bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between field‐saturated hydraulic conductivity and soil structure: development of class pedotransfer functions
Authors: Lilly A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A method to predict field‐saturated hydraulic conductivity (Kfs) from soil structure, as described in soil profile descriptions, was developed using 627 Kfs measurements. As the soil structure classes used are very similar to an international classification (FAO, 1990), the derived relationships (class pedotransfer functions) could be widely applicable. A total of 49 unique combinations of primary and secondary structures were identified but the relationship between these structures and Kfs was poor. However, this relationship became clearer when the structures were grouped according to both the ped size and ped orientation. It improved further with the removal of data from horizons with significant amounts of vertically orientated angular stones or very coarse roots. Soils with vertically orientated peds larger than 50 mm had a geometric mean conductivity of 0.33 cm day−1 while those with fractures in both the horizontal and vertical planes had a geometric mean conductivity of 4.1 cm day−1. Soils with peds between 20 and 50 mm had a geometric mean conductivity of 17.9 cm day−1 and those with peds <20 mm had a geometric mean conductivity of 53.0 cm day−1. Those soils with only horizontally orientated structures proved to be anomalous in that the conductivity increased as ped size increased.
Simulating nitrate concentrations in water draining from a small arable catchment in England
Authors: Tuck G. , Matthews A.M. , Harris G.L. , Dailey A.G. , Armstrong A.C. , Addiscott T.M.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The catchment simulated comprises 57 hectares of heavy clay soil managed as six arable fields. Mole and pipe drains carry surplus water into two ditches, one feeding into the other. Their combined flow was passed through a flume with an automatic water sampler, samples from which were analysed for nitrate. Measurements of nitrate concentration made during periods of water flow from 1990 to 1993 were simulated using a model comprising sub‐models for leaching, mineralization, nitrogen uptake by crops and subsoil denitrification. The simulations were plotted against the measurements. For statistical evaluation, the correlation coefficient was used to assess the degree of association between the measurements and the simulations and the mean difference to assess the agreement. The correlation between the simulations and the measurements was significant in two of the three seasons, but the mean difference was significant in all three. However, taking all three seasons together gave a very highly significant correlation and a non‐significant mean difference.
Simple phosphorus saturation index to estimate risk of dissolved P in runoff from arable soils
Authors: Hughes S. , Reynolds B. , Bell S.A. , Gardner C.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. There is increasing evidence that phosphorus has been accumulating in the surface horizons of agricultural soils to the extent that some soils represent a potential diffuse source of pollution to surface waters. The relationships between equilibrium phosphorus concentration at zero sorption (EPC 0) of soil and a number of soil physicochemical variables were investigated in the surface layers of arable and grassland agricultural soils sampled from the Thame catchment, England. Soil EPC0 could be predicted from an equation including soil test (Olsen) P, soil phosphate sorption index (PSI) and organic matter content (OM) (R2=0.88; P<0.001) across a range of soil types and land use. The simple index Olsen P/PSI was found to be a good predictor of EPC0 (R2=0.77; P<0.001) and readily desorbable (0.02 m KCl extractable) P (R2=0.73; P<0.001) across a range of soil types under arable having soil organic matter contents of <10%.
Improvement of the physical fertility of a degraded Alfisol with planted and natural fallows under humid tropical conditions
Authors: Salako F.K. , Hauser S. , Babalola O. , Tian G.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Topsoil (0–15 cm) bulk density, aggregate stability, soil dispersibility, water retention and infiltration were measured between 1989 and 1996 on an Alfisol under rehabilitation in southwestern Nigeria. The planted leguminous species were Pueraria phaseoloides, Senna siamea, Leucaena leucocephala, Acacia leptocarpa and A. auriculiformis. Also, plots with natural fallow and maize/cassava intercropping were included. Level (minimum) and mound tillage with hoes was adopted for the cultivated areas under study after 4 and 6 year fallow periods. Under fallow, the soil bulk density decreased from1.56 to 1.11 t m73.The continuously cropped treatment (level tillage) had significantly higher bulk density than the fallowed subplots after 6 years. Mean soil penetrometer resistance ranged from 75 to 157 kPa for fallowed plots and from 192 to 295 kPa for the continuously cropped (level tillage) subplot. Surface soilwater contentswere similar for all the treatments during the soil strength measurements. Although soil aggregates were generally of low stability and not well formed, they were improved by fallowing.

