bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presence of autoimmune disease affects not only risk but also survival in patients with B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Kleinstern Geffen , Averbuch Mor , Abu Seir Rania , Perlman Riki , Ben Yehuda Dina , Paltiel Ora
Published: February 2018

Although autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are known to predispose to non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), their association with NHL prognosis has rarely been investigated. We examined associations between autoimmunity and B‐cell NHL onset by comparing AID history (determined by self‐report and medication review and supplemented by chart review where possible) among 435 adult B‐NHL patients in Hadassah‐Hebrew University Medical Center, diagnosed 2009‐2014, and 414 age‐and‐sex frequency‐matched controls. We examined AIDs as a whole, B‐ and T‐cell–mediated AIDs, and autoimmune thyroid diseases. Among cases, we used Kaplan‐Meier and Cox regression models to assess the association of AID with overall survival and relapse‐free survival, adjusting for prognostically important patient and disease characteristics such as Ki67% staining, International Prognostic Index, rituximab treatment, and histological subgroup.

Autoimmune diseases were associated with B‐NHL (odds ratio [OR] = 1.95; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.31‐2.92), especially AIDs mediated by B‐cell activation (OR = 5.20; CI, 1.90‐14.3), which were particularly associated with marginal zone lymphoma (OR = 19.3; CI, 4.59‐80.9). We found that time to relapse for all B‐NHL patients with AIDs was significantly shorter (mean of 49.21 mo [±3.22]) than among patients without AID (mean of 59.74 mo [±1.62]), adjusted hazard ratio [HRadj] = 1.69 (CI, 1.03‐2.79). Specifically, in patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, of whom 91.8% had received rituximab, a history of B‐cell–mediated AIDs was associated with shorter relapse‐free survival and overall survival, HRadj = 8.34 (CI, 3.01‐23.1) and HRadj = 3.83 (CI, 1.20‐12.3), respectively.

Beyond confirming the well‐known association between AIDs and B‐NHL, we found that AID is an adverse prognostic factor in B‐cell lymphoma, associated with a shortened time to relapse, suggesting that there are specific therapeutic challenges in the subgroup of patients suffering from both these diseases. Further work is required to address mechanisms of resistance to standard treatment in the setting of AID‐associated B‐NHL. In the era of immunotherapy, these findings have particular relevance.
Examining morning HPA axis activity as a moderator of hostile, over‐reactive parenting on children's skills for success in school
Authors: Lipscomb Shannon T. , Becker Derek R. , Laurent Heidemarie , Neiderhiser Jenae M. , Shaw Daniel S. , Natsuaki Misaki N. , Reiss David , Fisher Philip A. , Leve Leslie D.
Published: February 2018

This study examined children's morning hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis activation as a moderator of links between hostile, over‐reactive parenting at age 4.5 years and children's skills for success in school (higher executive function and literacy and less externalizing behaviour) at age 6. Participants included 361 adoptive families. Parenting was self‐reported. HPA axis activation was measured by basal levels in morning cortisol. Executive function and literacy were assessed via standardized tasks. Externalizing behaviour was reported by teachers. Results indicated that hostile, over‐reactive parenting predicted more externalizing behaviour and lower executive functioning regardless of children's morning HPA axis activation. HPA axis activation moderated the effects of hostile, over‐reactive parenting on literacy. Among children with moderate to high morning HPA axis activation (approximately 60% of the sample), harsh parenting was linked with lower literacy; children with low morning HPA axis activation exhibited better literacy in the context of more hostile, over‐reactive parenting. Yet, across the sample, hostile, over‐reactive parenting remained in the low to moderate range, not in the high range. Findings are discussed in the context of considering not only whether children's stress system activation moderates responses to their environments but also how these processes operate for different developmental outcomes.

Highlights

This study examined children's morning HPA axis activation as a moderator of links between parenting at age 4.5 and children's skills for success in school at age 6.

Participants included 361 adoptive families, measured with cortisol, parenting, executive function, literacy, and externalizing behavior.

