A global compilation of known-origin keratin hydrogen and oxygen isotope data for wildlife and forensic research

Author(s):  
Sarah Magozzi ◽  
Andrea Contina ◽  
Michael Wunder ◽  
Hannah Vander Zanden ◽  
Gabriel Bowen

<p>Variations in stable hydrogen (δ<sup>2</sup>H) and oxygen (δ<sup>18</sup>O) isotope ratios have been used in wildlife and forensic applications to infer the provenance of biological tissues by comparing isotopic measurements for unknown samples to geographically indexed measurements or predictions. Tissues composed of the structural protein keratin have been targeted in many systems, leading to a legacy of published data for known-origin samples. An open synthesis of these data would be useful to support broader analysis of keratin isotope patterns across biological systems and as a reference data collection for future studies.</p><p>Significant differences in sample preparation and analysis protocols and calibration and normalization approaches among laboratories have created substantial challenges in the integration of these data, however. Here we identify and assess factors that might be limiting comparability of δ<sup>2</sup>H and δ<sup>18</sup>O data among laboratories. These include sample type and sampling method, procedure for lipid extraction, whether and how partial exchange of keratin H with atmospheric moisture has been addressed, which laboratory reference materials have been used, drying and handling protocols, analysis method, and quality of chromatography for O isotopic analyses. We compile a list of reference materials (including Utah, USGS, and Saskatoon standards) and their established values, and develop a set of ‘rules’ and corrections to account for differences in processing methods and standards as well as the associated uncertainty. We apply these corrections to more than 2500 known-origin data from the literature and demonstrate that the comparability of isotopic data among laboratories is greatly improved by linking all measurements to the same scales. We highlight both the potential of the harmonized dataset for use in wildlife and forensic research as well as substantial challenges and limitations that remain.</p>

Author(s):  
Andrew Atia ◽  
Hannah C. Langdell ◽  
Andrew Hollins ◽  
Ronnie L. Shammas ◽  
Adam Glener ◽  
...  

Abstract Background Microsurgery fellowship applicants make decisions for future training based on information obtained from colleagues, mentors, and microsurgery fellowship program Websites (MFWs). In this study, we sought to evaluate the accessibility and quality of available information by microsurgery programs by analyzing the most commonly used web resources and social media outlets for applicants. Methods The San Francisco (SF) Match and American Society of Reconstructive Microsurgery Websites were queried in April 2020 for microsurgery fellowship programs (MFPs) participating in the SF Match. Twenty-two independent variables of information were assessed on MFWs based on previously published data. Social media presence was also assessed by querying Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for official hospital, plastic surgery residency, and microsurgery fellowship accounts. Results All 24 MFWs participating in the SF Match had a webpage. Program description, faculty listing, operative volume, and eligibility requirements were listed for all programs (100%). The majority of MFWs listed affiliated hospitals (75%), provided a link to the fellowship application (66.7%), listed interview dates (66.7%), and highlighted research interests (50%). A minority of MFWs provided information on conference schedule (37.5%), current fellow listing (25%), previous fellow listing (16.67%), and positions held by previous fellows (8.33%). No MFWs (0%) presented information on selection process, or rotation schedule.All hospitals with an MFP had a Facebook page and nearly all had Instagram (83.3%) and Twitter accounts (95.8%). Plastic surgery residency programs at the same institution of an MFP had social media presence on Facebook (38.9%), Twitter (38.9%), and Instagram (66.7%). Only three MFPs had Facebook accounts (12.5%) and none had Instagram or Twitter accounts. Conclusion As the field of microsurgery continues to grow, the need for effective recruitment and training of microsurgeons continues to be essential. Overall, we conclude that both the accessibility and quality of information available to applicants are limited, which is a missed opportunity for recruitment.


Author(s):  
Dr. Akash S Changole ◽  
Mandip Goyal ◽  
Harish CR

Background: Quality control and the standardization of herbal medicines involve steps like standard source and quality of raw materials, good manufacturing practices and adequate analytical screening. These practices play a vital role in guaranting the quality and stability of herbal preparations. Chandrashakaladi Vataka is an Ayurvedic herbal formulation mentioned to be beneficial in Kushtha. Till date no published data is available on its analytical profile. Aim: To develop the Pharmacognostical and Phyto-chemical profile of Chandrashakaladi Vataka. Material and Methods: Chandrashakaladi Vataka was prepared as per classical method and analytical findings were recorded. Samples were subjected to organoleptic analysis, physico-chemical analysis and HPTLC examination by optimizing the solvent systems. Results and Conclusions: Pharmacognostical profile of Chandrashakaladi Vataka was established. Loss on drying, Ash value, Acid insoluble extract, Methanol soluble extract, Chandrashakaladi Vataka was found within prescribed limits. HPTLC profile of Chandrashakaladi Vataka revealed 12 spots at 254 nm and 13 spots at 366 nm.


