bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood pressure levels and adherence to treatment of hypertensive patients, users of a school pharmacy
Authors: Santos Brigitte Rieckmann Martins dos , Teixeira Juliana , Gonçalves Débora , Gatti Reynaldo Mascagni , Yavo Boni , Aragão Cicera Cristina Vidal
Published: April 2011

Adherence to pharmacological treatment for hypertension is considered a key factor in guaranteeing successful therapy outcomes. Knowledge of the disease, its complications, as well as the need for changes in lifestyle, call for patient motivation and continuous interactive education. The evidence regarding the beneficial effects of changes in life style by hypertensive individuals in reducing the complications of the disease, as well as in its prevention are indisputable. However, the challenges posed by patient adherence to treatment prescribed by doctors remain. The aim of this study was to assess blood pressure levels together with degree of adherence to pharmacological treatment with Enalapril Maleate by means of the Morisky-Green Test, in hypertensive patients who were users of a School Pharmacy. Of the 102 patients interviewed, 65.7% had controlled blood pressure, but only 36.3% indicated total compliance with the pharmacological treatment. The Morisky-Green test proved ineffective in associating controlled blood pressure levels and positive attitudes toward taking antihypertensive medicines.
Animal experimentation and scientific knowledge: a thought style?
Authors: Tréz Thales de Astrogildo e
Published: April 2011

Animal experimentation, besides a research method extensively applied in the production of scientific knowledge, is also considered essential to science and with undeniable historical relevance in advances in human health. In this survey, a questionnaire was applied to a group of researchers involved with research based on non-animal models (n =18), and to another group involved with research based on animal models (n =18). The data analysis was grounded in Ludwik Fleck (1896 -1961) epistemological assumptions. The results suggested that there are at least two thought styles operating in consonance on the same research problem (advances in human health conditions) with significantly different conceptions not only concerning the research practices involved, but also the historical conceptions related to the role of animal experimentation.
Total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity of commercial Noni (Morinda citrifolia L.) juice and its components
Authors: Bramorski Adriana , Cherem Adriana da Rosa , Marmentini Chaiana Paula , Torresani Joseane , Mezadri Tatiana , Costa Andréa de Almeida Silva
Published: April 2011

The plant Morinda citrifolia L. (noni) has been the focus of many recent studies due to its potential effects on treatment and prevention of several diseases. However, there are few in vivo and in vitro studies concerning its composition and antioxidant capacity. The aim of the present study was to determine the total polyphenol content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity of a juice commercialized as noni juice, but containing grape, blueberry and noni fruits. Commercial noni juice was compared against its separate constituents of blueberry and grape juice. Folin-Ciocalteu and DPPH• methods were used to determine the concentration of total polyphenol content and antioxidant activity, respectively. Commercial noni juice presented higher values of TPC (91.90 mg of gallic acid/100 mL juice) and antioxidant activity (5.85 mmol/L) compared to its 5% diluted constituents. Concentrated blueberry juice presented higher TPC and antioxidant activity than the other juices analyzed. Considering that the blueberry and grape juices account for only 10% in the composition of commercial noni juice, it can be inferred that these two components contribute significantly to the antioxidant activity. Therefore, additional studies are necessary in order to elucidate the contribution of the noni juice as an antioxidant.
Development of methodologies for dimethylaminoethanol glycolate assay in association with sunscreens in dermocosmetic formulation
Authors: Deccache Daniela Soares , Santos Elisabete Pereira dos , Cabral Lúcio Mendes , Rodrigues Carlos Rangel , Sousa Valéria Pereira de
Published: April 2011

DMAE glycolate (DG) and sunscreens have been used associated in anti-aging dermocosmetic formulations. Despite extensive use of these substances, methods for quantification of DG as raw material and in cosmetic formulations, especially when associated, are not described in the literature. RP-HPLC and non-aqueous titration methods, with determination potentiometric end-point (PT), were developed and validated for rapid assay of DG as raw material and in a topic emulsion in association with sunscreens. Both methods are simple, selective, linear, accurate and precise. The PT method was chosen for stability study of DG in the formulation developed. The proposed formulation presented good stability performance as regards aspect, pH, apparent viscosity, and SPF, with less than 5% of DG degradation compared to initial conditions.
A new methodology for polyvalent intravenous immunoglobulin solution production with a two-stage process of viral inactivation
Authors: Lucena Antônio Edson de Souza , Sampaio Divaldo de Almeida , Silva Ednaldo Rosas da , Paiva Virgínia Florêncio de , Santiago Ana Cláudia , Leite Ana Cristina Lima
Published: April 2011

