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Ocean acidification effects on marine microbial communities

Lina Hansson — Tue, 07 May 2013 19:03:45 +0000

Anthropogenic CO2 emissions are causing an acidification of the world’s oceans. The consequences for marine organisms and especially heterotrophic bacteria remain under debate, and almost nothing is known concerning marine fungi. Both microbial groups are important players in organic matter decomposition and nutrient cycling, and their pH tolerance is known to be broad in relation to the predicted acidification. So far, ocean acidification effects on marine bacterial communities have mainly been investigated in large-scale mesocosm studies. In these systems, indirect effects mediated through complex food web interactions come into play. Until now, these experiments were not carried out in sufficient replication. In this thesis, we chose an alternative approach and investigated bacterial and fungal communities in highly replicated microcosm experiments (1-1.6 L). The duration of the experiments was four weeks. We incubated the natural microbial community from Helgoland Roads (North Sea) at in situ seawater pH, pH 7.82 and pH 7.67. These pH levels represent the present-day situation and acidification at atmospheric CO2 of 700 or 1000 ppm, projected for the southern North Sea for the year 2100. For the bacterial community, different dilution approaches were used to select for different ecological groups. Seasonality was accounted for by repeating the experiment four times (spring, summer, autumn, winter). In a second experiment repeated in two consecutive years, we investigated direct pH effects on marine fungal communities. We additionally isolated marine yeasts and identified them by Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and partial sequencing of the large subunit (LSU) rRNA gene. To reveal changes in community structure, we applied the culture-independent fingerprint method automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) for both bacteria and fungi. Bacterial communities were furthermore analyzed by 16S ribosomal amplicon pyrosequencing. Abundances were determined by flow cytometry (bacteria) and colony forming unit counts (fungi). To be able to interpret results comprehensively, we determined the natural variability of the carbonate system at Helgoland Roads over a yearly cycle. We found that from September 2010 to September 2011, pH at Helgoland Roads ranged from 8.06 to 8.43, corresponding to partial pressures of carbon dioxide (pCO2) of 215-526 µatm. The acidification predicted for the year 2100 consequently represents a strong perturbation of the system. Bacterial communities developing in the microcosms were primarily influenced by season and dilution, demonstrating that diverse communities had been generated. We predominantly found pH-dependent shifts in bacterial community structure already at pH 7.82. Groups involved in these shifts were different members of Gammaproteobacteria, Flavobacteriaceae, Rhodobacteraceae, Campylobacteraceae and further less abundant groups. While Rhodobacteraceae were consistently less characteristic for reduced pH, Campylobacteraceae profited from pH reduction. For most other bacterial groups however, pH effects were context-dependent, i.e. dependent on season, dilution or an interaction of effects. Regarding bacterial abundance, no pH effect was found. Fungal community structure was significantly different between both years of the experiment, hinting at inter-annual variability. Shifts in response to pH occurred predominantly only at pH 7.67. In contrast, a strong pH effect was observed on fungal abundance. In comparison to in situ pH, fungal numbers were on average 9 times higher at pH 7.82 and 34 times higher at pH 7.67. Concerning marine yeasts, Leucosporidium scottii, Rhodotorula mucilaginosa and related species, as well as Cryptococcus sp. and Debaromyces hansenii reacted positively to low pH. Our findings demonstrate that already small reductions in pH have direct effects on both bacterial and fungal communities. A tipping point for community shifts appears to be reached earlier for bacteria than for fungi. Regarding bacteria and yeasts, both naturally abundant groups and rare species were affected by pH reductions. The strong increase in fungal numbers at reduced pH suggests that with ocean acidification, marine fungi may reach higher importance in marine biogeochemical cycles and as infectious agents. Using a microcosm approach, a robust analysis of direct ocean acidification effects on marine bacterial and fungal communities was accomplished. Results yield valuable hypotheses to test in future large-scale and long-term studies.

Krause E., 2012. Ocean acidification effects on marine microbial communities. PhD thesis, Universität Hamburg, 128 p. Thesis.

Food availability and pCO2 impacts on planulation, juvenile survival, and calcification of the azooxanthellate scleractinian coral, Balanophyllia elegans

Lina Hansson — Tue, 07 May 2013 18:45:27 +0000

Ocean acidification, the assimilation of atmospheric CO₂ by the oceans that decreases the pH and CaCO₃ saturation state (Ω) of seawater, is projected to have severe consequences for calcifying organisms. Strong evidence suggests that tropical reef-building corals containing algal symbionts (zooxanthellae) will experience dramatic declines in calcification over the next century. The responses of azooxanthellate corals to ocean acidification are less well understood, and because they cannot obtain extra photosynthetic energy from symbionts, they provide a system for studying the direct effects of acidification on the energy available for calcification. The orange cup coral Balanophyllia elegans is a solitary, azooxanthellate scleractinian species common on the California coast where it thrives in the low pH waters of an upwelling regime. During an 8 month study, we addressed the effects of three pCO₂ treatments (410, 770, and 1230 μatm) and two feeding frequencies (High Food and Low Food) on adult Balanophyllia elegans planulation (larval release) rates, and on the survival, growth, and calcification of their juvenile offspring. Planulation rates were affected by food level but not pCO₂, while juvenile survival was highest under 410 μatm and High Food conditions. Our results suggest that feeding rate has a greater impact on calcification of B. elegans than pCO₂. Net calcification was positive even at 1230 μatm (~ 3 times current atmospheric pCO₂), although the increase from 410 to 1230 μatm reduced overall calcification by ~ 25–45%, and reduced skeletal density by ~ 35–45%. Higher pCO₂ also altered aragonite crystal morphology significantly. We discuss how feeding frequency affects azooxanthellate coral calcification, and how B. elegans may respond to ocean acidification in coastal upwelling waters.

