bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomarkers associated with delirium in critically ill patients and their relation with long-term subjective cognitive dysfunction; indications for different pathways governing delirium in inflamed and noninflamed patients
Authors: van den Boogaard Mark , Kox Matthijs , Quinn Kieran L , van Achterberg Theo , van der Hoeven Johannes G , Schoonhoven Lisette , Pickkers Peter
Published: December 2011

Introduction

Delirium occurs frequently in critically ill patients and is associated with disease severity and infection. Although several pathways for delirium have been described, biomarkers associated with delirium in intensive care unit (ICU) patients is not well studied. We examined plasma biomarkers in delirious and nondelirious patients and the role of these biomarkers on long-term cognitive function.

Methods

In an exploratory observational study, we included 100 ICU patients with or without delirium and with ("inflamed") and without ("noninflamed") infection/systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Delirium was diagnosed by using the confusion-assessment method-ICU (CAM-ICU). Within 24 hours after the onset of delirium, blood was obtained for biomarker analysis. No differences in patient characteristics were found between delirious and nondelirious patients. To determine associations between biomarkers and delirium, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Eighteen months after ICU discharge, a cognitive-failure questionnaire was distributed to the ICU survivors.

Results

In total, 50 delirious and 50 nondelirious patients were included. We found that IL-8, MCP-1, procalcitonin (PCT), cortisol, and S100-β were significantly associated with delirium in inflamed patients (n = 46). In the noninflamed group of patients (n = 54), IL-8, IL-1ra, IL-10 ratio Aβ1-42/40, and ratio AβN-42/40 were significantly associated with delirium. In multivariate regression analysis, IL-8 was independently associated (odds ratio, 9.0; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.8 to 44.0) with delirium in inflamed patients and IL-10 (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.1 to 5.9), and Aβ1-42/40 (OR, 0.03; 95% CI, 0.002 to 0.50) with delirium in noninflamed patients. Furthermore, levels of several amyloid-β forms, but not human Tau or S100-β, were significantly correlated with self-reported cognitive impairment 18 months after ICU discharge, whereas inflammatory markers were not correlated to impaired long-term cognitive function.

Conclusions

In inflamed patients, the proinflammatory cytokine IL-8 was associated with delirium, whereas in noninflamed patients, antiinflammatory cytokine IL-10 and Aβ1-42/40 were associated with delirium. This suggests that the underlying mechanism governing the development of delirium in inflamed patients differs from that in noninflamed patients. Finally, elevated levels of amyloid-β correlated with long-term subjective cognitive-impairment delirium may represent the first sign of a (subclinical) dementia process. Future studies must confirm these results.

The study was registered in the Clinical Trial Register (NCT00604773).
Face-to-Face Dimeric Tetrathiafulvalenes and Their Cation Radical and Dication Species as Models of Mixed Valence and π-Dimer States
Authors: Hasegawa Masashi , Daigoku Kota , Hashimoto Kenro , Nishikawa Hiroyuki , Iyoda Masahiko
Published: December 2011

Intramolecular interactions of face-to-face tetrathiafulvalenes (TTFs) in 1,8-bis(tetrathiafulvalenyl)naphthalene frameworks were investigated in neutral and cationic states. From X-ray analysis and NMR spectroscopy on neutral 1,8-bis(tetrathiafulvalenyl)naphthalenes, which exist as a mixture of syn- and anti-isomers in solution, there is steric repulsion between TTF moieties. However, analysis of the cyclic voltammogram (CV) revealed that a strong attractive interaction was present in the cation radical state. Electronic spectra of the cation radical state showed the presence of a mixed-valence (MV) state with a strong charge resonance feature. ESR spectra of the 1,8-bis(tetrathiafulvalenyl)naphthalene cation radical showed a typical signal of an MV state. Furthermore, a π-dimer, which exhibits pronounced Davydov splitting in the electronic spectra, was formed in the dication state. The observed absorption bands in the electronic spectra were characterized by using quantum chemical calculations of the cation radical and dication species. NMR spectra of both the π-dimer and tetracation species show either a deshielding effect due to cationic charge or a shielding effect due to diamagnetic ring currents. To our knowledge, this is the first reported example of a 1H NMR spectrum of TTF π-dimer.
Comparison of diversity of torque teno virus 1 in different mucosal tissues and disorders
Authors: Fehér Enikő , Kardos Gábor , Gáll Tamás , Kis Andrea , Gergely Lajos , Szarka Krisztina
Published: December 2011

