Manufacturer Websites Research Articles

A Flow-assay for Farnesol Removal from Adherent Candida albicans Cultures.

Here, we describe a protocol for a continuous flow system for C. albicans cultures growing adherent to a plastic surface. The protocol was adapted from a previous method established to simulate blood flow on endothelial cells (Wilson and Hube, 2010). The adapted protocol was used by us for the removal of molecules in C. albicans supernatants, especially farnesol, which accumulate over the time course of incubation and cannot be specifically depleted. The system used, however, allows various applications including the simulation of physiological flow conditions. Several example applications are given on the manufacturer's website (https://ibidi.com/perfusion-system/112-ibidi-pump-system.html).

A Review of Localized Office and Home Devices in the Treatment of Psoriasis

Importance Targeted phototherapy for treatment of localized psoriasis has advantages over non-targeted phototherapy. It delivers high ultraviolet doses to only the diseased skin, sparing irradiation to normal skin. Objective This study aims to review the devices that are available for targeted treatment of psoriasis. Evidence Review A PubMed literature review was conducted to identify devices for localized psoriasis phototherapy. Device manufacturer websites were searched for specific information. Findings Eighty-four papers were identified that met the inclusion criteria. We identified and described seven laser/light therapies and 22 devices for localized psoriasis treatment. Limitations There is potential bias for each device since the products’ information was provided by their manufacturer. Some devices were excluded due to lack of relevant information. Conclusions and Relevance Excimer laser and narrow band ultraviolet B devices are valuable treatment modalities for localized psoriasis. Handheld, narrow band ultraviolet B devices are efficacious and available for home treatment.

The Intellectual Capital and the Relevance of Non-Financial Information About Innovation in the Spanish Automotive Sector from an Accounting Perspective: A Proposal of an Indicator

Our research on the relevance of non-financial information considers to aspects: one that requires more complete and adequate information on intangibles or Intellectual Capital (IC); and another concerned with the today’s main accounting conceptual frameworks, to which a certain rigidness is attributed in terms of recognizing intangibles in financial areas that can lead to the financial information not being useful for those who use it. Given the complexity of IC, we concentrate on the information provided on websites of automobile component manufacturers in the Spanish automotive sector. We’ve designed an indicator for the innovation disclosure intensity (I3) and a classification of the activities carried out by these companies (UFPE). Both items are crossed with the ratio ROA and Cash-Flow from total assets (Self-financing Capacity). We found statistically significant evidence that companies with lower I3 have worse ROA and Self-financing Capacity ratios.

Elastomeric liners for people with transtibial amputation: Survey of prosthetists' clinical practices.

A diverse range of elastomeric liner products are available to people with transtibial amputation. However, little information is available about how prosthetists select the product best suited to each patient. To determine how prosthetists obtain information about liners, which features are most relevant to the selection process, and which products are used most for patients with transtibial amputation. Cross-sectional survey. A custom online survey was developed to solicit information about prosthetists' liner selection practices. Prosthetists with experience managing transtibial patients were recruited via advertisements posted in magazines, at conferences, and on a listserv. Responses were analyzed to characterize prosthetists' liner selection practices. Data from 106 experienced prosthetists (mean age: 44.4 years, mean experience: 15.7 years) were included. Most prosthetists (94%) obtained liner information from manufacturer representatives, websites, or literature. On average, respondents factored nine different liner characteristics into their selection processes. Prosthetists reported experience with 16 unique liner products with their transtibial patients, but routinely used fewer than 3. Although many different prosthetic liners are available, prosthetists regularly use only a few select liner products. Tools or strategies to objectively compare prosthetic liners across manufacturers are likely needed to facilitate more diverse prescription practices. Clinical relevance Knowledge of prosthetists' prosthetic liner selection practices may guide development of evidence-based resources or tools to facilitate matching patients with appropriate liners. Results of this study may also inform researchers and manufacturers about desirable liner characteristics and direct development of novel liner products to address prosthetists' clinical needs.

Online E-cigarette Marketing Claims: A Systematic Content and Legal Analysis.

Electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), or e-cigarettes, are heavily marketed online. The purpose of our study was to perform a systematic identification and evaluation of claims made within ENDS retailer and manufacturer websites, and the legal status of such claims. We employed a systematic search protocol with popular search engines using 6 terms: (1) e-cigarettes; (2) e-cigs; (3) e-juice; (4) e-liquid; (5) e-hookah; and (6) vape pen. We analyzed English-language websites where ENDS are sold for implicit and explicit health-related claims. A legal analysis determined whether such claims are permissible under the US Food and Drug Administration's regulations. The vast majority of ENDS manufacturer (N = 78) and retailer (N = 32) websites made at least one health-related claim (77% and 65%, respectively). Modified risk claims and secondhand smoke-related claims were most prevalent, with an average of 2 claims per site. Health-related claims are plentiful within ENDS manufacturer and retailer websites. Results demonstrate that these sites focus on potential benefits while minimizing or eliminating information about possible harmful effects of ENDS. These claims are subject to the current regulatory authority by the FDA, and pose a risk of misinforming consumers.

Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Adhesion Barriers on Adhesion Formation in the Horse.

To determine the efficacy of adhesion barriers in horses using quantitative statistical analysis. Meta-analytical review. A search using PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar was performed, followed by secondary searches of veterinary trade journals, bibliographies of relevant articles, manufacturer websites, and technical reference guides. Randomized experimental trials in healthy horses were considered that included both a treatment and control group. The endpoint required was euthanasia or laparoscopy to identify adhesion formation. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model, with the effect size calculated as an odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Statistical significance was set at P<.05. Out of 354 peer reviewed publications that met the search criteria, a total of 9 relevant studies were identified and investigated the use of sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC) solutions, sodium hyaluronate/carboxymethylcellulose (HA/CMC) membranes, hyaluronate (HA), and fucoidan solutions. The odds of adhesions in horses treated with an adhesion barrier were significantly lower than untreated controls (OR=0.102; 95% CI [0.041, 0.254]; P<.001). When analyzed as subsets for each type of barrier, horses treated with HA/CMC membranes and CMC solutions had significant OR for fewer adhesions (OR=0.061; 95% CI [0.013, 0.292]; OR=0.119; 95% CI [0.034, 0.415], respectively; P<.001). The meta-analysis demonstrated adhesion barriers provide a positive effect on the odds of adhesion formation. These results are tempered by the limitations of the study, including the small sample size and a bias towards publication of studies with only positive findings.

Abstract MP88: Sodium, Sugar and Fat Content in Commercial Infant and Toddler Foods, 2015

Introduction: Early intake of foods with excess sodium, sugar, and saturated fat can influence later dietary habits and health, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. A 2012 analysis indicated that 72% of commercial toddler meals were high in sodium (average: 361 mg per serving) and 32% of toddler meals and &gt;70% of infant and toddler snacks, desserts, and juice drinks contained one or more added sugars. Given manufacturer reported changes in commercial infant and toddler foods the study objective is to determine the sodium, sugar and fat content of commercial infant and toddler foods sold in the U.S. in 2015. Methods: Major brands of infant and toddler food products were identified. Nutrition information was collected from manufacturer websites and grocery stores (e.g. private label products) from May to July, 2015. A total of 1,045 food products were categorized according to main ingredients, target eater and serving sizes. Serving sizes were standardized to the FDA Reference Amount Customarily Consumed (RACC) per eating occasion for the specific category. Mean sodium, sugar and saturated fat content was computed per serving, per 100g, and in relation to calories (mg/1000 Kcal for sodium and as a percent of calories for sodium and fat). High sodium content was defined as &gt;210 mg/serving or &gt;200 mg/100g, the CODEX standard used by manufacturers. Presence of added sugar and industrially produced trans fat was determined from the ingredients list. Results: Mean sodium content ranged from 4 mg/serving (mixed grains and fruits) to 290 (toddler meals) and 73 mg/1000 Kcal (cereals, dry/instant) to 997 mg/1000 Kcal (savory snacks).Mean percent of calories from sugar ranged from 7% (savory snacks) to 82% (juices/drinks), and percent of calories from saturated fat from 0% (infant vegetables, dinners, fruits, dry cereals) to 7.5% (toddler meals). Almost all infant foods were low in sodium. Few infant foods contained added sugars except 44% of infant pureed fruits and 27% of mixed grains with fruits. Eighty-one percent of toddler meals exceeded 210 mg/serving, while 5% were &gt;200 mg/100 g with an average of 170 mg/100g. More than 70% of toddler’s meals, cereal bars/breakfast pastries, and infant/toddler desserts and dairy products contained added sugar. None of the products contained industrially produced trans fat. Conclusions: In 2015 average sodium content of commercial toddler meals was about 20% lower than in 2012, with the majority meeting the CODEX standard, but still above 210 mg per serving. Commercial toddler meals, infant mixed grain with fruits and infant or toddler cereal bars/breakfast pastries and desserts remain of concern due to added sugars. Commercial infant and toddler foods are generally low in their saturated fat content with no industrially produced trans fat.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of vildagliptin for treatment of type 2 diabetes.

