r !i»" i 3! PrctpLtion
t'-;- cti.I Development EPA-600 8-84-025 Sept 1984
&EPA USEPA Research
Grants and Centers
Summary of Awards
FY 80 thru FY 83
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EPA-600/8-84-025
September 1984
USEPA Research
Grants and Centers
Summary of Awards
FY 80 thru FY 83
Office of Exploratory Research
Office of Research and Development
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Washington, DC 20460
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Foreword
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is charged,
through a series of laws and executive orders, with reducing air
and water pollution and finding a comprehensive approach to
solving other environmental problems associated with toxic and
hazardous substances EPA's Office of Research and
Development funds research, development, and demonstration
efforts in support of EPA's mandate This is done through
research grants, cooperative agreements, and negotiated
contracts Research grants are utilized mainly in support of
investigator-initiated, long-range research activities which are
subject to a highly competitive, extramural peer-review, and in-
house priority process The long-range agenda commenced in FY
1980 with a research grants activity The contents of this
Summary of Awards includes essentially all such grants issued
since the program's inception as the Office of Research Grants
and Centers, in the Office of Exploratory Research located in
EPA's headquarters, Washington, D C
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Contents
Institution
Alaska, University of
Alaska, University of
Battelle Memorial Institute
Columbus Laboratories
Baylor College of Medicine
Benedict College
California Institute of Technology
California, University of
California, University of
California, University of
California, University of
California, University of
California, University of
California, University of
Carnegie-Mellon University
Central Florida, University of
Cincinnati, University of
Cincinnati, University of
City University of New York
(CUNY)
City University of New York
(CUNY)
Cornell University
Delaware, University of
Emory University
Environmental Defense Fund
Georgetown University
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia, University of
Harvard School of Public Health
Harvard School of Public Health
Harvard University
Harvard University
Hawaii, University of
Howard University
Hydronautics, Incorporated
Illinois State University
Investigator
Page
D. K Button 1
David G. Shaw 2
Floyd D, Wilson 3
David Y. Graham 4
James T. Kinard 5
Michael Ft. Hoffmann 6
Jerry Ft. Gillespie, Allen J. Marr 7
Jeffrey A. Gliner 8
James R. Hunt 9
Wilbert Lick 10
J. N. Pitts, Jr. 11
Edward D. Schroeder 12
Owen I. Smith 13
David R. Lincoln 14
John A. Osborne 15
Jeanne M. Manson 16
Pasquale V. Scarpino 17
Joseph W Rachlin, Thomas E Jensen 18
John J. Lee 19
Martin Alexander 20
C. P Huang 21
P. Dennis Smith 22
Joseph H. Highland 23
Elliott Kagan 24
J. P Gould 25
James L. Anderson 26
David Leith 27
Richard Levins 28
Michael B. McElroy, Steven C. Wofsy 29
Joseph D. Brain 30
Ping-yi Yang 31
S K Dutta 32
H. L Liu 33
Jerome R. Cain 34
FY-80
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Institution
Investigator
Page
Illinois, University of
Illinois, University of
Illinois, University of
Iowa State University
Iowa, University of
Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University
Kentucky, University of
Louisville, University of
Maine, University of
Massachusetts Institute of
Technology
Massachusetts Institute of
Technology
Massachusetts, University of
Miami University
Michigan State University
Michigan, University of
Michigan, University of
Michigan, University of
Michigan, University of
Midwest Research Institute
Minnesota, University of
Minnesota, University of
Minnesota, University of
Minnesota, University of
Nebraska, University of
New York University
New York University
Medical Center
North Carolina State University
North Carolina, University of
Ohio Agricultural Research
and Development Center
Ohio State University
Ohio State University
Research Foundation
Oregon Graduate Center
Oregon Graduate Center for
Study & Research
William Hallenbeck 35
John J. Hassett 36
P K Hopke 37
Ronald Dobosy 38
Paul R Pomrehn 39
Vincent P Olivien 40
Charles R O'Melia 41
0 J Hahn 42
Gerald Sonnenfeld 43
Chet A Rock 44
Michael P Manning 45
Selim Senkan 46
Francis A DiGiano 47
Gary W Barrett 48
Robert H Bolmg, Jr 49
Roger E Davis 50
Linda S/cko Goad 51
Eugene F Stoermer 52
Walter J Weber, Jr 53
Frank T Greene 54
Ira R Adelman 55
Robert M Carlson 56
V F Garry, Alfred D Barksdale 57
Benjamin Y. H Liu 58
Charles L Wi/kms 59
Guenther Stotzky 60
Morton Lippmann 61
Peter S Fedkiw 62
Harvey E Jeffries 63
R W Van Keuren 64
Steven M D'Ambrosio 65
Otis J Sproul 66
James F Pankow 67
John A Cooper 68
FY-80
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Institution Investigator Page
Oregon State University Paul C Katen 69
Oregon State University Nancy I Kerkvliet 70
Pennsylvania State University Edward J Massaro 71
Pennsylvania, University of Jonathan Amsel 72
Peter Bent Bngham Hospital Frank E Speizer 73
Pittsburgh, University of Yeun C Wu 74
Portland (Oregon) State
University Thomas M Hard 75
Rhode Island, University of Victor J Cabelli 76
Southern California,
University of Charles Heidelberger 77
SRI International Ft Thomas Podoll, James H. Smith 78
Stanford University Perry L McCarty 79
State University of
New York fSUNY) Lev R Ginzburg 80
Taylor College of Medicine Roger Floyd 81
Texas A & M University James E Kanz 82
Texas A & M University Robert J Kosinski 83
Texas, University of James V Bruckner 84
Texas, University of Max Costa 85
Texas, University of Desmond Lawler 86
Texas, University of Marvin S Legator 87
Tufts University School of
Medicine Stuart B. Levy 88
Tulane University School of
Medicine Manse S Gottlieb 89
United States of America
National Committee for the
International Association
on Water Pollution Research R. S. Engelbrecht 90
Virginia Polytechnic Institute
and State University W R Knocke 91
Virginia Polytechnic Institute
and State University John J Ney 92
Wake Forest University Mose/ey Waite 93
Washington State University Malcolm J Campbell, John C Sheppard 94
Washington State University Brian Lamb, Elmer Robinson 95
Washington, University of Foppe B DeWalle 96
Washington, University of Michael A Perkins, Donald H Baldwin 97
Washington, University of Timothy V Larson 98
Western Illinois University Te-Hs/u Ma 99
FY-80
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Institution Investigator Page
Wisconsin, University of William A Croft 100
Wisconsin, University of RonaldD Hinsdill 707
Wisconsin, University of Jerry Y. C Huang 702
Wisconsin, University of T M. Yuill 703
FY-80
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Title
Degradation Kinetics of Nonpolar Organic Substrates by Microorganisms
Principal In vestigator •
D K Button
Institution.
University of
Alaska
Protect Period-
2 years
Budget.
(2 years) $197, T57
EPA Project Number:
R808176
Summary:
Nonpolar substrates are known to accumulate in the aquatic
environment These hydrocarbon-rich compounds are
metabolically oxidized in the water column by aerobic
microorganisms to give mostly C02 and cell material The
enzymology of metabolism is well described However, views
differ as to whether the compounds are actively transported into
the organism, simply diffused into the cytoplasm, or are largely
extracted from oil phase droplets by the cells All but a few
studies of hydrocarbon metabolism rates include an oil phase so
that the concentration dependency of growth rate on dissolved
hydrocarbons is without a convincing description With the
emergence of hydrocarbon solubility data and related theory, it
has become feasible to consider the kinetics of dissolved
hydrocarbon metabolism by microorganisms Measured marine
hydrocarbon concentrations are well below saturation
concentrations Suspended sediment has little sorptive capacity
for hydrocarbons and little effect on their rates of metabolism, so
that the principal metabolic route is directly through the
dissolved phase Since procedures for measuring microbial
metabolism kinetics of nonpolar substrates at low concentrations
have been developed, various patterns in the associated rate
constants (as affected by structural characteristics of the
contaminants, the influence of additional similar contaminants,
the presence of dissimilar organic compounds, the nature of
microflora, and temperature) will be evaluated The resulting
kinetic constants will be useful in predicting the stability of many
important contaminants in the aquatic environment
FY-80
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Title
Biological Indicators of Oil Pollution for Alaskan Marine Environments
Principal Investigator: Summary:
David G Shaw The objective of this project is to evaluate a selected group of
potential biological indicators of oil pollution for use in Alaskan
Institution. and other cold climate marine environments Calculations will be
University of made regarding the energy charge, the scope for growth, and the
Alaska shell growth in bivalve mollusks using controlled laboratory tests
to show the relationship of the indicator parameters to known oil
Project Period: exposure These tests will then be followed by in situ field tests
2 years of the indicators in areas (Port Valdez and Cook Inlet, Alaska)
known to receive chronic inputs of oil The species used in this
Budget: work will be Macoma ba/thica (a deposit feeding clam) and
(2 years/ $157,795 Mytilus edulis (the common mussel)
EPA Project Number:
R 807918
FY-80
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Title:
Development of In Vitro Bioassays for the Detection of the Effects of Environmental
Toxicants on Immunity in Humans
Principal Investigator.
Floyd D Wilson
Institution
Battelle Memorial
Institute
Columbus
Laboratories
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 yearsiS 163,920
EPA Project Number-
Ft 808362
Summary:
This project proposes to develop and perfect a series of short-
term in vitro bioassays for the quantitation of toxic effects on
immunity in humans Evidence of the effects of a wide variety of
chemical and physical agents suggests that the environment in
association with hazardous wastes from energy production,
industrial processes and other mechanisms have the potential of
toxic effects on the immune system Determination of these
effects will be made through an assay development system
which will be structured in part on existing methods that allow
for the cloning of lymphocytes in semisolid cultures The
research will include comparisons on the sensitivity of the new
methods to more standard techniques in their ability to measure
the effects produced by a routine battery of environmentally
important physical and chemical agents with demonstrated
immunotoxic properties
FY-80
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Title:
Waterborne Rotavirus Infections
Principal Investigator:
David Y Graham
Institution.
Baylor College
of Medicine
Project Period.
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $168,008
EPA Project Number:
R808333
Summary:
Water quality is of increasing public health concern and the
detection of new contaminants in water supplies mandates
investigation of their public health significance so that specific
guidelines for maximum allowable levels of contamination can
be formulated The overall objective of this proposal is to
determine the minimal infectious dose of the important
gastroenteritis virus, rotavirus This study aims (1) to utilize a
sensitive in vivo biologic assay method to study low dose
rotavirus infections using miniature swine piglets and porcine
rotavirus, (2) to identify the minimal infectious dose of virus
ingested in water, and (3) to assess the effect of viral dosage on
the pathophysiology of the disease These studies will assist
public health officials to determine future recommendations for
standards on virus contamination and expand existing data on
the enteroviruses, particularly the rotavirus
FY-80
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Title:
Evaluation of Electrode Systems for Chlorine Determination in Wastewater Matrices
Principal Investigator: Summary:
James T Kmard This research is designed to determine the response time, run-
to-run reproducibihty and overall precision, and accuracy of
Institution: commercial chlorine electrode systems m wastewater matrices
Benedict College The scope of the proposed work will also encompass the
establishment of operating limitations of these systems and the
Project Period: development of an electrode method which would be capable of
2 years distinguishing total, free, mono-, di-, and other combined
chlorine species in aqueous media The approach will involve the
Budget' determination of data for each system in a distilled water matrix
(2 years] $89 589 anc' various wastewaters before and following the application of
various forms of chlorine at different pH levels Subsequent
EPA Project Number: results with the amperometric titration method will be compared
R807425
FY-80
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Title:
Kinetics and Mechanisms of S02 Oxidation in Bulk Aqueous Solution and Submicron
Aerosols
Principal In vestigator •
Michael R Hoffmann
Institution:
California Institute
of Technology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $244,047
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808086
Summary:
An experimental and theoretical study of SOa oxidation in
aqueous solutions is proposed The kinetics and mechanisms of
S02 oxidation in bulk aqueous solutions will be studied Catalytic
autoxidation of SOs in the presence of trace metal and
organometallic complexes, the concomitant production of H202,
H02- and HO-, the catalytic oxidation of S02 by H202 in the
presence of trace metals (i e , Fenton's Reagent), and the
noncatalytic oxidation of S02 by H202 at pH < 4 5 will be studied
Experimental techniques will include Stopped-Flow
Spectrophotometry, Ion Chromatography, Temperature
Jump/Stopped Flow Relaxation Kinetics and Specific Ion
Potentiometry Electron Spin Resonance Spin Trapping, Nuclear
Magnetic Resonance and Mossbauer Spectrometry will be used
to determine the relative contribution of radical, enzyme-like,
surface and polar reaction pathways to the overall liquid phase
oxidation rate of SO2 In a complementary study, other
researchers at Caltech will measure growth rates of
monodisperse aerosol droplets by liquid phase S02 oxidation in a
CFSTR reactor Gaseous concentration, dew point, and initial
droplet composition (pH, solute) and size are important variables
to be investigated A final objective of this study will be an
attempt to predict measured droplet growth rates from rate
constants and rate laws inferred from the solution phase studies
This work will have application in understanding gas-to-particle
conversion of S02 tn polluted air, as well as in removal of S02
from stack gas scrubbers
FY-80
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Title
Respiratory Function of Five Species of Mammals with Air Pollutant Injury
Principal Investigators- Summary:
Jerry R Gi/lespie, The objectives of this project are (1) to evaluate the
Allen J Man comparative respiratory physiology of the laboratory animals
frequently used to study the health effects of air pollutants, (2) to
Institution study the comparative respiratory function response of five
University of species of laboratory animals to a well characterized
California environmental air pollutant, ozone, (3) to investigate a new non-
evasive pulmonary function technique to be used to detect early
Project Period: airway injury caused by air pollutants, (4) to expand the scope of
2 years dynamic pulmonary function test available to study airway
function in small laboratory animals, and (5) to develop
Budget: quantitative and qualitative respiratory function and
(2 years} $582,013 pathophysiological data in animals which will enable correlation
prediction parameters in human beings
EPA Project Number:
R 807661
FY-80
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Title:
Interaction of Carbon Monoxide with Noise and Heat Stress Psychological and Physiological
Changes
Principal Investigator:
Jeffrey A Glmer
Institution •
University of
California
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $253,572
EPA Project Number:
R808177
Summary:
The object of this proposal is to examine the effects of carbon
monoxide alone and in combination with noise stress and heat
stress on man's ability to process information from the
environment (i.e , ability to perform psychological and normal
work tasks) The ability to process information under these
conditions is considered critical for industrial and environmental
safety The approach undertaken is in the context that man
actively processes information from the environment and then
acts on that information by making a decision Skilled movement
is then performed through the effector system to meet the
environmental demands Since man has only a limited attention
capacity, it can be determined that in the processing system a
breakdown will occur by utilizing psychomotor tasks which divide
the subject's attention and hence overload either the perceptual
or motor system Two different types of tasks will be utilized
One task will be a tracking task performed concurrently with a
peripheral vision task The emphasis will be on perceptual
processes The other divided attention task will be a reciprocal
tapping task in combination with a digit subtraction task The
emphasis of this task is on the effector system Using these two
types of tasks will determine whether carbon monoxide alone or
in combination with heat and noise stress affects man's ability to
process information It will also establish where in the system
these stresses cause a deterioration in performance
FY-80
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Title:
Particle Size Distribution Dynamics During Coagulation
Principal Investigator:
James Ft Hunt
Institution:
University of
California
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $109.816
EPA Project Number:
R808382
Summary:
The main objective of this project is to test the validity of
theoretical particle size distribution predictions for coagulating
particles under conditions typically encountered in water and
wastewater treatment Previous theories for particle coagulation
kinetics were limited to the initial coagulation kinetics of particle
suspensions uniform in size More recently, theoretical
predictions for coagulation kinetics in continuous particle size
distributions were obtained, and experiments conducted with
clay particles in seawater verified the Browman and shear
coagulation predictions This project proposes to accomplish
three tasks: (1) the development of a technique for measuring
aggregate particle size distributions, which is complicated by the
weak aggregate formed during coagulation Aggregate size
distributions will be measured using the electrical resistive pulse
sensing technique with a microprocessor controlled data
acquisition system, (2) to design and conduct experiments for
testing the validity of the particle size distribution predictions.
Well characterized particles destabilized by conventional
coagulanats will be coagulated under uniform fluid shear, and
the particle size distribution will be measured over time; and (3)
to examine, theoretically and experimentally, the effect of high
fluid shear rates on particle aggregation and breakup
FY-80
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Title:
The Entramment and Deposition of Sediment in the Great Lakes
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Wi/bert Lick The two mam purposes of the research are. (1) to
quantitatively determine the parameters on which entramment
Institution: and deposition depend, and (2) to determine the entramment and
University of deposition rates for a range of sediments representative of those
California in the Great Lakes Laboratory experiments to determine the
entramment and deposition rates of fme-gramed sediments from
Project Period: Lake Erie are being performed Results are being compared with
2 years field data from the Western Basin of Lake Erie Parameters on
which entramment and deposition depend (bottom stress,
Budget' compaction, mineralogy, bioturbation, manner of deposition) are
11 year! $103,271 being investigated
EPA Project Number:
R807742
FY-80 10
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Title:
Environmental Chamber Studies of A/02, NO3, MONO. /V205, andHNOibym situ FT-IRand
Differential UV-Visib/e Spectroscopy
Principal investigator:
J N Pitts. Jr
Institution:
University of
California
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(1 year) $159.478
EPA Project Number:
R807739
Summary:
A three-year research program using state-of-the-art
spectroscopic and environmental chamber techniques to
investigate the chemistry of NOX species with emphasis on N03,
N205 and MONO has been proposed This research will assist in
the development, validation, and application of photochemical
smog models for more effective air pollution control The
experiments in this research include the use of (1) a 5800-liter
thermostatted, evacuable environmental chamber facility; (2) a
Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrometer which is
interfaced to an in situ white cell in the chamber, and (3) the
newly developed Differential Ultraviolet-Visible Spectrometer
(DUVVS) system constructed at Statewide Air Pollution Research
Center (SAPRC) Emphasis will be placed on adaptation of a
multipass DUVVS system for operation in the environmental
chamber in a crossed-beam configuration with the FT-IR system
This will permit simultaneous in situ measurements of NOj, NOa,
N205, MONO, HN03, 03 and other pollutants. Through
fundamental spectroscopic and kinetic studies involving NOs and
N20s, the following reactions will be observed (1) the absolute
extinction coefficient for NO3; (2) the direct measurement of N02
+ NOa = NiOs equilibrium constant as a function of temperature,
(3) the NjOs-Os-NO, system; and (4) measurement of rate
constants for reactions of NOa with CO and selected organics as
a function of temperature Concurrently, heterogeneous
processes occurring in the Teflon-lined chamber, including the
"unknown chamber radical source" rates of heterogeneous
hydrolysis of N2O5 and heterogeneous production of HOMO will
be studied
11
FY-80
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Title
Performance of Over/and Flow Wastewater Treatment Systems
Principal Investigator-
Edward D Schroeder
Institution:
University of
California
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $110,899
EPA Project Number.
R807757
Summary:
The objectives of the proposed research are (1) to determine
the effects of precipitation on overland flow process
performance, (2) to determine the final fate of suspended solids
removed in the overland flow process, and (3) to investigate
nitrogen removal control techniques and develop operating
procedures to optimize nitrogen removal by overland flow Pilot
and full-scale research studies will be conducted The pilot
studies will be performed at the Pilot Overland Flow System,
University of California (Davis) Results from these studies on
precipitation effects and nitrogen removal will be verified at the
full-scale overland flow system, the City of Davis Wastewater
Treatment Plant Precipitation pilot studies will involve overhead
application of dionized water to simulate rainwater Precipitation
field studies will incorporate control plots to determine runoff
water quality from slopes that have not received Wastewater
Studies will involve measuring at frequent intervals (1) the mass
and (2) the organic content of suspended solids deposited down
the slope and those found on the overland flow slope Nitrogen
studies will involve (1) investigation of flooding the lower end of
the slopes to promote denitnfication and (2) investigation of
various application and drying periods to determine if nitrogen
removal can be maximized through operating procedures
FY-80
12
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Title:
Fuel Sulfur-Fuel Nitrogen Interactions in Flames
Principal In vestigator:
Owen I. Smith
Institution:
University of
California
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $99,754
EPA Project Number:
R808352
Summary:
The objectives of this investigation are to identify the
mechanism by which the conversion of fuel-N to NO is enhanced
by the presence of fuel-S compounds in rich flames and to
collect kinetic data on the most important reactions in the
mechanism To do this, SOs will be added to rich
hydrocarbon/oxygen/argon flames doped with cyanogen A
laminar, premixed flame will be utilized at pressures of < 1
atmosphere. The flame will be sampled as a function of distance
from the burner face by means of nozzle-beam-skimmer system
The sample analysis will be done by mass spectrometry Species
profiles for flames with or without the SOa addition will be
compared in an effort to identify the mechanism of interaction
Currently, equipment is being fabricated. The collection of
species profiles is expected to begin in May of 1981, with
attention initially focused on known intermediates in the fuel-N
to NO conversion mechanism, particularly the NH, species
0=1,2,3).
13
FY-80
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Title:
Probabilistic Analysis of the Escape and Environmental Establishment of Laboratory
Organisms
Principal In vestigator:
David R Lincoln
Institution:
Carnegie-Mellon
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $126,909
EPA Project Number:
R808317
Summary:
The discovery of the technique of recombmant DNA in 1973
created the opportunity for engineered living systems The
potential impact of these new genomes in the existing biosphere
has not been well characterized The assessment issues for
examining the potential impact are complex, including the
potential for environmental release during manipulation,
establishment in favorable ecological niches, infection of existing
life forms, and the release of harmful agents It is proposed that
a probabilistic framework based on fault tree analysis to examine
the potential for these organisms to be released in laboratory or
pilot plant scale conditions be developed Within this framework,
the interacting effects of organism quantities being handled,
protocols being followed, the quality of technicians and the
equipment designed to contain releases will be considered
Limited aspects of the environmental establishment of the
organisms condition on their escape will also be examined. The
probabilistic model will be coded for computer operation for ease
of computation and evaluation Major issues to be developed
quantitatively include (1) cumulative probability functions of
releases to different environmental media (air, water, and solids)
in different operating scenarios, (2) key functions and activities
wh._,n have significant influence on escape and establishment
probabilities, (3) sensitivity analysis to examine the effects of
uncertainty and to identify future areas for investigation, and (4)
cost-effectiveness analysis of major procedural or equipment
changes Results of the proposed systems approach are expected
to bring new insights and understanding to these aspects of risk
evaluation in applied genetics
FY-80
14
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Title:
Efficacy of Hydnlla Control and a Stocking Model for Hybrid Grass Carp in Freshwater Lakes
Principal Investigator:
John A Osborne
Institution.
University of
Central Florida
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $112,532
EPA Project Number:
R807961
Summary:
The primary objective of the research project is to determine
the efficacy of the hybrid grass carp (cross between Anstichthys
nobilis and Ctenopharynodon idella) in controlling submersed
aquatic vegetation, principally Hydnlla (Hydnlla verticil/atal and
to use vegetation biomass data and stocking rates to determine
the stocking rate model for the hybrid grass carp Eight Florida
lakes are being used in the study, ranging in size from 1 to 140
acres and all have Hydnlla. Baseline vegetation biomass at the
peak of the growing season (October-November) was achieved at
the onset of the project, and stocking rates will be constant for
all lakes (per surface area) Seven of the lakes will be stocked
with hybrid grass carp in Spring 1981, by the Florida Game and
Fresh Water Fish Commission, while the eighth lake has been
previously stocked by UCF Growth trends for vegetation species,
primary production data per species, and vegetation maps will be
used to analyze the effect of the hybrid grass carp over a two-
year period If the hybrid grass carp proves to be an effective
biological control agent for problematic submersed vegetation,
the stocking rate model will allow for operational use of the fish
by providing the basis for stocking to obtain control, while
minimizing the number of fish and thus the cost of the operation
15
FY-80
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Title:
Cell Death and Somatic Mutation in Teratogenesis
Principal Investigator:
Jeanne M. Manson
Institution:
University of
Cincinnati
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) S3 7 5.123
EPA Project Number:
Ft 807774
Summary.
The objective of the research is to determine the outcome of
DNA damage in embryonic cells exposed to a mutagenic
teratogen during the organogenesis period Tests will be
conducted to examine whether DNA damage in embryonic
tissues during this critical period leads to cell death of affected
cells and/or heritable alterations (somatic mutations) in cells
surviving teratogenic insult Methods of measuring DNA damage
and mutation in an isolated organ system of the mouse embryo,
i e , the limb buds, during the organogenesis period will be
perfected The persistence of DNA damage and mutation after in
vivo and in vitro treatment with the mutagenic teratogen MNNG
(methyl-N'-nitrosoguanidme) is being studied The level and
persistence of cell death in limb buds after treatment with
MNNG is being measured and correlated with the extent of DNA
damage and orientation The DNA repair capacity of embryonic
limb buds after teratogenic exposure to MNNG is being
ascertained and correlated with the target-organ specificity of
MNNG teratogenesis Three methods will be employed to
measure the effects in day 11 mouse embryo limb buds at
different time intervals after exposure to MNNG (1) alkaline
elution analysis to detect alkali-labile sites in single-stranded
DNA, (2) mutation selection tests with onabam and 6-
thioguanme, and (3) HPLC analysis of limb bud DNA for
methylated bases It has been found that the sensitivity to
MNNG-mduced limb effects occurs in the following order left
hindlimb, left forelimb, right hindlimb, and right forelimb
Distribution studies using radiolabeled MNNG in vivo and organ
cultures in vitro will be earned out to determine if the differential
response is due to differences in delivery of the chemical in vivo
or to the differences in susceptibility of the limb
FY-80
16
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Title:
Effect of Turbidity and Other Factors on the Virus Disinfection Process Using Free and
Combined Chlorine Forms
Principal Investigator:
Pasquale V Scarpmo
Institution:
University of
Cincinnati
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $173,500
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808248
Summary:
This research study is a direct extension of continuing efforts
to learn more about factors influencing viral and bacterial water
disinfection processes in the presence of paniculate matter (i e ,
turbidity) with forms of free chlorine and combined chlorine as
the disinfectants Turbidity in water will be created using (a)
inorganic suspended solids as bentonite- and kaolin-type clay
suspensions, and by hydrated aluminum oxide floes formed by
the coagulant aluminum sulfate AI2 (504)3 used in water and
wastewater treatment, (b) organic suspended solids as Hep-2,
BGM, and MA-104 tissue culture cells to simulate human
intestinal tract cells that may be found in water harboring enteric
viruses, and (c) human and/or animal fecal matter The
disinfecting capabilities of the chlorine forms will be evaluated
using enteric viruses (e g , poliovirus 1 and coxsackievirus A9)
and animal rotaviruses (e g , simian isolate SA-11) at different
chlorine levels, temperatures, contact times, pH values,
concentrations and types of particulate matter, ionic
environments, and types of virus mocula (i e , singles or
aggregated) For comparative purposes, reference bacteria (i e ,
both stock and naturally-occurring total coliforms found in
sewage) and bactenophages (e g , f2, MS2, and T2) will be used
The effect of the disinfectants on enterovirus- and rotavirus-
associated tissue culture cells, which simulate naturally found
cell-associated viruses excreted from the intestinal tract of man,
will be also evaluated The studies of breakpoint chlormation will
be extended to ascertain the effects of microbial kill of changing
chlorine to ammonia and ammonia to chlorine ratios at varying
pH (between 4 5 and 10) values and mixing rates during the
process of formation of monochloramme and dichloramme,
respectively. The chloramme disinfectant studies will be
performed using the apparatuses of Scarpmo and Sharp
17
FY-80
-------
Title:
Physiological Aspects of Heavy Metal Uptake in Algae
Principal Investigators:
Joseph W. ftach/m
Thomas E. Jensen
Institution:
CUNY
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $110,270
EPA Project Number
R807035
Summary:
Recognition of the risk of heavy metal contamination to
aquatic life and its potential movement through the food chain
have led to EPA requirements for monitoring of heavy metals at
all sewage sludge dump sites In order to better assess the fate
of heavy metals in aquatic environments, both laboratory and
field tests are proposed to examine algal uptake of heavy metals
Three basic tests will be performed in three separate systems
The three tests are (1) determination of the presence of copper,
lead and cadmium in algae by energy dispersive X-ray analysis,
(2) qualitation and quantification by energy dispersive X-ray
analysis, |3) quantitative analysis by either anoidic stripping
voltammetry or atomic absorption spectrometry The three
systems are (1) culture of algae native to the Hudson Estuary
System and environs in the presence of selected heavy metals,
(2) culture of similar algae in an "overplus environment" known
to cause the formation of phosphate storage morphologues
referred to as polyphosphate bodies, and (3) collection of algae
from known metal contaminated sites Benefits noted include a
better understanding of the impact of heavy metals on the food
chain via algal accumulation, and the relationship of phosphorus
to algal incorproation of heavy metals
FY-80
18
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Title
The Sensitivity of Critical Life Stages of Benthic Meiofauna to Drilling Fluids
Principal In vestigator-
John J Lee
Institution.
City College of
CUNY
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $36,287
EPA Project Number:
R807214
Summary:
Meiofauna (nematodes, copepods, forammifera, and similar
sized [0 05-0 5mm] small organisms) are the most numerous of
marine animals and play a key role in benthic food webs These
organisms consume and regulate benthic microfloral
assemblages and serve as food for larger animals Current
research indicates that the time scales for the recovery of
acutely stressed near-shore marine environments vary over wide
ranges Planktonic communities may recover depending upon
prevailing surface conditions in relatively short periods (days,
months) The longest impact, however, is on sheltered littoral
zones and subhttoral benthos with only low rates of circulation
Meiofauna are among the most sensitive indicators of
environmental quality because they live in direct contact and
feed in benthic sediments. These organisms offer great potential
for monitoring environmental impact on vulnerable and vital
coastal ecosystem processes Also, little is known of the
sensitivities of critical life stages of meiofauna to the drilling
fluids used in petroleum exploration It is proposed through
laboratory testing that data on the sensitivity of critical life of
meiofauna will yield information relative to probable areas of
impact, duration of impact, and recovery potential from the
effects of drilling fluids Their small size and easy cultivation in
ordinary glassware, test tubes and flasks under common
laboratory conditions (25°C) does much to recommend them as a
potential bioassay tool Five (5) species of benthic meiofauna will
be used (1) Allogromia laticollaris (Forammifera), (2) Nitocra
typica (harpacticoid copepod), (3) Chromadonna germanica
(algal-feeding nematode), (4) Rhabditis manna (bactivorous
nematode), and (5) Euplotes vannus (ciliated protozoan) These
species were chosen because of their wide distribution, easy
culturation, and minimal manipulation requirements Procedures
for developing the potential bioassay generally will follow
Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and
Wastewater The LCso and ECso will be determined
19
PY-80
-------
Title:
Fate in Established Ecosystems of Microbial Species Representing Potentially New Genomes
Principal Investigator.
Martin Alexander
Institution:
Cornell University
Project Period.
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $134,918
EPA Project Number:
R807688
Summary:
The objectives of this investigation are (1) to determine the
likelihood of persistence, survival and growth of microbial
species (representing potentially new genomes) in model
sewage, soil and fresh and marine water ecosystems, (2) to
establish the environmental factors governing their persistence,
survival or growth, and (3) to establish the reasons for decline or
persistence Taxonomically diverse microorganisms, both
procaryotic and eucaryotic, have been selected for use The
recovery and enumeration of the test organisms will be achieved
through the use of antibiotic-resistant mutants obtained from the
parent test strains and selected media (These have been
developed for all the organisms to be studied ) Known numbers
of the test organisms will be added to the model ecosystems, and
then these ecosystems will be monitored by plate counts to
assess growth, persistence or decline The significance of biotic
factors (i e predation, parasitism and carbon sources) and abiotic
factors (i e temperature, pH, light and moisture) will be
considered to explain population changes Currently, the survival
of Agrobactenum tumafaciens and Staphylococcus aureus when
inoculated in soil is being investigated Determinations as to
persistence or lack of survival will be conducted through studies
designed to ascertain if abiotic and biotic factors are responsible
for the die-off of the organisms Characterizations of factors
governing the persistence of organisms that survive or grow will
also be assessed
FY-80
20
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Title:
The Removal of Heavy Metals by Activated Carbon Process from Water and Wastewater
Principal Investigator' Summary:
C. P Huang The major objective of this proposed research project is to
develop an activated carbon process for the removal of heavy
Institution: metals from water and wastewater Laboratory experiments will
University of be conducted using a batch reactor to study the mode and rate of
Delaware adsorption and reduction between heavy metals (copper, lead,
zinc, mercury, cadmium, nickel, cobalt and silver) and a
Project Period: nonmetal (arsenic and commercial activated carbons) The effect
2 years of complex formation on the chemical reactions will also be
studied Laboratory experiments involving chemical and thermal
Budget: regeneration techniques will be conducted to regenerate the
(2 years} $125,189 heavy metal-laden activated carbon. Strong acids, strong bases,
wet thermal and combined chemical-dry thermal regeneration
EPA Project Number: methods will be thoroughly studied
R 808141
21 FY-80
-------
Title:
A Single Gene Mutagenesis System in Drosophila
Principal Investigator:
P. Dennis Smith
Institution:
Emory University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $133,425
EPA Project Number:
R807538
Summary
Experiments are outlined for the development of a single gene
mutagenesis system in Drosophila as a model for mutation
induction by chemical agents in animal cells The system to be
examined is the rosy (ry) eye color gene, a genetic unit specifying
the enzyme xanthme dehydrogenase (XDH) Extensive genetic
and biochemical studies make this gene the most defined locus
in Drosophila It is an excellent candidate for studies of mutation
induction which probe both genetic and biochemical events
Mutation studies will employ a group of chemical mutagens
which includes methyl methanesulfonate, ethyl
methanesulfonate, ethyl mtrosourea, nitrogen mustard, N-2-
fluorenylacetamide and hydroxylamme These agents have been
chosen as representative of a defined series which vary
systematically with respect to their modes of action, reaction
mechanisms, types of lesions and presumed involvement with
different repair mechanisms Employment of these varied agents
is designed to demonstrate the general utility of the rosy system
for the detection of chemical mutagens Forward mutation
studies will lead to the production of ry mutant alleles from the
enzymatically and electrophoretically defined /y*11 wild type
allele The frequency of mutation induction will be determined
for each mutagen and newly-induced ry mutants will be
subjected to genetic and biochemical tests These tests will
include examination of complementation behavior and
determinations of level of XDH activity and production of XDH
cross-reacting material. Reverse mutation studies will take
advantage of an effective chemical selection procedure which
will kill developing rosy mutants and allow specific isolation of
ry* revertants Employment of the EMS-mduced
electrophoretically-defmed /•y601 mutant allele for reversion
experiments will permit confirmation of revertants by both
enzymatic and electrophoretic means Additional experiments
which couple the forward and reverse systems can be
undertaken to examine the nature of the mutation events
induced by specific chemical mutagens The role of DNA repair
processes in the production of mutational events by specific
chemical mutagens will be examined The introduction of
excision-defective and postreplication repair-defective mutants
into the rosy system will be designed to identify genes which
control error-free or error-prone repair These studies will be
useful not only in defining fundamental mechanisms of mutation
induction in higher eukaryotic cells but also in providing
sensitive and well-defined tester strains for the identification of
potentially mutagenic chemical agents The employment of
sensitive and biochemically defined tester strains in a
multicellular, differentiated eukaryote which has the capacity for
in vivo metabolic activation of procarcmogenic compounds offers
a significant improvement in our ability to assess the risk of
exposure of human populations to environmental chemicals
FY-80
22
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Title:
Effect of Hazardous Waste on Human Nerve Conductivity, Growth and Maturation
Principal Investigator:
Joseph H Highland
Institution:
Environmental
Defense Fund
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
fl year) $39,203
EPA Project Number:
Ft 807772
Summary:
The ultimate objective of the project is to determine whether
the growth of children and peripheral neuropathy are reliable
and sensitive measurements of chemical toxicity in a population
living near a hazardous waste site The residents of Love Canal,
Niagara Falls, New York, will provide a test population since they
have already demonstrated toxicity due to exposure to hazardous
wastes and have a large enough population for statistical
purposes They will provide an extensive data base on
occupational exposures, chronic illnesses, reproductive histories
and other pertinent factors which will be useful for comparisons
with the studies described below A control neighborhood, near
Love Canal, will be identified which has much in common with
the Canal, but has no hazardous waste site Growth and
maturation in children and peripheral neurotoxicity will be
studied and compared in the test and control populations The
practicality of such a test will be evaluated A standard protocol
will be devised and a study of a second population living near a
hazardous waste dump will provide a validation study Two
potential sites are Gray, Maine, and Memphis, Tennessee, which
differ from Love Canal ethnically, culturally and geographically.
23
FY-80
-------
Title:
Immunologic Studies in Asbestos Exposure
Principal Investigator:
Elliott Kagan
Institution:
Georgetown
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $455,483
EPA Project Number:
R808252
Summary:
The objectives of this study are as follows (1) to determine the
contribution of immunologic processes to the pathogenesis of
asbestosis, (2) to ascertain the effect of chronic asbestos
inhalation on the functioning of the immune apparatus, and (3)
to determine the morphologic and ultrastructural effects
produced by asbestos inhalation in the lungs The role of the
pulmonary alveolar macrophage is considered crucial to the
evolution of asbestosis Attention will be given to the isolation,
purification and characterization of a putative asbestos-related
antigen on the surface of alveolar macrophages from unexposed
control rats Mechanisms of immune derangement occurring as
a consequence of the inhalation of asbestos will be studied in a
rat model Conventional light microscopy and transmission
electron microscopy will be used to study the effects of asbestos,
another group to chrysotile asbestos, and another group will
serve as age- and sex-matched unexposed controls The
exposures will last for 3 months Alveolar macrophage
membrane fractions will be evaluated for antigenic activity
Animal sera will be assayed for antibody activity against a
putative asbestos-related antigen Spleen lymphocytes will be
used to test for evidence of cell-mediated immunity against an
asbestos-related antigen The functional integrity of the immune
apparatus will be evaluated in all three animal groups using a
series of immunologic procedures Spleen lymphocytes will be
used to monitor cellular immunity and serum will be used to
assess humoral immunity Animal exposures are to commence
around mid-February, 1981
FY-80
24
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Title:
Chlormation and Ozonolysis of Purine and Pynmidine Bases in Water Products, Pathways
and Potential Health Effects
Principal Investigator:
J P Gould
Institution:
Georgia Institute
of Technology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years} $99.951
EPA Project Number:
R807367
Summary:
The objective of this projefct is to clarify the health effect
implications of chlonnation in water and wastewater treatment
and to compare this process with its most commonly used
alternative, ozonation A group of related, biologically significant
organic compounds, all purme and pyrimidme bases, will be
treated with chlorine or ozone under conditions common to
water and wastewater treatment The resulting reaction
mixtures will be chemically analyzed to identify and quantify
specific reaction products Reaction mixtures and pure products
will then be biologically tested for mutagenic and carcinogenic
activity using three test systems (the Ames test, tissue culture
test and whole animal test) The following information will be
gained from these studies (1) exact pathways of reaction
between the oxidants and the purme and pyrimidme bases will
be clarified, (2) mutagenic and carcinogenic potentials of
chlonnation, as opposed to ozonation, will be assessed; (3) data
from three different biological tests will be available for
comparison, (4) knowledge of which compounds might be
mutagenic or carcinogenic will be established, and (5) indirect
data relative to the process of disinfection will be provided
25
FY-80
-------
Title:
Electrochemical Detectors for High Performance Liquid Chromatographic Determination of
Ultratrace Pesticide and Coal Phenolic Residues in Water
Principal Investigator:
James L. Anderson
Institution:
University of
Georgia
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $64.915
EPA Project Number:
R808084
Summary:
The purpose of this project is to improve the analytical
methodology for the determination of ultratrace pesticide and
coal phenolic residues entering the water environment. Analyses
will be based on high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
with electrochemical detection. The pesticides to be studied
(carbamates and ureas) will be chosen on the basis of projected
future environmental significance as well as current limitations
in analysis based on other techniques. A series of important
pesticides will be screened by cyclic voltametric techniques to
determine the general applicability of electrochemical detection
in pesticide analysis. Initially, selected compounds which exhibit
electroactivity will be analyzed as pure reagent solutions. These
compounds will then be analyzed as authentic analytical
standards, added to and recovered from various natural water
samples at ultratrace levels. Finally, the compounds will be
analyzed as environmentally occurring traces in natural water
samples. Performance of the electrochemical detector will be
compared with performance of a conventional ultraviolet
detector Optimized methods and instrumentation will be tested
under routine use conditions to ascertain the potential for
application by field workers to the determination of
environmental pollutants affecting water quality.
FY-80
26
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Title:
Pulse-Jet Fabric Filter Performance
Principal In vestigator:
David Leith
Institution:
Harvard School
of Public Health
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $266,146
EPA Project Number:
R808001
Summary:
Fabric filters are the most efficient devices available for the
practical collection of many industrial dusts Pulse-jet cleaned
filters comprise about 40% of the filters sold. Presently, it is not
possible to predict their collection efficiency, either on an overall
mass basis or by particle size Theoretical models to predict
pressure drop are presently unreliable since they have not been
calibrated with data. In contrast, efficiency and pressure drop
models are available for most other particle collectors, such as
cyclones, venturi scrubbers and electrostatic precipitators The
objective of this study is to provide pilot plant data for collection
efficiency and pressure drop of pulse-jet fabric filters The data
will then be used to develop and calibrate models that will be
able to predict pressure drop and collection efficiency for
particles of various sizes The models will be used in
experiments to determine and verify optimum pulse-jet filter
design and operating characteristics Results form this study will
be valuable to regulators concerned with estimating particle size
and concentration from industrial sources that pass through
pulse-jet filters. The results will also be useful to manufacturers
and users of control equipment concerned with predetermining
whether a proposed collector will meet emission regulations To
the extent that these studies will foster more effective, more
reliable and lower-cost pollution control, filter users and the
general public will also benefit.
27
FY-80
-------
Title:
New Approaches in Evaluating Environmental Impact in Marine Ecosystems
Principal In vestigator:
Richard Levins
Institution:
Harvard School of
Public Health
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $296,596
EPA Project Number:
R807713
Summary:
The objective of the research project is the development of a
qualitative approach to environmental impact assessment in
marine ecosystems While not in an adversary position to a
quantitative technique, the experimental approach will be
directed toward an initial decipherability of ecosystem structure
and function to allow for more selectivity in information
quantification. Specific objectives are (1) the preparation of a
casebook of network structures of several Atlantic Coast
ecosystems from Virginia and Maryland, U S A to the Davis
Strait, Canada, (2) the determination of the effects of natural and
manmade perturbations such as toxic chemicals, nutrient
enrichment, overfishing and regulation on some of these
networks depending on the availability of appropriate data sets,
and (3) the development of the theory and applicability of two
theoretical techniques (loop analysis and time averaging) for
environmental impact assessment Loop analysis is a network
technique that can be used to predict parameter input to
equilibrium communities in regard to directed changes,
correlation and variability in the standing crops and turnover
rates of a set of interconnected variables in a loop diagram. In
time averaging, the assumption of equilibrium is relaxed This
technique combines concepts from the theory of stochastic
processes with dynamical systems theory to analytically
investigate systems which are described by functional equations.
This allows for any sustained bounded motion in a system of
many variables, thus making it more suitable for ecological
systems which tend to be in constant and complex motion
Several ecosystem descriptions are complete or undergoing final
revision Theoretical predictions based on the analysis of two
plankton communities have given good agreement with field
data sets This approach to environmental impact assessment is
expected to be extremely cost effective
FY-80
28
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Title:
Nitrification and Exchange of Dissolved /V2O and 02 in Polluted Estuaries
Principal Investigators:
Michael B. McElroy
Steven C Wofsy
Institution:
Harvard University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $238.904
EPA Project Number:
R807081
Summary:
The program is based on field measurements in the Delaware
and Potomac River estuaries. Longitudinal transects of these
systems will be made for determination of dissolved nutrients
(NH4+, N02~, N03", PO<"3), organic N and P, and dissolved gases
(N20, CH4, CH3CI, 02). The measurements of N20 will be
exploited to help quantify rates for nitrification of sewage NH/
and the data will be systematically analyzed in order to elucidate
the factors controlling nitrification in the rivers Improved
computer models for the nitrogen cycle on these rivers will be
devised Analysis of data for the Potomac has revealed nonlinear
behavior of the nitrification rate en response to variations of
freshwater flow into the tidal river This phenomenon has proven
to be consistent with a simple model for the growth kinetics of
nitrifying bacteria A paper describing these results has been
submitted for publication. Preliminary analysis for the Delaware
River has shown analogous behavior
29
FY-80
-------
Title:
Effect of Preexisting Disease on Pulmonary Responses to Pollutant Particles and Gases
Principal Investigator:
Joseph D Brain
Institution:
Harvard University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 year si $265,516
EPA Project Number:
R807082
Summary:
A major concern of environmental health policy is the
"sensitive individual " Most animal research has focused on
young, normal, healthy individuals, but there is growing concern
for those that are unusually responsive, very young or very old,
or those individuals with preexisting pulmonary disease It is the
purpose of the study to produce and characterize models of lung
fibrosis and chronic bronchitis in rodents The difference in the
retention of toxic particles in these populations of animals and
that of controlled populations will be measured Both the amount
and distribution of particles deposited will be quantified as will
short-term and long-term clearance of particles using both
radioactive and magnetic tracer techniques Also examined will
be the effects of acute and chronic exposure to nitrogen dioxide
and ammonium sulfate on animals with preexisting lung
disease Using measurements of respiratory mechanics,
determination as to whether the presence of disease causes
measurable shifts in the dose repsonse curves for acute
exposures to these agents will be ascertained Of particular
interest will be whether the no-measurable effect level for
pollutant gases and particles is altered by lung disease. Using
morphological and morphometric techniques, an examination
will be conducted to establish whether chronic subacute
exposures to nitrogen dioxide and ammonium sulfate influence
the pathogenesis and progression of lung fibrosis and bronchitis
FY-80
30
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Title:
Integrated Swine Waste Management System for Pollution Control and Energy and Food
Production
Principal Investigator:
Ping-yi Yang
Institution-
University of
Ha wan
Project Period.
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $77,042
EPA Project Number:
R808056
Summary:
The objectives of the project are (1) to develop necessary
criteria for an effective, low-cost anaerobic digestion system
with sludge recycle and raceway-algae-bactena-growth system
for swine waste and (2) to develop an improved, stable integrated
swine waste management system for pollution control as well as
energy and food production Experimental data on a 20-m3
anaerobic rubber digester (plug-flow) and a pilot algae-bacteria
growing raceway (472x120x51 cm3) will be used as a guideline
to install, construct and operate an integrated swine waste
management system at the Hawaii Institute of Tropical
Agriculture and Human Resources Optimal design and
operation criteria will be determined and recommended (such as
loading rate, sludge wastage rate and concentration of sludge
recycle for anaerobic digester, nitrogen loading rate, mixing rate,
hydraulic retention time, and maximum NH4-N concentration-for
algae-bactena-raceway system) At this time, a 20-m3 rubber
digester has been modified, installed, and operated at a pig farm
on Oahu Recycling part of the settled digester sludge has been
practiced This is expected to decrease reactor or digester
volume and increase the manure loading rate Also, a pilot
raceway for algae-bactena-growth system has been installed
and operated at the University of Hawaii This system is designed
to investigate and evaluate the operational performance and
kinetic behavior of algae-aerobic bacteria-growth and substrate
(NH4-N and COD) removal by feeding anaerobically digested
effluent. Currently, an integrated swine waste management
system is being constructed and is expected to be in operation
March 1981.
31
FY-80
-------
Title:
Effects of Specific Radiofrequency Radiations on Human Cells
Principal Investigator-
S K Dutta
Institution:
Howard University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $116,975
EPA Project Number.
R807490
Summary:
The primary objective of this project is to increase the
information on the cellular effects of selective radiofrequency
and microwave radiation by using standard human cell lines in
culture Evidence presented by other researchers has clearly
shown cellular effects at particular frequency and power
"windows," i e , a limit range of values demonstrating positive
effects This project proposes to initially use a human
neuroblastoma cell line AG 2202 or IMR-32 to scan for possible
frequency and power "windows" using a fast and simple 45Ca+*
efflux technique that hasteen developed and used successfully
in previous research experiments Frequency and power density
(windows) values will be established for neuroblastoma cells in
culture These values will be used to examine the response of
other human cell lines (such as IMR-90) that are established
from normal fibroblast tissue Another phase of the project will
examine the effects of short- and long-term exposure of normal
skin primary explant in culture taken from human cadavers
These examinations are to investigate any possible effects on
body tissue as opposed to individual cells Experiments will be
conducted with specific attention to the effects of microwave-
induced heating so as to examine other possible causes of
microwave-induced biological changes
FY-80
32
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Title:
The Investigation and Demonstration of a Hydroperm Microfiltration System for the
Treatment of Electroplating Wastewater Effluents
Principal Investigator:
H L Liu
Institution:
Hydronautics,
Incorporated
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
11 year) $84,495
EPA Project Number:
R807503
Summary:
The purpose of the program is to demonstrate onsite, the
economic and technical viability of Hydroperm crossflow
microfiltration for virtually complete removal of all suspended
solids and toxic heavy metals from electroplating wastewater so
as to produce water suitable for reuse and to minimize sludge
handling problems The electroplating industry produces a large
volume (~2 5 billion gpd) of wastewaters which contain primarily
four common toxic heavy metals (chromium, zinc, copper and
nickel) as well as lead, iron, cadmium, tin, silver and others that
amount to approximately 140,000,000 Ibs/year Current
treatment technology generally involves conversion of the heavy
metals into an insoluble hydroxide form, which is frequently
hydrous, difficult to settle, requires large areas for conventional
settling processes and involves hydrous sludge which is difficult
to dewater and costly to transport The application of Hydroperm
microfiltration should have the following advantages (1) virtually
complete removal of suspended solids, including metal
hydroxides in wastewater, (2) production of a sludge containing
minimum water content with consequent reduction in handling
cost, (3) production of a water product suitable for reuse in the
rinsing (dragout) operation (an economic benefit), (4)
minimization of space requirements, (5) reduction in capital and
operating costs; (6) ready achievement of the TSS criterion
established by environmental regulations, (7) reduction of
industry cost resulting from imposition of environmental
regulations, and (8) the provision of an effective modular
treatment technology for small and large captive job operations
33
FY-80
-------
Title:
Resistance of Algal Spores to Herbicide Treatments
Principal In vestigator'
Jerome R Cam
Institution:
Illinois State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years] $62.213
EPA Project Number:
R807452
Summary:
The primary objective of this project is to determine if algal
spores provide a means by which algae can resist elimination by
chemical herbicides The toxicity of many herbicides to the
vegetative phases of many algal species has been studied
However, many algae, in addition to vegetative phases, produce
spores as part of their sexual or asexual life cycles No previous
studies have examined the toxicity of herbicides to spore stages
of algal life histories This study is utilizing Chlamydomonas
moewusii, a common freshwater alga, as a tool organism for the
source of spores Both the vegetative phase and spore phase of
this alga's life cycle are being subjected to a range of
concentrations of 22 different herbicides, which represent most
of the chemical classes of herbicides in common usage The
ability of each herbicide to arrest growth of the vegetative phase
is being evaluated Also, the ability of each herbicide to prevent
spore development and/or germination is bieng studied
Comparisons of the results obtained will determine if vegetative
and spore stages differ in their sensitivity to various herbicides,
and which ones are the most toxic to each phase
FY-80
34
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Title:
Urine as a Biological Index of Exposure to Airborne Asbestos
Principal Investigator:
William Hallenbeck
Institution •
University of
Illinois
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $45,022
EPA Project Number.
