bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Unstable Flow and Reduced Hydraulic Conductivity due to Water Repellence and Restricted Drainage
Authors: Hardie Marcus , Deurer Markus , Doyle Richard B. , Lisson Shaun , Cotching William E. , Mattern Kathrin
Published: October 2012

The effect of water repellence and antecedent soil moisture on wetting front stability and infiltration rate are reported for a seasonally water repellent topsoil. The effect of water repellence on infiltration was determined by comparing the in situ infiltration of water to that of a 7M ethanol solution. Wetting front stability was measured during infiltration of water into repacked, wettable and water repellent soils, within a Hele‐Shaw chamber. Water repellence restricted in situ movement of water through large macropores (>500 μm), which decreased intrinsic permeability by 1 to 2 orders of magnitude. In repacked soils, water repellence caused the development of unstable wetting fronts and reduced infiltration from 240 mm h−1 to 101.7 mm h−1. Infiltration into wettable soils at moisture contents near field capacity was expected to result in rapid infiltration and stable wetting fronts. However in repacked soils, wetting front instability developed, and infiltration rates were 190% lower when air and/or water movement through the base of the chamber was restricted. Infiltration into in situ soil was also slower at high antecedent soil moisture. The hydraulic conductivity of the 7M ethanol solution decreased significantly from 112.3 mm h−1 in dry water repellent conditions, to 35.6 mm h−1 in wettable soils at high antecedent moisture contents. Consequently the previously reported development of wetting front instability and reduced infiltration into in situ wettable soils at high moisture contents were confirmed and attributed to difficulty displacing existing soil water during infiltration of new water.
Effects of Porous Medium Heterogeneity on Vadose Zone Desiccation: Intermediate‐Scale Laboratory Experiments and Simulations
Authors: Oostrom M. , Freedman V.L. , Wietsma T.W. , Dane J.H. , Truex M.J.
Published: October 2012

Soil desiccation (drying), involving water evaporation induced by dry gas injection, is a potentially robust vadose zone remediation process to limit contaminant transport through the vadose zone. A series of four intermediate‐scale flow cell experiments was conducted in homogeneous and simple layered heterogeneous porous medium systems to investigate the effects of heterogeneity on desiccation of unsaturated porous media. The permeability ratios of porous medium layers ranged from about 5 to almost 2 orders of magnitude. The insulated flow cell was equipped with 20 humidity and temperature sensors while a dual‐energy γ system was used to determine water saturations at various times. The multiphase code STOMP was used to simulate the desiccation process. For the layered systems, results show that injected dry gas flowed predominantly in the higher permeability layer and delayed water removal from the lower permeability material. For the configurations tested, water vapor diffusion from the lower to the higher permeability zone was considerable over the duration of the experiments, resulting in much larger relative humidity values of the outgoing air than based on permeability ratios alone. Acceptable numerical matches with the experimental data were obtained when an extension of the saturation‐capillary pressure relation below the residual water saturation was used. The agreements between numerical and experimental results suggest that the correct physics is implemented in the simulator.
Mechanical pre-treatment (MPT) – revitalised by MBR process
Authors: Schier W. , Drensla K. , Janot A. , Exler H. , Engelhardt N. , Frechen F.-B.
Published: October 2012

Since the mid-nineties membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology has been introduced to municipal wastewater treatment in Europe. The first MBR plants went into operation performing a conventional mechanical pre-treatment (MPT) without any advanced treatment units. After a short operation period, clogging caused by fibrous substances and hence module sludging was observed. Thus, MPT was upgraded introducing sieves. Several investigations had been carried out to determine the removal efficiency of different sieve units and entire MPT systems. Meanwhile experiences from long-term operation at different MBR sites indicate dependencies between different MPT units, especially between the aerated grit chamber/grease trap and the subsequent sieve unit. Usually the sieve is the final MPT unit and its performance depends on the performance of the upstream MPT units. This report describes and discusses results from a research project at MBR Kaarst–Nordkanal in Germany conducted in 2008 to 2010 by the Water Board of River Erft and the Department of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering. Main focus is addressed for the parameters SS (settable solids) and grease. One major experience is the confirmation of relevant interactions between the grit chamber and the downstream sieve unit. Stable operation of the grit chamber and grease trap is essential to achieve a constantly high removal performance of the sieve unit and therefore the entire MPT stage. In turn, negative impacts on the grit chamber performance from the return flow concept have to be avoided. Finally, it is shown that the appropriate two-dimensional sieve gap size should not go beyond 1 mm when operating hollow fibre membranes.
Occurrence of pharmaceuticals and endocrine disruptors in raw sewage and their behavior in UASB reactors operated at different hydraulic retention times
Authors: Queiroz F. B. , Brandt E. M. F. , Aquino S. F. , Chernicharo C. A. L. , Afonso R. J. C. F.
Published: October 2012