Soil structural improvement by planted fallows was similar to that by natural fallow, but the trees were more promising for long‐term fallow (>6 years) than the herbaceous P. phaseoloides. However, the improvement in soil structure after 4 or 6 year fallow could not be maintained in subsequent cropping. Furthermore, the significant improvement in soil bulk density caused by A. auriculiformis and natural fallow was more rapidly lost on the cultivated subplots compared with other fallow treatments. Thus, soil structure recovery under a fallow does not imply a sustained improvement when stress is applied to this soil. Post‐fallow soil management options such as residue incorporation and tillage to ameliorate compaction or soil strength will be necessary to enhance the improvements by fallow species.
The use of urban organic wastes in the control of erosion in a semiarid Mediterranean soil
Authors: Ros M. , Garcia C. , Hernandez T.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A two year field experiment was carried out in a semiarid Mediterranean area in order to evaluate, the effect on soil erosion of adding different urban organic wastes: a stabilized municipal waste (compost), an unstabilized municipal waste, and an aerobic sewage sludge. All the treatments significantly reduced soil erosion, compared to the control soil. The soil amended with compost was the most effective treatment, reducing soil loss by 94% and runoff by 54%.
Soil nutrient changes due to land use changes in Northern China: a case study in Zunhua County, Hebei Province
Authors: Fu B.J. , Guo X.D. , Chen L.D. , Ma K.M. , Li J.R.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Since the 1980s, land use in rural areas of China has changed greatly as the result of political initiatives. These changes have caused soil nutrient changes which are examined in this paper for Zunhua County, northern China from 1980 to 1999. The areas of farmland, grassland, and paddy decreased greatly and were replaced by increases in forest and residential land. The soils under forest in 1999 transformed from farmland in 1980 increased in organic matter by 21%, total nitrogen by 18%, available nitrogen by 65%, available phosphorus by 17% and available potassium by 17%. Similarly, in the area which was converted from farmland in 1980 to grassland in 1999, soil organic matter, total nitrogen, available nitrogen, available phosphorus, and available potassium increased by 38%, 37%, 71%, 2% and 28%, respectively. Changes from farmland to forest and grassland not only changed land cover but also improved soil fertility and probably reduced soil nutrient losses.
Soil management for Alfisols in the semiarid tropics: erosion, enrichment ratios and runoff
Authors: Cogle A.L. , Rao K.P.C. , Yule D.F. , Smith G.D , George P.J. , Srinivasan S.T. , Jangawad L.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Continuous cultivation of soils of the semiarid tropics has led to significant land degradation. Soil erosion and nutrient loss caused by high runoff volumes have reduced crop yields and contributed to offsite damage. We compared a number of soil management practices (tillage, mulch and perennial/annual rotational based systems) for their potential to improve crop production and land resource protection in an Alfisol of the semiarid tropics of India. Runoff and soil erosion were monitored and surface soil and sediment were analysed for nitrogen and carbon to determine enrichment ratios. Amelioration of soils with organic additions (farmyard manure, rice straw) or rotating perennial pasture with annual crops increased soil carbon and nitrogen contents and reduced runoff, soil erosion and nutrient loss. Soil erosion totalled less than 7 t ha–1, but enrichment ratios were often greater than 2 resulting in up to 27 kg N ha–1 and 178 kg C ha–1 being lost in sediment. Up to an extra 250 mm of water per year infiltrated the soil with organic additions and was available for crop water use or percolation to groundwater. The results show that there are good opportunities for reducing degradation and increasing productivity on farms.
Using dynamic simulation models and the ‘Dot‐to‐Dot’ method to determine the optimum sampling times in field trials
Authors: Smith J.U. , Smith P. , Coleman K. , Hargreaves P.R. , Macdonald A.J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Dynamic simulation models are increasingly used in environmental and agricultural science. Here we present a method that allows models to be used to determine optimum timing of sampling for field trials. The model is used to decide when to concentrate sampling effort before the field trial begins. The model chosen to design sampling strategy should include an appropriately sensitive description of all processes that influence measurements significantly. The simulation is run, using predicted weather data, to generate the full time series before the trial begins. Every point in the simulation is considered initially to be a potential sampling point. The potential error due to not including a measurement at each point is calculated using the ‘dot‐to‐dot’ method of b10Smith et al. (2002) by omitting simulated values consecutively. The calculated potential error provides a measure of the priority that should be given to sampling at each point. Where the error introduced by omitting the simulated value exceeds an acceptable error, the value at the last discernible time step should be measured so that all statistically significant changes in the system can be observed. The output from the calculation is a plan of sampling times needed to capture all statistically significant events that are likely to occur over the course of the trial.
A review of farm‐scale nutrient budgets for organic farms as a tool for management of soil fertility
Authors: Watson C.A. , Bengtsson H. , Ebbesvik M. , Løes A‐K. , Myrbeck A. , Salomon E. , Schroder J. , Stockdale E.A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. On organic farms, where the importation of materials to build/maintain soil fertility is restricted, it is important that a balance between inputs and outputs of nutrients is achieved to ensure both short‐term productivity and long‐term sustainability. This paper considers different approaches to nutrient budgeting on organic farms and evaluates the sources of bias in the measurements and/or estimates of the nutrient inputs and outputs. The paper collates 88 nutrient budgets compiled at the farm scale in nine temperate countries. All the nitrogen (N) budgets showed an N surplus (average 83.2 kg N ha–1 yr–1). The efficiency of N use, defined as outputs/inputs, was highest (0.9) and lowest (0.2) in arable and beef systems respectively. The phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) budgets showed both surpluses and deficits (average 3.6 kg P ha–1 yr–1, 14.2 kg K ha–1 yr–1) with horticultural systems showing large surpluses resulting from purchased manure. The estimation of N fixation and quantities of nutrients in purchased manures may introduce significant errors in nutrient budgets. Overall, the data illustrate the diversity of management systems in place on organic farms, and suggest that used together with soil analysis, nutrient budgets are a useful tool for improving the long‐term sustainability of organic systems.
Optimizing farmyard manure utilization by varying the application time and tillage strategy
Authors: Hansen E.M. , Thomsen I.K. , Hansen M.N.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Two field experiments were carried from 1999 to 2001 to assess the effectiveness of autumn, winter and spring application of straw‐based farmyard manure (FYM). The soil was a sandy loam containing 106 g clay kg−1 situated in the temperate coastal climate of Denmark. The FYM was applied manually to experimental plots at a target rate of 300 kg N ha−1. The manure was incorporated by three initial tillage strategies (harrowing, rotavating or no‐tillage) prior to ploughing. All combinations of tillage strategies were also carried out without manure application. Spring barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) was grown, followed by ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.). The results suggest that, as far as circumstances permit, FYM should be applied in spring to achieve the optimum use of nitrogen in the manure. Further, yield and nitrogen uptake did not benefit from harrowing or rotavating the manure before ploughing. When manure was not applied, soil tillage prior to ploughing did not significantly affect grain yield or nitrogen uptake.
Monitoring and verification of soil carbon changes under Article 3.4 of the Kyoto Protocol
Authors: Smith P.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. The Marrakech Accords allow biospheric carbon sinks and sources to be included in attempts to meet emission reduction targets for the first commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol. Forest management, cropland management, grazing land management and re‐vegetation are allowable activities under Article 3.4 of the Kyoto Protocol. Soil carbon sinks and sources can therefore be included under these activities. The Kyoto Protocol states that sinks and sources of carbon should be accounted for ‘taking into account uncertainties, transparency in reporting, verifiability’. At its most stringent, verifiability would entail the sampling of each geo‐referenced piece of land subject to an Article 3.4 activity at the beginning and end of a commitment period, using a sampling regime that gives adequate statistical power. Soil and vegetation samples and records would be archived and the data from each piece of land aggregated to produce a national figure. Separate methods would be required to deliver a second set of independent verification data. Such an undertaking at the national level would be prohibitively expensive. At its least stringent, verifiability would entail the reporting of areas under a given practice (without geo‐referencing) and the use of default values for a carbon stock change for each practice, to infer a change for all areas under that practice. A definition of verifiability between these extremes would allow simple methods, such as those derived from IPCC default values for CO2 fluxes from soil, to be used for estimating changes in soil carbon. These may enable low‐level verifiability to be achieved by most parties by the beginning of the first commitment period (2008–2012).
Effects of deer grazing and fence‐line pacing on water and soil quality
Authors: McDowell R.W. , Drewry J.J. , Paton R.J.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. We studied the effects of red deer grazing and fence‐line pacing on soil losses of contaminants (suspended sediment, Escherichia coli, phosphorus) and nitrogen species (ammonia, nitrate) via overland flow and soil physical properties (macroporosity, bulk density, saturated hydraulic conductivity, Ksat) soon after (1 day) and 6 weeks after grazing on a Pallic pastoral soil in southern New Zealand. Fence‐line pacing decreased the soil volume occupied by water, macroporosity and Ksat, while increasing suspended sediment (to 0.226 g 100 mL−1), total P (to 2.0 mg L−1), mainly as particulate P (up to 90% of total P), and E. coli (to 3.52 log10 c.f.u. 100 mL−1) concentrations in overland flow at 1 day after grazing compared with soils from the rest of the paddock (0.148 g 100 mL−1, 0.86 mg L−1 and 2.86 log10 c.f.u. 100 mL−1, respectively). Although concentrations in overland flow were less at 6 weeks after grazing than at 1 day after grazing, losses of P, especially in fence‐line soils, were still above recommended limits for surface water quality. Compared to P, losses of N species would be unlikely to have a significant impact on downstream water quality. Management strategies should be directed towards minimizing the occurrence of fence‐line pacing to prevent contaminant loss and maintain water and soil quality.
A lysimeter experiment to investigate the effect of surface sealing on hydrology and pesticide loss from the reconstructed profile of a clay soil. 1. Hydrological characteristics
Authors: Heppell C.M. , Chapman A.S. , Bidwell V.J. , Forrester G. , Kilfeather A.A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. A laboratory experiment was designed to assess the impact of surface seal development on the hydrological response of a clay soil. The influence of surface sealing on vertical macropore flow and lateral throughflow was of particular interest. The extent and development of the surface seal in repacked lysimeters was designed to match that recorded over two growing seasons at a clay field site in Essex, and was not extensive enough to reduce significantly the infiltration capacity of the soil. Consequently, the hydrological response of the lysimeters was similar under sealed and unsealed conditions, with a more rapid wetting response under sealed conditions being attributed to the higher soil moisture content required to create the surface seal. Macropore flow was initiated at the A/B soil boundary of the lysimeters, in response to the development of a saturated layer. The rate of macropore and throughflow in the soil was dictated by rainfall intensity at the soil surface as this controlled the depth of water in the perched water table. Simulation of the tensiometer response in the lysimeters demonstrated that it was possible to attribute the rapid movement of water through the A horizon to water displacement processes alone, without recourse to preferential flow processes.
Changes in soil quality due to introduction of broad‐leaf trees into clear‐felled Chinese fir forest in the mid‐subtropics of China
Authors: Huang Y. , Wang S.L. , Feng Z.W. , Ouyang Z.Y. , Wang X.K. , Feng Z.Z.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. After clear‐felling of a first generation Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata) forest, mixed stands of Chinese fir and Michelia macclurei (a broadleaf tree) (MCM), pure M. macclurei stands (PMS) and pure Chinese fir stands (PCS) were established in 1983. The effects on soil were evaluated 20 years after planting by measuring physicochemical, microbiological and biochemical parameters. Both broadleaf monoculture and mixtures of broadleaf and conifer exerted a favourable effect on soil fertility. A soil quality index (SQI) decreased in the order: PMS (0.62) > MCM (0.57) > PCS (0.41). Improvement in soil quality, enhanced biological activity and forest productivity demonstrated that mixed stands are an effective measure to maintain sustainable forest productivity, as well as to control soil degradation under successive stands of Chinese fir. In addition, since the microbiological and biochemical parameters measured were sensitive to the forest management, they may be potential indicators for assessing the sustainability of different management systems. The results also showed that total organic carbon, cation exchange capacity and microbial biomass carbon are effective indicators of the improvement or deterioration of soil quality under forest.
Application of remediation techniques for immobilization of metals in soils contaminated by a pyrite tailing spill in Spain
Authors: Aguilar J. , Bouza P. , Dorronsoro C. , Fernández E. , Fernández J. , García I. , Martín F. , Simón M.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. Remediation techniques for soil pollution have been studied in the aftermath of a tailing spill from a pyrite‐mine holding pond in Aznalcóllar (southwest Spain). Given the extent of the accident and the characteristics of the affected area, we conclude that, after the removal of the tailings, the only feasible remediation measure involves chemical immobilization of the pollutants. The best treatment tested proved to be liming in combination with amendment materials such as soils rich in iron oxides and clay. Monitoring for 3 years has demonstrated that the system is effective for reducing the solubility of the most mobile forms of the main pollutant elements, although further monitoring is recommended.
Scaling issues in sustainable management of nutrient losses
Authors: Shirmohammadi A. , Djodjic F. , Bergström L.
Published: August 2010

