bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assignment of nesting loggerhead turtles to their foraging areas in the Northwest Atlantic using stable isotopes
Authors: Pajuelo Mariela , Bjorndal Karen A. , Reich Kimberly J. , Vander Zanden Hannah B. , Hawkes Lucy A. , Bolten Alan B.
Published: October 2012

Differential foraging area use can affect population demographics of highly migratory fauna because of differential environmental changes and anthropogenic threats among those areas. Thus, identification of foraging areas is vital for the development of effective management strategies for endangered migratory species. In this study, we assigned 375 loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) nesting at six locations along the east coast of the United States to their foraging areas in the Northwest Atlantic (NWA) using carbon and nitrogen stable isotope values (δ13C and δ15N). We first evaluated the epidermis δ13C and δ15N values from 60 adult loggerheads with known foraging grounds. Twenty‐two females from 6 nesting beaches and 23 males from one breeding area were tracked with satellite transmitters to identify their foraging locations following breeding, and 15 adult turtles were sampled at one foraging ground. Significant trends were observed between both δ13C and δ15N values of satellite‐tracked loggerheads and the latitude of the foraging grounds to which the turtles migrated, reflecting a geographic pattern in the stable isotope values. Both δ13C and δ15N values characterized three geographic areas—with distinct abiotic and biotic features—used by adult loggerheads in the NWA. Discriminant analysis assigned all 375 female loggerheads to one of the three foraging areas; 91% were assigned with probabilities of ≥80%. The proportion of nesting turtles using each foraging ground varied geographically; most turtles nesting in northern beaches (72–80%) tend to forage at higher latitudes while most turtles nesting in southern beaches (46–81%) tend to forage at lower latitudes. Stable isotopes can reveal the foraging location of loggerhead turtles in the NWA, which will allow robust analyses of foraging ground effects on demography and improve the design of management strategies for the conservation of loggerhead populations. The conclusions and methods developed in this study are also relevant for other populations of sea turtles and for other highly migratory species.
Repeated Job Strain and the Risk of Depression: Longitudinal Analyses From the Whitehall II Study
Authors: Stansfeld Stephen A. , Shipley Martin J. , Head Jenny , Fuhrer Rebecca
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We addressed whether repeated job strain and low work social support increase the risk of major depressive disorder (MDD).

Methods. We used work characteristics from Karasek’s Job Strain model, measured on 3 occasions over 10 years in a cohort of 7732 British civil servants, to predict subsequent onset of MDD with the Composite International Diagnostic Interview.

Results. Repeated job strain was associated with increased risk of MDD (odds ratio [OR] = 2.19; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.48, 3.26; high job strain on 2 of 3 occasions vs none) in a fully adjusted model. Repeated low work social support was associated with MDD (OR = 1.61; 95% CI = 1.10, 2.37; low work social support on 2 of 3 occasions vs none). Repeated job strain remained associated with MDD after adjustment for earlier psychological distress.

Conclusions. Demonstration of an increased association for repeated job strain adds to the evidence that job strain is a risk factor for depression. Recognition and alleviation of job strain through work reorganization and staff training could reduce depression in employees.
Parental Characteristics Associated With Bullying Perpetration in US Children Aged 10 to 17 Years
Authors: Shetgiri Rashmi , Lin Hua , Avila Rosa M. , Flores Glenn
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We identified factors associated with child bullying in the United States.

Methods. We used the 2007 National Survey of Children’s Health to examine associations among child, parent, and community factors and bullying perpetration among children aged 10 to 17 years, using bivariate and stepwise multivariable analyses.

Results. African American and Latino children and children living in poverty and who had emotional, developmental, or behavioral (EDB) problems had higher odds of bullying, as did children of parents who felt angry with their child or who felt their child bothered them a lot or was hard to care for; suboptimal maternal mental health was associated with higher bullying odds. Children who always or usually completed homework and had parents who talked with them and met all or most of their friends had lower bullying odds.

Conclusions. Assessing children’s EDB problems, maternal mental health, and parental perceptions may identify children at risk for bullying. Parent–child communication, meeting children’s friends, and encouraging children academically were associated with lower bullying odds; these protective factors may be useful in designing preventive interventions.
Text4baby: Development and Implementation of a National Text Messaging Health Information Service
Authors: Whittaker Robyn , Matoff-Stepp Sabrina , Meehan Judy , Kendrick Juliette , Jordan Elizabeth , Stange Paul , Cash Amanda , Meyer Paul , Baitty Julie , Johnson Pamela , Ratzan Scott , Rhee Kyu
Published: October 2012

Text4baby is the first free national health text messaging service in the United States that aims to provide timely information to pregnant women and new mothers to help them improve their health and the health of their babies.

Here we describe the development of the text messages and the large public–private partnership that led to the national launch of the service in 2010. Promotion at the local, state, and national levels produced rapid uptake across the United States. More than 320 000 people enrolled with text4baby between February 2010 and March 2012.

