bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking macroalgal δ
15N-values to nitrogen sources and effects of nutrient stress on coral condition in an upwelling region
Authors: Huang Hui , Li Xiu Bao , Titlyanov Eduard A. , Ye Cheng , Titlyanova Tamara V. , Guo Ya Ping , Zhang Jing
Published: September 2013

Land-based sewage pollution is a major threat to the health of near-shore coral reefs. Macroalgal δ
15N-values are useful indicators for tracking nitrogen sources and sewage input; however, the direct link between δ
15N-values of macroalgae and the coral condition, including live coral cover, species richness, and juvenile coral density, is unclear. Macroalgal δ
15N-values of two species, Lobophora variegata and Tricleocarpa oblongata, were measured in Wenchang (northeast Hainan Island, South China Sea) in both the dry and wet seasons, to assess the influence of nitrogen sources and nutrient stress resulting from sewage input or upwelling on the condition of corals. Macroalgal δ
15N-values showed that shallow stations between the reef and the coast were severely affected by sewage input (e.g., river discharges and aquaculture ponds), whereas deep stations on the outside of the reef were influenced by upwelling-based nutrients. Correlation and redundancy analysis demonstrated that δ
15N-values of L. variegata had a stronger relation with coral condition than any other environmental parameter (e.g., water quality index, turbidity, and dissolved nutrients), with significant negative correlations in both the dry and wet seasons. Thus, macroalgal δ
15N-values can be used to determine where nutrient stress is negatively affecting corals, highlighting the links of human activities and coastal upwelling with marine ecosystems.
The first record of Grateloupia subpectinata from the New Zealand region and comparison with G. prolifera, a species endemic to the Chatham Islands
Authors: Nelson Wendy A. , Kim Su Yeon , D’Archino Roberta , Boo Sung Min
Published: September 2013

A finely pinnately branched species of Grateloupia not seen previously in New Zealand was collected in Tauranga, New Zealand, growing on a tug boat. Molecular sequencing data (rbcL) revealed it to be Grateloupia subpectinata, a species first described from Japan, and also reported as native to Korea and China, and introduced to Britain, France, and Australia. The only species of Grateloupia with morphology similar to G. subpectinata in the New Zealand region is G. prolifera from the Chatham Islands. A sequence of this species was obtained for comparative purposes and found to be distinct from G. subpectinata.
Optimization of Trickle-Bed Reactors (TBRs) for Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) and Hydrodearomatization (HDA) of Diesel using Single and Multiple Objectives
Authors: Srinivas Bhadri , Karthik Srikanth , Sankararao B.
Published: September 2013

This article describes the formulation, solution and analysis of two single-objective optimization and one multi-objective optimization (MOO) problems on trickle-bed reactors (TBRs) involving hydrodesulfurization (HDS) and hydrodearomatization (HDA). The model used by Chowdhury et al. (AIChE J 2002;48:26) for TBR involving HDS and HDA is used in this study, to solve these optimization problems. The correctness of algorithm and the numerical procedure used in this study to solve the model equations are validated with the results of Chowdhury et al. (AIChE J 2002;48:26), before the model is used for optimization. Objective functions chosen in our optimization studies are minimization of sulfur concentration and maximization of total conversion of aromatics at the exit of TBR. Decision variables considered are reactor temperature, reactor pressure and liquid hourly space velocity (LHSV). Two single-objective optimization and one MOO problems are formulated and solved using simple genetic algorithm (SGA) and NSGA-II, respectively, to obtain the optimal values of reactor operating conditions. Pareto set for the MOO problem is generated which show that conflicting nature of the objective functions. Specifically, we have shown that the simultaneous minimization of exit sulfur and maximization of aromatics removal conflict each other in hydrotreating.
The Implications of HO and IRS Theories in Bilateral Trade Flows within Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Lohi Julie
Published: September 2013

Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries tend to trade less among themselves. This article analyzes the driving forces of bilateral trades within the SSA region. To do so, I use the gravity equations from Evenett and Keller (2002) and study what trade theories, the Heckscher–Ohlin theory of factor abundance or the increasing return to scale theory of product differentiation, account for the bilateral trade flows within this region. My results indicate that trades within this region do not arise from factor abundance or product differentiation. Trade policies that are aimed to promote trade within the region (i.e. FTA, custom unions) are likely to fail, because SSA countries produce similar homogeneous products. The key factor for economic success from international trade for the SSA region relies on how to manufacture products in different varieties and how to export their comparative advantage goods outside the region.
Enrichment of target sequences for next-generation sequencing applications in research and diagnostics
Authors: Altmüller Janine , Budde Birgit S. , Nürnberg Peter
Published: September 2013

Targeted re-sequencing such as gene panel sequencing (GPS) has become very popular in medical genetics, both for research projects and in diagnostic settings. The technical principles of the different enrichment methods have been reviewed several times before; however, new enrichment products are constantly entering the market, and researchers are often puzzled about the requirement to take decisions about long-term commitments, both for the enrichment product and the sequencing technology. This review summarizes important considerations for the experimental design and provides helpful recommendations in choosing the best sequencing strategy for various research projects and diagnostic applications.
Five Years Later: Are Accelerated, Second-Degree Program Graduates Still in the Workforce?
Authors: Raines Deborah A.
Published: September 2013

