bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consequences of the Sudden Removal of Nearly All Mussels and Cockles from the Dutch Wadden Sea
Authors: Beukema J. J. , Cadée G. C.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Three successive years of recruitment failure, intensive fishery, and high rates of natural mortality eliminated all intertidal mussel beds and nearly all cockle beds from the Dutch Wadden Sea in the course of 1990. In late 1990 and early 1991, zoobenthic biomass and particularly bivalve stocks were unprecedentedly low. The following unusual events were noted:

Relatively high diatom and chlorophyll concentrations in the autumn of 1990 and an exceptionally early and dense spring bloom of diatoms in March 1991;

Exceptionally early onset of rapid growth in the bivalve Macoma balthica in March 1991;

Above‐average weights of the soft parts of bivalves in the 1990/91 winter;

Elevated mortality rates in bivalves that could serve as alternative prey for birds specialised on big bivalves (oystercatchers and eiders);

Signs of food shortage in such birds: high mortality rates and emigration to other feeding areas;

A rapid recovery of the benthos started in the summer of 1991, accelerated by an exceptionally high recruitment in some of the affected species.

It is concluded that the Wadden Sea ecosystem responded in an elastic way to the removal of two of its key species. The events are not seen as merely coincidental but are regarded as a chain of causes and effects.
Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Oxidation Events Occurring Below the Sediment‐Water Interface
Authors: Forster Stefan
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Irrigation and bioturbation lead to transport of dissolved oxygen into anoxic sediments. The depthdistribution of local oxygen input and the total time of oxygen presence was measured at randomly sampled locations within anoxic sediments, originating from the North Sea.

In the laboratory, continuous redox potential records, displaying a transient increase and decrease when in contact with oxygen for a limited time, were used to record oxidation events'. Oxygen microelectrodes were used to confm the presence of oxygen. Measurements were performed for 180 d at 230 locations in the top 6 cm of sediment cores containing the natural macrofauna community.

4783 oxidation events m‐2· d‐1 were recorded within the upper 6 cm of the sediment. The number and duration of oxidation events declined with sediment depth below the oxic zone. Oxygen was present in the anoxic sediment, as determined from redox potential measurements, ≥ 6 h per day at 10% of the randomly chosen locations within the upper 3 cm. The overall distribution of oxidation events and their duration suggest that local, pulsed additions of oxygen by irrigation may be sufficient to maintain an oxidised sediment layer (sensu Jorgensenamp; Revsbech, 1989). Oxic environments along burrow walls rapidly fluctuate between oxic and anoxic conditions. Using oxygen microelectrodes the presence of oxygen (oxic conditions) in these halos was found to range from 2 to 12 h per day. Continuous redox measurements show that oxidised conditions fluctuate with the oxygen pulses and display the same durations, although these may range up to 21 h per day. Oxic and oxidised sediment volumes are estimated to represent < 1% and 3.7%. respectively, of the anoxic sediment to 6 cm depth. Recognition of temporal variability and spatial heterogeneity of sedimentary conditions may prove valuable for future conclusions drawn in other research fields.
The Decline of the North Sea Whelk (Buccinum undatum L.) Between 1970 and 1990: A Natural or a Human‐Induced Event?
Authors: Hallers‐Tjabbes Cat C. Ten , Everaarts Jan M. , Mensink Berend P. , Boon Jan P.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Recent surveys in the southern and central North Sea and the Dutch Wadden Sea revealed that the whelk Buccinun undarum L. can no longer be found in areas where whelks were abundant twenty or more years ago.

The decline of whelk populations tends to coincide with areas of various, intense human activities, which may cause either pollution or physical damage. Potential causes for the decline of whelks from the southern North Sea and coastal areas are discussed and considered in view of North Sea ecology and protective policies for the North Sea.
Altered Benthic Prey‐Availability Due to Episodic Oxygen Deficiency Caused by Drifting Algal Mats
Authors: Norkko Alf , Bonsdorff Erik
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Large quantities of drifting algal mats have become a common phenomenon on shallow sandy bottoms in the northern Baltic Sea. A decomposing algal mat rapidly induces hypoxic or anoxic conditions in the underlying sediment and interferes with the normal living‐mode of the benthos, i.e., mobility, feeding, and predator‐prey relationships. Field surveys have shown that bivalves, such as Macoma balthica, avoid the unfavourable anoxic conditions by emerging at the sediment surface. Due to low reburrowing rates these bivalves are exposed to epibenthic predators once the drift algae disperse. A series of aquarium experiments were conducted to test for differences in the survival of M. balthica when exposed to continuous predation without prior stress and short‐term predation after hypoxic stress induced by algae (= 20% 02‐saturation). Sublethally stressed adult M. balthica, that normally are outside the size‐range of the isopod predator Saduria entomon, became significantly more susceptible to predation when lying exposed at the sediment surface. The same effects were found with two other predators, the brown‐shrimp Crangon crungon and the flounder Platichthysflesus. Drift algal mats induced an escape‐reaction in the infauna more rapidly than mere hypoxia. This response is affected by temperature. which further underlines the importance of drift algae influencing prey availability. This paper discusses the role of the drift algae as a regulating factor for the infauna and demonstrates the importance of external structuring factors, such as hypoxic stress and algal mats, on predator‐prey interactions.
Freshwater Phytoplankton Bloom in Visovac Lake ‐ A Possible Cause of Benthic Mortality in Krka Estuary (Adriatic Sea, Croatia)
Authors: Petricioli Donat , Bakran‐Petricioli Tatjana , Viličič Damir , Požar‐Domac Antonieta
Published: May 2008

