bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatores associados ao desperdício de recursos da saúde repassados pela união aos municípios auditados pela Controladoria Geral da União
Authors: Dias Lidiane Nazaré da Silva , Matias-Pereira José , Farias Manoel Raimundo Santana , Pamplona Vanessa Mayara Souza
Published: December 2013

Este estudo trata dos fatores associados aos desperdícios ativo (corrupção) e passivo (ineficiência) que ocorrem no processo de gestão pública, aqui focado nos gastos com saúde pública. Buscando chamar a atenção para a ocorrência do desperdício passivo, a pesquisa investigou a seguinte questão: quais fatores de desperdício ativo e passivo estão associados com as irregularidades na gestão dos recursos repassados pela União aos municípios brasileiros para a área de saúde no ano de 2010? As evidências empíricas foram obtidas nos relatórios de auditoria da Controladoria Geral da União (CGU) elaborados no ano de 2010 referentes a 102 municípios fiscalizados. Para a identificação do desperdício ativo foram observadas 3 variáveis e para o desperdício passivo 17 variáveis. Os dados relativos às variáveis foram submetidos a uma análise fatorial para agrupá-los em fatores associados estatisticamente com as irregularidades na gestão dos recursos destinados à saúde pública dos municípios auditados. Os resultados da pesquisa não mostraram nível adequado de significância para o desperdício ativo, enquanto que, para o desperdício passivo, evidenciaram três fatores denominados: Fator 1 Inadequabilidade Administrativa (o qual agrupou as variáveis: não pagamento de tributos, não ocorrência de contrapartida e má administração); Fator 2 Fraca Fiscalização (o qual agrupou as variáveis: inexistência ou fraca atuação do conselho e licitação fracionamento); e Fator 3 Baixo nível de Compliance (o qual agrupou as variáveis: licitação irregular e irregularidade não relacionada ao Prefeito). A principal conclusão da pesquisa relaciona-se à identificação da necessidade da implantação de mecanismos de governança no setor público, os quais poderiam reduzir o desperdício ativo e passivo.
Clinical management of caries by public and private university dental students
Authors: Tognetti Valdinéia Maria , Ferreira-Nobilo Naiara de Paula , Sousa Maria da Luz Rosário de
Published: December 2013

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to verify the clinical approach knowledge of graduate students from two colleges (public and private) concerning dental caries. MATERIAL AND METHOD:A case report containing patient general data, photos, and radiographs were presented for the students, which responded tests and a discursive question. Discursive answers were analyzed according to content analysis technique, and posteriorly dichotomized for statistical analysis. (Chi-square, p<0.05). RESULT: Response rates (n=72) were 85.71% in the public college, and 92.30% in the private college. After x-rays evaluation and considering the diverse dynamics by which both schools perform their patient care management, it was observed that less than 10% of the public college students would perform conservative procedures in primary teeth, while at least 30% of private college students would decide for conservative procedures for all cases (p<0.001). Concerning the permanent dentition, the majority of the public college students would perform "conservative" approach. "Preventative-conservative practice" was similarly observed amongst public and private college students. CONCLUSION:Both in public and in private college were similar curative e approaches (primary teeth) and preventative +conservative (permanent teeth).
The influence of tooth brushing supervision on the dental plaque index and toothbrush wear in preschool children
Authors: Wambier Letícia Maíra , Dias Gisele , Bittar Priscila , Pochapski Márcia Thaís , Wambier Denise Stadler , Chibinski Ana Cláudia Rodrigues , Santos Fábio André dos
Published: December 2013

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of tooth brushing supervision in one or more sessions on dental plaque removal and toothbrush wear. MATERIAL AND METHOD: 3- to 5-year-old children received new toothbrushes and attended a puppet theater about oral health. Forty-nine children were randomly selected and divided into 3 groups (GI=20; GII=14; GIII=14). Fones' brushing method was demonstrated to the GI and GII groups to evaluate the following: the professional direct supervision and tooth brushing training in five sessions (GI), the professional direct supervision and a one-training session (GII) and the puppet theater influence only (GIII-control group). The dental plaque index (IPL) was recorded at baseline (T0), after 24 days (T1) and after 46 days (T2) and toothbrush wear (ID) was recorded on T1 and T2. The Kruskal-Wallis test and the Friedman test (IPL), as well as the one-way ANOVA and the paired Student's t-test (ID) (p<0.05) were employed to analyze the data. RESULT: GI showed a significant difference from the others groups in T1 and T2 (p<0.01).The index of toothbrush wear increased (p<0.0001) from 24 days (0.52±0.35mm) to 46 days (0.90±0.48mm), but there was no significant association between toothbrush wear and plaque index for T1 (r=0.230-p= 0.116) as well as for T2 (r=0.226-p=0.121). CONCLUSION: The multiple sessions of professional supervision were effective to reduce the dental plaque index, which was not influenced by toothbrush wear, showing continuous oral hygiene motivation needs.
Avaliação de hábitos de higiene bucal, hábitos alimentares e pH salivar em pacientes com ausência e presença de lesões cervicais não cariosas
Authors: Figueiredo Viviane Maria Gonçalves de , Santos Rosenês Lima dos , Batista André Ulisses Dantas
Published: December 2013