Children's morning cortisol levels moderated the associations between hostile, over‐reactive parenting, and emergent literacy but not externalizing behavior or executive function.
The influence of need for cognitive closure on the attention‐recognition stage of preventive coping
Authors: Wang Jiaying , Gan Yiqun
Published: February 2018

The current study explored the influence of need for cognitive closure (NFCC) on preventive coping via its effects on the attention‐recognition stage and sought to determine whether this influence was moderated by individuals' existing knowledge. An experiment involving 90 university students used the vignette‐reading paradigm to explore the relationships between NFCC, attention and preventive coping behaviour. The results indicated that when preventive coping situations were consistent with participants' previous knowledge, people with high, relative to low, NFCC were more inclined to use preventive coping strategies. As a stage of preventive coping, gaining awareness of potential stressors mediated the relationship between NFCC and preventive coping. However, when coping situations were inconsistent with participants' knowledge, the relationship between NFCC and preventive coping was non‐significant.
Evaluation of Procedures for the Determination of Zinc
Authors: O'Connor John T. , Renn Charles E.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the selection and evaluation of the methods most suitable for sampling and determining zinc in natural waters. The analytic procedures discussed in this article are applicable to problems in radiobiology, zinc ore tracing, plant nutrition, or the equilibria that apply to normal zinc in natural waters. A brief discussion is provided of each of the following techniques: activation analysis; polarographic technique; zincon compleximetric method (colorimetric); and, dithizone compleximetric method (colorimetric).
Instrumentation for Monitoring Water Quality in Reservoirs
Authors: Weiss Charles M. , Oglesby Ray T.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses developments in instrumentation for precision sampling of water quality parameters, such as temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO), combined with techniques for rapid sampling, transmission, and analysis of the data that will provide new methods for selection of water of optimum quality from impounding reservoirs. The apparent vertical oscillation of the water mass at the depth of maximum temperature change per unit depth has been observed both in fresh and marine waters. The problem was whether this vertical oscillation at the boundary layer permits transfer of materials from the upper to the lower waters or vice versa; that is, whether it is a real mixing mechanism or just an apparent one. Methodology and instrumentation is presented, along with transmitter function, receiver function, recording techniques, continuous recording of oxygen.
The More Things Change …
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr compares two quotes from the 1940s with today's concerns on the same subject, safeguarding water supplies from foreign threats as a global war challenged the nation. He discusses AWWA's role in disseminating critical information quickly and immediately developing comprehensive training programs to reach as many people as possible.
River's Condition After Dam Washout Allowed as Baseline for Stream Alteration
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

The Supreme Court of Vermont has determined that a water resources board can use the condition of a river after a dam had washed out as its baseline for comparison in determining a proposed stream alteration application.
Mythology
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr disagrees with the conclusions of two reports, “Road Map for National Security ‐ Imperative for Change” and “What's on Tap? Grading Drinking Water in U.S. Cities.” The first report concludes that the US drinking water supply is still “vulnerable to mass disruption” for two reasons ‐ publicly owned and operated water utilities are “slow to adopt new technologies and protocols,” and “legal liability issues have made the routine monitoring of public water supplies for dangerous contaminants the exception rather than the rule.” Hoffbuhr disagrees with these statements and argues that utility personnel are doing what they have always done, making effective use of the technology they have to provide an indication of possible system contamination. The second report found that, even with regulation compliance, the water in four California cities was found to have “significant public health risks” because of a lack of source protection, infrastructure deterioration, and the use of outdated technology. Hoffbuhr also disagrees with this and states that drinking water is safer and more secure than it has ever been.
Global leaders agree on safe water action agenda
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the 2002 United Nations World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) and the 2002 Stockholm Water Symposium. Building on the “Agenda 21” international development objectives agreed on 10 years ago at the UN Conference on Environment and Development in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, the WSSD saw 9,000 delegates from almost 200 nations find common ground on a global declaration and implementation plan for securing resources essential for economic and community development among the poorest people on the planet in a manner that ensures long‐term ecosystem viability.
Washington's Certified Operator Requirements Pose Dilemma for Satellite Management Agencies
Authors: Morgan Mark
Published: February 2018

This article describes how an influx of small water systems into Washington's satellite management system has presented Satellite Management Agencies (SMAs) in the state with dilemmas in the areas of cost, labor, and control.
Water 101: MTBE Primer
Authors: McClure Andy
Published: February 2018

This article briefly outlines the controversy over the risks of methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) and its continued use, and details the efforts at treatment of MTBE‐contaminated waters using activated carbon. Characterization methods of activated carbon are discussed along with adsorption kinetics. Simple guidelines are given to optimize the carbon usage and allow for more economical operation.
Field‐testing of infrastructure for asset evaluation
Authors: Canning Michael E.
Published: February 2018

This report addresses several methods for a municipality to determine the actual condition of its water infrastructure assets, especially the elements of the distribution system, by field‐testing. Regular and systematic field‐testing of facilities will yield important information for all aspects of the asset evaluation and management process. Use of these data by computer software such as hydraulic modeling and geographic information system (GIS) programs is also discussed. By gaining an increasing knowledge of actual infrastructure conditions, the asset manager will be better able to construct a management plan for the future, including whether to spend money on maintenance or new investment to sustain or improve these conditions.
Deleterious effects of inorganic compounds DURING THERMAL REGENERATION OF GAC: A Review
Authors: Lambert Steven D. , Miguel Guillermo San , Graham Nigel J.D.
Published: February 2018

