bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex-specific effect of body weight gain on systemic inflammation in subjects with COPD: results from the SAPALDIA cohort study 2
Authors: Bridevaux P-O. , Gerbase M. W. , Schindler C. , Felber Dietrich D. , Curjuric I. , Dratva J. , Ackermann-Liebrich U. , Probst-Hensch N. M. , Gaspoz J-M. , Rochat T.
Published: February 2009

Systemic inflammation may mediate the association between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and extrapulmonary comorbidities. We measured high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) in COPD and quantified the effect modification by body weight change and sex.

Using data from the Swiss study on Air Pollution and Lung Diseases in Adults (SAPALDIA; n = 5,479) with measurements of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), body weight and hs-CRP, we examined the association of hs-CRP and categories of body weight change (lost weight and weight gained 0–5%, 5–9%, 9–14% and >14%) with fast FEV1decline.

hs-CRP was elevated both in association with fast FEV1decline and body weight gain. Subjects with fast FEV1decline and weight gain (>14%) had higher hs-CRP (2.0 mg·L−1for femalesversus1.6 mg·L−1for males). After adjustment for age, smoking, physical activity, hormonal therapy and diabetes, elevated hs-CRP (>3 mg) was found to be more likely in subjects with fast FEV1decline (ORmales1.38, ORfemales1.42) and in those with weight gain >14% (ORmales2.04, ORfemales4.51).

The association of weight gain and fast FEV1decline predicts a higher level of systemic inflammation. Since the effect of weight gain on systemic inflammation is larger in females than in males, weight gain may be a risk factor for extrapulmonary comorbidities in females with COPD.
Diaphragm pacing restores olfaction in tetraplegia
Authors: Adler D. , Gonzalez-Bermejo J. , Duguet A. , Demoule A. , Le Pimpec-Barthes F. , Hurbault A. , Morélot-Panzini C. , Similowski T.
Published: February 2009

High cervical spinal cord injuries induce extreme handicap and tactile isolation. Tracheotomised tetraplegic patients are also bound to be olfaction deprived. By restoring negative pressure inspiration, diaphragm pacing (DP) should improve olfaction.

We tested olfaction in 10 consecutive tetraplegics during positive pressure mechanical ventilation and DP, using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT). Quality of life was assessed using the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS). Self-perceived benefits of DP were studied using an in-house questionnaire.

Olfaction was very poor during positive pressure mechanical ventilation (UPSIT, mean±sd17.1±6.4, anosmia or severe microsmia). It improved during DP (35.2±1.9, normosmia or mild microsmia; p<0.0001) and SWLS was 18.5±4.2. Nine patients stated that DP had improved their quality of life. This was driven by better mobility (ranked first), improved self-image and relationships with others (ranked second), improved olfaction and better feeling of security (both ranked third).

Improved olfaction is among the benefits of DP and should be mentioned to patients considered for this therapy. Furthermore, attention to olfaction is warranted in tracheotomised ventilator-dependent patients, as a putative path towards improvement of quality of life.
T-SPOT.TBresponses during treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Ribeiro Samantha , Dooley Kelly , Hackman Judith , Loredo Carla , Efron Anne , Chaisson Richard E , Conde Marcus B , Boechat Neio , Dorman Susan E
Published: February 2009

Background

Immune responses to Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens could serve as surrogate markers of treatment response.

Methods

Using the T-SPOT.TB assay and frozen peripheral blood mononuclear cells, we enumerated ESAT-6- and CFP-10-specific IFN-γ-producing T cells over time in pulmonary TB patients receiving directly observed treatment. T cell responses (measured as "spot forming cells" or "SFCs") were assessed prior to treatment and at 16 and 24 weeks of treatment.

Results

58 patients were evaluated, of whom 57 were HIV seronegative. Mean (SD) ESAT-6, CFP-10, and summed RD1 specific SFCs declined from 42.7 (72.7), 41.2 (66.4), and 83.8 (105.7) at baseline to 23.3 (39.4, p = 0.01), 23.2 (29.4, p = 0.18), and 46.5 (59.5, p = 0.02) at completion of 24 weeks of treatment, respectively. Only 10% of individuals with a baseline reactive test reverted to negative at treatment week 24. For the group that was culture positive at completion of 8 weeks of treatment compared to the culture negative group, the incidence rate ratio (IRR) of ESAT-6, CFP-10, and summed RD1 specific SFC counts were, respectively, 2.23 (p = 0.048), 1.51 (p = 0.20), and 1.83 (p = 0.047). Patients with cavitary disease had mean ESAT-6 specific SFC counts that were higher than those without cavitary disease (IRR 2.08, p = 0.034).

