bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A B3LYP Study on Repair of Guanyl and 8-Oxoguanyl Radical by Simultaneous Proton- and Electron-Transfer Reaction
Authors: Yamamura Mami , Ichino Tomoya , Yoshioka Yasunori
Published: February 2011

The proton transfers in base pairs of guanine (G)/8-oxoguanine (8G), 8G+•–C, PhOH–G(-H)•, PhOH–8G(-H)•, and 8G–G(-H)•, have been theoretically examined in the gas phase at the B3LYP level of theory. For the 8G+•–C base pair, the single proton transfer proceeds from N1(8G+•) to N3(C) with the activation energy of 2.2 kcal mol−1. The repairs of G(-H)• and 8G(-H)• bases to G and 8G have been studied by reaction with phenol, and the repair of G(-H)• base has been also studied for the pair with the 8G base. These three reactions proceed under the PCET mechanism, in which the proton transfers through the σ-path, while the electron transfers through the π-path. For reactions with PhO• and G(-H)•, 8G easily delivers a proton and electron to yield PhOH and G. It is expected that 8G functions to protect other bases and amino acids from oxidation.
Theoretical Insights into the Enantioselectivity and Mechanism of Diels–Alder Reactions Involving Chiral Cationic Oxazaborolidinium Catalyst
Authors: Omar Nasr Y M , Rahman Noorsaadah A , Zain Sharifuddin Md
Published: February 2011

The chiral oxazaborolidinium ion catalyzed Diels–Alder reaction between 2-methyl-1,3-butadiene and 2,3-dimethyl-1,4-benzoquinone was studied by means of density functional theory (DFT) at the B3LYP/6-31G(d) level of theory. Different DFT-based theoretical approaches including the reaction force, the natural population analysis of the charge transfer, the topological analysis of the electron localization function (ELF), and the global and local reactivity indices were applied to investigate and rationalize the mechanism and the endo/exo selectivity of this reaction. The changes in the physical and chemical properties of the reacting molecules along the intrinsic reaction coordinate (IRC) were also monitored to shed light on the mechanistic details. The analysis of the studied Diels–Alder reaction within the framework of DFT revealed and explained the preference of the endo path to the exo channel, and pointed out a concerted but highly asynchronous reaction mechanism.
Synthesis of (−)-Cephalosporolide D Using an Iterative Acetylene–Epoxide Coupling Strategy
Authors: Sabitha Gowravaram , Reddy Teega Rammohan , Ramesh Muddala , Srinivas Chitti , Yadav Jhillu Singh
Published: February 2011

The synthesis of an eight-membered lactone, cephalosporolide D is described using an iterative acetylene–epoxide coupling strategy. The terminal triple bond compound prepared in situ from the known epoxy chloride was coupled with (R)-methyloxirane to afford the propargyl alcohol. The selective protection of the propargylic hydroxy group as TBS ether followed by reduction of the triple bond gave the saturated alcohol. Removal of THP group followed by selective oxidation of the primary hydroxy group was achieved using BAIB–TEMPO to furnish the aldehyde, which was converted to the corresponding acid by Pinnick oxidation, followed by Yamaguchi lactonization and finally removal of the TBS group afforded the target molecule. A concise synthesis of (−)-cephalosporolide D is described. The salient features are the utilization of acetylene–epoxide coupling strategy and Yamaguchi lactonization.
Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis following Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Retrospective Comparison of Unfractionated Heparin, Enoxaparin, and Fondaparinux
Authors: Foley Christina , Ottinger Joseph G.
Published: February 2011

Purpose

The objective of this study was to retrospectively review the efficacy and safety of unfractionated heparin (UFH), enoxaparin, and fondaparinux for venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention following acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was conducted of VTE and major bleeding event rates in patients receiving UFH, enoxaparin, or fondaparinux for VTE prophylaxis following ischemic stroke. This review included charts from an 18-month period at all facilities in the Lehigh Valley Health Network. A total of 889 patients were evaluated.

Results

There was no significant difference between the 3 anticoagulants for the primary outcome of VTE with an incidence of 2.5% (n=9) for UFH, 1.2% (n=3) for enoxaparin, and 0.4% (n=1) for fondaparinux ( P = .065). However, the incidence of major bleeding events was significantly different with an occurrence of 6.2% (n=22) for UFH, 3.2% (n=8) for enoxaparin, and 0.7% (n=2) for fondaparinux ( P = .001). A comparison of the individual agents showed that UFH had a significantly higher rate of major bleeding events when compared to fondaparinux ( P = .003).

