Application of chemometrics in river water classification

The main aim of this work is focused on water quality classification of the Brda river (Poland) and evaluation of pollution data obtained by the monitoring measurement during the period 1994-2002. The study presents the application of selected chemometric techniques to the pollution monitoring dataset, namely, cluster analysis, principal component analysis, discriminant analysis and factor analysis. The obtained results allowed to determine natural clusters and groups of monitoring locations with similar pollution character and identify important discriminant variables. Chemometric analysis confirmed the classification of water purity of the Brda river made by the Inspection of Environmental Protection but the results showed more differentiation between monitored locations. This enables better evaluation of the water quality in a monitored region. On the basis of the chemometric approach, it was also found that some locations were under the high influence of municipal contamination, and some others under the influence of agriculture (discharges from fields) within the observed time period.     

3D printed models in mandibular reconstruction with bony free flaps

The aim of the study was to compare two types of mandible reconstructive operations with scapula and fibula free flaps: procedures with 3-D models from thermoplastic materials and conventional planning surgeries. 8 patients were treated due to an advanced oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma. In four patients with a mandibular defect, a physical 3-D model consisting of the reconstructed and unaffected sites was prepared for a reconstruction protocol. The 3-D models were designed based to high resolution CT scans. Assessment of comparative functionality (stability of junction, mobility, mastication ability) and cosmetics was examined in both groups, following a 8 weeks healing period with better results in group with 3D model. 3-D models for mandible and donor bones allow to obtain better functionality of restored mandible in comparison to the traditional method also significantly decreases time of the operation and allows to achieve the desired shape and esthetic effect within the 1/3 of the lower face.     

Potential of shortening pressing time or reducing pressing temperature for plywood resinated with PF resin modified using alcohols and esters

The study was an analysis of the potential to shorten pressing time or reduce pressing temperature for plywood resinated with alcohol- and ester-modified PF resin. Birch and pine plywoods were produced using such modified resin at a temperature range of 135 to 115?°C, at a constant pressing time (4 min) and at pressing times ranging from 240 to 150 s at a constant pressing temperature (135?°C). Tests showed that the application of PF resin modified with polyols and esters makes it possible, under standard pressing conditions, i.e. 135?°C and pressing time of 4 min, to produce plywood with improved properties in comparison to respective control plywoods. Moreover, it was shown that the used modifiers enhance resin reactivity, facilitating an adequate course of resin curing, resulting in the manufacture of plywoods with good properties even at a pressing temperature reduced by 20?°C or pressing time shortened to 150 s.     

The photochemical behaviour of naphthoylenebenzimidazolone dyes in 1-methyl-2-pyrrolidone

The photochemical behaviour of selected naphthoylenebenzimidazolone dyes is discussed in terms of the photobleaching of the dyes in the presence of electron donors (phenylthioacetic acid, N-phenylglycine, ethyl 4-N,N-dimethylaminobenzoate) as well as an electron acceptor (1-methoxy-4-phenylpyridinium tetrafluoroborate) that are used in photoredox systems for light-induced polymerization. The fluorescence quenching of the dyes in the presence of the electron donors and the electron acceptor was also examined.     

Where do dreams come from? A comparison of presleep and REM sleep thematic content.

Tested the theory that dreams are more clearly related to spontaneous presleep thought than they are to mental content elicited by direct inquiry concerning current life concerns. Mentation reports were collected from 10 20–30 yr old females under 3 conditions that varied in level of control before, during, and after 1 night of monitored sleep. In Condition 1, presleep thoughts were elicited unobtrusively at random intervals during 1 hr prior to lights out. In Condition 2, Ss gave a verbal report when they were awakened from each REM period. Ss were interviewed directly the following morning to elicit their current life concerns in Condition 3. Reports from all conditions were kept anonymous, and each was rephrased as a short thematic statement. Six judges (sleep technicians and clinical psychologists) then attempted to match presleep and postsleep thought to REM dream themes. Presleep and dream themes were matched at better than chance levels. The matching of postsleep reports to dreams did not exceed chance. Clinically sophisticated judges matched presleep and dream reports significantly more accurately than did nonsophisticated judges. It is suggested that cognition during presleep-drowsy conditions seems to be organized along thematic lines similar to those of REM dreams. (11 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)     

Home is where the medical device is.

For a number of reasons, consumers are becoming less willing to rely solely on physicians and other health professionals for medical care. As these consumers swell the ranks of the self-care movement, they provide a growing market for a wide variety of home-use medical devices--everything from blood pressure monitors to cancer screening kits. These products can be valuable tools in self-care, but their use by laymen is not without limits.     

FDA cautions against ultrasounds 'keepsake' images

It's risky business taking pictures of unborn babies when there's no medical need to do so. That's the word from the Food and Drug Administration, which is concerned about companies trying to turn an important medical procedure into a prenatal portrait tool.