nclex-rn pass rates: Topics by Science.gov

Sample records for nclex-rn pass rates

Comparing NET and ERI standardized exam scores between baccalaureate graduates who pass or fail the NCLEX-RN.

PubMed

Bondmass, Mary D; Moonie, Sheniz; Kowalski, Susan

2008-01-01

In the United States, nursing programs are commonly evaluated by their graduates success on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The purpose of this paper is to describe a change in NCLEX-RN success rates following the addition of standardized exams throughout our program's curriculum, and to compare these exam scores between graduates who pass NCLEX-RN and those who do not. Our results indicate an 8.5% change (p < 0.000) in the NCLEX-RN pass rate from our previous 5-year mean pass rate, and significant differences in standardized test scores for those who pass the NCLEX-RN compared to those who do not (p < 0.03). We conclude that our selected standardized exam scores are able to significantly identify graduates who are more likely to pass NCLEX-RN than not.
Learning Style as a Predictor of First-Time NCLEX-RN Success: Implications for Nurse Educators.

PubMed

Lown, Susan G; Hawkins, Lee Ann

Improving NCLEX-RN® pass rates remains a priority for nursing programs. Many programs collect learning style inventory data, yet few studies have looked at relationships between these data and NCLEX-RN pass/fail rates. Learning style preferences (visual, auditory, tactile, individual, group) and NCLEX pass/fail results were examined for 532 undergraduates in a Midwestern university. A significant correlation between preference for group learning and failure of the NCLEX was found (χ = 5.99, P = .05).
Strategies for lowering attrition rates and raising NCLEX-RN pass rates.

PubMed

Higgins, Bonnie

2005-12-01

This study was designed to determine strategies to raise the NCLEX-RN pass rate and lower the attrition rate in a community college nursing program. Ex-post facto data were collected from 213 former nursing student records. Qualitative data were collected from 10 full-time faculty, 30 new graduates, and 45 directors of associate degree nursing programs in Texas. The findings linked the academic variables of two biology courses and three components of the preadmission test to completion of the nursing program. A relationship was found between one biology course, the science component of the preadmission test, the HESI Exit Examination score, and the nursing skills course to passing the NCLEX-RN. Qualitative data indicated preadmission requirements, campus counselors, remediation, faculty, test-item writing, and teaching method were instrumental in completion of the program and passing the NCLEX-RN.
Predictors of NCLEX-RN Success of Associate Degree Graduates: A Correlational Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kehm, Bonny J.

2013-01-01

The outcome of Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) students not passing the initial National Council of Licensure Examination for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN) can adversely affect schools of nursing. This failure also adversely affects the national nursing shortage. The declining national pass rates on the NCLEX-RN for ADN graduates and the increasing…
NCLEX-RN Examination Performance by BSN Graduates of Four Historically Black Colleges and Universities

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Chesney, Anita M.

2010-01-01

This qualitative multiple-case study research explored and described differences as well as NCLEX-RN preparation strategies used by Historically Black College and University (HBCU) baccalaureate nursing programs with consistent NCLEX pass rates versus those with inconsistent pass rates. Two of the four selected programs had a history of consistent…
Academic and Demographic Predictors of NCLEX-RN Pass Rates in First- and Second-Degree Accelerated BSN Programs.

PubMed

Kaddoura, Mahmoud A; Flint, Elizabeth P; Van Dyke, Olga; Yang, Qing; Chiang, Li-Chi

Relatively few studies have addressed predictors of first-attempt outcomes (pass-fail) on the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) for accelerated BSN programs. The purpose of this study was to compare potential predictors of NCLEX outcomes in graduates of first-degree accelerated (FDA; n=62) and second-degree accelerated (SDA; n=173) BSN programs sharing a common nursing curriculum. In this retrospective study, bivariate analyses and multiple logistic regression assessed significance of selected demographic and academic characteristics as predictors of NCLEX-RN outcomes. FDA graduates were more likely than SDA graduates to fail the NCLEX-RN (P=.0013). FDA graduates were more likely to speak English as a second or additional language (P<.0001), have lower end-of-program GPA and HESI Exit Exam scores (both P<.0001), and have a higher proportions of grades ≤ C (P=.0023). All four variables were significant predictors of NCLEX-RN outcomes within both FDA and SDA programs. The only significant predictors in adjusted logistic regression of NCLEX-RN outcome for the pooled FDA+SDA graduate sample were proportion of grades ≤ C (a predictor of NCLEX-RN failure) and HESI Exit Exam score (a predictor of passing NCLEX-RN). Grades of C or lower on any course may indicate inadequate mastery of critical NCLEX-RN content and increased risk of NCLEX-RN failure. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Decision-Tree Analysis for Predicting First-Time Pass/Fail Rates for the NCLEX-RN® in Associate Degree Nursing Students.

PubMed

Chen, Hsiu-Chin; Bennett, Sean

2016-08-01

Little evidence shows the use of decision-tree algorithms in identifying predictors and analyzing their associations with pass rates for the NCLEX-RN(®) in associate degree nursing students. This longitudinal and retrospective cohort study investigated whether a decision-tree algorithm could be used to develop an accurate prediction model for the students' passing or failing the NCLEX-RN. This study used archived data from 453 associate degree nursing students in a selected program. The chi-squared automatic interaction detection analysis of the decision trees module was used to examine the effect of the collected predictors on passing/failing the NCLEX-RN. The actual percentage scores of Assessment Technologies Institute®'s RN Comprehensive Predictor(®) accurately identified students at risk of failing. The classification model correctly classified 92.7% of the students for passing. This study applied the decision-tree model to analyze a sequence database for developing a prediction model for early remediation in preparation for the NCLEXRN. [J Nurs Educ. 2016;55(8):454-457.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.
Accelerated second-degree nursing students: predictors of graduation and NCLEX-RN first-time pass rates.

PubMed

Penprase, Barbara B; Harris, Margaret A

2013-01-01

It is important to understand and identify factors that affect students' academic performance before entry into a nursing program and as they progress through the program. The authors discuss a study, and its outcomes, that assessed accelerated second-degree nursing students' prenursing and core nursing grades that served to predict their success at completing the nursing program and passing NCLEX-RN on first attempt. Strategies were identified to help at-risk students to be successful in the program and with first-time passage of NCLEX-RN.
Simulation Performance and National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses Outcomes: Field Research Perspectives.

PubMed

Brackney, Dana E; Lane, Susan Hayes; Dawson, Tyia; Koontz, Angie

2017-11-01

This descriptive field study examines processes used to evaluate simulation for senior-level Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students in a capstone course, discusses challenges related to simulation evaluation, and reports the relationship between faculty evaluation of student performance and National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) first-time passing rates. Researchers applied seven terms used to rank BSN student performance (n = 41, female, ages 22-24 years) in a senior-level capstone simulation. Faculty evaluation was correlated with students' NCLEX-RN outcomes. Students evaluated as "lacking confidence" and "flawed" were less likely to pass the NCLEX-RN on the first attempt. Faculty evaluation of capstone simulation performance provided additional evidence of student preparedness for practice in the RN role, as evidenced by the relationship between the faculty assessment and NCLEX-RN success. Simulation has been broadly accepted as a powerful educational tool that may also contribute to verification of student achievement of program outcomes and readiness for the RN role.
Impact of a standardized test package on exit examination scores and NCLEX-RN outcomes.

PubMed

Homard, Catherine M

2013-03-01

The purpose of this ex post facto correlational study was to compare exit examination scores and NCLEX-RN(®) pass rates of baccalaureate nursing students who differed in level of participation in a standardized test package. Three cohort groups emerged as a standardized test package was introduced: (a) students who did not participate in a standardized test package; (b) students with two semesters of a standardized test package; and (c) students with four semesters of a standardized test package. Benner's novice-to-expert theory framed the study in the belief that students best acquire knowledge and skills through practice and reflection. Students participating in four semesters of a standardized test package demonstrated higher exit examination scores and NCLEX-RN pass rates compared with students who did not participate in this package. This study's results could inform nurse educators about strategies to facilitate nursing student success on exit examinations and the NCLEX-RN. Copyright 2013, SLACK Incorporated.
Self-Esteem, Locus of Control, and First-Time NCLEX-RN Passage of BSN Students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

PubMed

Chavis, Pamella Ivey

Relationships between self-esteem, locus of control (LOC), and first-time passage of National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN®) were examined at baccalaureate nursing programs at two historically black colleges and universities. Shortages continue to exceed demands for RNs prepared at the baccalaureate level. Inconsistent pass rates on the NCLEX-RN for graduates of historically black colleges and universities impede the supply of RNs. Surveys and archival data were used to examine characteristics of the sample and explore relationships among variables. All participants (N = 90) reported high self-esteem and internal LOC. Models suggested that all those with high self-esteem and internal LOC would pass the NCLEX-RN; only 85 percent passed the first time. Statistical analysis revealed a lack of statistical significance between self-esteem, LOC, and first-time passage. Variables not included in the study may have affected first-time passage.
Use of Standardized Mastery Content Assessments Given during the First Year of a Baccalaureate Nursing Program for Predicting NCLEX-RN Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Emory, DeAnna Jan

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between standardized content specific mastery assessments and NCLEX-RN outcomes. Three content-specific standardized assessments testing Fundamentals, Pharmacology and Mental Health concepts were used to explain the dichotomous NCLEX-RN outcome of pass or fail. The three assessments were…
Study groups: are they effective in preparing students for NCLEX-RN?

PubMed

Ashley, J; O'Neil, J

1994-10-01

The effectiveness of faculty-directed study groups as an intervention to prepare nurse candidates for NCLEX-RN was evaluated. The NCLEX-RN performance of a baccalaureate class who had participated in study groups was compared to the performance of a prior class who had not participated in study groups. Academic subgroups within the classes were compared to determine if study groups were equally effective across levels of academic achievement. The possible reasons for the significant difference in the NCLEX-RN passing rate between "at-risk" students who participated in study groups and at-risk students who did not participate in study groups are discussed. Discussion also considers possible factors influencing the generally better performance of study group participants at all academic levels. Suggestions for future intervention research direct attention to time intensity of interventions and research control through random assignments to treatment groups.
A Comparative Analysis of Demographic and Academic Characteristics and NCLEX-RN Passing among Urban and Rural Campus Students in a Midwest Associate Degree Nursing Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nacos-Burds, Kathleen J.

2010-01-01

A retrospective study was initiated to determine: (1) the predictive relationship between demographic and academic variables and NCLEX-RN success; and (2) if there were significant differences between urban and rural nursing students that could account for an increased percentage of rural NCLEX-RN failures. A convenience sample was comprised of…
Exploring longitudinal shifts in international nurse migration to the United States between 2003 and 2013 through a random effects panel data analysis.

PubMed

Squires, Allison; Ojemeni, Melissa T; Jones, Simon

2016-06-30

No study has examined the longitudinal trends in National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) applicants and pass rates among internationally-educated nurses (IENs) seeking to work in the United States, nor has any analysis explored the impact of specific events on these trends, including changes to the NCLEX-RN exam, the role of the economic crisis, or the passing of the WHO Code on the International Recruitment of Health Personnel. This study seeks to understand the impact of the three aforementioned factors that may be influencing current and future IEN recruitment patterns in the United States. In this random effects panel data analysis, we analyzed 11 years (2003-2013) of annual IEN applicant numbers and pass rates for registered nurse credentialing. Data were obtained from publicly available reports on exam pass rates. With the global economic crisis and NCLEX-RN changes in 2008 coupled with the WHO Code passage in 2010, we sought to compare if (1) the number of applicants changed significantly after those 2 years and (2) if pass rates changed following exam modifications implemented in 2008 and 2011. A total of 177 countries were eligible for inclusion in this analysis, representing findings from 200,453 IEN applicants to the United States between 2003 and 2013. The majority of applicants were from the Philippines (58 %) and India (11 %), with these two countries combined representing 69 % of the total. Candidates from Sub-Saharan African countries totalled 7133 (3 % of all applications) over the study period, with half of these coming from Nigeria alone. No significant changes were found in the number of candidates following the 2008 economic crisis or the 2010 WHO Code, although pass rates decreased significantly following the 2008 exam modifications and the WHO Code implementation. This study suggests that, while the WHO Code has had an influence on overall IEN migration dynamics to the United States by decreasing candidate numbers, in most cases, the WHO Code was not the single cause of these fluctuations. Indeed, the impact of the NCLEX-RN exam changes appears to exert a larger influence.
Nursing Students' Nonacademic Barriers to Success on High Stakes Exams

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Bussen, Jennifer A.

2016-01-01

Every nursing program wants its graduates to pass the NCLEX-RN licensure examination the first time they take it. For those who fail, entry into practice is delayed until they can pass the NCLEX-RN. The nursing programs that graduated students who fail may experience a loss of reputation, decreased numbers of potential applicants, and, ultimately,…
Preparing underemployed Latino U.S. nurses through the Mexico NCLEX-RN Success Program.

PubMed

Lujan, Josefina; Little, Kermit

2010-12-01

The critical nursing shortage in U.S. communities along the United States-Mexico border is compounded by the need for nurses who are linguistically and culturally concordant with the growing number of Latinos in these communities. The innovative 16-week Mexico NCLEX-RN Success Program responds to this need by helping underemployed Latino nurses, who were educated in Mexico and live in the United States, adapt linguistically and culturally to multiple-choice testing. Ten of the program students have taken the NCLEX-RN with a 50% pass rate, which is twice as high as the internationally educated candidate passing average. This demonstrates potential for the program to build the human capacity of U.S. communities along the United States-Mexico border by infusing linguistically and culturally concordant nurses into the workforce and materializing the dream of underemployed Latino nurses to implement their hard-earned and urgently needed nursing skills. Lessons learned from the program are discussed. Copyright 2010, SLACK Incorporated.
The predictive ability of critical thinking, nursing GPA, and SAT scores on first-time NCLEX-RN performance.

PubMed

Romeo, Elizabeth M

2013-01-01

This study was conducted to investigate the predictability of several variables in achieving first-time success on the NCLEX-RN. Several researchers have attempted to investigate the differences between students who passed the NCLEX-RN the first time and those who failed. No studies used a large enough failure group to have statistical significance. The three specific variables in this study were nursing GPA, SAT combined math and verbal scores, and critical thinking measured on a standardized assessment examination. An ex post facto study design was used to examine data from the records of associate degree nursing graduates during a three-year period. The most significant predictors of NCLEX-RN success were the students' nursing GPA and the overall standardized assessment examination score. The findings of this study could potentially influence the identification of students at risk for NCLEX-RN failure.
Evaluation of a Secure Laptop-Based Testing Program in an Undergraduate Nursing Program: Students' Perspective.

PubMed

Tao, Jinyuan; Gunter, Glenda; Tsai, Ming-Hsiu; Lim, Dan

2016-01-01

Recently, the many robust learning management systems, and the availability of affordable laptops, have made secure laptop-based testing a reality on many campuses. The undergraduate nursing program at the authors' university began to implement a secure laptop-based testing program in 2009, which allowed students to use their newly purchased laptops to take quizzes and tests securely in classrooms. After nearly 5 years' secure laptop-based testing program implementation, a formative evaluation, using a mixed method that has both descriptive and correlational data elements, was conducted to seek constructive feedback from students to improve the program. Evaluation data show that, overall, students (n = 166) believed the secure laptop-based testing program helps them get hands-on experience of taking examinations on the computer and gets them prepared for their computerized NCLEX-RN. Students, however, had a lot of concerns about laptop glitches and campus wireless network glitches they experienced during testing. At the same time, NCLEX-RN first-time passing rate data were analyzed using the χ2 test, and revealed no significant association between the two testing methods (paper-and-pencil testing and the secure laptop-based testing) and students' first-time NCLEX-RN passing rate. Based on the odds ratio, however, the odds of students passing NCLEX-RN the first time was 1.37 times higher if they were taught with the secure laptop-based testing method than if taught with the traditional paper-and-pencil testing method in nursing school. It was recommended to the institution that better quality of laptops needs to be provided to future students, measures needed to be taken to further stabilize the campus wireless Internet network, and there was a need to reevaluate the Laptop Initiative Program.
NCLEX-RN performance: predicting success on the computerized examination.

PubMed

Beeman, P B; Waterhouse, J K

2001-01-01

Since the adoption of the Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) format of the National Certification Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN), no studies have been reported in the literature on predictors of successful performance by baccalaureate nursing graduates on the licensure examination. In this study, a discriminant analysis was used to identify which of 21 variables can be significant predictors of success on the CAT NCLEX-RN. The convenience sample consisted of 289 individuals who graduated from a baccalaureate nursing program between 1995 and 1998. Seven significant predictor variables were identified. The total number of C+ or lower grades earned in nursing theory courses was the best predictor, followed by grades in several individual nursing courses. More than 93 per cent of graduates were correctly classified. Ninety-four per cent of NCLEX "passes" were correctly classified, as were 92 per cent of NCLEX failures. This degree of accuracy in classifying CAT NCLEX-RN failures represents a marked improvement over results reported in previous studies of licensure examinations, and suggests the discriminant function will be helpful in identifying future students in danger of failure. J Prof Nurs 17:158-165, 2001. Copyright 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company

Laying the Groundwork for NCLEX Success: An Exploration of Adaptive Quizzing as an Examination Preparation Method.

PubMed

Cox-Davenport, Rebecca A; Phelan, Julia C

2015-05-01

First-time NCLEX-RN pass rates are an important indicator of nursing school success and quality. Nursing schools use different methods to anticipate NCLEX outcomes and help prevent student failure and possible threat to accreditation. This study evaluated the impact of a shift in NCLEX preparation policy at a BSN program in the southeast United States. The policy shifted from the use of predictor score thresholds to determine graduation eligibility to a more proactive remediation strategy involving adaptive quizzing. A descriptive correlational design evaluated the impact of an adaptive quizzing system designed to give students ongoing active practice and feedback and explored the relationship between predictor examinations and NCLEX success. Data from student usage of the system as well as scores on predictor tests were collected for three student cohorts. Results revealed a positive correlation between adaptive quizzing system usage and content mastery. Two of the 69 students in the sample did not pass the NCLEX. With so few students failing the NCLEX, predictability of any course variables could not be determined. The power of predictor examinations to predict NCLEX failure could also not be supported. The most consistent factor among students, however, was their content mastery level within the adaptive quizzing system. Implications of these findings are discussed.
Predictors for Associate Degree Nursing Students' First Attempt on NCLEX-RN

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Smith, Barbara A.

2011-01-01

Nursing program administrators need to identify significant predictors for associate degree nursing (ADN) students to determine characteristics of those who will most likely pass the NCLEX-RN® on the first attempt. The purpose of the quantitative study with a correlation prediction design was to determine if a relationship existed between the…
Tutoring for Success: Empowering Graduate Nurses After Failure on the NCLEX-RN.

PubMed

Lutter, Stacy L; Thompson, Cheryl W; Condon, Marian C

2017-12-01

Failure on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a devastating experience. Most research related to NCLEX-RN is focused on predicting and preventing failure. Despite these efforts, more than 20,000 nursing school graduates experience failure on the NCLEX-RN each year, and there is a paucity of literature regarding remediation after failure. The aim of this article is to describe an individualized tutoring approach centered on establishing a trusting relationship and incorporating two core strategies for remediation: the nugget method, and a six-step strategy for question analysis. This individualized tutoring method has been used by three nursing faculty with a 95% success rate on an NCLEX retake attempt. Further research is needed to identify the elements of this tutoring method that influence success. [J Nurs Educ. 2017;56(12):758-761.]. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.
Faculty support for ESL nursing students: action plan for success.

PubMed

Hansen, Eileen; Beaver, Shirley

2012-01-01

Nursing students whose first language is not English have lower retention and NCLEX-RN pass rates. This review identifies four areas of difficulty and recommends strategies that can be employed by supportive faculty to assist these students and help ensure a more diverse nursing workforce to care for our increasingly diverse patient population.
People are failing! Something needs to be done: Canadian students' experience with the NCLEX-RN.

PubMed

McGillis Hall, Linda; Lalonde, Michelle; Kashin, Jordana

2016-11-01

Canada's nurse regulators adopted the NCLEX as the entry-to-practice licensing exam for Canada's registered nurses effective January 2015. It is important to determine whether any issues from this change emerged for nursing students in preparing for and taking this new exam. To explore the experiences of Canadian graduate student nurses who were the first to write the NCLEX examination for entry to practice in Canada, determine whether any issues with implementation were identified and how these could be addressed. A qualitative study. Thematic analysis of semi-structured interview data obtained through interviews with 202 graduate Canadian nursing students was the methodology employed in this study. The predominant theme that emerged from the interview data was policy related issues that students identified with preparing for and taking the NCLEX. Sub-themes included: a) temporary test centre concerns, b) perceptions of American context and content on the exam, c) lack of French language resources and translation issues, d) the limited number of opportunities to write the exam, e) communication and engagement with regulators, f) financial costs incurred and g) reputational costs for the Canadian nursing profession. The experiences of study participants with NCLEX implementation in Canada were less than positive. This is of critical importance given the pass rates for first-time NCLEX writers in Canada were reported as 69.7%, substantially lower than pass rates on the previous Canadian entry-to-practice exam. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Components of US Associate Degree Nursing Programs and Their Relationship to the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses Graduate Pass Rates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Popescu, Caroline A.

2011-01-01

The nursing shortage has accelerated the need for nursing programs to discover program components related to success on the NCLEX-RN. As the demand for nurses is growing, nursing programs have been called upon to help find solutions to the problem. This study attempted to contribute to the resolution of the shortage and provide nursing educators…
Predictors of Retention and Passing National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Elkins, Nancy

2013-01-01

The current nursing shortage has challenged colleges to educate nurses at a faster pace than in previous times. Successful completion of the nursing programs and passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) exam is important for the students, faculty, and nursing programs. The purpose of this retrospective…
Predictors of Success and Failure for ADN Students on the NCLEX-RN

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Benefiel, Diane

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study was to: 1) analyze the relationship of preprogram and nursing program variables on National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) success and failure, and 2) develop a model to predict success and failure on the NCLEX-RN. The convenience sample was comprised of 245 spring, summer, and fall midterm…
Program Exit Examinations in Nursing Education: Using a Value Added Assessment as a Measure of the Impact of a New Curriculum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morris, Tama; Hancock, Dawson

2008-01-01

To become a registered nurse in the United States, one must pass the National Council License Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). To address the growing national nursing shortage, nurse preparation programs must better prepare students to pass this national licensure examination. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a new…
Affirming At-Risk Minorities for Success (ARMS): retention, graduation, and success on the NCLEX-RN.

PubMed

Sutherland, Judith A; Hamilton, Mary Jane; Goodman, Nancy

2007-08-01

Increasing ethnic and racial diversity in the U.S. population combined with inadequate minority representation in the nursing profession requires innovative strategies to recruit, retain, and graduate nurses from diverse ethnic and racial populations. Affirming At-Risk Minorities for Success (ARMS) was funded by a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Basic Nurse Education and Practice Program grant. Participants (N = 64) were enrolled in a baccalaureate degree nursing program that has been predominantly White/ Anglo and is located in the south-central region of the United States. Research objectives were to increase program retention, graduation rates, and success on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) for minority or educationally disadvantaged students through programmatic interventions, including mentoring and advising, tutoring, and educational seminars. The comparison group was non-ARMS students derived from a comprehensive database (N = 265). Results indicated that interventions positively affected graduation rates (measure of retention = 98%), significantly affected grades in the Leadership-Management capstone course, and eliminated the effects of ethnicity on NCLEX-RN success.
Simulation: The Effects of Simulation on High Stakes Testing in Undergradute Nursing Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Walters, Linda

2014-01-01

Many nursing programs use standardized testing packages in order to evaluate students' content mastery as well as predict probability of passing the National Council Licensure for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Instead of a diagnosis for weak content areas, programs implement testing policies in the belief that such policies ensure student success…
The answer is questions: accelerated-nursing students report practice questions are fundamental to first-time NCLEX-RN success.

PubMed

Blozen, Barbara B

2014-01-01

There are a number of anecdotal reports on demographic characteristics and academic success of accelerated-nursing students; yet few empirical studies have examined accelerated-nursing students NCLEX-RN success. Applying Knowles' adult learning theory as a guiding framework, the purpose of this qualitative study was to explore, from the accelerated-nursing students' perspective, the factors reported as contributing to their success on the NCLEX-RN. The research questions aimed to elicit participants' descriptions of their experiences and factors contributing to their success via individual interviews. The most significant finding the participants identified as the factor that contributed to their success was the practicing of NCLEX-RN questions. The findings of this study have several implications for educational policy and practice for universities and schools of nursing as the information gained from this study applies to recruitment and retention as well as curriculum and educational strategies in an accelerated-nursing program.
The Effect of Classroom and Clinical Learning Approaches on Academic Achievement in Associate Degree Nursing Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carrick, Jo Anne

2010-01-01

While many students compete aggressively to enter into nursing schools, those who succeed have no guarantee they will be successful in their nursing studies, graduating, and passing the National Council Licensing Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN[R]). This study's objective was to gain a better understanding of how nursing students approach…
Use of aptitude to understand bachelor of science in nursing student attrition and readiness for the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse.

PubMed

Newton, Sarah E; Moore, Gary

2009-01-01

Attrition is a serious issue among Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) students with attrition rates around 50% nationwide. To help minimize BSN student attrition, many nursing programs use commercially available standardized nursing aptitude tests as adjuncts to scholastic aptitude data, usually operationalized as pre-nursing grade point average, to select students for admission. Little is known regarding the usefulness of scholastic and nursing aptitude data for predicting long-term retention in a BSN program and readiness for the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to describe the relationships among scholastic aptitude, nursing aptitude, BSN student attrition prior to the final semester of the curriculum, and BSN student readiness for the NCLEX-RN. This study's findings, along with other findings in the literature, suggest the need for a parsimonious explanatory model of BSN student attrition that can be used to guide admission and progression policies, and ensure that students ready for the NCLEX-RN are the ones graduating from BSN programs.
Predictors for Success on the NCLEX-RN for Associate Degree Nursing Graduates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Swain, Katrina C.

2012-01-01

The nursing shortage is a national issue that has ignited an increasing demand to address the importance of preparing students to be successful on the initial National Council of Licensure Examination for Registered Nursing (NCLEX-RN). Nursing programs are charged by the Board of Nursing to prepare graduates to be successful on the initial…
Use of NCLEX preparation strategies in a hospital orientation program for graduate nurses.

PubMed

Wray, Karen; Whitehead, Tanya; Setter, Robyn; Treas, Leslie

2006-01-01

This article describes outcomes from the first year of a hospital orientation program for graduate nurses that was expanded to systematize and enrich preparation of graduate nurses for success on the NCLEX-RN licensure examination. The study protocol provided the Assessment Technologies Institute predictor examination to assess risk for licensure examination failure, review materials, and a meeting with an education specialist to identify and prioritize study needs. Those at highest risk for failure were also provided an in-depth written study plan and ongoing follow-up and support until the licensure examination was taken. The study sample consisted of 90 graduate nurses who were hired from May through August of 2005 at the University of Kansas Hospital. The pass rate for participants was 86.7% on the first attempt in year 1 of the program. At-risk graduates who reported that the predictor results impacted their study habits and followed the study recommendations were more likely to pass the licensure examination. Graduate nurses reported a high level of satisfaction with the support provided. Specific challenges faced by hospital nurse administrators in recruitment and retention and return on investment over a 3-year improvement plan are described.
Factors associated with National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse success.

PubMed

Arathuzik, D; Aber, C

1998-01-01

Identification of factors associated with National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) success is critical at public colleges of nursing with diverse student populations. This issue was the purpose of this research study. A descriptive correlational research design was used. Seventy-nine generic senior students enrolled in an urban public university participated in the study. Several internal and external blocks to success were described by the students, including family responsibilities, emotional distress, fatigue, and financial and work burdens. Significant correlations were found between success in the NCLEX-RN and cumulative undergraduate nursing program grade point average, English as the primary language spoken at home, lack of family responsibilities or demands, lack of emotional distress, and sense of competency in critical thinking. Establishment of a comprehensive data base-including factors associated with success in the NCLEX-RN and programs of advisement, tutoring, and stress management as well as classes in study skills, test taking, and NCLEX preparation-are recommended for public colleges of nursing with diverse student populations.
Computerized NCLEX-RN and NCLEX-PN preparation programs. Comparative review, 1997.

PubMed

Riner, M E; Mueller, C; Ihrke, B; Smolen, R A; Wilson, M; Richardson, V; Stone, C; Zwirn, E E

1997-01-01

The computerized test taking market continues to expand to meet the needs of nursing students studying to prepare for the NCLEX-RN and the NCLEX-PN. In addition, currently registered nurses may choose to use these software programs to review clinical knowledge in areas in which they are not currently practicing. This article reviewed software designed for personal use, review books with complete disks, on-site institutional testing and consultation, and school of nursing LANs. The costs of software for personal use is priced reasonably and provides flexibility for students to use as their schedule permits. The cost of institutional licenses is moderate and most programs provide multiple on-site use rights. The marketplace has responded to the computerized NCLEX testing now in place nationally. As new formats are developed and new uses identified, nursing faculty and students can expect to see an expanded use of computerized testing.
An Analysis of Programmatic Variables Relating to the Pass Rates on the Licensure Examination by Practical Nurses in Tennessee Technology Centers

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Simpson, Janis Lee

2013-01-01

The purpose of this quantitative research study was to determine the degree to which Licensed Practical Nursing programmatic variables positively correlate with select Tennessee Technology Center institution pass rates on the licensure examination--NCLEX-PNRTM. This study investigated the relationship between the dependent variable of NCLEX-PNRTM…
Relationshp between Academic Variables and Personality Type to Progression in an Associate Degree Nursing Program and Achievement on NCLEX-RN.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wood, Ione Norma

This retrospective study was done to identify academic and personality variables that predict student progression through an associate degree nursing program and achievement on the National Council Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). The study searched for evidence of a decline in academic ability in the students over the 7…

Locus of Control & Motivation Strategies for Learning Questionnaire: Predictors of Student Success on the ATI Comprehensive Predictor Exam & NCLEX-RN Examination

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Carpenter, Jane H.

2011-01-01

The two purposes of this study were to determine whether locus of control (LOC) was predictive of how a student would perform on the ATI Comprehensive Predictor Exam and the NCLEX-RN, and if the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) provided information that would help determine predictors of success on these two exams. The study…
The Relationship between Post Reach Exit Exam (E[superscript 2]) Failure Remediation and NCLEX-RN Success of Graduates of Baccalaureate Nursing Programs

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Allen, Patricia Gale

2009-01-01

An ex post facto study was conducted to determine whether any relationship exists between remediation post Reach Exit Exam (E[superscript 2]) failure and NCLEX-RN success of graduates of baccalaureate nursing programs. Data was gathered from responses to the seventh annual validity study (V7S) offered to deans and directors of nursing programs by…
HESI admission assessment (A(2)) examination scores, program progression, and NCLEX-RN success in baccalaureate nursing: an exploratory study of dependable academic indicators of success.

PubMed

Hinderer, Katherine A; DiBartolo, Mary C; Walsh, Catherine M

2014-01-01

In an effort to meet the demand for well-educated, high-quality nurses, schools of nursing seek to admit those candidates most likely to have both timely progression and first-time success on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Finding the right combination of academic indicators, which are most predictive of success, continues to be an ongoing challenge for entry-level baccalaureate nursing programs across the United States. This pilot study explored the relationship of a standardized admission examination, the Health Education Systems, Inc. (HESI) Admission Assessment (A(2)) Examination to preadmission grade point average (GPA), science GPA, and nursing GPA using a retrospective descriptive design. In addition, the predictive ability of the A(2) Examination, preadmission GPA, and science GPA related to timely progression and NCLEX-RN success were explored. In a sample of 89 students, no relationship was found between the A(2) Examination and preadmission GPA or science GPA. The A(2) Examination was correlated with nursing GPA and NCLEX-RN success but not with timely progression. Further studies are needed to explore the utility and predictive ability of standardized examinations such as the A(2) Examination and the contribution of such examinations to evidence-based admission decision making. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Thinking strategically: academic-practice relationships: one health system's experience.

PubMed

Wurmser, Teri; Bliss-Holtz, Jane

2011-01-01

Strategic planning and joint leverage of the strengths inherent in the academic and practice arenas of nursing are imperative to confront the challenges facing the profession of nursing and its place within the healthcare team of the future. This article presents a description and discussion of the implementation of several academic-practice partnership initiatives by Meridian Health, a health system located in central New Jersey. Included in the strategies discussed are creation of a support program for nonprofessional employees to become registered nurses; active partnership in the development of an accelerated BSN program; construction of support systems and academic partnerships for staff participation in RN-to-BSN programs; construction of on-site clinical simulation laboratories to foster interprofessional learning; and the implementation of a new BSN program, the first and only generic BSN program in two counties of the state. Outcomes of these academic-practice partnerships also are presented, including number of participants; graduation and NCLEX-RN pass rates; MH nurse vacancy rates; and nurse retention rates after first employment. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Impact of Professional Nursing Tutors on National Council Licensure Examination Success

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mondeik, Shelly L.

2014-01-01

This mixed-methods study examined the impact of professional nursing tutors on National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) success. Thirty-eight nursing student success rates from Northcentral Technical College, a two year technical college in Wisconsin, were analyzed by using NCLEX pass rate information, professional tutoring logs, and a…
Standardized Testing Practices: Effect on Graduation and NCLEX® Pass Rates.

PubMed

Randolph, Pamela K

The use standardized testing in pre-licensure nursing programs has been accompanied by conflicting reports of effective practices. The purpose of this project was to describe standardized testing practices in one states' nursing programs and discover if the use of a cut score or oversight of remediation had any effect on (a) first time NCLEX® pass rates, (b) on-time graduation (OTG) or (c) the combination of (a) and (b). Administrators of 38 nursing programs in one Southwest state were sent surveys; surveys were returned by 34 programs (89%). Survey responses were compared to each program's NCLEX pass rate and on-time graduation rate; t-tests were conducted for significant differences associated with a required minimum score (cut score) and oversight of remediation. There were no significant differences in NCLEX pass or on-time graduation rates related to establishment of a cut score. There was a significant difference when the NCLEX pass rate and on-time graduation rate were combined (Outcome Index "OI") with significantly higher program outcomes (P=.02.) for programs without cut-scores. There were no differences associated with faculty oversight of remediation. The results of this study do not support establishment of a cut-score when implementing a standardized testing. Copyright © 2016. Published by Elsevier Inc.
Use of exit examinations: a criterion for graduation?

PubMed

Cullen, P D

1997-01-01

This study sought to measure the use of exit examinations in nursing schools at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). Fifteen participants from HBCU nursing schools throughout the United States were surveyed to determine current practices related to exit exams. Overall, fourteen schools (93.33%) used an exit exam at the end of their nursing program. However, 73.33% of the participants (11 schools) reported it was mandatory for students to pass the exam as a requirement for graduation. Almost 47% of the participants (7 schools) reported the use of the exit exam was related to NCLEX-RN pass rates, while others reported identification of student needs as the primary reason for using an exit exam. Most participants were very helpful by sharing their innovations. While this small study provided some information on the use of exit examinations, more research is needed to substantiate both the appropriateness and usefulness of their use in baccalaureate degree nursing programs.
KATTS: a framework for maximizing NCLEX-RN performance.

PubMed

McDowell, Betsy M

2008-04-01

A key indicator of the quality of a nursing education program is the performance of its graduates as first-time takers of the NCLEX-RN. As a result, nursing schools are open to strategies that strengthen the performance of their graduates on the examination. The Knowledge base, Anxiety control, Test-Taking Skills (KATTS) framework focuses on the three components of achieving a maximum score on an examination. In KATTS, all three components must be present and in proper balance to maximize a test taker's score. By strengthening not just one but all of these components, graduates can improve their overall test scores significantly. Suggested strategies for strengthening each component of KATTS are provided. This framework has been used successfully in designing remedial tutoring programs and in assisting first-time NCLEX test takers in preparing for the licensing examination.
Quantitative research on critical thinking and predicting nursing students' NCLEX-RN performance.

PubMed

Romeo, Elizabeth M

2010-07-01

The concept of critical thinking has been influential in several disciplines. Both education and nursing in general have been attempting to define, teach, and measure this concept for decades. Nurse educators realize that critical thinking is the cornerstone of the objectives and goals for nursing students. The purpose of this article is to review and analyze quantitative research findings relevant to the measurement of critical thinking abilities and skills in undergraduate nursing students and the usefulness of critical thinking as a predictor of National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN) performance. The specific issues that this integrative review examined include assessment and analysis of the theoretical and operational definitions of critical thinking, theoretical frameworks used to guide the studies, instruments used to evaluate critical thinking skills and abilities, and the role of critical thinking as a predictor of NCLEX-RN outcomes. A list of key assumptions related to critical thinking was formulated. The limitations and gaps in the literature were identified, as well as the types of future research needed in this arena. Copyright 2010, SLACK Incorporated.
Students' Midprogram Content Area Performance as a Predictor of End-of-Program NCLEX Readiness.

PubMed

Brussow, Jennifer A; Dunham, Michelle

2017-12-22

Many programs have implemented end-of-program predictive testing to identify students at risk of NCLEX-RN failure. Unfortunately, for many students, end-of-program testing comes too late. Regression and relative importance analysis were used to explore relationships between 9 content area assessments and an end-of-program assessment shown to be predictive of NCLEX-RN success. Results indicate that scores on assessments for content areas such as medical surgical nursing and care of children are predictive of end-of-program test scores, suggesting that instructors should provide remediation at the first sign of lagging performance.This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives License 4.0 (CCBY-NC-ND), where it is permissible to download and share the work provided it is properly cited. The work cannot be changed in anyway or used commercially without permission from the journal.
Associate Degree Nursing Graduates Perceptions of NCLEX Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Pulito, Judy

2017-01-01

There has been a shortage of registered nurses in the United States for more than a decade, and an aging population is increasing this problem. This study was prompted by the number of associate degree nursing graduates at a Midwestern community college failing the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, which is required for employment. The purpose of this…
The Relationship Between the California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory and Student Learning Outcomes in Baccalaureate Nursing Students.

PubMed

Searing, Lisabeth Meade; Kooken, Wendy Carter

2016-04-01

Critical thinking is the foundation for nurses' decision making. One school of nursing used the California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory (CCTDI) to document improvement in critical thinking dispositions. A retrospective study of 96 nursing students' records examined the relationships between the CCTDI and learning outcomes. Correlational statistics assessed relationships between CCTDI scores and cumulative grade point averages (GPA) and scores on two Health Education Systems Incorporated (HESI) examinations. Ordinal regression assessed predictive relationships between CCTDI scores and science course grades and NCLEX-RN success. First-year CCTDI scores did not predict first-year science grades. Senior-year CCTDI scores did not correlate with cumulative GPA or HESI RN Exit Exam scores, but were weakly correlated with HESI Pharmacology Exam scores. CCTDI scores did not predict NCLEX-RN success. This study did not identify meaningful relationships between critical thinking dispositions, as measured by the CCTDI, and important learning outcomes. The results do not support the efficacy of using the CCTDI in nursing education. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.
A Crisis in Competency: The Strategic and Ethical Imperative to Assessing New Graduate Nurses' Clinical Reasoning.

PubMed

Kavanagh, Joan M; Szweda, Christine

The aim of the study was to assess entry-level competency and practice readiness of newly graduated nurses. Literature on success of new graduates focuses primarily on National Council of State Boards of Nursing Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) pass rates, creating a false and incomplete picture of practice readiness. Posthire and prestart Performance-Based Development System assessments were administered to more than 5,000 newly graduated nurses at a large midwestern academic medical center between July 2010 and July 2015. Aggregate baseline data indicate that only 23 percent of newly graduated nurses demonstrate entry-level competencies and practice readiness. New data suggest that we are losing ground in the quest for entry-level competency. Graduates often are underprepared to operate in the complex field of professional practice where increased patient acuity and decreased length of stay, coupled with a lack of deep learning in our academic nursing programs, have exacerbated a crisis in competency.
An Innovative Academic Progression in Nursing Model in New York State.

PubMed

Markowitz, Marianne; Bastable, Susan B

2017-05-01

The Dual Degree Partnership in Nursing (DDPN) is a unique articulation model created in 2005 between two nursing programs that provides a seamless pathway for students to earn both an associate's degree and a bachelor's degree in nursing while benefiting from the strengths of each program. Archival data has been systematically collected for a decade on admission, progression, retention, satisfaction, graduation, and NCLEX-RN pass rates to measure the reliability, validity, and integrity of this DDPN model for nursing education. The findings demonstrate consistent performance and positive outcomes on all factors measured, which have been benchmarked against available state and national results. This innovative approach to academic progression in nursing is replicable and serves as a prototype to educate more nurses at the baccalaureate level, which directly contributes to the Institute of Medicine's goal of 80% of RNs having a minimum of a bachelor's degree by 2020. [J Nurs Educ. 2017;56(5):266-273.]. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.
Nursing Distance Learning Course Comparison of Assignments and Examination Scores

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mundine, Jennifer

2016-01-01

Nursing programs have embraced distance learning in their curricula, but discussion is ongoing about course assignments and grading criteria to increase examination scores in nursing distance learning courses. Because course examinations are a predictor of success on the postgraduate licensing examination (NCLEX-RN), the purpose of this study was…
Preadmission Academic Achievement Criteria as Predictors of Nursing Program Completion and NCLEX-RN Success

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rogers, Tanya L.

2009-01-01

Admission policies and practices in higher education, including those in nursing programs, are diverse; yet administrators have traditionally relied upon preadmission academic achievement for selection of qualified students. Higher education administrators have the responsibility to serve the institution and all of its constituents, ensuring that…
Predicting National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses Performance

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Whitehead, Charles D.

2016-01-01

The Baccalaureate Nursing program in San Antonio, Texas experienced a decrease in National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) on the first attempt for students graduating between 2009 and 2014 without a clear explanation for the decline. The purpose of this quantitative non-experimental correlational study was to…
A Nursing Workforce Diversity Project: Strategies for Recruitment, Retention, Graduation, and NCLEX-RN Success.

PubMed

Murray, Ted A; Pole, David C; Ciarlo, Erica M; Holmes, Shearon

2016-01-01

The purpose of this article is to describe a collaborative project designed to recruit and retain students from underrepresented minorities and disadvantaged backgrounds into nursing education. Ethnic minorities remain underrepresented in the nursing workforce in comparison to the general population. The numbers of minorities enrolled in nursing education programs are insufficient to meet the health care workforce diversity needs of the future. High school students were provided with a preprofessional education program to prepare them for admission into a nursing program. Retention strategies were implemented for newly admitted and enrolled nursing education students. Twenty-one high school students enrolled in a nursing education program. The students enrolled in the nursing education program graduated and passed the licensure examination. Early recruitment and multiprong retention programs can be successful in diversifying the registered nurse workforce.
Computerized Testing of Level III Associate Degree Nursing Students versus Paper and Pencil Testing Methods

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Gullo, Shirna R.

2014-01-01

Computerized testing may be one solution to enhance performance on the curricular Health Education Systems Inc. (HESI) exam and the National Council Licensure Exam for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Due to the integration of improved technological processes and procedures in healthcare for computerized documentation and electronicmedical records,…
Content Mastery Exams: An Option to Replace Faculty-Generated Final Exams

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Deanna K.

2017-01-01

Determining the most effective means of assessing content mastery as well as preparedness for the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) is a task of all pre-licensure nursing faculty. The records of 331 diploma nursing students were reviewed for this retrospective, descriptive, correlational study that examines…

Admission Criteria, Program Outcomes, and NCLEX-RN(RTM) Success in Second Degree Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Rowland, Janet Wedge

2013-01-01

The purpose of this retrospective study was to examine the outcome performance of second degree students in an Accelerated BSN (ABSN) and an Entry Level MSN (ELMSN) program. In addition to student demographics (ethnicity/race, age, and gender), study variables included admission and end-of-program indicators. Admission criteria included the…
A Revised Admissions Standard for One Community College Nursing Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lown, Maris A.

2010-01-01

Predicting success on the NCLEX-RN is of paramount importance to nursing programs as they are held accountable for this outcome by accrediting agencies and by boards of nursing. This action research study examined the relationship between the NET admission test, anatomy and physiology grades, grade point average (GPA) on admission to the program…
Forecasting Nursing Student Success and Failure on the NCLEX-RN Using Predictor Tests

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Santiago, Lawrence A.

2013-01-01

A severe and worsening nursing shortage exists in the United States. Increasing numbers of new graduate nurses are necessary to meet this demand. To address the concerns of increased nursing demand, leaders of nursing schools must ensure larger numbers of nursing students graduate. Prior to practicing as registered nurses in the United States,…
Predictors of Success on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses among Transfer BSN Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fortier, Mary E.

2010-01-01

This quantitative research study (N=175) examined predictors of first time success on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) among transfer students in a baccalaureate degree program (BSN). The predictors were chosen after an extensive literature review yielded few studies related to this population. Benner's…
A Multiple Case Study of Associate Degree Nursing Student Experiences on NCLEXRN Preparation

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Joseph, Soosannamma

2017-01-01

A major challenge in the nursing education system is to assist nursing students to be successful in the program and on the National Council of Licensing Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Nursing schools have a critical responsibility for contributing to the nation's need for more qualified nurses in order to reduce the impact of the…
New Careers in Nursing: An Effective Model for Increasing Nursing Workforce Diversity.

PubMed

Craft-Blacksheare, Melva

2018-03-01

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing developed the New Careers in Nursing (NCIN) program to address the nursing shortage, increase workforce diversity, and raise the profession's educational level. The program provided scholarships to second-degree underrepresented or economically disadvantaged (UED) students attending an accelerated nursing program to earn a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. A midwestern university received three academic-year cycles of NCIN funding. The program's model, resources, and functioning are described. The NCIN provided exceptional financial and program support that received high marks from participants. During the three award cycles, 20 UED scholars graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Nineteen of the 20 scholars passed the NCLEX-RN on the first attempt. While the NCIN program has ended, nursing school administrators and faculty wishing to promote UED student success should consider using the program's model and resources as the basis for their own program. [J Nurs Educ. 2018;57(3):178-183.]. Copyright 2018, SLACK Incorporated.
The Leader-Clinician Advocate in Advancing Student Clinical Learning.

PubMed

Bleich, Michael R

2017-03-01

The visionary, think-ahead leader realizes a responsibility to ensure that a steady pipeline of qualified professionals exists. In the settings where they lead, academic partnerships can ensure that students are socialized and adequately prepared for existing and emerging job roles. Concept-based learning, NCLEX-RN test plans, and 12 strategies to ensure leader-clinician engagement with students are presented. J Contin Educ Nurs. 2017;48(3):99-101. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.
The Relationship among Health Education Systems, Inc. Progression and Exit Examination Scores, Day or Evening Enrollment, Final Grade Point Average and NCLEX-RN® Success in Associate Degree Nursing Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barnwell-Sanders, Pamela

2015-01-01

Graduates of associate degree (AD) nursing programs form the largest segment of first-time National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN®) test takers, yet also experience the highest rate of NCLEX-RN® failures. NCLEX-RN® failure delays entry into the profession, adding an emotional and financial toll to the unsuccessful…
Impact of HESI Specialty Exams: the ninth HESI Exit Exam validity study.

PubMed

Zweighaft, Elizabeth L

2013-01-01

Using an ex post facto, nonexperimental design, this, the ninth validity study of Elsevier's HESI Exit Exam (E(2)), reexamined the predictive accuracy of the E(2). The value of administering HESI Specialty Exams within the nursing curriculum in terms of E(2) scores was also investigated. The sample was composed of nursing students (N = 3,790) from 63 randomly selected schools-26 baccalaureate, 31 associate degree, and 6 diploma programs-throughout the United States who took the E(2) between September 2008 and August 2009. As in the previous 8 studies, the E(2) was found to be highly accurate (96.61%) in predicting success on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN). Findings also indicated that students who took one or more HESI Specialty Exams during their nursing curriculum had a significantly higher mean E(2) score (P ≤ .0001) than students who did not take HESI Specialty Exams during their nursing curriculum. Of the 8 HESI Specialty Exams investigated, scores on the Critical Care, Pediatrics, and Medical-Surgical specialty exams were most predictive of NCLEX-RN success. Schools of nursing that used HESI Specialty Exams as course final exams had a significantly higher mean E(2) score (P < .01) than schools that used the exams for remediation and practice. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
A Study on the Effects of Collaborative Teaching as Measured by the Student Nurse's HESI-RN Exam Scores in an AD/RN Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Sweeney, Irene O.

2014-01-01

The inquiry to be addressed in this Action Research Study (ARS) is the effective teaching modality that will increase the class average pass rate and reduce the percent of students who do not score 850 or above on the HESI-RN exams. The researcher's intent was to provide data in support of a collaborative teaching environment in which to…
Nursing EDGE: evaluating delegation guidelines in education.

PubMed

Henderson, Deborah; Sealover, Pamela; Sharrer, Vicki; Fusner, Sally; Jones, Sandy; Sweet, Stacie; Blake, Tim

2006-01-01

Delegation, an important concept for nursing students to learn and practice, is central to registered nurse (RN) performance, and important on the NCLEX-RN examination. Nursing faculty members from an ADN program designed a descriptive study to evaluate planned versus actual delegation in the curriculum, and a second study to evaluate an intervention on delegation. Study One assessed the presence of delegation in each nursing course. Statistical analysis compared the planned implementation with the results for student definitions of delegation, and identification of the five rights of delegation based on the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) definition and five rights. Study one results are shared. Study Two utilized a comparison of pre-to-post intervention measures. Students were asked to complete eight steps of a delegation exercise and determine what could be delegated to an unlicensed assistant, and what should be completed by the RN. Answers were coded and entered into SPSS. Statistical analysis compared each student's ability to correctly identify the five rights of delegation prior to the exercise, against the ability to correctly answer five questions two weeks post exercise. Significant improvement (p< 0.05) occurred on each measure. Recommendations are discussed.
Report card: an evaluation of a concept-based curriculum.

PubMed

Giddens, Jean Foret; Morton, Nancy

2010-01-01

This article describes the evaluation of an innovative, concept-based baccalaureate nursing curriculum. Curriculum evaluation is an ongoing process that serves to ensure the delivery of quality education. Findings from surveys and focus groups identified strengths of the new curriculum as the conceptual approach, interactive small-group learning activities, clinical intensives, and early patient care experiences. Issues and challenges identified in the evaluation included perceived repetition of content in the Professional Nursing concept courses, coordination of community-based clinical experiences, a perceived need for greater age-span, pharmacology, and pathophysiology content, and NCLEX-RN preparation. Curriculum revisions based on these findings are described.
Nursing student clinical shift completion as a predictor of NCLEX failure.

PubMed

Woodworth, Julie A

2014-01-01

As competition for clinical sites increases, hospitals and nursing schools report the use of nontraditional student placements such as one 12-hour clinical shift; that was an option offered by the author's school. The author discusses implementation of 12-hour shifts and compared NCLEX fail rates of students on one 12-hour shift with students who had 2 weekly 6-hour shifts.
Comparison of native versus nonnative English-speaking nurses on critical thinking assessments at entry and exit.

PubMed

Whitehead, Tanya D

2006-01-01

Diversity of language among healthcare employees and nursing students is growing as diversity increases among the general population. Institutions have begun to develop systems to accommodate diversity and to assimilate workers. One barrier to nonnative English-speaking nurse hires may be posed by readiness for the licensure exam and the critical thinking assessments that are now an expected outcome of nursing programs, and act as a gatekeeper to graduation and to employment. To assist in preparing for high-stakes testing, the Assessment Technologies Institute Critical Thinking Assessment was developed in compliance with credentialing bodies' educational outcomes criteria. This pilot study of 209 nursing students was designed to reveal any possible language bias that might act as a barrier to nonnative English speakers. Nursing students were entered as whole classes to the study to control for selection bias. A sample representative of national nursing enrollment was obtained from 21 universities, with 192 (92%) native English-speaking students and 17 (8%) nonnative English speakers participating in the study. All students were given the Assessment Technologies Institute Critical Thinking Assessment at entry and exit to their nursing program. Average scores on entry were 66% for nonnative speakers and 72% for native speakers. At exit, the nonnative speakers had closed the gap in academic outcomes. They had an average score of 72% compared to 73% for native speakers. The study found that the slight differences between the native and nonnative speakers on 2 exit outcome measures-National Council licensure examination (NCLEX-RN) pass rates and Critical Thinking Assessment-were not statistically significant, demonstrating that nonnative English speakers achieved parity with native English-speaking peers on the Critical Thinking Assessment tool, which is often believed to be related to employment readiness.
A cognitive behavioral course for at-risk senior nursing students preparing to take the NCLEX.

PubMed

Poorman, Susan G; Mastorovich, Melissa L; Liberto, Terri L; Gerwick, Michele

2010-01-01

For some nursing students, the stress of preparing for and taking the NCLEX can lead to maladaptive behaviors such as poor test performance and inadequate preparation. A different approach to NCLEX preparation for at-risk seniors is described. A 3-credit course that combines cognitive behavioral techniques, metacognitive strategies, test-taking strategies, and simulated NCLEX experience with practice questions is presented. Students also develop an individualized plan of preparation from graduation until they take the NCLEX.
Using Computer-Adaptive Quizzing as a Tool for National Council Licensure Examination Success.

PubMed

Pence, Jill; Wood, Felecia

This study examined the relationship between using computer-adaptive quizzing (CAQ) and first-time National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) success. A retrospective, descriptive, correlational design was used to analyze the relationship between use of a CAQ program and first-time NCLEX results of 194 baccalaureate graduates. Chi-square analysis suggested that there was an association between using the software and NCLEX success (p < .001, df = 1), with 16 percent of those without access compared to 1 percent with access being unsuccessful on the licensure exam. Results support using CAQ as formative preparation for the NCLEX.
An Investigation of NCLEX-PN Performance and Student Perceptions among Practical Nursing Graduates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Abston-Coleman, Sharon L.; Levy, Dessie R.

2010-01-01

Students in practical nursing programs require 32 weeks of coursework (1 academic year) and completion of a national licensing exam (NCLEX-PN) to secure employment. The purpose of this study was to identify selected academic variables that were related to NCLEX-PN performance for first-time test takers of two types of practical nursing programs at…
Enhancing Student Learning: RN CAT Advisement Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Donaldson, Susan K.

This document describes a community college advisement program that was implemented to improve the student pass rate for the national nursing licensure examination. The nursing faculty at Manatee Community College (Florida) recently instituted an advisement system during the final semester of the two-year nursing program. First, students were…
An Academic-Service Partnership: A System-Wide Approach and Case Report.

PubMed

Bay, Esther H; Tschannen, Dana J

2017-06-01

An academic-service partnership was formed to increase educational capacity, improve evidence-based nursing at the point of care, and engage staff nurses, clinical faculty, and students in patient and family care. This case report reflects an overview of the first year of full implementation, and survey results from nurse leaders and faculty at the 3-year time point. Following its third year of an academic-service partnership, the shared mission, vision, and values have resulted in stronger NCLEX-RN results, improved quality initiatives, and trends for improvements in patient outcomes. Alignment with faculty and mentors surrounding student expectations has improved, as well as shared evidence-based practices. Sustaining an academic-service partnership requires dedicated leaders, faculty, and mentors. This partnership continues to thrive and move toward excellence in patient- and family-centered outcomes and undergraduate clinical education. [J Nurs Educ. 2017;56(6):373-377.]. Copyright 2017, SLACK Incorporated.
Developing and evaluating innovative items for the NCLEX: Part 2, item characteristics and cognitive processing.

PubMed

Wendt, Anne; Harmes, J Christine

2009-01-01

This article is a continuation of the research on the development and evaluation of innovative item formats for the NCLEX examinations that was published in the March/April 2009 edition of Nurse Educator. The authors discuss the innovative item templates and evaluate the statistical characteristics and level of cognitive processing required to answer the examination items.

Measurement of 222Rn and 220Rn exhalation rate from soil samples of Kumaun Hills, India

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Semwal, Poonam; Singh, Kuldeep; Agarwal, T. K.; Joshi, Manish; Pant, Preeti; Kandari, Tushar; Ramola, R. C.

2018-03-01

The source terms, i.e., exhalation and emanation from soil and building materials are the primary contributors to the radon (222Rn)/thoron (220Rn) concentration levels in the dwellings, while the ecological constraints like ventilation rate, temperature, pressure, humidity, etc., are the influencing factors. The present study is focused on Almora District of Kumaun, located in Himalayan belt of Uttarakhand, India. For the measurement of 222Rn and 220Rn exhalation rates, 24 soil samples were collected from different locations. Gamma radiation level was measured at each of these locations. Chamber technique associated with Smart Rn Duo portable monitor was employed for the estimation of 222Rn and 220Rn exhalation rates. Radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th and 40K) concentrations were also measured in soil samples using NaI(Tl) scintillation based gamma ray spectrometry. The mass exhalation rate for 222Rn was varying between 16 and 54 mBq/kg/h, while the 220Rn surface exhalation rate was in the range of 0.65-6.43 Bq/m2/s. Measured gamma dose rate for the same region varied from 0.10 to 0.31 µSv/h. Inter-correlation of exhalation rates and intra-correlation with background gamma levels were studied.
Attrition and success rates of accelerated students in nursing courses: a systematic review.

PubMed

Doggrell, Sheila Anne; Schaffer, Sally

2016-01-01

There is a comprehensive literature on the academic outcomes (attrition and success) of students in traditional/baccalaureate nursing programs, but much less is known about the academic outcomes of students in accelerated nursing programs. The aim of this systematic review is to report on the attrition and success rates (either internal examination or NCLEX-RN) of accelerated students, compared to traditional students. For the systematic review, the databases (Pubmed, Cinahl and PsychINFO) and Google Scholar were searched using the search terms 'accelerated' or 'accreditation for prior learning', 'fast-track' or 'top up' and 'nursing' with 'attrition' or 'retention' or 'withdrawal' or 'success' from 1994 to January 2016. All relevant articles were included, regardless of quality. The findings of 19 studies of attrition rates and/or success rates for accelerated students are reported. For international accelerated students, there were only three studies, which are heterogeneous, and have major limitations. One of three studies has lower attrition rates, and one has shown higher success rates, than traditional students. In contrast, another study has shown high attrition and low success for international accelerated students. For graduate accelerated students, most of the studies are high quality, and showed that they have rates similar or better than traditional students. Thus, five of six studies have shown similar or lower attrition rates. Four of these studies with graduate accelerated students and an additional seven studies of success rates only, have shown similar or better success rates, than traditional students. There are only three studies of non-university graduate accelerated students, and these had weaknesses, but were consistent in reporting higher attrition rates than traditional students. The paucity and weakness of information available makes it unclear as to the attrition and/or success of international accelerated students in nursing programs. The good information available suggests that accelerated programs may be working reasonably well for the graduate students. However, the limited information available for non-university graduate students is weak, but consistent, in suggesting they may struggle in accelerated courses. Further studies are needed to determine the attrition and success rates of accelerated students, particularly for international and non-university graduate students.
Evaluating innovative items for the NCLEX, part I: usability and pilot testing.

PubMed

Wendt, Anne; Harmes, J Christine

2009-01-01

National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has recently conducted preliminary research on the feasibility of including various types of innovative test questions (items) on the NCLEX. This article focuses on the participants' reactions to and their strategies for interacting with various types of innovative items. Part 2 in the May/June issue will focus on the innovative item templates and evaluation of the statistical characteristics and the level of cognitive processing required to answer the examination items.
Nurse staffing levels and Medicaid reimbursement rates in nursing facilities.

PubMed

Harrington, Charlene; Swan, James H; Carrillo, Helen

2007-06-01

To examine the relationship between nursing staffing levels in U.S. nursing homes and state Medicaid reimbursement rates. Facility staffing, characteristics, and case-mix data were from the federal On-Line Survey Certification and Reporting (OSCAR) system and other data were from public sources. Ordinary least squares and two-stage least squares regression analyses were used to separately examine the relationship between registered nurse (RN) and total nursing hours in all U.S. nursing homes in 2002, with two endogenous variables: Medicaid reimbursement rates and resident case mix. RN hours and total nursing hours were endogenous with Medicaid reimbursement rates and resident case mix. As expected, Medicaid nursing home reimbursement rates were positively related to both RN and total nursing hours. Resident case mix was a positive predictor of RN hours and a negative predictor of total nursing hours. Higher state minimum RN staffing standards was a positive predictor of RN and total nursing hours while for-profit facilities and the percent of Medicaid residents were negative predictors. To increase staffing levels, average Medicaid reimbursement rates would need to be substantially increased while higher state minimum RN staffing standards is a stronger positive predictor of RN and total nursing hours.
Concurrent and lagged effects of registered nurse turnover and staffing on unit-acquired pressure ulcers.

PubMed

Park, Shin Hye; Boyle, Diane K; Bergquist-Beringer, Sandra; Staggs, Vincent S; Dunton, Nancy E

2014-08-01

We examined the concurrent and lagged effects of registered nurse (RN) turnover on unit-acquired pressure ulcer rates and whether RN staffing mediated the effects. Quarterly unit-level data were obtained from the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators for 2008 to 2010. A total of 10,935 unit-quarter observations (2,294 units, 465 hospitals) were analyzed. This longitudinal study used multilevel regressions and tested time-lagged effects of study variables on outcomes. The lagged effect of RN turnover on unit-acquired pressure ulcers was significant, while there was no concurrent effect. For every 10 percentage-point increase in RN turnover in a quarter, the odds of a patient having a pressure ulcer increased by 4 percent in the next quarter. Higher RN turnover in a quarter was associated with lower RN staffing in the current and subsequent quarters. Higher RN staffing was associated with lower pressure ulcer rates, but it did not mediate the relationship between turnover and pressure ulcers. We suggest that RN turnover is an important factor that affects pressure ulcer rates and RN staffing needed for high-quality patient care. Given the high RN turnover rates, hospital and nursing administrators should prepare for its negative effect on patient outcomes. © Health Research and Educational Trust.
Concurrent and Lagged Effects of Registered Nurse Turnover and Staffing on Unit-Acquired Pressure Ulcers

PubMed Central

Park, Shin Hye; Boyle, Diane K; Bergquist-Beringer, Sandra; Staggs, Vincent S; Dunton, Nancy E

2014-01-01

Objective We examined the concurrent and lagged effects of registered nurse (RN) turnover on unit-acquired pressure ulcer rates and whether RN staffing mediated the effects. Data Sources/Setting Quarterly unit-level data were obtained from the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators for 2008 to 2010. A total of 10,935 unit-quarter observations (2,294 units, 465 hospitals) were analyzed. Methods This longitudinal study used multilevel regressions and tested time-lagged effects of study variables on outcomes. Findings The lagged effect of RN turnover on unit-acquired pressure ulcers was significant, while there was no concurrent effect. For every 10 percentage-point increase in RN turnover in a quarter, the odds of a patient having a pressure ulcer increased by 4 percent in the next quarter. Higher RN turnover in a quarter was associated with lower RN staffing in the current and subsequent quarters. Higher RN staffing was associated with lower pressure ulcer rates, but it did not mediate the relationship between turnover and pressure ulcers. Conclusions We suggest that RN turnover is an important factor that affects pressure ulcer rates and RN staffing needed for high-quality patient care. Given the high RN turnover rates, hospital and nursing administrators should prepare for its negative effect on patient outcomes. PMID:24476194
Construction, Testing, and Analysis of Radon Mitigation System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jardin, Dan; Schnee, Richard; CDMS Collaboration

2011-10-01

The search for dark matter or other rare events such as neutrinoless double-beta decay is difficult in the presence of background radiation such as the alpha and beta emissions from the 222Rn decay chain. In order to reduce the radioactive background from Rn-daughters, an ultra-low radon clean room is being built at Syracuse University. A vacuum-swing adsorption system is used to mitigate the radon. Air flows through one of two tanks filled with charcoal that the radon adsorbs to, allowing the filtered air to pass into the clean room. Computer-controlled valves direct the airflow so that one tank filters the air while the other tank is purged of radon by circulating a small fraction of the cleaned airflow back through the tank at low pressure. The durations, pressures, and flow rates of each stage of building pressure, filtering, releasing pressure, and purging in the tanks are optimized in order to maximize the reduction of radon from the air. Professor.
Characteristics of the Nursing Practice Environment Associated With Lower Unit-Level RN Turnover.

PubMed

Nelson-Brantley, Heather V; Park, Shin Hye; Bergquist-Beringer, Sandra

2018-01-01

The aim of this study is to examine characteristics of the nursing practice environment associated with lower RN turnover. Identifying characteristics of the practice environment that contribute to lower RN turnover is important for meeting the national quality strategy priority of reducing healthcare costs. Data from 1002 adult care units in 162 National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators participating hospitals were analyzed using multivariate linear regression. The Practice Environment Scale of the Nursing Work Index was used to measure practice environment characteristics. RN turnover was measured at the unit level. Nursing units with higher overall ratings of the nursing practice environment had lower rates of RN turnover. Units with higher RN perceived staffing and resource adequacy experienced significantly lower RN turnover. Unit managers and hospital administrators should consider RN perception of staffing and resource adequacy and the overall practice environment when developing targeted strategies for decreasing RN turnover.
Radon and thoron in cave dwellings (Yan'an, China)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Wiegand, J.; Feige, S.; Xie Quingling

2000-04-01

{sup 222}Rn and {sup 220}Rn concentrations were measured in cave dwellings and brick houses in the region of Yan'an (China) during summer 1997. The underground dwellings are built into Quaternary loess, and all investigated houses are founded on it. The median values of indoor {sup 222}Rn and {sup 220}Rn concentrations are 42 (n = 18) and 77Bq m{sup {minus}3} (n = 15) for brick houses and 92 (n = 23) and 215 (n = 17) Bq m{sup {minus}3} for cave dwellings. To classify the dwellings in respect to their cave-character, the fraction of walls having a direct contact to themore » loess is calculated for each dwelling. While the {sup 222}Rn concentrations are increasing with higher fractions, the {sup 220}Rn concentrations are not correlated with this fraction. On the other hand, due to the short half-life of {sup 220}Rn the distance from the measuring point to the walls is negatively correlated with the {sup 220}Rn concentration, while there is no correlation with the {sup 222}Rn concentration. Therefore, concentric isolines of {sup 220}Rn concentrations showing a strong gradient were detected in cave dwellings. An influence of the ventilation rate is distinct for {sup 222}Rn but weak for {sup 220}Rn. The effective dose rates for {sup 222}Rn and {sup 220}Rn and their progenies are calculated for brick houses (2.7 mSv y{sup {minus}1}), cave dwellings (7.1 mSv y{sup {minus}1}), and for traditional cave dwellings with a bed foundation built with loess (16.7 mSv y{sup {minus}1}). These calculations are based on summer measurements only. It is expected that the true effective dose rates will be significantly higher.« less
Variation in Leaf Respiration Rates at Night Correlates with Carbohydrate and Amino Acid Supply1[OPEN

PubMed Central

Lee, Chun Pong; Cheng, Riyan

2017-01-01

Plant respiration can theoretically be fueled by and dependent upon an array of central metabolism components; however, which ones are responsible for the quantitative variation found in respiratory rates is unknown. Here, large-scale screens revealed 2-fold variation in nighttime leaf respiration rate (RN) among mature leaves from an Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) natural accession collection grown under common favorable conditions. RN variation was mostly maintained in the absence of genetic variation, which emphasized the low heritability of RN and its plasticity toward relatively small environmental differences within the sampling regime. To pursue metabolic explanations for leaf RN variation, parallel metabolite level profiling and assays of total protein and starch were performed. Within an accession, RN correlated strongly with stored carbon substrates, including starch and dicarboxylic acids, as well as sucrose, major amino acids, shikimate, and salicylic acid. Among different accessions, metabolite-RN correlations were maintained with protein, sucrose, and major amino acids but not stored carbon substrates. A complementary screen of the effect of exogenous metabolites and effectors on leaf RN revealed that (1) RN is stimulated by the uncoupler FCCP and high levels of substrates, demonstrating that both adenylate turnover and substrate supply can limit leaf RN, and (2) inorganic nitrogen did not stimulate RN, consistent with limited nighttime nitrogen assimilation. Simultaneous measurements of RN and protein synthesis revealed that these processes were largely uncorrelated in mature leaves. These results indicate that differences in preceding daytime metabolic activities are the major source of variation in mature leaf RN under favorable controlled conditions. PMID:28615345
Learning to think like a nurse: stories from new nurse graduates.

PubMed

Etheridge, Sharon A

2007-01-01

One aim of nursing education is to help students learn to be beginning practitioners, which includes making clinical judgments that ensure patient safety. Clinical judgments often determine how quickly nurses detect a life-threatening complication, how soon patients leave the hospital, or how quickly patients learn to take care of themselves. However, current research shows that new graduates do not perform well when making clinical judgments, despite having graduated from accredited schools of nursing and passing the NCLEX examination. This descriptive, qualitative study examined the perceptions of recent nursing graduates about learning to make clinical judgments. Graduates with baccalaureate degrees in nursing were interviewed three times in 9 months to determine their perceptions of how they learned to think like nurses. The results of this study should be useful in identifying strategies to help new graduates make the transition from students to registered nurses.
Reducing RN Vacancy Rate: A Nursing Recruitment Office Process Improvement Project.

PubMed

Hisgen, Stephanie A; Page, Nancy E; Thornlow, Deirdre K; Merwin, Elizabeth I

2018-06-01

The aim of this study was to reduce the RN vacancy rate at an academic medical center by improving the hiring process in the Nursing Recruitment Office. Inability to fill RN positions can lead to higher vacancy rates and negatively impact staff and patient satisfaction, quality outcomes, and the organization's bottom line. The Model for Improvement was used to design and implement a process improvement project to improve the hiring process from time of interview through the position being filled. Number of days to interview and check references decreased significantly, but no change in overall time to hire and time to fill positions was noted. RN vacancy rate also decreased significantly. Nurse manager satisfaction with the hiring process increased significantly. Redesigning the recruitment process supported operational efficiencies of the organization related to RN recruitment.
Visits to Registered Nurses

PubMed Central

Parker, Emese C.; Kong, Kevin; Watts, Leslie A.; Schwarz, Eleanor B.; Darney, Philip D.; Thiel de Bocanegra, Heike

2017-01-01

Background In 2013, California passed Assembly Bill (A.B.) 2348, approving registered nurses (RNs) to dispense patient self-administered hormonal contraceptives and administer injections of hormonal contraceptives. The Family Planning, Access, Care and Treatment (Family PACT) program, which came into effect in 1997 to expand low-income, uninsured California resident access to contraceptives at no cost, is one program in which qualified RNs can dispense and administer contraceptives. Aims The aims of this study were to (a) describe utilization of RN visits within California's Family PACT program and (b) evaluate the impact of RN visits on client birth control acquisition during the first 18 months after implementation of A.B. 2348 (January 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014). Methods A descriptive observational design using administrative databases was used. Family PACT claims were retrieved for RN visits and contraception. Paid claims for contraceptive dispensing and/or administration visits by physicians, nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, and physician assistants were compared before and after the implementation of A.B. 2348 at practice sites where RN visits were and were not utilized. Contraceptive methods and administration procedures were identified using Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System codes, National Drug Codes, and Common Procedural Terminology codes. Claims data for healthcare facilities were abstracted by site location based on a unique combination of National Provider Identifier (NPI), NPI Owner, and NPI location number. Results RN visits were found mainly in Northern California and the Central Valley (73%). Sixty-eight percent of RN visits resulted in same-day dispensing and/or administration of hormonal (and/or barrier) methods. Since benefit implementation, RN visits resulted in a 10% increase in access to birth control dispensing and/or administration visits. RN visits were also associated with future birth control acquisition and other healthcare utilization within the subsequent 30 days. Discussion RN visits, though underutilized across the state, have resulted in increased access to contraception in some communities, an effect that may continue to grow with time and can serve as a model for other states. PMID:28604507
Visits to Registered Nurses: An Opportunity to Increase Contraceptive Access in California.

PubMed

Parker, Emese C; Kong, Kevin; Watts, Leslie A; Schwarz, Eleanor B; Darney, Philip D; Thiel de Bocanegra, Heike

In 2013, California passed Assembly Bill (A.B.) 2348, approving registered nurses (RNs) to dispense patient self-administered hormonal contraceptives and administer injections of hormonal contraceptives. The Family Planning, Access, Care and Treatment (Family PACT) program, which came into effect in 1997 to expand low-income, uninsured California resident access to contraceptives at no cost, is one program in which qualified RNs can dispense and administer contraceptives. The aims of this study were to (a) describe utilization of RN visits within California's Family PACT program and (b) evaluate the impact of RN visits on client birth control acquisition during the first 18 months after implementation of A.B. 2348 (January 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014). A descriptive observational design using administrative databases was used. Family PACT claims were retrieved for RN visits and contraception. Paid claims for contraceptive dispensing and/or administration visits by physicians, nurse practitioners, certified nurse midwives, and physician assistants were compared before and after the implementation of A.B. 2348 at practice sites where RN visits were and were not utilized. Contraceptive methods and administration procedures were identified using Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System codes, National Drug Codes, and Common Procedural Terminology codes. Claims data for healthcare facilities were abstracted by site location based on a unique combination of National Provider Identifier (NPI), NPI Owner, and NPI location number. RN visits were found mainly in Northern California and the Central Valley (73%). Sixty-eight percent of RN visits resulted in same-day dispensing and/or administration of hormonal (and/or barrier) methods. Since benefit implementation, RN visits resulted in a 10% increase in access to birth control dispensing and/or administration visits. RN visits were also associated with future birth control acquisition and other healthcare utilization within the subsequent 30 days. RN visits, though underutilized across the state, have resulted in increased access to contraception in some communities, an effect that may continue to grow with time and can serve as a model for other states.
Responses of Nitrogen Utilization and Apparent Nitrogen Loss to Different Control Measures in the Wheat and Maize Rotation System

PubMed Central

Peng, Zhengping; Liu, Yanan; Li, Yingchun; Abawi, Yahya; Wang, Yanqun; Men, Mingxin; An-Vo, Duc-Anh

2017-01-01

Nitrogen (N) is an essential macronutrient for plant growth and excessive application rates can decrease crop yield and increase N loss into the environment. Field experiments were carried out to understand the effects of N fertilizers on N utilization, crop yield and net income in wheat and maize rotation system of the North China Plain (NCP). Compared to farmers’ N rate (FN), the yield of wheat and maize in reduction N rate by 21–24% based on FN (RN) was improved by 451 kg ha-1, N uptakes improved by 17 kg ha-1 and net income increased by 1671 CNY ha-1, while apparent N loss was reduced by 156 kg ha-1. The controlled-release fertilizer with a 20% reduction of RN (CRF80%), a 20% reduction of RN together with dicyandiamide (RN80%+DCD) and a 20% reduction of RN added with nano-carbon (RN80%+NC) all resulted in an improvement in crop yield and decreased the apparent N losses compared to RN. Contrasted with RN80%+NC, the total crop yield in RN80%+DCD improved by 1185 kg ha-1, N uptake enhanced by 9 kg ha-1 and net income increased by 3929 CNY ha-1, while apparent N loss was similar. Therefore, a 37–39% overall decrease in N rate compared to farmers plus the nitrification inhibitor, DCD, was effective N control measure that increased crop yields, enhanced N efficiencies, and improved economic benefits, while mitigating apparent N loss. There is considerable scope for improved N use effieincy in the intensive wheat -maize rotation of the NCP. PMID:28228772
Expected indoor 222Rn levels in counties with very high and very low lung cancer rates.

PubMed

Cohen, B L

1989-12-01

Counties in the U.S. with high lung cancer rates should have higher average 222Rn levels than counties with low lung cancer rates, assuming the average 222Rn level in a county is not correlated with other factors that cause lung cancer. The magnitude of this effect was calculated, using the absolute risk model, the relative risk model, and an intermediate model, for females who died in 1950-1969. The results were similar for all three models. We concluded that, ignoring migration, the average Rn level in the highest lung cancer counties should be about three times higher than in the lowest lung cancer counties according to the theory. Preliminary data are presented indicating that the situation is quite the opposite: The average Rn level in the highest lung cancer counties was only about one-half that in the lowest lung cancer counties.
Time-averaged exposures to 220Rn and 222Rn progeny in Colorado homes.

PubMed

Martz, D E; Falco, R J; Langner, G H

1990-06-01

Week-long time-averaged exposures to naturally occurring 220Rn and 222Rn progeny have been measured at several locations in Colorado by monitoring the alpha activity collected continuously on a fixed-membrane filter. The alpha-energy spectrum associated with the activity collected on the filter was recorded every 15 min using a microcomputer-controlled alpha spectrometer. The alpha counts observed in three energy regions permitted complete separation of the contributions from each decay chain, and calculation of the separate time-averaged potential alpha-energy concentrations in air from 220Rn progeny, PAEC(Tn), and from 222Rn progeny, PAEC(Rn). The time-averaged PAEC(Tn) ranged from 0.3 to 6.9 mWL at 12 indoor locations, and the time-averaged PAEC(Rn) ranged from 1.0 to 59.0 mWL. The ratios of the indoor PAEC(Tn) to indoor PAEC(Rn) ranged from 0.09 to 0.58, with an overall average ratio of 0.32 and a standard deviation of 0.15. The 10 L min-1 flow rate through the filter was selected to approximate the air intake rate of a resting human; the time-averaged PAEC thus represents the progeny concentrations that would have been inhaled by a person breathing the same atmosphere.
Influence of the gas-flow Reynolds number on a plasma column in a glass tube

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jin, Dong Jun; Uhm, Han S.; Cho, Guangsup

2013-08-15

Atmospheric-plasma generation inside a glass tube is influenced by gas stream behavior as described by the Reynolds number (Rn). In experiments with He, Ne, and Ar, the plasma column length increases with an increase in the gas flow rate under laminar flow characterized by Rn < 2000. The length of the plasma column decreases as the flow rate increases in the transition region of 2000 < Rn < 4000. For a turbulent flow beyond Rn > 4000, the length of the plasma column is short in front of the electrode, eventually leading to a shutdown.
Mentor program boosts new nurses' satisfaction and lowers turnover rate.

