bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trihalomethanes and haloacetic acid species from the chlorination of algal organic matter and bromide
Authors: Wei Y. Y. , Liu Y. , Dai R. H. , Liu X. , Wu J. J. , Shi Z. , Ren J. , Zhang Y.
Published: March 2011

Bromide and algal pollution are important factors influencing disinfection byproduct (DBP) formation and speciation in reservoir water in coastal areas. In this study, the chlorination of model algal cellular compounds (bovine serum albumin, fish oil and starch), Microcystis aeruginosa and its extra-cellular organic matter (EOM) were conducted in the absence and presence of bromide. The main aim of the present study is to explore their potential as precursors for trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acid (HAAs) speciation upon chlorination in the presence of bromide. The results showed that all brominated THMs species were generated, whereas only bromochloroacetic acid (BCAA) or/and dibromoacetic acid (DBAA) was/were produced as for brominated HAAs (Br-HAAs) from the three model compounds in the presence of bromide. The effect of bromide on Br-HAAs speciation upon fish oil chlorination was more evident than with BSA and starch. There was a good correlation between the species predicted from the model compounds and those obtained from specific algal species. Br-HAAs and Br-THMs species from Microcystis aeruginosa cells or EOM were the same as those from bovine serum albumin in the presence of bromide.
Identification of industrial wastewater by clustering wastewater treatment plant influent ultraviolet visible spectra
Authors: Dürrenmatt David J. , Gujer Willi
Published: March 2011

A procedure is proposed which allows the detection of industrial discharge events at the inlet of a wastewater treatment plant without the need for measurements performed at the industry, for special equipment and for exact knowledge of the industrial sewage. By performing UV/Vis measurements at the inlet of a plant and analyzing them with a two-staged clustering method consisting of the self-organizing map algorithm and the Ward clustering method, typical sewage clusters can be found. In an experiment performed at a mid-sized Swiss plant, one cluster of a cluster model with five clusters could be attributed to an industrial laundry. Out of 95 laundry discharging events measured in a validation period, 93 were correctly detected by the proposed algorithm, two were false positives and five were false negatives.
Two cyanobacterial strains can be distinguished from each other and other eukaryotic algae by spectral absorption method
Authors: Lokuhewage Asha U. M. , Fujino T.
Published: March 2011

Spectral absorption method based on two step linear regression analyses (TSLR) was applied for detection of two strains of cyanobacterium, Microcystis (blue-green algae) from eukaryotic algae. Both blue-green algae, algae and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were considered from freshwater bodies in Kanto region, Japan. The results show that blue-green species can be detected from other algal species using absorption spectra of water samples. In this study statistical analysis was done by TSLR method, which determined the gradient vectors of single algal species and DOC. We believe that this method might be useful in environmental monitoring of freshwater algae.
Quality and first flush analysis of stormwater runoff from a tropical commercial catchment
Authors: Chow M. F. , Yusop Z. , Mohamed M.
Published: March 2011

This paper examines the storm runoff quality from a commercial area in south Johor, Malaysia. Six storm events with a total of 68 storm runoff samples were analyzed. Event Mean Concentration (EMC) for all constituents analysed showed large inter-event variation. Site mean concentrations (SMC) for total suspended solids (TSS), oil and grease (O&G), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate-nitrogen (NO3-N), nitrite-nitrogen (NO2-N), ammonia-nitrogen (NH3-N), total phosphorus (Total P) and Soluble P are 261, 4.31, 74, 192, 1.5, 0.006, 1.9, 1.12 and 0.38 mg/L, respectively. The SMCs at the studied site are higher than those reported in many urban catchments. The mean baseflow concentrations were higher than the EMCs for COD, Soluble P, NH3-N, NO3-N, Total P and NO2-N. However, the reverse was observed for TSS and O&G. All pollutants showed the occurrence of first flush phenomenon with the highest strength was observed for TSS, COD and NH3-N.
Effect of photoreactivation on ultraviolet inactivation of Microcystis aeruginosa
Authors: Sakai H. , Katayama H. , Oguma K. , Ohgaki S.
Published: March 2011

Microcystis aeruginosa forms algal bloom in lakes. They produce toxic compounds such as microcystin. Against such algal problems, the effect of UV treatment was examined. In UV treatment, the effect of photoreactivation should be examined. Photoreactivation is a repair mechanism of genomic DNA damage by sunlight irradiation. UV treatment causes DNA damages on target cyanobacteria, however sunlight can repair some of these DNA damages. To examine the effect of photoreactivation, both white and yellow light incubations were employed. White light allows both photoreactivation and photosynthesis, while yellow light prohibits photoreactivation and only allows photosynthesis. Microcystis aeruginosa NIES 98 strain and PCC 7806 strain were used as the test cultures. Those cultures were exposed to low-pressure (LP) or medium-pressure (MP) ultraviolet (UV) lamp, then incubated under white or yellow light. Yellow light incubation method was effective to examine photoreactivation. It was revealed that almost six times UV fluence was required to inactivate 99% of Microcystis aeruginosa, under photoreactivation condition, compared with non-photoreactivation condition. Inhibition of photoreactivation could greatly enhance UV treatment efficiency against Microcystis aeruginosa. One of the practical suggestions is to conduct UV treatment at night, when photoreactivation by sunlight rarely takes place. Highly efficient inactivation was achieved by avoiding photoreactivation.
Autotrophic nitrogen removal at low temperature
Authors: Vázquez-Padín J. R. , Fernández I. , Morales N. , Campos J. L. , Mosquera-Corral A. , Méndez R.
Published: March 2011