Ft 807743
Summary:
The objectives of the project are (1) to determine the best
state-of-the-art methodology for preparing air and urine samples
for analysis by transmission electron microscopy, (2) to
determine if asbestos can be detected in the urines of workers
chronically exposed to elevated levels of airborne asbestos and
compare any positive findings to those derived from an
appropriate control group, and (3) to characterize the airborne
asbestos in the workers' environment Characterization will be in
terms of light microscopic analyses, TEM, fiber and mass
concentrations, and length/diameter distributions A group of 10
to 15 employees working in asbestos-exposed conditions will be
studied at a Chicago factory which produces tars and sealers
containing asbestos Urine samples and personal air samples
will be collected during the work shift Detailed comparisons of
the direct transfer and drop samples preparation techniques are
being carried out in order to select the best methodology
Negotiations with factory officials concerning the schedule of air
and urine sampling are in progress
35
FY-80
-------
Title:
Limitations and Energetics of Hydrophobia (Nonpolar) Sorption of Organic Compounds by
Soils and Sediments
Prin cipal In ves tigator:
John J. Hassett
Institution:
University of
Illinois
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $144,438
EPA Project Number:
R808417
Summary:
The objectives of the research project are to determine (1) the
minimum Kow value and/or the maximum water solubility
(critical values) at which hydrophobic sorption becomes the
dominant process independent of sorbent properties, (2) the
sorbate and sorbent properties that control the type of sorption
that dominates for compounds with water solubilities greater
than or Kow values less than the critical values, and (3) the free
energies, enthalpies and entropies of sorption for a homologous
series of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons, and other
compounds with soils and sediments Sorption isotherms will be
conducted on a wide variety of compounds with water
solubilities of approximately 100 ppm and above Sorption of
these compounds will be tested on selected soils and sediments
that represent a wide range in sorbent properties, particularly a
range in organic carbon to montmonllonite ratios Results of
these studies combined with existing data in the literature
should facilitate definition of "critical values" for Kow and S
beyond which hydrophobic sorption would be expected to occur
regardless of sorbent properties The second objective will be
approached by selecting specific compounds below the critical
values established in objective one for strict hydrophobic
sorption Sorption of these compounds will be studied over a
wide range of soils and sediments to further examine those
sorbent properties that control the dominant type of sorption
Sorption constants will be determined from batch equilibrium
sorption experiments carried out at constant temperature in
temperature controlled shaking water baths High performance
liquid chromatography (HPLC) with variable wavelength UV-Vis
and/or fluorescence detectors will be used
FY-80
36
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Title:
The Development and Application of Factor Analysis to Urban Aerosol Source Resolution
Principal Investigator: Summary:
P. K Hopke This research explores the ability of target transformation
factor analysis to perform quantitative aerosol source resolutions
Institution: for both real and created data sets Actual urban aerosol
University of composition data from St Louis, Missouri and Denver, Colorado
Illinois will be analyzed Additionally, data sets representative of
airborne particle composition data will be created and analyzed
Project Period: to test the ability of the procedure to reproduce the original data
2 years including source composition and emission rates These studies
will clarify the strengths and limitations of factor analysis in
Budget: source apportionment of urban aerosols This project will yield a
12 years) $102,775 procedure that can be applied to development of cost-effective
particle control strategies based on source resolution
EPA Project Number:
R808229
37 FY-80
-------
Title:
Mean Wind and Stability Over Complex Terrain of Moderate Relief on the High Plains'
Analysis of Data Taken Around Colstrip, Montana
Principal Investigator:
Ronald Dobosy
Institution:
Iowa State
University
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $31.980
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808318
Summary.
Correct specification of an elective transporting wind and a
general stability class is essential for operating air quality
models In complex terrain, finding these parameters can be
difficult Preliminary analysis of data taken around Colstrip,
Montana, however, suggests a relatively simple characterization
of mean winds and stability at least to first order if the terrain
has moderate relief, as on the High Plains It is proposed that in
such terrain, for a substantial part of the year, daytime wind and
stability structure resembles that over homogeneous terrain,
while nighttime flow follows terrain drainage or channeling
patterns up to at least 100m above the ground This hypothesis
will be tested through careful analysis of several years of
Colstrip tower and surface data including a week of pibial winds
and tethered balloon temperature profiles Interpolated synoptic-
scale flow will be compared with pibal and tower winds to test
the first hypothesis statement Prevailing stable flow up to 145m
above Colstrip will be compared to terrain patterns to test the
second statement Factual information gained from this work will
help in the design of efficient measurement programs for
environmental impact assessments in moderate relief terrain.
FY-80
38
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Title:
Iowa Community Water Blood-Pressure Project
Principal Investigator:
Paul R. Pomrehn
Institution:
University of
Iowa
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years/$201,369
EPA Project Number:
R807217
Summary:
A survey measuring blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight
and triceps shinfold in 1,500 ten-, eleven- and twelve-year old
children in eight (8) Iowa communities will be conducted to
determine if (1) water sodium levels relate to mean blood
pressure, (2) the water sodium level-mean blood pressure
relationship interacts with water hardness, and (3) family history
of hypertension enhances the water sodium level-mean blood
pressure relationship Communities were selected for diversity in
water sodium levels (from over 200 Mg/l to less than 10 Mg/l
variation) and demographic similarity All measurements will be
made by trained observers using standardized techniques
Samples of water from participants' homes will be analyzed for
Na*, K+, Ca++, Mg++ and CaC03 Further, a subset of parents will
be selected and home visits conducted to measure blood
pressure, heart rate, height, weight, and triceps shinfold Parents
will be stratified into three groups high, middle, and low
according to blood pressure Blood pressure of children whose
parents are in high, medium, and low groups will be compared
contrasting high water sodium level communities with low water
sodium level communities. This contrast will test if the pressor
response to water sodium levels is enhanced by family history of
hypertension Results will be mtrerpreted with consideration
given to health effects of various water sodium levels and water
treatment practices
39
FY-80
-------
Title:
Implications of the Mode of Action of Chlorine Dioxide on Virus
Principal Investigator:
Vincent P Olivien
Institution:
Johns Hopkins
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $385,900
EPA Project Number:
R807747
Summary:
The overall objective of the proposed project is to evaluate the
implications of the mechanism of mactivation of viruses with
chlorine dioxide The viruses employed will be the bacterial
viruses f2 and 0X174, poliovirus, and swine emerovirus The
specific objectives are. (1) to determine the biological function of
viral nucleic acid and protein after treatment with chlorine
dioxide, (2) to evaluate the structural integrity of the vinon after
treatment, (3) to determine the fate and stability of the treated
viral components in the aquatic environment, and (4) to evaluate
the mfectivity of treated virus in systems other than cell
monolayers The approach employed will be to follow the
biologjcal activity of the virus during and after treatment with
chlorine dioxide The initial phases of the study will be to
determine the ability of viral protein and nucleic acid to function
and to evaluate structural integrity of the treated virus If nucleic
acids remain infectious after exposure to levels of chlorine
dioxide commonly employed in water and wastewater treatment,
the survival of these preparations will be evaluated in aquatic
systems Also, the mfectivity of the chlorine dioxide treated virus
will be evaluated in tissue culture and animals to determine
whether chlorine dioxide inactivated virus can produce infection
in animals
FY-80
40
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Title:
Coagulation/Precipitation of Natural Organic Substances in Water Treatment
Principal Investigator:
Charles R. O'Melia
Institution:
Johns Hopkins
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 yearsj $142,1'49
EPA Project Number'
R808104
Summary:
The goals of this project are (1) to characterize the abilities of
coagulant chemicals to remove organic matter from water and
determine certain properties of the organics remaining in
solution after treatment, (2) to note the chemical conditions
affecting the ability of metal salts to remove natural organic
matter, including the effects of competing pollutants in the
water, the use of preformed solid phases, and the strength and
composition of coagulant stock solutions, (3) to determine the
effects of reactor design on the reactions induced by metal salts
and organic polymers, involving such parameters as mixing
intensity and hydraulic reaction time in rapid mix and
flocculation units, and (4) to combine this information with other
veritable data (i e .chemical coagulants, natural organic
substances, and treatment reactors) into a treatment system for
water supplies containing both soluble organic substances and
particulate matter (turbidity)
41
FY-80
-------
Title.
Wet Oxidation of the Wastewater from Coal Gasification Installations
Principal In vestigator •
0 J Hahn
Institution:
University of
Kentucky
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $245,275
EPA Project Number:
R807666
Summary:
The objectives of the proposed research are to demonstrate
with the University of Kentucky's half ton per day moving bed
coal gasifier and small laboratory apparata (1) that wet oxidation
of organic and inorganic material in the wastewater from
gasifiers is technically feasible and economically attractive, (2) to
determine the kinetic parameters controlling the process, and (3)
to find possible catalysts to accelerate the reaction The
feasibility of wet oxidation to treat wastewaters has been
demonstrated in a small pressure vessel However, no reaction
data has been determined In this project the wastewater is
generated with an existing and proven half ton per day coal
gasifier The initial reaction parameters and catalysts will be
determined in small autoclave systems In the second year a
small test loop will be incorporated into the existing gasifier to
confirm reaction parameters and investigate buildup of trace
elements in the treated and recirculated wastewater
FY-80
42
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Title:
Carcinogen Mechanism—Interferon Induction Inhibition
Principal In vestigator:
Gerald Sonnenfe/d
institution.
University of
Louisville
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $120,921
EPA Project Number:
ft 807619
Summary:
The long-term goals of this project are to study and delineate
the effect of carcinogens on mterferon induction and action and
to develop the inhibition of the mterferon induction system as a
reliable assay for the carcinogenic potential of chemicals The
number of chemicals tested in the system will be expanded to
include several known carcinogens, their rarely- or non-
carcmogenic analogs, and non-carcinogens Determination if the
inhibition of mterferon induction can discriminate among
chemicals on the basis of carcinogenic potential will hopefully be
established An attempt will be made to correlate the results of
the inhibition of the mterferon induction system with other
assays for chemical carcmogenicity (e.g , Ames test, Comptest)
in efforts to establish the inhibition of the mterferon induction
system as a reliable assay Continued discrimination among
chemicals may lead to development of a human in vitro
screening assay for carcinogens based on the inhibition of
mterferon induction
43
FY-80
-------
Title:
Utilization of Peat in Ons/te Wastewater Disposal Systems
Prin cipal In ves tig a tor
Chet A Rock
Institution:
University of
Maine
Project Period
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $45,789
EPA Project Number:
R808069
Summary
The objective of this project is to develop an inexpensive
alternative on-site waste disposal system that can be utilized in
areas that do not have acceptable soils for conventional
dramfield systems The project will define and establish the
design parameters needed to construct and operate a practical
peat adsorption bed receiving septic tank effluent The
springboard for the project is the very encouraging results
obtained by Brooks (1 980), who monitored a peat adsorption
field The project is proposed in two phases (1) laboratory
studies and (2) field site monitoring Initial efforts will be
centered on laboratory evaluation of design parameters and peat
evaluation, with resumption of additional monitoring of Brooks'
original installation A second peat adsorption system will be
designed and installed during the 1981 construction season
based on the results obtained by Brooks After sufficient
information is gathered in the laboratory through studies of peat
removal efficiencies under a variety of conditions, a third system
may be constructed in 1982 Peat will also be evaluated as an
alternative to sand in the raised bed (mound) system and an
experimental system will be installed and monitored
FY-80
44
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Title:
Heterogeneous Catalytic Oxidation of Model Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
Principal Investigator:
Michael P Manning
Institution:
Massachusetts
Institute of
Technology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years/ $167,970
EPA Project Number:
R808296
Summary:
The objectives of this project are (1) to measure the kinetics of
heterogeneous oxidation of three sets of model compounds on
three catalysts, supported V20s, Cr203, and an
oxyhydrochlormation catalyst, (2) to correlate the measured rates
and determine rate expressions for the oxidation of the
chlorinated paraffins, olefins, and aromatic compounds as a
function of temperature and reactant concentrations, and (3) to
assess the effect of nitrogen and sulfur as a potential catalyst
poison by measuring the rates of catalytic oxidation in the
presence of SO2 and NO2 The kinetics of heterogeneous
catalytic oxidation of model paraffmic, olefmic and aromatic
chlorinated compounds will be measured in a tubular flow
reactor Inlet and outlet compositions will be measured by gas
chromatography Support vanadia and chromia catalysts and an
oxyhydrochlormation catalyst will be examined The effects of
nitrogen and sulfur as catalyst poisons will be tested by
introduction of NO2 and S02 into the reactor feed
45
FY-80
-------
Title:
Thermal Destruction Kinetics of Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
Principal Investigator:
Selim Sen/tan
Institution:
Massachusetts
Institute of
Technology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $198,11 7
EPA Project Number.
R808314
Summary:
Controlled thermal destruction of chlorinated hydrocarbons
(CMC) is an attractive method in the ultimate disposal of these
hazardous chemical wastes The combustion principle involved
in CMC oxidation is currently at a very primitive state, and is
inadequate for the design and operation of reliable incinerators
The combustion characteristics of various CMC compounds are
being studied in order to develop veritable data on the
engineering and scientific principles involved in hazardous
chemical waste incinerator design Premixed flame studies will
be directed towards developing an understanding of the kinetics
of flame destruction of three classes of chlorinated
hydrocarbons, chloromethanes, chloroethylenes, and
chlorobenzenes Experiments will be conducted using two
burner systems a flat-flame burner and a Bunsen burner, with
the bulk of the studies being conducted with the former CHC
destruction rates will be studied as a function of changing Cl
content and the nature of the CHC compound, temperature,
excess air, and auxiliary fuel (CH,i) use Single CHC compounds
as well as their mixtures will be investigated In parallel with this
experimental work, theoretical studies will also be undertaken to
model the flame structure
FY-80
46
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Title
Investigation of the Potential f or Nitrosamme Production on Activated Carbon in Treatment of
Drinking Water
Principal Investigator:
Francis A DiGiano
Institution:
University of
Massachusetts
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $133.425
EPA Project Number:
Ft 807537
Summary:
The regulation concerning use of granular activated carbon
(GAC) in water work installations has been carefully scrutinized
by the industry There is concern regarding possible contaminant
production on the GAC surface The proposed research
postulates that N-nitrosammes, which have been shown to be
carcinogenic, may in fact be produced on GAC surfaces through
reactions of nitrite and amines or other organic precursors
Nitrite is derived from microbial conversion of ammonia to
nitrate. The probability of mtrosamine production on GAC
surfaces, although remote, has not been refuted by scientific
research Nonetheless, mtrosamine production has been noted
on de-iomzmg resins Through laboratory study, this project will
investigate and characterize the microbial and catalytic
contamination caused by mtrosamine production on GAC
surfaces
47
FY-80
-------
Title.
Cooperative Agreement to Study the Effects of Municipal Sludge (M/lorganite) on the
Structure and Function of Two Grassland Ecosystems
Principal Investigator:
Gary W Barrett
Institution:
Miami University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years/ $46,529
EPA Project Number'
ft 807370
Summary:
The major objectives of this investigation are (a) to measure
and evaluate the effects of chronic sludge application on several
different levels of biological organization, (b) to compare two
different grassland community types treated in an identical
manner, (c) to analyze different structural (e g , biomass and
species diversity) and functional (e g , energy flow and
community resilience) ecosystem parameters which may be
indicative of total systems response, (d) to evaluate sludge
effects via ecosystem food chains on a natural small mammal
population (Microtus pennsylvanicus] functioning within these
community types, and (e) to develop a feasible ecosystem
approach to testing stressors on intact ecosystems, including the
identification of "white mice" field parameters Additional
questions to be answered include (1) Are older, more diverse
ecosystems better able to assimilate and recycle nutrient input
than younger, less diverse ecosystems, (2) Will nutrient input
produce trophic level differences between the two community
types, (3) Will small mammal reproduction and/or growth rates
be significantly affected either between control and treatment
plots or between old-field community types, (4) Which type of
ecosystem will manifest the greater net energy benefit to
mankind when treated experimentally with sewage treatment
sludge, and (5) Will sludge research studies serve as a model to
provide knowledge for interface management between man-
made and natural ecosystems'
FY-80
48
-------
Title:
Assessment of Energy—Related Toxicant Stress in an Engineered Ecosystem
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Robert H Boling, Jr The basic objectives of this project are to develop expertise and
refine an experimental facility to evaluate the relevancy of
Institution: toxicant testing protocols (e g , microcosms and other laboratory
Michigan State toxicity tests) to field conditions The facility (two 3000-foot long
University outdoor recirculatory channels) will be stressed by moderate
levels (8 ppm) of p-cresol in controlled 24- and 48-hour tests and
Project Period: the results compared to laboratory predictions
/ year
Budget:
(1 yeari$351,Q95
EPA Project Number:
R307642
49 FY-80
-------
Title:
Neurotoxicity Screening Assay
Principal In vestigator:
Roger E. Davis
Institution:
University of
Michigan
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $72,518
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808064
Summary:
The objective of this study is to further develop a laboratory
protocol for assessing the acute neurotoxicity of chemical
pollutants in vivo The thesis is that developing or regenerating
neurons are more sensitive indicators of towc effects than
mature neurons A toxicant might inhibit neuronal growth at
concentrations which have no apparent effect on the
maintenance of function in mature neurons Regenerating optic
nerve fibers in the goldfish provide an advantageous,
experimental preparation for assessing toxic effects of
substances on neuronal development Regeneration is induced
by crushing the nerve The subsequent recovery of vision is
measured, as an index of the rate of regeneration, by a non-
invasive behavioral technique which permits sequential testing
in individuals Experiments with alkaloid neurotoxms confirm
that the protocol can be used to obtain concentration percent
response data for estimating the relative potency of
neurotoxicants in vivo The first three months of the project has
seen the completion of an improved aquarium facility and
development of new electronic apparatus for conditioning and
testing a respiratory ventilation response to light The facility
permits housing up to eighty fish in individual containers, with
an automatically regulated supply of fresh, dechlormated, pH and
temperature-controlled water Methods of recording respiratory
response, visual stimulus presentation and running the test
trials have been extensively revised
FY-80
50
-------
Title:
Synergistic Effects of Heavy Metals and Macronutrients on Toxicant Bioaccumulation
Principal Investigator:
Linda Sicko Goad
Institution:
University of
Michigan
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 year si $7 3.613
EPA Project Number:
R807516
Summary:
The primary objectives of this project are (1) to determine the
importance of polyphosphate formation in allowing the dispersal
and dominance of nuisance producing phytoplankton populations
in aquatic systems, (2) to determine if polyphosphate formation
is an important mechanism in the uptake and biological transport
and bioaccumulation of toxic heavy metals, and (3) to investigate
the synergistic effects of combined phosphorus and heavy metal
loadings The approach to be used in determining the importance
of polyphosphate as a toxicant dispersal mechanism will consist
of both field and laboratory studies The first year of the project
will be devoted to assessing the importance of polyphosphate in
natural phytoplankton assemblages in Saginaw Bay and
southern Lake Huron Previous demonstrations have shown (1)
that certain phytoplankton populations were exiting the bay and
surviving transport to southern Lake Huron, (2) that many of
these populations had polyphosphate accumulations in them;
and (3) that several of the populations had lead (Pb) sequestered
in the polyphosphate bodies Evaluations will be made by
microscopical methodology to indicate the frequency and
spatial/temporal occurrence of polyphosphate in natural
assemblages in both Saginaw Bay and southern Lake Huron
These data will enable assessment of two important factors (1)
Is there a significant biological/mtracellular tiansport of
phosphate from highly eutrophic areas to less directly affected
parts of the Great Lakes ecosystem, and (2) Did the reduction
(approximately 50%) in phosphorus loading to Saginaw Bay
result in decreased stored phosphates? The second phase of the
research will address the following questions by a series of
laboratory experiments: (1) Does polyphosphate serve as a
phosphorus storage form that allows survival of cells under
conditions of low available phosphorus; (2) Can polyphosphate
be released upon death of transported species and subsequently
stimulate growth of other species, and (3) If lead (and possible
other heavy metals) are sequestered in polyphosphate, can it be
mobilized within the cell when polyphosphate is degraded
enzymatically?
51
FY-80
-------
Title:
Conservative Ion Effects on Phytoplankton
Principal Investigator:
Eugene F Stoermer
Institution:
University of
Michigan
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $117,499
EPA Project Number:
R807547
Summary:
Long-term records of phytoplankton succession in the Great
Lakes suggest that undesirable modifications of the flora result
from low-level sahnification Preliminary evidence suggests that
increased concentrations of certain conservative ions give
certain phytoplankton populations competitive advantage in
uptake of critical or limiting nutrients This problem is
particularly crucial in oligotrophic, long residence systems, such
as the Great Lakes It is proposed that three types of experiments
be conducted' (1) determination of the effects of low-level
perturbations of conservative ion concentration on the growth
rate of specific phytoplanktons; (2) studies using naturally
occurring assemblages to determine if low-level perturbations of
conservative ion concentration causes modifications of
assemblage composition, and (3) retrospective studies of a small
lake system which has a known history of sahnification to
determine if effects generated in the laboratory occur in a
complete ecosystem The results of this study should quantify
the potential for environmental damage from low-level
sahnification and suggest appropriate levels of control
FY-80
52
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Title:
Enhancement of the Removal of Humic Substances and THM Precursors from Water
Supplies
Principal Investigator:
Walter J. Weber, Jr.
Institution:
University of
Michigan
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $163,400
EPA Project Number:
R807359
Summary:
The ubiquity of humic acids in drinking water supplies, coupled
with their significance as tnhalomethane precursors, dictates
the need for development of efficient and cost-effective general
methods for their removal in water treatment operations The
findings of exploratory research indicate that the adsorptive
affinity of activated carbon for humic acids is markedly
dependent upon the presence and concentrations of several
common constituents of water supplies, specifically Ca2*, Mg2+,
and OCr. These findings also suggest that carbon treatment of
water for humic acids removal might be rendered more efficient
and cost-effective in many instances by addition of relatively
common and inexpensive reagents The specific objective of the
proposed research is to increase the amount of quantifiable data
relative to adsorption phenomena, and to explore the possible
enhancement of humic acids removal by optimization of the
carbon adsorption process The exploratory work gives further
evidence that both byconversion and catalytic conversion of
certain fractions of humic acids may be operative in practical
applications of activated carbon in water treatment
Characterization and quantification of the biophysico-chemical
dynamics of humic substance interactions with activated carbon
constitutes a secondary objective of the proposed research
53
FY-80
-------
Title:
The Development of Paniculate Impact Mass Spectrometry for Use in the Analysis of
Nonvolatile Trace Pollutants in Water and Other Systems
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Frank T. Greene The objective of the proposed project is the development of a
technique for the analysis of traces of nonvolatile organic
Institution: materials in water The major emphasis of the project will be on
Midwest Research the characterization of particulate impact mass spectrometry
Institute (PIMS). Experiments will be carried out to characterize the PIMS
volatilization process and to determine the degree of
Project Period: umversatihty of the technique Some research will also be
2 years directed toward increasing the sensitivity of the technique
Budget:
(2 years) $124,193
EPA Project Number:
R807636
FY-80 54
-------
Title:
Ammo Acid Incorporation and RNA/DNA Ratio as Rapid Methods for Toxicily Tests
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Ira R Adelman The project lias been undertaken to determine if ammo acid
incorporation and/or RNA/DNA ratios will be affected by
Institution: toxicants within 96 hours and will predict effects on growth
University of resulting from chronic exposures Larval stage fathead minnows
Minnesota will be exposed to different toxicants in a series of tests During
the first 4 days of exposure, fish will be sampled from each
Project Period: toxicant concentration, RNA and DMA content of whole fish will
2 years be analyzed and 14C-glycine incorporation by axial musculature
will be determined in vitro. At 30 days exposure, the remaining
Budget: fish will be measured and weighed Toxicant concentrations
(1 year) $107,357 affecting actual growth at 30 days will be compared to those
affecting the short-term indicators At present, methodology for
EPA Project Number: the glycine incorporation experiment is being perfected. Uptake
R 807360 is linear up to at least 4 hours
55 FY-80
-------
Title:
The Fate of PNAs During Aqueous CIO? Treatment
Principal Investigator:
Robert M Carlson
Institution:
University of
Minnesota
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $139,113
EPA Project Number:
R 807455
Summary:
The rates and product distributions will be determined for the
reactions of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PNA) m aqueous
chlorine dioxide (CI02) solutions under conditions that will be
encountered in industrial and municipal water treatment
facilities The rate data obtained for each aromatic compound
will be described by equations which would allow the prediction
of the rates of reaction of the compound under any specific set of
conditions The products identified will be synthesized and made
available for biological testing Moreover, these pure compounds
will represent standards for quantitation as well as for
evaluation of environmental samples by gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) The results
obtained in this project will be directly compared to those
obtained in a related project in which chlorine is used as the
oxidant This comparison will aid in the assessment of the
environmental implications of using chlorine dioxide in place of
chlorine or in conjunction with chlorine in water treatment
facilities. The proposed studies will include the determination of
effects of the chlorite (CI02T chlorate (CIO3~) and/or chloride
(Cl~) ions as well as the effects of chlorine (as HOCI, CI2, and/or
OCI ) upon the rates and product distributions of aqueous
chlorine dioxide reactions The information derived from these
experiments will provide insight into the presently unknown
source of chlorine-containing compounds in some reported
chlorine dioxide reactions It will also be of use in optimizing
chlorine dioxide generation and disinfection conditions to
minimize the production of biologically harmful compounds
FY-80
56
-------
Title:
Clinical Approach to Quantitating Formaldehyde Effects in Human Blood
Principal Investigators:
V F Garry
AlfredD Barksdale
Institution:
University of
Minnesota
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
11 year) $29,758
EPA Project Number:
Ft 807220
Summary:
The first purpose of this study is to identify laboratory
methodology and to determine the feasibility of its use for direct
quantitation of formaldehyde effects in man To meet this
primary objective, chemical and bioassay methods as applied to
human peripheral blood will be considered The sensitivity,
specificity and normal range of the assays, as well as their
clinical applicability in routine practice will be evaluated The
second purpose is that of identifying the chemical, biochemical
and immunological mechanisms by which formaldehyde directly
or indirectly produces a diseased state Because of the
complexity of the chemical, biochemical and cellular pathways
which are potential routes to the diseased state associated with
formaldehyde exposure, parallel, multidisciplmary studies of
formaldehyde effects on peripheral blood constituents are
expected to provide the most thorough and rapid analysis of the
problem The experimental approach entails (1) the
documentation of effects of formaldehyde on the formed
elements of blood in order to assess the role of formaldehyde in
producing a diseased state, (2) the development of an assay for
formaldehyde in human peripheral blood, as a first step in
evaluating the effects of formaldehyde on the immune system,
leucocyte chemotaxis, or possible cellular damage, and (3) a
systematic investigation of classical clinical and biochemical
methods as potential means for formaldehyde detection Benefits
of the program include the development of a standard assay for
formaldehyde in blood, and the production of information
concerning the underlying molecular and cellular events
attendant to formaldehyde poisoning
57
FY-80
-------
Title:
A Fundamental Study of the Mechanics of Aerosol Sampling and Samp/ing Inlets
Principal Investigator:
Ben/amm Y H Liu
Institution:
University of
Minnesota
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(1 year) $99,787
EPA Project Number:
R 807471
Summary:
The primary objective of this research program is to make a
fundamental study of the mechanics of aerosol sampling and the
performance of sampling inlets for atmospheric aerosol
sampling. The characteristics of various sampling inlets will be
determined as a function of wind speed and sampling flowrate
Both theoretical and experimental studies will be undertaken;
the ultimate objective is to gam fundamental information on the
particle and fluid mechanics involved so that jnlets of high
efficiency can be designed The output of the program will be a
set of design guidelines which can be used to design inlets of
high efficiency for atmospheric aerosol sampling In addition, a
series of sampling inlets of different flowrates will be designed,
tested and carefully characterized in the wind tunnel so that they
can be used as general purpose inlets for atmospheric aerosol
sampling The theoretical studies will be made by first
determining the flow fields near the entrance to the inlet, and
then determining the particle trajectories through these flow
fields by solving the particle equations of motion The flow fields
used will include the potential flow field similar to that used by
Zebel and viscous flow fields obtained by solving the Navier-
Stokes equations The experimental studies will involve
measuring the sampling efficiency of various aerosol inlets in a
wind tunnel by means of monodisperse test aerosols generated
by a vibrating orifice monodisperse aerosol generator The
computer program for calculating the flow fields and particle
trajectories is in the process of development Wind tunnel
modifications are in progress. One inlet has been constructed
and partially tested and another one is under design A study on
methods for sizing liquid aerosols to be used in the program has
been completed and a finished paper describing this study has
been submitted to a journal
FY-80
58
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Title:
Application of Fourier Transform Mass Spectrometry to the Analysis of Organic Emission
Samples
Principal Investigator:
Charles L Wilkms
Institution:
University of
Nebraska
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $107,959
EPA Project Number:
R807251
Summary:
The objective of this project is the development of a new GC-
mass Spectrometry tool of unparalleled speed, resolution, and
sensitivity by means of continued development of the Fourier
transform mass spectrometer. This spectrometer, which is used
as an analytical tool, will provide capabilities for high speed, high
sensitivity analysis of complex mixtures This will be
accomplished by design and installation of an interface between
a capillary column gas chromatograph and a Fourier transform
mass spectrometer This combination is expected to allow
realization of the enormous analytical potential of the recently-
established Fourier transform mass spectrometric technique
One focus of the research will be the development of suitable
hardware/software interfaces which permit computer-controlled
electron impact and low pressure chemical mnization analysis to
be carried out on the same samples in rapid sequence. The new
techniques thus developed will be evaluated for practical
analytical usefulness by analysis of representative mixtures
containing polycyclic organic matter (POM) typical of organic
stack emission samples Quantitative comparisons of the results
of such analysis will be made with results from benchmark
measurements performed using the ultrahigh resolution MS-
5076 mass spectrometer available in the laboratory
59
FY-80
-------
Title:
Toxicity of Heavy Metals to Microbes and Microbe-Mediated Ecologic Processes' Effect of
Chemical Form and Environmental Factors
Principal Investigator-
Guenther Stotzky
Institution:
New York University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $256,000
EPA Project Number.
R808329
Summary:
The results of this study will provide more comprehensive
knowledge of the interactions of heavy metals with the abiotic
components of aquatic and terrestrial environments and of the
effects of these interactions on the potential toxicity of heavy
metals to microorganisms and microbe-mediated ecological
processes This data will provide a basis for establishing new
criteria for environmental toxicants and will serve as a guide to
research on ameliorating the toxic effects of these pollutants
The information derived from this research will be used to
formulate ecological dosage 50% (ED50) values, which can be
used to set criteria The ED50 concept has many applications Its
concept and formulation has three mam advantages over setting
of criteria based solely on LD5o values (1) an ED5o reduction in
one ecosystem can easily be correlated with an equivalent
reduction in the same ecological process in a different
ecosystem, (2) EDso value reflects the response of spectrum of
organisms to a common pollutant; and (3) an ED5o value enables
a direct comparison of the relative fragility of different
environments to the same pollutant. The implementation of EDso
values would provide a simple and effective means of regulator
toxicants in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems
FY-80
60
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Effects of Exposure to Summertime Haze Episodes on the Health of Children
Principal In vestigator:
Morton Lippmann
Institution:
New York University
Medical Center
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $80.174
EPA Project Number:
R807723
Summary:
The objectives of the proposed study are (1) to characterize
ambient air pollutants, especially ozone and sulfunc acid, in a
small, western Pennsylvania city, and (2) to characterize
responses to these air pollutants among exposed children There
are no major local pollution sources nearby, but New York City is
in the region most affected by large regional scale summertime
pollution episodes which originate in the Ohio River Valley The
project will involve comparison of the pollutant levels measured
during a Prolonged Elevated Pollution Episode (PEPE) and the
population responses recorded in the health effects studies The
mam feature of these analyses will be correspondences drawn
between decreases in pulmonary function, such as in FEVi 0,
FEVo75, and FVC, and increases in air pollution Confounding
factors of disease and other physiological and environmental
stresses will be considered from the results of the questionnaire
analyses At a minimum, population exposure estimates to the
measured pollutants will be determined.
61
FY-80
-------
Title:
Electrosorptlon of Phenol on Activated Carbon from Dilute Aqueous Solutions
Principal In vestigator:
Peter S, Fedkiw
Institution:
North Carolina
State University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years/ $49,077
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808216
Summary:
The purpose of this project is to determine the technological
feasibility of increasing the adsorption capacity of an activated
carbon adsorber for dilute nonionic organic species by applying
an electrical potential to the adsorbent The applied potential,
depending upon its magnitude, will either increase or decrease
the free energy of adsorption Adsorption under an imposed
voltage is called electrosorption to distinguish it from adsorption
in the absence of an applied electric field The requisite
characteristics of a successful electrosorption process are
described Control of the applied potential is crucial; too high
(positive) or too low (negative) of an applied potential will cause
unwanted faradaic oxidations and reductions, respectively If the
electrosorption process is reversible, a simple change of the
polarity of the applied voltage to the carbon can be used to
regenerate the bed This electroregeneration should be
compared to the more complex solvent or stream stripping
procedures used for regeneration of conventional adsorbers
Removal of phenol from a dilute (less than 100 ppm) aqueous
solution will be used as the model system Phenol is one of the
hazardous pollutants which is found in the condensate water
from a coal gasification plant. The two principal objectives are
(1) to determine the equilibrium electrosorption isotherm of
phenol on activated carbon, and (2) to evaluate the elution
characteristics of a fixed-bed activated carbon electrosorber The
effects of temperature, pH, 02 content, phenol concentration and
applied voltage on the equilibrium electrosorption isotherm will
be studied
FY-80
62
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Title:
Modeling Observed Hydrocarbon Mixture Reactivity Effects
Principal Investigator:
Harvey E Jeffries
Institution:
University of
North Carolina
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years} $184,603
EPA Project Number:
R807762
Summary:
The objective of this project is to make photochemical kinetics
models (PKMs) for use in urban air shed simulation models
(UASMs) that correctly represent the effects that occur when the
composition of urban hydrocarbon (HC) mixtures change
Necessary sub-objectives are (1) to generate a systematic data
base that describes experimentally the effects of changing HC
composition in a readily modelable chamber using urban-like
chemical and physical conditions, (2) to model these experiments
with PKMs now in use, and (3) to reconcile the difference
between the models and experiments by changing the models
The overall approach is a direct comparison of model and
experiment. The methods to be used include. (1) computer
simulations using existing PKMs, (2) mathematical and
mechanistic analysis of cause-and-effect relationships in
models; (3) dual smog chamber experiments in which identical
conditions are used on both sides except for HC composition to
directly and systematically demonstrate the effects of
composition changes; and (4) subsequent remodeling with
modified cause-and-effect relationships to improve predictions.
The primary product will be better models for use in UASMs.
Other products will include a magnetic tape archive of
experiment results, EPA reports and journal publications in
which experiments and model results will be discussed, and
suggestions for expanding fundamental research in support of
these models.
63
FY-80
-------
Title:
Effect of Various Nitrogen Sources and Management Practices on Water Quality of Cattle
Pasture Surface and Subsurface Runoff Water
Principal Investigator:
R W VanKeuren
Institution:
Ohio Agricultural
Research and
Development Center
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $127,179
EPA Project Number:
R808098
Summary:
The purpose of this project is to determine the effect of several
nitrogen sources and establish the best management practices
for forage production and cattle grazing on hill lands in order to
improve the quality of surface and subsurface runoff water Beef
cow and calf herds will be kept under three forage/livestock
management systems Each area will have instrumented
watersheds A wooded, central watershed will be monitored as a
control (background level) Surface water runoff and sediment
and subsurface water will be collected and measured Sub-
samples will then be taken to determine the levels of mineral
and organic nitrogen, phosphorus, and other chemical
measurements of the water and sediment Standard laboratory
procedures will be used for making the above determinations
During 1981 the effect of summer grazing and winter feeding of
cattle on water quality and sediment movement on two forage
programs will be studied at two test sites. One test plot will have
a moderate level of soil fertility and several fertilizer nitrogen
sources for summer grass pasture, with winter feeding of large
round bales in one of the four summer pastures The other plot
will have low soil fertility, continuously grazed summer pasture,
no applied fertilizer, with large round bales fed into pasture
during winter. Also, orchard grass-alfalfa and tall fescue-alfalfa
fields were established in 1980 for a high soil fertility/grass
legume study to be initiated in 1981
FY-80
64
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Title:
Fate of Environmentally Induced DNA Damage in Human Fetal Tissues
Principal In vestigator:
Steven M.
D'Ambrosio
Institution:
Ohio State University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years} $173,237
EPA Project Number:
Ft 807693
Summary:
Previous studies have shown that (a) alkylatmg agents and
polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are potent transplacental
carcinogens at least in the rodent animal models, (b) human
epidemiological data indicate that over 90% of the cancers
detected within the first ten years of life are thought to originate
by exposure of the fetus to carcinogen, (c) DNA damage and
repair (or lack of it) plays an important role in the initiation of
cancer, (d) DNA repair changes during rodent embryogenesis,
and (e) there appear to be differences in the level of repair, at
least for ultraviolet radiation, in human cells derived from
different organs of the same fetus This research project
proposes as its main objectives to (a) determine the effects of
environmental agents upon cells in culture derived from human
fetal and embryonic tissues, and (b) understand the molecular
events leading to the role of DNA damage and repair in the
induction of human transplacental carcmogenesis in humans.
65
FY-80
-------
Title:
Disinfection of Giardia lamblia Cysts with Chlorine, Chlorine Dioxide and Ozone
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Otis J Sprout The project will determine the mactivation kinetics of cysts of
Giardia lamblia and Naeglena gruben using chlorine, chlorine
institution: dioxide and ozone as disinfectants The effects of pH, contact
Ohio State University time, cyst and disinfectant concentration, and temperature will
Research Foundation be determined
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $116,573
EPA Project Number:
R808150
FY-80 66
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Title:
Organic Micropollutants in Urban Precipitation
Principal Investigator:
James F Pankow
Institution:
Oregon Graduate
Center
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $115,317
EPA Project Number:
Ft 807239
Summary:
The objectives of this project are (1) to determine identities and
concentrations of organic compounds present in precipitation
falling in Portland, Oregon and Los Angeles, California, (2) to
correlate these data with concentrations of inorganic
constituents, (3) to determine the atmospheric levels of these
organics during storm events, (4) to compare precipitation and
atmospheric levels of the organics and determine the extent
these same organics are scavenged from the atmosphere, and
(5) to determine and describe the relative magnitudes of gas and
aerosol scavenging Both the dissolved and paniculate organics
will be concentrated from precipitation samples using resin
adsorption and solvent extraction techniques. Gaseous and
aerosol organics will be concentrated from atmospheric samples
using resin traps and filters. Analysis of the organics will be
carried out by GO/MS and that of the inorganics by inductively
coupled organ plasma spectroscopy, ion chromatography, and
potentiometry
67
FY-80
-------
Title:
Evaluation of Chemical Receptor Models for Air Partlculate Source Impact Assessment Using
the PACs Data Set
Principal Investigator: Summary:
John A Cooper The primary objective of this program is to fundamentally
study the mechanics of aerosol sampling and the performance of
Institution: sampling inlets The ultimate objective is to gain an
Oregon Graduate understanding of the particle and fluid mechanics involved so
Center for Study and that improved inlets of high efficiency can be developed and
Research design guidelines established A series of sampling inlets of
different flowrates will also be developed and tested so that they
Project Period: can be used directly by researchers and monitoring agencies for
2 years atmospheric aerosol sampling and measurement
Budget:
(2 years) $140,500
EPA Project Number:
R 807375
FY-80 68
-------
Title:
Measurement of the Dry Deposition Velocity of Atmospheric Aerosol Particles
Principal In vestigator:
Paul C Katen
Institution:
Oregon State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $219,252
EPA Project Number:
R807902
Summary:
The basic objective of this proposal is to investigate, improve
and compare measurements and the measuring instruments
used for determining the dry deposition velocity (Vd) of
atmospheric aerosol particles by the profile and eddy-correlation
methods. Specifically, a PMS ASAS-300 A and a Royco 225 will
be developed into sensors that can be used to make aerosol flux
measurements by the eddy-correlation technique These sensors
will allow detailed vd measurements (as small as 0 01 /urn) for
particles over a narrow range of 0 15 to 20 /urn in diameter
Additional measurements and improvements will be made in a
flux measurement system that utilizes an integrating
nephelometer, to assess the systems' limitations and general
usefulness Signals will be processed primarily by analog signal
multipliers but digital methods will also be used for verification
Multiple and simultaneous applications of these sensors will
allow comparison for profile and eddy-correlation measurements
as well as correlation of the various measurements with
pertinent meteorological factors. The data collected in this
measurement program will also allow for the direct evaluation of
the modified Bowen Ratio and Variance Methods for determining
vd In addition, a test program will be conducted with other
researchers, possibly at Argonne National Laboratory, where
simultaneous measurements by various groups of investigators
will be compared and evaluated
69
FY-80
-------
Title:
Environmental Contaminants Effects on Tumor Growth and Immunity
Principal Investigator:
Nancy I Kerkv/iet
Institution:
Oregon State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(3 years) $179.272
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808204
Summary:
The primary objective of this proposal is to confirm and extend
preliminary findings that exposure of adult mice to
pentachlorophenol is immunosuppressive resulting in profound
enhancement of both transplanted and virus-induced tumor
growth The three specific aims of the proposed research are (1)
to identify, by use of a battery of in vitro immunological assays,
the cell type(s) and function(s) altered by PCP exposure which
contribute to enhanced tumor growth, (2) to extend these
findings to prenatal/neonatal exposure studies, incorporating
tests for both host susceptibility to tumor growth and the in vitro
assessment of immune function, and (3) to use those assays
which are most sensitive and predictive of altered immune
function in PCP-exposed animals and identify the exposure
levels and duration of exposure to PCP necessary to induce
immune dysfunction A complete battery of immunologic assays
will be utilized in these studies to determine the cell type(s) and
function(s) of the immune system altered by PCP exposure Both
general immunocompetence assays such as mitogen stimulation
and mixed lymphocyte reaction as well as assays specific for
anti-tumor immunity will be incorporated The experiments
proposed m this project will provide the opportunity to compare
the various in vitro assays for sensitivity, reproducibihty and
ability to reflect altered in vivo response A preliminary objective
of this research is to establish whether tumor enhancement and
immunosuppression are associated with exposure to pure PCP
Animals have been placed on diets containing 500, 1000 or
2000 ppm pure PCP or, as a positive control, 250 ppm technical
(86%) PCP After 1 2 weeks of exposure, the animals will be
injected with Moloney Sarcoma virus Regressor animals will be
inoculated with a progressive dose of MSB sarcoma cells Tumor
growth parameters will be monitored
FY-80
70
-------
Title:
Pulmonary Effects of Ozone and Benzo(a)pyrene in Rats with Altered Antloxidant /Selenium
and Vitamin E) Defense Potential
Principal Investigator:
Edward J Massaro
Institution.
Pennsylvania State
University
Project Period.
2 years
Budget:
(2 years} $246,522
EPA Project Number:
R807746
Summary:
The objectives of this project are to study verified vitamin E
and/or selenium deficiencies in the rat and to investigate the
effects of the deficiencies on pulmonary lipid metabolism,
pulmonary antioxidant defense mechanisms, alveolar
macrophage function, pulmonary prostaglandin metabolism, and
the function of the mixed function oxidase system of the lung
The following hypothesis will be tested uncontrolled lipid
peroxidation, a potential consequence of inadequate selenium
and vitamin E nutrition, can result in the damage of various
types of pulmonary cells, subcellular organelles and lung
defense functions, including the metabolism of xenobiotics Both
in vivo and in vitro procedures will be utilized to evaluate aspects
of total lung and surface-active lipid metabolism, the lung's
susceptibility to membrane lipid peroxidation, its response to
potential mutagenic and/or carcinogenic insult resulting from
oxidative metabolism of benzo(a)pyrene, and the effects of
prostaglandm-like cyclic endoperoxides on the levels of cyclic
nucleotides in lung tissue The research methods to be employed
include spectrophotometric and isotope assays of enzyme
activity, polarographic determmatoin of oxygen utilization by
isolated type II cells and mitochondria, in vivo incorporation of
tritium from 3H20 into pulmonary lipids, isolation of type II
alveolar cells, and thin layer and high pressure liquid
chromatographic techniques for the analysis of membrane hpids,
prostaglandin and benzo(a)pyrene metabolites Cyclic nucleotide
levels will be determined by radioimmunoassay Phagocytic and
bactericidal activity of alveolar macrophages will be assessed by
microscopic determination of ingested bacteria and the viability
(colony-forming capacity) of a temperature-sensitive mutant of E
coli Antmeoplastic activity of macrophages will be determined
by isotope procedures involving labeled erythrocytes and
lymphocytes and the lysis of several tumor cell lines
71
FY-80
-------
Title:
Case Control Study of Water Quality and Adenomatous Polyps
Principal Investigator:
Jonathan Amsel
Institution:
University of
Pennsylvania
Project Period:
18 months
Budget:
IV/2 years) $125,220
EPA Protect Number:
Ft 807750
Summary:
This project will explore the possibility of an association
between the occurrence of colonic polyps and the quality of
drinking water A case-control design will be used comparing
colonic polyp patients diagnosed by double contrast barium
enema with nonpolyp patients who have had a double contrast
barium enema which showed no abnormalities of any kind
Differences in water quality, based on residential history,
between cases and controls will be examined (Much of this
information has already been collected ) Residential history,
consumption of drinking water and selected other information
will be obtained from the subjects through mailed
questionnaires Telephone followup and, when necessary,
personal interviews will be used for individuals who do not
respond to the questionnaires. Results of this study will have
application with regard to detection of individuals at high risk for
polyps In addition, information about the health impact of
constituents in drinking water can be used to set more
meaningful standards
FY-80
72
-------
Title:
A Study of Diesel Exhaust Effects in Railroad Workers
Principal Investigator:
Frank E Speizer
Institution:
Peter Bent Bngham
Hospital
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years} $973,646
EPA Project Number:
R807515
Summary:
This study is designed to evaluate the effects of chronic
exposure to diesel exhaust Exposure will be quantified and
characterized as to the nature of the polycyclic hydrocarbons
Extensive monitoring will be carried out in selected railroad
yards employing two distinct epidemiologic approaches (1) A
group of approximately 80,000 men aged 50 to 64 (in 1964) and
having more than 10 years of exposure will be traced to 1980
Total work exposure to diesel exhaust and the outcome, in terms
of mortality by specific cause, will be determined. (2) A case
control study of incident deaths totalling approximately 300 lung
cancer cases, 300 chronic respiratory disease cases and 600
controls in current and retired railroad workers to age 80 will
also be conducted Next-of-km interviews will be used to
determine detailed smoking and residence histories and
occupational exposure will be determined from the Railroad
Retirement Board's records
73
FY-80
-------
Title:
Economical Solution for Bulking Problem Associated with Activated Sludge
Principal Investigator:
Yeun C Wu
Institution:
University of
Pittsburgh
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years! $103,204
EPA Project Number:
R807600
Summary.
The proposed research is to investigate the kinetic theory of
species selection and to demonstrate the combination of
microbial selectors with plug-flow reactors instead of the
conventional single reactor plug-flow system Reactor systems
can successfully eliminate the development of filamentous
organisms to a certain extent so that the settling properties of
the activated sludge will not be significantly affected by crucial
factors, such as the organic substrate loading rate. The objective
of this study is five-fold (1) to determine the optimum volume
ratio of the selector to the plug-flow reactor under a wide range
of substrate and operating conditions, (2) to collect kinetic
information from the modified activated sludge system and then
to compare the data with that generated from the conventional
plug-flow activated sludge system, (3) to study the morphology
and structure of activated sludge in response to growth
conditions, (4) to determine the most effective alternative to the
control of sludge recycle in the modified activated sludge system,
and (5) to estimate the cost-effectiveness of the proposed
activated sludge system The experiments will be performed in
two 50-gallon activated sludge pilot plants which are
constructed of plexiglass Both reactor systems are to be
operated with cellular recycle at room temperature under the
controlled pH of 7 0 The quantity of oxygen added to each
system will be precisely controlled to insure that the dissolved
oxygen content of the mixed liquor suspended solids will be
maintained at the desired level throughout the study Synthetic
and domestic wastewaters will be used to feed both activated
sludge systems
FY-80
74
-------
Title:
Atmospheric Hydroxyl Experimental Studies
Principal In vest/gator:
Thomas M Hard
Institution:
Port/and (Oregon)
State University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $198,502
EPA Project Number:
R807733
Summary:
Hydroxyl (HO) is sunlight's chief agent in cleansing the lower
atmosphere of trace gases that do not dissolve in rain In urban
air, however, intermediate products of this cleansing process
have unwanted effects This project seeks to obtain an empirical
relation between daylight spectral intensities and HO under
various urban air compositions, and to achieve better theoretical
understanding of the photochemical mechanism that maintains
HO To attain these goals, experiments will be conducted to (1)
improve the accuracy and sensitivity of the determination of
atmospheric HO by laser-excited fluorescence, (2) monitor
ambient HO and the photochemical quantities that govern it, and
(3) observe the response of HO to strong modulation of daylight
Substantial gams m sensitivity have been achieved by expanding
the sampled air, folding the laser beam, and in time
discrimination Spectral and temporal characterization of
interferences is in progress
75
FY-80
-------
Title:
Trophic State Assessment and Prediction by Aeromonas hydrophlla Densities
Principal Investigator:
Victor J Cabelli
Institution:
University of Rhode
Island
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $120,745
EPA Project Number:
Ft 807252
Summary:
The overall objective of the project is to further explore a
previously shown relationship of the A hydrophlla densities in
fresh bodies of water to their trophic states It is proposed that
the data base be expanded by documenting relationships as
evidenced through studies of additional lakes during the
summers of 1981 and 1982 Growth studies will be conducted to
determine (1) whether the growth kinetics of A. hydrophlla
seeded into raw and/or treated (heat, filtration, etc ) water
samples also correlate with the trophic state of the body of
water, (2) nutrients whose concentrations in ohgotrophic waters
limit the growth of the organisms, and (3) interactions with other
limnetic biota (i.e , predation, competition, antibiosis) which also
affect the ultimate A hydrophlla densities obtained and the
observed relationship to the trophic state Experimental
conditions have been defined wherein A hydrophlla multiplies in
samples of eutrophic water to final densities of 106-106/ml with
generation time approximately every four hours Some
preliminary data obtained suggest that with mesotrophic and
oligotrophic waters, the generation times are longer than in
eutrophic waters However, data have been obtained indicating
that interactions with other components of the ecosystem (i e ,
predation, competition, antibiosisl also influence A hydrophlla
densities attained in the laboratory and probably those in situ
These studies are being continued
FY-80
76
-------
Title:
Improved Scoring of Chemical Transformation of C3H/10T1/2 Cells
Principal Investigator: Summary:
CharlesHeidelberger The objective of this project is to improve the scoring of
oncogenic transformation of C3H/10T1/2 mouse embryo
Institution: fibroblasts by chemical carcinogens This will be accomplished
University of by developing monoclonal antibodies to cell-surface embryonic
Southern California antigens common to chemically transformed cells and using
these antibodies to provide a radioimmunoassay and an indirect
Project Period: fluorescence assay to quantitate transformation. Studies of
2 years transformation will be performed using the scanning electron
microscope to determine cell-surface morphological changes
Budget' These changes will be correlated with the embryonic cell-surface
12 years) $367 108 antigens The use of activated macrophages to kill selectively
transformed cells, thus scoring for transformation, will also be
EPA Project Number: explored
R808309
77 FY-80
-------
Title:
Retardation of Volatilization Rate of Chemicals by Sediments and Surface Active Layers
Principal Investigator: Summary:
R Thomas Podoll, The purpose of this project is to investigate the retardation of
James H. Smith the volatilization rate of organic chemicals from water (i e.,
retardation caused by adsorption of the organic on suspended
Institution: sediments and by the diffusional resistance of an insoluble
SRI International monolayer) To study the effect of adsorption on mass transfer
retardation, volatilization rates will be measured in the presence
Project Period: and absence of suspended sediments. Adsorption isotherms will
2 years also be measured to determine the amount of chemical adsorbed
and to estimate the rate of adsorption To study mass transfer
Budget' retardation by insoluble monolayers, volatilization rates will be
12 years) $169 000 measured in the presence and absence of insoluble monolayers
of long chain aliphatic alcohols Water evaporation rates will also
EPA Project Number: be measured to normalize monolayer diffusional resistances.
R807710
FY-80 78
-------
Title:
Anaerobic Degradation of Tnhalomethanes
Principal In vestigator.
Perry L McCarty
Institution'
Stanford University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $212.712
EPA Project Number:
R808034
Summary:
Tnhalomethanes, produced by chlonnation of water supplies,
are widely distributed in aquatic environments Due to the
potential health significance of trihalomethanes, their
concentration in water is regulated Previous research has
determined trihalomethanes to be readily degradable under
anaerobic conditions, while refractory under aerobic conditions
The objective of this study is to further investigate the anaerobic
degradation of halogenated organics, particularly
trihalomethanes Laboratory studies will be conducted (1) to
determine the biotic and abiotic conditions that lead to the
degradation of trihalomethanes, (2) to identify intermediate and
end products of degradation through gas chromatographic/mass
spectrometnc analysis, and (3) to identify factors affecting rate of
degradation, including chemical structure and environmental
conditions Research is currently underway to determine
mechanisms and intermediates in tnhalomethane
decomposition
79
FY-80
-------
Title:
Estimation of Environmental Impact on Population Growth Using Stochastic Dynamic Models
Principal Investigator:
Lev R Ginzburg
Institution:
State University of
New York (SUNY)
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $120,037
EPA Project Number'
R807885
Summary:
Natural populations live in unpredictable environments All
characteristics of population growth are subject in some degree
to random fluctuations induced by the dynamics of
environmental parameters Standard methods for assessing
impacts on natural populations are based on the averaged
parameters and therefore can be quite misleading Even with a
positive average growth rate there is a finite probability of
extinction (or so-called quasi-extinction) which can be significant
if the variability of the growth rate is high The hypothesis of a
stationary age distribution, or any kind of determinism, in the
models which are typically used leads to a completely distorted
picture of what is actually happening and does not aid the
decision makers in making intelligent managerial decisions
Therefore, the proposed project will investigate the opportunity
of using stochastic models of population growth for formulating
reasonable criteria for environmental impact estimates
expressed in probabilistic language.
