bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amebic Pleurisy Secondary to a Liver Abscess: A Case Report
Authors: Benjelloun H. , Amir A. , Rattal A. , Harraz H. , Chaanoun K. , Zaghba N. , Yassine N.
Published: June 2024

We report a case of pleural amoebiasis, diagnosed on the basis of radioclinical findings and positive amoebic serology. Amebic pleuropulmonary disease is the most frequent extra-intestinal expression of amebiasis after liver disease. A 71-year-old male of rural origin, with no recent tuberculosis contagion, who presented purulent pleurisy with a dysenteric syndrome. The patient was treated by antibiotic and pleural decortication under U-VATS. Serological testing and radiological examination will be more useful in the early detection of cases of Entamoeba hystolitica infection. The medical treatement based on a combination of a tissue amoebicide (Metronidazole, etc.) and a contact amoebicide (Hydroxyquinoline, etc.). Surgery may be considered when purulent drainage does not show improvement in the patient's condition.
Effect of clay concentration on the wear behavior and permeability of polypropylene/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Horst María Fernanda , Tuckart Walter , Del Blanco Liliana , Failla Marcelo D. , Quinzani Lidia M.
Published: January 2012

The permeability and wear behavior of nanocomposites based on polypropylene (PP), polypropylene grafted with maleic anhydride (PPg), and montmorillonite (MMT) have been studied. Clay concentrations of 2–15 wt % and a constant PPg:MMT ratio of 3 : 1 were considered. The wear behavior of all materials was studied using the “pin‐on‐disc” technique. The results indicate that, for given clay concentration, the wear resistance decreases with applied load and that the composites are ∼ 20 times more resistant than their matrices. Moreover, the wear rate of the nanocomposites decreases as the clay concentration increases while that of the corresponding matrices increases. The PP, matrices, and composites display similar values of friction coefficient that neither changes with normal load. Additionally, the oxygen permeability of PP is gradually reduced by the increase of both clay and PPg concentration, being the effect of the filler tactoids much larger than that of the compatibilizer. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Microwave preparation and properties of O‐crosslinked maleic acyl chitosan adsorbent for Pb2+ and Cu2+
Authors: Ge Huacai , Chen Hui , Huang Shiying
Published: January 2012

A novel chitosan‐based adsorbent (CCTM) was prepared by the reaction of epichlorohydrin O‐crosslinked chitosan with maleic anhydride under microwave irradiation. The chemical structure of this polymer was characterized by infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction analyses. The effects of various variables such as degree of substitution, adsorption time, initial metal ion concentration, solution pH, and temperature, on the adsorption of Pb2+ and Cu2+ by CCTM were investigated. The results demonstrate that the microwave irradiation can remarkably enhance the reaction. CCTM has higher adsorption capacity than chitosan. The maximum adsorption capacities for Pb2+ and Cu2+, with initial concentrations of 0.02 mol L−1 at pH 5, are 246.3 and 132.5 mg g−1, respectively. The adsorbent can be recycled. These results have important implications for the design of effective chitosan‐based adsorbents in the removal of heavy metal ions from wastewaters. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
High‐throughput screening for cellobiose dehydrogenases by Prussian Blue in situ formation
Authors: Vasilchenko Liliya G. , Ludwig Roland , Yershevich Olga P. , Haltrich Dietmar , Rabinovich Mikhail L.
Published: January 2012

Extracellular fungal flavocytochrome cellobiose dehydrogenase (CDH) is a promising enzyme for both bioelectronics and lignocellulose bioconversion. A selective high‐throughput screening assay for CDH in the presence of various fungal oxidoreductases was developed. It is based on Prussian Blue (PB) in situ formation in the presence of cellobiose (<0.25 mM), ferric acetate, and ferricyanide. CDH induces PB formation via both reduction of ferricyanide to ferrocyanide reacting with an excess of Fe3+ (pathway 1) and reduction of ferric ions to Fe2+ reacting with the excess of ferricyanide (pathway 2). Basidiomycetous and ascomycetous CDH formed PB optimally at pH 3.5 and 4.5, respectively. In contrast to the holoenzyme CDH, its FAD‐containing dehydrogenase domain lacking the cytochrome domain formed PB only via pathway 1 and was less active than the parent enzyme. The assay can be applied on active growing cultures on agar plates or on fungal culture supernatants in 96‐well plates under aerobic conditions. Neither other carbohydrate oxidoreductases (pyranose dehydrogenase, FAD‐dependent glucose dehydrogenase, glucose oxidase) nor laccase interfered with CDH activity in this assay. Applicability of the developed assay for the selection of new ascomycetous CDH producers as well as possibility of the controlled synthesis of new PB nanocomposites by CDH are discussed.
Impaired iNOS–sGC–cGMP signalling contributes to chronic hypoxic and hypercapnic pulmonary hypertension in rat
Authors: Xia Xiao‐dong , Xu Zheng‐jie , Hu Xiao‐guang , Wu Cheng‐yun , Dai Yuan‐rong , Yang Lei
Published: January 2012

