bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth of aspen and white spruce on naturally saline sites in northern Alberta: Implications for development of boreal forest vegetation on reclaimed saline soils
Authors: Lilles E.B. , Purdy B.G. , Macdonald S.E. , Chang S.X.
Published: January 2012

Lilles, E. B., Purdy, B. G., Macdonald, S. E. and Chang, S. X. 2012. Growth of aspen and white spruce on naturally saline sites in northern Alberta: Implications for development of boreal forest vegetation on reclaimed saline soils. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 213–227. We examined height and basal area growth over time for trembling aspen and white spruce in plots along a salinity gradient at six naturally saline sites in northern Alberta, as a benchmark for forest productivity on reclaimed saline sites. We measured root distributions and analyzed foliage for ions, nutrients and carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios. Both species grew on soil conditions previously considered unsuitable for forest vegetation [pH>8.5; electrical conductivity>10 dS m−1, sodium adsorption ratio>13 at depth (50–100 cm)] yet there was little evidence of nutritional toxicities or deficiencies. Aspen basal area growth decreased 50% as salinity increased, but aspen was commercially productive (site index=22) on soils with electrical conductivity of 7.8 dS m−1at 50–100 cm depth. Growth of white spruce seemed to be unaffected by salinity level differences, but 78% of white spruce site indexes were less than 13 and would be considered non-productive. Both species showed growth declines over time, compared with non-saline reference growth curves, and rooted primarily in the forest floor and top 20 cm of soil. This suggests that rooting limitations may constrain longer-term productivity of forests established on sites with salinity at depth.
Trembling aspen seedling establishment, growth and response to fertilization on contrasting soils used in oil sands reclamation
Authors: Pinno Bradley D. , Landhäusser Simon M. , MacKenzie M. Derek , Quideau Sylvie A. , Chow Pak S.
Published: January 2012

Pinno, B. D., Landhäusser, S. M., MacKenzie, M. D., Quideau, S. A. and Chow, P. S. 2012. Trembling aspen seedling establishment, growth and response to fertilization on contrasting soils used in oil sands reclamation. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 143–151. Trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) is an important tree species for land reclamation. This study determined trembling aspen germination, establishment, initial growth and response to fertilizer on contrasting oil sands reclamation soils. In a greenhouse, eight soils varying in total nitrogen and available phosphorus were treated with no fertilizer (control), phosphorus and potassium (PK), nitrogen (N) and all three (NPK). Soil had the greatest impact on aspen growth when no fertilizer was applied with the best growth occurring on organic-mineral material soils where growth was positively correlated with extractable and foliar potassium but not to nitrogen or phosphorus. With PK and N fertilizer, growth increases were positively correlated with foliar phosphorus concentrations of the corresponding controls. NPK fertilizer caused greater growth, bud set and root:leaf mass ratio compared with PK or N fertilizer. Soil type had little impact on germination and establishment, indicating natural aspen seedlings can potentially regenerate on all of these soils. In oil sands mining reclamation where these soils are used as surface materials, organic-mineral mixes had the greatest potential without fertilizer. With fertilizer, NPK provided maximum growth and developmental benefits.
Influence of root growth of two pioneering plant species on soil development during the initial stage of ecosystem genesis in the Lusatian post mining landscape
Authors: Boldt Katja , Uwe Schneider Bernd , Fritsch Simone , Hüttl Reinhard F.
Published: January 2012

Boldt, K., Schneider, B. U., Fritsch, S. and Hüttl, R. F. 2012. Influence of root growth of two pioneering plant species on soil development during the initial stage of ecosystem genesis in the Lusatian post mining landscape. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 67–76. To characterize the role of root growth of Lotus corniculatus L. (bird's-foot trefoil) and Calamagrostis epigeios L. Roth (chee reed grass) in soil development during the initial stage of ecosystem genesis, the root systems of these plant species growing in soils from quaternary calcareous sediments were studied. The spatial distribution pattern of root systems varied considerably. Both plant species contributed to the accumulation of organic carbon in the bulk soil, although the highest concentrations were from the legume L. corniculatus. Total nitrogen concentration in the bulk soil was not affected, but increased in the rhizosphere soil of both plant species. There were clear indications that both plant species contributed to homogenizing phosphorus distribution, resulting in phosphorus depletion of those soil compartments where root proliferation was highest. Pronounced differences were detected between plant species, which led to the conclusion that the homogenizing effect caused by one species on a plot level may be overridden by the heterogeneity of patches composed of different plant species at the ecosystem level. All considered components suggest that the development of root systems of herbaceous pioneer plant species provides significant contributions to land reclamation in a natural way.
Soil and vegetation recovery after a well blowout and salt water release in northeastern British Columbia
Authors: Leskiw Leonard A. , Sedor Ron B. , Welsh Catherine M. , Zeleke Takele B.
Published: January 2012