This retrospective study explores the work activities of graduates from an accelerated, second-degree BSN program. There is documented growth in the number of accelerated, second-degree programs and the number of graduates from these programs. However, there are no published studies of whether or not these graduates are members of the workforce 5 years following graduation. This retrospective study found that the majority of the graduates are employed in nursing, and a large percentage have earned or are pursuing advanced degrees in nursing.
The Spies Who Came into the Modernist Fold
Authors: Pearlman Jill
Published: September 2013

The Spies Who Came into the Modernist Fold: The Covert Life in Hampstead’s Lawn Road Flats draws on the field of intelligence history to cast new light on the 1934 modernist landmark in London designed by architect Wells Coates for clients Jack and Molly Pritchard. With the gradual opening of intelligence archives in Britain and Russia since the fall of the Iron Curtain in 1989, it has come to light that between 1935 and 1942, four prominent Soviet spies made their home in the Flats. In this article, Jill Pearlman investigates why the spies chose the Flats as their place of residence. Based on extensive research in both intelligence and architectural archives, she argues that the design, program for modern living, and setting of the Flats offered the Soviet agents a residence that facilitated their espionage work.
The Willed and the Unwilled Monument
Authors: Widrich Mechtild
Published: September 2013

The Willed and the Unwilled Monument: Judenplatz Vienna and Riegl’s Denkmalpflege takes a new approach to the competition for the Monument and Memorial for the Jewish Victims of the Nazi Regime in Austria. Noting the complication of the case by the discovery of medieval archaeological remains on Vienna’s Judenplatz, and the ambivalence of the jury in choosing a sculptural project that made no reference to these remains, Mechtild Widrich turns to a lucid source of thinking about memory and public building, Alois Riegl’s essay on the monument cult (Denkmalkultus) and the newspaper articles and government documents he produced on the same subject. Through Riegl’s distinction between “willed” and “unwilled” monuments, and the force the latter exert on the subjectivity of modern spectators, the choice and execution of Rachel Whiteread’s “Nameless Library” in Vienna becomes intelligible, as do wider trends in restoration and commemoration of the late 1980s and 1990s.
The age factor in survival of a population cohort of well-differentiated thyroid cancer
Authors: Mazurat Andrea , Torroni Andrea , Hendrickson-Rebizant Jane , Benning Harbinder , Nason Richard W , Pathak K Alok
Published: September 2013

Well-differentiated thyroid carcinoma (WDTC) represents a group of thyroid cancers with excellent prognosis. Age, a well-recognized risk factor for WDTC, has been consistently included in various prognostic scoring systems. An age threshold of 45 years is currently used by the American Joint Cancer Committee-TNM staging system for the risk stratification of patients. This study analyzes the relationship between the patients' age at diagnosis and thyroid cancer-specific survival in a population-based thyroid cancer cohort of 2115 consecutive patients with WDTC, diagnosed during 1970–2010, and evaluates the appropriateness of the currently used age threshold. Oncological outcomes of patients in terms of disease-specific survival (DSS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were calculated by the Kaplan–Meier method, while multivariable analysis was done by the Cox proportional hazard model and proportional hazards regression for sub-distribution of competing risks to assess the independent influence of various prognostic factors. The mean age of the patients was 47.3 years, 76.6% were female and 83.3% had papillary carcinoma. The median follow-up of the cohort was 122.4 months. The DSS and DFS were 95.4 and 92.8% at 10 years and 90.1 and 87.6% at 20 years, respectively. Multivariable analyses confirmed patient's age to be an independent risk factor adversely affecting the DSS but not the DFS. Distant metastasis, incomplete surgical resection, T3/T4 stages, Hürthle cell histology, and male gender were other independent prognostic determinants. The DSS was not independently influenced by age until the age of 55 years. An age threshold of 55 years is better than that of 45 years for risk stratification.
A new dark-dotted species of Hypostomus Lacépède (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) from rio Paraguaçu, Bahia State, Brazil
Authors: Zanata Angela M. , Sardeiro Byanca , Zawadzki Cláudio H.
Published: September 2013

A new species of Hypostomus Lacépède is described from the rio Paraguaçu basin, Bahia State, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by having black and conspicuous dots on a pale background, which are similar in size on the head, trunk, and fins, along with ventral surface of head and abdomen naked or the latter plated exclusively on its anterior portion, absence of ridges on head and trunk, and caudal-fin lobes relatively similar in length. The new species further differs from the sympatric H. chrysostiktos by having seven branched dorsal-fin rays instead of 10-11 and represents the eleventh siluriform species endemic to the rio Paraguaçu basin.
Gephyrocharax torresi (Characiformes: Characidae: Stevardiinae), a new species from the río Cascajales basin, río Magdalena system, Colombia
Authors: Vanegas-Ríos James Anyelo , Azpelicueta María de las Mercedes , Mirande Juan Marcos , Gonzales María Dolly García
Published: September 2013

