bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performativity of Theory, Arbitrary Conventions, and Possible Worlds: A Reality Check
Authors: Felin Teppo , Foss Nicolai J.
Published: April 2009

We argue that Ferraro, Pfeffer, and Sutton build on a scientifically problematic conception of the relationship between theory and social reality. Specifically, the performativity perspective that they build on makes tenuous assumptions about the role that theories, whether true or not, play in strongly constructing social reality, but the perspective fundamentally ignores central matters related to human nature and the boundaries of possibility. We argue for a more realistic approach to theory building and social science, one that recognizes the role that true theories play in helping us understand and explain reality, but also in turn shaping that reality given this better theoretical understanding.
Epstein-Barr Virus-associated Gastric Carcinoma: A Distinct Carcinoma of Gastric Phenotype by Claudin Expression Profiling
Authors: Shinozaki Aya , Ushiku Tetsuo , Morikawa Teppei , Hino Rumi , Sakatani Takashi , Uozaki Hiroshi , Fukayama Masashi
Published: April 2009

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated gastric carcinoma (GC) is a distinct subtype with characteristic clinicopathological features. To better characterize its cellular characteristics, 43 cases of EBV-associated GC, 68 cases of EBV-negative GC, and non-neoplastic gastric mucosa in adults and fetuses were examined immunohistochemically. We quantified the expression of the major tight-junction protein claudin (CLDN) -1, -3, -4, -7, and -18 together with gastric mucins (MUC5AC and MUC6), intestinal mucin (MUC2), and CD10. EBV-associated GC showed a high frequency of CLDN18 expression (84%) and a low frequency of CLDN3 expression (5%). This expression profile corresponded to that of normal gastric epithelium in adults and fetuses. Almost half of the EBV-associated GC cases demonstrated gastric mucin expression, whereas the other half lacked mucin or CD10 expression. In contrast, as demonstrated by the expression profiles of CLDN3 and CLDN18, EBV-negative GC comprised a heterogeneous group of four different CLDN phenotypes: gastric, intestinal, mixed, and an undifferentiated type with variable expression patterns of mucins. These results indicate that EBV-associated GC is considerably homogenous with regard to cellular differentiation and that it preserves well the nature of the cells of origin. EBV-associated GC may undergo distinct carcinogenic processes, which differ from those of EBV-negative GC.
Effects of Prolonged Formalin Fixation on Diagnostic Immunohistochemistry in Domestic Animals
Authors: Webster Joshua D. , Miller Margaret A. , DuSold Dee , Ramos-Vara José
Published: April 2009

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is routinely used in diagnostic pathology to detect infectious agents, to immunophenotype neoplastic cells, and to prognosticate neoplastic diseases. Formalin fixation is considered a limiting factor for IHC because formalin can cross-link antigens and mask epitopes. Prolonged formalin fixation is presumed to result in decreased antigen detection; however, this effect has only been evaluated with a few antibodies. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of prolonged formalin fixation on the immunohistochemical detection of 61 different antigens. Approximately 5-mm-thick tissue slices were fixed in 10% neutral-buffered formalin. Tissue slices were removed from formalin, processed, and paraffin-embedded at 1-day, 3-day, and then at ≃1-week intervals. IHC was performed on all sections in tandem after all tissues were processed. Immunoreactions were evaluated by three pathologists according to a four-tier grading system. Immunoreactivity of cytokeratin 7, high-molecular-weight cytokeratin, and laminin was diminished by prolonged formalin fixation. However, immunohistochemical reactivity remained moderate to strong with up to 7 weeks of fixation for all other antibodies. These results suggest that prolonged formalin fixation has minimal effects on antigen detection for most commonly used antibodies. These results further validate the use of IHC in diagnostic pathology.
Abū Ḳurra über die Verehrung christlicher Bilder
Authors: Pochoshajew Igor
Published: April 2009

Unter Berücksichtigung der erzielten Einsichten ist der geschichtliche Entstehungszusammenhang der Schrift Über die Verehrung christlicher Bilder wie folgt zu bestimmen: Mit der Verdrängung aus dem öffentlichen Raum verlor das Christentum immer mehr an sozialer Plausibilität. Trotz der politischen Einbußen verfügten die Christen über eine Fülle der eigenen kulturellen Überlegenheit. Die fehlende Einheitlichkeit bezüglich der theologischen Berechtigung der Bilderverehrung im christlichen Lager gefährdete ein zentrales Element der eigenen kulturellen Tradition. Da die muslimische und jüdische Bilderkritik zum Gewicht der bilderfeindlichen Position innerhalb des Christentums indirekt beitrug, war eine theologische Auseinandersetzung mit ihren Argumenten dringend erforderlich. Es war insofern wichtig, den Standpunkt der Muslime fundiert zu entkräften, als der Islam mit der fortschreitenden Festigung seiner politischen Herrschaft immer überzeugender wirkte. Das christliche Bild bekam in diesem Zusammenhang die Bedeutung eines Symbols der Plausibilität des Christentums, welches es zu erhalten galt. Die Bilderabhandlung Abū Ḳurras ist ein Zeugnis des Überlebenskampfes der Christen in der Situation einer fortschreitenden inneren Expansion des Islams. Der Text belegt gleichzeitig, dass dieser Kampf von den Muslimen mit dem Mittel der strukturell-politischen Maßnahmen und des theologischen Arguments geführt wurde.
Enhanced Hardenability through Application of Magnetic Fields
Authors: Machado Izabel Fernanda
Published: April 2009