Crook, E. D., Cooper, H., Potts, D. C., Lambert, T. & Paytan, A., 2013. Food availability and pCO₂ impacts on planulation, juvenile survival, and calcification of the azooxanthellate scleractinian coral, Balanophyllia elegans. Biogeosciences Discussions 10: 7761-7783. Article.

Getting feedback

Dr Mark Hassed — Mon, 06 May 2013 21:38:09 +0000

Here’s an idea that will allow you to improve the quality and predictability of your work.

Have a meeting with your main dental laboratory and get their honest feedback on your work.

Ask them what you are doing right and also what you are doing wrong and the ways you could improve.

You’ll need to promise them that you won’t “shoot the messenger” even if they tell you some very unpleasant truths.

A very common mistake is underpreparation for crowns. You can tell the tooth has been underprepared if you see opaque showing through or the crown is too bulbous. Are you giving your laboratory sufficient clearance?

Another mistake is unclear impressions. Are you taking good impressions?

I’m sure you get the idea.

Done well this idea can really help upgrade your quality of work.

The Relaxed Dentist, Dr Mark Hassed, speaks to dentists and dental teams on reducing stress and increasing profitability of their practices. He’s available for talks to study groups and conferences. Please click here for further information.

GOVERNMENT INSTITUTION!

hwnafrica — Mon, 06 May 2013 17:59:52 +0000

United States Mission Abuja
Vacancy Announcement
Ref. No. 2013-025
Date: May 2, 2013
Subject: LABORATORY SYSTEMS SPECIALIST
Location: ABUJA – CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION (CDC)
Applicability:
ALL INTERESTED CANDIDATES
OPEN TO: All Interested Candidates
POSITION TITLE: Laboratory Systems Specialist –
FSN-10/FP – 05/5
OPENING DATE: May 2, 2013
CLOSING DATE: May 15, 2013
WORK HOURS: Full-time; 40 hours/week
SALARY: OR – Ordinarily Resident-N4,069,778 per annum
(Starting basic Salary) Position Grade: FSN-10
In addition to the basic salary, all allowances will be paid in
accordance with the U.S. Mission Local Compensation Plan(LCP).
NOR-Not Ordinarily Resident:
AEFM – US$56,323 (*Salary to be determined by Washington)
EFM/MOH – US$48,338 per annum (Starting salary)
Position Grade: FP-05/5.
NOTE: ALL NOT ORDINARILY RESIDENT
APPLICANTS MUST HAVE THE
REQUIRED WORK AND RESIDENCY PERMITS TO BE ELIGIBLE FOR CONSIDERATION. A U.S. CITIZEN EFM DOES NOT HAVE TO BE RESIDING IN
COUNTRY TO BE CONSIDERED, BUT THE SPONSORING OFFICER UNDER COM AUTHORITY DOES HAVE TO BE OFFICIALLY ASSIGNED TO POST.
The U.S. Embassy in Abuja is seeking to employ suitable and qualified candidate for the
Laboratory Systems Specialist position in the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Nigeria
office in Abuja – Nigeria.
BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION:
Under the supervision of the Laboratory Services Team Lead, the incumbent serves as the
Activity Manager for PEPFAR funded Laboratory portfolios of one or more CDC supported
cooperative agreements (CoAGs). The incumbent serves as a key contributor to the planning, development, and review of these
CoAGs which are part of the Annual Country Operational Plan (COP) for Nigeria. The incumbent provides technical expertise to the Nigeria President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) implementing partners (IPs) as well as to the Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH). Among the functions of the incumbent are:
Provide laboratory technical expertise and assistance to FMoH and IPs on laboratory quality management systems (QMS), with focus on laboratory management mentorship to attain national and international accreditation;
build and strengthen capacities of IPs and FMoH laboratory services in support of HIV/AIDS, TB, Malaria and other diseases. The incumbent provides direct support to IPs and FMoH in ensuring quality of HIV testing
service through training and technical assistance.
To obtain a copy of this announcement please visit our Mission websites at:

