bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Private sector participation and regulatory reform in water supply in the Southern Mediterranean region
Authors: Perard Edouard
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study is to examine the institutional organization of the water sector. The Mediterranean area provides very diverse examples of water sector organization. This paper focuses more particularly on two aspects, the recent introduction of private sector participation and the institutional framework. Five countries have been reviewed in detail: Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt, Morocco and Jordan. For each of these countries, the paper analyzes institutional arrangements for the water sector. It presents the theoretical legal framework but also the practice. It shows that ‘independent’ regulatory agencies have been set up in only a few countries. However, a closer look confirms that these regulatory agencies are rarely independent. The study also reveals that in most of the countries, the management of water supply suffers from political interference and is overly centralized. Experience with corporatization has also been limited. While the corporatization of local operators has been legalized in most countries, few have implemented it. Experience with private sector participation in water supply has been relatively positive and is, therefore, expected to expand in the future.
Copper removal by carbon nanomaterials bearing cyclam-functionalized silica
Authors: Kurczewska Joanna , Schroeder Grzegorz , Narkiewicz Urszula
Published: March 2010

The synthesis of metal (Fe, Co, Ni)-encapsulated carbon nanomaterials coated with cyclam-bonded silica has been described. The organic layer was identified by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The functionalized magnetic nanomaterials were employed to extract the divalent cations: copper, calcium, cobalt, manganese and nickel from aqueous solutions. Their adsorption capacities were studied by the batch procedure. The concentration of cations extracted was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Influence of different parameters viz. pH, amount of the compound studied, contact time, on the cation extraction was investigated. Under optimum conditions copper extraction was significantly more efficient when compared with other coexisting ions.
A preliminary study on the effect of mineralization parameters on determination of metals in Viscum album species
Authors: Blicharska Eliza , Komsta Łukasz , Kocjan Ryszard , Gumieniczek Anna , Robak Artur
Published: March 2010

An increasing interest in determination of various macro- and microelements in medicinal plants has been observed. The majority of studies are carried out using one mineralization method without any optimization. The present study demonstrates that changes in mineralization parameters can significantly affect the recovery of the elements determined. In the study, the dried plant material was mineralized in 12 ways and iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni) and manganese (Mn) levels were determined. The samples were mineralized in the dry or open microwave mode as well as 10 closed microwave modes. The influence of acid amounts, irradiation power and time, addition of hydrogen peroxide and perfluoric acid was examined. All parameters were shown to be critical — good efficiency was observed with larger amounts of acid. The determined content varied significantly in the same sample and were in the ranges (ug g−1): 46–136 (Fe), 1.4–11.8 (Cu), 4.0–11.3 (Ni), 15.4–53.8 (Zn) and 9.5–67.6 (Mn). Increased irradiation resulted in the loss of copper and zinc and better recovery of nickel. The results demonstrate that such determinations should include the mineralization optimization step.
Copper (II) chloride / tetrabutylammonium bromide catalyzed oxidation of 2,6-diisopropylnaphthalene and 4,4′-diisopropylbiphenyl
Authors: Orlińska Beata , Zawadiak Jan
Published: March 2010

The oxidation processes of 2,6-diisopropylnaphthalene and 4,4′-diisopropylbiphenyl with oxygen in the presence of a catalyst, composed of copper(II) chloride and tetrabutylammonium bromide, were investigated. It was found that, in essence, only one isopropyl group undergoes oxidation, and obtained mixtures contained mainly peroxide, alcohol, ketone and only small amounts of hydroperoxide.
Effect of alumina incorporation on restricting grain growth of nanocrystalline tin(IV) oxide
Authors: Al-Angari Y. , Kadi M. , Ismail I. , Gabal Mohamed.
Published: March 2010

In this project, nanocrystalline SnO2 powders were successfully prepared by (a) citrate sol-gel and (b) direct precipitation methods. Powders were characterized using thermal analysis techniques (DTA-TG-DSC), X-ray powder Diffraction (XRD), surface area (BET) and electrical conductivity measurements. XRD patterns showed the presence of the cassiterite structure. SnO2 particles, prepared through sol-gel method exhibit crystallite sizes in the range from 3.1 to 22.3 nm when the gel is heat treated at different temperatures up to 900°C. SnO2 nanocrystallites prepared by the precipitation method are comparatively larger in size. The higher specific surface area was obtained for the powder prepared using sol-gel method and the obtained average grain size (d) is relatively large compared with that of the average crystallite size. The powders show a semiconducting behavior with increasing temperature. The higher conductivity obtained for SnO2 prepared by sol-gel method can be attributed to their smaller average crystallite size. XRD of alumina doped powder exhibits finer particles than pure SnO2. TEM images showed that the particles are spherical in shape and consist of a core of SnO2 surrounded by a coating of alumina. The calculated surface area was found to decrease with temperature increases. Due to the effective role of Al2O3 additive as a grain growth inhibitor for the matrix grains, the observed surface area for the coated materials are predominantly higher than for the uncoated materials.
Structure and spectal properties of cinnamoyl pyrones and their vinylogs
Authors: Tykhanov Dmytro , Serikova Irina , Yaremenko Fedor , Roshal Alexander
Published: March 2010

