bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amnion formation in the mouse embryo: the single amniochorionic fold model
Authors: Pereira Paulo NG , Dobreva Mariya P , Graham Liz , Huylebroeck Danny , Lawson Kirstie A , Zwijsen AN
Published: August 2011

Background

Despite the detailed knowledge obtained over the last decade on the molecular regulation of gastrulation in amniotes, the process of amnion development has been poorly described and illustrated in mice, and conflicting descriptions exist. Understanding the morphogenesis and development not only of the early mouse embryo, but also of its extraembryonic tissues, is crucial for correctly interpreting fate-mapping data and mouse mutants with gastrulation defects. Moreover, the recent isolation from amnion of cells with stem cell features further argues for a better understanding of the process of amnion formation. Here, we revisit the highly dynamic process of amnion formation in the mouse. Amnion development starts early during gastrulation and is intimately related to the formation of the exocoelom and the expansion of the amniotic fold. The authoritative description involves the fusion of two amniotic folds, a big posterior and a smaller anterior fold. We challenged this 'two amniotic folds' model by performing detailed histomorphological analyses of dissected, staged embryos and 3D reconstructions using historical sections.

Results

A posterior fold of extraembryonic ectoderm and associated epiblast is formed early during gastrulation by accumulation of extraembryonic mesoderm posterior to the primitive streak. Previously called the "posterior amniotic fold", we rename it the "amniochorionic fold" (ACF) because it forms both amnion and chorion. Exocoelom formation within the ACF seems not to involve apoptosis within the mesoderm. The ACF and exocoelom expand without disrupting the anterior junction of epiblast, extraembryonic ectoderm and visceral endoderm. No separate anterior fold is formed; its absence was confirmed in 3D reconstructions. Amnion and chorion closure is eccentric, close to the anterior margin of the egg cylinder: we name it the "anterior separation point".

Conclusions

Here, we reconcile previous descriptions of amnion formation and provide new nomenclature, as well as an animation, that clarify and emphasize the arrangement of the tissues that contribute to amnion development and the dynamics of the process. According to our data, the amnion and the chorion are formed by a single amniochorionic fold initiated posteriorly. Finally, we give an overview on mutant mouse models with impaired amnion development.
Post-production protein stability: trouble beyond the cell factory
Authors: Vazquez Esther , Corchero José Luis , Villaverde Antonio
Published: August 2011

Being protein function a conformation-dependent issue, avoiding aggregation during production is a major challenge in biotechnological processes, what is often successfully addressed by convenient upstream, midstream or downstream approaches. Even when obtained in soluble forms, proteins tend to aggregate, especially if stored and manipulated at high concentrations, as is the case of protein drugs for human therapy. Post-production protein aggregation is then a major concern in the pharmaceutical industry, as protein stability, pharmacokinetics, bioavailability, immunogenicity and side effects are largely dependent on the extent of aggregates formation. Apart from acting at the formulation level, the recombinant nature of protein drugs allows intervening at upstream stages through protein engineering, to produce analogue protein versions with higher stability and enhanced therapeutic values.
Data-driven inference for the spatial scan statistic
Authors: Almeida Alexandre CL , Duarte Anderson R , Duczmal Luiz H , Oliveira Fernando LP , Takahashi Ricardo HC
Published: August 2011

Background

Kulldorff's spatial scan statistic for aggregated area maps searches for clusters of cases without specifying their size (number of areas) or geographic location in advance. Their statistical significance is tested while adjusting for the multiple testing inherent in such a procedure. However, as is shown in this work, this adjustment is not done in an even manner for all possible cluster sizes.

Results

A modification is proposed to the usual inference test of the spatial scan statistic, incorporating additional information about the size of the most likely cluster found. A new interpretation of the results of the spatial scan statistic is done, posing a modified inference question: what is the probability that the null hypothesis is rejected for the original observed cases map with a most likely cluster of size k, taking into account only those most likely clusters of size k found under null hypothesis for comparison? This question is especially important when the p-value computed by the usual inference process is near the alpha significance level, regarding the correctness of the decision based in this inference.

Conclusions

A practical procedure is provided to make more accurate inferences about the most likely cluster found by the spatial scan statistic.
Proteomic analysis of young leaves at three developmental stages in an albino tea cultivar
Authors: Li Qin , Huang Jianan , Liu Shuoqian , Li Juan , Yang Xinhe , Liu Yisong , Liu Zhonghua
Published: August 2011

Background

White leaf No.1 is a typical albino tea cultivar grown in China and it has received increased attention in recent years due to the fact that white leaves containing a high level of amino acids, which are very important components affecting the quality of tea drink. According to the color of its leaves, the development of this tea cultivar is divided into three stages: the pre-albinistic stage, the albinistic stage and the regreening stage. To understand the intricate mechanism of periodic albinism, a comparative proteomic approach based on two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and mass spectrometry was adopted first time to identify proteins that changed in abundance during the three developmental periods.

