bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of High-Temperature Steam Oxidation Kinetics Under LWR Accident Conditions: Zircaloy-4 Versus Austenitic Stainless Steel No. 1.4970
Authors: Leistikow S
Published: December 2008

A comparative study of the oxidation behavior of Zircaloy-4 versus austenitic stainless steel No. 1.4970 was performed in high-temperature steam. Nuclear reactor-type tube sections of both materials were exposed on both sides to superheated steam at temperatures ranging from 600 to 1300°C for up to 6 h. The specimens were evaluated by gravimetry, metallography, and other methods. The results are presented in terms of weight gain, corresponding metal consumption, and wall penetration as functions of time and temperature. The two materials behaved similarly in that the faster oxidation of the thicker Zircaloy-4 cladding consumed the total wall thickness in a time equivalent to the slower oxidation of the thinner stainless steel cladding. Besides oxide scale formation, oxygen diffusion into the bulk of the metal formed various oxygen-containing phases, which together influence the mechanical cladding properties. Remarkable swelling of tube dimensions was caused by oxidation.
A Comparison of Crack-Mouth Opening and Load-Line Displacement for J-Integral Evaluation Using Bend Specimens
Authors: Faucher B , Tyson WR
Published: December 2008

The measurement of the displacement at the crack mouth of three-point bend specimens is compared to the measurement of load-line displacement for crack-length and J-integral evaluation. For crack-length determination by the unloading technique, the correction that must be made when using a clip gage mounted on knife edges is derived from load-line and crack-mouth opening displacements expressed as a function of crack length. Experimental results with tough steels show excellent agreement between the crack lengths determined by the two types of displacement measurements. The J integral can be evaluated using either method. The agreement between the two methods of J evaluation depends essentially on the evaluation of crack length. It is concluded that the J integral may be measured easily with a clip gage mounted at the crack mouth of three-point bend specimens.
Compression Characteristics of Concrete Block Masonry Prisms
Authors: Wong HE , Drysdale RG
Published: December 2008

This paper reports the results of part of a test series to establish stress-strain relationships for hollow, solid, and grout filled concrete block masonry. Included as part of the discussion of the interpretation of previous test programs is a comparison of the influence of the use of prisms with heights of two, three, four, and five blocks. Using the four-block-high prism as the standard, the average moduli of elasticity and the shape of the stress-strain relationship to failure are determined for the hollow, solid, and grouted cases for compression normal to the bed joint and parallel to the bed joint. Strengths for compression normal to the head joint are approximately 25% lower than for compression normal to the bed joint. In addition, strengths for grouted and solid prisms are approximately 35% lower than for hollow blocks. The moduli of elasticity also vary in nearly the same proportions.
Brick Masonry Wall Nonperformance Causes
Authors: Raths CH
Published: December 2008

The paper reviews and discusses typical nonperforming characteristics of brick masonry walls in regards to brick and mortar water penetrations, durability, and efflorescence. Factors associated with nonperformance are design, specifications, ASTM requirements for masonry, and construction workmanship. Typical nonperforming conditions are presented and methods used to evaluate brick masonry wall performance are given. Recommendations are offered to prevent nonperformance.
Durability of Brick Masonry: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Grimm CT
Published: December 2008

The paper summarizes the engineering literature published in English since 1900 on the durability of brick masonry. Destructive agents, mechanics of destruction, porosity, freeze-thaw resistance, mortar properties, florescence, environment, architectural engineering, brick specifications, construction, and maintenance are discussed. Bibliographies with a total of 228 entries are provided on the durability of brick, masonry, brick masonry, mortar, and florescence. Manufacturing quality control is not considered.
Comparison of Laboratory and Field Assessment of Fluorence—Part I: Effects of Fluorence on the Survival, Growth, Reproduction, and Behavior of Aquatic Organisms in Laboratory Tests
Authors: Finger SE , Little EF , Henry MG , Fairchild JF , Boyle TP
Published: December 2008

Static toxicity tests were conducted with the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon fluorene on daphnids (Daphnia magna), larval midges (Chironomus riparius), amphipods (Gammarus pseudolimnaeus), snails (Mudalia potosensis), mayflies (Hexagenia bilineata), bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus), rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri), fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas), aquatic macrophytes (Chara sp.), and green algae (Selanastrum capricornutum). Daphnia magna was the most sensitive organism tested with a 48-h median effective concentration (EC50) of 0.43 mg/L. Fathead minnows were the least sensitive species, with no mortality at fluorene concentrations as high as 100 mg/L. In a 14-day test, fluorene exposure inhibited algal production at a threshold level of approximately 3.0 mg/L.

Complete life cycle chronic toxicity tests were conducted with fluorene on daphnids and larval midges. Daphnid reproduction was significantly reduced at fluorene levels of 0.125 mg/L after 14 days. Emergence of larval midges was delayed at a concentration of 0.6 mg/L.