The 1H-NMR and quantum chemical analysis of the stability of tautomers of cinnamoyl pyrone derivatives and vinylogs has been studied. The relationship between the structure of the most stable tautomer and its spectral properties has been investigated. It has been determined that the tautomer of highest stability (88–100 molar %) has an α-pyrone structure and exhibits a trans-conformation in the cinnamoyl fragment. An intense fluorescence of dyes has been observed in non-polar solvents with cinnamoyl fragments having electron-donating substituents or several double bonds in the polymethine chain. A gradient in solvent polarity resulted in fluorescence quenching which permits the use of the dyes as intensometric fluorometric probes for medium polarity examination.
Ionic liquid mediated recyclable sulphonimide based organocatalysis for aldol reaction
Authors: Srivastava Vivek
Published: March 2010

Sulphonimide based organocatalyst was used to catalyze the aldol reaction in ionic liquid media. On the basis of yield and selectivity the ionic liquid mediated system was found superior in comparison with organic solvents. The added advantages of this ionic liquid mediated organocatalysis are easy recovery of product and the recyclability of the organocatalyst.
Synthesis and characterization of temperature-sensitive and biodegradable hydrogel based on N-isopropylacrylamide
Authors: Yu Yueqin , Li Yanshun , Zhu Chunjing , Liu Lingxiu
Published: March 2010

Based on a biodegradable cross-linker, N-maleyl chitosan (N-MACH), a series of Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAAm) and Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide-co-acrylamide) [P(NIPAAm-co-Am)] hydrogels were prepared, and their lower critical solution temperature (LCST), swelling kinetics, equilibrium swelling ratio in NaCl solution, and enzymatic degradation behavior in simulated gastric fluids (SGF) were discussed. The LCST did not change with different cross-linker contents. By altering the NIPAAm/Am molar ratio of P(NIPAAm-co-Am) hydrogels, the LCST could be increased to 39°C. The LCST of the hydrogel was significantly influenced by the monomer ratio of the NIPAAm/Am but not by the cross-linker content. In the swelling kinetics, all the dry hydrogels exhibited fast swelling behavior, and the swelling ratios were influenced by the cross-linker content and NIPAAm/Am molar ratios. Equilibrium swelling ratio of all the hydrogels decreased with increasing NaCl solution concentration. In enzymatic degradation tests, the weight loss of hydrogels was dependent on the cross-linker contents and the enzyme concentration.
Metallation of tetradentate N2O2 Schiff base with Mn(II), Co(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II): synthesis, characterization and formation constants measurement
Authors: Asadi Mozaffar , Mohammadikish Maryam , Mohammadi Khosro
Published: March 2010

Four Schiff base ligands, salabza-H2 = N,N′-bis(salicylidene)-2-aminobenzylamine, were synthesized by condensation of one mole of 2-aminobenzylamine and two moles of salicylaldehyde and/or two moles of substituted salicylaldehyde (5-OMe, 5-Br, 5-NO2). All the four Schiff bases and their Mn(II), Co(II), Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes are characterized by UV-Vis, FT-IR, 1H NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and elemental analysis. The formation constants and the Gibbs free energies were measured spectrophotometrically for 1:1 complexes in methanol in constant ionic strength (I = 0.1 mol dm−3 NaClO4) and at 25°C. The data refinement was carried out with the SQUAD program. The trend of formation constants of H2L1 with M(II) follows the order: Mn(II) (3.97)
Also, the trend of formation constants of ligand toward a given metal (for example Mn) is as follows: H2L1 (p-OMe) (3.97) > H2L2 (p-H) (3.65) > H2L3 (p-Br) (3.37) > H2L4 (p-NO2) (3.04)
ZnO-beta zeolite mediated simple and efficient method for the one-pot synthesis of quinoxaline derivatives at room temperature
Authors: Katkar Santosh , Mohite Pravinkumar , Gadekar Lakshman , Arbad Balasaheb , Lande Machhindra
Published: March 2010

A rapid and an efficient one-pot method for the synthesis of quinoxalines catalysed by ZnO-beta zeolite at room temperature is described. This environmentally benign method provides several advantages over methods that are currently employed such as a simple work-up, mild reaction conditions, good to excellent yields, and a process to recover and reuse the catalyst for several cycles with consistent activity.
Spectrophotometric determination of aqueous acidity constants of three azo dyes
Authors: Alizadeh Kamal , Rezaei Behrooz , Maddah Bozorgmehr
Published: March 2010

The two successive steps acidity constants of three azo dye derivatives D1–D3, were determined by a spectrophotometric method using 0.10 M KNO3 as supporting electrolyte in water solvent. The electronic spectra of the compounds were recorded in the course of their pH-metric titration with a standard base solution. The protolytic equilibrium constants can be solved very satisfactorily from absorbance data, by combining the data obtained in the spectrometric determinations with graphic methods as the absorbance diagrams. An A-diagram shows the relative absorbance changes at two wavelengths as a function of the pH. For a one-step system, the absorbance at any wavelength must be proportional to the absorbance at any other wavelength, so an A-diagram for all wavelength combinations for such a system must be linear (rank, s=1). However, if a system is governed by two or more equilibria, the A-diagrams corresponding to multi-step titrations will change direction every time a new equilibrium becomes dominant in the system. Analysis of the each uniform sub-region can then be used in evaluating of the corresponding equilibrium. A-diagrams for all wavelength combinations suggest that these systems have the rank two(s=2). The results revealed that the Ka(1) and Ka(2) values of different azo dyes follow the order D3>D2>D1.
Structure and photocatalytic activity of Ti1−X MX O2 (M = Zr, Co and Mo) synthesized by pulverized solid state technique
Authors: Santhosh S. , Swetha S. , Balakrishna Geetha
Published: March 2010