FY-80
80
-------
Title:
Inact/vat/on of Single Particles and Aggregates ofRotavirus by Chlorine and Chlorine Dioxide
in Water
Principal In vestigator:
Roger Floyd
Institution:
Taylor College of
Medicine
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years] $156,364
EPA Project Number:
R 807990
Summary:
The objectives of this project are to examine the reactions of
rotavirus to chlorine and chlorine dioxide and to determine how
the aggregation and adsorption of virus particles affect viral
mactivation Rotavirus is a contaminant of dnnkmg water It is of
considerable importance, therefore, to determine the sensitivity
of rotavirus to chlorine, the most common water disinfecting
agent in use today, and to chlorine dioxide, a potential
replacement for chlorine In water, virus particles may assume
various configurations with respect to each other and to debris in
the water—they may occur as single particles, as aggregates, or
they may be adsorbed to larger particles of debris Since the
amount of work on chlorine mactivation of viruses is not
extensive, considerable work will be necessary to explain the
basic mechanisms of viral mactivation by chlorine and other
agents Previous work on a related virus has indicated that single
particles of virus are inactivated readily by chlorine However,
when virus particles become aggregated, mactivation becomes
seriously impaired The reaction of both single particle and
aggregates of rotavirus to chlorine and chlorine dioxide will be
examined and compared.
81
FY-80
-------
Title:
Neurobiological Effects of Drilling Fluid on an Intact Mollusc, Aplysia
Principal Investigator:
James £. Kanz
Institution:
Texas A & M
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $78,164
EPA Project Number:
R807137
Summary:
The objective of this investigation is to determine the lethal
and nonlethal effects of oil-rig drilling fluid on the nervous
system and behavior of an intact, freely-behaving animal, the
marine gastropod Aplysia To do this, recording electrodes will be
implanted on the nerves of the Aplysia that mediate respiration,
cardiac activity, kidney efflux rate, gill and siphon reflexive
withdrawal, and neuronal pacemaker activity The neuronal
activity related to these functions will be monitored before and
after the introduction of various concentrations of drilling fluid
Extracellular neuronal activity of the Aplysia will be analyzed by
computer neurons contributing to in vivo records This will
provide (1) a more sensitive bioassay of drilling fluid toxicity
than behavioral observations alone, (2) a means to correlate
short term neuronal changes (induced by drilling fluid) with long
term exposure effects, and (3) a means by which a potential
toxin's effects on the nervous system can be monitored in intact,
unrestrained animals Alread.y neuronal recording techniques
and procedures for computer analysis of activity from neuronal
populations in intact animals have been developed. This
research will use these important neurobiological advances to
assess the impact of drilling fluids on a marine organism
FY-80
82
-------
Title:
The Effect of Herbicides on the Algal Metabolism of Two Agricultural Stream Communities
Principal Investigator:
Robert J Kosmski
Institution:
Texas A & M
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $117,094
EPA Project Number:
R 807978
Summary:
Federal law mandates the protection of nontarget organisms
from the effects of pesticides One of the first nontarget
communities that most pesticides will contact will be an
agricultural stream Yet almost nothing is known about pesticide
effects on lotic1 systems or the ability of those systems to adapt to
pesticide exposure This project will evaluate the effects of four
herbicides on artificial stream communities that have had both
long term and short term opportunity to evolve herbicide
resistance. The herbicides will be Aatrex, Treflan, MSMA and
Paraquat, and will be tested in that order. The artificial streams
will be outdoor, recirculating wooden troughs lined with plastic
sheeting and a layer of pebbles The streams will be allowed to
develop penphyton communities derived from water from two
Texan sources the Little Brazos River, which has had much
exposure to agricultural runoff and probably has developed a
resistant benthic flora, and Minter Spring, which has had a
longstanding chemical stability and no pesticide exposure. Half
the streams will colonize with the addition of 0 01 ppm of the
test herbicide to the water. The ability of the community to
evolve resistance from short term, low level exposure will be
evaluated. After three weeks of colonization 0.01,1 and 10 ppm
herbicide will be added. There will be four streams with 0 01
ppm prior exposure and four streams without it for each
concentration in addition to four prior exposure and four no prior
exposure streams reserved as controls. System responses will be
followed for three weeks after herbicide addition Variables
monitored at weekly or more frequent intervals during both the
colonization and post-addition period will be community
phytosynthesis and respiration (by open water oxygen methods),
biomass accumulation (by ATP and chlorophyll concentrations),
community composition (by slide colonization) and water
chemistry In 1981 Minter Spring-derived communities will be
tested Approximate starting dates for each herbicide will be
April 1 (Aatrex), May 15 (Treflan), July 15 (MSMA) and
September 15 (Paraquat). Since the order of herbicides was
derived from the approximate times of usage in the field, the
dates and herbicide order will be the same for Little Brazos-
derived communities.
83
FY-80
-------
Title:
Relative Uptake, Disposition and Toxic Effects of Inhaled and Ingested Dich/oroethy/enes
Principal In vestigator:
James V Bruckner
Institution:
University of Texas
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $275,128
EPA Project Number:
R808282
Summary:
Information on the toxic potential of many of the organic
contaminants of drinking water is quite meager Data available
on one class of contaminants of particular concern, the short-
chain aliphatic halocarbons, is limited largely to exposure via the
respiratory tract Thus, one is faced with the uncertainty of the
applicability of inhalation data in predicting risks of toxic injury
upon consumption of halocarbons in water The overall objective
of the proposed project, therefore, is to establish the scientific
basis for the practice of deriving water quality standards for
volatile organics by extrapolation of results from inhalation
toxicology studies A major objective is to compare the uptake
and disposition of equivalent doses of halocarbons given orally
and by inhalation Three halocarbons will be studied, namely
1,1-dichloroethylene(1,1-DCE), cis-1,1 -DCE and trans-1,2-DCE
Their relative absorption and bioavailability from the G I and
respiratory tracts of rats will initially be characterized Blood
levels of the parent compounds will be monitored at selected
intervals after dosing by gas chromatographic analysis The
rapidity and extent of systemic absorption of a range of doses of
each halocarbon will be determined under varying exposure
conditions Based upon these findings, the relative uptake and
elimination of ingested versus inhaled halocarbons in brain,
liver, kidney and adipose tissue of rats and mice will be
delineated Additional groups of animals will be similarly dosed
with MC-labeled halocarbons in order that the relative
disposition and binding of metabolites in the liver and kidney
may be determined The subcellular distribution of covalently-
bound radiolabel will also be examined in these tissues Urinary
elimination of radioactivity will be monitored as an additional
index of halocarbon metabolism and excretion Finally, the
narcotic potency and hepatorenal toxicity of equivalent oral and
respiratory doses of 1,1-DCE and 1,2-DCE will be assessed and
correlated with levels of the parent compounds and/or bound
metabolites in the respective target tissues Thereby it can be
determined whether the disposition and ensuing bioeffects of
halocarbons are dependent not only upon the route of exposure,
but upon their propensity for metabolism as well
FY-80
84
-------
Title:
Colloidal Metal Carcinogenic and Toxic Action
Principal Investigator:
Max Costa
Institution:
University of Texas
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $205,873
EPA Project Number:
R808048
Summary:
Various tissue culture systems will be used to study the
mechanisms of paniculate metal induced carcmogenesis A
number of paniculate metal compounds will be tested for their
carcinogenic activities in the cell transformation assay (It is not
possible to completely test the carcinogenic activity of all metal
compounds in one study, however, the cell transformation assay
will be applied to those metal compounds which are actively
phagocytized since this appears to be a primary determinant of a
water insoluble metal compound's carcinogenic or toxic action )
Selected metal compounds having different cancer causing
activities will be compared for their uptake, sub-cellular
localization and site of cellular action during the early stages of
neoplastic transformation Phagocytosis and distribution of the
paniculate metals will be studied in intact cells by means of light
microscopy; video intensification light microscopy (video
recordings of living cells), electron microscopy, and elemental
mapping with energy dispersive X-ray analysis integrated with
transmission electron microscopy Parallel biochemical studies
will focus upon isolating and purifying cellular components (i e ,
isolate nuclei and nuclear DNA, RNA and protein) to determine
molecular metal binding sites Metal concentrations in isolated
cell fractions will be measured by means of X-ray fluorescence,
while crystalline structure of metal compounds in these fractions
will be determined by powder X-ray diffraction The biochemical
and intact cell approach will also be applied to study the effect of
inhibitors that disrupt metal induced carcmogenesis or that
disrupt specific cellular functions (i e , colchicme,
dansylcadaverme, etc ) Mechanism studies will also focus upon
correlating whether carcinogenic metals cause DNA repair, or
induce mutations in mammalian cells These and other studies
will help determine whether metals are initiators and/or
promotors of carcmogenesis.
85
FY-80
-------
Title:
Flocculation and Sedimentation of Polydisperse Suspensions in Water Treatment
Principal In vest/gator:
Desmond Law/er
Institution:
University of Texas
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $99,250
EPA Project Number:
R808192
Summary:
The objectives of this proposed project are to study the
behavior of particles (changes in the particle size distribution) in
polydisperse suspensions undergoing flocculation and
sedimentation, and (2) to use the data gathered in experiments
and field measurements to test the validity of previously
developed mathematical models for flocculation and
sedimentation of polydisperse suspensions in water treatment
plants. The approach is to conduct a three phase study
consisting of (1) batch laboratory experiments, (2) continuous
flow laboratory experiments; and (3) field measurements at a
water treatment plant. The principal independent variable for all
three phases will be the particle size distribution Other
suspension characteristics and operating parameters will be
measured Predictions of the model for particle size distributions
will be compared, using several criteria, with measurements
from each phase of the study
FY-80
86
-------
Title:
Combined Testing Protocol for Detecting Environmental Mutagenic Agents
Principal Investigator:
Marvin S Legator
Institution:
University of Texas
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2yearsl$369,W3
EPA Project Number:
R807820
Summary:
Mutagemcity testing of chemicals in animals is often done by
conducting a battery of tests in separate animals This project
utilizes an integrated version of this approach in which several
tests are conducted simultaneously on each animal exposed to
an agent This combined testing protocol includes metaphase
analysis of bone marrow lymphocytes, the micronucleus test in
polyachromatic bone marrow erythrocytes, the detection of
mutagenic substances in urine and the host-mediated assay
using microbial indicators As an adjunct to the combined testing
protocol, sperm abnormalities are evaluated in separate animals
The proposed studies will evaluate several chemicals and
develop several additional procedures to be evaluated for
possible inclusion in the protocol Chemicals to be tested include
acrolem, naphthalene, toluene, and 4,4-methylenediphenyl
disocyanote Additional procedures to be evaluated for possible
inclusion in the protocol include detection of DMA damage by
alkaline filter elution techniques with bone marrow cells, use of
neoplastic transformation and mammalian cell point mutation
assays as indicators in the host mediated assay, use of an
immunological assay for Hy antigen for detection of mutations
and detection of chromosomal abnormalities in germinal cells
87
FY-80
-------
Title:
Molecular Biology, Pathogen/city and Ecology of Bacterial Plasmids—A Conference
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Swart B Levy Organization, planning and implementation grant for an
international meeting on plasmids, Santo Domingo, Dominican
Institution: Republic, January 5-9, 1981
Tufts University
School of Medicine
Project Period:
1 week
Budget:
(3 months) $10,125
EPA Project Number:
R808502
FY-80 88
-------
Title:
Colo-Rectal Cancer, Water Contaminants and Related Morbidity
Principal Investigator:
Manse S Gottlieb
Institution:
Tulane University
School of Medicine
Project Period.
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $367, J44
EPA Project Number:
R807804
Summary:
The purpose of this project is to conduct a case/control study
of 250 incident cases of rectal and 300 incident cases of colon
cancer An attempt will be made to determine whether there is a
mortality risk of rectal cancer from drinking water Such a risk
has not been noted for colon cancer Other associated morbidity
will also be studied Four years of incident cases diagnosed
within one year of hospital record in eight parishes (counties) of
residence at diagnosis will be surveyed All area hospitals and
those hospitals receiving referrals from the area will be surveyed
for cases Controls will be matched to cases by age at death, sex,
race, and residence in one of the study parishes Other disease
mortality will be compared to rectal cancer, as well as available
morbidity data Personal interviews will be conducted for cases
and controls on lifetime water source, residence, occupation,
personal habits (including cigarette smoking), diet, and illnesses
Samples from water sources will be analyzed by gas
chromatography and mass spectrometry for possible
contaminants from past industrial or other contaminations A
retrospective incidence study for selected confirmed high and
low risk communities with identifiable water sources will be
designed
89
FY-80
-------
Title:
Developments at the Tenth International Conference on Water Pollution Research
Principal Investigator:
R. S. Engelbrecht
Institution:
United States of
America National
Committee for the
International
Association on
Water Pollution
Research
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year} $39.386
EPA Project Number:
R807269
Summary:
This project provides a report which gives a current
assessment of developments in water pollution research
throughout the world The report is based on information
gathered at the Tenth International Conference on Water
Pollution Research, held at Toronto, Canada, June 23-27, 1980
The Conference brought together research engineers and
scientists, consulting engineers, manufacturers of process
control equipment, administrators of water quality control
programs and others involved in water pollution control.
Approximately 30 of the engineers and scientists attending the
Conference from the USA participated in the preparation of
this report Each participant submitted a summary on
developments at an assigned session of the Conference for
inclusion in the overall report. Both formal and informal
developments are covered, including pertinent comments and
ideas brought out in discussion of presented papers and among
attending researchers. Copies of the report, "Developments at
Tenth International Conference on Water Pollution Research,"
EPA-600/9-81 -008, dated November 1980, are available from
the EPA
FY-80
90
-------
Title:
Effect of Mean Cell Residence Time on the Thickening and Dewatering Characteristics of
Waste Domestic Sludges
Principal Investigator:
W R Knocke
Institution:
Virginia Polytechnic
Institute and
State University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
<2 years) $59,140
EPA Project Number:
R807149
Summary:
The objectives of this study are (1) to determine the effect of
mean cell residence time on the thickening and dewatering rates
of both biological sludges and primary-biological sludge
mixtures; and (2) to evaluate the applicability of utilizing
laboratory-scale treatment units to model full-scale operations
The experiments will involve the monitoring of both a laboratory-
scale biological treatment reactor and a full-scale (15 MGD)
activated sludge treatment plant at several Oc values between 5
and 1 8 days At each Oc value, both plants will be monitored for
overall treatment efficiency, sludge thickening rates, sludge
dewatering rates and solids handling characteristics The major
benefit will be the development of Oc as an operational
parameter which can be utilized by waste treatment plant
operators to optimize their systems both with respect to
treatment efficiency and solids handling
91
FY-80
-------
Title:
Assessment of Impact of Highway Heavy Metals on Roadside Streams
Prin cipal In ves tig a tor:
John J. Ney
Institution:
Virginia Polytechnic
Institute and
State University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $89.436
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808138
Summary:
The objectives of this project include (1) description of
cumulative contamination of water, sediments and biotic
components of roadside stream ecosystems by highway-
generated lead, cadmium, nickel and zinc following inception of
highway usage; (2) analysis of changes in abundance, diversity,
and distribution of aquatic plants and benthic invertebrates
relative to heavy metal contamination, and (3) assessment of
reproduction and distribution of fish populations The approach
incorporates temporal and spatial comparisons of metals
contamination and population parameters Two small softwater
streams near Richmond, Virginia, will be studied over a three-
year period at three sites (1) upstream, (2) at highway contact,
and (3) downstream The study will focus on a new major
highway and will encompass the period prior to highway opening
through two years of operation Since the project was authorized
in October 1980, baseline metals and population data have been
collected It is anticipated that the highway will open for
automobile traffic in the spring of 1981
FY-80
92
-------
Title:
Prostaglandlns as Markers of Promoter—Virus Cell Transformation
Principal Investigator:
Moseley Waite
Institution:
Wake Forest
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $134,162
EPA Project Number:
R807770
Summary:
The purpose of this project is to determine the role of
prostanoids in the two-step virus-(co)carcmogen interaction that
leads to tumongenecity, and to establish whether the production
of prostanoids in this process is obligatory and therefore, a
reasonable marker for (co)carcmogens Newly-developed clonal
lines of HSV-2 transformed tumongenic or nontumongenic rat
embryo fibroblasts will be utilized Experiments will involve
treating the clonal cell lines with single or multiple doses of the
(co)carcmogen phorbol esters The cells will then be analyzed for
alterations in transformation specific (cell morphology, hexose
transport, plasmmogen activator, phospholipid and fatty acid
composition) and tumongenic specific (efficiency of colony
formation in soft agar medium, saturation density and
tumongenicity in newborn adult rat) properties in order to
determine the origin and structure of the prostanoids produced
under these conditions, and the relationship between their
production and the growth characteristics will be studied A
variety of other (co)carcmogens will be tested under conditions
expected to produce tumongenicity These experiments should
assist in understanding a possible two-stage process in
malignant transformation by oncogenic viruses
93
FY-80
-------
Title:
Measurement of Tropical Hydroxyl Concentrations
Principal In vestigator:
Malcolm J Campbell
John C Sheppard
Institution:
Washington State
University
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $104.040
EPA Project Number:
R807741
Summary:
This project proposes to measure the ambient hydroxyl radical
concentration, for periods long enough to secure meaningful
averages, at three clean tropical sites The data, when added to
those collected at two Cambbean sites, should make it possible
to estimate the latitudinal variation of the hydroxyl concentration
in the region where most of the global oxidation of several
longer-lived pollutants occurs This group of pollutants includes
the important chlorine-containing solvents, such as methyl
chloroform, dichloromethane and others under consideration,
which have lifetimes long enough to avoid local ozone
production but whose impact on the stratosphere is presently
difficult to evaluate. The proposed measurements will
complement hydroxyl data being collected at other latitudes and
will be accompanied by concurrent measurements of ozone, NO,,
water vapor and ozone-photolytic sunlight flux so that checks
may be made of the largely unvahdated models currently
dependend upon for prediction of oxidation rates The
experimental approach will be to use a 14C tracer method,
developed by Campbell and Sheppard, which involves measuring
the rate of 14CO + OH — 14C02 + H reaction Because OH is at a
photo-stationary state and the slowness of the conversion of
14CO to 14C02, it is possible to obtain hydroxyl radical
concentration A large UV-transparent Teflon bag (100 I) or a
quartz reactor are used. Because of the very low conversion of
14CO to 14C02, low-level 14C counting systems must be used to
detect the few counts per minute of 14C formed.
FY-80
94
-------
Title:
An Atmospheric Tracer Investigation of Flow Around an Isolated Hill
Principal Investigators:
Brian Lamb
Elmer Robinson
Institution.
Washington State
University
Project Period:
18 months
Budget:
(2 years} $128,900
EPA Project Number:
R807336
Summary:
An investigation related to the transport and dispersion of
pollutants emitted in complex terrain will be conducted by
releasing tracer gases near an isolated hill during periods of
neutral and stable stratification During the tracer experiments,
sulfur hexafluonde (SFe) and bromotnfluoromethane (CBrF3) will
be released simultaneously from two different heights upwind of
the hill Measurements of surface and elevated tracer
concentrations will be combined with meteorological data and
visual analyses of balloon and smoke releases to yield a
comprehensive description of flow around an isolated hill In
particular, the tracer data will be used to quantify the conditions
where a plume impinges upon a hill and passes round it and also
those conditions where a plume passes over the top of a hill The
results of this study will be used to verify results from similar
small-scale fluid modeling experiments The determination of
flow patterns in a relatively simple terrain situation will thus
provide a basis for extrapolating analyses developed in the
laboratory to analyses of flow in complex terrain
95
FY-80
-------
Title:
Dynamics of Polynuclear Hydrocarbons [sic] in an Estuarme Environment Near an Urban
Center
Principal In vestigator:
Foppe B De Wal/e
Institution:
University of
Washington
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $150.385
EPA Project Number:
R808337
Summary:
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) occur widely in
surface waters and sediment and there is widespread concern
regarding the health implication of these potentially carcinogenic
compounds Most PAHs are generated in urban centers from
stationary or mobile combustion processes and are redeposited
on the ground surface During rainstorms and subsequent
runoff, these compounds can enter the surface water and
become associated with the bottom sediments After deposition
m the sediments, the PAHs can be degraded by microorganisms
or can accumulate in the food chain; the extent depends on the
complexity of the ring structures The research goal is to provide
a better quantitative understanding of the PAH pathways in the
estuarme environment near an urban center The specific
objective is to quantify the type of rate of PAH input from various
urban runoff discharges and to determine the degree of
association between PAH and different types of suspended solids
during discharge and after discharge into the estuarme surface
water. The separation of soluble and suspended PAHs will be
accomplished with a \imque depth filtration/resin adsorption
system A similar technique will be used to recover the different
PAHs at various distances away from the shore A vacuum
pumping system will be used to collect sufficient quantities from
the upper and lower portion of the water column Sediment traps
will also be installed at the sampling station to determine
whether the expected decrease of PAHs in the water column
corresponds with a parallel increase of the PAH in the settled
solids. Tests will be conducted both in the winter and summer
when different particulates such as algae and crustaceans are
present in the surface layers as they may influence the amount
of soluble PAHs The subsequent research effort will focus on
the attenuation of the PAHs by bacterial and following mgestion
of sediment particles by benthic organisms. Different types of
sediment samples will be evaluated with time to quantify the
PAH decrease as influenced by clay content, bacteria
concentration and benthic organisms.
FY-80
96
-------
Title:
Ecological Impacts Associated with the Use of Fiberglass Screens for Aquatic Plant
Management
Principal Investigators:
Michael A. Perkins
Donald R Baldwin
Institution:
University of
Washington
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $99.474
EPA Project Number:
R808349
Summary:
The use of fiberglass screens for the control of nuisance
growth of aquatic vascular plants has been shown to be highly
effective The ecological impacts associated with the use of
these screens would appear to be minimal, however, previous
studies have been limited in scope and the extent of ecological
impact is in need of additional examination This current study
addresses both water column and benthic effects using a
combination of laboratory and field investigations The
hypothesized effects relate to (1) the release of inorganic
nutrients and oxygen demanding organics as a result of plant
decomposition beneath screens and (2) direct effects upon
benthic invertebrate communities Organic and inorganic
nutrient release is being tested in laboratory growth chambers
containing Eurasian watermilfoil Impacts upon benthic
invertebrate communities are being evaluated by field
application tests The data generated from these tests should
allow for predictive estimation of effects for screen applications
under a variety of conditions
97
FY-80
-------
Title:
Measurement of Paniculate Nitrogen and Sulfate Compounds
Principal Investigator:
Timothy V. Larson
Institution:
University of
Washington
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years} $98,898
EPA Project Number:
R807569
Summary:
The objective of this project is to develop new techniques for in
situ detection of nitrate and sulfate compounds found in
atmospheric aerosol. To achieve this objective, a sampling
system that can selectively remove HNOa or both HNOa and
paniculate NH4NO3from the aerosol mixture will be designed.
This differential sampling system will be used with a
nephelometer and a chemiluminescent NOX detector in order to
obtain real-time, in situ measurements of NH4NO3 In addition,
combined temperature and humidity controlled nephelometry for
the detection and quantification of H2S04 and its ammonium
salts will be explored These techniques will eliminate several
classical interferences such as nitrate salts found in
conventional humidity controlled nephelometry and will give a
unique signature for compounds ranging from H2S04 to
(NH4)2S04
FY-80
98
-------
Title
Rapid Screening of Chemical Mutagens and In Situ Monitoring Using Tradescantia-
Micronucleus Test
Principal Investigator:
Te-Hsiu Ma
Institution'
Western Illinois
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $96,525
EPA Project Number:
Ft 807497
Summary:
The major objective of this project is to study the effects of a
selected group of chemical agents (including known mutagens,
carcinogens, pesticides, food additives and common drugs) by
using a rapid test system—Tradescantia-Micronucleus bioassay
This will involve exposing the young inflorescences of
Tradescantia plant cuttings to gaseous or liquid forms of
chemicals and then observing the micronucleus frequencies in
tetrads of the meiotic pollen mother cells Additionally, the same
bioassay will be used to carry out in situ monitoring of air at
pollution sites—industrial complexes, parking garages, and truck
and bus stops. The plant cuttings will be carried to these sites
where, after a given duration (6 hours or less), the micronucleus
frequencies in tetrads of the meiotic pollen mother cells will be
observed. Due to the simplicity and high efficiency of this
bioassay, a large number (150) of chemicals and repeated in situ
monitoring (30) can be accomplished with a limited work force
and facility within a relatively short duration of time (3 years)
99
FY-80
-------
Title:
Environmental Asbestos and Mesotheliomas
Principal Investigator:
William A Croft
Institution:
University of
Wisconsin
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $130,991
EPA Project Number:
R808377
Summary:
Mesothehoma, a neoplasm of the abdomen or chest lining, has
been considered a pathological curiosity in domestic animals In
dairy calves, for example, only 16 cases were reported m the 46
years from 1921 to 1967 It is of interest, therefore, that during a
two-year period (1977-78) there were 7 histologically-confirmed
cases reported among 529,077 calves slaughtered at a single
abattoir in northern Wisconsin This high and unexpected
incidence at slaughter has prompted an examination of the
geographical and temporal dimensions of mesothelioma in mid-
Western dairy herds and its possible relationship to
environmental asbestos, the primary etiological agent in the
induction of the human disease Relationships have been
established with abattoirs in Wisconsin and Minnesota to
provide histological confirmation of all neoplasms identified
Cases will be traced back to their farms of origin and the general
farm environment, particularly water supplies, will be examined
for possible sources of asbestos exposure Dairy cattle are
readily available as an m-field experimental system and may
allow an assessment of the utility of bovine cancers in serving as
an index of environmental hazard
FY-80
100
-------
Title:
Predict Reproduction: Toxicants, Pathogens, Climate
Principal Investigator:
Ronald D Hinsdill
Institution:
University of
Wisconsin
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $397,773
EPA Project Number:
R807540
Summary:
The objective of this project is to assemble the following into
an integrated model new heat and mass transfer models for
insulated animals, microclimates, outdoor respiratory water loss,
physiological thermoregulation, and fractional and full factorial
designs This integrated model will be used to predict the
physiological stresses imposed by climate, pathogens, and
toxicants and to assess the consequences for reproductive
capabilities Specific objectives include development of a
quantitative model that will assess the impact of toxicants,
pathogens, and climate on small mammal growth and
reproduction in the lab (short term) and in field (long term),
identification of physiological parameters that can be used to
screen potential toxicants in the laboratory and in the field,
identification of physiological parameters that indicate
synergistic effects of toxicants, pathogens, and climate, and
assessment of mechanisms of action when synergistic effects
are found between toxicants, pathogens, and climate
Peromyscus mamculatus will be exposed to various
environmental toxicants in combination with various types of
pathogenic stress The effect on growth and reproduction will be
noted The model should ultimately provide a more realistic
assessment of the effects of environmental contaminants on
mammalian systems under real life conditions of exposure Work
done so far includes the breeding of colonies, surveying natural
pathogens, completing the computer modeling, and obtaining
data from known immunosuppressants
101
FY-80
-------
Title:
Oxygen Uptake Rates for Activated Sludge Process Control
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Jerry Y C. Huang The proposed research introduces a new method for
expressing the substrate loading rate of an activated sludge
Institution: process The proposed substrate loading rate is Fr/Mr, where
University of both terms are derived from oxygen uptake rate measurements
Wisconsin and are amenable to rapid and continuous measurement. The
research will be conducted initially in a pilot scale activated
Project Period: sludge unit, and subsequently in a full-scale treatment plant.
2 years Detailed tasks include (1) step load increase, plug flow, treating
synthetic wastewater, (2) toxic substance, plug flow, synthetic
Budget: waste, (3) step load increase, complete mix, synthetic waste, (4)
(2 years) $117,285 toxic substance, complete mix, synthetic waste, (5) step load
increase, plug flow, actual waste, (6) toxic substance, plug flow,
EPA Project Number: actual waste, (7) step load increase, complete mix, actual waste;
R 808201 and (8) toxic substance, complete mix, actual waste
FY-80 102
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Title.
Oil and Related Contaminant Effects on Waterfowl Immune Defenses
Principal Investigator:
T. M Yuill
Institution:
University of
Wisconsin
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $124,825
EPA Project Number-
R808367
Summary:
The objective of the project is to assess the effects of crude oil
petroleum distillates and selected chemicals (used to retrieve
spilled oil or treat oil-covered birds) on the resistance of
waterfowl to bacterial or viral infection Also, their immune
responsiveness (both antibody and cell mediated) will be
evaluated The study will have four phases First, assays for
measuring immunosuppression will be developed for mallard
ducks to be used for later assessment of oil and oil-related
pollutants In the second phase, toxicity studies will be
conducted to determine mallard sublethal oral doses of the
various contaminants Mallard infectivity and lethality of an
avian cholera strain to be used in subsequent experiments will
be determined in the third phase Finally, the hypothesis that
ingestion of oil and oil-related contaminants substantially alter
immune responses of waterfowl and host resistance to infection
will be tested Currently, toxicity studies have been conducted for
one crude oil and one fuel oil Studies are underway to
determine sublethal doses of a dispersant and a dispersant oil
combination Progress has been made on developing additional
techniques for measuring immunosuppression Also, several
experiments to determine the infectivity and lethality of avian
cholera for mallard ducks have commenced
103
FY-80
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Institution
Contents
Investigator
Page
Aerospace Corporation L. Robbin Martin, Henry S Judeikis,
Donald E Damschen 1
Alaska, University of Vera Alexander 2
Alaska, University of Jacqueline LaPerriere 3
Arizona, University of Wallace H Fuller 4
Arkansas, University of F Charles Miller
Baylor College of Medicine Edward G. Ezrailson. Allan J Garner 6
Baylor College of Medicine Louis C. Smith 7
Brookhaven National Laboratory James M Vaughn, Edward F. Landry 8
Brown University Stanley Zimmer/ng 9
California Institute of
Technology R Flagan 10
California Institute of
Technology Michael H. Hoffman 11
California State University—
Hayward Stephen C Benson 12
California, University of—Daw's J Over street 13
California, University of—Irvine T. Timothy Crocker, Peter Reischl 14
California, University of—
Los Angeles Roger Detels 15
California, University of—
Los Angeles S. K. Fnedlander 16
California, University of—
Los Angeles Cavour Yeh 17
California, University of—
Richmond David Jenkins 18
California, University of—
Riverside George J. Doyle 19
California, University of—-
San Francisco Michael Karin 20
Charleston, College of Michael B. Maddock 22
Cincinnati, University of Henryka J. Kurzepa 23
Cincinnati, University of David Warshawsky 24
C/arkson College Ralph H. Wetland 25
Cornell University Richard I Dick 26
Drexel University R E Speece, G. F. Parkin 27
Florida, University of , ?rome V Shireman , 28
Georgia Institute of Technology 'ichael J Matteson 29
FY-81
-------
Institution Investigator Page
Georgia Institute of Technology J I. Jagoda 30
Hampton Institute J. Taylor 31
Harvard School of
Public Health David Leith 32
Illinois, University of John J. Hassett 33
Indiana University George A Heise 34
Indiana University James P. Reilly 35
Iowa State University James C. Young 36
Johns Hopkins University David J. P. Bassett 37
Johns Hopkins University Laurence D. Fechter 38
Lawrence Livermore National
Laboratory Ronald H. Jensen 39
Lawrence Livermore National
Laboratory Larry H. Thompson 40
Maine, University of—Orono Jerry D. Lowry, Wi/lem F. Brutsaert 41
Massachusetts Institute of
Technology Mary D. Amdur, John F Elliott 42
Massachusetts Institute of
Technology Alexander M. Klibanov 43
Massachusetts Institute of
Technology Adel F. Sarofim 44
Massachusetts, University of R. Wilce 45
Miami, University of Casimer T Grabowski 46
Michigan State University David T. Long 47
Michigan State University James E. Trosko 48
Michigan, University of K. H. Mancy, M E. Myerhoff,
B Chin, M. Brabec 49
Minnesota, University of Robert Gooddale 50
Missouri, University of—
Columbia Mriganka M Ghosh 51
Montana State University—
Bozeman Sharon Eversman 52
Moss Landing Marine
Laboratories J. Nybakken 53
New Mexico State University G. A. Eiceman 54
New Orleans, University of George G. Guilbault 55
New York University
Medical Center Toby G. Ftossman 56
New York University
Medical Center Lily Y. Young 57
North Carolina, University of—
Chapel Hill R. Boucher 58
FY-81
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Richard M. Kamens, Mark D Sobsey 59
Institution Investigator Page
North Carolina, University of—
Chapel Hill
Oregon Graduate Center for
Study and Research James J Huntzicker 60
Oregon State University James W. Deardorff 67
Pan American University Frank W Judd, Norman L Savage 62
Pennsylvania State University Thomas Warner 63
Pennsylvania State University J-M Bollag 64
Pennsylvania State University Julian Heick/en 65
Purdue University Normand M Laurendeau 66
Sloan-Kettering Institute for
Cancer Research Barbara H. Rosenberg 67
Sloan-Kettering Institute for
Cancer Research Gerhard Stohrer, Tsanyen Yang 68
SRI International Richard Kenley 69
Stanford University Paul V Roberts 70
State University of
New York—Albany Raymond G. Stross 77
State University of
New York—Binghamton Gilbert E, Janauer 73
Syracuse Research Corporation Sujit Baner/ee 74
Syracuse Research Corporation Richard H Sugatt 75
Tennessee, University of G. S. Sayler, R Pagni, R Bryant 76
Texas, University of. Health
Science Center at Houston Alfonso H Ho/gum 77
Texas, University of. Systems
Cancer Center T C Hsu 79
Virginia Commonwealth
University Michael Weinste/n 80
Virginia, Medical College of S. F. Cleary 81
Virginia, University of R. Pie/ke 82
Washington State University Brian Lamb, Elmer Robinson 83
Washington State University Elmer Robinson 84
Washington, University of John F Ferguson, Mark M. Benjamin 85
Washington University—
School of Medicine H Mitchell Perry, Jr 86
West Virginia University Eung Ha Cho 87
Wisconsin, University of—
Madison John H Andrews 88
Wisconsin, University of—
Madison P M. Berthouex, W. G. Hunter 89
Wisconsin, University of—
Mad/son Marty Kanarek 90
W/star Institute Leila Diamond 97
in FY-81
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Title:
Atmospheric Aerosol Chemistry of Sulfur and Nitrogen Oxides
Principal Investigators:
L Robbin Martin,
Henry S Judeikis,
DonaldE Damschen
Institution •
Aerospace
Corporation
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years] $169.150
EPA Project Number:
R808585
Air pollution by sulfur and nitrogen oxides is a major problem
for society, since it is both costly to control and costly to ignore
Public awareness is growing about the problems attendant to
this pollution, namely atmospheric aerosols and acid rain. There
is considerable urgency about finding cost effective ways to
control these problems
Limiting the emissions of sulfur dioxide has been only
sporadically effective in controllilng the sulfate and acidity levels
This may be due in part to changes in emission modes, but also
seems to be due to our limited knowledge of the atmospheric
chemistry that converts S02 to sulfate Only three years ago, it
was not possible to account for the rapidity of formation of
sulfunc acid from S02 emission, nor was it possible to
understand the poor correlation between S02 and sulfate levels
in the atmosphere.
As a result of recent development in our understanding of the
atmospheric chemistry, it is now possible to point to processes
that can account for the rapid oxidation of S02 These are
oxidation by OH radicals in the gas phase, and oxidation by H202
or ozone in the liquid phase of aerosols Our preliminary
calculations show that the hydrogen peroxide process can easily
be the fastest route if any significant amount of aerosol is
present Understanding the correlation problem will require
more kinetic data
Another recent change has been the recognition that nitric
acid is a significant contributor to the acidity of rain, particularly
in the West. Nitric acid derived from NO, pollution also accounts
for much of the increased acidity in areas of the East in the last
few years. Therefore, the chemistry of this new source of acidity
needs to be understood as well,
A study will be made of hydrogen peroxide - SOz reaction and
key NOX reactions in the kind of detail that will be necessary to
predict quantitatively the atmospheric oxidation rate of SO2
under a variety of meteorological conditions.
The objective of the experimental work is to take the two
leading candidates for significant aerosol oxidation pathways,
namely oxidation catalyzed by solid particles suspended in water
and hydrogen peroxide oxidation, and see how they affect the
whole nitrogen oxide - sulfur oxide system We will also look at
reactions between oxidants (H202+NO2~, etc ) and reactions
between organics (including amines) and nitrite ion and
hydrogen peroxide.
Such reactions will be important in determining the steady
state concentrations of the oxidants, and also in the possible
formation of toxic products. We will include a temperature
dependence study for hydrogen peroxide/sulfur dioxide because
of its unique significance in sulfate formation in clouds.
The following systems will be examined-
(D
NOx, H202
SO2; suspended particle catalysis O2, 03,
oxidants; temperature and pH.
(2) S02, metal ion and organic catalysts; H2O2 oxidants;
temperature and pH.
(3) NO,, suspended particle catalysis, 02, 02, H202 oxidants; pH.
(4) N0«; metal ion and organic catalysts; 02, 03, H2O2 oxidants;pH
(5) Amine and other organic reactants, metal ion and particle
catalysts; NOX, H202 oxidants
The technique will be fast aqueous kinetics in a stopped-flow
apparatus equipped with UV absorption diagnostics.
1
FY-81
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Title:
Evaluation of Crude Oil Spills on Northern Stream Invertebrate and Penphyton Communities
Principal In vestigator:
Vera Alexander
Institution:
University of Alaska
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $209.367
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808779
The primary goal of the research is to develop a functional
understanding of the response of arctic stream systems to crude
oil spills. Specifically, the objectives are:
(1) to examine the response of the invertebrate community to a
controlled spill;
(2) to quantify the rate at which oil-soaked rocks and sand/silt
are recolomzed after exposure to crude oil,
(3) to compare toxicity and behavior modification (drift) of
invertebrates in an under-ice and in a summer spill,
(4) to contrast the response of an arctic (North Slope of the
Brooks Range) to subarctic stream to oil and to compare
their recovery, and
(5) to compare the changes in distribution of fish pre- and post-
spill
Experimental oil spills are to be carried out in a tundra and
taiga stream just after the stream surface has become covered
with continuous ice. The tundra stream selected is a branch of
the Toohk River in the foothills of the Brooks Range (68° 15'N,
149° 21'W) The taiga stream is a channel of Poker-Caribou
Creek, 31 miles north of Fairbanks, in the foothills of the White
Mountains (65° 15'N, 147° 21'W) Before, during and after each
spill, invertebrate drift is monitored, and after five days Hess
bottom samples are taken in and above the oil spill area Rock
baskets are placed in oiled and unoiled zones of the stream in
order to examine colonization after spring break-up Penphyton
biomass and productivity are measured before and after the spill
Experiments in the laboratory are to examine the toxicity of
crude oil trapped under ice in comparison to its toxicity in open
water to invertebrates
Following break-up in the Spring, overwintering success in
oiled sections and on oiled rock baskets will be examined
Overwinter oil loss from artificial substrates will be determined
In the Autumn of 1 982 post-recruitment sampling for the status
of recovery one year after the spill will be carried out Attached
algal biomass and distribution will be examined, as will the use
of stream sections by fish Following the sorting and
identification of collected invertebrate and algal samples, the
data will be analyzed, compiled and reported.
FY-8i
-------
Title:
An Ecosystem Approach to the Effects of Placer Mining on Streams of Interior Alaska
Principal In vestigator.
Jacqueline
LaPernere
Institution:
University of Alaska
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $214,336
EPA Project Number:
R808340
Placer gold deposits lie within gravels near bedrock where
they occur Mining for these deposits entails removal of
overburden, and separation of the gold from the other minerals
Water, under high pressure, is sometimes used to strip
overburden, and to thaw any ice it contains in permafrost
regions, in an operation called hydraulicking Water is also used
in the separation process called sluicing The water used in
placer mining often comes from and is discharged into nearby
streams
Even when sedimentation ponds are used to treat the effluent
from placer mining operations, there is a potential for the
addition of sediments in amounts or at times that are not
natural. This is especially true where the soils or gravels contain
clays, or when sedimentation ponds fail due to flooding, short-
circuitmg, or breaching of their walls
The effects of additional sediments from placer mining on the
hydrology, sediment carrying capacity, and organisms of the
aquatic ecosystem of streams are not well known This project
will investigate the effects of sediment and bedload-transport on
penphyton, on benthic macromvertebrates, and on resident
fishes
Because this industry is governed by the Alaska Water Quality
Standards for turbidity, total dissolved solids, and sediment, this
project relates measured effects on communities or populations
in the aquatic ecosystem to specific thresholds for these factors.
FY-81
-------
Title:
A Solute Model for Predicting Transport of Metals from Industrial Solid Wastes Through Soils
Principal In vestigator:
Wallace H. Fuller
Institution:
University of Arizona
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
12 year si $162.691
EPA Project Number:
K 807915
Since the land is considered as the ultimate receptacle for
industrial wastes the ability to predict attenuation of pollutants
in soil becomes one of the main goals in waste control
operations Before predictive designs for disposal of pollutant-
containing industrial waste streams can be established, a
multitude of disposal components must be identified and
evaluated The three most critical components of the intimate
disposal environment affecting transport of a pollutant from its
point of origin are: (a) the transport system or fluid carrying the
pollutant (leachate and/or solvent); (b) the porous medium
through which the constituents move (soil, soil material), and (c)
the potential pollutant(s) itself No two pollutants migrate
identically to the same set of soil characteristics of transport
fluid properties.
The objective of this research is to quantitatively measure the
effects of soil and transport fluid properties on rate of movement
of selected metals and certain organic pollutants to aid in the
development of a solute model for predicting the transport of
pollutants from industrial and commercial wastes through soils.
The effects of the waste stream transport systems such as (a)
dilute aqueous fluids, (b) strong acids, (c) strong bases, (d) polar
organic solvents, and (e) non-polar organic solvents on soil
properties influencing fluid flux and soil attenuation of pollutants
are being researched A solute model is being developed that will
describe the metal transport phenomena discovered in the above
research.
The effects of 2/V acetic, hydrochloric, phosphoric, and sulfunc
acids and two sulfunc waste streams (industrial) containing toxic
metals on fluid flow through soils are being studied. Data
collections on soil failure are being examined and plotted by
comparing chemical characterizations of soil column effluents
with influents
The permeability of eight soils to organic solvents and water
was investigated Saturated hydraulic conductivity and intrinsic
permeabilities were evaluated The solvents were kerosme,
isopropyl alcohol, ethylene glycol, xylene, and water Two
hundred and eleven column tests were made to evaluate
differences between intrinsic permeability for the different soils
and solvents A multiple regression analysis provided a
predictive model for intrinsic permeability as a function of soil
properties with an R2-value of 0 81. Moisture retention curves
were determined using a pressure retention procedure for three
soils and two solvent combinations—water and kerosine.
Kerosme results do not follow a general pattern, demonstrating
changes in procedure will sometimes become necessary when
working with organic solvents in soils.
FY-81
-------
Title:
Quantitative Measurement of Deposition of Diesel Exhaust Particulates in the Human
Respiratory Tract
Principal Investigator:
F Charles Hitler
Institution:
University of
Arkansas
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $189,710
EPA Project Number:
R809098
Many atmospheric aerosol participates and also particulates in
the working place are in the size range of less than 01m There
is much theoretical information based on mathematical models
of the lungs, suggesting that deposition fraction of particulates
less than 0.1 mm the human respiratory tract is quite high.
Experimental studies verifying the deposition of such
particulates are few
Most studies describing the deposition fraction of inhaled
aerosols are concerned primarily with particles in the 0.1-10.0 m
size range Although the mass of particles less than 0.1 m
diameter is quite low, their ubiquitous presence, their predicted
high deposition fraction, and their potential for acting as
condensation nuclei or carriers for toxic gases could make them
important in human disease
One example of such a paniculate is the paniculate fraction of
diesel exhaust. These particles are mainly less than 01m and
carry some carcinogens Particles in the 0 1 m size range are
most difficult to generate and measure. For this reason,
experimental studies to characterize deposition fractions in the
lung are few. There is need, therefore, for experimental data to
confirm or disprove the high deposition of such small
particulates.
The purpose of this work is to generate a well-characterized
aerosol in the 0.0-0.1 m size range and to measure the
deposition fraction of that aerosol in the human respiratory tract.
FY-31
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Title:
Muscle Protein Metabolism After Insecticide Exposure
Principal Investigators:
Edward G. Ezrailson,
Allan J Gather
Institution:
Baylor College of
Medicine
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $140,936
EPA Project Number:
R809164
Humans are exposed chronically to varying levels of insecticide
as the result of vastly different circumstances and conditions The
greatest degree of exposure is occupationally related In the
manufacture, distribution and harvesting of agricultural products,
acute and chronic insecticide exposure may have a direct
relationship to the health and safety of the participating worker
and those in the immediate environment Safe levels for acute
(LD50) and chronic (90LD50) exposure skeletal muscle contains a
metabohcally active pool of protein which is in a continual state of
turnover, although rates of synthesis and degradation may vary
greatly for individual muscle proteins
Regulation of muscle protein degradation and the subsequent
ammo acid release is in part under the control of the autonomic
nervous system Adrenergic agonists inhibit and cholmergic
agonists stimulate protein degradation and the resultant release of
ammo acids from muscle Thus, inhibition of acetyl cholmesterase
both on an acute as well as a chronic basis may be expected to
have profound effects on skeletal muscle protein degradation and
homeostasis
This research will examine the effects of acute and chronic
exposure to two model insecticides which have cholmesterase
inhibition activity, namely malathion and parathion. Effects of
these agents on muscle protein, ammo acid and cyclic nucleotide
metabolism will be demonstrated The results expected from this
project may be extrapolated to chronic but sublethal clinical
problems observed in people exposed to insecticides on an acute
and chronic basis, particularly chemical workers, crop dusters,
farmers and agricultural workers
FY-81
-------
Title:
Transfer of Xenobiotics in Blood to Cells
Principal Investigator:
Louis C. Smith
institution:
Bay/or College of
Medicine
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $216,958
EPA Project Number:
R808773
The general objective is to determine if polynuclear aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAH) entry into cells is controlled by
thermodynamics or by the kinetics of hpoprotem modification or by
endocytosis Specific objectives are to define principal
mechanisms of cellular uptake of carcinogens in plasma
lipoproteins There may be (a) passive transfer of PAH from plasma
lipoprotems to cultured endothelial cells, (b) hpoprotem hpase
dependent transfer of PAH in triglyceride-nch lipoproteins to
endothelial cells, and (c) cellular uptake of lipoproteins containing
PAH
The experimental methods are based primarily on fluorescence
techniques The concentration dependent fluorescence of pyrene
and benzo(a)pyrene allows rapid and continuous determination of
changes in PAH mass, as the result of transfer from one
membrane to another, without the need to isolate physically
reactants and products. Changes in the quenching of the
fluorescence of non-transferable carbazol-containing compounds
by the polyhalogenated compounds as the PCB are transferred will
allow assessment of the kinetics and distribution of the PCB in
these systems. The highly sensitive video intensification
microscopy will permit direct studies of PAH transfer from plasma
lipoproteins to cell membranes and of intracellular PAH transfer
from endocytotic vesicles.
The initial step of chemical carcinogenesis is delivery of the
carcinogen to the target tissue. In plasma, non-polar substances
such as PAH are confined to plasma lipoproteins. Transport of PAH
has a regulatory role as a rate determining step. Evaluation of the
mechanism of transfer, of the rates of competitive processes, and
the thermodynamics of PAH distribution is necessary to
understand the relationship of carcinogenesis and lipid
metabolism
FY-81
-------
Title:
Mechanisms of Human Rotavirus Inactivation by Water Disinfectants
Principal Investigators:
James M. Vaughn,
Edward F Landry
Institution:
Brookhaven National
Laboratory
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $221.432
EPA Project Number:
809489
The primary objective of the proposed research will be the
elucidation of the specific mechanisms of human and animal
rotavirus Inactivation which result from the use of chemicals
commonly employed for the disinfection of potable water supplies.
A secondary consideration will involve a comparison of the relative
effectiveness of a variety of compounds (e.g , Os, Clz, ClOs) in the
inactivation of rotaviruses
The proposed research represents the first known scientific
investigation of the effectiveness and modes (i.e., specific sites) of
rotavirus inactivation by drinking water disinfectants. Data
resulting from the study should provide regulatory agencies with
an adequate data base with which to assess the reliability of
current, or proposed methods for the control of rotavirus species in
drinking water. In addition, comparative studies will provide
rotavirus inactivation data which is needed for the identification of
viable alternatives to the use of chlorine as a water disinfectant.
The objectives of the study will be pursued in the form of
specific research goals (presented here with appropriate methods)
(1) A determination of disinfectant thresholds and rates of
inactivation of culturable animal rotaviruses (Neonatal Calf
Diarrhea Virus [NCDV], Simiam Rotavirus [SA-11]). Viruses
will be exposed to various disinfectant concentrations at
several pH and temperature levels. Resulting viability data
will be analyzed to determine the kinetics of inactivation
Survival rates in various disinfectants will be compared.
(2) A determination of whether gross morphological changes
occur on rotavirus particles following disinfectant treatment.
Experiments will involve treatments of both human and
animal rotaviruses. Analyses will include examination by
electron microscopy, as well as determination of particle
density via sedimentation velocity measurements of
radiolabeled virus
(3) A determination of the specific site(s) of inactivation on
culturable rotavirus as caused by selected disinfectants. Test
organisms will include animal (NCDV, SA-11) as well as
human rotavirus species (type 2, Wa strain). Investigations
will focus on alterations of radiolabeled viral coat proteins
(inner and outer capsids) as well as changes produced on
labeled segmented RNA Effects on both will be measured by
comparison to untreated controls via polyacrylamide gel
electrophoresis. collowmg initial studies with culturable
viruses, similar experiments will focus on non-culturable
human rotaviruses isolated from clinical samples.
(4) An assessment of the relative effectiveness of various
disinfectants for the inactivation of rotaviruses based upon
the results of the above experimental procedures Analyses of
the above data will also provide insight concerning the
reliability of animal rotavirus or surrogates for human
rotavirus in disinfections studies.
FY-81
-------
Title:
Test of a Highly Sensitive Drosophila Assay for Chemical Induced Chromosome Breakage
Principal Investigator:
Stanley Zimmenng
Institution:
Brown University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $182,646
EPA Project Number:
R808648
Drosophila is the most rapid and efficient in vivo complex
eukaryote short-term test system for the detection of genetic
alterations induced in germ cells by chemical agents It
possesses an efficient microsomal activating system and detects
genetic damage of relevance to humans including gene
mutations and chromosome breakage; the test for sex-linked
recessive lethals assays for gene mutation and tests for
chromosome loss and/or heritable translocations for
chromosome breakage Consistent with findings in many other
test systems monitoring for two (or more) genetic endpomts, the
sensitivity of the detection capacity of Drosophila tests for gene
mutation and chromosome breakage is not the same With the
exception of a few compounds, chromosome breakage effects
require substantially higher concentrations for detection than
recessive lethals or fail detection entirely even at concentrations
producing high frequencies of recessive lethals.
Zimmenng and co-workers recently reported results from a
test for chromosome loss with radically improved sensitivity,
achieved by substituting the ordinary repair-proficient PI females
with females homozygous for the repair deficient strain st
mus302.
