bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nesting ecology and offspring recruitment in a long‐lived turtle
Authors: Schwanz Lisa E. , Bowden Rachel M. , Spencer Ricky-John , Janzen Fredric J.
Published: June 2009

The role of early life stages (eggs, neonates, and juveniles) for population persistence in long‐lived organisms is thought to be minor. However, few long‐term data sets are available to test this assumption. Variation in vital rates over space and time and the potential for the success of early life stages to shape adult reproductive behavior evolutionarily suggest that more thorough consideration of these life stages is necessary. In particular, the impact of climatic variation on early life‐stage recruitment is not well understood. Furthermore, predation occupies a significant role in theoretical models of population dynamics, but its impact on populations through variable vital rates of early life stages is unknown. Maternal nest‐site choice, an important component of nesting ecology, may influence many offspring traits and respond to selection to optimize offspring success. Overall, we have limited information regarding the long‐term patterns of natural fluctuations in the nesting ecology and hatchling recruitment of populations of long‐lived organisms.

The research site for this ongoing long‐term project is on an island in the Mississippi River near Thomson, Illinois, USA. Painted turtles (Chrysemys picta) have been studied extensively at this location since 1989 to examine the ecology and potential demographic consequences of nest‐site choice and depredation, with the aim of understanding the evolution of maternal nesting behavior and its effects on offspring phenotype. We monitored the site every day of the nesting season each year to record nesting and depredation events. The data presented here include nesting phenology, nest vegetation cover, total number of nesting events, clutch size, depredation, and hatchling survival.

Portions of this data set have been used to address related questions in ecology and evolutionary biology. In particular, climatic variation influences the probability of nest depredation events. Such events are typically nonrandom, primarily occurring adjacent to habitat edges. Because habitat edges may have atypical vegetation composition and vegetation influences nest temperature, such nonrandom depredation could influence offspring recruitment and, hence, population structure. Given the unique scope and accessibility of this data set, researchers and teachers should find it to be a valuable empirical resource for exploring important facets of nesting ecology and hatchling recruitment in a wild population of a long‐lived species.

The complete data sets corresponding to abstracts published in the Data Papers section of the journal are published electronically in Ecological Archives at 〈http://esapubs.org/archive〉. (The accession number for each Data Paper is given directly beneath the title.)
Does size predict demographic fate? Modular demography and constraints on growth determine response to decreases in size
Authors: Hart Simon P. , Keough Michael J.
Published: June 2009

The modular construction of many plants and animals defies conventional approaches to the study of life histories and population dynamics. An important complication of modular construction is that individuals can rapidly decrease in size when some modules are removed or die or when an individual fragments. Most attempts to describe life histories and population dynamics of modular organisms classify individuals according to their size. This approach relies on the fundamental assumption that fragmentation and module loss have no consequences for an individual apart from a simple decrease in size. Here we experimentally test this assumption.

Using a modular marine invertebrate, the encrusting bryozoan Watersipora subtorquata, as a model species, we manipulated colony size and then assessed performance against three potential explanatory models based on size, age, and damage. In a second experiment we disrupted the internal modular demography of colonies to determine whether the performance of a fragment is influenced by the type of modules that remain. Finally, we investigated how constraints on growth in modular organisms uniquely influence growth after module loss. We found that single‐state variables such as size or age do not describe performance in our species. Internal constraints substantially reduce growth after a decrease in size, and the age of modules that remain determines the timing of reproductive onset and fecundity. A knowledge of the size history of individuals, including any decreases in size, is necessary to accurately describe life histories and population dynamics in this modular organism. Our results have major consequences for established methods for modeling the demography of modular organisms.
A Study of Polyacrylamide-Based Gels Crosslinked With Polyethyleneimine
Authors: Al-Muntasheri Ghaithan A. , Nasr-El-Din Hisham A. , Al-Noaimi Khalid R. , Zitha Pacelli L. J.
Published: June 2009

Organically crosslinked gels have been used to control water production in high-temperature reservoirs. Most of these gels consist of a polyacrylamide-based polymer and an organic crosslinker. Polyethyleneimine (PEI) has been used as an organic crosslinker for polyacrylamide tertiary butyl acrylate (PAtBA) copolymer. Literature reported that PEI can also form ringing gels with polyacrylamide (PAM) copolymers in addition to simple PAM homopolymers.

We report a comparative study of two water-control gel systems (i.e., PAtBA copolymer and PAM crosslinked with PEI). Several techniques were used in the present study, including gas chromatography (GC), carbon 13 nuclear-magnetic-resonance (C13 NMR) spectroscopy, and steady-shear viscometry. The gases produced during the reaction, structural changes, and gelationtime data were all integrated to provide further insights into differences between the two gelling systems.

The evolution of isobutene gas was identified at temperatures as low as 60°C during the formation of PAtBA/PEI gels. In addition, GC studies revealed the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) as a product of thermal decomposition of the tBA groups on PAtBA during PAtBA/PEI gelation.