PubMed

Fox, Kathy C

2010-07-01

In 2004, the turnover rate among first-year registered nurses (RNs) at St. Francis Hospital and Health Centers had mushroomed to 31%. Based on research, in 2006, the hospital embarked on a journey to implement an RN mentor program to improve satisfaction and reduce turnover. A pilot program was initiated, including 12 RN mentors and 12 RN protégés from select nursing units. The results showed a 0% turnover rate during the 1-year pilot program. Based on these findings, the mentor program was expanded to include RNs working in inpatient nursing units and surgery and emergency departments. Each year, the RN turnover rate has decreased. In 2009, the turnover rate was 10.3%. Because of the success of the program, it has been expanded in scope to include other professionals experiencing high turnover in targeted departments, including radiological technicians, respiratory therapists, pharmacists, and physical therapists.
Improved automated analysis of radon (222Rn) and thoron (220Rn) in natural waters.

PubMed

Dimova, Natasha; Burnett, William C; Lane-Smith, Derek

2009-11-15

Natural radon ((222)Rn) and thoron ((220)Rn) can be used as tracers of various chemical and physical processes in the environment. We present here results from an extended series of laboratory experiments intended to improve the automated analysis of (222)Rn and (220)Rn in water using a modified RAD AQUA (Durridge Inc.) system. Previous experience with similar equipment showed that it takes about 30-40 min for the system to equilibrate to radon-in-water concentration increases and even longer for the response to return to baseline after a sharp spike. While the original water/gas exchanger setup was built only for radon-in-water measurement, our goal here is to provide an automated system capable of high resolution and good sensitivity for both radon- and thoron-in-water detections. We found that faster water flow rates substantially improved the response for both isotopes while thoron is detected most efficiently at airflow rates of 3 L/min. Our results show that the optimum conditions for fastest response and sensitivity for both isotopes are at water flow rates up to 17 L/min and an airflow rate of 3 L/min through the detector. Applications for such measurements include prospecting for naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) in pipelines and locating points of groundwater/surface water interaction.

Obesity, hypertension and diabetes mellitus affect complication rate of different nephrectomy techniques.

PubMed

Hua, X; Ying-Ying, C; Zu-Jun, F; Gang, X; Zu-Quan, X; Qiang, D; Hao-Wen, J

2014-12-01

To investigate whether obesity, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus (DM) would increase post-nephrectomy complication rates using standardized classification method. We retrospectively included 843 patients from March 2006 to November 2012, of whom 613 underwent radical nephrectomy (RN) and 229 had partial nephrectomy (PN). Modified Clavien classification system was applied to quantify complication severity of nephrectomy. Fisher's exact or chi-square test was used to assess the relationship between complication rates and obesity, hypertension, as well as DM. The prevalence of obesity, hypertension, and DM was 11.51%, 30.84%, 8.78%, respectively. The overall complication rate was 19.31%, 30.04%, 35.71% and 36.36% for laparoscopic radical nephrectomy (LRN), open-RN, LPN and open-PN respectively. An increasing trend of low grade complication rate as BMI increased was observed in LRN (P=.027) and open-RN (P<.001). Obese patients had greater chance to have low grade complications in LRN (OR=4.471; 95% CI: 1.290-17.422; P=0.031) and open-RN (OR=2.448; 95% CI: 1.703-3.518; P<.001). Patients with hypertension were more likely to have low grade complications, especially grade ii complications in open-RN (OR=1.526; 95% CI: 1.055-2.206; P=.026) and open PN (OR=2.032; 95% CI: 1.199-3.443; P=.009). DM was also associated with higher grade i complication rate in open-RN (OR=2.490; 95% CI: 331-4.657; P=.016) and open-PN (OR=4.425; 95% CI: 1.815-10.791; P=.013). High grade complication rates were similar in comparison. Obesity, hypertension, and DM were closely associated with increased post-nephrectomy complication rates, mainly low grade complications. Copyright © 2013 AEU. Published by Elsevier Espana. All rights reserved.
RN Job Satisfaction and Retention After an Interprofessional Team Intervention.

PubMed

Baik, Dawon; Zierler, Brenda

2018-04-01

Despite continuing interest in interprofessional teamwork to improve nurse outcomes and quality of care, there is little research that focuses on nurse job satisfaction and retention after an interprofessional team intervention. This study explored registered nurse (RN) job satisfaction and retention after a purposeful interprofessional team training and structured interprofessional bedside rounds were implemented. As part of a larger study, in this comparative cross-sectional study, pre- and post-intervention data on RN job satisfaction and turnover rate were collected and analyzed. It was found that RNs had significantly higher job satisfaction after the interprofessional team intervention. The 6-month period turnover rate in the post-intervention period was slightly lower than the 6-month period turnover rate in pre-intervention period; however, the rate was too low to provide statistical evidence. Ongoing coaching and supportive work environments to improve RN outcomes should be considered to enhance quality of care and patient safety in healthcare.
Greenhouse gas emissions and reactive nitrogen releases from rice production with simultaneous incorporation of wheat straw and nitrogen fertilizer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Longlong; Xia, Yongqiu; Ma, Shutan; Wang, Jinyang; Wang, Shuwei; Zhou, Wei; Yan, Xiaoyuan

2016-08-01

Impacts of simultaneous inputs of crop straw and nitrogen (N) fertilizer on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and N losses from rice production are not well understood. A 2-year field experiment was established in a rice-wheat cropping system in the Taihu Lake region (TLR) of China to evaluate the GHG intensity (GHGI) as well as reactive N intensity (NrI) of rice production with inputs of wheat straw and N fertilizer. The field experiment included five treatments of different N fertilization rates for rice production: 0 (RN0), 120 (RN120), 180 (RN180), 240 (RN240), and 300 kg N ha-1 (RN300, traditional N application rate in the TLR). Wheat straws were fully incorporated into soil before rice transplantation. The meta-analytic technique was employed to evaluate various Nr losses. Results showed that the response of rice yield to N rate successfully fitted a quadratic model, while N fertilization promoted Nr discharges exponentially (nitrous oxide emission, N leaching, and runoff) or linearly (ammonia volatilization). The GHGI of rice production ranged from 1.20 (RN240) to 1.61 kg CO2 equivalent (CO2 eq) kg-1 (RN0), while NrI varied from 2.14 (RN0) to 10.92 g N kg-1 (RN300). Methane (CH4) emission dominated the GHGI with a proportion of 70.2-88.6 % due to direct straw incorporation, while ammonia (NH3) volatilization dominated the NrI with proportion of 53.5-57.4 %. Damage costs to environment incurred by GHG and Nr releases from current rice production (RN300) accounted for 8.8 and 4.9 % of farmers' incomes, respectively. Cutting N application rate from 300 (traditional N rate) to 240 kg N ha-1 could improve rice yield and nitrogen use efficiency by 2.14 and 10.30 %, respectively, while simultaneously reducing GHGI by 13 %, NrI by 23 %, and total environmental costs by 16 %. Moreover, the reduction of 60 kg N ha-1 improved farmers' income by CNY 639 ha-1, which would provide them with an incentive to change the current N application rate. Our study suggests that GHG and Nr releases, especially for CH4 emission and NH3 volatilization, from rice production in the TLR could be further reduced, considering the current incorporation pattern of wheat straw and N fertilizer.
Recent 210Pb, 137Cs and 241Am accumulation in an ombrotrophic peatland from Amsterdam Island (Southern Indian Ocean).

PubMed

Li, Chuxian; Le Roux, Gaël; Sonke, Jeroen; van Beek, Pieter; Souhaut, Marc; Van der Putten, Nathalie; De Vleeschouwer, François

2017-09-01

Over the past 50 years, 210 Pb, 137 Cs and 241 Am have been abundantly used in reconstructing recent sediment and peat chronologies. The study of global aerosol-climate interaction is also partially depending on our understanding of 222 Rn- 210 Pb cycling, as radionuclides are useful aerosol tracers. However, in comparison with the Northern Hemisphere, few data are available for these radionuclides in the Southern Hemisphere, especially in the South Indian Ocean. A peat core was collected in an ombrotrophic peatland from the remote Amsterdam Island (AMS) and was analyzed for 210 Pb, 137 Cs and 241 Am radionuclides using an underground ultra-low background gamma spectrometer. The 210 Pb Constant Rate of Supply (CRS) model of peat accumulations is validated by peaks of artificial radionuclides ( 137 Cs and 241 Am) that are related to nuclear weapon tests. We compared the AMS 210 Pb data with an updated 210 Pb deposition database. The 210 Pb flux of 98 ± 6 Bq·m -2 ·y -1 derived from the AMS core agrees with data from Madagascar and South Africa. The elevated flux observed at such a remote location may result from the enhanced 222 Rn activity and frequent rainfall in AMS. This enhanced 222 Rn activity itself may be explained by continental air masses passing over southern Africa and/or Madagascar. The 210 Pb flux at AMS is higher than those derived from cores collected in coastal areas in Argentina and Chile, which are areas dominated by marine westerly winds with low 222 Rn activities. We report a 137 Cs inventory at AMS of 144 ± 13 Bq·m -2 (corrected to 1969). Our data thus contribute to the under-represented data coverage in the mid-latitudes of the Southern Hemisphere. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
An instrument for measuring equilibrium-equivalent 222Rn and 220Rn concentrations with etched track detectors.

PubMed

Zhuo, W; Iida, T

1999-11-01

To simultaneously measure both 222Rn and 220Rn progeny concentrations, a new type of portable integrating monitor with allyl diglycol carbonate (CR-39) plastic detectors was developed. The monitor gives the average equilibrium-equivalent 222Rn and 220Rn concentrations (EEC(RN) and EEC(Tn)) during sampling intervals. The detection efficiencies of the alpha particles were calculated by Monte Carlo method. The lower limits of detection for EEC(Rn) and EEC(Tn) are estimated to be 0.57 Bq m(-3) and 0.07 Bq m(-3) for 24 h continuously sampling at a flow rate of 0.8 L min(-1). The measuring results with the new type monitors were confirmed through intercomparison experiments. In a small survey, a rather high 220Rn progeny concentration with an average of 1.73 Bq m(-3) was observed in traditional Japanese dwellings with soil/mud plastered walls. On the other hand, a very high 232Th concentration in soil was reported in China. They suggested that there is a possibility of high 220Rn progeny concentration in both Japan and China.
Effects of vegetation, a clay cap and environmental variables on 222Rn fluence rate from reclaimed U mill tailings.

PubMed

Morris, R C; Fraley, L

1989-04-01

We measured 222Rn fluence rate and several environmental variables on two plots with U mill tailings buried beneath 30 cm of overburden and 20 cm of topsoil. An additional 30 cm of clay covered the tailings on one plot and each plot was subdivided into bare soil and vegetated subplots. We used linear correlation, two-way ANOVA and stepwise multiple regression to analyze the effects of the plot characteristics and the environmental variables on 222Rn fluence rate. The most important effect on 222Rn fluence rates from these plots was the combination of a clay cap and a vegetated surface. The mean annual fluence rate from the plot having both of these characteristics (520 +/- 370 mBq m-2 s-1) was over three times that of the vegetated plot without a clay cap (170 +/- 130 mBq m-2 s-1) and 18 times that of the bare plot with a clay cap (29 +/- 13 mBq m-2 s-1). The interaction effect may have been due to the growth of roots in the moist clay and active transport of dissolved 222Rn to the surface in water. This speculation is supported by the observation that on vegetated plots with a clay cap, moisture in the clay enhanced the fluence rate.
Maternal and neonatal interleukin-1 receptor antagonist genotype and pregnancy outcome in a population with a high rate of pre-term birth.

PubMed

Chaves, José Humberto Belmino; Babayan, Arthur; Bezerra, Cledna de Melo; Linhares, Iara M; Witkin, Steven S

2008-10-01

We evaluated associations between a length polymorphism in intron 2 of the gene coding for IL-1ra (gene symbol IL1RN) and pregnancy outcome in a population with a high rate of preterm birth. Subjects were pregnant women in Maceio, Brazil and their newborns. DNA was tested for IL1RN genotypes and alleles by gene amplification using primer pairs that spanned the polymorphic region. Every subject completed a detailed questionnaire. The frequency of allele 2 (IL1RN*2) carriage was elevated in mothers with a spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB) in the current pregnancy (P = 0.02) and also with a prior preterm delivery (P = .01). Both SPTB with intact membranes (P = 0.01) and SPTB preceded by pre-term premature rupture of membranes (P = .03) were associated with ILlRN*2 carriage. A previous fetal demise was more than twice as prevalent in mothers positive for two copies of IL1RN*2. Maternal carriage of ILlRN*2 increases susceptibility to inflammation-triggered spontaneous pre-term birth.
On the heteroclinic connection problem for multi-well gradient systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuniga, Andres; Sternberg, Peter

2016-10-01

We revisit the existence problem of heteroclinic connections in RN associated with Hamiltonian systems involving potentials W :RN → R having several global minima. Under very mild assumptions on W we present a simple variational approach to first find geodesics minimizing length of curves joining any two of the potential wells, where length is computed with respect to a degenerate metric having conformal factor √{ W}. Then we show that when such a minimizing geodesic avoids passing through other wells of the potential at intermediate times, it gives rise to a heteroclinic connection between the two wells. This work improves upon the approach of [22] and represents a more geometric alternative to the approaches of e.g. [5,10,14,17] for finding such connections.
Thirteen years and counting: Outcomes of a concurrent ASN/BSN enrollment program.

PubMed

Heglund, Stephen; Simmons, Jessica; Wink, Diane; D'Meza Leuner, Jean

In their 2011 report, The Future of Nursing, the Institute of Medicine called for 80% of the nursing workforce to be comprised of baccalaureate prepared Registered Nurses by the year 2020. One suggested approach to achieve this goal is the creation of programs that allow students to progress through associate and baccalaureate nursing preparation simultaneously. This paper describes the University of Central Florida's 13-year experience after implementing a Concurrent Enrollment Program. Development and structure of the program, advisement and curriculum details, facilitators and barriers are described. Data on National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses pass rates, completion rates, comparison with traditional RN-BSN students, and progression to graduate school are also included. The Concurrent Program model described here between a specific university and state college partners, demonstrated positive outcomes that support achievement of the Institute of Medicine's goals. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Effects of heating on the emanation rates of radon-222 from a suite of natural minerals.

PubMed

Garver, E; Baskaran, M

2004-12-01

The emanating power of radon provides information on the internal structure of a mineral and the radiation damage caused by the decay of 238U, 235U and 232Th (and their daughters) that are present in the mineral. The concentration of 222Rn in groundwater is primarily controlled by the concentration of U and Th in the underlying rocks, as well as the emanation coefficient for that particular rock. The variations in the emanation coefficient for 222Rn caused when subsurface rocks are subjected to tectonic forces results in changes in 222Rn in groundwater. Increased emanation rates of radon from a mineral grain can potentially alter the 238U-206Pb, 235U-207Pb and 232Th-208Pb chronological clocks. We have measured radon emanation coefficients on a suite of minerals comprised of one oxide (uraninite), three silicates (thorite, zircon, and cerite) and one phosphate (monazite) at room temperature and after heating at 200 degrees C and 600 degrees C. Annealing of some of the nuclear tracks within a mineral significantly reduces the emanation rates of radon in these minerals, suggesting that the tracks created by decay events serve as conduit pathways for the release of 222Rn. Higher emanation rates of 222Rn from mineral grains that are surrounded by liquid as compared to air indicate that a major portion of the escaping 222Rn in air gets embedded into adjacent mineral grains and/or opposite walls of a pore.
Inhalation exposures due to radon and thoron ((222)Rn and (220)Rn): Do they differ in high and normal background radiation areas in India?

PubMed

Mishra, Rosaline; Sapra, B K; Prajith, R; Rout, R P; Jalaluddin, S; Mayya, Y S

2015-09-01

In India, High Background Radiation Areas (HBRAs) due to enhanced levels of naturally occurring radionuclides in soil (thorium and, to a lesser extent, uranium), are located along some parts of the coastal tracts viz. the coastal belt of Kerala, Tamilnadu and Odisha. It is conjectured that these deposits will result in higher emissions of radon isotopes ((222)Rn and (220)Rn) and their daughter products as compared to Normal Background Radiation Areas (NBRAs). While the annual external dose rates contributed by gamma radiations in these areas are about 5-10 times higher, the extent of increase in the inhalation dose rates attributable to (222)Rn and (220)Rn and their decay products is not well quantified. Towards this, systematic indoor surveys were conducted wherein simultaneous measurements of time integrated (222)Rn and (220)Rn gas and their decay product concentrations was carried out in around 800 houses in the HBRAs of Kerala and Odisha to estimate the inhalation doses. All gas measurements were carried out using pin-hole cup dosimeters while the progeny measurements were with samplers and systems based on the Direct radon/thoron Progeny sensors (DRPS/DTPS). To corroborate these passive measurements of decay products concentrations, active sampling was also carried out in a few houses. The results of the surveys provide a strong evidence to conclude that the inhalation doses due to (222)Rn and (220)Rn gas and their decay products in these HBRAs are in the same range as observed in the NBRAs in India. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Evaluation of radon adsorption characteristics of a coconut shell-based activated charcoal system for radon and thoron removal applications.

PubMed

Karunakara, N; Sudeep Kumara, K; Yashodhara, I; Sahoo, B K; Gaware, J J; Sapra, B K; Mayya, Y S

2015-04-01

Radon ((222)Rn), thoron ((220)Rn), and their decay products contribute a major fraction (more than 50%) of doses received from ionisation radiation in public domain indoor environments and occupation environments such as uranium mines, thorium plants, and underground facilities, and are recognised as important radiological hazardous materials, which need to be controlled. This paper presents studies on the removal of (222)Rn and (220)Rn from air using coconut shell-based granular activated charcoal cylindrical adsorber beds. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the (222)Rn and (220)Rn adsorption characteristics, and the mitigation efficiency of coconut-based activated charcoal available in India. The performance parameters evaluated include breakthrough time (τ) and adsorption coefficient (K), and degassing characteristics of the charcoal bed of varying dimensions at different flow rates. While the breakthrough for (222)Rn occurred depending on the dimension of the adsorber bed and flow rates, for (220)Rn, the breakthrough did not occur. The breakthrough curve exhibited a stretched S-shape response, instead of the theoretically predicted sharp step function. The experiments confirm that the breakthrough time individually satisfies the quadratic relationship with respect to the diameter of the bed, and the linear relationship with respect to the length, as predicted in the theory. The K value varied in the range of 2.3-4.12 m(3) kg(-1) with a mean value of 2.99 m(3) kg(-1). The K value was found to increase with the increase in flow rate. Heating the charcoal to ∼ 100 °C resulted in degassing of the adsorbed (222)Rn, and the K of the degassed charcoal and virgin charcoal were found to be similar with no deterioration in performance indicating the re-usability of the charcoal. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
A field experiment on Rn flux from reclaimed uranium mill tailings.

PubMed

Hinton, T G; Whicker, F W

1985-04-01

Design and construction techniques are described for a 1.6 ha experimental reclamation plot consisting of a 1-m-thick slab of uranium mill tailings covered with various depths of overburden. A passive, activated charcoal device was developed and used for measurements of Rn flux at the soil surface. Observations on Rn flux vs overburden depth indicated that tailings covered with 1.5 m of revegetated or 0.3 m of bare overburden had Rn exhalation rates comparable to background. Vegetated subplots exhibited a significantly higher (often an order of magnitude) flux than the bare subplots. A positive correlation was observed between precipitation quantities and Rn flux.
[Impact of nurse, nurses' aid staffing and turnover rate on inpatient health outcomes in long term care hospitals].

PubMed

Kim, Yunmi; Lee, Ji Yun; Kang, Hyuncheol

2014-02-01

This study was conducted to explore the impact of registered nurse/nurses' aid (RN/NA) staffing and turnover rate on inpatient health outcomes in long term care hospitals. A secondary analysis was done of national data from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Services including evaluation of long term care hospitals in October-December 2010 and hospital general characteristics in July-September 2010. Final analysis of data from 610 hospitals included RN/NA staffing, turnover rate of nursing staff and 5 patient health outcome indicators. Finding showed that, when variables of organization and community level were controlled, patients per RN was a significant indicator of decline in ADL for patients with dementia, and new pressure ulcer development in the high risk group and worsening of pressure ulcers. Patients per NA was a significant indicator for new pressure ulcer development in the low risk group. Turnover rate was not significant for any variable. To maintain and improve patient health outcomes of ADL and pressure ulcers, policies should be developed to increase the staffing level of RN. Studies are also needed to examine causal relation of NA staffing level, RN staffing level and patient health outcomes with consideration of the details of nursing practice.
Safety organizing, emotional exhaustion, and turnover in hospital nursing units.

PubMed

Vogus, Timothy J; Cooil, Bruce; Sitterding, Mary; Everett, Linda Q

2014-10-01

Prior research has found that safety organizing behaviors of registered nurses (RNs) positively impact patient safety. However, little research exists on how engaging in safety organizing affects caregivers. While we know that organizational processes can have divergent effects on organizational and employee outcomes, little research exists on the effects of pursuing highly reliable performance through safety organizing on caregivers. Specifically, we examined whether, and the conditions under which, safety organizing affects RN emotional exhaustion and nursing unit turnover rates. Subjects included 1352 RNs in 50 intensive care, internal medicine, labor, and surgery nursing units in 3 Midwestern acute-care hospitals who completed questionnaires between August and December 2011 and 50 Nurse Managers from the units who completed questionnaires in December 2012. Cross-sectional analyses of RN emotional exhaustion linked to survey data on safety organizing and hospital incident reporting system data on adverse event rates for the year before survey administration. Cross-sectional analysis of unit-level RN turnover rates for the year following the administration of the survey linked to survey data on safety organizing. Multilevel regression analysis indicated that safety organizing was negatively associated with RN emotional exhaustion on units with higher rates of adverse events and positively associated with RN emotional exhaustion with lower rates of adverse events. Tobit regression analyses indicated that safety organizing was associated with lower unit level of turnover rates over time. Safety organizing is beneficial to caregivers in multiple ways, especially on nursing units with high levels of adverse events and over time.
A study of disequilibrium between 220Rn and 216Po for 220Rn measurements using a flow-through Lucas scintillation cell.

PubMed

Sathyabama, N; Datta, D; Gaware, J J; Mayya, Y S; Tripathi, R M

2014-01-01

Lucas-type scintillation cells (LSCs) are commonly used for rapid measurements of (220)Rn concentrations in flow-through mode in field and for calibration experiments in laboratories. However, in those measurements, equilibrium between (220)Rn and (216)Po is generally assumed and two alpha particles are considered to be emitted per (220)Rn decay due to very short half-life of (216)Po. In this paper, a small, yet significant disequilibrium existing between (220)Rn and (216)Po has been examined and shown that less than two alpha particles are actually emitted per (220)Rn decay in the cell when flow is maintained. A theoretical formula has been derived for the first time for a correction factor (CF) to be applied to this measured concentration to account for the disequilibrium. The existence of this disequilibrium has been verified experimentally and is found to increase with the increase in the ratio of flow rate to cell volume. The reason for the disequilibrium is attributed to the flushing out of (216)Po formed in the cell before its decay due to the flow. Uncertainties in measured concentrations have been estimated and the estimated CF values have been found to be significant for the flow rates considered above 5 dm(3) min(-1) for a cell of volume 0.125 dm(3). The calculated values of the CF are about 1.055 to 1.178 in the flow rate range of 4 to 15 dm(3) min(-1) for the cell of volume 0.125 dm(3), while the corresponding experimental values are 1.023 to 1.264. This is a systematic error introduced in (220)Rn measurements using a flow-through LSC, which can be removed either by correct formulation or by proper design of a measurement set-up.
Assessment of (222)Rn emanation from ore body and backfill tailings in low-grade underground uranium mine.

PubMed

Mishra, Devi Prasad; Sahu, Patitapaban; Panigrahi, Durga Charan; Jha, Vivekanand; Patnaik, R Lokeswara

2014-02-01

This paper presents a comparative study of (222)Rn emanation from the ore and backfill tailings in an underground uranium mine located at Jaduguda, India. The effects of surface area, porosity, (226)Ra and moisture contents on (222)Rn emanation rate were examined. The study revealed that the bulk porosity of backfill tailings is more than two orders of magnitude than that of the ore. The geometric mean radon emanation rates from the ore body and backfill tailings were found to be 10.01 × 10(-3) and 1.03 Bq m(-2) s(-1), respectively. Significant positive linear correlations between (222)Rn emanation rate and the (226)Ra content of ore and tailings were observed. For normalised (226)Ra content, the (222)Rn emanation rate from tailings was found to be 283 times higher than the ore due to higher bulk porosity and surface area. The relative radon emanation from the tailings with moisture fraction of 0.14 was found to be 2.4 times higher than the oven-dried tailings. The study suggested that the mill tailings used as a backfill material significantly contributes to radon emanation as compared to the ore body itself and the (226)Ra content and bulk porosity are the dominant factors for radon emanation into the mine atmosphere.
Novel instruments for in situ continuous Rn-222 measurement in groundwater and the application to river bank infiltration.

PubMed

Gilfedder, B S; Hofmann, H; Cartwright, I

2013-01-15

There is little known about the short-term dynamics of groundwater-surface water exchange in losing rivers. This is partly due to the paucity of chemical techniques that can autonomously collect high-frequency data in groundwater bores. Here we present two new instruments for continuous in situ (222)Rn measurement in bores for quantifying the surface water infiltration rate into an underlying or adjacent aquifer. These instruments are based on (222)Rn diffusion through silicone tube membranes, either wrapped around a pole (MonoRad) or strung between two hollow end pieces (OctoRad). They are combined with novel, robust, low-cost Geiger counter (222)Rn detectors which are ideal for long-term autonomous measurement. The down-hole instruments have a quantitative response time of about a day during low flow, but this decreases to <12 h during high-flow events. The setup was able to trace river water bank infiltration during moderate to high river flow during two field experiments. Mass-balance calculations using the (222)Rn data gave a maximum infiltration rate of 2 m d(-1). These instruments offer the first easily constructible system for continuous (222)Rn analysis in groundwater, and could be used to trace surface water infiltration in many environments including rivers, lakes, wetlands, and coastal settings.
Nurse Knowledge, Work Environment, and Turnover in Highly Specialized Pediatric End-of-Life Care.

PubMed

Lindley, Lisa C; Cozad, Melanie J

2017-07-01

To examine the relationship between nurse knowledge, work environment, and registered nurse (RN) turnover in perinatal hospice and palliative care organizations. Using nurse intellectual capital theory, a multivariate analysis was conducted with 2007 National Home and Hospice Care Survey data. Perinatal hospice and palliative care organizations experienced a 5% turnover rate. The professional experience of advanced practice nurses (APNs) was significantly related to turnover among RNs (β = -.032, P < .05). Compared to organizations with no APNs professional experience, clinical nurse specialists and nurse practitioners significantly reduced RN turnover by 3 percentage points. No other nurse knowledge or work environment variables were associated with RN turnover. Several of the control variables were also associated with RN turnover in the study; Organizations serving micropolitan (β = -.041, P < .05) and rural areas (β = -.037, P < .05) had lower RN turnover compared to urban areas. Organizations with a technology climate where nurses used electronic medical records had a higher turnover rate than those without (β = .036, P < .05). The findings revealed that advanced professional experience in the form of APNs was associated with reductions in RN turnover. This suggests that having a clinical nurse specialist or nurse practitioner on staff may provide knowledge and experience to other RNs, creating stability within the organization.
Peer tutoring program for academic success of returning nursing students.

PubMed

Bryer, Jennifer

2012-01-01

High attrition rates among students in associate degree nursing programs are a concern for faculty, administrators, and students. Programs offering academic and emotional support for students at risk for failing a clinical course may decrease attrition rates and improve academic performance. A peer tutoring program was developed for returning nursing students who were unsuccessful in a previous clinical course. Peer tutors met with returning students weekly to review course work, complete case studies and practice NCLEX questions. Trusting, supportive relationships developed among students and a significant increase in grades was noted at the end of the course for 79% of students. Implementation of peer tutoring was beneficial for returning students, tutors, and the nursing program and may be valuable in other courses where academic achievement is a concern.

ASSESSMENT OF INHALATION DOSE FROM THE INDOOR 222Rn AND 220Rn USING RAD7 AND PINHOLE CUP DOSEMETERS.

PubMed

Mehra, R; Jakhu, R; Bangotra, P; Kaur, K; Mittal, H M

2016-10-01

Radon is the most important source of natural radiation and is responsible for approximately half of the received dose from all sources. Most of this dose is from inhalation of the radon progeny, especially in closed atmospheres. Concentration of radon ( 222 Rn) and thoron ( 220 Rn) in the different villages of Jalandhar and Kapurthala district of Punjab has been calculated by pinhole cup dosemeters and RAD7. On an average, it has been observed from the study that the values of all the parameters calculated are higher in case of active monitoring than the passive monitoring. The calculated equilibrium equivalent 222 Rn concentration (EEC Rn ) and equilibrium equivalent 220 Rn concentration (EEC Th ) fluctuate in the range from 5.58 to 34.29 and from 0.35 to 2.7 Bq m -3 as estimated by active technique, respectively. Similarly, the observed mean value of the potential alpha energy concentration of 222 Rn (PAEC Rn ) and 220 Rn (PAEC Th ) is 4.55 and 4.34 mWL, respectively. The dose rate to the soft tissues and lung from indoor 222 Rn varies from 0.06 to 0.38 and from 0.50 to 3.05 nGy h -1 , respectively. The total annual effective dose for the residents of the study area is less than 10 mSv. © The Author 2016. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.
An instrument for measuring equilibrium-equivalent {sup 222}Rn concentrations with etched track detectors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhuo, Weihai; Iida, Takao

1999-11-01

To simultaneously measure both {sup 222}Rn and {sup 220}Rn progeny concentrations, a new type of portable integrating monitor with allyl diglycol carbonate (CR-39) plastic detectors was developed. The monitor gives the average equilibrium equivalent {sup 222}Rn and {sup 220}Rn concentrations EEC{sub Rn} and EEC{sub Tn} during sampling intervals. The detection efficiencies of the alpha particles were calculated by Monte Carlo method. The lower limits of detection for EEC{sub Rn} and EEC{sub Tn} are estimated to be 0.57 Bq m{sup 13} and 0.07 B1 m{sup {minus}3} for 24 h continuously sampling at a flow rate of 0.9 L min{sup {minus}1}. Themore » measuring results with the new type monitors were confined through intercomparison experiments. In a small survey, a rather high {sup 220}Rn progeny concentration with an average of 1.73 Bq m{sup {minus}3} was observed in traditional Japanese dwellings with soil/mud plastered walls. On the other hand, a very high {sup 232}Th concentration in soil was reported in China. They suggested that there is a possibility of high {sup 220}Rn progeny concentration in both Japan and China.« less
An instrument for measuring equilibrium-equivalent [sup 222]Rn concentrations with etched track detectors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhuo, Weihai; Iida, Takao

1999-11-01

To simultaneously measure both [sup 222]Rn and [sup 220]Rn progeny concentrations, a new type of portable integrating monitor with allyl diglycol carbonate (CR-39) plastic detectors was developed. The monitor gives the average equilibrium equivalent [sup 222]Rn and [sup 220]Rn concentrations EEC[sub Rn] and EEC[sub Tn] during sampling intervals. The detection efficiencies of the alpha particles were calculated by Monte Carlo method. The lower limits of detection for EEC[sub Rn] and EEC[sub Tn] are estimated to be 0.57 Bq m[sup 13] and 0.07 B1 m[sup [minus]3] for 24 h continuously sampling at a flow rate of 0.9 L min[sup [minus]1]. Themore » measuring results with the new type monitors were confined through intercomparison experiments. In a small survey, a rather high [sup 220]Rn progeny concentration with an average of 1.73 Bq m[sup [minus]3] was observed in traditional Japanese dwellings with soil/mud plastered walls. On the other hand, a very high [sup 232]Th concentration in soil was reported in China. They suggested that there is a possibility of high [sup 220]Rn progeny concentration in both Japan and China.« less
State funding for higher education and RN replacement rates by state: a case for nursing by the numbers in state legislatures.

PubMed

Bargagliotti, L Antoinette

2009-01-01

Amid an enduring nursing shortage and state budget shortfalls, discerning how the percentage of state funding to higher education and other registered nurse (RN) workforce variables may be related to the RN replacement rates (RNRR) in states has important policy implications. Regionally, the age of RNs was inversely related to RNRR. State funding in 2000 significantly predicted the 2004 RNRR, with the percentage of LPNs in 2004 adding to the model. The stability of the model using 2000 and 2004 funding data suggests that state funding creates a climate for RNRR.
Factors related to progression and graduation rates for RN-to-bachelor of science in nursing programs: searching for realistic benchmarks.

PubMed

Robertson, Sue; Canary, Cheryl Westlake; Orr, Marsha; Herberg, Paula; Rutledge, Dana N

2010-03-01

Measurement and analysis of progression and graduation rates is a well-established activity in schools of nursing. Such rates are indices of program effectiveness and student success. The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (2008), in its recently revised Standards for Accreditation of Baccalaureate and Graduate Degree Nursing Programs, specifically dictated that graduation rates (including discussion of entry points, timeframes) be calculated for each degree program. This context affects what is considered timely progression to graduation. If progression and graduation rates are critical outcomes, then schools must fully understand their measurement as well as interpretation of results. Because no national benchmarks for nursing student progression/graduation rates exist, schools try to set expectations that are realistic yet academically sound. RN-to-bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) students are a unique cohort of baccalaureate learners who need to be understood within their own learning context. The purposes of this study were to explore issues and processes of measuring progression and graduation rates in an RN-to-BSN population and to identify factors that facilitate/hinder their successful progression to work toward establishing benchmarks for success. Using data collected from 14 California schools of nursing with RN-to-BSN programs, RN-to-BSN students were identified as generally older, married, and going to school part-time while working and juggling family responsibilities. The study found much program variation in definition of terms and measures used to report progression and graduation rates. A literature review supported the use of terms such as attrition, retention, persistence, graduation, completion, and success rates, in an overlapping and sometimes synonymous fashion. Conceptual clarity and standardization of measurements are needed to allow comparisons and setting of realistic benchmarks. One of the most important factors identified in this study is the potentially prolonged RN-to-BSN timeline to graduation. This underlines the need to look beyond standardized educational norms for graduation rates and consider the realities of "persistence" by which these students are successful in completing their studies. It also raises the question of whether student success and program success/effectiveness are two separate measures or two separate events on one progression timeline. While clarifying our thinking about success in this population of students, the study raised many questions that warrant further research and debate.
Multiple solutions for a class of fractional (p, q)-Laplacian system in RN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Caisheng; Bao, Jinfeng; Song, Hongxue

2018-03-01

In this work, the symmetric mountain pass lemma is employed to establish the existence of infinitely many solutions to the fractional (p, q)-Laplacian system: (-Δ)p su +V1(x ) |u |p -2u =α-1Fu(x ,u ,v ) +λ b1(x ) |u |m -2u and (-Δ)q sv +V2(x ) |v |q -2v =α-1Fv(x ,u ,v ) +μ b2(x ) |v |k -2v in RN, where (-Δ)p s and (-Δ)q s are the fractional p and q-Laplacian operators, respectively, and 0 < s < 1 < q ≤ p, sp < N, p
Group cohesion and nurse satisfaction: examination of a team-building approach.

PubMed

DiMeglio, Karen; Padula, Cynthia; Piatek, Carolyn; Korber, Susan; Barrett, Ann; Ducharme, Maria; Lucas, Sandra; Piermont, Nicole; Joyal, Elaine; DeNicola, Virginia; Corry, Karen

2005-03-01

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of a team-building intervention on group cohesion, nurse satisfaction, and turnover rates. Creating an environment that supports and retains nurses represents a formidable challenge for nursing leaders. Research related to strategies that positively impact the culture in which nurses practice, thus potentially improving nurse satisfaction and reducing turnover, is critically needed. Registered nurses (RNs) employed on inpatient units in a 247-bed, private acute care Magnet teaching hospital participated in this quasi experimental preintervention and postintervention design. The RN-RN interaction subscale from the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators Adapted Index of Work Satisfaction, the National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators Adapted Index of Job Enjoyment, the Group Cohesion Scale, and a facilitator-developed measure were completed preimplementation and postimplementation of unit-tailored intervention strategies, which took place over a 12-month period. Turnover rates were collected 6 month preintervention and postintervention. Improvement in group cohesion, RN-RN interaction, job enjoyment, and turnover was demonstrated. Targeted, unit-based strategies can be an effective means of reducing turnover rates and improving group cohesion and nurse satisfaction.
Radon progeny size distributions and enhanced deposition effects from high radon concentrations in an enclosed chamber.

PubMed

Leonard, Bobby E

2004-01-01

Prior work studying radon progeny in a small enclosed chamber found that at high (222)Rn concentrations an enhanced surface deposition was observed. Subsequent measurements for unfiltered air showed minimal charged particle mobility influence. Progeny particle size measurements reported here, performed at the US Department of Energy Environmental Measurement Laboratory (now with Home Security Department), using the EML graded screen array (GSA) system show in unfiltered air that the high (222)Rn levels causes a reduction in the attached (218)Po progeny airborne particulates and formation of additional normal sized unattached ( approximately 0.80 nm) and also even smaller (218)Po below 0.50 nm. At a (222)Rn level of 51 kBq m(-3), 73% of all (218)Po are of a mean particle diameter of about 0.40 +/- 0.02 nm. At this (222)Rn level, the ratio of (218)Po to (222)Rn airborne concentrations is reduced significantly from the concentration ratio at low (222)Rn levels. Similar reductions and size reformations were observed for the (214)Pb and (214)Bi/Po progeny. The particle size changes are further confirmed using the plateout rates and corresponding deposition velocities. The Crump and Seinfeld deposition theory provides the corresponding particle diffusion coefficients. With the diffusion coefficient to ultrafine clustered particle diameter correlation of Ramamurthi and Hopke, good agreement is obtained between EML GSA and deposition velocity data down to 0.40 nm. Strong evidence is presented that the progeny size reduction is due to, as a result of air ionization, the increased neutralization rate (primarily from electron scavenging of OH molecules) of the initially charged progeny. This is shown to increase with the (1/2) power of (222)Rn concentration and relative humidity as well as increased air change rate in the chamber. These results imply that at (222)Rn levels above 50 kBq m(-3), at relative humidity of 52%, a considerable reduction in lung dose could occur from preferential deposition of the progeny in the nasal and oral passages.
The Effects of Money on Fake Rating Behavior in E-Commerce: Electrophysiological Time Course Evidence From Consumers

PubMed Central

Wang, Cuicui; Li, Yun; Luo, Xuan; Ma, Qingguo; Fu, Weizhong; Fu, Huijian

2018-01-01

Online ratings impose significant effects on the behaviors of potential customers. Thus, online merchants try to adopt strategies that affect this rating behavior, and most of these strategies are connected to money, such as the strategies of returning cash coupons if a consumer gives a five-star rating (RI strategy, an acronym for “returning” and “if”) or returning cash coupons directly with no additional requirements (RN strategy, an acronym for “returning” and “no”). The current study explored whether a certain strategy (RN or RI) was more likely to give rise to false rating behaviors, as assessed by event-related potentials. A two-stimulus paradigm was used in this experiment. The first stimulus (S1) was the picture of a product with four Chinese characters that reflected the product quality (slightly defective vs. seriously defective vs. not defective), and the second stimulus (S2) displayed the coupon strategy (RN or RI). The participants were asked to decide whether or not to give a five-star rating. The behavioral results showed that the RI strategy led to a higher rate of five-star ratings than the RN strategy. For the electrophysiological time courses, the N1, N2, and LPP components were evaluated. The slightly defective products elicited a larger amplitude of the N1 component than the seriously defective and not-defective products, reflecting that perceptual difficulty was associated with the processing of the slightly defective products. The RI strategy evoked a less negative N2 and a more positive LPP than the RN strategy, indicating that the subjects perceived less conflict and experienced stronger incentives when processing the RI strategy. These findings will benefit future studies of fake online comments and provide evidence supporting the policy of forbidding the use of the RI strategy in e-commerce. PMID:29615851
The Effects of Money on Fake Rating Behavior in E-Commerce: Electrophysiological Time Course Evidence From Consumers.

PubMed

Wang, Cuicui; Li, Yun; Luo, Xuan; Ma, Qingguo; Fu, Weizhong; Fu, Huijian

2018-01-01

Online ratings impose significant effects on the behaviors of potential customers. Thus, online merchants try to adopt strategies that affect this rating behavior, and most of these strategies are connected to money, such as the strategies of returning cash coupons if a consumer gives a five-star rating (RI strategy, an acronym for "returning" and "if") or returning cash coupons directly with no additional requirements (RN strategy, an acronym for "returning" and "no"). The current study explored whether a certain strategy (RN or RI) was more likely to give rise to false rating behaviors, as assessed by event-related potentials. A two-stimulus paradigm was used in this experiment. The first stimulus (S1) was the picture of a product with four Chinese characters that reflected the product quality (slightly defective vs. seriously defective vs. not defective), and the second stimulus (S2) displayed the coupon strategy (RN or RI). The participants were asked to decide whether or not to give a five-star rating. The behavioral results showed that the RI strategy led to a higher rate of five-star ratings than the RN strategy. For the electrophysiological time courses, the N1, N2, and LPP components were evaluated. The slightly defective products elicited a larger amplitude of the N1 component than the seriously defective and not-defective products, reflecting that perceptual difficulty was associated with the processing of the slightly defective products. The RI strategy evoked a less negative N2 and a more positive LPP than the RN strategy, indicating that the subjects perceived less conflict and experienced stronger incentives when processing the RI strategy. These findings will benefit future studies of fake online comments and provide evidence supporting the policy of forbidding the use of the RI strategy in e-commerce.
Nurse knowledge, work environment, and turnover in highly specialized pediatric end-of-life care

PubMed Central

Lindley, Lisa C.; Cozad, Melanie J.

2016-01-01

Objective To examine the relationship between nurse knowledge and work environment and Registered Nurse (RN) turnover in perinatal hospice and palliative care organizations. Methods Using nurse intellectual capital theory, a multivariate analysis was conducted with 2007 National Home and Hospice Care Survey data. Results Perinatal hospice and palliative care organizations experienced a 5% turnover rate. The professional experience of advanced practice nurses (APNs) was significantly related to turnover among RNs (β= −0.032, P< 0.05). Compared to organizations with no APNs professional experience, clinical nurse specialists and nurse practitioners significantly reduced RN turnover by 3-percentage points. No other nurse knowledge or work environment variables were associated with RN turnover. Several of the control variables were also associated with RN turnover in the study: organizations serving micropolitan (β= −0.041, P< 0.05) and rural areas (β= −0.037, P< 0.05) had lower RN turnover, compared to urban areas. Organizations with a technology climate where nurses used electronic medical records had a higher turnover rate than those without (β= 0.036, P< 0.05). Conclusions The findings revealed that advanced professional experience in the form of APNs were associated with reductions in RN turnover. This suggests that having a clinical nurse specialist or nurse practitioner on staff may provide knowledge and experience to other RNs, creating stability within the organization. PMID:27188758
Determining the charged fractions of 218Po and 214Pb using an environmental gamma-ray and Rn detector.

PubMed

Maiello, M L; Harley, N H

1989-07-01

The rate of 218Po and 214Pb atoms collected electrostatically inside an environmental gamma-ray and 222Rn detector (EGARD) was measured. These measurements were used to directly infer the charged fraction of 218Po and to calculate the charged fraction of 214Pb. Thirty-two percent of the 218Po was collected electrostatically using approximately -1500 V on a 2.54 cm diameter Mylar covered disc inside a vented A1 EGARD of 1 L volume. About 91% of the 214Pb is collected electrostatically under the same conditions. The measurements were performed in a calibrated 222Rn test chamber at the Environmental Measurements Laboratory (EML) using the Thomas alpha-counting method with 222Rn concentrations averaging about 4300 Bq m-3. The atomic collection rates were used with other measured quantities to calculate the thermoluminescent dosimeter (TLD) signal acquired from EGARD for exposure to 1 Bq m-3 of 222Rn. The calculations account for 222Rn progeny collection using a Teflon electret and alpha and beta detection using TLDs inside EGARD. The measured quantities include the energies of 218Po and 214Po alpha-particles degraded by passage through the 25 microns thick electret. The TLD responses to these alpha- and beta-particles with an average energy approaching that obtained from the combined spectra of 214Pb and 214Bi were also measured. The calculated calibration factor is within 30% of the value obtained by exposing EGARD to a known concentration of 222Rn. This result supports our charged fraction estimates for 218Po and 214Pb.
75 FR 43156 - Notice of Proposed Information Collection Requests

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-07-23

... in the approval process would defeat the purpose of the information collection, violate State or... requirements for foreign nursing schools (National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX... attending foreign medical and nursing schools to gather such scores. Requests for copies of the proposed...
Notes on the space-time decay rate of the Stokes flows in the half space

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chang, Tongkeun; Jin, Bum Ja

2017-07-01

In this paper, a Stokes equations in the half space R+n, n ≥ 2 has been considered. We derive a rapid decay rate of the Stokes flow in space and time when the initial data decreases fast enough and satisfies some additional condition. Initial data decreasing too slowly to be | x | h ∈L1 (R+n) are also considered.
Allometric methodology for the assessment of radon exposures to terrestrial wildlife.

PubMed

Vives i Batlle, J; Copplestone, D; Jones, S R

2012-06-15

A practical approach to calculate (222)Rn daughter dose rates to terrestrial wildlife is presented. The method scales allometrically the relevant parameters for respiration in different species of wildlife, allowing inter-species calculation of the dose per unit radon concentration in air as simple base-and-exponent power functions of the mass. For plants, passive gas exchange through the leaf surface is assumed, also leading to specific power relationships with mass. The model generates conservative predictions in which the main contributor to the dose rate of target tissues of the respiratory system is from α radiation arising from (222)Rn daughters. Tabulated (222)Rn DPURn values are given for 69 species used by the England & Wales Environment Agency for habitats assessments. The approach is then applied to assess the authorised discharges of (222)Rn from sites in England, demonstrating that, from a whole-body dose perspective, the biota considered are protected from effects at the population level. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Perioperative outcomes of 6042 nephrectomies in 2012: surgeon-reported results in the UK from the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) nephrectomy database.

PubMed

Henderson, John M; Fowler, Sarah; Joyce, Adrian; Dickinson, Andrew; Keeley, Francis X

2015-01-01

To present the perioperative outcomes from the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) nephrectomy dataset for 2012, the first year of public reporting of individual surgeon outcomes in the UK. All nephrectomies performed in the year 2012 and recorded in the database were analysed. These were divided into simple nephrectomy (SN), partial nephrectomy (PN), radical nephrectomy (RN), and nephroureterectomy (NU). The estimated capture rate for nephrectomy was 80%. The outcomes measured were 30-day mortality (30-DM), Clavien-Dindo complications grade ≥III, blood transfusion, conversion to open, and length of stay. The overall 30-DM was 0.55% (SN 0.53%; PN 0.10%; RN 0.52%; NU 1.27%). Clavien-Dindo complications grade ≥III were recorded in 3.9% of nephrectomies (SN 4.3%; PN 5.4%; RN 3.1%; NU 4.5%). Blood transfusion was required during surgical admission for 8.4% of nephrectomies (SN 5.2%; PN 3.4%; RN 11.1%; NU 8.3%). Conversion to open was carried out in 5.5% of minimally invasive nephrectomies (SN 6.1%; PN 4.0%; RN 5.5%; NU 5.6%). Open nephrectomy patients remained in hospital for a median of 6 days (SN 7; PN 5; RN 7; NU 8 days), which was higher than the median 4-day stay (SN 3; PN 4; RN 4; NU 5 days) for minimally invasive surgery. Nephrectomy in 2012 was a safe procedure with morbidity and mortality rates comparable with or less than published series. The collection of surgeon-specific data should be iterative with further refinement of data categories, support for the collection process and independent validation of results. © 2014 The Authors. BJU International © 2014 BJU International.
222Rn transport in a fractured crystalline rock aquifer: Results from numerical simulations

USGS Publications Warehouse

Folger, P.F.; Poeter, E.; Wanty, R.B.; Day, W.; Frishman, D.

1997-01-01

Dissolved 222Rn concentrations in ground water from a small wellfield underlain by fractured Middle Proterozoic Pikes Peak Granite southwest of Denver, Colorado range from 124 to 840 kBq m-3 (3360-22700 pCi L-1). Numerical simulations of flow and transport between two wells show that differences in equivalent hydraulic aperture of transmissive fractures, assuming a simplified two-fracture system and the parallel-plate model, can account for the different 222Rn concentrations in each well under steady-state conditions. Transient flow and transport simulations show that 222Rn concentrations along the fracture profile are influenced by 222Rn concentrations in the adjoining fracture and depend on boundary conditions, proximity of the pumping well to the fracture intersection, transmissivity of the conductive fractures, and pumping rate. Non-homogeneous distribution (point sources) of 222Rn parent radionuclides, uranium and 226Ra, can strongly perturb the dissolved 222Rn concentrations in a fracture system. Without detailed information on the geometry and hydraulic properties of the connected fracture system, it may be impossible to distinguish the influence of factors controlling 222Rn distribution or to determine location of 222Rn point sources in the field in areas where ground water exhibits moderate 222Rn concentrations. Flow and transport simulations of a hypothetical multifracture system consisting of ten connected fractures, each 10 m in length with fracture apertures ranging from 0.1 to 1.0 mm, show that 222Rn concentrations at the pumping well can vary significantly over time. Assuming parallel-plate flow, transmissivities of the hypothetical system vary over four orders of magnitude because transmissivity varies with the cube of fracture aperture. The extreme hydraulic heterogeneity of the simple hypothetical system leads to widely ranging 222Rn values, even assuming homogeneous distribution of uranium and 226Ra along fracture walls. Consequently, it is concluded that 222Rn concentrations vary, not only with the geometric and stress factors noted above, but also according to local fracture aperture distribution, local groundwater residence time, and flux of 222Rn from parent radionuclides along fracture walls.
Diesel oil removal by immobilized Pseudoxanthomonas sp. RN402.

PubMed

Nopcharoenkul, Wannarak; Netsakulnee, Parichat; Pinyakong, Onruthai

2013-06-01

Pseudoxanthomonas sp. RN402 was capable of degrading diesel, crude oil, n-tetradecane and n-hexadecane. The RN402 cells were immobilized on the surface of high-density polyethylene plastic pellets at a maximum cell density of 10(8) most probable number (MPN) g(-1) of plastic pellets. The immobilized cells not only showed a higher efficacy of diesel oil removal than free cells but could also degrade higher concentrations of diesel oil. The rate of diesel oil removal by immobilized RN402 cells in liquid culture was 1,050 mg l(-1) day(-1). Moreover, the immobilized cells could maintain high efficacy and viability throughout 70 cycles of bioremedial treatment of diesel-contaminated water. The stability of diesel oil degradation in the immobilized cells resulted from the ability of living RN402 cells to attach to material surfaces by biofilm formation, as was shown by CLSM imaging. These characteristics of the immobilized RN402 cells, including high degradative efficacy, stability and flotation, make them suitable for the purpose of continuous wastewater bioremediation.
Continuing Education for Mentors and a Mentoring Program for RN-to-BSN Students.

PubMed

Cheek, Rita E; Walsh Dotson, Jo Ann; Ogilvie, LeAnn A

2016-06-01

Mentoring programs have been used effectively with graduate and undergraduate nursing students and newly licensed nurses. There are few publications about mentoring for the RN enrolled in a bachelor of science in nursing (RN-to-BSN) program. To address low graduation rates in the public RN-to-BSN nursing programs, the Montana Center to Advance Health Through Nursing designed a mentoring program to help these nurses achieve their BSN. This voluntary program was initiated at an RN-to-BSN program in a 4-year college with six RN students who were paired with a mentor. An interactive, continuing education workshop on mentoring also was developed to prepare experienced nurses for their role as a mentor. This workshop was held nine times across Montana, with a total of 156 attendees. Workshop evaluations were consistently positive. Participants identified time and personality issues as barriers to successful mentoring and recommended expansion of the workshop to a distance-learning format so more nurses could attend. J Contin Educ Nurs. 2016;47(6):272-277. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.
Comparison of Reasons for Nurse Turnover in Magnet® and Non-Magnet Hospitals.

PubMed

Park, Shin Hye; Gass, Stephanie; Boyle, Diane K

2016-05-01

The aim of this study is to compare rates and reasons for registered nurse (RN) turnover by Magnet® status. Although lower RN turnover rates in Magnet hospitals have been documented well in the literature, little is known about specific separation reasons for RN turnover and whether the reasons differ between Magnet and non-Magnet hospitals. This descriptive, correlational study analyzed unit-level 2013 National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators® turnover data (2,958 units; 497 hospitals). Poisson regression and Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test were used. Registered nurse turnover due to environment-related reasons was higher on units in non-Magnet hospitals than units in Magnet hospitals. Units in non-Magnet hospitals had 4.684 times higher turnover rates due to staffing/workload and 1.439 times higher rates due to work schedules than did units in Magnet hospitals. Nursing administrators in both Magnet and non-Magnet hospitals need to continually strive to improve unit work environments, particularly staffing and workload conditions and work scheduling.

Examining Submarine Ground-Water Discharge into Florida Bay by using 222Rn and Continuous Resistivity Profiling

USGS Publications Warehouse

Swarzenski, Peter; Reich, Chris; Rudnick, David

2009-01-01

Estimates of submarine ground-water discharge (SGD) into Florida Bay remain one of the least understood components of a regional water balance. To quantify the magnitude and seasonality of SGD into upper Florida Bay, research activities included the use of the natural geochemical tracer, 222Rn, to examine potential SGD hotspots (222Rn surveys) and to quantify the total (saline + fresh water component) SGD rates at select sites (222Rn time-series). To obtain a synoptic map of the 222Rn distribution within our study site in Florida Bay, we set up a flow-through system on a small boat that consisted of a Differential Global Positioning System, a calibrated YSI, Inc CTD sensor with a sampling rate of 0.5 min, and a submersible pump (z = 0.5 m) that continuously fed water into an air/water exchanger that was plumbed simultaneously into four RAD7 222Rn air monitors. To obtain local advective ground-water flux estimates, 222Rn time-series experiments were deployed at strategic positions across hydrologic and geologic gradients within our study site. These time-series stations consisted of a submersible pump, a Solinist DIVER (to record continuous CTD parameters) and two RAD7 222Rn air monitors plumbed into an air/water exchanger. Repeat time-series 222Rn measurements were conducted for 3-4 days across several tidal excursions. Radon was also measured in the air during each sampling campaign by a dedicated RAD7. We obtained ground-water discharge information by calculating a 222Rn mass balance that accounted for lateral and horizontal exchange, as well as an appropriate ground-water 222Rn end member activity. Another research component utilized marine continuous resistivity profiling (CRP) surveys to examine the subsurface salinity structure within Florida Bay sediments. This system consisted of an AGI SuperSting 8 channel receiver attached to a streamer cable that had two current (A,B) electrodes and nine potential electrodes that were spaced 10 m apart. A separate DGPS continuously sent position information to the SuperSting. Results indicate that the 222Rn maps provide a useful gauge of relative ground-water discharge into upper Florida Bay. The 222Rn time-series measurements provide a reasonable estimate of site- specific total (saline and fresh) ground-water discharge (mean = 12.5+-11.8 cm d-1), while the saline nature of the shallow ground-water at our study site, as evidenced by CPR results, indicates that most of this discharge must be recycled sea water. The CRP data show some interesting trends that appear to be consistent with subsurface geologic and hydrologic characterization. For example, some of the highest resistivity (electrical conductivity-1) values were recorded where one would expect a slight subsurface freshening (for example bayside Key Largo, or below the C111 canal).
Use of video-feedback, reflection, and interactive analysis to improve nurse leadership practices.

PubMed

Crenshaw, Jeannette T

2012-01-01

The chronic shortage of registered nurses (RNs) affects patient safety and health care quality. Many factors affect the RN shortage in the workforce, including negative work environments, exacerbated by ineffective leadership approaches. Improvements in the use of relationship-based leadership approaches lead to healthier work environments that foster RN satisfaction and reduce RN turnover and vacancy rates in acute care settings. In this article, an innovative approach to reduce nurse turnover and decrease vacancy rates in acute care settings is described. Video feedback with reflection and interactive analysis is an untapped resource for nurse leaders and aspiring nurse leaders in their development of effective leadership skills. This unique method may be an effective leadership strategy for addressing recruitment and retention issues in a diverse workforce.
Associations of interleukin-1 gene cluster polymorphisms with C-reactive protein concentration and lung function decline in smoking-induced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

PubMed Central

Wang, Yu; Shumansky, Karey; Sin, Don D; Man, SF Paul; Akhabir, Loubna; Connett, John E; Anthonisen, Nicholas R; Paré, Peter D; Sandford, Andrew J; He, Jian-Qing

2015-01-01

Objective: We reported association of haplotypes formed by IL-1b (IL1B)-511C/T (rs16944) and a variable number of tandem repeats (rs2234663) in intron 3 of IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL1RN) with rate of lung function decline in smoking-induced COPD. The aim of current study was to further investigate this association. Methods: We genotyped an additional 19 polymorphisms in IL1 cluster (including IL1A, IL1B and IL1RN) in non-Hispanic whites who had the fastest (n = 268) and the slowest (n = 292) decline of FEV1% predicted in the same study. We also analyzed the association of all 21 polymorphisms with serum CRP levels. Results: None of 21 polymorphisms showed significant association with rate of decline of lung function or CRP levels after adjusting for multiple comparisons. Before adjusting for multiple comparisons, only IL1RN_19327 (rs315949) showed significant association with lung function decline (P = 0.03, additive model). The frequencies of genotypes containing the IL1RN_19327A allele were 71.9% and 62.2%, respectively in the fast and slow decline groups (P = 0.02, odds ratio = 1.6, 95% confidence interval = 1.1-2.3); the IL1B_5200 (rs1143633) and rs2234663 in IL1RN were associated with serum CRP levels (P=0.04 and 0.03, respectively). Conclusions: No single marker was significantly associated with either rate of lung function decline or serum CRP levels. PMID:26722511
GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT SYMPOSIUM: Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase and mitochondria in Rendement Napole pig growth.

PubMed

Scheffler, T L; Gerrard, D E

2016-09-01

The Rendement Napole mutation (RN-), which is well known to influence pork quality, also has a profound impact on metabolic characteristics of muscle. Pigs with RN- possess a SNP in the γ3 subunit of adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK); AMPK, a key energy sensor in skeletal muscle, modulates energy producing and energy consuming pathways to maintain cellular homeostasis. Importantly, AMPK regulates not only acute response to energy stress but also facilitates long-term adaptation via changes in gene and protein expression. The RN- allele increases AMPK activity, which alters the metabolic phenotype of skeletal muscle by increasing mitochondrial content and oxidative capacity. Fibers with greater oxidative capacity typically exhibit increased protein turnover and smaller fiber size, which indicates that RN- pigs may exhibit decreased efficiency and growth potential. However, whole body and muscle growth of RN- pigs appear similar to that of wild-type pigs and despite increased oxidative capacity, fibers maintain the capacity for hypertrophic growth. This indicates that compensatory mechanisms may allow RN- pigs to achieve rates of muscle growth similar to those of wild-type pigs. Intriguingly, lipid oxidation and mitochondria function are enhanced in RN- pig muscle. Thus far, characteristics of RN- muscle are largely based on animals near market weight. To better understand interaction between energy signaling and protein accretion in muscle, further work is needed to define age-dependent relationships between AMPK signaling, metabolism, and muscle growth.
Biodecolorization of Reactive Yellow-2 by Serratia sp. RN34 Isolated from Textile Wastewater.

PubMed

Najme, Rabia; Hussain, Sabir; Maqbool, Zahid; Imran, Muhammad; Mahmood, Faisal; Manzoor, Hamid; Yasmeen, Tahira; Shehzad, Tanvir

2015-12-01

Remediation of colored textile wastewaters is a matter of interest. In this study, 49 bacteria were isolated from the textile wastewater and tested for their ability to decolorize reactive yellow-2 (RY2) dye. The most efficient isolate, RN34, was identified through amplification, sequencing, and phylogenetic analysis of its 16S rDNA and was designated as Serratia sp. RN34. This bacterium was also found capable of decolorizing other related reactive azo-dyes, including reactive black-5, reactive red-120, and reactive orange-16 but at varying rates. The optimum pH for decolorization of RY2 by the strain RN34 was 7.5 using yeast extract as cosubstrate under static incubation at 30 °C. The strain RN34 also showed potential to decolorize RY2 in the presence of considerable amounts of hexavalent chromium and sodium chloride. A phytotoxicity study demonstrated relatively reduced toxicity of RY2 decolorized products on Vigna radiata plant as compared to the uninoculated RY2 solution.
Measurement of thoron exhalation rates from building materials.

PubMed

de With, G; de Jong, P; Röttger, A

2014-09-01

Thoron (220Rn) exhalation from building materials has become increasingly recognized as a potential source for radiation exposure in dwellings. However, contrary to radon (220Rn), limited information on thoron exposure is available. The purpose of this study is to develop a test method for the determination of the thoron exhalation rate from building materials. The method is validated, and subsequently the thoron exhalation rates from 10 widely-applied concretes, gypsums, brick, limestone, and mortar are determined. The measured thoron exhalation rates of these materials range from 0.01 Bq m-2 s-1 to 0.43 Bq m-2 s-1, with relative standard uncertainties between 6% to 14%.
Factors controlling temporal variability of near-ground atmospheric 222Rn concentration over Central Europe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zimnoch, M.; Wach, P.; Chmura, L.; Gorczyca, Z.; Rozanski, K.; Godlowska, J.; Mazur, J.; Kozak, K.; Jeričević, A.

2014-02-01

Specific activity of 222Rn in near-ground atmosphere has been measured quasi-continuously from January 2005 to December 2009 at two continental sites in Europe: Heidelberg (south-west Germany) and Krakow (southern Poland). Atmosphere was sampled at ca. 30 m and 20 m, respectively, above the local ground. Both stations were equipped with identical instrumentation. Regular observations of 222Rn were supplemented by measurements of surface fluxes of this gas in Krakow urban area, using two entirely different approaches. Atmospheric 222Rn concentrations varied at both sites in a wide range, from less than 2 Bq m-3 to approximately 40 Bq m-3 in Krakow and ca. 35 Bq m-3 in Heidelberg. Averaged over entire observation period, the 222Rn content in Krakow was approximately 30 % higher when compared to Heidelberg (5.86 ± 0.09 Bq -3 and 4.50 ± 0.07 Bq m-3, respectively). Distinct seasonality of 222Rn signal was visible in both presented time series, with higher values recorded generally during late summer and autumn. The surface 222Rn fluxes in Krakow also revealed a distinct seasonality, with broad maximum observed during summer and early autumn and minimum during the winter. Averaged over 5 yr observation period, the night-time surface 222Rn flux was equal 46.8 ± 2.4 Bq m-2 h-1. Although the atmospheric 222Rn levels at Heidelberg and Krakow appeared to be controlled primarily by local factors, it was possible to evaluate the "continental effect" in atmospheric 222Rn content between both sites, related to the gradual build-up of 222Rn concentration in the air masses travelling between Heidelberg and Krakow. The mean value of this load was equal 0.78 ± 0.12 Bq m-3. The measured minimum 222Rn concentrations at both sites and the difference between them was interpreted in the framework of a simple box model coupled with HYSPLIT analysis of air mass trajectories. Best fit of experimental and model data was obtained for the average 222Rn flux over the European continent equal 52 Bq m-2 h-1, the mean transport velocity of the air masses within convective mixed layer of PBL on their route from the Atlantic coast to Heidelberg and Krakow equal 3.5 m s-1, the mean rate constant of 222Rn removal across the top of PBL equal to the 222Rn decay constant and the mean height of the convective mixed layer height equal 1600 m.
An instrument for continuous measurement of 220Rn (and 222Rn) using delayed coincidences between 220Rn and 216Po

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bigu, J.; Elliott, J.

1994-05-01

An instrument has been developed for continuous monitoring of 220Rn. The method of data analysis is based on delayed coincidences between 220Rn and 216Po. The instrument basically consists of a scaler equipped with a photomultiplier tube (PMT) to which a scintillation cell (SC) of the flow through type is optically coupled. The scaler is equipped with a pulse output (P/O) port which provides a TTL pulse, +5 V in amplitude and 5 to 10 μs duration for each nuclear event recorded by the SC and its associated electronic circuitry. The P/O port is connected to a 32 bit counter/timer unit operating at 1 MHz which records and stores the time of arrival of pulses. For laboratory use, the counter/timer is connected to the serial port of a laptop PC. However, for field applications, where space and weight pose severe practical limitations, the PC is substituted by an expanded counter/timer unit which incorporates a muprocessor for data analysis, a LCD for data display, and a keypad to key in function instructions. Furthermore, some additional hardware permits the measurement of 220Rn flux density, J( 220Rn) , from soils and other materials. Because total α-particle count, as well as delayed (α - α) coincidence rates are recorded in two separate channels, the method permits the measurement of 222Rn in addition to 220Rn. The method is particularly useful for low concentration levels. The sensitivity of the method primarily depends on the volume of the SC. For a low volume SC (˜0.16 l), a sensitivity of 0.2 h -1/Bq m -3 for 220Rn and 1.4 h -1/Bq m -3 for 222Rn are readily attainable. For a large volume (1.5 l) SC (external PMT used), the sensitivity for 220Rn is ≥ 1.5 h -1/Bq m -3, depending on the SC design and the operating sampling flowrate. (Note: h -1 stands for counts per hour). The above instrument has been used extensively at the National Radon/Thoron Test Facility (NRTTF) of the Elliot Lake Laboratory for routine monitoring of 220Rn levels since 1992. It has also been used for outdoor and indoor 220Rn measurements, as well as for the determination of J( 220Rn) from earthen materials and the like.
Thoron Mitigation System based on charcoal bed for applications in thorium fuel cycle facilities (part 2): Development, characterization, and performance evaluation.

PubMed

Sudeep Kumara, K; Sahoo, B K; Gaware, J J; Sapra, B K; Mayya, Y S; Karunakara, N

2017-06-01

Exposure due to thoron ( 220 Rn) gas and its decay products in a thorium fuel cycle facility handling thorium or 232 U/ 233 U mixture compounds is an important issue of radiological concern requiring control and mitigation. Adsorption in a flow-through charcoal bed offers an excellent method of alleviating the release of 220 Rn into occupational and public domain. In this paper, we present the design, development, and characterization of a Thoron Mitigation System (TMS) for industrial application. Systematic experiments were conducted in the TMS for examining the 220 Rn mitigation characteristics with respect to a host of parameters such as flow rate, pressure drop, charcoal grain size, charcoal mass and bed depth, water content, and heat of the carrier gas. An analysis of the experimental data shows that 220 Rn attenuation in a flow through charcoal bed is not exponential with respect to the residence time, L/U a (L: bed depth; U a : superficial velocity), but follows a power law behaviour, which can be attributed to the occurrence of large voids due to wall channeling in a flow through bed. The study demonstrates the regeneration of charcoal adsorption capacity degraded due to moisture adsorption, by hot air blowing technique. It is found that the mitigation factor (MF), which is the ratio of the inlet 220 Rn concentration (C in ) to the outlet 220 Rn concentration (C out ), of more than 10 4 for the TMS is easily achievable during continuous operation (>1000 h) at a flow rate of 40 L min -1 with negligible (<1 cm of water column) pressure drop. The Thoron Mitigation System based on adsorption on charcoal bed offers a compact and effective device to remove 220 Rn from affluent air streams in a space constrained domain. The prototype system has been installed in a thorium fuel cycle facility where it is being evaluated for its long-term performance and overall effectiveness in mitigating 220 Rn levels in the workplace. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Preliminary Experiments Using a Passive Detector for Measuring Indoor 220Rn Progeny Concentrations with an Aerosol Chamber.

PubMed

Sorimachi, Atsuyuki; Tokonami, Shinji; Kranrod, Chutima; Ishikawa, Tetsuo

2015-06-01

This paper describes preliminary experiments using a passive detector for integrating measurements of indoor thoron (²²⁰Rn) progeny concentrations with an aerosol chamber. A solid state nuclear detector (CR-39) covered with a thin aluminum-vaporized polyethylene plate (Mylar film) was used to detect only alpha particles emitted from ²¹²Po due to ²²⁰Rn progeny deposited on the detector surfaces. The initial experiment showed that Mylar film with area density of more than 5 mg cm⁻² was suitable to cut off completely alpha particles of 7.7 MeV from ²¹⁴Po of ²²²Rn progeny decay. In the experiment using the passive detector, it was observed that the net track density increased linearly with an increase of time-integrating ²²⁰Rn progeny concentration. As a result of dividing deposition rates by atom concentrations, the deposition velocity was given as 0.023 cm s⁻¹ for total ²²⁰Rn progeny. The model estimates of deposition velocities were 0.330 cm s⁻¹ for unattached ²²⁰Rn progeny and 0.0011 cm s⁻¹ for aerosol-attached ²²⁰Rn progeny using Lai-Nazaroff formulae. These deposition velocities were in the same range with the results reported in the literature. It was also found that the exposure experiments showed little influence of vertical profiles and surface orientations of the passive detector in the chamber on the detection responses, which was in good agreement with that in the model estimates. Furthermore, it was inferred that the main uncertainty of the passive detector was inhomogeneous deposition of Rn progeny onto its detection surfaces.
Natural radioactivity and radon exhalation rates in man-made tiles used as building materials in Japan.

PubMed

Iwaoka, K; Hosoda, M; Suwankot, N; Omori, Y; Ishikawa, T; Yonehara, H; Tokonami, S

2015-11-01

Man-made tiles frequently used in Japan were collected, and activity concentrations and radon ((222)Rn) exhalation rates in these tiles were measured. Dose estimations for inhabitants living in houses built using these tiles were also carried out. The activity concentrations of (226)Ra, (228)Ra and (40)K in the man-made tiles were 31-170, 35-110 and 260-980 Bq kg(-1), respectively. The (222)Rn exhalation rates in the tiles were 8.8-21 μBq m(-2) s(-1). The ranges of experimental activity concentrations and (222)Rn exhalation rates were almost identical to those of natural rocks used as typical building materials in Japan. The maximum value of effective dose to inhabitants living in houses built with the man-made tiles was 0.14 mSv y(-1), which is lower than the reference level range (1-20 mSv y(-1)) for abnormally high levels of natural background radiation published in the ICRP Publication 103. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Fresh Versus Marine Submarine Groundwater Discharge: How 222Rn Might Help Distinguish These Two Sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Smith, C. G.; Cable, J. E.; Martin, J. B.; Roy, M.

2008-05-01

Pore water distributions of 222Rn (t1/2 = 3.83 d), obtained during two sampling trips 9-12 May 2005 and 6-8 May 2006, are used to determine spatial and temporal variations of fluid discharge from a seepage face located along the mainland shoreline of Indian River Lagoon, Florida. Porewater samples were collected from a 30 m transect of multi-level piezometers and analyzed for 222Rn via liquid scintillation counting; the mean of triplicate measurements was used to represent the porewater 222Rn activities. Sediment samples were collected from five vibracores (0, 10, 17.5, 20, and 30 m offshore) and emanation rates of 222Rn (sediment supported) were determined using a standard cryogenic extraction technique. A conceptual 222Rn transport model and subsequent numerical model were developed based on the vertical distribution of dissolved and sediment-supported 222Rn and applicable processes occurring along the seepage face (e.g. advection, diffusion, and nonlocal exchange). The model was solved inversely with the addition of two Monte Carlo (MC) simulations to increase the statistical reliability of three parameters: fresh groundwater seepage velocity (v), irrigation intensity (α0), and irrigation attenuation (α1). The first MC simulation ensures that the Nelder-Mead minimization algorithm converges on a global minimum of the merit function and that the parameters estimates are consistent within this global minimum. The second MC simulation provides 90% confidence intervals on the parameter estimates using the measured 222Rn activity variance. Fresh groundwater seepage velocities obtained from the model decrease linearly with distance from the shoreline; seepage velocities range between 0.6 and 42.2 cm d-1. Based on this linear relationship, the terminus of the fresh groundwater seepage is approximately 25 m offshore and total fresh groundwater discharge for the May-2005 and May-2006 sampling trips are 1.16 and 1.45 m3 d-1 m-1 of shoreline, respectively. We hypothesize that the 25% increase in specific discharge between May-2005 and May- 2006 reflects higher recharge via precipitation to the Surficial aquifer during the highly active 2005 Atlantic hurricane season. Irrigation rates generally decrease offshore for both sampling periods; irrigation rates range between 4.9 and 85.7 cm d-1. Physical and biological mechanisms reasonable for the observed irrigation likely include density-driven convection, wave pumping, and bio-irrigation. The inclusion of both advective and nonlocal exchange processes in the model permits the separation of submarine groundwater discharge into fresh submarine groundwater discharge (seepage velocities) and (re)circulated lagoon water (as irrigation).
Treatment management of small renal masses in the 21st century: a paradigm shift.

PubMed

Sun, Maxine; Abdollah, Firas; Bianchi, Marco; Trinh, Quoc-Dien; Jeldres, Claudio; Thuret, Rodolphe; Tian, Zhe; Shariat, Shahrokh F; Montorsi, Francesco; Perrotte, Paul; Karakiewicz, Pierre I

2012-07-01

Partial (PN) or radical nephrectomy (RN) represents the standard of care for patients with small renal masses. Active surveillance (AS) also may be considered. We examined the rates of PN, RN, and AS within a contemporary population-based cohort. Using the surveillance, epidemiology and end results database, we identified 26,468 patients diagnosed with T1aN0M0 renal cell carcinoma, between years 1988 and 2008. Determinants of PN and AS were assessed using logistic regression analyses within surgically managed patients and within the entire cohort, respectively. Overall, 8,966 (34%), 14,705 (56%), and 2,797 (11%) patients underwent PN, RN, and AS, respectively. The rate of PN increased (4.7% in 1988 to 40.4% in 2008, P<0.001), whereas the rate of RN decreased over time (92.9% in 1988 to 41.4% in 2008, P<0.001). The rate of AS increased over time (2.4% in 1988 to 18.2% in 2008, P<0.001). In multivariable analyses, the determinants for PN consisted of more contemporary year of diagnosis, younger patient age, male gender, Caucasian race, married status, and decreasing tumor size (all P≤0.003). The determinants of AS consisted of more contemporary year of diagnosis, more advanced age, male gender, decreasing tumor size, and unmarried marital status (all P≤0.001). Regional differences for management of localized RCC were detected. It is encouraging that PN rates have increased in an eightfold fashion. Moreover, a fivefold increase was recorded for AS. These figures show a paradigm shift in the management of small renal masses.
Factors controlling temporal variability of near-ground atmospheric 222Rn concentration over central Europe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zimnoch, M.; Wach, P.; Chmura, L.; Gorczyca, Z.; Rozanski, K.; Godlowska, J.; Mazur, J.; Kozak, K.; Jeričević, A.

2014-09-01

Concentration of radon (222Rn) in the near-ground atmosphere has been measured quasi-continuously from January 2005 to December 2009 at two continental sites in Europe: Heidelberg (south-west Germany) and Krakow (southern Poland). The atmosphere was sampled at ca. 30 and 20 m above the local ground. Both stations were equipped with identical instruments. Regular observations of 222Rn were supplemented by measurements of surface fluxes of this gas in the Krakow urban area, using two different approaches. The measured concentrations of 222Rn varied at both sites in a wide range, from less than 2.0 Bq m-3 to approximately 40 Bq m-3 in Krakow and 35 Bq m-3 in Heidelberg. The mean 222Rn content in Krakow, when averaged over the entire observation period, was 30% higher than in Heidelberg (5.86 ± 0.09 and 4.50 ± 0.07 Bq m-3, respectively). Distinct seasonality of 222Rn signal is visible in the obtained time series of 222Rn concentration, with higher values recorded generally during late summer and autumn. The surface 222Rn fluxes measured in Krakow also revealed a distinct seasonality, with broad maximum observed during summer and early autumn and minimum during the winter. When averaged over a 5-year observation period, the night-time surface 222Rn flux was equal to 46.8 ± 2.4 Bq m-2 h-1. Although the atmospheric 222Rn levels at Heidelberg and Krakow appeared to be controlled primarily by local factors, it was possible to evaluate the "continental effect" in atmospheric 222Rn content between both sites, related to gradual build-up of 222Rn concentration in the air masses travelling between Heidelberg and Krakow. The mean value of this build-up was equal to 0.78 ± 0.12 Bq m-3. The measured minimum 222Rn concentrations at both sites and the difference between them was interpreted in the framework of a simple box model coupled with HYSPLIT (Hybrid Single Particle Lagrangian Integrated Trajectory) analysis of air mass trajectories. The best fit of experimental data was obtained for the mean 222Rn flux over the European continent equal to 52 Bq m-2 h-1, the mean transport velocity of the air masses within the convective mixed layer of the planetary boundary layer (PBL) on their route from the Atlantic coast to Heidelberg and Krakow equal to 3.5 m s-1, the mean rate constant of 222Rn removal across the top of the PBL equal to the 222Rn decay constant and the mean height of the convective mixed layer equal to 1600 m.
Loss of Interleukin 1 Receptor Antagonist Enhances Susceptibility to Ebola Virus Infection.