Leskiw, L. A., Sedor, R. B., Welsh, C. M. and Zeleke, T. B. 2012. Soil and vegetation recovery after a well blowout and salt water release in northeastern British Columbia. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 179–190. The impact of brine release on soil and vegetation due to a gas well blowout in December 1999 near Fort Nelson, British Columbia was evaluated over a 10 year period. The objectives were to study spatial and temporal distribution of soil salinity and vegetation and determine whether reclamation would occur through a natural recovery process. Soil salinity and vegetation diversity indices were measured on six study sites and one control. Average electrical conductivity declined with time from approximately 3.0 dS m−1 and has remained below 2.0 dS m−1 since 2002. Cycling of ions between leaf litter and plant tissue resulted in high variability in topsoil electrical conductivity. Sodium adsorption ratio in the leaf litter and A horizons was low (<7), but remained high in B and C horizons (>14) after 2004. From 2002 to 2010 moss cover increased 40%, whereas shrubs decreased 30%. The most impacted plot showed higher diversity than the least impacted plots and the control (Shannon diversity index = 1.49, 1.36, 1.11 for most impacted, least impacted and control, respectively). Soil and vegetation indicated salt-affected plots were recovering naturally. Results from this study could potentially provide guidelines for future remediation and reclamation practices.
Proposed classification for human modified soils in Canada: Anthroposolic order
Authors: Anne Naeth M. , Archibald Heather A. , Nemirsky Candace L. , Leskiw Leonard A. , Anthony Brierley J. , Bock Michael D. , VandenBygaart A. J. , Chanasyk David S.
Published: January 2012

Naeth, M. A., Archibald, H. A., Nemirsky, C. L., Leskiw, L. A., Brierley, J. A., Bock, M. D., VandenBygaart, A. J. and Chanasyk, D. S. 2012. Proposed classification for human modified soils in Canada: Anthroposolic order. Can. J. Soil Sci. 92: 7–18. With increasing anthropogenic activity, the areal extent of disturbed soils is becoming larger and disturbances more intense. Regulatory frameworks must incorporate reclamation criteria for these disturbed soils, requiring consistent descriptions and interpretations. Many human altered soils cannot be classified using the Canadian System of Soil Classification (CSSC), thus an Anthroposolic Order is proposed. Anthroposols are azonal soils, highly modified or constructed by human activity, with one or more natural horizons removed, removed and replaced, added to, or significantly modified. Defining features are severe disruption of soil forming factors and introduction of potentially new pedogenic trajectories. Disturbed layers are anthropic in origin and contain materials significantly modified physically and/or chemically by human activities. Three great groups are defined by presence of anthropogenic artefacts and organic carbon content. Six subgroups are based on a cover soil layer with higher organic carbon content than the profile below it, on depth of disturbance, on drainage characteristics and water regime at the site. Some new phases and modifiers, in addition to traditional ones used in the CSSC, are based on chemical and physical properties and origins of anthropogenic artefacts. The proposed classification has been successfully applied to reclaimed profiles and is ready for widespread field testing.
Etiology of Acute, Non-Malaria, Febrile Illnesses in Jayapura, Northeastern Papua, Indonesia
Authors: Punjabi Narain H. , Taylor Walter R. J. , Murphy Gerald S. , Purwaningsih Sri , Picarima Helena , Sisson John , Olson James G. , Baso Samuel , Wangsasaputra Ferry , Lesmana Murad , Oyofo Buhari A. , Simanjuntak Cyrus H. , Subekti Decy , Corwin Andrew L. , Richie Thomas L.
Published: January 2012

We conducted a prospective, inpatient fever study in malaria-endemic Papua, Indonesia to determine non-malaria fever etiologies. Investigations included malaria blood films, blood culture, paired serologic samples analysis for dengue, Japanese encephalitis, leptospirosis, scrub typhus, murine typhus, and spotted fever group rickettsia. During 1997–2000, 226 patients (127 males and 99 females) 1–80 years of age (median age = 25 years) were enrolled. Positive blood cultures (n = 34, 15%) were obtained for Salmonella Typhi (n = 13), Escherichia coli (n = 8), Streptococcus pneumoniae (n = 6), Staphylococcus aureus (n = 5), Streptococcus pyogenes (n = 1), and Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 1). Twenty (8.8%) patients were positive for leptospirosis by polymerase chain reaction. Eighty (35.4%) of 226 patients had ≥ 1 positive serology, diagnostic for 15 rickettsial and 9 dengue cases. Acid-fast bacilli–positive sputum was obtained from three patients. Most common confirmed (81 of 226, 35.8%)/suspected diagnoses were typhoid fever (n = 41), pneumonia (n = 29), leptospirosis (n = 28), urinary tract infections (n = 20), rickettsioses (n = 19), dengue (n = 17), and meningitis/encephalitis (n = 15). There were 17 deaths, 7 (46.7%) were caused by meningitis/encephalitis. Multiple positive serologic results and few confirmed diagnoses indicate the need for improved diagnostics.
Towards Universal Coverage: Examining Costs of Illness, Payment, and Coping Strategies to Different Population Groups in Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Ezeoke Ogochukwu P. , Onwujekwe Obinna E. , Uzochukwu Benjamin S.
Published: January 2012

This study investigated the costs of illness to households in different socio-economic status (SES) groups and geographic places of abode in addition to the mechanisms that the different population groups used to pay for health services and cope with payments. A cross-sectional descriptive study of 3,200 households selected from six communities in two states was conducted using interviewer-administered pre-tested questionnaires. An SES index was used to divide the households into quartiles, and χ2 analysis was used to determine the relationship of SES and geographic abode of households with cost of illness, payment mechanism, and coping strategies. The results show that malaria was the illness that most people had. The average cost of transportation for malaria was 86 Naira ($0.6 US), and the total cost of treatment was 2,819.9 Naira ($20 US); of this cost, drug costs alone contributed more than 90%. Out of pocket was the main method of payment. Treatment costs differed by geographic location and socio-economic status. Policy measures should establish targeted mechanisms to protect the general population, especially rural dwellers and poorer households, against the financial burden of direct healthcare payments.
Trends in Clinical Diagnoses of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever among American Indians, 2001–2008
Authors: Folkema Arianne M. , Holman Robert C. , McQuiston Jennifer H. , Cheek James E.
Published: January 2012

