Sample records for study evaluating ekb-569

  1. Irreversible EGFR Inhibitor EKB-569 Targets Low-LET γ-Radiation-Triggered Rel Orchestration and Potentiates Cell Death in Squamous Cell Carcinoma

    PubMed Central

    Aravindan, Natarajan; Thomas, Charles R.; Aravindan, Sheeja; Mohan, Aswathi S.; Veeraraghavan, Jamunarani; Natarajan, Mohan

    2011-01-01

    EKB-569 (Pelitinib), an irreversible EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor has shown potential therapeutic efficiency in solid tumors. However, cell-killing potential in combination with radiotherapy and its underlying molecular orchestration remain to be explored. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of EKB-569 on ionizing radiation (IR)-associated NFκB-dependent cell death. SCC-4 and SCC-9 cells exposed to IR (2Gy) with and without EKB-569 treatment were analyzed for transactivation of 88 NFκB pathway molecules, NFκB DNA-binding activity, translation of the NFκB downstream mediators, Birc1, 2 and 5, cell viability, metabolic activity and apoptosis. Selective targeting of IR-induced NFκB by EKB-569 and its influence on cell-fate were assessed by overexpressing (p50/p65) and silencing (ΔIκBα) NFκB. QPCR profiling after IR exposure revealed a significant induction of 74 NFκB signal transduction molecules. Of those, 72 were suppressed with EKB-569. EMSA revealed a dose dependent inhibition of NFκB by EKB-569. More importantly, EKB-569 inhibited IR-induced NFκB in a dose-dependent manner, and this inhibition was sustained up to at least 72 h. Immunoblotting revealed a significant suppression of IR-induced Birc1, 2 and 5 by EKB-569. We observed a dose-dependent inhibition of cell viability, metabolic activity and apoptosis with EKB-569. EKB-569 significantly enhanced IR-induced cell death and apoptosis. Blocking NFκB improved IR-induced cell death. Conversely, NFκB overexpression negates EKB-569 -induced cell-killing. Together, these pre-clinical data suggest that EKB-569 is a radiosensitizer of squamous cell carcinoma and may mechanistically involve selective targeting of IR-induced NFκB-dependent survival signaling. Further pre-clinical in-vivo studies are warranted. PMID:22242139

  2. Extrusion decreases the negative effects of kidney bean on enzyme and transport activities of the rat small intestine.

    PubMed

    Marzo, F; Milagro, F I; Urdaneta, E; Barrenetxe, J; Ibañez, F C

    2011-10-01

    The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of raw and extruded kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L. var. Pinto) consumption on the gut physiology of young growing rats. The intestinal enzyme activity (sucrase, maltase, Na(+) /K(+) ATPase, aminopeptidase N, dipeptidylpeptidase IV, alkaline phosphatase) and the uptake of sugar (d-galactose) and amino acids (l-leucine) were measured in brush border membrane vesicles. Five groups of growing male Wistar rats were fed ad libitum for 15 days on five different 10% protein diets: one containing casein as the main source of protein (Control, C), and four containing raw (RKB1, RKB6) or extruded kidney bean (EKB1, EKB6) at 1% and 6% of total protein content respectively. Extrusion treatment significantly reduced the content of bioactive factors (phytates, tannins) and abolished lectins, trypsin, chymotrypsin, and α-amylase inhibitory activities. Rats fed raw beans (especially RKB6) showed lower growth rate and food intake as compared to those fed extruded legumes, probably due to the high levels of lectins and other anti-nutritive factors in the raw beans. Gut enzymatic activities and uptake of d-galactose and l-leucine were lower in RKB6 and RKB1-fed animals, although they significantly improved in the groups fed extruded beans. Enzymatic activity and uptake in EKB1 were similar to those of casein-fed rats, whereas the uptake and growth rate of EKB6 were different to the control. This is attributable to the higher non-thermolabile biofactor content in the EKB6 diet, especially phytates and tannins, than in EKB1. This article shows the dose-dependent toxicological effects of bioactive factors contained in kidney beans on gut function. The extrusion process reduced their adverse impact on gut physiology and growth rate. © 2010 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

  3. The Evolution of Saturn's Rings Under the Influence of the Edgeworth-Kuiper Belt Micrometeoroid Flux: Tightening the Constraints on Ring Age

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Estrada, Paul R.; Durisen, Richard H.; Cuzzi, Jeffrey N.

    2016-10-01

    Results of the Cassini Dust Analyzer (CDA) experiment indicate that the determined range of the micrometeoroid flux at infinity for Saturn (Altobelli et al., 2015) may be comparable to the nominal value of the incident, flat-plate and one-sided meteoroid flux value currently adopted for use in ballistic transport applications and models (e.g., Estrada et al., 2015). Moreover, the source of the micrometeoroid flux has been localized to the Edgeworth-Kuiper Belt (EKB) and is not cometary in origin as previously assumed. Apart from suggesting an altogether different composition for the ring pollutant, a major consequence of these new measurements is that the EKB flux is much more gravitationally focused than the cometary case because it is isotropic in the planet rather than the heliocentric frame. Thus, the lower velocities at infinity that characterize the EKB flux can increase the impact flux on the rings by a factor of ˜25. This means that even for the lower bound of the range of the newly measured flux, the amount of material hitting the rings may be considerably higher and thus the process of micrometeoroid bombardment and ballistic transport is likely even more influential in the rings' structural and compositional evolution over time. Here, we calculate the new EKB ejecta distribution using the model of Cuzzi and Durisen (1990) and compare this with the nominal cometary one, and then demonstrate using new simulations the consequences of the EKB flux on the evolution of ring composition and structure. The constraining of the micrometeoroid flux represents a very important step in being able to associate an absolute age for the rings. We argue that the new EKB flux poses a serious problem for "primordial" or "old" ring origin scenarios and favors more a scenario in which the rings, at least the way we see them today, cannot be much older than a few 100 Myrs.

  4. Perceptual telerobotics

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ligomenides, Panos A.

    1989-01-01

    A sensory world modeling system, congruent with a human expert's perception, is proposed. The Experiential Knowledge Base (EKB) system can provide a highly intelligible communication interface for telemonitoring and telecontrol of a real time robotic system operating in space. Paradigmatic acquisition of empirical perceptual knowledge, and real time experiential pattern recognition and knowledge integration are reviewed. The cellular architecture and operation of the EKB system are also examined.

  5. Migration of Matter from the Edgeworth-Kuiper and Main Asteroid Belts to the Earth

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ipatov. S. I.; Oegerle, William (Technical Monitor)

    2002-01-01

    The main asteroid belt (MAB), the Edgeworth-Kuiper belt (EKB), and comets belong to the main sources of dust in the Solar System. Most of Jupiter-family comets came from the EKB. Comets can be distracted due to close encounters with planets and the Sun, collisions with small bodies, a nd internal forces. We support the Eneev's idea that the largest objects in the ELB and MAB could be formed directly by the compression of rarefied dust condensations of the protoplanetary cloud but not by the accretion of small (for example, 1-km) planetesimals. The total mass of planetesimals that entered the EKB from the feeding zone of the giant planets during their accumulation could exceed tens of Earth's masses. These planetesimals increased eccentricities of 'local' trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) and swept most of these TNOs. A small portion of such planetesimals could left beyond Neptune's orbit in highly eccentric orbits. The results of previous investigations of migration and collisional evolution of minor bodies were summarized. Mainly our recent results are presented.

  6. Dust ablation in Pluto's atmosphere

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Horanyi, Mihaly; Poppe, Andrew; Sternovsky, Zoltan

    2016-04-01

    Based on measurements by dust detectors onboard the Pioneer 10/11 and New Horizons spacecraft the total production rate of dust particles born in the Edgeworth Kuiper Belt (EKB) has been be estimated to be on the order of 5 ṡ 103 kg/s in the approximate size range of 1 - 10 μm. Dust particles are produced by collisions between EKB objects and their bombardment by both interplanetary and interstellar dust particles. Dust particles of EKB origin, in general, migrate towards the Sun due to Poynting-Robertson drag but their distributions are further sculpted by mean-motion resonances as they first approach the orbit of Neptune and later the other planets, as well as mutual collisions. Subsequently, Jupiter will eject the vast majority of them before they reach the inner solar system. The expected mass influx into Pluto atmosphere is on the order of 200 kg/day, and the arrival speed of the incoming particles is on the order of 3 - 4 km/s. We have followed the ablation history as function of speed and size of dust particles in Pluto's atmosphere, and found that volatile rich particles can fully sublimate due to drag heating and deposit their mass in narrow layers. This deposition might promote the formation of the haze layers observed by the New Horizons spacecraft. This talk will explore the constraints on the composition of the dust particles by comparing the altitude of the deposition layers to the observed haze layers.

  7. Toward the azimuthal characteristics of ionospheric and seismic effects of "Chelyabinsk" meteorite fall according to the data from coherent radar, GPS, and seismic networks

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Berngardt, O. I.; Perevalova, N. P.; Dobrynina, A. A.; Kutelev, K. A.; Shestakov, N. V.; Bakhtiarov, V. F.; Kusonsky, O. A.; Zagretdinov, R. V.; Zherebtsov, G. A.

    2015-12-01

    We present the results of a study of the azimuthal characteristics of ionospheric and seismic effects of the meteorite `Chelyabinsk,' based on the data from the network of GPS receivers, coherent decameter radar EKB, and network of seismic stations, located near the meteorite fall trajectory. It is shown that 6-14 min after the bolide explosion, GPS network observed the cone-shaped wavefront of traveling ionospheric disturbances (TIDs) that is interpreted as a ballistic acoustic wave. The typical TIDs propagation velocity were observed 661 ± 256 m/s, which corresponds to the expected acoustic wave speed for 240 km height. Fourteen minutes after the bolide explosion, at distances of 200 km, we observed the emergence and propagation of a TID with annular wavefront that is interpreted as gravitational mode of internal atmospheric waves. The propagation velocity of this TID was 337 ± 89 m/s which corresponds to the propagation velocity of these waves in similar situations. At EKB radar, we observed TIDs in the sector of azimuthal angles close to the perpendicular to the meteorite trajectory. The observed TID velocity (400 m/s) and azimuthal properties correlate well with the model of ballistic wave propagating at 120-140 km altitude. It is shown that the azimuthal distribution of the amplitude of vertical seismic oscillations with periods 3-60 s can be described qualitatively by the model of vertical strike-slip rupture, propagating at 1 km/s along the meteorite fall trajectory to distance of about 40 km. These parameters correspond to the direction and velocity of propagation of the ballistic wave peak by the ground. It is shown that the model of ballistic wave caused by supersonic motion and burning of the meteorite in the upper atmosphere can satisfactorily explain the various azimuthal ionospheric effects, observed by the coherent decameter radar EKB, GPS receivers network, and the azimuthal characteristics of seismic waves at large distances.

  8. First Joint Observations of Radio Aurora by the VHF and HF Radars of the ISTP SB RAS

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Berngardt, O. I.; Lebedev, V. P.; Kutelev, K. A.; Kushnarev, D. S.; Grkovich, K. V.

    2018-01-01

    Two modern radars for diagnosis of the ionosphere by the radio-wave backscattering method, namely, the Irkutsk incoherent scatter radar at VHF (IISR, 154-162 MHz) and the Ekaterinburg coherent radar at HF (EKB, 8-20 MHz) are operated at the Institute of Solar-Terrestrial Physics, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ISTP SB RAS). The paper analyzes the results of joint observations of strong scattering (radio aurora) on June 8, 2015. To determine the geographical position of the radio aurora, we developed original methods that take into account both the features of the radio-wave propagation and the features of the radar antenna systems. It is shown that there are areas where the spatial position of the HF and VHF radio aurora can coincide. This permits using the radars as a single complex for diagnosis of the characteristics of small-scale high-latitude irregularities in the ionospheric E and F layers. A comparative analysis of the characteristics and temporal dynamics of the radio-aurora region in the HF and VHF ranges is performed. Using the DMSP satellite data, it has been shown that the radio aurora dynamics during this experiment with the EKB radar can be related with the spatial dynamics of the localized area with high electric field, which moves from high to equatorial latitudes. It is found that due to the broader field of view, radio aurora at the HF radar was stably observed 6-12 min earlier than at the VHF radar. This permits using the EKB radar data for prediction of the radio-aurora detection by the IISR radar.

  9. Developing an ontological explosion knowledge base for business continuity planning purposes.

    PubMed

    Mohammadfam, Iraj; Kalatpour, Omid; Golmohammadi, Rostam; Khotanlou, Hasan

    2013-01-01

    Industrial accidents are among the most known challenges to business continuity. Many organisations have lost their reputation following devastating accidents. To manage the risks of such accidents, it is necessary to accumulate sufficient knowledge regarding their roots, causes and preventive techniques. The required knowledge might be obtained through various approaches, including databases. Unfortunately, many databases are hampered by (among other things) static data presentations, a lack of semantic features, and the inability to present accident knowledge as discrete domains. This paper proposes the use of Protégé software to develop a knowledge base for the domain of explosion accidents. Such a structure has a higher capability to improve information retrieval compared with common accident databases. To accomplish this goal, a knowledge management process model was followed. The ontological explosion knowledge base (EKB) was built for further applications, including process accident knowledge retrieval and risk management. The paper will show how the EKB has a semantic feature that enables users to overcome some of the search constraints of existing accident databases.

  10. Effects of MERTK Inhibitors UNC569 and UNC1062 on the Growth of Acute Myeloid Leukaemia Cells.

    PubMed

    Koda, Yuki; Itoh, Mai; Tohda, Shuji

    2018-01-01

    MER proto-oncogene tyrosine kinase (MERTK) is a receptor tyrosine kinase that affects cancer cell proliferation. This study evaluated the effects of the synthetic MERTK inhibitors UNC569 and UNC1062 on in vitro growth of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) cells. Four AML cell lines expressing MERTK were treated with UNC569 and UNC1062 and analyzed for cell proliferation, immunoblotting, and gene expression. The effects of MERTK knockdown were also evaluated. Treatment with the inhibitors suppressed cell growth and induced apoptosis in all cell lines. OCI/AML5 and TMD7 cells, in which MERTK was constitutively phosphorylated by autocrine mechanisms, were highly susceptible to these inhibitors. The treatment reduced the phosphorylation of MERTK and its down-stream signalling molecules, v-akt murine thymoma viral oncogene homolog 1 (AKT) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Similar effects were observed after MERTK knockdown. The inhibitors and the knockdown caused similar changes in mRNA expression. These MERTK inhibitors are potential molecular-targeted drugs for treating AML expressing constitutively phosphorylated MERTK. Copyright© 2018, International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.

  11. Corrective Action Investigation Plan for Corrective Action Unit 569: Area 3 Yucca Flat Atmospheric Test Sites Nevada National Security Site, Nevada, Revision 0

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

    Patrick Matthews; Christy Sloop

    2012-02-01

    Corrective Action Unit (CAU) 569 is located in Area 3 of the Nevada National Security Site, which is approximately 65 miles northwest of Las Vegas, Nevada. Corrective Action Unit 569 comprises the nine numbered corrective action sites (CASs) and one newly identified site listed below: (1) 03-23-09, T-3 Contamination Area (hereafter referred to as Annie, Franklin, George, and Moth); (2) 03-23-10, T-3A Contamination Area (hereafter referred to as Harry and Hornet); (3) 03-23-11, T-3B Contamination Area (hereafter referred to as Fizeau); (4) 03-23-12, T-3S Contamination Area (hereafter referred to as Rio Arriba); (5) 03-23-13, T-3T Contamination Area (hereafter referred tomore » as Catron); (6) 03-23-14, T-3V Contamination Area (hereafter referred to as Humboldt); (7) 03-23-15, S-3G Contamination Area (hereafter referred to as Coulomb-B); (8) 03-23-16, S-3H Contamination Area (hereafter referred to as Coulomb-A); (9) 03-23-21, Pike Contamination Area (hereafter referred to as Pike); and (10) Waste Consolidation Site 3A. Because CAU 569 is a complicated site containing many types of releases, it was agreed during the data quality objectives (DQO) process that these sites will be grouped. These sites are being investigated because existing information on the nature and extent of potential contamination is insufficient to evaluate and recommend corrective action alternatives (CAAs). Additional information will be obtained by conducting a corrective action investigation before evaluating CAAs and selecting the appropriate corrective action for each study group. The results of the field investigation will support a defensible evaluation of viable CAAs that will be presented in the Corrective Action Decision Document. The sites will be investigated based on the DQOs developed on September 26, 2011, by representatives of the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office. The DQO process was used to identify and define the type, amount, and quality of data needed to develop and evaluate appropriate corrective actions for CAU 569. The presence and nature of contamination at CAU 569 will be evaluated based on information collected from a field investigation. Radiological contamination will be evaluated based on a comparison of the total effective dose (TED) at sample locations to the dose-based final action level (FAL). The TED will be calculated as the total of separate estimates of internal and external dose. Results from the analysis of soil samples will be used to calculate internal radiological dose. Thermoluminescent dosimeters placed at the center of each sample location will be used to measure external radiological dose. A field investigation will be performed to define any areas where TED exceeds the FAL and to determine whether contaminants of concern are present at the site from other potential releases. The presence and nature of contamination from other types of releases (e.g., excavation, migration, and any potential releases discovered during the investigation) will be evaluated using soil samples collected from biased locations indicating the highest levels of contamination. Appendix A provides a detailed discussion of the DQO methodology and the objectives specific to each study group.« less

  12. The Herschel DUNES Open Time Key Programme

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Danchi, William C.

    2009-01-01

    We will use the unique photometric capabilities provided by Herschel to perform a deep and systematic survey for faint, cold debris disks around nearby stars. Our sensitivity-limited Open Time Key Programme (OTKP) aims at finding and characterizing faint extrasolar analogues to the Edgeworth-Kuiper Belt (EKB) in an unbiased, statistically significant sample of nearby FGK main-sequence stars. Our target set spans a broad range of stellar ages (from 0.1 to 10 Gyr) and is volume-limited (distances < 20 pc). All stars with known extrasolar planets within this distance are included; additionally, some M- and A-type stars will be observed in collaboration with the Herschel DEBRIS OTKP, so that the entire sample covers a decade in stellar mass, from 0.2 to 2 solar masses. We will perform PACS and SPIRE photometric observations covering the wavelength range from 70 to 500 microns. The PACS observations at 100 microns have been designed to detect the stellar photospheres down to the confusion limit with a signal-to-noise ratio > 5. The observations in the other Herschel bands will allow us to characterize, model, and constrain the disks. As a result, it will be possible for us to reach fractional dust luminosities of a few times 10-7, close to the EKB level in the Solar System. This will provide an unprecedented lower limit to the fractional abundance of planetesimal systems and allow us to assess the presence of giant planets, which would play dynamical roles similar to those played by Jupiter and Neptune in the Solar System. The proposed observations will provide new and unique evidence for the presence of mature planetary systems in the solar neighbourhood and, in turn, will address the universality of planet/planetary system formation in disks around young stars.

  13. Intestinal distribution of Vibrio cholerae in orally infected infant mice: kinetics of recovery of radiolabel and viable cells.

    PubMed Central

    Baselski, V S; Parker, C D

    1978-01-01

    Kinetics of distribution of Vibrio cholerae in the gastrointestinal tract of orally challenged infant mice were examined by determining recovery of input dose from the whole gut and from individual segments of stomach, upper bowel, and lower bowel. The strains studied were 569B, CA401, and VB12 (a rough CA401). Recovery was determined as a percentage of either input radiolabel using 35S-labeled cells or input colony-forming units. We found clearance of radiolabel and viable cells from the stomach into the intestines by 2 h. Early whole-gut clearance of label was greater for 569B and heat-killed CA401 than for CA401, VB12, or Formalinized CA401. At early times postchallenge, significant differences occurred between strains in the upper bowel, with greater recovery of label and viable cells for CA401 than for 569B or VB12. Beginning at 8 h postchallenge, radiolabel accumulated in the lower bowel with all experimental groups except CA401-challenged mice, where diarrhea was noted and label disappeared from the intestines. In vitro evaluation of mucosal association of these strains with bowel sections was also done. CA401 and VB12 associated to a greater extent than 569B or heat-killed or Formalin-killed CA401. PMID:689734

  14. 46 CFR 169.569 - Fire axes.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 46 Shipping 7 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Fire axes. 169.569 Section 169.569 Shipping COAST GUARD... Firefighting Equipment Firefighting Equipment § 169.569 Fire axes. (a) Each vessel must carry at least the number of fire axes set forth in Table 169.569(a). The Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection may require...

  15. Parental Depression, Relationship Quality, and Nonresident Father Involvement with Their Infants

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Paulson, James F.; Dauber, Sarah E.; Leiferman, Jenn A.

    2011-01-01

    The role of depression in nonresident fathers' involvement with their infant children is poorly understood. A three-factor model of father involvement was evaluated, and its association with parental relationship quality and depressive symptoms in both parents were tested. Data on 569 families from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study were used.…

  16. 49 CFR 569.7 - Requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 6 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Requirements. 569.7 Section 569.7 Transportation..., DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REGROOVED TIRES § 569.7 Requirements. (a) Regrooved tires. (1) Except as... requirements: (i) The tire being regrooved shall be a regroovable tire; (ii) After regrooving, cord material...

  17. 49 CFR 569.7 - Requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 6 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Requirements. 569.7 Section 569.7 Transportation..., DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REGROOVED TIRES § 569.7 Requirements. (a) Regrooved tires. (1) Except as... requirements: (i) The tire being regrooved shall be a regroovable tire; (ii) After regrooving, cord material...

  18. 49 CFR 569.7 - Requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 6 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Requirements. 569.7 Section 569.7 Transportation..., DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REGROOVED TIRES § 569.7 Requirements. (a) Regrooved tires. (1) Except as... requirements: (i) The tire being regrooved shall be a regroovable tire; (ii) After regrooving, cord material...

  19. 7 CFR 51.569 - Well formed.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Well formed. 51.569 Section 51.569 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... Standards for Celery Definitions § 51.569 Well formed. Well formed means that the branches are fairly...

  20. 7 CFR 51.569 - Well formed.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Well formed. 51.569 Section 51.569 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... Standards for Celery Definitions § 51.569 Well formed. Well formed means that the branches are fairly...

  1. 7 CFR 51.569 - Well formed.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Well formed. 51.569 Section 51.569 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing..., CERTIFICATION, AND STANDARDS) United States Standards for Celery Definitions § 51.569 Well formed. Well formed...

  2. 7 CFR 51.569 - Well formed.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Well formed. 51.569 Section 51.569 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing... Standards for Celery Definitions § 51.569 Well formed. Well formed means that the branches are fairly...

  3. 7 CFR 51.569 - Well formed.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 2 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Well formed. 51.569 Section 51.569 Agriculture Regulations of the Department of Agriculture AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing..., CERTIFICATION, AND STANDARDS) United States Standards for Celery Definitions § 51.569 Well formed. Well formed...

  4. 46 CFR 5.69 - Evidence of criminal liability.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... INVESTIGATION REGULATIONS-PERSONNEL ACTION Statement of Policy and Interpretation § 5.69 Evidence of criminal liability. Evidence of criminal liability discovered during an investigation or hearing conducted pursuant... 46 Shipping 1 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Evidence of criminal liability. 5.69 Section 5.69...

  5. 46 CFR 169.569 - Fire axes.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... 46 Shipping 7 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Fire axes. 169.569 Section 169.569 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) NAUTICAL SCHOOLS SAILING SCHOOL VESSELS Lifesaving and Firefighting Equipment Firefighting Equipment § 169.569 Fire axes. (a) Each vessel must carry at least the...

  6. 49 CFR 569.9 - Labeling of regroovable tires.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... 49 Transportation 6 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Labeling of regroovable tires. 569.9 Section 569.9... ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REGROOVED TIRES § 569.9 Labeling of regroovable tires. (a) Regroovable tires. After August 30, 1969, each tire designed and constructed for regrooving shall be labeled...

  7. 10 CFR 4.561-4.569 - [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 10 Energy 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false [Reserved] 4.561-4.569 Section 4.561-4.569 Energy NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION NONDISCRIMINATION IN FEDERALLY ASSISTED PROGRAMS OR ACTIVITIES RECEIVING FEDERAL... Programs or Activities Conducted by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission §§ 4.561-4.569 [Reserved] ...

  8. 7 CFR 56.9 - OMB control number.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 7 Agriculture 3 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false OMB control number. 56.9 Section 56.9 Agriculture... EGGS Grading of Shell Eggs General § 56.9 OMB control number. (a) Purpose. The collecting of... assigned OMB control number 0581-0128. (b) Display. Sections Where Information Collection Requirements Are...

  9. Microbiological and chemical profiles of elephant grass inoculated with and without Lactobacillus plantarum and Pediococcus acidilactici.

    PubMed

    Shah, Assar Ali; Xianjun, Yuan; Zhihao, Dong; Junfeng, Li; Sao, Tao

    2018-03-01

    The study was conducted to evaluate the microbiological and chemical profiles of elephant grass inoculated with and without different wild strains of lactic acid bacteria. Silage was prepared of four treatments and one control with three replicates as control (EKC, adding 2 ml/kg sterilizing water), Lactobacillus plantarum (USA commercial bacteria) (EKP), Lactobacillus plantarum (EKA), Pediococcus acidilactici (EKB), and Pediococcus acidilactici (SKD) isolated from King grass. Silage were prepared using polyethylene terephthalate bottles, and incubated at room temperature for different ensiling days. The pH and acetic acid (AA) were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced and lactic acid (LA), butyric acid (BA), and ethanol were significantly increased (P < 0.05) at 3, 5, 7, and 14 days in treatment groups as compared to control. Water-soluble carbohydrate (WSC) and NH 3 -N concentration was not affected at days 3, 5, and 7, but significantly (P < 0.05) reduced at 14 days in treatment groups as compared to control. The LA, BA, and ethanol were significantly (P < 0.05) increased and AA, WSC NH 3 -N, and yeast were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased at 30 days of ensiling in treatment groups as compared to control. It is recommended that the inoculation of LAB could improve the fermentation quality of elephant grass silage and further effort is needed to evaluate these effects on silage produced on farm scale and on animal production performance.

  10. 12 CFR 569.4 - Proxy soliciting material.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Proxy soliciting material. 569.4 Section 569.4 Banks and Banking OFFICE OF THRIFT SUPERVISION, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY PROXIES § 569.4 Proxy soliciting material. No solicitation of a proxy shall be made by means of any statement, form of proxy...

  11. 12 CFR 569.3 - Holders of proxies.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Holders of proxies. 569.3 Section 569.3 Banks and Banking OFFICE OF THRIFT SUPERVISION, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY PROXIES § 569.3 Holders of proxies. No proxy of a mutual savings association with a term greater than eleven months or solicited at...

  12. 12 CFR 569.1 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Definitions. 569.1 Section 569.1 Banks and Banking OFFICE OF THRIFT SUPERVISION, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY PROXIES § 569.1 Definitions. As used in this part: (a) Security holder. The term security holder means any person having the right to vote in...

  13. 12 CFR 569.2 - Form of proxies.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 12 Banks and Banking 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Form of proxies. 569.2 Section 569.2 Banks and Banking OFFICE OF THRIFT SUPERVISION, DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY PROXIES § 569.2 Form of proxies. Every form of proxy shall conform to the following requirements: (a) The proxy shall be revocable at will by...

  14. A multicenter clinicomycological study evaluating the spectrum of adult tinea capitis in Egypt.

    PubMed

    El-Khalawany, Mohamed; Shaaban, Dalia; Hassan, Hatem; Abdalsalam, Fatma; Eassa, Bayoumi; Abdel Kader, Aida; Shaheen, Ibrahim

    2013-12-01

    Tinea capitis (TC) is a common fungal infection in children but is less frequently encountered in adults. This study evaluates the clinical characteristics and mycological studies of adult TC among the Egyptian population. A multicenter study included patients diagnosed with TC from 2002 to 2012. The study included 58 patients with a predominance of females (84.5%). The average age was 43.2 years and the mean duration of lesions was 7.1 ± 2.41 months. A history of close contact with animals was reported in 17.2% and Hepatitis C virus infection was recorded in 34.4%. Clinically, scaly scalp (37.9%), alopecia (22.4%), and pyoderma-like lesions (13.8%) were the most common presentations. The parietal (27.6%) and temporal (25.8%) regions were the most affected areas. KOH mounting showed endothrix spores in 56.9%, ectothrix spores in 34.5%, and favic chaplets (hyphae) in 8.6%. Fungal culture showed Trichophyton violaceum in 56.9%, Microsporum audouinii in 19%, Microsporum canis in 15.5%, and Trichophyton schoenleini in 8.6%. Trichophyton violaceum is the most common cause of adult TC among Egyptians. Increased awareness of variable clinical forms of TC will help in identifying more cases, especially those with HCV infection and close contact with animals.

  15. 14 CFR 1251.561-1251.569 - [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 5 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false [Reserved] 1251.561-1251.569 Section 1251.561-1251.569 Aeronautics and Space NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION NONDISCRIMINATION ON BASIS OF HANDICAP Enforcement of Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap in Programs or Activities...

  16. 14 CFR 1251.561-1251.569 - [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 5 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false [Reserved] 1251.561-1251.569 Section 1251.561-1251.569 Aeronautics and Space NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION NONDISCRIMINATION ON BASIS OF HANDICAP Enforcement of Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap in Programs or Activities...

  17. 14 CFR 1251.561-1251.569 - [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 5 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false [Reserved] 1251.561-1251.569 Section 1251.561-1251.569 Aeronautics and Space NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION NONDISCRIMINATION ON BASIS OF HANDICAP Enforcement of Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap in Programs or Activities...

  18. 14 CFR 1251.561-1251.569 - [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 5 2011-01-01 2010-01-01 true [Reserved] 1251.561-1251.569 Section 1251.561-1251.569 Aeronautics and Space NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION NONDISCRIMINATION ON BASIS OF HANDICAP Enforcement of Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap in Programs or Activities...

  19. 33 CFR 117.569 - Pocomoke River.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Pocomoke River. 117.569 Section... DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Maryland § 117.569 Pocomoke River. (a) The Conrail railroad bridge, mile 15.2, at Pocomoke City, shall open on signal, except between November 1 and March 31...

  20. 9 CFR 56.9 - Claims not allowed.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... 9 Animals and Animal Products 1 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Claims not allowed. 56.9 Section 56.9 Animals and Animal Products ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE COOPERATIVE CONTROL AND ERADICATION OF LIVESTOCK OR POULTRY DISEASES CONTROL OF H5/H7 LOW PATHOGENIC AVIAN...

  1. 9 CFR 56.9 - Claims not allowed.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... 9 Animals and Animal Products 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Claims not allowed. 56.9 Section 56.9 Animals and Animal Products ANIMAL AND PLANT HEALTH INSPECTION SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE COOPERATIVE CONTROL AND ERADICATION OF LIVESTOCK OR POULTRY DISEASES CONTROL OF H5/H7 LOW PATHOGENIC AVIAN...

  2. 14 CFR §§ 1251.561-1251.569 - [Reserved

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... 14 Aeronautics and Space 5 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false [Reserved] §§ 1251.561-1251.569 Section §§ 1251.561-1251.569 Aeronautics and Space NATIONAL AERONAUTICS AND SPACE ADMINISTRATION NONDISCRIMINATION ON BASIS OF HANDICAP Enforcement of Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Handicap in Programs or...

  3. 42 CFR 493.569 - Consequences of a finding of noncompliance as a result of a validation inspection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... result of a validation inspection. 493.569 Section 493.569 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID... validation inspection. (a) Laboratory with a certificate of accreditation. If a validation inspection results... validation inspection results in a finding that a CLIA-exempt laboratory is out of compliance with one or...

  4. 42 CFR 493.569 - Consequences of a finding of noncompliance as a result of a validation inspection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... result of a validation inspection. 493.569 Section 493.569 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID... validation inspection. (a) Laboratory with a certificate of accreditation. If a validation inspection results... validation inspection results in a finding that a CLIA-exempt laboratory is out of compliance with one or...

  5. 42 CFR 493.569 - Consequences of a finding of noncompliance as a result of a validation inspection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... result of a validation inspection. 493.569 Section 493.569 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID... validation inspection. (a) Laboratory with a certificate of accreditation. If a validation inspection results... validation inspection results in a finding that a CLIA-exempt laboratory is out of compliance with one or...

  6. 42 CFR 493.569 - Consequences of a finding of noncompliance as a result of a validation inspection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... result of a validation inspection. 493.569 Section 493.569 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID... validation inspection. (a) Laboratory with a certificate of accreditation. If a validation inspection results... validation inspection results in a finding that a CLIA-exempt laboratory is out of compliance with one or...

  7. 42 CFR 493.569 - Consequences of a finding of noncompliance as a result of a validation inspection.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... result of a validation inspection. 493.569 Section 493.569 Public Health CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID... validation inspection. (a) Laboratory with a certificate of accreditation. If a validation inspection results... validation inspection results in a finding that a CLIA-exempt laboratory is out of compliance with one or...

  8. 25 CFR 162.569 - Will BIA require an appeal bond for an appeal of a decision on a WSR lease document?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... 25 Indians 1 2014-04-01 2014-04-01 false Will BIA require an appeal bond for an appeal of a decision on a WSR lease document? 162.569 Section 162.569 Indians BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR LAND AND WATER LEASES AND PERMITS Wind and Solar Resource Leases Wsr Lease Approval § 162...

  9. 25 CFR 162.569 - Will BIA require an appeal bond for an appeal of a decision on a WSR lease document?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... 25 Indians 1 2013-04-01 2013-04-01 false Will BIA require an appeal bond for an appeal of a decision on a WSR lease document? 162.569 Section 162.569 Indians BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR LAND AND WATER LEASES AND PERMITS Wind and Solar Resource Leases Wsr Lease Approval § 162...

  10. Pronominal Reference Skills of Second and Fourth Grade Children with Language Impairment

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Finestack, Lizbeth H.; Fey, Marc E.; Catts, Hugh W.

    2006-01-01

    Pronominal referencing was evaluated in a sample of 569 children comprising four diagnostic subgroups: typical language (TL), specific language impairment (SLI), nonspecific language impairment (NLI), and typical language with low nonverbal IQ (LNIQ). Participants generated oral narratives in second grade and again in fourth grade. The narratives…

  11. Ballistic Transport: After the Cassini Grand Finale, is there a Final Consensus on Ring Origin and Age?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Estrada, P. R.; Durisen, R. H.; Cuzzi, J. N.

    2017-12-01

    As the Cassini mission comes to its much anticipated end, somewhat befittingly to be immortalized and enshrined for all time within the gaseous confines of a planet named for the Greek god of time (Kronos), we find the time appropriate to return to the subject of ring age and origin. During Cassini's remarkable tenure, important measurements have been obtained that can help to elucidate and perhaps settle the debate once and for all on whether the rings are young or old. At the forefront lie the results of the Cassini Dust Analyzer (CDA) experiment which indicate that the range of the micrometeoroid flux at infinity for Saturn are comparable to the nominal value of the meteoroid flux value currently adopted for use in ballistic transport (BT) applications and models (Estrada et al., 2015, 2017). Moreover, the source of the micrometeoroid flux has been localized to the Edgeworth-Kuiper Belt (EKB) and is not cometary in origin as previously assumed (Altobelli et al., 2015). A major consequence of these measurements is that the EKB flux is much more gravitationally focused increasing the impact flux on the rings by a factor of ˜25 relative to cometary. This implies that the process of micrometeoroid bombardment and BT is likely even more influential in the rings' structural and compositional evolution over time. This measurement taken together with recent analysis of the bulk mass fraction of non-icy constituents (Zhang et al., 2017a,b) using Cassini radiometry data argue strongly for young rings. Another observation that will help to provide a constraint (though not absolute) is the pending measurement of the (B) ring mass. A high mass estimate as argued by some does not necessarily mean old rings, whereas a low mass ring would certainly imply as much. There are several factors that can offer insight on to the age of the rings from BT modeling, such as saturation of the ramp(s), color differences across the B-C (A-CD) boundaries, color differences across plateaus, in addition to the (hopefully) soon to be known mass of the B ring vis-à-vis the observed non-icy constituent mass fractions, which we will be discussed.

  12. 49 CFR 569.1 - Purpose and scope.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REGROOVED TIRES § 569.1 Purpose and scope. This part sets forth the conditions under which regrooved and regroovable tires manufactured or regrooved after the effective date of...

  13. 7 CFR 56.9 - OMB control number.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... AGRICULTURAL MARKETING ACT OF 1946 AND THE EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION ACT (CONTINUED) VOLUNTARY GRADING OF SHELL EGGS Grading of Shell Eggs General § 56.9 OMB control number. (a) Purpose. The collecting of...

  14. 49 CFR 569.3 - Definitions.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ..., DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REGROOVED TIRES § 569.3 Definitions. (a) Statutory definitions. All terms used... regard to the applicability of a standard in which a definition is contained. (c) Regroovable tire means a tire, either original tread or retread, designed and constructed with sufficient tread material to...

  15. 49 CFR 569.7 - Requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ..., DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REGROOVED TIRES § 569.7 Requirements. (a) Regrooved tires. (1) Except as... for introduction into interstate commerce regrooved tires produced by removing rubber from the surface of a worn tire tread to generate a new tread pattern. Any person who regrooves tires and leases them...

  16. 49 CFR 569.5 - Applicability.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ..., DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION REGROOVED TIRES § 569.5 Applicability. (a) General. Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, this part applies to all motor vehicle regrooved or regroovable tires... regrooved or regroovable tires intended solely for export and so labeled or tagged. [34 FR 1150, Jan. 24...

  17. MAKING LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY DATA AVAILABLE

    EPA Science Inventory

    Making Life Cycle Inventory Data Available

    Mary Ann Curran
    US EPA, National Risk Management Research Laboratory
    Address: 26 W. Martin Luther King Drive (MS-466)
    Cincinnati, OH 45268 USA
    Phone: 513-569-7782
    Fax: 513-569-7111
    E-Mail: curran.maryann@...

  18. SELECTIVE HYDROGENATION OF ANHYDRIDES TO LACTONES UNDER SUPERCRITICAL CARBON DIOXIDE MEDIUM

    EPA Science Inventory

    Selective Hydrogenation of Anhydrides to Lactones Under Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Medium

    Endalkachew Sahle-Demessie Unnikrishnan R Pillai
    U.S. EPA , 26 W. Martin Luther King Dr. Cincinnati, OH 45268 Phone: 513-569-7739
    Fax: 513-569-7677
    Abstract:
    Hydrogenat...

  19. 49 CFR 195.569 - Do I have to examine exposed portions of buried pipelines?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-10-01

    ... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Corrosion Control § 195.569 Do I have to examine... exposed, you must examine the exposed portion for evidence of external corrosion if the pipe is bare, or if the coating is deteriorated. If you find external corrosion requiring corrective action under...

  20. 49 CFR 195.569 - Do I have to examine exposed portions of buried pipelines?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Corrosion Control § 195.569 Do I have to examine... exposed, you must examine the exposed portion for evidence of external corrosion if the pipe is bare, or if the coating is deteriorated. If you find external corrosion requiring corrective action under...

  1. 49 CFR 195.569 - Do I have to examine exposed portions of buried pipelines?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-10-01

    ... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Corrosion Control § 195.569 Do I have to examine... exposed, you must examine the exposed portion for evidence of external corrosion if the pipe is bare, or if the coating is deteriorated. If you find external corrosion requiring corrective action under...

  2. 49 CFR 195.569 - Do I have to examine exposed portions of buried pipelines?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-10-01

    ... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Corrosion Control § 195.569 Do I have to examine... exposed, you must examine the exposed portion for evidence of external corrosion if the pipe is bare, or if the coating is deteriorated. If you find external corrosion requiring corrective action under...

  3. 49 CFR 195.569 - Do I have to examine exposed portions of buried pipelines?

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... SAFETY TRANSPORTATION OF HAZARDOUS LIQUIDS BY PIPELINE Corrosion Control § 195.569 Do I have to examine... exposed, you must examine the exposed portion for evidence of external corrosion if the pipe is bare, or if the coating is deteriorated. If you find external corrosion requiring corrective action under...

  4. 76 FR 52662 - Notice of Public Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-08-23

    ... entities; State, Local or Tribal Governments; Non-profit entities. Number of Respondents: 3,569,028 respondents; 3,569,028 responses. Estimated Time per Response: .034-20 hours. Frequency of Response.... Nature and Extent of confidentiality: The Commission will treat submissions pursuant to 47 CFR 11.61(a)(3...

  5. Corrective Action Decision Document/Closure Report for Corrective Action Unit 569: Area 3 Yucca Flat Atmospheric Test Sites Nevada National Security Site, Nevada with ROTC 1, Revision 0

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

    Sloop, Christy

    2013-04-01

    This Corrective Action Decision Document/Closure Report presents information supporting the closure of Corrective Action Unit (CAU) 569: Area 3 Yucca Flat Atmospheric Test Sites, Nevada National Security Site, Nevada. CAU 569 comprises the following nine corrective action sites (CASs): • 03-23-09, T-3 Contamination Area • 03-23-10, T-3A Contamination Area • 03-23-11, T-3B Contamination Area • 03-23-12, T-3S Contamination Area • 03-23-13, T-3T Contamination Area • 03-23-14, T-3V Contamination Area • 03-23-15, S-3G Contamination Area • 03-23-16, S-3H Contamination Area • 03-23-21, Pike Contamination Area The purpose of this Corrective Action Decision Document/Closure Report is to provide justification and documentation supportingmore » the recommendation that no further corrective action is needed for CAU 569 based on the implementation of the corrective actions listed in Table ES-2.« less

  6. Breast sentinel lymph node navigation with three-dimensional computed tomography-lymphography: a 12-year study.

    PubMed

    Yamamoto, Shigeru; Suga, Kazuyoshi; Maeda, Kazunari; Maeda, Noriko; Yoshimura, Kiyoshi; Oka, Masaaki

    2016-05-01

    To evaluate the utility of three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT)-lymphography (LG) breast sentinel lymph node navigation in our institute. Between 2002 and 2013, we preoperatively identified sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) in 576 clinically node-negative breast cancer patients with T1 and T2 breast cancer using 3D CT-LG method. SLN biopsy (SLNB) was performed in 557 of 576 patients using both the images of 3D CT-LG for guidance and the blue dye method. Using 3D CT-LG, SLNs were visualized in 569 (99%) of 576 patients. Of 569 patients, both lymphatic draining ducts and SLNs from the peritumoral and periareolar areas were visualized in 549 (96%) patients. Only SLNs without lymphatic draining ducts were visualized in 20 patients. Drainage lymphatic pathways visualized with 3D CT-LG (549 cases) were classified into four patterns: single route/single SLN (355 cases, 65%), multiple routes/single SLN (59 cases, 11%) single route/multiple SLNs (62 cases, 11%) and multiple routes/multiple SLNs (73 cases, 13%). SLNs were detected in 556 (99.8%) of 557 patients during SLNB. CT-LG is useful for preoperative visualization of SLNs and breast lymphatic draining routes. This preoperative method should contribute greatly to the easy detection of SLNs during SLNB.

  7. 78 FR 72791 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-12-04

    ... operators Inspection, test, and 10 work-hours x $0 $850 260 $221,000. corrective actions $85 per hour... (new action).... 185 work-hours $28,771........ $44,496........ 569 $25,318,224. x $85 per hour = $15,725. Revise maintenance program 1 work-hour x $0 $85 569 $48,365. (new action). $85 per hour = $85...

  8. 40 CFR 721.10420 - Fluoropolymers (generic) (P-11-567, P-11-568, and P-11-569).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 31 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Fluoropolymers (generic) (P-11-567, P-11-568, and P-11-569). 721.10420 Section 721.10420 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10420 Fluoropolymers (generic) (P-11-567, P-11-568...

  9. 40 CFR 721.10420 - Fluoropolymers (generic) (P-11-567, P-11-568, and P-11-569).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Fluoropolymers (generic) (P-11-567, P-11-568, and P-11-569). 721.10420 Section 721.10420 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10420 Fluoropolymers (generic) (P-11-567, P-11-568...

  10. 40 CFR 721.10420 - Fluoropolymers (generic) (P-11-567, P-11-568, and P-11-569).

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... 40 Protection of Environment 32 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Fluoropolymers (generic) (P-11-567, P-11-568, and P-11-569). 721.10420 Section 721.10420 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION... New Uses for Specific Chemical Substances § 721.10420 Fluoropolymers (generic) (P-11-567, P-11-568...

  11. New approach to resolve the humidity problem in VOC determination in outdoor air samples using solid adsorbent tubes followed by TD-GC-MS.

    PubMed

    Maceira, Alba; Vallecillos, Laura; Borrull, Francesc; Marcé, Rosa Maria

    2017-12-01

    This study describes the humidity effect in the sampling process by adsorbent tubes followed by thermal desorption and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TD-GC-MS) for the determination of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in air samples and evaluates possible solutions to this problem. Two multi-sorbent bed tubes, Tenax TA/Carbograph 1TD and Carbotrap B/Carbopack X/Carboxen 569, were tested in order to evaluate their behaviour in the presence of environmental humidity. Humidity problems were demonstrated with carbon-based tubes, while Tenax-based tubes did not display any influence. Silica gel, a molecular sieve and CaCl 2 were tried out as materials for drying tube to remove air humidity, placed prior to the sampling tube to prevent water from entering. The pre-tubes filled with 0.5g of CaCl 2 showed the best results with respect to their blanks, the analytes recoveries and their ability to remove ambient humidity. To avoid the possible agglomeration of CaCl 2 during the sampling process in high relative humidity atmospheres, 0.1g of diatomaceous earth were mixed with the desiccant agent. The applicability of the CaCl 2 pre-tube as drying agent prior to Carbotrap B/Carbopack X/Carboxen 569 tubes was tested in urban and industrial locations with samplings of air at high relative humidity. In addition, the results were compared with those obtained using Tenax TA/Carbograph 1TD tubes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  12. WORKSHOP ON THE DESIGN AND OPERATION OF ADSORPTIVE MEDIA PROCESSES FOR THE REMOVAL OF ARSENIC FROM DRINKING WATER - CD OF PPT PRESENTATIONS

    EPA Science Inventory

    Presentation material from the Workshop on the Design and Operation of the Adsorptive Media Process for the Removal of Arsenic from Drinking Water. To request a copy of this CD contact Tom Sorg, USEPA, email: sorg.thomas@epa.gov Phone: 513 569-7370 or Fax: 513 569-7172.

  13. Thyroid autoimmunity and function among Ugandan children and adolescents with type-1 diabetes mellitus.

    PubMed

    Muhame, Rugambwa Michael; Mworozi, Edison Arwanire; McAssey, Karen; Lubega, Irene

    2014-01-01

    Up to 30% of type-1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) patients have co-existent thyroid autoimmunity with up to 50% of them having associated thyroid dysfunction. Routine screening for thyroid autoimmunity and dysfunction is recommended in all T1DM patients. However, this was not currently practiced in Ugandan paediatric diabetes clinics. There was also paucity of data regarding thyroid autoimmunity and dysfunction in African children and adolescents with diabetes mellitus. The objective of this study was to quantify the magnitude of thyroid autoimmunity and dysfunction in Ugandan children with TIDM. This was a cross sectional descriptive study to determine the prevalence of thyroid autoantibodies and describe thyroid function among children and adolescents aged 1-19 years with diabetes mellitus attending the paediatric diabetes clinic at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda. Following enrollment, we obtained details of clinical history and performed physical examination. Blood (plasma) was assayed to determine levels of antibodies to thyroid peroxidase (antiTPO), free thyroxine (FT4) and thyrotropin (TSH). The prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity was 7.3% (5/69). All antiTPO positive subjects were post pubertal, aged between 13-17 years with females comprising 3/5 of the antiTPO positive subjects. All study subjects were clinically euthyroid; however, 7.3% (5/69) of the study subjects had subclinical hypothyroidism. These data strengthen the argument for routine screening of all diabetic children and adolescents for thyroid autoimmunity (particularly anti-TPO) as recommended by international guidelines. We also recommend evaluation of thyroid function in diabetic children and adolescents to minimize the risk of undiagnosed thyroid dysfunction.

  14. [FORMATION OF BILIODIGESTIVE AND INTERINTESTINAL ANASTOMOSES IN ENVIRONMENT OF BILIARY PERITONITIS, USING A HIGH FREQUENCY ELECTRIC WELDING IN EXPERIMENT].

    PubMed

    Nychytaylo, M Yu; Furmanov, Yu O; Gutsulyak, A I; Savytska, I M; Lopatkina, K G; Zagriychuk, M S; Goman, A V

    2016-01-01

    In experiment on 20 rabbits a diffuse biliary peritonitis was simulated, using intraabdominal injection of a laboratory culture of E. coli suspension and a medicinal bile. In 24 h on background of peritonitis on excluded loop of a small bowel in accordance to method of Roux, using a high frequency electric welding with the help of apparatus Patonmed EKB3-300 a one-layered everting cholecystoenteroanastomosis and enteroenteroanastomosis was formated. In a 6 mo postoperatively a connection line was not revealed from outside or from inside, the signs of stenosis were absent. In environment of a diffuse biliary peritonitis a welding technologies have permitted to form a hermetic and competent biliodigestive and interintestinal anastomoses, the processes of a welding suture regeneration postoperatively have a typical course. Using a high frequency-electric welding it is possible to perform a one-staged reconstructive interventions in environment of a pronounced inflammation of tissues due to subsequent precise conjunction of mucosal sheets of connected organs, preventing the anastomotic stricture formation.

  15. The Discovery of a Companion to the Very Cool Dwarf Gliese 569B with the Keck Adaptive Optics Facility.

    PubMed

    Martín; Koresko; Kulkarni; Lane; Wizinowich

    2000-01-20

    We report observations obtained with the Keck adaptive optics facility of the nearby (d=9.8 pc) binary Gl 569. The system was known to be composed of a cool primary (dM2) and a very cool secondary (dM8.5) with a separation of 5&arcsec; (49 AU). We have found that Gl 569B is itself double with a separation of only 0&farcs;101+/-0&farcs;002 (1 AU). This detection demonstrates the superb spatial resolution that can be achieved with adaptive optics at Keck. The difference in brightness between Gl 569B and the companion is approximately 0.5 mag in the J, H, and K&arcmin; bands. Thus, both objects have similarly red colors and very likely constitute a very low mass binary system. For reasonable assumptions about the age (0.12-1.0 Gyr) and total mass of the system (0.09-0.15 M middle dot in circle), we estimate that the orbital period is approximately 3 yr. Follow-up observations will allow us to obtain an astrometric orbit solution and will yield direct dynamical masses that can constrain evolutionary models of very low mass stars and brown dwarfs.

  16. The relationship between the structures of four beta-lactamases obtained from Bacillus cereus.

    PubMed

    Cid, H; Carrillo, O; Bunster, M; Martínez, J; Vargas, V

    1988-06-01

    Bacillus cereus has proved to be one of the most interesting microorganisms in the study of beta-lactamases. It secrets these enzymes very efficiently and, frequently, in multiple forms. Three different forms are produced by strain 569/H; mutant 5/B of the same microorganism is constitutive for the secretion of beta-lactamases I and II. The present study, based on secondary structure prediction by two independent methods, states the relationship among the structures of beta-lactamases I, II and III produced by B. cereus 569/H and beta-lactamase I from the strain 5/B of this microorganism. A strong similarity is also established for the enzyme type III of B. cereus and the enzyme type I produced by B. licheniformis which could have an evolutionary explanation. A structural analysis of the leader peptide regions of these enzymes by the method of Mohana and Argos is also reported.

  17. A possible brown dwarf companion to Gliese 569

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Forrest, W. J.; Shure, Mark; Skrutskie, M. F.

    1988-01-01

    A faint cool companion to Gliese 569, discovered during an IR imaging survey of nearby stars, may be the lowest-mass stellar object yet found. The companion is somewhat cooler in its 1.65-3.75-micron energy distribution than the coolest known main-sequence stars, indicating a low mass. Despite its lower temperature, it is more luminous than similar extremely low-mass stars, suggesting that it is either a young low-mass star evolving toward the main sequence or a cooling substellar brown dwarf. The primary star has emission lines and a low space velocity and exhibits flaring, all of which imply youth for this system. Observations of Gliese 569 and its companion over a period of 2 yr confirm the common proper motion expected of a true binary. The 5-arcsec apparent separation (50 AU) implies an orbital period of roughly 500 yr, which will permit an eventual direct determination of the mass of the companion.

  18. Casualty Assistance: DOD and the Coast Guard Need to Develop Policies and Outreach Goals and Metrics for Program Supporting Servicemembers Survivors

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2016-06-01

    Government Accountability Office United States Government Accountability Office Highlights of GAO-16-569, a report to the Committee on Armed...active duty, officials told us that Military OneSource provides grief counseling, tax assistance (such as Page 9 GAO-16-569 Gold Star...Advocates assistance with filing the deceased servicemember’s final tax return), and assistance with obtaining benefits. There are also organizations

  19. Cysteine Substitution of Transmembrane Domain Amino Acids Alters the Ethanol Inhibition of GluN1/GluN2A N-Methyl-d-Aspartate Receptors

    PubMed Central

    Xu, Minfu; Smothers, C. Thetford

    2015-01-01

    N-Methyl-d-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are inhibited by behaviorally relevant concentrations of ethanol, and residues within transmembrane (TM) domains of NMDARs, including TM3 GluN1 phenylalanine 639 (F639), regulate this sensitivity. In the present study, we used cysteine (C) mutagenesis to determine whether there are additional residues within nearby TM domains that regulate ethanol inhibition on NMDARs. GluN1(F639C)/GluN2A receptors were less inhibited by ethanol than wild-type receptors, and inhibition was restored to wild-type levels following treatment with ethanol-like methanethiosulfonate reagents. Molecular modeling identified six residues in the GluN1 TM1 domain (valine V566; serine S569) and the GluN2A TM4 domain (methionine, M817; V820, F821, and leucine, L824) that were in close vicinity to the TM3 F639 residue, and these were individually mutated to cysteine and tested for ethanol inhibition and receptor function. The F639C-induced decrease in ethanol inhibition was blunted by coexpression of GluN1 TM1 mutants V566C and S569C, and statistically significant interactions were observed for ethanol inhibition among V566C, F639C, and GluN2A TM4 mutants V820C and F821C and S569C, F639C, and GluN2A TM4 mutants F821C and L824C. Ethanol inhibition was also reduced when either GluN1 TM1 mutant V566C or S569C was combined with GluN2A V820C, suggesting a novel TM1:TM4 intrasubunit site of action for ethanol. Cysteines substituted at TM3 and TM4 sites previously suggested to interact with ethanol had less dramatic effects on ethanol inhibition. Overall, the results from these studies suggest that interactions among TM1, TM3, and TM4 amino acids in NMDARs are important determinants of ethanol action at these receptors. PMID:25635140

  20. [Mapping of seedlessness gene in grapes using SCAR markers].

    PubMed

    Yang, Ke-Qiang; Wang, Yue-Jin; Zhang, Jin-Jin; Wang, Xi-Ping; W A N, Yi-Zhen; Zhang, Jian-Xia

    2005-03-01

    Nine primers (including UBC-269 and GSLP1) were designed and synthesized based on DNA sequences of UBC-269(484) and GSLP1(569). The template DNA from Red Globe (seeded paternal parent) and Flame Seedless (seedless maternal parent) were screened using these primers. For Flame Seedless,GSLP1 yielded specific marker GSLP1(569); No. 39970524-5 primer yielded specific marker 39970524-5-564; and No. 6 primer yielded specific marker 39970524-6-1538 and 39970524-6-1200. GSLP1, No. 39970524-5, and No. 39970524-6 primers were used specifically to screen template DNA from the experimental plant materials. The results showed that the specific markers GSLP1(569), 39970524-5-564,39970524-6-1538 and 39970524-6-1200 were cosegregating with the major seedlessness gene. All these specific loci were also present in Thompson Seedless which was the initial donor of the seedlessness gene. It suggests that these SCAR markers are linked to a major grape seedlessness gene S. Markers order and map distance were estimated using the software 'QTXb17'. This showed that GSLP1(569), 39970524-5-564,39970524-6-1538 and 39970524-6-1200 were tightly linked to gene S. When P = 0.01,confidence limits for map distance ranged from 0.2 to 9.9; standard errors of map distance were from 0.6 to 1.9; LOD for linkage were from 32.7 to 46.4. These markers and the gene S were found to be in the same group. The markers were located on either side of gene S, covering 12.3 cM of the grape genome. The genetic distances between gene S and 39970524-5-564, GSLP1(569), 39970524-6-1538 and 39970524-6-1200 were 0.6 cM, 1.2 cM, 4.9 cM and 11.1 cM respectively.

  1. Iowa Workforce Training Study. Executive Summary.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Quinley, John

    A study examined the perceived training and retraining needs of Iowa business/organizations and employer views regarding how the continuing education divisions of Iowa's community colleges can best meet those needs. Of the 1,069 Iowa employers contacted, 608 (56.9%) responded. According to the respondents, Iowa's system of community college…

  2. Web-based symptom screening in cystic fibrosis patients: A feasibility study.

    PubMed

    Balzano, Julie; Fresenius, Ashley; Walker, Patricia; Berdella, Maria; Portenoy, Russell K; Bookbinder, Marilyn; Glajchen, Myra; Plachta, Amy; Langfelder-Schwind, Elinor; Chen, Jack; Dhingra, Lara

    2016-01-01

    Cystic fibrosis (CF) causes high illness burden. Screening may identify patients who could potentially benefit from interventions for symptoms or other sources of distress. We evaluated the feasibility of a web-based system for routine monitoring. Adult CF patients enrolled in a study of palliative care service delivery completed web-based assessments every 30 days on global distress, physical and psychological symptom distress, and the perceived benefits of discussing advance care planning (ACP) with CF clinicians. Feasibility was assessed by the rate of survey completion, survey reminders, and missed surveys during a 9-month rolling enrollment period. Of 74 participants (47.3% women, 94.4% white), 36.7% had comorbid diabetes, and 56.9% had an FEV1% predicted score of 40-69. In total, patients completed 456 (80.6%) of 566 surveys every 30 days over the assessment period. Sixty-five (87.8%) completed 405 (79.7%) of 508 surveys online and 9 (12.2%) completed 51 (88.0%) of 58 surveys using a combination of online, telephone, and mail-based methods. Many surveys were completed without reminders (online: 261 [64.4%] of 405; combined methods: 29 [56.9%] of 51), with 166 (36.4%) surveys requiring 1 or more reminders. Further, 23.0% (17) of patients noted elevated global distress; 20.3% (15) endorsed physical symptom distress, 12.2% (9) had psychological distress, and 58.1% (43) reported that discussing ACP would be beneficial. Repeated web-based screening for symptom distress and ACP preferences is feasible in adult CF patients. Future studies should assess the system's generalizability and staff resources when implementing reminders and non-web methods of completion. Copyright © 2015 European Cystic Fibrosis Society. All rights reserved.

  3. Self-reported and laboratory evaluation of late pregnancy nicotine exposure and drugs of abuse.

    PubMed

    Hall, E S; Wexelblatt, S L; Greenberg, J M

    2016-10-01

    The objective of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of late pregnancy nicotine exposures, including secondhand smoke exposures, and to evaluate the associated risk of exposure to drugs of abuse. The study was a retrospective single-center cohort analysis of more than 18 months. We compared self-reported smoking status from vital birth records with mass spectrometry laboratory results of maternal urine using a chi-square test. Logistic regression estimated adjusted odds for detection of drugs of abuse based on nicotine detection. Compared with 8.6% self-reporting cigarette use, mass spectrometry detected high-level nicotine exposures for 16.5% of 708 women (P<0.001) and an additional 7.5% with low-level exposures. We identified an increased likelihood of exposure to drugs of abuse, presented as adjusted odds ratios, (95% confidence interval (CI), for both low-level (5.69, CI: 2.09 to 15.46) and high-level (13.93, CI: 7.06 to 27.49) nicotine exposures. Improved measurement tactics are critically needed to capture late pregnancy primary and passive nicotine exposures from all potential sources.

  4. Quantization Of Temperature

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    O'Brien, Paul

    2017-01-01

    Max Plank did not quantize temperature. I will show that the Plank temperature violates the Plank scale. Plank stated that the Plank scale was Natures scale and independent of human construct. Also stating that even aliens would derive the same values. He made a huge mistake, because temperature is based on the Kelvin scale, which is man-made just like the meter and kilogram. He did not discover natures scale for the quantization of temperature. His formula is flawed, and his value is incorrect. Plank's calculation is Tp = c2Mp/Kb. The general form of this equation is T = E/Kb Why is this wrong? The temperature for a fixed amount of energy is dependent upon the volume it occupies. Using the correct formula involves specifying the radius of the volume in the form of (RE). This leads to an inequality and a limit that is equivalent to the Bekenstein Bound, but using temperature instead of entropy. Rewriting this equation as a limit defines both the maximum temperature and Boltzmann's constant. This will saturate any space-time boundary with maximum temperature and information density, also the minimum radius and entropy. The general form of the equation then becomes a limit in BH thermodynamics T <= (RE)/(λKb) .

  5. Pirmasens AHP DL, West Germany Limited Surface Observations Climatic Summary (LISOCS). Parts A, C-F.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-09-01

    106145 STATION NABE : PIRMASENS AHP OL PERIOD OF RECORD: 76-85 MONTH: MAR HOURSILSTI: 1200-1400 ___ .......C..L IN’ I Y .... IN .HU.ND.. .REDS *OF...48.1 49.6 50.4 50.7 50.1 50.1 51.2 SI.2 51.3 51.3 51.1 51.1 51.3 51.3 51. GE 4000f 54.6 55.5 sb.b 56.9 56.9 S6.9 57.4 57.4 57.5 57.S 51.5 SY .5 51.5

  6. Influence of the teaching program on the learning in knowledge and practice of osteonecrosis of the jaws produced by antireasorptives in dental students of the Principality of Asturias (Spain)

    PubMed Central

    Escobedo, Matias-Ferrán; García-Consuegra, Luis; Gay, Silvia; Álvarez, Lorena; Olay, Sonsoles; Ascani, Giuliano

    2017-01-01

    Background This study aims to evaluate the influence of changes in the teaching contents on medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw may have on the knowledge and the capacity for practical case resolution about this pathology. Material and Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted through a survey divided into four sections: degree of means of knowledge acquisition, habitual practice and ability to solve clinical cases. The total number of respondents (n = 225) was divided into two groups: Group A (Year 2015-2016) and Group B (Year 2016-2017). The students in Group B received more teaching content on the subject than group A. Results A total of 175 survey responses were collected. The internet was the preferred tool for continuing education in both groups. The best known bisphosphonates (BPs) were Alendronate (Fosamax®: 56.9% Group A, 67.5% Group B) and Zoledronic Acid (Zometa®: 56.9% Group A, 51.8% Group B). A low percentage of students (37.9% Group A, 43.4% Group B) acknowledged the existence of other drugs that could also cause osteonecrosis of the jaws. Regarding the correct resolution of practical cases, the respondents of Group B reached a significantly higher score (5.67) than the score observed in Group A (4.04). Conclusions Training on medication-related osteonecrosis among dental students is susceptible to improvement. Introducing minor changes in the teachings allows this goal to be successfully achieved. Key words:Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ), bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaws (BRONJ), medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ), dental education. PMID:29410755

  7. Presentations at the Tri-Service Cloud Modeling Workshop (2nd), Held at the Naval Surface Weapons Center, White Oak, Maryland, 26-27 June 1984. Volume 1.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-08-01

    produce even the most basic binary cloud data and methodologies needed to support the evaluation programs." In view of this recognized deficiency, the...There was an exchange of information with non - DoD agencies, with presentations made by NASA and NOAA (see pp. 537, 569). A brief report by the steering...on cloud data bases and methodologies for users. To achieve these actions requires explicit support. *See classified supplementary volume. vi CONTENTS

  8. Student Experience of School Science

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Shirazi, Shaista

    2017-01-01

    This paper presents the findings of a two-phase mixed methods research study that explores the link between experiences of school science of post-16 students and their decisions to take up science for their higher studies. In the first phase, students aged 16-17 (n = 569) reflected on the past five years of their school science experience in a…

  9. Demographics and Leadership Philosophy: Exploring Gender Differences.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Korac-Kakabadse, Andrew; Korac-Kakabadse, Nada; Myers, Andrew

    1998-01-01

    A study of 569 men and 145 women managers in Australian public service and 406 men and 108 women managers in the British National Health Services found no significant gender differences in leadership characteristics. Job and organizational tenure and senior management experience had more influence than gender on the formation of leadership…

  10. Correlates of adverse childhood events among adults with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

    PubMed

    Rosenberg, Stanley D; Lu, Weili; Mueser, Kim T; Jankowski, Mary Kay; Cournos, Francine

    2007-02-01

    Multiple studies have found that childhood adversity is related to a range of poor mental health, substance abuse, poor physical health, and poor social functioning outcomes in the general population of adults. However, despite the high rates of childhood adversity in schizophrenia, the clinical correlates of these events have not been systematically evaluated. This study evaluated the relationship between adverse experiences in childhood and functional, clinical, and health outcomes among adults with schizophrenia. The authors surveyed 569 adults with schizophrenia regarding adverse childhood events (including physical abuse, sexual abuse, parental mental illnesses, loss of a parent, parental separation or divorce, witnessing domestic violence, and foster or kinship care). The relationships between cumulative exposure to these events and psychiatric, physical, and functional outcomes were evaluated. Increased exposure to adverse childhood events was strongly related to psychiatric problems (suicidal thinking, hospitalizations, distress, and posttraumatic stress disorder), substance abuse, physical health problems (HIV infection), medical service utilization (physician visits), and poor social functioning (homelessness or criminal justice involvement). The findings extend the results of research in the general population by suggesting that childhood adversity contributes to worse mental health, substance abuse, worse physical health, and poor functional outcomes in schizophrenia.