A set of transition metal doped nanosized TiO2 particles with anatase structure were synthesized by the pulverization method and their ability to photocatalytically degrade the dye Alizarin Red S was investigated. Characterization of the Zr-, Co- and Mo-doped photocatalysts was conducted with the aid of XRD, SEM, EDX, TEM, BET and spectral analysis. X-ray diffraction patterns did not reflect the appearance of any peaks due to dopants, however dopants were observed in SEM-EDX analysis. Particle sizes were in the range of 25 nm as per TEM and XRD analysis. Upon doping, a prominent decrease in surface area was observed. The percentage composition of each of the dopants was confirmed by EDX analysis. Doped samples depicted many mid-bands in the Kubelka Munk plots due to d-d transition of dopants. Experiments were conducted to compare the photocatalytic activity under identical UV and solar light exposure. Zr-doped TiO2 at the molecular scale exhibited better photocatalytic activity in degradation of Alizarin, with a lower band-gap energy that can respond to visible light. However, Co- and Mo-doped TiO2 appeared to suppress the photoactivity. A rise in the number of mid-bands causing effective separation or recombination of charge carriers strongly influences the rate of the degradation process.
Properties of ibuprofen ion-selective electrodes based on the ion pair complex of tetraoctylammonium cation
Authors: Lenik Joanna , Wardak Cecylia
Published: March 2010

Ibuprofen membrane electrodes based on different plasticizers: diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP), o-nitrophenyloctyl ether (o-NPOE), dioctyl sebacate (DOS) and tetraoctylammonium 2-(4-isobutylphenyl)propionate were prepared. All electrodes show: a near Nernstian slope of characteristic (58.3–60.9 mV decade−1) in the measurement range (10−4–10−1 mol L−1), limit of detection (5.0×10−5 mol L−1), really long lifetime (12 months), dependence of the electrode potential on pH (5.5–9.0), reproducibility of potential (0.6–1.2 mV) and selectivity coefficients in relation to some organic and inorganic anions. The electrodes were applied for the determination of ibuprofen in tablets by the calibration curve method and the standard addition method.
Fabrication and magnetic properties of hierarchical nickel microwires with nanothorns
Authors: Zhang Junhao , Yang Ling , Cheng Xiaofang , Zhang Jinmeng , Li Fucai
Published: March 2010

Hierarchical nickel microwires with nanothorns were fabricated through a reduction of nickelous salt with hydrazine in diethanolamine. The product was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The growth mechanism of the nickel microwires with nanothorns is proposed, based on the evolution of the structures and morphologies, which could be ascribed to the cooperative effect of the complexant of diethanolamine and inherent magnetic interactions. Magnetic properties of the product were measured at room temperature and compared with other shaped counterparts.
Application of a macromolecular micellar system formed by the P123 triblock copolymer for determination of copper concentrations
Authors: Lemos Leandro , Silva Luis , Silva Maria , Amim Jorge , Coimbra Jane , Minim Luis
Published: March 2010

This work proposes a method for determination Cu(II) concentrations, based on the formation of a copper-1-nitroso-2-naphthol complex, in the presence of micelles; formed by a triblock copolymer, made up of two blocks of polyethylene oxide (PEO), and one block of polypropylene oxide (PPO). The insoluble copper complexes, are concentrated inside the hydrophobic micelle core; formed by the PPO block. For a solution containing 0.200 mg L−1 Cu(II), the proposed method had a relative standard deviation of 2.0% (n = 3); an absolute error from 0.11 to 0.39 mg L−1; and a linear calibration range, from 0.200 to 0.800 mg L−1. Detection and quantification limits, were 43.1 mg L−1 and 144 mg L−1, respectively. We show that there is excellent agreement, between the results obtained using our novel method; and those obtained using flame atomic absorption spectrometry: In the determination of Cu(II) concentrations, in Brazilian sugar-cane spirits. The proposed method, is the first to apply macromolecular micelle systems, to the determination of copper concentrations; and improves upon the results obtained using molecular surfactants. This method is environmentally friendly (since it does not use any organic solvents for extraction), and the triblock copolymer is biodegradable and non-toxic.
Recent Declines in Australian Male Suicide are Real, not Artefactual
Authors: Page Andrew , Taylor Richard , Martin Graham
Published: March 2010

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to clarify the extent to which the recorded marked decline in young male suicide (20–34 years) in Australia since 1998 is attributable to misclassification of cause of death information.

Methods: Secular trends in young male suicide rates were investigated for the period 1976–2005. Suicide rates in the period after the peak of the epidemic in this age group (1998) were re-calculated based on published estimates of under-enumeration of suicide data, and misclassification of likely suicide cases to other unintentional and undetermined external causes. Two misclassification scenarios were used to revise young male suicide rates from 1998: previously reported estimates of 9% under-enumeration due to misclassification of unintentional causes of death, and 17% under-enumeration due to misclassification of open cases in addition to unintentional causes of death. All-cause mortality was also examined.