http://nigeria.usembassy.gov/

about_the_us_mission.html.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
NOTE: All applicants MUST address each selection criterion detailed below with specific
and comprehensive information supporting each criterion or the application will not be considered.
1. A Bachelors of Science degree or higher in one of the following: Chemistry, Medical Laboratory Sciences, Biology, Microbiology, or related laboratory science degree is required.
2. Minimum of four (4) years of experience in a multi-disciplinary hospital or health department laboratory is required.
3. The applicant should possess training in laboratory systems management with specialized training in TB/HIV testing and
diagnostic tests supporting both TB and HIV treatment (CD4, hematology, viral load, blood, chemistry…etc)
4. Applicant should possess knowledge of advance laboratory procedures, diagnosis and
management related to HIV/AIDS, Laboratory QMS as well as knowledge of the public health laboratory systems in Nigeria.
5. Level IV (Fluency) Speaking/Writing in English is required.
6. Must have basic computer skills with proficiency in word processing and spreadsheets.
SELECTION PROCESS:
When fully qualified, U.S. Citizen Eligible Family Member (USEFMs) and U.S. Veterans are given preference. Therefore, it is essential that the candidate specifically address the required qualifications above in the application.
ADDITIONAL SELECTION CRITERIA:
1. Management will consider nepotism/conflict of interest, budget, and residency status in
determining successful candidacy.
2. Current employees serving a probationary period are not eligible to apply.
3. Current Ordinarily Resident employees with an Overall Summary Rating of Needs
Improvement or Unsatisfactory on their most recent Employee Performance Report are not eligible to apply.
4. Currently employed NORs hired under a Personal Services Agreement (PSA) are ineligible to apply for advertised positions within the first 90 calendar days of their employment unless currently hired into a position with a When Actually Employed
(WAE) work schedule.
HOW TO APPLY:
Interested applicants for this position MUST submit the following, or the application will
not be considered:
1. Application for U.S. Federal Employment (DS-174); or a current resume or curriculum vitae that provides the same
information as a DS-174; plus.
2. Candidates who claim U.S. Veterans preference must provide a copy of their Form DD- 214 with their application.
3. Any other documentation (e.g., essays, certificates, awards, copies of degrees earned)
that addresses the qualification requirements of the position as listed above.
4. A type-written and signed application letter specifically applying for this position,
and addressing the minimum requirements as advertised. Please reference the job
title and announcement number on the application letter.
SUBMIT APPLICATION TO:
Embassy of the United States of America;
Human Resources Office
Plot 1075 Diplomatic Drive
Central District Area
Abuja – Nigeria.

Or submit to

HRNigeria@state.gov

POINT OF CONTACT:
Tel: 09-461-4000 Ext 4280
Fax: 09-461-4036
DEFINITIONS
1. US Citizen Eligible Family Member (USEFM) – For purposes of receiving a preference in hiring for a qualified position, an EFM who meets the following criteria:
US Citizen; and, EFM (see above) at least 18 years old; and,
Listed on the travel orders of a direct-hire Foreign, Civil, or uniformed service member assigned to or stationed abroad with a USG agency that is under COM authority, or at an office of the American Institute in Taiwan; and either:
1. Resides at the sponsoring employee’s or uniformed service member’s post of assignment abroad or at an office of the
American Institute in Taiwan; or
2. Resides at an Involuntary Separate Maintenance Allowance (ISMA) location authorized under 3 FAM 3232.2.2. EFM: An individual related to a US
Government employee in one of the following ways:
Spouse; Child, who is unmarried and under 21 years of age or, regardless of age, is incapable of self-support. The term shall include, in addition to natural offspring, stepchildren and adopted children and those under legal guardianship of the employee or the spouse when such children are expected to be
under such legal guardianship until they reach 21 years of age and when dependent upon and normally residing with the
guardian.
3. Member of Household (MOH) – An individual who accompanies a direct-hire Foreign, Civil, or uniformed service member permanently assigned or stationed at a U.S. Foreign
Service post or establishment abroad, or at an
office of the American Institute in Taiwan. An MOH is:
Not an EFM; and, Not on the travel orders of the sponsoring
employee; and, Has been officially declared by the sponsoring USG employee to the COM as part of his/her household.
A MOH is under COM authority and may include a parent, unmarried partner, other relative
or adult child who falls outside the Department’s current legal and statutory definition of
family member. A MOH does not have to be a US Citizen.
4. Not Ordinarily Resident (NOR) – An individual who:
Is not a citizen of the host country; and, Does not ordinarily reside (OR, see below) in the
host country; and, Is not subject to host country employment and
tax laws; and, Has a US Social Security Number (SSN).
NOR employees are compensated under a GS or FS salary schedule, not under the LCP.
5. Ordinarily Resident (OR) – A Foreign National or US citizen who: Is locally resident; and,
Has legal, permanent resident status within the host country; and, Is subject to host country employment and tax laws.
EFMs without US Social Security Numbers are also OR. All OR employees, including US citizens, are compensated in accordance with the LCP.
NB: The U.S. Mission in Nigeria provides equal opportunity, fair and equitable.

GOVERNMENT FACILITY!

dwnafrica — Mon, 06 May 2013 17:50:42 +0000

http://nigeria.usembassy.gov/

Or submit to

HRNigeria@state.gov

Atlantean Underground Laboratory

Cosmick Traveler — Mon, 06 May 2013 15:26:41 +0000

During a certain period in my life, when I was relaxed and dozing, I would get memories of an underg

Bottle Top Dispensers

tyleevw — Fri, 03 May 2013 16:26:57 +0000

Bottle top dispensers are designed for safe reagent handling. They fit securely onto the top of a bottle to provide the best possible protection against contact with caustic media such as solvents. If you are in the market for a bottle top dispenser for your lab, there are a few points you need to consider prior to making your purchase.

