bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probable causes of increasing brucellosis in free‐ranging elk of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
Authors: Cross P. C. , Cole E. K. , Dobson A. P. , Edwards W. H. , Hamlin K. L. , Luikart G. , Middleton A. D. , Scurlock B. M. , White P. J.
Published: February 2010

While many wildlife species are threatened, some populations have recovered from previous overexploitation, and data linking these population increases with disease dynamics are limited. We present data suggesting that free‐ranging elk (Cervus elaphus) are a maintenance host for Brucella abortus in new areas of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). Brucellosis seroprevalence in free‐ranging elk increased from 0–7% in 1991–1992 to 8–20% in 2006–2007 in four of six herd units around the GYE. These levels of brucellosis are comparable to some herd units where elk are artificially aggregated on supplemental feeding grounds. There are several possible mechanisms for this increase that we evaluated using statistical and population modeling approaches. Simulations of an age‐structured population model suggest that the observed levels of seroprevalence are unlikely to be sustained by dispersal from supplemental feeding areas with relatively high seroprevalence or an older age structure. Increases in brucellosis seroprevalence and the total elk population size in areas with feeding grounds have not been statistically detectable. Meanwhile, the rate of seroprevalence increase outside the feeding grounds was related to the population size and density of each herd unit. Therefore, the data suggest that enhanced elk‐to‐elk transmission in free‐ranging populations may be occurring due to larger winter elk aggregations. Elk populations inside and outside of the GYE that traditionally did not maintain brucellosis may now be at risk due to recent population increases. In particular, some neighboring populations of Montana elk were 5–9 times larger in 2007 than in the 1970s, with some aggregations comparable to the Wyoming feeding‐ground populations. Addressing the unintended consequences of these increasing populations is complicated by limited hunter access to private lands, which places many ungulate populations out of administrative control. Agency–landowner hunting access partnerships and the protection of large predators are two management strategies that may be used to target high ungulate densities in private refuges and reduce the current and future burden of disease.
Tree cover and biomass increase in a southern African savanna despite growing elephant population
Authors: Kalwij J. M. , de Boer W. F. , Mucina L. , Prins H. H. T. , Skarpe C. , Winterbach C.
Published: February 2010

The growing elephant populations in many parts of southern Africa raise concerns of a detrimental loss of trees, resulting in overall reduction of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Elephant distribution and density can be steered through artificial waterpoints (AWPs). However, this leaves resident vegetation no relief during dry seasons. We studied how the introduction of eight AWPs in 1996 affected the spatiotemporal tree‐structure dynamics in central Chobe National Park, an unfenced savanna area in northern Botswana with a dry‐season elephant density of ~3.34 individuals per square kilometer. We hypothesized that the impact of these AWPs amplified over time and expanded in space, resulting in a decrease in average tree density, tree height, and canopy volume. We measured height and canopy dimensions of all woody plants around eight artificial and two seasonal waterpoints for 172 plots in 1997, 2000, and 2008. Plots, consisting of 50 × 2 m transects for small trees (0.20–3.00 m tall) nested within 50 × 20 m transects for large trees (≥3.0 m tall), were located at 100, 500, 1000, 2000, and 5000 m distance classes. A repeated‐measures mixed‐effect model showed that tree density, cover, and volume had increased over time throughout the area, caused by a combination of an increase of trees in lower size classes and a decrease in larger size classes. Our results indicate that the decrease of large trees can be attributed to a growing elephant population. Decrease or loss of particular tree size classes may have been caused by a loss of browser‐preferred species while facilitating the competitiveness of less‐preferred species. In spite of 12 years of artificial water supply and an annual elephant population growth of 6%, we found no evidence that the eight AWPs had a negative effect on tree biomass or tree structure. The decreasing large‐tree component could be a remainder of a depleted but currently restoring elephant population.
An alternative approach for quantifying climate regulation by ecosystems
Authors: West Paul C , Narisma Gemma T , Barford Carol C , Kucharik Christopher J , Foley Jonathan A
Published: February 2010

Ecosystems provide multiple benefits to people, including climate regulation. Previous efforts to quantify this ecosystem service have been either largely conceptual or based on complex atmospheric models. Here, we review previous research on this topic and propose a new and simple analytical approach for estimating the physical regulation of climate by ecosystems. The proposed metric estimates how land‐cover change affects the loading of heat and moisture into the atmosphere, while also accounting for the relative contribution of wind‐transported heat and moisture. Although feedback dynamics between land, atmosphere, and oceans are not modeled, the metric compares well with previous studies for several regions. We find that ecosystems have the strongest influence on surface climatic conditions in the boreal and tropical regions, where temperature and moisture changes could substantially offset or magnify greenhouse‐forced changes. This approach can be extended to estimate the effects of changing land cover on local, physical climate processes that are relevant to society.
Application of Linear Flow Analysis to Shale Gas Wells—Field Cases
Authors: Al-Ahmadi Hasan A. , Almarzooq Anas M. , Wattenbarger R. A.
Published: February 2010

It has often been observed that tight gas wells behave as though they are controlled by transient linear flow. This behavior can be seen as a "half-slope" on a type curve and certain reservoir parameters can be evaluated. There can be many causes of linear flow, so the engineer must choose the most likely model for a particular well. Linear flow behavior has also been observed in shale gas wells but these wells tend to exhibit a significant "skin effect" that is not so common in tight gas wells. This "skin effect" can mask early linear behavior but may be accounted for with a modified equation form which is presented in this paper.