OBJETIVO: Avaliar hábitos de higiene bucal, hábitos alimentares e pH salivar em pacientes com ausência e presença de lesões cervicais não cariosas. MÉTODO: Por meio de um estudo transversal, foram avaliados 88 pacientes, de ambos os sexos, feminino (63,6%) e masculino (36,4%), entre 18 e 71 anos, nos Serviços de Oclusão das cidades de João Pessoa e Campina Grande. Realizaram-se avaliações clínicas, por um único examinador calibrado, para diagnosticar a presença das lesões, a face, os grupos dentários, os hábitos de abrasão e erosão, e o pH Salivar. Utilizaram-se análises descritivas e não paramétricas (Qui-Quadrado, coeficiente ρ de Spearman e teste U de Mann-Whitney), com 5% de nível de significância e 95% de intervalo de confiança. RESULTADO: Verificou-se a prevalência de 65,90% dos pacientes com lesões e o grupo dos pré-molares foi o mais atingido pelas lesões, que estiveram frequentes na face vestibular e na maxila. O gênero não apresentou associação com a presença das lesões, enquanto que a idade foi estatisticamente significante (p<0,001) para a presença destas. O número e a direção de escovação (Fator Abrasivo) e pH Salivar não demonstraram associação com a presença das lesões, enquanto que a frequência do consumo de refrigerantes, de 1 a 7× semanais, apresentou associação positiva. CONCLUSÃO: Os pacientes com alterações oclusais apresentam um elevado número de lesões cervicais não cariosas e a frequência do consumo de refrigerantes representou associação estatística com a presença de lesões.
Percepção discente sobre a influência de estágio extramuro na formação acadêmica odontológica
Authors: Santos Karina Tonini dos , Ferreira Lorena , Batista Rony de Jesus , Bitencourt Cássia Teresa Ferrão , Araújo Ricardo Pretti , Carvalho Raquel Baroni de
Published: December 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: Os estágios extramuros buscam a integração do ensino teórico com a vivência prática como uma forma de aprendizagem, permitindo ao estudante conhecer a organização, o planejamento e a gestão dos serviços de saúde da região. OBJETIVO: Verificar, sob a ótica dos acadêmicos de Odontologia da Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), a influência que as atividades extramuros do Programa de Educação pelo Trabalho para a Saúde (PET-Saúde) exercem em sua formação acadêmica. METODOLOGIA: Estudo exploratório descritivo, com universo amostral de acadêmicos de Odontologia da UFES integrantes e ex-integrantes do PET-Saúde. Os dados foram coletados por meio de questionários semiestruturados e autoaplicados. Na análise quantitativa dos dados, foi utilizado o programa Epinfo 3.5.1. Na análise das respostas abertas, utilizou-se a técnica de análise de categorias, proposta por Bardin. RESULTADO: Dos 33 estagiários e ex-estagiários, 25 participaram do estudo. Destes, 23 consideraram entre bom e ótimo o grau de contribuição do PET-Saúde em sua formação acadêmica. Dentre as contribuições do estágio, foram relatadas: a vivência no SUS/funcionamento do SUS/ESF; o conhecimento da realidade da comunidade; a integração/vivência multiprofissional; o aprendizado clínico, e a realização de procedimentos não realizados na faculdade. CONCLUSÃO: Os acadêmicos compartilham o pensamento de que o estágio contribuiu para que eles tivessem uma formação em saúde mais humanista, integral, crítica e reflexiva, como preconizam as diretrizes curriculares.
Estratégias de promoção de saúde para crianças em idade pré-escolar do município de Patos-PB
Authors: Carvalho Theresa Hortênsia Leandro , Pinheiro Narjara Maria Sampaio , Santos José Matheus Alves dos , Costa Luciana Ellen Dantas , Queiroz Faldryene Sousa , Nóbrega Carolina Bezerra Cavalcanti
Published: December 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: A educação em saúde realizada no ambiente escolar pode favorecer o envolvimento da criança ao construir novos conhecimentos, facilitando assim a mudança de hábitos. OBJETIVO: Avaliar, em pré-escolares matriculados em escolas e creches municipais de Patos-PB, a condição de higiene bucal e a oclusão dentária, além de utilizar o Tratamento Restaurador Atraumático (ART) nas ações de saúde coletiva, para promover melhoria na saúde bucal. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: A amostra foi constituída por 169 crianças, matriculadas na Pré-Escola I, II e no 1º Ano do Ensino Fundamental. Foram utilizadas palestras e atividades lúdicas adequadas à faixa etária, além doÍndice de Higiene Oral Simplificado, para conversão de níveis de saúde bucal em valores quantitativos. Além disso, foi analisada também a presença de lesões de cárie e oclusopatias, utilizando o índice de Foster e Hamilton, sendo os dentes cariados restaurados por meio do Tratamento Restaurador Atraumático (ART). RESULTADO: Na análise dos dados obtidos, observou-se êxito no trabalho realizado com as crianças, pois houve redução no percentual de escovação deficiente de 20,7% para 4,1%, regular de 62,1% para 49,7%, e aumento do índice de higienização boa, de 8,9% para 32%. Com relação à chave de oclusão, observaram-se os seguintes resultados: chave de canino Classe I, 71,6%; sobressaliência normal, 35,5%; sobremordida normal, 40,8%, e mordida cruzada posterior, ausente em 75,1% dos casos. CONCLUSÃO: Atividades educativas baseadas em instrumentos lúdicos e procedimentos restauradores simples e eficazes podem promover melhorias consideráveis nos níveis de higiene oral.
Influence of whitening gel on pulp chamber temperature rise by in-office bleaching technique
Authors: Loretto Sandro Cordeiro , Libdy Mylena Ranieri , Ribeiro Fabiola do Socorro da Rocha , Braga Esther Marina França , Carneiro Karina Gama Kato , Silva e Souza Júnior Mário Honorato
Published: December 2013