PubMed

Hill-Batorski, Lindsay; Halfmann, Peter; Marzi, Andrea; Lopes, Tiago J S; Neumann, Gabriele; Feldmann, Heinz; Kawaoka, Yoshihiro

2015-10-01

The current outbreak of Ebola virus (EBOV) infection in West Africa is unprecedented, with nearly 26 000 confirmed cases and >10 000 deaths. Comprehensive data on the pathogenesis of EBOV infection are lacking; however, recent studies suggested that fatal EBOV infections are characterized by dysregulation of the innate immune response and a subsequent cytokine storm. Specifically, several studies suggested that hypersecretion of interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) correlates with lethal EBOV infections. To examine the significance of IL-1Ra in EBOV infections, we infected mice that lack the gene encoding IL-1Ra, Il1rn (IL-1RN-KO), and mice with wild-type Il1rn (IL-1RN-WT) with a mouse-adapted EBOV (MA-EBOV). Infected IL-1RN-KO mice lost more weight and had a lower survival rate than IL-1RN-WT mice infected with MA-EBOV. In addition, IL-1RN-KO mice infected with wild-type EBOV, which does not cause lethal infection in adult immunocompetent mice, such as C57BL/6 mice, experienced greater weight loss than IL-1RN-WT mice infected with wild-type EBOV. Further studies revealed that the levels of 6 cytokines in spleens-IL-1α, IL-1β, interleukin 12p40, interleukin 17, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, and regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted-were significantly different between IL-1RN-KO mice and IL-1RN-WT mice infected with MA-EBOV. Collectively, our data suggest that IL-1Ra may have a protective effect upon EBOV infection, likely by damping an overactive proinflammatory immune response. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Examining Student Achievement and Curriculum in a Nursing Program at a Midwestern Community College

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cooper, Sandra E.

2012-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the pathway model of a nursing curriculum and evaluate the relationship and predictive ability of demographic and academic variables on the success or failure of those taking the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN®) and to determine the impact of noncognitive role…
Predictors of NCLEX-PN Success for Practical Nursing Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Eickhoff, Mary Ann

2016-01-01

There is currently a nursing shortage in the United States. By 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects, the number of job openings for Practical Nurses (PN) will be 168,500, an increase of 25% over 2012 (BLS, 2014). Nursing education does not currently meet present, much less future needs. Nursing programs have limited space; according…
Utilization of Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) to Reduce Test Anxiety in High Stakes Testing

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mohler, Marie Elaine

2013-01-01

There are many reasons a person may fail a high stakes test such as the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN®). Sleep deprivation, illness, life stressors, knowledge deficit, and test anxiety are some of the common explanations. A student with test anxiety may feel threatened by this evaluation process. This…
Geochemical and geophysical examination of submarine groundwater discharge and associated nutrient loading estimates into Lynch Cove, Hood Canal, WA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Swarzenski, P.W.; Simonds, F.W.; Paulson, A.J.; Kruse, S.; Reich, C.

2007-01-01

Geochemical tracer data (i.e., 222Rn and four naturally occurring Ra isotopes), electromagnetic (EM) seepage meter results, and high-resolution, stationary electrical resistivity images were used to examine the bi-directional (i.e., submarine groundwater discharge and recharge) exchange of a coastal aquifer with seawater. Our study site for these experiments was Lynch Cove, the terminus of Hood Canal, WA, where fjord-like conditions dramatically limit water column circulation that can lead to recurring summer-time hypoxic events. In such a system a precise nutrient budget may be particularly sensitive to groundwater-derived nutrient loading. Shore-perpendicular time-series subsurface resistivity profiles show clear, decimeter-scale tidal modulation of the coastal aquifer in response to large, regional hydraulic gradients, hydrologically transmissive glacial terrain, and large (4-5 m) tidal amplitudes. A 5-day 222Rn time-series shows a strong inverse covariance between 222Rn activities (0.5−29 dpm L-1) and water level fluctuations, and provides compelling evidence for tidally modulated exchange of groundwater across the sediment/water interface. Mean Rn-derived submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) rates of 85 ± 84 cm d-1 agree closely in the timing and magnitude with EM seepage meter results that showed discharge during low tide and recharge during high tide events. To evaluate the importance of fresh versus saline SGD, Rn-derived SGD rates (as a proxy of total SGD) were compared to excess 226Ra-derived SGD rates (as a proxy for the saline contribution of SGD). The calculated SGD rates, which include a significant (>80%) component of recycled seawater, are used to estimate associated nutrient (NH4+, Si, PO43-, NO3 + NO2, TDN) loads to Lynch Cove. The dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN = NH4 + NO2 + NO3) SGD loading estimate of 5.9 × 104 mol d-1 is 1−2 orders of magnitude larger than similar estimates derived from atmospheric deposition and surface water runoff, respectively.
Spectroscopy of 204,206,208Rn and the systematic behavior of Z=86 isotopes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horn, D.; Baktash, C.; Lister, C. J.

1981-11-01

A spectroscopic investigation of the radon isotopes 204,206,208Rn was performed by means of the reactions 192,194,196Pt(16O,4n)204,206,208Rn and 197Au(14N,5n)206Rn with 16O energies between 85 and 110 MeV and 14N energies between 80 and 94 MeV. γ-γ coincidences, pulsed beam yield functions, angular distributions, and pulsed beam isomeric decay rates were measured. The yrast and near-yrast level structure was established to J~15ℏ, and in each of the three nuclei two isomers above the known Jπ=8+ state were observed. The systematic trends for the Z=86 isotopes are compared with the behavior expected in a single particle model, and increased collectivity is found with decreasing neutron number. Analogies are made with the N=86 system. NUCLEAR REACTIONS 192,194,196Pt (16O,4n), E=85-110 MeV; 197Au(14N,5n), E=80-94 MeV. Measured Iγ(E,t), Iγ(θ), γ-γ(t). Deduced level sequences, Jπ, T12, transition rates. Continuous and pulsed beams, enriched targets, Ge(Li) detectors.

THE EXCEPTIONAL SETS ON THE RUN-LENGTH FUNCTION OF β-EXPANSIONS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zheng, Lixuan; Wu, Min; Li, Bing

Let β > 1 and the run-length function rn(x,β) be the maximal length of consecutive zeros amongst the first n digits in the β-expansion of x ∈ [0, 1]. The exceptional set Emaxφ = x ∈ [0, 1] :liminf n→∞rn(x,β) φ(n) = 0,limsupn→∞rn(x,β) φ(n) = +∞ is investigated, where φ : ℕ → ℝ+ is a monotonically increasing function with limn→∞φ(n) = +∞. We prove that the set Emaxφ is either empty or of full Hausdorff dimension and residual in [0, 1] according to the increasing rate of φ.
AGE-DEPENDENT INHALATION DOSE DUE TO EXPOSURE OF SHORT LIVED PROGENY OF RADON AND THORON FOR DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS IN JAMMU & KASHMIR, HIMALAYAS.

PubMed

Sharma, Sumit; Kumar, Ajay; Mehra, Rohit

2018-05-16

Dosimetric approach is used in this study for the assessment of doses due to inhalation of short lived radon/thoron progeny to the inhabitants of Udhampur district of Jammu & Kashmir. This paper also presents the activity concentrations and unattached fraction of radon and thoron progeny. The observed annual concentration of attached and unattached 222Rn and 220Rn progeny has been found to vary from 8 to 32 and 0.09 to 14 Bq/m3, 0.75 to 3.16 and 0.01 to 1.13 Bq/m3, respectively. The inhalation doses from radon progeny to different body organs of different age groups have been calculated by using the age dependent biokinetic model. The attachment rate of 222Rn and indoor aerosol concentration of 222Rn and 220Rn have been estimated and their relation between them has also been studied. The dose conversion factor for mouth and nasal breathing to different exposure conditions has been obtained from Porstendorfer model.
Trends and perioperative outcomes for laparoscopic and robotic nephrectomy using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database.

PubMed

Liu, Jen-Jane; Leppert, John T; Maxwell, Bryan G; Panousis, Periklis; Chung, Benjamin I

2014-05-01

We sought to examine the trends in perioperative outcomes of kidney cancer surgery stratified by type (radical nephrectomy [RN] vs. partial nephrectomy [PN]) and approach (open vs. minimally invasive). We queried the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database to identify kidney cancer operations performed from 2005 to 2011. We examined 30-day perioperative outcomes including operative time, transfusion rate, length of stay, major morbidity (cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, and infectious), and mortality. A total of 2,902 PN and 5,459 RN cases were identified. The use of PN increased over time, accounting for 39% of all nephrectomies in 2011. Minimally invasive approaches also increased over time for both RN and PN. Open surgery was associated with increased length of stay, receipt of transfusion, major complications, and perioperative mortality. Resident involvement and open approach were independent predictors of major complications for both PN and RN. Additionally, the presence of a medical comorbidity was also a risk factor for complications after RN. The overall complication rates decreased for all approaches over the study period. Minimally invasive approaches to kidney cancer renal surgery have increased with favorable outcomes. The safety of open and minimally invasive PN improved significantly over the study period. Although pathologic features cannot be determined from this data set, these data show that complications from renal surgical procedures are decreasing in an era of increasing use. © 2013 Published by Elsevier Inc.
Continuously Monitoring the Micrometeorology of a Natural Cave System: Hollow Ridge Speleoclimatology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kowalczk, A.; Gaffka, C.; Froelich, P.

2008-05-01

A study of cave microclimatology has been underway since October 2007 in a protected karst cave system near Marianna Florida. We are monitoring cave air, drip water and climatology at Hollow Ridge Cave to help calibrate isotopic and chemical paleoproxies incorporated into actively growing speleothems in Northwest Florida. Multiple monitoring stations positioned in the interior and above the overburden of this 1000 m long cave continuously record temperature (T), relative humidity (RH), barometric pressure (BP), drip rates (precipitation), acoustic airflow (wind) direction and velocity, 222Rn activities and CO2 concentrations. Air samples for 13CO2 analyses are collected periodically along the cave axis. Positively correlated 13CO2 vs. 1/ CO2 indicate soil gas (δ13C= -22 ‰) is the dominant CO2 source. Rn-222 is likely sourced from decay of 226Ra (U-series) in the limestone bedrock. In general, this cave inhales and exhales diurnally. All cave parameters reflect the intensity and longitudinal gradients of each breath modulated by frontal passages and seasonal changes. The diurnal amplitudes of T, RH, 222Rn and CO2 are highest nearest the entrance and almost disappear at the back of the cave, which mostly senses small amplitude frontal and seasonal changes. Radon-222 (20-340 dpm/L) and CO2 (400-1500 ppm) rise and fall coherently. Both gases are higher in the poorly ventilated portions of the cave, but each shows temporal and spatial patterns that reflect different sources - emanation from the enclosing limestone vs. soil gas and dripwater infusion from above. A flooding event due to a rise of the adjacent Chipola River inadvertently sealed the cave entrances, allowing 222Rn to grow in nearly to secular equilibrium (steady-state) in the air trapped inside the cave. Rn-222 peaked at 1200 dpm/L, over three-fold higher than previously measured, while CO2 peaked at 1400 ppm, similar to the highest CO2 values observed during normal conditions. As airflow was fully restricted, decay of 222Rn is balanced only by 222Rn emanation into the cave. Assuming 222Rn emanation into the cave is constant and represented by the secular equilibrium value, we use a simple radon- deficiency model to estimate air exchange rates (fractional tidal air volumes) and CO2 exhalation rates to compare wet (rainy) and dry periods. Daily air exchange rates vary from 18 to 26% of the cave volume. Radon/ CO2 ratios are four-times higher during wet periods than during dry periods, indicating stronger CO2 sources during dry periods. This suggests the cave ventilation system may be entraining soil gas CO2 from overhead fissures when the overlying soil cap is not waterlogged. This is counter to presumptions that wet periods with faster drips and more CO2 degassing from dripwater might increase cave air CO2 levels.
Thoron, radon and air ions spatial distribution in indoor air.

PubMed

Kolarž, Predrag; Vaupotič, Janja; Kobal, Ivan; Ujić, Predrag; Stojanovska, Zdenka; Žunić, Zora S

2017-07-01

Spatial distribution of radioactive gasses thoron (Tn) and radon (Rn) in indoor air of 9 houses mostly during winter period of 2013 has been studied. According to properties of alpha decay of both elements, air ionization was also measured. Simultaneous continual measurements using three Rn/Tn and three air-ion active instruments deployed on to three different distances from the wall surface have shown various outcomes. It has turned out that Tn and air ions concentrations decrease with the distance increase, while Rn remained uniformly distributed. Exponential fittings function for Tn variation with distance was used for the diffusion length and constant as well as the exhalation rate determination. The obtained values were similar with experimental data reported in the literature. Concentrations of air ions were found to be in relation with Rn and obvious, but to a lesser extent, with Tn. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Extensive radioactive characterization of a phosphogypsum stack in SW Spain: 226Ra, 238U, 210Po concentrations and 222Rn exhalation rate.

PubMed

Abril, José-María; García-Tenorio, Rafael; Manjón, Guillermo

2009-05-30

Phosphogypsum (PG) is a by-product of the phosphate fertilizer industries that contains relatively high concentrations of uranium series radionuclides. The US-EPA regulates the agriculture use of PG, attending to its (226)Ra content and to the (222)Rn exhalation rate from inactive stacks. Measurements of (222)Rn exhalation rates in PG stacks typically show a large and still poorly understood spatial and temporal variability, and the published data are scarce. This work studies an inactive PG stack in SW Spain of about 0.5 km(2) from where PG can be extracted for agriculture uses, and an agriculture soil 75 km apart, being representative of the farms to be amended with PG. Activity concentrations of (226)Ra, (238)U and (210)Po have been measured in 30 PG samples (0-90 cm horizon) allowing for the construction of maps with spatial distributions in the PG stack and for the characterization of the associated PG inputs to agriculture soils. Averaged (226)Ra concentrations for the stack were 730+/-60 Bq kg(-1) (d.w.), over the US-EPA limit of 370 Bq kg(-1). (222)Rn exhalation rate has been measured by the charcoal canister method in 49 sampling points with 3 canisters per sampling point. Values in PG stack were under the US-EPA limit of 2600 Bq m(-2)h(-1), but they were one order of magnitude higher than those found in the agriculture soil. Variability in radon emissions has been studied at different spatial scales. Radon exhalation rates were correlated with (226)Ra concentrations and daily potential evapotranspiration (ETo). They increased with ETo in agriculture soils, but showed an opposite behaviour in the PG stack.
A carrier sensed multiple access protocol for high data base rate ring networks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Foudriat, E. C.; Maly, Kurt J.; Overstreet, C. Michael; Khanna, S.; Paterra, Frank

1990-01-01

The results of the study of a simple but effective media access protocol for high data rate networks are presented. The protocol is based on the fact that at high data rates networks can contain multiple messages simultaneously over their span, and that in a ring, nodes used to detect the presence of a message arriving from the immediate upstream neighbor. When an incoming signal is detected, the node must either abort or truncate a message it is presently sending. Thus, the protocol with local carrier sensing and multiple access is designated CSMA/RN. The performance of CSMA/RN with TTattempt and truncate is studied using analytic and simulation models. Three performance factors, wait or access time, service time and response or end-to-end travel time are presented. The service time is basically a function of the network rate, it changes by a factor of 1 between no load and full load. Wait time, which is zero for no load, remains small for load factors up to 70 percent of full load. Response time, which adds travel time while on the network to wait and service time, is mainly a function of network length, especially for longer distance networks. Simulation results are shown for CSMA/RN where messages are removed at the destination. A wide range of local and metropolitan area network parameters including variations in message size, network length, and node count are studied. Finally, a scaling factor based upon the ratio of message to network length demonstrates that the results, and hence, the CSMA/RN protocol, are applicable to wide area networks.
Mechanism of increased clearance of glycated albumin by proximal tubule cells

PubMed Central

Wagner, Mark C.; Myslinski, Jered; Pratap, Shiv; Flores, Brittany; Rhodes, George; Campos-Bilderback, Silvia B.; Sandoval, Ruben M.; Kumar, Sudhanshu; Patel, Monika; Ashish

2016-01-01

Serum albumin is the most abundant plasma protein and has a long half-life due to neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn)-mediated transcytosis by many cell types, including proximal tubule cells of the kidney. Albumin also interacts with, and is modified by, many small and large molecules. Therefore, the focus of the present study was to address the impact of specific known biological albumin modifications on albumin-FcRn binding and cellular handling. Binding at pH 6.0 and 7.4 was performed since FcRn binds albumin strongly at acidic pH and releases it after transcytosis at physiological pH. Equilibrium dissociation constants were measured using microscale thermophoresis. Since studies have shown that glycated albumin is excreted in the urine at a higher rate than unmodified albumin, we studied glucose and methylgloxal modified albumins (21 days). All had reduced affinity to FcRn at pH 6.0, suggesting these albumins would not be returned to the circulation via the transcytotic pathway. To address why modified albumin has reduced affinity, we analyzed the structure of the modified albumins using small-angle X-ray scattering. This analysis showed significant structural changes occurring to albumin with glycation, particularly in the FcRn-binding region, which could explain the reduced affinity to FcRn. These results offer an explanation for enhanced proximal tubule-mediated sorting and clearance of abnormal albumins. PMID:26887834
Observation of lunar radon emanation with the Apollo 15 alpha particle spectrometer.

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gorenstein, P.; Bjorkholm, P.

1972-01-01

The alpha particle spectrometer, a component of the orbital Sim Bay group of 'geochemistry' experiments on Apollo 15, was designed to detect alpha particles emitted during the decay of isotopes of radon gas and her daughter products. The purpose was to measure the gross activity of radon on the lunar surface and to find possible regions of increased local activity. Results are presented from a partial analysis of Apollo 15 data. For the moon as a whole, Rn220 was not observed and the upper limit on its decay rate above the lunar surface is 0.00038 disintegrations/sq cm-sec. Rn222 was marginally observed. Possible variations of radon activity on the lunar surface are being investigated. Po210 (a daughter product of Rn222) has been detected in a broad region from west of Mare Crisium to the Van de Graaff-Orlov region. The observed count rate is (4.6 plus or minus 1.4) x 0.001 disintegrations/sq cm-sec. The observed level of Po210 activity is in excess of the amount that would be in equilibrium with Rn222 by about an order of magnitude. This implies that larger levels of radon emanation have occurred on the moon within a time scale of 10 to 100 years.
What happens to in-soil Radon activity during a long-lasting eruption? Insights from Etna by multidisciplinary data analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Falsaperla, S.; Neri, M.; Di Grazia, G.; Langer, H.; Spampinato, S.

2017-06-01

We analyze short- to long-term changes (from days to months) in Radon (Rn) activity measured nearby (<2 km) the eruptive fractures that fed a lava effusion at Mt. Etna, Italy, between 13 May 2008 and 6 July 2009. The N120-140°E eruptive fractures opened between 3050 and 2620 m above sea level before a dike-forming intrusion fed the ˜14 month-long lava emission. Our high-rate data streams include: Rn, ambient parameters (barometric pressure and soil temperature), and seismic data (earthquakes and volcanic tremor) recorded from January 2008 to July 2009. The analysis highlights repeated episodes of rock-fracturing related to seismic swarms, and vigorous gas pulses and peak values in Rn emissions (maximum ˜4.1×105 Bq/m3 on 16 November 2008), which we interpreted in a conceptual model as the response to inputs from the magmatic system during the eruption. This multidisciplinary study: (i) provides evidence of a close relationship between Rn emission at a fumarole near the summit active craters and local earthquakes, and (ii) enables exploring the important role of the volcanic source on the temporal development of the Rn flux, which may account for the much higher (≫94 m/d) ascent speed of the Rn carrier (vapor) than diffusion. The close location of Rn probes to the active conduits, along with the application of our multidisciplinary approach, may shed new light on the internal dynamics of other active volcanoes worldwide.
Outdoor 220Rn, 222Rn and terrestrial gamma radiation levels: investigation study in the thorium rich Fen Complex, Norway.

PubMed

Mrdakovic Popic, Jelena; Bhatt, Chhavi Raj; Salbu, Brit; Skipperud, Lindis

2012-01-01

The present study was done in the Fen Complex, a Norwegian area rich in naturally occurring radionuclides, especially in thorium ((232)Th). Measurement of radioactivity levels was conducted at the decommissioned iron (Fe) and niobium (Nb) mining sites (TENORM) as well as at the undisturbed wooded sites (NORM), all open for free public access. The soil activity concentrations of (232)Th (3280-8395 Bq kg(-1)) were significantly higher than the world and the Norwegian average values and exceeded the Norwegian screening level (1000 Bq kg(-1)) for radioactive waste, while radium ((226)Ra) was present at slightly elevated levels (89-171 Bq kg(-1)). Terrestrial gamma dose rates were also elevated, ranging 2.6-4.4 μGy h(-1). Based on long-term surveys, the air concentrations of thoron ((220)Rn) and radon ((222)Rn) reached 1786 and 82 Bq m(-3), respectively. Seasonal variation in the outdoor gamma dose rates and Rn concentrations was confirmed. Correlation analyses showed a linear relationship between air radiation levels and the abundance of (232)Th in soil. The annual outdoor effective radiation doses for humans (occupancy 5 h day(-1)) were estimated to be in the range of 3.0-7.7 mSv, comparable or higher than the total average (summarized indoor and outdoor) exposure dose for the Norwegian population (2.9 mSv year(-1)). On the basis of all obtained results, this Norwegian area should be considered as enhanced natural radiation area (ENRA).
RECURRENT NOVAE IN M31

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shafter, A. W.; Henze, M.; Rector, T. A.

2015-02-01

The reported positions of 964 suspected nova eruptions in M31 recorded through the end of calendar year 2013 have been compared in order to identify recurrent nova (RN) candidates. To pass the initial screen and qualify as a RN candidate, two or more eruptions were required to be coincident within 0.′1, although this criterion was relaxed to 0.′15 for novae discovered on early photographic patrols. A total of 118 eruptions from 51 potential RN systems satisfied the screening criterion. To determine what fraction of these novae are indeed recurrent, the original plates and published images of the relevant eruptions havemore » been carefully compared. This procedure has resulted in the elimination of 27 of the 51 progenitor candidates (61 eruptions) from further consideration as RNe, with another 8 systems (17 eruptions) deemed unlikely to be recurrent. Of the remaining 16 systems, 12 candidates (32 eruptions) were judged to be RNe, with an additional 4 systems (8 eruptions) being possibly recurrent. It is estimated that ∼4% of the nova eruptions seen in M31 over the past century are associated with RNe. A Monte Carlo analysis shows that the discovery efficiency for RNe may be as low as 10% that for novae in general, suggesting that as many as one in three nova eruptions observed in M31 arise from progenitor systems having recurrence times ≲100 yr. For plausible system parameters, it appears unlikely that RNe can provide a significant channel for the production of Type Ia supernovae.« less
A hybrid classroom-online curriculum format for RN-BSN students: cohort support and curriculum structure improve graduation rates.

PubMed

Davidson, Susan C; Metzger, Richard; Lindgren, Katherine S

2011-05-01

As more registered nurses (RNs) return to school to obtain a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN), innovative ways must be found to support them in this endeavor. Barriers for RNs who return to school include scheduling of coursework and fear of failure. One school of nursing with a traditional BSN program reviewed its RN-BSN track, with its low retention and graduation rates. With input from nursing leaders and nurses in the community, the school applied for and was awarded a 3-year Health Resources and Services Administration grant to redesign the RN-BSN program. A hybrid classroom-online curriculum is offered in a structured, sequential format so that the RNs are admitted once a year and must complete the courses as a group, in a cohort. Data collected from evaluations showed that program support, technology support, and social support from peers encouraged the RNs to "stay the course," and 100% completed the requirements to graduate. Copyright 2011, SLACK Incorporated.
Baccalaureate education in nursing and patient outcomes.

PubMed

Blegen, Mary A; Goode, Colleen J; Park, Shin Hye; Vaughn, Thomas; Spetz, Joanne

2013-02-01

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of registered nurse (RN) education by determining whether nurse-sensitive patient outcomes were better in hospitals with a higher proportion of RNs with baccalaureate degrees. The Future of Nursing report recommends increasing the percentage of RNs with baccalaureate degrees from 50% to 80% by 2020. Research has linked RN education levels to hospital mortality rates but not with other nurse-sensitive outcomes. This was a cross-sectional study that, with the use of data from 21 University HealthSystem Consortium hospitals, analyzed the association between RN education and patient outcomes (risk-adjusted patient safety and quality of care indicators), controlling for nurse staffing and hospital characteristics. Hospitals with a higher percentage of RNs with baccalaureate or higher degrees had lower congestive heart failure mortality, decubitus ulcers, failure to rescue, and postoperative deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism and shorter length of stay. The recommendation of the Future of Nursing report to increase RN education levels is supported by these findings.
Measurements of soil and canopy exchange rates in the Amazon rain forest using Rn-222

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trumbore, S. E.; Keller, M.; Wofsy, S. C.; Da Costa, J. M.

1990-01-01

Measurements were taken of the emission of Rn-222 from Amazon forest rocks and soils and used as a tracer of ventilation of the forest canopy layer at night. It was determined that the greatest resistance to transfer of trace gases from the soil to the atmosphere lies in the soil air space. Profiles of Rn-222 and CO2 showed steepest concentration gradients in the layer between 0 and 3 m above soil surface. Aerodynamic resistances calculated for this layer from Rn-222 and CO2 varied from 1.6 to 18 s/cm, with greater resistance during the afternoon than at night. The resistance to exchange with air from the entire 41 m layer below the canopy averaged 4.8 s/cm during 13 nights of CO2 profiles. The calculated average time to flush the layer below 41 m is 5.5 hr, and it is concluded that this indicates that significant exchange occurs despite nocturnal stratification.
Advection within shallow pore waters of a coastal lagoon, Florida

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cable, J.E.; Martin, Jonathan B.; Swarzenski, Peter W.; Lindenberg, Mary K.; Steward, Joel

2004-01-01

Ground water sources can be a significant portion of a local water budget in estuarine environments, particularly in areas with high recharge rates, transmissive aquifers, and permeable marine sediments. However, field measurements of ground water discharge are often incongruent with ground water flow modeling results, leaving many scientists unsure which estimates are accurate. In this study, we find that both measurements and model results are reasonable. The difference between estimates apparently results from the sources of water being measured and not the techniques themselves. In two locations in the Indian River Lagoon estuarine system, we found seepage meter rates similar to rates calculated from the geochemical tracers 222Rn and 226Ra. Ground water discharge rates ranged from 4 to 9 cm/d using seepage meters and 3 to 20 cm/d using 222Rn and 226Ra. In contrast, in comparisons to other studies where finite element ground water flow modeling was used, much lower ground water discharge rates of ∼0.05 to 0.15 cm/d were estimated. These low rates probably represent discharge of meteoric ground water from land-recharged aquifers, while the much higher rates measured with seepage meters, 222Rn, and 226Ra likely include an additional source of surface waters that regularly flush shallow (< 1 m depth) sediments. This resultant total flow of mixed land-recharged water and recirculated surface waters contributes to the total biogeochemical loading in this shallow estuarine environment.
Quantifying hyporheic exchange in a karst stream using 222Rn

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khadka, M. B.; Martin, J. B.; Kurz, M. J.

2013-12-01

The hyporheic zone is a critical interface between groundwater and river water environments and is characterized by steep biogeochemical gradients. Understanding how this interface affects solute transport, nutrient cycling and contaminant attenuation is essential for better water resource management of streams. However, this understanding is constrained due to difficulty associated with quantification of exchange of water through the hyporheic zone. We tested a radon (222Rn) method to estimate the hyporheic water residence time and exchange rate in the bottom sediment of the spring-fed Ichetucknee River, north-central Florida. The river, which flows over the top of the unconfined karstic Floridan Aquifer, is characterized by a broad bedrock channel partially in-filled with unconsolidated sediments. Radon (222Rn) activity in the pore waters of the channel sediments differs from the amount expected from sediment production and decay. Although most radon in streams originates from sources in bottom sediments, the Ichetucknee River water has 222Rn activities (251×5 PCi/L) that are nearly twice that of the pore water (128×15 PCi/L). The river water 222Rn activity is consistent with that of the source springs, suggesting the source of Rn in the river is from deep within the aquifer rather than bottom sediments and that the excess 222Rn in the pore water results from hyporheic exchange. Profiles of radon concentrations with depth through the sediments show that the mixing of stream water and pore water extends 35-45 cm below the sediment and water interface. Based on a model that integrates the excess radon with depth, we estimate the water exchange rate to be between 1.1 and 1.6 cm/day with an average value of 1.3×0.2 cm/day. Water that exchanges across the sediment-water interface pumps oxygen into the sediments, thereby enhancing organic carbon remineralization, as well as the production of NH4+ and PO43- and their fluxes from sediments to the stream. As opposed to conventional in-stream tracer injection method which estimates exchange between the stream and both the hyporheic zone and the surface transient storage zone, the 222Rn approach measures the water exchange between stream and hyporheic sediments only. Although the present method is tested on a spring-fed karst stream, it has potential for any freshwater system (e.g. wetland, lake) where distinct radon activity and production between surface water and underlying sediments occur.
Radon in the soil air of Estonia.

PubMed

Petersell, Valter; Täht-Kok, Krista; Karimov, Mark; Milvek, Heli; Nirgi, Siim; Raha, Margus; Saarik, Krista

2017-01-01

Several investigations in Estonia during 1996¬-1999 have shown that permissible level (200 Bq/m 3 ) of radon (222Rn) in indoor air is exceeded in 33% of the inspected dwellings. This makes Estonia one of the five countries with highest radon risk in Europe (Fig 1). Due to correlation between the soil radon risk level and radon concentration in houses, small scale radon risk mapping of soil air was carried out (one study point per 70-100 km 2 ). It turned out that one-third of Estonian mainland has high radon risk potential, where radon concentration in soil air exceeds safe limit of 50 kBq/m 3 . In order to estimate radon content in soil air, two different methods developed in Sweden were used simultaneously. Besides measuring radon content from soil air at the depth of 80 cm with an emanometer (RnM), maximum potential content of radon in soil (RnG) was estimated based on the rate of eU (226Ra) concentration in soil, which was acquired by using gamma-ray spectrometer. Mapping and following studies revealed that simultaneously measured RnG and RnM in study points may often differ. To inspect the cause, several monitoring points were set up in places with different geological conditions. It appeared that unlike the RnG content, which remains close to average level in repeated measurements, the RnM content may differ more than three times periodically. After continuous observations it turned out that concentration of directly measured radon depended on various factors being mostly controlled by mineral composition of soil, properties of topsoil as well as different factors influencing aeration of soil. The results of Rn monitoring show that reliable level of radon risk in Estonian soils can only be acquired by using calculated Rn-concentration in soil air based on eU content and directly measured radon content of soil air in combination with interpreting specific geological and geochemical situations in the study points. Copyright Â© 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
A new beaded carbon molecular sieve sorbent for {sup 222}Rn monitoring

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Scarpitta, S.C.

1996-05-01

A new commercially available beaded carbon molecular sieve sorbent, Carboxen-564 (20/45 mesh), was tested and compared to Calgon-PCB (40/80) activated carbon for its adsorptive and desorptive characteristics under controlled conditions of temperature (25{degrees})C and relative humidity (RH). The amount of water vapor adsorbed by the beaded carbon molecular sieve material was typically a factor of 4 lower than the activated carbon, with a concomitant fourfold increase in the {sup 222}Rn adsorption coefficient, K{sub Rn}. The maximum K{sub Rn} value for a thin layer of Carboxen-564, following a 2-d exposure at 40% RH, was 7.2 Bq kg{sup {minus}1} per Bq m{supmore » {minus}3}. The K{sub Rn} for a 1-cm bed, following a 2-d exposure was 5.5 Bq m{sup {minus}3}, a 25% reduction. under dynamic sampling conditions, where 0.4 g of the beaded carbon molecular sieve was contained in a 6 cm x 0.4 cm diameter tube, the maximum K{sub Rn} value was 6.5 Bq m{sup {minus}3} after 2.5 h of sampling at 29% RH when the input flow rate was 4.2 x 10{sup {minus}3} m{sup 3} h{sup {minus}1}. Kinetic studies were also conducted under passive sampling conditions. The data show that the {sup 222}Rn buildup time-constant for a thin layer of the beaded carbon molecular sieve material was 1.3 h, whereas that of a 1 cm bed was 13 h. The {sup 222}Rn desorption time-constants, from gram amounts of the beaded carbon molecular sieve material was 1.3 h, whereas that of a 1 cm bed was 13 h. The {sup 222}Rn desorption time-constants, from gram amounts of the beaded carbon molecular sieve material into air and into a commercially available toluene based liquid scintillation cocktail, were 2 h and 3 h, respectively. Carboxen`s high {sup 222}Rn adsorbing capacity, rapid kinetics, hydrophobicity and physical properties makes it an attractive alternative to other commercially available activated carbon used in passive and dynamic sampling devices. 18 refs., 7 figs.« less
Hilar location is an independent prognostic factor for recurrence in T1 renal cell carcinoma after nephrectomy.

PubMed

Shim, Myungsun; Song, Cheryn; Park, Sejun; Kim, Aram; Choi, Seung-Kwon; Kim, Choung-Soo; Ahn, Hanjong

2015-01-01

We investigated the prognostic significance of tumor location at the renal hilum near the sinus structure on the recurrence in T1 renal cell carcinoma (RCC). A total of 1,818 T1 RCC patients who underwent radical (RN) or partial nephrectomy (PN) from 1997 to 2011 were retrospectively reviewed. A hilar tumor was defined as a tumor abutting the main renal artery and/or vein or its segmental branches, without invasion. We compared the recurrence-free survival (RFS) rates between hilar and nonhilar T1 RCC and analyzed predictors of RFS after nephrectomy. Patients with hilar tumors showed a poorer 5-year RFS compared with nonhilar tumors both in T1a (89.7 vs. 98.5 %, p < 0.001) and T1b (81.6 vs. 95.1 %, p < 0.001) RCCs. Among patients who underwent RN and PN, hilar tumors were associated with lower 5-year RFS (87.6 vs. 97.2 % for RN, 78.1 vs. 98.2 % for PN, both p < 0.001). In T1a hilar tumor, PN was associated with poorer 5-year RFS than RN (79.5 vs. 93.0 %, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, a hilar location remained as an independent predictor of recurrence in both T1a and T1b tumors (both p = 0.001). Hilar tumors show a higher recurrence rate than nonhilar counterparts in T1 RCC. In T1a hilar tumors, PN demonstrated poorer RFS than RN. Potential intrinsic renal anatomical or lymphovascular structural differences as well as differences in cancer characteristics need further investigations.

Adult student satisfaction in an accelerated RN-to-BSN program: a follow-up study.

PubMed

Boylston, Mary T; Jackson, Christina

2008-01-01

This mixed-method study revealed accelerated RN-to-BSN (bachelor of science in nursing) students' levels of satisfaction with a wide range of college services in a small university. Building on seminal research on the topic [Boylston, M. T., Peters, M. A., & Lacey, M. (2004). Adult student satisfaction in traditional and accelerated RN-to-BSN programs. Journal of Professional Nursing, 20, 23-32.], the Noel-Levitz Adult Student Priorities Survey (ASPS) and qualitative interview data revealed primary factors involved in nontraditional (adult) accelerated RN-to-BSN student satisfaction. The ASPS assesses both satisfaction with and importance of the following factors: academic advising effectiveness, academic services, admissions and financial aid effectiveness, campus climate, instructional effectiveness, registration effectiveness, safety and security, and service excellence. Of these factors, participants considered instructional effectiveness and academic advising effectiveness as most important and concomitantly gave high satisfaction ratings to each. In contrast, convenience of the bookstore, counseling services, vending machines, and computer laboratories were given low importance ratings. The participants cited convenience as a strong marketing factor. Loss of financial aid or family crisis was given as a reason for withdrawal and, for most students, would be the only reason for not completing the BSN program. Outcomes of this investigation may guide faculty, staff, and administrators in proactively creating an educational environment in which a nontraditional student can succeed.
Investigation of Natural Radioactivity in a Monazite Processing Plant in Japan.

PubMed

Iwaoka, Kazuki; Yajima, Kazuaki; Suzuki, Toshikazu; Yonehara, Hidenori; Hosoda, Masahiro; Tokonami, Shinji; Kanda, Reiko

2017-09-01

Monazite is a naturally occurring radioactive material that is processed for use in a variety of domestic applications. At present, there is little information available on potential radiation doses experienced by people working with monazite. The ambient dose rate and activity concentration of natural radionuclides in raw materials, products, and dust in work sites as well as the Rn and Rn concentrations in work sites were measured in a monazite processing plant in Japan. Dose estimations for plant workers were also conducted. The activity concentration of the U series in raw materials and products for the monazite processing plant was found to be higher than the relevant values described in the International Atomic Energy Agency Safety Standards. The ambient dose rates in the raw material yard were higher than those in other work sites. Moreover, the activity concentrations of dust in the milling site were higher than those in other work sites. The Rn concentrations in all work sites were almost the same as those in regular indoor environments in Japan. The Rn concentrations in all work sites were much higher than those in regular indoor environments in Japan. The maximum value of the effective dose for workers was 0.62 mSv y, which is lower than the reference level range (1-20 mSv y) for abnormally high levels of natural background radiation published in the International Commission of Radiological Protection Publication 103.
Predicting Persistence in Practical Nursing and Success on the NCLEX-PN: Examining Demographic, Non-Academic, and Academic Variables

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Davis, Alicia Debra

2015-01-01

The United States is now in the midst of a major nursing shortage that is predicted to get worse over the next ten years (Kurzen, 2005). The Health Resources and Services Administration reports that all 50 states will suffer from a nursing shortage by 2020 (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2004). This means that there will be a…
Prediction of radiation necrosis in a rodent model using magnetic resonance imaging apparent transverse relaxation (R_{2}^{*} )

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belliveau, Jean-Guy; Jensen, Michael D.; Stewart, James M. P.; Solovey, Igor; Klassen, L. Martyn; Bauman, Glenn S.; Menon, Ravi S.

2018-02-01

Background and purpose. Radiation necrosis remains an irreversible long-term side-effect following radiotherapy to the brain. The ability to predict areas that could ultimately develop into necrosis could lead to prevention and management of radiation necrosis. Materials and Methods. Fischer 344 rats were irradiated using two platforms (micro-CT irradiator and x-Rad 225 IGRT) with radiation up to 30 Gy for the micro-CT and 40 Gy for the xRAD-224 to half the brain. Animals were subsequently imaged using a 9.4 T MRI scanner every 2-4 weeks for up to 28 weeks using a 7-echo gradient echo sequence. The apparent transverse relaxation constant (R2* ) was calculated and retrospectively analyzed. Results. Animals irradiated with the low-dose rate micro-CT did not exhibit any symptoms or imaging changes associated with RN. Animals irradiated with the xRAD-225 exhibited imaging changes consistent with RN at week 24. Analysis of the R2* coefficient within the lesion and hippocampus shows the potential for detection of RN up to 10 weeks prior to morphological changes. Conclusions. The ability to predict areas of RN and increases of R2* within the hippocampus provides a method for long-term monitoring and prediction of RN.
Nurse workforce characteristics and infection risk in VA Community Living Centers: a longitudinal analysis.

PubMed

Uchida-Nakakoji, Mayuko; Stone, Patricia W; Schmitt, Susan K; Phibbs, Ciaran S

2015-03-01

To examine effects of workforce characteristics on resident infections in Veterans Affairs (VA) Community Living Centers (CLCs). A 6-year panel of monthly, unit-specific data included workforce characteristics (from the VA Decision Support System and Payroll data) and characteristics of residents and outcome measures (from the Minimum Data Set). A resident infection composite was the dependent variable. Workforce characteristics of registered nurses (RN), licensed practical nurses (LPN), nurse aides (NA), and contract nurses included: staffing levels, skill mix, and tenure. Descriptive statistics and unit-level fixed effects regressions were conducted. Robustness checks varying workforce and outcome parameters were examined. Average nursing hours per resident day was 4.59 hours (SD=1.21). RN tenure averaged 4.7 years (SD=1.64) and 4.2 years for both LPN (SD=1.84) and NA (SD=1.72). In multivariate analyses RN and LPN tenure were associated with decreased infections by 3.8% (incident rate ratio [IRR]=0.962, P<0.01) and 2% (IRR=0.98, P<0.01) respectively. Robustness checks consistently found RN and LPN tenure to be associated with decreased infections. Increasing RN and LPN tenure are likely to reduce CLC resident infections. Administrators and policymakers need to focus on recruiting and retaining a skilled nursing workforce.
Characterization of dynamical systems under noise using recurrence networks: Application to simulated and EEG data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puthanmadam Subramaniyam, Narayan; Hyttinen, Jari

2014-10-01

In this letter, we study the influence of observational noise on recurrence network (RN) measures, the global clustering coefficient (C) and average path length (L) using the Rössler system and propose the application of RN measures to analyze the structural properties of electroencephalographic (EEG) data. We find that for an appropriate recurrence rate (RR>0.02) the influence of noise on C can be minimized while L is independent of RR for increasing levels of noise. Indications of structural complexity were found for healthy EEG, but to a lesser extent than epileptic EEG. Furthermore, C performed better than L in case of epileptic EEG. Our results show that RN measures can provide insights into the structural properties of EEG in normal and pathological states.
222Rn and 220Rn concentrations in soil gas of Karkonosze-Izera Block (Sudetes, Poland).

PubMed

Malczewski, Dariusz; Zaba, Jerzy

2007-01-01

Soil gas 222Rn and 220Rn concentrations were measured at 18 locations in the Karkonosze-Izera Block area in southwestern Poland. Measurements were carried out in surface air and at sampling depths of 10, 40 and 80 cm. Surface air 222Rn concentrations ranged from 4 to 2160 Bq m(-3) and 220Rn ranged from 4 to 228 Bq m(-3). The concentrations for 10 and 40 cm varied from 142 Bq m(-3) to 801 kBq m(-3) and 102 Bq m(-3) to 64 kBq m(-3) for 222Rn and 220Rn, respectively. At 80 cm 222Rn concentrations ranged from 94 Bq m(-3) to >1 MBq m(-3). The 220Rn concentrations at 80 cm varied from 45 Bq m(-3) to 48 kBq m(-3). The concentration versus depth profiles for 222Rn differed for soils developed on fault zones, uranium deposits or both. Atmospheric air temperature and soil gas 222Rn and 220Rn were negatively correlated. At sampling sites with steep slopes, 220Rn concentrations decreased with depth.
An international marine-atmospheric {sup 222}Rn measurement intercomparison in Bermuda. Part 1: NIST calibration and methodology for standardized sample additions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Colle, R.; Unterweger, M.P.; Hodge, P.A.

1996-01-01

As part of an international {sup 222}Rn measurement intercomparison conducted at Bermuda in October 1991, NIST provided standardized sample additions of known, but undisclosed (blind) {sup 222}Rn concentrations that could be related to US national standards. The standardized sample additions were obtained with a calibrated {sup 226}Ra source and a specially-designed manifold used to obtain well-known dilution factors from simultaneous flow-rate measurements. The additions were introduced over sampling periods of several hours (typically 4 h) into a common streamline on a sampling tower used by the participating laboratories for their measurements. The standardized {sup 222}Rn activity concentrations for the intercomparisonmore » ranged from approximately 2.5 Bq {center_dot} m{sup {minus}3} to 35 Bq {center_dot} m{sup {minus}3} (of which the lower end of this range approached concentration levels for ambient Bermudian air) and had overall uncertainties, approximating a 3 standard deviation uncertainty interval, of about 6% to 13%. This paper describes the calibration and methodology for the standardized sample additions.« less
An International Marine-Atmospheric 222Rn Measurement Intercomparison in Bermuda Part I: NIST Calibration and Methodology for Standardized Sample Additions

PubMed Central

Collé, R.; Unterweger, M. P.; Hodge, P. A.; Hutchinson, J. M. R.

1996-01-01

As part of an international 222Rn measurement intercomparison conducted at Bermuda in October 1991, NIST provided standardized sample additions of known, but undisclosed (“blind”) 222Rn concentrations that could be related to U.S. national standards. The standardized sample additions were obtained with a calibrated 226Ra source and a specially-designed manifold used to obtain well-known dilution factors from simultaneous flow-rate measurements. The additions were introduced over sampling periods of several hours (typically 4 h) into a common streamline on a sampling tower used by the participating laboratories for their measurements. The standardized 222Rn activity concentrations for the intercomparison ranged from approximately 2.5 Bq · m−3 to 35 Bq · m−3 (of which the lower end of this range approached concentration levels for ambient Bermudian air) and had overall uncertainties, approximating a 3 standard deviation uncertainty interval, of about 6 % to 13 %. This paper describes the calibration and methodology for the standardized sample additions. PMID:27805090
Time dependence of 222Rn, 220Rn and their progenies' distributions in a diffusion chamber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stevanovic, N.; Markovic, V. M.; Nikezic, D.

2017-11-01

Diffusion chamber with SSNTD (Solid State Nuclear Track Detector) placed inside is a passive detector for measuring the activity of 222Rn and 220Rn (radon and thoron) and their progenies. Calibration from detected alpha particle tracks to progeny activity is often acquired from theoretical models. One common assumption related to these models found in literature is that concentrations of 222Rn and 220Rn at the entrance of a chamber are constant during the exposure. In this paper, concentrations of 222Rn and 220Rn at the entrance of the chamber are taken to be variable with time, which is actually the case in reality. Therefore, spatial distributions of 222Rn and 220Rn and their progenies inside the diffusion chamber should be time dependent. Variation of 222Rn and 220Rn concentrations on the entrance of the chamber was modeled on the basis of true measurements. Diffusion equations in cylindrical coordinates were solved using FDM (Finite Difference Method) to obtain spatial distributions as functions of time. It was shown that concentrations of 222Rn, 220Rn and their progenies were not homogeneously distributed in the chamber. Due to variable 222Rn and 220Rn concentrations at the entrance of the chamber, steady state (the case when concentration of 222Rn, 220Rn and their progenies inside the chamber remains unchanged with time) could not be reached. Deposition of progenies on the chamber walls was considered and it was shown that distributions of deposited progenies were not uniform over walls' surface.
The effect of cytochrome P2C19 and interleukin-1 polymorphisms on H. pylori eradication rate of 1-week triple therapy with omeprazole or rabeprazole, amoxycillin and clarithromycin in Chinese people.

PubMed

Zhang, L; Mei, Q; Li, Q S; Hu, Y M; Xu, J M

2010-12-01

Genetic polymorphism of interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1rα) are associated with efficacy of acid suppression, whereas cytochrome P (CYP) 2C19 polymorphism influences the metabolism of proton pump inhibitor family. Thus, CYP2C19 and IL-1 polymorphisms may affect the efficacy of H. pylori eradication therapy. We compared the efficacies of omeprazole and rabeprazole on eradication of H. pylori in relation to CYP2C19, IL-1B and IL-1RN genotypes in Chinese people. Two hundred and forty Chinese with peptic ulcer disease were randomly assigned to the following regimens: amoxicillin and clarithromycin together with omeprazole (OAC) or rabeprazole (RAC). CYP2C19*2 and *3, IL1B-511, IL1B-31, IL1B+ 3954 and intron 2 of the IL-1RN genotypes were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The intention-to-treat-based cure rate of the OAC regimen was significantly lower than that of the RAC regimen in the CYP2C19 wild-type homozygotes (P = 0·014). No significant differences in the cure rates were observed among the IL-1RN and the IL-1B genotype groups. The rabeprazole-based triple regimen was better than the omeprazole in Chinese patients with the CYP2C19 extensive metabolizer genotype. The effectiveness of the PPI/AC regimen is unrelated to IL-1B and IL1-RN genetic polymorphism. © 2010 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Calculating graduation rates.

PubMed

Starck, Patricia L; Love, Karen; McPherson, Robert

2008-01-01

In recent years, the focus has been on increasing the number of registered nurse (RN) graduates. Numerous states have initiated programs to increase the number and quality of students entering nursing programs, and to expand the capacity of their programs to enroll additional qualified students. However, little attention has been focused on an equally, if not more, effective method for increasing the number of RNs produced-increasing the graduation rate of students enrolling. This article describes a project that undertook the task of compiling graduation data for 15 entry-level programs, standardizing terms and calculations for compiling the data, and producing a regional report on graduation rates of RN students overall and by type of program. Methodology is outlined in this article. This effort produced results that were surprising to program deans and directors and is expected to produce greater collaborative efforts to improve these rates both locally and statewide.
Uptake of the natural radioactive gas radon by an epiphytic plant.

PubMed

Li, Peng; Zhang, Ruiwen; Gu, Mintian; Zheng, Guiling

2018-01-15

Radon ( 222 Rn) is a natural radioactive gas and the major radioactive contributor to human exposure. The present effective ways to control Rn contamination are ventilation and adsorption with activated carbon. Plants are believed to be negligible in reducing airborne Rn. Here, we found epiphytic Tillandsia brachycaulos (Bromeliaceae) was effective in reducing airborne Rn via the leaves. Rn concentrations in the Rn chamber after Tillandsia plant treatments decreased more than those in the natural situation. The specialized foliar trichomes densely covering Tillandsia leaves play a major role in the uptake of Rn because the amplified rough leaf surface area facilitates deposition of Rn progeny particles and the powdery epicuticular wax layer of foliar trichomes uptakes liposoluble Rn. The results provide us a new ecological strategy for Rn contamination control, and movable epiphytic Tillandsia plants can be applied widely in Rn removal systems. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
The loss of residual visual memories over the passage of time.

PubMed

Mercer, Tom; Duffy, Paul

2015-01-01

There has been extensive discussion of the causes of short-term forgetting. Some accounts suggest that time plays an important role in the loss of representations, whereas other models reject this notion and explain all forgetting through interference processes. The present experiment used the recent-probes task to investigate whether residual visual information is lost over the passage of time. On each trial, three unusual target objects were displayed and followed by a probe stimulus. The task was to determine whether the probe matched any of the targets, and the next trial commenced after an intertrial interval lasting 300 ms, 3.3 s, or 8.3 s. Of critical interest were recent negative (RN) trials, on which the probe matched a target from the previous trial. These were contrasted against nonrecent negative (NRN) trials, in which the probe had not been seen in the recent past. RN trials damaged performance and slowed reaction times in comparison to NRN trials, highlighting interference. However, this interfering effect diminished as the intertrial interval was lengthened, suggesting that residual visual information is lost as time passes. This finding is difficult to reconcile with interference-based models and suggests that time plays some role in forgetting.
Establishment of a Rotor Model Basis.

DTIC Science & Technology

1982-06-01

2 FC = J r2 dr = (r r3) W) rA Defining b, = 1 (r2 - N =(A3) b2= r the segment extremities are given by equations (87) as rn(+) = ( nbl + b2 )I1/2 (A...rn(_)] - FC n= 1 N 2 ((2n - 1)b I + 2b2 ][vnb + b2 - .(n - l)bj + b2 -F Cn= 1 S11N-i [(2N - l)bj + 2b2]rT - (b, + 2 b2)rA - b I / nbl + b- FC n=1...EEM = 4 [rn(+) + rn(-)]2[rn(+) - rn(-)] - FC n= 1 N 2 2 4 [rn(+) - rn(_)J[rn(+) + rn(_ )] - FC n= 1 = b (/I + b 2 + bI2+2 E nbl + b2 - FC 4 bj + b 2
Magnetostratigraphic correlations of Permian-Triassic marine-to-terrestrial sections from China

USGS Publications Warehouse

Glen, J.M.G.; Nomade, S.; Lyons, J.J.; Metcalfe, I.; Mundil, R.; Renne, P.R.

2009-01-01

We have studied three Permian–Triassic (PT) localities from China as part of a combined magnetostratigraphic, 40Ar/39Ar and U–Pb radioisotopic, and biostratigraphic study aimed at resolving the temporal relations between terrestrial and marine records across the Permo-Triassic boundary, as well as the rate of the biotic recovery in the Early Triassic. The studied sections from Shangsi (Sichuan Province), Langdai (Guihzou Province), and the Junggar basin (Xinjiang Province), span marine, paralic, and terrestrial PT environments, respectively. Each of these sections was logged in detail in order to place geochronologic, paleomagnetic, geochemical, conodont and palynologic samples within a common stratigraphic context. Here we present rock-magnetic, paleomagnetic and magnetostratigraphic results from the three localities.At Shangsi, northern Sichuan Province, we sampled three sections spanning Permo-Triassic marine carbonates. Magnetostratigraphic results from the three sections indicate that the composite section contains at least eight polarity chrons and that the PT boundary occurs within a normal polarity chron a short distance above the mass extinction level and a reversed-to-normal (R-N) polarity reversal. Furthermore, the onset of the Illawarra mixed interval lies below the sampled section indicating that the uppermost Permian Changhsingian and at least part of the Wuchiapingian stages postdate the end of the Kiaman Permo-Carboniferous Reversed Superchron.At Langdai, Guizhou Province, we studied magnetostratigraphy of PT paralic mudstone and carbonate sediments in two sections. The composite section spans an R-N polarity sequence. Section-mean directions pass a fold test at the 95% confidence level, and the section-mean poles are close to the mean PT pole for the South China block. Based on biostratigraphic constraints, the R-N transition recorded at Langdai is consistent with that at Shangsi and demonstrates that the PT boundary occurred within a normal polarity chron a short distance above the mass extinction level.In the southern Junggar basin, Xinjiang Province, in northwest China, we determined the magnetostratigraphy of three sections of a terrestrial sequence. Normal and reversed polarity directions are roughly antipodal, and magnetostratigraphies from the three sections are highly consistent. Combined bio- and magneto-stratigraphy used to correlate this sequence to other PT sequences suggests that the previously-proposed biostratigraphic PT boundary in the Junggar sections was most likely misplaced by earlier workers suggesting that further work is necessary to confidently place the PT boundary there.
A descriptive study of employment patterns and work environment outcomes of specialist nurses in Canada.

PubMed

Doran, Diane; Duffield, Christine; Rizk, Paul; Nahm, Sang; Chu, Charlene H

2014-01-01

The purpose was to describe the number, demographic characteristics, work patterns, exit rates, and work perceptions of nurses in Ontario, Canada, in 4 specialty classifications: advanced practice nurse (APN)-clinical nurse specialist (CNS), APN-other, primary healthcare nurse practitioner [RN(extended class [EC])], and registered nurse (RN) with specialty certification. The objectives were to (1) describe how many qualified nurses are available by specialty class; (2) create a demographic profile of specialist nurses; (3) determine the proportions of specialist and nonspecialist nurses who leave (a) direct patient care and (b) nursing practice annually; (4) determine whether specialist and nonspecialist nurses differ in their self-ratings of work environment, job satisfaction, and intention to remain in nursing. Employment patterns refer to nurses' employment status (eg, full-time, part-time, casual), work duration (ie, length of employment in nurses and in current role), and work transitions (ie, movement in and out of the nursing workforce, and movement out of current role). A longitudinal analysis of the Ontario nurses' registration database from 2005 to 2010 and a survey of specialist nurses in Canada was conducted. The setting was Canada. The database sample consisted of 3 specialist groups, consisting of RN(EC), CNS, and APN-other, as well as 1 nonspecialist RN staff nurse group. The survey sample involved 359 nurses who were classified into groups based on self-reported job title and RN specialty-certification status. Data sources included College of Nurses of Ontario registration database and survey data. The study measures were the Nursing Work Index, a 4-item measure of job satisfaction, and 1-item measure of intent to leave current job. Nurses registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario were tracked over the study period to identify changes in their employment status with comparisons made between nurses employed in specialist roles and those registered as general staff nurses. Analysis involved descriptive summaries, mean comparisons with independent-samples t test, and χ(2) tests for categorical data. Exit rates from direct practice were highest for APN-other (7.6%) and CNS (6.2%) and lowest for RN(EC) (1.0%) and staff nurses (1.2%). χ(2) Tests indicated yearly exit rates of both APN-other and CNS nurse groups were significantly higher than those of staff nurses in all years evaluated (α = .025). Every specialist employment group scored significantly higher than staff nurses on measures of work environment and satisfaction outcomes. We provided a description of specialist nurses in Ontario and examined the relationship between specialization and employment patterns of nurses to inform nurse retention strategies in the future. Employment in specialist nursing positions is significantly associated with differences in transitions or exits from nursing among the specialist and nonspecialist groups. Registered nurses (EC) displayed improved retention characteristics compared with staff nurses. Advanced practice nurse-other and APN-CNS exit rates from nursing practice in Ontario were comparable to staff nurses, but exit rates from direct clinical practice roles were higher than those of staff nurses. Targeted strategies are required to retain CNS and APN-other in direct clinical practice roles.
Monte Carlo calculations of LR115 detector response to 222Rn in the presence of 220Rn.

PubMed

Nikezić, D; Yu, K N

2000-04-01

The sensitivities (in m) of bare LR115 detectors and detectors in diffusion chambers to 222Rn and 220Rn chains are calculated by the Monte Carlo method. The partial sensitivities of bare detectors to the 222Rn chain are larger than those to the 220Rn chain, which is due to the higher energies of alpha particles in the 220Rn chain and the upper energy limit for detection for the LR115 detector. However, the total sensitivities are approximately equal because 220Rn is always in equilibrium with its first progeny, which is not the case for the 222Rn chain. The total sensitivity of bare LR115 detectors to 222Rn chain depends linearly on the equilibrium factor. The overestimation in 222Rn measurements with bare detectors caused by 220Rn in air can reach 10% in normal environmental conditions. An analytical relationship between the equilibrium factor and the ratio between track densities on the bare detector and the detector enclosed in chamber is given in the last part of the paper. This ratio is also affected by 220Rn, which can disturb the determination of the equilibrium factor.
Alternate approaches to repress endogenous microRNA activity in Arabidopsis thaliana

PubMed Central

Wang, Ming-Bo

2011-01-01

MicroRnAs (miRnAs) are an endogenous class of regulatory small RnA (sRnA). in plants, miRnAs are processed from short non-protein-coding messenger RnAs (mRnAs) transcribed from small miRnA genes (MIR genes). Traditionally in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis), the functional analysis of a gene product has relied on the identification of a corresponding T-DnA insertion knockout mutant from a large, randomly-mutagenized population. However, because of the small size of MIR genes and presence of multiple, highly conserved members in most plant miRnA families, it has been extremely laborious and time consuming to obtain a corresponding single or multiple, null mutant plant line. Our recent study published in Molecular Plant1 outlines an alternate method for the functional characterization of miRnA action in Arabidopsis, termed anti-miRnA technology. Using this approach we demonstrated that the expression of individual miRnAs or entire miRnA families, can be readily and efficiently knocked-down. Our approach is in addition to two previously reported methodologies that also allow for the targeted suppression of either individual miRnAs, or all members of a MIR gene family; these include miRnA target mimicry2,3 and transcriptional gene silencing (TGS) of MIR gene promoters.4 All three methodologies rely on endogenous gene regulatory machinery and in this article we provide an overview of these technologies and discuss their strengths and weaknesses in inhibiting the activity of their targeted miRnA(s). PMID:21358288
The Effect of CO 2 on the Measurement of 220Rn and 222Rn with Instruments Utilising Electrostatic Precipitation

DOE PAGES

Lane-Smith, Derek; Sims, Kenneth

2013-06-09

In some volcanic systems, thoron and radon activity and CO 2 flux, in soil and fumaroles, show a relationship between ( 220Rn/ 222Rn) and CO 2 efflux. It is theorized that deep, magmatic sources of gas are characterized by high 222Rn activity and high CO 2 efflux, whereas shallow sources are indicated by high 220Rn activity and relatively low CO 2 efflux. In this paper we evaluate whether the observed inverse relationship is a true geochemical signal, or potentially an analytical artifact of high CO 2 concentrations. We report results from a laboratory experiment using the RAD7 radon detector, knownmore » 222Rn (radon) and 220Rn (thorn), and a controllable percentage of CO 2 in the carrier gas. Our results show that for every percentage of CO 2, the 220Rn reading should be multiplied by 1.019, the 222Rn radon should be multiplied by 1.003 and the 220Rn/ 222Rn ratio should be multiplied by 1.016 to correct for the presence of the CO 2.« less

The Effect of CO 2 on the Measurement of 220Rn and 222Rn with Instruments Utilising Electrostatic Precipitation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lane-Smith, Derek; Sims, Kenneth

In some volcanic systems, thoron and radon activity and CO 2 flux, in soil and fumaroles, show a relationship between ( 220Rn/ 222Rn) and CO 2 efflux. It is theorized that deep, magmatic sources of gas are characterized by high 222Rn activity and high CO 2 efflux, whereas shallow sources are indicated by high 220Rn activity and relatively low CO 2 efflux. In this paper we evaluate whether the observed inverse relationship is a true geochemical signal, or potentially an analytical artifact of high CO 2 concentrations. We report results from a laboratory experiment using the RAD7 radon detector, knownmore » 222Rn (radon) and 220Rn (thorn), and a controllable percentage of CO 2 in the carrier gas. Our results show that for every percentage of CO 2, the 220Rn reading should be multiplied by 1.019, the 222Rn radon should be multiplied by 1.003 and the 220Rn/ 222Rn ratio should be multiplied by 1.016 to correct for the presence of the CO 2.« less
Relationships between 222Rn dissolved in ground water supplies and indoor 222Rn concentrations in some Colorado front range houses

USGS Publications Warehouse

Folger, P.F.; Nyberg, P.; Wanty, R.B.; Poeter, E.

1994-01-01

Indoor 222Rn concentrations were measured in 37 houses with alpha track detectors placed in water-use rooms near water sources (bathrooms, laundry rooms, and kitchens) and in non-water-use living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms away from water sources. Results show that relative contributions of 222Rn to indoor air from water use are insignificant when soil-gas concentrations are high but become increasingly important as the ratio of 222Rn-in-water:222Rn-in-soil gas increases. High soil-gas 222Rn concentrations may mask 222Rn contributions from water even when waterborne 222Rn concentrations are as high as 750 kBq m-3. Ground water in Precambrian Pikes Peak granite averages 340 kBq m-3222Rn, vs. 170 kBq m-3 in Precambrian migmatite, but average 222Rn concentrations in soil gas are also lower in migmatite. Because the ratio of 222Rn-in- water:222Rn-in-soil gas may be consistently higher for houses in migmatite than in Pikes Peak granite, indoor air in houses built on migmatite may have a greater relative contribution from water use even though average 222Rn concentrations in the water are lower. Continuous monitoring of 222Rn concentrations in air on 15-min intervals also indicates that additions to indoor concentrations from water use are significant and measurable only when soil-gas concentrations are low and concentrations in water are high. When soil-gas concentrations were mitigated to less than 150 Bq m-3 in one house, water contributes 20-40% of the annual indoor 222Rn concentration in the laundry room (222Rn concentration in water of 670 kBq m-3). Conversely, when the mitigation system is inactive, diurnal fluctuations and other variations in the soil-gas 222Rn contribution swamp the variability due to water use in the house. Measurable variations in indoor concentrations from water use were not detected in one house despite a low soil-gas contribution of approximately 150 Bq m-3 because waterborne 222Rn concentrations also are low (80 kBq m-3). This result suggests that 222Rn concentrations in water near the recommended EPA limit in drinking water of 11 kBq m-3 may not contribute measurable amounts of 222Rn to indoor air in most houses.
Transfer of Herb-Resistance Plasmid From Escherichia coli to Staphylococcus aureus Residing in the Human Urinary Tract

PubMed Central

Tong, Yan Qing; Xin, Bing; Zhu, Li

2014-01-01

Background: Plasmid transfer among bacteria provides a means for dissemination of resistance. Plasmid Analysis has made it possible to track plasmids that induce resistance in bacterial population. Objectives: To screen the presence of herb-resistance plasmid in Escherichia coli strains and determine the transferability of this resistance plasmid directly from E. coli to the Gram-positive, Staphylococcus aureus. Materials and Methods: The donor strain E. coli CP9 and recipient strain S. aureus RN450RF were isolated from UTI patients. E. coli CP9 was highly resistant to herbal concoction. Isolates of S. aureus RN450RF were fully susceptible. Total plasmid DNA was prepared and transferred into E. coli DH5α. Transconjugants were selected on agar plates containing serial dilutions of herbal concoction. Resistance plasmid was transferred to susceptible S. aureus RN450RFin triple replicas. The mating experiments were repeated twice. Results: The identified 45 kb herb-resistance plasmid could be transferred from E. coli CP9 isolates to E. coli DH5α. As a consequence E. coli DH5α transconjugant MIC increased from 0.0125 g/mL to 0.25 g/mL. The plasmid was easily transferred from E. coli CP9 strain to S. aureus RN450RF with a mean transfer rate of 1×10-2 transconjugants/recipient. The E. coli donor and the S. aureus RN450RF transconjugant contained a plasmid of the same size, which was absent in the recipient before mating. Susceptibility testing showed that the S. aureus RN450RF transconjugant was resistant to herbal concoction. Conclusions: E. coli herb-resistance plasmid can replicate and be expressed in S. aureus. PMID:25147679
Intraoperative Conversion From Partial to Radical Nephrectomy: Incidence, Predictive Factors, and Outcomes.

PubMed

Petros, Firas G; Keskin, Sarp K; Yu, Kai-Jie; Li, Roger; Metcalfe, Michael J; Fellman, Bryan M; Chang, Courtney M; Gu, Cindy; Tamboli, Pheroze; Matin, Surena F; Karam, Jose A; Wood, Christopher G

2018-06-01

To evaluate preoperative and intraoperative predictors of conversion to radical nephrectomy (RN) in a cohort of patients undergoing a planned partial nephrectomy (PN) for renal cell carcinoma (RCC). A single-center, retrospective review was conducted using our PN database that includes patients who were scheduled to undergo PN (regardless of the approach) but were converted to RN between August 1990 and December 2016. Reasons for conversion were collected from the operative report. Patient demographics and perioperative variables were compared with the successful PN group. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess predictors of conversion. A total of 1857 patients were scheduled to undergo PN. Of these patients, 90 (5%) were converted to RN. The multivariate model showed that larger tumor size (odds ratio [OR] = 1.20, P = .040), higher RENAL nephrometry score (OR = 1.41, P = .001), hilar tumor or renal sinus invasion (OR = 2.80, P = .004), laparoscopic PN (OR = 7.34, P <.001), intraoperative bleeding (OR = 19.62, P <.001), positive surgical margin (OR = 31.85, P <.001), and advanced pathologic tumor-stage (T3 or T4) (OR = 7.29, P <.001) were associated with increased odds of intraoperative conversion to RN. The rate of conversion to RN was low in patients who were scheduled to undergo PN in this series. Larger tumor size with increasing complexity, hilar tumor location or renal sinus invasion, locally advanced tumors, laparoscopic PN but not robotic PN, bleeding complication, and positive surgical margin were associated with intraoperative conversion from scheduled PN to RN. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Preparation of SRN1-type coupling adducts from aliphatic gem-dinitro compounds in ionic liquids.

PubMed

Kamimura, Akio; Toyoshima, Seiichi

2012-04-25

S(RN)1-type coupling adducts are readily prepared by the reaction between a-sulfonylesters or a-cyanosulfones and gem-dinitro compounds in ionic liquids. The reactions progress smoothly and recovered ionic liquids can be used for several iterations, as long as they are washed with water to remove alkali metallic salts. The reaction rate is slower than the corresponding S(RN)1 reaction in DMSO, but no acceleration on irradiation or no inhibition in the presence of m-DNB are observed.
Millennials Almost Twice As Likely To Be Registered Nurses As Baby Boomers Were.

PubMed

Auerbach, David I; Buerhaus, Peter I; Staiger, Douglas O

2017-10-01

Baby-boomer registered nurses (RNs), the largest segment of the RN workforce from 1981 to 2012, are now retiring. This would have led to nurse shortages but for the surprising embrace of the profession by millennials-who are entering the nurse workforce at nearly double the rate of the boomers. Still, the boomers' retirement will reduce growth in the size of the RN workforce to 1.3 percent per year for the period 2015-30. Project HOPE—The People-to-People Health Foundation, Inc.
222Rn emanation from uranium-glazed ceramics.

PubMed

Biagioni, R N; Sheets, R W

2001-02-01

Orange-red uranium-glazed dinnerware was found to emanate 222Rn to produce an average of less than 0.1 Bq 222Rn decay per piece, which should have no associated health risks. Comparison of 222Rn emanation to 226Ra in glazes (measured by alpha spectrometry) indicated inefficient emanation (<5%) of 222Rn, consistent with the low radon levels observed and with the presence of 222Rn progeny in glazes. These studies also showed that reagent grade uranium compounds may emanate measurable 222Rn.
Retirement financial planning and the RN: an integrative literature review.

PubMed

Keele, Shanna; Alpert, Patricia T

2013-11-01

This integrative literature review examined the current research on RN retirement. The review identified 3 critical gaps in knowledge: (a) minimal knowledge regarding the economic impact on RN retirement, (b) incomplete information regarding the demographics of RN retirement, and (c) a scarcity of prospective longitudinal RN workforce studies. Future research must address these gaps to better address RN workforce sustainability.
Retirement Financial Planning and the RN: An Integrative Literature Review.

PubMed

Keele, Shanna; Alpert, Patricia T

2015-10-01

This integrative literature review examined the current research on RN retirement. The review identified 3 critical gaps in knowledge: (a) minimal knowledge regarding the economic impact on RN retirement, (b) incomplete information regarding the demographics of RN retirement, and (c) a scarcity of prospective longitudinal RN workforce studies. Future research must address these gaps to better address RN workforce sustainability.
BSN completion barriers, challenges, incentives, and strategies.

PubMed

Duffy, Marie T; Friesen, Mary Ann; Speroni, Karen Gabel; Swengros, Diane; Shanks, Laura A; Waiter, Pamela A; Sheridan, Michael J

2014-04-01

The objectives of this study were to explore RN perceptions regarding barriers/challenges and incentives/supports for BSN completion and identify recommendations to increase RN BSN completion. The Institute of Medicine's 2011 The Future of Nursing report recommended the proportion of RNs with a BSN increase to 80% by 2020. This qualitative study included 41 RNs who participated in 1 of 6 focus groups based on their BSN completion status. Primary themes were sacrifices, barriers/challenges, incentives/supports, value, how to begin, and pressure. Primary BSN completion barriers/challenges were work-life balance and economic issues. Incentives/supports identified were financial compensation, assistance from employer and academic institution, and encouragement from family. Institutional strategies recommended for increasing BSN completion rates were improved access to education and financial support facilitated by collaboration between hospitals and academic institutions. Exploring RN barriers/challenges and incentives/supports for BSN completion can lead to implementation of institutional strategies, such as tuition reimbursement and academic collaboration.
Effect of staff turnover on staffing: A closer look at registered nurses, licensed vocational nurses, and certified nursing assistants.

PubMed

Kash, Bita A; Castle, Nicholas G; Naufal, George S; Hawes, Catherine

2006-10-01

We examined the effects of facility and market-level characteristics on staffing levels and turnover rates for direct care staff, and we examined the effect of staff turnover on staffing levels. We analyzed cross-sectional data from 1,014 Texas nursing homes. Data were from the 2002 Texas Nursing Facility Medicaid Cost Report and the Area Resource File for 2003. After examining factors associated with staff turnover, we tested the significance and impact of staff turnover on staffing levels for registered nurses (RNs), licensed vocational nurses (LVNs) and certified nursing assistants (CNAs). All three staff types showed strong dependency on resources, such as reimbursement rates and facility payor mix. The ratio of contracted to employed nursing staff as well as RN turnover increased LVN turnover rates. CNA turnover was reduced by higher administrative expenditures and higher CNA wages. Turnover rates significantly reduced staffing levels for RNs and CNAs. LVN staffing levels were not affected by LVN turnover but were influenced by market factors such as availability of LVNs in the county and women in the labor force. Staffing levels are not always associated with staff turnover. We conclude that staff turnover is a predictor of RN and CNA staffing levels but that LVN staffing levels are associated with market factors rather than turnover. Therefore, it is important to focus on management initiatives that help reduce CNA and RN turnover and ultimately result in higher nurse staffing levels in nursing homes.
Medicaid payment rates, case-mix reimbursement, and nursing home staffing--1996-2004.

PubMed

Feng, Zhanlian; Grabowski, David C; Intrator, Orna; Zinn, Jacqueline; Mor, Vincent

2008-01-01

We examined the impact of state Medicaid payment rates and case-mix reimbursement on direct care staffing levels in US nursing homes. We used a recent time series of national nursing home data from the Online Survey Certification and Reporting system for 1996-2004, merged with annual state Medicaid payment rates and case-mix reimbursement information. A 5-category response measure of total staffing levels was defined according to expert recommended thresholds, and examined in a multinomial logistic regression model. Facility fixed-effects models were estimated separately for Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), and Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) staffing levels measured as average hours per resident day. Higher Medicaid payment rates were associated with increases in total staffing levels to meet a higher recommended threshold. However, these gains in overall staffing were accompanied by a reduction of RN staffing and an increase in both LPN and CNA staffing levels. Under case-mix reimbursement, the likelihood of nursing homes achieving higher recommended staffing thresholds decreased, as did levels of professional staffing. Independent of the effects of state, market, and facility characteristics, there was a significant downward trend in RN staffing and an upward trend in both LPN and CNA staffing. Although overall staffing may increase in response to more generous Medicaid reimbursement, it may not translate into improvements in the skill mix of staff. Adjusting for reimbursement levels and resident acuity, total staffing has not increased after the implementation of case-mix reimbursement.
Regional scale net radiation estimation by means of Landsat and TERRA/AQUA imagery and GIS modeling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cristóbal, J.; Ninyerola, M.; Pons, X.; Llorens, P.; Poyatos, R.

2009-04-01

Net radiation (Rn) is one of the most important variables for the estimation of surface energy budget and is used for various applications including agricultural meteorology, climate monitoring and weather prediction. Moreover, net radiation is an essential input variable for potential as well as actual evapotranspiration modeling. Nowadays, radiometric measurements provided by Remote Sensing and GIS analysis are the technologies used to compute net radiation at regional scales in a feasible way. In this study we present a regional scale estimation of the daily Rn on clear days, (Catalonia, NE of the Iberian Peninsula), using a set of 22 Landsat images (17 Landsat-5 TM and 5 Landsat-7 ETM+) and 171 TERRA/AQUA images MODIS from 2000 to 2007 period. TERRA/AQUA MODIS images have been downloaded by means of the EOS Gateway. We have selected three different types of products which contain the remote sensing data we have used to model daily Rn: daily LST product, daily calibrated reflectances product and daily atmospheric water vapour product. Landsat-5 TM images have been corrected by means of conventional techniques based on first order polynomials taking into account the effect of land surface relief using a Digital Elevation Model, obtaining an RMS less than 30 m. Radiometric correction of Landsat non-thermal bands has been done following the methodology proposed by Pons and Solé (1994), which allows to reduce the number of undesired artifacts that are due to the effects of the atmosphere or to the differential illumination which is, in turn, due to the time of the day, the location in the Earth and the relief (zones being more illuminated than others, shadows, etc). Atmospheric correction of Landsat thermal band has been carried out by means of a single-channel algorithm improvement developed by Cristóbal et al. (2009) and the land surface emissivity computed by means of the methodology proposed by Sobrino and Raissouni (2000). Rn has been estimated through the balance among the net shortwave radiation Rn and the net longwave radiation. In addition, two types of approaches have been carried out for its determination: the estimation of the variables implied in the calculation of Rn at daily level (Rndl); and the calculation of the Rn at the time of satellite pass (Rni) and its subsequent conversion to daily Rn by means of the Rn ratio. Net shortwave radiation has been computed by means of albedo and a solar radiation model obtained through a DEM following the methodology of Pons and Ninyerola (2008).This methodology takes into account the position of the Sun, the angles of incidence, the projected shadows and the distance from the Earth to the Sun at one hour intervals. The diffuse radiation is estimated from the direct radiaton and the exoatmospheric direct solar irradiance is estimated with the Page equation (1986) and fitted by Baldasano et al. (1994). Net longwave radiation has been calculated through land surface temperature and emissivity, atmospheric water vapour and air temperature. Air temperature has been modeled by means of multiple regression analysis and GIS interpolation using ground meteorological stations. Finally, air emissivity has been computed using air temperature models and atmospheric water vapour following the methodology developed by Dilley and O'Brien (1998). Finally, models have been validated through a set of 13 ground meteorological standard stations and an experimental station placed in a Mediterranean mountain area over a Pinus sylvestris stand. Obtained results show a mean RMSE of 20 W m-2 in the case of Landsat and a mean RMSE of 22 W m-2 in the case of TERRA/AQUA MODIS, being these results in agreement with other published results, but also offering better RMSE in some cases. Keywords: Net radiation, Landsat, TERRA/AQUA MODIS, GIS modeling, regional scale.
Registration of six germplasm lines of cotton, Gosspyium hirsutum L. with resistance to root-knot and reniform nematodes

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Six Upland cotton, Gossypium hirsutum L., germplasm lines, M Rk-Rn 1, M Rk-Rn 2, M Rk-Rn 3, M Rk-Rn 4, M Rk-Rn 5, and M Rk-Rn 6, with resistance to root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White) Chitwood, and reniform nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis Linford and Oliveria, were jointl...
Estimation of groundwater discharge and associated chemical fluxes into Poyang Lake, China: approaches using stable isotopes (δD and δ18O) and radon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liao, Fu; Wang, Guangcai; Shi, Zheming; Cheng, Guoqiang; Kong, Qingmin; Mu, Wenqing; Guo, Liang

2018-05-01

Poyang Lake is the largest freshwater lake in China and is well known for its ecological and economic importance. Understanding the contribution of groundwater to Poyang Lake is important for the lake's protection and management. In this study, stable isotopes (δD and δ18O), 222Rn measurements, and corresponding models (222Rn and 18O mass balance models) were employed to evaluate the groundwater discharge and associated chemical inputs to Poyang Lake. The results showed that the distribution of δ18O in the lake water reflects the groundwater discharge into the lake. The groundwater discharge estimated using the 222Rn mass balance model was in reasonable agreement with the groundwater discharge derived from the 18O mass balance model. The 222Rn mass balance model showed that the groundwater discharge rate was 24.18 ± 6.85 mm/d with a groundwater discharge flux of (2.24 ± 0.63) × 107 m3/d, which accounts for 6.52-11.14% of river-water input in the Poyang Lake area. The groundwater discharge flux estimated using the 18O mass balance model was 3.17 × 107 m3/d, and the average groundwater discharge rate was 26.62 mm/d. The estimated groundwater discharge was used to estimate the associated chemical fluxes. It was found that groundwater-derived heavy metals such as iron and manganese are potential threats to the lake ecological system because of their large inputs from groundwater discharge.
Estimation of attached and unattached progeny of 222Rn and 220Rn concentration using deposition based progeny sensors.