The st mus302 test for chromosome loss has been evaluated
thus far with four compounds: methyl methanesulfonate (MMS);
dimethylmtrosamme (DMN), diethylnitrosamme (DEN), and
procarbazme Compared with ordinary females (1) st mus302
females yield significantly higher frequencies of induced
chromosome loss with MMS and DMN producing a positive
effect at a concentration one order of magnitude below that
producing no effect with ordinary females; and (2) more critically,
detects chromosome breakage activity with DEN and
procarbazme, compounds proved negative in tests with ordinary
females at all concentrations
The principal objectives of the proposed research are'
(1) to extend the st mus302 test for chromosome loss to cover
a large number of compounds in diverse chemical groups,
comparing its sensitivity relative to the conventional test for
chromosome loss, and its sensitivity and overall technical
facility relative to the test for heritable translocations in
order to determine its suitability as a replacement for these
procedures, in use now for some 20 years, as a primary
screen for chemical induced chromosome breakage in germ
cells of Drosophila, and
(2) to carry out experiments to provide the basis for an
assessment of the proposal by Sobels and co-workers that
the relative msensitivity of breakage tests in Drosophila is
attributable to the largely ineffective ability of chemical
mutagens to induce chromosome breakage relative to
recessive lethals, data thus far with st mus302 suggesting
the alternative view, that relative insensitivity may be less
related to induct/on than detection capability of the test
system
Finally, demonstration that the st mus302 test for
chromosome loss is no less sensitive than the heritable
transiocation test, the latter requiring an F2 and often an F3
generation for completion would imply that it be possible to
screen a considerably greater number of compounds/time and
result in \ ery substantial savings in government sponsored
mutagep(':ity testing programs
9 FY-81
-------
Title:
Submicron Aerosol Classification Using High Velocity, Low Pressure Impactors
Principal Investigator:
R Flagan
Institution:
California Institute
of Technology
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years/$107.422
EPA Project Number:
Ft 809 J 91
The primary objective of this proposal is to study the influence
of gas compressibility and Mach number on the performance of
aerosol impactors The first phase of the work will involve
theoretical and experimental studies of gas flow and particle
impaction in a single stage impactor operating over a wide range
of Mach numbers and particle Knudsen numbers The gas flow
in the impactor will be calculated theoretically in the subsonic
and transonic regimes using the Lax-Wendroff and other
appropriate techniques The particle trajectories will then be
determined, from which the critical Stokes number for particle
impaction and the influence of Mach, Knudsen numbers, etc , on
the critical Stokes number will be determined For the
experimental investigation, a model single stage impactor will be
constructed, and the flow field within the impactor studied by
flow-visualization (shadowgraph, Schheren, etc ) Particle
impaction studied will be made by means of monodisperse
aerosol generated by the Berglund-Liu monodisperse aerosol
generator and the TSI electrostatic classifier using fluorescent or
optically absorbing particles.
In addition to the primary research objective indicated above,
the study will involve the use of fiber collection surfaces for the
impactor and the determination of the effect of fiber collection
surface on the impactor characteristics Also to be investigated
are the jet-cone impactor concept developed by Schott and Ranz,
and the effect of vapor condensation on impactor operation
Finally, an impactor will be designed, constructed and tested for
particle collection from high temperature gas streams
FY-81
10
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Title-
A Kinetic Study ofthe Catalytic Autoxidation ofAquatic Pollutants by Hybrid Metal Complexes
Principal Investigator:
Michael R Hoffman
Institution:
California Institute of
Technology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $207,047
EPA Project Number:
R809198
The kinetics and mechanisms of the oxidation of selected
hazardous pollutants by molecular oxygen catalyzed by
homogeneous and heterogeneous complexes of cobalt(ll) with
sulfonated porphynn, phthalocyanme and polyamme ligands
have been investigated. Modified homogeneous catalysts and
solid supported analogs have been synthesized and their ability
to activate dioxygen with concomitant oxidation of selected
reduced sulfur, substituted kinetically Hybrid catalytic systems
were developed by chemically and physically linking effective
Co(ll) complexes to the following inert surfaces polystyrene,
silica gel, glassy activated carbon, polyacrylamide and zeolite
The catalytic reaction rates, reaction stoichiometnes and rate
laws were established for both homogeneous and
heterogeneous systems in batch and continuous flow reactor
systems Experimental techniques employed in kinetic studies
included conventional UV-VIS spectrophotometry, specific ion
potentiometry, ion chromatography, high performance liquid
chromatography, gas/liquid chromatography, stopped-
flow/temperature jump relaxation kinetics. Electron Spin
Resonance, Fourier Transform IR spectroscopy, and Resonance
Raman spectroscopy were used to determine the modes of
dioxygen activation and the relative contribution of radical
enzyme-like and polar reaction pathways to the overall aqueous
phase oxidation rates of reduced sulfur compounds such as
hydrogen sulfide, sulfur dioxide, mercaptans and substituted
monosulfides, and substituted aromatic compounds such as 3,4-
dihydroxybenzoic acid, 1,2,4-tnmethylbenzene and
benzaldehyde.
Catalytic activity was determined to be a function of primary
liquid and solid phase properties such as pH, temperature, ionic
strength, surface area, porosity, degree of cross-linking and the
nature of the substrate Factors affecting the catalyst specificity,
lifetime, and modes of mactivation were established. Suitable
kinetic and mechanistic models will be discussed. This work is
expected to have application in the development of hybrid
catalytic systems which may provide convenient and economical
methods for industrial wastewater treatment in which the
control of oxidizable, hazardous chemicals and refractory
organics is desirable
11
FY-81
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Title:
Development of a Valid In Vitro Assay for Fibrogenesis Using Cultured Pulmonary
Macrophages and Fibroblasts
Principal In vestigator:
Stephen C. Benson
Institution:
California State
University-Hay ward
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(1 year) $104,987
EPA Project Number:
R808910
Mammalian lung tissue exposed to air pollutant particles and
noxious gases undergoes a variety of responses including
fibrosis Most notably this results in increased fibroblast
proliferation and collagen synthesis. At present the fibrotic
potential of participate and gaseous material is determined by
time consuming in vivo fibrogenesis studies. It would be
extremely useful to have a reliable in vitro model that could be
rapidly applied to assess the fibrogenicity of small amounts of
material collected from ambient air samples or from combustion
processes. The problem with performing extensive tests using in
vitro model experiments is that the gap between the in vivo
effect and the in vitro model has not been bridged adequately In
vitro effects are often found to be artifacts and do not express
true mechanisms which operated in vivo.
This study will induce in vivo fibrogenesis with silica and
asbestos and simultaneously carry out in vitro studies using
cultured alveolar macrophages from the challenged animals.
Recently, it has been reported that damaged alveolar
macrophages release a fibrosis-stimulating factor (FSF). A
reasonable hypothesis is that in vivo silica and asbestos-induced
injury to alveolar macrophages cause the release of FSF which
triggers the increased proliferation of lung fibroblasts and
increased collagen synthesis in these cells The experimental
protocol of this proposal will test the hypothesis that an in vitro
fibrogenic system can accurately mimic the in vivo situation and
that a totally in vitro assay system is feasible
The successful development of a reliable in vitro system to
assess the fibrogenic potential of environmental pollutants could
potentially obviate the need for large scale long-term animal
studies and still provide just as meaningful information In
addition, the diversity in biochemical and morphological
responses to asbestos and silica would suggest that these two
agents may induce fibrogenesis by different mechanisms.
Nevertheless, there is extensive evidence to suggest that
macrophages may be directly involved in the fibrogenic
response. The proposed research will establish the in vivo and in
vitro relationship between exposure to these agents and the
fibrogenic response which ensues. This study will test a
reasonable hypothesis regarding how fibrogenesis is induced via
biochemical and structural damage to the macrophage, releasing
FSF. This information will be vital in establishing a reliable in
vitro model for fibrogenesis.
FY-81
12
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Title:
Methods for Assessing the Impact of Environmental Chemicals on Human Fertility
Principal Investigator-
J Overstreet
Institution:
University of
California-Davis
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
12 years) $267,565
EPA Project Number:
R809089
The purpose of this project is to develop sensitive tests for
early detection of reproductive toxicity in men and women
Changes in sperm morphology may reflect acute stress to the
testes. Morphometric measurements have been made on
spermatozoa from 30 fertile men and 30 infertile men. From
analysis of these data we have concluded that the degree of
abnormality in sperm morphology can be objectively recorded by
calculating the ratio of head length to head width and the
standard deviation for this parameter A semi-automatic,
computer-assisted methodology has been developed to facilitate
these measurements Studies are in progress to establish a
"normal range" for this parameter The method is now useful for
comparison of exposed and control populations
For tests on living sperm, methods have been developed for
transportation of semen from the field to specialized research
laboratories Semen samples from 10 fertile men and 17 infertile
men were diluted with an egg yolk extender and stored at 4°C
for 48 hours (a temperature and time interval which are feasible
for commercially available transportation services). The sperm
motility and fertility (as assessed by penetration of zona-free
hamster eggs) were preserved in normal and abnormal semen
Tests of female reproductive toxicity involve detection of early
pregnancy and prediction of spontaneous abortion We have
assayed hCG in daily urine samples from more than 100 women
during 250 cycles of therapeutic artificial insemination Fifty of
these women conceived pregnancies, afl of which were
monitored with serial urines during the first trimester Nine
women had spontaneous abortions while in the study Among
the women with no clinical signs of pregnancy a small sub-group
had pen-implantation spontaneous abortion (occult pregnancy).
The results obtained so far suggest that the incidence of occult
pregnancy in normal women may be quite low. The methods we
are developing could therefore be useful in surveillance of non-
contracepting women who are exposed to potential
environmental hazards We are currently evaluating the
possibility of measuring urinary steroid conjugates as an adjunct
in detecting early pregnancy wastage
13
FY-81
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Title:
Inhalation Toxicology of Formaldehyde-Containing Air Pollutants
Principal Investigators:
T Timothy Crocker,
Peter Reischl
Institution:
University of
California-Irvine
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years! $378,873
EPA Project Number:
R808267
This project will evaluate short-term toxic and irritant effects
of combined photochemical pollutants including formaldehyde,
participates and ozone by exposure of rats and dogs during
exercise
The study has the following elements
(1) Atmospheres The proposed list of atmospheres for study
may be modified by relevant new findings seen in the
course of study
a Formaldehyde alone at 0 1 to 5 0 ppm
b Formaldehyde plus ammonium sulfate aerosol at 1 -4
mg/m3, equilibrated for gas to particle absorption
c Ozone alone at 0 2 to 0 8 ppm
d Ozone combined with ammonium sulfate aerosol within
the above concentration ranges
e Formaldehyde plus ozone plus ammonium sulfate at
physical equilibrium with respect to gas absorption in
particles
f, Relative humidity, selected on the basis of biologic
endpomt within the range of 40% to 90%
g Exposure times rats 4 hours per day for up to 5 days,
dogs 2-4 hours per day for 1, 2, or 3 days
(2) Exercise Rats trained to 0.4 m p.h , at level grade, dogs
trained to 3 m p.h. at level and 15% grade
(3) Histopathology, quantitative morphometry and indicators of
cell turnover for nasal and tracheobronchial epitheha in
rats
(4) Pulmonary function and related measurements in dogs
a Lung dynamics- rate, tidal volume, FRC, airway
resistance and compliance, arterial-alveolar oxygen and
COa gradients
b Metabolic measurements oxygen consumption and COa
production
c Breathing pattern with analysis of duration of inspiratory
and expiratory phases, pause between phases, air flow
rates throughout each phase, and expiratory flow rates at
25% and 50% of tidal volume
(5) Clearance of insoluble radiolabeled tracer particles from
lungs of rats short-term (mucociliary phase), 0-2 days,
long-term (macrophage transport phase), 2-14 days
Hypotheses to be Tested
(1) Do atmospheres of formaldehyde, formaldehyde combined
with sulfate aerosol or formaldehyde plus aerosol plus
ozone at concentrations found to be irritant in short-term
tests cause histopathologic and functional changes
compatible with the potential for producing chronic
respiratory tract disease?
(2) What is the quantitative relationship between exercise-
enhanced ventilation and the pathogenetic potential of the
above single or combined gas-particle atmospheres'
(3) Is the effect of exercise explained solely by the increased
minute ventilation or do other as yet unidentified factors
play a significant role?
FY-81
14
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Title:
Cohort Studies of Health Effects of Chronic Exposure to Oxidants and Other Pollutants in Los
Angeles
Principal Investigator'
Roger Detels
Institution:
University of
California-
Los Angeles
Project Period.
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $228,652
EPA Project Number.
R808620
This research will continue ongoing studies of the relationship
between long-term exposure to air pollutants and the results of a
respiratory questionnaire, spirometry, single-breath nitrogen
testing and plethysmography in 1 5,1 64 residents of four
communities in Los Angeles The study sites include areas
exposed to (1) low levels of all pollutants (Lancaster), (2)
moderate levels of photochemical oxidants and other secondary
pollutants (Burbank), (3) high levels of photochemical oxidants,
NC>2 and sulfates (Glendora), and (4) high levels of S02
particulates and other primary pollutants (Long Beach)
Comparison of lung function test results from the baseline
studies suggest that participants in the polluted areas,
particularly those exposed to high levels of photochemical
oxidants, N02 and sulfates had poorer respiratory function
Retesting of participants in the two less polluted areas to detect
changes in lung function over the last five years has been
completed
This research project will complete retestmg of participants in
the two remaining areas (exposed to high levels of primary and
secondary pollutants), to compare changes in lung function of
those in the previously completed areas, and to correlate these
with pollutant exposures occurring in the four areas
15
FY-81
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Title:
Development and Calibration of the Low Pressure Impactor for High Mass Loading and High
Altitude Measurements
Principal Investigator:
S K Fnedlander
Institution.
University of
Ca//form a -
Los Angeles
Project Period.
18 months
Budget:
(18 months) $59.790
EPA Project Number:
R808786
Cascade impactors are commonly used for size segregation of
aerosols for subsequent chemical or elemental analysis
Although a well-established technique, experimental difficulties
still exist for the collection of solid or "bouncy" particles
Currently, greased coatings are used on the collection surfaces
to prevent particle bounce and reentramment However, the
coatings become ineffective as the aerosol deposit builds on the
collection stage Laboratory studies have shown that the
collection efficiency of a greased impaction surface decreases
exponentially with particle loading The particle bounce problem
reappears as the greased surface becomes coated with the
aerosol
This effect is particularly acute for impactors with small cutoff
diameters since the mass of very small particles equivalent to
the monolayer coating on the stage is less due to the large
specific surface area A low pressure impactor developed in this
laboratory segregates particles in the size range from 0 05 to 4
m aerodynamic diameter It has been successfully used for
aerosol sulfur analysis However, the aerosol coating on the
sticky surface severely limits the mass of sample which can be
collected Currently, the instrument cannot be used for reliable
distributions of the minor constituents of the aerosol Submicron
elemental size distributions of these trace species would be
valuable both for source resolution studies and for
understanding the mechanisms of pollutant formation
The objective of this research project is to develop an
impaction surface which (1) has a high collection efficiency for
solid (bouncy) particles independent of mass loading and which
(2) is suitable for elemental analysis Specific application will be
to the low pressure impactor but the results will be applicable to
other samplers The work will include the recalibration of the
impactor with the newly developed impaction surface and
recalibration at reduced inlet pressures for high altitude
sampling
FY-81
16
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Title
Scattering by Curved Phase-Front Beam (An In-Situ Scheme to Detect Fine Pollutants)
Principal Investigator.
Cavour Yeh
Institution.
University of
Calilornia-
Los Angeles
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
fl year} $64,140
EPA Project Number:
Ft 809099
Health hazards caused by the presence of asbestos particles in
the atmosphere or in water are well recognized However, it is
not a simple feat to detect and identify such asbestos particles,
especially when these particles are of submicron sizes One way
is to make use of the distinguishing light scattering
characteristics of a needle-shaped asbestos particle to separate
it from other harmless roundish particles The usual optical
scattering technique may be used to obtain substantial amounts
of information when the scattering objects are known to be
nearly identical (monodisperse) and spherically symmetric But
asbestos particles in the atmosphere are neither spherical (they
are needle-shaped) nor monodisperse (there are other kinds of
particles m the atmosphere) Hence, it is essential that in some
way the scattering must originate from a single isolated particle
at a time A brute force method for accomplishing this isolation
involves electrostatically supporting an individual particle while
it is illuminated by a laser beam Another method is to force
suspended particles to flow through a micron-size tube which is
illuminated transversely by a laser beam The resulting flashes of
light provide information in individual particles However, in
these schemes the environment of the scatterer is somewhat
artificial This fact may be of great consequence when one
wishes to obtain more precise information on pollutants, since
the mere fact of isolation or being forced to flow through intra-
small passageway is likely to alter the properties of the different
species in a polydisperse medium A new nondestructive scheme
should be found.
The purpose of this research is to study a new nondestructive
diagnostic technique based on the concept of light scattering by
a strongly focused laser beam, to identify submicroscopic
particles Initial experiment shows that it is possible to study the
scattering characteristics of an individual submicron particle in
surroundings approaching its natural environment and in a
polydisperse medium When perfected, this scheme may provide
a simple and economical means of measuring the in situ
concentration and sizes of different species of particles To reach
this goal a two-year program is being undertaken The program
consists of two major tasks
(1) To obtain scattering signatures of three general types of
particles (roundish, long-skinny and disk-like particles) in
strongly focused beams, and
(2) To construct an apparatus to measure the scattering
characteristics of different particles in a strongly focused
beam
17
FY-81
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Title.
The Interrelated Effects of Organic Loading, Dissolved Oxygen Concentration and Aeration
Basin Configuration on Activated Sludge Sett/ing Characteristics
Principal Investigator'
David Jenkins
Institution •
University of
California-
Richmond
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $132,670
EPA Project Number.
R808303
The general objective of this research is to further the
knowledge in the area of activated sludge bulking at low organic
loading rates Specifically, the objectives will be to examine the
effects of aeration basin configuration, aeration basin dissolved
oxygen concentration and organic loading on activated sludge
settling properties
Previous work by the Principal Investigator has shown that at
low organic loadings increasing the degree of aeration basin
compartmentalization generally produces better settling
activated sludge The necessary degree of compartmentalization
to consistently achieve such improvements will be determined
In addition, the mechanism by which the installation of small
initial aeration basin compartments improves activated sludge
settling will be determined
These studies are being conducted in continuous flow
laboratory-scale activated sludge units operating on Richmond,
California settled domestic sewage In these activated sludge
units it is possible to control flow and concentration of influent
sewage in the aeration basin In addition to routine performance
and activated sludge settling characteristic measurements, a
determination of filamentous organism type and abundance in
the activated sludge is made routinely
The mechanisms of activated sludge settleabihty improvement
through aeration basin compartmentalization will involve
isolation and physiological/metabolic characterization of the
filamentous organisms causing deterioration of sludge settling
Our current data and previous literature suggests that one
possible reason that small initial compartments ameliorate
bulking is that in such compartments the activated sludge is
exposed to high organic matter levels and storage of these
organic substrates takes place The hypothesis is that
filamentous organisms causing bulking cannot store substrates
as effectively as floe forming organisms Thus, conditions
favoring substrate storage disfavor filamentous organism growth
and lead to well-settling activated sludge The hypothesis will be
tested both in the laboratory activated sludge systems using
domestic wastewaters and using the pure cultures of causative
filamentous organisms isolated from the activated sludge
The formation of storage products such as glycogen,
polyhydroxybutyrate, and polysacchande will be investigated
Attention will also be given to the important mechanisms taking
place in the large completely mixed aeration basin following the
small initial compartments The necessary detention time,
dissolved oxygen levels, etc , will be determined The utilization
of storage products in this basin will be studied
FY-81
18
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Title
Investigation of Filter Artifacts When Sampling Airborne Organic Partlculates
Principal Investigator. The objective of this research is to investigate the applicability
George J Doyle of centrifugal preconcentration of air pollution problems, in
particular the problem of reducing aerosol sampling artifacts
Institution. The plan is to demonstrate feasibility by building a small scale
University of model of the preconcentrator operating at a sampling rate of
California-Riverside 0 025 mVmm and systematically studying its performance If
results are promising, further studies of the factors affecting
Project Period. performance will be carried out culminating in the construction
2 years of a preconcentrator sampling at rates useful for field sampling
Work to date has consisted m design studies and in locating
Budget: sources of materials needed to construct the bench scale
(2 years) $100,000 preconcentrator
EPA Project Number-
R808021
19 FY-81
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Title:
Heavy Metal Effects on Gene Expression in Human Cells
Principal Investigator:
Michael Kann
Institution:
University of
California-
San Francisco
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $146,268
EPA Project Number'
Ft 809189
Metallothionems are low molecular weight proteins which
have unusually high cysteme content (30%) and no aromatic
ammo acids Metallothionems bind heavy metals that belong to
groups la and Ib (Cu, Ag, Zn, Cd, and Hg). Their normal
physiological role is probably regulation of trace element
metabolism (particularly Cu and Zn) Since they are induced in a
multitude of organisms (from yeast to man) by exposure to heavy
metals, it has been proposed that they also have a role in
protection against heavy metal poisoning
Metallothionems are induced in HeLa cells by glucocorticoid
hormones as well as heavy metals Both responses involve
primary induction, probably at the level of transcription This
property of the gene(s), together with other properties, make the
metallothionem system an attractive system for the study of
regulation of gene expression
The metallothionems are small proteins and their gene is also
relatively small (about 1 Kb in length) simplifying nucleic acid
sequence analysis, an important prerequisite for understanding
the molecular mechanisms involved in regulation of gene-
expression
Studying the regulation of metallothionems expression in
HeLa cells offers the opportunity of working with the best
characterized cell line which exhibits high levels of induction—
up to 50-fold with cadmium and ten-fold with glucocorticoids
Besides being a very valuable system for studying regulation of
gene expression, the metallothione system offers the unique
opportunity to study regulation of gene expression by metal ions
Some of these metals (such as cadmium) are potent carcinogens
and teratogens and understanding their molecular interactions
with the genome during induction of metallothione in
transcription might help in understanding the basis for their
action as carcinogens
The research will pursue the following objectives
(A) Metallothionem Gene Structure
(1) Determine the nucleotide sequence of the human
metallothionem genes and their 5' flanking regions
(2) Obtain a genomic linkage map of the different
metallothionem genes in humans
(3) Determine the chromosomal location of the human
metallothionem genes by screening DNA from mouse
X human cell hybrids, each of which contains a
different human chromosome
(B) Determine the Nucleotide Sequences Important for
Regulation of Metallothionem Express/on by Heavy Metals
and Glucocorticoids
(1) Look for nucleotide sequence homologies in the 5'
flanking regions of the metallothionem genes from
different species (yeast and human)
(2) Transfer the human metallothionem genes into mouse
LTKT cells and determine the level of their expression
and regulation In the event they are expressed and
regulated, a series of deletion mutants in the 5'
flanking regions will be prepared and a determination
made whether those deletions affect the expression
FY-81
20
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and regulation of the foreign metallothionem genes in
the mouse L cells Another approach will be to
construct a chimeric plasmid that has the 5' flanking
sequence from a metallothionem gene and the coding
region of the Herpes Simplex TK gene This hybrid
gene will be used to transform LTK~ cells which will
then be examined for regulation of TK activity by heavy
metals and glucocorticoids Those chimeric plasmids
have already been constructed
(3) An alternate approach to gene transfer will be to
construct a new hybrid plasmid that contains a
metallothionem gene and part of the genome
(sufficient for transformation) of Bovine Papilloma virus
(BPV) DMA to transform primary cultures of mouse
cells BPV transforms mouse cells and exists as an
autonomously replicating unit of low copy number The
regulation of the foreign metallothionem genes in such
transformants will be studied
(4) Analyze control regions of the metallothionem gene by
in vitro transcription The deletion mutants used for
gene transfer experiments will be used as templates
for in vitro transcription system that will respond to
heavy metal ions and will be useful in analyzing control
sequences different than the TATA box
(C) Analyze Fibroblasts Cultures from Patients with Genetic
Defects in Trace Element Metabolism
There are four genetic defects involving copper and zinc
metabolism Wilson's disease, Menke's Kinky hair syndrome,
acrodermatytis enteropathica and familial hyperzycemia Defects
in metallothionem expression have been proposed as the cause
for all of these syndromes The availability of cDNA probes for
the human structure and/or expression accounts for these
inborn disorders of copper and zinc metabolism
Some experiments directed toward this objective have been
undertaken already Results to date indicate that the induction of
MT mRNA by different metals and glucocorticoids to be readily
detected in primary human fibroblast cultures by Northern
hybridization, as a first step toward molecular understanding of
these defects
21 FY-81
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Title:
SCE Assay for Waterborne Genetic Hazards
Principal Investigator:
Michael B. Maddock
Institution:
College of Charleston
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years} $168,080
EPA Project Number:
R 808251
Many chemicals that eventually enter aquatic ecosystems
have potential genotoxic activity which may adversely affect
populations of aquatic organisms Aquatic species that serve as
food sources could in turn serve as vectors for human exposure
and possible increases in the incidence of genetic disease, birth
defects and cancer
Research is in progress to further develop, evaluate and apply
to field situations short term assays to measure chemically
induced genetic damage in an estuarme teleost, the oyster
toadfish (Opsanus tau) The research design is based on a
previous demonstration of sister chromatid exchange (SCE)
induction in dividing toadfish leukocytes that were exposed in
vitro to a chemical mutagen (ethylmethanesulfonate)
There are five objectives of this program
(1) To evaluate the induction of sister chromatid exchanges and
of chromosomal aberrations (CA) in cultured toadfish
leukocytes as indicators of genetic damage following in vitro
exposure to known mutagenic carcinogens.
(2) To develop and evaluate procedures to measure SCE and
CA induction following in vivo exposure (ip injection) to
known mutagenic carcinogens.
(3) To evaluate the sensitivity of in vivo induction of SCE and
CA for detecting the genotoxic effects of waterborne
mutagenic carcinogens
(4) To examine the possibility that residual genetic damage in
natural populations of toadfish can be detected as increased
SCE rates in dividing leukocytes from freshly caught,
untreated fish
(5) To examine the possibility that in vivo assays for SCE and
CA induction can be used for in situ assessment of
genotoxic hazard from point sources of estuarme pollution
Studies will also be continued to examine xenobiotic
metabolism, DNA repair and in vitro cell transformation in fish
tissues with the aim of developing further in vivo assays for
waterborne genetic hazards
FY-81
22
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Title:
Malignant Transformation of Human Dip/Old Cells by Chemical Carcinogens and Mutagens
from Residues of Drinking Water
Principal Investigator:
Henryka J Kurzepa
Institution:
University of
Cincinnati
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
12 years) $245,124
EPA Project Number:
R808703
The main goal of this research is to define a reliable human
model in vitro system applicable to an assessment of
environmental carcinogens The approach is based upon our
initial results using low-passage, normal diploid karyotype
fibroblasts derived from newborn foreskin (AG1 518) Features of
this study will include alternate methods of exposure to the
chemical agent, and examination of multiple criteria for
recognition of the transformed phenotypel Initial experiments
will use N-methyl-N'-nitro-N nitrosoguanidme applied to the
cells in doses which range from 1 to 15 g/ml
Cells will be exposed according to two protocols Monolayers
will be treated for 24 hours, washed and cultivated through
several doublings These cultures will be examined for
morphological and growth changes, for colony formation in
semi-soft agar and for malignancy in nude mice Mice will be
innoculated by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection, or by
surgical implants of pelleted cells imbedded in agar discs
Representative colonies in soft agar will also be propagated if
possible for transplantation to nude mice Alternatively, cells will
be seeded in semi-soft agar (10" cells/well) and exposed 24
hours later to the carcinogen. These will be cultivated and
monitored for colony formation for up to three weeks
Representative colonies will be isolated and tested for
malignancy in nude mice, directly and after in vitro propagation
Tumors will be characterized histologically and for human cell
markers (karyotype and biochemical markers) Subsequent
experiments may include tests of multiple exposure to single
agents Successful protocols will be tested using other known
carcinogens and environmental mutagens
23
FY-81
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Title:
Biotransformation of PAHs by Aquatic Plants
Principal Investigator:
David Warshawsky
Institution:
University of
Cincinnati
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $299,992
EPA Project Number:
R808459
The specific aims of this research using green algae,
duckweed, and tobacco callus and model plant systems are to
investigate the following:
(1) the metabolism of polycyhc aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)—
metabolism in light and dark condition will be compared and
the possibility of metabolism by extracellular enzymes will
be explored,
(2) the mutagenicity of the total organic extractable metabolic
products—metabolite patterns and mutagenicity of total
metabolites will be determined and compared to these
parameters observed in mammals,
(3) the accumulation of PAHs—uptake of PAHs of varying
structure (and biological activity in mammals) wil indicate if
accumulation is influenced by structure; and
(4) the effects of PAHs on growth, chlorophyll content and
energy stores (ATP)
Solubilized radlolabeled PAHs are diluted with unlabeled PAHs
to achieve the desired concentrations. Aliquots of PAH solutions
are added to plant cultures which are incubated either in the
dark or in light-dark cycles with conditions optimal for growth of
specific organisms In relation to incubation in time and photo-
period, PAHs are extracted from plant tissues and media. Total
PAHs and individual metabolites in plant tissue and media are
quantified by high performance liquid chromatography and liquid
scintillation spectrometry The mutagenic potential of total
metabolites (separated from the parent compound) is determined
in the Sa/mone//a/microsomal assay
Three PAHs with differing ring structure and biological activity
in mammals are used benzo(a)pyrene, 5 rings, strong
carcinogen benz(a)anthracene, 4 rings, weak carcinogen and
anthracene, 3 rings, noncarcmogen Establishing a relationship
between structure and uptake will aid in interpreting the results
of Graf and Diehl (1966) and Payer era/. (1975), who reported
that growth enhancement of algae was due to the selective
accumulation of carcinogenic PAHs
Metabolites of subtoxic concentrations of PAHs observed in
growth media may be excreted after cellular metabolism or may
be metabolized by extracellular enzymes secreted by plants To
identify the site of metabolism, oxidation products of PAHs are
assayed from incubation of PAHs in media removed from
cultures with and without prior PAH exposure Medium for
extracellular metabolisms studies is removed from plant cultures
at various times related to growth
This proposal contains new direction Metabolism of PAHs by
mammals and the biological effect of the metabolism,
particularly BAP, has been studied, but little work has been done
in plant systems. Although we can only hypothesize, at this
point, as to the potential significance of PAH interactions with
plants, it is important to extend our studies on PAHs in terms of
their accumulation and metabolism, as well as their effects on
growth of plants It is critical to know if PAHs in soil, surface
waters, sludge, and other wastes, are accumulated and
metabolized to mutagenic compounds which must be considered
in the assessment of risk
FY-81
24
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Title
Accelerated Settling of Suspensions by Addition of Buoyant Particles
Principal Investigator:
Ralph H Wei/and
Institution •
Clarkson College
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $83,864
EPA Project Number:
R808519
The objective of this research is to further develop the recent
discovery that the settling rate of a suspension can be enhanced
manyfold if a phase of opposite density to the settling materials
(relative to the suspending medium) is added to the slurry The
proposed work will develop along two lines (1) a detailed
fundamental investigation of the structure of the convective
motion set up by the presence of the extra phase, and (2) a full
investigation on the use of a multitude of small gas bubbles as
settling promoters The latter will be done mainly through batch
experiments, but with a brief amount of exploratory work on the
continuous mode using a bench scale continuous settler The
treatment of liquid-liquid dispersions is also of interest and will
be the subject of some preliminary experiments as part of Item
(1) below Specifically, we propose to do the following
(1) Investigate the influence of physical properties such as
density differences, polydisperse particles size, type of
particles phase (regular and irregular shape solids as well
as liquid droplets and gas bubbles) and vessel size on the
evolution of uniform settling into cluster formation and
intense streaming
(2) Investigate the utility of large numbers of small gas bubbles
as settling promoters by measuring disengagement and
total settling times and determining the settling efficiency
and optimum operating conditions for maximum
enhancement If total settling of a suspension is the
objective, as opposed to partial thickening, which is
distinctly different in three-phase settling (although not m
conventional settling), then the use of solid particles as the
added phase causes a number of problems Not the least of
these are (i) the necessity of recycling the added phase back
to the start of the process, and (n) the fact that what are
optimal conditions for the fast removal of one of the species
are far removed from the optimum for the other phase The
use of gas bubbles will form a major part of the work, quite
apart from its connection to item (1) above
(3) Perform some preliminary experiments on continuous
settling using gas bubbles as the accelerating agent m a
bench-scale or mmiplant settler.
25
FY-81
-------
Title:
Basic Physical Properties of Pollution Control Residues
Principal Investigator:
Richard I Dick
Institution:
Cornell University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years/$142.500
EPA Project Number:
R808324
The physical properties of residues produced by air and water
pollution control activities exert major influences on the gross
volume of residues to be managed and on the cost of residue
management Procedures for design and operational control of
processes whose performance depends on the physical
characteristics of sludges developed, of necessity, from practice,
and basic understanding of the performance of most of the
processes still is lacking
The objective of the proposed research is to develop means for
characterizing the basic physical properties of sludges so as to
improve the ability to effectively design and operate sludge
management facilities In recognition of the acquired value of
conventional empirical measures of the physical properties of
sludges, the significance of such parameters will be interpreted
in terms of basic measures of the physical properties of sludges.
The net result of successful completion of the research would be
a reduction in the gross mass of sludge produced in the course
of environmental quality control and a reduction in pollution
control costs
More specific major objectives of the proposed research are to'
(1} Develop means for characterizing the fundamental physical
properties of sludges that influence the performance of
sludge management processes. (Examples of fundamental
physical properties include permeability, particle size,
density and compressive strength.)
(2) Develop a body of information on the basic physical
properties of sludges of varying types This will be done
using the techniques developed for the first objective
(3) Determine the relationships between fundamental physical
properties of sludge and conventional empirical measures of
the physical properties of sludges (Examples of
conventional measures of physical properties of sludges
include the sludge volume index, specific resistance, and
capillary suction time )
(4) Assess the limitations of conventional empirical measures
of the physical properties of sludge in design and operation
of facilities for sludge management
FY-81
26
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Title.
Methane Fermentation of Coal Conversion Wastewater Constituents
Principal Investigators:
R E Speece
G. F Parkin
Institution:
Drexel University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $168.000
EPA Project Number:
R808010
Wastewaters generated from coal conversion processes are
expected to contain phenohcs, substituted phenolics, polycyclic
aromatics, heterocyclics, and aromatic acids and aldehydes
These wastewaters will most likely be treated biologically, and
there are several significant advantages to anaerobic biological
treatment Since the exact composition of coal conversion
wastewaters (CCWW) is yet unknown and is expected to be
variable, it is, therefore, desirable to assay the anaerobic
biodegradabihty and toxicity of individual components expected
to be present in CCWW Such fundamental information will
allow pollution control engineers to predict the potential
degradability of a CCWW once its characteristics are determined
The general objective of the research is to develop a catalogue
of CCWW components which are amenable to methane
fermentation Each of the twenty-four compounds expected to be
found in the highest concentration in CCWW will be individually
assayed for toxicity and biodegradation to methane The CCWW
constituent concentration that results in 50% inhibition to
unacclimated cultures will be determined. Detailed attention will
be paid to proper acclimation of the methane fermentation
cultures; the extent of acclimation will be determined The
potential for co-metabolism will be assayed. For those
components amenable to methane fermentation, biological
kinetic coefficients will be determined Also, of those
constituents biodegradable to methane, the intermediate
metabolites will be analyzed by GC and GC-MS techniques
During the second year of the study, the synergistic effects of
CCWW components will be assayed Also, a synthetic mixture
simulating a CCWW will be assayed for biodegradation to
methane
Serum bottles, submerged anaerobic filters, pH stats, and
complete-mix reactors will be employed using acetate,
propionate, and phenol enrichment cultures along with a seed
digester fed a mixture of organic substrates Disappearance of
individual CCWW components will be monitored using
appropriate GC techniques and methane production will also be
quantified using a GC Identification of intermediate metabolites
will be attempted using GC and GC-MS techniques Mass
balances will be calculated A distinction between the
concentration of material in the liquid phase and that absorbed
on the biomass will be made using appropriate extraction
techniques
27
FY-81
-------
Title:
Production, Culture, Food Habits and Impact of Hybrid Grass Carp
Principal Investigator:
Jerome V. Shireman
Institution:
University of
Florida
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $80,342
EPA Project Number:
R 807970
The objectives of this project are to
(1) Evaluate culture techniques to raise hybrid grass carp to
sufficient size for stocking in weed infested lakes
(2) Determine food habits and consumption rates of fry,
fingerlmg, and adult hybrids, and to determine how their
food habits relate to grass carp and endemic species
Culture techniques are currently being investigated in circular
tanks and pond situations Grass carp and hybrids are being
cultured simultaneously in 1 23 meter diameter tanks, utilizing
duckweed (Lemna sp ) chara (Chara sp ), filamentous algae,
hydnlla (Hydrila verticillata) and trout pellets as food. Growth
rates and consumption rates are monitored closely in these
experiments.
Hybrids have also been stocked in one-acre ponds where
growth rate and food habits are determined Experimental ponds
are fertilized with organic and inorganic fertilizer to encourage
plant growth, both phytoplankton and macrophytes Two ponds
are being circulated with paddle wheels to improve oxygenation
and water movement. Fry will be stocked in these ponds to
determine if water circulation will improve survival and growth
Food selectivity of fry, hybrids and adult fish will be determined
in pond situations where fish have a choice of phytoplankton,
macrophytes, invertebrates and fish Preliminary data indicate
that hybrids, unlike grass carp, prefer shara.
FY-81
28
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Title:
Particle Deposition in the Wake of Charged Spheres
Principal Investigator-
Michael J Matteson
Institution:
Georgia Institute
of Technology
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $92.444
EPA Project Number:
R809470
Earlier work by Matteson and co-workers wherein aerosols
were collected from gas streams moving around charged water
droplets indicated the likelihood of high rates of deposition on
the aft side of the droplet where flow conditions are not
adequately represented by potential flow theory Further tests
were made with metal spheres and the aerosol deposition
pattern observed with scanning electron microscopy Results
from these tests confirm that the developed wake has a definite
influence on the collection pattern as well as the overall
collection efficiency Generally, minima were observed aft of the
separation point at an angle at which the vortices flow
tangentially to the sphere Maxima appeared forward of the
separation and advanced toward the forward stagnation point as
the Reynolds Number increased and overall collection efficiency
declined At the higher levels of field intensity, the deposition
profile appeared flat as one scanned around the sphere with a
peak at the rear stagnation point Very little information is
available concerning deposition in the wake of moving droplets
The collecting sphere's efficiency is highly dependent on its
position relative to other spheres. Not only is the particle
collection affected by the wake from leading spheres, but also by
the electrical fields of neighboring spheres. This seems
particularly important for scrubbers and spray towers where
particles are collected by droplets moving at high Reynolds
numbers where wakes and eddies are quite common
The aim of the proposed work is to
(1) Measure local particle deposition (deposition as a function
of angle around the equator of the collecting sphere) for
various size collecting spheres and particles, particle charge
and field strength, and relative velocities
(2) Measure particles deposition in an array of charged spheres
with various relative distances and orientations between
spheres and various relative velocities, charge and field
strength, particle and sphere size
(3) Correlate particle deposition with Reynolds, Sotkes',
Coulomb attraction parameters, and orientation within a
field of charged spheres
The initial experiments are to be conducted with brass spheres
in the 01-60 mm diameter range Particles will consist of pre-
washed, latex spheres in the 01-50 micrometer range The
particles will be dispersed with a DeVilbiss No 40 nebulizer,
dried, and then charged in a concentric wire-m-cylmder corona
Particles will be analyzed to assess the effects of residue
aerosol The flowing aerosol stream will impinge on a sphere
mounted in the center of the flow channel The sphere is
removed, mounted on a rotatable scanning electron microscope
stub, and photographed at various positions around the equator
In the second phase of the experimental work, a series of
collecting spheres will be mounted in a line along the axis of
flow In this arrangement, the deposition on each sphere can be
compared with one another to ascertain the relative efficiency
with order m line In another set of tests, the spheres will be
staggered ri an array, much like bowling pins, and set first at
one distance to one another and then another A final series of
tests will '. d made with a three-dimensional array with both a
square ar d staggered configuration of collectors
29
FY-81
-------
Title:
Soot Formation in Gaseous Diffusion Flames
Principal In vestigator:
J I Jagoda
Institution:
Georgia institute
of Technology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years! S97,3S'/
EPA Project Number:
« 808953
Soot released during hydrocarbon combustion in fires and
many combustion devices is a major health hazard as well as a
technical problem due to the increased heat transfer to the
surroundings In order to facilitate a better understanding of soot
suppression techniques (e.g , by additives) the mechanisms of
soot formation in a diffusion flame is being investigated Smoke,
i e , aggregated soot particles, passes through four stages during
its formation pyrolysis of the original fuel, nucleation, growth by
surface deposition and/or coagulation and agglomeration The
physical mechanism for each of these steps must be known if
the chain leading to soot formation is to be successfully broken
Local soot particle diameters,and soot mass loadings are being
measured using suction probe techniques and transmission
electron microscopy The sizes and number densities of soot
aggregates and soot volume loadings are determined using
simultaneous laser light scattering and absorption Mapping out
these soot particle and agglomerate characteristics as well as
temperature and ion concentrations (Langmuir probe)
throughout the flame will result in the determination of the
position and, therefore, the environment in which the individual
steps of soot formation occur This will allow the investigators to
suggest which of the mechanisms found in the literature for
each of these steps is appropriate to the diffusion flame.
Recent advances in the field have suggested that flame
temperatures largely determine the amounts of soot found in
flames The above measurements are, therefore, carried out in a
diffusion flame whose temperature is varied by adding varying
quantities of inert gas, such as nitrogen, to the fuel flow This
will permit the determination of the extent of the effect of
temperature on the different soot formation steps outlined in the
first paragraph
The main fuel used in this investigation is propane Tests will
also be run using aromatics and gases consisting of conjugated
molecules, such as butadiene, in order to determine the effect of
the molecular structure of the fuel on the formation of soot
FY-81
30
-------
Title:
A Project to Develop Emission Spectroscopic Methods for Determining the Halogens and
Other Nonmetals Via Direct Current Plasma Exc/tatton
Principal Investigator:
J Taylor
Institution:
Hampton Institute
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $81,386
EPA Project Number:
R808676
The purpose of this project is to develop atomic Spectroscopic
methods for the determinations of nonmetallic elements using
direct current plasma as the excitation medium. The elements of
interest in this work include the halogens, phosphorus, silicon,
arsenic carbon, boron, sulfur and selenium
Measurement methods will be developed to determine
chlorine, fluorine, and bromine in the form of aluminum
monohalides Analytical data for these elements will be obtained
with the d c plasma system as well as with an atomic absorption
unit. These two sets of data will be compared with respect to
detection limits, linear dynamic range, precision, and other
parameters to evaluate the applicability of these approaches to
analytical measurements
Atomic emission methodologies, via d c plasma excitation, will
be developed and characterized for carbon, boron, phosphorus,
silicon, sulfur, arsenic and selenium The characterization of the
developed methodologies will be done on the basis of achievable
sensitivities, detection limits, analytical range, and interference
effects. The methodologies developed here will be compared
with other traditional and nontraditional methods which have
been employed for the determination of these elements
Both chemical and spectral interference effects will be
evaluated The means of introducing samples into the plasma
system will be of prime concern Thus, several nebulizer systems
will be evaluated including Bobington, Memhard, and crossflow
nebulizers
The methodologies developed in this work will be applied in
the determination of cited nonmetals in environmental samples
including natural waters and wastewaters Samples will be
collected from several locations in the Hampton Roads Area
These locations will include natural fresh water reservoirs and
creeks as well as wastewater treatment plant effluents and
industrial discharges In some cases, samples will be obtained
from other laboratories which are engaged in the determinations
of the elements in question. This will serve as cross-comparison
of the methods developed in this work with those which are
being used by others
Further evaluation of this work will rely on the comparison of
the data obtained with those which have been reported in the
literature using other methods In some instances, e g , the
determination of phosphorus and silica, parallel measurements
will be conducted for direct comparison of the methods
developed here with other conventional ones such as uv-vis
spectrophotometry
This project will be conducted in two phases The first phase
will constitute methods development and evaluation The second
phase will entail the applications of the methodologies developed
to the'analysis of environmental samples
31
FY-81
-------
Title:
Venturi Scrubber Performance and Optimization
Principal In vestigator:
David Leith
institution:
Harvard School of
Public Health
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years} $223,995
EPA Project Number:
R809003
Venturi scrubbers are widely used for control of fine particles
from industrial processes A major cost in control by scrubbing is
due to energy consumption from high gas-phase pressure drop
Recent theoretical work has shown that venturi performance
can be optimized through atomization of drops with proper size.
This can be accomplished by selection of proper gas velocity and
liquid injection rates through the venturi throat. Theoretically,
venturi optimization allows a substantial reduction in pressure
drop, and thus reduces energy consumption and operating cost
in comparison with a conventional venturi operating at the same
efficiency Alternatively, a substantial improvement in efficiency
is theoretically possible with an optimized venturi, in comparison
with a conventional venturi operating at the same pressure drop.
Experimental data from the literature, developed for another
purpose, support these theoretical conclusions However, careful
experimental work is necessary to confirm this theory directly, to
improve it, and to establish guidelines for its practical use
The objectives of the present work are to:
(1) Develop data that allow further refinement of venturi
performance and optimization theory
(2) Demonstrate the extent to which the theoretical benefit
from venturi optimization is achieved
(3) Develop recommendations for venturi design and operation
so that these benefits can be utilized in a practical way.
Implementation of results from this project may save as much
as one-third of operating cost for venturi scrubbers already
operating Even greater savings may be possible with new
Venturis designed according to guidelines to be developed at the
Harvard School of Public Health These savings are particularly
important in light of current high costs for energy
FY-81
32
-------
Title:
Limitations and Energetics of Hydrophobic (Nonpolar) Sorptlon of Organic Compounds by
Soils
Principal Investigator:
John J Hassett
Institution.
University of
Illinois
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $144,438
EPA Project Number:
R808417
The objectives of the proposed research are.
(1) To examine the mechanism(s) involved in the hydrophobic
sorption of nonpolar organic compounds by soils and
sediments Sorption constants are being measured in
different solvent systems and at different temperatures in
an attempt to measure the enthalpies and entropies of
sorption Hydrophobic sorption appears to be an entropy
driven process and these measurements should provide
insight into the driving mechanisms Both batch equilibrium
sorption experiments and kinetic experiments are being
conducted
(2) To determine the limitations of the log Koc-log Kow and log
Koc-log S relationships that have been developed by several
investigators to allow prediction of a compound's sorption
constant (Koc) which has been normalized for the organic
carbon content of the oils or sediment from the organic
compounds octanol-water partition coefficient (Kow) and/or
its water solubility (S) Soils and sediments with a wide
range of pertinent properties have been collected from a
wide geograhic area These soils will be used in sorption
experiments with a wide range of organic compounds to
define the limits of the log Koc-log Kow and log Koc-log S
relationships. High pressure liquid chromotograpny is being
used to determine the concentration of the compounds in
the sorption experiments
33
FY-81
-------
Title:
Effects of Toxic Substances on Memory
Principal In ves tig a tor:
George A Heise
Institution:
Indiana University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $194,916
EPA Project Number-
R809152
The research is a comparison of the effects of exposure to
toxic substances and reference drugs on memory, acquisition,
and general performance of young, mature, and old rats In
addition to providing useful data on particular toxic substances,
the research has the more general objective of establishing the
feasibility and importance for behavioral toxicology of
determining effects of toxic substances on memory and
acquinsition, and of demonstrating procedures by which this can
be accomplished
There are four related goals
(1) Introduction of new methods for behavioral toxicology Rats
will be trained and tested in four discrete-trail operant
procedures developed in our laboratory for measuring
memory acquisition, and general behavior These methods
provide stable baselines of behavior that have been shown
to be sensitive to drug treatment and should also be
sensitive to toxic substances The various measures of
memory will be compared with each other and with other
various measures of behavior from the same and other
situations for sensitivity to the toxicants and reference
drugs, and for analyzabihty and general feasibility
(2) Determination of effects of particular toxicants on memory,
acquisition and general behavior. Initially, this research will
determine the effects on behavior in the four test situations
of three insecticides that affect cholmergic system
functioning carbaryl (1 -naptyl Nl-methyl carbamate), Baygon
(Propoxur, o-isopropophenyl N-methyl carbamate) and
Decamethrin, a synthetic pyrethroid Carbaryl and Baygon
inhibit cholmesterase (Goldberg, 1983, Desi, 1974) and
decamethrin has some cholmergic-like effects on behavior
(Ray and Cremer, 1979) The toxicants will be compared for
behavioral effects with three reference drugs scopolamme,
and anticholmergic, phsostigmme, an anticholmesterase,
and d-amphetamme, which is catecholammergic in
behavioral effect at the doses to be used in this research
Later, other toxic substances will be studied, using optimal
methods and procedures developed in the research with
toxicants named above
(3) Evaluation of various treatment regimens Sensitivity to
toxicants is expected to depend on age of the animals and
the conditions of treatment In order to evaluate these
effects, acute toxicants will be administered to rats of three
different ages; beginning at <30 days, 70, and 470 days of
age. Animals will be trained and tested with toxicants and
reference drugs at the latter two stages In addition, some
animals will receive subacute administrations of a toxicant
during the period between the testing stages
(4) Enhanced understanding of behavioral and biochemical
processes in animal memory The four behavioral situations
permit separation of treatment effects on memory
performance from effects on other behaviors The role of
underlying neurotransmitter processes can be inferred from
known pharmacological action of the toxicant and reference
drugs used
FY-81
34
-------
Title:
Fundamental Analytical and Spectroscopic Studies Exploiting Laser lonization
Principal Investigator.
James P Reilly
Institution:
Indiana University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $163,490
EPA Project Number:
R808790
The conjunction of laser-induced molecular lonization with
mass spectrometry is particularly fortuitous since it enables us to
learn more about the former phenomenon by exploiting the latter
technique, while at the same time we may be able to improve
the latter technique by exploiting some of the unique properties
of the former phenomenon One of its most significant features
is the potential impact that multiphoton lonization mass
spectrometry (MPI/MS) may have in analytical chemistry In
order to better measure this, the Principal Investigator is
continuing his investigations of the lonization probability of a
variety of organic compounds
The substances chosen are industrial products manufactured
in massive quantities which now appear at barely detectable
levels in our environment Experiments of a fundamental nature
will also be performed with the proposed apparatus to probe
more deeply into the lonization phenomenon The low-pressure,
collision-free operating conditions, the excellent time resolution
provided by available pulsed discharge lasers and the sensitivity
of the technique facilitate novel studies of the interaction of laser
radiation with isolated gas phase molecules Molecular
Spectroscopic, excited state relaxation and lonization potential
data are all extractable in the proposed experiments In some
cases, this information can even be obtained on transient
species
The Principal Investigator proposes to set up a general purpose
apparatus which is a combination of two already successfully
operating spectrometers
35
FY-81
-------
Title:
Evaluation of Factors Affecting Selection of Media for Anaerobic Packed-Bed Reactors
Principal Investigator:
James C. Young
Institution:
Iowa State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $137,030
EPA Project Number:
R809524
The advantages of using anaerobic PBRs for treating low-
strength soluble organic wastes effectively and efficiently at
nominal temperatures have been demonstrated However,
previous in-depth investigations have been limited to small
laboratory-scale units and to the use of small plastic, stone or
ceramic modules as a packing medium Larger units have been
constructed for treating some industrial wastewaters, but the
designs often were based on limited data, and their long-term
performance in some cases has been less than expected.
One important design factor about which little is known is the
effect of media shape and size A computer model suggests that
the critical factors affecting PBR performance—biological solids
entrapment, biological solids transport, surface area of attached
and flocculated solids, and short-circuiting—are related to media
design and size. Both the need for and frequency of biological
solids wasting no doubt is related to media design and size, as is
the potential for plugging
Media design and size likely will be dictated by intended
application. For example, units containing small media generally
are expected to give better waste removal performance than
units containing large media when operating at the same loading
rate Consequently, scale-up using parameters developed from
test units containing small media to the designing of units using
large media could introduce considerable error.
Because of these needs, the subject research study involves
operation of a number of anaerobic PBRs under controlled
conditions for the purpose of achieving the following objectives:
(1) Determining the effect on PBR performance of using
different sizes and designs of media with the goal of
optimizing gas production and waste removal through
proper selection of media
(2) Determining the effect of media design and size on
biological solids accumulation and the need for solids
wasting with the goal of achieving long-term satisfactory
operation with a minimum of sludge wasting and reactor
cleaning
(3) Determining the relationship between organic loading,
performance, and media shape and size with the goal of
identifying design parameters for process scale-up
(4) Refining mathematical models to obtain a better
understanding of the fundamental operation of the system
and to help identify parameters of importance to design,
particularly those related to media design.
All tests will be conducted using pilot-scale reactors 20-mches
(0 5m) in diameter and 6 feet (2m) tall. Reconstituted industrial
wastes will be fed to these units in various concentrations and
over a wide range of organic loadings to determine the media-
related loading limits and performance characteristics
FY-81
36
-------
Title:
Metabolic Factors as Determinants of Lung Toxicity
Principal Investigator:
David J. P Bassett
Institution:
Johns Hopkins
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $163.127
EPA Project Number:
R809091
This study will provide the basis of understanding those
factors that affect the retention, clearance and health
consequences of inhaled substances found m the environment.