INTRODUCTION: Dental bleaching is a conservative method for the aesthetic restoration of stained teeth. However, whitening treatments are likely to cause adverse effects when not well planned and executed. OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the influence of whitening gel on temperature rise in the pulp chamber, using the in-office photoactivated dental bleaching technique. MATERIAL AND METHOD: The root portion of an upper central human incisor was sectioned 3mm below the cemento-enamel junction. The root canal was enlarged to permit the insertion of the K-type thermocouple sensor (MT-401) into the pulp chamber, which was filled with thermal paste to facilitate the transfer of heat during bleaching. Three photosensitive whitening agents (35% hydrogen peroxide) were used: Whiteness HP (FGM), Whiteness HP Maxx (FGM) and Lase Peroxide Sensy (DMC). An LED photocuring light (Flash Lite - Discus Dental) was used to activate the whitening gels. Six bleaching cycles were performed on each group tested. The results were submitted to one-way ANOVA and LSD t-test (α<0.05). RESULT: The lowest mean temperature variation (ºC) was detected for Lase Peroxide Sensy (0.20), while the highest was recorded for Whiteness HP (1.50). CONCLUSION: The Whiteness HP and Whiteness HP Maxx whitening gels significantly affected the temperature rise in the pulp chamber during bleaching, and this variation was dependent on the type of whitening gel used.
Thermal effects on zirconia substrate after Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation
Authors: Cassoni Alessandra , Miranda Pérsio Vasconcelos , Rodrigues José Augusto , Heluy Silvia Coelho de Lacerda , Blay Alberto , Shibli Jamil Awad
Published: December 2013

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the present study was to investigate the thermal effects of Er,Cr:YSGG laser irradiation (1.5W/20Hz) on yttrium-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (Y-TZP). MATERIAL AND METHOD: Fifteen disks of Y-TZP (AS Technology TitaniumFIX, São José dos Campos, Brazil) with 5 mm diameter and 3 mm high standardized with CAD-CAM were used. The Y-TZP disks were randomized in three groups (n=5): Y-TZP-G1 = control (no laser treatment); Y-TZP-G2 = Y-TZP + Er,Cr:YSGG laser (air-water cooling proportion 80%/25%); Y-TZP-G3 = Y-TZP + Er,Cr:YSGG laser (air-water cooling proportion 80%/0%). A thermopar (SmartMether, Novus, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil) was attached to a digital thermometer (SmartMether, Novus, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil) fixed to the opposite irradiated surface. The temperature gradients (ΔT) were calculated (ΔT = Final Temperature - Initial Temperature) for each group. Values were statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA at the 95% confidence level and compared by Tukey post-hoc test (α=0.05) for each material. One sample of each group was analyzed by confocal white light microscopy. RESULT: The ANOVA test showed significant differences for the factor "laser" (p<.001). The temperature gradients (ΔT value) showed the following results: Y-TZP-G1 = 0 ºC; Y-TZP-G2 = -1.4 ºC and Y-TZP-G3 = 21.4 ºC. The ΔT values (ºC) of the non-refrigerated group were higher than the refrigerated group. The roughness value (Ra) ranged from 4.50 to -33.65 µm. CONCLUSION: The water refrigeration for Er,Cr:YSGG irradiation is essential to avoid thermal increase in the Y-TZP.
The acrylic's design or the addition of internal orthodontic wire changes the resistance of orthodontic plates?
Authors: Pithon Matheus Melo , Sousa Érica Luiza Santana Moreira , Fogaça Davi Novaes Ladeia , Silva William Soares da , Rodrigues Luciano Brito , Coqueiro Raildo Silva
Published: December 2013

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate resistance of Hawley retainers in three different acrylic configurations in order to evaluate if its format or the addition of internal wire interferes in its resistance. MATERIAL AND METHOD: 45 Hawley retainers were fabricated, divided into three groups (n = 15): Group 1 - acrylic covering the entire hard palate, Group 2 - plate with relief at the deepest region of the palate, leaving it with a "U" conformation and Group 3 - similar to Group 2, with the addition of 0.7mm wire 2cm internally of the acrylic at the region of the palatine ridges. The compressive strength was tested in a universal mechanical testing machine (Stable Microsystems, London, United Kingdom), measuring the applied force until plate rupture occurred. The differences between the formats being compared by the Kruskal-Wallis test. The significance level was set at 5% (α = 0.05). RESULT: Group 1 showed the highest resistance, with a mean of about five times higher than Group 2 and three times higher than Group 3. CONCLUSION: acrylic reduction in dental retainer plates is directly related to the reduction of its compressive strength, the inclusion of orthodontic wire inside the acrylic increases the resistance of the plate, being a good alternative when more comfort is wanted for the patient without loss of the mechanical characteristics of the dental retainers.
Cisto dentígero: modalidades de tratamento
Authors: Caliento Rubens , Mannarino Francesco Salvatore , Hochuli-Vieira Eduardo
Published: December 2013

