bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STABILIZATION OF THE WEATHERED SOILS AND FORMATION OF PERMANENT GRASS GREEN COVER BY CRYOSTRUCTURING
Authors: K Altunina L , I Svarovskaya L , T Gan-Erdene , S Fufaeva M , A Filatov D , Ch Batjargal , M Bayarjargal
Published: August 2017

A new chemical-biological method of preventing soil erosion using cryogel in combination with perennial grasses is proposed. The cryogel is shown not to have negative impact on aboriginal soil microflora. On the one hand the cryogel polymer matrix in the soil is strong enough to withstand the effects of erosion but on the other hand it is quite elastic, so it will not hinder plant growth. The seeds germinated through the cryogel layer form a stable green cover. Cryogels are harmless to humans and environmentally friendly.
ИСЭГ ЦАГААН ИДЭЭНЭЭС ЯЛГАСАН СҮҮН ХҮЧЛИЙН БАКТЕРИЙН ШИНЖ ЧАНАРЫН СУДАЛГАА
Authors: Б Хандсүрэн , Ш Дэмбэрэл , Ж Дүгэрсүрэн
Published: August 2017

We isolated lactic acid bacteria from fermented dairy products, fermented mare’s milk and cow yogurt, which are traditionally produced by Mongolian herders, and carried out in vitro study of their probiotic properties. Culture 44c is 100% identical to species Lactobacillus helveticus (Lhelveticus) or a strain KT368987, isolated from Mongolian airag, while culture 65b is 99% identical to Lactobacillus delbreuckii subsp. bulgaricus (L.bulgaricus) or strain CP016393 isolated from camel fermented milk in Gobi-Altai aimag and characteristics of both cultures were the best among all cultures obtained in the present study. Isolated lactic acid rods completely inhibited the growth of gastro-intestinal pathogens which spread among livestock (E.coli 09, E.coli 026, S.abortusovis 0068) and Mongolian population (S.aureus 5695, S.aureus 5068, S.aureus SA27, E.coli 10963, E.coli 10977). As well as, we determined the properties, including resistance to the acidic environment of digestive tract and activity when using with common antibiotics, which are the basic requirements for bacterial strains used in functional food production. According to the result, when pH of the environment reached 3.5 or 4.0, growth rate of the strains was over 80 percent and the lactic acid strains were variably resistant to 10 antibiotics of 5 classes (penicillin, aminoglycoside, cephalosporin and macrolide). For example; Formation of 8.9±0.87 mm zone around all antibiotic discs for culture 44c of L.helveticus demonstrates the culture can be used in combination with these antibiotics for therapeutic purposes. Besides of these characteristics, CFU per ml was determined by growing on MRS nutrient medium under anaerobic condition. Moreover, CFU/ml was determined because its spectrum of activity depends on the number of bacteria per 1ml. L.helveticus 44c reached its highest volume (2503х1010) at 48th hour of growth, while L.bulgaricus 65b reached its highest volume (2503х1010) at 72th hour of growth. After they reached their highest volume, both of them tended to decrease. For this reason, these strains, especially L.helveticus 44c and L.bulgaricus 65b strains, are possible to be used as a source material for probiotics or functional food products.
Simulation of square wave voltammetry of three electrode reactions coupled by two reversible chemical reactions
Authors: Lovrić Milivoj
Published: August 2017

Three fast and reversible electrode reactions that are connected by two reversible chemical reactions that are permanently in the equilibrium are analysed theoretically for square wave voltammetry. The dependence of peak potentials on the dimensionless equilibrium constants of chemical reactions is calculated. The influence of the basic thermodynamic parameters on the square wave voltammetric responses is analysed.
Mass Spectral Characterization and UPLC Quantitation of 3-Deoxyanthocyanidins in Sorghum bicolor Varietals
Authors: Stern Nathan P , Rana Jatinder , Chandra Amitabh , Balles John
Published: August 2017

A quantitative ultra-performance LC (UPLC) method was developed and validated to successfully separate, identify, and quantitate the major polyphenolic compounds present in different varieties of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) feedstock. The method was linear from 3.2 to 320 ppm, with an r2 of 0.99999 when using luteolinidin chloride as the external standard. Method accuracy was determined to be 99.5%, and precision of replicate preparations was less than 1% RSD. Characterization by UPLC-MS determined that the predominant polyphenolic components of the sorghum varietals were 3-deoxyanthocyanidins (3-DXAs). High-throughput screening for 3-DXA identified four unique classes within the sorghum varieties. Certain feedstock varieties have been found to have a high potential to not only be plant-based colorants, but also provide significant amounts of bioactive 3-DXAs, making them of unique interest to the dietary supplement industry.
Performance Prediction of Two-Stepped Planing Hulls Using Morphing Mesh Approach
Authors: Dashtimanesh Abbas , Esfandiari Arman , Mancini Simone
Published: August 2017

Change in body shape characteristics is one of the ways to reduce the resistance and thereby increasing the speed of planing hulls. Creating the transverse steps is one of these variations. The main reason to use the steps in high-speed planing craft is that the wetted surface of the vessel is divided into small parts with higher width-length ratio in high velocities and in this situation, the generated lift force is more efficient. In this article, by performing a three-dimensional numerical solution, motion characteristics of a two-stepped planing hull with transverse steps in calm water have been examined. For this purpose, the vessel is free to trim and sinkage, and by using the morphing mesh approach, the numerical simulation continued until the equilibrium condition of the two-stepped planing hull is satisfied. Resistance, lift, trim angle, and wetted surface in various velocities have been computed and compared against existing experimental data. Analysis of considered two-stepped hull in calm water shows that the numerical solution for resistance, trim, and lift are relatively precise in comparison to model test data. Furthermore, various hull characteristics such as wetted length of keel, chine wetted length, spray angle and, ventilation length have been investigated.