Diversity of TTV1 was assessed in the head and neck region in patients with potentially malignant (oral lichen planus, oral leukoplakia) and malignant lesions (oral and laryngeal squamous cell cancers) and was compared to that found in the uterine cervix (cervical atypia and cervical cancer) by directly sequencing the NG061-063 segment of ORF1. These sequences were classified by the formerly used genogroupgenotype system as well as by the newly accepted species classification by aligning with the corresponding region of the type sequences of the 29 TTV species. All sequences obtained during the study clustered together with the TTV1 type sequence; to express diversity within TTV1, genotypes and subtypes of the former classification were used.The commonest subtypes were 2c followed by 2b, 1a and 1b. Subtypes 2b and 2c were evenly distributed among cervical samples; subtype 1a was more frequent in patients with cervical atypia or cancer. Subtypes 2c was more frequent than 2b in head and neck lesions. In conclusion, genotype and even subtype distribution may be important in association with diseases, therefore using this classification for characterization of intraspecies diversity of TTV1 is proposed.
Towards Next-Generation Proteomic Assays: Functional Materials as Sieving Matrices and Binding Scaffolds
Authors: Tia Samuel Q. , Hughes Alex J. , Karns Kelly , Araz M. Kursad , He Mei , Kim Dohyun , Herr Amy E.
Published: December 2011

Next-generation bioanalytical approaches for protein-level measurements are advanced by the integration capacity of microfluidic design strategies, as well as the fine fluid and material control possible. Photopatterning of polymers within fluidic volumes is a key tool in the suite of technologies available for seamless integration of assay measurement modalities, as well as rapid target detection. Here, we overview recent advances in heterogeneous and homogeneous immunoassays using functional polymers, electrophoretic transport, and microdevices.
Implants With Internal Hexagon and Conical Implant-Abutment Connections: An In Vitro Study of the Bacterial Contamination
Authors: D'Ercole Simonetta , Scarano Antonio , Perrotti Vittoria , Mulatinho Jorge , Piattelli Adriano , Iezzi Giovanna , Tripodi Domenico
Published: December 2011

Prevention of microbial leakage at the implant-abutment junction is a major challenge for the construction of 2-stage implants in order to minimize inflammatory reactions and to maximize bone stability at the implant neck. The aim of the present in vitro study was an evaluation of the leakage observed over a period of 28 days in Cone Morse taper internal connections and in screwed-abutments connections. In the present study 10 specimens of Cone Morse (Group 1) and 10 of internal hexagon (Group 2) implants were used. The inner parts of 5 implants per group were inoculated with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PS) suspension and 5 implants per group with Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (AA). The possible penetration of bacterial suspension into the surrounding solution was determined by the observation of turbidity of the broth. In Group 1, bacterial contamination was found in 3 out of 5 implant-abutment assemblies seeded with the PS and in 2 samples out of 5 in the assemblies seeded with AA, with a total of leaked assemblies in this group of 5 out of 10. In Group 2, bacterial contamination was found in 4 out of 5 implant-abutment assemblies seeded with the PS, and in 4 out of 5 samples seeded with AA, with a total of leaked assemblies of 8 out of 10. The present data confirm the reported high permeability to bacterial leakage of screw-retained abutment connections, and the lower infiltration rates—although not significantly—of Cone Morse taper internal connections.
A Comparison of Methods for Collecting Self-Report Data on Sensitive Topics
Authors: Rosenbaum Alan , Rabenhorst Mandy M. , Reddy Madhavi K. , Fleming Matthew T. , Howells Nicolette L.
Published: December 2011

Insufficient attention has been paid to whether disclosure rates of sensitive or stigmatizing information vary as a function of method of inquiry. Methods vary both in terms of the anonymity afforded the participant and the opportunity to make a connection with the researcher, both of which might affect participants’ willingness to disclose such information. In this investigation, 215 undergraduate students were randomly assigned to complete identical questionnaires using one of the three most common methods of data collection (in-person interview, telephone interview, and paper-and-pencil questionnaire) or an automated telephonic data collection (ATDC) system. Questions on six topic areas of increasing social sensitivity (study habits, substance use, physical and sexual aggression, victimization and perpetration) were included. The results indicated that there were no differences in disclosure rates due to methods and no method by topic interaction, but the two telephonic methods both produced significantly higher participation rates than the two other methods. The results suggest that, at least for a college student sample, an automated telephonic system produces data comparable to that of more traditional methods, while offering greater convenience, economy, and participation.
Abandonment of Offshore Exploration Wells using a Vessel Deployed System for Cutting and Retrieval of Wellheads
Authors: Sørheim Odd Inge , Ribesen Bjørn Thore , Sivertsen Trond Eggen , Saasen Arild , Kanestrøm Øystein
Published: December 2011

Plug and Abandonment (P&A) can contribute with 25% of the total drilling costs of exploration wells offshore Norway. Cost efficient P&A technology is therefore necessary. In this paper, qualified technology for cutting and retrieval of wellheads using a separate vessel is described in detail. It is shown how to use this technology to significantly reduce the costs of exploration drilling. The technology has now been used on several abandonment operations on the Norwegian continental shelf.

During the P&A phase of the North Sea offshore exploration well, Trolla, the rig was unable to pull the 9-5/8" production casing and was therefore unable to secure and abandon the well according to plan. This incident prevented the wellhead from being retrieved in accordance with Norwegian legislation. The required barriers were reestablished by squeezing cement through cuts in the production casing. Then the well was permanently plugged; leaving the wellhead temporarily abandoned by installing a trawl protection. This is used while waiting for a vessel to arrive for completing the operation. A high pressure abrasive water jet cutter was run from this vessel.