Conclusion

IFN-γ-producing RD1-specific T cells, as measured in the T-SPOT.TB assay, may be directly related to bacterial load in patients undergoing treatment for pulmonary TB. However, high inter-subject variability in quantitative results coupled with failure of reversion to negative of qualitative results in most subjects at treatment completion may limit the utility of this assay as a surrogate marker for treatment efficacy.
Methylation of homeobox genes is a frequent and early epigenetic event in breast cancer
Authors: Tommasi Stella , Karm Deborah L , Wu Xiwei , Yen Yun , Pfeifer Gerd P
Published: February 2009

Introduction

Aberrant methylation of CpG islands is a hallmark of cancer and occurs at an early stage in breast tumorigenesis. However, its impact on tumor development is not fully determined, and its potential as a diagnostic biomarker remains to be validated. Methylation profiling of invasive breast carcinoma has been largely explored. Conversely, very little and sparse information is available on early-stage breast cancer. To gain insight into the epigenetic switches that may promote and/or contribute to the initial neoplastic events during breast carcinogenesis, we have analyzed the DNA methylation profile of ductal carcinoma in situ, a premalignant breast lesion with a great potential to progress toward invasive carcinoma.

Methods

We have utilized a comprehensive and sensitive array-based DNA mapping technique, the methylated-CpG island recovery assay, to profile the DNA methylation pattern in ductal carcinoma in situ. Differential methylation of CpG islands was compared genome-wide in tumor DNA versus normal DNA utilizing a statistical linear model in the LIMMA software package.

Results

Using this approach, we have identified 108 significant CpG islands that undergo aberrant DNA methylation in ductal carcinoma in situ and stage I breast tumors, with methylation frequencies greater than or comparable with those of more advanced invasive carcinoma (50% to 93%). A substantial fraction of these hypermethylated CpG islands (32% of the annotated CpG islands) is associated with several homeobox genes, such as the TLX1, HOXB13, and HNF1B genes. Fifty-three percent of the genes hypermethylated in early-stage breast cancer overlap with known Polycomb targets and include homeobox genes and other developmental transcription factors.

Conclusions

We have identified a series of new potential methylation biomarkers that may help elucidate the underlying mechanisms of breast tumorigenesis. More specifically, our results are suggestive of a critical role of homeobox gene methylation in the insurgence and/or progression of breast cancer.
The burden of sepsis-associated mortality in the United States from 1999 to 2005: an analysis of multiple-cause-of-death data
Authors: Melamed Alexander , Sorvillo Frank J
Published: February 2009

Introduction

Sepsis is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. The National Center for Health Statistics' multiple-cause-of-death (MCOD) dataset is a large, publicly available, population-based source of information on disease burden in the United States. We have analysed MCOD data from 1999 to 2005 to investigate trends, assess disparities and provide population-based estimates of sepsis-associated mortality during this period.

Methods

Sepsis-associated deaths occurring in the United States from 1999 to 2005 were identified in MCOD data using International Classification of Disease, 10th Revision (ICD-10) codes. Population-based mortality rates were calculated using bridged-race population estimates from the National Center for Health Statistics. Comparisons across age, sex and racial/ethnic groups were achieved by calculating mortality rate ratios.

Results

From 1999 to 2005 there were 16,948,482 deaths in the United States. Of these, 1,017,616 were associated with sepsis (6.0% of all deaths). The age-adjusted rate of sepsis-associated mortality was 50.37 deaths per 100,000 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 50.28 to 50.47). There were significant disparities in sepsis-associated mortality in race/ethnicity and sex groups (P < 0.0001). After controlling for age, Asians were less likely than whites to experience sepsis-related death (rate ratio (RR) = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.77 to 0.78), while Blacks (RR = 2.24, 95% CI = 2.23 to 2.24), American Indians/Alaska Natives (RR = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.24 to 1.25) and Hispanics (RR = 1.14, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.14) were more likely than whites to experience sepsis-related death. Men were at increased risk for sepsis-associated death in all race/ethnicity categories (RR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.27 to 1.28), but the degree of increased susceptibility associated with being male differed among racial/ethnic groups (P < 0.0001). Although crude sepsis-associated mortality increased by 0.67% per year during the study period (P < 0.0001), the age-adjusted mortality rate decreased by 0.18% per year (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The rapid rise in sepsis mortality seen in previous decades has slowed, but population ageing continues to drive the growth of sepsis-associated mortality in the United States. Disparities in sepsis-associated mortality mirror those previously reported for sepsis incidence. Sepsis in Asians, Hispanics and American Indian/Alaska Natives should be studied separately because aggregate measures may obscure important differences among these groups.
A CBT-based approach to medically unexplained symptoms
Authors: Kent Catriona , McMillan Graham
Published: February 2009

This article discusses a cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) approach to the treatment of medically unexplained symptoms that is based on the ‘five areas’ model of CBT. We describe a typical course of therapy and some of the common problems encountered during treatment. Emphasis is placed on the practical management of these conditions, and the focus is on symptoms as opposed to cause. We believe that this approach is widely applicable and could be used in a large range of settings to tackle these debilitating conditions. In writing this article we intended to provide an overview of patients with medically unexplained symptoms. The article would be of interest to staff within liaison psychiatry departments looking to set up a medically unexplained symptoms service and general psychiatry teams who may have contact with patients presenting with somatic symptoms. Psychiatric teams without access to a liaison department may also find this article interesting.
Trust and the therapeutic bond: the special case of psychiatry
Authors: Sheather Julian
Published: February 2009