1. Introduction

In recent years, naval architectures have proposed significant modifications in planing hulls' design by creating steps, tunnel, and other geometric features. By considering these geometric variations, the hull wetted surface and, consequently, its resistance have been reduced and planing hulls velocity can be increased. In this regard, the step is one of the main hull's modifications which can lead to resistance reduction. Generally, lift of stepped planing hulls is distributed over the forward, middle, and stern plane of the hull (Fig. 1), and therefore, its ride quality will also be improved. Moreover, planing hulls with various step configurations have been used in high-speed craft since 1910, and various types of step with different shapes and arrangements have been used in planing hulls.
Challenges to cooperative societies: implementation of international standards of accounting CPC 01
Authors: Yoshitake Mariano , Santana Fraga Marinette , Tinoco João Eduardo Prudêncio
Published: August 2017

The objective of this study is to identify the main barriers in the International Standard Application of the "Impairment of Assets" (CPC 01) which from the 2010 financial year, will have on cooperative societies. We used exploratory and descriptive research with a qualitative approach, using literature and document analysis. The exploratory and descriptive research, according to Gil (2002), searches for the initial understanding of a given phenomenon, in this case, cooperatives in general. The results show that although the standard allows a number of different methods to be used in determining its various assumptions, little concrete guidance is passed to accountants in applying these methods. Coupled with the natural complexity of introducing a concept and accounting regulations, must consider the lack of skilled labor in Brazil to define and implement complex premises, sensitive and with a high degree of judgment involved. That said, it is expected that the definition and application of these assumptions should be supported by independent experts and widely discussed among managers of cooperatives. We conclude that the cooperative societies, in particular, with little experience in Accounting, will face difficulties and serious problems in the implementation of accounting pronouncement CPC 01.
Production of the organic cocoa in the amazon: a case study of the amazon organic products cooperative – COPOAM
Authors: Vronski Magda , Maia Olimpio Silvia
Published: August 2017

This article aims to show the results and discussions of the exploratory descriptive research carried out by the Cooperative of Organic Products of the Amazon (COPOAM), which is composed of cocoa producers part of agricultural families cooperative located in the Transamazon Highway region, state of Pará. The main purpose of this research is to illustrate the producer’s strategies towards production and marketing of organic products. This work also demonstrates the cooperative's market expansion based on its formalized contracts and sustainable development practices, which can stimulate initiatives that promote the good use of natural resources in the Amazon, as well as participatory management of the territory. Such actions contribute to local development in a needy and anthropized region.
I share, therefore i am? The (re) construction of consumer identity by collaborative con-sumption
Authors: Andrade Helena da Gama Cerqueira , Pinto Marcelo De Rezende , De Almeida Gustavo Tomaz , Mesquita Maytê Cabral
Published: August 2017

This article aims to investigate how the practice of collaborative consumption, which privileges the "use" in detriment of "possessions" of goods, influences the construction, reconstruction and deconstruction of consumer identity. The practice of coworking was chosen as a means to conduct the research. The study was theoretically based on the themes: culture and consumption, collaborative consumption, coworking and identity. Using a qualitative, ethnographic methodology, the study focused on people who use coworking to work, and sought to identify and analyze aspects related to their consumption habits and identity traits. The study collected the data through participant observations and in-depth interviews, producing results that enabled the articulation with the CCT - Consumer Culture Theory. It was found that the collaborative consumption is part of the social and cultural universe of this group of consumers to the extent that, in addition to coworking, this is an environment that presupposes collaboration. The fact that they are working in this environment and living with other people in the same situation, makes this climate of collaboration extrapolate the walls of coworking and influence them in order to adopt other attitudes and collaborative habits, which shows a relationship between consumption and identity.
Environmental strategies for the mining sector: evidences from a Brazilian company
Authors: Alves Wellington , Ferreira Paula , Colombo Ciliana Regina , Portela Claudio Ruy
Published: August 2017

The mining sector in Brazil has grown in the last decades contributing in an expressive form to the economic growth of the country. However, this progress has also contributed to the increase of environmental impacts brought by the mining industries include puts in evidence the need to define strategies well suited to deal with the particularities of each process or company. The main goal of this research was to develop a conceptual model matching environmental strategies with the sustainability dimensions focusing on the mining sector. The model was validated through two empirical approaches, including a Delphi study and a case study. From the Delphi study 28 environmental strategies were identified and classified in a work which is deemed to be relevant for companies targeting sustainability objectives and dealing with different environmental objectives. The case study addressed a large mining company located in the State of Paraiba in Brazil and showed both the relevance of the proposed model to justify the selection of the environmental strategies and the determinant factors for this selection. Endogenous factors are considered to be decisive for the organization to select and implement these strategies and with the exception of environmental legislation, exogenous factors have not exerted an overall important pressure on the organization.
Wage inequalities between men and women and a public policy analysis
Authors: Mattei Taise Fátima , Mendes Bezerra Fernanda
Published: August 2017