Granular activated carbon (GAC) is used extensively to remove organic micropollutants during the treatment of potable waters. Once exhausted, its adsorption capacity is normally restored by thermal regeneration and the GAC is reused. However, substantial amounts of inorganic compounds accumulate on GAC filter media; this is important because many metal species catalyze the reactions that occur during the thermal regeneration of spent GAC adsorbents. These metals may consequently cause a deterioration of the adsorbent's porous characteristics, as well as high pH, high dissolved‐metal concentrations, and high chlorine demand in treated waters. By gradually accumulating over the GAC surface, they also potentially interfere with the adsorption and microbial support capabilities of regenerated GAC media. This article reviews the process of thermal GAC regeneration and the effects that may occur as a result of adsorbed inorganic compounds.
Evaluation of membrane filtration for Los Angeles' open reservoirs
Authors: Karimi Ali A. , Adham Samer , Tu Shih‐Chieh
Published: February 2018

Four hollow‐fiber membrane filtration systems approved by the California Department of Health Services were pilot‐tested for full‐scale applications at open distribution reservoirs within the city of Los Angeles, Calif. Performance of each membrane system was assessed, based on its operational flux and degree of water recovery. When operated according to the manufacturers' operating criteria, all systems demonstrated acceptable and comparable performance. On the basis of the results of the pilot testing, a microfiltration system was selected for the full‐scale design of plants ranging in capacity from 6 to 10 mgd (23 to 38 ML/d).
Absenteeism survey points out need for changes in human resources programs
Authors: Parmelee Mary A.
Published: February 2018

This article reports on a survey of American workers that discovered they were more likely to use “sick time” for personal or family needs rather than actual illness, pointing out the need for work‐life and absence‐control programs that recognize changing workforce demographics and values. The article reports statistics on absenteeism and discusses examples of effective work‐life programs for reducing unscheduled absences.
USEPA aiming to avoid early implementation of Stage 2 D/DBPR
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses how water suppliers could find themselves with less time to comply with the forthcoming Stage 2 Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts Rule (D/DBPR) standards under options being considered by the US Environmental Protection Agency for conducting initial distribution system evaluation (IDSE) monitoring to locate high‐DBP sites for ultimate compliance monitoring purposes.
Installing Wireless Antennas on Water Tanks—Remember, It's Your Tank, Not Their Tower
Authors: Gabin Ira
Published: February 2018

This article describes how allowing wireless communications companies to install their antennas on water storage tanks has provided many utilities with significant additional revenue. However, utilities considering this option should take specific steps to avoid problems associated with improperly installed antennas.
San Diego County completes first phase of $827 million Emergency Storage Project
Authors: Brock Patricia A. , Tennyson Patricia
Published: February 2018

This paper describes San Diego County's Emergency Storage Project and the completion of the first phase of building the Olivenhain Dam. The paper discusses the key component of public involvement to the success of the project and how the outreach program addressed a variety of key issues, including the project's purpose and need, funding, and economic analysis and environmental effects especially for those living near potential reservoir sites.
Groundwater storage—The Western Experience
Authors: Jones Jeanine
Published: February 2018

Water suppliers may be familiar with small‐scale aquifer storage and recovery projects but typically are unaware of the potential for using large‐scale groundwater storage projects as an alternative to construction of new surface water supply reservoirs. Jones examines the demonstrated feasibility of implementing large‐scale groundwater storage projects, and the infrastructure and institutional arrangements needed for their implementation. Large‐scale groundwater storage projects have been successfully implemented in California. Access to preexisting regional water conveyance infrastructure providing a source of imported water is a key factor enabling many of these projects. Among other western states, only Arizona and Nevada now have projects similar in scope to those in California. However, state financial assistance provided to local agencies implementing groundwater storage projects is encouraging development of new projects. By giving consideration to groundwater storage alternatives in long‐range master planning, utilities can preserve their ability to implement such projects in the future.
Value
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his monthly column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the importance of the value of water as opposed to the cost of water. He stresses the myriad benefits we receive from water such as the value of being healthy so we can be productive, the value of a consistent supply of safe water, and the worth of a village and lives made possible by safe drinking water. He states that instead of focusing on costs of supplying water and water rates, it would be more beneficial to stress the value and the multitude of benefits we receive from water.
Performance‐based approach for Groundwater Systems
Authors: Davis Bill
Published: February 2018