PubMed

Mehra, Rohit; Bangotra, Pargin; Kaur, Kirandeep; Kanse, Sandeep; Mishra, Rosaline

2015-11-01

The attached and unattached radon and thoron progeny concentrations have been calculated using deposition-based progeny sensors in Mansa, Muktsar, Bathinda and Faridkot districts of Punjab, India. The total (attached + unattached) equilibrium-equivalent (222)Rn concentration (EECRA + U) and total (attached + unattached) equilibrium-equivalent (220)Rn concentration (EECTA + U) were found to vary from 9 to 46 Bqm(-3) and 0.5 to 3.1 Bq m(-3), respectively. The concentrations of attached progeny nuclides for both (222)Rn and (220)Rn have been found to be greater than the unattached progeny nuclides in the dwellings of studied area. An attempt has also been made to assess the effective dose for (222)Rn and (220)Rn in the studied area. The radiation dose originated from (222)Rn and (220)Rn progeny is low and health risk is negligible. © The Author 2015. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Peer Mentoring in Long-Term Care: Rational, Design, and Retention

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hegeman, Carol; Hoskinson, Debi; Munro, Heather; Maiden, Patricia; Pillemer, Karl

2007-01-01

This article describes two successful peer-mentoring programs designed to improve the quality of care in nursing homes and retention rates among direct care staff. The first program, "Growing Strong Roots," examined CNA retention rates and the second program, "Peer Mentoring for Long Term Charge Nurses," examined RN and LPN retention rates. These…
BOREAS TGB-12 Rn-222 Flux Data over the NSA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hall, Forrest G. (Editor); Conrad, Sara K.; Trumbore, Susan; Sundquist, Eric; Winston, Greg

2000-01-01

The BOREAS TGB-12 team made measurements of soil carbon inventories, carbon concentration in soil gases, and rates of soil respiration at several sites to estimate the rates of carbon accumulation and turnover in each of the major vegetation types. Sampling strategies for soils were designed to take advantage of local fire chronosequences, so that the accumulation of carbon in new moss growth could be determined. All the data are used to 1) calculate the inventory of carbon and nitrogen in moss and mineral soil layers at NSA sites, 2) determine the rates of input and turnover (using both accumulation since the last stand-killing fire and radiocarbon data), and 3) link changes in soil respiration rate to shifts in the C-14 content of soil CO2 to determine the average "age" respired CO2. These Rn-222 flux data were collected from 15-Nov-1993 to 16-Aug-1994 over the NSA sites. The data in this data set are stored in tabular ASCII files.
A radon-thoron isotope pair as a reliable earthquake precursor

PubMed Central

Hwa Oh, Yong; Kim, Guebuem

2015-01-01

Abnormal increases in radon (222Rn, half-life = 3.82 days) activity have occasionally been observed in underground environments before major earthquakes. However, 222Rn alone could not be used to forecast earthquakes since it can also be increased due to diffusive inputs over its lifetime. Here, we show that a very short-lived isotope, thoron (220Rn, half-life = 55.6 s; mean life = 80 s), in a cave can record earthquake signals without interference from other environmental effects. We monitored 220Rn together with 222Rn in air of a limestone-cave in Korea for one year. Unusually large 220Rn peaks were observed only in February 2011, preceding the 2011 M9.0 Tohoku-Oki Earthquake, Japan, while large 222Rn peaks were observed in both February 2011 and the summer. Based on our analyses, we suggest that the anomalous peaks of 222Rn and 220Rn activities observed in February were precursory signals related to the Tohoku-Oki Earthquake. Thus, the 220Rn-222Rn combined isotope pair method can present new opportunities for earthquake forecasting if the technique is extensively employed in earthquake monitoring networks around the world. PMID:26269105
Analytical FcRn affinity chromatography for functional characterization of monoclonal antibodies

PubMed Central

Schlothauer, Tilman; Rueger, Petra; Stracke, Jan Olaf; Hertenberger, Hubert; Fingas, Felix; Kling, Lothar; Emrich, Thomas; Drabner, Georg; Seeber, Stefan; Auer, Johannes; Koch, Stefan; Papadimitriou, Apollon

2013-01-01

The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is important for the metabolic fate of IgG antibodies in vivo. Analysis of the interaction between FcRn and IgG in vitro might provide insight into the structural and functional integrity of therapeutic IgG that may affect pharmacokinetics (PK) in vivo. We developed a standardized pH gradient FcRn affinity liquid chromatography method with conditions closely resembling the physiological mechanism of interaction between IgG and FcRn. This method allows the separation of molecular IgG isoforms, degradation products and engineered molecules based on their affinity to FcRn. Human FcRn was immobilized on the column and a linear pH gradient from pH 5.5 to 8.8 was applied. FcRn chromatography was used in comparison to surface plasmon resonance to characterize different monoclonal IgG preparations, e.g., oxidized or aggregated species. Wild-type and engineered IgGs were compared in vitro by FcRn chromatography and in vivo by PK studies in huFcRn transgenic mice. Analytical FcRn chromatography allows differentiation of IgG samples and variants by peak pattern and retention time profile. The method can distinguish: 1) IgGs with different Fabs, 2) oxidized from native IgG, 3) aggregates from monomer and 4) antibodies with mutations in the Fc part from wild-type IgGs. Changes in the FcRn chromatographic behavior of mutant IgGs relative to the wild-type IgG correlate to changes in the PK profile in the FcRn transgenic mice. These results demonstrate that FcRn affinity chromatography is a useful new method for the assessment of IgG integrity. PMID:23765230

Radon background in liquid xenon detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rupp, N.

2018-02-01

The radioactive daughters isotope of 222Rn are one of the highest risk contaminants in liquid xenon detectors aiming for a small signal rate. The noble gas is permanently emanated from the detector surfaces and mixed with the xenon target. Because of its long half-life 222Rn is homogeneously distributed in the target and its subsequent decays can mimic signal events. Since no shielding is possible this background source can be the dominant one in future large scale experiments. This article provides an overview of strategies used to mitigate this source of background by means of material selection and on-line radon removal techniques.
Statin treatment may lower the risk of postradiation epilepsy in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

PubMed

Rong, Xiaoming; Yin, Jing; Wang, Hongxuan; Zhang, Xiaoni; Peng, Ying

2017-12-01

This study aimed to clarify the effect of statins on preventing the risk of postradiation epilepsy. We performed a retrospective analysis of neurological nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients with a history of radiotherapy. Patients with a history of epilepsy before radiation and those who received prophylactically antiepileptic treatment were excluded. The demographic and clinical data of these patients were collected through chart review. We used Kaplan-Meier analysis (log-rank test) to examine the effect of statins on epilepsy-free survival. Cox regression analysis was utilized to identify independent predictive variables. Our study included 532 patients (405 males and 127 females) with a mean follow-up of 28.1 months. During follow-up, 471 (88.5%) patients developed radiation-induced brain necrosis (RN). Within a mean latency of 24.1 months, 88 (16.5%) patients experienced epilepsy, of whom 27 (27 of 88, 30.7%) patients suffered from epilepsy before the diagnosis of RN. Thirty-six (36 of 88, 40.9%) cases of epilepsy occurred after RN onset, and in 22 cases (22 of 88, 25.0%) epilepsy was the first presentation of RN. Three patients suffered from epilepsy but did not have RN. Eighty-eight patients in our cohort were treated with statins because of hyperlipidemia or prevention of cardiocerebrovascular diseases, of whom six (6.8%) developed epilepsy, whereas in those without statin, the epileptic rate was 18.5%. Log-rank test found that there was a significant difference in epilepsy-free survival between patients who used statins and those who did not (p = 0.016). After adjusting for confounding variables, multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that statin use could still significantly reduce the risk of epilepsy after radiation (hazard ratio = 0.36, 95% confidence interval = 0.15-0.82, p = 0.015). However, for the patients who already suffered from RN, statin treatment did not lower the risk of post-RN epilepsy. Early statin use may reduce the risk of postradiotherapy epilepsy in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. © 2017 The Authors. Epilepsia published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International League Against Epilepsy.
Implementation of a written protocol for management of central venous access devices: a theoretical and practical education, including bedside examinations.

PubMed

Ahlin, Catharina; Klang-Söderkvist, Birgitta; Brundin, Seija; Hellström, Birgitta; Pettersson, Karin; Johansson, Eva

2006-01-01

The objectives of this study were to evaluate registered nurses' (RN) compliance with a local clinical central venous access device (CVAD) protocol after completing an educational program and to determine RNs' perception of the program. Seventy-five RNs working in hematology participated in the educational part of the program. Sixty-eight RNs were examined while changing CVAD dressings or placing a Huber needle into a port on actual patients. Sixty percent of the RNs passed the examination and reported that the program increased their knowledge. The results indicated that the educational program could be recommended for use when implementing a new clinical protocol.
The effect of prior healthcare employment on the wages of registered nurses.

PubMed

Yoo, Byung-Kwang; Kim, Minchul; Lin, Tzu-Chun; Sasaki, Tomoko; Ward, Debbie; Spetz, Joanne

2016-08-19

The proportion of registered nurses (RNs) with employment in health-related positions before their initial RN education has increased in the past two decades. Previous research found that prior health-related employment is positively associated with RN workforce supply, potentially due to the wage differences based on different career paths. This study's objective is to test the hypotheses that prior health-related employment is associated with differences in starting wages and with different rates of wage growth for experience as an RN. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using the 2008 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses (NSSRN) linked with county-level variables from the Area Health Resource File. We estimated a Heckman model where the second-stage equation's outcome variable was the logarithm of the RN hourly wage, accounting for the self-selection of working or not working as an RN (i.e., the first-stage equation's outcome variable). Key covariates included interaction terms between years of experience, experience squared, and six categories of prior health-related employment (manager, LPN/LVN, allied health, nursing aide, clerk, and all other healthcare positions). Additional covariates included demographics, weekly working hours, marital status, highest nursing degree, and county-level variables (e.g., unemployment rate). We estimated the marginal effect of experience on wage for each type of prior health-related employment, conducting separate analyses for RNs whose initial education was a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) (unweighted N = 10,345/weighted N = 945,429), RNs whose initial education was an Associate degree (unweighted N = 13,791/weighted N = 1,296,809), and total population combining the former groups (unweighted N = 24,136/weighted N = 2,242,238). Prior health-related employment was associated with higher wages, with the strongest wage differences among BSN-educated RNs. Among BSN-educated RNs, previous employment as a health care manager, LPN/LVN, or nursing aide produced statistically higher starting wages ($1.72-$3.86 per hour; $3400-$7700 per year; p = 0.006-0.08). However, experience-based wage growth was lower for BSN-educated RNs previously employed as allied health workers, LPN/LVNs, or nursing aides. Among Associate degree-educated RNs, wage difference was not observed except for higher initial wage for RNs with previous employment as LPN/LVNs. Prior employment in health-related positions was associated with both starting salary and experience-based wage growth among BSN-educated RNs. The higher wage return for those with a BSN may motivate non-RN healthcare workers to seek a BSN in their transition to RN jobs, which could help advancement toward the 80 % BSN workforce recommended by the U.S. Institute of Medicine.
Controls on radon emission from granite as evidenced by compression testing to failure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koike, Katsuaki; Yoshinaga, Tohru; Suetsugu, Kenta; Kashiwaya, Koki; Asaue, Hisafumi

2015-10-01

A set of uniaxial compression tests of granite specimens taken from five localities across Japan was conducted to identify the factors controlling the quantity of radon (Rn) emission (sum of 222Rn and 220Rn) during compression and failure. An α-scintillation detector and a gas flow unit were installed with a testing machine to enable continuous measurement of Rn emissions. Common to all specimens, Rn emissions remained at or slightly declined from the background level after the start of loading; this is similar to the natural phenomenon of decline in groundwater-dissolved Rn before an earthquake. Closure of original microcracks is the most likely cause of the initial Rn decline. Then, Rn emissions begin to increase at 46-57 per cent stress level to the uniaxial compressive strength, and continue to increase even after the failure of specimen. This commencement stress level is close to the general stress level at outbreak of acoustic emissions caused by the development and connection of microcracks. The Rn increase after failure is similar to a phenomenon observed in aftershocks, which may originate from the enhancement of Rn emanations from grains due to the large increase in total surface area and stress release. In addition to the initial radioelement content in rock, the failure pattern (conjugate shear versus longitudinal tensile type), compressive strength, and grain size are possible control factors of the maximum quantity of Rn emissions induced by failure. This maximum may also be affected by the development velocity of the emanation area, which is related to the Rn emanation fraction, associated with the fragmentation. In addition to the magnitude of an earthquake and its hypocentre distance to Rn detectors, the magnitude of increase in Rn concentration in soil gas and groundwater before, during, and after an earthquake in crystalline rocks depends on the intrinsic radioelement content, the mineral texture, and the mechanical properties of rocks. Rock fracturing and failure do not necessarily induce increase in Rn emission due to these rock properties, which can be used to understand the sensitivity of Rn concentration in soil gas or groundwater in connection with an earthquake.
National survey on the natural radioactivity and 222Rn exhalation rate of building materials in The Netherlands.

PubMed

de Jong, P; van Dijk, W; van der Graaf, E R; de Groot, T J H

2006-09-01

The present study reports on results of a nation-wide survey on the natural radioactivity concentrations and Rn exhalation rates of the prevailing building materials in the Netherlands. In total 100 samples were taken and analyzed for the activity concentrations of Ra, Ra, Th, and K and for their Rn exhalation rate. The sampled materials consisted of gypsum products, aerated concrete, sand-lime and clay bricks, mortars and concrete, representing about 95% of the stony building materials used in the construction of Dutch homes. The laboratory analyses were performed according to two well-documented standard procedures, the interlaboratory reproducibility of which is found to be within 5% on average. The highest radionuclide concentrations were found in a porous inner wall brick to which fly ash was added. The second highest were clay bricks with average Ra and Ra levels around 40 Bq kg. Concrete and mortar show the highest exhalation rates with a fairly broad range of 1 to 13 microBq (kg s). Low natural radioactivity levels are associated with either natural gypsum (products) or gypsum from flue gas desulphurization units, and low exhalation rates with clay bricks. To evaluate the radiological impact the radioactivity concentrations in each sample were combined into a so-called dose factor, representing the absorbed dose rate in a room with a floor, walls and ceiling of 20 cm of the material in question. For that purpose, calculations with the computer codes MCNP, Marmer and MicroShield on the specific absorbed dose rates were incorporated in the paper. The results of these codes corresponded within 6% and average values were calculated at 0.90, 1.10, and 0.080 nGy h per Bq kg for the U series, the Th series, and K, respectively. Model calculations on the external dose rate, based on the incidence of the various building materials in 1,336 living rooms, are in accordance with measured data.
BOREAS TGB-12 Rn-222 Activity Data over the NSA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trumbore, Susan; Hall, Forrest G. (Editor); Conrad, Sara K. (Editor); Sundquist, Eric; Winston, Greg

2000-01-01

The BOREAS TGB-12 team made measurements of soil carbon inventories, carbon concentration in soil gases, and rates of soil respiration at several sites to estimate the rates of carbon accumulation and turnover in each of the major vegetation types. Sampling strategies for soils were designed to take advantage of local fire chronosequences, so that the accumulation of carbon in regrowing mosses could be determined. All the data are used to: (1) calculate the inventory of carbon and nitrogen in moss and mineral soil layers at NSA sites, (2) determine the rates of input and turnover (using both accumulation since the last stand-killing fire and radiocarbon data), and (3) link changes in soil respiration rate to shifts in the C-14 content of soil CO2 to determine the average "age" respired CO2 . These Rn-222 activity data were collected from 15-Nov-1993 to 16-Aug-1994 over the NSA sites. They are useful for determining the rate of gas exchange between soil and the overlying atmosphere. The data in this data set are stored in tabular ASCII files.
A direct correlation among indoor Rn, soil gas Rn and geology in the Reading Prong near Boyertown, Pennsylvania

USGS Publications Warehouse

Reimer, G.M.; Gundersen, L.C.S.

1989-01-01

We feel that this study suggests a relationship among geology, soil gas Rn and the potential for indoor Rn accumulation in this portion of the Reading Prong. There are deviations from a perfect correlation but these are related to inhomogeneities in the geologic environment and perhaps variations in construction techniques of homes in the area. This study also demonstrates that several analyses in a small area may be necessary to adequately determine the Rn distribution for a particular geologic unit. That scale would be determined by the complexity of the local geology. Where no discrete source of elevated Rn supply is found for dwellings having a significant Rn accumulation, the implication is that overall gross permeability may be sufficient to supply Rn from a larger volume of soil and rock.
Trends in Characteristics and Country of Origin Among Foreign-Trained Nurses in the United States, 1990 and 2000

PubMed Central

Polsky, Daniel; Ross, Sara J.; Brush, Barbara L.; Sochalski, Julie

2007-01-01

Objectives. We describe long-term trends in the characteristics of foreign-trained new entrants to the registered nurse (RN) workforce in the United States. Methods. Using the 1990 and 2000 US Census 5% Public Use Microdata Sample files, we compared trends in characteristics of US- and foreign-trained new entrants to the RN labor force (n=40827) and identified trends in the country of origin of the foreign-trained new entrants. Results. Foreign-trained RNs grew as a percentage of new entrants to the RN workforce, from 8.8% in 1990 to 15.2% in 2000. Compared with US-trained RNs, foreign-trained RNs were 3 times as likely to work in nursing homes and were more likely to have earned a bachelor’s degree. In 2000, 21% of foreign-trained RNs originated from low-income countries, a doubling of the rate since 1990. Conclusions. Foreign-trained RNs now account for a substantial and growing proportion of the US RN workforce. Our findings suggest foreign-trained RNs entering the United States are not of lower quality than US-trained RNs. However, growth in the proportion of RNs from low-income countries may have negative consequences in those countries. PMID:17395844
The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) binds independently to both sites of the IgG homodimer with identical affinity.

PubMed

Abdiche, Yasmina Noubia; Yeung, Yik Andy; Chaparro-Riggers, Javier; Barman, Ishita; Strop, Pavel; Chin, Sherman Michael; Pham, Amber; Bolton, Gary; McDonough, Dan; Lindquist, Kevin; Pons, Jaume; Rajpal, Arvind

2015-01-01

The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is expressed by cells of epithelial, endothelial and myeloid lineages and performs multiple roles in adaptive immunity. Characterizing the FcRn/IgG interaction is fundamental to designing therapeutic antibodies because IgGs with moderately increased binding affinities for FcRn exhibit superior serum half-lives and efficacy. It has been hypothesized that 2 FcRn molecules bind an IgG homodimer with disparate affinities, yet their affinity constants are inconsistent across the literature. Using surface plasmon resonance biosensor assays that eliminated confounding experimental artifacts, we present data supporting an alternate hypothesis: 2 FcRn molecules saturate an IgG homodimer with identical affinities at independent sites, consistent with the symmetrical arrangement of the FcRn/Fc complex observed in the crystal structure published by Burmeister et al. in 1994. We find that human FcRn binds human IgG1 with an equilibrium dissociation constant (KD) of 760 ± 60 nM (N = 14) at 25°C and pH 5.8, and shows less than 25% variation across the other human subtypes. Human IgG1 binds cynomolgus monkey FcRn with a 2-fold higher affinity than human FcRn, and binds both mouse and rat FcRn with a 10-fold higher affinity than human FcRn. FcRn/IgG interactions from multiple species show less than a 2-fold weaker affinity at 37°C than at 25°C and appear independent of an IgG's variable region. Our in vivo data in mouse and rat models demonstrate that both affinity and avidity influence an IgG's serum half-life, which should be considered when choosing animals, especially transgenic systems, as surrogates.
Pseudocapsule of renal cell carcinoma associated with Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusion: a clue for tumor enucleation?

PubMed

Cheng, Xiangming; He, Jian; Gan, Weidong; Fan, Xiangshan; Yang, Jun; Zhu, Bin; Guo, Hongqian

2015-01-01

To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of tumor enucleation (TE) for patients with small renal cell carcinoma (RCC) associated with Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusion (Xp11.2 RCC) by analyzing the pseudocapsule characteristics of Xp11.2 RCCs comparing with that of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). From June 2007 to February 2014, 22 patients with Xp11.2 RCC who were diagnosed by fluorescence in-situ hybridization polyclonal (FISH) assay and 32 patients with ccRCC treated in our institution were comparatively studied. 12 patients with ccRCC underwent radical nephrectomy (RN) and 20 received TE. Among 22 patients with Xp11.2 RCC, 19 were treated by RN and 3 by TE (1 by radiofrequency ablation assisted TE). Pseudocapsule and other clinicopathological characteristics of the two subtypes of RCC were compared. Survival of patients treated with different surgical methods was evaluated and compared. Pseudocapsule incidence of Xp11.2 RCC (14/22, 63.6%) was lower than that of ccRCC (32/32, 100%, P<0.001). However, pseudocapsule integrity rate of Xp11.2 RCC (10/14, 71.4%) was comparable with that of ccRCC (23/32, 71.9%, P=1.000). The 5-year overall survival of patients with ccRCC treated with RN and TE was 86% and 81%, respectively (P=0.845). Three patients with small Xp11.2 RCC performed well after TE. Over half Xp11.2 RCC had pseudocapsules, whose integrity rate was comparable to that of ccRCC. Treatment effectives of TE and RN were comparable in ccRCC. A preliminary attempt to treat small Xp11.2 RCC with intact pseudocapsule by using TE produced a favorable treatment outcome.
Soil gas 222Rn and volcanic activity at El Hierro (Canary Islands) before and after the 2011 submarine eruption

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Padilla, G.; Hernández, P. A.; Padrón, E.; Barrancos, J.; Melián, G.; Dionis, S.; Rodríguez, F.; Nolasco, D.; Calvo, D.; Hernández, I.; Pereza, M. D.; Pérez, N. M.

2012-04-01

El Hierro (278 km2) is the southwesternmost island of the Canarian archipelago. From June 19, 2011 to January 2012, more than 11,950 seismic events have been detected by the seismic network of IGN. On 10 October 2011 the earthquake swarm changed its behaviour and produced a harmonic tremor due to magma movement, indicating that a submarine eruption located at 2 km south of La Restinga had started which is still in progress. Since 2003, the ITER Environmental Research Division now integrated in the Instituto Volcanológico de Canarias, INVOLCAN, has regularly performed soil gas surveys at El Hierro as a geochemical tool for volcanic surveillance. Among the investigated gases, soil gas radon (222Rn) and thoron (220Rn) have played a special attention. Both gases are characterized to ascend towards the surface mainly through cracks or faults via diffusion or advection, mechanisms dependent of both soil porosity and permeability, which in turn vary as a function of the stress/strain changes at depth. Years before the starts of the volcanic-seismic crisis on July 17, 2011, a volcanic multidisciplinary surveillance program was implemented at El Hierro including discrete and continuous measurements of 222Rn and 220Rn. Two soil gas 222Rn surveys had been carried out at El Hierro in 2003 and 2011, and four continuous geochemical monitoring stations for 222Rn and 220Rn measurements had been installed (HIE02, HIE03, HIE04 and HIE08). Soil gas 222Rn surveys were carried out at the surface environment of El Hierro after selecting 600 sampling observation sites (about 40 cm depth). Geochemical stations measure 222Rn and 220Rn activities by pumping the gas from a PVC pipe inserted 1m in the ground and thermally isolated. The results of the 2003 and 2011 soil gas 222Rn surveys show clearly a relatively higher observed 222Rn activities in the surface environment on 2011 than those observed on 2003 when no anomalous seismicity were taking place beneath El Hierro. The observed anomalous soil gas 222Rn activities were mainly detected along the major volcano-structural features of the island. The time series recorded at HIE02 and HIE03 showed clear 222Rn precursory signatures of the volcanic eruption. Observed 222Rn activity ranged from negligible values to 16.5 and 1.6 kBqm-3 at HIE02 and HIE03 stations, respectively. Individual 222Rn peaks registered in both stations had been also very useful to forecast later pulses on the volcanic activity. In addition, 222Rn/220Rn ratios in both stations showed a strong increase prior the eruption.
Energy-dependent etching-related impacts on CR-39 alpha detection efficiency for the Rn-222 and Rn-220 decay chains

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tan, Y.; Yuan, H.; Kearfott, K. J.

2018-04-01

CR-39 detectors are widely used to measure environmental levels of Rn-222, Rn-220 and their progeny. Prior research reported the CR-39 detection efficiency for alpha particles from Rn-222, Rn-220 and their progeny under a variety of etching conditions. This paper provides an explanation for interesting observations included in that work, namely that the critical incidence angle decreases with the increasing particle energy and the detection efficiency for 8.78 MeV alpha particles is zero. This paper explains these phenomena from a consideration of the interaction of alpha particles with the CR-39 detectors and the physics of etching dynamics. The proposed theory provides a rationale for an approach to optimizing the etching conditions of CR-39 detector for measuring Rn-222, Rn-220 and their progenies.
Preparing nursing students for enhanced roles in primary care: The current state of prelicensure and RN-to-BSN education.

PubMed

Wojnar, Danuta M; Whelan, Ellen Marie

With the current emphasis on including registered nurses (RNs) on the primary care teams, it is essential that nursing programs prepare students for employment in these settings. This study explored the current state of prelicensure and RN-to-Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) online education regarding the implementation of primary care content in the curricula. A sample of 1,409 schools and/or colleges from across the United States was invited to participate in an online survey. About 529 surveys were returned for an overall response rate of 37.5%. Summative content analysis was used to analyze survey data. Although most respondents have implemented some primary care content, some found it challenging and others have demurred from incorporating primary care content altogether. Nursing leaders and faculty in academia must collaborate with clinical partners to design and expand didactic and clinical learning experiences that emphasize primary care content in the prelicensure and RN-to-BSN education. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Comparability of nurse staffing measures in examining the relationship between RN staffing and unit-acquired pressure ulcers: a unit-level descriptive, correlational study.

PubMed

Choi, JiSun; Staggs, Vincent S

2014-10-01

Various staffing measures have been used in examining the relationship between nurse staffing and patient outcomes. Little research has been conducted to compare these measures based on their explanatory power as predictors of nursing-sensitive outcomes. In this study, both administrative and nurse-reported measures were examined. Administrative measures included registered nurse (RN) skill mix and three versions of nursing hours per patient day (HPPD); nurse-reported measures included RN-reported number of assigned patients and RN-perceived staffing adequacy. To examine correlations among six nurse staffing measures and to compare their explanatory power in relation to unit-acquired pressure ulcers (UAPUs). Descriptive, correlational study. 2397 nursing units in 409 U.S. acute care hospitals. Random-intercept logistic regression analyses were performed using 2011 data from a national database. Relationships between nurse staffing measures and UAPU occurrences were examined in eight models, each with one or more staffing measures as predictors. Characteristics of nursing units (RN workgroup education level and RN workgroup unit tenure) and hospitals (size, teaching status, and Magnet status) were included as control variables. Two versions of HPPD (total nursing HPPD and RN HPPD) and RN skill mix were significantly correlated with RN-reported number of assigned patients (r range=-0.87 to -0.75). These staffing measures had weaker correlations with RN-perceived staffing adequacy (r range=0.16 to 0.23). Of the six staffing variables, only RN-perceived staffing adequacy and RN skill mix were significantly associated with UAPU odds, the former being the better predictor. Although RN-perceived staffing adequacy was not highly correlated with administrative measures of HPPD and RN skill mix, it was the strongest predictor of UAPU occurrences. RN-perceived staffing adequacy can serve as a more appropriate measure of staffing for nursing-sensitive outcomes research than administrative measures, as it reflects relevant aspects of staffing and involves an implicit adjustment for patient acuity. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Red nucleus and rubrospinal tract disorganization in the absence of Pou4f1

PubMed Central

Martinez-Lopez, Jesus E.; Moreno-Bravo, Juan A.; Madrigal, M. Pilar; Martinez, Salvador; Puelles, Eduardo

2015-01-01

The red nucleus (RN) is a neuronal population that plays an important role in forelimb motor control and locomotion. Histologically it is subdivided into two subpopulations, the parvocellular RN (pRN) located in the diencephalon and the magnocellular RN (mRN) in the mesencephalon. The RN integrates signals from motor cortex and cerebellum and projects to spinal cord interneurons and motor neurons through the rubrospinal tract (RST). Pou4f1 is a transcription factor highly expressed in this nucleus that has been related to its specification. Here we profoundly analyzed consequences of Pou4f1 loss-of-function in development, maturation and axonal projection of the RN. Surprisingly, RN neurons are specified and maintained in the mutant, no cell death was detected. Nevertheless, the nucleus appeared disorganized with a strong delay in radial migration and with a wider neuronal distribution; the neurons did not form a compacted population as they do in controls, Robo1 and Slit2 were miss-expressed. Cplx1 and Npas1, expressed in the RN, are transcription factors involved in neurotransmitter release, neuronal maturation and motor function processes among others. In our mutant mice, both transcription factors are lost, suggesting an abnormal maturation of the RN. The resulting altered nucleus occupied a wider territory. Finally, we examined RST development and found that the RN neurons were able to project to the spinal cord but their axons appeared defasciculated. These data suggest that Pou4f1 is necessary for the maturation of RN neurons but not for their specification and maintenance. PMID:25698939
Use of 222Rn for estimation of greenhouse gases emissions at Russian territory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berezina, E. V.; Elansky, N. F.

2009-04-01

It is well known that 222Rn is widely used as a tracer for studying different atmospheric processes including estimations of greenhouse gases emissions. Calculation of 222Rn fluxes from the soil into the atmosphere allows quantitative estimation of greenhouse gases emissions having the soil origin or sources of which are located near the surface. For accurate estimation of 222Rn fluxes detailed investigations of spatial and temporal variations of its concentrations are necessary. 222Rn concentrations data in the atmospheric surface layer over continental Russia from Moscow to Vladivostok obtained during the six TROICA (Transcontinental Observations Into the Chemistry of the Atmosphere) expeditions of the mobile laboratory along the Trans-Siberian railroad are analyzed. Spatial distribution, diurnal and seasonal variations of surface 222Rn concentrations along the Trans-Siberian railroad are investigated. According to the obtained data surface 222Rn concentration values above continental Russia vary from 0.5 to 75 Bq/m3 depending on meteorological conditions and geological features of the territory with the average value being 8.42 ± 0.10 Bq/m3. The average 222Rn concentration is maximum in the autumn expedition and minimum in the spring one. The factors mostly influencing 222Rn concentration variations are studied: surface temperature inversions, geological features of the territory, precipitations. 222Rn accumulation features in the atmospheric surface layer during night temperature inversions are analyzed. It was noted that during night temperature inversions the surface 222Rn concentration is 7 - 8 times more than the one during the nights without temperature inversions. Since atmospheric stratification determines accumulation and diurnal variations of many atmospheric pollutants as well as greenhouse gases its features are analyzed in detail. Surface temperature inversions were mainly observed from 18:00-19:00 to 06:00-07:00 in the warm season and from 16:00 to 08:00-09:00 in the cold season. During this time 222Rn accumulated in the surface atmospheric layer with its maximum concentration values being observed near sunrise. 222Rn fluxes from the soil into the atmosphere from Moscow to Vladivostok during surface temperature inversions are estimated taking into account geological factors. 222Rn accumulation layer depth in the lower atmosphere is calculated. Using the data of CO2, CH4 and 222Rn concentrations obtained in the expeditions we analyzed correlations between the greenhouse gases and 222Rn. There are significant positive correlations between CO2, CH4 and 222Rn concentrations during night temperature inversions especially in summer and in autumn. It indicates similar accumulation both 222Rn and the greenhouse gases in the surface layer during atmospheric stability. On the basis of the regressions between 222Rn, CO2 and CH4 concentrations the greenhouse gases night time fluxes in the surface layer from Moscow to Vladivostok are estimated using the calculated values of 222Rn fluxes. Acknowledgments. The work was supported by International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) under contract No. 2770 and by Russian Basic Research Foundation (project No. 08-05-13589, 07-05-12063 and 07-05-00428). The authors thank I. B. Belikov for preparation and carrying out the TROICA experiments.
The organizational impact of a new graduate pediatric nurse mentoring program.

PubMed

Halfer, Diana; Graf, Elaine; Sullivan, Christine

2008-01-01

Successful mentoring programs for new graduate nurses are designed to provide professional supports to ease the transition of these newcomers from student to practicing nurse. In the financially constrained health care environment, a resource-intensive program can be sustained only by leaders who see quantitative evidence of organizational impact over time. A descriptive study was undertaken at a pediatric academic medical center to compare the job satisfaction and retention rates of two cohorts of new graduate nurses: one before and one after the implementation of a Pediatric RN Internship Program. In this study overall job satisfaction was significantly higher in the post-internship group as compared to the pre-internship group. Improved job satisfaction was also reflected in a lower turnover rate (12% vs. 20% in the pre-internship group) that was sustained during the 2-year post-intervention study period. By lowering turnover rates, organizations avoid costs associated with recruitment, orientation, and temporary labor coverage for vacant RN positions.
Characterization of the two intra-individual sequence variants in the 18S rRNA gene in the plant parasitic nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis.

PubMed

Nyaku, Seloame T; Sripathi, Venkateswara R; Kantety, Ramesh V; Gu, Yong Q; Lawrence, Kathy; Sharma, Govind C

2013-01-01

The 18S rRNA gene is fundamental to cellular and organismal protein synthesis and because of its stable persistence through generations it is also used in phylogenetic analysis among taxa. Sequence variation in this gene within a single species is rare, but it has been observed in few metazoan organisms. More frequently it has mostly been reported in the non-transcribed spacer region. Here, we have identified two sequence variants within the near full coding region of 18S rRNA gene from a single reniform nematode (RN) Rotylenchulus reniformis labeled as reniform nematode variant 1 (RN_VAR1) and variant 2 (RN_VAR2). All sequences from three of the four isolates had both RN variants in their sequences; however, isolate 13B had only RN variant 2 sequence. Specific variable base sites (96 or 5.5%) were found within the 18S rRNA gene that can clearly distinguish the two 18S rDNA variants of RN, in 11 (25.0%) and 33 (75.0%) of the 44 RN clones, for RN_VAR1 and RN_VAR2, respectively. Neighbor-joining trees show that the RN_VAR1 is very similar to the previously existing R. reniformis sequence in GenBank, while the RN_VAR2 sequence is more divergent. This is the first report of the identification of two major variants of the 18S rRNA gene in the same single RN, and documents the specific base variation between the two variants, and hypothesizes on simultaneous co-existence of these two variants for this gene.
Characterization of the Two Intra-Individual Sequence Variants in the 18S rRNA Gene in the Plant Parasitic Nematode, Rotylenchulus reniformis

PubMed Central

Nyaku, Seloame T.; Sripathi, Venkateswara R.; Kantety, Ramesh V.; Gu, Yong Q.; Lawrence, Kathy; Sharma, Govind C.

2013-01-01

The 18S rRNA gene is fundamental to cellular and organismal protein synthesis and because of its stable persistence through generations it is also used in phylogenetic analysis among taxa. Sequence variation in this gene within a single species is rare, but it has been observed in few metazoan organisms. More frequently it has mostly been reported in the non-transcribed spacer region. Here, we have identified two sequence variants within the near full coding region of 18S rRNA gene from a single reniform nematode (RN) Rotylenchulus reniformis labeled as reniform nematode variant 1 (RN_VAR1) and variant 2 (RN_VAR2). All sequences from three of the four isolates had both RN variants in their sequences; however, isolate 13B had only RN variant 2 sequence. Specific variable base sites (96 or 5.5%) were found within the 18S rRNA gene that can clearly distinguish the two 18S rDNA variants of RN, in 11 (25.0%) and 33 (75.0%) of the 44 RN clones, for RN_VAR1 and RN_VAR2, respectively. Neighbor-joining trees show that the RN_VAR1 is very similar to the previously existing R. reniformis sequence in GenBank, while the RN_VAR2 sequence is more divergent. This is the first report of the identification of two major variants of the 18S rRNA gene in the same single RN, and documents the specific base variation between the two variants, and hypothesizes on simultaneous co-existence of these two variants for this gene. PMID:23593343

Management of Cerebral Radiation Necrosis: A Retrospective Study of 12 Patients.

PubMed

Liao, Chenlong; Visocchi, Massimiliano; Zhang, Wenchuan; Yang, Min; Zhong, Wenxiang; Liu, Pengfei

2017-01-01

Cerebral radiation necrosis (RN) is a severe complication of radiotherapy for cerebral pathologies. This study discusses the radiographic and pathological features of 12 patients with RN and investigates the management strategy. Eleven patients with brain tumors, and one with cerebral cavernous angioma, treated by surgical resection or Gamma Knife alone before radiotherapy developed RN during follow-up. Surgical resection for the cerebral RN was performed in nine patients, and the other three patients received medical treatment. The clinical features, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), surgical findings, and pathological sections are reviewed. The diagnosis of RN was confirmed by histological study in all the patients; those with surgical and medical treatment recovered. As a major complication of radiotherapy, from the clinical and neuroradiological points of view, RN may simulate tumor recurrence. Due to the increasing number of patients with RN who will need to be treated in future years, the definite diagnosis and appropriate treatment of RN remain critical.
A Two-pronged Binding Mechanism of IgG to the Neonatal Fc Receptor Controls Complex Stability and IgG Serum Half-life*

PubMed Central

Schoch, Angela; Larraillet, Vincent; Hilger, Maximiliane; Schlothauer, Tilman; Emrich, Thomas

2017-01-01

The success of recombinant monoclonal immunoglobulins (IgG) is rooted in their ability to target distinct antigens with high affinity combined with an extraordinarily long serum half-life, typically around 3 weeks. The pharmacokinetics of IgGs is intimately linked to the recycling mechanism of the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn). For long serum half-life of therapeutic IgGs, the highly pH-dependent interaction with FcRn needs to be balanced to allow efficient FcRn binding and release at slightly acidic pH and physiological pH, respectively. Some IgGs, like the antibody briakinumab has an unusually short half-life of ∼8 days. Here we dissect the molecular origins of excessive FcRn binding in therapeutic IgGs using a combination of hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry and FcRn affinity chromatography. We provide experimental evidence for a two-pronged IgG-FcRn binding mechanism involving direct FcRn interactions with both the Fc region and the Fab regions of briakinumab, and correlate the occurrence of excessive FcRn binding to an unusually strong Fab-FcRn interaction. PMID:28062799
The interplay of non-specific binding, target-mediated clearance and FcRn interactions on the pharmacokinetics of humanized antibodies

PubMed Central

Datta-Mannan, Amita; Lu, Jirong; Witcher, Derrick R; Leung, Donmienne; Tang, Ying; Wroblewski, Victor J

2015-01-01

The application of protein engineering technologies toward successfully improving antibody pharmacokinetics has been challenging due to the multiplicity of biochemical factors that influence monoclonal antibody (mAb) disposition in vivo. Physiological factors including interactions with the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) and specific antigen binding properties of mAbs, along with biophysical properties of the mAbs themselves play a critical role. It has become evident that applying an integrated approach to understand the relative contribution of these factors is critical to rationally guide and apply engineering strategies to optimize mAb pharmacokinetics. The study presented here evaluated the influence of unintended non-specific interactions on the disposition of mAbs whose clearance rates are governed predominantly by either non-specific (FcRn) or target-mediated processes. The pharmacokinetics of 8 mAbs representing a diverse range of these properties was evaluated in cynomolgus monkeys. Results revealed complementarity-determining region (CDR) charge patch engineering to decrease charge-related non-specific binding can have a significant impact on improving the clearance. In contrast, the influence of enhanced in vitro FcRn binding was mixed, and related to both the strength of charge interaction and the general mechanism predominant in governing the clearance of the particular mAb. Overall, improved pharmacokinetics through enhanced FcRn interactions were apparent for a CDR charge-patch normalized mAb which was affected by non-specific clearance. The findings in this report are an important demonstration that mAb pharmacokinetics requires optimization on a case-by-case basis to improve the design of molecules with increased therapeutic application. PMID:26337808
Role of aquifer heterogeneity in fresh groundwater discharge and seawater recycling: An example from the Carmel coast, Israel

USGS Publications Warehouse

Weinstein, Y.; Burnett, W.C.; Swarzenski, P.W.; Shalem, Y.; Yechieli, Y.; Herut, B.

2007-01-01

A case study is shown in which the pattern of submarine groundwater discharge and of seawater recycling is controlled by local hydrogeological variability. The coastal aquifer in Dor Bay is composed of two units: a partly confined calcaranitic sandstone (Kurkar) and an overlying loose sand. Groundwater in the Kurkar has elevated activities of 222Rn (∼390 dpm/L) and relatively low 224Ra/223Ra activity ratios (3–4), while the sand groundwater is significantly less radiogenic (6–90 dpm/L) and shows higher 224Ra/223Ra ratios. Groundwater discharging from sand-covered areas of the bay has salinities of 16–31 and an average 222Rn activity of 168 dpm/L, which lies on a mixing line between Rn-rich Kurkar fresh water and Rn-poor seawater. Another key observation is that seawater infiltrates to some extent into onshore sand groundwater, while the fresh water within the submarine Kurkar can be traced up to 40 m offshore. This implies that while fresh water mainly discharges from the Kurkar unit, seawater recycling is limited to the loose sand, and that the discharge from sand-covered areas is a mixture of Kurkar water with recycled seawater. Advection rates from the bay floor were calculated from Rn time series and found to vary between 0 and 36 cm/d, correlating negatively with bay water depth. The average flux was 8.1 cm/d, and it did not seem to change much during March, May, and July 2006. The average amount of fresh water discharging to the bay was 5.0 m3/d per meter of shoreline. Radon activity in the sand groundwater also fluctuates due to influx of Kurkar-type groundwater.
Statistical analysis of the radon-222 potential of rocks in Virginia, U.S.A.

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brown, C. Erwin; Mose, D.G.; Mushrush, G.W.; Chrosniak, C.E.

1992-01-01

More than 3,200 indoor radon-222 (222Rn) measurements were made seasonally in an area of about 1,000 square kilometers of the Coastal Plain and Piedmont physiographic provinces in Virginia, U.S.A. Results of these measurements indicate that some geological units are associated, on the average, with twice as much indoor222Rn as other geological units, and that indoor222Rn varies seasonally. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to test whether indoor222Rn concentrations for data gathered over the winter and summer seasons differ significantly by rock unit. The tests concluded that indoor222Rn concentrations for different rock units were not equal at the 5-percent significance level. The rocks associated with the highest median indoor222Rn concentration are specific rocks in the Mesozoic Culpeper basin, including shale and siltstone units with Jurassic diabase intrusives, and mica schists in the Piedmont physiographic province. The pre-Triassic Peters Creek Schist has the highest ranking in terms of indoor222Rn concentration. The rocks associated with the lowest indoor222Rn concentrations include coastal plain sediments, the Occoquan Granite, Falls Church Tonalite, Piney Branch Mafic and Ultramafic complex, and unnamed mafic and ultramafic inclusions, respectively. The rocks have been ranked according to observed222Rn concentration by transforming the average rank of indoor222Rn concentrations to z scores. ?? 1992 Springer-Verlag New York Inc.
Use of Radon for Evaluation of Atmospheric Transport Models: Sensitivity to Emissions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gupta, Mohan L.; Douglass, Anne R.; Kawa, S. Randolph; Pawson, Steven

2004-01-01

This paper presents comparative analyses of atmospheric radon (Rn) distributions simulated using different emission scenarios and the observations. Results indicate that the model generally reproduces observed distributions of Rn but there are some biases in the model related to differences in large-scale and convective transport. Simulations presented here use an off-line three-dimensional chemical transport model driven by assimilated winds and two scenarios of Rn fluxes (atom/cm s) from ice-free land surfaces: (A) globally uniform flux of 1.0, and (B) uniform flux of 1.0 between 60 deg. S and 30 deg. N followed by a sharp linear decrease to 0.2 at 70 deg. N. We considered an additional scenario (C) where Rn emissions for case A were uniformly reduced by 28%. Results show that case A overpredicts observed Rn distributions in both hemispheres. Simulated northern hemispheric (NH) Rn distributions from cases B and C compare better with the observations, but are not discernible from each other. In the southern hemisphere, surface Rn distributions from case C compare better with the observations. We performed a synoptic scale source-receptor analysis for surface Rn to locate regions with ratios B/A and B/C less than 0.5. Considering an uncertainty in regional Rn emissions of a factor of two, our analysis indicates that additional measurements of surface Rn particularly during April-October and north of 50 deg. N over the Pacific as well as Atlantic regions would make it possible to determine if the proposed latitude gradient in Rn emissions is superior to a uniform flux scenario.
Po-210 and Pb-210 as atmospheric tracers and global atmospheric Pb-210 fallout: a review.

PubMed

Baskaran, M

2011-05-01

Over the past ∼ 5 decades, the distribution of (222)Rn and its progenies (mainly (210)Pb, (210)Bi and (210)Po) have provided a wealth of information as tracers to quantify several atmospheric processes that include: i) source tracking and transport time scales of air masses; ii) the stability and vertical movement of air masses iii) removal rate constants and residence times of aerosols; iv) chemical behavior of analog species; and v) washout ratios and deposition velocities of aerosols. Most of these applications require that the sources and sink terms of these nuclides are well characterized. Utility of (210)Pb, (210)Bi and (210)Po as atmospheric tracers requires that data on the (222)Rn emanation rates is well documented. Due to low concentrations of (226)Ra in surface waters, the (222)Rn emanation rates from the continent is about two orders of magnitude higher than that of the ocean. This has led to distinctly higher (210)Pb concentrations in continental air masses compared to oceanic air masses. The highly varying concentrations of (210)Pb in air as well the depositional fluxes have yielded insight on the sources and transit times of aerosols. In an ideal enclosed air mass (closed system with respect to these nuclides), the residence times of aerosols obtained from the activity ratios of (210)Pb/(222)Rn, (210)Bi/(210)Pb, and (210)Po/(210)Pb are expected to agree with each other, but a large number of studies have indicated discordance between the residence times obtained from these three pairs. Recent results from the distribution of these nuclides in size-fractionated aerosols appear to yield consistent residence time in smaller-size aerosols, possibly suggesting that larger size aerosols are derived from resuspended dust. The residence times calculated from the (210)Pb/(222)Rn, (210)Bi/(210)Pb, and (210)Po/(210)Pb activity ratios published from 1970's are compared to those data obtained in size-fractionated aerosols in this decade and possible reasons for the discordance is discussed with some key recommendations for future studies. The existing global atmospheric inventory data of (210)Pb is re-evaluated and a 'global curve' for the depositional fluxes of (210)Pb is established. A current global budget for atmospheric (210)Po and (210)Pb is also established. The relative importance of dry fallout of (210)Po and (210)Pb at different latitudes is evaluated. The global values for the deposition velocities of aerosols using (210)Po and (210)Pb are synthesized. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Fluid rare earth element anlayses from wells RN-12 and RN-19, Reykjanes, Iceland

DOE Data Explorer

Andrew Fowler

2015-07-24

Results for fluid rare earth elment analyses from Reykjanes wells RN-12 and RN-19. The data have not been corrected for flashing. Samples preconcetrated using chelating resin with IDA functional group (InertSep ME-1). Analyzed using and Element magnetic sctor ICP-MS.
Measurement of Radon-Induced Backgrounds in the NEXT Double Beta Decay Experiment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Novella, P.; et al.

The measurement of the internal 222Rn activity in the NEXT-White detector during the so-called Run-II period with 136Xe-depleted xenon is discussed in detail, together with its implications for double beta decay searches in NEXT. The activity is measured through the alpha production rate induced in the fiducial volume by 222Rn and its alpha-emitting progeny. The specific activity is measured to bemore » $$(37.5\\pm 2.3~\\mathrm{(stat.)}\\pm 5.9~\\mathrm{(syst.)})$$~mBq/m$^3$. Radon-induced electrons have also been characterized from the decay of the 214Bi daughter ions plating out on the cathode of the time projection chamber. From our studies, we conclude that radon-induced backgrounds are sufficiently low to enable a successful NEXT-100 physics program, as the projected rate contribution should not exceed 0.2~counts/yr in the neutrinoless double beta decay sample.« less
Application of thoron interference as a tool for simultaneous measurement of radon and thoron with a pulse ionisation chamber.

PubMed

Tripathi, R M; Sumesh, C G; Vinod Kumar, A; Puranik, V D

2013-07-01

Pulse ionisation chamber (PIC)-based monitors measuring radioactive gas radon ((222)Rn) without energy discrimination will have interference due to thoron ((220)Rn) present in the atmosphere. A technique has been developed to use this property of interference for simultaneous measurement of radon and thoron gas. These monitors work on the principle of counting of gross alphas emitted from radon and its progeny. A theoretical model has been developed for the variation of thoron sensitivity with respect to the flow rate of gas through the monitor. The thoron sensitivity of the monitor is found to vary with the flow rate of gas through the monitor. Using this sensitivity, the sampling procedure has been developed and verified for simultaneous measurement of radon and thoron. The PIC-measured radon and thoron concentration using this procedure agrees well with those measured by using standard radon and thoron discriminating monitor.
Studies on radiation dose due to radioactive elements present in ground water and soil samples around Mysore city, India.

PubMed

Chandrashekara, M S; Veda, S M; Paramesh, L

2012-04-01

A systematic study of the ground water and soil samples collected from different locations around Mysore city (12(°)N and 76(°)E) has been carried out. (226)Ra activity concentration in water samples varies from 0.28 to 189 mBq l(-1) with a geometric mean (GM) of 4.75 mBq l(-1) and (222)Rn concentration in ground water varies from 4.25 to 435 Bq l(-1) with a GM of 25.9 Bq l(-1). The GM of inhalation and ingestion doses due to (222)Rn in water is 65.2 and 5.43, µSv y(-1), respectively. The measured GM gamma dose rate in air is 85.4 nGy h(-1) and absorbed dose rate estimated from the measured activity of radionuclides is 92.6 nGy h(-1).
Transforming RN education: clinical learning and clinical knowledge development.

PubMed

Benner, P

1993-04-01

Transforming RN education has the potential for transforming clinical teaching and learning for all students. The returning RN student offers possibilities for clinical learning that the generic student does not have, but this should not cause us to limit the returning RN student to the generic level. Where possible innovative programs should be developed to move the RN student from baccalaureate level to the Master's level. As educators, we should take the opportunity to increase the numbers of nurses who are educationally prepared to move into advanced levels of practice. The returning RN student offers a rich human resource for the profession, and a rich resource for improving our clinical teaching as well as our practice.
Assessing RN-to-RN peer review on clinical units.

PubMed

Pfeiffer, Judith A; Wickline, Mary A; Deetz, Jill; Berry, Elise S

2012-04-01

The primary purpose of this study was to measure informal registered nurse (RN)-to-RN peer review (defined as collegial communication about the quality of nursing care) at the work-unit level. Survey design with cluster sampling of 28 hospital or ambulatory care units (n = 541 respondents). Results were compared with existing patient safety and satisfaction data. A chi-squared test was used to compare responses against nurse characteristics. Nurses agreed that RN-to-RN peer review takes place on their units, but no correlation with patient safety and satisfaction data was found. Misunderstandings about the meaning of peer review were evident. Open-ended comments revealed barriers to peer review: fear of retribution, language barriers and lack of professionalism. Nurses need clarification of peer review. Issues with common language in a professional environment need to be addressed and nurses can learn collaboration from each other's cultures. Managers should support RN-to-RN peer review on clinical units. Methods used here may be useful to assess current departmental nurse peer review. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Environmental impact of CO2, Rn, Hg degassing from the rupture zones produced by Wenchuan M s 8.0 earthquake in western Sichuan, China.

PubMed

Zhou, Xiaocheng; Chen, Zhi; Cui, Yueju

2016-10-01

The concentrations and flux of CO2, (222)Radon (Rn), and gaseous elemental mercury (Hg) in soil gas were investigated based on the field measurements in June 2010 at ten sites along the seismic rupture zones produced by the May 12, 2008, Wenchuan M s 8.0 earthquake in order to assess the environmental impact of degassing of CO2, Rn and Hg. Soil gas concentrations of 344 sampling points were obtained. Seventy measurements of CO2, Rn and Hg flux by the static accumulation chamber method were performed. The results of risk assessment of CO2, Rn and Hg concentration in soil gas showed that (1) the concentration of CO2 in the epicenter of Wenchuan M s 8.0 earthquake and north end of seismic ruptures had low risk of asphyxia; (2) the concentrations of Rn in the north segment of seismic ruptures had high levels of radon, Maximum was up to level 4, according to Chinese code (GB 50325-2001); (3) the average geoaccumulation index I geo of soil Hg denoted the lack of soil contamination, and maximum values classified the soil gas as moderately to strongly polluted in the epicenter. The investigation of soil gas CO2, Rn and Hg degassing rate indicated that (1) the CO2 in soil gas was characterized by a mean [Formula: see text] of -20.4 ‰ and by a mean CO2 flux of 88.1 g m(-2) day(-1), which were in the range of the typical values for biologic CO2 degassing. The maximum of soil CO2 flux reached values of 399 g m(-2) day(-1) in the epicenter; (2) the soil Rn had higher exhalation in the north segment of seismic ruptures, the maximum reached value of 1976 m Bq m(-2) s(-1); (3) the soil Hg flux was lower, ranging from -2.5 to 18.7 n g m(-2) h(-1) and increased from south to north. The mean flux over the all profiles was 4.2 n g m(-2) h(-1). The total output of CO2 and Hg degassing estimated along seismic ruptures for a survey area of 18.17 km(2) were approximately 0.57 Mt year(-1) and 688.19 g year(-1). It is recommended that land-use planners should incorporate soil gas and/or gas flux measurements in the environmental assessment of areas of possible risk. A survey of all houses along seismic ruptures is advised as structural measures to prevent the ingress of soil gases, including CO2 and Rn, were needed in some houses.
A Comparison of Medication Histories Obtained by a Pharmacy Technician Versus Nurses in the Emergency Department.

PubMed

Markovic, Marija; Mathis, A Scott; Ghin, Hoytin Lee; Gardiner, Michelle; Fahim, Germin

2017-01-01

To compare the medication history error rate of the emergency department (ED) pharmacy technician with that of nursing staff and to describe the workflow environment. Fifty medication histories performed by an ED nurse followed by the pharmacy technician were evaluated for discrepancies (RN-PT group). A separate 50 medication histories performed by the pharmacy technician and observed with necessary intervention by the ED pharmacist were evaluated for discrepancies (PT-RPh group). Discrepancies were totaled and categorized by type of error and therapeutic category of the medication. The workflow description was obtained by observation and staff interview. A total of 474 medications in the RN-PT group and 521 in the PT-RPh group were evaluated. Nurses made at least one error in all 50 medication histories (100%), compared to 18 medication histories for the pharmacy technician (36%). In the RN-PT group, 408 medications had at least one error, corresponding to an accuracy rate of 14% for nurses. In the PT-RPh group, 30 medications had an error, corresponding to an accuracy rate of 94.4% for the pharmacy technician ( P < 0.0001). The most common error made by nurses was a missing medication (n = 109), while the most common error for the pharmacy technician was a wrong medication frequency (n = 19). The most common drug class with documented errors for ED nurses was cardiovascular medications (n = 100), while the pharmacy technician made the most errors in gastrointestinal medications (n = 11). Medication histories obtained by the pharmacy technician were significantly more accurate than those obtained by nurses in the emergency department.
Doses from beta radiation in sensitive layers of human lung and dose conversion factors due to 222Rn/220Rn progeny.

PubMed

Markovic, V M; Stevanovic, N; Nikezic, D

2011-08-01

Great deal of work has been devoted to determine doses from alpha particles emitted by (222)Rn and (220)Rn progeny. In contrast, contribution of beta particles to total dose has been neglected by most of the authors. The present work describes a study of the detriment of (222)Rn and (220)Rn progeny to the human lung due to beta particles. The dose conversion factor (DCF) was introduced to relate effective dose and exposure to radon progeny; it is defined as effective dose per unit exposure to inhaled radon or thoron progeny. Doses and DCFs were determined for beta radiation in sensitive layers of bronchi (BB) and bronchioles (bb), taking into account inhaled (222)Rn and (220)Rn progeny deposited in mucus and cilia layer. The nuclei columnar secretory and short basal cells were considered to be sensitive target layers. For dose calculation, electron-absorbed fractions (AFs) in the sensitive layers of the BB and bb regions were used. Activities in the fast and slow mucus of the BB and bb regions were obtained using the LUNGDOSE software developed earlier. Calculated DCFs due to beta radiation were 0.21 mSv/WLM for (222)Rn and 0.06 mSv/WLM for (220)Rn progeny. In addition, the influence of Jacobi room parameters on DCFs was investigated, and it was shown that DCFs vary with these parameters by up to 50%.
DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mezo, Adam R.; Sridhar, Vandana; Badger, John

The neonatal Fc receptor, FcRn, is responsible for the long half-life of IgG molecules in vivo and is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. A family of peptides comprising the consensus motif GHFGGXY, where X is preferably a hydrophobic amino acid, was shown previously to inhibit the human IgG:human FcRn protein-protein interaction (Mezo, A. R., McDonnell, K. A., Tan Hehir, C. A., Low, S. C., Palombella, V. J., Stattel, J. M., Kamphaus, G. D., Fraley, C., Zhang, Y., Dumont, J. A., and Bitonti, A. J. (2008) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A., 105, 2337-2342). Herein, the x-raymore » crystal structure of a representative monomeric peptide in complex with human FcRn was solved to 2.6 {angstrom} resolution. The structure shows that the peptide binds to human FcRn at the same general binding site as does the Fc domain of IgG. The data correlate well with structure-activity relationship data relating to how the peptide family binds to human FcRn. In addition, the x-ray crystal structure of a representative dimeric peptide in complex with human FcRn shows how the bivalent ligand can bridge two FcRn molecules, which may be relevant to the mechanism by which the dimeric peptides inhibit FcRn and increase IgG catabolism in vivo. Modeling of the peptide:FcRn structure as compared with available structural data on Fc and FcRn suggest that the His-6 and Phe-7 (peptide) partially mimic the interaction of His-310 and Ile-253 (Fc) in binding to FcRn, but using a different backbone topology.« less
Neonatal Fc Receptor Regulation of Lung Immunoglobulin and CD103+ Dendritic Cells Confers Transient Susceptibility to Tuberculosis.

PubMed

Vogelzang, Alexis; Lozza, Laura; Reece, Stephen T; Perdomo, Carolina; Zedler, Ulrike; Hahnke, Karin; Oberbeck-Mueller, Dagmar; Dorhoi, Anca; Kaufmann, Stefan H E

2016-10-01

The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) extends the systemic half-life of IgG antibodies by chaperoning bound Fc away from lysosomal degradation inside stromal and hematopoietic cells. FcRn also transports IgG across mucosal barriers into the lumen, and yet little is known about how FcRn modulates immunity in the lung during homeostasis or infection. We infected wild-type (WT) and FcRn-deficient (fcgrt(-/-)) mice with Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Mycobacterium tuberculosis to investigate whether recycling and transport of IgG via FcRn influences innate and adaptive immunity in the lung in response to bacterial infection. We found that FcRn expression maintains homeostatic IgG levels in lung and leads to preferential secretion of low-affinity IgG ligands into the lumen. Fcgrt(-/-) animals exhibited no evidence of developmental impairment of innate immunity in the lung and were able to efficiently recruit neutrophils in a model of acute bacterial pneumonia. Although local humoral immunity in lung increased independently of the presence of FcRn during tuberculosis, there was nonetheless a strong impact of FcRn deficiency on local adaptive immunity. We show that the quantity and quality of IgG in airways, as well as the abundance of dendritic cells in the lung, are maintained by FcRn. FcRn ablation transiently enhanced local T cell immunity and neutrophil recruitment during tuberculosis, leading to a lower bacterial burden in lung. This novel understanding of tissue-specific modulation of mucosal IgG isotypes in the lung by FcRn sheds light on the role of mucosal IgG in immune responses in the lung during homeostasis and bacterial disease. Copyright © 2016 Vogelzang et al.
Nurse staffing and hospital ownership in California.

PubMed

Seago, Jean Ann; Spetz, Joanne; Mitchell, Shannon

2004-05-01

The purpose of this study is to describe the relationship between nurse staffing and owner type or specific corporate owner in California acute care hospitals. Little empirical data exist regarding nurse staffing as it relates to owner type or specific corporate owner. With minimum staffing ratios scheduled to be implemented in January 2004, this study provides baseline data for evaluating the impact of minimum staffing ratios in California. The study design is descriptive and cross-sectional. Data used in this study are for short-term general hospitals that reported to the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development database for fiscal years ending in 1997 through 1999. Six regression models were estimated using pooled data from the 3 years of data. The most consistent significant findings are: increased patient days or patient discharges predict increased registered nurse (RN) hours; lower RN wages predict increased RN hours; higher technology scores predict increased RN hours; and in 1998 there was an across-the-board decrease in RN hours. Other significant findings include that for-profit hospitals and for-profit systems had fewer RN productive hours for medical-surgical nursing, and select corporate owners, unrelated to profit status, had consistently fewer RN productive hours for medical-surgical nursing. For-profit hospitals and systems behaved differently in the healthcare market environment of the late 1990s. Select nonprofit systems were also using significantly less RN staffing. Other findings support the implication that as technology sophistication increases, there will be a need for increased RN hours to manage the advanced technology. This runs counter to the argument that increasing technology will decrease the need for RN hours. Finally, as discharges go up, the need for RN hours increases.
Impact of SPR biosensor assay configuration on antibody: Neonatal Fc receptor binding data

PubMed Central

Wang, Xiangdan; McKay, Patrick; Dutina, George; Hass, Philip E.; Nijem, Ihsan; Allison, David; Cowan, Kyra J.; Lin, Kevin; Quarmby, Valerie; Yang, Jihong

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT Binding interactions with the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) are one determinant of pharmacokinetic properties of recombinant human monoclonal antibody (rhumAb) therapeutics, and a conserved binding motif in the crystallizable fragment (Fc) region of IgG molecules interacts with FcRn. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor assays are often used to characterize interactions between FcRn and rhumAb therapeutics. In such assays, generally either the rhumAb (format 1) or the FcRn protein (format 2) is immobilized on a biosensor chip. However, because evidence suggests that, in some cases, the variable domains of a rhumAb may also affect FcRn binding, we evaluated the effect of SPR assay configuration on binding data. We sought to assess FcRn binding properties of 2 rhumAbs (rhumAb1 and rhumAb2) to FcRn proteins using these 2 biosensor assay formats. The two rhumAbs have greater than 99% sequence identity in the Fc domain but differ in their Fab regions. rhumAb2 contains a positively charged patch in the variable domain that is absent in rhumAb1. Our results showed that binding of rhumAb1 to FcRn was independent of biosensor assay configuration, while binding of rhumAb2 to FcRn was highly SPR assay configuration dependent. Further investigations revealed that the format dependency of rhumAb2-FcRn binding is linked to the basic residues that form a positively charged patch in the variable domain of rhumAb2. Our work highlights the importance of analyzing rhumAb-FcRn binding interactions using 2 alternate SPR biosensor assay configurations. This approach may also provide a simple way to identify the potential for non-Fc-driven FcRn binding interactions in otherwise typical IgGs. PMID:28001487

Investigating the Interaction between the Neonatal Fc Receptor and Monoclonal Antibody Variants by Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange Mass Spectrometry*

PubMed Central

Jensen, Pernille Foged; Larraillet, Vincent; Schlothauer, Tilman; Kettenberger, Hubert; Hilger, Maximiliane; Rand, Kasper D.

2015-01-01

The recycling of immunoglobulins by the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is of crucial importance in the maintenance of antibody levels in plasma and is responsible for the long half-lives of endogenous and recombinant monoclonal antibodies. From a therapeutic point of view there is great interest in understanding and modulating the IgG–FcRn interaction to optimize antibody pharmacokinetics and ultimately improve efficacy and safety. Here we studied the interaction between a full-length human IgG1 and human FcRn via hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry and targeted electron transfer dissociation to map sites perturbed by binding on both partners of the IgG–FcRn complex. Several regions in the antibody Fc region and the FcRn were protected from exchange upon complex formation, in good agreement with previous crystallographic studies of FcRn in complex with the Fc fragment. Interestingly, we found that several regions in the IgG Fab region also showed reduced deuterium uptake. Our findings indicate the presence of hitherto unknown FcRn interaction sites in the Fab region or a possible conformational link between the IgG Fc and Fab regions upon FcRn binding. Further, we investigated the role of IgG glycosylation in the conformational response of the IgG–FcRn interaction. Removal of antibody glycans increased the flexibility of the FcRn binding site in the Fc region. Consequently, FcRn binding did not induce a similar conformational stabilization of deglycosylated IgG as observed for the wild-type glycosylated IgG. Our results provide new molecular insight into the IgG–FcRn interaction and illustrate the capability of hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry to advance structural proteomics by providing detailed information on the conformation and dynamics of large protein complexes in solution. PMID:25378534
Exploring 222Rn as a tool for tracing groundwater inflows from eskers and moraines into slope peatlands of the Amos region of Quebec, Canada.

PubMed

Berthot, Laureline; Pinti, Daniele L; Larocque, Marie; Gagné, Sylvain; Ferlatte, Miryane; Cloutier, Vincent

2016-11-01

Peatlands can play an important role in the hydrological dynamics of a watershed. However, interactions between groundwater and peat water remain poorly understood. Here, we present results of an exploratory study destined to test radon ( 222 Rn) as a potential tracer of groundwater inflows from fluvioglacial landform aquifers to slope peatlands in the Amos region of Quebec, Canada. 222 Rn occurs in groundwater but is expected to be absent from peat water because of its rapid degassing to the atmosphere. Any 222 Rn activity detected in peat water should therefore derive from groundwater inflow. 222 Rn activity was measured in groundwater from municipal, domestic wells and newly drilled and instrumented piezometers from the Saint-Mathieu-Berry and Barraute eskers (n = 9), from the Harricana Moraine (n = 4), and from the fractured bedrock (n = 3). Forty measurements of 222 Rn activity were made from piezometers installed in five slope peatlands, along six transects oriented perpendicular to the fluvioglacial deposits. The relationship between 222 Rn and total dissolved solids (TDS) measured in water from the mineral deposits underlying the peat layer suggests that 222 Rn is introduced by lateral inflow from eskers and moraine together with salinity. This input is then diluted by peat water, depleted in both TDS and 222 Rn. The fact that a relationship between TDS and 222 Rn is visible calls for a continuous inflow of groundwater from lateral eskers/moraines, being 222 Rn rapidly removed from the system by radioactive decay. Although more research is required to improve the sampling and tracing techniques, this work shows the potential of 222 Rn tracer to identify groundwater inflow areas from granular aquifers found in eskers and moraines to slope peatlands. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Evaluate transport processes in MERRA driven chemical transport models using updated 222Rn emission inventories and global observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, B.; Liu, H.; Crawford, J. H.; Fairlie, T. D.; Chen, G.; Chambers, S. D.; Kang, C. H.; Williams, A. G.; Zhang, K.; Considine, D. B.; Payer Sulprizio, M.; Yantosca, R.

2015-12-01

Convective and synoptic processes play a major role in determining the transport and distribution of trace gases and aerosols in the troposphere. The representation of these processes in global models (at ~100-1000 km horizontal resolution) is challenging, because convection is a sub-grid process and needs to be parameterized, while synoptic processes are close to the grid scale. Depending on the parameterization schemes used in climate models, the role of convection in transporting trace gases and aerosols may vary from model to model. 222Rn is a chemically inert and radioactive gas constantly emitted from soil and has a half-life (3.8 days) comparable to synoptic timescale, which makes it an effective tracer for convective and synoptic transport. In this study, we evaluate the convective and synoptic transport in two chemical transport models (GMI and GEOS-Chem), both driven by the NASA's MERRA reanalysis. Considering the uncertainties in 222Rn emissions, we incorporate two more recent scenarios with regionally varying 222Rn emissions into GEOS-Chem/MERRA and compare the simulation results with those using the relatively uniform 222Rn emissions in the standard model. We evaluate the global distribution and seasonality of 222Rn concentrations simulated by the two models against an extended collection of 222Rn observations from 1970s to 2010s. The intercomparison will improve our understanding of the spatial variability in global 222Rn emissions, including the suspected excessive 222Rn emissions in East Asia, and provide useful feedbacks on 222Rn emission models. We will assess 222Rn vertical distributions at different latitudes in the models using observations at surface sites and in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere. Results will be compared with previous models driven by other meteorological fields (e.g., fvGCM and GEOS4). Since the decay of 222Rn is the source of 210Pb, a useful radionuclide tracer attached to submicron aerosols, improved understanding of emissions and transport of 222Rn will provide insights into the transport, distribution, and wet deposition of 210Pb aerosols.
The large outbursts studied by small telescopes - the case of RS Oph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kundra, E.; Hric, L.

2014-03-01

Cataclysmic variables (CVs) are one of the dominant part in astronomical research. Small telescopes are widely used to search for the sudden brightening of such stars. We present our experience with observations of the RS Ophiuchi (RS Oph) and analyses of the light curves. RS Oph is a binary system with 6 recorded outbursts classified as a recurrent nova (RN). We used the telescopes of AI SAS to measure the brightness of RS Oph after its last outburst occurred on February 12, 2006. The new observations indicate the ongoing mass transfer. % and the estimation of the mass transfer rate allow to make a prediction of the %next outburst of this RN.
Internal exposure from building materials exhaling (222)Rn and (220)Rn as compared to external exposure due to their natural radioactivity content.

PubMed

Ujić, Predrag; Celiković, Igor; Kandić, Aleksandar; Vukanac, Ivana; Durasević, Mirjana; Dragosavac, Dusan; Zunić, Zora S

2010-01-01

The main scope of this paper is to point out the importance of introducing radon and thoron exhalation measurements from building materials in the regulating frame. Currently (2009), such a regulation of this kind of exposure is not explicitly included in the Serbian regulating network. To this end, this work reports concentration measurements of (226)Ra, (232)Th and (40)K and radon and thoron exhalation rates from building materials used in Serbia. Following detailed analysis, it was noticed that both internal exposures to radon and/or thoron exhaling from building materials may exceed external exposures to their precursors contained therein.
Regularity of random attractors for fractional stochastic reaction-diffusion equations on Rn

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gu, Anhui; Li, Dingshi; Wang, Bixiang; Yang, Han

2018-06-01

We investigate the regularity of random attractors for the non-autonomous non-local fractional stochastic reaction-diffusion equations in Hs (Rn) with s ∈ (0 , 1). We prove the existence and uniqueness of the tempered random attractor that is compact in Hs (Rn) and attracts all tempered random subsets of L2 (Rn) with respect to the norm of Hs (Rn). The main difficulty is to show the pullback asymptotic compactness of solutions in Hs (Rn) due to the noncompactness of Sobolev embeddings on unbounded domains and the almost sure nondifferentiability of the sample paths of the Wiener process. We establish such compactness by the ideas of uniform tail-estimates and the spectral decomposition of solutions in bounded domains.
Spectral estimates of net radiation and soil heat flux

USGS Publications Warehouse

Daughtry, C.S.T.; Kustas, William P.; Moran, M.S.; Pinter, P. J.; Jackson, R. D.; Brown, P.W.; Nichols, W.D.; Gay, L.W.

1990-01-01

Conventional methods of measuring surface energy balance are point measurements and represent only a small area. Remote sensing offers a potential means of measuring outgoing fluxes over large areas at the spatial resolution of the sensor. The objective of this study was to estimate net radiation (Rn) and soil heat flux (G) using remotely sensed multispectral data acquired from an aircraft over large agricultural fields. Ground-based instruments measured Rn and G at nine locations along the flight lines. Incoming fluxes were also measured by ground-based instruments. Outgoing fluxes were estimated using remotely sensed data. Remote Rn, estimated as the algebraic sum of incoming and outgoing fluxes, slightly underestimated Rn measured by the ground-based net radiometers. The mean absolute errors for remote Rn minus measured Rn were less than 7%. Remote G, estimated as a function of a spectral vegetation index and remote Rn, slightly overestimated measured G; however, the mean absolute error for remote G was 13%. Some of the differences between measured and remote values of Rn and G are associated with differences in instrument designs and measurement techniques. The root mean square error for available energy (Rn - G) was 12%. Thus, methods using both ground-based and remotely sensed data can provide reliable estimates of the available energy which can be partitioned into sensible and latent heat under nonadvective conditions. ?? 1990.
RotundRacGAP Functions with Ras during Spermatogenesis and Retinal Differentiation in Drosophila melanogaster

PubMed Central

Bergeret, Evelyne; Pignot-Paintrand, Isabelle; Guichard, Annabel; Raymond, Karine; Fauvarque, Marie-Odile; Cazemajor, Michel; Griffin-Shea, Ruth

2001-01-01

Our analysis of rotund (rn) null mutations in Drosophila melanogaster revealed that deletion of the rn locus affects both spermatid and retinal differentiation. In the male reproductive system, the absence of RnRacGAP induced small testes, empty seminal vesicles, short testicular cysts, reduced amounts of interspermatid membrane, the absence of individualization complexes, and incomplete mitochondrial condensation. Flagellar growth continued within the short rn null cysts to produce large bulbous terminations of intertwined mature flagella. Organization of the retina was also severely perturbed as evidenced by grossly misshapen ommatidia containing reduced numbers of photoreceptor and pigment cells. These morphological phenotypes were rescued by genomic rnRacGAP transgenes, demonstrating that RnRacGAP function is critical to spermatid and retinal differentiation. The testicular phenotypes were suppressed by heterozygous hypomorphic mutations in the Dras1 and drk genes, indicating cross talk between RacGAP-regulated signaling and that of the Ras pathway. The observed genetic interactions are consistent with a model in which Rac signaling is activated by Ras and negatively regulated by RnRacGAP during spermatid differentiation. RnRacGAP and Ras cross talk also operated during retinal differentiation; however, while the heterozygous hypomorphic drk mutation continued to act as a suppressor of the rn null mutation, the heterozygous hypomorphic Dras1 mutation induced novel retinal phenotypes. PMID:11509670
Evaluating Creative Thinking of Rn-Bsn Students in the Course of Clinical Case Study and Practicum

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Ku, Ya-Lie

2015-01-01

This case study evaluated creative thinking of RN-BSN students in the course of clinical case study and practicum. Study design used quantitative and qualitative evaluations of creative thinking of RN-BSN students by triangulation method in the course of clinical case study and practicum. Sixty RN-BSN students self-perceived the changing levels of…
Contribution of 222Rn in domestic water supplies to 222Rn in indoor air in Colorado homes

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lawrence, E.P.; Wanty, R.B.; Nyberg, P.

1992-01-01

The contribution of 222Rn from domestic water wells to indoor air was investigated in a study of 28 houses near Conifer, CO. Air concentrations determined by alpha-track detectors (ATDs) and continuous radon monitors were compared with the predictions of a single-cell model. In many of the houses, the water supply was shown to contribute significantly to levels of indoor 222Rn. The data from the ATD study were augmented with a continuous monitoring study of a house near Lyons, CO. The well water in that house has the highest known concentration of 222Rn in water yet reported (93 MBq m-3). The temporal pattern in the indoor 222Rn concentration corresponds to water-use records. In general, it is difficult to quantify the proportion of indoor radon attributable to water use. Several lines of evidence suggest that the single-cell model underestimates this proportion. Continuous- monitoring data, although useful, are impractical due to the cost of the equipment. We propose a protocol for 222Rn measurement based on three simultaneous integrating radon detectors that may help estimate the proportion of indoor 222Rn derived from the water supply.
The effect of Web-based Braden Scale training on the reliability of Braden subscale ratings.