  11. Use of levetiracetam in a population of patients aged 65 years and older: a subset analysis of the KEEPER trial.

    PubMed

    Ferrendelli, J A; French, J; Leppik, I; Morrell, M J; Herbeuval, A; Han, J; Magnus, L

    2003-12-01

    Levetiracetam (Keppra) was evaluated in a subset of patients aged >/=65 years (n=78) enrolled in a large (n=1030) open-label, phase IV trial (the KEEPER trial). A 4-week dose adjustment was followed by a 12-week evaluation period. An overall median reduction in partial seizures of 80.1% (n=65) was observed. Overall, 76.9% of patients were >/=50% responders, 56.9% were >/=75% responders, and 40.0% were 100% responders. Levetiracetam was well tolerated, with 42.3% of patients reporting one or more adverse events. A total of 15 patients (19.2%) experienced an adverse event that led to discontinuation. Somnolence (n=13,16.7%) and dizziness (n=7,9.0%) were the most commonly reported adverse events. Despite the limitations of the open-label study design, these data provide information regarding the use of levetiracetam as add-on therapy for the treatment of partial-onset seizures in patients >/=65 years of age, including those requiring concomitant medications.

  12. High School Students' Gender Role Perceptions Regarding Various Professions

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Atli, Abdullah

    2017-01-01

    This survey study aims to determine the gender role perceptions of high school students regarding several professions. 724 female (56.9%) and 548 male (43.1%) formed the sample of a total of 1272 high school students. The "Gender Role Perceptions regarding Various Professions Questionnaire" was used to determine the gender role…

  13. Comparative Analysis of Expectancies of Efficacy in In-Service and Prospective Teachers

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    de la Torre Cruz, Manuel J.; Casanova Arias, Pedro F.

    2007-01-01

    This study examines the beliefs about effective teaching in student teachers and inservice teachers. We constructed a measurement composed of an adaptation in Spanish of the Gibson and Dembo's (1984. Teacher efficacy: A construct validation. "Journal of Educational Psychology", 76, 569-582). Teacher Efficacy Scale and of the items…

  14. Measurement Invariance of the "Servant Leadership Questionnaire" across K-12 Principal Gender

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Xu, Lihua; Stewart, Trae; Haber-Curran, Paige

    2015-01-01

    Measurement invariance of the five-factor "Servant Leadership Questionnaire" between female and male K-12 principals was tested using multi-group confirmatory factor analysis. A sample of 956 principals (56.9% were females and 43.1% were males) was analysed in this study. The hierarchical multi-step measurement invariance test supported…

  15. Evaluation of anthropometric parameters and physical fitness in elderly Japanese.

    PubMed

    Miyatake, Nobuyuki; Miyachi, Motohiko; Tabata, Izumi; Numata, Takeyuki

    2012-01-01

    We evaluated anthropometric parameters and physical fitness in elderly Japanese. A total of 2,106 elderly Japanese (749 men and 1,357 women), aged 60-79 years, were enrolled in a cross-sectional investigation study. Anthropometric parameters and physical fitness, i.e., muscle strength and flexibility, were measured. Of the 2,106 subjects, 569 subjects (302 men and 267 women) were further evaluated for aerobic exercise level, using the ventilatory threshold (VT). Muscle strength in subjects in their 70s was significantly lower than that in subjects in their 60s in both sexes. Two hundred and twenty-nine men (30.6%) and 540 women (39.8%) were taking no medications. In men, anthropometric parameters were significantly lower and muscle strength, flexibility, and work rate at VT were significantly higher in subjects without medications than these values in subjects with medications. In women, body weight, body mass index (BMI), and abdominal circumference were significantly lower, and muscle strength was significantly higher in subjects without medications than these values in subjects with medications. This mean value may provide a useful database for evaluating anthropometric parameters and physical fitness in elderly Japanese subjects.

  16. Preceedings of the International Congress (12th), Corrosion Control for Low-Cost Reliability, Held in Houston, Texas on September 19 -24, 1993. Volume 3A. Corrosion: Specific Issues.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-09-24

    Environmental Safety - nad Irreconcilable Antagonism in the Chemical 097 Application of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy to Study Process Industry the...195 569 Study of Enameling Properties on the Hot-RolledTi-Containing 044 Compatability of Organic Coatings with Flame Spraying...204 COATINGS METALLIC COATING AND SURFACE TREATMENTS 025 Study of Anticorrosion Properties

  17. Long-Term Durability of Bioprosthetic Aortic Valves: Implications From 12,569 Implants

    PubMed Central

    Johnston, Douglas R.; Soltesz, Edward G.; Vakil, Nakul; Rajeswaran, Jeevanantham; Roselli, Eric E.; Sabik, Joseph F.; Smedira, Nicholas G.; Svensson, Lars G.; Lytle, Bruce W.; Blackstone, Eugene H.

    2016-01-01

    Background Increased life expectancy and younger patients’ desire to avoid lifelong anticoagulation requires a better understanding of bioprosthetic valve failure. This study evaluates risk factors associated with explantation for structural valve deterioration (SVD) in a long-term series of Carpentier-Edwards PERIMOUNT aortic valves (AV). Methods From June 1982 to January 2011, 12,569 patients underwent AV replacement with Edwards Lifesciences Carpentier-Edwards PERIMOUNT stented bovine pericardial prostheses, models 2700PM (n = 310) or 2700 (n = 12,259). Mean age was 71 ± 11 years (range, 18 to 98 years). 93% had native AV disease, 48% underwent concomitant coronary artery bypass grafting, and 26% had additional valve surgery. There were 81,706 patient-years of systematic follow-up data available for analysis. Demographics, intraoperative variables, and 27,386 echocardiographic records were used to identify risks for explant for SVD and assess longitudinal changes in transprosthesis gradients using time-varying covariable analyses. Results Three hundred fifty-four explants were performed, with 41% related to endocarditis and 44% to SVD. Actuarial estimates of explant for SVD at 10 and 20 years were 1.9% and 15% overall, respectively, and in patients younger than 60 years, 5.6% and 46%, respectively. Younger age (p < 0.0001), lipid-lowering drugs (p = 0.002), prosthesis–patient mismatch (p = 0.001), and higher postoperative peak and mean AV gradients were associated with explant for SVD (p < 0.0001). The effect of gradient on SVD was greatest in patients younger than 60 years. Conclusions Durability of the Carpentier-Edwards PERIMOUNT aortic valve is excellent even in younger patients. Explant for SVD is related to gradient at implantation, especially in younger patients. Strategies to reduce early postoperative AV gradients, such as root enlargement or more efficient prostheses, should be considered. PMID:25662439

  18. Factor Structure of the Revised TOEIC[R] Test: A Multiple-Sample Analysis

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    In'nami, Yo; Koizumi, Rie

    2012-01-01

    This study examined the factor structure of the listening and reading sections of the revised Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC[R]) test. The data from the TOEIC IP (institutional program) test taken by 569 English learners were randomly split into two samples (n = 285 vs. 284). Four models (higher-order, correlated,…

  19. Characterization of Breast Cancer Progression by Analysis of Genetic Markers.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1997-11-01

    between D 11S922 and DllS569,16 a region that includes the D11S988-TH chromosomal segment. A study of 13 hepatoblastomas suggested a significant region of...maternal allele in hepatoblastoma . J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 1994, 120:732-736. 20. Weksberg R, Squire JA: Molecular biology of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome

  20. Investigating the ICT Use and Needs of "Digital Natives" in Learning English at a Taiwanese University

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Ko, Chao-Jung; Thang, Siew Ming; Ou, Shu-chen

    2014-01-01

    This article reports key findings of a study which investigated the use of technology by 569 "digital natives" students for English Language learning and recreational purposes. Their views on the applicability of technological tools such as Facebook, blogging and Skype for English Language teaching and learning were also investigated.…

  1. Prostate health index (PHI) and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) predictive models for prostate cancer in the Chinese population and the role of digital rectal examination-estimated prostate volume.

    PubMed

    Chiu, Peter K F; Roobol, Monique J; Teoh, Jeremy Y; Lee, Wai-Man; Yip, Siu-Ying; Hou, See-Ming; Bangma, Chris H; Ng, Chi-Fai

    2016-10-01

    To investigate PSA- and PHI (prostate health index)-based models for prediction of prostate cancer (PCa) and the feasibility of using DRE-estimated prostate volume (DRE-PV) in the models. This study included 569 Chinese men with PSA 4-10 ng/mL and non-suspicious DRE with transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) 10-core prostate biopsies performed between April 2008 and July 2015. DRE-PV was estimated using 3 pre-defined classes: 25, 40, or 60 ml. The performance of PSA-based and PHI-based predictive models including age, DRE-PV, and TRUS prostate volume (TRUS-PV) was analyzed using logistic regression and area under the receiver operating curves (AUC), in both the whole cohort and the screening age group of 55-75. PCa and high-grade PCa (HGPCa) was diagnosed in 10.9 % (62/569) and 2.8 % (16/569) men, respectively. The performance of DRE-PV-based models was similar to TRUS-PV-based models. In the age group 55-75, the AUCs for PCa of PSA alone, PSA with DRE-PV and age, PHI alone, PHI with DRE-PV and age, and PHI with TRUS-PV and age were 0.54, 0.71, 0.76, 0.78, and 0.78, respectively. The corresponding AUCs for HGPCa were higher (0.60, 0.70, 0.85, 0.83, and 0.83). At 10 and 20 % risk threshold for PCa, 38.4 and 55.4 % biopsies could be avoided in the PHI-based model, respectively. PHI had better performance over PSA-based models and could reduce unnecessary biopsies. A DRE-assessed PV can replace TRUS-assessed PV in multivariate prediction models to facilitate clinical use.

  2. Effect of selection agents to Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium) callus growth after Agrobacterium-mediated genetic transformation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sjahril, R.; Jamaluddin, I.; Nadir, M.; Asman; Dungga, N. E.

    2018-05-01

    Genetic transformation mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens requires an efficient selection method for successful progress of transformation. This study aims to determine the concentration and kind of antibiotics and selection agents used during transformation to formulate standard protocol of chrysanthemum in the process of propagating disease resistant Chrysanthemum mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens EHA105 (pEKB-WD). The experiments were performed by planting chrysanthemum explants leaf cutting (5 mm diameter on NAA medium 2 mg L-1 BAP 2 mg L-1) with addition of Kanamycin: 25, 50, 100, 150 and 200 (mg L-1); Hygromycin: 5, 10, 25, 50 and 75 (mg L-1); Paromomycin: 10, 25, 50, 75 and 100 (mg L-1). Experiment was arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Each treatment was repeated five times thus 75 bottles of culture were used; each bottle consists of 5 pieces of leaf cuttings, resulted in total of 375 pieces. The results showed that selection agent had a critical value for Hygromycin 25 mg L-1 and Kanamycin 100 mg L-1 which can make explant experienced necrosis better than Paromomycin. Paromomycin at 100 mg L-1 was only able to kill explant’s periphery. Remained callus stayed fresh more than 50% so that when used as the selection agent could produce more escape cell. The optimum transformation with concentration of 10% Agrobacterium (vol/vol) with 30 minutes co-cultivation can produce more efficient transformed callus. Considering the high price of Hygromycin, it was best to use Kanamycin as selective agents.

  3. Assessment and Implications of Coping Styles in Response to a Social Stressor among Early Adolescents in China

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kingsbury, Mila; Liu, Junsheng; Coplan, Robert J.; Chen, Xinyin; Li, Dan

    2016-01-01

    The aims of the present study were to (a) examine the factor structure of the "Self-Report Coping Scale" in a sample of Chinese early adolescents and (b) explore associations between coping and socioemotional functioning in this sample. Participants were N = 569 elementary school students (307 boys) in Grades 4 to 6. Participants…

  4. [Anxiety and depression in patients with chronic pain: neuropathic and nociceptive].

    PubMed

    Morales-Vigil, Tania; Alfaro-Ramírez del Castillo, Olga Isabel; Sánchez-Román, Sofía; Guevara-López, Uriah; Vázquez-Pineda, Fernando

    2008-01-01

    To describe and compare anxiety and depression symptoms between two group patients with neuropathic and nociceptive pain those arrive for first time to a clinic of pain. Non-experimental, exploratory and descriptive design. Seventy-eight patients that arrive the first time to a clinic of pain were evaluated; those patients were divided in two groups: neuropathic pain with 44 patients and nociceptive pain with 34 patients. To evaluate anxiety and depression we use the Anxiety and Depression Scale (HAD), this scale is adapted and validated in Mexico. From the 78 patients in the study, the 76.9% were female and 23.1% were male. The age average was (56.9 +/- 16.8 year-old for neuropathic pain and 63.1 +/- 17.2 year-old for nociceptive pain). The reliability of the scale HAD was evaluated by the Chronbach's alpha analysis with an r = 0.826. There was no significance difference in anxiety and depression between types of pain, but after analyzing all of the patients we found that anxiety was more frequent than depression p < 0.0001. Independently of the algological diagnosis, patients presented almost the same affective symptoms.

  5. OBJECTIVE AND SUBJECTIVE EVALUATION OF ADOLESCENT’S ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT NEEDS AND THEIR IMPACT ON SELF-ESTEEM

    PubMed Central

    Sharma, Anshika; Mathur, Anmol; Batra, Manu; Makkar, Diljot Kaur; Aggarwal, Vikram Pal; Goyal, Nikita; Kaur, Puneet

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the presence of association between objective and subjective evaluation of orthodontic treatment needs in adolescents and their impact on their self-esteem. Methods: Cross-sectional study with adolescents aged 10-17 years old in Sri Ganganagar city, Rajasthan, India. The objective index of orthodontic treatment need (IOTN) dental health component (DHC) and the subjective aesthetic component (AC) were used to determine the normative and the self-perception need for orthodontic treatment, respectively. The selected students were further examined for dental trauma, tooth loss, and dental caries. Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale was applied for self-esteem level determination. Linear regression analysis was executed to test the individual association of different independent clinical variables with self-esteem scores. Results: Among 1,140 studied adolescents, the prevalence of dental normative orthodontic treatment need was in 56.9% of individuals, whereas 53.3% of individuals considered themselves as needy for the treatment. Multivariate analyses revealed that out of all dental disorders, DHC followed by AC of IOTN had maximum impact on the self-esteem of the adolescence. Conclusions: Dissatisfaction with dental appearance is a strong predictor for low self-esteem in adolescence. PMID:28977320

  6. Psychometric evaluation of the Northwick Park Dependency Scale.

    PubMed

    Siegert, Richard J; Turner-Stokes, Lynne

    2010-11-01

    To examine the psychometric properties of the Northwick Park Dependency Scale (NPDS). Review of existing literature and psychometric analysis in relation to other standardized measures of disability in a large neurorehabilitation cohort. A regional post-acute specialist inpatient neurorehabilitation unit in London, UK. A total of 569 inpatients with complex neurological disabilities (350 males, 219 females; mean age 44.4 years). The NPDS, Barthel Index, Functional Independence and Functional Assessment measures. A database search found 5 studies that examined the psychometrics of the NPDS. These supported its validity and reliability. The present study added to these by evaluating the internal consistency, factor structure, discriminatory power and responsiveness to change during rehabilitation. The NPDS was found to have good internal consistency (α = 0.90), suggesting that it can reasonably be summed to a single total score. It discriminated among people with different levels of dependency and was responsive to change, particularly in the higher dependency groups. The NPDS is a psychometrically robust tool, providing a broader range of information on nursing needs than some other commonly-used disability measures. The Special Nursing Needs subscale provides clinically useful information, but its metric properties require further development, which is now underway.

  7. OBJECTIVE AND SUBJECTIVE EVALUATION OF ADOLESCENT'S ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT NEEDS AND THEIR IMPACT ON SELF-ESTEEM.

    PubMed

    Sharma, Anshika; Mathur, Anmol; Batra, Manu; Makkar, Diljot Kaur; Aggarwal, Vikram Pal; Goyal, Nikita; Kaur, Puneet

    2017-01-01

    To investigate the presence of association between objective and subjective evaluation of orthodontic treatment needs in adolescents and their impact on their self-esteem. Cross-sectional study with adolescents aged 10-17 years old in Sri Ganganagar city, Rajasthan, India. The objective index of orthodontic treatment need (IOTN) dental health component (DHC) and the subjective aesthetic component (AC) were used to determine the normative and the self-perception need for orthodontic treatment, respectively. The selected students were further examined for dental trauma, tooth loss, and dental caries. Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale was applied for self-esteem level determination. Linear regression analysis was executed to test the individual association of different independent clinical variables with self-esteem scores. Among 1,140 studied adolescents, the prevalence of dental normative orthodontic treatment need was in 56.9% of individuals, whereas 53.3% of individuals considered themselves as needy for the treatment. Multivariate analyses revealed that out of all dental disorders, DHC followed by AC of IOTN had maximum impact on the self-esteem of the adolescence. Dissatisfaction with dental appearance is a strong predictor for low self-esteem in adolescence.

  8. Piston Heat-Transfer Coefficients Across an Oil Film in a Smooth-Walled Piston Reciprocating-Sleeve Apparatus

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1945-12-01

    341 212 276 .0482 2659 1419 85 5.69 490 20 130 .467 4.74 03 370 232 301 .0541 2935 • 153« 125 2.84 950 42 159 .400 2.76 97 292 205 249 . 0428 2024...540 41 150 .476 3.05 BO 325 209 267 . 0428 2627 1388 170 5.69 540 39 150 .476 4.63 01 377 236 307 .0529 3008 1610 171 1.90 540 20 151 .477 1.46 78 258... 1307 91 3.79 525 58 131 .467 3.02 80 306 197 251 .0456 2425 1295 92 3.79 525 77 130 .467 2.11 56 303 193 248 .0452 2392 1283 147 6.64 940 85 153 .478

  9. Management of venous thromboembolism in patients with glioma.

    PubMed

    Al Megren, Mosaad; De Wit, Carine; Al Qahtani, Mohammad; Le Gal, Grégoire; Carrier, Marc

    2017-08-01

    Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common complication among patients with glioma. However, data on the safety of therapeutic doses of anticoagulation is scarce in this patient population. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the risk of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in glioma patients receiving therapeutic anticoagulation for VTE treatment. We conducted a case-control study including glioma patients with and without acute VTE from Jan 2010 to March 2015. Controls were matched based on age, gender and tumor grade. 569 patients with glioma were identified, 76 (13.3%) developed acute VTE. Of the 70 patients treated with full dose anticoagulant therapy, 14 (20%) patients had a major bleeding including 11 (15.7%) ICH. The odds ratio for ICH in patients with glioma and VTE who were treated with anticoagulation compared to the control group was 7.5 (95% CI, 1.6-34.9) p=0.01. Overall survival was similar for VTE and control group (36 vs. 42months, p=0.93). Therapeutic anticoagulation is associated with a 7-fold increase risk of ICH in glioma patients. Data emerging from this study support the need for high quality studies to evaluate the risk of ICH in patients with glioma and VTE. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  10. Threshold value of home pulse pressure predicting arterial stiffness in patients with type 2 diabetes: KAMOGAWA-HBP study.

    PubMed

    Kitagawa, Noriyuki; Ushigome, Emi; Matsumoto, Shinobu; Oyabu, Chikako; Ushigome, Hidetaka; Yokota, Isao; Asano, Mai; Tanaka, Muhei; Yamazaki, Masahiro; Fukui, Michiaki

    2018-03-01

    This cross-sectional multicenter study was designed to evaluate the threshold value of home pulse pressure (PP) and home systolic blood pressure (SBP) predicting the arterial stiffness in 876 patients with type 2 diabetes. We measured the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) and estimated the ability of home PP to identify arterial stiffness using Youden-Index defined cut-off point. The arterial stiffness was measured using the brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV). AUC for arterial stiffness in morning PP was significantly greater than that in morning SBP (P < .001). AUC for arterial stiffness in evening PP was also significantly greater than that in evening SBP (P < .001). The optimal cut-off points for morning PP and evening PP, which predicted arterial stiffness, were 54.6 and 56.9 mm Hg, respectively. Our findings indicate that we should pay more attention to increased home PP in patients with type 2 diabetes. ©2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  11. Victualling for Future Royal Australia Navy Platforms - Alternative Technologies

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-11-01

    research, Theresa studied the influence of dietary changes on the flavour and keeping quality of meat, working closely with the Australian meat...technology using high-energy pulsed electric field (PEF) to breakdown harmful microorganisms and enzymes in liquids and slurries. Liquids are pumped...4. Duplessis, C.A., et al., Vitamin D supplementation in underway submariners Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine, 2005. 76(6): p. 569-575

  12. A Response to Professor Wu Zongjie's "Interpretation, Autonomy, and Transformation: Chinese Pedagogic Discourse in a Cross-Cultural Perspective"

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Curran, Thomas D.

    2014-01-01

    In response to an essay by Prof Wu Zongjie that was published in the "Journal of Curriculum Studies" [43(5), (2011), 569-590], I argue that, despite dramatic changes that have taken place in the language of Chinese academic discourse and pedagogy, evidence derived from the fields of psychology and the history of Chinese educational…

  13. The Role of Task Persistence in Young Adolescence for Successful Educational and Occupational Attainment in Middle Adulthood

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Andersson, Hakan; Bergman, Lars R.

    2011-01-01

    The main purpose of the present study was to investigate the importance of task persistence in young adolescence for successful educational and occupational attainment in middle adulthood. Data from age 13 (N = 1,092) and adult age (age 43 for women, N = 569 and age 47 for men, N = 393) were taken from the Swedish longitudinal research program…

  14. Multi-Wave Prospective Examination of the Stress-Reactivity Extension of Response Styles Theory of Depression in High-Risk Children and Early Adolescents

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Abela, John R. Z.; Hankin, Benjamin L.; Sheshko, Dana M.; Fishman, Michael B.; Stolow, Darren

    2012-01-01

    The current study tested the stress-reactivity extension of response styles theory of depression (Nolen-Hoeksema "Journal of Abnormal Psychology" 100:569-582, 1991) in a sample of high-risk children and early adolescents from a vulnerability-stress perspective using a multi-wave longitudinal design. In addition, we examined whether obtained…

  15. [Autopsies for fetal anomalies].

    PubMed

    Kidron, Debora; Eidel, Jouly; Aviram, Rami

    2013-06-01

    Fetal autopsies are effective in identifying the cause and/or mechanisms leading to death in cases of intrauterine fetal death. Autopsies for fetal anomalies are different. To summarize our experience with 569 autopsies of fetal anomalies which were performed during an 18-year period. A retrospective analysis of 569 autopsies of fetal anomalies was conducted, out of a total of 1067 fetal autopsies. The pregnancy weeks were 14 - 41. Among 569 cases, 88% were termination of pregnancies, 10% intrauterine death and 2% perinatal deaths. The diagnosis of a syndrome or disease process was made when a constellation of gross and/or histologic findings was met. Specific diagnoses were offered in cases of cystic diseases of kidneys, types of dwarfism, tumors and fetal hydrops. Teratogenic (acquired) processes, such as congenital infections, thrombosis and cerebral hemorrhages, were differentiated from malformations. In cases of multiple congenital anomalies, documentation of the entire spectrum of malformations facilitated the genetic counseling. First and foremost, the autopsy is performed in the interest of the parents, with their written consent and in accordance with limitations and requests which they pose. Autopsy results provide feedback to the prenatal imaging. They assist in focusing the genetic counseling. Autopsy reports provide tools of control for the health authorities. Autopsies for fetal anomalies are time consuming. They require skill and experience. They are helpfuL when the prenatal diagnosis raises differential diagnosis. They are Less helpful when the diagnosis is clear, i.e. chromosomal trisomy.

  16. Survival and multiplication of Vibrio cholerae in the upper bowel of infant mice.

    PubMed

    Baselski, V S; Medina, R A; Parker, C D

    1978-11-01

    The survival and multiplication of Vibrio cholerae strains of varying virulence in the upper bowel of orally challenged infant mice early in infection has been examined. Analysis of changes in the apparent specific activity (counts per minute per colony-forming unit) of the cell population after 4 h compared with the inoculum indicated that strain CA401 established a viable, multiplying cell population, whereas strains VB12 (a rough variant) and 569B were subject to host bactericidal and bacteriolytic mechanisms. An analysis of parameters which may affect the specific activity is included. We have defined the infective potential of the strains in terms of the changes in specific activity. The relative infective potentials are CA401 greater than 569B greater than VB12.

  17. Survival and multiplication of Vibrio cholerae in the upper bowel of infant mice.

    PubMed Central

    Baselski, V S; Medina, R A; Parker, C D

    1978-01-01

    The survival and multiplication of Vibrio cholerae strains of varying virulence in the upper bowel of orally challenged infant mice early in infection has been examined. Analysis of changes in the apparent specific activity (counts per minute per colony-forming unit) of the cell population after 4 h compared with the inoculum indicated that strain CA401 established a viable, multiplying cell population, whereas strains VB12 (a rough variant) and 569B were subject to host bactericidal and bacteriolytic mechanisms. An analysis of parameters which may affect the specific activity is included. We have defined the infective potential of the strains in terms of the changes in specific activity. The relative infective potentials are CA401 greater than 569B greater than VB12. PMID:730364

  18. Correlates of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Symptoms in Marines Back from War

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-02-01

    et al. (2008). Risk factors for post - traumatic stress disorder amongUKArmed Forces personnel. Psychological Medicine, 38, 511–522. King, D.W., King...Slymen, D. J., Sallis, J. F., & Kritz- Silverstein, D. (2008). New onset and persistent symptoms of post - traumatic stress disorder self reported...objective of this study was to identify factors associated with possible posttraumatic stress disorder ( PTSD ). A questionnaire was completed by 1,569

  19. Treatability Study in Support of Intrinsic Remediation for Pumphouse 75 (Site 57) at MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1997-01-01

    mechanisms (Grbic’-Galic’, 1990; Belier et al., 1992; Edwards et al., 1992; Edwards and Grbic’-Galic’, 1992, Grbic’-Galic’ and Vogel, 1987; Lovely et al...Bear, J. 1979. Hydraulics of Groundwater: McGraw-Hill, Inc., New York, 569 p. Belier , H.R., M. Reinhard, and D. Grbic-Galic. 1992. Metabolic

  20. Quality of Reporting Nutritional Randomized Controlled Trials in Patients With Cystic Fibrosis.

    PubMed

    Daitch, Vered; Babich, Tanya; Singer, Pierre; Leibovici, Leonard

    2016-08-01

    Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have a major role in the making of evidence-based guidelines. The aim of the present study was to critically appraise the RCTs that addressed nutritional interventions in patients with cystic fibrosis. Embase, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched until July 2015. Methodology and reporting of nutritional RCTs were evaluated by the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) checklist and additional dimensions relevant to patients with CF. Fifty-one RCTs were included. Full details on methods were provided in a minority of studies. The mean duration of intervention was <6 months. 56.9% of the RCTs did not define a primary outcome; 70.6% of studies did not provide details on sample size calculation; and only 31.4% reported on the subgroup or separated between important subgroups. The examined RCTs were characterized by a weak methodology, a small number of patients with no sample size calculations, a relatively short intervention, and many times did not examine the outcomes that are important to the patient. Improvement over the years has been minor.

  1. The Effects of Scavenging on Waste Nitrous Oxide Concentrations in Veterinary Operating Room Air

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1981-06-01

    nitrous oxide with vitamin B (1, 8, 15, 34). The first report of nitrous oxide concentrations in human operating rooms appeared in 1969 and...study. Anesthesiology 29:565-569. 5. Cohen, E.N., J.W. Belvill and B.W. Brown, Jr. 1971. Anesthesia, pregnancy, and miscarriage : A study of...Chanarin. 1978. Editorial: nitrous oxide and vitamin B . Br. J. Anaesth. 50:1089-1090. 17 35. Ruby, D.L., R.M. Buchan and B.J. Gunter. 1980. Waste

  2. Clean Estuaries Act of 2010

    THOMAS, 111th Congress

    Rep. Bishop, Timothy H. [D-NY-1

    2010-03-02

    Senate - 09/16/2010 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 569. (All Actions) Tracker: This bill has the status Passed HouseHere are the steps for Status of Legislation:

  3. SHP-1 Binds and Negatively Modulates the c-Kit Receptor by Interaction with Tyrosine 569 in the c-Kit Juxtamembrane Domain

    PubMed Central

    Kozlowski, Maya; Larose, Louise; Lee, Fai; Le, Duc Mingh; Rottapel, Robert; Siminovitch, Katherine A.

    1998-01-01

    The SH2 domain-containing SHP-1 tyrosine phosphatase has been shown to negatively regulate a broad spectrum of growth factor- and cytokine-driven mitogenic signaling pathways. Included among these is the cascade of intracellular events evoked by stem cell factor binding to c-Kit, a tyrosine kinase receptor which associates with and is dephosphorylated by SHP-1. Using a series of glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion proteins containing either tyrosine-phosphorylated segments of the c-Kit cytosolic region or the SH2 domains of SHP-1, we have shown that SHP-1 interacts with c-Kit by binding selectively to the phosphorylated c-Kit juxtamembrane region and that the association of c-Kit with the larger of the two SHP-1 isoforms may be mediated through either the N-terminal or C-terminal SHP-1 SH2 domain. The results of binding assays with mutagenized GST-Kit juxtamembrane fusion proteins and competitive inhibition assays with phosphopeptides encompassing each c-Kit juxtamembrane region identified the tyrosine residue at position 569 as the major site for binding of SHP-1 to c-Kit and suggested that tyrosine 567 contributes to, but is not required for, this interaction. By analysis of Ba/F3 cells retrovirally transduced to express c-Kit receptors, phenylalanine substitution of c-Kit tyrosine residue 569 was shown to be associated with disruption of c-Kit–SHP-1 binding and induction of hyperproliferative responses to stem cell factor. Although phenylalanine substitution of c-Kit tyrosine residue 567 in the Ba/F3–c-Kit cells did not alter SHP-1 binding to c-Kit, the capacity of a second c-Kit-binding tyrosine phosphatase, SHP-2, to associate with c-Kit was markedly reduced, and the cells again showed hyperproliferative responses to stem cell factor. These data therefore identify SHP-1 binding to tyrosine 569 on c-Kit as an interaction pivotal to SHP-1 inhibitory effects on c-Kit signaling, but they indicate as well that cytosolic protein tyrosine phosphatases other than SHP-1 may also negatively regulate the coupling of c-Kit engagement to proliferation. PMID:9528781

  4. Altered heme catabolism by heme oxygenase-1 caused by mutations in human NADPH cytochrome P450 reductase

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

    Pandey, Amit V., E-mail: amit@pandeylab.org; Flueck, Christa E.; Mullis, Primus E.

    2010-09-24

    Research highlights: {yields} Mutations in POR identified from patients lead to reduced HO-1 activities. {yields} POR mutation Y181D affecting FMN binding results in total loss of HO-1 activity. {yields} POR mutations A287P, C569Y and V608F, lost 50-70% activity. {yields} Mutations in FAD binding domain, R457H, Y459H and V492E lost all HO-1 activity. {yields} POR polymorphisms P228L, R316W, G413S, A503V and G504R have normal activity. -- Abstract: Human heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) carries out heme catabolism supported by electrons supplied from the NADPH through NADPH P450 reductase (POR, CPR). Previously we have shown that mutations in human POR cause a rare formmore » of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. In this study, we have evaluated the effects of mutations in POR on HO-1 activity. We used purified preparations of wild type and mutant human POR and in vitro reconstitution with purified HO-1 to measure heme degradation in a coupled assay using biliverdin reductase. Here we show that mutations in POR found in patients may reduce HO-1 activity, potentially influencing heme catabolism in individuals carrying mutant POR alleles. POR mutants Y181D, A457H, Y459H, V492E and R616X had total loss of HO-1 activity, while POR mutations A287P, C569Y and V608F lost 50-70% activity. The POR variants P228L, R316W and G413S, A503V and G504R identified as polymorphs had close to WT activity. Loss of HO-1 activity may result in increased oxidative neurotoxicity, anemia, growth retardation and iron deposition. Further examination of patients affected with POR deficiency will be required to assess the metabolic effects of reduced HO-1 activity in affected individuals.« less

  5. Evaluation of the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of an over-the-counter acne regimen containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid in subjects with acne.

    PubMed

    Kircik, Leon H; Gwazdauskas, Jennifer; Butners, Victoria; Eastern, Joseph; Green, Lawrence J

    2013-03-01

    Benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is a widely used over-the-counter (OTC) topical acne treatment often used in combination with salicylic acid (SA) to achieve better comedone control than that achieved with BPO alone. MaxClarity™ is an OTC acne treatment system comprising BPO and SA in an aqueous foam delivery vehicle, VersaFoam AF™. This paper describes 2 open-label, single-arm studies conducted to assess the efficacy, safety, tolerability, and patient preference of MaxClarity in the treatment of mild, moderate, and severe acne. Subjects applied MaxClarity twice daily for 8 weeks in study 402 and for 12 weeks in study 405. Reductions in all lesion types were seen throughout both studies. At week 8 (study 402), there was a mean reduction from baseline of -56.9 ± 32.7% in total lesions in subjects with mild, moderate, or severe acne. At week 12 (study 405), there was a reduction from baseline of -61.6 ± 22.0% in total lesions in subjects with moderate or severe acne. Overall, both studies demonstrated that MaxClarity is a generally well tolerated and effective treatment for mild, moderate, and severe acne.

  6. Research methodology workshops evaluation using the Kirkpatrick's model: translating theory into practice.

    PubMed

    Abdulghani, Hamza Mohammad; Shaik, Shaffi Ahamed; Khamis, Nehal; Al-Drees, Abdulmajeed Abdulrahman; Irshad, Mohammad; Khalil, Mahmoud Salah; Alhaqwi, Ali Ibrahim; Isnani, Arthur

    2014-04-01

    Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of academic programs can enhance the development, effectiveness, and dissemination of comparative quality reports as well as quality improvement efforts. To evaluate the five research methodology workshops through assessing participants' satisfaction, knowledge and skills gain and impact on practices by the Kirkpatrick's evaluation model. The four level Kirkpatrick's model was applied for the evaluation. Training feedback questionnaires, pre and post tests, learner development plan reports and behavioral surveys were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the workshop programs. Of the 116 participants, 28 (24.1%) liked with appreciation, 62 (53.4%) liked with suggestions and 26 (22.4%) disliked the programs. Pre and post MCQs tests mean scores showed significant improvement of relevant basic knowledge and cognitive skills by 17.67% (p ≤ 0.005). Pre-and-post tests scores on workshops sub-topics also significantly improved for the manuscripts (p ≤ 0.031) and proposal writing (p ≤ 0.834). As for the impact, 56.9% of participants started research, and 6.9% published their studies. The results from participants' performance revealed an overall positive feedback and 79% of participant reported transfer of training skills at their workplace. The course outcomes achievement and suggestions given for improvements offer insight into the program which were encouraging and very useful. Encouraging "research culture" and work-based learning are probably the most powerful determinants for research promotion. These findings therefore encourage faculty development unit to continue its training and development in the research methodology aspects.

  7. Non-Federal Employee Whistleblower Protection Act of 2012

    THOMAS, 112th Congress

    Sen. McCaskill, Claire [D-MO

    2011-01-31

    Senate - 12/19/2012 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 569. (All Actions) Tracker: This bill has the status IntroducedHere are the steps for Status of Legislation:

  8. Hubble Space Telescope Scattered-light Imaging and Modeling of the Edge-on Protoplanetary Disk ESO-Hα 569

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wolff, Schuyler G.; Perrin, Marshall D.; Stapelfeldt, Karl; Duchêne, Gaspard; Ménard, Francois; Padgett, Deborah; Pinte, Christophe; Pueyo, Laurent; Fischer, William J.

    2017-12-01

    We present new Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Advanced Camera for Surveys observations and detailed models for a recently discovered edge-on protoplanetary disk around ESO-Hα 569 (a low-mass T Tauri star in the Cha I star-forming region). Using radiative transfer models, we probe the distribution of the grains and overall shape of the disk (inclination, scale height, dust mass, flaring exponent, and surface/volume density exponent) by model fitting to multiwavelength (F606W and F814W) HST observations together with a literature-compiled spectral energy distribution. A new tool set was developed for finding optimal fits of MCFOST radiative transfer models using the MCMC code emcee to efficiently explore the high-dimensional parameter space. It is able to self-consistently and simultaneously fit a wide variety of observables in order to place constraints on the physical properties of a given disk, while also rigorously assessing the uncertainties in those derived properties. We confirm that ESO-Hα 569 is an optically thick nearly edge-on protoplanetary disk. The shape of the disk is well-described by a flared disk model with an exponentially tapered outer edge, consistent with models previously advocated on theoretical grounds and supported by millimeter interferometry. The scattered-light images and spectral energy distribution are best fit by an unusually high total disk mass (gas+dust assuming a ratio of 100:1) with a disk-to-star mass ratio of 0.16.

  9. Assessment of the smoke-free outdoor regulation in the WHO European Region.

    PubMed

    Martínez, Cristina; Guydish, Joseph; Robinson, Gillian; Martínez-Sánchez, Jose María; Fernández, Esteve

    2014-07-01

    The aim of this study is to assess the level of protection of secondhand smoke in outdoor locations among countries belonging to the WHO European Region. This cross-sectional study measures the level of protection provided by laws in outdoor locations. A protocol to evaluate the outdoor smoke-free legislation was developed according to the recommendations provided by the WHO Guidelines for implementing smoke-free outdoor places. For each law 6 main sectors and 28 outdoor locations were evaluated. 68 laws from 48 countries were reviewed, totally assessing 1758 locations. Overall 3.1% of the locations specified 100% smoke-free outdoor regulation without exceptions, 2.5% permitted smoking in designated outdoor areas, 37.5% allowed smoking everywhere, and 56.9% did not provide information about how to deal with smoking in outdoor places. In the Education sector 17.8% of the laws specified smoke-free outdoor regulation, mainly in the primary and secondary schools. Three pioneering laws from recreational locations and two from general health facilities specified 100% outdoor smoke-free regulation. Outdoor smoke-free policies among countries belonging to the WHO European Region are limited and mainly have been passed in the primary and secondary schools, which protect minors from the hazards of secondhand smoke in educational settings. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  10. Prevalence of dental anomalies on panoramic radiographs in a population of the state of Pará, Brazil.

    PubMed

    Goncalves-Filho, Antonio Jg; Moda, Larissa B; Oliveira, Roberta P; Ribeiro, Andre Luis Ribeiro; Pinheiro, João Jv; Alver-Junior, S Rgio M

    2014-01-01

    Dental anomalies (DAs) are the result of disorders that are able to modify the shape, number, size, and structure of teeth. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of DAs using panoramic radiographs in a population of the City of Belém, northern Brazil. In this study, 487 panoramic radiographs were evaluated searching for DAs. Dental records were reviewed for diagnostic confirmation. DAs related to the shape, number, size, and structure of teeth were investigated. Our results showed a DA prevalence of 56.9%. The most prevalent DA was taurodontism, which was present in 27.19% of cases. Root dilaceration was the second most prevalent DA in adults, whereas hypodontia was the second most prevalent DA in children. A total of 13 DAs were found. Dental anomalies were present in over half of the sample, and most of them were related to the shape of the teeth. Although there was a high prevalence of shape-related DAs, these alterations are generally of lower severity, and most do not require specific treatment. However, in 19.25% of cases, DAs were found involving the number, size and structure of the teeth. These DAs should be diagnosed and treated early, avoiding thus more serious complications.

  11. Neonatal resuscitation: a knowledge gap amongst obstetrical trainees. A cross-sectional survey amongst medical graduates of Civil Hospital Karachi.

    PubMed

    Noor, Tooba; Raza, Natasha; Haq, Gulfishan

    2014-07-01

    To evaluate the neonatal resuscitation competence of obstetrical trainees to assess the gap in knowledge and to determine training needs. The cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Civil Hospital, Karachi, from January to March 2013 and comprised House Officers and Postgraduate trainees. A questionnaire was used to test the evaluation skills of different conditions and choice of appropriate action required during neonatal resuscitation. Data was collected and analysed through SPSS 17.0. Of the 102 obstetrical trainees, 44 (43.1%) were House Officers and 58 (56.9%) were Postgraduate trainees with an overall mean age 25.69 +/- 2.3 years. Only 19 (18.6%) subjects cleared the test; 8 (42.1%) of them were House Officers and 11 (57.9%) were Postgraduate trainees. The result did not show any significant difference between those who had previous training or those who had performed neonatal resuscitation and those who had no such exposure. Majority, 92 (90.2%) considered their knowledge inadequate and 99 (97%) favoured that updated neonatal resuscitation programmes should be periodically arranged. The study showed inadequate level of knowledge on neonatal resuscitation amongst obstetrical trainees. There is urgent need of formal training programmes which can make doctors skilful enough to face any adverse neonatal outcome professionally.

  12. Phytochemical and biological evaluation of some Sargassum species from Persian Gulf

    PubMed Central

    Mehdinezhad, Negin; Ghannadi, Alireza; Yegdaneh, Afsaneh

    2016-01-01

    Sea algae are widely consumed in the world. There are several seaweeds including brown algae which are authorized for human consumption. These plants contain important phytochemical constituents and have various potential biological activities. The present study investigated the presence of phytochemical constituents and total phenolic quantity of the seaweeds Sargassum angustifolium, Sargassum oligocystum and Sargassum boveanum. Cytotoxicity of seaweeds was tested against HT-29, HeLa and MCF-7 cell lines. Antioxidant potential of these 3 Sargassum species was also analyzed. Cytotoxicity was characterized by IC50 of human cancer cell lines using sulforhodamine assay. Antioxidant activities were evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazil. The analysis revealed that tannins, saponins, sterols and triterpenes were the most abundant compounds in these Sargassum species while cyanogenic and cardiac glycosides were the least ones. Sargassum angustifolium had the highest content of total phenolics (0.061 mg/g) and showed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 = 0.231). Cytotoxic results showed that all species could inhibit cell growth effectively, especially MCF-7 cell line (IC50 = 67.3, 56.9, 60.4 for S. oligocystum, S. angustifolium and S. boveanum respectively). Considerable phytochemicals and moderate cytotoxic activity of S. angustifolium, S. oligocystum and S. boveanum make them appropriate candidate for further studies and identification of their bioactive principles. PMID:27499794

  13. Phytochemical and biological evaluation of some Sargassum species from Persian Gulf.

    PubMed

    Mehdinezhad, Negin; Ghannadi, Alireza; Yegdaneh, Afsaneh

    2016-01-01

    Sea algae are widely consumed in the world. There are several seaweeds including brown algae which are authorized for human consumption. These plants contain important phytochemical constituents and have various potential biological activities. The present study investigated the presence of phytochemical constituents and total phenolic quantity of the seaweeds Sargassum angustifolium, Sargassum oligocystum and Sargassum boveanum. Cytotoxicity of seaweeds was tested against HT-29, HeLa and MCF-7 cell lines. Antioxidant potential of these 3 Sargassum species was also analyzed. Cytotoxicity was characterized by IC50 of human cancer cell lines using sulforhodamine assay. Antioxidant activities were evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazil. The analysis revealed that tannins, saponins, sterols and triterpenes were the most abundant compounds in these Sargassum species while cyanogenic and cardiac glycosides were the least ones. Sargassum angustifolium had the highest content of total phenolics (0.061 mg/g) and showed the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 = 0.231). Cytotoxic results showed that all species could inhibit cell growth effectively, especially MCF-7 cell line (IC50 = 67.3, 56.9, 60.4 for S. oligocystum, S. angustifolium and S. boveanum respectively). Considerable phytochemicals and moderate cytotoxic activity of S. angustifolium, S. oligocystum and S. boveanum make them appropriate candidate for further studies and identification of their bioactive principles.

  14. [Quantitative Color Vision Defect Evaluation - Lanthony Test and its Modified Interpretation].

    PubMed

    Veselý, P; Urbánek, D; Synek, S; Hanák, L

    2016-01-01

    Our aim was to develop quick and exact instrument for examination of color vision defects (CVD). We used Lanthony saturated and desaturated test. Data were evaluated according the Vingrys and King-Smith study. We had together 123 eyes of 86 patients. From all subjects we received these average values: AA 44.32 (min -87.13, max 80.64), TES 13.36 (min 8.84, max 30.30), SI 1.97 (min 1.22, max 5.69) and CI 1.66 (min 1.0, max 3.94). At the base of counting algorithm and average values form saturated and desaturated test we revealed 25 (29 %) patients with CVD. Twelve patients (14 %) classified as CVD+ had dichromacy and all had inborn CVD. Eight patients (9 %) from this group had deutranopia and four patient (5 %) protanopia. Anomaly trichromacy we revealed in thirteen patients (15 %). Eight (9 %) of these patients had inborn CVD. Six (7 %) of these patients had protanomalia, one (1 %) had deuteranomalia and one tritanomalia. We established and specified TES, CI and SI critical values, which was used to dividing patients into specific groups. Lanthony test, color vision defect, index of selectivity, index of confusion, total error score.

  15. 40 CFR 180.569 - Forchlorfenuron; tolerances for residues.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... residues of the plant growth regulator forchlorfenuron; N-(2-chloro-4-pyridinyl)-N′phenyl urea in or on the....06 Kiwifruit 0.04 (2) Time-limited tolerances are established for residues of the plant growth...

  16. 40 CFR 180.569 - Forchlorfenuron; tolerances for residues.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... residues of the plant growth regulator forchlorfenuron; N-(2-chloro-4-pyridinyl)-N′phenyl urea in or on the....06 Kiwifruit 0.04 (2) Time-limited tolerances are established for residues of the plant growth...

  17. 40 CFR 180.569 - Forchlorfenuron; tolerances for residues.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... residues of the plant growth regulator forchlorfenuron; N-(2-chloro-4-pyridinyl)-N′phenyl urea in or on the....06 Kiwifruit 0.04 (2) Time-limited tolerances are established for residues of the plant growth...

  18. 40 CFR 180.569 - Forchlorfenuron; tolerances for residues.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... residues of the plant growth regulator forchlorfenuron; N-(2-chloro-4-pyridinyl)-N′phenyl urea in or on the....06 Kiwifruit 0.04 (2) Time-limited tolerances are established for residues of the plant growth...

  19. A Herschel resolved far-infrared dust ring around HD 207129

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Marshall, J. P.; Löhne, T.; Montesinos, B.; Krivov, A. V.; Eiroa, C.; Absil, O.; Bryden, G.; Maldonado, J.; Mora, A.; Sanz-Forcada, J.; Ardila, D.; Augereau, J.-Ch.; Bayo, A.; Del Burgo, C.; Danchi, W.; Ertel, S.; Fedele, D.; Fridlund, M.; Lebreton, J.; González-García, B. M.; Liseau, R.; Meeus, G.; Müller, S.; Pilbratt, G. L.; Roberge, A.; Stapelfeldt, K.; Thébault, P.; White, G. J.; Wolf, S.

    2011-05-01

    Context. Dusty debris discs around main sequence stars are thought to be the result of continuous collisional grinding of planetesimals in the system. The majority of these systems are unresolved and analysis of the dust properties is limited by the lack of information regarding the dust location. Aims: The Herschel DUNES key program is observing 133 nearby, Sun-like stars (<20 pc, FGK spectral type) in a volume limited survey to constrain the absolute incidence of cold dust around these stars by detection of far infrared excess emission at flux levels comparable to the Edgeworth-Kuiper belt (EKB). Methods: We have observed the Sun-like star HD 207129 with Herschel PACS and SPIRE. In all three PACS bands we resolve a ring-like structure consistent with scattered light observations. Using α Boötis as a reference point spread function (PSF), we deconvolved the images, clearly resolving the inner gap in the disc at both 70 and 100 μm. Results: We have resolved the dust-producing planetesimal belt of a debris disc at 100 μm for the first time. We measure the radial profile and fractional luminosity of the disc, and compare the values to those of discs around stars of similar age and/or spectral type, placing this disc in context of other resolved discs observed by Herschel/DUNES. Herschel is an ESA space observatory with science instruments provided by European-led Principal Investigator consortia and with important participation from NASA.

  20. Psychosocial factors and psychological well-being: a study from a nationally representative sample of Korean workers.

    PubMed

    Lee, Bum-Joon; Lamichhane, Dirga Kumar; Jung, Dal-Young; Moon, So-Hyun; Kim, Seong-Jin; Kim, Hwan-Cheol

    2016-06-10

    This study was conducted to examine how each psychosocial factor on working conditions is related to a worker's well-being. Data from the 2011 Korean Working Conditions Survey were analyzed for 33,569 employed workers aged ≥15 years. Well-being was evaluated through the WHO-5 questionnaire and variables about occupational psychosocial factors were classified into eight categories. The prevalence ratios were estimated using Poisson regression model. Overall, 44.3% of men and 57.4% of women were in a low well-being group. In a univariate analysis, most of the psychosocial factors on working conditions are significantly related with a worker's low well-being, except for insufficient job autonomy in both genders and job insecurity for males only. After adjusting for sociodemographic and structural factors on working conditions, job dissatisfaction, lack of reward, lack of social support, violence and discrimination at work still showed a statistically significant association with a worker's low well-being for both genders. We found that psychosocial working conditions were associated with the workers' well-being.

  1. Psychosocial factors and psychological well-being: a study from a nationally representative sample of Korean workers

    PubMed Central

    LEE, Bum-Joon; LAMICHHANE, Dirga Kumar; JUNG, Dal-Young; MOON, So-Hyun; KIM, Seong-Jin; KIM, Hwan-Cheol

    2015-01-01

    This study was conducted to examine how each psychosocial factor on working conditions is related to a worker’s well-being. Data from the 2011 Korean Working Conditions Survey were analyzed for 33,569 employed workers aged ≥15 years. Well-being was evaluated through the WHO-5 questionnaire and variables about occupational psychosocial factors were classified into eight categories. The prevalence ratios were estimated using Poisson regression model. Overall, 44.3% of men and 57.4% of women were in a low well-being group. In a univariate analysis, most of the psychosocial factors on working conditions are significantly related with a worker’s low well-being, except for insufficient job autonomy in both genders and job insecurity for males only. After adjusting for sociodemographic and structural factors on working conditions, job dissatisfaction, lack of reward, lack of social support, violence and discrimination at work still showed a statistically significant association with a worker’s low well-being for both genders. We found that psychosocial working conditions were associated with the workers’ well-being. PMID:26726830

  2. Investigating Cognitive Rhythms as a New Modality for Continuous Authentication

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-12-01

    authorship studies. One of the major accomplishments of this effort is the development and subsequent validation of software codes and methods that are...collection effort was financed by Co-PI Dr. Vir Phoha’s various grants. 3.1.1 Subject Population Characteristics  Gender : Male (569), female (427...participant: a) typing experience, b) age, c) gender , d) right- or left-handed, e) native language, f) business language, and g) average number of hours a

  3. 16 CFR 1207.1 - Scope, purpose, and findings.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-01-01

    ... Fifth Circuit set aside portions of that standard (Aqua Slide ‘N’ Drive Corporation v. CPSC, 569 F.2d... materials of manufacture or structural characteristics of the slides. It is estimated that 350,000 of these...

  4. 16 CFR 1207.1 - Scope, purpose, and findings.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-01-01

    ... Fifth Circuit set aside portions of that standard (Aqua Slide ‘N’ Drive Corporation v. CPSC, 569 F.2d... materials of manufacture or structural characteristics of the slides. It is estimated that 350,000 of these...

  5. 16 CFR § 1207.1 - Scope, purpose, and findings.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-01-01

    .... CPSC, 569 F.2d 831 (5th Cir. 1978)). On December 18, 1978, the Commission published revisions to the..., regardless of the materials of manufacture or structural characteristics of the slides. It is estimated that...

  6. 16 CFR 1207.1 - Scope, purpose, and findings.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-01-01

    ... Fifth Circuit set aside portions of that standard (Aqua Slide ‘N’ Drive Corporation v. CPSC, 569 F.2d... materials of manufacture or structural characteristics of the slides. It is estimated that 350,000 of these...

  7. Osmoregulatory physiology and rapid evolution of salinity tolerance in threespine stickleback recently introduced to fresh water

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Divino, Jeffrey N; Monette, Michelle Y.; McCormick, Stephen; Yancey, Paul H.; Flannery, Kyle G.; Bell, Michael A.; Rollins, Jennifer L.; von Hippel, Frank A.; Schultz, Eric T.

    2016-01-01

    Conclusion: Enhanced freshwater tolerance has evolved rapidly in recently landlocked stickleback compared with their anadromous ancestors (0.569 haldanes), but the former have retained ancestral seawater-osmoregulatory function.

  8. Quasi-two-dimensional Bose-Einstein condensation of lattice bosons in the spin-1/2 XXZ ferromagnet K2CuF4

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hirata, Satoshi; Kurita, Nobuyuki; Yamada, Motoki; Tanaka, Hidekazu

    2017-05-01

    K2CuF4 is magnetically described as a spin-1/2 , quasi-two-dimensional (2D), square-lattice XXZ ferromagnet with weak easy-plane anisotropy. The magnetic ordering for an applied magnetic field H parallel to the c axis is equivalent to the Bose-Einstein condensation (BEC) of lattice bosons, as discussed by Matsubara and Matsuda [T. Matsubara and H. Matsuda, Prog. Theor. Phys. 16, 569 (1956), 10.1143/PTP.16.569]. Magnetization and specific-heat measurements were performed to obtain the temperature versus magnetic field phase diagram for H ∥c . The phase boundary between polarized and ordered phases was found to be expressed by the power law Hc(T ) -Hc(0 ) ∝Tϕ with exponent ϕ ≈1.0 in a wide temperature range, in agreement with the theory of quasi-2D BEC.

  9. Foot-controlled robotic-enabled endoscope holder for endoscopic sinus surgery: A cadaveric feasibility study.

    PubMed

    Chan, Jason Y K; Leung, Iris; Navarro-Alarcon, David; Lin, Weiyang; Li, Peng; Lee, Dennis L Y; Liu, Yun-hui; Tong, Michael C F

    2016-03-01

    To evaluate the feasibility of a unique prototype foot-controlled robotic-enabled endoscope holder (FREE) in functional endoscopic sinus surgery. Cadaveric study. Using human cadavers, we investigated the feasibility, advantages, and disadvantages of the robotic endoscope holder in performing endoscopic sinus surgery with two hands in five cadaver heads, mimicking a single nostril three-handed technique. The FREE robot is relatively easy to use. Setup was quick, taking less than 3 minutes from docking the robot at the head of the bed to visualizing the middle meatus. The unit is also relatively small, takes up little space, and currently has four degrees of freedom. The learning curve for using the foot control was short. The use of both hands was not hindered by the presence of the endoscope in the nasal cavity. The tremor filtration also aided in the smooth movement of the endoscope, with minimal collisions. The FREE endoscope holder in an ex-vivo cadaver test corroborated the feasibility of the robotic prototype, which allows for a two-handed approach to surgery equal to a single nostril three-handed technique without the holder that may reduce operating time. Further studies will be needed to evaluate its safety profile and use in other areas of endoscopic surgery. NA. Laryngoscope, 126:566-569, 2016. © 2015 The American Laryngological, Rhinological and Otological Society, Inc.

  10. Studies on dhal recovery from pre-treated pigeon pea ( Cajanus cajan L .) cultivars.

    PubMed

    Hiregoudar, Sharanagouda; Sandeep, T N; Nidoni, Udaykumar; Shrestha, Bijay; Meda, Venkatesh

    2014-05-01

    Dhal recovery from three popular varieties of North Karnataka was studied using CFTRI mini dhal mill with five different treatments at three different levels. It was observed that Gulyal variety treated with mustard oil recorded maximum hulling efficiency (79.4%) and finished product (68.8%) when compared to a Maruti and Asha variety. However, acetic acid treatment recorded higher hulling efficiency (76.5%) for Maruti followed by Asha (56.9%). The plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) treatment yielded minimum hulling efficiency and finished product recovery for all the varieties.

  11. An Alternate Approach to Axiomatizations of the Von Neumann/Morgenstern Characteristic Function.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1987-03-01

    I ~Nh/N OROENSTERN C.. CU) STANFORD UNIY CA INST FOR I MATHEMTICAL STUDIES IN THE SOCIAL S.. U0CASFEA A LEWIS ET AL. MAR 87 TR-569 F/0 12/3 M 1111...Research NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION GRANT DMS-84-10456 THE ECONOMICS SERIES INSTITUTE FOR MATHEMATICAL STUDIES IN THE SOCIAL SCIENCES Fourth Floor, Encina...characteristic function of a game - that gives us an intuitive idea of the value of a coalition - is of central importance in the theory of N- person

  12. Seroprevalence and some correlates of Helicobacter pylori at adult ages in Gülveren Health District, Ankara, Turkey.

    PubMed Central

    Akin, L.; Tezcan, S.; Hascelik, G.; Cakir, B.

    2004-01-01

    The purpose of the study was to detect the frequency and distribution of Helicobacter pylori in the Gülveren Health Centre service area among residents aged between 25 and 64 years and to evaluate the relation of H. pylori infections with general health status, socioeconomic status, and some lifestyle habits. The study included a representative sample of Gülveren Health Centre residents, aged between 25 and 64 years. A stratified random sample of 1672 individuals was selected for study purposes out of 10,569 residents, stratified by age and gender. A standardized questionnaire was completed for all study participants using a face-to-face interview and all participants were invited to the local health centre for a thorough physical examination and blood tests. The overall prevalence of H. pylori was found to be 77.5 % among individuals aged between 25 and 64 years. The frequency of H. pylori was higher among individuals with low socioeconomic status; those who migrated to Ankara after the age of 20 years; members of large families (household size of 4 or above); non-alcohol drinkers; and those who regularly drink tea. PMID:15473147

  13. Titanium vs. polyetheretherketone (PEEK) interbody fusion: Meta-analysis and review of the literature.

    PubMed

    Seaman, Scott; Kerezoudis, Panagiotis; Bydon, Mohamad; Torner, James C; Hitchon, Patrick W

    2017-10-01

    Spinal interbody fusion is a standard and accepted method for spinal fusion. Interbody fusion devices include titanium (Ti) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cages with distinct biomechanical properties. Titanium and PEEK cages have been evaluated in the cervical and lumbar spine, with conflicting results in bony fusion and subsidence. Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we reviewed the available literature evaluating Ti and PEEK cages to assess subsidence and fusion rates. Six studies were included in the analysis, 3 of which were class IV evidence, 2 were class III, and 1 was class II. A total of 410 patients (Ti-228, PEEK-182) and 587 levels (Ti-327, PEEK-260) were studied. Pooled mean age was 50.8years in the Ti group, and 53.1years in the PEEK group. Anterior cervical discectomy was performed in 4 studies (395 levels) and transforaminal interbody fusion in 2 studies (192 levels). No statistically significant difference was found between groups with fusion (OR 1.16, 95% C.I 0.59-2.89, p=0.686, I 2 =49.7%) but there was a statistically significant the rate of subsidence with titanium (OR 3.59, 95% C.I 1.28-10.07, p=0.015, I 2 =56.9%) at last follow-up. Titanium and PEEK cages are associated with a similar rate of fusion, but there is an increased rate of subsidence with titanium cage. Future prospective randomized controlled trials are needed to further evaluate these cages using surgical and patient-reported outcomes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  14. Genomic variation at the tips of the adaptive radiation of Darwin's finches.

    PubMed

    Chaves, Jaime A; Cooper, Elizabeth A; Hendry, Andrew P; Podos, Jeffrey; De León, Luis F; Raeymaekers, Joost A M; MacMillan, W Owen; Uy, J Albert C

    2016-11-01

    Adaptive radiation unfolds as selection acts on the genetic variation underlying functional traits. The nature of this variation can be revealed by studying the tips of an ongoing adaptive radiation. We studied genomic variation at the tips of the Darwin's finch radiation; specifically focusing on polymorphism within, and variation among, three sympatric species of the genus Geospiza. Using restriction site-associated DNA (RAD-seq), we characterized 32 569 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), from which 11 outlier SNPs for beak and body size were uncovered by a genomewide association study (GWAS). Principal component analysis revealed that these 11 SNPs formed four statistically linked groups. Stepwise regression then revealed that the first PC score, which included 6 of the 11 top SNPs, explained over 80% of the variation in beak size, suggesting that selection on these traits influences multiple correlated loci. The two SNPs most strongly associated with beak size were near genes associated with beak morphology across deeper branches of the radiation: delta-like 1 homologue (DLK1) and high-mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2). Our results suggest that (i) key adaptive traits are associated with a small fraction of the genome (11 of 32 569 SNPs), (ii) SNPs linked to the candidate genes are dispersed throughout the genome (on several chromosomes), and (iii) micro- and macro-evolutionary variation (roots and tips of the radiation) involve some shared and some unique genomic regions. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

  15. 7 CFR 56.9 - OMB control number.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-01-01

    ... Regulations of the Department of Agriculture (Continued) AGRICULTURAL MARKETING SERVICE (Standards, Inspections, Marketing Practices), DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (CONTINUED) REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS UNDER THE AGRICULTURAL MARKETING ACT OF 1946 AND THE EGG PRODUCTS INSPECTION ACT (CONTINUED) VOLUNTARY GRADING OF SHELL...

  16. Pretreated Starch Solutions for Low Environmental Impact Aircraft Deicing

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-09-01

    modified monomeric organic molecules, have been the focus of recent study. Several organic acids and keto acids, such as succinate and acetate, have...1992), but the authors noted low economic feasibility without additional recovered products. Ganjyal et al. (2007) produced levulinate, a keto acid...534 -23.4 25 -22.7 52 569 -25.3 5 -25.8 104 585 -28.0 Sigma Aldrich DARCO 12-20 Mesh 0 -28.0 143 634 -28.0 50 -26.2 100 626 -27.4 Calgon F-300 9

  17. Disseminated Tumor Cells in Prostate Cancer Patients after Radical Prostatectomy and without Evidence of Disease Predicts Biochemical Recurrence

    PubMed Central

    Morgan, Todd M.; Lange, Paul H.; Porter, Michael P.; Lin, Daniel W.; Ellis, William J.; Gallaher, Ian S.; Vessella, Robert L.

    2011-01-01

    Purpose Men with apparently localized prostate cancer often relapse years after radical prostatectomy (RP). We sought to determine if epithelial-like cells identified from bone marrow (BM) in patients after RP (commonly called disseminated tumor cells, DTC) were associated with biochemical recurrence (BR). Experimental Design We obtained BM aspirates from 569 men prior to RP and from 34 healthy men with PSA<2.5 ng/ml to establish a comparison group. Additionally, an analytic cohort consisting of 98 patients after RP with no evidence of disease (NED) was established to evaluate the relationship between DTC and BR. Epithelial cells in the BM were detected by magnetic bead enrichment with antibodies to CD45 and CD61 (negative selection) followed by antibodies to human epithelial antigen (positive selection) and confirmation with FITC-labeled anti-BerEP4 antibody. Results DTC were present in 72% (408/569) of patients prior to RP. There was no correlation with pathologic stage, Gleason grade, or pre-operative PSA. Three of 34 controls (8.8%) had DTC present. In patients NED post-RP, DTC were present in 56/98 (57%). DTC were detected in 12/14 (86%) NED patients post-RP who subsequently suffered BR. Presence of DTC in NED patients was an independent predictor of recurrence (HR 6.9, CI 1.03–45.9). Conclusions Approximately 70% of men undergoing RP had DTC detected in their BM prior to surgery, suggesting that these cells escape early in the disease. Though pre-operative DTC status does not correlate with pathologic risk factors, persistence of DTC after RP in NED patients was an independent predictor of recurrence. PMID:19147774

  18. Atomic weights of the elements 2013 (IUPAC Technical Report)

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Meija, Juris; Coplen, Tyler B.; Berglund, Michael; Brand, Willi A.; De Bièvre, Paul; Gröning, Manfred; Holden, Norman E.; Irrgeher, Johanna; Loss, Robert D.; Walczyk, Thomas; Prohaska, Thomas

    2016-01-01

    The biennial review of atomic-weight determinations and other cognate data has resulted in changes for the standard atomic weights of 19 elements. The standard atomic weights of four elements have been revised based on recent determinations of isotopic abundances in natural terrestrial materials:cadmium to 112.414(4) from 112.411(8),molybdenum to 95.95(1) from 95.96(2),selenium to 78.971(8) from 78.96(3), andthorium to 232.0377(4) from 232.038 06(2). The Commission on Isotopic Abundances and Atomic Weights (ciaaw.org) also revised the standard atomic weights of fifteen elements based on the 2012 Atomic Mass Evaluation:aluminium (aluminum) to 26.981 5385(7) from 26.981 5386(8),arsenic to 74.921 595(6) from 74.921 60(2),beryllium to 9.012 1831(5) from 9.012 182(3),caesium (cesium) to 132.905 451 96(6) from 132.905 4519(2),cobalt to 58.933 194(4) from 58.933 195(5),fluorine to 18.998 403 163(6) from 18.998 4032(5),gold to 196.966 569(5) from 196.966 569(4),holmium to 164.930 33(2) from 164.930 32(2),manganese to 54.938 044(3) from 54.938 045(5),niobium to 92.906 37(2) from 92.906 38(2),phosphorus to 30.973 761 998(5) from 30.973 762(2),praseodymium to 140.907 66(2) from 140.907 65(2),scandium to 44.955 908(5) from 44.955 912(6),thulium to 168.934 22(2) from 168.934 21(2), andyttrium to 88.905 84(2) from 88.905 85(2). The Commission also recommends the standard value for the natural terrestrial uranium isotope ratio, N(238U)/N(235U)=137.8(1).