Abstract. To establish strategies for sustainable nutrient management, the priority of each identified element for different user groups and the issue of data transferability from one scale to the next need to be addressed. This is important to avoid developing policies and strategies using inaccurate data. This paper provides a thorough background on such issues and provides data from specific case studies to reflect the impact of scale on the usability and transferability of data. These data show that using information obtained in a laboratory setting for larger scales can generate major errors. Data are also provided regarding the spatial variability in total N and total P measured at different sub‐watersheds within a large watershed. Results from this case study indicate that there is a definite spatial variability in N and P loadings, which makes it difficult to transfer and extrapolate from data measured at one sub‐watershed to the entire watershed. Therefore, it can be concluded that using either measured or simulated data obtained at a small scale to respond to questions for larger scales may be erroneous. Such difficulty may be due to the inherent spatial variability in soils, nutrients, biology and other features of the landscape.
Activation of PDE2 and PDE5 by specific GAF ligands: delayed activation of PDE5
Authors: Jäger Ronald , Schwede Frank , Genieser Hans‐Gottfried , Koesling Doris , Russwurm Michael
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE By controlling intracellular cyclic nucleotide levels, phosphodiesterases (PDE) serve important functions within various signalling pathways. The PDE2 and PDE5 families are allosterically activated by their substrate cGMP via regulatory so‐called GAF domains. Here, we set out to identify synthetic ligands for the GAF domains of PDE2 and PDE5.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Using fluorophore‐tagged, isolated GAF domains of PDE2 and PDE5, promising cGMP analogues were selected. Subsequently, the effects of these analogues on the enzymatic activity of PDE2 and PDE5 were analysed.