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important vascular modulator in the development of pulmonary hypertension. NO exerts its regulatory effect mainly by activating soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) to synthesize cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). Exposure to hypoxia causes pulmonary hypertension. But in lung disease, hypoxia is commonly accompanied by hypercapnia. The aim of this study was to examine the changes of sGC enzyme activity and cGMP content in lung tissue, as well as the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and sGC in rat pulmonary artery after exposure to hypoxia and hypercapnia, and assess the role of iNOS–sGC–cGMP signal pathway in the development of hypoxic and hypercapnic pulmonary hypertension. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed to hypoxia and hypercapnia for 4 weeks to establish model of chronic pulmonary hypertension. Weight‐matched rats exposed to normoxia served as control. After exposure to hypoxia and hypercapnia, mean pulmonary artery pressure, the ratio of right ventricle/left ventricle + septum, and the ratio of right ventricle/body weight were significantly increased. iNOS mRNA and protein levels were significantly increased, but sGC α1 mRNA and protein levels were significantly decreased in small pulmonary arteries of hypoxic and hypercapnic exposed rat. In addition, basal and stimulated sGC enzyme activity and cGMP content in lung tissue were significantly lower after exposure to hypoxia and hypercapnia. These results demonstrate that hypoxia and hypercapnia lead to the upregulation of iNOS expression, downregulation of sGC expression and activity, which then contribute to the development of pulmonary hypertension. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Role of Hydrocarbon Radicals CHx (x=1, 2, 3) in Graphene Growth: A Theoretical Perspective
Authors: Wang Chong , Xiao Bo , Ding Yi‐hong
Published: January 2012

Many outstanding properties of graphene are blocked by the existence of structural defects. Herein, we propose an important healing mechanism for the growth of graphene, which is produced via plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor decomposition (PECVD), that is, the healing of graphene with single vacancies by decomposed CH4 (hydrocarbon radical CHx, x=1, 2, 3). The healing processes undergo three evolutionary steps: 1) the chemisorption of the hydrocarbon radicals, 2) the incorporation of the C atom of the hydrocarbon radicals into the defective graphene, accompanied by the adsorption of the leaving H atom on the graphene surface, 3) the removal of the adsorbed H atom and H2 molecule to generate the perfect graphene. The overall healing processes are barrierless, with a huge released heat of 530.79, 290.67, and 159.04 kcal mol−1, respectively, indicative of the easy healing of graphene with single vacancies by hydrocarbon radicals. Therefore, the good performance of the PECVD method for the generation of graphene might be ascribed to the dual role of the CHx (x=1, 2, 3) species, acting both as carbon source and as defect healer.
Synthesis of Stable Ruthenium Olefin Metathesis Catalysts with Mixed Anionic Ligands
Authors: Gawin Rafał , Grela Karol
Published: January 2012

A series of ruthenium carboxylate complexes that contain two different anionic ligands was prepared. The complexes that bear iodide ligands exhibit remarkable chemical stability. Such complexes have a diminished tendency to undergo anionic ligand exchange and can be activated byvarious acids to form catalysts, which are active in olefinmetathesis reactions.
Ferrocenyl Maleimides – Synthesis, (Spectro‐)Electrochemistry, and Solvatochromism
Authors: Hildebrandt Alexander , Lehrich Steve W. , Schaarschmidt Dieter , Jaeschke Romy , Schreiter Katja , Spange Stefan , Lang Heinrich
Published: January 2012

Ferrocenylmaleimides have been synthesized from 2,5‐dibromo‐N‐methyl‐1H‐pyrrole. Bromine shift and oxidation of the pyrrole core with subsequent ferrocenylation using the Negishi C–C cross‐coupling protocol led to the formation of 3‐ferrocenyl‐N‐methylmaleimide (3), 3‐bromo‐4‐ferrocenyl‐N‐methylmaleimide (4), and 3,4‐diferrocenyl‐N‐methylmaleimide (5). The structural properties of 4 and 5 were investigated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. Cyclic and square‐wave voltammetry, in situ UV/Vis/NIR and IR spectroelectrochemistry (5) highlight the electrochemical properties of these compounds. Compounds 3 and 4 exhibit one reversible ferrocenyl‐based redox event, whereas 5 shows two separate electrochemically reversible one‐electron transfer processes with remarkably high ΔE°′ values and reduction potentials of E1°′ = 50 and E2°′ = 380 mV (ΔE°′ = 330 mV), respectively, with [NBu4][B(C6F5)4] as the supporting electrolyte. The NIR measurements confirm the electronic communication between the iron centers (FeII/FeIII) as intervalence charge transfer absorptions were observed in 5+. Compound 5 was classified as a weakly coupled class II system, according to Robin and Day. UV/Vis investigations of the solvatochromic behavior of 3–5 revealed the complex solvation of these push–pull systems, which reflects that three important solvent properties (hydrogen bond formation ability, polarizability, and solvation of the carbonyl group and the C=C bond) affect $\tilde {\nu}$max.
High‐performance capillary electrophoretic separation of double‐stranded oligonucleotides using a poly‐ (ethylpyrrolidine methacrylate‐co‐methyl methacrylate)‐coated capillary
Authors: Allan Kerrilee E. , Lenehan Claire E. , Khodakov Dmitriy A. , Kobus Hilton J. , Ellis Amanda V.
Published: January 2012

Here we describe a capillary electrophoretic method for the separation of double‐stranded oligonucleotides (ds‐ODNs) ranging from 16–20 bp with 2 bp resolution using a low concentration of poly(ethylpyrrolidine methacrylate‐co‐methyl methacrylate) (PEPyM‐co‐PMMA) copolymer physically adsorbed to a capillary surface. Contrary to traditional DNA separations, we show that the ds‐ODN with the highest molecular size eluted first and propose that this phenomena is due to a screening effect by the PEPyM‐co‐PMMA coating on the smaller ds‐ODNs negative charge during elution. Key to the performance of this separation was a sample preparation time of less than 1 h and analysis time of 40 min. Repeatability of intraday migration time for the mixtures was typically < 1% relative standard deviation (n = 3). In addition, we demonstrate that the coating has an acceptable capillary lifetime of over 70 injections.
A comparative survey of proteins from recalcitrant tissues of a non‐model gymnosperm, Douglas‐fir
Authors: Dziedzic Jowita Anna , McDonald Armando Gabriel
Published: January 2012