Results

The 2-DE results showed that the expression level of 61 protein spots varied markedly during the three developmental stages. To analyze the functions of the significantly differentially expressed protein spots, 30 spots were excised from gels and analyzed by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight-tandem mass spectrometry. Of these, 26 spots were successfully identified. All identified protein spots were involved in metabolism of carbon, nitrogen and sulfur, photosynthesis, protein processing, stress defense and RNA processing, indicating these physiological processes may play crucial roles in the periodic albinism. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR analysis was used to assess the transcriptional level of differentially expressed proteins. In addition, the ultrastructural studies revealed that the etioplast-chloroplast transition in the leaf cell of White leaf No. 1 was inhibited and the grana in the chloroplast was destroyed at the albinistic stage.

Conclusions

In this work, the proteomic analysis revealed that some proteins may have important roles in the molecular events involved in periodic albinism of White leaf No. 1 and identificated many attractive candidates for further investigation. In addition, the ultrastructural studies revealed that the change in leaf color of White leaf No. 1 might be a consequence of suppression of the etioplast-chloroplast transition and damage to grana in the chloroplast induced by temperature. These results provide much useful information to improve our understanding of the mechanism of albinism in the albino tea cultivar.
Harmonic scalpel versus flexible CO2 laser for tongue resection: A histopathological analysis of thermal damage in human cadavers
Authors: Hanby Duncan F , Gremillion Grayson , Zieske Arthur W , Loehn Bridget , Whitworth Richard , Wolf Tamir , Kakade Anagha C , Walvekar Rohan R
Published: August 2011

Background

Monopolar cautery is the most commonly used surgical cutting and hemostatic tool for head and neck surgery. There are newer technologies that are being utilized with the goal of precise cutting, decreasing blood loss, reducing thermal damage, and allowing faster wound healing. Our study compares thermal damage caused by Harmonic scalpel and CO2 laser to cadaveric tongue.

Methods

Two fresh human cadaver heads were enrolled for the study. Oral tongue was exposed and incisions were made in the tongue akin to a tongue tumor resection using the harmonic scalpel and flexible C02 laser fiber at various settings recommended for surgery. The margins of resection were sampled, labeled, and sent for pathological analysis to assess depth of thermal damage calculated in millimeters. The pathologist was blinded to the surgical tool used. Control tongue tissue was also sent for comparison as a baseline for comparison.

Results

Three tongue samples were studied to assess depth of thermal damage by harmonic scalpel. The mean depth of thermal damage was 0.69 (range, 0.51 - 0.82). Five tongue samples were studied to assess depth of thermal damage by CO2 laser. The mean depth of thermal damage was 0.3 (range, 0.22 to 0.43). As expected, control samples showed 0 mm of thermal damage. There was a statistically significant difference between the depth of thermal injury to tongue resection margins by harmonic scalpel as compared to CO2 laser, (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

In a cadaveric model, flexible CO2 laser fiber causes less depth of thermal damage when compared with harmonic scalpel at settings utilized in our study. However, the relevance of this information in terms of wound healing, hemostasis, safety, cost-effectiveness, and surgical outcomes needs to be further studied in clinical settings.
Induction of humoral and cellular immune responses against the HIV-1 envelope protein using γ-retroviral virus-like particles
Authors: Kirkegaard Tea , Wheatley Adam , Melchjorsen Jesper , Bahrami Shervin , Pedersen Finn S , Center Robert J , Purcell Damian FJ , Ostergaard Lars , Duch Mogens , Tolstrup Martin
Published: August 2011

This study evaluates the immunogenicity of the HIV envelope protein (env) in mice presented either attached to γ-retroviral virus-like-particles (VLPs), associated with cell-derived microsomes or as solubilized recombinant protein (gp160). The magnitude and polyfunctionality of the cellular immune response was enhanced when delivering HIV env in the VLP or microsome form compared to recombinant gp160. Humoral responses measured by antibody titres were comparable across the groups and low levels of antibody neutralization were observed. Lastly, we identified stronger IgG2a class switching in the two particle-delivered antigen vaccinations modalities compared to recombinant gp160.
Adult granulosa cell tumor associated with endometrial carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Ukah Cornelius O , Ikpeze Okechukwu C , Eleje George U , Eke Ahizechukwu C
Published: August 2011

Introduction

If strict criteria for the diagnosis of carcinoma are used and all patients with granulosa cell tumors are considered, the best estimate of the incidence of associated endometrial carcinomas is under 5%. In patients with granulosa cell tumors, estrogen-dependent endometrial cancers are rarely found, and most of these endometrial cancers are well-differentiated endometrioid adenocarcinomas that carry a good prognosis when detected early.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 65-year-old post-menopausal Nigerian woman of the Igbo tribe with an adult granulosa cell tumor that was initially treated as endometrial carcinoma. She underwent a total abdominal hysterectomy and a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy after histopathologic confirmation of a well-differentiated granulosa cell tumor of the ovary and a nuclear grade 1 adenocarcinoma of the endometrium (International Federation of Obstetricians and Gynecologists stage 1B). She had a good post-operative recovery and was discharged 10 days after treatment.