Results: Recorded male suicide in the 20–34 year age group increased over the study period, peaking in 1998 at 39 per 100 000, before declining sharply in the period 1999–2005 by 44% to 22 per 100 000 in 2005. Following adjustment for misallocation under the first scenario, suicide rates declined 38% to 24 per 100 000, and under the second scenario declined 33% to 26 per 100 000. Revised suicide rates were not materially different from recorded suicide rates based on 95% confidence intervals over this period. All-cause mortality declined from 1999 due to reductions in suicide and other causes.

Conclusion: The recent marked decline in young male suicide in Australia is real. The effects of misallocation of likely suicide cases to other causes did not substantially affect population trends in suicide rates in the period after 1998. There is still a need to account in detail for why young male suicide has declined so substantially during the period after 1998.
Does Socioeconomic Inequality Explain Ethnic Differences in Nicotine Dependence? Evidence from a New Zealand Birth Cohort
Authors: Marie Dannette , Fergusson David M. , Boden Joseph M.
Published: March 2010

Objective: The present study examined the role of socioeconomic status and cultural identity in the association between ethnicity and nicotine dependence, in a birth cohort of >1000 methods young people studied to age 30.

Methods: Data were gathered on ethnicity, cultural identification, nicotine dependence, and socioeconomic factors, as part of a longitudinal study of a New Zealand birth cohort (the Christchurch Health and Development Study).

Results: Those reporting Māori identity had rates of nicotine dependence that were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than rates for non-Māori. Control for socioeconomic factors reduced the associations between ethnic identity and nicotine dependence to statistical non-significance. In addition, there was no evidence of a statistically significant association between Māori cultural identity and nicotine dependence, nor was there evidence of gender differences in the association between ethnic identity and nicotine dependence, after controlling for socioeconomic factors.

Conclusions: The higher rates of nicotine dependence observed among Māori appear to be attributable to differences in socioeconomic status. Efforts to improve the socioeconomic standing of Māori should therefore help to reduce rates of nicotine dependence in this population.
The Marketing of Pharmaceutical Agents: Friend or Foe?
Authors: Jurd Stephen
Published: March 2010

Objective: The aim of this paper is to provide a viewpoint regarding the marketing of pharmaceutical agents to psychiatrists and examine the results of a brief survey of the nature of booths, and gifts they offered, during 2009 RANZCP Congress in Adelaide.

Conclusions: The pharmaceutical industry is highly organized and scientifically sophisticated. Efforts to influence our prescribing are likely to have a proven scientific base and to be responsive to evidence.
Surgical Management of Vitreofoveal Traction Syndrome: Optical Coherence Tomographic Evaluation and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Davis R. Prince , Smiddy William E. , Flynn Harry W. , Puliafito Carmen A.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To characterize vitreofoveal traction syndrome and to correlate clinical observations, optical coherence tomography features, and surgical results.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

A retrospective, consecutive, interventional case series of 36 patients. Clinical and optical coherence tomography features taken from patient charts were compared preoperatively and postoperatively and correlated with visual outcomes.

RESULTS:

Preoperatively, visual acuity ranged from 20/40 to 20/400 and improved more than 2 lines in 50% of eyes. A macular hole developed in 2 eyes. The optical coherence tomography appearance of traction resolved in all eyes; cystic change improved markedly or resolved in 86% of eyes. Preoperative optical coherence tomography features did not correlate with visual acuity. Patients with symptoms for less than a 6-month duration (
P
= .048) were more likely to obtain a visual acuity of 20/40 or better postoperatively. Presence or resolution of macular cystic changes and subretinal fluid did not correlate with visual acuity or change (
P
> .05).

CONCLUSION:

Patients with vitreofoveal traction syndrome usually achieve favorable visual optical coherence tomography outcomes after pars plana vitrectomy.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:150–156.]
Assessing the Reliability of Automated OCT Retinal Thickness Measurements in Patients With Choroidal Neovascularization Due to Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Taban Mehran , Williams Dawn , Smith Scott D. , Kaiser Peter K.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To compare automated versus manual retinal measurement using Stratus optical coherence tomography (OCT) (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Dublin, CA) in patients with choroidal neovascularization (CNV) due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Patients with subfoveal CNV due to AMD underwent Stratus OCT imaging. Each scan was evaluated for automated: foveal center point thickness, central subfield thickness, signal strength, and manual: central retinal thickness, central retinal/lesion thickness, CNV thickness, pigment epithelial detachment thickness, and number of correct retinal boundaries (CRBs).

RESULTS:

A total of 209 OCT visits (49 patients) were assessed. On fast macular thickness map, 52% of scans had less than 4 (of possible 6) CRBs placed by the automated OCT algorithm. There was a mean difference of 34 µm between automated foveal center point thickness and manual central retinal thickness (
P
< .00005). Only 40% and 27% of automated foveal center point thickness and central subfield, respectively, lay within ± 25 µm of manual central retinal thickness. As the number of CRBs or signal strength increased, the difference between manual and automated measurements decreased.