Most research in plants and other organisms has, for the sake of convenience, focused on the use of model species to identify mechanisms that are conserved throughout the whole kingdom. Nevertheless, unique features and processes such as those related to plant cell wall and fiber formation, and to wood quality, sometimes need to be studied directly in the non‐model organism of interest. Such organisms, like the economically and ecologically important gymnosperm Douglas‐fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii), which is one of the crucial softwood timber species in Northern America, are often difficult to investigate. High phenolic, resin, and tannin contents in the woody tissues, as well as an incompletely sequenced genome, have contributed greatly to the species’ recalcitrance for molecular biology investigations. In this study, we present a complete procedure detailing protein sample preparation, separation, and proteomic analysis based on cross‐species identification of Douglas‐fir. Proteins from the cambial zone, mature needles, and in vitro callus were extracted, purified, and separated via 1D and 2D SDS‐PAGE. One‐dimensional electrophoresis coupled with ESI‐MS/MS was used for cross‐species protein identification in order to evaluate the potential of this approach and reveal major differences in protein profiles among tested tissues. Identified proteins were functionally and developmentally compared. The likely contribution of these proteins to the properties of the cell wall and wood is indicated and discussed.
Experience plan for controlled‐atmosphere cone calorimeter by Doehlert method
Authors: Guillaume Eric , Marquis Damien Michel , Chivas Carine
Published: January 2012

Controlled‐atmosphere cone calorimeter is an interesting test method to study at the same time the effect of oxygen concentration and radiant heat flux on materials' fire behaviour and gas release. However, measurements in an extended range for these two variables can be tedious. To optimize the experimental measurement, this paper proposes a methodology based on the Doehlert design. The Doehlert method allows significant optimization of the number of tests. The optimization of measurement response is then accomplished using polynomial approximations to establish fire behaviour constitutive. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Continuation methods applied to the 2D Navier–Stokes equations at high Reynolds numbers
Authors: Wales C. , Gaitonde A.L. , Jones D.P.
Published: January 2012

Nonlinearities arise in aerodynamic flows as a function of various parameters, such as angle of attack, Mach number and Reynolds number. These nonlinearities can cause the change from steady to unsteady flow or give rise to static hysteresis. Understanding these nonlinearities is important for safety validation and performance enhancement of modern aircraft. A continuation method has been developed to study nonlinear steady state solutions with respect to changes in parameters for two‐dimensional compressible turbulent flows at high Reynolds numbers. This is the first time that such flows have been analysed with this approach. Continuation methods allow the stable and unstable solutions to be traced as flow parameters are changed. Continuation has been carried out on two‐dimensional aerofoils for several parameters: angle of attack, Mach number, Reynolds number, aerofoil thickness and turbulent inflow as well as levels of dissipation applied to the models. A range of results are presented. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An exploration of nursing home managers' knowledge of and attitudes towards the management of pain in residents with dementia
Authors: Barry Heather E. , Parsons Carole , Peter Passmore A. , Hughes Carmel M.
Published: January 2012

Background

The aims of this study were to explore the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs that nursing home managers hold with regard to the assessment and management of pain in residents with dementia and to determine how these may be affected by the demographic characteristics of the respondents.

Methods

A questionnaire comprising six sections was mailed, on two occasions during March and April 2010, to 244 nursing home managers in Northern Ireland (representing 96% of the nursing homes in Northern Ireland).

Results

The response rate was 39%. Nearly all respondents (96%) provided care to residents with dementia, yet only 60% of managers claimed to use pain treatment guidelines within their nursing home. Respondents demonstrated good knowledge about pain in residents with dementia and acknowledged the difficulties surrounding accurate pain assessment. Nursing home managers were uncertain about how to manage pain in residents with dementia, demonstrating similar concerns about the use of opioid analgesics to those reported in previous studies about pain in older people. Managers who had received recent training (p = 0.044) were less likely to have concerns about the use of opioid analgesia than those who had not received training. Respondents' beliefs about painkillers were largely ambivalent and were influenced by the country in which they had received their nursing education.

Conclusions

The study has revealed that accurate pain assessment, training of nursing staff and a standardised approach to pain management (the use of pain management guidelines) within nursing homes all have a significant part to play in the successful management of pain in residents with dementia. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Implications of a positive sentinel node in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Gurney Benjamin A. S. , Schilling Clare , Putcha Venkata , Alkureishi Lee W. , Alvarez Amezaga J. , Bakholdt Vivi , Barbier Herrero Luis , Barzan Luigi , Bilde Anders , Bloemena Elisabeth , Salces Carmen Camarero , Palma Paolo Dalla , de Bree Remco , Dequanter Didier , Dolivet Gilles , Donner Davide , Flach Geke B. , Fresno Manuel , Grandi Cesare , Haerle Stephan , Huber Gerhard F. , Hunter Keith , Lawson George , Leroux Agnes , Lothaire Phillippe H. , Mamelle Gerard , Silini Enrico M. , Mastronicola Romina , Odell Edward W. , O'Doherty Michael J. , Poli Tito , Rahimi Siavash , Ross Gary L. , Zuazua J. Santamaria , Santini Simone , Sebbesen Lars , Shoaib Taimur , Sloan Philip , Sorensen Jens Ahm , Soutar David S. , Therkildsen Marianne H. , Vigili Maurizio Giovanni , Villarreal Pedro M. , von Buchwald Christian , Werner Jochen A. , Wiegand Susanne , McGurk Mark
Published: January 2012

Background

The role of sentinel node biopsy in head and neck cancer is currently being explored. Patients with positive sentinel nodes were investigated to establish if additional metastases were present in the neck, their distribution, and their impact on outcome.

