The development of quantitative measures for self-assessment of the environmental performance of farming enterprises is described. A rule-based expert system approach is adopted based on well established sources of guidance. Value judgements are introduced as configurable coefficients. The system derives a compound performance indicator which can provide the basis for inter-or intra-farm comparisons and also provides an objective criterion on which the concept of continuing environmental performance can be judged. This method can also be used to provide an empirical check on environmental sustainability. The evaluations within the system are based on whether actions have, on balance, the potential to result in net environmental harm or benefit. The role of such evaluations within an integrated decision support framework is discussed.
As part of its mandate from the European Commission, EFSA must review existing advice from the Scientific Committee for Food (SCF) on Dietary Reference Values (DRVs) for energy, macro‐ and micronutrients and other substances with a nutritional or physiological effect, including sodium and chloride. As part of preparatory work for this task, this part of the report summaries current general scientific information for the micronutrients sodium and chloride. Data has been collated via a literature review of published, peer reviewed scientific literature from two online databases: Google Scholar and PubMed. Information contained within a total of 146 documents for sodium and 85 documents for chloride has been evaluated and included. As well as describing the methodological approach, this report covers the occurrence, geology and chemistry of sodium and chloride; approaches to and limitations of the chemical analysis of clinical samples; the biological functions of sodium and chloride and an overview of the health consequences of sodium and chloride deficiency. In addition, sodium and chloride physiology and metabolism in healthy adults, biomarkers of intake, status and function and genotypes affecting metabolism are covered.
The correctional education literature indicates that transitional support services for handicapped, adjudicated youth are much needed but often neglected. Public school special education directors and correctional education administrators in five states were polled to investigate linkages between the Two systems. Although special education services were not generally coordinated by a liaison hired specifically to coordinate services between the two systems, the majority of respondents felt that there was a need for this position. Difficulties with information exchange and transference of records, including IEPs, were identified.
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