The abandonment operation with this vessel, the world's deepest multistring conductor cut using such a system, was successful. It is shown how the casing was cut, and how the complete wellhead including the guide base was retrieved with the vessel active heave compensated crane.

On a different Norwegian Sea well, a spud foundation "can" was used at a water depth of 274 m MSL to preinstall a wellhead foundation on the seabed. The paper show how the surface casing was cut approximately 12.5m below the top of the wellhead by using water jet cutting technology and how the wellhead together with the can was retrieved in the P&A operation.
Use of a Wireline Formation Tester to Optimize Sampling and Production Testing Operations in Environmentally Sensitive Drilling Environments
Authors: Weinheber Peter , Danilova Darya , Galkin Maxim , Ayan Cosan , Deliya S. V.
Published: December 2011

Production tests are usually taken to be the gold standard by which to appraise the reservoir. The ability to flow the zone after it has been cased and perforated provides the best approximation to what actual reservoir performance will be. The complete interval is perforated, usually with the same completion technique that the reservoir will be developed with. Large volumes of fluid can be flowed which ensures representative samples are acquired and also allows for deep depth of investigation during the pressure transient analysis of the build-up. However, such a wealth of information does not come easily. In certain environments a full production test can takes weeks and cost many millions of dollars. And in addition to the cost is the reduced drilling efficiency – in environments with limited drilling seasons the time taken to perform a production test will reduce the number of wells that can be drilled in a season.

An alternative to the above approach is the wireline formation tester (WFT). The pump-out WFT has been in use for over twenty years. Although these tools can never hope to fully replace the production test, a judicious combination of WFT and DST data can answer many of the pertinent issues for reservoir evaluation and in some cases address the requirements of state or financial regulatory bodies.

In this paper we present a reservoir analysis based on data acquired with a conventional DST and compare this to an analysis with data acquired using a wireline formation tester. The strengths, weaknesses and applications of each are discussed.
The Challenges of Russian Arctic Projects
Authors: Barnes Richard J.
Published: December 2011

Building an oil or gas project in the Russian Arctic is one of the most challenging projects to complete successfully. The project team must overcome extreme conditions in a region which is environmentally sensitive, ecologically fragile, extremely remote, and with little or no infrastructure. Frequently tasks must be scheduled to be completed in narrow weather windows. Even after the facility is built, the operational phase poses at least as many challenges in keeping the facility running safely and efficiently at design capacity in very cold temperatures and far away from technical support and spare parts.

Getting men and materials to site and exporting the crude oil or gas is a particular challenge due to the remote location and extreme distances. Road and rail transport is near non-existent. Ice roads can be used during the winter, but sea transport is frequently only possible during the summer months.

Special design and construction techniques must be used to ensure that the facility can operate at extremely low ambient temperatures.

This paper provides:

A brief discussion on different concepts for field development and highlights some of the advantages and disadvantages of the concepts. A review of some of the projects that have been executed in the Arctic and other extreme environments, both onshore and offshore, and describes some of the challenges they faced and how these were overcome.

The paper will be of interest to anyone new to or with limited experience of executing projects in the Russian Arctic region, either onshore or offshore.
Geomagnetic Referencing in the Arctic Environment
Authors: Poedjono Benny , Beck Nathan , Buchanan Andrew , Brink Jason , Longo Joseph , Finn Carol A. , Worthington E. William
Published: December 2011

Geomagnetic referencing is becoming an increasingly attractive alternative to north-seeking gyroscopic surveys to achieve the precise wellbore positioning essential for success in today's complex drilling programs. However, the greater magnitude of variations in the geomagnetic environment at higher latitudes makes the application of geomagnetic referencing in those areas more challenging.

Precise, real-time data on those variations from relatively nearby magnetic observatories can be crucial to achieving the required accuracy, but constructing and operating an observatory in these often harsh environments poses a number of significant challenges. Operational since March 2010, the Deadhorse Magnetic Observatory (DED), located in Deadhorse, Alaska, was created through collaboration between the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and a leading oilfield services supply company. DED was designed to produce real-time geomagnetic data at the required level of accuracy, and to do so reliably under the extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions often experienced in the area.

The observatory will serve a number of key scientific communities as well as the oilfield drilling industry, and has already played a vital role in the success of several commercial ventures in the area, providing essential, accurate data while offering significant cost and time savings, compared with traditional surveying techniques.
Multilateral Wells Reduce Capex and Opex of Gas Development in Russia’s Arctic in an Environmentally Responsible Way
Authors: Quereguan Rene , Grossmann Andreas
Published: December 2011

The use of multilateral technology (MLT) reduces the number of production wells required to effectively drain a reservoir; consequently, it saves time and reduces costs. Fewer discrete surface locations significantly reduces both investment capital and footprint. Although reducing the infrastructure cost is the primary benefit of multilateral well architecture, in remote arctic environments, additional benefits include reduced project execution time (in this case, approximately 50 less days), which reduces the costs associated with the heating of fluids and equipment and the costs for cuttings disposal.