The combustion of fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, results in
the generation of air pollutants that include polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAH) such as the carcinogen benzo(a)pyrene, and
the oxides of nitrogen and sulphur Assessment of risk to human
health caused by PAH emissions requires an understanding of
the metabolic and environmental factors that influence their
deposition, retention and clearance in lung tissue Since the
alveolar region represents a major deposition site of PAHs bound
to submicron particulates, an isolated perfused rat lung
preparation will be used to characterize the role of lung
parenchymal tissue ip the activation and detoxification of inhaled
PAHs. Such metabolism will influence the amount of deposited
PAHs available for translocation to airway sites of PAH-mduced
lung cancers
A model system for evaluating lung pathways of PAH
metabolism will be established, based on benzo(a)pyrene (BaP)
administered to perfused rat lungs either in the perfusate or by
tracheal instillation. BaP metabolism will be measured by
radioisotope incorporation into primary and secondary
metabolites, isolated from the perfusate and lung tissue fractions
at different times of perfusion. Since the various activation and
detoxification pathways require the coenzymes NADPH and
reduced glutathione (GSH), the metabolic control of these
pathways will be investigated by the use of inhibitors of GSH
metabolism and by perfusion with electron acceptors such as
methyl viologen (paraquat) and phenazme methosulphate, that
affect the supply and redox-state of NADPH. This system will
then be used to evaluate changes in the pattern of PAH
metabolites and enzymes m lungs taken from animals pretreated
with carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic PAHs Since the tissue
supplies of NADPH and GSH are also required for cellular de
novo fatty acid synthesis and anti-oxidant defense mechanisms,
relationship between PAH exposures and these lung
intermediary metabolic processes are, therefore, to be
established Chronic exposures to oxidant pollutants have been
shown to alter the !ung enzymes of NADPH and GSH
metabolism The pathways of PAH metabolism will, therefore,
also be evaluated in lungs taken from animals following
exposures to ozone
37
FY-81
-------
Title:
Neurotoxicity of Low Level Prenatal Exposure to Hypoxic Agents
Principal In vest/gator:
Laurence D. Fechter
Institution:
Johns Hopkins
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $142,002
EPA Project Number:
Ft 809061
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a major environmental health hazard
for which occupational and ambient air exposure standards have
been promulgated The data upon which these standards are
based comes largely from fully developed adult organisms living
at sea level Far less data is available on potential high risk sub-
groups such as the aged, chronically ill or immature organism or
individuals residing at high altitude (c f National Commission on
Air Quality report, "Health Effects of Carbon Monoxide at High
Altitude," Denver, 1980) Based on a variety of physiological
considerations including normal fetal oxygen consumption and
availability of adaptive responses of hypoxia, there is reason to
believe that the fetus is particularly sensitive to CO and
presumably other chemical asphyxiants such as
dichloromethane (DCM)
The Principal Investigator has recently described a variety of
functional deficits produced in rats exposed prenatally to a low
concentration of CO and has begun to determine the
neurological basis for these toxicity signs Additional
experiments with CO will be conducted to determine a threshold
level at which toxicity occurs and whether such toxicity can be
attributed to exposure during a sensitive or "critical" gestational
period. Parallel experiments with DCM will be used to help
predict the generality of the findings with CO to other chemical
asphyxiants. These studies will also provide basic information
concerning the toxicity of DCM. The specific measures of toxicity
to be used include tests of behavioral development, learning and
retention and biochemical measures of nucleic acid and protein
levels in brain regions
FY-81
38
-------
Title:
Detection of Somatic Cell Mutations in Human Erythrocytes by Labelling with Antibodies
Against Glycophorin A
Principal Investigator:
Ronald H Jensen
Institution:
Lawrence Livermore
National Laboratory
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $295,436
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808642
The principal objective of this project is to develop and test an
assay for detecting somatic cell mutations in human
erythrocytes. The assay is based on labelling cells taken from
peripheral blood of humans with monospecific monoclonal
antibodies against the surface glycoprotem, glycophonn A
Monoclonal antibodies to each of the two allelic forms of
glycophonn, glycophonn AM and glycophorm AN are being
isolated and conjugated with different fluorescent labels
Erythrocytes from individuals who are heterozygous at the
glycophorm locus contain both allelic forms on the cell surface
Thus, a large majority of these red cells will be doubly labelled
However, stem cells that were mutated at the glycophorm gene
should throw off daughter cells that would contain only one of
the two allelic forms on their surface and thus would be only
singly labelled. Dual beam flow cytometry of the labelled cells
should allow enumeration of these rare, putatively mutant cells
The frequency of such cells should be a measure of
accumulated genetic injury to the erythroid stem cells of
individual humans and therefore permit the early effect of
mutagenic exposure to be detected. Genetic biochemical studies
also will be performed to validate that the assay detects
somatically mutant cells and that the frequency of such cells is
related to past exposure of the individual to mutagenic
chemicals.
39
FY-81
-------
Title:
Rapid Screening Method for Genotoxic Chemicals
Principal In vestigator:
Larry H. Thompson
Institution:
Lawrence Livermore
National Laboratory
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
12 years) $258,314
EPA Project Number:
R808641
Using mammalian cells, a unique short-term assay that can
efficiently screen for chemical mutagens will be developed. The
test employs mutant strains of Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)
cells that are substantially more sensitive than the parental wild
type (WT) to killing and mutation induction by a broad spectrum
of mutagens. Different mutant strains show specificity in their
sensitivity to mutagen classes, as the result of different defects
in the repair of damaged DNA. Compared to human repair-
deficient mutants such as xeroderma pigmentosum, the CHO
strains have much more favorable growth properties, derive from
a common parent, and can likely provide a broader spectrum of
hypersensitivity to mutagens This assay will exploit cytotoxicity
measurements, which are easily and rapidly performed, and will
detect genetic damage as differential killing of WT vs mutant
cells This difference provides a simple indication of unrepaired
lethal damage to the DNA of one or more sensitive strains.
Assays will be conducted in 24-well plastic trays in which the
cells are exposed to mutagen for 4 hours, incubated for 3 days
for cell growth, and then fixed and stained The intensity of
staining is a measure of the amount of cell growth and can be
converted into a semiquantitative inverse measure for toxicity
The genetic significance of the differential cytotoxicity will be
confirmed on selected compounds by demonstrating enhanced
forward mutation induction in the repair-deficient cells, using
two drug resistance markers (asaadenine resistance and
thioguanme resistance) At the same time, the utility of repair-
deficient cells for standard mutagemcity tests will be assessed
The most appropriate mutant strains will be selected and
characterized in terms of sensitivity to different kinds of direct-
acting mutagens (simple alkylating agents, large-adduct
alkylatmg agents, and DNA cross-linkers), as well as
promutagens requiring activation Major emphasis will be placed
on achieving efficient conditions for detecting a wide variety of
promutagens (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, aromatic
amines, etc ). This will require defining the appropriate metabolic
activation systems in the form of liver microsomal fractions or
feeder layers of metabohcally competent cells, such as
hepatocytes Standardized assays for cytotoxicity and
mutagemcity will thus be established and applied to sets of
known mutagens, as well as novel compounds of interest.
FY-81
40
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Title:
Reduction of Airborne Radon in Houses by Removal from Household Water Supply
Principal Investigators:
Jerry D. Lowry,
Willem F Brutsaert
Institution:
University of
Mame-Orono
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
12 years) $64,293
EPA Project Number:
R808724
The occurrence of radon in domestic water supply systems has
been well documented High concentrations have been reported in
Maine, New Hampshire, and other New England states, North
Carolina and Europe Recently, the highest known radon
concentration in a domestic water supply was measured at
approximately 2 0 million picoCunes/L in Maine, where it is not
uncommon to find Rn-222 levels in excess of 100,000 pCi/L in
granite aquifers
Radon gas is known to be carcinogenic by two pathways In the
first, radon is ingested with water directly, and in the second,
radon is inhaled after partitioning into indoor air from radon-
enriched water. The potential seriousness of the problem is
growing due to the increasing number of drilled wells and the
current trend toward well-insulated homes Because of the health
hazard related to airborne radon, the U S. Surgeon-General, HUD,
and the U S Environmental Protection Agency have recommended
or are considering maximum working levels for radon
concentrations in homes located in areas of high radon Based on
the strong correlation between radon in water supplies and in
indoor air, it follows that removal of radon from water supplies
must occur to avoid mgestion and inhalation in the household
The intended project scope is comprised of two basic phases:
(1) Phase I: Laboratory Demonstration of Granular Activated
Carbon (GAG) and Diffused Aeration Radon Removal
Systems, and
(2) Phase II: Field Demonstration of Optimized Removal Units
Phase I of the project also includes a theoretical study of the
adsorption/decay phenomenon of radon removal by GAC
adsorption, and Phase II encompasses indoor air quality
monitoring of radon with and without prior removal from the water
supply
The objectives of Phase I will be accomplished by conducting the
following research:
(1) Design and construct a radon generator to supply 350 gpd at
a 100,000 pCi/L radon concentration.
(2) Extended period steady-state testing of four commercial GAC
removal units (1.0, 1 5, 2 0, and 2 5 ft3 capacity).
(3) Theoretical GAC adsorption/decay model development and
experimental verification
(4) Extended period testing of three diffused aeration units (40,
80, and 120 gallon capacity).
(5) Optimization of engineering parameters involved with the
diffused aeration units.
Except for the theoretical GAC experiments, all removal
research will be conducted using full-scale units, making a direct
transition from laboratory research to field demonstration possible
It is anticipated that in the extended period of field research to
follow, three GAC units and two diffused aeration units will be
monitored in homes having water supply radon concentrations
from approximately 30,000 pCi/L to greater than 100,000 pCi/L
41
FY-81
-------
Title:
Toxicological and Chemical Interactions of Metal Oxides and Sulfur Dioxide
Principal Investigators:
Mary 0 Amdur,
John F Elliott
Institution:
Massachusetts
Institute of
Technology
Project Period:
4 years
Budget:
(2 yearsj $250,627
EPA Project Number:
Ft 809104
This is an interdisciplinary program, the mam aim of which is
to correlate the toxicological response of experimental animals
exposed to metal oxide aerosols and sulfur dioxide with the
nature of the paniculate sulfur species formed The experimental
protocol permits the mixing of the metal oxides at chamber
temperature or at furnace temperature Water vapor may be
added either to the exposure chamber or to the furnace so that
the effect of humidity can be studied under different mixing
temperatures
The methods of toxicological assessment include
measurement of mechanics of respiration in guinea pigs made
before, during, and after exposure Also measured are the
uptake, clearance, and biological distribution of the metal oxide
aerosols as affected by particle shape and by combination with
sulfur dioxide Other related work (supported by NIEHS) includes
pulmonary function tests to evaluate post-exposure effects (lung
volumes, static compliance, CO single breath diffusing capacity)
as well as pathological studies Thus, the biological response to
the same experimental atmospheres can be evaluted in a variety
of ways
Current animal work uses combustion-generated zinc oxide
aerosols, both as chain aggregates and as acicular particles, both
in the submicron particle size range Methods for determination
of the nature of particulate sulfur species include Electron
Spectroscopy for Chemical Analysis (ESCA), and specific wet
chemical methods (West-Gaeke for sulfite and turbidimetnc for
sulfate). Development work on aerosol generation is currently a
fine silica aerosol which will be surface layered with zinc
FY-81
42
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Title:
Peroxidase for the Removal of Toxic Pollutants from Industrial Waste Waters
Principal Investigators:
Alexander M
Klibanov
Institution:
Massachusetts
Institute of
Technology
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
11 year) $47,313
EPA Project Number:
R808619
The project deals with the application of the enzyme
peroxidase from horseradish for the removal of toxic phenols and
aromatic amines from industrial aqueous effluents This
approach is based on the phenomenon that peroxadase catalyzes
oxidation of a number of different phenols and aromatic amines
with hydrogen peroxide As a result of this oxidation, water-
msoluble polyaromatic products are formed. In contrast to their
water-soluble precursors, these polymers can be relatively easily
removed from water by such methods as sedimentation,
filtration, flocculation, or coagulation. Therefore, in essence, the
enzyme precipitates pollutants from water
The enzymatic removal of phenols and aromatic amines from
water will be studied quantitatively as a function of the
concentration of peroxidase, Hid, and pollutants and also of pH,
temperature and treatment time The mechanism by which
easily removable phenols and aromatic amines aid in the
removal of other pollutants by peroxidase and hydrogen peroxide
will be investigated The optimal operational conditions for the
enzymatic treatment will be established Experiments with
"real" industrial aqueous effluents obtained from a chemical
plant will be carried out. The economic feasibility of the
peroxidase removal of hazardous pollutants from industrial
waste water will be assessed.
43
FY-81
-------
Title:
The Formation of Carbonaceous Particulates During the Pyrolysis and Oxidation of Coals and
Residual Oils
Principal Investigator:
Adel F Sarofim
Institution:
Massachusetts
Institute of
Technology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $206,342
EPA Project Number:
R808774
The puipose of this project is to systematically examine the
influence of fuel combustion conditions and fuel composition on
the formation of soot during the combustion of oils and coals and
the formation of coked particles during the combustion of heavy
fuel oil. Experiments are to be conducted on a finely dispersed
stream of coal and oil particles entrained in a laminar flow of
gas, the composition and temperature of which can be
systematically varied The carbonaceous paniculate will be
measured by the time resolved collection of the products of
combustion and size classification of the particulate by
aerodynamic means Measurement of the soot concentration will
also be made in-situ by monitoring absorption and emission by
the particle cloud.
The variables to be studied are, for the coals, the particle size,
coal rank, oxygen concentration of the ambient gas with
particular attention to the role of volatile composition and mode
of combustion on soot formation Similarly for the oils the effect
of droplet composition, droplet size and combustion environment
on the soot formation will be studied with special attention on
the effect of the extinction of the volatile flame by either a
decrease in oxygen concentration or increase in COa
concentration Multicomponent fuels will be used to examine the
conditions under which coked cenospheres are produced as a
consequence of the liquid phase cracking of heavy components
and to the conditions under which droplet fragmentation occurs
due to the internal boiling of high components. A model of the
governing processes will be developed to facilitate the
generalization of the results
FY-81
44
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Title.
Ulva lactuca L as a Bioindicator of Coastal Water Quality
Principal Investigator:
R W/lce
Institution:
University of
Massachusetts
Project Period:
15 months
Budget'
(I'A year) $53,815
EPA Project Number:
R808770
The principal objectives of this proposal are to test our
preliminary results and refine methodologies concerning the use
of green seaweed Ulva lactuca (sea lettuce) as a monitor of
pollutants in coastal waters Extracts from Ulva tissue occurring
naturally and from deployed plants of uniform genotype will be
used to screen for mutagens, organohalides and heavy metals
Procedures developed during the tenure of a Massachusetts
Water Resources Grant will be combined with mutagenicity
assay techniques to identify high priority populations of U
lactuca for subsequent intensive chemical investigation
Our results using the Eschenchia coli Pol A assay demonstrate
that some Ulva populations are mutagen free, others have
accumulated mutagenic compounds Additional assays (Ames
Test, Saccharomyces cerevisiae D4 and D7 strains) are proposed
as confirmatory tests of the E coli assays used to date. Ulva
populations which give the strongest indication of mutagen
accumulation will receive intensive chemical investigation.
Genotypically identical Ulva germlings will be deployed at
selected statons, retrieved when mature in situ, and subjected to
mutagenicity screening and tissue analysis Naturally occurring
Ulva plants from the same localities, and water samples, will be
collected and analyzed for the compounds of interest A wide
range of stations will be designated, ranging from heavily
polluted to chemically "clean," and will include a wide spectrum
of physical regimes Sufficiently numerous tissue collections will
be made to permit conclusions concerning the variation of Ulva
cell constituents over time Efforts will be made to improve
experimental protocols for both tissue analyses and germlmg
deployment procedures.
45
FY-81
-------
Title:
The Testing of Fetuses and Newborns lor Cardiovascular Problems after Exposure to
Pesticides and Other Toxic Substances
Principal In vestigator:
Casimer T
Grabowski
Institution:
University of
Miami
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $118.793
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808938
An urgent need in the field of teratogenic screening is the
development of more sensitive methods for evaluating
developmental toxicity An ideal test or series of tests would
provide (1) some objective evaluation of the general state of
health and viability of fetus and newborns, (2) criteria which can
be standardized so that the results obtained in different
laboratories could be compared, and (3) reasonable economy in
terms of operator time and equipment. A technique recently
developed at the University of Miami, fetal and neonatal
electrocardiography, meets these criteria and has potential for
general use
This technique was applied to study the effects of prenatal
exposure to the fire ant pesticide, Mirex This insecticide does
not induce many visible abnormalities, but does precipitate a
high incidence of perinatal mortality for totally unknown
reasons It was found that treated fetuses had heart blocks and
other cardiovascular problems. Thus, it has been demonstrated
that one of the major causes of the perinatal mortality induced
by Mirex are functional problems with the cardiovascular
system, something which standard teratological testing could not
have determined
The principal objective of this project is to develop fetal and
neonatal electrocardiography of small mammals as standardized
tests for evaluating developmental toxicity This test can be an
excellent diagnostic indicator of fetal health, just as useful as its
human counterpart Since it is based on physiological criteria, it
has the potential of being more sensitive than those based solely
on morphological criteria and should be a useful adjunct to
traditional screening methods
Another objective of this project is to evaluate the
developmental toxicity of several pesticides, herbicides, and
other toxic substances by studying the cardiovascular physiology
of embryos, fetuses, and newborns prenatally exposed to them
The ECG test will be applied to rats and mice, especially at
minimally toxic doses, to determine its usefulness and sensitivity
to detect toxicity
A subordinate goal is to apply this and other tests to study the
physiological mechanism of action of Mirex and other pesticides
on rat fetuses
FY-81
46
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Title:
Chemical Behavior of Chromium: Water-Sediment Systems
Principal Investigator:
David T. Long
Institution:
Michigan State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $62,721
EPA Project Number:
R808306
Objective The mobility of any metal in exogenic environments
is controlled by adsorption and precipitation-dissolution
reactions. These properties, in turn, are controlled by the
environmental parameters Eh, pH, ionic strength, temperature,
and composition of the solution and by the presence of charged
substrates such as clays, iron-manganese oxides and organic
material The importance of adsorption on the mobility of metals
is known, but the relative importance of the various adsorbing
substrates in natural systems is not well known. This is
particularly true for chromium It appears, for example, that the
relative importance of the listed substrates in controlling the
migration of chromium is different among study areas and can
have changes in their relative importances within a study area.
The objective of this research is to gain a better understanding of
the controls on the adsorption of chromium on various
substrates. The working hypothesis of this research is that the
differences in the relative importance of the various adsorbing
substrates among and within study areas is a function of the
complex interplay of the environmental parameters listed, the
pHzpc of the specific substrate, and the oxidation state of
chromium This objective will be accomplished by studying the
fate of chromium in surface environments due to its addition
from a highly industrial/populated area The field study area is
the Grand River, Lansing, Michigan
Approach: The approach of this study is to determine the
chemical partitioning of chromium in the stream sediments and
interpret the results in light of the working hypothesis.
Chromium concentrations in six fractions of the stream sediment
(clays, iron oxides, manganese oxides, carbonates, organic
matter, and detrital) will be determined by the method of
sequential selective chemical attacks The concentrations of Fe,
Mn, Pb, Cu, and Zn will also be measured in these fractions and
compared to the Cr concentrations to aid in the chemical
interpretations. Chromium partitioning in the sediment as a
function of gram size (< and > 0 1 5mm) will also be determined.
A limitation of past work on determining the partitioning of
chromium in sediments and soils is that few considered the
effect of the amount of the adsorbing phase present when
interpreting the importance of a particular phase in sequestering
a metal For some studies, not considering the amount of phase
present is valid On the other hand, studies that are trying to
determine the relative importance of the phases and interpret
the results chemically, such as in this study, this type of an
approach is not valid. This study will consider the amount of
adsorbing phase present in the interpretation of the results by
using the concept of phase concentration factor which attempts
to normalize the partitioning results to equal amounts of phase
present The partitioning results will also be studied without
normalizing in order to determine what effects this may have on
the interpretation of the data
47
FY-81
-------
Title:
Development and Application of an In Vitro Tumor Promoter
Principal Investigator:
James E. Trosko
Institution:
Michigan State
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(1 year) $261.623
EPA Project Number:
R808587
Carcmogenesis appears to be comprised of two distinct
phases, namely initiation and promotion The imtition phase
describes the permanent alteration of a single cell to a
"premalignant" or initiated status. Agents which damage DNA
or mutate cells appear to be initiators. Promotion involves the
clonal expansion of these initiated cells, during which time, an
evolution of changes occurs in these initiated cells to bring about
the malignant stage
The objective of this research project is to develop a
quantitative in vitro assay to detect chemicals which could be
tumor promoters and to use this assay to study the mechanism
of tumor promotion The in vitro assay being used is based on
measuring intercellular communication (i.e., "metabolic
cooperation") between two strains of Chinese hamster cells
Validation of the assay, as well as the study of how intercellular
communication might play a role in tumor promotion, has been
under investigation.
To date, the Principal Investigator's results have been
promising in that, using his in vitro assay, he has shown that he
can eliminate confusion in the literature concerning the
discrepancies between the results of the Ames in vitro assay for
screening mutagens and in vivo results testing these chemicals
for "carcmogenicity" For example, dmitrobenzene is positive as
a mutagen in the Ames assay, negative as a tumor initiator in
animal test, positive in the intercellular communication assay as
an inhibitor of intercellular communication and positive as a
tumor promoter in the mouse skin.
In addition, the Principal Investigator has shown that dieldrin,
aldrin, polychlormated biphenyls, polybrommated biphenyls,
teleocidm (a natural promoter), mirex, kepone, 2,4,5-T, and 2,4D
all inhibit intercellular communication at non-cytotoxic
concentrations The assay not only has proven its ability to
validate known tumor promoters, but also to predict that certain
chemicals would be tumor promoters in vivo from in vitro results.
It has been shown that 2,4,5,2',4',5'-HBB, but not 3,4,5,3',4',5',-
HBB is both an inhibitor of intercellular communication in vitro
and a tumor promoter of rat liver tumors in vivo.
Lastly, a conceptual linkage of cells which inhibit intercellular
communication in vitro to teratogens and reproductive toxicants
has been made.
FY-81
48
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Title:
Development and Applications of Biomembrane Toxicity Electrodes
Principal Investigators:
K. H Mancy,
M. E. Myerhoff,
B. Chin,
M, Brabec
Institution:
University of
Michigan
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years/$104,097
EPA Project Number:
ft 808063
The objective of this project is the development of simple, but
effective, rapid techniques for toxicity measurements The
underlying principle of these new sensors is the amperometric or
potentiometnc detection of changes in the biochemical activity of
bacteria, mammalian cells, organelles or certain enzymes,
affected by a toxicant or group of toxicants. Generally classified
as biomembrane electrodes, these sensor systems may
incorporate the biological material in an immobilized layer
directly mounted on an ultrasensitive base electrode. The scope
of this study includes the following sensor systems.
(1) Mutagenicity Sensor Research findings indicate the
feasibility of a mutagenicity sensor based on the principle of
the Ames Assay In this case, immobilized mutant strains of
Salmonella typhyrium are mounted on an ultrasensitive
oxygen electrode and incubated in the absence of histidine,
which is required for growth Respiratory activities were.
determined in the absence and presence of suspected
mutagenic agents In case of mutagemc transformation to
histidine independence, growth of revertant bacteria is
easily and rapidly sensed by an increase in respiratory
activity. This procedure took no more than 3-4 hours,
instead of the 2-3 days required to conduct the traditional
Ames Assay.
An alternate test procedure will utilize B subtilis M45
(Rec~) which is genetically deficient in DNA recombination
and B. subtilis H17 (Rec+), the wild type. Both strains will be
immobilized on two separate oxygen electrodes. Lethal
mutation will kill the Rec" bacteria and will have less effect
on the respiratory activity of the wild type Rec*.
(2) Broad Spectrum Toxicity Sensors This includes
biomembrane electrode systems in which the biological
membrane is made of immobilized (a) yeast cells, (b)
mammalian tissue, and (c) mitochondria. The inhibition or
alterations in the activity of the biological membrane,
induced by a toxicant, will be monitored by determining
oxygen uptake or carbon dioxide production using
appropriate base electrodes
(3) Automated Toxicity Biomonitor. This is an on-line
automated biotoxicity assay utilizing ammonia gas
potentiometnc electrode The reagents used are ammonia
gas producing biocatalysts which serve as biological
indicators for the screening of toxic substances. This
included the use of Urea-Urease System for heavy metal
screening and Ammo Acid Oxidase System for organic
compound screening.
(4) Disposal Pesticide-Nerve Gas Sensor: This sensor system is
based on the inhibition of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase
induced by certain pesticides and nerve gases. The
detection of the immobilized enzyme activity is done by
measuring the rate of production of acetic acid according to
the following reaction'
acetychohne + H20 > cholme + acetic acid
A newly developed polymer membrane pH electrode was
used to monitor the reaction This new pH sensor is
inexpensive, disposable and replaces the costly fragile glass
pH electrodes.
49
FY-81
-------
Title:
Antichollnesterase Insecticide Induced Pancreatitis—Chronic Studies
Principal Investigator:
Robert Gooddale
Institution:
University of
Minnesota
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
11 year) $75.038
EPA Project Number:
R808516
Accidental exposure to the organo-phosphate insecticide
Diasmion® is known to cause acute interstitial pancreatitis and
death from cholmergic crisis in man, dog and other domestic
animals The maximum tolerated bolus I V dose in dog is about
75 mg/kg in previous studies which were reported recently. The
purpose of the present project is to see if chronic exposure to
lower doses which do not cause overt symptoms or signs is
harmful to the pancreas In dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs,
graded doses from 1 to 25 mg. per kilo per day will be
administered S C. to establish the dose level which is tolerated
without significant weight loss or development of obvious
weakness.
Then chronic doses at that level will be given up to 12 weeks.
Small mini-infusion pumps will be implanted aseptically
subcutaneously for constant rate of administration of agent
Venous blood will be drawn periodically and the level of serum
chohnesterase depression will be measured. Serum amylase and
lipase levels will also be measured periodically Pancreata will be
removed at the end of the experiment for light and electron
microscopy. Focal acmar hyperplasia, neoplasia and pancreatitis
will be specifically looked for. Suitable controls, utilizing
infusions of solvent without Diazmon in normal animals will also
be used.
There is mounting experimental evidence that excessive
cholecystokmin and gastrin hormone levels stimulate pancreatic
growth and even cause neoplasia in some experimental animals.
It is possible that chronic cholmergic stimulation induced by
organophosphate insecticide may also cause pancreatic
hyperplasia or neoplasia or chronic pancreatitis. These
possibilities will be investigated under the conditions described
above
FY-81
50
-------
Title:
Competitive Adsorption of Trace Organics from Natural Waters by Activated Alumina
Principal Investigator:
Mriganka M. Ghosh
Institution:
University of
Missouri-Columbia
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $117,136
EPA Project Number:
Ft 809425
Many public water supplies in the U.S. contain arsenic and
selenium in excess of maximum contaminant levels (MCL)
established in the Safe Drinking Water Act Many of these water
supplies are located in small communities lacking elaborate
facilities Activated alumina seems to offer the most inexpensive
method for the removal of these toxic metals The objective of
the proposed research is to investigate the specific adsorption of
arsenic and selenium under competitive conditions, using both
batch slurry reactors and continuous flow columns The effect of
such parameters as pH, ionic strength, interfering ions such as
F", SOI Cl, HCOE, Ca++, Mg++, Fe*+, Si02 and natural organics on
the charge density and adsorption density of activated alumina
will be studied. Various regenerant chemicals such as HCI,
HjSCU, or NH3 will be studied in an effort to develop an optimum
regeneration scheme for alumina.
The project will begin with a literature survey of data on
arsenic and selenium in U S. waters, with particular emphasis
on their speciation Laboratory experiments on equilibrium
adsorption will be conducted using alpha and gamma-AI2O3
Initial studies will involve single solutes of either As(V) or Se(IV).
Data will be collected to determine kinetics of adsorption at
different pH levels. In each case, the charge density and pHzpc of
alumina will be determined using alkalimetry In next series of
equilibrium studies, mixtures of metals will be used to determine
competitive adsorption. Selected interfering ions will be tested in
single metal adsorption experiments to determine their inhibitory
effects, if any.
Phase two of the project will be devoted to column studies of
adsorption of As and Se on alumina. Standard models, such as
homogeneous surface diffusion model (HSDM) will be used to
predict solute breakthrough profiles Bisolute column runs will
reveal any "chromatographic shift" in breakthrough profiles
caused by competitive adsorption In phase three of the project,
experiments on the regeneration of spent alumina will be
conducted using as variables such items as required
concentration and bed volumes of caustic regenerant, and of
acid rinse. Percent recovery of sorptive capacity, elution loss and
change in surface properties of alumina will be monitored
51
FY-81
-------
Title:
Transmission Electron Microscope Studies of Lichens Exposed to Air Pollutants
Principal Investigator:
Sharon Eversman
Institution:
Montana State
University-Bozeman
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $23,457
EPA Project Number:
R808932
Objectives:
(1) Complete a series of transmission electron microscope
investigations of effects of four pollutant conditions SOz,
03, SOs/Oa combination, PAN.
(2) Correlate ultrastructural observations with recorded
pollutant effects on metabolism of six lichen species.
(3) Determine when ultrastructural repair occurs in light/dark
conditions
(4) Observe synergistic effects that might occur with SOz/Oa
combinations.
(5) Compare lichen responses with responses observed in two
grass species
Methodology
(1) Two lichens, Hypogymnia enteromopha and Parmelia
sulcata. were fumigated with PAN in chambers at the Air
Pollution Research Center, University of California-
Riverside Photosynthesis rates and distributional records
were determined: 14C method was used for photosynthesis
rates
(2) Two lichens, Parmelia caperata and Ubilicaria muhlenbergii,
were fumigated with SOz, Oa, and SOz/Oa fumigations at
various dosages, combinations, and time schedules
followed by different light and dark periods in growth
chambers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Photosynthetic
rates were determined by a I4C method.
(3) Two lichens, Usnea hirta and Parmkelia chlorochroa, were
fumigated with SOz in field conditions. Photosynthesis rates
(infrared gas analyzer), respiration rates (manometer),
plasmolysip rates of algal cells (light microscopy) and
external thallus conditions were recorded.
(4) Two grasses, Agropyron smithii and Koelena cnstata, were
collected from the same SOz field fumigation system as the
two preceding lichen samples. Leaf conditions and
physiological responses for the grasses were recorded.
(5) Usnea hirta and Parmelia chlorochroa lichen specimens
were collected 1 -2 km from two 350-megawatt coal-fired
power plants in Colstrip, Montana in 1979.
(6) All specimens were fixed and embedded immediately after
collection or upon receipt of specimens after treatment.
Standard procedures for electron microscope preparation
were followed' fixation in 3% glutaraldehyde and 1%
osmium tetroxide, dehydration in acetone series, and
embedding Spurr's resin.
(7) Quantitative estimates of ultrastructural changes are made
by counting numbers of plastoglobuli and pyrenoglobuli in
chloroplasts, measuring sizes of those same lipid bodies,
determining distances between thylakoid membranes,
counting and measuring sizes of starch grains in the
chloroplasts. These measurements are made on
electromicrographs.
FY-81
52
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Title:
Habitat Selection in Benthic Marine Invertebrates Relevant to Community Patterns Near
Waste Discharges
Principal Investigator:
J. Nybakken
Institution:
Moss Landing
Marine Laboratories
Project Period:
6 months
Budget:
(2 years) $143,377
EPA Project Number:
R808782
There is a general belief that benthic community changes near
marine waste discharges are related to pollutant tolerance The
most worrisome pollutants are heavy metals and certain
hydrocarbons However, the individual and synergistic effects of
these pollutants are confounded by the effects of organic
enrichment Unlike these chemical pollutants, properly managed
coastal enrichment may have positive environmental
consequences
A series of complementary field and laboratory experiments to
distinguish the community effects of organic enrichment from
heavy metal and hydrocarbon pollutants will be undertaken
These experiments primarily concern behavioral attraction or
avoidance to a modified sedimentary habitat
This study concerns habitat selection rather than survival
rates, which is the subject of most bioassay studies Many
animals may make choices that determine community patterns
before differential survival is relevant Once an individual settles,
survival is obviously critical
The experiments focus on species that represent the three
major components of community change around waste
discharges (1) a group of "weedy" species at the disturbance
center, (2) a group from the native assemblage with elevated
abundance at the disturbance edge, and (3) the native group of
species outside the zones of gross community change
It is hypothesized that the pollutant resistant concept is not
generally correct and that community patterns near waste
discharges are primarily linked to enrichment and habitat
selection. Similar patterns and processes may characterize
naturally enriched benthic communities as well.
53
FY-81
-------
Title:
Oxidation-Reduction Behavior of Chlorinated Dioxins on Paniculate Matter
Principal Investigator:
G. A. Eice man
Institution:
New Mexico
State University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(1 year) $34,431
EPA Project Number:
R809084
Polychlonnated dibenzo-p-dioxms (PCDD) are a series of
tncychc aromatic compounds containing one to eight chlorine
atoms Certain isomers of these chlorinated dioxms have been
associated with several threats to animal and human health and
the environment While well-recognized sources of chlorinated
dioxms in the environment are industrial wastes and release of
certain herbicides, chlorinated dioxms may also be released
through combustion processes including incineration of
municipal refuse. Although the origin of PCDD in fly ash from
municipal incinerators is uncertain, Towsend's theory has been
proposed to account for the distribution of isomer ratios in
paniculate matter which has been released into the atmosphere
for municipal and other incinerators.
The theory was developed from Townsend's observations that
distribution ratios of chlorinated dioxms (i.e , tetra to penta,
penta to hexa) were uniform among environmental samples for a
wide range of PCDD concentrations. An oxidation-reduction
model was proposed to account for these results including
reduced levels of lower chlorinated dioxms in particulate matter
which had been exposed to atmospheric oxidation. Townsend
also showed that conditions of incineration, not feedstock,
seemed to determine relative ratios of PCDD at the point of
source The practical implications for pollution abatement of
PCDD are enormous if these theories are correct For example,
changes in incineration parameters will not eliminate the
formation of T4CDD, but only control the absolute amounts
Alternately, if chlorinated dioxms actually undergo oxidation
processes on particulate matter, the addition of excess air with
hot particulate matter may greatly reduce the concentration of all
PCDD in incinerator emissions
Information and answers will be sought for the following
questions
(1) Are PCDD oxidized between temperatures of 60 and 300°C
on particulate matter (in this case, the finest sieve fraction
of fly ash from electrostatic precipitatorsp
(2) What are the products of the oxidation processs
(3) Do certain conditions promote oxidative destruction of
PCDD more than others and what are these conditions?
(4) Are PCDD reduced or chlorinated under certain conditions?
(5) Do values for chlorinated dioxm ratios quantitatively agree
with results from the studies of Townsend?
Research in this project includes the use of a reaction
chamber for modeling the behavior of PCDD on fly ash
Conditions of this reaction chamber may be closely controlled to
simulate conditions of emission plumes for this study. Conditions
such as gas composition, particulate temperature, residence
times for dioxms, and other will be varied Experimentally,
known amounts of dioxms are released onto fly ash at selected
temperatures for certain lengths of time The reaction is
quenched and products from the treatment process are analyzed
using analytical methods based on high resolution gas
chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography/mass
spectrometry(GC/MS) Initially, T4CDD and OCDD will be used
with atmospheric conditions using several air-helium ratios
After reactions using oxidative conditions are characterized,
results from using several HCI/helium and HCI/air/helium
mixtures will be examined
FY-81
54
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Title:
Enzyme Electrode Probes for Organohalogen Compounds
Principal Investigator:
George G Guilbault
Institution:
University of
New Orleans
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
n year) $51,774
EPA Project Number:
R808532
An immobilized enzyme electrode, specific for halomethanes
(chloroform, bromoform, dichloromethane, etc ) will be
developed, using an enzyme induced from a selected microbial
species, purified by electrophoresis, DEAE and affinity
chromatography, and chemically bound directly onto a chloride
or silver electrode A hydrophobic Celgard or Teflon-membrane
will be used to separate the enzyme layer from the media, thus
preventing halides (Cf, Br", F~) from penetrating the outer
membrane Only the small halomethanes will enter, be acted
upon by the immobilized enzyme layer to yield Cl~ or Br", which
will be detected by the base Cf (Ag) electrode
Investigations done by many researchers have revealed that
numerous microorganisms such as Red Algae, Fungi Fusanum
oxysporum, Aerobacter aerogenes, etc , are capable of
transforming organochlonne compounds through metabolic
pathways
The microbial species Pseudomonas putida has been selected
Its growth has been optimized by using a liquid media made up
of certain proportions of essential chemicals and nutrient
solutions The chloroform concentration has been increased in
subsequent growth trials A number of preliminary assays on
whole cell bacteria have been earned out to confirm that the
selected induced bacteria are quite capable of degrading the
halomethanes NBS microferm fermentor was used to optimize
mass culture of the bacteria in large quantities by means of
culture jar
The bacteria are being studied in order to proceed to the
fractionation and separation, isolation and purification, and
finally immobilization of the enzyme for the degradation of these
halomethanes
55
FY-81
-------
Title:
Comutagens in the Environment
Principal Investigator.
Toby G Rossman
Institution-
New York University
Medical Center
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $190,304
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808482
Experimental and epidemiological data suggest that some
agents can contribute to the development of human cancer in
subjects which have been exposed to very low levels of
carcinogens In some cases, the agent in question is not a
mutagen in any standard mutagenesis bioassay
Preliminary data is presented showing that two substances
produced as a result of fossil fuel combustion, arsenite and SC>2,
act as comutagens (enhancers of mutagenesis) Neither agent is
mutagenic itself under conditions used in these experiments, m
which there is low toxicity The comutagenic effect of S02 is
seen in both prokaryotic (E coll) and eukaryotic (Chinese
hamster V79) cells Both agents enhance UV-mduced
mutagenesis in E coli by a factor of eight- to ten-fold
The mechanisms of action of S02 and arsenite comutagenesis
will be determined Factors to be examined will include the role
of free radicals, possible inhibition of DNA repair and the nature
of mutagens with which these agents act as comutagens The
comutagenesis assay systems will be further developed along a
number of lines, including the use of human cell lines (normal
and xeroderma pimentosum), the use of bacterial mutants
deficient in a variety of repair pathways, the use of a variety of
chemical mutagens causing different types of DNA damage, and
the inclusion of rat liver S9 to metabolize possible comutagens
Agents to be examined as possible comutagens include
pyrene, fluoranthene, nitrites, nitrates, various halogenated
hydrocarbons, toluene, phenol and xylene Some of these agents
have already been identified as cocarcmogens
FY-81
56
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Title
Anaerobic Biodegradation of Toxic Aromatic Compounds
Principal Investigator- Hazardous aromatic hydrocarbons are principally destroyed in
Lily Y Young the environment by microbial action The aerobic mechanism,
though well understood, cannot account for the decomposition of
institution. these compounds under anaerobic conditions The proposed
New York University research intends to examine the molecular fate of monocyclic
Medical Center aromatic hydrocarbons with the following tasks
Project Period: (1) Determination of the rate and extent of biodegradation by
3 years strictly anaerobic microbial consortia for a selection of
compounds differing in ring substituent complexity
Budget: (2) Isolation and characterization of the maior species
(2 years) $166 266 responsible for the metabolic transformations
(3) Identification of the major intermediates formed during the
EPA Project Number. catabohc sequence for each compound Methodologies
R 809077 developed for this task include analyses by GC, HPLC, and
GC/MS procedures
(4) Development of a conceptual model for the anaerobic
degradation of this class of compounds which could aid in
the prediction of the fate of related toxic compounds
57 FY-81
-------
Title.
Airborne Toxic Substances and Airway Epithelial Function
Principal In ves tigato r:
ft Boucher
Institution'
University of North
Carolina-Chapel Hill
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $258,588
EPA Project Number:
R808753
Effects of inhaled agents on airway epithelial functions may
contribute to the pathophysiology of occupational lung diseases
We previously demonstrated active Na* absorption across human
and canine bronchial epithelium, in vitro, which may provide a
mechanism for the regulation of airway surface liquid volume In
the present experiments third to fifth generation canine bronchi
were mounted in Ussmg chambers and short circuited Ion fluxes
and bioelectric properties were monitored for 90 minutes before
addition of formaldehyde (F) After 60 minutes of lummal
exposure to 0 1, 0 3, 1 0 and 3 0 mM/L F, short circuit current
was reduced by 1 2, 21, 60, and 90%, while conductances
changed by -4, -14, -39 and -28%, respectively These changes
were poorly reversible and serosal exposure to 3 0 mM/L was
without effect Lummal exposure to 1 0 mM/L reduced Na*
absorptive flux from 3 02 to 2.52 and increased backflux from
1 51 to 2 21 ueq/cm2-hr Both unidirectional CT fluxes were
reduced from about 5 to 3 ueq/cm2-hr 14C-Mannitol
permeability was unchanged We suggest that the interaction of
F with the apical membrane of epithelial cells perturbed
transcellular ion flows CI" flows were diminished whereas
passive Na* flux increased Decreased Na= active flow implies an
additional action on the Na* transport process Preliminary
results suggest a similar pattern of effects on human bronchial
epithelium, in vitro These effects could increase airways liquid
in individuals exposed to formaldehyde vapors
FY-81
58
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Title:
Atmospheric Transformation and Bioactivity of Combustion from Residential Wood Stoves
Principal Investigators:
Richard M Kamens,
Mark D Sobsey
Institution:
University of North
Carolina-Chapel Hill
Project Period-
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $220,030
EPA Project Number-
ft 808112
The objective of this research is to characterize the
transformation processes and associated bioactivity of dilute
combustion products from commercially available residential
wood heaters in winter time atmospheres containing simulated
O3, HC and N0« pollution The relative importance of the already
identified pathways for polyaromatic hydrocarbon destruction on
soot particles (attack by light, Os, and other smog products) will
be assessed The biological mutagenicity of freshly diluted wood
emissions will also be compared to that of emissions which have
had an opportunity to age and react within an outdoor chamber
air parcel
Combustion products from a commercially available woodstove
will be injected and diluted into two outdoor smog chambers
This will permit the PAHs on soot particles to be exposed and
transformed under natural winter conditions One chamber will
be a control, containing only wood emissions in unpolluted air In
the other, soot will be exposed to light and dark and ambient
levels of Os, N02 and dilute smog Changes in 4-6 representative
PAHs will be monitored over the course of 4-8 hour experiments
The Ames bioassay test and other mutagenicity tests will be
used to measure the mutagenicity of the chamber soot particles
The Principal Investigator expects (1) to quantify the relative
importance of light, Os, and other radical sources on the
transformation of wood combustion PAHs on adsorbed soot, (2)
determine the extent of change in relative mutagenicity after
reaction with light, Os, N02, and dilute smog, and (3) produce a
complete data set which will include aromatic PAH
transformation, associated bioactivity, combustion conditions
and energy release rates from typical residential wood burners
and thus will be useful in evaluating the environmental and
energy impacts of increased wood burning
59
FY-81
-------
Title.
An In Situ Analyzer for Organic and Elemental Carbon in Ambient Aerosols
Principal Investigator-
James J Huntzicker
Institution:
Oregon Graduate
Center for Study
and Research
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $120.000
EPA Project Number.
R808087
An in situ instrument for the analysis of organic carbon and
elemental carbon in ambient aerosols will be developed This
instrument will be a modified version of the Oregon Graduate
Center laboratory organic and elemental carbon analyzer Fine
particle aerosol will be sampled through a virtual impactor head
or other size discriminator and collected on a glass fiber filter
located in the combustion zone of the carbon analyzer At the
end of the 30-mmute sampling period the organic and elemental
carbon concentrations will be measured by a combustion
process which involves volatilization of organic carbon at 600°C
in a helium atmosphere followed by combustion of elemental
carbon at 600°C in a 2% oxygen/98% helium atmosphere All
evolved carbon will be oxidized to CC>2, reduced to CH4, and
measured in a flame lonization detector. The transmission of 633
nm He-IMe laser light through the filter will be monitored
continuously throughout the sampling and analysis The
transmission data are used to correct for the pyrolytic conversion
of organic to elemental carbon which occurs during the organic
analysis The complete sampling and analytical cycle requires
about one hour
The instrument will be tested in both the laboratory and the
field for analytical efficiency, organic artifacts, and particle size
effects The first field test of the prototype instrument will take
place during the EPA Denver Haze Study in January 1 982 More
detailed field testing will be conducted m Portland, Oregon and
Pasadena, California The instrument will be operated in the field
in conjunction with other air quality monitors (e g ,
nephelometer, ozone monitor, etc ) and the data used to
investigate the question of secondary organic aerosols (i.e ,
organic aerosols formed as a result of atmospheric chemical
reactions)
It is anticipated that the hourly organic and elemental carbon
data coupled with meteorological and source emission data will
permit a more accurate assessment of the importance of
secondary organic aerosols than previously possible
FY-81
60
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Title:
Laboratory Investigation of Buoyant Emission Paniculate Matter
Principal Investigator-
James W Deardorff
Institution
Oregon State
University
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $138,256
EPA Project Number.
R808919
In this research, the dispersion of buoyant stack effluents into
the daytime mixed layer over simple terrain is modeled, using a
convectively mixed layer in the laboratory as the modeling
facility The method has previously been applied successfully to
model dispersion of non-buoyant stack effluents The main effect
of a mean wind, U, is simply modeled by replacing pollutant
travel time with downstream distance divided by U
The technique is to utilize fluorescent dye emitted from a
towed stack and optically activated by a laser beam directed
along the cross-plume direction When not illuminated, dyed
fluid along the optical line of sight to the beam is invisible and
does not greatly attenuate the signal, which is linear with
concentration over three decades of intensity
Mixed-layer scaling will be applied to all quantities to
determine how the (dimensionless) mean ground-level
concentration depends upon downstream distance and mean
wind, stack-effluent buoyancy, and initial angle of bendmg-over
of the plume The actual stack height will be modeled as 1/10
the mixed-layer height A characteristic value for the
dimensionless mixed-layer cappmg-mversion strength will be
modeled The emphasis will be on determining mean maximum
ground-level concentration and how it depends on the
meteorological and stack-effluent variables
Results should prove very useful in interpreting field
measurements downstream of a tall stack in the daytime even
over complex terrain Guidance is needed on what the expected
concentration distribution would be over simple terrain under a
given set of meteorological stack-effluent conditions so that
effects of complex terrain, in the daytime, can be distinguished
from effects of convective mixing and effluent buoyancy
61
FY-81
-------
Title
Effects of Pentava/ent Arsenica/s on Resistance of Mice to Salmonella Infect/on
Principal In vestigator
Frank W Judd,
Norman L Savage
Institution'
Pan American
University
Project Period
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $104,164
EPA Project Number
R807843
Arsenical compounds, especially pesticides, are widely and
frequently mdiscnmmantly used Non-target organisms including
man, and wild and domestic mammals are subject to
contamination by these compounds Many of the more subtle
biological effects of these compounds on non-target organisms
are poorly understood, particularly any alterations in the host's
infectious disease susceptibility and ability to resolve an
infectious disease Information has been published on viral
disease susceptibility, but no information is available on bacterial
disease susceptibility Since some arsenicals have been used in
treatment and prevention of certain bacterial diseases and it is
known that arsenicals may be toxic to soil bacteria as well as to
animals, it is possible that synergistic effects between
microorganisms, host and arsenicals may affect the process of
infection and subsequent disease progression in animals
exposed to arsenical compounds
The principal objective of this project is to evaluate the effects
of selected pentavalent arsenical compounds on the resistance
of albino mice to infection with Salmonella typhimunum
Subordinate objectives include a determination of the
importance of variation in concentration of the arsenicals, time
relationships of challenge with arsenicals and Salmonella, and
whether the exposure is acute or chronic Also, the
mechanism(s) of action of the arsenicals on the disease process
will be investigated
Four pentavalent arsenicals will be examined (monosodium
methanearsenate, cacodylic acid, sodium arsenate and arsanilic
acid) Salmonella typh/munum will be utilized as the infecting
agent Female, ICR Swiss mice will be used as subjects The
effects of arsenicals administered both acutely by stomach
intubation and chronically in the drinking water at times before,
simultaneous with, and after Salmonella i v inoculation will be
compared (based on the mortality rate and total deaths over 30
days following inoculation) with the development of the disease
administered orally (normal route) Controls will consist of
animals receiving water only, Salmonella only, and an arsenical
only
Those compounds and procedures producing significant
alterations in the progression of the salmonellosis will be
subjected to investigations to identify the mechamsm(s) of action
of the arsenicals Tissue levels of arsenic will be determined and
used m vitro with the bacterium to ascertain if these
concentrations are toxic to the bacterium Tissue concentrations
of baceria will be determined shortly after infection so as to
evaluate the effectiveness of the initial phagocytic capabilities of
the mice Tissue concentrations of bacteria will be determined
during the course of the disease as an indicator of the ability of
the mice to develop an immune response to resolve the infection
The potential alteration of macrophage function in arsenic
treated animals will be examined The development of the
immune status of mice receiving arsenicals will be determined
by immunizing groups of animals with killed vaccines (humoral
response) or sublethal doses of live cells (cell-mediated
response) Humoral protection is expected to be manifest as a
rapid clearance of bacteria from the blood Cell-mediated
protection is expected to result in a rapid clearance of organisms
from the spleen and liver Overall protection should result in
reduced mortality
FY-81
62
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Title:
Diagnosis and Prediction of Atmospheric Transport on Regional and Synoptic Scales Using a
Three-Dimensional Dynamic Model
Principal Investigator:
Thomas Warner
Institution.
Pennsylvania
State University
Project Period.
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $149,971
EPA Project Number.
R808610
The various facets of the proposed research all have the
common goal of providing a procedure whereby a three-
dimensional (3-D) dynamic model may be used to provide
meteorological data for atmospheric transport calculations on
the regional and synoptic scales The demand for improved
transport calculations arises because of the pressing scientific,
legal, and environmental problems that require a knowledge of
the path followed by pollution-laden air parcels as they move
from source to receptor However, no general procedure is
available for calculations of parcel trajectories that demonstrates
accuracy over a broad range of conditions
Many techniques exist, but most have limitations such as
being site-specific, being applicable under only certain
meteorological conditions or times of day, relying on the
synoptic-scale rawmsonde network for wind data or being
applicable to only specific levels in the atmosphere A procedure
that might happen to be relatively successful in some situations
provides very poor trajectory estimates in other situations It is
difficult to determine a priori which procedure will be best m a
given case Thus, the need for a general and reliable technique
for atmospheric transport computations is evident
In this program the Penn State 3-D mesoscale dynamic model
will be adapted so that it can be used to provide atmospheric
data on the regional or synoptic scale for short-, medium-, or
long-range transport calculations in the planetary boundary layer
or the free atmosphere, including the upper troposphere and
lower stratosphere It will be applicable under a wide range of
meteorological conditions as well as surface conditions that are
characterized by complex terrain and complicated land use
patterns After verifying model-predicted trajectories against
existing tetroon data, the model will be applied to a transport
problem involving complex terrain under stable conditions over
the eastern United States
63
FY-81
-------
Title:
Investigation of Polymerization of Xenobiotic Aromatic Compounds /e g.. Some Pesticides)
and Their Incorporation into Soil and Sediment Humus
Principal Investigator:
J-M Bollag
Institution:
Pennsylvania State
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
11 year) $69,022
EPA Project Number:
R808165
With the increasing use of pesticides and xenobiotics in nature
there has been a growing concern with regard to the fate of
these substances and their unintentional effects within the
environment. Within the last few years special consideration has
been given to the 'bond residue' problem, the formation of
molecules far more complex than the parent molecule. The
occurrence of this latter phenomenon in the soil environment,
where specific binding to organic matter to form highly esoteric
materials can occur, is of concern to us
Naturally occurring aromatic compounds are often complexed
or polymerized during humus formation by the activity of
phenoloxidases and other catalysts from soil, but little is known
about the activity of these catalysts on aromatic xenobiotics.