In a 30-day partial life cycle study that was conducted to determine the impact of fluorene on growth, survival, and behavior of fingerling bluegill, survival was reduced at exposures of 0.5 and 1.0 mg/L and growth was inhibited at exposures of 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg/L. Measurements of several behavioral characteristics indicated impairment of swimming and feeding activities at fluorene concentrations as low as 0.12 mg/L. Vulnerability of bluegill to predation was also increased by fluorene exposure. Results of these behavioral tests indicated that fish were adversely affected at fluorene levels below those predicted by the standard chronic toxicity measurements of growth and survival.
Standard Room Fire Test Development at the National Bureau of Standards
Authors: Lee BT
Published: December 2008

Research results with the proposed ASTM standard room fire test for interior finish materials are presented. The materials selected for the study were two untreated plywoods, a fire-retarded plywood, polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, and gypsum board. Three 900-s duration test scenarios were considered. Scenario A is a constant nominal 160-kW ignition source exposure. Scenario B achieves the same maximum exposure after three intervals of 30 s each in which the heat release rate is increased in equal steps of 40 kW. Scenario C evaluates a material over a 300-s exposure at a nominal 40 kW, with another 300-s exposure at a nominal 160 kW, followed by 300 s at zero exposure. This zero exposure allows the material to be screened for self-burning properties afterwards. The study demonstrated that all three scenarios could adequately differentiate material fire behavior, in terms of the maximum degree of fire buildup attained and the time to reach the maximum, for the materials selected. However, Scenario C would allow a more comprehensive evaluation of materials.

Thermal radiation incident on the floor and doorway air temperature were found to be the most consistent parameters for determining room fire buildup including room flashover. Surface flame spread and rate of heat release are discussed for the room fires.
Effect of Diet on the Sensitivity of Daphnia magna to Linear Alkylbenzene Sulfonate
Authors: Taylor MJ
Published: December 2008

Laboratory cultures of Daphnia magna were maintained in hard well water and fed one of five different diets. Algal diets, trout chow diets, and diets combining algae and trout chow were evaluated.

The acute toxicity (48-h LC50) of C11.8 LAS (linear alkylbenzene sulfonate) to D. magna reared on the five different diets ranged between 3.6 and 4.7 mg/L. For daphnids that were fed during the acute test, the LC50s ranged between 4.4 and 8.1 mg/LLAS. The addition of food to the acute test generally increased the LC50.

Diet had a statistically significant effect on the sensitivity of D. magna to the chronic toxicity of LAS. Chronic no-observed effect concentrations (NOECs) varied about three-fold (1.2 to 3.2 mg/L) and 21-day LC50s about two-fold (2.2 to 4.7 mg/L) for daphnids fed the five diets. Survival was generally the most sensitive indicator of chronic effects. Food concentration also had a significant effect on the response of D. magna to the chronic effects of LAS. Daphnia cultures receiving lower concentrations of food were less sensitive to LAS than Daphnia cultures receiving higher food concentrations.

Diet had at most a three-fold effect on the results of Daphnia toxicity tests. A three-fold variability can be expected in Daphnia toxicity tests themselves. Therefore use of any of the diets in this study should not affect the utility of the test results in assessing the environmental effects of detergent chemicals such as LAS.
Effect of Iron and Zinc Interaction on Algal Communities
Authors: Wang W
Published: December 2008

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of iron and zinc interaction on algal communities. Algal samples from three sources were used: Peoria, Farmington, and Princeton, all in Illinois. In general, it was found that zinc is much more toxic than iron. In the case of the Peoria samples, the effect of iron and zinc interaction was noninteractive in one case and antagonistic in another. In the case of the Farmington samples, these two metals are noninteractive against algal growth. To the Princeton samples, iron and zinc are synergistic.
Phoxocephalid Amphipod Bioassay for Marine Sediment Toxicity
Authors: Swartz RC , DeBen WA , Jones JKP , Lamberson JO , Cole FA
Published: December 2008

The relative toxicity of marine sediment can be accurately determined through acute, static bioassays with the phoxocephalid amphipod Rhepoxynius abronius. Mortality and sublethal effects on emergence from sediment and reburial behavior are determined after ten day exposure in 1-L beakers containing 175 mL of test sediment, 775 mL of seawater (25 ppt, 15°C), and 20 amphipods. Response of amphipods to test sediment is compared with response in control sediment collected from the species' natural habitat. Mean survival under control conditions is 95%. With five replicates the bioassay is 75% certain of detecting statistical significance when mean survival is reduced by 15%. The method can be applied to a great variety of sediment types because of the tolerance of R. abronius to a broad range of sediment grain sizes and levels of organic enrichment. The bioassay can be applied to determine (1) the toxicity of sediment subject to regulatory decision (e.g., dredging or disposal), (2) the spatial distribution of sediment toxicity along pollution gradients or near point sources, and (3) the LC50 of contaminants added to unpolluted sediment. The species' sensitivity to low salinity limits the method to sediment from the coastal zone and lower portion of estuaries. A detailed description of the bioassay procedures is appended to this report.
Effect of Physicochemical Form on Copper Availability to Aquatic Organisms
Authors: Harrison FL
Published: December 2008

Copper concentration and speciation were determined in influent and effluent waters collected from eight power stations that used copper alloys in their cooling systems. Quantities of copper associated with particles, colloids, and organic and inorganic ligands differed with the site, season, and mode of operation of the station. Under normal operating conditions, the differences between influent and effluent waters were generally small, and most of the copper was in bound (complexed) species. However, copper was high in concentration and present in labile species during start-up of water circulation through some cooling systems and during changeover from an open- to a closed-cycle operation.