CONCLUSION:

Manual retinal thickness measurements differ significantly from those calculated by the current automated Stratus OCT software in exudative AMD.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:166–174.]
Ranibizumab for Exudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Eyes Previously Treated With Alternative Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitors
Authors: Ehlers Justis P. , Spirn Marc J. , Shah Chirag P. , Fenton Gregory L. , Baker Paul S. , Regillo Carl D. , Ho Allen C.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate ranibizumab for exudative age-related macular degeneration previously treated with pegaptanib, bevacizumab, or both.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

This was a retrospective, interventional case series of patients with exudative age-related macular degeneration who were treated with ranibizumab after being initially treated with pegaptanib, bevacizumab, or both. The primary outcome was change in visual acuity following the switch to ranibizumab.

RESULTS:

One hundred two eyes of 92 patients were identified. Following the switch to ranibizumab, there was an average gain of 0.7 lines in visual acuity. Ninety-four eyes (92%) lost 3 or fewer lines, 29 eyes (28%) gained more than 3 lines, and 3 eyes (3%) lost more than 6 lines after switching to ranibizumab. Lesion type and time between previous vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor and ranibizumab did not affect the response.

CONCLUSION:

Ranibizumab maintained visual acuity in the majority of patients and appears to be an effective treatment regardless of previous anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:182–189.]
The Relation Between Bevacizumab Injection and the Formation of Subretinal Fibrosis in Diabetic Patients With Panretinal Photocoagulation
Authors: Batman Cosar , Ozdamar Yasemin
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To report the development of subretinal fibrosis after the injection of intravitreal bevacizumab in eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) refractory to panretinal laser photocoagulation (PRP).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Twenty-one eyes of 15 patients treated with PRP and intravitreal injection of bevacizumab were included in this study. The clinical outcomes of 21 eyes having subretinal fibrosis after intravitreal bevacizumab injection were reviewed.

RESULTS:

There were 9 men and 6 women with a mean age of 51.3 ± 8.9 years. All eyes had PDR refractory to panretinal photocoagulation and were treated with at least one intravitreal injection of 1.25 mg of bevacizumab (mean number of injections: 1.8). Before injection, there was subretinal fibrosis in 5 eyes and vitreoretinal traction in 19 eyes. After a mean follow-up period of 7 months, the development or progression of subretinal fibrosis was detected in all eyes.

CONCLUSION:

Intravitreal injection of bevacizumab may cause formation or progression of subretinal fibrosis in patients with PDR refractory to PRP.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:190–195.]
Role of Ultrasound Biomicroscopy in Management of Eyes With Stage 5 Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Azad Rajvardhan , Mannan Rashim , Chandra Parijat
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To assess the role of ultrasound biomicroscopy in the surgical management of eyes with stage 5 retinopathy of prematurity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Ultrasound biomicroscopy was performed preoperatively in 18 eyes with stage 5 retinopathy of prematurity to view the access to the anterior surgical space.

RESULTS:

Of the 15 (83.3%) eyes with anterior open funnel on B-scan ultrasonography, only 8 (53.3%) eyes had open access to the anterior surgical space and were scheduled for lensectomy.

CONCLUSION:

Ultrasound biomicroscopy is an effective tool for assessing anterior surgical space and helps surgical decision making in vitreoretinal surgery in eyes with stage 5 retinopathy of prematurity.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:196–200.]
Ultrasound Energy in Phacoemulsification: A Comparative Analysis of Phaco-Chop and Stop-and-Chop Techniques According to the Degree of Nuclear Density
Authors: Park Jung Hyun , Lee Sang Mok , Kwon Ji-Won , Kim Mee Kum , Hyon Joon Young , Wee Won Ryang , Lee Jin Hak , Han Young Keun
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the amount of ultrasound energy used, corneal endothelial cell loss, and central corneal thickness using the phaco-chop and stop-and-chop techniques for cataracts with different degrees of nuclear density.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

One hundred two eyes of 51 patients with bilateral senile cataract were included. Each eye was randomly assigned to have either phaco-chop or stop-and-chop nucleofractis during phacoemulsification. The groups were divided into two subgroups according to the nuclear density. The effective phacoemulsification time, endothelial cell density, and central corneal thickness were analyzed.

RESULTS:

The mean effective phacoemulsification time was similar between the groups in moderately dense nuclei (2.17 ± 1.33 vs 1.33 ± 1.05 seconds;
P
= .41). However, the phaco-chop technique required less effective phacoemulsification time than the stop-and-chop technique in dense nuclei (3.86 ± 4.18 vs 6.70 ± 5.43 seconds;
P
= .01). The endothelial cell loss and the central corneal thickness did not vary significantly between the groups.

CONCLUSION:

The phaco-chop technique requires lower ultrasound energy for nuclear management than the stop-and-chop technique in dense cataracts and the resulting endothelial loss was similar in both techniques.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:236–241.]
Intraoperative Use of Three-Dimensional Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Ide Takeshi , Wang Jianhua , Tao Aizhu , Leng Theodore , Kymionis George D. , O'Brien Terrence P. , Yoo Sonia H.
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To develop a prototype three-dimensional anterior segment spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) device and demonstrate the feasibility of its use in the operating room.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Single-institution interventional case series including six consecutive patients undergoing Descemet's stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK). The prototype anterior segment SD-OCT was used intraoperatively to search for the presence of interface fluid between the host cornea and the DSAEK graft.