Even with the great improvements in new materials, the substitution of steels in most applications is not yet economically justifiable. Steels are the most important alloys utilized as structural materials and will certainly continue to be so in the next decades. The effects of the conventional heat treatments in changing the mechanical properties of steels are well known by now. However, the effects of magnetic fields on phase transformations have recently been considered and new perspectives of study and of applications are now being opened for steels. Magnetic fields lower the Gibbs free energy, and the transformation temperature of steels increases for an applied magnetic field. As a result, different properties and microstructures could be achieved after heat treatments due to magnetic field effect. The main objective of this work is to show a process to enhance the hardenability of steels through modifications in heat treatment. The chemical composition of the material studied is similar to AISI 52100 steel. The procedure consists of applying a magnetic field in the sample throughout or in different steps of the heat treatment. All the samples were heat treated at the same temperature and cooled at the same cooling rate. The results of the magnetic field applied in steel samples were compared to conventional heat treatments. A significant improvement in microhardness of the samples was measured after applying a magnetic field. A considerable rise in the hardenability and a modification in the Fe-C equilibrium diagram were also verified, as shown in the literature.
The Influence of Tank Mix Additives While Making Low Volume Aerial Fungicide Applications
Authors: Wolf Robert , Gardisser Dennis , Bretthaurer Scott , Mauromoustakos Andy , Baxter Lynn
Published: April 2009

Multiple experiments using low volume aerial applications with nine different adjuvants in combination with fungicide were conducted to compare coverage, droplet spectra, yield, and disease control. Four locations were scattered over three states: Arkansas, Kansas, and Illinois. Four aircraft with different nozzle and boom setups were used to complete the studies. Volume median size (DV0.5) ranged from 232 μm to 364 μm. Kromekote® papers used as collectors were placed in the center 9 m of each aerial swath/treatment (20 m) at three different plant heights: top corn leaf, ear leaf, and the leaf three collars below ear leaf. In each treatment, sampling consisted of 30 papers; 10 corn plants at the three heights, with all papers at 30 cm from the main stalk. DropletScan™, utilizing a high resolution color scanner to digitize the images on the Kromekote® papers, was used to analyze each paper. Means for percent area coverage and DV0.5 were used to separate differences in treatments. Relative span was calculated as an indicator of the range in the droplet spectrum. Yields were taken from the center of each treatment. Three to five replications per treatment were completed and a SAS GLIMMIX analysis was performed. Significant differences were measured among adjuvant treatments for both droplet spectra and deposition/coverage. Mixed results are reported across all treatments and locations. A mixture of water, Headline, and Crop Oil Concentrate (Treatment 2) was consistently measured with the lowest amount of coverage, and in two of four locations had the largest DV0.5. Overall, droplet spectra were impacted by the addition of adjuvants to the tank mix. The largest droplets were not associated with the best coverage, and the trend was for the lowest coverage to be associated with the smallest droplets. Treatment 5 (NIS+Interlock) had the smallest DV0.5 in three of the test locations. A limited number of significant yield differences were found. This effect could be due to low disease pressure.
X-ray crystal structure and conformation of N-(tert-butyloxycarbonyl)-L-methionyl-(1-aminocyclopent-3-ene-1-carbonyl)-L-phenylalanine methyl ester (Boc0-Met1-Cpg2-Phe3-OMe)
Authors: Mura Pasquale , Camalli Mercedes , Campi Gaetano , Lucente Gino , Giordano Cesare , Mollica Adriano , Sansone Anna , Torino Domenica
Published: April 2009

Molecular structure and conformation in the crystal of N-Boc-Met-Cpg-Phe-OMe, a conformationally restricted tripeptide derivative, structurally related to the chemotactic antagonist agent N-Boc-Met-Leu-Phe-OMe is reported. In the title compound the native central Leu residue has been replaced with the unusual cyclic and achiral quaternary amino acid residue of the 1-aminocyclopent-3-ene-1-carboxylic acid (Cpg). The peptide backbone adopts a type II β-turn (C10) conformation at the –Met-Cpg- sequence with a distance, between the terminal pseudo-ring atoms O6 · · · C3, of 5.49(1)Å. The tripeptide crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system, space group P21, cell parameter: a = 5.867(7) Å, b = 23.54(2) Å, c = 10.34(1) Å, β = 99.74(5)°, V = 1407(2) Å3; empirical formula C26H37N3O6S; needle crystals were obtained by slow evaporation of an ethyl acetate solution, after 4 days, at room temperature. The low diffraction power of the crystals, it was impossible to obtain crystal structure from normal diffractometer data, suggested to utilize X-ray synchrotron radiation.
Phase characterization of Sm–Lu mixed oxide powders prepared by sintering and radio frequency plasma spraying
Authors: Hübner Rene , Sun Xiaolong , Tok Alfred I. Y. , Boey Freddy Y. C.
Published: April 2009

