bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Iron sources for citrus rootstock development grown on pine bark/vermiculite mixed substrate
Authors: Ferrarezi Rhuanito Soranz , Bataglia Ondino Cleante , Furlani Pedro Roberto , Schammass Eliana Aparecida
Published: November 2007

For high technology seedling production systems, nutrition plays an important role, mainly the fertigation with iron chelates to prevent its deficiency. This study had the goal of searching for alternative iron sources with the same nutrient efficiency but lower cost in relation to nutrient solution total cost. An experiment was carried out in 56 cm³-conic-containers tilled with a pine bark/ vermiculite mixed substrate using Fe-DTPA, Fe-EDDHA, Fe-EDDHMA, Fe-EDTA, Fe-HEDTA, FeCl3, FeSO4, FeSO4+citric acid plus a control, and the rootstocks Swingle, Rangpur, Trifoliata and Cleopatra, in a randomized complete block design, with four replicates. Seedlings were evaluated for height, relative chlorophyll index, total and soluble iron leaf concentrations. Cleopatra was the only rootstock observed without visual iron chlorosis symptoms. There was a low relative chlorophyll index for Rangpur, Swingle and Trifoliata rootstocks in the control plots, in agreement with the observed symptoms. High total iron concentrations were found in the control and Fe-EDTA plots, whereas soluble iron represented only a low percent of the total iron. The economical analysis showed the following cost values of iron sources in relation to the nutrient solution total costs: Fe-HEDTA (37.25%) > FeCl3 (4.61%) > Fe-EDDHMA (4.53%) > Fe-EDDHA (3.35%) > Fe-DTPA (2.91%) > Fe-EDTA (1.08%) > FeSO4+citric acid (0.78%) > FeSO4 (0.25%). However, only plants from Fe-EDDHA and Fe-EDDHMA treatments did not present any deficiency visual symptoms. The relative cost of Fe-EDDHA application is low, its efficiency in maintaining iron available in solution resulted in high plant heights, making it recommendable for citric rootstock production in nurseries.
Growth, development, and fertilizer-15N recovery by the coffee plant
Authors: Fenilli Tatiele Anete Bergamo , Reichardt Klaus , Dourado-Neto Durval , Trivelin Paulo César Ocheuze , Favarin José Laercio , Costa Flávio Murilo Pereira da , Bacchi Osny Oliveira Santos
Published: November 2007

The relationship between growth and fertilizer nitrogen recovery by perenial crops such as coffee is poorly understood and improved understanding of such relations is important for the establishment of rational crop management practices. In order to characterize the growth of a typical coffee crop in Brazil and quantify the recovery of 15N labeled ammonium sulfate, and improve information for fertilizer management practices this study presents results for two consecutive cropping years, fertilized with 280 and 350 kg ha-1 of N, respectively, applied in four splittings, using five replicates. Shoot dry matter accumulation was evaluated every 60 days, separating plants into branches, leaves and fruits. Labeled sub-plots were used to evaluate N-total and 15N abundance by mass spectrometry. During the first year the aerial part reached a recovery of 71% of the fertilizer N applied up to February, but this value was reduced to 34% at harvest and 19% at the beginning of the next flowering period due to leaf fall and fruit export. For the second year the aerial part absorbed 36% of the fertilizer N up to March, 47% up to harvest and 19% up to the beginning of the next flowering period. The splitting into four applications of the used fertilizer rates was adequate for the requirements of the crop at these growth stages of the coffee crop.
Instruction, social economic status and evaluation of some dimensions of octogenarians' quality of life
Authors: Inouye Keika , Pedrazzani Elisete Silva
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVES: To describe the profile of a sample of octogenarians (n=80) attended at the municipal health network of a city in the interior of São Paulo, Brazil; evaluate their perception regarding quality of life dimensions (QoL); identify correlations between socio economic status, education level and QoL. It is an exploratory descriptive study with a quantitative analysis of data. The results revealed that this population is predominantly female, widowed, illiterate, sedentary and poor, who need health services and leisure opportunities, and whose main support is religion. The socio economic status did not interfere in the QoL perception, though, higher education and participation in physical activities result in higher satisfaction.
Poverty: socioeconomic characterization at tuberculosis
Authors: Santos Maria de Lourdes Sperli Geraldes , Vendramini Silvia Helena Figueiredo , Gazetta Claudia Eli , Oliveira Sonia Aparecida Cruz , Villa Tereza Cristina Scatena
Published: November 2007

This study aimed to evaluate the epidemiological status of Tuberculosis regarding to the socioeconomic characteristics of São José do Rio Preto between 1998 and 2004. Indexes estimated for 432 urban census tracts from the demographic census of 2000, sorted systematically according to the values of socioeconomic factors and grouped into quartiles were taken into account. The socioeconomic characterization was outlined based on Schooling, Income, and Number of Residents. The incidence rates were considered for 1998, 1999, 2003, and 2004. The socioeconomic factor accounted for 87% of the total variation. The disease prevalence is higher in the poorest areas. The incidence rate and the risk of being infected by TB in the poorest areas declined in 2003 and 2004. The results confirm that TB is determined by the population's living conditions in the city studied. It strengthens the relevance of understanding the TB conditional social factors to transform the worrisome scenario in which this population is inserted.
Public care policies for child and adolescent victims of domestic violence
Authors: Vendruscolo Telma Sanchez , Ferriani Maria das Graças Carvalho , Silva Marta Angélica Iossi
Published: November 2007