Abstract. In late summer and early autumn of 1989 benthic mortality in the upper part of Krka estuary extended from the Skradinski buk waterfalls to approximately 5 km downstream. Dead benthic organisms were found on the bottom at depths of up to 4.5 m. During August, a freshwater phytoplankton bloom was recorded in Visovac lake (which supplies the Skradinski buk waterfalls). The green tide in the lake was composed of up to 11.9 million cells. 1‐‐1, predominantly of Synedra acus and Dinobtyon sertularia. At that time the maximal total inflow of phytoplankton cells through the waterfalls was approx. 0.41 S‐I (38000 1. d‐1). Cells of these two species died after reaching the salt wedge and the cummulative effect of their decomposition apparently caused an oxygen demand sufficient enough to trigger the benthic mortality. Due to the water mass dynamics, the spreading of mortality downstream was slow (from August to October, approx. 5 km). Certain benthic fishes (like Gobius sp.) were observed on the bottom of the affected area in mid‐October 1989.
Multi‐level Effects of Severe Storms on an Offshore Temperate Reef System: Benthic Sediments, Macroalgae, and Implications for Fisheries
Authors: Renaud Paul E. , Ambrose William G. , Riggs Stanley R. , Syster David A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Episodic events have been shown to strongly affect structure and function of marine benthic ecosystems. Severe storms can have profound effects on the distribution of marine sediments which could, in turn, influence the development of benthic communities. The rich and diverse epibenthic communities on the United States mid‐Atlantic continental shelf owe their existence to the presence of a complex sequence of rocky outcrops. An unusually strong storm struck this shelf system in March 1993. Two of these carbonate platforms had been characterized by moderate sediment cover for at least the previous two years, but bottom water velocities generated by this storm removed considerable amounts of sediment from these upper flat hardbottom habitats. Macroalgal cover on these platforms dramatically increased between 1992 and 1993 with the increased exposure of hard substrate for attachment. The edges of the outcrops (scarps and rubble ramps), which are usually free of sediment, maintained their dense algal cover. Settlement blocks placed in various sub‐habitats showed little variation in algal cover among flat hardbottom and scarp areas during both years, indicating that available hard substrate habitat may be the primary limiting factor for algal growth on the North Carolina continental shelf. Since macroalgal meadows provide food and shelter for juvenile fish, the increase in critical habitat following these storms may have implications for recruitment of economically important fish species. Thus, indirect effects of episodic storms, i.e., redistribution of sand bodies leading to algal meadow development over large spatial scales, may have important consequences for benthic community development and persistence in temperate reef systems.
The Model‐Free Analysis of Growth Curves
Authors: Aldrich John Carlson , Lawler Ian F.
Published: May 2008

Abstract.

An incremental (graphical in this presentation) method for the analysis of growth curves has revealed actual, as opposed to modelled, growth rates. Here, we present data derived from the scallop Pecten maximus (L.). These actual rates exhibit differences in annual environmental conditions and differences between local populations.

Both first and second derivatives (growth rate and acceleration ⁄ deceleration in growth rate, respectively) can be obtained from plotted size ⁄ age data: here, size is represented by the height of the flat left valve.

The analysis of age class data from different years allows one to estimate maximum theoretical rates in any given year.

The analysis of individual data naturally reveals more than the analysis of average data, reinforcing the average nature of population growth parameters.

The departure of average data from the maxima revealed by the analysis of growth rate and acceleration allows one to identify changes in environmental conditions in different years.

The Von Bertalanffy growth curve has been used as an example because it is well known and widely used; however, any desired growth curve can be fitted by the method discussed here.
Spectrofluorometric Applications in Studying Macroalgal Exudates*
Authors: Dujmov Jozo , Sučević Perica , Antolić Boris
Published: May 2008

Abstract. In this paper we present a one‐year investigation on the fluorescence characteristics of released products of selected Adriatic seaweeds. The technique chosen was UV‐fluorescence spectroscopy with the synchronous mode, which involves the stepping of the excitation and emission monochromators. The five species, of representative macrophytes, Cystoseira compressa, Dictyopreris polypodioides, Gracilaria bursapastoris, Pterocladia capillacea, and Ulva rigida, were chosen on the basis of their dominance in the plant communities typical for the area near Split ‐ Central Adriatic. Our results suggest that macroalgal‐related dissolved fluorescent matter can be categorized into two distinct groups of fluorescing compounds with the following excitation wavelengths: one from 320–360 nm, probably for compounds with 2 fused aromatic rings, and another from 360–420 nm, corresponding with 3 & 4 fused rings.