  19. Quality of reporting in oncology studies: A systematic analysis of literature reviews and prospects.

    PubMed

    Rivoirard, Romain; Bourmaud, Aurélie; Oriol, Mathieu; Tinquaut, Fabien; Méry, Benoîte; Langrand-Escure, Julien; Vallard, Alexis; Fournel, Pierre; Magné, Nicolas; Chauvin, Franck

    2017-04-01

    The present review gives an overview of systematic reviews published in peer reviewed Journals analysing quality of reporting in oncology studies. PUBMED and Cochrane library were searched to identify systematic reviews assessing quality of reporting for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies (OBS). Recommendations and primary endpoints used to assess the quality of reporting were described. Intrinsic quality of reporting was analyzed using an Overall Quality Score for literature Reviews (OQSR). Main evaluation themes were overall quality of reporting (20/58) and reporting of Health-Related Quality Of Life (HRQOL) in RCTs (7/58). Reporting recommendations used were not detailed in 56.9% of reviews. Insufficient reporting for the methodological description (randomization, blinding details, and allocation concealment) and the rationale for using specific measure of HRQOL were highlighted. OQSR was significantly higher for reviews published between 2010 and 2014 (after the PRISMA Publication), as compared to those published between 1996-2009 (median OQSR 10 (10-11) versus median OQSR 9 (6-10) respectively, p=0.0053). Intrinsic quality of reporting is satisfactory and has been improved in the last years. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  20. TREATMENT AND PRODUCT RECOVERY: SUPERCRITICAL WATER OXIDATION OF NYLON MONOMER MANUFACTURING WASTE

    EPA Science Inventory

    EPA GRANT NUMBER: R822721C569
    Title: Treatment and Product Recovery: Supercritical Water Oxidation of Nylon Monomer Manufacturing Waste
    Investigator: Earnest F. Gloyna
    Institution: University of Texas at Austin
    EPA Project Officer:<...

  1. An Overview Of Current Research At The Environmental Protection Agency

    EPA Science Inventory

    The purpose of this presentation is to provide an overview of the current research at the Environmental Protection Agency. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT ROGER B. YEARDLEY, JR., LAND REMEDIATION AND POLLUTION CONTROL DIVISION, 513-569-7548.

  2. Evaluation of oxidative stress status and antioxidant capacity in patients with renal cell carcinoma.

    PubMed

    Aldemir, Mustafa; Karaguzel, Ersagun; Okulu, Emrah; Gudeloglu, Ahmet; Ener, Kemal; Ozayar, Asim; Erel, Ozcan

    2015-01-01

    We evaluated and compared the serum oxidative stress and antioxidant enzymes in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and the control group. The prospective study consisted of 97 patients with RCC (Group 1) and 80 age and sex matched healthy volunteers (Group 2). Group 1 and 2 were compared concerning serum mean total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), arylesterase, total thiol, catalase (CAT), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and ceruloplasmin. Patients' mean age was 58.5 ±12.3 and 56.9 ±15.8 years, respectively, in Group 1 and 2. No statistically significant differences were detected between the groups in terms of oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant capacity measured in the serum of patients including, TOS, TAC, PON1, arylesterase, total thiol, CAT, MPO, and ceruloplasmin levels (p >0.05 for all parameters). The PON-1 value was significantly higher in patients with pT1 stage than pT3 stage (p = 0.007). The arylesterase value was significantly higher in patients with Fuhrman's nuclear grade 3 than grade 2 (p = 0.035). There was no correlation between these parameters level and Fuhrman's nuclear grade, stage, or histopathological tumor type. Our results demonstrated that evaluation of these parameters in the serum of patients with localized RCC may not be used as a marker to discriminate between patients with RCC and healthy people.

  3. Missed rib fractures on evaluation of initial chest CT for trauma patients: pattern analysis and diagnostic value of coronal multiplanar reconstruction images with multidetector row CT.

    PubMed

    Cho, S H; Sung, Y M; Kim, M S

    2012-10-01

    The objective of this study was to review the prevalence and radiological features of rib fractures missed on initial chest CT evaluation, and to examine the diagnostic value of additional coronal images in a large series of trauma patients. 130 patients who presented to an emergency room for blunt chest trauma underwent multidetector row CT of the thorax within the first hour during their stay, and had follow-up CT or bone scans as diagnostic gold standards. Images were evaluated on two separate occasions: once with axial images and once with both axial and coronal images. The detection rates of missed rib fractures were compared between readings using a non-parametric method of clustered data. In the cases of missed rib fractures, the shapes, locations and associated fractures were evaluated. 58 rib fractures were missed with axial images only and 52 were missed with both axial and coronal images (p=0.088). The most common shape of missed rib fractures was buckled (56.9%), and the anterior arc (55.2%) was most commonly involved. 21 (36.2%) missed rib fractures had combined fractures on the same ribs, and 38 (65.5%) were accompanied by fracture on neighbouring ribs. Missed rib fractures are not uncommon, and radiologists should be familiar with buckle fractures, which are frequently missed. Additional coronal imagescan be helpful in the diagnosis of rib fractures that are not seen on axial images.

  4. Education Industry, Spring 2008

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-01-01

    lost over $2 billion dollars in business revenue due to cultural misunderstandings and over 30% of the firms stated that a monolingual workforce...1 The American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language – Fourth Edition, Houghton Mifflin Company (2000): 569. 2 Ibid., 895. 3 The New

  5. Job attitudes toward the new maintenance concept of the Airway Facilities Service.

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1983-02-01

    To determine the attitudes of Airway FacilitieS (AF) personnel to the proposed New Maintenance Concept (NMC), an extensive questionnaire was mailed to all employees. Of 11,569 questionnaires distributed, 6,976 were completed and returned. Responses t...

  6. 76 FR 569 - Draft Guidance for Industry and Food and Drug Administration Staff; Establishing the Performance...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-01-05

    ... Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus aureus; Availability AGENCY: Food and Drug...-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Staphylococcus aureus (SA).'' The draft guidance document... and differentiation of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Staphylococcus aureus...

  7. ULTRASOUND-ASSISTED ORGANIC SYNTHESIS: ALCOHOL OXIDATION AND OLEFIN EPOXIDATION

    EPA Science Inventory

    Ultrasound-assisted Organic Synthesis: Alcohol Oxidation and Olefin Epoxidation

    Unnikrishnan R Pillai, Endalkachew Sahle-Demessie , Vasudevan Namboodiri, Quiming Zhao, Juluis Enriquez
    U.S. EPA , 26 W. Martin Luther King Dr. , Cincinnati, OH 45268
    Phone: 513-569-773...

  8. Preclinical Evaluation of Efficacy and Safety of an Improved Lentiviral Vector for the Treatment of β-Thalassemia and Sickle Cell Disease

    PubMed Central

    Negre, Olivier; Bartholomae, Cynthia; Beuzard, Yves; Cavazzana, Marina; Christiansen, Lauryn; Courne, Céline; Deichmann, Annette; Denaro, Maria; de Dreuzy, Edouard; Finer, Mitchell; Fronza, Raffaele; Gillet-Legrand, Béatrix; Joubert, Christophe; Kutner, Robert; Leboulch, Philippe; Maouche, Leïla; Paulard, Anaïs; Pierciey, Francis J.; Rothe, Michael; Ryu, Byoung; Schmidt, Manfred; von Kalle, Christof; Payen, Emmanuel; Veres, Gabor

    2015-01-01

    A previously published clinical trial demonstrated the benefit of autologous CD34+ cells transduced with a self-inactivating lentiviral vector (HPV569) containing an engineered β-globin gene (βA-T87Q-globin) in a subject with β-thalassemia major. This vector has been modified to increase transduction efficacy without compromising safety. In vitro analyses indicated that the changes resulted in both increased vector titers (3 to 4 fold) and increased transduction efficacy (2 to 3 fold). An in vivo study in which 58 β-thalassemic mice were transplanted with vector- or mock-transduced syngenic bone marrow cells indicated sustained therapeutic efficacy. Secondary transplantations involving 108 recipients were performed to evaluate long-term safety. The six month study showed no hematological or biochemical toxicity. Integration site (IS) profile revealed an oligo/polyclonal hematopoietic reconstitution in the primary transplants and reduced clonality in secondary transplants. Tumor cells were detected in the secondary transplant mice in all treatment groups (including the control group), without statistical differences in the tumor incidence. Immunohistochemistry and quantitative PCR demonstrated that tumor cells were not derived from transduced donor cells. This comprehensive efficacy and safety data provided the basis for initiating two clinical trials with this second generation vector (BB305) in Europe and in the USA in patients with β-thalassemia major and sickle cell disease. PMID:25429463

  9. Aggressive surgery for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer: evaluation of National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines.

    PubMed

    Yamada, Suguru; Fujii, Tsutomu; Sugimoto, Hiroyuki; Nomoto, Shuji; Takeda, Shin; Kodera, Yasuhiro; Nakao, Akimasa

    2013-08-01

    The objective of this study was to evaluate the relevance of defining borderline resectable (BR) pancreatic cancer as a distinct entity in the treatment scheme of pancreatic cancer as proposed by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. Among 375 patients with pancreatic cancer, 137 patients were deemed to have resectable disease (R) by preoperative imaging studies, whereas 96 were found to have an unresectable disease during surgery. The remaining 142 patients fulfilled the definition of BR and were further classified into 3 subgroups based on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines: portal vein invasion (PV[+]), common hepatic artery invasion (CHA[+]), and superior mesenteric artery invasion (SMA[+]). PV(+) was subdivided into types B, C, and D according to the degree of portal vein invasion. Patients in the R group had significantly better survival than those in the PV(+) group (P = 0.0038), who in turn survived significantly longer than those classified as SMA(+) (P = 0.041). Type B patients survived significantly longer than did types C and D patients (P = 0.013 and P = 0.030, respectively). In PV(+) patients, compliance with postoperative chemotherapy at 3 and 6 months was 56.9% and 44.6%, respectively, substantially inferior to patients with resectable disease (72.6% and 54.7%, respectively). The optimal treatment strategy may differ among various subgroups within the BR category.

  10. Evaluation of dietary and life-style habits of patients with gastric cancer: a case-control study in Turkey.

    PubMed

    Yassibaş, Emine; Arslan, Perihan; Yalçin, Suayib

    2012-01-01

    Gastric cancer is an important public health problem in the world and Turkey. In addition to Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), smoking, alcohol consumption and family history, certain dietary factors have been associated with its occurrence. The impact of dietary habits and life-style factors on the risk of gastric cancer in Turkey were evaluated in this study. A questionnaire was applied to 106 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma and 106 controls without cancer matched for age (range 28-85 years) and gender selected from a hospital based population. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated with logistic regression analysis. The incidence of H. pylori was 81.3% in patients. Frequent consumption of salty dishes, very salty foods like pickles, soup mixes, sausages, foods at hot temperature (ORs=3.686, 7.784, 5.264, 3.148 and 3.273 respectively) and adding salt without tasting (OR=4.198) were associated with increased gastric risk. Also heavy smoking and high amount of alcohol consumption (p=0.000) were risk factors. Frequent consumption of green vegetables, onion, garlic and dried fruits (ORs=0.569, 0.092, 0.795 and 0.041) was non- significantly associated with decreased risk. Improved dietary habits, reducing salt consumption and eradication of H. pylori infection may provide protection against gastric cancer in Turkey.

  11. Evaluation of quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays targeting Mycobacterium avium, M. intracellulare, and M. avium subspecies paratuberculosis in drinking water biofilms.

    PubMed

    Chern, Eunice C; King, Dawn; Haugland, Richard; Pfaller, Stacy

    2015-03-01

    Mycobacterium avium (MA), Mycobacterium intracellulare (MI), and Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) are difficult to culture due to their slow growing nature. A quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) method for the rapid detection of MA, MI, and MAP can be used to provide data supporting drinking water biofilms as potential sources of human exposure. The aim of this study was to characterize two qPCR assays targeting partial 16S rRNA gene sequences of MA and MI and use these assays, along with two previously reported MAP qPCR assays (IS900 and Target 251), to investigate Mycobacterium occurrence in kitchen faucet biofilms. MA and MI qPCR assays demonstrated 100% specificity and sensitivity when evaluated against 18 non-MA complex, 76 MA, and 17 MI isolates. Both assays detected approximately 1,000 cells from a diluted cell stock inoculated on a sampling swab 100% of the time. DNA analysis by qPCR indicated that 35.3, 56.9 and 11.8% of the 51 kitchen faucet biofilm samples collected contained MA, MI, and MAP, respectively. This study introduces novel qPCR assays designed to specifically detect MA and MI in biofilm. Results support the use of qPCR as an alternative to culture for detection and enumeration of MA, MI, and MAP in microbiologically complex samples.

  12. Applying Data Mining Techniques to Extract Hidden Patterns about Breast Cancer Survival in an Iranian Cohort Study.

    PubMed

    Khalkhali, Hamid Reza; Lotfnezhad Afshar, Hadi; Esnaashari, Omid; Jabbari, Nasrollah

    2016-01-01

    Breast cancer survival has been analyzed by many standard data mining algorithms. A group of these algorithms belonged to the decision tree category. Ability of the decision tree algorithms in terms of visualizing and formulating of hidden patterns among study variables were main reasons to apply an algorithm from the decision tree category in the current study that has not studied already. The classification and regression trees (CART) was applied to a breast cancer database contained information on 569 patients in 2007-2010. The measurement of Gini impurity used for categorical target variables was utilized. The classification error that is a function of tree size was measured by 10-fold cross-validation experiments. The performance of created model was evaluated by the criteria as accuracy, sensitivity and specificity. The CART model produced a decision tree with 17 nodes, 9 of which were associated with a set of rules. The rules were meaningful clinically. They showed in the if-then format that Stage was the most important variable for predicting breast cancer survival. The scores of accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were: 80.3%, 93.5% and 53%, respectively. The current study model as the first one created by the CART was able to extract useful hidden rules from a relatively small size dataset.

  13. Safety Evaluation of Parastar® Plus in Dogs and Assessment of Transferable Residue of Fipronil and Cyphenothrin from Dogs to Humans

    PubMed Central

    Case, Katharine M.; Vega, Natalia M.; Gupta, Ramesh C.; Lasher, Michelle A.; Canerdy, Terry D.

    2016-01-01

    Dogs are easily infested with fleas, ticks, and other ectoparasites serving as vectors for transmitting bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases. Therefore, the use of ectoparasiticides is inevitable and important. The present investigation was undertaken with two specific objectives: one, to evaluate the safety of fipronil and cyphenothrin in dogs after topical application of Parastar® Plus, and two, to determine the transferable residue of these insecticides from dogs to humans. Six healthy, adult dogs (medium length hair, weighing between 20.5 and 27.3 kg) received topical application of Parastar® Plus (2.68 mL; fipronil, 9.8%, and cyphenothrin, 5.2%) on the back between the shoulder blades. At predetermined intervals, dogs were given a full physical exam, and residues of fipronil and cyphenothrin were determined in dog blood and cotton glove extracts using GC/MS. Fipronil and cyphenothrin peaks eluted at 7.453 and 9.913 min, correspondingly, and the compounds were confirmed based on characteristic ions. At no time was fipronil or cyphenothrin residue detected in blood samples. In glove extracts, residues of fipronil and cyphenothrin were maximally present at 24-h posttreatment (43.84 ± 5.69 and 59.26 ± 8.97 ppm, respectively). By 48 h, the residue levels sharply declined (16.89 ± 2.82 and 17.98 ± 2.07 ppm, respectively). The insecticides’ residues were detected in insignificant amounts after 1 week (5.69 ± 2.16 and 10.00 ± 1.51 ppm, respectively), and only in trace amounts after 2 weeks. At no time did any dog show side effects, except itching at the site of Parastar® Plus application. The findings suggest that Parastar® Plus was safe for dogs, and transferable residues of fipronil and cyphenothrin were minimal, posing very little or no health concern to pet owners or veterinary personnel. Of course, veterinary personnel, who handle many dogs daily, may require proper protection to avoid cumulative exposure. PMID:27747219

  14. 77 FR 75622 - Notice of Intent to Grant an Exclusive License of the United States; Patent No. 6,569,807

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-12-21

    .... The microsclerotia are composed of melanaized fungal hyphae and can be dried to a moisture content of... microsclerotia germinate hyphally within 24 hours and sprorogenically within 72 hours. The hyphae and the spores...

  15. The Complexity of Chinese Pedagogic Discourse

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Cheng, Liang; Xu, Nan

    2011-01-01

    This is one of the commentaries on Wu's "Interpretation, autonomy, and transformation: Chinese pedagogic discourse in a cross-cultural perspective" ("JCS", 43(5), 569-590). It highlights the paper's demystification of Western pedagogic discourse and recovery of the meaning of Chinese traditional pedagogic discourse as a…

  16. [Antibacterial and anti-hemolysin activities of tea catechins and their structural relatives].

    PubMed

    Toda, M; Okubo, S; Ikigai, H; Shimamura, T

    1990-03-01

    Among catechins tested, (-)epigallocatechin (EGC), (-)epicatechin gallate (ECg), (-) epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg) inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio cholerae O1 classical Inaba 569B and El Tor Inaba V86. S. aureus was more sensitive than V. cholerae O1 to these compounds. EGCg showed also a bactericidal activity against V. cholerae O1 569B. Pyrogallol showed a stronger antibacterial activity against S. aureus and V. cholerae O1 than tannic and gallic acid. Rutin or caffein had no effect on them. ECg and EGCg showed the most potent anti-hemolysin activity against S. aureus alpha-toxin, Vibrio parahaemolyticus thermostable direct hemolysin (Vp-TDH) and cholera hemolysin. Among catechin relatives, only tannic acid had a potent anti-hemolysin activity against alpha-toxin. These results suggest that the catechol and pyrogallol groups are responsible for the antibacterial and bactericidal activities, while the conformation of catechins might play an important role in the anti-hemolysin activity.

  17. The impact of sporotrichosis in HIV-infected patients: a systematic review.

    PubMed

    Moreira, José A S; Freitas, Dayvison F S; Lamas, Cristiane C

    2015-06-01

    Sporotrichosis is a fungal infection of man and animals caused by Sporothrix complex. It usually presents as a lymphocutaneous form, but disseminated disease may occur. Given the paucity of data about HIV/AIDS and sporotrichosis co-infection, a systematic review of reported cases of HIV-associated sporotrichosis found via Pubmed (1984-2013) was done. A total of 39 papers were included, and 58 patients' data analyzed. Thirty-three (56.9 %) cases were from Brazil and 18 (31 %) from the USA. Patients' mean age was 37.8 ± 10.4 years; males predominated (84.5 %). The median CD4(+) cell count was 97 cells/mm(3). The most common clinical forms were disseminated and disseminated cutaneous with 33 (56.9 %) and 10 (17.5 %) patients, respectively. There was a correlation between CD4(+) count and clinical categories (p = 0.002). Mortality was 30 % and there was a correlation between central nervous system involvement and death (p < 0.001).

  18. Spiramycin/cotrimoxazole versus pyrimethamine/sulfonamide and spiramycin alone for the treatment of toxoplasmosis in pregnancy.

    PubMed

    Valentini, P; Buonsenso, D; Barone, G; Serranti, D; Calzedda, R; Ceccarelli, M; Speziale, D; Ricci, R; Masini, L

    2015-02-01

    To compare the effectiviness of spiramycin/cotrimoxazole (Sp/C) versus pyrimethamine/sulfonamide (Pyr/Sul) and spiramycin alone (Spy) on mother-to-child transmission of toxoplasmosis infection in pregnancy. Retrospective study of pregnant women evaluated for suspected toxoplasmosis between 1992 and 2011. A total of 120 mothers and their 123 newborns were included. Prenatal treatment consisted of spiramycin in 43 mothers (35%), spiramycin/cotrimoxazole in 70 (56.9%) and pyrimethamine/sulfonamide in 10 (8.1%). A trend toward reduction in toxoplasmosis transmission was found when Sp/C was compared with Pyr/Sul and particularly with Spy alone (P=0.014). In particular, Spy increased the risk of congenital infection when compared with Sp/C (odds ratio (OR) 4.368; 95% CI: 1.253 to 15.219), but there was no significant reduction when Sp/C was compared with Pyr/Sul (OR 1.83; 95% CI: 0.184 to 18.274). The treatment based on Sp/C has significant efficacy in reducing maternal-fetal transmission of Toxoplasma gondii when compared with Pyr/Sul and particularly to Spy. Randomized controlled trials would be required.

  19. Growth and characterization of Methyl 2-amino-5-bromobenzoate crystal for NLO applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Parthasarathy, M.; Gopalakrishnan, R.

    2012-11-01

    Good quality single crystal of organic Methyl 2-amino-5-bromobenzoate (M2A5B) was grown using slow evaporation solution growth technique. The grown crystal was confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction. The functional groups and vibrational frequencies were identified using FT-IR and FT-Raman spectral analyses. The presence of hydrogen and carbon atoms in the grown sample was confirmed with proton and carbon NMR spectral studies. The optical energy band gap of the title compound is found to be 2.7 eV from the optical transmission spectra. The refractive indices nx, ny, and nz were found to be 1.569, 1.587 and 1.600, respectively using Brewster's angle method. The melting point of the material obtained with melting point apparatus is 74 °C. Thermal stability of the grown crystal was studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). The mechanical behaviour of the grown crystal was analyzed with Vicker's microhardness tester. The particle size dependent second harmonic generation efficiency for M2A5B was evaluated by Kurtz-Perry powder method using Nd:YAG laser, which established the existence of phase matching.

  20. Influence of Fermentation and Drying Materials on the Contamination of Cocoa Beans by Ochratoxin A

    PubMed Central

    Dano, Sébastien Djédjé; Manda, Pierre; Dembélé, Ardjourma; Abla, Ange Marie-Joseph Kouassi; Bibaud, Joel Henri; Gouet, Julien Zroh; Sika, Charles Bruno Ze Maria

    2013-01-01

    Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced mainly by species of Aspergillus and Penicillium. Contamination of food with OTA is a major consumer health hazard. In Côte d’Ivoire, preventing OTA contamination has been the subject of extensive study. The current study was conducted to evaluate the influence of fermentation and drying materials on the OTA content in cocoa. For each test, 7000 intact cocoa pods were collected, split open to remove the beans, fermented using 1 of 3 different materials, sun-dried on 1 of 3 different platform types and stored for 30 days. A total of 22 samples were collected at each stage of post-harvesting operations. The OTA content in the extracted samples was then quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography. OTA was detected in beans at all stages of post-harvesting operations at varying levels: pod-opening (0.025 ± 0.02 mg/kg), fermentation (0.275 ± 0.2 mg/kg), drying (0.569 ± 0.015 mg/kg), and storage (0.558 ± 0.04 mg/kg). No significant relationships between the detected OTA level and the materials used in the fermentation and drying of cocoa were observed. PMID:24287569

  1. Quantifying Trophic and Demographic Rates of Plankton-Rich Layers in East Sound, Orcas Island, Washington

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-01-01

    are used, two independent methods to measure primary productivity and the dilution method to measure heterotrophic protists grazing rate. In...dinoflagellates, diatoms, and other protist plankton. Limnology and Oceanography 45: 569-579 Menden-Deuer S, EJ Lessard & J Satterberg. 2001

  2. Quantifying Trophic and Demographic Rates of Plankton-Rich Layers in East Sound, Orcas Island, Washington

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-09-30

    different methods are used, two independent methods to measure primary productivity and the dilution method to measure heterotrophic protists grazing...relationships for dinoflagellates, diatoms, and other protist plankton. Limnology and Oceanography 45: 569-579 Menden-Deuer S, EJ Lessard & J

  3. Quantifying Trophic and Demographic Rates of Plankton-Rich Layers in East Sound, Orcas Island, Washington

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-01-01

    ratios (Welschmeyer & Lorenzen, 1984), heterotrophic protist grazing rates (Montagnes & Lessard, 1999), and cellular carbon content (Putt & Stoecker 1989...dinoflagellates, diatoms, and other protist plankton. Limnology and Oceanography 45: 569-579 Menden-Deuer S, EJ Lessard & J Satterberg. 2001. Effect of

  4. Prevalence survey on lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis, Eucoleus aerophilus) infections of wild red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in central Germany.

    PubMed

    Schug, Kathrin; Krämer, Friederike; Schaper, Roland; Hirzmann, Jörg; Failing, Klaus; Hermosilla, Carlos; Taubert, Anja

    2018-02-06

    Angiostrongylus vasorum, Crenosoma vulpis and Eucoleus aerophilus are a source of increasing concern, potentially causing significant pulmonary and severe cardiac/systemic diseases in domestic dogs and wild canids, especially red foxes (Vulpes vulpes). To investigate the prevalence and geographical distribution of these parasites in central Germany, a total of 569 foxes were examined by dissection. Pluck (heart and lung) and faecal samples of red foxes were collected from three regions of Germany. Lungs, hearts and adjacent vessels were processed for adult nematode detection. Parasitological diagnoses of faecal samples were performed by SAF technique, Giardia- and Cryptosporidium-Coproantigen-ELISAs and by a duplex copro-PCR for the detection of A. vasorum and C. vulpis DNA. Foxes originated from three Federal States of central Germany: Thuringia (n = 359); Rhineland-Palatinate (n = 121) and Hesse (n = 89). High prevalences for all three nematodes were detected, with E. aerophilus (69.4%; 395/569), followed by C. vulpis (32.3%; 184/569) and A. vasorum (14.1%; 80/569). In case of A. vasorum, prevalences varied significantly between Federal States, with the highest prevalence of 27.3% in Rhineland-Palatinate, followed by 19.1% and 8.4% in Hesse and Thuringia, respectively. The presence of A. vasorum in fox populations showed a rather patchy distribution, increasing from north-eastern to south-western regions. Analyses on C. vulpis revealed prevalences of 35.1%, 30.3% and 25.6% (Thuringia, Hesse and Rhineland-Palatinate, respectively). The most prevalent lungworm nematode was E. aerophilus, with a prevalence of 75.2%, 71.9% and 66.9% (Rhineland-Palatinate, Hesse and Thuringia, respectively) and an almost area-wide equal distribution. Significant differences for single parasite prevalences within geographical regions of the Federal States could be detected whilst no correlation between age or gender and parasite occurrence was estimated. Weak seasonality for the winter months for A. vasorum, stronger correlation to spring and late summer for C. vulpis and no correlation to any season for E. aerophilus were detected. The method of dissection revealed a significantly higher sensitivity for C. vulpis when compared with the results of the duplex copro-PCR. A sylvatic cycle was confirmed for all three lungworm nematodes in the examined area. The prevalences for all three lungworm nematodes are some of the highest recorded so far in German foxes. The data suggest that A. vasorum might be spreading from south-western to north-eastern parts of Germany.

  5. Nanostructured lipid carriers as novel ophthalmic delivery system for mangiferin: improving in vivo ocular bioavailability.

    PubMed

    Liu, Rui; Liu, Zhidong; Zhang, Chengui; Zhang, Boli

    2012-10-01

    The aim of this study was to develop a novel nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) system to improve ocular bioavailability of mangiferin (MGN) for the potential treatment of cataract. The physicochemical properties of MGN-loaded NLC (MGN-NLC) formulation were characterized by particle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, drug loading, morphological property, and crystalline state. in vitro characteristics were investigated by drug release from NLC system, physical stability, and corneal permeation through excised rabbit cornea. Moreover, in vivo ocular tolerability was assessed by a modified Draize test and histological microscopy. Preocular retention capability was evaluated by slit-lamp observation. Pharmacokinetic study in the aqueous humor was performed by microdialysis technique. Transmission electron microscopy depicted spherical and uniform morphology. Differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray diffractometry displayed imperfect crystalline lattice. The optimized MGN-NLC formulation exhibited a sustained drug release with 3 months stability and 4.31-fold increase of in vitro corneal permeation. Furthermore, in vivo studies exhibited a high tolerance in the ocular tissues and prolonged drug retention capacity on the corneal surface. Finally, pharmacokinetic study suggested a 5.69-fold increase of ocular bioavailability compared with MGN solution (MGN-SOL). Therefore, NLC system is a promising approach for ocular delivery of MGN. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  6. 77 FR 31004 - Southern Natural Gas Company; Notice of Request Under Blanket Authorization

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-05-24

    ... Natural Gas Company; Notice of Request Under Blanket Authorization Take notice that on May 9, 2012, Southern Natural Gas Company (Southern), 569 Brookwood Village, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35209, filed... Commission's regulations under the Natural Gas Act (NGA), and Southern's blanket certificate issued in Docket...

  7. 75 FR 2130 - Southern Natural Gas Company; Notice of Application

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-14

    ... Natural Gas Company; Notice of Application January 6, 2010. Take notice that on December 29, 2009, Southern Natural Gas Company (Southern), 569 Brookwood Village, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35209, filed in the above referenced docket an application pursuant to section 7(b) of the Natural Gas Act (NGA...

  8. DNR Land Records Search Portal

    Science.gov Websites

    - ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE 513 - PARK USE PERMIT 521 - SUBDIVISION SALE COMP 522 - AGRICULTURAL SALE COMP 523 - ODDLOT UPLAND 539 - OTHER SALE NON-COMP 541 - SUBDIVISION LEASE COMP 542 - AGRICULTURAL LEASE COMP 543 - ODDLOT - RESIDENTIAL HOMESTEAD 567 - AGRICULTURAL HOMESTEAD 568 - REAA SCHOOL CONVEYANCE 569 - DISPOSAL OF ACCRETED

  9. Hubble Against Earth Horizon 1997

    NASA Image and Video Library

    1997-10-10

    The Hubble Space Telescope hovers at the boundary of Earth and space in this picture, taken after Hubble second servicing mission in 1997. Hubble drifts 353 miles (569 km) above the Earth's surface, where it can avoid the atmosphere and clearly see objects in space. http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.gov/catalog/PIA18165

  10. 76 FR 55261 - Safety Zones; Annual Firework Displays Within the Captain of the Port, Puget Sound Area of...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-09-07

    ... responsibility on September 10, 2011 for the Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival in Possession Sound, WA and on December... Lighthouse Festival.. Possession Sound. 47[deg]56.9' N 122[deg]18.6' W 300 The following safety zone will be...

  11. Adolescents' Misperceptions of the Dangerousness of Acetaminophen in Overdose.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Harris, Hope Elaine; Myers, Wade C.

    1997-01-01

    Assesses the generality and strength of nonclinical youths' (N=569) perceptions of the harmfulness and lethality of acetaminophen in overdose. Findings indicate that adolescents have ready access to acetaminophen and use it in suicide attempts but underestimate its potential for toxicity, lacking knowledge regarding side effects of overdose. (RJM)

  12. Microcomputer Security Issues in an Office Environment.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1986-11-01

    Holmes Inc. A. 4605 Post Oak Place Drive, Suite 209 Houston, Texas 77027 r -w (713) 840-7771 Lockit I/Lockit II Security Microsystems Consultants 16...9300 MultiSentry/ComputerSentry Tact Technology 100 North 20th Street Philadelphia, PA 19103 (215) 569-1300 . Sherlock PC/ISM/ISM-Federal Analytics

  13. 77 FR 46413 - Submission for OMB Review; Comment Request

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-08-03

    ..., Public Law 93-112; Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1992, Public Law 102-569; Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Public Law 101- 336; Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments of 2008, Public Law 110... should be sent to Ms. Toppings at WHS/ESD Information Management Division, 4800 Mark Center Drive, East...

  14. Application And Implication of Nanomaterials In The Environment: An Overview Of Current Research At The Environmental Protection Agency (Philadelphia, PA)

    EPA Science Inventory

    The purpose of this presentation is to discuss the research drives behind Nano particles research in the environment. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT ROGER B. YEARDLEY, JR., LAND REMEDIATION AND POLLUTION CONTROL DIVISION, AT 513-569-7548.

  15. Antiviral therapy in cytomegalovirus-positive ulcerative colitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Kopylov, Uri; Eliakim-Raz, Noa; Szilagy, Andrew; Seidman, Ernest; Ben-Horin, Shomron; Katz, Lior

    2014-03-14

    To evaluate the impact of antiviral treatment on cytomegalovirus (CMV)-positive ulcerative colitis patients. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis (MA) of comparative cohort and case-control studies published between January 1966 and March 2013. Studies focusing on colectomy series and studies including only less than 3 patients in the treated or non-treated arm were excluded. The primary outcome was colectomy within 30 d of diagnosis. Secondary outcomes included colectomy during the follow-up period Subgroup analyses by method of detection of CMV, study design, risk of bias and country of origin were performed. Quality of studies was evaluated according to modified New-Castle Ottawa Scale. After full-text review, nine studies with a total of 176 patients were included in our MA. All the included studies were of low to moderate quality. Patients who have received antiviral treatment had a higher risk of 30-d colectomy (OR = 2.40; 95%CI: 1.05-5.50; I² = 37.2%). A subgroup analysis including only patients in whom CMV diagnosis was based did not demonstrate a significant difference between the groups (OR = 3.41; 95%CI: 0.39-29.83; I² = 56.9%). Analysis of long-term colectomy rates was possible for 6 studies including 110 patients. No statistically significant difference was found between the treated and untreated groups (OR = 1.71; 95%CI: 0.71-4.13; 6 studies, I² = 0%). Analysis of mortality rate was not possible due to a very limited number of cases. Stratification of the outcomes by disease severity was not possible. No positive association between antiviral treatment and a favorable outcome was demonstrated. These findings should be interpreted cautiously due to primary studies' quality and potential biases.

  16. Antiviral therapy in cytomegalovirus-positive ulcerative colitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

    PubMed Central

    Kopylov, Uri; Eliakim-Raz, Noa; Szilagy, Andrew; Seidman, Ernest; Ben-Horin, Shomron; Katz, Lior

    2014-01-01

    AIM: To evaluate the impact of antiviral treatment on cytomegalovirus (CMV)-positive ulcerative colitis patients. METHODS: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis (MA) of comparative cohort and case-control studies published between January 1966 and March 2013. Studies focusing on colectomy series and studies including only less than 3 patients in the treated or non-treated arm were excluded. The primary outcome was colectomy within 30 d of diagnosis. Secondary outcomes included colectomy during the follow-up period Subgroup analyses by method of detection of CMV, study design, risk of bias and country of origin were performed. Quality of studies was evaluated according to modified New-Castle Ottawa Scale. RESULTS: After full-text review, nine studies with a total of 176 patients were included in our MA. All the included studies were of low to moderate quality. Patients who have received antiviral treatment had a higher risk of 30-d colectomy (OR = 2.40; 95%CI: 1.05-5.50; I2 = 37.2%). A subgroup analysis including only patients in whom CMV diagnosis was based did not demonstrate a significant difference between the groups (OR = 3.41; 95%CI: 0.39-29.83; I2 = 56.9%). Analysis of long-term colectomy rates was possible for 6 studies including 110 patients. No statistically significant difference was found between the treated and untreated groups (OR = 1.71; 95%CI: 0.71-4.13; 6 studies, I2 = 0%). Analysis of mortality rate was not possible due to a very limited number of cases. Stratification of the outcomes by disease severity was not possible. CONCLUSION: No positive association between antiviral treatment and a favorable outcome was demonstrated. These findings should be interpreted cautiously due to primary studies’ quality and potential biases. PMID:24627606

  17. Application of ATC/DDD methodology to evaluate perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis.

    PubMed

    Akalin, Serife; Kutlu, Selda Sayin; Cirak, Bayram; Eskiçorapcı, Saadettin Yilmaz; Bagdatli, Dilek; Akkaya, Semih

    2012-02-01

    To evaluate quality of perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis (PAP) and to calculate the cost per procedure in a Turkish university hospital. A 352-bed teaching hospital in Denizli, Turkey. An prospective audit was performed between July and October 2010. All clean, clean-contaminated and contaminated elective surgical procedures in ten surgical wards were recorded. Antimicrobial use was calculated per procedure using the ATC-DDD system. The appropriateness of antibiotic use for each procedure was evaluated according to international guidelines on PAP. In addition, the cost per procedure was calculated. Overall, in 577 of the 625 (92.3%) of the studied procedures, PAP was used. PAP was indicated in 12.5% of the group where it was not used, and not indicated in 7.1% of the group where it was used. Unnecessarily prolonged antimicrobial prophylaxis was observed in 56.9% of the procedures, mean duration was 2.6 ± 2.7 days. The most frequently used antimicrobials were cefazolin (117.9 DDD/100-operation) and sulbactam/ampicillin (102.2 DDD/100-operation). The timing of the starting dose was appropriate in 545 procedures (94.5%). In the group that received PAP, only 80 (13.7%) of the procedures were found to be fully appropriate and correct. The density of antimicrobial use per operation was 2.8 DDD. The mean cost of the use of prophylactic antimicrobials 18.6 per procedure. The density of antimicrobial use in PAP was found to be very high in our hospital. Antibiotic overuse extended into the postoperative period.

  18. Evaluation of oxidative stress status and antioxidant capacity in patients with renal cell carcinoma

    PubMed Central

    Karaguzel, Ersagun; Okulu, Emrah; Gudeloglu, Ahmet; Ener, Kemal; Ozayar, Asim; Erel, Ozcan

    2015-01-01

    Introduction We evaluated and compared the serum oxidative stress and antioxidant enzymes in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and the control group. Material and methods The prospective study consisted of 97 patients with RCC (Group 1) and 80 age and sex matched healthy volunteers (Group 2). Group 1 and 2 were compared concerning serum mean total oxidant status (TOS), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), arylesterase, total thiol, catalase (CAT), myeloperoxidase (MPO) and ceruloplasmin. Results Patients’ mean age was 58.5 ±12.3 and 56.9 ±15.8 years, respectively, in Group 1 and 2. No statistically significant differences were detected between the groups in terms of oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant capacity measured in the serum of patients including, TOS, TAC, PON1, arylesterase, total thiol, CAT, MPO, and ceruloplasmin levels (p >0.05 for all parameters). The PON-1 value was significantly higher in patients with pT1 stage than pT3 stage (p = 0.007). The arylesterase value was significantly higher in patients with Fuhrman's nuclear grade 3 than grade 2 (p = 0.035). There was no correlation between these parameters level and Fuhrman's nuclear grade, stage, or histopathological tumor type. Conclusions Our results demonstrated that evaluation of these parameters in the serum of patients with localized RCC may not be used as a marker to discriminate between patients with RCC and healthy people. PMID:26855793

  19. Can HRV be used to evaluate training load in constant load exercises?

    PubMed

    Kaikkonen, Piia; Hynynen, Esa; Mann, Theresa; Rusko, Heikki; Nummela, Ari

    2010-02-01

    The overload principle of training states that training load (TL) must be sufficient to threaten the homeostasis of cells, tissues, organs, and/or body. However, there is no "golden standard" for TL measurement. The aim of this study was to examine if any post-exercise heart rate variability (HRV) indices could be used to evaluate TL in exercises with different intensities and durations. Thirteen endurance-trained males (35 +/- 5 year) performed MODE (moderate intensity, 3 km at 60% of the maximal velocity of the graded maximal test (vVO(2max))), HI (high intensity, 3 km at 85% vVO(2max)), and PRO (prolonged, 14 km at 60% vVO(2max)) exercises on a treadmill. HRV was analyzed with short-time Fourier-transform method during rest, exercise, and 15-min recovery. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE), blood lactate (BLa), and HFP(120) (mean of 0-120 s post-exercise) described TL of these exercises similarly, being different for HI (P < 0.05) and PRO (P < 0.05) when compared with MODE. RPE and BLa also correlated negatively with HFP(120) (r = -0.604, -0.401), LFP(120) (-0.634, -0.601), and TP(120) (-0.691, -0.569). HRV recovery dynamics were similar after each exercise, but the level of HRV was lower after HI than MODE. Increased intensity or duration of exercise decreased immediate HRV recovery, suggesting that post-exercise HRV may enable an objective evaluation of TL in field conditions. The first 2-min recovery seems to give enough information on HRV recovery for evaluating TL.

  20. Missed rib fractures on evaluation of initial chest CT for trauma patients: pattern analysis and diagnostic value of coronal multiplanar reconstruction images with multidetector row CT

    PubMed Central

    Cho, S H; Sung, Y M; Kim, M S

    2012-01-01

    Objective The objective of this study was to review the prevalence and radiological features of rib fractures missed on initial chest CT evaluation, and to examine the diagnostic value of additional coronal images in a large series of trauma patients. Methods 130 patients who presented to an emergency room for blunt chest trauma underwent multidetector row CT of the thorax within the first hour during their stay, and had follow-up CT or bone scans as diagnostic gold standards. Images were evaluated on two separate occasions: once with axial images and once with both axial and coronal images. The detection rates of missed rib fractures were compared between readings using a non-parametric method of clustered data. In the cases of missed rib fractures, the shapes, locations and associated fractures were evaluated. Results 58 rib fractures were missed with axial images only and 52 were missed with both axial and coronal images (p=0.088). The most common shape of missed rib fractures was buckled (56.9%), and the anterior arc (55.2%) was most commonly involved. 21 (36.2%) missed rib fractures had combined fractures on the same ribs, and 38 (65.5%) were accompanied by fracture on neighbouring ribs. Conclusion Missed rib fractures are not uncommon, and radiologists should be familiar with buckle fractures, which are frequently missed. Additional coronal imagescan be helpful in the diagnosis of rib fractures that are not seen on axial images. PMID:22514102

  1. Small-bowel mucosal healing assessment by capsule endoscopy as a predictor of long-term clinical remission in patients with Crohn's disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Niv, Yaron

    2017-07-01

    Capsule endoscopy (CE) may be used for the evaluation and follow-up of patients with Crohn's disease. CE scores correspond to the degree of mucosal inflammation, a major therapeutic target. The aim of this meta-analysis and systematic review was to determine whether mucosal healing assessment by CE may serve as a predictor of clinical remission in patients with Crohn's disease. To identify observational or controlled English-language full-text studies assessing mucosal healing by CE in patients with Crohn's disease up to 30 September 2016, we searched PubMed, Embase, Central, Medline, and Scopus using the key words 'mucosal healing' and 'capsule endoscopy'. A meta-analysis was carried out using 'Comprehensive meta-analysis' software. Pooled odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Five observational studies including 142 patients from five countries fulfilled the inclusion criteria. No publication bias was found by funnel plot. The mucosal healing CE score was found to be significantly associated with improved outcome after a follow-up of 12 weeks to 24 months, with an odds ratio of 11.06 (95% confidence interval: 3.74-32.73, P<0.001). The degree of heterogeneity among the studies was small (Q=2.014, d.f.[Q]=3, P=0.569 and I=0). Endoscopy scores may play a role in the long-term prognostic evaluation of patients with Crohn's disease. Our results may be accepted as proof of concept, but larger studies are needed to corroborate these findings.

  2. A recurrent de novo FAM111A mutation causes Kenny-Caffey syndrome type 2.

    PubMed

    Isojima, Tsuyoshi; Doi, Koichiro; Mitsui, Jun; Oda, Yoichiro; Tokuhiro, Etsuro; Yasoda, Akihiro; Yorifuji, Tohru; Horikawa, Reiko; Yoshimura, Jun; Ishiura, Hiroyuki; Morishita, Shinichi; Tsuji, Shoji; Kitanaka, Sachiko

    2014-04-01

    Kenny-Caffey syndrome (KCS) is a rare dysmorphologic syndrome characterized by proportionate short stature, cortical thickening and medullary stenosis of tubular bones, delayed closure of anterior fontanelle, eye abnormalities, and hypoparathyroidism. The autosomal dominant form of KCS (KCS type 2 [KCS2]) is distinguished from the autosomal recessive form of KCS (KCS type 1 [KCS1]), which is caused by mutations of the tubulin-folding cofactor E (TBCE) gene, by the absence of mental retardation. In this study, we recruited four unrelated Japanese patients with typical sporadic KCS2, and performed exome sequencing in three patients and their parents to elucidate the molecular basis of KCS2. The possible candidate genes were explored by a de novo mutation detection method. A single gene, FAM111A (NM_001142519.1), was shared among three families. An identical missense mutation, R569H, was heterozygously detected in all three patients but not in the unaffected family members. This mutation was also found in an additional unrelated patient. These findings are in accordance with those of a recent independent report by a Swiss group that KCS2 is caused by a de novo mutation of FAM111A, and R569H is a hot spot mutation for KCS2. Although the function of FAM111A is not known, this study would provide evidence that FAM111A is a key molecule for normal bone development, height gain, and parathyroid hormone development and/or regulation. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.

  3. Combustion synthesis and luminescence properties of yellow-emitting phosphors Ca{sub 2}BO{sub 3}Cl:Eu{sup 2+}

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

    Xia, Zhiguo, E-mail: xiazg426@yahoo.com.cn; Liao, Libing, E-mail: lbliao@cugb.edu.cn; Zhang, Zepeng

    2012-02-15

    Graphical abstract: A yellow-emitting phosphor Ca{sub 2}BO{sub 3}Cl:Eu{sup 2+} was firstly synthesized by the solution-combustion method. The photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra, temperature dependence of luminescence intensity, and luminescence lifetime of the phosphor were investigated. Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Ca{sub 2}BO{sub 3}Cl:Eu{sup 2+} phosphor was synthesized by a solution-combustion method. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Ca{sub 2}BO{sub 3}Cl:Eu{sup 2+} showed an intense yellow emission band centered at 569 nm with the CIE coordinate of (0.453, 0.526). Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The temperature dependent luminescence property and mechanism of Ca{sub 2}BO{sub 3}Cl:Eu{sup 2+} were studied. -- Abstract: Yellow-emitting phosphor Ca{sub 2}BO{sub 3}Cl:Eu{sup 2+} was synthesized by a solution-combustion method. Themore » phase structure and microstructure were determined by the X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis, respectively. The as-prepared Ca{sub 2}BO{sub 3}Cl:Eu{sup 2+} phosphor absorbed near ultraviolet and blue light of 320-500 nm, and showed an intense yellow emission band centered at 569 nm with the CIE coordinate of (0.453, 0.526). The lifetime of Eu{sup 2+} ions in Ca{sub 2}BO{sub 3}Cl:Eu{sup 2+} phosphor was measured, furthermore the temperature dependent luminescence property and mechanism were studied, which also testified that the present phosphor had a promising potential for white light-emitting diodes.« less

  4. Development and evaluation of a truncated recombinant NS3 antigen-based indirect ELISA for detection of pestivirus antibodies in sheep and goats.

    PubMed

    Kalaiyarasu, Semmannan; Mishra, Niranjan; Rajukumar, Katherukamem; Nema, Ram Kumar; Behera, Sthita Pragnya

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study was to develop an indirect ELISA using the helicase domain of bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) NS3 protein instead of full-length NS3 protein for detection of BVDV and BDV antibodies in sheep and goats and its validation by comparing its sensitivity and specificity with virus neutralization test (VNT) as the reference test. The purified 50 kDa recombinant NS3 protein was used as the coating antigen in the ELISA. The optimal concentration of antigen was 320 ng/well at a serum dilution of 1:20 and the optimal positive cut-off optical density value was 0.40 based on test results of 418 VNT negative sheep and goat sera samples. When 569 serum samples from sheep (463) and goats (106) were tested, the ELISA showed a sensitivity of 91.71% and specificity of 94.59% with BVDV VNT. A good correlation (93.67%) was observed between the two tests. It showed a sensitivity of 85% and specificity of 86.6% with VNT in detecting BDV antibody positive or negative samples. This study demonstrates the efficacy of truncated recombinant NS3 antigen based ELISA for seroepidemiological study of pestivirus infection in sheep and goats.

  5. Activation of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in triple negative feline mammary carcinomas

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) in humans is defined by the absence of oestrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and HER2 overexpression. Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is overexpressed in TNBC and it represents a potential target for the treatment of this aggressive tumour. Feline mammary carcinoma (FMC) is considered to be a model for hormone-independent human breast cancer. This study investigated mTOR and p-mTOR expression in FMC in relation to triple negative (TN) phenotype. Results The expression of mTOR, p-mTOR, ERα, PR and HER2 was evaluated in 58 FMCs by immunohistochemistry and in six FMC cell lines by Western blot analysis. 53.5% of FMC analyzed were ER, PR, HER2 negative (TN-FMC) while 56.9% and 55.2% of cases expressed mTOR and p-mTOR respectively. In this study we found that m-TOR and p-mTOR were more frequently detected in TN-FMC and in HER2 negative samples. Conclusions In this study, we demonstrate that there is also a FMC subset defined as TN FMC, which is characterised by a statistically significant association with m-TOR and p-mTOR expression as demonstrated in human breast cancer. PMID:23587222

  6. A study on job postures and musculoskeletal illnesses in dentists.

    PubMed

    Rafeemanesh, Ehsan; Jafari, Zahra; Kashani, Farzad Omidi; Rahimpour, Farzaneh

    2013-08-01

    Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) compose a large part of occupational diseases in dental professionals, prevention of which is dependent on assessment and improvement of job postures by means of ergonomic interventions. This study was aimed at evaluation of ergonomic conditions of the profession of dentists and also at assessing the relationship between MSDs and conditions of work. This cross-sectional study was performed among 65 dentists using the method of Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA). The prevalence of MSDs was obtained by the use of the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). In this investigation, the prevalence of MSDs for different body parts was: 75.9% for the neck, 58.6% for the shoulders, 56.9% for the upper back, 48.3% for the lower back and 44.8% for the wrist. Job analysis by the use of REBA showed that 89.6% of limbs in group A and 79.3% of limbs in group B had a score > 4. Only neck and lower back pain have significant relationship with the risk levels obtained using the REBA method. It can be concluded that work postures of dentists need to be improved. In addition to education, work station design, rest period during work and regular physical activities should be taken into account.

  7. Nursing knowledge and practices regarding subcutaneous fluid administration.

    PubMed

    Gomes, Nathália Silva; Silva, Andrea Mara Bernardes da; Zago, Luana Barbosa; Silva, Érica Carneiro de Lima E; Barichello, Elizabeth

    2017-01-01

    To describe the evidence in the literature regarding the knowledge and practices of the nursing team about subcutaneous administration of drugs and fluids in adults. Integrative review of the literature using the descriptors "nursing", "hypodermoclysis", "drug administration routes", "adult health," and "knowledge," in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, with no publication deadline. Of the 569 articles found, eight made up the sample. A predominance of international journals (75%) with more than five years of publication (62.5%). The analysis of the methodological characteristics showed a predominance of literature reviews (25%), quantitative studies (62.5%), cross-sectional studies (50%), and non-experimental studies (50%). Although it is an old technique with proven efficacy, hypodermoclysis is still little used, a puzzling fact due to its advantages and indications for any age. descrever as evidências, na literatura, sobre os conhecimentos e as práticas da equipe de enfermagem na administração de medicamentos e de fluidos por via subcutânea no adulto. revisão integrativa da literatura utilizando os descritores enfermagem, hipodermóclise, vias de administração de medicamentos, saúde do adulto e conhecimento; nos idiomas inglês, espanhol e português, sem data limite de publicação. Dos 569 artigos encontrados, oito compuseram a amostra. predomínio de revistas internacionais (75%) e com mais de cinco anos de publicação (62,5%). Ao analisarem-se as características metodológicas, predominaram: revisões de literatura (25%), estudos quantitativos (62,5%), estudos transversais (50%) e não-experimentais (50%). apesar de se tratar de uma técnica antiga com eficácia comprovada, a hipodermóclise ainda é pouco utilizada, fato incoerente pelas suas vantagens e suas indicações para qualquer idade.

  8. Glaucoma in Patients with Eyes Close to Areas Affected by Port-wine Stain has Lateral and Gender Predilection.

    PubMed

    Wu, Yue; Yu, Ru-Jing; Chen, Di; Xu, Li; Li, Mao; Zhu, Li; Guo, Chun-Yu; Guo, Wen-Yi

    2017-12-20

    The location of facial port-wine stain (PWS) may be helpful for predicting some associated anomalies; high glaucoma incidence is found in patients with eyes close to PWS-affected areas (V1, ophthalmic branch area of the trigeminal nerve). This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of glaucoma in V1-affected PWS. A total of 569 patients with V1 area-affected PWS were reviewed in the study. The large series was based on the referral system between the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the Department of Ophthalmology. All patients were screened for glaucoma with assessments of intraocular pressure, cup-to-disc ratio, corneal diameter (only for infants), and axial length. Of the 569 patients, 110 (19.3%) patients had glaucoma. Among the patients, 18.1% (76/420) had early-onset glaucoma (under 4-year-old group). In the 4 to 18-year-old age group, 29.3% (29/99) of the patients had glaucoma. Compared with right lateral and bilateral PWS, left-sided PWS had a lower risk of glaucoma in this study (odds ratio = 0.432 [95% confidence interval, 0.264-0.706], P = 0.01). The under 4-year-old group showed a slight predominance of males (61.8%) in glaucoma. High glaucoma incidence was observed in patients with eyes close to PWS. More attention should be paid to glaucoma screening for right lateral and bilateral PWS patients. The predominance of males in Sturge-Weber syndrome (SWS) early-onset glaucoma patients might be due to the limitation of the case number; however, it might also provide us a new clue of potential relationship between SWS and PCG.

  9. Evaluation of left ventricular function using volumetric computed tomography in the clinical setting.

    PubMed

    de la Peña-Almaguer, Erasmo; Trevino, Alejandro R; Sierra-Galan, Lilia; Azpiri-Lopez, José R; Assad-Morell, José L; Kirsch, Jacobo; Chang, Su Min

    2016-01-01

    To correlate the left ventricular parameters obtained with 64-slice Volumetric Computed Tomography (VCT) with those obtained with the reference standard, cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. VCT and a 3.0T MRI scanner were used. Results from both studies were independently evaluated by two cardiologists. A linear correlation and a paired Student's t test were used to analyze the data with a P<0.05 being considered significant. Thirty consecutive patients were evaluated with VCT and CMR. The left ventricular indices for CMR and VCT were, respectively, mass 86.4±25.8 vs. 82.7±27.6g (P=0.31); ESV 45.5±27.8 vs. 48.7±40.4ml (P=.405); EDV 101.3±32.7 vs. 105.1±44.0ml (P=0.475); SV 55.9±16.1 vs. 56.8±15.6ml (P=0.713); LVEF 57.5±13.2% vs. 56.9±12.4% (P=0.630). No differences in intraobserver variability for both methods were found, CT r=0.96, r(2)=0.92 P<0.0001 and MR r=0.96 r(2)=0.93 P<0.0001. There was no significant statistical difference in the presence of artifacts. There is a close correlation between CMRI and VCT in the evaluation of LV function. VCT is as useful as 3T CMR, and could be incorporated as another resource for evaluating LV function. Copyright © 2015 Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez. Published by Masson Doyma México S.A. All rights reserved.

  10. Fractional microplasma radiofrequency technology for non-hypertrophic post-burn scars in Asians: A prospective study of 95 patients.

    PubMed

    Wang, Shen; Mi, Jing; Li, Qingfeng; Jin, Rui; Dong, Jiying

    2017-08-01

    Laser and other energy devices are emerging, minimally invasive treatments for scars. Among the various techniques, fractional microplasma radiofrequency technology (FMRT) has proven to be an effective treatment option for various types of scars and skin conditions such as rhytids, striae distensae, and hyperpigmentation. This prospective clinical trial was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of FMRT for treating non-hypertrophic post-burn scars in the Asian population. All patients underwent three to five treatment sessions at various intervals of 8-16 weeks. The Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scales (POSAS) [20] were used to evaluate changes in burn scars pre-and post-FMRT treatment. A total of 95 patients completed the study. The overall response rate was 86.3% (82/95). The total POSAS scores before and after 6 months of treatment were 53.41 ± 6.28 and 46.35 ± 5.30, respectively. There was statistically significant improvement in scar color, thickness, and pliability. There was no improvement in vascularization, pain, or itching. Complications included prolonged post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, acne eruption, herpes simplex eruption, and abnormal hair growth. No severe adverse events, such as acute skin infection, hypertrophic scarring, or depigmentation, were observed. FMRT is an efficacious, safe treatment for non-hypertrophic burn scars in the Asian population. Lasers Surg. Med. 49:563-569, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  11. 75 FR 4428 - Advisory Committee On Reactor Safeguards; Revised Meeting Notice

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-27

    ... NUCLEAR REGULATORY COMMISSION Advisory Committee On Reactor Safeguards; Revised Meeting Notice The Agenda for the 569th ACRS meeting, scheduled to be held on February 4-6, 2010, has been revised as noted below. Notice of this meeting was previously published in the Federal Register on Thursday, January 21...

  12. 49 CFR 569.7 - Requirements.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-10-01

    ... to owners or operators of motor vehicles and any person who regrooves his own tires for use on motor... tread groove which is at or below the new regrooved depth shall have a minimum of 90 linear inches of tread edges per linear foot of the circumference; (iv) After regrooving, the new groove width generated...

  13. Sequencing and functional validation of the JGI Brachypodium distachyon T-DNA collection

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Brachypodium distachyon is a powerful experimental model for the grasses with a large and growing collection of genomic and experimental resources. We have added to these resources by greatly expanding the number of sequence-indexed T-DNA lines. We sequenced 21,165 T-DNA lines, 15,569 of which were ...

  14. Translations on Eastern Europe, Scientific Affairs, Number 569

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1978-01-12

    compensation of the plasma pres- sure is achieved by means of a magnetic field produced in conjunction with an induced high current flowing in the plasma ring (poloidal... plasma ring acts as the "secondary coil." -2 Inertial confinement is, in principle, simpler, but as yet realized technically only in the relatively

  15. Land ownership patterns in the Tanana River basin, Alaska, 1984.

    Treesearch

    Willem W.S. Van Hees

    1985-01-01

    Aerial photo sampling coupled with information taken on the ground provided data for development of estimates of land and forest area by ownership group within the boundaries of the 1971-75 Tanana River Basin timber inventory unit, Alaska. Area of privately owned timberland is estimated at 280,634 acres (113 569 hectares).

  16. The application of hypserspectral imaging analysis to fresh food safety inspection

    USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

    Line-scan hyperspectral images of fresh matured tomatoes were collected for image analysis. Algorithms were developed, based on spectral analysis, to detect defect of cracks on fresh produce. Four wavebands of 569 nm, 645 nm, 702 nm and 887 nm were selected from spectra analysis to use the relative...

  17. Health Impact Assessment (HIA) of Proposed Code Changes Regarding Onsite Sewage Disposal Systems in Suffolk County, NY

    EPA Science Inventory

    The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) of proposed code changes regarding residential onsite sewage disposal systems (OSDS) in Suffolk County, New York. Of the approximately 569,000 housing units in Suffolk County, 365,000 are no...

  18. 46 CFR 5.569 - Selection of an appropriate order.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... Administrative Law Judge, subject to appeal and review. The investigating officer and the respondent may suggest... guidance of Administrative Law Judges and is intended to promote uniformity in orders rendered. This table... obey master's/ship officer's order 1-3. Failure to comply with U.S. law or regulations 1-3. Possession...

  19. 75 FR 4760 - Review of the Emergency Alert System

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-29

    ...; State, Local or Tribal Governments; Non-profit entities. Number of Respondents: 3,569,028. Estimated... hours. Total Annual Cost: $3,086,044. Privacy Impact Assessment: No impact(s). Nature and Extent of... retransmitted the alert; and (3) if they were not able to receive and/ or transmit the alert, their `best effort...

  20. Waqf and Madrasas in Late Medieval Syria

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Mahamid, Hatim

    2013-01-01

    The "madrasa" began to spread in Syria ("Bilad al-Sham") as a higher institution for religious education since the Zangid rule (521H./1127 to 569H./ 1173). During the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods, main cities of Syria were characterized by many madrasas, especially the major cities that served the political rule like, Damascus,…

  1. 76 FR 66054 - Southern Natural Gas Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Application

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-10-25

    ... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. CP12-4-000] Southern Natural Gas Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Application Take notice that on October 7, 2011, Southern Natural Gas Company, L.L.C. (Southern), 569 Brookwood Village, Suite 501, Birmingham, AL 35209, filed an application...

  2. 77 FR 788 - Southern LNG Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Application

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-01-06

    ... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. CP12-31-000] Southern LNG Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Application Take notice that on December 15, 2011, Southern LNG Company, L.L.C... Affairs, Southern LNG Company, L.L.C., 569 Brookwood Village, Suite 501, Birmingham, Alabama 35209, by...

  3. 76 FR 71961 - Elba Express Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Application

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-11-21

    ... DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission [Docket No. CP12-11-000] Elba Express Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Application Take notice that on October 31, 2011, Elba Express Company, L.L.C... directed to Glenn A. Sheffield, Director, Rates & Regulatory Affairs, Elba Express Company, L.L.C., 569...

  4. Temporal distribution of trauma deaths: quality of trauma care in a developing country.

    PubMed

    Masella, Cesar Augusto; Pinho, Vitor Ferreira; Costa Passos, Afonso Dinis; Spencer Netto, Fernando A C; Rizoli, Sandro; Scarpelini, Sandro

    2008-09-01

    Examination of the epidemiology and timing of trauma deaths has been deemed a useful method to evaluate the quality of trauma care. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of trauma care in a regional trauma system and in a university hospital in Brazil by comparing the timing of deaths in the studied prehospital and in-hospital settings to those published for trauma systems in other areas. We analyzed the National Health Minister's System of Deaths Information for the prehospital mortality and we retrospectively collected the demographics, timelines, and trauma severity scores of all in-hospital patients who died after admission through the Emergency Unit of Hospital das Clinicas de Ribeirao Preto between 2000 and 2001. During the study period, there were 787 trauma fatalities in the city: 448 (56.9%) died in the prehospital setting and 339 (43.1%) died after being admitted to a medical facility. In 2 years, 238 trauma deaths occurred in the studied hospital, and we found a complete clinical set of data for 224 of these patients. The majority of deaths in the prehospital setting were caused by penetrating injuries (66.7%), whereas in-hospital mortality was mainly because of blunt traumas (59.1%). The largest number of in-hospital deaths occurred beyond 72 hours of stay (107 patients-47%). The region studied showed some deficiencies in prehospital and in-hospitals settings, in particular in the critical care and short-term follow-up of trauma patients when compared with the literature. Particularly, the late mortality may be related to training and human resources deficiency. Based on the timeline of trauma deaths, we can suggest that the studied region needs improvements in the prehospital trauma system and in hospital critical care.

  5. Nonenzymatic all-solid-state coated wire electrode for acetylcholine determination in vitro.

    PubMed

    He, Cheng; Wang, Zhan; Wang, You; Hu, Ruifen; Li, Guang

    2016-11-15

    A nonenzymatic all-solid-state coated wire acetylcholine electrode was investigated. Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) doped with poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT/PSS) as conducting polymer was coated on one end of a gold wire (0.5mm in diameter). The acetylcholine selective membrane containing heptakis(2,3,6-tri-Ο-methyl)-β-cyclodextrin as an ionophore covered the conducting polymer layer. The electrode could work stably in a pH range of 6.5-8.5 and a temperature range of 15-40°C. It covered an acetylcholine concentration range of 10(-5)-10(-1)M with a slope of 54.04±1.70mV/decade, while detection limit was 5.69±1.06µM. The selectivity, dynamic response, reproducibility and stability were evaluated. The electrode could work properly in the rat brain homogenate to detect different concentrations of acetylcholine. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  6. Upper bound of pier scour in laboratory and field data

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Benedict, Stephen; Caldwell, Andral W.