American Indians are at greater risk for Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) than the general U.S. population. The epidemiology of RMSF among American Indians was examined by using Indian Health Service inpatient and outpatient records with an RMSF International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification diagnosis. For 2001–2008, 958 American Indian patients with clinical diagnoses of RMSF were reported. The average annual RMSF incidence was 94.6 per 1,000,000 persons, with a significant increasing incidence trend from 24.2 in 2001 to 139.4 in 2008 (P = 0.006). Most (89%) RMSF hospital visits occurred in the Southern Plains and Southwest regions, where the average annual incidence rates were 277.2 and 49.4, respectively. Only the Southwest region had a significant increasing incidence trend (P = 0.005), likely linked to the emergence of brown dog ticks as an RMSF vector in eastern Arizona. It is important to continue monitoring RMSF infection to inform public health interventions that target RMSF reduction in high-risk populations.
Chikungunya and Dengue Fever among Hospitalized Febrile Patients in Northern Tanzania
Authors: Hertz Julian T. , Munishi O. Michael , Ooi Eng Eong , Howe Shiqin , Lim Wen Yan , Chow Angelia , Morrissey Anne B. , Bartlett John A. , Onyango Jecinta J. , Maro Venance P. , Kinabo Grace D. , Saganda Wilbrod , Gubler Duane J. , Crump John A.
Published: January 2012

Consecutive febrile admissions were enrolled at two hospitals in Moshi, Tanzania. Confirmed acute Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), Dengue virus (DENV), and flavivirus infection were defined as a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) result. Presumptive acute DENV infection was defined as a positive anti-DENV immunoglobulin M (IgM) enzyme-linked immunsorbent assay (ELISA) result, and prior flavivirus exposure was defined as a positive anti-DENV IgG ELISA result. Among 870 participants, PCR testing was performed on 700 (80.5%). Of these, 55 (7.9%) had confirmed acute CHIKV infection, whereas no participants had confirmed acute DENV or flavivirus infection. Anti-DENV IgM serologic testing was performed for 747 (85.9%) participants, and of these 71 (9.5%) had presumptive acute DENV infection. Anti-DENV IgG serologic testing was performed for 751 (86.3%) participants, and of these 80 (10.7%) had prior flavivirus exposure. CHIKV infection was more common among infants and children than adults and adolescents (odds ratio [OR] 1.9, P = 0.026) and among HIV-infected patients with severe immunosuppression (OR 10.5, P = 0.007). CHIKV infection is an important but unrecognized cause of febrile illness in northern Tanzania. DENV or other closely related flaviviruses are likely also circulating.
The Increase of Imported Malaria Acquired in Haiti among US Travelers in 2010
Authors: Agarwal Aarti , McMorrow Meredith , Arguin Paul M.
Published: January 2012

From 2004 to 2009, the number of malaria cases reported in Haiti increased nearly fivefold. The effect of the 2010 earthquake and its aftermath on malaria transmission in Haiti is not known. Imported malaria cases in the United States acquired in Haiti tripled from 2009 to 2010, likely reflecting both the increased number of travelers arriving from Haiti and the increased risk of acquiring malaria infection in Haiti. The demographics of travelers and the proportion of severe cases are similar to those statistics reported in previous years. Non-adherence to malaria chemoprophylaxis remains a nearly universal modifiable risk factor among these cases.
Rolling Malaria Indicator Surveys (rMIS): A Potential District-Level Malaria Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Tool for Program Managers
Authors: Roca-Feltrer Arantxa , Lalloo David G. , Phiri Kamija , Terlouw Dianne J.
Published: January 2012

Novel malaria monitoring and evaluation (M&E) tools are urgently needed to complement the current “gold standard” Malaria Indicator Surveys (MIS). Rapid up scaling of malaria control efforts is resulting in substantial reductions in malaria burden across sub-Saharan Africa. As transmission goes down, timely, accurate, sub-national, and district level burden estimates are needed to guide increasingly targeted control efforts in remaining hotspot areas. To test a novel district level M&E tool, we have conducted a continuous (“rolling”) MIS (rMIS) since May 2010 covering 50 villages in Chikhwawa district in southern Malawi, essentially adapting an existing cross-sectional evaluation tool into a continuous monitoring tool. Here, we report on our experience after completing the first full year of monthly data collection focusing on the methods, operational aspects, and estimated costs of rMIS in a programmatic setting. The potential applicability of this promising M&E approach for district-level program managers and control efforts is discussed.
Infectious Diseases Seen in a Primary Care Clinic in Leogane, Haiti
Authors: Neuberger Ami , Tenenboim Shiri , Golos Miri , Pex Racheli , Krakowsky Yonah , Urman Marnina , Vernet Spencer , Schwartz Eli
Published: January 2012