Conclusion

The association between adult granulosa cell tumors of the ovary and endometrial carcinomas is rare. A high index of suspicion as well as good imaging and histopathologic analyses are important in making this diagnosis.
Accuracy of Diffusion Tensor Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Based Tractography for Surgery of Gliomas Near the Pyramidal Tract
Authors: Ohue Shiro , Kohno Shohei , Inoue Akihiro , Yamashita Daisuke , Harada Hironobu , Kumon Yoshiaki , Kikuchi Keiichi , Miki Hitoshi , Ohnishi Takanori
Published: August 2011

BACKGROUND:

Diffusion tensor (DT) imaging-based fiber tracking is a noninvasive magnetic resonance technique that can delineate the course of white matter fibers.

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the accuracy and usefulness of this DT imaging-based fiber tracking for surgery in patients with gliomas near the pyramidal tract (PT).

METHODS:

Subjects comprised 32 patients with gliomas near the PT. DT imaging-based fiber tracks of the PT were generated before and within 3 days after surgery in all patients. A tractography-integrated navigation system was used during the operation. Cortical and subcortical motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) were also monitored during resection to maximize the preservation of motor function. The threshold intensity for subcortical MEPs was examined by searching the stimulus points and changing the stimulus intensity. Minimum distance between the resection border and the illustrated PT was measured on postoperative tractography.

RESULTS:

In all subjects, DT imaging-based tractography of the PT was successfully performed, preoperatively demonstrating the relationship between tumors and the PT. With the use of the tractography-integrated navigation system and intraoperative MEPs, motor function was preserved postoperatively in all patients. A significant correlation was seen between threshold intensity for subcortical MEPs and the distance between the resection border and PT on postoperative DT imaging.

CONCLUSION:

DT imaging-based fiber tracking is a reliable and accurate method for mapping the course of subcortical PTs. Fiber tracking and intraoperative MEPs were useful for preserving motor function in patients with gliomas near the PT.
Elsholtzia ciliatainhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation: role of calcium, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor-κB
Authors: Kim Hui-Hun , Yoo Jin-Su , Lee Hyun-Shik , Kwon Taeg Kyu , Shin Tae-Yong , Kim Sang-Hyun
Published: August 2011

Mast cell-mediated allergic reaction is involved in many diseases such as asthma and allergic rhinitis. Therefore, discovery of drugs for the prevention or treatment of allergic disease is an important topic in human health. In this study, we evaluated the effects of water extract of Elsholtzia ciliata (Thunb.) Hyland (Labiatae) (WEEC) on mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation and studied the possible mechanisms of action. WEEC inhibited compound 48/80-induced systemic and immunoglobulin E-mediated local anaphylaxis, and serum histamine release in mice. WEEC reduced intracellular calcium levels and downstream histamine release from human mast cells (HMC-1) activated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and calcium ionophore A23187. In addition, WEEC decreased gene expression and secretion of proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor- α, interleukin (IL)-1 β and IL-6 in HMC-1. The inhibitory effect of WEEC on cytokine expression was nuclear factor (NF)- κB and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) dependent. Our results indicate that WEEC inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammatory reactions by suppressing histamine release and proinflammatory cytokine expression, and involvement of calcium, NF- κB and p38 MAPK in these effects.
Low-dose naltrexone targets the opioid growth factor–opioid growth factor receptor pathway to inhibit cell proliferation: mechanistic evidence from a tissue culture model
Authors: Donahue Renee N , McLaughlin Patricia J , Zagon Ian S
Published: August 2011

Naltrexone (NTX) is an opioid antagonist that inhibits or accelerates cell proliferation in vivo when utilized in a low (LDN) or high (HDN) dose, respectively. The mechanism of opioid antagonist action on growth is not well understood. We established a tissue culture model of LDN and HDN using short-term and continuous opioid receptor blockade, respectively, in human ovarian cancer cells, and found that the duration of opioid receptor blockade determines cell proliferative response. The alteration of growth by NTX also was detected in cells representative of pancreatic, colorectal and squamous cell carcinomas. The opioid growth factor (OGF; [Met5]-enkephalin) and its receptor (OGFr) were responsible for mediating the action of NTX on cell proliferation. NTX upregulated OGF and OGFr at the translational but not at the transcriptional level. The mechanism of inhibition by short-term NTX required p16 and/or p21 cyclin-dependent inhibitory kinases, but was not dependent on cell survival (necrosis, apoptosis). Sequential administration of short-term NTX and OGF had a greater inhibitory effect on cell proliferation than either agent alone. Given the parallels between short-term NTX in vitro and LDN in vivo, we now demonstrate at the molecular level that the OGF–OGFr axis is a common pathway that is essential for the regulation of cell proliferation by NTX.
Dr Marjory Warren CBE MRCS LRCP (1897–1960): the Mother of British Geriatric Medicine
Authors: Denham M J
Published: August 2011