Conclusions

In this study population, UFH was observed to increase the risk of major bleeding events in ischemic stroke patients receiving subsequent VTE prophylaxis. Additionally, the possibility of using fondaparinux for VTE prophylaxis in ischemic stroke patients appears to provide at least comparable safety and efficacy compared to UFH and enoxaparin. However, more studies are needed to determine the ideal anticoagulant and timing of prophylaxis in patients following ischemic stroke.
Fingolimod
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri L. , Baker Danial E.
Published: February 2011

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent in print and are also available on-line. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The February 2011 monograph topics are on denosumab ( Xgeva), eribulin mesylate, tesamorelin, vandetanib, and boceprevir. The DUE/MUE is on acetaminophen intravenous.
Developing Patient-Centered Services, Part 2: Building a Hybrid Pharmacy Practice Model
Authors: Jenkins Matthew , Mark Scott M. , Saenz Rafael , Maslonek Kimberly , Zagacki Adam
Published: February 2011

The Director's Forum series is edited by Robert Weber and Scott Mark and is designed to guide pharmacy leaders in establishing patient-centered services in hospitals and health systems. We had originally planned a 2-part series on developing a pharmacy practice model that is patient centered; but because of the response, we have expanded the series to 4 parts. This month's article is the second in the series. This article provides the pharmacy director with a primer on the types, development, and implementation characteristics of pharmacy practice models.
Recent Publications on Medications and Pharmacy
Authors: Russett Flint
Published: February 2011

Hospital Pharmacy presents this feature to keep pharmacists abreast of new publications in the medical/pharmacy literature. Articles of interest regarding a broad scope of topics are abstracted monthly.
Dakin's Solution Accidentally Given Intravenously; Perilous Infection Control Practices with Needles, Syringes, and Vials Suggest Stepped-up Monitoring is Needed; Taxotere Concentration and Preparation; Update on Metal in Drug Patches
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L.
Published: February 2011

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
CODOX-M/IVAC for non-Hodgkin Lymphomas
Authors: Zomp Amanda , Solimando Dominic A. , Waddell J. Aubrey
Published: February 2011

The complexity of cancer chemotherapy requires pharmacists be familiar with the complicated regimens and highly toxic agents used. This column reviews various issues related to preparation, dispensing, and administration of antineoplastic therapy, and the agents, both commercially available and investigational, used to treat malignant diseases.
Short-Term Treadmill Running as a Model for Studying Cell-Free DNA Kinetics In Vivo
Authors: Beiter Thomas , Fragasso Annunziata , Hudemann Jens , Nieß Andreas M , Simon Perikles
Published: February 2011

BACKGROUND

Increased plasma concentrations of cell-free DNA (cf-DNA) are considered a hallmark of various clinical conditions. Despite intensive research in this field, limited data are available concerning the time course of release and clearance of cf-DNA in vivo.

METHODS

We extracted cf-DNA from plasma samples taken before and immediately after a 10-km cross-country run, and from samples taken before, immediately after, and 30 min after exhaustive short-term treadmill exercise. The contribution of nuclear (nDNA) and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. The incremental treadmill exercise setup was exploited to delineate the precise sequencing and timing of cf-nDNA, lactate, and high-mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) release during the exercise and recovery phases.

RESULTS

Postexercise plasma cf-nDNA concentrations in cross-country and treadmill runners were significantly increased, by 7.6-fold and 9.9-fold, respectively (P < 0.001). cf-nDNA concentrations were not correlated with age, sex, or body mass index. Plasma concentrations of cf-nDNA and HMGB1 in postexercise samples of treadmill runners were significantly correlated (r = 0.84; P = 0.004). cf-mtDNA concentrations were not affected by treadmill exercise. Time-course analyses demonstrated that cf-nDNA is released within minutes after the onset of exercise and is rapidly cleared from the circulation after the cessation of exercise. Nearly congruent kinetics for cf-nDNA, lactate, and HMGB1 were observed during the exercise phase.

CONCLUSIONS

A single bout of exhaustive short-term treadmill exercise constitutes a versatile model system suitable for addressing basic questions about cf-DNA biology.
On the application of electrochemical techniques for the preparation of 57Co source core, encapsulation and quality evaluation for radiometric assay of nuclear fuel rods
Authors: Dash Ashutosh , Kumar Manoj , Udhayakumar J. , Gandhi S.S. , Satpati A. K. , Nuwad J. , Shukla Rakesh , Pillai C. G. S. , Venkatesh Meera , Venugopal V.
Published: February 2011

This paper describes an electrochemical method for the preparation of 57Co source to be used in quality evaluation of nuclear fuel rods. The electrolytic cell, the experimental set up used and the process of deposition are described. The effect of various parameters such as pH of the electrolyte, bath temperature, current density, content of cobalt in the bath, electrolyte volume in the cell and deposition time were investigated and optimized for maximum deposition. The texture and morphology of the electrodeposited samples were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), SEM and EDS analyses. Sources containing ∼370 MBq (10 mCi) 57Co on a circular copper foil of 4 mm diameter could be prepared and encapsulated in an aluminum capsule. Quality assurance tests performed to ensure non-leachability, uniform distribution of activity and stability of the sources gave satisfactory results.
Semi-quantitative and quantitative studies on the gamma radiolysis of C5-BTBP
Authors: Fermvik Anna , Grüner Bohumir , Kvíčalová Magdaléna , Ekberg Christian
Published: February 2011

An industrial liquid–liquid extraction process for reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel will inevitably lead to radiolysis of the phases, since the process streams contain highly radioactive species. Solvents containing one of the BTBP (6,6′-bis(5,6-dialkyl-[1,2,4]-triazin-3-yl)-2,2′-bipyridine) molecules intended for the separation of trivalent actinides (An) from lanthanides (Ln), the so called C5-BTBP, have shown a dramatic decrease in both distribution ratios and An/Ln separation factor when irradiated; hence, the molecule is highly unstable towards radiolysis.

