bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Gingival Crevicular Fluid Biomarkers During Periodontal Maintenance With Subsequent Progressive Periodontitis
Authors: Reinhardt Richard A. , Stoner Julie A. , Golub Lorne M. , Lee Hsi‐Ming , Nummikoski Pirkka V. , Sorsa Timo , Payne Jeffrey B.
Published: February 2010

Background: The analysis of biomarkers in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) may be helpful in forecasting patient vulnerability to future attachment loss. The purpose of this study is to correlate GCF biomarkers of inflammation and bone resorption with subsequent periodontal attachment and bone loss in a longitudinal trial of a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitor.

Methods: GCF was collected from two periodontal pockets (mean ± SD: 5.1 ± 1.0 mm) at baseline and annually in postmenopausal females with moderate to advanced periodontitis undergoing periodontal maintenance every 3 to 4 months during a 2‐year double‐masked, placebo‐controlled, randomized clinical trial of subantimicrobial dose doxycycline (SDD; 20 mg two times a day). Subjects were randomized to SDD (n = 64) or a placebo (n = 64). GCF was analyzed for the inflammation markers interleukin (IL)‐1β (using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay), total collagenase activity (using hydrolysis of a synthetic octapeptide), and MMP‐8 (using a Western blot) and the bone‐resorption marker carboxyterminal telopeptide cross‐link fragment of type I collagen (ICTP) (using a radioimmunoassay). Generalized estimating equations were used to associate these biomarkers, categorized into tertiles, with subsequent clinical attachment (using an automated disk probe) or interproximal bone loss (using radiography). Odds ratio (OR) values compared highest to lowest tertile groups.

Results: Increases in GCF IL‐1β and MMP‐8 during the first year of periodontal maintenance were associated with increased odds of subsequent (year 2) periodontal attachment loss (OR = 1.67; P = 0.01 and OR = 1.50; P = 0.02, respectively) driven by the placebo group. Elevated baseline ICTP was also associated with increased odds of 1‐ and 2‐year loss of alveolar bone density (OR = 1.98; P = 0.0001) in the placebo group, not the SDD group, and a loss of bone height (OR = 1.38; P = 0.06), again driven by the placebo group.

Conclusion: These data support the hypothesis that elevated GCF biomarkers of inflammation and bone resorption from a small number of moderate/deep sites have the potential to identify patients who are vulnerable to progressive periodontitis, and SDD may modify that risk.
Characterization of Mandibular Bone in a Mouse Model of Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Lee Melissa M. , Chu Emily Y. , El‐Abbadi Mohga M. , Foster Brian L. , Tompkins Kevin A. , Giachelli Cecilia M. , Somerman Martha J.
Published: February 2010

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a worldwide health problem with increasing prevalence and poor outcomes, including severe cardiovascular disease and renal osteodystrophy. With advances in medical treatment, patients with CKD are living longer and require oral care. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of CKD and dietary phosphate on mandibular bone structure using a uremic mouse model.

Methods: Uremia (U) was induced in female dilute brown agouti/2 mice by partial renal ablation. Uremic mice received a normal‐phosphate (NP) or a high‐phosphate (HP) diet. sham surgeries were performed in a control group of mice; half received an NP diet, and the other half was fed an HP diet. At termination, animals were sacrificed, and mandibles were collected for microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) and histologic analysis.

Results: Sera levels of blood urea nitrogen, parathyroid hormone, and alkaline phosphatase were significantly increased in U/NP and U/HP mice versus sham controls, whereas serum calcium was increased in the U/HP group, and no differences were noted in serum phosphate levels among groups. Micro‐CT analyses revealed a significant reduction in cortical bone thickness and an increase in trabecular thickness and trabecular bone volume/tissue volume in U/NP and U/HP groups compared to the sham/NP group. A significant reduction in cortical bone thickness was also found in the sham/HP group versus the sham/NP group. Histologic evaluation confirmed increased trabeculation in the U groups.

Conclusion: CKD in mice, especially under conditions of HP feeding, results in marked effects on alveolar bone homeostasis.
Clinical and Histologic Evaluation of Granular Beta‐Tricalcium Phosphate for the Treatment of Human Intrabony Periodontal Defects: A Report on Five Cases
Authors: Stavropoulos Andreas , Windisch Péter , Szendröi‐Kiss Dora , Peter Rosta , Gera István , Sculean Anton
Published: February 2010

Background: The aim of the study is to clinically and histologically evaluate the healing of advanced intrabony defects treated with open flap debridement and the adjunct implantation of granular beta tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP).

Methods: Five patients, each displaying advanced combined 1‐ and 2‐wall intrabony defects around teeth scheduled for extraction or root resection, were recruited. Approximately 6 months after surgery, the teeth or roots were removed together with a portion of their surrounding soft and hard tissues and processed for histologic evaluation.

Results: The mean probing depth (PD) was reduced from 10.8 ± 2.3 mm presurgically to 4.6 ± 2.1 mm, whereas a mean clinical attachment level (CAL) gain of 5.0 ± 0.7 mm was observed. The increase in gingival recession was 1.2 ± 3.2 mm. The histologic evaluation indicated the formation of new cellular cementum with inserting collagen fibers to a varying extent (mean: 1.9 ± 0.7 mm; range: 1.2 to 3.03 mm) coronal to the most apical extent of the root instrumentation. The mean new bone formation was 1.0 ± 0.7 mm (range: 0.0 to 1.9 mm). In most specimens, β‐TCP particles were embedded in the connective tissue, whereas the formation of a mineralized bone‐like or cementum‐like tissue around the particles was only occasionally observed.