This is a qualitative study that aimed to know and analyze the social representations of social workers regarding the assistance to the child and adolescent, victims of domestic violence. The data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews and participant observation. The data analysis was based on the hermeneutic-dialectic perspective. The empirical categories that emerged from the subjects' representations were: "lack of policy", "do not support because have not received support", and "social assistance" whereas the political economic aspect was highlighted as determinant of violence; the cultural aspects, perpetuating a cycle of violence in the families. An important step must be taken is the formulation of public policies directed to all children and adolescents and not policies of exception, directed only to those who are in situation of "social and personal risk".
Health follow-up of children in poverty situation: between the routine and eventuality of daily care
Authors: Mello Débora Falleiros de , Lima Regina Aparecida Garcia de , Scochi Carmen Gracinda Silvan
Published: November 2007

This study aimed to identify how child care is delivered to children under two in their daily routine. Based on a qualitative approach, the study addresses the care site in the child care, through non-structured interviews with mothers and professionals from two health units in peripheral areas of Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil. Results point aspects of how professionals view the mothers and their families, how the child's health, the routine and eventuality of care are followed. Adherence is important in the child's follow up, the longitudinality of care and, mainly, the concern with the mothers' and families' values. Child care in primary health care has a contingency character; it must deal with eventuality, uncertainty and events linked to experiences, integrating practical and technical knowledge.
Social heterogeneity and children's nutrition in the rural environment
Authors: Rocha Livia , Gerhardt Tatiana Engel , Santos Daniel Labernarde dos
Published: November 2007

OBJECTIVES: this study is inserted in an Interdisciplinary Program of Research and aims to learn about the nutritional situation and life context of children under five in the rural environment of Arambaré/RS, Brazil, through an epidemiological cross-sectional descriptive study. METHOD: the data of anthropometrical assessment (Weight/Age, Age/Height, Weight/Height) expressed in Z scores, whose reference population is that of the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) were analyzed in the Epinut software, and the semi-structured form applied to the child's responsible was analyzed through descriptive statistics in the Epi-Info 6.04. RESULTS: It is evidenced that the nutritional problems vary within the social heterogeneity present in the municipality. There are different levels of vulnerability to illness. CONCLUSION: this study demonstrates the importance of understanding the social dynamics modelling individual behavior that reflects on health.
Talking about sexuality, STI and AIDS with poor adolescents
Authors: Murakami Juliana Kelli , Petrilli Filho José Fernando , Telles Filho Paulo Celso Prado
Published: November 2007

This study aimed to report an educative action experience on sexuality/STI/Aids in an adolescent group living in a poor context. The study site was a Family Health Unit located in a city in the interior of São Paulo, Brazil. Six female adolescents participated in the educative actions, and each of the five meetings took 70 minutes on the average. The educative action allowed for knowledge/action based on a network of interlaced gestures, words and affections, permeating new constructions. Thus, new meanings emerged, not only for the adolescents, who discovered the power of being in the group, but also for the researchers, who managed to visualize other horizons for the work with highly vulnerable groups in society.
Strategies to combat poverty and their interface with health promotion
Authors: Oliveira Simone Helena dos Santos , Monteiro Maria Adelane Alves , Lopes Maria do Socorro Vieira , Brito Daniele Mary Silva de , Vieira Neiva Francenely Cunha , Barroso Maria Grasiela Teixeira , Ximenes Lorena Barbosa
Published: November 2007

The population impoverishment is a social reality whose overcoming is necessary so that we can think about health as a positive concept. This study proposes a reflection on the coping strategies adopted by the Conjunto Palmeira, a Brazilian community in the Northeast, and their interface with health promotion. This community's reality is an example of overcoming social exclusion for different regions of Brazil and other countries. The history of the Conjunto and the collective strategies of empowerment for coping with poverty and search for human development are initially presented. After that, we establish the relationship of those strategies with the action fields for health promotion. Finally, we consider that the mutual responsibility of the community with its health and its relationship with the environment in which they live are means of promoting transformation towards the conquest of a worthy social space.
Brunelleschi's mirror, Alberti's window, and Galileo's 'perspective tube'
Authors: Edgerton Samuel Y.
Published: November 2007

This essay argues that the advent of linear perspective, ca. 1425, when Filippo Brunelleschi painted a small panel of the Florentine Baptistery by applying the geometric rules of optical mirror reflection, was more than just an artistic event. Indeed, it subsequently had the most profound - and quite unanticipated - influence on the rise of modern science. Surely, by 1609, Galileo would not have understood what he saw when observing the moon through his newly invented optical telescope, then called the 'perspective tube,' had it not been for his training in perspective drawing. Yet, Brunelleschi's original dependence on the mirror two centuries earlier was intended not to reveal objective 'scientific' reality, but rather to reinforce Christian spiritual 'reality.' In 1435-6, Leon Battista Alberti, when codifying Brunelleschi's perspective in his famous "Treatise on Painting," substituted a gridded window for Brunelleschi's mirror, thus redirecting the purpose of perspective art away from revealing God's divine order as reflected on earth, to a more secular physical reality viewed directly in relation to human moral order.
Imagens constituindo narrativas: fotografia, saúde coletiva e construção da memória na escrita da história local
Authors: Reznik Luís , Araújo Marcelo da Silva
Published: November 2007

