven-dry, air-dry, or fairly moist. The results of the other materials were comparable, when the same sample preparation was performed as with liquid pycnometry (heating-up in water) and when they were covered by water in the measuring cell during measurement. The deviations from LP measurements were reduced, when measuring was performed by increasing air-pressure conditions (100 hPa) instead of lowering (,300 hPa), but to an insufficient degree. The reason for erroneous results was attributed to the existence of adsorbed air on particle surfaces (dry materials) and the evaporation of water during the measuring step (moist samples), respectively. [source] Systematic review and meta-analysis of the adverse effects of thyroidectomy combined with central neck dissection as compared with thyroidectomy aloneTHE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 6 2009Edward J. Chisholm MRCS Abstract Objectives/Hypothesis: Meta-analysis to assess the increased morbidity of performing a central neck dissection with thyroidectomy to thyroidectomy alone. Study Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods: Published articles were searched for using PubMed. Suitability was assessed by using predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Meta-analysis on the data was performed using the Mantel-Haenszel method and a risk difference calculated. Results: Five studies with a total of 1,132 patients were included. For every 7.7 central neck dissections performed with thyroidectomy, there was one extra case of temporary hypocalcemia when compared to thyroidectomy alone. There was no significant increased risk of permanent hypocalcemia or temporary or permanent vocal cord palsy when a central neck dissection was performed in addition to a thyroidectomy. Conclusions: The benefits of prophylactic central neck dissection in differentiated thyroid carcinoma may be debated but there is no increased permanent morbidity by performing the procedure at the same time as thyroidectomy. Laryngoscope, 2009 [source] Impact of the National Pension Fund on the Suitability of Elderly Pensions in Thailand,ASIAN ECONOMIC JOURNAL, Issue 1 2009Wade D. Pfau H55 This study combines a traditional hypothetical worker approach with the techniques of stochastic forecasting to provide a better sense about the suitability of the pension system for formal sector private workers in Thailand. With regard to the proposed defined-contribution pension, we find that workers with a 40-year career can only expect a median replacement rate of approximately 13,14 percent of their final 5 years of income. Most of the pension benefits will still likely come from the unsustainable defined-benefit pension system and further reforms will be needed to maintain suitable pensions. [source] Assessment of Geological Security and Integrated Assessment Geo-environmental Suitability in Worst-hit Areas in Wenchuan QuakeACTA GEOLOGICA SINICA (ENGLISH EDITION), Issue 4 2009Wenpeng LI Abstract: The Wenchuan earthquake in 2008 and geo-hazards triggered by the earthquake caused large injuries and deaths as well as destructive damage for infrastructures like construction, traffic and electricity. It is urgent to select relatively secure areas for townships and cities constructed in high mountainous regions with high magnitude earthquakes. This paper presents the basic thoughts, evaluation indices and evaluation methods of geological security evaluation, water and land resources security demonstration and integrated assessments of geo-environmental suitability for reconstruction in alp and ravine with high magnitude earthquakes, which are applied in the worst-hit areas (12 counties). The integrated assessment shows that: (1) located in the Longmenshan fault zone, the evaluated area is of poor regional crust stability, in which the unstable and second unstable areas account for 79% of the total; (2) the geo-hazards susceptibility is high in the evaluation area. The spots of geo-hazards triggered by earthquake are mainly distributed along the active fault zone with higher distribution in the moderate and high mountains area, in which the areas of high and moderate susceptibility zoning accounts for 40.1% of the total; (3) geological security is poor in the evaluated area, in which the area of the unsuitable construction occupies 73.1%, whereas in the suitable construction area, the areas of geological security, second security and insecurity zoning account for 8.3%, 9.3% and 9.3% of the evaluated area respectively; (4) geo-environmental suitability is poor in the evaluated area, in which the areas of suitability and basic suitability zoning account for 3.5% and 7.3% of the whole evaluation area. [source] Suitability for endovascular aneurysm repair in an unselected population (Br J Surg 2001; 88: 77,81)BRITISH JOURNAL OF SURGERY (NOW INCLUDES EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SURGERY), Issue 6 2001M. P. Armon No abstract is available for this article. [source] Effect of different metal ions on structural, thermal, spectroscopic and optical properties of ATCC and ATMC single crystalsCRYSTAL RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY, Issue 8 2007R. Perumal Abstract A novel metal-organic coordination complex nonlinear optical crystals, tri-allylthiourea cadmium chloride [(CdCl2(AT)3] and tri-allylthiourea mercury chloride [(HgCl2(AT)3] abbreviated as ATCC, ATMC (AT is Allylthiourea i.e.,CH2=CHCH2NHCSNH2) has been synthesized and grown as single crystals. It was synthesized in deionised water and further