This article asks whether it is ever acceptable for a psychiatrist to form an intimate relationship with a former patient. It explores the tensions that arise between the freedom of autonomous adults, the need to protect vulnerable individuals, and the public interest in maintaining trust in the doctor–patient relationship. It argues that although a complete ban on all sexual relationships between doctors and former patients would be excessively restrictive, a special case can be made for relationships with former psychiatric patients. The particular vulnerability of psychiatric patients, and the resulting need to ensure the highest standards of trust in the profession, strengthen the case for a complete ban.
Older people with enduring mental illness: a needs assessment tool
Authors: Abdul-Hamid Walid K. , Lewis-Cole Kelly , Holloway Frank , Silverman Marisa
Published: February 2009

Aims and Method

There is a lack of tools to assess the needs of older people with enduring mental illness who have ‘graduated’ from adult mental health services and little is known about this population. the Elderly Psychiatric Needs Schedule (EPNS) was developed and applied to older people with enduring mental illness in contact with the old age and general adult components of an inner-city mental health service.

Results

The EPNS proved reliable (mean agreement 96%, mean Kappa κ=0.90). the mean number of needs identified was 7.6, of which 4.3 were unmet and 3.3 were met.

Clinical Implications

The EPNS provided a reliable method of needs assessment in this population. the authors offer the EPNS as a tool to assess service needs of older adults with functional psychiatric disorders having ‘graduated’ from adult mental health services.
Unilateral and bilateral electroconvulsive therapy: what informs Scottish psychiatrists' choices?
Authors: Brown Kevin A.
Published: February 2009

Aims and Method

A postal questionnaire was sent to Scottish consultant psychiatrists asking about their attitudes towards unilateral and bilateral electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and the difference in effectiveness between the two ECT types that they considered clinically significant.

Results

The response rate was 61%. of those that responded, 62% were prescribers of ECT and most (79%) favoured bilateral ECT over unilateral ECT. the outcome that they were most concerned with was remission rate: 97% believe that an absolute difference of more than 5% in remission rate would make the difference in effectiveness between the two types of ECT clinically important.

Clinical Implications

Future investigators should focus on comparative remission rates of bilateral and unilateral ECT.
Dangerousness in firesetters: a survey of psychiatrists' views
Authors: Sugarman Philip , Dickens Geoff
Published: February 2009

Aims and Method

The assessment of the future dangerousness of firesetters is problematical but psychiatrists may be requested to perform assessment of arsonists for the courts. We surveyed the views of psychiatrists and others (n=54) on how 11 candidate historical variables might contribute to future dangerousness.

Results

Hierarchical cluster analysis indicated that variables fell into three groups related to level of perceived dangerousness. Apparent intention to endanger life and setting fire to an occupied building were the items thought by psychiatrists to most indicate highest future dangerousness. Having previously set fires that caused extensive damage, failure to extinguish previous fires or alert the authorities were perceived as indicating moderate future dangerousness.

Clinical Implications

The study adds to what is known about how psychiatrists formulate assessments of future dangerousness.
Medical treatment under Part IV of the Mental Health Act 1983 and the Human Rights Act 1998: review of Article 3 and 8 case law
Authors: Curtice Martin J. R.
Published: February 2009

Since the introduction of the Human Rights Act 1998, all courts and tribunals are obliged to interpret all laws and statute consistently and compatibly with the Human Rights Act. This includes the Mental Health Act 1983 (and the 2007 amendments) and mental health review tribunals. Mental health case law has evolved with regard to medical treatment under Part IV (Consent to Treatment) of the Mental Health Act being compliant with the Human Rights Act. Review and analysis of such case law can aide everyday clinical decision-making as well as improving knowledge of the Human Rights Act.
Release of endo-lysosomal cathepsins B, D, and L from IEC6 cells in a cell culture model mimicking intestinal manipulation
Authors: Mayer Kristina , Vreemann Anna , Qu Hong , Brix Klaudia
Published: March 2009

IEC6 cells were used as an in vitro model system to study the effects of cell damage caused by mechanical manipulation of intestine epithelial cells. We constructed an apparatus that allowed analyzing the consequences of mechanical compression in a standardized and reproducible manner. Manipulation of IEC6 cells induced necrosis rather than apoptosis, and resulted in release of HMGB1, which is known to function as a trigger of inflammatory responses in vivo. Mechanical damage by traumatic injury of the intestine is accompanied by altered protease activities in the extracellular space, but only little is known about the possible contribution of endo-lysosomal cathepsins. Therefore, we tested the supernatants of manipulated cells in our in vitro model system for proteolytic activity and determined release rates by fluorimetric assays. Endo-lysosomal proteases, such as cathepsins B, D, and L, were released from damaged cells within the first 3 h after manipulation. While cathepsin L re-associated with the surfaces of neighboring cells, cathepsins B and D were present in the extracellular space as soluble enzymes. We conclude that our apparatus for mechanical manipulation can be used to approach surgical trauma, thereby focusing on epithelial cells of the intestine mucosa.
Case Study: Bioassessment of Glovers Creed, West Union, Iowa, Using the USEPA's Rapid Bioassessment Protocol II
Authors: Vigna JR , Johnson JK , Kross BC
Published: March 2009

The Glovers Creek Watershed Protection Project aims to establish extensive agricultural conservation and management practices to protect the soil and water resources by limiting the amount of sediment, nutrients, and pesticides that enter the stream. In order to assess the effectiveness of these best management practices, biological, physical, and chemical components of water quality were examined using the Rapid Bioassessment Protocols For Use in Streams and Rivers as a template (Plafkin et al., 1989). The goal of this investigation is to examine the family-level macroinvertebrate RBP II and assess the biological condition of Glovers Creek in the early stages of the watershed protection project.

