A controlled laboratory study was conducted to measure the dispersion effectiveness of Corexit 9500 on 23 different crude oils. This study was a part of a larger project initiated by the Bureau of Safety and Environme...A controlled laboratory study was conducted to measure the dispersion effectiveness of Corexit 9500 on 23 different crude oils. This study was a part of a larger project initiated by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) testing 20 oils to compare the predictive value of laboratory dispersant effectiveness tests with their larger scale test conducted at Ohmsett, BSEE’s national oil spill response test facility located in Leonardo, NJ. The test used in this study was the Baffled Flask Test (BFT), which is planned for adoption as EPA’s official testing protocol for listing commercial dispersant products on the National Contingency Plan Product Schedule, replacing the current Swirling Flask Test (SFT) [1]. In addition, the results of 3 additional oils, the 2 used in the SFT and BFT as currently written plus another reference oil, are presented. The temperature used for the tests was 15°C, to match the temperature used at Ohmsett. The dispersion effectiveness ranged from 3.4% to 93%. The BFT is a laboratory test with results that are inversely correlated with oil viscosity and therefore has predictive value in the decision to use a dispersant in the event of a spill.展开更多
Genetic linkage maps are valuable tools in evolutionary biology;however, their availability for wild populations is extremely limited. Fundulus heteroclitus (Atlantic killifish) is a non-migratory estuarine fish that ...Genetic linkage maps are valuable tools in evolutionary biology;however, their availability for wild populations is extremely limited. Fundulus heteroclitus (Atlantic killifish) is a non-migratory estuarine fish that exhibits high allelic and phenotypic diversity partitioned among subpopulations that reside in disparate environmental conditions. An ideal candidate model organism for studying gene-environment interactions, the molecular toolbox for F. heteroclitus is limited. We identified hundreds of novel microsatellites which, when combined with existing microsatellites and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), were used to construct the first genetic linkage map for this species. By integrating independent linkage maps from three genetic crosses, we developed a consensus map containing 24 linkage groups, consistent with the number of chromosomes reported for this species. These linkage groups span 2300 centimorgans (cM) of recombinant genomic space, intermediate in size relative to the current linkage maps for the teleosts, medaka and zebrafish. Comparisons between fish genomes support a high degree of synteny between the consensus F. heteroclitus linkage map and the medaka and (to a lesser extent) zebrafish physical genome assemblies.展开更多
Understanding the effectiveness of national air pollution controls is important for control policy design to improve the future air quality in China. This study evaluated the effectiveness of major national control po...Understanding the effectiveness of national air pollution controls is important for control policy design to improve the future air quality in China. This study evaluated the effectiveness of major national control policies implemented recently in China through a modeling analysis. The sulfur dioxide （SO2） control policy during the llth Five Year Plan period （2006-2010） had succeeded in reducing the national SO2 emission in 2010 by 14% from its 2005 level, which correspondingly reduced ambient SO2 and sulfate （SO42-） concentrations by 13%-15% and 8%-10% respectively over east China. The nitrogen oxides （NOx） control policy during the 12th Five Year Plan period （2011-2015） targets the reduction of the national NOx emission in 2015 by 10% on the basis of 2010. The simulation results suggest that such a reduction in NOx emission will reduce the ambient nitrogen dioxide （NO2）, nitrate （NO3-）, 1-hr maxima ozone （03） concentrations and total nitrogen deposition by 8%, 3%-14%, 2% and 2%--4%, respectively over east China. The application of new emission standards for power plants will further reduce the NO2, NO3-, 1-hr maxima 03 concentrations and total nitrogen deposition by 2%-4%, 1%-%, 0-2% and 1%-2%, respectively. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the inter-provincial impacts of emission reduction in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei and the Yangtze River Delta, which indicated the need to implement joint regional air pollution control.展开更多
The biodegradability of three alkylates （2,3-dimethylpentane, 2,4-dimethylpentane and 2,2,4-trimethylpentane） under less agitated aquifer conditions was investigated in this study. All three alkylates biodegraded co...The biodegradability of three alkylates （2,3-dimethylpentane, 2,4-dimethylpentane and 2,2,4-trimethylpentane） under less agitated aquifer conditions was investigated in this study. All three alkylates biodegraded completely under these conditions regardless of the presence or absence of ethanol or benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes （BTEX） in the feed. In the presence of ethanol, alkylates degradation was not inhibited by ethanol. However, alkylates degraded more slowly in the presence of BTEX suggesting competitive inhibition to microbial utilization of alkylates. In the sterile controls, alkylates concentrations remained unchanged throughout the experiments.展开更多
Predicting the spatial distribution of soil moisture is an important hydrological question. We measured the spatial distribution of surface soil moisture (upper 6 cm) using an Amplitude Domain Reflectometry sensor at ...Predicting the spatial distribution of soil moisture is an important hydrological question. We measured the spatial distribution of surface soil moisture (upper 6 cm) using an Amplitude Domain Reflectometry sensor at the plot scale (2 × 2 m) and small catchment scale (0.84 ha) in a temperate forest. The spatial variation of soil water content was higher during dry conditions than that during wet conditions. Results indicated 3.1 samples at the plot scale were sufficient to estimate mean soil water content when the precision was 0.1. Soil water content increased with increasing topographic index (TI) and soil-topographic index (STI) at the small catchment scale. The correlation between soil water content and TI was higher than that between soil water content and STI. This suggests that topography is more important for estimating surface soil moisture than soil depth as formation of surface soil moisture occurs at ≤6 cm.展开更多