Methods

In all, 109 patients (n = 109) from 15 European centers, with cT1/2,N0 tumors, and a positive sentinel lymph node were identified. Kaplan–Meier and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to identify variables that predicted for additional positive nodes and their position within the neck.

Results

A total of 122 neck dissections were performed in 109 patients. Additional positive nodes were found in 34.4% of cases (42/122: 18 same, 21 adjacent, and 3 nonadjacent neck level). Additional nodes, especially if outside the sentinel node basin, had an impact on outcome.

Conclusions

The results are preliminary but suggest that both the number and the position of positive sentinel nodes may identify different prognostic groups that may allow further tailoring of management plans. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Acquired arteriovenous fistula associated with traumatic oroantral fistula: Endovascular treatment
Authors: Sanborn Matthew R. , Nasrallah Ilya , Stanton David C. , Stiefel Michael F. , Hurst Robert W. , Pukenas Bryan A.
Published: January 2012

Background.

Oroantral fistulas are pathologic connections between the oral cavity and the maxillary sinus. Arteriovenous fistulas are abnormal connections between an artery and a vein with no intervening capillary network.

Methods

We present an extremely rare case of barotrauma‐related oroantral fistula with an associated arteriovenous fistula between the internal maxillary artery and the ophthalmic venous system.

Results

The patient developed an oroantral fistula from barometric pressure changes in the setting of sinusitis. After closure and revision of the oroantral fistula, he developed proptosis and chemosis. Angiography revealed an arteriovenous fistula between the internal maxillary artery and the ophthalmic venous drainage system in the area of the oroantral fistula, which was treated with endovascular embolization.

Conclusions

Arteriovenous fistulas may accompany oroantral fistulas created by trauma or surgery and should be considered in patients presenting with chemosis and proptosis. Treatment with embolization should be performed before surgical intervention. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Cricotracheal reconstruction with free radial forearm flap and titanium mesh
Authors: Balasubramanian Deepak , Thankappan Krishnakumar , Shetty Sharankumar , Jayaprasad Kiran , Mathew Jimmy , Iyer Subramania
Published: January 2012

Background

Reconstruction after partial cricotracheal resection is technically demanding and is seldom reported in literature. The purpose of this study was to report a technique of reconstruction of such a defect with a radial forearm flap supported by a titanium mesh.

Methods

A 75‐year‐old man who was diagnosed with a case of papillary carcinoma thyroid, underwent excision of the tumor with a partial cricotracheal resection. The defect was reconstructed with a free radial forearm flap with fascia suspended on a titanium mesh.

Results

At a follow‐up of 6 months after treatment, the patient has normal nasal breathing and an acceptable voice.

Conclusion

This reconstructive technique enabled us to maintain the integrity of the subglottic airway. Our technique was unique in that we used the skin‐lined part of the radial forearm flap to line the airway and the fascia to cover the titanium mesh outside, thereby preventing plate exposure. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Assessment of second tier lymph nodes in melanoma and implications for extent of elective neck dissection in metastatic cutaneous malignancy of the parotid
Authors: Ch'ng Sydney , Pinna Audrey , Ioannou Kim , Juszczyk Karolina , Shannon Kerwin , Clifford Anthony , Uren Roger , Clark Jonathan R.
Published: January 2012

Background

The parotid is the commonest site of cutaneous metastases in the head and neck. The role and extent of neck dissection in patients with parotid metastatic cutaneous malignancy remains controversial.

Methods

We reviewed the lymphoscintigraphy and single photon emission CT (SPECT) of patients with melanoma who had a sentinel node in the parotid to determine the second tier cervical lymph nodes.

Results

Levels II and III cervical nodes make up 82% of second tier lymph nodes for the parotid, and levels IV and V, 12% and 4%, respectively. Second tier lymph nodes isolated to levels I, IV, or V, bypassing levels II and III, occurred in only 2% of cases.

Conclusion

The risk of harboring occult metastasis in levels I, IV, and V when levels II and III are negative is low. Levels II and III neck dissection is likely to be an effective staging procedure in patients with isolated parotid metastases. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Beiträge zur Biologie von Lutjanus analis (Cuvier & Valenciennes, 1828) (Lutjanidae, Perciformes, Pisces) an der kolumbianischen Atlantikküste
Authors: Erhardt Harry , Meinel Werner
Published: January 2012

Investigations on the biology of the red snapper Lutjanus analis (Cuvier & Valenciennes, 1828) were made in three different areas along the Colombian Atlantic Coast. Egg counting was carried out on 16 females. The numbers of eggs were correlated with the length and the weight of the fish. The results are presented in graphs, average values and regression equations.

To find the best mathematical relation between the fecundity, the length and the weight, linear and exponential equations were used. The best approximation to the relation between the number of eggs and the weight of the individuals was calculated by the parabola equation F = 20803 × G0.303, whereas the relation between the number of eggs and the length of the animals was most closely approached by the parabola equation F = 2922 × L1.1. Juvenile red snappers of a total length of 10 to 40 cm are very common in shallow‐water grass beds. The adult fishes migrate to offshore reefs and into deeper waters.

