bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influência do local da desova na incubação de Dermochelys coriacea Vandelli, 1761 (Testudines: Dermochelyidae) na Reserva Biológica de Comboios, norte do estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil
Authors: Santos Conrado Hastenreiter dos , Ferreira Júnior Paulo Dias
Published: January 2010

O local e o momento da desova exercem grande influência na reprodução das tartarugas marinhas uma vez que afetarão a temperatura da incubação dos ovos. O grande dinamismo do ambiente litorâneo pode ocasionar a erosão de parte das praias sendo necessário a transferência de ninhos para locais mais seguros e adequados à embriogênese. Neste trabalho analisou-se como local da desova influencia a duração da incubação e o sucesso da eclosão dos ovos avaliando-se a efetividade da transferência de ninhos como estratégia de manejo. A duração da incubação e o sucesso da eclosão dos ninhos in situ de Dermochelys coriacea na temporada reprodutiva de 2007/2008 na Reserva Biológica de Comboios (ES) não foram influenciados pelo momento da desova ou pelas características da praia refletindo a homogeneidade termal das áreas de nidificação. Os ninhos transferidos apresentaram uma duração de incubação menor que os ninhos in situ. Como a desova de D. coriacea pode ser realizada em ambientes de alta energia, sujeitos à erosão e inundação, a transferência de ninhos é uma estratégia comum nos planos de manejo e conservação. Recomenda-se que as transferências sejam realizadas para pontos mais altos da praia, no limite entre a praia aberta e a berma, mas nas proximidades da desova original, minimizando diferenças no ambiente termal.
Influência da técnica de pressão expiratória positiva oscilante utilizando pressões expiratórias pré-determinadas na viscosidade e na transportabilidade do escarro em pacientes com bronquiectasia
Authors: Ramos Ercy Mara Cipulo , Ramos Dionei , Iyomasa Daniela Mizusaki , Moreira Graciane Laender , Melegati Kátia Cristina Teixeira , Vanderlei Luiz Carlos Marques , Jardim José Roberto , Oliveira Adriana Siqueira de
Published: January 2010

OBJETIVO: Verificar a efetividade da técnica de pressão expiratória positiva oscilante (PEPO) utilizando pressões expiratórias pré-determinadas sobre a viscosidade e a transportabilidade do escarro em pacientes com bronquiectasia. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos no estudo 15 pacientes estáveis com bronquiectasia (7 homens; média de idade = 53 ± 16 anos), submetidos a duas intervenções PEPO consecutivas, com 24 h de intervalo entre si, utilizando pressões expiratórias de 15 cmH2O (P15) e 25 cmH2O (P25). O protocolo consistiu de tosse voluntária; nova expectoração voluntária após 20 min, denominado tempo zero (T0); repouso de 10 min; e utilização da técnica em duas séries de 10 min (S1 e S2) de PEPO em P15 e P25, com intervalo de 10 min entre si. A viscosidade e transportabilidade do escarro foram avaliadas pela viscosimetria, velocidade relativa de transporte no palato de rã, deslocamento em máquina simuladora de tosse e ângulo de adesão. As amostras de escarro foram coletadas em T0, após S1 e após S2. Testes estatísticos específicos foram aplicados de acordo com a distribuição dos dados. RESULTADOS: Houve diminuição significante da viscosidade do escarro após S1 em P15 e após S2 em P25. Não houve diferenças significantes entre todas as amostras para a transportabilidade. CONCLUSÕES: Houve diminuição da viscosidade do escarro quando a PEPO foi realizada em P15 e P25, o que sugere que não seja necessário gerar alta pressão expiratória para obter o resultado desejado.
Evolução do estado nutricional de pacientes desnutridos ou com excesso de peso candidatos a transplante pulmonar
Authors: Esteves Giuliana Bastos , Macedo Alessandra , Nakasato Miyoko , Bruno Maria Lúcia Mendes
Published: January 2010

Estudo retrospectivo, que avaliou a evolução do estado nutricional, por meio de antropometria, de candidatos a transplante pulmonar desnutridos ou com excesso de peso. Foram incluídos pacientes com índice de massa corpórea (IMC) < 17 kg/m² (desnutrido, n = 10) ou IMC > 27 kg/m² (sobrepeso, n = 20) no momento da avaliação inicial. Estes pacientes foram submetidos por três consultas com um nutricionista (intervenções nutricionais). Não houve diferenças significantes nas variáveis antropométricas após as intervenções no grupo desnutrido. Porém, os resultados do grupo sobrepeso mostraram o impacto positivo da intervenção nutricional no peso, IMC e circunferência da cintura dos pacientes.
Genetic associations with asthma and virus-induced wheezing: a systematic review
Authors: Pinto Leonardo Araujo , Stein Renato Tetelbom , Ribeiro José Dirceu
Published: January 2010