Two mathematical models are presented which represent plausible relationships between fractures and matrix rock. Each model can be fit by linear dual porosity solutions. But in either case observed production rates can be represented by transient linear flow out of the matrix since the transient flow in the fracture system dies out in just hours or a few days. Calculation procedures are given which can be used to calculate size of the drainage volume, and the area of the interfaces between the hydraulic fractures and the rock matrix, Acm, and the matrix permeability in some cases. The numerical value of Acm may provide useful information in evaluating a well's completion and stimulation effectiveness. Both the "skin effect" and "drawdown dependence" are accounted for in the proposed method.

Several field examples are presented which show ideal applications of the calculation procedures as well as other cases for which the method does not seem to apply, or at least does not work so well. Some factors that may cause difficulties in analyzing flow behavior are liquid loading, interference with adjacent wells, and fracture patterns that cannot be represented by our idealized model. The proposed method should be thought of as idealized models which may be found to be useful in analyzing production data from shale gas wells in their early life. Other methods may be more useful and more accurate in a well's later life.
Continuous Estimation of Ultimate Recovery
Authors: Currie S. M. , Ilk D. , Blasingame T. A.
Published: February 2010

Gas in place/reserves estimation in unconventional (low/ultra-low permeability) reservoirs has become a topic of increased interest as more of these resources are being developed domestically and internationally. Production data from these unconventional gas reservoirs exhibit extended periods of transient/transition flow behavior that often lead to the overestimation of gas in place/reserves with the use of simple rate-time extrapolation techniques.

In this work we show that the analysis of production data (particularly rate-time data) before the onset of boundary dominated flow for these unconventional gas reservoirs leads to significant overestimation of gas in place/reserves. Consequently, we introduce the concept of "continuous estimation of ultimate recovery" (or "continuous EUR") where estimation of reserves from a single gas well is performed in a dynamic fashion — in other words we continuously estimate the reserves for selected time intervals throughout the producing life of the well.

We have applied the "continuous EUR" method by using simple rate-time relations such as the Arps' "hyperbolic" rate decline relation and the power-law exponential rate decline relation along with the straight line extrapolation technique, which provides a lower limit for EUR. We present the application of the "continuous EUR" method with a simulated tight gas data set and four (tight gas) field data sets. Our analyses show that the distinction in the flow behavior is more evident and the uncertainty in reserves estimation decreases significantly when reserves are evaluated continuously.
Hardwood Seedling Growth on Different Mine Spoil Types with and without Topsoil Amendment
Authors: Showalter Julia M. , Burger James A. , Zipper Carl E.
Published: February 2010

The goal of many owners of reclaimed mined land in the Appalachian region is to restore the diverse native hardwood forest for environmental, economic, and cultural reasons. However, native hardwoods often grow poorly on mined sites because they are planted in unsuitable spoils devoid of native topsoil. In a greenhouse experiment, we examined the suitability of four growth media available for use on many mined sites in the central Appalachians—forest topsoil (FT), weathered sandstone (WS), unweathered sandstone (US), and unweathered shale (UH)—as well as the effects of topsoil amendment (none vs. amended) on the growth of three native hardwood species:Fraxinus americana,Quercus rubra, andLiriodendron tulipiferaA 4 × 2 × 3 factorial greenhouse experiment was conducted with planted 1‐yr‐old seedlings. Tree growth, foliar nutrients, and soil properties were measured and characterized. The WS was the spoil most conducive to growth forF. americanaandQ. rubra. Liriodendron tulipiferadid not respond to any treatments. Tree growth was highly correlated with mineralizable soil nitrogen and extractable soil phosphorus. Topsoil amendment significantly increased growth on the UH but not on the US or WS. Topsoil amendment increased the number of native herbaceous plants growing in the pots and improved foliar nutrient content inF. americanaandL. tulipiferaMany properties of the WS, such as pH, microbial activity, and water availability, more closely approximated the control soil than the US or UH. This study showed that trees are sensitive to spoil type and that certain spoil types that are conducive to good growth of native trees should be used during the reclamation process, particularly if forest topsoil is not applied. Forest topsoil amendment improved tree growth on some spoil materials, improved tree nutrition, and helped restore the native soil organisms and plants that were present before mining.
Impact of Grass and Grass with Poplar Buffer Strips on Atrazine and Metolachlor Losses in Surface Runoff and Subsurface Infiltration from Agricultural Plots
Authors: Caron Emmanuelle , Lafrance Pierre , Auclair Jean‐Christian , Duchemin Marc
Published: February 2010