KEY RESULTS The PDE2 ligands identified, 5,6‐DM‐cBIMP and 5,6‐DCl‐cBIMP, caused pronounced, up to 40‐fold increases of the cAMP‐ and cGMP‐hydrolysing activities of PDE2. The ligand for the GAF domains of PDE5, 8‐Br‐cGMP, elicited a 20‐fold GAF‐dependent activation and moreover revealed a time‐dependent increase in PDE5 activity that occurred independently of a GAF ligand. Although GAF‐dependent PDE5 activation was fast at high ligand concentrations, it was slow at physiologically relevant cGMP concentrations; PDE5 reached its final catalytic rates at 1 µM cGMP after approximately 10 min.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS We conclude that the delayed activation of PDE5 is required to shape biphasic, spike‐like cGMP signals. Phosphorylation of PDE5 further enhances activity and conserves PDE5 activation, thereby enabling PDE5 to act as a molecular memory balancing cGMP responses to nitric oxide or natriuretic peptide signals.
The Rise of World History Studies in Twentieth‐Century China
Authors: Xu Luo
Published: August 2010

The essay is a brief survey of the rise of world history studies in China. It traces the origin of the political and academic interest in the world outside of China back to the mid‐nineteenth century, and discusses the growth and changes in the institution, curriculum, and ideology in China’s world history field in the twentieth century and the early years of the twenty‐first century. The emphasis of the essay is on the development of world history studies during the six decades of the People’s Republic of China after 1949, first under Soviet influence, and then under Western influence. It also addresses Chinese historians’ persistent effort to search for their own identity and build a Chinese system of world history studies.
Budd–Chiari syndrome: illustrated review of current management
Authors: Horton John D. , San Miguel Francisco L. , Ortiz Jorge A.
Published: August 2010