All diseases diagnosed in a primary healthcare clinic situated in Leogane, Haiti, were recorded prospectively during a 7-month period. Among the patients in this cohort, 2,821 of 6,631 (42.6%) presented with an infectious disease. The three most common syndromes among the patients presenting with infections were respiratory tract infections (33.5%), suspected sexually transmitted diseases—mostly among females with recurrent disease (18.1%)—and skin and soft tissue infections, including multiple cases of tinea capitis (12.8%). Of the 255 patients presenting with undifferentiated fever, 76 (29.8%) were diagnosed with falciparum malaria. Other vector-borne diseases included 13 cases of filariasis and 6 cases of dengue fever. Human immunodeficiency virus infection was diagnosed in 19 patients. Four cases of mumps were detected among unimmunized children. A large proportion of these infections are preventable. Concerted efforts should be made to create large-scale preventive medicine programs for various infectious diseases.
Characteristics and Spectrum of Disease Among Ill Returned Travelers from Pre- and Post-Earthquake Haiti: The GeoSentinel Experience
Authors: Esposito Douglas H. , Han Pauline V. , Kozarsky Phyllis E. , Walker Patricia F. , Gkrania-Klotsas Effrossyni , Barnett Elizabeth D. , Libman Michael , McCarthy Anne E. , Field Vanessa , Connor Bradley A. , Schwartz Eli , MacDonald Susan , Sotir Mark J. , _ _
Published: January 2012

To describe patient characteristics and disease spectrum among foreign visitors to Haiti before and after the 2010 earthquake, we used GeoSentinel Global Surveillance Network data and compared 1 year post-earthquake versus 3 years pre-earthquake. Post-earthquake travelers were younger, predominantly from the United States, more frequently international assistance workers, and more often medically counseled before their trip than pre-earthquake travelers. Work-related stress and upper respiratory tract infections were more frequent post-earthquake; acute diarrhea, dengue, and Plasmodium falciparum malaria were important contributors of morbidity both pre- and post-earthquake. These data highlight the importance of providing destination- and disaster-specific pre-travel counseling and post-travel evaluation and medical management to persons traveling to or returning from a disaster location, and evaluations should include attention to the psychological wellbeing of these travelers. For travel to Haiti, focus should be on mosquito-borne illnesses (dengue and P. falciparum malaria) and travelers' diarrhea.
The Response of Academic Medical Centers to the 2010 Haiti Earthquake: The Mount Sinai School of Medicine Experience
Authors: Ripp Jonathan A. , Bork Jacqueline , Koncicki Holly , Asgary Ramin
Published: January 2012

On January 12, 2010, Haiti was struck by a 7.0 earthquake which left the country in a state of devastation. In the aftermath, there was an enormous relief effort in which academic medical centers (AMC) played an important role. We offer a retrospective on the AMC response through the Mount Sinai School of Medicine (MSSM) experience. Over the course of the year that followed the Earthquake, MSSM conducted five service trips in conjunction with two well-established groups which have provided service to the Haitian people for over 15 years. MSSM volunteer personnel included nurses, resident and attending physicians, and specialty fellows who provided expertise in critical care, emergency medicine, wound care, infectious diseases and chronic disease management of adults and children. Challenges faced included stressful and potentially hazardous working conditions, provision of care with limited resources and cultural and language barriers. The success of the MSSM response was due largely to the strength of its human resources and the relationship forged with effective relief organizations. These service missions fulfilled the institution's commitment to social responsibility and provided a valuable training opportunity in advocacy. For other AMCs seeking to respond in future emergencies, we suggest early identification of a partner with field experience, recruitment of administrative and faculty support across the institution, significant pre-departure orientation and utilization of volunteers to fundraise and advocate. Through this process, AMCs can play an important role in disaster response.
The “First” Case of Cholera in Haiti: Lessons for Global Health
Authors: Ivers Louise C. , Walton David A.
Published: January 2012

Cholera is an acute watery diarrheal disease caused by infection with Vibrio cholerae. The disease has a high fatality rate when untreated and outbreaks of cholera have been increasing globally in the past decade, most recently in Haiti. We present the case of a 28-year-old Haitian male with a history of severe untreated mental health disorder that developed acute fatal watery diarrhea in mid-October 2010 in central Haiti after drinking from the local river. We believe he is the first or among the first cases of cholera in Haiti during the current epidemic. By reviewing his case, we extracted lessons for global health on the importance of mental health for overall health, the globalization of diseases in small communities, and the importance of a comprehensive approach to the health of communities when planning services in resource-poor settings.
Virological Surveillance of Dengue in Saint Martin and Saint Barthélemy, French West Indies, Using Blood Samples on Filter Paper
Authors: Matheus Séverine , Chappert Jean-Loup , Cassadou Sylvie , Berger Franck , Labeau Bhetty , Bremand Laetitia , Winicki Alain , Huc-Anais Patricia , Quenel Philippe , Dussart Philippe
Published: January 2012

To strengthen active dengue surveillance in Saint Martin and Saint Barthélemy, two French Caribbean islands, we evaluated the epidemiological usefulness of collecting blood samples from NS1-positive dengue patients on filter paper to identify the dengue serotypes circulating in these regions during a 27-month period. This approach allowed dengue serotypes to be identified by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction in 90.1% of the total set of 666 samples analyzed and, in 95.5% of the samples collected during the acute phase of the disease. This prospective virological surveillance using blood samples absorbed onto filter paper, which were stored at 4°C and shipped at ambient temperature to a specialized laboratory for analysis, allowed us to avoid the logistic and financial costs associated with shipping frozen venous blood samples. This surveillance system offers a low-cost alternative for reinforcing dengue prevention in areas where specialized laboratories do not exist, notably by facilitating the early detection of potentially new dengue serotypes.
Evaluation of the 2009 WHO Dengue Case Classification in an Indonesian Pediatric Cohort
Authors: van de Weg Cornelia A. M. , van Gorp Eric C. M. , Supriatna Mohamad , Soemantri Augustinus , Osterhaus Albert D. M. E. , Martina Byron E. E.
Published: January 2012