RESULTS:

Anterior segment SD-OCT was successfully used intraoperatively during DSAEK. After the initial placement of the graft, no fluid was clinically apparent; however, interface fluid was identified by anterior segment SD-OCT in two of the six cases. After additional aspiration, all patients were fluid-free on follow-up anterior segment SD-OCT scanning.

CONCLUSION:

Intraoperative anterior segment SD-OCT was used successfully to find interface fluid that was clinically undetectable under the microscope. As such, all patients were able to leave the operating room with a fully attached graft.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:250–254.]
The Effect of Femtosecond Laser Lamellar Dissection at Various Depths on Corneal Endothelium in the Recipient Bed of the Porcine Eye
Authors: Choi Suk-Kyue , Kim Jin-Hyoung , Lee Doh
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the effect of femtosecond laser lamellar dissection on corneal endothelium ultrastructure and viability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Newly enucleated porcine eyes (N = 32) were used. The eyes were divided into four groups and a 7.5-mm diameter corneal lamellar dissection with the same size side cut at various depths was performed using a 60-kHz femtosecond laser with raster and spiral lamellar pattern. The endothelium was examined using scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy with Alizarin red staining.

RESULTS:

All four groups showed similar corneal endothelial cell morphology and viability at the center of the endothelium regardless of the lamellar cut pattern (
P
> .05). In groups 2 and 3, linear dotted endothelial cell damage or folding correlating with the side cut was observed.

CONCLUSION:

Using femtosecond lasers for stromal dissection and side cutting was safe for the central endothelium and caused only minimal damage to the peripheral endothelium, regardless of the laser emission pattern.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:255–260.]
A Rabbit Model of Conjunctival Injection Induction After Strabismus Surgery Enhanced by Topical Application of Irritant Chemicals
Authors: Kim Moon Jung , Hwang Jeong-Min
Published: March 2010

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To establish a rabbit model of conjunctival injection after strabismus surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A prospective, masked-observer, controlled study was performed. Twenty eyes of 20 rabbits underwent strabismus surgery. Fifteen eyes were treated with 90% ethanol for 5 minutes followed by dispase for 10 minutes and 5 eyes were treated with balanced salt solution as a control group. Injection severity was assessed by means of a grade (0 to 3) at 5 minutes, 1, 24, and 48 hours, and 1 week after surgery.

RESULTS:

The application of 90% ethanol for 5 minutes followed by dispase for 10 minutes reliably caused conjunctival injection in all of the rabbits and the injection scores were significantly higher than those of the control group at 24 (
P
= .008) and 48 (
P
= .001) hours and 1 week (
P
= .022) after surgery.

CONCLUSION:

The combined application of 90% ethanol and dispase in rabbit eyes was found to successfully create a conjunctival injection rabbit model after strabismus surgery.

[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2010;41:261–265.]
Morphological aspects related to feeding of two marine skates Narcine brasiliensis Olfers and Rhinobatos horkelli Müller & Henle - DOI: 10.4025/actascibiolsci.v20i0.4468
Authors: Goitein Roberto , Torres Fernando S. , Signorini Carlos Eduardo
Published: March 2010

Narcine brasiliensis Olfers e Rhinobatos horkelli vivem em águas costeiras próximas ao fundo, sendo encontradas nos mesmos locais. Essas espécies foram estudadas quanto à alimentação e algumas medidas corpóreas como altura e largura relativas do corpo e largura relativa da boca. Os resultados revelaram diferenças significativas na composição de seus conteúdos estomacais. N. brasiliensis alimenta-se principalmente de crustáceos e poliquetos fossoriais, enquanto R. horkelli alimenta-se mais freqüentemente de crustáceos de vida livre. As proporções corporais também apresentaram resultados significativamente diferentes entre as espécies. N. brasiliensis tem largura e altura relativa do corpo maiores, sugerindo ser uma espécie menos veloz. Além desse fato, essa espécie utiliza-se de descargas elétricas para detectar o alimento e boca protrátil para facilitar sua captura. R. horkelli, por sua vez, apresenta características morfológicas que aparentemente a capacitam a atingir maiores velocidades de natação, permitindo que capture organismos também mais rápidos que os explorados por N. brasiliensis.
THE ENVIRONMENT AND NORTHERN ANIMAL AGRICULTURE
Authors: MacHARDY F. V.
Published: March 2010

Despite early evidence that the growing of cereal crops and the raising of domestic animals was feasible in the far northern Peace and upper Mackenzie region, very little agriculture is presently practiced there. The region contains about 20 million acres of C.L.I. soil class 4 or better, primarily of the Grey Wooded soiltype. Should the region be opened for agriculture, a forage-beef-dung system would appear to offer many advantages. Pressures on the grain-fed beef industry could have a significant effect in shifting the cattle industry northward into new areas with limited potential for cereal production, but good prospects for forages.
ACCUMULATION OF LIPID IN RIB CUTS FROM BULL AND HEIFER CARCASSES OF TWO BREEDS
Authors: JONES S. D. M. , PRICE M. A. , BERG R. T.
Published: March 2010