The contribution of aromatics with 2 and with 3 & 4 rings was very similar in the brown algae Cysroseira compressa and Dictyopteris polypodioides, while in the red algae Gracilaria bursapastoris and Pterocludia capillacea as well in the green alga Ulva rigida the group with 2 rings dominated.
Life Strategies in Two Bacterivorous Marine Nematodes: Preliminary Results
Authors: Vierstraete Tom Moens. Andy , Vincx Magda
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Temperature dependence of sex ratio and maximal densities of the estuarine, deposit‐feeding nematodes Pellioditis marina (Rhabditidae) and Diplolaimelloides meyli (Monhysreridae) were investigated in vitro. Both species are characteristic for organically enriched habitats. Data from competition culture experiments with both species are integrated with information from respiration measurements at different temperatures, and from observations on the influence of temperature and bacterial density on uptake rates.

Sex ratio was significantly influenced by temperature in both species, with the highest relative numbers of males at the highest temperatures. Total numbers attained fluctuated only moderately in the 10 to 20 °C interval, but increased and decreased highly significantly at 25 °C for D. meyli and P. marina, respectively.

Respiration at temperatures from 5 °C to 30 °C was measured with nematodes from monospecific cultures using a modified Clark electrode procedure. Respiration was dependent upon temperature in the entire range for P. marina, but not for D. meyli, where only at 25 °C a clear respiratory acceleration was observed.

Feeding experiments with P. marina showed a dominant influence of bacterial density on uptake rates, with a lower but still significant temperature effect.

These data are discussed in relation to the overall life strategies of both species.
The Uptake of Colloidal Melanin from Seawater by Marine Bivalves
Authors: Tack Jurgen Frans , Polk Philip
Published: May 2008

Abstract. A number of coastal organisms (e.g., bivalves) are known as important consumers of particulate organic carbon (POC) in the sea. In this paper we present new evidence that they are also important consumers of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in the colloidal size range down to about 0.2 μm in diameter. Those colloids play an important role in the global flux of carbon in the seas.

We compare the uptake of colloidal DOC by marine bivalves of the North Sea and of the western Indian ocean.

To measure this uptake we made use of colloidal melanin as an alternative way to measure the uptake of colloidal DOC.
Resource Use by a Mediterranean Rocky Slope Fish Assemblage
Authors: Fasola M. , Canova L. , Foschi F. , Novelli O. , Bressan M.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Resource partitioning has been intensely studied in fish assemblages of tropical reefs, whereas surprisingly little research has been conducted on the benthic Mediterranean. Here we describe the composition of a fish assemblage of the rocky slopes at Tremiti Islands, southern Adriatic Sea, the vertical distribution at depths from 0 to 42 m, habitat choice and food use of the different species, and we identify the resources along which species are ecologically segregated. Species composition and fish density showed high similarities with the few other assemblages that have been censused on the rocky coasts of the Mediterranean. We observed a wide overdispersion among species in their use of food and habitat, while very little segregation occurred at the level of depth distribution. No coincident use of food, habitat or active periods occurred among fish species, and no trophic guilds exist in the three‐dimensional niche.
Fish Assemblages of Posidonia oceanica Beds at Port‐Cros (France, NW Mediterranean): Assessment of Composition and Long‐Term Fluctuations by Visual Census
Authors: Francour P.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Observations of the fish fauna of Posidonia oceanica (L.) DELILE seagrass beds were undertaken in two shallow stations and one deeper station in Port‐Cros National Park, between November 1984 and September 1987. Demographic structure, density and biomass of the 19 most abundant species or taxa were assessed by several non‐destructive sampling methods. The fish assemblages studied were dominated in number and biomass by a small number of species (Labridae: Symphodus ocellatus and S. tinca; Sparidae: Diplodus annularis and Sarpa salpa). Large individuals were infrequent and small size class fish were dominant especially in sheltered shallow areas. Recruitment and migrations (shortor long‐term) have been identified as the most important causes of abundance variations over the year. The four trophic categories were sampled only in the sheltered shallow zone, where the herbivore Sarpa salpa represents a strong proportion of the fish fauna (40–70%) during summer. The fish assemblages differ between the three seagrass beds, and the depth appears as the most important factor affecting the fish assemblages in P. oceanica. The functional difference between shallow and deeper seagrass beds is therefore discussed.
Volume and Ion Regulation During Repeated Exposure to Temperature Change: Physiological Divergence in Trans‐Isthmian Cognate Pairs and Latitudinally Distant Populations of Decapod Crustacea
Authors: Ferraris J. D. , Norenburg J. L.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. When the Isthmus of Panama emerged as a land bridge, it set the stage for allopatric speciation in the marine fauna. In the present study Pacific and Atlantic populations of three cognate pairs of crabs were used to discern whether physiological divergence has occurred as a result of exposure to different thermal regimes in habitats and in the putative absence of gene flow. Additional comparison was made with Belize and Florida populations of the Atlantic Panama cognate. This was done to test the strength of correlation between physiological divergence and exposure to different thermal regimes in populations that potentially form a common genetic pool. Water temperatures decrease periodically in Pacific Panama and Florida but not in Atlantic Panama or Belize. Physiological divergence in volume and ion regulation was assessed in response to repeated exposure to either control and decreased temperature or to control and increased temperature. Results indicate that exposure to naturally occurring decreased temperatures in habitats has resulted in divergence. This divergence is demonstrated both in enhanced ability to regulate volume at decreased temperature and impaired ability to regulate volume at elevated temperature.
Horizontal Transfer of Matter by a Cave‐Dwelling Mysid
Authors: Coma R. , Carola M. , Riera T. , Zabala M.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. The role of a cave‐dwelling mysid population as a matter carrier was evaluated in a cave of the Medes Is. (NW Mediterranean) during 1988–89. Hemimysis spehmcola (Ledoyer, 1963) is a gregarious mysid whose swarms migrate daily from the inner end of the cave ‐ where they remain during the day–to the exterior where they feed during the night. Fecal pellet composition, pellet egestion and pellet decomposition were measured in order to evaluate the transfer of matter by mysids. Based on the strong daily behavioural rhythms of these mysids. special importance was attached to the sampling frequency (every 2 h). In order to assess seasonal variability, four daily cycles were evaluated within a year. In situ incubations were carried out to determine changes on the egestion rates, morphology, weight and composition (AA. C: N ratios) of pellets in the course of a day. The number of pellets deposited inside the cave was estimated using containers distributed along the cave bottom by SCUBA divers.