The classification of dengue virus-infected patients continues to be a challenge to researchers and clinicians in the field. The accuracy of the 1997 World Health Organization (WHO) dengue case definition has been debated for a decade, because the definition was very stringent, for instance, several researchers showed that apparently severe cases were misclassified as not severe. Therefore the WHO issued revised guidelines in 2009. Here, we retrospectively compared the performance of the WHO case definition of 2009 with the WHO case definition of 1997 in a detailed documented pediatric cohort from Indonesia. Intensive treatment intervention was used as an indicator of severity of disease. In line with our expectations, the 2009 WHO case classification proved to be significantly more specific, albeit less sensitive than the WHO case classification of 1997. We conclude that the revised classification is promising both from research and clinical perspectives, but validation of the classification criteria still needs to be addressed.
Multiplex Assay for Species Identification and Monitoring of Insecticide Resistance in Anopheles punctulatus Group Populations of Papua New Guinea
Authors: Henry-Halldin Cara N. , Nadesakumaran Kogulan , Keven John Bosco , Zimmerman Allison M. , Siba Peter , Mueller Ivo , Hetzel Manuel W. , Kazura James W. , Thomsen Edward , Reimer Lisa J. , Zimmerman Peter A.
Published: January 2012

Anopheles punctulatus sibling species (An. punctulatus s.s., Anopheles koliensis, and Anopheles farauti species complex [eight cryptic species]) are principal vectors of malaria and filariasis in the Southwest Pacific. Given significant effort to reduce malaria and filariasis transmission through insecticide-treated net distribution in the region, effective strategies to monitor evolution of insecticide resistance among An. punctulatus sibling species is essential. Mutations in the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) gene have been associated with knock-down resistance (kdr) to pyrethroids and DDT in malarious regions. By examining VGSC sequence polymorphism we developed a multiplex assay to differentiate wild-type versus kdr alleles and query intron-based polymorphisms that enable simultaneous species identification. A survey including mosquitoes from seven Papua New Guinea Provinces detected no kdr alleles in any An. punctulatus species. Absence of VGSC sequence introgression between species and evidence of geographic separation within species suggests that kdr must be monitored in each An. punctulatus species independently.
Observation and modeling of the evolution of Texas power plant plumes
Authors: Zhou W. , Cohan D. S. , Pinder R. W. , Neuman J. A. , Holloway J. S. , Peischl J. , Ryerson T. B. , Nowak J. B. , Flocke F. , Zheng W. G.
Published: January 2012

Abstract. During the second Texas Air Quality Study 2006 (TexAQS II), a full range of pollutants was measured by aircraft in eastern Texas during successive transects of power plant plumes (PPPs). A regional photochemical model is applied to simulate the physical and chemical evolution of the plumes. The observations reveal that SO2 and NOy were rapidly removed from PPPs on a cloudy day but not on the cloud-free days, indicating efficient aqueous processing of these compounds in clouds. The model reasonably represents observed NOx oxidation and PAN formation in the plumes, but fails to capture the rapid loss of SO2 (0.37 h−1) and NOy (0.24 h−1) in some plumes on the cloudy day. Adjustments to the cloud liquid water content (QC) and the default metal concentrations in the cloud module could explain some of the SO2 loss. However, NOy in the model was insensitive to QC. These findings highlight cloud processing as a major challenge to atmospheric models. Model-based estimates of ozone production efficiency (OPE) in PPPs are 20–50 % lower than observation-based estimates for the cloudy day.
New records of Geastrum from Japanese sand dunes
Authors: Kasuya Taiga , Hosaka Kentaro , Sakamoto Haruo , Uchida Akitomo , Hoshino Tamotsu , Kakishima Makoto
Published: January 2012

Basidiomata of three earthstars —Geastrum campestre, G. corollinum, G. hungaricum— were collected from sand dunes of the Japanese coasts. Those arenicolous fungi are newly recorded for Japanese mycobiota. Descriptions, comments and illustrations of basidiomata of
the three fungi are provided.
New lichenicolous fungi records for Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine
Authors: Nadyeina Olga , Gökhan Halici Mehmet
Published: January 2012

Gemmaspora lecanorae and Rosellinula haplospora are newly reported for Uzbekistan (Asia), Rosellinula frustulosae for Kyrgyzstan (Asia), and Muellerella ventosicola and Weddellomyces heterochrous for Ukraine (Europe). The different ascospore sizes
reported for W. heterochrous are also briefly discussed.
Discrimination of Gigaspora species by PCR specific primers and phylogenetic analysis
Authors: Silva Gladstone Alves da , Lumini Erica , Bianciotto Valeria , Bonfante Paola , Maia Leonor Costa
Published: January 2012

Species of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are usually identified by the morphological characteristics of their spores. However, considering the difficulties in diagnosing their taxa, the construction of species-specific primers has been proposed as an identification alternative.
In this paper the problem of distinguishing different Gigaspora species with slight morphological differences was solved using species-specific primers and SSU and LSU rDNA sequence analyses of 18 AM fungal isolates comprising seven species. Neighbor joining, maximum parsimony, and
maximum likelihood analyses were performed to evaluate the phylogenetic affiliation of the isolates, and a new reverse PCR primer (ALB1) specific for Gigaspora albida was designed and tested with 11 Gigaspora isolates (four species). The results confirmed misidentification of
'G. albida' FL 927 and 'G. margarita' BR 444 and supported referring FL 927 to G. rosea and BR 444 to G. albida.
Microcyclospora rumicis, a new species on Rumex crispus from Iran
Authors: Arzanlou Mahdi , Bakhshi Mounes
Published: January 2012