Aquifer test methods have greatly improved in recent years with the advent of inverse analysis, derivative analysis, and diagnostic plots. Updated analyses of past aquifer tests allow for improved interpretations of t...Aquifer test methods have greatly improved in recent years with the advent of inverse analysis, derivative analysis, and diagnostic plots. Updated analyses of past aquifer tests allow for improved interpretations of the data to enhance the knowledge and the predictive capabilities of the flow system. This work thoroughly reanalyzes a series of pre- and post-hydraulic fracturing, single-well aquifer tests conducted in two crystalline rock wells in New Hampshire as part of an early 1970’s study. Previous analyses of the data had relied on older manual type-curve methods for predicting the possible effects of hydraulic fracturing. This work applies inverse analysis, derivative analysis, and diagnostic plots to reanalyze the 1970’s aquifer test data. Our results demonstrate that the aquifer tests were affected by changes in flow regimes, dewatering of the aquifer and discrete fractures, and changes due to well development. Increases in transmissivities are related to well development prior to hydraulic fracturing, propagation of a single, vertical fracture hydraulically connecting the two wells after stimulation and expansion of troughs of depression. After hydraulic fracturing, the estimated total yield of the individual wells increased by 2.5 times due to the hydraulic fracturing. However, the wells may be receiving water from the same source, and well interference may affect any significant increase in their combined yield. Our analyses demonstrate the value in applying inverse analysis, derivative analysis, and diagnostic plots over the conventional method of manual type-curve analysis. In addition, our improvement in the aquifer test interpretation of the 1970’s test data has implications for more reliable estimates of sustained well yields.展开更多
Fecal indicator bacteria concentrations, a measure of water pollution, do not remain static in the environment and can fluctuate both temporally and spatially. Diurnal variation, partially resulting from the effects o...Fecal indicator bacteria concentrations, a measure of water pollution, do not remain static in the environment and can fluctuate both temporally and spatially. Diurnal variation, partially resulting from the effects of UV light, may decrease the density of E. coli, resulting in lower concentrations in the afternoon. Previous studies conducted at 63rd Street Beach in Chicago, IL [1] and North Beach in Racine, WI [2] demonstrated significant diurnal variation using an E. coli standard and culture-based assays. Subsequent studies conducted at sewage-impacted Great Lakes beaches employing molecular assays (qPCR) found that the signal remained stable;it is unknown whether a similar scenario exists at non-sewage impacted beaches. During the summer of 2011, surface water samples were collected in the morning and afternoon (0700 and 1200) and analyzed by both IDEXX/Colilert and qPCR/BioGx SmartBeads/OmniMix HS to determine if temporal variation in E. coli was occurring (n = 29/23, culture/qPCR). Analysis of log-converted data (independent t-test/one-way ANOVA) indicated no significant difference in mean E. coli concentration as determined by morning and afternoon sampling via either method (Colilert/qPCR, p = 0.49/0.09, α = 0.05). Although not statistically significant (p = 0.09) there were 5 of 23 (22%) instances where afternoon qPCR values exceeded morning counterparts;two (10%) when culture-based assays did not show a similar response. The utility of rapid assays lies in their ability to generate results prior to beach opening;temporal or event-based fluctuations should be considered when using molecular assays at non-sewage impacted beaches for regulatory purposes.展开更多
Immunoassays are widely used biochemical techniques to detect microcystins in environmental samples. The use of immunoassays for the detection of microcystins is vulnerable to matrix components and other interferents....Immunoassays are widely used biochemical techniques to detect microcystins in environmental samples. The use of immunoassays for the detection of microcystins is vulnerable to matrix components and other interferents. This study is an evaluation of the effects of interfering substances commonly found in drinking and ambient water samples using commercially-available immunoassay kits for microcystin toxins. The microplate and strip test immunoassay formats were tested in the study. For the microplate ELISA, the following were found to inhibit microcystin-LR (MC-LR) detection: 250 μg/mL Ca2+ or Mg2+, 0.01% ascorbic acid, 0.1% EDTA chelating agent, 0.05 M glycine-HCl, pH 3. The following exhibited no effect: sodium chloride (NaCl, 1% to 4%) and sodium thiosulfate (0.001% and 0.01%), 0.01 to 0.1 M phosphate buffers (PB), pH 7 and 0.067 M PB at pH 5, 6, 7 and 8. Overall, up to 50 μg/mL of standard and reference natural organic matter (NOM) from various sources did not interfere in the assay system (without MC-LR) but diminished the detection of MC-LR at varying degrees. This is the first study evaluating standard and reference humic and fulvic acids from various sources in immunoassays for microcystins. The strip test also showed variable effects on MC-LR detection in the presence of NOM. This assay format was also sensitive to varying pHs and ionic strengths. MC-LR binding was inhibited at low pH (0.05 M glycine-HCl, pH 3), whereas, 0.067 M PB with pH 6, 7 and 8 can yield false positive results. Lower ionic strength of 0.01 M PB, pH 7 showed no interference in MC-LR binding whereas higher ionic strengths can interfere with MC-LR detection. NaCl at 3% and 4% can interfere with the analysis giving false positive results. Mg2+ at 50 and 250 μg/mL showed no effect on the analysis while the same concentration of Ca2+ can yield false positive results. The performance in marine, brackish and hard waters should be tested given the potential sensitivity to salinity. Results of this study may assist in the further refinement of existing assays and the development of practical antibody-based methods to clean-up samples and detect cyanotoxins in water.展开更多