Conclusion: The present data indicates that treatment of intrabony periodontal defects with this β‐TCP may result in substantial clinical improvements such as PD reduction and CAL gain, but this β‐TCP does not seem to enhance the regeneration of cementum, periodontal ligament, and bone.
An Update on Novel Non‐Invasive Approaches for Periodontal Diagnosis
Authors: Xiang Xiaoming , Sowa Michael G. , Iacopino Anthony M. , Maev Roman G. , Hewko Mark D. , Man Angela , Liu Kan‐Zhi
Published: February 2010

For decades there has been an ongoing search for clinically acceptable methods for the accurate, non‐invasive diagnosis and prognosis of periodontitis. There are several well‐known inherent drawbacks with current clinical procedures. The purpose of this review is to summarize some of the newly emerging diagnostic approaches, namely, infrared spectroscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and ultrasound. The history and attractive features of these new approaches are briefly illustrated, and the interesting and significant inventions related to dental applications are discussed. The particularly attractive aspects for the dental community are that some of these methods are totally non‐invasive, do not impose any discomforts to the patients during the procedure, and require no tissue to be extracted. For instance, multiple inflammatory indices withdrawn from near infrared spectra have the potential to identify early signs of inflammation leading to tissue breakdown. Morphologically, some other non‐invasive imaging modalities, such as OCT and ultrasound, could be employed to accurately measure probing depths and assess the status of periodontal attachment, the front‐line of disease progression. Given that these methods reflect a completely different assessment of periodontal inflammation, if clinically validated, these methods could either replace traditional clinical examinations for the diagnosis of periodontitis or at least serve as attractive complementary diagnostic tools. However, the potential of these techniques should be interpreted more cautiously given the multifactorial character of periodontal disease. In addition to these novel tools in the field of periodontal inflammatory diseases, other alternative modalities like microbiologic and genetic approaches are only briefly mentioned in this review because they have been thoroughly discussed in other comprehensive reviews.
Clinical Effect of Subgingivally Delivered Simvastatin in the Treatment of Patients With Chronic Periodontitis: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Pradeep Avani R. , Thorat Manojkumar S.
Published: February 2010

Background: Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that results in bone resorption creating bony defects, which may cause tooth loss. Various drugs have been studied using local delivery to improve the periodontal health and to achieve periodontal regeneration. Simvastatin (SMV) is a specific competitive inhibitor of 3‐hydroxy‐2‐methyl‐glutaryl coenzyme A reductase. The present study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of SMV, 1.2 mg, in an indigenously prepared biodegradable controlled‐release gel as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of chronic periodontitis.

Methods: Sixty patients were categorized into two treatment groups: SRP plus placebo (group 1) and SRP plus SMV, 1.2 mg (group 2). Clinical parameters were recorded at baseline before SRP and at 1, 2, 4, and 6 months; they included modified sulcus bleeding index (mSBI), probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL). At baseline and after 6 months, radiologic assessment of intrabony defect (IBD) fill was done using computer‐aided software. The mean concentration of SMV in gingival crevicular fluid was estimated by reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results: All subjects tolerated the drug, without any postapplication inflammation. Both therapies resulted in significant improvements. The decrease in mSBI score at 6 months was greater in group 2 (2.3267 ± 0.8017) compared to group 1 (0.5033 ± 0.6815). The mean decrease in PD from baseline to 6 months was 1.20 ± 1.24 mm and 4.26 ± 1.59 mm in groups 1 and 2, respectively. Mean CAL gain from baseline to 6 months was 1.63 ± 1.99 mm and 4.36 ± 1.92 mm in groups 1 and 2, respectively. In group 2, there was greater decrease in mean IBD (1.41 ± 0.74 mm or 32.54%) compared to group 1 (0.09 ± 0.58 mm or 2.16%).

Conclusion: There was a greater decrease in gingival index and PD and more CAL gain with significant IBD fill at sites treated with SRP plus locally delivered SMV in patients with chronic periodontitis.
Periodontal Disease, Oxidative Stress, and Risk for Preeclampsia
Authors: Horton Amanda L. , Boggess Kim A. , Moss Kevin L. , Beck James , Offenbacher Steven
Published: February 2010

Background: Maternal periodontal infection is associated with an increased risk for preeclampsia. Periodontal infection is also associated with increased oxidative stress. Our objective was to determine the relationship among maternal periodontal disease, maternal oxidative stress, and the development of preeclampsia.

Methods: A secondary analysis of prospectively collected data from the Oral Conditions and Pregnancy Study was performed. A cohort of healthy women enrolled at <26 weeks of gestation underwent an oral examination, serum sampling, and delivery follow‐up. A periodontal infection was categorized by clinical parameters as healthy or mild or moderate/severe periodontal infection. Preeclampsia was defined by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists criteria as blood pressure >140/90 mmHg and ≥1+ proteinuria on a catheterized specimen. Maternal blood was assayed for 8‐isoprostane concentrations using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and stratified as elevated (≥75th percentile) or not elevated (<75th percentile). Odds ratios (ORs) for preeclampsia were calculated and stratified by periodontal disease and the level of 8‐isoprostane concentration.