Analisa os sentidos que emanam do conjunto de fotografias colecionadas por Luiz Palmier (1893-1955) sobre o Hospital de São Gonçalo, município da região metropolitana do estado do Rio de Janeiro. As imagens constituem uma narrativa sugestiva dos progressos experimentados nessa localidade, especialmente no campo da saúde, constituindo um paradigma para a modernidade nas décadas de 1930 e 1940. Luiz Palmier, médico fundador daquela instituição de saúde, destacou-se como personalidade relevante para a história local e suas ressonâncias em níveis mais ampliados (regional e nacional).
Selección tecnico-economica de emisores
Authors: Holzapfel Eduardo A. , Abarca Willams A. , Paz Vital P. da S. , Arumi José L. , Rodriguez Antonieta , Orrego Ximena , Lopez Marco A.
Published: November 2007

El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo estudiar los factores que intervienen en la selección técnico económico de goteros. En el estudio fueron utilizados emisores autocompensados y no autocompensados, considerando a los aspectos técnicos como porcentaje de suelo humedecido, número de emisores por planta y coeficiente de uniformidad y precio y la presión de operación del emisor como aspectos económicos. Los resultados muestran que la presión de operación de los emisores es el factor más importante a considerar en la selección, ya que para valores más bajos de presión de operación se obtuvieron menores valores de costo total anualizado, independiente del tipo de gotero. En general, los goteros no autocompesados presentaron valores de costo anualizado menores, para un rango de presión similar. Finalmente el análisis tecnico-económico en la selección de emisores es un procedimiento importante.
Análisis técnico-económico para selección de aspersores
Authors: Holzapfel Eduardo A. , Pardo Ximena M. , Paz Vital P. da S. , Rodrigues Antonieta , Orrego Ximena C. , Lopez Marco A.
Published: November 2007

El objetivo de este trabajo fue estudiar los antecedentes técnicos y económicos que deben ser considerados para la selección de aspersores. Para llevar a cabo el proceso se realizó el análisis de diversos factores tales como, velocidad de aplicación, tiempo de riego, velocidad del viento, patrón de distribución y presión de trabajo. Además los costos de adquisición, energía y operación del sistema. Tambien fueram considerados de los resultados se puede concluir que el patrón de distribución es el factor más importante en los costos fijos, debido a que está asociado al número de aspersores. En el caso de los costos variables el caudal y la presión de trabajo son los factores más importantes a considerar. El viento influye en el número de aspersores y por ende el caudal total a utilizar. El tiempo de riego disponible influye en el caudal y en las horas de operación lo que tiene efecto sobre los costos totales.
Resposta fenotípica de arroz de terras altas ao estresse de fósforo no solo
Authors: Guimarães Cleber M. , Stone Luís F. , Neves Péricles C. F.
Published: November 2007

Avaliaram-se, neste trabalho, em condições de baixo e alto teor de fósforo (P) no solo, 51 linhagens de arroz provenientes do Banco Ativo de Germoplasma da Embrapa Arroz e Feijão, com o objetivo de identificar indicadores de eficiência no uso de P e linhagens com eficiência diferenciada no uso desse nutriente. O índice de eficiência do uso de fósforo mostrou ser mais adequado que a produtividade em baixo teor de fósforo no solo, na avaliação da eficiência diferenciada das linhagens no uso do P. Três linhagens, CNA 4634, CNA 4120 e CNA 3178, apresentam bom comportamento produtivo, tanto em alto como em baixo teor de P no solo e 22 mostraram bom comportamento produtivo em alto teor de P no solo; entretanto, não foram eficientes no aproveitamento de baixo P disponível no solo enquanto as demais foram desconsideradas em razão de indicarem baixo comportamento produtivo sob boa disponibilidade de P.
Relações matemáticas entre porosidade drenável e condutividade hidráulica do solo saturado
Authors: Ribeiro Kátia D. , Nascimento João M. S. do , Gomes Natalino M. , Lima Luiz A. , Menezes Stélio M.
Published: November 2007

A estimativa de algumas propriedades do solo através do uso de equações empíricas apresenta-se importante para redução do tempo e custo das análises laboratoriais, especialmente para aplicação rápida e precisa desses valores em projetos agrícolas, razão por que se objetiva, com este trabalho, testar e avaliar alguns modelos matemáticos existentes na literatura para estimativa da porosidade drenável em função da condutividade hidráulica do solo saturado. Trabalhou-se, então, com a camada superficial (0-15 cm) de solos da sub-bacia do Ribeirão Marcela (município de Nazareno, MG), utilizando-se 165 pontos amostrais. A equação proposta por Poulsen et al. (1999a) foi a que melhor se ajustou, indicando os menores valores de erro padrão de estimativa.
Mathematical methodologies for calculating the mass diffusion coefficient of bananas during drying
Authors: Amendola Mariângela , Queiroz Marlene R.
Published: November 2007