Copper sensitivity of selected ecologically and economically important aquatic organisms was also evaluated. Our primary emphasis was on acute effects and most of the testing was performed under controlled laboratory conditions. However, sublethal effects of copper on a population of bluegills living in a power station cooling lake containing water of low pH were also assessed. The toxic response to copper differed with the species and life stage of the animal and with the chemical form of copper in the water.
Monitoring Fatigue Damage in CFRP Using Acoustic Emission and Radiographic Techniques
Authors: C-G Gustafson , RB Seldén
Published: December 2008

Tension-tension fatigue tests (R = 0.05) have been performed on quasiisotropic (0/±45/90)s graphite/epoxy specimens. Results from the nondestructive monitoring of damage initiation and growth using both acoustic emission (AE) and X-ray radiography are presented. Damage development in the form of transverse cracking in the 90° plies and delamination at the −45/90 interfaces could be detected using both techniques. This shows that AE could be used as a nondestructive test method for detecting the onset and growth of transverse cracking and delamination in graphite/epoxy specimens.

Scanning electron microscopy was used for fractographic investigation of the delaminated surfaces.
Shear Strength Parameters Obtained from Static Cone Penetration Tests
Authors: Senneset K , Janbu N
Published: December 2008

Effective shear strength parameters may be obtained from cone penetration tests with pore-pressure measurements. The theoretical solutions presented below cover the interpretation of measurements in (1) sandy soils with drained conditions around the penetrating tip and (2) clayey soils with excess pore-pressure around the tip. A chart for approximate classification through point resistance and pore-pressure ratio is included. The method of interpretation is cone penetration tests in marine sediments and the results obtained are compared to laboratory test results on soil specimens from neighboring borings.
State of the Art: Laboratory Determination of the Strength of Marine Soils
Authors: Lee HJ
Published: December 2008

The steps and procedures used to obtain submarine sediment shear strengths from laboratory tests on samples are reviewed and evaluated. These steps and procedures include sampling, handling, testing, and interpretation. Sampling causes the most uncertainty through the introduction of varied amounts of coring disturbance. The selection of the appropriate test and testing strategy is next in importance. Laboratory vane shear and other strength index tests are reviewed in detail because they have dominated the field for many years even though the results therefrom often differ from field behavior by a factor of up to two or more. Advanced tests, including triaxial and direct simple shear are gaining popularity. Two common strategies for these tests are the normalized soil parameter (NSP) method and consolidation to in-place overburden stresses. Both strategies require high quality samples, but extending the NSP approach to somewhat disturbed samples often may be possible. Cyclic loading dominates marine geotechnical problems and requires special consideration. Cyclic triaxial and direct simple shear tests are being used together with several empirical rules for interpreting their significance. Calcareous and gas charged sediments are common in the oceans and have unique and poorly understood properties. For all soils, producing the best laboratory strength data requires high quality push sampling, preferably augmented with a piston.
Horizontal Subgrade Modulus of Granular Soils
Authors: Habibagahi K , Langer JA
Published: December 2008

Although the horizontal subgrade modulus plays a significant role in problems dealing with lateral-load carrying capacity of piles, a rather wide range of values is available in literature depending upon the equation, chart, or table used to obtain the modulus. This task is further complicated on account of lack of uniformity of definitions used. The accuracy of simple, let alone elaborate, methods of analysis for lateral-pile capacity is often controlled by the accuracy of the modulus value used in the computations. For many engineering computations, the engineer must strike a balance between a simple and an accurate enough procedure to obtain the modulus. One of the simplest ways of computing the modulus is by means of empirical and semiempirical relationships. In this paper, the available empirical and semiempirical relations for estimating the horizontal subgrade modulus of granular soils are reviewed, and then a simple relationship for computing the horizontal subgrade modulus of such soils is presented. The values of the modulus from the proposed relationship are compared with those given by others.
Fractographic Observations of Fatigue Crack Growth in a High-Strength Steel
Authors: Cheruvu NS
Published: December 2008

The effects of high-temperature austenitizing treatments (prior austenite grain size) and internal hydrogen on the fracture mode during fatigue crack growth studies in AISI 4340 steel have been investigated. The results show no correlation between the prior austenite grain size and reverse plastic zone at the maximum incidence of intergranular fracture in specimens without hydrogen. Fatigue striations were more often observed in the coarse-grained specimens austenitized at 1200°C. The presence of internal hydrogen resulted in predominantly intergranular fracture in the fine-grained specimens at low stress intensity ranges. However, the amount of intergranular fracture was inversely related to the prior austenite grain size. The fracture mode was predominantly intergranular at intermediate stress intensity ranges for all grain sizes. The results were discussed in terms of variations in plane strain fracture toughness with austenitizing temperature and hydrogen diffusion to the prior austenite grain boundaries.
A Definition for Asbestos
Authors: Ross M , Kuntze RA , Clifton RA
Published: December 2008

The authors present a definition for asbestos, based in part on discussions held during a workshop on this subject.
A Review of the European Meeting on Corrosion Under Lagging Held in England, November 1980
Authors: Richardson JA
Published: December 2008