Engineered nanomaterials are used in many applications, including pollution sensors, photovoltaics, medical imaging, drug delivery and environmental remediation. Due to their numerous applications, silver nanoparticle...Engineered nanomaterials are used in many applications, including pollution sensors, photovoltaics, medical imaging, drug delivery and environmental remediation. Due to their numerous applications, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are receiving a large amount of attention. Ag NPs may occur in drinking water sources either during manufacturing, consumption and/or disposal processes. This potentially leads to the presence of Ag NPs in finished drinking water, which could have public health impacts. The objective of this research was to investigate the removal of several types of stabilized Ag NPs by potable water treatment processes. Specifically, this research achieved these objectives through: 1) Synthesis of Citrate-reduced Ag NPs, Polyvinylpyrrolidone stabilized (PVP) Ag NPs and Branched polyethyleneimine stabilized (BPEI) Ag NPs, 2) Characterization of synthesized Ag NPs to determine their aggregation potential, Zeta potential profiles, (pHpzc) and obtain morphological data from SEM images, and 3) An evaluation of the efficacy of conventional water treatment processes (i.e., coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation and sand filtration) in removing stabilized Ag NPs from natural water. The three NPs were found to be stable at the nano size in natural water. Alum coagulation had no impact on the PVP and BPEI Ag NPs. Flocculation and settling were found to be key steps for removal of these NPs. The three Ag NPs were not permanently removed by means of conventional water treatment processes employed in this study.展开更多
Historically, Ukraine has been a major source of industrial production for the former Soviet Union and the source of pollution associated with an aging industrial infrastructure. The US Environmental Protection Agency...Historically, Ukraine has been a major source of industrial production for the former Soviet Union and the source of pollution associated with an aging industrial infrastructure. The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) and the Ukrainian Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MENR) entered into partnership to develop Ukrainian expertise and capacity in risk assessment so that Ukraine could more effectively use its National and Regional Environmental Protection Funds and set priorities for cleanup and regulation. Ukrainian scientists, local officials, and EPA consultants conducted a pilot study in the heavily industrialized Zaporizhzhia Oblast so that the process, analytical tools, and approach for a risk assessment could be developed for and tailored to Ukrainian needs. As a first step, site-specific information was obtained from multiple sources of air pollution and an emissions inventory of air pollution developed. Efforts by local officials were critical for emissions inventory construction. After refinements were made to the inventory, Ukrainian scientists then performed exposure modeling using this information so that ambient concentrations of pollutants could be estimated. 11 industry types (i.e., enterprises) were identified as a major emission source. Results of the modeling effort demonstrated that emissions estimates of particulate matter (as measured by particles of less than 10 micron diameter or “PM10”) and a number of carcinogens were consistent with those from other cities with high concentrations of metallurgical industries in former Soviet Union countries, and were above safety standards. Hazard information was gathered from international databases for each of the estimated pollutants. Using such data, prioritization and identification of potential health concerns can be made, but most importantly, the expertise and experience gained from the pilot allowed for continued support of risk assessment capacity building in the Ukraine and support by the World Bank.展开更多
Air quality was measured inside 628 United Arab Emirates (UAE) personal residences. Weekly average concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO), formaldehyde (HCHO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur di...Air quality was measured inside 628 United Arab Emirates (UAE) personal residences. Weekly average concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO), formaldehyde (HCHO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and three size fractions of particulate matter (PM2.5, PMc, and PM10) were determined in each home. In a subset of the homes, measurements of outdoor air quality, ultrafine PM concentrations, and elemental PM concentrations were also made. Questionnaires were administered to obtain information on housing demographics and lifestyle habits. Air measurements were performed using simple and cost effective passive samplers. The 90th percentiles of indoor CO, HCHO, H2S, NO2, and SO2 were 1.55 ppm, 0.05 ppm, 0.12 ppm, 0.01 ppm, and 0.05 ppm, respectively. Median indoor PM2.5, PMc, and PM10, concentrations were 5.73 μg/m3, 29.4 μg/m3, and 35.2 μg/m3, respectively. The median indoor concentration of ultrafine PM was 3.62 × 1010 particles/m3. Indoor/outdoor ratios for PM were 0.44, 0.41, and 0.38 for ultrafine PM, PM2.5, and PM10, respectively. These values fall within the range of other indoor air studies findings conducted in developing countries. Air conditioning, smoking, and attached kitchens were significantly correlated with indoor levels of carbon monoxide. In addition, indoor concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were significantly correlated with vehicles parked within five meters of the home, central air conditioning, and having attached kitchens. This is the first robust indoor air quality data set developed for the UAE. This study demonstrates that screening level tools are a good initial step for assessing air quality when logistical issues (distance, language, cultural, training) and intrusion into personal lives need to be minimized.展开更多
This paper gives an historic perspective on 10 critical phases and actions in advancing an understanding of climate change and taking appropriate domestic and international action. Credit goes to atmospheric scientist...This paper gives an historic perspective on 10 critical phases and actions in advancing an understanding of climate change and taking appropriate domestic and international action. Credit goes to atmospheric scientists for their committed efforts to understand, model and measure the impacts of climate change. Today, greenhouse gases are at a record level and little doubt remains that greenhouse gases (GHG) warm the atmosphere and that human-made climate change is real. Recognizing the urgency of responding to climate change, the 2013 US Climate Action Plan aims to cut carbon emissions and prepare to deal effectively with the economic, social, and environmental impacts of climate change. Many US states, Tribes, and local communities have also begun to take action to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to the impact of climate change, especially on disadvantaged communities. While recognition of the urgency of action on climate change is growing in government and in large parts of the business and financial sector, it has taken over 40 years to get to this point. While an understanding of the reality and impact of climate change has grown, significant efforts to reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and stabilize global warming have not occurred. The problem that society faces is not the absence of scientific knowledge, but rather the need to reduce GHG emissions and create resilient and adaptive responses to climate change. This paper concludes that future successes will need more effective collaboration between government, business, and society to address climate change and greater public understanding of the impacts of climate change on human health and economic well-being.展开更多