Author(s):  
Lei Xu ◽  
Wen Zhang ◽  
Tao Luo ◽  
Jin-Hui Yang ◽  
Zhaochu Hu

High precise and accurate measurements of Fe isotope ratios for fourteen reference materials from the USGS, MPI-DING and CGSG were successfully carried out using a developed analytical technique by fs...


2013 ◽  
Vol 28 (1) ◽  
pp. 18-31 ◽  
Author(s):  
T. G. Fawcett ◽  
C. E. Crowder ◽  
S. N. Kabekkodu ◽  
F. Needham ◽  
J. A. Kaduk ◽  
...  

Eighty specimens of cellulosic materials were analyzed over a period of several years to study the diffraction characteristics resulting from polymorphism, crystallinity, and chemical substitution. The aim of the study was to produce and verify the quality of reference data useful for the diffraction analyses of cellulosic materials. These reference data can be used for material identification, polymorphism, and crystallinity measurements. Overall 13 new references have been characterized for publication in the Powder Diffraction File (PDF) and several others are in the process of publication.


2011 ◽  
Vol 57 (6) ◽  
pp. e1-e47 ◽  
Author(s):  
David B Sacks ◽  
Mark Arnold ◽  
George L Bakris ◽  
David E Bruns ◽  
Andrea Rita Horvath ◽  
...  

BACKGROUND Multiple laboratory tests are used to diagnose and manage patients with diabetes mellitus. The quality of the scientific evidence supporting the use of these tests varies substantially. APPROACH An expert committee compiled evidence-based recommendations for the use of laboratory testing for patients with diabetes. A new system was developed to grade the overall quality of the evidence and the strength of the recommendations. Draft guidelines were posted on the Internet and presented at the 2007 Arnold O. Beckman Conference. The document was modified in response to oral and written comments, and a revised draft was posted in 2010 and again modified in response to written comments. The National Academy of Clinical Biochemistry and the Evidence Based Laboratory Medicine Committee of the AACC jointly reviewed the guidelines, which were accepted after revisions by the Professional Practice Committee and subsequently approved by the Executive Committee of the American Diabetes Association. CONTENT In addition to long-standing criteria based on measurement of plasma glucose, diabetes can be diagnosed by demonstrating increased blood hemoglobin A1c (Hb A1c) concentrations. Monitoring of glycemic control is performed by self-monitoring of plasma or blood glucose with meters and by laboratory analysis of Hb A1c. The potential roles of noninvasive glucose monitoring, genetic testing, and measurement of autoantibodies, urine albumin, insulin, proinsulin, C-peptide, and other analytes are addressed. SUMMARY The guidelines provide specific recommendations that are based on published data or derived from expert consensus. Several analytes have minimal clinical value at present, and their measurement is not recommended.


2014 ◽  
Vol 60 (2) ◽  
pp. 151-155 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ricardo Vieira Botelho ◽  
Rafael Bastianello Junior ◽  
Luciana DiniGianini de Albuquerque ◽  
Wanderley Marques Bernardo

Objective: The objective of this review is to reveal the quality of published data and the effect size of DPFs compared to rigid fixation in lumbar spine. Summary of background data: since 2002, several dynamic pedicle fixation (DPF) systems have been developed with the aim to stabilize the spine without the undesirable effects of rigid lumbar spine fixation. Nearly ten years later, there are several studies on these dynamic systems. Methods: A systematic review was done in MEDLINE/PubMED, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Randomized Trials and Google Scholar to assess the quality of published literature and the available studied outcomes in randomized controlled trials of DPF. Results: Only three papers described randomized trials studying DPF. One of them focused on protection of adjacent level disease provided by DPF. Conclusion: It was not possible to reveal any evidence for benefits using DPF compared to rigid fixation in surgery for lumbar spine.


BMJ Open ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (9) ◽  
pp. e053851
Author(s):  
Karem Slim ◽  
Flora Badon ◽  
Charles-Hervé Vacheron ◽  
Chadli Dziri ◽  
Thomas Marquillier

IntroductionImmunonutrition (IN) is generally used before major visceral surgery with the intent to reduce postoperative complications, especially infectious ones. However, the conclusions of published meta-analyses are conflicting. The purpose of this review is to synthesise the data of published systematic reviews on the effectiveness of IN.Methods and analysisThis protocol follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses Protocols guidelines. This is an umbrella review of systematic reviews comparing IN (delivered orally 5–7 days preoperatively) with normal diet or isocaloric isonitrogenous feeding before visceral surgery performed on any of several viscera (colorectum, stomach, pancreas, liver, oesophagus). We search the systematic reviews included in the main bibliographic databases. To assess the efficacy of IN, several outcomes will be considered: the main outcome is infectious complications (surgical site infections, pulmonary infections or urinary infections) and secondary outcomes are overall morbidity, hospital length of stay and mortality. Identified reviews will be screened by two independent assessors. The methodological quality of relevant included reviews will be assessed using A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) instrument. The data extracted from included reviews will be synthesised using the r-Metafor package considering separate groups according to the viscus of interest. Publication bias will be evaluated, and subgroup analyses will be performed according to the quality of studies and preoperative nutritional status.Ethics and disseminationAn umbrella review based on published data from systematic reviews needs no ethical approval. Furthermore, no patient will be involved in the review. Once terminated, the review will be submitted for publication in an open access journal to ensure wide dissemination of the findings.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42021255177.