In many areas of intensive corn production, atrazine and metolachlor are among the most commonly found herbicides in surface and ground water. This 2‐yr study compared the impact of grass and grass+tree buffer strips on the exported masses of atrazine, metolachlor, and a degradation product of atrazine, desethylatrazine (DEA). The experimental system consisted of four replicate plots in a three‐way completely randomized design (no buffer zone, grass buffer zone, and grass+tree buffer strips). The field plots were 5 m wide and 30 m long and grown in corn. The grass and grass+tree buffer strips were 5 m and had the same grass vegetation except for eight young hybrid poplars. Over the 2‐yr study, surface runoff and subsurface infiltration water (under the buffer strip) were collected after the initial three rainfall events after herbicide application. Dissolved atrazine, metolachlor, and DEA were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The presence of buffer strips decreased the exported masses of atrazine and metolachlor in surface runoff. A three‐way ANOVA with treatment (type of buffer strip), water (surface runoff or subsurface infiltration), and time between herbicide application and rainfall event as factors showed a significant reduction (40–60% in 2004 and 75–95% in 2005) in the total (surface runoff+infiltrated water) exported masses of atrazine and metolachlor in the presence of buffer strips. Rainfall events after herbicide application were different between the 2 yr and greatly affected the flow distribution (e.g., subsurface infiltration) and the leached herbicide concentrations. No significant difference in the capacity to reduce herbicide exports was observed between grass and grass+tree buffer strip treatments; the poorly developed young poplar biomass at the time of the study may partly explain this observation.
Nutrient and Trace Element Dynamics in Blended Topsoils Containing Spent Foundry Sand and Compost
Authors: Stehouwer Richard C. , Hindman Jennifer M. , MacDonald Kirsten E.
Published: February 2010

Spent foundry sand (SFS) could be used with compost to produce blended synthetic topsoil material but many environmental agencies restrict such use out of concern for leaching and plant uptake of contaminants in SFS. A 3 yr field experiment assessed the potential for contaminant leaching and plant uptake from natural soils and blended synthetic topsoils made with three SFSs and three composts. Plots were instrumented with lysimeters and planted with perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.). Growth was better on blended soils than natural soils and tissue content of most nutrients and trace elements remained within normal ranges in plants grown on both blended and natural soils, though concentrations of N, P, K, S, B, Cu, Mo, and Zn were larger from some of the blended soils. Blended soils leached more P and K than natural soils and blended soil made with low C/N ratio compost leached more NH4 than the natural soil. All blended soils leached more Cu, and some leached more As, Mo, and Zn than natural soils. With the exception of As in leachates from one blended soil no trace elements exceeded drinking water standards. None of the 13 polyaromatic hydrocarbons or 11 phenolics analyzed was detected in the leachates. We conclude use of SFS in blended soils presents low risk from trace metal or organic contaminants in SFS. Blended soils with SFS and compost perform well as topsoil substitutes and the greatest environmental risk is N and P leaching from use of low C/N ratio or immature composts.
Mass Balances on Selected Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in the New York–New Jersey Harbor
Authors: Rodenburg Lisa A. , Valle Sandra N. , Panero Marta A. , Muñoz Gabriela R. , Shor Leslie M.
Published: February 2010

Mass balances on 10 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the New York–New Jersey Harbor (hereafter “the Harbor”) were constructed using monitoring data from the water column, sediment, and atmosphere. Inputs considered included tributaries, atmospheric deposition, wastewater treatment plant discharges, combined sewer overflows (CSOs), and stormwater runoff. Removal processes examined included tidal exchange between the Harbor and the coastal Bight and Long Island Sound, volatilization, and accumulation or burial of sediment‐bound PAHs in the Harbor. The PAHs investigated were fluorene, phenanthrene, fluoranthene, pyrene, benz[a]anthracene, benzo[a]pyrene, perylene, benzo[ghi]perylene, indeno[1,2,3‐cd]pyrene, and dibenz[a,h]anthracene. The results show inputs and outputs are fairly well balanced for most compounds, a finding that suggests aerobic biodegradation may not be a key loss process in this Harbor, as has been assumed in other systems. The main pathway for inputs of all PAHs is stormwater runoff. Atmospheric deposition is an important conveyor of PAHs with molecular weights ≤202 g mol−1 A principal objective of this report is to expose key data gaps, which include the need for comprehensive monitoring of both flow and PAH concentrations in stormwater and CSOs. An improved understanding of the key transmission routes of nonpoint source pollutants is essential for sustainable management of urban water resources.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Soil of the Canadian River Floodplain in Oklahoma
Authors: Sartori Fabio , Wade Terry L. , Sericano Jose L. , Mohanty Binayak P. , Smith Kevin A.
Published: February 2010

The accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in soil, plants, and water may impart negative effects on ecosystem and human health. We quantified the concentration and distribution of 41 PAH (n = 32), organic C, total N, and S (n = 140) and investigated PAH sources using a chronosequence of floodplain soils under a natural vegetation succession. Soil samples were collected between 0‐ and 260‐cm depth in bare land (the control), wetland, forest, and grassland areas near a closed municipal landfill and an active asphalt plant (the contaminant sources) in the north bank of the Canadian River near Norman, OK. Principal component, cluster, and correlation analyses were used to investigate the spatial distribution of PAH, in combination with diagnostic ratios to distinguish pyrogenic vs. petrogenic PAH suites. Total PAH concentration (ΣPAH) had a mean of 1300 ng g−1, minimum of 16 ng g−1, and maximum of 12,000 ng g−1 At 0‐ to 20‐cm depth, ΣPAH was 3500 ± 1600 ng g−1 (mean ± 1 SE) near the contaminant sources. The most common compounds were nonalkylated, high molecular weight PAH of pyrogenic origin, i.e., fluoranthene (17%), pyrene (14%), phenanthrene (9%), benzo(b)fluoranthene (7%), chrysene (6%), and benzo(a)anthracene (5%). ΣPAH in the control (130 ± 23 ng g−1) was comparable to reported concentrations for the rural Great Plains. Perylene had a unique distribution pattern suggesting biological inputs. The main PAH contamination mechanisms were likely atmospheric deposition due to asphalt production at the 0‐ to 20‐cm depth and past landfill operations at deeper depths.
Rhizobacteria Capable of Producing ACC‐deaminase May Mitigate Salt Stress in Wheat
Authors: Nadeem Sajid Mahmood , Zahir Zahir Ahmad , Naveed Muhammad , Asghar Hafiz Naeem , Arshad Muhammad
Published: February 2010

Rhizobacteria may promote plant growth by cleaving plant‐produced 1‐aminocyclopropane‐1‐carboxylic acid (ACC) through ACC‐deaminase activity. The effectiveness of plant‐growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) for improving the growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) was evaluated under salinity stress. The effect of high ethylene concentrations on plant growth and performance of these strains for reducing this negative impact was also evaluated by conducting a classical triple‐response bioassay. Eighteen rhizobacterial strains containing ACC‐deaminase were screened by conducting a jar experiment under axenic conditions at 1 (original), 5, 10, and 15 dS m−1 The four most effective strains were further evaluated in a pot trial at salinity levels of 1.46 (original), 5, 10, and 15 dS m−1 In general, salinity depressed the growth of wheat, but inoculation improved the growth and yield of wheat compared with the uninoculated controls. At the high salinity level (15 dS m−1), plant height, root length, plant biomass, and grain yield increased up to 37, 70, 116, and 111%, respectively, compared with the control. Results indicated that inoculated plants had higher K+/Na+ ratios, relative water contents and chlorophyll content; however, relatively low proline contents compared with controls. The results also showed that intensity of the classical triple response decreased due to inoculation with these strains. Pseudomonas putida (W2) and P. fluorescens (W17) were the most effective strains for alleviating salt stress even at higher salinity levels. Our results suggest that the assay for ACC‐deaminase activity could be an efficient approach to screen effective PGPR for increasing the growth and yield of wheat under salt‐stressed conditions.
Urea Decreases Nitrous Oxide Emissions Compared with Anhydrous Ammonia in a Minnesota Corn Cropping System
Authors: Venterea Rodney T. , Dolan Michael S. , Ochsner Tyson E.
Published: February 2010

Quantifying N2O emissions from corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] fields under different fertilizer regimes is essential to developing national inventories of greenhouse gas emissions. The objective of this study was to compare N2O emissions in plots managed for more than 15 yr under continuous corn (C/C) vs. a corn–soybean (C/S) rotation that were fertilized during the corn phase with either anhydrous NH3 (AA) or urea (U). During three growing seasons, N2O emissions from corn following corn were nearly identical to corn following soybean. In both systems, however, N2O emissions with AA were twice the emissions with U. After accounting for N2O emissions during the soybean phase, it was estimated that a shift from C/S to C/C would result in an increase in annual emissions of 0.78 kg N ha−1 (equivalent to 0.11 Mg CO2–C ha−1) when AA was used, compared with only 0.21 kg N ha−1 (0.03 Mg CO2–C ha−1) with U. In light of trends toward increased use of U, these results suggest that fertilizer‐induced soil N2O emissions may decline in the future, at least per unit of applied N, although further study is needed in different soils and cropping systems. While soil CO2 emissions were 20% higher under C/C, crop residue from the prior year did not affect soil inorganic N or dissolved organic C during the subsequent season. We also compared different flux‐calculation schemes, including a new method for correcting chamber‐induced errors, and found that selection of a calculation method altered N2O emissions estimates by as much as 35%.
Layer-by-Layer Method for the Synthesis and Growth of Surface Mounted Metal-Organic Frameworks (SURMOFs)
Authors: Shekhah Osama
Published: February 2010

