bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic thinking and values-based practice
Authors: Adshead Gwen
Published: October 2009

Values-based practice is a new approach to working with complex and conflicting values in mental health practice. Theoretically, it argues that many clinical and ethical dilemmas in psychiatry arise because of the different value perspectives taken by the players involved. By exploring the differences in value systems ‘held’ by each player, it may be possible to come to a richer consensus that can incorporate both similarities and differences. In particular, values-based practice suggests that, traditionally, the value perspective of the patient is often either not considered or is ignored, and that by giving it voice, clinical practice will become more patient-centred. In this article, I will compare values-based practice with other types of systemic thinking in mental healthcare and I will discuss some areas of clinical practice where values-based practice may be difficult to apply.
The challenges of managing self-harm effectively
Authors: Dogra Nisha
Published: October 2009

This commentary discusses how much we appear to know about self-harm and the circumstances in which it may occur but how little we really know about what works in managing it. It reviews how suggestions for its management conflict with what we know about self-harm and the outcomes of young people. The challenge appears to be how better to identify those at risk of further self-harm and to train frontline staff in this, so that at-risk individuals may be referred to specialist services. Perhaps there is also a need to review the evidence for what actually works in reducing repetition of self-harm.
Mechanisms of Amylin/Leptin Synergy in Rodent Models
Authors: Turek Victoria F. , Trevaskis James L. , Levin Barry E. , Dunn-Meynell Ambrose A. , Irani Boman , Gu Guibao , Wittmer Carrie , Griffin Peter S. , Vu Calvin , Parkes David G. , Roth Jonathan D.
Published: October 2009

The present studies aimed to identify mechanisms contributing to amylin/leptin synergy in reducing body weight and adiposity. We reasoned that if amylin/leptin harnessed complementary neuronal pathways, then in the leptin-sensitive state, amylin should augment leptin signaling/binding and that in the absence of endogenous amylin, leptin signaling should be diminished. Amylin (50 μg/kg, ip) amplified low-dose leptin-stimulated (15 μg/kg, ip) phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 signaling within the arcuate nucleus (ARC) in lean rats. Amylin (50 μg/kg · d) or leptin (125 μg/kg · d) infusion to lean rats decreased 28-d food intake (14 and 10%, respectively), body weight (amylin by 4.3%, leptin by 4.9%), and epididymal fat (amylin by 19%, leptin by 37%). Amylin/leptin co-infusion additively decreased food intake (by 26%) and reduced body weight (by 15%) and epididymal fat (by 78%; all P < 0.05 vs. all groups) in a greater than mathematically additive manner, consistent with synergy. Amylin increased leptin binding within the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMN) by 35% and dorsomedial hypothalamus by 47% (both P < 0.05 vs. vehicle). Amylin/leptin similarly increased leptin binding in the VMN by 40% and ARC by 70% (P < 0.05 vs. vehicle). In amylin-deficient mice, hypothalamic leptin receptor mRNA expression was reduced by 50%, leptin-stimulated phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 within ARC and VMN was reduced by 40%, and responsiveness to leptin’s (1 mg/kg · d for 28 d) weight-reducing effects was attenuated (all P < 0.05 vs. wild-type controls). We suggest that amylin/leptin’s marked weight- and fat-reducing effects are due to activation of intrinsic synergistic neuronal signaling pathways and further point to the integrated neurohormonal therapeutic potential of amylin/leptin agonism in obesity.
The bird GPS – long-range navigation in migrants
Authors: Thorup Kasper , Holland Richard A.
Published: October 2009

Nowadays few people consider finding their way in unfamiliar areas a problem as a GPS (Global Positioning System) combined with some simple map software can easily tell you how to get from A to B. Although this opportunity has only become available during the last decade, recent experiments show that long-distance migrating animals had already solved this problem. Even after displacement over thousands of kilometres to previously unknown areas,experienced but not first time migrant birds quickly adjust their course toward their destination, proving the existence of an experience-based GPS in these birds. Determining latitude is a relatively simple task, even for humans, whereas longitude poses much larger problems. Birds and other animals however have found a way to achieve this, although we do not yet know how. Possible ways of determining longitude includes using celestial cues in combination with an internal clock, geomagnetic cues such as magnetic intensity or perhaps even olfactory cues. Presently, there is not enough evidence to rule out any of these, and years of studying birds in a laboratory setting have yielded partly contradictory results. We suggest that a concerted effort, where the study of animals in a natural setting goes hand-in-hand with lab-based study, may be necessary to fully understand the mechanism underlying the long-distance navigation system of birds. As such, researchers must remain receptive to alternative interpretations and bear in mind that animal navigation may not necessarily be similar to the human system, and that we know from many years of investigation of long-distance navigation in birds that at least some birds do have a GPS – but we are uncertain how it works.
The role of signalling molecules on actin glutathionylation and protein carbonylation induced by cadmium in haemocytes of musselMytilus galloprovincialis(Lmk)
Authors: Dailianis Stefanos , Patetsini Efterpi , Kaloyianni Martha
Published: October 2009