In this work the autotrophic nitrogen removal was carried out at moderately low temperatures using two configurations: a) two-units one comprising a SHARON reactor coupled to an Anammox SBR and b) single-unit one consisting of a granular SBR performing the CANON process. At 20°C the two-units system was limited by the Anammox step and its nitrogen removal capacity was around ten times lower than the CANON system (0.08 g N/(L d) versus 1 g N/(L d)). When the CANON system was operated at 15°C the average removed nitrogen loading rate decreased to 0.2 g N/(L d). The CANON system was operated in order to limit the ammonia oxidation rate to avoid nitrite inhibition of Anammox bacteria. Since both, temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration regulate ammonia oxidizing bacteria activity, once the temperature of the reactor is decreased the DO concentration must be decreased to avoid the deeper oxygen penetration inside the granule which could cause inhibition of Anammox bacteria by oxygen and/or nitrite.
A method for visualising polyelectrolyte distribution after polyelectrolyte conditioning of a biotic sludge
Authors: Curvers Daan , Saveyn Hans , Van den Broeck Wim , Van Oostveldt Patrick , Van der Meeren Paul
Published: March 2011

Charge neutralisation is an important mechanism in (polyelectrolyte) conditioning of biotic sludges and required for efficient sludge dewatering. Based on results from streaming potential and zeta potential measurements, it has been suggested that charge neutralisation is more complete on the outside of the sludge flocs than on the inside. This paper discusses the development of a technique for assessing the spatial distribution of polyelectrolyte (PE) within sludge flocs. After flocculation with a fluorescently labelled PE, fluorescence microscopy can be used to visualise the distribution of the PE in the sludge flocs. Preliminary results indicate that the PE can penetrate relatively deep into the sludge flocs (and flocculi). Inhomogeneity in the PE distribution arises from differences in exposure to PE in different regions, and from differences in the affinity of the PE for different substances.
Freeze–thaw treatment of RBC sludge from a remote mining exploration facility in subarctic Canada
Authors: Diak James , Örmeci Banu , Proux Corinne
Published: March 2011

Freeze–thaw conditioning of RBC (Rotating Biological Contactor) sludge was tested using a pilot-scale freezing bed placed in a mobile freezer operated at −10°C. Sludge samples from a remote mining exploration facility were flown in every 2 weeks, and added to the freezing bed in 8 layers of 10 cm thick. Approximately 4 months after the first layer of sludge was added, the pilot unit was removed from the freezer and thawed at ambient temperatures. After one day of thawing, the solids concentration increased from 2.6% to 16.2%. The final cake solids concentration was 21%. Melt water had increasing turbidity, COD, TSS, VSS, nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations during the thawing period. Freeze–thaw conditioning also decreased the initial densities of fecal coliforms and Salmonella in sludge. The results of this study showed that freeze-thaw technology successfully dewatered RBC sludge without the need for mechanical equipment, and is a sustainable option for sludge dewatering in cold and remote regions.
Different Welfare States—Different Policies? An Analysis of the Substance of National Health Promotion Policies in Three European Countries
Authors: Fosse Elisabeth
Published: March 2011

This study examines healthy public policy development in three European countries representing different welfare regimes: England representing the liberal model; Norway, the social democratic model; and the Netherlands, the corporatist model. National policy documents were used for the analysis. In England and Norway, health promotion has a prominent place and there is a political focus on the broader determinants of health. However, while the Norwegian policies have an explicit focus on the social gradient, the English policies have a much clearer focus on disadvantaged groups and geographic areas. In the Netherlands, the main focus is on disease prevention and risk behaviors. In the Netherlands and England there is a strong focus on the free will of the population in changing unhealthy lifestyles. By analyzing the different policies in the light of Esping-Andersen's typology of welfare state regimes, it is possible to better understand the differences among the countries. While all types of regimes seem willing to develop targeted measures, the social democratic regime seems the most willing to also develop structural measures addressing the wider social determinants of health.
New Wine in an Old Bottle: Does Alienation Provide an Explanation of the Origins of Physician Discontent?
Authors: McKinlay John B. , Marceau Lisa
Published: March 2011

We have witnessed transformational changes to the U.S. health care system over several decades. Alongside these changes is an increasing number of research reports and commentaries on physician workplace dissatisfaction and discontent. Primary care physicians, in particular, report dissatisfaction with conditions on the ground. Is there solid evidence concerning the magnitude of doctors' discontent, and how is it changing over time? Is it confined to the United States, or is it also occurring in other countries with different health care systems? Does physician discontent affect the processes, quality, and outcomes of medical care? This article addresses these questions. It considers the dimensions of physician dissatisfaction, whether there is a problem, and competing contributions to physician discontent. The authors suggest that the classic concept of alienation may build upon valuable earlier work and provide a new, coherent explanation of the workplace origins of physician discontent. Alienation theory combines both structural and psychological components associated with workplace discontent and has the potential to explain the changing position of knowledge workers (such as physicians) in the new economy.
Coverage with Evidence Development for Pharmaceuticals: A Policy in Evolution?
Authors: Lexchin Joel
Published: March 2011