Dr Marjory Warren was a remarkable, formidable physician who reversed the neglect of chronic sick patients and brought their treatment into the modern era. She advocated the creation of the specialty of geriatric medicine with units based in district general hospitals, and that medical students and nurses should be taught about the diseases of old age. She treated the whole patient, applied advances in medicine and therapeutics, devised new techniques and equipment to assist disabled elderly stroke and amputee patients, and made great improvements in the ward environment. She emphasized the importance of the patient's social background, and electrified both staff and patients with her drive and enthusiasm. Many patients were treated successfully and discharged. Bed requirements were reduced and vacated wards allocated for other uses. She wrote extensively and lectured across the world to national and international approbation.
Louis Appia (1818–98): military surgeon and member of the International Committee of the Red Cross
Authors: Ottaviani R , Vanni D , Baccolo M G , Vanni P
Published: August 2011

From Appia's writings we compose a view on his contribution to international medical relief in warfare, to the establishment of the Red Cross and the Geneva Convention, and to surgical procedures on the battlefield. Much information comes from his work on the Battle of San Martino e Solferino in June 1859 on the subject of which he wrote seven letters. We report also on his role during the Garibaldinian Campaign in 1866 and his work in Europe as a member of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The curious affair of the identity of Fioravanti Sammut (b. 1863) and Temistocle Zammit (d. 1935)
Authors: Wyatt H V
Published: August 2011

Dr Zammit's experiments showed that brucellosis was transmitted by the milk of goats that did not show signs of infection or ill health. The British forces in Malta banned the use of goats' milk and brucellosis was eliminated in those forces. This research was published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society and earned him an Honorary DLitt from Oxford University and the Kingsley Medal of the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. The King knighted him. He was the great Maltese polymath but there is a mystery concerning his name.
Roberto Caldeyro Barcia (1921–96): establishing the basis of modern obstetric physiology
Authors: Dueñas-Garcia O F , Diaz-Sotomayor M
Published: August 2011

Physicians have used fetal heart monitoring for 300 years but it has faced a revolution in the last 50 years after the incorporation of new devices and the discovery of the normal patterns of labour. Dr Caldeyro Barcia in Uruguay was one of the pioneers of the development of intrauterine pressure monitors and, with Dr Edward H Hon (1917–2007), he established the basis of modern electronic fetal heart monitoring which is still used in most labour and delivery rooms across the World. Nowadays medicine and technology advances so fast that devices created 10 years ago are considered old fashioned or obsolete.
Computer Modelling and Simulation of the Current Density Distribution in the Human Body
Authors: Aronshtam Yulia , Tränkler Hans-Rolf
Published: August 2011

The aim of the study is to figure out the possibilities of computer modelling of human body and simulating the processes of the electric current distribution in the tissues in order to estimate the current´s effects on a human health. The research area was limited to the pulse current typical for electrical incapacitating devices (EID), e. g. electro-shockers. Thus, the present study might be applied for EIDs health effects evaluation, e. g. predicting the probability of causing ventricular fibrillation based on the current and charge densities in the heart area. The study was held in the frame of the “Safety and Security for Home and Living” workgroup.
Antibiotic Resistance: A Global, Interdisciplinary Concern
Authors: Stein Richard A.
Published: August 2011

This article presents a brief overview of the impact that antibiotic use in clinical medicine and in other settings, such as agriculture and animal farming, exerts on antimicrobial resistance. Resistance has been described to all antibiotics that are currently in use, and resistant strains were sometimes reported as soon as months after specific antibiotics became commercially available. There are many examples in which the increasing prevalence of resistant microbial strains jeopardized the continuing effective use of the respective antibiotics in clinical medicine. In addition to resistant infections that occur in health-care establishments, one of the recent challenges is the emergence of pathogens, such as MRSA, in the community, among individuals without any apparent risk factors for the infection. The transmission of resistant pathogens and antimicrobial resistance determinants across different components of the ecosystem transforms antibiotic resistance into a topic that extends beyond the scope of clinical medicine and needs to be visualized through an integrated global perspective that should incorporate a broad range of disciplines, including molecular genetics, microbiology, food science, ecology, agriculture, and environmental science. Understanding this complex multi- and interdisciplinary framework will enable the implementation of the most appropriate interventions toward determining the dynamics of antimicrobial resistance, limiting the emergence and spread of resistant strains, and ensuring the ongoing effective and safe use of antibiotics.
Addressing Misconceptions about Birth Control: Case Studies Immersing Students in the Facts & Real-Life Decisions
Authors: Zojonc Stephanie , Lavoie Bethann
Published: August 2011