Bioassessment results indicate that Glovers Creek is moderately impaired relative to the chosen reference site. A paired-watershed approach is also examined. The shortcomings of RBP II are evaluated and suggestions are made to increase protocol applicability to this region.
Screening-Level Versus Refined Modeling Approaches to Estimating PCB Concentrations in Aquatic Food Webs: A Case Study of Lake Ontario
Authors: Scott PK , Trowbridge KR
Published: March 2009

The comparison of a screening-level and a refined food web bioaccumulation model in predicting tissue residues of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the salmonid food web of Lake Ontario with measured levels is performed. A screening-level model provided health protective (i.e., conservative) estimates of bioaccumulation for invertebrate and fish species in the Lake Ontario salmonid food web with limited organism and ecosystem specific data. The refined model provided health protective estimates of PCB bioaccumulation for invertebrate and prey fish species. The modeled estimate of PCB bioaccumulation in the highest trophic level species (the salmonids) using the refined model was less conservative and underestimated the measured value. Both approaches provided estimates of PCB bioaccumulation within an order of magnitude and often within 50% of the tissue residue measured in Lake Ontario species. The screening-level model provides excellent bioaccumulation estimates with limited data quality and quantity. The refined model requires a more complete data set for use, however, provides more information regarding key factors in the bioaccumulation process for a particular food web.
Ecotoxicology of Predator — Prey Communities: An Individual — Based Modeling Approach
Authors: Jaworska JS , Hallam TG , Henson SM , McKinney WR , Lassiter RR
Published: March 2009

Physiologically structured population models are used to study the effects of nonpolar narcotic chemicals on two predator-prey community models. The biological focus is on the individual, which allows a discussion of exposure and effects, two necessary attributes of ecological risk assessment. Exposure is represented here by an exchange model between the environment and the organism with two possible routes — food and environment. Quantitative structure activity relationships (QSARs) are used to assess both lethality and chronic effects such as reduction in growth. Densities of lipid, carbohydrate and structure, variables used to describe an individual, are compiled to describe population dynamics. Variation among individuals is entirely responsible for the response of the population to toxic stress. Direct and indirect effects of stress on the community level of organization are observed for two model predator-prey systems: rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) — Daphnia and Tetrahymena pyriformis — Escherichia coli. The direct effects include changes in the lipid, structure, age and size distributions of individuals in the populations. An example of an indirect effect is starvation of predators caused by death of prey in particular size classes.
Use of Vascular Aquatic Plants in Phytotoxicity Studies with Sediments
Authors: Weber DE , Walsh GE , MacGregor MA
Published: March 2009

Sediments and rooted aquatic plants are major components of wetland systems. Sediments in these systems act as sinks and reservoirs for organic and inorganic pollutants that are adsorbed to sediment particles or contained in interstitial water that exists between the particle spaces of sediments. Sediments may release toxic materials to aquatic environments through processes that include resuspension, desorption, and bioturbation. In sediment systems, aquatic plants are affected by toxic materials through direct effects on root growth or rhizosphere microorganisms, or by the assimilation and translocation of chemical substances to aerial organs, where they may injure foliage or inhibit growth and seed production. Procedures are being developed to identify the effects of contaminated sediments on aquatic plants through use of laboratory toxicity tests involving natural and artificial sediments, and a group of rooted aquatic species. In these studies, two freshwater species, Echinochloa crusqalli and Sesbania macrocarpa, and a saltmarsh species, Spartina alterniflora, are being evaluated. Artificial substrates proved useful in assessing the effects of contaminants on plant growth and development, and provided techniques for evaluating the role of sediment components on plant response.
In-Situ Bioassays Using Transplanted Mussels: I. Estimating Chemical Exposure and Bioeffects with Bioaccumulation and Growth
Authors: Salazar MH , Salazar SM
Published: March 2009