This work investigated the occurrence of pharmaceuticals and endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) in raw sewage (from Belo Horizonte city, Minas Gerais state, Brazil) and assessed their behavior in demo-scale upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactors (UASB reactors) operated at different hydraulic retention times (HRT). The dissolved concentration of the studied micropollutants in the raw and treated sewage was obtained using solid phase extraction (SPE) followed by analysis in a liquid chromatography system coupled to a hybrid high resolution mass spectrometer consisting of an ion-trap and time of flight (LC-MS-IT-TOF). The natural (estradiol) and synthetic (ethinylestradiol) estrogens were hardly detected; when present, however, their concentrations were lower than the method quantification limits. The concentrations of bisphenol A and miconazole in raw sewage were similar to that reported in the literature (around 200 ng L−1 and hardly detected, respectively). The antibiotics sulfamethoxazole (median 13.0 ng L−1) and trimethoprim (median 61.5 ng L−1), and the other pharmaceutical compounds (diclofenac and bezafibrate, with median 99.9 and 94.4 ng L−1, respectively) were found in lower concentrations when compared with reports in the literature, which might indicate a lower consumption of such drugs in Brazil. The UASB reactors were inefficient in the removal of bisphenol A, and led to an increased concentration of nonylphenol in the effluent. The anaerobic reactors were also inefficient in the removal of diclofenac, and led to a partial removal of bezafibrate; whereas, for sulfamethoxazole there seemed to be a direct relationship between the HRT and removal efficiencies. For trimethoprim the sludge retention time (SRT) seemed to play an important role, although it was only partially removed in the UASB reactors.
Granular biomass selection in a double-stage biogas collection UASB reactor: effects on SMA, abundance and diversity of the methanogenic population
Authors: Pereira J. O. , Mac Conell E. F. A. , Silva S. Q. , Chernicharo C. A. L.
Published: October 2012

The present work aimed at investigating biomass selection in a pilot-scale double-stage biogas collection (DSBC) upflow anaerobic sludge bed (USAB) reactor treating domestic wastewater. Specific methanogenic activity (SMA) measurements and FISH countings were applied to sludge samples collected during 102 days of operation of the DSBC–UASB and of a control reactor. Results showed that both reactors presented similar SMA values in early stages of operation however the UASB–DSBC reactor showed much higher SMA after day 45, when the biomass was in granular stage. In terms of archaeal abundance, no statistical difference was observed between the reactors. Polymerase chain reaction–denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (PCR–DGGE) revealed a similar composition of the archaeal communities in the two reactors and during the operational period, mainly constituted by Methanosaeta concilii. The results suggest that cell activity rather than archaeal abundance or diversity drive the methane production in the UASB reactors.
The operation of two EGSB reactors under the application of different loads of oxytetracycline and florfenicol
Authors: Londoño Yudy Andrea , Rodríguez Diana Catalina , Peñuela Gustavo
Published: October 2012

This study evaluated the effect of the antibiotics oxytetracycline (OTC) and florfenicol (FLO) on the operation of two EGSB (expanded granular sludge bed) reactors. The experiment was conducted for 210 d in reactor R1 and 245 d in reactor R2. The reactors were inoculated with granular sludge from a upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor on a local dairy farm. The sludge had an average pellet size of 2.35 mm, good sedimentability and a high percentage of organic material. The antibiotic tolerance and the inhibitory action on the bacterial population were different for each antibiotic studied. The results showed a more severe inhibitory effect on microorganisms that were in contact with increases in loads of FLO than those that were in contact with increasing loads of OTC, a condition reflected in the chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency.
The effect of sludge recirculation rate on a UASB-digester treating domestic sewage at 15 °C
Authors: Zhang Lei , Hendrickx Tim L. G. , Kampman Christel , Zeeman Grietje , Temmink Hardy , Li Weiguang , Buisman Cees J. N.
Published: October 2012

The anaerobic treatment of low strength domestic sewage at low temperature is an attractive and important topic at present. The upflow anaerobic sludge bed (UASB)-digester system is one of the anaerobic systems to challenge low temperature and concentrations. The effect of sludge recirculation rate on a UASB-digester system treating domestic sewage at 15 °C was studied in this research. A sludge recirculation rate of 0.9, 2.6 and 12.5% of the influent flow rate was investigated. The results showed that the total chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency rose with increasing sludge recirculation rate. A sludge recirculation rate of 0.9% of the influent flow rate led to organic solids accumulation in the UASB reactor. After the sludge recirculation rate increased from 0.9 to 2.6%, the stability of the UASB sludge was substantially improved from 0.37 to 0.15 g CH4-COD/g COD, and the bio­gas production in the digester went up from 2.9 to 7.4 L/d. The stability of the UASB sludge and bio­gas production in the digester were not significantly further improved by increasing sludge recirculation rate to 12.5% of the influent flow rate, but the biogas production in the UASB increased from 0.37 to 1.2 L/d. It is recommended to apply a maximum sludge recirculation rate of 2–2.5% of the influent flow rate in a UASB-digester system, as this still allows energy self-sufficiency of the system.
Co-governing decentralised water systems: an analytical framework
Authors: Yu C. , Brown R. , Morison P.
Published: October 2012

Current discourses in urban water management emphasise a diversity of water sources and scales of infrastructure for resilience and adaptability. During the last 2 decades, in particular, various small-scale systems emerged and developed so that the debate has largely moved from centralised versus decentralised water systems toward governing integrated and networked systems of provision and consumption where small-scale technologies are embedded in large-scale centralised infrastructures. However, while centralised systems have established boundaries of ownership and management, decentralised water systems (such as stormwater harvesting technologies for the street, allotment/house scales) do not, therefore the viability for adoption and/or continued use of decentralised water systems is challenged. This paper brings together insights from the literature on public sector governance, co-production and social practices model to develop an analytical framework for co-governing such systems. The framework provides urban water practitioners with guidance when designing co-governance arrangements for decentralised water systems so that these systems continue to exist, and become widely adopted, within the established urban water regime.
Faecal contamination of public water sources in informal settlements of Kisumu City, western Kenya
Authors: Opisa Selpha , Odiere Maurice R. , Jura Walter G. Z. O. , Karanja Diana M. S. , Mwinzi Pauline N. M.
Published: October 2012