Fecal pellets showed an amorphous composition, whereby diatom frustules, dinoflagellate loricae and coccolithoporids were very scarce. About 25% of the body weight were estimated to be egested daily as fecal pellets, suggesting a detritivorous feeding habit. The population oscillated seasonally between 1 and 12 millions. Individuals egested between 1.6 and 3.5 pellets a day into the cave, each averaging from 9.4 to 11.9 μg DW, 0.5 to 1.0 μg C and 0.046 to 0.27 μg N. Therefore, the population carried daily about 20 407 g DW POM. 2–21 g C and 0.5 2.7 g N from outside to inside the cave. Pellets decomposed very quickly; between 20 to 50% of both C and N were released from pellets in less than 2 h after egestion. Oxidation of pellets theoretically consumes an amount of oxygen which agrees with the high BOD values previously reported for this cave. Marine caves are generally viewed as strictly oligotrophic systems; dense mysid populations, however, could strongly modify the trophic relationships in marine caves.
Trophic Potential and Photoecology of Endolithic Algae Living within Coral Skeletons
Authors: Schlichter D. , Kampmann H. , Conrady S.
Published: May 2008

Abstract.The biomass of the endolithic algaeOstreobium quekettiiPhyllosiphoniaceae living within skeletons of the scleractinansMycedium elephantotusandLeptoseris fragilisaverages 300 μg protein. cm‐2. This represents approximately 7% of the protein of the zooxanthekie‐containing tissue ofM. elephantotusand approximately 38% of that ofL. fragilis. Oxygen production Pmaxnetof0. querkettiiin bare skeletons ofM. elephantotusaveraged 0.7 μg O2.cm‐2· h‐1measured in large skeletal fragments. This amount is approximately 6% of the productivity of the zooxanthellaeSymbiodinium microadriaticumliving in the same scleractinian species at the same depth Pmaxnet11 μg O2· Cm‐2· h‐1. Light compensation ofO. quekettii‐ within skeletons ‐ was reached at approximately 10 and saturation at 35 40 μE·m‐2· s‐1. Algae within theM. elephantotusskeletons receive a maximum of 4–6% of the ambient irradiance, which is approximately 0.9 μE · m‐2· s‐1approximately 0.04% surface irradiance at a depth of 88 m. InL. fragilisat a depth of 145 m, the photon flux decreases to 0.3 μE·m‐2· s‐1, which is less than 0.004% of surface intensity. With increasing depth, the ratio of Chlbto Chlaincreased in endolithic algae colonizingL. fragilis, indicating improvement of light harvesting under low light conditions. In free‐livingO. quekettiicultured at irradiance levels from 0.5–60 μE·m‐2· s‐1, the concentrations of chlorophylls increased and that of siphonein and β‐carotene decreased with decreasing photon flux.
Production of Domoic Acid by Pseudo‐nitzschia multiseries Hasle, Affected by Lithium
Authors: Rao D. V. Subba , Pan Y. , Mukhida K.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Upon enrichment with lithium 385.6 μM Li, culture of Pseudo‐nitzschia multiseries Hasle produces substantially higher level of the neurotoxin domoic acid DA 230 fg · cell‐1 than the control 135 fg · cell‐1. We hypothesize that in Cardigan Bay, where the first domoic acid episode was reported, high levels of Li could have originated via a massive freshwater run‐off involving an adjacent dump. Lithium enrichment may have played a part in enhancing DA production leading to the intoxication episodes of 1987. Thus, anthropogenic activities may play a role as a sustainer of algal blooms and should be included in habitat management considerations involving coastal and inshore algal blooms, both toxigenic and non‐toxigenic.
Population Dynamics of Pinnixa patagoniensis Rathbun, 1918 Brachyura: Pinnotheridae a Symbiotic Crab of Sergio mirim Thalassinidea: Callianassidae in Cassino Beach, Southern Brazil
Authors: Alves Eliana dos Santos , Pezzuto Paulo Ricardo
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Pinnotherid crabs are typically found associated with many benthic invertebrates. On sandy beaches of southern Brazil, Pinnixa patagoniensis Rathbun, 1918 inhabits burrows of the ghost shrimp Sergio mirim Rodrigues, 1971. The population dynamics of this crab were studied from monthly samples taken between March 1989 and November 1991 near the Patos Lagoon outlet, southern Brazil ca. 32°13'S; 52°15'W. There was no correlation between the number and size of the crabs and the size of their respective hosts. Mean densities and incidence reached 3.1 indiv. opening‐1 range: 0 to 29 and 83.9%. respectively. Sex‐ratios were not significantly different from 1:1 for the different size classes and sampling dates. Ovigerous females were found between October and March, showing an average fecundity of 1529 eggs per female. The annual recruitment pattern was bimodal, with a minor peak in summer and a fall peak that accounted for almost 70% of the population maintenance. Males and females both reached a maximum carapace width of 11.5 mm and had a life span of nearly two years as estimated from fitted von Bertalanffy growth curve parameters.
Production of the Crab Elamenopsis kempiHymenosomatidae in the Garmat‐Ali Region, Basrah, Iraq
Authors: Ali Malik H. , Salman Salman D.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. The production of the hymenosomatid crab Elamenopsis kempi was calculated for a period of 18 months from a subtidal area of the Garmat‐Ali river, southern Iraq. The highest average individual somatic energy was attained in spring. Maximum population biomass and production were attained by the summer cohort and the minimum values were exhibited by the overwintering cohort. The fluctuations of the average population biomass were followed throughout the sampling period. Average total annual population production was 13.2 g DW · m‐2· a‐1 and the P/B ratio was 5.9. These values were compared with those of the most common crustaceans in the region.
Haplosyllis spongicola Grube Polychaeta, Syllidae Associated with Two Species of Sponges from East Africa Tanzania, Indian Ocean
Authors: MAGNINO G. , GAINO E.
Published: May 2008

