bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Herbicides and Application Timing on Weed Control, Yield, and Nutritive Value of Tall Fescue Pastures and Hayfields
Authors: Payne Kristin K. , Sleugh Byron B. , Bradley Kevin W.
Published: November 2010

Field experiments were conducted from 2007 through 2009 at four locations in Missouri to evaluate the effect of May and August herbicide applications on weed control, total biomass yield, and forage nutritive values. Experiments were conducted in established tall fescue pastures that contained natural infestations of common ragweed and tall ironweed. Treatments consisted of 2,4-D, metsulfuron, aminopyralid, 2,4-D + dicamba, 2,4-D + picloram, aminopyralid + 2,4-D, and 2,4-D + dicamba + metsulfuron. All herbicide treatments provided > 76% control of common ragweed 1 mo after treatment (MAT), except metsulfuron alone which provided ≤ 62% control. August applications provided greater reductions in common ragweed density than May applications the following spring. Few differences in tall ironweed density were observed, but metsulfuron-containing herbicides tended to provide the lowest reduction in tall ironweed stem density the following spring. Biomass yields were generally greater in nontreated compared to herbicide-treated plots. Crude protein (CP) concentration and relative feed value (RFV) were higher in nontreated compared with herbicide-treated biomass. Overall, the poorer nutritive values and lower biomass yields in the herbicide-treated compared with the nontreated biomass may be partially explained by the removal of common ragweed, tall ironweed, and legumes with the herbicide treatments. Pure samples of common ragweed and white clover were greater in nutritive values than pure samples of tall fescue at all June harvests. Results indicate that common ragweed offers nutritive values equivalent to or greater than tall fescue and white clover when harvested in June at the vegetative stage of growth and that the removal of common ragweed and tall ironweed with herbicide applications is not likely to improve forage nutritive values of the total harvested biomass of tall fescue pastures, at least by the season after treatment.
Miscanthus × giganteus Response to Preemergence and Postemergence Herbicides
Authors: Anderson Eric K. , Voigt Thomas B. , Bollero Germán A. , Hager Aaron G.
Published: November 2010

Miscanthus is a perennial rhizomatous C4 grass being evaluated in the United States as a potential bioenergy feedstock. Weed control during the first two growing seasons is essential for successful establishment. No herbicides are currently labeled for use in Miscanthus grown for biomass, but herbicides used on field corn might be safe to Miscanthus. Greenhouse experiments were conducted in 2007 and 2008 to evaluate the response of Miscanthus to numerous preemergence (PRE) and postemergence (POST) herbicides. Herbicides with activity only on broadleaf species, whether PRE or POST, did not exhibit injury or reduce Miscanthus biomass. Several herbicides, particularly those with significant activity on grass species, exhibited injury ranging from 6 to 71% (scale of 0 to 100) and/or reduced Miscanthus dry mass by 33 to 78%, especially at the highest rates applied. Field experiments were conducted in 2008 and 2009 with a selection of the herbicides used in the greenhouse experiments to evaluate the response of Miscanthus to herbicides applied PRE, POST and PRE followed by POST. Results from the field experiments generally confirmed those from the greenhouse experiments. PRE herbicides and herbicides with broadleaf-specific activity generally did not produce significant injury or reduce aboveground biomass while herbicides with grass activity tended to cause injury ranging from 22 to 25% and/or reduce biomass by 69 to 78%. With some exceptions, results support prior suppositions that herbicides used in corn are safe to use on Miscanthus and may provide potential herbicide options that growers can use when establishing Miscanthus.
Estrogen and HER-2 Receptor Discordance Between Primary Breast Cancer and Metastasis
Authors: Pusztai Lajos , Viale Giuseppe , Kelly Catherine M. , Hudis Clifford A.
Published: November 2010

Discordance in estrogen receptor and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 receptor status between the primary tumor and recurrence is frequently reported in the literature. This is frequently interpreted as evidence for a change in the biology of breast cancer during the course of the disease. This commentary discusses some of the caveats of this interpretation. Discordant receptor results can be caused by any of 3 factors: (a) a genuine switch in the biology of the disease, (b) sampling error in focally receptor-positive cancers, and (c) limited accuracy and reproducibility of receptor assays. The relative contribution of each of these factors to discordant results is unknown. A switch in molecular class between primary and recurrent cancer (or residual cancer after therapy) appears to be a rare event based on the available limited molecular profiling data. Small pockets of strongly focally receptor-positive tumor nests in a larger receptor-negative cancer are also relatively infrequently seen. Discordance resulting from inherent limitations in assay reproducibility is evident from the frequently discordant receptor results even when the same samples are assessed in different laboratories (e.g., central versus local laboratory). A repeat tumor biopsy is clearly justified when it is suspected, on clinical grounds, that the original receptor results may have been false negative or when the diagnosis of metastatic disease is in question. However, routine repeat biopsy for receptor re-evaluation does not necessarily improve diagnostic accuracy and have a potential to harm through a false-negative result. For patients with clinical courses consistent with hormone responsiveness, or with prior positive hormone receptor results, a course of endocrine therapy is reasonable regardless of the most recent hormone receptor assay result.
Inclusion of Rituximab in Treatment Protocols for Non-Hodgkin's Lymphomas and Risk for Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Tuccori Marco , Focosi Daniele , Blandizzi Corrado , Pelosini Matteo , Montagnani Sabrina , Maggi Fabrizio , Pistello Mauro , Antonioli Luca , Fornai Matteo , Pepe Pasquale , Rossi Giuseppe , Petrini Mario
Published: November 2010

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Evaluate the application of risk estimates of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy to your patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma previously treated with rituximab.Include progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in the differential diagnosis for neurological symptoms in your patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma previously treated with rituximab.