Lower initial pH values were found to delay the gelation time of the two systems. Salts were found to increase the gelation time. This paper summarizes these results and investigates the main reaction mechanisms involved. It also discusses how these new findings will affect the application of these gels in the field.
Quantitative Mechanism for Permeability Reduction by Small Water Saturation in Tight-Gas Sandstones
Authors: Motealleh Siyavash , Bryant Steven L.
Published: June 2009

In tight-gas sandstone, the productivity of a well is sometimes quite different from that of a nearby well. Several mechanisms for this observation have been advanced. Of interest in this paper is the possibility that a small change in water saturation can change the gas-phase permeability significantly in rocks with small porosity and very small permeability.

We quantify the effect of small saturations of the wetting phase on nonwetting-phase relative permeability by modeling the geometry of the wetting phase. We also show how a porosity-reducing process relevant in tight-gas sandstones magnifies this effect. The basis for these observations is a model of the grain-scale geometry of low-porosity sandstones. The model is built from a dense random packing of spheres modified geometrically to simulate quartz-overgrowth cementation. To compute phase geometry and permeability, we use a physically representative network model extracted from the model rock. At small saturations (at or near the drainage endpoint), the wetting phase exists largely in the form of pendular rings held at grain contacts. Pore throats correspond to the constriction between groups of three grains, each pair of which can be in contact. Thus, the existence of these pendular rings decreases the void area available for flowing nonwetting phase. Because the hydraulic conductance of the throat varies with the square of the void area, the effect on permeability is disproportionate to the volume occupied by the rings.

Convention holds that connate water has little effect on oil or gas permeability because it occupies the smaller pores. Comparing predictions for unconsolidated model rocks with those for cemented model rocks allows one to reconcile this view with the sensitivity reported in the field and the laboratory.
Estimating Channelized-Reservoir Permeabilities With the Ensemble Kalman Filter: The Importance of Ensemble Design
Authors: Jafarpour Behnam , McLaughlin Dennis B.
Published: June 2009

Efficient management of smart oil fields requires a reservoir model that can provide reliable forecasts of future production and realistic measures of prediction uncertainty. Reliable forecasts depend on an accurate representation of reservoir geology, which is conveyed largely by the permeabilities used in the reservoir simulator. Because these permeabilities cannot be measured directly, they must be inferred from measurements of related variables, using procedures such as history matching or Bayesian estimation. The ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) is an attractive option for permeability estimation in real-time reservoir-control applications. It is easy to implement, provides considerable flexibility for describing geological heterogeneity, and supplies valuable information about prediction uncertainty. However, it is more suited for geological heterogeneities that are amenable to second-order (covariance-based) descriptions. In this paper, we investigate the performance of the EnKF for estimation of channel permeabilities that usually follow a bimodal distribution. We consider two synthetic water-flooding problems based on true permeability distributions characterized by conductive channels. The permeability ensembles are obtained from a multipoint geostatistical simulation method. If the ensemble replicates are derived from training images that do not describe the channel geometry properly, the Kalman filter has difficulty identifying the correct permeability field. In fact, the permeability estimates tend to diverge from the true values as more measurements are included. However, if the filter-ensemble replicates are generated by a training image that contains features that are consistent with those in the true permeability field, the filter's estimates are much better. These results emphasize the importance of generating realistic permeability replicates when using ensemble methods to estimate reservoir properties. In fact, a realistic permeability ensemble appears to be essential for successful estimation performance. With a proper ensemble design, despite the bimodality in the initial permeability distribution, the filter exhibits good performance in identifying the patterns in the true permeability field. In practical applications where the true permeability distribution is highly uncertain, the prior information used for ensemble generation should properly reflect the full range of possible geological conditions.
A Method for Determining Optimum Drilling Techniques
Authors: Speer John W.
Published: June 2009

This report develops a simple method for determining the combination of weight-on-bit, rotary speed and hydraulic horsepower which produces minimum drilling cost. Empirical relationships are developed to show the influence on penetration rate of weight-on-bit, rotary speed and hydraulic horsepower. Optimum weight-on-bit is shown in relation to formation drill ability, and optimum rotary speed is related to weight-on-bit. These five relationships are then combined into a chart for determining optimum drilling techniques from a minimum of field test data.

Secondary issues discussed are: Advantages of the jet bit over the regular bit and minimum nozzle fluid velocity requirements for jet bit use relative to formation drill ability; and distribution of pump horsepower into nozzle fluid velocity and circulating volume.

Introduction

The wide variations in drilling conditions encountered in oilfield work make it difficult to develop general rules of operation for obtaining maximum drilling efficiency. Field experience and test data usually provide the basis for operations in a particular locale, but testing often is too costly and experience too late. Consequently, a method for determining optimum drilling techniques for any particular drilling condition, with a minimum of engineering effort and drilling experience, is greatly needed.