HPLC-, APCI(+)-MS and LC-MS analyses were performed on irradiated solvents containing initially 0.005 M C5-BTBP dissolved in either hexanol or cyclohexanone. The decrease in concentration of starting molecule as well as the increase in concentration of various degradation products were studied with quantitative and semi-quantitative measurements. Structures were suggested for the degradation products produced in highest yields and these were compared to previously proposed structures for the same products.
Congenital IGF1 deficiency tends to confer protection against post-natal development of malignancies
Authors: Steuerman Rachel , Shevah Orit , Laron Zvi
Published: February 2011

Objective

To investigate whether congenital IGF1 deficiency confers protection against development of malignancies, by comparing the prevalence of malignancies in patients with congenital (secondary) deficiency of IGF1 with the prevalence of cancer in their family members.

Method

Only patients with an ascertained diagnosis of either Laron syndrome (LS), congenital IGHD, congenital multiple pituitary hormone deficiency (cMPHD) including GH or GHRHR defect were included in this study. In addition to our own patients, we performed a worldwide survey and collected data on a total of 538 patients, 752 of their first-degree family members, of which 274 were siblings and 131 were further family members.

Results

We found that none of the 230 LS patients developed cancer and that only 1 out of 116 patients with congenital IGHD, also suffering from xeroderma pigmentosum, had a malignancy. Out of 79 patients with GHRHR defects and out of 113 patients with congenital MPHD, we found three patients with cancer in each group.

Among the first-degree family members (most heterozygotes) of LS, IGHD and MPHD, we found 30 cases of cancer and 1 suspected. In addition, 31 malignancies were reported among 131 further relatives.

Conclusions

Our findings bear heavily on the relationship between GH/IGF1 and cancer. Homozygous patients with congenital IGF1 deficiency and insensitivity to GH such as LS seem protected from future cancer development, even if treated by IGF1. Patients with congenital IGHD also seem protected.
Local control of thyroid hormone action: role of type 2 deiodinase
Authors: Williams Graham R , Bassett J H Duncan
Published: February 2011

The thyroid gland predominantly secretes the pro-hormone thyroxine (T4) that is converted to the active hormone 3,5,3′-l-triiodothyronine (T3) in target cells. Conversion of T4 to T3 is catalyzed by the type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase enzyme (DIO2), and T3 action in target tissues is determined by DIO2-regulated local availability of T3 to its nuclear receptors, TRα and TRβ. Studies of Dio2 knockout mice have revealed new and important roles for the enzyme during development and in adulthood in diverse tissues including the cochlea, skeleton, brown fat, pituitary, and hypothalamus. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms by which DIO2 controls intracellular T3 availability and action.
Assessment of follicular development in cryopreserved primate ovarian tissue by xenografting: prepubertal tissues are less sensitive to the choice of cryoprotectant
Authors: von Schönfeldt V , Chandolia R , Kiesel L , Nieschlag E , Schlatt S , Sonntag B
Published: February 2011

Improvements in cancer survival rates have renewed interest in the cryopreservation of ovarian tissue for fertility preservation. We used the marmoset as a non-human primate model to assess the effect of different cryoprotectives on follicular viability of prepubertal compared to adult ovarian tissue following xenografting. Cryopreservation was performed with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), 1,2-propanediol (PrOH), or ethylene glycol (EG) using a slow freezing protocol. Subsequently, nude mice received eight grafts per animal from the DMSO and the PrOH groups for a 4-week grafting period. Fresh, cryopreserved–thawed, and xenografted tissues were serially sectioned and evaluated for the number and morphology of follicles. In adult tissue, the percentage of morphologically normal primordial follicles significantly decreased from 41.2±4.5% (fresh) to 13.6±1.8 (DMSO), 9.5±1.7 (PrOH), or 6.8±1.0 (EG) following cryopreservation. After xenografting, the percentage of morphologically normal primordial (26.2±2.5%) and primary follicles (28.1±5.4%) in the DMSO group was significantly higher than that in the PrOH group (12.2±3 and 5.4±2.1% respectively). Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) staining suggests the resumption of proliferative activity in all cellular compartments. In prepubertal tissues, primordial but not primary follicles display a similar sensitivity to cryopreservation, and no significant differences between DMSO and PrOH following xenografting were observed. In conclusion, DMSO shows a superior protective effect on follicular morphology compared with PrOH and EG in cryopreserved tissues. Xenografting has confirmed better efficacy of DMSO versus PrOH in adult but not in prepubertal tissues, probably owing to a greater capacity of younger animals to compensate for cryoinjury.
IGF2, IGF binding protein 1, and matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in implantation-stage endometrium following immunoneutralization of vascular endothelial growth factor in the rhesus monkey
Authors: Ghosh D , Najwa A R , Khan M A , Sengupta J
Published: February 2011