Xylan, being the second most abundant polysaccharide in dicot wood, is considered to be one of the factors contributing to wood biomass recalcitrance for biofuel production. To better utilize wood as biofuel feedstock...Xylan, being the second most abundant polysaccharide in dicot wood, is considered to be one of the factors contributing to wood biomass recalcitrance for biofuel production. To better utilize wood as biofuel feedstock, it is crucial to functionally characterize all the genes involved in xylan biosynthesis during wood formation. In this report, we investigated roles of poplar families GT43 and GT8 glycosyltransferases in xylan biosynthesis during wood formation. There exist seven GT43 genes in the genome of poplar （Populus trichocarpa）, five of which, namely PtrGT43A, PtrGT43B, PtrGT43C, PtrGT43D, and PtrGT43E, were shown to be highly expressed in the developing wood and their encoded proteins were localized in the Golgi. Comprehensive genetic complementation coupled with chemical analyses demonstrated that overexpression of PtrGT43A/B/E but not PtrGT43C/D was able to rescue the xylan defects conferred by the Arabidopsis irx9 mutant, whereas overexpression of PtrGT43C/D but not PtrGT43A/B/E led to a complementation of the xylan defects in the Arabidopsis irx14 mutant. The essential roles of poplar GT43 members in xylan biosynthesis was further substantiated by RNAi down-regulation of GT43B in the hybrid poplar （Populus alba x tremula） leading to reductions in wall thickness and xylan content in wood, and an elevation in the abundance of the xylan reducing end sequence. Wood digestibility analysis revealed that cellulase digestion released more glucose from the wood of poplar GT43B RNAi lines than the control wood, indicating a decrease in wood biomass recalcitrance. Furthermore, RNAi down-regulation of another poplar wood-associated glycosyltransferase, PoGTSD, was shown to cause decreases in wall thickness and xylan content as well as in the abundance of the xylan reducing end sequence. Together, these findings demonstrate that the poplar GT43 members form two functionally non-redundant groups, namely PtrGT43A/B/E as functional orthologs of Arabidopsis IRX9 and PtrGT43C/D as functional orthologs ofArabidopsis IRX14, all of which are involved in the biosynthesis of xylan backbones, and that the poplar GT8D is essential for the biosynthesis of the xylan reducing end sequence.展开更多
This paper presents a study on the use of best management practices(BMPs)for controlling nonpoint pollution in the Xikeng Reservoir watershed located in Shenzhen,China.A BMP treatment train design,including a pond,a w...This paper presents a study on the use of best management practices(BMPs)for controlling nonpoint pollution in the Xikeng Reservoir watershed located in Shenzhen,China.A BMP treatment train design,including a pond,a wetland,and a buffer strip placed in series was implemented at the reservoir location.A separate grass swale was also constructed at the site.Low impact development(LID)BMPs,namely a planter box and bioboxes,were used at the parking lot of the reservoir’s Administration Building.Samples were collected during storm events and were analyzed for total suspended solids(TSS),biochemical oxygen demand(BOD5),ammonia nitrogen(NH3-N),and total phosphorus(TP).The removal efficiencies of both BMP systems were evaluated using the Efficiency Ratio(ER)method based on the event mean concentration(EMC)data.In summary,the pond/wetland treatment train removed 70%–90%of TSS,20%–50%of BOD5,and 30%–70%of TP and NH3-N.The swale removed 50%–90%of TSS,30%–55%of BOD5,–10%–35%of NH3-N,and 25%–70%of TP.For the planter box and biobox,the ranges of removal rates were 70%–90%,20%–50%,and 30%–70%for TSS,BOD5,and ammonia and phosphorus,respectively.展开更多
Particulate pollution was a critical challenge to the promise of good air quality during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games,which took place from August 8th to 24th.To ensure good air quality for the Games,several tempora...Particulate pollution was a critical challenge to the promise of good air quality during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games,which took place from August 8th to 24th.To ensure good air quality for the Games,several temporary emission control measures were implemented in Beijing and surrounding areas.Ambient particulate matter concentration decreased significantly during the Olympic period;however,it is difficult to distinguish the effectiveness of those control measures since meteorology also affects ambient PM_(2.5) concentration.In this work,a multiple linear regression model based on continuous field monitoring at a roadside site was conducted to evaluate the effects of meteorology and emission control measures on the reduction of PM_(2.5) during the 2008 Olympic Games.The hourly data set was divided into two time periods,the no control period,June 22nd to July 4th,and the control period,July 28th to August 21st.The response variable was PM_(2.5) and the meteorology covariates used in the model were hourly temperature,dew point temperature,wind speed and precipitation.Wind direction was not a significant predictor of PM_(2.5) levels in either the control or the no control period.Using the meteorologically-based regression coefficients from the two time periods,meteorology was found to contribute to at least a 16%reduction in PM_(2.5) levels in the roadside microenvironment;while the pollution control measures contributed to at least a 43%reduction in PM_(2.5) levels.展开更多