A layer-by-layer method has been developed for the synthesis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their deposition on functionalized organic surfaces. The approach is based on the sequential immersion of functionalized organic surfaces into solutions of the building blocks of the MOF, i.e., the organic ligand and the inorganic unit. The synthesis and growth of different types of MOFs on substrates with different functionalization, like COOH, OH and pyridine terminated surfaces, were studied and characterized with different surface characterization techniques. A controlled and highly oriented growth of very homogenous films was obtained using this method. The layer-by-layer method offered also the possibility to study the kinetics of film formation in more detail using surface plasmon resonance and quartz crystal microbalance. In addition, this method demonstrates the potential to synthesize new classes of MOFs not accessible by conventional methods. Finally, the controlled growth of MOF thin films is important for many applications like chemical sensors, membranes and related electrodes.
Iodocionin, a Cytotoxic Iodinated Metabolite from the Mediterranean Ascidian Ciona edwardsii
Authors: Aiello Anna , Fattorusso Ernesto , Imperatore Concetta , Menna Marialuisa , Müller Werner E.G.
Published: February 2010

Chemical investigation of the Mediterranean ascidian Ciona edwardsii has been performed, leading to the isolation of two halogenated compounds: a new tyrosine-iodinated derivative iodocionin (1) and the relevant brominated analogue (2), previously isolated from a Caribbean sponge. The structure of the new compound 1 has been assigned on the basis of spectroscopic analysis.Both compounds were tested for cytotoxicity in vitro against two different cancer cell lines, L5178Y (mouse lymphoma) and PC-12 (rat pheochromocytoma). Iodocionin was shown to possess significant and selective activity against lymphoma cells with an IC50 of 7.75 μg/mL.
Bioactive Sesterterpenes and Triterpenes from Marine Sponges: Occurrence and Pharmacological Significance
Authors: Ebada Sherif S. , Lin WenHan , Proksch Peter
Published: February 2010

Marine ecosystems (>70% of the planet's surface) comprise a continuous resource of immeasurable biological activities and immense chemical entities. This diversity has provided a unique source of chemical compounds with potential bioactivities that could lead to potential new drug candidates. Many marine-living organisms are soft bodied and/or sessile. Consequently, they have developed toxic secondary metabolites or obtained them from microorganisms to defend themselves against predators [1]. For the last 30–40 years, marine invertebrates have been an attractive research topic for scientists all over the world. A relatively small number of marine plants, animals and microbes have yielded more than 15,000 natural products including numerous compounds with potential pharmaceutical potential. Some of these have already been launched on the pharmaceutical market such as Prialt® (ziconotide; potent analgesic) and Yondelis® (trabectedin or ET-743; antitumor) while others have entered clinical trials, e.g., alpidin and kahalalide F. Amongst the vast array of marine natural products, the terpenoids are one of the more commonly reported and discovered to date. Sesterterpenoids (C25) and triterpenoids (C30) are of frequent occurrence, particularly in marine sponges, and they show prominent bioactivities. In this review, we survey sesterterpenoids and triterpenoids obtained from marine sponges and highlight their bioactivities.
Anti-Parasitic Compounds from Streptomyces sp. Strains Isolated from Mediterranean Sponges
Authors: Pimentel-Elardo Sheila Marie , Kozytska Svitlana , Bugni Tim S. , Ireland Chris M. , Moll Heidrun , Hentschel Ute
Published: February 2010

Actinomycetes are prolific producers of pharmacologically important compounds accounting for about 70% of the naturally derived antibiotics that are currently in clinical use. In this study, we report on the isolation of Streptomyces sp. strains from Mediterranean sponges, on their secondary metabolite production and on their screening for anti-infective activities. Bioassay-guided isolation and purification yielded three previously known compounds namely, cyclic depsipeptide valinomycin, indolocarbazole alkaloid staurosporine and butenolide. This is the first report of the isolation of valinomycin from a marine source. These compounds exhibited novel anti-parasitic activities specifically against Leishmania major (valinomycin IC50 < 0.11 µM; staurosporine IC50 5.30 µM) and Trypanosoma brucei brucei (valinomycin IC50 0.0032 µM; staurosporine IC50 0.022 µM; butenolide IC50 31.77 µM). These results underscore the potential of marine actinomycetes to produce bioactive compounds as well as the re-evaluation of previously known compounds for novel anti-infective activities.
Artificial Neural Network Approach for Mapping Contrasting Tillage Practices
Authors: Sudheer K. P. , Gowda Prasanna , Chaubey Indrajeet , Howell Terry
Published: February 2010

Tillage information is crucial for environmental modeling as it directly affects evapotranspiration, infiltration, runoff, carbon sequestration, and soil losses due to wind and water erosion from agricultural fields. However, collecting this information can be time consuming and costly. Remote sensing approaches are promising for rapid collection of tillage information on individual fields over large areas. Numerous regression-based models are available to derive tillage information from remote sensing data. However, these models require information about the complex nature of underlying watershed characteristics and processes. Unlike regression-based models, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) provides an efficient alternative to map complex nonlinear relationships between an input and output datasets without requiring a detailed knowledge of underlying physical relationships. Limited or no information currently exist quantifying ability of ANN models to identify contrasting tillage practices from remote sensing data. In this study, a set of Landsat TM-based ANN models was developed to identify contrasting tillage practices in the Texas High Plains. Observed tillage data from Moore and Ochiltree Counties were used to develop and evaluate the models, respectively. The overall classification accuracy for the 15 models developed with the Moore County dataset varied from 74% to 91%. Statistical evaluation of these models against the Ochiltree County dataset produced results with an overall classification accuracy varied from 66% to 80%. The ANN models based on TM band 5 or indices of TM Band 5 may provide consistent and accurate tillage information when applied to the Texas High Plains.
Feasibility Analysis of Sustainability-Based Measures to Reduce VOC Emissions in Office Partition Manufacturing
Authors: Luisser Frank S. , Rosen Marc A.
Published: February 2010