High levels of environmental contamination, often associated with improper waste and excreta management, are widespread among informal settlements within urban areas in developing countries. We determined the level of faecal contamination in domestic water sources and evaluated the potential contribution of these water sources to intestinal helminthiases in seven informal settlements of Kisumu City, western Kenya. Membrane filtration technique was used for enumeration of total and faecal (Escherichia coli) coliform bacteria in water samples collected from dams, rivers, springs and wells. Out of the 80 water sources sampled, 76 (95%) were highly contaminated with E coli. All water samples from unprotected wells (26) and 92.6% of samples from protected wells (25) were positive for E. coli. The highest and lowest E. coli densities were observed in samples from dams (3,800 ± 1,807 coliforms per 100 ml) and boreholes (419 ± 223 coliforms per 100 ml), respectively (p = 0.0321). Distance from pit latrines was negatively associated with E. coli coliform density for wells (r = −0.34, n = 53, p = 0.0142). Untreated well-water may not be suitable for human consumption, and its continued use constitutes a major health risk for the inhabitants of these informal settlements.
Degradation of naproxen by combination of Fenton reagent and ultrasound irradiation: optimization using response surface methodology
Authors: Lan Rui-Jia , Li Ji-Tai , Sun Han-Wen , Su Wen-Bin
Published: October 2012

A central composite factorial design methodology was employed to optimize the degradation of naproxen (NPX) by the combination of Fenton reagent and ultrasound (US) irradiation. In this study, the variables considered for the process optimization were the hydrogen peroxide, ferrous ion and NPX initial concentrations, while ultrasonic power amplitude was adjusted at 90% and initial pH was 3. An appropriate quadratic model was developed in order to plot the response surface and contour curves. Optimum dosage of Fenton reagent for NPX removal was found to be hydrogen peroxide concentration = 9.98 mmol L−1, ferrous ion concentration = 4.83 mg L−1 while NPX concentration was equal to 20 mg L−1. A degradation efficiency of 100% was achieved within 10 min under US.
Characteristics and separation efficiencies of PPSU/PEI/PEG blend membranes with different compositions for water treatment
Authors: Hwang Li-Luen , Wey Ming-Yen , Chen Jyh-Cherng
Published: October 2012

To overcome the problems and constraints in the application of single organic membranes in wastewater treatment or water reuse processes, different blend membranes were prepared and modified to improve the separation efficiency of humic acids (HAs) and mitigate the fouling problems occurring during water purification. This study extends the results of our previous research and further investigates the relationships between the composition of polyphenylsulfone/polyetherimide/polyethylene glycol (PPSU/PEI/PEG) blend membranes and membrane characteristics and performance. The experimental results showed that the PEI and PEG component ratios of PPSU could significantly affect the blend membrane structure, morphology, and properties. With the increase in PEG concentration, the pore volume, pore size distribution, and permeability of the blend membranes was enhanced. The hydrophilic or hydrophobic properties of the blend membranes can be modified by changing the PPSU/PEI ratios. The optimum composition of the PPSU/PEI/PEG blend membrane was 35/5/6 wt%, and the corresponding permeability and HAs separation efficiency was 127 Lm−2h−1 and 83%, respectively.
Estimates of methane loss and energy recovery potential in anaerobic reactors treating domestic wastewater
Authors: Lobato L. C. S. , Chernicharo C. A. L. , Souza C. L.
Published: October 2012

This work aimed at developing a mathematical model that could estimate more precisely the fraction of chemical oxygen demand (COD) recovered as methane in the biogas and which, effectively, represented the potential for energy recovery in upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors treating domestic wastewater. The model sought to include all routes of conversion and losses in the reactor, including the portion of COD used for the reduction of sulfates and the loss of methane in the residual gas and dissolved in the effluent. Results from the production of biogas in small- and large-scale UASB reactors were used to validate the model. The results showed that the model allowed a more realistic estimate of biogas production and of its energy potential.
Worldwide surveys of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in water environment in recent years
Authors: Kunacheva Chinagarn , Fujii Shigeo , Tanaka Shuhei , Seneviratne S. T. M. L. D. , Lien Nguyen Pham Hong , Nozoe Munehiro , Kimura Koji , Shivakoti Binaya Raj , Harada Hidenori
Published: October 2012

