bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Productivity Approach using Improved Quality Data
Authors: Izuorgu N
Published: August 2012

In recent times, the cost of identifying and discovering hydrocarbons has increased geometrically from land to the more challenging deepwater environment. The objective for any investor is to reduce this cost and at the same time increase production and reserves. One of the factors in ensuring this objective is met is making the right decisions, which can be achieved with acquisition of the right information and data. Operators base their decisions on both geologic and engineering information, which involves uncertainty. There is one thing today's E&P operators can be certain about: There will be a large element of uncertainty in their decisions as a result of erroneous, missing, or conflicting data that lead to indecision, delays, rework, cost overruns, and increased risk. An important means of quantifying prospect uncertainty is to create realistic geologic and structural models through 3D modeling, which is influenced by data quality and the amount of data at hand. How can this be done without quality data? Quality, reliable data is a crucial component of these decisions, which have a major impact on the asset team's overall goals. Getting the structural model wrong, of course, will impact reserves calculations, production predictions, well placement, and field development planning.

For E&P companies to succeed in deepwater exploration and development, the quality of the data being used for analysis and decisions needs to improve vividly, and data quality processes need to be part of a lifestyle change. E&P data environments are dynamic and complex, made up of multiple interrelated corporate, regional, project, and domain data sources. Data are extracted, manipulated, and processed by various teams and domain groups, and people find themselves wondering how data quality can be maintained in such a dynamic and complex environment. Often organizations attempting to address data quality problems think that an all-or-nothing approach is the answer. Many have conducted massive efforts that involve stopping work to "clean" the data—only to see the data quality degrade once standard workflows are resumed. This "boom and bust" business approach does not work.

This paper focuses on a different approach, which combines methodology and technology that create value by maintaining high-quality data, thus enabling organizations to have the right quality of data to make the right decisions at the right time, thereby reducing uncertainties.
The Effects of Soil Carbon on Phosphorus and Sediment Loss from Soil Trays by Overland Flow
Authors: McDowell R. W. , Sharpley A. N.
Published: August 2012

Soil chemical constituents influence soil structure and erosion potential. We investigated manure and inorganic fertilizer applications on soil chemistry (carbon [C] quality and exchangeable cations), aggregation, and phosphorus (P) loss in overland flow. Surface samples (0–5 cm) of a Hagerstown (fine, mixed, semiactive, mesic Typic Hapludalf) soil, to which either dairy or poultry manure or triple superphosphate had been applied (0–200 kg P ha−1 yr−1 for 5 yr), were packed in boxes (1 m long, 0.15 m wide, and 0.10 m deep) to field bulk density (1.2 g cm−3). Rainfall was applied (65 mm h−1), overland flow collected, and sediment and P loss determined. All amendments increased Mehlich 3–extractable P (19–177 mg kg−1) and exchangeable Ca (4.2–11.5 cmol kg−1) compared with untreated soil. For all treatments, sediment transport was inversely related to the degree of soil aggregation (determined as ratio of dispersed and undispersed clay; r = 0.51), exchangeable Ca (r = 0.59), and hydrolyzable carbohydrate (r = 0.62). The loss of particulate P and total P in overland flow from soil treated with up to 50 kg P ha−1 dairy manure (9.9 mg particulate phosphorus [PP], 15.1 mg total phosphorus [TP]) was lower than untreated soil (13.3 mg PP, 18.1 mg TP), due to increased aggregation and decreased surface soil slaking attributed to added C in manure. Manure application at low rates (<50 kg P ha−1) imparts physical benefits to surface soil, which decrease P loss potential. However, at greater application rates, P transport is appreciably greater (26.9 mg PP, 29.5 mg TP) than from untreated soil (13.3 mg PP, 18.1 mg TP).
Visualizing Bromide and Iodide Water Tracer in Soil Profiles by Spray Methods
Authors: Lu Jianhang , Wu Laosheng
Published: August 2012

In this study we developed and tested a spray method to visualize bromide water tracer in soil profiles. The method is based on the transformation reaction of a white precipitate into a colored one (Prussian blue) in the presence of Br− After application of water containing bromide (0.2–0.4% wt.), a soil profile is dug out from the irrigated area and sprayed with a Br− indication suspension containing ferric ion and silver ferrocyanide precipitate. About two hours later, the pattern of irrigation water movement in the soil profile appears due to the formation of Prussian blue complex. We describe the method and demonstrate its use in a field experiment to visualize water flow paths. Since this method might be subject to possible interference from Cl−, a newly designed method with iodide ion as a water tracer and its indication solution containing soluble starch and ferric ion is also presented and recommended for use in soils with high chloride background.
Relationship between Water Repellency and Native and Petroleum‐Derived Organic Carbon in Soils
Authors: Roy J. L. , McGill W. B. , Lowen H. A. , Johnson R. L.
Published: August 2012