Autoclavabitlity - How will you clean it? Many of us use an autoclave for cleaning. If that’s you, make sure you purchase a dispenser that is fully autoclavable. If you don’t mind putting in a little elbow grease, there are options that are not autoclavable or partially autoclavable.

Range – Bottle top dispensers come in a wide variety of ranges. Make sure you invest in one that will cover the entire range you need.

Calibration – You want to be sure your dispenser will work with you for your needs of accuracy. Look for things like solid calibration, and the ability to adjust calibration in lab. This can be a tricky process on some models, so be sure to ask about that before making the purchase.

Volume Setting – How easy is it to set your volume requirements? How important is that to you? If it’s sort of difficult, but you only have to set it once in a while, it might be worth the cost savings.

Chemical Sensitivity – If you will be working with aggressive liquids and acids, make sure your dispenser is chemically resistant to them.

Warranty – Most bottle top dispensers have some type of warranty. Inquire with your dealer to find out if there is a 1, 2 or 3 year warranty.

Display – Do you need digital or analog display options?

Shopping for any piece of lab equipment can be a daunting task. This list gives you a quick starting point of features that you should evaluate before making your purchase of a bottle top dispenser. Shop bottle top dispensers at CapitolScientific.com, where you can find them by BrandTech, EMD Millipore, Eppendorf, JT Baker and Wheaton.

Art Show Opening

jhv57 — Fri, 03 May 2013 13:27:46 +0000

Monotype aquatint etching
1/1

Showing one of my aquatint etching monotypes from the series:”Natural History”,’Natural History: Memories”.

Group exhibit juried by Ginny Sykes With concurrent group exhibit Humans Being II curated by Riva Lehrer

May 10 – June 20, 2013 / Opening Reception: Friday, May 10, 6–9 p.m.

CHICAGO — Woman Made Gallery (WMG) presents a group exhibition with works by 21 artists, juried by Ginny Sykes. Body and Brain is an exhibit that focuses on the relationship between mind and body, with interpretations in a variety of media including painting, sculpture, video, and photography works.

Ginny Sykes’ work includes painting, performance, installation, film, and public art. She has exhibited in national and international exhibitions. Her public artwork includes private commissions, community based projects, schools, parks, and civic spaces. Sykes has taught in both the Museum and the School of

the Art Institute of Chicago, the Evanston Art Center and Lill Street Arts Center and is an Illinois Arts Council Roster Artist. Sykes is a core artist with Chicago Public Art Group. Her work is included in the publications A Guide to Chicago Murals, Urban Art Chicago, andThe Chicago Public Art Guide. Sykes is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in the Women and Gender Studies Department at Loyola University, Chicago, Illinois.

Included artists are Nicole Alger, Aviva Alter, Marcia Babler, Sharon Bladholm, Robin Carlson, Jennifer Chammas, Susan Emmerson, Sharon Gilmore, Polly Greathouse, Judith Hladik-Voss, Hannamari Jalovaara, Elizabeth Jameson, Hannah King, Rahshia Linendoll-Sawyer, Roberta Malkin, Maryellen Murphy, Sally Raab, Nirmal Raja, Kathryn Shinko, Jennifer Tiner, Kathy Weaver, and Gail Willert.

Woman Made Gallery 685 N. Milwaukee Ave. Chicago, IL 60642 Website: http://www.womanmade.org

Gallery Hours: Wed–Fri noon–7p.m. / Sat–Sun noon–4p.m. / Admission: Free

Woman Made Gallery is supported in part by grants from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency; a CityArts Program II grant from the City of Chicago, Department of Cultural Affairs; the Arts Work Fund for Organizational Development, a donor-advised fund of the Chicago Community Trust; the Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation; The Efroymson Family Fund, a CICF Fund; a major anonymous donor; and the generosity of its members and contributors.

Marine fungi may benefit from ocean acidification

Lina Hansson — Fri, 03 May 2013 09:00:36 +0000

Recent studies have discussed the consequences of ocean acidification for bacterial processes and diversity. However, the decomposition of complex substrates in marine environments, a key part of the flow of energy in ecosystems, is largely mediated by marine fungi. Although marine fungi have frequently been reported to prefer low pH levels, this group has been neglected in ocean acidification research. We present the first investigation of direct pH effects on marine fungal abundance and community structure. In microcosm experiments repeated in 2 consecutive years, we incubated natural North Sea water for 4 wk at in situ seawater pH (8.10 and 8.26), pH 7.82 and pH 7.67. Fungal abundance was determined by colony forming unit (cfu) counts, and fungal community structure was investigated by the culture-independent fingerprint method Fungal Automated Ribosomal Intergenic Spacer Analysis (F-ARISA). Furthermore, pH at the study site was determined over a yearly cycle. Fungal cfu were on average 9 times higher at pH 7.82 and 34 times higher at pH 7.67 compared to in situ seawater pH, and we observed fungal community shifts predominantly at pH 7.67. Currently, surface seawater pH at Helgoland Roads remains >8.0 throughout the year; thus we cannot exclude that fungal responses may differ in regions regularly experiencing lower pH values. However, our results suggest that under realistic levels of ocean acidification, marine fungi will reach greater importance in marine biogeochemical cycles. The rise of this group of organisms will affect a variety of biotic interactions in the sea.