A new species of Microcyclospora, associated with leaf spots on Rumex crispus, is fully described and illustrated.
Mycena guldeniana – a new alpine species from Norway
Authors: Aronsen Arne , Perry Brian A.
Published: January 2012

Mycena guldeniana (section Polyadelphia) is proposed for an agaric found in alpine areas of south Norway that is here described, illustrated and compared with other species of the section. The new species grows on fallen, decaying leaves under Salix spp. or occasionally
on small twigs in the same habitat and is characterized by its small size, greyish brown pileus, 4-spored basidia, smooth cheilocystidia, prominent, wide terminal cells of the pileipellis hyphae, and clamp connections. Phylogenetic analyses of nucLSU support the taxon within Mycena
and genetically distinct from the morphologically similar M. terena.
Neolecta vitellina, first record from Romania, with notes on habitat and phenology
Authors: Claudiu Chinan Vasilică , Hewitt David
Published: January 2012

Neolecta vitellina, one of the rarely collected ascomycete species in Europe, is reported from Romania for the first time. The species was found on the ground, under Norway spruce (Picea abies) in 2004, from the Nature Reserve “Tinovul Mare” Poiana Stampei
(Eastern Carpathians, Romania). Subsequent field observations have confirmed the presence of Neolecta vitellina in the same location, in the period 2005–10. A description and photographs of the specimens are presented.
Exserohilum neoregeliae sp. nov., a new pathogen of Neoregelia carolinae
Authors: Sakoda Takuya , Tsukiboshi Takao
Published: January 2012

Exserohilum neoregeliae is described from Neoregelia carolinae leaves imported from the Netherlands at plant quarantine inspection in Japan. The new fungal species is characterized by long rostrate conidia with an obconic basal end cell with a distinct hilum. ITS + 5.8SrDNA
sequence analyses revealed that E. neoregeliae forms a monophyletic group with E. minor.
Contribution to the taxonomy of Bovista in Mexico
Authors: Bautista-Hernández Silvia , Herrera Teófilo , Aguirre-Acosta Elvira , Esqueda Martín
Published: January 2012

Specimens of the genus Bovista from eight Mexican herbaria (CESUES, ENCB, FCME, HEMIM, IBUG, IZTA, MEXU, XAL) were examined and studied, and fifteen taxa were identified: Bovista aestivalis, B. brunnea, B. dermoxantha, B. dominicensis, B. fusca,
B. grandipora, B. graveolens, B. heterocapilla, B. leucoderma, B. oblongispora var. longispora, B. oblongispora var. oblongispora, B. plumbea, B. pusilla, B. sempervirentium, and B. tomentosa.
The new information obtained indicates a wider distribution for B. aestivalis, B. dermoxantha, B. fusca, B. graveolens, B. leucoderma, B. oblongispora var. longispora, B. pusilla, and B. tomentosa. New records for
the Mexican mycobiota are: B. dominicensis, B. grandipora, B. heterocapilla, B. oblongispora var. oblongispora, and B. sempervirentium.
Septobasidium saurauiae sp. nov. (Septobasidiaceae) and S. pseudopedicellatum new to China
Authors: Chen Suzhen , Guo Lin
Published: January 2012

A new species, Septobasidium saurauiae on Saurauia tristyla associated with Chionaspis sp., and a new Chinese record, Septobasidium pseudopedicellatum on Schefflera octophylla and Psychotria serpens, are described. They were collected from Hainan
Province.
A contribution to the study of smut fungi of Israel
Authors: Savchenko Kyrylo G. , Heluta Vasyl P. , Wasser Solomon P. , Nevo Eviatar
Published: January 2012

Four species of smut fungi, Antherospora vaillantii, Microbotryum holostei, Urocystis magica, and U. muscaridis, are reported for the first time in Israel. Urocystis magica was found in the Judean desert on a new host plant, Allium rothii, and M. holostei
is new for Asia.
Two new species of Exserticlava and Spiropes on decaying wood from Guangdong, China
Authors: Ren Shou-Cai , Ma Jian , Zhang Xiu-Guo
Published: January 2012

Two new anamorphic fungi, Exserticlava manglietiae on decaying branches of Manglietia chingii and Spiropes terminaliae on decaying branches of Terminalia mantaly, are described and illustrated. The specimens were collected from subtropical rainforests in
Guangdong Province, China. Morphological differences between these two fungi and similar species are summarized.
A preliminary ITS phylogeny of Melanoleuca (Agaricales), with special reference to European taxa
Authors: Vizzini Alfredo , Para Roberto , Fontenla Roberto , Ghignone Stefano , Ercole Enrico
Published: January 2012

Ninety-one Melanoleuca collections were chosen to test the agreement of current and traditional infrageneric tripartite classifications of Melanoleuca (subgenera Acystis without cystidia, Urticocystis with urticiform cystidia, and Melanoleuca with
macrocystidia) with molecular phylogenetic data (ITS sequences analysis) and to evaluate the systematic significance of relevant morphological characters. Melanoleuca is found to be monophyletic, and only two emended subgenera, Urticocystis and Melanoleuca, are supported.
Subg. Urticocystis comprises all taxa with urticoid cystidia plus the macrocystidiate M. cognata complex. The artificial subg. Acystis is shown to be polyphyletic and no longer tenable. The entire genus comprises at least 10 clades with 13 subclades. Melanoleuca
sublanipes sp. nov. and new combinations M. exscissa f. iris, M. exscissa f. sarcophylla, M. exscissa f. diverticulata, and M. paedida f. electropoda are introduced.
Geastrum species from the Amazon Forest, Brazil
Authors: Gomes Leite Anileide , de Assis Hannah Kathren , da Silva Bianca Denise Barbosa , Sotão Helen Maria Pontes , Baseia Iuri Goulart
Published: January 2012