This systematic review and meta-analysis provides an update on the efficacy and safety of vildagliptin for treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We searched MEDLINE, COCHRANE, EMBASE and the drug manufacturer's website for randomised controlled trials of vildagliptin in patients with T2DM. Sixty-nine studies (28,006 patients) were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with placebo vildagliptin reduced HbA1c (weighted mean difference WMD -0.69%; 95% CI -0.83 to -0.56%; I (2)=82%), and it was as effective as other antidiabetic agents (WMD -0.01%; 95% CI -0.16 to 0.14%; I (2)=93%), without increasing the risk for hypoglycemia (OR 0.83; 95% CI 0.59 to 1.16; I (2)=0% vs. placebo, and OR 0.19; 95% CI 0.15 to 0.24; I (2)=78% versus active comparators). However, it was associated with an increase in the incidence of arthralgia compared with other comparators (OR 1.23; 95% CI 1.02 to 1.48; I (2)=0%). On the contrary, vildagliptin did not increase the incidence of pancreatitis (OR 0.97; 95% CI 0.37 to 2.53; I (2)=0%), serious adverse events (OR 0.98; 95% CI 0.88 to 1.09; I (2)=0%) or death (OR 1.10, 95% CI 0.75 to 1.61; I (2)=0%). Finally, odds ratio (OR) for heart failure, and overall cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events was 0.77 (95% CI 0.46 to 1.30; I (2)=0%) and 0.91 (95% CI 0.73 to 1.14; I (2)=0%), respectively. Vildagliptin is an effective and safe therapeutic option for patients with T2DM, both as monotherapy and as add-on treatment.

Topical management of striae distensae (stretch marks): prevention and therapy of striae rubrae and albae.

Striae distensae (SD) are common dermal lesions, with significant physical and psychological impact. Many therapeutic modalities are available but none can completely eradicate SD. The most common therapy is the application of topicals used both therapeutically and prophylactically. Even though there are many commercially available topical products, not all have sufficient level of evidence to support their continued use in SD. The aim here was to assess the evidence for the use of topicals in SD and to propose a structured approach in managing SD. A systematic search of published literature and manufacturer website information for topicals in SD was carried out. The results showed that there are few studies (n = 11) which investigate the efficacy of topicals in management of SD. Trofolastin and Alphastria creams demonstrated level‐2 evidence of positive results for their prophylactic use in SD. Additionally, tretinoin used therapeutically showed varying results whilst cocoa butter and olive oil did not demonstrate any effect. Overall, there is a distinct lack of evidence for each topical formulation. The majority of topicals failed to mention their effect on early vs. later stages of SD (striae rubrae compared to striae albae) and their role in both prevention and treatment. In conclusion, there is no topical formulation, which is shown to be most effective in eradicating or improving SD. A structured approach in identification and targeted management of symptoms and signs with the appropriate topical is required. Randomized controlled trials are necessary to assess the efficacy of topical products for treatment and prevention of different stages of SD.

Face masks and basketball: NCAA division I consumer trends and a review of over-the-counter face masks.