Various wheezing phenotypes can be identified based on differences in natural histories, risk factors and responses to treatment. In epidemiologic studies, atopic asthma or virus-induced wheezing can be discriminated by the presence or the absence of sensitization to allergens. Children with asthma have been shown to present lower levels of lung function. Patients with viral respiratory infections evolve from normal lung function to enhanced airway reactivity. The objective of this study was to identify genes and polymorphisms associated with different wheezing phenotypes. Using data obtained from the Genetic Association Database, we systematically reviewed studies on genes and polymorphisms that have been associated with virus-induced wheezing or atopic asthma. The research was carried out in February of 2009. Genes associated with the studied outcomes in more than three studies were included in the analysis. We found that different genes and loci have been associated with virus-induced wheezing or atopic asthma. Virus-induced wheezing has frequently been associated with IL-8 polymorphisms, whereas atopic asthma and atopy have frequently been associated with Th2 cytokine gene (CD14 and IL-13) polymorphisms on chromosome 5. This review provides evidence that different wheezing disorders in childhood can be differently affected by genetic variations, considering their role on airway inflammation and atopy. Future studies of genetic associations should consider the different wheezing phenotypes in infancy. In addition, stratified analyses for atopy can be useful for elucidating the mechanisms of the disease.
O papel do estresse oxidativo na DPOC: conceitos atuais e perspectivas
Authors: Cavalcante Antonio George de Matos , Bruin Pedro Felipe Carvalhedo de
Published: January 2010

A DPOC é uma causa importante de morbidade e mortalidade em escala global. As manifestações clínicas e funcionais da DPOC resultam de danos pulmonares provocados por um conjunto de mecanismos, incluindo o estresse oxidativo, a inflamação, o desequilíbrio do sistema protease-antiprotease e a apoptose. O estresse oxidativo é central na gênese da DPOC, pois além de provocar dano direto às estruturas pulmonares, amplifica os demais mecanismos. Os eventos celulares e moleculares responsáveis pelo dano pulmonar antecedem em muito a expressão clínica e funcional da DPOC. Os broncodilatadores, principais drogas empregadas atualmente no tratamento da DPOC, não são eficazes em reduzir a progressão da doença. Avanços na compreensão da patogênese da DPOC aliados a esforços renovados na pesquisa básica e clínica deverão permitir sua detecção na fase pré-clínica e possibilitar um monitoramento mais adequado de sua atividade, além de permitir a introdução de novas modalidades de agentes terapêuticos capazes de impedir eficazmente sua progressão.
Tratamento cirúrgico das doenças da transição cervicotorácica
Authors: Herrero Carlos Fernando Pereira da Silva , Penno Ricardo Alberto Lupinacci , Defino Helton LA
Published: January 2010

OBJETIVO: avaliar o resultado do tratamento cirúrgico de pacientes portadores de doenças na transição cervicotorácica da coluna vertebral. MÉTODOS: foram avaliados, retrospectivamente, 20 pacientes: nove (45%) apresentavam lesões traumáticas, sete (35%) lesões neoplásicas e quatro (20%) doenças degenerativas. No grupo de pacientes com lesões traumáticas, foi realizada fixação posterior em cinco deles (55,5%), fixação anterior em um (11,1%) e abordagem combinada (anterior e posterior) em três (33,3%). Dos sete pacientes com lesões tumorais, quatro (57,1%) foram submetidos ao tratamento cirúrgico pela abordagem combinada e três (42,8%) pela abordagem posterior isolada. No grupo de pacientes com doenças degenerativas da coluna vertebral, três (75%) foram tratados pela abordagem posterior e um (25%) de forma combinada. Todos os pacientes foram avaliados por meio de parâmetros clínicos (dor e déficit neurológico), radiológicos (manutenção da redução, soltura ou quebra dos implantes) e funcionais (SF-36, escala de dor e trabalho de Denis). RESULTADOS: os 20 pacientes foram seguidos por um período que variou de seis meses a 11 anos (média de 44,6 meses ± 29,02). Dos 13 pacientes que apresentavam déficit neurológico, oito apresentaram melhora do nível na escala de Frankel (61,5%) e cinco pacientes (38,4%) permaneceram com o quadro inalterado. Como complicações um paciente (5%) apresentou soltura do implante e quatro pacientes evoluíram com infecção pós-operatória (20%). Segundo as escalas de dor e trabalho de Denis, 80% dos pacientes apresentavam pouca ou nenhuma dor (P1 e P2) e 70% dos pacientes tinham retornado ao trabalho (W1, W2 e W3). Os pacientes que não apresentavam déficit neurológico (Frankel E) obtiveram escores mais altos de qualidade de vida pelo questionário SF-36, quando comparados aos escores dos pacientes que mantinham alterações neurológicas (Frankel A-D). CONCLUSÃO: o tratamento das doenças da transição cervicotorácica da coluna vertebral apresenta detalhes adicionais aos demais segmentos da coluna vertebral. Na vigência de tratamento cirúrgico, existem pontos a serem respeitados como a anatomia relacionada ao acesso cirúrgico, as características anatômicas peculiares das vértebras e a biomecânica singular desse segmento da coluna vertebral.
Influência do macheamento na interface do parafuso e do tecido ósseo na fase imediata pós-implante
Authors: Masson Fabiano Pinheiro de Lemos , Shimano Antônio Carlos , Defino Helton LA
Published: January 2010