Further evaluations of the effectiveness of the service are ongoing; however, important lessons can be learned from its development and uptake.
Estimating the Burden of Maternal and Neonatal Deaths Associated With Jaundice in Bangladesh: Possible Role of Hepatitis E Infection
Authors: Gurley Emily S. , Halder Amal K. , Streatfield Peter K. , Sazzad Hossain M.S. , Nurul Huda Tarique M. , Hossain M. Jahangir , Luby Stephen P.
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We estimated the population-based incidence of maternal and neonatal mortality associated with hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Bangladesh.

Methods. We analyzed verbal autopsy data from 4 population-based studies in Bangladesh to calculate the maternal and neonatal mortality ratios associated with jaundice during pregnancy. We then reviewed the published literature to estimate the proportion of maternal deaths associated with liver disease during pregnancy that were the result of HEV in hospitals.

Results. We found that 19% to 25% of all maternal deaths and 7% to 13% of all neonatal deaths in Bangladesh were associated with jaundice in pregnant women. In the published literature, 58% of deaths in pregnant women with acute liver disease in hospitals were associated with HEV.

Conclusions. Jaundice is frequently associated with maternal and neonatal deaths in Bangladesh, and the published literature suggests that HEV may cause many of these deaths. HEV is preventable, and studies to estimate the burden of HEV in endemic countries are urgently needed.
Restoring Balance: A Consensus Statement on the Protection of Vulnerable Research Participants
Authors: DuBois James M. , Beskow Laura , Campbell Jean , Dugosh Karen , Festinger David , Hartz Sarah , James Rosalina , Lidz Charles
Published: October 2012

A diverse panel convened in June 2011 to explore a dilemma in human research: some traits may make individuals or communities particularly vulnerable to a variety of harms in research; however, well-intended efforts to protect these vulnerable individuals and communities from harm may actually generate a series of new harms.

We have presented a consensus statement forged by the panel through discussion during a 2-day meeting and the article-writing process.

We have identified practical problems that sometimes arise in connection with providing additional safeguards for groups labeled as vulnerable and offered recommendations on how we might better balance concerns for protection with concerns for justice and participant autonomy.
Route Infrastructure and the Risk of Injuries to Bicyclists: A Case-Crossover Study
Authors: Teschke Kay , Harris M. Anne , Reynolds Conor C. O. , Winters Meghan , Babul Shelina , Chipman Mary , Cusimano Michael D. , Brubacher Jeff R. , Hunte Garth , Friedman Steven M. , Monro Melody , Shen Hui , Vernich Lee , Cripton Peter A.
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We compared cycling injury risks of 14 route types and other route infrastructure features.

Methods. We recruited 690 city residents injured while cycling in Toronto or Vancouver, Canada. A case-crossover design compared route infrastructure at each injury site to that of a randomly selected control site from the same trip.

Results. Of 14 route types, cycle tracks had the lowest risk (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.11; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.02, 0.54), about one ninth the risk of the reference: major streets with parked cars and no bike infrastructure. Risks on major streets were lower without parked cars (adjusted OR = 0.63; 95% CI = 0.41, 0.96) and with bike lanes (adjusted OR = 0.54; 95% CI = 0.29, 1.01). Local streets also had lower risks (adjusted OR = 0.51; 95% CI = 0.31, 0.84). Other infrastructure characteristics were associated with increased risks: streetcar or train tracks (adjusted OR = 3.0; 95% CI = 1.8, 5.1), downhill grades (adjusted OR = 2.3; 95% CI = 1.7, 3.1), and construction (adjusted OR = 1.9; 95% CI = 1.3, 2.9).

Conclusions. The lower risks on quiet streets and with bike-specific infrastructure along busy streets support the route-design approach used in many northern European countries. Transportation infrastructure with lower bicycling injury risks merits public health support to reduce injuries and promote cycling.
Patterns and Predictors of Enactment of State Childhood Obesity Legislation in the United States: 2006–2009
Authors: Eyler Amy A. , Nguyen Leah , Kong Jooyoung , Yan Yan , Brownson Ross
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We developed a content review for state policies related to childhood obesity, and we have quantitatively described the predictors of enactment.

Methods. We collected an inventory of 2006 through 2009 state legislation on 27 childhood obesity topics from legislative databases. We coded each bill for general information, topic content, and other appropriate components. We conducted a general descriptive analysis and 3 multilevel analyses using bill- and state-level characteristics to predict bill enactment.

Results. Common topics in the 27% of the bills that were enacted were community physical activity access, physical education, and school food policy. Committee and bipartisan sponsorship and having term limits significantly predicted enactment in at least 1 model. Bills with safe routes to school or health and nutrition content were twice as likely to be enacted. Bills containing product and menu labeling or soda and snack taxes were significantly less likely to be enacted.

Conclusions. Bipartisan and committee support and term limits are important in bill enactment. Advocacy efforts can be tailored to increase awareness and sense of priority among policymakers.
Impact of Policy Changes on Infant Feeding Decisions Among Low-Income Women Participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children
Authors: Whaley Shannon E. , Koleilat Maria , Whaley Mike , Gomez Judy , Meehan Karen , Saluja Kiran
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We present infant feeding data before and after the 2009 Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food package change that supported and incentivized breastfeeding. We describe the key role of California WIC staff in supporting these policy changes.