Radio frequency plasma spraying is a promising technique to prepare rare earth oxide nano-particles. Applying this method after sintering of pellets at T = 1600 °C and subsequent grinding, Sm2O3—Lu2O3 mixed oxide powders of various compositions were synthesized. Analyzing the ground powders, the phase field can be divided into three regions: (1) Sm-rich monoclinic B-type solid solutions, (2) Lu-rich cubic C-type solid solutions, and (3) a diphasic region for Lu contents 0.33 ≤ x
Lu ≤ 0.54. In the single phase areas, the volume for one formula unit of the rare earth sesquioxide is found to depend linearly on the cubed average cation radius. Plasma spraying of the Lu-rich powders leads to a second monoclinic B-type phase. Excluding the solubility gap, the monoclinic lattice parameters show quadratic dependencies on the Lu content and the molecular volume is a function of third order on the cation radius.
Symmetry relationships of sodalite (SOD) – type crystal structures
Authors: Fischer Reinhard X. , Baur W.H.
Published: April 2009

The mineral sodalite with the ideal composition Na8[Al6Si6O24]Cl2is the prototype for numerous related crystal structures based on the same topology of the underlying net of strong bonds. This net has been assigned the code SOD by the Structure Commission of the International Zeolite Association. Minerals and synthetic compounds with a SOD-type framework represent the most comprehensive family of zeolite-type compounds with the highest number of published crystal structures. Among these are aluminosilicates (e.g., sodalite, haüyne, helvine, lazurite, nosean, tsaregorodtsevite), beryllosilicates (e.g., danalite, genthelvite, tugtupite), chlorides, sulfides (e.g., tetrahedrite, binnite, freibergite, galkhaite, goldfieldite, tennantite), borates (rhodizite), synthetic phosphates, aluminates, phosphides, nitrides and clathrate hydrates which have been shown by crystal structure analyses to adopt the SOD-type framework. More than 900 SOD-type crystal structures, which represent over 18% of the total number of published zeolite structures, are known. The complete symmetry relationships of SOD-type crystal structures comprising 27 space groups are listed in a Bärnighausen-tree together with the type and index of symmetry reduction. No other zeolite type displays such a rich harvest of symmetry as the sodalite-type. Seven additional space groups reported for SOD-types have not been considered here because they were not well supported by experimental evidence. Of the 26 low-symmetry derivatives six are due to an ordering of tetrahedrally coordinated framework cations. In two cases the lowering of symmetry is caused by some of the framework cations assuming 5- or 6-coordinations instead of the usual 4-coordination. This means that in 18 cases the lower space group symmetries are achieved by the influence of pore-filling matter.
Large-Scale Functional Annotation and Expanded Implementations of the P{wHy} Hybrid Transposon in the Drosophila melanogaster Genome
Authors: Myrick Kyl V , Huet François , Mohr Stephanie E , Álvarez-García Inés , Lu Jeffrey T , Smith Mark A , Crosby Madeline A , Gelbart William M
Published: April 2009

Whole genome sequencing of the model organisms has created increased demand for efficient tools to facilitate the genome annotation efforts. Accordingly, we report the further implementations and analyses stemming from our publicly available P{wHy} library for Drosophila melanogaster. A two-step regime—large scale transposon mutagenesis followed by hobo-induced nested deletions—allows mutation saturation and provides significant enhancements to existing genomic coverage. We previously showed that, for a given starting insert, deletion saturation is readily obtained over a 60-kb interval; here, we perform a breakdown analysis of efficiency to identify rate-limiting steps in the process. Transrecombination, the hobo-induced recombination between two P{wHy} half molecules, was shown to further expand the P{wHy} mutational range, pointing to a potent, iterative process of transrecombination–reconstitution–transrecombination for alternating between very large and very fine-grained deletions in a self-contained manner. A number of strains also showed partial or complete repression of P{wHy} markers, depending on chromosome location, whereby asymmetric marker silencing allowed continuous phenotypic detection, indicating that P{wHy}-based saturational mutagenesis should be useful for the study of heterochromatin/positional effects.
Estrogen regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor in breast cancer in vitro and in vivo: the role of estrogen receptor α and c-Myc
Authors: Dadiani Maya , Seger Dalia , Kreizman Tamar , Badikhi Daria , Margalit Raanan , Eilam Raya , Degani Hadassa
Published: April 2009

The role of c-Myc in estrogen regulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and of the vasculature function has been investigated in breast cancer cells and tumors. The studies were performed on MCF7 wild-type cells and MCF7-35im clone, stably transfected with an inducible c-Myc gene. In vitro and ex vivo methods for investigating molecular events were integrated with in vivo magnetic resonance imaging of the vascular function. The results showed that the c-Myc upregulation by estrogen is necessary for the transient induction of VEGF transcription; however, overexpression of c-Myc alone is not sufficient for this induction. Furthermore, both c-Myc and the activated estrogen receptor α (ERα) were shown to co-bind the VEGF promoter in close proximity, indicating a novel mechanism for estrogen regulation of VEGF. Studies of long-term estrogen treatment and overexpression of c-Myc alone demonstrated regulation of stable VEGF expression levels in vitro and in vivo, maintaining steady vascular permeability in tumors. However, withdrawal of estrogen from the tumors resulted in increased VEGF and elevated vascular permeability, presumably due to hypoxic conditions that were found to dominate VEGF overexpression in cultured cells. This work revealed a cooperative role for ERα and c-Myc in estrogen regulation of VEGF and the ability of c-Myc to partially mimic estrogen regulation of angiogenesis. It also illuminated the differences in estrogen regulation of VEGF during transient and long-term sustained treatments and under different microenvironmental conditions, providing a complementary picture of the in vitro and in vivo results.
A new mouse model of metabolic syndrome and associated complications
Authors: Wang Yun , Zheng Yue , Nishina Patsy M , Naggert Jürgen K
Published: April 2009