Blastocyst implantation in the rhesus monkey is inhibited by administration of antibody against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) A during peri-implantation period with no change in the circulatory concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, and VEGF. In this study, we have investigated the effect of administration of a MAB to VEGFA on days 5 and 10 after ovulation upon the mRNA expression, immunopositive protein expression, and immunohistological localization of IGF2, IGF binding protein 1 (IGFBP1) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 2 and 9 in the implantation-stage endometrium collected on day 13 after ovulation from fecund cycles of rhesus monkeys. The comparison between isotype-matched IgG (control; n=8)- and VEGF antibody (VEGF Mab; n=8)-treated animals revealed higher (P<0.05) IGF2 in lacunar and villous syncytiotrophoblasts, trophoblast cell columns, migrating extravillous trophoblast cells, and endovascular trophoblast cells in control animals, but with no change in the various cell types of maternal endometrium between the two groups. No change in IGFBP1 expression in the endometrium was observed between the two groups. MMPs 2 and 9 were detected in syncytiotrophoblast in lacunae and villi, trophoblast cell columns, and extravillous trophoblast cells in control samples. MMP9 transcript expression in maternal endometrium and its immunopositivity in endometrial stroma and trophoblast cells were lower (P<0.05) with no change in MMP2 level in VEGF Mab-exposed samples compared with those in control samples. A functional network involving VEGF, IGF2, and MMP9 in early placental trophoblast cells and maternal endometrium appears to be important for normal placentation.
Restless legs syndrome: the most prevalent “unknown” disorder
Authors: Lindner Anett , Novák Márta , Molnár Miklós Zsolt
Published: February 2011

Sleep disorders are also considered as significant chronic disorders, as their physiological and psycho-social consequences are well documented. Restless legs syndrome has high prevalence, as it occurs in 5–10 % of the general population. Since clinical presentation is not well appreciated by many of the health care professionals, only a small proportion of the patients with restless legs syndrome is diagnosed and treated. The consequences of disease, however, are not negligible. The majority of the patients suffer from insomnia, impaired daytime functioning and quality of life. Although, restless legs syndrome is frequently characterized as a sleep disorder, it does not only influence sleep but also the daytime functioning of the patients. Additionally, restless legs syndrome causes not only subjective complaints and sleep disruption, but it is also associated with cardiovascular disorders. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 259–266.
Leprosy – a stigmata in the 21st century
Authors: Falus Orsolya
Published: February 2011

For the initiation of the French journalist Raoul Follereau in 1954 the UNO inaugurated the Leprosy Day (Martyr’s Day) that is celebrated on the last Sunday of January every year. Although the bacterium that causes leprosy was isolated by the Norwegian scientist Gerhard Henrik Armauer Hansen in 1873 and from 1982 this disease can be cured with a special pharmaceutical complex, still 219.826 new leprous are detected on Earth every year, according to the data published in August, 2010 by WHO-experts. Ancient Chinese and Hindu source-strings from 600 B. C. are referring to leprosy, however, the disease was imported by the army of Alexander the Great from India around 327-326 B. C. Even the Old and the New Testament from the Holy Bible are mentioning leprosy in several details. During the Middle Ages the Military and Hospitaller Order of St. Lazarus of Jerusalem, established in the Holy Land in 72 A. D., did pioneer work in nursing leprous. In the process of time the medical attendance concerning leprous was organized in special hospitals called „leprosoriums” built on river-banks. Special office and even services were organized for the treatment and isolation of the people infected. Although medical science has prevailed against leprosy, and almost simultaneously even jurisprudence defended the patients’ rights via legislation, still mankind can regrettably not get rid of this disease that stigmatizes seriously. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 246–251.
Performance of geocomposite and granular drains under irrigation canal linings
Authors: Khosravi A.A. , Rahimi H. , Eskandari G.H.
Published: February 2011

ABSTRACT: In many irrigation projects, where the groundwater table is high, part of the canal may be located below the water table. In such cases the groundwater would apply uplift pressure to the bottom and side panels of the lining. This phenomenon may cause deformation, displacement or rupture of the concrete panels, or other damage, which would cause high maintenance costs for the project. The most effective way to control the uplift pressure is to provide a filter drainage system under the canal lining. At present, granular filters are the most common material in use. However, the application of granular materials is not an easy task in some cases, owing to the high costs involved, and the environmental impacts. Therefore, in recent years, geosynthetic materials (geocomposites) have been employed as a replacement for granular filters. In the present study, the behaviour of geocomposite material as a filter drainage layer under canal lining has been investigated, using a physical laboratory model. The results of the experiments show that a geocomposite layer with adequate thickness can fully relieve the uplift pressure and discharge the drained water effectively. The efficiencies of the filter drainage under the bottom concrete panels, as well as under the bottom and side concrete panels, were studied. The results show that providing a filter under the side panels has no significant effect on the drainage capacity of the system.
Effects of bond crushing on the settlements of shallow foundations on soft rocks
Authors: NOVA R. , PARMA M.
Published: February 2011