Methods. We analyzed WIC data on more than 180 000 infants in Southern California. We employed the analysis of variance and Tukey (honestly significant difference) tests to compare issuance rates of postpartum and infant food packages before and after the changes. We used analysis of covariance to adjust for poverty status changes as a potential confounder.

Results. Issuance rates of the “fully breastfeeding” package at infant WIC enrollment increased by 86% with the package changes. Rates also increased significantly for 2- and 6-month-old infants. Issuance rates of packages that included formula decreased significantly. All outcomes remained highly significant in the adjusted model.

Conclusions. Policy changes, training of front-line WIC staff, and participant education influenced issuance rates of WIC food packages. In California, the issuance rates of packages that include formula have significantly decreased and the rate for those that include no formula has significantly increased.
A Novel Look at Racial Health Disparities: The Interaction Between Social Disadvantage and Environmental Health
Authors: Hicken Margaret T. , Gee Gilbert C. , Morenoff Jeffrey , Connell Cathleen M , Snow Rachel C. , Hu Howard
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We explored the notion that social disadvantage increases vulnerability to the health effects of environmental hazards. Specifically, we examined (1) whether race modifies the association between blood lead and blood pressure and (2) whether socioeconomic status (SES) plays a role in this modifying effect.

Methods. Using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2001–2008) and linear regression, we estimated the association between blood lead and blood pressure. Using interactions among race, SES, and lead, we estimated this association by levels of social disadvantage.

Results. Black men and women showed a 2.8 (P < .001) and 4.0 (P < .001) millimeters mercury increase in SBP, respectively, for each doubling of blood lead. White adults showed no association. This lead–SBP association exhibited by Blacks was primarily isolated to Blacks of low SES. For example, poor but not nonpoor Black men showed a 4.8 millimeters mercury (P < .001) increase in SBP for each doubling of blood lead.

Conclusions. Our results suggest that social disadvantage exacerbates the deleterious health effects of lead. Our work provides evidence that social and environmental factors must be addressed together to eliminate health disparities.
Perceived Discrimination and DSM-IV–Based Alcohol and Illicit Drug Use Disorders
Authors: Hunte Haslyn E. R. , Barry Adam E.
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We examined the relationship between everyday and major discrimination and alcohol and drug use disorders in a nationally representative sample of African Americans and Black Caribbeans.

Methods. With data from the National Survey of American Life Study, we employed multivariable logistic regression analyses—while controlling for potential confounders—to examine the relationship between everyday and major discrimination and substance use disorders on the basis of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria.

Results. Every 1 unit increase in the everyday discrimination scale positively predicted alcohol (odds ratio [OR] = 1.02; P < .01) and drug use (OR = 1.02; P < .05) disorders. Similarly, each additional major discrimination event positively predicted alcohol (OR = 1.10; P < .05) and drug use (OR = 1.15; P < .01) disorders.

Conclusions. To our knowledge, this study is the first to examine problematic usage patterns rather than infrequent use of alcohol and drugs in a national sample of African American and Black Caribbean adults and the first to examine this particular relationship in a national sample of Black Caribbeans.
Eliminating Tuberculosis One Neighborhood at a Time
Authors: Cegielski J. Peter , Griffith David E. , McGaha Paul K. , Wolfgang Melanie , Robinson Celia B. , Clark Patricia A. , Hassell Willis L. , Robison Valerie A. , Walker Kerfoot P. , Wallace Charles
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We evaluated a strategy for preventing tuberculosis (TB) in communities most affected by it.

Methods. In 1996, we mapped reported TB cases (1985–1995) and positive tuberculin skin test (TST) reactors (1993–1995) in Smith County, Texas. We delineated the 2 largest, densest clusters, identifying 2 highest-incidence neighborhoods (180 square blocks, 3153 residents). After extensive community preparation, trained health care workers went door-to-door offering TST to all residents unless contraindicated. TST-positive individuals were escorted to a mobile clinic for radiography, clinical evaluation, and isoniazid preventive treatment (IPT) as indicated. To assess long-term impact, we mapped all TB cases in Smith County during the equivalent time period after the project.

Results. Of 2258 eligible individuals, 1291 (57.1%) were tested, 229 (17.7%) were TST positive, and 147 were treated. From 1996 to 2006, there were no TB cases in either project neighborhood, in contrast with the preintervention decade and the continued occurrence of TB in the rest of Smith County.

Conclusions. Targeting high-incidence neighborhoods for active, community-based screening and IPT may hasten TB elimination in the United States.
Housing Transitions and Low Birth Weight Among Low-Income Women: Longitudinal Study of the Perinatal Consequences of Changing Public Housing Policy
Authors: Kramer Michael R. , Waller Lance A. , Dunlop Anne L. , Hogue Carol R.
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We assessed the longitudinal association between housing transitions and pregnancy outcomes in a sample of public housing residents.

Methods. A cohort of 2670 Black women residing in Atlanta, Georgia, housing projects with 1 birth occurring between 1994 and 2007 was created from maternally linked longitudinal birth files and followed for subsequent births. Traditional regression and marginal structural models adjusting for time-varying confounding estimated the risk of preterm low birth weight (LBW) or small for gestational age LBW by maternal housing transition patterns.