The Oronogo-Duenweg mining belt is a designated United States Environmental Protection Agency Superfund site due to lead-contaminated soil and groundwater by former mining and smelting operations.Sites that have under...The Oronogo-Duenweg mining belt is a designated United States Environmental Protection Agency Superfund site due to lead-contaminated soil and groundwater by former mining and smelting operations.Sites that have undergone remediation-in which the O,A,and B horizons have been removed alongside the lead contamination-have an exposed C horizon and are incalcitrant to revegetation efforts.Soils also continue to contain quantifiable Cd and Zn concentrations.To improve soil conditions and encourage successful site revegetation,our study employed three biochars,sourced from different feedstocks(poultry litter,beef cattle manure,and lodgepole pine),at two rates of application(2.5%,and 5%),coupled with compost(0%,2.5%and 5%application rates).Two plant species-switchgrass(Panicum virgatum)and buffalograss(Bouteloua dactyloides)-were grown in the amended soils.Amendment of soils with poultry litter biochar applied at 5%resulted in the greatest reduction of soil bioavailable Cd and Zn.Above-ground biomass yields were greatest with beef cattle manure biochar applied at 2.5%with 5%compost,or with 5%biochar at 2.5%and 5%compost rates.Maximal microbial biomass was achieved with 5%poultry litter biochar and 5%compost,and microbial communities in soils amended with poultry litter biochar distinctly clustered away from all other soil treatments.Additionally,poultry litter biochar amended soils had the highest enzyme activity rates forβ-glucosidase,N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase,and esterase.These results suggest that soil reclamation using biochar and compost can improve mine-impacted soil biogeophysical characteristics,and potentially improve future remediation efforts.展开更多
文摘A controlled laboratory study was conducted to measure the dispersion effectiveness of Corexit 9500 on 23 different crude oils. This study was a part of a larger project initiated by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) testing 20 oils to compare the predictive value of laboratory dispersant effectiveness tests with their larger scale test conducted at Ohmsett, BSEE’s national oil spill response test facility located in Leonardo, NJ. The test used in this study was the Baffled Flask Test (BFT), which is planned for adoption as EPA’s official testing protocol for listing commercial dispersant products on the National Contingency Plan Product Schedule, replacing the current Swirling Flask Test (SFT) [1]. In addition, the results of 3 additional oils, the 2 used in the SFT and BFT as currently written plus another reference oil, are presented. The temperature used for the tests was 15°C, to match the temperature used at Ohmsett. The dispersion effectiveness ranged from 3.4% to 93%. The BFT is a laboratory test with results that are inversely correlated with oil viscosity and therefore has predictive value in the decision to use a dispersant in the event of a spill.
文摘Genetic linkage maps are valuable tools in evolutionary biology;however, their availability for wild populations is extremely limited. Fundulus heteroclitus (Atlantic killifish) is a non-migratory estuarine fish that exhibits high allelic and phenotypic diversity partitioned among subpopulations that reside in disparate environmental conditions. An ideal candidate model organism for studying gene-environment interactions, the molecular toolbox for F. heteroclitus is limited. We identified hundreds of novel microsatellites which, when combined with existing microsatellites and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), were used to construct the first genetic linkage map for this species. By integrating independent linkage maps from three genetic crosses, we developed a consensus map containing 24 linkage groups, consistent with the number of chromosomes reported for this species. These linkage groups span 2300 centimorgans (cM) of recombinant genomic space, intermediate in size relative to the current linkage maps for the teleosts, medaka and zebrafish. Comparisons between fish genomes support a high degree of synteny between the consensus F. heteroclitus linkage map and the medaka and (to a lesser extent) zebrafish physical genome assemblies.
基金supported by the Science Fund for Creative Research Groups of the Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 21221004)the Special Fund of the State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control (No. 12L05ESPC)+1 种基金the MEP’s Special Funds for Research on Public Welfares (No. 201309009, 2011467003)supported by the Program for New Century Excellent Talents in University (No. NCET-10-0532) and the China Scholarship Council
文摘Understanding the effectiveness of national air pollution controls is important for control policy design to improve the future air quality in China. This study evaluated the effectiveness of major national control policies implemented recently in China through a modeling analysis. The sulfur dioxide （SO2） control policy during the llth Five Year Plan period （2006-2010） had succeeded in reducing the national SO2 emission in 2010 by 14% from its 2005 level, which correspondingly reduced ambient SO2 and sulfate （SO42-） concentrations by 13%-15% and 8%-10% respectively over east China. The nitrogen oxides （NOx） control policy during the 12th Five Year Plan period （2011-2015） targets the reduction of the national NOx emission in 2015 by 10% on the basis of 2010. The simulation results suggest that such a reduction in NOx emission will reduce the ambient nitrogen dioxide （NO2）, nitrate （NO3-）, 1-hr maxima ozone （03） concentrations and total nitrogen deposition by 8%, 3%-14%, 2% and 2%--4%, respectively over east China. The application of new emission standards for power plants will further reduce the NO2, NO3-, 1-hr maxima 03 concentrations and total nitrogen deposition by 2%-4%, 1%-%, 0-2% and 1%-2%, respectively. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to evaluate the inter-provincial impacts of emission reduction in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei and the Yangtze River Delta, which indicated the need to implement joint regional air pollution control.
基金supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (Contract No.68-C-00-159)
文摘The biodegradability of three alkylates （2,3-dimethylpentane, 2,4-dimethylpentane and 2,2,4-trimethylpentane） under less agitated aquifer conditions was investigated in this study. All three alkylates biodegraded completely under these conditions regardless of the presence or absence of ethanol or benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylenes （BTEX） in the feed. In the presence of ethanol, alkylates degradation was not inhibited by ethanol. However, alkylates degraded more slowly in the presence of BTEX suggesting competitive inhibition to microbial utilization of alkylates. In the sterile controls, alkylates concentrations remained unchanged throughout the experiments.