Abstract. The presence of Haplosyllis spongicola Grube 1855 Polychaeta, Syllidae in two sponge species from the Indian Ocean Tanzania, Theonella swinhoei Gray 1868 and Liosina paradoxa THIELE 1899, was detected. Polychaetes lived exclusively inside the aquiferous system of the sponges, reaching a mean density of 68 individuals · cm‐3 in T. swinhoei and 148 individuals · cm‐3 in L. paradoxa Acetone extractions were prepared from sponge tissues of T. swinhoei and L. paradoxa and from the gut contents of their respective inhabiting polychaetes. Absorption spectra matched for each sponge/polychaete pair. These data confirm that polychaetes exploit the soft parts of the sponges in which they live. In addition, in L. paradoxa direct confirmation of a predatory activity of worms on sponge internal tissues was obtained on the basis of the finding of terrigenous sediments, which typically reinforced the sponge canal walls, in the gut lumen of the inhabiting polychaete. No evident ultrastructural changes of the host tissue due to endobionts have been observed. These results confirm the parasitic/micropredatory habits of H. spongicola. Data on different morphological characteristics of H. spongicola living in the two sponge species are presented and discussed.
Correlation Between Habitat Structure and a Rocky Reef Fish Assemblage in the Southwest Mediterranean
Authors: Charton J. A. Garcia , Ruzafa A. Pérez
Published: May 2008

Abstract. We examined the correlation between the variables describing a visually censused reef fish assemblage and several habitat structure descriptors both vertical complexity and horizontal heterogeneity in the southwest Mediterranean. We used multiple regression analyses in the framework of generalized linear models GLM, and a redundancy analysis RDA evaluated through a Monte Carlo permutation test with a 1% level of significance. A significant positive relationship was observed between habitat complexity as measured by the number of rocky boulders of several sizes, the number of species 250m‐3 P < 0.05 and the mean total abundance P < 0.001. Species diversity decreases with the increment of large boulder numbers. although the correlation is weak adj. r2= 0.27, P < 0.05. The canonical ordination has discerned only the effect of depth on fish species composition, unrelated to the possible influence of habitat structure. Whether the observed response of the fish assemblage to changes of habitat structure is a consequence of the lack of available space promoting competition for space as a potential driving force for structuring Mediterranean rocky reef fish assemblages, or whether it is due to a diversification of resources following the increase of habitat complexity, cannot be decided with an observational approach such as that used here. Two immediate implications of the present study are the adequacy of estimating habitat complexity by counting size‐classified rocky boulders rather than measuring rugosity perhaps a scale‐related effect, and the fact that habitat heterogeneity has no apparent influence on parameters of the fish assemblage; the latter may reflect an inadequate sampling size 50 times 5 m transects to quantify the effect of this aspect of habitat structure on species composition. Some implications for applied issues and novel methodological approaches to the problem are suggested.
Seasonal Analysis of Zoobenthos Associated with a Zostera marina L. Bed in Gulbahce Bay Aegean Sea, Turkey
Authors: çInar Melik E. , Ergen Zeki , Ozturk Bilal , Kirkim Ferzi
Published: May 2008

Abstract. seasonal sampling of three stations in Gulbahce Bay Aegean Sea for the zoobenthic organisms associated with a Zostera marina bed was carried out during 1993–94. Temperature, salinity and oxygen were recorded each sampling period. A total of 7 taxonomic groups were determined: Polychaeta was the dominant group comprising 77 % of the total taxa and individuals, followed by Crustacea, Bivalvia and other groups such as Nemertea. Sipuncula, Turbellaria and Phoronida. Of the 108 taxa encountered, the polychaetes Notomastus latericeus and Caulleriella alata accounted for 49 % of the total populations. The species abundance did not show major changes among seasons, with highest values in fall 982 indiv. ·m‐2 and lowest in spring 754 indiv. ·m‐2. Diversity and evenness of the samples were relatively high and fairly constant, and were affected by the dominance levels of the species.
The Continental Shelf of Crete: The Benthic Environment
Authors: Karakassis Ioanni , Eleftheriou Anastasios
Published: May 2008