Using transplanted mussels as an in-situ bioassay to assess marine environmental quality has provided important information on bioavailability of contaminants and associated bioeffects that would not have been available with traditional chemical monitoring, biomonitoring, or laboratory bioassays. It is one of the most promising field bioassay systems because of the relative ease in making synoptic measurements of bioaccumulation and growth to estimate chemical exposure and bioeffects, respectively. In-situ field studies that utilize transplanted animals combine the advantages of environmental realism associated with field monitoring and experimental control associated with laboratory testing. Because they are sedentary and concentrate contaminants, resident mussels have been used extensively to estimate exposure by measuring contaminants in their tissues. The use of resident mussels as a response indicator has been very limited because of the difficulties associated with measuring biological processes and defining the exposure period in natural populations. Transplanting caged mussels facilitates measurements of bioeffects and clearly defines the exposure period. Data from a series of mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis) transplants in San Diego Bay, California, demonstrate how this methodology can be used to assess the extent of contamination and associated biological effects. Although more than 18 sites were studied in nine separate transplants between 1987 and 1990, emphasis-will be placed on two sites in the Shelter Island Yacht Basin separated by only 3 meters vertical distance. The mussel field bioassay was used to identify the following: (1) site-specific differences, (2) temporal and spatial variability, (3) short-term and long-term trends, (4) potential sources of contamination, and (5) dose-response relationships.
Methods to Improve the Sensitivity of an Automated Biomonitoring System
Authors: Gruber D , Frago C
Published: March 2009

The biomonitoring system was designed to assess changes in toxicity of wastewater or surface water on a real-time basis using fish as the sensors. Previous research indicated that there were other responses in addition to the breathing rate which might be equally or more sensitive to changes in toxicity. These included fish activity (turns and episodes) and changes in the shape of the waveform generated as the fish breathes. To investigate the usefulness of these responses, four methods were used: strip-chart recordings, split-screen video techniques, Fast Fourier Transformation techniques, and a data replay software program. As a result of this research, the software of the biomonitoring system has been modified to include the additional responses which showed promise to increase the sensitivity of the system. Field testing of the system will be the next step.
Development of an Electrodyn Spray System for Sawmill Operation
Authors: Groves CK , Smith RS , Johnson EL
Published: March 2009

Unseasoned export lumber sawn in British Columbia currently is treated with aqueous anti-sapstain formulations, applied by relatively inefficient hydraulic spray systems. As an alternative spray system ICI's Electrodyn (ED) applying PP523, an organic solvent-based formulation containing 5% hexaconazole as the active ingredient, had been previously tested at Forintek in field trials. Recent development work showed that a bipolar apparatus using twelve ED nozzles could uniformly treat lumber to the required retention levels at transfer efficiency as high as 60%. To prove the commercial potential of the improved ED system, the PP523 formulation was applied at two levels of treatment on a large quantity of lumber for a shipping trial. Earlier field trials indicated that a retention of 25-30 μg hexaconazole/cm2 was required for acceptable protection. Included in the current test was a set of untreated control lumber and a set treated with the aqueous formulation NP-1 applied by a conventional hydraulic spray system; one of the two active ingredients of NP-1 is didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC), and treatment was done to the recommended level of 90μg DDAC/cm2. One lot of lumber was shipped to Tampa, Florida, for storage and another kept in Vancouver, British Columbia; both lots were inspected four and one-half months after treatment and rated for the extent of fungal degradation.

All untreated lumber, both in Tampa and in Vancouver, was degraded by staining fungi and moulds so that only 32% and 48%, respectively, was rated as acceptable. In all sets treated with PP523, applied to 20μg and 30μg hexaconazole/cm2, lumber was protected to better than 90% acceptability. Although the lumber treated with NP-1 was rated at 96% acceptability in the Vancouver-stored lumber, the Tampa-stored lumber was rated at only 82% acceptability. The 90% acceptability figure, determined by a rating system in use for a number of years at Forintek, has become an international norm. This successful shipping trial of an ED system applying PP523 to lumber propelled at sawmill production line speeds, and subjected to rigorous export storage conditions, indicates the ED system should next be developed for a sawmill installation.
Advances in Application Efficacy for Chemigation Systems with Experimental Nozzle Technology
Authors: Bynum ED , Archer TL , Lyle WM , Bordovsky JP , Mustian J
Published: March 2009

Injecting chemicals through center pivot irrigation systems is a practice commonly used by producers to apply fertilizer, herbicides, and insecticides. A chemical blank spiked with a fluorescent pigment was applied with several chemigation methods in 1991 and 1992 to compare spray pattern and deposition in corn. Fluorescent pigment on corn leaf surfaces were increased significantly and better distributed when injecting chemical through an, in-canopy, low volume Texas Agricultural Experiment Station (TAES) experimental nozzle (7015.5 L/ha) than with higher volume (28,062 L/ha) in-canopy and above canopy commercial nozzles. Corn leaves in the TAES experimental nozzle treatment had 1.7 times more pigment in 1991 and from 1.6 to 2.1 times more pigment in 1992 than leaves from all commercial nozzle treatments. The amount of fluorescent pigment recovered from corn plants were similar for each commercial nozzle each year. The Senninger 360° OH nozzle, positioned above the corn plant, had less fluorescent pigment on the bottom and middle leaf locations than on the top leaf location.
The U.S. EPA's Development of Pesticide Container Regulations
Authors: Fitz NE
Published: March 2009