The labor market is marked by high social and economic inequalities, especially with regard to positions and salaries between men and women. Thus, this study will present the theories used to try to explain wage inequalities between men and women and will approach public policies and actions to minimize this problem, especially those of a discriminatory origin. The results point out the characteristics of the theories: the theory of compensatory differentials explains the extra gains for jobs that require greater risks; The human capital theory explains wage differentials through differences in schooling and experience; The theory of segmentation seeks in the segmentation of the market explanation for the wage differences; And the theory of discrimination seeks explanation in the personal characteristics of workers. With regard to the actions and public policies to minimize wage differences between genders, we can mention: anti-discrimination policies; Family policy; Reverse discrimination, among others.
The influence of sustainability beliefs in sustainable consumption behavior: a study with students from Brazil and Paraguay
Authors: Junior Jair Jeremias
Published: August 2017

One of the main challenges to achieving the much desired sustainable development is to identify the paths so as to realize the transition from speech to sustainable practice. One of the first aspects necessary for this transition is the change in the forms of production and consumption. This article aims to analyze the beliefs of individuals about the sustainability issue are related to the behavior of sustainable consumption. When investigating this relationship opens the opportunity to shed light on the factors that may influence consumption in order to make it sustainable. Therefore, validated instruments were used in the research from previous study of the constructs beliefs  in  sustainability  and  sustainable  consumption behavior in a sample of brazilian and paraguayan students. Data analysis occurred through structural equation modeling. The results showed that, for the brazilian sample, the beliefs of individuals concerning the sustainability influence their willingness to sustainable consumption, however, this relationship was not true for the sample of paraguayan students. And cultural factors related to the understanding of stage about the sustainability for both countries are possible explanations for the results.
Brain micro-inflammation at specific vessels dysregulates organ-homeostasis via the activation of a new neural circuit
Authors: Arima Yasunobu , Ohki Takuto , Nishikawa Naoki , Higuchi Kotaro , Ota Mitsutoshi , Tanaka Yuki , Nio-Kobayashi Junko , Elfeky Mohamed , Sakai Ryota , Mori Yuki , Kawamoto Tadafumi , Stofkova Andrea , Sakashita Yukihiro , Morimoto Yuji , Kuwatani Masaki , Iwanaga Toshihiko , Yoshioka Yoshichika , Sakamoto Naoya , Yoshimura Akihiko , Takiguchi Mitsuyoshi , Sakoda Saburo , Prinz Marco , Kamimura Daisuke , Murakami Masaaki
Published: August 2017

Impact of stress on diseases including gastrointestinal failure is well-known, but molecular mechanism is not understood. Here we show underlying molecular mechanism using EAE mice. Under stress conditions, EAE caused severe gastrointestinal failure with high-mortality. Mechanistically, autoreactive-pathogenic CD4+ T cells accumulated at specific vessels of boundary area of third-ventricle, thalamus, and dentate-gyrus to establish brain micro-inflammation via stress-gateway reflex. Importantly, induction of brain micro-inflammation at specific vessels by cytokine injection was sufficient to establish fatal gastrointestinal failure. Resulting micro-inflammation activated new neural pathway including neurons in paraventricular-nucleus, dorsomedial-nucleus-of-hypothalamus, and also vagal neurons to cause fatal gastrointestinal failure. Suppression of the brain micro-inflammation or blockage of these neural pathways inhibited the gastrointestinal failure. These results demonstrate direct link between brain micro-inflammation and fatal gastrointestinal disease via establishment of a new neural pathway under stress. They further suggest that brain micro-inflammation around specific vessels could be switch to activate new neural pathway(s) to regulate organ homeostasis.
Inhibition of Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 3 ion channels by G-protein βγ subunits
Authors: Badheka Doreen , Yudin Yevgen , Borbiro Istvan , Hartle Cassandra M , Yazici Aysenur , Mirshahi Tooraj , Rohacs Tibor
Published: August 2017

Transient receptor potential melastatin 3 (TRPM3) channels are activated by heat, and chemical ligands such as pregnenolone sulphate (PregS) and CIM0216. Here, we show that activation of receptors coupled to heterotrimeric Gi/o proteins inhibits TRPM3 channels. This inhibition was alleviated by co-expression of proteins that bind the βγ subunits of heterotrimeric G-proteins (Gβγ). Co-expression of Gβγ, but not constitutively active Gαi or Gαo, inhibited TRPM3 currents. TRPM3 co-immunoprecipitated with Gβ, and purified Gβγ proteins applied to excised inside-out patches inhibited TRPM3 currents, indicating a direct effect. Baclofen and somatostatin, agonists of Gi-coupled receptors, inhibited Ca2+ signals induced by PregS and CIM0216 in mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. The GABAB receptor agonist baclofen also inhibited inward currents induced by CIM0216 in DRG neurons, and nocifensive responses elicited by this TRPM3 agonist in mice. Our data uncover a novel signaling mechanism regulating TRPM3 channels.
Anti-nociceptive action of peripheral mu-opioid receptors by G-beta-gamma protein-mediated inhibition of TRPM3 channels
Authors: Dembla Sandeep , Behrendt Marc , Mohr Florian , Goecke Christian , Sondermann Julia , Schneider Franziska M , Schmidt Marlene , Stab Julia , Enzeroth Raissa , Leitner Michael G , Nuñez-Badinez Paulina , Schwenk Jochen , Nürnberg Bernd , Cohen Alejandro , Philipp Stephan E , Greffrath Wolfgang , Bünemann Moritz , Oliver Dominik , Zakharian Eleonora , Schmidt Manuela , Oberwinkler Johannes
Published: August 2017