Highly purified intravenous immunoglobulin G concentrate (IV IgG) was produced with the use of polyethylene glycol associated to a single-stage precipitation by ethanol, instead of the classic Cohn-Oncley process, which employs cold alcohol as the precipitating agent, in a three-stage process. Precipitation of crude fraction containing more than 95% of immunoglobulin G was performed by liquid chromatography with a cation exchanger, CM-Sepharose, as a stationary phase. During the process, the product was subjected to two-stage viral inactivation. The first stage was performed by the action of sodium caprylate, 30 mM at pH 5.1+/- 0.1, and the second stage was performed by the action of a solvent-detergent mixture. The finished product was formulated at 5% with 10% sucralose as the stabilizing agent. The process yields 3.3g of IgG/liter of plasma. The finished product analysis showed an anti-complementary activity lower than 1CH50. Polymer and aggregate percent levels were lower than 3% in the five batches studied. The analysis of neutralizing capacity showed the presence of antibacterial and antiviral antibodies in at least three times higher concentrations than the levels found in source plasma. The finished product fulfilled all purity requirements stated in the 4th edition of the European pharmacopeia.
Development and evaluation of calcium alginate beads prepared by sequential and simultaneous methods
Authors: Mandal Sanchita , Kumar S. Senthil , Krishnamoorthy Balakrishnam , Basu Sanat Kumar
Published: April 2011

The objective of this study was to develop a sustained release dosage form of Trimetazidine dihydrochloride (TMZ) using a natural polymeric carrier prepared in a completely aqueous environment. TMZ was entrapped in calcium alginate beads prepared with sodium alginate by the ionotropic gelation method using calcium chloride as a crosslinking agent. The drug was incorporated either into preformed calcium alginate gel beads (sequential method) or incorporated simultaneously during the gelation stage (simultaneous method). The beads were evaluated for particle size and surface morphology using optical microscopy and SEM, respectively. Beads produced by the sequential method had higher drug entrapment. Drug entrapment in the sequential method was higher with increased CaCl2 and polymer concentration but lower with increased drug concentration. In the simultaneous method, drug entrapment was higher when polymer and drug concentration were increased and also rose to a certain extent with increase in CaCl2 concentration, where further increase resulted in lower drug loading. FTIR studies revealed that there is no interaction between drug and CaCl2. XRD studies showed that the crystalline drug changed to an amorphous state after formulation. Release characteristics of the TMZ loaded calcium alginate beads were studied in enzyme-free simulated gastric and intestinal fluid.
Possible pharmacological interactions in hypertensive and/or diabetic elderly in family health units at Blumenau (SC)
Authors: Codagnone Neto Vicente , Garcia Victor Pundek , Santa Helena Ernani Tiaraju de
Published: April 2011

The aim of this study was to examine the possible adverse drug-drug interactions in the elderly population (>60 years) diagnosed either with diabetes, arterial hypertension or both, at a Family Health Unit (FHU) clinic in Blumenau, state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. For this purpose 318 subjects were interviewed using a pretested form with social and demographic aspects regarding their disease and its complications. All drugs used by this population were grouped, and the drug-drug interactions were detected by using the "Drug Interaction Checker" software, and classified for frequency and severity. The average age of patients was 70.6 years, with a higher number of female patients (216; 67.9%). Most subjects were being treated for both diseases (149; 46.86%). Out of a total of 1,541 medications prescribed, the most prevalent were: hydrochlorothiazide (131; 8.4%) and enalapril maleate (130; 8.4%). A total of 295 possible drug-drug interactions were detected in 152 patients (1.9 interactions per subject), 275 (93.2%) moderate and 20 (6.8%) severe or highly severe. The possible interaction prevalence was 0.93 (0.55 to 1.40 depending on health unit). The most frequent possible interaction was that between acetylsalicylic acid and enalapril maleate (37; 12.5%). Patients had an average consumption of 6.6 drugs and 9.8% of subjects reported physical discomfort when using medicines. Elderly patients use many medications that could cause adverse reactions and possible drug-drug interactions, where this issue warrants closer attention of prescribers and health providers.
Educational level, socio-economic status and relationship with quality of life in elderly residents of the city of Porto Alegre/RS, Brazil
Authors: Colet Christiane de Fátima , Mayorga Paulo , Amador Tânia Alves
Published: April 2011

The objective of this study was to verify the index of quality of life of elderly individuals belonging to groups, from different socioeconomic strata in the city of Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul State. The research adopted a transversal model, used to collect data from the SF-36 questionnaire. The sampling is the intentional type and comprised: 61 elderly people in Class A, 80 in Class C, and 84 in Class E. The research was approved by the Committee of Ethics in Research/UFRGS. In relation to the quality of life, Class A presented higher scores than did Classes C and E on the pain, vitality, social aspect and mental health areas. The results also showed a significant difference in quality of life among university educated individuals versus the other schooling groups, on the pain, vitality, mental health and social aspect fields. Quality of life is a complex concept to study, but essential to improve the perception of health and welfare by the elderly.
Adherence to drug treatment in hypertensive patients on the Family Health Program
Authors: Ungari Andrea Queiróz , Fabbro Amaury Lelis Dal
Published: April 2011