This study investigated the role of Na+/H+ exchanger(NHE) and signalling molecules, such as cAMP, PKC, PI 3-kinase, and immune defence enzymes, NADPH oxidase and nitric oxide synthase, in the induction of protein glutathionylation and carbonylation in cadmium-treated haemocytes of mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. Glutathionylation was detected by western blot analysis and showed actin as its main target. A significant increase of both actin glutathionylation and protein carbonylation, were observed in haemocytes exposed to micromolar concentration of cadmium chloride(5 μmol l–1). Cadmium seems to cause actin polymerization that may lead to its increased glutathionylation, probably to protect it from cadmium-induced oxidative stress. It is therefore possible that polymerization of actin plays a signalling role in the induction of both glutathionylation and carbonylation processes. NHE seems to play a regulatory role in the induction of oxidative damage and actin glutathionylation, since its inhibition by 2 μmol l–1 cariporide, significantly diminished cadmium effects in each case. Similarly, attenuation of cadmium effects were observed in cells pre-treated with either 11 μmol l–1 GF-109203X, a potent inhibitor of PKC, 50 nmol l–1 wortmannin, an inhibitor of PI 3-kinase, 0.01 mmol l–1 forskolin, an adenylyl cyclase activator, 10 μmol l–1 DPI, a NADPH oxidase inhibitor, or 10 μmol l–1 L-NAME, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, suggesting a possible role of PKC, PI 3-kinase and cAMP, as well as NADPH oxidase and nitric oxide synthase in the enhancement of cadmium effects on both actin glutathionylation and protein carbonylation.
Built for speed: musculoskeletal structure and sprinting ability
Authors: Lee Sabrina S. M. , Piazza Stephen J.
Published: October 2009

The musculoskeletal structure of the foot and ankle has the potential to influence human sprinting performance in complex ways. A large Achilles'tendon moment arm improves the mechanical advantage of the triceps surae but also produces larger shortening velocity during rapid plantarflexion, which detracts from the force-generating capacity of the plantarflexors. The lever arm of the ground reaction force that resists the muscular plantarflexor moment during propulsive push-off is constrained in part by the skeletal structure of the foot. In this study, we measured the plantarflexion moment arms of the Achilles' tendon, lateral gastrocnemius fascicle lengths and pennation angles, and anthropometric characteristics of the foot and lower leg in collegiate sprinters and height-matched non-sprinters. The Achilles' tendon moment arms of the sprinters were 25% smaller on average in sprinters than in non-sprinters (P<0.001) whereas the sprinters' fascicles were 11%longer on average (P=0.024). The ratio of fascicle length to moment arm was 50% larger in sprinters (P<0.001). Sprinters were found to have longer toes (P=0.032) and shorter lower legs (P=0.026)than non sprinters. A simple computer simulation of the sprint push-off demonstrated that shorter plantarflexor moment arms and longer toes, like those measured in sprinters, permit greater generation of forward impulse. Simulated propulsion was enhanced in both cases by increasing the `gear ratio'of the foot, thus maintaining plantarflexor fibre length and reducing peak fibre shortening velocity. Longer toes especially prolonged the time of contact, giving greater time for forward acceleration by propulsive ground reaction force.
Different photoreceptor organs are used for photoperiodism in the larval and adult stages of the carabid beetle, Leptocarabus kumagaii
Authors: Shintani Yoshinori , Shiga Sakiko , Numata Hideharu
Published: October 2009

The role of the two distinct retinal photoreceptor organs in photoreception for photoperiodism was examined in the carabid beetle, Leptocarabus kumagaii, by surgical removal. This beetle shows long-day and short-day photoperiodic responses in the larval and adult stages, respectively. Larval diapause in the final instar is induced under short-day conditions whereas pupation occurs without diapause under long-day conditions. Adult reproductive diapause is terminated under short-day conditions but maintained under long-day conditions. The stemmata of the larvae and compound eyes of the adults were removed and the responses of the animals to photoperiod were compared to those of intact beetles. When all the stemmata were removed,larvae pupated without entering diapause under both long-day and short-day conditions, indicating that the larvae lacking stemmata were incapable of photoreception for photoperiodism. As in other holometabolous insects, the stemmata migrated into the brain during metamorphosis and remained rudimentarily in the optic lobe of the adult brain. However, these stemmata-derived organs were found to be no longer necessary for photoperiodism, because adults lacking the stemmata-derived organs responded to photoperiod normally. By contrast, removal of the compound eyes in adults resulted in the termination of reproductive diapause under both long-day and short-day conditions, indicating that photoreception for photoperiodism in the adult stage is performed by the compound eyes. Therefore, the site of photoperiodic photoreception in L. kumagaii appear to change from the stemmata to the compound eyes during metamorphosis.
Effects of fillers on the fracture behaviour of particulate polyester composites
Authors: Wong K J , Yousif B F , Low K O , Ng Y , Tan S L
Published: October 2009