The paper presents a model capable of describing the behaviour of shallow foundations on soft rocks when subjected to eccentric loading. The model is based on the concept of a ‘macroelement'. According to this concept, the foundation and the subsoil can be seen as a unique volume element. A mathematical relationship is established that links the force and moment acting on the foundation and the corresponding displacement and rotation, as if they were generalised stresses and strains, respectively. This relationship is based on the theory of hardening plasticity, with two hardening variables, both functions of the permanent generalised strains. It is assumed that the second of such variables, connected to the action of intergranular bonds, monotonically decreases as strains progress and bonds crush. It is shown that the model can reproduce quite well the observed displacement and rotation of a model circular foundation on a layer of calcarenite. A parametric study also highlights that the model can in principle predict the phenomenon of collapse, actually experienced by foundations on high-porosity rocks when a certain generalised stress or strain threshold is reached. It is suggested that such a phenomenon can take place when bonds are characterised by high strength that is rapidly decreasing with strain. It is finally shown that weathering-induced collapse under constant external loading can also, in principle, be modelled in this framework.
Numerical study on plate anchor stability in clay
Authors: YU L. , LIU J. , KONG X.-J. , HU Y.
Published: February 2011

Although the pullout capacity of plate anchors in clay has been studied extensively, the results considering the coupling effects of anchor inclination, clay non-homogeneity and self-weight are relatively rare. In the present paper, finite-element analyses are carried out to investigate the coupling effects of these factors on the pullout capacity of strip plate anchors in clay. The numerical solutions are presented in the familiar form of pullout capacity factors based on various anchor embedment depth, clay strength profile and clay self weight, and are also compared with existing numerical and empirical solutions. A design procedure based on the data-fitting equations of the present finite-element solutions is also presented for the convenience of design engineers.
Large-displacement interface shear between steel and granular media
Authors: HO T.Y.K. , JARDINE R.J. , ANH-MINH N.
Published: February 2011

A systematic study is reported of the behaviour of graded silica sands and a silica rock flour silt, sheared against steel interfaces. Ring shear experiments investigated the influences of interface position, displacement scale, normal stress level and particle size distribution on ultimate interface friction angle, [Formula: see text]. Grain crushing is shown to play an important role within a concentrated shear zone, and this process, along with changes in the roughness of the interface, could lead to δ′ values markedly different from those developed in conventional small-displacement direct shear tests. It is also shown that δ′ measurements at smaller displacements may depend on whether the interface is mounted above or below the sample, but that such differences diminish to zero when displacements are large. The finding that δ′ is strongly displacement-dependent over the single-millimetre to multiple-metre scale has many practical geotechnical engineering implications.
Shifting phenology and abundance under experimental warming alters trophic relationships and plant reproductive capacity
Authors: Liu Yinzhan , Reich Peter B. , Li Guoyong , Sun Shucun
Published: February 2011

Phenological mismatches due to climate change may have important ecological consequences. In a three‐year study, phenological shifts due to experimental warming markedly altered trophic relationships between plants and insect herbivores, causing a dramatic decline of reproductive capacity for one of the plant species. In a Tibetan meadow, the gentian (Gentiana formosa) typically flowers after the peak larva density of a noctuid moth (Melanchra pisi) that primarily feeds on a dominant forb (anemone, Anemone trullifolia var. linearis). However, artificial warming of ∼1.5°C advanced gentian flower phenology and anemone vegetative phenology by a week, but delayed moth larvae emergence by two weeks. The warming increased larval density 10‐fold, but decreased anemone density by 30%. The phenological and density shifts under warmed conditions resulted in the insect larvae feeding substantially on the gentian flowers and ovules; there was ∼100‐fold more damage in warmed than in unwarmed chambers. This radically increased trophic connection reduced gentian plant reproduction and likely contributed to its reduced abundance in the warmed chambers.
Microbial risk assessment for recreational use of the Chicago Area Waterway System
Authors: Rijal G. , Tolson J. K. , Petropoulou C. , Granato T. C. , Glymph A. , Gerba C. , Deflaun M. F. , O’Connor C. , Kollias L. , Lanyon R.
Published: February 2011