The aim of the present study was to analyze adherence to drug treatment in hypertensive patients enrolled on the Family Health Program in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo State. This transversal study was conducted between August and December 2006, in which 109 patients were interviewed using the Morisky and Green Test to measure adherence level to pharmacotherapy. Variables that may be related to adherence level were also investigated, such as demographic characteristics, health care team and health service related factors, and pharmacotherapy related factors. The test scores were analyzed by two criteria: patients were categorized as "more adherent" if they had a score from 3 to 4 (criterion 1) or a score of 4 (criterion 2); patients with other scores were categorized as less adherent. Of all patients, 79.8% and 43.1% were classified as "more adherent" according to criterion 1 and criterion 2, respectively. With regard to the possible causes of non-adherence to treatment, statistically significant (p<0.05) associations were identified between "trust in the doctor" or "number of antihypertensive drugs used" and the level of adherence, according to criterion 2. These results indicated adequate adherence levels to drug treatment by the patients, and highlighted the importance of professional/patient interaction, trust in the doctor and the attitude by health professionals toward users.
Perceptions of Disease State, Treatment Outcomes, and Prognosis Among Patients with Myelodysplastic Syndromes: Results from an Internet-Based Survey
Authors: Sekeres Mikkael A. , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , List Alan F. , Steensma David P. , Artz Andrew , Swern Arlene S. , Scribner Paul , Huber John , Stone Richard
Published: April 2011

Purpose.

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDSs) are a heterogenous group of clonal hematopoietic disorders affecting approximately 60,000 people in the U.S. Little information is available regarding how aware MDS patients are of their disease severity, prognosis, and treatment outcomes.

Methods.

This Internet-based survey assessed patient perceptions regarding these factors, determined differences between patients with higher- and lower-risk disease and between those receiving active treatment and supportive care, and assessed patient-reported outcomes.

Results.

Among 358 patients (median age, 65 years), the median time since MDS diagnosis was 3 years and time from initial hematologic abnormality detection was 6 years. Many patients (55%) did not know their International Prognostic Scoring System score, 42% were unaware of their blast percentage, and 28% were unaware of their cytogenetics. Patients were unlikely to recall having their MDS described as cancer (7%), 37% felt their treatment would improve survival, and 16% felt treatment would be curative. Patients receiving active treatment were more likely to believe their therapy would prolong survival than those receiving supportive care (52% versus 31%; p < .001) or be curative (23% versus 14%; p = .03). Patients with higher-risk disease were more likely to think their therapy would be curative than those with lower-risk disease (26% versus 11%; p = .01). Patients with MDS reported poor physical or mental health on two to three times more days per month than population norms.

Conclusion.

Patients with MDS have a limited understanding of their disease characteristics, prognosis, and treatment goals. These results may help improve physician–patient communication and identify factors to consider when making treatment decisions.
Long-Term Neuropathy After Oxaliplatin Treatment: Challenging the Dictum of Reversibility
Authors: Park Susanna B. , Lin Cindy S.Y. , Krishnan Arun V. , Goldstein David , Friedlander Michael L. , Kiernan Matthew C.
Published: April 2011

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Define the symptoms of sensory neurotoxicity in oxaliplatin-treated patients and identify the long-term natural history of nerve dysfunction as a long-lasting complication of treatment that does not necessarily resolve within 6 months.Use sensory excitability techniques to predict long-standing changes in sensory nerve function produced by oxaliplatin.

CME This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com

Objectives.

Oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy is a significant and dose-limiting toxicity that adversely affects quality of life. However, the long-term neurological sequelae have not been adequately described. The present study aimed to describe the natural history of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy, using subjective and objective assessments.

Methods.

From a population of 108 oxaliplatin-treated patients referred for neurological assessment in 2002–2008, 52.2% of the surviving patient cohort (n = 24) was available for follow-up at a median of 25 months post-oxaliplatin. Patients underwent a protocol that incorporated clinical assessment scales, patient questionnaires, standard electrodiagnostic assessments, and novel nerve excitability studies to precisely assess nerve function.

Results.

At follow-up, 79.2% of patients reported residual neuropathic symptoms, with distal loss of pin-prick sensibility in 58.3% of patients and loss of vibration sensibility in 83.3% of patients. Symptom severity scores were significantly correlated with cumulative dose. There was no recovery of sensory action potential amplitudes in upper and lower limbs, consistent with persistent axonal sensory neuropathy. Sensory excitability parameters had not returned to baseline levels, suggesting persisting abnormalities in nerve function. The extent of excitability abnormalities during treatment was significantly correlated with clinical outcomes at follow-up.

Conclusions.

These findings establish the persistence of subjective and objective deficits in oxaliplatin-treated patients post-oxaliplatin, suggesting that sensory neuropathy is a long-term outcome, thereby challenging the literature on the reversibility of oxaliplatin-induced neuropathy.
Rehabilitation of Sines west breakwater: wave overtopping study
Authors: Reis Maria Teresa , Neves Maria Graça , Lopes Miguel Robert , Hu Keming , Silva Luís Gabriel
Published: April 2011