In the current work, the fracture toughness of sand-particle- and wood-flake-reinforced polyester composites was studied under a linear elastic fracture mechanics approach. The effects of the particulate volume fraction (0–60 vol %) were studied. Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the damage features on the composite surface. Results showed that sand-particle- and fine-wood-flake-reinforced polymer composites exhibited better results at 40 vol % than at other particulate volume fractions. Meanwhile, coarse-wood-flake-reinforced polymer composites showed higher properties at 30 vol % than at other particulate volume fractions. Observation of the composite surface after tests showed that sand particles have poor interfacial adhesion compared with wood flakes.
Using mixed methods to identify factors influencing patient flow
Authors: Van Vaerenbergh Cindy
Published: October 2009

An effective method of identifying operational factors that influence patient flow can potentially lead to improvements and thus have huge benefits on the efficiency of hospital departments. This paper presents a new inductive mixed-method approach to identify operational factors that influence patient flow through an accident and emergency (A&E) department. Preliminary explorative observations were conducted, followed by semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders. A questionnaire survey of all medical, nursing, porter and clerical staff was then conducted. The observations provided factors for further exploration: skill-mix, long working hours, equipment availability, lack of orientation programmes, inefficient IT use and issues regarding communication structures. Interviewees highlighted several factors, including availability of medical supervision and senior nursing staff, nursing documentation issues, lack of morale due to overcrowding, personality differences and factors relating to the department layout. The questionnaire respondents strongly supported the importance of the previously identified factors. This paper demonstrates an effective mixed-method approach that can be replicated by other health-care managers to identify factors influencing patient flow. Further benefits include increased volume and quality of data, increased staff awareness for the influence of internal factors on patient flow and enhancing the evidence base for future decision making when prioritizing A&E projects.
Patient satisfaction questionnaire and quality achievement in hospital care: the case of a Greek public university hospital
Authors: Matis Georgios K , Birbilis Theodossios A , Chrysou Olga I
Published: October 2009

The scope of this research has been to investigate the satisfaction of Greek patients hospitalized in a tertiary care university public hospital in Alexandroupolis, Greece, in order to improve medical, nursing and organizational/administrative services. It is a cross-sectional study involving 200 patients hospitalized for at least 24 h. We administered a satisfaction questionnaire previously approved by the Greek Health Ministry. Four aspects of satisfaction were employed (medical, hotel facilities/organizational, nursing, global). Using principal component analysis, summated scales were formed and tested for internal consistency with the aid of Cronbach's alpha coefficient. The non-parametric Spearman rank correlation coefficient was also used. The results reveal a relatively high degree of global satisfaction (75.125%), yet satisfaction is higher for the medical (89.721%) and nursing (86.432%) services. Moreover, satisfaction derived from the hotel facilities and the general organization was found to be more limited (76.536%). Statistically significant differences in participant satisfaction were observed (depending on age, gender, citizenship, education, number of previous admissions and self-assessment of health status at the first and last day of patients' stay) for the medical, nursing and hotel facilities/organizational dimension, but not for global satisfaction. The present study confirms the results of previously published Greek surveys.
Do effective meetings determine progress in research?
Authors: Scholz Thomas , Koehler Christian , Evans Gregory R D
Published: October 2009

Progress in research is dependent on many success factors. In this review, we evaluate the importance of effective scientific meetings to achieve this progress. We focus on aspects that determine effective communication, such as length, size, interpersonal interactions, structure, and variety of meetings or conferences. Furthermore, we introduce the technique of a Syntegration® that offers a new tool to communicate effectively among managers today. It is discussed whether this process can be a useful structure for research meetings and whether it has the potential to generate decision-making and goals within this field.
Shortening the voiding interval for men having chlamydia nucleic acid amplification tests
Authors: Mathew T , O'Mahony C , Mallinson H
Published: October 2009

Male patients are assessed for a sexually transmitted infection provided a considerable length of time has elapsed since last micturition. The current availability of highly sensitive nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) for Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoea such as APTIMA Combo2 (AC2) led us to investigate the impact of voiding interval on the positivity of urine tests for CT. Male patients attending a genitourinary medicine clinic at high clinical risk for CT infection and known CT positives returning for treatment were included. Two first-void urine (FVU) specimens were collected: the first sample in the standard manner and the second sample was collected 20 minutes later or as soon as possible thereafter. Fifty-two CT-positive males were included in the analysis. All of the second samples were also CT positive and none were in the equivocal range. Paired t-test analysis did not show a significant difference between relative light unit readings of the first and second urine samples ( P = 0.127). Even in male patients who have recently passed urine, FVU tested by AC2 can still reliably detect CT. This provides us opportunity for more flexible and effective patient management.
Emotional intimacy predicts condom use: findings in a group at high sexually transmitted disease risk
Authors: Damani R , Ross M W , Aral S O , Berman S , St Lawrence J , Williams M L
Published: October 2009

Previous studies have reported an inverse relationship between condom use and emotional intimacy. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between condom use and emotional intimacy. The study was a gonorrhoea case-comparison study with the samples being drawn from public health clinics (cases) and select bars/nightclubs (places) of Houston, TX ( n = 215). Data were collected by questionnaires administered on a laptop computer. The majority of respondents were African-American (97.7%), women (69.3%) and had either high school or GED education (72.6%). Condom use with the last sexual partner was analysed along with intimacy with that partner assessed on a 3-point scale. Analysis showed that higher intimacy was related to greater condom use which was significant in men but not in women. In conclusion, these data were opposite to those of previous studies, which showed an inverse relationship between condom use and emotional intimacy. We hypothesize that in a high-risk environment, people exert more effort in protecting those they feel closer to. These data suggest a need to further explore the complex relationship between emotional intimacy and condom use.
Assessing training in sexual dysfunction for genitourinary medicine registrars
Authors: Emerson C , Goldmeier D , Green P
Published: October 2009