Recently, perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) have been noted as causes of some of the important environmental problems in recent years due to their occurrences and properties. The most commonly used PFCs are perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which have been used in many kinds of products. They have been found in surface water and tap water in both developed and developing countries around the world including in North America, Europe and Asia. In most countries, rivers are the source of tap water, which is one of the important pathways in which PFCs reach humans. It is essential to evaluate PFOS and PFOA contamination in the river basin. The purpose of this field study was to determine the presence of PFOS and PFOA in rivers around the world. The surveys were conducted in 15 countries during 2004 to 2010. In total, 539 samples were collected from the rivers in 41 cities. A solid phase extraction (SPE) coupled with HPLC-ESI-MS/MS were used for the analysis of these chemicals. PFOS and PFOA were detected in all 41 cities not only in industrialized areas but also in non-industrialized areas, representing that these compounds undergo long-range transportation in the environment. The average concentration of PFOS in each city ranged from not detected to 70.1 ng/L. The average concentration of PFOA in each city was in the range 0.2–1,630.2 ng/L. The industrialized areas show higher contamination in both PFOS and PFOA concentrations than non-industrialized areas. Industrial activities are some of the major sources of PFCs contamination in rivers.
Selection of reference genes for normalization of real-time PCR data in visceral adipose tissue of female rats on a fructose-enriched diet
Authors: Elakovic Ivana , Nestorov Jelena , Kovacevic Sanja , Matic Gordana
Published: October 2012

Considering the association of increased fructose intake with the rise in
metabolic syndrome and gender differences in its incidence, this study was
aimed at evaluating and identifying the optimal reference genes for the
relative quantification of gene expression by real-time PCR in the adipose
tissue of female rats exposed to a fructose-enriched diet as an animal model
of metabolic syndrome. The transcription of four commonly used reference
genes, BA, HPRT1, TBP and B2M, was quantified by TaqMan real-time PCR. The
expression stability of these genes was evaluated by direct comparison of Ct
values and by using the geNorm and NormFinder algorithms. NormFinder revealed
HPRT1 as the most stable gene, and both programs identified HPRT1 and TBP as
the most stable combination of genes in this experimental paradigm. In
addition, HPRT1 was shown to be reliable enough as the sole reference gene.
The prevalence of the most important viral infections in renal transplant recipients in Serbia
Authors: Cupic Maja , Lazarevic Ivana , Pravica Vera , Banko Ana , Karalic Danijela , Naumovic R. , Kravljaca Milica , Jovanovic Tanja
Published: October 2012

Viruses are the main cause of opportunistic infections after kidney
transplantation. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of
cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), B. K. virus (BKV) and John
Cunningham virus (JCV) infections in renal transplant recipients (RTR). This
retrospective study of 112 RTR investigated the presence of CMV, EBV and
polyomaviruses DNA in plasma and/or urine by PCR. The visualization of PCR
products was performed by electrophoresis on 2% agarose gel stained with
ethidium bromide and photographed under a UV light. The chi-square test was
used for statistical analysis. CMV DNA was detected in 14/112 (12.5%), EBV
DNA in 4/49 (8.16%), BKV DNA in 10/31 (32.26%) and JCV DNA in 3/31 (9.68%)
RTR. These results show that CMV infection is more often present in RTR
compared to other investigated viral infections. In the light of these
results, molecular testing could be useful in identifying recipients at high
risk of symptomatic post-transplant viral infection.
Hepatitis B screening in pregnant women in the autonomous province of Vojvodina, Serbia
Authors: Rajcevic Smiljana , Cosic G. , Djuric P. , Djekic J. , Ristic M. , Babovic-Kacavenda D.
Published: October 2012

The principal screening test for maternal infection is the serologic
identification test for the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Data of
HBsAg testing surveillance from all public and private laboratories in the
Autonomous Province of Vojvodina, Serbia, were collected. There were
differences in the inclusion of pregnant women for HBsAg testing between the
different counties in the province, ranging from 9% to 68% in Zapadnobacki
county and Severnobacki county, respectively. Preventing perinatal
transmission should be an important element in any national strategy for the
control hepatitis B infection.
Bloodstream infections in children caused by extended spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Medic Deana , Gusman Vera , Mihajlovic-Ukropina Mira , Jelesic Zora , Milosavljevic Biljana
Published: October 2012

The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of extended spectrum
beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Klebsiella pneumoniae strains isolated from
blood in children and their susceptibility to antimicrobial drugs commonly
used in the therapy. The study was conducted at the Institute of Public
Health of Vojvodina Province, Serbia, in a two-year period, from January 2009
to December 2010. A total of 424 non-duplicate strains were isolated from the
blood of pediatric patients hospitalized in various wards in the Institute of
Health Care of Children and Youth of Vojvodina Province. Fifty isolates of
Klebsiella pneumoniae were reported. The frequency of isolation of Klebsiella
pneumoniae was 27/222 (12.2%) and 23/202 (11.3%) isolates in 2009 and 2010,
respectively. There was a high prevalence of ESBL-producing Klebsiella
pneumoniae, 76% (38/50), and 17 isolates (44.7%) were multidrug resistant
(MDR). Further drug resistance surveillance in hospitals and the molecular
characterization of ESBL-positive isolates in our country is necessary.
Application of standard and molecular methods for the diagnosis of newcastle disease
Authors: Vidanovic D. , Sekler M. , Polacek V. , Vaskovic N. , Asanin Ruzica , Milic N. , Nisavic J.
Published: October 2012