The sex ratio of the red snapper was about equal in all catches. The largest fishes we have found were males.
Topographic and faunal studies of shelf‐edge prominences off the central eastern Florida coast
Authors: Avent Robert M. , King Marian E. , Gore Robert H.
Published: January 2012

Eighty topographic transects were made off the central Atlantic coast of Florida between Cape Canaveral and Palm Beach, November, 1973 to September, 1974, aboard the Research Vessel Gosnold. Profiles obtained with a precision depth recorder indicated the presence of continuous and discontinuous structures on the outer continental shelf and at the shelf‐slope break. Most conspicuous was a band of pinnacles, benches, mounds and troughs extending north from Fort Pierce to Cape Canaveral, Florida, and a massive mound occurring off St. Lucie Inlet. These occurred under the western edge of the Florida Current and along the edge of the continental shelf (about 80° W). From Fort Pierce southward to Palm Beach, these structures almost disappear.

Dredgings in two selected areas of pronounced vertical profile, and preliminary visual and photographic observations made with the Johnson‐Sea‐Link I submersible, confirmed the existence of rich, sessile and motile invertebrate assemblages and fish populations associated with exposed limestone bedrock, talus, and the scleractinian coral Oculina varicosa.
Phytoplankton aus neu angelegten Streckteichen (Waldviertel, Niederösterreich)
Authors: Wawrik Friederike
Published: January 2012

The colonization of newly constructed fish‐ponds with phytoplankton is considered to be the result of inoculation by influents, airplankton and piscicultural measures. A considerable number of remarkable or new species have been observed, but bluegreen algae were extremely rare. The lack of a distinct seasonal succession in phytoplankton composition is attributed to the astatic character of the ponds. The following species are characteristic of the phytoplankton communities observed: Chlamydomonas sp., Chlorogonium elongatum v. plurivacuolatum, Cryptomonas sp., Cyclotella meneghiniana, C. pseudostelligera, Melosira varians, Pandorina morum.
Eine statistische Auswertung von Phytoplankton‐ und Nährstoffwerten aus den Boddengewässern des Darß und des Zingst (südliche Ostsee) unter Anwendung des nichtparametrischen Rangkorrelationskoeffizienten nach Spearman
Authors: Nasev Sophie , Nasev Dimiter , Pankow Helmut
Published: January 2012

A statistical analysis for the waters of the Darss‐Zingst inlets (Southern Baltic) using the rank correlation coefficient according to Spearman shows a significant correlation between the amount of phytoplankton and total dissolved nitrogen.

In contrast, no correlation could be found between phytoplankton and total dissolved phosphorus.
Factors relating to annual planktonic primary production in five small oligotrophic lakes in Terra Nova National Park, Newfoundland
Authors: Kerekes Joseph J.
Published: January 2012

Annual planktonic primary production in five small oligotrophic lakes in Newfoundland, as measured at maximum depth (P‐area) ranged from 5.6 to 12.0 g C/m2/year. Production per unit surface area representative of the whole lake basin (P‐area ) was considerably lower in the shallower lakes (3.3 to 6.4 g C/m2/yr), while production expressed per unit volume representative of the whole lake basin (P‐vol ) was the higher in the shallower lakes (0.6 to 4.1 g C/m3/yr). Production efficiency varied from lake to lake and throughout the year, but it remained fairly stable in a shorter term. Production efficiency and insolation was used to estimate annual production. Lakes with higher summer concentration of total phosphorus had higher rates of carbon assimilation.
Predicting fish yield in the Czechoslovakian section of the Danube river based on the hydrological regime
Authors: Holčík Juraj , Bastl Ivan
Published: January 2012

The authors found quite a close relationship between hydrological regime and fish yield in the Czechoslovakian Danube stretch. This relationship is not only true with the corresponding years but also for water level of the preceding year and the yield of the year to come. The equations characterizing the latter may, to quite a reliable extent, be applied to the prediction of fish yield in the next year. Biological mechanisms of the relationships investigated are discussed and examples of their utilization are given.
Microbial self‐purification in an experimental continuous‐flow system
Authors: Straškrabová VĚRa , Legner Miloš , Punčochař Pavel , Benndorf Jürgen , Cramer Franz
Published: January 2012

The decomposition of heterogeneous organic substrate by a mixed community of bacteria and protozoa was studied in a cascade with three stages and continuous flow (dilution rate 0.246 day−1 for each stage). Emphasis was put on the development of the community during the first seven days after dosing the substrate. During this period (20°C) no steady state or regular oscillations were achieved in the community structure. The substrate decrease in the whole system was around 70% of the inflow from the third day and the total net production of biomass fluctuated around 30% of the inflowing substrate. The grazing effect of protozoa was most pronounced on attached bacteria and on suspended single bacterial cells.
Estuarine benthic invertebrates of Indian river and Rehoboth Bays, Delaware
Authors: Maurer Don
Published: January 2012