The training programme for specialist registrars in genitourinary medicine (GU) lists sexual dysfunction (SD) as ‘beyond essential, core curriculum’ despite many GU medicine clinics offering this service. A cross-sectional study was performed of all trainees on the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV mailing list. Data collected included frequency of clinics attended and involvement, any training and interest in future training. A total of 39/76 (51%) responses were received. In total, 20/39 (51%) work in departments with no SD clinic provision, and 12/39 have had some training in SD. In routine GU medicine consultation, 85% trainees are consulted regarding SD at least monthly. In all, 19/39 (49%) work in areas with weekly SD clinics; however, only three trainees were involved. Thirty-four out of 39 (87%) expressed interest in training and 31/39 (79%) respondents would like to see SD training added to the SpR curriculum. Fifty-one percent of juniors work in units without SD provision. Even when SD clinics occur, only three trainees are routinely involved and a large training opportunity is being missed. Despite this, 12/39 trainees have sought out extra training in the form of seminars, courses and meetings. Eighty-five percent wished to have SD as part of the core curriculum as they may ultimately work in an area where these skills are required.
Waiting Time to Lymph Node Biopsy is Dependent on Referral Method: Don't Write, Phone!
Authors: Pannick SAJ , Clark CL Ingham
Published: October 2009

INTRODUCTION

Patients with lymphadenopathy are commonly referred to general surgeons for diagnostic lymph node biopsy. We were concerned at potential long waits for this service in our hospital and thus wanted to compare the efficiency of written and telephone referral with a view to identifying the optimum care pathway for these patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Sixty patients were included in a 2-year retrospective review (excluding referrals associated with breast lumps which were managed separately). Hospital Episode Statistics data were used to analyse notes for the source and method of referral, waiting time to biopsy, clinic attendance and diagnosis.

RESULTS

Of referrals, 33% were from haematology and 28% from general practice. Overall, 47% of patients were referred by letter; of these, 64% were seen in clinic before biopsy. Personal referral between clinicians, by direct discussion, e-mail or fax led to a mean wait of 4 days, compared to 51 days when patients were referred by letter. Clinic attendance had no significant bearing on diagnostic accuracy or complication rate. Neoplasia accounted for 43% of diagnoses and infection (including four cases of tuberculosis) for 10%. Of biopsies, 33% showed benign changes, 8% were unrecorded and 5% were incorrect.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, 43% of biopsies revealed malignancy and we advise that lymph node biopsy requests should be managed on a fast-track pathway, expedited by direct personal request. Following this study, we have implemented a fast-track pathway for such patients.
A Clinicopathological Review of 324 Appendices Removed for Acute Appendicitis in Durban, South Africa: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Chamisa I
Published: October 2009

INTRODUCTION

Acute appendicitis remains a common surgical condition and the importance of specific elements in the clinical diagnosis remain controversial. A variety of neoplastic and inflammatory conditions mimic acute appendicitis. The purpose of this study was to determine the presenting pattern of acute appendicitis and to review the pathological diagnosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective analysis of 324 patients who had appendicectomy for acute appendicitis at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital (Natal, South Africa) during the period January 2002 to December 2004. Patient demographics, clinical features, white cell count, operative findings, outcome and histology results were recorded on a special patient proforma.

RESULTS

A total of 371 patients underwent appendicectomy during this period and 324 (M:F, 3.6:1) were available for analysis. The majority of our patients were in the second decade (43.1%) with only 29.3% presenting within 24 h of onset of symptoms. The most common symptoms were abdominal pain (100%), vomiting (57.4%) and anorexia (49.0%). Generalised and localised abdominal tenderness were present in 62.0% and 19.4% of patients, respectively. Pyrexia was noted in 41.0%. Localised and generalised peritonitis were present in 26.4% and 14.0%, respectively. The most common incisions were lower midline laparotomy (47.2%) and gridiron (37.3%). The negative appendicectomy rate was 17.0%. Acute appendiceal inflammation and gangrenous appendicitis was present in 36.1% and 9.6%, respectively. The perforation rate was 34.0% and there was a direct correlation with delayed presentation. There were no patients with carcinoid tumour or adenocarcinoma. Parasites and other associated conditions were seen in 8.6% of cases. Postoperative complications included: wound sepsis (25.3%), prolonged ileus (6.2%), peritonitis (4.6%) and chest infection (3.4%). Four patients died (1.2%) all from the perforated group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our patients present late with advanced disease and complications. All surgeons should bear in mind the possibility of parasitic infestations mimicking acute appendicitis and the presence of significant unusual histological findings in our setting justifies routine histopathological examination of appendices.
Low Plasma Albumin Linked to Fluid Overload in Postoperative Epidural Patients
Authors: Malhotra Karan , Axisa Benedict
Published: October 2009

INTRODUCTION

Hypotension is commonly associated with epidural use in postoperative patients and is usually treated with fluid or vasopressor therapy. The former can result in fluid overload, associated with significant morbidity. This study aimed to identify factors increasing the likelihood of fluid overload in elective patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective audit of fluid therapy in elective, postoperative, epidural patients was carried out over a 6-week period in a teaching hospital in England. Demographic, biochemical, and fluid balance data were collected and analysed to determine which factors had the strongest correlation with fluid overload. Fluid overload was calculated as the percentage of net fluid input relative to pre-operative body weight (%FO).