Results. Women moving from public to private housing as a result of housing project demolition were at elevated risk for preterm LBW (risk ratio = 1.74; 95% confidence interval =  1.00–3.04) compared with women not affected by project demolition. Other non–policy-related housing transition patterns were not associated with pregnancy outcomes.

Conclusions. Further longitudinal study of housing transitions among public housing residents is needed to better understand the relationship between housing, neighborhoods, housing policy, and perinatal outcomes.
Associations Between Psychiatric Inpatient Bed Supply and the Prevalence of Serious Mental Illness in Veterans Affairs Nursing Homes
Authors: Bowersox Nicholas W. , Szymanski Benjamin J. , McCarthy John F.
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We assessed whether reductions in inpatient psychiatric beds resulted in transinstitutionalization to nursing home care of patients with serious mental illness (SMI) within the Veterans Health Administration (VHA).

Methods. We assessed trends in national and site-level inpatient psychiatric beds and nursing home patient demographics, service use, and functioning from the VHA National Patient Care Database, VHA Service Support Center Bed Control, and VHA Minimum Data Set. We estimated nursing home admission appropriateness using propensity score analyses based on Michigan Medicaid Nursing Facility Level of Care Determinations ratings.

Results. From 1999 to 2007, the number of VHA inpatient psychiatric beds declined (43 894–40 928), the average inpatient length of stay decreased (33.1–19.0 days), and the prevalence of SMI in nursing homes rose (29.4%–43.8%). At site level, psychiatric inpatient bed availability was unrelated to SMI prevalence in nursing home admissions. However, nursing home residents with SMI were more likely to be inappropriately admitted than were residents without SMI (4.0% vs 3.2%).

Conclusions. These results suggest the need for increased attention to the long-term care needs of individuals with SMI. Additional steps need to be taken to ensure that patients with SMI are offered appropriate alternatives to nursing home care and receive adequate screening before admission to nursing home treatment.
Family History of Cancer and Its Association With Breast Cancer Risk Perception and Repeat Mammography
Authors: Haber Gillian , Ahmed Nasar U. , Pekovic Vukosava
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We examined the strength of association between family history of breast cancer and family history of other cancers with breast cancer risk perception and repeat mammography.

Methods. The sample included 6706 women, aged 46 to 74 years, with no breast cancer history. Multinomial logistic regression assessed the association between family history of cancer and breast cancer risk perception. Structural equation modeling estimated the relationship between family history of cancer and repeat mammography.

Results. Breast cancer risk perception was strongly associated with family history of breast cancer in the mother or mother and sister (odds ratio [OR] = 32.15; P < .001); family history of breast cancer in the sister, daughter, or male first-degree relative (OR = 6.6–8.4; P < .001); and maternal history of other cancers (OR = 1.38–2.73; P < .001). For repeat mammography, women with maternal history of breast cancer had a mean increase of 0.50 more mammograms in the past 6 years compared with women without maternal history of breast cancer (P < .001).

Conclusions. Breast cancer risk perception was associated with the type of cancer found in first-degree relatives and with the person’s relationship to the family member with cancer. Family history of breast cancer affected repeat mammography behavior.
Social Connectedness and Disease Transmission: Social Organization, Cohesion, Village Context, and Infection Risk in Rural Ecuador
Authors: Zelner Jonathan L. , Trostle James , Goldstick Jason E. , Cevallos William , House James S. , Eisenberg Joseph N. S.
Published: October 2012

Social networks are typically seen as conduits for the spread of disease and disease risk factors. However, social relationships also reduce the incidence of chronic disease and potentially infectious diseases. Seldom are these opposing effects considered simultaneously. We have shown how and why diarrheal disease spreads more slowly to and in rural Ecuadorian villages that are more remote from the area’s population center. Reduced contact with outside individuals partially accounts for remote villages’ relatively lower prevalence of diarrheal disease. But equally or more important is the greater density of social ties between individuals in remote communities, which facilitates the spread of individual and collective practices that reduce the transmission of diarrheal disease.
Primary Care Pediatrics and Public Health: Meeting the Needs of Today’s Children
Authors: Kuo Alice A. , Etzel Ruth A. , Chilton Lance A. , Watson Camille , Gorski Peter A.
Published: October 2012

The proportion of children suffering from chronic illnesses—such as asthma and obesity, which have significant environmental components—is increasing. Chronic disease states previously seen only in adulthood are emerging during childhood, and health inequalities by social class are increasing. Advocacy to ensure environmental health and to protect from the biological embedding of toxic stress has become a fundamental part of pediatrics. We have presented the rationale for addressing environmental and social determinants of children’s health, the epidemiology of issues facing children’s health, recent innovations in pediatric medical education that have incorporated public health principles, and policy opportunities that have arisen with the passage of the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Supplementing National Menu Labeling
Authors: Hodge James G. , White Lexi C.
Published: October 2012

The US Food and Drug Administration’s forthcoming national menu labeling regulations are designed to help curb the national obesity epidemic by requiring calorie counts on restaurants’ menus. However, posted calories can be easily ignored or misunderstood by consumers and fail to accurately describe the healthiness of foods. We propose supplemental models that include nutritional information (e.g., fat, salt, sugar) or specific guidance (e.g., “heart-healthy” graphics). The goal is to empower restaurant patrons with better data to make healthier choices, and ultimately to reduce obesity prevalence.
The Incoherence of China’s National Health Development Strategies
Authors: Zhang Jian , Yan Fei , Tang Shenglan
Published: October 2012