This study aims to: 1) determine the current consumer trends of over-the-counter (OTC) and custom-made face mask usage among National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I athletic programs; and 2) provide a literature review of OTC face guards and a classified database. Literature review and survey. Consumer trends were obtained by contacting all 352 NCAA Division I programs. Athletic trainers present in the office when called answered the following questions: 1) "When an athlete breaks his or her nose, is a custom or generic face guard used?" and 2) "What brand is the generic face guard that is used?" Data was analyzed to determine trends among athletic programs. Also, a database of OTC devices available was generated using PubMed, Google, and manufacturer Web sites. Among the 352 NCAA Division I athletic programs, 254 programs participated in the survey (72% response rate). The majority preferred custom-made guards (46%). Disadvantages included high cost and slow manufacture turnaround time. Only 20% of the programs strictly used generic brands. For the face mask database, 10 OTC products were identified and classified into four categories based on design, with pricing ranging between $35.99 and $69.95. Only a handful of face masks exist for U.S. consumers, but none of them have been reviewed or classified by product design, sport application, price, and collegiate consumer use. This project details usage trends among NCAA Division I athletic programs and provides a list of available devices that can be purchased to protect the nose and face during sports. NA. Laryngoscope, 126:1054-1060, 2016.

База данных по биореакторам

Nowadays, much attention is paid to the development of biotechnological processes, an important element is the bioreactor. Taking into account the development of modern industry, the number and variety of produced bioreactors is constantly increasing. In order to systematize industrial bioreactors data using Microsoft SQL Server 2008 R2, the “Bioreac-tors” database was created. It systematizes the devices themselves as well as their basic technical and operational characteris-tics. For easy operation of the developed software it is necessary to provide the most comfortable user interaction with the program. Thus, using the Microsoft Visual Studio 2010 software package, an application was created. It represents a database graphical interface. The application allows you to obtain information about the bioreactors, manufacturers, tools, automation and other data in tables with the option to sort information. The tables in the database were developed for entering infor-mation about new models, companies and measuring instruments, and for correcting and updating existing information. A part of the software windows are fitted out with graphical regions to visualize the design of a biotechnological apparatus. As the result, the software product includes an interface adapted for users without knowledge of SQL. A software module was created for automatic data enrichment of the software product. It allows automatically analyze, collect and classify infor-mation from the web sites of manufacturers of bioreactors to fill and update existing databases. The approach, which was used in the module, is based on the DOM tree analysis, as well as on the combination of such methods as HtmlAgilityPack and Data Extracting SDK.

The efficacy of hydrogel dressings as a first aid measure for burn wound management in the pre-hospital setting: a systematic review of the literature.

The aim of this systematic review was to determine the supporting evidence for the clinical use of hydrogel dressings as a first aid measure for burn wound management in the pre-hospital setting. Two authors searched three databases (Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase and The Cochrane Library) for relevant English language articles published through September 2014. Reference lists, conference proceedings and non-indexed academic journals were manually searched. A separate search was conducted using the Internet search engine Google to source additional studies from burns advisory agencies, first aid bodies, military institutions, manufacturer and paramedic websites. Two authors independently assessed study eligibility and relevance of non-traditional data forms for inclusion. Studies were independently assessed and included if Hydrogel-based burn dressings (HBD) were examined in first aid practices in the pre-hospital setting. A total of 129 studies were considered for inclusion, of which no pre-hospital studies were identified. The review highlights that current use of HBD in the pre-hospital setting appears to be driven by sources of information that do not reflect the paramedic environment. We recommend researchers in the pre-hospital settings undertake clinical trials in this field. More so, the review supports the need for expert consensus to identify key demographic, clinical and injury outcomes for clinicians and researchers undertaking further research into the use of dressings as a first aid measure.

Tedizolid: A New Oxazolidinone Antibiotic for Skin and Soft Tissue Infections.