Some soils develop severe and persistent water repellency following contamination with crude oil. This study was conducted to characterize and compare the spatial distribution of soil water repellency and residual oil contamination at 12 such sites. The molarity of ethanol droplet (MED) test was used to assess soil water repellency and the content of dichloromethane‐extractable organics (DEO) was used to quantify residual oil in soil. We found a relatively strong positive correlation between MED and DEO in soil (r2 = 0.74). Both variables tended to decrease abruptly with depth at 11 of the 12 study sites. Dichloromethane‐extractable organics similarly decreased with depth in control adjacent soil (MED = 0 M), but from an average concentration one to two orders of magnitude lower than in water‐repellent soil. Using data from corresponding control adjacent and water‐repellent soils, we determined that approximately 29 and 10% of measured total organic carbon in water‐repellent A‐ and B‐horizon soil, respectively, consists of dichloromethane‐insoluble organic carbon of petroleum origin. We propose that this fraction contains most of the causative agents of soil water repellency at the studied sites.
Phosphorus in Runoff Assessed by Anion Exchange Resin Extraction and an Algal Assay
Authors: Uusitalo Risto , Ekholm Petri
Published: August 2012

Eutrophication of surface waters can be accelerated by agricultural inputs of phosphorus (P), provided that P is in a form that can be utilized by aquatic algae. We studied anion exchange resin (AER) extraction and a dual culture algal assay (DCAA) for the determination of potentially algal‐available P in water samples without sediment preconcentration. Our material consisted of agricultural and forest runoff and wastewaters. The results obtained by the two methods were essentially equal when the samples contained only small amounts of particulate phosphorus (PP) in relation to dissolved molybdate‐reactive phosphorus (DRP). However, in turbid agricultural runoff, P extracted with AER averaged 72% (n = 17) of the P yield of the 3‐wk DCAA (R2 = 0.94). When the runoff samples were diluted for the AER extraction in the same manner as for the DCAA, the AER‐P yield increased to 85% (n = 5) of DCAA‐P. The minimum detectable value was greater for the AER test (41 μg L−1 AER‐extractable P) than for the DCAA (7 μg L−1 DCAA‐P). At concentrations greater than about 50 μg L−1 AER‐P or DCAA‐P, the accuracy of the methods was satisfactory, with the coefficient of variation in replicated analyses being less than 10% for the AER test and less than 20% for the DCAA. Other anions competing for the exchange sites of the AER decreased P recovery by 15 to 20% when their equivalent concentration exceeded about 4 mmolc L−1, and this effect was relatively constant over a large concentration range. We consider that AER extraction is a suitable low‐cost method to estimate the algal availability of P in runoff samples.
Three Approaches to Define Desired Soil Organic Matter Contents
Authors: Sparling G. , Parfitt R. L. , Hewitt A. E. , Schipper L. A.
Published: August 2012

Soil organic C is often suggested as an indicator of soil quality, but desirable targets are rarely specified. We tested three approaches to define maximum and lowest desirable soil C contents for four New Zealand soil orders. Approach 1 used the New Zealand National Soils Database (NSD). The maximum C content was defined as the median value of long‐term pastures, and the lower quartile defined the lowest desirable soil C content. Approach 2 used the CENTURY model to predict maximum C contents of long‐term pasture. Lowest desirable content was defined by the level that still allowed recovery to 80% of the maximum C content over 25 yr. Approach 3 used an expert panel to define desirable C contents based on production and environmental criteria. Median C contents (0–20 cm) for the Recent, Granular, Melanic, and Allophanic orders were 72, 88, 98, 132 Mg ha−1, and similar to contents predicted by the CENTURY model (78, 93, 102, and 134 Mg ha−1, respectively). Lower quartile values (54, 78, 73, and 103 Mg ha−1, respectively) were similar to the lowest desirable C contents calculated by CENTURY (55, 54, 67, and 104 Mg ha−1, respectively). Expert opinion was that C contents could be depleted below these values with tolerable effects on production but less so for the environment. The CENTURY model is our preferred approach for setting soil organic C targets, but the model needs calibrating for other soils and land uses. The statistical and expert opinion approaches are less defensible in setting lower limits for desirable C contents.
Simazine Runoff from Citrus Orchards Affected by Shallow Mechanical Incorporation
Authors: Liu F. , O'Connell N. V.
Published: August 2012

Simazine (6‐chloro‐N,N′‐diethyl‐1,3,5‐triazine‐2,4‐diamine) losses via runoff in California are a potential source of environmental contamination because simazine is widely used for weed control during the rainy season from November to March. This study was conducted in two citrus orchards from three rainfall events to evaluate the effects of shallow mechanical incorporation on simazine losses in runoff during the winter. Simazine losses in runoff were compared between row middles that were either undisturbed, the normal orchard practice, or subjected to shallow mechanical incorporation. Mechanical incorporation of row middles significantly reduced runoff volumes by approximately 45 and 28% for the first and second runoff events, respectively. In undisturbed plots, simazine concentrations in runoff from the first runoff event ranged from 0.62 to 0.73 mg L−1; then simazine concentrations rapidly decreased (0.03–0.35 mg L−1) from the second and third runoff events. In disturbed plots, simazine concentrations in runoff from the first runoff event ranged from 0.21 to 0.24 mg−1, but simazine concentrations remained relatively constant between the three runoff events. Total mass recoveries of simazine in runoff ranged from 1.93 to 2.97% and from 0.70 to 0.74% of application from the undisturbed plots and from the disturbed plots, respectively. Low water infiltration rate inhibited surface‐applied herbicide incorporation into the soil matrix with natural rainfall in compacted soils. Mechanical incorporation of row middles significantly reduced runoff volumes, simazine concentrations, and mass losses in runoff after application.
A Biotest for Evaluating Copper Bioavailability to Plants in a Contaminated Soil
Authors: Chaignon V. , Hinsinger P.
Published: August 2012