recrystallized to improve its purity. Single crystals of the allylthiourea co-ordination complex nonlinear optical crystals tri allylthiourea cadmium chloride (ATCC) with dimensions of 14x14x10 mm3 and tri allylthiourea mercury chloride (ATMC) with dimensions of 15x15x12 mm3 were grown successfully from aqueous solution by solvent evaporation as well as by temperature lowering method. It exhibits powder SHG efficiencies higher than that of a well known organic NLO crystal Urea. The solubility of the as grown crystals was estimated from the aqueous solution and the effect of different metal ions on the grown crystals, structural, thermal, spectral and optical properties were analyzed. XRD studies the reveals the same structure of both materials. Influence of the different central metal (Cd and Hg) atoms, changing the thermal properties of the materials when NLO complexes formed with the common ligand allylthiourea. The metal co-ordination was confirmed form the spectroscopic analysis. From the UV transmittance studies, red shift was from the transparency cut-off wavelengths. The value is 285nm for ATCC is and is 335nm ATMC, Non-linear an optical study confirms the suitabilities of the as grown crystals for the non linear optical applications. (© 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source] Spectrum and inheritance of resistance to the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne hapla in Rosa multiflora and R. indicaPLANT BREEDING, Issue 1 2004X. Wang Abstract The spectrum and inheritance of resistance to the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne hapla was studied in the diploid species Rosa multiflora and R. indica. The host suitability of seven rose rootstocks, namely five R. multiflora (K2, K1, Floradale, CE63 and CE65) and two R. indica (CE35 and Maroc) clonal accessions, was evaluated using four geographic isolates of M. hapla. Plants grown under greenhouse conditions were tested at high and durable inoculum pressure of nematodes and rated for nematode infestation five months after inoculation on a 0,5 gall index. Different host suitabilities to M. hapla were demonstrated depending on the nematode isolates: in R. multiflora, the clone K2 had a resistant (R) response to all isolates; the clone K1 ranged from intermediate (I) (isolate ,Canada') to resistant (other isolates), Floradale was shown to be intermediate, whereas CE63 and CE65 were moderate to good hosts (H). In R. indica, both rootstocks were good to excellent hosts for the isolate Canada but resistant to all three other isolates, thus expressing an isolate-specific resistance. A study on the genetics of resistance in R. multiflora to the M. hapla isolate Canada was then conducted using an incomplete diallel cross involving all previous clones except Floradale. A total of 120 hybrid individuals belonging to several progenies representing the cross combinations R × I, R × H, I × H and H × H were evaluated. Individuals of each progeny generally ranged into a monomodal distribution that suggests polygenic inheritance of resistance. In the family Rosaceae, the differences in the resistance genetics to the meiotic species M. hapla and to the mitotic species, M. arenaria, M. incognita and M. javanica are discussed in relation to the reproductive status of the nematodes. [source] A Multiresolution Model for Soft Objects Supporting Interactive Cuts and LacerationsCOMPUTER GRAPHICS FORUM, Issue 3 2000Fabio Ganovelli Performing a really interactive and physically-based simulation of complex soft objects is still an open problem in computer animation/simulation. Given the application domain of virtual surgery training, a complete model should be quite realistic, interactive and should enable the user to modify the topology of the objects. Recent papers propose the adoption of multiresolution techniques to optimize time performance by representing at high resolution only the object parts considered more important or critical. The speed up obtainable at simulation time are counterbalanced by the need of a preprocessing phase strongly dependent on the topology of the object, with the drawback that performing dynamic topology modification becomes a prohibitive issue. In this paper we present an approach that couples multiresolution and topological modifications, based on the adoption of a particle systems approach to the physical simulation. Our approach is based on a tetrahedral decomposition of the space, chosen both for its suitability to support a particle system and for the ready availability of many techniques recently proposed for the simplification and multiresolution management of 3D simplicial decompositions. The multiresolution simulation system is designed to ensure the required speedup and to support dynamic changes of the topology, e.g. due to cuts or lacerations of the represented tissue. [source] Design and Management Strategies for Mixed Public Private Transportation Networks: A Meta-Heuristic ApproachCOMPUTER-AIDED CIVIL AND INFRASTRUCTURE ENGINEERING, Issue 4 2009Avinash Unnikrishnan In this study, private companies are assumed to have a degree of control over highway sections on which they perform maintenance and rehabilitation and capacity expansion activities. The private investors recover the cost of construction by levying tolls. The public agency is assumed to maintain the rest of the network with the objective of minimizing total system generalized cost. The bi-directional impact of roadway utilization on deterioration and deterioration on utilization is modeled in this