To assist in developing such a method is the purpose of this report. It is recognized that sufficient drilling information has not been accumulated to accomplish this ambitious job without some shortcomings along the way. It is believed, however, that the method proposed is flexible to improvements which are sure to be made, and that ultimately the purpose of the report will be accomplished more comprehensively through a combined effort of interested parties.

Controllable Factors That Affect Bit Performance

Drill bit performance depends primarily on five controllable factors:Weight-on-bit,rate of rotation,hydraulic horsepower,type of bit, andproperties of the circulating medium.

Although each parameter contributes individually to bit performance, they are closely interrelated and their combined influence governs the degree of drilling efficiency obtained. The influences of circulating media have been covered in literature and will not be discussed herein.
Numerical Studies on the Geomechanical Stability of Hydrate-Bearing Sediments
Authors: Rutqvist Jonny , Moridis George J.
Published: June 2009

The thermal and mechanical loading of oceanic hydrate-bearing sediments (HBS) can result in hydrate dissociation and a significant pressure increase with potentially adverse consequences on the integrity and stability of the wellbore assembly, the HBS, and the bounding formations. The perception of HBS instability, coupled with insufficient knowledge of their geomechanical behavior and the absence of predictive capabilities, has resulted in a strategy of avoidance of HBS when locating offshore production platforms and can impede the development of hydrate deposits as gas resources.

In this study, we investigate coupled (interacting) hydraulic, thermodynamic, and geomechanical behavior of oceanic HBS in three cases. The first involves hydrate heating as warm fluids from deeper conventional reservoirs ascend to the ocean floor through uninsulated pipes intersecting the HBS. The second case describes system response during gas production from a hydrate deposit, and the third involves mechanical loading caused by the weight of structures placed on the ocean floor overlying the HBS.

For the analysis of the geomechanical stability of HBS, we developed and used a numerical simulator that integrates a commercial geomechanical simulator and a simulator describing the coupled processes of fluid flow, heat transport, and thermodynam-ic behavior in the HBS. Our simulation results indicate that the stability of HBS in the vicinity of warm pipes may be affected significantly. Gas production from oceanic deposits may also affect the geomechanical stability of HBS under the conditions that are deemed desirable for production. Conversely, the increased pressure caused by the weight of structures on the ocean floor increases the stability of underlying hydrates.
Recent Development in the Use of Calcium Q-Broxin Muds
Authors: McLennan I.C. , Edwards C.A. , Reiman K.
Published: June 2009

These notes have been written to bring up to date information contained in the report "Evaluation and Application of Gypsum Q-Broxin Muds"published in December, 1958.

During the past year calcium Q-Broxin muds have been used in eight wells which had total depths varying from 13,200 feet to 15,500 feet. In seven of the eight wells no drilling trouble of any kind was experienced, and in the eighth where stuck pipe resulted, this has been ascribed to differential pressure effects due to the use of excessively heavy mud. In all wells maintenance of excellent rheological and filtration properties of the muds has been easily attained at relatively low cost.

Flattening of the profile of the self potential curve when using this type of mud led to difficulties in quantitative evaluation of the fluid content of formations and in subsurface correlation studies. Investigation revealed that this was due to the low resistivity of the muds and modifications in mud treatment have resolved this problem

Since this type of mud has been used in wells with very high bottom hole temperatures, an examination of the filtration characteristics at a series of temperatures and pressures has been commenced.

A very simple relationship has been established between the rheological properties of a mud at any two given temperatures. This has permitted the comparison of results obtained in the laboratory with those measured at flowline temperatures at the well site.
Increasing equity of access to point-of-use water treatment products through social marketing and entrepreneurship: a case study in western Kenya
Authors: Freeman Matthew C. , Quick Robert E. , Abbott Daniel P. , Ogutu Paul , Rheingans Richard
Published: June 2009

Point-of-use water chlorination reduces diarrhoea risk by 25–85%. Social marketing has expanded access to inexpensive sodium hypochlorite for water treatment, at a cost of less than US$0.01 per day, in Kenya. To increase product access, women's groups in western Kenya were trained to educate neighbours and sell health products to generate income. We evaluated this programme's impact on equity of access to water treatment products in a cross-sectional survey. We surveyed 487 randomly selected households in eight communities served by the women's groups. Overall, 20% (range 5–39%) of households in eight communities purchased and used chlorine, as confirmed by residual chlorine observed in stored water. Multivariate models using illiteracy and the poorest socioeconomic status as a referent showed that persons with at least some primary education (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.8, 3.5) or secondary education (OR 5.4, 95% CI 1.6, 17.5) and persons in the four wealthiest quintiles (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.0, 6.0) were more likely to chlorinate stored water. While this implementation model was associated with good product penetration and use, barriers to access to inexpensive water treatment remained among the very poor and less educated.
Transmission of Helicobacter pylori and the role of water and biofilms
Authors: Percival Steven L. , Thomas John G.
Published: June 2009