Krause E., Wichels A., Giménez L. & Gerdts G., 2013. Marine fungi may benefit from ocean acidification. Aquatic Microbial Ecology 69: 59-67. Article (subscription required).

What Can a LIMS System Do For Your Laboratory?

birlamedi — Fri, 03 May 2013 07:28:48 +0000

A laboratory information management system is software which is usually, but by no means always used in a laboratory setting. A LIMS system is used to manage and track materials and data including samples and instruments, work flow, invoicing, reporting and a variety of other functions.

These information management systems may either be designed for a relatively narrow range of capabilities or built to be a flexible, versatile system which can handle tracking and management of any task in the laboratory.

These systems are also widely used by companies who manufacture goods; the same kind of functionality which makes a laboratory information management system nearly indispensable in a high sample volume laboratory environment also suits LIMS systems to use in industrial scale production processes. There are many similarities between these software systems and process development and laboratory information systems, though they may be used in nearly any environment where the storage, management and retrieval of large amounts of data is mission critical.

Birlamedisoft – MaximLIMS

The systems are used far beyond the medical and scientific fields, being part of production and quality control systems in the pharmaceutical, petrochemical and nuclear energy sectors, environmental analysis, water testing and many other applications across a broad spectrum of economic sectors as well as the sciences. In nearly every environment where they are used, LIMS systems are integrated with instruments, whether in the production environment or with measurement instruments or other laboratory equipment when used as a laboratory information management system proper.

With a growing interest in scalability in data management systems, these software solutions offer research institutions and industry a user friendly method of managing large volumes of information across a single laboratory or many different facilities worldwide. These information management systems provide the ability to increase efficiency and throughput in the laboratory or production facility by facilitating automation and reducing the possibility of human error by integrating instruments directly into workflow, one of the chief advantages of LIMS systems.

One of the challenges of managing a laboratory or production facility is ensuring regulatory compliance. Another reason why an increasing number of laboratories are adopting the use of a laboratory information management system is to streamline the regulatory compliance procedures in place in the facility by increasing the level of accountability and improve the accuracy of internal audits, something which many of these systems are designed to carry out.

Not every laboratory has yet begun using these software systems to handle the management and tracking of their samples, reagents, instruments and to monitor workflow and to provide an easy to use framework for the large volumes of data generated by the modern laboratory, but the trend towards LIMS systems is a rapidly growing one. The advantages of these systems is well known, however and it is a near certainty that nearly every laboratory and production facility will have a laboratory information management system in place in the very near future.

Bilramedisoft’s maxim-lis is the one of the best LIMS software all over the globe. Maxim-LIS is online virtual Laboratory management software which allows to operate Pathology labs and Diagnostics Centres through internet.It is Low risk, Maintenance Free software. There are no installations on multiple computers anywhere. Maxim-LIS gets installed only on the server and operates through Browser. It gives high returns on investments. FOr more information visit us on Laboratory Information System or call us on +91 9011026090/+91 9021156156

Neochat #129– April 26, 2013

neochat — Thu, 02 May 2013 20:14:46 +0000

In this special episode we wrap up the War for the Obelisk Plot!

Listen Now:

Download: neochat-129-april-26-2013.mp3

or Subscribe on iTunes >>>

Leave your religion inside and get outside..

mothernatureschildren — Thu, 02 May 2013 17:36:47 +0000

The world cannot agree on a religion, its a personal belief or belief in not believing…
Why fight over it??
For us to work together to unite as a species to protect all types of life on our planet we need to come together as one..
Lets not let religion get in the way!!
We all understand nature is all around us.. mother nature…
We’re created naturally like everything else living (unless in some weird science lab.).
So lets believe in nature!!
You cant say it doesn’t exist, its everywhere.

I think we forget that we are natural, that we aren’t some alien being, we are carbon forms like everything else naturally made on the planet.
We’ve just evolved an amazing brain.
I also believe we have a 6th sense, we read body language without even realising.
Eg. you can tell when someones pissed off without them saying it..

We just rely on our main senses, are ability to talk has taken away the need to rely on our 6th sense..
And its not obvious, we don’t see it so therefore its not there…

I’ve strayed from the point, sorry…

All everyone really wants is to be happy.
Buying ‘things’ wont ever make us happy.
Its a known fact that the poorest countries in the world are the happiest.
They make fun from nothing, together.
We buy a car.. then want another car because were bored of that car and a better models come out…
Same with mobile phones, laptops., cameras..
pretty much any kind of technology that the big guys advertise well.
Making you feel like you NEED these things.. when they actually bring you short term pleasure.
You cant buy happiness remember…

We just need to learn to let go of whatever is separating us.
Remember Bob Marley and Martin Luther King, they helped rid the world of racism and segregation ..
Lets take it further.. and stop religion from separating us too..