To take full advantage of the benefits, the appropriate MLT must be selected to avoid introducing additional risk and nonproductive time (NPT) to the project. The requirements for the multilateral system in the Yamal-Nenets area included constructing a mechanically strong junction and preventing communication between the two reservoirs. The TAML Level 4 multilateral technology, which provides hydraulic and mechanical isolation of the connected wellbores, meets this requirement. Although this was the first time that this level of junction was used in the Yamal-Nenets area, it has been used extensively in various geographical areas during the last 10 years.
Capital Costs Estimation Method for Arctic Offshore Oil Projects
Authors: Kuznetsov Mikhail , Sevastyanova Kristina , Tarasov Petr , Zilber Vladimir , Nekhaev Sergey
Published: December 2011

This paper describes an approach to offshore oil field development capital costs estimation on the early stages of a project life. The proposed methodology is based on the use of parametric methods and correlations derived from the worldwide actual project data. The result of research is a group of models, which statistical error is acceptable for a conceptual design.
Approaches to Development of High-Viscosity Oil Fields in Arctic Conditions using the Example of the Russkoe Field
Authors: Edelman I , Ivantsov N.. , Shandrygin A.. , Makarov E.. , Zakirov I..
Published: December 2011

The article discusses approaches to developing the Russkoe gas and oil field and results of pilot operations. The field is unique in terms of both hydrocarbon reserves and problems associated with its development. It is located above the Polar Circle and is characterized with a complex geological structure of highly permeable poorly cemented reservoirs saturated with high- viscosity oil (250-300 mPa*s). Significant factors making field development difficult include presence of tectonic faults, extensive gas cap, and underlying water. Field development was started with pilot operations whose results lay the foundation for the full field development strategy. The article describes technological solutions used and development scenarios considered.
Mathematical Modeling of Floating Anchored Objects Behaviour Under the Level Ice of Ridges Influence
Authors: Bolshev Alexander , Shkhinek Karl , Frolov Sergey
Published: December 2011

The present paper covers the methodology of mathematical simulation of floating anchored structures behaviour under the external loads influence. The paper also describes the realization of the dynamic ice loads calculation method. The technique can be used in research or design works related to the development of the new floating objects for the Arctic conditions. The paper considers the mathematical models of the floating anchored structure behaviour under the influence of the level ice, the consolidated part and the keel of ridge. All listed models are combined into one algorithm for the description of floating structure behaviour under the influence of the ice formations. There are some results of comparative calculations which confirm the working capacity of the offered techniques presented in this paper. The paper also provides the results of some floating anchored structures modelling under the influence of the level ice and ridges. They confirm the importance of the dynamic effects in the task level in question as well as the necessity of using the offered mathematical modelling methods to adequately describe the anchored structures behaviour under the influence of ice.
Experience of Designing Offshore Pipelines during Development of of Arctic Offshore Fields
Authors: Mansurov M. N. , Lapteva T. I , Velikodnev V. Ya , Skrepnyuk A. B.
Published: December 2011

Development of offshore hydrocarbon (HC) fields is today’s oil and gas industry priority in the Russian Federation. Water areas of the Arctic shelf are considered to be potential offshore HC production regions. When designing pipelines for such fields it is necessary to take into account the impact of specific Arctic conditions including hazardous ice impact (ice gouging), possible presence of permafrost on the seabed, lithological and geomorphological distinctive features of bottom soils. All main parameters ensuring safety of offshore pipelines must be determined and validated at the early design stage.

The paper reviews one of the main conditions that influences reliable operation of underwater pipeline systems, namely, stable position of the underwater pipeline at design reference marks.

Calculations of offshore pipeline stability on the seabed use the following main conditions: –environmental conditions;–geotechnical conditions of the seabed;–bathymetrical conditions (water depth);–pipeline parameters (diameter, wall thickness).

Criteria of pipeline stability on the seabed include: floating up or submerging of pipeline;transversal stability;longitudinal stability.

Soils with weak strength properties, especially when they are used for backfilling, may be potentially dangerous due to liquefaction under hydrodynamic forces. It is especially dangerous in the first years of operation when the soil is not consolidated enough. Relief in a local zone of diluted soil causes longitudinal stresses in pipeline, which may result in offshore pipeline stability loss. Liquefied soil potential depends also on backfilling process technology. This operation is performed by special ships – dredgers. Such ship has two pipes, one for soil suction, and the other equipped with water injection nozzles - for washing out and backfilling. When a trench is backfilled with controlled soil flow, "front" of backfill material is formed under pipe working head and a layer of fluidized material appears in the upper part of this "front". Therefore, if weak soil is used as backfill material, a size of liquefied soil layer will be considerable, as well as its impact on the pipeline. This process may lead either to floating up or submerging of pipeline into the soil. To stabilize offshore pipelines position the following measures can be taken: backfilling with soil not subject to liquefaction; pipeline laying below the layer of liquefied soil to eliminate risks related to soil liquefaction; using different methods of ballasting.
Trenching of Pipelines for Protection in Ice Environments
Authors: Paulin Mike , Humby Damien , Cocker Joseph , Lanan Glenn
Published: December 2011

Subsea pipelines located in ice environments need to be protected from potential ice gouging (also known as ice scouring) created when a moving ice keel interacts with the seabed. The integrity and operability of the pipeline can be affected by direct contact between the ice keel and the pipeline, or from loading imposed on the pipeline through soil deformation caused by ice gouging. The typical method considered for protecting against the risk of damage caused by ice gouging is through pipeline burial.