Documented evidence relating to the survival of Helicobacter pylori outside the gastric niche is extremely limited. To date the primary transmission routes of H. pylori have yet to be confirmed and when this is achieved preventive infection control measures can be implemented to reduce and ultimately prevent human infection from this pathogen. There is mounting evidence which suggests that the prevalence of H. pylori infection has a strong correlation with access to clean water, suggesting a transmission route to the host. However, there are no established culture methods for the detection of viable H. pylori in the environment, in particular drinking water supplies, preventing the development of true epidemiological and risk assessments. The aim of this review is to highlight the available data to date that suggests drinking water and possible survival in biofilms as a probable transmission mode for H. pylori.
Sustained use of a household-scale water filtration device in rural Cambodia
Authors: Brown Joe , Proum S. , Sobsey M. D.
Published: June 2009

The effectiveness of point-of-use water treatment may be limited by declining use over time, particularly when water treatment is introduced via targeted intervention programmes. In order to evaluate the long-term uptake and use of locally produced ceramic water filters in rural Cambodia, we visited households that had received filters as part of NGO-subsidized distribution programmes over a 4 year period from 2002 to 2006. Of the more than 2,000 filters distributed, we visited 506 randomly selected households in 13 villages spanning three provinces to assess filter time in use and to collect data on factors potentially correlated with long-term use. Results indicate that filter use declined at the rate of approximately 2% per month after implementation, largely owing to breakages, and that, controlling for time since implementation, continued filter use over time was most closely positively associated with: related water, sanitation and hygiene practices in the home; cash investment in the technology by the household; and use of surface water as a primary drinking water source.
Accumulation of enteric bacteriophage in fresh water sediments
Authors: Skraber Sylvain , Schijven Jack , Italiaander Ronald , Husman Ana Maria de Roda
Published: June 2009

Our study aimed to assess the accumulation of bacteriophages in sandy and clayey fresh water sediments. All of the 24 natural fresh water sediments were positive for somatic and F-specific phages, though their concentrations in the overlying water were undetectable in 1 and 11 samples, respectively, out of 24, corresponding to 4 and 46% for somatic and F-specific phages, respectively. Based on the sediment-to-water ratios, F-specific phages accumulate over 100 times more than the somatic coliphages in clayey sediments. Inactivation of bacteriophages in clayey and sandy sediments over a 1-month period at 15°C was negligible. Our data suggest that persistence of deposited viruses in fresh water sediments leads to accumulation and the findings call for additional investigations on the fate of entrapped pathogenic viruses.
Analysis of seawater microbiological quality data in Greece from 1997 to 2006: association of risk factors with bacterial indicators
Authors: Papastergiou Panagiotis , Mouchtouri Varvara , Karanika Maria , Kostara Elina , Kolokythopoulou Foteini , Mpitsolas Nikos , Papaioannou Angelos , Hadjichristodoulou Christos
Published: June 2009

This study deals with the examination of quality of seawater bathing areas in Greece over a 10-year period and identifies risk factors for high bacteria indicator organism concentrations. Qualitative descriptive analysis was applied and the microbiological test results of 231,205 water samples were associated with pollution markers and other parameters. Measurements of Escherichia coli (99.6%) and enterococci (100%) were found to be in accordance with the mandatory value guidelines set by the new European Directive. An increasing trend for the yearly mean value of faecal streptococci was noted. Using logistic regression analysis, phenolic smell (OR = 2.10, CI = 2.04–2.16), rainfall the day before sampling (OR = 1.67, CI = 1.64–1.74), high seas (OR = 1.42, CI = 1.39–1.46) and rainfall on the day of sampling (OR = 1.27, CI = 1.20–1.33) were positively independently associated with high levels of bacterial indicators (total coliforms, faecal coliforms, faecal streptococci and E. coli). The highest risk, absolute risk value 42.8% (RR = 3.17, CI = 2.97–3.38), was measured when previous day rainfall, phenolic smell and high seas were simultaneously recorded. Such parameters should be further investigated as predetermining factors for the assessment of beach bathing water quality, providing a timely indication of water risk assessment.
The Wisdom Development Scale: Further Validity Investigations
Authors: Greene Jeffrey A. , Brown Scott C.
Published: June 2009

Researchers are gaining an interest in the concept of wisdom, a more holistic yet often ineffable educational outcome. Models of wisdom abound, but few have rigorously tested measures. This study looks at Brown's (2004a, 2004b) Model of Wisdom Development and its associated measure, the Wisdom Development Scale (WDS; Brown & Greene, 2006). The construct validity, measurement invariance, criterion validity, and reliability of scores from the WDS were assessed with over 3000 participants from two separate groups: one a sample of professionals and the other a sample of college students. Support for construct validity and reliability with these samples was found, along with measurement invariance. Latent means analyses showed predicted discrimination between the groups, and criterion validity evidence, with another measure of collegiate educational outcomes, was found.
Elucidating the Origin of Middle Atlantic Pre-Contact Copper Artifacts Using Laser Ablation ICP–MS
Authors: Lattanzi Gregory D.
Published: June 2009