Case studies generate active discussion and decision-making skills. This 50-minute case-study lesson teaches high school and undergraduate students about a fundamental and private aspect of their lives, birth control methods. Students direct their own learning by researching, teaching one another about, and making recommendations about the methods. Students are more likely to apply what they have learned to their own lives after being involved in and practicing decision-making skills during the cases. Because students openly discuss their ideas in relation to the cases, instructors can correct misconceptions about birth control without embarrassing students.
Choanal Atresia Associated With Tracheoesophageal Fistula: The Spectrum of Carbimazole Embryopathy
Authors: Douchement Dorothée , Rakza Thameur , Holder Muriel , Bonne Nicolas-Xavier , Fayoux Pierre
Published: August 2011

This article focuses on the case of a newborn infant boy with bilateral choanal atresia, tracheoesophageal fistula, and bilateral fifth-finger clinodactyly. This infant had been exposed to carbimazole in utero during the treatment of maternal Graves disease. Teratogenic defects caused by carbimazole were recently recognized, and their phenotypes have been defined. Choanal atresia, esophageal atresia, athelia or hypothelia, developmental delay, hearing loss, and dysmorphic facial features have all been reported. To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of tracheoesophageal fistula without esophageal atresia (H type). Knowledge of the teratogenic potential of carbimazole is important when managing Graves disease in women of childbearing age.
Recommendations for the Prevention of Perinatal Group B Streptococcal (GBS) Disease
Authors: Baker Carol J. , Byington Carrie L. , Polin Richard A. ,   Committee on Infectious Diseases and Committee on Fetus and Newborn
Published: August 2011

This Policy Statement was retired January 2015.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for the prevention of perinatal group B streptococcal (GBS) disease were initially published in 1996. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) also published a policy statement on this topic in 1997. In 2002, the CDC published revised guidelines that recommended universal antenatal GBS screening; the AAP endorsed these guidelines and published recommendations based on them in the 2003 Red Book. Since then, the incidence of early-onset GBS disease in neonates has decreased by an estimated 80%. However, in 2010, GBS disease remained the leading cause of early-onset neonatal sepsis. The CDC issued revised guidelines in 2010 based on evaluation of data generated after 2002. These revised and comprehensive guidelines, which have been endorsed by the AAP, reaffirm the major prevention strategy—universal antenatal GBS screening and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis for culture-positive and high-risk women—and include new recommendations for laboratory methods for identification of GBS colonization during pregnancy, algorithms for screening and intrapartum prophylaxis for women with preterm labor and premature rupture of membranes, updated prophylaxis recommendations for women with a penicillin allergy, and a revised algorithm for the care of newborn infants. The purpose of this policy statement is to review and discuss the differences between the 2002 and 2010 CDC guidelines that are most relevant for the practice of pediatrics.
Tumor Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Genotype and Depression in Stage IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Pirl William F. , Traeger Lara , Greer Joseph A. , Bemis Heather , Gallagher Emily , Lennes Inga , Sequist Lecia , Heist Rebecca , Temel Jennifer S.
Published: August 2011

Introduction.

Depression appears to be associated with worse survival from cancer, but underlying mechanisms for this association are unknown. In the present study, we explored the degree to which tumor genotype may be associated with depression in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We examined differences in depression severity and rates of positive screens for major depressive disorder among newly diagnosed patients with stage IV NSCLC and known epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) genotype.

Methods.

Newly diagnosed patients (n = 53) with metastatic NSCLC attending an initial thoracic oncology consultation completed self-report questionnaires regarding demographics, smoking behavior, and depression before meeting with their oncologist. Biopsy samples were subsequently genotyped, including screening for EGFR mutations. We conducted a retrospective chart review to obtain clinical data, including tumor stage, performance status, and EGFR genotype.

Results.

Twelve patients (22.6%) tested positive for EGFR mutation. No EGFR mutation–positive cases met the screening criteria for major depressive disorder, in comparison with 29.3% of patients with wild-type EGFR (p = .03). Mutations of EGFR were also associated with lower depression severity than with wild-type EGFR, independent of gender, performance status, and smoking history (p < .05). This finding persisted for both the cognitive–affective and somatic domains of depression symptoms.

Conclusions.

EGFR mutations were associated with lower depression severity and lower rates of probable major depressive disorder in patients with metastatic NSCLC, based on mood screening performed before results of genotyping were known. Findings support further work to explore the directionality of the associations and potential biological pathways to depression.
Cascading effects of long‐term land‐use changes on plant traits and ecosystem functioning
Authors: Laliberté Etienne , Tylianakis Jason M.
Published: August 2011