Opioids, agonists of µ-opioid receptors (µORs), are the strongest pain killers clinically available. Their action includes a strong central component, which also causes important adverse effects. However, µORs are also found on the peripheral endings of nociceptors and their activation there produces meaningful analgesia. The cellular mechanisms downstream of peripheral µORs are not well understood. Here, we show in neurons of murine dorsal root ganglia that pro-nociceptive TRPM3 channels, present in the peripheral parts of nociceptors, are strongly inhibited by µOR activation, much more than other TRP channels in the same compartment, like TRPV1 and TRPA1. Inhibition of TRPM3 channels occurs via a short signaling cascade involving Gβγ proteins, which form a complex with TRPM3. Accordingly, activation of peripheral µORs in vivo strongly attenuates TRPM3-dependent pain. Our data establish TRPM3 inhibition as important consequence of peripheral µOR activation indicating that pharmacologically antagonizing TRPM3 may be a useful analgesic strategy.
Magnetothermal genetic deep brain stimulation of motor behaviors in awake, freely moving mice
Authors: Munshi Rahul , Qadri Shahnaz M , Zhang Qian , Castellanos Rubio Idoia , del Pino Pablo , Pralle Arnd
Published: August 2017

Establishing how neurocircuit activation causes particular behaviors requires modulating the activity of specific neurons. Here, we demonstrate that magnetothermal genetic stimulation provides tetherless deep brain activation sufficient to evoke motor behavior in awake mice. The approach uses alternating magnetic fields to heat superparamagnetic nanoparticles on the neuronal membrane. Neurons, heat-sensitized by expressing TRPV1 are activated with magnetic field application. Magnetothermal genetic stimulation in the motor cortex evoked ambulation, deep brain stimulation in the striatum caused rotation around the body-axis, and stimulation near the ridge between ventral and dorsal striatum caused freezing-of-gait. The duration of the behavior correlated tightly with field application. This approach provides genetically and spatially targetable, repeatable and temporarily precise activation of deep-brain circuits without the need for surgical implantation of any device.
Germ cell connectivity enhances cell death in response to DNA damage in the Drosophila testis
Authors: Lu Kevin L , Yamashita Yukiko M
Published: August 2017

Two broadly known characteristics of germ cells in many organisms are their development as a ‘cyst’ of interconnected cells and their high sensitivity to DNA damage. Here we provide evidence that in the Drosophila testis, connectivity serves as a mechanism that confers to spermatogonia a high sensitivity to DNA damage. We show that all spermatogonia within a cyst die synchronously even when only a subset of them exhibit detectable DNA damage. Mutants of the fusome, an organelle that is known to facilitate intracyst communication, compromise synchronous spermatogonial death and reduces overall germ cell death. Our data indicate that a death-promoting signal is shared within the cyst, leading to death of the entire cyst. Taken together, we propose that intercellular connectivity supported by the fusome uniquely increases the sensitivity of the germline to DNA damage, thereby protecting the integrity of gamete genomes that are passed on to the next generation.
A novel SH2 recognition mechanism recruits Spt6 to the doubly phosphorylated RNA polymerase II linker at sites of transcription
Authors: Sdano Matthew A , Fulcher James M , Palani Sowmiya , Chandrasekharan Mahesh B , Parnell Timothy J , Whitby Frank G , Formosa Tim , Hill Christopher P
Published: August 2017

We determined that the tandem SH2 domain of S. cerevisiae Spt6 binds the linker region of the RNA polymerase II subunit Rpb1 rather than the expected sites in its heptad repeat domain. The 4 nM binding affinity requires phosphorylation at Rpb1 S1493 and either T1471 or Y1473. Crystal structures showed that pT1471 binds the canonical SH2 pY site while pS1493 binds an unanticipated pocket 70 Å distant. Remarkably, the pT1471 phosphate occupies the phosphate-binding site of a canonical pY complex, while Y1473 occupies the position of a canonical pY side chain, with the combination of pT and Y mimicking a pY moiety. Biochemical data and modeling indicate that pY1473 can form an equivalent interaction, and we find that pT1471/pS1493 and pY1473/pS1493 combinations occur in vivo. ChIP-seq and genetic analyses demonstrate the importance of these interactions for recruitment of Spt6 to sites of transcription and for the maintenance of repressive chromatin.
Single phase computed tomography is equivalent to dual phase method for localizing hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism: a retrospective review
Authors: Morón Fanny , Delumpa Alfred , Chetta Justin , Guffey Danielle , Dunaway David
Published: August 2017

Objective

This study aims to compare the sensitivity of dual phase (non-contrast and arterial) versus single phase (arterial) CT for detection of hyper-functioning parathyroid glands in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism.

Methods

The CT scans of thirty-two patients who have biochemical evidence of primary hyperparathyroidism, pathologically proven parathyroid adenomas, and pre-operative multiphase parathyroid imaging were evaluated retrospectively in order to compare the adequacy of single phase vs. dual phase CT scans for the detection of parathyroid adenomas.