PubMed

Magnan, Morris A; Maklebust, JoAnn

2009-01-01

The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Web-based Braden Scale training on the reliability of Braden Scale subscale ratings made by nurses working in acute care hospitals. A secondary purpose was to describe the distribution of reliable Braden subscale ratings before and after Web-based Braden Scale training. Secondary analysis of data from a recently completed quasi-experimental, pretest-posttest, interrater reliability study. A convenience sample of RNs working at 3 Michigan medical centers voluntarily participated in the study. RN participants included nurses who used the Braden Scale regularly at their place of employment ("regular users") as well as nurses who did not use the Braden Scale at their place of employment ("new users"). Using a pretest-posttest, quasi-experimental design, pretest interrater reliability data were collected to identify the percentage of nurses making reliable Braden subscale assessments. Nurses then completed a Web-based Braden Scale training module after which posttest interrater reliability data were collected. The reliability of nurses' Braden subscale ratings was determined by examining the level of agreement/disagreement between ratings made by an RN and an "expert" rating the same patient. In total, 381 RN-to-expert dyads were available for analysis. During both the pretest and posttest periods, the percentage of reliable subscale ratings was highest for the activity subscale, lowest for the moisture subscale, and second lowest for the nutrition subscale. With Web-based Braden Scale training, the percentage of reliable Braden subscale ratings made by new users increased for all 6 subscales with statistically significant improvements in the percentage of reliable assessments made on 3 subscales: sensory-perception, moisture, and mobility. Training had virtually no effect on the percentage of reliable subscale ratings made by regular users of the Braden Scale. With Web-based Braden Scale training the percentage of nurses making reliable ratings increased for all 6 subscales, but this was true for new users only. Additional research is needed to identify educational approaches that effectively improve and sustain the reliability of subscale ratings among regular users of the Braden Scale. Moreover, special attention needs to be given to ensuring that all nurses working with the Braden Scale have a clear understanding of the intended meanings and correct approaches to rating moisture and nutrition subscales.
Pseudocapsule of renal cell carcinoma associated with Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusion: a clue for tumor enucleation?

PubMed Central

Cheng, Xiangming; He, Jian; Gan, Weidong; Fan, Xiangshan; Yang, Jun; Zhu, Bin; Guo, Hongqian

2015-01-01

Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of tumor enucleation (TE) for patients with small renal cell carcinoma (RCC) associated with Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusion (Xp11.2 RCC) by analyzing the pseudocapsule characteristics of Xp11.2 RCCs comparing with that of clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Methods: From June 2007 to February 2014, 22 patients with Xp11.2 RCC who were diagnosed by fluorescence in-situ hybridization polyclonal (FISH) assay and 32 patients with ccRCC treated in our institution were comparatively studied. 12 patients with ccRCC underwent radical nephrectomy (RN) and 20 received TE. Among 22 patients with Xp11.2 RCC, 19 were treated by RN and 3 by TE (1 by radiofrequency ablation assisted TE). Pseudocapsule and other clinicopathological characteristics of the two subtypes of RCC were compared. Survival of patients treated with different surgical methods was evaluated and compared. Results: Pseudocapsule incidence of Xp11.2 RCC (14/22, 63.6%) was lower than that of ccRCC (32/32, 100%, P<0.001). However, pseudocapsule integrity rate of Xp11.2 RCC (10/14, 71.4%) was comparable with that of ccRCC (23/32, 71.9%, P=1.000). The 5-year overall survival of patients with ccRCC treated with RN and TE was 86% and 81%, respectively (P=0.845). Three patients with small Xp11.2 RCC performed well after TE. Conclusions: Over half Xp11.2 RCC had pseudocapsules, whose integrity rate was comparable to that of ccRCC. Treatment effectives of TE and RN were comparable in ccRCC. A preliminary attempt to treat small Xp11.2 RCC with intact pseudocapsule by using TE produced a favorable treatment outcome. PMID:26191243
Chemical durability and leaching mechanism of Ce0.5Eu0.5PO4 ceramics: Effects of temperature and pH values

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Xiaofeng; Teng, Yuancheng; Wu, Lang; Huang, Yi; Ma, Jiyan; Wang, Guolong

2015-11-01

Ce0.5Eu0.5PO4 ceramics with high relative density were prepared by hot-press (HPS) and pressureless (PLS) sintering. The effects of temperature and pH values on the chemical durability of the ceramics were investigated. The results show that an increase of acidity significantly accelerated the corrosion of the samples. In alkaline leachates, further release elements were prevented by the newborn surface precipitation. The leach rate (Rn) of HPS sample was similar to that of PLS specimen in deionized water, but higher Rn for PLS sample was found in pH = 11 solution. Moreover, apparent activation energy of the dissolution of Eu (40 ± 4 kJ mol-1) is much higher than that of Ce (20 ± 1 kJ mol-1), leading to the higher normalized elemental leach rate of Eu. Both the Eu and Ce elements have low leach rates (10-12-10-9 m d-1) after 42 days in all the leachates studied in this work.
Thoron (220Rn) in the indoor environment and work places

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ramachandran, T. V.; Sahoo, B. K.

2009-08-01

Ever since studies on uranium miners established the presence of a positive risk coefficient for the occurrence of lung cancer in miners exposed to elevated levels of 222Rn and its progeny, there was a great upsurge of interest in the measurement of 222Rn in the environment. Subsequently, considerable data is being generated on the levels of 222Rn in the environment across the worlds and is being periodically reported by UNSCEAR reports. In contrast to this, data pertaining to 220Rn in indoors and workplace environment is scaree due to the genral perception that its levels are negligible due to its shorter half life, and subsequently its contribution to the total inhalation dose is ignored, in the presence of other significant sources of natural radiation. This may not be true. Globally many locations have higher levels of natural background radiation due to elevated levels of primordial radio nuclides in the soil and their decay products like radon (222Rn), and thoron (220Rn) in the environment. Of late, technologically enhanced naturally occurring radioactive material has also contributed to the burden of background radiation. It is estimated that inhalation of 222Rn, 220Rn and their short lived progenies contribute more than 54% of the total natural background radiation dose received by the general population. 220Rn problem exists in industries which use thorium nitrate. Including India, lamps using thoriated gas mantles are still being used for indoor and outdoor lighting and by hawkers in rural as well as urban areas. Considering the fact that large amount of thorium nitrate is being handled by these industries, contribution to the inhalation dose of workers from 220Rn gas emanated and build up of the progeny in ambient air may also be quite significant. In this paper current status of 220Rn levels in the indoor environment and workplaces as well as in other industries where large amount of 232Th is being handled is being summarized. Methods of measurement and reported levels are also summarized.
Temporal Cerebral Microbleeds Are Associated With Radiation Necrosis and Cognitive Dysfunction in Patients Treated for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shen, Qingyu; Department of Neurology, Zengcheng People's Hospital, Guangzhou; Lin, Focai

Purpose: Radiation therapy for patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) may be complicated with radiation-induced brain necrosis (RN), resulting in deteriorated cognitive function. However, the underlying mechanism of this phenomenon remains unclear. This study attempts to elucidate the association between cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) and radiation necrosis and cognitive dysfunction in NPC patients treated with radiation therapy. Methods and Materials: This cross-sectional study included 106 NPC patients who were exposed to radiation therapy (78 patients with RN and 28 without RN). Sixty-six patients without discernable intracranial pathology were included as the control group. CMBs were confirmed using susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Cognitivemore » function was accessed using Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Patients with a total score below 26 were defined as cognitively dysfunction. Results: Seventy-seven patients (98.7%) in the RN group and 12 patients (42.9%) in the non-RN group had at least 1 CMB. In contrast, only 14 patients (21.2%) in the control group had CMBs. In patients with a history of radiation therapy, CMBs most commonly presented in temporal lobes (76.4%) followed by cerebellum (23.7%). Patients with RN had more temporal CMBs than those in the non-RN group (37.7 ± 51.9 vs 3.8 ± 12.6, respectively; P<.001). The number of temporal lobe CMBs was predictive for larger volume of brain necrosis (P<.001) in multivariate linear regression analysis. Although cognitive impairment was diagnosed in 55.1% of RN patients, only 7.1% of non-RN patients sustained cognitive impairment (P<.001). After adjusting for age, sex, education, period after radiation therapy, CMBs in other lobes, and RN volume, the number of temporal CMBs remained an independent risk factor for cognitive dysfunction (odds ratio [OR]: 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01-1.04; P=.003). Conclusions: CMBs is a common radiological manifestation in NPC patients with RN. The number of temporal CMBs is independently associated with increased likelihood of cognitive dysfunction in patients with RN.« less
Radon induced background processes in the KATRIN pre-spectrometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fränkle, F. M.; Bornschein, L.; Drexlin, G.; Glück, F.; Görhardt, S.; Käfer, W.; Mertens, S.; Wandkowsky, N.; Wolf, J.

2011-10-01

The KArlsruhe TRItium Neutrino (KATRIN) experiment is a next generation, model independent, large scale tritium β-decay experiment to determine the effective electron anti-neutrino mass by investigating the kinematics of tritium β-decay with a sensitivity of 200 meV/c 2 using the MAC-E filter technique. In order to reach this sensitivity, a low background level of 10 -2 counts per second (cps) is required. This paper describes how the decay of radon in a MAC-E filter generates background events, based on measurements performed at the KATRIN pre-spectrometer test setup. Radon (Rn) atoms, which emanate from materials inside the vacuum region of the KATRIN spectrometers, are able to penetrate deep into the magnetic flux tube so that the α-decay of Rn contributes to the background. Of particular importance are electrons emitted in processes accompanying the Rn α-decay, such as shake-off, internal conversion of excited levels in the Rn daughter atoms and Auger electrons. While low-energy electrons (<100 eV) directly contribute to the background in the signal region, higher energy electrons can be stored magnetically inside the volume of the spectrometer. Depending on their initial energy, they are able to create thousands of secondary electrons via subsequent ionization processes with residual gas molecules and, since the detector is not able to distinguish these secondary electrons from the signal electrons, an increased background rate over an extended period of time is generated.
Inferring Groundwater Age in an Alluvial Aquifer from Tracer Concentrations in the Stream - Little Wind River, Wyoming

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goble, D.; Gardner, W. P.; Naftz, D. L.; Solder, J. E.

2017-12-01

We use environmental tracers: CFC's, SF6, and 222Rn measured in stream water to determine volume and mean age of groundwater discharging to the Little Wind River, near Riverton, Wyoming. Samples of 222Rn were collected every 200 m along a 2 km reach, surrounding a known groundwater discharge zone. Nearby groundwater wells, in-stream piezometers and seepage meters were sampled for 222Rn, CFC's and SF6. Tracer concentrations measured in groundwater and in-stream piezometers were used to estimate the mean age of the subsurface system. High resolution 222Rn samples were used to determine the location and volume of groundwater inflow using a model of instream transport that includes radioactive decay and gas exchange with the atmosphere. The age of groundwater entering the stream was then estimated from in-stream measured CFC and SF6 concentrations using a new coupled stream transport and lumped-parameter groundwater age model. Ages derived from in-stream measurements were then compared to the age of subsurface water measured in piezometers, seepage meters, and groundwater wells. We then asses the ability of groundwater age inferred from in-stream samples to provide constraint on the age of the subsurface discharge to the stream. The ability to asses groundwater age from in-stream samples can provide a convenient method to constrain the regional distribution of groundwater circulation rates when groundwater sampling is challenging or wells are not in place.
How Do You Adapt Your Plans For a Nursing Career When the Unexpected Occurs.

PubMed

Spawn, Nadia

2017-12-01

I graduated nursing school seven months pregnant in November 2015. My plans were to take the NCLEX immediately, give birth, take three months to adjust, and begin my nursing career in a glamorous emergency department position by the spring.  Fast forward to January 2016. My family lost three members in a car accident and my daughter was born high-needs, requiring multiple hospitalizations. Although she and my family needed me, I was anxious about taking too much time off after nursing school, which could delay my career advancement. .
Radon Release and Its Simulated Effect on Radiation Doses.

PubMed

Orabi, Momen

2017-03-01

One of the main factors that affect the uncertainty in calculating the gamma-radiation absorbed dose rate inside a room is the variation in the degree of secular equilibrium of the considered radioactive series. A component of this factor, considered in this paper, is the release of radon (Rn) from building materials to the living space of the room. This release takes place through different steps. These steps are represented and mathematically formulated. The diffusion of radon inside the material is described by Fick's second law. Some of the factors affecting the radon release rate (e.g. covering walls, moisture, structure of the building materials, etc.) are discussed. This scheme is used to study the impact of radon release on the gamma-radiation absorbed dose rate inside a room. The investigation is carried out by exploiting the MCNP simulation software. Different building materials are considered with different radon release rates. Special care is given to Rn due to its relatively higher half-life and higher indoor concentration than the other radon isotopes. The results of the presented model show that the radon release is of a significant impact in some building materials.
Association Between Radiation Necrosis and Tumor Biology After Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Brain Metastasis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Miller, Jacob A.; Bennett, Elizabeth E.; Xiao, Roy

Background: The primary dose-limiting toxicity of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) is radiation necrosis (RN), which occurs after approximately 5% to 10% of treatments. This adverse event may worsen neurologic deficits, increase the frequency and cost of imaging, and necessitate prolonged treatment with steroids or antiangiogenic agents. Previous investigations have primarily identified lesion size and dosimetric constraints as risk factors for RN in small populations. We hypothesized that disease histology, receptor status, and mutational status are associated with RN. Methods and Materials: All patients presenting with brain metastasis between 1997 and 2015 who underwent SRS and subsequent radiographic follow-up at a singlemore » tertiary-care institution were eligible for inclusion. The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of radiographic RN. Multivariate competing risks regression was used to identify biological risk factors for RN. Results: 1939 patients (5747 lesions) were eligible for inclusion; 285 patients (15%) experienced radiographic RN after the treatment of 427 (7%) lesions. After SRS, the median time to RN was 7.6 months. After multivariate analysis, graded prognostic assessment, renal pathology, lesion diameter, and the heterogeneity index remained independently predictive of RN in the pooled cohort. In subset analyses of individual pathologies, HER2-amplified status (hazard ratio [HR] 2.05, P=.02), BRAF V600+ mutational status (HR 0.33, P=.04), lung adenocarcinoma histology (HR 1.89, P=.04), and ALK rearrangement (HR 6.36, P<.01) were also associated with RN. Conclusions: In the present investigation constituting the largest series of RN, several novel risk factors were identified, including renal histology, lung adenocarcinoma histology, HER2 amplification, and ALK/BRAF mutational status. These risk factors may be used to guide clinical trial design incorporating biological risk stratification or dose escalation. Future studies determining the optimal timing of targeted therapies are warranted to further define the risk of RN.« less

Inverse modeling of Asian (222)Rn flux using surface air (222)Rn concentration.

PubMed

Hirao, Shigekazu; Yamazawa, Hiromi; Moriizumi, Jun

2010-11-01

When used with an atmospheric transport model, the (222)Rn flux distribution estimated in our previous study using soil transport theory caused underestimation of atmospheric (222)Rn concentrations as compared with measurements in East Asia. In this study, we applied a Bayesian synthesis inverse method to produce revised estimates of the annual (222)Rn flux density in Asia by using atmospheric (222)Rn concentrations measured at seven sites in East Asia. The Bayesian synthesis inverse method requires a prior estimate of the flux distribution and its uncertainties. The atmospheric transport model MM5/HIRAT and our previous estimate of the (222)Rn flux distribution as the prior value were used to generate new flux estimates for the eastern half of the Eurasian continent dividing into 10 regions. The (222)Rn flux densities estimated using the Bayesian inversion technique were generally higher than the prior flux densities. The area-weighted average (222)Rn flux density for Asia was estimated to be 33.0 mBq m(-2) s(-1), which is substantially higher than the prior value (16.7 mBq m(-2) s(-1)). The estimated (222)Rn flux densities decrease with increasing latitude as follows: Southeast Asia (36.7 mBq m(-2) s(-1)); East Asia (28.6 mBq m(-2) s(-1)) including China, Korean Peninsula and Japan; and Siberia (14.1 mBq m(-2) s(-1)). Increase of the newly estimated fluxes in Southeast Asia, China, Japan, and the southern part of Eastern Siberia from the prior ones contributed most significantly to improved agreement of the model-calculated concentrations with the atmospheric measurements. The sensitivity analysis of prior flux errors and effects of locally exhaled (222)Rn showed that the estimated fluxes in Northern and Central China, Korea, Japan, and the southern part of Eastern Siberia were robust, but that in Central Asia had a large uncertainty.
Coastal groundwater dynamics off Santa Barbara, California: combining geochemical tracers, electromagnetic seepmeters, and electrical resistivity

USGS Publications Warehouse

Swarzenski, Peter W.; Izbicki, John A.

2009-01-01

This paper presents repeat field measurements of 222Rn and 223,224,226,228Ra, electromagnetic seepage meter-derived advective fluxes, and multi-electrode, stationary and continuous marine resistivity surveys collected between November 2005 and April 2007 to study coastal groundwater dynamics within a marine beach in Santa Barbara, California. The study provides insight into magnitude and dynamics of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) and associated nutrient loadings into near-shore coastal waters, where the predominant SGD drivers can be both spatially and temporally separated. Rn-222 and 223,224,226,228Ra were utilized to quantify the total and saline contribution, respectively, of SGD. The two short-lived 224,223Ra isotopes provided an estimate of apparent near-shore water mass age, as well as an estimate of the Ra-derived eddy diffusion coefficient, Kh (224Ra = 2.86 ?? 0.7 m2 s-1; 223Ra = 1.32 ?? 0.5 m2 s-1). Because 222Rn (t1/2 = 3.8 day) and 224Ra (t1/2 = 3.66 day) have comparable half-lives and production terms, they were used in concert to examine respective water column removal rates. Electromagnetic seepage meters recorded the physical, bi-directional exchange across the sediment/water interface, which ranged from -6.7 to 14.5 cm day-1, depending on the sampling period and position relative to the low tide line. Multi-day time-series 222Rn measurements in the near-shore water column yielded total (saline + fresh) SGD rates that ranged from 3.1 ?? 2.6 to 9.2 ?? 0.8 cm day-1, depending on the sampling season. Offshore 226Ra (t1/2 = 1600 year) and 222Rn gradients were used with the calculated Kh values to determine seabed flux estimates (dpm m-2 day-1), which were then converted into SGD rates (7.1 and 7.9 cm day-1, respectively). Lastly, SGD rates were used to calculate associated nutrient loads for the near-shore coastal waters off Santa Barbara. Depending on both the season and the SGD method utilized, the following SGD-derived nutrient inputs were computed (mol per day per meter of shoreline): NH4+ = 0.06-0.29 mol day-1 m-1; SiO4 = 0.22-0.29 mol day-1 m-1; PO43-= 0.04-0.17 mol day-1 m-1; [NO2- + NO3-] = 0-0.52 mol day-1 m-1; dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) = 0.01-0.17 mol day-1 m-1, and dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) = 0.08-0.09 mol day-1 m-1. Compared to the ephemeral nature of fluvial and marine inputs into this region, such SGD-derived loadings can provide a sustained source of select nutrients to the coastal waters off Santa Barbara, California that should be accounted for in mass balance estimates.
Btk Inhibitor RN983 Delivered by Dry Powder Nose-only Aerosol Inhalation Inhibits Bronchoconstriction and Pulmonary Inflammation in the Ovalbumin Allergic Mouse Model of Asthma.

PubMed

Phillips, Jonathan E; Renteria, Lorena; Burns, Lisa; Harris, Paul; Peng, Ruoqi; Bauer, Carla M T; Laine, Dramane; Stevenson, Christopher S

2016-06-01

In allergen-induced asthma, activated mast cells start the lung inflammatory process with degranulation, cytokine synthesis, and mediator release. Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk) activity is required for the mast cell activation during IgE-mediated secretion. This study characterized a novel inhaled Btk inhibitor RN983 in vitro and in ovalbumin allergic mouse models of the early (EAR) and late (LAR) asthmatic response. RN983 potently, selectively, and reversibly inhibited the Btk enzyme. RN983 displayed functional activities in human cell-based assays in multiple cell types, inhibiting IgG production in B-cells with an IC50 of 2.5 ± 0.7 nM and PGD2 production from mast cells with an IC50 of 8.3 ± 1.1 nM. RN983 displayed similar functional activities in the allergic mouse model of asthma when delivered as a dry powder aerosol by nose-only inhalation. RN983 was less potent at inhibiting bronchoconstriction (IC50(RN983) = 59 μg/kg) than the β-agonist salbutamol (IC50(salbutamol) = 15 μg/kg) in the mouse model of the EAR. RN983 was more potent at inhibiting the antigen induced increase in pulmonary inflammation (IC50(RN983) = <3 μg/kg) than the inhaled corticosteroid budesonide (IC50(budesonide) = 27 μg/kg) in the mouse model of the LAR. Inhalation of aerosolized RN983 may be effective as a stand-alone asthma therapy or used in combination with inhaled steroids and β-agonists in severe asthmatics due to its potent inhibition of mast cell activation.
Changes in complementarity-determining regions significantly alter IgG binding to the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) and pharmacokinetics

PubMed Central

King, Amy C.; Kavosi, Mania; Wang, Mengmeng; O'Hara, Denise M.; Tchistiakova, Lioudmila; Katragadda, Madan

2018-01-01

ABSTRACT A large body of data exists demonstrating that neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) binding of an IgG via its Fc CH2-CH3 interface trends with the pharmacokinetics (PK) of IgG. We have observed that PK of IgG molecules vary widely, even when they share identical Fc domains. This led us to hypothesize that domains distal from the Fc could contribute to FcRn binding and affect PK. In this study, we explored the role of these IgG domains in altering the affinity between IgG and FcRn. Using a surface plasmon resonance-based assay developed to examine the steady-state binding affinity (KD) of IgG molecules to FcRn, we dissected the contributions of IgG domains in modulating the affinity between FcRn and IgG. Through analysis of a broad collection of therapeutic antibodies containing more than 50 unique IgG molecules, we demonstrated that variable domains, and in particular complementarity-determining regions (CDRs), significantly alter binding affinity to FcRn in vitro. Furthermore, a panel of IgG molecules differing only by 1–5 mutations in CDRs altered binding affinity to FcRn in vitro, by up to 79-fold, and the affinity values correlated with calculated isoelectric point values of both variable domains and CDR-L3. In addition, tighter affinity values trend with faster in vivo clearance of a set of IgG molecules differing only by 1–3 mutations in human FcRn transgenic mice. Understanding the role of CDRs in modulation of IgG affinity to FcRn in vitro and their effect on PK of IgG may have far-reaching implications in the optimization of IgG therapeutics. PMID:28991504
(222)Rn activity in groundwater of the St. Lawrence Lowlands, Quebec, eastern Canada: relation with local geology and health hazard.

PubMed

Pinti, Daniele L; Retailleau, Sophie; Barnetche, Diogo; Moreira, Floriane; Moritz, Anja M; Larocque, Marie; Gélinas, Yves; Lefebvre, René; Hélie, Jean-François; Valadez, Arisai

2014-10-01

One hundred ninety-eight groundwater wells were sampled to measure the (222)Rn activity in the region between Montreal and Quebec City, eastern Canada. The aim of this study was to relate the spatial distribution of (222)Rn activity to the geology and the hydrogeology of the study area and to estimate the potential health risks associated with (222)Rn in the most populated area of the Province of Quebec. Most of the groundwater samples show low (222)Rn activities with a median value of 8.6 Bq/L. Ninety percent of samples show (222)Rn activity lower than 100 Bq/L, the exposure limit in groundwater recommended by the World Health Organization. A few higher (222)Rn activities (up to 310 Bq/L) have been measured in wells from the Appalachian Mountains and from the magmatic intrusion of Mont-Saint-Hilaire, known for its high level of indoor radon. The spatial distribution of (222)Rn activity seems to be related mainly to lithology differences between U-richer metasediments of the Appalachian Mountains and magmatic intrusions and the carbonaceous silty shales of the St. Lawrence Platform. Radon is slightly enriched in sodium-chlorine waters that evolved at contact with clay-rich formations. (226)Ra, the parent element of (222)Rn could be easily adsorbed on clays, creating a favorable environment for the production and release of (222)Rn into groundwater. The contribution of groundwater radon to indoor radon or by ingestion is minimal except for specific areas near Mont-Saint-Hilaire or in the Appalachian Mountains where this contribution could reach 45% of the total radioactive annual dose. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Calibration of Electret-Based Integral Radon Monitors Using NIST Polyethylene-Encapsulated 226Ra/222Rn Emanation (PERE) Standards.

PubMed

Collé, R; Kotrappa, P; Hutchinson, J M R

1995-01-01

The recently developed 222 Rn emanation standards that are based on polyethylene-encapsulated 226 Ra solutions were employed for a first field-measurement application test to demonstrate their efficacy in calibrating passive integral radon monitors. The performance of the capsules was evaluated with respect to the calibration needs of electret ionization chambers (E-PERM ® , Rad Elec Inc.). The encapsulated standards emanate well-characterized and known quantities of 222 Rn, and were used in two different-sized, relatively-small, accumulation vessels (about 3.6 L and 10 L) which also contained the deployed electret monitors under test. Calculated integral 222 Rn activities from the capsules over various accumulation times were compared to the averaged electret responses. Evaluations were made with four encapsulated standards ranging in 226 Ra activity from approximately 15 Bq to 540 Bq (with 222 Rn emanation fractions of 0.888); over accumulation times from 1 d to 33 d; and with four different types of E-PERM detectors that were independently calibrated. The ratio of the electret chamber response E Rn to the integral 222 Rn activity I Rn was constant (within statistical variations) over the variables of the specific capsule used, the accumulation volume, accumulation time, and detector type. The results clearly demonstrated the practicality and suitability of the encapsulated standards for providing a simple and readily-available calibration for those measurement applications. However, the mean ratio E Rn / I Rn was approximately 0.91, suggesting a possible systematic bias in the extant E-PERM calibrations. This 9 % systematic difference was verified by an independent test of the E-PERM calibration based on measurements with the NIST radon-in-water standard generator.
Contribution of (222)Rn-bearing water to indoor radon and indoor air quality assessment in hot spring hotels of Guangdong, China.

PubMed

Song, Gang; Wang, Xinming; Chen, Diyun; Chen, Yongheng

2011-04-01

This study investigates the contribution of radon ((222)Rn)-bearing water to indoor (222)Rn in thermal baths. The (222)Rn concentrations in air were monitored in the bathroom and the bedroom. Particulate matter (PM, both PM(10) and PM(2.5)) and carbon dioxide (CO(2)) were also monitored with portable analyzers. The bathrooms were supplied with hot spring water containing 66-260 kBq m(-3) of (222)Rn. The results show that the spray of hot spring water from the bath spouts is the dominant mechanism by which (222)Rn is released into the air of the bathroom, and then it diffuses into the bedroom. Average (222)Rn level was 110-410% higher in the bedrooms and 510-1200% higher in the bathrooms compared to the corresponding average levels when there was no use of hot spring water. The indoor (222)Rn levels were influenced by the (222)Rn concentrations in the hot spring water and the bathing times. The average (222)Rn transfer coefficients from water to air were 6.2 × 10(-4)-4.1 × 10(-3). The 24-h average levels of CO(2) and PM(10) in the hotel rooms were 89% and 22% higher than the present Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) standard of China. The main particle pollutant in the hotel rooms was PM(2.5). Radon and PM(10) levels in some hotel rooms were at much higher concentrations than guideline levels, and thus the potential health risks to tourists and especially to the hotel workers should be of great concern, and measures should be taken to lower inhalation exposure to these air pollutants. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Btk Inhibitor RN983 Delivered by Dry Powder Nose-only Aerosol Inhalation Inhibits Bronchoconstriction and Pulmonary Inflammation in the Ovalbumin Allergic Mouse Model of Asthma

PubMed Central

Renteria, Lorena; Burns, Lisa; Harris, Paul; Peng, Ruoqi; Bauer, Carla M.T.; Laine, Dramane; Stevenson, Christopher S.

2016-01-01

Abstract Background: In allergen-induced asthma, activated mast cells start the lung inflammatory process with degranulation, cytokine synthesis, and mediator release. Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk) activity is required for the mast cell activation during IgE-mediated secretion. Methods: This study characterized a novel inhaled Btk inhibitor RN983 in vitro and in ovalbumin allergic mouse models of the early (EAR) and late (LAR) asthmatic response. Results: RN983 potently, selectively, and reversibly inhibited the Btk enzyme. RN983 displayed functional activities in human cell-based assays in multiple cell types, inhibiting IgG production in B-cells with an IC50 of 2.5 ± 0.7 nM and PGD2 production from mast cells with an IC50 of 8.3 ± 1.1 nM. RN983 displayed similar functional activities in the allergic mouse model of asthma when delivered as a dry powder aerosol by nose-only inhalation. RN983 was less potent at inhibiting bronchoconstriction (IC50(RN983) = 59 μg/kg) than the β-agonist salbutamol (IC50(salbutamol) = 15 μg/kg) in the mouse model of the EAR. RN983 was more potent at inhibiting the antigen induced increase in pulmonary inflammation (IC50(RN983) = <3 μg/kg) than the inhaled corticosteroid budesonide (IC50(budesonide) = 27 μg/kg) in the mouse model of the LAR. Conclusions: Inhalation of aerosolized RN983 may be effective as a stand-alone asthma therapy or used in combination with inhaled steroids and β-agonists in severe asthmatics due to its potent inhibition of mast cell activation. PMID:27111445
On the Hardy Space Theory of Compensated Compactness Quantities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lindberg, Sauli

2017-05-01

We make progress on a problem of Coifman et al. (J Math Pures Appl (9) 72(3): 247-286, 1993) by showing that the Jacobian operator J does not map {W^{1,n}(Rn, Rn) onto the Hardy space H1(Rn) for any {n ≥ 2}. The related question about the surjectivity of {J : dot{W}^{1,n}(Rn,Rn) to H1(Rn) is still open. The second main result and its variants reduce the proof of H1 regularity of a large class of compensated compactness quantities to an integration by parts or easy arithmetic, and applications are presented. Furthermore, we exhibit a class of nonlinear partial differential operators in which weak sequential continuity is a strictly stronger condition than H1 regularity, shedding light on another question of Coifman, Lions, Meyer and Semmes.
Effective Dose Radon 222 of the Tap Water in Children and Adults People; Minab City, Iran.

PubMed

Fakhri, Yadolah; Kargosha, Morteza; Langarizadeh, Ghazaleh; Zandsalimi, Yahya; Rasouli Amirhajeloo, Leila; Moradi, Mahboobeh; Moradi, Bigard; Mirzaei, Maryam

2015-09-01

(222)Rn is a radioactive, odorless, and colorless element which has a half-life of 3.83 days. One of (222)Rn main resources are Groundwater (wells, springs, etc.). Hence, the use of groundwater with high concentration of (222)Rn can increase the risk of lung and stomach cancers. Concentration of (222)Rn in tap water of Minab city in two temperatures 5 and 15 ºC was measured by radon meter model RTM1668-2. The effective dose was calculated by equations proposed by UNSCEAR. Geometric mean concentration of (222)Rn in drinking water was found to be 0.78±0.06 and 0.46±0.04 Bq/l at 5 and 15 ̊C (p value<0.05), respectively. The effective doses were 0.006 and 0.003 mSv/y for adults, and 0.011 and 0.007 mSv/y for the children, respectively (p value<0.05). Besides, the effective dose for adult through inhaling (222)Rn at 5 and 15 ̊C were estimated 0.0021 and 0.0012mSv/y, respectively. Geometric mean concentration in (222)Rn drinking water and effective dose received from drinking water and inhalation of (222)Rn is lower than WHO and EPA standard limits. Increasing temperature of drinking water will decrease the effective dose received. Annual Effective dose received from inhalation and consumption of (222)Rn in drinking water in children is more than adults.
Effective Dose Radon 222 of the Tap Water in Children and Adults People; Minab City, Iran

PubMed Central

Fakhri, Yadolah; Kargosha, Morteza; Langarizadeh, Ghazaleh; Zandsalimi, Yahya; Amirhajeloo, Leila Rasouli; Moradi, Mahboobeh; Moradi, Bigard; Mirzaei, Maryam

2016-01-01

222Rn is a radioactive, odorless, and colorless element which has a half-life of 3.83 days. One of 222Rn main resources are Groundwater (wells, springs, etc.). Hence, the use of groundwater with high concentration of 222Rn can increase the risk of lung and stomach cancers. Concentration of 222Rn in tap water of Minab city in two temperatures 5 and 15 ºC was measured by radon meter model RTM1668-2. The effective dose was calculated by equations proposed by UNSCEAR. Geometric mean concentration of 222Rn in drinking water was found to be 0.78±0.06 and 0.46±0.04 Bq/l at 5 and 15 °C (p value<0.05), respectively. The effective doses were 0.006 and 0.003 mSv/y for adults, and 0.011 and 0.007 mSv/y for the children, respectively (p value<0.05). Besides, the effective dose for adult through inhaling 222Rn at 5 and 15 °C were estimated 0.0021 and 0.0012mSv/y, respectively. Geometric mean concentration in 222Rn drinking water and effective dose received from drinking water and inhalation of 222Rn is lower than WHO and EPA standard limits. Increasing temperature of drinking water will decrease the effective dose received. Annual Effective dose received from inhalation and consumption of 222Rn in drinking water in children is more than adults. PMID:26573047
A new site for 85Kr measurements on groundwater samples

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lange, T.; Hebert, D.

2001-06-01

As a part of a new 85Kr laboratory, which is currently being established at the Institute of Applied Physics in Freiberg, Germany, a modified CO 2 extractor for krypton sampling is used. The operation principle is simple and contamination-safe with a reasonable effort. Continuously pumped under pressure, the water passes a Venturi-type nozzle and degasses due to relaxing. The extracted gas mixture then enters a recirculation system flowing through a CO 2 trap (NaOH), molecular sieves and a cooled charcoal trap, where krypton and other components are adsorbed. Remaining gases reenter the system at the Venturi-type nozzle. To keep the circulation alive an additional helium support is needed. In a simple field experiment, extraction efficiencies up to 0.8 for 222Rn have been measured.
Evolving practice patterns for the management of small renal masses in the USA.

PubMed

Yang, Glen; Villalta, Jacqueline D; Meng, Maxwell V; Whitson, Jared M

2012-10-01

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Treatment options for small renal masses include radical nephrectomy (RN), partial nephrectomy (PN), ablation, and surveillance. PN provides equivalent oncological as RN for small tumours, but long-term outcomes for ablation and surveillance are poorly defined. Due to changing techniques and technology, treatment patterns for small renal masses are rapidly developing. Prior studies had analysed utilisation trends for PN and RN to 2006, revealing a relative rise in the rate of PN. However, overall treatment trends including surveillance and ablation had not been studied using a population-based cohort. It has become increasingly clear that RN is associated with greater renal and cardiovascular deterioration than nephron-sparing treatments. Thus, it is important to understand current population-based practice patterns for the treatment of small renal masses to assess whether practitioners are adhering to ever-changing principles in this field. The present study provides up-to-date treatment trends in the USA using a large population-based cohort. To describe the changing practice patterns in the management of small renal masses, including the use of surveillance and ablative techniques. All patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) registry treated for renal masses of ≤7 cm in diameter, from 1998 to 2008, were included for analysis. Annual trends in the use of surveillance, ablation, partial nephrectomy (PN), and radical nephrectomy (RN) were calculated. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine the association of demographic and clinical characteristics with treatment method. In all, 48 148 patients from 17 registry sites with a mean age of 63.4 years were included for analysis. Between 1998 and 2008, for masses of <2 cm and 2.1-4 cm, there was a dramatic increase in the proportion of patients undergoing PN (31% vs 50%, 16% vs 33%, respectively) and ablation (1% vs 11%, 2% vs 9%, respectively). In multivariable analysis, later year of diagnosis, male gender, being married, clinically localised disease, and smaller tumours were associated with increased use of PN vs RN. Later year of diagnosis, male gender, being unmarried, smaller tumour, and the presence of bilateral masses were associated with increased use of ablation and surveillance vs RN. PN is now used in half of all patients with the smallest renal masses, and its use continues to increase over time. Ablation and surveillance are less common overall, but there is increased usage over time in select populations. © 2012 THE AUTHORS. BJU INTERNATIONAL © 2012 BJU INTERNATIONAL.
Illuminating hospital discharge planning: staff nurse decision making.

PubMed

Rhudy, Lori M; Holland, Diane E; Bowles, Kathryn H

2010-11-01

This qualitative study proposed to examine staff RN's decision making related to discharge planning and perceptions of their role. Themes resulting from interviews were "following the script" and "RN as coordinator." The decision to consult a discharge planner occurred when the patient's situation did not follow the RN's expectations. Discharge planning for nonroutine situations was considered disruptive to the RN's workflow. The RN's role was limited to oversight when a discharge planner was involved. Understanding RNs' decision making in this key process provides valuable insights into differentiating routine from nonroutine patient situations and deploying appropriate resources in a timely fashion. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
A Comparison of Medication Histories Obtained by a Pharmacy Technician Versus Nurses in the Emergency Department

PubMed Central

Markovic, Marija; Mathis, A. Scott; Ghin, Hoytin Lee; Gardiner, Michelle; Fahim, Germin

2017-01-01

Purpose: To compare the medication history error rate of the emergency department (ED) pharmacy technician with that of nursing staff and to describe the workflow environment. Methods: Fifty medication histories performed by an ED nurse followed by the pharmacy technician were evaluated for discrepancies (RN-PT group). A separate 50 medication histories performed by the pharmacy technician and observed with necessary intervention by the ED pharmacist were evaluated for discrepancies (PT-RPh group). Discrepancies were totaled and categorized by type of error and therapeutic category of the medication. The workflow description was obtained by observation and staff interview. Results: A total of 474 medications in the RN-PT group and 521 in the PT-RPh group were evaluated. Nurses made at least one error in all 50 medication histories (100%), compared to 18 medication histories for the pharmacy technician (36%). In the RN-PT group, 408 medications had at least one error, corresponding to an accuracy rate of 14% for nurses. In the PT-RPh group, 30 medications had an error, corresponding to an accuracy rate of 94.4% for the pharmacy technician (P < 0.0001). The most common error made by nurses was a missing medication (n = 109), while the most common error for the pharmacy technician was a wrong medication frequency (n = 19). The most common drug class with documented errors for ED nurses was cardiovascular medications (n = 100), while the pharmacy technician made the most errors in gastrointestinal medications (n = 11). Conclusion: Medication histories obtained by the pharmacy technician were significantly more accurate than those obtained by nurses in the emergency department. PMID:28090164
Decay characterization of solutions to the viscous Camassa-Holm equations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anh, Cung The; Trang, Pham Thi

2018-02-01

In this paper we study the decay characterization in the space H^Kσ({R}^n) of solutions to the viscous Camassa-Holm equations (VCHE) in the whole space {R}n (n=2, 3, 4 ), namely, where m+2p≤slant K , r^*=r^*(v_0) is the decay character of the initial datum v_0\\in H^Kσ({R}^n) . We also get the optimal lower bounds for decay rates of solutions to VCHE when -{n}/{2}. In particular, when v_0\\in H^Kσ({R}^n) \\cap L^1({R}^n) has decay character r^*(v_0)=0 , then we recover the previous results of Bjorland and Schonbek (2008 Ann. Inst. Henri Poincaré Anal. Non Linéaire 25 907-36).
Development of an aerosol chamber for calibration of 220Rn progeny detectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sorimachi, Atsuyuki; Ishikawa, Tetsuo; Tokonami, Shinji

2014-09-01

This paper describes an aerosol chamber system that can be used for calibrations and performance experiments of passive 220Rn progeny detectors. For the purpose of this study, an aerosol generation system using carnauba wax as the aerosol material was mounted into the 220Rn chamber. We used the chamber to measure characteristics of the equilibrium factor (F) of 220Rn and unattached fraction (fp) of 220Rn progeny, which are important parameters for dose estimation. The first experiment showed that continuous and stable generation of the unattached and aerosol-attached 220Rn progeny concentrations was obtained. We observed that the spatial distributions in the chamber of the vertical profiles of the unattached and aerosol-attached 220Rn progeny concentrations were homogeneous, as were the particle number concentration and count median diameter. The values of F and fp and their characteristics observed in this study were in the same range as the values reported from indoor measurements. We found that the characteristics of F and fp were dependent on the aerosol conditions (particle diameter and particle number concentration).
Isotropic probability measures in infinite-dimensional spaces

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Backus, George

1987-01-01

Let R be the real numbers, R(n) the linear space of all real n-tuples, and R(infinity) the linear space of all infinite real sequences x = (x sub 1, x sub 2,...). Let P sub in :R(infinity) approaches R(n) be the projection operator with P sub n (x) = (x sub 1,...,x sub n). Let p(infinity) be a probability measure on the smallest sigma-ring of subsets of R(infinity) which includes all of the cylinder sets P sub n(-1) (B sub n), where B sub n is an arbitrary Borel subset of R(n). Let p sub n be the marginal distribution of p(infinity) on R(n), so p sub n(B sub n) = p(infinity) (P sub n to the -1 (B sub n)) for each B sub n. A measure on R(n) is isotropic if it is invariant under all orthogonal transformations of R(n). All members of the set of all isotropic probability distributions on R(n) are described. The result calls into question both stochastic inversion and Bayesian inference, as currently used in many geophysical inverse problems.
An investigation of submarine groundwater-borne nutrient fluxes to the west Florida shelf and recurrent harmful algal blooms

USGS Publications Warehouse

Smith, Christopher G.; Swarzenski, Peter W.

2012-01-01

A cross-shelf, water-column mass balance of radon-222 (222Rn) provided estimates of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD), which were then used to quantify benthic nutrient fluxes. Surface water and groundwater were collected along a shore-normal transect that extended from Tampa Bay, Florida, across the Pinellas County peninsula, to the 10-m isobath in the Gulf of Mexico. Samples were analyzed for 222Rn and radium-223,224,226 (223,224,226Ra) activities as well as inorganic and organic nutrients. Cross-shore gradients of 222Rn and 223,224,226Ra activities indicate a nearshore source for these isotopes, which mixes with water characterized by low activities offshore. Radon-based SGD rates vary between 2.5 and 15 cm d-1 proximal to the shoreline and decrease offshore. The source of SGD is largely shallow exchange between surface and pore waters, although deeper groundwater cycling may also be important. Enrichment of total dissolved nitrogen and soluble reactive phosphorus in pore water combined with SGD rates results in specific nutrient fluxes comparable to or greater than estuarine fluxes from Tampa Bay. The significance of these fluxes to nearshore blooms of Karenia brevis is highlighted by comparison with prescribed nutrient demands for bloom maintenance and growth. Whereas our flux estimates do not indicate SGD and benthic fluxes as the dominant nutrient source to the harmful algal blooms, SGD-derived loads do narrow the deficit between documented nutrient supplies and bloom demands.
Fast Diffusion to Self-Similarity: Complete Spectrum, Long-Time Asymptotics, and Numerology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Denzler, Jochen; McCann, Robert J.

2005-03-01

The complete spectrum is determined for the operator on the Sobolev space W1,2ρ(Rn) formed by closing the smooth functions of compact support with respect to the norm Here the Barenblatt profile ρ is the stationary attractor of the rescaled diffusion equation in the fast, supercritical regime m the same diffusion dynamics represent the steepest descent down an entropy E(u) on probability measures with respect to the Wasserstein distance d2. Formally, the operator H=HessρE is the Hessian of this entropy at its minimum ρ, so the spectral gap H≧α:=2-n(1-m) found below suggests the sharp rate of asymptotic convergence: from any centered initial data 0≦u(0,x) ∈ L1(Rn) with second moments. This bound improves various results in the literature, and suggests the conjecture that the self-similar solution u(t,x)=R(t)-nρ(x/R(t)) is always slowest to converge. The higher eigenfunctions which are polynomials with hypergeometric radial parts and the presence of continuous spectrum yield additional insight into the relations between symmetries of Rn and the flow. Thus the rate of convergence can be improved if we are willing to replace the distance to ρ with the distance to its nearest mass-preserving dilation (or still better, affine image). The strange numerology of the spectrum is explained in terms of the number of moments of ρ.

Geohydrologic, geochemical, and geologic controls on the occurrence of radon in ground water near Conifer, Colorado, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Lawrence, E.; Poeter, E.; Wanty, R.

1991-01-01

Integrated studies of geohydrology, geochemistry, and geology of crystalline rocks in the vicinity of Conifer, Colorado, reveal that radon concentrations do not correlate with variations in concentrations of other dissolved species. Concentrations of major ions show systematic variations along selected groundwater flowpaths, whereas radon concentrations are dependent on local geochemical and geologic phenomena (such as localized uranium concentration in the rock or the presence of faults or folds). When radon enters the flow system, concentrations do not increase along flowpaths because its decay rate is fast relative to groundwater flow rates. Radon-222 is not in secular equilibrium with 238U and 226Ra in the water. Therefore, most of the 238U and 226Ra necessary to support the waterborne 222Rn must be present locally in the rock. High concentrations of dissolved radon are not found in zones of high transmissivity, and transmissivity is not correlated with rock type in the study area. A higher transmissivity can be indicative of higher water-volume to rock-surface-area ratios, which could effectively dilute 222Rn entering the water and/or may indicate that emanated radon is carried away more rapidly. Water samples collected from individual wells over periods of several months showed significant fluctuations in the dissolved 222Rn content. This fluctuation may be controlled by changes in the contributions of water-producing zones within the well resulting from seasonal fluctuations of the water table and/or pumping stresses. ?? 1991.
INDOOR RADON, THORON AND THEIR PROGENY CONCENTRATIONS IN HIGH THORON RURAL SERBIA ENVIRONMENTS.

PubMed

Zunic, Zora S; Stojanovska, Z; Veselinovic, N; Mishra, R; Yarmoshenko, I V; Sapra, B K; Ishikawa, T; Omori, Y; Curguz, Z; Bossew, P; Udovicic, V; Ramola, R C

2017-11-01

This article deals with the variation of radon (Rn), thoron (Tn) and their progeny concentrations expressed in terms of equilibrium equivalent concentrations (EERC and EETC), in 40 houses, in four villages of Sokobanja municipality, Southern Serbia. Two types of passive detectors were used: (1) discriminative radon-thoron detector for simultaneous Rn and Tn gases measurements and (2) direct Tn and Rn progeny sensors (DRPS/DTPS) for measuring Rn and Tn progeny concentrations. Detectors were exposed simultaneously for a single period of 12 months. Variations of Tn and EETC appear higher than those of Rn and EERC. Analysis of the spatial variation of the measured concentrations is also reported. This work is part of a wider survey of Rn, Tn and their progeny concentrations in indoor environments throughout the Balkan region started in 2011 year. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.
The neonatal Fc receptor, FcRn, as a target for drug delivery and therapy.

PubMed

Sockolosky, Jonathan T; Szoka, Francis C

2015-08-30

Immunoglobulin G (IgG)-based drugs are arguably the most successful class of protein therapeutics due in part to their remarkably long blood circulation. This arises from IgG interaction with the neonatal Fc receptor, FcRn. FcRn is the central regulator of IgG and albumin homeostasis throughout life and is increasingly being recognized as an important player in autoimmune disease, mucosal immunity, and tumor immune surveillance. Various engineering approaches that hijack or disrupt the FcRn-mediated transport pathway have been devised to develop long-lasting and non-invasive protein therapeutics, protein subunit vaccines, and therapeutics for treatment of autoimmune and infectious disease. In this review, we highlight the diverse biological functions of FcRn, emerging therapeutic opportunities, as well as the associated challenges of targeting FcRn for drug delivery and disease therapy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Effects of leadership characteristics on pediatric registered nurses' job satisfaction.

PubMed

Roberts-Turner, Reneé; Hinds, Pamela S; Nelson, John; Pryor, Juanda; Robinson, Nellie C; Wang, Jichuan

2014-01-01

Job satisfaction levels among registered nurses (RNs) influence RN recruitment, retention, turnover, and patient outcomes. Researchers examining the relationship between characteristics of nursing leadership and RN job satisfaction have treated RNs as a monolithic group with little research on the satisfaction of hospital-based pediatric RNs. This study assessed the relationship of transformational and transactional nursing leadership characteristics and RN job satisfaction reported by pediatric RNs. This single site study included 935 hospital-based pediatric RNs who completed validated survey items regarding nursing leadership and job satisfaction. A structural equation model (SEM) was applied to assess how autonomy (transformational leadership) and distributive justice (transactional leadership) influence RN job satisfaction, and how RN socio-demographic characteristics influence job satisfaction via autonomy and distributive justice. Findings revealed that both autonomy and distributive justice had significant positive effects on RN job satisfaction but the largest source of influence was autonomy.
The relation between radon in schools and in dwellings: A case study in a rural region of Southern Serbia.

PubMed

Žunić, Z S; Bossew, P; Bochicchio, F; Veselinovic, N; Carpentieri, C; Venoso, G; Antignani, S; Simovic, R; Ćurguz, Z; Udovicic, V; Stojanovska, Z; Tollefsen, T

2017-02-01

Recognized as a significant health hazard, radon (Rn) has been given increasing attention for years. Surveys of different kinds have been performed in many countries to assess the intensity and the geographical extent of possible Rn problems. Common surveys cover mainly dwellings, the indoor place with highest occupancy, and schools, where people spend a large fraction of their lifetime and which can also be considered exemplary for Rn exposure at workplaces; it has however been observed that relating them is difficult. It was unclear whether residential Rn at a location, or in a region, can be predicted by Rn at a school of that location, or vice versa. To current knowledge, no general rule seems applicable, as few models to describe the relationship between Rn in dwellings and in schools have been developed. In Southern Serbia, a Rn survey in a predominantly rural region was based on measurements in primary schools. The question arose whether or to which degree the results can be considered as indicative or even representative for residential Rn concentrations. To answer the question an additional survey of indoor Rn concentrations in dwellings was initiated, designed and performed in Sokobanja district in 2010-2012 in a manner to be able to detect a relationship if it exists. In the study region, 108 dwellings in 12 villages and towns were selected, with one primary school each. In this paper, we investigate how a relation between Rn in schools and dwellings could be identified and quantified, by developing a model and using experimental data from both the above main and additional surveys. The key criterion is the hypothesis that the relation dwellings - schools, if it exists, is stronger for dwellings closer to a school than for those dwellings further away. We propose methods to test the hypothesis. As result, the hypothesis is corroborated at 95% significance level. More specifically, on town level (typical size about 1 km), the Rn concentration ratio dwelling/school is about 0.8 (geometrical mean), with geometrical standard deviation (GSD) about 1.9. For dwelling and school hypothetically in the same location, the ratio is estimated about 0.7 with GSD about 1.5. We think that the methodology can be applied to structurally similar problems. The results could be used to create "conditional maps" of Rn concentration in dwellings, i.e., for example a map of probabilities that indoor Rn concentrations in dwellings exceed 100 Bq/m 3 , as function of Rn concentration in the local school. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Wage Inequity: Within-Market Comparative Analysis of Salary for Public Health Nurses and Hospital Nurses.

PubMed

Issel, L Michele; Lurie, Christine Fitzpatrick; Bekemeier, Betty

2016-01-01

The labor market perspective focuses on supply and demand for registered nurses (RNs) as employees. This perspective contrasts with beliefs in the public health sector that RNs working in local health departments (LHD) as public health nurses (PHNs) accept lower wages because of factors other than market demand. This study sought to describe the extent to which hourly wages of RNs working in LHDs are competitive with hospital RN wages within the same county market. A repeated measures survey design was used in collecting 2010 and 2014 data. The unit of analysis was the county, as an RN labor market for LHDs and hospitals. Survey questions captured factors common in human resources benefits and wage packages, such as differential pay, hourly rate pay based on years of experience, components of benefit packages (eg, sick and vacation leave), and reimbursement for education. Within each county, the LHD and all hospitals constituted a "market," yielding a potential 12 markets in our study sample. Human resources representatives from each of the 12 LHDs and from all hospitals within those 12 counties were invited to participate. We conducted comparisons with survey data using t test of mean differences on mean RN wages across years of experience. On average, LHDs paid significantly less than hospitals in their markets, at all levels of RN experience, and this gap increased with RN experience in the sample markets. Salary compression was evident in 2010 and worsened for PHNs in 2014, when compared with hospital RNs. In 2014, 100% of the sample LHDs offered reimbursements for continuing education for PHNs compared with 89% of hospitals providing this benefit. This study contributes to our understanding of the human resources challenges faced by LHDs and provides evidence elucidating resources issues that need to be addressed in order to improve recruitment and retention of PHNs.
Assessment of submarine groundwater discharge and associated dissolved inorganic carbon into a coastal wetland, western Taiwan via time-series observations of 222Rn

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsu, Feng-Hsin; Su, Chih-Chieh; Wang, Pei-Ling

2017-04-01

We investigated submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) and associated dissolved inorganic carbon flux into the Gaomei wetland, which is located south of the Tachia river's mouth, western Taiwan. This area is characterized by a great tidal range (over 3 m at spring tide) and a shallow unconfined aquifer (˜2 m below the seafloor) with high groundwater recharging rates (over 500 mm yr-1) in the hinterland. In this study we argue that in the Gaomei wetland, tidal pumping causes an exchanging between groundwater and seawater, resulting in an overall dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) flux into the wetland. Time-series observations of 222Rn were conducted over 2 tidal cycles in both dry (May of 2014) and wet seasons (August of 2014) seasons at a station 500 m offshore. Our result shows a good response to tidal fluctuation with higher 222Rn activities at low tide and lower 222Rn activities at high tide. Based on a 222Rn mass balance model taking all sources and sinks into account, we estimated a SGD flux ranging from -3.86 to 69 cm d-1 with slightly higher fluxes during the wet season (average SGD flux 22 cm d-1) compared to the dry season (average SGD flux 16 cm d-1). Our negative SGD flux estimates observed during high tides suggest that seawater infiltrates into the sediments during flood tide and discharges during ebb tide, proving the concept of seawater exchange across the water-sediment interface. The overall SGD-borne DIC fluxes range between 1.82×106 and 2.48×106 mol d-1 in dry and wet seasons, respectively, that are 26 % and 36 % of the river-induced DIC fluxes. Such an export of DIC flux from the groundwater (or recycled seawater) might have an impact on coastal biogeochemistry in the Gaomei wetland.
Worldwide isotope ratios of the Fukushima release and early-phase external dose reconstruction

PubMed Central

Chaisan, Kittisak; Smith, Jim T.; Bossew, Peter; Kirchner, Gerald; Laptev, Gennady V.

2013-01-01

Measurements of radionuclides (RNs) in air made worldwide following the Fukushima accident are quantitatively compared with air and soil measurements made in Japan. Isotopic ratios RN:137Cs of 131I, 132Te, 134,136Cs, are correlated with distance from release. It is shown, for the first time, that both within Japan and globally, ratios RN:137Cs in air were relatively constant for primarily particle associated radionuclides (134,136Cs; 132Te) but that 131I shows much lower local (<80 km) isotope ratios in soils relative to 137Cs. Derived isotope ratios are used to reconstruct external dose rate during the early phase post-accident. Model “blind” tests show more than 95% of predictions within a factor of two of measurements from 15 sites to the north, northwest and west of the power station. It is demonstrated that generic isotope ratios provide a sound basis for reconstruction of early-phase external dose rates in these most contaminated areas. PMID:24018776
Hepatic FcRn regulates albumin homeostasis and susceptibility to liver injury

PubMed Central

Pyzik, Michal; Rath, Timo; Kuo, Timothy T.; Win, Sanda; Baker, Kristi; Hubbard, Jonathan J.; Grenha, Rosa; Gandhi, Amit; Krämer, Thomas D.; Mezo, Adam R.; McDonnell, Kevin; Nienaber, Vicki; Andersen, Jan Terje; Mizoguchi, Atsushi; Blumberg, Laurence; Purohit, Shalaka; Jones, Susan D.; Christianson, Greg; Lencer, Wayne I.; Sandlie, Inger; Kaplowitz, Neil; Roopenian, Derry C.; Blumberg, Richard S.

2017-01-01

The neonatal crystallizable fragment receptor (FcRn) is responsible for maintaining the long half-life and high levels of the two most abundant circulating proteins, albumin and IgG. In the latter case, the protective mechanism derives from FcRn binding to IgG in the weakly acidic environment contained within endosomes of hematopoietic and parenchymal cells, whereupon IgG is diverted from degradation in lysosomes and is recycled. The cellular location and mechanism by which FcRn protects albumin are partially understood. Here we demonstrate that mice with global or liver-specific FcRn deletion exhibit hypoalbuminemia, albumin loss into the bile, and increased albumin levels in the hepatocyte. In vitro models with polarized cells illustrate that FcRn mediates basal recycling and bidirectional transcytosis of albumin and uniquely determines the physiologic release of newly synthesized albumin into the basal milieu. These properties allow hepatic FcRn to mediate albumin delivery and maintenance in the circulation, but they also enhance sensitivity to the albumin-bound hepatotoxin, acetaminophen (APAP). As such, global or liver-specific deletion of FcRn results in resistance to APAP-induced liver injury through increased albumin loss into the bile and increased intracellular albumin scavenging of reactive oxygen species. Further, protection from injury is achieved by pharmacologic blockade of FcRn–albumin interactions with monoclonal antibodies or peptide mimetics, which cause hypoalbuminemia, biliary loss of albumin, and increased intracellular accumulation of albumin in the hepatocyte. Together, these studies demonstrate that the main function of hepatic FcRn is to direct albumin into the circulation, thereby also increasing hepatocyte sensitivity to toxicity. PMID:28330995
The Effect of Physician Delegation to Other Health Care Providers on the Quality of Care for Geriatric Conditions

PubMed Central

Lichtenstein, Brian J.; Reuben, David B.; Karlamangla, Arun S.; Han, Weijuan; Roth, Carol P.; Wenger, Neil S.

2016-01-01

OBJECTIVES to examine the effects of delegation on quality of care that patients receive for three common geriatric conditions: dementia, falls, and incontinence. DESIGN pooled analysis of 8 the Assessing Care of Vulnerable Elders (ACOVE) projects from 1998 to 2010. SETTING 15 ambulatory practice sites across the United States PARTICIPANTS 4,776 patients age ≥ 65 years, of mixed demographic backgrounds who participated in ACOVE studies. INTERVENTION multivariate analysis of prior ACOVE observation and intervention studies was conducted, with in addition to two retrospectively defined variables: “intent to delegate” and “maximum delegation” for each ACOVE quality indicator (QI). MEASUREMENTS The primary outcome for the study was QI pass probability, by level of delegation, for 47 ACOVE quality indicators. RESULTS A total of 4,776 patients were evaluated, with 16,204 QIs included for analysis. Across all studies, QI pass probabilities were 0.36 for physician-performed tasks; 0.55 for nurse practitioner (NP), physician assistant (PA), and registered nurse (RN)-performed tasks; and 0.61 for medical assistant (MA), or licensed vocational nurse (LVN)-performed tasks. In multiply adjusted models, the independent pass-probability effect of delegation to NPs, PAs, or RNs was 1.37 (p = 0.055) CONCLUSIONS Delegation to non-physician providers is associated with higher quality of care for geriatric conditions in community practices and supports the value of interdisciplinary team management for common outpatient conditions among older adults. PMID:26480977
77 FR 9931 - Medicare and Medicaid Programs; Quarterly Listing of Program Issuances-October Through December 2011

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-21

... Ashby (410) 786-6322 Coverage Provisions. XI National Oncologic Positron Emission Stuart Caplan, RN, MAS... Tillman, RN, MAS (410) 786-9252 Facilities. XV Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Stuart Caplan, RN, MAS...
SEISMIC PREDICTION USING UNATTACHED RADON DECAY PRODUCTS.

PubMed

Harley, Naomi H; Chittaporn, Passaporn; Fisenne, Isabel M

2017-11-01

Long-term measurements of the 222Rn concentration, 222Rn decay product activity, particle size distribution, and unattached, and attached 222Rn decay products, were made at two locations using the 22 y radon decay product 210Pb as their tracer. The particle size sampler collects both short lived 222Rn decay products that ultimately decay to 210Pb on the filters, and also airborne 210Pb. The measurements were made outdoors, at a suburban home and at Fernald, OH, a former uranium processing facility, on top of one of the two 226Ra storage silos containing 150 TBq 226Ra. The size distributions showed the unattached fractions, i.e. particle diameter 2-4 nm, to be 1.5% at the home and 14% at the silos. The unattached fraction of 218Po can be shown to be an immediate measure of the 222Rn concentration. The data indicates detection of the pressure driven 222Rn flow at the silo and with the enhanced measurement capability of a filtered air source versus the usual 222Rn gas measurement. It is proposed that real time measurements of unattached 218Po may be used to identify rapidly changing 222Rn concentrations associated with pressure driven soil air flow associated with seismic activity. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Exploring atmospheric radon with airborne gamma-ray spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baldoncini, Marica; Albéri, Matteo; Bottardi, Carlo; Minty, Brian; Raptis, Kassandra G. C.; Strati, Virginia; Mantovani, Fabio

2017-12-01

222Rn is a noble radioactive gas produced along the 238U decay chain, which is present in the majority of soils and rocks. As 222Rn is the most relevant source of natural background radiation, understanding its distribution in the environment is of great concern for investigating the health impacts of low-level radioactivity and for supporting regulation of human exposure to ionizing radiation in modern society. At the same time, 222Rn is a widespread atmospheric tracer whose spatial distribution is generally used as a proxy for climate and pollution studies. Airborne gamma-ray spectroscopy (AGRS) always treated 222Rn as a source of background since it affects the indirect estimate of equivalent 238U concentration. In this work the AGRS method is used for the first time for quantifying the presence of 222Rn in the atmosphere and assessing its vertical profile. High statistics radiometric data acquired during an offshore survey are fitted as a superposition of a constant component due to the experimental setup background radioactivity plus a height dependent contribution due to cosmic radiation and atmospheric 222Rn. The refined statistical analysis provides not only a conclusive evidence of AGRS 222Rn detection but also a (0.96 ± 0.07) Bq/m3 222Rn concentration and a (1318 ± 22) m atmospheric layer depth fully compatible with literature data.
Radon and NO2 levels and related environmental factors in 100 underground subway platforms over two-year period.

PubMed

Hwang, Sung Ho; Park, Jae Bum; Park, Wha Me

2018-01-01

In this study, the environmental factors that affect radon (Rn) and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) levels in subway-station underground platforms are evaluated, and the outdoor NO 2 levels are compared with those obtained for the underground platforms. The Rn and NO 2 levels from May 2013 to September 2015 are determined for lines 1-4 of the Seoul Metro, via calculation of the arithmetic means of the Rn and NO 2 levels with their standard deviations (SDs). The underground Rn levels in 2013 are found to be significantly higher than those recorded in 2015 for the Seoul Metro. In addition, the Rn levels are related to the station depth and construction year. Further, the underground NO 2 levels are shown to be significantly higher than the outdoor levels for all four Seoul Metro subway lines. The Rn levels are also found to vary significantly between months, and are shown to increase gradually with depth from 8 to 20 m. The Rn levels are also higher for stations constructed in the 1980s. Therefore, stricter monitoring of Rn level may be required for stations constructed in the 1980s and/or having platform depths within the 8-20 m range. Island-type platform stations based on granite areas may also require careful attention. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Levels of naturally occurring gamma radiation measured in British homes and their prediction in particular residences.

PubMed

Kendall, G M; Wakeford, R; Athanson, M; Vincent, T J; Carter, E J; McColl, N P; Little, M P

2016-03-01

Gamma radiation from natural sources (including directly ionising cosmic rays) is an important component of background radiation. In the present paper, indoor measurements of naturally occurring gamma rays that were undertaken as part of the UK Childhood Cancer Study are summarised, and it is shown that these are broadly compatible with an earlier UK National Survey. The distribution of indoor gamma-ray dose rates in Great Britain is approximately normal with mean 96 nGy/h and standard deviation 23 nGy/h. Directly ionising cosmic rays contribute about one-third of the total. The expanded dataset allows a more detailed description than previously of indoor gamma-ray exposures and in particular their geographical variation. Various strategies for predicting indoor natural background gamma-ray dose rates were explored. In the first of these, a geostatistical model was fitted, which assumes an underlying geologically determined spatial variation, superimposed on which is a Gaussian stochastic process with Matérn correlation structure that models the observed tendency of dose rates in neighbouring houses to correlate. In the second approach, a number of dose-rate interpolation measures were first derived, based on averages over geologically or administratively defined areas or using distance-weighted averages of measurements at nearest-neighbour points. Linear regression was then used to derive an optimal linear combination of these interpolation measures. The predictive performances of the two models were compared via cross-validation, using a randomly selected 70 % of the data to fit the models and the remaining 30 % to test them. The mean square error (MSE) of the linear-regression model was lower than that of the Gaussian-Matérn model (MSE 378 and 411, respectively). The predictive performance of the two candidate models was also evaluated via simulation; the OLS model performs significantly better than the Gaussian-Matérn model.
Pediatric nurse practitioners: influences on career choice.

PubMed

Freed, Gary L; Dunham, Kelly M; Martyn, Kristy; Martin, Jean; Moran, Lauren M; Spera, Laura

2014-01-01

The demand for hiring pediatric nurse practitioners (PNPs) is strong. However, the number of newly educated PNPs has remained relatively flat during the past several years. Understanding the rationale and timing for the decision to pursue this profession is essential to having a positive impact on increasing the future workforce. A mail survey of all new PNPs certified between January 2009 and July 2011 (N = 1040) was conducted. The response rate was 79.9%. Nearly half of all respondents (45%, N = 314) reported that they work in outpatient general pediatrics, 26% (N = 184) in outpatient subspecialty pediatrics, and 22% (N = 152) in inpatient settings. More than one third (36%, N = 253) spend most of their time in a private practice. Forty percent (N = 307) reported that they decided to pursue education as an advanced practice nurse while in practice as a registered nurse (RN), and 38% (N = 289) made the decision before pursuing RN education. Efforts to increase the PNP pipeline will need to be directed both to students during their RN education and to creating opportunities for current RNs to pursue advanced practice nurse education that is focused on children. Copyright © 2014 National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.
Subcutaneous bioavailability of therapeutic antibodies as a function of FcRn binding affinity in mice

PubMed Central

Meng, Y Gloria; Hoyte, Kwame; Lutman, Jeff; Lu, Yanmei; Iyer, Suhasini; DeForge, Laura E; Theil, Frank-Peter; Fielder, Paul J; Prabhu, Saileta

2012-01-01

The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) plays an important and well-known role in immunoglobulin G (IgG) catabolism; however, its role in the disposition of IgG after subcutaneous (SC) administration, including bioavailability, is relatively unknown. To examine the potential effect of FcRn on IgG SC bioavailability, we engineered three anti-amyloid β monoclonal antibody (mAb) reverse chimeric mouse IgG2a (mIgG2a) Fc variants (I253A.H435A, N434H and N434Y) with different binding affinities to mouse FcRn (mFcRn) and compared their SC bioavailability to that of the wild-type (WT) mAb in mice. Our results indicated that the SC bioavailability of mIgG2a was affected by mFcRn-binding affinity. Variant I253A.H435A, which did not bind to mFcRn at either pH 6.0 or pH 7.4, had the lowest bioavailability (41.8%). Variant N434Y, which had the greatest increase in binding affinity at both pH 6.0 and pH 7.4, had comparable bioavailability to the WT antibody (86.1% vs. 76.3%), whereas Variant N434H, which had modestly increased binding affinity at pH 6.0 to mFcRn and affinity comparable to the WT antibody at pH 7.4, had the highest bioavailability (94.7%). A semi-mechanism-based pharmacokinetic model, which described well the observed data with the WT antibody and variant I253A.H435A, is consistent with the hypothesis that the decreased bioavailability of variant I253A.H435A was due to loss of the FcRn-mediated protection from catabolism at the absorption site. Together, these data demonstrate that FcRn plays an important role in SC bioavailability of therapeutic IgG antibodies. PMID:22327433
Calibration of electret-based integral radon monitors using NIST polyethylene-encapsulated {sup 226}Ra/{sup 222}Rn emanation (PERE) standards

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Colle, R.; Hutchinson, J.M.R.; Kotrappa, P.

1995-11-01

The recently developed {sup 222}Rn emanation standards that are based on polyethylene-encapsulated {sup 226}Ra solutions were employed for a first field-measurement application test to demonstrate their efficacy in calibrating passive integral radon monitors. The performance of the capsules was evaluated with respect to the calibration needs of electret ionization chambers (E-PERM{reg_sign}, Rad Elec Inc.). The encapsulated standards emanate well-characterized and known quantities of {sup 222}Rn, and were used in two different-sized, relatively-small, accumulation vessels (about 3.6 L and 10 L) which also contained the deployed electret monitors under test. Calculated integral {sup 222}Rn activities from the capsules over various accumulationmore » times were compared to the averaged electret responses. Evaluations were made with four encapsulated standards ranging in {sup 226}Ra activity from approximately 15 Bq to 540 Bq (with {sup 222}Rn emanation fractions of 0.888); over accumulation times from 1 d to 33 d; and with four different types of E-PERM detectors that were independently calibrated. The ratio of the electret chamber response E{sub Rn} to the integral {sup 222}Rn activity I{sub Rn} was constant (within statistical variations) over the variables of the specific capsule used, the accumulation volume, accumulation time, and detector type. The results clearly demonstrated the practicality and suitability of the encapsulated standards for providing a simple and readily-available calibration for those measurement applications. However, the mean ratio E{sub Rn}/I{sub Rn} was approximately 0.91, suggesting a possible systematic bias in the extant E-PERM calibrations. This 9% systematic difference was verified by an independent test of the E-PERM calibration based on measurements with the NIST radon-in-water standard generator.« less
Systematic Review: Bridging the Gap in RPN-to-RN Transitions.

PubMed

Suva, Grace; Sager, Shelley; Mina, Elaine Santa; Sinclair, Nancy; Lloyd, Monique; Bajnok, Irmajean; Xiao, Sarah

2015-07-01

To review the evidence examining the influences of successful education and professional role transition for registered practical nurses (RPNs) pursuing a baccalaureate degree in nursing (BScN) and registered nurse (RN) licensure through RPN-to-RN bridging programs. Systematic review of papers published between 1995 and 2014 that evaluated students' education and professional role transitions from RPN to RN. Thirty-nine papers were selected that observed or studied the change or transition in designation from RPN to RN, or its equivalent, through bridging programs and analyzed thematically according to Meleis, Sawyer, Im, Hilfinger Messias, and Schumacher's transition model. Personal, community, and social conditions related to preparation for entry, program enrolment, and postgraduate clinical integration influence successful education and professional role transitions for RPN-to-RN bridging students. Providing key transition supports may enhance the potential for successful student transition into and throughout a bridging program, but further research is necessary to enhance this understanding and to recommend best practices for optimizing students' success. The evidence from this review identifies facilitators and barriers to successful education and professional role transition for RPN-to-RN bridging students, and identifies important considerations for future research. © 2015 Sigma Theta Tau International.
Isotropic probability measures in infinite dimensional spaces: Inverse problems/prior information/stochastic inversion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Backus, George

1987-01-01

Let R be the real numbers, R(n) the linear space of all real n-tuples, and R(infinity) the linear space of all infinite real sequences x = (x sub 1, x sub 2,...). Let P sub n :R(infinity) approaches R(n) be the projection operator with P sub n (x) = (x sub 1,...,x sub n). Let p(infinity) be a probability measure on the smallest sigma-ring of subsets of R(infinity) which includes all of the cylinder sets P sub n(-1) (B sub n), where B sub n is an arbitrary Borel subset of R(n). Let p sub n be the marginal distribution of p(infinity) on R(n), so p sub n(B sub n) = p(infinity)(P sub n to the -1(B sub n)) for each B sub n. A measure on R(n) is isotropic if it is invariant under all orthogonal transformations of R(n). All members of the set of all isotropic probability distributions on R(n) are described. The result calls into question both stochastic inversion and Bayesian inference, as currently used in many geophysical inverse problems.

Antiretroviral therapy-induced mitochondrial toxicity: potential mechanisms beyond polymerase-γ inhibition.

PubMed

Selvaraj, S; Ghebremichael, M; Li, M; Foli, Y; Langs-Barlow, A; Ogbuagu, A; Barakat, L; Tubridy, E; Edifor, R; Lam, W; Cheng, Y-C; Paintsil, E

2014-07-01

We hypothesized that competition between nucleotide reverse-transcriptase inhibitor triphosphate and endogenous deoxyribonucleotide triphosphate (dNTP) may lead to depletion of dNTP pools and mitochondrial dysfunction independent of polymerase-γ (pol-γ) inhibition. We collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 75 adults (25 cases: HIV-infected patients with mitochondrial toxicity, 25 HIV-infected positive controls, and 25 HIV-negative controls). We observed statistically significant individual and group differences in ribonucleotide (RN) and deoxyribonucleotide (dRN) pools. The median values for the RN pools were 10,062 (interquartile range (IQR): 7,090-12,590), 4,360 (IQR: 3,058-6,838), and 2,968 (IQR: 2,538-4,436) pmol/10(6) cells for negative controls, positive controls, and cases, respectively. Cases had significantly higher absolute mitochondrial DNA copy number as compared with negative controls (P < 0.05). Moreover, cases had significantly higher expression levels of pol-γ, nucleotide transporters, cellular kinases, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding cassette (ABC) proteins as compared with controls. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) perturbs RN and dRN pools. Depletion of RN and dRN pools may be associated with ART-induced mitochondrial toxicity independent of pol-γ inhibition.
Background radiation: natural and man-made.

PubMed

Thorne, M C

2003-03-01

A brief overview and comparison is given of dose rates arising from natural background radiation and the fallout from atmospheric testing of nuclear weapons. Although there are considerable spatial variations in exposure to natural background radiation, it is useful to give estimates of worldwide average overall exposures from the various components of that background. Cosmic-ray secondaries of low linear energy transfer (LET), mainly muons and photons, deliver about 280 microSv a(-1). Cosmic-ray neutrons deliver about another 100 microSv a(-1). These low- and high-LET exposures are relatively uniform to the whole body. The effective dose rate from cosmogenic radionuclides is dominated by the contribution of 12 microSv a(-1) from 14C. This is due to relatively uniform irradiation of all organs and tissues from low-energy beta particles. Primordial radionuclides and their progeny (principally the 238U and 232Th series, and 40K) contribute about 480 microSv a(-1) of effective dose by external irradiation. This is relatively uniform photon irradiation of the whole body. Internally incorporated 40K contributes a further 165 microSv a(-1) of effective dose in adults, mainly from beta particles, but with a significant gamma component. Equivalent doses from 40K are somewhat higher in muscle than other soft tissues, but the distinction is less than a factor of three. Uranium and thorium series radionuclides give rise to an average effective dose rate of around 120 microSv a(-1). This includes a major alpha particle component, and exposures of radiosensitive tissues in lung, liver, kidney and the skeleton are recognised as important contributors to effective dose. Overall, these various sources give a worldwide average effective dose rate of about 1160 microSv a(-1). Exposure to 222Rn, 220Rn and their short-lived progeny has to be considered separately. This is very variable both within and between countries. For 222Rn and its progeny, a worldwide average effective dose rate is about 1105 microSv a(-1). For 220Rn and its progeny, the corresponding value is 91 microSv a(-1). In both cases, the effective dose is mainly due to a particle irradiation of the bronchial tissues of the lungs. Overall, the worldwide average effective dose rate from natural background is about 2400 microSv a(-1) or 2.4 mSv a(-1). For comparison, worldwide average effective dose rates from weapons fallout peaked at 113 microSv a(-1) (about 5% of natural background) in 1963 and have since fallen to about 5.5 microSv a(-1) (about 0.2% of natural background). These values perhaps serve to emphasise that even gross insults to the natural environment from anthropogenic releases of radioactive materials are likely to be of limited significance when set in the context of the ambient radioactive environment within which all organisms, including humans, have developed.
Comparison of clinical efficacy among remifentanil, nicardipine, and remifentanil plus nicardipine continuous infusion for hypotensive anesthesia during arthroscopic shoulder surgery.

PubMed

Kim, Joon Yub; Song, Seong Hun; Cho, Jae Ho; Cho, Hyung Rae

2017-01-01

Hypotensive anesthesia is crucial during arthroscopic shoulder surgery to reduce bleeding and allow for clear visibility. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical efficacy of continuous infusion of remifentanil, nicardipine, and remifentanil plus nicardipine to control hypotensive anesthesia in arthroscopic shoulder surgery. For this study, we enrolled 45 consecutive patients who were scheduled to have arthroscopic rotator cuff repair surgery and randomly allocated them into remifentanil (group R, n = 15), nicardipine (group N, n = 15), and remifentanil plus nicardipine (group RN, n = 15) groups. During the surgeries, these drugs were administered with continuous infusion. We analyzed the mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate during surgery, stay time in the recovery room, visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, use of antiemetics in the recovery room, and postoperative blood urea nitrogen and creatinine changes. The VAS score in the recovery room was higher for group R (mean 5.6, SD 1.4) than for groups N (mean 3.9, SD 0.9) and RN (mean 4.0, SD 1.1; p = 0.000). There were no statistical differences regarding other clinical variables among the three groups (all p > 0.05) except for MAP at 120 min of surgery between groups N and RN (N: 84.67 (SD 10.7) mmHg, RN: 65.4 (SD 9.2) mmHg, p = 0.027). The continuous infusion of remifentanil plus nicardipine appeared to be advantageous for maintaining hypotensive anesthesia until 120 min of arthroscopic shoulder surgery without rebound pain in a postanesthesia care unit.
Measurement and reduction of low-level radon background in the KATRIN experiment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fränkle, F. M.

The KArlsruhe TRItium Neutrino (KATRIN) experiment is a next generation, model independent, large scale experiment to determine the mass of the electron anti-neutrino by investigating the kinematics of tritium beta decay with a sensitivity of 200 meV/c{sup 2}. The measurement setup consists of a high luminosity windowless gaseous molecular tritium source (WGTS), a differential and cryogenic pumped electron transport and tritium retention section, a tandem spectrometer section (pre-spectrometer and main spectrometer) for energy analysis, followed by a detector system for counting transmitted beta decay electrons. Measurements performed at the KATRIN pre-spectrometer test setup showed that the decay of radon (Rn)more » atoms in the volume of the KATRIN spectrometers is a major background source. Rn atoms from low-level radon emanation of materials inside the vacuum region of the KATRIN spectrometers are able to penetrate deep into the magnetic flux tube so that the alpha decay of Rn contributes to the background. Of particular importance are electrons emitted in processes accompanying the Rn alpha decay, such as shake-off, internal conversion of excited levels in the Rn daughter atoms and Auger electrons. Lowenergy electrons (< 100 eV) directly contribute to the background in the signal region. High-energy electrons can be stored magnetically inside the volume of the spectrometer and are able to create thousands of secondary electrons via subsequent ionization processes with residual gas molecules. In order to reduce the Rn induced background different active and passive counter measures were developed and tested. This proceeding will give an overview on Rn sources within the KATRIN spectrometer, describes how Rn decays inside the spectrometer produce background events at the detector and presents different counter measures to reduce the Rn induced background.« less
Measurement and reduction of low-level radon background in the KATRIN experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fränkle, F. M.