There is much concern that the functioning of ecosystems will be affected by human‐induced changes in biodiversity, of which land‐use change is the most important driver. However, changes in biodiversity may be only one of many pathways through which land use alters ecosystem functioning, and its importance relative to other pathways remains unclear. In particular, although biodiversity–ecosystem function research has focused primarily on grasslands, the increases in agricultural inputs (e.g., fertilization, irrigation) and grazing pressure that drive change in grasslands worldwide have been largely ignored. Here we show that long‐term (27‐year) manipulations of soil resource availability and sheep grazing intensity caused marked, consistent shifts in grassland plant functional composition and diversity, with cascading (i.e., causal chains of) direct, indirect, and interactive effects on multiple ecosystem functions. Resource availability exerted dominant control over aboveground net primary production (ANPP), both directly and indirectly via shifts in plant functional composition. Importantly, the effects of plant functional diversity and grazing intensity on ANPP shifted from negative to positive as agricultural inputs increased, providing strong evidence that soil resource availability modulates the impacts of plant diversity and herbivory on primary production. These changes in turn altered litter decomposition and, ultimately, soil carbon sequestration, highlighting the relevance of ANPP as a key integrator of ecosystem functioning. Our study reveals how human alterations of bottom‐up (resources) and top‐down (herbivory) forces together interact to control the functioning of grazing systems, the most extensive land use on Earth.
Uncertainty in hydrological modelling of climate change impacts in four Norwegian catchments
Authors: Lawrence Deborah , Haddeland Ingjerd
Published: August 2011

Projections for the hydrological impacts of climate change are necessarily reliant on a chain of models for which numerous alternative models and approaches are available. Many of these alternatives produce dissimilar results which can undermine their use in practical applications due to these differences. A methodology for developing climate change impact projections and for representing the range of model outcomes is demonstrated based on the application of a hydrological model with input data from six regional climate scenarios, which have been further adjusted to match local conditions. Multiple best-fit hydrological model parameter sets are also used so that hydrological parameter uncertainty is included in the analysis. The methodology is applied to consider projected changes in the average annual maximum daily mean runoff in four catchments (Flaksvatn, Viksvatn, Masi and Nybergsund) which are characterised by regional differences in seasonal flow regimes. For catchments where rainfall makes the predominant contribution to annual maximum flows, hydrological parameter uncertainty is significant relative to other uncertainty sources. Parameter uncertainty is less important in catchments where spring snowmelt dominates the generation of maximum flows. In this case, differences between climate scenarios and methods for adjusting climate model output to local conditions dominate uncertainty.
Impact of AMD processes on the public water supply: hydrochemical variations and application of a classification model to a river in the Iberian Pyritic Belt S.W. Spain
Authors: Grande J. A.
Published: August 2011

The aim of this work is to formulate a rapid method for finding out the degree of water pollution in the field, based on the toxicity produced by sulfates and metals dissolved in solution, using simple pH measurement in rivers that undergo AMD processes and which flow into public water supply dams. A classification model based on the degree of the impact is proposed, which is applied to a river affected by AMD in the Iberian Pyritic Belt, and which might serve as a reference for other dams that have to tolerate the arrival of mine water. Application of the proposed method will allow the approximate state of the water quality to be learned by simply measuring its pH. This may prove very useful during the design of hydrochemical control networks. Weighting and standardizing values allows the relative extent of the pollution to be quantified simply, still within the framework of the permitted limits for the public water supply, while the proposed graphical representation makes it significantly easier to understand the phenomenon and proves useful for comparing temporal or spatial variations over the course of a river.
Electrochemical inactivation kinetics of boron-doped diamond electrode on waterborne pathogens
Authors: Yao Yanyan , Kubota Yoshinobu , Murakami Taketoshi , Ochiai Tsuyoshi , Ishiguro Hitoshi , Nakata Kazuya , Fujishima Akira
Published: August 2011

A boron-doped diamond (BDD) electrode was constructed as a water disinfector for the inactivation of water borne pathogens. The bactericidal effect of the disinfector was evaluated on artificially contaminated waters containing, respectively, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Legionella pneumophila at high density. By treating the bacterial suspensions with 4 V of constant voltage between the BDD and the counter-electrode for 50 min, the population of E. coli and P. aeruginosa decreased from (10E + 7–8 colony-forming unit mL−1) to below the detection limits of the colony-formation method. Meanwhile, L. pneumophila were reduced to virtually zero when analyzed by fluorescence-based staining. The influences of production parameters (voltage, NaCl concentration and flow rate) on the disinfection kinetics of the BDD disinfector were examined with respect to operational conditions. Voltage was the most significant factor for adjusting the extent of electrolysis, followed by NaCl concentration and flow rate, to influence the disinfection efficiency. The disinfection of natural river water samples containing numerous microbes was performed for a practicability investigation of the BDD electrode. Approximately 99.99% bactericidal efficiency was confirmed by viability detection for E. coli and common germs in treated water. The results showed that the BDD electrode is a promising tool for various wastewater disinfections to combat waterborne diseases.
Occurrence of norovirus and other enteric viruses in untreated groundwaters of Korea
Authors: Jung Ji Hee , Yoo Chang Hoon , Koo Eung Seo , Kim Hak Min , Na Youjin , Jheong Weon Hwa , Jeong Yong Seok
Published: August 2011