An examination of pre-Contact copper artifacts from sites in the Middle Atlantic Region provides valuable and quantifiable information about trade networks, social organization, and cultural change. Using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA ICP–MS) a copper “fingerprint” with which to compare artifacts to known native sources is established. In this way, copper artifacts are traced back to their probable geologic source. Results from a recent study conducted on Late Archaic to Late Woodland copper artifacts illustrate some of the benefits of conducting this type of research. This current study adds to previous research providing further validity of this analytical technique in prehistoric copper provenance studies.
The Utility of Dog Bone (Canis Familiaris) In Stable Isotope Studies for Investigating the Presence of Prehistoric Maize (Zea Mays Ssp. Mays): A Preliminary Study
Authors: Allitt Sharon , Stewart R. Michael , Messner Timothy
Published: June 2009

This preliminary study investigates an alternative method to exploring and understanding the presence of maize ( Zea mays ssp. mays) in prehistoric human settlement areas using stable isotope ratios from dog ( Canis familiaris) bone as a surrogate to human bone. Using this methodology, this pilot study aims to begin to provide insight into the presence and prominence of maize within the subsistence economies of 2 prehistoric populations in coastal New Jersey—an area where some researchers argue people relied little upon this tropical domesticate. The third sample included in this study is from a prehistoric population in Pennsylvania where cultivation and consumption of maize have been evidenced by macrobotanical remains and stable isotope analyses on human bone. Data derived from this project offers the potential to provide new insight into the distribution of maize into the coastal regions of the Middle Atlantic, as well as enhance our understanding of the diversity of applications for stable isotope analyses in the investigation of human subsistence patterns.
Bibliography on Power Systems Probabilistic Security Analysis 1968-2008
Authors: Schilling Marcus T , Billinton Roy , dos Santos Marcelos Groetaers
Published: June 2009

This paper presents a bibliography on power systems probabilistic security, encompassing small signal, transient stability analysis, and a plethora of closely related subjects.
New Methods for Adaptation to Degeneration in Process Models for Process Industries
Authors: Karlsson Christer P , Avelin Anders , Dahlquist Erik
Published: June 2009

The implementation of model-based control and diagnostics suffer strongly from the fact that models deteriorate as a function of process and sensor deterioration. Also, changes in the raw material (i.e. wood) may occur and often the process control is not addressing these variations in reality. It is thus vital for the model system to be robust in the sense that it is transparent and easy for the operator to maintain. Robustness is essential in many parts of the system, including measurement, process model validation, the ability of the model to adapt to changes in the process, optimization algorithms, and of course the model itself. In this paper, we first show three real-life applications of the utilization of models for diagnostics and control. Thereafter conditions for on-line adaptation of the models are discussed. The challenges when designing such a system are in achieving operator confidence, filtering of misleading measured data, adaptation of process parameters when the process parameters change, and combining validation of measurements and process models. These challenges are met by using a combination of physical and statistical models and methods based on them such as model predictive control (MPC) and parameter estimation. The model should be maintained by a qualified engineer who should be able to explain the system to the operator so that it is understood and confidence can be maintained.
Iodimetric assay of olanzapine in pharmaceuticals using iodate and Nile blue as reagents
Authors: Basavaiah Kanakapura , Zenita O. , Tharpa Kalsang , Rajendraprasad Nagaraju , Anilkumar U.R. , Hiriyana S.G. , Vinay K.B.
Published: June 2009

A simple, selective and cost effective spectrophotometric method has been described for the determination of olanzapine (OLP) in bulk drug and in tablets. The method involves treating OLP with an excess of iodate in acid medium followed by the determination of liberated iodine by reacting with a fixed amount of Nile blue and measuring the absorbance at 400 nm. In this method, the amount of iodine reacted corresponds to the OLP concentration. The experimental conditions for the assay have been optimized and the absorbance is found to increase linearly with the concentration of OLP (r = 0.997). Beer's law is obeyed over the range 15-120 ?g mL-1. The calculated molar absorptivity and Sandell sensitivity values are 0.657?103 l mol-1 cm-1 and 0.475 ?g cm-2, respectively. The limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) are 3.93 and 11.90 ?g ml-1. The performance of the method was validated according to the present ICH guidelines. The repeatability and intermediate precision, expressed by the RSD was better than 3%. The accuracy of the method expressed as relative error was satisfactory. The proposed method was applied to the analysis of tablet form of OLP and the results tallied well with the label claim. No interference was observed from concomitant substances normally added to tablets. The results were statistically compared with those of a literature method by applying the Student's t-test and F-test. The accuracy and validity of the method were further ascertained by performing recovery studies via spike method.
Structural and antimicrobial studies of coordination compounds of VO(II), Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) with some Schiff bases involving 2-amino-4-chlorophenol
Authors: Mishra A.P. , Mishra R.K. , Shrivastava S.P.
Published: June 2009