China ambitiously promised to provide safe, effective, and affordable health care services to all citizens. However, the national strategies for enhancing health remain patchy, and the policy frameworks to empower and inspire individuals and communities to pursue a healthy lifestyle are largely fragmented. The incoherency is well epitomized by China’s failure to implement key parts of the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control treaty. We seek to advance constructive debate on the health care reform and national health development in China.
The Raising of Minimum Alcohol Prices in Saskatchewan, Canada: Impacts on Consumption and Implications for Public Health
Authors: Stockwell Tim , Zhao Jinhui , Giesbrecht Norman , Macdonald Scott , Thomas Gerald , Wettlaufer Ashley
Published: October 2012

Objectives. We report impacts on alcohol consumption following new and increased minimum alcohol prices in Saskatchewan, Canada.

Methods. We conducted autoregressive integrated moving average time series analyses of alcohol sales and price data from the Saskatchewan government alcohol monopoly for 26 periods before and 26 periods after the intervention.

Results. A 10% increase in minimum prices significantly reduced consumption of beer by 10.06%, spirits by 5.87%, wine by 4.58%, and all beverages combined by 8.43%. Consumption of coolers decreased significantly by 13.2%, cocktails by 21.3%, and liqueurs by 5.3%. There were larger effects for purely off-premise sales (e.g., liquor stores) than for primarily on-premise sales (e.g., bars, restaurants). Consumption of higher strength beer and wine declined the most. A 10% increase in minimum price was associated with a 22.0% decrease in consumption of higher strength beer (> 6.5% alcohol/volume) versus 8.17% for lower strength beers. The neighboring province of Alberta showed no change in per capita alcohol consumption before and after the intervention.

Conclusions. Minimum pricing is a promising strategy for reducing the public health burden associated with hazardous alcohol consumption. Pricing to reflect percentage alcohol content of drinks can shift consumption toward lower alcohol content beverage types.
Winter Annual Cover Crop Impacts on No‐Till Soil Physical Properties and Organic Matter
Authors: Steele M.K. , Coale F.J. , Hill R.L.
Published: October 2012

The inclusion of winter annual cereal cover crops (WCC) in grain crop rotations is a common management practice promoted to protect soil resources and enhance water quality. However, the effects of long‐term incorporation of WCC into no‐till grain crop rotations on soil physical properties are not well established. We evaluated the long‐term effects of WCC on soil physical properties after 13 yr of use at three locations in Maryland, USA. Continuous maize (Zea mays L.) was the summer grain crop. In the control treatment, maize was followed by winter fallow and in the WCC treatment, cereal rye (Secale cereal L.) was planted as a WCC in the off‐season. We examined aggregate stability, total and labile organic matter, soil bulk density (BD), air permeability (AP), water infiltration rate (WIR), and hydraulic conductivity (HC), during the growing and off‐season. Aggregate stability increased under the WCC treatment but there were no increases in total organic matter and labile organic matter. Only during the winter sampling season at the two Coastal Plain locations, soils under WCC displayed improved soil physical properties in comparison with the same soils under winter fallow. The heavier‐textured soils at the Piedmont location exhibited no consistent differences attributable to WCC.
Long‐Term Tillage and Crop Rotations for 47–49 Years Influences Hydrological Properties of Two Soils in Ohio
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Kadono Atsunobu , Lal Rattan , Dick Warren
Published: October 2012

Research is lacking concerning soil water retention (SWR) and infiltration rates (qs) as affected by long‐term tillage and crop rotation. Thus, soil hydrological properties were measured at two long‐term experimental sites near Wooster (49 yr) and Hoytville (47 yr) in central Ohio. The Wooster soil is silt loam in texture and well‐drained, whereas, the Hoytville soil is clay loam in texture and poorly‐drained. Tillage treatments were, no‐tillage (NT), minimum‐tillage (MT), and plow‐tillage (PT), and crop rotations were continuous corn (Zea mays L.), and corn‐soybean (Glycine max L.) in a 2‐yr rotation. Soil hydrological properties were compared with those of adjacent and undisturbed woodlots (WL). The SWR characteristics indicated higher volumetric water content at almost all matric potentials (Ψm) under WL soils than for the three tillage systems at both sites. Among tillage treatments, soils under NT had higher SWR than those under MT and PT for all four (0–10, 10–20, 20–30, and 30–40 cm) depths. In general, long‐term NT contained a higher proportion of macropores (>1000 μm) and micropores (<10 μm), and hence had higher SWR than MT and PT for all depths. The qs was 1.9 and 4.2 times higher in well‐drained soils under NT as compared to those under MT and PT, respectively, and 2.1 and 4.2 times higher in poorly‐drained soils. Two physical based infiltration models, Green‐Ampt and Parlange, fitted the measured infiltration data well with the coefficients of determination (r2) ranging from 0.91 to 0.98, and root mean square error values from 0.06 to 0.66 mm h−1. Results support the conclusion that long‐term (47–49 yr) use of NT practices in both well‐drained and poorly‐drained soils improves SWR, pore‐size distribution, and qs compared to PT and MT practices.
Carbon and Nitrogen Mineralization of a Semiarid Shrubland Exposed to Experimental Nitrogen Deposition
Authors: Biudes Marcelo S. , Vourlitis George L.
Published: October 2012