2013-08-01

The KArlsruhe TRItium Neutrino (KATRIN) experiment is a next generation, model independent, large scale experiment to determine the mass of the electron anti-neutrino by investigating the kinematics of tritium beta decay with a sensitivity of 200 meV/c2. The measurement setup consists of a high luminosity windowless gaseous molecular tritium source (WGTS), a differential and cryogenic pumped electron transport and tritium retention section, a tandem spectrometer section (pre-spectrometer and main spectrometer) for energy analysis, followed by a detector system for counting transmitted beta decay electrons. Measurements performed at the KATRIN pre-spectrometer test setup showed that the decay of radon (Rn) atoms in the volume of the KATRIN spectrometers is a major background source. Rn atoms from low-level radon emanation of materials inside the vacuum region of the KATRIN spectrometers are able to penetrate deep into the magnetic flux tube so that the alpha decay of Rn contributes to the background. Of particular importance are electrons emitted in processes accompanying the Rn alpha decay, such as shake-off, internal conversion of excited levels in the Rn daughter atoms and Auger electrons. Lowenergy electrons (< 100 eV) directly contribute to the background in the signal region. High-energy electrons can be stored magnetically inside the volume of the spectrometer and are able to create thousands of secondary electrons via subsequent ionization processes with residual gas molecules. In order to reduce the Rn induced background different active and passive counter measures were developed and tested. This proceeding will give an overview on Rn sources within the KATRIN spectrometer, describes how Rn decays inside the spectrometer produce background events at the detector and presents different counter measures to reduce the Rn induced background.
Development of an Anisotropic Geological-Based Land Use Regression and Bayesian Maximum Entropy Model for Estimating Groundwater Radon across Northing Carolina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Messier, K. P.; Serre, M. L.

2015-12-01

Radon (222Rn) is a naturally occurring chemically inert, colorless, and odorless radioactive gas produced from the decay of uranium (238U), which is ubiquitous in rocks and soils worldwide. Exposure to 222Rn is likely the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking via inhalation; however, exposure through untreated groundwater is also a contributing factor to both inhalation and ingestion routes. A land use regression (LUR) model for groundwater 222Rn with anisotropic geological and 238U based explanatory variables is developed, which helps elucidate the factors contributing to elevated 222Rn across North Carolina. Geological and uranium based variables are constructed in elliptical buffers surrounding each observation such that they capture the lateral geometric anisotropy present in groundwater 222Rn. Moreover, geological features are defined at three different geological spatial scales to allow the model to distinguish between large area and small area effects of geology on groundwater 222Rn. The LUR is also integrated into the Bayesian Maximum Entropy (BME) geostatistical framework to increase accuracy and produce a point-level LUR-BME model of groundwater 222Rn across North Carolina including prediction uncertainty. The LUR-BME model of groundwater 222Rn results in a leave-one out cross-validation of 0.46 (Pearson correlation coefficient= 0.68), effectively predicting within the spatial covariance range. Modeled results of 222Rn concentrations show variability among Intrusive Felsic geological formations likely due to average bedrock 238U defined on the basis of overlying stream-sediment 238U concentrations that is a widely distributed consistently analyzed point-source data.
Characterization and screening of IgG binding to the neonatal Fc receptor

PubMed Central

Neuber, Tobias; Frese, Katrin; Jaehrling, Jan; Jäger, Sebastian; Daubert, Daniela; Felderer, Karin; Linnemann, Mechthild; Höhne, Anne; Kaden, Stefan; Kölln, Johanna; Tiller, Thomas; Brocks, Bodo; Ostendorp, Ralf; Pabst, Stefan

2014-01-01

The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) protects immunoglobulin G (IgG) from degradation and increases the serum half-life of IgG, thereby contributing to a higher concentration of IgG in the serum. Because altered FcRn binding may result in a reduced or prolonged half-life of IgG molecules, it is advisable to characterize Fc receptor binding of therapeutic antibody lead candidates prior to the start of pre-clinical and clinical studies. In this study, we characterized the interactions between FcRn of different species (human, cynomolgus monkey, mouse and rat) and nine IgG molecules from different species and isotypes with common variable heavy (VH) and variable light chain (VL) domains. Binding was analyzed at acidic and neutral pH using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and biolayer interferometry (BLI). Furthermore, we transferred the well-accepted, but low throughput SPR-based method for FcRn binding characterization to the BLI-based Octet platform to enable a higher sample throughput allowing the characterization of FcRn binding already during early drug discovery phase. We showed that the BLI-based approach is fit-for-purpose and capable of discriminating between IgG molecules with significant differences in FcRn binding affinities. Using this high-throughput approach we investigated FcRn binding of 36 IgG molecules that represented all VH/VL region combinations available in the fully human, recombinant antibody library Ylanthia®. Our results clearly showed normal FcRn binding profiles for all samples. Hence, the variations among the framework parts, complementarity-determining region (CDR) 1 and CDR2 of the fragment antigen binding (Fab) domain did not significantly change FcRn binding. PMID:24802048
Quantitative cumulative biodistribution of antibodies in mice: effect of modulating binding affinity to the neonatal Fc receptor.

PubMed

Yip, Victor; Palma, Enzo; Tesar, Devin B; Mundo, Eduardo E; Bumbaca, Daniela; Torres, Elizabeth K; Reyes, Noe A; Shen, Ben Q; Fielder, Paul J; Prabhu, Saileta; Khawli, Leslie A; Boswell, C Andrew

2014-01-01

The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) plays an important and well-known role in antibody recycling in endothelial and hematopoietic cells and thus it influences the systemic pharmacokinetics (PK) of immunoglobulin G (IgG). However, considerably less is known about FcRn's role in the metabolism of IgG within individual tissues after intravenous administration. To elucidate the organ distribution and gain insight into the metabolism of humanized IgG1 antibodies with different binding affinities FcRn, comparative biodistribution studies in normal CD-1 mice were conducted. Here, we generated variants of herpes simplex virus glycoprotein D-specific antibody (humanized anti-gD) with increased and decreased FcRn binding affinity by genetic engineering without affecting antigen specificity. These antibodies were expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cell lines, purified and paired radiolabeled with iodine-125 and indium-111. Equal amounts of I-125-labeled and In-111-labeled antibodies were mixed and intravenously administered into mice at 5 mg/kg. This approach allowed us to measure both the real-time IgG uptake (I-125) and cumulative uptake of IgG and catabolites (In-111) in individual tissues up to 1 week post-injection. The PK and distribution of the wild-type IgG and the variant with enhanced binding for FcRn were largely similar to each other, but vastly different for the rapidly cleared low-FcRn-binding variant. Uptake in individual tissues varied across time, FcRn binding affinity, and radiolabeling method. The liver and spleen emerged as the most concentrated sites of IgG catabolism in the absence of FcRn protection. These data provide an increased understanding of FcRn's role in antibody PK and catabolism at the tissue level.
Combined glyco- and protein-Fc engineering simultaneously enhance cytotoxicity and half-life of a therapeutic antibody.

PubMed

Monnet, Céline; Jorieux, Sylvie; Souyris, Nathalie; Zaki, Ouafa; Jacquet, Alexandra; Fournier, Nathalie; Crozet, Fabien; de Romeuf, Christophe; Bouayadi, Khalil; Urbain, Rémi; Behrens, Christian K; Mondon, Philippe; Fontayne, Alexandre

2014-01-01

While glyco-engineered monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with improved antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) are reaching the market, extensive efforts have also been made to improve their pharmacokinetic properties to generate biologically superior molecules. Most therapeutic mAbs are human or humanized IgG molecules whose half-life is dependent on the neonatal Fc receptor FcRn. FcRn reduces IgG catabolism by binding to the Fc domain of endocytosed IgG in acidic lysosomal compartments, allowing them to be recycled into the blood. Fc-engineered mAbs with increased FcRn affinity resulted in longer in vivo half-life in animal models, but also in healthy humans. These Fc-engineered mAbs were obtained by alanine scanning, directed mutagenesis or in silico approach of the FcRn binding site. In our approach, we applied a random mutagenesis technology (MutaGen™) to generate mutations evenly distributed over the whole Fc sequence of human IgG1. IgG variants with improved FcRn-binding were then isolated from these Fc-libraries using a pH-dependent phage display selection process. Two successive rounds of mutagenesis and selection were performed to identify several mutations that dramatically improve FcRn binding. Notably, many of these mutations were unpredictable by rational design as they were located distantly from the FcRn binding site, validating our random molecular approach. When produced on the EMABling(®) platform allowing effector function increase, our IgG variants retained both higher ADCC and higher FcRn binding. Moreover, these IgG variants exhibited longer half-life in human FcRn transgenic mice. These results clearly demonstrate that glyco-engineering to improve cytotoxicity and protein-engineering to increase half-life can be combined to further optimize therapeutic mAbs.
Exploring heterogeneities in a stressed alluvial aquifer using 222Rn concentrations in groundwater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hillman, C. A.

2016-12-01

Understanding aquifer characteristics is important for determining the nature of groundwater flow and contaminant transport in the subsurface. Even if an alluvial aquifer can be considered homogeneous on a macro scale, groundwater models often fail to account for local heterogeneities in aquifer porosity and hydraulic conductivity. This study explores the use of 222Rn concentrations in groundwater in discerning heterogeneities in alluvial aquifer textures. The utility of 222Rn for studying the subsurface is based on its ubiquity in most rock types, its short half life (3.8 days) and its non-reactive nature. 226Ra, the direct progenitor, supplies a constant source of 222Rn to pore water and the rapid decay of 222Rn results in secular equilibrium in pore water in about 20 days. Irregularities in 222Rn concentrations throughout the aquifer may indicate differences in emanation source or emanation strength of the matrix, which is inversely related to porosity (i.e., the surface area within the recoil range of 222Rn). For this study, groundwater samples were collected from the Palo Verde Valley, a floodplain aquifer along the Colorado River in Riverside County, California. Samples were collected between 2007 and 2014 and 222Rn concentrations range from 160 to 1470 pCi/L with most samples falling between 250 and 1050 pCi/L. There is a strong positive correlation between well depth and 222Rn concentration indicating an increase in fine grained units (silts and clays) with depth. Laterally, a cluster of higher values occurs in the northeast quadrant of the study area adjacent to the river. Among the cluster of high values, though, is a sample with only 160 pCi/L possibly representing the presence of coarse-grained channel deposits.
RN jurisdiction over nursing care systems in nursing homes: application of latent class analysis

PubMed Central

Corazzini, Kirsten N.; Anderson, Ruth A.; Mueller, Christine; Thorpe, Joshua M.; McConnell, Eleanor S.

2015-01-01

Background In the context of declining registered nurse (RN) staffing levels in nursing homes, professional nursing jurisdiction over nursing care systems may erode. Objectives The purpose of this study is to develop a typology of professional nursing jurisdiction in nursing homes in relation to characteristics of RN staffing, drawing upon Abbott's (1988) tasks and jurisdictions framework. Method The study was a cross-sectional, observational study using the 2004 National Nursing Home Survey (N=1,120 nursing homes). Latent class analysis tested whether RN staffing indicators differentiated facilities in a typology of RN jurisdiction, and compared classes on key organizational environment characteristics. Multiple logistic regression analysis related the emergent classes to presence or absence of specialty care programs in 8 clinical areas. Results Three classes of capacity for jurisdiction were identified, including ‘low capacity’ (41% of homes) with low probabilities of having any indicators of RN jurisdiction, ‘mixed capacity’ (26% of homes) with moderate to high probabilities of having higher RN education and staffing levels, and ‘high capacity’ (32% of homes) with moderate to high probabilities of having almost all indicators of RN jurisdiction. ‘High capacity’ homes were more likely to have specialty care programs relative to ‘low capacity’ homes; such homes were less likely to be chain-owned, and more likely to be larger, provide higher technical levels of patient care, have unionized nursing assistants, have a lower ratio of LPNs to RNs, and a higher education level of the administrator. Discussion Findings provide preliminary support for the theoretical framework as a starting point to move beyond extensive reliance on staffing levels and mix as indicators of quality. Further, findings indicate the importance of RN specialty certification. PMID:22166907
Neonatal Fc receptor for IgG (FcRn) regulates cross-presentation of IgG immune complexes by CD8−CD11b+ dendritic cells

PubMed Central

Baker, Kristi; Qiao, Shuo-Wang; Kuo, Timothy T.; Aveson, Victoria G.; Platzer, Barbara; Andersen, Jan-Terje; Sandlie, Inger; Chen, Zhangguo; de Haar, Colin; Lencer, Wayne I.; Fiebiger, Edda; Blumberg, Richard S.

2011-01-01

Cross-presentation of IgG-containing immune complexes (ICs) is an important means by which dendritic cells (DCs) activate CD8+ T cells, yet it proceeds by an incompletely understood mechanism. We show that monocyte-derived CD8−CD11b+ DCs require the neonatal Fc receptor for IgG (FcRn) to conduct cross-presentation of IgG ICs. Consequently, in the absence of FcRn, Fcγ receptor (FcγR)-mediated antigen uptake fails to initiate cross-presentation. FcRn is shown to regulate the intracellular sorting of IgG ICs to the proper destination for such cross-presentation to occur. We demonstrate that FcRn traps antigen and protects it from degradation within an acidic loading compartment in association with the rapid recruitment of key components of the phagosome-to-cytosol cross-presentation machinery. This unique mechanism thus enables cross-presentation to evolve from an atypically acidic loading compartment. FcRn-driven cross-presentation is further shown to control cross-priming of CD8+ T-cell responses in vivo such that during chronic inflammation, FcRn deficiency results in inadequate induction of CD8+ T cells. These studies thus demonstrate that cross-presentation in CD8−CD11b+ DCs requires a two-step mechanism that involves FcγR-mediated internalization and FcRn-directed intracellular sorting of IgG ICs. Given the centrality of FcRn in controlling cross-presentation, these studies lay the foundation for a unique means to therapeutically manipulate CD8+ T-cell responses. PMID:21628593
222Rn progeny surface deposition and resuspension--residential materials.

PubMed

Leonard, B E

1995-07-01

The radiological hazard of radon gas to occupants in residential environments is from the particulate progeny 218Po, 214Pb, 214Bi, and 214Po, rather than 222Rn itself. Attachment to aerosols, plateout, and resuspension impact on the progeny airborne concentrations. Plateout rate and resuspension factors were measured for air change (ventilation) rates, 0.01 to 1.0 h-1, in a 0.28 m3 test chamber for interior residential materials of wallboard, drapery, carpet, ceiling tile, and concrete, and from 0.05 to 2.5 h-i for hardwood and glass. The overall accuracy of the plateout rate values is estimated to be +/- 13% standard deviation. For the different materials, the plateout rates for 218Po progeny varied by a factor of nearly six. Drapery gave the largest plateout rates. Resuspension rate factors, R, were measured for hardwood, wallboard, drapery, carpet, and glass by a new time-dependent measurement method based on the difference in buildup rate of 214Po to equilibrium caused by resuspension. Values for R obtained for hardwood, wallboard, drapery, carpet and glass were 0.31, 0.29, 0.44, 0.55, and 0.36, respectively ( +/- 30% standard deviation). All measurements were made in a continuous air conditioned interior environment maintaining temperature at 22.2 +/- 1.1 degrees C and relative humidity of 30% +/- 10%. Computations were made of equivalent plateout rates and equilibrium fractions for a standard 5 m x 5 m x 3 m high room to provide values to compare with other work.
Characterizing long-term radon concentration changes in a geothermal area for correlation with volcanic earthquakes and reservoir temperatures: A case study from Mt. Aso, southwestern Japan

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Koike, Katsuaki; Yoshinaga, Tohru; Asaue, Hisafumi

2014-04-01

The purpose of this study is to characterize in detail the temporal changes in Rn (radon-222) concentration in soil gases near fumaroles and clarify its correlation with volcanic earthquakes and temperatures in two geothermal reservoirs. Mt. Aso crater in southwest Japan, which has two reservoirs on its western side estimated by magnetotelluric survey to be at about 2 km in depth, was selected for this study. For the long-term survey, the α scintillation counter method was used weekly for 12.5 years at the three hot springs within a 2-km range. Rn concentrations were calculated using the CRAS method, a calculation method that considers radioactive equilibrium or nonequilibrium state of the soil gas. Rn concentrations generally showed similar fluctuation patterns among the sites. CRAS was used as a new indicator for evaluating the age of the soil gas. This age corresponds to the elapsed time determined from the generation of Rn based on the measurement of the numbers of atoms of Rn and its daughter 218Po at the start of measurement. In comparing the Rn data with the history of earthquakes in the Aso caldera, volcanic seismicity was identified as a major controlling factor in the sudden increase and decrease in Rn concentration as a function of age. For more precise detections of change, Rn concentrations were measured continuously at one site by pumping soil gas from a borehole and using an ionization chamber over 2.5 years. Five chemical components (He, H2, N2, CH4, and CO2) were then measured by gas chromatography at 1-week intervals. Because Rn concentrations are affected strongly by atmospheric temperatures, the residual components were obtained by subtracting the trend of the components from the original data. Chemical component data were used to estimate the temperature and pressure in the reservoir at the site; temperatures ranged from 229 to 280 °C, (average 265 °C, average pressure 80 MPa). Residual Rn concentrations showed a clear correlation with temporal changes in estimated temperature and, to a degree, with pressure. Considering the migration mechanism of Rn by molecular diffusion and advection under rapid gas upflow conditions, change in the diffusion coefficient is regarded as a possible factor to have induced temporal changes in Rn concentrations in conjunction with the temperature changes in the reservoirs. In addition, the increase of the amount of degassed Rn from the advective-convective hydrothermal fluids, which is associated with wall-rock fracturing, is another important factor. Earthquakes likely enhance the permeability of a reservoir by generating fractures, which in turn can cause an increase in the reservoir temperature, upflow fluid velocity, and gas flux. This provides one possible interpretation for the significant correlation of Rn concentrations with earthquakes.
Indoor 222Rn measurement and hazards indices in houses of Al-Najaf province - Iraq

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ebrahiem, Sameera A.; Falih, Esraa H.; Mahdi, Hind Abdul Majeed; Shaban, Auday H.

2018-05-01

In this paper, the measurement the 222Rn concentrations for different houses in ten reigns for Al-Najaf province, 222Rn concentrations were measurement by using RAD-7 detector. The results indicate that, the less value of 222Rn concentrations was found in Al-Motanaby region which was (88 Bq/m3), while the highest value of 222Rn concentrations was found in Al-Forat region which was (193 Bq/m3), with average value of (143.4±27.6 Bq/m3), all the results are less than the recommended range from value of (200-300 Bq/m3). The radiation hazard indices [PAEC, EP, AED and CPPP] also found to be less than the global limit
Ion beam analyses of radionuclide migration in heterogeneous rocks

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Alonso, Ursula; Missana, Tiziana; Garcia-Gutierrez, Miguel

2013-07-18

The migration of radionuclides (RN) in the environment is a topic of general interest, for its implications on public health, and it is an issue for the long-term safety studies of deep geological repositories (DGR) for high-level radioactive waste. The role played by colloids on RN migration is also of great concern. Diffusion and sorption are fundamental mechanisms controlling RN migration in rocks and many experimental approaches are applied to determine transport parameters for low sorbing RN in homogeneous rocks. However, it is difficult to obtain relevant data for high sorbing RN or colloids, for which diffusion lengths are extremelymore » short, or within heterogeneous rocks, where transport might be different in different minerals. The ion beam techniques Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS) and micro-Particle Induced X-Ray Emission ({mu}PIXE), rarely applied in the field, were selected for their micro-analytical potential to study RN diffusion and surface retention within heterogeneous rocks. Main achievements obtained during last 12 years are highlighted.« less
Loss of Magnet® Designation and Changes in RN Work Engagement: A Report on How 1 Hospital's Culture Changed Over Time.

PubMed

Wonder, Amy Hagedorn; York, Jacki; Jackson, Kathryn L; Sluys, Teresa D

2017-10-01

The aim of this study was to examine the loss of Magnet® designation and how RNs' work engagement changed at 1 community hospital. The importance of RN work engagement to promote quality and safety is widely recognized in healthcare. Ongoing consistent research is critical to determine what organizational structures are needed to support RN work engagement. This was a comparative, descriptive, correlational study of RN cohorts at 2 time points: time 1 (T1), in 2011 during Magnet designation (n = 119), and time 2 (T2), in 2016, approximately 2 years after the loss of Magnet designation (n = 140). The cohort of RNs at T2 reported significantly lower work engagement in the time period after the loss of Magnet designation when compared with the RN cohort at T1 during Magnet designation (P ≤ .0002). These results provide insights for clinical leaders striving to support a culture of RN work engagement and quality care.
Updated estimates of HAL n and RN- effects on pork quality: fresh and processed loin and ham.

PubMed

Cherel, P; Glénisson, J; Figwer, P; Pires, J; Damon, M; Franck, M; Le Roy, P

2010-12-01

A 1000-pig F2 intercross QTL detection experimental population was generated using two commercial sire lines. Independent carriers of HAL n and RN- mutations (10% and 14%, respectively) were included in this population as control genotypes. The effects of HAL n and RN- heterozygous genotypes on fresh and transformed loins and hams were estimated using a mixed model methodology. The results document the unfavorable effects of both mutations on meat quality. Smaller effects of HAL Nn genotype compared to HAL nn or RN-rn+ genotypes were estimated. Interestingly, effects of HAL Nn genotype on meat pH and loin color could be insignificant at 24-h postmortem, but translate into higher water losses on storage and cooking, and result in tougher cooked loin. Using the same methodology, significant effects of the PRKAG3 (RN) I199 allele on ultimate pH values but not on glycolytic potential were observed. Copyright © 2010 The American Meat Science Association. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Comparative performance of short-term diffusion barrier charcoal canisters and long-term alpha-track monitors for indoor 222Rn measurements.

PubMed

Martz, D E; George, J L; Langner, G H

1991-04-01

The accuracy and precision of indoor 222Rn measurements obtained with the use of diffusion barrier charcoal canisters (DBCC) under actual field conditions were determined by comparing the integrated average of 26 successive 7-d exposures of DBCC in each of 16 occupied residences over a 6-mo period with simultaneous measurements using four types of commercially available alpha-track monitors (ATM) and one type of scintillation chamber continuous 222Rn monitor. The results suggest that properly calibrated DBCCs provide very good estimates of the integrated 222Rn concentrations in residential structures over the standard 1-wk exposure period despite the occurrence of large diurnal variations in the actual 222Rn concentrations. The results also suggest that a relatively small number of 1-wk DBCC measurements at selected times throughout the calendar year would provide estimates of the annual average indoor 222Rn concentrations that compare favorably with single long-term ATM measurements.
Eighty percent by 2020: the present and future of RN-to-BSN education.

PubMed

McEwen, Melanie; Pullis, Bridgette R; White, Mary Joe; Krawtz, Susan

2013-10-01

More than 600 RN-to-BSN programs currently exist in the United States, and the numbers of programs and students are growing rapidly. This unprecedented growth is a result of several factors, including the Institute of Medicine's recommendation that 80% of RNs be BSN prepared by 2020. This survey was undertaken to explore key ideas and issues related to RN-to-BSN education to gather information on how RN-to-BSN programs are changing and to uncover concerns posited by program directors. The survey indicated that lack of standardization has resulted in significant variability in expectations and requirements among RN-to-BSN programs. Further, numerous questions need to be answered and concerns addressed to develop strategies to maintain growth, improve access, and remove barriers without sacrificing quality. Findings can be used to ensure that RN-to-BSN education prepares graduates for the future health care system and that the outcome is not just a piece of paper. Copyright 2013, SLACK Incorporated.

Statistical variability and confidence intervals for planar dose QA pass rates

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bailey, Daniel W.; Nelms, Benjamin E.; Attwood, Kristopher

Purpose: The most common metric for comparing measured to calculated dose, such as for pretreatment quality assurance of intensity-modulated photon fields, is a pass rate (%) generated using percent difference (%Diff), distance-to-agreement (DTA), or some combination of the two (e.g., gamma evaluation). For many dosimeters, the grid of analyzed points corresponds to an array with a low areal density of point detectors. In these cases, the pass rates for any given comparison criteria are not absolute but exhibit statistical variability that is a function, in part, on the detector sampling geometry. In this work, the authors analyze the statistics ofmore » various methods commonly used to calculate pass rates and propose methods for establishing confidence intervals for pass rates obtained with low-density arrays. Methods: Dose planes were acquired for 25 prostate and 79 head and neck intensity-modulated fields via diode array and electronic portal imaging device (EPID), and matching calculated dose planes were created via a commercial treatment planning system. Pass rates for each dose plane pair (both centered to the beam central axis) were calculated with several common comparison methods: %Diff/DTA composite analysis and gamma evaluation, using absolute dose comparison with both local and global normalization. Specialized software was designed to selectively sample the measured EPID response (very high data density) down to discrete points to simulate low-density measurements. The software was used to realign the simulated detector grid at many simulated positions with respect to the beam central axis, thereby altering the low-density sampled grid. Simulations were repeated with 100 positional iterations using a 1 detector/cm{sup 2} uniform grid, a 2 detector/cm{sup 2} uniform grid, and similar random detector grids. For each simulation, %/DTA composite pass rates were calculated with various %Diff/DTA criteria and for both local and global %Diff normalization techniques. Results: For the prostate and head/neck cases studied, the pass rates obtained with gamma analysis of high density dose planes were 2%-5% higher than respective %/DTA composite analysis on average (ranging as high as 11%), depending on tolerances and normalization. Meanwhile, the pass rates obtained via local normalization were 2%-12% lower than with global maximum normalization on average (ranging as high as 27%), depending on tolerances and calculation method. Repositioning of simulated low-density sampled grids leads to a distribution of possible pass rates for each measured/calculated dose plane pair. These distributions can be predicted using a binomial distribution in order to establish confidence intervals that depend largely on the sampling density and the observed pass rate (i.e., the degree of difference between measured and calculated dose). These results can be extended to apply to 3D arrays of detectors, as well. Conclusions: Dose plane QA analysis can be greatly affected by choice of calculation metric and user-defined parameters, and so all pass rates should be reported with a complete description of calculation method. Pass rates for low-density arrays are subject to statistical uncertainty (vs. the high-density pass rate), but these sampling errors can be modeled using statistical confidence intervals derived from the sampled pass rate and detector density. Thus, pass rates for low-density array measurements should be accompanied by a confidence interval indicating the uncertainty of each pass rate.« less
Test Anxiety and Academic Procrastination Among Prelicensure Nursing Students.

PubMed

Custer, Nicole

Test anxiety may cause nursing students to cope poorly with academic demands, affecting academic performance and attrition and leading to possible failure on the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN®). Test-anxious nursing students may engage academic procrastination as a coping mechanism. The Test Anxiety Inventory and the Procrastination Assessment Scale for Students were administered to 202 prelicensure nursing students from diploma, associate, and baccalaureate nursing programs in southwestern Pennsylvania. Statistically significant correlations between test anxiety and academic procrastination were found. The majority of participants reported procrastinating most on weekly reading assignments. Students with higher grade point averages exhibited less academic procrastination.
Generation and mobility of radon in soil

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rose, A.W.; Jester, W.A.; Ciolkosz, E.J.

This study has confirmed large seasonal and daily variations of Rn in soil gas, developed models for the effects of temperature and moisture on air-water Rn partition, inhibited Rn diffusion from wet soil into sparse large air-filled pores and effects of diffusion into bedrock, demonstrated that organic matter is a major host for 226Ra in soils and that organic-bound Ra largely determines the proportion of 222Rn emanated to pore space, shown that in contrast 220Rn is emanated mainly from 224Ra in Fe-oxides, detected significant disequilibrium between 226Ra and 238U in organic matter and in some recent glacial soils, demonstrated bymore » computer models that air convection driven by temperature differences is expected in moderately permeable soils on hillsides.« less
Generation and mobility of radon in soil. Technical report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rose, A.W.; Jester, W.A.; Ciolkosz, E.J.

This study has confirmed large seasonal and daily variations of Rn in soil gas, developed models for the effects of temperature and moisture on air-water Rn partition, inhibited Rn diffusion from wet soil into sparse large air-filled pores and effects of diffusion into bedrock, demonstrated that organic matter is a major host for 226Ra in soils and that organic-bound Ra largely determines the proportion of 222Rn emanated to pore space, shown that in contrast 220Rn is emanated mainly from 224Ra in Fe-oxides, detected significant disequilibrium between 226Ra and 238U in organic matter and in some recent glacial soils, demonstrated bymore » computer models that air convection driven by temperature differences is expected in moderately permeable soils on hillsides.« less
Loss of expression of the recycling receptor, FcRn, promotes tumor cell growth by increasing albumin consumption

PubMed Central

Khare, Priyanka; Schneider, Zita; Ober, Raimund J; Ward, Elizabeth Sally

2017-01-01

Tumor cells rely on high concentrations of amino acids to support their growth and proliferation. Although increased macropinocytic uptake and lysosomal degradation of the most abundant serum protein, albumin, in Ras-transformed cells can meet these demands, it is not understood how the majority of tumor cells that express wild type Ras achieve this. In the current study we reveal that the neonatal Fc receptor, FcRn, regulates tumor cell proliferation through the ability to recycle its ligand, albumin. By contrast with normal epithelial cells, we show that human FcRn is present at very low or undetectable levels in the majority of tumor cell lines analyzed. Remarkably, shRNA-mediated ablation of FcRn expression in an FcRn-positive tumor cell line results in a substantial growth increase of tumor xenografts, whereas enforced expression of this receptor by lentiviral transduction has the reverse effect. Moreover, intracellular albumin and glutamate levels are increased by the loss of FcRn-mediated recycling of albumin, combined with hypoalbuminemia in tumor-bearing mice. These studies identify a novel role for FcRn as a suppressor of tumor growth and have implications for the use of this receptor as a prognostic indicator and therapeutic target. PMID:27974681
Estimation of Groundwater Radon in North Carolina Using Land Use Regression and Bayesian Maximum Entropy.

PubMed

Messier, Kyle P; Campbell, Ted; Bradley, Philip J; Serre, Marc L

2015-08-18

Radon ((222)Rn) is a naturally occurring chemically inert, colorless, and odorless radioactive gas produced from the decay of uranium ((238)U), which is ubiquitous in rocks and soils worldwide. Exposure to (222)Rn is likely the second leading cause of lung cancer after cigarette smoking via inhalation; however, exposure through untreated groundwater is also a contributing factor to both inhalation and ingestion routes. A land use regression (LUR) model for groundwater (222)Rn with anisotropic geological and (238)U based explanatory variables is developed, which helps elucidate the factors contributing to elevated (222)Rn across North Carolina. The LUR is also integrated into the Bayesian Maximum Entropy (BME) geostatistical framework to increase accuracy and produce a point-level LUR-BME model of groundwater (222)Rn across North Carolina including prediction uncertainty. The LUR-BME model of groundwater (222)Rn results in a leave-one out cross-validation r(2) of 0.46 (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.68), effectively predicting within the spatial covariance range. Modeled results of (222)Rn concentrations show variability among intrusive felsic geological formations likely due to average bedrock (238)U defined on the basis of overlying stream-sediment (238)U concentrations that is a widely distributed consistently analyzed point-source data.
The effects of RN staffing hours on nursing home quality: a two-stage model.

PubMed

Lee, Hyang Yuol; Blegen, Mary A; Harrington, Charlene

2014-03-01

Based on structure-process-outcome approach, this study examined the association of registered nurse (RN) staffing hours and five quality indicators, including two process measures (catheter use and antipsychotic drug use) and three outcome measures (pressure ulcers, urinary tract infections, and weight loss). We used data on resident assessments, RN staffing, organizational characteristics, and market factors to examine the quality of 195 nursing homes operating in a rural state of United States - Colorado. Two-stage least squares regression models were performed to address the endogenous relationships between RN staffing and the outcome-related quality indicators, and ordinary least squares regression was used for the process-related ones. This analysis focused on the relationship of RN staffing to nursing home quality indicators, controlling for organizational characteristics, resources, resident casemix, and market factors with clustering to control for geographical differences. Higher RN hours were associated with fewer pressure ulcers, but RN hours were not related to the other quality indicators. The study finding shows the importance of understanding the role of 'nurse staffing' under nursing home care, as well as the significance of associated/contextual factors with nursing home quality even in a small rural state. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Human IgG lacking effector functions demonstrate lower FcRn-binding and reduced transplacental transport.

PubMed

Stapleton, Nigel M; Armstrong-Fisher, Sylvia S; Andersen, Jan Terje; van der Schoot, C Ellen; Porter, Charlene; Page, Kenneth R; Falconer, Donald; de Haas, Masja; Williamson, Lorna M; Clark, Michael R; Vidarsson, Gestur; Armour, Kathryn L

2018-03-01

We have previously generated human IgG1 antibodies that were engineered for reduced binding to the classical Fcγ receptors (FcγRI-III) and C1q, thereby eliminating their destructive effector functions (constant region G1Δnab). In their potential use as blocking agents, favorable binding to the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) is important to preserve the long half-life typical of IgG. An ability to cross the placenta, which is also mediated, at least in part, by FcRn is desirable in some indications, such as feto-maternal alloimmune disorders. Here, we show that G1Δnab mutants retain pH-dependent binding to human FcRn but that the amino acid alterations reduce the affinity of the IgG1:FcRn interaction by 2.0-fold and 1.6-fold for the two antibodies investigated. The transport of the modified G1Δnab mutants across monolayers of human cell lines expressing FcRn was approximately 75% of the wild-type, except that no difference was observed with human umbilical vein endothelial cells. G1Δnab mutation also reduced transport in an ex vivo placenta model. In conclusion, we demonstrate that, although the G1Δnab mutations are away from the FcRn-binding site, they have long-distance effects, modulating FcRn binding and transcellular transport. Our findings have implications for the design of therapeutic human IgG with tailored effector functions. Copyright © 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.
Annual committed effective dose from olive oil (due to 238U, 232Th, and 222Rn) estimated for members of the Moroccan public from ingestion and skin application.

PubMed

Misdaq, M A; Touti, R

2012-03-01

Olive oil is traditionally refined and widely consumed by Moroccan rural populations. Uranium (238U), thorium (232Th), radon (222Rn), and thoron (220Rn) contents were measured in various locally produced olive oil samples collected in rural areas of Morocco. These radionuclides were also measured inside various bottled virgin olive oils consumed by the Moroccan populations. CR-39 and LR-115 type II solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTDs) were used. Annual committed effective doses due to 238U, 232Th, and 222Rn from the ingestion of olive oil by the members of the general public were determined. The maximum total committed effective dose due to 238U, 232Th, and 222Rn from the ingestion of olive oil by adult members of Moroccan rural populations was found equal to 5.9 µSv y-1. The influence of pollution due to building material dusts and phosphates on the radiation dose to workers from the ingestion of olive oil was investigated, and it was found that the maximum total committed effective dose due to 238U, 232Th, and 222Rn was on the order of 0.22 mSy y-1. Committed effective doses to skin due to 238U, 232Th, and 222Rn from the application of olive oil masks by rural women were evaluated. The maximum total committed effective dose to skin due to 238U, 232Th, and 222Rn was found equal to 0.07 mSy y-1 cm-2.
Method for the preparation of radon-211

DOEpatents

Meyer, Geerd-J.; Lambrecht, Richard M.

1982-01-01

A method for the production of .sup.211 Rn comprising bombarding .sup.209 Bi with .sup.7 Li particles utilizing the nuclear reaction .sup.209 Bi(.sup.7 Li,5n).sup.211 Rn. The method provides a simple spectrum from which .sup.211 Rn can be easily isolated in a highly pure condition.
The Feasibility of an Evening LPN to RN Transition Program.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Donsky, Aaron P.; Cox, Samuel C.

In an attempt to handle the shortage of registered nurses (RN's), many institutions have designed articulation programs to move licensed practical nurses (LPN's) into RN programs. Research describes LPN's as nontraditional adult learners with family responsibilities who must work full-time while in school. Many are anxious about returning to the…
Extending Serum Half-life of Albumin by Engineering Neonatal Fc Receptor (FcRn) Binding*

PubMed Central

Andersen, Jan Terje; Dalhus, Bjørn; Viuff, Dorthe; Ravn, Birgitte Thue; Gunnarsen, Kristin Støen; Plumridge, Andrew; Bunting, Karen; Antunes, Filipa; Williamson, Rebecca; Athwal, Steven; Allan, Elizabeth; Evans, Leslie; Bjørås, Magnar; Kjærulff, Søren; Sleep, Darrell; Sandlie, Inger; Cameron, Jason

2014-01-01

A major challenge for the therapeutic use of many peptides and proteins is their short circulatory half-life. Albumin has an extended serum half-life of 3 weeks because of its size and FcRn-mediated recycling that prevents intracellular degradation, properties shared with IgG antibodies. Engineering the strictly pH-dependent IgG-FcRn interaction is known to extend IgG half-life. However, this principle has not been extensively explored for albumin. We have engineered human albumin by introducing single point mutations in the C-terminal end that generated a panel of variants with greatly improved affinities for FcRn. One variant (K573P) with 12-fold improved affinity showed extended serum half-life in normal mice, mice transgenic for human FcRn, and cynomolgus monkeys. Importantly, favorable binding to FcRn was maintained when a single-chain fragment variable antibody was genetically fused to either the N- or the C-terminal end. The engineered albumin variants may be attractive for improving the serum half-life of biopharmaceuticals. PMID:24652290
Uniqueness of boundary blow-up solutions on exterior domain of RN

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, Wei; Pang, Changci

2007-06-01

In this paper, we consider the existence and uniqueness of positive solutions of the degenerate logistic type elliptic equation where N[greater-or-equal, slanted]2, D[subset of]RN is a bounded domain with smooth boundary and a(x), b(x) are continuous functions on RN with b(x)[greater-or-equal, slanted]0, b(x)[not identical with]0. We show that under rather general conditions on a(x) and b(x) for large x, there exists a unique positive solution. Our results improve the corresponding ones in [W. Dong, Y. Du, Unbounded principal eigenfunctions and the logistic equation on RN, Bull. Austral. Math. Soc. 67 (2003) 413-427] and [Y. Du, L. Ma, Logistic type equations on RN by a squeezing method involving boundary blow-up solutions, J. London Math. Soc. (2) 64 (2001) 107-124].
Relationship between internal medicine program board examination pass rates, accreditation standards, and program size.

PubMed

Falcone, John L; Gonzalo, Jed D

2014-01-19

To determine Internal Medicine residency program compliance with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education 80% pass-rate standard and the correlation between residency program size and performance on the American Board of Internal Medicine Certifying Examination. Using a cross-sectional study design from 2010-2012 American Board of Internal Medicine Certifying Examination data of all Internal Medicine residency pro-grams, comparisons were made between program pass rates to the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education pass-rate standard. To assess the correlation between program size and performance, a Spearman's rho was calculated. To evaluate program size and its relationship to the pass-rate standard, receiver operative characteristic curves were calculated. Of 372 Internal Medicine residency programs, 276 programs (74%) achieved a pass rate of =80%, surpassing the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education minimum standard. A weak correlation was found between residency program size and pass rate for the three-year period (p=0.19, p<0.001). The area underneath the receiver operative characteristic curve was 0.69 (95% Confidence Interval [0.63-0.75]), suggesting programs with less than 12 examinees/year are less likely to meet the minimum Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education pass-rate standard (sensitivity 63.8%, specificity 60.4%, positive predictive value 82.2%, p<0.001). Although a majority of Internal Medicine residency programs complied with Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education pass-rate standards, a quarter of the programs failed to meet this requirement. Program size is positively but weakly associated with American Board of Internal Medicine Certifying Examination performance, suggesting other unidentified variables significantly contribute to program performance.
Importance of neonatal FcR in regulating the serum half-life of therapeutic proteins containing the Fc domain of human IgG1: a comparative study of the affinity of monoclonal antibodies and Fc-fusion proteins to human neonatal FcR.

PubMed

Suzuki, Takuo; Ishii-Watabe, Akiko; Tada, Minoru; Kobayashi, Tetsu; Kanayasu-Toyoda, Toshie; Kawanishi, Toru; Yamaguchi, Teruhide

2010-02-15

The neonatal FcR (FcRn) binds to the Fc domain of IgG at acidic pH in the endosome and protects IgG from degradation, thereby contributing to the long serum half-life of IgG. To date, more than 20 mAb products and 5 Fc-fusion protein products have received marketing authorization approval in the United States, the European Union, or Japan. Many of these therapeutic proteins have the Fc domain of human IgG1; however, the serum half-lives differ in each protein. To elucidate the role of FcRn in the pharmacokinetics of Fc domain-containing therapeutic proteins, we evaluated the affinity of the clinically used human, humanized, chimeric, or mouse mAbs and Fc-fusion proteins to recombinant human FcRn by surface plasmon resonance analysis. The affinities of these therapeutic proteins to FcRn were found to be closely correlated with the serum half-lives reported from clinical studies, suggesting the important role of FcRn in regulating their serum half-lives. The relatively short serum half-life of Fc-fusion proteins was thought to arise from the low affinity to FcRn. The existence of some mAbs having high affinity to FcRn and a short serum half-life, however, suggested the involvement of other critical factor(s) in determining the serum half-life of such Abs. We further investigated the reason for the relatively low affinity of Fc-fusion proteins to FcRn and suggested the possibility that the receptor domain of Fc-fusion protein influences the structural environment of the FcRn binding region but not of the FcgammaRI binding region of the Fc domain.
Using radon to understand parafluvial flows and the changing locations of groundwater inflows in the Avon River, southeast Australia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cartwright, Ian; Hofmann, Harald

2016-09-01

Understanding the location and magnitude of groundwater inflows to rivers is important for the protection of riverine ecosystems and the management of connected groundwater and surface water systems. This study utilizes 222Rn activities and Cl concentrations in the Avon River, southeast Australia, to determine the distribution of groundwater inflows and to understand the importance of parafluvial flow on the 222Rn budget. The distribution of 222Rn activities and Cl concentrations implies that the Avon River contains alternating gaining and losing reaches. The location of groundwater inflows changed as a result of major floods in 2011-2013 that caused significant movement of the floodplain sediments. The floodplain of the Avon River comprises unconsolidated coarse-grained sediments with numerous point bars and sediment banks through which significant parafluvial flow is likely. The 222Rn activities in the Avon River, which are locally up to 3690 Bq m-3, result from a combination of groundwater inflows and the input of water from the parafluvial zone that has high 222Rn activities due to 222Rn emanation from the alluvial sediments. If the high 222Rn activities were ascribed solely to groundwater inflows, the calculated net groundwater inflows would exceed the measured increase in streamflow along the river by up to 490 % at low streamflows. Uncertainties in the 222Rn activities of groundwater, the gas transfer coefficient, and the degree of hyporheic exchange cannot explain a discrepancy of this magnitude. The proposed model of parafluvial flow envisages that water enters the alluvial sediments in reaches where the river is losing and subsequently re-enters the river in the gaining reaches with flow paths of tens to hundreds of metres. Parafluvial flow is likely to be important in rivers with coarse-grained alluvial sediments on their floodplains and failure to quantify the input of 222Rn from parafluvial flow will result in overestimating groundwater inflows to rivers.
Operational Definitions of Labor and Delivery Nursing Activities.

DTIC Science & Technology

1987-07-01

assess and record fetal heart rate. (S 2406 r) ZO!3 FETAL ELECTRODE INSERTION (RN): position patient, insert fetal electrode, secure monitor leads...to leg plate to patient’s lower extremity, connect, assess and record fetal heart rate. (S2405r) Z014 FETAL ELECTRODE INSERTION/INTRAUTERINE CATHETER...INSERTION, ASSIST: position patient for procedure, secure monitor Teads to patient’s lower extremity, assess and record fetal heart tones. Set up
Online ^{222}Rn removal by cryogenic distillation in the XENON100 experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aprile, E.; Aalbers, J.; Agostini, F.; Alfonsi, M.; Amaro, F. D.; Anthony, M.; Arneodo, F.; Barrow, P.; Baudis, L.; Bauermeister, B.; Benabderrahmane, M. L.; Berger, T.; Breur, P. A.; Brown, A.; Brown, E.; Bruenner, S.; Bruno, G.; Budnik, R.; Bütikofer, L.; Calvén, J.; Cardoso, J. M. R.; Cervantes, M.; Cichon, D.; Coderre, D.; Colijn, A. P.; Conrad, J.; Cussonneau, J. P.; Decowski, M. P.; de Perio, P.; Gangi, P. Di; Giovanni, A. Di; Diglio, S.; Duchovni, E.; Eurin, G.; Fei, J.; Ferella, A. D.; Fieguth, A.; Franco, D.; Fulgione, W.; Gallo Rosso, A.; Galloway, M.; Gao, F.; Garbini, M.; Geis, C.; Goetzke, L. W.; Grandi, L.; Greene, Z.; Grignon, C.; Hasterok, C.; Hogenbirk, E.; Itay, R.; Kaminsky, B.; Kessler, G.; Kish, A.; Landsman, H.; Lang, R. F.; Lellouch, D.; Levinson, L.; Calloch, M. Le; Lin, Q.; Lindemann, S.; Lindner, M.; Lopes, J. A. M.; Manfredini, A.; Maris, I.; Undagoitia, T. Marrodán; Masbou, J.; Massoli, F. V.; Masson, D.; Mayani, D.; Meng, Y.; Messina, M.; Micheneau, K.; Miguez, B.; Molinario, A.; Murra, M.; Naganoma, J.; Ni, K.; Oberlack, U.; Orrigo, S. E. A.; Pakarha, P.; Pelssers, B.; Persiani, R.; Piastra, F.; Pienaar, J.; Piro, M.-C.; Pizzella, V.; Plante, G.; Priel, N.; Rauch, L.; Reichard, S.; Reuter, C.; Rizzo, A.; Rosendahl, S.; Rupp, N.; Saldanha, R.; dos Santos, J. M. F.; Sartorelli, G.; Scheibelhut, M.; Schindler, S.; Schreiner, J.; Schumann, M.; Lavina, L. Scotto; Selvi, M.; Shagin, P.; Shockley, E.; Silva, M.; Simgen, H.; Sivers, M. v.; Stein, A.; Thers, D.; Tiseni, A.; Trinchero, G.; Tunnell, C.; Upole, N.; Wang, H.; Wei, Y.; Weinheimer, C.; Wulf, J.; Ye, J.; Zhang, Y.; Cristescu, I.

2017-06-01

We describe the purification of xenon from traces of the radioactive noble gas radon using a cryogenic distillation column. The distillation column was integrated into the gas purification loop of the XENON100 detector for online radon removal. This enabled us to significantly reduce the constant ^{222}Rn background originating from radon emanation. After inserting an auxiliary ^{222}Rn emanation source in the gas loop, we determined a radon reduction factor of R > 27 (95% C.L.) for the distillation column by monitoring the ^{222}Rn activity concentration inside the XENON100 detector.
Synoptic estimates of diffuse groundwater seepage to a spring-fed karst river at high spatial resolution using an automated radon measurement technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khadka, Mitra B.; Martin, Jonathan B.; Kurz, Marie J.

2017-01-01

Groundwater (GW) seepage can provide a major source of water, solutes, and contaminants to rivers, but identifying magnitudes, directions and locations of seepage is complicated by its diffuse and heterogeneous distributions. However, such information is necessary to develop programs and policies for protecting ecosystems and managing water resources. Here, we assess GW seepage to the Ichetucknee River, a spring-fed, low gradient, gaining stream in north-central Florida, through automated longitudinal surveys of radon (222Rn) activities at three different flow conditions. A 222Rn mass balance model, which integrates groundwater and spring water end member 222Rn activities and longitudinal 222Rn distributions in river water, shows that diffuse groundwater seepage represents about 16% of the total river baseflow, consistent with previous results obtained from ion (Ca2+, Cl-, SRP and Fe) mass balances and dye tracer methods. During high river stage, the contribution from seepage increases to 18-23% of the river flow. The spatial distribution of GW seepage is more variable in the upper 2.2-km reach of the river than the lower 2.8-km reach, regardless of river flow conditions. The upper reach has a narrower flood plain than the lower reach, which limits evapotranspiration and increases hydraulic gradients toward the river following storm events. Seepage in the lower reach is also limited by hydrologic damming by the receiving river, which inundates the floodplain during high flow conditions, and reduces the hydraulic head gradient. These results demonstrate the variable nature of seepage to a gaining river in both time and space and indicate that multiple synoptic analyses of GW seepage are required to assess seepage rates, determine time-averaged solute fluxes, and develop optimal management policies for riverine ecosystems.
The Utility of the Remnant Kidney Volume/Body Surface Area Ratio and Tumor Diameter as Predictors of Postoperative Degree of Renal Functional Decline in Patients With Renal Cell Carcinoma Treated by Radical Nephrectomy.

PubMed

Sejima, Takehiro; Yamaguchi, Noriya; Iwamoto, Hideto; Masago, Toshihiko; Morizane, Shuichi; Ono, Koji; Koumi, Tsutomu; Honda, Masashi; Takenaka, Atsushi

2015-08-01

To characterize the preoperative factors affecting renal cell carcinoma patients as predictive of post-radical nephrectomy (RN) mild (M-decline) or severe (S-decline) renal functional decline and to elucidate the histopathologic features of the resected normal kidney cortex, as well as the occurrence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in both M-decline and S-decline patients. M-decline and S-decline were categorized as a percentage of postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate decline of <20 and of >40, respectively. The preoperative factors analyzed were patient demographics, comorbidities, and radiographic findings, including remnant kidney status and tumor size. The factors based on postoperative information analyzed were tumor and normal cortex pathology and CVD events. In 175 patient cohort, 21 and 32 cases were categorized as M-decline and S-decline, respectively. Absence of comorbidities, larger remnant kidney volume (RKV)/body surface area (BSA) ratio, and larger tumor diameter were significantly predictive of M-decline, whereas smaller tumor diameter was significantly predictive of S-decline. The global glomerulosclerosis extent in nephrectomized normal cortex of S-decline cases was significantly higher than in other types of cases. No CVD event was observed in M-decline cases. This is the first report to identify the RKV/BSA ratio as a promising predictor of post-RN degree of renal functional decline. Post-RN prevention of life-threatening outcomes according to preoperative and postoperative information, including the degree of post-RN renal functional decline and histopathology of the nephrectomized normal cortex, should be considerable in future urological tasks. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

The relationship of California's Medicaid reimbursement system to nurse staffing levels.

PubMed

Mukamel, Dana B; Kang, Taewoon; Collier, Eric; Harrington, Charlene

2012-10-01

Policy initiatives at the Federal and state level are aimed at increasing staffing in nursing homes. These include direct staffing standards, public reporting, and financial incentives. To examine the impact of California's Medicaid reimbursement for nursing homes which includes incentives directed at staffing. Two-stage limited-information maximum-likelihood regressions were used to model the relationship between staffing [registered nurses (RNs), licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants hours per resident day] and the Medicaid payment rate, accounting for the specific structure of the payment system, endogeneity of payment and case-mix, and controlling for facility and market characteristics. A total of 927 California free-standing nursing homes in 2006. The model included facility characteristics (case-mix, size, ownership, and chain affiliation), market competition and excess demand, labor supply and wages, unemployment, and female employment. The instrumental variable for Medicaid reimbursement was the peer group payment rate for 7 geographical market areas, and the instrumental variables for resident case-mix were the average county revenues for professional therapy establishments and the percent of county population aged 65 and over. Consistent with the rate incentives and rational expectation behavior, expected nursing home reimbursement rates in 2008 were associated with increased RN staffing levels in 2006 but had no relationship with licensed practical nurse and certified nursing assistant staffing. The effect was estimated at 2 minutes per $10 increase in rate. The incentives in the Medicaid system impacted only RN staffing suggesting the need to improve the state's rate setting methodology.
Radon emanation from low-grade uranium ore.

PubMed

Sahu, Patitapaban; Mishra, Devi Prasad; Panigrahi, Durga Charan; Jha, Vivekanand; Patnaik, R Lokeswara

2013-12-01

Estimation of radon emanation in uranium mines is given top priority to minimize the risk of inhalation exposure due to short-lived radon progeny. This paper describes the radon emanation studies conducted in the laboratory as well as inside an operating underground uranium mine at Jaduguda, India. Some of the important parameters, such as grade/(226)Ra activity, moisture content, bulk density, porosity and emanation fraction of ore, governing the migration of radon through the ore were determined. Emanation from the ore samples in terms of emanation rate and emanation fraction was measured in the laboratory under airtight condition in glass jar. The in situ radon emanation rate inside the mine was measured from drill holes made in the ore body. The in situ(222)Rn emanation rate from the mine walls varied in the range of 0.22-51.84 × 10(-3) Bq m(-2) s(-1) with the geometric mean of 8.68 × 10(-3) Bq m(-2) s(-1). A significant positive linear correlation (r = 0.99, p < 0.001) between in situ(222)Rn emanation rate and the ore grade was observed. The emanation fraction of the ore samples, which varied in the range of 0.004-0.089 with mean value of 0.025 ± 0.02, showed poor correlation with ore grade and porosity. Empirical relationships between radon emanation rate and the ore grade/(226)Ra were also established for quick prediction of radon emanation rate from the ore body. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Net radiation estimated by remote sensing in Cerrado areas in the Upper Paraguay River Basin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fausto, Marcos Alves; Machado, Nadja Gomes; de Souza Nogueira, José; Biudes, Marcelo Sacardi

2014-01-01

The Cerrado is a heterogeneous landscape which is shrinking due to deforestation, giving rise to managed ecosystems. The land cover changes alter net radiation (Rn), which determines the quantity of available energy to the energy balance partition. The objectives of this study were (1) to determine the spatial pattern of the vegetation indices, albedo, and land surface temperature (LST) and (2) to evaluate the Rn estimated by Landsat 5 Thematic Mapper (TM) images over Cerrado areas in the Upper Paraguay River Basin. We estimated the vegetation indices, albedo, LST, and Rn of five selected vegetation types. The values estimated by Landsat 5 TM images had seasonal variations with higher values of the vegetation indices and lower values of the albedo and the LST during the wet season. The riparian and Cerrado strictu sensu had higher values of vegetation indices and lower albedo and LST than grasslands. The Rn estimated by Landsat 5 TM images was highly correlated with the measured Rn. The Rn had a seasonal pattern, following the solar radiation, with higher values during the wet season and varied spatially with higher values in the riparian forest and Cerrado strictu sensu and lower in the grasslands. This study showed the applicability of the Landsat 5 TM images to estimate Rn, which can help to understand the heterogeneity in the study area.
New propolis type from north-east Brazil: chemical composition, antioxidant activity and botanical origin.

PubMed

Ferreira, Joselena M; Fernandes-Silva, Caroline C; Salatino, Antonio; Negri, Giuseppina; Message, Dejair

2017-08-01

Propolis is a bee product with wide diversity of biological activity. It has a complex composition, which is dependent on its botanical source. The present study aimed to determine the chemical profile, antioxidant activity and botanical origin of two samples of a propolis type from two locations of the state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN, north-east Brazil). The standard chemical characteristics of the RN propolis are similar or superior to the internationally marketed Brazilian green propolis. RN propolis from two locations have high antioxidant activity, corresponding to 10% (municipality of Afonso Bezerra) and 13% (municipality of Alto do Rodrigues) of quercetin activity by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method and to 15% (both locations) by the β-carotene discoloration method. High-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD)-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry analyses revealed that most constituents of the RN propolis are flavonoids, mainly flavonols and chalcones. HPLC-DAD analysis of ethanol extracts revealed a great similarity between the chemical profile of RN propolis and shoot apices of 'jurema-preta' (Mimosa tenuiflora, Leguminosae, Mimosoideae). 'Jurema-preta' shoot apices are likely resin sources of RN propolis. The chemical characteristics and antioxidant property of RN propolis provide promising prospects for the introduction of this type of propolis into the apicultural market. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.
Online Faculty Mentoring and Transition Balance in Family Nurse Practitioner Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Poronsky, Cathlin B.

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of online faculty mentoring on Registered Nurse (RN) to Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) role transition balance during graduate education. Making the transition from RN to an FNP can seem daunting and there is limited information in the literature about RN to FNP role transition during graduate…
The Transition Experiences of Graduates of a Synchronous Online LPN to RN Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Hoag, Debra K.

2016-01-01

This qualitative case study included a review of the nursing shortage, nursing education, contemporary learners, the LPN and RN, the future of nursing education, online education, and transitions experiences. These topics defined this study by providing the underpinnings to understand the LPN to RN journey. According to the American Association of…
Pathways to Practice. A Series of Final Reports on the SREB Nursing Curriculum Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Haase, Patricia T.

Five final reports on the Nursing Curriculum Project of the Southern Regional Education Board are presented. The reports include (1) RN (Registered Nursing) Education: The Basic Issues; (2) Types of RN Programs; (3) Planning and Operating an RN Program; (4) Acclimating the Novice Nurse: Whose Responsibility? and (5) Statewide Planning for Nursing.…
The role of Fc-receptors in the uptake and transport of therapeutic antibodies in the retinal pigment epithelium.

PubMed

Dithmer, Michaela; Hattermann, Kirsten; Pomarius, Prasti; Aboul Naga, Shereen Hassan; Meyer, Tim; Mentlein, Rolf; Roider, Johann; Klettner, Alexa

2016-04-01

In the ophthalmological clinic, intravitreally applied antibodies or Fc-containing fusion proteins are frequently used, but the biology and pharmacokinetics of these therapeutics in the retina are not well understood. We have previously shown intracellular uptake of Fc-containing molecules in RPE cells. In this study, we investigated the involvement of Fc-receptors, both Fcγ-receptors and the neonatal Fc-receptor (FcRn) in the uptake and intracellular trafficking of the VEGF-antagonists bevacizumab, aflibercept and the anti-CD20 antibody rituximab in three different model systems, primary porcine RPE cells, ARPE-19 cells and porcine RPE/choroid explants. The expression of Fcγ-receptors was tested in primary porcine RPE cells, and the expression of Fcγ-receptors I and II could be shown in RT-PCR and qRT-PCR, while the expression of FcRn was additionally confirmed in Western blot and immunocytochemistry. All three compounds, bevacizumab, rituximab and aflibercept, were taken up into the cells and displayed a characteristic time-dependent pattern, as shown in Western blot and immunohistochemistry. The uptake was not altered by the inhibition of Fcγ-receptors using different inhibitors (TruStain FcX, genistein, R406). However, the inhibition of FcRn with an antagonistic antibody reduced intracellular IgG in porcine RPE cells (rituximab) and ARPE-19 cells (bevacizumab, rituximab). Colocalisations between the tested compounds and myosin7a could be found. In addition, limited colocalization with FcRn and the tested compounds, as well as triple localization between compound, FcRn and myosin7a could be detected, indicating a role of myosin7a in FcRn mediated transport. However, the colocalizations are restricted to small fractions of the Fc-containing compounds. Furthermore, the FcRn is mainly found in the membrane section, where only minute amounts of the Fc-containing compounds are seen, suggesting a limited interaction. An apical to choroidal transport of IgG through the RPE/choroid can be found in RPE/choroid explants. Inhibition of FcRn increases the amount of bevacizumab found on the choroidal side, suggesting a role of FcRn in the recycling of bevacizumab. In conclusion, our data indicate a role for FcRn, but not Fcγ-receptors, in the uptake and transport of Fc-containing molecules in the RPE and indicate a recycling function of FcRn in the retina. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Patient-controlled oral analgesia for postoperative pain management following total knee replacement.

PubMed

Kastanias, Patti; Gowans, Sue; Tumber, Paul S; Snaith, Kianda; Robinson, Sandra

2010-01-01

To investigate whether patient-controlled oral analgesia (PCOA) used by individuals receiving a total knee replacement could reduce pain, increase patient satisfaction, reduce opioid use and/or reduce opioid side effects when compared with traditional nurse (RN)-administered oral analgesia. Patients who underwent an elective total knee replacement at a quaternary care centre (Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario) were randomly assigned to either PCOA or RN-administered short-acting oral opioids on postoperative day 2. Subjects in the RN group called the RN to receive their prescribed short-acting opioid. Subjects in the PCOA group kept a single dose of their prescribed oral opioid at their bedside and took this dose when they felt they needed it, to a maximum of one dose every 2 h. Study outcomes, collected on postoperative day 2, included pain (measured by the Brief Pain Inventory - Short Form), patient satisfaction (measured by the Pain Outcome Questionnaire Satisfaction subscale - component II), opioid use (oral morphine equivalents), opioid side effects (nausea, pruritus and/or constipation) and knee measures (maximum passive knee flexion and pain at maximum passive knee flexion, performed on the operative knee). Study outcomes were analyzed twice. First, for a subset of 73 subjects who remained in their randomly assigned group (PCOA group, n=36; RN group, n=37), randomized analyses were performed. Second, for the larger sample of 88 subjects who were categorized by their actual method of receiving oral opioids (PCOA group, n=41; RN group, n=47), as-treated analyses were performed. There were no differences in study outcomes between the PCOA and RN groups in either analysis. PCOA was not superior to RN administration on study outcomes. However, PCOA did not increase opioid use or pain. PCOA remains an important element in the patient-centred care facility.
Analysis of 238U, 232Th, 222Rn, and 220Rn in different medical drug preparations by using CR-39 and LR-115 typE II SSNTDs and resulting radiation doses to adult patients.

PubMed

Misdaq, M A; Karime, M

2009-01-01

Uranium (238U) and thorium (232Th) concentrations as well as radon (222Rn) and thoron (220Rn) alpha activities per unit volume have been measured inside 18 medical drugs (4 liquid and 14 solid materials), widely prescribed by doctors to the Moroccan adult patients, by using CR-39 and LR-115 type II solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTDs). The measured 238U, 232Th, 222Rn, and 220Rn concentrations ranged from (4.7 +/- 0.1) mBq L-1 to (14.3 +/- 0.7) mBq L-1, (0.32 +/- 0.02) mBq L-1 to (2.7 +/- 0.2) mBq L-1, (4.7 +/- 0.2) Bq L-1 to (14.3 +/- 0.7) Bq L-1, and (0.32 +/- 0.02) Bq L-1 to (2.7 +/- 0.2) Bq L-1 for the medical drug samples studied, respectively. These radionuclides were also measured inside the preparations of the solid medical drugs studied. The influence of the drinking water nature and pollution on the concentrations of these radionuclides inside the considered medical drug preparations was investigated. Annual committed equivalent doses due to 238U, 232Th, and 222Rn were evaluated in the human body compartments of adult patients from the ingestion of the medical drug preparations studied. The maximum total committed effective dose due to 238U, 232Th, and 222Rn from the ingestion of the studied medical drug preparations, prepared from unpolluted waters, by adult patients was found equal to 1.44 microSv y.
Preliminary experiences with 222Rn gas in Arizona homes.

PubMed

Kearfott, K J

1989-02-01

Results of a survey of 222Rn gas using four-day charcoal canister tests in 759 Arizona homes are reported. Although the study was not random with respect to population or land area, it was useful in identifying areas at risk and locating several homes having elevated indoor 222Rn air concentrations. Approximately 18% of the homes tested exceeded 150 Bq m-3 (4 pCi L-1), with 7% exceeding 300 Bq m-3 (8 pCi L-1). Several Arizona cities had larger fractions of homes exceeding 150 Bq m-3 (4 pCi L-1), such as Carefree and Cave Creek (23%), Paradise Valley (30%), Payson (33%), and Prescott (31%). The Granite Dells and Groom Creek areas of Prescott had in excess of 40-60% of the houses tested exceeding 150 Bq m-3 (4 pCi L-1). Elevated 222Rn concentrations were measured for a variety of home types having different construction materials. Private well water was identified as a potentially significant source of 222Rn gas in Prescott homes, with water from one well testing over 3.5 MBq m-3 (94,000 pCi L-1). A 222Rn concentration in air exceeding 410,000 Bq m-3 (11,000 pCi L-1) was measured using a four-day charcoal canister test in a house in Prescott which had a well opening into a living space. Additional measurements in this 150-m3 dwelling revealed a strikingly heterogeneous 222Rn concentration. The excessive 222Rn level in the dwelling was reduced to less than 190 Bq m-3 (5.2 pCi L-1) by sealing the well head with caulking and providing passive ventilation through a pipe.
Preliminary experiences with /sup 222/Rn gas in Arizona homes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kearfott, K.J.

1989-02-01

Results of a survey of 222Rn gas using four-day charcoal canister tests in 759 Arizona homes are reported. Although the study was not random with respect to population or land area, it was useful in identifying areas at risk and locating several homes having elevated indoor 222Rn air concentrations. Approximately 18% of the homes tested exceeded 150 Bq m-3 (4 pCi L-1), with 7% exceeding 300 Bq m-3 (8 pCi L-1). Several Arizona cities had larger fractions of homes exceeding 150 Bq m-3 (4 pCi L-1), such as Carefree and Cave Creek (23%), Paradise Valley (30%), Payson (33%), and Prescottmore » (31%). The Granite Dells and Groom Creek areas of Prescott had in excess of 40-60% of the houses tested exceeding 150 Bq m-3 (4 pCi L-1). Elevated 222Rn concentrations were measured for a variety of home types having different construction materials. Private well water was identified as a potentially significant source of 222Rn gas in Prescott homes, with water from one well testing over 3.5 MBq m-3 (94,000 pCi L-1). A 222Rn concentration in air exceeding 410,000 Bq m-3 (11,000 pCi L-1) was measured using a four-day charcoal canister test in a house in Prescott which had a well opening into a living space. Additional measurements in this 150-m3 dwelling revealed a strikingly heterogeneous 222Rn concentration. The excessive 222Rn level in the dwelling was reduced to less than 190 Bq m-3 (5.2 pCi L-1) by sealing the well head with caulking and providing passive ventilation through a pipe.« less
Deep sub-wavelength metrology for advanced defect classification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van der Walle, P.; Kramer, E.; van der Donck, J. C. J.; Mulckhuyse, W.; Nijsten, L.; Bernal Arango, F. A.; de Jong, A.; van Zeijl, E.; Spruit, H. E. T.; van den Berg, J. H.; Nanda, G.; van Langen-Suurling, A. K.; Alkemade, P. F. A.; Pereira, S. F.; Maas, D. J.

2017-06-01

Particle defects are important contributors to yield loss in semi-conductor manufacturing. Particles need to be detected and characterized in order to determine and eliminate their root cause. We have conceived a process flow for advanced defect classification (ADC) that distinguishes three consecutive steps; detection, review and classification. For defect detection, TNO has developed the Rapid Nano (RN3) particle scanner, which illuminates the sample from nine azimuth angles. The RN3 is capable of detecting 42 nm Latex Sphere Equivalent (LSE) particles on XXX-flat Silicon wafers. For each sample, the lower detection limit (LDL) can be verified by an analysis of the speckle signal, which originates from the surface roughness of the substrate. In detection-mode (RN3.1), the signal from all illumination angles is added. In review-mode (RN3.9), the signals from all nine arms are recorded individually and analyzed in order to retrieve additional information on the shape and size of deep sub-wavelength defects. This paper presents experimental and modelling results on the extraction of shape information from the RN3.9 multi-azimuth signal such as aspect ratio, skewness, and orientation of test defects. Both modeling and experimental work confirm that the RN3.9 signal contains detailed defect shape information. After review by RN3.9, defects are coarsely classified, yielding a purified Defect-of-Interest (DoI) list for further analysis on slower metrology tools, such as SEM, AFM or HIM, that provide more detailed review data and further classification. Purifying the DoI list via optical metrology with RN3.9 will make inspection time on slower review tools more efficient.
Localization of neonatal Fc receptor for IgG in aggregated lymphoid nodules area in abomasum of Bactrian camels (Camelus bactrianus) of different ages.

PubMed

Zhang, Wang-Dong; Wang, Wen-Hui; Li, Shu-Xian; Jia, Shuai; Zhang, Xue-Feng; Cao, Ting-Ting

2016-10-20

The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) plays a crucial role in transporting IgG and associated antigens across polarized epithelial barriers in mucosal immunity. However, it was not clear that FcRn expression in aggregated lymphoid nodules area (ALNA) in abomasum, a unique and important mucosal immune structure discovered only in Bactrian camels. In the present study, 27 Alashan Bactrian camels were divided into the following five age groups: fetus (10-13 months of gestation), young (1-2 years), pubertal (3-5 years), middle-aged (6-16 years) and old (17-20 years). The FcRn expressions were observed and analyzed in detail with histology, immunohistochemistry, micro-image analysis and statistical methods. The results showed that the FcRn was expressed in mucosal epithelial cells of ALNA from the fetus to the old group, although the expression level rapidly declined in old group; moreover, after the ALNA maturated, the FcRn expression level in the non-follicle-associated epithelium (non-FAE) was significantly higher than that in FAE (P < 0.05). In addition, the FcRn was also expressed in the vessel endothelium, smooth muscle tissue, and macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs) of secondary lymphoid follicles (sLFs). It was demonstrated that FcRn was mainly expressed in non-FAE, the effector sites, although which was expressed in FAE, the inductive sites for mucosal immunity. And it was also expressed in DCs and macrophages in sLFs of all ages of Bactrian camels. The results provided a powerful evidence that IgG (including HCAb) could participate in mucosal immune response and tolerance in ALNA of Bactrian camels through FcRn transmembrane transport.
Method for the preparation of radon-211. [Patent application

DOEpatents

Meyer, G.J.; Lambrecht, R.M.

1980-10-10

A method is claimed for the production of /sup 211/Rn which can be easily isolated from the target and obtained in high yields. It is claimed that the radioisotope /sup 211/Rn can be prepared by the bombardment of /sup 209/Bi with /sup 7/Li particles using the nuclear reaction /sup 209/Bi(/sup 7/Li,5n)/sup 211/Rn. The /sup 211/Rn can be isolated from the target quite easily by degassing at elevated temperatures and the radiochemical purity of the product is better than 98%. It can thus be used as a generator system for /sup 211/At which is of potential interest in biomedical applications. The excitation function for this reaction is about from 40 to 60 MeV and the cross section for /sup 211/Rn production reaches 650 mb at 53 MeV producing a saturation yield of 5.5 ..mu..Ci/nA.
Predictors of nurses' experience of verbal abuse by nurse colleagues.

PubMed

Keller, Ronald; Krainovich-Miller, Barbara; Budin, Wendy; Djukic, Maja

Between 45% and 94% of registered nurses (RNs) experience verbal abuse, which is associated with physical and psychological harm. Although several studies examined predictors of RNs' verbal abuse, none examined predictors of RNs' experiences of verbal abuse by RN colleagues. To examine individual, workplace, dispositional, contextual, and interpersonal predictors of RNs' reported experiences of verbal abuse from RN colleagues. In this secondary analysis, a cross-sectional design with multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the effect of 23 predictors on verbal abuse by RN colleagues in a sample of 1,208 early career RNs. Selected variables in the empirical intragroup conflict model explained 23.8% of variance in RNs' experiences of verbal abuse by RN colleagues. A number of previously unstudied factors were identified that organizational leaders can monitor and develop or modify policies to prevent early career RNs' experiences of verbal abuse by RN colleagues. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Effect of Prior Health-Related Employment on the Registered Nurse Workforce Supply.

PubMed

Yoo, Byung-kwan; Lin, Tzu-chun; Kim, Minchul; Sasaki, Tomoko; Spetz, Joanne

2016-01-01

Registered nurses (RN) who held prior health-related employment in occupations other than licensed practical or vocational nursing (LPN/LVN) are reported to have increased rapidly in the past decades. Researchers examined whether prior health-related employment affects RN workforce supply. A cross-sectional bivariate probit model using the 2008 National Sample Survey of Registered Nurses was esti- mated. Prior health-related employment in relatively lower-wage occupations, such as allied health, clerk, or nursing aide, was positively associated with working s an RN. ~>Prior health-related employ- ment in relatively higher-wage categories, such as a health care manager or LPN/LVN, was positively associated with working full-time as an RN. Policy implications are to promote an expanded career ladder program and a nursing school admission policy that targets non-RN health care workers with an interest in becoming RNs.
Alpha Recoil Flux of Radon in Groundwater and its Experimental Measurement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mehta, N.; Harvey, C. F.; Kocar, B. D.

2016-12-01

Groundwater Radon (Rn222) activity is primarily controlled by alpha recoil process (radioactive decay), however, evaluating the rate and extent of this process, and its impact on porewater radioactivity, remains uncertain. Numerous factors contribute to this uncertainty, including the spatial distribution of parent radionuclides (e.g. U238, Th232 , Ra226 and Ra228) within native materials, differences in nuclide recoil length in host matrix and the physical structure of the rock strata (pore size distribution and porosity). Here, we experimentally measure Radon activities within porewater contributed through alpha recoil, and analyze its variations as a function of pore structure and parent nuclide distribution within host matrices, including Marcellus shale rock and Serrie-Copper Pegmatite. The shale cores originate from the Marcellus formation in Mckean, Pennsylvania collected at depths ranging from 1000-7000 feet, and the U-Th-rich Pegmatite is obtained from South Platte District, Colorado. Columns are packed with granulated rock of varying surface area (30,000-60,000 cm2/g) and subjected to low salinity sodium chloride solution in a close loop configuration. The activity of Radon (Rn222) and radium (Ra226) in the saline fluid is measured over time to determine recoil supply rates. Mineralogical and trace element data for rock specimens are characterized using XRD and XRF, and detailed geochemical profiles are constructed through total dissolution and analysis using ICP-MS and ICP-OES. Naturally occurring Radium nuclides and its daughters are quantified using a low-energy Germanium detector. The parent nuclide (U238 and Th232) distribution in the host rock is studied using X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS). Our study elucidates the contribution of alpha recoil on the appearance and distribution of Radon (Rn222) within porewater of representative rock matrices. Further, we illustrate the effects of chemical and physical heterogeneity on the rate of this process, which may inform models predicting the fate and transport of radionuclides in subsurface environments.
Atmospheric Residence Times of Continental Aerosols.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Balkanski, Yves Jacques

The global atmospheric distributions of ^{222}Rn and ^{210 }Pb are simulated with a three-dimensional model of atmospheric transport based on the meteorology of the NASA GISS^1>=neral circulation model. The short-lived radioactive gas ^ {222}Rn (half-life = 3.8d) is emitted almost exclusively from land, at a relatively uniform rate; hence it is an excellent tracer of continental influences. Lead -210 is produced by decay of ^{222} Rn and immediately condenses to preexisting aerosol surfaces. It provides an excellent measure of aerosol residence times in the atmosphere because its source is accurately defined by the ^{222} Rn distribution. Results from the three-dimensional model are compared to measurements of ^ {222}Rn and ^{210 }Pb atmospheric concentrations to evaluate model's long-range transport over oceanic regions and to study the deposition mechanisms of atmospheric aerosols. Model results for ^{222} Rn are used to examine the long-range transport of continental air over two selected oceanic regions, the subantartic Indian Ocean and the North Pacific. It is shown that fast transport of air from southern Africa causes substantial continental pollution at southern mid-latitudes, a region usually regarded as pristine. Air over the North Pacific is heavily impacted by continental influences year round, but the altitude at which the transport occurs varies seasonally. Observations of aerosols at island sites, which are commonly used as diagnostics of continental influences, may be misleading because they do not account for influences at high altitude and because aerosols are efficiently scavenged by deposition during transport. The study of ^{210}Pb focuses on defining the residence times of submicron aerosols in the troposphere. Scavenging in wet convective updrafts is found to provide the dominant sink on a global scale. The globally averaged residence time for ^{210 }Pb-containing aerosols in the troposphere is 7 days. The average increase in residence time with altitude is from 4 days near the surface to 25 days near the tropopause. Hence, aerosols produced in the upper troposphere can be transported on a global scale. Residence times averaged over the tropospheric column vary geographically from less than 2 days in rainy regions to more than 30 days in dry regions. In particular, aerosols produced by biomass burning over central Africa during the dry season might affect large areas over the tropical Atlantic Ocean, with possible implications for weather and climate. ftn ^1GISS: Goddard Institute for Space Studies, New York.
A Novel Application for 222Rn Emanation Standards

PubMed Central

Laureano-Perez, L.; Collé, R.; Jacobson, D.R.; Fitzgerald, R.; Khan, N.S.; Dmochowski, I.J.

2013-01-01

In collaboration with the University of Pennsylvania, a 222Rn emanation source was used for the determination of the binding affinity of radon to a cryptophane molecular host. This source was similar to a 222Rn emanation standard that was developed and disseminated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). The novel experimental design involved performing the reactions at femtomole levels, developing exacting gravimetric sampling methods and making precise 222Rn assays by liquid scintillation counting. A cryptophane-radon association constant was determined, KA = (49,000 ± 12,000) L· mol−1 at 293 K, which was the first measurement of radon binding to a molecular host. PMID:22455833

Radium-226 body burden in U miners by measurement of Rn in exhaled breath.