A feasibility analysis is reported of reduction opportunities for volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions in manufacturing office furniture partitions, aimed at contributing to efforts to improve the sustainability of the process. A pollution prevention methodology is utilized. The purpose is to provide practical options for VOC emissions reductions during the manufacturing of office furniture partitions, but the concepts can be generally applied to the wood furniture industry. Baseline VOC emissions for a typical plant are estimated using a mass balance approach. The feasibility analysis expands on a preliminary screening to identify viable pollution prevention options using realistic criteria and weightings, and is based on technical, environmental and economic considerations. The measures deemed feasible include the implementation of several best management practices, ceasing the painting of non-visible parts, switching to hot melt backwrapping glue, application of solvent recycling and modification of the mechanical clip attachment. Implementation, measurement and control plans are discussed for the measures considered feasible, which can enhance the sustainability of the manufacturing of office furniture partitions. Reducing VOC emissions using the measures identified can, in conjunction with other measures, improve the sustainability of the manufacturing process.
Alkali silica reaction in concrete induced by mortar adhered to recycled aggregate
Authors: Etxeberria M. , Vázquez E.
Published: February 2010

The durability of recycled concrete must be determined before this material can be used in construction. In this paper the alkali-silica reaction in recycled concrete is analyzed. The recycled concrete is made with recycled aggregates, composed by original limestone aggregates and adhered mortar with reactive silica sand, and high alkali content cement. Due to the manufacturing process used for concrete production and the high water absorption capacity of recycled aggregates, cement accumulation happens in the interface (ITZ). The concentration of alkalis on the surface of recycled aggregates- ITZ and the presence of reactive sand in the mortar adhering to the recycled aggregate induce an alkali-silica reaction in 6-month concrete. The existence of this reaction is confirmed by environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) and EDX analysis. The mechanical properties of 6-month recycled concrete were similar to those values at 28-days of curing.
Efficacy of cardiorespiratory aerobic exercise in rheumatoid arthritis: Meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Baillet Athan , Zeboulon Nadine , Gossec Laure , Combescure Christophe , Bodin Louis‐Antoine , Juvin Robert , Dougados Maxime , Gaudin Philippe
Published: February 2010

Objective

Several lines of evidence have emphasized an improvement in aerobic capacity and muscle strength after physical exercise programs in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy of aerobic exercises in RA on quality of life, function, and clinical and radiologic outcomes by a systematic literature review and a meta‐analysis.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed in the Medline, EMBase, and Cochrane databases up to July 2009 and in the abstracts presented at rheumatology scientific meetings during the last 5 years. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing aerobic exercises with non‐aerobic interventions in RA patients were included. Outcomes studied were postintervention quality of life, function assessed by the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), a pain visual analog scale (VAS), joint count, the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28), and radiologic damage. Efficacy was assessed by standardized mean differences (SMDs; difference between groups of mean outcome variation from baseline/SD at baseline) of aerobic exercises versus non‐aerobic rehabilitation. Heterogeneity was tested. SMDs were pooled by a meta‐analysis using the inverse of variance model.

Results

Fourteen RCTs, including 1,040 patients, met the inclusion criteria. Exercise improved the postintervention quality of life (SMD 0.39, P < 0.0001), HAQ score (SMD 0.24, P = 0.0009), and pain VAS (SMD 0.31, P = 0.02). Exercise in this RA population appeared safe, since global compliance, DAS28, and joint count were similar in both groups.

Conclusion

Cardiorespiratory aerobic conditioning in stable RA appears to be safe and improves some of the most important outcome measures. However, the degree of the effect of aerobic exercise on the abovementioned parameters is small.
Patient perspective of measuring treatment efficacy: The rheumatoid arthritis patient priorities for pharmacologic interventions outcomes
Authors: Sanderson T. , Morris M. , Calnan M. , Richards P. , Hewlett S.
Published: February 2010

Objective

Collaboration with patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) highlights that outcomes important to them include fatigue, coping, and life enjoyment. However, these are not commonly measured in clinical trials. There is little evidence about which outcomes patients would prioritize, or what factors influence patients' prioritization. Our objective was to develop a complementary core set with patients to promote inclusion of their priority outcomes in pharmacologic interventions.

Methods

Nominal groups were conducted with RA patients to rank 63 outcomes generated from previous in‐depth interviews. A multicenter postal survey provided the final selection of core outcomes for the Rheumatoid Arthritis Patient Priorities for Pharmacologic Interventions (RAPP‐PI), in which RA patients rated the importance of the priority outcomes from the nominal groups and ranked the top 6.