Results: A total of 34 (4.3%) of 791 women developed preeclampsia. Women with an 8‐isoprostane concentration ≥75th percentile at enrollment were more likely to develop preeclampsia compared to women with an 8‐isoprostane concentration <75th percentile (38.2% versus 24.4%, respectively; P = 0.07; OR: 1.91; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.94 to 3.90). Among women with moderate/severe periodontal disease, an elevated 8‐isoprostane concentration (≥75th percentile) did not significantly increase the likelihood for preeclampsia (adjusted OR: 2.08; 95% CI: 0.65 to 6.60).

Conclusions: Women with oxidative stress early in pregnancy, as measured by an 8‐isoprostane concentration ≥75th percentile, were at an increased risk for developing preeclampsia. The presence of periodontal disease did not appear to modify this risk.
Antimicrobial Susceptibility of Moxifloxacin Against Gram‐Negative Enteric Rods From Colombian Patients With Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Ardila Carlos M. , Fernández Natalia , Guzmán Isabel C.
Published: February 2010

Background: Gram‐negative enteric rods were associated with periodontal diseases in several populations. The association between enteric and putative periodontal pathogens has received little attention in the literature. The present investigation determined the occurrence and in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility of isolates of Gram‐negative enteric rods from Colombian patients with chronic periodontitis.

Methods: Clinical parameters and the in vitro antimicrobial sensitivity of isolates of Gram‐negative enteric rods were examined in 76 patients with chronic periodontitis in Medellin, Colombia. Subgingival samples were processed using culture and biochemical tests for the detection of periodontal and superinfecting pathogens. Selected colonies of Gram‐negative enteric rods from pure cultures were used to test the susceptibility to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, ciprofloxacin, and moxifloxacin. Chi‐square and Mann‐Whitney tests were used to determine differences in clinical variables versus the presence or absence of Gram‐negative enteric rods.

Results: Klebsiella pneumoniae was found in 12 patients, Pseudomonas aeruginosa was found in four patients, and three other species were recovered with a lower prevalence. Men (38.75%) tended to harbor more of the studied organisms than women (17.7%) (P = 0.04). Gram‐negative enteric rods in periodontal pockets correlated positively with the presence of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans), Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Prevotella intermedia/nigrescens (respectively, r = 0.66, 0.31, and 0.32; P <0.001). All superinfecting organisms demonstrated a high susceptibility to moxifloxacin and ciprofloxacin but exhibited a variable susceptibility to amoxicillin/clavulanic acid.

Conclusions: This study found high levels of Gram‐negative enteric rods in patients with chronic periodontitis. Moxifloxacin and ciprofloxacin appeared capable of eradicating these organisms from periodontal pockets. Its good activity against Gram‐negative enteric rods and periodontopathogens suggests the potential use of moxifloxacin as an adjunctive antibiotic in the treatment of mixed periodontal infections.
Efficient degradation of MtBE and other gasoline-originated compounds by means of a biological reactor of novel conception: two case studies in Italy and the USA
Authors: Capodaglio Andrea G. , Suidan Makram , Venosa Albert D. , Callegari Arianna
Published: February 2010

The presence of MtBE in groundwaters, due to its past use as an oxygenate additive to “green” gasoline, poses potential threats to human health as a possible carcinogen. As its chemical properties render it very mobile and poorly treatable by means of bioremediation, chemical oxidation, stripping, or carbon adsorption, a new, ex-situ treatment process was recently developed by the US EPA and the University of Cincinnati. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of this pump-and-treat technology in actual contaminated groundwater plumes in the field in two different conditions. The technology based on the combination of aerobic degradation and a special filtration medium is simple to operate, easily meets the challenge of producing a highly polished effluent in a cost-effective fashion, compared to other processes.
Inhibitory effects of golden thread (Coptis chinensis) and berberine on Microcystis aeruginosa
Authors: Zhang Shulin , Zhang Bo , Xing Kezhi , Zhang Xiumei , Tian Xiuping , Dai Wei
Published: February 2010

The effects of 40 Chinese herbs on Microcystis aeruginosa growth were monitored spectrophotometrically. Golden thread (Coptis chinensis) exhibited the best inhibitory effects. Cell density of M. aeruginosa decreased with the increasing concentrations of golden thread and the prolongation of exposure time. Decreases in protein content, carbohydrate content, and chlorophyll a content were observed in a golden thread concentration-dependent manner after 96 h exposure. Changes in cell density, protein content, carbohydrate content, and chlorophyll a content of M. aeruginosa exposed to berberine, the main component of golden thread, were also investigated. It was observed that berberine exhibited the same inhibitory effects on M. aeruginosa. The results suggested that golden thread could inhibit M. aeruginosas growth effectively, and berberine might be the main allelochemical implementing the inhibitory effects of golden thread.
Copper removal from sludge permeate with ultrafiltration membranes using zeolite, bentonite and vermiculite as adsorbents
Authors: Malamis S. , Katsou E. , Stylianou M. , Haralambous K. J. , Loizidou M.
Published: February 2010