Budd–Chiari syndrome (BCS) is characterized by hepatic venous outflow obstruction at any level from the small hepatic veins to the atriocaval junction. BCS is a complex disease with a wide spectrum of aetiologies and presentations. This article reviews the current literature with respect to presentation, management and prognosis of the disease. Medical, interventional and surgical management of BCS is discussed. Particular attention is paid to interventional and surgical aspects of management. The review is augmented by images, which provide a clinical corollary to the text.
Induction of matrix metalloproteinase‐1 gene transcription by tumour necrosis factor α via the p50/p50 homodimer of nuclear factor‐κ B in activated human hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Hozawa Shigenari , Nakamura Tetsuya , Nakano Masaru , Adachi Masayuki , Tanaka Hirotoshi , Takahashi Yoko , Tetsuya Mine , Miyata Naoteru , Soma Hiromitsu , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: August 2010

Background/Aims: Liver injury results in the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which in turn produce matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) in response to pro‐inflammatory cytokines for tissue remodelling. This study explored the transcriptional induction of the MMP‐1 gene by tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) in HSCs.

Methods: The LI90 human HSC line was used in the present study. Gelatin zymography, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, Northern blotting and gene promoter–reporter assays were used to analyse the induction of MMP‐1 protein, mRNA expression and gene transcription respectively. Deletional or site‐directed mutations were introduced into the promoter region and transiently transfected into LI90 cells to determine the cis‐acting elements necessary for TNF‐α inducibility. Gel shift mobility assays were used to determine the transcriptional factors involved in the TNF‐α responsiveness.

Results: TNF‐α upregulated MMP‐1 protein and mRNA expression in a dose‐dependent manner. A time–course experiment revealed a rapid induction of MMP‐1 mRNA expression after TNF‐α treatment. Mutation in a putative nuclear factor (NF)‐κB‐binding site at −2541 bp almost completely abolished the TNF‐α response to MMP‐1 gene‐promoter activity, suggesting transcriptional regulation of MMP‐1 expression by TNF‐α via this site. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and supershift assays indicated that this transcriptional regulation was regulated via the p50/p50 homodimer of NF‐κB.

Conclusions: MMP‐1 gene expression might be induced by TNF‐α via the p50/p50 homodimer of NF‐κB in activated human HSCs.
High‐temperature Winch and Paddle Dyeing of Polyester Fabrics and Garments
Authors: SMITH F. R.
Published: August 2010

Full‐scale trials with a modified Mortensen winch machine have shown that knitted polyester fabric can be dyed successfully at 125–130°C. The results are better than those obtained by dyeing at atmospheric pressure and the cost is less. Similar improvements have been obtained with knitted polyester garments dyed at high temperature in a Callebaut‐De Blicquy Pan‐o‐Mat machine.
New Ultraviolet Absorbers for Improving the Stability of Cotton Cellulose to Light
Authors: Head F. S. H. , Lund G.
Published: August 2010

The effect of certain new cellulose‐reactive ultraviolet absorbers on the stability of cotton cellulose to light is described. Exposure to the radiation of fading lamps and to sunlight at various sites has shown that the absorbers provide protection from light, but that the effect is not sufficiently long‐lived in tropical climates. The mechanism of degradation of cotton in very hot climates appears to differ from that in more temperate regions. The accelerated phototendering of cotton caused by certain colourless rotproofing agents can be decreased by using these absorbers, but the phototendering produced by vat dyes is not greatly affected.
A Study of the Kinetics of Dye Transfer in the Rub‐fastness Testing of a Vat Dye
Authors: Suganuma Keiko , Kuno Hiroshi
Published: August 2010

†Faculty of Science and Technology Keio University Hiyoshi Yokohama Japan

The kinetics of the crocking (rub fastness) behaviour of a vat dye ha ve been investigated in dry and wet conditions. It is suggested that the dye removal process can be treated as a reversible first‐order reaction. A measure of the kinetic properties of the rubbing process can be given by the rate constant (k,j and/or the equilibrium constant (K) of the reaction. The effects of the force applied during rubbing on these constants were also studied.
How to sleep at night……a guide to internal quality auditing
Authors: Newland Keith
Published: August 2010

A quality system cannot really work unless it includes an effective means of internal quality auditing. It cannot be stressed enough that until you routinely check and improve your quality system, you haven't really started. Having decided to implement an internal quality audit system you need to do the job well; after all, the word ‘quality’ is included!
The use of sodium thiocyanate for the salting‐out of water‐soluble dyes
Authors: Barnes A R
Published: August 2010

During a recent attempt to produce solid forms of water‐soluble, sulphonated reactive dye samples with low electrolyte content, it was found that salting‐out of such dyes with sodium thiocyanate dihydrate and subsequent washing with acetone gave a product with very low content of inorganic salts. A readily soluble solid of high tinctorial strength was produced.
Analgesic Techniques in Minor Painful Procedures in Neonatal Units: A Survey in Northern Italy
Authors: Codipietro Luigi , Bailo Elena , Nangeroni Marco , Ponzone Alberto , Grazia Giuseppe
Published: August 2010

Introduction:  The aim of this survey was to evaluate the current practice regarding pain assessment and pain management strategies adopted in commonly performed minor painful procedures in Northern Italian Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs).