Coverage with evidence development (CED) has been developed as a response to the uncertainty in evidence when new technologies, including pharmaceuticals, are introduced into the market. Rather than deny coverage for these technologies or grant them unlimited coverage, CED attempts to ensure that patients' access to new medications is not prevented but is managed in a coordinated way, while also generating additional evidence to reduce any uncertainty about the value of the medications. CED projects are currently operating in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States. However, decision-making about these projects is haphazard, and basic information about the projects is not publicly available. As a new policy development there are many unanswered policy questions, and no organized comprehensive strategy seems to be in place in any country for resolving these questions. Until these policy issues have been addressed, CED will have difficulty achieving its potential.
Facial Affect and Race Influence Threat Perception
Authors: Cothran D. Lisa
Published: March 2011

The Guns and Tools task (Payne, 2001) was modified in the current research so that the Black and White face primes displayed emotional expressions. A 2 (race) × 3 (facial affect) × 2 (target) within-subjects design was utilized. Formal predictions were that prime race and facial affect would have separate and combined effects on the misperception of threat. Predictions were partially supported. These findings replicate Payne (2001) and illustrate the separable and significant impact of both racial cues and facial affect in the misperception of threat.
Extracellular Volume and Glomerular Filtration Rate in Children with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Abraham Alison G. , Muñoz Alvaro , Furth Susan L. , Warady Bradley , Schwartz George J.
Published: March 2011

Background and objectives

Extracellular volume (ECV) is the fluid contained in all noncellular compartments of the body and is a quantity tightly controlled by the kidney. Thus, there is a strong link between ECV and kidney function.

Design, setting, participants & measurements

The Chronic Kidney Disease in Children (CKiD) study uses injected iohexol to obtain direct measures of GFR. Direct calculation of ECV was viable from GFR studies using descriptors of the disappearance curves. Using linear regression methods on the log-transformed variables, markers of size (height and weight) and biomarkers of kidney disease (serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and cystatin C) were assessed for their relationships with ECV normalized to body weight (ECV/wt). The relationship to hypertension (systolic BP >95th percentile for age, sex, and height) was also assessed.

Results

Data from 790 iohexol studies with medians for GFR = 43.4 ml/min per 1.73 m2, weight = 35 kg, and height = 1.4 m were used. The median ECV was 8.6 L, and the median ECV/wt was 0.23 L/kg. ECV was found to be a function of height (m) and weight (kg) according to the relationshipECV= (Equation is included in full-text article.) ×height. Biomarkers of kidney disease yielded significant relationships with ECV/wt, but the strength of association was small. No significant association between ECV/wt and hypertension was found.

Conclusions

ECV has relevance to studies of chronic kidney disease, is related to biomarkers, and can be easily estimated from the square root of weight and height.
Desensitization Protocols and Their Outcome
Authors: Marfo Kwaku , Lu Amy , Ling Min , Akalin Enver
Published: March 2011

In the last decade, transplantation across previously incompatible barriers has increasingly become popular because of organ donor shortage, availability of better methods of detecting and characterizing anti-HLA antibodies, ease of diagnosis, better understanding of antibody-mediated rejection, and the availability of effective regimens. This review summarizes all manuscripts published since the first publication in 2000 on desensitized patients and discusses clinical outcomes including acute and chronic antibody-mediated rejection rate, the new agents available, kidney paired exchange programs, and the future directions in sensitized patients. There were 21 studies published between 2000 and 2010, involving 725 patients with donor-specific anti-HLA antibodies (DSAs) who underwent kidney transplantation with different desensitization protocols. All studies were single center and retrospective. The patient and graft survival were 95% and 86%, respectively, at a 2-year median follow-up. Despite acceptable short-term patient and graft survivals, acute rejection rate was 36% and acute antibody-mediated rejection rate was 28%, which is significantly higher than in nonsensitized patients. Recent studies with longer follow-up of those patients raised concerns about long-term success of desensitization protocols. The studies utilizing protocol biopsies in desensitized patients also reported higher subclinical and chronic antibody-mediated rejection. An association between the strength of DSAs determined by median fluorescence intensity values of Luminex single-antigen beads and risk of rejection was observed. Two new agents, bortezomib, a proteasome inhibitor, and eculizumab, an anti-complement C5 antibody, were recently introduced to desensitization protocols. An alternative intervention is kidney paired exchange, which should be considered first for sensitized patients.
Modeling the selective laser melting of polylactide composite materials
Authors: Morsbach Christian , Höges Simon , Meiners Wilhelm
Published: March 2011