Just think about the effect your actions have on everything and everyone around you.
Stop being selfish and greedy.

GIVE. SHARE. SPREAD THE LOVE…

Respiration of Mediterranean cold-water corals is not affected by ocean acidification as projected for the end of the century

Lina Hansson — Thu, 02 May 2013 15:40:35 +0000

The rise of CO₂ has been identified as a major threat to life in the ocean. About one-third of the anthropogenic CO₂ produced in the last 200 yr has been taken up by the ocean, leading to ocean acidification. Surface seawater pH is projected to decrease by about 0.4 unit between the pre-industrial revolution and 2100. The branching cold-water corals Madrepora oculata and Lophelia pertusa are important, habitat-forming species in the deep Mediterranean Sea. Although previous research has investigated the abundance and distribution of these species, little is known regarding their ecophysiology and potential responses to global environmental change. A previous study indicated that the rate of calcification of these two species remained constant up to 1000 μatm CO₂ a value that is at the upper end of changes projected to occur by 2100. We examined whether the ability to maintain calcification rates in the face of rising pCO₂ affected the energetic requirements of these corals. Over the course of three months, rates of respiration were measured at a pCO₂ ranging between 350 and 1100 μatm to distinguish between short-term response and longer-term acclimation. Respiration rates ranged from 0.074 to 0.266 μmol O₂ (g skeletal dry weight)⁻¹ h⁻¹ and 0.095 to 0.725 μmol O₂ (g skeletal dry weight)⁻¹ h⁻¹ for L. and M. oculata, respectively, and were independent of pCO₂. Respiration increased with time likely due to regular feeding which may have provided an increased energy supply to sustain coral metabolism. Future studies are needed to confirm whether the insensitivity of respiration to increasing pCO₂ is a general feature of deep-sea corals in other regions.

Maier C., Bils F., Weinbauer M. G., Watremez P., Peck M. A. & Gattuso J.-P., 2013. Respiration of Mediterranean cold-water corals is not affected by ocean acidification as projected for the end of the century. Biogeosciences Discussions 10: 7617-7640. Article.

End of the century pCO2 levels do not impact calcification in Mediterranean cold-water corals

Lina Hansson — Thu, 02 May 2013 15:02:47 +0000

Ocean acidification caused by anthropogenic uptake of CO₂ is perceived to be a major threat to calcifying organisms. Cold-water corals were thought to be strongly affected by a decrease in ocean pH due to their abundance in deep and cold waters which, in contrast to tropical coral reef waters, will soon become corrosive to calcium carbonate. Calcification rates of two Mediterranean cold-water coral species, Lophelia pertusa and Madrepora oculata, were measured under variable partial pressure of CO₂ (pCO₂) that ranged between 380 µatm for present-day conditions and 930 µatm for the end of the century. The present study addressed both short- and long-term responses by repeatedly determining calcification rates on the same specimens over a period of 9 months. Besides studying the direct, short-term response to elevated pCO₂ levels, the study aimed to elucidate the potential for acclimation of calcification of cold-water corals to ocean acidification. Net calcification of both species was unaffected by the levels of pCO₂ investigated and revealed no short-term shock and, therefore, no long-term acclimation in calcification to changes in the carbonate chemistry. There was an effect of time during repeated experiments with increasing net calcification rates for both species, however, as this pattern was found in all treatments, there is no indication that acclimation of calcification to ocean acidification occurred. The use of controls (initial and ambient net calcification rates) indicated that this increase was not caused by acclimation in calcification response to higher pCO₂. An extrapolation of these data suggests that calcification of these two cold-water corals will not be affected by the pCO₂ level projected at the end of the century.

Maier C., Schubert A., Berzunza Sànchez M. M., Weinbauer M. G., Watremez P. & Gattuso J.-P., 2013. End of the century pCO₂ levels do not impact calcification in Mediterranean cold-water corals. PLoS ONE 8(4): e62655. Article.

Deformities in larvae and juvenile European lobster (Homarus gammarus) exposed to lower pH at two different temperatures

Lina Hansson — Thu, 02 May 2013 12:35:45 +0000

Trends of increasing temperatures and ocean acidification are expected to influence benthic marine resources, especially calcifying organisms. The European lobster (Homarus gammarus) is among those species at risk. A project was initiated in 2011 aiming to investigate long-term synergistic effects of temperature and projected increases in ocean acidification on the life cycle of lobster. Larvae were exposed to pCO₂ levels of ambient water (water intake at 90 m depth, tentatively of 380 μatm pCO₂), 727 and 1217 μatm pCO₂, at temperatures 10 and 18 °C. Long-term exposure lasted until 5 months of age. Thereafter the surviving juveniles were transferred to ambient water at 14 °C. At 18 °C the development from Stage 1 to 4 lasted from 14 to 16 days, as predicted under normal pH values. Growth was very slow at 10 °C and resulted in only two larvae reaching Stage 4 in the ambient treatment. There were no significant differences in carapace length at the various larval stages between the different treatments, but there were differences in total length and dry weight at Stage 1 at 10 °C, Stage 2 at both temperatures, producing larvae slightly larger in size and lighter by dry weight in the exposed treatments. Stage 3 larvae raised in 18 °C and 1217 μatm pCO₂ were also larger in size and heavier by dry weight compared with 727 μatm. Unfortunate circumstances precluded a full comparison across stages and treatment. Deformities were however observed in both larvae and juveniles. At 10 °C, about 20% of the larvae exposed to elevated pCO₂were deformed, compared with 0% in larvae raised in pH above 8.0. At 18 °C and in high pCO₂ treatment, 31.5% of the larvae were deformed. Occurrence of deformities after 5 months of exposure was 33 and 44% in juveniles raised in ambient and low pCO₂, respectively, and 20% in juveniles exposed to high pCO₂. Some of the deformities will possibly affect the ability to find food, sexual partner (walking legs, claw and antenna), respiration (carapace), and ability to swim (tail-fan damages).