A trial is reported comparing the accumulation of lipid in rib cuts from 12 bull and 12 heifer carcasses from two breed types: Hereford (HE) and Dairy Synthetic (DY). Serial slaughter was carried out from weaning (163 ± 15.1 (SD) days) to approximately 16 mo of age. The left side of each carcass was broken in two quarters, and then eight wholesale cuts. Fat samples (subcutaneous, intermuscular, body cavity) and a muscle sample were taken from the rib cut and analyzed for their lipid and energy contents. The rate of accumulation of lipid was estimated from the growth coefficient, b, in the allometric equation (Y = aXb) using total separable fat as the independent variable. Growth coefficients were homogeneous both between breeds and sexes indicating that neither sex nor breed influenced the relative accumulation of lipid. A significant sex difference (P < 0.01) was found when the lipid content of the fat depots and the rib muscle were adjusted to a constant side separable fat. No breed differences (P > 0.05) were found in the lipid content of the fat depots. A significant difference between sexes was also found in the energy content of the fat depots, but no differences were found between breeds, when the data were adjusted to the mean of the total side fat.
WEIGHTED AVERAGES OF SIRE PROGENY TESTS FOR GROWTH TRAITS IN RECORD OF PERFORMANCE BEEF HERDS
Authors: SCHAEFFER L. R. , ERIKSSON J. A. , WILTON J. W.
Published: March 2010

Growth records of 281 744 calves born from 1971 to 1978 were used to calculate annual phenotypic and genetic trends for weaning weight and yearling weight. Genetic trends were computed as the weighted average of sire-transmitting abilities obtained from the Record of Performance National Beef Sire Monitoring Program. There were no significant differences between the genetic trends of all calves vs. calves which made a yearling weight for either weaning weight or yearling weight. Annual trends were positive for Angus, Hereford, and Shorthorn breeds, and were negative for Charolais, Limousin, Maine-Anjou and Simmental breeds. The interpretation of annual trends was complicated by the declining enrollment of herds on the test program which could have artificially altered the averages.
RELATIONSHIP OF SEX ODOR TO PANEL ACCEPTABILITY AND CERTAIN OTHER ORGANOLEPTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF PORK CHOPS
Authors: CLIPLEF R.L. , STRAIN J.H.
Published: March 2010

One hundred Yorkshire swine (26 gilts, 24 barrows and 50 boars) were utilized in this study. The 50 boars were grouped into 25 faster gaining and 25 slower gaining as measured by age upon achieving a market weight of 90 kg. Barrows were castrated at 14 days of age and all pigs were weaned at 35 days, allotted to pens by sex and fed a 16% protein diet ad libitum until they reached the 90 kg slaughter weight. Carcasses were measured for length, backfat and loin eye area following a 24-h chill, and samples of backfat, belly fat and loin eye were removed for chemical, organoleptic and shear tests. Boars were longer, carried less backfat and had larger loin eyes than barrows or gilts. Backfat and belly fat from boars had higher odor scores (P < 0.01) and higher iodine numbers (P < 0.01) than the fat of barrows and gilts. Pork chops from barrows scored higher organoleptically than pork chops from gilts and boars but this difference was significant (P < 0.05) only between barrows and the younger age group boars. Odor scores of belly fat were significantly correlated (P < 0.01) with taste panel flavor scores.
INTRAMUSCULAR COLLAGEN CONTENT AND SOLUBILITY: THEIR RELATIONSHIP TO TENDERNESS AND ALTERATION BY POSTMORTEM AGING
Authors: JEREMIAH L. E. , MARTIN A. H.
Published: March 2010

A total of 108 longissimus dorsi (LD) and 36 semitendinosus (ST) muscles from predominantly 1/2- or 3/4-blood Charolais, Simmental or Chianina cattle ranging in chronological age from 11 to 15 mo and with carcass weights of approximately 270 kg were utilized to evaluate the effects of postmortem aging upon tenderness and intramuscular collagen content and solubility. The relationship of tenderness to intramuscular collagen content and solubility after various intervals of postmortem aging, and interrelationships of intramuscular collagen contents and solubilities among muscles were also examined. In general, the results of this study failed to provide direct evidence that up to 480 h (20 days) of postmortem aging significantly altered intramuscular collagen content or solubility in the LD or ST muscles. The results also failed to provide evidence of a significant relationship between intramuscular collagen content or solubility and shear force values in beef carcasses with chronological ages, carcass weights, and breeding similar to those evaluated. Furthermore, no significant relationships between intramuscular collagen contents and solubilities of different muscles were detected.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF FEED INTAKE PREDICTION EQUATIONS FOR LACTATING DAIRY COWS
Authors: YUNGBLUT D. H. , STONE J. B. , MACLEOD G. K. , GRIEVE D. G. , BURNSIDE E. B.
Published: March 2010

Data collected during two long-term experiments were analyzed by stepwise multiple regression to develop feed intake prediction equations. In one experiment (Sire comparison trial (SCT)) cows were individually fed complete rations ad libitum while in the other (lifetime silage trial (LST)) roughage was fed ad libitum and grain according to production. Each experiment covered three lactations. Milk production and feed intake were recorded daily, milk composition biweekly (LST) or monthly (SCT) and weight and feed composition monthly. The data included 100 SCT and 79 LST records representing 47 and 34 different cows, respectively. Only data from lactations of at least 280 days were used. The SCT cows were older (30 vs. 24.6 mo at first calving. Dry matter (DM) intake of the SCT cows increased linearly between lactations 1 and 2 but changed very little between lactations 2 and 3. Dry matter intake by the LST cows increased linearly over the three lactations. Each data set was used to formulate two prediction equations. Regression equations using 11 independent variables gave R2 values of 0.84 for both data sets. Equations, using five selected independent variables (lactation number, milk production, milk fat percent, body weight, and acid detergent fibre (ADF) content of ration) gave R2 values of 0.78 (SCT) and 0.77 (LST). The SCT equation described a negative relationship between ADF content and intake, while the LST equation showed a positive relationship.
EVALUATION DE L’ENSILAGE D’HERBE ENTREPOSE DANS DES SILOS-MEULES ET TRAITE AVEC UN MELANGE FORMALDEHYDE-ACIDE SULFURIQUE (SYLADE)
Authors: FLIPOT PAUL , PELLETIER GHISLAIN , ST-PIERRE J.-C. , COMEAU J. E.
Published: March 2010