Therefore, it appears of great interest to focus attention on the
effect of the "polymerizing" enzymes and other soil catalysts on
the transformation of various pollutants One of the goals of this
research is to isolate and identify products of oxidative coupling
reactions of various pesticide intermediates and other
xenobiotics (halogenated phenols, various naphthols, substituted
anilines) with naturally occurring phenolic soil constituents
Until now the polymerizing activity was established under typical
laboratory conditions but now this observation should be
confirmed in natural environments It is also planned to develop
an assay in order to determine the polymerizing potential of soils
and sediments Such an assay could be very useful in screening
various environments for their possible 'binding' effect on
xenobiotics
Polymerization or condensation reactions involving xenobiotics
may lead to the formation of new chemicals whose impact on
the environment is unknown Even if these xenobiotics are
incorporated into natural complexes such as humus or
sediments, they present a source of concern as probable
environmental pollutants, since their later release from such
complexes is quite possible
FY-81
64
-------
Title:
Oxidation of Alkoxy Radicals
Principal Investigator:
Julian Heicklen
Institution:
Pennsylvania State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $159.893
EPA Project Number:
R808528
Alkoxy radicals are produced in the atmosphere from the
oxidation of hydrocarbons They can be removed by oxidation,
decomposition, or isomenzation The Principal Investigator
proposes to investigate the competition between the various
reactions paths to determine the appropriate rate coefficients as
a function of pressure and temperature from 25-1 50°C Also for
those alkoxy radicals that isomenze, the products and
mechanisms of the removal of the product radicals will be
investigated In addition the rate coefficient for CHsO oxidation
will be obtained by competition with the CH30 + N02 reaction,
since CH3O neither decomposes nor isomenzes below 150°C
The radicals will be generated by the photolysis of the
corresponding alkyl nitrates in the presence of NO and Oa
Products of the reaction will be measured by gas
chromatography The pertinent reactions are
ROIMO + H -RO+ NO
RO + NO - RONO (or R'O + HNO)
R0 + 02- R'O + H02
RO — not R'O
Rate=|R'0]~1 = (1 + k, [N0]/k2 [02] + k3/k2 [02])
so that plots of *|R'O)~1 vs [N0]/[02] at constant [02] or [02]"1 at
constant [NO] will give straight lines whose slope to intercept
ratios will give, respectively, ki/k2 and ka/k2
65
FY-81
-------
Title
Kinetics of Aromatic Combustion and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Formation in Liquid
Fuels
Principal Investigator-
Normand M
Laurendeau
Institution:
Purdue University
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
(2 year si $160,646
EPA Project Number-
R808672
New liquid fuels derived from coal or shale oil will have high
aromatic contents compared to petroleum-based fuels Little
information is available on the combustion kinetics of aromatics
As fuel aromaticity increases, formation of polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAH) and soot becomes more likely PAH
compounds may also be precursors of soot formation
The objective of the research is to determine reaction rates
and to identify reaction mechanisms for (1) the combustion of
aromatic fuels, and (2) the formation and destruction of
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) In this, the first phase
of an anticipated multiphase effort, we will investigate the
combustion kinetics of benzene Special attention will be given
to the influence of stoichiometry and temperature on combustion
rates, reaction mechanisms, PAH formation, PAH destruction
and soot formation
Small quantities of benzene will be added to a subatmospheric
(0 1 atm) hydrogen-oxygen flame stabilized on a flat flame
burner In this way, the well-known hydrogen-oxygen kinetics
can be used to isolate the effects of aromatic combustion
Expected ranges of temperature and stoichiometry are
1 200<2 0, respectively Concentration
profiles will be measured using a water-cooled quartz
microprobe and gas chromatography Radical profiles, such as
OH, will be measured via UV absorption and fluorescence
spectroscopy Measurement of selected PAH profiles will be
attempted by two methods (1) glass capillary gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry, and (2) laser-induced
fluorescence spectroscopy Reaction mechanisms will be
identified by comparing measured and predicted rates of
concentration profiles, especially those of carbon-containing
species
FY-81
66
-------
Title:
Mechanisms of Mutagenesis by Environmental Carcinogens
Principal Investigator:
Barbara H
Rosenberg
Institution:
Sloan-Kettering
Institute for Cancer
Research
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $215.157
EPA Project Number:
R809550
The major goal is to identify specific pathways of genetic
change which result from specific types of chemically-induced
lesions in DMA and which play an important role in
carcmogenesis
The principal cellular target of environmental carcinogens is
generally assumed to be DNA, and the mechanism of
carcmogenesis is thought to involve mutational events during
DNA replication and/or repair synthesis However, although it is
known that chemical carcinogens produce many types of lesions
in DNA, the relationship between these lesions and mutagenesis
has not been proven and the molecular events that may lead
from the responsible lesions to permanent genetic change are
unknown Moreover, it has not yet been established which DNA
lesions produced by a particular carcinogen and which types of
genetic change may be irrelevant and which may be responsible
for the production of cancer These questions are addressed in
this project, which is designed to study the molecular basis of
mutagenesis by environmental carcinogens
We propose to correlate the carcinogenic potentials of various
chemicals and the types of DNA adducts (or other lesions) they
form with the extent and nature of cellular repair of the lesions
and with the kinds of DNA replication defects that may occur
before or after repair
We will use the mammalian virus SV40, with its DNA modified
in vitro by treatment with the carcinogen The modified and
characterized SV40 DNA vector will then be introduced into
mammalian cells, where its replication will be studied under
conditions in which no transcription of the modified DNA is
necessary
67
FY-81
-------
Title.
Mutagenic DNA Modification
Principal Investigators'
Gerhard Stohrer,
Tsanyen Yang
Institution:
Sloan-Kettenng
Institute for Cancel-
Research
Project Period'
3 years
Budget:
(2 years] $136,929
EPA Project Number-
R808746
The aim of this research is to study mutation by environmental
carcinogens at the molecular level Adducts of carcinogens with
nucleotides will be introduced into a specific position of a phage
genome to study the mutagenic consequences of such a defined
lesion The site-specific mutagenesis system of Bhanot, Khan
and Chambers will be adapted to the study in the following way
(1) A primer will be synthesized and carcinogen adducts will be
introduced into the primer by the solid state phosphotnester
method of Gait et al An alternative will be the enzymatic
introduction by either E coli polymerase I or terminal
deoxynucleotide transferase Our preliminary experiments
with modified deoxynucleotidetriphosphates suggest that
the enzymatic route may be feasible The adducts will
initially include those of guanine with pyrenyl oxirane (an
analog of the environmental carcinogen
benzo(a)pyrenediolepoxide) and those of thyumme and
guanine with acetoxyxanth/ne
(2) In the enzymatic approach, a second primer, immediately
following the modified position will be synthesized It will be
hgated to the first primer carrying the lesion by DNA ligase
and the new prime, 1 + 2 purified
(3) The viral strand of 4> 174 am-3 will be used as template and
the am-3 site will by hybridized and saturated with
restriction fragment Z-7 prepared from wild-type DNA This
is designed largely as a means to eliminate the progeny of
the template strand
(4) Closed duplexes will be separated from remaining viral
strands by nitrocellulose rather than nuclease Si
To complement this site-specific mutagenesis system, a
traditional mutagenesis system based on in vitro treatment of
rephcative form * DNA with activated carcinogens and
transfection of spheroplasts is being developed in this lab This
system will study reversions and frame shift mutations at the
same locus as that used for the site-specific system While the
lesions will be characterized in the site-specific system, they will
contain the whole mixture of lesions produced in the traditional
way of mutagenizing DNA, some with known structures, others
yet unknown The two systems of mutagenesis outlined will
together recognize the most relevant lesions involved in
mutagenesis and carcmogenesis
FY-81
68
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Title
Atmospheric Chemistry of Natural Hydrocarbons
Principal In vestigator:
Richard Kenley
Institution:
SRI International
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $139,690
EPA Project Number.
R808110
This work is designed to help evaluate the relative importance
of urban and industrial hydrocarbons compared to natural
hydrocarbons in ozone development in parcels of polluted air
undergoing transport The reaction pathways and products of the
natural hydrocarbon-O3 system will be elucidated in laboratory
studies Dilute mixtures of 63, (0 1 -1 ppm) and the hydrocarbon
isoprene (1-10 ppm), or one of four terpenes to be studied
(-pinene, -pmene, limonene, and myrcene) will be mixed in a
glass reactor at 1 atm total pressure The decrease in
hydrocarbon will be monitored by gas chromatography The low
vapor pressure products will be used to enhance the sensitivity
of the method The OH-radical levels present will be determined
by isobutane (or cyclohexane) addition
Two methods will be used to study the OH-radical reaction of
the same hydrocarbons (1) a low pressure flow system, and (2) a
solar induced reaction at atmospheric pressure (5 liter bulb) In
the flow system, hydrogen atoms will be generated in a flow
discharge at N02 added downstream to generate OH-radicals H
+ N02+ OH + NO, HPLC, GC/MS, field lonization mass
spectroscopy, and FT-NMR will be employed to identify products
The products of the reactants studies at high pressure will be
identified by GC or LC techniques following extraction with a
suitable solvent
69
FY-81
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Title.
Generation Chemistry and Reactions of Chlorine Dioxide for Water Treatment
Principal Investigator.
Paul V Roberts
Institution.
Stanford University
Project Period'
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $144,414
EPA Project Number.
R808686
The use of chlorine dioxide for the disinfection of potable
water supplies offers some substantial advantages compared to
chlorine However, additional research on the chemistry of
chlorine dioxide is needed to improve the economy of generating
pure chlorine dioxide for water treatment This research will
identify experimentally the optimum reaction conditions for the
liquid-liquid and the gas-liquid chlonne-chlonte reactions This
information is a prerequisite for designing a chlorine dioxide
generation system utilizing either of these reactions
This research will also promote understanding of the behavior
of chlorine dioxide added to representative water supplies and
will identify and quantify the inorganic end products of chlorine
dioxide These data are required to complement the results of
lexicological studies of chlorine dioxide and its inorganic by-
products so that the health effects of chlorine dioxide can be
intelligently assessed
A possible application of this research is the development of a
chlorine dioxide generation process suitable for water treatment
which achieves a high yield of virtually pure chlorine dioxide
from chlorine and sodium chlorite, without significant amounts
of either excess chlorine, unreacted chlorite, or undesirable
chlorate byproduct being present in the reactor product
The specific objectives are
(1) To evaluate the available information concerning the
chemistry of chlorine dioxide generation by the chlonne-
chlonte process, and the behavior of the final product in
aqueous solution
(2) To determine the stoichiometry and yield of the chlonne-
chlonte reaction in aqueous solution as a function of
a the absolute concentrations of the reactants chlorite and
chlorine
b the ratios of reactant concentrations
c the speciation of the reactant chlorine CI2, HOCI, and
ocr
(3) To determine the stoichiometry, kinetics, and yield for two-
phase gaseous chlorine-aqueous chlorite reaction as a
function of
a the absolute concentration of aqueous phase chlorite
b the mole fraction chlorine in the gaseous phase
c the ratio of reactants chlorine and chlorite in the reaction
zone
d the pH of the liquid phase
(4) To determine the range of concentrations of chlorine
species to be expected in water supplies treated with
chlorine dioxide generated by the chlorme-chlonte reaction
FY-81
70
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Title:
The Nitella Meadow in Clear. Oligotrophic Lakes Function and Vulnerability to Shading
Principal Investigator:
Raymond G Stross
Institution-
State University of
New York at Albany
Project Period.
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $47,792
EPA Project Number-
Ft 808537
The primary goal of the research is to discover the mechanism
of depth zonation in the deep dwelling charophyte, Nitella
flexalis (L) Ag Preliminary study has shown that density of
shoots and boundaries of the meadow may be determined by
separate factors of the environment The first hypothesis to be
developed is that light, acting through a photomorphogenetic
receptor, may determine the lower boundary The hypothesis is
cast for both field and laboratory investigation
Underwater spotlights, equipped with colored filter have been
installed in Lake George, New York, where a vast underwater
meadow of Nitella with sharp lower boundaries exists.The light
beams are trained on the lake bottom immediately below the
lower boundary of the meadow They are intended to supplement
ambient light in specific wavebands Five treatments without
replication are contained in the first series red, green, blue, blue
plus red, and a white light control Success will be determined by
germination and subsequent development of shoots of Nitella,
within the beams of light Both oospores and vegetative shoots
will be deposited in special containers within the beams to serve
as a source of propagules Since the sediments in the study area
are covered with a fishmoss, Dicotomosiphon tuberosus, the
propagules of Nitella will be tested both in contact with and
isolated from the fishmoss Evaluation will be conducted from
photographs taken of the test sites with the aid of SCUBA at
periodic intervals An additional control will consist of
transporting a section of the Nitella meadow to locations within
and outside of the light beams for the purpose of measuring
rates of elongation relative to those inside the meadow The rate
of recolonization within the meadow is being measured
Permanent quandrats have been installed and the shoots have
been removed from one-half of each quandrat
The basis for a photomorphogenetic switch mechanism as a
determinant of the lower boundary is also being investigated in
the laboratory with oospores and later with the nodal-cell
propagules The question being asked, is light essential to
activation of germination and is light necessary for
differentiation of the larval plant (protonema) into shoot and
rhizoid?
Shoots containing ripening oospores were transferred from
the Nitella meadow into Lake George to dim light (1 -3/j Em x /j~2)
at July photophases and at 1 5°C After falling into the
substratum the oospores were harvested and set into a series of
experiments designed to determine the effect of stratification,
photopenod, substratum, and organic extract on the capacity to
germinate If protracted incubation at low temperature and in the
dark will render the oospore ready for activation, the follow-up
experiments will be to determine whether light is essential for
both activation and later differentiation of the germlmg Fluence
rate, wavelength and duration of light will be the primary
variables The requirements for development of ooospore and
vegetative nodal cells will be compared
Several othep objectives are underway or are anticipated The
second objective is to describe the annual cycle of Nitella m Lake
George and to simulate it m the laboratory, including fruiting
(oospore formation) and post fruiting regeneration
Objective 3 is to compare the spectral quality and fluence rates
of light with filters and a quantum sensor (Licor) at the lower
boundaries of Nitella meadows m New York State
71
FY-81
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Objective 4 will attempt to determine the significance of the
Nitella meadows as a phosphate sink The first experiments are
designed to discriminate between the water and the sediments
as the source of phosphate for the growing shoots
FY-81
-------
Title:
Insoluble Polymeric Contact Disinfectants for Small Water Treatment Systems
Principal Investigator:
Gilbert E Janauer
Institution.
State University of
New York-
Binghamton
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $138,144
EPA Project Number-
R808265
The primary objective of the proposed research is to explore
further a new approach to water disinfection, conceived in the
laboratory of the Principal Investigator, to the point of making it
feasible as an effective, maintenance-free method applicable to
diverse small water treatment systems in the United States The
entire treatment will consist essentially of a single passage of
natural (surface or well) water through a column or cartridge at
the pomt-of-use, although other configurations (e g , contact in
storage tanks) appear promising also The materials to be used—
at the focal point of this research—are Insoluble Polymeric
Contact Disinfectants (IPCD) They resemble in their general
properties conventional ion exchange resins, but carry very high
concentrations of animicrobial quaternary ammonium groups
such as dodecyl ("Resin 12"), tetradecyl ("Resin 14"), or other
suitable functions permanently attached to a stable, crosslmked
polymer backbone Efficacy against gram-positive and gram-
negative bacteria, against several viruses, fungi, and algae has
already been established in the laboratories of the Principal
Investigator, but a number of intermediate research objectives
must be attained in order to develop a practical method
Standard procedures are to be finalized which permit
quantitative comparison among different IPCD regarding their
potency to disinfect, under real-life conditions, when compared
with classical, soluble water disinfectants (e g , iodine) The
"best" IPCD with respect to contact time (flow-rate), disinfectant
capacity (i e , total microorganisms disinfected before viable
cells appear in effluent) as a function of pH, BOD, volume
treated, resistance to water hardness and fouling by common
trace organics, and ease of regeneration need to be determined
before systemic testing toward a pre-prototype can be begun
The quality of treated water emerging from IPCD beds is to be
assured by analysis for cell lysis products and any other potential
contaminants at below "safe" levels Physical-chemical and
structural characterization of currently available IPCD resins is to
be completed, and—based on these results, plus certain
fundamental and practical considerations—new IPCDs with,
possibly, even better performance are to be synthesized The
mechanism of disinfection action should be studied, because
even a partial understanding will aid in the design of superior
IPCDs (e g , by exploiting potential synergistic effects) The
anticipated disinfectant action against protozoa is to be tested
also Finally, a simple device—such as being used in household
water treatment units—is to be adapted for actual field tests
The microbiological methods used are standard or
straightforward except for the comparative-efficacy protocol to
be developed which may be based on a "rate-of-kill" approach
similar to that outlined by Isquith et al Characterization of IPCD
materials will be carried out by classical methods (capacity,
elemental analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and by IR and
NMR spectroscopy Treated water will be analyzed by GC-MS
and, possibly, HPLC following preconcentration Synthetic
methods will be essentially those employed in conventional ion
exchange resin synthesis except for surfactants used, and
control of temperature and solvent which appear to be critical
73
FY-81
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Title
Effect of Pollutant Interaction on Environmental Transfer and Distribution
Principal Investigator.
Su/it Banerjee
Institution.
Syracuse Research
Corporation
Project Period-
2 years
Budget:
12 years} $120,383
EPA Project Number:
R808613
The objective of this research is to measure the solubilities
and bioconcentration factors of various chlorobenzene mixtures
in fish It is anticipated that the solubilities of components in a
mixture will be progressively diminished as the complexity of the
mixture increases Variations will be quantified and an attempt
will be made to rationalize them with the assistance of various
theoretical models Finally, the bioconcentration in fish of
several mixtures of different concentrations will be measured in
order to determine whether a similar depression occurs in
mixtures
A goal of this project is to demonstrate that environmental
assessment based on individual compounds is erroneous, and
that mixtures of chemicals must be considered as they occur in
the environment It is anticipated that, for the most part, the
research will demonstrate that mixtures of chemicals are less
hazardous than would be expected from consideration of their
components In this event, the research will be a step towards
reducing the cost of regulation
FY-81
74
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Title:
Investigations of the Effects of 20 Priority Pollutants on the Bacterial Disease Resistance of
Rainbow Trout
Principal Investigator:
Richard H Sugatt
Institution:
Syracuse Research
Corporation
Project Period:
J year
Budget:
(1 year/ $38.940
EPA Project Number:
R809004
Evidence has accumulated that acute or chronic sublethal
exposure to water pollutants may lower the resistance of fish to
infectious disease In addition, there is some evidence that
disease resistance rnay be as sensitive as chronic survival,
growth or reproduction as an indicator of sublethal toxicity for
some toxicants
The mam objective of the research program is to determine the
effects of acute sublethal exposure to 20 priority pollutants
(metal compounds, pesticides, synthetic organic chemicals,
energy-related hydrocarbons) on the disease resistance of
rainbow trout (Salmo gairdnen) against a facultative bacterial
fish pathogen (Aeromonas hydrophila) Other objectives of the
research program are to determine the static 96-hour LCso of
these priority pollutants, to develop a reproducible test system
which can be used in conjunction with routine acute toxicity
tests to measure the effects of acute sublethal pollutant
exposure on the disease resistance of fish, and to assess the
sensitivity of this test system as an indicator of sublethal toxicity
by determining whether disease resistance is affected at
exposure concentrations lower than the LC5o for a wide variety of
pollutants
The general methodological approach is to expose groups of
trout to a range of test chemical concentrations (designed to
include the 96-hour LC50) under static exposure conditions, and
then to compare the disease resistance of surviving fish at each
toxicant concentration with that of unexposed control fish by
exposing all groups to bacteria The 96-hour LC5o will be
determined according to standard methods recommended by
EPA and ASTM, using duplicate groups of 20 trout at each
toxicant concentration and control At the end of the four-day
exposure period, all tanks will receive clean flowing water to
remove the toxicant. The water will be shut off and one of the
duplicate groups at each toxicant concentration and control will
be challenged by adding bacteria directly to the water After 30
minutes, the water will be turned back on The unchallenged
duplicates will serve as additional controls to account for delayed
toxicant-induced mortality Disease mortality and toxicant-
induced delayed mortality will be determined for an additional
week, during which time all groups of fish will be fed and
maintained under flow-through conditions
This research will serve to assess the potential impact of 20
priority pollutants on fish disease resistance and will establish
96-hour LCso values for the test compounds, many of which have
not been determined previously with rainbow trout In addition,
this research may provide a standardized and ecologically
realistic sublethal effects testing procedure which can be used to
enhance the toxicological information obtained from routine
acute toxicity tests at little additional cost
75
FY-81
-------
Title:
Effect of Environmental Variables on PCB Biodegradation
Principal In vestiga tors:
G S Sayler.
R Pagni,
R Bryant
Institution-
University of
Tennessee
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) SI40.000
EPA Project Number:
R808457
This investigation seeks to determine the interrelationships
among biotic and abiotic factors contributing to the uptake and
degradation of polychlormated biphenyls (PCBs) by natural
bacterial populations The goal of this investigation is to provide
needed information to develop a predictive model for assessing
the environmental fate of biorefractile contaminants
The specific objectives of this research are
(1) To determine the kinetics of PCB photodecomposition in
natural surface water
(2) To determine the rate and mechanisms of PCB
accumulation and biotransformation by natural microbial
populations
(3) To evaluate synergistic effects of photodecomposition and
biotransformation on the environmental fate of PCB
(4) To evaluate the role of dissolved organic matter, dissolved
oxygen, particle surfaces, and temperature on modulating
the environmental fate of PCB and the lexicological
significance of PCB transformation products
The methods used in this investigation include cultivation of
genobiotic and natural bacterial populations in the presence and
absence of photosensitized, pure or mixed, 14C-labeled PCB
cogeners Following separation of the bacterial population from
the aqueous media, 14C-PCB accumulated by bacteria is
quantitated by liquid scintillation spectrometry The aqueous
media are extracted with organic solvents and the extracts are
analyzed by co-chromatographic, gas-liquid and high
performance liquid chromatography techniques, and mass
spectrometry to isolate, quantitate and identify the parent
substrate and transformation products Transformation products
are evaluated for lexicological significance using bacterial and
mammalian mulagenesis assays The role of environmenlal
variables in modulaling ihe fale of PCB is assessed by
manipulalmg expenmenlal variables in laboralory cullivalion and
microcosm expenmenlalion
FY-81
76
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Title:
The Effect of Exposure to Texas Gulf Coast Air Pollution in Asthmatics
Principal In vestigator:
Alfonso H Holguin
Institution:
University of
Texas, Health
Science Center at
Houston
Project Period:
17 months
Budget:
(1 year) $901,736
EPA Project Number:
ft 808738
Several epidemiologic studies have demonstrated that
increased concentrations of several types of ambient pollutants,
notably ozone, have been associated with an increased number
of asthmatic attacks, or with an increase in the severity of
attacks Since the Texas Gulf Coast area not only experiences
high but variable levels of many types of pollution, an unusual
opportunity is provided to compare changes in asthma status
with changes in the pollution level and composition of the
ambient air This study has been designed to permit investigators
to detect associations between changes in the biomedical status
of asthmatic subjects with changes m environmental factors that
include pollutants and meteorologic variables
Daily symptomatology, lung function, and medication use were
measured in a selected group of asthmatics in Houston during
the summer of 1981 Concurrently, levels of air pollutants to
which the asthmatics were exposed were recorded
The data collection phase generated two major data sets' (1)
biomedical data and (2) air monitoring data
(1) Biomedical Data Fifty-two physician-diagnosed asthmatics,
aged seven years and older, participated in a six-month
study One-half resided in one of the study areas, the other
one-half in the other study areas The period of observation
chosen was that of highest expected ozon,e concentrations,
May through October
Each participant maintained two log forms each day, covering
a 12-hour period Information gathered on the logs included
medication use, subjective symptomatology, activities, and any
episodes of respiratory distress requiring instructions and/or
assistance from a physician The subjects use Mini-Wright Peak
Flow Meters to measure and record the results of three
successive trials done when completing their log forms Peak
flow meters were calibrated weekly, and the participants
questioned to determine any changes in residence or workplace
or physiological state which might affect their asthma
(2) Air Monitoring Data A fully-instrumented fixed-site air
monitoring station was located at the center of each study
area The fixed sites sequential integrated sampling was
performed for total suspended participates, mhalable
particulates, aldehydes, and aeroallergens In addition,
paniculate filters were routinely analyzed for sulfate,
nitrate, and trace elements Special samplings were
performed on a regular basis for the determination of
aerosol acid and carbon content
A mobile van, equipped with the same monitoring
instrumentation as the fixed site monitoring station, was
employed to measure indoor and outdoor pollutant levels in a
representative sample of the asthmatics' homes Week-
long integrated estimates of personal exposure to nitrogen
dioxide and formaldehyde were obtained by having the subjects
wear small passive diffusion badges Exposure to respirable
paniculate and ozone were periodically measured by technicians
with portable monitors accompanying the study participants
through their daily routines
77
FY-81
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Associations between health effects observed, the biomedical
data and levels of selected pollutants are currently being
investigated, first using single pollutants, and then employing
pollutants in combination
FY-81 78
-------
Title:
Cytogenic Effects of Chemical Mutagens on Spermatogenesis
Principal Investigator:
T. C Hsu
Institution:
University of
Texas Systems
Cancer Center
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $414.744
EPA Project Number:
R808582
There are two major types of environmental mutagens (1)
those which cause DMA damage and mutations (mutagens) and
chromosome breakage (clastogens), and (2) those which
interfere with cell division mechanisms (mitotic poisons) A
variety of test protocols have been developed for the former,
from microorganisms to experimental animals in vivo However,
tesf systems for the latter have been deficient
Regular cell division in eukaryotes distribute the genetic
material (chromosomes) equally from a mother cell to the
daughter cells Many cellular organelles are involved, including
the spindle (microtubules), the centnoles, the kinetochores, and
the cytokmetic mechanisms Abnormalities occurring in any of
these structures may lead to polyploidization and
aneuploidization In view of the occurrence of aneuploid
individuals in the human population and the preponderence of
aneuplondy in cancer cells, this class of genotoxic substances
should be vigorously tested This project proposes to develop
cytogenetic test systems using cells of mammalian and
nonmammalian materials.
Known and suspected mitotic poisons will be tested in the
following materials
(1) Laboratory mice. The mice will receive intrapentoneal
injections of the test compound, and be sacrificed various
days postinjection Bone marrow and testes will be procured
for cytogenetic preparations to study divisional anomalies
and aneuploidy, if any The testicular material is more
important because the end product of gametogenesis
represent the only link between parents and offspring
Major target cells for scrutiny include metaphase I,
metaphase II, and spermatid development
(2) Other test systems using insects (grasshopper embryos and
cockroach testes) are being developed because these
systems show promise
79
FY-81
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Title:
Determination of Nekton Community Structure in Shallow Marsh Habitats
Principal In vestigator:
Michael Weinstem
Institution:
Virginia
Commonwealth
University
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $47,393
EPA Project Number'
R808707
This research attempts to assess the role of tidal creeks in the
production of estuarme fish and shellfish important to man—
within the framework of community structure and function
General objectives of the program include
(1) Determining how food resources are partitioned within the
creeks
(2) Determining how space is utilized in these habitats
(3) Determining periods of residency and population turnover
rates for individual species
(4) Estimating the relative contributions to secondary
productivity of brackish and high salinity tidal creeks
(5) Assessing the relative roles, as primary nurseries, of marsh
creeks and seagrass meadows
The early life stages of fish and shellfish will be collected from
two well-defined tidal creeks in different salinity regimes These
creeks will be small enough to allow them to be collected
relatively intensively along their length A multiple gear
approach is proposed for this study with a uniform effort
distributed in each creek to allow direct comparisons between
areas The primary sampling methods will consist of replicate
trawls of a semi-balloon otter trawl and replicate tosses of a
modified Wegener ring (in the narrow, upper creeks) For each
monthly (or seasonal semimonthly) collection pertinent water
quality data will be determined
Gut contents of randomly selected subsamples of individual
species will be identified in the laboratory and several methods
will be used to record these data including enumeration,
biovolume and dry weight measurements and several indices or
combinations thereof will be used to express the results The
composition of all collections will be recorded (species and
abundance) and the data compared between creeks, among sites
within creeks and among seasons in a factorial design These
data are also amenable to several community analysis
procedures
Population dynamics of selected species also will be examined
via an intensive marking program utilizing "sandblasting" with
fluorescent pigments Production estimates for these same
species will be derived from both the marking study and the
overall sampling program
FY-81
80
-------
Title
Cellular Effects of Radlofrequency Radiation
Principal Investigator.
S F Cleary
Institution.
Medical College
of Virginia
Project Period'
3 years
Budget:
(3 years) $192,433
EPA Project Number.
Ft 8086 77
The objective of this investigation is to determine the effects of
radlofrequency radiation (RF) in the frequency range of 1 00-200
MHz on specific cell functions in vitro and to ascertain the extent
to which RF-mduced functional alterations are reversible (i e ,
repairable) Studies are being conducted on mammalian blood
cells (erythrocytes, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and
lymphocytes), transformed neural cells cultures (ghoma and
neuroblastoma) and normal (untransformed) diploid human
embryo fibroblasts The specific cell functions being investigated
include cell morphology, surface characteristics, viability,
plasma membrane cation permeability (K+, Na\ Ca*+),
prohferative response, phagocytosis and transmembrane
potential A long-range objective of this investigation is to
provide insight regarding the mechanisms of interaction of RF
radiation with cells that results in such functional and/or
structural alterations
Cells will be exposed to RF radiation in coaxial transmission
line cell culture sample holder and heat exchanger Exposures
will be at constant, controlled temperatures at field strengths of
up to 30V/cm Exposure effects of mammalian blood cells in
suspension and cultured neural cells (rat ghoma C6 and mouse
neuroblastoma NB2A) and fibroblasts will be determined as a
function of RF frequency, intensity, amplitude-modulation,
exposure duration, temperature, dosage mode, and cell density
81
FY-81
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Title.
Investigation of the Transport and Diffusion of Pollutants in Complex Terrain Using a
Numerical Mesoscale Model
Principal In vestigator:
R Pielke
Institution:
University of
Virginia
Project Period'
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $70,607
EPA Project Number.
R 807813
The overall objective of this research project is to utilize a
primitive equation mesoscale model to simulate the atmospheric
flow patterns induced by complex terrain and examine the
impact these flow regimes have on the transport and diffusion of
air pollutants A more specific objective is to apply the mesoscale
model research to EPA's planned field program for terrain
impaction
As part of the overall objective, a detailed evaluation of the
model-predicted thermal circulations will be made against
available experimental data Model velocities, scales and timing
will be compared to experimental values Recently available
detailed observations using tethered balloons may be quite
useful in evaluating the vertical structure of the flow
The Lagrangian conditioned particle scheme for point sources
of pollution will be tested further Additional experiments will be
made to examine the accuracy of current methods for the
extraction of the turbulent parameters, (a)x, (cr)u,» from the
exchange coefficients produced by the mesoscale model New
information on turbulent scales and boundary layer structure in
complex terrain will be useful for model validation and model
parameterization of length scales
Using the Lagrangian particle model two and three-
dimensional mesoscale model runs will be made for idealized
terrain obstacles Particle puffs from various heights will be
released so as to encounter the terrain obstacle The role of wind
shear and the influence of the turbulent boundary layer
developing over the terrain obstacle on particle dispersion will be
investigated
Some resources will continue to be given to improvement of
the mesoscale model specifically in the area of the
parameterization of turbulent exchange processes Numerical
improvements in the mesoscale model and efficiency of the
computational processes will also be given some attention
Computational costs can undoubtedly be reduced by some
restructuring of the model code Although the areas to be given
attention will depend upon problems encountered and by
advancements made by other members of the research group at
the University of Virginia, some possible candidates for
improvement are radiative boundary conditions, meshed grids
(as opposed to current model stretched grids), simplifications to
the surface energy budget, and modified spline advection
techniques Depending on the progress of the project, an
investigation of the scales to which the hydrostatic model is valid
under stable conditions may be carried out
FY-81
82
-------
Title.
An Atmospheric Tracer Investigation of Flow and Dispersion Near an Isolated Building
Principal Investigators:
Brian Lamb,
Elmer Robinson
Institution:
Washington State
University
Project Period:
/ year
Budget:
(1 year) $52.357
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808446
The dispersion of pollutants released from buildings and the
turbulence patterns of the atmosphere near buildings will be
investigated by performing a series of atmospheric tracer
experiments around an isolated industrial building Continuous
meteorological measurements in the prevailing upwind and
downwind sectors will be conducted throughout the study
period. During typical tracer tests, one tracer (CBrF3) will be
released upwind of the building m the undisturbed flow region
while a second tracer (SF6) is released from the roof of the
building into the disturbed flow region downwind of the building
Comparison of horizontal and vertical dispersion rates for the
undisturbed plume and the disturbed plume will allow the effects
of the building-generated turbulence to be separated from the
effects of natural atmospheric turbulence upon plume
dispersion The tracer data will be used to verify results from
similar scale-model wind tunnel studies and to test the validity of
current industrial source dispersion models This field
investigation will provide further data for studying relationships
among building dimensions, recirculation cavity dimensions,
atmospheric turbulence levels, and pollutant concentration fields
near the building
83
FY-81
-------
Title
Stability Classifications for Air Pollution Dispersion Models
Principal Investigator
Elmer Robinson
Institution.
Washington State
University
Project Period.
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $108,069
EPA Project Number
R808702
The objective of this research study is the development of a
revised procedure to use in order to estimate the stability
categories that are necessary inputs to air pollutant transport
and diffusion models These revised procedures should make use
of standard National Weather Service observational data so that
they can be used as easily as currently used methods developed
by Pasquill in 1961 and Turner in 1964 and which are now
incorporated in the stability climatology computer program
STAR
The problem with the STAR-type data, as identified by a
number of investigators, is inappropriate stability identification
under conditions of strong solar radiation and wind The present
research program hopes to address this situation by considering
additional data inputs such as a temperature function
The research plan includes verification programs in which any
new stability identification procedure could be compared in
terms of performance with the STAR system and other currently
available techniques
FY-81
84
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Title
Toxicant Removal in Submerged Media Anaerobic Reactors Processing Industrial Waste
Principal Investigators.
John F Ferguson,
Mark M Benjamin
Institution
University of
Washington
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $153,963
EPA Project Number-
R808675
The use of the high-rate anaerobic treatment of waste streams
from the pulp and paper industry will be demonstrated Kraft
digester condensates, thermomechamcal pulping effluents, and
bleach plant effluents will be treated in pilot-scale reactors
These wastes are particularly suited to anaerobic waste
treatment due to their high concentrations of anaerobically
biodegradable materials The relationship between performance,
degradable and non-degradable organics, detention time, and
process loading will be assessed in a series of steady state tests
However, they also contain a number of compounds that may be
toxic to methanogenic cultures These compounds may inhibit
methanogenesis initially, but acclimation is expected Their
removal by processes leading to destruction is also expected
The study will assess the fate of a number of potentially toxic,
substituted aromatic compounds in anaerobic processes The
toxicity, biodegradabihty, volatilization and sorption of these
compounds will be determined in pilot-scale reactors Carbon-14
labeling and gas chromatography will be used to trace the
compounds of study through the anaerobic digestion process
These tests will also be used to relate structure and substitution
to fate in the anaerobic process GC/MSA analyses will also be
used to survey these waste streams and assess treatment
performance with respect to removal of certain trace
constituents
85
FY-81
-------
Title
Systemic and Cardiovascular Effects of Chronic Barium Ingestion
Principal In vestigator
H Mitchell Perry, Jr
Institution
Washington
University-School of
Medicine
Project Period
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $160.505
EPA Project Number
R 8097 75
Measurable barium is present in more tban 99% of water
supplies m the United States The "maximum permissible
concentration" is 1 milligram per liter Areas exist in Illinois,
Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and New Mexico where the
concentration is ten times this high A recent retrospective
epidemiological study suggests that high barium concentration
(1 1 to 10 0 ppm barium) in the drinking water of certain Illinois
communities may be related to the significantly higher
cardiovascular mortality rate in these communities from 1 971
through 1975
The barium ion causes intense stimulation of muscle, both
smooth and striated Cardiovascular effects include arrhythmia,
spasm of artenolar musculature, and arterial hypertension A
unique feature of acute barium toxicity is the marked increase in
mtracellular potassium and dramatic hypkalemia
Prior in vitro work has demonstrated that spirally-cut rabbit
aorta contracts in response to varying concentrations of banum
and of several other vasoactive metals In vivo studies have
observed a marked pressor effect m rats from mtra-artenally
injected barium, with lesser effects from other vasoactive trace
metals
The present proposal is designed to examine physiologic,
metabolic, and morphologic changes resulting from chronic
exposure to ingested barium in a search for evidence of overt or
latent health effects associated with barium
Weanling Long-Evans rats will be maintained in "low
contamination" animal facilities They will be individually
weighed monthly for four months and then bimonthly At 1, 2, 4,
8, 1 2 and 16 months blood pressure will be measured At 1, 2,
and 1 6 months, one-third of the rats will be sacrificed At
sacrifice, His bundle electrograms will be obtained, and
myocardial contractility measured In addition, hematocrit and
plasma electrolytes, organ weight and histology, and tissue
concentrations of Ba, Ca, Mg, Na, K (and Cd or Pb when
appropriate) will be obtained, finally plasma epinephrme and
norepmephrine will be estimated in one-half of the animals
FY-81
86
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Title.
Removal of SOs with Ferric Ion as a Catalyst
Principal Investigator.
Eung Ha Cho
Institution.
West Virginia
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $57,032
EPA Project Number.
R809597
The objective of this research is to investigate the details of
the mechanism and the kinetics of the S02 removal reaction
using ferric ion as a catalyst The effect of O2 on the catalytic
action will be thoroughly studied Also, the kinetic data of the
reaction will be analyzed according to hydrodynamical theory
The results of the experimental runs will be analyzed to yield
information as to the proposed process effectiveness The
practical application of this system will also be assessed
The research effort on the 862 removal will be divided into two
major sections (1) the catalysis study, and (2) kinetic study The
experimental apparatus for the catalysis study will consist of a
one-liter capacity reactor, temperature controller, and reflux
condenser Experimental variables to be applied for this system
are concentration of ferric ion, solution pH, concentrations of
SOj and Oj in the gas stream, temperature, flow rate, and
stirring speed The experimental data will be analyzed to yield
information on the catalytic mechanism of ferric ion in the
reaction
The kinetic studies will be carried out in a single drop reaction
cell The apparatus will consist of a reaction cell, an orifice for
bubble formation at the bottom of the cell, SOs and 62 gas tanks
and its channel connected with the orifice and an S02 analyzer
connected with the top of the reaction cell The experiments will
be designed so that the kinetics of the removal could be
investigated with the rising drop Experimental variables to be
applied for this system are concentrations of S02 and 02 in the
gas phase, concentration of ferric ion, bubble size, contact time,
and solution pH The results will be analyzed according to the
mass transfer models based on the hydrodynamics of the
system
87
FY-81
-------
Title.
The Pathology and Microbiological and Integrated Control of Eurasian Watermi/fo/f in
Relation to Water Quality
Principal Investigator
John H Andrews
Institution
University of
Wisconsin-Madison
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $136,985
EPA Project Number
R807127
Eurasian watermilfoil (Mynophylum spicatum L ), a submersed
aquatic angiosperm, is an aggressive invader that is currently
causing severe problems in many regions of the United States
due to its high reproductive capacity and extraordinary
competitive ability The main problems that arise from disruption
of the aquatic plant community are impeded water flow,
interference with navigation or recreation, clogging of water
intake structures, and deleterious effects of decaying plant parts
on water quality Conventional control methods, including
mechanical and chemical approaches, have been expensive and
only partly successful To surmount these difficulties,
microbiological and integrated control of the weed will be
attempted by manipulation of normally occurring
microorganisms pathogenic to it in coordination with other
methods
Objectives
(1) To study the impact of water quality factors on the
pathology of milfoil in Wisconsin
(2) To determine microbiological, mechanical and chemical
components for a coordinated program
(3) To determine the impact of integrated control on water
quality
Milfoil grown in lighted aquaria will be subjected to pathogens
and to various regimens of water chemistry and quality including
sediment type, relative hardness, nutrient status, turbidity, and
temperature Effect of these variables on pathogenesis will be
assessed by symptom development, effect on the host will be
determined by measuring biomass as dry weight. Juvenile milfoil
in aquaria will be subjected to mechanical harvesting, chemical
or biological control with pathogens, or to all possible
combinations of these treatments Efficacy will be assessed as
above Promising additive or synergistic controls will be tested
further in experimental ponds or in large plastic enclosures in
the lake Water quality parameters used to measure impact of
control strategies will include survival and host specificity of the
pathogen, seasonal periodicity of phytoplankton, nutrient levels
as represented by phosphate, turbidity, pH, and biochemical
oxygen demand Pilot studies will be conducted in vitro Later
trials will be in experimental ponds or within plastic enclosures
in the lake
FY-81
88
-------
Title.
Evaluation of Sewage Treatment Plant Performance
Principal Investigator'
P M Berthouex,
W G Hunter
Institution
University of
Wisconsin-Madison
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
{2 years) $157,930
EPA Project Number-
R809162
The objective of this research is to define the capabilities of
treatment plants to perform consistently Existing records of
effluent quality cover a combination of intervals when plants
function as well as they should and other intervals when they
perform poorly because of operator error, equipment
malfunction, or other disturbances A typical study of effluent
quality condenses a plant's effluent quality record into a
frequency distribution and uses that distribution to define
satisfactory performance A study is needed that segregates and
carefully examines periods of poor treatment in an attempt to
find assignable causes for such unsatisfactory behavior Then
the dynamics of the process during normal operation could be
statistically characterized Records from a number of treatment
plants will be analyzed, including a number of plants that have
been studied by others
Simply making the frequency distribution analysis of effluent
quality is not sufficient to achieve the objectives Neither is the
application of standard quality control theory because some of
the fundamental important assumptions underlying the usual
quality control methods are violated by treatment plant operating
data A combination of quality control methods and time series
techniques is needed to identify portions of records that are
thought to be m-control or out-of-control These two separate
portions then will be studied carefully Neither statistical method
alone is adequate for this purpose
This research will (1) improve understanding performance
variation, (2) provide a baseline of performance against which to
compare proposed innovative designs, (3) improve operational
reliability by more precisely defining performance expectations,
and (4) develop methodology to permit others to carry out similar
analyses on other sets of data
89
FY-81
-------
Title:
Tnhalomethanes in Drinking Water and Colon Cancer
Principal In ves tigator:
Marty Kanarek
Institution:
University of
Wisconsin -Madison
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $224,954
EPA Project Number:
R808685
In response to preliminary epidemiologic and laboratory
studies which suggest an association between exposure to
chlorinated drinking water and cancers of the urinary and
digestive tract, a case-control study of environmental factors and
cancers of the colon and rectum is being conducted in
Wisconsin The primary objective is to determine the magnitude
and significance of cancer risk associated with estimated lifetime
ingestion of chloroform, total trihalomethane, and total
chlorinated volatiles In addition, the risk associated with other
water contaminants, dietary habits, occupational and other life
style factors will be explored
The data base for comparing case exposures to control
exposures will be assembled from responses on a mail-back
questionnaire given to a statewide sample of 1 600 incident
cases of colon and rectum cancer and 3200 controls (one set of
non-digestive, non-urinary cancer controls, and one set of
general population controls) The data base for comparing case
exposures to control exposures will be assembled from merging
(1) residential histories and information from a mail-back
questionnaire, on water drinking and bathing habits, (2)
estimates of drinking water exposures which prevailed at the
past geographic locations where each subject resided The
estimates for each water source will be derived by a statistical
modeling procedure in which quantitative, seasonal
measurements of chlorinated by-products in the finished water
of 100 waterworks will be regressed on water parameters for
which historic data are available (chlorine dose, pH, source type,
etc ) It will then be possible to use the historic data available
from waterworks records (appropriately weighted) to estimate
the drinking water exposures for all sources at any point in time
FY-81
90
-------
Title:
Human Cell Activation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Principal Investigator.
Leila Diamond
Institution:
Wistar Institute
Project Period'
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $342,150
EPA Project Number:
Ft 809202
The objective of this project is to determine the validity of
using established human hepatoma cell lines in culture as
activators for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in short-
term genotoxic assays that require an exogenous activation
system The project is based on our preliminary evidence that
one such cell line that we have isolated, HepG2, can activate two
PAH carcinogens, benzo(a)pyrme (BP) and 7,1 2-dimethyl-
benza(a)anthracene (DMBA), to mutagenic metabolites in a cell-
mediated assay with V79 Chinese hamster cells as target cells
The protocol also will provide information about the potential use
of SENCAR mice, which have been specifically bred for
susceptibility to PAH carcmogenesis, in in vivo screening assays
for PAH carcinogens
Using the HepG2 cell line as an activation system in cell-
mediated assays and selection of 6-thioguanme-resistant V79
target cells as the marker, a series of PAH of known genotoxic
(carcinogenic) and non-genotoxic activity will be tested first for
mutagenic activity Then a series of PAH derivatives with fluoro
or methyl substitutions at various positions on the molecule and
unknown mutagenic or carcinogenic activity will be tested in the
in vitro assay This latter group of compounds also will be tested
for skin tumor initiating activity in SENCAR mice using an
initiation/promotion protocol To determine if HepG2 cells (or
other human hepatoma cell lines that will be tested) are more
appropriate as activators than rodent cells or tissue preparations
for predicting genotoxic or carcinogenic potential of individual
PAH for humans, the metabolism of BP and DMBA by HepG2
cells and normal human liver fractions will be compared to
metabolism by rat hepatocytes and rat liver fractions
Hydrocarbon-DNA binding in V79 target cells mediated by the
various cells and tissues also will be compared
These studies will help to validate the HepG2 cell-mediated
mutation assay for PAH, increase our knowledge of species
extrapolations for PAH activation and of the structural
requirements of hydrocarbon molecules for mutagenic and
carcinogenic activity and provide additional information on the
use of SENCAR mice in "short-term" in vivo assays for PAH
carcinogens
91
FY-81
-------
-------
Institution
Contents
Investigator
Page
Alabama, University of Gerald S. Vigee 1
Arizona, University of Gary Amy 2
Arizona, University of Dr. Charles P Gerba 3
Arizona, University of Jost 0 L. Wendt 4
Arkansas University for Medical
Sciences Donald E McMillan 5
Battelle-Columbus Laboratories Michael J Murphy 6
Baylor College of Medicine Marjorie G. Horning 7
Brookhaven National Laboratory Seymour Holtzman 8
Brookhaven National Laboratory,
Associated Universities, Inc Dr M E, LeFevre 9
Brookhaven National Laboratory P. Michael and A. Levin 10
Brookhaven National Laboratory I. N Tang and J. H. Lee 11
California, University of James N. Seiber 12
California, University of Mario J. Molina 13
California, University of Hans R Pruppacher 14
California, University of Arthur Wallace 15
Carnegie-Mellon University Richard G. Luthy, Francis C. McMichael,
and, Mitchell J. Small 16
Case Western Reserve University Gilles Klopman and Herbert S Rosenkranz 17
Case Western Reserve University Herbert S. Rosenkranz 18
Case Western Reserve University Herbert S. Rosenkranz 19
Colorado State University Roger A. Pielke 20
Colorado, University of Robert E Sievers 21
Columbia University Helmut W Schulz 22
Cornell University James M Gossett 23
Dalhousie University Patricia A Lane 24
Dartmouth Medical School Vergil H Ferm 25
Drexel University Dr Mirat D. Gural 26
Duke University Daniel B Menzel 27
Duke University Edward J. Shaughnessy 28
Florida, University of Gabriel Bitton and Samuel R Farrah 29
Florida, University of Samuel R. Farrah 30
Florida, University of Susan W Vmce 31
Harvard University James N. Butler 32
Hawaii, University of Jed Hirota 33
Illinois, University of Larry G. Hansen 34
Illinois, University of Makram T Su/dan and Bruce E Rittmann 35
Illinois, University of Wayne A. Tompkms 36
Indiana, University of Dr Ronald A Hites 37
i FY-82
-------
Institution
National Committee for the
International Association on
Water Pollution Research
United States of America
Iowa State University
Johns Hopkins University
Johns Hopkins University
Maryland, University of
Mary/and, University of
Massachusetts, University of
Massachusetts, University of
Michigan Technological
University
Michigan, University of
Michigan, University of
Midwest Research Institute
Minnesota, University of
Murray State University
New Hampshire, University
New Jersey Institute of
Technology
State University of New York
Binghamton
State University of New York
Bmghamtom
State University of New York
Binghamton
New York University
New York University
New York University
North Carolina State University
North Carolina, University of
North Carolina, University of
North Carolina, University of
Ohio State University
Ohio State University
Oregon State University
Penn State University
Pennsylvania State University
Rochester, University of
Rochester, University of
Rochester, University of
St. Anthony Falls Hydraulic
Laboratory
Contents
Investigator
Page
F G Pohland 38
Ronald Dobosy 33
Charles R O'Melia 40
David L Swift 41
Ih-Chang Hsu 42
Dr Michael L/psky 43
Neil M. Ram 44
Michael P Shians 45
John C Cnttenden and Neil J Hutz/er 46
Donald Stedman 47
Walter J Weber, Jr 48
Frank T Greene 49
Robert M. Car/son 50
Joe M. King 51
James H Weber 52
Dr Joseph W Bozzelli 53
Doug/as G. Capone 54
Dr John J Christian 55
Gilbert E. Janauer 56
Joan Darsey 58
Albert F. Gunnison 59
Morton L/ppmann 60
P. K Urn 61
Dr J Donald Johnson 62
Philip C Singer 63
Gary J, Smith 64
Steven M. D'Ambrosio 65
Steven M D'Ambrosio 66
George S. Beaudreau and Margot N. Pearson 67
William J McCarthy 68
Robert M. Fetters 69
Robert Do/in 70
Dr. Thomas A. Gasiew/cz 77
William H Mer/gan 72
Gary Parker 73
FY-82
-------
Contents
Institution Investigator Page
Seton Hall University L J Clme Love 74
Southeast Missouri State
University Dr. John W. Sharp 75
Southern California,
University of Michael Karin 77
Stanford University C. T. Bowman and R K Hanson 78
Stanford University James 0 Leckie 79
Stanford University Paul V, Roberts 80
Syracuse University Chi Tien 81
Texas A &M University Or Bill Batchelor 82
Texas, University of Desmond F Lawler 83
Texas, University of Dr Howard M. Li/jestrand 84
Union University, Albany David A. Lawrence 85
Virgin/a, University of Sharon G. Berk 86
Virginia, University of Peter F. Germann 87
Washington State University Brian Lamb 88
Washington State University Merrill R. Pack 89
Washington University Stephen H Po/mar 90
Washington, University of R. M. Kocan 91
Washington, University of Lawrence A. Loeb and Earl P. Benditt 32
Washington, University of Gordon Swartzman 93
Wayne State University Colin F Poole 94
West Virginia University Gerald E. Lang 95
Wisconsin, University of Robert F Bowman and Nellie K Laugh/in 96
Wisconsin, University of Dr Pao-Kuan Wang 37
Woods Hole Oceanographic
Institute John M. Teal 98
FY-82
-------
Title:
Catalytic Air Oxidation of Industrial Effluent
Principal In vest/gator:
Gerald S Vigee
Institution:
University of
Alabama in
Birmingham
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 year si $124,087
EPA Project Number:
809726
The treatment of industrial waste water containing pollutants
such as phenols is expensive and energy consuming. Treatment
methods presently available utilize carbon adsorption, chemical
means (condensation of phenols with aldehydes) and biological
agents which are found to metabolize (oxidize) phenol substrates
are phenoloxidases, metalloenzymes which possess binuclear
copper(11) ions at the active site. The enzymes use aerobic
oxygen as oxidants and the reaction is significantly enhanced by
sunlight
The object of this project is to prepare and test polymeric
copper catalysts which exhibit oxidase activity and can be used
to treat phenols in waste water The complexes are expected to
mimic the oxidase behavior of the metalloenzymes found in
microbial sludges presently used in the treatment of phenol
containing waste water but will lack the inherent shortcomings
of the living microbial agents.
Polymeric copper complexes, similar to the simple copper
complexes exhibiting oxidase activity which were previously
prepared in the author's laboratory, will be prepared and tested
for oxidase activity against phenols in water The complexes will
be anchored to prevent their loss during oxidase treatment. They
will be tested for oxidase activity under varying conditions of pH,
light and dark and their ability to precipitate out polymeric
phenols by flocculation will be investigated
It is expected that the simple metalloenzyme-like complexes
will effectively remove or neutralize as much soluble catechols
or phenols as the presently used biological agents without the
disadvantages found in the use of biological agents Only
laboratory testing is planned in this project Scale up to pilot
plant size testing should present little difficulty.
FY-82
-------
Title:
An Empirical Model for Predicting Trihalomethane Formation in Synthetic and Natural
Waters
Principal Investigator:
Gary Amy
Institution:
University of Arizona
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $112,942
EPA Project Number:
R809935
This research project represents a systematic study to describe
the kinetics and extent of trihalomethane formation during the
chlonnation of synthetic and natural waters containing humic
substances The objectives of the proposed study are (1) to
develop an empirical model which can predict trihalomethane
formation as a function of time, based on a series of initial water
quality characteristics and reaction conditions, (2) to
quantitatively assess the effects of precursor type, purcursor
concentration, chlorine dose, temperature, pH, and bromide
concentration on the kinetics and ultimate yield of
trihalomethanes, and (3) to ascertain the effects of several
candidate treatment processes on THM reaction kinetics and
yield.