Agnalt A.-L., Grefsrud E. S., Farestveit E., Larsen M. & Keulder F., 2013. Deformities in larvae and juvenile European lobster (Homarus gammarus) exposed to lower pH at two different temperatures. Biogeosciences Discussions 10: 7579-7615. Article.

!620 G x 0.01 G Optima Scale OP-S622 Precision, Electronic, Digital, Laboratory, Balance With Rechargeable Battery NEW !!!

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A range of Laboratory work Piece of equipment as well as their Utilizes

Elizabeth Buettner — Thu, 02 May 2013 00:20:30 +0000

Equipments and tools used by scientists in laboratories are known as laboratory apparatus. Different

Barometers

tyleevw — Wed, 01 May 2013 22:15:26 +0000

Barometers are used to measure air pressure and are crucial to accurate weather forecasting. Differences in air pressure between places cause winds to blow: air moves from high toward low pressure. Barometers are even being used now to improve GPS navigation!

Types of Barometers for the Lab
There are several types of barometers for use in laboratories. Here’s a quick rundown:

Mercury Barometers
A mercury barometer has a glass tube from which the air has been removed; the tube is inserted into a dish of mercury. The air pressing down on the mercury in the dish forces some of the mercury up into the glass tube. Due to the toxicity of mercury, these barometers are being phased out.

Water Barometers
The weather ball barometer consists of a glass container with a sealed body, half filled with water. A narrow spout connects to the body. Water levels in the spout are compared to water levels in the ball to determine pressure readings.

Aneroid Barometers
Aneroid barometers are the round chrome or brass type that you’d expect to see on the bridge of a ship. They determine barometric pressure without the use of liquids. An aneroid barometer uses a small, flexible metal box called an aneroid cell (capsule), which is prevented from collapsing by a strong spring. Changes in external air pressure cause the capsule to expand or contract. Mechanical levers amplify the tiny movements of the capsule and are then displayed on the face of the barometer.

Digital Barometers
A digital barometer is an electronic pressure sensor with an analog-to-digital converter and a digital display. They’re generally very easy to use and are they take up little space.

What Barometer Will Fit Your Needs?
Analog vs. Digital – If you want an analog barometer, you can choose a weather ball (the original analog barometer) or an aneroid barometer. There’s a wide variance in the prices of aneroid barometers. Above a certain price level, though, you’re generally paying for better materials and craftsmanship, rather than increased reliability and accuracy. Digital barometers have exploded in popularity for their ease of use and readability.

Traceability – The term measurement traceability is used to refer to an unbroken chain of comparisons relating an instrument’s measurements to a known standard. In the United States, these standards are governed by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Does your lab require a barometer with traceability?

High Elevations – Most barometers have elevation limitations. If you’ll be using your barometer at high elevations, be sure to purchase a product that can perform there. Some barometers can be upgraded for high elevation use; you’ll want to check it out before purchasing is this is of interest to you.

Features – Be sure that the unit you choose meets your needs for Range, Resolution, Accuracy, Temperature Range, and Power Requirements.

CapitolScientific.com includes a range of barometers from manufacturers like H-B Instruments, Control Company, and Oakton, and more. Check out our selection today!