Results

The parathyroid adenomas were localized in 83% of cases on single arterial phase CT and 80% of cases on dual phase CT. The specificity for localization of parathyroid tumor was 96% for single phase CT and 97% for dual phase CT. The results were not significantly different (p = 0.695). These results are similar to those found in the literature for multiphase CT of 55–94%.

Conclusions

Our study supports the use of a single arterial phase CT for the detection of hyperfunctioning parathyroid adenomas. Advances in knowledge: a single arterial phase CT has similar sensitivity for localizing parathyroid adenomas as dual phase CT and significantly reduces radiation dose to the patient.
Taxonomic and chemical assessment of exceptionally abundant rock mine biofilm
Authors: Tomczyk-Żak Karolina , Szczesny Paweł , Gromadka Robert , Zielenkiewicz Urszula
Published: August 2017

Background

An exceptionally thick biofilm covers walls of ancient gold and arsenic Złoty Stok mine (Poland) in the apparent absence of organic sources of energy.

Methods and Results

We have characterized this microbial community using culture-dependent and independent methods. We sequenced amplicons of the 16S rRNA gene obtained using generic primers and additional primers targeted at Archaea and Actinobacteria separately. Also, we have cultured numerous isolates from the biofilm on different media under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. We discovered very high biodiversity, and no single taxonomic group was dominant. The majority of almost 4,000 OTUs were classified above genus level indicating presence of novel species. Elemental analysis, performed using SEM-EDS and X-ray, of biofilm samples showed that carbon, sulphur and oxygen were not evenly distributed in the biofilm and that their presence is highly correlated. However, the distribution of arsenic and iron was more flat, and numerous intrusions of elemental silver and platinum were noted, indicating that microorganisms play a key role in releasing these elements from the rock.

Conclusions

Altogether, the picture obtained throughout this study shows a very rich, complex and interdependent system of rock biofilm. The chemical heterogeneity of biofilm is a likely explanation as to why this oligotrophic environment is capable of supporting such high microbial diversity.
The age of onset of substance use is related to the coping strategies to deal with treatment in men with substance use disorder
Authors: Capella Maria del Mar , Adan Ana
Published: August 2017

Background

The age of onset of substance use (OSU) as well as the coping strategies (CS) influence both the development and the course of Substance Use Disorders (SUD). We aim to examine the differences in the CS applied to deal with treatment in men with SUD, considering whether the age of OSU had begun at age 16 or earlier (OSU ≤ 16) or at 17 years or later (OSU ≥ 17), as well as the associations of the CS with clinical variables were studied.

Methods

A total of 122 patients with at least three months of abstinence, 60 with OSU≤16 and 62 with OSU≥17, were evaluated through the Coping Strategies Inventory and clinical assessment tools.

Results

The OSU≤16 patients were younger and presented a worse clinical state. Compared to the norms, the SUD patients were less likely to use adaptive CS, although this was more remarkable for the OSU≤16 group. Furthermore, the OSU≤16 patients presented a CS pattern of higher Disengagement, with lesser use of Social Support and higher Problem Avoidance and Social Withdrawal. In the whole SUD sample, the severity of addiction, number of relapses and age of OSU (as a continuous variable) were related to maladaptive coping. Nevertheless, the cut-off age of OSU modulated these results.

Conclusions

The OSU≤16 was a risk factor for presenting greater clinical severity and a more dysfunctional CS profile to deal with treatment. Thus, the cut-off age considered has allowed us to differentiate SUD patients with more vulnerability to present worse clinical prognosis who may require specific prevention and rehabilitation strategies discussed throughout this work.
Aura-biomes are present in the water layer above coral reef benthic macro-organisms
Authors: Walsh Kevin , Haggerty J. Matthew , Doane Michael P. , Hansen John J. , Morris Megan M. , Moreira Ana Paula B. , de Oliveira Louisi , Leomil Luciana , Garcia Gizele D. , Thompson Fabiano , Dinsdale Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2017

As coral reef habitats decline worldwide, some reefs are transitioning from coral- to algal-dominated benthos with the exact cause for this shift remaining elusive. Increases in the abundance of microbes in the water column has been correlated with an increase in coral disease and reduction in coral cover. Here we investigated how multiple reef organisms influence microbial communities in the surrounding water column. Our study consisted of a field assessment of microbial communities above replicate patches dominated by a single macro-organism. Metagenomes were constructed from 20 L of water above distinct macro-organisms, including (1) the coral Mussismilia braziliensis, (2) fleshy macroalgae (Stypopodium, Dictota and Canistrocarpus), (3) turf algae, and (4) the zoanthid Palythoa caribaeorum and were compared to the water microbes collected 3 m above the reef. Microbial genera and functional potential were annotated using MG-RAST and showed that the dominant benthic macro-organisms influence the taxa and functions of microbes in the water column surrounding them, developing a specific “aura-biome”. The coral aura-biome reflected the open water column, and was associated with Synechococcus and functions suggesting oligotrophic growth, while the fleshy macroalgae aura-biome was associated with Ruegeria, Pseudomonas, and microbial functions suggesting low oxygen conditions. The turf algae aura-biome was associated with Vibrio, Flavobacterium, and functions suggesting pathogenic activity, while zoanthids were associated with Alteromonas and functions suggesting a stressful environment. Because each benthic organism has a distinct aura-biome, a change in benthic cover will change the microbial community of the water, which may lead to either the stimulation or suppression of the recruitment of benthic organisms.
Replacing kelp meal (Macrocystis pyrifera) with a winery by-product in a balanced diet for green abalone (Haliotis fulgens)
Authors: Nava-Guerrero R , Vásquez-Peláez C , Viana MT
Published: August 2017