The rapid manufacturing technology selective laser melting (SLM) is among others employed to build individually designed bone implants out of the bioresorbable composite material polylactide/β-tricalcium phosphate (PDLLA/β-TCP). Degradation of PDLLA, which commences at temperatures >215 °C and results in unwanted changes in resorption kinetics, has to be avoided. This is achieved by keeping the process temperatures as low as possible while still producing dense parts. Processing strategies are investigated using a thermal model of the SLM process solved with finite element analysis. A mesh refinement algorithm is implemented, reducing the computation time by a factor of approximately 5, making the full three-dimensional modeling of the SLM process possible. The thermal and optical properties of PDLLA/β-TCP are measured focusing on the absorption of laser radiation during the process. The model predicts the lowest degradation when a top hat beam profile in combination with a reduced layer thickness and the respective laser power are used. The results of the theoretical investigation are used to fabricate dense parts (density >98%) out of the material PLDLA/β-TCP.
Effects of angiotensin II receptor antagonists on anxiety and some oxidative stress markers in rat
Authors: Ciobica Alin , Bild Veronica , Hritcu Lucian , Padurariu Manuela , Bild Walther
Published: March 2011

In addition to its known classical roles, the renin angiotensin system (RAS) has more subtle functions which include the regulation of emotional responses. Previous studies regarding the anxiety related behavior of RAS have showed controversial results. There is also evidence that oxidative stress accompanies angiotensin II infusion, but the role of AT1/AT2 specific receptors is not clear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of central angiotensin II receptor blockers on anxiety state and oxidative stress. Behavioral testing included elevated plus maze, while oxidative stress status was measured though the extent of a lipid peroxidation product (malondialdehyde-MDA) and the specific activity of some defense antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase-SOD and glutathione peroxidase-GPx). The rats treated with angiotensin II spent significantly less time in the open-arms of elevated-plus-maze, while the administration of losartan resulted in a significant increase of this time. We observed a significant increase of MDA concentration in the angiotensin II group and a decrease of MDA levels in both losartan and PD-123177 groups. In addition, a significant correlation was seen between the time spent in the open arms and oxidative stress markers. These findings could lead to important therapeutic aspects regarding the use of angiotensin II receptor blockers in anxiety-related disorders.
Sentinel lymph node in colorectal cancer — 5 years follow up
Authors: Zielinski Jacek , Jaworski Radoslaw , Kabata Pawel , Rzepko Robert , Kruszewski Wiesław , Jaskiewicz Janusz
Published: March 2011

To assess the impact of micrometastases in sentinel and non-sentinel lymph nodes on long-term survival rates of patients treated for colorectal cancer (CRC). Data of 57 patients diagnosed with CRC and treated in the Department of Surgical Oncology in Gdansk in the years 2002–2006 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinico-histopathological data were analyzed using chi-square tests. The effect on long-time survival rates was analyzed using Kaplan-Meier survival probability estimates. Identification of the SLN was performed using the blue dye staining method. All regional lymph nodes were subject to standard histopathological examination. Additionally in 32(56.14%) patients whose nodes were found negative for metastases on standard staining further immunohistochemical analyses were performed. In the analyzed group SLNB was performed in 42(73.7%) patients with colon cancer and in 15(26.3%) with rectal cancer. Identification of the SLN was possible in 45(78.9%) patients. The sensitivity of SLNB was 33%. False negatives were found in 66%. SLNB is a feasible method in CRC patients. We presume that lack of micrometastases in the SLN and non-SLN cannot be regarded as a prognostic factor.
DMSO modulates the pathway of apoptosis triggering
Authors: Banič Blaž , Nipič Damijan , Šuput Dušan , Milisav Irina
Published: March 2011

We demonstrate here that distribution of caspase-9 influences the pathway of apoptosis triggering, since caspase-9 is activated efficiently only when it is distributed solely in the cytosol. Caspase-9 moves to the nuclei in a response to cell stress during isolation of primary hepatocytes; this is called preapoptotic cell stress response. The dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) treatment cannot prevent the migration of caspase-9 into the nuclei when it is added to primary hepatocytes immediately after isolation; however, it can trigger redistribution of caspase-9 from the nuclei into the cytosol when added 1 day post-isolation. This redistribution is temporary, since caspase-9 returns to the nuclei within 48 hours of DMSO treatment. Thereafter, some caspase-9 is retained in the nuclei of DMSO-treated hepatocytes for longer than in the nuclei of untreated hepatocytes. By measuring caspase activities, we demonstrate that the addition of DMSO to cell culture medium can temporarily normalize the susceptibility of hepatocytes for apoptosis triggering through the intrinsic pathway. DMSO contributes also to the prolonged pathway inactivation, i.e., by extending preapoptotic cell stress response. We propose that DMSO extends the survival of primary hepatocytes by modulating preapoptotic cell stress response, which could be exploited for extending the lifespan of other primary cell cultures.
Involvement of carboxyl groups in chloride transport and reversible DIDS binding to band 3 protein in human erythrocytes
Authors: Janas Teresa , Janas Tadeusz
Published: March 2011