Conventional methods of pipeline burial use equipment such as ploughs, mechanical trenchers, and jetters, the majority of which have been designed to accomplish a maximum of 2 to 3m of pipeline burial. Dredges can be used but they have water depth limitations and limited productivity. Land based equipment has been used for shore crossings, but is limited to shallow water depths where temporary construction berms can be used as a working platform.

The capabilities of existing technologies are based on current industry practice developed for pipeline burial in ice free environments. Pipeline burial requirements have generally been for improved hydrodynamic stability, mechanical protection (e.g. from anchors), controlling pipeline movements (e.g. expansion and buckling) and/or for flow assurance purposes (reducing heat loss). A 2 to 3m burial depth has been generally adequate to satisfy these conventional requirements. As developments are proposed for areas that experience relatively deep ice gouging (up to 5m), burial depth requirements will exceed the capabilities of current pipeline burial technologies. New technologies capable of working in deeper water, achieving greater burial depths, achieving reasonable trenching advance rates, operating in harsh environments, and trenching through variable and difficult seabed soils will be required.

This paper highlights the issues and challenges surrounding pipeline trenching and burial in ice gouge environments. Current state-of-practice is discussed along with the technology gaps that need to be addressed to prepare for future offshore developments in ice covered waters where there is the potential for seabed ice gouging.
Relating Clay Structural Factors to Dioxin Adsorption by Smectites: Molecular Dynamics Simulations
Authors: Liu Cun , Li Hui , Johnston Cliff T. , Boyd Stephen A. , Teppen Brian J.
Published: December 2011

Dioxin adsorption by smectite clays can greatly exceed that by soil organic matter when compared on an equal mass basis. Bulk‐phase adsorption experiments demonstrated that sorption of dioxin by smectites depended strongly on (i) the hydration properties of the exchangeable cations, (ii) the surface charge density of the smectite clay, and (iii) the location (tetrahedral vs. octahedral) of isomorphous substitution in the clay mineral structure. Molecular dynamics simulations of saponites saturated with different exchangeable cations (Na+, K+, Cs+, and Ca2+) and one, two, or three layers of water in the interlayer regions were conducted to study the molecular environment of adsorbed dioxin in each system. The simulated radial distribution functions were computed to quantify the spatial correlations between O on dioxin (Odd) and interlayer cations as well as water molecules. The magnitudes of the Odd–cation coordination numbers followed the order Cs+ > K+ > Na+ > Ca2+, which agrees with the observed trend of dioxin adsorption to the smectites from water. The estimated adsorption enthalpies follow the trend Cs+ < K+ < Na+ ∼ Ca2+, further supporting the hypothesis that Odd–cation complexation plays an important role in adsorption of dioxin in clay interlayers.
Runoff Through and Upslope of Contour Switchgrass Hedges
Authors: Dabney Seth M. , Wilson Glenn V. , McGregor Keith C. , Vieira Dalmo A. N.
Published: December 2011

Grass hedges are specialized vegetative buffers effective in trapping sediment, but less is known about their ability to reduce or redirect runoff. Runoff and sediment yield from natural rainfall were measured during 8 yr from 0.1‐ha contour‐planted plots with and without 1‐m‐wide switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) hedges at their lower ends. Plots had slope lengths of 22 m with a steepness of 5%, were located on silt loam soils near Holly Springs, MS, and were cropped to conventional‐tillage corn (Zea mays L.). During the first 4 yr of the study, care was taken to conduct tillage is such a way that no soil was thrown into the grass hedge, while during the last 4 yr of the study, primary disk tillage immediately adjacent to the grass hedges created soil berms that acted as low terraces. Hedges reduced the fraction of rainfall that ran off the plots, and hedges with soil berms reduced runoff even more. The runoff curve number (CN) for a 2‐yr return period rainfall event was about 78 for plots with no hedges, 70 for plots with hedges, and 61 for plots with hedges with berms. Without berms, 95% of runoff passed through the hedges. In contrast, with berms most runoff (>85% from runoff events <3 mm d−1; >55% for events <80 mm d−1) flowed upslope of and parallel to the hedges. With or without berms, grass hedges decrease sediment yield by a factor of 0.25 to 0.28.
Residual Effects of Compost on Soil Quality and Dryland Wheat Yield Sixteen Years after Compost Application
Authors: Reeve J. R. , Endelman J. B. , Miller B. E. , Hole D. J.
Published: December 2011