Four pooled samples of whole poultry carcasses with their internal organs
were used to determine the presence of Newcastle disease (ND) virus. Samples
were collected from one epizootiological area in the Republic of Serbia
during January 2007. Newcastle disease virus strains were isolated from four
samples. The identification of isolated strains was done by using the
hemagglutination and hemagglutination-inhibition tests. The nucleic acid of
the ND virus was identified in all the four samples It was confirmed that all
the isolated strains were velogenic strains. Analysis of the nucleotide
sequences of the gene encoding the F cleavage site of the fusion F protein
showed the presence of motifs 112RRQKRFIG119, characteristic for the
velogenic strains of the ND virus. Phylogenetic analysis of the F gene
sequences revealed that all isolated strains of the virus belong to class II
and genotype VIId.
Identification of Agrobacterium vitis as a causal agent of grapevine crown gall in Serbia
Authors: Kuzmanovic N. , Gasic Katarina , Ivanovic M. , Prokic Andjelka , Obradovic A.
Published: October 2012

In 2010, a serious outbreak of crown gall disease was observed on grapevines
(Vitis vinifera L. cv. Cabernet Sauvignon) in several commercial vineyards
located in the Vojvodina province, Serbia. Bacteria were isolated from the
young tumor tissue on nonselective YMA medium and five representative strains
were selected for further identification. Tumorigenic (Ti) plasmid was
detected in all strains by PCR using primers designed to amplify the virC
pathogenicity gene, producing a 414-bp PCR product. The strains were
identified as Agrobacterium vitis using differential physiological and
biochemical tests, and a multiplex PCR assay targeting 23S rRNA gene
sequences. In the pathogenicity assay, all strains induced characteristic
symptoms on inoculated tomato and grapevine plants. They were less virulent
on tomato plants in comparison to the reference strains of A. tumefaciens and
A. vitis.
Site-directed mutation of a laccase from Thermus thermophilus: Effect on the activity profile
Authors: Liu Xin , Tian Meng , Liu Kewu
Published: October 2012

A site-directed mutant R453T of a laccase from Thermus thermophilus HB27
(Tth-laccase) was constructed in order to investigate the effect on laccase
catalytic properties. The mutated gene was cloned and overexpressed in
Escherichia coli. Nickel-affinity purification was achieved and followed by
copper ion incorporation. The mature mutated enzyme was quantitatively equal
to the wild type. A photometric assay based on the oxidation of the substrate
2,2-azino-bis-(3- ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) was employed in
comparison with the wild-type Tth-laccase on catalytic properties. The R453T
mutant exhibited improvement in substrate affinity and specific activity at
room temperature, whereas those parameters were not significantly influenced
when the temperature increased up to 65?C or higher. The mutant had better
catalytic activity than that of the wild type at acidic pH. Investigated by
circular dichroism spectroscopy, the mutant Tth-laccase displayed similar
profiles at low and high temperatures.
Aquatic weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionoidea) assembly response to the different ecological conditions in artificial lakes in central Serbia
Authors: Pesic Snezana
Published: October 2012

Artificial stagnant aquatic ecosystems such as reservoirs, are suitable for
monitoring the succession of biocenoses because they are usually formed by
rearrangement of the former current river ecosystems. The weevil assembly, as
part of such a dynamic biocenose, develops following host macrophytes. In the
frame of weevil fauna studies realized during 2001 and 2002 in wet habitats
beside four artificial lakes in Central Serbia (Gruza, Grosnica, Sumarice and
Bubanj), the aquatic adults from 13 species, divided into two families,
Eryrhinidae (Tanysphyrus lemnae and Notaris scirpi) and Curculionidae (Bagous
bagdatensis, B. collignensis, B. lutulentus, Pelenomus canaliculatus, P.
comari, P. waltoni, Phytobius leucogaster, Rhinoncus castor, R. inconspectus,
R. pericarpius and R. perpendicularis), were collected. The quantitative and
qualitative picture of the studied aquatic weevil assemblies, as well as
indices of similarity among them, are given and related to the dimensions and
ecological characteristics of studied aquatic systems (particularly the level
of eutrophication).
Modeling surface fluxes over a sparse vegetation
Authors: Mihailovic D.T. , Lalic Branislava , Lesny Jacek , Olejnik J.
Published: October 2012

In this paper some of aspects in modeling over sparse vegetation using the
Land-Air Parameterization Scheme (LAPS), including an approach in calculating
the turbulent transfer coefficient using ?K-theory? inside a sparse
vegetation canopy, were considered. For this purpose, the scheme was run for
different sparse agricultural cultivars, i.e., apple orchard, winter wheat
and soybean crops, at different sites. The modeled values for surface fluxes,
canopy temperature and soil moisture content, were compared with
observations.
Increased tumor necrosis factor alpha and interleukin-6 serum levels and their correlation with laboratory parameters in patients with imported malaria
Authors: Poluga Jasmina , Dopsaj Violeta , Veljkovic Milena , Maksic N. , Stojakovic Sonja , Dunjic Radica , Dakic Zorica , Pavlovic Milorad
Published: October 2012

In malaria, blood concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor
necrosis factor alpha (TNF-?) and interleukin (IL)-6, are increased. In a
study which included 34 patients, TNF-? and IL-6 were examined in two phases,
immediately after the admission of patients, and at the end of antimalarial
therapy, when the parasitemia was negative. The results show a significant
increase of TNF-? and IL-6 in the first phase, before the effects of
antimalarial therapy. A very strong correlation between TNF-? and IL-6 is
also confirmed, which suggests their coordinated production. Increased TNF-?
values were correlated with an older age, the level of parasitemia, the
number of platelets and leukocytes, elevated values of procalcitonin, D-dimer
and lactate dehydrogenas?, and lower values of serum iron and antithrombin.
Increased values of IL-6 were correlated with the level of parasitemia, the
number of platelets and leukocytes, and elevated values of D-dimer and
lactates.
Molecular detection of Babesia spp. in ticks in northern Serbia
Authors: Mihaljica D. , Radulovic Z. , Tomanovic Snezana , Cakic Sanja , Penezic Aleksandra , Milutinovic Marija
Published: October 2012