The aim of this work is to examine copper removal from sludge permeate with the use of low-cost minerals of Mediterranean origin combined with ultrafiltration membranes. The minerals used were zeolite (clinoptilolite), bentonite and vermiculite. Activated sludge was enriched with 0.01 N (317.7 ppm) of Cu(II). Fixed concentrations of minerals were added to sludge and the pH value was adjusted at 5.5. The mixture was agitated for 2 hours at 800 rpm at room temperature and was then filtered through a batch ultrafiltration system for 1 hour. This experiment was repeated, for comparison purposes, with sludge enriched with 0.01 N of Cu(II) with no mineral addition. The results showed that ultrafiltration membranes with no mineral addition were able to remove a significant amount of copper with removal efficiencies ranging from 59.4–78.3%. The addition of 10 g/l and 20 g/l of bentonite combined with ultrafiltration membranes resulted in removal efficiencies of 94.9% and 99.4% respectively and that of 10 g/l and 20 g/l of vermiculite in removal efficiencies of 93.8% and 96.8%, respectively. The ion exchange capacity of minerals followed the order bentonite > vermiculite > zeolite. Furthermore, membrane fouling was investigated. The addition of zeolite and bentonite reduced membrane fouling, while the addition of vermiculite did not impact on fouling. The use of low-cost minerals in combination with ultrafiltration membranes can be employed to treat industrial wastewater, resulting in a final effluent with very low copper concentrations.
Waterborne disease in Norway: emphasizing outbreaks in groundwater systems
Authors: Kvitsand Hanne M. L. , Fiksdal Liv
Published: February 2010

In this study, we compiled and examined available data on waterborne disease outbreaks (1984–2007) in Norway, with emphasis on groundwater systems. A total of 102 waterborne outbreaks and 17 243 disease cases were reported during the period 1984–2007. The proportion of outbreaks related to groundwater reflected the proportion of groundwater works in Norway (40%). The proportion of disease cases corresponded to the proportion of persons supplied by groundwater (15%). Norovirus was identified as the most important disease causing agent in groundwater systems. No clear seasonal correlation was observed for Norovirus outbreaks in groundwater, but the largest outbreaks occurred during winter season. All outbreaks of campylobacteriosis occurred during March to November, with a peak in July–September, which correlates with the occurrence of coliforms in Norwegian groundwater in bedrock wells.
Effects of ion exchange resins in different mobile ion forms on semi-aerobic landfill leachate treatment
Authors: Bashir Mohammed J. K. , Aziz Hamidi Abdul , Yusoff Mohd Suffian , Huqe A. A. M. , Mohajeri Soraya
Published: February 2010

Landfill leachate is one of the major contamination sources. In this study, the ability of synthetic ion exchange resins which carry different mobile ion for removing color, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) from stabilized leachate was investigated. The synthetic resin INDION 225 Na as a cationic exchanger and INDION FFIP MB as an anionic exchanger were used in this study. INDION 225 Na was used in hydrogen form (H+) and in sodium form (Na+), while INDION FFIP MB resin was used in hydroxide form (OH−) and in calcium form (Cl−) form. The results indicated better removal of color, COD and NH3-N by using INDION 225 Na in H+ as compared with Na+ form, while no performance differences were observed by using INDION FFIP MB in OH− or Cl− form. Applying cationic resin followed by anionic resin achieved 97, 88 and 94, percent removal of color, COD and NH3-N. The residual amounts were 160 Pt-Co, 290 mg/L and 110 mg/L of color, COD and NH3-N respectively.
Filterability of membrane bioreactor (MBR) sludge: impacts of polyelectrolytes and mixing with conventional activated sludge
Authors: Yigit Nevzat O. , Civelekoglu Gokhan , Cinar Ozer , Kitis Mehmet
Published: February 2010

The main objective of this work was to investigate the filterability of MBR sludge and its mixture with conventional activated sludge (CAS). In addition, the impacts of type and dose of various polyelectrolytes, filter type and sludge properties on the filterability of both MBR and Mixed sludges were determined. Specific cake resistance (SCR) measured by the Buchner funnel filtration test apparatus and the solids content of the resulting sludge cake were used to assess the dewaterability of tested sludges. The type of filter paper used in Buchner tests affected the results of filterability for MBR, CAS and Mixed sludges. SCR values and optimum polyelectrolyte doses increased with increasing MLSS concentrations in the MBR, which suggested that increase in MLSS concentrations accompanied by increases in EPS and SMP concentrations and a shift toward smaller particles caused poorer dewaterability of the MBR sludge. The significant differences observed among the filterability of CAS and MBR sludges suggested that MLSS alone is not a good predictor of sludge dewaterability. Combining CAS and MBR sludges at different proportions generally improved their dewaterability. Combining MBR sludges having typically high MLSS and EPS concentrations with CAS having much lower MLSS concentrations may be an option for full-scale treatment plants experiencing sludge dewaterability problems. Better filterability and higher cake dry solids were achieved with cationic polyelectrolytes compared to anionic and non-ionic ones for all sludge types tested.
A membrane bioreactor for an innovative biological nitrogen removal process
Authors: Chen W. , Sun F. Y. , Wang X. M. , Li X. Y.
Published: February 2010

A hybrid system has been developed for biological nitrogen removal through nitrification-denitrification. The system includes an aerobic tank and an anoxic tank with an intermediate sludge settler connected to a membrane bioreactor (MBR) with a submerged 0.4 μm hollow-fiber membrane module. The laboratory system has a total working volume of 6.5 L treating a glucose-based synthetic wastewater. The experimental results demonstrate that the new process is highly effective for simultaneous organic and nitrogen removal. During the stationary operation, a sludge SS (suspended solids) concentration of 6 g/L or higher can be maintained in the reactors. The system has a COD (chemical oxygen demand) loading rate of up to 2,100 mg/L-d and a total nitrogen loading rate of up to 170 mg N/L-d. More than 95% COD can be degraded, and the total nitrogen removal efficiency can be 90% or higher as the nitrogen is reduced from 100 to around 7.5 mg/L. A high quality effluent is produced with a SS of less than 1 mg/L. With the MBR, organic degradation, nitrogen removal and sludge-liquid separation can be well achieved within a short HRT of about 10 hr.
Removal of mercury from water by multi-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Tawabini B. , Al-Khaldi S. , Atieh M. , Khaled M.
Published: February 2010