Methods:  A multicenter survey was conducted between 2008 and 2009 in 35 NICUs. The first part of the survey form covered pain assessment tools, the timing of analgesics, and the availability of written guidelines. A second section evaluated the analgesic strategies adopted in commonly performed painful procedures. The listed analgesic procedures were as follows: oral sweet solutions alone, non‐nutritive sucking (NNS) alone, a combination of sweet solutions and NNS, breast‐feeding where available, and topical anesthetics.

Results:  Completed questionnaires were returned from 30 neonatal units (85.7% response rate). Ten of the 30 NICUs reported using pain assessment tools for minor invasive procedures. Neonatal Infant Pain Scale was the most frequently used pain scale (60%). Twenty neonatal units had written guidelines directing pain management practices. The most frequently used procedures were pacifiers alone (69%), followed by sweet‐tasting solutions (58%). A 5% glucose solution was the most frequently utilized sweet‐tasting solution (76.7%). A minority of NICUs (16.7%) administered 12% sucrose solutions for analgesia and the application of topical anesthetics was found in 27% of NICUs while breast‐feeding was performed in 7% of NICUs.

Discussion:  This study found a low adherence to national and international guidelines for analgesia in minor procedures: the underuse of neonatal pain scales (33%), sucrose solution administration before heel lance (23.3%), topical anesthetics before venipuncture, or other analgesic techniques. The presence of written pain control guidelines in these regions of Northern Italy increased in recent years (from 25% to 66%).
The Safety of Dexamethasone and Hydroxyethyl Starch in the Multiply Leukapheresed Donor
Authors: Mishler J. M. , Moser A. M. , Carter J. B.
Published: August 2010

A total of 23 leukaphereses were performed on five normal, healthy donors for the purpose of providing granulocyte transfusions to septic leukemia patients with granulocytopenia. Dexamethasone 7.25 to 7.50 mg was given orally 10 to 12 hours prior to each donation, and an average of 304 ml of hydroxyethyl starch (HES) was given intravenously during each procedure. During the period of observation for each donor, there was no significant change of total leukocyte and platelet counts, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, LDH, SCOT, creatinine, BUN, and uric acid determinations. Changes in the concentrations of serum protein, albumin, cholesterol, and glucose were thought to be due to hemodilution. Partial thromboplastin and prothrombin times remained within normal limits following collection procedures. Hemoglobin levels decreased transiently following the first three leukaphereses in all donors, but fell progressively to 11.8 gm/dl in one donor undergoing seven procedures in a 35‐day period. Dexamethasone and HES in these doses can be given safely to multiply leukapheresed donors.
Chloramphenicol Antibody Causing Interference in Antibody Detection and Identification Tests
Authors: Beattie K. M. , Ferguson S. J. , Burnie K. L. , Barr R. M. , Urbaniak S. T. , Atherton P. J.
Published: August 2010

Investigation of the serum of three patients with positive antibody detection tests demonstrated the cause in each to be an antibody against chloramphenicol, a bacteriostatic agent used in commercial red blood cell reagents. Washing of these red cells prior to use prevented agglutination. All three examples of anti‐chloramphenicol antibody were IgM and were in low titer when tested at room temperature and 37 C in saline. Two of the antibodies bound complement. The possibility of an antibody to an ingredient of the commercial preservative solution should be considered if problems are encountered in tests with unwashed commercial red blood cell reagents.
Some Components of the Kinin System in Cohn's Unheated Human Plasma Proteins
Authors: Morichi S. , Izaka K.
Published: August 2010

The presence of a kininase and a kininogenase was demonstrated in unheated human plasma proteins. The kininase was found to inactivate synthetic brady kinin and a kinin‐like substance released from a kininogen‐like material in unheated plasma proteins by human urinary kallikrein. It was heat‐labile and inhibited by EDTA, HgCl2 and 1,10‐phenanthroline. This enzyme was estimated to be kininase I from its inhibition pattern. Inactivation of the kininase revealed the presence of a kininogenase. Five per cent heat‐treated human plasma protein solution has been demonstrated to have no kininase activity but to contain the kinin‐like substance. A mechanism for the formation of the kinin‐like substance in 5 per cent heat‐treated plasma protein solution was discussed in terms of these kinin forming components present in the unheated plasma proteins.
An Evaluation of Antiglobulin Control Cells: Inability to Detect Errors in the Antiglobulin Test
Authors: Wenz B. , Dugan E. P.
Published: August 2010

Hemagglutination of antiglobulin control cells from several manufacturers, as well as cells sensitized in our own laboratory, was demonstrated in the presence of bovine albumin, normal human serum, and neutralized anti‐human serum. Macroscopic hemagglutination was inconsistently enhanced by the addition of active anti‐human serum. This protean reactivity of the reagent cells invalidates any conclusion derived from a positive antiglobulin control.
Book Review
Authors: Schorr Julian B.
Published: August 2010

Blood Transfusion in Clinical Medicine. P. L. Mollison
Book Review
Authors: Mallory Delores
Published: August 2010

Blood Group Antigens and Antibodies. Marjory Stroup and Margaret Treacy.
Book Review
Authors: Nusbacher Jacob
Published: August 2010