The Meeting on Corrosion Under Lagging was sponsored by the Institution of Corrosion Science and Technology, the Thermal Insulation Manufacturers' and Suppliers' Association, and the Thermal Insulation Users' Liaison Group. Ten papers were read representing the interests of users, suppliers/contractors, consultants, and inspection engineers, and the abstracts of these papers are recorded in the appendix of this paper. Additionally, the themes, lessons, or perspectives arising out of the meeting are reviewed in the areas of corrosion phenomena/case histories; corrosivity of wet insulation/fireproofing; corrosion prevention using inhibited laggings, organic coatings, metallic foils, and paints and alloy fabrication/selection; and corrosion prevention through design, specification, inspection, and maintenance. Areas where a consensus emerged are highlighted.
Sampling and Analysis of Copper Cathodes
Authors: Tuddenham WM , Hibbeln RJ
Published: December 2008

Description

Discusses sampling and analyzing trace impurities in electrolytic copper cathodes. Papers evaluate present and potential procedures for sampling copper cathodes, including drilling, punching, strip sectioning, milling, and saw-cutting, and discuss methods of determining impurity levels and their accuracy.
New Concepts for Coating Protection of Steel Structures
Authors: Berger DM , Wint RF
Published: December 2008

Description

The papers in STP 841 are divided into two groups: surface technology concepts and applied coating systems and safety practices. This book includes discussion of high performance coatings that have been developed to replace alkyds and oil-based systems.
Semiconductor Processing
Authors: Gupta DC
Published: December 2008

Description

This volume addresses the problems in semiconductor technology that arise from rapid increase in device complexity and performance, the emergence of integrated systems-on-a-chip, automated factories, and silicon foundries. The book's theme is that the realization of acceptable yields and reliability will require greater manufacturing discipline from starting materials to finished devices. 51 papers cover crystal growth and epitaxial depositing, control of contaminants, material characterization defects, interconnection technology, ion implantation, and special processing techniques.
Chevron-Notched Specimens: Testing and Stress Analysis
Authors: Underwood JH , Freiman SW , Baratta FI
Published: December 2008

Description

Twenty papers in this volume are presented in three sections, including stress analysis, test method development, and fracture toughness measurements. One purpose of this volume, given the precracking and other differences in chevron-notched testing compared with existing tests, is to identify conditions that will yield reproducible results.
Elastic-Plastic Fracture Test Methods: The User's Experience
Authors: Loss FJ , Wessel ET
Published: December 2008

Description

Contains research papers and discussion sections on elastic-plastic fracture toughness test methods, including J-Integral R-Curve, tear instability, and crack-tip opening displacement approaches, identifies testing problems, suggests improvements, and considers new apparatus and techniques.
Quality Assurance for Environmental Measurements
Authors: Taylor JK , Stanley TW
Published: December 2008

Description

Discusses data quality assurance, ambient air measurements, ambient water measurements, source measurements, discharge monitoring, and reference materials. Includes a general paper on quality assurance programs and a detailed paper on the U.S. EPA's quality assurance program.
Fracture Mechanics: Sixteenth Symposium
Authors: Kanninen MF , Hopper AT
Published: December 2008

Description

Fifth-six peer-reviewed papers discuss: elastoplastic analysis; linear elastic analysis; temperature and environmental effects; elastoplastic experiments; fatigue crack growth; applications; dynamic fracture mechanics; and basic considerations.
High Modulus Fiber Composites in Ground Transportation and High Volume Applications
Authors: Wilson DW
Published: December 2008

Description

Focuses on the relationship between processing, materials microstructure, and the properties of the resulting high volume composite materials. Includes studies of the microstructural variability of sheet molding compounds, fiber orientation, thermoplastics, fatigue damage, graphite-epoxy composites, vicoelastic behavior, and thermosetting resins.
Pavement Maintenance and Rehabilitation
Authors: Kallas BF
Published: December 2008

Description

Describes procedures for detecting defects in pavements and critically reviews rehabilitation methods. Discusses equipment used for evaluation the safety and structural adequacy of pavements. Provides authoritative research findings that will improve pavement maintenance and increase cost effectiveness.
Corrosion Effect of Stray Currents and the Techniques for Evaluating Corrosion of Rebars in Concrete
Authors: Chaker V
Published: December 2008

Description

The symposium on the Corrosion Effect of Stray Currents and the Techniques for Evaluating Corrosion of Rebars in Concrete was presented at Williamsburg, VA, 28 Nov. 1984. The symposium was sponsored by ASTM Committee G01 on Corrosion of Metals. Victor Chaker, Gilbert Associates, Inc., presided as chairman of the symposium and is editor of this publication.
A Comparison of Seining and Electrofishing for Fish Community Bioassessment in a Mexican Atlantic Slope Montane River
Authors: Mercado-Silva Norman , Escandón-Sandoval David S.
Published: December 2008

Tropical freshwater fish monitoring and conservation strategies depend on data from surveys made with a variety of sampling methodologies. These methodologies have inherent biases that can lead to different data interpretations. We compared two commonly used sampling techniques—seining and electrofishing—in the calculation of community parameters and ecosystem bioassessment in a montane river in the Gulf of Mexico drainage in the state of Veracruz, Mexico. We specifically evaluated whether seining was sufficient for fish community assessment. Electrofishing produced higher estimates of species richness (45%), diversity (∼30%), and biomass (∼80%) than seining. It also produced higher biotic integrity scores. Species' relative abundance was generally similar for species captured with both techniques, but seines failed at capturing fast-swimming and benthic species. Thus, seining alone offered an incomplete perspective on the fish community and may not be adequate for bioassessment. Our results and methodology can help in the design of future survey efforts and the creation of correction factors that can aid managers to better sample biological communities and apply adequate conservation strategies.
A Life History Model for Peppered Chub, a Broadcast‐Spawning Cyprinid
Authors: Wilde Gene R. , Durham Bart W.
Published: December 2008