RESULTS

Thirty-two patients were included in this study. An overload of 10% of the patients' pre-operative body weight was considered significant. The mean fluid overload incurred by patients in this study was 8.17 l (range, 2.89–14.62 l); %FO was 11.32% (range, 3.67–26.10%). The strongest independently correlating factor to fluid overload was initial, postoperative plasma albumin. Patients with a plasma albumin less than 27 g/l developed significant overload: mean overload 9.75 l (range, 2.89–14.62 l), %FO 15.12% (range, 4.81–26.10%), whilst those with an albumin level greater than 27 g/l did not: mean overload 6.77 l (range, 3.34–11.48 l), %FO 7.96% (range, 3.67–13.93%); P = 0.0001.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients receiving epidurals with initial, postoperative, plasma albumin levels below 27 g/l are at increased risk of significant fluid overload. Earlier instigation of vasopressor therapy in this subgroup of patients may help prevent this.
Continuity of care: crossing the divide
Authors: Field Steve
Published: October 2009

This month's issue of the Bulletin focuses on the topic of continuity of care. This is an issue that is relevant across specialties, spanning the boundary between primary and secondary care. In this article Steve Field of the Royal College of General Practitioners puts the case for continuity of care from the GPs' perspective.
Continuity in care and training
Authors: Cresswell Ben
Published: October 2009

There have been many advances in patient care over the past 15 years. Some have been driven by changes in technology, some by pharmaceuticals and a better understanding of disease processes, and some by changes to service delivery. The patient remains at the heart of the process, however, and expectations have not stood still. Patients are now better informed and have access to a wealth of information relating both to their condition and its treatment and also to the clinicians who are delivering their care. The NHS has shifted to a market-driven model, in which services and resources are put out to tender and units must function within budgetary constraints.
The Actin-binding Protein Caldesmon Is in Spleen and Lymph Nodes Predominately Expressed by Smooth-muscle Cells, Reticular Cells, and Follicular Dendritic Cells
Authors: Köhler Christoph N.
Published: October 2009

Reticular cells and follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) build up a framework that underlies the compartmentalization of spleens and lymph nodes. Subpopulations of reticular cells express the smooth-muscle isoform of actin, indicative of a specialized contractile apparatus. We have investigated the distribution of the actin-binding protein caldesmon in spleen and lymph nodes of mice and rats. Caldesmon modulates contraction and regulates cell motility. Alternative splicing of transcripts from a single gene results in high-molecular-mass isoforms ( h-caldesmon) that are predominately expressed by smooth-muscle cells (SMCs), and low-molecular-mass isoforms ( I-caldesmon) that are thought to be widely distributed in non-muscle tissues, but the distribution of caldesmon in spleen and lymph nodes has not been reported. We have performed Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry using four different antibodies against caldesmon, among these a newly developed polyclonal antibody directed against recombinant mouse caldesmon. Western blot analysis showed the preponderance of I-caldesmon in spleen and lymph nodes. Our results from immunohistochemistry demonstrate caldesmon in SMCs, as expected, but also in reticular cells and FDCs, and suggest that the isoform highly expressed by reticular cells is I-caldesmon. In spleen of SCID mice, caldesmon was expressed by reticular cells in the absence of lymphocytes.
DNA Content Differences Between Male and Female Chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) Nuclei and Z and W Chromosomes Resolved by Image Cytometry
Authors: Mendonça Maria Andréia Corrěa , Carvalho Carlos Roberto , Clarindo Wellington Ronildo
Published: October 2009

Chicken red blood cells (CRBCs) are widely used as standards for DNA content determination. Cytogenetic data have shown that the Z sex chromosome is approximately twice as large as the W, so that the DNA content differs to some extent between male (ZZ) and female (ZW) chickens. Despite this fact, male and female CRBCs have been indiscriminately used in absolute genome size determination. Our work was conducted to verify whether the DNA content differences between male and female Gallus gallus domesticus “Leghorn” nuclei and ZZ/ZW chromosomes can be resolved by image cytometry (ICM). Air-dried smears stained by Feulgen reaction were used for nuclei analysis. Chicken metaphase spreads upon Feulgen staining were analyzed for obtaining quantitative information on the Z and W chromosomes. Before each capture session, we conducted quality control of the ICM instrumentation. Our results from nuclear measurements showed that the 2C value is 0.09 pg higher in males than in females. In chromosomes, we found that the Z chromosome shows 200% more DNA content than does the W chromosome. ICM demonstrated resolution power to discriminate low DNA content differences in genomes. We suggest prudence in the general use of CRBC 2C values as standards in comparative cytometric analysis.
Cryptic Species of Parasitoids Attacking the Soybean Aphid (Hemiptera: Aphididae) in Asia: Binodoxys communis and Binodoxys koreanus (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Aphidiinae)
Authors: Desneux Nicolas , Starý Petr , Delebecque Camille J , Gariepy Tara D , Barta Ruth J , Hoelmer Kim A , Heimpel George E
Published: October 2009