This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com.

Objectives.

Rituximab is an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that promotes better treatment outcomes in patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Case series of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) in patients receiving rituximab within polychemotherapy regimens have led to the introduction of a black box warning, but no risk estimation has ever been provided.

Methods.

We performed a retrospective, monocentric cohort study on 976 NHL patients diagnosed in 1994–2008, including 517 patients who received at least one dose of rituximab.

Results.

Inclusion of rituximab into standard chemotherapy regimens for NHL caused a significantly higher incidence of PML cases (rate difference, 2.2 every 1,000 patient-years; 95% confidence interval, 0.1–4.3).

Interpretation.

Based on this finding, clinical surveillance of PML-related symptoms is recommended in NHL patients exposed to rituximab.
Ridge Preservation Using a Composite Bone Graft and a Bioabsorbable Membrane With and Without Primary Wound Closure: A Comparative Clinical Trial
Authors: Engler‐Hamm Daniel , Cheung Wai S. , Yen Alec , Stark Paul C. , Griffin Terrence
Published: November 2010

Background: The aim of this single‐masked, randomized controlled clinical trial is to compare hard and soft tissue changes after ridge preservation performed with (control, RPc) and without (test, RPe) primary soft tissue closure in a split‐mouth design.

Methods: Eleven patients completed this 6‐month trial. Extraction and ridge preservation were performed using a composite bone graft of inorganic bovine‐derived hydroxyapatite matrix and cell binding peptide P‐15 (ABM/P‐15), demineralized freeze‐dried bone allograft, and a copolymer bioabsorbable membrane. Primary wound closure was achieved on the control sites (RPc), whereas test sites (RPe) left the membrane exposed. Pocket probing depth on adjacent teeth, repositioning of the mucogingival junction, bone width, bone fill, and postoperative discomfort were assessed. Bone cores were obtained for histological examination.

Results: Intragroup analyses for both groups demonstrated statistically significant mean reductions in probing depth (RPc: 0.42 mm, P = 0.012; RPe: 0.25 mm, P = 0.012) and bone width (RPc: 3 mm, P = 0.002; RPe: 3.42 mm, P <0.001). However, intergroup analysis did not find these parameters to be statistically different at 6 months. The test group showed statistically significant mean change in bone fill (7.21 mm; P <0.001). Compared to the control group, the test group showed statistically significant lower mean postoperative discomfort (RPc 4 versus RPe 2; P = 0.002). Histomorphometric analysis showed presence of 0% to 40% of ABM/P‐15 and 5% to 20% of new bone formation in both groups. Comparison of clinical variables between the two groups at 6 months revealed that the mucogingival junction was statistically significantly more coronally displaced in the control group than in the test group, with a mean of 3.83 mm versus 1.21 mm (P = 0.002).

Conclusions: Ridge preservation without flap advancement preserves more keratinized tissue and has less postoperative discomfort and swelling. Although ridge preservation is performed with either method, ≈27% to 30% of bone width is lost.
Expression of Hypoxia‐Inducible Factor‐1α in Human Periodontal Tissue
Authors: Ng King‐Tung , Li Jing‐Ping , Ng Kwong Man , Tipoe George L. , Leung W. Keung , Fung Man‐Lung
Published: November 2010

Background: Hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF)‐1 is a key transcription factor responding to hypoxia. It is composed of an oxygen‐sensitive α subunit (HIF‐1α) and a constitutively expressed β subunit. Increasing evidence indicates an essential role for HIF‐1α in infection and immunity. Because inflamed periodontium is thought to be hypoxic, we hypothesize that HIF‐1α is expressed and related to its upstream regulator tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and downstream effecter vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

Methods: Human gingival biopsies were collected from advanced periodontitis sites and clinically healthy sites, and immunohistochemically examined for HIF‐1α and VEGF peptides. The messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) and protein levels of HIF‐1α, VEGF, and TNF‐α in the biopsies were then assessed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting.

Results: HIF‐1α–positive immunoreactivity was detected in the nuclei of epithelial and endothelial cells. In periodontal pockets, there was a marked increase in the proportion of fibroblast‐like cells and leukocyte‐like cells expressing HIF‐1α. Protein levels of HIF‐1α, VEGF, and TNF‐α were significantly higher in periodontal pockets than in control gingival samples. The mRNA expression of VEGF and TNF‐α was also increased in periodontal pockets.