The removal of mercury (Hg2 + ) ions from contaminated water using multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was investigated in this study. Results of the study showed that MWCNTs slurry was very efficient in removing as high as 1.0 mg/L of Hg2 +  from aqueous solutions via the adsorption mechanism. This removal efficiency was found to be a function of the aqueous pH level, dosage of CNTs, mixing rate, and contact time. The study showed that the Hg uptake by MWCNTs increased to 100% with an increase in pH from pH 4 to 8. The results also showed that higher dosage of MWCNTs, showed higher removal of Hg2 + . In a 50 mL water sample, 10 mg of MWCNTs was needed to remove all of the 0.1 mg/L of Hg2 +  ions. On the other hand, increasing the mixing rate from 50 to 150 rpm improved the removal efficiency. The experimental results also showed that mercury adsorption by MWCNTs follow a pseudo second-order reaction with a rate (k) of 0.018 and it is well described by the Langmuir isotherm model with maximum adsorptive capacity (qmax) of 13.16.
A comparison of the legal frameworks supporting water management in Europe and China
Authors: Yang X. , Griffiths I. M.
Published: February 2010

This paper has compared the legal frameworks supporting water management in Europe and China, with special focus on integrated river basin management (IRBM) to identify synergies and opportunities in policymaking and implementation. The research shows that China has committed to the efficient management of water resources through various policy tools during the current period. This commitment, however, has often been interrupted and distorted by politics, resulting in the neglect of socioeconomic and environmental priorities. The European legal framework supporting water management underwent a complex and lengthy development, but with the adoption of the Water Framework Directive provides a policy model on which to develop an integrated and sustainable approach to river basin management, elements of which may help to meet the demands of the emerging 21st century Chinese society on these critical natural resources.
Sustainable domestic effluent reuse via subsurface drip irrigation (SDI): alfalfa as a perennial model crop
Authors: Kazumba Shija , Gillerman Leonid , DeMalach Yoel , Oron Gideon
Published: February 2010

Scarcity of fresh high-quality water has heightened the importance of wastewater reuse primarily in dry regions together with improving its efficient use by implementing the Subsurface Drip Irrigation (SDI) method. Sustainable effluent reuse combines soil and plant aspects, along with the maintainability of the application system. In this study, field experiments were conducted for two years on the commercial farm of Revivim and Mashabay-Sade farm (RMF) southeast of the City of Beer-Sheva, Israel. The purpose was to examine the response of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) as a perennial model crop to secondary domestic effluent application by means of a SDI system as compared with conventional overhead sprinkler irrigation. Emitters were installed at different depths and spacing. Similar amounts of effluent were applied to all plots during the experimental period. The results indicated that in all SDI treatments, the alfalfa yields were 11% to 25% higher than the ones obtained under sprinkler irrigated plots, besides the one in which the drip laterals were 200 cm apart. The average Water Use Efficiency (WUE) was better in all SDI treatments in comparison with the sprinkler irrigated plots. An economic assessment reveals the dependence of the net profit on the emitters' installation geometry, combined with the return for alfalfa in the market.
Modelling waste stabilisation ponds with an extended version of ASM3
Authors: Gehring T. , Silva J. D. , Kehl O. , Castilhos A. B. , Costa R. H. R. , Uhlenhut F. , Alex J. , Horn H. , Wichern M.
Published: February 2010

In this paper an extended version of IWA's Activated Sludge Model No 3 (ASM3) was developed to simulate processes in waste stabilisation ponds (WSP). The model modifications included the integration of algae biomass and gas transfer processes for oxygen, carbon dioxide and ammonia depending on wind velocity and a simple ionic equilibrium. The model was applied to a pilot-scale WSP system operated in the city of Florianópolis (Brazil). The system was used to treat leachate from a municipal waste landfill. Mean influent concentrations to the facultative pond of 1,456 gCOD/m3 and 505 gNH4-N/m3 were measured. Experimental results indicated an ammonia nitrogen removal of 89.5% with negligible rates of nitrification but intensive ammonia stripping to the atmosphere. Measured data was used in the simulations to consider the impact of wind velocity on oxygen input of 11.1 to 14.4 gO2/(m2 d) and sun radiation on photosynthesis. Good results for pH and ammonia removal were achieved with mean stripping rates of 18.2 and 4.5 gN/(m2 d) for the facultative and maturation pond respectively. Based on measured chlorophyll a concentrations and depending on light intensity and TSS concentration it was possible to model algae concentrations.
Investigation of aerobic and anaerobic ammonium-oxidising bacteria presence in a small full-scale wastewater treatment system comprised by UASB reactor and three polishing ponds
Authors: Araujo J. C. , Correa M. M. S. , Silva E. C. , Campos A. P. , Godinho V. M. , Von Sperling M. , Chernicharo C. A. L.
Published: February 2010