The paper presents an historical perspective on the design, construction, failure and rehabilitation of the west breakwater of the Portuguese harbour of Sines, as well as on the overtopping physical model studies performed to check the effectiveness of the different proposed solutions for its rehabilitation. Studies are now being conducted for Sines Port Authority for the final rehabilitation of the breakwater, with the primary objective of reactivating berth 1 but also to generally improve the shelter and operating conditions within the port. The paper presents the three proposed solutions for the west breakwater and their two-dimensional physical model tests of stability and overtopping carried out in 2008 at Laboratório Nacional de Engenharia Civil (LNEC), Portugal. The paper also illustrates the application of a new version of the non-linear shallow water numerical model, Amazon, and of the methodologies recommended in the EurOtop overtopping manual to study the mean overtopping discharge over the breakwater. The Clash neural network was the only tool applicable to the three proposed solutions, although it tended to underpredict the physical model discharges, mainly for the selected solution 3. There was good agreement between the physical model data and the Amazon results for solutions 1 and 2, although Amazon tended to slightly overpredict the discharges, especially for solution 2. The empirical methods overpredicted these discharges to a great extent, warning of the fact that direct application of these methods is limited to particular structural configurations and wave conditions.
Low‐frequency sounds induce acoustic trauma in cephalopods
Authors: André Michel , Solé Marta , Lenoir Marc , Durfort Mercè , Quero Carme , Mas Alex , Lombarte Antoni , van der Schaar Mike , López-Bejar Manel , Morell Maria , Zaugg Serge , Houégnigan Ludwig
Published: April 2011

There is currently relatively little information on how marine organisms process and analyze sound, making assessments about the impacts of artificial sound sources in the marine environment difficult. However, such assessments have become a priority because noise is now considered as a source of pollution that increasingly affects the natural balance of marine ecosystems. We present the first morphological and ultrastructural evidence of massive acoustic trauma, not compatible with life, in four cephalopod species subjected to low‐frequency controlled‐exposure experiments. Exposure to low‐frequency sounds resulted in permanent and substantial alterations of the sensory hair cells of the statocysts, the structures responsible for the animals' sense of balance and position. These results indicate a need for further environmental regulation of human activities that introduce high‐intensity, low‐frequency sounds in the world's oceans.
The Paradox of Meritocracy in Organizations
Authors: Castilla Emilio J. , Benard Stephen
Published: April 2011

In this article, we develop and empirically test the theoretical argument that when an organizational culture promotes meritocracy (compared with when it does not), managers in that organization may ironically show greater bias in favor of men over equally performing women in translating employee performance evaluations into rewards and other key career outcomes; we call this the “paradox of meritocracy.” To assess this effect, we conducted three experiments with a total of 445 participants with managerial experience who were asked to make bonus, promotion, and termination recommendations for several employee profiles. We manipulated both the gender of the employees being evaluated and whether the company's core values emphasized meritocracy in evaluations and compensation. The main finding is consistent across the three studies: when an organization is explicitly presented as meritocratic, individuals in managerial positions favor a male employee over an equally qualified female employee by awarding him a larger monetary reward. This finding demonstrates that the pursuit of meritocracy at the workplace may be more difficult than it first appears and that there may be unrecognized risks behind certain organizational efforts used to reward merit. We discuss possible underlying mechanisms leading to the paradox of meritocracy effect as well as the scope conditions under which we expect the effect to occur.
Markets, Morals, and Practices of Trade: Jurisdictional Disputes in the U.S. Commerce in Cadavers
Authors: Anteby Michel
Published: April 2011

This study examines the U.S. commerce in human cadavers for medical education and research to explore variation in legitimacy in trades involving similar goods. It draws on archival, interview, and observational data mainly from NewYork State to analyze market participants' efforts to legitimize commerce and resolve a jurisdictional dispute. Building on literature on professions, the study shows that how goods are traded, not only what is traded, proves integral to constructing legitimacy, thus suggesting a practice-based view of moral markets. The professionals, including a group of “gatekeepers,” construct a narrative distinction between their own commerce and an implicitly less moral alternative and geographically insulate their trades from the broader commerce, creating in effect two circuits. Yet the professionals also promote specific practices of trade within their circuit to help them distinguish their own pursuit from an alternative course of action. The study's findings shed light on the micro-foundations of market legitimization and on the role of morals in sustaining professional jurisdictions.
Are the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans Associated With Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors?
Authors: Zamora Daisy , Gordon-Larsen Penny , He Ka , Jacobs David R. , Shikany James M. , Popkin Barry M.
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE

To examine the prospective association between accordance with the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) and subsequent diabetes incidence and changes in cardiometabolic risk factors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The sample consisted of 4,381 black and white young adults examined repeatedly from 1985 to 2005. We used the 2005 Diet Quality Index (DQI) to rate participants’ diets based on meeting key dietary recommendations conveyed by the 2005 DGA.

RESULTS

Overall, we found no association between DQI score and diabetes risk using Cox models adjusted for potential confounders. Higher DQI scores were associated with favorable changes in HDL cholesterol and blood pressure overall (P for trend <0.05), but with increased insulin resistance among blacks (P for trend <0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the need for evaluation of the DGA’s effectiveness, particularly among ethnic minority populations. Clinicians should be aware that following the DGA might not lower diabetes risk.
Effect of Gastric Bypass Surgery on the Absorption and Bioavailability of Metformin
Authors: Padwal Raj S. , Gabr Raniah Q. , Sharma Arya M. , Langkaas Lee-Ann , Birch Dan W. , Karmali Shahzeer , Brocks Dion R.
Published: April 2011