This article suggests a more objective approach to evaluating the condition of a water system ‐ including source, treatment, and distribution ‐ based on performance data. Most groundwater systems are currently evaluated by managers and regulators through a combination of compliance monitoring and sanitary survey inspections. However, field experience has demonstrated types of monitoring that can be performed at groundwater systems to comprehensively evaluate their ability to resist microbiological contamination. Utility managers will benefit from this information because it shows how process‐control‐type monitoring, compared with nonregulatory goals, can help improve utilities' ability to prevent contamination. It is hoped that the information provided will encourage groundwater utilities to begin collecting and analyzing performance data and lead to a better understanding of how each barrier can be improved.
How particles affect UV light in the UV Disinfection of Unfiltered Drinking Water
Authors: Christensen Jason , Linden Karl G.
Published: February 2018

This study assessed the impact of suspended particles on both ultraviolet (UV) dose transmission and spectrophotometric absorbance measurement for unfiltered raw water with turbidity up to 10 ntu. Results from bench‐scale collimated beam experiments indicated that a low percentage of total incident UV light was attenuated by particles at 5 ntu turbidity. However, at a set applied UV dose, when particles were added to achieve turbidity from 1 to 10 ntu, the average dose in the collimated beam reactor decreased from 5 to 33%, respectively. This suggests that spikes in particles entering a UV reactor, if not adjusted and accounted for, may compromise lethal delivery of UV energy. UV absorbance coefficients, measured using direct and integrating sphere spectroscopy (which accounts for scattering effects by particles) were significantly different, suggesting that suspended particles in unfiltered water both absorb and scatter UV light. When absorbance, measured using the direct method, was used to model the average irradiance in a UV reactor, the average UV irradiance was underestimated by 3 to 20% at turbidity of 3 to 10 ntu, respectively, compared with irradiance calculations made using integrating sphere absorbance measurements. This analysis suggests that UV systems designed based on direct absorbance measurements of unfiltered waters with turbidity above 3 ntu may be overly conservative.
Membrane Processes Committee focuses on practical application
Authors: Lozier James
Published: February 2018

This article describes the AWWA Membrane Processes Committee (MPC) and its focus on the practical application of membrane processes for both drinking water and water reuse. The MPC supports the Water Quality and Technology Division's mission and complements the functions of the Research Division's Membrane Technology Research Committee. Members of the MPC represent various geographic regions of North America, as well as the varied types of AWWA members such as utilities, consulting firms, government agencies, academic institutions, and manufacturing companies.
Centuries
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the advances in technology of the 20th century and how we are experiencing the effects of those advances now in the 21st century. In particular, he discusses the effects of global warming on the earth's environment and how this will seriously effect the water profession.
Organisms in Water Committee Keeps AWWA Members Ahead of the Curve on Pathogens of Concern
Authors: Marshall Marilyn
Published: February 2018

The goal of the AWWA Organisms in Water Committee (OIW) is to reduce the numbers of microorganisms in drinking water to a level that prevents disease in the case of pathogens and to ensure aesthetically pleasing water in the case of nuisance organisms. An additional treatment goal is stabilization of the water so that the regrowth of microorganisms, which can contribute to compliance violations and taste and odor problems, is controlled. The article discusses the variety of media it uses to achieve its mission and lists the committee members with their affiliation and email address.
Electronic Bill Presentment and Payment: An Efficient Opportunity for Utilities and Consumers
Authors: Murphy Paul A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses electronic bill payment and presentment (EBPP) and the opportunity it presents for utilities to provide better customer service as well as reduce costs to customers and to the utility itself. The article discusses the three components of the EBPP process: service initiation, or enrollment into the service; presenting the bill or invoice; and, making the payment. The article discusses important considerations when implementing the system such as different processing models to choose from to accommodate various biller and customer needs, technology and standards for EBPP, understanding the online customer (consumers and businesses), marketing EBPP to the customer, and addressing security issues.
USEPA touts DWSRF as SDWA centerpiece
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the US Environmental Protection Agency's (USEPA's) five‐year report to congress on the Drinking Water Financing Program established in 1996. Addressing implementation progress since the first capitalization grants were awarded to states in 1997 through June 30, 2001, the 108‐page report and accompanying appendices describe and assess how 50 states and Puerto Rico have established and operated their individual Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) programs. This article includes two tables that quantify the nationwide performance of the variety of state DWSRF program structures and functions that so far have delivered nearly three fourths of available funds mostly to smaller community water systems for treatment and transmission/distribution improvements that have enhanced compliance with Safe Drinking Water Act requirements and directly improved public health. The article goes on to discuss other Congressional funding efforts being implemented by utilities.
Rural boreholes and wells in Africa —economics of construction in hard rock terraina
Authors: Smith Craig C.
Published: February 2018