This work applied PCR amplification method and Fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) with primers and probes specific for the anammox organisms and aerobic ammonia-oxidising β-Proteobacteria in order to detect these groups in different samples from a wastewater treatment system comprised by UASB reactor and three polishing (maturation) ponds in series. Seven primer pairs were used in order to detect Anammox bacteria. Positive results were obtained with three of them, suggesting that Anammox could be present in polishing pond sediments. However, Anammox bacteria were not detected by FISH, indicating that they were not present in sediment samples, or they could be present but below FISH detection limit. Aerobic ammonia- and nitrite-oxidising bacteria were verified in water column samples through Most Probable Number (MPN) analysis, but they were not detected in sediment samples by FISH. Ammonia removal efficiencies occurred systematically along the ponds (24, 32, and 34% for polishing pond 1, 2, and 3, respectively) but the major reaction responsible for this removal is still unclear. Some nitrification might have occurred in water samples because some nitrifying bacteria were present. Also Anammox reaction might have occurred because Anammox genes were detected in the sediments, but probably this reaction was too low to be noticed. It is important also to consider that some of the ammonia removal observed might be related to NH3 stripping, associated with the pH increase resulting from the intensive photosynthetic activity in the ponds (mechanism under investigation). Therefore, it can be concluded that more than one mechanism (or reaction) might be involved in the ammonia removal in the polishing ponds investigated in this study.
Modelling of Physico-Chemical Phenomena between Gas inside a Bubble and Liquid Metal during Injection of Oxidant Gas
Authors: Wang Haijuan , Viswanathan Nurni N , Ballal N B , Seetharaman Seshadri
Published: February 2010

Gas liquid reactors are extensively used in many metallurgical processes involving the refining of liquid metals. In these processes, reactions leading to the oxidation of various solutes in liquid metal often compete with each other, which ultimately determine the liquid metal composition. In the present paper, a model has been proposed to simulate the evolution of solute contents in a metallic melt considering mass transfer of solutes in the melt in the vicinity of the bubble, equilibrium at the gas-metal interface and gas composition evolution in the bubble during its ascent through the melt. The composition of solutes at the metal-gas interface in principle can be altered by changing the injected gas composition.The model was applied to the case of oxygen injection through a lance into liquid steel-containing C and Cr, aiming sufficient decarburization without much oxidation of Cr to the slag. The Cr loss to the slag by oxidation is generally much more than that expected based on equilibrium thermodynamics applied to the bulk metal and gas. The actual Cr loss, as shown by the present model, is determined by the composition of solutes at the metal-gas interface rather than in the bulk. The effect of change of the partial pressure of oxygen in the bubble by replacing oxygen by carbon dioxide in the injected gas and the corresponding evolution of C and Cr contents in the melt was simulated. Some preliminary experiments were conducted to validate the model predictions. The frame work of the model is generic and can be extended to many gas-liquid metal reactors in liquid metal processing.
Simulation and Optimization of Biodiesel Production by Soybean Oil Transesterification in Non-Ideal Continuous Stirred-Tank Reactor
Authors: Silva Giovanilton Ferreira , Castro Marcio Silva , Silva Jouciane Sousa , Mendes Jocélia Sousa , Ferreira Andrea Lopes de Oliveira
Published: February 2010

This research examines the transesterification reaction of soybean oil with methanol in order to model and simulate a non-ideal continuous stirred-tank reactor. A mathematical model has been developed for the reactor. The biodiesel production process was optimized by application of factorial design 25 and response surface methodology. Factorial design and response surface analysis were combined with modeling and simulation to determine the operating conditions that maximize biodiesel production and minimize reactor volume. The optimum results obtained were conversion (0.95), molar ratio alcohol/oil (6:1), temperature (60.5 oC), ? (0.75), bypass (0.10) and reactor volume (1,500 L).
Full-Length Adiponectin Attenuates Insulin Signaling and Inhibits Insulin-Stimulated Amino Acid Transport in Human Primary Trophoblast Cells
Authors: Jones Helen N. , Jansson Thomas , Powell Theresa L.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

Maternal adiponectin levels are reduced and placental nutrient transporters are upregulated in obesity and gestational diabetes mellitus; however, the effects of adiponectin on placental function are unknown. We hypothesized that adiponectin regulates placental amino acid transport.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Human primary trophoblast cells were cultured and incubated with globular adiponectin (gAd) or full-length adiponectin (fAd) alone or in combination with insulin. System A and L amino acid transport and SNAT1, SNAT2, and SNAT4 isoform expression was measured. The activity of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase–AKT, and peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-α (PPARα) signaling pathways was determined.

RESULTS

In the absence of insulin, gAd stimulated AMPK Thr172 phosphorylation, SNAT2 protein expression, and system A activity. This effect appeared to be mediated by interleukin-6 release and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling because gAd failed to stimulate system A in cells in which STAT3 had been silenced using small interfering RNA. fAd alone had no effect on system A activity or SNAT expression. Insulin increased AKT and insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) phosphorylation, system A activity, and SNAT2 expression. When combined with insulin, gAd did not affect system A activity or SNAT expression. In contrast, fAd abolished insulin-stimulated AKT Thr308 and IRS-1 Tyr612 phosphorylation, system A activity, and SNAT2 expression. Furthermore, fAd increased PPARα expression and PPARα (Ser21) phosphorylation.