Conclusion: HIF‐1α is expressed in healthy and diseased periodontium and may be related to TNF‐α and VEGF function during periodontitis.
Simvastatin Application to Augment Facial Jaw Bone in a Dog Model: Pilot Study
Authors: Rutledge John , Schieber Matthew D. , Chamberlain Judd M. , Byarlay Matthew , Killeen Amy C. , Giannini Peter J. , Marx David B. , Reinhardt Richard A.
Published: November 2010

Background: Locally injected simvastatin (SIM) has been shown to induce bone growth in rat models. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of locally injected simvastatin in several human‐like clinical situations in a beagle dog model.

Methods: Four beagle dogs completed the study and were used in a split‐mouth design. Dehiscence defects of 5 × 3 mm were created bilaterally on the lateral aspect of the mandibular second premolar (PM2) mesial roots including removal of root cementum. At the same surgery, porous hydroxyapatite–collagen grafts with resorbable membranes with or without 10‐mg SIM were placed buccal to the mandibular first molars (M1). One week later, three weekly local injections of 10‐mg SIM in ethanol and contralateral ethanol alone were initiated at three sites through the buccal mucosa: 1) 6 mm apical to the cemento‐enamel junction (CEJ) of the maxillary fourth premolar (PM4; thin bone over root); 2) 6 mm apical to the CEJ of PM2 (dehiscence defect); and 3) 10 mm distoapical to the CEJ of the maxillary canine (edentulous ridge). Dogs were euthanized 2 months after the final injections. Block sections were harvested and specimens were decalcified and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Histomorphometry was performed using digitized photographs and analyzed with distribution‐free rank tests.

Results: Regarding M1, the distance between CEJ and the alveolar crest was significantly more coronal in the SIM group (P = 0.038). Regarding the edentulous ridge, the width of new bone was significantly greater in SIM injection specimens (P = 0.0164). Regarding PM2, buccal bone in the dehiscence defects lacking periosteum was not augmented in the SIM group. Regarding PM4, the total width of bone 5 mm apical to the coronal height of contour (thin buccal bone covering the root) was significantly wider on the SIM side (SIM, 0.63 ± 0.53 mm; contralateral ethanol alone, 0.25 ± 0.19 mm; P = 0.0098).

Conclusion: Locally injected SIM has the ability to induce modest amounts of new bone formation in closed injection sites over a periosteal surface.
Serum Levels of C‐Reactive Protein in Adolescents With Periodontitis
Authors: López Rodrigo , Baelum Vibeke , Hedegaard Chris Juul , Bendtzen Klaus
Published: November 2010

Background: The results of several cross‐sectional studies suggested a relationship between periodontitis and higher serum levels of C‐reactive protein (CRP). Most of these studies were restricted to adult study groups with severe periodontal inflammation, and the potential effects of confounding factors were frequently overlooked.

Methods: A case‐referent study comprised of 87 adolescent cases who presented with clinical attachment loss ≥3 mm recorded in ≥2 of 16 teeth and 73 controls who did not fulfill these criteria was nested in a fully enumerated adolescent population. Venous blood samples were obtained, and CRP levels were quantified, using a high‐sensitive bead‐based flow cytometric assay. The Mann‐Whitney U test was used to assess overall differences between groups.

Results: The median serum CRP values for cases and controls were 64 ng/ml (interquartile range: 27 to 234 ng/ml) and 55 ng/ml (31 to 183 ng/ml), respectively (P = 0.8).

Conclusions: Serum levels of CRP were not significantly higher among subjects with periodontitis than among controls. However, a statistically significant positive association between percentages of sites with bleeding on probing and log‐transformed CRP values was observed.
Bacterial Colonization of the Implant–Abutment Interface Using an In Vitro Dynamic Loading Model
Authors: Koutouzis Theofilos , Wallet Shannon , Calderon Nadia , Lundgren Tord
Published: November 2010

Background: Previously, we demonstrated that the geometry of the fixture–abutment interface influences the risk of bacterial invasion into the internal part of the implant, although the contribution of loading on this invasion was not evaluated. The aim of the present study is to use an in vitro dynamic‐loading model to assess the potential risk for invasion of oral microorganisms into the fixture–abutment interface microgap of dental implants with different fixture–abutment connection characteristics.

Methods: Twenty‐eight implants were divided into two groups (n = 14 per group) based on their microgap dynamics. Group 1 was comprised of fixtures with internal Morse‐taper connection that connected to standard abutments. Group 2 was comprised of implants with a four‐groove conical internal connection that connected to multibase abutments. The specimens were immersed in a bacterial solution of Escherichia coli and loaded with 500,000 cycles of 15 N in a wear simulator. After disconnection of fixtures and abutments, microbial samples were taken from the threaded portion of the abutment, plated, and cultured under appropriate conditions. The difference between loosening and tightening torque value was also measured.

Results: One of the 14 samples in Group 1 and 12 of the 14 of samples in Group 2 developed multiple colony forming units for E. coli. Implants in Group 1 exhibited an increase in torque value in contrast to implants in Group 2, which exhibited a decrease.