    2016-01-01

    The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the South Carolina Department of Transportation, conducted several field investigations of pier scour in South Carolina and used the data to develop envelope curves defining the upper bound of pier scour. To expand on this previous work, an additional cooperative investigation was initiated to combine the South Carolina data with pier scour data from other sources and to evaluate upper-bound relations with this larger data set. To facilitate this analysis, 569 laboratory and 1,858 field measurements of pier scour were compiled to form the 2014 USGS Pier Scour Database. This extensive database was used to develop an envelope curve for the potential maximum pier scour depth encompassing the laboratory and field data. The envelope curve provides a simple but useful tool for assessing the potential maximum pier scour depth for effective pier widths of about 30 ft or less.

  7. Pancreas retransplantation: a second chance for diabetic patients?

    PubMed

    Buron, Fanny; Thaunat, Olivier; Demuylder-Mischler, Sandrine; Badet, Lionel; Brunet, Maria; Ber, Charles-Eric; Thivolet, Charles; Martin, Xavier; Berney, Thierry; Morelon, Emmanuel

    2013-01-27

    If pancreas transplantation is a validated alternative for type 1 diabetic patients with end-stage renal disease, the management of patients who have lost their primary graft is poorly defined. This study aims at evaluating pancreas retransplantation outcome. Between 1976 and 2008, 569 pancreas transplantations were performed in Lyon and Geneva, including 37 second transplantations. Second graft survival was compared with primary graft survival of the same patients and the whole population. Predictive factors of second graft survival were sought. Patient survival and impact on kidney graft function and survival were evaluated. Second pancreas survival of the 17 patients transplanted from 1995 was close to primary graft survival of the whole population (71% vs. 79% at 1 year and 59% vs. 69% at 5 years; P=0.5075) and significantly better than their first pancreas survival (71% vs. 29% at 1 year and 59% vs. 7% at 5 years; P=0.0008) regardless of the cause of first pancreas loss. The same results were observed with all 37 retransplantations. Survival of second simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplantations was better than survival of second pancreas after kidney. Patient survival was excellent (89% at 5 years). Pancreas retransplantation had no impact on kidney graft function and survival (100% at 5 years). Pancreas retransplantation is a safe procedure with acceptable graft survival that should be proposed to diabetic patients who have lost their primary graft.

  8. Impacts of updated spectroscopy on thermal infrared retrievals of methane evaluated with HIPPO data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Alvarado, M. J.; Payne, V. H.; Cady-Pereira, K. E.; Hegarty, J. D.; Kulawik, S. S.; Wecht, K. J.; Worden, J. R.; Pittman, J. V.; Wofsy, S. C.

    2014-09-01

    Errors in the spectroscopic parameters used in the forward radiative transfer model can introduce altitude-, spatially-, and temporally-dependent biases in trace gas retrievals. For well-mixed trace gases such as methane, where the variability of tropospheric mixing ratios is relatively small, reducing such biases is particularly important. We use aircraft observations from all five missions of the HIAPER Pole-to-Pole Observations (HIPPO) of the Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Study to evaluate the impact of updates to spectroscopic parameters for methane (CH4), water vapor (H2O), and nitrous oxide (N2O) on thermal infrared retrievals of methane from the NASA Aura Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES). We find that updates to the spectroscopic parameters for CH4 result in a substantially smaller mean bias in the retrieved CH4 when compared with HIPPO observations. After an N2O-based correction, the bias in TES methane upper tropospheric representative values for measurements between 50° S and 50° N decreases from 56.9 to 25.7 ppbv, while the bias in the lower tropospheric representative value increases only slightly (from 27.3 to 28.4 ppbv). For retrievals with less than 1.6 DOFS, the bias is reduced from 26.8 to 4.8 ppbv. We also find that updates to the spectroscopic parameters for N2O reduce the errors in the retrieved N2O profile.

  9. Nutritional status of children under 5 years of age in Brazil: evidence of nutritional epidemiological polarisation.

    PubMed

    Pereira, Ingrid Freitas da Silva; Andrade, Lára de Melo Barbosa; Spyrides, Maria Helena Constatino; Lyra, Clélia de Oliveira

    2017-10-01

    The objective of this study was to evaluate the nutritional status of children under 5 years of age in Brazil in 2009 and its association with social and demographic factors. Data from the Household Budget Survey (Pesquisa de Orçamento Familiar - POF 2008-2009) were used, in which the nutritional profile was evaluated according to the weight-for-age (W/A), height-for-age (H/A) and weight-for-height (W/H) indices (n = 14,569). The association was estimated by applying the Pearson association test, a logistic regression and a correspondence analysis. The correspondence analysis showed a higher association of thinness with children in the North and Northeast regions, in families with lower levels of income and in those of black colour/race. Overweight and obesity had a stronger relationship with children living in the South, Southeast and Central-West, in males, in those from urban areas, in those of Caucasian colour/race, in those aged 3 years and in those from families with intermediate income ranges. Overweight and obesity showed a heterogeneous spatial distribution amongst Brazilian states. A nutritional epidemiological polarisation that presents a major challenge for public health is indicated: we must reduce nutritional deficiencies and promote healthy eating habits from childhood to improve the nutritional and epidemiological profiles and mortality of the population.

  10. The effect of secukinumab on moderate-to-severe scalp psoriasis: Results of a 24-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3b study.

    PubMed

    Bagel, Jerry; Duffin, Kristina Callis; Moore, Angela; Ferris, Laura K; Siu, Kimberly; Steadman, Jennifer; Kianifard, Farid; Nyirady, Judit; Lebwohl, Mark

    2017-10-01

    Moderate-to-severe scalp psoriasis has not been evaluated in prospective trials of patients without moderate-to-severe body psoriasis. Evaluate the efficacy and safety of secukinumab in moderate-to-severe scalp psoriasis. In this 24-week, double-blind, phase 3b study, 102 patients were randomized 1:1 to subcutaneous secukinumab 300 mg or placebo at baseline, weeks 1, 2, and 3, and then every 4 weeks from week 4 to 20. The primary efficacy variable was 90% improvement of Psoriasis Scalp Severity Index (PSSI 90) score from baseline to week 12. At week 12, PSSI 90 (secukinumab 300 mg vs placebo, 52.9% vs 2.0%) and Investigator's Global Assessment modified 2011 scalp responses of 0 or 1 (secukinumab 300 mg vs placebo, 56.9% vs 5.9%) were significantly greater with secukinumab 300 mg than placebo (P < .001 for both). In addition, significantly more patients achieved complete clearance of scalp psoriasis at week 12 with secukinumab 300 mg than placebo (35.3% vs 0%; P < .001). The median time to 50% reduction in PSSI score was 3.29 weeks with secukinumab 300 mg. The safety profile of secukinumab was consistent with previous phase 3 studies. There was no active comparator arm. Secukinumab is efficacious and well-tolerated for patients with extensive moderate-to-severe scalp psoriasis. Copyright © 2017 American Academy of Dermatology, Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  11. High-precision infra-red stellar interferometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lane, Benjamin F.

    2003-08-01

    This dissertation describes work performed at the Palomar Testbed Interferometer (PTI) during 1998 2002. Using PTI, we developed a method to measure stellar angular diameters in the 1 3 milli-arcsecond range with a precision of better than 5%. Such diameter measurements were used to measure the mass-radius relations of several lower main sequence stars and hence verify model predictions for these stars. In addition, by measuring the changes in Cepheid angular diameters during the pulsational cycle and applying a Baade-Wesselink analysis we are able to derive the distances to two galactic Cepheids (η Aql & ζ Gem) with a precision of ˜10%; such distance determinations provide an independent calibration of the Cepheid period- luminosity relations that underpin current estimates of cosmic distance scales. Second, we used PTI and the adaptive optics facility at the Keck Telescope on Mauna Kea to resolve the low mass binary systems BY Dra and GJ 569B, resulting in dynamical mass determinations for these systems. GJ 569B most likely contains at least one sub-stellar component, and as such represents the first dynamical mass determination of a brown dwarf. Finally, a new observing technique, dual star phase referencing, was developed and demonstrated at PTI. Phase referencing allows interferometric observations of stars previously too faint to observe, and is a prerequisite for large-scale interferometric astrometry programs such as the one planned for the Keck Interferometer; interferometric astrometry is a promising technique for the study of extra-solar planetary systems, particularly ones with long-period planets.

  12. Mechanism of oxidation of 3-hydroxy-2,7-naphthalenedisulfonic acid disodium salt with oxygen in subcritical water.

    PubMed

    Imbierowicz, Mirosław

    2017-06-01

    The article presents the results of studies on the oxidation mechanism of 3-hydroxy-2,7-naphthalenedisulfonic acid disodium salt (R-salt) with oxygen in subcritical water. To this aim, a series of experiments were carried out which showed that at a temperature of 413 K and pH > 9 the oxidation reaction of a substrate with oxygen was relatively quick and after approximately 40 min the R-salt oxidation yield exceeded 95%. In an acidic medium (pH < 7), the rate of R-salt oxidation is small. In order to identify the mechanism of R-salt oxidation, experiments were carried out at 413-569 K in solutions with pH = 10.0 and at partial oxygen pressure p O2  = 1.73 MPa. As a result of these experiments, a stable oxidation product was isolated from the reaction mixture and subjected to spectroscopic analysis. The analysis of H NMR of this product proved that a stable intermediate product of R-salt oxidation was 4-sulfophthalic acid sodium salt. The results of the experiments have shown that destructive oxidation of R-salt can easily be obtained at a temperature of 413 K, but satisfactory reduction of TOC in wastewater containing this substrate requires the use of very high temperature: at 569 K only 60% reduction of TOC was achieved. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. Alkaline nanoparticle coatings improve resin bonding of 10-methacryloyloxydecyldihydrogenphosphate-conditioned zirconia.

    PubMed

    Qian, Mengke; Lu, Zhicen; Chen, Chen; Zhang, Huaiqin; Xie, Haifeng

    Creating an alkaline environment prior to 10-methacryloyloxydecyldihydrogenphosphate (MDP) conditioning improves the resin bonding of zirconia. The present study evaluated the effects of four alkaline coatings with different water solubilities and pH values on resin bonding of MDP-conditioned zirconia. Two alkaline nanoparticle coatings were studied in particular. Thermodynamics calculations were performed to evaluate the strengths of MDP-tetragonal phase zirconia chemical bonds at different pH values. Zirconia surfaces with and without alkaline coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM)/energy dispersive spectrometer and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; alkaline coatings included NaOH, Ca(OH) 2 , nano-MgO, and nano-Zr(OH) 4 . A shear bond strength (SBS) test was performed to evaluate the effects of the four alkaline coatings on bonding; the alkaline coatings were applied to the surfaces prior to conditioning the zirconia with MDP-containing primers. Gibbs free energies of the MDP-tetragonal zirconia crystal model coordination reaction in different pH environments were -583.892 (NaOH), -569.048 [Ca(OH) 2 ], -547.393 (MgO), and -530.279 kJ/mol [Zr(OH) 4 ]. Thermodynamic calculations indicated that the alkaline coatings improved bonding in the following order: NaOH > Ca(OH) 2 > MgO > Zr(OH) 4 . Statistical analysis of SBS tests showed a different result. SBSs were significantly different in groups that had different alkaline coatings, but it was not influenced by different primers. All four alkaline coatings increased SBS compared to control groups. Of the four coatings, nano-Zr(OH) 4 and -MgO showed higher SBS. Therefore, preparing nano-Zr(OH) 4 or -MgO coatings prior to conditioning with MDP-containing primers may potentially improve resin bonding of zirconia in the clinic.

  14. A cross-sectional survey of quality of life in colostomates: a report from Iran

    PubMed Central

    2012-01-01

    Background Considering the complications that colostomies may cause, patient self-assessments of their social, emotional, physical, sexual and functional conditions may help their surgeons to evaluate the impact of their interventions or use supplementary methods to maintain patient functional status or decrease its loss to the minimum level. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Quality of Life in Iranian patients with colostomies and to compare the age and gender differences among them. Method This cross-sectional study was conducted from 2009 to 2010 to evaluate the quality of life of 96 patients who had undergone surgery for rectal cancer and had permanent colostomies. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancers Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ)-C30 and the EORTC QLQ-CR38 were used to assess patient Quality of Life. Results The mean scores for the functional subscales were as follows: Physical Function, 70.9 (±2.2); Role Function, 68.4 (±2.6); Emotional Function, 56.9 (±2.7); Cognitive Function, 68.7 (± 2.6); and Social Function, 64.2 (±3.3). The EORTC questionnaires showed significant differences between males and females. Males had better body image scores. Sexual Function and Sexual Enjoyment were impaired in both males and females, but males had significantly higher scores and better roles in Physical and Sexual Functions. More sexual enjoyment problems in older ages were observed in both males and females. Conclusion Having a colostomy was associated with a high level of emotional and sexual function impairment. The differing challenges between males and females should encourage us to design sex-specific interventions that improve the quality of life in this group of patients. PMID:23170951

  15. A cross-sectional survey of quality of life in colostomates: a report from Iran.

    PubMed

    Mahjoubi, Bahar; Mirzaei, Rezvan; Azizi, Rasoul; Jafarinia, Mehdi; Zahedi-Shoolami, Leila

    2012-11-21

    Considering the complications that colostomies may cause, patient self-assessments of their social, emotional, physical, sexual and functional conditions may help their surgeons to evaluate the impact of their interventions or use supplementary methods to maintain patient functional status or decrease its loss to the minimum level. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Quality of Life in Iranian patients with colostomies and to compare the age and gender differences among them. This cross-sectional study was conducted from 2009 to 2010 to evaluate the quality of life of 96 patients who had undergone surgery for rectal cancer and had permanent colostomies. The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancers Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ)-C30 and the EORTC QLQ-CR38 were used to assess patient Quality of Life. The mean scores for the functional subscales were as follows: Physical Function, 70.9 (±2.2); Role Function, 68.4 (±2.6); Emotional Function, 56.9 (±2.7); Cognitive Function, 68.7 (± 2.6); and Social Function, 64.2 (±3.3). The EORTC questionnaires showed significant differences between males and females. Males had better body image scores. Sexual Function and Sexual Enjoyment were impaired in both males and females, but males had significantly higher scores and better roles in Physical and Sexual Functions. More sexual enjoyment problems in older ages were observed in both males and females. Having a colostomy was associated with a high level of emotional and sexual function impairment. The differing challenges between males and females should encourage us to design sex-specific interventions that improve the quality of life in this group of patients.

  16. The effects of strength training on cognitive performance in elderly women.

    PubMed

    Smolarek, André de Camargo; Ferreira, Luis Henrique Boiko; Mascarenhas, Luis Paulo Gomes; McAnulty, Steven R; Varela, Karla Daniele; Dangui, Mônica C; de Barros, Marcelo Paes; Utter, Alan C; Souza-Junior, Tácito P

    2016-01-01

    Aging is a degenerative process marked by recognized functional, physiological, and metabolic impairments, such as dynapenia and diminished cognitive capacity. Therefore, the search for innovative strategies to prevent/delay these physiological and cognitive disorders is essential to guarantee the independence and life quality of an elderly population. The aim of this work is to verify the effect of a 12-week resistance exercise program on the general physical aptitude and cognitive capacities of elderly and sedentary women. Twenty-nine women (65.87±5.69 years) were divided into two groups. The control group was composed of eight elderly women who met the same inclusion criteria of the study and the strength training group was composed of 29 elderly women who were subjected to a resistance exercise program defined by 12 upper and lower limb exercises combined in 3×10 repetitions with 1-minute interval between repetitions and two resting minutes between exercises (three times/week). Weight loads were fixed between 60% and 75% of the apparent 1 repetition maximum, which was estimated by the test of 10 maximum repetitions. The direct curl was performed for upper body strength evaluation with 2.3 kg dumbbells for 30 seconds, whereas the chair test was used for lower body evaluation (total sit-stand movements in 30 seconds). The cognitive capacities of subjects were evaluated by "The Montreal Cognitive Assessment" questionnaire. After 12 weeks, the elderly group showed significant increases in the average upper body strength (58%), lower body strength (68%), and cognitive capacity (19%). The present study demonstrated that regular resistance exercises could provide significant gains on the upper and lower body strength concomitant to positive improvements on cognitive capacities of elderly women, bringing enhanced life quality.

  17. Alkaline nanoparticle coatings improve resin bonding of 10-methacryloyloxydecyldihydrogenphosphate-conditioned zirconia

    PubMed Central

    Qian, Mengke; Lu, Zhicen; Chen, Chen; Zhang, Huaiqin; Xie, Haifeng

    2016-01-01

    Creating an alkaline environment prior to 10-methacryloyloxydecyldihydrogenphosphate (MDP) conditioning improves the resin bonding of zirconia. The present study evaluated the effects of four alkaline coatings with different water solubilities and pH values on resin bonding of MDP-conditioned zirconia. Two alkaline nanoparticle coatings were studied in particular. Thermodynamics calculations were performed to evaluate the strengths of MDP-tetragonal phase zirconia chemical bonds at different pH values. Zirconia surfaces with and without alkaline coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM)/energy dispersive spectrometer and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; alkaline coatings included NaOH, Ca(OH)2, nano-MgO, and nano-Zr(OH)4. A shear bond strength (SBS) test was performed to evaluate the effects of the four alkaline coatings on bonding; the alkaline coatings were applied to the surfaces prior to conditioning the zirconia with MDP-containing primers. Gibbs free energies of the MDP-tetragonal zirconia crystal model coordination reaction in different pH environments were −583.892 (NaOH), −569.048 [Ca(OH)2], −547.393 (MgO), and −530.279 kJ/mol [Zr(OH)4]. Thermodynamic calculations indicated that the alkaline coatings improved bonding in the following order: NaOH > Ca(OH)2 > MgO > Zr(OH)4. Statistical analysis of SBS tests showed a different result. SBSs were significantly different in groups that had different alkaline coatings, but it was not influenced by different primers. All four alkaline coatings increased SBS compared to control groups. Of the four coatings, nano-Zr(OH)4 and -MgO showed higher SBS. Therefore, preparing nano-Zr(OH)4 or -MgO coatings prior to conditioning with MDP-containing primers may potentially improve resin bonding of zirconia in the clinic. PMID:27785013

  18. 77 FR 31340 - Notice of Intent To Grant Partially Exclusive License of the United States Patent No. 7,824,569...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-05-25

    ... product as a natural soil amendment and seed coating that promotes more efficient growth of crops and... synthetic, petroleum-based polymers for soil amendment applications to achieve increased soil strength, reduced air transport, and decreased soil erosion. During processing, the biopolymer also can be...

  19. 77 FR 29619 - Notice of Intent to Grant Partially Exclusive License of the United States Patent No. 7,824,569...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-05-18

    ... formulation related to soil stabilization and dust control. DATES: Written objections must be filed not later... resulting biopolymer material can be used in place of synthetic, petroleum-based polymers for soil amendment applications to achieve increased soil strength, reduced air transport, and decreased soil erosion. During...

  20. 32 CFR 56.9 - Ensuring compliance with this part in Federal financial assistance programs and activities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... approval of these supplementary guidelines from the ASD(MRA&L), or designee, before issuing them. Prior to their issuance, the ASD(MRA&L), or designee, shall submit supplementary guidelines prepared pursuant to... Components deal with the employment of civilians in programs and activities subject to this part the ASD(MRA...

  1. 32 CFR 56.9 - Ensuring compliance with this part in Federal financial assistance programs and activities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... approval of these supplementary guidelines from the ASD(MRA&L), or designee, before issuing them. Prior to their issuance, the ASD(MRA&L), or designee, shall submit supplementary guidelines prepared pursuant to... Components deal with the employment of civilians in programs and activities subject to this part the ASD(MRA...

  2. 32 CFR 56.9 - Ensuring compliance with this part in Federal financial assistance programs and activities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... approval of these supplementary guidelines from the ASD(MRA&L), or designee, before issuing them. Prior to their issuance, the ASD(MRA&L), or designee, shall submit supplementary guidelines prepared pursuant to... Components deal with the employment of civilians in programs and activities subject to this part the ASD(MRA...

  3. Medical ethics and truth telling in the case of androgen insensitivity syndrome.

    PubMed Central

    Natarajan, A

    1996-01-01

    Should a physician always tell the truth to a patient? Is biomedical ethics too "politically correct" in certain situations? The second-place winner in the 1995 Logie Medical Ethics Essay Contest discusses whether telling the truth is the proper course for a physician dealing with certain patients. Images p569-a PMID:8630847

  4. Plastering. Pre-Apprenticeship Phase 2 Training. Student Training Modules.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Hamblen, Ron

    These 20 Student Training Modules on plastering comprise one of nine sets of self-paced learning modules developed for Pre-Apprenticeship Phase 2 Training. (A companion instructor's guide is available separately as CE 031 569.) The modules are designed to impart trade knowledge and skills to the student. Each module contains some or all of the…

  5. Building a Multinational Global Navigation Satellite System: An Initial Look

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2005-01-01

    Galileo and UMTS/IMT-2000,” IEEE, 0-7803-7467, March 2002, pp. 1602–1606. Holmes , J. K., and S. Raghavan (The Aerospace Corporation), “GPS Signal...Symposium, 2002, pp. 569–580. Martin-Neira, M., P. Colmenarejo, G. Ruffini, and C. Serra , “Altimetry Precision of 1 cm over a Pond Using the Wide-Lane

  6. 78 FR 29306 - Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; Florida; Infrastructure Requirements for the...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-05-20

    ... quality modeling/data. 110(a)(2)(L): Permitting fees. 110(a)(2)(M): Consultation/participation by affected... state statutes, 403.131, Injunctive relief, remedies and 120.569(n) (relating to emergency orders) which allow the state to seek injunctive relief to prevent irreparable damage to air quality. In addition, the...

  7. 78 FR 2990 - Bear Creek Storage Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Request Under Blanket Authorization

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2013-01-15

    ... Storage Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Request Under Blanket Authorization Take notice that on December 21, 2012, Bear Creek Storage Company, L.L.C. (Bear Creek), 569 Brookwood Village, Suite 749, Birmingham... this Application should be directed to Tina Hardy, Regulatory Manager, Bear Creek Storage Company, L.L...

  8. Midsouth Pulpwood Prices, 1988

    Treesearch

    John S. Vissage

    1990-01-01

    In 1988, the average price per cord of Midsouth roundwood pulpwood was $49.21, an increase of approximately 4 percent since 1987. The average price per green ton of chipped residues fell 3 percent to $20.99. The total expenditure by Midsouth pulpmills for pulpwood increased about one-half percent to $1,569 million in 1988. However, the real prices, in terms of...

  9. Early Intervention Practitioners' Self-Efficacy: A Measure and Its Applications

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Lamorey, S.; Wilcox, M.J.

    2005-01-01

    Teacher efficacy is linked to student achievement and classroom practices in general and special education, but has not been explored in early intervention (EI). Based upon the work of Gibson and Dembo [Gibson, S., & Dembo, M. H. (1984). Teacher efficacy: A contrast validation. Journal of Educational Psychology, 76(4) 569-582], a 15-item early…

  10. 76 FR 57987 - Notice of Public Information Collection(s) Being Submitted for Emergency Review and Approval to...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-09-19

    ... called ``Currently Under Review'', (3) click on the downward-pointing arrow in the ``Select Agency'' box... government; and not-for-profit institutions. Number of Respondents and Responses: 3,569,028 respondents; 3.... Nature and Extent of Confidentiality: The Commission will treat submissions pursuant to 47 CFR 11.61(a)(3...

  11. 75 FR 51989 - Southern LNG Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Application

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-08-24

    ... Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Application August 16, 2010. Take notice that on August 4, 2010, Southern LNG Company, L.L.C. (Southern LNG), Post Office Box 2563, Birmingham, Alabama 35202-2563, filed in the above.... Sheffield, Director--Rates and Regulatory, Southern LNG Company, L.L.C., 569 Brookwood Village, Suite 501...

  12. 76 FR 19827 - Disclosure of Rail-Interchange Commitments; Notice and Request for Comments

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2011-04-08

    ... about this collection in the Federal Register on December 22, 2010, at 75 FR 80,569. That notice allowed... in detail below. Comments may now be submitted to OMB concerning: (1) The accuracy of the Board's burden estimates; (2) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information collected; (3...

  13. Combating Poverty and Social Exclusion in France. OECD Economics Department Working Papers No. 569

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Jamet, Stephanie

    2007-01-01

    Reducing poverty and social exclusion is an important objective for all French governments. Even though conventionally measured poverty is in fact lower than in most other countries, it is still higher than can be easily accepted. The current policy approach involves a large number of measures tailored to different circumstances. Some policies…

  14. Apollo 16 liftoff

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1972-01-01

    The huge, 363-feet tall Apollo 16 (Spacecraft 113/Lunar Module 11/Saturn 511) space vehicle is launched from Pad A, Launch Complex 39, Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Florida, at 12:54:00.569 p.m., April 16, 1972. The launch is framed on the left by a large piece of dead wood in a body of water near the launch pad.

  15. Effectiveness of a Toothpaste with Low Fluoride Content Combined with Trimetaphosphate on Dental Biofilm and Enamel Demineralization in situ.

    PubMed

    Takeshita, Eliana M; Danelon, Marcelle; Castro, Luciene P; Sassaki, Kikue T; Delbem, Alberto C B

    2015-01-01

    The aim of the present study was to evaluate in situ whether a toothpaste with low fluoride associated with sodium trimetaphosphate (TMP) would provide similar effect to that of a 1,100 ppm F toothpaste. This crossover double-blind study consisted of 4 phases (14 days each), during which 10 volunteers wore oral appliances containing 4 enamel bovine blocks. The cariogenic challenge was performed by the application of a 20% sucrose solution (6×/day). The toothpaste treatments (2×/day) were: placebo, 500 ppm F, 500 ppm F plus 1% TMP, and 1,100 ppm F. At the end, enamel mineral loss and biofilm composition were analyzed. The toothpaste with 500 ppm F plus 1% TMP showed the lowest mineral loss (p < 0.05). Regarding the fluoride and calcium concentrations in the enamel and in the biofilm, there were no significant differences between 500 ppm F plus 1% TMP, and 1,100 ppm F toothpastes (p > 0.569), but they were significantly different when compared to toothpaste with 500 ppm F (p < 0.050). The addition of 1% TMP to a low-fluoride toothpaste reduces enamel demineralization in situ similar to a 1,100 ppm F toothpaste. © 2015 S. Karger AG, Basel.

  16. Clinical efficacy of a 1% Matricaria chamomile L. mouthwash and 0.12% chlorhexidine for gingivitis control in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances.

    PubMed

    Goes, Paula; Dutra, Caio S; Lisboa, Mário R P; Gondim, Delane V; Leitão, Renata; Brito, Gerly A C; Rego, Rodrigo O

    2016-01-01

    This pilot study evaluated the clinical efficacy of a mouthwash containing 1% Matricaria chamomilla L. (MTC) extract in reducing gingival inflammation and plaque formation in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with fixed appliances. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study enrolled a total of 30 males and females (age, 10-40 years) with fixed orthodontic appliances and a minimum of 20 natural teeth. The participants were allocated to three groups (n = 10 each) and asked to rinse with 15 mL of a placebo, 0.12% chlorhexidine (CHX), or 1% MTC mouthwash, immediately after brushing for 1 min, in the morning and evening, for 15 days. Data (mean ± SD) on visible plaque index (VPI) and gingival bleeding index (GBI) were recorded on days 1 and 15. The placebo group exhibited increases in VPI and GBI (10.2% and 23.1%, respectively) from day 1 to day 15. As compared with placebo, VPI and GBI significantly decreased in the MTC group (-25.6% and -29.9%, respectively) and the CHX group (-39.9% and -32.0%, respectively). In summary, MTC reduced biofilm accumulation and gingival bleeding in patients with gingivitis, probably because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities.(J Oral Sci 58, 569-574, 2016).

  17. The comparison of the effect of Transactional Model-based Teaching and Ordinary Education Curriculum- based Teaching programs on stress management among teachers.

    PubMed

    Mazloomy Mahmoodabad, Seyed Saeed; Mohammadi, Maryam; Zadeh, Davood Shojaei; Barkhordari, Abolfazl; Hosaini, Fatemeh; Kaveh, Mohammad Hossain; Malehi, Amal Saki; Rahiminegad, Mohammadkazem

    2014-04-09

    Regarding the effect of teachers' stress on teaching and learning processes, the researchers decided to provide a stress management program based on Transactional Model to solve this teachers' problems. Thus, this study is going to investigate the effect of Transactional Model- based Teaching and the Ordinary Education Curriculum- based Teaching programs on Yazd teachers. The study was a semi- experimental one. The sample population (200 people) was selected using categorized method. The data were collected via PSS Questionnaire and a questionnaire which its validity and reliability had been proved. Eight teaching sessions were hold for 60-90 min. Evaluation was performed in three steps. The data were described and analyzed using SPSS software version 15. Value of P<0.05 was considered as significant. The participants were 200 people of Yazd teachers of primary schools. Mean age of group 1 and 2 was 42.05±5.69 and 41.25±5.89 respectively. Independent T- Test indicated a significant mean score (p=0.000) due to perceived stress of interference groups in post interference step and follow-up one respectively. Results showed a decreasing effect of both programs, but the Transactional Model- based interference indicated to decrease stress more than the other.

  18. Evaluation of the exercise workload of broadcast calisthenics for children and adolescents aged 11-17 years.

    PubMed

    Cui, Yupeng; Liu, Xiaoyan; Liu, Xiaoran; Wu, Jian; Zhao, Minghua; Ren, Jingping; Yang, Junqing; Gu, Fang; Wang, Chao

    2011-02-01

    The aim of this study was to examine the exercise workload of the 3rd Series of National Broadcast Calisthenics for Elementary and Middle School Students. Altogether, 120 students aged 11-17 years were randomly selected from elementary and middle schools to participate in the study. Each participant performed a cycle ergometer test to obtain maximum oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O(2max)) and maximum heart rate values. In the laboratory, oxygen uptake ([Vdot]O(2)), metabolic equivalents (METs), and heart rate were recorded continuously throughout a calisthenics session performed by the participants. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) were also recorded. Throughout the calisthenics session, mean percentage of [Vdot]O(2) reserve varied from 30.7% to 41.2%, mean percentage of heart rate reserve from 39.0% to 56.9%, and mean RPE from 9.0 to 10.4. The mean energy cost during most of the segments across the four routines of calisthenics was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than 3.0 METs. In conclusion, the exercise workload of the 3rd Series of National Broadcast Calisthenics for Elementary and Middle School Students session varied from low to moderate. As part of a school-based physical activity intervention project, calisthenics would help to promote an active lifestyle and health in children and adolescents.

  19. In vitro study of stimulation effect on endothelialization by a copper bearing cobalt alloy.

    PubMed

    Jin, Shujing; Qi, Xun; Wang, Tongmin; Ren, Ling; Yang, Ke; Zhong, Hongshan

    2018-02-01

    Endothelialization is an important process after stenting in coronary artery. Recovery of the injured site timely can reduce the neointima formation and platelet absorbance, leading to a lower risk of in-stent restenosis. Copper is known to be critical in vascular construction. Thus a combination of copper with stent materials is a meaningful attempt. A copper bearing L605-Cu cobalt alloy was prepared and its effect on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was evaluated in vitro in this study. It was found that HUVECs attached and stretched better on the surface of L605-Cu compared with L605, and the apoptosis of cells was decreased simultaneously. The migration and tube formation of HUVECs were also enhanced by the extract of L605-Cu. Furthermore, L605-Cu increased the mRNA expression of VEGF in HUVECs significantly. However it had no effect on the secretion of NO or mRNA expression of eNOS. The result of blood clotting test indicated that L605-Cu had better blood compatibility. These results above have demonstrated that the L605-Cu alloy is promising to be a new stent material with function of accelerating endothelialization. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 561-569, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  20. Long-term single-center experience of defibrillator therapy in children and adolescents.

    PubMed

    Frommeyer, Gerrit; Feder, Sebastian; Bettin, Markus; Debus, Volker; Köbe, Julia; Reinke, Florian; Uebing, Anselm; Eckardt, Lars; Kehl, Hans Gerd

    2018-06-01

    Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) systems are established therapy for prevention of sudden cardiac death. Long-term data on ICD systems in children and adolescents is rare. The present study displays a long-term single-center follow-up of children and adolescents with ICD systems. The present study represents a single-center experience of patients younger than 18 years who received an ICD (n = 58). Follow-up data included in-house follow-up as well as examinations of collaborating specialists. Mean age at implantation was 14.0 ± 3.3 years and 33 patients (56.9%) were male. A transvenous ICD system was implanted in 54 patients (93.1%). In 33 patients (56.9%) electrical heart disease or idiopathic ventricular fibrillation represented the underlying condition of ICD implantation. Median follow-up duration was 70 months (45; 94). 3 patients (5.2%) died during the observation period. None of these deaths was associated with ICD failure. Appropriate shocks occurred in 32 patients (55.2%). Inappropriate shock delivery was recorded in 17 patients (29.3%). Supraventricular tachycardia represented the most frequent cause of inappropriate shock delivery (9 patients, 52.9%). T-wave oversensing led to inappropriate shock delivery in 3 patients (17.6%). In 5 patients (29.4%), lead failure caused inappropriate shock delivery. Of note, during follow-up lead failure was reported in 15 patients (25.9%) leading to surgical revision. ICD therapy in children and adolescents is effective for prevention of sudden cardiac death. The rate of appropriate shock deliveries was significantly higher as compared with large ICD trials. Inappropriate therapies occurred frequently. In particular supraventricular tachycardia, T-wave oversensing and lead failures were responsible for these episodes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  1. Analysis of a five year experience of permanent pacemaker implantation at a Nigerian Teaching Hospital: need for a national database

    PubMed Central

    Falase, Bode; Sanusi, Michael; Johnson, Adeyemi; Akinrinlola, Fola; Ajayi, Reina; Oke, David

    2013-01-01

    Introduction Permanent pacemaker implantation is available in Nigeria. There is however no national registry or framework for pacemaker data collection. A pacemaker database has been developed in our institution and the results are analyzed in this study. Methods The study period was between January 2008 and December 2012. Patient data was extracted from a prospectively maintained database which was designed to include the fields of the European pacemaker patient identification code. Results Of the 51 pacemaker implants done, there were 29 males (56.9%) and 22 females (43.1%). Mean age was 68.2±12.7 years. Clinical indications were syncopal attacks in 25 patients (49%), dizzy spells in 15 patients (29.4%), bradycardia with no symptoms in 10 patients (17.7%) and dyspnoea in 2 patients (3.9%). The ECG diagnosis was complete heart block in 27 patients (53%), second degree heart block in 19 patients (37.2%) and sick sinus syndrome with bradycardia in 5 patients (9.8%). Pacemaker modes used were ventricular pacing in 29 patients (56.9%) and dual chamber pacing in 22 patients (43.1%). Files have been closed in 20 patients (39.2%) and 31 patients (60.8%) are still being followed up with median follow up of 26 months, median of 5 visits and 282 pacemaker checks done. Complications seen during follow up were 3 lead displacements (5.9%), 3 pacemaker infections (5.9%), 2 pacemaker pocket erosions (3.9%), and 1 pacemaker related death (2%). There were 5 non-pacemaker related deaths (9.8%). Conclusion Pacemaker data has been maintained for 5 years. We urge other implanting institutions in Nigeria to maintain similar databases and work towards establishment of a national pacemaker registry. PMID:24498465

  2. Injuries due to human and animal aggression in humans.

    PubMed

    Łabęcka, Marzena; Lorkiewicz-Muszyńska, Dorota E; Przystańska, Agnieszka; Kondrusiewicz, Krzysztof

    2013-01-01

    People breed animals, professionally take care of them, and work with them. To live with animals, however, it is necessary to know their behaviour and habits, as well as fears. Ignorance of this knowledge may lead to tragedy for the victim (a person), as well as for the beast (animal). Then, nobody cares whether the animal behaved itself or not in accordance with its nature. The aim of the presented study is to compare the rate of animal aggression in relation to cases of documented aggression towards humans. The victims were investigated according to the age, gender and types of injuries caused by animal bites. The protocols of autopsies (2,218) and medical-legal examinations (4,569) performed from 2004-2009 in the Department of Forensic Sciences in Poznań were analyzed. The selected data was studied using Microsoft Office Excel 2007 for Windows. Analysis revealed the presence of animal bite injuries in less than 1% of the deceased victims of aggression. The number of individuals who died as a result of animal bites varied from 1-4 a year, and in all cases these were postmortem injuries. Analysis of injuries among surviving victims of aggression showed animal bite injuries were present in 41 out of 4,569 victims, almost equally among males and females. Moreover, in 25 victims the bite injuries recognized as human were found. The majority of animal bites occurred in adults. The medium injuries were the most frequent in the animal bite victims. Animal aggression is a marginal problem considering all cases of aggression towards humans. In contrast to the aggression of humans towards other humans, this is a very rare cause of human death or even major injury.

  3. C-reactive protein, marker for evaluation of systemic inflammatory response in preeclampsia.

    PubMed

    Mihu, D; Costin, N; Mihu, Carmen Mihaela; Blaga, Ligia Daniela; Pop, Raluca Bogdana

    2008-01-01

    Determination by a high sensitivity technique of serum C-reactive protein (CRP), a sensitive marker of inflammation in women with preeclampsia compared to normal pregnancy and investigation of the relationship between CRP and the severity of the preeclamptic syndrome. The study included 40 women with preeclampsia and 40 control subjects with normal pregnancies in the last trimester of pregnancy. The serum CRP concentration was determined using the universal high sensitivity immunoturbidimetric assay. The serum CRP concentration was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in preclampsia (5.69 +/- 1.8 mg/L) compared to normal pregnancy (2.89 +/- 1.2 mg/L). In women with preeclampsia, CRP correlated positively and significantly with diastolic blood pressure, proteinuria and uric acid levels. Maternal CRP values also correlated negatively and significantly with fetal weight at birth. Our results demonstrate that serum CRP is increased in preeclampsia and represents a marker of the severity of the preeclamptic syndrome and of fetal weight at birth. Taking into consideration these observations and the fact that CRP testing is rapid and relatively inexpensive, we recommend the use of this acute phase reagent in clinical practice, in all women with preeclampsia in order to establish the prognosis of the disease.

  4. Internet embeddedness: links with online health information seeking, expectancy value/quality of health information websites, and Internet usage patterns.

    PubMed

    Leung, Louis

    2008-10-01

    To see how the Internet is actually embedded in our lives, this exploratory study examines how Internet users search the Web for important information, especially health or medical information, to make critical decisions, and the perception of how intimately our lives are embedded in the Internet intersects with patterns of health information seeking online and the expected quality of health information websites. Data from a probability sample of 569 Internet users found four types of commonly sought health information clusters online which included information on (a) health improvement, (b) medical treatment, (c) family health, and (d) health issues that are difficult to talk about. Results also show that behavior or behavioral intentions in health information seeking are in fact either a function of value expectancy or the evaluation of health information websites. More importantly, people who often go to the Internet for health information and have high expectations of the value and quality of health information websites (especially in terms of reliability, relevance/context, and interaction) tend to be those who are more likely to perceive the Internet as playing an important role in life decisions or rate the Internet as more embedded in their lives.

  5. Optimization of Urea-EnFET Based on Ta2O5 Layer with Post Annealing

    PubMed Central

    Lue, Cheng-En; Yu, Ting-Chun; Yang, Chia-Ming; Pijanowska, Dorota G.; Lai, Chao-Sung

    2011-01-01

    In this study, the urea-enzymatic field effect transistors (EnFETs) were investigated based on pH-ion sensitive field effect transistors (ISFETs) with tantalum pentoxide (Ta2O5) sensing membranes. In addition, a post N2 annealing was used to improve the sensing properties. At first, the pH sensitivity, hysteresis, drift, and light induced drift of the ISFETs were evaluated. After the covalent bonding process and urease immobilization, the urea sensitivity of the EnFETs were also investigated and compared with the conventional Si3N4 sensing layer. The ISFETs and EnFETs with annealed Ta2O5 sensing membranes showed the best responses, including the highest pH sensitivity (56.9 mV/pH, from pH 2 to pH 12) and also corresponded to the highest urea sensitivity (61 mV/pCurea, from 1 mM to 7.5 mM). Besides, the non-ideal factors of pH hysteresis, time drift, and light induced drift of the annealed samples were also lower than the controlled Ta2O5 and Si3N4 sensing membranes. PMID:22163862

  6. Optimization of urea-EnFET based on Ta2O5 layer with post annealing.

    PubMed

    Lue, Cheng-En; Yu, Ting-Chun; Yang, Chia-Ming; Pijanowska, Dorota G; Lai, Chao-Sung

    2011-01-01

    In this study, the urea-enzymatic field effect transistors (EnFETs) were investigated based on pH-ion sensitive field effect transistors (ISFETs) with tantalum pentoxide (Ta(2)O(5)) sensing membranes. In addition, a post N(2) annealing was used to improve the sensing properties. At first, the pH sensitivity, hysteresis, drift, and light induced drift of the ISFETs were evaluated. After the covalent bonding process and urease immobilization, the urea sensitivity of the EnFETs were also investigated and compared with the conventional Si(3)N(4) sensing layer. The ISFETs and EnFETs with annealed Ta(2)O(5) sensing membranes showed the best responses, including the highest pH sensitivity (56.9 mV/pH, from pH 2 to pH 12) and also corresponded to the highest urea sensitivity (61 mV/pC(urea), from 1 mM to 7.5 mM). Besides, the non-ideal factors of pH hysteresis, time drift, and light induced drift of the annealed samples were also lower than the controlled Ta(2)O(5) and Si(3)N(4) sensing membranes.

  7. Overweight and Body Image Perception in Adolescents with Triage of Eating Disorders

    PubMed Central

    Franceschini, Sylvia do Carmo Castro; Hermsdorff, Helen Hermana Miranda; Priore, Silvia Eloiza

    2017-01-01

    Purpose To verify the influence of overweight and alteration in the perception of the corporal image during the triage of eating disorders. Method A food disorder triage was performed in adolescents with 10 to 19 years of age using the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT-26), Children's Eating Attitudes Test (ChEAT), and Bulimic Investigatory Test Edinburgh (BITE), as well as a nutritional status evaluation. The perception of body image was evaluated in a subsample of adolescents with 10 to 14 years of age, using the Brazilian Silhouette Scale. The project was approved by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the Federal University of Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Results The prevalence of eating disorder triage was 11.4% (n = 242) for the 2,123 adolescents evaluated. Overweight was present in 21.1% (n = 447) of the students, being more prevalent in the early adolescence phase, which presented levels of distortion of 56.9% (n = 740) and dissatisfaction of 79.3% (n = 1031). Body dissatisfaction was considered as a risk factor, increasing by more than 13 times the chance of TA screening. Conclusion Overweight was correlated with the ED triage and body dissatisfaction was considered as a risk factor, increasing the chances of these disorders by more than 13 times. PMID:28856236

  8. 32 CFR 56.9 - Ensuring compliance with this part in Federal financial assistance programs and activities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ..., or distributing memoranda or other written communications. (2) If a recipient publishes or uses and... design of the project would provide service on a nondiscriminatory basis, in conformity with § 56.8(c... granted for good cause by the ASD(MRA&L), or designee. (v) Require the recipient to maintain a log of all...

  9. 32 CFR 56.9 - Ensuring compliance with this part in Federal financial assistance programs and activities.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ..., or distributing memoranda or other written communications. (2) If a recipient publishes or uses and... design of the project would provide service on a nondiscriminatory basis, in conformity with § 56.8(c... granted for good cause by the ASD(MRA&L), or designee. (v) Require the recipient to maintain a log of all...

  10. 75 FR 3230 - Sunshine Act Meeting Notice

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2010-01-20

    ...-1051-000 ISO New England Inc. and New England Power Pool. E-8 RM08-7-002 Modification of Interchange... Systems Power Pool Inc. E-14 EL09-40-000 Southwest Power Pool, Inc. E-15 EL10-7-000 Power and Water... Section 23 of the Natural Gas Act. G-2 RP06-569-000, RP07-376-000 Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line...

  11. Reported School Experiences of Young People Living with Sickle Cell Disorder in England

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Dyson, Simon Martin; Abuateya, Hala; Atkin, Karl; Culley, Lorraine; Dyson, Sue Elizabeth; Rowley, Dave

    2010-01-01

    A survey of 569 young people with sickle cell disorder (SCD) in England has found such pupils miss considerable periods of time from school, typically in short periods of two or three days. One in eight has school absences equating to government-defined "persistent absence". Students with SCD report that they are not helped to catch up…

  12. Costs of Producing Milk, 1975-84. Agricultural Economic Report Number 569.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Betts, Carolyn

    Costs of producing milk rose 53 percent between 1975 and 1984 to $13.57 per hundredweight, whereas cash (out-of-pocket) costs rose 56 percent to $10.64 per hundredweight. Cash receipts, which measure gross production value, peaked in 1981 at $14.94 per hundredweight compared with $9.23 in 1975. Production costs in the Pacific region were more than…

  13. Self-Esteem and Smoking in Youth--Muddying the Waters?

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Glendinning, Anthony

    2002-01-01

    Longitudinal analysis by McGee and Williams (2000, "Journal of Adolescence", 23, 569-582, doi: 10.1006/jado.2000.0344) indicates that global self-esteem is not related to substance use in early youth. In the case of tobacco use Glendinning and Inglis (1999, "Journal of Adolescence", 22, 673-682, doi: 10.1006/jado.1999.0262) have looked at the…

  14. A multisensor analysis of Nimbus-5 data recorded on 22 January 1973. [measurement of rainfall rates for east coast of the United States

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Allison, L. J.; Rodgers, E. B.; Wilheit, T. T.; Wexler, R.

    1975-01-01

    The Nimbus 5 meteorological satellite has a full complement of radiation sensors. Data from these sensors were analyzed and intercompared for orbits 569 and 570. The electrically-scanning microwave radiometer (19.35-GHz region) delineated rain areas over the ocean off the U.S. east coast, in good agreement with radar imagery, and permitted the estimation of rainfall rates in this region. Residual ground water, from abnormal rainfall in the lower Mississippi Valley, was indicated under clear sky conditions by soil brightness temperature values in the Nimbus 5 electrically scanning microwave radiometer and U.S. Air Force Data Acquisition and Processing Program infrared data. The temperature-humidity infrared radiometer (6.7 micron and 11 micron) showed the height and spatial configuration of frontal clouds along the east coast and outlined the confluence of a polar jet stream with a broad subtropical jet stream along the U.S. Gulf Coast. Temperature profiles from three vertical temperature sounders are found to be in good agreement with related radiosonde ascents along orbit 569 from the subtropics to the Arctic Circle.

  15. [The everyday life of survivors. The quality of life of hospice workers].

    PubMed

    Révay, Edit; Kegye, Adrienne; Zana, Ágnes; Hegedűs, Katalin

    2016-06-19

    Each year, the number of hospice services and terminally ill patients increase while the number of hospice workers is falling. The intensification of the physical and mental burdens of the latter can lead to burnout and the fluctuation of the workers. The aim of the authors was to survey the physical and mental state of hospice workers, as well as the risk of burnout and coping strategies. A questionnaire survey in hospice experts and volunteers (n ≈ 1500) based on the Hungarostudy survey was performed. Those who filled in the questionnaire (n = 195) had on average 1.86 workplaces and 45.8% of them reported working 12 or more hours a day. Most often, they suffered from lack of energy (65.1%), disturbing physical pain (46.9%), sleeping (56.9%) and digestion (35%), they considered themselves overweight (56.9%) and they were occupied with work problems even at bedtime (72.8%). Hospice workers are overloaded, they have physical and mental symptoms and they are characterized by compassion fatigue. At the same time, they are also characterized by compassion satisfaction as an ability to accept appreciation for the caretaking.

  16. Integrated Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis Control over Five Years on Kome Island, Tanzania

    PubMed Central

    Kaatano, Godfrey M.; Siza, Julius E.; Mwanga, Joseph R.; Min, Duk-Yong; Yong, Tai-Soon; Chai, Jong-Yil; Ko, Yunsuk; Chang, Su Young; Kullaya, Cyril M.; Rim, Han-Jong; Changalucha, John M.; Eom, Keeseon S.

    2015-01-01

    Integrated control strategies are important for sustainable control of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis, despite their challenges for their effective implementation. With the support of Good Neighbors International in collaboration with National Institute of Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania, integrated control applying mass drug administration (MDA), health education using PHAST, and improved safe water supply has been implemented on Kome Island over 5 years for controlling schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). Baseline surveys for schistosomiasis and STHs was conducted before implementation of any integrated control strategies, followed by 4 cross-sectional follow-up surveys on randomly selected samples of schoolchildren and adults in 10 primary schools and 8 villages, respectively, on Kome islands. Those follow-up surveys were conducted for impact evaluation after introduction of control strategies interventions in the study area. Five rounds of MDA have been implemented from 2009 along with PHAST and improved water supply with pumped wells as other control strategies for complementing MDA. A remarkable steady decline of schistosomiasis and STHs was observed from 2009 to 2012 with significant trends in their prevalence decline, and thereafter infection rate has remained at a low sustainable control. By the third follow-up survey in 2012, Schistosoma mansoni infection prevalence was reduced by 90.5% and hookworm by 93.3% among schoolchildren while in adults the corresponding reduction was 83.2% and 56.9%, respectively. Integrated control strategies have successfully reduced S. mansoni and STH infection status to a lower level. This study further suggests that monitoring and evaluation is a crucial component of any large-scale STH and schistosomiasis intervention. PMID:26537032

  17. Integrated Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminthiasis Control over Five Years on Kome Island, Tanzania.

    PubMed

    Kaatano, Godfrey M; Siza, Julius E; Mwanga, Joseph R; Min, Duk-Yong; Yong, Tai-Soon; Chai, Jong-Yil; Ko, Yunsuk; Chang, Su Young; Kullaya, Cyril M; Rim, Han-Jong; Changalucha, John M; Eom, Keeseon S

    2015-10-01

    Integrated control strategies are important for sustainable control of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis, despite their challenges for their effective implementation. With the support of Good Neighbors International in collaboration with National Institute of Medical Research, Mwanza, Tanzania, integrated control applying mass drug administration (MDA), health education using PHAST, and improved safe water supply has been implemented on Kome Island over 5 years for controlling schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs). Baseline surveys for schistosomiasis and STHs was conducted before implementation of any integrated control strategies, followed by 4 cross-sectional follow-up surveys on randomly selected samples of schoolchildren and adults in 10 primary schools and 8 villages, respectively, on Kome islands. Those follow-up surveys were conducted for impact evaluation after introduction of control strategies interventions in the study area. Five rounds of MDA have been implemented from 2009 along with PHAST and improved water supply with pumped wells as other control strategies for complementing MDA. A remarkable steady decline of schistosomiasis and STHs was observed from 2009 to 2012 with significant trends in their prevalence decline, and thereafter infection rate has remained at a low sustainable control. By the third follow-up survey in 2012, Schistosoma mansoni infection prevalence was reduced by 90.5% and hookworm by 93.3% among schoolchildren while in adults the corresponding reduction was 83.2% and 56.9%, respectively. Integrated control strategies have successfully reduced S. mansoni and STH infection status to a lower level. This study further suggests that monitoring and evaluation is a crucial component of any large-scale STH and schistosomiasis intervention.

  18. Prospective Evaluation of a Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry System in a Hospital Clinical Microbiology Laboratory for Identification of Bacteria and Yeasts: a Bench-by-Bench Study for Assessing the Impact on Time to Identification and Cost-Effectiveness

    PubMed Central

    Tan, K. E.; Ellis, B. C.; Lee, R.; Stamper, P. D.; Zhang, S. X.

    2012-01-01

    Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has been found to be an accurate, rapid, and inexpensive method for the identification of bacteria and yeasts. Previous evaluations have compared the accuracy, time to identification, and costs of the MALDI-TOF MS method against standard identification systems or commercial panels. In this prospective study, we compared a protocol incorporating MALDI-TOF MS (MALDI protocol) with the current standard identification protocols (standard protocol) to determine the performance in actual practice using a specimen-based, bench-by-bench approach. The potential impact on time to identification (TTI) and costs had MALDI-TOF MS been the first-line identification method was quantitated. The MALDI protocol includes supplementary tests, notably for Streptococcus pneumoniae and Shigella, and indications for repeat MALDI-TOF MS attempts, often not measured in previous studies. A total of 952 isolates (824 bacterial isolates and 128 yeast isolates) recovered from 2,214 specimens were assessed using the MALDI protocol. Compared with standard protocols, the MALDI protocol provided identifications 1.45 days earlier on average (P < 0.001). In our laboratory, we anticipate that the incorporation of the MALDI protocol can reduce reagent and labor costs of identification by $102,424 or 56.9% within 12 months. The model included the fixed annual costs of the MALDI-TOF MS, such as the cost of protein standards and instrument maintenance, and the annual prevalence of organisms encountered in our laboratory. This comprehensive cost analysis model can be generalized to other moderate- to high-volume laboratories. PMID:22855510

  19. Retrospective analysis of outcomes following inferior vena cava (IVC) filter placement in a managed care population.

    PubMed

    Everhart, Damian; Vaccaro, Jamieson; Worley, Karen; Rogstad, Teresa L; Seleznick, Mitchel

    2017-08-01

    The role of inferior vena cava filter (IVC) filters for prevention of pulmonary embolism (PE) is controversial. This study evaluated outcomes of IVC filter placement in a managed care population. This retrospective cohort study evaluated data for individuals with Humana healthcare coverage 2013-2014. The study population included 435 recipients of prophylactic IVC filters, 4376 recipients of therapeutic filters, and two control groups, each matched to filter recipients. Patients were followed for up to 2 years. Post-index anticoagulant use, mortality, filter removal, device-related complications, and all-cause utilization. Adjusted regression analyses showed a positive association between filter placement and anticoagulant use at 3 months: odds ratio (ORs) 3.403 (95% CI 1.912-6.059), prophylactic; OR, 1.356 (95% CI 1.164-1.58), therapeutic. Filters were removed in 15.67% of prophylactic and 5.69% of therapeutic filter cases. Complication rates were higher with prophylactic procedures than with therapeutic procedures and typically exceeded 2% in the prophylactic group. Each form of filter placement was associated with increases in all-cause hospitalization (regression coefficient 0.295 [95% CI 0.093-0.498], prophylactic; 0.673 [95% CI 0.547-0.798], therapeutic) and readmissions (OR 2.444 [95% CI 1.298-4.602], prophylactic; 2.074 [95% CI 1.644-2.616], therapeutic). IVC filter placement in this managed care population was associated with increased use of anticoagulants and greater healthcare utilization compared to controls, low rates of retrieval, and notable rates of device-related complications, with effects especially pronounced in assessments of prophylactic filters. These findings underscore the need for appropriate use of IVC filters.

  20. Evaluation of radiographs, clinical signs and symptoms associated with pulp canal obliteration: an aid to treatment decision.

    PubMed

    Oginni, Adeleke O; Adekoya-Sofowora, Comfort A; Kolawole, Kikelomo A

    2009-12-01

    Pulp canal obliteration (PCO) is a sequela of tooth trauma. The dental clinician faced with this condition has to make a difficult decision. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical signs and symptoms associated with teeth with PCO and to assess the status of the periapical tissues using the periapical index (PAI) as an aid in making a treatment decision. The study included teeth diagnosed with PCO in patients with a history of traumatic injury to the involved teeth. Histories of associated signs and symptoms including pain, swelling and drainage from a sinus tract were elicited. Tooth color, sensibility to electric pulp testing, mobility and percussion tenderness were recorded. The periapical status was assessed using the PAI. Two hundred and seventy-six teeth were diagnosed with PCO. One hundred and fifty-seven (56.9%) and 119 (43.1%) demonstrated partial or total PCO, respectively. Yellow discoloration presented most frequently, occurring in 186 (67.4%) teeth. Sixty-two (33.3%) of these had developed periapical lesions and reacted negatively to sensibility testing. Fifty-seven (30.7%) of these teeth presented radiographically with a normal periapical appearance and reacted normally to sensibility testing, whereas 67 (36.0%) presented with small changes in the periapical bone pattern and reacted in the high normal range to sensibility testing. Teeth with PAI scores < or =2 presented with occasional spontaneous pain. Teeth with PAI scores > or =3 presented with clinical symptoms and signs ranging from pain on percussion to spontaneous pain, and slight swelling to sinus tract drainage. Based on the findings of this study, endodontic treatment should be initiated in teeth with tenderness to percussion, PAI scores > or =3 and a negative response to sensibility testing.

  1. Employment and financial burden of families with preschool children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders in urban China: results from a descriptive study.

    PubMed

    Ou, Jian-Jun; Shi, Li-Juan; Xun, Guang-Lei; Chen, Chen; Wu, Ren-Rong; Luo, Xue-Rong; Zhang, Feng-Yu; Zhao, Jing-Ping

    2015-01-22

    Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects many aspects of family life, such as social and economic burden. Little investigation of this phenomenon has been carried out in China. We designed this study to evaluate the employment and financial burdens of families with ASD-diagnosed preschoolers. Four hundred and fifty-nine nuclear families of children with ASD, 418 with some other disability (OD) and 424 with typically developing (TD) children were recruited for this study. Employment and financial burdens of families were evaluated using a structured questionnaire; logistic regression was used to examine differences in job change measures by group, and ordinal logistic regression was used to investigate the association between household income and group. Fifty-eight percent of families with ASD children and 19% of families with OD children reported that childcare problems had greatly affected their employment decisions, compared with 9% of families with TD children (p < 0.001). Age of child, parental education and parental age notwithstanding, having a child with ASD and having a child with OD were both associated with increased odds of reporting that childcare greatly interfered with employment (ASD, OR: 15.936; OD, OR: 2.502; all p < 0.001) and decreased the odds of living in a higher-income household (ASD, estimate = -1.271; OD, estimate = -0.569; all p < 0.001). The average loss of annual income associated with having a child with ASD was Chinese RenMinBi (RMB) 44,077 ($7,226), compared with RMB 20,788 ($3,408) for families of OD children. ASD is associated with severe employment and financial burdens, much more than for OD, in families with preschool children.

  2. Cost-Effectiveness of Pertuzumab in Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2–Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer

    PubMed Central

    Qian, Yushen; Pollom, Erqi L.; King, Martin T.; Dudley, Sara A.; Shaffer, Jenny L.; Chang, Daniel T.; Gibbs, Iris C.; Goldhaber-Fiebert, Jeremy D.; Horst, Kathleen C.

    2016-01-01

    Purpose The Clinical Evaluation of Pertuzumab and Trastuzumab (CLEOPATRA) study showed a 15.7-month survival benefit with the addition of pertuzumab to docetaxel and trastuzumab (THP) as first-line treatment for patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) –overexpressing metastatic breast cancer. We performed a cost-effectiveness analysis to assess the value of adding pertuzumab. Patient and Methods We developed a decision-analytic Markov model to evaluate the cost effectiveness of docetaxel plus trastuzumab (TH) with or without pertuzumab in US patients with metastatic breast cancer. The model followed patients weekly over their remaining lifetimes. Health states included stable disease, progressing disease, hospice, and death. Transition probabilities were based on the CLEOPATRA study. Costs reflected the 2014 Medicare rates. Health state utilities were the same as those used in other recent cost-effectiveness studies of trastuzumab and pertuzumab. Outcomes included health benefits expressed as discounted quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), costs in US dollars, and cost effectiveness expressed as an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio. One- and multiway deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses explored the effects of specific assumptions. Results Modeled median survival was 39.4 months for TH and 56.9 months for THP. The addition of pertuzumab resulted in an additional 1.81 life-years gained, or 0.62 QALYs, at a cost of $472,668 per QALY gained. Deterministic sensitivity analysis showed that THP is unlikely to be cost effective even under the most favorable assumptions, and probabilistic sensitivity analysis predicted 0% chance of cost effectiveness at a willingness to pay of $100,000 per QALY gained. Conclusion THP in patients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer is unlikely to be cost effective in the United States. PMID:26351332

  3. Intranasal delivery of quercetin-loaded mucoadhesive nanoemulsion for treatment of cerebral ischaemia.

    PubMed

    Ahmad, Niyaz; Ahmad, Rizwan; Naqvi, Atta Abbas; Alam, Md Aftab; Ashafaq, Mohammad; Abdur Rub, Rehan; Ahmad, Farhan Jalees

    2018-06-01

    Quercetin (QUR), as an antioxidant flavonoid, exhibits potential role in the amelioration of cerebral ischaemia; however, poor solubility as well as oral absorption results low serum and tissue levels for this drug. To enhance bioavailability, this study aims to prepare QUR nanoemulsions and administer via non-invasive nasal route in order to evaluate the drug targeting in brain. Quercetin mucoadhesive nanoemulsion (QMNE) was prepared (ionic gelation method) and optimized using various parameters, that is, particle size, entrapment efficiency, zeta potential and ex vivo permeation study. The results observed for optimized QMNE were as follows: mean globule size (91.63 ± 4.36 nm), zeta potential (-17.26 ± 1.04 mV), drug content (99.84 ± 0.34%) and viscosity (121 ± 13 cp). To evaluate the extent of bioavailability for QMNE via post-intranasal (i.n.) administration, Ultra performance liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy (UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS)-based bioanalytical method was developed and validated for pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, brain-targeting efficiency (9333.33 ± 39.39%) and brain drug-targeting potential (2181.83 ± 5.69%) which revealed enhanced QUR brain bioavailability as compared to intravenous administration (i.v.). Furthermore, improved neurobehavioral activity (locomotor and grip strength), histopathology and reduced infarction volume effects were observed in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO)-induced cerebral ischemic rats model after i.n. administration of QMNE. This study supports a significant role for QMNE in terms of high brain-targeting potential and formulation efficiency due to ease of access and effective targeting in brain.

  4. Prospective evaluation of a matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry system in a hospital clinical microbiology laboratory for identification of bacteria and yeasts: a bench-by-bench study for assessing the impact on time to identification and cost-effectiveness.

    PubMed

    Tan, K E; Ellis, B C; Lee, R; Stamper, P D; Zhang, S X; Carroll, K C

    2012-10-01

    Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has been found to be an accurate, rapid, and inexpensive method for the identification of bacteria and yeasts. Previous evaluations have compared the accuracy, time to identification, and costs of the MALDI-TOF MS method against standard identification systems or commercial panels. In this prospective study, we compared a protocol incorporating MALDI-TOF MS (MALDI protocol) with the current standard identification protocols (standard protocol) to determine the performance in actual practice using a specimen-based, bench-by-bench approach. The potential impact on time to identification (TTI) and costs had MALDI-TOF MS been the first-line identification method was quantitated. The MALDI protocol includes supplementary tests, notably for Streptococcus pneumoniae and Shigella, and indications for repeat MALDI-TOF MS attempts, often not measured in previous studies. A total of 952 isolates (824 bacterial isolates and 128 yeast isolates) recovered from 2,214 specimens were assessed using the MALDI protocol. Compared with standard protocols, the MALDI protocol provided identifications 1.45 days earlier on average (P < 0.001). In our laboratory, we anticipate that the incorporation of the MALDI protocol can reduce reagent and labor costs of identification by $102,424 or 56.9% within 12 months. The model included the fixed annual costs of the MALDI-TOF MS, such as the cost of protein standards and instrument maintenance, and the annual prevalence of organisms encountered in our laboratory. This comprehensive cost analysis model can be generalized to other moderate- to high-volume laboratories.

  5. Combustion performance evaluation of air staging of palm oil blends.

    PubMed

    Mohd Jaafar, Mohammad Nazri; Eldrainy, Yehia A; Mat Ali, Muhammad Faiser; Wan Omar, W Z; Mohd Hizam, Mohd Faizi Arif

    2012-02-21

    The problems of global warming and the unstable price of petroleum oils have led to a race to develop environmentally friendly biofuels, such as palm oil or ethanol derived from corn and sugar cane. Biofuels are a potential replacement for fossil fuel, since they are renewable and environmentally friendly. This paper evaluates the combustion performance and emission characteristics of Refined, Bleached, and Deodorized Palm Oil (RBDPO)/diesel blends B5, B10, B15, B20, and B25 by volume, using an industrial oil burner with and without secondary air. Wall temperature profiles along the combustion chamber axis were measured using a series of thermocouples fitted axially on the combustion chamber wall, and emissions released were measured using a gas analyzer. The results show that RBDPO blend B25 produced the maximum emission reduction of 56.9% of CO, 74.7% of NOx, 68.5% of SO(2), and 77.5% of UHC compared to petroleum diesel, while air staging (secondary air) in most cases reduces the emissions further. However, increasing concentrations of RBDPO in the blends also reduced the energy released from the combustion. The maximum wall temperature reduction was 62.7% for B25 at the exit of the combustion chamber.