This work aimed at defining the optimal conditions for a novel ecotoxicological test designed for evaluating the bioavailability and phytotoxicity of metals to plants. This biotest, which provided easy access to roots, shoots, and rhizosphere soil, was applied to a vineyard calcareous soil that had been contaminated by the application of Cu fungicides. A preliminary hydroponic experiment comparing various levels of solution Cu concentration enabled us to determine the no observable adverse effects concentration (NOAEC), which was in the range 5 to 20 μM total Cu (0.01–0.06 μM free Cu ion) for rape (Brassica napus L. cv. Goeland). For the biotest, rape was grown in hydroponic conditions for 21 d in pots designed so that plants developed a planar mat of roots at the surface of a polyamide mesh. By then, the plants were transferred for 4 or 8 d onto a 1‐ or 3‐mm‐thick soil layer that was separated from the root mat by the mesh and connected to a reservoir of nutrient solution or deionized water via a filter paper wick. An 8‐d period was the best option as it enabled plant growth to be significant. The use of 1‐mm soil thickness was recommended if the biotest aimed at investigating root‐induced changes in the rhizosphere. Although it may cause some artifacts, compared with deionized water, nutrient solution provided better standardized conditions for comparing widely differing soil samples. The studied soil did not induce any Cu phytotoxicity in spite of its fairly large total Cu content.
Nitrate Exported in Drainage Waters of Two Sprinkler‐Irrigated Watersheds
Authors: Cavero J. , Beltrán A. , Aragüés R.
Published: August 2012

Nitrate contamination of surface waters has been linked to irrigated agriculture across the world. We determined the NO3–N loads in the drainage waters of two sprinkler‐irrigated watersheds located in the Ebro River basin (Spain) and their relationship to irrigation and N management. Crop water requirements, irrigation, N fertilization, and the volume and NO3–N concentration of drainage waters were measured or estimated during two‐year (Watershed A; 494 irrigated ha) and one‐year (Watershed B; 470 irrigated ha) study periods. Maize (Zea mays L.) and alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) were grown in 40 to 60% and 15 to 33% of the irrigated areas, respectively. The seasonal irrigation performance index (IPI) ranged from 92 to 100%, indicating high‐quality management of irrigation. However, the IPI varied among fields and overirrigation occurred in 17 to 44% of the area. Soil and maize stalk nitrate contents measured at harvest indicated that N fertilizer rates could be decreased. Drainage flows were 68 mm yr−1 in Watershed A and 194 mm yr−1 in Watershed B. Drainage NO3–N concentrations were independent of drainage flows and similar in the irrigated and nonirrigated periods (average: 23–29 mg L−1). Drainage flows determined the exported mass of NO3–N, which varied from 18 (Watershed A) to 49 (Watershed B) kg ha−1 yr−1, representing 8 (Watershed A) and 22% (Watershed B) of the applied fertilizer plus manure N. High‐quality irrigation management coupled to the split application of N through the sprinkler systems allowed a reasonable compromise between profitability and reduced N pollution in irrigation return flows.
Significance of Anion Exchange in Pentachlorophenol Sorption by Variable‐Charge Soils
Authors: Hyun Seunghun , Lee Linda S. , Rao P. Suresh C.
Published: August 2012

Sorption data and subsequent predictive models for evaluating acidic pesticide behavior on variable‐charge soils are needed to improve pesticide management and environmental stewardship. Previous work demonstrated that sorption of pentachlorophenol (PCP), a model organic acid, was adequately modeled by accounting for pH‐ and pKa–dependent chemical speciation and using two organic carbon–normalized sorption coefficients; one each for the neutral and anionic species. Such models do not account for organic anion interaction to positively charged surface sites, which can be significant for variable‐charge minerals present in weathered soils typical of tropical and subtropical regions. The role of anion exchange in sorption of ionizable chemicals by variable‐charge soils was assessed by measuring sorption of PCP by several variable‐charge soils from aqueous solutions of CaCl2, CaSO4, Ca(H2PO4)2 as a function of pH. Differences in sorption from phosphate and chloride electrolyte solutions were attributed to pentachlorophenolate interactions with anion exchange sites. Suppression of PCP sorption by phosphate ranged from negligible in a soil with essentially no positively charge sites, as measured by negligible anion exchange capacity, to as much as 69% for variable‐charge soils. Pentachlorophenolate exchange correlated well with the ratio of pH‐dependent anion exchange capacity to net surface charge. Sorption reversibility of PCP by both CaCl2 and Ca(H2PO4)2 solutions was also demonstrated. Results for PCP clearly demonstrate that sorption to anion exchange sites in variable‐charge soils should be considered in assessing pesticide mobility and that phosphate fertilizer application may increase the mobility of acidic pesticides.
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Mountain Soils of the Subtropical Atlantic
Authors: Ribes A. , Grimalt J. O. , García C. J. Torres , Cuevas E.
Published: August 2012