A new species of Gephyrocharax is described from the río Cascajales basin, a tributary of the río La Colorada, río Magdalena system, Colombia. The new species is distinguished from its congeners, exceptG. melanocheir, by the absence of an adipose fin in most specimens and by the possession of a lateral branched pectoral-fin ray in males with a distal fan-shaped structure with minute bony hooks and a dark blotch or a few scattered dark brown chromatophores along its branches. The new species differs from G.melanocheir by the absence of an intense black pigmentation at the base of the anterior five dorsal-fin rays, the number of vertebrae (40-41vs. 38-39), the frontals contacting each other anterior to the epiphyseal bar in adults (vs. the absence of contact), the posterior margin of the mesethmoid straight in its central portion (vs. strongly concave at this point), the pouch scale of mature males reaching caudal-fin ray 11 or the area between caudal-fin rays 11 and 12 (vs. reaching only to caudal-fin ray 10 or the area between caudal-fin rays 9 and 10), the number of minute terminal branches of the lateral branched pectoral-fin ray of mature males (60-88 vs. 28-54), a longer black lateral stripe along the body in males (reaching to the base of the caudal-fin rays vs. reaching the middle of the length of the caudal peduncle), and the snout length (28.3-31.8% HLvs. 22.2-28.0% HL). The diagnosis ofGephyrocharax is modified to include species with the adipose fin variably present
A new species of Roeboides (Teleostei: Characidae) from Costa Rica and Panama, with a key to the middle American species of the genus
Authors: Matamoros Wilfredo A. , Chakrabarty Prosanta , Angulo Arturo , Garita-Alvarado Carlos A. , McMahan Caleb D.
Published: September 2013

A new species of Roeboides is described from the Pacific slope of Costa Rica and Panama. Roeboides bussingi differs from all other Central American Roeboides and all members of the R. guatemalensis species group by the following combination of characters: presence of 18-22 scales above the lateral line (vs. 12-16 in R. dientito); 15-22 scales below the lateral line (vs. 10-14 in R. dientito, and 20-24 in R. loftini); an inconspicuous, sometimes absent, crescent-shaped humeral spot (vs. a large round, conspicuous humeral spot in R. carti, R. dayi, R. dientonito, R. ilseae, R. loftini,and R. occidentalis); a small wedge-shaped spot that does not reach the lateral line (vs. a large spot crossing the lateral line in R. guatemalensis); a teardrop shaped caudal spot (vs. caudal spot triangle shaped in R. bouchellei); and a dark band at the distal tip of the anal fin (vs. dark band absent in R. bouchellei). A key to all Middle American species of Roeboides is also presented
Tometes camunani (Characiformes: Serrasalmidae), a new species of phytophagous fish from the Guiana Shield, rio Trombetas basin, Brazil
Authors: Andrade Marcelo C. , Giarrizzo Tommaso , Jegu Michel
Published: September 2013

A new species of Serrasalmidae, Tometes camunani, is described from the upper drainages of the rio Trombetas basin, Pará State, Brazil. The new species is distinguished from its congeners by having neurocranium with a slight concavity at the level of the frontal bone (vs. concavity absent, dorsal profile of neurocranium straight). It can be further distinguished from its congeners by having teeth with central cusp taller and acute (vs. central cusp shorter and with rounded edge in T. trilobatus), a terminal mouth (vs. upturned mouth in T. lebaili), and 12-26 prepelvic spines (vs. 0-9 in T. makue). The new species is strictly rheophilic like other species of Tometes, and occurs exclusively in the rapids of shield rivers, complex and fragile biotopes that are threatened by anthropogenic activities. An identification key to the species of the Myleus group is provided
Distributions and phylogeographic data of rheophilic freshwater fishes provide evidences on the geographic extension of a central-brazilian amazonian palaeoplateau in the area of the present day Pantanal Wetland
Authors: Ribeiro Alexandre C. , Jacob Rodrigo M. , Silva Ronnayana R. S. R. , Lima Flávio C. T. , Ferreira Daniela C. , Ferreira Katiane M. , Mariguela Tatiane C. , Pereira Luiz H. G. , Oliveira Claudio
Published: September 2013

The analysis of the distribution patterns presented by examples of freshwater fishes restricted to headwater habitat: the anostomid Leporinus octomaculatus, the characins Jubiaba acanthogaster, Oligosarcus perdido, Moenkhausia cosmops, Knodus chapadae, Planaltina sp., the loricariid Hypostomus cochliodon, and the auchenipterid Centromochlus sp. provided evidences of a relatively recent shared history between the highlands of the upper rio Paraguay and adjoining upland drainage basins. Restricted to headwater of the uplands in the upper rio Paraguay and adjoining basins, these species provide biological evidence of the former extension of the central Brazilian plateau before the origin of the Pantanal Wetland. Disjunction took place due to an ecological barrier to these rheophilic taxa represented tectonic subsidence related to the origin of the Pantanal Wetland. Molecular analysis of Jubiaba acanthogaster revealed that the sample from the upper rio Xingu basin are the sister-group of a clade that includes samples from the upper rio Arinos (upper rio Tapajós) plus the upper rio Paraguay basin, supporting the assumption that the origin of the upper rio Paraguay basin causing vicariance between this basin and the upper rio Tapajós is the least vicariant event in the evolutionary history of the group.
Trophic ecology of Arapaima in Guyana: giant omnivores in Neotropical floodplains
Authors: Watson L. Cynthia , Stewart Donald J. , Teece Mark A.
Published: September 2013