  6. An Examination of the Nature of Erotic Talk.

    PubMed

    Jonason, Peter K; Betteridge, Gabrielle L; Kneebone, Ian I

    2016-01-01

    Using a mixed-methods study, we provided the first systematic documentation and exploration of erotic talk. In Study 1 (N = 95), participants provided 569 erotic talk statements in an anonymous online survey, which we classified, using a modified thematic analysis, as being representative of eight themes. In Study 2 (N = 238), we quantified individual differences in these themes, subjected them to factor analysis, and examined the nomological network surrounding them with measures of relationship and sexual satisfaction, sociosexuality, and personality. The eight initial categories represented two higher order factors, which we call individualist talk and mutualistic talk. These factors were orthogonal in factor analysis and distinct in their nomological network. While the majority of people reported using erotic talk, we found few sex differences in its use.

  7. Outcomes in patients with mucosal melanomas.

    PubMed

    Keller, Deborah S; Thomay, Alan A; Gaughan, John; Olszanski, Anthony; Wu, Hong; Berger, Adam C; Farma, Jeffrey M

    2013-12-01

    Our goal was to evaluate the different subtypes of mucosal melanoma and describe specific variables that predict outcomes. Prospective review of two tertiary care center databases identified 76 mucosal melanoma patients; 73 with complete records were included. Demographic and clinical data were analyzed. Cox regression determined variables impacting recurrence and survival. In the 73 patients, the mean age was 64 years, and 74% were female. Sixty-seven percent presented with lymph node involvement, and 73% had ulcerated tumors. Major sites affected were nasal/palate/oral (36%), vulvar/vaginal/cervical (48%), and anorectal (15%). Mean overall and disease-free survival were 56.9 and 27.2 months. Variables associated with decreased survival included: lymphovascular invasion (HR17.70, P = 0.0093), Caucasian race (HR3.02, P = 0.0362), nasal/palate/oral sub-group (HR1.85, P = 0.026), Breslow thickness (HR1.23, P = 0.00004), T stage (HR1.34, P = 0.0075), M stage (HR3.03, P = 0.0039), and chemotherapy (HR3.13, P = 0.0002). The worst prognosis was seen in the nasal/palate/oral sub-group, with a median overall survival of 9.7 months and recurrence-free time of 4.5 months. This subtype also demonstrated high lymph node positivity, ulceration, and larger tumor size. The nasal, palate, oral subtype has the worst prognosis compared to other mucosal melanoma locations. Studies are ongoing to evaluate pathologic and genomic variables that may predict outcomes. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  8. Impacts of updated spectroscopy on thermal infrared retrievals of methane evaluated with HIPPO data

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Alvarado, M. J.; Payne, V. H.; Cady-Pereira, K. E.; Hegarty, J. D.; Kulawik, S. S.; Wecht, K. J.; Worden, J. R.; Pittman, J. V.; Wofsy, S. C.

    2015-02-01

    Errors in the spectroscopic parameters used in the forward radiative transfer model can introduce spatially, temporally, and altitude-dependent biases in trace gas retrievals. For well-mixed trace gases such as methane, where the variability of tropospheric mixing ratios is relatively small, reducing such biases is particularly important. We use aircraft observations from all five missions of the HIAPER Pole-to-Pole Observations (HIPPO) of the Carbon Cycle and Greenhouse Gases Study to evaluate the impact of updates to spectroscopic parameters for methane (CH4), water vapor (H2O), and nitrous oxide (N2O) on thermal infrared retrievals of methane from the NASA Aura Tropospheric Emission Spectrometer (TES). We find that updates to the spectroscopic parameters for CH4 result in a substantially smaller mean bias in the retrieved CH4 when compared with HIPPO observations. After an N2O-based correction, the bias in TES methane upper tropospheric representative values for measurements between 50° S and 50° N decreases from 56.9 to 25.7 ppbv, while the bias in the lower tropospheric representative value increases only slightly (from 27.3 to 28.4 ppbv). For retrievals with less than 1.6 degrees of freedom for signal (DOFS), the bias is reduced from 26.8 to 4.8 ppbv. We also find that updates to the spectroscopic parameters for N2O reduce the errors in the retrieved N2O profile.

  9. Evaluating the nondrug costs of formulary coverage restrictions.

    PubMed

    Abourjaily, Paul; Gouveia, William A; Selker, Harry P; Zucker, Deborah R

    2005-08-01

    Clinicians often are required to switch prescribed therapy for their patients in response to health plan initiatives for controlling drug expenditures. To explore the effect of these initiatives, we sought clinicians' feedback regarding their practices and processes for switching patients' medications to accommodate insurance coverage. Self-administered Intranet-based survey of clinicians at an urban, tertiary-care hospital. Using survey responses, we calculate nondrug costs induced by formulary cost-saving measures. A total of 91 responses were received from 569 providers who were sent a request to complete the questionnaire via electronic mail (18 percent response rate). It took an average of 11.1, 18.9, and 16.4 minutes for physicians, nurses, and nurse practitioners/physician assistants, respectively, to make the medication switch. The mean number of switches per month ranged from 10.6 to 36.9. More than half the time spent on these switches is not directly reimbursed. Specific switch-induced intervention costs differed for different drug types. The effect on clinician workload tended to be an inconvenience. While the majority of physicians and nurse practitioners/physician assistants did not feel this process damaged patient-provider relations, most nurses did. In response to formulary restrictions, other costs are induced and incurred by providers and patients. The extent of patient costs, including those from adverse drug reactions, needs further study. More research is needed to elucidate costs and burden shifts as all parties involved evaluate and modify plans to moderate prescription drug expenditures.

  10. Drivers of Plankton Patch Formation, Persistence and Decline in East Sound, Orcas Island, Washington

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-09-30

    processes, including phytoplankton growth rates, carbon to Chl a ratios (Welschmeyer & Lorenzen 1984), heterotrophic protist grazing rates (Montagnes...dinoflagellates, diatoms, and other protist plankton. Limnology and Oceanography 45: 569-579 Menden-Deuer S, EJ Lessard & J Satterberg. 2001. Effect of...nutrient availability on measurements of heterotrophic protist grazing rates in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island, USA. ASLO Aquatic Sciences Meeting

  11. Drivers of Plankton Patch Formation, Persistence and Decline in East Sound, Orcas Island, Washington

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-09-30

    protist grazing rates (Montagnes & Lessard 1999), and cellular carbon content (Putt & Stoecker 1989, Crawford & Stoecker 1996). The radiolabeling...Lessard. 2000. Carbon to volume relationships for dinoflagellates, diatoms, and other protist plankton. Limnology and Oceanography 45: 569-579 Menden...2011. Effects of copepod addition and nutrient availability on measurements of heterotrophic protist grazing rates in Narragansett Bay, Rhode Island

  12. 77 FR 28864 - Elba Express Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Amendment to Petition To Amend Order Issuing Certificate

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-05-16

    ... Company, L.L.C.; Notice of Amendment to Petition To Amend Order Issuing Certificate Take notice that on May 3, 2012, Elba Express Company, L.L.C. (Elba Express), located at 569 Brookwood Village, Suite 501... application may be directed to Pamela R. Donaldson, Principal Regulatory Analyst, Elba Express Company, L.L.C...

  13. 49 CFR 178.345-2 - Material and material thickness.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-10-01

    ... authorized for cargo tanks “constructed in accordance with the ASME Code”, Section VIII. ASTM A 569 ASTM A 570 ASTM A 572 ASTM A 622 ASTM A 656 ASTM A 715 ASTM A 1008/ A 1008M, ASTM A 1011/A 1011M (2) Aluminum... ASTM specifications may be used for cargo tanks “constructed in accordance with the ASME Code”: ASTM B...

  14. Defense Logistics: DOD Needs to Take Additional Actions to Address Challenges in Supply Chain Management

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2011-07-01

    Jack E. Edwa appendix III. t rds Director, Defense Capabilities and Managemen Page 36 GAO-11-569 Defense Logistics List of Committees...Washington Headquarters Services, Directorate for Information Operations and Reports, 1215 Jefferson Davis Highway, Suite 1204, Arlington VA 22202-4302... operations . DOD faces asset visibility challenges due, in part, to a lack of interoperability among information technology

  15. Nano-Mechanical Properties of Heat Inactivated Bacillus anthracis and Bacillus thuringiensis Spores

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-03-01

    Scanner Laser Mirror Cantilever Sample Probe Tip 16 cereus strain 569, and Bacillus globigii var. niger . Zolock determined that there wer...been used to measure the surface elasticities of a variety of microbial organisms including Pseudomonas putida, Bacillus subtilis, Aspergillus ...66:307-311 (2005). Zhao, Liming, David Schaefer, and Mark R. Marten. “Assessment of Elasticity and Topography of Aspergillus nidulans Spores via

  16. Matters arising from ``The Leonid meteor shower and the history of the Semites''Letter - Matters arising from ``The Leonid meteor shower and the history of the Semites''

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McBeath, A.

    2009-10-01

    Aspects of a paper by Suleyman (2009) in this journal, relating to theoretically-strong Leonid activity in 569 AD and 1226 BC possibly having been recorded in the Quran and Bible respectively, are discussed. Little reason is found to suppose either textual source referred to such astronomical events.

  17. Illicit Drug Trade-Impact on United States National Health Care

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-03-01

    pobreza en Mexico sube a 52 milliones,” CNN Expansion, July 29, 2011, http://www.cnnexpansion.com/ economia /2011/07/29/pobreza- mexico -2010 (accessed...Unlimited. 13. SUPPLEMENTARY NOTES Word Count: 5,569 14. ABSTRACT The United States and Mexico face a myriad of threats to national security...Policy Classification: Unclassified The United States and Mexico face a myriad of threats to national security

  18. Corrigendum to 'Tunable slow and fast light in an atom-assisted optomechanical system' [Opt. Commun. 338C (2015) 569-573

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gu, Kai-Hui; Yan, Xiao-Bo; Zhang, Yan; Fu, Chang-Bao; Liu, Yi-Mou; Wang, Xin; Wu, Jin-Hui

    2015-11-01

    The author would like to inform the readers that the Reference [40] cited in the above article should be read as "[40] M. J. Akram, F. Ghafoor, and F. Saif, arXiv:1405.5614v1, (2014)" instead of "[40] J. A. Muhammad, G. Fazal, S. Farhan, arXiv:1405.5614v1, 2014".

  19. Terrorism: A Selective Bibliography.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-04-01

    P623 Alexander, Yonah, and Gleason, John M., eds. BEHAVIORAL AND QUANTITATIVE PERSPECTIVES ON TERRORISM. New York, NY: Pergamon Press, 1981. 396 p. HV...CONTROL AND PROSOCIAL ALTERNATIVES. New York, NY: Pergamon Press, 1981. 560 p. RC 569.5 .V55 I5 1981 Gurr, Ted Robert. HANDBOOK OF POLITICAL CONFLICT...Rapoport, David C., and Alexander, Yonah, eds. THE RATIONALIZATION OF TERRORISM. Frederick, MD: Aletheia Books, University Publications of America

  20. On thermal conductivity of gas mixtures containing hydrogen

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhukov, Victor P.; Pätz, Markus

    2017-06-01

    A brief review of formulas used for the thermal conductivity of gas mixtures in CFD simulations of rocket combustion chambers is carried out in the present work. In most cases, the transport properties of mixtures are calculated from the properties of individual components using special mixing rules. The analysis of different mixing rules starts from basic equations and ends by very complex semi-empirical expressions. The formulas for the thermal conductivity are taken for the analysis from the works on modelling of rocket combustion chambers. \\hbox {H}_2{-}\\hbox {O}_2 mixtures are chosen for the evaluation of the accuracy of the considered mixing rules. The analysis shows that two of them, of Mathur et al. (Mol Phys 12(6):569-579, 1967), and of Mason and Saxena (Phys Fluids 1(5):361-369, 1958), have better agreement with the experimental data than other equations for the thermal conductivity of multicomponent gas mixtures.

  1. Weight loss outcomes among patients referred after primary bariatric procedure.

    PubMed

    Obeid, Nabeel R; Malick, Waqas; Baxter, Andrew; Molina, Bianca; Schwack, Bradley F; Kurian, Marina S; Ren-Fielding, Christine J; Fielding, George A

    2016-07-01

    Bariatric patients may not always obtain long-term care by their primary surgeon. Our aim was to evaluate weight loss outcomes in patients who had surgery elsewhere. We conducted a retrospective analysis. Postreferral management included nonsurgical, revision, or conversion. Primary outcomes were percent excess weight loss (%EWL) overall, according to original operation, and based on postreferral management. Between 2001 and 2013, there were 569 patients. Mean follow-up was 3.1 years. Management was 42% nonsurgical, 41% revision, and 17% conversion. Overall, mean %EWL was 45.3%. Based on original surgery type, %EWL was 41.2% for adjustable gastric banding vs 58.3% for Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (P ≤ .0001). Management affected %EWL (41.2% nonsurgical vs 45.3% revision vs 55.1% conversion, P ≤ .0001). Patients referred after bariatric surgery can achieve satisfactory weight loss. This differs based on surgery type and management strategy. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  2. Fuzzy multi-objective optimization case study based on an anaerobic co-digestion process of food waste leachate and piggery wastewater.

    PubMed

    Choi, Angelo Earvin Sy; Park, Hung Suck

    2018-06-20

    This paper presents the development and evaluation of fuzzy multi-objective optimization for decision-making that includes the process optimization of anaerobic digestion (AD) process. The operating cost criteria which is a fundamental research gap in previous AD analysis was integrated for the case study in this research. In this study, the mixing ratio of food waste leachate (FWL) and piggery wastewater (PWW), calcium carbonate (CaCO 3 ) and sodium chloride (NaCl) concentrations were optimized to enhance methane production while minimizing operating cost. The results indicated a maximum of 63.3% satisfaction for both methane production and operating cost under the following optimal conditions: mixing ratio (FWL: PWW) - 1.4, CaCO 3 - 2970.5 mg/L and NaCl - 2.7 g/L. In multi-objective optimization, the specific methane yield (SMY) was 239.0 mL CH 4 /g VS added , while 41.2% volatile solids reduction (VSR) was obtained at an operating cost of 56.9 US$/ton. In comparison with the previous optimization study that utilized the response surface methodology, the SMY, VSR and operating cost of the AD process were 310 mL/g, 54% and 83.2 US$/ton, respectively. The results from multi-objective fuzzy optimization proves to show the potential application of this technique for practical decision-making in the process optimization of AD process. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  3. Changing prevalence patterns in endoscopic and histological diagnosis of gastritis? Data from a cross-sectional Central European multicentre study.

    PubMed

    Wolf, Eva-Maria; Plieschnegger, Wolfgang; Geppert, Michael; Wigginghaus, Bernd; Höss, Gabriele M; Eherer, Andreas; Schneider, Nora I; Hauer, Almuthe; Rehak, Peter; Vieth, Michael; Langner, Cord

    2014-05-01

    Traditionally, Helicobacter infection is considered to be the most common cause of gastritis. In the cross-sectional Central European histoGERD trial, we assessed the prevalence of different types of gastritis, correlating histological and endoscopic diagnoses. A total of 1123 individuals participated in an observational multicentre study. Endoscopists classified individuals as positive or negative for gastritis and rendered the putative cause. Pathologists evaluated biopsy specimens based upon the Updated Sydney System. Histological diagnosis of gastritis was made in 639 (56.9%) participants. In all, 210 (18.7%) individuals were diagnosed with Helicobacter gastritis, 215 (19.1%) with post Helicobacter gastritis, 234 (20.8%) with reactive gastropathy, 26 (2.3%) with autoimmune gastritis, and 6 (0.5%) with focally enhanced gastritis related to Crohn's disease. In 46 out of 639 (7.2%) individuals diagnosed with gastritis, combinations of different histological subtypes were noted the most common being reactive gastropathy and post Helicobacter gastritis. Endoscopic diagnosis of gastritis was made in 534 (47.6%) individuals. Reactive gastropathy was more common than active Helicobacter gastritis, and the majority of cases attributable to Helicobacter infection were no longer ongoing, i.e. post Helicobacter gastritis. Agreement between histological and endoscopic diagnoses was better in reactive gastropathy than in Helicobacter gastritis. Copyright © 2014 Editrice Gastroenterologica Italiana S.r.l. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Effects of arginine and trehalose on post-thawed bovine sperm quality.

    PubMed

    Öztürk, Caner; Güngör, Şükrü; Ataman, Mehmet Bozkurt; Bucak, Mustafa Numan; Başpinar, Nuri; Ili, Pınar; Inanç, Muhammed Enes

    2017-09-01

    The present study was conducted to examine the protective role of arginine and trehalose on post-thaw bull sperm and oxidative stress parameters. Five ejaculates for each bull were used in the study. Each ejaculate, split into three equal aliquots and diluted at 37 °C with base extenders containing 2 mM arginine, 25 mM trehalose and no antioxidant (control) was cooled to 5 °C and then frozen. Frozen straws were thawed in a water bath for evaluation. Supplementation of the semen extender with arginine decreased the percentages of post-thawed subjective motility (29 ± 8.21%), CASA motility (12.2 ± 5.69%) and progressive motility (3.52 ± 2.13%), compared with the controls (43 ± 2.73%, 55.4 ± 6.78% and 33.48 ± 4.14%, respectively, P < 0.05). Supplementation of the semen extender with trehalose produced a higher mitochondrial activity and sperm viability (36.3 ± 3.99% and 44.1 ± 2.18%) compared with the control (13 ± 8.15 and 31.7 ± 3.94%, respectively, P < 0.05). It was established that trehalose (95.1%) and arginine (92.8%) protect DNA integrity compared to the control (90.4%) (P < 0.05). Trehalose supplementation in semen extenders provided great benefit in terms of viability, mitochondrial activity, and intact sperm DNA on frozen-thawed bull sperm.

  5. Absence of correlation between IL-28B gene polymorphisms and the clinical presentation of chronic hepatitis B in an Amazon Brazilian population.

    PubMed

    Conde, Simone Regina Souza da Silva; Rocha, Luciana L; Ferreira, Vanessa M; Monteiro, Julius Caesar Mendes Soares; Filgueiras, Nathália Karla Fonseca; Lins, Pedro Alves de Almeida; dos Santos, Bruna Tereza Silva; Freitas, Felipe Bonfim; Graça, Ednelza da Silva; Demachki, Sâmia; de Araújo, Marialva Tereza Ferreira; Ishak, Ricardo; Vallinoto, Antonio C R

    2014-01-01

    The present study investigated the prevalence of the IL-28B polymorphisms rs12979860 and rs8099917 in chronic hepatitis B patients from a case study in Eastern Amazonia. In total, 65 chronically infected HBV patients and 97 healthy subjects who were anti-HBc and anti-HBs positive (control group) were evaluated between May 2011 and December 2012. The groups of patients were designated as inactive carriers, chronic hepatitis without cirrhosis, and chronic hepatitis with cirrhosis based on clinical, pathological, biochemical, hematological, and virological variables. The patients were genotyped using quantitative real-time PCR. The frequencies of the rs12979860 polymorphism were similar between the infected group (32.3% CC, 41.5% CT, and 26.2 TT) and the control population (35% CC, 47.4% CT, and 17.6% TT), and the frequencies of the rs8099917 polymorphism (7.7% GG, 35.4% GT, and 56.9% TT versus 7.2% GG, 35.1% GT, and 57.7% TT) were also similar in both groups. The associations between the rs12979860 and rs8099917 polymorphisms and the clinical manifestations were not statistically significant. In conclusion, these polymorphisms had a similar distribution between infected and control groups, indicating that they were not associated with susceptibility and the clinical evolution of hepatitis B in the examined population.

  6. Measuring the effectiveness of patient-chosen reminder methods in a private orthodontic practice.

    PubMed

    Wegrzyniak, Lauren M; Hedderly, Deborah; Chaudry, Kishore; Bollu, Prashanti

    2018-05-01

    To evaluate the effectiveness of patient-chosen appointment reminder methods (phone call, e-mail, or SMS text) in reducing no-show rates. This was a retrospective case study that determined the correlation between patient-chosen appointment reminder methods and no-show rates in a private orthodontic practice. This study was conducted in a single office location of a multioffice private orthodontic practice using data gathered in 2015. The subjects were patients who self-selected the appointment reminder method (phone call, e-mail, or SMS text). Patient appointment data were collected over a 6-month period. Patient attendance was analyzed with descriptive statistics to determine any significant differences among patient-chosen reminder methods. There was a total of 1193 appointments with an average no-show rate of 2.43% across the three reminder methods. No statistically significant differences ( P = .569) were observed in the no-show rates between the three methods: phone call (3.49%), e-mail (2.68%), and SMS text (1.90%). The electronic appointment reminder methods (SMS text and e-mail) had lower no-show rates compared with the phone call method, with SMS text having the lowest no-show rate of 1.90%. However, since no significant differences were observed between the three patient-chosen reminder methods, providers may want to allow patients to choose their reminder method to decrease no-shows.

  7. Relationship between Controlled Attenuation Parameter and Hepatic Steatosis as Assessed by Ultrasound in Alcoholic or Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease.

    PubMed

    Ahn, Jem Ma; Paik, Yong-Han; Min, Sin Yeong; Cho, Ju Yeon; Sohn, Won; Sinn, Dong Hyun; Gwak, Geum-Youn; Choi, Moon Seok; Lee, Joon Hyeok; Koh, Kwang Cheol; Paik, Seung Woon; Yoo, Byung Chul

    2016-03-01

    The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and hepatic steatosis, as assessed by ultrasound (US) in patients with alcoholic liver disease (ALD) or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Patients with either ALD or NAFLD who were diagnosed with fatty liver with US and whose CAP scores were measured, were retrospectively enrolled in this study. The degree of hepatic steatosis assessed by US was categorized into mild (S1), moderate (S2), and severe (S3). A total of 186 patients were included 106 with NAFLD and 80 with ALD. Regarding hepatic steatosis, the CAP score was significantly correlated with US (ρ=0.580, p<0.001), and there was no significant difference between the NAFLD and ALD groups (ρ=0.569, p<0.001; ρ=0.519, p<0.001; p=0.635). Using CAP, area under receiver operating characteristic curves for ≥ S2 and ≥ S3 steatosis were excellent (0.789 and 0.843, respectively). For sensitivity ≥ 90%, CAP cutoffs for the detection of ≥ S2 and ≥ S3 steastosis were separated with a gap of approximately 35 dB/m in all patients and in each of the NAFLD and ALD groups. The CAP score is well correlated with hepatic steatosis, as assessed by US, in both ALD and NAFLD.

  8. Predictors of Army National Guard and Reserve members' use of Veteran Health Administration health care after demobilizing from OEF/OIF deployment.

    PubMed

    Harris, Alex H S; Chen, Cheng; Mohr, Beth A; Adams, Rachel Sayko; Williams, Thomas V; Larson, Mary Jo

    2014-10-01

    This study described rates and predictors of Army National Guard and Army Reserve members' enrollment in and utilization of Veteran Health Administration (VHA) services in the 365 days following demobilization from an index deployment. We also explored regional and VHA facility variation in serving eligible members in their catchment areas. The sample included 125,434 Army National Guard and 48,423 Army Reserve members who demobilized after a deployment ending between FY 2008 and FY 2011. Demographic, geographic, deployment, and Military Health System eligibility were derived from Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System and "Contingency Tracking System" data. The VHA National Patient Care Databases were used to ascertain VHA utilization and status (e.g., enrollee, TRICARE). Logistic regression models were used to evaluate predictors of VHA utilization as an enrollee in the year following demobilization. Of the study members demobilizing during the observation period, 56.9% of Army National Guard members and 45.7% of Army Reserve members utilized VHA as an enrollee within 12 months. Demographic, regional, health coverage, and deployment-related factors were associated with VHA enrollment and utilization, and significant variation by VHA facility was found. These findings can be useful in the design of specific outreach efforts to improve linkage from the Military Health System to the VHA. Reprint & Copyright © 2014 Association of Military Surgeons of the U.S.

  9. Validation of the 'Test of the Adherence to Inhalers' (TAI) for Asthma and COPD Patients.

    PubMed

    Plaza, Vicente; Fernández-Rodríguez, Concepción; Melero, Carlos; Cosío, Borja G; Entrenas, Luís Manuel; de Llano, Luis Pérez; Gutiérrez-Pereyra, Fernando; Tarragona, Eduard; Palomino, Rosa; López-Viña, Antolín

    2016-04-01

    To validate the 'Test of Adherence to Inhalers' (TAI), a 12-item questionnaire designed to assess the adherence to inhalers in patients with COPD or asthma. A total of 1009 patients with asthma or COPD participated in a cross-sectional multicenter study. Patients with electronic adherence ≥80% were defined as adherents. Construct validity, internal validity, and criterion validity were evaluated. Self-reported adherence was compared with the Morisky-Green questionnaire. Factor analysis study demonstrated two factors, factor 1 was coincident with TAI patient domain (items 1 to 10) and factor 2 with TAI health-care professional domain (items 11 and 12). The Cronbach's alpha was 0.860 and the test-retest reliability 0.883. TAI scores correlated with electronic adherence (ρ=0.293, p=0.01). According to the best cut-off for 10 items (score 50, area under the ROC curve 0.7), 569 (62.5%) patients were classified as non-adherents. The non-adherence behavior pattern was: erratic 527 (57.9%), deliberate 375 (41.2%), and unwitting 242 (26.6%) patients. As compared to Morisky-Green test, TAI showed better psychometric properties. The TAI is a reliable and homogeneous questionnaire to identify easily non-adherence and to classify from a clinical perspective the barriers related to the use of inhalers in asthma and COPD.

  10. Impact of Supplementary Feeding on Reproductive Success of White Storks

    PubMed Central

    Hilgartner, Roland; Stahl, Daniel; Zinner, Dietmar

    2014-01-01

    European white stork (Ciconia ciconia) populations have been object to several conservation measures such as reintroduction programs, habitat improvement or supplementary feeding in the last decades. Although recent white stork censuses revealed an upward trend of most of the western populations, evaluations of the relative importance of certain conservation measures are still scarce or even lacking. In our study we analyzed the effect of supplementary feeding on the reproductive success of white storks in conjunction with other factors such as weather or nest site characteristics. We present data of 569 breeding events at 80 different nest sites located in variable distances to an artificial feeding site at Affenberg Salem (south-western Germany) collected from 1990–2012. A multilevel Poisson regression revealed that in our study population (1) reproductive success was negatively affected by monthly precipitation in April, May and June, (2) pairs breeding on power poles had a lower reproductive success than pairs breeding on platforms or trees and (3) reproductive success was significantly higher in pairs breeding in close distance to the feeding site. The number of fledglings per nest decreased by 8% per kilometer distance to the feeding site. Our data suggest that supplementary feeding increases fledgling populations which may be a tool to attenuate population losses caused by factors such as habitat deterioration or unfavorable conditions in wintering habitats. PMID:25119566

  11. Project VALOR: Trajectories of Change in PTSD in Combat-Exposed Veterans

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-10-01

    Affairs electronic records of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans. Journal of consulting and clinical psychology , 82(4), 569. PRESENTATIONS Barretto...Veterans. Poster presented at the 49th Annual Meeting of the Association of Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, Chicago, IL. Bovin, M. J., Marx, B...comparison of Operation Iraqi Freedom Deployment Phases. Poster presented at the 49th Annual Meeting of the Association of Behavioral and Cognitive

  12. Use of Negation in Search

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-06-01

    definition of information, consider that provided by the International Encyclopedia of Information and Library Science . Information is “data that...International encyclopedia of information and library science (pp. 295-297). 2nd ed. New York: Routledge. Brenes D.J., & Gayo-Avello D. (2009...and library science (pp. 569-572). 2nd ed. New York: Routledge. Herskovic, J. R., Tanaka, L. Y., Hersh, W., & Bernstam, E. V. (2007). A Day in the

  13. 26 CFR 1.15-1 - Changes in rate during a taxable year.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-04-01

    ... (see § 1.51-1(d)(1)(i)) 56.26 Total tax for the taxable year 4,569.20 Example 3. H and W, husband and... beginning after December 31, 1969. H and W file a joint return on the basis of a taxable year ending August 31. For the taxable year ending August 31, 1970, H and W have adjusted gross income of $12,500. Their...

  14. 26 CFR 1.15-1 - Changes in rate during a taxable year.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-04-01

    ... (see § 1.51-1(d)(1)(i)) 56.26 Total tax for the taxable year 4,569.20 Example 3. H and W, husband and... beginning after December 31, 1969. H and W file a joint return on the basis of a taxable year ending August 31. For the taxable year ending August 31, 1970, H and W have adjusted gross income of $12,500. Their...

  15. 26 CFR 1.15-1 - Changes in rate during a taxable year.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-04-01

    ... (see § 1.51-1(d)(1)(i)) 56.26 Total tax for the taxable year 4,569.20 Example 3. H and W, husband and... beginning after December 31, 1969. H and W file a joint return on the basis of a taxable year ending August 31. For the taxable year ending August 31, 1970, H and W have adjusted gross income of $12,500. Their...

  16. 26 CFR 1.15-1 - Changes in rate during a taxable year.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-04-01

    ... (see § 1.51-1(d)(1)(i)) 56.26 Total tax for the taxable year 4,569.20 Example 3. H and W, husband and... beginning after December 31, 1969. H and W file a joint return on the basis of a taxable year ending August 31. For the taxable year ending August 31, 1970, H and W have adjusted gross income of $12,500. Their...

  17. Selected Risk and Protective Factors Associated with Two or More Lifetime Sexual Intercourse Partners and Non-Condom Use during Last Coitus among U.S. Rural High School Students

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Yarber, William L.; Milhausen, Robin; Crosby, Richard A.; DiClemente, Ralph J.

    2002-01-01

    This analysis determined the association between 13 selected health risk and protective factors and reporting two or more lifetime sexual intercourse partners and non-condom use for last coitus among sexually experienced U.S. rural high school students. The sample was 569 sexually experienced adolescent females and 561 sexually experienced…

  18. Land Tenure Adjustment Project. Preliminary Draft Environmental Impact Statement/Report

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1987-04-16

    southern California render the probability of major agricultural produrtion in the impact area unlikely. Extractive industry in the impact area is neither...American Indians, Vol. 8: California, ed. Robert F. Heizer . Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. Bean, Lowell John, and Sylvia Brakke Vane. 1979...American Indians, Vol. 8: California, ed. Robert F. Heizer , pp. 567-569. Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. LTA REVISION 2 B-2 California Air

  19. Black Women in the Labor Force. Facts on Working Women No. 97-1.

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Women's Bureau (DOL), Washington, DC.

    Between 1986 and 1996, the number of black women aged 16 and over in the United States increased from 11 million to 13 million. Labor force participation for black women rose during that time from 56.9 percent to 60.4 percent. In 1996 the total labor force population of black women was 7.9 million. Of these, 80 percent worked full time. Black…

  20. 33 CFR 117.287 - Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... that from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday except Federal holidays, the draw need open only... between 4:35 p.m. and 5:35 p.m. when the draw need not open. (b) The draw of the Hatchett Creek (US-41) bridge, mile 56.9 at Venice, shall open on signal, except that, from 7 a.m. to 4:20 p.m., Monday through...

  1. 33 CFR 117.287 - Gulf Intracoastal Waterway.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... that from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday except Federal holidays, the draw need open only... between 4:35 p.m. and 5:35 p.m. when the draw need not open. (b) The draw of the Hatchett Creek (US-41) bridge, mile 56.9 at Venice, shall open on signal, except that, from 7 a.m. to 4:20 p.m., Monday through...

  2. 77 FR 7602 - Certain Strollers and Playards; Decision Not To Review an Initial Determination Terminating the...

    Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

    2012-02-13

    ... business hours (8:45 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.) in the Office of the Secretary, U.S. International Trade Commission... respondent Baby Trend, Inc. of Ontario, California (``Baby Trend''), and alleged a violation of section 337...,225; 7,044,497; 7,188,858; 7,404,569; and 6,510,570. On January 6, 2012, Graco and Baby Trend jointly...

  3. Complete Genome Sequence of Methylobacterium populi P-1M, Isolated from Pink-Pigmented Household Biofilm

    PubMed Central

    Morohoshi, Tomohiro

    2016-01-01

    Methylobacterium populi P-1M is isolated from the pink-pigmented household biofilm. Here, we present the complete genome sequence of P-1M, consisting of one chromosome of 5,705,640 bp and five plasmids of 64,864 bp, 59,879 bp, 42,569 bp, 41,417 bp, and 29,506 bp. PMID:27313289

  4. A multi-sensor analysis of Nimbus 5 data on 22 January 1973. [meteorological parameters

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Allison, L. J.; Rodgers, E. B.; Wilheit, T. T.; Wexler, R.

    1973-01-01

    The Nimbus 5 meteorological satellite carried aloft a full complement of radiation sensors, the data from which were analyzed and intercompared during orbits 569-570 on 22 January 1973. The electrically scanning microwave radiometer (ESMR) which sensed passive microwave radiation in the 19.35 GHz region, delineated rain areas over the ocean off the U.S. east coast, in good agreement with WSR-57 and FPS-77 radar imagery and permitted the estimation of rainfall rates in this region. Residual ground water in the lower Mississippi Valley, which resulted from abnormal rainfall in previous months, was indicated under clear sky conditions by soil brightness temperature values in the Nimbus 5 ESMR and U.S. Air Force Data Acquisition and Processing Program (DAPP) IR data. The temperature-humidity infrared radiometer showed the height and spatial configuration of frontal clouds along the east coast and outlined the confluence of a polar jet stream with a broad sub-tropical jet stream along the U.S. Gulf Coast. Temperature profiles from three vertical temperature sounders, the infrared temperature profile radiometer (ITPR), the Nimbus E microwave spectrometer (NEMS) and the selective chopper radiometer (SCR) were found to be in good agreement with related radiosonde ascents along orbit 569 from the sub-tropics to the Arctic Circle.

  5. Adherence to hepatitis A virus vaccination in HIV-infected men who have sex with men.

    PubMed

    Kourkounti, Sofia; Paparizos, Vassilios; Leuow, Kirsten; Paparizou, Eleni; Antoniou, Christina

    2015-10-01

    Although vaccination against hepatitis A virus (HAV) is essential for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients, the uptake of HAV vaccine is reported to be very low. From 2007 to 2012, 912 HIV-infected men in Athens, Greece were screened for exposure to HAV. Two doses of an HAV vaccine were recommended to 569 eligible patients. Reminder cards with scheduled vaccination visits were given to each patient. Among eligible patients, 62.2% (354/569) received both doses. Patients who were fully vaccinated compared with non-adherent patients were natives, older, had undetectable HIV viral load, higher CD4 T cell counts and lower nadir CD4 T cell counts. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that the patient's country of origin (p = 0.024; OR = 2.712; 95% CI, 1.139-6.457), CD4 T cell count (p < 0.001) and nadir CD4 T cell count (p < 0.001) were factors directly associated with adherence. In conclusion, adherence to HAV vaccination was better than in previously published data. Because many of the factors related to vaccination completion are parameters of HIV infection, it appears that physician interest in HIV care and vaccination planning is crucial to enhancing vaccine uptake. © The Author(s) 2015.

  6. Continued benefits of a technical assistance web site to local tobacco control coalitions during a state budget shortfall.

    PubMed

    Buller, David B; Young, Walter F; Bettinghaus, Erwin P; Borland, Ron; Walther, Joseph B; Helme, Donald; Andersen, Peter A; Cutter, Gary R; Maloy, Julie A

    2011-01-01

    A state budget shortfall defunded 10 local tobacco coalitions during a randomized trial but defunded coalitions continued to have access to 2 technical assistance Web sites. To test the ability of Web-based technology to provide technical assistance to local tobacco control coalitions. Randomized 2-group trial with local tobacco control coalitions as the unit of randomization. Local communities (ie, counties) within the State of Colorado. Leaders and members in 34 local tobacco control coalitions funded by the state health department in Colorado. Two technical assistance Web sites: A Basic Web site with text-based information and a multimedia Enhanced Web site containing learning modules, resources, and communication features. Use of the Web sites in minutes, pages, and session and evaluations of coalition functioning on coalition development, conflict resolution, leadership satisfaction, decision-making satisfaction, shared mission, personal involvement, and organization involvement in survey of leaders and members. Coalitions that were defunded but had access to the multimedia Enhanced Web site during the Fully Funded period and after defunding continued to use it (treatment group × funding status × period, F(3,714) = 3.18, P = .0234). Coalitions with access to the Basic Web site had low Web site use throughout and use by defunded coalitions was nearly zero when funding ceased. Members in defunded Basic Web site coalitions reported that their coalitions functioned worse than defunded Enhanced Web site coalitions (coalition development: group × status, F(1,360) = 4.81, P = .029; conflict resolution: group × status, F(1,306) = 5.69, P = .018; leadership satisfaction: group × status, F(1,342) = 5.69, P = .023). The Enhanced Web site may have had a protective effect on defunded coalitions. Defunded coalitions may have increased their capacity by using the Enhanced Web site when fully funded or by continuing to use the available online resources after defunding. Web-based technical assistance with online training and resources may be a good investment when future funding is not ensured.

  7. Retropubic versus transobturator tension-free vaginal tape (TVT vs TVT-O): Five-year results of the Austrian randomized trial.

    PubMed

    Tammaa, Ayman; Aigmüller, Thomas; Hanzal, Engelbert; Umek, Wolfgang; Kropshofer, Stephan; Lang, Peter F J; Ralph, George; Riss, Paul; Koelle, Dieter; Jundt, Katharina; Tamussino, Karl; Bjelic-Radisic, Vesna

    2018-01-01

    To compare outcomes of the retropubic versus the transobturator tension-free vaginal tape (TVT vs TVT-O) at 5 years. A total of 569 women undergoing surgery for primary stress incontinence were randomized to receive a retropubic or a transobturator tensionfree vaginal tape (TVT or TVT-O). Follow-up at 5 years included clinical examination, urodynamic studies and quality of life. The primary outcome measure was continence defined as a negative cough stress test at a volume of 300 mL. Secondary outcomes included urodynamic parameters, complications and quality of life.ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT 0041454). Three hundred and thirty-one patients (59%) were evaluated at 5 years (277 were seen, examined and completed questionnaires; 54 only completed questionnaires). No significant differences were seen in rates of a negative cough stress test (83% vs 76%, respectively), urodynamic parameters and complications. Quality-of-life improved significantly in both groups, without significant differences between the groups. Erosion rates were 5.2% and 4.5%, and reoperation rates were 4.1% and 3.2% respectively. At 5 years, subjective and objective results after TVT and TVT-O are stable and similar, without statistical significant differences between the procedures. Major long-term problems appear rare. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  8. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor Val66met polymorphism and plasma levels in road traffic accident survivors.

    PubMed

    van den Heuvel, Leigh; Suliman, Sharain; Malan-Müller, Stefanie; Hemmings, Sian; Seedat, Soraya

    2016-11-01

    Alterations in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and release may play a role in the pathogenesis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This study evaluated road traffic accident (RTA) survivors to determine whether PTSD and trauma-related factors were associated with plasma BDNF levels and BDNF Val66Met carrier status following RTA exposure. One hundred and twenty-three RTA survivors (mean age 33.2 years, SD = 10.6 years; 56.9% male) were assessed 10 (SD = 4.9) days after RTA exposure. Acute stress disorder (ASD), as assessed with the Acute Stress Disorder Scale, was present in 50 (42.0%) of the participants. Plasma BDNF levels were measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and BDNF Val66Met genotyping was performed. PTSD, as assessed with the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale, was present in 10 (10.8%) participants at 6 months follow-up. Neither BDNF Val66Met genotype nor plasma BDNF was significantly associated with the presence or severity of ASD or PTSD. Plasma BDNF levels were, however, significantly correlated with the lifetime number of trauma exposures. In RTA survivors, plasma BDNF levels increased with increasing number of prior trauma exposures. Plasma BDNF may, therefore, be a marker of trauma load.

  9. Prognostic Factors Predicting the Surgical Outcomes of Bilateral Lateral Rectus Recession for Patients with Concomitant Exotropia in Chiang Mai University Hospital.

    PubMed

    Trakanwitthayarak, Supaporn; Patikulsila, Prapatsorn

    2017-01-01

    To determine the preoperative variables affecting early and late favorable outcomes of bilateral lateral rectus recession surgery for concomitant exotropia. A retrospective study of 65 patients with concomitant exotropia (constant and intermittent) who had bilateral lateral rectus recession was conducted. The follow-up period was more than 1 year in all patients. Preoperative parameters were obtained and evaluated using univariate analysis. Sixty-five patients with concomitant exotropia who underwent bilateral lateral rectus recession were included. In the early and late postoperative outcome, 78% and 82% of the patients were in the success group, respectively. Meanwhile, 22% and 18% were in the failure group, respectively. There was no association between postoperative outcome and preoperative variables i.e. age at onset (p = 0.841, 0.591), age at surgery (p = 0.564, 0.634), interval between onset and surgery (p = 0.506, 0.753), preoperative deviation (p = 0.278, 0.211), refractive error (p = 0.217, 0.136), anisometropia (p = 0.946, 0.946), phase of exotropia (p = 0.741, 0.013), A-V pattern (p = 1.000, 1.000), stereopsis (p = 0.841, 0.268) and amblyopia (p = 0.569, 0.567). Preoperative variables could not be used to predict the early and late postoperative outcome.

  10. Study on Performance of Intersection Around The Underpass Using Micro Simulation Program

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arliansyah, J.; Bawono, R. T.

    2018-03-01

    In order to overcome the problems of congestion at the major intersections in Palembang City, there have been grade separation constructions in the form of flyover or underpass. One of them is the intersection of Patal Pusri Underpass. The smooth traffic due to the underpass construction needs to be balanced by the arrangement management at the intersections located close to the underpass to get the best network performance since both affect each other performance. The Taman Kenten and Seduduk Putih junctions which are just 569 and 226 meters from the underpass of Patal Pusri has to be analyzed for its needs of management and traffic arrangements to reduce its impact on the performance of the intersection of Patal Pusri or vice versa. Some alternatives of management and traffic arrangements were developed to get the best solutions and the Vissim 8.00 microsimulation program was used to evaluate the performance of intersections in the network where the compared parameters are the value of the queue length and average delay. The results of the analysis and the conducted modeling show that the best solution to optimize the performance of the two junctions are to make geometric changes and diversion of traffic flow at Seduduk Putih Junction and making geometric changes at Taman Kenten Junction.

  11. Development and Characterization of 1,906 EST-SSR Markers from Unigenes in Jute (Corchorus spp.)

    PubMed Central

    Zhang, Liwu; Li, Yanru; Tao, Aifen; Fang, Pingping; Qi, Jianmin

    2015-01-01

    Jute, comprising white and dark jute, is the second important natural fiber crop after cotton worldwide. However, the lack of expressed sequence tag-derived simple sequence repeat (EST-SSR) markers has resulted in a large gap in the improvement of jute. Previously, de novo 48,914 unigenes from white jute were assembled. In this study, 1,906 EST-SSRs were identified from these assembled uingenes. Among these markers, di-, tri- and tetra-nucleotide repeat types were the abundant types (12.0%, 56.9% and 21.6% respectively). The AG-rich or GA-rich nucleotide repeats were the predominant. Subsequently, a sample of 116 SSRs, located in genes encoding transcription factors and cellulose synthases, were selected to survey polymorphisms among12 diverse jute accessions. Of these, 83.6% successfully amplified at least one fragment and detected polymorphism among the 12diverse genotypes, indicating that the newly developed SSRs are of good quality. Furthermore, the genetic similarity coefficients of all the 12 accessions were evaluated using 97 polymorphic SSRs. The cluster analysis divided the jute accessions into two main groups with genetic similarity coefficient of 0.61. These EST-SSR markers not only enrich molecular markers of jute genome, but also facilitate genetic and genomic researches in jute. PMID:26512891

  12. Clinical balance assessment: perceptions of commonly-used standardized measures and current practices among physiotherapists in Ontario, Canada.

    PubMed

    Sibley, Kathryn M; Straus, Sharon E; Inness, Elizabeth L; Salbach, Nancy M; Jaglal, Susan B

    2013-03-20

    Balance impairment is common in multiple clinical populations, and comprehensive assessment is important for identifying impairments, planning individualized treatment programs, and evaluating change over time. However, little information is available regarding whether clinicians who treat balance are satisfied with existing assessment tools. In 2010 we conducted a cross-sectional survey of balance assessment practices among physiotherapists in Ontario, Canada, and reported on the use of standardized balance measures (Sibley et al. 2011 Physical Therapy; 91: 1583-91). The purpose of this study was to analyse additional survey data and i) evaluate satisfaction with current balance assessment practices and standardized measures among physiotherapists who treat adult or geriatric populations with balance impairment, and ii) identify factors associated with satisfaction. The questionnaire was distributed to 1000 practicing physiotherapists. This analysis focuses on questions in which respondents were asked to rate their general perceptions about balance assessment, the perceived utility of individual standardized balance measures, whether they wanted to improve balance assessment practices, and why. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics and utility of individual measures was compared across clinical practice areas (orthopaedic, neurological, geriatric or general rehabilitation). The questionnaire was completed by 369 respondents, of which 43.4% of respondents agreed that existing standardized measures of balance meet their needs. In ratings of individual measures, the Single Leg Stance test and Berg Balance Scale were perceived as useful for clinical decision-making and evaluating change over time by over 70% of respondents, and the Timed Up-and-Go test was perceived as useful for decision-making by 56.9% of respondents and useful for evaluating change over time by 62.9% of respondents, but there were significant differences across practice groups. Seventy-nine percent of respondents wanted to improve their assessments, identifying individual, environmental and measure-specific barriers. The most common barriers were lack of time and knowledge. This study offers new information on issues affecting the evaluation of balance in clinical settings from a broad sample of physiotherapists. Continued work to address barriers by specific practice area will be critical for the success of any intervention attempting to implement optimal balance assessment practices in the clinical setting.

  13. Rheumatic Heart Disease-Attributable Mortality at Ages 5-69 Years in Fiji: A Five-Year, National, Population-Based Record-Linkage Cohort Study.

    PubMed

    Parks, Tom; Kado, Joseph; Miller, Anne E; Ward, Brenton; Heenan, Rachel; Colquhoun, Samantha M; Bärnighausen, Till W; Mirabel, Mariana; Bloom, David E; Bailey, Robin L; Tukana, Isimeli N; Steer, Andrew C

    2015-01-01

    Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is considered a major public health problem in developing countries, although scarce data are available to substantiate this. Here we quantify mortality from RHD in Fiji during 2008-2012 in people aged 5-69 years. Using 1,773,999 records derived from multiple sources of routine clinical and administrative data, we used probabilistic record-linkage to define a cohort of 2,619 persons diagnosed with RHD, observed for all-cause mortality over 11,538 person-years. Using relative survival methods, we estimated there were 378 RHD-attributable deaths, almost half of which occurred before age 40 years. Using census data as the denominator, we calculated there were 9.9 deaths (95% CI 9.8-10.0) and 331 years of life-lost (YLL, 95% CI 330.4-331.5) due to RHD per 100,000 person-years, standardised to the portion of the WHO World Standard Population aged 0-69 years. Valuing life using Fiji's per-capita gross domestic product, we estimated these deaths cost United States Dollar $6,077,431 annually. Compared to vital registration data for 2011-2012, we calculated there were 1.6-times more RHD-attributable deaths than the number reported, and found our estimate of RHD mortality exceeded all but the five leading reported causes of premature death, based on collapsed underlying cause-of-death diagnoses. Rheumatic heart disease is a leading cause of premature death as well as an important economic burden in this setting. Age-standardised death rates are more than twice those reported in current global estimates. Linkage of routine data provides an efficient tool to better define the epidemiology of neglected diseases.

  14. The complete mitochondrial genome of threatened chocolate mahseer (Neolissochilus hexagonolepis) and its phylogeny.

    PubMed

    Sahoo, Prabhati Kumari; Goel, Chirag; Kumar, Rohit; Dhama, Nisha; Ali, Shahnawaz; Sarma, Dandadhar; Nanda, Prasanta; Barat, Ashoktaru

    2015-10-10

    The chocolate mahseer (Neolissochilus hexagonolepis) is an important food and game fish of North Eastern India. To study the phylogenetic status we sequenced the complete mitochondrial genome of N. hexagonolepis. The mitogenome is 16,563 bp in length and composed of 13 protein coding genes, 22 tRNAs, 2 rRNAs and one putative control region. The overall base composition was A 31.8%, T 25.0%, G 15.8%, C 27.4% and A+T content 56.9%, G+C content 43.1%. The phylogenetic analysis using the complete mitochondrial genome revealed that the chocolate mahseer belonged to same clade of mahseer group of fishes but different from genera Barbus and Acrossocheilus. The present study will be helpful for the evolution and conservation genetic studies of N. hexagonolepis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Teacher self-efficacy and perceived autonomy: relations with teacher engagement, job satisfaction, and emotional exhaustion.

    PubMed

    Skaalvik, Einar M; Skaalvik, Sidsel

    2014-02-01

    When studied separately, research shows that both teacher self-efficacy and teacher autonomy are associated with adaptive motivational and emotional outcomes. This study tested whether teacher self-efficacy and teacher autonomy are independently associated with engagement, job satisfaction, and emotional exhaustion. 2,569 Norwegian teachers in elementary school and middle school (719 men, 1,850 women; M age = 45.0 yr., SD = 11.5) were administered the Norwegian Teacher Self-Efficacy Scale, the Teacher Autonomy Scale, the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale, the Teacher Job Satisfaction Scale, and the Maslach Burnout Inventory. The analysis revealed that both teacher autonomy and self-efficacy were independent predictors of engagement, job satisfaction, and emotional exhaustion. This study suggests that autonomy or decision latitude works positively but through different processes for teachers with high and low mastery expectations.

  16. Increased risk of histologically defined cancer subtypes in human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals: clues for possible immunosuppression-related or infectious etiology.

    PubMed

    Shiels, Meredith S; Engels, Eric A

    2012-10-01

    Malignancies that occur in excess among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals may be caused by immunosuppression or infections. Because histologically defined cancer subtypes have not been systematically evaluated, their risk was assessed among people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Analyses included 569,268 people with AIDS from the HIV/AIDS Cancer Match Study, a linkage of 15 US population-based HIV/AIDS and cancer registries during 1980 to 2007. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were estimated to compare cancer risk in people with AIDS to the general population overall, and stratified by age, calendar period (a proxy of changing HIV therapies), and time since onset of AIDS (a proxy of immunosuppression). Sixteen individual cancer histologies or histology groupings manifested significantly elevated SIRs. Risks were most elevated for adult T cell leukemia/lymphoma (SIR = 11.3), neoplasms of histiocytes and accessory lymphoid cells (SIR = 10.7), giant cell carcinoma (SIR = 7.51), and leukemia not otherwise specified (SIR = 6.69). SIRs ranged from 1.4 to 4.6 for spindle cell carcinoma, bronchioloalveolar adenocarcinoma, adnexal and skin appendage neoplasms, sarcoma not otherwise specified, spindle cell sarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, mesothelioma, germ cell tumors, plasma cell tumors, immunoproliferative diseases, acute lymphocytic leukemia, and myeloid leukemias. For several of these cancer subtypes, significant declines in SIRs were observed across calendar periods (consistent with decreasing risk with improved HIV therapies) or increase in SIRs with time since onset of AIDS (ie, prolonged immunosuppression). The elevated risk of certain cancer subtypes in people with AIDS may point to an etiologic role of immunosuppression or infection. Future studies are needed to further investigate these associations and evaluate candidate infectious agents. Copyright © 2012 American Cancer Society.

  17. Increased suicide risk and clinical correlates of suicide among patients with Parkinson's disease.

    PubMed

    Lee, Taeyeop; Lee, Hochang Benjamin; Ahn, Myung Hee; Kim, Juyeon; Kim, Mi Sun; Chung, Sun Ju; Hong, Jin Pyo

    2016-11-01

    Parkinson's disease (PD) is a debilitating, neurodegenerative condition frequently complicated by psychiatric symptoms. Patients with PD may be at higher risk for suicide than the general population, but previous estimates are limited and conflicting. The aim of this study is to estimate the suicide rate based on the clinical case registry and to identify risk factors for suicide among patients diagnosed with PD. The target sample consisted of 4362 patients diagnosed with PD who were evaluated at a general hospital in Seoul, South Korea, from 1996 to 2012. The standardized mortality ratio for suicide among PD patients was estimated. In order to identify the clinical correlates of suicide, case-control study was conducted based on retrospective chart review. The 29 suicide cases (age: 62.3 ± 13.7 years; females: 34.5%) were matched with 116 non-suicide controls (age: 63.5 ± 9.2 years; females 56.9%) by the year of initial PD evaluation. The SMR for suicide in PD patients was 1.99 (95% CI 1.33-2.85). Mean duration from time of initial diagnosis to suicide among cases was 6.1 ± 3.5 years. Case-control analysis revealed that male, initial extremity of motor symptom onset, history of depressive disorder, delusion, any psychiatric disorder, and higher L-dopa dosage were significantly associated with suicide among PD patients. Other PD-related variables such as UPDRS motor score were not significantly associated with death by suicide. Suicide risk in PD patients is approximately 2 times higher than that in the general population. Psychiatric disorders, and also L-dopa medication need further attention with respect to suicide. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  18. SU-E-T-569: Neutron Shielding Calculation Using Analytical and Multi-Monte Carlo Method for Proton Therapy Facility

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

    Cho, S; Shin, E H; Kim, J

    2015-06-15

    Purpose: To evaluate the shielding wall design to protect patients, staff and member of the general public for secondary neutron using a simply analytic solution, multi-Monte Carlo code MCNPX, ANISN and FLUKA. Methods: An analytical and multi-Monte Carlo method were calculated for proton facility (Sumitomo Heavy Industry Ltd.) at Samsung Medical Center in Korea. The NCRP-144 analytical evaluation methods, which produced conservative estimates on the dose equivalent values for the shielding, were used for analytical evaluations. Then, the radiation transport was simulated with the multi-Monte Carlo code. The neutron dose at evaluation point is got by the value using themore » production of the simulation value and the neutron dose coefficient introduced in ICRP-74. Results: The evaluation points of accelerator control room and control room entrance are mainly influenced by the point of the proton beam loss. So the neutron dose equivalent of accelerator control room for evaluation point is 0.651, 1.530, 0.912, 0.943 mSv/yr and the entrance of cyclotron room is 0.465, 0.790, 0.522, 0.453 mSv/yr with calculation by the method of NCRP-144 formalism, ANISN, FLUKA and MCNP, respectively. The most of Result of MCNPX and FLUKA using the complicated geometry showed smaller values than Result of ANISN. Conclusion: The neutron shielding for a proton therapy facility has been evaluated by the analytic model and multi-Monte Carlo methods. We confirmed that the setting of shielding was located in well accessible area to people when the proton facility is operated.« less

  19. Impact of Combined Estradiol and Norethindrone Therapy on Visuospatial Working Memory Assessed by Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging**

    PubMed Central

    Smith, Yolanda R.; Love, Tiffany; Persad, Carol C.; Tkaczyk, Anne; Nichols, Thomas E.; Zubieta, Jon-Kar

    2007-01-01

    Context Hormones regulate neuronal function in brain regions critical to cognition; however the cognitive effects of postmenopausal hormone therapy are controversial. Objective The goal was to evaluate the effect of postmenopausal hormone therapy on neural circuitry involved in spatial working memory. Design A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled cross-over study was performed. Setting The study was performed in a tertiary care university medical center. Participants Ten healthy postmenopausal women of average age 56.9 years were recruited. Interventions Volunteers were randomized to the order they received hormone therapy, 5 ug ethinyl estradiol and 1 mg norethindrone acetate. Subjects received hormone therapy or placebo for 4 weeks, followed by a one month washout period with no medications, and then received the other treatment for 4 weeks. At the end of each 4 week treatment period a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) study was performed utilizing a nonverbal (spatial) working memory task, the Visual Delayed Matching to Sample task. Main Outcome Measure The effects of hormone therapy on brain activation patterns were compared to placebo. Results Compared to the placebo condition, hormone therapy was associated with a more pronounced activation in the prefrontal cortex (BA 44 and 45), bilaterally (p<0.001). Conclusions Hormone therapy was associated with more effective activation of a brain region critical in primary visual working memory tasks. The data suggest a functional plasticity of memory systems in older women that can be altered by hormones. PMID:16912129

  20. Soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and interleukin-6 levels in hyperemesis gravidarum.

    PubMed

    Desdicioglu, Raziye; Yildirim, Melahat; Kocaoglu, Gulcan; Demir Cendek, Busra; Avcioglu, Gamze; Tas, Emre Erdem; Sengul, Ozlem; Erel, Ozcan; Yavuz, Ayse Filiz

    2017-10-09

    The aim was to compare serum soluble urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) levels as well as interleukin-6 levels (IL-6) in pregnant women with hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and asymptomatic pregnant women. Our study population consists of voluntary first trimester-pregnant women who applied to the outpatient clinic of the department of obstetrics and gynecology of Ankara Ataturk Training and Research Hospital. Between February and May 2016, 60 pregnant women were included in our prospective study. Serum suPAR and IL-6 levels were evaluated with the ELISA method. Twenty-nine pregnant women with HG and 31 asymptomatic pregnant women were included in the study. Serum suPAR level in the HG group was measured as 0.36 ± 0.56 ng/ml, whereas this level in the healthy pregnant control group was measured as 0.15 ± 0.15 ng/ml (p < 0.05). The interleukin-6 level in the HG group was 5.69 ± 2.16 pg/ml, whereas in the control group it was measured as 3.88 ± 0.28 pg/ml (p < 0.05). Serum suPAR and IL-6 levels proved to be high in the HG group. It is likely that suPAR could play a role in the etiopathogenesis of hyperemesis gravidarum. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Taiwan LLC.

  1. Primary hyperparathyroidism is associated with subclinical peripheral neural alterations.

    PubMed

    Diniz, Erik Trovão; Bandeira, Francisco; Lins, Otávio Gomes; Cavalcanti, Érica Nogueira Bezerra; de Arruda, Tiago Matos; Januário, Alexandre Medeiros Sampaio; Diniz, Kaisa Trovão; Marques, Thyciara Fontenele; Azevedo, Hildo

    2013-01-01

    Some case reports have suggested primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) and peripheral polyneuropathy (PPN) are associated; however, there are no reports of studies examining this possible relationship. The aim of this study was to evaluate peripheral nerve conduction in subjects with PHPT. The study involved 17 patients with PHPT. Mean patient age was 60.5 ± 12.9 years, serum calcium concentration was 11.5 ± 1.0 mg/dL, and the serum parathyroid hormone (PTH) level was 315 ± 569 pg/dL. The control group comprised 17 individuals without PHPT. The mean age of controls was 60.8 ± 12.5 years and the serum calcium concentration was 9.8 ± 0.3 mg/dL. Motor and sensory nerve conduction was assessed by electroneurography (ENG). The following ENG parameters differed significantly between the PHPT and control groups: right (R) sural sensory nerve action potential conduction velocity (52.7 ± 6.3 m/s versus 58.0 ± 8.0 m/s; P = .041); R median compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude (7.4 ± 1.6 mV versus 8.9 ± 1.7 mV; P = .002); R median CMAP latency (4.3 ± 1.2 ms versus 3.6 ± 0.6 ms; P = .032); R tibial CMAP latency (4.2 ± 1.1 ms versus 3.3 ± 0.4 ms; P = .001). The neurological examination was normal in all patients. Our data demonstrate an association between PHPT and peripheral neurological alterations, consistent with subclinical sensory-motor PPN.

  2. Can Particulate Air Sampling Predict Microbial Load in Operating Theatres for Arthroplasty?

    PubMed Central

    Cristina, Maria Luisa; Spagnolo, Anna Maria; Sartini, Marina; Panatto, Donatella; Gasparini, Roberto; Orlando, Paolo; Ottria, Gianluca; Perdelli, Fernanda

    2012-01-01

    Several studies have proposed that the microbiological quality of the air in operating theatres be indirectly evaluated by means of particle counting, a technique derived from industrial clean-room technology standards, using airborne particle concentration as an index of microbial contamination. However, the relationship between particle counting and microbiological sampling has rarely been evaluated and demonstrated in operating theatres. The aim of the present study was to determine whether particle counting could predict microbiological contamination of the air in an operating theatre during 95 surgical arthroplasty procedures. This investigation was carried out over a period of three months in 2010 in an orthopedic operating theatre devoted exclusively to prosthetic surgery. During each procedure, the bacterial contamination of the air was determined by means of active sampling; at the same time, airborne particulate contamination was assessed throughout the entire procedure. On considering the total number of surgical operations, the mean value of the total bacterial load in the center of the operating theatre proved to be 35 CFU/m3; the mean particle count was 4,194,569 no./m3 for particles of diameter ≥0.5 µm and 13,519 no./m3 for particles of diameter ≥5 µm. No significant differences emerged between the median values of the airborne microbial load recorded during the two types of procedure monitored. Particulates with a diameter of ≥0.5 µm were detected in statistically higher concentrations (p<0.001) during knee-replacement procedures. By contrast, particulates with a diameter of ≥5 µm displayed a statistically higher concentration during hip-replacement procedures (p<0.05). The results did not reveal any statistically significant correlation between microbial loads and particle counts for either of the particle diameters considered (≥0.5 µm and ≥5 µm). Consequently, microbiological monitoring remains the most suitable method of evaluating the quality of air in operating theatres. PMID:23285189

  3. Can particulate air sampling predict microbial load in operating theatres for arthroplasty?

    PubMed

    Cristina, Maria Luisa; Spagnolo, Anna Maria; Sartini, Marina; Panatto, Donatella; Gasparini, Roberto; Orlando, Paolo; Ottria, Gianluca; Perdelli, Fernanda

    2012-01-01

    Several studies have proposed that the microbiological quality of the air in operating theatres be indirectly evaluated by means of particle counting, a technique derived from industrial clean-room technology standards, using airborne particle concentration as an index of microbial contamination. However, the relationship between particle counting and microbiological sampling has rarely been evaluated and demonstrated in operating theatres. The aim of the present study was to determine whether particle counting could predict microbiological contamination of the air in an operating theatre during 95 surgical arthroplasty procedures. This investigation was carried out over a period of three months in 2010 in an orthopedic operating theatre devoted exclusively to prosthetic surgery. During each procedure, the bacterial contamination of the air was determined by means of active sampling; at the same time, airborne particulate contamination was assessed throughout the entire procedure. On considering the total number of surgical operations, the mean value of the total bacterial load in the center of the operating theatre proved to be 35 CFU/m(3); the mean particle count was 4,194,569 no./m(3) for particles of diameter ≥0.5 µm and 13,519 no./m(3) for particles of diameter ≥5 µm. No significant differences emerged between the median values of the airborne microbial load recorded during the two types of procedure monitored. Particulates with a diameter of ≥0.5 µm were detected in statistically higher concentrations (p<0.001) during knee-replacement procedures. By contrast, particulates with a diameter of ≥5 µm displayed a statistically higher concentration during hip-replacement procedures (p<0.05). The results did not reveal any statistically significant correlation between microbial loads and particle counts for either of the particle diameters considered (≥0.5 µm and ≥5 µm). Consequently, microbiological monitoring remains the most suitable method of evaluating the quality of air in operating theatres.

  4. Twenty-four-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring for clinical evaluation of hypertensive patients in primary care: which groups would most benefit?

    PubMed

    Grezzana, Guilherme B; Stein, Airton T; Pellanda, Lucia C

    2017-04-01

    Arterial hypertension is an important risk factor for cardiovascular outcomes. Blood pressure (BP) control levels remain largely out of target among primary healthcare (PHC) patients. Twenty-four-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) may contribute toward the identification of cardiovascular risk groups. To assess concordance between conventional office BP measurements and 24-h ABPM of hypertension control in cardiovascular risk groups of PHC hypertensive patients. A cross-sectional study with 569 hypertensive patients was carried out. The evaluation of BP was performed by a PHC doctor, and the 24-h ABPM was performed by a different and blinded provider. The therapeutic targets for BP followed the guidance of The Eighth Joint National Committee, the Brazilian guideline, and the 2013 European Society of Hypertension. Considering the hypertension control therapeutic targets, the guidelines were not similar and were used to evaluate differences in BP value concordances compared with BP standard measurements. After a multivariate logistic regression analysis, a conventional BP was used in comparison with ABPM in different cardiovascular risk groups of hypertensive patients. According to the ABPM by European Society of Hypertension guideline, the subgroup of inactive patients (P=0.006), with altered glycemia (P=0.015) and over 30 mg/dl albuminuria (P=0.001), presented discordance among methods. When a conventional BP measurement in comparison with the ABPM results according to the Brazilian ABPM guideline was used, the discordance occurred significantly in inactive (P=0.001) and microalbuminuria more than 30 mg/dl (P=0.022) subgroups. However, in this comparison, a concordance between high-density lipoprotein more than 60 mg/dl (P=0.015) and obesity (P=0.035) subgroups occurred. Uncontrolled glucose levels, a sedentary lifestyle, and the presence of microalbuminuria correspond to some cardiovascular risk groups that would particularly benefit from 24-h ABPM as a tool for the control of BP with the PHC hypertensive patients of this study.