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast to the insulin-sensitizing actions of adiponectin in liver and muscle reported in the literature, fAd attenuates insulin signaling in primary human trophoblast cells. As a result, fAd inhibits insulin-stimulated amino acid transport, which may have important implications for placental nutrient transport and fetal growth in pregnancy complications associated with altered maternal adiponectin levels.
Downregulation of Adipose Glutathione S-Transferase A4 Leads to Increased Protein Carbonylation, Oxidative Stress, and Mitochondrial Dysfunction
Authors: Curtis Jessica M. , Grimsrud Paul A. , Wright Wendy S. , Xu Xin , Foncea Rocio E. , Graham David W. , Brestoff Jonathan R. , Wiczer Brian M. , Ilkayeva Olga , Cianflone Katherine , Muoio Deborah E. , Arriaga Edgar A. , Bernlohr David A.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

Peripheral insulin resistance is linked to an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading in part to the production of reactive lipid aldehydes that modify the side chains of protein amino acids in a reaction termed protein carbonylation. The primary enzymatic method for lipid aldehyde detoxification is via glutathione S-transferase A4 (GSTA4) dependent glutathionylation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the expression of GSTA4 and the role(s) of protein carbonylation in adipocyte function.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

GSTA4-silenced 3T3-L1 adipocytes and GSTA4-null mice were evaluated for metabolic processes, mitochondrial function, and reactive oxygen species production. GSTA4 expression in human obesity was evaluated using microarray analysis.

RESULTS

GSTA4 expression is selectively downregulated in adipose tissue of obese insulin-resistant C57BL/6J mice and in human obesity-linked insulin resistance. Tumor necrosis factor-α treatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes decreased GSTA4 expression, and silencing GSTA4 mRNA in cultured adipocytes resulted in increased protein carbonylation, increased mitochondrial ROS, dysfunctional state 3 respiration, and altered glucose transport and lipolysis. Mitochondrial function in adipocytes of lean or obese GSTA4-null mice was significantly compromised compared with wild-type controls and was accompanied by an increase in superoxide anion.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that downregulation of GSTA4 in adipose tissue leads to increased protein carbonylation, ROS production, and mitochondrial dysfunction and may contribute to the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.
The Glucagonostatic and Insulinotropic Effects of Glucagon-Like Peptide 1 Contribute Equally to Its Glucose-Lowering Action
Authors: Hare Kristine J. , Vilsbøll Tina , Asmar Meena , Deacon Carolyn F. , Knop Filip K. , Holst Jens J.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) exerts beneficial antidiabetic actions via effects on pancreatic β- and α-cells. Previous studies have focused on the improvements in β-cell function, while the inhibition of α-cell secretion has received less attention. The aim of this research was to quantify the glucagonostatic contribution to the glucose-lowering effect of GLP-1 infusions in patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Ten male patients with well-regulated type 2 diabetes (A1C 6.9 ± 0.8%, age 56 ± 10 years, BMI 31 ± 3 kg/m2 [means ± SD]) were subjected to five 120-min glucose clamps at fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels. On day 1, GLP-1 was infused to stimulate endogenous insulin release and suppress endogenous glucagon. On days 2–5, pancreatic endocrine clamps were performed using somatostatin infusions of somatostatin and/or selective replacement of insulin and glucagon; day 2, GLP-1 plus basal insulin and glucagon (no glucagon suppression or insulin stimulation); day 3, basal insulin only (glucagon deficiency); day 4, basal glucagon and stimulated insulin; and day 5, stimulated insulin. The basal plasma glucagon levels were chosen to simulate portal glucagon levels.

RESULTS

Peptide infusions produced the desired hormone levels. The amount of glucose required to clamp FPG was 24.5 ± 4.1 (day 1), 0.3 ± 0.2 (day 2), 10.6 ± 1.1 (day 3), 11.5 ± 2.7 (day 4), and 24.5 ± 2.6 g (day 5) (day 2 was lower than days 3 and 4, which were both similar and lower than days 1 and 5).

CONCLUSIONS

We concluded that insulin stimulation (day 4) and glucagon inhibition (day 3) contribute equally to the effect of GLP-1 on glucose turnover in patients with type 2 diabetes, and these changes explain the glucose-lowering effect of GLP-1 (day 5 vs. day 1).
An Association Between Subclinical Hypothyroidism and Sight-Threatening Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: Yang Jin-Kui , Liu Wei , Shi Jing , Li Yi-Bing
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

To determine the relationship between subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in type 2 diabetic patients.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 1,170 type 2 diabetic patients were screened for thyroid function. There were 127 type 2 diabetic patients with SCH and 200 randomly selected euthyroid type 2 diabetic patients selected. Those with more severe than moderate nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy were classified as having sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy (STDR).

RESULTS

The trend for severe retinopathy was significantly higher in the SCH group than in the euthyroid group (χ2 = 20.43, P = 0.000). SCH was associated with greater prevalence of diabetic retinopathy, especially STDR [odds ratio (95% CI): 4.15 (2.17–7.96), P = 0.000] after an adjustment for age, sex, duration of diabetes, A1C, BMI, hypertension, and LDL cholesterol. Even euthyroid patients with thyroid-stimulating hormone levels between 2.0 and <4.0 μIU/ml had a higher rate of STDR then those between 0.4 and <2.0 μIU/ml (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

Type 2 diabetic patients with SCH are associated with an increased risk of STDR.
Effect of Treatment of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on Obesity in the Next Generation
Authors: Gillman Matthew W. , Oakey Helena , Baghurst Peter A. , Volkmer Robert E. , Robinson Jeffrey S. , Crowther Caroline A.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) may cause obesity in the offspring. The objective was to assess the effect of treatment for mild GDM on the BMI of 4- to 5-year-old children.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants were 199 mothers who participated in a randomized controlled trial of the treatment of mild GDM during pregnancy and their children. Trained nurses measured the height and weight of the children at preschool visits in a state-wide surveillance program in the state of South Australia. The main outcome measure was age- and sex-specific BMI Z score based on standards of the International Obesity Task Force.