A microbial risk assessment was conducted to estimate the human health risks from incidental contact recreational activities such as canoeing, boating and fishing in the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS) receiving secondary treated, but non-disinfected, effluent from three municipal water reclamation plants. Actual concentrations of the pathogens (pathogenic E. coli [estimated], Giardia, Cryptosporidium, adenovirus, norovirus, enteric virus) detected from the waterway field data collection at locations upstream and downstream of the effluent outfall during dry and wet weather conditions within the recreation season were included in the risk assessment. The results under the current treatment scheme with no disinfection indicated that the total expected gastrointestinal illness (GI) rate per 1000 incidental contact recreational exposure events during combined weather (dry and wet) conditions ranged from 0.10 to 2.78 in the CAWS, which is below the eight illnesses per 1000 swimmers considered tolerable by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Wet weather conditions contribute to elevated pathogen load to the CAWS; therefore this study determined that disinfecting the effluents of three major WRPs that discharge to the CAWS would result in an extremely small reduction in the aggregate recreation season risk to incidental contact recreators.
Knowledge, attitudes, practices and implications of safe water management and good hygiene in rural Bangladesh: assessing the impact and scope of the BRAC WASH programme
Authors: Fisher Stephanie , Kabir Babar , Lahiff Edward , MacLachlan Malcolm
Published: February 2011

A substantial component of BRAC’s WASH programme involves educating rural Bangladeshis about safe water management, good hygiene and the causes of diarrhoea. By conducting questionnaires and focus group discussions in two BRAC WASH villages and one control village, this investigation sought to assess the impact of BRAC’s programme on knowledge, practices and diarrhoeal burden, to explore the extent to which knowledge determines practices, and to evaluate which factors were most predictive of diarrhoeal incidence. It was found that the programme had a beneficial effect on the subjects’ knowledge and practices, and on the diarrhoeal incidence among their children. Furthermore, except for where personal financial expenditure was required, practices tended to follow on from knowledge. However, BRAC’s intervention affected neither the frequency of soap use in handwashing by the mother, nor the child’s consumption of unclean water outside of the home. These factors, along with the child’s consumption of unclean water inside the home, were shown to be those most predictive of diarrhoeal incidence among the under-fives. It is recommended that BRAC continues to emphasize the importance of these points, while also potentially promoting the use of less costly alternatives to soap and cheaper point-of-use treatment materials, to induce positive behaviour change.
Variability of E. coli density and sources in an urban watershed
Authors: Wu J. , Rees P. , Dorner S.
Published: February 2011

The objective of this study was to characterize the variability of Escherichia coli density and sources in an urban watershed, particularly to focus on the influences of weather and land use. E. coli as a microbial indicator was measured at fourteen sites in four wet weather events and four dry weather conditions in the upper Blackstone River watershed. The sources of E. coli were identified by ribotyping. The results showed that wet weather led to sharp increases of E. coli densities. Interestingly, an intense storm of short duration led to a higher E. coli density than a moderate storm of long duration (p<0.01). The ribotyping patterns revealed microbial sources were mainly attributed to humans and wildlife, but varied in different weather conditions and were associated with the patterns of land use. Human sources accounted for 24.43% in wet weather but only 9.09% in dry weather. In addition, human sources were more frequently observed in residential zones (>30% of the total sources), while wildlife sources were dominant in open land and forest zones (54%). The findings provide useful information for developing optimal management strategies aimed at reducing the level of pathogens in urban watersheds.
Incorporating parameter uncertainty into Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA)
Authors: Donald Margaret , Mengersen Kerrie , Toze Simon , Sidhu Jatinder P.S. , Cook Angus
Published: February 2011

Modern statistical models and computational methods can now incorporate uncertainty of the parameters used in Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessments (QMRA). Many QMRAs use Monte Carlo methods, but work from fixed estimates for means, variances and other parameters. We illustrate the ease of estimating all parameters contemporaneously with the risk assessment, incorporating all the parameter uncertainty arising from the experiments from which these parameters are estimated. A Bayesian approach is adopted, using Markov Chain Monte Carlo Gibbs sampling (MCMC) via the freely available software, WinBUGS. The method and its ease of implementation are illustrated by a case study that involves incorporating three disparate datasets into an MCMC framework. The probabilities of infection when the uncertainty associated with parameter estimation is incorporated into a QMRA are shown to be considerably more variable over various dose ranges than the analogous probabilities obtained when constants from the literature are simply ‘plugged’ in as is done in most QMRAs. Neglecting these sources of uncertainty may lead to erroneous decisions for public health and risk management.
Amoebae and Legionella pneumophila in saline environments
Authors: Gast Rebecca J. , Moran Dawn M. , Dennett Mark R. , Wurtsbaugh Wayne A. , Amaral-Zettler Linda A.
Published: February 2011