Metabolic syndrome (MS) encompasses a clustering of risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. We characterized a new mouse model carrying a dominant mutation, C57BL/6J-Nmf15/+ (B6-Nmf15/+), which develops additional complications of MS such as adipose tissue inflammation and cardiomyopathy. A backcross was used to genetically map the Nmf15 locus. Mice were examined in the comprehensive laboratory animal monitoring system, and dual energy X-ray absorptiometry and blood chemistry analyses were performed. Hypothalamic LEPR, SOCS1, and STAT3 phosphorylation were examined. Cardiac function was assessed by echo- and electrocardiography. Adipose tissue inflammation was characterized by in situ hybridization and measurement of Jun kinase activity. The Nmf15 locus mapped to distal mouse chromosome 5 with an LOD (logarithm of odds) score of 13.8. Nmf15 mice developed obesity by 12 weeks of age. Plasma leptin levels were significantly elevated in pre-obese Nmf15 mice at 8 weeks of age and an attenuated STAT3 phosphorylation in the hypothalamus suggests a primary leptin resistance. Adipose tissue from Nmf15 mice showed a remarkable degree of inflammation and macrophage infiltration as indicated by expression of the F4/80 marker and increased phosphorylation of JUN N-terminal kinase 1/2. Lipidosis was observed in tubular epithelial cells and glomeruli of the kidney. Nmf15 mice demonstrate both histological and pathophysiological evidence of cardiomyopathy. The Nmf15 mouse model provides a new entry point into pathways mediating leptin resistance and obesity. It is one of few models that combine many aspects of MS and can be useful for testing new therapeutic approaches for combating obesity complications, particularly cardiomyopathy.
Impact of Elevated Copper on the Rate and Gaseous Products of Denitrification in Freshwater Sediments
Authors: Jacinthe Pierre‐Andre , Tedesco Lenore P.
Published: April 2009

Application of Cu‐containing algicides to water reservoirs for algal control leads to sediment Cu enrichment, but the impact of Cu accumulation on the NO3−‐attenuation capacity of these ecosystems is uncertain. With the knowledge that the reduction of N2O to N2is mediated by a Cu‐dependent enzyme, it is hypothesized that an inverse variation exists between Cu availability and the mole fraction of N2O (FN2O) in denitrification products. A study was conducted to test this hypothesis and also to assess the impact of elevated Cu on nitrification and denitrification. Sediments were collected from areas untreated (NCT) and treated (CT) with the algicide cutrine (Cu ethanolamine) in three central Indiana reservoirs, and were assayed at both in situ Cu content and after amendment with CuSO4Results showed that Cu addition had a depressive, but short‐lived effect on the processes investigated, with nitrification being most sensitive. Past cutrine treatments did not significantly affect either denitrification or FN2OHowever, a significant difference (P< 0.04) among reservoirs was found with respect to denitrification (Eagle Creek: 3.2; Geist: 1.6 and Morse: 4.2 mg N kg−1h−1) and FN2O(0.51, 0.24, and 0.31, respectively). Negative relationships (r2: 0.30–0.64) between FN2Oand water extractable Cu were found only when the analysis was conducted separately for each reservoir, suggesting that Cu solubility is controlled by sediment properties specific to each reservoir. Overall, results of this study indicate that neither the NO3−‐removal capacity of sediments nor the composition of denitrification N gases is affected by past treatments with cutrine.
Use of Mixed Solvent Systems to Eliminate Sorption of Strongly Hydrophobic Organic Chemicals on Container Walls
Authors: Muwamba Augustine , Nkedi‐Kizza Peter , Rhue Roy Dean , Keaffaber Jeffrey J.
Published: April 2009

Strongly hydrophobic organic chemicals (SHOCs) can be defined as neutral organic chemicals that have soil organic carbon (OC) normalized sorption coefficient (KOC) >10,000. Sorption isotherms of SHOCs are normally measured in aqueous systems to determine KOC Since SHOCs can adsorb on container walls leading to overestimation of KOC, we used mixed solvent systems to characterize this potential error. Sorption coefficient (KM) and percent recovery (%RM) of anthracene, DDT, and dieldrin during sorption on centrifuge tubes made of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polycarbonate (PC), polypropylene copolymer (PPCO), and glass high pressure liquid chromatography vials (HPLCV) were measured in volume ratio‐varied methanol‐water mixtures until 100% recovery of the sorbate was achieved. The data were evaluated using the Solvophobic theory. The KM values of the entire test SHOCs decreased exponentially with increasing fraction of methanol (fc). For sorption on PTFE, 100% recovery of the three chemicals was at fc > 0.45. However, 100% recovery of DDT and anthracene from PC and PPCO was at fc > 0.90. The 100% recovery of dieldrin from HPLC vials was at fc > 0.70. In water the calculated recoveries of DDT, dieldrin, and anthracene from PTFE were 32, 43, and 48%, respectively. However, the recoveries of dieldrin from HPLC vials and DDT and anthracene from PC and PPCO ranged from 2 to 14%. The data demonstrate that sorption on container walls is a source of error that can reduce the integrity of the analyte and might be one of the causes for the large variability in literature KOC values for SHOCs.
Content and Binding Forms of Heavy Metals, Aluminium and Phosphorus in Bog Iron Ores from Poland
Authors: Kaczorek Danuta , Brümmer Gerhard W. , Sommer Michael
Published: April 2009