文摘Predicting the spatial distribution of soil moisture is an important hydrological question. We measured the spatial distribution of surface soil moisture (upper 6 cm) using an Amplitude Domain Reflectometry sensor at the plot scale (2 × 2 m) and small catchment scale (0.84 ha) in a temperate forest. The spatial variation of soil water content was higher during dry conditions than that during wet conditions. Results indicated 3.1 samples at the plot scale were sufficient to estimate mean soil water content when the precision was 0.1. Soil water content increased with increasing topographic index (TI) and soil-topographic index (STI) at the small catchment scale. The correlation between soil water content and TI was higher than that between soil water content and STI. This suggests that topography is more important for estimating surface soil moisture than soil depth as formation of surface soil moisture occurs at ≤6 cm.
文摘Aquifer test methods have greatly improved in recent years with the advent of inverse analysis, derivative analysis, and diagnostic plots. Updated analyses of past aquifer tests allow for improved interpretations of the data to enhance the knowledge and the predictive capabilities of the flow system. This work thoroughly reanalyzes a series of pre- and post-hydraulic fracturing, single-well aquifer tests conducted in two crystalline rock wells in New Hampshire as part of an early 1970’s study. Previous analyses of the data had relied on older manual type-curve methods for predicting the possible effects of hydraulic fracturing. This work applies inverse analysis, derivative analysis, and diagnostic plots to reanalyze the 1970’s aquifer test data. Our results demonstrate that the aquifer tests were affected by changes in flow regimes, dewatering of the aquifer and discrete fractures, and changes due to well development. Increases in transmissivities are related to well development prior to hydraulic fracturing, propagation of a single, vertical fracture hydraulically connecting the two wells after stimulation and expansion of troughs of depression. After hydraulic fracturing, the estimated total yield of the individual wells increased by 2.5 times due to the hydraulic fracturing. However, the wells may be receiving water from the same source, and well interference may affect any significant increase in their combined yield. Our analyses demonstrate the value in applying inverse analysis, derivative analysis, and diagnostic plots over the conventional method of manual type-curve analysis. In addition, our improvement in the aquifer test interpretation of the 1970’s test data has implications for more reliable estimates of sustained well yields.
文摘Fecal indicator bacteria concentrations, a measure of water pollution, do not remain static in the environment and can fluctuate both temporally and spatially. Diurnal variation, partially resulting from the effects of UV light, may decrease the density of E. coli, resulting in lower concentrations in the afternoon. Previous studies conducted at 63rd Street Beach in Chicago, IL [1] and North Beach in Racine, WI [2] demonstrated significant diurnal variation using an E. coli standard and culture-based assays. Subsequent studies conducted at sewage-impacted Great Lakes beaches employing molecular assays (qPCR) found that the signal remained stable;it is unknown whether a similar scenario exists at non-sewage impacted beaches. During the summer of 2011, surface water samples were collected in the morning and afternoon (0700 and 1200) and analyzed by both IDEXX/Colilert and qPCR/BioGx SmartBeads/OmniMix HS to determine if temporal variation in E. coli was occurring (n = 29/23, culture/qPCR). Analysis of log-converted data (independent t-test/one-way ANOVA) indicated no significant difference in mean E. coli concentration as determined by morning and afternoon sampling via either method (Colilert/qPCR, p = 0.49/0.09, α = 0.05). Although not statistically significant (p = 0.09) there were 5 of 23 (22%) instances where afternoon qPCR values exceeded morning counterparts;two (10%) when culture-based assays did not show a similar response. The utility of rapid assays lies in their ability to generate results prior to beach opening;temporal or event-based fluctuations should be considered when using molecular assays at non-sewage impacted beaches for regulatory purposes.
文摘Immunoassays are widely used biochemical techniques to detect microcystins in environmental samples. The use of immunoassays for the detection of microcystins is vulnerable to matrix components and other interferents. This study is an evaluation of the effects of interfering substances commonly found in drinking and ambient water samples using commercially-available immunoassay kits for microcystin toxins. The microplate and strip test immunoassay formats were tested in the study. For the microplate ELISA, the following were found to inhibit microcystin-LR (MC-LR) detection: 250 μg/mL Ca2+ or Mg2+, 0.01% ascorbic acid, 0.1% EDTA chelating agent, 0.05 M glycine-HCl, pH 3. The following exhibited no effect: sodium chloride (NaCl, 1% to 4%) and sodium thiosulfate (0.001% and 0.01%), 0.01 to 0.1 M phosphate buffers (PB), pH 7 and 0.067 M PB at pH 5, 6, 7 and 8. Overall, up to 50 μg/mL of standard and reference natural organic matter (NOM) from various sources did not interfere in the assay system (without MC-LR) but diminished the detection of MC-LR at varying degrees. This is the first study evaluating standard and reference humic and fulvic acids from various sources in immunoassays for microcystins. The strip test also showed variable effects on MC-LR detection in the presence of NOM. This assay format was also sensitive to varying pHs and ionic strengths. MC-LR binding was inhibited at low pH (0.05 M glycine-HCl, pH 3), whereas, 0.067 M PB with pH 6, 7 and 8 can yield false positive results. Lower ionic strength of 0.01 M PB, pH 7 showed no interference in MC-LR binding whereas higher ionic strengths can interfere with MC-LR detection. NaCl at 3% and 4% can interfere with the analysis giving false positive results. Mg2+ at 50 and 250 μg/mL showed no effect on the analysis while the same concentration of Ca2+ can yield false positive results. The performance in marine, brackish and hard waters should be tested given the potential sensitivity to salinity. Results of this study may assist in the further refinement of existing assays and the development of practical antibody-based methods to clean-up samples and detect cyanotoxins in water.