Six Geastrum species are reported from the Amazon forest: G. entomophilum, G. fimbriatum, G. javanicum, G. lageniforme, G. lilloi, and G. saccatum. Geastrum javanicum and G. lilloi represent first records from Brazil. Descriptions
and illustrations of the species and SEM images of microstructures are given.
Hymenochaete in China. 2. A new species and three new records from Yunnan Province
Authors: He Shuang-Hui , Li Hai-Jiao
Published: January 2012

A new species and three new Chinese records of Hymenochaete are reported: H. yunnanensis sp. nov., H. fulva, H. spathulata, and H. sphaerospora. They were all collected from Caiyanghe Nature Reserve, Yunnan Province, southwestern China. Hymenochaete
yunnanensis (in sect. Hymenochaete) is characterized by setal hyphae and heavily encrusted hyphae and hymenial cells. Complete descriptions with illustrations are provided for the four species.
Homolaphlyctis polyrhiza gen. et sp. nov., a species in the Rhizophydiales (Chytridiomycetes) with multiple rhizoidal axes
Authors: Longcore Joyce E. , Letcher Peter M. , James Timothy Y.
Published: January 2012

An undescribed cellulosic chytrid with multiple rhizoidal axes, JEL142, has grouped in molecular hypotheses with Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, the chytrid pathogen of amphibians, and thus is of interest for genetic and physiological comparisons. To describe this member of the
Rhizophydiales, we examined its zoospore ultrastructure and developmental morphology. Based on a reanalysis of rDNA data plus ultrastructural and morphological characters, we name this fungus Homolaphlyctis polyrhiza gen. et sp. nov.
New combinations in Lactifluus. 1. L. subgenera Edules, Lactariopsis, and Russulopsis
Authors: Verbeken A. , Nuytinck J. , Buyck B.
Published: January 2012

In this first of a series of three papers, new combinations in the genus Lactifluus are proposed. This paper treats the subgenera Edules, Lactariopsis, and Russulopsis (all proposed here as new combinations in Lactifluus). In Lactifluus subg.
Edules, eight combinations at species level are proposed. In Lactifluus subg. Lactariopsis, the following three new combinations are proposed at sectional level: Lactifluus sect. Lactariopsis with seven newly combined species, L. sect. Chamaeleontini
with eight newly combined species, and L. sect. Albati with four newly combined species plus two species previously combined in Lactifluus. Finally, in L. subg. Russulopsis, eight new combinations at species level are proposed.
New records of smut fungi. 4. Microbotryum coronariae comb. nov.
Authors: Denchev Cvetomir M. , Denchev Teodor T.
Published: January 2012

For Ustilago coronariae on Lychnis flos-cuculi, a new combination in Microbotryum, M. coronariae, is proposed. It is reported as new to Bulgaria.
Lentinus giganteus revisited: new collections from Sri Lanka and Thailand
Authors: Karunarathna Samantha C. , Yang Zhu L. , Raspé Olivier , Ko Ko Thida W. , Vellinga Else C. , Zhao Rui-Lin , Bahkali A.H. , Chukeatirote Ekachai , Degreef Jerome , Callac Philippe , Hyde Kevin D.
Published: January 2012

A new collection of Lentinus giganteus from Sri Lanka, where it was originally described, is used to epitypify the species after comparison with the type protologue and drawings held in Peradeniya, Sri Lanka; a full description and illustrations are provided. Additional collections
were made at three sites in northern Thailand. Phylogenetic ITS-1-5.8S-ITS2 rDNA sequence analyses using maximum likelihood, maximum parsimony and Bayesian inference all support the transfer of L. giganteus to Pleurotus. Although the collections from Thailand differ slightly
morphologically and phylogenetically from P. giganteus sensu stricto, these differences do not yet merit specific status. Instead, P. giganteus is maintained as one widely variable species represented by relatively large fruiting bodies. Saprobic on buried well-rotted wood in
forests, P. giganteus is widely consumed in Sri Lanka and might be profitably cultivated in Thailand.
The Influence of Metal Carbides on the Oxidation Processes of 1-Octene by Molecular Oxygen and tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide
Authors: Makota Oksana , Bulgakova Lidiya
Published: January 2012

The influence of metal carbides, TiC, VC, ZrC, Mo2C, TaC, and WC, on the liquid-phase oxidation processes of 1-octene by molecular oxygen and tert-butyl hydroperoxide was investigated. It was established that vanadium carbide is the most active in the oxidation process of 1-octene by molecular oxygen as well as in the tert-butyl hydroperoxide unproductive decomposition process in the hydroperoxide oxidation reaction. It was shown that there is a correlation among the activities of metal carbides in these processes.
Molecular Methods to Measure Intestinal Bacteria: A Review
Authors: Agriculture G Douglas Inglis , Thomas Matthew C , Thomas Dallas K , Kalmokoff Martin L , Brooks Stephen P J , Selinger L Brent
Published: January 2012