Bog iron ores are widespread in Polish wetland soils used as meadows or pastures. They are suspected to contain high concentrations of heavy metals, which are precipitated together with Fe along a redox gradient. Therefore, soils with bog iron ore might be important sources for a heavy metal transfer from meadow plants into the food chain. However, this transfer depends on the different binding forms of heavy metals. The binding forms were quantified by sequential extraction analysis of heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Cr, Co, Ni, Cd, Pb) as well as Al and P on 13 representative samples of bog iron ores from central and southwestern Poland. Our results showed total contents of Cr, Co, Ni, Zn, Cd, and Pb not to exceed the natural values for sandy soils from Poland. Only the total Mn was slightly higher. The highest contents of all heavy metals have been obtained in iron oxide fractions V (occluded in noncrystalline and poorly crystalline Fe oxides) and VI (occluded in crystalline Fe oxides). The results show a distinct relationship between the content of Fe and the quantity of Zn and Pb as well P. Water soluble as well as plant available fractions were below the detection limit in most cases. From this we concluded bog iron ores not to be an actual, important source of heavy metals in the food chain. However, a remobilization of heavy metals might occur due to any reduction of iron oxides in bog iron ores, for example, by rising groundwater levels.
Uncertainties in Data and Models to Describe Event Dynamics of Agricultural Sediment and Phosphorus Transfer
Authors: Krueger Tobias , Quinton John N. , Freer Jim , Macleod Christopher J.A. , Bilotta Gary S. , Brazier Richard E. , Butler Patricia , Haygarth Philip M.
Published: April 2009

Mathematical models help to quantify agricultural sediment and phosphorus transfers and to simulate mitigation of pollution. This paper develops empirical models of the dominant sediment and phosphorus event dynamics observed at high resolution in a drained and undrained, intensive grassland field‐scale lysimeter (1 ha) experiment. The uncertainties in model development and simulation are addressed using Generalized Likelihood Uncertainty Estimation. A comparison of suspended solids (SS) and total phosphorus (TP) samples with a limited number of manual repeats indicates larger data variability at low flows. Quantitative uncertainty estimates for discharge (Q) are available from another study. Suspended solids–discharge (SS‐Q) hysteresis is analyzed for four events and two drained and two undrained fields. Hysteresis loops differ spatially and temporally, and exhaustion is apparent between sequential hydrograph peaks. A coherent empirical model framework for hysteresis, where SS is a function of Q and rate of change of Q, is proposed. This is evaluated taking the Q uncertainty into account, which can contribute substantially to the overall uncertainty of model simulations. The model simulates small hysteresis loops well but fails to simulate exhaustion of SS sources and flushing at the onset of events. Analysis of the TP–SS relationship reveals that most of the variability occurs at low flows, and a power‐law relationship can explain the dominant behavior at higher flows, which is consistent across events, fields, and pathways. The need for further field experiments to test hypotheses of sediment mobilization and to quantify data uncertainties is identified.
Predictions of Spatially Averaged Cadmium Contents in Rice Grains in the Fuyang Valley, P.R. China
Authors: Brus Dick J. , Li Zhibo , Song Jing , Koopmans Gerwin F. , Temminghoff Erwin J. M. , Yin Xuebin , Yao Chunxia , Zhang Haibo , Luo Yongming , Japenga Jan
Published: April 2009

Soils in the Fuyang valley (Zhejiang province, southeast China) have been contaminated by heavy metals. Since rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the dominant crop in the valley and because of its tendency to accumulate Cd in its grains, assessment of the human health risk resulting from consumption of locally produced rice is needed. In this study, we used a regression model to predict the average Cd content in rice grains for paddy fields. The multiple linear model for log(Cd) content in rice grains with log(HNO3–Cd), pH, log(clay), and log(soil organic matter, SOM) as predictors performed much better (R2adj = 66.1%) than the model with log(CaCl2–Cd) as a single predictor (R2adj = 28.1%). This can be explained by the sensitivity of CaCl2–extracted Cd for changes in redox potential and as a result of the drying of the soil samples in the laboratory. Consequently, the multiple linear model was used to predict the average Cd contents in rice grains for paddy fields, and to estimate the probability that the FAO/WHO standard of 0.2 mg kg−1 will be exceeded. Eleven blocks had a probability smaller than 10% of exceeding this standard (safe blocks). If a lognormal distribution is assumed, 35 blocks had a probability larger than 90% (blocks at risk). Hence, risk reduction measures should be undertaken for the blocks at risk. For 27 blocks the probability was between 10 and 90%. For these blocks the uncertainty should be reduced via improvement of the regression model and/or increasing the number of sample locations within blocks.
On the Adsorption of Tetracycline by Calcined Magnesium‐Aluminum Hydrotalcites
Authors: Xu Zhaoyi , Fan Jie , Zheng Shourong , Ma Feifei , Yin Daqiang
Published: April 2009