Collections of parasitoids attacking the soybean aphid, Aphis glycines Matsumura (Hemiptera: Aphididae), in South Korea yielded specimens that were originally identified as Binodoxys communis (Gahan) (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). We report here on laboratory studies indicating that this population is actually a previously unknown species of Binodoxys. Four classes of comparisons were made between the Korean population and a Chinese population that also had been identified as B. communis. The comparisons included 1) mating trials coupled with behavioral observations and spermathecal examinations, 2) assessment of nucleotide divergence at two mitochondrial and two nuclear gene loci, 3) patterns of host use, and 4) reassessment of morphological characters. These studies revealed premating reproductive isolation of the two populations and minor nucleotide differences in mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I sequences and nuclear internal transcriber spacer 1 sequences, providing strong indications that they are different species. Subtle morphological differences also were discovered that confirmed that the Chinese population corresponds to B. communis, whereas the Korean population does not. We propose the name Binodoxys koreanus StarÝ, sp. n. for the Korean population. The two species exhibited similar host ranges in the laboratory, the most notable exception being that B. koreanus, sp. n. is better able to develop in a population of Aphis craccivora Koch that harbors the bacterial endosymbiont Hamiltonella defensa Moran, which seems to strongly interfere with the development of B. communis. We discuss the implications of our results for biological control introductions against the soybean aphid in North America.
Molecular and Morphological Analysis ofDendroctonus pseudotsugae(Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) : An Assessment of the Taxonomic Status of Subspecies
Authors: Ruiz Enrico A , Víctor Javier , Hayes Jane L , Zújñiga Gerardo
Published: October 2009

Dendroctonus pseudotsugae Hopkins infests Douglas-fir, Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco, throughout the distribution of that tree species from British Columbia to northern Mexico. The subspecies Dendroctonus pseudotsugae barragani Furniss was described from the mountains of Chihuahua, Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico, whereas the nominal subspecies, Dendroctonus pseudotsugae pseudotsugae Hopkins, occurs north of Mexico. The description of D. p. barragani was based on the only known Mexican population at that time. More recently, new populations of this beetle have been discovered at 13 additional localities in Chihuahua, Durango, Coahuila, and Nuevo Leon, Mexico. To test whether these additional populations support the existence of two subspecies, we performed a taxonomic reassessment combining molecular markers (cytochrome oxidase I), morphological characters used in the original description, and newly described morphological characters. Phylogenetic analysis of 89 haplotypes confirms that the Mexican populations are distinct from the sampled populations in the United States and Canada. Morphological analysis indicates that intraspecific variation is greater than previously considered within Mexican populations. However, at least seven characters on the head, pronotum, and elytra (including three previously undescribed characters of frons sculpture) consistently discriminate among Canada—U.S. and Mexico populations. The extension of the known distribution of this beetle in Mexico and verification of its subspecific status will aid in the management and conservation of Pseudotsuga in Mexico.
Review of North American Species of the GenusOnychiurus(Collembola: Onychiuridae), with a Description of Four New Species from Caves
Authors: Pomorski Romuald J , Furgoł Michał , Christiansen Kenneth
Published: October 2009

The history of the genus Onychiurus is discussed. Four new Onychiurus species are described from North American caves: steinmanni and nathanieli from Colorado, reluctoides from Indiana, and furcisetosus from Virginia. Onychiurus reluctus Christiansen, 1961 is redescribed. A key for all of the known North American species is provided.
Life History and Laboratory Rearing of Corimelaena incognita (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Thyreocoridae), with Descriptions of Immature Stages
Authors: Bundy C Scott , McPherson J E
Published: October 2009

The life history of Corimelaena incognita (McAtee & Malloch) (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Thyreocoridae) was studied in southern New Mexico from August 2005 through November 2007, and the immature stages were described. The bug also was reared from egg to adult under controlled laboratory conditions. Adults of this bivoltine species overwintered in leaf litter, emerged in early February, and began feeding on dried fruits of Leucophyllum frutescens (Berlandier) from the previous year, the only host plant observed for this bug; they and their offspring, collectively, fed on the current year's fruit throughout the season until early December. Eggs were found from early April through late September and laid singly, usually glued beneath the bracts of developing fruits. Nymphs were found from late April through late November. This species was reared in the laboratory on fruits of L. frutescens at 25 ± 0.01°C under a photoperiod of 14:10 (L:D) h. The incubation period averaged 8.33 d. The five stadia averaged 7.27, 4.10, 4.51, 4.90, and 8.54 d, respectively. Instars can be distinguished by differences in morphological features including, among others, body size and punctation.
Developmental Stages and Castes of Two Sympatric Subterranean Termites Macrotermes gilvus and Macrotermes carbonarius (Blattodea: Termitidae)
Authors: Neoh Kok-Boon , Lee Chow-Yang
Published: October 2009