Africa's unmet needs in water supply are enormous and widespread, especially in rural settings. This article looks at a basic type of water supply: low‐yielding point sources tapping groundwater through boreholes and hand‐dug wells. Data were obtained from three projects in a high‐rainfall nation in West Africa and one project in a country in the arid Horn of Africa. The four projects comprised a total of 603 water points (the collective term for boreholes and dug wells tapping groundwater). Analysis of detailed financial and engineering data from both productive and unproductive water points helped pinpoint a principal problem in establishing even basic water supplies, i.e., their low success rate and resulting high costs. Simple engineering, economic, and human guidelines are suggested to reduce the costs of rural boreholes and wells and to improve success rates. The study suggests that rural water points should cost approximately $200/m ($61/ft). Although evidence from several other African nations indicates that prices are often considerably higher, the author attributes much of this increase to the fact that central authorities, rather than the users themselves, assume responsibility for supply implementation and maintenance. The four projects led to the privatization of the rural water supply in the West African country and opened up the sector to competitive bidding in the Horn of Africa nation.
Organic matter quality and survival of coliforms in Low‐Nutritive Waters
Authors: Boualam Marc , Fass Sylvain , Saby Sébastien , Lahoussine Véronique , Cavard Jacques , Gatel Dominique , Mathieu Laurence
Published: February 2018

The objective of this work was to underscore the importance of the quality of dissolved organic matter (DOM) present in specific, low‐nutritive waters conveying organic fractions—of different origins from which an unknown part is likely to pass through the treatment barrier—on coliform bacteria behavior. Ten coliform bacteria species coming from drinking and river waters were inoculated into three water samples from different origins (drinking water, diluted river water after a heavy rainfall, and diluted algal culture supernatant called bloom water) conveying specific organic fractions from which an undefined part was likely to pass through the drinking water treatment process. Inoculation was done in the presence of autochthonous bacteria from the Nancy, France, drinking water supply. Assays were carried out at identical dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentrations to those of drinking water, i.e., 1.6–1.8 mg/L. Bacterial growth in the three water samples, measured by microscopic counting, was observed. Inversely, bacteria (coliforms and autochthonous heterotrophic bacteria) lost their culturability on nutritive media in less than two days in drinking water, whereas the culturability of these same bacteria was maintained in bloom and river waters for the complete duration of the test (28 days). The proportion of DOM consumed by the bacterial inoculum in the different water samples may explain this difference: 32% of DOC in bloom water, 20% in river water, and only 6% in drinking water. Identification of coliform bacteria species that survived in bloom and river waters emphasized that only four species were culturable: Citrobacter freundii, Citrobacter youngae, Klebsiella oxytoca, and Enterobacter cloacae (dominant species). These results confirm the important effect of the DOM origin on the microbiological stability in low‐nutritive waters such as drinking waters.
Implementation of Primary UV Disinfection at The Mannheim Water Treatment Plant: Procurement, Installation, and Validation Challenges
Authors: Le Patourel Guy , Smith Franklyn
Published: February 2018

On the basis of promising results from demonstration‐scale testing, the Regional Municipality of Waterloo (ROW) identified the use of ultraviolet (UV) technology for primary disinfection as the likely candidate for the Mannheim Water Treatment Plant (WTP) and initiated a comprehensive justification study to develop an appropriate basis for design for this emerging technology. This study brought together a wide range of expertise within the water industry representing both researchers and regulatory agencies. Upon completion of the justification study, a Preliminary Design Report was completed in 2001 that laid the foundation for the design of the UV system. A comprehensive discussion of the background, justification study and preliminary design can be found in Edwards et al (2002). Detailed design of the UV facility began in 2002 with the preselection of the equipment followed by detailed design of the installation. Construction of the facility began in December 2002, and commissioning was completed in June 2003. Although the preliminary design phase was detailed and thorough, additional issues and challenges arose during the implementation of this project in the design, procurement, installation, validation, and commissioning phases. These challenges reflect the emerging status of UV disinfection for full‐scale surface water treatment plants. This article highlights the implementation challenges and provides discussion and direction on the solutions adopted that could be of assistance to other professionals planning similar water treatment upgrades using UV for primary disinfection.
Enough to Go Around
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses water reuse as becoming one of the resources we use to meet future water demand. He predicts that in 10 years the amount of wastewater being reused will be six times the current level and will be used in a variety of ways. He discusses the benefits of water reuse as being a dependable, almost drought‐proof source of water that will be far less expensive to develop with fewer environmental effects, and that reuse reduces wastewater discharges to streams, estuaries, and other environmentally‐sensitive areas. He points out that public perception will be a problem to overcome, though, and that consumers are not ready for recycled water to be mixed with their drinking water.
new Arsenic standard Spurs Search for Cost‐Effective Removal Techniques
Authors: Han Binbing , Zimbron J. , Runnells T.R. , Shen Z. , Wickramasinghe S.R.
Published: February 2018