OBJETIVO: analisar experimentalmente as alterações agudas da interface entre o osso e o implante nas vértebras cervicais após a realização do macheamento do orifício piloto. MÉTODOS: foram utilizados cinco carneiros da raça Santa Inês deslanados. Na terceira vértebra cervical, foram feitos orifícios de 2,5 mm, de ambos os lados, na parte proximal e distal. No orifício proximal direito, foi realizado o macheamento antes da inserção do parafuso cortical de 3,5 mm (Grupo A); no orifício proximal esquerdo, o parafuso foi inserido sem macheamento (Grupo B); os outros dois orifícios distais foram utilizados como controle (Grupo C). As alterações da interface entre o osso e o implante foram analisadas por meio de estudo histomorfométrico, considerando o número de trabéculas fraturadas entre os filetes de rosca; a maior distância da fratura trabecular transversal provocada pela inserção do parafuso; a maior extensão da fratura trabecular longitudinal provocada pela inserção do parafuso e a linha de contato na interface osso-parafuso. RESULTADOS: o macheamento do orifício piloto provocou alterações da microestrutura do tecido ósseo ao redor do implante quando comparado às alterações produzidas pela inserção do parafuso sem o macheamento ou orifício piloto. A avaliação do contato entre o osso e o implante foi o parâmetro que apresentou diferença estatística na comparação entre a colocação do implante com e sem machemanto. CONCLUSÃO: na comparação com o orifício piloto, todos os parâmetros analisados apresentaram diferença estatística.
Tratamento conservador da fratura toracolombar do tipo explosão: análise radiográfica da cifose pós-traumática
Authors: Avanzi Osmar , Landim Elcio , Meves Robert , Caffaro Maria Fernanda Silber , Umeta Ricardo Shigueaki , Miguel Neto Cristovam
Published: January 2010

INTRODUÇÃO: a cifose pós-traumática é uma complicação do tratamento conservador da fratura toracolombar tipo explosão. A maioria das séries avalia todos os subtipos de Magerl e discute seus achados com base na perda média de cifose no acompanhamento. OBJETIVO: avaliação do desfecho radiográfico quanto à cifose nos portadores de fraturas do subtipo A3 de Magerl de acordo com a variação das médias entre os indivíduos após acompanhamento mínimo de um ano. MÉTODOS: estudo retrospectivo com 36 pacientes submetidos à realização de gesso antigravitacional ou colete TLSO. A mensuração da cifose foi realizada pelo método de Cobb no momento da admissão no hospital e no final do acompanhamento médio de 66 meses. RESULTADOS: não houve diferença estatística entre a cifose antes e após o tratamento (12,2° versus 13,4°; p=0,2544). CONCLUSÃO: a cifose radiográfica no final do acompanhamento é similar à cifose encontrada nas radiografias iniciais neste grupo de pacientes.
Resección de hemivértebra con técnica de eggshell en cifoescoliosis congénita: resultados en niños entre uno y siete años
Authors: Ocampo Gonzalo Arriagada , Ferreyra Andrés Chahin , Contreras Samuel Pantoja , Leighton Marcela Chamorro
Published: January 2010

INTRODUCCIÓN: La hemivértebra es la causa de 50% de las cifoescoliosis congénitas y en general requiere tratamiento quirúrgico. OBJETIVO: evaluar los resultados clínicos y radiológicos de la resección de hemivértebra con técnica de eggshell en niños entre uno y siete años. DISEÑO DEL ESTUDIO: análisis retrospectivo de pacientes sometidos a resección de hemivértebra con técnica de eggshell. MÉTODOS: entre Enero del 2006 y Junio del 2008, siete hemivértebras fueron resecadas en siete pacientes consecutivos, entre uno y siete años de edad. Se revisó retrospectivamente las fichas clínicas y radiografías. La edad promedio al momento de la cirugía fue 3,2 años (rango de uno a siete años) y el seguimiento promedio fue de 17 meses (rango 7 a 35 meses). Se registró ángulo de Cobb de la escoliosis y cifosis en el preoperatorio y al término del seguimiento, tiempo operatorio, transfusión de glóbulos rojos y complicaciones. RESULTADOS: el ángulo preoperatorio promedio de la escoliosis fue 35° y 19° al término del seguimiento, con un 40% de corrección. El ángulo preoperatorio promedio de la cifosis fue 42° y 25° al término del seguimiento, con un 33% de corrección. Cuatro pacientes necesitaron transfusión de glóbulos rojos, promedio 1,25 unidades. El tiempo quirúrgico promedio fue 225 minutos. Dos pacientes presentaron complicaciones, una rotura dural y una fractura pedicular. No se presentaron complicaciones neurológicas. Todos los pacientes presentaban fusión sólida al término del seguimiento. CONCLUSIÓN: la resección de hemivértebra con técnica de eggshell es un procedimiento seguro, que permite una excelente e inmediata corrección de la cifoescoliosis congénita, la que se mantiene en el corto plazo.
Enredando lutas cotidianas: dispositivos de saúde pela cidade
Authors: Silva Arielle Rocha de Oliveira , Detoni Camila Lenhaus , Pinheiro Diego Arthur Lima , Pereira Joana Paula , Rocha Lutz Franthesco da Silva , Magalhães Natalia Mendonça , Valejo Nathalia Galvão , Haacke Tatiany Ribeiro , Oliveira Sonia Pinto
Published: January 2010

A partir das experiências de intervenções em serviços públicos de saúde e em outros setores da cidade, este trabalho afirma uma prática oficineira descentralizada capaz de compor na construção de redes sociais, servindo de instrumento de análise e possibilitando a invenção de modos de vida e afirmação de singularidades. As intervenções na cidade abrem caminhos para mudanças nos processos em curso e contribuem para a produção de saúde/cidadania por meio da potência conectiva das lutas. O enlace dessas temáticas visa ampliar o campo problemático da atenção psicossocial e fortalecer a luta antimanicomial no Espírito Santo, apostando em novas formas de atuação.
Tecnificação da vida: uma discussão sobre o discurso da medicalização da sociedade
Authors: Dantas Jurema Barros
Published: January 2010