Kelp meal made from Macrocystis pyrifera is a common ingredient in abalone diets (Haliotis fulgens); however, a greater demand for this ingredient as feed supplement for domestic animals has led to a considerable increase in price and it has become costly to use in balanced diets. Hence, the aim of the present work is to study the possibility of replacing kelp meal in the abalone diet with a regional winery by-product. Five diets were formulated in which kelp meal was substituted from 0% to 100%, at a maximum of 33% of the total of ingredients; 375 abalone (15.09 ± 0.38 mm and 0.434 ± 0.03 g) were used, randomly distributed in fifteen 8-L plastic buckets. After 60 days of experimentation, significant differences were detected in the slopes of the different treatments for both length and weight. Since the inclusion of the winery by-product resulted in a lower feed ingestion but the feed conversion efficiency remained constant, a factor of low palatability can be attributed to the winery by-product and not an antinutritional factor. It is concluded that the winery by-product can be substituted for kelp meal in 16% of the total diet without having a negative effect on the growth of the organisms.
Sodium and potassium alginates extracted from Macrocystis pyrifera algae for use in dental impression materials
Authors: Reyes-Tisnado R , Hernández-Carmona G , López-Gutiérrez F , Vernon-Carter EJ , Castro-Moroyoqui P
Published: August 2017

Sodium and potassium alginates were extracted at the pilot plant scale from the giant kelp, Macrocystis pyrifera, from Bahía Tortugas, Baja California Sur, Mexico. Alginates were coded as S1, S2 and S3 for sodium alginate, and as P1, P2 and P3 for potassium alginate. The average viscosities of the sodium and potassium alginates in aqueous 1% solution were 58, 145 and 506 mPa s, and 48, 155 and 200 mPa s, respectively. Results showed that dental impresion material prepared with sodium alginate with extra low viscosities (S1 = 58 mPa s) and low viscosities (S2 = 145 m Pa s) did not form gels, the material prepared with medium viscosity (S3 = 506 mPa s) produced a gel type II (regular set) in 70% of the 10 formulations experimented, and the material prepared with potassium alginate with extra low viscosity (P1 = 48 mPa s) produced a gel type II in 90% of the formulations. Using potassium alginate with low viscosity (P2 = 155 mPa s), 90% of the formulations were type I (fast set), and using potassium alginate with medium viscosity (P3 = 200 mPa s), 80% of the formulations were type I. The highest compressive strength was obtained using sodium alginate of 506 mPa s and the three potassium alginates experimented at 25% concentration, with values of 2474, 1209, 2101 and 2124 g cm–2 for S3, P1, P2 and P3 alginates, respectively. The elasticity order of formulation with 25% alginates compared with a commercial product (Jeltrate®) was as follows: Jeltrate® > P2 > S3 > P3 > P1. It was concluded that S3, P1, P2 and P3 alginates have good potential for use in the production of dental impression materials.
Temperature preference and circadian oxygen consumption of the red spiny lobster, Panulirus interruptus (Randall, 1842)
Authors: Díaz-Iglesias E , Díaz-Herrera F , Re-Araujo AD , Báez-Hidalgo M , López-Zenteno M , Valdés-Sánchez G , López-Murillo AK
Published: August 2017

The temperature preference of the red spiny lobster, Panulirus interruptus, measured during a 24-h cycle, was characterized by two selected temperatures, one during the light phase (median = 13.3 ± 0.33ºC) and another during the dark phase (median = 15.5 ± 0.54ºC). Both temperatures preferred by the lobsters were significantly different (P < 0.001). The oxygen consumption of the organisms had a bimodal expression, with a median rate of 22.5 mg O2 kg wb–1 h–1 during the day and of 29.4 mg O2 kg wb–1 h–1 during the night. The respiratory rate of the lobsters during the light and dark phases was significantly different (P < 0.0024). The respiratory metabolism was higher during the afternoon and night due to the nomadic movements and food searching activity that the lobsters carry out in their natural habitat.
Impact of the Prestige oil spill on marsh soils: Relationship between heavy metal, sulfide and total petroleum hydrocarbon contents at the Villarrube and Lires marshes (Galicia, Spain)
Authors: Andrade L , Marcet P , Fernández-Feal L , Fernández-Feal C , Covelo EF , Vega FA
Published: August 2017