The 1988 amendments to the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) require EPA to conduct a study of pesticide containers, report the study results to Congress and promulgate container design and residue removal regulations. The study results were released in May 1992 in a document titled Pesticide Containers: A Report to Congress. This document classified pesticide containers into two major categories: nonrefillable and refillable. Currently, EPA is developing regulations on pesticide containers and containment. The standards for nonrefillable containers that are under consideration are intended to minimize worker exposure to pesticides during the handling of containers, ensure that containers can be emptied and rinsed effectively and facilitate the safe disposal of the containers. The draft refillable container requirements are intended to facilitate the use of strong and durable containers and minimize the potential for cross-contamination. The containment requirements under development are intended to prevent pesticide contamination of soil and water at certain bulk pesticide storage facilities and at retail locations where agricultural pesticides are repackaged into refillable containers.
Nonionic Surfactant Properties and Plant Species Affect Surfactant Enhancement of Primisulfuron Phytotoxicity
Authors: Manthey FA , Czajka M , Nalewaja JD
Published: March 2009

Research was conducted to determine the relationship between surfactant properties and plant species (common lambsquarters, green foxtail, kochia, redroot pigweed, and sunflower) on primisulfuron phytotoxicity. Primisulfuron phytotoxicity was enhanced by all surfactants. Only surfactant HLB consistently related to enhancement of Beacon phytotoxicity. Optimum HLB values varied from 11.5 to 17.9 depending on plant species and surfactant chemistry. Surfactants having similar HLB values but different chemistry differed in their enhancement of Beacon phytotoxicity to various species. Surfactant enhancement of Beacon varied with plant species, even when surfactants had similar HLB values. The data indicate that plant species, surfactant chemistry, and surfactant HLB influence surfactant enhancement of Beacon phytotoxicity.
A Comparative Cost Analysis: Conventional Treatment Technologies and Bioremediation
Authors: Davis KL , Smith HR , Day SM
Published: March 2009

The refinement of an effective institutional framework for regulating the cleanup of hazardous wastes is greatly enhanced through the collection of reliable information on cleanup costs. This information is critical in order develop environmental policy that is sensitive to the economic tradeoffs between environmental restoration and the allocation of funds to social programs and future economic growth. Unfortunately, a dearth of cost data is evident for biologically-based waste treatment methodologies, which recently have gained widespread acceptance as effective means of remediating wastes under appropriate environmental conditions. Costs of remediating petroleum underground storage tank sites in Tennessee were studied in order to compare resources allocated to the cleanup of sites which used soil bioremediation versus other “conventional” types of soil remediation. An analysis of various site characteristics was undertaken in order to gain an understanding of cost variations between biological and non-biological cleanup methodologies.
“Assessing Ex/In-Situ Full Scale Soil Bioremediation Processes Through Laboratory Experiments: 2 Case Studies”
Authors: Galvez-Cloutier R , Yong RN , Hadjinicolaou J
Published: March 2009

Bioremediation is considered an innovative technology, essentially because current knowledge concerning the fundamental mechanisms of biodegradation does not allow for a large and safe application of biotechnology. Pre-assay and ongoing monitoring of biotechnology in the laboratory can provide the basic scientific and technical information which assist to improve the efficiency in the field.

Two soil bioremediation projects were implemented with parallel assistance of laboratory simulations: (1) The Soil Recycling Demonstration Plant at the Toronto Harbour and (2) The soil decontamination of a Montreal refinery site. The clean-up of the first site is complete while the second is still in progress.

Both sites are highly contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons (20–30% Oil and Grease) and heavy metals (e.g. >600 ppm of Pb). The remediation techniques included combined physico/chemical and bioremediation processes in order to tackle both types of contamination. Biostimulation was simulated in large bench-scale reactors in both bio-slurry and solid state form depending on the requirements of the project.

The bioremedmtion controlling parameters which have been assessed in these studies include: a) screening of reagents, b) optimization of nutrients and oxygen dosages (concentrations, mixing gradients, contact time), c) effects of hydrocarbon/soil ratios, d) biodegradation pathways and persistence of products, e) microbe family strains and the effects of redox and pH on population growth.

The results showed that valuable scientific and practical information can be obtained from laboratory experiments performed on actual contaminated soils. The major practical advantage being the greater flexibility they provide at lower expense.
Bioremediation of Oil Tar-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Hyzy JB , Schepart BS
Published: March 2009

Oil tar is a heterogeneous mixture of petroleum compounds, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These are a significant health concern because many are suspected and known carcinogens. An oil gasification facility in Pt. Stanley, Ontario, Canada, deposited residual oil tars into two onsite lagoons. Using landfarm bioaugmentation technology, Waste Stream Technology was commissioned to remediate 40,000 m3 of contaminated soil and accompanying groundwater. Bioremediation was performed in a 150 M × 60 M biopad, confined with an impermeable clay liner and berm. Soil was excavated and stockpiled in a contained pretreatment area, then loaded into the biopad as 4,000-5,000 M3 “lifts.” WST Bioblend M-5 was used for soil remediation by daily culturing in six 1,300 L bioreactors, followed by soil inoculation and rototilling. Soil was treated daily to achieve a viable microbial concentration of approximately 109 colony forming units per gram of soil. Groundwater and rainwater run off was treated in six 10,000 liter fixed film bioreactors supplemented with CAP™. Treated water was discharged onto the stockpiled, pretreatment soil. Analytical data showed that the water PAH content was reduced from >900 ppb initially, to below detectable limits. Solid phase bioremediation resulted in the reduction of soil PAHs, from an average initial concentration of 1,000 ppm total PAH (TPAH) and 100 ppm Benzo(a)Pyrene, to <100 ppm TPAH and <10 ppm Benzo(a)Pyrene.
Anaerobic Bioremediation of Munitions-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Daniel BP , Korus RA , Crawford DL
Published: March 2009