OBJECTIVE

Use of gastric bypass surgery is common and increasing. Over 40% of patients in diabetes remission after gastric bypass surgery may redevelop diabetes within 5 years. Metformin, the first-line drug for diabetes, has low bioavailability and slow, incomplete gastrointestinal absorption. We hypothesized that gastric bypass would further reduce the absorption and bioavailability of metformin.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In a nonblinded, single-dose pharmacokinetic study, 16 nondiabetic post–gastric bypass patients and 16 sex- and BMI-matched control subjects (mean age 40 years and BMI 39.2 kg/m2) were administered two 500-mg metformin tablets. Plasma metformin levels were sampled at 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, and 24 h. Metformin absorption, estimated by the area under the curve (AUC) of the plasma drug concentrations from time 0 to infinity (AUC0-∞), was the primary outcome, and metformin bioavailability, assessed by measuring 24-h urine metformin levels, was a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

Compared with control subjects, metformin AUC0–∞ was increased in gastric bypass subjects by 21% (13.7 vs. 11.4 μg/mL/h; mean difference 2.3 [95% CI −1.3 to 5.9]) and bioavailability was increased by 50% (41.8 vs. 27.8%; 14.0 [4.1–23.9]). Gastric bypass patients had significantly lower AUC glucose levels over 8 h compared with control subjects (35.8 vs. 41.7 μg/mL/h; 5.9 [3.1–8.8]), but this was likely a result of differences in baseline fasting glucose and not metformin absorption.

CONCLUSIONS

Metformin absorption and bioavailability seem to be higher after gastric bypass, and this may have implications on dosing and toxicity risk. Studies are needed to confirm these findings and delineate potential mechanisms.
Molecular Basis of Blackgrass (Alopecurus Myosuroides HUDS.) Resistance to Sulfonylurea Herbicides
Authors: Krysiak Michał , Gawroński Stanisław , Kierzek Roman , Adamczewski Kazimierz
Published: April 2011

Molecular Basis of Blackgrass (Alopecurus MyosuroidesHUDS.) Resistance to Sulfonylurea Herbicides

Blackgrass biotype resistant to the mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron mixture has been found in Poland and was investigated in this study. Seedlings that survived double-dosed herbicide treatment were submitted to molecular analysis in order to explain the mechanism of resistance. Domains A and B of the acetolactate synthase gene were amplified by PCR and then sequenced. Biotypes which were both resistant and susceptible to mesosulfuron+iodosulfuron were analyzed. The comparison of the obtained sequences was made on a nucleotide and aminoacid level. The comparison revealed a substitution of proline codon to histidine codon in position 197 in each resistant plant. Mutation Pro197His is the basis of the target site resistance ofA. myosuroidesto sulfonylureas. There were no other mutations inalsgene of the biotype that might modify the level of resistance to these herbicides.
Impact of Trichoderma Isolates on the Mycelium Development of Wild Strains of Coprinus Comatus (Müll.) S.F. Gray
Authors: Frużyńska-Jóźwiak Dorota , Siwulski Marek , Sobieralski Krzysztof , Sas-Golak Iwona , Błaszczyk Lidia
Published: April 2011

Impact ofTrichodermaIsolates on the Mycelium Development of Wild Strains ofCoprinus Comatus(Müll.) S.F. Gray

The impact of different isolates of three species of theTrichodermagenus on the development of wild strains ofCoprinus comatusmycelium was investigated. Nine strains ofC. comatusobtained from natural sites and one cultivated strain were used in the trail. The followingTrichodermaisolates were used:T. aggressivumf.europaeum,T. longibrachiatumandT. atroviride. It was found that isolates ofT. aggressivumf.europaeumreduced the development of theC. comatusmycelium to a much greater degree than isolates ofT. longibrachiatumandT. atroviride.
Development of Mutants of Coniothyrium Minitans with Improved Efficiency for Control of Sclerotinia Sclerotiorum
Authors: Melo Itamar , Moretini Alex , Cassiolato Ana , Faull Jane
Published: April 2011

Development of Mutants ofConiothyrium Minitanswith Improved Efficiency for Control ofSclerotinia Sclerotiorum

Coniothyrium minitans(CM) is hyperparasitic toSclerotinia sclerotiorum(SS), a pathogen of many economically important crops. In this paper, we describe the isolation of improved mutants of CM, using a UV - irradiation regime, with altered chitinase production and tolerance to high concentration of iprodione, which are effective against SS. Three out of the 59 mutants obtained inhibited the mycelial growth of CM. Infectivity of sclerotia by the new mutants was assayed by the plant-tissue-based system using carrot segments. More than 80% of sclerotia were colonized by the mutants and the wild-type CM. The mutant strains retained ability to produce significant amounts of chitinase. The mutants differed from their wild-type strain in appearance, morphology and sporulation. In conclusion, the results presented here provide evidence that the new biotypes ofC. minitansare effective in controllingS. sclerotiorum.
The variability of phosphorus fractions in sediments of a shallow, restored Antoninek Reservoir (Poznań, Poland)
Authors: Dondajewska Renata
Published: April 2011

The variability of phosphorus fractions in sediments of a shallow, restored Antoninek Reservoir (Poznań, Poland)