High atmospheric N inputs to southern Californian shrublands can alter organic matter quantity and quality and influence decomposition and N mineralization rates. We conducted a laboratory experiment to test the hypothesis that N addition would increase microbial respiration and net N mineralization. Intact soil cores and litter from Artemisia californica Less. were collected from field plots exposed to either ambient or elevated N (50 kg N ha−1 yr−1) over a 7‐yr period. Microbial respiration was significantly higher in control soil, and litter amendment, regardless of origin, significantly increased respiration. In contrast, net N mineralization was significantly higher in added N soil, and litter addition significantly depressed net N mineralization. Our results suggest that chronic N deposition causes a decline in litter decomposition and microbial N demand. If indicative of the longer‐term decomposition kinetics, these results suggest that chronic N inputs may increase soil C storage and N availability in these semiarid shrublands.
Investigating the performance of a UV/H2O2 integrated flow-through system followed by free chlorine
Authors: Chu Xiaona , Hu Jiangyong , Xu Yang
Published: October 2012

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation is an emerging technique for drinking water disinfection due to effective removal of enteric pathogens without generation of disinfection by-products (DBPs). In order to overcome the drawback of UV irradiation the integration of UV disinfection with sequential disinfectant was proposed. Among all the possible combinations and sequences, a UV/H2O2-Cl2 integrated system has proven to be effective in many previous studies. In this study, a UV/H2O2 flow-through system followed by free chlorine was built and studied. MS-2 coliphage, as a model for a waterborne virus, were inactivated to evaluate the disinfection capacity. Assimilable organic carbon (AOC) tests and an Ames assay using Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 on such a proposed integrated system were also performed to determine re-growth potential of bacteria and genotoxicity, respectively. Briefly, such a proposed flow-through system was effective in removal of MS-2 coliphage and no genotoxic potential was detected according to the results; however, an increase of AOC may raise concerns of bacterial re-growth along the subsequent distribution system.
Pharmaceutical removal during managed aquifer recharge with pretreatment by advanced oxidation
Authors: Lekkerkerker-Teunissen K. , Chekol E. T. , Maeng S. K. , Ghebremichael K. , Houtman C. J. , Verliefde A. R. D. , Verberk J. Q. J. C. , Amy G. L. , van Dijk J. C.
Published: October 2012

Organic micropollutants (OMPs) are detected in sources for drinking water and treatment possibilities are investigated. Innovative removal technologies are available such as membrane filtration and advanced oxidation, but also biological treatment should be considered. By combining an advanced oxidation process with managed aquifer recharge (MAR), two complementary processes are expected to provide a hybrid system for OMP removal, according to the multiple barrier approach. Laboratory scale batch reactor experiments were conducted to investigate the removal of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and 14 different pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) from MAR influent water and water subjected to oxidation, under different process conditions. A DOC removal of 10% was found in water under oxic (aerobic) conditions for batch reactor experiments, a similar value for DOC removal was observed in the field. Batch reactor experiments for the removal of PhACs showed that the removal of pharmaceuticals ranged from negligible to more than 90%. Under oxic conditions, seven out of 14 pharmaceuticals were removed over 90% and 12 out of 14 pharmaceuticals were removed at more than 50% during 30 days of experiments. Under anoxic conditions, four out of 14 pharmaceuticals were removed over 90% and eight out of 14 pharmaceuticals were removed at more than 50% over 30 days' experiments. Carbamazepine and phenazone were persistent both under oxic and anoxic conditions. The PhACs removal efficiency with oxidized water was, for most compounds, comparable to the removal with MAR influent water.
Toxic metal ions in water and their prevalence in Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Gupta Vinod Kumar , Dobhal Rajendra , Nayak Arunima , Agarwal Shilpi , Uniyal Devi Prasad , Singh Prashant , Sharma Bhavtosh , Tyagi Shweta , Singh Rakesh
Published: October 2012

Developmental activities, geological reasons and mixing of industrial wastes are responsible for the deteriorating quality of surface and ground water in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand. The drinking water sources of 13 districts of Uttarakhand have been assessed for the presence of four toxic metal ions (arsenic, cadmium, chromium and lead). The health aspects of the four metal ions have also been reviewed according to the prescribed limits set up by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and World Health Organization (WHO). The present study reveals the absence of arsenic at almost all stations. Cadmium has been found only at Rudrapur, whereas chromium is found to be present in more than prescribed limits, in Kolti, Mussoorie and Dehradun. Significant presence of lead in the six districts of the state is indicative of the fact that proper management strategy of toxic metal ion remediation is required. Chromium and lead have exceeded the prescribed limit in 1.3 and 4.5% samples, respectively. However, as per BIS standard, cadmium is higher than the prescribed limit in 0.6% samples but according to the WHO standard, cadmium has exceeded in about 26% samples. Out of the total 156 samples analyzed, 6.4 and 33.3% samples have been found to possess the toxic metal ions in more than the prescribed limits as per BIS and WHO guidelines, respectively.
Elution of bisphenol A and its chlorination by-products from lined pipes in water supply process
Authors: Kosaka K. , Hayashida T. , Terasaki M. , Asami M. , Yamada T. , Itoh M. , Akiba M.
Published: October 2012