The soil at many military sites in the United States is contaminated with 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and other munitions chemicals. Anaerobic biodegradation is one possible method of soil remediation. This paper reports the results of investigations about the effects of a number of parameters on anaerobic biodegradation of TNT. The method used had been previously applied to the herbicide 2-sec-butyl-4,6-dinitrophenol (dinoseb), which is also a nitroaromatic compound, and to a TNT-contaminated soil. It was based on the use of an aerobic bacterial consortium to consume dissolved oxygen and to force anaerobic conditions, and a methanogenic bacterial consortium previously acclimated to TNT to enhance degradation. It was determined that the initial steps of biodegradation of TNT in this soil were not affected by the presence of either of the consortia, and that TNT degradation was slightly faster at pH 7.0 than at pH 6.0. It was also determined that agitation during incubation increased the degradation rate of one of the intermediates of the degradation.
The Regulatory Approach to Fastener Integrity in the Nuclear Industry
Authors: Davis JA , Johnson RE
Published: March 2009

Fasteners used in operating nuclear power plants are subjected to specific design rules. The regulatory basis for these rules is contained in Part 50 of Title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (10 CFR Part 50). The Code specifies that safety-related components in an operating nuclear power plant be designed in accordance with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. Section III of the Code sets design rules for tensile loads, bending loads, fatigue stresses, and stress-corrosion-cracking load limits for fasteners larger than 1 in. (2.54 cm) in diameter. The ASME Code also permits design of fasteners by analysis using generally accepted methods such as finite element analysis in place of the ASME Code recommended methods. Section XI of the ASME Code describes inspection requirements for fasteners. Typical inspection methods covered by this code are visual inspection, magnetic particle inspection, liquid penetrant inspection and ultrasonic inspection.

There has been a great deal of interest in safety-related fasteners in nuclear power plants because of the many fasteners that failed in the 1970s and early 1980s. In the early 1980s, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) established Generic Safety Issue 29, “Bolting Degradation or Failure in Nuclear Power Plants.” The industry responded to this generic safety issue by forming a Joint Task Group on Bolting that included the Atomic Industrial Forum, the Materials Properties Council, and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). Generic Safety Issue 29 was resolved in October 1991 as a result of the work of the Joint Task Group on Bolting and numerous NRC actions.

Typical examples of fastener degradation will be discussed in this paper along with the regulatory response that was taken to minimize the probability of reoccurrence.
Behavior of Fatigue Cracks in a Tension Bolt
Authors: Liu AF
Published: March 2009

A state-of-the-art review of the characteristics of crack growth in a tension bolt has been conducted. Considerations are centered on evaluating the usefulness of the existing stress intensity factors in making fatigue crack growth predictions. The closed-form stress intensity expression of Forman and Shivakumar (for an unnotched round bar) has been validated by making correlations with three sets of experimental data available in the literature. while the James-Mills equation (for a threaded round bar) matches the finite element solutions, the results of the analytical/experimental correlations indicate that an empirical equation, i.e., Eq 9, which was derived from this study, may be used to obtain acceptable life predications.
Development of Fracture Control Methodology for Threaded Fasteners in the Space Program
Authors: Henkener JA , Shamala AR , Carper PL , Forman RG , Salkowski CL
Published: March 2009

High-strength threaded fasteners are used in many critical applications in aer- ospace hardware. This paper outlines a fracture control methodology that can be applied to prevent their structural failure due to the presence and/or propagation of crack-like defects. In cases where the failure of a single fastener would result in a catastrophic failure, fracture control is usually implemented either by nondestructive inspection followed by a fracture me- chanics analysis of life or by a proof test approach. Special nondestructive techniques are usually required for flaw detection at thread roots. This paper discusses the procedures necessary for determining probability of detection values for threaded fasteners, including methods of fabricating threaded fatigue crack specimens and the statistical methods used to reduce reliability data.
The Effect of a Tensile Load on the Ultimate Shear Capacity of a Fastener Shank
Authors: Olson SM
Published: March 2009