Surface soil samples from various altitudes on Tenerife Island, ranging from sea level up to 3400 m above mean sea level, were analyzed to study the distribution of 26 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in a remote subtropical area. The stable atmospheric conditions in this island define three vertically stratified layers: marine boundary, trade‐wind inversion, and free troposphere. Total PAH concentrations, 1.9 to 6000 μg/kg dry wt., were high when compared with those in tropical areas and in a similar range to those in temperate areas. In the marine boundary layer, fluoranthene (Fla), pyrene (Pyr), benz[a]anthracene (BaA), and chrysene (C + T) were largely dominant. The predominance of Fla over Pyr may reflect photo‐oxidative processes during atmospheric transport, although coal combustion inputs cannot be excluded. The PAHs found in higher concentration in the soils from the inversion layer were benzo[b + j]fluoranthene (BbjF) + benzo[k]fluoranthene (BkF) > benzo[e]pyrene (BeP) ≈ indeno[1,2,3‐cd]pyrene (Ind) > benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) ≅ benzo[ghi]perylene (Bghi) > coronene (Cor) ≅ dibenz[a,h]anthracene (Dib), reflecting that high temperatures and insolation prevent the accumulation of PAHs more volatile than BbjF in significant amounts. These climatic conditions involve a process of standardization that prevents the identification of specific PAH sources such as traffic, forest fires, or industrial inputs. Only soils with high total organic carbon (TOC) (e.g., 10–30%) preserve the more volatile compounds such as phenanthrene (Phe), methylphenanthrenes (MPhe), dimethylphenanthrenes (DMPhe), and retene (Ret). However, no relation between PAHs and soil TOC and black carbon (BC) was found. The specific PAH distributions of the free tropospheric region suggest a direct input from pyrolytic processes related to the volcanic emission of gases in Teide.
An Assessment of Japanese Beetle Defoliation on Aphid‐Resistant and Aphid‐Susceptible Soybean Lines
Authors: Chandrasena Desmi , DiFonzo Christina , Wang Dechun
Published: August 2012

As public institutions and seed companies incorporate soybean aphid (Aphis glycines Matsumura) resistance genes into soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivars, it is important to retain resistance to defoliators. This study compared Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica Newman) defoliation among rag1b and rag3 aphid‐resistant lines (E06901, E06905, and E06906) with a Rag1 aphid‐resistant line (LD05‐16060) and aphid‐susceptible lines (DKB27‐53, SD01‐76R, and Titan RR). Under natural insect pressure, the percentage of leaflets consumed by Japanese beetle was greater on rag1b and rag3 lines (50–86%) than LD05‐16060 (11%) and SD01‐76R (5%). Defoliation on the three most damaged trifoliates was higher on rag1b and rag3 lines (49–54%) and its aphid‐susceptible parent Titan RR (35%) than on LD05‐16060 (5%) and its aphid‐susceptible parent, SD01‐76R (1%). Similarly in laboratory choice and no‐choice tests, greater leaf area was removed from rag1b and rag3 lines. There was more feeding on LD06‐16060 under no‐choice conditions than under choice conditions, suggesting LD05‐16060 was more attractive to Japanese beetle in the absence of a preferred line. At present, the differential susceptibility among these lines cannot be attributed to a specific compound or compounds until sufficient genetic and biochemical studies are conducted. This study shows the importance of monitoring Japanese beetle defoliation in breeding programs to determine the severity of threat posed by this insect on new lines.
Variation Within Accessions of Switchgrass Germplasm for Dry Matter Yield and Forage Quality in a Semiarid Environment
Authors: Robins Joseph G.
Published: August 2012

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is valued for conservation, forage, and biofuel in many areas of North America and worldwide. The extent of switchgrass productivity has not been characterized under semiarid conditions. A study was designed to characterize the variation within a set of 114 switchgrass germplasm accessions and six switchgrass cultivars for dry matter yield, crude protein, in vitro true digestibility, and neutral detergent fiber under limited irrigation conditions at a Millville, UT, field site from 2008 to 2010. Variation among the accessions for each of these traits was greater than zero within individual harvests and across the four harvests. Accession × harvest variation was also greater than zero for each trait. A set of 11 switchgrass accessions, including the cultivar ‘Cave‐in‐Rock’, were identified that had consistently high phenotypic values for each of the traits at the several harvests. The highest dry matter yield values at any harvest (∼4 Mg ha−1) were low compared to other regions of the United States. However, the identified genetic variation for dry matter yield and forage quality was sufficient to improve germplasm for these traits either for use in semiarid regions or to increase the drought tolerance of germplasm used in wetter regions.
An OxiTop® protocol for screening plant material for its biochemical methane potential (BMP)
Authors: Pabón Pereira C. P. , Castañares G. , van Lier J. B.
Published: August 2012