To review the chemistry, pharmacology, microbiology, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, tolerability, drug interactions, dosing, and administration of tedizolid phosphate (TDZ). A search of PubMed using the terms "tedizolid," "torezolid," "TR-701," "TR-700," "DA-7157," and "DA-7218" was performed. The manufacturer's Web site was also reviewed to further identify relevant information. All English-language articles from 2006 to November 2014 appearing in these searches were reviewed for relevance to this paper. In addition, their bibliographies were reviewed to identify any articles not uncovered in the searches. TDZ is the second oxazolidinone antibiotic with a spectrum of activity targeted against gram-positive organisms including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus . It is administered via intravenous infusion or orally without regard to food. The primary route of elimination is fecal excretion. Advanced age, hepatic dysfunction, or renal impairment does not alter its disposition. Phase III clinical trials have demonstrated that TDZ 200 mg daily for 6 days is noninferior to linezolid 600 mg twice daily for 10 days in the treatment of adults with skin and soft tissue infections caused or suspected to be caused by gram-positive organisms. TDZ has a side effect profile similar to that of linezolid and a lower potential for drug interactions. TDZ has been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of adults with skin and soft tissue infections. Further research is needed to refine its role, particularly for the treatment of patients requiring a longer duration of therapy and in those receiving concomitant serotonergic agents.

Evaluation of marketing claims, ingredients, and nutrient profiles of over-the-counter diets marketed for skin and coat health of dogs.

To evaluate marketing claims, ingredients, and nutrient profiles of over-the-counter diets marketed for skin and coat health of dogs. Cross-sectional study. 24 over-the-counter dry and canned diets marketed for skin and coat health of dogs. Data on marketing claims and ingredients were collected from diet packaging and manufacturer websites. Concentrations of selected nutrients were obtained by contacting the manufacturers and were compared against minimum values for Association of American Feed Control Officials Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for adult dog maintenance based on calorie content. Most diets incorporated marketing terms such as digestive health, sensitive, or premium that are poorly defined and may have limited relevance to skin, coat, or general health. The types and numbers of major ingredients (ie, potential to contribute protein to the diet) differed. The total number of unique major ingredients in each diet ranged from 3 to 8 (median, 5.5), but the total number of unique ingredients in each diet ranged from 28 to 68 (median, 38). Concentrations of nutrients associated with skin and coat condition also differed widely. Results indicated that the large variation among over-the-counter diets marketed for skin and coat health may cause confusion for owners during diet selection. Owners of a dog with dermatologic problems should consult their veterinarian to select a good-quality diet that meets specific nutrient goals.

Sodium and sugar in complementary infant and toddler foods sold in the United States.

To evaluate the sodium and sugar content of US commercial infant and toddler foods. We used a 2012 nutrient database of 1074 US infant and toddler foods and drinks developed from a commercial database, manufacturer Web sites, and major grocery stores. Products were categorized on the basis of their main ingredients and the US Food and Drug Administration's reference amounts customarily consumed per eating occasion (RACC). Sodium and sugar contents and presence of added sugars were determined. All but 2 of the 657 infant vegetables, dinners, fruits, dry cereals, and ready-to-serve mixed grains and fruits were low sodium (≤140 mg/RACC). The majority of these foods did not contain added sugars; however, 41 of 79 infant mixed grains and fruits contained ≥1 added sugar, and 35 also contained >35% calories from sugar. Seventy-two percent of 72 toddler dinners were high in sodium content (>210 mg/RACC). Toddler dinners contained an average of 2295 mg of sodium per 1000 kcal (sodium 212 mg/100 g). Savory infant/toddler snacks (n = 34) contained an average of sodium 1382 mg/1000 kcal (sodium 486 mg/100 g); 1 was high sodium. Thirty-two percent of toddler dinners and the majority of toddler cereal bars/breakfast pastries, fruit, and infant/toddler snacks, desserts, and juices contained ≥1 added sugar. Commercial toddler foods and infant or toddler snacks, desserts, and juice drinks are of potential concern due to sodium or sugar content. Pediatricians should advise parents to look carefully at labels when selecting commercial toddler foods and to limit salty snacks, sweet desserts, and juice drinks.

Total hip replacement and surface replacement for the treatment of pain and disability resulting from end-stage arthritis of the hip (review of technology appraisal guidance 2 and 44): systematic review and economic evaluation.

Total hip replacement and surface replacement for the treatment of pain and disability resulting from end-stage arthritis of the hip (review of technology appraisal guidance 2 and 44): systematic review and economic evaluation.