In this work two mathematical methodologies to solve the diffusion differential equation related to the banana drying process were used in order to obtain the mass diffusion coefficient value. A simplified mathematical model was considered that was based on Fick's Law, with initial and boundary conditions according to the experimental procedure carried out for banana drying. The first methodology was performed by using an approximation of the analytical solution and the second by using the numerical simulation according to the implicit scheme of the finite difference method. The calculation was carried out by looking for the minimal value of the norm calculated between the experimental data and the theoretical results obtained using different values of the diffusion coefficient. The algorithms associated with these methodologies were implemented with Matlab. The values of the diffusion coefficient according to the first and second methodologies were 1.65 x 10-6 [m² h-1] and 1.58 x 10-6 [m² h-1] respectively, with the associated minimal residual values of 0.0269 and 0.0257.
Investigação teórica do processo de redução de coliformes em leitos cultivados
Authors: Amendola Mariângela , Souza Anderson L.
Published: November 2007

Este artigo mostra a continuidade da pesquisa sugerida por Amendola et al. (2003), para o caso em que se quer buscar maior precisão na investigação teórica do processo de redução de poluentes, em função do meio suporte usado em sistemas de leitos cultivados. Esta investigação se dá via modelagem matemática e simulação numérica do processo descrito por uma equação diferencial parcial de difusão-advecção, que envolve constantes que caracterizam o meio suporte (Moreno-Grau, 1996) e deve ser associada a condições iniciais e de contorno, estabelecidas de acordo com um procedimento experimental previamente realizado. Para resolução da equação implementa-se um algoritmo baseado no esquema implícito do método de diferenças finitas que, executado no MATLAB 6.1, gera valores da concentração dos poluentes que dependem dos valores das referidas constantes. Os resultados obtidos da simulação são comparados com valores de referência para a determinação do valor do coeficiente de dispersão longitudinal que, por sua vez, gera o menor resíduo para cada tipo de meio suporte do leito cultivado. Os resultados obtidos levam à conclusão de que o leito cultivado com brita e pneu picado é mais eficiente que aquele só com brita na remoção de coliformes fecais e totais.
Caracterização mecânica de laminados cimentíceos esbeltos reforçados com fibras de sisal
Authors: Lima Paulo R. L. , Toledo Filho Romildo D. , Nagahama Koji J. , Fairbairn Eduardo M.
Published: November 2007

Com a proibição progressiva do uso de fibras de asbesto na fabricação de laminados à base de cimento, novos produtos têm sido desenvolvidos para suprir esta demanda do setor construtivo. A utilização de fibras de sisal como substituto ao asbesto, além de ser uma proposta ecológica tem grande importância socioeconômica, pois agregará valor a um produto cultivado com sucesso no semi-árido nordestino. Produziram-se, neste trabalho, placas laminadas com matriz de argamassa reforçadas com fibras longas de sisal. Ensaios de flexão em três pontos foram realizados com o objetivo de se estudar a influência da adição de fibras (3%), do número de camadas (2 e 3), da orientação das camadas (0 e 90°) e da pressão de moldagem (0 e 2 MPa) sobre o comportamento à flexão dos laminados. Os resultados indicam que a adição de fibras de sisal aumentou, para todos os casos estudados, a capacidade de absorver energia, a resistência à flexão pós-fissuração e a deflexão última do material. Os laminados reforçados com 3% de fibras de sisal, distribuídas em três camadas ortogonais à direção do carregamento e submetidos à pressão de moldagem de 2 MPa, apresentaram o melhor comportamento mecânico.
Qualidade do ovo de galinhas poedeiras criadas em galpões no semi-árido paraibano
Authors: Trindade Jair L. , Nascimento José W. B. , Furtado Dermeval A.
Published: November 2007

Avaliar índices ambientais dos galpões e os zootécnicos em aves de postura leve da linhagem Lohamann, em condições de verão e inverno de 2005 na região do semi-árida paraibana, foi o objetivo primordial deste trabalho, no qual se utilizaram 34.500 aves com diferentes idades: 32, 50, 60 e 71 semanas, acondicionadas em quatro galpões. Avaliaram-se os índices ambientais temperatura do ar, umidade relativa do ar, índice de temperatura do globo negro e umidade, carga térmica de radiação e velocidade do vento; e os produtivos (produção total de ovos, peso do ovo, peso do albúmen, peso da gema e peso das cascas), parâmetros geométricos (área e volume) e a unidade Haugh (UH) do ovo, em função da idade. Quanto ao ambiente no interior dos aviários, não houve diferença significativa na media dos índices ambientais, que ficaram dentro da zona de conforto. A idade das aves teve influência nos índices produção total, peso do ovo e peso da gema. A maior produção foi obtida com aves mais jovens, enquanto o peso do ovo e da gema foi com aves de maior idade. Os parâmetros geométricos volume e área do ovo não foram influenciados pela idade das aves. Conforme a UH os ovos de melhor qualidade se referem aos das aves com 32 e 50 semanas.
Avaliação dos níveis de ruído, luz e calor em máquinas de colheita florestal
Authors: Minette Luciano J. , Silva Emília P. da , Souza Amaury P. de , Silva Kátia R.
Published: November 2007