Hematopoietic Growth Factors in Transfusion Medicine. J. Spivak, D. Dooley, eds.
False‐positive alarms for bacterial screening of platelet concentrates with BacT/ALERT new‐generation plastic bottles: a multicenter pilot study
Authors:   GERMS Group
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND: The microbial detection system BacT/ALERT (bioMérieux) is widely used to monitor bacterial contamination of platelet concentrates (PCs). Recently, the manufacturer introduced polycarbonate culture bottles and a modified pH‐sensitive liquid emulsion sensor as microbial growth indicator. This reconfigured assay was investigated in a routine setting.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In each of eight transfusion centers, samples from 500 consecutive PCs were monitored for 1 week. For all PCs with a positive BacT/ALERT signal, retained samples and, if available, original PC containers and concomitant red blood cell concentrates were analyzed independently. Initially BacT/ALERT‐positive PCs without bacterial identification in any sample were defined as false‐positive. BacT/ALERT‐positive PCs with bacteria in the first sample only were called potentially positive. PCs with bacteria in the first sample and the same strain in at least one additional sample were accepted as positive.

RESULTS: Five PCs (0.13%) were positive, 9 PCs (0.23%) were potentially positive, and 35 PCs (0.9%) were false‐positive. The rate of false‐positive BacT/ALERT results varied substantially between centers (<0.2%‐3.2%). Tracings from false‐positive cultures lacked an exponential increase of the signal during incubation. Most of these false‐positives were due to malfunctioning cells in various BacT/ALERT incubation units.

CONCLUSION: Careful assessment of individual tracings of samples with positive signals helps to identify malfunctioning incubation units. Their early shutdown or replacement minimizes the high rate of unrectifiable product rejects attributed to false‐positive alarms and avoids unnecessary concern of doctors and patients after conversion to a reconfigured BacT/ALERT assay.
Incidence of Wra antigen and anti‐Wra in a Spanish population
Authors: Arriaga Francisco , Llopis Francisco , De La Rubia Javier , Carpio Nelly , Moscardó Jesús , Marty María L.
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND: This study reports the incidence of Wra antigen and anti‐Wra in Valencia, Spain.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: The incidence of the Wra antigen in 110,000 healthy blood donors was estimated. Likewise, the incidence of anti‐Wra was analyzed in a population consisting of 730 healthy blood donors, 356 pregnant women, and 581 patients who received transfusions from the area of Valencia, Spain.

RESULTS: The incidence of Wra antigen was 1 in 785. Overall, anti‐Wra was found in 59 samples: 20 healthy blood donors (1/37), 18 pregnant women (1/20), and 21 patients who received transfusions (1/28). The most frequent immunoglobulin class of anti‐Wra in healthy blood donors was immunoglobulin M, either alone (8 cases) or plus immunoglobulin G (IgG; 8 cases); the IgG1 and IgG3 were the IgG subclasses most frequently detected in pregnant women (12 cases) and in patients who received transfusions (12 cases). Only 51 percent of the anti‐Wra appeared to have the potential to be clinically significant.

CONCLUSION: These data show that the incidence of Wra antigen and anti‐Wra among the population from Valencia is similar to that reported in other European areas and suggest that the development of anti‐Wra is facilitated by the presence of a hyperactive immune system. The clinical relevance of anti‐Wra is limited, however.
High‐level long‐term white blood cell microchimerism after transfusion of leukoreduced blood components to patients resuscitated after severe traumatic injury
Authors: Lee Tzong‐Hae , Paglieroni Teresa , Utter Garth H. , Chafets Daniel , Gosselin Robert C. , Reed William , Owings John T. , Holland Paul V. , Busch Michael P.
Published: August 2010

BACKGROUND: Long‐term white blood cell (WBC) microchimerism (MC), of at least 2 years, has been reported in trauma patients receiving fresh nonleukoreduced (non‐LR) blood. It is unknown, however, whether this occurs with LR blood products that are nearly devoid of WBCs. Twenty‐seven patients transfused with LR and non‐LR blood products were studied after severe traumatic injury. A secondary aim was to explore donor‐recipient mixed lymphocyte reactivity in vitro.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: To quantify MC, allele‐specific real‐time polymerase chain reaction assays were developed targeting HLA Class II sequence polymorphisms. Extensive validation showed that these assays reliably detect a single copy of target sequence in a complex allogeneic background without false positivity.

RESULTS: At a median follow‐up of 26 months (range, 24‐39 months), long‐term MC was observed in 3 of 20 patients (15%) who received non‐LR blood products and 2 of 7 (29%) who received LR blood products. The maximum MC ranged from 0.40 to 4.90 percent of circulating WBCs and appeared, by Class II genotype analysis, to be attributable to a single donor.

CONCLUSION: It is concluded that robust levels of long‐term MC, apparently traceable to a single donor, occur at similar frequency despite leukoreduction of transfused blood products. Exploratory analysis of donor‐recipient mixed lymphocyte reactivity suggests that long‐term MC may require a state of bidirectional tolerance before transfusion.
Increased Potassium Permeability Induced In Vitro by Menadione in Normal Human Red Cells
Authors: Vettore Luciano , de Matteis Maria Concetta , Falezza Gian Carlo
Published: August 2010

Normal red blood cells, preincubated for 75 min with 1.15 mM menadione sodium bisulfite lose potassium and water on subsequent incubation at 37° C for 24 h without menadione.