Using stable nitrogen and carbon isotope signatures, we investigated the trophic ecology and identified potential prey fish groups supporting the giant Arapaima within floodplain lakes of the Essequibo River basin in southwestern Guyana. Morphological descriptions of feeding structures and digestive tract are presented together with preliminary data on Arapaima diets. Stable isotope results suggest that algivorous/detritivorous and omnivorous fishes contributed most to Arapaima biomass, and generally, that was consistent with what is known about Arapaima diets. Stable nitrogen isotope ratios for piscivorous fishes in these lakes were higher than nitrogen isotope ratios for Arapaima, indicating that piscivorous fishes are unlikely to constitute a major source of energy for Arapaima. This population of Arapaima has an intestine averaging 1.45 times total body length, relatively small teeth, and numerous, closely-spaced gill rakers. These morphological features, together with isotope data, support our inference that Arapaima are secondary consumers and may be better characterized as omnivores and not top predators.
Intermittent sustained swimming in 'matrinxã' Brycon amazonicus (Bryconidae: Bryconinae): hematological and metabolic responses
Authors: Fabrizzi Fernando , Moraes Gilberto , Hackbarth Araceli , Almeida Luciana Cristina de , Arbelaez-Rojas Gustavo , Nunes Cleujosi da Silva
Published: September 2013

In fish, studies on a wide variety of physiological effects of exercise have been reported since a long time. It has been attributed special attention to some types of exercise, however, its application as a healthful practice in the rearing and welfare of farming fish is rising in last few years. In this particular, long-term intermittent sustained swimming (ISS) has been not yet explored. In this work, the freshwater fish Brycon amazonicus was submitted to (ISS) for 30 days at velocity of 1.0 body-length sec-1 for 12h interspaced by 12h under still water. Hematology and metabolism were evaluated. Exercised fish decreased 30% the erythrocyte number and hemoglobin was unvaried. The stores of liver glycogen and muscular triacylglycerol (TAG) were increased and the metabolic profile was typically aerobic. The slight decrease of liver (TAG) plus the full metabolic and hematic trait allow investing in this kind of exercise a beneficial practice in the rearing of fish species
Anesthetic activity of Brazilian native plants in silver catfish (Rhamdia quelen)
Authors: Silva Lenise de Lima , Silva Daniela Thomas da , Garlet Quelen Iane , Cunha Mauro Alves , Mallmann Carlos Augusto , Baldisserotto Bernardo , Longhi Solon Jonas , Pereira Ana Maria Soares , Heinzmann Berta Maria
Published: September 2013

There is an increasing demand for inexpensive and safe anesthetics that can reduce fish stress caused by some procedures such as capture and handling. In this context, the present study evaluated the potential of essential oils (EO) of three Brazilian native plants (Hesperozygis ringens, Lippia sidoides and Ocotea acutifolia) as anesthetics for the silver catfish - Rhamdia quelen. Moreover, an analysis was made of the chemical composition of these oils and their influence on stress parameter. EO of H. ringens and O. acutifolia were effective as anesthetics, without behavioral side effects. EO of O. acutifolia (150 µL L-1) promoted an increase in blood glucose level. Regarding to the composition, pulegone accounts for 96.63% of the EO of H. ringens, and caryophyllene oxide amounts to 56.90% of the EO of O. acutifolia. Two chemotypes, thymol and carvacrol (68.40% and 67.89%, respectively) were verified for EO of L. sidoides. Both samples of EO of L. sidoides showed anesthetic activity in silver catfish, but exposure also caused loss of mucus and mortality. Thus, only the EO of H. ringens and O. acutifolia are advised for anesthetic use
Relationships between morphology, diet and spatial distribution: testing the effects of intra and interspecific morphological variations on the patterns of resource use in two Neotropical Cichlids
Authors: Sampaio Ana Lúcia A. , Pagotto João Paulo A. , Goulart Erivelto
Published: September 2013

Considering th e morphology, diet and spatial distribution of Satanoperca pappaterraand Crenicichla britskii (Perciformes: Cichlidae) in the Upper Paraná River floodplain (Brazil), the following questions were investigated: (1) Could the body shape predict the use of trophic resources and habitat by C. britskiiand S. pappaterra? (2) Could the relationship between morphology and use of trophic resources and habitat be also extended to the intraspecific scale? (3) What are the most important morphological traits used to predict the variation on diet and habitat occupation within and between species? We hypothesized that intra and interspecific differences in morphological patterns imply in different forms of resource exploitation and that the ecomorphological analysis enables the identification of trophic and spatial niche segregation. Fish samplings were performed in different types of habitats (rivers, secondary channels, connected and disconnected lagoons) in the Upper Paraná River floodplain. Analyses of the stomach content was conducted to characterize the feeding patterns and twenty-two ecomorphological indices were calculated from linear morphological measurements and areas. A principal component analysis (PCA) run with these indices evidenced the formation of two significant axes, revealing in the axis 1 an ecomorphological ordination according to the type of habitat, regardless the species. The individuals of both species exploiting lotic habitats tended to have morphological traits that enable rapid progressive and retrograde movements, braking and continuous swimming, whereas individuals found in lentic and semi-lotic habitats presented morphology adapted to a greater maneuverability and stabilization in deflections. On the other hand the axis 2 evidenced a segregation related to the feeding ecology, between S. pappaterra and C. britskii. The relationship between morphology and use of spatial and feeding resource was corroborated by the Mantel test performed at inter and intraspecific levels. Therefore the hypothesis was accepted suggesting that analyses incorporating both intraspecific and interspecific morphological variations can contribute to a greater understanding about the ecological structure of fish assemblages by providing evidences on the niche characteristics of each species.
Analysis of artisanal fisheries in two reservoirs of the upper Paraná River basin (Southeastern Brazil)
Authors: Novaes José Luís Costa , Carvalho Edmir Daniel
Published: September 2013