Noncovalent DIDS binding to Band 3 (AE1) protein in human erythrocyte membranes, modified by non-penetrating, water soluble 1-ethyl-3-(4-azonia-4,4-dimethylpentyl)-carbodiimide iodide (EAC), was studied at 0°C in the presence of 165 mM KCl. Under experimental conditions applied up to (48 ± 5) % of irreversible chloride self-exchange inhibition was observed. The apparent dissociation constant, KD, for “DIDS-Band 3” complex, determined from the chloride transport experiments, was (34 ± 3) nM and (80 ± 12) nM for control and EAC-treated resealed ghosts, respectively. The inhibition constant, Ki, for DIDS was (35 ± 6) nM and (60 ± 8) nM in control and EAC-treated ghosts, respectively. The reduced affinity for DIDS reversible binding was not a result of negative cooperativity of DIDS binding sites of Band 3 oligomer since Hill’s coefficients were indistinguishable from 1 (within the limit error) both for control and EAC-treated ghosts. By using tritium-labeled DIDS, 4,4’-diisothiocyanato-2,2’-stilbenedisulfonate ([3H]DIDS), the association rate constant, k+1 (M−1s−1), was measured. The mean values of (4.3 ± 0.7) × 105 M−1s−1 for control and (2.7 ± 0.7) × 105 M−1s−1 for EAC-treated ghosts were obtained. The mean values for KD, evaluated from [3H]DIDS binding measurements, were (37 ± 9) nM and (90 ± 21) nM for control and EAC-modified ghosts, respectively. The results demonstrate that EAC modification of AE1 reduces about 2-fold the affinity of AE1 for DIDS. It is suggested that half of the subunits are modified near the transport site by EAC.
Gerstmann-Straüssler-Scheinker PRNP P102L-129V mutation
Authors: Ferrer Isidro , Carmona Margarita , Blanco Rosa , Recio Maria , San Segundo R.
Published: March 2011

Neuropathological and biochemical studies in a case of Gerstmann-Straüssler-Scheinker disease bearing the PRNP P102L-129V mutation showed numerous multicentric PrPres in the cerebral cortex, striatum, thalamus and cerebellum, PrPres globular deposits in the anterior and posterior horns of the spinal cord, and multiple granular PrPres deposits in the grey and white matter of the encephalon and spinal cord. Western blots with antiPrPres antibodies revealed several weak bands ranging from 36 to 66 kDa, weak bands of 29 and 24 kDa, a strong band of about 20 kDa, a low band of molecular weight around 15 kDa and a weaker band of about 7 kDa. Spongiform degeneration was absent. Hyper-phosphorylated 3R and 4R tau occurred in dystrophic neurites surrounding PrPres plaques, neuropil threads and, to a lesser degree, in the form of neurofibrillary tangles. Gel electrophoresis of sarkosyl-insoluble fractions and western blotting with anti-phospho-tau antibodies showed a pattern similar to that seen in Alzheimer disease cases run in parallel. Dystrophic neurites in the vicinity of PrPres plaques were enriched in voltage dependent anion channel thus suggesting abnormal accumulation of mitochondria. These changes were associated with increased oxidative damage in neurons and astrocytes, Finally, increased expression of active stress kinases, that have the capacity to phosphorylate tau in vitro, p38 (p-38-P) and SAPK/ JNK (SAPK/JNK-P) was found in cell processes surrounding PrP plaques. Together, these observations provide evidences of mitochondrial abnormalities, and increased oxidative stress damage and oxidative stress responses in GSS bearing the PRNP P102L-129V mutation.
Combining erythropoeitin and bone marrow stromal cell therapy after stroke
Authors: Arias Laura , Chen Shaoyi , Hu Bingren , Sick Thomas
Published: March 2011

Both Erythropoietin (EPO) and bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) have been shown to improve outcome after stroke. EPO may improve outcome after stroke through its actions on blood progenitor cells, angiogenesis, or direct action in the CNS. BMSCs may improve outcome after stroke by regeneration, altering plasticity of viable cells, or prevention of cell death. Sorting out these potential modes of actions for EPO and BMSCs has been difficult using in vivo models of stroke. This study investigated neuroprotection afforded by EPO, BMSCs and the combination of these modalities in mouse hippocampal slice cultures after oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD). Significant neuroprotection was observed following post-injury treatment of slice cultures with BMSCs and neuroprotection was augmented by treating BMSCs with EPO. EPO alone did not protect neurons from OGD when given after injury, but was effective when given prior to OGD. The failure of EPO to protect when given after injury did not appear to result from its inability to activate EPO signaling pathways involving phosphorylation of Akt. This study supports the implication that BMSCs may rescue dying neurons after ischemia by providing trophic support. The data also show that EPO’s actions as a neuroprotective agent following stroke may be mediated by its actions on BMSCs.
Lipoastrocytoma: A case report
Authors: Pažanin Leo , Čupić Hrvoje , Radoš Marko , Jednačak Hrvoje , Paladino Josip
Published: March 2011

Lipidized tumours of the central nervous system are very rare. Lipidization of tumour cells is a histological hallmark of pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma and cerebellar neurolipocytoma and has been described in some other primary neuroepithelial tumours such as glioblastoma, cerebral primitive neuroectodermal tumour, central neurocytoma and ependymoma. However, a few cases of lipidized low-grade glial tumours that could not be classified to the fore mentioned categories have been reported, as well. We report a new case of such a tumour occupying the right temporal lobe in a 23-year old woman. Histologically, the tumour was composed of GFAP positive glial cells with areas of complete cell lipidization. More than a two years after the surgery, the patient is well and asymptomatic supporting presumed favourable clinical course of these rare tumours. The recommended treatment plan for these presumably benignant tumours should be continued with radiographic surveillance after the gross total resection.
HSV1 in Alzheimer’s disease: Myth or reality?
Authors: Špeljko Tea , Jutric David , Šimić Goran
Published: March 2011