Esta pesquisa foi desenvolvida com dados coletados em áreas de colheita de madeira em três empresas do Estado de Minas Gerais; o objetivo geral foi avaliar os níveis de ruído, luz e calor, em máquinas de colheita florestal. Foram avaliados os postos de trabalho das seguintes máquinas: Feller-Buncher, Skidder, Garra-Traçadora, Traçador Mecânico e Carregador Florestal e os níveis de ruído medidos com o uso de um dosímetro, a iluminação através de um luxímetro digital e a exposição ao calor com o IBUTG. Na empresa 1, os dois tratores florestais avaliados enquanto parados emitem o mesmo nível de ruído, possuem luz interna e boas condições térmicas; na empresa 2, para as três máquinas avaliadas o nível de ruído está abaixo do limite recomendado pela NR 15, as cabines possuem luz interna e climatização regulável e na empresa 3 todas as máquinas apresentaram níveis de ruído superiores ao permitido pela legislação brasileira, o carregador florestal e o Mini-skidder apresentaram iluminação inadequada e os índices de temperatura efetiva estão fora da zona de conforto térmico para todas as máquinas. Conclui-se que todas as máquinas utilizadas pela empresa 3 estão em desconformidade ergonômica.
Hematological parameters in Nile Tilápia, Oreochromis niloticus exposed to sub-letal concentrations of mercury
Authors: Ishikawa Nilton Massuo , Ranzani-Paiva Maria José Tavares , Lombardi Julio Vicente , Ferreira Cláudia Maris
Published: November 2007

Mercury toxicity in tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, (Linnaeus, 1758) was investigated by the hematological parameters after long-term (14 days) exposure to various Hg concentrations (0.02, 0.002, 0.0002mg/L Hg). Test groups were set up with three replicates for each concentration, plus the control group. Blood samples were collected from six individuals for each concentration at 0, 3, 7, 10 and 14 days of exposure. The hematological parameters analyzed were: total red blood cell count (RBC), hemoglobin concentration (Hb), hematocrit (Ht), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), total white blood cell count (WBC) and differential leukocyte counts and total thrombocyte count (Tr). There were no significant differences among the mean hematological values at the different Hg concentrations indicating that Hg at the concentrations studied was not toxic to tilapia.
Modeling the difference among Cucurbita in uptake and translocation of p,p′-dichlorophenyl-1,1-dichloroethylene
Authors: Gent Martin P. N. , White Jason C. , Eitzer Brian D. , Mattina MaryJane Incorvia
Published: November 2007

Uptake of organic chemicals into plants depends on the properties of the contaminant and the physiology of the plant. A mass balance model based on fugacity was developed to quantify the uptake and transport in plants of a very hydrophobic chemical, p,p′-dichlorophenyl-1,1-dichloroethylene (DDE). The model included processes for sorption or influx of chemical with water from hydroponic solution to root and sorption or exchange of chemical between the shoot and air. Movement among compartments of the plant was governed by the transfer of water in xylem and phloem. The movement of water was entirely determined by transpiration, growth rate, and weight distribution among tissues. This model was used to predict the kinetics of uptake and movement of DDE from hydroponic solution by seedlings of two species of Cucurbitacea, cucumber and zucchini. These predictions were compared to the results of experiments in a companion paper. These experiments showed that the translocation of DDE in zucchini was much greater than in cucumber. The model correctly predicted the negligible uptake into the shoot of cucumber. The model predicted the greater uptake of DDE by zucchini only if the apparent partitioning of DDE in the xylem was 25-fold higher than that expected in pure water. Predictions using similar parameters were made for uptake and distribution of DDE for plants grown into fruit production in field soil contaminated with DDE. To match the observed concentration of DDE in fruit, the model coefficient for partitioning of DDE into water in phloem had to be increased to 200 times that in pure water.
Cholinesterase activity as a biomarker of pesticide exposure inAllolobophora chloroticaearthworms living in apple orchards under different management strategies
Authors: Denoyelle Renaud , Rault Magali , Mazzia Christophe , Mascle Odile , Capowiez Yvan
Published: November 2007

The present study used cholinesterase (ChE) activity in earthworms as a biomarker of pesticide exposure at 17 apple orchards using different pest protection strategies (organic, integrated pest management [IPM], conventional, and abandoned) located within a 300-km2 subregion near Avignon in southeastern France). The most common earthworm species in the 17 orchards was Allolobophora chlorotica. We examined inherent variability in ChE activity that might be attributable to soil characteristics and found that differences in soil structure or type did not significantly influence ChE activity. Furthermore, there was no relation between ChE specific activity and earthworm weight, and thus activity does not require correction for weight. Ten earthworms were collected in two successive months (April and May 2003) from each of the 17 orchards. Compared to the activity in worms from the control abandoned orchards, ChE activity was significantly decreased in earthworms from half the IPM and conventional orchards in April and all these orchards in May. Notably, ChE activity was also lower in earthworms from three organic orchards during May. No relation was observed between ChE decrease and the number of treatments (total or only organophosphorous and carbamate pesticides). Cholinesterase activity in earthworms from abandoned orchards varied between the two collecting periods, illustrating the difficulty in obtaining reference values for the use of ChE as a biomarker in field studies.
Biochemical ripening of dredged sediments. Part 1. Kinetics of biological organic matter mineralization and chemical sulfur oxidation
Authors: Vermeulen Johan , van Gool Martine P. M. , Dorleijn Arne S. , Joziasse Jan , Bruning Harry , Rulkens Wim H. , Grotenhuis J. T. C. (Tim)
Published: November 2007