  5. Pedicle Screw Insertion Accuracy Using O-Arm, Robotic Guidance, or Freehand Technique: A Comparative Study.

    PubMed

    Laudato, Pietro Aniello; Pierzchala, Katarzyna; Schizas, Constantin

    2018-03-15

    A retrospective radiological study. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of pedicle screw insertion using O-Arm navigation, robotic assistance, or a freehand fluoroscopic technique. Pedicle screw insertion using either "O-Arm" navigation or robotic devices is gaining popularity. Although several studies are available evaluating each of those techniques separately, no direct comparison has been attempted. Eighty-four patients undergoing implantation of 569 lumbar and thoracic screws were divided into three groups. Eleven patients (64 screws) had screws inserted using robotic assistance, 25 patients (191 screws) using the O-arm, while 48 patients (314 screws) had screws inserted using lateral fluoroscopy in a freehand technique. A single experienced spine surgeon assisted by a spinal fellow performed all procedures. Screw placement accuracy was assessed by two independent observers on postoperative computed tomography (CTs) according to the A to D Rampersaud criteria. No statistically significant difference was noted between the three groups. About 70.4% of screws in the freehand group, 69.6% in the O arm group, and 78.8% in the robotic group were placed completely within the pedicle margins (grade A) (P > 0.05). About 6.4% of screws were considered misplaced (grades C&D) in the freehand group, 4.2% in the O-arm group, and 4.7% in the robotic group (P > 0.05). The spinal fellow inserted screws with the same accuracy as the senior surgeon (P > 0.05). The advent of new technologies does not appear to alter accuracy of screw placement in our setting. Under supervision, spinal fellows might perform equally well to experienced surgeons using new tools. The lack of difference in accuracy does not imply that the above-mentioned techniques have no added advantages. Other issues, such as surgeon/patient radiation, fiddle factor, teaching suitability, etc., outside the scope of our present study, need further assessment. 3.

  6. Implementation of genomic recursions in single-step genomic best linear unbiased predictor for US Holsteins with a large number of genotyped animals.

    PubMed

    Masuda, Y; Misztal, I; Tsuruta, S; Legarra, A; Aguilar, I; Lourenco, D A L; Fragomeni, B O; Lawlor, T J

    2016-03-01

    The objectives of this study were to develop and evaluate an efficient implementation in the computation of the inverse of genomic relationship matrix with the recursion algorithm, called the algorithm for proven and young (APY), in single-step genomic BLUP. We validated genomic predictions for young bulls with more than 500,000 genotyped animals in final score for US Holsteins. Phenotypic data included 11,626,576 final scores on 7,093,380 US Holstein cows, and genotypes were available for 569,404 animals. Daughter deviations for young bulls with no classified daughters in 2009, but at least 30 classified daughters in 2014 were computed using all the phenotypic data. Genomic predictions for the same bulls were calculated with single-step genomic BLUP using phenotypes up to 2009. We calculated the inverse of the genomic relationship matrix GAPY(-1) based on a direct inversion of genomic relationship matrix on a small subset of genotyped animals (core animals) and extended that information to noncore animals by recursion. We tested several sets of core animals including 9,406 bulls with at least 1 classified daughter, 9,406 bulls and 1,052 classified dams of bulls, 9,406 bulls and 7,422 classified cows, and random samples of 5,000 to 30,000 animals. Validation reliability was assessed by the coefficient of determination from regression of daughter deviation on genomic predictions for the predicted young bulls. The reliabilities were 0.39 with 5,000 randomly chosen core animals, 0.45 with the 9,406 bulls, and 7,422 cows as core animals, and 0.44 with the remaining sets. With phenotypes truncated in 2009 and the preconditioned conjugate gradient to solve mixed model equations, the number of rounds to convergence for core animals defined by bulls was 1,343; defined by bulls and cows, 2,066; and defined by 10,000 random animals, at most 1,629. With complete phenotype data, the number of rounds decreased to 858, 1,299, and at most 1,092, respectively. Setting up GAPY(-1) for 569,404 genotyped animals with 10,000 core animals took 1.3h and 57 GB of memory. The validation reliability with APY reaches a plateau when the number of core animals is at least 10,000. Predictions with APY have little differences in reliability among definitions of core animals. Single-step genomic BLUP with APY is applicable to millions of genotyped animals. Copyright © 2016 American Dairy Science Association. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. Exact Algorithms for Output Encoding, State Assignment and Four-Level Boolean Minimization

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1989-10-01

    APPROVED FOR PUBLIC DISTRIBUTION • DTIC MASSACHUSETTS INTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY M VLSI PUBLICATIONSJAN 17 1990 VLSI Memo No. 89-569 JN. 9October 1989...nunijize large funclions exacly within reasonable amocunt. of CPt targeting twro-level logic imnplemientations involve finding ap- time. However, thle ,, m ...0(NV!) m ~iimizations . n5 10 The inptut encoding problemt can be exactly solved using mrultiple-valued Boolean nimuization. We present an exact (a) (b

  8. 40 CFR 421.315 - Pretreatment standards for existing sources.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236 Tungsten 0.679 0... tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700 150.700 Cobalt 7.096 3.111... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 6.583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600...

  9. 40 CFR 421.315 - Pretreatment standards for existing sources.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236 Tungsten 0.679 0... tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700 150.700 Cobalt 7.096 3.111... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 6.583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600...

  10. 40 CFR 421.315 - Pretreatment standards for existing sources.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236 Tungsten 0.679 0... tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700 150.700 Cobalt 7.096 3.111... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 6.583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600...

  11. 40 CFR 421.315 - Pretreatment standards for existing sources.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236 Tungsten 0.679 0... tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700 150.700 Cobalt 7.096 3.111... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 6.583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600...

  12. 40 CFR 421.315 - Pretreatment standards for existing sources.

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236 Tungsten 0.679 0... tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700 150.700 Cobalt 7.096 3.111... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 6.583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600...

  13. Prime Contract Awards by Service Category and Federal Supply Classification, Fiscal Years 1992, 1991, 1990 and 1989

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1992-01-01

    152.322 G009 Non-Government Insurance Programs 314 0 0 314 0 0 0 G099 Other Social Services 10 , 197 2,466 7,33 -. 150 0 0 251 HHO Quality Control...Filters 14.574 4,499 7.314 886 1,735 140 0 4410 Industrial Boilers 6,569 178 5.876 434 80 0 4420 Heat Exchangers and Steam Condensers 2.848 144

  14. APOLLO XVI - LIFTOFF - KSC

    NASA Image and Video Library

    1972-04-16

    S72-35345 (16 April 1972) --- The huge, 363-feet tall Apollo 16 (Spacecraft 113/Lunar Module 11/Saturn 511) space vehicle is launched from Pad A, Launch Complex 39, Kennedy Space Center (KSC), Florida, at 12:54:00.569 p.m.(EST), April 16, 1972, on a lunar landing mission. Aboard the Apollo 16 spacecraft were astronauts John W. Young, commander; Thomas K. Mattingly II, command module pilot; and Charles M. Duke Jr., lunar module pilot.

  15. Children Treated at an Expeditionary Military Hospital in Iraq

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-09-01

    5) Gastroesophageal reflux (530.81) 1 Rectal prolapse (569.1) 1 Aspirated foreign object (934) 1 Dehydration (276.5) 1 Failure to thrive (783.41) 1...ICD-9, International Classification of Diseases , Ninth Revision. (REPRINTED) ARCH PEDIATR ADOLESC MED/ VOL 160, SEP 2006 WWW.ARCHPEDIATRICS.COM 974...Pediatric diseases and operational deployments. Mil Med. 2000;165:283- 286. 2. Chmatal P, Bohonek M, Dobiasova M, Hasek R, Cernohous M. A humanitarian

  16. A Dynamic Model for Induced Reactivation of Latent Virus

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2005-12-04

    with human herpesvirus-6 in EBV -negative infectious mononucleosis , Journal of Medical Virology 71 (4), 569-577, 2003. [35] Wu FY, Ahn JH, Alcendor DJ...model that describes the reactivation of latent herpes virus by metabolic end products of anaerobic bacteria. Herpes viruses are double-stranded DNA ...cells that may be different from the types of cells targeted for primary infection. Latent virus persists in the cell nucleus as episomal DNA until it

  17. Microenvironment-Programmed Metastatic Prostate Cancer Stem Cells (mPCSCs)

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-10-01

    osteoblastic differentiation during aging . Rejuvenation Res 2006;9:10–9. 25] Gao FB, Raff M. Cell size control and a cell-intrinsic maturation program in...self- renewing long-term tumor-propagating cells that resist castration. Cell Stem Cell 10, 556-569 (2012). 8. Rybak, A.P., Bristow, R.G., & Kapoor, A...established clinical tumor is sustained by subpopulations of self- renewing cancer cells operationally called cancer stem cells (CSC) that can generate

  18. JPRS Report, East Europe.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1992-11-19

    interesting and frequently ironic-sounding, not to say cynical, leader of the League for Democracy, Gjorgi Marjanovic , has been able to retain his rating...Crvenkovski 642.5 V. Tupurkovski 520 J. Andonov 505 P. Gosev 502.5 Lj. Frckovski 452.5 G. Marjanovic 345 J. Miljovski 157.5 A. Popovski 142.5...Andov 9.72% Lj. Georgievski 5.69% A. Popovski 3.12% G. Marjanovic 2.57% Other 5.87% Personality or Party? Personality regardless of party

  19. Complete Genome Sequence of Methylobacterium populi P-1M, Isolated from Pink-Pigmented Household Biofilm.

    PubMed

    Morohoshi, Tomohiro; Ikeda, Tsukasa

    2016-06-16

    Methylobacterium populi P-1M is isolated from the pink-pigmented household biofilm. Here, we present the complete genome sequence of P-1M, consisting of one chromosome of 5,705,640 bp and five plasmids of 64,864 bp, 59,879 bp, 42,569 bp, 41,417 bp, and 29,506 bp. Copyright © 2016 Morohoshi and Ikeda.

  20. Association between fibroblast growth factor 21 and bone mineral density in adults.

    PubMed

    Hao, Ruo-Han; Gao, Jun-Ling; Li, Meng; Huang, Wei; Zhu, Dong-Li; Thynn, Hlaing Nwe; Dong, Shan-Shan; Guo, Yan

    2018-02-01

    Animal-based studies have reported a decrease in bone mass resulting from high level of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21). However, the correlation between plasma FGF21 levels and bone mineral density (BMD) is paradoxical in previous human-based studies, and the associations between FGF21 gene polymorphisms and BMD haven't been reported yet. Therefore, here, we evaluated plasma FGF21 levels with sufficient study samples, and performed genetic association test to reveal the physiological and genetic role of FGF21 on BMD in adults. Plasma and genetic samples containing 168 and 569 Han Chinese subjects, respectively, were employed in this study. Fasting plasma FGF21 levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Regional BMD values were measured by dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Five variants of FGF21 gene were successfully genotyped. Physiological association suggested that plasma FGF21 levels were inversely correlated with BMD in femoral neck (Neck-BMD: P = 0.039) and Ward's triangle (Ward's-BMD: P = 0.002) of hip region. A FGF21 gene variant, rs490942, was significantly associated with the increase of Ward's-BMD in total (P = 0.027) and female (P = 0.016) cohorts, as well as Neck-BMD in female cohort (P = 7.45 × 10 -3 ). Meanwhile, eQTL results indicated that this SNP was related to the decreased level of FGF21 gene expression. Taking together from both physiological and genetic levels, we suggest that FGF21 is inversely associated with regional BMD. And we haven't observed sex-specific effect in this study.

  1. Cost-effectiveness analysis of implementing an antimicrobial stewardship program in critical care units.

    PubMed

    Ruiz-Ramos, Jesus; Frasquet, Juan; Romá, Eva; Poveda-Andres, Jose Luis; Salavert-Leti, Miguel; Castellanos, Alvaro; Ramirez, Paula

    2017-06-01

    To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of antimicrobial stewardship (AS) program implementation focused on critical care units based on assumptions for the Spanish setting. A decision model comparing costs and outcomes of sepsis, community-acquired pneumonia, and nosocomial infections (including catheter-related bacteremia, urinary tract infection, and ventilator-associated pneumonia) in critical care units with or without an AS was designed. Model variables and costs, along with their distributions, were obtained from the literature. The study was performed from the Spanish National Health System (NHS) perspective, including only direct costs. The Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (ICER) was analysed regarding the ability of the program to reduce multi-drug resistant bacteria. Uncertainty in ICERs was evaluated with probabilistic sensitivity analyses. In the short-term, implementing an AS reduces the consumption of antimicrobials with a net benefit of €71,738. In the long-term, the maintenance of the program involves an additional cost to the system of €107,569. Cost per avoided resistance was €7,342, and cost-per-life-years gained (LYG) was €9,788. Results from the probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that there was a more than 90% likelihood that an AS would be cost-effective at a level of €8,000 per LYG. Wide variability of economic results obtained from the implementation of this type of AS program and short information on their impact on patient evolution and any resistance avoided. Implementing an AS focusing on critical care patients is a long-term cost-effective tool. Implementation costs are amortized by reducing antimicrobial consumption to prevent infection by multidrug-resistant pathogens.

  2. [Evaluation of mass spectrometry for the identification of clinically interesting yeasts].

    PubMed

    Galán, Fátima; García-Agudo, Lidia; Guerrero, Inmaculada; Marín, Pilar; García-Tapia, Ana; García-Martos, Pedro; Rodríguez-Iglesias, Manuel

    2015-01-01

    Identification of yeasts is based on morphological, biochemical and nutritional characteristics, and using molecular methods. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, a new method for the identification of microorganisms, has demonstrated to be very useful. The aim of this study is to evaluate this new method in the identification of yeasts. A total of 600 strains of yeasts isolated from clinical specimens belonging to 9 genera and 43 species were tested. Identification was made by sequencing of the ITS regions of ribosomal DNA, assimilation of carbon compounds (ID 32C), and mass spectrometry on a Microflex spectrometer (Bruker Daltonics GmbH, Germany). A total of 569 strains (94.8%) were identified to species level by ID 32C, and 580 (96.7%) by MALDI-TOF. Concordance between both methods was observed for 553 strains (92.2%), with 100% in clinically relevant species: C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, and almost 100% in C. krusei. MALDI-TOF identified species requiring molecular methods: Candida dubliniensis, C. nivariensis, C. metapsilosis and C. orthopsilosis. Some irregularities were observed in the identification of arthroconidia yeast and basidiomycetes. MALDI-TOF is a rapid, effective and economic method, which enables the identification of most clinically important yeasts and the differentiation of closely related species. It would be desirable to include more species in its database to expand its performance. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier España, S.L.U. y Sociedad Española de Enfermedades Infecciosas y Microbiología Clínica. All rights reserved.

  3. Development of novel DNA markers for genetic analysis of grey hamsters by cross-species amplification of microsatellites.

    PubMed

    Wang, C; Zhang, S J; Du, X Y; Xu, Y M; Huo, X Y; Liao, L F; Chen, Z W

    2015-11-13

    The grey hamster has been used in biomedical research for decades. However, effective molecular methods for evaluating the genetic structure of this species are lacking, which hinders its wider usage. In this study, we employed cross-amplification of microsatellite loci of species within the same genus by polymerase chain reaction. Loci screened included 107 from the Mongolian gerbil (MG) and 60 from the Chinese hamster (CH); of these, 15 polymorphic loci were identified for the grey hamster. Of the 167 loci screened, 95 (56.9%) with clear bands on agarose gel were initially identified. After sequencing, 74 (77.9%) of these matched the criteria for microsatellite characteristics, including 41 from MG and 33 from CH. Lastly, 15 (20.3%) loci with more than two alleles for each locus were identified through capillary electrophoresis scanning. To justify the applicability of the 15 grey hamster loci, genetic indexes of grey hamsters were evaluated using 46 generations of outbred stock, established 20 years ago, from Xinjiang, China. Mean effective allele numbers and expected heterozygosity of stock were as low as, respectively, 1.2 and 0.14; these were 2.8 and 4.0 times inferior, respectively, to wild grey hamsters. This finding suggests that the genetic structure of the stock-bred population is too weak to resist artificial and natural selection, mutation and genetic drifting. In conclusion, we have developed de novo microsatellite markers for genetic analysis of the grey hamster, providing data and methodology for the enrichment of a genetic library for this species.

  4. Outcomes of microscope-integrated intraoperative optical coherence tomography-guided center-sparing internal limiting membrane peeling for myopic traction maculopathy: a novel technique.

    PubMed

    Kumar, Atul; Ravani, Raghav; Mehta, Aditi; Simakurthy, Sriram; Dhull, Chirakshi

    2017-07-04

    To evaluate the outcomes of pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with microscope-integrated intraoperative optical coherence tomography (I-OCT)-guided traction removal and center-sparing internal limiting membrane (cs-ILM) peeling. Nine eyes with myopic traction maculopathy as diagnosed on SD-OCT underwent PPV with I-OCT-guided cs-ILM peeling and were evaluated prospectively for resolution of central macular thickness (CMT) and improvement in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and complications, if any, were noted. All patients were followed up for more than 9 months. Resolution of the macular retinoschisis was seen in all nine eyes on SD-OCT. At 36 weeks, there was a significant improvement in mean BCVA from the preoperative BCVA (P = 0.0089) along with a reduction in the CMT from 569.77 ± 263.19 to 166.0 ± 43.91 um (P = 0.0039). None of the eyes showed worsening of BCVA or development of full-thickness macular hole in the intraoperative or follow-up period. PPV with I-OCT-guided cs-ILM peeling helps in complete removal of traction, resolution of retinoschisis and good functional recovery with low intraoperative and postoperative complications.

  5. Determination of genetic polymorphism in Guney Karaman local Turkish sheep breed by using STR markers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Karslı, Taki; Balcıoǧlu, Murat Soner

    2017-04-01

    The objective of this study was to assess genetic diversity of Güney Karaman Turkish local sheep breed. A total of 29 samples were genotyped by using 14 STR markers. All markers were polymorphic. The number of alleles in Güney Karaman sheep breed ranged from 3 to 11 per locus, with a mean of 7.42. The average observed and expected heterozygosity was 0.659 and 0.794, respectively. Mean inbreeding coefficient (Fis) value was found 0.175. The PIC values ranged from 0.569 to 0.860 with a mean of 0.743. The findings of this research demonstrate at moderate level gene diversity and heterozygosity with lower inbreeding in Güney Karaman sheep breed.

  6. Evaluations of Corneas in Eyes with Isolated Iris Coloboma.

    PubMed

    Karatepe Haşhaş, Arzu Seyhan; Arifoğlu, Hasan Basri; Yüce, Yudum; Duru, Necati; Ulusoy, Döndü Melek; Zararsız, Gökmen

    2017-01-01

    We aimed to evaluate the differences in the corneas of eyes with isolated iris coloboma. This study was designed as a prospective study. Among patients who applied to our hospital within the last 3-year period, those with isolated iris coloboma in one eye and a completely normal contralateral eye were included in the study. In addition to a complete ophthalmologic examination, all patients were scanned by Pentacam Scheimpflug camera in the dark, and a corneal endothelium cell count was taken using a Topcon Specular Microscope. Data entered using SPSS software were then evaluated by paired t-test; p < 0.05 value was considered statistically significant. Nine patients, seven men and two women, with a mean age of 35.77 ± 22.50 (range 8-60) years, were included in the study. In comparison to normal eyes, the colobomatous eyes were statistically found to have lower keratometry values in diopters (43.82 ± 2.17, 44.46 ± 1.86; p = 0.040), a greater negative asphericity (Q value) (-0.38 ± 0.07, -0.22 ± 0.20; p = 0.042), increased corneal thickness (569.78 ± 25.42, 537.33 ± 27.36; p < 0.001), decreased anterior chamber depth (2.50 ± 0.32, 2.81 ± 0.50; p = 0.005), a shallower angle (30.51 ± 10.68, 35.29 ± 9.99; p = 0.057), higher best-fit sphere (BFS) values of the anterior and posterior corneal surfaces (7.88 ± 0.39, 7.67 ± 0.37; p = 0.001; 6.40 ± 0.26, 6.23 ± 0.19; p = 0.006), larger pupil diameter (3.48 ± 0.49, 2.80 ± 0.34; p = 0.001), smaller horizontal corneal diameter (HCD) (11.06 ± 0.42; 11.26 ± 0.45; p = 0.009), and higher value of endothelial cell density (ECD) (3161 ± 431; 2923 ± 590; p = 0.031). We have determined that a number of factors such as keratometry values, particularly of the corneal endothelium, are different from those of normal eyes. These differences should be taken into account in the follow-up and treatment of eyes with iris coloboma.

  7. Agreement between PRE2DUP register data modeling method and comprehensive drug use interview among older persons

    PubMed Central

    Taipale, Heidi; Tanskanen, Antti; Koponen, Marjaana; Tolppanen, Anna-Maija; Tiihonen, Jari; Hartikainen, Sirpa

    2016-01-01

    Background PRE2DUP is a modeling method that generates drug use periods (ie, when drug use started and ended) from drug purchases recorded in dispensing-based register data. It is based on the evaluation of personal drug purchasing patterns and considers hospital stays, possible stockpiling of drugs, and package information. Objective The objective of this study was to investigate person-level agreement between self-reported drug use in the interview and drug use modeled from dispensing data with PRE2DUP method for various drug classes used by older persons. Methods Self-reported drug use was assessed from the GeMS Study including a random sample of persons aged ≥75 years from the city of Kuopio, Finland, in 2006. Drug purchases recorded in the Prescription register data of these persons were modeled to determine drug use periods with PRE2DUP modeling method. Agreement between self-reported drug use on the interview date and drug use calculated from register-based data was compared in order to find the frequently used drugs and drug classes, which was evaluated by Cohen’s kappa. Kappa values 0.61–0.80 were considered to represent good and 0.81–1.00 as very good agreement. Results Among 569 participants with mean age of 82 years, the agreement between interview and register data was very good for 75% and very good or good for 93% of the studied drugs or drug classes. Good or very good agreement was observed for drugs that are typically used on regular bases, whereas “as needed” drugs represented poorer results. Conclusion PRE2DUP modeling method validly describes regular drug use among older persons. For most of drug classes investigated, PRE2DUP-modeled register data described drug use as well as interview-based data which are more time-consuming to collect. Further studies should be conducted by comparing it with other methods and in different drug user populations. PMID:27785101

  8. Cognitive Assessment of Patients With Alzheimer's Disease by Telemedicine: Pilot Study

    PubMed Central

    Carotenuto, Anna; Rea, Raffaele; Ricci, Giovanna; Fasanaro, Angiola Maria; Amenta, Francesco

    2018-01-01

    Background Approximately 46.8 million people are living with dementia worldwide and their number will grow in the next years. Any potential treatment should be administered as early as possible because it is important to provide an early cognitive assessment and to regularly monitor the mental function of patients. Information and communication technologies can be helpful to reach and follow patients without displacing them, but there may be doubts about the reliability of cognitive tests performed by telemedicine. Objective The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability of the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog) tests administered in hospital by videoconference to patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. Methods The tests were administered to 28 Alzheimer's disease outpatients (8 male, mean age 73.88, SD 7.45 years; 20 female mean age 76.00, SD 5.40 years) recruited and followed in the Alzheimer’s Unit of the A Cardarelli National Hospital (Naples, Italy) at baseline and after 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of observation. Patients were evaluated first face-to-face by a psychologist and then, after 2 weeks, by another psychologist via videoconference in hospital. Results This study showed no differences in the MMSE and ADAS-cog scores when the tests were administered face-to-face or by videoconference, except in patients with more pronounced cognitive deficits (MMSE<17), in which the assessment via videoconference overestimated the cognitive impairment (face to face, MMSE mean 13.9, SD 4.9 and ADAS-cog mean 9.0, SD 3.8; videoconference, MMSE mean 42.8, SD 12.5 and ADAS-cog mean 56.9, SD 5.5). Conclusions We found that videoconferencing is a reliable approach to document cognitive stability or decline, and to measure treatment effects in patients with mild to moderate dementia. A more extended study is needed to confirm these results. PMID:29752254

  9. Identity Processes and Parent-Child and Sibling Relationships in Adolescence: A Five-Wave Multi-Informant Longitudinal Study.

    PubMed

    Crocetti, Elisabetta; Branje, Susan; Rubini, Monica; Koot, Hans M; Meeus, Wim

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to examine reciprocal associations between identity processes (commitment, in-depth exploration, and reconsideration of commitment) and dimensions (support, negative interaction, and power) of maternal, paternal, and sibling relationships. A total of 497 Dutch families including 14-years-old adolescents (56.9% males), their fathers, mothers, and siblings, for a total of 1,988 respondents, participated in a five-wave longitudinal study. Cross-lagged analyses indicated that commitment and in-depth exploration predicted improvements in family relationships (unidirectional effects), whereas reconsideration of commitment was predicted by low levels of maternal support and worsened the quality of the paternal relationship (reciprocal effects). These results were not moderated by adolescents' gender and sibling characteristics. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed. © 2016 The Authors. Child Development © 2016 Society for Research in Child Development, Inc.

  10. Chlorogenic acid stabilized nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC) of atorvastatin: formulation, design and in vivo evaluation.

    PubMed

    Khan, Saba; Baboota, Sanjula; Ali, Javed; Narang, R S; Narang, Jasjeet K

    2016-01-01

    The present work was aimed at developing an optimized oral nanostructured lipid carrier (NLC) formulation of poorly soluble atorvastatin Ca (AT Ca) and assessing its in vitro release, oral bioavailability and pharmacodynamic activity. In this study, chlorogenic acid, a novel excipient having synergistic cholesterol lowering activity was utilized and explored in NLC formulation development. The drug-loaded NLC formulations were prepared using a high pressure homogenization technique and optimized by the Box-Behnken statistical design using the Design-Expert software. The optimized NLC formulation was composed of oleic acid and stearic acid as lipid phase (0.9% w/v), poloxamer 188 as surfactant (1% w/v) and chlorogenic acid (0.05% w/v). The mean particle size, polydispersity index (PDI) and % drug entrapment efficiency of optimized NLC were 203.56 ± 8.57 nm, 0.27 ± 0.028 and 83.66 ± 5.69, respectively. In vitro release studies showed that the release of drug from optimized NLC formulations were markedly enhanced as compared to solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and drug suspension. The plasma concentration time profile of AT Ca in rats showed 3.08- and 4.89-fold increase in relative bioavailability of developed NLC with respect to marketed preparation (ATORVA® tablet) and drug suspension, respectively. Pharmacodynamic study suggested highly significant (**p < 0.01) reduction in the cholesterol and triglyceride values by NLC in comparison with ATORVA® tablet. Therefore, the results of in vivo studies demonstrated promising prospects for successful oral delivery of AT Ca by means of its chlorogenic acid integrated NLC.

  11. The RTEL1 rs6010620 polymorphism and glioma risk: a meta-analysis based on 12 case-control studies.

    PubMed

    Du, Shu-Li; Geng, Ting-Ting; Feng, Tian; Chen, Cui-Ping; Jin, Tian-Bo; Chen, Chao

    2014-01-01

    The association between the RTEL1 rs6010620 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and glioma risk has been extensively studied. However, the results remain inconclusive. To further examine this association, we performed a meta-analysis. A computerized search of the PubMed and Embase databases for publications regarding the RTEL1 rs6010620 polymorphism and glioma cancer risk was performed. Genotype data were analyzed in a meta-analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated to assess the association. Sensitivity analyses, tests of heterogeneity, cumulative meta-analyses, and assessments of bias were performed in our meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis confirmed that risk with allele A is lower than with allele G for glioma. The A allele of rs6010620 in RTEL1 decreased the risk of developing glioma in the 12 case-control studies for all genetic models: the allele model (OR=0.752, 95%CI: 0.715-0.792), the dominant model (OR=0.729, 95%CI: 0.685-0.776), the recessive model (OR=0.647, 95%CI: 0.569-0.734), the homozygote comparison (OR=0.528, 95%CI: 0.456-0.612), and the heterozygote comparison (OR=0.761, 95%CI: 0.713-0.812). In all genetic models, the association between the RTEL1 rs6010620 polymorphism and glioma risk was significant. This meta-analysis suggests that the RTEL1 rs6010620 polymorphism may be a risk factor for glioma. Further functional studies evaluating this polymorphism and glioma risk are warranted.

  12. Laparoscopic Repair for Perforated Peptic Ulcer: A Retrospective Study.

    PubMed

    Vărcuş, Flore; Beuran, Mircea; Lica, Ioan; Turculet, Claudiu; Cotarlet, Adrian Valentin; Georgescu, Stefan; Vintila, Dan; Sabău, Dan; Sabau, Alexandru; Ciuce, Constantin; Bintintan, Vasile; Georgescu, Eugen; Popescu, Razvan; Tarta, Cristi; Surlin, Valeriu

    2017-04-01

    The incidence of patients presenting with perforated peptic ulcers (PPU) has decreased during the last decades. At the same time, a laparoscopic approach to this condition has been adopted by increased number of surgeons. The aim of this study was to evaluate the early postoperative results of the laparoscopic treatment of perforated peptic ulcer performed in eight Romanian surgical centers with extensive experience in laparoscopic surgery. Between 2009 and 2013, 297 patients with perforated peptic ulcer were operated in the eight centers participating in this retrospective study. The patients' charts were reviewed for demographics, surgical procedure, complications and short-term outcomes. Boey score of 0 was found in 122 patients (41.1%), Boey 1 in 169 (56.9%), Boey 3 in 6 (2.0%). For 145 (48.8%) patients, primary suture repair was performed, in 146 (49.2%) primary suture repair with omentopexy. There were 6 (2.0%) conversions to open surgery. The operative time was between 25 and 120 min, with a mean of 68 min. Two (0.7%) deaths were noted. Mean hospital stay was 5.5 days, ranges 3-25 days. Postoperative complications included: 7 (2.4%) superficial surgical site infections, 5 (1.6%) cardiovascular, 3 (1.0%) pulmonary, 2 (0.7%) duodenal leakages, 3 (1.0%) deep space infections and 1 (0.3%) upper digestive hemorrhage. This study shows that the laparoscopic approach for PPU is feasible; the procedure is safe, with no increased risk of duodenal fistulae or residual intraperitoneal abscesses. We now consider the laparoscopic approach for PPU as the "gold standard" in patients with Boey score 0 or 1.

  13. Utilizing harmonization and common surveillance methods to consolidate 4 cohorts: the Western Alaska Tribal Collaborative for Health (WATCH) study

    PubMed Central

    Koller, Kathryn R.; Wolfe, Abbie W.; Metzger, Jesse S.; Austin, Melissa A.; Hopkins, Scarlett E.; Kaufmann, Cristiane; Jolly, Stacey E.; Ebbesson, Sven O.E.; Umans, Jason G.; Howard, Barbara V.; Boyer, Bert B.

    2013-01-01

    Background According to health status reports, chronic disease prevalence appears to be rising in western Alaska Native (AN) people, and accurate population-based data are needed. Four cohort studies of western AN people were conducted in the Norton Sound and Yukon-Kuskokwim regions, but none have been large enough to allow reliable estimates of rates of chronic diseases and evaluate their risk factors. Objective In this article, the methods used to combine 4 major cohort studies of rural western AN people are described and the benefits and challenges encountered in combining data and standardizing surveillance methods for these studies are discussed. Design Tribal permission was obtained for each cohort study and the consolidated study. Data from baseline exams were directly combined or harmonized into new variables. Common surveillance methods were developed and implemented to identify incidence and risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD) events and type 2 diabetes. Results A cohort of 4,569 western AN participants (2,116 men and 2,453 women), aged 18–95 years, was established to study CVD and diabetes prevalence. Prospective surveillance data over an average 6.7-year follow-up can now be used to study CVD and diabetes incidence and associated risk factors in a subset of 2,754 western AN participants (1,218 men and 1,536 women) who consented to initial surveillance. Conclusions The combined cohort provides statistical power to examine incidence rates and risk factors for CVD and diabetes and allows for analyses by geographic region. The data can be used to develop intervention programmes in these populations and others. PMID:23671836

  14. Topically Applied AaeIAP1 Double-Stranded RNA Kills Female Adults of Aedes aegypti

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2008-05-01

    L. Barreto, and E. Mota. 2005. Dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever epidemics in Brazil : what research is needed based on trends, sur- veillance...disease in the world andcancause anundifferentiated fever , dengue fever , dengue hemorrhagic fever , or dengue shock syndrome (Malavige et al. 2004...Para State, Amazon region of Brazil , 1998Ð1999: entomologic and epidemiologic Þnd- ings. Emerg. Infect. Dis. 7: 565Ð569. Vaux, D. L., G. Haecker, and A

  15. 40 CFR 421.313 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

    2012-07-01

    ... tungsten scrap washed Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700....583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600 301.400 Cobalt 14.194 6.223 Tungsten 17.900 7.972...

  16. 40 CFR 421.313 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

    2010-07-01

    ... tungsten scrap washed Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700....583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600 301.400 Cobalt 14.194 6.223 Tungsten 17.900 7.972...

  17. 40 CFR 421.313 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

    2013-07-01

    ... tungsten scrap washed Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700....583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600 301.400 Cobalt 14.194 6.223 Tungsten 17.900 7.972...

  18. 40 CFR 421.313 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

    2011-07-01

    ... tungsten scrap washed Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700....583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600 301.400 Cobalt 14.194 6.223 Tungsten 17.900 7.972...

  19. 40 CFR 421.313 - Effluent limitations guidelines representing the degree of effluent reduction attainable by the...

    Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

    2014-07-01

    ... tungsten scrap washed Copper 0.250 0.119 Nickel 0.107 0.072 Ammonia (as N) 25.990 11.430 Cobalt 0.538 0.236... per million pounds) of tungsten produced Copper 3.291 1.569 Nickel 1.414 0.951 Ammonia (as N) 342.700....583 3.137 Nickel 2.829 1.903 Ammonia (as N) 685.600 301.400 Cobalt 14.194 6.223 Tungsten 17.900 7.972...

  20. Lectures in Complex Systems, (1992). Volume 5

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-05-01

    Lattice Gas Methods for Partial Differential Equations, 1989 V P. W. Anderson, K. Arrow, The Economy as an Evolving Complex System, D. Pines 1988 VI C...to Improve EEG Classification and to Explore GA Parametrization Cathleen Barczys, Laura Bloom, and Leslie Kay 569 Symbiosis in Society and Monopoly in...Appeal of Evolution 1.2 Elements of Genetic Algorithms 1.3 A Simple GA 1.4 Overview of Some Applications of Genetic Algorithms 1.5 A Brief Example

  1. A High Frequency Radio Technique for Measuring Plasma Drifts in the Ionosphere.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1983-07-01

    MN’-’,oor-no o o o 000 0 0 0 0 00 r- 00 00000 0 0 0 0 0 r- n 0 0 0 0,, 0 , onM.... M o 0 0000 o00 nOWo ao,°on ,00- 0000 . • ° • AD-R149 569 A HIGH...Technique of Com- plex Amplitude Multifrequency Scanning for Ionospheric Spatial Doppler Measurements, Final Report AFCRL-72-0468, LTIRF- 347 /IP

  2. A Cross-Sectional Comparison of Army Advertising Attributes

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1990-11-01

    ARMY ADVERTISING ATTRIBUTES EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Research Requirement: In order to assess the impact of the Army’s advertising strategy and campaigns...Sample sizes varied from 4,875 to 4,926 for the NRS and from 3,569 to 3,602 for ACOMS. Improvement type themes. This advertising strategy would make...and college. I recommend that the Army focus advertising strategy on the Army as a positive step between high school and college in addition to work

  3. Medical Surveillance Monthly Report (MSMR). Volume 21, Number 01, January 2014

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2014-01-01

    31. Foley DH, Klein TA, Lee IY, et al. Mosquito species composition and Plasmodium vivax infection rates from Baengnyeong-do (Island), Republic of...and the circumsporozoite proteins in the saliva of Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes. Parasitol Res. 1992; 78:563-569. 33. Lee WJ, Klein TA, Kim HC, et...distribution of dengue includes Latin America, the Carib- bean , Africa, Asia, and the Pacifi c Islands. Dengue rarely occurs in the continental U.S., but

  4. Nonlinear Phenomena in Electromagnetic and Acoustic Wave Propagation.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1984-04-01

    W~ . f. W. ~.. ~ . . W-71 40. R. Burridge Poroelasticity equations derived from J. B. Keller microstructure Pub: J. Acoust . Soc. Am., 70, 1140...Pub: Coin. Pure Appl. Math., 36, 547-569, 1983. 91. J. B. Keller Asymptotic analysis of a viscous Cochlear model 1. C. ou Sub: J. Acoust . Soc. Am. 92...34RD-R49 螜 NONLINEAR PHENOMENA IN ELECTROMAGNETIC AND ACOUSTIC /1 NAVE PROPAORTION(U) STANFORD UNIV CA DEPT OF MATHEMATICS J B KELLER APR 84 ARO

  5. Homelessness and Drug Abuse among Young Men Who Have Sex with Men in New York City: A Preliminary Epidemiological Trajectory

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Clatts, Michael C.; Goldsamt, Lloyd; Yi, Huso; Gwadz, Marya Viorst

    2005-01-01

    The objective of this paper is to profile the role of homelessness in drug and sexual risk in a population of young men who have sex with men (YMSM). Data are from a cross-sectional survey collected between 2000 and 2001 in New York City (N=569). With the goal of examining the import of homelessness in increased risk for the onset of drug and…

  6. Technology for large space systems: A bibliography with indexes (supplement 18)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1988-01-01

    This bibliography lists 569 reports, articles, and other documents introduced into the NASA scientific and technical information system between July 1,1987 and December 31, 1987. Its purpose is to provide helpful information to the researcher, manager, and designer in technology development and mission design according to system, interactive analysis and design, structural and thermal analysis and design, structural concepts and control systems, electronics, advanced materials, assembly concepts, propulsion, and solar power satellite systems.

  7. Signal-dependent export of GABA transporter 1 from the ER-Golgi intermediate compartment is specified by a C-terminal motif

    PubMed Central

    Farhan, Hesso; Reiterer, Veronika; Kriz, Alexander; Hauri, Hans-Peter; Pavelka, Margit; Sitte, Harald H.; Freissmuth, Michael

    2015-01-01

    Summary The C-terminus of GABA transporter 1 (GAT1, SLC6A1) is required for trafficking of the protein through the secretory pathway to reach its final destination, i.e. the rim of the synaptic specialization. We identified a motif of three hydrophobic residues (569VMI571) that was required for export of GAT1 from the ER-Golgi intermediate compartment (ERGIC). This conclusion was based on the following observations: (i) GAT1-SSS, the mutant in which 569VMI571 was replaced by serine residues, was exported from the ER in a COPII-dependent manner but accumulated in punctate structures and failed to reach the Golgi; (ii) under appropriate conditions (imposing a block at 15°C, disruption of COPI), these structures also contained ERGIC53; (iii) the punctae were part of a dynamic compartment, because it was accessible to a second anterograde cargo [the temperature-sensitive variant of vesicular stomatitis virus G protein (VSV-G)] and because GAT1-SSS could be retrieved from the punctate structures by addition of a KKxx-based retrieval motif, which supported retrograde transport to the ER. To the best of our knowledge, the VMI-motif of GAT1 provides the first example of a cargo-based motif that specifies export from the ERGIC. PMID:18285449

  8. Software-assisted small bowel motility analysis using free-breathing MRI: feasibility study.

    PubMed

    Bickelhaupt, Sebastian; Froehlich, Johannes M; Cattin, Roger; Raible, Stephan; Bouquet, Hanspeter; Bill, Urs; Patak, Michael A

    2014-01-01

    To validate a software prototype allowing for small bowel motility analysis in free breathing by comparing it to manual measurements. In all, 25 patients (15 male, 10 female; mean age 39 years) were included in this Institutional Review Board-approved, retrospective study. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed on a 1.5T system after standardized preparation acquiring motility sequences in free breathing over 69-84 seconds. Small bowel motility was analyzed manually and with the software. Functional parameters, measurement time, and reproducibility were compared using the coefficient of variance and paired Student's t-test. Correlation was analyzed using Pearson's correlation coefficient and linear regression. The 25 segments were analyzed twice both by hand and using the software with automatic breathing correction. All assessed parameters significantly correlated between the methods (P < 0.01), but the scattering of repeated measurements was significantly (P < 0.01) lower using the software (3.90%, standard deviation [SD] ± 5.69) than manual examinations (9.77%, SD ± 11.08). The time needed was significantly less (P < 0.001) with the software (4.52 minutes, SD ± 1.58) compared to manual measurement, lasting 17.48 minutes for manual (SD ± 1.75 minutes). The use of the software proves reliable and faster small bowel motility measurements in free-breathing MRI compared to manual analyses. The new technique allows for analyses of prolonged sequences acquired in free breathing, improving the informative value of the examinations by amplifying the evaluable data. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  9. Thiolated silicone oil: Synthesis, gelling and mucoadhesive properties

    PubMed Central

    Partenhauser, Alexandra; Laffleur, Flavia; Rohrer, Julia; Bernkop-Schnürch, Andreas

    2015-01-01

    The aim of this study was the development of novel thiolated silicone oils and their evaluation with regard to gelling and mucoadhesive properties. A thiol coupling of 220 ± 14 and 127 ± 33 μmol/g polymer for 3-mercaptopropionic acid (MPA)- and cysteine-coupled silicone oil was determined, respectively. The dynamic viscosity of MPA–silicone raised significantly (p < 0.000001) after oxidation with iodine to a maximum of 523-fold within 1 h. During tensile studies, MPA–silicone showed both the highest results for total work of adhesion (TWA) and maximum detachment force (MDF) with a 3.8- and 3.4-fold increase, respectively, compared to the control. As far as the residence time on small intestinal mucosa is concerned, both silicone conjugates were detectable in almost the same quantities for up to 8 h with 56.9 ± 3.3 and 47.8 ± 8.9% of the initially applied conjugated silicone oil. Thiolated silicone oils can be regarded superior in comparison to commonly used silicone oils due to a prolonged retention time in the small intestine as site of action. Gelling and mucoadhesive features are advantageous for antiflatulent as well as mucoprotective biomaterials. Thus, these novel thiomers seem promising for an upgrade of currently available products for the treatment of dyspepsia, reflux oesophagitis and even inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. PMID:25660565

  10. Psychometric validation of the POSIT for screening alcohol and other drugs risk consumption among adolescents.

    PubMed

    Araujo, Manuel; Golpe, Sandra; Braña, Teresa; Varela, Jesús; Rial, Antonio

    2018-04-15

    Early detection of alcohol and drug abuse among adolescents is decisive not only for rapid referral and intervention in cases of risk, but also as an indicator for use in the evaluation of prevention programs and public policies to reduce consumption. One of the most widely-used screening instruments in the world is the Problem Oriented Screening Instrument for Teenagers (POSIT) (Rahdert, 1991), whose substance use and abuse subscale (POSITUAS) is a brief tool of enormous applied potential. However, there is still no empirical validation study that would ensure its good psychometric performance in Spain. The aim of this paper is to analyse the psychometric properties of POSITUAS among Spanish adolescents. For this purpose, 569 students aged between 12 and 18 years (M = 14.71; SD = 1.79) were personally interviewed. The study sample was selected through two-stage sampling. The results obtained, using the Adolescent Diagnostic Interview (Winters & Henly, 1993) as the gold criterion, allow us to inform that the Spanish version of the POSITUAS has excellent psychometric behaviour, both at the level of internal consistency (a  = .82) as well as regards sensitivity (94.3%) and specificity (83.9%), with an area under the ROC curve of .953. Also, the realisation of a Confirmatory Factor Analysis allows for verifying the one-dimensional character of the scale. As a result, POSITUAS is made available to researchers and professionals in the field of addictive behaviours for use with a minimum of psychometric guarantees.

  11. First results from the new double velocity-double energy spectrometer VERDI

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Frégeau, M. O.; Oberstedt, S.; Gamboni, Th.; Geerts, W.; Hambsch, F.-J.; Vidali, M.

    2016-05-01

    The VERDI spectrometer (VElocity foR Direct mass Identification) is a two arm time-of-flight spectrometer built at the European Commission Joint Research Centre IRMM. It determines fragment masses and kinetic energy distributions produced in nuclear fission by means of the double velocity and double energy (2v-2E) method. The simultaneous measurement of pre- and post neutron fragment characteristics allows studying the share of excitation energy between the two fragments. In particular, the evolution of fission modes and neutron multiplicity may be studied as a function of the available excitation energy. Both topics are of great importance for the development of models used in the evaluation of nuclear data, and also have important implications for the fundamental understanding of the fission process. The development of VERDI focus on maximum geometrical efficiency while striving for highest possible mass resolution. An innovative transmission start detector, using electrons ejected from the target itself, was developed. Stop signal and kinetic energy of both fragments are provided by two arrays of silicon detectors. The present design provides about 200 times higher geometrical efficiency than that of the famous COSI FAN TUTTE spectrometer [Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research 219 (1984) 569]. We report about a commissioning experiment of the VERDI spectrometer, present first results from a 2v-2E measurement of 252Cf spontaneous fission and discuss the potential of this instrument to contribute to the investigation prompt fission neutron characteristics as a function of fission fragment properties.

  12. Phytoremediation of water contaminated with mercury using Typha domingensis in constructed wetland.

    PubMed

    Gomes, Marcos Vinícius Teles; de Souza, Roberto Rodrigues; Teles, Vinícius Silva; Araújo Mendes, Érica

    2014-05-01

    The presence of mercury in aquatic environments is a matter of concern by part of the scientific community and public health organizations worldwide due to its persistence and toxicity. The phytoremediation consists in a group of technologies based on the use of natural occurrence or genetically modified plants, in order to reduce, remove, break or immobilize pollutants and working as an alternative to replace conventional effluent treatment methods due to its sustainability - low cost of maintenance and energy. The current study provides information about a pilot scale experiment designed to evaluate the potential of the aquatic macrophyte Typha domingensis in a constructed wetland with subsurface flow for phytoremediation of water contaminated with mercury. The efficiency in the reduction of the heavy metal concentration in wetlands, and the relative metal sorption by the T. domingensis, varied according to the exposure time. The continued rate of the system was 7 times higher than the control line, demonstrating a better performance and reducing 99.6±0.4% of the mercury presents in the water contaminated. When compared to other species, the results showed that the T. domingensis demonstrated a higher mercury accumulation (273.3515±0.7234 mg kg(-1)) when the transfer coefficient was 7750.9864±569.5468 L kg(-1). The results in this present study shows the great potential of the aquatic macrophyte T. domingensis in constructed wetlands for phytoremediation of water contaminated with mercury. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  13. [Home hospital for advanced stage cancer patients: costs and benefits].

    PubMed

    Tanneberger, S; Pannuti, F; Mirri, R; Panetta, A; Mariano, P; Giordani, S; Strocchni, E; Farabegoli, G

    1997-03-01

    15,290 patients have been treated in the Bologna home hospital (BHH) until June 30, 1996. The average daily costs in BHH were estimated as 118789 Liras (ranging from 108 569-129027 Lire depending on the nursing category). Care intensity and patient's quality of life in the BHH are high. 98% of patients were content with the setting in which they were nursed. A questionnaire on the degree of satisfaction with the care was completed by 134 BHH patients and 102 patients of Division Oncologia Medica. Azienda Ospedaliera Sant, Orsola Malpighi, Bologna. Satisfaction with respect to sleeping, meals and family communications was expressed more often by BHH patients. Less patients of the BHH evaluated "quality of life" reduced or bad (51% vs. 67%) or requested a transfer to the alternative setting (03% vs. 47%). Advocating step by step introduction of home care, quality of life aspects have priority. Certainly, home care deserves greatest attention providing care during the life with cancer. However the final decision about the settings of nursing has to be made by the patients themselves in accordance with his understanding of quality of life.

  14. Detecting the optic disc boundary in digital fundus images using morphological, edge detection, and feature extraction techniques.

    PubMed

    Aquino, Arturo; Gegundez-Arias, Manuel Emilio; Marin, Diego

    2010-11-01

    Optic disc (OD) detection is an important step in developing systems for automated diagnosis of various serious ophthalmic pathologies. This paper presents a new template-based methodology for segmenting the OD from digital retinal images. This methodology uses morphological and edge detection techniques followed by the Circular Hough Transform to obtain a circular OD boundary approximation. It requires a pixel located within the OD as initial information. For this purpose, a location methodology based on a voting-type algorithm is also proposed. The algorithms were evaluated on the 1200 images of the publicly available MESSIDOR database. The location procedure succeeded in 99% of cases, taking an average computational time of 1.67 s. with a standard deviation of 0.14 s. On the other hand, the segmentation algorithm rendered an average common area overlapping between automated segmentations and true OD regions of 86%. The average computational time was 5.69 s with a standard deviation of 0.54 s. Moreover, a discussion on advantages and disadvantages of the models more generally used for OD segmentation is also presented in this paper.

  15. The inter-observer agreement in the assessment of carotid plaque neovascularization by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography: The impact of plaque thickness.

    PubMed

    Chen, Jian; Zhang, Yan-Ming; Song, Ze-Zhou; Fu, Yan-Fei; Geng, Yu

    2018-04-10

    The interobserver agreement in the assessment of the grade of carotid plaque neovascularization by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography is poorly established. We examined 140 carotid plaques in 66 patients (all patients had bilateral plaques, and 8 patients had 2 plaques on one side). We performed conventional and contrast-enhanced ultrasonography to analyze the presence of carotid plaque neovascularization, which was graded by two independent observers whose interobserver agreement (κ) was evaluated according to the thickness of carotid plaque. For all carotid plaques, the mean κ was 0.689 (95% confidence interval 0.604-0.774). It was 0.689 (0.569-0.808), 0.637 (0.487-0.787), and 0.740 (0.585-0.896), respectively for carotid plaques with maximal thickness <2 mm, from 2 mm to 3 mm, and >3 mm. The interobserver agreement for assessing carotid plaque neovascularization by using contrast-enhanced ultrasonography is substantial and acceptable for research purposes, regardless of the maximal thickness of the plaque. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  16. Safety and efficacy of gadoteric acid in pediatric magnetic resonance imaging: overview of clinical trials and post-marketing studies.

    PubMed

    Balassy, Csilla; Roberts, Donna; Miller, Stephen F

    2015-11-01

    Gadoteric acid is a paramagnetic gadolinium macrocyclic contrast agent approved for use in MRI of cerebral and spinal lesions and for body imaging. To investigate the safety and efficacy of gadoteric acid in children by extensively reviewing clinical and post-marketing observational studies. Data were collected from 3,810 children (ages 3 days to 17 years) investigated in seven clinical trials of central nervous system (CNS) imaging (n = 141) and six post-marketing observational studies of CNS, musculoskeletal and whole-body MR imaging (n = 3,669). Of these, 3,569 children were 2-17 years of age and 241 were younger than 2 years. Gadoteric acid was generally administered at a dose of 0.1 mmol/kg. We evaluated image quality, lesion detection and border delineation, and the safety of gadoteric acid. We also reviewed post-marketing pharmacovigilance experience. Consistent with findings in adults, gadoteric acid was effective in children for improving image quality compared with T1-W unenhanced sequences, providing diagnostic improvement, and often influencing the therapeutic approach, resulting in treatment modifications. In studies assessing neurological tumors, gadoteric acid improved border delineation, internal morphology and contrast enhancement compared to unenhanced MR imaging. Gadoteric acid has a well-established safety profile. Among all studies, a total of 10 children experienced 20 adverse events, 7 of which were thought to be related to gadoteric acid. No serious adverse events were reported in any study. Post-marketing pharmacovigilance experience did not find any specific safety concern. Gadoteric acid was associated with improved lesion detection and delineation and is an effective and well-tolerated contrast agent for use in children.

  17. The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of posterior-only vertebral column resection (PVCR) for the treatment of angular and isolated congenital kyphosis.

    PubMed

    Wang, Shengru; Aikenmu, Kahaer; Zhang, Jianguo; Qiu, Guixing; Guo, Jianwei; Zhang, Yanbin; Weng, Xisheng

    2017-07-01

    The aim of this retrospective study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of posterior-only vertebral column resection (PVCR) for the treatment of angular and isolated congenital kyphosis. 24 patients with isolated angular congenital kyphosis treated by PVCR in our hospital were retrospectively studied. The patients' radiographs and hospital records were reviewed. Deformity in sagittal planes and global sagittal alignment were analyzed for correction and maintenance of the correction in preoperative, postoperative, and follow-up radiographs. The complications and related risk factors were analyzed. The average age was 13.9 (4-40) years. Three of them were revision surgeries. Two patients have intraspinal anomalies. The mean follow-up is 56.9 (26-129) months. The mean operation time was 293.1 (170-480) min. The averaged blood loss was 993.8 (250-3000) ml. The segmental kyphosis was 87.3° before surgery, 17.6° post surgery and 20.4° at the latest the follow-up. And the sagittal vertical axis was improved from 43.1 mm to 9.2 mm. Mean total score of SRS-22 was 89.3. Complications occurred in 4 patients, including 1 screw pullout due to pseudarthrosis, 1 proximal junctional kyphosis, 1 incomplete spinal cord injury and 1 root injuries. Posterior-only vertebral column resection is an ideal procedure for severe rigid congenital kyphosis. However, it is still a highly technical demanding procedure. Neurological compromises still remain the biggest challenges. Sufficient height of anterior reconstruction, avoidance sacrifice of bilateral roots in the same level in the thoracic spine, avoidance of the sagittal translation of the upper and lower vertebras, intra-operative neuromonitoring, and preoperative surgical release of diastematomyelia and tethered cord may help to improve the safety.

  18. Comet assay in gill cells of Prochilodus lineatus exposed in vivo to cypermethrin.

    PubMed

    Poletta, G L; Gigena, F; Loteste, A; Parma, M J; Kleinsorge, E C; Simoniello, M F

    2013-11-01

    Agricultural chemicals can induce genetic alterations on aquatic organisms that have been associated with effects on growth, reproduction and population dynamics. The evaluation of DNA damage in fish using the comet assay (CA) frequently involves the utilization of erythrocytes. However, epithelial gill cells (EGC) can be more sensitive, as they are constantly dividing and in direct contact with potentially stressing compounds from the aquatic environment. The aim of the present study was to evaluate (1) the sensitivity and suitability of epithelial gill cells of Prochilodus lineatus in response to different genotoxic agents through the application of the CA, (2) the induction of DNA damage in this cell population after in vivo exposure to cypermethrin. Baseline value of the CA damage index (DI) for EGC of juvenile P. lineatus was 144.68±5.69. Damage increased in a dose-dependent manner after in vitro exposure of EGC to methyl methanesulfonate (MMS) and H2O2, two known genotoxic agents. In vivo exposure of fish to cypermethrin induced a significant increase in DNA DI of EGC at 0.150μg/l (DI: 239.62±6.21) and 0.300μg/l (270.63±2.09) compared to control (150.25±4.38) but no effect was observed at 0.075μg/l (168.50±10.77). This study shows that EGC of this species are sensitive for the application of the CA, demonstrating DNA damage in response to alkylation (MMS), oxidative damage (H2O2), and to the insecticide cypermethryn. These data, together with our previous study on DNA damage induction on erythrocytes of this species, provides useful information for future work involving biomonitoring in regions where P. lineatus is naturally exposed to pesticides and other genotoxic agents. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  19. Morphological correlation between caloric tests and vestibular hydrops in Ménière's disease using intravenous Gd enhanced inner ear MRI.

    PubMed

    Choi, Ji Eun; Kim, Yi-Kyung; Cho, Young Sang; Lee, Kieun; Park, Hyun Woo; Yoon, Sung Hoon; Kim, Hyung-Jin; Chung, Won-Ho

    2017-01-01

    The purpose of this study was to prove the hypothesis that caloric response in Ménière's disease (MD) is reduced by hydropic expansion of the vestibular labyrinth, not by vestibular hypofunction, by evaluating the correlation morphologically using an intravenous Gadolinium (IV-Gd) inner ear MRI. In study I, the prevalence of abnormal video Head Impulse Test (vHIT) results among the patients with definite unilateral MD (n = 24) and vestibular neuritis (VN) (n = 22) were investigated. All patients showed abnormal canal paresis (CP) (> 26%) on caloric tests. The prevalence of abnormal vHIT in patients with abnormal CP was significantly lower in MD patients (12.5%) than that in VN patients (81.8%) (p < 0.001). In study II, morphological correlation between caloric tests and vestibular hydrops level was evaluated in unilateral MD patients (n = 16) who had normal vHIT results. Eleven patients (61%) had abnormal CP. After taking the images of IV-Gd inner ear MRI, the vestibular hydrops ratio (endolymph volume/total lymph volume = %VH) was measured. In addition, the relative vestibular hydrops ratio (%RVH = (%VHaffected ear-%VHunaffected ear) / (%VHaffected ear + %VHunaffected ear)) was calculated. Each ratio (%VH and %RVH) was compared with average peak slow phase velocity (PSPV) and CP, respectively. In the MD patients, %VH of the affected ear correlated significantly with mean PSPV on the same side (rs = -0.569, p = 0.024), while %RVH correlated significantly with CP (rs = 0.602, p = 0.014). In most MD patients (87.5%) compared to VN patients, vHIT results were normal even though the caloric function was reduced. In addition, the reduced caloric function with normal vHIT was related to the severity of the vestibular hydrops measured by the IV-Gd inner ear MRI. These findings concluded that the abnormal caloric tests with normal vHIT in MD indicated severe endolymphatic hydrops rather than vestibular hypofunction.

  20. The effect of preoperative serum triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels on the prognosis of breast cancer.

    PubMed

    Li, Xing; Tang, Hailin; Wang, Jin; Xie, Xinhua; Liu, Peng; Kong, Yanan; Ye, Feng; Shuang, Zeyu; Xie, Zeming; Xie, Xiaoming

    2017-04-01

    Although dyslipidemia has been documented to be associated with several types of cancer including breast cancer, it remains uncertainty the prognostic value of serum lipid in breast cancer. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the association between the preoperative plasma lipid profile and the prognostic of breast cancer patients. The levels of preoperative serum lipid profile (including cholesterol [CHO], Triglycerides [TG], high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol [HDL-C], low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol [LDL-C], apolipoprotein A-I [ApoAI], and apolipoprotein B [ApoB]) and the clinical data were retrospectively collected and reviewed in 1044 breast cancer patients undergoing operation. Kaplan-Meier method and the Cox proportional hazards regression model were used in analyzing the overall survival [OS] and disease-free survival [DFS]. Combining the receiver-operating characteristic and Kaplan-Meier analysis, we found that preoperative lower TG and HDL-C level were risk factors of breast cancer patients. In multivariate analyses, a decreased HDL-C level showed significant association with worse OS (HR: 0.528; 95% CI: 0.302-0.923; P = 0.025), whereas a decreased TG level showed significant association with worse DFS (HR: 0.569; 95% CI: 0.370-0.873; P = 0.010). Preoperative serum levels of TG and HDL-C may be independent factor to predict outcome in breast cancer patient. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Flavocoxid, an anti-inflammatory agent of botanical origin, does not affect coagulation or interact with anticoagulation therapies.

    PubMed

    Pillai, Lakshmi; Levy, Robert M; Yimam, Mesfin; Zhao, Yuan; Jia, Qi; Burnett, Bruce P

    2010-06-01

    Flavocoxid, a botanical, anti-inflammatory agent, nonspecifically inhibits the peroxidase activity of cyclooxygenase (COX-1 and COX-2) enzymes and 5-lipooxygenase (5-LOX). Due to the concomitant use of aspirin or warfarin in many osteoarthritis (OA) patients with increased cardiovascular risk, we felt it necessary to assess the anticoagulation properties of flavocoxid. Three different studies were used: 1) a mouse model to assess effects on bleeding times when combined with aspirin; 2) the effect on platelet function as evaluated by platelet aggregation and bleed times in healthy human subjects; and 3) the effect on international normalized ratio in previously warfarinized patients with OA. Flavocoxid at a human equivalent dose (HED) of 569 mg (within the standard human dosing range of 500 mg) produced no significant increases in bleeding time in mice. There was also no inhibition or synergistic increase in bleed times when flavocoxid was combined with aspirin (370 mg HED). Flavocoxid did not significantly inhibit thromboxane production or platelet aggregation, and did not increase bleeding times in healthy volunteers. Finally, flavocoxid did not inhibit or potentiate the anticoagulant effect of warfarin. These results suggest that flavocoxid does not affect the primary or extrinsic pathways of secondary hemostasis and, by not inhibiting the anticoagulation effects of aspirin, may have utility in cardiovascular patients with OA.

  2. PRELOAD AND TORQUE REMOVAL EVALUATION OF THREE DIFFERENT ABUTMENT SCREWS FOR SINGLE STANDING IMPLANT RESTORATIONS

    PubMed Central

    Stüker, Rafael Augusto; Teixeira, Eduardo Rolim; Beck, João Carlos Pinheiro; da Costa, Nilza Pereira

    2008-01-01

    Several authors still consider the mechanical problems of fracture and component loosening as the main causes of failure of implant-supported restorations. The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare the preload of three types of screw for transmucosal abutment attachment used in single implant-supported prosthesis through strain gauge and removal torque measurements. Three external hex fixtures were used, and each received a transmucosal abutment (Cera One®), which was fixed to the implant with its respective screw: Group A- gold screw, Group B- titanium screw and Group C- surface-treated titanium screw (Ti-Tite®). Ten screws of each type were attached applying a 30.07±0.28 Ncm torque force and maintained in position for 5 minutes. After this, the preload values were measured using strain gauges and a measurement cell. Gold screws presented higher preload values (131.72±8.98 N), followed by surface-treated titanium screws (97.78±4.68 N) and titanium screws (37.03±5.69 N). ANOVA (p<0.05) and Tukey's test (p<0.05) were applied. Statistically significant differences were found among the groups for both preload and removal torque values. In conclusion, gold screws may be indicated to achieve superior longevity of the abutment-implant connection and, consequently, prosthetic restoration due to greater preload values yielded. PMID:19089290

  3. Utility of PCR, Culture, and Antigen Detection Methods for Diagnosis of Legionellosis.

    PubMed

    Chen, Derrick J; Procop, Gary W; Vogel, Sherilynn; Yen-Lieberman, Belinda; Richter, Sandra S

    2015-11-01

    The goal of this retrospective study was to evaluate the performance of different diagnostic tests for Legionnaires' disease in a clinical setting where Legionella pneumophila PCR had been introduced. Electronic medical records at the Cleveland Clinic were searched for Legionella urinary antigen (UAG), culture, and PCR tests ordered from March 2010 through December 2013. For cases where two or more test methods were performed and at least one was positive, the medical record was reviewed for relevant clinical and epidemiologic factors. Excluding repeat testing on a given patient, 19,912 tests were ordered (12,569 UAG, 3,747 cultures, and 3,596 PCR) with 378 positive results. The positivity rate for each method was 0.4% for culture, 0.8% for PCR, and 2.7% for UAG. For 37 patients, at least two test methods were performed with at least one positive result: 10 (27%) cases were positive by all three methods, 16 (43%) were positive by two methods, and 11 (30%) were positive by one method only. For the 32 patients with medical records available, clinical presentation was consistent with proven or probable Legionella infection in 84% of the cases. For those cases, the sensitivities of culture, PCR, and UAG were 50%, 92%, and 96%, respectively. The specificities were 100% for culture and 99.9% for PCR and UAG. Copyright © 2015, American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

  4. Utility of PCR, Culture, and Antigen Detection Methods for Diagnosis of Legionellosis

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Derrick J.; Procop, Gary W.; Vogel, Sherilynn; Yen-Lieberman, Belinda

    2015-01-01

    The goal of this retrospective study was to evaluate the performance of different diagnostic tests for Legionnaires' disease in a clinical setting where Legionella pneumophila PCR had been introduced. Electronic medical records at the Cleveland Clinic were searched for Legionella urinary antigen (UAG), culture, and PCR tests ordered from March 2010 through December 2013. For cases where two or more test methods were performed and at least one was positive, the medical record was reviewed for relevant clinical and epidemiologic factors. Excluding repeat testing on a given patient, 19,912 tests were ordered (12,569 UAG, 3,747 cultures, and 3,596 PCR) with 378 positive results. The positivity rate for each method was 0.4% for culture, 0.8% for PCR, and 2.7% for UAG. For 37 patients, at least two test methods were performed with at least one positive result: 10 (27%) cases were positive by all three methods, 16 (43%) were positive by two methods, and 11 (30%) were positive by one method only. For the 32 patients with medical records available, clinical presentation was consistent with proven or probable Legionella infection in 84% of the cases. For those cases, the sensitivities of culture, PCR, and UAG were 50%, 92%, and 96%, respectively. The specificities were 100% for culture and 99.9% for PCR and UAG. PMID:26292304

  5. Comparative Effectiveness of STEMI Regionalization Strategies

    PubMed Central

    Concannon, Thomas W.; Kent, David M.; Normand, Sharon-Lise; Newhouse, Joseph P.; Griffith, John L.; Cohen, Joshua; Beshansky, Joni R.; Wong, John B.; Aversano, Thomas; Selker, Harry P.