Neste artigo pensaremos a noção de medicalização da sociedade e da existência cotidiana como um discurso de "tecnificação" da vida. Aderida a uma crença quase absoluta no discurso técnico, a contemporaneidade parece se anestesiar com as descobertas de substâncias que prometem solução para todos os problemas. O medicamento se apresenta como um possível exemplo desse aparato que, baseado em alta tecnologia, promete o alcance de um bem-estar pessoal e social. Este discurso "tecnificante" da vida se apresenta quase como discurso mítico, onde a apreensão da realidade se dá através de uma narrativa cuja eficácia é determinada pela potência misteriosa das substâncias.
Distribuição e variação na pelagem de Callicebus coimbrai (Primates, Pitheciidae) nos estados de Sergipe e Bahia, Brasil
Authors: Sousa Marcelo Cardoso , Santos Sidnei Sampaio , Valente Mariana Coelho Marques
Published: January 2010

No abstract
Application of hydroinformatics tools for water quality modeling and management: case study of Vientiane, Lao P.D.R
Authors: Mark O. , Lacoursière J. O. , Vought L. B.-M. , Amena Z. , Babel M. S.
Published: January 2010

The application of hydroinformatics tools is restricted in developing countries due to the non-availability of the required data and information under local conditions. This paper presents the state of water quality of the city of Vientiane (capital of Lao PDR) before the extensive rectification of its drainage network and describes an approach and methodology for water quality modeling. This is done with respect to the application of a combined hydrodynamic/water quality model based on minimal input data and observations for model verification. It further evaluates options to improve the deteriorating water quality observed in the rectified channels associated with the absence of suitable wastewater treatment. Two pollutants associated with the enrichment of receiving water bodies by wastewaters, total-P and NH4-N, are modeled. The modelling study is carried out in three steps: dry weather flow simulation, wet weather flow simulation and nutrient modeling using MOUSE. The dry weather flow simulations are carried out to calibrate the model for hydraulic roughness coefficient, dispersion coefficient and travel time. The wet weather flow simulations analyze the effect on flooding of two channel states, namely unvegetated and vegetated conditions. Nutrient modeling therefore evaluates removal efficiency by the vegetation. Model results are compared with the observed data and recommendations are made with respect to the predicted effects of the water quality improvement schemes studied. In conclusion, the modeling approach herein presented can be applied for performance analyses of urban channels in the developing part of the world, where data are often limited.
Application of neuro-fuzzy model to estimate the characteristics of local scour downstream of stilling basins
Authors: Farhoudi J. , Hosseini S. M. , Sedghi-Asl M.
Published: January 2010

The local scour phenomenon in the vicinity of bridge piers and stilling basins has received considerable attraction from designers due to its consequences which may endanger these structures. Various factors govern the pattern of scour evolution which results in the complexity of this phenomenon. Many researchers indicated that the use of fuzzy logic in modeling this phenomenon could be a promising alternative to reflect the vagueness and ambiguity of effective parameters. The aim of this study is to investigate the performance of a neuro-fuzzy model based on Takagi and Sugeno's theory in estimating the maximum depths, pattern and time evolution of scour hole downstream of a stilling basin of U.S.B.R. type I. The investigation was conducted under various discharges, tail-water depths (low, balanced and high), different bed materials and model sizes. The characteristics of the equilibrium state of the scour phenomenon as well as the time to reach the maximum scour depth were considered. The results showed a significant conformity between estimated and experimental data which recommends an acceptable outcome using a neuro-fuzzy model to forecast the properties of scour hole downstream of stilling basins. This would contribute to predicting the design geometry of stilling pools and taking the appropriate precautions to protect the downstream channel bed.
Analysis of first flush to improve the water quality in rainwater tanks
Authors: Kus B. , Kandasamy J. , Vigneswaran S. , Shon H. K.
Published: January 2010

Although most Australians receive their domestic supply from reticulated mains or town water, there are vast areas with very low population densities and few reticulated supplies. In many of these areas rainwater collected in tanks is the primary source of drinking water. Heavy metals have recently become a concern as their concentration in rain water tanks was found to exceed recommended levels suitable for human consumption. Rainwater storage tanks also accumulate contaminants and sediments that settle to the bottom. Although not widely acknowledged, small amounts of contaminants such as lead found in rain water (used as drinking water) may have a cumulative and poisonous effect on human health over a life time. This is true for certain factors that underlie many of the chronic illnesses that are becoming increasingly common in contemporary society. The paper reports on a study which is part of a project that aims to develop a cost effective in-line filtration system to improve water quality in rainwater tanks. To enable this, the characteristics of rainwater need to be known. One component of this characterization is to observe the effects of the first flush on a rainwater tank. Samples of the roof runoff collected from an urban residential roof located in the Sydney Metropolitan Area in the initial first few millimetres of rain were analysed. The results show that bypassing the first 2 mm of rainfall gives water with most water quality parameters compliant with the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG) standards. The parameters that did not comply were lead and turbidity, which required bypassing approximately the first 5 mm of rainfall to meet ADWG standards. Molecular weight distribution (MWD) analysis showed that the concentration of rainwater organic matter (RWOM) decreased with increasing amount of roof runoff.
Treatment of high-strength pharmaceutical wastewater by electrocoagulation combined with anaerobic process
Authors: Deshpande A. M. , Satyanarayan S. , Ramakant S.
Published: January 2010