The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of the Prestige oil spill on the total petroleum hydrocarbons and heavy metal contents of soils in two marshes (Lires and Villarrube, Galicia, Spain) and the relationship between their oxidationreduction potential and the solubility of heavy metals with sulfide and sulfate contents. Soil samples were taken from polluted and unpolluted areas and their petroleum hydrocarbon contents, heavy metal contents and other chemical characteristics were measured. The soils affected by the oil spill show remarkable contents of Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and V. The Lires marsh soils are more affected by fuel oil than Villarrube marsh. The effects of the contaminating agents on the soils reach distances of up to 500 m from the coastline. In the first 400 m, there are important spatial variations because the fuel oil penetrated into the soils through tidal action and not directly. The Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and V contents of polluted soils were between 50 and 200 times higher than those of their unpolluted counterparts and the background concentrations in Galician coastal sediments. In the case of Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and V, their originthrough the fuel oil was corroborated by the high correlation (r > 0.90) between the concentrations of these metals and the total petroleum hydrocarbon content of the polluted soils, which shows the combined addition of these metals through the fuel oil.
Reproductive period of the brown shrimp Farfantepenaeus californiensis (Holmes, 1900) in the Agiabampo coastal lagoon system, Sonora/Sinaloa, Mexico
Authors: Romero-Sedano JC , Aragón-Noriega EA , Manzano-Sarabia MM , Salinas-Zavala CA , García-Juárez AR
Published: August 2017

Knowledge of the biological role of the brown shrimp, Farfantepenaeus californiensis, in coastal lagoons is lacking. This species has been classified as oceanic that may or may not enter coastal lagoons in early stages and if it does, it migrates back to the ocean when it attains a size of 35 mm total length (TL). Recently, the brown shrimp has been caught in the Agiabampo coastal lagoon system, in Sonora/Sinaloa (Mexico), and the objective of this study is to describe the reproductive period of this species in that system. Monthly sampling campaigns were carried out from January to December 2002, during five consecutive days. Tows in 24 geopositioned stations were done during high and low tide using 15-m-wide trawl nets. A total of 27,694 organisms were analyzed, with a male:female ratio of 4:3. Based on the proportion of mature females, we determined two reproductive periods: one from June to July (summer) and another from October to November (autumn); however, the average abundance was 20 org ha–1 in summer and 2 org ha–1 in autumn. The average size of mature females was significantly smaller (P < 0.05) in summer (129.9 mm TL) than in autumn (134.5 mm TL). Size at first maturity was 145 mm TL in both periods. An important result that contributes to the biological knowledge of F. californiensis is evidence that part of the population matures inside this coastal lagoon and presents one important spawn deposition per year.
Distribution and abundance of fish larvae of the family Lutjanidae in the northeastern Colombian Caribbean during an annual cycle (2000–2001)
Authors: Arteaga E , Criales-Hernández MI , Altamar J , Manjarrés L
Published: August 2017

This study analyzes some basic aspects of the biological dynamics of lutjanid larvae in the northeastern part of the Colombian Caribbean. They had a wide distribution in the study area, and the highest abundances and indices of occurrence were found at the stations off Riohacha, between 6 and 18 nautical miles from the coast. July, October and May had the highest values, with an average of 12.90, 7.67 and 22.47 larvae/10 m2, respectively; the highest temperatures and lowest salinities were also recorded during these months.
Feeding habits of the flounder Paralichthys orbignyanus (Valenciennes, 1842) in a shallow coastal lagoon of the southern Atlantic Ocean: Rocha, Uruguay
Authors: Norbis W , Galli O
Published: August 2017

A total of 293 stomachs of adult flounders, Paralichthys orbignyanus, were analyzed from the catch of artisanal fisheries that operate in Rocha Lagoon, Uruguay. Flounders between 25 and 64 cm total length showed that 119 individuals (40.61%) had content in their stomachs, the silverside Odontesthes argentinensis being the main prey item. Significant variations were observed between size classes. Cannibalism was less than 3% of total prey items and occurred within the 46–56 cm size class. Significant and positive trends were observed between the length of the silverside and the total length of the flounder, but a low percentage of the variability in prey size (<47%) was explained by the predator size. The specialized and selective diet of P. orbignyanus adults is considered to be typical of active piscivore predators and visual fish feeders. The state of prey digestion (in relatively fresh condition or in the beginning of digestion), the moment of catch and the low feeding index could indicate that the species acts as an active predator during the night.
Geochemical phases of Fe and degree of pyritization in sediments from Ría de Pontevedra (NW Spain): Implications of mussel raft culture
Authors: León I , Méndez G , Rubio B
Published: August 2017

To assess the influence of mussel raft systems on several geochemical and sedimentological properties (carbonate and organic matter contents, fractions of Fe and degree of pyritization), six sediment cores were collected from the Ría de Pontevedra area. Four of those cores were collected in mussel raft areas (biodeposits) and the other two in adjacent areas where mussel rafts do not operate. The degree of pyritization (DOP) varied between 11.89% and 67.30%, with a mean value of 46.36 ± 13.15%. The maximum values of DOP were obtained in sediments from the mussel raft areas, which in turn showed higher values of pyrite Fe, organic matter and mud than the areas without mussel rafts. On the contrary, in the latter areas, coarser sediments with high carbonate content and Fe bound to silicates were the predominant phases. The results show a dominance of more reducing conditions in the biodeposit areas than in the adjacent areas. The DOP values indicate that reactive Fe was not totally converted to pyrite Fe. The significant correlation (r = 0.61) between DOP and organic matter confirmed that the latter is the limiting factor in pyrite genesis. These results allow us to conclude that mussel raft culture significantly changes the sediment texture and geochemical forms of Fe, with the consequent geochemical and environmental implications.
Transport of benthic diatoms across the continental shelf off southern Baja California Peninsula
Authors: Martínez-López A , Siqueiros-Beltrones DA , Silverberg N
Published: August 2017