The intestine is an exceptionally rich ecosystem encompassing a complex interaction among microorganisms, influenced by host factors, ingested food, and liquid. Characterizing the intestinal microbiota is currently an active area of research. Various molecular-based methods are available to characterize the intestinal microbiota, but all methods possess relative strengths, as well as salient weaknesses. It is important that researchers are cognizant of the limitations of these methods, and that they take the appropriate steps to mitigate weaknesses. Here, we discuss methodologies used to monitor intestinal bacteria including: (i) traditional clone libraries; (ii) direct sequencing using next-generation parallel sequencing technology; (iii) denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis and temperature gradient gel electrophoresis; (iv) terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis; (v) fluorescent in situ hybridization; and (vi) quantitative PCR. In addition, we also discuss experimental design, sample collection and storage, DNA extraction, gene targets, PCR bias, and methods to reduce PCR bias.
Bacteria, Colonic Fermentation, and Gastrointestinal Health
Authors: Macfarlane George T , Macfarlane Sandra
Published: January 2012

The colonic microbiota plays an important role in human digestive physiology and makes a significant contribution to homeostasis in the large bowel. The microbiome probably comprises thousands of different bacterial species. The principal metabolic activities of colonic microorganisms are associated with carbohydrate and protein digestion. Nutrients of dietary and host origin support the growth of intestinal organisms. Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), predominantly acetate, propionate, and butyrate, are the principal metabolites generated during the catabolism of carbohydrates and proteins. In contrast, protein digestion yields a greater diversity of end products, including SCFAs, amines, phenols, indoles, thiols, CO2, H2, and H2S, many of which have toxic properties. The majority of SCFAs are absorbed from the gut and metabolized in various body tissues, making a relatively small but significant contribution to the body's daily energy requirements. Carbohydrate fermentation is, for the most part, a beneficial process in the large gut, because the growth of saccharolytic bacteria stimulates their requirements for toxic products associated with putrefaction, for incorporation into cellular proteins, thereby protecting the host. However, as digestive materials move along the gut, carbohydrates become depleted, which may be linked to the increased prevalence of colonic disease in the distal bowel.
Probiotic and Prebiotic Applications for Vaginal Health
Authors: Reid Gregor
Published: January 2012

Infections of the urogenital tract in women are extremely common, and there is no evidence of a reduction in incidence. Treatment and preventive strategies have been relatively unchanged for 50 years. The concept of using probiotic lactobacilli or prebiotics that stimulate the growth of protective organisms emerged in the mid-1980s and has led to several strains being tested successfully in women. With the advent of genomic profiling of the healthy vaginal microbiota, an improved understanding of metabolic systems within lactobacilli, and the ability to deliver products in food and supplement forms, the future should see new ways for women to restore and maintain their vaginal health, without the side effects of pharmaceutical agents. Indeed, studies indicate that probiotics can be taken in conjunction with the antibiotics and antifungal agents used to eradicate infections. In the future, probiotics and prebiotics will represent an important adjunct to pharmaceutical and other approaches used to care for feminine health.
Predictors of Response to Targeted Therapy in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Eisengart Laurie J. , MacVicar Gary R. , Yang Ximing J.
Published: January 2012

Context.—The prognosis for patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma is poor, with an average 5-year survival of approximately 10%. Use of traditional cytokine therapy, specifically high-dose interleukin 2, is limited by significant toxicity. Better understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of renal cell carcinoma has led to the development of targeted therapies to inhibit specific cellular pathways leading to tumorigenesis. These drugs provide improved survival with a more favorable toxicity profile. There is ongoing investigation of markers that predict response of an individual patient to different targeted therapies.

Objective.—To explain the molecular basis for vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor (antiangiogenic) and mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor therapies for renal cell carcinoma, summarize the clinical trials demonstrating the effectiveness of these drugs, and describe the biomarkers shown to correlate with outcome in patients treated with targeted therapy.

Data Sources.—All included sources are from peer-reviewed journals in PubMed (US National Library of Medicine).

Conclusion.—Emerging evidence shows promise that biomarkers will be useful for predicting an individual patient's response to targeted therapy, leading to a more personalized approach to treating renal cell carcinoma.
Battle in the Amazon: Arapaima versus Piranha
Authors: Meyers M. A. , Lin Y. S. , Olevsky E. A. , Chen P.‐Y.
Published: January 2012

The scales of theArapaimas, a large freshwater fish (up to 200 kg), are a superb example of a natural material that has evolved to provide protection against predators. TheArapaimaslives primarily in Amazon basin lakes that become infested with piranhas as the dry season advances and is covered with scales having up to 10 cm length. They have a collagen interior with a highly mineralized external layer. The collagen fibers form a cross‐lamellar arrangement which produces a laminate composite. The internal collagenous layer provides the flexibility to the scales, which can undergo significant elastic deformation prior to failure, providing considerable toughness. The mineralized exterior provides the required protection against predation. The flexibility of the biomineral is enabled by two factors: (i) a corrugated configuration in which the tensile strains are minimized; (ii) a graded composition. We propose herein that the structure of the scales, a composite consisting of a mineralized external layer with surface corrugations and an internal flexible collagenous foundation, can serve as inspiration for the design of flexible composites having a hard ceramic surface. The piranha (Serrasalminae) is one of the principal predators in seasonal lakes, in which fish get trapped. Its teeth form triangular arrays creating a guillotine action that is highly effective in slicing through muscle. The bite force is calculated for a piranha with a mass of 1 kg from estimated maximum force values applied by three muscle groups connecting the jaw to the mandible: it is ≈20 N. Mechanical tests on the scales and teeth demonstrate that the cutting and puncturing ability of the piranha teeth cannot penetrate theArapaimasscales.