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most frequent cause of dementia in the elderly, characterized by the presence of cerebral amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. The causes of the disease are not well understood, especially considering that more than 95% of AD patients are non-familial. Due to the similarity of brain regions affected in herpes simplex encephalitis to those mainly affected in AD, and owing to the very high prevalence of latent herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV1) infection, reactivation of HSV1 was proposed as one of the possible causes of AD. The trigeminal ganglion, located only a few millimeters from the entorhinal cortex, is the primary site of HSV1 latency, although other sites including the sensory neurons, the nodose ganglion of the vagus nerve and other regions of the brain may be involved, possibly in relation to very early neurofibrillary AD changes in the dorsal raphe, locus coeruleus and other brainstem nuclei. Novel data obtained upon infection of cultured neuronal cells and mouse brain with HSV1 further show that HSV1 infection causes intracellular amyloid-beta protein accumulation, as well as abnormal phosphorylation of tau protein, the major component of tangles. Another interesting fact is the existence of a significant degree of homology between HSV1 components and AD susceptibility genes. In this review we summarize findings that reveal connections between the two conditions, as well as different suggestions for the mechanisms of HSV1-induced AD. As most of the available results support a connection of AD and HSV1 infection, antiviral therapy should be taken into consideration for AD treatment following early diagnosis.
F. K. Studnička (1894): Fishes and amphibians also have the cerebral cortex
Authors: Judaš Miloš
Published: March 2011

The aim of this paper is to provide translation of probably the first report (Studnička 1894) demonstrating that the telencephalon of all vertebrate taxa (including fishes and amphibians) is characterized by the presence of the cerebral cortex (pallium). This report was one of those initiating a century-long and still not fully resolved discussion concerning homologies of various pallial subdivisions in different vertebrate taxa and probably the first to draw attention to the importance of careful study of the pallium in representatives of agnathans (Cyclostomes) such as lampreys (Petromyzonts) and hagfishes (Myxinoids). This article also briefly reviews the current status of comparative research on vertebrate telencephalon, and provides historical notes which position Studnička’s report in its historical context.
Biomass production of grey alder, hybrid alder and silver birch stands on abandoned agricultural land
Authors: Aosaar Jürgen , Uri Veiko
Published: March 2011

Halli lepa, hübriidlepa ja arukase biomassi produktsioon endistel põllumaadel

The present study is based on four experimental sites, located in Southern-Estonia: hybrid alder and grey alder plantations located in Põlva county, and two sample plots of silver birch, located in Tartu county. The stand characteristics, above-ground biomass and current annual production (CAP) were estimated in order to evaluate production capacity of different tree species growing on abandoned agricultural lands. Due to fast growth and high biomass production capacity the most promising tree species for short-rotation forestry in Estonia is grey alder. The stem mass in the 13-years-old grey alder and hybrid alder stand was 63.4 t ha-1 and 40.0 t ha-1, respectively. However, the different biomass production is mainly affected by stand densities, 6170 trees per ha and 4080 trees per ha, respectively. During ageing, the differences between the alder stands diminish. At the age of 14, mean height and diameter at breast height were practically equal. Also the mean stem mass in the older, 13-year old stand, is almost equal: 10.3 kg in grey alder stand and 9.8 kg in hybrid alder stand. At a younger age, the mean stem mass was higher in grey alder stand, but later, at the age of 13, the mean stem mass has become almost the same (10.3 kg in grey alder stand and 9.8 kg in hybrid alder stand). The rotation period for hybrid alder is longer than for grey alder and bulk maturity will occur later. Silver birch is also a highly productive tree species and has a prospect for short-rotation forestry. The mean stem mass and annual current increment of 8-year-old silver birch stand was in same the magnitude as in the grey alder stand. Although the average stand diameter and height were lower in the silver birch stand than in the grey alder stand, it is compensated by the higher wood density of birch wood. The number of trees has affected silver birch stand production, the above-ground biomass in the very high density birch stand (35 600 trees per ha) was significantly lower than in the sparse stand (11 600 trees per ha), 22.8 t ha-1 and 31.2 t ha-1, respectively.
Anatomical structure and localisation of lignin in needles and shoots of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) growing in a habitat with varying environmental characteristics
Authors: Lukjanova Aljona , Mandre Malle
Published: March 2011

Anatomical structure and localisation of lignin in needles and shoots of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) growing in a habitat with varying environmental characteristics

We investigated the influence of a habitat with varying environmental characteristics on the anatomical structure and localisation of lignin in needles and shoots of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.). A dune in South-West Estonia was chosen as the study area because it has extreme environmental characteristics: primitive sandy soil, deficiency of water, heavy winds and high light exposure. Analysis showed that the needles of all age and the current-year shoots of pines growing on the foot of the dune had the largest average cross section, mesophyll and parenchyma areas. The degree of the lignification of needles at the foot, on the slope and on the top of the dune differed distinctly. Intensive lignification of the cellular walls of the xylem was observed in needles and shoots of the pines, growing at the foot, but not in the trees growing on the top of the dune. Analysis showed that the anatomical structure and localisation of lignin, both in needles and in shoots, depend on their age, the trees location (foot, slope or top of the dune) and soil mineral composition.
Changes of coastal dune landscapes in Estonia
Authors: Ratas Urve , Rivis Reimo , Käärt Kaija
Published: March 2011