The new maximum contaminant level for arsenic in drinking water will require many water authorities to add unit operations for arsenic removal. A recent study conducted on groundwater from a small rural city in Colorado investigated removing arsenic by modified coagulation/filtration. On the basis of the results of the study, modified coagulation/filtration was proven to be a practical process for removing arsenic from groundwater. Coagulation by ferric chloride and ferric sulfate produced similar residual arsenic concentrations, although ferric sulfate gave a lower residual turbidity. Adjustment of the pH of the groundwater is likely to be necessary. A ferric ion dose of 6 mg/L and an initial pH of 6.8 gave a residual arsenic concentration of 2 μg/L or less, depending on the pore size of the membrane filter disks. These results are in agreement with previous studies conducted using carefully prepared arsenic solutions. However, the level of arsenic removal from groundwater is highly dependent on the water quality.
AMR: It's More Than Just Data Collection
Authors: Dobbie Corey , Durham Scott
Published: February 2018

This article describes how the north Texas town of McKinney installed automatic meter reading (AMR) technology in order to more efficiently manage its water distribution, reduce overhead costs, and improve meter‐reading efficiency. The article discusses how the AMR system has become a key management tool used for dispute resolution, leak detection, conservation monitoring, regulation enforcement, and documenting proper meter deployment.
Amending Predecessor's Mistake in Water Rights Claim Allowed
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

The Court of Appeals of Washington has ruled that the error of a farm owner's predecessor that mistakenly claimed a water right that was less than what his full acreage had entitled him to under the state's water rights registration act was ministerial and that the water rights claim could therefore be amended.
Leak Detection for Small Systems
Authors: Godwin Patti
Published: February 2018

This article describes how, in an era of increasingly scarce water supplies and utility funding, an ongoing water loss control program at a small system can reduce costs, save water, and provide new revenue streams associated with inaccurate metering, billing errors, and unauthorized consumption. The article also discusses the effectiveness of leak detection surveys for small water systems. Case studies are given.
Work Happens
Authors: Hoffbuhr Jack W.
Published: February 2018

In his column, AWWA Executive Director Jack Hoffbuhr discusses the changing workforce and how the workplace of the future will have a blend of generational expectations and frustrations. He presents several key factors for organizational success.
Science shines in first regulatory decisions
Authors: Scharfenaker Mark
Published: February 2018

This article discusses two regulatory decisions by the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water to revise only the existing Total Coliform Rule and to not regulate any of nine science‐strong unregulated contaminants. This article takes a brief look at USEPA's first two regulatory decisions under the relevant provisions of the seven‐year‐old 1996 Safe Drinking Water Act amendments that established this cyclical decision‐making process and what more to expect from them.
Microbial removal and integrity monitoring of ro and NF Membranes
Authors: Kitis Mehmet , Lozier Jim C. , Kim Jae‐Hong , Mi Baoxia , Mariñas Benito J.
Published: February 2018

This research investigated the integrity of reverse osmosis (RO) and nanofiltration (NF) membrane systems with respect to microbial passage using microbial (bacteriophage MS2 viruses) and nonmicrobial (Rhodamine WT [RWT] dye and fluorescent‐dyed polystyrene microspheres) surrogates. Pilot‐scale experiments were conducted with microfiltered secondary wastewater effluent and conventional process‐treated surface water. Microspheres were a more accurate predictor of MS2 removal; however, RWT showed good correlation, particularly for RO. NF and RO elements compromised via a membrane pinhole showed reduced removals for all surrogates, whereas subsequent operation of such elements increased surrogate removal (through membrane fouling). This increase was reversible by chemical cleaning for elements operated on effluent but less so for surface water. Compromising RO system integrity using cut O‐rings did not increase surrogate passage. Passage increased only when sections of the O‐rings were removed. The impact on integrity of such an O‐ring compromise was dependent on location in the RO/NF system.
Automated distribution system monitoring supports water quality, streamlines system management, and fortifies security
Authors: Schlegel Julie A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses a supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system installed by Oklahoma City Water and Wastewater Utilities. This system will collect data continuously from each panel, allowing comprehensive network surveillance 24/7 at a central location. The real‐time network data will signal and predict where and when remedial action is needed so that personnel can focus the utility's resources efficiently. Also, the utility expects that full‐time surveillance will yield significant security benefits.
Effect of Washwater Chemistry and Delayed Start on Filter Ripening
Authors: Amburgey James E. , Amirtharajah Appiah , Brouckaert Barbara M. , Spivey Neal C.
Published: February 2018