From 1968 to 1970, 273 quantitative samples of macroscopic benthic invertebrates were collected seasonally (winter and summer) from Indian River and Rehoboth Bays, Delaware. A total of 103, 485 individuals representing 11 phyla and 149 species was taken. Mobile carnivores comprised 30.9% (46 species) of the fauna, selective deposit feeders 28.2% (42 species), sedentary suspension feeders 18.1% (27 species), nonselective deposit feeders 3.4% (5 species), and sessile carnivores 2.7% (4 species). In terms of number of individuals, selective deposit feeders and sedentary suspension feeders comprised 49.2% (51,442 individuals) and 43.7% (44,647 individuals), respectively. The average density (no./m2) was generally significantly higher in Indian River than Rehoboth Bay. Maximum density for the former was 106,871/m2 and for the latter 60,192/m2. Evenness diversity was normally slightly higher in summer than winter and higher in Rehoboth Bay than in Indian River Bay. The top three species, ranked by density and frequency of occurrence, were Ampelisca abdita, Gemma gemma, and Tellina agilis. Annual and seasonal changes in density and dominance (exclusive of the top three species) were substantial. Biomass patterns were very similar to areas north (Moriches Bay, New York) and south (Beaufort, North Carolina). It was suggested that larger invertebrates have been deemphasized in biomass estimates in past studies. It was concluded that Rehoboth and Indian River Bays contained an Ampelisca — bivalve (Gemma gemma, Tellina agilis, Mercenaria mercenaria) community.
Impact de la pollution sur un écosystème méditerranéen cǒtier. II. Relations entre la composition spécifique des populations phytoplanctoniques et les taux de pigments et de nucléotides adényliques (ATP, ADP, AMP)
Authors: Benon Patricia , Blanc Francois , Bourgade Brigitte , David Pascal , Kantin Roger , Leveau Michel , Romano Jean‐Claude , Sautriot Dominique
Published: January 2012

Influences of unsalted waters penetration, in the Gulf of Fos, are marked as much on the primary step structuration level as on the component cellular physiology one. At their outlet, the weak structuration and the considerable biomasses resulting from an intense eutrophication go with a strong mortality clearly shown as well as by ATP/chlorophyll ratio than these of ATP, ADP and AMP inside the adenylic nucleotides pool. The primary step acquires a larger maturity in the salt share of the south eastern area. Spectrum variations of the population specific cellular volumes in terms of population importance can in a certain measure explain the intracellular rate variations into biochemical components.
Worldwide distribution and ecology ofAlonopsis(Cladocera: Chydoridae) with a description ofAlonopsis americanasp. nov.
Authors: Kubersky Edward S.
Published: January 2012

WhereasAlonopsisis widespread in Eurasia west of the Ural Mountains, in the Western HemisphereAlonopsishas been recovered only in eleven lakes in New Hampshire and Maine and in two lakes in Newfoundland. The North American population is well differentiated from the EurasianAlonopsis elongataand is described as a new species,A. americana. To test if the species were reproductively isolated, parthenogenetically reproducing stocks from England and New England were raised in the labaratory, and subsequently induced to undergo gamogenesis. Interspecific crosses were never successful.
Notes on primary productivity of coastal waters in the Gulf of Elat (Red Sea)
Authors: Sournia Alain
Published: January 2012

The following parameters were measured during May 1976 along the coasts of the Gulf of Elat (or: Gulf of Aqaba): phytoplankton species composition, chlorophyll content and photosynthetic production; weight of suspended particles and nutrient concentration; chlorophyll content of the sediments. The study areas were coral reefs of the northern part of the Gulf and a mangrove pool south of it.

Phytoplankton characteristics and nutrient levels are those of oligotrophic waters. However, the sediments harbour such an abundant plant biomass that in coastal waters per m2 surface area, there is several hundred times more chlorophyll in the sand than in the plankton. Reasons why both the mangrove and the coral reef may exhibit the same trends are discussed.
Efficacy of a porous‐structured titanium subdermal barrier for preventing infection in percutaneous osseointegrated prostheses
Authors: Jeyapalina Sujee , Beck James Peter , Bachus Kent N. , Williams Dustin L. , Bloebaum Roy D.
Published: January 2012