Conclusion: This study indicates that differences in implant design may affect the potential risk for invasion of oral microorganisms into the fixture–abutment interface microgap under dynamic‐loading conditions.
Immediate Dental Implant Placement in HIV‐Positive Patients Receiving Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy: A Report of Two Cases and a Review of the Literature of Implants Placed in HIV‐Positive Individuals
Authors: Kolhatkar Shilpa , Khalid Syed , Rolecki Anne , Bhola Monish , Winkler James R.
Published: November 2010

Background: There are numerous reports of oral surgical procedures in patients undergoing highly active antiretroviral therapy. In the general population, the success of immediate implant placement for replacing teeth is well documented. The number of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐positive patients seeking comprehensive dental care, including implant therapy, continues to increase. Aside from a solitary case report published 12 years ago, there is very limited evidence describing immediate implant placement in the HIV‐positive population. The two cases described herein demonstrate successful immediate implant placement in this population.

Methods: Two white male patients aged 48 and 55 were scheduled to undergo extraction of a mandibular premolar. Both patients were HIV‐positive, receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy, and were closely monitored by their physicians. On the day of the surgical procedure, atraumatic extractions were completed, osteotomies prepared in the ideal orientation, and implants placed. The bone‐to‐implant gap was >1.5 mm in Case 2, which required particulate bone graft placement. Case 1 did not need additional bone grafting. In Case 1, the healing abutment was placed at the time of implant placement, whereas a second‐stage surgical procedure was performed for Case 2.

Results: Patients were seen at 2 and 4 weeks for postoperative assessment. No adverse postoperative sequelae were observed, and both implants integrated and were successfully restored.

Conclusions: Immediate implant placement in HIV‐positive patients is a viable and successful treatment option. To our knowledge, only one other similar report exists. It is hoped that this case report adds to the body of evidence supporting immediate implant placement in the HIV‐positive population.
Primary Gingival Pseudoepitheliomatous Hyperplasia with Periodontal Findings: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Thorat Manojkumar , Pradeep A.R. , Pallavi Borse
Published: November 2010

Background: This paper is the first‐ever report, to our knowledge, of a case of generalized primary gingival pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia(PEH) with significant periodontal findings in a 23‐year‐old Indian female patient. It explains the need to differentiate PEH from squamous cell carcinoma in diagnosis and treatment planning. The present article also reviews current immunohistologic staining methods used to differentiate PEH from squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods: A two‐stage surgical approach was used to eliminate the lesion by gingivectomy and gingivoplasty under local anesthesia. Histopathologic examination of excised tissue was done to differentiate it from squamous cell carcinoma.

Results: After 1‐year follow‐up, there was uneventful gingival healing and no recurrence of the lesion.

Conclusions: Differentiation of PEH from squamous cell carcinoma of the gingiva is important for diagnosis and treatment. It is also important to consider PEH as a rare condition of gingival overgrowth.
Real-time forecasting urban drainage models: full or simplified networks?
Authors: Leitão J. P. , Simões N. E. , Maksimović Č. , Ferreira F. , Prodanović D. , Matos J. S. , Sá Marques A.
Published: November 2010

Lead time between rainfall prediction results and flood prediction results obtained by hydraulic simulations is one of the crucial factors in the implementation of real-time flood forecasting systems. Therefore, hydraulic simulation times must be as short as possible, with sufficient spatial and temporal flood distribution modelling accuracy. One of the ways to reduce the time required to run hydraulic model simulations is increasing computational speed by simplifying the model networks. This simplification can be conducted by removing and changing some secondary elements using network simplification techniques. The emphasis of this paper is to assess how the level of urban drainage network simplification influences the computational time and overall simulation results' accuracy. The models used in this paper comprise a sewer network and an overland flow drainage system in both 1D/1D and 1D/2D approaches. The 1D/1D model is used as the reference model to generate several models with different levels of simplifications. The results presented in this paper suggest that the 1D/2D models are not yet suitable to be used in real-time flood prediction applications due to long simulation time, while on the other hand, the simplified 1D/1D models show that considerable reductions in simulation time can be achieved without compromising simulation results (flow and water depth) accuracy.
Phenol degradation on novel nickel-antimony doped tin dioxide electrode
Authors: Qing-Yun Chen , Dong-Dong Shi , Yuan-Jun Zhang , Yun-Hai Wang
Published: November 2010

Nickel and antimony doped tin dioxide is a novel anodic material for its good performance of electrochemical ozone generation and direct electro-catalytic oxidation. Electro-catalytic oxidation of phenol on this novel nickel-antimony doped tin dioxide electrode is presented here. The morphology and composition of the electrode are characterized. The effects of applied current densities on phenol degradation rate, energy consumption and coulomb efficiency are discussed. In 0.1 M sulfuric acid, after 4 h electrolysis with current density of 25 mA cm−1, 90% phenol is removed. And with current density of 20 mA cm−1, the highest energy efficiency of 6.85 g kWh−1 and the highest coulomb efficiency of 6.87 μg C−1 are obtained. The effect of current densities on TOC removal is also discussed.
Evaluation of DNA extraction methods and dilution treatment for detection and quantification of Acanthamoeba in water and biofilm by real-time PCR
Authors: Chang Ching-Wen , Wu Ying-Chieh
Published: November 2010