Elution of bisphenol A (BPA), chlorinated BPAs (i.e., 3-chlorobisphenol A, sum of 3,5-dichlorobisphenol A and 3,3′-dichlorobisphenol A, 3,3′,5-trichlorobisphenol A, and 3,3′,5,5′-tetrachlorobisphenol A) and 2,4,6-trichlorophenol (TCP) from lined pipes coated with two epoxy resins were investigated in a 24-month continuous test passing tap water. BPA, chlorinated BPAs, and TCP were not detected in the tap water at the outlet of lined pipes in most cases. However, all of these chemicals were detected in the tap water after 16 h of retention. The sums of BPA and chlorinated BPAs in the retained tap water were usually high when the residual chlorine levels were low. The residual chlorine was related to temperature, residual chlorine in the tap water at the inlet of lined pipes, and the elapsed time. From the results of leach tests, it was indicated that no marked changes in BPA concentration over the 24 months of the continuous test. Chlorinated BPAs and TCP were accumulated on the surface of lined pipes during the continuous test.
Applying multi-criteria decision analysis to select WSUD and LID technologies
Authors: Ahammed Faisal , Hewa Guna Alankarage , Argue John R.
Published: October 2012

Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) and Low Impact Development (LID) principles were investigated in Dhaka's drainage network using ‘Regime in Balance’ strategy for Average Recurrence Interval (ARI), Y = 100 years. Three feasible alternatives, such as, leaky-well, soak-away and infiltration trench were identified and designed to improve Dhaka's present unsatisfactory stormwater drainage system into one which is sustainable. For selecting the best one, we applied a multi-criteria decision analysis approach and chose the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model. Eleven criteria under three categories (technical, economic and social) were considered to quantify relative priorities of alternatives. Pair-wise comparisons of alternatives were performed against each criterion and ranked using a scale from 0 to 9. During the process of applying AHP model, consistency of ranking was thoroughly checked and a reasonable level of inconsistency was accepted due to the nature of human judgement. After the analysis, it was found that leaky-well (percentage priority 43%) followed by soak-away (38%) was the most appropriate technology for improving urban stormwater management system in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The proposed model can also be used in better selecting WSUD and LID technologies in other geographic locations.
Applicability of ion exchange for NOM removal from a sulfate-rich surface water incorporating full reuse of the brine
Authors: Verdickt L. , Closset W. , D'Haeseleer V. , Cromphout J.
Published: October 2012

The raw water of water treatment works ‘the Blankaart’ (Belgium) is characterized by high levels of NOM (Natural Organic Matter), alkalinity and sulfate. From 2006 until present, the possibility of applying fluidized ion exchange for NOM removal has been investigated at the plant. Pilot testing using Miex® (Magnetic Ion Exchange) resin demonstrated that under standard operating conditions, a TOC (Total Organic Carbon) removal efficiency of 40 to 50% can be achieved. Moreover, jar tests demonstrated that the application of ion exchange as a pretreatment for enhanced coagulation would allow the coagulant dose to be reduced by 60% without compromising effluent quality. Finally, column experiments were conducted to evaluate (i) the effect of full brine reuse and (ii) the possibility of using less expensive conventional ion exchange resins instead of the patented Miex® resin. Recuperation of the waste brine after flocculation with a ferric salt and dewatering was found to have no significant impact on the NOM removal efficiency. Column experiments with Miex® and conventional type 1 anion exchange resins revealed that the fluidization characteristics of both types of resin allow use in fluidized bed systems and that with both types of resin, similar NOM removal efficiencies can be attained. However, higher contact times are required when conventional resins are applied.
Removal of DOM and THM formation potential of tropical surface water by ceramic microfiltration
Authors: Abeynayaka A. , Visvanathan C. , Monthakanti N. , Hashimoto T. , Katayama H.
Published: October 2012

Dissolved organic matter (DOM) and trihalomethane formation potential (THMFP) removal by ceramic microfiltration (CMF) under different operating conditions was investigated and compared with the performance of a conventional water treatment plant at Bangkhen, Thailand. The tropical surface raw water for all the experiments was taken from Chaophraya River, Bangkok, Thailand. CMF studies were conducted with both pilot scale (Pilot-CMF) and laboratory scale (Lab-CMF) units. Observations indicate that the properties of raw water such as dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration and specific ultraviolet absorbance (SUVA) vary with time. Under these varying raw water conditions, the conventional water treatment process demonstrates varying THMFP removals. The Pilot-CMF provides better and steady THMFP removals compared to conventional process. Bangkhen water treatment plant (BWTP) filtrate SUVA (2.01 ± 1.07) and Pilot-CMF filtrate SUVA (3.22 ± 0.98) were significantly lower compared to raw water SUVA (4.79 ± 1.39). This SUVA reduction indicated a higher removal of aromatic DOMs through both treatment processes. Pilot-CMF manifest a grater removal of hydrophilic DOM compared to filtrate from BWTP. This corresponds to a higher reduction of THMFP by Pilot-CMF over BWTP. It was found that higher removal of DOC by Pilot-CMF is associated with coagulation process, effects of suspended solids and membrane properties.
A practical decision scheme for the prioritization of water pipe replacement
Authors: Tlili Y. , Nafi A.
Published: October 2012