We compared the artisanal fisheries, in terms of catch strategies, productivity, and gross per capita income, at two reservoirs: the Barra Bonita (an eutrophic reservoir with some introduced species), and the Jurumirim (an oligotrophic reservoir, with no introduced species). Published data and structured interviews with fishers were used to evaluate fishing activity, fish biomass, and the financial performance of the fisheries. In the Barra Bonita Reservoir we analysed data from 745 fishing trips, from which 86,691.9 kg of fish were landed, with a mean CPUE of 62.4 kg/fisher-1 day-1. The main type of fish caught was tilapia (71,513.5 kg; CPUE of 51.5 kg/fisher-1 day-1), which constituted 82.5% of the biomass caught. In the Jurumirim Reservoir, we analysed data from 2,401 fishing trips, from which 25,093.6 kg of fish were landed, with a mean CPUE of 10.4 kg/fisher-1 day-1. The main type of fish caught was "traíra" (6,158.6 kg; CPUE of 2.6 kg/fisher-1 day-1), which constituted 24.5% of the biomass caught. Ordination analysis (PCA) indicated that there was a difference in composition between the fishing reservoirs and ANCOVA showed that there was a significant difference in fish production between the reservoirs. A Student's t-test showed that fishers in the Barra Bonita Reservoir had a significantly higher gross per capita income than those from the Jurumirim Reservoir. Although the Barra Bonita Reservoir has a higher fish production and the fishers earn a higher gross per capita income, we recommend the Jurumirim Reservoir as a model for artisanal fishery management because fishing activity in this reservoir is viable in the long term and such a model would promote conservation and sustainability. This contrasts with the Barra Bonita Reservoir, in which the fishery is not viable in the long term, due to environmental problems caused by artificial eutrophication and the introduction of alien species. It is also noted that in many countries, management of fisheries based on exotic species has not been viable in the long term.
Invasion risks posed by ornamental freshwater fish trade to southeastern Brazilian rivers
Authors: Magalhaes Andre Lincoln Barroso de , Jacobi Claudia Maria
Published: September 2013

A model was developed to assess the risk of invasion of ornamental non-native fishes to six rivers in the state of Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil, with focus on species popularity. Thirty-nine aquarium shops, in six cities, were visited monthly from January to December 2007. In each city, fish species were identified, and their biology and invasion history information was obtained from the literature. We calculated the annual frequency of occurrence and average number of specimens monthly available in stores. Quarterly water temperature and dissolved oxygen data from 1997 to 2007 were obtained for the Velhas, Muriaé, Uberabinha, Sapucaí-Mirim, Doce and Todos os Santos Rivers from public databases. The invasion risk of each species was assessed through a model comprising nine parameters grouped in four variables: (i) Invasiveness (thermal and dissolved oxygen ranges, diet, parental care or fecundity), (ii) History of invasions (establishment), (iii) Propagule pressure (commercial success, comprising annual frequency of occurrence and number of specimens available monthly at stores), and (iv) Invasibility (water temperature and dissolved oxygen in the target river compatible with the species ranges). Of the 345 ornamental fish species for sale, 332 are non-native to either Minas Gerais (n = 151) or Brazil (n = 194). Based on the proposed cutting values, in particular the compatibility between species and recipient thermal ranges, five ornamental non-native species (Cyprinus rubrofuscus, Carassius auratus, Xiphophorus hellerii, Poecilia reticulata, and P. latipinna) can potentially invade the Velhas and Muriaé Rivers, four species (Cyprinus rubrofuscus, Carassius auratus, X. helleri, and P. reticulata) the Uberabinha River, four species (Cyprinus rubrofuscus, Carassius auratus, X. maculatus, and P. reticulata) the Sapucaí-Mirim River, three species (Carassius auratus, X. hellerii, and P. reticulata) the Doce River, and three species (Cyprinus rubrofuscus, P. reticulata, and Amatitlania nigrofasciata) can potentially invade the Todos os Santos River. Six recommendations are suggested to reduce the invasion risk of non-native fish on the rivers surveyed posed by aquarium trade.
Longitudinal use of feeding resources and distribution of fish trophic guilds in a coastal Atlantic stream, southern Brazil
Authors: Wolff Luciano Lazzarini , Carniatto Natalia , Hahn Norma Segatti
Published: September 2013