Complexes of tailor-made ligands with life essential metal ions may be an emerging area to answer the problem of multi-drug resistance (MDR). The coordination complexes of VO(II), Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) with the Schiff bases derived from 2-hydroxyacetophenone/2-chlorobenzaldehyde with 2-amino- 4-chlorophenol were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, molar conductance, electronic spectra, FT-IR, ESR, FAB mass, thermal and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The FAB mass and thermal data show degradation of the complexes. The ligand A (2-hydroxyacetophenone-2amino- -4-chlorophenol) behaved as tridentate and ligand B (2-chlorobenzylidene-2- -amino-4-chlorophenol) as bidentate, coordinating through O and N donors. The complexes [VO(A)(H2O)]?xH2O, [M(A)(H2O)n]?xH2O for Co and Ni, [Cu(A)(H2O)] and [VO(B)2]?xH2O, [M(B)2(H2O)n] for Co and Cu and [Ni(B)2] exhibited coordination numbers 4, 5 or 6. X-ray powder diffraction data (a = = 11.00417 ?, b = 11.706081 ? and c = 54.46780 ?) showed that [Cu(CACP)2(H2O)2], complex 8, crystallized in the orthorhombic system. The in vitro biological screening effects of the investigated compounds were tested against the bacteria Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus fecalis and the fungi Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma polysporum and Candida albicans by the serial dilution method. A comparative study of the MIC values of the Schiff base and their [M(B)2(H2O)2] complexes (Co(II), complex 6 and Cu(II), complex 8), indicated that the metal complexes exhibited a higher or lower antimicrobial activity than 2-chlorobenzylidene-2-amino-4-chlorophenol as the free ligand (B).
Electro-oxidation of ascorbic acid catalyzed on cobalt hydroxide-modified glassy carbon electrode
Authors: Karim-Nezhad Ghasem , Hasanzadeh Mohammad , Saghatforoush Lotfali , Shadjou Nasrin , Khalilzadeh Balal , Ershad Sohrab
Published: June 2009

The electrochemical behavior of ascorbic acid on a cobalt hydroxide modified glassy carbon (CHM-GC) electrode in alkaline solution was investigated. The process of the involved oxidation and its kinetics were established using the cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry techniques, as well as by steady state polarization measurements. The results revealed that cobalt hydroxide promotes the rate of oxidation by increasing the peak current; hence ascorbic acid is oxidized at lower potentials, which is thermodynamically more favorable. The cyclic voltammograms and chronoamperometry indicate a catalytic EC mechanism is operative with the electrogeneration of Co(IV) as the electrochemical process. Also, the process is diffusion-controlled and the current- time responses follow Cottrellian behavior. This result was confirmed by steady state measurements. The rate constants of the catalytic oxidation of ascorbic acid and the electron-transfer coefficient are reported.
Contracting Frame and Individual Behavior: Experimental Evidence
Authors: Church Bryan K. , Libby Theresa , Zhang Ping
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT: This paper reports the results of an experiment examining the effect of the framing of incentive contracts on individual behavior. We examine two budget-based incentive contracts that, though economically equivalent, are framed differently. Previous research documents that individuals prefer bonus-framed to penalty-framed contracts (Luft 1994; Hannan et al. 2005). We explore whether these preferences affect effort expended on a task where increased effort results in increased performance. In addition, we test whether these preferences motivate effort differentially in the presence and absence of an effective financial incentive for performance. Consistent with prospect theory predictions, results indicate the penalty-framed contract motivates higher task performance than the bonus-framed contract for individuals whose performance falls within the bonus or penalty range (i.e., where financial incentives are effective in motivating performance). Performance did not differ according to contract frame for individuals whose performance enabled them to receive the maximum payment or for individuals whose performance resulted in them receiving the minimum payment (i.e., where financial incentives were not effective in motivating performance). Although prior research indicates contract framing affects contract preferences, our results indicate these preferences may not result in differences in individual performance unless effective financial incentives are also utilized.
Public and Private Forms of Opportunism within the Organization: A Joint Examination of Budget and Effort Behavior
Authors: Schatzberg Jeffrey W. , Stevens Douglas E.
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT: We assert that some forms of opportunistic behavior within the organization are relatively transparent and, therefore, public in nature. Further, while organizations can tightly control such public opportunism, it may not be optimal for them to do so in the presence of private opportunism. To study how public and private forms of opportunism differ and interact, we jointly examine budget and effort behavior in a participative budgeting experiment. We group participants into producer/manager pairs and set the parameters such that the producer extracts the largest share of surplus from the manager by publicly setting the budget at zero and privately providing low effort. When the producer unilaterally sets the budget, the public opportunism of budgetary slack is higher and more affected by learning than the private opportunism of low effort. Giving the manager the power to reject the budget not only reduces budgetary slack by about 50 percent, but also generates reciprocity expectations and behavior. In particular, managers who allow more budgetary slack expect and receive higher effort from their producers on average. This reciprocity increases organizational performance by increasing the expected pay of the manager without decreasing the expected pay of the producer.
A Functional Melanocortin System May Be Required for Chronic CNS-Mediated Antidiabetic and Cardiovascular Actions of Leptin
Authors: da Silva Alexandre A. , do Carmo Jussara M. , Freeman J. Nathan , Tallam Lakshmi S. , Hall John E.
Published: June 2009