文摘Engineered nanomaterials are used in many applications, including pollution sensors, photovoltaics, medical imaging, drug delivery and environmental remediation. Due to their numerous applications, silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) are receiving a large amount of attention. Ag NPs may occur in drinking water sources either during manufacturing, consumption and/or disposal processes. This potentially leads to the presence of Ag NPs in finished drinking water, which could have public health impacts. The objective of this research was to investigate the removal of several types of stabilized Ag NPs by potable water treatment processes. Specifically, this research achieved these objectives through: 1) Synthesis of Citrate-reduced Ag NPs, Polyvinylpyrrolidone stabilized (PVP) Ag NPs and Branched polyethyleneimine stabilized (BPEI) Ag NPs, 2) Characterization of synthesized Ag NPs to determine their aggregation potential, Zeta potential profiles, (pHpzc) and obtain morphological data from SEM images, and 3) An evaluation of the efficacy of conventional water treatment processes (i.e., coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation and sand filtration) in removing stabilized Ag NPs from natural water. The three NPs were found to be stable at the nano size in natural water. Alum coagulation had no impact on the PVP and BPEI Ag NPs. Flocculation and settling were found to be key steps for removal of these NPs. The three Ag NPs were not permanently removed by means of conventional water treatment processes employed in this study.
文摘Historically, Ukraine has been a major source of industrial production for the former Soviet Union and the source of pollution associated with an aging industrial infrastructure. The US Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) and the Ukrainian Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MENR) entered into partnership to develop Ukrainian expertise and capacity in risk assessment so that Ukraine could more effectively use its National and Regional Environmental Protection Funds and set priorities for cleanup and regulation. Ukrainian scientists, local officials, and EPA consultants conducted a pilot study in the heavily industrialized Zaporizhzhia Oblast so that the process, analytical tools, and approach for a risk assessment could be developed for and tailored to Ukrainian needs. As a first step, site-specific information was obtained from multiple sources of air pollution and an emissions inventory of air pollution developed. Efforts by local officials were critical for emissions inventory construction. After refinements were made to the inventory, Ukrainian scientists then performed exposure modeling using this information so that ambient concentrations of pollutants could be estimated. 11 industry types (i.e., enterprises) were identified as a major emission source. Results of the modeling effort demonstrated that emissions estimates of particulate matter (as measured by particles of less than 10 micron diameter or “PM10”) and a number of carcinogens were consistent with those from other cities with high concentrations of metallurgical industries in former Soviet Union countries, and were above safety standards. Hazard information was gathered from international databases for each of the estimated pollutants. Using such data, prioritization and identification of potential health concerns can be made, but most importantly, the expertise and experience gained from the pilot allowed for continued support of risk assessment capacity building in the Ukraine and support by the World Bank.
文摘Air quality was measured inside 628 United Arab Emirates (UAE) personal residences. Weekly average concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO), formaldehyde (HCHO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), and three size fractions of particulate matter (PM2.5, PMc, and PM10) were determined in each home. In a subset of the homes, measurements of outdoor air quality, ultrafine PM concentrations, and elemental PM concentrations were also made. Questionnaires were administered to obtain information on housing demographics and lifestyle habits. Air measurements were performed using simple and cost effective passive samplers. The 90th percentiles of indoor CO, HCHO, H2S, NO2, and SO2 were 1.55 ppm, 0.05 ppm, 0.12 ppm, 0.01 ppm, and 0.05 ppm, respectively. Median indoor PM2.5, PMc, and PM10, concentrations were 5.73 μg/m3, 29.4 μg/m3, and 35.2 μg/m3, respectively. The median indoor concentration of ultrafine PM was 3.62 × 1010 particles/m3. Indoor/outdoor ratios for PM were 0.44, 0.41, and 0.38 for ultrafine PM, PM2.5, and PM10, respectively. These values fall within the range of other indoor air studies findings conducted in developing countries. Air conditioning, smoking, and attached kitchens were significantly correlated with indoor levels of carbon monoxide. In addition, indoor concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 were significantly correlated with vehicles parked within five meters of the home, central air conditioning, and having attached kitchens. This is the first robust indoor air quality data set developed for the UAE. This study demonstrates that screening level tools are a good initial step for assessing air quality when logistical issues (distance, language, cultural, training) and intrusion into personal lives need to be minimized.
文摘This paper gives an historic perspective on 10 critical phases and actions in advancing an understanding of climate change and taking appropriate domestic and international action. Credit goes to atmospheric scientists for their committed efforts to understand, model and measure the impacts of climate change. Today, greenhouse gases are at a record level and little doubt remains that greenhouse gases (GHG) warm the atmosphere and that human-made climate change is real. Recognizing the urgency of responding to climate change, the 2013 US Climate Action Plan aims to cut carbon emissions and prepare to deal effectively with the economic, social, and environmental impacts of climate change. Many US states, Tribes, and local communities have also begun to take action to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to the impact of climate change, especially on disadvantaged communities. While recognition of the urgency of action on climate change is growing in government and in large parts of the business and financial sector, it has taken over 40 years to get to this point. While an understanding of the reality and impact of climate change has grown, significant efforts to reduce the concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and stabilize global warming have not occurred. The problem that society faces is not the absence of scientific knowledge, but rather the need to reduce GHG emissions and create resilient and adaptive responses to climate change. This paper concludes that future successes will need more effective collaboration between government, business, and society to address climate change and greater public understanding of the impacts of climate change on human health and economic well-being.