Acanthamoeba, human pathogens and natural hosts of pathogenic bacteria, may be accurately detected and quantified by real-time PCR if Acanthamoeba DNA are properly extracted and PCR inhibitors are effectively eliminated. However, the optimization of DNA extraction methods has not been reported for Acanthamoeba. This study compared the effectiveness of two DNA extraction/purification methods (FastDNA® Spin Kit for soil and Wizard® SV genomic DNA Purification System) by using trophozoites and cysts of Acanthamoeba castellanii and water and biofilm samples of cooling towers. DNA of A. castellanii extracted with the FastDNA® Kit and quantified by TaqMan PCR resulted in a lower variation (CV of Ct < 3%), greater linearity (R2=0.99), and higher slopes (1.177–1.187 log fg DNA/log cell number) as compared to that by the Wizard® Kit. For field testing, the number of Acanthamoeba-positive samples and the Acanthamoeba DNA quantity were both greater with the FastDNA® Kit than with the Wizard® Kit (P=0.016 and <0.0001, respectively). Beneficial effects with dilutions of extracted DNA were also revealed with the FastDNA® Kit (P=0.0003). In conclusion, DNA extraction by the FastDNA® Kit coupled with dilution of extracted DNA and PCR analysis are recommended for detecting and quantifying environmental Acanthamoeba.
Removal of heavy metals in an abandoned mine drainage via ozone oxidation: a pilot-scale operation
Authors: Seo S. H. , Sung B. W. , Kim G. J. , Chu K. H. , Um C. Y. , Yun S. L. , Ra Y. H. , Ko K. B.
Published: November 2010

The objective of this study was to evaluate the ozone oxidation of dissolved heavy metals in an abandoned mine drainage (AMD) by conducting a pilot-scale operation at two different ozone doses of 7.5 and 24.0 g O3/h into an ozone reactor. A portion of the abandoned mine drainage near the Jungam Mine in Samchuck, Korea was pumped into this pilot-scale plant and used as an influent for the ozone oxidation. Some possible precipitates of metal oxides and hydroxides that resulted from the pilot-scale ozone oxidation of the dissolved Fe and Mn ions in the AMD (with a hydraulic retention time of 106 seconds in the ozone reactor) were effectively removed via sand filtration. A six-hour ozone oxidation with an ozone dose of 24.0 g O3/h and subsequent sand filtration, before backwashing the sand filter bed, can meet Korean drinking water quality standards (less than 0.3 mg/L) for Fe and Mn in the sand filter effluent under the operating conditions that were used in this study. The SO4−2 concentrations and alkalinities of the influents were not affected by the ozone oxidation. The pH values of the influents were neutral or slightly alkaline, and after the six-hour oxidation, increased very slightly. These experiment results show that the ozone oxidation of dissolved heavy metals and the subsequent sand filtration of metal precipitates are desirable alternatives to removing heavy metals in an abandoned mine drainage.
Characterization and activity of visible-light driven TiO2 photocatalyst doped with tungsten
Authors: Putta T. , Lu M. C. , Anotai J.
Published: November 2010

This research aimed to expand the activity of TiO2 down to the visible light region by modifying the sol-gel conditions and doping with tungsten. The optimum conditions for calcination temperature, acid type, and heating rate were 200°C, HNO3, and 1°C/min, respectively. The undoped TiO2 synthesized under these conditions could significantly absorb the visible light whereas the commercial Degussa P-25 could not. The absorptivity decreased sequentially as the wavelength increased from 400 to 700 nm. Within 6 h of 2-W blue-light illumination, 23% of 0.1 mM 2-chlorophenol was removed. The XRD result showed that the crystalline was anatase phase. The visible-light absorption property of the TiO2 became even better when doped with tungsten. At the optimum W to TiO2 ratio of 0.5%, the degradation of 0.1 mM 2-chlorophenol increased to 53% indicating a higher photocatalytic activity. Both crystalline and amorphous TiO2 could exhibit the photocatalytic activity under the visible light region.
Characterization and use of Moringa oleifera seeds as biosorbent for removing metal ions from aqueous effluents
Authors: Araújo Cleide S. T. , Alves Vanessa N. , Rezende Hélen C. , Almeida Ione L. S. , de Assunção Rosana M. N. , Tarley César R. T. , Segatelli Mariana G. , Coelho Nivia M. Melo
Published: November 2010

Moringa oleifera seeds were investigated as a biosorbent for removing metal ions from aqueous effluents. The morphological characteristics as well as the chemical composition of M. oleifera seeds were evaluated using Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The FT-IR spectra showed the presence of lipids and protein components. Scanning electron micrographs showed that Moringa seeds have an adequate morphological profile for the retention of metal ions. The results suggest that M. oleifera seeds have potential application in Cd(II), Pb(II), Co(II), Cu(II) and Ag(I) decontamination from aqueous effluents.
The application of improved flow diverter for first flush management
Authors: Mrowiec M.
Published: November 2010

The paper presents the investigations on first flush phenomenon based on the total suspended solids (TSS) concentration measurement during selected rainfalls at central part of Czestochowa (Poland) and also the hydrodynamic model of the catchment. The model allows to present the conception of first flush management using an improved flow diverter Septurn. Flow diverters used in the separate sewer systems create a hybrid system called “semi-separate” sewage system, which allows to treat the first flush volume in the waste water treatment plant (WWTP). Proposed construction of the flow diverter makes possible to capture significant part of the pollutant load (TSS) and simultaneously to reduce volume discharges to WWTPs during wet weather.
A comparison of biodegradation kinetic models applied to estrogen removal with nitrifying activated sludge
Authors: Estrada-Arriaga E. B. , Mijaylova N. P.
Published: November 2010