This article discusses a combined treatment system comprising electrocoagulation (EC) as a pre-treatment followed by anaerobic fixed film fixed bed reactor (AFFBR) for treatment of high strength pharmaceutical wastewater. The effect of various operating parameters such as pH, current density and electrolysis duration on COD, BOD and colour removal was studied. The maximum removals for COD, BOD and colour under optimal operating conditions i.e. pH 7.2, current density (CD) of 80 A/m2 and electrolysis time of 25 minutes were 24%, 35% and 70.25% respectively. Increase in current density has resulted in decrease in electrolysis duration with marginal improvement in treatment efficiency. The efficiency of removal is discussed in terms of kg CODr A−1m−2h−1 and energy consumption as Wh kg−1CODr. The effluents obtained after EC were treated by AFFBR at various organic loading rates (OLRs) and hydraulic retention times (HRTs). The results indicated removals in the range of 80–90% for COD and 86–94% for BOD respectively, at OLRs between 0.6 to 4.0 Kg COD/m3 d at an HRT of 2 days. The total gas quantity increased with increase in both HRT and OLR up to a loading of 6 Kg COD/m3/d but it did not commensurate with organic load. The results indicated that the combined treatment option is competitive and can be used effectively for high strength wastewaters.
Classification and regression tree (CART) analysis for indicator bacterial concentration prediction for a Californian coastal area
Authors: Bae Hun-Kyun , Olson Betty H. , Hsu Kuo-Lin , Sorooshian Soroosh
Published: January 2010

The study used existing indicator bacterial data and a number of physicochemical parameters that can be measured instantaneously to determine if a decision tree approach, especially classification and regression tree, could be used to predict bacterial concentrations in timely manner for beach closure management. Each indicator bacteria showed different tree structures and each had its own significant variables; Dissolved oxygen played an important role for both total coliform and fecal coliform and turbidity was the most important factor to predict concentrations of enterococci for decision tree approaches. Root mean squared error stayed between 5 and 6.5% of the average values of observations; RMSEs from each simulation, 0.25 for total coliform, 0.31 for fecal coliform, and 0.29 for enterococci. Estimations from tree structures would be regarded as a good representation of the actual data. In addition to results of the objective function, RMSE, 77.5% of actual value fell into the 95% of confidence interval of estimations for total coliform concentrations, 60% for fecal coliform concentrations, and 62.5% for enterococci concentrations. The approach showed reliable estimations for the majority of the data processed, although the method did not portray low concentrations of bacteria as well.
Detection of enteric viruses in sewage sludge and treated wastewater effluent
Authors: Schlindwein A. D. , Rigotto C. , Simões C. M. O. , Barardi C. R. M.
Published: January 2010

Sewage sludge and treated wastewater when contaminated with enteric virus and discharged into the environment, could pose a human health risk. The aim of study was to verify the presence and viability of enteric viruses in sewage sludge and treated wastewater at a local sewage plant in Florianopolis city, Brazil. Sewage sludge was concentrated by organic flocculation and polyethylene glycol precipitation and wastewater by electronegative membrane filtration and ultrafiltration by Centriprep Concentrator. Adenovirus (AdV), hepatitis A virus (HAV), and Rotavirus (RV) were examined for all samples for 12 months and Poliovirus (PV) was also tested for in sewage sludge samples. AdV was the most prevalent in both kind of samples, followed by RV, PV (in sludge) and HAV. Viral viability by cell culture (ICC-PCR) was: AdV: 100%, HAV: 16.7%, PV: 91.7%, RV: 25% in sludge and AdV: 66.6%, HAV: 66.6% and RV: 0% in wastewater. IFA for AdV in sludge ranged from 70 to 300 FFU/ml. QPCR for AdV ranged from 4.6 × 104 to 1.2 × 106 and from 50 to 1.3 × 104 gc/ml in sludge and wastewater, respectively. HAV quantification in sludge ranged from 3.1 × 102 to 5.4 × 102 gc/ml. In conclusion, it was possible to correlate presence and viability of enteric viruses in the environmental samples analyzed.
Urban water quality modelling: a parsimonious holistic approach for a complex real case study
Authors: Freni Gabriele , Mannina Giorgio , Viviani Gaspare
Published: January 2010

In the past three decades, scientific research has focused on the preservation of water resources, and in particular, on the polluting impact of urban areas on natural water bodies. One approach to this research has involved the development of tools to describe the phenomena that take place on the urban catchment during both wet and dry periods. Research has demonstrated the importance of the integrated analysis of all the transformation phases that characterise the delivery and treatment of urban water pollutants from source to outfall. With this aim, numerous integrated urban drainage models have been developed to analyse the fate of pollution from urban catchments to the final receiving waters, simulating several physical and chemical processes. Such modelling approaches require calibration, and for this reason, researchers have tried to address two opposing needs: the need for reliable representation of complex systems, and the need to employ parsimonious approaches to cope with the usually insufficient, especially for urban sources, water quality data. The present paper discusses the application of a bespoke model to a complex integrated catchment: the Nocella basin (Italy). This system is characterised by two main urban areas served by two wastewater treatment plants, and has a small river as the receiving water body. The paper describes the monitoring approach that was used for model calibration, presents some interesting considerations about the monitoring needs for integrated modelling applications, and provides initial results useful for identifying the most relevant polluting sources.
Managing water resources for sustainable development: the case of integrated river basin management in China
Authors: Song X. , Ravesteijn W. , Frostell B. , Wennersten R.
Published: January 2010