Most water distribution networks are assemblies of buried elements which makes their diagnosis complex and requires implementing an asset management (AM) policy of actions performed in the short, medium and long terms. To implement such an AM, decision makers must diagnose the condition of the asset by developing specific tools for establishing priorities between assets and plan the actions needed to maintain or improve their condition. This study focuses on two topics. (i) The implementation of a spatiotemporal analysis of the propagation of pipe breaks. This innovative approach inspired by criminality analysis allows focusing on hotspot zones in order to discriminate critical assets. We have designed a new ‘clustering’ criterion that can be used as a prioritization criterion for asset sorting. (ii) The second part addresses the issue of multi-criteria decision making concerning the classification of pipe renewal candidates by comparing two kinds of aggregation method: (i) an unsophisticated approach by using adapted weighted sum methods; and (ii) a sophisticated approach by using the Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluation (PROMETHEE) and the ‘Elicitation Et Choix Traduisant la REalité’ (ELECTRE III). The underlying reason for comparing these methods is to know whether the unsophisticated methods ensure reliable replacement policy compared to the sophisticated one.
Effectiveness of reconstruction of water supply system from the economic viewpoint and affecting factors – case study of a city
Authors: Nakazono Hayato , Dodo Okinari , Kataishi Kinya
Published: October 2012

To solve the issues of decreasing revenue of waterworks caused by population decline and increasing renewal cost caused by ageing facilities, it is necessary to strengthen the financial base of the waterworks by undertaking efficient reconstruction of water supply system, and the cost of future renewal demands and anti-seismic upgrading need to be reduced. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of the reconstruction of water supply system from the economic viewpoint and identifies affecting factors. Assessments show it is more effective to terminate 60% of plants. The following factors were taken into account; intake water amount, length of conveyance pipe, diameter of conveyance pipe, difference in elevation between the abolished and integrated plants, and ratio of hourly maximum amount of water distribution, treatment capacity ratio, the anti-seismic capacity of abolished plants. Out of these factors, the intake water amount from abolished plant to merged plant has the highest correlated factor affecting the reconstruction of water supply system from the economic viewpoint.
LGBT organizations in USA as interest groups: Characteristics and influence
Authors: Antonic Slobodan
Published: October 2012

This paper provides an overview of the major LGBT organizations in the U.S.,
their organizational resources, and ways to influence politicians and the
media. LGBT movement during the 1990s, completed its transition from
liberationist and the system outside position, to the lobbyist and system
insider position. The paper discusses the criticism dissidents from LGBT
movement consider the alienation of LGBT establishment of the true interests
of its membership. At the end of the article LGBT movement and its
organizations are considered from the point of success in achieving the goals
and compared with the achievements and impact of counter-movement of
Christian traditionalists.
Ways of spending free time by alcohol addicts during periods of drinking and rehabilitation
Authors: Dragisic-Labas Sladjana , Ljubicic Milana
Published: October 2012

In the introduction we discuss free time in the context of consequences of
alcoholism on social, psychological, and especially family life, then, the
changing use of free time as a significant symptom of alcoholism, and
finally, the new organization of free time as an important goal of social
reintegration of alcoholics? families. In the next section, we examine ways
in which members of Skela Club at the ?Dr Laza Lazarevic? Psychiatric
Hospital spend their free time during periods of drinking, and during
rehabilitation and social integration. The sample consisted of 30 subjects
(25 men and 5 women), aged between 25 and 65, living in Belgrade or nearby,
regularly attending Club meetings and actively participating in its work. A
questionnaire with 35 questions, 32 closed and 3 open, was used. The first
part referred to socio-demographic variables, the second to ways of spending
free time during the period of addiction, and the third part to free time at
present, in the stage of abstinence and rehabilitation. During the period of
drinking, subjects were mostly spending their free time in the company of
other addicts, in 80% of cases. Their leisure was not very interesting, as it
consisted of very few activities: sitting in a bar (76.6%), watching TV
(53.3%), reading newspapers (50%), sleeping (40%). In the period of drinking
a large number of subjects, regardless of gender, felt lonely - 83%. During
the period of abstinence, on the contrary, leisure is better organized, the
number of activities increases, and their model changes to socializing with
friends (76.6%), communication with family members (66.6%), going for walks
(60%), reading books (50%), listening to music (46.6%), and sport activities
(36.6%). The conclusion is that alcohol addicts spent their free time during
the period of drinking significantly differently than at present, when they
are undergoing treatment and rehabilitation. The difference in the quality
and organization of free time at present and before is considerable, as is
the amount of money invested in cultural and recreational activities.
Abstinents spend more time with family, communicate better, renew old and
establish new contacts. New ways of spending free time and family rituals are
very important for their children since it prevents trans-generational
transmission of alcoholism.