Results

Twenty‐six patients participated in 5 nominal group discussions and reduced the 63 initial outcomes to the 32 most important. A total of 254 participants in the survey ranked priority treatment outcomes to form the RAPP‐PI: pain, activities of daily living, joint damage, mobility, life enjoyment, independence, fatigue, and valued activities. The 8 priorities represent 3 domains of treatment outcomes: direct impact of RA, psychosocial well‐being, and function/participation. Chi‐square tests showed that disease severity, disease duration, sex, and patients' perceptions of managing, self‐efficacy, and normality influenced the selection of priority treatment outcomes.

Conclusion

Collaboration with patients has captured their perspectives of priority outcomes from pharmacologic interventions. Although there is some overlap with professional core outcomes, the additional use of this complementary set will give a broader evaluation of effectiveness of interventions from the key stakeholders: patients.
Molecular Morphology of the Chick Heart Visualized by MALDI Imaging Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Grey Angus C. , Gelasco Andrew K. , Section Jarren , Moreno‐Rodriguez Ricardo A. , Krug Edward L. , Schey Kevin L.
Published: February 2010

Utilization of MALDI‐MS (matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry) for tissue imaging is a relatively new proteomic technique that simultaneously maps the spatial distribution of multiple proteins directly within a single frozen tissue section. Here, we report the development of a methodology to apply MALDI tissue imaging to chick heart tissue sections acquired from fixed and paraffin‐embedded samples. This protocol produces molecular images that can be related to the high‐quality histological tissue sections. Perfused term chick hearts were fixed in acidic ethanol and embedded in paraffin wax. Tissue sections (15 μm) were collected onto conductive slides, deparaffinized with xylene, and transitioned into water with graded ethanol washes and allowed to air dry. In separate experiments, three different MALDI matrices were applied to chick heart tissue sections through repeated cycles from a glass nebulizer. Tissue sections were then analyzed by MALDI mass spectrometry using a raster step‐size of 75–100 μm, and molecular images for specific m/z ratios reconstituted. MALDI tissue imaging revealed spatially resolved protein signals within single heart sections that are specific to structures or regions of the heart, for example, vessels, valves, endocardium, myocardium, or septa. Moreover, no prior knowledge of protein expression is required as is the case for immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization methodologies. The ability to simultaneously localize a large number of unique protein signals within a single tissue section, with good preservation of histological features, provides cardiovascular researchers a new tool to give insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying normal and pathological conditions. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immunohistochemical Localization of SNARE Proteins in Dental Pulp and Periodontal Ligament of the Rat Incisor
Authors: Honma Shiho , Taki Kunitaka , Lei Shi , Niwa Hitoshi , Wakisaka Satoshi
Published: February 2010

Distribution of three soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive fusion protein attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins, syntaxin‐1, synaptosomal‐associated protein of 25 kDa (SNAP‐25), and vesicle‐associated membrane protein‐2 (VAMP‐2), was examined in dental pulp and periodontal ligament of the rat incisor. In the trigeminal ganglion, syntaxin‐1 and SNAP‐25 immunoreactivity was predominately detected in medium‐ to large‐sized neurons. Most syntaxin‐1 immunoreactive neurons expressed SNAP‐25. In contrast, VAMP‐2 was localized in small‐ to medium‐sized neurons and in slender‐shaped cells surrounding SNAP‐25‐immunopositive neurons. When the inferior alveolar nerve, one of the mandibular nerve branches innervating the dental pulp and periodontal ligament, was ligated, SNARE proteins accumulated at the site proximal to the ligation. In the incisor dental pulp, all nerve fibers displayed immunoreactivity for syntaxin‐1, SNAP‐25, and VAMP‐2. In the periodontal ligament of the incisor, almost all nerve fibers displayed both syntaxin‐1 and SNAP‐25 immunoreactivity, but lacked VAMP‐2 immunoreactivity. SNAP‐25 protein expression was localized around the vesicle membranes at the axon terminal of the periodontal mechanoreceptors. These present data suggest that these three SNARE proteins are synthesized at the trigeminal ganglion, transported centrally and peripherally, and expressed in sensory endings where apparent synapses are not present. Because those proteins participate in docking and exocytosis of synapse vesicles in the central nervous system, they might also contribute to vesicle exocytosis at receptive fields where apparent synapses are not present. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ibuprofen and Lipoic Acid Diamides as Potential Codrugs with Neuroprotective Activity
Authors: Sozio Piera , D'Aurizio Eleonora , Iannitelli Antonio , Cataldi Amelia , Zara Susi , Cantalamessa Franco , Nasuti Cinzia , Di Stefano Antonio
Published: February 2010