Significant hectarage of certified organic dryland wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is planted in the western United States. Yields are severely constrained by lack of precipitation, so many dryland organic wheat farmers do not grow cover crops or apply fertilizer due to the inability to recoup application costs in the short term. Composts have a strong carryover effect, however, and the long‐term benefits of infrequent applications to soil quality, yield, and economics on dryland wheat–fallow systems have not been evaluated. Soils were sampled in 2008 and 2010 from the site of a previous compost response trial located on a commercial dryland wheat farm in Snowville, UT. Dairy manure compost was applied in 1994 at the rate of 50 Mg dry matter ha−1 in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Sixteen years later, soils from compost‐amended plots contained 1.6‐fold higher total organic C (1.43% vs. 0.89%, p < 0.002), higher microbial biomass, dehydrogenase, acid and alkaline phosphatase activity and higher plant available P, K, and Zn relative to amended controls in the top 5 cm. The 5‐ to 10‐cm layer contained 1.6‐fold higher total organic C, higher plant available P and K and higher dehydrogenase, acid and alkaline phosphatase activity in 2010. The 2‐yr average yield increased from 0.5 Mg ha−1 in the control plots to 1.0 Mg ha−1 in the amended plots (p = 0.004). When compared with the yield gain of 2.3 Mg ha−1 measured in 1995 to 1997, the estimated half‐life of the compost effect was 6 yr. Despite the long‐term benefits measured in this study, the viability of using compost in dryland wheat production will depend on the availability and proximity of growers to sources of compost.
A Simplified Close‐Range Photogrammetric Technique for Soil Erosion Assessment
Authors: Nouwakpo Sayjro K. , Huang Chi-hua
Published: December 2011

Surface reconstruction using digital photogrammetry offers a great advantage for soil erosion research. The technology can be cumbersome for field application because it relies on the accurate measurement of control points, often using a survey‐grade instrument. Also, even though digital photogrammetry has been used in much soil erosion research, its sensitivity in detecting soil elevation changes has rarely been assessed. This study aimed at simplifying the digital photogrammetric procedure for soil erosion research and assessing the sensitivity of this technology to detect soil erosion. To simplify the technology, we propose to combine a photogrammetric procedure for control point generation in a first step, followed by a conventional photogrammetric digital elevation model (DEM) extraction procedure. The performance of the method was assessed in the laboratory and tested in the field to digitize ephemeral gullies. In the accuracy test of photogrammetric survey step, we found that the maximum length measurement error was 3.4 mm, while the maximum angular deviation from the vertical or horizontal axes was 0.93°. The maximum error between control point coordinates generated by photogrammetry and those generated by a survey‐grade total station was 26 mm on the horizontal axes and 10 mm on the vertical axis. We also found that the sensitivity of digital photogrammetry in detecting soil surface elevation changes was similar to that of a laser scanner when the detection was performed on smooth soil surfaces and when the standard deviation of the elevation changes was approximately three times the precision of the photogrammetric DEM.
Response of Nitrous Oxide and Corresponding Bacteria to Managements in an Agricultural Soil
Authors: Bao Qiongli , Ju Xiaotang , Gao Bing , Qu Zhi , Christie Peter , Lu Yahai
Published: December 2011

We investigated the linkages between composition and abundance of ammonia –oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and denitrifiers and emissions of N2O in a summer maize (Zea mays L.) field in a calcareous, intensively managed, agricultural soil. The treatments were zero‐N (control), NH4+–based fertilizer N (favoring nitrification), NO3−–based fertilizer N + glucose + soil compaction (NO3−+Glu+Com, favoring denitrification), and urea + straw (U+S, representing conventional farming practices). We observed a substantial period (approximately 1 wk) of high N2O emissions that commenced after N fertilization and irrigation. The highest emissions occurred in the NO3−+Glu+Com treatment. A significant positive relationship was observed between soil NH4+–N concentrations and N2O emissions in the NH4+ and U+S treatments. In general, a positive relationship between N2O emissions and soil water‐filled pore space (WFPS) existed when WFPS reached >55%. Community structure of AOB in the NH4+ treatment during the high N2O emission stage, based on terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism, was similar to that in the control treatment. There were no changes in the denitrifier community structure under NO3−+Glu+Com when 53 times higher N2O emissions occurred than in the control. High abundance of amoA gene copies for AOB and nir gene copies for denitrifiers were detected, however, during the high N2O emission period in the NH4+ and NO3−+Glu+Com treatments, respectively. The results indicate that N2O emissions were related to the abundance of AOB or denitrifiers. It remains unclear, however, whether their community composition can also have an effect on N2O emissions.
Water Retention Curves of Biofilm‐Affected Soils using Xanthan as an Analogue
Authors: Rosenzweig Ravid , Shavit Uri , Furman Alex
Published: December 2011