Material collected with a time-series sediment trap moored in San Lázaro Basin, near the NE Pacific upwelling zone off Bahía Magdalena, Baja California Sur (Mexico), from August to November 1996 and December 1997 to June 1998, revealed temporal changes in the flux of benthic diatoms. Fluxes were highest during fall and spring. Lateral transport of benthic diatoms from the coastal zone seems to be an important phenomenon at this site. The species assemblage includes components found mainly in mangrove environments of Bahía Magdalena, as well as nearby rocky coastlines, indicating that locally the northward counter current or coastal gyres carry living cells, and possibly other particles of lagoon origin, across the continental shelf.
Recruitment of Porites (Scleractinia) on artificial substrate in reefs affected by the 1997–98 El Niño in Banderas Bay, Mexican Pacific
Authors: Medina-Rosas P , Carriquiry J , Cupul-Magaña AL
Published: August 2017

Mexican Pacific coral reefs were severely damaged by the sea surface warming observed during the 1997–98 El Niño. In Banderas Bay, massive coral mortality was as high as 97%, and the surviving colonies were exposed to sublethal temperatures and thermal stress. In this coral recruitment study we attempted to estimate the recovery and potential repopulation of corals in the Mexican Pacific. After the El Niño event, we used terracotta tiles to monitor the settlement of coral larval propagules at nine reefs in the region. The recruitment study took place from December 1998 to July 1999. Settlements of nine specimens of Porites were recorded at two localities. This is the first settlement record for this coral genus in the eastern tropical Pacific and the one with the largest number of specimens recruited during a study involving artificial substrate. The results indicate that these reefs do not totally depend on the arrival of allocthonous coral propagules from other regions of the tropical Pacific to maintain their development. This study also shows that corals maintain their reproductive activity despite the environmental disturbances. Therefore, sexual reproduction of reef corals of this region provides an effective alternative for the recovery of Mexican Pacific coral reefs.
Stomatopods of the genus Squilla (Hoplocarida: Stomatopoda: Squillidae) collected off the coast of Sinaloa, SE Gulf of California, Mexico, during the CEEMEX C1-C2-C3 cruises
Authors: Hendrickx ME , Sánchez-Vargas P
Published: August 2017

A series of stomatopod specimens belonging to the family Squillidae was obtained during sampling operations off the coast of Sinaloa (Mexico) in 1990, during three exploratory cruises. A total of 466 specimens were captured with commercial otter trawls used in the shrimp fishery, between 9 and 128 m depth. All specimens belonged to the genus Squilla and were collected in 34 of the 62 sampling stations. The same four species were collected during each cruise: Squilla hancocki (231 specimens), S. panamensis (114), S. mantoidea (97) and S. parva (24). All trawls considered, the sex ratio (M:F) was 1.34:1 for S. hancocki, 1.72:1 for S. mantoidea and 1.23:1 for S. panamensis. Adult and subadult sizes were well represented in the samples considering the known maximum size (total length) of each species. Of the 34 trawls with stomatopods, 15 (44%) contained only one species, 15 (44%) two species and 4 (12%) three species; no sample contained all four species. No geographic distribution pattern was detected in regard to the distribution of the sampling stations with the highest number of species.
Bioavailability of heavy metals in the Guadalete River Estuary (SW Iberian Peninsula)
Authors: Campana O , Rodríguez A , Blasco J
Published: August 2017

Sediments in the Guadalete River estuary were studied to determine the bioavailability of five common metals (Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb and Ni) in order to evaluate the toxicity of the sediment. Total sediment dry weight concentrations of heavy metals, simultaneously extracted metals (SEM) and acid volatile sulfides (AVS) were analyzed. Interstitial water criteria toxic units (IWCTU) were calculated and used as criteria to evaluate toxicity, making reference to the Sediment Quality Guidelines developed by the US Environmental Protection Agency. Diffusive fluxes through the sediment-water interface were also analyzed. The balance of deposition and return fluxes demonstrated the efficiency of estuarine sediment from Guadalete as sink for metal contaminants. The ratio between SEM and AVS was smaller than one, apparently indicating that the sediment was not toxic; however, the high concentrations of Cu and Pb in pore water make further investigations necessary to evaluate the real bioavailability and bioaccumulation of trace metals to show the obviousness of toxicity.
Quantification of laboratory-simulated water-atmosphere CO2 fluxes in estuaries
Authors: García-Luque E , Forja JM , Gómez-Parra A
Published: August 2017

Laboratory simulation of the processes that affect chemical species as they pass through estuaries is a useful tool for the study of these littoral systems. In this work, laboratory generation of the salinity gradients of several estuaries was performed using the steady state approach. We show how longitudinal salinity gradients can be generated in the laboratory, in order to characterize water-atmosphere CO2 flux variations along different salinity gradients. Many natural estuaries, exposed to anthropogenic influence, show oversaturation of CO2 relative to the atmosphere, with water pCO2 values between 500 and 9500 µatm. In all the experiments performed, pCO2 values higher than the mean atmospheric pCO2 were obtained. On the other hand, all the experimentally quantified water-atmosphere CO2 fluxes decrease exponentially with the increase in salinity. This same behaviour has been reported for several European estuaries by different authors.