When a fastener is simultaneously subjected to a tensile and transverse shear load, it is unclear from the literature whether the tensile load results in a reduced allowable ultimate shear load and, if so, by how much. The relationship was investigated experimentally using test samples of 6Al-4V titanium and 17-4PH stainless steel. The specimens were loaded in tension and then pulled to failure in three-point shear. The tensile load was varied from 0% of the material's ultimate strength (pure shear failure) to 100% (pure tensile failure). In preliminary tests, the tensile load would drop as the specimen was tested due to lengthening of the specimen as a result of the shearing process. This would seem to indicate that in most practical applications, the tensile load will be greatly reduced as the fastener deforms in shear. The final test fixture kept a nearly constant tensile load on the specimens as they were sheared. Analysis of the resulting data revealed that a squared stress ratio interaction curve providedsatisfactory estimates of the ultimate shear strength of a fastener shank subjected to a constant tensile load.
Pitch Diameter Measurement of Threaded Gages Using a Coordinate Measuring Machine
Authors: Veale R , Erber E , Borchardt B
Published: March 2009

The reference datum for a screw thread is the pitch diameter cylinder. Although a defined method within the United States for pitch diameter measurement exists, it does not follow worldwide procedures, and the complexity and uncertainties associated with this measurement often go unappreciated. Some of the problems associated with using a coordinate measuring machine (CMM) for measurements on both external and internal threads will be iscussed.
The Semantic Valence of Terms: A Systematic Treatment of Multi-Meaning Terms
Authors: Gilreath CT
Published: March 2009

The ubiquity of multi-meaning terms presents a great challenge for terminologists and for communicators in general. To manage and reduce this semantic multiplicity, we need a set of concepts and terms useful in describing its various states. Toward this end, a uniform term series is proposed. It is based on the Latin root vale (value, worth). In this series, vale denotes meaning, sense, or semantic value, as does equivalence. Other notable terms in the series are univalence, bivalence, trivalence, and nonvalence. The underlying concept system is a taxonomy of states called valence patterns. These are differentiated mainly by their valence number, which is a term's number of meanings in a given absolute or relative context. Over 50 terms are formally defined, and concepts such as polysemy, homonymy, and equivocalness are construed in valence terms. Although the focus is mainly on the valence of terms, the series is shown to be applicable also to abbreviations, ordinals, and symbols.
Distinguishing Between Terms and Meanings of Terms
Authors: Buchan RL
Published: March 2009

Term ambiguity primarily as the result of interdisciplinary borrowing has created problems for the unambiguous retrieval of information from textbases using terms as search tools. The addition of qualifiers to terms facilitates more precise information retrieval, but human editing to install such qualifiers in texts is time-consuming. The paper explores means for analyzing and automating the inclusion of qualifiers in order to improve retrieval. Examples from the NASA SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION database serve to illustrate options for automating the identification of terms having specific conceptual meanings. The article addresses issues of Boolean searches, the use of controlled vocabulary, and frequency ranking, as well as the difference between ‘words’ in general language and ‘terms’ in technical and special languages, underscoring the value of disambiguated terms as a tool for information retrieval.
A Semantic Analysis of Russian Terms and Descriptors for Civilian Nuclear Power Plant Fluid System Valves
Authors: Launer MK
Published: March 2009

Russian uses five different terms to name civilian nuclear power plant valves: армат́ура, в́ентиль, задв́ижка, кл́апан, предохран́ительньıӥ кл́апан (armatura, ventil', zadvizhka, klapan, predoxranitel'nyj klapan). These words can be distinguished semantically on the basis of binary marking for intrinsic (physical) or extrinsic (situational) meaning. Modifiers (determiners) also refer to intrinsic or extrinsic features of a valve. There appears to be sufficient evidence to posit that extrinsic features are primary in this semantic class. Analysis of the syntax of complex noun phrases enables one to establish sequential patterns of determiners for both English and Russian; the Russian pattern must account for the existence of both left- and right-posed determiners.
Exchance of Standardized Terminologies within the Framework of the Standardized Terminology Exchange Network (STEN)
Authors: Galinski C
Published: March 2009

Standardized terminologies created by national and international (ISO) standards organizations constitute a treasure of high quality terminological information that can be used for facilitating subject-area communication, documentation, and information retrieval, text management for subject-specific general texts and standards, and knowledge and technology transfer. Although increased activity in the area of terminology standardization represents a positive trend, failure to communicate among standardizing groups and to support international harmonization has resulted in duplication of effort and considerable terminological variation due to divergent scientific, technical, economic, and industrial development in different countries. Great savings could be realized if this information were readily accessible in the form of a worldwide data flow management system for standardized terminologies that would be sufficiently sophisticated to cope with the terminological, linguistic, and data-processing problems involved, while at the same time maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This paper discusses actual achievements among the Austrian Standards Institute (ON) and its Chinese (CSICCI), Russian (VNIIKI), and Japanese (JSA) counterparts.
SGML Representation of Concept Systems: Identifying, Tagging and Retrieving Term-Concept Structures in Textual Context
Authors: Shreve GM
Published: March 2009

The technical terminology used by the technical communicator or technical translator is encountered in texts. The terms in the texts are not randomly arranged but are used deliberately to invoke specific concept structures. SGML encoders and parsers can be used to identify and retrieve terminological structures in texts and help translators and terminologists better understand the relationship of terms in their textual context to abstract concept systems and knowledge organization.