study. The model accounts for route choice of users and all users are assumed to choose routes that have equal and minimal experienced generalized cost. The nonconvex and discontinuous multi-objective mathematical program is solved using nondominant sorting genetic algorithm-II and the pareto-optimal trade-off surface between the profit of the private company and the total system cost is generated. Computational runs are conducted to demonstrate the suitability and flexibility of the developed framework in modeling various policy decisions such as the presence of noncompete clauses. [source] Suitability of Golf Course Ponds for Amphibian Metamorphosis When Bullfrogs Are RemovedCONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 1 2008MICHELLE D. BOONE charcas en campos de golf; competencia; depredación; metamorfosis de anfibios; Rana catesbeiana Abstract:,Managing areas designed for human recreation so that they are compatible with natural amphibian populations can reduce the negative impacts of habitat destruction. We examined the potential for amphibians to complete larval development in golf course ponds in the presence or absence of overwintered bullfrog tadpoles (Rana catesbeiana), which are frequently found in permanent, human-made ponds. We reared larval American toads (Bufo americanus), southern leopard frogs (R. sphenocephala), and spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum) with 0 or 5 overwintered bullfrog tadpoles in field enclosures located in ponds on golf courses or in experimental wetlands at a reference site. Survival to metamorphosis of American toads, southern leopard frogs, and spotted salamanders was greater in ponds on golf courses than at reference sites. We attributed this increased survival to low abundance of insect predators in golf course ponds. The presence of overwintered bullfrogs, however, reduced the survival of American toads, southern leopard frogs, and spotted salamanders reared in golf course ponds, indicating that the suitability of the aquatic habitats for these species partly depended on the biotic community present. Our results suggest that ponds in human recreational areas should be managed by maintaining intermediate hydroperiods, which will reduce the presence of bullfrog tadpoles and predators, such as fish, and which may allow native amphibian assemblages to flourish. Resumen:,El manejo de áreas diseñadas para la recreación humana de manera que sean compatibles con las poblaciones naturales de anfibios puede reducir los impactos negativos de la destrucción del hábitat. Examinamos el potencial de anfibios para completar el desarrollo larvario en lagos en campos de golf en presencia o ausencia de renacuajos de Rana catesbeiana, que frecuentemente son encontrados en charcas artificiales permanentes. Criamos sapos (Bufo americanus), ranas (R. sphenocephala) y salamandras manchadas (Ambystoma maculatum) con cero o cinco renacuajos de R. catesbeiana en encierros localizados en charcas en campos de golf o en humedales experimentales en un sitio de referencia. La supervivencia hasta la metamorfosis de B. americanus, R. sphenocephala y A. maculatum fue mayor en los campos de golf que en los sitios de referencia. Atribuimos este incremento en la supervivencia a la baja abundancia de insectos depredadores en las charcas de los campos de golf. Sin embargo, la presencia de renacuajos de R. catesbeiana redujo la supervivencia de B. americanus, R. sphenocephala y A. maculatum en los campos de golf, indicando que el beneficio de los hábitats acuáticos para estas especies dependía parcialmente de la comunidad biótica presente. Nuestros resultados sugieren que las charcas en áreas recreativas deberían ser manejadas manteniendo hidroperíodos intermedios, que reducirían la presencia de renacuajos de R. catesbeiana y de depredadores, como peces, y que permitirían que florezcan ensambles de anfibios nativos. [source] Zoning Marine Protected Areas through Spatial Multiple-Criteria Analysis: the Case of the Asinara Island National Marine Reserve of ItalyCONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 2 2002Ferdinando Villa Systematic, objective approaches to site selection and design can help reconcile conflicting interests, represent stakeholders' viewpoints fairly and evenly, and extend the scope of planning studies from single reserves to networks. We illustrate the use of spatial multiple-criteria analysis for determining the suitability of marine areas for different uses and levels of protection. This technique couples geographic information systems (GIS) for land assessment and evaluation with a formal statement of the design priorities as seen from the different viewpoints of all involved stakeholders. The planning process, while staying focused on the main purposes of conservation and feasibility, involves all the main interest groups in the definition of priorities so that conflicts and tensions are kept under control. We used multiple-criteria analysis to integrate objective data with the contrasting priorities of different stakeholders in the planning of a marine protected area. The results of the analysis can be used to define an optimal spatial arrangement of different protection levels. As a case study, we developed a zoning plan for one of the first marine protected areas in Italy, the Asinara Island National Marine Reserve. Resumen: Puesto que el papel de las áreas marinas protegidas está siendo mejor entendido y se está volviendo más sofisticado, la planeación para abordar eficientemente estas áreas se está volviendo