INTRODUÇÃO: O cisto dentígero é o segundo cisto odontogênico mais frequente nos maxilares. É uma lesão benigna, derivada do epitélio odontogênico da coroa de um dente não erupcionado, porém de etiopatogenia incerta. São geralmente radiotransparentes e, mais comumente, uniloculares. Estas lesões são observadas em exames de rotina ou quando não ocorre o irrompimento de um dente permanente. Os terceiros molares inferiores e os caninos superiores são os dentes mais acometidos, sendo também alta a ocorrência desta lesão em dentes supranumerários e associados a odontomas. O cisto dentígero ocorre principalmente nas três primeiras décadas de vida, tendo um crescimento lento e assintomático; pode atingir dimensões consideráveis, causando deformidade facial, impactação e deslocamento de dentes e/ou estruturas adjacentes. OBJETIVO: Definição das técnicas de marsupialização e enucleação, bem como consideração de critérios objetivos importantes para o plano de tratamento, como tamanho do cisto, idade, proximidade com estruturas anatômicas e importância clínica do dente envolvido. Apesar das peculiaridades clínicas de cada caso e do método de tratamento escolhido, o prognóstico destas lesões é favorável, quando se emprega apropriada terapêutica. MATERIAL E MÉTODO: O presente estudo apresentará um relato de caso tratado através da manobra de descompressão seguida de enucleação, bem como uma discussão acerca das modalidades de tratamento. RESULTADO: O paciente encontra-se em pós-operatório de dois anos sem sinais de recidiva da lesão e ausência de parestesias em face. CONCLUSÃO: A técnica empregada preservou a função neurossensorial e mostrou-se eficiente para a cura da lesão.
Contaminant transport mechanisms at an abandoned sulfide mine
Authors: Gavriel Ifigenia , Kostarelos Konstantinos , Stylianou Marinos , Pourjabbar Anahita
Published: December 2013

An investigation at an abandoned, open-pit mine (Kokkinopezoula, Cyprus) concluded that environmental contamination has been transported by both mechanical and chemical mechanisms. The conclusion is based on several data sets, which were analysed using hierarchical clustering. Water samples were collected from the open pit during two different seasons of the year and from a creek located to the southeast of the pit and were analysed for pH and metal content. The results showed low pH and high metal content for the water samples collected from the open pit. Soil samples were collected from 32 locations (two depths each) chosen in relation to the geology and topography of the area, as well as to the mineralogy and alteration intensity of the waste dumps. The soil samples were analysed for their pH and element content with an analytical method that combines inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy, after complete digestion of the samples. Similarities in composition were used to conclude that the dominant contaminant transport mechanism is fluvial in nature, as well as a degree of chemical weathering/precipitation, but not Aeolian. This conclusion is important in the future design of a remediation strategy for the site.
Photocatalytic decolourization of the X3B textile dye in aqueous solutions using iron-rich montmorillonite
Authors: Wang Zong-ping , Huang Li-zhi , Du Lin , Sheng Hua , Lv Bo
Published: December 2013

Photocatalytic decolourization of textile dye X3B in aqueous solutions was investigated, using iron-rich montmorillonite (MMt, 2·24%Fe2O3) under a 15 W low-pressure UV lamp (λ = 254  nm, I = 48·4 μW/cm2). Hydroxyl radicals (•OH) were detected by tert-butyl alcohol (TBA) in aqueous MMt suspensions under UV irradiation and were found to be responsible for the degradation of X3B. Free iron ions dissolved in MMt suspensions, structural iron in the MMt solid, and the charged surface of nano clay are responsible for hydroxyl radical (•OH) production. Low pH values are favorable for the decolourization of X3B. The •OH concentration increased with increasing aqueous MMt concentrations in the range of 0  –  2·0  g/L; higher concentrations, for example, 5·0  g/L MMt, inhibited the •OH production. The addition of oxalate was favorable for X3B photodegradation in acid-washed MMt suspensions. This study shows that iron-rich MMt is a potential photocatalyst for the treatment of dye wastewater.
Spring ammonium maximum in the mid-depth layer of Lake Biwa, Japan
Authors: Tanaka Lidia L. , Ban Syuhei , Kumagai Michio
Published: December 2013

The spatio-temporal variation in ammonium-nitrogen (NH4-N) profiles was investigated in the North Basin of Lake Biwa in 2002, 2004, and 2005 and in the Uso River in 2004  –  2005. The in-lake concentration of NH4-N was low throughout the water column, except between late April and mid-June, when a distinct maximum developed between 10 and 25  m depth, in and below the thermocline. This layer extended offshore from both east and west boundaries to the center of the lake. By comparing water temperature estimates from the Uso River with water temperatures measured in the lake, we hypothesize that cooler water intrudes into the lake during the night at depths between 8 and 28  m. The intrusions are likely more pronounced from mid to late May when the NH4-N concentration in the Uso River is highest. This suggests that riverine input is an important factor in the formation of the mid-depth ammonium maximum in Lake Biwa. These findings underscore the importance of fluvial discharge and lateral transport of dissolved nutrients in temperate lakes.
Impact of microwave radiation on nitrogen removal and quantity of nitrifiers in biofilm
Authors: Zieliński Marcin , Zielińska Magdalena
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of microwave radiation on the efficiency of nitrification and on the percentage of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria in biofilm and to study the possibility of the occurrence of nonthermal effects caused by the interaction of microwaves and biofilm. Eight trickling filters with a biofilm were used in the experiment: four were exposed to microwave radiation, and four were heated with warm air as a control group. Microwave radiation at a frequency of 2·45  GHz was applied at an intensity of 18  W (0·01  W  cm−3 of the reactor packing), which increased the biofilm temperature by 6°C compared with the ambient temperature. The hydraulic loading averaged 0·30  m3  m−2  h−1, and the organic loading equalled 1·93  g chemical oxygen demand (COD)  m−2  d−1. Microwave radiation had an effect on the concentration of nitrogen compounds in the biofilm, and microwave heating triggered alterations within the biofilm that increased the efficiency of both nitrification and denitrification and the percentage of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria.
Effect of co-contaminants on the dechlorination of polychlorinated biphenyls
Authors: Kone Macoura , Chang Yanjun , Achari Gopal , Langford Cooper H.
Published: December 2013