This study described the use of food resources and the distribution of fish trophic guilds along the longitudinal gradient of a coastal Atlantic stream, southern Brazil. Allochthonous resources (terrestrial insects) predominated in the headwaters, whereas autochthonous food items (algae, fish) and detritus predominated in the mouth section. Detritivorous, aquaticinvertivorous, and terrestrial- and aquatic-insectivorous species occurred throughout the gradient, while omnivorous and piscivorous in the headwaters and middle stretches, respectively, and herbivorous in the middle and mouth. Detritivores and aquatic-insectivores were significantly more specialized than the other guilds, however, there was no evidence of a longitudinal increase in trophic specialization. Density and biomass of aquatic-invertivores and aquatic-insectivores decreased, whereas that of detritivores increased longitudinally. The distribution of trophic guilds was significantly associated with the stream section, where aquatic and terrestrial insectivorous were more frequent in rocky and flowed stretches from the headwater and detritivores in deeper environments with finer particles of substrate from the mouth. This suggests that fish assemblages in coastal streams with a steep longitudinal gradient may follow patterns in the use of food resources according with the food availability along the river, as predicted by the River Continuum Concept.
Repeated stressors do not provoke habituation or accumulation of the stress response in the catfish Rhamdia quelen
Authors: Koakoski Gessi , Kreutz Luiz Carlos , Fagundes Michele , Oliveira Thiago Acosta , Ferreira Daiane , Rosa Joao Gabriel Santos da , Barcellos Leonardo Jose Gil
Published: September 2013

Fish repeatedly experience stressful situations under experimental and aquaculture conditions, even in their natural habitat. Fish submitted to sequential stressors can exhibit accumulation or habituation on its cortisol response. We posed a central question about the cortisol response profiles after exposure to successive acute stressors of a similar and different nature in Rhamdia quelen. We have shown that successive acute stressors delivered with 12-h, 48-h, and 1-week intervals provoked similar cortisol responses in juvenile R. quelen, without any habituation or accumulation. The cumulative stress response is more associated to short acute stressors with very short intervals of minutes to hours. In our work, we used an interval as short as 12h, and no cumulative response was found. However, if the length of time between stressors is of a day or week as used in our work the most common and an expected phenomenon is the attenuation of the response. Thus, also, the absence of both accumulation of the stress response and the expected habituation is an intriguing result. Our results show that R. quelen does not show habituation or accumulation in its stress responses to repeated stressors, as reported for other fish species
Effectiveness of the Corrective Babbling Speech Treatment Program for Children with a History of Cleft Palate or Velopharyngeal Dysfunction
Authors: Dobbelsteyn Cindy , Kay-Raining Bird Elizabeth , Parker Jennifer , Griffiths Charlotte , Budden Ashlee , Flood Kristina , Stilson Amie
Published: September 2013

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness of a phonetic-based, parent-administered treatment to reduce cleft-related speech errors.

Design

Immediate treatment (IT) versus delayed treatment (DT) comparison followed by analysis of gains over approximately 4 months and again after a longer period of treatment for participants in both groups.

Participants

Thirteen participants with a history of cleft palate or velopharyngeal dysfunction and speech disorder.

Intervention

After training, parents were instructed to conduct daily 10-minute sessions of phonetic drills with their children.

Main Outcome Measures

Group differences in percent consonants correct (PCC) were compared between those who did and those who did not receive the treatment. Pre- and posttreatment PCC comparisons were made after approximately 4 months of treatment and after termination of treatment.

Results

Participants receiving Corrective Babbling therapy showed significant gains in PCC in limited contexts after 4 months of therapy. However, gains were not significantly greater for the IT versus DT group. Participants who continued with the treatment for longer than 4 months showed the greatest gains in PCC and had significant improvements in all speech contexts assessed. Parents reported satisfaction with the program.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that this treatment shows promise for at least some children with a history of cleft palate and velopharyngeal dysfunction.
Continuous stiffness assessment of cement-stabilised soils from early age
Authors: SILVA J. , AZENHA M. , CORREIA A.G. , FERREIRA C.
Published: September 2013

Recently, an innovative technique based on continuous modal identification of the first flexural resonant frequency of a simply supported composite beam has been proposed for continuous evaluation of the E modulus of concrete from the instant of casting (termed EMM-ARM: elasticity modulus measurement through ambient response method), and has been successfully compared with other existing techniques. In view of its potential applications for the laboratory and in situ characterisation of cement-stabilised soils, the extension of using EMM-ARM for these materials has been preliminarily tested with promising results, but the extension of the procedure has also resulted in the identification of new challenges. The purpose of this paper is to show the results and conclusions of an experimental programme devised to evaluate a sand–cement mixture from compaction to 28 days later by comparing several testing methodologies: EMM-ARM, unconfined cyclic compression tests, bender-extender elements, and ultrasonic contact probes. Attention is also given to the issue of obtaining in situ samples using the EMM-ARM technique through a specially designed mould.
Numerical simulation of wave-induced morphology evolution
Authors: Karambas Theophanis V. , Koutandos Evangelos V. , Kampanis Nikolaos A.
Published: September 2013

This paper presents an integrated coastal engineering numerical model. The model simulates the linear wave propagation, wave-induced circulation, sediment transport and bed morphology evolution. The model consists of three main modules: Wave-LS, Wave-L and Coast. The large-scale module Wave-LS is based on the numerical solution of the directional wave energy balance equation. The near-shore wave transformation module Wave-L is based on the hyperbolic-type mild slope equation and is valid for a compound wave field near coastal structures where the waves are subjected to the combined effects of shoaling, refraction, diffraction, reflection (total and partial) and breaking. Radiation stress components (estimated from the large-scale module as well as from the hyperbolic wave module) drive the depth-averaged circulation module Coast for the description of the near-shore currents and sediment transport in the surf and swash zone. The module Coast is coupled with a three-dimensional bed evolution module to predict coastal bathymetry changes.
Discontinuities, cross‐scale patterns, and the organization of ecosystems
Authors: Nash Kirsty L. , Allen Craig R. , Angeler David G. , Barichievy Chris , Eason Tarsha , Garmestani Ahjond S. , Graham Nicholas A. J. , Granholm Dean , Knutson Melinda , Nelson R. John , Nyström Magnus , Stow Craig A. , Sundstrom Shana M.
Published: September 2013