A total of 39 water samples from 23 different groundwater wells in Korea were collected and analyzed in order to monitor the occurrence of norovirus (NoV) and other indicator microbes as the first part of a national survey of groundwater. More than 500 L of untreated groundwater were filtered through 1MDS filters. Following elution and concentration by organic flocculation, PCR and sequence analysis were employed to detect and identify NoV, enterovirus, rotavirus, hepatitis A virus and adenovirus (Adv). Somatic and F-specific phages, heterotrophic bacteria, total coliforms and Escherichia coli were also analyzed to infer possible fecal contamination. NoVs were detected in 18% of the 39 samples. Five out of seven NoV-positive samples (71%) were identified as GI while the other two (29%) were GII. Enteroviruses and Advs were detected in two and three samples, respectively. Rotavirus and hepatitis A virus were not detected. Total coliforms, E. coli and coliphages were detected in 49, 15 and 13% of the samples, respectively, but did not appear to be suitable indicators of enteric virus contamination in groundwater. These results suggest that additional treatment may be needed for a significant number of groundwaters prior to use as drinking water.
Quality assessment of roof-harvested rainwater in the West Bank, Palestinian Authority
Authors: Daoud A. K. , Swaileh K. M. , Hussein R. M. , Matani M.
Published: August 2011

Rain harvesting is becoming more common in the Palestinian Territories as a result of drinking water scarcity. Although it might pose serious human health risk, this water is being consumed without treatment in many areas of the West Bank. The present study evaluates the physicochemical and microbial quality of harvested rainwater that is used as potable water in the West Bank. Samples from roof-harvested rainwater storage tanks (n = 42) were collected in summer (SS) 2006/winter (WS) 2007. Physicochemical parameters measured were: temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, salinity, total dissolved solids, turbidity, nitrate, copper and lead. With few exceptions, all these parameters were within WHO guideline values. All samples (100%) were found to contain coliforms and to be heavily contaminated with heterotrophic bacteria. About 67% of all samples were contaminated with fecal coliforms. Specific PCR technique confirmed the presence of five pathogenic microorganisms that can be ordered according to their prevalence as: Citrobacter (83%) > Acinetobacter (78%) > Aeromonas (52%) > Pseudomonas and Campylobacter (7%). Prevalence of microorganisms in SS was higher than in WS. Although the physicochemical quality of most harvested rainwater samples was in accordance with WHO guidelines for drinking water, stored rainwater was significantly contaminated with bacteria resulting in significant human health risk from infectious diseases.
Genotyping of Acanthamoeba isolated from water in recreational areas of Tehran, Iran
Authors: Nazar M. , Haghighi A. , Niyyati M. , Eftekhar M. , Tahvildar-biderouni F. , Taghipour N. , Abadi A. , Mojarad E. Nazemalhosseini , Athari A.
Published: August 2011

A comprehensive survey assessing the presence of Acanthamoeba was conducted on 50 samples from water sources in parks and public squares from 22 municipal districts of Tehran, Iran. The prevalence and genotypes of Acanthamoeba were determined by PCR and the PCR fragments of ribosomal RNA genes sequenced. Sixteen (32%) samples were positive for Acanthamoeba spp. Sequence analysis revealed that the positive isolates belonged to the T4 and T5 genotypes. Fourteen isolates (87.5%) were T4, and two (12.5%) were T5. Acanthamoeba may be a problematic organism for contact lens wearers and for immunocompromised individuals. In Iran, Acanthamoeba keratitis has increased in recent years, mainly due to poor hygiene in contact lens wearers. A thorough survey for the prevalence of this amoeba could have a significant role in prevention of disease. This is the first report of the T5 genotype from water in recreational areas of Tehran.
Combining modeling and monitoring to study fecal contamination in a small rural catchment
Authors: Bougeard Morgane , Le Saux Jean-Claude , Teillon Anna , Belloir Jérôme , Le Mennec Cécile , Thome Sterenn , Durand Gael , Pommepuy Monique
Published: August 2011

The present study sought to identify Escherichia coli sources in a small catchment and to use the agro-hydrological model soil and water assessment tool (SWAT) to estimate their impact on river water quality. The innovative aspects of this research are to assess the hourly variations of fecal contamination and to take these variations into account in the model to provide a better evaluation of river quality. Thus, water samples were taken weekly at the river outlet (n = 4) and 24-h monitoring sessions were performed during low and high-flow periods (n = 74). E. coli variations were found to be primarily linked to rainfall and not to resuspension mechanisms. Subdaily fluctuations and deviations were ±0.33 log10 cfu/100 mL and ±0.70 log10 cfu/100 mL for dry (<3 mm/day) and wet (>3 mm/day) weather, respectively. After river flow calibration, all known pollution sources (septic systems, manure spreading, farm discharges) were introduced into SWAT. The model reproduced the fecal contamination in the river and the use of subdaily deviations allowed us to evaluate the simulation quality and compare grab samplings with simulated daily E. coli concentration, thus confirming that the performance of the model is better when additional information on hourly concentration variations is used.
The strategies of policy entrepreneurs in water transitions around the world
Authors: Huitema Dave , Lebel Louis , Meijerink Sander
Published: August 2011