A promising photolysis based technology to dechlorinate polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), extracted from soils, in alkaline isopropanol (IPA) as reaction medium has been proposed. To be marketable the impact of co-contaminants extracted along with the PCBs, on the photodechlorination process needs investigation. In this paper the effectiveness of the photodeclorination process on PCBs extracted from samples of a representative soil containing co-contaminants is reported. The photodechlorination of PCBs extracted from weathered soils showed promising results of more than 76% dechlorination within the first hour of UV irradiation. Nearly complete dechlorination (96%) was achieved after 2  h of UV irradiation. To provide quantitative controlled appraisal of the effect of co-contaminants and explanation of the effects, dechlorination of neat Aroclor 1254 in the presence of the common co-contaminant, transformer oil, was evaluated. Further, the effect of transformer oil on some of the individual PCB congeners in the Aroclor mixture was also studied. The difference in the maximum percentage dechlorination of PCBs with and without transformer oil is 15%.
Sewage sludge treatment by a continuous microwave enhanced advanced oxidation process
Authors: Yu Y. , Chan W.I. , Lo I.W. , Liao P.H. , Lo K.V.
Published: December 2013

A continuous flow mode of the microwave enhanced advanced oxidation process (MW/H2O2-AOP) was used for sludge treatment as opposed to a batch operation mode from past studies. The effects of pre-microwave heating, microwave irradiation and post-microwave holding on organic matter solubilization were studied. Pre-microwave heating did not improve the overall orthophosphate solubilization, but helped in organic matter solubilization. Nutrients and organic matter were found to have increased during the post-microwave holding period, indicating overall sludge solubilization can be more effective when maintained at a high temperature after treatment with the MW/H2O2-AOP. It was beneficial to operate a continuous mode of the MW/H2O2-AOP at a longer retention time for organic matter solubilization, and at a shorter retention time for orthophosphate solubilization. Sludge settleability was greatly improved with the microwave treatment, with or without the addition of H2O2. The pre-heating of sludge before treatment with the microwave process by the means of heat exchange can be beneficial for the overall organic matter solubilization in the MW/H2O2-AOP.
Anaerobic treatment of concentrated latex processing wastewater in two-stage upflow anaerobic sludge blanket
Authors: Jawjit Siriuma , Liengcharernsit Winai
Published: December 2013

This study aims to investigate treatment performance of the two-stage upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) applied to concentrated latex processing wastewater in Thailand. First, optimal conditions including the hydraulic retention time (HRT) in the acid tank and the UASB tank, pH, and temperature (mesophilic and thermophilic) were determined. It was found that the HRT at 24  h and 48  h were the optimal HRT for the acid tank and the UASB tank, respectively. The pH of the system should be controlled at 7 to prevent rubber coagulation and to achieve high treatment performance, and the mesophilic condition (35°C) was found to be the optimal temperature. Second, the two-stage UASB was applied with the optimal conditions mentioned earlier with real wastewater at a latex mill. It was found that methane production was about 0·116  L CH4/g COD removed (16·3  –  22·8  m3CH4/d), and average chemical oxygen demand (COD) and suspended solids (SS) removal efficiency were about 82% and 92%, respectively. In case of SS removal, the results revealed that the two-stage UASB was capable of overcoming the limitations of the single-stage UASB in treating concentrated latex effluent. The results indicated that application of the two-stage UASB to concentrated latex processing wastewater is feasible. Nevertheless, combination with other treatment systems (e.g., oxidation pond, aerated lagoon) is necessary to meet Thailand's industrial effluent standards (in the case of COD).
Evaluation of the biodegradation feasibility of antibiotics by three bacteria involving glutathione S-transferases
Authors: Park Hyeyoung , Choung Youn-Kyoo
Published: December 2013

Swine wastewater is not easy to dispose of in usual biological wastewater treatment plants. One reason is that some antibiotics are not easily degradable in the normal treatment system and suppress or inhibit microorganisms in the treatment system. Specifically tetracycline, sulfathiazole, and ampicillin have been widely used as antibiotics in pig feed. For treating disposal and spillage of these antibiotics biologically, a special enzyme based method is needed. Detoxifying enzymes caused the antibiotics to be bio-converted in this experiment and degraded them in this biological experiment. The glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) catalyzed the conjugation of glutathione (GSH) to a number of hydrophobic electrophilic substrates. In this study, we hypothesized that the microorganisms with GSTs degraded the representative manure antibiotics. The initial concentrations of tetracycline, sulfathiazole, and ampicillin were 100  mg/L, 100  mg/L, and 50  mg/L, respectively. These concentrations of antibiotics in pig feed are typical levels. Evaluation of the biodegradation feasibility of antibiotics was carried out by three bacteria possessing glutathione S-transferases under the strong concentration of antibiotics (standards for livestock pharmaceuticals in pig feed).
Contribution à l’étude de l’effet de la coagulation avant chloration sur la formation des trihalométhanes (THM) et composés organohalogénés (COX) dans les eaux alimentant la ville de Casablanca au Maroc (in French)
Authors: Zidane Fatiha , Cheggari Karima , Blais Jean-François , Drogui Patrick , Bensaid Jalila , Ahmed Saïd Ibn
Published: December 2013