    2010-01-01

    BACKGROUND Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is more effective on average than fibrinolytic therapy (FT) in the treatment of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Yet most U.S. hospitals are not equipped for PCI and FT is still widely used. This study evaluated the comparative effectiveness of STEMI regionalization strategies to increase the use of PCI against standard emergency transport and care. METHODS AND RESULTS We estimated incremental treatment costs and quality-adjusted life expectancies of 2,000 patients with STEMI who received PCI or FT in simulations of emergency care in a regional hospital system. To increase access to PCI across the system, we compared a base case strategy to 12 hospital-based strategies of building new PCI labs or extending the hours of existing labs, and one emergency medical services (EMS)-based strategy of transporting all patients with STEMI to existing PCI-capable hospitals. The base case resulted in 609 (569, 647) patients getting PCI. Hospital-based strategies increased the number of patients receiving PCI, the costs of care, and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) saved, and were cost effective under a variety of conditions. An EMS-based strategy of transporting every patient to an existing PCI facility was less costly and more effective than all hospital expansion options. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that new construction and staffing of PCI labs may not be warranted if an EMS strategy is both available and feasible. PMID:20664025

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

    Zissa, D.E.; Barnes, V.E.; Carmony, D.D.

    The elastic and topological p-barp cross sections have been measured at 48.9 GeV/c in the Fermilab proportional-wire-chamber--30-in.-bubble-chamber hybrid spectrometer. The elastic cross section is 7.81 +- 0.24 mb and the slope of the elastic differential cross section at t=0 is 13.4 +- 0.8 GeV/sup -2/. Further, the moments of the inelastic topological-cross-section distribution are =5.69 +- 0.03, /D=2.10 +- 0.02, and f/sup c/c/sub 2/=1.67 +- 0.12.

  7. Internet Search Engines: Copyright’s Fair Use in Reproduction and Public Display Rights

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2007-07-12

    asks, in other words, whether and to what extent the new work is transformative.” Campbell v. Acuff-Rose Music , Inc., 510 U.S. 569, 579 (1994). 10...purposes. It cited the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Sony Corp. v. Universal Studios, Inc.22 and Kelly, supra, as examples where copying of an...image may have been created originally to serve an entertainment , aesthetic, or informative function, a search engine transforms the image into a pointer

  8. Health Care Experiences Prior to Suicide and Self-inflicted Injury, Active Component, U.S. Armed Forces, 2001-2010

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-02-01

    health 23 1.2 896 4.5 164 4.8 General surgery 23 1.2 247 1.2 98 2.8 Internal medicine 22 1.1 569 2.9 110 3.2 Audiology 22 1.1 290 1.5 50 1.5...90 days 91-180 days 181-360 days 361-720 days combine diagnoses thought to be predic- tive of suicide (see article on page 7) and the results of

  9. Project CHECO Southeast Asia Report. Forward Airfields for Tactical Airlift in SEA

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1970-06-15

    publications, this is an authen- tic s-sment of the effectiveness of USAF airpower in PACOM. ef /o a , Major General, USAF I/ m i ii l UNCLASSIFIED...Australian Air Force (RAAF) crews were airborne 35,569 times in 1969, with cargo that ranged from troops to chickens, cement , rice, ammunition, cattle...Runway surfaces--clay, laterite , limestone, light steel matting (M8Al), or sod, depending on the aircraft involved-- were expected to sustain 700 traffic

  10. Snake Venom Components and Their Cross Reactivity: A Short Review

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1988-10-01

    RESEARCH ESTABLISHMENT SUFFIELD, RALSTON, ALBERTA WARNING ’The vae ofhis infort on is pw tt .jm to recognition of proprietar and patent riqht’. Canada" D ...cross- reactivity with other proteins, such as those in the venom from C. basiliscus, C. durissus dutrissus, C. d . terrificus, C. horridus horrichus, and...48 534-569, 1968. 33. Lind, P. and Eaker, D . Amino acid sequence of a lethal myotoxic phospholipase A2 from the venom of the common sea snake (Eh

  11. Bubble Memory Module.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-12-01

    I AD-A093 642 ROCKWELL INTERNATIONAL ANAHEIM CA AUOEISSTAE-T F/S V/2 I BU13LE MEMORY MODULE. (U) DEC 80 0 0 BOHNING. F J BECKER NASI -14174...Cde under Contract NASI -14174 Dist’m/o National Aeronautics and Space Administration Scientific and Technical Information BranchA 1980 J Approvod ior...9/ BUBBLE M MORY MODULE.(U) DEC 80 0 BHNING, F J BECKER NASI -14174 NCLASSIFIED CB-569/201 NASA-CR-3380 ML22-fllfllf ll l ff mmlmmmmm.l®fmmM EEmmEI

  12. Medical Surveillance Monthly Report (MSMR). Volume 19, Number 4, April 2012

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-04-01

    680 - 709) 1,978 Disorders of fl uid electrolyte and acid-base balance 242 32.3 Other cellulitis and abscess 1,442 72.9 Diabetes mellitus 225...30.0 Pilonidal cyst 164 8.3 Overweight, obesity and other hyperalimentation 60 8.0 Cellulitis and abscess of fi nger and toe 116 5.9 Nontoxic nodular...709) 204 Iron defi ciency anemias 39 35.5 Other cellulitis and abscess 116 56.9 Other and unspecifi ed anemias 19 17.3 Pilonidal cyst 18 8.8

  13. Hospitalizations Among Members of the Active Component, U.S. Armed Forces, 2011

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-04-01

    immunity (240 - 279) 749 Skin and subcutaneous tissue (680 - 709) 1,978 Disorders of fl uid electrolyte and acid-base balance 242 32.3 Other cellulitis ...and abscess 1,442 72.9 Diabetes mellitus 225 30.0 Pilonidal cyst 164 8.3 Overweight, obesity and other hyperalimentation 60 8.0 Cellulitis and...280 - 289) 110 Skin and subcutaneous tissue (680 - 709) 204 Iron defi ciency anemias 39 35.5 Other cellulitis and abscess 116 56.9 Other and

  14. Concussion in High School Sports: Overall Estimate of Occurrence Is Not Available, but Key State Laws and Nationwide Guidelines Address Injury Management. Testimony before the Committee on Education and Labor, House of Representatives. GAO-10-569T

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Kohn, Linda T.

    2010-01-01

    Participation in school sports can benefit children but also carries a risk of injury, including concussion. Concussion is a brain injury that can affect memory, speech, and muscle coordination and can cause permanent disability or death. Concussion can be especially serious for children, who are more likely than adults both to sustain a…

  15. Naval Ocean Research and Development Activity Journal Index for 1976 thru 1984,

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-03-01

    and Antibiotics. Venezuela Basin. Deep-Sea Research, v. 31, Botanica Marina, v. XXIV, p. 399-404. p. 403-414. Thompson, J. Dana (1978). Ocean Deserts...v. 29, n. 102, p. 286-295. Phytoplankton Extracellular Products. Botanica marina, v~. XXXVI, p. 375-381. Radl, C.J. and J.P. Welsh (1983). Inventory...Experiments tion and Antibiotics. Botanica Marina, v. XXIV, in the Indian River Estuary, Florida. Journal of p. 399-404. ?. Marine Research, v. 36, p, 569-593

  16. Computing Science and Statistics: Volume 24. Graphics and Visualization

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-03-20

    r, is set to 3.569, the population examples include: kneading ingredients into a bread eventually oscillates about 16 fixed values. However the dough ...34fun statistics". My goal is to offer leagues I said in jest "After all, regression analysis is you the equivalent of a fortune cookie which clearly is... cookie of the night reads: One problem that statisticians traditionally seem to "You have good friends who will come to your aid in have is that they

  17. A Goal Programming Model for the Siting of Multilevel EMS Systems.

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1980-03-01

    Management," unpublished Ph.D. thesis, University of Texas, Austin, Texas, 1971. -23- (11) Daskin , M. and E. Stern, " A Multiobjective Set Covering...GOAL PROGRAM4MING MODEL FOR THE SITING OF MULTILEVEL EMS SYSTE-ETC(U) UNM1AR 80 A CHARNES, J E STORBECK N000iA-75-C-569 WICLASSIFIED CCS-366 N...366 A GOAL PROGRAMMING MODEL FOR THE SITING OF MULTILEVEL EMS SYSTEMS by A . Charnes J. Storbeck March 1980 This project was partially supported by

  18. Additional danger of arsenic exposure through inhalation from burning of cow dung cakes laced with arsenic as a fuel in arsenic affected villages in Ganga-Meghna-Brahmaputra plain.

    PubMed

    Pal, Arup; Nayak, Bishwajit; Das, Bhaskar; Hossain, M Amir; Ahamed, Sad; Chakraborti, Dipankar

    2007-10-01

    In arsenic contaminated areas of the Ganga-Meghna-Brahmaputra (GMB) plain (area 569,749 sq. km; population over 500 million) where traditionally cow dung cake is used as a fuel in unventilated ovens for cooking purposes, people are simply exposed to 1859.2 ng arsenic per day through direct inhalation, of which 464.8 ng could be absorbed in respiratory tract.

  19. A Guide to Electrical Insulation Design in Aerospace Vehicles for a Broad Range of Environmental Parameter Space

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-03-01

    as an example with information from Llewellyn Jones (1939) [30] and from Meek (1978), pg. 233 [7]. Morokuma (1969) [31] varied the surface potential...breakdown in high pressure gases,” Phys. Rev. A, 21, 2069. 13. Dutton, J., Llewellyn Jones , F., and Palmer, R.W., (1961), Proc. Phys. Soc. 78, 569...breakdown and insulators in compressed gas,” IEE Proc. 128, 303. 30. Llewellyn Jones , F. (1939), Phil. Mag. 28, 192. 31. Morokuma, Y., Nakamura, Y., and

  20. Information perception, wishes, and satisfaction in ambulatory cancer patients under active treatment: patient-reported outcomes with QLQ-INFO25

    PubMed Central

    Pinto, Ana Catarina; Ferreira-Santos, Fernando; Lago, Lissandra Dal; de Azambuja, Evandro; Pimentel, Francisco Luís; Piccart-Gebhart, Martine; Razavi, Darius

    2014-01-01

    Background Information is vital to cancer patients. Physician–patient communication in oncology presents specific challenges. The aim of this study was to evaluate self-reported information of cancer patients in ambulatory care at a comprehensive cancer centre and examine its possible association with patients’ demographic and clinical characteristics. Patients and methods This study included adult patients with solid tumours undergoing chemotherapy at the Institute Jules Bordet’s Day Hospital over a ten-day period. EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-INFO25 questionnaires were administered. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. Results 101 (99%) fully completed the questionnaires. They were mostly Belgian (74.3%), female (78.2%), with a mean age of 56.9 ± 12.8 years. The most frequent tumour was breast cancer (58.4%). Patients were well-informed about the disease and treatments, but presented unmet information domains. The Jules Bordet patients desired more information on treatment side effects, long-term outcome, nutrition, and recurrence symptoms. Patients on clinical trials reported having received less information about their disease and less written information than patients outside clinical trials. Higher information levels were associated with higher quality of life (QoL) scores and higher patient satisfaction. Conclusion Patients were satisfied with the information they received and this correlated with higher QoL, but they still expressed unmet information wishes. Additional studies are required to investigate the quality of the information received by patients enrolled in clinical trials. PMID:24834120

  1. Is advanced neuroimaging for neuroradiologists? A systematic review of the scientific literature of the last decade.

    PubMed

    Cocozza, Sirio; Russo, Camilla; Pontillo, Giuseppe; Ugga, Lorenzo; Macera, Antonio; Cervo, Amedeo; De Liso, Maria; Di Paolo, Nilde; Ginocchio, Maria Isabella; Giordano, Flavio; Leone, Giuseppe; Rusconi, Giovanni; Stanzione, Arnaldo; Briganti, Francesco; Quarantelli, Mario; Caranci, Ferdinando; D'Amico, Alessandra; Elefante, Andrea; Tedeschi, Enrico; Brunetti, Arturo

    2016-12-01

    To evaluate if advanced neuroimaging research is mainly conducted by imaging specialists, we investigated the number of first authorships by radiologists and non-radiologist scientists in articles published in the field of advanced neuroimaging in the past 10 years. Articles in the field of advanced neuroimaging identified in this retrospective bibliometric analysis were divided in four groups, depending on the imaging technique used. For all included studies, educational background of the first authors was recorded (based on available online curriculum vitae) and classified in subgroups, depending on their specialty. Finally, journal impact factors were recorded and comparatively assessed among subgroups as a metric of research quality. A total number of 3831 articles were included in the study. Radiologists accounted as first authors for only 12.8 % of these publications, while 56.9 % of first authors were researchers without a medical degree. Mean impact factor (IF) of journals with non-MD researchers as first authors was significantly higher than the MD subgroup (p < 10 -20 ), while mean IF of journals with radiologists as first authors was significantly lower than articles authored by other MD specialists (p < 10 -11 ). The majority of the studies in the field of advanced neuroimaging in the last decade is conducted by professional figures other than radiologists, who account for less than the 13 % of the publications. Furthermore, the mean IF value of radiologists-authored articles was the lowest among all subgroups. These results, taken together, should question the radiology community about its future role in the development of advanced neuroimaging.

  2. CTLA-4 and MDR1 polymorphisms increase the risk for ulcerative colitis: A meta-analysis.

    PubMed

    Zhao, Jia-Jun; Wang, Di; Yao, Hui; Sun, Da-Wei; Li, Hong-Yu

    2015-09-14

    To evaluate the correlations between cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) and multi-drug resistance 1 (MDR1) genes polymorphisms with ulcerative colitis (UC) risk. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CBM databases, Springerlink, Wiley, EBSCO, Ovid, Wanfang database, VIP database, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Weipu Journal databases were exhaustively searched using combinations of keywords relating to CTLA-4, MDR1 and UC. The published studies were filtered using our stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria, the quality assessment for each eligible study was conducted using Critical Appraisal Skill Program and the resultant high-quality data from final selected studies were analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-analysis 2.0 (CMA 2.0) software. The correlations between SNPs of CTLA-4 gene, MDR1 gene and the risk of UC were evaluated by OR at 95%CI. Z test was carried out to evaluate the significance of overall effect values. Cochran's Q-statistic and I(2) tests were applied to quantify heterogeneity among studies. Funnel plots, classic fail-safe N and Egger's linear regression test were inspected for indication of publication bias. A total of 107 studies were initially retrieved and 12 studies were eventually selected for meta-analysis. These 12 case-control studies involved 1860 UC patients and 2663 healthy controls. Our major result revealed that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CTLA-4 gene rs3087243 G > A and rs231775 G > A may increase the risk of UC (rs3087243 G > A: allele model: OR = 1.365, 95%CI: 1.023-1.822, P = 0.035; dominant model: OR = 1.569, 95%CI: 1.269-1.940, P < 0.001; rs231775 G > A: allele model: OR = 1.583, 95%CI: = 1.306-1.918, P < 0.001; dominant model: OR = 1.805, 95%CI: 1.393-2.340, P < 0.001). In addition, based on our result, SNPs of MDR1 gene rs1045642 C > T might also confer a significant increases for the risk of UC (allele model: OR = 1.389, 95%CI: 1.214-1.590, P < 0.001; dominant model: OR = 1.518, 95%CI: 1.222-1.886, P < 0.001). CTLA-4 gene rs3087243 G > A and rs231775 G > A, and MDR1 gene rs1045642 C > T might confer an increase for UC risk.

  3. Glove Changing Habits in Mobile Food Vendors in New York City.

    PubMed

    Basch, Corey H; Guerra, Laura A; MacDonald, Zerlina; Marte, Myladys; Basch, Charles E

    2015-08-01

    The aim of this study was to determine how often mobile food cart vendors in New York City (NYC) changed gloves after exchanging money, which is required by the current NYC health code as one of various measures to prevent foodborne illness. A total of 100 carts (10 carts in 10 zones) throughout Manhattan were observed. In the majority (56.9%, n = 1,026) of the 1,804 money exchanges, food cart vendors did not change their gloves. Not changing gloves after exchanging money was widespread regardless of food type served (46.6% for breakfast to 63.7% for lunch), and across all 10 zones. Not changing gloves after touching money may result in indirect transmission of agents of disease and pose health risks for consumers.

  4. Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray analysis of the IgV domain of human nectin-4.

    PubMed

    Xu, Xiang; Zhang, Xiaoai; Lu, Guangwen; Cai, Yongping

    2012-08-01

    Nectin-4 belongs to a family of immunoglobulin-like cell adhesion molecules and is highly expressed in cancer cells. Recently, nectin-4 was found to be a receptor of measles virus and the IgV domain sustains strong binding to measles virus H protein. In this study, the successful expression and purification of human nectin-4 V domain (nectin-4v) is reported. The purified protein was crystallized using the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method. The crystals diffracted to 1.8 Å resolution and belonged to space group P2(1), with unit-cell parameters a = 33.1, b = 51.7, c = 56.9 Å, β = 94.7°. Preliminary analysis of the diffraction data was also performed.

  5. Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray analysis of the IgV domain of human nectin-4

    PubMed Central

    Xu, Xiang; Zhang, Xiaoai; Lu, Guangwen; Cai, Yongping

    2012-01-01

    Nectin-4 belongs to a family of immunoglobulin-like cell adhesion molecules and is highly expressed in cancer cells. Recently, nectin-4 was found to be a receptor of measles virus and the IgV domain sustains strong binding to measles virus H protein. In this study, the successful expression and purification of human nectin-4 V domain (nectin-4v) is reported. The purified protein was crystallized using the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method. The crystals diffracted to 1.8 Å resolution and belonged to space group P21, with unit-cell parameters a = 33.1, b = 51.7, c = 56.9 Å, β = 94.7°. Preliminary analysis of the diffraction data was also performed. PMID:22869128

  6. Determination of Lande gJ - factors of La I levels using laser spectroscopic methods: Complementary investigations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sobolewski, Ł. M.; Windholz, L.; Kwela, J.

    2017-11-01

    Laser Induced Fluorescence Spectroscopy (LIF) and Optogalvanic Spectroscopy (OG) were used for the investigation of the Zeeman hyperfine structures of 26 spectral lines of La I in the wavelength range between 569.7 and 665.4 nm. As a source of free La atoms a hollow cathode discharge lamp was used. The spectra were recorded in the presence of a magnetic field of about 800G produced by a permanent magnet for two linear polarizations of the exciting laser light. As a result of the study, we determined for the first time the Landé gJ- factors of 20 levels of La I. For several other levels the Landé gJ- factors were re-investigated and determined with higher precision.

  7. Work related complaints of neck, shoulder and arm among computer office workers: a cross-sectional evaluation of prevalence and risk factors in a developing country.

    PubMed

    Ranasinghe, Priyanga; Perera, Yashasvi S; Lamabadusuriya, Dilusha A; Kulatunga, Supun; Jayawardana, Naveen; Rajapakse, Senaka; Katulanda, Prasad

    2011-08-04

    Complaints of arms, neck and shoulders (CANS) is common among computer office workers. We evaluated an aetiological model with physical/psychosocial risk-factors. We invited 2,500 computer office workers for the study. Data on prevalence and risk-factors of CANS were collected by validated Maastricht-Upper-extremity-Questionnaire. Workstations were evaluated by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Visual-Display-Terminal workstation-checklist. Participants' knowledge and awareness was evaluated by a set of expert-validated questions. A binary logistic regression analysis investigated relationships/correlations between risk-factors and symptoms. Sample size was 2,210. Mean age 30.8 ± 8.1 years, 50.8% were males. The 1-year prevalence of CANS was 56.9%, commonest region of complaint was forearm/hand (42.6%), followed by neck (36.7%) and shoulder/arm (32.0%). In those with CANS, 22.7% had taken treatment from a health care professional, only in 1.1% seeking medical advice an occupation-related injury had been suspected/diagnosed. In addition 9.3% reported CANS-related absenteeism from work, while 15.4% reported CANS causing disruption of normal activities. A majority of evaluated workstations in all participants (88.4%,) and in those with CANS (91.9%) had OSHA non-compliant workstations. In the binary logistic regression analyses female gender, daily computer usage, incorrect body posture, bad work-habits, work overload, poor social support and poor ergonomic knowledge were associated with CANS and its' severity In a multiple logistic regression analysis controlling for age, gender and duration of occupation, incorrect body posture, bad work-habits and daily computer usage were significant independent predictors of CANS. The prevalence of work-related CANS among computer office workers in Sri Lanka, a developing, South Asian country is high and comparable to prevalence in developed countries. Work-related physical factors, psychosocial factors and lack of awareness were all important associations of CANS and effective preventive strategies need to address all three areas.

  8. Happiness and Defense Styles in Psychiatrists.

    PubMed

    Machado, Leonardo; Tavares, Hermano; Petribú, Kátia; Pinto, Tiago; Cantilino, Amaury

    2016-03-01

    The aim of this study was to measure happiness in a sample of Brazilian psychiatrists and correlate it with the defense styles used by them and sociodemographic data. This study was observational, cross-sectional, and analytical. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires by Brazilian psychiatrists who participated in the XXXII Brazilian Congress of Psychiatry, 2014. In this sample of psychiatrists, happiness levels were high (scoring 5.69 of a total of 7), and mature defense styles prevailed, especially humor and anticipation. In a multivariate analysis, having children, good sleep quality, increased sexual interest, and use of defense styles such as humor, anticipation, and idealization all showed a positive relationship with happiness; on the other hand, using defense style such as acting out or annulment demonstrated a negative relationship with happiness. Despite the well-known professional burden that they bear, Brazilian psychiatrists surveyed presented, in general, high levels of subjective well-being and happiness.

  9. Agricultural residues for cellulolytic enzyme production by Aspergillus niger: effects of pretreatment.

    PubMed

    Salihu, Aliyu; Abbas, Olagunju; Sallau, Abdullahi Balarabe; Alam, Md Zahangir

    2015-12-01

    Different agricultural residues were considered in this study for their ability to support cellulolytic enzyme production by Aspergillus niger. A total of eleven agricultural residues including finger millet hulls, sorghum hulls, soybean hulls, groundnut husk, banana peels, corn stalk, cassava peels, sugarcane bagasse, saw dust, rice straw and sheanut cake were subjected to three pretreatment (acid, alkali and oxidative) methods. All the residues supported the growth and production of cellulases by A. niger after 96 h of incubation. Maximum cellulase production was found in alkali-treated soybean hulls with CMCase, FPase and β-glucosidase yields of 9.91 ± 0.04, 6.20 ± 0.13 and 5.69 ± 0.29 U/g, respectively. Further studies in assessing the potential of soybean hulls are being considered to optimize the medium composition and process parameters for enhanced cellulase production.

  10. Asthenopia (eyestrain) in working children of gem-polishing industries.

    PubMed

    Tiwari, Rajnarayan R; Saha, Asim; Parikh, Jagdish R

    2011-04-01

    Working children of gem-polishing units are exposed to poor illumination and improper workstations. Also processes require lot of visual and mental concentration for precision. This may result in eyestrain. The study included 432 exposed and 569 comparison group subjects. Self-reported eyestrain was recorded through personal interview. Eyestrain included symptoms like itching, burning, or irritated eyes; tired or heavy eyes; difficulty seeing clearly (including blurred or double vision); and headache. The study variables included age, gender, daily working hours, and duration of exposure. The prevalence of eyestrain in child labourers was 32.2%, which was significantly more than the comparison group subjects. Also, the working children of gem-polishing units were at 1.4 times higher risk of developing eyestrain. Age (3)14 years and female gender were significantly associated with the eyestrain. The prevalence of eyestrain in child labourers was 32.2% and was associated with age (3)14 years and female gender.

  11. Readmissions due to traffic accidents at a general hospital.

    PubMed

    Paiva, Luciana; Monteiro, Damiana Aparecida Trindade; Pompeo, Daniele Alcalá; Ciol, Márcia Aparecida; Dantas, Rosana Aparecida Spadotti; Rossi, Lídia Aparecida

    2015-01-01

    to verify the occurrence and the causes of hospital readmissions within a year after discharge from hospitalizations due to traffic accidents. victims of multiple traumas due to traffic accidents were included, who were admitted to an Intensive Care Unit. Sociodemographic data, accident circumstances, body regions affected and cause of readmission were collected from the patient histories. among the 109 victims of traffic accidents, the majority were young and adult men. Most hospitalizations due to accidents involved motorcycle drivers (56.9%). The causes of the return to the hospital were: need to continue the surgical treatment (63.2%), surgical site infection (26.3%) and fall related to the physical sequelae of the trauma (10.5%). The rehospitalization rate corresponded to 174/1,000 people/year. the hospital readmission rate in the study population is similar to the rates found in other studies. Victims of severe limb traumas need multiple surgical procedures, lengthier hospitalizations and extended rehabilitation.

  12. Temperature dependences of characteristics of 2,5-hexanediol and 1,2,6-hexanetriol cluster structures according to dielectric radiospectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Usacheva, T. M.; Zhuravlev, V. I.

    2013-03-01

    Dielectric radiospectra (DRS) of 2,5-hexanediol and 1,2,6-hexanetriol at frequencies of 1 MHz, 9.375, 36.885, and 74.569 GHz in a temperature range of 303-423 K (above the glass transition temperatures) are studied. Experimental DRS are analyzed using the Dissado-Hill (DH) cluster model. The dependence of the equilibrium and relaxation characteristics of DRS on the number of OH groups is studied. The dipole moments of the clusters are calculated. The change in the orientation of the dipole moments of the molecules in the cluster during the rearranging of its structure is characterized through the unit vector of the longitudinal component of dipole moment M e of the cluster. The relation between a change in the Onsager-Kirkwood-Fröhlich correlation factor and the behavior of M e is shown.

  13. Semi-automated stand delineation in Mediterranean Pinus sylvestris plantations through segmentation of LiDAR data: The influence of pulse density

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Varo-Martínez, Mª Ángeles; Navarro-Cerrillo, Rafael M.; Hernández-Clemente, Rocío; Duque-Lazo, Joaquín

    2017-04-01

    Traditionally, forest-stand delineation has been assessed based on orthophotography. The application of LiDAR has improved forest management by providing high-spatial-resolution data on the vertical structure of the forest. The aim of this study was to develop and test a semi-automated algorithm for stands delineation in a plantation of Pinus sylvestris L. using LiDAR data. Three specific objectives were evaluated, i) to assess two complementary LiDAR metrics, Assmann dominant height and basal area, for the characterization of the structure of P. sylvestris Mediterranean forests based on object-oriented segmentation, ii) to evaluate the influence of the LiDAR pulse density on forest-stand delineation accuracy, and iii) to investigate the algorithmś effectiveness in the delineation of P. sylvestris stands for map prediction of Assmann dominant height and basal area. Our results show that it is possible to generate accurate P. sylvestris forest-stand segmentations using multiresolution or mean shift segmentation methods, even with low-pulse-density LiDAR - which is an important economic advantage for forest management. However, eCognition multiresolution methods provided better results than the OTB (Orfeo Tool Box) for stand delineation based on dominant height and basal area estimations. Furthermore, the influence of pulse density on the results was not statistically significant in the basal area calculations. However, there was a significant effect of pulse density on Assmann dominant height [F2,9595 = 5.69, p = 0.003].for low pulse density. We propose that the approach shown here should be considered for stand delineation in other large Pinus plantations in Mediterranean regions with similar characteristics.

  14. In vitro evaluation of antibacterial effect of AH Plus incorporated with quaternary ammonium epoxy silicate against Enterococcus faecalis.

    PubMed

    Gong, Shi-Qiang; Huang, Zhi-Bin; Shi, Wei; Ma, Bo; Tay, Franklin R; Zhou, Bin

    2014-10-01

    The purpose of this study was to evaluate the in vitro antibacterial effect of AH Plus (Dentsply, DeTrey, Konstanz, Germany) incorporated with quaternary ammonium epoxy silicate (QAES) against Enterococcus faecalis. QAES particles were synthesized by the cocondensation of tetraethoxysilane with 2 trialkoxysilanes (3-[trimethoxysilyl]propyldimethyloctadecyl ammonium chloride and 3-glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane) through a 1-pot sol-gel route. Dried QAES particles were then characterized by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. AH Plus sealers incorporated with 0-8 wt% QAES were tested after 4 weeks of water aging to assess the in vitro antibacterial activity against E. faecalis by the direct contact test (DCT) and 3-dimensional image analysis of live/dead-stained E. faecalis biofilms using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectrum of QAES particles revealed the coexistence of the characteristic absorbance band of the siloxane backbone (Si-O-Si) from 1,000-1,100 cm(-1), epoxide band peaking at ∼916 cm(-1), and C-N stretching vibration peaking at 1,373 cm(-1). The scanning electron microscopic image showed the spherical morphology of QAES particles with ∼120 nm in diameter and a rough surface. DCT results revealed that AH Plus alone (0 wt% QAES) after 4 weeks of water aging had no inhibitory effect on E. faecalis growth (P = .569). AH Plus incorporated with QAES (2-8 wt%) showed antibacterial activity against E. faecalis as shown in DCT and biofilm viability results (P < .001). The incorporation of QAES into epoxy resin-based AH Plus may be a promising approach for controlling endodontic infection at the time of canal filling and preventing subsequent reinfection. Copyright © 2014 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  15. Helicobacter pylori bab characterization in clinical isolates from Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal and Bangladesh.

    PubMed

    Ansari, Shamshul; Kabamba, Evariste Tshibangu; Shrestha, Pradeep Krishna; Aftab, Hafeza; Myint, Thein; Tshering, Lotay; Sharma, Rabi Prakash; Ni, Nwe; Aye, Than Than; Subsomwong, Phawinee; Uchida, Tomohisa; Ratanachu-Ek, Thawee; Vilaichone, Ratha-Korn; Mahachai, Varocha; Matsumoto, Takashi; Akada, Junko; Yamaoka, Yoshio

    2017-01-01

    Helicobacter pylori BabA is an important outer membrane protein that involves in the attachment to the gastric mucosa and enhances the virulence property of the bacterium. This study was aimed to characterize the bab genotypes, to evaluate its association with cagA, vacA and clinical diseases as well as degree of gastric inflammation. H. pylori isolates from four countries were subjected for the characterization of bab. The locus specific forward and bab specific reverse primers were used to get the specific products by PCR, which could distinguish the three locus (A, B and C). The histological activities were evaluated according to the Updated Sydney system. In patients from high risk countries (Bhutan and Myanmar) relatively higher frequencies of strains with babA-positivity (91.8% and 90.7%, respectively), babA at locus A (98% and 91.2%, respectively) and with single babA (96.8% and 91.2%, respectively) were found. Strains with two loci occupied were the most prevalent in Bhutan (84.6%), Myanmar (74.7%), Nepal (58.3%) and Bangladesh (56.9%). The genotype babA at locus A/babB at locus B/bab-negative at locus C (babA/babB/-) was the most common genotype isolated from Bhutan (82.7%), Myanmar (58.7%), Nepal (32%) and Bangladesh (31.4%) among all genotypes assessed. This genotype was also associated with the peptic ulcer disease (P = 0.013) when compared to gastritis. babA-positive characteristics and the genotype babA/babB/- exhibited the enhanced histological activities. The higher prevalence of virulence associated babA-positive characteristics and enhanced histological activities in Bhutan than in Myanmar, Nepal and Bangladesh might partly explain why the peoples in Bhutan are at higher risk for developing severe gastric complications.

  16. Comparison of Different Scoring Systems Based on Both Donor and Recipient Characteristics for Predicting Outcome after Living Donor Liver Transplantation.

    PubMed

    Ma, Yucheng; Wang, Qing; Yang, Jiayin; Yan, Lunan

    2015-01-01

    In order to provide a good match between donor and recipient in liver transplantation, four scoring systems [the product of donor age and Model for End-stage Liver Disease score (D-MELD), the score to predict survival outcomes following liver transplantation (SOFT), the balance of risk score (BAR), and the transplant risk index (TRI)] based on both donor and recipient parameters were designed. This study was conducted to evaluate the performance of the four scores in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) and compare them with the MELD score. The clinical data of 249 adult patients undergoing LDLT in our center were retrospectively evaluated. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of each score were calculated and compared at 1-, 3-, 6-month and 1-year after LDLT. The BAR at 1-, 3-, 6-month and 1-year after LDLT and the D-MELD and TRI at 1-, 3- and 6-month after LDLT showed acceptable performances in the prediction of survival (AUC>0.6), while the SOFT showed poor discrimination at 6-month after LDLT (AUC = 0.569). In addition, the D-MELD and BAR displayed positive correlations with the length of ICU stay (D-MELD, p = 0.025; BAR, p = 0.022). The SOFT was correlated with the time of mechanical ventilation (p = 0.022). The D-MELD, BAR and TRI provided acceptable performance in predicting survival after LDLT. However, even though these scoring systems were based on both donor and recipient parameters, only the BAR provided better performance than the MELD in predicting 1-year survival after LDLT.

  17. Relationship between recent short-acting β-agonist use and subsequent asthma exacerbations

    PubMed Central

    Paris, Jason; Peterson, Edward L.; Wells, Karen; Pladevall, Manel; Burchard, Esteban G.; Choudhry, Shweta; Lanfear, David E.; Williams, L. Keoki

    2009-01-01

    Background US national guidelines recommend assessing short-acting β-agonist (SABA) medication use as a marker of asthma severity and control. However, the relationship between recent SABA use and asthma exacerbations is not currently known. Objective To evaluate the proximal relationship between the type and frequency of SABA use and asthma-related outcomes. Methods We evaluated SABA use among patients with asthma ages 5 to 56 years who were members of a large health maintenance organization in southeast Michigan. Frequency of use was estimated from pharmacy data assessing the timing and amount of SABA fills. Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine the prospective relationship between average daily SABA use for 3 months and outcomes associated with poor asthma control (ie, oral corticosteroids use, asthma-related emergency department visits, and asthma-related hospitalizations). We separately accounted for SABA metered-dose inhaler (MDI) and SABA nebulizer use. Results Of the 2,056 patients who met study criteria, 1,569 (76.3%) had used a SABA medication in their baseline year. After adjusting for potential confounders, SABA nebulizer use was associated with asthma-related emergency department visits (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 6.32; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.38 to 16.80) and asthma-related hospitalizations (aHR, 21.62; 95% CI, 3.17 to 147.57). In contrast, frequency of SABA MDI use was not associated with these outcomes. Conclusions Frequency of SABA use during a 3-month period was associated with poor asthma outcomes. The relationship with poor asthma outcomes was strongest for SABA nebulizer use, suggesting that the type of SABA used is also of prognostic importance. PMID:19055201

  18. The dose effect of ephedrine on the onset time and intubating conditions after cisatracurium administration

    PubMed Central

    Cha, Dong Guk; Jeong, Ji Seon; Kwon, Hye Mee

    2014-01-01

    Background The aim of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to evaluate dose effects of ephedrine pretreatment on the onset time and intubating conditions after cisatracurium administration. Methods A total of 140 adult patients were randomized into 4 groups to receive either 30 µg/kg ephedrine (Group 30, n = 35), 70 µg/kg ephedrine (Group 70, n = 35), 110 µg/kg ephedrine (Group 110, n = 35), 3 ml normal saline (Group C, n = 35) as pretreatment given 30 s before anesthetic induction. Neuromuscular block was achieved with 0.15 mg/kg cisatracurium, evaluated accelomyographically with train-of-four stimulation. An anesthesiologist blinded to patient grouping assessed the intubating conditions 1.5 min after cisatracurium administration. Results An onset time of 70 s was obtained in the ephedrine groups (Group 30: 155.4 ± 44.7 s, Group 70: 152.6 ± 40.3 s, Group 110: 151.2 ± 51.6 s) compared to Group C (224.6 ± 56.9 s) after 0.15 mg/kg of cisatracurium (P < 0.001). Ephedrine doses of either 70 or 110 µg/kg for pretreatment significantly improved intubating conditions (P < 0.05). Systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate at 1 min after tracheal intubation were significantly increased than other times in all groups (P < 0.001), with no differences among the groups. However, 5 patients in Group 110 experienced marked hypertension (systolic/diastolic blood pressure: > 200/100 mmHg) 1 min after tracheal intubation with no patients in other groups. Conclusions We conclude that pre-treatment with ephedrine 70 µg/kg improved intubating conditions 1.5 min after cisatracurium administration and facilitated the onset of neuromuscular block (70 s) without adverse hemodynamic effects. PMID:25097735

  19. Feasibility of a knowledge translation CME program: Courriels Cochrane.

    PubMed

    Pluye, Pierre; Grad, Roland; Granikov, Vera; Theriault, Guyléne; Frémont, Pierre; Burnand, Bernard; Mercer, Jay; Marlow, Bernard; Arroll, Bruce; Luconi, Francesca; Légaré, France; Labrecque, Michel; Ladouceur, Roger; Bouthillier, France; Sridhar, Soumya Bindiganavile; Moscovici, Jonathan

    2012-01-01

    Systematic literature reviews provide best evidence, but are underused by clinicians. Thus, integrating Cochrane reviews into continuing medical education (CME) is challenging. We designed a pilot CME program where summaries of Cochrane reviews (Courriels Cochrane) were disseminated by e-mail. Program participants automatically received CME credit for each Courriel Cochrane they rated. The feasibility of this program is reported (delivery, participation, and participant evaluation). We recruited French-speaking physicians through the Canadian Medical Association. Program delivery and participation were documented. Participants rated the informational value of Courriels Cochrane using the Information Assessment Method (IAM), which documented their reflective learning (relevance, cognitive impact, use for a patient, expected health benefits). IAM responses were aggregated and analyzed. The program was delivered as planned. Thirty Courriels Cochrane were delivered to 985 physicians, and 127 (12.9%) completed at least one IAM questionnaire. Out of 1109 Courriels Cochrane ratings, 973 (87.7%) conta-ined 1 or more types of positive cognitive impact, while 835 (75.3%) were clinically relevant. Participants reported the use of information for a patient and expected health benefits in 595 (53.7%) and 569 (51.3%) ratings, respectively. Program delivery required partnering with 5 organizations. Participants valued Courriels Cochrane. IAM ratings documented their reflective learning. The aggregation of IAM ratings documented 3 levels of CME outcomes: participation, learning, and performance. This evaluation study demonstrates the feasibility of the Courriels Cochrane as an approach to further disseminate Cochrane systematic literature reviews to clinicians and document self-reported knowledge translation associated with Cochrane reviews. Copyright © 2012 The Alliance for Continuing Education in the Health Professions, the Society for Academic Continuing Medical Education, and the Council on CME, Association for Hospital Medical Education.

  20. Comparison of Different Scoring Systems Based on Both Donor and Recipient Characteristics for Predicting Outcome after Living Donor Liver Transplantation

    PubMed Central

    2015-01-01

    Background and Objectives In order to provide a good match between donor and recipient in liver transplantation, four scoring systems [the product of donor age and Model for End-stage Liver Disease score (D-MELD), the score to predict survival outcomes following liver transplantation (SOFT), the balance of risk score (BAR), and the transplant risk index (TRI)] based on both donor and recipient parameters were designed. This study was conducted to evaluate the performance of the four scores in living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) and compare them with the MELD score. Patients and Methods The clinical data of 249 adult patients undergoing LDLT in our center were retrospectively evaluated. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUCs) of each score were calculated and compared at 1-, 3-, 6-month and 1-year after LDLT. Results The BAR at 1-, 3-, 6-month and 1-year after LDLT and the D-MELD and TRI at 1-, 3- and 6-month after LDLT showed acceptable performances in the prediction of survival (AUC>0.6), while the SOFT showed poor discrimination at 6-month after LDLT (AUC = 0.569). In addition, the D-MELD and BAR displayed positive correlations with the length of ICU stay (D-MELD, p = 0.025; BAR, p = 0.022). The SOFT was correlated with the time of mechanical ventilation (p = 0.022). Conclusion The D-MELD, BAR and TRI provided acceptable performance in predicting survival after LDLT. However, even though these scoring systems were based on both donor and recipient parameters, only the BAR provided better performance than the MELD in predicting 1-year survival after LDLT. PMID:26378786

  1. Evaluation of an integrated multisector campaign to increase child helmet use in Vietnam.

    PubMed

    Nhan, Le Dinh Trong; Parker, Lukas; Son, Mai Thi Hoai; Parker, Erin M; Moore, Matthew R; Sidik, Mirjam; Draisin, Natalie

    2017-11-25

    This study presents child helmet use before, during and after implementing the Vietnamese National Child Helmet Action Plan (NCHAP) and evaluates its effect on child helmet use. The NCHAP, an integrated multisector campaign, incorporated a wide-scale public awareness campaign, school-based interventions, increased police patrolling and enforcement, and capacity building and support to relevant government departments in target provinces. In Vietnam's three largest cities, 100 schools in 20 districts were selected to monitor motorcycle helmet use behaviour. The effectiveness of the NCHAP was measured by unannounced, filmed observations of student motorcycle passengers and their adult drivers as they arrived or left their schools at four points. Baseline observations at each school were conducted in March 2014, with subsequent observations in April 2015, December 2015 and May 2016. Across the 84 218 observed students, student helmet prevalence increased from 36.1% in March 2014 to 69.3% immediately after the initiation in April 2015. Subsequent observations in December 2015 and May 2016 showed a reduction and stabilisation of helmet use, with 49.8% and 56.9% of students wearing helmets, respectively. Helmet use in students was higher when adult drivers were also wearing helmets. Integrated multisectoral interventions between governments, civil society and the corporate sector that incorporate communications, school-based education, incentives for change and police enforcement have the potential to increase helmet use among children. Future integrated campaigns may be more effective with an increased focus on parents and other adult drivers given their potential influence on child helmet use. © Article author(s) (or their employer(s) unless otherwise stated in the text of the article) 2017. All rights reserved. No commercial use is permitted unless otherwise expressly granted.

  2. Evaluation of the Vitek MS v3.0 Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry System for Identification of Mycobacterium and Nocardia Species.

    PubMed

    Body, Barbara A; Beard, Melodie A; Slechta, E Susan; Hanson, Kimberly E; Barker, Adam P; Babady, N Esther; McMillen, Tracy; Tang, Yi-Wei; Brown-Elliott, Barbara A; Iakhiaeva, Elena; Vasireddy, Ravikiran; Vasireddy, Sruthi; Smith, Terry; Wallace, Richard J; Turner, S; Curtis, L; Butler-Wu, Susan; Rychert, Jenna

    2018-06-01

    This multicenter study was designed to assess the accuracy and reproducibility of the Vitek MS v3.0 matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry system for identification of Mycobacterium and Nocardia species compared to DNA sequencing. A total of 963 clinical isolates representing 51 taxa were evaluated. In all, 663 isolates were correctly identified to the species level (69%), with another 231 (24%) correctly identified to the complex or group level. Fifty-five isolates (6%) could not be identified despite repeat testing. All of the tuberculous mycobacteria (45/45; 100%) and most of the nontuberculous mycobacteria (569/606; 94%) were correctly identified at least to the group or complex level. However, not all species or subspecies within the M. tuberculosis , M. abscessus , and M. avium complexes and within the M. fortuitum and M. mucogenicum groups could be differentiated. Among the 312 Nocardia isolates tested, 236 (76%) were correctly identified to the species level, with an additional 44 (14%) correctly identified to the complex level. Species within the N. nova and N. transvalensis complexes could not always be differentiated. Eleven percent of the isolates (103/963) underwent repeat testing in order to get a final result. Identification of a representative set of Mycobacterium and Nocardia species was highly reproducible, with 297 of 300 (99%) replicates correctly identified using multiple kit lots, instruments, analysts, and sites. These findings demonstrate that the system is robust and has utility for the routine identification of mycobacteria and Nocardia in clinical practice. Copyright © 2018 American Society for Microbiology.

  3. Clinical Outcomes and Complications during the Learning Curve for Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty: An Analysis of the First 40 Cases

    PubMed Central

    Song, Kwang-Soon; Koo, Tae-Won

    2017-01-01

    Background The purpose of this study was to investigate the results and complications during the learning curve of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA) for rotator cuff deficiency. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the first 40 cases of RTSA performed by a single surgeon. The mean age of patients was 72.7 years (range, 63 to 81 years) and mean follow-up period was 26.7 months (range, 9 to 57 months). Clinical outcomes were evaluated using a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) shoulder score, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon (ASES) score, subjective shoulder value (SSV), and active range of motion (ROM). Intraoperative and postoperative complications were also evaluated. Results The average VAS pain score, UCLA score, ASES score, and SSV improved from 6.9%, 12.8%, 29.0%, and 29.0% before surgery to 1.6%, 27.0%, 73.3%, and 71.5% after surgery, respectively (p < 0.001). The mean forward flexion, abduction, and external rotation improved from 68.0°, 56.9°, and 28.0° before surgery to 131.0°, 112.3°, and 38.8° after surgery, respectively (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.021). However, the mean internal rotation did not improve after surgery (p = 0.889). Scapular notching was observed in 33 patients (51.5%). Eight shoulders (20%) had complications, including 2 major (1 deep infection and 1 glenoid fixation failure) and 6 minor complications (3 brachial plexus injuries, 2 acromial fractures, and 1 intraoperative periprosthetic fracture). Conclusions The first 40 cases of RTSA performed by a single surgeon during the learning curve period showed satisfactory short-term follow-up results with an acceptable complication rate. PMID:28567225

  4. Clinical balance assessment: perceptions of commonly-used standardized measures and current practices among physiotherapists in Ontario, Canada

    PubMed Central

    2013-01-01

    Background Balance impairment is common in multiple clinical populations, and comprehensive assessment is important for identifying impairments, planning individualized treatment programs, and evaluating change over time. However, little information is available regarding whether clinicians who treat balance are satisfied with existing assessment tools. In 2010 we conducted a cross-sectional survey of balance assessment practices among physiotherapists in Ontario, Canada, and reported on the use of standardized balance measures (Sibley et al. 2011 Physical Therapy; 91: 1583-91). The purpose of this study was to analyse additional survey data and i) evaluate satisfaction with current balance assessment practices and standardized measures among physiotherapists who treat adult or geriatric populations with balance impairment, and ii) identify factors associated with satisfaction. Methods The questionnaire was distributed to 1000 practicing physiotherapists. This analysis focuses on questions in which respondents were asked to rate their general perceptions about balance assessment, the perceived utility of individual standardized balance measures, whether they wanted to improve balance assessment practices, and why. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics and utility of individual measures was compared across clinical practice areas (orthopaedic, neurological, geriatric or general rehabilitation). Results The questionnaire was completed by 369 respondents, of which 43.4% of respondents agreed that existing standardized measures of balance meet their needs. In ratings of individual measures, the Single Leg Stance test and Berg Balance Scale were perceived as useful for clinical decision-making and evaluating change over time by over 70% of respondents, and the Timed Up-and-Go test was perceived as useful for decision-making by 56.9% of respondents and useful for evaluating change over time by 62.9% of respondents, but there were significant differences across practice groups. Seventy-nine percent of respondents wanted to improve their assessments, identifying individual, environmental and measure-specific barriers. The most common barriers were lack of time and knowledge. Conclusions This study offers new information on issues affecting the evaluation of balance in clinical settings from a broad sample of physiotherapists. Continued work to address barriers by specific practice area will be critical for the success of any intervention attempting to implement optimal balance assessment practices in the clinical setting. PMID:23510277

  5. Oncogenic activation of v-kit involves deletion of a putative tyrosine-substrate interaction site.

    PubMed

    Herbst, R; Munemitsu, S; Ullrich, A

    1995-01-19

    The transforming gene of the Hardy-Zuckerman-4 strain of feline sarcoma virus, v-kit, arose by transduction of the cellular c-kit gene, which encodes the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) p145c-kit. To gain insight into the molecular basis of the v-kit transforming potential, we characterized the feline c-kit by cDNA cloning. Comparison of the feline v-kit and c-kit sequences revealed, in addition to deletions of the extracellular and transmembrane domains, three additional mutations in the v-kit oncogene product: deletion of tyrosine-569 and valine-570, the exchange of aspartate at position 761 to glycine, and replacement of the C-terminal 50 amino acids by five unrelated residues. Examinations of individual v-kit mutations in the context of chimeric receptors yielded inhibitory effects for some mutants on both autophosphorylation and substrate phosphorylation functions. In contrast, deletion of tyrosine-569 and valine-570 significantly enhanced transforming and mitogenic activities of p145c-kit, while the other mutations had no significant effects. Conservation in subclass III RTKs and the identification of the corresponding residue in beta PDGF-R, Y579, as a binding site for src family tyrosine kinases suggests an important role for Y568 in kit signal regulation and the definition of its oncogenic potential. Repositioning of Y571 by an inframe two codon deletion may be the crucial alteration resulting in enhancement of v-kit oncogenic activity.

  6. Changing characteristics of livestock-associated meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from humans - emergence of a subclade transmitted without livestock exposure, the Netherlands, 2003 to 2014.

    PubMed

    Bosch, Thijs; van Luit, Martijn; Pluister, Gerlinde N; Frentz, Dineke; Haenen, Anja; Landman, Fabian; Witteveen, Sandra; van Marm-Wattimena, Naomi; van der Heide, Han G; Schouls, Leo M

    2016-05-26

    Since 2007, livestock-associated meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (LA-MRSA) has become the predominant MRSA clade isolated from humans in the Netherlands. To assess possible temporal changes, we molecularly characterised over 9,000 LA-MRSA isolates submitted from 2003 to 2014 to the Dutch MRSA surveillance. After an initial rapid increase with a peak in 2009 (n = 1,368), the total number of submitted LA-MRSA isolates has been slowly decreasing to 968 in 2014 and over 80% of LA-MRSA belonged to one of three predominant MLVA/spa-types. Next generation sequencing (n=118) showed that MT569/t034 isolates were genetically more diverse than MT398/t011 and MT572/t108. Concurrent with the decrease in LA-MRSA, fewer people reported having contact with livestock and this was most prominent for people carrying MT569/t034 LA-MRSA. The proportion of LA-MRSA isolated from infection-related materials increased from 6% in 2009, to 13% in 2014 and most of these isolates originated from patients older than 50 years of age. Remarkably, 83% of these patients reported not having contact with livestock. The results reveal an ongoing change in the genotypic and epidemiological characteristics of Dutch LA-MRSA isolated from humans with the emergence of a LA-MRSA subclade independent of livestock exposure, suggesting LA-MRSA starts to resemble non-LA-MRSA in terms of transmissibility and pathogenicity.

  7. Impact of Insurance Type on Eligibility for Advanced Heart Failure Therapies and Survival.

    PubMed

    Hutcheson, Sarah Streeter; Phillips, Victoria; Patzer, Rachel; Smith, Andrew; Vega, J David; Morris, Alanna A

    2018-06-15

    Medicaid insurance in Georgia provides limited reimbursement for heart transplant (HT) and left ventricular assist devices (LVAD). We examined whether insurance type affects eligibility for and survival after receipt of HT or LVAD. We retrospectively identified patients evaluated for HT/LVAD from 2012 to 2016. We used multivariable logistic and Cox proportional hazards regression to examine the association of insurance type on treatment eligibility and one year survival. Of 569 patients evaluated, 282 (49.6%) had private, 222 (39.0%) had Medicare, and 65 (11.4%) had Medicaid insurance. Patients with Medicaid were younger, more likely to be Black, with fewer medical comorbidities. In adjusted models, Medicare and Medicaid insurance predicted lower odds of eligibility for HT, but did not affect survival after HT. Among those ineligible for HT, Medicaid patients were less likely to receive destination therapy (DT) LVAD (adj OR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01-0.66; P=0.02) and had increased risk of death (adj HR=2.03, 95% CI 1.13 -3.63; p=0.01). Despite younger age and fewer comorbidities, patients with Medicaid insurance are less likely to receive DT LVAD, and have an increased risk of death once deemed ineligible for HT. Medicaid patients in Georgia need improved access to DT LVAD. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

  8. Epidemiological and serological profiles of ocular toxoplasmosis in the municipality of Natal, northeastern Brazil.

    PubMed

    Mendes, Norma H D; Oliveira, Claudio B S; Garcia, Carlos A; Holanda, Cecília M X C; Andrade-Neto, Valter F

    2014-10-01

    Toxoplasma gondii is the main culprit in most cases of infectious uveitis, in both acute and recurrent cases of congenital toxoplasmosis and acquired infections. The ocular toxoplasmosis was evaluated in patients at the the reference unit in ophthalmology, in Rio Grande do Norte State, determining the risk factors, and the epidemic, serological and clinical profiles. The production of IgM and IgG antibodies to T. gondii was evaluated by microparticle enzyme immunoassay (MEIA). The same patients diagnosed with fundoscopic alterations have been subjected to the fundus photography procedure. Of the 116 patients with positive serology, 66 patients had bilateral ocular damage and 38 patients showed a higher frequency of lesions of type I. The epidemiological investigation showed that direct contact with cats, the consumption of raw or undercooked meat and direct contact with soil are factors not related to ocular toxoplasmosis development. The characterization of the sample was significant for patients aged 31-40 years. Ocular toxoplasmosis is widely distributed in Natal and other cities in Rio Grande do Norte state, with special relevance for bilateral lesions in 56.9% of the patients assessed, the most frequent being type I with intraocular disposition in the macula. © The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. All rights reserved. For permissions, please e-mail: journals.permissions@oup.com.

  9. Drivers and rates of stock assessments in the United States

    PubMed Central

    Thorson, James T.; Melnychuk, Michael C.; Methot, Richard; Blackhart, Kristan

    2018-01-01

    Fisheries management is most effective when based on scientific estimates of sustainable fishing rates. While some simple approaches allow estimation of harvest limits, more data-intensive stock assessments are generally required to evaluate the stock’s biomass and fishing rates relative to sustainable levels. Here we evaluate how stock characteristics relate to the rate of new assessments in the United States. Using a statistical model based on time-to-event analysis and 569 coastal marine fish and invertebrate stocks landed in commercial fisheries, we quantify the impact of region, habitat, life-history, and economic factors on the annual probability of being assessed. Although the majority of landings come from assessed stocks in all regions, less than half of the regionally-landed species currently have been assessed. As expected, our time-to-event model identified landed tonnage and ex-vessel price as the dominant factors determining increased rates of new assessments. However, we also found that after controlling for landings and price, there has been a consistent bias towards assessing larger-bodied species. A number of vulnerable groups such as rockfishes (Scorpaeniformes) and groundsharks (Carcharhiniformes) have a relatively high annual probability of being assessed after controlling for their relatively small tonnage and low price. Due to relatively low landed tonnage and price of species that are currently unassessed, our model suggests that the number of assessed stocks will increase more slowly in future decades. PMID:29750789

  10. Identification of novel rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus B-cell epitopes and their interaction with host histo-blood group antigens.

    PubMed

    Song, Yanhua; Wang, Fang; Fan, Zhiyu; Hu, Bo; Liu, Xing; Wei, Houjun; Xue, Jiabin; Xu, Weizhong; Qiu, Rulong

    2016-02-01

    Rabbit haemorrhagic disease, caused by rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV), results in the death of millions of adult rabbits worldwide, with a mortality rate that exceeds 90%. The sole capsid protein, VP60, is divided into shell (S) and protruding (P) domains, and the more exposed P domain likely contains determinants for cell attachment and antigenic diversity. Nine mAbs against VP60 were screened and identified. To map antigenic epitopes, a set of partially overlapping and consecutive truncated proteins spanning VP60 were expressed. The minimal determinants of the linear B-cell epitopes of VP60 in the P domain, N(326)PISQV(331), D(338)MSFV(342) and K(562)STLVFNL(569), were recognized by one (5H3), four (1B8, 3D11, 4C2 and 4G2) and four mAbs (1D4, 3F7, 5G2 and 6B2), respectively. Sequence alignment showed epitope D(338)MSFV(342) was conserved among all RHDV isolates. Epitopes N(326)PISQV(331) and K(562)STLVFNL(569) were highly conserved among RHDV G1-G6 and variable in RHDV2 strains. Previous studies demonstrated that native viral particles and virus-like particles (VLPs) of RHDV specifically bound to synthetic blood group H type 2 oligosaccharides. We established an oligosaccharide-based assay to analyse the binding of VP60 and epitopes to histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs). Results showed VP60 and its epitopes (aa 326-331 and 338-342) in the P2 subdomain could significantly bind to blood group H type 2. Furthermore, mAbs 1B8 and 5H3 could block RHDV VLP binding to synthetic H type 2. Collectively, these two epitopes might play a key role in the antigenic structure of VP60 and interaction of RHDV and HBGA.

  11. Tertiary structural changes and iron release from human serum transferrin.

    PubMed

    Mecklenburg, S L; Donohoe, R J; Olah, G A

    1997-08-01

    Iron release from human serum transferrin was investigated by comparison of the extent of bound iron, measured by charge transfer absorption band intensity (465 nm), with changes observed by small-angle solution X-ray scattering (SAXS) for a series of equilibrated samples between pH 5.69 and 7.77. The phosphate buffers used in this study promote iron release at relatively high pH values, with an empirical pK of 6.9 for the convolved release from the two sites. The spectral data reveal that the N-lobe release is nearly complete by pH 7.0, while the C-lobe remains primarily metal-laden. Conversely, the radius of gyration, Rg, determined from the SAXS data remains constant between pH 7.77 and 7.05, and the evolution of Rg between its value observed for the diferric protein at pH 7.77 (31.2+/-0.2 A) and that of the apo protein at pH 5.69 (33.9+/-0.4 A) exhibits an empirical pK of 6.6. While Rg is effectively constant in the pH range associated with iron release from the N-lobe, the radius of gyration of cross-section, Rc, increases from 16.9+/-0.2 A to 17.6+/-0.2 A. Model simulations suggest that two different rotations of the NII domain relative to the NI domain about a hinge deep in the iron-binding cleft of the N-lobe, one parallel with and one perpendicular to the plane of the iron-binding site, can be significantly advanced relative to their holo protein positions while yielding constant Rg and increased Rc values consistent with the scattering data. Rotation of the CII domain parallel with the C-lobe iron-binding site plane can partially account for the increased Rg values measured at low pH; however, no reasonable combined repositioning of the NII and CII domains yields the experimentally observed increase in Rg.

  12. The worth of land use: a GIS-emergy evaluation of natural and human-made capital.

    PubMed

    Mellino, Salvatore; Buonocore, Elvira; Ulgiati, Sergio

    2015-02-15

    Natural systems make their natural capital and ecosystem services available to human economy. A careful analysis of the interplay between natural and human-made capital is needed to prevent natural capital being overexploited for present economic benefits, affecting lifestyles and wellbeing of future generations. In this study, the emergy synthesis is used to evaluate the natural and the human-made capital of Campania region (southern Italy) by accounting for the environmental support directly and indirectly provided by nature to resource generation. Furthermore, geographic information system (GIS) models are integrated with the emergy accounting procedure to generate maps of the spatial patterns of both natural and human-made capital distribution. Regional storages of natural and human-made capital are identified and evaluated in emergy units (seJ). The human-made capital of the Campania region (6.29E+24seJ) results to be about 11 times higher than the natural capital (5.69E+23seJ) due to the past and present exploitation of the natural resources needed to generate it over time. Moreover, by overlaying the total natural capital map and the total human-made capital map with a map of the protected areas within the region, only the 19% of the regional natural capital appears to be concentrated within protected areas, while most of it (81%) is concentrated outside. These findings suggest that the conservation of natural resources is also necessary outside protected areas by means of suitable policies, directives and investments. The human-made capital is mainly concentrated (88%) inside non-protected areas and interacts with the local natural capital. A management of the interactions between the two categories of wealth is crucial to prevent that the growth of human-made storages degrades the natural ecosystems and the environment. The proposed emergy-GIS framework reveals to be a useful tool for environmental planning and resource management aimed to conserve and protect the regional environmental heritage. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  13. Elevated soluble MUC1 levels and decreased anti-MUC1 antibody levels in patients with multiple myeloma.

    PubMed

    Treon, S P; Maimonis, P; Bua, D; Young, G; Raje, N; Mollick, J; Chauhan, D; Tai, Y T; Hideshima, T; Shima, Y; Hilgers, J; von Mensdorff-Pouilly, S; Belch, A R; Pilarski, L M; Anderson, K C

    2000-11-01

    Soluble MUC1 (sMUC1) levels are elevated in many MUC1(+) cancers. We and others have shown that MUC1 is expressed on multiple myeloma (MM) plasma cells and B cells. In this study, we measured sMUC1 levels in bone marrow (BM) plasma from 71 MM patients and 21 healthy donors (HDs), and in peripheral blood (PB) plasma from 42 MM patients and 13 HDs using an immunoassay that detects the CA27.29 epitope of MUC1. sMUC1 levels were found to be significantly greater (mean 31.76 U/mL, range 5.69 to 142.48 U/mL) in MM patient BM plasma versus HD BM plasma (mean 9.68 U/mL, range 0.65 to 39.83 U/mL) (P <. 001). Importantly, BM plasma sMUC1 levels were related to tumor burden because sMUC1 levels were significantly higher for MM patients with active disease (34.62 U/mL, range 5.69 to 142.48 U/mL) versus MM patients with minimal residual disease (16.16 U/mL, range 5.7 to 56.68 U/mL) (P =.0026). sMUC1 levels were also elevated in the PB plasma of MM patients (32.79 U/mL, range 4.15 to 148.84 U/mL) versus HDs (18.47 U/mL, range 8.84 to 42.49) (P =.0052). Lastly, circulating immunglobulin M (IgM) and IgG antibodies to MUC1 were measured in 114 MM patients and 31 HDs, because natural antibodies to MUC1 have been detected in patients with other MUC1-bearing malignancies. These studies demonstrated lower levels of circulating IgM (P <.001) and IgG (P =.078) antibodies to MUC1 in MM patients compared with HDs. Our data therefore show that in MM patients, sMUC1 levels are elevated and correlate with disease burden, whereas anti-MUC1 antibody levels are decreased.

  14. Quality of post arrest care does not differ by time of day at a specialized resuscitation center.

    PubMed

    Uray, Thomas; Sterz, Fritz; Weiser, Christoph; Schreiber, Wolfgang; Spiel, Alexander; Schober, Andreas; Stratil, Peter; Mayr, Florian B

    2015-04-01

    Previous studies suggest worse outcomes after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) at night. We analyzed whether patients admitted after nontraumatic OHCA to a resuscitation center received the same quality post arrest care at day and night and whether quality of care affected clinical outcomes. We analyzed data of OHCA patients with return of spontaneous circulation admitted to the Vienna general hospital emergency department between January 2006 and May 2013. Data reported include admission time (day defined from 8 AM to 4 PM based on staffing), time to initiation of hypothermia, and door-to-balloon time in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Survival and cognitive performance at 12 months were assessed. In this retrospective observational study, 1059 patients (74% males, n = 784) with a mean age of 58 ± 16 years were analyzed. The vast majority was treated with induced hypothermia (77% of day vs. 79% of night admissions, P = 0.32) within 1 hour of admission (median time admission to cooling 27 (confidence interval [CI]: 10-60) vs. 23 (CI: 11-59) minutes day vs. night, P = 0.99). In 298 patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction, median door-to-balloon time did not differ between day and night admissions (82 minutes, CI: 60 to 142 for day vs. 86 minutes, CI: 50 to 135 for night, P = 0.36). At 12 months, survival was recorded in 238 of 490 day and 275 of 569 night admissions (49% vs. 48%, P = 0.94%), and a good neurologic outcome was recorded in 210 of 490 day and 231 of 569 night admissions (43% vs. 41%, P = 0.46). Patients admitted to our department after OHCA were equally likely to receive timely high-quality postresuscitation care irrespective of time of day. Survival and good neurologic outcome at 12 months did not differ between day and night admissions. Our results may support the concept of specialized post arrest care centers.