A protocol was developed for determining the biochemical methane potential (BMP) of plant material using the OxiTop® system. NaOH pellets for CO2 absorption and different pretreatment methods were tested for their influence in the BMP test. The use of NaOH pellets in the headspace of the bottle negatively affected the stability of the test increasing the pH and inhibiting methanization. Sample comminution increased the biodegradability of plant samples. Our results clearly indicate the importance of test conditions during the assessment of anaerobic biodegradability of plant material, considering BMP differences as high as 44% were found. Guidelines and recommendations are given for screening plant material suitable for anaerobic digestion using the OxiTop® system.
Biofouling control by quorum sensing inhibition and its dependence on membrane surface
Authors: Kim Mijin , Lee Sangyoup , Park Hee-deung , Choi Suing-il , Hong Seungkwan
Published: August 2012

Biofouling control by quorum sensing (QS) inhibition and the influence of membrane surface characteristics on biofilm formation and QS inhibition were investigated. Pseudomonas putida isolated from the bio-fouled reverse osmosis (RO) membranes in a real plant was used. Acylase was chosen as a model QS inhibitor. Bacteria on the membrane coupons were quantified with the heterotrophic plate count method. Cell distribution was imaged by a confocal laser scanning microscope. Results showed that biofilm formation on the membrane was reduced by acylase as it inhibits the activity of N-acylhomoserine lactone (AHL) which is a signal molecule of QS. It was also shown that membrane surface characteristics were influential factors affecting bacterial adhesion, biofilm formation, and QS inhibition.
Identifiability analysis in conceptual sewer modelling
Authors: Kleidorfer M. , Leonhardt G. , Rauch W.
Published: August 2012

For a sufficient calibration of an environmental model not only parameter sensitivity but also parameter identifiability is an important issue. In identifiability analysis it is possible to analyse whether changes in one parameter can be compensated by appropriate changes of the other ones within a given uncertainty range. Parameter identifiability is conditional to the information content of the calibration data and consequently conditional to a certain measurement layout (i.e. types of measurements, number and location of measurement sites, temporal resolution of measurements etc.). Hence the influence of number and location of measurement sites on the number of identifiable parameters can be investigated. In the present study identifiability analysis is applied to a conceptual model of a combined sewer system aiming to predict the combined sewer overflow emissions. Different measurement layouts are tested and it can be shown that only 13 of the most sensitive catchment areas (represented by the model parameter ‘effective impervious area’) can be identified when overflow measurements of the 20 highest overflows and the runoff to the waste water treatment plant are used for calibration. The main advantage of this method is very low computational costs as the number of required model runs equals the total number of model parameters. Hence, this method is a valuable tool when analysing large models with a long runtime and many parameters.
A software-based sensor for combined sewer overflows
Authors: Leonhardt G. , Fach S. , Engelhard C. , Kinzel H. , Rauch W.
Published: August 2012

A new methodology for online estimation of excess flow from combined sewer overflow (CSO) structures based on simulation models is presented. If sufficient flow and water level data from the sewer system is available, no rainfall data are needed to run the model. An inverse rainfall-runoff model was developed to simulate net rainfall based on flow and water level data. Excess flow at all CSO structures in a catchment can then be simulated with a rainfall-runoff model. The method is applied to a case study and results show that the inverse rainfall-runoff model can be used instead of missing rain gauges. Online operation is ensured by software providing an interface to the SCADA-system of the operator and controlling the model. A water quality model could be included to simulate also pollutant concentrations in the excess flow.
Modeling mineral phase change chemistry of groundwater in a rural-urban fringe
Authors: Singh S. K. , Srivastava Prashant K. , Gupta M. , Mukherjee S.
Published: August 2012

This research paper aims to determine the genetic origin of the chemical elements in groundwater. It deals with the results of physicochemical parameters, to evaluate the hydro-geochemistry of groundwater in rural-urban fringe of district Bareilly, India. Pre- and post-monsoon sampling has been carried out, which reveals inter-seasonal variability effect on the hydro-geochemical processes. Geochemical modeling especially computation of saturation index was undertaken using the WATEQ4F model. Majority of samples fall in the category of undersaturation, which further suggests that groundwater still has potential to dissolve more minerals. Chemical categorizations of groundwater samples were performed with the help of the Aquachem model. Grouping of groundwater on the Piper diagram reveals a common composition and origin. In most of the area, water facies is of Ca2+−HCO3− type in both the seasons. It also indicates that in pre-monsoon, ion exchange is the dominant process, whereas in post-monsoon, both ion exchanges as well as reverse ion exchanges are reported in the groundwater of the study area.
Nutrients budget and effluents characteristics in polyculture of scampi (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) and Indian major carps ponds using organic inputs
Authors: Adhikari Subhendu , Sahu Bharat Chandra , Dey Lambodar
Published: August 2012

