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Abstract:The cost of high-resolution water sampling devices for ecological studies and water quality analyses can be prohibitive. Moreover, the potential for operator error in the use of complicated sampling equipment can lead to inaccuracies. Here we describe the construction and operation of an inexpensive and easy-to-use water sampler that achieves a water column sampling resolution of approximately 1 cm. The device is driven by a peristaltic pump and is constructed entirely of non-corrosive and non-reactive materials. The sampler has no moving parts and was completely reliable in fieldwork on temperate and Antarctic lakes. The device is especially suited for the collection of water samples from calm or stagnant surface waters, such as lakes, ponds, reservoirs, and deep swamps or other wetlands. In addition, because its components are unaffected by corrosive salts and sulfides, the device is suitable for sampling calm inlet waters, including shallow bays and estuaries. Because of its low cost, simple construction, compact design, and precision performance, this water sampler is an excellent option for studying and monitoring shallow to moderately deep (<50 m) natural waters.

We report the case of a 65-year-old black man who presented to our facility with pseudo-obstruction of the bowel within two weeks of the initiation of oral sustained-release procainamide hydrochloride therapy. The syndrome continued despite conversion to intravenous procainamide and only resolved after discontinuation of the medication. We believe that the anticholinergic properties of procainamide, coupled with the patient's diabetes, contributed to severe hypomotility of the gastrointestinal tract and, subsequently, a pseudo-obstructive state. The syndrome of drug-induced pseudo-obstruction is also reviewed.