We estimated age‐specific fecundity and survival rates for peppered chub Macrhybopsis tetranema from the Canadian River, New Mexico and Texas. We used these estimates to construct a life history matrix model that assumed age‐0 survival was related to river discharge. Model predictions agreed well with the observed abundance of peppered chub for the 6‐year period from 1996 to 2001. Based on the Akaike information criterion, this model received greater support from observed catches of peppered chub than did two alternative null models (one null model assumed a static or fixed population and the other assumed a population with a constant growth rate over the 6‐year study period). Elasticity analysis showed that the peppered chub population growth rate was most sensitive to changes in age‐0 survival (elasticity = 0.48) and age‐1 fecundity (elasticity = 0.44). We performed sensitivity simulations to determine the effect of parameter uncertainty on the observed elasticities. Based on 1,000 simulations, we found that the peppered chub population growth rate was most sensitive to age‐0 survival and age‐1 fecundity and was robust with respect to uncertainty in our estimates of these parameters. Our model accurately predicts changes in peppered chub abundance based on river discharge and provides a mechanistic explanation for previous anecdotal observations indicating that the reproductive success of peppered chub is related to river discharge.
A Bioenergetics Model for Zander: Construction, Validation, and Evaluation of Uncertainty Caused by Multiple Input Parameters
Authors: Keskinen Tapio , Jääskeläinen Juha , Marjomäki Timo J. , Matilainen Tero , Karjalainen Juha
Published: December 2008

A bioenergetics model for zander Sander lucioperca was constructed using data from respirometer and feeding experiments to estimate temperature and mass‐specific functions of metabolic and food consumption (C) rates. Other parameters were taken from the literature. The model, together with a previously published model for walleyes S. vitreus (Kitchell et al. 1977) and its modification for zander (Salonen et al. 1996), was validated with independent feeding experiments in the laboratory and was field evaluated in two lakes by using mercury (Hg) as a marker. Both validation procedures gave high modeling efficiency, indicating that the model was able to predict zander C under field conditions. The effect of uncertainty in 29 input parameters on Hg concentration and C was estimated using the Latin hybercube sampling technique (a modified Monte Carlo approach that uses a form of stratified sampling). The simulation results showed that our model was rather insensitive to given uncertainties in input parameters. Parameters in respiration function were responsible for producing the highest uncertainty for C. Parameters in Hg balance model produced the highest uncertainty for Hg concentration. Furthermore, both output variables were sensitive to the activity multiplier, which supported earlier results on the central role of activity in bioenergetics models. The field test of our model with different growth rates and Hg concentrations indicated that in the long term, our experimentally measured routine metabolic rate satisfactorily described the activity of fish in the field. The original walleye model and its revision for zander underestimated zander C relative to the bioenergetics model developed here. Our new model offers a validated tool for estimating C and trophic impact of the zander population.
Relationship between Frequency of Skin Ulceration and Total Plasma Immunoglobulin Levels in Atlantic Menhaden from Delaware and Maryland Inland Bays
Authors: Evans Joyce J. , Klesius Phillip H. , Shelby Richard A. , Xu De‐Hai
Published: December 2008

In the summer and fall of 2000, a high prevalence of ulcerative skin lesions in Atlantic menhaden Brevoortia tyrannus from inland bays of Delaware and Maryland caused public and governmental concern. The relationship between the frequency of skin ulceration and total plasma immunoglobulin (Ig) levels was investigated for Atlantic menhaden from these inland bays in 2000 and 2001. Total plasma Ig levels were determined using goat anti‐menhaden Ig in an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Total plasma Ig levels were higher in nonulcerated fish (7.4 ± 0.02 mg/mL [mean ± SE]; n = 543) than in skin‐ulcerated ones (4.2 ± 0.42; n = 120). Skin ulcers were less frequent among small fish (67‐80 mm fork length; 6%) than in medium (81‐105 mm; 21%) or large fish (106‐190 mm; 27%). Nonulcerated large fish had higher total plasma Ig levels (8.5 ± 0.44 mg/mL) than nonulcerated small fish (6.1 ± 0.28) but not medium fish (7.9 ± 0.42). The total plasma Ig levels were higher in all sizes of fish in 2001 (8.9 ± 0.26) than in 2000 (3.6 ± 0.18). Conversely, the frequency of ulceration in fish sampled for Ig was lower in 2001 (8%) than in 2000 (33%). Although these findings suggest a possible association between lower mean total plasma Ig levels and higher frequency of skin ulceration, a cause‐and‐effect relationship was not established.
Thioredoxin-interacting protein: an oxidative stress-related gene is upregulated by glucose in human prostate carcinoma cells
Authors: Pang See-Tong , Hsieh Wen-Chi , Chuang Cheng-Keng , Chao Chun-Hsiang , Weng Wen-Hui , Juang Horng-Heng
Published: December 2008