Exploiting effective sorbents for antibiotic adsorption is highly desirable for the elimination of ecological risks from antibiotic contamination. In this study, MgAl‐CO32– hydrotalcites with different Mg/Al molar ratios were prepared and tetracycline (TC) adsorption to the hydrotalcites and calcined hydrotalcites was investigated by batch experiments. Calcined hydrotalcites had higher adsorption capacities compared to MgAl‐CO32– hydrotalcites. At low TC equilibrium concentrations, calcined hydrotalcites with differing Mg/Al ratios showed approximately identical TC uptakes. However, at high tetracycline concentration, greater TC adsorption capacity was observed for calcined hydrotalcite having a high Mg/Al ratio (i.e., 4.4). X‐ray diffraction (XRD) characterization showed the presence of Mg‐Al oxide solid solution in TC ‐loaded calcined hydrotalcite, suggesting that suspension of the calcined product in water and adsorption of TC had led to only partial reconstruction of the layered structure. We hypothesize that TC was adsorbed on the MgO surface at high equilibrium concentrations. The behavior of TC adsorption on the calcined hydrotalcite was well described by a dual adsorption model. Kinetic analysis suggested that at low adsorption levels, TC adsorption by calcined hydrotalcite could be modeled by both a pseudo second‐order kinetics model and a nucleation‐growth model. The present work demonstrates that calcined hydrotalcites may be promising adsorbents for effective removal of TC from water resources.
Simulation of Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Product Transport to Tile Drains after Biosolids Application
Authors: Larsbo Mats , Lapen David R. , Topp Edward , Metcalfe Chris , Abbaspour Karim C. , Fenner Kathrin
Published: April 2009

Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) carried in biosolids may reach surface waters or ground water when these materials are applied as fertilizer to agricultural land. During preferential flow conditions created by land application of liquid municipal biosolids (LMB), the residence time of solutes in the macropores may be too short for sorption equilibration. The physically based dual‐permeability model MACRO is used in environmental risk assessments for pesticides and may have potential as an environmental risk assessment tool for PPCPs. The objective of this study was to evaluate MACRO and an updated version of MACRO that included non‐equilibrium sorption in macropores using data from experiments conducted in eastern Ontario, Canada on the transport of three PPCPs (atenolol, carbamazepine, and triclosan), the nicotine metabolite cotinine, and the strongly sorbing dye rhodamine WT applied in LMB. Results showed that the MACRO model could not reproduce the measured rhodamine WT concentrations (Nash‐Sutcliffe coefficient [NS] for the best simulation = −0.057) in drain discharge. The updated version resulted in better fits to measured data for PPCP (average NS = 0.97) and rhodamine WT (NS = 0.84) concentrations. However, it was not possible to simulate all compounds using the same set of hydraulic parameters, which indicates that the model does not fully account for all relevant processes. The results presented herein show that non‐equilibrium sorption in macropores has a large impact on simulated solute transport for reactive compounds contained in LMB. This process should be considered in solute transport models that are used for environmental risk assessments for such compounds.
Storm Water Pollutant Removal Performance of Compost Filter Socks
Authors: Faucette L.B. , Cardoso‐Gendreau F.A. , Codling E. , Sadeghi A.M. , Pachepsky Y.A. , Shelton D.R.
Published: April 2009

In 2005, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) National Menu of Best Management Practices (BMPs) listed compost filter socks (FS) as an approved BMP for controlling sediment in storm runoff on construction sites. The objectives of this study were to determine if FS with or without the addition of a flocculation agent to the FS system can significantly remove (i) suspended clay and silt particulates, (ii) ammonium nitrogen (NH4–N) and nitrate‐nitrite nitrogen (NO3–N), (iii) fecal bacteria, (iv) heavy metals, and (v) petroleum hydrocarbons from storm water runoff. Five separate (I–V) 30‐min simulated rainfall‐runoff events were applied to soil chambers packed with Hartboro silt loam (fine‐loamy, mixed, active, nonacid, mesic fluvaquentic Endoaquepts) or a 6‐mm concrete veneer on a 10% slope, and all runoff was collected and analyzed for hydraulic flow rate, volume, pollutant concentrations, pollutant loads, and removal efficiencies. In corresponding experiments, runoff was analyzed for (i) size of sediment particles, (ii) NH4–N and NO3–N, (iii) total coliforms (TC) and Escherichia coli, (iv) Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn, and (v) gasoline, diesel, and motor oil, respectively. Results showed that: (i) FS removed 65% and 66% of clay (<0.002 mm) and silt (0.002–0.05 mm), respectively; (ii) FS removed 17%, and 11% of NH4–N and NO3–N, respectively and when NitroLoxx was added to the FS, removal of NH4–N load increased to 27%; (iii) total coliform and E. coli removal efficiencies were 74 and 75%, respectively, however, when BactoLoxx was added, removal efficiency increased to 87 and 99% for TC and 89 and 99% for E. coli, respectively; (iv) FS removal efficiency for Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn ranged from 37 to 72%, and, when MetalLoxx was added, removal efficiency ranged from 47 to 74%; and (v) FS removal efficiency for the three petroleum hydrocarbons ranged from 43 to 99% and the addition of PetroLoxx increased motor oil and gasoline removal efficiency in the FS system.
Soil Nitrogen Balance under Wastewater Management: Field Measurements and Simulation Results
Authors: Sophocleous Marios , Townsend Margaret A. , Vocasek Fred , Ma Liwang , KC Ashok
Published: April 2009