The emerging water crisis in China shows that the current institutional frameworks and policies with regard to water resources management are incapable of achieving an effective and satisfactory situation that includes Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM). This paper analyses this framework and related policies, examines their deficiencies in relation to all water stress problems and explores alternatives focusing on river basins. Water resources management reforms in modern China are reviewed and the main problems involved in transforming the current river management system into an IRBM-based system are analysed. The Huai River basin is used as an example of current river basin management, with quantitative data serving to show the scale and scope of the problems in the country as a whole. The institutional reforms required are discussed and a conceptual institutional framework is proposed to facilitate the implementation of IRBM in China. In particular, the roles, power and responsibilities of River Basin Commissions (RBCs) should be legally strengthened; the functions of supervising, decision-making and execution should be separated; and cross-sectoral legislation, institutional coordination and public participation at all levels should be promoted.
Photo-assisted electrochemical degradation of real textile wastewater
Authors: Alves P. A. , Malpass G. R. P. , Johansen H. D. , Azevedo E. B. , Gomes L. M. , Vilela W. F. D. , Motheo A. J.
Published: January 2010

In the present study, photo-assisted electrochemical degradation of real textile wastewater was performed. Degradation assays were performed at constant current (40 mA cm−2) in a combined electro/photochemical flow-cell using a Ti/Ru0.3Ti0.7O2 DSA® type electrode. The results show that the method is capable of removing color and chemical oxygen demand (COD) from the effluent. Additionally, the effect of initial pH and type of supporting electrolyte (Na2SO4 or NaCl) was investigated. The principal figures of merit used in this study were COD removal and color removal (605 nm). The results show that up to 72% color and up to 59% COD removal in 120 min is possible under the operating conditions employed. Studies of the phytotoxicity of the wastewater before and after the photo-assisted degradation assays are also presented and the results demonstrate that the toxicity of the effluent is dependent on the length of electrolysis time and the treatment procedure employed.
Performance Assessment of a Street‐Drainage Bioretention System
Authors: Chapman Cameron , Horner Richard R.
Published: January 2010

Event‐based, flow‐paced composite sampling was carried out at the inlet and outlet of a street‐side bioretention facility in Seattle, Washington, to assess its ability to reduce street runoff quantity and pollutants. Over 2.5 years, 48 to 74% of the incoming runoff was lost to infiltration and evaporation. Outlet pollutant concentrations were significantly lower than those at the inlet for nearly all monitored constituents. In terms of mass, the system retained most of the incoming pollutants. Besides soluble reactive phosphorus (the mass of which possibly increased), dissolved copper was the least effectively retained; at least 58% of dissolved copper (and potentially as much as 79%) was captured by the system. Motor oil was removed most effectively, with 92 to 96% of the incoming motor oil not leaving the system. The results indicate that bioretention systems can achieve a high level of runoff retention and treatment in real‐weather conditions.
Gaseous Nitrogen and Carbon Emissions from a Full‐Scale Deammonification Plant
Authors: Weissenbacher Norbert , Takacs Imre , Murthy Sudhir , Fuerhacker Maria , Wett Bernhard
Published: January 2010

The aim of this work was to give a quantitative description of the gaseous nitrogen and carbon emissions of a full‐scale deammonification plant (DEMON system). Deammonification accounted for the net carbon sequestration of 0.16 g CO2/g NO2‐N. Both nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and nitric oxide (NO) were minor trace gases (<0.1% nitrogen output). However, in comparison, the nitrous oxide (N2O) emission (1.3% nitrogen output) was significant. The global warming potential of the N2O emissions from the DEMON were similar to those found in conventional simultaneous nitrification/denitrification systems; however, CO2 emissions in the investigated system were significantly lower, thereby lessening the overall environmental effect. This was the first time such an analysis has been performed on a DEMON system.
Biological Treatment of a Textile Effluent After Electrochemical Oxidation of Reactive Dyes
Authors: Vilaseca Mercè , Gutiérrez Maria‐Carmen , López‐Grimau Victor , López‐Mesas Montserrat , Crespi Martí
Published: January 2010

In this work, a synthetic textile effluent containing a reactive dye (C.I. Reactive Orange 4) was treated in an electrochemical cell with titanium covered by platinum oxide (Ti/PtOx) electrodes to remove color. The discolored effluent was mixed with other textile mill process effluents (scouring, bleaching, washing, etc.), according to the rate of each effluent in the mill, and was submitted to biological treatment (activated sludge plant). Two biological plants were run simultaneously to evaluate the influence of oxidant products generated during the electrochemical treatment. The final chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal in both plants was 65 to 72%. The yield of the activated sludge plants was not affected by the addition of 10% of the discolored dyeing effluent (even when oxidants products were not removed), which indicates that the previous electrochemical treatment do not produce inhibition effects on the biological plant. However, in the case of direct addition of the discolored effluent, the biological treatment plant required a longer adaptation period. In addition, the electrolytic respirometry tests showed that all the biodegradable organic matter was removed, which implies that the yield in organic matter removal was the maximum possible for this type of treatment.
Bioenergy II: Characterization of the Pesticide Properties of Tobacco Bio-Oil
Authors: Booker Christina J , Bedmutha Rohan , Scott Ian M. , Conn Kenneth , Berruti Franco , Briens Cedric , Yeung Ken K.-C.
Published: January 2010