Infections of percutaneous osseointegrated prostheses (POP) cause prolonged morbidity and device failure because once established, they are refractory to antibiotic therapy. To date, only limited translational animal studies have investigated the efficacy of POP designs in preventing infections. We developed an animal model to evaluate the efficacy of a porous‐coated titanium (Ti) subdermal barrier to achieve skin–implant integration and to prevent periprosthetic infection. In a single‐stage “amputation and implantation” surgery, 14 sheep were fitted with percutaneous devices with an attached porous‐coated Ti subdermal barrier. Nine sheep were implanted with a smooth Ti subdermal barrier construct and served as controls, with one control sheep removed from the study due to a fractured bone. Clinical, microbiological, and histopathological data showed that the porous Ti barrier prevented superficial and deep tissue infections in all animals (14/14, 100%) at the 9‐month endpoint. In contrast, animals with the smooth Ti implant construct had a 25% (2/8) infection rate. Survival analysis indicated a significant difference between the groups (log‐rank test,p = 0.018). Data also indicated that although skin marsupialization was evident in both implant types, animals in the control group had a four times greater marsupialization rate. We concluded that osseointegrated implants incorporating porous‐coated Ti subdermal barriers may have the ability to prevent infection by maintaining a healthy, biologically attached epithelial barrier at the skin–implant interface in load‐bearing animals up to a 9‐month terminus. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 30:1304–1311, 2012
Body size and body volume distribution in two sauropods from the Upper Jurassic of Tendaguru (Tanzania)
Authors: Gunga H.-C. , Kirsch K. , Rittweger J. , Röcker L. , Clarke A. , Albertz J. , Wiedemann A. , Mokry S. , Suthau T. , Wehr A. , Heinrich W.-D. , Schultze H.-P.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. Allometric equations are often based on the body mass of an animal because body mass determines many physiological functions. This should also hold for Brachiosaurus brancai and Dicraeosaurus hansemanni, two sauropods from the Upper Jurassic of Tendaguru/Tanzania (East Africa). Widely divergent estimates of body mass for the same specimen can be found in the literature for these two sauropods. Therefore, in order to determine the exact body mass and volume distribution in these sauropods, classical three-dimensional stereophotogrammetry as well as a newly developed laser scanner technique were applied to the mounted skeletons of Brachiosaurus brancai and Dicraeosaurus hansemanni in the Museum für Naturkunde (Berlin, Germany). Thereafter, scaling equations were used to estimate the size of organ systems. In a second step it was tested whether the given data from photogrammetry could be brought in line with the results derived from the allometric equations. These findings are applied to possible ecological problems in the Upper Jurassic of Tendaguru/Tanzania. Der Körpermasse eines Organismus werden oft allometrische Funktionen zugrunde gelegt, da von ihr viele physiologische Funktionen entscheidend abhängen. Dies sollte auch für ausgestorbene Organismen wie Brachiosaurus brancai und Dicraeosaurus hansemanni, zwei Sauropoden aus dem oberen Jura von Tendaguru/Tanzania in Ostafrika gelten. Da zu beiden Sauropoden nur sehr unterschiedliche Massenabschätzungen vorliegen, wurden die Körpermassen und Volumina von Brachiosaurus brancai und Dicraeosaurus hansemanni mit Hilfe der klassischen Photogrammetrie sowie einem neuentwickelten Laserscannerverfahren neu bestimmt. Basierend auf den so gemessenen Körpermassendaten wurden anschließend einige wichtige funktionell-morphologische Größen für eine paläophysiologische Rekonstruktion dieser Sauropoden mit Hilfe der Allometrie berechnet. Die gewonnenen Ergebnisse sind u. a. wichtig für die Rekonstruktion eines Ökosystems im oberen Jura von Ostafrika. doi:10.1002/mmng.1999.4860020106
First haramiyid (Mammalia, Allotheria) from the Mesozoic of Gondwana
Authors: Heinrich W.-D.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. A haramiyid tooth is described from the Upper Jurassic of Tendaguru in southwestern Tanzania, East Africa. The specimen, identified tentatively as a lower posterior premolar, is made the holotype of a new taxon, Staffia aenigmatica gen. et sp. nov. which is placed in the Haramiyida. Staffia gen. nov. shares several features with Thomasia from the Late Triassic to Early Jurassic of Europe, notably the arrangement of cusps in two parallel longitudinal rows bordering a central basin, cusp height which progressively decreases in both rows posteriorly, the different height of the rows, the U-shaped posterior rim, and the smooth enamel surface. The main difference between these taxa is the presence of well-developed synclines with rounded floors in Staffia gen. nov., especially that of the principal syncline LS1. Resemblances in the basic tooth crown pattern indicate that occlusion and chewing might have been similar in both genera, but the synclines in Staffia gen. nov. suggest some subtle differences in food processing. Staffia aenigmatica gen. et sp. nov. is the first record of a haramiyid from Gondwana, and also the youngest stratigraphic occurrence for this allotherian group so far. Ein unterer Backenzahn aus den oberjurassischen Tendaguru-Schichten von Tansania in Ostafrika wird als Staffia aenigmatica gen. et sp. nov. beschrieben und zu den Haramiyida gestellt. Bei dem Fund handelt es sich wahrscheinlich um einen hinteren unteren Prämolaren. Staffia gen. nov. weist zahlreiche Merkmale auf, die bei der spät-triassischen bis früh-jurassischen Gattung Thomasia auftreten. Dazu zählen z. B. die Anordnung der Höcker in zwei unterschiedlich hohen Längsreihen, die in beiden Reihen von vorn nach hinten abnehmende Höckerhöhe, der U-förmige Hinterrand und die glatte Schmelzoberfläche. Die Synklinalen zwischen den Zahnhöckern von Staffia gen. nov. stellen ein neuerworbenes Merkmal dar. Die weitgehenden Übereinstimmungen im Grundaufbau der Zahnkronen beider Gattungen lassen darauf schließen, daß die Kieferbewegung und der Kauvorgang ähnlich waren, doch deuten die Synclinalen bei Staffia gen. nov. auf eine differenziertere Aufbereitung der Nahrung hin. Staffia aenigmatica gen. et sp. nov. ist der erste Nachweis eines Haramiyiden auf dem Gondwana-Kontinent und zugleich der bisher erdgeschichtlich jüngste Beleg für diese Säugetiergruppe. doi:10.1002/mmng.1999.4860020112
Some charophytes from the middle dinosaur member of the Tendaguru formation (Upper Jurassic of Tanzania)
Authors: Schudack M. E.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. Biostratigraphy and paleoecology of the famous dinosaur beds of Tendaguru Formation, Tanzania, East Africa are still under discussion. Calcareous microfossils have not yet contributed to this question. Four samples from the Middle Dinosaur Member have now yielded charophyte gyrogonites of the species Aclistochara cf. bransonii, Aclistochara cf. minor, Mesochara canellata, and Mesochara harrisi. Considering ammonite datations in under- and overlying members, even their long stratigrapical ranges point to a Kimmeridgian age for the Middle Dinosaur Member of Tendaguru Formation. Salinity tolerances of the species (if autochthonous) suggest a variable environment with partly brackish, partly freshwater influences. Biostratigraphie und Paläoökologie der berühmten Dinosaurier-Fundschichten am Tendaguru Hill in Tansania (Ostafrika) sind bis heute umstritten. Kalkige Mikrofossilien hatten zu dieser Diskussion bisher nicht beigetragen. In vier Proben aus dem Mittleren Dinosauriermergel fanden sich nun Charophyten-Gyrogonite der Arten Aclistochara cf. bransonii, Aclistochara cf. minor, Mesochara canellata und Mesochara harrisi. Trotz generell langer stratigraphischer Reichweiten dieser Arten macht ihr Vorkommen im Zusammenhang mit Ammonitenfunden in unter- und überlagernden Schichten ein Kimmeridgium-Alter des Mittleren Dinosauriermergels wahrscheinlich, während ihre Salinitätstoleranzen (autochthones Vorkommen vorausgesetzt) auf ein wechselhaftes Milieu mit teils schwach brackischen, teils Süßwassereinflüssen hindeuten. doi:10.1002/mmng.1999.4860020115
Measuring depression using item response theory: an examination of three measures of depressive symptomatology
Authors: Olino Thomas M. , Yu Lan , Klein Daniel N. , Rohde Paul , Seeley John R. , Pilkonis Paul A. , Lewinsohn Peter M.
Published: January 2012