Thioredoxin-interacting protein (TXNIP), also known as vitamin-D3 upregulated protein 1, interacts with reduced thioredoxin. This protein modulates the cellular redox state and plays a role in stress-induced cellular apoptosis. This study examined TXNIP gene expression in prostate cancer cells. In vitro studies by immunoblot assay have shown that elevated glucose levels (1–15 mM) upregulate TXNIP gene expression two- to fourfold in human prostate carcinoma cells (LNCaP) and hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2). Transient gene expression assays reveal that the promoter activity of the TXNIP gene is upregulated by glucose, 3-O-methylglucose, and maltose, but not by mannitol. These results suggest that glucose and 3-O-methylglucose induce TXNIP expression through both glucose metabolism-dependent and -independent pathways. Cotransfection of a plasmid expression carbohydrate response element-binding protein (ChREBP) with a TXNIP reporter vector into LNCaP cells dramatically enhances reporter activity in a low glucose (1 mM) condition. The effects of glucose are apparently mediated in a region located −341 to −324 bp upstream of the translational starting point of the TXNIP gene as indicated by 5′-deletion and site-directed mutagenesis reporter assays. Mutation of the putative carbohydrate response element (ChoRE) from CACGAGGGCAGCACGAG to TTTGAGGGCAGCACGAG abolishes glucose upregulation of TXNIP promoter activity. The present study demonstrates that TXNIP is transcription induced in both LNCaP and HepG2 cells in an increased glucose metabolism-dependent or -independent response, and a putative glucose regulatory system including ChREBP and ChoRE is needed for glucose-induced TXNIP gene in human prostate carcinoma cells.
Implant Failure Predictors in the Posterior Maxilla: A Retrospective Study of 273 Consecutive Implants
Authors: Huynh‐Ba Guy , Friedberg J.R. , Vogiatzi D. , Ioannidou Effie
Published: December 2008

Background: The goal of this study was to retrospectively analyze a cohort of 136 patients who underwent dental implant placement in the posterior maxilla at the University of Connecticut Health Center to assess and identify predictors for implant failure in the posterior maxilla.

Methods: Data were retrieved from patient charts to identify subjects older than 21 years of age who received dental implant(s) in the posterior maxilla. Patients without a postoperative baseline radiograph were excluded. A recall radiograph was taken 3 to 6 months after implant placement. If there was no recall radiograph, the subject was contacted for a recall visit that included a clinical evaluation and radiographs to determine the implant status. Based on a univariate screening, variables considered potential implant failure predictors included gender, diabetes, smoking, implant length, implant diameter, membrane use, sinus‐elevation technique, and surgical complications. These parameters were further assessed, and a multivariable logistic regression was performed with implant failure as a dependant variable. All tests of significance were evaluated at the 0.05 error level.

Results: Two hundred seventy‐three implants were placed in the posterior maxilla. Fourteen implants failed (early and late failures combined), resulting in a 94.9% overall survival rate. The survival rates for the sinus‐elevation group and native bone group were 92.2% and 96.7%, respectively (P = 0.090). Based on the multivariable analysis, sinus floor–elevation procedures were not associated with increased risk for implant failure (P = 0.702). In contrast, smoking and surgical complications had a statistically significant effect on implant failure; the odds ratios for implant failure were 6.4 (P = 0.025) and 8.2 (P = 0.004), respectively.

Conclusion: Sinus‐elevation procedures with simultaneous or staged implant placement do not increase the risk for implant failure, whereas smoking and surgical complications markedly increase the risk for implant failure.
Clinical Dimensions of the Supraosseous Gingivae in Healthy Periodontium
Authors: Perez Jose R. , Smukler Hyman , Nunn Martha E.
Published: December 2008

Background: To estimate the amount of supraosseous gingivae (SOG), the soft tissue height from the bone crest to the free gingival margin, that will reform after crown‐lengthening surgery, dental professionals have relied on a histologic mean dimension of 3 mm. This figure was derived from an autopsy study, and it represents the average of a significant range of values, from 0.0 to 6.5 mm. Other studies provided information on SOG dimensions; however, it seems that no clinical study in individuals without a history of periodontitis or attachment loss has been made that included all tooth types in the maxillary and mandibular arches. The main purpose of this investigation was to determine the clinical SOG dimensions around molar, premolar, canine, and incisor teeth in upper and lower jaws.

Methods: In 23 patients without a history of periodontal disease, incisor and canine (zone 1), premolar (zone 2), and molar (zone 3) SOG dimensions were measured by transsulcular probing (TSP) after injecting local anesthetic. The reliability of TSP to determine the SOG dimensions was established before any measurements were taken.

Results: Clinical overall (facial and palatal) maxillary SOG dimensions for zones 1, 2, and 3 were 3.66, 3.82, and 4.19 mm, respectively. Overall SOG measures for maxillary teeth varied by tooth type (P <0.001). Similarly, site‐level SOG measures varied by tooth type (P <0.02), except for mesial‐facial SOG measures of maxillary teeth (P = 0.051), which only approached significance. Clinical overall (facial and lingual) mandibular SOG dimensions for zones 1, 2, and 3 were 3.31, 3.62, and 3.89 mm, respectively. Overall SOG measures for mandibular teeth varied by tooth type (P <0.001). Similarly, site‐level SOG measures varied by tooth type (P <0.03), except for mesial‐facial and mid‐facial SOG measures of mandibular teeth (P = 0.074 and P = 0.144, respectively).