The formation of trihalomethanes during chlonnation is being
investigated for a broad spectrum of both synthetic and natural
water samples containing humic substances The effects of
various degrees of water treatment on the kinetics and yield of
trihalomethanes is being evaluated by considering several
candidate treatment processes selected for precursor removal,
including chemical coagulation, activated carbon adsorption, and
ozonation. Trihalomethane formation is being studied in both
untreated and treated waters by conducting batch-mode
experiments in which a wide range of experimental conditions
(i.e , temperature, pH, etc ) are evaluated.
Multiple linear and nonlinear regression are being employed to
statistically analyze groups and subgroups of data in order to
quantitatively represent the trihalomethane formation reaction
Data corresponding to each unique water are being evaluated
individually to develop a series of empirical submodels applicable
to each of the waters Eventually the entire data base will be
used in attempting to formulate an overall model Finally, the
overall model will be modified to account for changes in
precursor characteristics induced by treatment, thus enabling
prediction of THM formation in various waters following
treatment
FY-82
-------
Title:
Detection of Rotavirus and Hepatitis A in Water
Principal In vestigator:
Dr. Charles P Gerba
Institution:
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $116.945
EPA Project Number:
R809855
Objectives
The primary objectives of this project are: (1) to improve
methodology for the detection of rotaviruses and hepatitis A
(HAV) virus in water; (2) to determine the ability of rotaviruses
and HAV to survive domestic sewage and drinking water
treatment, and (3) to determine the occurrence and
concentration of rotaviruses and HAV in sewage, polluted
recreational waters and reclaimed waters
Expected Results of
Research:
The previous absence of applicable methodology for virus
detection m waters and the difficulty of epidemiologic studies
have limited the amount of available information on waterborne
viral disease Because of the difficulty and cost of epidemiologic
methods, it is felt that the presence of viruses in a water supply
can be an indication of a disease threat. Waterborne outbreaks
of viral disease have been documented for infectious hepatitis,
enteroviruses, rotavirus, adenoviruses Norwalk-like agent, and
other agents of non-bacterial gastroenteritis believed to be viral.
An improved detection system for viruses would provide a means
for early prediction of potential waterborne disease outbreaks.
FY-82
-------
Title:
Fuel Nitrogen Mechanisms in Laminar Opposed Jet Diffusion Flames
Principal Investigator:
Jost 0. L Wendt
Institution:
University of Arizona
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years! $97,096
EPA Project Number:
R809968
The principal objectives of this research are to identify and
quantify the significant chemical reaction paths for the
conversion of fuel nitrogen under strained, laminar, opposed jet,
diffusion flame conditions Thus, this work focuses on the
chemical events occurring in the first few milleseconds of
reaction history under non-premixed, diffusion conditions An
understanding of this short time-constant behavior is required to
predict the effects of fuel nitrogen type, fuel type and NO
reprocessing by flames, and should aid in the development of
inexpensive NOX control strategies through combustion
modification
The laminar opposed jet combustion configuration has a
number of unique attributes1 first, it can be modeled in detail
with finite rate elementary reactions, second, it is a clean
experiment, both analytically and experimentally, because
influences of boundary surfaces are minimized and ideal
conditions can be approached, third, it allows the study of
kinetics in extremely rich pyrolysis environments, fourth, the
strained flame is representative of flamelet environments
embedded within large structure turbulent diffusion flames
Thus, the kinetic routes uncovered in this work have some
bearing on those important in practical turbulent diffusion
flames.
The project consists of two phases In the first phase, focus is
on reaction paths important in the processing of fuel nitrogen in
CO/H2 flames without hydrocarbons These studies are,
therefore, with a fuel whose reaction mechanism and free
radical production are understood and this will allow
simplifications in interpreting fuel nitrogen pyrolysis and
oxidation mechanisms In phase 2, hydrocarbons will be added to
the fuel, but in dilute amounts in order to prevent the formation
of soot Extractive sampling and optical techniques will be used
to measure stable and some transient species In all cases the
objective is clearly to identify fuel nitrogen reaction paths with as
few obscuring factors as possible.
FY-82
-------
Title:
A Multi-Species Comparison of the Neurobehavioral Toxicology of Alkyltin
Principal Investigator:
Donald E McMillan
Institution:
University of
Arkansas for
Medical Sciences
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $287.022
EPA Project Number:
R809452
Alkyltin compounds are used widely in industry and represent
an important class of neurotoxms. Both triethyltin (TET) and
trimethyltin (TMT) produce lesions in the hippocampus TET has
been shown to produce a disruption of the myelm sheath with
little neuronal involvement. Recently, however, TMT has been
shown to produce a degeneration of the neuron with little
involvement of the myeline sheath The specificity of the lesions
produced by TET and TMT provides a unique opportunity to
correlate functional deficits with pathology These tests will
include spontaneous motor activity, and schedule-controlled
(operant) behavior. The tests using the schedule-controlled
behavior will include schedules which are sensitive to a wide
variety of behaviorally active substances (i.e , multiple fixed-
ratio, fixed-interval), and schedules which are useful for
controlling behavior which may be related to hippocampal
functions of learning and memory (i.e , single alteration,
repeated acquisition, matchmg-to-sample). Neuropathology of
TET and TMT administration will be studied in both the animals
used in the behavioral studies and in animals treated identically
but not used in behavioral species mouse, rat and pigeon.
Although the rat has been used extensively in previous studies
with alkyltin, preliminary results in this laboratory has shown
that the mouse and the pigeon are approximately 2-3 fold more
sensitive. Thus, they may prove to be better animal models than
the rat. In addition, the multi-species approach will add
generality to our findings
FY-82
-------
Title:
"The Spouted Bed: A Novel Approach to Burn Low Calorific Value Fuels in an
Environmentally Acceptable Manner"
Principal In ves tigator:
Michael J Murphy
Institution:
Battelle-Columbus
Laboratories
Project Period:
1'/4 years
Budget:
(1'A years) $130.632
EPA Project Number:
R809584
The overall objective of this program is to provide a
quantitative basis for assessing the spouted bed combustor as a
burner for low heating value fuels Whereas conventional
combustion systems use preheat to extend the range of
flammability, the spouted bed incorporates internal heat
recirculation to raise the adiabatic flame temperature. The
spouted bed thus has the potential to burn low-grade fuels
completely without an external source of energy or an external
heat exchanger
In order to investigate the possibilities of the spouted bed for
burning such fuels, we have constructed a 150 mm diameter
laboratory-scale spouted bed combustor This lab-scale unit is
equipped to burn solid, liquid, and gaseous fuels. A sample probe
and sample line connected to a set of emissions measurement
instruments allow the combustion products to be monitored.
Experiments will be conducted in which the heating value of
the fuel is changed systematically in order to identify the lower
limit of stability. In addition to measuring gaseous emissions,
observations of the overall flame shape and structure will be
made.
The results will include the fuel tolerance of the spouted bed,
emissions data, fuel feeding procedures, and overall flame
structure observations
FY-82
-------
Title:
Short-Term Tests for ChemicalNephrotoxicity
Principal In vestigator:
Marjorie G Horning
institution:
Bay/or College of
Medicine
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $410.275
EPA Project Number:
R809590
The chief objective of the present study is to develop reliable
short-term tests that can be used to test for nephrotoxicity of
environmental compounds Three groups of nephrotoxic
compounds will be studied Group I includes compounds known
to damage the proximal convoluted tubule and to cause
glucosuna These compounds will be used to establish the
validity of an experimental design based on failure of the glucose
reabsorption mechanism. Compounds in Group II include
chemicals that are nephrotoxic, but where there is not complete
agreement with respect to the incidence of glucosuna and where
lesions have been observed in the straight portion of the
proximal tubule. Most of these compounds are halogenated and
all are hepatotoxic as well. Group III includes substances that are
regarded as nephrotoxic, but where the mechanisms of toxicity
and site(s) of injury are not well defined Inasmuch as some of
the compounds (carbon tetrachlonde and bromobenzene) are
more nephrotoxic to mice than to rats, studies will be carried out
both in rats and mice to determine the extent to which the
glucose response is species, strain or sex dependent
A second objective is to study the effect of nephrotoxic
compounds on the excretion of endogenous organic acids It is
well known that many nephrotoxic agents alter anion transport
By comparing the 24-hr urinary acid profiles of control rats with
profiles obtained from rats treated with nephrotoxic doses of the
compounds under study, it may be possible to identify one or
more changes that can serve as a marker for altered anion
transport resulting from kidney damage. Characteristic changes
in acid profiles have been observed following administration of
hepatotoxic agents; it is not yet known if changes result from
kidney toxicity.
A third objective is to investigate the ability of protective
agents to prevent renal toxicity due to environmental chemicals
In preliminary studies, it was found that pretreatment with
cobaltous chloride prevented the functional damage induced by
large doses of salicylic acid and acetaminophen These results
indicate that glucosuna was caused by metabolism of the drugs
to reactive intermediates by enzymes of the P450 type, and that
these intermediates may have been formed in the kidney The
protective effect of N-acetyl-L-cysteme and the anti-oxidant BHA
(butylated hydroxyamsole) on the incidence and severity of
glucosuria induced by nephrotoxic compounds will be studied.
The studies with protective agents should provide insight as to
the nature of reactive intermediates and to the molecular
pharmacology of nephrotoxicity caused by environmental
compounds
FY-82
-------
Title:
A Rapid, Sensitive and Inexpensive In Vivo Carcinogenesis Test
Principal In vest/gator:
Seymour Ho/tzman
Institution:
Brookhaven National
Laboratory
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $242,763
EPA Project Number:
R810142
The aim of this proposal is to develop and validate a simple,
rapid, sensitive and inexpensive in vivo screen for chemical
carcinogens The system is based upon the direct application of
test materials in either solution, or suspension, or dry mixtures
to specific sites in the breast tissue of female Sprague-Dawley
rats, with a subsequent 90-day follow-up to determine mammary
adenocarcmoma production. Each animal can be used for both
dose response studies and as its own control because there are
up to 12 sites (nipples) available for application. Thus, fewer
animals and smaller quantities of test materials will be needed
than are used in standard carcmogenesis tests. Promotion by
increased dietary fat intake will be attempted to increase the
sensitivity of the test For chemicals which are negative in the
test, or which are not considered to be mammary carcinogens,
we will try activation with Arochlor-mduced rat liver S-9
fractions The screening test will be developed for both pure
chemicals and complex mixtures Materials that have already
undergone a variety of in vitro and in vivo tests will be used for
validation purposes. Aside from its intrinsic value for
investigatory purposes by Federal regulatory agencies such as
the EPA, and by Universities and other research organizations,
the relative simplicity and low cost of this screen should make
the test useful to state and local governments. The screen
should also allow industries with limited finances and facilities
to develop their products more rapidly and safely, while cutting
costs to the consumer public
FY-82
-------
Title:
Intestinal Barrier to Paniculate Matter in Young and Old Animals
Principal Investigator:
M. E. LeFevre. PhD
Institution:
Associated
Universities, Inc.,
Brookhaven National
Laboratory,
Upton, NY
Project Period;
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $279.175
EPA Project Number:
R810140
Objectives:
This project will attempt to quantitate penetration of the
intestinal mucosal barrier by non-digestible paniculate matter in
weanling, young adult, and old mice Test particles, 1 5-Aim
fluorescent and 5.7-/jm nonfluorescent latex will be
administered chronically by gavage. 7Be-labeled carbon (a new
test particle produced by bombardment of carbon black with
high-energy protons) will be given by gavage in single-dose
experiments. Morphology of the tissues involved will be studied
by light and electron microscopy with emphasis on the use of
Peyer's patches, the region of the small intestine known to be
the major site of particle penetration.
Methods:
Later particle content will be determined in residues of
solubihzed liver, lung, spleen, kidney, mesenteric and popliteal
lymph nodes, Peyer's patches, and remainder of small intestine.
Particles will be counted in appropriate aliquots of resuspended
tissue residue or in residue deposited on small filters Latex
uptake and distribution will be determined in groups of mice
given latex for 60 days and sacrificed at intervals up to 10 weeks
after the termination of gavagmg. Retention and distribution of
7Be-labeled carbon will be determined by scintillation counting of
organs from 0 to 336 hours after a dose of 107 cpm.
Expected Results
The project will provide qualitative and quantitative
information on the barrier function of the gastrointestinal tract
and its changes with age. By determining particle uptake and
distribution, factors which influence particle absorption will be
elucidated and information on the mode of transport of particles
away from the intestine will be gained. By determining particle
retention and redistribution in intestinal and reticuloendothelial
tissues, the project will provide information on the risks
associated with the ingestion of environmental particulate
pollutants in drinking water.
FY-82
-------
Title:
Direct Stochastic Model for Reactive Plumes
Principal Investigators:
P Michael and
A. Levin
Institution:
Brookhaven National
Laboratory
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $130,000
EPA Project Number:
R809556
The objective of this program is to investigate theoretically the
evolution of chemically reactive plumes in the atmosphere and to
produce a mathematical formulation capable of describing the
mam features of the statistics of pollutant concentration
fluctuations in plumes m which chemical reaction is significant.
To accomplish this, statistical models of both the entrainment
process and the mechanism by which intermittent chemical
structure is developed inside the plume will be developed.
The first task to be undertaken is to develop a stochastic model
for the entrainment process Near the stack, if the chemical rate
is sufficiently rapid, the process of turbulent mixing will
determine the reaction rate for those emitted species which
react primarily with species in the ambient atmosphere. Even for
slower reactions, the turbulent mixing rate will determine the
effective reaction rate by controlling the rate of dilution of initial
concentration levels in the plume. Using the assumption that
turbulent motion with scales in the mertial subrange dominates
the entrainment process, a stochastic model for the growth of
volume of a puff will be developed and then puff behavior will be
related to plume evolution in the usual manner The result will
be a Fokker-Plank-type equation for the probability density
function (pdf) of the volume of the puff, with parameters
obtained from the atmospheric turbulence at the level of the
plume and from dimensional considerations. The description will
use Markovian statist: and will provide a stochastic description of
volume growth somewhat analogous to the random trajectory
model description of single-point diffusion in a shear flow.
The second task will be to develop a mathematical description
of the mtermittency process The technique will follow the same
lines as described in the treatment of entrainment. In this case a
stochastic process will be proposed which represents the
fragmentation of an initial puff into subsegments A crucial role
will be played by mertial subrange motions straining off parcels
of the initial puff at time and length scales appropriate to the
initial size of the puff and the scales of turbulent motion which
are significantly smaller than the current puff dimension.
This project is primarily within the Atmospheric Sciences
Division of the Department of Energy and Environment of
Brookhaven National Laboratory
The mathematical derivations and physical approximations will
be carried out primarily by Dr Arnold Levin, staff scientist within
the Atmospheric Sciences Division; Dr Paul Michael, Project
Manager and Head of the Atmospheric Sciences Division, will
review all derivations and approximations There will be frequent
consultations with staff members at Brookhaven National
Laboratory who have knowledge of atmospheric chemistry,
meteorology, and mathematical methods
All reports and papers to be published are cleared through the
Department of Energy and Environment
FY-82
10
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Title:
Pollutant Chemistry in Combustion Systems
Principal Investigators:
I. N. Tang and
J. H. Lee
Institution:
Brookha ven National
Laboratory
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $112,576
EPA Project Number:
R809490
The objective of the research project is to identify important
chemical reactions that may lead to a reduced emission of
pollutants from fossil fuel combustion systems. During the first
year of the project, research efforts will be focused on absolute
rate measurements for high-temperature NO reactions with
hydrocarbon radicals CH and CH2. Reactions are carried out in a
discharge fast flow apparatus specifically designed and
constructed for operation at temperatures up to 1100K. Both
atomic resonance fluorescence and laser-induced fluorescence
techniques are currently employed for the detection and
continuous monitoring of atoms and free radicals present in the
reaction systems. It is expected that kinetic measurements,
made under pseudo-first-order conditions as a function of
temperature, will provide information for assessing the
importance of such reactions as a potential NOX destruction
mechanism under staged combustion conditions. The research is
expected to continue into its second phase concentrating on-
reaction product identification.
FY-82
-------
Title:
Development and Verification of a Method for Calculating Vapor Pressures from Gas
Chromatographic Retention Data
Principal Investigator:
Professor James
N Seiber
Institution:
University of
California
Davis, CA 95616
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years> $69,944
EPA Project Number:
R810134
The objective of this proposal is to develop and verify a method
for calculating ambient vapor pressures of organic compounds of
low volatility from gas Chromatographic (GC) retention data The
work will entail development of the GC technique and
approaches to calculation, examining GC conditions, candidate
reference compounds, and methods of calculation in the process.
The techniques examined will be applied to a variety of
chemicals, with verification of accuracy and precision by
comparison of GC-denved vapor pressures with experimental
values in the literature or those determined experimentally in the
course of this project Approximately 60 individual
organochlorme, organophosphorus, polynuclear aromatic, N-
methylcarbamate, phenoxy acid/ester, aniline, and phthalate
compounds, and several mixtures, will be examined. The aim is
to develop a method which is rapid, accurate, and precise to
provide vapor pressures of pesticides and other toxic substances
of regulatory concern, and to compile a consistent set of vapor
pressure data for such chemicals for development of structure-
vapor pressures correlations
It may well prove feasible eventually to estimate P from
molecular structure Having values of P for several classes of
compounds determined by a consistent method may facilitate
development of new structure-P correlations, as well as
expanding the data base for evaluating currently available
approaches to estimating P via boiling point (Gram, 1981).
FY-82
12
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Title:
A Study of the Reaction of Hydroxyl Radicals with Per nitric Acid
Principal Investigator:
Mario J. Molina
Institution:
University of
California, Irvine
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $30.244
EPA Project Number:
R809742
The objective of this research is to measure the rate constant
for the reaction of hydroxyl radicals, OH, with pernitnc acid
vapor, HOON02 This rate constant value is required for model
calculations of the chemistry of the stratosphere: our earlier
results indicated that pernitric acid is very stable towards solar
photolysis, and hence reaction with hydroxyl radicals is expected
to be the predominant destruction process for this species in the
lower stratosphere. Furthermore, the reaction is expected to
have a pronounced effect on the hydroxyl radical balance and
hence on the stability of stratospheric ozone towards
anthropogenic perturbations resulting from the industrial release
of chlorofluorocarbons
We are measuring the absolute rate constant for the OH +
HOON02 reaction by means of the flash photolysis resonance
fluorescence technique. Pernitric acid is a rather unstable
species in the laboratory and it cannot be prepared in pure form
Mixtures of HOON02 vapor with H2O, H2O2, and HNO3 are
prepared by flowing He, a carrier gas, through concentrated
aqueous solutions containing H202 and HNOs vapors The
composition of the gaseous mixture is established by long-path Fourier-
transform infrared spectroscopy, and the measured pseudo-first
order OH decay rates are corrected for the contributions due to
H2O2 and HMOs. Our preliminary results indicate that these
corrections amount to at most 30% of the overall rate, and that
the rate constant value at room temperature is about 5 x 10~12
molecule cm"3 s~1, a value considerably larger than the one
originally used in model calculations. Furthermore, our
preliminary results yield a negative activation energy, with a
value of about 1.2 kcal/mole, which is comparable to the value
for the reaction of OH with HNOa.
13
FY-82
-------
Title:
Scavenging of Gases and Aerosol Particles by Atmospheric Clouds and Precipitation and
its Contribution to Acid Precipitation
Principal Investigator:
Hans R. Pruppacher
Institution:
University of
California
Los Angeles, CA
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years} $206,589
EPA Project Number:
R809335
The present study attempts to get a better understanding of
the processes which control the scavenging of atmospheric trace
gases by clouds and precipitation In particular the two gases,
Sulfurdioxide (S02) and Nitrogendioxide (N02), responsible for
what is known as "acid rain" are being studied A theoretical
model and sophisticated experimental set up, developed and
perfected during previous EPA grants, are used in this study The
theoretical model involves a numerical solution of the convective
diffusion equation for a trace gas diffusing through the
environment toward—and into—falling water drops inside of
which the water is exhibiting a recirculating flow The
experimental set up involves a 35 meter high shaft adapted for
studying the efficiency with which water drops of various sizes
are able to remove a gas present in various concentrations. Both
the rate of gas-absorption and gas-desorption are studied. The
results obtained are used to determine the rate at which a gas
contained in a pollution layer of specified extent is removed by a
rainfall of specified precipitation intensity and drop size
distribution
FY-82
14
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Title:
Dose Response Curves for Multiple Trace Elements
Principal In vestigator:
Arthur Wallace
Institution:
University of
California
Los Angeles, CA
90024
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $95.533
EPA Project Number:
R809578
Trace element toxicity is an environmental problem and
environmental impact statements are often required to contain
predictions as to whether or not a given technology will result in
trace element toxicity to plants, animals or man. The criteria
employed for assessing possible toxicity are often in
considerable error because they do not take into account
possible additive and synergistic effects when two or more
elements are simultaneously near the toxicity range. Accurate
assessment demands that these phenomena also be considered.
An example of the powerful influence that additive effects can
have is that if enough of each of 22 different trace elements
were present in sufficient excess to each result in only a 5%
yield decrease if contaminating separately, all contaminating
together can result in a yield decrease to 32% of maximum if
each were additive. The effect can be even more drastic if
synergistic effects are involved
The objectives of the study are.
1. Refine the data base for threshold toxicity levels of trace
elements through consideration of interactions present
when 2, 3, and 4 different trace elements are in excess
simultaneously (this causes variation in threshold levels,
lethal levels and in the amount of toxicity per unit of metal).
2. Better develop the theoretical basis for explanation of
multitrace element interactions in plants which modify
phytotoxicities.
3. Prepare a rational scenario, which could guide those
making environmental impact statements, on potential
toxicities when more than one trace element is involved in
pollution insofar as our studies with four elements
simultaneously will permit
Studies to date are indicating both additive and synergistic
effects when two and three trace elements are contaminating
simultaneously. Equally important is that threshold levels are
being altered with evidence that a critical level for a given trace
element is lower when other trace elements simultaneously
contaminate. From the studies more realistic understanding of
critical levels is expected.
FY-82
-------
Title:
Investigation of Limiting Engineering and Chemical Factors for Recycle and Reuse of
Blast Furnace Scrubber Waters under the Clean Water Act and RCRA
Principal Investigator:
Richard G Luthy
Francis C.
McMichael
andMitchellJ. Small
Institution:
Carnegie-Mellon
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $163.134
EPA Project Number:
R809628
The purpose of this study is to develop an integrated approach
to the recycling, treatment and management of blast furnace
scrubber water The study will assess the recycle of blast
furnace water in scrubber and spray towers and the treatment of
recycled water to achieve coincident removal of recycle-limiting
and environmental related constituents, with disposal of a
minimized blow-down stream by slag quenching Issues to be
studied in this investigation include' (1) evaluation of quality
constraints imposed on the streams for which the treated water
may be reused, (2) investigation of physico-chemical phenomena
which influence the behavior and fate of process (recycle-
limiting) contaminants and environmental contaminants; and (3)
evaluation of the effect upon slag leachate characteristics of
quenching slag with waters containing varying levels of toxic
metals and organics The study includes bench-scale testing
with scrubber waters, and chemical and process modeling to
predict water quality changes and precipitate formation upon
reuse and treatment The results of this study will provide a
fundamental understanding of the fates of recycle-limiting
species and environmental contaminants in industrial
wastewater reuse systems, and provide guidance for the
improved operation of blast-furnace recycle systems.
FY-82
16
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Title:
Chemical Basis of the Mutagenicity and Potential Carcinogenicity of Environmental
Agents
Principal Investigator:
Gilles Klopman and
Herbert S.
Rosenkranz
Institution:
Case Western
Reserve University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $146,121
EPA Project Number:
ft 810063
In this project an attempt will be made to predict the
mutagenic and toxicological properties of chemicals by
establishing quantitative structure activity relationships. The
chemical structural features of environmental chemical agents
will be evaluated as a function of their respective biological
activities. The approach employs definition of the physiochemical
features of mutagenic sets of compounds based on molecular
mechanics, MM, quantum mechanics, QM, and pattern
recognition techniques, PR.
Both linear free energy (LFE) and non-linear free energy (NLFE)
QSAR will be investigated. In the case of NLFE, action models
will be proposed to explain the experimental data. The initial data
set considered will be composed of the families of compounds
whose mutagenicity was.tested in the Gene-Tox program, and
that are currently being compiled by the Center for the
Environmental Health Sciences of Case Western Reserve
University
Within each series of congeneric chemicals, the determination
of the relationship of mutagenic potency to chemical structure
will be undertaken for every assay for which sufficient
experimental results are available. Common endpomt screens
will be developed to provide biological activity for the QSAR
analysis. The QSAR which emerges from this work will be tested
by choosing additional compounds from the data base.
Whenever necessary, we will also augment the data base by
synthesizing and testing chemicals whose mutagenicity
determination may help resolve ambiguous mechanistic paths
suggested by the action models.
77
FY-82
-------
Title:
Molecular Biology and Usefulness of Nitroreductase-less Bacteria
Principal Investigator:
Herbert S.
Rosenkranz
Institution:
Case Western
Reserve University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $87,000
EPA Project Number:
R809881
Recently it was recognized that nitropyrenes as well as other
nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (nitroarenes) are
widely distributed in the environment chiefly as a result of the
replacement of the gasoline-powered passenger car by diesel-
driven automobiles. This dieselization trend is projected to
continue Because nitropyrenes as well as other nitroarenes are
highly mutagenic in a number of systems and as some of them
have been reported to be cancer-causing as well, it is of
importance to quantitate their presence in the environment. The
traditional techniques of the chemist (fractionation and
instrumental identification of the chemicals) do not lend
themselves routinely to this task because of their complexity, the
requirement for expensive equipment and trained personnel. It is
proposed to take advantage of the potent mutagemcity of these
chemicals in microbial systems to construct bacterial strains that
are specifically deficient in their response to the genetic action of
various members of this group of chemicals.
This recently initiated project has resulted, thus far in the
following
1. A strategy has been devised that is useful and effective in
constructing a variety of such bacterial mutants.
2. A collection of such strains has been obtained and their
characterization has been initiated
3 Initial results indicate that such strains are useful for
analytical purposes, especially with respect to complex
mixtures.
4. These preliminary studies have revealed that bacteria
possess a diversity of enzymes that are involved in the
bioconversion not only of nitroarenes but of other
metabolites of environmental interest, such as the aromatic
amines as well.
5. The most unexpected finding of these preliminary studies
has been the discovery of a, heretofore unsuspected
enzyme which specifically estenfies arylhydroxylammes.
The role of this enzyme the mutagemcity of aromatic
amines as well as of nitroarenes and its possible presence
in mammalian cells will be a major thrust of future studies
as it is, presumably, also involved in the carcinogenic
process
FY-82
18
-------
Title:
Nitropyrenes. Do They Constitute an Environmental Hazard for Man'
Principal In vestigator:
Herbert S
Rosenkranz
Institution:
Case Western
Reserve University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(3 years} $342.301
EPA Project Number:
R809476
Recently it was recognized that nitropyrenes as well as other
nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (nitroarenes) are
widely distributed in the environment chiefly as a result of the
replacement of the gasoline-powered passenger car by diesel-
driven automobiles. This dieselization trend is projected to
continue. Because nitropyrenes as well as other nitroarenes are
highly mutagenic in a number of systems and as some of them
have been reported to be cancer-causing as well, it is of
importance to determine the biochemical basis of these varied
mechanisms of action This project addresses the problem at the
cellular and organismic level. The biotransformation, reaction of
the metabolites with cellular DNA and the repair of the affected
DNA is being investigated
This recently initiated project has already shown that there is a
basic dichotomy in the biotransformation of some nitroarenes in
bacterial and mammalian systems. This may account for the
extraordinarily potent activity of these chemicals in microbial.
systems.
A matrix was developed to extract additional information from
bacterial mutagemcity assays performed in the presence as well
as the absence of mammalian enzymes such as to obtain clues
regarding mechanisms These can then be followed with specific
studies. Indeed, using the nitroarene 5-nitroacenaphthene the
value of this method has been proven as it demonstrated the
existence of additional pathways
Recently, a new form of DNA, the Z-DNA, has been
recognized. The role of this newly discovered DNA in cancer-
causation is, as yet, not established It is known, however, that
some cancer-causing chemicals, including the bioconversion
products of the nitroarenes may react with Z-DNA to yield
unusual structures In addition, the reaction of such metabolites
with "normal" DNA may also induce it to assume the Z-
configuration. In an attempt to evaluate the role of this DNA with
respect to the induction of mutations and cancer, we have
attempted to develop a predictive assay that will enable us to
determine the role of Z-DNA in biological phenomena. Our
preliminary results indicate that we may have succeeded in
developing a rapid as well as a simple assay capable of
ascertaining whether or not an environmental chemical or its
metabolites may induce the Z-DNA conformation. This will
enable us to screen for such chemicals in the environment.
19
FY-82
-------
Title:
Investigation of the Transport and Diffusion of Pollutants in Complex Terrain Using a
Numerical Model
Principal Investigator:
Roger A. Pielke
Institution:
Colorado State
University
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $59,606
EPA Project Number:
R810471
The overall objective of this research is to utilize a primitive
equation mesoscale model in order to simulate atmospheric flow
patterns induced by complex terrain, and to examine the impact
of these flow fields on the transport and diffusion of air
pollutants By comparing the mesoscale model results with
available observations from previous and current field
experiments (including those of EPA in complex terrain), we are
quantitatively establishing the degree of accuracy of the model
Our work utilizes the mesoscale model predicted winds and
turbulence characteristics in order to provide input to a semi-
stochastic transport and diffusion simulator Also called the
Lagrangian conditioned particle scheme, this approach permits
the estimation of the spread of a pollutant from a point source m
a region in which there are substantial temporal and spatial
variations in the flow field Using new observational information
on turbulent scales and boundary layer structure in complex
terrain, we also expect to improve and refine this
parameterization of the spread of plumes and puffs
Our modelling experiments are performed on both idealized
and real terrain configurations The simpler, ideal topography
provides the needed insight into the physical mechanisms
involved with flow in complex terrain, while simulations of actual
geographic regions establishes the quantitative limits of our
model.
A major practical result of our studies will be the
establishment of a tool with which to estimate the pollution
concentrations in irregular terrain which result from specific
sources of air pollution. A substantial improvement to the
current operational procedures, the use of a mesoscale model,
will also provide the scientific explanation for the mechanisms of
formation and evolution of flows which develop in complex
terrain.
FY-82
20
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Title:
New Fuel Additives for Reducing Pollutants from Combustion
Principal In vestigator:
Prof. Robert E
Sievers
Institution:
University of
Colorado
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $272.099
EPA Project Number:
R808312
This research program is a study of the effects of novel fuel
additives on gaseous exhaust emissions. These investigations
involve the synthesis and characterization of new lanthanide and
transition metal chelates and a study of the effects of these
compounds when dissolved in fuels on the formation and
emission of carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and
oxides of nitrogen (NO,) from internal combustion engines.
Experimentally, exhaust from a test engine will be monitored
with infrared, chemilummescent, gas chromatographic, and
mass spectrometric instrumentation, which will allow sensitive
and selective evaluation of additive effects on exhaust gas
emissions Such data may lead to new insights and
understanding of the manner in which combustion is modified in
the presence of metal species. In addition, a study of a novel
means of regenerating poisoned catalytic converters by
formation of noble metal films during combustion will be made.
The expected result is knowledge of whether certain novel fuel-
soluble additives will reduce noxious emissions from combustion
sources
21
FY-82
-------
Title:
The Destruction of Hazardous Organic Substances in a Slagging Gasifier Environment
and the Encapsulation of Toxic Heavy Metal Compounds in a Nonleachable Vitreous
Matrix
Principal Investigator:
Helmut W. Schulz
Institution:
Columbia University
Project Period:
15 months
Budget:
(15 months)
$269,230
EPA Project Number:
R808965
This project expects to determine the technical feasibility of
utilizing the Simplex gasification process for hazardous waste
disposal. The Simplex process produces a clean, medium heating
value fuel gas from a bnquetted feed of coal and municipal
wastes, without generating stack emissions or contaminated
residues. The process has the potential for disposing of a wide
variety of toxic wastes, including halogenated hydrocarbons and
heavy metals
The project addresses two separate, but interrelated, research
investigations which are superimposed on a fully developed
process for the slagging gasification of a bnquetted feedstock
comprising Eastern bituminous coal and cellulosic waste
materials (such as urban waste or forest debris).
It is proposed to demonstrate hazardous waste destruction by
the pulsed addition of toxic wastes into the prototype Simplex
gasifier. Experimental work will address two waste types which
are treated separately in this proposal Highly refractory analogs
of PCBs and other toxic organics (Part A) and industrial sludges
containing heavy metals (Part B).
Part A of the proposed research will provide quantitative data
on the completeness of destruction, at varying throughput rates,
of such refractory analogs as hexachlorobenzene. These
substances will be introduced into the hearth of a slagging
gasifier where they encounter the pyrolytic environment of
incandescent char at a temperature of 3000 degrees F in the
presence of steam and pure oxygen The residence time at
temperatures above 2000 degrees F is believed to be more than
adequate to ensure complete thermal degradation in a single
pass
Part B calls for a quantitative determination of the degree to
which heavy metal compounds present in industrial or sanitary
sludges are captured and encapsulated in the vitreous slag
tapped from the hearth of the gasifier. To the extent that small
concentrations of heavy metals are carried over with the crude
product gas, they are condensed and recovered with the tars and
recycled to the hearth of the gasifier Part B also includes a
determination of the comparative resistance to leaching by
ground water of the heavy metal compounds encapsulated in the
fritted slag
In addition to providing the quantitative analytical data just
described, the study will demonstrate the technical feasibility of
employing the Simplex and biomass gasification process as a
cost-effective vehicle for the disposal of toxic waste materials.
FY-82
22
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Title:
Anaerobic Digestion of Waste Activated Sludge
Principal In vestigator:
James M Gossett
Institution:
Cornell University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $141.376
EPA Project Number:
R809500
In the literature, there are numerous reports concerning the
anaerobic digestion of waste activated sludge (WAS) However,
no comprehensive models exist which allow the prediction of
digester performance as a function of activated sludge process
parameters Based upon previous studies by the Principal
Investigator, a model has been proposed which attempts to
predict: (1) ultimate anaerobic digestibility of WAS as a function
of activated sludge influent and process parameters (such as
solids retention time); and (2) anaerobic digester performance as
a function of ultimate digestibility and digestion parameters
(such as solids retention time in the anaerobic process). The
ultimate digestibility portion of the model has been previously
validated. However, the portion concerning kinetics has not been
rigorously tested The model postulates that membrane-
protected viable WAS cells become available substrate to
anaerobic organisms at a rate which is first-order with respect to
the remaining concentration of viable cells in the digester.
The purpose of this investigation is to experimentally evaluate
the model. Semi-continuous digestion studies at a variety of
retention times and influent concentrations will be performed,
using WAS which has been generated in the laboratory. The
effects of preliminary disruption of cell membranes upon
digestion kinetics will be evaluated. Batch studies examining the
rate of WAS solubilization in the presence of various
concentrations of digester sludge will also be part of this
investigation.
Thus far, eight laboratory-scale digesters have been set up and
are operating on a WAS feed (laboratory generated). These
digesters are continuously-mixed and fed hourly (approximating
continuous flow conditions) Two solids feed concentrations are
being employed, and four solids retention times. Steady-state
conditions have not yet been achieved.
23
FY-82
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Title:
Qualitative Environmental Impact Assessment. Marine Plankton Communities
Principal In vestigator:
Patricia A. Lane
Institution:
Dalhousie University
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 year si $93,254
EPA Project Number:
R810520
The objectives of this study are: 1) to apply a qualitative
ecosystem analysis to a set of field and laboratory marine
plankton communities; 2) to evaluate the qualitative models with
a set of new community structure-stability descriptors; 3) to
compare all communities with these descriptors to identify the
underlying core structure, 4) to generate all of the necessary
computer software to handle the qualitative techniques; and 5)
to study and develop model verification procedures and selection
of the "best fit" model The overall research goal is to develop a
new way of characterizing natural communities that has
predictive capabilities in terms of evaluating the cause-effect
pathways of stresses to ecological systems.
The research approach centers on loop analysis, a qualitative
network technique, that facilitates the identification of
ecosystem structure and functional relationships. To date, five
ecosystems have been modelled and an underlying core
structure has been identified. We have been able to document
shifts in system sensitivity to stress in ecosystems undergoing
nutrient enrichment. We can outline the causal pathways
between a stress to these networks and all variables within the
network.
Expected results from this study include a rigorous testing of
loop analysis as a tool for enhancing understanding of
ecosystems undergoing stress and preliminary application of this
tool for improving current methods of environmental impact
assessment. Present assessment methods include costly
computer simulations which are strongly quantitative and
require large detailed data sets. Loop analysis could reduce the
amounts of data needed with a concurrent increase in
understanding and a substantial decrease in overall assessment
costs. Thus, instead of measuring everything, loop analysis
would indicate what is really necessary to measure in a complex
ecological system.
FY-82
24
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Title:
Teratogenic Evaluation of Chronic Heavy Metal Exposure
Principal Investigator:
Vergil H. Ferm
Institution:
Dartmouth Medical
School,
Hanover, NH 03755
Pro/act Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years] $183.679
EPA Project Number:
R810078
This study will evaluate a method for the in vivo study of
chronic-subacute exposure of the pregnant animal to certain
heavy metals and arsenate, all of which are potentially
significant environmental threats. The metals to be studied have
well-defined teratogenic endpomts in our animal model,
following acute bolus doses To study chronic-subacute
exposure, we will implant osmotic minipumps into the pregnant
hamsters during the early states of gestation. This method will
assure a sustained and consistent supply of the teratogen to the
maternal and embryonic system during the early period of
pregnancy—a period which corresponds to the first 30 days of
human gestation—and the time during which the embryo is most
susceptible to teratogenic agents. This technique might well
have several advantages over acute bolus or in vitro techniques
currently being used for teratogenic testing. It certainly is more
realistic as a method of exposure to environmental teratogens
than are the other methods. It retains the normal physiological
status of an intact materno-placental-embryonic unit Both the
amount and length of exposure to these molecular teratogens
can be accurately controlled. The second part of our project
proposes to explore certain aspects of the biochemical state of
each of the selected teratogens in the materno-embryonic unit
during teratogenesis. We are particularly interested in
determining the degree to which the concentration and chemical
status of each teratogen in specific tissues of the maternal and
embryonic systems correlates with the level of teratogenic
response. This information could help pinpoint the site (or sites)
of teratogenic insult and could lead to an explanation of the
mechanism of heavy metal-induced teratogenesis. These studies
should determine whether or not this method offers a more
accurate and realistic measure of the teratogenic threat of
environmentally significant heavy metals than current bolus type
studies.
FY-82
-------
Title:
Oxidation of Cyanides in Industrial Wastewaters by Ozone: Kinetics and Mechanism
Principal In vestigator:
Dr. Mirat D. Gurol
Institution:
Drexel University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $139,900
EPA Project Number:
R809613
Wastewaters generated by various industrial activities contain
substantial quantities of cyanide compounds whose discharge
into environment might create serious ecological problems
Ozone is capable of oxidizing these compounds
The primary objective of this research is to generate the
fundamental kinetic and mechanistic data about the ozonation of
1) simple cyanides, 2) the reaction intermediate, cyanate, and 3)
the complexes of cyanide with various metals, i e., Cd, Zn, Cu, Ni,
Fe. The experiments are performed in batch reactors under
quiescent conditions. A Stop Flow Analyzer is used to study the
kinetics of the fast reactions. Attention is given to distinguishing
between the oxidation by molecular ozone, and the oxidation by
free radicals arising as decomposition products of ozone It is
also the objective to develop dynamic models describing the
overall rate of cyanide removal in continuous flow ozone reactors
where the kinetics of mass transfer of ozone become relevant.
The data produced in batch reactors will be incorporated into the
models. The models will be tested by comparing their predictions
for cyanide, cyanate, and ozone concentrations in the effluent,
and for the ozone consumption with the measurements obtained
under various experimental conditions in a Continuous Flow
Stirred Tank Reactor
It is expected that the results of this study will provide the
engineers with the essential tools for designing and operating
the ozone reactors, and will contribute to the literature on
mechanisms of ozonation reactions.
FY-82
26
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Title:
Role of Lipid Peroxidation in Air Pollutant Toxicity
Principal In vestigator:
Daniel B. Menzel
Institution:
Duke University
Medical Center
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $172,000
EPA Project Number:
R809283
The proposed studies are directed to evaluate the role of lipid
peroxidation in Oa and NOa toxicity. An initial objective is to test
the effect of incorporating specific unsaturated fatty acids into
lung lipids on the toxicity of Oa and NC>2, and to relate this
toxicity to the theoretical formation of prostaglandm-like
endoperoxides Only fatty acids having 3 or more ethylenic
groups are capable of forming endoperoxides. If the toxic effect
of lipid peroxidation initiated by 03 and NOa is caused by
endoperoxides, then the feeding of diets which increase lung
monoenoic or dienoic fatty acids should have little effect on the
toxicity, whereas a diet which increases the trienoic and
polyenoic fatty acid content should exacerbate toxicity. These
studies will evaluate the effect of the type of lung fatty acid
unsaturation rather than the extent of unsaturation alone
(peroxidizability index) on oxidant injury.
A second objective is to evaluate the effects of Oa and NOa
exposure on the kinetics of vitamin E uptake and turnover in the
lung. Vitamin E is the major dietary factor affecting the toxicity of
Oa to mice and rats and of NOa to rats Changes in lung fatty acid
composition observed after Oa exposure may be a reflection of
changes in the tissue vitamin E levels Vitamin E and its
metabolites will be determined in the lungs of mice fed defined
diets and exposed to Oa or NOa.
A third objective is to correlate these effects with those
occurring in man. Because there is a need to extrapolate animal
exposures to humans, simple tests of oxidant injury applicable to
man will be investigated RBC filterability has been used as an
index of injury for other toxicants and may be useful to
quantitate Oa and NOa injury to mice fed defined diets The
exhalation of ethane and pentane is also easily adapted to man
and will be used to estimate Oa and NOa catalyzed peroxidation
in vivo and its prevention by vitamin E.
These studies will provide direction for human studies and,
together with the literature on other effects of O3 and NO2, will
aid EPA in fulfilling its role in setting standards.
27
FY-82
-------
Title:
Corona Wind and Turbulence in Full Scale Electrostatic Precipitators
Principal Investigator:
Edward J.
Shaughnessy
Institution:
Duke University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $189,713
EPA Project Number:
R809727
The production of turbulence in full scale electrostatic
precipitators by corona wind will be investigated using a new
large aspect ratio wire to plate model precipitator Hot-wire
anemometer surveys of the turbulence at the inlet and exit of the
precipitator section will be obtained at various air speeds and
current densities under particle free, cold gas conditions. Mean
velocity profiles, mean square velocity fluctuation profiles, and
the power spectra of the turbulence will be examined for
evidence of turbulence production by the electrical body force
The model precipitator will have an aspect ratio of 20 at a 10
inch plate to plate spacing, and will operate at flowspeeds of 1 to
10 ft/sec The aerodynamic turbulence of the facility will be
characterized by hot-wire surveys with the current off These
results will be compared with profiles taken with the corona
current at various current densities spanning the commercial
range of interest Both positive and negative corona will be
employed The primary questions of interest are whether there is
significant production of turbulence due solely to the corona
current, and if so, how this production mechanism varies with
flow speed, current density, and polarity.
FY-82
-------
Title:
Fate of Viruses and Trace Organics in a Cypress Strand Treated with Chlorinated Primary
Effluent at Waldo, Florida
Principal Investigator:
Gabriel Bitton and
Samuel R Farrah
Institution:
University of Florida
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $195.000
EPA Project Number
R809402
This research proposal deals with the public health aspects of
sewage disposal in wetlands, particularly cypress strands which
are "slow flowing" wetlands A cypress strand in Waldo, Florida,
has been receiving chlorinated primary effluents for several
years We need to know more about the survival pattern of
bacterial and viral pathogens as well as the formation of
mutagenic compounds in these highly colored (with humic/fulvic
substances) waters
During the first year of this project we will attempt to develop
the methodology for virus recovery from these highly colored
waters and from the underlying sediments We will also
determine the decay rates of laboratory-grown viruses, bacteria
and phages in survival chambers under in situ conditions in the
cypress strands. In addition, two experimental corridors have
been constructed in the swamp and will be used to determine
the capacity of the strand to remove bacteria and viruses
Sewage will be pumped into these corridors, and viruses, phages
and bacterial indicators will be monitored before and after their
passage through the corridors.
The second year will be devoted to monthly monitoring of
indigenous viruses in the cypress strand to determine the
potential of these low-energy systems to remove viruses We will
also monitor trace organics in the chlorinated primary effluents,
as well as in sediments and water in the cypress strand The
mutagenicity and identity of the isolated trace organics will be
determined using short-term bacterial assays and GC-MS,
respectively If mutagenic chlorinated compounds are found we
will experimentally determine the potential of fulvic/humic
substances present in strand water to form mutagenic
substances under conditions prevailing in the cypress strand
29
FY-82
-------
Title:
Electrostatic and Hydrophobic Interactions in Virus Adsorption to Solids
Principal In vestigator:
Dr. SamuelR. Farrah
Institution:
University of
Florida
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $149.299
EPA Project Number
R810126
The association of viruses with solids such as membrane
filters, soils, sediments, and wastewater sludges has been the
subject of several previous investigations These studies have
shown the importance of electrostatic interactions in
determining virus adsorption to solids. More recently, the
contribution of hydrophobic interactions to virus adsorption to
solids has been investigated The mam objective of this study
will be to determine the relative contributions of both
electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions in the adsorption of
different viruses to a variety of solids. By studying the factors
involved in virus adsorption, we hope to be better able to explain
certain results such as the reported differences in the ability of
viruses to adsorb to a particular solid such as soil. Also, we
would like to explain the differences in the abilities of different
solids to adsorb a particular virus under different conditions In
most cases, viral adsorption to solids will be studied by
measuring the level of virus adsorbed to a solid Viruses will be
measured as infectious plaque-forming units The effect of
solutions that either promote or interfere with electrostatic or
hydrophobic interactions on the extent of virus adsorption will be
examined Results of this study should help in determining the
relative strengths of the forces maintaining virus adsorption to
solids under different conditions This will permit a better
understanding of the factors that influence the distribution of
viruses in the environment. By better understanding the factors
influencing virus adsorption to and elution from solids, we hope
to develop more efficient and simpler procedures for recovering
viruses from environmental samples In summary, the basic
factors involved in virus adsorption to solids will be studied. The
results should permit a better understanding of virus distribution
in the environment and permit development of better procedures
for detecting viral contamination in the environment
FY-82
30
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Title:
Vegetation Development in an Alaskan Salt Marsh
Principal In vestigator:
Susan W. Vince
Institution:
Center for Wetlands
University of Florida
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $139,869
EPA Project Number:
R809874
Alaskan salt marshes have received little ecological study
despite their extent, productivity, and importance for waterfowl
populations The proposed research seeks to identify patterns of
vegetation development and to determine the mechanisms
governing these processes on Susitna Flats, a marsh on the
south-central Alaska coast. Three types of techniques—
quantitative plant and environmental analysis, laboratory
experiments, and controlled field manipulations—will be
employed Plant species composition and production, tidal
exposure, sedimentation rate, and substrate characteristics will
be measured at a variety of sites on Susitna Flats, providing a
description of successional processes. Whether plant zonation is
in fact homologous with temporal succession will be determined
by examination of the vertical accretion of plant debris in the
sediment, by comparison of the vegetation of sites of differing
ages, and by observation of long-term vegetation changes in
marked plots. Laboratory and field experiments are designed to
test hypotheses concerning the reasons for the delay in
appearance of most plant species on new sites, and the
disappearance in time of the colonizers. The specific and
combined effects on plant growth of presumed driving forces-
soil type, salinity, waterlogging, and nutrient availability—will be
determined. It is anticipated that this experimental approach will
enable predictions of plant community response to both natural
(e.g. earthquakes) and human disturbances
31
FY-82
-------
Title:
Oxidative Destruction of Organic Groundwater Contaminants
Principal Investigator:
James N Butler
Institution:
Harvard University,
Division of
Applied Sciences
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 year si $142,350
EPA Project Number:
808209
Contamination of groundwater by toxic chemicals has led to
abandonment of water supplies, or to costly installation of
treatment systems based on activated carbon The objective of
this project is to investigate methods for oxidative destruction of
these contaminants Methods will include ozone, ozone together
with ultraviolet irradiation, and singlet oxygen generated by
reaction between hypochlonte and hydrogen peroxide
Experimental research will consist of measuring the extent of
reaction and nature of products for a selected list of compounds
(e g , chloroform, dichloroethylene, trichloroethylene,
tetrachloroethylene, dichloroethane, trichloroethane, vinyl
chloride, chlorobenzene, etc ), all of which have been found as
pollutants in groundwater supplies Primary variables will
include reagent concentration, pH, temperature, etc. The
reactions will be followed by gas chromatography with
confirmation of peaks by gas chromatography/mass
spectrometry Special efforts will be made to identify reaction
mechanisms and interferences characteristic of the ppm level in
fresh water
Results of this investigation should make it possible to design
treatment systems for a groundwater supply known to be
polluted by a particular set of chemicals, and to optimize the cost
of such treatment
FY-82
32
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Title:
Toxicity of Priority Pollutants on Tropical Oceanic Plankton
Principal Investigator:
Jed Hirota
Institution:
University of
Hawaii, Manoa
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $326,882
EPA Project Number:
R809916
Our project funded by EPA has two major objectives 1)
develop new methods and techniques to enable the careful, live
collection, handling, and laboratory cultivation of tropical,
oceanic plankton for their entire life cycle from egg back to egg,
and 2) evaluate the effects of halomethane and haloamine
chemical species, which result from the chlormation of
seawater, on these selected plankton species at sublethal,
chronic exposures. The research plan is to begin with gentle
collection methods and cultivation techniques first, and then to
proceed on with the toxicity testing and "bioassays" after the
new techniques and feeding conditions are determined
The expected results from this project include new information
on the methods, techniques and data required for the successful
cultivation of these tropic oceanic plankters over their entire life
cycles (e.g., their rates of growth, reproduction and feeding).
These data are not currently available for virtually all of the
commonly occurring oceanic species of plankton in the tropical
regions Secondly, we expect to develop some new bioassay
measures to evaluate subtle changes to animal growth,
reproduction and feeding rates in response to sublethal, chronic
exposures to the major byproducts of chlormation of seawater
It is anticipated that this new information will be useful and
applicable to an evaluation of effects of low levels of chlormation
of seawater (as a biocide and anti-foulmg agent) for future OTEC
(Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion) power plants and also for
existing wastewater or conventional power generating plants
Our studies are being geared toward an assessment of the
potential effects of seawater chlorination in the far-field plumes
of discharges of any type on tropical oceanic plankters.
33
FY-82
-------
Title:
Scintigraphic Studies of the Pharmacokmetics of Delayed Neurotoxins
Principal Investigator:
Larry G. Hansen
Institution:
University of
Illinois
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $114,904
EPA Project Number:
R809845
The summary objectives of the project are to define the early
movement of organophosphorus "delayed neurotoxins" within
the laying hen The hen is the standard model animal because 1)
many other species are resistant to these effects and 2) the
effects are irreversible so that human studies cannot be
conducted The compounds differ from many other similar
pesticides in certain chemical properties, but very similar
compounds may have very dissimilar potencies. Compound
access to the central nervous system shortly after exposure
appears to determine the severity of ataxia and/or paralysis
several days later Methods are to be developed and used to
evaluate this early distribution which is, to date, very difficult to
monitor in the laying hen. Potent and less potent analogs will be
compared.
Methods will include gamma counting and gamma imaging
with 125I analogs as well as traditional 14C tracer studies The
initial phase is to synthesize active analogs containing iodine
(activity will be tested in hens). It is anticipated that differences
in absorption, disposition and biotransformation will account, at
least in part, for divergent potencies in closely related analogs.
FY-82
34
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Title:
Role of Surface Active Media in Expanded-Bed Anaerobic Filters
Principal Investigator:
Makram T. Suidan
and Bruce E.
Ritlmann
Institution:
University of
Illinois at
Urbana-Champaign
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $167.355
EPA Project Number:
R809750
The overall objective of this research project is to determine
the effect of surface activity of granular activated carbon on
biofilm accumulation characteristics in completely mixed,
expanded-bed anaerobic filters. The research will test the
hypothesis that superior biofilm accumulation allows lower
effluent concentrations and will determine the cause of better
attachment. In addition, the research will develop a fundamental
kinetic model that will be used to design the most fruitful
experiments for evaluating the important concepts and
determining the operational limits of the process. Granular
activated carbon represents a surface-active-attachment
medium, while crushed anthracite coal, of an equal mesh size,
represents a non-surface-active medium Biofilm accumulation
and substrate utilization characteristics for various loadings of
two substrates, acetate and phenol, will be evaluated Acetate is
selected in order to provide knowledge of biofilm attachment and
utilization kinetics for the sensitive and slow-growing
methanogemc organisms Phenol, on the other hand, represents
a substrate that would result in the growth of mixed cultures of
methanogenic and nonmethanogenic organisms The strong
adsorption characteristics of phenol will also permit the
evaluation of the role of substrate adsorption by activated carbon
on the attachment and accumulation of methanogens.