The use of treated wastewater for irrigation of crops could result in high nitrate‐nitrogen (NO3–N) concentrations in the vadose zone and ground water. The goal of this 2‐yr field‐monitoring study in the deep silty clay loam soils south of Dodge City, Kansas, was to assess how and under what circumstances N from the secondary‐treated, wastewater‐irrigated corn reached the deep (20–45 m) water table of the underlying High Plains aquifer and what could be done to minimize this problem. We collected 15.2‐m‐deep soil cores for characterization of physical and chemical properties; installed neutron probe access tubes to measure soil‐water content and suction lysimeters to sample soil water periodically; sampled monitoring, irrigation, and domestic wells in the area; and obtained climatic, crop, irrigation, and N application rate records for two wastewater‐irrigated study sites. These data and additional information were used to run the Root Zone Water Quality Model to identify key parameters and processes that influence N losses in the study area. We demonstrated that NO3–N transport processes result in significant accumulations of N in the vadose zone and that NO3–N in the underlying ground water is increasing with time. Root Zone Water Quality Model simulations for two wastewater‐irrigated study sites indicated that reducing levels of corn N fertilization by more than half to 170 kg ha−1 substantially increases N‐use efficiency and achieves near‐maximum crop yield. Combining such measures with a crop rotation that includes alfalfa should further reduce the accumulation and downward movement of NO3–N in the soil profile.
Greenhouse Gas Microbiology in Wet and Dry Straw Crust Covering Pig Slurry
Authors: Hansen Rikke R. , Nielsen Daniel Aa. , Schramm Andreas , Nielsen Lars P. , Revsbech Niels P. , Hansen Martin N.
Published: April 2009

Liquid manure (slurry) storages are sources of gases such as ammonia (NH3) and methane (CH4). Danish slurry storages are required to be covered to reduce NH3 emissions and often a floating crust of straw is applied. This study investigated whether physical properties of the crust or crust microbiology had an effect on the emission of the potent greenhouse gases CH4 and nitrous oxide (N2O) when crust moisture was manipulated (“dry”, “moderate”, and “wet”). The dry crust had the deepest oxygen penetration (45 mm as compared to 20 mm in the wet treatment) as measured with microsensors, the highest amounts of nitrogen oxides (NO2− and NO3−) (up to 36 μmol g−1 wet weight) and the highest emissions of N2O and CH4 Fluorescent in situ hybridization and gene‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used to detect occurrence of bacterial groups. Ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria (AOB) were abundant in all three crust types, whereas nitrite‐oxidizing bacteria (NOB) were undetectable and methane‐oxidizing bacteria (MOB) were only sparsely present in the wet treatment. A change to anoxia did not affect the CH4 emission indicating the virtual absence of aerobic methane oxidation in the investigated 2‐mo old crusts. However, an increase in N2O emission was observed in all crusted treatments exposed to anoxia, and this was probably a result of denitrification based on NOx− that had accumulated in the crust during oxic conditions. To reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions, floating crust should be managed to optimize conditions for methanotrophs.
Sources and Transformations of Nitrate from Streams Draining Varying Land Uses: Evidence from Dual Isotope Analysis
Authors: Burns Douglas A. , Boyer Elizabeth W. , Elliott Emily M. , Kendall Carol
Published: April 2009

Knowledge of key sources and biogeochemical processes that affect the transport of nitrate (NO3−) in streams can inform watershed management strategies for controlling downstream eutrophication. We applied dual isotope analysis of NO3− to determine the dominant sources and processes that affect NO3− concentrations in six stream/river watersheds of different land uses. Samples were collected monthly at a range of flow conditions for 15 mo during 2004–05 and analyzed for NO3− concentrations, δ15NNO3, and δ18ONO3 Samples from two forested watersheds indicated that NO3− derived from nitrification was dominant at baseflow. A watershed dominated by suburban land use had three δ18ONO3 values greater than +25‰, indicating a large direct contribution of atmospheric NO3− transported to the stream during some high flows. Two watersheds with large proportions of agricultural land use had many δ15NNO3 values greater than +9‰, suggesting an animal waste source consistent with regional dairy farming practices. These data showed a linear seasonal pattern with a δ18ONO3:δ 15NNO3 of 1:2, consistent with seasonally varying denitrification that peaked in late summer to early fall with the warmest temperatures and lowest annual streamflow. The large range of δ 15NNO3 values (10‰) indicates that NO3− supply was likely not limiting the rate of denitrification, consistent with ground water and/or in‐stream denitrification. Mixing of two or more distinct sources may have affected the seasonal isotope patterns observed in these two agricultural streams. In a mixed land use watershed of large drainage area, none of the source and process patterns observed in the small streams were evident. These results emphasize that observations at watersheds of a few to a few hundred km2 may be necessary to adequately quantify the relative roles of various NO3− transport and process patterns that contribute to streamflow in large basins.
Sediment Contamination and Faunal Communities in Two Subwatersheds of Mona Lake, Michigan
Authors: Cooper Matthew J. , Rediske Richard R. , Uzarski Donald G. , Burton Thomas M.
Published: April 2009