Abstract. Sediment characteristics determining macrofauna communities were investigated on the continental shelf of Crete. The sedimentary environment of the outer continental shelf of Crete is characterized by a silty substrate with significant decrease in chlorophyll a and organic carbon concentration with depth. Redox potential values indicated an ample supply of oxygen at all depths. Values of most production‐related parameters TOC, chlorophyll a, ATP were found at the low end of the range reported from the literature even though the sampling stations were very close to the coastline. Organic carbon to chlorophyll ratios in the sediments indicated that most of the organic material is of phytoplankton origin; the quality of the organic material in the outer shelf, however, seems to be of lower bioavailability.
Novel intra‐arterial strategies in the treatment of acute ischaemic stroke
Authors: Ng PP , Stevens EA , Skalabrin EJ
Published: May 2008

Acute ischaemic stroke is among the leading causes of death and disability in developed societies. I.v. and intra‐arterial thrombolysis, and mechanical thrombectomy carried out within the appropriate time window can result in superior clinical outcomes compared with traditional therapy consisting of anticoagulation and/or aspirin. In cases where thrombolysis and/or thrombectomy have not been proven effective or have failed to result in rapid clinical and/or angiographic improvement, novel intra‐arterial strategies may be applied by experienced interventional neuroradiologists to achieve recanalization of recalcitrant vessel occlusions with good clinical outcomes.
Unusual causes of small bowel obstruction and contemporary diagnostic algorithm
Authors: Gümüştaş OG , Gümüştaş A , Yalçın R , Savcı G , Soylu RA
Published: May 2008

Intestinal obstruction is a common clinical abnormality. In 60–80% of cases, the small bowel is affected. Although postoperative adhesions are responsible in 60% of cases, the other frequently observed causes are hernia, strangulation and tumours, such as carcinoid, lymphoma or adenocarcinoma. In this pictorial essay, we presented the radiological findings of uncommon causes of small bowel obstruction as well as the suggested diagnostic algorithm.
Imaging of horseshoe kidneys and their complications
Authors: O’Brien J , Buckley O , Doody O , Ward E , Persaud T , Torreggiani W
Published: May 2008

Horseshoe kidney is the most common renal fusion anomaly and the patients are prone to a variety of complications, such as stone disease, pelviureteric junction (PUJ) obstruction, trauma, infections and tumours. As result of the abnormal anatomy of a horseshoe kidney, imaging and treatment pathways vary substantially from the normal kidney. In this review, we describe the role of modern imaging in depicting horseshoe kidneys and their complications, in tandem with the role the interventional radiologist plays in treating these patients.
Clinical significance of intrasubstance meniscal lesions on MRI
Authors: Low AK , Chia MR , Carmody DJ , Lucas P , Hale D
Published: May 2008

Grade 2 meniscal changes on MRI are linear signals confined within the meniscus thought to represent areas of meniscal degeneration or intrasubstance tears. It has been reported that in only 10% of cases is a meniscal tear detected during subsequent arthroscopy. Usually non‐operative management is appropriate, but in some cases, grade 2 meniscal changes are seen on MRI in patients with a typical presentation of a meniscal tear. In this circumstance, an arthroscopic partial meniscectomy may be indicated and an MRI report, which describes the meniscus as being normal, may be confusing. A pilot study of 10 consecutive symptomatic patients (mean age 28.1 years) with a grade 2 meniscal signal on MRI was performed. At arthroscopy, with thorough examination of the meniscus using a probe, an intrasubstance tear was detected in all 10 patients. Partial meniscectomy was performed, with a mean follow‐up of 6.7 months. All but one patient (due to other pathology) had marked improvement in pain and function. Thus, the authors believe that grade 2 signal changes should be reported in a manner that raises the possibility that they may cause symptoms and that the presence of any intrasubstance changes should be clearly conveyed in the report.
Colour of environmental noise affects the nonlinear dynamics of cycling, stage‐structured populations
Authors: Reuman Daniel C. , Costantino Robert F. , Desharnais Robert A. , Cohen Joel E.
Published: May 2008

Populations fluctuate because of their internal dynamics, which can be nonlinear and stochastic, and in response to environmental variation. Theory predicts how the colour of environmental stochasticity affects population means, variances and correlations with the environment over time. The theory has not been tested for cycling populations, commonly observed in field systems. We applied noise of different colours to cycling laboratory beetle populations, holding other statistical properties of the noise fixed. Theory was largely validated, but failed to predict observations in sufficient detail. The main period of population cycling was shifted up to 33% by the colour of environmental stochasticity. Noise colour affected population means, variances and dominant periodicities differently for populations that cycled in different ways without noise. Our results show that changes in the colour of climatic variability, partly caused by humans, may affect the main periodicity of cycling populations, possibly impacting industry, pest management and conservation.
Multivisceral resections for locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Derici H. , Unalp H. R. , Kamer E. , Bozdag A. D. , Tansug T. , Nazli O. , Kara C.
Published: May 2008

Objective  The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of en bloc multivisceral resection of organs involved by locally advanced rectal carcinoma.