The developmental stages and castes of two sympatric subterranean termites, Macro-termes gilvus (Hagen) and Macrotermes carbonarius (Hagen) (Blattodea: Termitidae) were studied and biometric descriptors of each caste were developed for the identification of both species. Biometric descriptors revealed five well-defined groups of larval castes. After sex determination, three larval instars were detected in the development of minor and major worker castes. The first larval instars consist of both males and females which are homogenous in size. Size sexual dimorphism, in which females are smaller than males, occurs in the second larval instars, third larval instars, and worker castes. Minor and major soldiers are female sterile castes. Pictorial evidence of the fourth larval instar of M. carbonarius is presented herein; the individuals closely resemble minor workers but are poorly pigmented and have a distended abdomen, future presoldier-like mandibles, and a meso- and metanotum. In reproductive caste development, nymphs (derived from the first larval instars) undergo five moults from first to fifth instars before becoming winged termites.
Business Case for Intelligent Well Deployment in a Subsea Development Project - A Case Study
Authors: Ageh E. A. , Uzoh O. J. , Bracewell B. , Abulu M. , Reinders J.
Published: October 2009

A business case to determine the economic value of deploying subsea intelligent well completions in a subsea development project deepwater West Africa has been developed.

Deployment of smart well technology in the base case development of the case field provides an opportunity to develop 20% incremental reserves that would otherwise be uneconomical to develop without the ability to use a multi-zone completion solution. This results in a 50% gain (risked gain) in NPV for the project. The method is based on an analysis of possible completion failure scenarios, the probability of occurrence of these scenarios and the reliability of the downhole intelligent completion equipment. The cost analysis carried out, weighed the benefit of smart wells against conventional and stacking (commingling of zones) completion types. CAPEX was risked using Decision Tree analysis with data input from a wide range of data bases including fields in the Nigerian DeepWater blocks.
Optimizing Hydrocarbon Volume Analysis in Heterogeneous Reservoirs in the Niger Delta
Authors: Martey Amarquaye , Otevwemerhuere Joseph
Published: October 2009

An intelligent Petrophysical evaluation is essential to optimize development and production in difficult environments in the Niger Delta because of the challenges in reserve estimation and development strategy. The areas are typically characterized by unconsolidated and laminated sandstones and fluvio-marine or lagoonal shales, where accurate estimation of hydrocarbon saturation and consequently volumes has continued to be a challenge in the evaluation of these shaly sand sequences. Most shaly-sand formations have poorly developed sand packages containing laminations of fine grained rock which cause resistivity values to vary in vertical and horizontal directions (Rv & Rh) masking the resistivity contrast when using conventional induction resistivity measurement. The use of a tri-axial multi-array induction tool overcomes the limitation of a standard induction measurement to account for properties of thin beds and complex dipping formations.

The challenge of interpreting low resistivity contrast sands lies on determining the actual resistivity of coarse grained components and addressing the volumes of fine grained components in the formation which in the past have been a very cumbersome process. However, the application of advanced interpretation workflows to determine the fractional volume of fine grained rock alongside resistivity of coarse grained rock using matrix corrected porosity, vertical and horizontal resistivity measurements enables a quick and easy approach towards estimation of hydrocarbon volumes.

This paper presents an integrated approach for accurate hydrocarbon volumes estimation using triaxial induction measurements of horizontal and vertical resistivity, formation dips and azimuth,, elemental yields from the nuclear spectroscopy tool to quantify mineral volumes with traditional environmentally corrected neutron-density measurements and validation with fluid samples. Comparison of results with conventional approach show over 50% increase in net pay which points to the implication that a good percentage of wells drilled in the past and analyzed using conventional methods either bypassed or under-estimated hydrocarbon reserves.
Denitrification during Vertical Upwelling at an Alluvium–Diluvium Interface below the Upland Perimeter of a Riparian Paddy
Authors: Eguchi Sadao , Nakajima Yasuhiro , Yabusaki Shiho , Kasuya Masahiro , Shibayama Hiroko , Tsunekawa Ayumi , Imai Katsuhiko
Published: October 2009