Ecological structures and processes occur at specific spatiotemporal scales, and interactions that occur across multiple scales mediate scale‐specific (e.g., individual, community, local, or regional) responses to disturbance. Despite the importance of scale, explicitly incorporating a multi‐scale perspective into research and management actions remains a challenge. The discontinuity hypothesis provides a fertile avenue for addressing this problem by linking measureable proxies to inherent scales of structure within ecosystems. Here we outline the conceptual framework underlying discontinuities and review the evidence supporting the discontinuity hypothesis in ecological systems. Next we explore the utility of this approach for understanding cross‐scale patterns and the organization of ecosystems by describing recent advances for examining nonlinear responses to disturbance and phenomena such as extinctions, invasions, and resilience. To stimulate new research, we present methods for performing discontinuity analysis, detail outstanding knowledge gaps, and discuss potential approaches for addressing these gaps.
Effective Propagation of HPAM Solutions Through the Tambaredjo Reservoir During a Polymer Flood
Authors: Manichand R.N.. N. , Moe Soe Let K.P.. P. , Gil L.. , Quillien B.. , Seright R.S.. S.
Published: September 2013

Two new methods were developed for anaerobically sampling polymer solutions from production wells in the Sarah Maria polymer-flood-pilot project in Suriname. Whereas previous methods indicated severe polymer degradation, the improved methods revealed that the polymer propagated intact more than 300 ft through the Tambaredjo formation. Our results may help explain the inconsistency between good production responses and highly degraded polymer observed in many past field projects. Analysis of produced salinity, polymer concentration, and viscosity indicated that the polymer banks retained low salinity and, therefore, high viscosity for much of the way through the Sarah Maria polymer-flood-pilot pattern. A strong shear-thickening rheology was observed for 1,000 ppm and 1,350 ppm hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) solutions in porous media, even though the salinity was only 500 ppm total dissolved solids (TDS). Examination of injectivities revealed that these solutions were injected above the formation parting pressure in the Sarah Maria polymer-injection wells. Injectivity was insufficient until fractures were initiated hydraulically; however, the fractures propagated a distance of only approximately 20 ft and did not jeopardize sweep efficiency. In contrast, the short fractures greatly improved polymer injectivity and reduced concern about polymer mechanical degradation.
Agronomic Effectiveness and Phosphorus Utilization Efficiency of Rock Phosphate Applied to Winter Wheat
Authors: Abbasi M. Kaleem , Mansha Sobia , Rahim Nasir , Ali Ahsan
Published: September 2013

Rock phosphate (RP) is an important natural source of P for plant nutrition, but the solubility and availability of P from RP is an issue in agricultural production systems. Integrated use of RP with various organic and inorganic byproducts has been reported to increase RP P use efficiency and stability of crop yields. A 2‐yr (2010–2011 and 2011–2012) field experiment was conducted to examine the agronomic effectiveness and P utilization efficiency (PUE) of RP supplemented with wood ash, compost, and poultry manure with and without phosphate‐solubilizing bacteria applied to rainfed wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) in the hilly region of Kashmir, Pakistan. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized block design with factorial arrangement using three replications. Treatments included: control; RP; RP + wood ash (WA); RP + poultry manure (PM); RP + compost; control + phosphate‐solubilizing bacteria (PSB); RP + PSB; RP + WA + PSB; RP + PM + PSB; and RP + compost + PSB. Results indicated that RP alone did not show significant effects on growth and PUE of wheat; however, the use of RP with PM and compost improved straw yield (21 and 22%), grain yield (52 and 50%), plant P uptake (73 and 84%), and PUE (95 and 103%) over the RP alone. Also RP + PM and RP + compost, when inoculated with PSB, resulted in a further increase in yield of 9 and 8%, P uptake of 28 and 29%, and PUE of 35 and 42%, respectively. These results demonstrate that use of PSB and organic amendments with RP could be a promising management strategy and viable technology to utilize both low‐grade RP and organic materials efficiently for crop production and nutrient improvement in mountainous ecosystems.
Phosphorus and Potassium Fertilizer Effects on Alfalfa and Soil in a Non‐Limited Soil
Authors: Macolino Stefano , Lauriault Leonard M. , Rimi Filippo , Ziliotto Umberto
Published: September 2013