OBJECTIVE

We recently showed that leptin has powerful central nervous system (CNS)-mediated antidiabetic and cardiovascular actions. This study tested whether the CNS melanocortin system mediates these actions of leptin in diabetic rats.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A cannula was placed in the lateral ventricle of Sprague-Dawley rats for intracerebroventricular infusions, and arterial and venous catheters were implanted to measure mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate 24 h/day and for intravenous infusions. After recovery from surgery for 8 days, rats were injected with streptozotocin (STZ), and 5 days later, either saline or the melanocortin 3 and 4 receptor (MC3/4R) antagonist SHU-9119 (1 nmol/h) was infused intracerebroventricularly for 17 days. Seven days after starting the antagonist, leptin (0.62 μg/h) was added to the intracerebroventricular infusion for 10 days. Another group of diabetic rats was infused with the MC3/4R agonist MTII (10 ng/h i.c.v.) for 12 days, followed by 7 days at 50 ng/h.

RESULTS

Induction of diabetes caused hyperphagia, hyperglycemia, and decreases in heart rate (−76 bpm) and MAP (−7 mmHg). Leptin restored appetite, blood glucose, heart rate, and MAP back to pre-diabetic values in vehicle-treated rats, whereas it had no effect in SHU-9119–treated rats. MTII infusions transiently reduced blood glucose and raised heart rate and MAP, which returned to diabetic values 5–7 days after starting the infusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Although a functional melanocortin system is necessary for the CNS-mediated antidiabetic and cardiovascular actions of leptin, chronic MC3/4R activation is apparently not sufficient to mimic these actions of leptin that may involve interactions of multiple pathways.
Experimental Validation of the Brush Tire Model
Authors: Svendenius J. , Gäfvert M. , Bruzelius F. , Hultén J.
Published: June 2009

The paper contains an experimental validation of the physically based brush-tire model toward the tire behavior in a number of different realistic conditions. Results of measurements performed with summer, winter, and studded tires on different road foundations such as wet and dry asphalt, basalt, snow, and ice are presented. The purpose behind the validation is to study the possibilities of using the brush model to estimate the friction coefficient from measurements or estimates of the longitudinal tire forces and tire slip. The sensitivity of the included tire parameters toward various factors that may change during normal run of the vehicle is also investigated.
Effect of remifentanil on requirements for propofol administered by use of a target-controlled infusion system for maintaining anesthesia in dogs
Authors: Beier Suzane L. , de Araujo Aguiar Antonio J. , Vianna Pedro T. G. , Mattoso Cláudio R. S. , Massone Flavio
Published: June 2009

Objective—To evaluate the effect of remifentanil administered by use of a constant rate infusion on the predicted plasma concentration (Cppredicted) of propofol required to prevent awareness in 50% of anesthetized dogs (Cp50predicted).

Animals—6 healthy dogs.

Procedures—Each dog received 2 treatments (1-week interval): induction and maintenance of anesthesia with propofol alone and induction of anesthesia with propofol and maintenance of anesthesia by use of propofol and a constant rate infusion of remifentanil (0.3 μg/kg/min). To induce anesthesia, propofol was administered by use of a target-controlled infusion system to achieve Cppredicted of 6.0 μg/mL. Propofol Cppredicted was adjusted in 0.5 μg/mL increments or decrements; the motor response to a supramaximal electrical nociceptive stimulus was assessed after each change to determine Cp50predicted (mean of the highest Cppredicted at which gross purposeful movement was detected in response to stimulation and the lowest Cppredicted at which such movement was not detected).

Results—Mean ± SD duration of anesthesia for dogs receiving propofol (148 ± 35 minutes) and dogs receiving propofol-remifentanil treatment (141 ± 28 minutes) did not differ. Overall mean propofol Cppredicted for induction of anesthesia was 6.0 ± 0.5 μg/mL. For maintenance of anesthesia, propofol Cp50predicted was significantly reduced following addition of remifentanil to the protocol (2.0 ± 0.5 μg/mL vs 0.9 ± 0.4 μg/mL; 55% decrease).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In nonpremedicated dogs, propofol Cp50predicted of 6.0 μg/mL may be recommended for induction of anesthesia. Propofol requirements for maintaining target-controlled infusion system–based anesthesia were reduced via infusion of remifentanil at a rate of 0.3 μg/kg/min.
In vitro biomechanical evaluations of screw-bar–polymethylmethacrylate and pin-polymethylmethacrylate internal fixation implants used to stabilize the vertebral motion unit of the fourth and fifth cervical vertebrae in vertebral column specimens from dogs
Authors: Hicks Daniel G. , Pitts Marvin J. , Bagley Rodney S. , Vasavada Anita , Chen Annie V. , Wininger Fred A. , Simon Julianna C.
Published: June 2009

Objective—To determine the change in stiffness as evaluated by the dorsal bending moment of cervical vertebral specimens obtained from canine cadavers after internally stabilizing the vertebral motion unit (VMU) of C4 and C5 with a traditional pin-polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fixation implant or a novel screw-bar–PMMA fixation implant.