Experiments were conducted for the study of nutrient budget in farmers' ponds (0.4–0.6 ha) in Orissa, India, at stocking densities of 0.30–0.38/m2 for scampi (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) and 0.60–0.70/m2 for Indian major carps (Catla catla, Labeo rohita and Cirrhinus mrigala). The average initial body weights of scampi and the major carps were 0.02 and 8–10 g, respectively. The culture period was 272–292 days. Feed was the main input. The FCR (feed conversion ratio) varied from 1.78 to 1.83. Feed and cow dung were applied to these ponds as organic inputs. At harvest time, the average weight of scampi and carps varied from 73 to 92 g and from 718 to 820 g, respectively. Among all the inputs, feed alone accounted for 97.60% total nitrogen (N), 97.90% total phosphorus (P) and 94.72% total organic carbon (OC), respectively. The harvest of scampi and carps accounted for recovery of 52.45% N, 19.43% P and 18.12% OC, respectively. N, P and OC accumulated in sediment were 38.31, 71.40 and 69.50%, respectively. The median nutrient loads in the fish pond effluents were equivalent to 0.58 kg of inorganic N, 0.135 kg of P and 8.83 kg of total OC per ton of Indian major carps and scampi production.
Modelling sodium inhibition on the anaerobic digestion process
Authors: Hierholtzer A. , Akunna J. C.
Published: August 2012

Sodium is a known process inhibitor in anaerobic systems and impacts on methanogens through an increase of osmotic pressure or complete dehydration of microorganisms. In this study, a combination of experimental and modelling approaches has been employed to determine and simulate sodium inhibition on the anaerobic digestion process. The ADM1, which has been successfully used in modelling anaerobic processes, has been modified to include an extra inhibition function that considers the effect of sodium on acetoclastic methanogens and the impact on biogas production and composition. A non-competitive inhibition function was added to the rate of acetate uptake for the model to take into account sodium toxicity. Experimental studies consisted of both batch and reactor tests to obtain parameters for model calibration and validation. The calibrated model was used to predict the effect of ammonia nitrogen on sodium toxicity. It was found that relatively low sodium levels can bring about significant levels of process inhibition in the presence of high levels of ammonia. On the other hand, where the concentration of ammonia is relatively low, the tolerance threshold for sodium ions increases. Hence, care must be taken in the use of sodium hydroxide for pH adjustment during anaerobic digestion of protein-rich substrates.
Impact of roof surface runoff on urban water quality
Authors: Egodawatta P. , Miguntanna N. S. , Goonetilleke A.
Published: August 2012

The pollutant impacts of urban stormwater runoff on receiving waters are well documented in research literature. However, it is road surfaces that are commonly identified as the significant pollutant source. This paper presents the outcomes of an extensive program of research into the role of roof surfaces in urban water quality with particular focus on solids, nutrients and organic carbon. The outcomes confirmed that roof surfaces play an important role in influencing the pollutant characteristics of urban stormwater runoff. Pollutant build-up and wash-off characteristics for roads and roof surfaces were found to be appreciably different. The pollutant wash-off characteristics exhibited by roof surfaces show that it influences the first flush phenomenon more significantly than road surfaces. In most urban catchments, as roof surfaces constitute a higher fraction of impervious area compared with road surfaces, it is important that the pollutant generation role of roof surfaces is specifically taken into consideration in stormwater quality mitigation strategies.
Development and validation of a UPLC-MS/MS method for studying the degradation kinetics of ofloxacin and trimethoprim during the application of solar Fenton process in secondary treated sewage
Authors: Michael I. , Hapeshi E. , Michael C. , Fatta-Kassinos D.
Published: August 2012

In this work, a sensitive and highly selective method was developed and validated to study the degradation of two antibiotic compounds (ofloxacin (OFX) and trimethoprim (TMP)), spiked in secondary treated domestic effluents, by the solar Fenton process. Three different chromatographic columns were tested on a ultra performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometric (UPLC-MS/MS) instrument working in the electrospray ionization (ESI) mode with twelve combinations of eluting solvents. Samples were enriched prior to the analysis by solid phase extraction using the hydrophilic–lipophilic balanced (HLB) reversed phase polymeric sorbent. The method was optimized and showed very good performance characteristics and was successfully applied to study the degradation kinetics of the selected antibiotics during the solar Fenton process applied. The degradation was found to follow a pseudo first-order kinetics for both compounds at initial concentration of 100 μg L−1 with k = 0.0345 min−1 for OFX and k = 0.0768 min−1 for TMP, whereas the complete removal was achieved after 120 min of treatment for both compounds.
Abu Dhabi's strategic tunnel enhancement programme: odour extraction system approaches
Authors: Cowden Scott , Witherspoon Jay , Orakzai Shahzad , Krause T.
Published: August 2012

The Emirate of Abu Dhabi has experienced tremendous growth since the mid-1970s resulting in significant overloading of its existing sewerage system. Master planning determined that the best long-term wastewater collection and conveyance solution was construction of a deep tunnel sewer system. Implementation of this massive project faced numerous challenges, including the goal of no odours and limited odour control facilities. To accomplish this, the consultant team examined a unique approach of a single odour control system installed at the proposed downstream tunnel pumping station. Rigorous analysis utilising computer-based models confirmed the viability of this approach. However, other approaches including multiple satellite (localised or regional) odour extraction systems were considered. To better understand entrained air forces at vortex drops, and to confirm the preferred odour extraction approach, physical modelling of drop structures and overall tunnel system was implemented. Results and findings concluded that a regional odour extraction system approach was preferred over a single (centralised) extraction approach. This paper focuses on the process of selecting the preferred odour extraction approach and preliminary capacity sizing of regional systems.
Comparison of two peak-to-mean approaches for use in odour dispersion models
Authors: Piringer Martin , Schauberger Günther , Petz Erwin , Knauder Werner
Published: August 2012