Conclusion: Clinical variation in SOG dimensions exists within patients for similar and different tooth types, arches, and surfaces.
Treatment of Intrabony Defects Using Guided Tissue Regeneration or Enamel Matrix Derivative: A 3‐Year Prospective Randomized Clinical Study
Authors: Crea Alessandro , Dassatti Leonardo , Hoffmann Oliver , Zafiropoulos Gregory‐George , Deli Giorgio
Published: December 2008

Background: The aim of this randomized, controlled, prospective clinical study was to compare guided tissue regeneration (GTR) to enamel matrix derivative (EMD) for the treatment of intrabony defects in patients with chronic advanced periodontitis.

Methods: Forty (39 evaluable) 3‐wall intrabony defects, each with a depth ≥4 mm measured from the crest of the bony defect, were treated in 40 subjects with advanced chronic periodontitis. Regeneration of angular bone defects was induced using non‐resorbable membranes (GTR group; n = 20) or EMD (EMD group; evaluable n = 19). Clinical parameters, including probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), gingival recession, radiographic measurement of the defect depth, plaque index, and bleeding on probing, were measured at baseline and at 12 and 36 months following surgery.

Results: Twelve months after surgery, sites treated with GTR demonstrated a mean CAL gain of 2.5 ± 1.2 mm and a mean reduction in PD of 3.5 ± 1.2 mm compared to baseline. The corresponding outcomes at 36 months were 2.0 ± 1.1 mm (CAL) and 3.2 ± 1.1 mm (PD). Sites treated with EMD demonstrated a mean CAL gain of 2.9 ± 1.4 mm and a mean reduction in PD of 3.5 ± 1.4 mm at 12 months, with a mean CAL gain of 2.4 ± 1.2 mm and a mean PD reduction of 3.1 ± 1.4 mm at 36 months. The differences in PD reduction and CAL gain were statistically significant between the groups and for each time point compared to baseline. Attachment loss was seen in both groups between the 12‐ and 36‐month observations. Measured radiographic bone fill was 57.0% ± 21% at 12 months and 53.7% ± 14.3% at 36 months in the GTR group compared to 50.5% ± 19% at 12 months and 58.8% ± 14.9% at 36 months in the EMD group.

Conclusions: The treatment of intrabony defects in patients with chronic advanced periodontitis using GTR or EMD led to significantly improved clinical parameters. Tests of statistical significance demonstrated better results with EMD, although the absolute differences between treatment modalities was small. Further studies with a larger number of treated defects are necessary to verify these findings.
Clinical Guidelines of the Italian Society of Periodontology for the Reconstructive Surgical Treatment of Angular Bony Defects in Periodontal Patients
Authors: Pagliaro Umberto , Nieri Michele , Rotundo Roberto , Cairo Francesco , Carnevale Gianfranco , Esposito Marco , Cortellini Pierpaolo , Pini‐Prato Giovanpaolo
Published: December 2008

Background: The purpose of these clinical guidelines, commissioned by the Italian Society of Periodontology and compiled with the tools and instructions of the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) collaboration, was to determine, in terms of efficacy, complications, and patient opinions, the most appropriate surgical techniques for periodontal patients with infrabony defects ≥3 mm.

Methods: Results published in the literature concerning open flap debridement (OFD), guided tissue regeneration (GTR) using a bioabsorbable or non‐resorbable membrane, regeneration of periodontal tissues using enamel matrix derivative (EMD), and bone or bone substitute grafts were searched (electronically and manually) and compared. The following variables were analyzed: number of teeth lost, variation in clinical attachment level (CAL gain), variation in probing depth (PD reduction), variation in gingival recession, variation in bony defect depth (bone gain), complications, and the functional and esthetic satisfaction of the patients. Literature searches were performed selecting randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews (SRs) of RCTs published through December 31, 2006 with ≥1 year of follow‐up. The full text of the selected SRs and RCTs were analyzed using checklists for qualitative evaluation according to the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) method.

Results: For the drafting of these guidelines, it was decided to accept the results of two SRs that compared OFD versus GTR, OFD versus EMD, and GTR versus EMD. With regard to efficacy, GTR and EMD can yield better results than OFD in terms of CAL gain (1.22 mm [P value <0.0001] and 1.20 mm [P value <0.0001], respectively), reduction of PD (1.21 mm [P = 0.0004] and 0.77 mm [P = 0.0001], respectively), and bone gain (1.39 and 1.08 mm, respectively) after ≥1 year of follow‐up. The available data are insufficient for an evaluation of bone or bone substitute grafts. The data in the literature are also insufficient for answering questions about complications and patient opinions.