The biological degradation of estrone (E1), estradiol (E2) and ethinylestradiol (EE2) was studied in batch experiments at typical concentration levels using nitrifying activated sludge from a membrane bioreactor (MBR). Since first-order, pseudo first-order and Monod-type kinetics were observed. Pseudo first order kinetic was reformulated using only the soluble concentrations S and assuming adsorption coefficient KD of the estrogens. For the adsorption coefficients KD determination, activated sludge from MBR was spiked with the respective target compounds and stirred. Finally, the water was analyzed. The KD values of estrogens ranged from 0.323 to 0.474 L/g. Greater than 98% of E1, E2 and EE2 were found to be removed in batch reactors. The measured data were linearly regressed giving R2 values ranging from 0.748 to 0.990. According to these results, the biodegradation kinetics were adjusted to pseudo first-order assuming adsorption coefficient KD and Monod-type kinetic. The biodegradation rate constant k of the estrogens were: E1 and E2 > 78.52 L/gVSS d and 12.41 L/gVSS d for EE2. Monod-type kinetic indicates that these compounds are biodegradated by co-metabolism. E2 was oxidized into E1.
Study on performance of ultrafiltration membrane-based pretreatment for application to seawater reverse osmosis desalination
Authors: Tansakul C. , Laborie S. , Cabassud C.
Published: November 2010

The objective of the work was to study at lab-scale the efficiency of hybrid process- coupling powdered activated carbon (PAC) adsorption or FeCl3 coagulation and UF- for marine organic matter removal. Regenerated cellulose membrane with 30 kDa and actual seawater from Mediterranean Sea were used. The coagulant was FeCl3 and adsorbents were two PAC types, with different surface area and pore size distribution. The results showed that PAC adsorption/UF performed higher efficiency in terms of organic removal than FeCl3 coagulation/UF. Organic matter removal up to 50% was obtained for a PAC dose of 200 mg/L. According to high performance size exclusion chromatography (HP-SEC) analysis, the organics removed by PAC/UF are approximately 10 kDa. Therefore, the effect of PAC adsorption was deeply evaluated in terms of UF membrane fouling rate. The fouling rate was reduced when increasing PAC dose for both PAC types, in particular when PAC with a higher BET surface area and larger fraction of micropores was used. On the other hand, the results showed that UF unit could highly reduce SDI3 from 26 to 9. The addition of PAC and FeCl3 to UF allowed a further reduction of SDI3 from 9 to 4–6.
Probabilistic analysis of fluorescence signals for monitoring dual reticulation water recycling schemes
Authors: Hambly A. , Henderson R. K. , Baker A. , Stuetz R. M. , Khan S. J.
Published: November 2010

Improved techniques are required for the detection of inadvertent cross-connections between recycled water and potable water systems in dual reticulation schemes. The aim of this research was to assess the potential for fluorescence spectroscopy to be developed as a tool to distinguish recycled water from potable water. Weekly grab samples of recycled and potable water were obtained over 12 weeks from within an Australian dual reticulation site and analysed for fluorescence excitation-emission matrix (EEM), dissolved organic carbon (DOC), electrical conductivity (EC), and pH. Probabilistic techniques including distribution function fitting and Monte Carlo simulation were used to assess the ability to distinguish between recycled water and potable water sample pairs and the reliability of doing so. Fluorescence EEM spectroscopy was determined to be the most effective for the reliable differentiation by monitoring the protein-like fluorescence at peak T1—an excitation-emission wavelength pair of λex/em=300/350 nm. While EC could distinguish between recycled and potable water, it was shown to be less sensitive and less reliable than peak T1 fluorescence.
Comparison of metal (Zn and Cu) complexation characteristics of DOM in urban runoff, domestic wastewater and secondary effluent
Authors: Tushara Chaminda G. G. , Nakajima Fumiyuki , Furumai Hiroaki , Kasuga Ikuro , Kurisu Futoshi
Published: November 2010

This study was aimed at comparing the Zn and Cu binding parameters with dissolved organic matter (DOM) in road runoff, wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent and influent. Conditional stability constant (K′) and binding site concentration ([L]) are important to predict free or labile metal concentration and toxicity in the water environment. The values of K′ and [L] of three DOMs were determined by metal titration and Scatchard linearization. The Zn and Cu titration data for DOMs in WWTP effluent and influent fitted to a two-ligand model, while DOM in road runoff fitted to a single-ligand model. The order of the values of K′ was WWTP influent > WWTP effluent > road runoff both for Zn and Cu. Total ambient binding site concentration ([LT]) was lower in DOM of road runoff (1.4–1.5 μM) than those in DOM of WWTP effluent (1.6–2.3 μM) and influent (17–18 μM), suggesting lower metal complexation capacity in DOM of road runoff. DOM in WWTP influent was expected to bind to both Zn and Cu more strongly than that of the effluent DOM.
Effect of influent nutrient ratios and temperature on simultaneous phosphorus and nitrogen removal in a step-feed CAST
Authors: Ma Juan , Peng Chengyao , Takigawa Akio , Wang Shuying , Wang Li , Ma Ningping , Liu Yang , Peng Yongzhen
Published: November 2010