This paper discusses sixteen instances of radical water policy change across the globe. The key question we seek to answer is about the role of individuals in such transitions. We call these individuals ‘policy entrepreneurs’ and we suggest that they can affect transitions through a set of strategies, such as idea development, coalition building, the detection and exploitation of windows of opportunity, network management, and venue shopping. Our empirical analysis shows that individuals do contribute to transitions. They do so in collectives, dividing tasks over various members. The way in which they manage to affect transitions depends, at least partly, on the institutional setting they operate in. Some national policy systems offer better opportunities for centralized direction (and thus top-down pattern of transitions) whilst other systems offer better chances for bottom-up change. In either case, change has to be prepared for before windows of opportunity open. One way to prepare change is to instigate pilot projects, showing the feasibility of other approaches to water management. Policy change is a political game: networks must be built, issues need to be framed strategically, forums manipulated or by-passed, and strategies adjusted to the peculiarities of the institutional system the entrepreneur is working in.
Optimal crop planning using a chance constrained linear programming model
Authors: Jothiprakash V. , Arunkumar R. , Ashok Rajan A.
Published: August 2011

A monthly time-stepped chance constrained linear programming (CCLP) model was developed to derive optimal cropping patterns and optimal operational strategies for the Sri Ram Sagar Project, with stochastic inflows. The stochastic nature of the inflows was incorporated into the model in its equivalent deterministic form. These equivalent deterministic inflow values were estimated from the annual and monthly probability distribution of observed inflows, and named the chance constrained linear programming model-annual and chance constrained linear programming model-monthly, respectively. The models were solved for nine different dependable inflow levels, namely for 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85 and 90% in each CCLP. The results of the models were compared with respect to net benefit, irrigation intensity, total cropped area, optimal cropping pattern, optimal releases, evaporation loss and initial storages. Based on the results obtained, it can be concluded that, in CCLP optimization, the probability distribution of ‘model time period’ (t-month in this case) should be considered rather than the probability of ‘planning time period’ (year in this case).
The Continued Lived Experience of the Unexpected Death of a Child
Authors: Parker Brenda S. , Dunn Karen S.
Published: August 2011

The purpose of this qualitative study was to further examine the lived experiences of families that faced the sudden loss of a child. Six mothers that had previously participated approximately 9 years ago in the study entitled “The Lived Experience of the Unexpected Death of a Child” were interviewed. All of the mothers were Caucasian and had achieved a high school or greater level of education. Taped interviews and field notes were transcribed for data display. Together, two raters completed data reduction and coding for theme identification and categorization. Six themes were revealed that described helpful coping behaviors used by the mothers: positive beliefs, faith beliefs, everlasting love, pleasant remembrances, social engagement, and staying connected. Two themes, avoidance and rumination, described the behaviors that did not help the mothers cope with their loss. Finally, answers to the questions regarding acceptance and healing time were also revealed.
Religious Beliefs along the Suicidal Path in Northern Taiwan
Authors: Fang Chun-Kai , Lu Hsin-Chin , Liu Shen-Ing , Sun Yi-Wen
Published: August 2011

This study aimed to understand the current inclinations toward depression and compulsion for members of four different religious groups, and to predict religious beliefs along the suicide path through analyzing the lifetime prevalence of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts for members of these religious groups. Participants in this cross-sectional study, which adopted purposive sampling, were members of Christianity, Catholicism, Buddhism, and Taoism in northern Taiwan. In the case of suicide experiences, suicides among people one knows, and tendency toward compulsion and depression, there are statistical differences between the four religions. According to the results, some people with suicidal tendency will attend religious activities; therefore, we predict that religious beliefs play an important role in suicide prevention.
Operation Characteristics of Zone 3 Distance Protection in Wind Power Systems with Fixed-Speed Induction Generators
Authors: Li Shenghu
Published: August 2011

The induction generators (IGs) are basic to wind energy conversion. They produce the active power and consume the reactive power, with the voltage characteristics fragile compared with that of the synchronous generators and doubly-fed IGs. In the stressed system states, they may intensify var imbalance, yielding undesirable operation of zone 3 impedance relays.In this paper, the operation characteristics of the zone 3 relays in the wind power systems is studied. With the theoretical and load flow analysis, it is proved that the equivalent impedance of the IGs lies in the 2nd quadrature, possibly seen as the backward faults by the mho relays, i.e. the apparent impedance enters into the protection region from the left side. The undesirable operation may be caused by more wind power, larger load, less var compensation, and larger torque angle.