Delayed start is an operational procedure aimed at reducing the negative effect of the filter ripening sequence (FRS) on the quality of filtered water. The delayed start procedure has been evaluated under a variety of conditions and provides insights into the mechanisms behind the FRS. Experiments were conducted at both pilot and plant scales, and the comparison of these results led to the discovery of the importance of backwash water chemistry on the FRS. Polyphosphates in the backwash water were shown to negatively affect filtered water quality immediately after backwashing. Discoveries were also made that will help explain why delayed start seems to work well for some treatment plants and not for others.
Controlling Bromate Formation: During Ozonation With Chlorine and Ammonia
Authors: Neemann Jeff , Hulsey Robert , Rexing David , Wert Eric
Published: February 2018

The Stage 1 Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts Rule (D/DBPR) includes a 10 μg/L limit for bromate. For many utilities that have included ozonation in their treatment processes, compliance with the bromate standard can pose a considerable challenge if raw water supplies contain bromide at concentrations approaching 100 μg/L or higher. This challenge is accentuated if the ozonation process is designed for or modified to provide inactivation of Cryptosporidium parvum. This article describes how the Southern Nevada Water Authority (SNWA) recognized this challenge and initiated a research program to develop an optimal treatment method to minimize bromate formation when operating its ozonation facilities to achieve an internally adopted target of 2‐log (99%) Cryptosporidium inactivation. This research culminated in the issuance of a patent that has been placed in the public domain.
Evaluation of a Magnetic Ion Exchange Resin to Meet DBP Regs at the Village of Palm Springs
Authors: Hammann Douglas , Bourke Michael , Topham Cory
Published: February 2018

This article describes how the Village of Palm Springs in southeast Florida conducted a study of technologies available to reduce color and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) before disinfection so that the Main (6 mgd [23 ML/d]) and Pratt (4 mgd [15 ML/d]) water treatment plants could be brought into compliance with the Stage 1 and 2 Disinfectants/Disinfection Byproducts Rule requirements.
Strategic Business Planning: As a Water Resource Management Tool
Authors: Murphy Brian M. , Wubbena Robert L. , Thompson Gretchen L. , Graham Andrew G.
Published: February 2018

The way water utilities manage water resource issues is changing out of necessity. Today, water utilities are faced with constraints beyond those associated with water quality and delivery. Through interviews with participating utilities, the authors identified a complex set of constraints including regulations, customer expectations, and environmental, political, and financial issues. Utilities reported that balancing these constraints while developing a better product in a competitive market is forcing them to reexamine how, when, where, and why resources are developed and managed. This article presents the Strategic Business Planning Model (SBPM) that was developed to enable utilities to integrate water resource development activities both within and outside the utility. The SBPM strategically integrates water resource planning elements and facilitates implementation of a holistic resource approach. The model is an iterative, long‐term method for integrating all utility elements into a strategic business plan that organizes the internal and external intricacies and interrelationships necessary to operate in a successful, businesslike manner.
AWWA's Inorganic Contaminants Committee
Authors: Najm Issam
Published: February 2018

This article states that the mission of the Inorganic Contaminants Committee (ICC) of the Water Quality & Technology Division of AWWA is to provide AWWA members with useful information on the occurrence, identification, and removal of inorganic contaminants from drinking water supplies. The article provides a brief overview of the emerging inorganic contaminants facing the drinking water community along with the activities that are or will be undertaken by the ICC to help utilities deal with these contaminants.
Susceptibility of five strains of Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts to UV light
Authors: Clancy Jennifer L. , Marshall Marilyn M. , Hargy Thomas M. , Korich Dick G.
Published: February 2018

Previous evaluations of the effect of ultraviolet (UV) light on Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts have been limited to a single strain—the Iowa strain. This study investigated the response of five strains of C. parvum to UV. A collimated beam apparatus was used to apply controlled doses of monochromatic (254 nm) UV to oocysts of the Iowa, Moredun, Texas A&M, Maine, and Glasgow strains. Irradiation was measured using a calibrated radiometer and sensor. Inactivation was quantified through animal infectivity by inoculation of cohorts of CD‐1 neonatal mice with UV‐treated and untreated control oocysts of each strain followed by examination of intestinal sections for infection using hemotoxylin and eosin staining. A UV light dose of 10 mJ/cm2 achieved at least 4‐log10 inactivation of all strains evaluated. All five strains of C. parvum were shown to be highly susceptible to low levels of UV light.
Microspheres as Surrogates for Cryptosporidium Filtration
Authors: Emelko Monica B. , Huck Peter M.
Published: February 2018