After dredged sediments have settled in a temporary upland disposal site, ripening starts, which turns waterlogged sediment into aerated soil. Aerobic biological mineralization of organic matter (OM) and chemical oxidation of reduced sulfur compounds are the major biochemical ripening processes. Quantitative data describing these processes are scarce. Therefore, aerobic oxidation and mineralization of five previously anaerobic dredged sediments were studied during a 160-d laboratory incubation experiment at 30°C. A double exponential decay model could adequately describe sulfur oxidation and OM mineralization kinetics. During the first 7 d of incubation, 23 to 80% of the total sulfur was oxidized, after which no further sulfur oxidation was observed. Oxygen used for sulfur oxidation amounted up to 95% of the total oxygen uptake in the first 7 d and up to 45% of the oxygen uptake during the entire incubation period. Mineralization rates of the rapidly mineralizable OM fractions that degraded during the first 14 to 28 d of incubation were 102 to 103 times higher than the mineralization rates of the slowly mineralizable OM during the remaining period. First-order mineralization rates of the slowly mineralizable OM were 0.22 × 10−3 to 0.54 × 10−3 d−1 and can be compared with those of terrestrial soils. Yields of biomass on substrate ranged from 0.08 to 0.45 g Cbiomass/g COM and appeared to be higher for rapidly mineralizing OM than for slowly mineralizing OM. The results of this study can be used to optimize conditions during temporary disposal of sediments, to estimate the potential decrease in OM, and for future studies on the possible link between OM mineralization and degradation of hydrophobic organic contaminants.
Mercury and stable isotopes of carbon and nitrogen in mink
Authors: Lake James L. , Ryba Stephan A. , Serbst Jonathan , Brown IV Charles F. , Gibson Lori
Published: November 2007

Total Hg concentrations and values of stable isotopes (δ15N, δ13C) in tissues of mink (Mustela vison) captured in Rhode Island (USA) during winters of 1999 to 2004 were statistically distinct based on location. Mink captured in salt marsh environments (salt marsh group mink [SMGM]) had significantly lower mean Hg concentrations in liver and muscle tissue, and significantly higher δ15N and δ13C values in muscle, than those in corresponding samples of mink from upland freshwater locations (upland group mink [UPGM]). Stomach content samples obtained from the mink carcasses showed that fish, frogs, and crayfish were the dominant food items in UPGM, but in SMGM, fish predominated. Significant correlations were found for total Hg concentrations and stable isotope values between stomach contents and tissues. Comparisons of increases in Hg concentrations and δ15N values from stomach contents to muscle tissue showed nonsignificant differences between UPGM and SMGM for Hg concentrations (SMGM, factor of 4.2; UPGM, factor of 3.9) and δ15N values (SMGM, difference of 3.9‰; UPGM, difference of 3.1‰). These results suggest that the length of the trophic step and the extent of accumulation of Hg were approximately equal in both mink groups despite the differences in dietary composition and possible differences in accumulation of organic and inorganic Hg. The correspondence of stable isotope values and Hg concentrations between mink tissues and their stomach contents indicates that use of stomach content analysis to identify major prey items, followed by collection and analysis of appropriate field prey, may represent an approach for estimating Hg exposure to mink.
Agricultural pesticides and selected degradation products in five tidal regions and the main stem of Chesapeake Bay, USA
Authors: McConnell Laura L. , Rice Clifford P. , Hapeman Cathleen J. , Drakeford Leticia , Harman-Fetcho Jennifer A. , Bialek Krystyna , Fulton Michael H. , Leight Andrew K. , Allen Gregory
Published: November 2007

Nutrients, sediment, and toxics from water sources and the surrounding airshed are major problems contributing to poor water quality in many regions of the Chesapeake Bay, an important estuary located in the mid-Atlantic region of the United States. During the early spring of 2000, surface water samples were collected for pesticide analysis from 18 stations spanning the Chesapeake Bay. In a separate effort from July to September of 2004, 61 stations within several tidal regions were characterized with respect to 21 pesticides and 11 of their degradation products. Three regions were located on the agricultural Delmarva Peninsula: The Chester, Nanticoke, and Pocomoke Rivers. Two regions were located on the more urban western shore: The Rhode and South Rivers and the Lower Mobjack Bay, including the Back and Poquoson Rivers. In both studies, herbicides and their degradation products were the most frequently detected chemicals. In 2000, atrazine and metolachlor were found at all 18 stations. In 2004, the highest parent herbicide concentrations were found in the upstream region of Chester River. The highest concentration for any analyte in these studies was for the ethane sulfonic acid of metolachlor (MESA) at 2,900 ng/L in the Nanticoke River. The degradation product MESA also had the greatest concentration of any analyte in the Pocomoke River (2,100 ng/L) and in the Chester River (1,200 ng/L). In the agricultural tributaries, herbicide degradation product concentrations were more strongly correlated with salinity than the parent herbicides. In the two nonagricultural watersheds on the western shore, no gradient in herbicide concentrations was observed, indicating the pesticide source to these areas was water from the Bay main stem.
Speciation, behavior, and bioavailability of copper downstream of a mine-impacted lake
Authors: Martin Alan J. , Goldblatt Robert
Published: November 2007