In this paper, two approaches to estimate odour concentrations in dispersion models are compared. The approaches differ in the estimation of the momentary (peak) odour concentration for the time interval of a single human breath (approximately 5 s). The Austrian Odour Dispersion Model (AODM) is a Gaussian model with peak-to-mean factors depending on wind speed and atmospheric stability. The German Lagrange code AUSTAL2000 uses a constant factor 4 in all meteorological conditions to derive the maximum odour concentration over a short integration time. As the Lagrange model, in contrast to the Gauss model, can be applied also in complex topography and with isolated buildings, the implementation of the Austrian peak-to-mean approach in AUSTAL2000 would enable for more realistic separation distances in these environments. In a current scientific project, this implementation will be carried out, and a comparison of separation distances with AODM and AUSTAL2000 will be undertaken.
Computer-Assisted Navigation in High Tibial Osteotomy: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Picardo Natasha E , Khan Wasim , Johnstone David
Published: August 2012

High tibial osteotomy (HTO) is a procedure which aims to change the mechanical axis of the lower limb, transferring the body weight across healthy articular cartilage. Several studies have shown that accurate correction is the leading predictor for success.

In this article, we systematically review the computer-assisted techniques that have been used in attempts to increase the accuracy of the surgery and improve postoperative outcomes. The results of the cadaveric and clinical studies to date are presented and the benefits and pitfalls of navigation are discussed.
Distal Femoral Varus Osteotomy for Lateral Compartment Osteoarthritis in the Valgus Knee. A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Saithna Adnan , Kundra Rik , Modi Chetan S , Getgood Alan , Spalding Tim
Published: August 2012

The primary objectives of this systematic review were to define the indications, functional outcomes, survivorship and complications associated with distal femoral varus osteotomy (DFVO).

Cumulative survival with arthroplasty as the endpoint ranged from 64 to 82% at 10 years, and 45% at 15 years. The mean pre-operative HSS score ranged from 46 to 65 and this improved at latest follow up to means of between 72 and 88. Pooled results show an overall complication rate of 5.8% (5/86) for unanticipated re-operation due to a complication.

Poor reporting of included studies and considerable heterogeneity between them precluded any statistical analysis. Further study is required to determine the precise indications for DFVO, optimum surgical technique, implant of choice and post-operative rehabilitation regimen as all of these factors may significantly affect the complication profile and outcomes of this procedure.

DFVO is technically demanding and requires a significant period of rehabilitation for the patient. However, long-term survivorship and good function have been demonstrated and it remains a potential option for valgus osteoarthritis in carefully selected patients.
The Operative Management of Patella Malalignment
Authors: Iliadis Alexios Dimitrios , Jaiswal Parag Kumar , Khan Wasim , Johnstone David
Published: August 2012

Management of patellofemoral joint pathology is challenging as a result of the unique and complex organization of static forces and dynamic factors contributing to its functional capacity. Anterior knee pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint seen daily in the practices of primary care physicians, rheumatologists, and orthopedic surgeons. The key to successful treatment lies not only in the correct diagnosis of a chondral defect, but more importantly, in the accurate identification of associated pathomechanical factors. Appreciating the pathoanatomic basis of the disease and addressing imbalances and anatomical abnormalities should guide treatment.

Despite the complexity of the interplay of various components it is essential to attempt to describe patellar malalignement as a clinical entity in order to proceed with appropriate surgical management and successful outcomes. The goals of patellofemoral re- alignment surgery should be to create both a stable environment for optimal extensor mechanism performance and an appropriate load transmission for optimal cartilage wear and joint loading. In the context of this article we will review the operative management of patellofemoral malalignment; the indications for surgery, the different techniques available and the evidence regarding their effectiveness.

A large number of procedures have been employed and they have all undergone various modifications over the course of the years. The majority of publications are retrospective series in poorly defined population groups. There are significant methodological inconsistencies and as a result there is lack of strong evidence base for the majority of these procedures.
Patellofemoral Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Tarassoli Payam , Punwar Shahid , Khan Wasim , Johnstone David
Published: August 2012

Identification and management of patients with isolated patellofemoral osteoarthritis are challenging. Many of these patients present at a young age and it is important to distinguish degenerative change in the patellofemoral articulation from the other various causes of anterior knee pain. Once the diagnosis of isolated patellofemoral arthrosis has been made non-operative and conservative surgical techniques should be exhausted fully before prosthetic arthroplasty is considered. This review focuses on the use of arthroplasty for isolated patellofemoral arthrosis, in particular comparing the use of total knee against selective patellofemoral joint replacements.
Urinary PSA in monitoring of patients with prostate cancer
Authors: Pejcic Tomislav , Dimitrijevic V. , Hadzi-Djokic Jovan
Published: August 2012