A step-feed cyclic activated sludge technology (CAST) with a working volume of 72 L treating real municipal wastewater was operated to examine the effect of varying ratios of influent COD/TN and COD/P on the nutrient removal. With the increased COD/P and COD/TN, the phosphorus and nitrogen removals exhibited an upward trend. The TN removals had a positive linear correlation with the phosphorus removal efficiencies, mainly because the presence of nitrate in the anaerobic zone negatively affected the phosphorus release thus the nitrogen removal process took priority over the phosphorus removal process to utilize the limited carbon source in the influent in step-feed CAST where simultaneous removals of nitrogen and phosphorus were achieved. By employing the effective step-feed strategy with alternating anoxic/oxic operation, efficient phosphorus and nitrogen removals of 95.8 and 89.3% were obtained with lower influent COD/P and COD/TN ratios of 61.9 and 5.2, respectively. It was also found that lower temperature, e.g. 13 ∼ 16°C, did not deteriorate the phosphorus removal, though the nitrogen removal decreased significantly due to incomplete nitrification. As the temperature increased further, TN removal efficiency increased gradually and nitrogen removal via nitrite pathway was successfully achieved with average nitrite accumulation rate above 90% in the system.
Water quality assessment of Malad Creek, Mumbai, India: an impact of sewage and tidal water
Authors: Sardar V. K. , Vijay R. , Sohony R. A.
Published: November 2010

The aim of the study was to carry out water quality assessment and to identify sources responsible for deterioration of quality in the Malad creek, Mumbai, India. Creek receives sewage and wastewater from various drains and partially treated effluent from Malad and Versova treatment facilities. To assess the water quality, sampling locations were identified in the creek based on discharges of wastewater and sewage. Identified locations were traced in physical space by a global positioning system. Samples were collected during low and high tides and analyzed for physical, chemical and bacteriological parameters such as pH, Turbidity, DO, BOD, NH3-N, PO4 and FC and compared with SW-II Standards. Parameters were also analyzed statistically and correlated to determine the relationship amongst the parameters using SPSS software. The idea was to determine the probable causes contributing to the pollution in the creek. Various options were suggested for improvement in the creek quality based on water quality assessment.
Risk analysis of seasonal stream water quality management
Authors: Jha Manoj , Gu Roy
Published: November 2010

Seasonal discharge programs, which take advantage of temporal variation of stream assimilative capacity, are cost effective. However, these seasonal discharge control programs should not increase the risk of water quality violations. A method is presented to estimate the allowable pollutant loads under both seasonal and non-seasonal discharge control programs for a single discharger that maintains the same level of risk of water quality violation. An enhanced in-stream water quality model QUAL2E-UNCAS was applied to a 39-km river reach of the Des Moines River below Des Moines Sewage Treatment Plant (DMSTP) in Iowa. The model was calibrated for dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), and ammonia as nitrogen with standard errors of 10, 17, and 23% by comparing with the observed water quality data. Monte-Carlo simulation technique was then implemented for seasonal and non-seasonal discharge program to assess the water quality violation risk and the allowable pollutant load. The results indicated that the four-seasonal program offers about 136% increase in BOD loading and 61% increase in ammonia loading when compared with the non-seasonal program without any increase in the violation probabilities, whereas the two-seasonal program only offers 13% decrease in BOD loading and 56% increase in ammonia loading. It is found that the multi-discharge program was beneficial for both water quality indicators, and thus provides a way of reducing the overall cost of waste treatment.
Characterising aquifer treatment for pathogens in managed aquifer recharge
Authors: Page D. , Dillon P. , Toze S. , Sidhu J. P. S.
Published: November 2010

In this study the value of subsurface treatment of urban stormwater during Aquifer Storage Transfer Recovery (ASTR) is characterised using quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) methodology. The ASTR project utilizes a multi-barrier treatment train to treat urban stormwater but to date the role of the aquifer has not been quantified. In this study it was estimated that the aquifer barrier provided 1.4, 2.6, >6.0 log10 removals for rotavirus, Cryptosporidium and Campylobacter respectively based on pathogen diffusion chamber results. The aquifer treatment barrier was found to vary in importance vis-à-vis the pre-treatment via a constructed wetland and potential post-treatment options of UV-disinfection and chlorination for the reference pathogens. The risk assessment demonstrated that the human health risk associated with potable reuse of stormwater can be mitigated (disability adjusted life years, DALYs <1 × 10−6) if the aquifer is integrated with suitable post treatment options into a treatment train to attenuate pathogens and protect human health.
Overland flow computations in urban and industrial catchments from direct precipitation data using a two-dimensional shallow water model
Authors: Cea L. , Garrido M. , Puertas J. , Jácome A. , Del Río H. , Suárez J.
Published: November 2010