ECONOMIC EFFECT OF INTRODUCTION OF MODULAR TECHNOLOGY IN RAILWAY INDUSTRY

The purpose of the paper is to explore the current state of the railway engineering industry in the world, the problems of its development prospects, especially the introduction of the modular process technology and economic impact of its introduction. Methodology. The research is based on statistical information from public sources, which is used to confirm the veracity of the thesis put forward about the feasibility of further implementation of the principle of modularity in the railway engineering sector. Data was also obtained from the websites of manufacturers of railway equipment. Also, in the study of the issue, analytical articles on the economic development of the sector of railway engineering in the world were used. Results of the research showed that today, in transport engineering industry, in particular – in the railway engineering, there is a problem of inefficient implementation and use of technological developments, which are used in the manufacture of railway rolling stock. Many technical solutions are duplicated, leading to more time and financial costs. At the same time, there is no free access to information about existing technical solutions, which significantly slows down the development of rail transport. One of the main solutions to the problem is the use of modular technology in the design and manufacture of rolling stock. Leading global manufacturers have already begun to use the modules in the production of their rolling stock, but the technology is not yet sufficiently developed and finds its realization only in reducing the costs of production of rolling stock by specific manufacturers. The full benefits of the new technology have not yet been obtained by producers and operators. Thus, there is a considerable margin for the implementation of modular technology in the production of railway vehicles, which will result in further reducing both production costs and the costs of maintenance, operation and repair of rolling stock. Practical implications. The introduction of a modular system in the design, manufacture and operation of rolling stock will lead to a significant breakthrough in the development of the railway sector, reduce the cost of production and maintenance of railway equipment. Together with the inter-company exchange of technology and experience it will contribute to intensification of production and the development of new trends in the railway sector. Value/originality. These data show that the modular technology of the production construction has broad application prospects, while it does not require a significant capital investment. This approach can be applied to various types of rolling stock, as well as, potentially, to other industries. The achievements obtained in the railway sector will find their application in other fields of transport engineering.

Study on effective user registration procedure in business to business using web analytics

On a business to business B2B manufacturer website, web registration form is used to grant users access for web services. In this study, we have tried to identify quantitative difference in user registrations and factors for the difference using web analytics. We have observed and analysed web form in context and in its content perspectives. The analysis in context includes change in registration procedure and number of steps. Also, the analysis in web form content covers difference in questions being asked on the web forms. We have compared numbers of web user registration in pre-and post-web form modification periods. Then, we confirmed that change in context and content of web registration form increased rate of B2B user registration as a result.

A content analysis of electronic cigarette manufacturer websites in China

ObjectiveThe goal of this study was to summarise the websites of electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) manufacturers in China and describe how they market their products.MethodsFrom March to April 2013, we used...

Fidaxomicin: A Novel Macrolide Antibiotic for &lt;I&gt;Clostridium difficile&lt;/I&gt; Infection

To review the chemistry, pharmacology, microbiology, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, tolerability, drug interactions, dosing, and administration of fidaxomicin (FDX). A search of PubMed using the terms "fidaxomicin," "OPT-80," "PAR-101," "OP-1118," "difimicin," "tiacumicin," and "lipiarmycin" was performed. All English-language articles from 1983 to November 2013 were reviewed for relevance. Bibliographies of all articles were reviewed as well as the manufacturer's Web site to further identify relevant information. All English-language articles from 1983 to November 2013 appearing in these searches were reviewed for relevance to this paper. In addition, their bibliographies were reviewed to identify any articles not identified in the searches. FDX is the first macrolide antibiotic with a narrow spectrum of activity targeted against Clostridium difficile. It is administered orally without regard to food. The primary route of elimination is fecal excretion. Advanced age, hepatic dysfunction, or renal impairment do not alter its disposition. Phase III clinical trials have demonstrated that FDX 200 mg twice daily for 10 days is noninferior to vancomycin 125 mg four times daily for 10 days in the treatment of adults with C. difficile infection and is associated with lower recurrence rates. FDX has a favorable side effect profile and a low potential for drug interactions. FDX has been shown to be safe and effective in the treatment of adults with C. difficile infection. Further research and pharmacoeconomic studies are needed to clarify and refine its role in the treatment of patients at high risk for recurrence.