2019 ◽  
Vol 15 (3) ◽  
pp. 5-13
Author(s):  
L. A. Konopelko ◽  
A. V. Kolobova ◽  
O. V. Fatina

Currently, in the Russian Federation, the metrological traceability of certified reference materials of the composition of gas mixtures in cylinders under pressure produced by manufacturers of certified reference materials is carried out in accordance with GOST 8.578-2014. Considering that certified reference materials of the composition of gas mixtures in cylinders under pressure are used for testing to approye the type of measuring instruments, verification, calibration, and graduation of gas-analytical measuring instruments used to control explosive gases and vapors, harmful components in the atmospheric air and the air of the working area, emissions from vehicles and enterprises, to control technological processes, the quality of hydrocarbon products, etc., the issue of ensuring the quality of seriously produced certified reference materials (about 100.000 cylinders with gas mixtures per year) is important. To ensure the quality of certified reference materials of gas mixtures in cylinders under pressure, mass-produced by manufacturers of certified reference materials, we offer the following actions:– manufacturers of certified reference materials’ passing of mandatory accreditation for compliance with the requirements of GOST ISO Guide 34–2014 and GOST ISO Guide 35–2015;– manufacturers of certified reference materials’ constant participation in the proficiency testing programs through interlaboratory tests;– actualizing and refining the existing set of standards defining the requirements for the entire life cycle of a certified reference material of a gas mixture in a cylinder under pressure;– improving the method of certification of a reference material by calculating the value of the expanded uncertainty of the reference material and the introducting a new coefficient «technological reserve».


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alhad Mulkalwar ◽  
Purva Gaidhane

UNSTRUCTURED Reporting guidelines have become very important tools in medical research. These guidelines improve the completeness, accuracy and transparency of reporting the crucial aspects of research studies. This aids not only in accurate evaluation of the methodological quality of research and validity of the results, but also improves the quality of evidence synthesized from published data for application in practice.It’s important for the publishers to incorporate these guidelines in their ‘Instructions to Authors’ on the journal website. We documented the extent of endorsement of the five commonly used standard guidelines CONSORT, QUOROM, MOOSE, PRISMA, STROBE and CARE by fifty PubMed indexed Indian Medical journal


1991 ◽  
Vol 37 (4) ◽  
pp. 540-546 ◽  
Author(s):  
Linda Thienpont ◽  
Lothar Siekmann ◽  
Alexander Lawson ◽  
Elisabeth Colinet ◽  
Andrȳ De Leenheer

Abstract The Community Bureau of Reference of the European Communities has produced four batches of lyophilized serum Certified Reference Materials, two for cortisol (CRM 192 and 193) and two for progesterone (CRM 347 and 348). For cortisol, one of the pools consisted of serum from healthy blood donors, whereas the second batch was supplemented with pure cortisol. The progesterone Reference Materials contained only endogenous hormone concentrations. Assessment of vial-to-vial variability in the cortisol and progesterone concentrations showed no between-sample inhomogeneity, and the materials were stable. The quality of the materials was therefore considered sufficient for certification of the values for the cortisol and progesterone concentrations by a collaborative study involving several laboratories from the European Communities, using isotope dilution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Inaccuracy in reconstitution of the lyophilized materials was less than 0.3%; imprecision of sampling was less than 0.2%. For determinations of cortisol and progesterone concentrations, the mean within-laboratory coefficients of variation (CVs) were 1.76% (CRM 192), 1.19% (CRM 193), 1.64% (CRM 347), and 1.75% (CRM 348). The between-laboratory CVs were greater: CRM 192, 1.79%; CRM 193, 1.48%; CRM 347, 2.08%; and CRM 348, 2.16%. The concentrations in the reconstituted Reference Materials were certified to be 273 nmol/L in CRM 192 and 763 nmol/L in CRM 193 for cortisol and 10.13 nmol/L in CRM 347 and 40.3 nmol/L in CRM 348 for progesterone. Uncertainties at the 0.95 confidence level--6 (CRM 192), 14 (CRM 193), 0.21 (CRM 347), and 1.0 nmol/L (CRM 348)--were considered compatible with the intended use of the materials.


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document