In order to evaluate the prevalence rate of Babesia spp. in ticks collected
from vegetation at seven localities in northern Serbia, tick samples were
subjected to molecular analysis. A total of 132 unfed adult ticks of five
different species (Dermacentor marginatus, Dermacentor reticulatus, Ixodes
ricinus, Haemaphysalis concinna and Haemaphysalis punctata), were examined by
PCR for the presence of Babesia spp. Out of the analyzed ticks, 10.61%
(14/132) were positive for babesial DNA. The presence of babesiae was found
at the localities Pancevacki Rit, Titov Gaj, Makis, PKB and Kljajicevo.
Prevalence in D. reticulatus ticks was 21.57% (11/51) and in H. concinna
ticks, 8.57% (3/35). Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis showed a clustering
of the obtained sequences with those of B. canis from the GenBank database.
These results add to the knowledge of the distribution of babesial pathogens
and their vectors in Serbia.
Simultaneous estimation of etodolac and thiocolchicoside in bulk and in tablet formulation by UV-spectrophotometry
Authors: Pandey Ramchandra , Patil Pravin , Bari Sanjay , Dhumal Dinesh
Published: October 2012

Two simple, rapid and reproducible simultaneous equation and Q-Analysis
UV-Spectrophotometric methods have been developed for simultaneous
estimation of Etodolac (ETO) and Thiocolchicoside (THC) in combined tablet
dosage form. The methods involved solving simultaneous equations and Q-value
Analysis based on measurement of absorbance at wavelengths, 223 (?max of
ETO), 259.4 nm (?max of THC) and 236 nm (Iso-absorptive point). Linearity
was found in the concentration range of 1-6 ?g/mL and 4 - 24 ?g/mL for ETO &
THC respectively with coefficient correlation 0.9998 & 0.9992. The amount of
drugs estimated by proposed methods are in excellent agreement with label
claimed. Further-more, the methods were applied for the determination of ETO
and THC in spiked human urine. The degradation behavior of ETO and THC was
investigated under acid hydrolysis, alkali hydrolysis, photo and oxidative
degradation. The samples subsequently generated were used for degradation
studies using the developed method. Thiocolchicoside was found to degrade
extensively under alkali hydrolysis and unaffected by other stress
conditions while ETO was found to be stable in all stress conditions. The
methods were validated according to ICH guidelines. The method, suitable for
routine quality control, has been successfully applied to the determination
of both drugs in commercial brands of tablets.
Evaluation of antibacterial and antioxidant potential of Euphorbia cotinifolia linn. leaf extracts
Authors: Jayalakshmi B. , Raveesha K.A. , Amruthesh K.N.
Published: October 2012

Antibacterial activity of aqueous and solvent extracts of E. cotinifolia
leaves were tested against some human pathogenic bacteria viz. Escherichia
coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Salmonella
typhi, Enterobacter aerogenes and Staphylococcus aureus by agar cup diffusion
and broth microdilution methods. Antioxidant properties were evaluated for
different solvent extracts by diphenyl picryl hydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide
(NO) and hydrogen peroxide methods and IC50 values were calculated and
compared with the standard ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxyanisole. Among
the aqueous and organic solvent extracts, methanol and ethyl acetate, showed
significant activity against B. subtilis and E. aerogenes which recorded a
maximum inhibition zone of 17.25 mm. Minimum inhibitory concentration of
methanol and ethyl acetate extracts for different bacteria ranged from 0.3-
1.25 mg/mL. In DPPH method, IC50 values of chloroform, petroleum ether, ethyl
acetate and methanol were found to be 15, 17, 18 and 19 mg/mL, respectively,
lesser than the standard, ascorbic acid (25 mg/mL). Phytochemical analysis
of aqueous, ethyl acetate and methanol extract showed the presence of
flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins and steroids. Further work is in progress to
isolate the active compound(s).
Investigation of forelimb hoof wall strains and hoof shape in unshod horses exercised on a treadmill at various speeds and gaits
Authors: Bellenzani Maria C. R. , Merritt Jonathan S. , Clarke Sandy , Davies Helen M. S.
Published: October 2012

Objective—To investigate forelimb hoof wall strains and shape changes in unshod horses undergoing regular moderate exercise on a treadmill at selected speeds and gaits.

Animals—6 horses of various body types.

Procedures—Each horse was exercised on a treadmill (walking, trotting, and cantering, with or without galloping at 12.5 m/s) 3 times a week for 4 consecutive weeks; duration of each exercise session ranged from 10 to 14 minutes. During the 4-week period, the proximal hoof circumference (PHC) and toe angle (TA) of each forelimb hoof were measured weekly with a flexible measuring tape and a hoof gauge, respectively. Forelimb hoof wall strains were measured bilaterally at the toe and each quarter (3 strain gauges) immediately before the first and after the last exercise session.