This study investigated the effect of biofilms and, in particular, that of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) on the hydraulic properties of porous media under unsaturated conditions. The quantitative understanding of the way biological activity alters hydraulic properties is a major key in understanding and engineering relevant systems such as soil aquifer treatment, bioremediation, and wastewater irrigation. Using an EPS analog (xanthan) we explored the effect of EPS on the water retention function of two sandy soils. The result was a significant increase in the water content at any given matric head that could reach 270% of its value within pure soil. For most of the water content range, we successfully modeled the effect of the EPS as a linear superposition of the original pure soil and the xanthan retention curves. Finally, we examined two mechanisms that can attribute to modification of the water retention curve: the EPS holding capacity and alteration of the soils' pore‐size distribution; in our case, it appears that the first mechanism was dominant.
Soil Tests as Risk Indicators for Leaching of Dissolved Phosphorus from Agricultural Soils in Ontario
Authors: Wang Y. T. , Zhang T. Q. , O'Halloran I. P. , Tan C. S. , Hu Q. C. , Reid D. K.
Published: December 2011

Phosphorus movement in subsurface flow from agricultural soils can be a significant pathway contributing to eutrophication of surface waters. Our study aimed to evaluate several environmental and agronomic soil P tests as indicators of dissolved reactive P (DRP) concentrations in soil‐column leachate from Ontario soils. Undisturbed soil columns were collected from six major soil series, with 10 sites of each to quantitatively cover a wide range of soil test P (STP) or degree of P saturation (DPS). Split‐line models described the relationships (P < 0.001) between leachate DRP concentrations and the values of ln(STP) and ln(DPS), with a greater slope observed above the change points than below them. Among the tested soil P measures, water‐extractable P (WEP), Mehlich‐3 P/(Mehlich‐3 Al + Fe) (DPSM3‐1), and Mehlich‐3 P/Mehlich‐3 Al (DPSM3‐2) had the strongest overall relationships with leachate DRP concentration. Ontario soils were grouped into no‐risk, low‐risk, medium‐risk, and high‐risk categories based on the conditional probability of yielding leachate DRP > 0.1 mg P L−1 at a given STP as measured by WEP and Olsen P or a given DPS as measured by DPSM3‐1 and DPSM3‐2. While the Olsen P test is most commonly used for agronomic calibration in Ontario, DPSM3‐2 provided the best indicator of leachate DRP concentration from Ontario soils. Regardless of the test method used, these numeric criteria could be combined with site hydrology and P management practices for a more comprehensive soil P loss assessment.
Identification of Formate‐Metabolizing Bacteria in Paddy Soil by DNA‐Based Stable Isotope Probing
Authors: Feng Youzhi , Lin Xiangui , Jia Zhongjun , Zhu Jianguo
Published: December 2011

As one of the fermentation products of plant biomass, formate is an important organic acid in flooded rice (Oryza sativa L.) fields. Little is known, however, about the identity of formate‐metabolizing bacteria in paddy soil. In this study, a paddy soil microcosm was incubated with 13C‐labeled formate; bacterial and eukaryotic communities incorporating formate C were analyzed by DNA‐stable isotope probing. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that 13C‐formate‐derived C was actively assimilated by a subset of bacteria. Molecular fingerprinting and sequencing analysis of 16S rRNA genes revealed that the active formate‐metabolizing bacteria in the paddy soil were mainly the bacteria in the Clostridia class and purple nonsulfur bacteria (PNSB). The former might facilitate SO42− and Fe reduction using formate. Observed for the first time, PNSB are able to assimilate organic matter for growth under in situ conditions without light. These results extend our knowledge of not only the formate‐assimilating bacteria but also the ecological significance of formate in paddy soil.
Determining Water Retention in Seasonally Frozen Soils Using Hydra Impedance Sensors
Authors: Kelleners T. J. , Norton J. B.
Published: December 2011

The soil freezing characteristic, defined as the relationship between freezing soil temperature and unfrozen water content, can be used to determine the soil water retention curve in situ. The objective of this study was to investigate whether freezing characteristics measured with Hydra impedance sensors (Stevens Water Monitoring Systems, Portland, OR) result in accurate depthwise soil water retention curves. Hydra sensors measuring the complex permittivity and soil temperature were installed at five depths at five sites in southeastern Wyoming and monitored for approximately 2 yr. A dielectric mixing model was calibrated using unfrozen soil data to predict the liquid water content and ice content in frozen soils. The total water potential in the frozen soils was calculated from the Hydra sensor soil temperature measurements using the Clapeyron equation. Soil water pressure heads were calculated from the total soil water head by subtracting the osmotic head. Comparison of the resulting Hydra sensor water retention data with depthwise laboratory retention data using a dew point potentiometer and a pressure plate extractor showed mixed results (coefficient of determination 0 ≤ R2 ≤ 0.94). The best results were obtained for the shallowest sensors at the five sites (0.74 ≤ R2 ≤ 0.93) because of the more significant and more prolonged soil freezing at these depths, resulting in relatively wide ranges for the calculated soil water pressure heads. Fitted curves for the Hydra sensor water retention data yielded unreliable parameters because of insufficient information on the wet end of the water retention curves.
Study on Electro-Magneto-Elastic Fiber Composites with Periodically Distributed Reinforced Phases Under Antiplane Deformation Mode and its
Applications
Authors: Ren Xingli , Hou Hongli , Xu Yaoling
Published: December 2011