Chemical analysis, in vivo digestibility and sheep performance were used to determine the nutritive value of unpacked or packed, Sylade-treated or untreated grass silages. Materials were ensiled in stack silos. The pH was lower in packed grass silage than in unpacked silage. Sylade treatment of the packed silage reduced protein degradation and increased digestibility of dry matter, gross energy, acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, nitrogen and energy retained as a percent of a total energy intake. However, the energy intake and nitrogen balance were not affected by treatments. Growth and feed efficiency were not improved in Sylade-treated silage. Animal performances were similar under all treatments. Feed intake was slightly increased for the lambs fed unpacked silage.
THE EFFECT OF HEAT TREATMENT AND ENZYME HYDROLYSIS OF RAPESEED MEAL ON THE PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKENS
Authors: PAIK I. K. , ROBBLEE A. R. , CLANDININ D. R.
Published: March 2010

An experiment was conducted on the effect of heat treatment and conditions of enzyme hydrolysis of Tower and Midas rapeseed (Brassica napus) meal (RSM) on the concentration of nitriles and goitrin in the meals and their biological effect when fed to broiler chickens. Autolysis of raw meals resulted in a high level of nitriles in Midas RSM and a low level of nitriles in Tower RSM. In heated meals, goitrin was the principal hydrolysis product being high in Midas and low in Tower RSM. An increase in incubation time and freeze-drying after hydrolysis reduced the total nitriles. Non-hydroxy epithionitriles were most susceptible to treatments imposed and a hydroxy nitrile, 1-cyano-2-hydroxy-3-butene, was least affected by freeze-drying. Feeding 20% raw or heated Tower RSM hydrolyzed in different ways had little effect, compared to the soybean control, on rate of growth, feed efficiency, mortality or incidence of perosis. Thyroid gland weights in the treated groups were two to three times greater than the controls. Feeding 20% raw or heated Midas meal decreased rate of growth and increased feed required per unit of gain. The growth depression was greater with raw Midas RSM than with the heated meal. Thyroid gland weights in the groups fed Midas RSM, either raw or heated, were larger than for Tower RSM. Thyroid gland weights were 4–20 times as large as the controls. Raw or heated Midas RSM prepared by pre-hydrolysis and freeze-drying (PHFD) caused a greater decrease in rate of gain than other Midas meals in which 2% raw or heated ground Midas rapeseed was included in the rations fed.
EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LEVELS OF TOWER RAPESEED MEAL IN CORN-SOYBEAN MEAL BASED DIETS ON GROWING-FINISHING PIG PERFORMANCE
Authors: NARENDRAN R. , BOWMAN G. H. , LEESON S. , PFEIFFER W.
Published: March 2010

Ninety-six Yrokshire barrows and gilts were fed six, isonitrogenous, isoenergetic corn-soybean meal based diets containing 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25%, respectively, of Tower rapeseed meal (RSM) during the growing-finishing period. There were no differences (P < 0.05) in average daily gain, feed intake, feed to gain ratio, backfat thickness and dressing percentage due to treatment.
THE INFLUENCE OF BREED ON THE EFFICIENCY OF GROWTH AND MUSCLE DEPOSITION IN BULLS AND HEIFERS
Authors: JONES S.D.M. , PRICE M.A. , BERG R.T.
Published: March 2010

Two breeds (Hereford (HE), and Dairy Synthetic (DY)), and two sexes (bulls and heifers) were compared for various measures of efficiency in beef production. DY animals had greater (P < 0.001) birthweights, and greater weaning weights (P < 0.001) than HE animals. At weaning, 16 animals of each breed-sex combination were grouped four to a pen and fed a high-concentrate cereal diet ad libitum to one of two slaughter weights (485 kg, 575 kg). Average daily gain and liveweight gained per 100 MJ dietary energy (DE) was greater (P < 0.05) for DY bulls than HE bulls. Average daily gain, but not liveweight gained per 100 MJ DE was greater (P < 0.05) for DY heifers than HE heifers. There were no differences (P < 0.05) in muscle gain per unit of liveweight among breed-sex combinations. At a constant liveweight DY bulls produced significantly (P < 0.05) more muscle than HE bulls, and DY heifers, significantly more (P < 0.05) than HE heifers. Muscle gain per 100 MJ DE was highest for DY bulls and lowest for DY heifers. For a constant amount of feed energy (23 241 MJ DE) DY bulls produced 20.1 kg (16%) more muscle than HE heifers. The overall results thus indicate that breed and sex cause important differences in the amount of carcass muscle produced for a constant energy intake.