Pyrolysis converts biomass such as agricultural and forestry waste into bio-oil, preserving some chemicals while creating other, new ones. Nicotine, a chemical present in tobacco leaves and a known pesticide, was found to remain intact during pyrolysis. As expected, insecticidal properties were observed for tobacco bio-oil. Pesticide characteristics of tobacco bio-oil have been observed on the Colorado potato beetle (CPB), a pest currently resistant to all major insecticides, as well as a few bacteria and fungi that do not currently respond well to chemical treatment. Unexpectedly, nicotine-free fractions of the bio-oil were also found to be highly lethal to the beetles and successful at inhibiting the growth of select microorganisms. Through GC-MS, it was found that the active, nicotine-free fractions were rich in phenolics, chemicals likely created from lignin during pyrolysis. While bio-oils in general are known to contain phenolic chemicals, such as cresols, to our best knowledge, quantitative analysis has not been performed to determine if these chemicals are solely responsible for the observed pesticide activities. Based on GC-MS results, ten of the most abundant chemicals, eight of which were phenolic chemicals, were identified and examined through bio-assays. A mixture of these chemicals at the concentration levels found in the bio-oil did not account for the bio-oil activity towards the microorganisms. Tobacco bio-oil may have potential as a pesticide, however, further analyses using liquid chromatography is necessary to identify the remaining active chemicals.
Moisture Diffusivity and Energy Consumption during Microwave Drying of Plaster of Paris
Authors: Pillai Magesh Ganesh , Regupathi Iyyasamy , Miranda Lima Rose , Murugesan Thanapalan
Published: January 2010

The drying characteristics of plaster of paris (POP) under microwave conditions at different microwave power input, initial moisture content, sample thickness and drying time were studied. Further the experimental data on moisture ratio of POP for different operating conditions were obtained and calculations were made using nine basic drying model equations. The appropriate model with modified constants and coefficients to represent the drying kinetics of POP was found through the analysis of the statistical analysis. The effective moisture diffusivity of the drying process was also computed for different experimental conditions and a relationship between the drying rate constant and the effective moisture diffusivity was obtained. The energy consumption for microwave drying of plaster of paris at different experimental conditions were also computed.
Leaves and Leaving: The Family and Medical Leave Act and the Decline in Maternal Labor Force Participation
Authors: Goodpaster Natalie K
Published: January 2010

Since the mid-1990s, there has been a steady decrease in the labor force participation of married women with children under the age of six. There is little empirical evidence that changes in demographics are responsible for the falling participation rates. Rather, it appears that this trend is concentrated amongst women with children under the age of two and that federal maternity leave mandates are most responsible. I estimate the effect of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) on participation by using the FMLA as a natural experiment and exploiting state-level differentiation in maternity leave statutes. Theoretically, maternity leave statutes intend to preserve job tenure for expecting mothers. However, if an employed mother on maternity leave learns that her value for staying at home exceeds her value from working, she will exit the labor force once the leave expires. Difference-in-differences estimates show that after the FMLA, employed and expecting married mothers who live in an area without state-mandated maternity leave are 2.7 percentage points more likely to leave the labor force after taking maternity leave than those who live in an area with state-mandated maternity leave. As a sensitivity test, I evaluate married women without infant children and single women as additional control groups to estimate difference-in-difference-in-differences effects of the FMLA. Altogether, the increase in the proportion of mothers leaving the labor force due to federally-mandated maternity leave accounts for almost two-thirds of the overall fall in labor force participation.
Morphological, serological and molecular analyses of anthracnose-causing agent on banana fruit
Authors: Duduk Natasa , Ivanovic Mirko , Duduk Bojan
Published: January 2010

Two species of the genus Colletotrichum, C. musae and C. gloeosporoides, occur as infecting species of banana. The study focused on examining the etiology of anthracnose on banana fruits sold on the domestic market. An isolate was obtained from a diseased banana fruit on PDA medium, forming a white colony with intensive and uniformed growth. It was not possible to identify the isolated fungus based on its morphological characteristics. Positive serological reaction in an ELISA test with monoclonal antibodies for C. acutatum indicated an antigen site for the used monoclonal antibodies. Positive reaction when C. gloeosporioides-specific primers were applied indicated a similarity in the ITS sequence of the fungus and the examined isolate from banana fruit. Although there are no available data in literature that C. gloeosporioides-specific CgInt primer can be used for amplification of the phylogenetically related C. musae, our results do not exclude that the isolate could be C. musae. The host plant, symptoms observed and colony characteristics of the fungus isolated from the banana fruit mostly correspond to C. musae. Based on morphological, antigen and gentic characteristics, the isolate from banana was determined as Colletotrichum sp., while species identification of the anthracnose-causing agent on banana requires additional analysis.
Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. Carotovorum: The causal agent of calla soft rot in Serbia and Montenegro
Authors: Ivanovic Milan , Gasic Katarina , Gavrilovic Veljko , Obradovic Aleksa
Published: January 2010

Bacterial strains were isolated from above- and underground parts of diseased calla plants originating from different localities in Serbia and one locality in Montenegro. They were characterized by studying their pathogenic, cultural, biochemical and physiological characteristics. All investigated strains caused soft rot of calla leaf stalks, potato slices and aloe leaves, and induced hypersensitive reaction on tobacco. Bacteriological properties of the strains indicated that symptoms on calla plants were caused by Gram-negative, nonfluorescent, oxidase negative, catalase positive and facultatively anaerobic bacterium belonging to the genus Pectobacterium. The investigated strains grew at 37?C and in 5% NaCl, utilised lactose and trechalose, and produced neither indol nor lecitinase. These results, as well as the characteristic growth on Logan's differential medium indicated that soft rot of tuber and stem base of calla plants was caused by Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum. This is the first report of this pathogen affecting calla plants in Serbia.
Mutation status of p53 gene in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Popovic Branka , Jekic Biljana , Jelovac Drago , Novakovic Ivana
Published: January 2010