Spatial and temporal variability of phosphorus (P) fractions content in bottom sediments of a shallow preliminary reservoir was studied in Antoninek, situated in Poznań. Fractions were analyzed at least once in a season (more often in spring and summer) between August 2004 and November 2005 according to the fractioning protocol proposed by Psenner et al. (1988). Circa 10 cm thick sediment layers were collected from three study sites, situated along the main axis of the reservoir. The contribution of NH4Cl-P and BD-P, i.e. the most accessible fractions biologically was similar at all stations (usually below 10%). The share of other fractions increased according to the sequence NaOH-RP < NaOH-NRP < HCl-P < Res-P. Only at station 1 the amount of phosphorus related to organic matter was lower than with aluminum. The domination of Res-P fraction indicated that the main part of phosphorus in sediment is biologically unavailable, therefore the intensity of phosphorus loading from sediments shall be low. However, high organic matter content, noted in sediments of Antoninek Reservoir, determined great amount of NaOH-NRP fraction. Both parameters remained under the influence of mats of macroalgae, growing intensively in the reservoir during vegetation season. The role of sediments as a source of phosphorus for water column enlarged, due to increased organic matter decomposition, especially in periods of high water temperature in this shallow reservoir.
Variability of bio-optical parameters in Lake Jasień Północny and Lake Jasień Południowy
Authors: Ficek Dariusz , Zapadka Tomasz
Published: April 2011

Variability of bio-optical parameters in Lake Jasień Północny and Lake Jasień Południowy

Bio-optical properties of water in two lakes from the Bytow district, Jasień Południowy (JS) and Jasień Północny (JN), were measured between 2007 and 2010. These lakes were chosen as reference for research in the Regional Environment Monitoring System (Wojewódzki Program Monitoringu Środowiska) between 2007 and 2009. The research concerned mainly OSCs (Optically Significant Constituents) such as chlorophyla, SPM (Suspended Particulate Matter), CDOM (Colored Dissolved Organic Matter) and optical parameters of water (Secchi depthzSD, diffuse light attenuation coefficientKd, PAR). The aim of this article is to present temporal variability of OSC and optical properties in the investigated lakes as well as the relation between OSCs and the optical properties of water. The research has shown that the variability in the properties of water of these lakes is quite significant: concentration of chlorophylCChlvaried from 1.3 to 32.3 mg m-3and theKd, PARcoefficient from 0.42 to 1.05 m-1. The obtained results were compared with the same parameters from other lakes in this region. The variability in the optical properties depend on the season and the biological activity of phytoplankton. Regression analyses showed a high correlation of optical properties of water withCChlandCSPM, and no correlation with CDOM concentration. The highest determination coefficient was obtained for the optical parameters correlated with the three OSCs. The presented results show not only annual variability and variability between the years but also an influence of OSC elements on the optical properties of lakes.
Morphometry changes of Lake Ostrowskie (the Gniezno Lakeland) on the basis of cartographic, remote sensing and geodetic surveying
Authors: Kunz Mieczysław , Skowron Rajmund , Skowroński Szymon
Published: April 2011

Morphometry changes of Lake Ostrowskie (the Gniezno Lakeland) on the basis of cartographic, remote sensing and geodetic surveying

The authors studied changes in the morphometry of Lake Ostrowskie over the period of 123 years on the grounds of cartographic materials, remote sensing data, land surveying, and data referring to the water stages. The changes that occurred in the lake up to the 1960s were related to the regulation and melioration works conducted in the entire area of the Gniezno Lakeland. On the other hand, drainage of the open pits of brown coal resulted in the considerable decline of the water table by another 2.5 m in the years 2002-2009. As a result of the decline of water down to 96.4 m a.s.l. the present lake was divided into two water bodies (the eastern one and the western one) joint with a channel. This led to the decline in the lake area from 346.7 ha in 1887 to 242.0 ha, and its volume by 28.9%, out of which by 18.3% only in recent twenty-eight years.
Differentiation of concentration level of iron compounds in water reservoirs in subsidence depressions in the Katowice Upland
Authors: Machowski Robert
Published: April 2011

Differentiation of concentration level of iron compounds in water reservoirs in subsidence depressions in the Katowice Upland

The aim of investigations was to evaluate the influence of varied anthropopression on the concentration of iron compounds in water reservoirs located in subsidence depressions treated as geosystems. Investigations were carried out during period of three hydrological years 2003-2005 within 10 reservoirs located in the Katowice Upland. The presence of iron was systematically measured in water and one time in bottom deposits. Measurements in taken samples were made by means of spectrometer of atomic absorption SOLAAR M6. Results confirmed varied influence of anthropopression on concentration of iron compounds in described reservoirs. It refers to waters and bottom deposits as well. Large differences between reservoirs occurred in a case of iron concentration in bottom deposits. The smallest amounts of it (3.10 g kg-1) were stated in transfer (flow-through) reservoir in Sosnowiec. Maximum values occurred also in reservoir in Sosnowiec, and the level of iron concentration in its deposits amounted to 44.28 g kg-1. Waters were also characterized by varied level of iron concentration. The lowest average values (0.0437 mg Fe l-1) were typical for one of reservoirs in Sosnowiec, whereas the maximum average iron concentration in amount of 0.4331 mg Fe l-1 referred to one of reservoirs in Zabrze. In the described reservoirs dynamic temporal changes in iron concentration in limnic waters was also stated. In every reservoir periods of complete disappearance of this metal occurred, whereas the maximum amounts of it in particular objects changed from 0.1132 mg Fe l-1 in reservoir in the borderland of Bytom and Chorzów up to 1.3744 mg Fe l-1 in reservoir located in Zabrze. The presence of iron compounds in the described water reservoirs on the one hand is shaped by environmental conditions, but on the other hand varied influence of anthropopression decides significantly of their spatial and temporal cycle in the nature.
Circulation of biogenic substances in the Kamionka river-lake system
Authors: Maślanka Wojciech , Jańczak Jerzy
Published: April 2011