Cette étude visait la détermination et le suivi des sous-produits de désinfection (SPD) halogénés des eaux naturelles servant à la production d’eau potable de la ville de Casablanca au Maroc. Dans un premier temps, un suivi des paramètres physicochimiques des eaux naturelles a été effectué dans le but de caractériser ces eaux, pour lesquelles la demande en chlore a été déterminée à partir du traçage de la courbe de point de rupture (« break point »). Dans un deuxième temps, des eaux ont été synthétisées au laboratoire, sur la base des résultats des analyses effectuées précédemment. Ces eaux synthétiques ont fait l’objet, elles aussi, de la détermination des courbes de point de rupture. Afin d’évaluer les conséquences de la chloration, des tests de suivi des trihalométhanes (THM) et des composés organohalogénés (COX), avant et après coagulation ont été effectués. Les résultats obtenus pour les eaux naturelles ont montré une corrélation entre le carbone organique total (COT), la teneur et la nature des THM et les COX formés suite à la chloration. Aussi, les résultats ont montré que la coagulation avant chloration permet de réduire la formation de SPD.
Tetracycline degradation by ozonation, and evaluation of biodegradability and toxicity of ozonation byproducts
Authors: Wu Jiguo , Jiang Yunxia , Zha Longying , Ye Zhuoming , Zhou Zhifeng , Ye Jufeng , Zhou Hongwei
Published: December 2013

Tetracycline was exposed to ozone by bubbling at different pH levels, and the acute toxicity of ozonation byproducts was tested by luminescent bacteria (Vibrio qinghaiensis sp.-Q67). Residual tetracycline in the solutions was detected by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results indicated that tetracycline was immediately degraded by ozonation and the degradation was favored at higher pH. Tetracycline (20  mg L−1) was completely degraded after 5  min of ozonation. However, total organic carbon (TOC) hardly decreased even though the ozonation time was extended to 40  min, suggesting that the ozonation process could not mineralize tetracycline. The luminescent bacteria assay indicated that the toxicity of the tetracycline solution was changed after ozonation. Chemical oxygen demand (COD) dropped by 15%, and the BOD5/COD ratio increased from 0·09 to 0·26, suggesting that the biodegradability of tetracycline was enhanced after 20 min of ozonation treatment.
Compost stability and maturity evaluation  —  a literature review
Authors: Wichuk Kristine M. , McCartney Daryl
Published: December 2013

Finished compost should be both stable (resistant to decomposition) and mature (ready for a particular end-use) so that it can safely be packaged and transported, and not cause adverse effects during its end use. A variety of methods for evaluating stability and maturity are available; this paper contains a review of the effectiveness of a number of the most commonly used tests, to determine the most reliable approach(es). In the literature reviewed, it was generally agreed that a single, stand-alone test for both compost stability and maturity does not yet exist; therefore, it is best to use a combination of tests. However, there is disagreement in the literature as to what the best combination for evaluation should be, and guidelines and regulations around the world employ a variety of approaches.
Influence of DPPC layers and PLA2 on surface properties of silica particles
Authors: Szczes Aleksandra , Holysz Lucyna
Published: December 2013

The effect of phospholipids, 1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine (DPPC) and phospholipase A2 (PLA2), in the presence of calcium ions on surface properties of silica particles was investigated by means of zeta potential, mean diameter and light transmittance. Silica particles were precoated with the monolayer or the bilayer of the phospholipid from the chloroform solution (silica/DPPC) or coated by DPPC adsorption (silica+DPPC) from the aqueous solution containing calcium ions. It was found that the presence of Ca2+ ions improved remarkably neutral phospholipid (DPPC) adsorption on the silica surface. The obtained silica suspensions were found to be stable probably due to steric stabilization. The zeta potential of silica/DPPC suspension and the light transmittance through the suspension decrease after the PLA2 action in 1 mM calcium chloride solution were probably due to the hydrolysis products adsorption on the silica particles and formation of insoluble calcium palmitate molecules.
A fire‐driven shift from forest to non‐forest: evidence for alternative stable states?
Authors: Fletcher Michael-Shawn , Wood Sam W. , Haberle Simon G.
Published: December 2013

We test the validity of applying the alternative stable state paradigm to account for the landscape‐scale forest/non‐forest mosaic that prevails in temperate Tasmania, Australia. This test is based on fine‐scale pollen, spore, and charcoal analyses of sediments located within a small patch of non‐forest vegetation surrounded by temperate forest. Following nearly 500 years of forest dominance at the site, a catastrophic fire drove an irreversible shift from a forested Cyperaceae–Sphagnum wetland to a non‐forested Restionaceae wetland at ca. 7000 calibrated (cal) yr BP. Persistence of the non‐forest/Restionaceae vegetation state over 7000 years, despite long fire‐free intervals, implies that fire was not essential for the maintenance of the non‐forest state. We propose that reduced interception and transpiration of the non‐forest state resulted in local waterlogging, presenting an eco‐hydrological barrier to forest reestablishment over the succeeding 7000 years. We further contend that the rhizomatous nature of the non‐forest species presented a reinforcing eco‐physical barrier to forest development. Our results satisfy a number of criteria for consideration as an example of a switch between alternative stable states, including different origin and maintenance pathways, and they provide insights into the role of threshold dynamics and hysteresis in forest–non‐forest transitions.
Monitoring Nitrogen Leaf Resorption Kinetics by Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy during Grain Filling in Durum Wheat in Different Nitrogen Availability Conditions
Authors: Vilmus Ingrid , Ecarnot Martin , Verzelen Nicolas , Roumet Pierre
Published: December 2013