The response of electro-magneto-elastic long fiber composites containing periodically distributed reinforced phases under antiplane shear load coupled with inplane electromagnetic load, which lead to the antiplane deformation mode, is dealt with. There are three different electro-magneto-elastic materials in the unit cell (3-phase model), a rigorous analytical method is developed by using the generalized eigenstrains concept integrated with the doubly quasiperiodic Riemann boundary value problem theory. The expressions of electro-magneto-elastic fields in each phase of composites are obtained. As an important application of the presented solution, the effective electro-magneto-elastic moduli are predicted by using the average field theorem and compared with the results derived from the generalized self-consistent method.
Study on Performance of Anisotropic Materials of Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Su Shunyu , Chen Jian , Zhang Chunzhi
Published: December 2011

The advantage and shortcoming of anisotropic material of thermal conductivity using as building envelope
were analyzed in this paper. The thermal performance of anisotropic material of thermal conductivity was presented by rotating
the original rectangular axes so as to determine the principal axes and make the cross-derivative terms disappear.
The results indicated that the heat flux vector is commonly not perpendicular to the isothermal surface in anisotropic material.
Double skin facade has been successfully applied in many building designs. The application of laminated composite
with anisotropic thermal conductivity in double skin envelope was proposed to avoid its disadvantage. The interior envelope
in double skin system may be made of laminated glaze or other laminated materials. Basing on the combination of
anisotropic material and double skin envelope, the indoor cooling and heating load decrease in summer and winter respectively
while the anisotropic material was used as interior building envelope. Especially in summer, the effect of energy
saving is obvious since the partial magnitude of conductive heat in the interior envelope could be brought out from the
cavity by natural ventilation through it.
Improving Almond Productivity under Deficit Irrigation in Semiarid Zones
Authors: García-Tejero I.F. , Durán-Zuazo V.H. , Vélez L.M. , Hernández A. , Salguero A. , Muriel-Fernández J.L.
Published: December 2011

Sustainable water use is one of the greatest challenges of irrigated agricultural systems. This study presents the results related to the agronomic and physiological response to the deficit irrigation of almond trees (Prunus dulcis DA Webb Mill cv. Guara) under semiarid Mediterranean conditions in the Guadalquivir river basin (SW Spain). Two deficitirrigation strategies were tested: i) regulated deficit irrigation (RDI), which was irrigated at 100% of crop evapotranspiration (ETC) throughout the irrigation period, except during the kernel-filling stage, when these trees where irrigated at 30% ETC, and ii) low-frequency deficit irrigation (LFDI), in which trees were subjected to different irrigationrestriction periods, defined in terms of stem water potential at midday (ΨStem). As control, a fully irrigated treatment (C-100) was used, which received irrigation covering the 100% of ETC. The stem water potential (ΨStem), the stomatal conductance (gS), the photosynthesis rate (Pn) and canopy temperature (TC) were monitored, revealing significant differences mainly in LFDI in comparison with C-100. Also, highly significant relationships were found among plant physiological parameters, showing that the water status is strongly related to the crop water availability. On other hand, in terms of nut yield, there was a notable improvement under LFDI compared with RDI, with increases of 16% in relation to C-100, and with water savings of close to 170 mm. Thus, these findings demonstrate that the LFDI is a sustainable strategy to improve almond productivity as well as water-use efficiency under limited water resources.
Correlations of Hormone Receptors (ER and PR), Her2/neu and p53 Expression in Breast Ductal Carcinoma Among Yemeni Women
Authors: Ahmed Hussain Gadelkarim , Al-Adhraei Mohammed Ali , Al-Thobhani Abdullah Kasim
Published: December 2011

Aims: The purpose of this study was to determine if any relationship exists between Estrogen Receptor (ER),Progesterone Receptor (PR), Her2/neu, P53, and clinicopathological factors in female breast ductal carcinoma. Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty seven (IDC=124, NIDC=13) ductal carcinomas were clinicopathologically and immunohistochemically analyzed and compared with 20 control cases of benign breast lesions in which assessment of Her-2/neu, ER, PR, and P53 has been performed, prospectively. Chi-square analysis was then used to correlate the above observations. Results: The overall immunoexpression of ER, PR, Her2/neu and P53 were 43.8%, 27%, 30.6% and 48.9%, respectively, of the 137 ductal carcinomas. A significant Positive association between ER or PR expression with lymph node involvement was found ( p= 0.004, p= 0.022 respectively), while p53 was found to be negatively associated with lymph nodes involvement (p= 0.03, 0.02, respectively). P53 also associated negatively to lymph node status (P=0.03) and
positively with borderline tumor grade (p= 0.03). Conclusion: There are high rates of positive expression of ER, PR, Her2/neu and P53 among Yamani women with breast ductal carcinoma.