Urbanization of watersheds can impose multiple stressors on stream, wetland, and lake ecosystems. Sediment contamination, alterations to the natural hydrologic regime, and nutrient loading are examples of these stressors which often occur simultaneously. As a consequence, restoration is challenged by the multi‐stressor reality of most urban watersheds. The goal of this study was to compare two watersheds in western Michigan, both with substantial urban development, but with different levels of sediment contamination resulting from historic industrial activities, to determine the effects of contamination on invertebrate and fish community structure. The study included multiple sites on both streams, two wetlands adjacent to each stream, and the embayments where each stream emptied into Mona Lake. We compared a suite of abiotic parameters including sediment contamination, sediment toxicity, and water column chemical/physical conditions as well as fish and invertebrate community structure. Sediment contaminants, including heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, were found in higher concentrations and survival of test organisms in toxicity bioassays was reduced in the more industrialized watershed. Fewer insect taxa, especially the sensitive Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera, were found in the more industrialized system. Fish taxa richness and catch per unit effort were reduced in the wetlands of the more industrialized watershed as well and both invertebrate and fish index of biotic integrity scores were also lower in the more industrialized system. Our study demonstrates that contamination due to historic industrial activities can have substantial and lasting effects on biotic communities of multiple habitat types well downstream of where the activities occurred.
Density-Dependent Individual and Population-Level Metabolic Rates in a Suite of Single-Celled Eukaryotes
Authors: P. DeLong John , T. Hanson David
Published: April 2009

Population level metabolic rates are by definition the sum of the individual metabolic rates within a population.
Several studies have used estimates of individual metabolic rates to scale up metabolic activity of individuals to populations
or whole communities. However, for aquatic single-celled organisms, individual metabolic rate is related to percapita
resource availability, and accounting for this fact is essential for obtaining accurate estimates of population- or
community-level metabolism. We frame the problem with a simple model of resource division that predicts per capita
metabolic rate should decline with increasing density. We allow the magnitude of density-dependence to be adjusted by
intraspecific competition, from perfectly dependent to completely independent of density. Our results demonstrate that
per-capita metabolic rate of single-celled eukaryotes is indeed inversely related to density via the per-capita availability of
resources, and this has a significant effect on population-level metabolic rates. Suppression of individual metabolic rate
occurred up to an order of magnitude, and although this magnitude of suppression has been seen in starved protists, our
results indicate that a broad continuum of density-dependence governs the resource-dependent variability in metabolic
rates for these organisms. The species we used cover a range of resource acquisition modes and phylogenies, suggesting
that density-dependence of metabolic rate may be widespread in aquatic unicells.
Bacterial 16S rRNA/rDNA Profiling in the Liquid Phase of Human Saliva
Authors: Gu F , Li Y , Zhou C , Wong D.T.W , Ho C.M , Qi F , Shi W
Published: April 2009

Human saliva can be separated by centrifugation into cell pellet and cell-free supernatant, which are called cellular phase and liquid phase in this study. While it is well documented that the cellular phase of saliva contains hundreds of oral bacteria species, little is known whether the liquid phase of saliva contains any information related to oral microbiota. In this study, we analyzed the bacterial nucleic acid contents of the liquid phase of saliva. Using primers universal to most eubacterial 16S rDNA, we detected large amounts of bacterial 16S rRNA and rDNA in the cell-free phase of saliva. Random sequencing analysis of forty PCR amplicons from the cell-free phase of saliva led to 15 operational taxonomic unit (OTU) groups. Furthermore, using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), we compared 16S rRNA/rDNA profiles derived from liquid phases and cellular phases of saliva samples, and found positive correlations (Pearson Correlation=0.822,P<0.001) between these sample groups. These findings indicate that the liquid phase of saliva contains numerous bacterial 16S rRNA/rDNA molecules that have correlations with bacteria existing in the cellular phase.
Effects of Atmospheric Pollutants on Children Asthma Outbreaks
Authors: Zion Garty Ben , Kosman Evsey , Ganor Eliezer , Alon Niv , Kibilis Neta , Garty Joseph , Mimouni Marc , Waise Yoav
Published: April 2009

The effects of air pollutants, weather conditions, airborne pollen and spores on the incidence of emergency room (ER) visits of children for acute asthma attacks were investigated.

One-year retrospective study was done. Data on daily concentrations of air pollutants, airborne allergens and weather conditions were collected and compared with the ER visits of 2431 asthmatic children (age 1-18 years) in the Schneider Medical Center, near Tel Aviv.

ER visits of asthmatic children showed a negative correlation with the measured O3 concentrations and with extreme ambient temperatures. A positive correlation was found with high barometric pressure with NO2 and SO2 concentrations. An exceptionally high incidence of ER visits of asthmatic children was observed during September, coinciding with the beginning of the school year. When September was excluded from the annual calculations the correlation between ER visits and environmental factors increased. 49% of the variance of ER visits were explained by O3 alone, 46% by NO2 alone, 54% by O3+NO2, and 31% by weather parameters. 58% of the variation was explained by the combination of air pollutants and weather parameters. Airborne particulates did not show any meaningful correlation with ER visits.

The major factors associated with severe asthma attacks were high NO2 and SO2. The negative correlation with O3 implies that at certain concentrations, O3 may have a beneficial effect. The particularly high number of ER visits at the beginning of the school year was presumably associated with an increase in viral infections combined with emotional stresses.
Toward Computer-Aided Affective Learning Systems: A Literature Review
Authors: Moridis C. N. , Economides A. A.
Published: April 2009

The aim of this survey is to provide an overview of the various components of “computer aided affective learning systems.” The research is classified into 3 main scientific areas that are integral parts of the development of these kinds of systems. The three main scientific areas are: I) emotions and their connection to learning; ii) affect recognition; and iii) emotional instruction and design. Affective learning instructional technology is a new, multi-disciplinary research area, which has been developed during the last decade. This article depicts the development of the core relevant areas and describes the concerns.