Circulation of biogenic substances in the Kamionka river-lake system

Reservoirs in river-lake systems play a dominant role in the circulation of biogenic substances. Their evolutional transformations, consisting in accumulation of substances, results it their ultimate disappearance. However, at a given moment, the roles played by reservoirs are far more diverse - they accumulate, perform a transit role or supply the system with biogenic substances. The assignment of roles played in the system to reservoirs performed on the basis of data of 2006 was verified in 2007 with respect to the durability of their roles. Some of the lakes consistently accumulated biogenic substances. Their performing of this function in the system was facilitated by favourable morphometric conditions accompanied by strong pressure, exceeding the value determined for critical load. A tendency of supplying the system by other lakes was visible when they were charged with a lower load than the critical values for phosphorus load. The reservoirs then utilised the opportunity to discharge a part of biogenic substance present in them, partially of internal origin.
Assessment of the ecological state of lakes as proposed by the Polish Limnological Society
Authors: Bajkiewicz-Grabowska Elżbieta
Published: April 2011

Assessment of the ecological state of lakes as proposed by the Polish Limnological Society

The paper presents a method of assessment of the ecological state of lakes. It is based on methodology proposed by the Polish Limnological Society. According to this methodology, a set of indicators may be determined and may serve as a basis to make recommendations on what actions should be taken to maintain or restore a good ecological state of a lake. The set of indicators used for remedy recommendations includes: environmental pressure indicators that determine the rate of eutrophication in bodies of water, indicators of the state of the environment describing water quality and the balance of the water resources of a lake, and reaction indicators providing information on the degree of eutrophication of a lake.
Spatial variation of basin supply as a factor of water quality in a shallow, flow-through lake
Authors: Ferencz Beata , Dawidek Jarosław
Published: April 2011

Spatial variation of basin supply as a factor of water quality in a shallow, flow-through lake

Lake Syczyńskie is a water body that represents a group of the smallest Łęczna-Włodawa Lakes. The lake is supplied with waters from the four streams, while the outlet from the lake is directed into the Świnka River. The residence time of water is very short in Lake Syczyńskie. A role and variation of water supply from the catchment area were calculated using the mean seasonal loads transported from lakes sub-basins. A range of ionic migration into the basin of the lake was presented by means of daily and five-day radiuses. Among all inflows, C2 and C4 streams that drained Chełm Hills structure, were the most stable ones. The C3 stream that drained lake vicinity, was less important in shaping the quality of the lake water, while stream C1 was the one with a wide range of seasonal loads inconstancy. The highest fluviodynamic and matter transport occurred during the cold season. However, during the warm season in-lake processes were significant in terms of shaping the quality of lake water.
Soil transformations in catchment of disappearing Sumówko Lake (Brodnickie Lake District, Poland)
Authors: Gonet Sławomir , Markiewicz Maciej , Marszelewski Włodzimierz , Dziamski Andrzej
Published: April 2011

Soil transformations in catchment of disappearing Sumówko Lake (Brodnickie Lake District, Poland)

Lake disappearing is a natural process which contemporarily escalates in consequence of human activity. It is estimated that within the area of Northern Poland from the last glaciation period (ca. 17 000 years ago) a half of lakes totally have disappeared. Areas exposed after water basins desiccation have become native rocks for new soils. Reduced water level results in changes of morphology and properties of the soils situated in direct vicinity of former water basins. The aim of this study was to estimate impact of the catchment groundwater level fall on morphology and properties of direct lake catchment soils, exemplified by the lake Sumowko (Northern Poland) as well as description of new soils formed of lake sediments. The analysis covered 11 soil profiles emerging within former lake basin (newly formed soils) and soils from direct vicinity of former lake (modified through ground water level fall). Obtained results prove that newly formed soils (Limnic Histosol Drainic and Haplic Gleysol) in majority are utilized as grasslands. Soils of the former lake surroundings prove relic features of gleying while they are also subject to mucking process because of dehydration.
Total phosphorus and organic matter content in bottom sediments of lake under restoration measures with iron treatment
Authors: Kowalczewska-Madura Katarzyna , Dondajewska Renata , Gołdyn Ryszard
Published: April 2011

Total phosphorus and organic matter content in bottom sediments of lake under restoration measures with iron treatment