Pilot‐scale studies were conducted to determine if polystyrene microspheres are reasonable surrogates for Cryptosporidium parvum removal by filtration. Previously reported data from a conventional pilot plant using a high coagulant dose optimized for combined total organic carbon and particle removal were contrasted with data from a pilot‐scale, in‐line filtration plant using a low coagulant dose optimized for particle removal. The removal of oocysts and microspheres was investigated during optimal operation as well as periods of process challenge and ranged from 0.5 log to >5 logs. When data over a wide range of operating conditions (and oocyst and microsphere removals) were available, approximately linear relationships were discerned (the coefficient of determination [R2] ranged from 0.74 to 0.96). Although the exact relationship between oocyst and microsphere removals by filtration was somewhat site‐specific, it was demonstrated that oocyst‐sized microspheres are a useful tool during filtration‐optimization studies and performance assessments.
Introducing the Water Treatment Plant Residuals Management Committee
Authors: Tsang Richard
Published: February 2018

This article begins by describing how management of treatment plant residuals is demanding more time, attention, and funds in capital investment for residuals processing facilities, in operation and maintenance, and in final disposal than ever before. The article lists conventional and emerging issues of residuals management and discusses developments in treatment and disposal practices. The article then describes the AWWA Water Treatment Plant Residuals Management Committee (RMC) whose focus is on residuals processing technologies and disposal issues. Its mission is to educate and share information with water utilities and members regarding residuals management issues through a variety of means.
Water Loss Management and Customer Care
Authors: Parks John
Published: February 2018

This report discusses an effort by Opelika Utilities in Opelika, Alabama, to improve meter‐reading efficiency and customer service by converting the utility to an automatic meter‐reading (AMR) system. Residential leaks were a concern and the new technology provided advanced leak detection. The article goes on to discuss how leaks dropped dramatically after the meters were installed.
Forest Service Can Restrict Water Use To Protect Endangered Species
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

The US Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has ruled that the US Forest Service (USFS) has the authority to restrict the use of water from irrigation ditches in times of low flow in order to protect certain endangered species of fish.
effect of Chloramines on Ductile‐iron Pipe Gaskets of various eslastomer compounds
Authors: Bonds Richard W.
Published: February 2018

Degradation reported from laboratory testing of elastomer sheet materials subjected to chloramines has not correlated to experience in the field for some applications. The effect of chloramines, or any other chemicals, on elastomers in potable water systems is both material‐and‐application specific. The large surface‐area‐to‐mass exposure ratio of, for example, toilet bowl flapper valves, is quite different from the small surface‐area‐to‐mass exposure ratio of ductile‐iron pipe gaskets. To investigate this, side‐by‐side tests of elastomer sheet materials and ductile‐iron pipe push‐on and mechanical joint gaskets exposed to 110 mg/L total chloramine solution were conducted. The push‐on and mechanical joint gaskets were tested in assembled joints. The tests, done over 364 days, revealed that although the majority of the elastomer sheet materials experienced significant visual degradation and large changes in mass, volume, and hardness, the ductile‐iron pipe push‐on and mechanical joint gaskets showed no visual degradation and only slight detectable chlorine penetration.
Introduction to the Organic Contaminants Control Committee
Authors: Sharpley Jason
Published: February 2018

This article focuses on the AWWA Organic Contaminant Control Committee (OCCC), whose mission is to evaluate current treatment practices and disseminate knowledge to the water industry on methods to control organic contaminants. The committee looks to regulators, industry professionals, consultants, and academia to identify organic contaminants of concern and current control practices. The OCCC is composed of water industry representatives from both the United States and Australia along with consultants, academics, and regulators. The most recent developments have included two informative websites on methyl‐tertiary‐butyl‐ether (MTBE) and endocrine disruptors and the sponsorship of special topic sessions on algal toxins and Contaminant Candidate List (CCL) organics. The committee is currently focusing its attention on metolachlor and disinfection byproducts.
North Carolina Town Fined for Inadequate Sewer Maintenance
Authors: Stiegler Mayo H.
Published: February 2018

The Court of Appeals of North Carolina has ruled that evidence was sufficient to establish that a town had failed to adequately maintain a sewer line, causing violations of water quality standards.
Consider the Big Picture When Buying Water Analysis Instrumentation
Authors: Schlegel Julie A.
Published: February 2018

This article discusses how small water systems can seek information and technical support from different sources when making a purchase of equipment or software. Vendors, membership groups, regulatory experts, remote technical support, website downloads, competitive instrument warranties, and customized equipment maintenance packages are all discussed.
“What are the five most important qualities of an effective leader?”
Authors: Basefsky Mitchell
Published: February 2018

This article discusses the opinions of four water industry professionals on what the definition of “leadership qualities” should include.