PubMed

Srivastava, G K; Raghavayya, M; Kotrappa, P; Somasundaram, S

1986-02-01

Uranium miners were made to inhale Rn-free medical O2 and exhale through a 5.2-1 A1 chamber before reporting to work. The chamber was sealed and isolated from the sampling circuit. An electrostatic plate collected the freshly formed Rn-decay products. The subsequent programmed alpha counting of the plate yielded a Rn concentration in the exhaled breath. Assuming that the exhaled breath represents a certain fraction of the Rn produced inside the body, the body burden of 226Ra was calculated. Standardisation of this procedure and the data collected on 310 miners are discussed. The procedure is simple and applicable for routine measurements. The miner needs to be in the laboratory for only 10 min. The system is also portable for field application. For routine use, the minimum detectable concentration is 3.87 Bq X m-3 which corresponds to a body burden of 0.26 kBq in a typical miner, if one assumes the Rn release fraction from the body as 84%. The system offers a more convenient and sensitive alternative to whole-body counting of workers for 226Ra.
Influence of Asian outflow on Rishiri Island, northernmost Japan: Application of radon as a tracer for characterizing fetch regions and evaluating a global 3D model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Chunmao; Yoshikawa-Inoue, Hisayuki; Matsueda, Hidekadzu; Sawa, Yosuke; Niwa, Yosuke; Wada, Akira; Tanimoto, Hiroshi

2012-04-01

Atmospheric 222Rn was monitored from December 2008 to November 2010 on Rishiri Island (45°07‧N, 141°12‧E), northernmost Japan. Seasonal 222Rn variation was characterized by high concentrations from November to February and low concentrations from May to July, caused by the alternation of continental and maritime fetch regions. 222Rn tracer and back trajectory cluster analyses indicated that the predominant continental fetch region was southeastern Siberia and northeastern China. 222Rn emitted from China and South Korea, whose economies are growing rapidly, did not significantly affect the Rishiri site. The major maritime fetch region was the Sea of Okhotsk and the Bering Sea. A global three-dimensional model (NICAM-TM) accurately simulated 222Rn concentrations on Rishiri Island and in the seasonal fetch regions. The time series of 222Rn data will make it possible to evaluate the sources and sinks of atmospheric greenhouse gases being monitored at Rishiri Island, which complements other sites in the Asia-Pacific rim region, and to validate model simulations used to examine trans-boundary air pollution.
Cross-species analysis of Fc engineered anti-Lewis-Y human IgG1 variants in human neonatal receptor transgenic mice reveal importance of S254 and Y436 in binding human neonatal Fc receptor

PubMed Central

Burvenich, Ingrid J. G.; Farrugia, William; Lee, Fook T.; Catimel, Bruno; Liu, Zhanqi; Makris, Dahna; Cao, Diana; O'Keefe, Graeme J.; Brechbiel, Martin W.; King, Dylan; Spirkoska, Violeta; Allan, Laura C.; Ramsland, Paul A.; Scott, Andrew M.

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT IgG has a long half-life through engagement of its Fc region with the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn). The FcRn binding site on IgG1 has been shown to contain I253 and H310 in the CH2 domain and H435 in the CH3 domain. Altering the half-life of IgG has been pursued with the aim to prolong or reduce the half-life of therapeutic IgGs. More recent studies have shown that IgGs bind differently to mouse and human FcRn. In this study we characterize a set of hu3S193 IgG1 variants with mutations in the FcRn binding site. A double mutation in the binding site is necessary to abrogate binding to murine FcRn, whereas a single mutation in the FcRn binding site is sufficient to no longer detect binding to human FcRn and create hu3S193 IgG1 variants with a half-life similar to previously studied hu3S193 F(ab')2 (t1/2β, I253A, 12.23 h; H310A, 12.94; H435A, 12.57; F(ab')2, 12.6 h). Alanine substitutions in S254 in the CH2 domain and Y436 in the CH3 domain showed reduced binding in vitro to human FcRn and reduced elimination half-lives in huFcRn transgenic mice (t1/2β, S254A, 37.43 h; Y436A, 39.53 h; wild-type, 83.15 h). These variants had minimal effect on half-life in BALB/c nu/nu mice (t1/2β, S254A, 119.9 h; Y436A, 162.1 h; wild-type, 163.1 h). These results provide insight into the interaction of human Fc by human FcRn, and are important for antibody-based therapeutics with optimal pharmacokinetics for payload strategies used in the clinic. PMID:27030023
SU-F-T-301: Planar Dose Pass Rate Inflation Due to the MapCHECK Measurement Uncertainty Function

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bailey, D; Spaans, J; Kumaraswamy, L

Purpose: To quantify the effect of the Measurement Uncertainty function on planar dosimetry pass rates, as analyzed with Sun Nuclear Corporation analytic software (“MapCHECK” or “SNC Patient”). This optional function is toggled on by default upon software installation, and automatically increases the user-defined dose percent difference (%Diff) tolerance for each planar dose comparison. Methods: Dose planes from 109 IMRT fields and 40 VMAT arcs were measured with the MapCHECK 2 diode array, and compared to calculated planes from a commercial treatment planning system. Pass rates were calculated within the SNC analytic software using varying calculation parameters, including Measurement Uncertainty onmore » and off. By varying the %Diff criterion for each dose comparison performed with Measurement Uncertainty turned off, an effective %Diff criterion was defined for each field/arc corresponding to the pass rate achieved with MapCHECK Uncertainty turned on. Results: For 3%/3mm analysis, the Measurement Uncertainty function increases the user-defined %Diff by 0.8–1.1% average, depending on plan type and calculation technique, for an average pass rate increase of 1.0–3.5% (maximum +8.7%). For 2%, 2 mm analysis, the Measurement Uncertainty function increases the user-defined %Diff by 0.7–1.2% average, for an average pass rate increase of 3.5–8.1% (maximum +14.2%). The largest increases in pass rate are generally seen with poorly-matched planar dose comparisons; the MapCHECK Uncertainty effect is markedly smaller as pass rates approach 100%. Conclusion: The Measurement Uncertainty function may substantially inflate planar dose comparison pass rates for typical IMRT and VMAT planes. The types of uncertainties incorporated into the function (and their associated quantitative estimates) as described in the software user’s manual may not accurately estimate realistic measurement uncertainty for the user’s measurement conditions. Pass rates listed in published reports or otherwise compared to the results of other users or vendors should clearly indicate whether the Measurement Uncertainty function is used.« less
Occupational stress and strain in the Royal Navy 2007.

PubMed

Bridger, R S; Brasher, K; Dew, A; Kilminster, S

2008-12-01

Previous surveys of psychological strain in the Naval Service (NS) have shown higher than expected levels of strain when compared to the general population. To repeat the survey last carried out in 2004 and to obtain further information on the nature of the occupational stressors associated with strain. General Health Questionnaire-12 strain rates and job/life stressors were measured using a Work and Well-Being Questionnaire. Models of strain were developed for male and female personnel in the Royal Navy (RN) and males in the Royal Marines (RM). The response rate was 57%. The psychological strain rate was 31.5% overall. Personnel suffering from strain tended to be 'overcommitted' to work, had low levels of commitment to the NS and had suffered stressful life events (SLEs) in the previous 12 months. Strain rates declined with age and rank in males, but not in females. Strain was significantly positively correlated with levels of overcommitment, effort-reward imbalance (ERI), role conflict, work-family conflict, organizational commitment and exposure to SLEs. Models of strain in the males and females in the RN and in the RM accounted for between 37 and 44% of the variance in strain. The survey provides evidence for both the demand control and ERI models-components of these models contribute independently to strain. High levels of commitment to the organization were associated with lower strain and exposure to SLEs to higher strain.
All-optical virtual private network system in OFDM based long-reach PON using RSOA re-modulation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Chang-Hun; Jung, Sang-Min; Kang, Su-Min; Han, Sang-Kook

2015-01-01

We propose an all-optical virtual private network (VPN) system in an orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) based long reach PON (LR-PON). In the optical access network field, technologies based on fundamental upstream (U/S) and downstream (D/S) have been actively researched to accommodate explosion of data capacity. However, data transmission among the end users which is arisen from cloud computing, file-sharing and interactive game takes a large weight inside of internet traffic. Moreover, this traffic is predicted to increase more if Internet of Things (IoT) services are activated. In a conventional PON, VPN data is transmitted through ONU-OLT-ONU via U/S and D/S carriers. It leads to waste of bandwidth and energy due to O-E-O conversion in the OLT and round-trip propagation between OLT and remote node (RN). Also, it causes inevitable load to the OLT for electrical buffer, scheduling and routing. The network inefficiency becomes more critical in a LR-PON which has been researched as an effort to reduce CAPEX and OPEX through metro-access consolidation. In the proposed system, the VPN data is separated from conventional U/S and re-modulated on the D/S carrier by using RSOA in the ONUs to avoid bandwidth consumption of U/S and D/S unlike in previously reported system. Moreover, the transmitted VPN data is re-directed to the ONUs by wavelength selective reflector device in the RN without passing through the OLT. Experimental demonstration for the VPN communication system in an OFDM based LR-PON has been verified.
Beyond classic risk adjustment: Socioeconomic status and hospital performance in urologic oncology surgery.

PubMed

Odisho, Anobel Y; Etzioni, Ruth; Gore, John L

2018-06-15

Safety-net hospitals (SNHs) care for more patients of low socioeconomic status (SES) than non-SNHs and are disproportionately punished under SES-naive Medicare readmission risk-adjustment models. This study was designed to develop a risk-adjustment framework that incorporates SES and to assess the impact on readmission rates. California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development data from 2007 to 2011 were used to identify patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) for bladder cancer (n = 3771) or partial nephrectomy (PN; n = 5556) or radical nephrectomy (RN; n = 13,136) for kidney cancer. Unadjusted hospital rankings and predicted rankings under models simulating the Medicare Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program were compared with predicted rankings under models incorporating SES and hospital factors. SES, derived from a multifactorial neighborhood score, was calculated from US Census data. The 30-day readmission rate was 26.1% for RC, 8.3% for RN, and 9.5% for PN. The addition of SES, geographic, and hospital factors changed hospital rankings significantly in comparison with the base model (P < .01) except for SES for RC (P = .07) and SES and rural factors for PN (P = .12). For RN and PN, the addition of SES predicted lower percentile ranks for SNHs and thus improved observed-to-expected rankings (P < .01). For RC, there were no changes in hospital rankings. SES is important for risk adjustments for complex surgical procedures such as RC. Patient SES affects overall hospital rankings across cohorts, and critically, it differentially and punitively affects rankings for SNHs for some procedures. Cancer 2018. © 2018 American Cancer Society. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Recent Experimental Advances to Determine (noble) Gases in Waters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kipfer, R.; Brennwald, M. S.; Huxol, S.; Mächler, L.; Maden, C.; Vogel, N.; Tomonaga, Y.

2013-12-01

In aquatic systems noble gases, radon, and bio-geochemically conservative transient trace gases (SF6, CFCs) are frequently applied to determine water residence times and to reconstruct past environmental and climatic conditions. Recent experimental breakthroughs now enable ● to apply the well-established concepts of terrestrial noble gas geochemistry in waters to the minute water amounts stored in sediment pore space and in fluid inclusions (A), ● to determine gas exchange processes on the bio-geochemical relevant time scales of minutes - hours (B), and ● to separate diffusive and advective gas transport in soil air (C). A. Noble-gas analysis in water samples (< 1 g) facilitates determining the solute transport in the pore space and identifying the origin of bio- and geogenic fluids in (un) consolidated sediments [1]. Advanced techniques that combine crushing and sieving speleothem samples in ultra-high-vacuum to a specific grain size allow to separate air and water-bearing fluid inclusions and thus enables noble-gas-based reconstruction of environmental conditions from water masses as small as 1mg [2]. B. The coupling of noble gas analysis with approaches of gas chromatography permits combined analysis of noble gases and other gases species (e.g., SF6, CFCs, O2, N2) from a single water sample. The new method substantially improves ground water dating by SF6 and CFCs as excess air is quantified from the same sample and hence can adequately be corrected for [3]. Portable membrane-inlet mass spectrometers enable the quasi-continuous and real-time analysis of noble gases and other dissolved gases directly in the field, allowing, for instance, quantification of O2 turnover rates on small time scales [4]. C. New technical developments perfect 222Rn analysis in water by the synchronous the determination of the short-lived 220Rn. The combined 220,222Rn analysis sheds light on the emanation behaviour of radon by identifying soil water content to be the crucial control of 220Rn occurrence in the environment, e.g., making an argument why 220Rn is not detectable in water, but in soil air. As 220Rn occurrence is of 'very local origin' the combined analysis of 220,222Rn in soil air allows differentiating between advective and diffusive soil gas transport [5]. By discussing these recent achievements, we intend to stimulate a broader discussion to identify future applications of noble and other gases in (un) conventional aquatic systems, such as blood. [1] Tomonaga et al. (2011) Limnol. Oceanogr. Methods, 9, 42-49, doi:10:4319/lom.2011.9.42. [2] Vogel et al. (2013) Geochem. Geophys. Geosyst., 14, doi:10.1002/ggge.20164. [3] Brennwald et al. (2013) Environ. Sci. Technol., Article ASAP, DOI: 10.1021/es401698p. [4] Mächler et al. (2012) Environ. Sci. Technol., 47, 7060-7066. [5] Huxol et al. Environ. Sci. Technol., in revision.
General Education Requirements in a Community College Baccalaureate RN-to-BSN Program

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Krupp, Jason Bentley

2012-01-01

Increasing demand for nurses with bachelor degrees, the growing culture of accountability in higher education, and the community college baccalaureate phenomena provided the impetus for this study. This ex-post facto quantitative study examined the graduation rates and time to degree of 240 students who were enrolled in a bachelor of science in…
Efficacy of Adjunctive Sleep Interventions for PTSD

DTIC Science & Technology

2009-03-01

MURI; BAA 08-019: Topic #1; PI: M. Hall, University of Pittsburgh). This multidisciplinary translational project focuses on investigating sleep...rate variability (high & low frequency) CAPS Part 2 PTSD symptom checklist (civilian version) Beck Depression Inventory Beck Anxiety...be completed by a CNRC RN) PTSD symptom checklist (civilian version) Beck Depression Inventory Beck Anxiety Inventory Inventory of
Short-lived Rn-222 daughters in cryogenic liquids

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pelczar, Krzysztof; Frodyma, Nikodem; Wójcik, Marcin

In this paper a detection method of α emitters from {sup 222}Rn decay chain, present in cryogenic liquids, using bare Si-PIN diodes immersed in the liquids is presented. Properties of ionized {sup 222}Rn daughters deduced from conducted measurements are outlined. Life-time of positive ions was found to be of the order of 10 s, and nonzero content of electronegative ions was observed.
The CE3R Network: current status and future perspectives

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lenhardt, Wolfgang; Pesaresi, Damiano; Živčić, Mladen; Costa, Giovanni; Kuk, Kresimir; Bondár, István; Duni, Llambro; Spacek, Petr

2016-04-01

In order to improve the monitoring of seismic activities in the border regions and to enhance the collaboration between countries and seismological institutions in Central Europe, the Environment Agency of the Slovenian Republic (ARSO), the Italian National Institute for Oceanography and Experimental Geophysics (OGS), the University of Trieste (UniTS) and the Austrian Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics (ZAMG) established in 2001 the "South Eastern Alps Transfrontier Seismological Network". In May 2014 ARSO, OGS, UniTS and ZAMG agreed to formalize the transfrontier network, to name it "Central and East European Earthquake Research Network", (CE3RN or CE3R Network) in order to locate it geographically since cross-border networks can be established in other areas of the world and to expand their cooperation, including institutions in other countries. The University of Zagreb (UniZG) joined CE3RN in October 2014. The Kövesligethy Radó Seismological Observatory (KRSZO) of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences joined CE3RN in October 2015. The Institute of Geosciences, Energy, Water and Environment (IGEWE) of the Polytechnic University of Tirana joined CE3RN in November 2015. The Institute of Physics of the Earth (IPE) of the Masaryk University in Brno joined CE3RN in November 2015. CE3RN Parties intend to formalize and possibly extend their ongoing cooperation in the field of seismological data acquisition, exchange and use for seismological and earthquake engineering and civil protection purposes. The purpose of this cooperation is to retain and expand the existing cross-border network, specify the rules of conduct in the network management, improvements, extensions and enlargements, enhance seismological research in the region, and support civil protection activities. Since the formal establishment of CE3RN, several common projects have been completed, like the SeismoSAT project for the seismic data center connection over satellite funded by the Interreg IV-A Italy-Austria program, and the Earthquake Early Warning System (EEWS) PRESTo@CE3RN. We will here briefly introduce original and new CE3RN Parties, with a synthesis of the common results achieved so far and an indication of possible future developments.
Testing the usefulness of 222Rn to complement conventional hydrochemical data to trace groundwater provenance in complex multi-layered aquifers. Application to the Úbeda aquifer system (Jaén, SE Spain).

PubMed

Ortega, L; Manzano, M; Rodríguez-Arévalo, J

2017-12-01

The Úbeda aquifer system is a multi-layered aquifer intensively exploited for irrigation. It covers 1100km 2 and consists of piled up sedimentary aquifer and aquitard layers from Triassic sandstones and clays at the bottom, to Jurassic carbonates (main exploited layer) in the middle, and Miocene sandstones and marls at the top. Flow network modification by intense exploitation and the existence of deep faults favour vertical mixing of waters from different layers and with distinct chemical composition. This induces quality loss and fosters risk of quantity restrictions. To support future groundwater abstraction management, a hydrogeochemical (major and some minor solutes) and isotopic ( 222 Rn) study was performed to identify the chemical signatures of the different layers and their mixing proportions in mixed samples. The study of 134 groundwater samples allowed a preliminary identification of hydrochemical signatures and mixtures, but the existence of reducing conditions in the most exploited sector prevents the utility of sulphate as a tracer of Triassic groundwater in the Jurassic boreholes. The potential of 222 Rn to establish isotopic signatures and to trace groundwater provenance in mixtures was tested. 222 Rn was measured in 48 samples from springs and boreholes in most aquifer layers. At first, clear correlations were observed between 222 Rn, Cl and SO 4 in groundwater. Afterwards, very good correlations were observed between 222 Rn and the chemical facies of the different layers established with End Member Mixing Analysis (EMMA). Using 222 Rn as part of the signatures, EMMA helped to identify end-member samples, and to quantify the mixing proportions of water from the Triassic and the Deep Miocene layers in groundwater pumped by deep agricultural wells screened in the Jurassic. The incorporation of 222 Rn to the study also allowed identifying the impact of irrigation returns through the association of moderate NO 3 , Cl, and Br contents with very low 222 Rn activities. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier B.V.
Machine learning methods as a tool to analyse incomplete or irregularly sampled radon time series data.

PubMed

Janik, M; Bossew, P; Kurihara, O

2018-07-15

Machine learning is a class of statistical techniques which has proven to be a powerful tool for modelling the behaviour of complex systems, in which response quantities depend on assumed controls or predictors in a complicated way. In this paper, as our first purpose, we propose the application of machine learning to reconstruct incomplete or irregularly sampled data of time series indoor radon ( 222 Rn). The physical assumption underlying the modelling is that Rn concentration in the air is controlled by environmental variables such as air temperature and pressure. The algorithms "learn" from complete sections of multivariate series, derive a dependence model and apply it to sections where the controls are available, but not the response (Rn), and in this way complete the Rn series. Three machine learning techniques are applied in this study, namely random forest, its extension called the gradient boosting machine and deep learning. For a comparison, we apply the classical multiple regression in a generalized linear model version. Performance of the models is evaluated through different metrics. The performance of the gradient boosting machine is found to be superior to that of the other techniques. By applying learning machines, we show, as our second purpose, that missing data or periods of Rn series data can be reconstructed and resampled on a regular grid reasonably, if data of appropriate physical controls are available. The techniques also identify to which degree the assumed controls contribute to imputing missing Rn values. Our third purpose, though no less important from the viewpoint of physics, is identifying to which degree physical, in this case environmental variables, are relevant as Rn predictors, or in other words, which predictors explain most of the temporal variability of Rn. We show that variables which contribute most to the Rn series reconstruction, are temperature, relative humidity and day of the year. The first two are physical predictors, while "day of the year" is a statistical proxy or surrogate for missing or unknown predictors. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Evidence for a Right-Ear Advantage in Newborn Hearing Screening Results.

PubMed

Ari-Even Roth, Daphne; Hildesheimer, Minka; Roziner, Ilan; Henkin, Yael

2016-12-06

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of ear asymmetry, order of testing, and gender on transient-evoked otoacoustic emission (TEOAE) pass rates and response levels in newborn hearing screening. The screening results of 879 newborns, of whom 387 (study group) passed screening successfully in only one ear in the first TEOAE screening, but passed screening successfully in both ears thereafter, and 492 (control group) who passed screening successfully in both ears in the first TEOAE, were retrospectively examined for pass rates and TEOAE characteristics. Results indicated a right-ear advantage, as manifested by significantly higher pass rates in the right ear (61% and 39% for right and left ears, respectively) in the study group, and in 1.75 dB greater TEOAE response amplitudes in the control group. The right-ear advantage was enhanced when the first tested ear was the right ear (76%). When the left ear was tested first, pass rates were comparable in both ears. The right-ear advantage in pass rates was similar in females versus males, but manifested in 1.5 dB higher response amplitudes in females compared with males, regardless of the tested ear and order of testing in both study and control groups. The study provides further evidence for the functional lateralization of the auditory system at the cochlear level already apparent soon after birth in both males and females. While order of testing plays a significant role in the asymmetry in pass rates, the innate right-ear advantage seems to be a more dominant contributor. © The Author(s) 2016.
Evidence for a Right-Ear Advantage in Newborn Hearing Screening Results

PubMed Central

Hildesheimer, Minka; Roziner, Ilan; Henkin, Yael

2016-01-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of ear asymmetry, order of testing, and gender on transient-evoked otoacoustic emission (TEOAE) pass rates and response levels in newborn hearing screening. The screening results of 879 newborns, of whom 387 (study group) passed screening successfully in only one ear in the first TEOAE screening, but passed screening successfully in both ears thereafter, and 492 (control group) who passed screening successfully in both ears in the first TEOAE, were retrospectively examined for pass rates and TEOAE characteristics. Results indicated a right-ear advantage, as manifested by significantly higher pass rates in the right ear (61% and 39% for right and left ears, respectively) in the study group, and in 1.75 dB greater TEOAE response amplitudes in the control group. The right-ear advantage was enhanced when the first tested ear was the right ear (76%). When the left ear was tested first, pass rates were comparable in both ears. The right-ear advantage in pass rates was similar in females versus males, but manifested in 1.5 dB higher response amplitudes in females compared with males, regardless of the tested ear and order of testing in both study and control groups. The study provides further evidence for the functional lateralization of the auditory system at the cochlear level already apparent soon after birth in both males and females. While order of testing plays a significant role in the asymmetry in pass rates, the innate right-ear advantage seems to be a more dominant contributor. PMID:27927982
Use of 222Rn as natural tracer for LNAPL quantification and recovery efficiency in a crude-oil contaminated aquifer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ponsin, Violaine; Chablais, Amélie; Dumont, Julien; Cardetti, Marc; Radakovitch, Olivier; Höhener, Patrick

2014-05-01

In august 2009, five hectares of the pristine gravel aquifer of Crau in southern France were contaminated by 5,100 m3 of crude oil due to the sudden break of a pipeline. The remediation of this site is still ongoing and consists in replacement and off-site disposal of contaminated topsoils, plume management by hydraulic groundwater barriers with re-injection of activated charcoal-treated waters, and dual-phase LNAPL extraction in the source zone. It is anticipated to stop these remediation actions when the rate of hydrocarbon extraction becomes inefficient. The volume of LNAPL is estimated between 100 and 1000 m3. A more accurate estimation is needed for the implementation of natural attenuation once physical treatment is discontinued. 222Rn has been introduced as a natural tracer for the quantification of LNAPL saturation in porous media under natural gradient conditions (Hunkeler et al., 1997; Semprini et al., 2000; Schubert et al., 2007). The objective of this study was to investigate whether 222Rn in groundwater can be used as a tracer for LNAPL quantification at a field site treated by LNAPL removal. To this end, groundwater samples were obtained in pristine monitoring wells from upgradient the contamination using submersible electric pumps, and in LNAPL recovery wells. There, samples were obtained from the tap on the hard PVC tubing used for pumping groundwater to the treatment facility. For 222Rn analysis, flasks of 250 mL were gently filled and were capped thereafter without permitting air bubbles. The flasks were analysed within 6 to 24 hours. The 222Rn activity of groundwater was measured by a Rn detector (RAD7-Durridge, Co. Inc.). The measurements were spaced over more than 15 months in order to account for seasonal changes. Each well was sampled at least 3 times. In pristine groundwater, the radon activity was relatively constant and remained always > 14 Bq/L. The radon activities in the groundwater of source zone wells were also relatively constant and the mean activities were generally significantly lower than upgradient. This is due to partitioning into the oil phase. Decreases were correlated with NAPL recovery efficiency. The laboratory-determined crude oil-water partitioning coefficient of 38,5 ± 2,9 was used for estimating LNAPL saturation in each recovery well. However, extrapolations of LNAPL saturations to whole-site oil volume estimations are difficult since at low water tables, the volume in the capillary fringe is not assessed. Nevertheless, we find that 222Rn is a useful and cheap groundwater tracer for finding zones of good LNAPL recovery in a heavily pumped aquifer. Hunkeler, D., E. Hoehn, P. Höhener and J. Zeyer, 1997. 222Rn as a partitioning tracer to detect mineral oil contaminations: laboratory experiments and field study. Environmental Science and Technology 31, 3180-3187. Semprini, L., O.S. Hopkins and B.R. Tasker, 2000. Laboratory, field and modeling studies of radon-222 as a natural tracer for monitoring NAPL contamination. Transport in Porous Media 38, 223-240. Schubert, M., A. Paschke, S. Lau, W. Geyer and K. Knöller, 2007. Radon as a naturally occurring tracer for the assessment of residual NAPL contamination of aquifers. Environmental Pollution 145, 920-927.
Implementation of laser induced fluorescence in a pulse radiolysis experiment--a new way to analyze resazurin-like reduction mechanisms.

PubMed

Balcerzyk, A; Baldacchino, G

2014-04-07

Resazurin (RNO) reduction by hydrated electrons produces a fluorescent molecule: resorufin (RN). To take advantage of RN fluorescence, a novel setup is designed by implementing fluorescence detection induced by laser in a pulse radiolysis experiment. Time resolved fluorescence spectra were recorded with a fast gated intensified CCD camera during the reduction of RNO from μs to ms. Two 532 nm laser types have been used to describe the short μs range by a 5 ns Q-switch laser and the μs-ms range by a CW DPSS laser. By fitting the simulated model to the experimental data a second order rate constant of 10(9) M(-1) s(-1) was re-evaluated. This method should be considered in the near future in many in situ and real time measurements for evaluating radical production.
A community college model to support nursing workforce diversity.

PubMed

Colville, Janet; Cottom, Sherry; Robinette, Teresa; Wald, Holly; Waters, Tomi

2015-02-01

Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), Allegheny Campus, is situated on the North Side of Pittsburgh. The neighborhood is 60% African American. At the time of the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) application, approximately one third of the students admitted to the program were African American, less than one third of whom successfully completed it. With the aid of HRSA funding, CCAC developed a model that significantly improved the success rate of disadvantaged students. Through the formation of a viable cohort, the nursing faculty nurtured success among the most at-risk students. The cohort was supported by a social worker, case managers who were nursing faculty, and tutors. Students formed study groups, actively participated in community activities, and developed leadership skills through participation in the Student Nurse Association of Pennsylvania. This article provides the rationale for the Registered Nurse (RN) Achievement Model, describes the components of RN Achievement, and discusses the outcomes of the initiative.
The 150 Credit-Hour Requirement and CPA Examination Pass Rates--A Four Year Study

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Briggs, Gary P.; He, Lerong

2012-01-01

Debate concerning the minimum educational requirements of certified public accountant (CPA) candidates in the USA has been taking place for decades. This paper compares the sectional pass rates of CPA candidates from jurisdictions requiring 150 credit hours of college study with the pass rates of candidates from jurisdictions not requiring 150…

Impact of Online Summer Mathematics Bridge Program on Placement Scores and Pass Rates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Frost, Jodi L.; Dreher, J. P.

2017-01-01

An online four-week summer mathematics bridge program was implemented at a Midwest university with historically low pass rates in College Algebra and Remedial Mathematics. Students who completed the four week program significantly increased their mathematics placement exam scores. These students also had a higher pass rate in their initial college…
The Dubious Utility of the Value-Added Concept in Higher Education: The Case of Accounting

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yunker, J.A.

2005-01-01

Using data on CPA exam pass rates and various institutional variables, this research examines the potential usefulness of the value-added concept in accounting higher education. For a sample of 548 US colleges and universities, predicted pass rates were computed from regression equations relating observed pass rates to institutional variables. The…
Partial Nephrectomy Versus Radical Nephrectomy for Clinical T1b and T2 Renal Tumors: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Comparative Studies.

PubMed

Mir, Maria Carmen; Derweesh, Ithaar; Porpiglia, Francesco; Zargar, Homayoun; Mottrie, Alexandre; Autorino, Riccardo

2017-04-01

Partial nephrectomy (PN) is the reference standard of management for a cT1a renal mass. However, its role in the management of larger tumors (cT1b and cT2) is still under scrutiny. To conduct a meta-analysis assessing functional, oncologic, and perioperative outcomes of PN and radical nephrectomy (RN) in the specific case of larger renal tumors (≥cT1b). The primary endpoint was an overall analysis of cT1b and cT2 masses. The secondary endpoint was a sensitivity analysis for cT2 only. A systematic literature review was performed up to December 2015 using multiple search engines to identify eligible comparative studies. A formal meta-analysis was performed for studies comparing PN to RN for both cT1b and cT2 tumors. In addition, a sensitivity analysis including the subgroup of studies comparing PN to RN for cT2 only was conducted. Pooled estimates were calculated using a fixed-effects model if no significant heterogeneity was identified; alternatively, a random-effects model was used when significant heterogeneity was detected. For continuous outcomes, the weighted mean difference (WMD) was used as summary measure. For binary variables, the odds ratio (OR) or risk ratio (RR) was calculated with 95% confidence interval (CI). Statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager 5 (Cochrane Collaboration, Oxford, UK). Overall, 21 case-control studies including 11204 patients (RN 8620; PN 2584) were deemed eligible and included in the analysis. Patients undergoing PN were younger (WMD -2.3 yr; p<0.001) and had smaller masses (WMD -0.65cm; p<0.001). Lower estimated blood loss was found for RN (WMD 102.6ml; p<0.001). There was a higher likelihood of postoperative complications for PN (RR 1.74, 95% CI 1.34-2.2; p<0.001). Pathology revealed a higher rate of malignant histology for the RN group (RR 0.97; p=0.02). PN was associated with better postoperative renal function, as shown by higher postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR; WMD 12.4ml/min; p<0.001), lower likelihood of postoperative onset of chronic kidney disease (RR 0.36; p<0.001), and lower decline in eGFR (WMD -8.6ml/min; p<0.001). The PN group had a lower likelihood of tumor recurrence (OR 0.6; p<0.001), cancer-specific mortality (OR 0.58; p=0.001), and all-cause mortality (OR 0.67; p=0.005). Four studies compared PN (n=212) to RN (n=1792) in the specific case of T2 tumors (>7cm). In this subset of patients, the estimated blood loss was higher for PN (WMD 107.6ml; p<0.001), as was the likelihood of complications (RR 2.0; p<0.001). Both the recurrence rate (RR 0.61; p=0.004) and cancer-specific mortality (RR 0.65; p=0.03) were lower for PN. PN is a viable treatment option for larger renal tumors, as it offers acceptable surgical morbidity, equivalent cancer control, and better preservation of renal function, with potential for better long-term survival. For T2 tumors, PN use should be more selective, and specific patient and tumor factors should be considered. Further investigation, ideally in a prospective randomized fashion, is warranted to better define the role of PN in this challenging clinical scenario. We performed a cumulative analysis of the literature to determine the best treatment option in cases of localized kidney tumor of higher clinical stage (T1b and T2, as based on preoperative imaging). Our findings suggest that removing only the tumor and saving the kidney might be an effective treatment modality in terms of cancer control, with the advantage of preserving the kidney function. However, a higher risk of perioperative complications should be taken into account when facing larger tumors (clinical stage T2) with kidney-sparing surgery. Copyright © 2016 European Association of Urology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
The fundamentals of integrating service in a post-licensure RN to BSN program.

PubMed

Washington-Brown, Linda; Ritchie, Arlene

2014-01-01

Integrating service in a post-licensure registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing (RN to BSN) program provides licensed registered nurse (RN) students the opportunity to learn, develop, and experience different cultures while serving the community and populations in need (McKinnon & Fitzpatrick, 2012). Service to the community, integrated with academic learning can be applied in a wide variety of settings, including schools, universities, and community faith-based organizations. Academic service-learning (ASL) can involve a group of students, a classroom, or an entire school. In the RN to BSN program, the authors use a student-directed service learning approach that integrates service-learning throughout the curriculum. RN students are introduced to service-learning at program orientation prior to the start of classes and receive reinforcement and active engagement throughout the curriculum. The students and volunteer agencies receive and give benefits from the services provided and the life lessons gained through mentorship, education, and hands-on experiences.
Grundwasserzufluss zum Steißlinger See und Folgen für die Wasserchemie

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gilfedder, Benjamin; Peiffer, Stefan; Pöschke, Franziska; Spirkaneder, Andrea

2018-06-01

Groundwater can play an important role in lake water and chemical budgets. The aim of this study was to map and quantify groundwater discharge to Lake Steißlingen, a small lake in south-west Germany, using Rn as a natural groundwater tracer. 222Rn, nutrients, temperature and oxygen concentration were measured in depth profiles and in sediment-near water samples during April and June 2016. The spatial distribution of Rn activities (max. 944 Bq m-3) showed that groundwater discharges into the middle of the lake and along the northeastern shore from springs in the hypolimnion (11-14 m depth). Based on a Rn mass-balance groundwater accounts for 70% of the total water input (GWflux = 11 l s-1) to the lake. There were significant positive correlations between methane and nitrite with Rn activity, suggesting the groundwater as a common source. Overall the inflow of groundwater causes a deterioration in lake water quality.
Year-to-year variations in annual average indoor 222Rn concentrations.

PubMed

Martz, D E; Rood, A S; George, J L; Pearson, M D; Langner, G H

1991-09-01

Annual average indoor 222Rn concentrations in 40 residences in and around Grand Junction, CO, have been measured repeatedly since 1984 using commercial alpha-track monitors (ATM) deployed for successive 12-mo time periods. Data obtained provide a quantitative measure of the year-to-year variations in the annual average Rn concentrations in these structures over this 6-y period. A mean coefficient of variation of 25% was observed for the year-to-year variability of the measurements at 25 sampling stations for which complete data were available. Individual coefficients of variation at the various stations ranged from a low of 7.7% to a high of 51%. The observed mean coefficient of variation includes contributions due to the variability in detector response as well as the true year-to-year variation in the annual average Rn concentrations. Factoring out the contributions from the measured variability in the response of the detectors used, the actual year-to-year variability of the annual average Rn concentrations was approximately 22%.
Antiretroviral Therapy-Induced Mitochondrial Toxicity: Potential Mechanisms Beyond Polymerase-γ Inhibition

PubMed Central

Selvaraj, Shanmugapriya; Ghebremichael, Musie; Li, Min; Foli, Yram; Langs-Barlow, Allison; Ogbuagu, Arit; Barakat, Lydia; Tubridy, Elizabeth; Edifor, Regina; Lam, Wing; Cheng, Yung-Chi; Paintsil, Elijah

2014-01-01

We hypothesized that competition between NRTI-triphosphate and endogenous deoxyribonucleoside triphosphate (dNTP) may lead to depletion of dNTP pools and mitochondrial dysfunction independent of Pol-γ inhibition. We collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 75 adults (25 cases: HIV-infected with mitochondrial toxicity, 25 HIV-infected positive controls, and 25 HIV-negative controls). We observed statistically significant individual and group differences in ribonucleotide (RN) and deoxyribonucleotide (dRN) pools. The median RN pool was 10062 (IQR, 7090 – 12590), 4360 (IQR, 3058 –6838), and 2968 (IQR, 2538 – 4436) pmol/106 cells for negative controls, positive controls, and cases, respectively. Cases had significantly higher absolute mtDNA copy number compared to negative controls (p<0.05). Cases had significantly higher expression of Pol-γ, nucleoside transporters, cellular kinases, and ABC compared to controls. Antiretroviral therapy perturbs ribonucleotide and deoxyribonucleotide pools. Depletion of RN and dRN pools may be associated with ART-induced mitochondrial toxicity independent of Pol-γ inhibition. PMID:24637942
Teaching Informatics to Prelicensure, RN-to-BSN, and Graduate Level Students.

PubMed

Vottero, Beth

Teaching nursing informatics to students in associate, baccalaureate, RN-BSN, and graduate nursing programs poses challenges for curriculum design, as well as developing appropriate instruction and assessment methods. The current state of nursing informatics education provides opportunities for unique instructional design and assessment techniques. Key course content is provided with suggestions for teaching informatics that focus on leveling for prelicensure, RN-BSN, and graduate nursing programs.
Rn gravity is kicking and alive: The cases of Orion and NGC 3198

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salucci, Paolo; Frigerio Martins, Christiane; Karukes, Ekaterina

2014-08-01

We analyzed the Rotation Curves (RCs) of two crucial objects, the dwarf galaxy Orion and the low luminosity Spiral NGC 3198, in the framework of Rn gravity. We surprisingly found that the no dark matter (DM) power-law F(R) case fits them well, performing much better than LCDM halo models. The level of this unexpected success can be a boost for Rn gravity.
Logic programming reveals alteration of key transcription factors in multiple myeloma.

PubMed

Miannay, Bertrand; Minvielle, Stéphane; Roux, Olivier; Drouin, Pierre; Avet-Loiseau, Hervé; Guérin-Charbonnel, Catherine; Gouraud, Wilfried; Attal, Michel; Facon, Thierry; Munshi, Nikhil C; Moreau, Philippe; Campion, Loïc; Magrangeas, Florence; Guziolowski, Carito

2017-08-23

Innovative approaches combining regulatory networks (RN) and genomic data are needed to extract biological information for a better understanding of diseases, such as cancer, by improving the identification of entities and thereby leading to potential new therapeutic avenues. In this study, we confronted an automatically generated RN with gene expression profiles (GEP) from a cohort of multiple myeloma (MM) patients and normal individuals using global reasoning on the RN causality to identify key-nodes. We modeled each patient by his or her GEP, the RN and the possible automatically detected repairs needed to establish a coherent flow of the information that explains the logic of the GEP. These repairs could represent cancer mutations leading to GEP variability. With this reasoning, unmeasured protein states can be inferred, and we can simulate the impact of a protein perturbation on the RN behavior to identify therapeutic targets. We showed that JUN/FOS and FOXM1 activities are altered in almost all MM patients and identified two survival markers for MM patients. Our results suggest that JUN/FOS-activation has a strong impact on the RN in view of the whole GEP, whereas FOXM1-activation could be an interesting way to perturb an MM subgroup identified by our method.
An intercomparison for NIRS and NYU passive thoron gas detectors at NYU.

PubMed

Sorimachi, Atsuyuki; Ishikawa, Tetsuo; Tokonami, Shinji; Chittaporn, Passaporn; Harley, Naomi H

2012-04-01

An intercomparison on thoron ((220)Rn) measurement was carried out between National Institute of Radiological Sciences, Japan (NIRS), and New York University School of Medicine, USA (NYU). The measurements of (220)Rn concentration at NIRS and NYU were performed by using the scintillation cell method and the two-filter method, respectively, as the standard measurement method. Three types of alpha track detectors based on passive radon ((222)Rn)-(220)Rn discriminative measurement technique were used: Raduet and Radopot detectors were used at NIRS, and four-leaf detectors were used at NYU. In this study, the authors evaluated (220)Rn concentration variation in terms of run for exposure, measurement method, and exposure chamber. The detectors were exposed to (220)Rn gas with approximately 15 kBq m(-3) during the period from 0.75 to 3 d. As a result, the variation of each measurement method among these exposure runs was comparable to or less than that for the two-filter method. Agreement between the standard measurement methods of NIRS and NYU was observed to be about 10%, as is the case with the passive detectors. The Raduet detector showed a large variation in the detection response between the NIRS and NYU chambers, which could be related to different traceability.
[Geochemical characteristics of radon and mercury in soil gas in Lhasa, Tibet, China].

PubMed

Zhou, Xiao-Cheng; Du, Jian-Guo; Wang, Chuan-Yuan; Cao, Zhong-Quan; Yi, Li; Liu, Lei

2007-03-01

The geochemical characteristics of radon and mercury in soil gas in Lhasa and vicinity are investigated based on the measurements of Rn and Hg concentrations, and environmental quality for Rn and Hg in soil gas was evaluated by means of the index of geoaccumulation. The data of Rn and Hg of 1 579 sampling site indicate that the values of environmental-geochemical background of Rn and Hg are 7 634.9 Bq/m3, 41.5 ng/m3 with standard deviations of 2.7 Bq/m3, 2.2 ng/m3, respectively. The environmental quality for Rn in soil gas is better in the west and east parts of studied area, but becomes moderate pollution (level III) in the north part of the central area. Rn is derived from radioactive elements in granitic sediments in the intermountain basin and granite base, which are the major sources of pollution. The environmental quality for Hg in soil gas becomes gradually polluted from the suburban to the center of urban, and the highest pollution reaches level IV. The background of Hg in soil gas is mainly controlled by compositions of sediments, but the Hg pollution caused by human waste and religionary use of mercury.
Does administering a comprehensive examination affect pass rates on the Registered Health Information Administrator certification examination?

PubMed

McNeill, Marjorie H

2009-01-01

The purpose of this research study was to determine whether the administration of a comprehensive examination before graduation increases the percentage of students passing the Registered Health Information Administrator certification examination. A t-test for independent means yielded a statistically significant difference between the Registered Health Information Administrator certification examination pass rates of health information administration programs that administer a comprehensive examination and programs that do not administer a comprehensive examination. Programs with a high certification examination pass rate do not require a comprehensive examination when compared with those programs with a lower pass rate. It is concluded that health information administration faculty at the local level should perform program self-analysis to improve student progress toward achievement of learning outcomes and entry-level competencies.
Doses from radon 222 irradiation for workers of the granite mining industry.

PubMed

Сrygorieva, L; Tomilin, Yu

2017-12-01

determining the integral value of annual effective dose from 222Rn for workers of the granite mining industry and assessment for the expected life effective dose from 222Rn. Materials were the results of measurements of external exposure dose of radiation measurements equiv alent equilibrium volume activity of 222Rn in workrooms and workplaces of major groups of granite quarry workers Mykolaiv region, studies EROA 222Rn air premises of these workers, research content 222Rn in drinking water. Granite quarry workers receive double radiation exposure of 222Rn due to exposure in the workplace and at home. The load in the workplace due to inhalation of 222Rn the air was (2.1 ± 0.2) mSv / year (vari ation 0.9-5.9) in a residential area - (4,1 ± 0,2) mSv/year (variation 1.8-5.9). The total annual effective dose from internal exposure from air flow and working premises and drinking water was on average (6,5 ± 0,2) mSv/year, equal to a maximum value of 20 mSv/year. The expected life for the chronic exposure dose of technological naturally occurring radioactive sources for people who work in the granite quarries and, while living in high risk from radon is in the range of 0.16-1.12 Sv. The research results indicate that in assessing the effects associated with exposure due to radon 222 contingents persons such surveys must take into account all sources of this radionuclide dose. L. Сrygorieva, Yu. Tomilin.
Exhalation of (222)Rn from phosphogypsum piles located at the Southwest of Spain.

PubMed

Dueñas, C; Liger, E; Cañete, S; Pérez, M; Bolívar, J P

2007-01-01

Phosphogypsum (PG) is a waste product of the phosphoric acid production process and contains, generally, high activity concentrations of uranium series radionuclides. It is stored in piles formed over the last 40 years close to the town of Huelva (Southwest of Spain). The very broad expanse of the PG piles (about 1200 ha) produces a local, but unambiguous, radioactive impact to their surroundings. In 1992, the regional government of Andalusia restored an area of 400 ha by covering it with a 25-cm thick layer of natural soil and, currently, there is an additional zone of 400 ha in course of restoration (unrestored) and the same area of active PG stacks. Due to the high activity concentration of (226)Ra in active PG stacks (average 647 Bq kg(-1)), a significant exhalation of (222)Rn could be produced from the surface of the piles. Measurements have been made of (222)Rn exhalation from active PG stacks and from restored and unrestored zones. The (222)Rn exhalation from unrestored zones is half of that of the active PG stacks. Following restoration, the (222)Rn exhalation is approximately eight times lower than the active PG stacks. The activity concentrations of natural radionuclides ((226)Ra, (40)K, (232)Th) in the mentioned zones have been determined. This study was also conducted to determine the effect of (226)Ra activity concentration on the (222)Rn exhalation, and a good correlation was obtained between the (222)Rn exhalation and (226)Ra activity, porosity and density of soil.
Patient-controlled oral analgesia for postoperative pain management following total knee replacement

PubMed Central

Kastanias, Patti; Gowans, Sue; Tumber, Paul S; Snaith, Kianda; Robinson, Sandra

2010-01-01

PURPOSE: To investigate whether patient-controlled oral analgesia (PCOA) used by individuals receiving a total knee replacement could reduce pain, increase patient satisfaction, reduce opioid use and/or reduce opioid side effects when compared with traditional nurse (RN)-administered oral analgesia. METHODS: Patients who underwent an elective total knee replacement at a quaternary care centre (Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario) were randomly assigned to either PCOA or RN-administered short-acting oral opioids on postoperative day 2. Subjects in the RN group called the RN to receive their prescribed short-acting opioid. Subjects in the PCOA group kept a single dose of their prescribed oral opioid at their bedside and took this dose when they felt they needed it, to a maximum of one dose every 2 h. Study outcomes, collected on postoperative day 2, included pain (measured by the Brief Pain Inventory – Short Form), patient satisfaction (measured by the Pain Outcome Questionnaire Satisfaction sub-scale – component II), opioid use (oral morphine equivalents), opioid side effects (nausea, pruritis and/or constipation) and knee measures (maximum passive knee flexion and pain at maximum passive knee flexion, performed on the operative knee). RESULTS: Study outcomes were analyzed twice. First, for a subset of 73 subjects who remained in their randomly assigned group (PCOA group, n=36; RN group, n=37), randomized analyses were performed. Second, for the larger sample of 88 subjects who were categorized by their actual method of receiving oral opioids (PCOA group, n=41; RN group, n=47), as-treated analyses were performed. There were no differences in study outcomes between the PCOA and RN groups in either analysis. CONCLUSION: PCOA was not superior to RN administration on study outcomes. However, PCOA did not increase opioid use or pain. PCOA remains an important element in the patient-centred care facility. PMID:20195553
Meta-analysis of cannabinoid ligand binding affinity and receptor distribution: interspecies differences

PubMed Central

McPartland, J M; Glass, M; Pertwee, R G

2007-01-01

A meta-analysis, unlike a literature review, synthesizes previous studies into new results. Pooled data from 211 studies measured ligand binding affinities at human (Hs) or rat (Rn) cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2. Cochrane methods were modified for this non-clinical analysis. Meta-regression detected data heterogeneity arising from methodological factors: use of sectioned tissues, lack of PMSF and choice of radioligand. Native brain tissues exhibited greater affinity (lower nM) than transfected cells, but the trend fell short of significance, as did the trend between centrifugation and filtration methods. Correcting for heterogeneity, mean Ki values for Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol differed significantly between HsCB1 and RnCB1 (25.1 and 42.6 nM, respectively) but not between HsCB1 and HsCB2 (25.1 and 35.2). Mean Kd values for HsCB1, RnCB1 and HsCB2 of CP55,940 (2.5, 0.98, 0.92) and WIN55,212-2 (16.7, 2.4, 3.7) differed between HsCB1 and RnCB1 and between HsCB1 and HsCB2. SR141716A differed between HsCB1 and RnCB1 (2.9 and 1.0 nM). Anandamide at HsCB1, RnCB1 and HsCB2 (239.2, 87.7, 439.5) fell short of statistical differences due to heterogeneity. We consider these Kd and Ki values to be the most valid estimates in the literature. Sensitivity analyses did not support the numerical validity of cannabidiol, cannabinol, 2-arachidonoyl glycerol and all ligands at RnCB2. Aggregate rank order analysis of CB1 distribution in the brain (pooled from 119 autoradiographic, immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization studies) showed denser HsCB1 expression in cognitive regions (cerebral cortex) compared to RnCB1, which was relatively richer in movement-associated areas (cerebellum, caudate-putamen). Implications of interspecies differences are discussed. PMID:17641667
Nursing Information Flow in Long-Term Care Facilities.

PubMed

Wei, Quan; Courtney, Karen L

2018-04-01

Long-term care (LTC), residential care requiring 24-hour nursing services, plays an important role in the health care service delivery system. The purpose of this study was to identify the needed clinical information and information flow to support LTC Registered Nurses (RNs) in care collaboration and clinical decision making. This descriptive qualitative study combines direct observations and semistructured interviews, conducted at Alberta's LTC facilities between May 2014 and August 2015. The constant comparative method (CCM) of joint coding was used for data analysis. Nine RNs from six LTC facilities participated in the study. The RN practice environment includes two essential RN information management aspects: information resources and information spaces. Ten commonly used information resources by RNs included: (1) RN-personal notes; (2) facility-specific templates/forms; (3) nursing processes/tasks; (4) paper-based resident profile; (5) daily care plans; (6) RN-notebooks; (7) medication administration records (MARs); (8) reporting software application (RAI-MDS); (9) people (care providers); and (10) references (i.e., books). Nurses used a combination of shared information spaces, such as the Nurses Station or RN-notebook, and personal information spaces, such as personal notebooks or "sticky" notes. Four essential RN information management functions were identified: collection, classification, storage, and distribution. Six sets of information were necessary to perform RN care tasks and communication, including: (1) admission, discharge, and transfer (ADT); (2) assessment; (3) care plan; (4) intervention (with two subsets: medication and care procedure); (5) report; and (6) reference. Based on the RN information management system requirements, a graphic information flow model was constructed. This baseline study identified key components of a current LTC nursing information management system. The information flow model may assist health information technology (HIT) developers to consolidate the design of HIT solutions for LTC, and serve as a communication tool between nurses and information technology (IT) staff to refine requirements and support further LTC HIT research. Schattauer GmbH Stuttgart.
Thermal effectiveness of multiple shell and tube pass TEMA E heat exchangers

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Pignotti, A.; Tamborenea, P.I.

1988-02-01

The thermal effectiveness of a TEMAE shell-and-tube heat exchanger, with one shell pass and an arbitrary number of tube passes, is determined under the usual simplifying assumptions of perfect transverse mixing of the shell fluid, no phase change, and temperature independence of the heat capacity rates and the heat transfer coefficient. A purely algebraic solution is obtained for the effectiveness as a functions of the heat capacity rate ratio and the number of heat transfer units. The case with M shell passes and N tube passes is easily expressed in terms of the single-shell-pass case.
A Short Note on the Relationship between Pass Rate and Multiple Attempts

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cheng, Ying; Liu, Cheng

2016-01-01

For a certification, licensure, or placement exam, allowing examinees to take multiple attempts at the test could effectively change the pass rate. Change in the pass rate can occur without any change in the underlying latent trait, and can be an artifact of multiple attempts and imperfect reliability of the test. By deriving formulae to compute…

Respectful Alignment of Programs as a Possible Factor in Remedial Writers' Pass Rates

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

McDonald, Mary

2017-01-01

For over four years, students enrolled in remedial writing classes who attended eight writing center tutorials directly linked to their assignments had an average pass rate of 95.6 percent, whereas students who did not attend any writing center tutorials had an average pass rate of 39.4 percent. These correlations are just that--correlations that…
Quality of hip and knee osteoarthritis management in primary health care in a Norwegian county: a cross-sectional survey.

PubMed

Grønhaug, Gudmund; Østerås, Nina; Hagen, Kåre Birger

2014-11-25

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of pain and disability in the adult population. Several studies have documented discordance between general practioners (GP) practice and management recommendations, but there is limited published information about patient reported experience of quality of care. The primary aim of this study was to assess the patient perceived quality of OA management in primary health care. Secondly, we wanted to explore the factors associated with the perceived quality of OA care. A cross-sectional survey in six general practices in the county of Nord-Trøndelag in Norway, patients with radiologically diagnosed OA, according to ICPC codes L89, L90 or L91 or clinical signs and symptoms corresponding to OA in the hip or knee and patient-reported quality of OA care on the 17-item OsteoArthritis Quality Indicator questionnaire (OA-QI). OA-QI summary pass rates were calculated, in which the numerator represents the number with indicators passed and the denominator represents the total number of eligible persons. Associations with summary pass rates were explored with demographic, disease related and health care related factors as independent variables. A total of 119 patients were included (response rate 42%). The median summary QI pass rate for all 17 QIs was 47% (Inter Quartile Range 33-65%), but there were large variation between the different items. The referral for weight reduction had the lowest pass rate (8%), whereas the highest pass rate was having received information about the importance of physical activity and exercise (84%). The median summary QI pass rates for both non-pharmacological- (QIs 1-11) and pharmacological (QIs 13-16) treatments were 50% (IQR 25-75). In bivariate regression analyses, only overall treatment satisfaction was significantly associated with QI pass rate (p = 0.001), with unstandardized beta = 6.1 (95% CI 2.7 to 9.5), i.e. a one-point increase on the five-point satisfaction scale was associated with a 6% increase in pass rate. Considering that the median summary QI pass rate was 47%, there might be room for improvement in OA care. Advice and the referral of OA patients in need of weight reduction seem to have the greatest potential for improvement.
Design and validation of a questionnaire on nursing competence in the notification of medication incidents.

PubMed

Salcedo-Diego, Isabel; de Andrés-Gimeno, Begoña; Ruiz-Antorán, Belén; Layunta, Rocío; Serrano-Gallardo, Pilar

To design and perform a face and content validation of a questionnaire to measure the competence of hospital RN to report medication incidents. Content and face questionnaire validation descriptive study. A review of the literature was performed for the creation of ítems. A panel of six experts assessed the relevance of the inclusion of each ítem in the questionnaire by calculating the position index; ítems with position index >0.70 were selected. The questionnaire was piloted by 59 RN. Finally, a meeting was convened with experts, in order to reduce the length of the piloted questionnaire through review, discussion and decision by consensus on each item. From the literature review, a battery of 151 ítems grouped into three elements of competence: attitudes, knowledge and skills was created. 52.9% (n=80) of the ítems received a position index > 0.70. The response rate in the pilot study was 40.65%. The median time to complete the questionnaire was 23:35minutes. After reduction by the experts, the final questionnaire comprised 45 ítems grouped into 32 questions. The NORMA questionnaire, designed to explore the competence of hospital RN to report medication incidents, has adequate face and content validity and is easy to administer, enabling its institutional implementation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.
Defining the optimal planning target volume in image-guided stereotactic radiosurgery of brain metastases: results of a randomized trial.

PubMed

Kirkpatrick, John P; Wang, Zhiheng; Sampson, John H; McSherry, Frances; Herndon, James E; Allen, Karen J; Duffy, Eileen; Hoang, Jenny K; Chang, Zheng; Yoo, David S; Kelsey, Chris R; Yin, Fang-Fang

2015-01-01

To identify an optimal margin about the gross target volume (GTV) for stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) of brain metastases, minimizing toxicity and local recurrence. Adult patients with 1 to 3 brain metastases less than 4 cm in greatest dimension, no previous brain radiation therapy, and Karnofsky performance status (KPS) above 70 were eligible for this institutional review board-approved trial. Individual lesions were randomized to 1- or 3- mm uniform expansion of the GTV defined on contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The resulting planning target volume (PTV) was treated to 24, 18, or 15 Gy marginal dose for maximum PTV diameters less than 2, 2 to 2.9, and 3 to 3.9 cm, respectively, using a linear accelerator-based image-guided system. The primary endpoint was local recurrence (LR). Secondary endpoints included neurocognition Mini-Mental State Examination, Trail Making Test Parts A and B, quality of life (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Brain), radionecrosis (RN), need for salvage radiation therapy, distant failure (DF) in the brain, and overall survival (OS). Between February 2010 and November 2012, 49 patients with 80 brain metastases were treated. The median age was 61 years, the median KPS was 90, and the predominant histologies were non-small cell lung cancer (25 patients) and melanoma (8). Fifty-five, 19, and 6 lesions were treated to 24, 18, and 15 Gy, respectively. The PTV/GTV ratio, volume receiving 12 Gy or more, and minimum dose to PTV were significantly higher in the 3-mm group (all P<.01), and GTV was similar (P=.76). At a median follow-up time of 32.2 months, 11 patients were alive, with median OS 10.6 months. LR was observed in only 3 lesions (2 in the 1 mm group, P=.51), with 6.7% LR 12 months after SRS. Biopsy-proven RN alone was observed in 6 lesions (5 in the 3-mm group, P=.10). The 12-month DF rate was 45.7%. Three months after SRS, no significant change in neurocognition or quality of life was observed. SRS was well tolerated, with low rates of LR and RN in both cohorts. However, given the higher potential risk of RN with a 3-mm margin, a 1-mm GTV expansion is more appropriate. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Highly Sensitive Measurements of 222Rn Diffusion and Emanation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zuzel, Grzegorz

Highly sensitive techniques for determination of the 222Rn emanation from solids and diffusion through different membranes are presented. 222Rn and its daughters are measured via the alpha decays in special proportional counters at the absolute sensitivity of {approx}30 {mu}Bq. Radon diffusion can be measured at the level of {approx}10-13 cm2/s. Several samples were examined, e.g. stainless steel, teflon, various gaskets (emanation and diffusion measurements) and tanks. A combination of measurements of the 222Rn diffusion and emanation of thin nylon foils (used in the Borexino experiment) allowed the determination of 226Ra in the materials of interest at the level of {approx}10-12more » g/g 238U-equivalent.« less
The Major Histocompatibility Complex–related Fc Receptor for IgG (FcRn) Binds Albumin and Prolongs Its Lifespan

PubMed Central

Chaudhury, Chaity; Mehnaz, Samina; Robinson, John M.; Hayton, William L.; Pearl, Dennis K.; Roopenian, Derry C.; Anderson, Clark L.

2003-01-01

The inverse relationship between serum albumin concentration and its half-life suggested to early workers that albumin would be protected from a catabolic fate by a receptor-mediated mechanism much like that proposed for IgG. We show here that albumin binds FcRn in a pH dependent fashion, that the lifespan of albumin is shortened in FcRn-deficient mice, and that the plasma albumin concentration of FcRn-deficient mice is less than half that of wild-type mice. These results affirm the hypothesis that the major histocompatibility complex–related Fc receptor protects albumin from degradation just as it does IgG, prolonging the half-lives of both. PMID:12566415
Enhanced radioactivity due to natural oil and gas production and related radiological problems.

PubMed

Kolb, W A; Wojcik, M

1985-10-01

Increased gamma radiation detected incidentally a few years ago in a North German oil field was traceable to radioactive scale. At the request of the Federal Ministry of the Interior a survey program was then established for dose rate measurements at various production sites, assessment of the radionuclide content of brines and scale and the Rn-222 content of natural gas. Dose equivalent rates of up to 50 mu Sv/h have been measured at the external surface of storage tanks for brines, but 73% of the 160 sites investigated did not show an increase above the natural background. Brines from gas fields contained Ra-226 of up to 286 Bq/l and scale of up to 1 kBq/g. In brines and scale from oil fields Ra-228 was usually the predominant radionuclide. Some samples contained "unsupported" Pb-210 and even Ac-227, too, but practically no uranium or thorium. The Rn-222 concentrations in natural gas samples varied between 0.004 and 4 Bq/l with a mean value of 0.6 Bq/l. It is shown that the radiation exposure due to natural gas consumption is negligible but some other problems or radiological relevance are recognized.
SU-G-BRB-16: Vulnerabilities in the Gamma Metric

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Neal, B; Siebers, J

Purpose: To explore vulnerabilities in the gamma index metric that undermine its wide use as a radiation therapy quality assurance tool. Methods: 2D test field pairs (images) are created specifically to achieve high gamma passing rates, but to also include gross errors by exploiting the distance-to-agreement and percent-passing components of the metric. The first set has no requirement of clinical practicality, but is intended to expose vulnerabilities. The second set exposes clinically realistic vulnerabilities. To circumvent limitations inherent to user-specific tuning of prediction algorithms to match measurements, digital test cases are manually constructed, thereby mimicking high-quality image prediction. Results: Withmore » a 3 mm distance-to-agreement metric, changing field size by ±6 mm results in a gamma passing rate over 99%. For a uniform field, a lattice of passing points spaced 5 mm apart results in a passing rate of 100%. Exploiting the percent-passing component, a 10×10 cm{sup 2} field can have a 95% passing rate when an 8 cm{sup 2}=2.8×2.8 cm{sup 2} highly out-of-tolerance (e.g. zero dose) square is missing from the comparison image. For clinically realistic vulnerabilities, an arc plan for which a 2D image is created can have a >95% passing rate solely due to agreement in the lateral spillage, with the failing 5% in the critical target region. A field with an integrated boost (e.g whole brain plus small metastases) could neglect the metastases entirely, yet still pass with a 95% threshold. All the failure modes described would be visually apparent on a gamma-map image. Conclusion: The %gamma<1 metric has significant vulnerabilities. High passing rates can obscure critical faults in hypothetical and delivered radiation doses. Great caution should be used with gamma as a QA metric; users should inspect the gamma-map. Visual analysis of gamma-maps may be impractical for cine acquisition.« less
SU-F-T-236: Comparison of Two IMRT/VMAT QA Systems Using Gamma Index Analysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dogan, N; Denissova, S

2016-06-15

Purpose: The goal of this study is to assess differences in the Gamma index pass rates when using two commercial QA systems and provide optimum Gamma index parameters for pre-treatment patient specific QA. Methods: Twenty-two VMAT cases that consisted of prostate, lung, head and neck, spine, brain and pancreas, were included in this study. The verification plans have been calculated using AcurosXB(V11) algorithm for different dose grids (1.5mm, 2.5mm, 3mm). The measurements were performed on TrueBeam(Varian) accelerator using both EPID(S1000) portal imager and ArcCheck(SunNuclearCorp) devices. Gamma index criteria variation of 3%/3mm, 2%/3mm, 2%/2mm and threshold (TH) doses of 5% tomore » 50% were used in analysis. Results: The differences in Gamma pass rates between two devices are not statistically significant for 3%/3mm, yielding pass rate higher than 95%. Increase of lower dose TH showed reduced pass rates for both devices. ArcCheck’s more pronounced effect can be attributed to higher contribution of lower dose region spread. As expected, tightening criteria to 2%/2mm (TH: 10%) decreased Gamma pass rates below 95%. Higher EPID (92%) pass rates compared to ArcCheck (86%) probably due to better spatial resolution. Portal Dosimetry results showed lower Gamma pass rates for composite plans compared to individual field pass rates. This may be due to the expansion in the analyzed region which includes pixels not included in the separate field analysis. Decreasing dose grid size from 2.5mm to 1.5mm did not show statistically significant (p<0.05) differences in Gamma pass rates for both QA devices. Conclusion: Overall, both system measurements agree well with calculated dose when using gamma index criteria of 3%/3mm for a variety of VMAT cases. Variability between two systems increases using different dose GRID, TH and tighter gamma criteria and must be carefully assessed prior to clinical use.« less
Interleukin-1 gene cluster variants in hemodialysis patients with end stage renal disease: An association and meta-analysis

PubMed Central

Tripathi, G.; Rangaswamy, D.; Borkar, M.; Prasad, N.; Sharma, R. K.; Sankhwar, S. N.; Agrawal, S.

2015-01-01

We evaluated whether polymorphisms in interleukin (IL-1) gene cluster (IL-1 alpha [IL-1A], IL-1 beta [IL-1B], and IL-1 receptor antagonist [IL-1RN]) are associated with end stage renal disease (ESRD). A total of 258 ESRD patients and 569 ethnicity matched controls were examined for IL-1 gene cluster. These were genotyped for five single-nucleotide gene polymorphisms in the IL-1A, IL-1B and IL-1RN genes and a variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) in the IL-1RN. The IL-1B − 3953 and IL-1RN + 8006 polymorphism frequencies were significantly different between the two groups. At IL-1B, the T allele of − 3953C/T was increased among ESRD (P = 0.0001). A logistic regression model demonstrated that two repeat (240 base pair [bp]) of the IL-1Ra VNTR polymorphism was associated with ESRD (P = 0.0001). The C/C/C/C/C/1 haplotype was more prevalent in ESRD = 0.007). No linkage disequilibrium (LD) was observed between six loci of IL-1 gene. We further conducted a meta-analysis of existing studies and found that there is a strong association of IL-1 RN VNTR 86 bp repeat polymorphism with susceptibility to ESRD (odds ratio = 2.04, 95% confidence interval = 1.48-2.82; P = 0.000). IL-1B − 5887, +8006 and the IL-1RN VNTR polymorphisms have been implicated as potential risk factors for ESRD. The meta-analysis showed a strong association of IL-1RN 86 bp VNTR polymorphism with susceptibility to ESRD. PMID:25684870
Quantitative cumulative biodistribution of antibodies in mice

PubMed Central

Yip, Victor; Palma, Enzo; Tesar, Devin B; Mundo, Eduardo E; Bumbaca, Daniela; Torres, Elizabeth K; Reyes, Noe A; Shen, Ben Q; Fielder, Paul J; Prabhu, Saileta; Khawli, Leslie A; Boswell, C Andrew

2014-01-01

The neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) plays an important and well-known role in antibody recycling in endothelial and hematopoietic cells and thus it influences the systemic pharmacokinetics (PK) of immunoglobulin G (IgG). However, considerably less is known about FcRn’s role in the metabolism of IgG within individual tissues after intravenous administration. To elucidate the organ distribution and gain insight into the metabolism of humanized IgG1 antibodies with different binding affinities FcRn, comparative biodistribution studies in normal CD-1 mice were conducted. Here, we generated variants of herpes simplex virus glycoprotein D-specific antibody (humanized anti-gD) with increased and decreased FcRn binding affinity by genetic engineering without affecting antigen specificity. These antibodies were expressed in Chinese hamster ovary cell lines, purified and paired radiolabeled with iodine-125 and indium-111. Equal amounts of I-125-labeled and In-111-labeled antibodies were mixed and intravenously administered into mice at 5 mg/kg. This approach allowed us to measure both the real-time IgG uptake (I-125) and cumulative uptake of IgG and catabolites (In-111) in individual tissues up to 1 week post-injection. The PK and distribution of the wild-type IgG and the variant with enhanced binding for FcRn were largely similar to each other, but vastly different for the rapidly cleared low-FcRn-binding variant. Uptake in individual tissues varied across time, FcRn binding affinity, and radiolabeling method. The liver and spleen emerged as the most concentrated sites of IgG catabolism in the absence of FcRn protection. These data provide an increased understanding of FcRn’s role in antibody PK and catabolism at the tissue level. PMID:24572100
Gestation age dependent transfer of human immunoglobulins across placenta in timed-pregnant guinea pigs.

PubMed

Xu, Yanqun; Ma, Li; Norton, Malgorzata G; Stuart, Christine; Zhao, Zhong; Toibero, Denise; Dahlen, Shelby; Zhong, Lilin; Zhang, Pei; Struble, Evi B

2015-12-01

When administered during pregnancy, antibodies and other biologic drugs that contain the Fc part of the IgG molecule can traverse the placenta. Although it is generally accepted that the FcRn receptor mediates this process, gaps remain in our understanding of underlying details in humans and in common laboratory animal species. We expanded our previous studies in timed-pregnant guinea pigs to both measure the transport of human (h) IgG at earlier gestation ages in vivo and evaluate FcRn function in vitro using Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) and Madin-Darby canine kidney cells (MDCK) that express guinea pig (gp) FcRn. In timed-pregnant guinea pigs both the average concentration of hIgG in the fetus and its ratio to maternal hIgG concentration increase exponentially with gestation age. Thus, hIgG fetal:maternal concentration ratios increase from an average of 1% to 3%, 17%, and 76% on GD ∼26, 35, 46, and 54, respectively. In vitro, gpFcRn immobilized on a solid surface can bind hIgG and gpIgG preparations in a similar manner. All engineered human Fc isotype-specific constructs were internalized by MDCK-gpFcRn cells at significant levels. While not significant, their recycling and hIgG transcytosis by this cell line also trend higher than background controls. Pregnant guinea pigs exhibit similarities with humans in the degree and timing of transplacental transfer as well as the ability of their FcRn to bind and internalize hIgG in vitro. Further studies are needed to guide building appropriate systems for the evaluation of FcRn mediated function of human immunoglobulin therapies. Published by Elsevier Ltd.
The genetic background of generalized pustular psoriasis: IL36RN mutations and CARD14 gain-of-function variants.

PubMed

Sugiura, Kazumitsu

2014-06-01

Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is often present in patients with existing or prior psoriasis vulgaris (PV; "GPP with PV"). However, cases of GPP have been known to arise without a history of PV ("GPP alone"). There has long been debate over whether GPP alone and GPP with PV are distinct subtypes that are etiologically different from each other. We recently reported that the majority of GPP alone cases is caused by recessive mutations of IL36RN. In contrast, only a few exceptional cases of GPP with PV were found to have recessive IL36RN mutations. Very recently, we also reported that CARD14 p.Asp176His, a gain-of-function variant, is a predisposing factor for GPP with PV; in contrast, the variant is not associated with GPP alone in the Japanese population. These results suggest that GPP alone is genetically different from GPP with PV. IL36RN mutations are also found in some patients with severe acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis, palmar-plantar pustulosis, and acrodermatitis continua of hallopeau. CARD14 mutations and variants are causal or disease susceptibility factors of PV, GPP, or pityriasis rubra pilaris, depending on the mutation or variant position of CARD14. It is clinically important to analyze IL36RN mutations in patients with sterile pustulosis. For example, identifying recessive IL36RN mutations leads to early diagnosis of GPP, even at the first episode of pustulosis. In addition, individuals with IL36RN mutations are very susceptible to GPP or GPP-related generalized pustulosis induced by drugs (e.g., amoxicillin), infections, pregnancy, or menstruation. Copyright © 2014 Japanese Society for Investigative Dermatology. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
Site-selective conjugation of an anticoagulant aptamer to recombinant albumins and maintenance of neonatal Fc receptor binding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schmøkel, Julie; Voldum, Anders; Tsakiridou, Georgia; Kuhlmann, Matthias; Cameron, Jason; Sørensen, Esben S.; Wengel, Jesper; Howard, Kenneth A.

2017-05-01

Aptamers are an attractive molecular medicine that offers high target specificity. Nucleic acid-based aptamers, however, are prone to nuclease degradation and rapid renal excretion that require blood circulatory half-life extension enabling technologies. The long circulatory half-life, predominately facilitated by engagement with the cellular recycling neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), and ligand transport properties of albumin promote it as an attractive candidate to improve the pharmacokinetic profile of aptamers. This study investigates the effect of Cys34 site-selective covalent attachment of a factor IXa anticoagulant aptamer on aptamer functionality and human FcRn (hFcRn) engagement using recombinant human albumin (rHA) of either a wild type (WT) or an engineered human FcRn high binding variant (HB). Albumin-aptamer conjugates, connected covalently through a heterobifunctional succinimidyl 4-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate linker, were successfully prepared and purified by high performance liquid chromatography as confirmed by gel electrophoresis band-shift analysis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight. Minimal reduction (∼25%) in activity of WT-linked aptamer to that of aptamer alone was found using an anticoagulant activity assay measuring temporal levels of activated partial thrombin. Covalent albumin-aptamer conjugation, however, substantially compromized binding to hFcRn, to 10% affinity of that of non-conjugated WT, determined by biolayer interferometry. Binding could be rescued by aptamer conjugation to recombinant albumin engineered for higher FcRn affinity (HB) that exhibited an 8-fold affinity compared to WT alone. This work describes a novel albumin-based aptamer delivery system whose hFcRn binding can be increased using a HB engineered albumin.
Site-selective conjugation of an anticoagulant aptamer to recombinant albumins and maintenance of neonatal Fc receptor binding.

PubMed

Schmøkel, Julie; Voldum, Anders; Tsakiridou, Georgia; Kuhlmann, Matthias; Cameron, Jason; Sørensen, Esben S; Wengel, Jesper; Howard, Kenneth A

2017-05-19

Aptamers are an attractive molecular medicine that offers high target specificity. Nucleic acid-based aptamers, however, are prone to nuclease degradation and rapid renal excretion that require blood circulatory half-life extension enabling technologies. The long circulatory half-life, predominately facilitated by engagement with the cellular recycling neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn), and ligand transport properties of albumin promote it as an attractive candidate to improve the pharmacokinetic profile of aptamers. This study investigates the effect of Cys34 site-selective covalent attachment of a factor IXa anticoagulant aptamer on aptamer functionality and human FcRn (hFcRn) engagement using recombinant human albumin (rHA) of either a wild type (WT) or an engineered human FcRn high binding variant (HB). Albumin-aptamer conjugates, connected covalently through a heterobifunctional succinimidyl 4-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate linker, were successfully prepared and purified by high performance liquid chromatography as confirmed by gel electrophoresis band-shift analysis and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight. Minimal reduction (∼25%) in activity of WT-linked aptamer to that of aptamer alone was found using an anticoagulant activity assay measuring temporal levels of activated partial thrombin. Covalent albumin-aptamer conjugation, however, substantially compromized binding to hFcRn, to 10% affinity of that of non-conjugated WT, determined by biolayer interferometry. Binding could be rescued by aptamer conjugation to recombinant albumin engineered for higher FcRn affinity (HB) that exhibited an 8-fold affinity compared to WT alone. This work describes a novel albumin-based aptamer delivery system whose hFcRn binding can be increased using a HB engineered albumin.
Utility of 222Rn as a passive tracer of subglacial distributed system drainage

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Linhoff, Benjamin S.; Charette, Matthew A.; Nienow, Peter W.; Wadham, Jemma L.; Tedstone, Andrew J.; Cowton, Thomas

2017-03-01

Water flow beneath the Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) has been shown to include slow-inefficient (distributed) and fast-efficient (channelized) drainage systems, in response to meltwater delivery to the bed via both moulins and surface lake drainage. This partitioning between channelized and distributed drainage systems is difficult to quantify yet it plays an important role in bulk meltwater chemistry and glacial velocity, and thus subglacial erosion. Radon-222, which is continuously produced via the decay of 226Ra, accumulates in meltwater that has interacted with rock and sediment. Hence, elevated concentrations of 222Rn should be indicative of meltwater that has flowed through a distributed drainage system network. In the spring and summer of 2011 and 2012, we made hourly 222Rn measurements in the proglacial river of a large outlet glacier of the GrIS (Leverett Glacier, SW Greenland). Radon-222 activities were highest in the early melt season (10-15 dpm L-1), decreasing by a factor of 2-5 (3-5 dpm L-1) following the onset of widespread surface melt. Using a 222Rn mass balance model, we estimate that, on average, greater than 90% of the river 222Rn was sourced from distributed system meltwater. The distributed system 222Rn flux varied on diurnal, weekly, and seasonal time scales with highest fluxes generally occurring on the falling limb of the hydrograph and during expansion of the channelized drainage system. Using laboratory based estimates of distributed system 222Rn, the distributed system water flux generally ranged between 1-5% of the total proglacial river discharge for both seasons. This study provides a promising new method for hydrograph separation in glacial watersheds and for estimating the timing and magnitude of distributed system fluxes expelled at ice sheet margins.
The effect of changes in hospital reimbursement on nurse staffing decisions at safety net and nonsafety net hospitals.

PubMed

Lindrooth, Richard C; Bazzoli, Gloria J; Needleman, Jack; Hasnain-Wynia, Romana

2006-06-01

The financial savings from the Balanced Budget Act (BBA) are attractive to policy makers, but such savings come at a cost. We measure changes in nurse staffing at hospitals related to potential declines in reimbursement through the BBA. Following Hadley, Zuckerman, and Feder (1989), we define a fiscal pressure index (FPI) to measure the differential effect of the BBA. We estimate the effect of the FPI on the number of full-time equivalent registered nurses (RN) and licensed practical nurses (LPN) per adjusted patient day using American Hospital Association (AHA) data of a panel of hospitals from 1996 to 2001. The AHA data are combined with the Area Resource Files and health maintenance organizations penetration data. We control for hospital heterogeneity using fixed effects. All urban short-term general hospitals that responded to the staffing and uncompensated care questions in the AHA survey between 1996 and 2001. We define safety net hospitals as those with a high ratio of uncompensated costs to total hospital expenses (see, e.g., Zuckerman et al. 2001). We find that the nonsafety net hospitals that were most susceptible to the provisions of the BBA experienced a decline in RN staffing ratios about twice the rate of the nonsafety net hospitals that were least susceptible to the BBA. We are unable to detect an effect of the BBA on staffing at safety net hospitals. RN and LPN staffing levels per adjusted patient day declined, on average, between 1996 and 2001. Within the context of the general decline, we find that RN staffing per adjusted patient day declined even more at nonsafety net hospitals that were most susceptible to lower reimbursement related to the BBA. Thus, there was a small but statistically significant incremental effect of potential BBA losses on RN staffing at hospitals that were expected to be affected most. This incremental decline represented about a 6 percent increase in nurse workload that in isolation might not affect quality. Nevertheless, the BBA contributed to the contemporaneous trends toward higher nurse workloads that could have deleterious effects on quality. In contrast, safety net hospitals did not respond to the provisions of the BBA by reducing staffing ratios. This conclusion is tempered by the fact that we have few safety net hospitals in the sample.
A Vision in Jeopardy: Royal Navy Maritime Autonomous Systems (MAS)

DTIC Science & Technology

2017-03-31

Chapter 6 will propose a new MAS vision for the RN. However, before doing so, a fresh look at the problem is required. Consensus of the Problem, Not the... assessment , the RN has failed to deliver any sustainable MAS operational capability. A vision for MAS finally materialized in 2014. Yet, the vision...continuous investment and assessment , the RN has failed to deliver any sustainable MAS operational capability. A vision for MAS finally materialized in
Ribes nigrum L. Prevents UVB-mediated Photoaging in Human Dermal Fibroblasts: Potential Antioxidant and Antiinflammatory Activity.