Amoeboid protists that harbor bacterial pathogens are of significant interest as potential reservoirs of disease-causing organisms in the environment, but little is known about them in marine and other saline environments. We enriched amoeba cultures from sediments from four sites in the New England estuarine system of Mt. Hope Bay, Massachusetts and from sediments from six sites in the Great Salt Lake, Utah. Cultures of amoebae were enriched using both minimal- and non-nutrient agar plates, made with fresh water, brackish water or saltwater. Recovered amoeba cultures were assayed for the presence of Legionella species using nested polymerase chain reactions (PCR) and primers specific for the genus. Positive samples were then screened with nested amplification using primers specific for the macrophage infectivity potentiator surface protein (mip) gene from L. pneumophila. Forty-eight percent (185 out of 388) of isolated amoeba cultures were positive for the presence of Legionella species. Legionella pneumophila was detected by PCR in 4% of the amoeba cultures (17 out of 388), and most of these amoebae were growing on marine media. Our results show that amoebae capable of growing in saline environments may harbor not only a diverse collection of Legionella species, but also species potentially pathogenic to humans.
Pathogen destruction and solids decomposition in composting latrines: study of fundamental mechanisms and user operation in rural Panama
Authors: Mehl Jessica , Kaiser Josephine , Hurtado Daniel , Gibson Daragh A. , Izurieta Ricardo , Mihelcic James R.
Published: February 2011

The relationship between temperature, high pH, desiccation, decomposition, pathogen destruction, and user operation in active double vault urine diverting (DVUD) composting latrines located in the Bocas del Toro region of Panama was assessed. Latrine samples were analyzed for temperature, pH, % moisture, carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio, and presence of specific pathogens. Surveys and visual inspections were used to verify use and type of dry material desiccant added. Measurements supported findings that compost latrines do not reach temperatures sufficient to destroy all pathogens. pH measurements showed that many latrines were operating within the range for ideal aerobic decomposition, a pH of 7.5–8.5, but only 17% of latrines measured pH 9 or above. Almost 100% of composting latrine users added sawdust and wood ash, to lower moisture level and provide carbon for decomposition. However, the recommended amount of desiccant added was insufficient to reduce moisture to the suggested 25% for pathogen destruction and C/N ratios remained in the range of raw human faeces. Importantly, pathogens, mainly helminths, were still present in compost stored for the 6-month contact time. The latrines have conflicting goals of pathogen destruction and aerobic decomposition. Recommendations are made regarding operation of composting latrines and disposal of composted material.
Waterborne diseases in the state of Mexico, Mexico (2000–2005)
Authors: Jiménez-Moleón M. C. , Gómez-Albores M. A.
Published: February 2011

This paper reports a spatial-temporal examination of waterborne disease data from the State of Mexico, 2000 to 2005, by county as the spatial unit. It was found that the incidence of waterborne disease did not decrease during the period under study. Inequality between metropolitan areas and rural zones was observed. People living in population centres had lower incidence of water-related diseases, possibly due to better access to services. In all cases, children under five years old suffered a much higher relative morbidity than the population in general. Improvement of the water distribution network between 2000 and 2005 could explain the decrease in morbidity from 30% to 15%, for the total population, and from 34% to 18.5%, for children under five years old. Coverage of sewer services over the period was not substantially improved; as a result the coefficient of determination remained nearly constant: 16.5% for the total population and 25% for children under five. Maintenance and operation deficiencies in the water distribution and wastewater sanitation systems play an important role in the incidence of this type of disease. It was found that the institutional division of the territory does not correspond to the actual distribution of the risk areas.
Coping with poor water supplies: empirical evidence from Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Katuwal Hari , Bohara Alok K.
Published: February 2011

The authors examined the demand for clean drinking water using treatment behaviors in Kathmandu, Nepal. Water supply is inadequate, unreliable and low quality. Households engage in several strategies to cope with the unreliable and poor quality of water supplies. Some of the major coping strategies are hauling, storing, and point-of-use treatment. Boiling, filtering, and use of Uro-guard are some of the major treatment methods. Using Water Survey of Kathmandu, the authors estimated the effect of wealth, education, information, gender, caste/ethnicity and opinion about water quality on drinking water treatment behaviors. The results show that people tend to increase boiling and then filtering instead of only one method if they are wealthier. In addition, people boil and then filter instead of boiling only and filtering only if they think that water delivered to the tap is dirty. Exposure to information has the strongest effect in general for the selection of all available treatment modes.
Novel Bacteroides host strains for detection of human- and animal-specific bacteriophages in water
Authors: Wicki Melanie , Auckenthaler Adrian , Felleisen Richard , Tanner Marcel , Baumgartner Andreas
Published: February 2011

Bacteriophages active against specific Bacteroides host strains were shown to be suitable for detection of human faecal pollution. However, the practical application of this finding is limited because some specific host strains were restricted to certain geographic regions. In this study, novel Bacteroides host strains were isolated that discriminate human and animal faecal pollution in Switzerland. Two strains specific for bacteriophages present in human faecal contamination and three strains specific for bacteriophages indicating animal faecal contamination were evaluated. Bacteriophages infecting human strains were exclusively found in human wastewater, whereas animal strains detected bacteriophages only in animal waste. The newly isolated host strains could be used to determine the source of surface and spring water faecal contamination in field situations. Applying the newly isolated host Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron ARABA 84 for detection of bacteriophages allowed the detection of human faecal contamination in spring water.
Evaluation of electropositive filtration for recovering norovirus in water
Authors: Lee Heetae , Kim Misoon , Paik Soon-Young , Lee Chan Hee , Jheong Weon-Hwa , Kim Jongmin , Ko GwangPyo
Published: February 2011