Rusałka Lake is a shallow, man-made, strongly eutrophicated reservoir, being a place of recreational activities for Poznan citizens. Restoration measures with the use of iron sulphate were conducted in years 2006-2007. Phosphorus and organic matter concentrations in lake sediments were analyzed in years 2005-2007 at two research stations (profundal and littoral) to determine its changes under the influence of restoration. Greater phosphorus concentrations were noted in profundal (max 1.55 mg P g-1dry weight (DW)) than in littoral (max 0.98 mg P g-1DW). An increase of P amount in sediment was observed after iron treatment. Among phosphorus fractions Res-P dominated, i.e. phosphorus biologically unavailable for organisms. Organic matter content reached 23.1% in profundal, while 14.8% in littoral. Its amount decreased in following years.
Overgrowing of two polymictic lakes in Central-Western Poland
Authors: Ławniczak Agnieszka
Published: April 2011

Overgrowing of two polymictic lakes in Central-Western Poland

This study examined the overgrowth in two eutrophic lakes during the period 1961-2008. In addition, for comparative studies, analyses of plant community structures in these lakes were performed to assess the effects of human pressure, such as water level reduction and increase of nutrient availability on changes in the range of the littoral zone surface. To achieve these aims aerial photos, ortophotmaps, GPS measurements were used to evaluate changes in plant cover in two lakes: Niepruszewskie and Tomickie. Considerable differences between the studied lakes located in an agricultural catchment were observed. Lake Niepruszewskie was characterised by a threefold higher rate of overgrowing, measured per hectare, in comparison with Lake Tomickie. Moreover, in comparison with lake areas, rates of overgrowing were substantialy higher in Lake Tomickie than Lake Niepruszewskie, which is almost seven times bigger. The littoral zones of both lakes are dominated by emergent vegetation. Compared to the data from 1961, the zone of Lake Niepruszewskie increased almost threefold. The biggest changes in overgrowing were observed after reduction of water level (>2002) which was 1.30 ha yr-1. During almost 50 years, emergent vegetation in Lake Tomickie increased more than fivefold. The most intensive growth was observed in years from 1961 to 1986, which amounted to 0.73 ha yr-1. Probably, water level reductions in Lake Niepruszewskie and high eutrophication in Lake Tomickie were recognised as major factors causing intensive overgrowing in the studied lakes.
Significance of reference observation in the evaluation of Secchi disk visibility on the example of lakes in the vicinity of Ełk
Authors: Maślanka Wojciech
Published: April 2011

Significance of reference observation in the evaluation of Secchi disk visibility on the example of lakes in the vicinity of Ełk

The method of measuring transparency of water environments using the Secchi disc is still applied, despite a certain level of subjectivity of obtained results. At present, it should be used as a supplement to more reliable methods of measuring the thickness of the euphotic zone. A serious drawback is the low informative value of isolated measurements of the transparency of water environments, representing different stages of cyclic annual variability. This is also confirmed by the summer visibility measurements in the waters of lakes near Ełk of 2003 and 2005. Reservoirs investigated twice were sometimes characterised by a significant diversity of the observed absolute values of the Secchi disc visibility in particular years. However, treating them as benchmark reservoirs makes it possible to determine relative relationships of optical properties among water environments of all the 21 lakes analysed then. They can be expressed in the form of an ordered sequence of reservoirs with increasingly better optical properties of water environments. The ordered sequence was verified on the basis of the research results of 2006. The observed stability of the position of the benchmark reservoirs with respect to each other makes it possible to abandon treating the observed isolated values of the Secchi disc visibility in other reservoirs as, out of necessity, representative ones of the investigated lakes. The knowledge of the values of scopes of the disc visibility in the waters of the benchmark lakes makes it possible to precisely estimate, against them, this value in less frequently investigated lakes.
Oxygen conditions and trophic state of Lake Głębokie (Szczecin, Poland) in the years 2008-2010
Authors: Nędzarek Arkadiusz , Tórz Agnieszka , Kubiak Jacek
Published: April 2011

Oxygen conditions and trophic state of Lake Głębokie (Szczecin, Poland) in the years 2008-2010

The research in Lake Głębokie was conducted in the years 2008-2010. Sampling from three selected sites was designed in such a way that vertical profiles of the characteristics of interest were obtained. Measurements were performed to determine the content of dissolved oxygen, oxygen saturation expressed as a percentage, water temperature, total phosphorus, chlorophyll a, dry seston mass, and Secchi disk depth. During the course of a year, water temperature varied from 0.58°C to 24.72°C. However, a permanent thermal stratification was not observed in the summer season due to complete water mixing. Dissolved oxygen concentrations in the water varied within a range that started at hard-to-measure insignificant values and reached up to 9.63 mg O2 l-1, while oxygen saturation reached a maximum of 116% O2. At the same time, it was observed that oxygen conditions gradually worsened as the depth became greater. The largest oxygen deficits occurred in the winter season of 2009-2010. The oxygen conditions were typical for an eutrophic lake. Its high trophic state was confirmed by an analysis performed using the method proposed by Carlson (1977) as well as by an analysis performed according to the directives of the OECD (1982). The trophic state of this lake is borderline eutrophic and hypertrophic. The oxygen conditions found in this lake ought to be seen as not beneficial to fish.