Not Bouncing, Not Misbehaving

Peter Parkour — Wed, 01 May 2013 17:55:40 +0000

The Inside Story

Tiyash — Wed, 01 May 2013 11:46:34 +0000

DAY 1

Last few days have been a little hard on me. From my nice big room which had enough air and sunlight in it, where I was given fresh food ( even though it tasted same every day), I came into this small room which smells a lot of pee and shit and is very noisy. The same species of people who used to give me food and water in my previous room, live in this room too but they are so lazy. They don’t bother to change my water bottle or the food or the husk where I pee and shit . Now, I have got used to the fact by now that I have to live in this weird metal mesh top box like structure but the other-room-people at least gave me a fresh and clean box every day. A relief is that I have my friends with me, these two other guys have been living with me for as long as I can remember. They even helped me get the attention of this girl I liked in one of the other boxes. I used to lift myself up with the help of these friends and do swings by hanging myself on the metal mesh. I saw her smile twice and boy that made my day! However, all that is history now. I have to live in this shitty room which doesn’t have enough cool air and most strangely, sun rises and sets differently in this room. Even my sleep is disturbed. I hate this world.
DAY 5
I am so worried. One of those people just grabbed one of my friends and took him out of my box right now. And it’s been over an hour and he is not back, I can’t even see anything beyond it’s long two limbs to see what it is doing to him. Oh I hope he is okay!
DAY 6
My friend is not back. I think they did something to him. I am beginning to hate this world’s people. Today they crossed all limits. They grabbed me, put me on a table first. When I tried to escape to go back my box they pulled my tail in a way that I could not move a single body part. Then they lifted me up to face them and right there I saw two things. Something very sharp and pointed coming at me and the people/animal’s face who was holding me. It put that pointy thing inside my throat and some bitter thick semi solid stuff went inside and I was almost about to choke. I coughed bad and opened my eyes to see that the animal was smiling. So my pain made it smile. I felt sad and disgusted with it. It did the same thing to me two times more till I was put back in the box. I complained over and over again to my only friend in my box and he tried to calm me down till I just got tired and fell asleep.
DAY 10
The people have been doing the same thing to me over and over again every day for the last 5 days. My friend had been spared so he was strong enough to support me through this. Today however when they took me out to do it again, I had decided I would try my best to run and not give up this time. I was surprised the animal who took me out today, looked smaller, had bigger hair from the head and looked a little scared. I was happy. This was my chance. The moment it tried to hold me tight I turned my head and bit the finger holding me, so tight that I did not let it go even when the screams filled my ears. The animal jerked it’s hand and let me go and I ran for my life. Suddenly when I was just about to jump off, take my leap of faith, I was grabbed with my tail, and held so tight that I felt all the air being pushed out of my lungs. The animal turned me to face it’s face and then I saw, that big face with hair over the face and a beaming smile and suddenly I felt something very sharp and pointed prick my stomach. The pain was too much to take, my insides started burning. Right after I was laid down on this cold place on my back and that animal started pushing pointed things right through my hands and legs to get me stuck to that cold place. Oh god, it was better they killed me. So much for trying to run away. Finally it started to fade, and then It was all dark.

I was scampering around to see what they were doing to him, I could not jump out of it to save him, they had me enclosed in a place with huge walls. Why were they tearing out his insides, will he live after this? Did they kill him? My heart was racing so fast. They did not force feed me the same way, will they do the same to me? And suddenly I saw that bearded faced animal’s hands coming to grasp me with something very sharp and pointed held in the other hand and I knew what was going to happen. Numbness spread through my body and in that last moment of my life all I could think was, dear god, don’t make anyone else ever be born as a lab-rat!

( My attempt to feel a tiny little portion of the immense pain that these little white lab rats go through every day. A tribute to them who sacrifice (or we forcefully take) their lives for a better future for us,Human Beings.)

LABO21 Salon#2 @ Warwick University, UK, 08.-11.05.2013

ivanai — Wed, 01 May 2013 11:31:35 +0000

BADco. is taking part in LABO21 Salon#2

08.-11.05.2013 @ Warwick University, UK

This second Salon of LABO21 will focus on the topic of providing general audiences access to research into artistic methods.

BADco. is co-organizer of LABO21 – European Platform for Interdisciplinary Research on Artistic Methodologies, a partner project of BADco. (Zagreb), Random Dance (London), Troubleyn (Antwerp) and International Choreographic Arts Centre (Amsterdam). With the support of the Culture Programme of the European Union.

—————————————————————————-

BADco. sudjeluje u dogadjanju LABO21 Salon#1

08.-11.05.2013. @ Warwick University, UK

Drugi u nizu Salona LABO21 bavit će se komuniciranjem istraživanja umjetničkih metoda široj javnosti.

BADco. je suorganizator LABO21 – Evropske platforme za interdisciplinarna istraživanja umjetničkih metodologija partnera BADco. (Zagreb), Random Dance (London), Troubleyn (Antwerp) i International Choreographic Arts Centre (Amsterdam). Platforma LABO21 je podržana od programa Kultura Evropske zajednice.

SCHOOL INSTITUTION!

hwnafrica — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:22:24 +0000

The Yobe State University wishes to announce for a suitable candidate for employment into Desert Research, Monitoring and Control Centre.
1. Laboratory Technician.

Qualifications:
Applicants should possess BSc with 1st class/2nd class (upper division)in relevant disciplines

Application Closing Date: 11th May, 2013.

Method Of Application:
Interested and qualified candidates should send their applications and credentials (10 copies each ) to:
Office of Head,
Human Resources Development Division
Yobe State University
Km 7, Gujba Road,
PMB 1144, Damaturu
Yobe State – Nigeria.

SCHOOL FACILITY!

dwnafrica — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:19:44 +0000

The Yobe State University wishes to announce for a suitable candidate for employment into Desert Research, Monitoring and Control Centre.
1. Laboratory Technician.

Qualifications:
Applicants should possess BSc with 1st class/2nd class (upper division)in relevant disciplines

Application Closing Date: 11th May, 2013.

#RealTimeChem Week - Thanks and Feedback

doctorgalactic — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 22:23:43 +0000

Thank you. First of all I’d like to say a big thank you (like the one above, but larger) to ev