Changes of coastal dune landscapes in Estonia

Coastal landscapes are strongly affected by their geomorphology, based on the character of deposits and moisture conditions. The main influences on the aeolian ecosystems of coastal areas are heavy winds, salt spray and lack of nutrients. An increase in the frequency of storms in coastal waters may result in the erosion of beaches that were previously stable or prograding. Coastal dune ecosystems are in different stages of vegetation succession and soil development. At present coastal dune landscapes are being rapidly changed by waves and human impact. In the last decade, research on the geomorphologic changes of the coast in Estonia has been quite noteworthy, but the associated changes in ecosystems have been little considered. The main problem for coastal dunes landscape is the decrease of natural habitats due to afforestation, recreation and building. In this paper our attention is focused on changes of Estonian coastal dune landscapes during the last one hundred years.
Factors influencing the species composition and richness of herb layer in old boreo-nemoral forests
Authors: Sepp Toivo , Liira Jaan
Published: March 2011

Vanade salumetsade rohurinde koosseis ja seda mõjutavad tegurid

We aimed to study the composition of herb layer in old Estonian boreonemoral forests (Aegopodium and Hepatica forest site-types) and estimate factors that influence the vegetation. Besides forest management and other anthropogenic disturbances, stand age, geographic location and tree species composition were analysed as potential driving factors. We surveyed 169 forests, mostly as a contrasting pair of intensively managed and possibly near-natural forest within each sub-region of a forest site-type. Later, for analyses, we reclassified forests into three groups by weighted summing of the observed signs of disturbances. Analyses revealed the distinction in herb layer composition among forest site-types and dominant-tree species. Geographic location of a stand also appeared to affect the understorey, while stand age had no statistically significant impact on herb layer in old and over-matured forests. We did not detect explicitly the direct effect of forest management and disturbances on herb layer composition and diversity. However, indirectly, only in Hepatica site-type, the management increased herb layer species richness and the proportion of graminoids, by providing more light via reduced closure of a stand. Species characteristic of managed stands were mostly light-demanding, dry soil tolerant and apophytic species. Undisturbed stands were characterized by presence of nemoral and vernal herbs that typically grow in broad-leaved or mixed stands. Consequently, the dominance of conifers in managed forest, can limit the growth of characteristic species of boreonemoral forest site-types. Therefore, to improve the state of plant diversity in boreo-nemoral forests, tree species diversity and small-sized gap-initiation should be supported.
Alvar forest of Harjumaa district
Authors: Paal Jaanus , Rajandu Elle , Rooma Igna
Published: March 2011

Harjumaa loometsad

Alvar forests in Harjumaa district, NW and N Estonia, were studied. Eight community types were established: (i) Inula salicina-Potentilla fruticosa-Pinus sylvestris, (ii) Carex panicea-C. cespitosa-Pinus sylvestris-Betula pubescens, (iii) Filipendula vulgaris-Brachypodium pinnatum-Pinus sylvestris, (iv) Brachypodium pinnatum-Calamagrostis arundinacea-Picea abies-Pinus sylvestris, (v) Hepatica nobilis-Brachypodium pinnatum-Picea abies-Pinus sylvestris, (vi) Paris quadrifolia-Anemone nemorosa-Fraxinus excelsior, (vii) Mercurialis perennis-Picea abies, and (viii) Pulmonaria obscura-Viola mirabilis-Betula pendula-Picea abies. The 2nd community type represents the Sesleria alvar forest site type (FST) habitats, while communities of the 1st, 3rd and 4th types belong to the Calamagrostis alvar FST. These communities grow mainly on medium thick or thin Calcaric Skeletic Regosols, less frequently on thin Renzic Leptosols or on other types of soil. Other communities qualified by forest inventory as alvar forests factually belong to the boreo-nemoral Hepatica FST (communities of 5th type) and Aegopodium FST (communities of 6th, 7th and 8th types). Alvar forests are characterized by remarkably high species diversity deriving first of all from the number of field and moss layer species. The number of species in all layers, except moss layer, depends significantly from the community type reflecting in integrated form effect of communities' structure. Diversity of field layer species is positively affected by the ratio of carbon and nitrogen content in soil humus horizon, whereas the higher abundance of pine trees has negative effect on the species number in moss layer.
The ecological status of Puhatu cutover peatland
Authors: Ots Katri , Kikamägi Karin , Kuznetsova Tatjana
Published: March 2011