In wheat (Triticum spp.), the N content of leaves during the grain filling period (GFP) plays a key role in maintaining photosynthetic activity and determining the amount of N available for grain protein content (GPC). We documented flag N leaf resorption in durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L.) plants under a nonlimiting level of N in 2010 and under two different levels of N fertilization in 2011. During the GFP, we monitored changes in flag leaf N content by a nondestructive method based on near‐infrared spectroscopy. The datasets were modeled for each plant; parameters were extracted and analyzed to determine which source of variation (genotype and/or N availability) predominated. Different genotypic profiles were highlighted opposing Ixos versus Primadur when comparing two different levels of N availability, with Ixos flag leaves being the most affected by a low level of N preanthesis. High postanthesis N availability delayed the beginning of N resorption (t0) and there was a strong negative correlation between t0 and the resorption duration. Delayed N resorption was associated with better grain yield components. A high proportion of the variation of grain yield per spike and GPC was explained by multiple linear regressions combining the width of the flag leaf and N dynamic parameters under the nonlimiting N availability. The negative correlation between yield and GPC may result from the initiation of N resorption during grain filling, potentially increasing yield if delayed or increasing GPC if occurring early.
Characterization and Evaluation of Wild Annual Cicer Species for Agro‐morphological Traits and Major Biotic Stresses under Northwestern Indian Conditions
Authors: Singh Mohar , Bisht Ishwari Singh , Dutta Manoranjan , Kumar Krishna , Basandrai Ashwani Kumar , Kaur Lavinder , Sirari Asmita , Khan Z. , Rizvi Aqeel Hasan , Sarker Ashutosh , Bansal Kailash Chander
Published: December 2013

Systematic characterization and evaluation of the wild gene pool for breeding purposes is a common practice in an increasing number of cultivated crop species. Substantial yield improvement of cultivated chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) has been limited by the loss of useful genes for higher yield and lack of resistance to major biotic stresses. In the present study, a total of 88 wild accessions of six annual Cicer species viz., C. reticulatum Ladizinsky, C. echinospermum P.H. Davis, C. judaicum Boiss., C. pinnatifidum Jarb. & Spach, C. bijugum Rech. f., and C. yamashitae Kitam., along with three check varieties (controls) of cultivated chickpea namely, Pusa 256, Pusa 1103, and JG 11, were characterized and evaluated for phenological and agro‐morphological traits, including their reaction to the major fungal diseases [Ascochyta blight caused by Ascochyta rabiei (Pass.) Labr. and Botrytis gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea Pers. ex. Fr.] and root knot nematode (Meliodogyne incognita). Wild Cicer accessions exhibited variation for some morphological traits, including plant pigmentation in C. reticulatum, C. judaicum, and C. pinnatifidum; number of leaflets leaf−1 in C. reticulatum, C. echinospermum, C. judaicum, C. pinnatifidum, and C. bijugum; and seed color in C. reticulatum, C. judaicum, and C. pinnatifidum. Likewise, variation for agro‐morphological traits was also studied, that is, earliness, number of branches plant−1, and number of pods plant−1, etc. Some of these were comparable with the cultivated genotypes. Pattern of within‐species diversity was also estimated using Ward's Minimum Variance Dendrogram and principal components analysis for important agro‐morphological traits. Among the wild Cicer species, C. judaicum and C. pinnatifidum had the greatest number of resistant accessions including multiple resistance for Ascochyta blight, Botrytis gray mold, and root knot nematode. Variability among wild annual Cicer accessions is invaluable and can be exploited following introgression into cultivated chickpea. It will also help in the flow of useful genes from the wild to the cultivated gene pool and generating additional variation for use in chickpea improvement.
Sparse‐Flowering Orchardgrass Represents an Improvement in Forage Quality During Reproductive Growth
Authors: Casler M.D. , Undersander D.J. , Papadopolous Y.A. , Bittman S. , Hunt D. , Mathison R.D. , Min D.H. , Robins J.G. , Cherney J.H. , Acharya S.N. , Belesky D.P. , Bowley S.R. , Coulman B.E. , Drapeau R. , Ehlke N.J. , Hall M.H. , Leep R.H. , Michaud R. , Rowsell J. , Shewmaker G.E. , Teutsch C.D. , Coblentz W.K.
Published: December 2013

Orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) is a major component of many pastures in temperate North America. Early and profuse flowering in pastures is problematic, because livestock refuse to consume flowering stems, prompting many graziers to simply avoid using this species. The objective of this research was to determine the impact of reduced flowering on the quality of harvested forage under two harvest managements of orchardgrass. Six cultivars, three normal cultivars and three sparse‐flowering cultivars (mean panicle density of 141 vs. 61 panicles m⁻2, respectively), were evaluated in field experiments at 21 locations in North America under a 3‐cut harvest management. These cultivars were also evaluated at seven locations under a 5‐cut harvest management. Sparse‐flowering cultivars averaged 9% greater crude protein (CP), 3% lower neutral detergent fiber (NDF), 2% greater NDF digestibility, and 2% greater in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) than normal cultivars. For the two digestibility measures, differential panicle density between the cultivar groups explained a significant portion of variability, indicating that the increase in forage quality was proportional to the decrease in panicle density below a threshold of about 50 panicles m⁻2. Lastly, differences in regrowth forage quality between cultivar groups were smaller, less consistent, and of lesser statistical significance than for first harvest. While selection for sparse flowering in orchardgrass resulted in significant cause‐and‐effect increases in first‐harvest forage quality, these effects were too small to offset the reduced forage yield associated with the sparse‐flowering trait.
Adsorptive removal of trace oxytetracycline from water by acid-modified zeolite: influencing factors
Authors: An Wenhao , Xiao Hua , Yu Man , Chen Xiaoyang , Xu Yuxin , Zhou Wenmin
Published: December 2013