Method  A total of 312 patients with primary rectal cancer underwent surgery between January 1994 and April 2005. Of these, 57 patients (18.3%) had macroscopically direct invasion of an adjacent organ or structure, and underwent multivisceral resection with curative intent. Survival analyses were made by the Kaplan–Meier and the Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results  The postoperative mortality was 3.5%. The overall survival rate at 1, 3 and 5 years was 96.4%, 81.6% and 49.0%. Age (≥65 years), depth of tumour invasion (pT3 stage), lymph node status (pN0), tumour stage (III A–B), grading (G1), vascular and neural invasion (not extensive), type of adhesion (inflammatory) and type of resection (R0) were significant factors favouring survival in the univariate analysis. Only two factors, lymph node status pN0 (P = 0.007) and R0 resection (P = 0.005) were independently significant factors in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusion  R0 resection and pN0 status influence overall survival for locally advanced rectal carcinoma.
The impact of different time frames of risk communication on Type 2 diabetes patients’ understanding and memory for risk of coronary heart disease and stroke
Authors: Asimakopoulou K. G. , Fox C. , Spimpolo J. , Marsh S. , Skinner T. C.
Published: May 2008

Aims  We examined the impact of communicating risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke, using three time frames (1, 5 or 10 years), on Type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients’ understanding of risk of CHD/stroke and their memory for these risks.

Methods  Patients (N = 95) estimated their risk of developing CHD/having a stroke as a result of diabetes, in one of three time frames. Using the United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study Risk Engine and the same time frame, patients were then given individualized, objective risk estimates of developing CHD/stroke. Following explanation of these risks, patients’ risk understanding was examined by asking them to report again their risk of developing CHD/stroke. Six weeks later we assessed patient memory for these risks by asking them to recall their actual risk estimates for CHD/stroke.

Results  In all time frames, we successfully reduced participants’ originally inflated risk perceptions of CHD (F1,92 = 73.01, P < 0.001) and stroke (F1,91 = 119.05, P < 0.001), although the 10‐year risk group was the most resistant to correction for both CHD (F1,90 = 9.32, P < 0.001) and stroke (F2,88 = 3.97, P < 0.02). Participants’ recall of their stroke risk at 6 weeks regressed towards original, inflated risk perceptions for the 10‐year group only (F4,176 = 4.73, P < 0.001).

Conclusion  Patients’ inflated perceptions of CHD/stroke risk can be easily corrected using shorter (1‐ or 5‐year) risk communication time frames.
Long‐term adherence to statin treatment in diabetes
Authors: Donnelly L. A. , Doney A. S. F. , Morris A. D. , Palmer C. N. A. , Donnan P. T.
Published: May 2008

Aims  To determine the patterns and predictors of long‐term adherence to statin therapy in all patients with diabetes in the community setting.

Methods  We retrospectively studied patients with diabetes who were resident in Tayside, Scotland from 1 January 1989 to 31 May 2003 and initiated statin treatment during that time. The main outcome measure was percentage of days covered (PDC) by a statin, calculated at regular intervals. Predictors of suboptimal adherence (PDC < 80%) were identified using generalized linear models for repeated measures.

Results  Six thousand four hundred and sixty‐two patients were included in the study. In the first year, the mean PDC was 87, 61% in the first and second quarter, respectively, and 65% after 13 years. Less than 50% of patients maintained a PDC of > 80% after 13 years. Predictors of poor long‐term adherence were younger age, higher HbA1c, no history of smoking, no cardiovascular morbidity at baseline and occurrence of cardiovascular disease after statin commencement.

Conclusions  This study suggests that barriers to long‐term adherence to statins tend to arise early on in the therapeutic course. In general, long‐term adherence is poor in patients with diabetes, especially among those with few other cardiovascular risk factors.
Diabetes and anxiety in US adults: findings from the 2006 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System
Authors: Li C. , Barker L. , Ford E. S. , Zhang X. , Strine T. W. , Mokdad A. H.
Published: May 2008

Aims  Anxiety disorders may cause substantial impairment in patient functioning and well‐being. Little is known about the relationship between diabetes and anxiety. We estimated the prevalence of lifetime diagnosis of anxiety in adults aged ≥ 18 years with and without diabetes in the USA.

Methods  We analysed data from the 2006 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (total, N = 201 575; 20 142 with diabetes; 39.4% men, 77.9% non‐Hispanic Whites, 8.1% non‐Hispanic Blacks and 7.7% Hispanics; mean age 52.4 years). Diabetes and lifetime diagnosis of anxiety were self‐reported. A multivariable log–binomial model was used to estimate prevalence ratios (PR) and associated 95% confidence intervals (CI) of anxiety based on diabetes status.

Results  The overall age‐adjusted prevalence of lifetime diagnosis of anxiety was 19.5 and 10.9% in people with and without diabetes, respectively. After adjustment for educational level, marital status, employment status, current smoking, leisure‐time physical activity and body mass index, people with diabetes had a 20% higher prevalence of lifetime diagnosis of anxiety than those without (PR 1.20; 95% CI 1.12, 1.30). There were no significant differences in the PR by gender (P = 0.06). However, the ratios differed significantly by age (P = 0.04) and by race/ethnicity (P < 0.01), indicating that people aged 18−29 years (PR 1.70; 95% CI 1.19, 2.43) and Hispanics (PR 1.69; 95% CI 1.33, 2.15) had a higher ratio than their counterparts.