Introduction. p53 gene is the most common tumor suppressor gene involved in pathogenesis oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Protein product of p53 gene contributes to cell cycle control and apoptosis. p53 gene mutations may lead to uncontrolled cell growth. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of mutation in DNA-binding domain of p53 gene. Materials and Methods. In the 60 specimens, the presence of point mutation in exons 5, 6, 7 and 8 was detected using PCR-SSCP method. To confirm the presence of p53 mutation found by SSCP method, five samples were analyzed by sequencing of exon 5. Results. Point mutation affecting exons 5, 6, 7 and 8 were found in 60% of analyzed samples. A higher incidence of mutation was detected in exon 7 and 8 (60%), than in exon 5 and 6. Sequencing of exon 5, confirmed the presence of mutations revealed by SSCP method. Study of associations showed an increase of p53 mutations in poor differentiated and carcinoma of higher clinical stages. Conclusion. p53 gene is one of major factor in control of cell cycle and has important role in pathogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma.
Subjective assessment of mastication as parameter for successful prosthetic therapy
Authors: Milekic Bojana , Puskar Tatjana , Markovic Dubravka
Published: January 2010

Introduction. Success in functional rehabilitation of the craniomandibular system in patients without teeth, which have total prosthesis, can be assessed using different clinical and functional methods. Subjective assessment, motivation, comfort level and functional efficacy are important elements for adaptation to dental prosthesis as well as base for success in prosthetic therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the importance of subjective assessment of the mastication in people with new dental prosthesis as well as to assess the value of that parameter in determining the successful prosthetic therapy. Material and Methods. Study was conducted at the Dental Clinic in Novi Sad. Thirty patients (16 males and 14 females) with average age of 62.5 years who received total prosthesis were included. Analysis was done according to the data from the medical records and conducted survey in the form of questionnaire which was adjusted to our clinical examinations. Results. Results showed that 96.6% of the patients were satisfied with new prosthesis. Subjective assessment of the quality of their mastication before therapy showed that 63.4% consider their mastication as unsatisfied, 26.6% satisfied while 10% of toothless patients thought their mastication was good. Statistic analysis showed there was significant difference in subjective assessment before and after the therapy (p<0.01). In fact, there was significant connection between subjective assessment of the mastication and satisfaction with new prosthesis and therapy at all (p<0.01). Conclusion. Patients satisfaction with total prosthesis and subjective assessment of mastication are in direct correlation with successful prosthetic treatment. Results of subjective assessment of the mastication are important and can be used as a parameter for success along with precise survey.
Photopolymerization of dental materials: Types and characteristics of the light sources
Authors: Popovic Gorjana , Djokic Roze
Published: January 2010

Light from the polymerization source which initiates photopolymerization in the material has its determined wavelength. Photoinitiator, such as camphorhinone, excited by light, can be activated with any of the wavelength from its absorption spectrum. To obtain successful photopolymerization, light source should emit waves of adequate wavelength; light intensity has to be optimal, to have sufficient time of exposure and material up to 2 mm thickness. Photoinitiator inside the material should match light source spectrum and work regime. Halogen lamps have wide spectra of wavelengths in the visible part of the light spectrum. Their spectra are similar to absorption spectrum of camphorhinone. Plasma (xenon) lamps emit blue light. Though their diapason is low, spectra have great intensity. Adequate diapason and easy excitation allow them to have short time of exposure. LED lamps have blue diodes as light source. They do not need filters due to narrow emission spectrum. Laser (argon) lamps are the only that emit linear spectra. Ultraviolet (mercury) lamps are not in use any more in dentistry; theirs initiators were activated by UV light. LED lamps have longer life time; do not change the spectra during time, warm less, do not need filters, allow change of the source for more powerful, more efficient and more advantageous two steps or impulse illumination mode. However, LED lamps can not be used for a material that has photoinitiator(s) activated by light with wavelength above the maximum of the LED spectra.
Application of the intergranular impedance model in correlating microstructure and electrical properties of doped BaTiO3
Authors: Mitic V. , Pavlovic V.B. , Kocic Lj. , Paunovic V. , Mancic D.
Published: January 2010

Microstructure properties of barium-titanate based materials, expressed in grain boundary contacts, are of basic importance for electric properties of this material. In this study, the model of intergranular impedance applied on a two-grain contact is considered. Globally, a BaTiO3-ceramics sample consists of a large number of mutually contacted grains, which form clusters. Such clusters can be presented as specific fractal formations. For each of them, it is possible to establish the equivalent electrical model and, for a defined set of input parameters, using symbolic analysis, obtain the frequency diagram. The influence of fractal structure is especially stressed. Realizing the totality of relations between cluster grain groups, their microelectrical schemes and corresponding frequency characteristics, on one hand, and the global equivalent electrical scheme and corresponding acquired frequency characteristics of BaTiO3-ceramics samples, on the other hand, we set a goal of correlating experimental results with the summing effect of microelectric equivalent schemes. The model is successfully tested on doped barium-titanate ceramics.