文摘Xylan, being the second most abundant polysaccharide in dicot wood, is considered to be one of the factors contributing to wood biomass recalcitrance for biofuel production. To better utilize wood as biofuel feedstock, it is crucial to functionally characterize all the genes involved in xylan biosynthesis during wood formation. In this report, we investigated roles of poplar families GT43 and GT8 glycosyltransferases in xylan biosynthesis during wood formation. There exist seven GT43 genes in the genome of poplar （Populus trichocarpa）, five of which, namely PtrGT43A, PtrGT43B, PtrGT43C, PtrGT43D, and PtrGT43E, were shown to be highly expressed in the developing wood and their encoded proteins were localized in the Golgi. Comprehensive genetic complementation coupled with chemical analyses demonstrated that overexpression of PtrGT43A/B/E but not PtrGT43C/D was able to rescue the xylan defects conferred by the Arabidopsis irx9 mutant, whereas overexpression of PtrGT43C/D but not PtrGT43A/B/E led to a complementation of the xylan defects in the Arabidopsis irx14 mutant. The essential roles of poplar GT43 members in xylan biosynthesis was further substantiated by RNAi down-regulation of GT43B in the hybrid poplar （Populus alba x tremula） leading to reductions in wall thickness and xylan content in wood, and an elevation in the abundance of the xylan reducing end sequence. Wood digestibility analysis revealed that cellulase digestion released more glucose from the wood of poplar GT43B RNAi lines than the control wood, indicating a decrease in wood biomass recalcitrance. Furthermore, RNAi down-regulation of another poplar wood-associated glycosyltransferase, PoGTSD, was shown to cause decreases in wall thickness and xylan content as well as in the abundance of the xylan reducing end sequence. Together, these findings demonstrate that the poplar GT43 members form two functionally non-redundant groups, namely PtrGT43A/B/E as functional orthologs of Arabidopsis IRX9 and PtrGT43C/D as functional orthologs ofArabidopsis IRX14, all of which are involved in the biosynthesis of xylan backbones, and that the poplar GT8D is essential for the biosynthesis of the xylan reducing end sequence.
基金the US Environmental Protection Agency,National Risk Management Research Laboratory,and Urban Watershed Management Branch(H00562)。
文摘This paper presents a study on the use of best management practices(BMPs)for controlling nonpoint pollution in the Xikeng Reservoir watershed located in Shenzhen,China.A BMP treatment train design,including a pond,a wetland,and a buffer strip placed in series was implemented at the reservoir location.A separate grass swale was also constructed at the site.Low impact development(LID)BMPs,namely a planter box and bioboxes,were used at the parking lot of the reservoir’s Administration Building.Samples were collected during storm events and were analyzed for total suspended solids(TSS),biochemical oxygen demand(BOD5),ammonia nitrogen(NH3-N),and total phosphorus(TP).The removal efficiencies of both BMP systems were evaluated using the Efficiency Ratio(ER)method based on the event mean concentration(EMC)data.In summary,the pond/wetland treatment train removed 70%–90%of TSS,20%–50%of BOD5,and 30%–70%of TP and NH3-N.The swale removed 50%–90%of TSS,30%–55%of BOD5,–10%–35%of NH3-N,and 25%–70%of TP.For the planter box and biobox,the ranges of removal rates were 70%–90%,20%–50%,and 30%–70%for TSS,BOD5,and ammonia and phosphorus,respectively.
基金The research described in this paper is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.50908121 and 20521140077).
文摘Particulate pollution was a critical challenge to the promise of good air quality during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games,which took place from August 8th to 24th.To ensure good air quality for the Games,several temporary emission control measures were implemented in Beijing and surrounding areas.Ambient particulate matter concentration decreased significantly during the Olympic period;however,it is difficult to distinguish the effectiveness of those control measures since meteorology also affects ambient PM_(2.5) concentration.In this work,a multiple linear regression model based on continuous field monitoring at a roadside site was conducted to evaluate the effects of meteorology and emission control measures on the reduction of PM_(2.5) during the 2008 Olympic Games.The hourly data set was divided into two time periods,the no control period,June 22nd to July 4th,and the control period,July 28th to August 21st.The response variable was PM_(2.5) and the meteorology covariates used in the model were hourly temperature,dew point temperature,wind speed and precipitation.Wind direction was not a significant predictor of PM_(2.5) levels in either the control or the no control period.Using the meteorologically-based regression coefficients from the two time periods,meteorology was found to contribute to at least a 16%reduction in PM_(2.5) levels in the roadside microenvironment;while the pollution control measures contributed to at least a 43%reduction in PM_(2.5) levels.
基金The information in this document has been funded in part by the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency.
文摘The Oronogo-Duenweg mining belt is a designated United States Environmental Protection Agency Superfund site due to lead-contaminated soil and groundwater by former mining and smelting operations.Sites that have undergone remediation-in which the O,A,and B horizons have been removed alongside the lead contamination-have an exposed C horizon and are incalcitrant to revegetation efforts.Soils also continue to contain quantifiable Cd and Zn concentrations.To improve soil conditions and encourage successful site revegetation,our study employed three biochars,sourced from different feedstocks(poultry litter,beef cattle manure,and lodgepole pine),at two rates of application(2.5%,and 5%),coupled with compost(0%,2.5%and 5%application rates).Two plant species-switchgrass(Panicum virgatum)and buffalograss(Bouteloua dactyloides)-were grown in the amended soils.Amendment of soils with poultry litter biochar applied at 5%resulted in the greatest reduction of soil bioavailable Cd and Zn.Above-ground biomass yields were greatest with beef cattle manure biochar applied at 2.5%with 5%compost,or with 5%biochar at 2.5%and 5%compost rates.Maximal microbial biomass was achieved with 5%poultry litter biochar and 5%compost,and microbial communities in soils amended with poultry litter biochar distinctly clustered away from all other soil treatments.Additionally,poultry litter biochar amended soils had the highest enzyme activity rates forβ-glucosidase,N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase,and esterase.These results suggest that soil reclamation using biochar and compost can improve mine-impacted soil biogeophysical characteristics,and potentially improve future remediation efforts.