RESULTS

At birth, prevalence of macrosomia (birth weight ≥4,000 g) was 5.3% among the 94 children whose mothers were in the intervention group, and 21.9% among the 105 children in the routine care control group. At 4- to 5-years-old, mean (SD) BMI Z score was 0.49 (1.20) in intervention children and 0.41 (1.40) among controls. The difference between treatment groups was 0.08 (95% CI −0.29 to 0.44), an estimate minimally changed by adjustment for maternal race, parity, age, and socio-economic index (0.08 [−0.29 to 0.45]). Evaluating BMI ≥85th percentile rather than continuous BMI Z score gave similarly null results.

CONCLUSIONS

Although treatment of GDM substantially reduced macrosomia at birth, it did not result in a change in BMI at age 4- to 5-years-old.
MD-Logic Artificial Pancreas System
Authors: Atlas Eran , Nimri Revital , Miller Shahar , Grunberg Eli A. , Phillip Moshe
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

Current state-of-the-art artificial pancreas systems are either based on traditional linear control theory or rely on mathematical models of glucose-insulin dynamics. Blood glucose control using these methods is limited due to the complexity of the biological system. The aim of this study was to describe the principles and clinical performance of the novel MD-Logic Artificial Pancreas (MDLAP) System.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The MDLAP applies fuzzy logic theory to imitate lines of reasoning of diabetes caregivers. It uses a combination of control-to-range and control-to-target strategies to automatically regulate individual glucose levels. Feasibility clinical studies were conducted in seven adults with type 1 diabetes (aged 19–30 years, mean diabetes duration 10 ± 4 years, mean A1C 6.6 ± 0.7%). All underwent 14 full, closed-loop control sessions of 8 h (fasting and meal challenge conditions) and 24 h.

RESULTS

The mean peak postprandial (overall sessions) glucose level was 224 ± 22 mg/dl. Postprandial glucose levels returned to <180 mg/dl within 2.6 ± 0.6 h and remained stable in the normal range for at least 1 h. During 24-h closed-loop control, 73% of the sensor values ranged between 70 and 180 mg/dl, 27% were >180 mg/dl, and none were <70 mg/dl. There were no events of symptomatic hypoglycemia during any of the trials.

CONCLUSIONS

The MDLAP system is a promising tool for individualized glucose control in patients with type 1 diabetes. It is designed to minimize high glucose peaks while preventing hypoglycemia. Further studies are planned in the broad population under daily-life conditions.
A High-Protein Diet With Resistance Exercise Training Improves Weight Loss and Body Composition in Overweight and Obese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Wycherley Thomas P. , Noakes Manny , Clifton Peter M. , Cleanthous Xenia , Keogh Jennifer B. , Brinkworth Grant D.
Published: February 2010

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of two low-fat hypocaloric diets differing in the carbohydrate-to-protein ratio, with and without resistance exercise training (RT), on weight loss, body composition, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk outcomes in overweight/obese patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 83 men and women with type 2 diabetes (aged 56.1 ± 7.5 years, BMI 35.4 ± 4.6 kg/m2) were randomly assigned to an isocaloric, energy-restricted diet (female subjects 6 MJ/day, male subjects 7 MJ/day) of either standard carbohydrate (CON; carbohydrate:protein:fat 53:19:26) or high protein (HP; 43:33:22), with or without supervised RT (3 days/week) for 16 weeks. Body weight and composition, waist circumference (WC), and cardiometabolic risk markers were assessed.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine participants completed the study. There was a significant group effect (P ≤ 0.04) for body weight, fat mass, and WC with the greatest reductions occuring in HP+RT (weight [CON: −8.6 ± 4.6 kg, HP: −9.0 ± 4.8 kg, CON+RT: −10.5 ± 5.1 kg, HP+RT: −13.8 ± 6.0 kg], fat mass [CON: −6.4 ± 3.4 kg, HP: −6.7 ± 4.0 kg, CON+RT: −7.9 ± 3.7 kg, HP+RT: −11.1 ± 3.7 kg], and WC [CON: −8.2 ± 4.6 cm, HP: −8.9 ± 3.9 cm, CON+RT: −11.3 ± 4.6 cm, HP+RT: −13.7 ± 4.6 cm]). There was an overall reduction (P < 0.001) in fat-free mass (−2.0 ± 2.3 kg), blood pressure (−15/8 ± 10/6 mmHg), glucose (−2.1 ± 2.2 mmol/l), insulin (−4.7 ± 5.4 mU/l), A1C (−1.25 ± 0.94%), triglycerides (−0.47 ± 0.81 mmol/l), total cholesterol (−0.67 ± 0.69 mmol/l), and LDL cholesterol (−0.37 ± 0.53 mmol/l), with no difference between groups (P ≥ 0.17).

CONCLUSIONS

An energy-restricted HP diet combined with RT achieved greater weight loss and more favorable changes in body composition. All treatments had similar improvements in glycemic control and CVD risk markers.