Conclusion  Diabetes was significantly associated with anxiety in adults in this large population‐based sample, particularly in Hispanics and young adults.
Knowledge, Sentience and Receptivity: a paradigm of lifelong learning
Authors: ENEROTH BO
Published: May 2008

This article aims to develop a paradigm of lifelong learning situations. The starting point is the EU‐Commission policy document where three kinds of learning situations are identified: formal, non‐formal and informal. The article tries to deepen this categorisation by searching for the underlying ontological and epistemological dimensions.

The ontological dimension consists of three corresponding realities — formal, non‐formal and informal reality. The formal reality is a world of generalities. The non‐formal reality is a world of individualities – and not just of individual human beings.

In the same way, the epistemological dimension consists of three corresponding kinds of knowledge: formal, non‐formal and informal. Formal knowledge is a knowing you can formulate, basically as concepts in thoughts possible to formulate in words. Non‐formal knowledge consists of the learner's ability to see and sense what an actual event shows and (literally) make sense‐ible. It is a circumstantial knowledge.

As for informal knowledge, you cannot have that ability. But, in the moment of happening, the event will give you this ability to see and sense what to do and how to do — as a whim or fancy from nowhere. Informal knowledge is epiphanic.

These two dimensions form a nine field paradigm of different kinds of learning settings. In relation to the formal, non‐formal and informal reality the conceptual knowledge will be produced in the academic setting; the learning setting of conceptualising reflection; the learning setting of ignorance. The circumstantial knowledge will be developed in the master‐apprentice learning setting; the learning setting of trial and error; the setting of accidental learning. The epiphanic knowledge will be revealed in the learning setting of self‐evident clearness; the learning setting of individual unique simplicity; the learning setting of vivifying activities.
Hepatitis needs assessment among Jordanian healthcare workers
Authors: Hassan Z.M. , Wahsheh M.A. , Shishani K.R. , Pryor E.R.
Published: May 2008

Background:  Hepatitis infections caused by hepatitis A, B and C virus are considered to be an important health problem worldwide. Based on the available data from the Jordanian Ministry of Health, the incidence rates of hepatitis A and B in the Jordanian population in 2003 were 10.2 and 0.8 per 100 000 per year, respectively; however, data on the incidence of hepatitis C are not currently available.

Research objective:  To assess Jordanian healthcare workers' hepatitis training needs.

Methods:  A total of 339 healthcare workers from private and public Jordanian healthcare settings participated in this descriptive study. The Minnesota Primary Care Practitioners Viral Hepatitis Survey was utilized for data collection.

Results:  Two‐thirds of the participants expressed that they did not have adequate and current training in issues related to hepatitis infections. Healthcare workers indicated an interest in receiving information and training about hepatitis A, B and C (83%, 71% and 80%, respectively).

Conclusion:  The results of this study showed that the majority of Jordanian healthcare workers reported a need for hepatitis training.

Implication to practice:  Standardized training should be provided to healthcare workers who are working in high‐risk settings.
Relationship building through the development of international nursing curricula: a literature review
Authors: Sochan A.
Published: May 2008

Purpose:  This expository paper explores the literature related to the development of international nursing (or midwifery) curricula as a vehicle for studying relationship‐building.

Background:  International nursing curriculum development can be interpreted as a sanctioned extension of transnational, cross‐cultural, political and economic professional outreach activities.

Method:  Extensive literature searches were conducted in the CINAHL, ERIC, PsychINFO and ABI/INFORM Global databases of the key terms: relationship‐building; international; curriculum development; and nursing.

Findings:  The review revealed developing international nursing curricula through cooperative partnerships between institutions of higher learning and/or international development agencies provides a vehicle to build international collegial relationships among nursing faculty and professionals worldwide. A summary is provided in a table.

Conclusions:  Relationship‐building through the development of international nursing curricula merits focused investigation.
Educational needs of nurses when nursing people of a different culture in Ireland
Authors: Tuohy D. , McCarthy J. , Cassidy I. , Graham M. M.
Published: May 2008

Background:  Over the last 10–15 years, there has been a dramatic change in the population of the Republic of Ireland (ROI). Because of strong economic growth, a buoyant economy and universal population migration, the ROI has moved from a mono to a multicultural society over a relatively short period of time. Therefore, nurses in this state have limited experience of caring for people of a different culture.

Aim:  To discuss registered nurses' experiences in the ROI of nursing people from a different culture.

Methods:  The study design was qualitative and participants were purposively sampled (n = 7). Data was collected through semi‐structured interviews and thematically analysed.

Findings:  The main themes to emerge from the interviews were: dealing with cultural issues in practice; accessing and using the interpreter service; planning and taking action to improve nursing care for patients from a different culture.

Conclusion:  Support and education is needed by nurses to improve nursing care of people from a different culture.

Practice implications:  Recommendations for practice are to: develop transcultural nursing education; promote an ethos of providing culturally competent and culturally safe nursing to people of another culture; improve resources available to nurses; provide easier access to formal interpreter services with continuity of interpreters for patients and conduct further research into aspects of health care in multicultural Ireland.