The potassium loss is increased by addition of calcium and prevented by addition of glucose.

Since normal red cells treated with menadione behave like untreated hypochromic cells, both from β‐thalassaemia or iron deficiency anaemia in respect to membrane permeability to potassium, it may be supposed that menadione induces in normal red cells an abnormality similar to that naturally occurring in hypochromic cells.
Immunologic Similarities of Thrombopoietin from Different Sources
Authors: McDonald T. P. , Cottrell Marilyn , Nolan Chris , Walasek Otto
Published: August 2010

Thrombopoietin (TSF) has been detected in kidney cell culture media and human urine fractions by both a bioassay and an immunoassay using antisera raised against TSF‐rich kidney cell culture medium and human urinary thrombopoietin. Both antisera cross‐reacted with the 2 sources of TSF and gave essentially the same results in the HAI assay, a finding that suggests similarities in immunologic determinants of these 2 thrombopoietin preparations.
PREVENTION OF CLOSURE OF AORTO‐CORONARY VENOUS BYPASS GRAFTS
Authors: DALE J.
Published: August 2010

Aorto‐coronary saphenous vein bypass graft implantation has led to a considerable relief of angina in a great majority of patients. Their functional capacity has been increased, and life possibly prolonged. During the postoperative period approximately ten per cent of the grafts occlude because of thrombosis, and later 2–3 per cent occlude per year. The angina returns in some patients, which is related either to graft closure or to progression of arteriosclerotic disease in the coronary arteries. A randomized clinical study has therefore been started in 142 patients in order to prevent graft closure. Two to three days after operation, one group of 72 receive acefylsalicylic acid, one gm. daily, and anticoagulants, while the 70 patients in the control group receive no antithrombotic drugs, and are asked to avoid antiinflammatory agents. After 18 to 24 months, they are admitted for follow‐up, including recatheterization with selective angiography of coronary arteries or grafts. The effect of therapy will be assessed from graft patency alone.
Long Term Therapy of Pernicious Anaemia with the Depot Cobalamin Preparation Betolvex®
Authors: Bastrup‐Madsen Poul , Helleberg‐Rasmussen I. , Nørregaard Svend , Halver Bent , Hansen Tage
Published: August 2010

The value of a depot cobalamin preparation Betolvex® (cyanocobalamin‐tannin complex suspended in a sesame‐oil aluminium‐monostearate gel) in the maintenance therapy of pernicious anaemia was investigated in 120 patients followed up for between 8 and 15 years. Complete haematological remission was maintained in all patients, and none developed B12 neuropathy after the start of treatment. No side‐effects were observed. The mean values of S‐cobalamin were above the reference limits when 1 mg cobalamin was given every 2 months, and high within the reference limits when given at 3 monthly intervals. The cobalamin content in the liver tissue in 2 patients who had received 1 mg cobalamin every 3 months for 6 years revealed normal values. Thus, 1 mg of the depot cobalamin preparation given at intervals of 3 months should provide adequate maintenance therapy in pernicious anaemia.
Comparison of stainable iron in bone marrow smears and needle marrow biopsies
Authors: EIKA C. , WISLØFF F. , SOLBERG L.Aa.
Published: August 2010

In 111 patients, the amount of stainable iron was compared in bone marrow smears and marrow needle biopsies. The correlation between the two methods was good (r = 0,73, p < 0,001), but with a higher frequency of false negative results in the marrow biopsies (5,4%) than the marrow smears (1,8%). As both methods may occasionally fail, it may be desirable to perform iron staining in both smears and biopsies. If it is necessary to choose one of the methods, we would recommend bone marrow smears for the routine determination of stainable marrow iron stores.
C3b Receptor‐Negative Peripheral Blood Neutrophils
Authors: Scott C. S. , Bynoe A. G. , Hough D. , Roberts B. E.
Published: August 2010

Expression of peripheral blood neutrophil (PBN) C3b receptors, as assessed by rosette formation with C3b‐coated ox erythrocytes, was examined and compared with neutrophil alkaline phosphatase (NAP) activities in both normal and haematologically abnormal conditions. The results indicate that a small percentage of normal PBN are apparently C3b receptor‐negative and that these neutrophils do not appear to differ with respect to age from those with detectable C3b receptors. Examination of PBN C3b receptors from 154 cases of various haematological disorders revealed a significant proportion of cases with increased numbers of C3b receptor‐negative neutrophils. These abnormalities did not appear to be related to peripheral leucocyte counts, NAP activities or serum lysozyme concentrations and it is suggested that the increased numbers of C3b receptor‐negative PBN may be related to intravascular factors such as immune complexes.
Pitted erythrocytes in splenectomized subjects with congenital spherocytosis and in subjects splenectomized for other reasons
Authors: Kvinesdal Birgit Bak , Jensen Mogens Krogh
Published: August 2010

Pitted erythrocytes counts are used in the quantitative assessment of functional hyposplenism and in the prediction of recurrence of splenic function in splenectomized subjects. Pitted erythrocyte counts were investigated in 16 patients splenectomized for hereditary spherocytosis, in 21 patients splenectomized for other reasons and in 23 healthy controls. In both groups of splenectomized patients the pitted erythrocyte counts were equally increased compared with the healthy controls.