  15. Reduction in hepatic drug metabolizing CYP3A4 activities caused by P450 oxidoreductase mutations identified in patients with disordered steroid metabolism

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

    Flueck, Christa E.; Mullis, Primus E.; Pandey, Amit V., E-mail: amit@pandeylab.org

    2010-10-08

    Research highlights: {yields} Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), metabolizes 50% of drugs in clinical use and requires NADPH-P450 reductase (POR). {yields} Mutations in human POR cause congenital adrenal hyperplasia from diminished activities of steroid metabolizing P450s. {yields} We are reporting that mutations in POR may reduce CYP3A4 activity. {yields} POR mutants Y181D, A457H, Y459H, V492E and R616X lost 99%, while A287P, C569Y and V608F lost 60-85% CYP3A4 activity. {yields} Reduction of CYP3A4 activity may cause increased risk of drug toxicities/adverse drug reactions in patients with POR mutations. -- Abstract: Cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4), the major P450 present in human liver metabolizesmore » approximately half the drugs in clinical use and requires electrons supplied from NADPH through NADPH-P450 reductase (POR, CPR). Mutations in human POR cause a rare form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia from diminished activities of steroid metabolizing P450s. In this study we examined the effect of mutations in POR on CYP3A4 activity. We used purified preparations of wild type and mutant human POR and in vitro reconstitution with purified CYP3A4 to perform kinetic studies. We are reporting that mutations in POR identified in patients with disordered steroidogenesis/Antley-Bixler syndrome (ABS) may reduce CYP3A4 activity, potentially affecting drug metabolism in individuals carrying mutant POR alleles. POR mutants Y181D, A457H, Y459H, V492E and R616X had more than 99% loss of CYP3A4 activity, while POR mutations A287P, C569Y and V608F lost 60-85% activity. Loss of CYP3A4 activity may result in increased risk of drug toxicities and adverse drug reactions in patients with POR mutations.« less

  16. Primary tumor location as a predictor of the benefit of palliative resection for colorectal cancer with unresectable metastasis.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Rong-Xin; Ma, Wen-Juan; Gu, Yu-Ting; Zhang, Tian-Qi; Huang, Zhi-Mei; Lu, Zhen-Hai; Gu, Yang-Kui

    2017-07-27

    It is still under debate that whether stage IV colorectal cancer patients with unresectable metastasis can benefit from primary tumor resection, especially for asymptomatic colorectal cancer patients. Retrospective studies have shown controversial results concerning the benefit from surgery. This retrospective study aims to evaluate whether the site of primary tumor is a predictor of palliative resection in asymptomatic stage IV colorectal cancer patients. One hundred ninety-four patients with unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer were selected from Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center Database in the period between January 2007 and December 2013. All information was carefully reviewed and collected, including the treatment, age, sex, carcinoembryonic antigen, site of tumor, histology, cancer antigen 199, number of liver metastases, and largest diameter of liver metastasis. The univariate and multivariate analyses were used to detect the relationship between primary tumor resection and overall survival of unresectable stage IV colorectal cancer patients. One hundred twenty-five received palliative resection, and 69 received only chemotherapy. Multivariate analysis indicated that primary tumor site was one of the independent factors (RR 0.569, P = 0.007) that influenced overall survival. For left-side colon cancer patients, primary tumor resection prolonged the median overall survival time for 8 months (palliative resection vs. no palliative resection: 22 vs. 14 months, P = 0.009); however, for right-side colon cancer patients, palliative resection showed no benefit (12 vs. 10 months, P = 0.910). This study showed that left-side colon cancer patients might benefit from the primary tumor resection in terms of overall survival. This result should be further explored in a prospective study.

  17. The MARCOPOLO Study of Ustekinumab Utilization and Efficacy in a Real-World Setting: Treatment of Patients with Plaque Psoriasis in Asia-Pacific Countries

    PubMed Central

    Youn, Sang Woong; Tsai, Tsen-Fang; Theng, Colin; Choon, Siew-Eng; Wiryadi, Benny E.; Pires, Antonio; Tan, Weihao

    2016-01-01

    Background Ustekinumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody approved for the treatment of chronic moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis in adults. However, factors including efficacy, tolerability, ease of use, and cost burden may affect ustekinumab utilization. Noncompliance may, in turn, affect treatment response. Objective To evaluate ustekinumab utilization in the real-world setting in Asia-Pacific countries. Methods In this phase 4 observational study conducted in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Korea, and Taiwan, adults with plaque psoriasis receiving ustekinumab were followed for up to 52 weeks. Study endpoints were the proportion of all patients using ustekinumab according to label-recommended intervals and the proportion of Korean patients who achieved a psoriasis area severity index 75 response at week 16. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events. Results Overall, 169 patients received ustekinumab (Korea, n=102; other countries, n=67). Just over half (56.2%) of patients used ustekinumab with the label-recommended interval from baseline to week 40; the proportion was higher in Korea (73.5%) than in other countries (29.9%), probably because ustekinumab was provided without charge for Korean patients up to week 40. Noncompliance increased after week 40 in Korea and from week 28 in other Asia-Pacific countries, with cost cited as the most common reason. At week 16, 56.9% of Korean patients achieved a Psoriasis Area Severity Index 75 response. Safety results were in line with those seen in previous studies. Conclusion More than half of all patients in Asia-Pacific countries used ustekinumab as per the label-recommended dose interval, but reimbursement variations between countries may have confounded overall results. PMID:27081271

  18. Fluoropyrimidines plus cisplatin versus gemcitabine/gemcitabine plus cisplatin in locally advanced and metastatic biliary tract carcinoma - a retrospective study.

    PubMed

    Croitoru, Adina; Gramaticu, Iulia; Dinu, Ioana; Gheorghe, Liana; Alexandrescu, Sorin; Buica, Florina; Luca, Ioana; Becheanu, Gabriel; Herlea, Vlad; Simionov, Iulia; Hrehoret, Doina; Lupescu, Ioana; Popescu, Irinel; Diculescu, Mircea

    2012-09-01

    This is a retrospective study of patients with advanced biliary tract carcinoma (BTC), who were treated with different regimens of chemotherapy. We studied patients with advanced BTC registered at the Department of Oncology at the Fundeni Clinical Institute between 2004 and 2008. The following data were analyzed: rate of response, progression free survival (PFS) to first and second line of chemotherapy, overall survival (OS) and drug toxicity. Ninety-six patients were eligible having either advanced intra or extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, or gallbladder cancer with no prior chemotherapy. Out of 96 patients, 57 (59.4%) received fluoropyrimidines (FP)+cisplatin and 39 (40.6%) gemcitabine (Gem)+/-cisplatin. The median PFS for FP+cisplatin was 5.9 months (95%CI 5-6.9) and for Gem+/-cisplatin 6.3 months (95%CI 5.4-7.1), p=0.661. Median OS for FP+cisplatin was 10.3 months (95%CI 7.5-13.1) and for Gem+/-cisplatin 9.1 months (95%CI 7.0-11.2), p=0.098. On disease progression, 46 patients received second line CT (Gem or FP+/-platinum compounds). Median OS for patients with FP based first line and Gem+/-cisplatin in second line was 19 months (95%CI 8.9-29) higher than for the reverse sequence: 13.2 months (95%CI 12-14.4), but not statistically significant (p=0.830). All patients were evaluated for toxicities. Most patients (75.5%) reported at least one adverse event. Our results through direct comparison of FP+cisplatin with Gem+/-cisplatin as first line treatment did not show any statistical differences in terms of rate of response, PFS and OS. However, our study showed that FP+cisplatin as first line and Gem based second line therapy gave a better OS rate.

  19. The effects of transdermal rotigotine on non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease: a multicentre, observational, retrospective, post-marketing study.

    PubMed

    Valldeoriola, Francesc; Salvador, Antonio; Gómez-Arguelles, José Maria; Marey, José; Moya, Miguel; Ayuga, Ángel; Ramírez, Francisco

    2018-04-01

    This study evaluated the effect of ≥6 months of transdermal rotigotine on non-motor and motor symptoms of patients with advanced Parkinson's disease. The study was conducted in Spain between September 2011 and December 2012 (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01504529). The primary efficacy variable was the change from baseline in non-motor symptoms, as assessed by changes in Parkinson's Disease Non-Motor Symptoms Questionnaire total scores at 6 months. Secondary endpoints included the assessment of motor symptoms by Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale III scores. Data from 378 patients (mean age: 70.2 years; 56.9% male) with Parkinson's disease receiving rotigotine from were collected. Mean disease duration was 6.1 years, and mean rotigotine treatment duration was 45.6 months. Rotigotine reduced non-motor symptoms by 14.6% (mean change from baseline in Parkinson's Disease Non-Motor Symptoms Questionnaire: -1.5 ± 3.4; p < 0.0001). The majority of patients (58.2%) had improved non-motor symptoms at 6 months. Comparing the baseline versus study end, fewer patients experienced events in the urinary (78.6% vs. 73.3%; p = 0.0066), sleep (82.8% vs. 72.8%; p < 0.0001) and mood/cognition (77.3% vs. 66.4%; p < 0.0001) domains of the Parkinson's Disease Non-Motor Symptoms Questionnaire. Mean motor symptoms were reduced from baseline by 8.0% (mean change from baseline in Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale III: -2.6 ± 8.0; p < 0.0001). In clinical practice in Spain, rotigotine may be an effective treatment to reduce the non-motor and motor symptoms in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease.

  20. Quality of care provided in a special needs plan using a nurse care manager model.

    PubMed

    Wenger, Neil S; Roth, Carol P; Martin, David; Nickels, Lorraine; Beckman, Robin; Kamberg, Caren; Mach, John; Ganz, David A

    2011-10-01

    To comprehensively evaluate the quality of care provided in special needs plans (SNPs; Medicare Advantage plans that aim to provide specialized care for complex older adults) and specifically the nurse care management model in the community setting. We adapted 107 process-of-care quality measures across 12 conditions from the Assessing Care of Vulnerable Elders set to obtain a clinically detailed evaluation of the quality of care received by complex older enrollees in a dual eligible Evercare SNP. We abstracted 13 months of primary care medical records to delineate quality of care provided by physicians and whether there was value added from the nurse care manager model. Dual eligible Evercare SNP located in central Florida. Two-hundred thirty-one vulnerable older enrollees in the SNP who had complex disease. Based on physician medical records alone, the 231 high-risk participants (mean age 77, 67% women) received recommended care for 53% of 5,569 evaluated clinical circumstances, ranging from 12% for end-of-life care to 78% for diabetes mellitus. In fewer than 40% of these clinical circumstances was recommended care provided for dementia, falls, and urinary incontinence. In a second analysis accounting for care provided by both the Evercare nurse and the physician, recommended care was provided to patients in 69% of the 5,684 evaluated clinical circumstances. Comprehensive quality measurement applied to vulnerable older adults enrolled in one mature SNP showed that the Evercare nurse model addresses important deficits in physician care for geriatric conditions. Such measurement should be applied to other SNP models and to compare SNP care with that for complex, older, fee-for-service Medicare cohorts. © 2011, Copyright the Authors Journal compilation © 2011, The American Geriatrics Society.

  1. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Subtypes and Symptom Response in Adults Treated with Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate

    PubMed Central

    Mattingly, Greg; Weisler, Richard; Dirks, Bryan; Babcock, Thomas; Adeyi, Ben; Scheckner, Brian; Lasser, Robert

    2012-01-01

    Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate in adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptom subtypes who exhibit predominantly inattention, hyperactivity/ impulsivity, or combined symptom clusters. Design/Setting/Participants: This is a post-hoc analysis from a multicenter, one-year, open-label lisdexamfetamine dimesylate study in adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder previously completing two weeks or more in a four-week, randomized, placebo-controlled lisdexamfetamine dimesylate study, using Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale IV symptom ratings as an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder subtype proxy (N=349). Measurements: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale IV was measured at baseline of prior study and throughout the open-label study. Proxy subtypes were based on item scores of 2 (moderate) or 3 (severe), representing endorsement of at least six of nine symptoms on respective subscales; predominantly combined type endorsed at least six of nine symptoms on each subscale. Overall safety evaluations included treatment-emergent adverse events. Results: At baseline, 93 of 345 participants exhibited predominantly inattention, 13 predominantly hyperactivity/ impulsivity, 236 combined symptom clusters, and three were unassigned. For the three subgroups, respectively, mean (standard deviation) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scale IV total scores at baseline were 34.5 (4.02), 33.8 (3.27), and 43.6 (5.24); change from baseline to endpoint scores were -19.3 (9.48), -24.0 (7.22), and -27.3 (11.78). Mean (standard deviation) end-of-study lisdexamfetamine dimesylate dose was 57.7 (14.75), 53.1 (16.01), and 56.9 (14.94)mg/day, respectively. Treatment-emergent adverse events (>5%) were upper respiratory tract infection (21.8%), insomnia (19.5%), headache (17.2%), dry mouth (16.6%), decreased appetite (14.3%), irritability (11.2%), anxiety (8.3%), nasopharyngitis (7.4%), sinusitis (6.6%), decreased weight (6.0%), back pain (5.4%), and muscle spasms (5.2%). Conclusions: Lisdexamfetamine dimesylate was effective in participants with predominantly inattention, hyperactivity/ impulsivity, and combined attention deficit hyperactivity disorder symptom clusters. Groups exhibiting specific predominant subtype symptoms did not differ in clinical response to lisdexamfetamine dimesylate. PMID:22808446

  2. Polymorphisms of genes coding for ghrelin and its receptor in relation to colorectal cancer risk: a two-step gene-wide case-control study

    PubMed Central

    2010-01-01

    Background Ghrelin, an endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), has two major functions: the stimulation of the growth hormone production and the stimulation of food intake. Accumulating evidence also indicates a role of ghrelin in cancer development. Methods We conducted a case-control study to examine the association of common genetic variants in the genes coding for ghrelin (GHRL) and its receptor (GHSR) with colorectal cancer risk. Pairwise tagging was used to select the 11 polymorphisms included in the study. The selected polymorphisms were genotyped in 680 cases and 593 controls from the Czech Republic. Results We found two SNPs associated with lower risk of colorectal cancer, namely SNPs rs27647 and rs35683. We replicated the two hits, in additional 569 cases and 726 controls from Germany. Conclusion A joint analysis of the two populations indicated that the T allele of rs27647 SNP exerted a protective borderline effect (Ptrend = 0.004). PMID:20920174

  3. Polymorphisms of genes coding for ghrelin and its receptor in relation to colorectal cancer risk: a two-step gene-wide case-control study.

    PubMed

    Campa, Daniele; Pardini, Barbara; Naccarati, Alessio; Vodickova, Ludmila; Novotny, Jan; Steinke, Verena; Rahner, Nils; Holinski-Feder, Elke; Morak, Monika; Schackert, Hans K; Görgens, Heike; Kötting, Judith; Betz, Beate; Kloor, Matthias; Engel, Christoph; Büttner, Reinhard; Propping, Peter; Försti, Asta; Hemminki, Kari; Barale, Roberto; Vodicka, Pavel; Canzian, Federico

    2010-09-28

    Ghrelin, an endogenous ligand for the growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR), has two major functions: the stimulation of the growth hormone production and the stimulation of food intake. Accumulating evidence also indicates a role of ghrelin in cancer development. We conducted a case-control study to examine the association of common genetic variants in the genes coding for ghrelin (GHRL) and its receptor (GHSR) with colorectal cancer risk. Pairwise tagging was used to select the 11 polymorphisms included in the study. The selected polymorphisms were genotyped in 680 cases and 593 controls from the Czech Republic. We found two SNPs associated with lower risk of colorectal cancer, namely SNPs rs27647 and rs35683. We replicated the two hits, in additional 569 cases and 726 controls from Germany. A joint analysis of the two populations indicated that the T allele of rs27647 SNP exerted a protective borderline effect (Ptrend = 0.004).

  4. DNA sensors to assess the effect of VKORC1 and CYP2C9 gene polymorphisms on warfarin dose requirement in Chinese patients with atrial fibrillation.

    PubMed

    Huang, Tao-Sheng; Zhang, Ling; He, Qiong; Li, Yu-Bin; Dai, Zhong-Li; Zheng, Jian-Rui; Cheng, Pei-Qi; He, Yun-Shao

    2017-03-01

    The optimal dose of warfarin depends on polymorphisms in the VKORC1 (the vitamin K epoxide reductase complex subunit (1) and CYP2C9 (cytochrome P450 2C9) genes. To minimize the risk of adverse reactions, warfarin dosages should be adjusted according to results from rapid and simple monitoring methods. However, there are few pharmacogenetic-guided warfarin dosing algorithms that are based on large cohorts from the Chinese population, especially patients with atrial fibrillation. This study aimed to validate a pharmacogenetic-guided warfarin dosing algorithm based on results from a new rapid electrochemical detection method used in a multicenter study. Three SNPs (CYP2C9 *2, *3 and VKORC1 c.-1639G > A) were genotyped by electrochemical detection using a sandwich-type format that included a 3' short thiol capture probe and a 5' ferrocene-labeled signal probe. A total of 1285 samples from four clinical hospitals were evaluated. Concordance rates between the results from the electrochemical DNA biosensor and the sequencing test were 99.8%. The results for gene distribution showed that most Chinese patients had higher warfarin susceptibility because mutant-type and heterozygotes were present in the majority of subjects (99.4%) at locus c.-1639G > A. When the International Warfarin Pharmacogenetics Consortium algorithm was used to estimate therapeutic dosages for 362 patients with AF and the values were compared with their actual dosages, the results revealed that 56.9% were similar to actual dosages (within the 20% range). A novel electrochemical detection method of CYP2C9 *2, *3and VKORC1 c.-1639G > A alleles was evaluated. The warfarin dosing algorithm based on data gathered from a large patient cohort can facilitate the reasonable and effective use of warfarin in Chinese patients with AF.

  5. Feasibility and effects of a combined adjuvant high-intensity interval/strength training in breast cancer patients: a single-center pilot study.

    PubMed

    Schulz, Sebastian Viktor Waldemar; Laszlo, Roman; Otto, Stephanie; Prokopchuk, Dmytro; Schumann, Uwe; Ebner, Florian; Huober, Jens; Steinacker, Jürgen Michael

    2018-06-01

    To evaluate feasibility of an exercise intervention consisting of high-intensity interval endurance and strength training in breast cancer patients. Twenty-six women with nonmetastatic breast cancer were consecutively assigned to the exercise intervention- (n= 15, mean age 51.9 ± 9.8 years) and the control group (n = 11, mean age 56.9 ± 7.0 years). Cardiopulmonary exercise testing that included lactate sampling, one-repetition maximum tests and a HADS-D questionnaire were used to monitor patients both before and after a supervised six weeks period of either combined high-intensity interval endurance and strength training (intervention group, twice a week) or leisure training (control group). Contrarily to the control group, endurance (mean change of VO 2 , peak 12.0 ± 13.0%) and strength performance (mean change of cumulative load 25.9 ± 11.2%) and quality of life increased in the intervention group. No training-related adverse events were observed. Our guided exercise intervention could be used effectively for initiation and improvement of performance capacity and quality of life in breast cancer patients in a relatively short time. This might be especially attractive during medical treatment. Long-term effects have to be evaluated in randomized controlled studies also with a longer follow-up. Implications for Rehabilitation High-intensity interval training allows improvement of aerobic capacity within a comparable short time. Standard leisure training in breast cancer patients is rather suitable for the maintenance of performance capacity and quality of life. Guided high-intensity interval training combined with strength training can be used effectively for the improvement of endurance and strength capacity and also quality of life. After exclusion of contraindications, guided adjuvant high-intensity interval training combined with strength training can be safely used in breast cancer patients.

  6. Experiments on the Biological Action of Neutrons Performed in the Former Soviet Union: A Historical Review

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-10-01

    Exposed to x-rays and Fission Neutrons at Different Stages of Postnatal Development. Radio- biologia , 1982, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 76-81. 10. Bogatyrev A.V...Cyclotron U-120. Radio- biologia , vol. 24, no. 4, pp. 567-569, 1986. 17. Dokshina G.A., Naumenko L.A., Effect of Mixed Gamma-Neutron Radia- tion on...in Drosophila Spermatogenesis on Dose from Fast Neutrons. Radio- biologia , v. 2, no. 3, pp. 420-421, 1963. 4. Alexandrov I.D., Different RBE for Gene

  7. Experiments on the Biological Actions of Neutrons Performed in the Former Soviet Union: A Historical Review

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2006-10-01

    Radio- biologia , 1982, vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 76-81. 10. Bogatyrev A.V., Timoshenko S.I., Lavrova G.A., Nikanorova N.G., Kalmykova G.I., Sverdlov A.G., On...Chernichenko V.A., Cytogenetic Effectiveness of the Therapeutic Fast Neutron Beam Emitted by Cyclotron U-120. Radio- biologia , vol. 24, no. 4, pp. 567-569, 1986...Dependence of Recessive Sex-Linked Lethal Mu- tations in Drosophila Spermatogenesis on Dose from Fast Neutrons. Radio- biologia , v. 2, no. 3, pp. 420-421

  8. Demonstration of a Retrofit Corrosion-Resistant Fire Hydrant Which Also Protects Against Deliberate Contamination of Critical Army Water Supplies

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2010-02-01

    0.4 Sodium Cyanide 3.7 Fast acting, readily available Sodium Fluoroacetate 1.7 Tasteless, Colorless, Odorless Thallium Nitrate 3.4 Sarin 1 VX 0.15 L iq...TurbChlor TOC 1080 Aflatoxin Cyanide "VX" BUILDING STRONG®27 Beijing Olympics  GuardianBlue Systems selected for securing drinking water during the...Closed BUILDING STRONG®54 Features 304 Stainless Replacement Stem, Tensile Strength 80 Ksi E Coated Sleeve/Seat 11 ga, A-569 Hot Rolled Steel

  9. Water-resources investigations in Wisconsin, 1999

    USGS Publications Warehouse

    Maertz, D. E.

    1999-01-01

    Low flows occurred at 21 gaging stations where the annual minimum 7-consecutive day average flows (Q7) had recurrence intervals of 5 or more years. Precipitation was well below normal from July through September in northern Wisconsin. Monthly precipitation values were 4.46, 5.69, and 4.24 inches below normal in northwestern, north central, and northeastern Wisconsin, respectively, in the July through September period (from tables provided by Lyle Anderson, Program Assistant, UW-Extension, Geological and Natural History Survey, written commun., 1999). The precipitation for the April to October period was

  10. Fast Parallel Tree Codes for Gravitational and Fluid Dynamical N-Body Problems

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-01-01

    The particles represent the so-called " Dark Matter " eral times the the full message latency for every remote which is believed to dominate the mass...Katz, L. Herquist, and D. H. Weinberg. Galax- R. Acad. Sci. Paris, 306(I):739-742, 1988. ies and gas in a cold dark matter universe. Ap. J., [111 A...57(3):566-569, 1983. dark matter halos. Ap. J., 378:496, 1991. [30] G. Pedrizzetti. Insight into singular vortex flows. [17] C. C. Dyer and P. S. S

  11. XRF and XANES Data for Kaplan U Paper

    EPA Pesticide Factsheets

    The dataset contains two XRF images of iron and uranium distribution on plant roots and a database of XANES data used to produce XANES spectra figure for Figure 7 in the published paper.This dataset is associated with the following publication:Kaplan, D., R. Kukkadapu, J. Seaman, B. Arey, A. Dohnalkova, S. Buettner, D. Li, T. Varga, K. Scheckel, and P. Jaffe. Iron Mineralogy and Uranium-Binding Environment in the Rhizosphere of a Wetland Soil. D. Barcelo SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT. Elsevier BV, AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS, 569: 53-64, (2016).

  12. Surface Observation Climatic Summaries (SOCS) for Hanau AAF, Germany

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1992-03-01

    COVER CEILING VS VISIDILITY--POP (PNDN HOURLY 038)....................... D-2-1 S"Y CUME--POP (P1FRO DOURLY 018)................................. .. D-3...PART. SPECIFIED PHENOMENA VS WIND DIRECTION--PERCENT OCCURRENCE FREQUENCY. THESE TABLES INCLUDE SUMHARY OF MONTH FOR ALL HORS AIM YEAR COMBINED. WIND...TOTAL FISCIP PRCIP FISCIP PCWIP &/OR sym &/OR 093? 1NO. or EauE SAND TO VS ORB JW .0 13.9 .S 5.4 19.9 35.9 3.2 56.9 3140 mU .1 6.9 a.0 16.9 27.1 16.3

  13. Historical Review of Emergency Tourniquet Use to Stop Bleeding

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2012-02-01

    comment to, “More lives have been lost than were ever saved by the use of the tourniquet.”49 Watson- Jones concluded that the emergency tourniquet was a dan...in major limb trauma. J Trauma 2008;64: S38–50. 21. Kragh JF Jr, Littrel ML, Jones JA, et al. Battle casualty survival with emergency tourniquet use...Watson- Jones . J Bone Joint Surg 1972;54B:569–75. 48. Watson- Jones R. Fractures and Joint Injuries. London: Livingstone; 1955:121–2. 49. Watson- Jones R

  14. Sequence of retrovirus provirus resembles that of bacterial transposable elements

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shimotohno, Kunitada; Mizutani, Satoshi; Temin, Howard M.

    1980-06-01

    The nucleotide sequences of the terminal regions of an infectious integrated retrovirus cloned in the modified λ phage cloning vector Charon 4A have been elucidated. There is a 569-base pair direct repeat at both ends of the viral DNA. The cell-virus junctions at each end consist of a 5-base pair direct repeat of cell DNA next to a 3-base pair inverted repeat of viral DNA. This structure resembles that of a transposable element and is consistent with the protovirus hypothesis that retroviruses evolved from the cell genome.

  15. Aircraft Engine Emissions Estimator

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1985-11-01

    GE) 4 A-4 C-9A JT8D-9 (P&W) 2 A-5 C-12A PT6A-41 (P&W) 2 C-21A TFE731 -2 (GARRETT) 2 C-130A T 56-9 (ALLISON) 4 A-6 C-130B T 56-7 (ALLISON) 4 A-6 C-130...OA 0.52N MILITARY 1.06A 8.42A I.SA 0.2A 21.OA 0.67N TFE731 -2 IDLE (CA) APPROACH NO DATA AVAILABLE :NTERMED MILITARY * A-X represents the reference

  16. Effect of addition of coconut water (Cocos nucifera) to the freezing media on post-thaw viability of boar sperm.

    PubMed

    Bottini-Luzardo, María; Centurión-Castro, Fernando; Alfaro-Gamboa, Militza; Aké-López, Ricardo; Herrera-Camacho, José

    2013-01-01

    The aims of this experiment were to evaluate the addition of coconut water in natura to the freezing media, compare the effect of deionized water vs filtered water of coconut over the post-thaw seminal characteristics, and evaluate the effect of the deionized water and in natura coconut water on the seminal characteristics of boar sperm at different post-thaw times. Thirty-four ejaculates were used divided in three aliquots which received one of the following treatments (T): T1, LEY (bidistilled water, lactose, and egg yolk) and LEYGO (LEY + glycerol and Orvus ET paste); T2, LEY(A) (coconut deionized water, lactose, and egg yolk)-LEYGO(A); and T3, LEY(B) (in natura coconut water, lactose, and egg yolk)-LEYGO(B). Samples of boar semen were frozen according to the Westendorf method, thawed at 38°C, and evaluated at three incubation times (0, 30, and 60 min). Seminal characteristics assessed were motility (Mot), acrosomal integrity (AInt), membrane integrity (MInt), and mitochondrial activity (MAct). T1 showed a higher percentage of viable sperm than T3 (Mot 36.5 vs 5.4 %, AInt 61.8 vs 41.2 %, MInt 50.4 vs 41.3 %, and MAct 56.9 vs 50.5 %). T2 kept a higher percentage of viable sperm at all incubation times. In natura coconut water showed a detrimental effect over the viability of the frozen-thawed boar semen. Deionized coconut water improved the boar semen viability post-thaw, outperforming results of in natura coconut water.

  17. Evaluation of a Human Factors Analysis and Classification System as used by simulated mishap boards.

    PubMed

    O'Connor, Paul; Walker, Peter

    2011-01-01

    The reliability of the Department of Defense Human Factors Analysis and Classification System (DOD-HFACS) has been examined when used by individuals working alone to classify the causes of summary, or partial, information about a mishap. However, following an actual mishap a team of investigators would work together to gather and analyze a large amount of information before identifying the causal factors and coding them with DOD-HFACS. There were 204 military Aviation Safety Officer students who were divided into 30 groups. Each group was provided with evidence collected from one of two military aviation mishaps. DOD-HFACS was used to classify the mishap causal factors. Averaged across the two mishaps, acceptable levels of reliability were only achieved for 56.9% of nanocodes. There were high levels of agreement regarding the factors that did not contribute to the incident (a mean agreement of 50% or greater between groups for 91.0% of unselected nanocodes); the level of agreement on the factors that did cause the incident as classified using DOD-HFACS were low (a mean agreement of 50% or greater between the groups for 14.6% of selected nanocodes). Despite using teams to carry out the classification, the findings from this study are consistent with other studies of DOD-HFACS reliability with individuals. It is suggested that in addition to simplifying DOD-HFACS itself, consideration should be given to involving a human factors/organizational psychologist in mishap investigations to ensure the human factors issues are identified and classified in a consistent and reliable manner.

  18. The PROPKD Score: A New Algorithm to Predict Renal Survival in Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease.

    PubMed

    Cornec-Le Gall, Emilie; Audrézet, Marie-Pierre; Rousseau, Annick; Hourmant, Maryvonne; Renaudineau, Eric; Charasse, Christophe; Morin, Marie-Pascale; Moal, Marie-Christine; Dantal, Jacques; Wehbe, Bassem; Perrichot, Régine; Frouget, Thierry; Vigneau, Cécile; Potier, Jérôme; Jousset, Philippe; Guillodo, Marie-Paule; Siohan, Pascale; Terki, Nazim; Sawadogo, Théophile; Legrand, Didier; Menoyo-Calonge, Victorio; Benarbia, Seddik; Besnier, Dominique; Longuet, Hélène; Férec, Claude; Le Meur, Yannick

    2016-03-01

    The course of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) varies among individuals, with some reaching ESRD before 40 years of age and others never requiring RRT. In this study, we developed a prognostic model to predict renal outcomes in patients with ADPKD on the basis of genetic and clinical data. We conducted a cross-sectional study of 1341 patients from the Genkyst cohort and evaluated the influence of clinical and genetic factors on renal survival. Multivariate survival analysis identified four variables that were significantly associated with age at ESRD onset, and a scoring system from 0 to 9 was developed as follows: being male: 1 point; hypertension before 35 years of age: 2 points; first urologic event before 35 years of age: 2 points; PKD2 mutation: 0 points; nontruncating PKD1 mutation: 2 points; and truncating PKD1 mutation: 4 points. Three risk categories were subsequently defined as low risk (0-3 points), intermediate risk (4-6 points), and high risk (7-9 points) of progression to ESRD, with corresponding median ages for ESRD onset of 70.6, 56.9, and 49 years, respectively. Whereas a score ≤3 eliminates evolution to ESRD before 60 years of age with a negative predictive value of 81.4%, a score >6 forecasts ESRD onset before 60 years of age with a positive predictive value of 90.9%. This new prognostic score accurately predicts renal outcomes in patients with ADPKD and may enable the personalization of therapeutic management of ADPKD. Copyright © 2016 by the American Society of Nephrology.

  19. Mouth self-examination in a population at risk of oral cancer.

    PubMed

    Jornet, P López; Garcia, F J Gómez; Berdugo, M Lucero; Perez, F Parra; Lopez, A Pons-Fuster

    2015-03-01

    Cancer of the oral cavity is a public health problem and many cases are not diagnosed until the disease has reached an advanced stage. The aim of this study was to initiate an educational programme in self-examination for patients at risk from oral cancer. This quasi-experimental study set out to initiate an educational programme in self-examination for patients at risk from oral cancer, assessing the outcomes after three months. In individual 15-minute face-to-face sessions, patients were given information and training in oral cancer risk factors and then verbal instructions as how to carry out oral self-examination. Three months later, patients were interviewed by telephone and asked if they had carried out self-examination independently at home. The programme was evaluated by means of a health belief model questionnaire on perceived susceptibility (3 items), severity (8 items), benefits (4 items), barriers (8 items) and efficacy (6 items). Eighty-six patients (37 females [43.1%] and 49 males [56.9%]) with a mean age of 58.60±10.7 completed the oral self-examination programme. Logistic regression analysis indicated that patients who felt themselves subject to susceptibility (OR: 0.03 95% CI: 0.0-0.86; p<0.04), severity (OR 0.23 95% 0.08-0.68; p<0.008) and benefits (OR 0.11 95% 0.02-0.63; p<0.013) were more likely to perform self-examination. Training programmes in oral self-examination are needed to decrease morbidity and mortality from oral cancer. © 2015 Australian Dental Association.

  20. Efficacy of intramammary tilmicosin and risk factors for cure of Staphylococcus aureus infection in the dry period.

    PubMed

    Dingwell, R T; Leslie, K E; Duffield, T F; Schukken, Y H; DesCoteaux, L; Keefe, G P; Kelton, D F; Lissemore, K D; Shewfelt, W; Dick, P; Bagg, R

    2003-01-01

    The objective ofthis study was to evaluate the efficacy of intramammary tilmicosin, administered at drying-off, for eliminating Staphylococcus aureus infection, and to identify risk factors for S. aureus cure during the dry period. A total of 219 naturally infected cows, representing 308 quarters, were randomized to receive either one of two treatments at drying-off. Cows received either an intramammary infusion of 500 mg of benzathine cloxacillin, or a sterile solution containing 1,500 mg of tilmicosin. All cows had quarter milk samples taken aseptically three times before dry-off, and at wk 1, 2, and 4 of the subsequent lactation. Overall, 62% of cows and 67.5% of quarters infected with S. aureus cured during the dry period. The cure following administraton of tilmicosin was 67.3 and 72.5% for cows and quarters, respectively. By comparison, the cure achieved with cloxacillin was 56.9 and 62.9% of cows and quarters. Cows receiving tilmicosin were 2.1 times more likely to cure. The cure rate for cows decreased as the linear score on the last DHI test increased, and as the amount of S. aureus being shed increased. Quarters that cultured positive multiple times before drying-off were less likely to cure. Staphylococcus aureus infections located in front quarters of the udder were 2 times more likely to cure than those in hind quarters. Results of this study demonstrate that intramammary tilmicosin at drying-off is efficacious in curing existing S. aureus during the dry period. Risk factors associated with the cure of S. aureus were identified.

  1. The relationship of serum cortisol levels with depression, cognitive function and sleep disorders in chronic kidney disease and hemodialysis patients.

    PubMed

    Afsar, Baris

    2014-12-01

    In the present study, the relationships between cortisol, cognitive function, depressive behavior, and sleep quality in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and hemodialysis (HD) patients was investigated. Patients underwent history taking, physical examination, biochemical analysis, 24-h urine collection (for CKD patients only), measurement of dialysis adequacy (for HD patients only), evaluation of cognitive function, depressive behavior and sleep quality. Among study participants 58 had creatinine clearance ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (Group 1), 41 had creatinine clearance between 30 and 59 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (Group 2), 25 had creatinine clearance between 15 and 29 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (Group 3) and 12 had creatinine clearance <15 mL/min/1.73 m(2) (Group 4). 38 patients were regular HD patients (Group 5). The cortisol levels in Group 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 patients were 472.3 ± 138.4, 490.2 ± 214.3, 541.6 ± 172.8, 569.9 ± 101.0 and 637.8 ± 153.7 nmol/L, respectively (P < 0.0001 for trend). In both non-dialysis patient group and dialysis patients linear regression analysis showed that cortisol was independently related with Beck depression inventory (BDI) score (P: 0.013 and 0.001, respectively) but not with cognitive function and sleep quality. In conclusion serum cortisol levels were independently associated with depressive behavior both in CKD and HD patients but not with cognitive function and sleep quality.

  2. Pulsed radiofrequency for chronic intractable lumbosacral radicular pain: a six-month cohort study.

    PubMed

    Van Boxem, Koen; de Meij, Nelleke; Kessels, Alfons; Van Kleef, Maarten; Van Zundert, Jan

    2015-06-01

    There is little evidence concerning the medical management of lumbosacral radicular pain. The prognosis for patients suffering pain for more than 3 months is poor. Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) treatment of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) has been suggested as a minimally invasive treatment. We studied the effect on pain and quality of life of PRF treatment of the DRG in patients with chronic, severe lumbosacral radicular pain. Patients with lumbosacral radicular pain were screened to select a homogeneous population. PRF treatment of the DRG was performed at L5 or S1. Evaluation was carried out at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. Pain reduction and "fully recovered" or "much improvement," in terms of the global perceived effect, were the primary outcomes. Quality of life (RAND-36), disability (Oswestry Disability Index), and the neuropathic pain scales leeds assessment of neuropathic symptoms and signs (LANSS) and DN4 were registered at each time point. Medication use was scored with the Medication Quantification Scale. Out of 461 screened patients, 65 were included. According to the intention to treat analysis, clinical success was achieved in 56.9%, 52.3%, and 55.4% of the patients at respectively 6 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months. DN4, Oswestry Disability Index and physical component for the RAND-36 quality of life improved significantly while the mental component remained unchanged. The number of patients on opioids was reduced. PRF treatment of the DRG may be considered for patients with chronic, severe lumbosacral radicular pain refractory to conventional medical management. Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  3. Down syndrome in diverse populations.

    PubMed

    Kruszka, Paul; Porras, Antonio R; Sobering, Andrew K; Ikolo, Felicia A; La Qua, Samantha; Shotelersuk, Vorasuk; Chung, Brian H Y; Mok, Gary T K; Uwineza, Annette; Mutesa, Leon; Moresco, Angélica; Obregon, María Gabriela; Sokunbi, Ogochukwu Jidechukwu; Kalu, Nnenna; Joseph, Daniel Akinsanya; Ikebudu, Desmond; Ugwu, Christopher Emeka; Okoromah, Christy A N; Addissie, Yonit A; Pardo, Katherine L; Brough, J Joseph; Lee, Ni-Chung; Girisha, Katta M; Patil, Siddaramappa Jagdish; Ng, Ivy S L; Min, Breana Cham Wen; Jamuar, Saumya S; Tibrewal, Shailja; Wallang, Batriti; Ganesh, Suma; Sirisena, Nirmala D; Dissanayake, Vajira H W; Paththinige, C Sampath; Prabodha, L B Lahiru; Richieri-Costa, Antonio; Muthukumarasamy, Premala; Thong, Meow-Keong; Jones, Kelly L; Abdul-Rahman, Omar A; Ekure, Ekanem Nsikak; Adeyemo, Adebowale A; Summar, Marshall; Linguraru, Marius George; Muenke, Maximilian

    2017-01-01

    Down syndrome is the most common cause of cognitive impairment and presents clinically with universally recognizable signs and symptoms. In this study, we focus on exam findings and digital facial analysis technology in individuals with Down syndrome in diverse populations. Photos and clinical information were collected on 65 individuals from 13 countries, 56.9% were male and the average age was 6.6 years (range 1 month to 26 years; SD = 6.6 years). Subjective findings showed that clinical features were different across ethnicities (Africans, Asians, and Latin Americans), including brachycephaly, ear anomalies, clinodactyly, sandal gap, and abundant neck skin, which were all significantly less frequent in Africans (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.05, and P < 0.05, respectively). Evaluation using a digital facial analysis technology of a larger diverse cohort of newborns to adults (n = 129 cases; n = 132 controls) was able to diagnose Down syndrome with a sensitivity of 0.961, specificity of 0.924, and accuracy of 0.943. Only the angles at medial canthus and ala of the nose were common significant findings amongst different ethnicities (Caucasians, Africans, and Asians) when compared to ethnically matched controls. The Asian group had the least number of significant digital facial biometrics at 4, compared to Caucasians at 8 and Africans at 7. In conclusion, this study displays the wide variety of findings across different geographic populations in Down syndrome and demonstrates the accuracy and promise of digital facial analysis technology in the diagnosis of Down syndrome internationally. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

  4. Increasing Prevalence of Pediatric Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis in Mumbai, India and its Outcome.

    PubMed

    Shah, Miti A; Shah, Ira

    2018-03-24

    B.J.Wadia Hospital,Mumbai OBJECTIVE:: The prevalence and type of DR-TB was evaluated pre and post-2013 and outcome was studied. Descriptive retrospective study. Children were defined as having DR-TB on the basis of GeneXpert or LPA and/or drug susceptibility testing(DST) of MTB grown on culture or from contact's DST. The prevalence of DR-TB was 110 out of 1145 cases (9.6%) which showed an increase, compared to 5.6% pre-2010 and 7% in 2010-2013(p=0.014408). Twenty-two (20%) children had pulmonary-TB(PTB) and 88(80%) had extra-pulmonary-TB(EPTB) with disseminated-TB being the most common presentation in 31 children (28.18%). Ninety-six (87.3%) children were bacteriologically confirmed TB cases and 14 (12.7%) were clinically diagnosed-TB and treated as per contact DST. Eight (7.2%) cases were monoresistant, 7 (6.3%) polyresistant, MDR-TB seen in 28 (25.45%) patients, 32 (29.09%) had pre-XDR-TB, 9 (8.18%) had XDR-TB and 12 (10.9%) were rifampicin resistant. Ethionamide resistance increased from 26.1% pre-2013 to 60.8% post-2013(p=0.014408) and ofloxacin resistance rose from 30.4% pre-2010, to 47.6% in 2010-2013 and 56.9% post-2013(p=0.080863). Moxifloxacin resistance showed an acute rise from 8.7% pre-2010, to 46% in 2010-2013 and 57% post-2013(p=0.000275). Thirty-three (30%) patients had completed their treatment, 21(19.09%) were lost to follow up and 56(50.09%) patients are still on treatment.

  5. Italian survey on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and gastrointestinal bleeding in children.

    PubMed

    Cardile, Sabrina; Martinelli, Massimo; Barabino, Arrigo; Gandullia, Paolo; Oliva, Salvatore; Di Nardo, Giovanni; Dall'Oglio, Luigi; Rea, Francesca; de'Angelis, Gian Luigi; Bizzarri, Barbara; Guariso, Graziella; Masci, Enzo; Staiano, Annamaria; Miele, Erasmo; Romano, Claudio

    2016-02-07

    To investigate gastrointestinal complications associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) use in children. A retrospective, multicenter study was conducted between January 2005 and January 2013, with the participation of 8 Italian pediatric gastroenterology centers. We collected all the cases of patients who refer to emergency room for suspected gastrointestinal bleeding following NSAIDs consumption, and underwent endoscopic evaluation. Previous medical history, associated risk factors, symptoms and signs at presentation, diagnostic procedures, severity of bleeding and management of gastrointestinal bleeding were collected. In addition, data regarding type of drug used, indication, dose, duration of treatment and prescriber (physician or self-medication) were examined. Fifty-one patients, including 34 males, were enrolled (median age: 7.8 years). Ibuprofen was the most used NSAID [35/51 patients (68.6%)]. Pain was the most frequent indication for NSAIDs use [29/51 patients (56.9%)]. Seven patients had positive family history of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection or peptic ulcer, and 12 had associated comorbidities. Twenty-four (47%) out of 51 patients used medication inappropriately. Hematemesis was the most frequent symptom (33.3%). Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed gastric lesions in 32/51 (62%) patients, duodenal lesions in 17 (33%) and esophageal lesions in 8 (15%). In 10/51 (19.6%) patients, a diagnosis of H. pylori gastritis was made. Forty-eight (94%) patients underwent medical therapy, with spontaneous bleeding resolution, while in 3/51 (6%) patients, an endoscopic hemostasis was needed. The data collected in this study confirms that adverse events with the involvement of the gastrointestinal tract secondary to NSAID use are also common in children.

  6. [The occurrence of aeromonads in a drinking water supply system].

    PubMed

    Stelzer, W; Jacob, J; Feuerpfeil, I; Schulze, E

    1992-01-01

    This study concerns with the occurrence of aeromonads, coliforms and colony counts in a drinking water supply. Aeromonas contents were detected in the range of 15.0 to greater than 2,400/100 ml in the raw water samples of the man made lake. After the drinking water treatment process including fast sand filtration and chlorination aeromonads indicated in comparison to total coliforms and colony counts early and significant an after-growth of maximal 240 aeromonads/100 ml in the peripheric drinking water supply. Drinking water samples characterized by a higher water temperature resulted in the highest contents of aeromonads. The Aeromonas-Species Aeromonas sobria and Aeromonas hydrophila were isolated most frequently with 56.9 and 37.4 percent, respectively. The role of aeromonads as an indicator of after-growth in drinking water supplies is discussed.

  7. A radio-education intervention to improve maternal knowledge of obstetric danger signs.

    PubMed

    Radoff, Kari A; Levi, Amy J; Thompson, Lisa M

    2013-10-01

    To examine whether a radio-education intervention (REI) is associated with improved maternal knowledge of pregnancy danger signs (PDS) in Nicaragua. This cross-sectional pilot study used pretests and posttests to evaluate whether an REI was associated with improved knowledge of PDS among 77 pregnant and postpartum women in Nicaragua. The total number of PDS identified by study participants increased from 130 before the intervention to 200 after the intervention, an increase of 53.8% (Wilcoxon signed-rank test (z) = -4.18; P < 0.00001). The three PDS for which participant knowledge increased significantly after the intervention were 1) swelling of the face and hands, 2) convulsions, and 3) vaginal bleeding. Participants who 1) reported having a sister who had experienced a pregnancy complication, 2) lived in an urban setting, and 3) had more than a sixth-grade education were significantly more likely to score higher on posttests related to knowledge of PDS than those without those attributes (90.9% versus 56.9% [Χ² (degrees of freedom) = 4.60 (1); P = 0.043; n = 76]; 75% versus 45.9% [Χ² = 6.8 (1); P = 0.009; n = 77]; and 62.5% (12+ years education) versus 79.3% (6-12 years) versus 50.0% (0-6 years education) versus 25.0% (no education) [Χ² = 8.11 (1); P = 0.044; n = 77] respectively). Exposure to the REI was associated with a significant increase in the ability to identify PDS. Further studies should establish whether this increase in knowledge of PDS is associated with increases in use of maternity care services and decreases in delays in seeking care.

  8. Differences in the clinical presentation and the frequency of complications between elderly and non-elderly scrub typhus patients.

    PubMed

    Jang, Mi-Ok; Kim, Ji Eun; Kim, Uh Jin; Ahn, Joon Hwan; Kang, Seung-Ji; Jang, Hee-Chang; Jung, Sook-In; Park, Kyung-Hwa

    2014-01-01

    Age can affect the clinical features and severity of infectious disorders, such as scrub typhus. We performed this study to examine differences between elderly and non-elderly scrub typhus patients, and to identify risk factors predictive of disease outcomes. This retrospective study included patients admitted to a tertiary hospital with scrub typhus between 2001 and 2011. A total of 615 patients were enrolled in this study, 328 of which were >65 years of age. Of the elderly patients, 46.0% (151/328) experienced at least one complication compared to only 23.0% (66/287) in younger patients. A linear trend was observed between age and complication rates (p=0.002). The most common complication in elderly patients was acute kidney injury (75, 22.9%). Treatment failure was reported in 10 elderly patients (3.0%) compared to one non-elderly patient (0.3%). Mental confusion and dyspnea of clinical manifestations at admission were common in elderly patients. Frequency of fever, rash, and eschar were similar in both groups. The following four factors were significantly associated with severe scrub typhus in elderly patients: (1) white blood cell (WBC) counts>10,000/mm(3) (OR=2.569, CI=1.298-5.086), (2) MDRD GFR<60mL/min (OR=3.525, CI=1.864-6.667), (3) albumin≤3.0g/dL (OR=4.976, CI=2.664-9.294), and (4) acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) score>10 points (OR=3.304, CI=1.793-60.87). Complications and mortality were more common in elderly patients, often associated with delays in diagnosis and treatment. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

  9. Effect of piracetam on the cognitive performance of patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery: A meta-analysis

    PubMed Central

    FANG, YU; QIU, ZHANDONG; HU, WENTAO; YANG, JIA; YI, XIYAN; HUANG, LIANGJIANG; ZHANG, SUMING

    2014-01-01

    Cognitive impairments are observed in numerous patients following coronary bypass surgery, and piracetam are nootropic compounds that modulate cerebral functions by directly enhancing cognitive processes. The present meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the protective effect of piracetam on the cognitive performance of patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery. The relevant studies were identified by searching Medline, EMBASE, PubMed and the Cochrane Library up to June 2013 and the pertinent bibliographies from the retrieved studies were reviewed. Data were selected from the studies according to predefined criteria. The meta-analysis included two randomized control trials involving 184 patients and including the Syndrom-Kurz test (SKT). Findings of the meta-analysis showed that following treatment the change from baseline observed in five SKT subtest scores, conducted with piracetam patients, indicated a significant advantage over those patients that were in the placebo group. The subtests included immediate pictured object recall, weighted mean difference (WMD)=0.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.51–1.31, P<0.00001; delayed pictured object recall, WMD=0.74, 95% CI 0.19–1.28, P=0.008; delayed picture recognition, WMD=0.82, 95% CI 0.31–1.31, P=0.001; immediate word recall, WMD=0.87, 95% CI 0.47–1.28, P<0.0001; and letter interference, WMD=3.46, 95% CI −5.69 to −1.23, P=0.002. These results indicated that piracetam may have been effective in improving the short-term cognitive performance of patients undergoing coronary bypass surgery. High quality, well-controlled and longer randomized trials are required to corroborate this result. PMID:24396419

  10. Potential impact of a nonavalent HPV vaccine on HPV related low-and high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesions: A referral hospital-based study in Sicily

    PubMed Central

    Capra, Giuseppina; Giovannelli, Lucia; Matranga, Domenica; Bellavia, Carmelina; Guarneri, Maria Francesca; Fasciana, Teresa; Scaduto, Giovanna; Firenze, Alberto; Vassiliadis, Alessandra; Perino, Antonio

    2017-01-01

    ABSTRACT While bivalent and quadrivalent HPV vaccines have been used for about 10 years, a nonavalent vaccine against HPV types 6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52 and 58 has been recently approved by FDA and EMA and is now commercially available. The objective of our study was to evaluate the potential impact of the nonavalent vaccine on HPV infection and related low- and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL, HSIL), compared to the impact of the quadrivalent vaccine, in a female population living in Sicily (Italy). Low estimates of HPV vaccine impact were calculated as prevalence of HPV 6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52 and 58 genotypes, alone or in association, but excluding presence of other HPV types; high estimates were calculated as prevalence of HPV 6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52 and 58 genotypes alone or in association, in the presence of other HPV types. The nonavalent HPV vaccine showed increased impact, compared to the quadrivalent vaccine. Estimates of potential impact varied from 30.9% (low estimate) to 53.3% (high estimate) for LSIL, and from 56.9% to 81,0% for HSIL. The proportion of additional cases potentially prevented by the nonavalent vaccine was 14.4%–23.8% for LSIL, and 19.0%–32.8% for HSIL. The benefit of the nonavalent vaccine compared to the quadrivalent vaccine was more than 80% for both low and high impact estimates for LSIL and more than 50% for both low and high impact estimates for HSIL. The present study confirms that the switch from a first generation HPV vaccines to a nonavalent vaccine would increase the prevention of cervical HSIL in up to 90% of cases. PMID:28594305

  11. Potential impact of a nonavalent HPV vaccine on HPV related low-and high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesions: A referral hospital-based study in Sicily.

    PubMed

    Capra, Giuseppina; Giovannelli, Lucia; Matranga, Domenica; Bellavia, Carmelina; Guarneri, Maria Francesca; Fasciana, Teresa; Scaduto, Giovanna; Firenze, Alberto; Vassiliadis, Alessandra; Perino, Antonio

    2017-08-03

    While bivalent and quadrivalent HPV vaccines have been used for about 10 years, a nonavalent vaccine against HPV types 6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52 and 58 has been recently approved by FDA and EMA and is now commercially available. The objective of our study was to evaluate the potential impact of the nonavalent vaccine on HPV infection and related low- and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL, HSIL), compared to the impact of the quadrivalent vaccine, in a female population living in Sicily (Italy). Low estimates of HPV vaccine impact were calculated as prevalence of HPV 6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52 and 58 genotypes, alone or in association, but excluding presence of other HPV types; high estimates were calculated as prevalence of HPV 6/11/16/18/31/33/45/52 and 58 genotypes alone or in association, in the presence of other HPV types. The nonavalent HPV vaccine showed increased impact, compared to the quadrivalent vaccine. Estimates of potential impact varied from 30.9% (low estimate) to 53.3% (high estimate) for LSIL, and from 56.9% to 81,0% for HSIL. The proportion of additional cases potentially prevented by the nonavalent vaccine was 14.4%-23.8% for LSIL, and 19.0%-32.8% for HSIL. The benefit of the nonavalent vaccine compared to the quadrivalent vaccine was more than 80% for both low and high impact estimates for LSIL and more than 50% for both low and high impact estimates for HSIL. The present study confirms that the switch from a first generation HPV vaccines to a nonavalent vaccine would increase the prevention of cervical HSIL in up to 90% of cases.

  12. Lactate and the Lactate-to-Pyruvate Molar Ratio Cannot Be Used as Independent Biomarkers for Monitoring Brain Energetic Metabolism: A Microdialysis Study in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injuries

    PubMed Central

    Sahuquillo, Juan; Merino, Maria-Angels; Sánchez-Guerrero, Angela; Arikan, Fuat; Vidal-Jorge, Marian; Martínez-Valverde, Tamara; Rey, Anna; Riveiro, Marilyn; Poca, Maria-Antonia

    2014-01-01

    Background For decades, lactate has been considered an excellent biomarker for oxygen limitation and therefore of organ ischemia. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the frequency of increased brain lactate levels and the LP ratio (LPR) in a cohort of patients with severe or moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI) subjected to brain microdialysis monitoring to analyze the agreement between these two biomarkers and to indicate brain energy metabolism dysfunction. Methods Forty-six patients with an admission Glasgow coma scale score of ≤13 after resuscitation admitted to a dedicated 10-bed Neurotraumatology Intensive Care Unit were included, and 5305 verified samples of good microdialysis data were analyzed. Results Lactate levels were above 2.5 mmol/L in 56.9% of the samples. The relationships between lactate and the LPR could not be adequately modeled by any linear or non-linear model. Neither Cohen’s kappa nor Gwet’s statistic showed an acceptable agreement between both biomarkers to classify the samples in regard to normal or abnormal metabolism. The dataset was divided into four patterns defined by the lactate concentrations and the LPR. A potential interpretation for these patterns is suggested and discussed. Pattern 4 (low pyruvate levels) was found in 10.7% of the samples and was characterized by a significantly low concentration of brain glucose compared with the other groups. Conclusions Our study shows that metabolic abnormalities are frequent in the macroscopically normal brain in patients with traumatic brain injuries and a very poor agreement between lactate and the LPR when classifying metabolism. The concentration of lactate in the dialysates must be interpreted while taking into consideration the LPR to distinguish between anaerobic metabolism and aerobic hyperglycolysis. PMID:25025772

  13. Mobile technology: Creation and use of an iBook to teach the anatomy of the brachial plexus.

    PubMed

    Stewart, Stuart; Choudhury, Bipasha

    2015-01-01

    In an era of digitally connected students, there is a demand for academic material to be delivered through electronic mobile devices and not just through traditional methods such as lectures and tutorials. A digital interactive book-iBook (for use on the Apple iPad)-was created to teach undergraduate anatomical science students (n = 26) four key areas of the brachial plexus: definitions, gross anatomy, relative anatomy, and functions of terminal branches. Students were asked to complete preresource and postresource questionnaires, which were used to calculate the mean improvement score and ultimately the efficacy of the resource. Free text comments were gathered to evaluate student opinions on this mode of learning. The mean score on the preresource and postresource questionnaires was 4.07 of 8 and 5.69 of 8, respectively. The overall mean improvement score was 1.62, determined statistically significant by a dependent t-test (P = 0.0004). Findings demonstrate that digital books on the iPad provide a uniquely interactive way of delivering information and engaging students. Furthermore, digital books can be used alongside traditional methods of teaching anatomy to enhance and promote deep learning in students. © 2014 American Association of Anatomists.

  14. [Effect of integrated control of schistosomiasis in Shashi District from 2009 to 2013].

    PubMed

    Liu, Jin-Ming; Liao, Xian-Chao

    2014-10-01

    To evaluate the effect of integrated schistosomiasis control in Shashi District from 2009 to 2013, so as to provide the evidence for the development and adjustment of schistosomiasis control strategies. The data of integrated schistosomiasis control from 2009 to 2013 were collected and analyzed for the epidemic situations of human, livestock and Oncomelania hupensis snails. From 2009 to 2013, the infection rates of human and cattle decreased from 2.24% and 1.92% to 0.63% and 0, with decrease rates of 71.88% and 100%, respectively; the area with snails decreased from 760.40 hm2 to 715.08 hm2, with a decrease rate of 5.69%; the occurrence rate of frames with living snails and the average density of living snails decreased from 26.32% and 0.67 snail/0.1 m2 to 18.30% and 0.53 snail/0.1 mi2, with decrease rates of 30.47% and 20.90%, respectively. No infected living snails were found from 2012 to 2013. The integrated schistosomiasis prevention and control strategies with emphasis on infectious source control could effectively reduce the infection rates of human and cattle as well as the snail situation.

  15. Training Needs and Evaluation of a Neuro-HIV Training Module for Non-Physician Healthcare Workers in Western Kenya

    PubMed Central

    Cettomai, Deanna; Kwasa, Judith; Birbeck, Gretchen L.; Price, Richard W.; Bukusi, Elizabeth A.; Meyer, Ana-Claire

    2011-01-01

    Background Recent efforts to improve neurological care in resource-limited settings have focused on providing training to non-physician healthcare workers. Methods A one-day neuro-HIV training module emphasizing HIV-associated dementia (HAD) and peripheral neuropathy was provided to 71 health care workers in western Kenya. Pre- and post-tests were administered to 55 participants. Results Mean age of participants was 29 years, 53% were clinical officers and 40% were nurses. Self-reported comfort was significantly higher for treating medical versus neurologic conditions (p<0.001). After training, participants identified more neuropathy etiologies (pre=5.6/9 possible correct etiologies; post=8.0/9; p<0.001). Only 4% of participants at baseline and 6% (p=0.31) post-training could correctly identify HAD diagnostic criteria, though there were fewer mis-identified criteria such as abnormal level of consciousness (pre=82%; post=43%; p<0.001) and hallucinations (pre=57%; post=15%; p<0.001). Conclusions Healthcare workers were more comfortable treating medical than neurological conditions. This training significantly improved knowledge about etiologies of neuropathy and decreased some misconceptions about HAD. PMID:21652049

  16. Training needs and evaluation of a neuro-HIV training module for non-physician healthcare workers in western Kenya.

    PubMed

    Cettomai, Deanna; Kwasa, Judith; Birbeck, Gretchen L; Price, Richard W; Bukusi, Elizabeth A; Meyer, Ana-Claire

    2011-08-15

    Recent efforts to improve neurological care in resource-limited settings have focused on providing training to non-physician healthcare workers. A one-day neuro-HIV training module emphasizing HIV-associated dementia (HAD) and peripheral neuropathy was provided to 71 health care workers in western Kenya. Pre- and post-tests were administered to 55 participants. Mean age of participants was 29 years, 53% were clinical officers and 40% were nurses. Self-reported comfort was significantly higher for treating medical versus neurologic conditions (p<0.001). After training, participants identified more neuropathy etiologies (pre=5.6/9 possible correct etiologies; post=8.0/9; p<0.001). Only 4% of participants at baseline and 6% (p=0.31) post-training could correctly identify HAD diagnostic criteria, though there were fewer mis-identified criteria such as abnormal level of consciousness (pre=82%; post=43%; p<0.001) and hallucinations (pre=57%; post=15%; p<0.001). Healthcare workers were more comfortable treating medical than neurological conditions. This training significantly improved knowledge about etiologies of neuropathy and decreased some misconceptions about HAD. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  17. Characteristics of Highly Rated Internal Medicine Attendings Before and After the 2004 Work-Hour Restrictions.

    PubMed

    Mallory, Renee; Jackson, Jeffrey L; Mondragon, Donald; Hatzigeorgiou, Christos; DeZee, Kent J; Greenburg, David; O'Malley, Patrick G

    2016-01-01

    To describe the characteristics of top-rated Internal Medicine attendings and whether they changed after implementation of the 2004 work-hour restrictions. Mixed methods study of resident ratings of medicine attendings (Period 1: 1994-1996, n = 250 and Period 2: 2007-2009, n = 152). Residents evaluated 17 attending characteristics. The top 25% of "overall" ratings were classified as "highly rated." Two free-text questions included "What was your attending's best characteristic?" and "How could your attending best improve?" and were coded in duplicate, using grounded qualitative methods. There were no differences in the characteristics of highly rated attendings in the two time periods. Characteristics associated with being a top-rated attending included enthusiasm (odds ratio [OR]: 5.69, 2.78-11.67), balanced teaching style (OR: 3.63, 1.64-8.02), promoting independent thinking (OR: 2.90, 0.96-8.74), fund of knowledge (OR: 2.73, 1.13-6.58), and time management (OR: 1.78, 1.14-2.80). Among the 1,410 utterances, valued attending attributes included helpfulness, promoting independent thinking, and having strong medical knowledge. The characteristics valued by residents in attendings did not change over time despite a major structural change in work hours and patterns of teaching. These valued characteristics continue to be a strong general fund of knowledge, enthusiasm for teaching, and balance between didactic and bedside approaches. Reprint & Copyright © 2016 Association of Military Surgeons of the U.S.

  18. Managing for recreational experience opportunities: the case of hikers in protected areas in Catalonia, Spain.

    PubMed

    Farías Torbidoni, Estela Inés

    2011-03-01

    Planning and management for recreational activities in protected areas involves an understanding of many complex factors. Segmentation of recreation demand and of the main physical or sporting activities can contribute to the design of more efficient management strategies, which may help to maintain or significantly enhance satisfaction with the recreation experience, and this in turn could improve the interest in and appreciation of the natural environment. The current study examined the motivations of hikers in three small Natura 2000 protected areas. It establishes a typology or categorization as a contribution to better management based on a survey conducted through on-site personal interviews with a representative sample of 569 hikers. Through an analysis of the principal intervening components by means of cluster analysis, we identified three groups of hikers based on three motivational dimensions: (1) nature-minded hikers, (2) sporting hikers and (3) general-purpose hikers. The most striking results were the significant differences among group variables related to visit behaviour (frequency and duration of visits and number of people per group), previous knowledge (protection status of the areas) and recreational frequentation (trail categories and protected areas visited). A positive correlation between the degree of sympathy for nature and the degree of satisfaction with the recreational experience (including positive evaluation of the public facilities, signposting and services offered) was also observed. The results are discussed in terms of their applicability and implications in hiking management in protected natural areas such as those of Natura 2000.

  19. Managing for Recreational Experience Opportunities: The Case of Hikers in Protected Areas in Catalonia, Spain

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Farías Torbidoni, Estela Inés

    2011-03-01

    Planning and management for recreational activities in protected areas involves an understanding of many complex factors. Segmentation of recreation demand and of the main physical or sporting activities can contribute to the design of more efficient management strategies, which may help to maintain or significantly enhance satisfaction with the recreation experience, and this in turn could improve the interest in and appreciation of the natural environment. The current study examined the motivations of hikers in three small Natura 2000 protected areas. It establishes a typology or categorization as a contribution to better management based on a survey conducted through on-site personal interviews with a representative sample of 569 hikers. Through an analysis of the principal intervening components by means of cluster analysis, we identified three groups of hikers based on three motivational dimensions: (1) nature-minded hikers, (2) sporting hikers and (3) general-purpose hikers. The most striking results were the significant differences among group variables related to visit behaviour (frequency and duration of visits and number of people per group), previous knowledge (protection status of the areas) and recreational frequentation (trail categories and protected areas visited). A positive correlation between the degree of sympathy for nature and the degree of satisfaction with the recreational experience (including positive evaluation of the public facilities, signposting and services offered) was also observed. The results are discussed in terms of their applicability and implications in hiking management in protected natural areas such as those of Natura 2000.

  20. Differences of oral health conditions between adults and older adults: A census in a Southern Brazilian city.

    PubMed

    Boscato, Noeli; Schuch, Helena S; Grasel, Claudia E; Goettems, Marilia L

    2016-09-01

    To assess differences in the oral diseases/conditions between adults and older adults. A cross-sectional study was carried out with all adults and older adults in Luzerna, South Brazil (n = 569). Clinical data included use of and need for dental prostheses; number of decayed, missing and filled teeth; and temporomandibular disorder. Differences between adults and older adults were evaluated using χ(2) -tests. Associations between independent variables and the use of and need for dental prostheses were determined using Poisson regression analyses (P < 0.05). Increased number of decayed, missing and filled teeth, use of and need for dental prostheses, higher use of complete dentures, and fewer temporomandibular disorder signs and symptoms were observed in older adults. After adjustments, lower social class (P = 0.001) and unmarried status (P = 0.05) were associated with greater need for prosthetic rehabilitation. Women (P = 0.02), older individuals (P < 0.001) and those of lower socioeconomic status (P = 0.001) had a higher risk of using prostheses. A significant difference of oral conditions between adults and older adults was observed. The frequency of use of and need for dental prostheses was higher for older adults, although they had reported lower frequency of temporomandibular disorder. Women, married and individuals of higher socioeconomic status showed better oral health conditions. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 1014-1020. © 2015 Japan Geriatrics Society.

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