The virus adsorption-elution (VIRADEL) technique has been widely used in the recovery of various enteric viruses in water, and an electropositive filter such as 1 MDS has been commonly applied. However, effective methods of monitoring waterborne norovirus (NoV) have not yet been well characterized and optimized. Hence, in this study, the VIRADEL technique was evaluated and optimized for effectively detecting NoV in water by two commonly used electropositive filters (1MDS and NanoCeram filter). Various elution and concentration methods were evaluated by using both murine norovirus (MNV) and human NoV. Among the tested elution buffers, the most effective was 1.5% beef extract plus 0.01% Tween 80 for both 1MDS (67.5%) and NanoCeram (85.7%) microfilters. The recovery rate of GII-4 human NoV was higher by organic flocculation (86.6%) than by polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitations (11.6~73.6%). When both 1MDS and NanoCeram filters were tested to detect NoV in surface and groundwater, the sensitivity of NoV recovered by these filters appeared to depend on the types and conditions of environmental water. The results of this study will help to set a standard of detection method for NoV in water.
Microbial risk classifications for recreational waters and applications to the Swan and Canning Rivers in Western Australia
Authors: Abbott B. , Lugg R. , Devine B. , Cook A. , Weinstein P.
Published: February 2011

Protecting recreational water quality where ‘whole-of-body contact’ activities occur is important from a public health and economic perspective. Numerous studies have demonstrated that infectious illnesses occur when swimming in faecally polluted waters. With the release of the 2008 Australian recreational water guidelines, the Western Australian (WA) Department of Health conducted a formal evaluation to highlight the advantages of applying the microbial risk management framework to 27 swimming beaches in the Swan and Canning Rivers in Perth, WA. This involved a two-phase approach: (i) calculation of 95th percentiles using historical enterococci data; and (ii) undertaking sanitary inspections. The outcomes were combined to assign provisional risk classifications for each site. The classifications are used to promote informed choices as a risk management strategy. The study indicates that the majority of swimming beaches in the Swan-Canning Rivers are classified as ‘very good’ to ‘good’ and are considered safe for swimming. The remaining sites were classified as ‘poor’, which is likely to be attributed to environmental influences. Information from the study was communicated to the public via a series of press releases and the Healthy Swimming website. The guidelines provide a sound approach to managing recreational water quality issues, but some limitations were identified.
Estimating changes in river faecal coliform loading using nonparametric multiplicative regression
Authors: Schulz Christopher J. , Childers Gary W.
Published: February 2011

Faecal coliform (FC) concentration was monitored weekly in the Tangipahoa River over an eight year period. Available USGS discharge and precipitation data were used to construct a nonparametric multiplicative regression (NPMR) model for both forecasting and backcasting of FC density. NPMR backcasting and forecasting of FC allowed for estimation of concentration for any flow regime. During this study a remediation effort was undertaken to improve disinfection systems of contributing municipal waste water treatment plants in the watershed. Time-series analysis of FC concentrations demonstrated a drop in FC levels coinciding with remediation efforts. The NPMR model suggested the reduction in FC levels was not due to climate variance (i.e. discharge and precipitation changes) alone. Use of the NPMR method circumvented the need for construction of a more complex physical watershed model to estimate FC loading in the river. This method can be used to detect and estimate new discharge impacts, or forecast daily FC estimates.
Evaluation of Conjugated Linoleic Acid Addition to a Chocolate Milk Drink
Authors: Lopes Daniella Cristine Fialho CF , Silvestre Marialice P C , Chiarini-Garcia Helio , Garcia Emerson S , Morais Harriman A , Silva Mauro Ramalho
Published: February 2011

Aiming the development of a chocolate milk drink added of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), some parameters, such as equipment type (blender and ultraturrax) and stirring time (1, 2 and 5 min) were tested. Chocolate milk drinks normally found in Brazilian market served as basis for obtaining the preparation in this study. The results showed that CLA incorporation to the dairy drink was more efficient using the blender (11,500 rpm, 3 min) than ultraturrax (11,000 rpm, 5 min), since it produced a higher emulsion stability, which was evaluated by visual inspection and optical microscopy (OM). The size of the oil droplets ranged from 2.28 mm to 11.80 mm and was evaluated only by MO due to the impossibility of using dynamic light scattering associated to the polydispersion of all samples which was higher than 1.0. After hand-shaking the samples, the oil phase was reincorporated to the dispersed phase, indicating that no complete destabilization of the emulsion occurred.
A new summation formula for WP-Bailey pairs
Authors: Mclaughlin James
Published: February 2011

Let (?n(a,k), ?n(a,k)) be a WP-Bailey pair. Assuming the limits exist, let
(?