Sample Population—12 vertebral column specimens (C3 through C6) obtained from canine cadavers.

Procedures—A dorsal bending moment was applied to the vertebral specimens before and after fixation of the VMU of C4 and C5 by use of a traditional pin-PMMA implant or a novel screw-bar–PMMA implant. Biomechanical data were collected and compared within a specimen (unaltered vs treated) and between treatment groups. Additionally, implant placement was evaluated after biomechanical testing to screen for penetration of the transverse foramen or vertebral canal by the pins or screws.

Results—Treated vertebral specimens were significantly stiffer than unaltered specimens. There was no significant difference in stiffness between vertebral specimen groups after treatment. None of the screws in the novel screw-bar–PMMA implant group penetrated the transverse foramen or vertebral canal, whereas there was mild to severe penetration for 22 of 24 (92%) pins in the traditional pin-PMMA implant group.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Both fixation treatments altered the biomechanical properties of the cervical vertebral specimens as evaluated by the dorsal bending moment. There was reduced incidence of penetration of the transverse foramen or vertebral canal with the novel screw-bar–PMMA implant, compared with the incidence for the traditional pin-PMMA implant.
Evaluation of the effect of topical application of lavender oil on autonomic nerve activity in dogs
Authors: Komiya Migiwa , Sugiyama Akihiko , Tanabe Kazuko , Uchino Tomiya , Takeuchi Takashi
Published: June 2009

Objective—To investigate the effect of topical application of undiluted lavender oil on sympathovagal activity in dogs.

Animals—5 healthy adult male Beagles.

Procedures—An ambulatory ECG monitor (Holter recorder) was placed on each dog (day0), and 48-hour ECGs were recorded, beginning at 8:00 the next day (day 1). Lavender oil (0.18 mL) or saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (0.18 mL) was topically applied to the inner pinnas of both ears of all dogs at 8:30, 12:00, 15:30, and 19:00 on day 2. Each trial was duplicated in each dog, with an interval of 3 to 4 days between trials. Spectral indices of heart rate variability, power in the high-frequency range, and the ratio of low-frequency to high-frequency power were calculated as an indirect estimate of autonomic nerve activity.

Results—When dogs were treated with lavender oil, the mean heart rate was significantly lower during the period of 19:00 to 22:30 on day 2, compared with the mean heart rate during the same period when dogs were treated with saline solution. On the other hand, high-frequency power during the period of 15:30 to 19:00 was significantly higher when dogs were treated with lavender oil, compared with the high-frequency power during the same period when dogs were treated with saline solution.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The study revealed some evidence that topical application of lavender oil affected vagal activity in dogs. However, whether such an effect exists and whether lavender oil has a calming effect on dogs remains equivocal and requires additional investigation.
Leaf Flavonoid Aglycone Patterns, Ethnobotany and Conservation of Schima wallichii
Authors: Joshi Kunjani
Published: June 2009

Schima wallichii (DC.) Korth (Chilaune) is widely distributed in the various habitats of Himalaya. Information regarding chemical constituents of this species is very limited. During the chemotaxonomic study of some angiosperms, falconoid aglycone : flavonal quercetin was isolated from the leaves  of Schima Wallichii using standard procedures after seperation and purification by paper chromatography and TLC (thin layer chromatography) plates in several solvent system, but other falconoid were not detected. The ethno botanical study of Schima Wallichii was also carried out. Various parts and the products of this species are locally used for medicine, fuel and other domestic purposes. This indigenous knowledge can be integrated in the local plan that can help to the poverty alleviation and economic development of the villages. But at present, this plant is under serious threat due to habitat destruction and over-exploitation. A holistic approach is, therefore, essential for the sustainable conversation of this species. In this paper , strategies for conservation of the plant, its resources and habitatshave also been proposed.Key words: Flavonoids; quercetin; ethnobotany; consersation; holistic approachdoi: 10.3126/eco.v13i0.1622Ecoprint (An International Journal of Ecology) Vol. 13, No. 1, 2006 Page 9-13
Cyanophycean Algae from Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Mishra P. K. , Mehrotra R. K. , Shukla Madhulika , Prakash Jai , Mishra Purnima
Published: June 2009

In the present paper 10 Cyanophycean algae belonging 10 genera have been described from eastern U.P. The genera described are: Chroococcus, Microcystis, Aphanothece, Arthrospira, Spirulina, Lyngbya, Anabaena, Rivularia, and Gloeotrichia. All these forms are being reported for the first time from eastern U.P., India.doi: 10.3126/eco.v13i0.1627Key words: Cyanophycean algaeEcoprint (An International Journal of Ecology) Vol. 13, No. 1, 2006 Page: 35-39