más complicada para las personas que toman decisiones. Las metodologías sistemáticas y objetivas para la selección de sitios y el diseño de reservas pueden ayudar a reconciliar los conflictos de intereses, representar los puntos de vista de los usuarios de manera equitativa y balanceada y extender la dimensión de los estudios de planeación para reservas individuales o en redes. Ilustramos el uso de un análisis de criterios espaciales múltiples para determinar la viabilidad de áreas marinas para diferentes usos y niveles de protección. Esta técnica une sistemas de información geográfica (GIS) para estimación y evaluación de suelos con una declaración de prioridades de diseño tal y como es percibida por los diferentes usuarios involucrados. El proceso de planeación, al mismo tiempo que se enfoca en los propósitos principales de la conservación y en su viabilidad, involucra a los principales grupos interesados en la definición de prioridades de tal manera que los conflictos y tensiones pueden ser manejadas. Utilizamos el análisis de criterios espaciales múltiples para integrar datos objetivos con las prioridades contrastantes de los diferentes usuarios en la planeación de un área marina protegida. Los resultados del análisis pueden ser usados como una guía para definir arreglos espaciales óptimos con diferentes niveles de protección. Como caso de estudio desarrollamos un plan de desarrollo de zonificación para una de las áreas marinas protegidas de Italia, la Reserva Nacional Marina de la Isla Asinara. [source] Prescribed Burning to Restore Mixed-Oak Communities in Southern Ohio: Effects on Breeding- Bird PopulationsCONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 5 2001Vanessa L. Artman We studied the effects of repeated burning (1,4 years of annual burning) and recovery (1 year after burning,) on the breeding bird community. Burning resulted in incremental but temporary reductions in the availability of leaf litter, shrubs, and saplings, but it did not affect trees, snags, or understory vegetation cover. Of 30 bird species monitored, 4 were affected negatively and 2 were affected positively by burning. Population densities of Ovenbirds ( Seiurus aurocapillus), Worm-eating Warblers ( Helmitheros vermivorus), and Hooded Warblers ( Wilsonia citrina) declined incrementally in response to repeated burning and did not recover within 1 year after burning, suggesting a lag time in response to the changes in habitat conditions. Densities of Northern Cardinals ( Cardinalis cardinalis) fluctuated among years in the control units, but remained low in the burned units. Densities of American Robins ( Turdus migratorius) and Eastern Wood-Pewees ( Contopus virens) increased in response to burning, but these increases were apparent only after several years of repeated burning. In general, burning resulted in short-term reductions in the suitability of habitat for ground- and low-shrub-nesting birds, but it improved habitat for ground- and aerial-foraging birds. Overall, there were no changes in the composition of the breeding-bird community. Total breeding bird population levels were also unaffected by burning. Our results suggest that prescribed burning applied on a long-term basis or across large spatial scales is likely to have adverse effects on ground- and low-shrub-nesting bird species, but other changes in the composition of the breeding-bird community are likely to be minimal as long as the closed-canopy forest structure is maintained within the context of prescribed burning. Resumen: Se está reintroduciendo fuego artificialmente en los bosque del sur de Ohio para determinar su efectividad para restaurar y mantener comunidades de bosques mixtos de encino ( Quercus spp.). Estudiamos los efectos de quemas repetidas (1,4 años de quema anual,) y de recuperación (1 año después de la quema) sobre la comunidad de aves reproductivas. La quema resultó en reducciones temporales en la disponibilidad de hojarasca, arbustos y renuevos, pero no afectó a los árboles, tocones o la cubierta vegetal del sotobosque. De 30 especies de aves monitoredas, 4 fueron afectadas negativamente por la quema y 2 fueron afectadas positivamente. Las densidades de población de Seiurus aurocapillus, de Helmitheros vermivorus y de Wilsonia citrina declinaron incrementalmente en respuesta a quemas repetidas y no se recuperaron en un año después de la quema, sugiriendo un retraso en el tiempo de respuesta a los cambios en las condiciones del hábitat. Las densidades de Cardinalis cardinalis fluctuaron entre años en las unidades control, pero permanecieron bajas en las unidades quemadas. Las densidades de Turdus migratorius y de Contopus virens aumentaron en respuesta a la quema, pero estos incrementos fueron evidentes sólo hasta varios años después de quemas repetidas. En general, en el corto plazo la quema resultó en reducciones en la calidad del hábitat para aves que anidan sobre el suelo y en arbustos bajos, pero mejoró el hábitat para aves que forrajean en el suelo y el aire. En general, no hubo cambios en la composición de la comunidad de aves reproductivas. Los niveles totales de poblaciones de aves reproductivas tampoco fueron afectados por la quema. Nuestros resultados sugieren la posibilidad de que la quema prescrita aplicada a largo plazo o en escalas espaciales grandes tenga efectos adversos sobre especies de aves que anidan sobre el suelo y en arbustos bajos, pero la posibilidad de cambios en la composición de la comunidad de aves reproductivas es mínima. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||