Because of the wide use of antibiotics in the livestock industry, trace tetracycline antibiotics are frequently detected in swine wastewater and water bodies near pig farms. Based on natural zeolite, modified zeolite was synthesized by treatment with nitric acid. As one kind of typical tetracyclines, oxytetracycline (OTC) was chosen as the target adsorbate. Removal of trace OTC by modified zeolite and the effects of several main water matrices on OTC adsorption were studied in detail. OTC removal efficiency by acid-modified zeolite was about 90%, compared to less than 20% by natural zeolite. In general, in acidic conditions the removal efficiency of OTC by modified zeolite was about 90%, which was much higher than 20–35% in alkaline conditions. An increase in ionic strength from 0.01 to 1.0 M led to a decrease in adsorption efficiency from 90 to 27%. The presence of 10.0 mg L−1 dissolved humic acid accelerated sorption of OTC on modified zeolite, while 100.0 mg L−1 humic acid resulted in the opposite effect. An increase in temperature contributed to enhancing the adsorption efficiency.
Quantification of Helicobacter pylori in the viable but nonculturable state by quantitative PCR in water disinfected with ozone
Authors: Casasola-Rodríguez B. , Orta de Velásquez M. T. , Luqueño-Martínez V. G. , Monje-Ramírez I.
Published: December 2013

Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative spiral-shaped bacterium that colonizes the gastric mucosa and is associated with gastric diseases. It may present a morphological adaptation when it is out of its natural environment, such as in water. The morphological adaptation is a coccoid form, which is a viable but non-culturable state (VNC) in which the DNA remains active and therefore infective. Due to the impossibility of culture by traditional methods in the VNC state, we developed a methodology that includes a molecular technique, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), which is capable of measuring the bacteria in both forms (helical and coccoidal) and therefore is able to measure a disinfection process and to estimate the resistance of the bacteria to ozone. The methodology developed measures the efficiency of the ozone disinfection when bacteria are in a VNC state only. Bacterial culture at 9 × 108CFU/mL diluted in 40 mL reaction volumes were exposed to a wide range of CT values (0.11–15 mg min/L). The results show a 3.92-log reduction when treated with 15 mg min/L. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of using qPCR for the quantification and detection of H. pylori, in coccoid form, in water systems treated with an ozone disinfection process.
Analysing urban resilience through alternative stormwater management options: application of the conceptual Spatial Decision Support System model at the neighbourhood scale
Authors: Balsells M. , Barroca B. , Amdal J. R. , Diab Y. , Becue V. , Serre D.
Published: December 2013

Recent changes in cities and their environments, caused by rapid urbanisation and climate change, have increased both flood probability and the severity of flooding. Consequently, there is a need for all cities to adapt to climate and socio-economic changes by developing new strategies for flood risk management. Following a risk paradigm shift from traditional to more integrated approaches, and considering the uncertainties of future urban development, one of the main emerging tasks for city managers becomes the development of resilient cities. However, the meaning of the resilience concept and its operability is still not clear. The goal of this research is to study how urban engineering and design disciplines can improve resilience to floods in urban neighbourhoods. This paper presents the conceptual Spatial Decision Support System (DS3) model which we consider a relevant tool to analyse and then implement resilience into neighbourhood design. Using this model, we analyse and discuss alternative stormwater management options at the neighbourhood scale in two specific areas: Rotterdam and New Orleans. The results obtained demonstrate that the DS3 model confirmed in its framework analysis that stormwater management systems can positively contribute to the improved flood resilience of a neighbourhood.
Decolorization of Crystal Violet by ultrasound/heterogeneous Fenton process
Authors: Zhang Hui , Gao Hong , Cai Chun , Zhang Chunyang , Chen Lu
Published: December 2013

Activated-carbon-supported iron oxides were prepared and used as a catalyst in an integrated ultrasound/heterogeneous Fenton process for the decolorization of Crystal Violet. A synergistic effect was observed when ultrasound was combined with the heterogeneous Fenton process. The decolorization efficiency increased with the increasing power density and catalyst dosage, but decreased with the increase of initial pH value. There exists an optimal hydrogen peroxide concentration for decolorization. Catalyst stability was evaluated by measuring iron leaching in solution. The decolorization efficiency was 88% under the optimal conditions. Toxicity test with Daphnia magna showed that the acute toxicity of dye solution decreased significantly after the treatment by the heterogeneous sono-Fenton process.
Effect of polar additives on melt electrospinning of nonpolar polypropylene
Authors: Zhiyuan Chen , He Jianyun , Fengwen Zhao , Yuexing Liu , Yong Liu , Huilin Yuan
Published: December 2013

Melt or solution electrospinning is an effective and direct technique for
producing nanoscale fibers. Polypropylene (PP) cannot be easily dissolved at
ambient temperature. Thus, it was commonly electrospun in melt state.
However, compared with solution electrospun fibers, melt electrospun PP
fibers are more uneven with bigger diameters. To remedy this problem, polar
additives, namely, stearic acid and sodium stearate were added into pure PP.
The effects of the additives were investigated. Results showed that
contrasting to those of pure PP, the fiber diameter of PP with 8 wt% stearic
acid decreased by 69.3 % (from 5.4 ?m to 1.6 ?m). The smallest fiber diameter
was 600 nm and the smallest average fiber diameter was 1.8 ?m when the sodium
stearate contents were 10 wt% and 8 wt%, respectively. The addition of polar
compounds could alter not only the diameters of PP microfibers, but also the
distribution of diameters, the processing current, and even the thermal
properties of fibers. The microcosmic mechanisms for these changes were
interpreted.