Results—Strain measurements revealed a consistent pattern of deformation of the hoof wall in both forelimbs at all gaits; strains increased during the stance phase of the stride. Strain values were dependent on site and gait. Compared with initial findings, mean TA increased significantly, whereas mean PHC did not, after the 4-week exercise period. A relationship between TA changes and hoof wall strains could not be established.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In unshod horses, forelimb hoof wall strains were affected by site and gait, but not by discrete changes in TA; PHC did not change in response to moderate regular exercise. The pattern of hoof loading was consistent despite significant changes in TA.
Mitochondrial dysfunction in myocardium obtained from clinically normal dogs, clinically normal anesthetized dogs, and dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sleeper Meg M. , Rosato Bradley P. , Bansal Seema , Avadhani Narayan G.
Published: October 2012

Objective—To compare mitochondrial complex I and complex IV activity in myocardial mitochondria of clinically normal dogs, clinically normal dogs exposed to inhalation anesthesia, and dogs affected with dilated cardiomyopathy.

Sample—Myocardial samples obtained from 21 euthanized dogs (6 clinically normal [control] dogs, 5 clinically normal dogs subjected to inhalation anesthesia with isoflurane prior to euthanasia, 5 dogs with juvenile-onset dilated cardiomyopathy, and 5 dogs with adult-onset dilated cardiomyopathy).

Procedures—Activity of mitochondrial complex I and complex IV was assayed spectrophotometrically in isolated mitochondria from left ventricular tissue obtained from the 4 groups of dogs.

Results—Activity of complex I and complex IV was significantly decreased in anesthetized dogs, compared with activities in the control dogs and dogs with juvenile-onset or adult-onset dilated cardiomyopathy.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Inhalation anesthesia disrupted the electron transport chain in the dogs, which potentially led to an outburst of reactive oxygen species that caused mitochondrial dysfunction. Inhalation anesthesia depressed mitochondrial function in dogs, similar to results reported in other species. This effect is important to consider when anesthetizing animals with myocardial disease and suggested that antioxidant treatments may be beneficial in some animals. Additionally, this effect should be considered when designing studies in which mitochondrial enzyme activity will be measured. Additional studies that include a larger number of animals are warranted.
Effects of high-intensity training on lipid metabolism in Thoroughbreds
Authors: Kitaoka Yu , Mukai Kazutaka , Aida Hiroko , Hiraga Atsushi , Masuda Hiroyuki , Takemasa Tohru , Hatta Hideo
Published: October 2012

Objective—To investigate the effects of high-intensity training (HIT) on carbohydrate and fat metabolism in Thoroughbreds.

Animals—12 Thoroughbreds (3 to 4 years old; 6 males and 6 females).

Procedures—Horses performed HIT for 18 weeks. They ran at 90% or 110% of maximal oxygen consumption (o2max) for 3 minutes (5 d/wk) and were subjected to incremental exercise testing (IET) before and after training. Blood samples were collected during IET, and muscle samples were obtained from the gluteus medius muscle immediately after IET. Phosphofructokinase, citrate synthase, and β-3-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase (β-HAD) activities were measured to determine glycolytic and oxidative capacities. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α) and fatty acid translocase (FAT/CD36) protein contents were detected via western blotting. Metabolome analysis was performed via capillary electrophoresis–electrospray ionization mass spectrometry to measure substrate concentrations related to carbohydrate metabolism.

Results—Peak speed during IET and o2max increased after HIT. Activities of citrate synthase and β-HAD increased after HIT, whereas phosphofructokinase activity remained unchanged. The PGC-1α and FAT/CD36 protein contents increased after HIT, but plasma lactate concentration and the respiratory exchange ratio decreased after HIT. The plasma free fatty acid concentration increased after HIT, whereas the glucose concentration was not altered. Fructose 1,6-diphosphate, phosphoenolpyruvate, and pyruvate concentrations decreased after HIT.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—HIT caused an increase in oxidative capacity in equine muscle, which suggested that there was a decreased reliance on carbohydrate utilization and a concomitant shift toward fatty acid utilization during intensive exercise.
Problem brown bears Ursus arctos in Finland in relation to bear feeding for tourism purposes and the density of bears and humans
Authors: Kojola Ilpo , Heikkinen Samuli
Published: October 2012

The practice of feeding brown bears Ursus arctos for recreational purposes is common in the easternmost areas of Finland, but this may, however, result in human‐habituated bears. From 1995 to 2008, 3% of all bears killed by humans (N = 1,108 bears) in Finland represented incidents where bears were either killed for reasons of human safety under a license issued by the police or as a result of actual emergency situations where bears were shot in self defence. We constructed binary logistic regression models for comparing bears shot under police license and in self defence with bears killed in regular sport hunting by using the sex of the bear, human density, bear observation density and the distance from the nearest feeding site as independent variables. High human density was the most important factor differentiating bears shot under a license issued by police from bears killed in sport hunting. The difference in human density was largest for places located far from feeding sites. Increasing distance from feeding sites differentiated bears shot under police license and in self defence from sport hunted bears. The sex of the bears and the density of bear observation were more weakly associated with the category of shooting. Our study did not provide evidence that bear feeding for recreational purposes is associated with the nuisance‐bear problem in Finland. Nevertheless, some risks for human safety might be associated with artificial bear feeding for tourism purposes. If the practice of feeding bears continues to be accepted by Finnish legislation, game management should include an action plan for occasions when bears visiting feeding sites will lose their wariness of humans.
High levels of ochratoxin A in blood serum and kidneys of wild boars Sus scrofa in Poland
Authors: Grajewski Jan , Twarużek Magdalena , Kosicki Robert
Published: October 2012