A combination of Cu speciation analysis and toxicity testwork was conducted to assess the behavior, speciation, and bioavailability of Cu in a stream system rich in dissolved organic carbon (DOC) downstream of a mine-impacted lake (East Lake, ON, Canada). Elevated levels (∼50 μg/L) of Cu exist in the lake due to the release of dissolved Cu to the water column from underlying sediments. Most of the Cu present in East Lake and downstream is present as filterable species that represent 74 to 100% of the total. Measurements of labile Cu as measured by diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) suggest that most of the Cu is unavailable to aquatic biota. The DGT results indicate that 9 to 24% of Cu within the receiving environment is biologically available. Decreases in the labile Cu fraction with distance downstream of East Lake correlate well with increases in the concentration of DOC (r2 = 0.79–0.95), presumably due to the progressive importance of Cu-organic complexes. The relationship between filterable Cu and SO2−4 downstream of East Lake was linear (r2 = 0.99) for all sampling periods, suggesting that decreases in filterable Cu concentration downstream of East Lake could be attributed solely to dilution (i.e., conservative behavior). Variations in the filterable Cu concentration resulting in 50% mortality (LC50 = 96–203 μg/L) and the concentration resulting in an inhibition of reproduction by 25% (IC25 = 75–156 μg/L) with respect to Ceriodaphnia dubia (7-d incubation) in Cu-spiked solutions could be explained by differences in labile-Cu concentrations as determined by DGT. The considerable complexation capacity afforded by lake and stream waters can be attributed to complexation of Cu with abundant DOC (7–17 mg/L). The relevance of the toxicity data to water-effect ratio testwork, and the associated development of site-specific water quality objectives, are discussed.
Measured partition coefficients for parent and alkyl polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in 114 historically contaminated sediments: Part 2. Testing the KOCKBC two carbon–type model
Authors: Hawthorne Steven B. , Grabanski Carol B. , Miller David J.
Published: November 2007

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) desorption partition coefficients between black carbon and water (KBC) were determined using 114 historically contaminated and background sediments from eight different rural and urban waterways. Black carbon was measured after oxidation at 375°C for 24 h. Organic carbon–water partition coefficients (KOC) required for the calculation of KBC values were determined for two- to six-ring parent and C1- to C4-alkyl PAHs based on the lower range of measured KOC values from the same sediments and comparisons to literature KOC values. Approximately 2,050 log KBC values were determined on sediments having a range of total organic carbon from 0.3 to 42% by weight, black carbon from 0.1 to 40% by weight, and total PAH concentrations (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 16 parent PAHs) from 0.2 to 8,600 μg/g. Contrary to expectations, PAH partitioning was not better explained using the combined KOC and KBC models rather than the simple KOC model (i.e., KBC values for each individual PAH ranged nearly three orders of magnitude). No effect of PAH concentration on measured KBC values was apparent. Values of KBC also showed no trends with total organic carbon, black carbon, or the presence or absence of a nonaqueous phase liquid. Multiple linear regression analysis with KOC and KBC as fitted values also failed to explain the variance of the experimental data (r2 values typically less than 0.20, and standard errors greater than two orders of magnitude). These results demonstrate that models of PAH partitioning that account for different carbon types, although useful for understanding partitioning mechanisms, cannot yet be used to accurately predict PAH partitioning from historically contaminated sediments.
Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin, polychlorinated dibenzofuran, and polychlorinated biphenyl accumulation in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) near a magnesium smelter in Quebec, Canada
Authors: Tolley Cecilia , Blais Jules M.
Published: November 2007

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) as well as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were measured in white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) near a magnesium-refining facility in Quebec (Canada) known to be a source of chlorinated organic compounds to the area. We compared contaminant concentrations in deer caught one year before the start of magnesium production with those measured three years later. Total PCB concentrations were spatially uniform in deer before magnesium production, but after magnesium production began, concentrations were higher near the smelter and decreased with distance. Many of the midrange PCB homologues that bioconcentrate most in deer showed similar relationships. Concentrations of coplanar PCB congeners and cytochrome P4501A expression in deer liver were examined in a subset of the samples, and these also showed a significant inverse relationship with distance after magnesium production began. This pattern was not observed for PCDD/F concentrations in deer. The risk involved for the human population in consuming local deer meat was assessed by applying contaminant concentrations measured in the present study to Health Canada consumption guidelines. Contaminants in deer were not shown to pose a serious risk to the population, but the number of portions of deer from beyond 20 km that could be safely consumed was less restrictive than the number for deer from within a 5-km radius of the magnesium smelter.
Microcystin kinetics (bioaccumulation and elimination) and biochemical responses in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) exposed to toxic cyanobacterial blooms
Authors: Adamovský Ondřej , Kopp Radovan , Hilscherová Klára , Babica Pavel , Palíková Miroslava , Pašková Veronika , Navrátil Stanislav , Maršálek Blahoslav , Bláha Luděk
Published: November 2007

Two species of common edible fish, common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix), were exposed to a Microcystis spp.–dominated natural cyanobacterial water bloom for two months (concentrations of cyanobacterial toxin microcystin, 182–539 μg/g biomass dry wt). Toxins accumulated up to 1.4 to 29 ng/g fresh weight and 3.3 to 19 ng/g in the muscle of silver carp and common carp, respectively, as determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent immunoassay. Concentrations an order of magnitude higher were detected in hepatopancreas (up to 226 ng/g in silver carp), with a peak after the initial four weeks. Calculated bioconcentration factors ranged from 0.6 to 1.7 for muscle and from 7.3 to 13.3 for hepatopancreas. Microcystins were completely eliminated within one to two weeks from both muscle and hepatopancreas after the transfer of fish with accumulated toxins to clean water. Mean estimated elimination half-lives ranged from 0.7 d in silver carp muscle to 8.4 d in common carp liver. The present study also showed significant modulations of several biochemical markers in hepatopancreas of fish exposed to cyanobacteria. Levels of glutathione and catalytic activities of glutathione S-transferase and glutathione reductase were induced in both species, indicating oxidative stress and enhanced detoxification processes. Calculation of hazard indexes using conservative U.S. Environmental Protection Agency methodology indicated rather low risks of microcystins accumulated in edible fish, but several uncertainties should be explored.
Practice alert: CPR revises its arbitration rules, both domestic and international
Authors: Bleemer Russ
Published: November 2007