Objective: To estimate the value of urinary prostate specific antigen (uPSA)
determination in the monitoring of prostate cancer (PCa) patients. Material
and methods: From January 2001 to December 2011, uPSA was determined in 397
patients. There were 265 patients with benign prostate, 19 with prostatitis
and 113 with prostate cancer. Radical retropubic prostatectomy (RRP) was
performed at 65 patients, while 48 patients had PCa received antiandrogen
therapy. Results: Average uPSA value in the patients with benign prostate
hyperplasia (BPH) was 190.8+184.2 ng/mL. Average uPSA in the patients with
PCa was 287.5+303.4 ng/ml and it was not significantly different from BPH
group. The average uPSA in the prostatitis group was 113.1+148.5 ng/mL, and
16.4+36.7 ng/mL in the post RRP group. During antiandrogen therapy, uPSA and
PSA correlated significantly (r=0.49). Conclusion: The uPSA level reflects
the response of normal prostatic and urethral secretory cells on total
androgen activity. The uPSA level cannot distinguish the cases with BPH and
cases with PCa. In addition, in the patients after RRP, uPSA reflects local
urethral PSA production and has no role in the diagnosis of PCa recurrence.
However, uPSA is better indicator of androgen suppression than testosterone
(T), as it reflects the effect of suppression of all androgens, not only T.
Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Initial experience with different multichannel ports
Authors: Raznatovic Zoran , Zaric Nemanja , Djurasic Ljubomir , Lekic Nebojsa , Djordjevic Vladimir , Radojkovic Zeljko , Veselinovic Milan , Duka Slobodan , Kerkez Mirko
Published: August 2012

Single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a relatively new minimally
invasive surgical technique in treatment of benign gallbladder diseases. It
is considered a bridge technique between conventional laparoscopic
cholecystectomy (LC) and NOTES. We are presenting our initial experiences in
SILC (single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy). Seventeen patients
underwent SILC (11 women and 6 men) with an average age of 43 years. Mean BMI
score was 29,4 kg/m2. The mean operative time was 93,5 minutes. There were
conversions to conventional LC in two cases (11,6%). Average pain score
measured on visual-analogue scale (VAS) 8h after the operation was 2,00. All
patients expressed satisfaction with achieved cosmetic effect. We conclude
that SILC is safe and feasible procedure, with excellent cosmetic effect, but
further prospective studies are required before SILC can be generally
accepted.
Radical retropubic prostatectomy: Experience of two urological departments
Authors: Petrovic Milan , Stamenkovic Vladimir , Djurasic Ljubomir , Andrejevic Vladan , Basic Dragoslav , Hadzi-Djokic Jovan
Published: August 2012

We have analyzed oncological and functional results of the patients who
underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy for treatment of localized
prostate cancer. Material and methods: In the period of 4 years, from 2007.
to 2011. on two analyzed urological departments there have been 32 patients
who underwent surgical treatment for treatment of localized prostate
carcinoma. All of the patients underwent radical retropubic prostatectomy.
Patient age was in range from 57 to 70 years of age, with average value of 63
years of age. Gleason score values were: GS 8 - 2 patients, GS 7 - 6
patients, GS 6 - 10 patients, GS 5 - 9 patients, GS 3 - 4 patients GS 10 - 1
patient. Duration of the surgery was in the range of 55 to 95 minutes with
the average blood loss between 220 and 640 ml. Fifty percent of the patients
did not required blood transfusion. Results: After radical retropubic
prostatectomy all patients are continent. Average urinary catheter removal
time was 12 days after surgery. Postoperative surgical wound healing was
prolonged for 4 patients. One patient had stenosis of urethrovesical
anastomosis with was resolved with urethral dilatation. Control PSA values
for 29 patients tree months after surgery was under 0, 2 ng/ml. Three
patients were diagnosed with local tumor recurrence who underwent
radiotherapy and latter on with hormonal therapy protocol. All patients are
alive. Conclusion: Results of surgical treatment of localized prostate
carcinoma have shown that the radical retropubic prostatectomy is the safe
method for treatment of the localized prostate cancer, with good oncological
response and small amount of postoperative complications.
Surgical management of stab injuries of the heart
Authors: Odalovic Bozidar , Arandjelovic Slobodan , Gvozdenovic Miomir , Stolic Radojica , Mladenovic Jovan , Dakovic Branislav , Belic Branislav , Sekulic Stojan
Published: August 2012

Introduction. Cardiac injuries today are not rare and they present a
significant group of pathological cardiac diseases, with a large number of
the injured (60-90 %) dying before being transported to the hospital. Case
report. A patient with a stab wound of the right chamber, upper abdomen and
pelvis, in a state of hemorrhagic shock, was successfully managed after being
reanimated. Conclusion. Good health service organization in the field and
urgent transport of the injured should be obligatory in the management of
heart trauma.
Implementing an eXAT-based distributed monitoring system prototype
Authors: Peregud Gleb , Zubek Julian , Ganzha Maria , Paprzycki Marcin
Published: August 2012

Monitoring resource utilization in distributed systems remains of importance.
This is especially the case in LAN-based distributed systems (and, in
particular, in global Grid systems), where individual nodes can be (may need
to be) added to and/or removed from the system at ?random? moments. The aim
of this paper is to report initial results of the project that aims at using
Erlang-based software agents as a robust and flexible resource monitoring
infrastructure. The implemented prototype is capable not only of collecting
performance data, but can also detect certain network problems. Furthermore,
an assessment of the eXAT agent platform, based on experiences gathered
during prototype implementation, is included.