Puhatu ammendatud jääksoo ökoloogilisest seisundist

The aim of the present study was estimation of the ecological status of Puhatu cutover peatland in Norteast Estonia. Results of the samples showed that the pH of peat in Puhatu cutover peatland was in the range 5.1-5.5. The nutrients concentrations of peat (%) varied as follows: total N 2.1-2.9, total P 0.016-0.032, K 0.004-0.02, Ca 1.2-3.5 and Mg 0.08-0.2. The height of pines was 3.0 ± 0.6 m and height growth in current year was up to 73 cm. Comparison of our results with the scale presented by Ingestad suggests that the content of P, K and Mg in pine needles and birch leaves is lower and Ca content significantly higher than the optimum level.
Stand structure links up canopy processes and forest management
Authors: Frey Toomas
Published: March 2011

Stand structure links up canopy processes and forest management

Above- and belowground biomass and net primary production (P
n) of a maturing Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) forest (80 years old) established on brown soil in central Estonia were 227, 50 and 19.3 Mg ha correspondingly. Stand structure is determined mostly by mean height and stand density, used widely in forestry, but both are difficult to measure with high precision in respect of canopy processes in individual trees. However, trunk form quotient (q
2) and proportion of living crown in relation to tree height are useful parameters allowing describe stand structure tree by tree. Based on 7 model trees, leaf unit mass assimilation activity and total biomass respiration per unit mass were determined graphically as mean values for the whole tree growth during 80 years of age. There are still several possible approaches not used carefully enough to integrate experimental work at instrumented towers with actual forestry measurement. Dependence of physiological characteristics on individual tree parameters is the missing link between canopy processes and forest management.
The influence of seed origin on stand variables of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) provenance trial in Ahunapalu
Authors: Maaten Tiit , Kurm Malle , Kiviste Andres , Loks Mihkel
Published: March 2011

Seemnete päritolupiirkonna mõju hariliku männi (Pinus sylvestris L.) puistu takseerandmetele Ahunapalu geograafilises katsekultuuris

The aim of the present study is to analyse the influence of seed origin on the growth performance in Scots pine provenance trial at the age of 33 and 43 years. The provenance trial plantation with 18 provenances of Scots pine were established in Estonia, Järvselja Training and Experimental Forest District (58°19'47, 21"N. Lat. and 27°16'2, 79"E. Long) under the supervision of E. Pihelgas in 1965, using seeds from different regions of the former Soviet Union. The northernmost seeds were received from Arhangelsk province, Russia, (63° N. Lat.) and the southernmost seeds from Borjomi Forest Enterprise, Georgia, situated 800 m above sea level (42° N. Lat.). The westernmost seeds were from Latvia, Lithuania and Ukraine (23-24° E. Long.). Seeds of Estonian pine seedlings originated from the forest districts of Järvselja, Sõmeru, Vihula, Sagadi and Koorküla. Data used for above-mentioned study was collected during the years 1998 and 2008.

Statistical analysis was conducted using the software package R. The statistical analysis of the data obtained from provenance trials showed that under Estonian circumstances density, height and breast height diameter were stand variable which were depending on seed origin the most. The average survival percentage of progenies from southern provenances (with the northern latitude less than 52°) was lower than that in case of the progenies of the northern seed origin; a strong linear relationship was found between the stand breast height diameter and the northern latitude of seed provenance. The average breast height diameter of the stands from southern origin was larger than that of the stands from northern origin, whereas the plots of northern seed provenances had bigger survival percentage (density) than that of plots grown from southern seeds. Thus, the plots of northern seed origin had poorer conditions for diameter growth. The stands of northern seed provenance had slightly lower average height than that in the stands of southern seed origin.
Estimation of crown and canopy cover from airborne lidar data
Authors: Lang Mait
Published: March 2011

Metsa katvuse ja liituse hindamine lennukilt laserskanneriga

Tests were carried out in mature Scots pine, Norway spruce and Silver birch stands at Järvselja, Estonia, to estimate canopy cover (K) and crown cover (L) from airborne lidar data. Independent estimates Kc
and Lc
for K and L were calculated from the Cajanus tube readings made on the ground at 1.3 m height. Lidar data based cover estimates depended on the inclusion of different order returns significantly. In all the stands first order return based estimate K1
was biased positively (3-10%) at the reference height of 1.3 m compared to ground measurements. All lidar based estimates decreased with increasing the reference height. Single return (Ky
) and all return (Kk
) based canopy cover estimates depended more on the sand structure compared to K1
. The ratio of all return count to the first return count D behaved like crown cover estimate in all stands. However, in spruce stand D understimated Lc
significantly. In the Scots pine stand K1
(1.3) = 0.7431 was most similar canopy cover estimate relative to the ground estimate Kc
= 0,7362 whereas Ky
(1.3) and Kk
(1.3) gave significant underestimates (>15%) of K. Caused by the simple structure of Scots pine stand - only one layer pine trees, the Cajanus tube based canopy cover (Kc
), crown cover (Lc
) and lidar data based canopy density D(1.3) values were rather similar. In the Norway spruce stand and in the Silver birch stand second layer and regeneration trees were present. In the Silver birch stand Kk
(1.3) and Ky
(1.3) estimated Kc
rather well. In the Norway spruce stand Ky
(1.3) and K1
(1.3) were the best estimators of Kc
whereas Kk
(1.3) underestimated canopy cover. Lidar data were found to be usable for canopy cover and crown cover assessment but the selection of the estimator is not trivial and depends on the stand structure.