Philadelphia's Stradley Ronon wins the first CPR Law Firm Award for Excellence in ADR. Also: CPR's arbitration rules are revised; Web site podcasts are launched; the January 2007 CPR Annual Meeting agenda is announced, and CPR releases its full Corporate Leadership Award Dinner sponsor list
CPR's new rule 14 provides parties with interim measures, to be heard by a special arbitrator
Authors: Lee Esther Seonmin
Published: November 2007

Esther Seonmin Lee, of Malibu, Calif., analyzes a rule on interim measures in arbitration that is a part of each of the new sets of CPR Institute domestic and international arbitration rules
Multiplexed Detection Methods for Profiling MicroRNA Expression in Biological Samples
Authors: Wark Alastair W. , Lee Hye Jin , Corn Robert M.
Published: November 2007

The recent discovery of short, non‐protein coding RNA molecules, such as microRNA molecules (miRNAs), that can control gene expression has unveiled a whole new layer of complexity in the regulation of cell function. Since 2001, there has been a surge of interest in understanding the regulatory role of the hundreds to thousands of miRNAs expressed in both plants and animals. Significant progress in this area requires the development of quantitative bioanalytical methods for the rapid, multiplexed detection of all miRNAs that are present in a particular cell or tissue sample. In this Minireview, we discuss some of the latest methods for high‐throughput miRNA profiling and the unique technological challenges that must be surmounted in this endeavor.
Developments in EU biofuels policy related to sustainability issues: overview and outlook
Authors: Londo Marc , Deurwaarder Ewout
Published: November 2007

In the current debate on present and future biofuels policy, sustainability issues play an important role. In this perspective, we discuss a number of factors in the framing of the biofuels sustainability debate, and describe their role over the last 25 years or so in which biofuels have been on the political agenda. Our first conclusion is that biofuels policy is related to several underlying objectives, such as climate change, security of supply and other drivers. Therefore, the policy will structurally need to be monitored in its impacts, in order to keep these impacts in concordance with these objectives. In the long term, biofuels policy might be substituted by instruments that more directly relate to the objectives. Second, current sustainability issues concerning biofuels relate to either the production chain or to the regional system in which biofuels compete for land. Finding suitable indicators and setting up monitoring schemes are key challenges. Furthermore, a safeguarding scheme needs to meet two conflicting requirements: on the one hand it is important to implement it over many regions and many sectors (including non‐energy), but on the other hand the problem requires implementation in the short term. Starting with monitoring only may cause an issue of legitimacy. Finally, we propose some elements for a robust development strategy. This includes pushing forward with a sustainability safeguarding scheme, within the given constraints. During the start‐up period of such schemes, non‐certified biofuels and feedstock might be discouraged, simultaneously stimulating production initiatives operating under certification. © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Did the NPRA mislead the US Senate on ethanol potential?
Authors: Dale Bruce E.
Published: November 2007

Recent testimony given to the US Senate by the US National Petrochemical and Refiners Association (NPRA) regarding the potential of ethanol appears misleading. The statement comes just six months after the House of Representatives passed legislation that would divert billions of dollars in tax breaks and subsidies from oil companies to renewable energy projects.

© 2008 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Preliminary study into the economic burden of Down syndrome in China
Authors: Chen Yingyao , Qian Xu , Zhang Jie , Li Jun , Chu Annie , Schweitzer Stuart O.
Published: November 2007

BACKGROUND:

To measure the economic burden of Down syndrome (DS) in China is to facilitate strategic planning development for managing and preventing DS.

METHODS:

The economic burden of DS was calculated from direct healthcare costs, direct non‐health‐care costs, and indirect costs. The incidence approach was employed to measure the lifetime economic burden of a new DS birth in China in 2003. Most parameters came from a household health services survey, which was given to caregivers of people with DS. This survey was conducted in Hebei, Shaanxi, and Shanghai in 2004.

RESULTS:

Caregivers of 222 people with DS were interviewed in six cities and neighboring rural areas. Average expenses and utilization rate of different services by age groups from this sample were obtained to estimate the economic burden of DS. The average lifetime economic burden of a new DS case from the family perspective and the societal perspective amounted to US$47,000 and US$55,000, respectively. Indirect (productivity) costs were responsible for most of the total economic loss. Sensitivity analysis showed that the incidence rate, survival rate, value of productivity such as GDP per capita or salary, productivity of people with DS, and utilization rate of related services were influencing factors to the economic burden of DS.

CONCLUSIONS:

The economic burden of DS is substantial for the family of a person with DS, as well as to society. Appropriate management and prevention of DS is needed to reduce the heavy burden for people with DS and their families. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.