Denitrification hotspots in riparian aquifers often develop in a relatively narrow zone at the upland–riparian interface, where nitrate‐rich ground water of upland origin interacts with available soil organic carbon. In riparian paddy fields, denitrification in the aquifer has received less attention than that in the surface water and soil. This study aimed to determine the in situ activity of the denitrification hotspot formed at the vertical interface between the organic alluvial and the nitrate‐rich diluvial aquifers around the depth of 2.0 m below the upland perimeter of riparian paddy, where vertical upwelling dominates the ground water recharge. The mass balances of water and solutes were approximately calculated from the one‐dimensional vertical pressure head and water quality profiles with help of the stable isotopes analyses of water. The confined ground water of adjacent diluvial upland origin, with a high nitrate concentration of 1.72 ± 0.42 mmol L−1, mixed with the nitrate‐deficient unconfined ground water at the alluvium–diluvium interface, and 63% of nitrate was removed by denitrification at a rate of 33 mg N m−2 d−1 and a nitrogen isotope fractionation factor of 0.988. The increase in bicarbonate concentration with the decrease in nitrate concentration suggested a heterotrophic denitrification with a stoichiometry of C:N = 5:4. These results are the first to demonstrate the quantitative importance of denitrification in the aquifer below a riparian paddy in the removal of nitrate from the ground water of upland origin and emphasize the necessity of including this process in models for predicting watershed‐scale surface water and ground water qualities.
Nitrogen Deposition Effects on Carbon Storage and Fungal:Bacterial Ratios in Coastal Sage Scrub Soils of Southern California
Authors: Liu Kun , Crowley David
Published: October 2009

The effects of nitrogen (N) across a deposition gradient on bacterial and fungal degradation pathways were studied in southern California coastal sage scrub soils to determine whether elevated N levels alter microbial community structure and organic matter accumulation. Three sites across an N deposition gradient having low, intermediate, and high levels of atmospheric N deposition were studied for 20 mo. Fungi:bacteria (F:B) biomass ratios were determined by phospholipid fatty acid analysis. Plots at each location included control plots receiving ambient N deposition and treatment plots that were fertilized with an additional 50 kg N ha−1 yr−1 of slow‐release urea. Results showed that organic carbon (C) levels varied seasonally but that F:B ratios were relatively stable and similar across the three locations and over time. Total organic C decreased in response to N additions only at the low N deposition site. The results suggest that organic matter degradation pathways leading to C storage in soils that have been exposed to high levels of atmospheric N deposition are not responsive to additional increases in N and that N effects on organic C in semiarid soils may be significant only in areas with prior low exposure to N pollution.
Litter Contributions to Dissolved Organic Matter and Disinfection Byproduct Precursors in California Oak Woodland Watersheds
Authors: Chow Alex T. , Lee Seong‐Tae , O'Geen Anthony T. , Orozco Tony , Beaudette Dylan , Wong Po‐Keung , Hernes Peter J. , Tate Ken W. , Dahlgren Randy A.
Published: October 2009

Export of dissolved organic matter (DOM) from California oak woodland ecosystems is of a great concern because DOM is a precursor for carcinogenic disinfection byproducts (DBPs) formed during drinking water treatment. Fresh litter and decomposed duff materials for the four dominant vegetation components of California oak woodlands: blue oak (Quercus douglassi H. & A.), live oak (Quercus wislizenii A. DC.), foothill pine (Pinus sabiniana Dougl.), and annual grasses, were exposed in natural condition for an entire rainy season (December to May) to evaluate their contributions of particulate (POC) and dissolved (DOC) organic carbon, particulate (PON) and dissolved (DON) organic nitrogen, inorganic nitrogen (NH4+ and NO3−), and trihalomethane (THM) and haloacetonitrile (HAN) formation potentials, to surface waters. Litter and duff materials can be significant sources of DOC (litter = 29– 126 mg DOC g−1 C; duff = 6.5–37 mg DOC g−1 C) and THMs and HANs (up to 4600 mg‐THMs g‐C−1 and 137 μg‐HANs g‐C−1). Blue oak litter had the highest yield of DOC, THM, and HAN precursors. When scaled to the entire watershed, leachate production yielded 445 kg‐DOC ha−1, as compared to DOC export via streams of 5.25 kg‐DOC ha−1 DOC transport to surface waters is facilitated by subsurface lateral flow through A horizons during storm events. The majority of DOM and DBP precursors was leached from plant materials in the initial rainfall events and thus may explain the seasonal stream pattern of a DOC pulse early in the rainy season.
Effects of Hydrology and Field Management on Phosphorus Transport in Surface Runoff
Authors: Buda Anthony R. , Kleinman Peter J.A. , Srinivasan M.S. , Bryant Ray B. , Feyereisen Gary W.
Published: October 2009

Phosphorus (P) losses from agricultural landscapes arise from the interaction of hydrologic, edaphic, and management factors, complicated by their spatial and temporal variability. We monitored sites along two agricultural hillslopes to assess the effects of field management and hydrology on P transfers in surface runoff at different landscape positions. Surface runoff varied by landscape position, with saturation excess runoff accounting for 19 times the volume of infiltration excess runoff at the north footslope position, but infiltration excess runoff dominated at upslope landscape positions. Runoff differed significantly between south and north footslopes, coinciding with the extent of upslope soil underlain by a fragipan. Phosphorus in runoff was predominantly in dissolved reactive form (70%), with the highest concentrations associated with upper landscape positions closest to fields serving as major sources of P. However, the largest loads of P were from the north footslope, where runoff volumes were 24 times larger than from all other sites combined. Loads of P from the north footslope appeared to be primarily chronic transfers of desorbed soil P. Although runoff from the footslope likely contributed directly to stream flow and hence to stream water quality, 27% of runoff P from the upslope sites did not connect directly with stream flow. Findings of this study will be useful for evaluating the critical source area concept and metrics such as the P‐Index.