The aim of our study was to evaluate the ochratoxin A (OTA) concentration in the blood serum and kidneys of wild boars Sus scrofa in two consecutive years. We took samples from wild boars hunted in five regions of northwestern Poland during November and December 2006 (N = 39) and throughout 2007 (N = 62). The body weight of the animals ranged from 35 to 100 kg. As a control, we used 20 pigs Sus scrofa domestica of an average body weight of 100 kg. We extracted the OTA and then purified it on immunoaffinity columns. The amount of OTA was determined using HPLC‐FLD. The OTA concentration varied among individual animals, some of which had extremely high levels in their blood serum (1,170 ng/ml) and kidneys (97 ng/g). The 2006 average OTA concentration in the serum was similar to the average found in 2007 (6.15 ng/ml and 5.91 ng/ml, respectively). In 2006, the concentration of OTA in the serum of wild boars was > 3 times higher than the concentration found in the serum of pigs. We detected a higher level of OTA in the kidneys of wild boars in both 2006 (1.77 ng/g) and 2007 (2.34 ng/g) than the levels present in the kidneys of pigs (0.59 ng/g). In conclusion, the content of OTA in the serum and kidneys of wild boars changed with year and region. The OTA levels in wild boars from certain regions were much higher than in other regions, and such high levels may cause nephropathy in wild boars and thus pose a possible threat to consumers.
First report of Spirocerca lupi infection in red fox Vulpes vulpes in Greece
Authors: Diakou Anastasia , Karamanavi Elisavet , Eberhard Mark , Kaldrimidou Eleni
Published: October 2012

During the necropsy of a red fox Vulpes vulpes that had died from poisoning, we found a nodule of 2 × 3 cm in size in the gastric wall, which was caused by the nematode Spirocerca lupi. The histological features of the parasite include a smooth cuticle, large chords of the hypodermis, muscle cells of the polymyarian/coelomyarian type and large intestine cells with prominent microvillus border. The nodule was infiltrating different layers of the gastric wall and consisted of granulation tissue, with various inflammatory cells and active fibroblasts. This is the first report of S. lupi infection in the red fox in Greece.
Guidelines for Timing Yellow and Red Intervals at Signalized Intersections
Authors: McGee Hugh , Moriarty Kevin , Gates Timothy J.
Published: October 2012

The lack of a national standard, recommended practice, or set of guidelines for determining the duration of the yellow change and red clearance intervals for the timing of traffic signals has left each transportation agency to determine its own practices. The objective of NCHRP Project 03–95 was to develop a comprehensive and uniform set of recommended guidelines for determining safe and operationally efficient yellow and red intervals at signalized intersections. To accomplish this objective, the study established a state of knowledge and a state of practice through a review of existing guidelines and various literature sources and a survey of transportation agency practitioners. The research also conducted a comprehensive national investigation of driver behavioral characteristics through an extensive field data collection and analysis effort. These efforts confirmed the accepted values for perception–reaction time (1.0 s) and deceleration rate (10 ft/s2) and established 85th percentile speed estimations for through and left-turning vehicles. Justification was also provided for accounting for start-up delay. From the findings, a succinct recommended guideline for the timing of yellow change and red clearance intervals was formulated on the basis of a kinematic equation and its associated variable values. The recommended guideline encourages a uniform practical application that provides a framework that can be easily adopted into transportation agency practice.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Driver Behavior to Establish Parameters for Timing of Yellow Change and Red Clearance Intervals
Authors: Gates Timothy J. , McGee Hugh , Moriarty Kevin , Maria Honey-Um
Published: October 2012

In 2009, NCHRP Project 03–95 sought to develop a comprehensive, uniform set of recommended guidelines for determining safe and operationally efficient yellow change and red clearance (i.e., all-red) intervals at signalized intersections. Before guideline development, a comprehensive field study of driver behavior was performed to establish the three primary parameters found in a commonly used kinematic equation (the ITE equation): perception–reaction time, deceleration rate, and approach speed. To provide broad nationwide representation of driver characteristics, site conditions, and traffic signal timing practices, 83 study approaches were evenly selected from four regions of the United States: Southeast Michigan, Central Florida, Southern California, and Greater Washington, D.C. Driver behavior data were collected at each site with an elevated high-definition video camera. The resulting data set included 2,458 first-to-stop dilemma zone vehicles that were less than 5.5 s upstream of the intersection at the start of the yellow interval. The study's overall mean brake response time of 1.00 s was identical to ITE's recommended default value of 1.0 s for timing of the yellow interval, and the overall mean deceleration rate of 10.08 ft/s2 was very close to ITE's recommended deceleration rate of 10 ft/s2. The study determined that the 85th percentile speed of free-flowing through-moving vehicles approaching a signalized intersection may be accurately estimated by adding 7 miles per hour (mph) to the posted speed limit on the approach. Similarly, the 85th percentile approach speed for free-flowing left-turning vehicles may be accurately estimated by subtracting 5 mph from the posted speed limit.