Current evidences support the hypothesis that non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and antioxidant therapy might protect against the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the present work, our attention was focused on ibuprofen (IBU) used in clinical trails to prevent Alzheimer's disease, and (R)‐α‐lipoic acid (LA) considered as a potential neuroprotective agent in AD therapy. In particular, we investigated a series of lipophilic molecular combinations obtained by joining (R)‐α‐lipoic acid and ibuprofen via an amide bond. These new entities might allow targeted delivery of the parent drugs to neurons, where cellular oxidative stress and inflammation seem related to Alzheimer's disease. Our study included the synthesis of conjugates 1–3 and the evaluation of their physicochemical and in‐vitro antioxidant properties. The new compounds are extremely stable in aqueous buffer solutions (pH = 1.3 and 7.4), and in rat and human plasma they showed a slow bioconversion to ibuprofen and (R)‐α‐lipoic acid. Codrugs 1–3 displayed in vitro free radical scavenging activity and were hydrolyzed more rapidly in brain tissue than in rat serum indicating that these new entities might allow targeted delivery of the parent drugs to neurons. The immunohistochemical analysis of Aβ (1‐40) protein showed that Aβ‐injected cerebral cortices treated with ibuprofen or compound 1 showed few plaques within capillary vessels and, in particular, Aβ (1‐40) protein was less expressed in codrug‐1‐treated than in ibuprofen‐treated cerebral cortex.
Assessment of surgical competence at carotid endarterectomy under local anaesthesia in a simulated operating theatre
Authors: Black S A , Nestel D F , Kneebone R L , Wolfe J H N
Published: February 2010

Background

Methods of surgical training that do not put patients at risk are desirable. A high-fidelity simulation of carotid endarterectomy under local anaesthesia was tested as a tool for assessment of vascular surgical competence, as an adjunct to training.

Methods

Sixty procedures were performed by 30 vascular surgeons (ten junior trainees, ten senior trainees and ten consultants) in a simulated operating theatre. Each performed in a non-crisis scenario followed by a crisis scenario. Performance was assessed live by means of rating scales for technical and non-technical skills.

Results

There was a significant difference in technical skills with ascending grade for both generic and procedure-specific technical skill scores in both scenarios (P < 0·001 for all comparisons). Similarly, there was also a significant difference in non-technical skill with ascending grade for both scenarios (P < 0·001). There was a highly significant correlation between technical and non-technical performance in both scenarios (non-crisis: rs = 0·80, P < 0·001; crisis: rs = 0·85, P < 0·001). Inter-rater reliability was high (α≥ 0·80 for all scales).

Conclusion

High-fidelity simulation offers competency-based assessment for all grades and may provide a useful training environment for junior trainees and more experienced surgeons.
Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy: A Pilot Study Examining Cognitive Change in Patients Before and After Treatment
Authors: Dixit Neha K. , Vazquez Lauren D. , Cross Natalie J. , Kuhl Emily A. , Serber Eva R. , Kovacs Adrienne , Dede Duane E. , Conti Jamie B. , Sears Samuel F.
Published: February 2010

Background

Cardiovascular patients with reduced cardiovascular output and capacity such as those with congestive heart failure (CHF) have demonstrated cognitive‐related dysfunction. The use of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) is considered standard care for CHF patients who do not improve despite optimal medical therapy. Cardiac resynchronization therapy may improve neurocognitive and psychosocial functioning in patients by increasing cardiac output and cerebral perfusion.

Methods

A total of 20 patients were examined before and 3 months after CRT device implantation, via administration of standard neurocognitive and psychosocial testing measures.

Results

Significant improvements in neurocognitive measures of attention (Digit Span: t[20] = − 2.695 [55.94±9.27–62.31±10.05], P = 0.015) and information processing (Digit Symbol: t[20] = − 4.577, P < 0.001; Controlled Oral Word Association Test: t[20] = − 3.338, P = 0.004) were demonstrated. Improvements in cardiac‐specific quality of life were also significant (Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire: t[16] = 3.544, P = 0.005 [55.17±18.23–36.75±18.00]; The Left Ventricular Dysfunction Questionnaire: t[16] = 3.544, P = 0.003 [63.43±23.35–43.29±21.62]).

Conclusion

These results represent clinically significant, qualitative, and quantitative cognitive functional benefits for patients from a neurocognitive and psychosocial perspective. Results suggest that biventricular pacing improves cardiovascular outcome and psychosocial functioning in patients with CHF. The future investigation of a larger sample would be beneficial in establishing the depth and breadth of this improvement. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Control of spectral emittance using a rare‐earth oxide film coated on a ceramic plate
Authors: Kumano Tomoyuki , Hanamura Katsunori
Published: February 2010

The spectral emission of a ceramic plate coated with a rare‐earth oxide thin film was investigated for thermophotovoltaic (TPV) applications using a one‐dimensional radiative transfer analysis. The selective emitter has emission bands at wavelengths around 1 and 1.5 μm due to erbium. In the temperature range between 1400 and 1500 K, the radiant energy within these bands is remarkably large, because the Planck distribution has a peak at a wavelength of approximately 2 μm. In addition, the spectral response of a GaSb TPV cell has a peak at around 1.5 μm; therefore, the radiant energy of the emission bands is quite useful for the TPV generation of electricity. The total spectral efficiency for both the 1 μm and 1.5 μm bands reaches a maximum value of 0.295 for a film thickness between 0.2 and 0.3 mm. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/htj.20286