PubMed

Li, Lu; Hwang, Eunson; Ngo, Hien T T; Seo, Seul A; Lin, Pei; Gao, Wei; Liu, Ying; Yi, Tae-Hoo

2018-05-16

Black currants (Ribes nigrum L, RN) are known as a "super fruit" to possess for their many potential health benefits such as the alleviation of oxidative stress-related disorders. However, little skin photoaging-related research has been done on the use of this agent. In the present study, we investigated the protective effects of RN in UVB-irradiated human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). RN treatment in UVB-irradiated skin models alleviated UVB-mediated photoaging through several mechanisms: Treatment with RN downregulated MAPK-related signaling models, such as those of activation protein 1 (AP-1) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). In addition, phase II gene heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) was modulated by the increase in nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the nuclear, and finally, transforming growth factor TGF-β was upregulated in vitro. Further study indicated that UVB-induced production of MMP-1 and IL-6 could be inhibited by PD 98059 (an inhibitor of ERK) and SP600125 (an inhibitor of JNK). Thus, RN improved the expression of type I procollagen and inhibited UVB-induced MMP-1 and IL-6 secretion through inactivating MAPK cascades. Therefore, RN is a suitable target for further investigation as an antiphotoaging agent and may have applications in the skincare industry. © 2018 The American Society of Photobiology.
Lymphedema

MedlinePlus

... Lymphedema & Lymphatic Diseases About Us Mission History Your Investment Partners and Supporting Members LE&RN Informational Flyer ... Lymphedema & Lymphatic Diseases About Us Mission History Your Investment Partners and Supporting Members LE&RN Informational Flyer ...

The comparative effectiveness of fine-needle aspiration cytology sampling policies: a simulation study.

PubMed

Schmidt, Robert L; Howard, Kirsten; Hall, Brian J; Layfield, Lester J

2012-12-01

Sample adequacy is an important aspect of overall fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) performance. FNAC effectiveness is augmented by an increasing number of needle passes, but increased needle passes are associated with higher costs and greater risk of adverse events. The objective of this study was to compare the impact of several different sampling policies on FNAC effectiveness and adverse event rates using discrete event simulation. We compared 8 different sampling policies in 12 different sampling environments. All sampling policies were effective when the per-pass accuracy is high (>80%). Rapid on-site evaluation (ROSE) improves FNAC effectiveness when the per-pass adequacy rate is low. ROSE is unlikely to be cost-effective in sampling environments in which the per-pass adequacy is high. Alternative ROSE assessors (eg, cytotechnologists) may be a cost-effective alternative to pathologists when the per-pass adequacy rate is moderate (60%-80%) or when the number of needle passes is limited.
Neonatal Fc receptor expression in dendritic cells mediates protective immunity against colorectal cancer.

PubMed

Baker, Kristi; Rath, Timo; Flak, Magdalena B; Arthur, Janelle C; Chen, Zhangguo; Glickman, Jonathan N; Zlobec, Inti; Karamitopoulou, Eva; Stachler, Matthew D; Odze, Robert D; Lencer, Wayne I; Jobin, Christian; Blumberg, Richard S

2013-12-12

Cancers arising in mucosal tissues account for a disproportionately large fraction of malignancies. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) and the neonatal Fc receptor for IgG (FcRn) have an important function in the mucosal immune system that we have now shown extends to the induction of CD8(+) T cell-mediated antitumor immunity. We demonstrate that FcRn within dendritic cells (DCs) was critical for homeostatic activation of mucosal CD8(+) T cells that drove protection against the development of colorectal cancers and lung metastases. FcRn-mediated tumor protection was driven by DCs activation of endogenous tumor-reactive CD8(+) T cells via the cross-presentation of IgG complexed antigens (IgG IC), as well as the induction of cytotoxicity-promoting cytokine secretion, particularly interleukin-12, both of which were independently triggered by the FcRn-IgG IC interaction in murine and human DCs. FcRn thus has a primary role within mucosal tissues in activating local immune responses that are critical for priming efficient anti-tumor immunosurveillance. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Analyzing long-term correlated stochastic processes by means of recurrence networks: Potentials and pitfalls

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zou, Yong; Donner, Reik V.; Kurths, Jürgen

2015-02-01

Long-range correlated processes are ubiquitous, ranging from climate variables to financial time series. One paradigmatic example for such processes is fractional Brownian motion (fBm). In this work, we highlight the potentials and conceptual as well as practical limitations when applying the recently proposed recurrence network (RN) approach to fBm and related stochastic processes. In particular, we demonstrate that the results of a previous application of RN analysis to fBm [Liu et al. Phys. Rev. E 89, 032814 (2014), 10.1103/PhysRevE.89.032814] are mainly due to an inappropriate treatment disregarding the intrinsic nonstationarity of such processes. Complementarily, we analyze some RN properties of the closely related stationary fractional Gaussian noise (fGn) processes and find that the resulting network properties are well-defined and behave as one would expect from basic conceptual considerations. Our results demonstrate that RN analysis can indeed provide meaningful results for stationary stochastic processes, given a proper selection of its intrinsic methodological parameters, whereas it is prone to fail to uniquely retrieve RN properties for nonstationary stochastic processes like fBm.
An arabinogalactan from flowers of Panax notoginseng inhibits angiogenesis by BMP2/Smad/Id1 signaling.

PubMed

Wang, Peipei; Zhang, Lei; Yao, Jian; Shi, Yikang; Li, Ping; Ding, Kan

2015-05-05

Angiogenesis plays an essential role in tumor development. Blocking angiogenesis in tumor has become a promising tactic in limiting cancer progression. Here, an arabinogalactan polysaccharide, RN1 was isolated from flowers of Panax notoginseng. Its structure was determined to possess a backbone of 1,6-linked Galp branched at C3 by side 1,3-linked Galp, with branches attached at position O-3 of it. The branches mainly contained 1,5-linked, 1,3,5-linked, terminal Arabinose and terminal Galactose. RN1 could inhibit microvessel formation in the BxPC-3 pancreatic cancer cell xenograft tumor in nude mice. The antiangiogenesis assay showed that RN1 could reduce the migratory activity of endothelial cells and their ability of tube formation on matrigel, but no effect on endothelial cells growth. Further studies revealed that RN1 could inhibit BMP2/Smad1/5/8/Id1 signaling. All those data indicated the RN1 had an antiangiogenic effect via BMP2 signaling and could be a potential novel inhibitor of angiogenesis. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Invariant Poisson-Nijenhuis structures on Lie groups and classification

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ravanpak, Zohreh; Rezaei-Aghdam, Adel; Haghighatdoost, Ghorbanali

We study right-invariant (respectively, left-invariant) Poisson-Nijenhuis structures (P-N) on a Lie group G and introduce their infinitesimal counterpart, the so-called r-n structures on the corresponding Lie algebra 𝔤. We show that r-n structures can be used to find compatible solutions of the classical Yang-Baxter equation (CYBE). Conversely, two compatible r-matrices from which one is invertible determine an r-n structure. We classify, up to a natural equivalence, all r-matrices and all r-n structures with invertible r on four-dimensional symplectic real Lie algebras. The result is applied to show that a number of dynamical systems which can be constructed by r-matrices on a phase space whose symmetry group is Lie group a G, can be specifically determined.
A Counterexample Concerning the External index

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-08-01

et al. For a suitable sequence (rn) satisfying rn 4 w, rn/n 4 O , let rn r n Tn(j) -P( E Xni j i Xni > 0), j-1,2.... (5) i-i i1l where Xn,i is 1 if...Appromd for pubW 7~~ o . Dittrbutiona tln~mItd 10 9 N I. 20 1tIC 1 0 - a pi 00 I 11 3 0 06 -6 .. 02~ ’ x. a C-L d e a A 0i 0 - Ss 0 - 8 go ip9 d vi . -C...PERSONAL AUTHO..S) Smith, R.L. 13. TYPE OF REPORT 13b. TIME COVERED 14. DATE OF REPORT (Yr...WE.. Day) 15. PAGE COUNT r rint FROM 91/87_ TO 8L31/8
Handbook of Inviscid Sphere-Cone Flow Fields and Pressure Distributions. Volume 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-12-01

8.00 ANGLE OF ATTACK = 1.00 P / P FREE-STREAM AT PLANE ANGLES L/RN 0. 30. 60. 90. 120. iso . 180. S/RN 62.835 34.625 33.936 31.809 27.874 23.163 19.897...1.954 1 922 11273 6.972 3.241 3069 2663 2 2.20 27003 1.876 1.843 12*372 12817 3.228 3.046 2.619 2211 1.939 1.811 1.778 13.453 3*576 3.23t -4-,-G40 59...AT PLANE ANGLES -L/RN 0. 30. 60. 90. 1206 150. ISO * S/RN .728 55.729 51.603 41.628 30.695 22.303 17.474 15.941 1.296 o874 52.472 48.397 38.674 28.299
Verification of German methane emission inventories and their recent changes based on atmospheric observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Levin, Ingeborg; Glatzel-Mattheier, Holger; Marik, Thomas; Cuntz, Matthias; Schmidt, Martina; Worthy, Douglas E.

1999-02-01

Continuous methane concentration records and stable isotope observations measured in the suburbs of Heidelberg, Germany, are presented. While δ13C-CH4 shows a significant trend of -0.14‰ per year, toward more depleted values, no trend is observed in the concentration data. Comparison of the Heidelberg records with clean air observations in the North Atlantic at Izaña station (Tenerife) allows the determination of the continental methane excess at Heidelberg, decreasing by 20% from 190 ppb in 1992 to 150 ppb in 1997. The isotope ratio which is associated with this continental methane pileup in the Heidelberg catchment area shows a significant trend to more depleted values from δ13Csource = -47.4 ± 1.2‰ in 1992 to -52.9 ± 0.4‰ in 1995/1996, pointing to a significant change in the methane source mix. Total methane emissions in the Heidelberg catchment area are estimated using the 222radon (222Rn) tracer method: from the correlations of half-hourly 222Rn and CH4 mixing ratios from 1995 to 1997, and the mean 222Rn exhalation rate from typical soils in the Rhine valley, a mean methane flux of 0.24 ± 0.5 g CH4 km-2 s-1 is derived. For the Heidelberg catchment area with an estimated radius of approximately 150 km, Core Inventories Air 1990 (CORINAIR90) emission estimates yield a flux of 0.47 g CH4 km-2 s-1, which is about 40% higher than the 222Rn-derived number if extrapolated to 1990. The discrepancy can be explained by overestimated emissions from waste management in the CORINAIR90 statistical assessment. The observed decrease in total emissions can be accounted for by decreasing contributions from fossil sources (mainly coal mining) and from cattle breeding. This finding is also supported by the observed decrease in mean source isotopic signatures.
Do Differences in Programmatic Resource Investments Result in Different 3-Year Pass Rates on the U.S. National Physical Therapy Examination?

PubMed

Covington, Kyle; McCallum, Christine; Engelhard, Chalee; Landry, Michel D; Cook, Chad

2016-01-01

The rising cost of health professions education is well documented and a growing concern among educators; however, little is known about the implications of resource investment on student success. The objective of this study was to determine whether programs with higher National Physical Therapist Exam (NPTE) pass rates invested significantly more on programmatic resources. This observational study used data from the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education's (CAPTE) Annual Accreditation Report including all accredited physical therapist programs from the United States who graduated physical therapist students in 2011. Resource expenditures were recorded as both raw and as an index variable (resources per student). Descriptive statistics and comparisons (using chi-square and t-tests) among programs with <100% and 100% pass rates were analyzed from 2009-2011. An ANCOVA was used to determine differences in raw resource expenditures and resource expenditures per student. There were no differences in raw resource expenditures between programs with <100% and 100% pass rates. Programs with 100% pass rates were provided more resource expenditures per student for personnel, overall budget, and core faculty. The results of this study suggest programs with 100% pass rates invested significantly more per student for selected resources.
Pass rates on the American Board of Family Medicine Certification Exam by residency location and size.

PubMed

Falcone, John L; Middleton, Donald B

2013-01-01

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) sets residency performance standards for the American Board of Family Medicine Certification Examination. This study aims are to describe the compliance of residency programs with ACGME standards and to determine whether residency pass rates depend on program size and location. In this retrospective cohort study, residency performance from 2007 to 2011 was compared with the ACGME performance standards. Simple linear regression was performed to see whether program pass rates were dependent on program size. Regional differences in performance were compared with χ(2) tests, using an α level of 0.05. Of 429 total residency programs, there were 205 (47.8%) that violate ACGME performance standards. Linear regression showed that program pass rates were positively correlated and dependent on program size (P < .001). The median pass rate per state was 86.4% (interquartile range, 82.0-90.8. χ(2) Tests showed that states in the West performed higher than the other 3 US Census Bureau Regions (all P < .001). Approximately half of the family medicine training programs do not meet the ACGME examination performance standards. Pass rates are associated with residency program size, and regional variation occurs. These findings have the potential to affect ACGME policy and residency program application patterns.
Uplink transmission of a 60-km-reach WDM/OCDM-PON using a spectrum-sliced pulse source

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Choi, Yong-Kyu; Hanawa, Masanori; Park, Chang-Soo

2014-02-01

We propose and experimentally demonstrate the uplink transmission of a 60-km-reach wavelength division multiplexing/optical code division multiplexing (WDM/OCDM) passive optical network (PON) using a spectrum-sliced pulse source. As a single light source, a broadband pulse source with a bandwidth of 6.5 nm and a repetition rate of 1.25 GHz is generated at a central office and supplied to a remote node (RN) through a 50-km fiber link. At the RN, narrow-band pulses (as a source for uplink transmission) are obtained by spectrum slicing the broadband pulse source with a cyclic arrayed waveguide grating and are then supplied to all optical network units (ONUs) via 1×4 power splitters and 10-km drop fibers. Eight wavelengths are obtained with a 6.5-nm bandwidth of the broadband pulse source, and the qualities of the pulses with a repetition rate of 1.25 GHz and a pulse width of 45 ps for the eight wavelengths are sufficient for four-chip OCDM encoding at the ONUs. In our experiments, four signals are multiplexed by OCDM at one wavelength, and another encoded signal is also multiplexed by WDM. The bit error rates (BERs) of the signals exhibit error-free transmission (BER<10-9) over a 60-km single-mode fiber at 1.25 Gb/s.
Estimation of the radon production rate in granite rocks and evaluation of the implications for geogenic radon potential maps: A case study in Central Portugal.

PubMed

Pereira, A; Lamas, R; Miranda, M; Domingos, F; Neves, L; Ferreira, N; Costa, L

2017-01-01

The goal of this study was to estimate radon gas production rate in granitic rocks and identify the factors responsible for the observed variability. For this purpose, 180 samples were collected from pre-Hercynian and Hercynian rocks in north and central Portugal and analysed for a) 226 Ra activity, b) radon ( 222 Rn) per unit mass activity, and c) radon gas emanation coefficient. On a subset of representative samples from the same rock types were also measured d) apparent porosity and e) apparent density. For each of these variables, the values ranged as follows: a) 15 to 587 Bq kg -1 , b) 2 to 73 Bq kg -1 , c) 0.01 to 0.80, d) 0.3 to 11.4 % and e) 2530 to 2850 kg m -3 . Radon production rate varied between 40 to 1386 Bq m -3 h -1 . The variability observed was associated with geologically late processes of low and high temperature which led to the alteration of the granitic rock with mobilization of U and increase in radon 222 Rn gas emanation. It is suggested that, when developing geogenic radon potential maps, data on uranium concentration in soils/altered rock should be used, rather than data obtained from unaltered rock. Copyright Â© 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Modelling high data rate communication network access protocol

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Khanna, S.; Foudriat, E. C.; Paterra, Frank; Maly, Kurt J.; Overstreet, C. Michael

1990-01-01

Modeling of high data rate communication systems is different from the low data rate systems. Three simulations were built during the development phase of Carrier Sensed Multiple Access/Ring Network (CSMA/RN) modeling. The first was a model using SIMCRIPT based upon the determination and processing of each event at each node. The second simulation was developed in C based upon isolating the distinct object that can be identified as the ring, the message, the node, and the set of critical events. The third model further identified the basic network functionality by creating a single object, the node which includes the set of critical events which occur at the node. The ring structure is implicit in the node structure. This model was also built in C. Each model is discussed and their features compared. It should be stated that the language used was mainly selected by the model developer because of his past familiarity. Further the models were not built with the intent to compare either structure or language but because the complexity of the problem and initial results contained obvious errors, so alternative models were built to isolate, determine, and correct programming and modeling errors. The CSMA/RN protocol is discussed in sufficient detail to understand modeling complexities. Each model is described along with its features and problems. The models are compared and concluding observations and remarks are presented.
WE-D-BRA-06: IMRT QA with ArcCHECK: The MD Anderson Experience

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Aristophanous, M; Suh, Y; Chi, P

Purpose: The objective of this project was to report our initial IMRT QA results and experience with the SunNuclear ArcCHECK. Methods: Three thousand one-hundred and sixteen cases were treated with IMRT or VMAT at our institution between October 2013 and September 2014. All IMRT/VMAT treatment plans underwent Quality Assurance (QA) using ArcCHECK prior to therapy. For clinical evaluation, a Gamma analysis is performed following QA delivery using the SNC Patient software (Sun Nuclear Corp) at the 3%/3mm level. QA Gamma pass rates were analyzed based on categories of treatment site, technique, and type of MLCs. Our current clinical threshold formore » passing a QA (Tclin) is set at a Gamma pass rate greater than 90%. We recorded the percent of failures for each category, as well as the Gamma pass rate threshold that would Result in 95% of QAs to pass (T95). Results: Using Tclin a failure rate of 5.9% over all QAs was observed. The highest failure rate was observed for gynecological (22%) and the lowest for CNS (0.9%) treatments. T95 was 91% over all QAs and ranged from 73% (gynecological) to 96.5% (CNS) for individual treatments sites. T95 was lower for IMRT and non-HD (high definition) MLCs at 88.5% and 94.5%, respectively, compared to 92.4% and 97.1% for VMAT and HD MLC treatments, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the passing rates for IMRT vs. VMAT and for HD MLCs vs. non-HD MLCs (p-values << 0.01). Gynecological, IMRT, and HD MLC treatments typically include more plans with larger field sizes. Conclusion: On average, Tclin with ArcCHECK was consistent with T95, as well as the 90% action level reported in TG-119. However, significant variations between the examined categories suggest a link between field size and QA passing rates and may warrant field size-specific passing rate thresholds.« less
The statistical validity of nursing home survey findings.

PubMed

Woolley, Douglas C

2011-11-01

The Medicare nursing home survey is a high-stakes process whose findings greatly affect nursing homes, their current and potential residents, and the communities they serve. Therefore, survey findings must achieve high validity. This study looked at the validity of one key assessment made during a nursing home survey: the observation of the rate of errors in administration of medications to residents (med-pass). Statistical analysis of the case under study and of alternative hypothetical cases. A skilled nursing home affiliated with a local medical school. The nursing home administrators and the medical director. Observational study. The probability that state nursing home surveyors make a Type I or Type II error in observing med-pass error rates, based on the current case and on a series of postulated med-pass error rates. In the common situation such as our case, where med-pass errors occur at slightly above a 5% rate after 50 observations, and therefore trigger a citation, the chance that the true rate remains above 5% after a large number of observations is just above 50%. If the true med-pass error rate were as high as 10%, and the survey team wished to achieve 75% accuracy in determining that a citation was appropriate, they would have to make more than 200 med-pass observations. In the more common situation where med pass errors are closer to 5%, the team would have to observe more than 2000 med-passes to achieve even a modest 75% accuracy in their determinations. In settings where error rates are low, large numbers of observations of an activity must be made to reach acceptable validity of estimates for the true rates of errors. In observing key nursing home functions with current methodology, the State Medicare nursing home survey process does not adhere to well-known principles of valid error determination. Alternate approaches in survey methodology are discussed. Copyright © 2011 American Medical Directors Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Radon assay for SNO+

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rumleskie, Janet

The SNO+ experiment will study neutrinos while located 6,800 feet below the surface of the earth at SNOLAB. Though shielded from surface backgrounds, emanation of radon radioisotopes from the surrounding rock leads to back-grounds. The characteristic decay of radon and its daughters allows for an alpha detection technique to count the amount of Rn-222 atoms collected. Traps can collect Rn-222 from various positions and materials, including an assay skid that will collect Rn-222 from the organic liquid scintillator used to detect interactions within SNO+.
Radon assay for SNO+

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rumleskie, Janet

2015-12-01

The SNO+ experiment will study neutrinos while located 6,800 feet below the surface of the earth at SNOLAB. Though shielded from surface backgrounds, emanation of radon radioisotopes from the surrounding rock leads to back-grounds. The characteristic decay of radon and its daughters allows for an alpha detection technique to count the amount of Rn-222 atoms collected. Traps can collect Rn-222 from various positions and materials, including an assay skid that will collect Rn-222 from the organic liquid scintillator used to detect interactions within SNO+.
Comprehensive Analysis of DNA Methylation Data with RnBeads

PubMed Central

Walter, Jörn; Lengauer, Thomas; Bock, Christoph

2014-01-01

RnBeads is a software tool for large-scale analysis and interpretation of DNA methylation data, providing a user-friendly analysis workflow that yields detailed hypertext reports (http://rnbeads.mpi-inf.mpg.de). Supported assays include whole genome bisulfite sequencing, reduced representation bisulfite sequencing, Infinium microarrays, and any other protocol that produces high-resolution DNA methylation data. Important applications of RnBeads include the analysis of epigenome-wide association studies and epigenetic biomarker discovery in cancer cohorts. PMID:25262207
Measurements of Vorticity Vectors in Couette Flow with the Vorticity Optical Probe

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-05-01

Web 1981). The three components of the vorticity vector are measured, any two of them quite accurately. Multipoint measurement arrangements have been...the distribution of trajectory lengths is given by POrN ) rN O<rN<R. fwio-R R -rN where R is the angular measure of the detector radius. (The random...orticitv were performed deep within the viscous sublaver v 2.3). .At y < 10. the fluctuating vortici, ,tatistics show good agreement with the simulatins of
[Performance on the Board of Pediatrics certification examination by the Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría, 2001-2010].

PubMed

Ferrero, Fernando; Yulitta, Horacio; Molina, María Paz; Valli, Raúl

2011-08-01

Professional certification guarantees professional's performance, but the examination tool must be periodically evaluated. To describe the result of the pediatric certifying examination (PCE) of the Sociedad Argentina de Pediatría (SAP), between 2001-2010 analyzing the impact of the age and the elapsed time since the graduation and to describe the performance of training institutions in this period. Cross-section study. Data were obtained from the records of Board of Pediatrics of the SAP. The results of the PCE, were analyzed assessing examination pass rate and training institutions (2001-2010), and age and elapsed time since graduation of the examined professionals (2001-2005). Of 2527 professionals from 138 institutions, 69.6% passed. Those that passed were younger (31.7 ± 4.1 vs. 35.6 ± 6.2 years; p <0.0001) and had less years since graduation (6.3 ± 4.0 vs. 9.0 ± 5.9; p <0.0001) than those who did not pass. The examination pass rate was higher in institutions accredited by SAP (78.4% vs. 48.8%; OR= 3,8 IC95%= 3,1-4,7; p <0.001). The pass rate was significantly higher in institutions with accredited programs for 5 years than those not accredited (78.4% vs. 48.8%, OR= 3.8 95% CI= 3.1 to 4.7, p <0.001). The pass rate at accredited institutions for 3 years (53.7%) and 1 year (48.7%) showed no statistically significant differences with non-accredited institutions. The certifying examination pass rate was 68.5%. Younger professionals with fewer years since graduation, and trained in SAP 5 years accredited programs were significantly more likely to pass the examination.

The utility of mock oral examinations in preparation for the American Board of Surgery certifying examination.

PubMed

Higgins, Rana M; Deal, Rebecca A; Rinewalt, Daniel; Hollinger, Edward F; Janssen, Imke; Poirier, Jennifer; Austin, Delores; Rendina, Megan; Francescatti, Amanda; Myers, Jonathan A; Millikan, Keith W; Luu, Minh B

2016-02-01

Determine the utility of mock oral examinations in preparation for the American Board of Surgery certifying examination (ABS CE). Between 2002 and 2012, blinded data were collected on 63 general surgery residents: 4th and 5th-year mock oral examination scores, first-time pass rates on ABS CE, and an online survey. Fifty-seven residents took the 4th-year mock oral examination: 30 (52.6%) passed and 27 (47.4%) failed, with first-time ABS CE pass rates 93.3% and 81.5% (P = .238). Fifty-nine residents took the 5th-year mock oral examination: 28 (47.5%) passed and 31 (52.5%) failed, with first-time ABS CE pass rates 82.1% and 93.5% (P = .240). Thirty-eight responded to the online survey, 77.1% ranked mock oral examinations as very or extremely helpful with ABS CE preparation. Although mock oral examinations and ABS CE passing rates do not directly correlate, residents perceive the mock oral examinations to be helpful. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Earthquake Light

DTIC Science & Technology

1985-08-15

movement , piezoelectricity generated by stress release, etc. Lightning strokes of whatever origin can, of course, be expected occasionally to set fires, as...be enhanced by earth movement : the former, by an elevated rate of release of radioactive gases (e.g., Rn 222 ) into the air; and the latter, through...the piezoelectric effect, alteration in telluric currents, etc. Changes in both parameters could be generated over extended periods of time through a
Manprint Handbook for Nondevelopmental Item (NDI) Acquisition

DTIC Science & Technology

1988-03-01

SUPPORTABILITY SOLDIES WILL AC AJIL SU1PPORT GEItS KILL AC TO PERrORM ALL NAIN- uLE1 10 PE~rORM AE- PENANCE ?ASXS TO $ TAX - pul"RD SUPP*rt tO DANA UNOER...system performance wilt have to be ,on (Skill decay rate )? answvered and evaluated based on Army r rn~jinformation. Whot new skills wll be re*#ird...to soldier--New ASI or MOS--Require increased recruiting difficulties. Training MEPSCAT rating of Very Heavy, impact of new L40S or ASI. AWIlPMENT
222Rn+220Rn monitoring by alpha spectrometry.

PubMed

Buompane, R; Roca, V; Sabbarese, C; Pugliese, M; Quarto, M; Mattone, C

2014-07-01

Controlled 222Rn+220Rn mixed atmospheres have been realised introducing calibrated sources in a stainless steel chamber. An electrostatic alpha monitor internal to the chamber has been used for an accurate discrimination of alpha peaks due to the products of the two isotopes. In the chamber, different specific activities are achieved in order to test the response of the internal reference instrument and to evaluate the possible interferences due to contemporary presence of both radon isotopes. Results show that: (i) the atmospheres are very stable, (ii) the monitor is adequate for their control because the various alpha lines are well evaluated and (iii) using Tyvek® filter, the efficiency of monitor is stable and constant vs. activity. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.
Fc-fusion proteins and FcRn: structural insights for longer-lasting and more effective therapeutics

PubMed Central

Rath, Timo; Baker, Kristi; Dumont, Jennifer A.; Peters, Robert T.; Jiang, Haiyan; Qiao, Shuo-Wang; Lencer, Wayne I.; Pierce, Glenn F.; Blumberg, Richard S.

2016-01-01

Nearly 350 IgG-based therapeutics are approved for clinical use or are under development for many diseases lacking adequate treatment options. These include molecularly engineered biologicals comprising the IgG Fc-domain fused to various effector molecules (so-called Fc-fusion proteins) that confer the advantages of IgG, including binding to the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) to facilitate in vivo stability, and the therapeutic benefit of the specific effector functions. Advances in IgG structure-function relationships and an understanding of FcRn biology have provided therapeutic opportunities for previously unapproachable diseases. This article discusses approved Fc-fusion therapeutics, novel Fc-fusion proteins and FcRn-dependent delivery approaches in development, and how engineering of the FcRn–Fc interaction can generate longer-lasting and more effective therapeutics. PMID:24156398
1989 Intercomparison of radon progeny measurement methods and equipment in North America

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Scofield, P.; George, A.; Tu, Keng.

1990-03-01

At the 1989 {sup 222}Rn progeny intercomparison held at the Environmental Measurements Laboratory (EML), July 10--14, 1989, grab sampling and integrating/continuous {sup 222}Rn progeny methods were evaluated. Sixteen facilities participated in this intercomparison. Twelve facilities used {sup 222}Rn progeny grab sampling methods, and nine facilities used integrating/continuous instruments. Eighty-eight percent of the participants reported grab sample {sup 222}Rn progeny concentrations that were within 20% of the EML reference values. Good agreement between participant and EML grab-sample potential alpha energy concentrations (PAECs) was observed; 92% of the participants had PAECs within 20% of the EML values. For the integrating/continuous PAEC valuesmore » determined with integrating/continuous monitors, 89% of the participants were within 20% of the EML reference values. 9 refs., 3 figs., 4 tabs.« less
Comparison and analysis of empirical equations for soil heat flux for different cropping systems and irrigation methods

USGS Publications Warehouse

Irmak, A.; Singh, Ramesh K.; Walter-Shea, Elizabeth; Verma, S.B.; Suyker, A.E.

2011-01-01

We evaluated the performance of four models for estimating soil heat flux density (G) in maize (Zea mays L.) and soybean (Glycine max L.) fields under different irrigation methods (center-pivot irrigated fields at Mead, Nebraska, and subsurface drip irrigated field at Clay Center, Nebraska) and rainfed conditions at Mead. The model estimates were compared against measurements made during growing seasons of 2003, 2004, and 2005 at Mead and during 2005, 2006, and 2007 at Clay Center. We observed a strong relationship between the G and net radiation (Rn) ratio (G/Rn) and the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). When a significant portion of the ground was bare soil, G/Rn ranged from 0.15 to 0.30 and decreased with increasing NDVI. In contrast to the NDVI progression, the G/Rn ratio decreased with crop growth and development. The G/Rn ratio for subsurface drip irrigated crops was smaller than for the center-pivot irrigated crops. The seasonal average G was 13.1%, 15.2%, 10.9%, and 12.8% of Rn for irrigated maize, rainfed maize, irrigated soybean, and rainfed soybean, respectively. Statistical analyses of the performance of the four models showed a wide range of variation in G estimation. The root mean square error (RMSE) of predictions ranged from 15 to 81.3 W m-2. Based on the wide range of RMSE, it is recommended that local calibration of the models should be carried out for remote estimation of soil heat flux.
The financial impact of robotic technology for partial and radical nephrectomy.

PubMed

Kates, Max; Ball, Mark W; Patel, Hiten D; Gorin, Michael A; Pierorazio, Phillip M; Allaf, Mohamad E

2015-03-01

We sought to evaluate the financial impact of robotic technology for partial nephrectomy (PN) and radical nephrectomy (RN) in the state of Maryland. The Maryland Health Services Cost Review Commission (HSCRC) documents all acute care hospital charges data. This database was queried for patients who underwent laparoscopic or robot-assisted RN and PN from 2008 to 2012. Total hospital charge, subcharge, and length of stay (LOS) were analyzed separately for RN and PN. Overall, 2834 patients were identified. Of those, 282 were laparoscopic PN (LPN), 1078 robot-assisted PN (RPN), 1098 laparoscopic RN (LRN), and 376 robot-assisted RN (RRN). For PN, the total hospital charge was $19,062 for LPN and $18,255 for RPN (P=0.138), with a charge savings of $807 per case in favor of robotics. For RN, the total hospital charge was $23,391 for RRN and $18,280 for LRN (P=0.004), with a charge premium of $5111 for robotic cases. LOS was shorter for RPN compared with LPN (2.51 vs 2.99 days, P<0.0001) and for RRN compared with LRN (3.52 vs 3.98, P=0.0498). RPN is associated with lower hospital charges than LPN, while RRN is associated with higher hospital charges than LRN. Savings for RPN are driven by decreased room and board charge, while the premium for RRN is driven by higher operating room and supply charges. Because RRN use is increasing, the financial implications of RRN use for routine cases warrants further study.
Ra and Rn isotopes as natural tracers of submarine groundwater discharge in Tampa Bay, Florida

USGS Publications Warehouse

Swarzenski, P.W.; Reich, C.; Kroeger, K.D.; Baskaran, M.

2007-01-01

A suite of naturally occurring radionuclides in the U/Th decay series (222Rn, 223,224,226,228Ra) were studied during wet and dry conditions in Tampa Bay, Florida, to evaluate their utility as groundwater discharge tracers, both within the bay proper and within the Alafia River/estuary — a prominent free-flowing river that empties into the bay. In Tampa Bay, almost 30% of the combined riverine inputs still remain ungauged. Consequently, groundwater/surface water (hyporheic) exchange in the discharging coastal rivers, as well as submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) within the bay, are still unresolved components of this system's water and material budgets. Based on known inputs and sinks, there exists an excess of 226Ra in the water column of Tampa Bay, which can be evaluated in terms of a submarine groundwater contribution to the bay proper. Submarine groundwater discharge rates calculated using a mass balance of excess 226Ra ranged from 2.2 to 14.5 L m− 2 day− 1, depending on whether the estuarine residence time was calculated using 224Ra/xs228Ra isotope ratios, or whether a long term, averaged model-derived estuarine residence time was used. When extrapolated to the total shoreline length of the bay, such SGD rates ranged from 1.6 to 10.3 m3 m− 1 day− 1. Activities of 222Rn were also elevated in surface water and shallow groundwater of the bay, as well as in the Alafia River estuary, where upstream activities as high as 250 dpm L− 1 indicate enhanced groundwater/surface water exchange, facilitated by an active spring vent. From average nutrient concentrations of 39 shallow, brackish, groundwater samples, rates of nutrient loading into Tampa Bay by SGD rates were estimated, and these ranged from 0.2 to 1.4 × 105 mol day− 1 (PO43−), 0.9–6.2 × 105 mol day− 1 (SiO4−), 0.7–5.0 × 105 mol day− 1 (dissolved organic nitrogen, DON), and 0.2–1.4 × 106 mol day− 1 (total dissolved nitrogen, TDN). Such nutrient loading estimates, when compared to average river discharge estimates (e.g., TDN = 6.9 × 105 mol day− 1), suggest that SGD-derived nutrient fluxes to Tampa Bay are indeed important components to the overall nutrient economy of these coastal waters.
Ultra-low level radon assays in gases

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Xin Ran

The SuperNEMO experiment aims to search for the neutrinoless double beta decay (0νβ β) to T{sub 1{sub /{sub 2}}}(0ν) > 10{sup 26} years, this corresponds to an effective neutrino mass of 50-100 meV. The extremely rare event rate means the minimisation of background is of critical concern. The stringent strategy instigated to ensure detector radiopurity is outlined here for all construction materials. In particular the large R&D programme undertaken to reach the challengingly low level of radon, < 0.15 mBq/m{sup 3}, required inside the SuperNEMO gaseous tracker will be detailed. This includes an experiment designed to measure radon diffusion throughmore » various materials. A “Radon Concentration Line” (RnCL) was developed to be used in conjunction with a state-of-the-art radon detector in order to achieve world leading sensitivity to {sup 222}Rn content in large gas volumes at the level of a few µBq/m{sup 3}. A radon purification system was developed and installed which has demonstrated radon suppression by several orders of magnitude depending on the carrier gas. This apparatus has now been commissioned and measurements of cylindered gas have been made to confirm radon suppression by a factor 20 when using nitrogen as the carrier gas. The results from measurements of radon content in various gases, used inside SuperNEMO, using the RnCL will be presented.« less
Minipig as a potential translatable model for monoclonal antibody pharmacokinetics after intravenous and subcutaneous administration

PubMed Central

Benincosa, Lisa; Birnböck, Herbert; Boswell, C Andrew; Bumbaca, Daniela; Cowan, Kyra J; Danilenko, Dimitry M; Daugherty, Ann L; Fielder, Paul J; Grimm, Hans Peter; Joshi, Amita; Justies, Nicole; Kolaitis, Gerry; Lewin-Koh, Nicholas; Li, Jing; McVay, Sami; O'Mahony, Jennifer; Otteneder, Michael; Pantze, Michael; Putnam, Wendy S; Qiu, Zhihua J; Ruppel, Jane; Singer, Thomas; Stauch, Oliver; Theil, Frank-Peter; Visich, Jennifer; Yang, Jihong; Ying, Yong

2012-01-01

Subcutaneous (SC) delivery is a common route of administration for therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with pharmacokinetic (PK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) properties requiring long-term or frequent drug administration. An ideal in vivo preclinical model for predicting human PK following SC administration may be one in which the skin and overall physiological characteristics are similar to that of humans. In this study, the PK properties of a series of therapeutic mAbs following intravenous (IV) and SC administration in Göttingen minipigs were compared with data obtained previously from humans. The present studies demonstrated: (1) minipig is predictive of human linear clearance; (2) the SC bioavailabilities in minipigs are weakly correlated with those in human; (3) minipig mAb SC absorption rates are generally higher than those in human and (4) the SC bioavailability appears to correlate with systemic clearance in minipigs. Given the important role of the neonatal Fc-receptor (FcRn) in the PK of mAbs, the in vitro binding affinities of these IgGs against porcine, human and cynomolgus monkey FcRn were tested. The result showed comparable FcRn binding affinities across species. Further, mAbs with higher isoelectric point tended to have faster systemic clearance and lower SC bioavailability in both minipig and human. Taken together, these data lend increased support for the use of the minipig as an alternative predictive model for human IV and SC PK of mAbs. PMID:22453096
Uneven distribution of expressed sequence tag loci on maize pachytene chromosomes

PubMed Central

Anderson, Lorinda K.; Lai, Ann; Stack, Stephen M.; Rizzon, Carene; Gaut, Brandon S.

2006-01-01

Examining the relationships among DNA sequence, meiotic recombination, and chromosome structure at a genome-wide scale has been difficult because only a few markers connect genetic linkage maps with physical maps. Here, we have positioned 1195 genetically mapped expressed sequence tag (EST) markers onto the 10 pachytene chromosomes of maize by using a newly developed resource, the RN-cM map. The RN-cM map charts the distribution of crossing over in the form of recombination nodules (RNs) along synaptonemal complexes (SCs, pachytene chromosomes) and allows genetic cM distances to be converted into physical micrometer distances on chromosomes. When this conversion is made, most of the EST markers used in the study are located distally on the chromosomes in euchromatin. ESTs are significantly clustered on chromosomes, even when only euchromatic chromosomal segments are considered. Gene density and recombination rate (as measured by EST and RN frequencies, respectively) are strongly correlated. However, crossover frequencies for telomeric intervals are much higher than was expected from their EST frequencies. For pachytene chromosomes, EST density is about fourfold higher in euchromatin compared with heterochromatin, while DNA density is 1.4 times higher in heterochromatin than in euchromatin. Based on DNA density values and the fraction of pachytene chromosome length that is euchromatic, we estimate that ∼1500 Mbp of the maize genome is in euchromatin. This overview of the organization of the maize genome will be useful in examining genome and chromosome evolution in plants. PMID:16339046
The Role of Organizational Culture in Retaining Nursing Workforce

PubMed Central

Banaszak-Holl, Jane; Castle, Nicholas G.; Lin, Michael K.; Shrivastwa, Nijika; Spreitzer, Gretchen

2015-01-01

Purpose of the Study: We examined how organizational culture in nursing homes affects staff turnover, because culture is a first step to creating satisfactory work environments. Design and Methods: Nursing home administrators were asked in 2009 to report on facility culture and staff turnover. We received responses from 419 of 1,056 administrators contacted. Respondents reported the strength of cultural values using scales from a Competing Values Framework and percent of staff leaving annually for Registered Nurse (RN), Licensed Practice Nurse (LPN), and nursing aide (NA) staff. We estimated negative binomial models predicting turnover. Results: Turnover rates are lower than found in past but remain significantly higher among NAs than among RNs or LPNs. Facilities with stronger market values had increased turnover among RNs and LPNs, and among NAs when turnover was adjusted for facilities with few staff. Facilities emphasizing hierarchical internal processes had lower RN turnover. Group and developmental values focusing on staff and innovation only lowered LPN turnover. Finally, effects on NA turnover become insignificant when turnover was adjusted if voluntary turnover was reported. Implications: Organizational culture had differential effects on the turnover of RN, LPN, and NA staff that should be addressed in developing culture-change strategies. More flexible organizational culture values were important for LPN staff only, whereas unexpectedly, greater emphasis on rigid internal rules helped facilities retain RNs. Facilities with a stronger focus on customer needs had higher turnover among all staff. PMID:24218146
Radon (222Rn) in groundwater studies in two volcanic zones of central Mexico

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cortés, A.; Cardona, A.; Pérez-Quezadas, J.; Inguaggiato, S.; Vázquez-López, C.; Golzarri, J. I.; Espinosa, G.

2013-07-01

The distribution of radon (222Rn) concentrations in groundwater from two basins of volcanic origin is presented. Regions have different physiographic characteristics with fractured mafic/intermediate and felsic rocks. Samples were taken from deep wells and springs. Concentrations were field measured by two methods: i) scintillator, coupled to a photomultiplier, and ii) passive method, using Nuclear Track Detectors. Qualitatively, results of 222Rn measured with both techniques are comparable only when concentrations have values less than 1 Bq/l. For the Basin of Mexico City the data shows an average difference of 0.13 Bq/l. Results of 222Rn concentrations in 46 groundwater samples indicate that the data are below 11.1 Bq/l, with both methodologies. Low concentrations of 222Rn in the Basin of Mexico City are related to the mafic intermediate composition rocks such as basalt. The anomalies with high values are correlated with the transition zone between volcanic units and clays from ancient lakes. In San Luis Potosí 10 samples show an average of 4.2 Bq/l. These concentrations compared with those of the Basin of Mexico City are related to the composition of the felsic (rhyolite) volcanic rocks.
Large voltage modulation in superconducting quantum interference devices with submicron-scale step-edge junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lam, Simon K. H.

2017-09-01

A promising direction to improve the sensitivity of a SQUID is to increase its junction's normal resistance value, Rn, as the SQUID modulation voltage scales linearly with Rn. As a first step to develop highly sensitive single layer SQUID, submicron scale YBCO grain boundary step edge junctions and SQUIDs with large Rn were fabricated and studied. The step-edge junctions were reduced to submicron scale to increase their Rn values using focus ion beam, FIB and the measurement of transport properties were performed from 4.3 to 77 K. The FIB induced deposition layer proves to be effective to minimize the Ga ion contamination during the FIB milling process. The critical current-normal resistance value of submicron junction at 4.3 K was found to be 1-3 mV, comparable to the value of the same type of junction in micron scale. The submicron junction Rn value is in the range of 35-100 Ω, resulting a large SQUID modulation voltage in a wide temperature range. This performance promotes further investigation of cryogen-free, high field sensitivity SQUID applications at medium low temperature, e.g. at 40-60 K.
Quantifying the Contributions of Environmental Parameters to Ceres Surface Net Radiation Error in China

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pan, X.; Yang, Y.; Liu, Y.; Fan, X.; Shan, L.; Zhang, X.

2018-04-01

Error source analyses are critical for the satellite-retrieved surface net radiation (Rn) products. In this study, we evaluate the Rn error sources in the Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) project at 43 sites from July in 2007 to December in 2007 in China. The results show that cloud fraction (CF), land surface temperature (LST), atmospheric temperature (AT) and algorithm error dominate the Rn error, with error contributions of -20, 15, 10 and 10 W/m2 (net shortwave (NSW)/longwave (NLW) radiation), respectively. For NSW, the dominant error source is algorithm error (more than 10 W/m2), particularly in spring and summer with abundant cloud. For NLW, due to the high sensitivity of algorithm and large LST/CF error, LST and CF are the largest error sources, especially in northern China. The AT influences the NLW error large in southern China because of the large AT error in there. The total precipitable water has weak influence on Rn error even with the high sensitivity of algorithm. In order to improve Rn quality, CF and LST (AT) error in northern (southern) China should be decreased.
Using agency nurses to fill RN vacancies within specialized hospice and palliative care

PubMed Central

Cozad, Melanie J.; Lindley, Lisa C.; Mixer, Sandy J.

2016-01-01

The use of agency nurses offers flexibility in filling registered nurse openings during times of shortage, yet little is known about their use in specialized palliative care. In an effort to fill this knowledge gap, this study determined whether significant relationships existed between full-time and part-time RN vacancies and the use of agency RNs within specialized hospices that deliver perinatal end of life care to women and their families in the event of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or other neonatal complications resulting in death. This study used data from the 2007 National Home and Hospice Care Survey and multivariate regression methods to estimate the association between RN vacancies and agency RNs use. Approximately 13% of perinatal hospices in 2007 used agency nurses. Increases in full-time RN vacancies are associated with a significant increase in the use of agency RNs, while part-time RN vacancies are associated with a significant decrease in agency RNs. These results suggest that full-time agency RNs were used as a supplemental workforce to fill vacancies until the full-time position is recruited. However, for part-time vacancies, the responsibilities of those positions shifted onto existing staff and the position was not filled. PMID:27683508
Course Pass Rates in Fall 1987. Enrollment Analysis Report EA88-6.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Clagett, Craig A.; Diehl, Patricia K.

A study was conducted at Prince George's Community College (PGCC) in Maryland to determine the percentage of students enrolled in courses in fall 1987 who received passing grades, and to examine these pass rates with respect to academic discipline, and student gender, age, race, and admission status. Study findings included the following: (1) the…
Nurse confidence in gynaecological oncology practice and the evaluation of a professional development module.

PubMed

Philp, Shannon; Barnett, Catherine; D'Abrew, Natalie; White, Kate

2017-04-01

A tertiary-based education program on gynaecological oncology was attended by 62 registered nurses (RN). The program aimed to update nurses' knowledge, improve skills and ability to manage common situations and to assess program efficacy. Evaluation framework with specifically designed pre-post questionnaire about program content and nurse confidence. RN interested in gynaecological oncology were invited to attend. Nurses rated their confidence about gynaecological oncology skills one week prior to the program, immediately post-course, 3 months post and 12 months post. Speaker presentations were evaluated immediately post-course. Participants indicated improved confidence immediately after participating in the course (z = -6.515, p < .001); whilst confidence subsequently declined and stabilised up to 12 months post-course, it still remained significantly higher than before the course: 3 months post- (z = -5.284, p < .001) and 12 months post- (z = -4.155, p < .001). Results support the value of continuing professional education for improving nurse confidence in the gynaecological oncology setting.
Relevance of air conditioning for 222Radon concentration in shops of the Savona Province, Italy.

PubMed

Panatto, Donatella; Ferrari, Paola; Lai, Piero; Gallelli, Giovanni

2006-02-15

Radon (222Rn) concentration was evaluated in shops of the Savona Province, Italy, between summer 2002 and winter 2002-2003. The main characteristics of each shops were recorded through a questionnaire investigating the ventilation rate and factors related to 222Rn precursors in the soil and the construction materials. The main variables that were related to radon concentration were the following: age of the building, level of the shop above ground, season of the year, wind exposure, active windows, and type of heating system. Shops equipped with individual air heating/conditioning systems exhibited radon concentrations that were three times higher than those of shops heated by centralized furnaces. Our data indicate that the level of pollution in the shops was of medium level, with an expected low impact on the salespersons' health. Only in wintertime, the action level of 200 Bq m(-3) for the confined environment was reached in 10 shops equipped with individual air heating/conditioning systems.

Modeling of the static recrystallization for 7055 aluminum alloy by cellular automaton

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Tao; Lu, Shi-hong; Zhang, Jia-bin; Li, Zheng-fang; Chen, Peng; Gong, Hai; Wu, Yun-xin

2017-09-01

In order to simulate the flow behavior and microstructure evolution during the pass interval period of the multi-pass deformation process, models of static recovery (SR) and static recrystallization (SRX) by the cellular automaton (CA) method for the 7055 aluminum alloy were established. Double-pass hot compression tests were conducted to acquire flow stress and microstructure variation during the pass interval period. With the basis of the material constants obtained from the compression tests, models of the SR, incubation period, nucleation rate and grain growth were fitted by least square method. A model of the grain topology and a statistical computation of the CA results were also introduced. The effects of the pass interval time, temperature, strain, strain rate and initial grain size on the microstructure variation for the SRX of the 7055 aluminum alloy were studied. The results show that a long pass interval time, large strain, high temperature and large strain rate are beneficial for finer grains during the pass interval period. The stable size of the static recrystallized grain is not concerned with the initial grain size, but mainly depends on the strain rate and temperature. The SRX plays a vital role in grain refinement, while the SR has no effect on the variation of microstructure morphology. Using flow stress and microstructure comparisons of the simulated and experimental CA results, the established CA models can accurately predict the flow stress and microstructure evolution during the pass interval period, and provide guidance for the selection of optimized parameters for the multi-pass deformation process.
Characterization of Bird Impacts on a Rigid Plate: Part 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1975-01-01

a breech block at the breech end and a sabot stopper at the muzzle. Four longitudinal slits 46 cm long, 0. 318 cm wide, terminating 36 cm from the...series, the two PCB 118 transducers performed ratisfactorily for 71 shots and displayod no indications of imminent failure, 20 I1I Iz AFFDL-TR-75-5...75-5 Shot No. 4951; velocity 215 rn/s Shot No. 4965; velocity Z01 rn/s A-3 AFFDL-TR-75-5 Shot No. 2986; velocity 71 rn/s Shot No. 4987; velocity 105 i
Elliptic operators with unbounded diffusion, drift and potential terms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boutiah, S. E.; Gregorio, F.; Rhandi, A.; Tacelli, C.

2018-02-01

We prove that the realization Ap in Lp (RN) , 1 < p < ∞, of the elliptic operator A = (1 + | x|α) Δ + b | x| α - 1 x/|x| ṡ ∇ - c | x|β with domain D (Ap) = { u ∈W 2 , p (RN) | Au ∈Lp (RN) } generates a strongly continuous analytic semigroup T (ṡ) provided that α > 2 , β > α - 2 and any constants b ∈ R and c > 0. This generalizes the recent results in [4] and in [16]. Moreover we show that T (ṡ) is consistent, immediately compact and ultracontractive.
Investigating Information Dynamics in Living Systems through the Structure and Function of Enzymes.

PubMed

Gatenby, Robert; Frieden, B Roy

2016-01-01

Enzymes are proteins that accelerate intracellular chemical reactions often by factors of 105-1012s-1. We propose the structure and function of enzymes represent the thermodynamic expression of heritable information encoded in DNA with post-translational modifications that reflect intra- and extra-cellular environmental inputs. The 3 dimensional shape of the protein, determined by the genetically-specified amino acid sequence and post translational modifications, permits geometric interactions with substrate molecules traditionally described by the key-lock best fit model. Here we apply Kullback-Leibler (K-L) divergence as metric of this geometric "fit" and the information content of the interactions. When the K-L 'distance' between interspersed substrate pn and enzyme rn positions is minimized, the information state, reaction probability, and reaction rate are maximized. The latter obeys the Arrhenius equation, which we show can be derived from the geometrical principle of minimum K-L distance. The derivation is first limited to optimum substrate positions for fixed sets of enzyme positions. However, maximally improving the key/lock fit, called 'induced fit,' requires both sets of positions to be varied optimally. We demonstrate this permits and is maximally efficient if the key and lock particles pn, rn are quantum entangled because the level of entanglement obeys the same minimized value of the Kullback-Leibler distance that occurs when all pn ≈ rn. This implies interchanges pn ⇄ brn randomly taking place during a reaction successively improves key/lock fits, reducing the activation energy Ea and increasing the reaction rate k. Our results demonstrate the summation of heritable and environmental information that determines the enzyme spatial configuration, by decreasing the K-L divergence, is converted to thermodynamic work by reducing Ea and increasing k of intracellular reactions. Macroscopically, enzyme information increases the order in living systems, similar to the Maxwell demon gedanken, by selectively accelerating specific reaction thus generating both spatial and temporal concentration gradients.
Radon and radioactivity at a town overlying Uranium ores in northern Greece.

PubMed

Kourtidis, K; Georgoulias, A K; Vlahopoulou, M; Tsirliganis, N; Kastelis, N; Ouzounis, K; Kazakis, N

2015-12-01

Extensive measurements of (222)Rn in the town of Xanthi in N Greece show that the part of the town overlying granite deposits and the outcrop of a uranium ore has exceptionally high indoor radon levels, with monthly means up to 1500 Bq m(-3). A large number of houses (40%) in this part of the town exhibit radon levels above 200 Bq m(-3) while 11% of the houses had radon levels above 400 Bq m(-3). Substantial interannual variability as well as the highest in Europe winter/summer ratios (up to 12) were observed in this part of the town, which consist of traditional stone masonry buildings of the late 19th-early 20th century. Measurements of (238)U and (232)Th content of building materials from these houses as well as radionuclide measurements in different floors show that the high levels of indoor radon measured in these buildings are not due to high radon emanation rates from the building materials themselves but rather due to high radon flux from the soil because of the underlying geology, high radon penetration rates into the buildings from underground due to the lack of solid concrete foundations in these buildings, or a combination thereof. From the meteorological variables studied, highest correlation with indoor (222)Rn was found with temperature (r(2) = 0.65). An indoor radon prognostic regression model using temperature, pressure and precipitation as input was developed, that reproduced indoor radon with r(2) = 0.69. Hence, meteorology is the main driving factor of indoor radon, with temperature being the most important determinant. Preliminary flux measurements indicate that the soil-atmosphere (222)Rn flux should be in the range 150-250 Bq m(-2) h(-1), which is in the upper 10% of flux values for Europe. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Submarine groundwater discharge in the Sarasota Bay system: Its assessment and implications for the nearshore coastal environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mwashote, B. M.; Murray, M.; Burnett, W. C.; Chanton, J.; Kruse, S.; Forde, A.

2013-02-01

A study was conducted from July 2002 through June 2006 in order to assess the significance of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) to Sarasota Bay (SB), Florida. The assessment approaches used in this study included manual seepage meters, geochemical tracers (radon, 222Rn and methane, CH4), and subseafloor resistivity measurements. The estimated SGD advection rates in the SB system were found to range from 0.7 to 24.0 cm/day, except for some isolated hot spot occurrences where higher rates were observed. In general, SGD estimates were relatively higher (5.9-24.0 cm/day) in the middle and south regions of the bay compared to the north region (0.7-5.9 cm/day). Average dissolved inorganic nutrient concentrations within the SB water column ranged: 0.1-11 μM (NO2+NO3), 0.1-9.1 μM (NH4) and 0.2-1.4 μM (PO4). The average N/P ratio was higher in the north compared to the middle and south regions of the bay. On average, we conservatively estimate that about 27% of the total N in the SB system was derived via SGD. The prevalence of shallow embayed areas in the SB system and the presence of numerous septic tanks in the surrounding settlements enhanced the potential effects of nutrient rich seepages. Statistical comparison of the quantitative approaches revealed a good agreement between SGD estimates from manual seepage meters and those derived from the 222Rn model (p=0.67; α=0.05; n=18). CH4 was found to be useful for qualitative SGD assessments. CH4 and 222Rn were correlated (r2=0.31; α=0.05; n=54). Large scale resistivity surveys showed spatial variability that correlates more clearly with lithology than with SGD patterns.
The effect of heat treatment on the corrosion resistance of 440C stainless steel in 20% HNO3 + 2.5% Na2Cr2O7 solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Savas, Terence P.; Wang, Allen Yi-Lan; Earthman, James C.

2003-04-01

The effect of heat treatment on the corrosion resistance of 440C stainless steel was investigated in a 20% HNO3 + 2.5% Na2Cr2O7 solution using electrochemical noise (ECN) measurements, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examinations. The noise resistance ( Rn), which has been found to be inversely related to the localized corrosion rate, was measured to be 5.7E + 08 Ω-cm2, 4.2E + 08 Ω-cm2, and 3.7E + 04 Ω-cm2 for the oil-quenched, air-quenched, and vacuum furnace cooled (VFC) samples, respectively, after 1200 s exposures. The Rn for all heat treat conditions stabilized within a range of 1.0E + 07 Ω-cm2 to 3.2E + 08 Ω-cm2 after 2 h exposures. The EIS response showed a polarization resistance ( R p) on the order of 6.6E + 04 Ω-cm2, 5.3E + 04 Ω-cm2, and 1.1E + 04 Ω-cm2 for the oil-quenched, air-quenched, and VFC samples, respectively, after 2 h exposures. The EIS data are in good agreement with ECN data and indicate that after longer exposures, general corrosion mechanisms dominate and the corrosion rates are comparable. SEM examinations of specimens subjected to 1200 s exposures revealed that severity of pitting and intergranular corrosion damage was consistent with trends in the Rn data. Specifically, the electrochemical noise data as well as SEM examinations of specimens revealed a higher localized corrosion resistance of the hardened specimens during the early stages of passivation. This greater resistance to localized corrosion can be attributed to an increased stability of the natural passive film resulting from a higher concentration of chromium atoms in solution for the martensite phase.
SU-E-T-133: Assessing IMRT Treatment Delivery Accuracy and Consistency On a Varian TrueBeam Using the SunNuclear PerFraction EPID Dosimetry Software

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Dieterich, S; Trestrail, E; Holt, R

2015-06-15

Purpose: To assess if the TrueBeam HD120 collimator is delivering small IMRT fields accurately and consistently throughout the course of treatment using the SunNuclear PerFraction software. Methods: 7-field IMRT plans for 8 canine patients who passed IMRT QA using SunNuclear Mapcheck DQA were selected for this study. The animals were setup using CBCT image guidance. The EPID fluence maps were captured for each treatment field and each treatment fraction, with the first fraction EPID data serving as the baseline for comparison. The Sun Nuclear PerFraction Software was used to compare the EPID data for subsequent fractions using a Gamma (3%/3mm)more » pass rate of 90%. To simulate requirements for SRS, the data was reanalyzed using a Gamma (3%/1mm) pass rate of 90%. Low-dose, low- and high gradient thresholds were used to focus the analysis on clinically relevant parts of the dose distribution. Results: Not all fractions could be analyzed, because during some of the treatment courses the DICOM tags in the EPID images intermittently change from CU to US (unspecified), which would indicate a temporary loss of EPID calibration. This technical issue is still being investigated. For the remaining fractions, the vast majority (7/8 of patients, 95% of fractions, and 96.6% of fields) are passing the less stringent Gamma criteria. The more stringent Gamma criteria caused a drop in pass rate (90 % of fractions, 84% of fields). For the patient with the lowest pass rate, wet towel bolus was used. Another patient with low pass rates experienced masseter muscle wasting. Conclusion: EPID dosimetry using the PerFraction software demonstrated that the majority of fields passed a Gamma (3%/3mm) for IMRT treatments delivered with a TrueBeam HD120 MLC. Pass rates dropped for a DTA of 1mm to model SRS tolerances. PerFraction pass rates can flag missing bolus or internal shields. Sanjeev Saini is an employee of Sun Nuclear Corporation. For this study, a pre-release version of PerFRACTION 1.1 software from Sun Nuclear Corporation was used.« less
IL1RN Variation Influences both Disease Susceptibility and Response to Human Recombinant IL-1RA Therapy in Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.

PubMed

Arthur, Victoria L; Shuldiner, Emily; Remmers, Elaine F; Hinks, Anne; Grom, Alexei A; Foell, Dirk; Martini, Alberto; Gattorno, Marco; Özen, Seza; Prahalad, Sampath; Zeft, Andrew S; Bohnsack, John F; Ilowite, Norman T; Mellins, Elizabeth D; Russo, Ricardo; Len, Claudio; Oliveira, Sheila; Yeung, Rae S M; Rosenberg, Alan M; Wedderburn, Lucy R; Anton, Jordi; Haas, Johannes-Peter; Rösen-Wolff, Angela; Minden, Kirsten; Szymanski, Ann Marie; Thomson, Wendy; Kastner, Daniel L; Woo, Patricia; Ombrello, Michael J

2018-04-02

To determine whether systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis (sJIA) susceptibility loci identified by candidate gene studies demonstrated association with sJIA in the largest study population assembled to date. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from 11 previously reported sJIA risk loci were examined for association in 9 populations, including 770 sJIA cases and 6947 control subjects. The effect of sJIA-associated SNPs on gene expression was evaluated in silico in paired whole genome and RNA sequencing data from lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL) of 373 European 1000 Genomes Project subjects. The relationship between sJIA-associated SNPs and response to anakinra treatment was evaluated in 38 US patients for whom treatment response data were available. We found no association of the 26 SNPs previously reported as sJIA-associated. Expanded analysis of the regions containing the 26 SNPs revealed only one significant association, the promoter region of IL1RN (p<1E-4). sJIA-associated SNPs correlated with IL1RN expression in LCLs, with an inverse correlation between sJIA risk and IL1RN expression. The presence of homozygous IL1RN high expression alleles correlated strongly with non-response to anakinra therapy (OR 28.7 [3.2, 255.8]). IL1RN was the only candidate locus associated with sJIA in our study. The implicated SNPs are among the strongest known determinants of IL1RN and IL1RA levels, linking low expression with increased sJIA risk. Homozygous high expression alleles predicted non-response to anakinra therapy, nominating them as candidate biomarkers to guide sJIA treatment. This is an important first step towards the personalized treatment of sJIA. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Analysis of the relationships between environmental noise and urban morphology.

PubMed

Han, Xiaopeng; Huang, Xin; Liang, Hong; Ma, Song; Gong, Jianya

2018-02-01

Understanding the effects of urban morphology on urban environmental noise (UEN) at a regional scale is crucial for creating a pleasant urban acoustic environment. This study seeks to investigate how the urban morphology influences the UEN in the Shenzhen metropolitan region of China, by employing remote sensing and geographic information data. The UEN in this study consists of not only regional environmental noise (RN), but also traffic noise (TN). The experimental results reveal the following findings: 1) RN is positively correlated with the nighttime light intensity (NTL) and land surface temperature (LST) (p < 0.05). More interestingly, landscape composition and configuration can also significantly affect RN. For instance, urban vegetation can mitigate the RN (r = -0.411, p < 0.01). There is a reduced RN effect when fewer buildings exist in an urban landscape, in terms of the positive relationship between building density and RN (r = 0.188, p < 0.01). Given the same percentage of building area, buildings are more effective at reducing noise when they are distributed across the urban scenes, rather than being spatially concentrated (r = -0.205, p < 0.01). 2) TN positively relates to large (r = 0.520, p < 0.01) and small-medium (r = 0.508, p < 0.01) vehicle flow. In addition, vegetation along or near roads can alleviate the TN effect (r = -0.342, p < 0.01). TN can also become more severe in urban landscapes where there is higher road density (r = 0.307, p < 0.01). 3) Concerning the urban functional zones, traffic land is the greatest contributor to urban RN, followed by mixed residential and commercial land. The findings revealed by this research will indicate how to mitigate UEN. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Interaction of IL1B and IL1RN polymorphisms, smoking habit, gender, and ethnicity with aggressive and chronic periodontitis susceptibility.

PubMed

Ribeiro, Magali Silveira Monteiro; Pacheco, Renata Botelho Antunes; Fischer, Ricardo Guimarães; Macedo, Jacyara Maria Brito

2016-01-01

Although the interleukin-1 (IL-1) plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of periodontitis, associations between IL1 gene cluster polymorphisms and the disease remains unclear. To investigate the importance of IL1B-511C>T (rs16944), IL1B +3954C>T (rs1143634), and IL1RN intron 2 variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) (rs2234663) polymorphisms, individually or in combination, as the risk factors of periodontitis in a Southeastern Brazilian population with a high degree of miscegenation. A total of 145 individuals, with aggressive (aggressive periodontitis [AgP], n = 43) and chronic (chronic periodontitis [CP], n = 52) periodontitis, and controls (n = 50) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) (IL1RN intron 2 VNTR) or PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) (IL1B-511 C>T and IL1B + 3954C>T) techniques. The independent t-test, Chi-square, and Fisher's exact tests were used. The SNPStats program was used for haplotype estimation and multiplicative interaction analyses. The IL1B +3954T allele represented risk for CP (odds ratio [OR] = 2.84), particularly in smokers (OR = 4.43) and females (OR = 6.00). The minor alleles IL1RN*2 and *3 increased the risk of AgP (OR = 2.18), especially the IL1RN*2*2 genotype among white Brazilians (OR = 7.80). Individuals with the combinations of the IL1B + 3954T and IL1RN*2 or *3-containing genotypes were at increased risk of developing CP (OR = 4.50). Considering the three polymorphisms (rs16944, rs1143634, and rs2234663), the haplotypes TC2 and CT1 represented risk for AgP (OR = 3.41) and CP (OR = 6.39), respectively. Our data suggest that the IL1B +3954C>T and IL1RN intron 2 VNTR polymorphisms are potential candidates for genetic biomarkers of periodontitis, particularly in specific groups of individuals.
Interleukin 1 β (IL-1B) and IL-1 antagonist receptor (IL-1RN) gene polymorphisms are associated with the genetic susceptibility and steroid dependence in patients with ulcerative colitis.

PubMed

Yamamoto-Furusho, Jesús K; Santiago-Hernández, Jean J; Pérez-Hernández, Nonanzit; Ramírez-Fuentes, Silvestre; Fragoso, José Manuel; Vargas-Alarcón, Gilberto

2011-07-01

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease of unknown etiology. Among cytokines induced in UC, interleukin 1 antagonist (IL-1ra) and interleukin 1 β (IL-1β) seems to have a central role because of its immunoregulatory and proinflammatory activities. To determine the association between IL-1RA and IL-1B gene polymorphisms and the clinical features of UC in the Mexican Mestizo population. Five polymorphisms in the IL-1 gene cluster members IL-1B (rs16944), IL1F10 (rs3811058), and IL-1RN (rs419598, rs315952, and rs315951) were genotyped by 5' exonuclease TaqMan genotyping assays in a group of 200 Mexican patients with UC and 248 ethnically matched unrelated healthy controls. We found a significant increased frequencies of IL-1RN6/1 TC (rs315952) and RN6/2 CC (rs315951) and decreased frequency of IL-1B-511 TC (rs16944) genotypes in UC patients as compared with healthy controls. In the subgroup analysis, we found a significant association between the RN6/2 GG (rs315951) and IL-1B-511 CC (rs16944) genotypes and the presence of steroid-dependence in UC patients (pC=00001, OR=15.6 and pC=0.008, OR=4.09, respectively). Patients with UC showed increased frequencies of IL-1RN "CTC" and "TCG" haplotypes when compared with healthy controls (P=0.019, OR=1.43 and P<10(-7), OR=2.63, respectively). Two haplotypes (TTG and CTG) showed decreased frequency in patients when compared with healthy controls (P=9×10(-7), OR=0.11 and P=8×10(-6), OR=0.11, respectively). IL-1 RN and IL-1B polymorphisms were associated with the genetic susceptibility to develop UC and might be associated with the presence of steroid-dependence in UC patients.
Impact of Front Range sources on reactive nitrogen concentrations and deposition in Rocky Mountain National Park

PubMed Central

Prenni, Anthony J.; Sullivan, Amy P.; Evanoski-Cole, Ashley R.; Fischer, Emily V.; Callahan, Sara; Sive, Barkley C.; Zhou, Yong; Schichtel, Bret A.; Collett Jr, Jeffrey L.

2018-01-01

Human influenced atmospheric reactive nitrogen (RN) is impacting ecosystems in Rocky Mountain National Park (ROMO). Due to ROMO’s protected status as a Class 1 area, these changes are concerning, and improving our understanding of the contributions of different types of RN and their sources is important for reducing impacts in ROMO. In July–August 2014 the most comprehensive measurements (to date) of RN were made in ROMO during the Front Range Air Pollution and Photochemistry Éxperiment (FRAPPÉ). Measurements included peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN), C1–C5 alkyl nitrates, and high-time resolution NOx, NOy, and ammonia. A limited set of measurements was extended through October. Co-located measurements of a suite of volatile organic compounds provide information on source types impacting ROMO. Specifically, we use ethane as a tracer of oil and gas operations and tetrachloroethylene (C2Cl4) as an urban tracer to investigate their relationship with RN species and transport patterns. Results of this analysis suggest elevated RN concentrations are associated with emissions from oil and gas operations, which are frequently co-located with agricultural production and livestock feeding areas in the region, and from urban areas. There also are periods where RN at ROMO is impacted by long-range transport. We present an atmospheric RN budget and a nitrogen deposition budget with dry and wet components. Total deposition for the period (7/1–9/30) was estimated at 1.58 kg N/ha, with 87% from wet deposition during this period of above average precipitation. Ammonium wet deposition was the dominant contributor to total nitrogen deposition followed by nitrate wet deposition and total dry deposition. Ammonia was estimated to be the largest contributor to dry deposition followed by nitric acid and PAN (other species included alkyl nitrates, ammonium and nitrate). All three species are challenging to measure routinely, especially at high time resolution.
Application of spectral decomposition of ²²²Rn activity concentration signal series measured in Niedźwiedzia Cave to identification of mechanisms responsible for different time-period variations.

PubMed

Przylibski, Tadeusz Andrzej; Wyłomańska, Agnieszka; Zimroz, Radosław; Fijałkowska-Lichwa, Lidia

2015-10-01

The authors present an application of spectral decomposition of (222)Rn activity concentration signal series as a mathematical tool used for distinguishing processes determining temporal changes of radon concentration in cave air. The authors demonstrate that decomposition of monitored signal such as (222)Rn activity concentration in cave air facilitates characterizing the processes affecting changes in the measured concentration of this gas. Thanks to this, one can better correlate and characterize the influence of various processes on radon behaviour in cave air. Distinguishing and characterising these processes enables the understanding of radon behaviour in cave environment and it may also enable and facilitate using radon as a precursor of geodynamic phenomena in the lithosphere. Thanks to the conducted analyses, the authors confirmed the unquestionable influence of convective air exchange between the cave and the atmosphere on seasonal and short-term (diurnal) changes in (222)Rn activity concentration in cave air. Thanks to the applied methodology of signal analysis and decomposition, the authors also identified a third process affecting (222)Rn activity concentration changes in cave air. This is a deterministic process causing changes in radon concentration, with a distribution different from the Gaussian one. The authors consider these changes to be the effect of turbulent air movements caused by the movement of visitors in caves. This movement is heterogeneous in terms of the number of visitors per group and the number of groups visiting a cave per day and per year. Such a process perfectly elucidates the observed character of the registered changes in (222)Rn activity concentration in one of the decomposed components of the analysed signal. The obtained results encourage further research into precise relationships between the registered (222)Rn activity concentration changes and factors causing them, as well as into using radon as a precursor of geodynamic phenomena in the lithosphere. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
A Respiratory Marker Derived From Left Vagus Nerve Signals Recorded With Implantable Cuff Electrodes.

PubMed

Sevcencu, Cristian; Nielsen, Thomas N; Kjaergaard, Benedict; Struijk, Johannes J

2018-04-01

Left vagus nerve (LVN) stimulation (LVNS) has been tested for lowering the blood pressure (BP) in patients with resistant hypertension (RH). Whereas, closed-loop LVNS (CL-LVNS) driven by a BP marker may be superior to open-loop LVNS, there are situations (e.g., exercising) when hypertension is normal. Therefore, an ideal anti-RH CL-LVNS system requires a variable to avoid stimulation in such conditions, for example, a respiratory marker ideally extracted from the LVN. As the LVN conducts respiratory signals, this study aimed to investigate if such signals can be recorded using implantable means and if a marker to monitor respiration could be derived from such recordings. The experiments were performed in 14 anesthetized pigs. Five pigs were subjected to changes of the respiratory frequency and nine to changes of the respiratory volume. The LVN electroneurogram (VENG) was recorded using two cuff electrodes and the respiratory cycles (RC) using a pressure transducer. To separate the afferent and efferent VENGs, vagotomy was performed between the cuffs in the first group of pigs. The VENG was squared to derive respiration-related neural profiles (RnPs) and their correlation with the RCs was investigated in regard to timing and magnitude parameters derived from the two waveforms. The RnPs were morphologically similar with the RCs and the average RnPs represented accurate copies of the average RCs. Consequently, the lung inflation/deflation RC and RnP components had the same duration, the respiratory frequency changes affected in the same way both waveforms and the RnP amplitude increased linearly with the lung inflation in all tested pigs (R 2 values between 0.85 and 0.99). The RnPs comprise information regarding the timing and magnitude of the respiratory parameters. As those LVN profiles were derived using implantable means, this study indicates that the RnPs could serve as respiratory markers in implantable systems. © 2017 International Neuromodulation Society.
An untapped resource in the nursing workforce: Licensed practical nurses who transition to become registered nurses.

PubMed

Jones, Cheryl B; Toles, Mark; Knafl, George J; Beeber, Anna S

A more diverse registered nurse (RN) workforce is needed to provide health care in North Carolina (NC) and nationally. Studies describing licensed practical nurse (LPN) career transitions to RNs are lacking. To characterize the occurrence of LPN-to-RN professional transitions; compare key characteristics of LPNs who do and do not make such a transition; and compare key characteristics of LPNs who do transition in the years prior to and following their transition. A retrospective design was conducted using licensure data on LPNs from 2001 to 2013. Cohorts were constructed based on year of graduation. Of 39,398 LPNs in NC between 2001 and 2013, there were 3,161 LPNs (8.0%) who had a LPN-to-RN career transition between 2001 and 2013. LPNs were more likely to transition to RN if they were male; from Asian, American Indian, or other racial groups; held an associate or baccalaureate degree in their last year as an LPN (or their last year in the study if they did not transition); worked in a hospital inpatient setting; worked in the medical-surgical nursing specialty; and were from a rural area. Our findings indicate that the odds of an LPN-to-RN transition were greater if LPNs were: male; from all other racial groups except white; of a younger age at their first LPN licensure; working in a hospital setting; working in the specialty of medical-surgical nursing; employed part-time; or working in a rural setting during the last year as an LPN. This study fills an important gap in our knowledge of LPN-to-RN transitions. Policy efforts are needed to incentivize: LPNs to make a LPN-to-RN transition; educational entities to create and communicate curricular pathways; and employers to support LPNs in making the transition. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Retiree benefit mailing dates | Alaska Division of Retirement and Benefits

Science.gov Websites

Employee Retiring Retiree Disabled Survivor Features Empower Retirement Account Info Online myRnB Member Scheduler Empower Retirement Account Info Online myRnB Member Services Seminars AlaskaCare Wellness Forms
Mapping surface energy balance components by combining landsat thematic mapper and ground-based meteorological data

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moran, M.S.; Jackson, R. D.; Raymond, L.H.; Gay, L.W.; Slater, P.N.

1989-01-01

Surface energy balance components were evaluated by combining satellite-based spectral data with on-site measurements of solar irradiance, air temperature, wind speed, and vapor pressure. Maps of latent heat flux density (??E) and net radiant flux density (Rn) were produced using Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) data for three dates: 23 July 1985, 5 April 1986, and 24 June 1986. On each date, a Bowen-ratio apparatus, located in a vegetated field, was used to measure ??E and Rn at a point within the field. Estimates of ??E and Rn were also obtained using radiometers aboard an aircraft flown at 150 m above ground level. The TM-based estimates differed from the Bowen-ratio and aircraft-based estimates by less than 12 % over mature fields of cotton, wheat, and alfalfa, where ??E and Rn ranged from 400 to 700 Wm-2. ?? 1989.
THORON-SCOUT - first diffusion based active Radon and Thoron monitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wagner, W.; Streil, T.; Oeser, V.; Horak, G.; Duzynski, M.

2016-10-01

THORON-SCOUT is a stand-alone diffusion based active Radon and Thoron monitor for long term indoor measurements to evaluate the human health risk due to activity concentration in the breathing air. Alpha-particle spectroscopy of Po isotopes, being the progeny of the decay of the radioactive noble gas Radon, is applied to separately monitor activity contributions of 222Rn and 220Rn (Thoron) as well. In this work we show that the portion of Thoron (Tn) may locally be remarkable and even dominating and cannot be neglected as often has been assumed up to now. Along with tobacco consumption, Rn radioactivity turned out to be a dangerous cause of lung cancer, especially in older badly vented buildings situated in regions of radioactive geological formations. THORON-SCOUT allows a precise examination of the indoor atmosphere with respect to Rn and Inactivity concentration and, therefore, a realistic evaluation of corresponding health risk.
Observing how RNs use clinical time in a nursing home: a pilot study.

PubMed

Dellefield, Mary Ellen; Harrington, Charlene; Kelly, Ann

2012-01-01

Registered nurses (RNs) working in nursing homes (NHs) are a scarce professional resource. Their responsibilities include direct (e.g., assessment, physical care, and medication administration) and indirect care (e.g., documentation, supervision, and other activities performed away from the resident to manage their care environment). The purpose of the study was to describe the direct and indirect care distribution of RNs working day shift in an NH. All RN care was observed, although RN care associated with pressure ulcer prevention as a clinical outcome was highlighted. Work sampling was conducted using a personal data assistant-based RN Observation Measure. RNs spent 59% of their time on indirect care. Little direct care could be linked with specific clinical categories relevant to pressure ulcer prevention. RNs are challenged to use RN clinical time more strategically. Copyright © 2012 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

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