Evaluations of assessment instruments using classical test theory typically rely on indices of internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and construct validity. However, the use of models from item response theory (IRT) allows comparison of instruments (and items) in terms of the information they provide and where they provide it along the continuum of severity of the construct being assessed. Such results help to identify the measures most appropriate for specific clinical and research contexts. The present study examined the functioning of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies – Depression (CES‐D) scale, and the nine primary symptoms from the depression module of the Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia – Children (K‐SADS) using IRT methods. A large sample of adolescents (n = 1709) completed the BDI, CES‐D scale, and K‐SADS. IRT calibration analyses demonstrated that the BDI and CES‐D scale performed well in similar ranges of depressive severity (approximately −1 to +3 standard deviations [SDs]), although the BDI provided more information at higher severity levels and the CES‐D scale at lower severity levels. The K‐SADS depression items, which are dichotomous and focused on clinical disorder, provided the least information that was restricted to the narrowest range (approximately +1 to +3 SDs). This work finds consistency between past rationale for the use of the BDI in clinical samples while using the CES‐D scale in epidemiological studies. The results for the K‐SADS suggest that interview measures may benefit from increasing the number of items and/or response options to collect more psychometric information. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dose dependence and temporal evolution of the T1 relaxation time and MRI contrast in the rat brain after subcutaneous injection of manganese chloride
Authors: Shazeeb Mohammed Salman , Sotak Christopher H.
Published: January 2012

Divalent manganese ion (Mn2+) is a widely used T1 contrast agent in manganese‐enhanced MRI studies to visualize functional neural tracts and anatomy in the brain in vivo. In animal studies, Mn2+ is administered at a dose that will maximize the contrast, while minimizing its toxic effects. In rodents, systemic administration of Mn2+ via intravenous injection has been shown to create unique MRI contrast in the brain at a maximum dose of 175 mg kg−1. However, intravenous administration of Mn2+ results in faster bioelimination of excess Mn2+ from the plasma due to a steep concentration gradient between plasma and bile. By contrast, following subcutaneous injection (LD50 value = 320 mg kg−1), Mn2+ is released slowly into the bloodstream, thus avoiding immediate hepatic elimination resulting in prolonged accumulation of Mn2+ in the brain via the choroid plexus than that obtained via intravenous administration. The goal of this study was to investigate MRI dose response of Mn2+ in rat brain following subcutaneous administration of Mn2+. Dose dependence and temporal dynamics of Mn2+ after subcutaneous injection can prove useful for longitudinal in vivo studies that require brain enhancement to persist for a long period of time to visualize neuroarchitecture like in neurodegenerative disease studies. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multislice fractional ventilation imaging in large animals with hyperpolarized gas MRI
Authors: Emami Kiarash , Xu Yinan , Hamedani Hooman , Xin Yi , Profka Harrilla , Rajaei Jennia , Kadlecek Stephen , Ishii Masaru , Rizi Rahim R.
Published: January 2012

The noninvasive assessment of regional lung ventilation is of critical importance in the quantification of the severity of disease and evaluation of response to therapy in many pulmonary diseases. This work presents, for the first time, the implementation of a hyperpolarized (HP) gas MRI technique to measure whole‐lung regional fractional ventilation (r) in Yorkshire pigs (n = 5) through the use of a gas mixing and delivery device in the supine position. The proposed technique utilizes a series of back‐to‐back HP gas breaths with images acquired during short end‐inspiratory breath‐holds. In order to decouple the radiofrequency pulse decay effect from the ventilatory signal build‐up in the airways, the regional distribution of the flip angle (α) was estimated in the imaged slices by acquiring a series of back‐to‐back images with no interscan time delay during a breath‐hold at the tail end of the ventilation sequence. Analysis was performed to assess the sensitivity of the multislice ventilation model to noise, oxygen and the number of flip angle images. The optimal α value was determined on the basis of the minimization of the error in r estimation: αopt = 5–6º for the set of acquisition parameters in pigs. The mean r values for the group of pigs were 0.27 ± 0.09, 0.35 ± 0.06 and 0.40 ± 0.04 for the ventral, middle and dorsal slices, respectively (excluding conductive airways r > 0.9). A positive gravitational (ventral–dorsal) ventilation gradient effect was present in all animals. The trachea and major conductive airways showed a uniform near‐unity r value, with progressively smaller values corresponding to smaller diameter airways, and ultimately leading to lung parenchyma. The results demonstrate the feasibility of the measurement of the fractional ventilation in large species, and provide a platform to address the technical challenges associated with long breathing time scales through the optimization of acquisition parameters in species with a pulmonary physiology very similar to that of humans. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.