Conclusions: The evidence reported in the literature indicates that it is advisable to treat infrabony defects ≥3 mm by OFD, GTR, and EMD. Further studies on these topics should be encouraged. There is a need for well‐conducted RCTs that report data on complications and patient opinions.
Nonclassical Transport Processes in Geologic Media: Review of Field and Laboratory Observations and Basic Physical Concepts
Authors: Bolshov Leonid , Kondratenko Peter , Pruess Karsten , Semenov Vladimir
Published: December 2008

We present an overview of the problem of solute transport in unsaturated heterogeneous media. We first review field and laboratory observations that demonstrate nonclassical flow and transport behavior. The main physical principles causing anomalous transport regimes in fractured rock media are identified. The basic factors and physical concepts needed to describe anomalous transport in saturated and unsaturated fractured rock are discussed in detail.
Estimation of Unsaturated Flow Parameters Using GPR Tomography and Groundwater Table Data
Authors: Farmani M. Bagher , Kitterød Nils‐Otto , Keers Henk
Published: December 2008

Flow parameters in the vadose zone of an ice‐contact delta near Oslo's Gardermoen Airport were estimated by inverse flow modeling combining time‐lapse ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) travel‐time (TT) tomography and groundwater (GW) table data. Natural water infiltration from the 2006 snowmelt was used as the upper boundary condition in forward flow simulations. The lower boundary condition was the outflux of water from the vadose zone derived by time derivative of the GW table. The inverse flow modeling was done using different combinations of time‐lapse GPR TT tomography and time series of the level of the GW table. The purpose was to assess the improvements in parameter estimations and the information value of the different data sets. Flow parameters estimated by conditioning only on time‐lapse GPR TT tomography capture the development of the wet front but fail to simulate the GW table fluctuations. Inverse flow modeling conditioned on only the GW table did not simulate the wet front correctly but decreased the objective function better than conditioning on time‐lapse GPR data. If the inversion is conditioned on both time‐lapse GPR data and the GW table fluctuations, the final estimates of the flow parameters are close to the estimates from the inversion conditioned on only GW table data. This result was obtained because the moving GW table was monitored continuously in time while the GPR data were sampled only three times during the infiltration event; thus, observations of the GW table had higher weights in the objective function than did observations derived from GPR tomograms. Finally, we did forward flow modeling with the estimated parameter sets and compared the flow paths with an independent tracer experiment performed at the field site in 1999. The results showed that anisotropy in the intrinsic permeability was an important parameter that should be considered when simulating the flow paths. However, volumetric soil water content distribution is not strongly related to the anisotropy of intrinsic permeability. Therefore, anisotropy cannot be correctly estimated by inverse flow modeling conditioned on volumetric soil water content only.
Effects of Indigenous Mulches on Growth and Yield of Tomato
Authors: Kayum MA , Asaduzzaman M , Haque MZ
Published: December 2008

Three popular tomato varieties namely, Ratan, BARI tomato-3 and BARI tomato-6 were experimentally evaluated to identify the potential mulch on growth and yield, where the experiment consisted of four mulching treatments viz. water hyacinth, straw, am-ada leaf and banana leaf with a control (no mulch). The experiment was conducted under rainfed condition. In the experiment, mulching showed significant effect on growth, yield components and thus on the yield of tomato. Yield contributing characters were significantly higher when water hyacinth mulch was used. The variety Ratan produced the highest (53.74 t/ha) fruit yield, while BARI tomato-3 showed the lowest (48.89 t/ha) fruit yield. The combination of mulching and variety exhibited significant variation in some yield components and yield. The combination of water hyacinth and Ratan produced the maximum yield (62.16 t/ha) and thus the experiment revealed that water hyacinth and straw mulches have potentiality to increase the yield of tomato. Key words: Indigenous mulch, growth, yield, tomato.doi:10.3329/jard.v6i1.1650 J Agric Rural Dev 6(1&2), 1-6, June 2008
Variability of Different Growth Contributing Parameters of Some Okra (Abelmoschus Esculentus L.) Accessions and Their Interrelation Effects on Yield
Authors: Alam AKMA , Hossain MM
Published: December 2008

The objectives of the study were to assess the variability of growth contributing characters of 50 okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) accessions and their interrelation effects on the yield of green pods. The experiment was undertaken at the Horticulture Farm of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during the period from February to May, 2002. There was a wide range of variation for spread of plant (43.73 cm), height of plant (80.90 cm) and length of petiole (12.31 cm). Moderate variation for number of nodes per plant (14.58), number of leaves per plant (24.51 at 80 DAS), length of leaf (12.20 cm), breadth of leaf (13.05 cm); and lesser variation for number of primary branches per plant (1.57) was observed. The yield of green pod varied significantly and ranged from 4.39 t/ha (accession 19) to 12.77 t/ha (accession 69) with the average value of 7.86 t/ha. Number of primary branches per plant, which showed a lesser range of variation, recorded the highest genotypic co-efficient of variation (GCV= 26.56%) and also the highest phenotypic co-efficient of variation (PCV = 32.37%). A moderate GCV and PCV were recorded in case of length of petiole (GCV = 14.24% and PCV = 15.95%), spread of plant (GCV = 12.00% and PCV = 13.06%), breadth of leaf (GCV = 9.81% and PCV = 12.41%) and length of leaf (GCV = 9.53% and PCV = 13.35%). These characters suggested the existence of justifiable genetic and phenotypic distance among different accessions. Correlation co-efficient between yield and growth contributing parameters indicated that yield of green pod had highly significant positive association with the number of nodes per plant. Path analysis of different growth contributing parameters showed that number of nodes per plant directly contributed towards the yield of green pod. Key words: Okra accessions, variability, growth parameters, GCV, PCV, path analysis. doi:10.3329/jard.v6i1.1654 J Agric Rural Dev 6(1&2), 25-35, June 2008