Fertilization strategies for high‐yielding alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) should take in account the increase in soil nutritional status that occurred during the last decades in areas with intensive agricultural use. A field study was conducted at the University of Padova, northeastern Italy, to determine the response of alfalfa yield and nutritive value to various combinations of P and K rates in a soil lacking nutrient deficiency. Alfalfa cultivar Delta was seeded in March 2005 on a silt loam soil having 38 mg kg–1 available P and 178 mg kg–1 exchangeable K. Nine treatments deriving from the combination of three P fertilization rates (0, 100, and 200 kg ha–1 P2O5) and three K rates (0, 300, and 600 kg ha–1 K2O) were compared in a randomized complete block design. Plots were harvested at bud stage during three growing seasons (2005–2007) and dry matter (DM) yield, forage nutritive value, P and K contents, canopy height, and stem density were measured at each harvest. Soil samples were collected at the end of the research period for determination of available P and exchangeable K. The results demonstrated that P application had no impact on yield and did not interact with K in determining productivity, while K had a positive effect on yield. However, the 300 kg ha–1 K2O rate appeared sufficient to maximize yield, without adverse effects on the forage nutritive value. Data from soil analyses showed that alfalfa has a high K uptake even when it is fertilized at high rates.
Maize Nutrient Accumulation and Partitioning in Response to Plant Density and Nitrogen Rate: II. Calcium, Magnesium, and Micronutrients
Authors: Ciampitti Ignacio A. , Vyn Tony J.
Published: September 2013

Maize (Zea mays L.) yields have advanced through breeding complemented with evolving management technologies including plant density (PD) and macronutrient fertilizer inputs. Little is known about management‐induced changes in plant uptake or allocation of nutrients other than macronutrients. Therefore, impacts of both PD and N rate at three levels (low, medium, and high) on Ca, Mg, and micronutrient partitioning (for pertinent plant organs at six growth stages) were investigated at four environments in Indiana. Grain Ca, Mg, Fe, and Zn contents at maturity were primarily influenced by N rate, while the PD × N rate interaction influenced those of Mn and Cu. At the whole‐plant scale, PD and N rate significantly influenced all nutrient contents, and vegetative‐stage nutrient accumulation averaged 91% (Ca), 51% (Fe), 47% (Zn), and 73% (Mn, Mg, and Cu) of corresponding nutrient contents at maturity. During the vegetative phase, three modes of leaf vs. stem nutrient partitioning were: (i) preferential allocation of Mg and Zn to stems; (ii) preferential allocation of Fe and Ca to leaves; and (iii) isometric partitioning of Cu and Mn. Isometric nutrient concentration patterns between Mg and Zn were documented in leaf, stem (vegetative phase), and ear (reproductive phase). Early‐reproductive‐stage nutrient partitioning from plant to ear was greatest for Zn and Mg and mirrored their respective harvest indices (HIs) at maturity. Nutrient HIs, concentrations (grain + stover), and internal efficiencies at maturity were positively impacted by N rate but negatively by PD. Reliable micronutrient requirement estimations for maize under diverse management and yield levels help inform future balanced‐nutrient input decisions.
Elite Upland Cotton Germplasm‐Pool Assessment of Fusarium Wilt Resistance in California
Authors: Hutmacher Robert B. , Ulloa Mauricio , Wright Steven D. , Campbell B. Todd , Percy Richard , Wallace Ted , Myers Gerald , Bourland Fred , Weaver David , Chee Peng , Thaxton Peggy , Zhang Jinfa , Smith Wayne , Dever Jane , Kuraparthy Vasu , Bowman Daryl , Jones Don , Burke John
Published: September 2013

During the past 9 yr, a new race of Fusarium (Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. vasinfectum [FOV Race 4]) has increasingly impacted cotton (Gossypium spp.) in the San Joaquin Valley of California. To assess the vulnerability of upland cotton (G. hirsutum L.) in California to FOV disease, elite upland germplasm lines from 13 U.S. public breeding programs across the Cotton Belt and commercial cultivars were evaluated for disease resistance to FOV Races 1 and 4. Ten independent replicated field trials were conducted: three in 2008, four in 2010, and three in 2011. Significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) were observed for disease severity index of leaves, vascular root staining, and plant survival values among the elite germplasm lines in all 3 yr for the levels of resistance–response to FOV Races 1 and 4. Also, significant interactions among germplasm lines, FOV races (1 and 4), and evaluation sites indicated that germplasm lines differed in mechanisms of plant‐defense response for the two FOV races. Selected lines from programs in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi showed at least a moderate level of tolerance to both FOV races; however, several of these lines produced weak and coarse fibers. Based on these evaluations, many of the entries in public breeders’ current elite upland germplasm pools may be more susceptible than expected to some FOV races, and sources of acceptable levels of resistance may be limited when tested under infestation levels that resulted in only 5 to 35% plant survival in susceptible check cultivars.
Perceptual Grouping in Artists and Non-Artists: A Psychophysical Comparison
Authors: Ostrofsky Justin , Kozbelt Aaron , Kurylo Daniel D.
Published: September 2013

Are advantages in complex object perception that have been observed in artists supported by advantages in more basic perceptual processes? To address this question, we compared artists and non-artists on a psychophysical task measuring perceptual grouping thresholds in order to test for group differences in sensitivity to perceptual grouping cues. Participants viewed grids of dots that could be perceptually grouped into a series of lines. The level of organization of stimuli was progressively reduced until perceived grouping was ambiguous. While artists were not observed to have an overall advantage relative to non-artists, non-artists exhibited sex differences in perceptual grouping sensitivity that artists did not. This suggests that the visual systems of male and female artists may be less differentiated than non-artist males and females.