This paper presents the experimental validation and the application to a real industrial catchment of a two-dimensional depth-averaged shallow water model used for the computation of rainfall-runoff transformation from direct precipitation data. Instead of using the common approach in flood inundation modelling, which consists in computing the water depth and velocity fields given the water discharge, in this study the rainfall intensity is imposed directly in the model, the surface runoff being generated automatically. The model considers infiltration losses simultaneously with flow simulation. Gullies are also included in the model, although the coupling between the surface runoff and the sewer network is not considered. Experimental validation of the model is presented in several simplified laboratory configurations of urban catchments, in which the surface runoff has been measured for different hyetographs. The application to a real industrial catchment includes a sewer network flow component, which is solved with the SWMM model. The numerical predictions of the discharge hydrograph generated by a 12 hours storm event are compared with field measurements, providing encouraging results.
Does Work Contribute to Successful Aging Outcomes in Older Workers?
Authors: Sanders Martha J. , McCready Jack W.
Published: November 2010

Older workers are the fastest growing segment of the labor force, yet little is known about designing jobs for older workers that optimize their experiences relative to aging successfully. This study examined the contribution of workplace job design (opportunities for decision-making, skill variety, coworker support, supervisor support) to dimensions of successful aging (social network, emotional support, personal control, generativity) in a sample of 109 older workers in the retail homebuilding industry. Older workers completed four standardized tests reflecting the job design and successful aging variables. Results indicated that job design contributed to 23% of the variance in generativity and 15.5% of the variance in personal sense of control scores. Skill variety and coworker support were the most important job design variables for successful aging outcomes. The potential for workplaces to become social institutions that contribute to dimensions of successful aging is discussed.
Supervisor-Subordinate Age Dissimilarity and Performance Ratings: The Buffering Effects of Supervisory Relationship and Practice
Authors: Van Der Heijden Beatrice I. J. M. , Scholarios Dora , Van Der Schoot Esther , Jedrzejowicz Piotr , Bozionelos Nikos , Epitropaki Olga , Knauth Peter , Marzec Izabela , Mikkelsen Aslaug , Van Der Heijde Claudia ,   The Indic@tor Study Group
Published: November 2010

Using 394 pairs of employees and their immediate supervisors working in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector in three northern European countries, this study examined the effect of workplace moderators on the link between relational demography and supervisor ratings of performance. Directional age differences between superior and subordinate (i.e., status incongruence caused when the supervisor is older or younger than his/her subordinate) and non-directional age differences were used as predictors of supervisor ratings of occupational expertise. The quality of the supervisor-subordinate relationship and the existence of positive age-related supervisory practices were examined as moderators of this relationship. The results provide no support for a relationship between directional age differences and age-related stereotyping by supervisors in ratings of performance, neither for the effects of age-related supervisory practices. However, high quality supervisor-subordinate relationships did moderate the effects of age dissimilarity on supervisory ratings. The implications of these findings for performance appraisal methodologies and recommendations for further research are discussed.
Antibacterial Activity of Wendlendia tinctoria DC
Authors: Pal Mahesh , Kumar Ashok , Srivastava Manjoosha
Published: November 2010

The antibacterial activity of hexane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol, water extract of W. tinctoria and stigmasterol isolated from ethyl acetate extract were evaluated. Ethyl acetate, water extract and stigmasterol showed significant activity against five species of bacterium in comparison to Streptomycin antibiotic. The results obtained in the present study authenticate and support the use of these plants in folklore medicine for treatment of various infectious diseases caused by the bacterial pathogens. These findings will stimulate the search for novel, natural products as new antibacterial agents that may be useful to pharmaceutical industries.
Voice-In, Voice-Out: Constituent Participation and Nonprofit Advocacy
Authors: Guo Chao , Saxton Gregory D.
Published: November 2010

How do participatory constituent practices affect the scope and intensity of nonprofit advocacy? In this study, we examine this question through survey data from a random sample of charitable nonprofit organizations in Arizona in 2007. Our findings show that the scope and intensity of nonprofit advocacy tend to increase with constituent board membership, communication with constituents, and level of constituent involvement in strategic decision making. However, the scope and intensity of nonprofit advocacy tends to decrease with increased government funding and private contributions. These findings suggest important implications for organizations wishing to be more effective in influencing public policy.
A Journal of Nonprofit Policy
Authors: Young Dennis R
Published: November 2010

A litany of major contemporary policy issues confront nations around the globe, stemming from economic recession; failures of financial systems, longer term environmental, social and economic trends; and political tensions in various world regions. A salient feature of these issues is the prominence of government and business as the principal protagonists in policy deliberations as well as the less visible, more diffuse presence of the third sector as a significant factor in policy change. One reason for the sector's muted role is a dearth of channels through which policy issues and processes involving nonprofit organizations can be rigorously analyzed and discussed. The purpose of Nonprofit Policy Forum is to provide such a channel. Several key areas of public policy compose the broad agenda for this journal. These include defining the boundaries and interfaces of the sector with those of government and business; articulating how the third sector can be held accountable for its performance; analyzing how nonprofits can become more effective in advocating for constructive social change; and assessing how the sector can contribute more effectively to economic well-being, the protection of the global environment, the energy needs of citizens worldwide, the security concerns of citizens in the context of global terrorism and inter-group conflicts, the political development of civil society, the advancement of democratic governance and individual freedom, and the evolution of social justice.