The anaerobic filter performance will be modeled using a
mathematical representation that includes substrate transport
and utilization, biomass growth and decay, and biomass attrition
due to hydrodynamic shear forces The mathematical model will
be used in selecting experimental loading conditions that will
optimize the evaluation of reactor performance over a wide
range of process conditions
35
FY-82
-------
Title:
Effects of Microwave Exposure on the Mammalian Immune System
Principal Investigator:
Wayne A Tompkins
Institution:
University of Illinois
Urbana, IL61801
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
12 years) $323,328
EPA Project Number:
R809566
The principal objectives of the proposed research are to
determine the effects of Microwave (MW) exposure on the
immune response in mammals and to determine quantitative
relationships between threshold and super-threshold exposure
parameters and observed immunological alterations This
proposal will investigate the effect of acute high dose and
chronic low dose exposure of MW radiation on the mammalian
immune system using several mouse and hamster test systems
These objectives will be attained by studying the effects of MW
on hamster and mice natural immunity and their ability to
respond immunologically to a) vacinma virus, b) synthetic T-
dependent and T-mdependent antigens, and c) mitogens. Well
defined in vitro assay systems, to test for MW induced
immunodepression or immune stimulation, will be used studying
a) antibody responses, b) T cell responses, c) macrophage, and d)
natural killer activity
The immune systems comprising of complex network of
interacting cells involving helper, suppressor and effector
functions is believed to be extremely sensitive to MW induced
perturbations MW exposure has been shown to cause immune
suppression and other system changes If MW at same intensity
and exposure duration have immunosuppressive effects, the
greatest risk of such exposure might represent increased
susceptibility to virus infections. From the study on different
parameters of immunity to vaccinia virus and other antigens, we
will be able to make precise quantitative determinations of
intensity and duration of MW exposure required to produce
immune system changes. This information will be of major
significance in determining MW exposure safety standards
FY-82
36
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Title:
Fates of Organic Compounds from Niagara Falls Dumpsites in Lake Ontario
Principal Investigator:
Or Fiona Id A Hites
Institution:
Indiana University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $115,422
EPA Project Number:
R808961
Objectives:
Toxic organics have been leached and are being leached from
dumpsites in Niagara Falls into the Niagara River and into Lake
Ontario. The major objective of this project is to determine the
long-term fates of those compounds which enter Lake Ontario in
this way Ten to twenty compounds, which have already been
identified, will be investigated in lake sediment and biota A
considerable effort will be spent mapping the fluxes to the
sediment of these compounds Flux measurements will allow
intercompanson of data and the calculation of mass balances To
obtain a flux three measurements are required (a) compound
concentration in sediment on a dry weight basis, (b)
sedimentation rate, and (c) in-situ density of sediment Previous
work indicates that a typical flux for polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons in Lake Superior is about 0.3 ng cm'2 yr~1 All of
these measurements will be made on sediment core samples
sliced at centimeter intervals. Extracts will be fractionated on
silica gel and concentrations of compounds determined by
selected ion monitoring mass spectrometry. Sedimentation rates
will be determined using lead-210, cesium-137 and ragweed
pollen. In-situ density measurements will be made using
standard procedures. Measurements will be obtained on 40 core
samples taken at different locations to allow a mapping of fluxes
in the Lake for each compound Fish and benthic organisms will
also be studied to provide a picture of bioaccumulation.
Expected Results of
Research:
The basic information to be obtained is a contour mapping of
the fluxes to the sediment of about 20 organics from the
dumpsites and bioaccumulation in fish and benthic organisms
Because of the unique nature of some of these compounds the
movement from dumpsite to sediment can be traced. Rough
mass balances will be obtained from the flux measurements to
provide an approximation of the amount of material from the
dumpsites which has entered the lake sediments. Data from
samples taken in later years will allow disappearance of these
compounds from the system to be determined
FY-82
-------
Title:
Developments at the Eleventh International Conference on Water Pollution Research
Principal Investigator:
F. G Pohland
Institution:
United States of
America National
Committee for the
International
Association on
Water Pollution
Research
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
II year) $52,260
EPA Project Number:
R809703
This project provides a report which gives a current
assessment of developments in water pollution research
throughout the world. The report is based on information
gathered at the Eleventh International Conference on Water
Pollution Research, held at Cape Town, South Africa, March 29 -
April 2, 1982 The Conference brought together research
engineers and scientists, consulting engineers, manufacturers of
process control equipment, administrators of water quality
control programs and others involved in water pollution control.
Approximately 30 of the engineers and scientists attending the
Conference from the USA participated in the preparation of this
report Each participant submitted a summary on developments
at an assigned session of the Conference for inclusion in the
overall report. Both formal and informal developments are
covered, including pertinent comments and ideas brought out in
discussion of presented papers and among attending
researchers Copies of the report, "Development at Eleventh
International Conference on Water Pollution Research," dated
February 1983 are available from the EPA
FY-82
38
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Title:
The Guidance of Airflow by an Isolated Valley
Principal Investigator:
Ronald Dobosy
Institution:
Iowa State
University
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(2 years) $49,567
EPA Project Number:
R809588
Several studies in moderate-relief complex terrain have found
that valleys guide air flow. Parameterization of this guidance
should improve plume trajectory forecasts in dispersion models.
To be applicable in general terrain the parameterization should
be derived from basic physical understanding; this must begin
from careful study of a simple valley isolated from other terrain.
We have evolved a hypothetical explanation of the valley effect
which we propose to test and refine, starting with a numerical
model adapted from existing models. The numerical results will
be used to develop a detailed field plan to verify and further
refine the hypothesis We intend to execute the field plan in a
subsequent project, but limited initial tests with existing
equipment are planned for this project
The field plan will apply to a straight section of the Des Moines
River Valley in central Iowa, a 75-m deep 1000-m wide valley in
terrain otherwise flat except for widely separated creeks. The
relative simplicity of this terrain will allow our findings and-plans
to be useful to similar projects.
39
FY-82
-------
Title:
Theory and Applications of Direct Filtration
Principal Investigator:
Charles Ft O'Mel/a
Institution:
Johns Hopkins
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $104,323
EPA Project Number:
Ft 810094
The general objective of this research is to relate the design of
direct filtration facilities in water treatment to the quality of the
raw water to be treated. More specifically, interrelationships
among packed bed filter performance as characterized by
effluent quality and head loss development, flocculation facilities
as described by velocity gradients and reaction time, and raw
water quality as represented by solids concentration and particle
size distribution will be assessed, developed as needed,
evaluated theoretically and experimentally, and appraised as
bases for design.
The work is divided into two phases. The first phase involves
adaptation of existing concepts to the direct filtration process
and the use of sensitivity analyses to identify important
characteristics of the process. The second phase entails
experimental testing and application of the model and the
development of bases for process design
The expected results have potential for providing improved
methods for the design and operation of direct filtration facilities
FY-82
40
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Title:
Aerosol Deposition in the Human Oral Passage
Principal Investigator:
David L. Swift. Ph.D.
Institution:
Johns Hopkins
University School of
Hygiene and
Public Health
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $155,914
EPA Project Number:
R809074
The overall objective of this research program is to determine
the percent deposition of inhaled aerosols in the human oral
passage under normal breathing conditions as a function of the
breathing rate, aerosol particle size, and oral passage
configuration The objective is to be met by a series of
experimental studies in normal human subjects in which
radlolabelled monodisperse particles will be inhaled at controlled
conditions by mouth without a breathing tube. This period of
inhalation will be followed by a measurement of deposition
employing a gamma scintillation camera. The results of the study
will be a series of curves of percent oral passage deposition vs
particle size depending on the oral passage configurations
and/or airway resistance
The project has been underway since September 1982;
equipment is in construction but no experiments have been
carried out at present.
41
FY-82
-------
Title:
Evaluation on the Toxicologic Effects of Environmental Carcinogens with Human Tissue
Model Systems
Principal Investigator-
Ih-Chang Hsu
Institution:
Department of
Pathology
University of
Maryland School of
Medicine
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years! $148,089
EPA Project Number:
R809835
The objectives of this proposed research are to determine the
genotoxic hazards of the aromatic nitrogen pollutants, i e ,
naphthylammes, ammoanthracenes, aniline, ammobiphenyls,
ammopyrenes and nitropyrenes, on target cells or tissues of
different animal species including humans Metabolism,
activation and genotoxic effects of these carcinogens in these
tissues or cells will be compared so as to serve as a valid basis
for extrapolation from animal data to humans
Human pulmonary alveolar macrophases (RAM), bronchial
explants, and hepatocytes of human and rats are now routinely
prepared in my laboratory Some of the cells are being treated
with ammopyrene, ammoanthracene, naphthylamme,
ammobiphenyls, etc The active metabolites generated by the
cells will be measured by the mutation frequency in co-cultivated
indicator Chinese hamster V79 cells Unscheduled DMA
synthesis and carcinogen DNA binding will also be determined in
the treated cells for comparing DNA damage The metabolites in
the media will also be quantitated and evaluated for the
relationship to their genotoxic effects. Since determination of
metabolites and carcinogen DNA adducts are very time
consuming, especially without radiolabeled compounds, it is
unlikely to determine the adduct and metabolites in 2 years for
all aromatic amines listed above. We will focus on ammopyrene
and nitropyrene and label them with tritium for comparing
adduct formation and metabolism m the cells of humans and
rodents Nitropyrene has been demonstrated recently to be the
most important genotoxic compound in diesel fuel emissions It
is too early to predict the difference of genotoxicity in cells of
different animal species Parallel experiments for measuring
these effects are being conducted in human and rodent cells so
that the comparison of the results can provide a link between
animal cancer studies and human cancer
FY-82
42
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Title:
Interspecies Comparison of Liver Carcmogenesis
Principal Investigator:
Dr Michael Lipsky
Institution:
University of
Maryland
Baltimore, MD
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years/ $259,967
EPA Project Number:
R809599
Objectives:
The overall goals of the proposed research are (A) To
investigate quantitative relationships between molecular and
subcellular events presumed to be important in the carcinogenic
process (such as the amount of carcmogen-DNA adducts formed)
and end points of organismal response (such as the number of
neoplasms formed) in a target organ, (B) To develop a
scientifically sound basis for reliable, quantitative extrapolation
of data from animal studies to man This will be accomplished by
comparing unscheduled DMA synthesis (UDS), metabolism,
carcmogen-DNA adducts, mutagenic activity, preneoplastic
lesion formation and neoplasm formation between different
species including rats, mice and rainbow trout in vivo and
between primary hepatocyte culture from humans, rats, mice
and trout in vitro using aflatoxm B1 and diethylmtrosamine
which are positive hepatocarcmogens in some species and
negative in at least one
Expected Results of
Research:
The proposed research will provide new insights into
quantitative relationships between different events presumed to
be important in the process of chemical carcmogenesis This
project will add new data to help validate or question the validity
of the somatic mutation hypothesis of chemical carcmogenesis
In terms of the general populations, the proposed research will
help establish a valid scientific basis for quantitative risk
assessment and extrapolation from animal data to man
Although a great deal of federal regulation and legislation is
directly related to risk assessment of environmental hazards and
quantitative extrapolation from animal studies to the human
situation, little hard scientific data is available to lend support
and guidance to the extrapolation process The proposed
research will be a step to establishing this scientific base This
can have implications in the legislative and regulatory processes,
and in evaluating human risk to provide a basis for primary
cancer prevention.
43
FY-82
-------
Title
Insufficient Disinfection of Water Supplies Attributable to Chlorine Residual Monitoring
Principal in vestigator:
Neil M Ram, PhD
Institution:
University of
Massachusetts/
Amherst
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $60,209
EPA Project Number:
R809767
A secure hygienic quality in water supplies is dependent upon
the maintenance of a free chlorine residual The available
analytical methods used to differentiate between free and
combined chlorine, however, are subject to interference from
nitrogenous organic compounds An apparent residual measured
as 0 2 mg/L "free chlorine" may therefore not provide a
sufficient level of disinfection in the presence of N-organic
compounds While it is possible to calculate the contribution of
these N-organic materials to falsely positive tests for free
chlorine, this determination requires prior knowledge of the
exact concentration and types of N-organic compounds present
as well as their relative specific rates of formation The objective
of this study, therefore, is to determine the true level of
disinfection, as measured by the percent kill of Escherechia coli,
in water containing N-organic compounds exposed to supposedly
adequate levels of disinfectant measured by the DPD analytical
determination for free chlorine The decreased kill of £ coli
attributable to the presence of nongermicidal chloroorganic
compounds yielding falsely positive values of free chlorine,
would provide data to determine if sufficient disinfection of
water supplies is achieved by free chlorine residual monitoring
While previous studies have demonstrated the inability of
existing analytical methods to differentiate between free and N-
chloroorgamc compounds and the nongermicidal behavior of
these N-chloroorganic substances, no investigation has actually
examined the possibility of inadequate disinfection of water
supplies containing such N-organic precursors attributable to
free chlorine residual monitoring Since suppliers of water may
substitute the use of chlorine residual monitoring (equal to 0 2
mg/L) for up to 75 percent of the bacteriological samples,
information about the actual level of disinfection attributable to
possible false positive free chlorine values, is needed to insure a
hygienically safe water Furthermore, total organic nitrogen will
be examined as a possible surrogate parameter for the level of
interference of N-chloroorgamc substances in disinfection
FY-82
44
-------
Title:
Microbial Transformation Rates and Fate of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in
Estuanne Sediments
Principal Investigator:
Michael P Shians
Institution •
University of
Massachusetts
Boston Harbor
Campus
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years! $189,508
EPA Project Number:
R810119
The ongoing investigation will demonstrate the interaction of
microbiological and physico-chemical processes in the
transformation and fate of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
(PAH) under natural field conditions Experiments will be
undertaken to determine the rates, the mechanismfsj, the
microbial ecology, and effects of varying environmental factors
affecting PAH transformation in estuanne and coastal
sediments Radiotracer and microbiological techniques, gas-
liquid chromatography, thin layer chromatography, gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry and high pressure liquid
chromatography will be employed to analyze and identify
potential PAH metabolite accumulation Enumeration and
identification of predominant PAH-degrading microorganisms,
their ability to transform a variety of PAH compounds, and their
potential rates of PAH degradation will be compared to field and
simulated-sediment experiments Biochemical probes will be
employed to determine the major microbial communities
involved in PAH decomposition and the pathways of PAH
degradation that may occur in situ. The major objectives and
expected results of this investigation are to determine the
concentration of PAH in key urban and pristine coastal
sediments, to estimate the specific biodegradation rates in
sediments, to identify the major environmental factors affecting
biodegradation, to assess the fate of model PAHs in coastal
sediments, and to enumerate and identify the predominant
microorganisms involved in sediment PAH transformation and
evaluate their ability to degrade a variety of aromatic
compounds
Emphasis is placed on the integration of field and laboratory
PAH biodegradation experiments and relevant microbial ecology
of this dynamic process, Accomplishment of these objectives will
aid in the understanding of microbial transformation of PAHs
and related aromatic compounds in coastal sediments
FY-82
-------
Title:
Identification and Quantification of the Principal Transport Mechanisms Responsible for
Movement of Toxic Organics in Saturated Groundwater Flow
Principal Investigator:
John C Cnttenden
andNeilJ Hutzler
Institution:
Michigan Techno-
logical University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years] $172,100
EPA Project Number:
H809464
Describing the transport of toxic organics in the soil
environment is essential for proper site selection for land
application and disposal sites for hazardous wastes and
assessing groundwater contamination resulting from accidental
spills The work proposed herein will examine the mechanisms
that affect the transport and attenuation of toxic organics in
saturated groundwater flow A mathematical model which
incorporates the following rate nd mass transfer mechanisms
will be used to evaluate the importance of each mechanism (a)
biodegradation, (b) adsorption, (c) dispersion, (d) channeling, and
(e) facilitated transport by organic complexation with humic
substances Column data derived with a number of soil matrices,
organic chemicals, and aqueous-phase solution conditions will
be compared to model predictions and the ability of the model to
predict quantitatively the transport of toxic organics will be
tested A methodology for determining model parameters from
batch rate, equilibrium, and other tests will be developed and
these tests will also be used to examine and formulate the
mathematic descriptions of each mechanism Once the one-
dimensional transport of toxic organics are well described in this
study, the mathematical relationships which were used to
describe the mechanisms and the methodology which was used
to determine model parameters can be used in two- and three-
dimensional flow problems as would be encountered in the field.
FY-82
46
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Title:
Measurement of HO^ (RO?) in A mbient A ir
Principal Investigator- It has been shown that H02 (R02) detection is possible using a
Donald Stedman chemical amplifier based on the scheme
H02 + NO -OH + NO2
Institution: OH + CO - H + C02
University of H + 02 + M - H02 + M
Michigan anc'tnat an appropriate species for the detection of H02 (ROa) is
the N02 formed in the chain reaction enhanced by the addition of
Proiect Period' controlled amounts of CO and NO to ambient air The best
y Y detector of N02 is a chemilummescence detector based on
reaction with lummol This detector system has been
demonstrated for H02 ambient air, but needs optimization,
Budget- testing, and controlled field studies
(2 years) $159,483 Calibration of the system will be carried out using several
smog chamber facilities and by means of chlorine
EPA Project Number: photosensitized H02 formation The objective of this program is
R 808706 to produce the first direct continuous measurement of H02 (R02),
species which are fundamental to an understanding of air
pollution chemistry
47 FY_82
-------
Title
Parameter Evaluation for Predictive Modeling and Design of Multlcomponent Systems
Principal Investigator:
Walter J Weber, Jr
Institution-
University of
Michigan
Project Period:
3 years
Budget.
/2 years) $207,796
EPA Project Number:
R809808
The design of fixed-bed adsorbers utilizing activated carbon or
synthetic resins for removal of organic contaminants in water
and waste treatment requires estimation of when an effluent
will reach a specified breakthrough stage or concentration level
for a specific set of influent conditions Predictive models which
describe adsorber effluent concentration profiles can be
extremely valuable in this regard, as well as being useful as the
interpretive elements of feed-forward and feed-back control
systems for adsorber operation
Waters and wastewaters generally contain a number of
adsorbing organic species, that is, they are multicomponent
systems Reliable determination of the corresponding series of
equilibrium and mass transport parameters required as input for
predictive modeling of the behavior of multiple components in
fixed-bed adsorbers is at best difficult, and at times impossible
Two methods that represent potentially major breakthroughs in
this field have surfaced recently for single-component systems
The high pressure mini-column (HPMC) technique and the
micro-column technique provide increased simplicity and greater
accuracy in the determination of equilibrium and mass transfer
coefficients, respectively, for adsorber modeling
The proposed research will extend these methods to the more
common and significant situation of multicomponent adsorption
Principal effort will be focused on the development of
experimental methods that can evaluate the interactive vis-a-vis
independent components of equilibrium and mass transfer
parameters This effort is inextricably linked to the development
of appropriate mathematical relationships describing multiple
solute interactions The expected results of the work will be
development of a procedure which couples experimental
methodologies with an interpretive mathematical model to
facilitate the design and operation of adsorption systems for
water and waste treatment
FY-82
-------
Title:
Kinetics of Oxidation of Large Organic Compounds Relevant to the Incineration of Toxic
Wastes
Principal Investigator:
Frank T Greene
Institution:
Midwest Research
Institute
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
{2 years) $444,304
EPA Project Number:
R808184
The objective of this research is the determination of the rates
and mechanisms of oxidation of organic compounds of the types
of importance in toxic wastes The reactions will be carried out in
high temperature flow reactors and in laminar flat flames burned
at both reduced and atmospheric pressure These systems are
complementary in that the flow reactors will provide particularly
well-defined isothermal conditions while the flat flames provide
more typical combustion conditions The reaction products and
intermediates, including free radicals and other unstable and
reactive species, will be identified and measured as a function of
time principally by molecular beam mass spectrometry In
addition, optical spectrometry, microprobe, and other techniques
will be used as needed to obtain supplementary data
Temperatures will be measured by molecular beam,
thermocouple, and spectroscopic techniques Flow fields will be
characterized by conventional and time-resolved schheren
photography. This ensemble of measurements is expected to
provide more detailed kinetic data than has been previously
available for the complex molecules These data will be
evaluated to determine optimum incineration conditions and
possible alternative oxidation processes
49
FY-82
-------
Title:
The Role of Chlorammes in the Oxidation of Organic Compounds Present in Water
During Disinfection
Principal Investigator:
Robert M Carlson
Institution:
University of
Minnesota
Duluth, MN
Project Period:
2 years
Budget;
(2 years/ $154,921
EPA Project Number:
R809695
The proposed project will involve the determination in aqueous
media of the product distribution and, where appropriate, the
kinetics for the reaction of inorganic (NH2CI, NHCI2, HCb) and
organic chloramines with representative examples of several
classes of environmentally significant organic compounds These
classes will include polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)
and their heterocyclic analogs, phenols, aldehydes, ketones,
amides, and aromatic amines For each compound where rate
data is obtained, the results will be described by equations which
will allow the prediction of the rates of reaction of the compound
under conditions encountered during disinfection processes The
results obtained in the processed study for PAH compounds can
be directly compared to the results gathered in two related on-
going projects in our laboratory involving the aqueous reactions
of PAH with chlorine and chlorine dioxide
The effect of various parameters that may substantially affect
the type and distribution of organic products generated during
aqueous chloramme reactions will also be addressed These will
include such parameters as the effect of pH, dissolved oxygen,
and the presence of oxidative chlorine species (e g , ~OCI, HOCI,
CI2, CI02, C I02" and CI03~) The investigators will also be vigilant
for factors such as micelle formation, the presence of particulate
matter, or light-initiated reactions that in earlier investigations
were observed to confound the interpretation of the results
The products identified in the proposed investigation will be
made available (by purchase or synthesis) for biological testing
under a potential cooperative arrangement with the Health
Effects Research Laboratory, U S Environmental Protection
Agency, Cincinnati, Ohio Moreover, these pure compounds will
represent standards for quantitation in the proposed research as
well as for the analysis of environmental samples by gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry (GO/MS)
The project will also examine reactions that closely match
actual field conditions For example, a comparison will be made
of the product distributions in the reactions of oxidative chlorine
species and PAH observed in the laboratory with samples of
chlorinated water obtained from tar-coated pipes common to
many municipal distribution systems The possible evaluation of
other situations where chloramines may interact with organic
chemical additives (e g , coagulants) will be evaluated as the
project develops
FY-82
50
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Title:
Acute Toxicity ol Fossil Fuel Hydrocarbons to Lemna
Principal Investigator:
Joe M King
Institution.
Murray State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $61,682
EPA Project Number:
R809946
This project is designed to determine the acute toxicity of
water soluble fractions of select crude oils, refined oils, coal-
liquefaction products, and shale oil to species of Lemna (L. gibba,
L minor, L perpusilla). Effects of photopenod, pH, and
temperature on the sensitivity of these organisms to fresh and
aged extracts will be determined. Pure components of the water
soluble fractions will be tested to identify those which are most
toxic to Lemna
Tests will be conducted with axenic cultures of Lemna in a
chemically defined growth medium to which various levels of
extracts or pure compounds are added Inoculated test solutions
will be incubated in controlled environment chambers set at the
desired light intensity, photopenod, and temperature All tests
will be run in triplicate with controls The number of fronds in
each culture will be determined daily for 14 days and growth
rates will be measured as the slope of the straight-line portion of
the semi-log plot of frond numbers versus time A toxicity curve
will be constructed by plotting toxicant concentration versus
reduction in growth rate as a percent of the controls
This study will provide insight into the use of Lemna as a
bioassay organism for aquatic toxicants, such as petroleum
hydrocarbons, which accumulate at the air-water interface. Data
obtained will indicate the relative sensitivities of the test
organisms to petroleum hydrocarbons under various
environmental conditions
51
FY-82
-------
Title
Methylated Metal and Metalloid Compounds and Water Quality
Principal Investigator: The objectives of this research are to study the presence,
James H Weber formation, and stability of methylated metal ions in natural
waters so we can better assess their concentration and
Institution. movement in systems such as domestic water supplies and
University of waste water There are several types of experiments that will aid
New Hampshire us in achieving the objectives In all experiments we will use
techniques such as gas chromatography, atomic emission
Proiect Period' spectroscopy, and/or atomic absorption spectroscopy (1) We will
, determine concentrations of methylated metal ions in natural
waters (2) We will measure the rates of decomposition of
methylated metal ions and the rates of formation of products
Budget: from the laboratory (3) We will attempt to learn the mode of
(3 years) $56,602 formation of methylated metal ions in a variety of natural water
samples
EPA Project Number:
R 809416
FY-82 52
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Title.
Thermal and Catalytic Reactions of Hydrocarbons with Water Vapor and Hydrogen
Principal Investigator:
Dr Joseph W
Bozzelli
Institution'
New Jersey
Institute of
Technology
Newark, NJ
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $143,300
EPA Project Number:
R810014
This research project will investigate chemical reaction
kinetics on detoxification reactions of chlorinated hydrocarbons
such as carbon tetrachlonde, PCBs, DDT, other pesticides, and
herbicides using water vapor (steam) as a reagent The
halocarbons will be converted through this reaction scheme into
low BTU fuel gas (Hydrocarbons and Carbon monoxide) plus HCI,
which can be readily neutralized The conversions will be
examined in two different types of chemical reactors
1 A high temperature tabular flow reactor to study the
reactions under homogenous vapor phase conditions
2 A medium temperature catalytic reactor to effect the above
detoxification and possibly the in-situ neutralization of HCI
product
Previous research on organic halocarbon reactions has dealt
with oxidation, which results in production of unstable chlorine
compounds This project will introduce hydrogen in the form of
water vapor as a reactant to obtain HCI, a stable, easily
neutralized end product.
The mam objectives in this study are
1 To determine the overall kinetics of chlorinated
hydrocarbons' reactions with water vapor and hydrogen,
2 To develop a thorough understanding and knowledge of
these reactions, the initial products, subsequent reactions
and most importantly, the final products
The reactions will be studied in temperature controlled tubular
or catalytic reactors with complete end product and reagent
analysis by on-line flame lonization gas chromatography (FID
1 C), GC/Mass Spectrometry and carbon monoxide analyses
Kinetic parameters will be determined as a function of reagent
residence time, temperature and reactant concentrations
The results from the high temperature tubular flow reactor are
applicable to currently operating incinerators where a stream
input would effect complete conversion of chlorinated species to
HCI, with energy for steam generation resulting from heat
exchange on the incinerator Presently available coal gasification
reactors and pilot plants could be directly utilized for these
homogenous reactions without significant changes
Results from the heterogenous catalytic reaction studies could
lead to efficient detoxification of halocarbons at lower
temperature and may provide a useful technique for
decontaminating leachates and/or polluted ground waters
where these streams would be heated (not vaporized) and run
through a catalytic reactor
53
FY-82
-------
Title:
Interactions Between Microbiota and Persistent Pollutants in Marine Sediment
Principal Investigator:
Douglas G Capone
Institution •
State University of
New York
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 year si $92,055
EPA Project Number:
R809475
The upper strata of marine sediments are the locus of
enhanced microbial biomass and activity Microorganisms which
participate in aspects of several (e g carbon, nitrogen, sulfur)
important material cycles reside in these environments Marine
sediments are also the site of an ever increasing load of
persistent pollutants, such as chlorinated hydrocarbons and
heavy metals We are presently investigating the effect of
several common contaminants on microbial viability (measured
as ATP biomass and epifluorescent counts) and selected
microbial activities in unimpacted estuarme and salt marsh
sediments Bacterial methanogenesis, sulfate reduction, N2
fixation, denitnfication, thymidme uptake, and heterotrophic
potentials are being tested for sensitivity to these compounds
We herein propose to extend these studies to include
comparisons of the microbial biomass and predominant
respiratory pathways of relatively pristine through heavily
impacted sediments, as a function of the pollutant loading
Further, we intend to determine the comparative rates and
pathways of mineralization of selected organic pollutants in
differentially impacted sediments Finally, we propose to
investigate the interrelationships of the meiofaunal and bacterial
populations of these sediments, with respect to the capacity of
the bacterial flora to mineralize specific compounds
The results of these studies should help determine the
consequences of pollutant loading to the microbiota of marine
sediments Sensitive pathways will be identified and evaluated
for their value as diagnostics of the status of a particular
sediment or for possible bioassay application. Lastly, the studies
of organic pollutant mineralization will provide insight into the
capacity and potential mechanisms of detoxification by these
sediments
FY-82
54
-------
Title:
Pathology of Small Mammals' Index of Toxicity at Waste Dumps
Principal Investigator:
Or John J Christian
Institution:
SUNY Bmghamton
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $ 175,540
EPA Project Number:
ft 809437
Our objective is to determine if small indigenous mammals
may serve as indicators of environmental pollution and potential
health risks at chemical waste dumps, and to monitor such
dumps Small mammals, mainly voles (Microtus pennsylvanicus),
will be live-trapped at Love Canal, its immediate surroundings,
and at uncontammated "reference"areas Body and liver weights
will be obtained Samples of the liver will be prepared for EM,
using standard procedures Liver will be frozen for measurement
of hepatic AHH, LDH, SCOT, SPGT, and glycogen Reproductive
data, size of embryo, number of embryos, resorbmg embryos,
uterine placental scars and number of corpora lutea, state of the
uterus, and position of the testes will be recorded. Organic
pollutants in fat will be determined by HPLC-MC by S R C Other
organs will be preserved in 4% paraformaldehyde Weights of
reproductive organs, adrenals, thymus, and spleens will be
obtained after fixation Pieces of the various organs will be
prepared for light microscopy Procedures to be used have been
defined in preliminary studies Dry weight of the eye lenses will
be obtained for determining relative age
Demographic data such as relative densities, reproductive
rates, age composition, etc will be compared between areas and
with data available from uncontammated areas We have
developed these procedures and have preliminary baseline
values
Pens containing laboratory raised voles will be placed in
presumptive contaminated and reference areas, and the voles
removed after various lengths of time The same procedures will
be used to evaluate these animals
Once a data base is obtained for one dump, we will repeat the
procedures at other selected dumps
We expect that the demographic data will reveal changes in
reproductive parameters, mortality rates, density and age-
composition of populations from polluted areas with respect to
reference areas Voles from areas close to might be expected to
indicate whether pollutants have migrated from the dump and
should show changes between those from the dump-site and
reference areas
Identification pollutants in fats and their relative amounts
should provide indices of contamination of the animals and
should relate to pathological changes in their organs. These data
should provide a useful way of evaluating potential health
hazards The route of contamination of the animals would be
through contact and by ingestion of contaminated vegetation,
invertebrates, and ground water
55
FY-82
-------
Title.
Chemical Degradation of Carbamate Pesticides Water Detoxification Using Reactive Ion
Exchange
Principal Investigator:
Gilbert E Janauer
Institution:
SUNY-Binghamton
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $142,307
EPA Project Number:
R809867
It is the primary objective of this research to demonstrate the
feasibility of a new, safe detoxification method for carbamate
pesticides Since carbamates such as Aldicarb, Methomyl,
Oxamyl, and Carbofuran are very effective and nonpersistent
crop protectants, their continued and future use is anticipated It
has been found, however, that special circumstances or
accidents may result in the inadvertent intrusion of such
compounds into (ground) water supplies intended for human
consumption at levels higher than accepted by current
guidelines (e g , in NY state) In situ detoxification at the pomt-of-
use is to be accomplished by acid or base hydrolysis (which may
follow prior oxidation) during mere passage (of the contaminated
water) through a column or cartridge packed with reactant ion
exchange resmates or other insoluble, high capacity reactant-
carrymg material
Several major subordinate objectives must be met in order to
reach the primary goal This will be accomplishd by
1 Acquisition of information on identity and ultimate fate of
degradation products of Aldicarb and other pesticides during
nucleophilic cleavage/hydrolysis and oxidation in aqueous
solutions and on reactive ion exchange resmate columns
2 Determination of hydrolysis and oxidation rates for
candidate pesticdes in solution and on resin beds under
realistic experimental conditions (pH, T, water hardness,
bed contact time — flow rate in columns, etc )
3 Adaptation and improvement of current methodology for
quantitation and monitoring of Aldicarb and other
carbamates, and their reaction products Good precision and
quantitative yield at the nanogram level are a prerequisite to
the success of this work
Methods used in reactive ion exchange experiments
encompass straightforward batch contact and flow-through
(column) procedures with emphasis on careful monitoring of
parent pesticides and all degradation products to achieve a
complete mass balance on column influents vs effluents For
quantitation at the ppb level the use of preconcentration/HPLC,
GC-MS in SIMS mode, and, possibly, HPLC-MS is anticipated
Initial results indicate that Aldicarb, Carbofuran and their
metabolites can currently be detected at this level using GC with
a thermionic detector Base and acid hydrolysis rates in solution
are being determined using this analytical methodology, while
HPLC is being used to acquire data in conjunction with parallel
reactive ion exchange experiments under identical or similar
conditions
The rate of hydrolysis results for candidate pesticides in
solution will be correlated with the corresponding reactive ion
exchange rate data (pseudo first order rate constants) obtained m
batch and columns under reproducible and representative
conditions This will permit, eventually, fairly accurate
predictions of column detoxification as a function of system
variables
Finally, quantitative results on in situ detoxification efficacy in
terms of rate of degradation (and removal by sorption of
decomposition products) will be available These will, hopefully,
permit the Principal Investigator to design a preprototype
assembly for a practical carbamate pesticide detoxification unit
FY-82
56
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The results of the entire study will also be of potential benefit
in cleanup of accidental spills (pesticide transportation), safe
disposal, and protection of workers handling carbamates
Furthermore, there may be progress made with respect to
analytical methodology, and the solution studies may shed light
on mechanisms of carbamate degradation in the environment
Last, but not least, it should be mentioned that many
organophosphorus pesticides can be detoxified using exactly the
same approach
57
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Title:
Reactions or Adsorbed Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Principal Investigator:
Joan Darsey
Institution:
New York University
Medical Center
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $282,454
EPA Project Number:
R810099
This is an investigation of the reactions of polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (PAH) adsorbed on particles, under simulated
atmospheric conditions Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy
(FTIR) (transmission and photoacoustic) will be used to
characterize the particle surfaces and to study the interactions of
adsorbed PAH with the surface The objectives of the study are
1) to characterize adsorbed PAH and their degradation products,
in situ by FTIR Spectroscopy and by extraction and high pressure
liquid chromatography (HPLC), 2) to determine the rates of
degradation of PAHs adsorbed on selected particle substrates
under simulated atmosphere conditions, using the fluidized-bed
photoreactor developed for such studies, 3) to identify the
products of degradation of benzo(a) pyrene on each substrate (by
HPLC) to gam insight into the possible mechanisms of reaction,
and 4) to identify key variables which influence the rates and
products of PAH degradation The substrates to be investigated
include coal fly ash, carbon, silica, alumina and hematite
Reactions will be studied in air, in the presence and absence of
visible light, and with added gases The effects of temperature
and PAH concentration on the surface will be examined
Increased coal and wood-burning in the U S can result in
greater emissions of PAH The proposed study will provide a
more fundamental understanding of the critical factors which
influence the chemical and biological properties of airborne PAH
and their lifetimes in the atmosphere The study will also provide
improved techniques for in situ studies of adsorbed PAH
FY-82
58
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Title:
Cocarcmogenicity o1 Inhaled Sulfur Dioxide and Endogenous Sulflte with Benzofalpyrene
Principal Investigator.
Albert F Gunnison
Institution:
New York Universit,
Medical Center
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years/ $250,000
EPA Project Number:
R809860
The major objectives of this project are to compare the effect
of 1) inhaled sulfur dioxide (S02) and 2) endogenously-generated
sulfite/bisulfite (the hydrate of S02 at physiological pH) on the
time of appearance and incidence of squamous cell lung cancers
induced in rats by exposure to benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) The studies
should throw light on possible mechanisms of action of
S02/sulfite in the carcinogenic process.
Young adult male Sprague Dawley rats will be exposed for 15
consecutive weeks to BaP by intratracheal instillation at a dose
of 1 mg/rat/week Some of the rats will be exposed by
inhalation to 10 and others to 30 ppm SC>2 for a period of 21
consecutive weeks, beginning 2 weeks prior to the intratracheal
instillations Additional experimental groups will be exposed to
S02 alone and one group instilled with the vehicle alone will
serve as a control A parallel experiment using sulfite oxidase-
deficient rats will be conducted simultaneously In these animals
sulfite will be present systemically due to endogenous
generation Tracheal sulfite and S-sulfonate (RS-SOa)
concentrations will be determined in all experimental groups and
used as a basis for establishing sulfite dose to the trachea
Animals will be allowed to live out their natural lives and, at the
time of death, slides will be prepared of the lungs and of all
tumors
Based on data in the literature, the proposed exposure of rats
to BaP is expected to yield an incidence of squamous cell lung
cancer of approximately 20% Groups which are simultaneously
exposed to S02 or to endogenously-generated sulfite should
have either the same or a higher incidence and/or shorter
induction period depending upon the degree of augmentation by
sulfite Animals which are exposed only to inhaled S02 or
endogenously-generated sulfite are not expected to develop lung
cancers Among the BaP-mstilled groups, any differences in the
number or time of appearance of tumors which correlate with
the mode of sulfite exposure should provide information on its
mechanism of action
59
FY-82
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Title:
Effects of Inhaled Sulfunc Acid on Healthy Humans
Principal Investigator:
Morton L/ppmann.
PhD
Institution:
New York University,
Institute of
Environmental
Medicine
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years} $222.326
EPA Project Number:
R810101
In a previous study at this laboratory, the bronchial mucociliary
particle clearance of healthy nonsmokers was markedly altered
after a one-hour inhalation of a submicrometer sized sulfunc
acid (H2S04) aerosol at a concentration of 100 /ug/m3 We found
no measurable changes in respiratory mechanical function for
exposures up to 1,000,ug/m3, demonstrating that clearance
measurements provided a more sensitive tool to determine
physiological effects of such exposures
The nature of the transient effect on clearance which was
observed, and the locus of response in relation to deposited
doses in the airways, will be determined in further tests on
human volunteers exposed for one- and two-hour periods to 100
/jg/m3 of H8SO-i The subjects will be exposed to x-tagged
monodisperse Fe203 aerosols both before and after the acid
aerosol exposure, and the retention of both tagged aerosols will
be measured periodically with external detectors By comparison
of the retention times in the acid exposure tests with those
measured in sham exposure and control tests, we will determine
the effects of the acid exposure on mucus transport velocities at
each airway level and on the rate of clearance from the alveolar
region of the lungs
FY-82
60
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Title:
Dephenolizat/on of High Strength Phenolic Wastewaters by a Catalyzed Aerobic
Coup/ing Reaction
Principal Investigator:
P K. Lim
Institution:
North Carolina
State University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $173,164
EPA Project Number:
R809553
The primary objective of the proposed study is to verify the
viability of a novel dephenolization scheme which is based on a
catalyzed, aerobic coupling reaction The proposed scheme is
designed to treat high strength phenolic liquors which are
generated in coal-conversion processes
As envisioned in the proposed scheme, phenols will be
converted catalytically and aerobically into insoluble coupling
products which can then be easily separated from the
wastewaters The attractive features of the scheme include (i)
the ability to treat concentrated phenolic wastewaters without
dilution, (n) low costs of oxygen and catalyst, (MI) simplicity of the
scheme, (iv) easy disposal of recovered solid organics as a fuel
Various transition metal compounds and complexes, including
cuprous chloride, will be screened for their ability to effect the
desired aerobic coupling reaction under mild reaction conditions.
Preliminary studies have shown cuprous chloride to be a potent
coupling catalyst The kinetics of the catalyzed coupling reaction
will be studied, and the major coupling products will be
characterized and identified The effects of potential inhibitors
will be examined and optimum reaction conditions for the
coupling reaction will be sought and then verified with actual
coal gasification wastewaters Finally, a cost analysis of the
novel dephenolization scheme will be carried out
61
FY-82
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Title-
Ultraviolet Disinfection of Water and Wastewater
Principal Investigator:
Dr. J. Donald
Johnson
Institution:
University of
North Carolina
Chapel Hill
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $72,012
EPA Project Number:
R809593
Objectives:
Ultraviolet light is being investigated as a water and
wastewater disinfectant which produces none of the toxic by-
products typical of chlorine disinfection It is the purpose of this
study to define the UV energy required to inactivate
microorganisms of human health interest likely to be present in
water and wastewater The rates of kill of these organisms will
be measured for £ coli. Streptococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus
aureus. Salmonella typhi, Shigella sonnei, B. subtilis, rotavirus,
poliovirus, and entamoeba moshkovskii. and natural coliforms
Comparisons will be made of the relative sensitivities of these
organisms to the natural water indicator organism, E coli, as an
indicator of the resistance of these organisms to ultraviolet
disinfection in comparison to the relative resistance they have to
coliform disinfection with chlorine The response of these
organisms to ultraviolet radiation dose will be measured as the
log survivals as a function of water quality, especially in
municipal wastewater effluents undergoing various treatments
The importance of filtration prior to ultraviolet disinfection and of
turbidity on ultraviolet disinfection will be investigated by
measuring the effects of paniculate size and size fractions on
particle size distribution after and before filtration, as well as the
ultraviolet dose-survival curves in typical municipal wastewater
Expected Results of
Research:
This study will accurately determine the quantity of ultraviolet
radiation required for mactivation of a range of organisms of
public health importance This will provide the necessary
information to evaluate ultraviolet light as an alternative to
chlormation for the mactivation of these organisms in natural
water systems The accurate determination of the quantity of
ultraviolet radiation required to produce mactivation of
waterborne, infectious organisms will provide the basic data
necessary to design efficient ultraviolet disinfection units for
wastewater and drinking water disinfection Data on the effects
of turbidity and particulates in water disinfection will determine
the necessary water quality for effective ultraviolet disinfection
Since particulate protection can be a major factor in limiting
disinfection, the quantitative data on particle size distribution of
particulate material and its effect on the rates of ultraviolet
mactivation of microorganisms will be used to evaluate what
degree of pretreatment or filtration is required for effective
ultraviolet disinfection
FY-82
62
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Title:
The Effect of Ozonation on the Colloidal Stability of Particles in the Presence of Aquatic
Humic Material
Principal Investigator:
Philip C Singer
Institution:
University of
North Carolina at
Chapel Hill
Project Period'
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $181,777
EPA Project Number:
R810235
The objectives of this research are to evaluate the colloidal
stability of various particulate substances in the presence of
extracted humic material, and to assess the impact of ozonation
on the stability of the particles The basic goal of the research is
to determine the mechanism(s) responsible for the
"rnicroflocculation" phenomenon observed when raw water is
ozonated as a first step in drinking water treatment, and to
identify the water quality parameters which contribute to the
rnicroflocculation phenomenon
In the study, purified clay particles (Kaohnite and
montmorillomte) and well-characterized metal oxides (alumina
and silica) will be used as the particulate phases Well-
characterized humic and fulvic substances extracted from
natural waters will serve as the natural aquatic humic material,
and experiments will be performed in the presence and absence
of calcium and ferrous iron, at constant ionic strength and in pH-
buffered solutions Colloidal stability will be assessed using
particle counting and electrophoretic mobility measurements
Ozonations will be carried out on the suspensions in the
presence of the aquatic humic material to determine the impact
of ozone on the colloidal stability of the particles
It is anticipated that the aquatic humic material will be
adsorbed by the particulate phases and that the amount of
humics adsorbed will be enhanced in the presence of calcium It
is believed that the extent of adsorption will be greatest for
alumina compared to the other solid phases It is expected that
the adsorbed organic material will make the colloidal particles
more stable (less susceptible to coagulation), but that upon
ozonation, the organic coatings on the particles will be partially
oxidized, causing them to be desorbed from the particles and
thereby decreasing the stability of the particles and making them
more susceptible to coagulation In so simulating the
rnicroflocculation phenomenon, we hope to be able to better
define this phenomenon and the factors contributing to it
63
FY-82
-------
Title:
Molecular Mechanisms of Chemically-Induced Mutagenesis
Principal Investigator.
Gary J Smith, Ph D
Institution.
University of
North Carolina at
Chapel Hill. NC
Project Period:
3 years
Budget.
(2 years) $140,104
EPA Project Number:
Ft 809604
The objective of this project is to gain a better understanding
of how a human cell copes with chemical damage m its genetic
material There appear to be two major classes of consequences
to the replication of chemically-damaged DNA The most
common perturbation of genetic integrity results from the
interaction of the rephcative polymerase with an isolated
chemical lesion, presumably resulting in a mutational event
confined to a small sequence of DNA The alternative class of
alterations of DNA sequence/structure results from the rarer
occurrence of multiple sites of chemical damage within a
segment of DNA, and is generally cytotoxic The resulting
perturbation of DNA replication is postulated to be associated
with the induction of chromosomal mutations such as
inversions, deletions, or translocations Mutational events
occurring in a single gene will be studied in the human lambda
(A) immunoglobulm gene Clones producing a chemically-
induced mutant protein will be identified electrophoretically
Culture medium from the exposed clones which contains the
secreted A protein will be isoelectrically focused and the banding
pattern of the A protein visualized by EL1SA staining of a
nitrocellulose blot of the focusing gel The A protein secreted by
mutant clones will be purified, tryptic digested, the aberrant
fragments identified, and the ammo acid sequence of the
aberrant fragments established to allow analysis of the
chemically-induced change in the DNA sequence of the A gene
Chromosomal mutational events are studied m the HGPRT locus
Clones which have concurrently lost enzymatic activity in the
selectable locus, and in a linked locus, following chemical
exposure will be subjected to prophase banding karyotypic
analysis The banding analysis will identify the nature of the
chromosomal mutation (i e , deletion, translocation, etc ) as well
as identify the new location of translocated fragments
The results of such studies will enhance our understanding of
chemically-induced genotoxicity m two areas First, these studies
will identify the nature of the sequence alterations produced in
the daughter DNA by a variety of chemicals Second, comparison
of mutation frequencies measured as isoelectric variants in the ^
locus and by loss of enzymatic function m the HGPRT locus will
provide insight into how much genetic damage is absorbed by
the genome and not phenotypically expressed
FY-82
64
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Title.
DNA Damage, Repair and Replication in Cell Specific In Vivo Carcmogenesis
Principal Investigator:
Steven M
D'Ambrosio, Ph D
Institution:
Ohio State
University Researc i
Foundation
Project Period.
1'/2 years
Budget:
(T/2 years/ $159,477
EPA Project Number:
R809580
The main objective of this proposal is to determine the
relationship of DNA damage and repair in specific susceptible
and resistant mammary cell subsets to carcmogenesis Our
approach will utilize a) combined expertise of several
interdisciplinary areas, b) rat mammary gland during different
stages of development and susceptibility, c) separation of the cell
types comprising the mammary gland by density gradient and
elutnation techniques, d) two classes of potentially carcinogenic
and noncarcmogenic alkylating agents, e) detection and
quantitation of the specific DNA myoepithial, f) repair studies to
follow the loss or persistence of the damage induced, and g)
fixation of the DNA damage as a function of DNA replication in
each cell types The mammary gland was selected because it is
one of the few adult organs with differential stages of
susceptibility during development to chemically induced
transformation and contains unique cell types which have the
potential to transform as well as those that do not The
carcinogens used are chosen for having different potentials for
inducing mammary cancer and producing different levels and
types of DNA damage The DNA damage and repair assays will
be performed to correlate the particular damage induced, repair
of the damage and DNA replication potential to the type of tumor
arising from the different cell types of the mammary gland All
parameters employed in this study for the assessment of DNA
damage and repair will be measured as functions of time, dose
of carcinogen, and age of rat at time of exposure The number of
alkali-labile sites and modifications at the endo and exo-cyclic
nitrogens and oxygens of DNA bases will be quantitated by
monitoring the radiolabeled adducts using Sephadex and high
pressure liquid chromatography (hplc) techniques The number
of alkali labile sites (phophotnesters, apurnic, apyrimidmic and
breaks) as well as N-3 and N-7 alkylated purines and O2
alkylated pyrimidme will also be quantitated using alkali and/or
site specific enzymes in conjunction with sucrose sedimentation
of non-radiolabeled DNA The type of location of mammary
neoplasms induced will be characterized and correlated with the
level and type of DNA damage induced Thus, the extent and
nature cf DNA damage, repair and replication in the susceptible
and resistant cell type(s) and tumor incidence caused by several
related carcinogens should help to establish a) the relationship
of DNA damage-repair to initiation, and b) DNA replication to
fixation events
65
FY-82
-------
Title:
Fate of DNA Damage in Human Fetal Cells
Principal Investigator:
Steven M
D'Ambrosio, PhD
Institution:
Ohio State
University Research
Foundation
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $174,195
EPA Project Number:
R810146
The objective of this renewal grant proposal is to further
characterize at the molecular level of repair of DNA damage in
human fetal cells This will be accomplished by relating
unscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) and scheduled DNA synthesis
(SDS) directly to carcinogen binding and adducts formed, to the
activity of various DNA repair enzymes (A/-glycosylase,
endonuclease and alkyltransferase) in human fetal dermal, brain
and kidney cells Human epidemiological data indicates that the
nervous system and kidney exhibit high levels of cancer in the
newborn Cells from these fetal tissues also show the most
significant differences in UDS, DNA containing specifically
radiolabeled, M7 and 06-alkylguamne or N3-alkyladenme will be
used as specific substrates to quantitate and enzymatic activities
in the cells We also have a unique resource of human fetal
tissue and culturing techniques that will allow the successful
completion of this project These studies should thus further
characterize the fate of DNA damage and DNA repair in human
fetal cells obtained from dermis, brain and of DNA damage and
DNA repair in human fetal cells obtained from dermis, brain and
kidney The studies should also provide insights into the role that
DNA damaging agents play in human transplacental
carcmogenesis, teratagenesis and mutagenesis
FY-82
66
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Title-
Development of a Sensitive Assay System tor Monitoring Viral Pesticides
Principal Investigator:
George S
Beaudreau,
Co-principal
investigator,
Margot N Pearson
Institution'
Oregon State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget.
(2 years] $51,176
EPA Project Number:
R809460
Nucleopolyhedrosis viruses (NPVs) cause a well-defined
cytopathology in insects and demonstrate only a limited cross-
infectivity which is normally confined to genera within the same
family Because of their restricted host range, NPVs offer an
attractive alternative to chemical insecticides and therefore will
probably be used in increasing amounts for pest control One
such viral insecticide, TM Biocontrol-1, has been registered by
the EPA for use in controlling Douglas-fir tussock moth
infestations
It is the overall objective of this investigation to develop a
specific and sensitive antibody assay system to detect viral
protein This system will provide a much needed assay for
evaluating viral insecticide potency and purity and for setting
standards for msecticidal preparations It will be extremely
useful for monitoring production and application of viral
insecticide
In order to develop this assay system we will 1) prepare
monoclonal antibody directed against ammo acid sequences
within the polyhedra protein (polyhedrin) from the nuclear
polyhedrosis virus infecting the tussock moth, 2) develop an
antibody assay system using these monoclonal antibodies that
can both rapidly detect low levels of this virus specific protein
and distinguish it from antigemcally related polyhedrms of other
insect viruses
An antibody assay system using monoclonal antibody will
provide a rapid and relatively simple method for detecting the
presence of viral specific protein in areas that have been treated
with viral insecticides It would also be useful for monitoring the
spread, if any, of the applied virus into non-host insects and
other organisms Application of this assay system should provide
useful information for the development of safe management of
viral insecticides Most important, such an antibody assay
system using monoclonal antibodies would provide a rapid and
accurate method for monitoring viral insecticide production
67
FY-82
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Title
Effects of Pesticides on Baculovirus Development and Genome Stability
Prin cipal/nves tiga tor:
WilliamJ McCarthy
Institution.
Penn State
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $97.033
EPA Project Number:
R809453
The goals of this project are to 1) evaluate the stability of
baculovirus genomes to chemical pesticides by determining the
effects of exposure on phenotype and genotype, and 2) identify
compatible pesticide-virus combinations
Major objectives are
1 To establish if pesticides enhance, inhibit or have no effect
on baculovirus development in vitro as determined by
polyhedra (PIB) formation and extracellular non-occluded
virus (NOV) liter
2 To assess the mutaqenic potential of pesticides on
baculovirus genomes in vitro. The following classes of
mutants will be screened for. a) plaque morphology
mutants—those that differ from the wild type in cytopathic
effects and appearance of plaques at the optimum growth
temperature, b) host-range mutants—those with an
increased or restricted host-cell range, and c) temperature-
sensitive (ts) mutants—those that fail to replicate at higher,
non-permissive temperatures while doing so at a lower,
permissive one. Theoretically, ts mutants can be obtained
for every gene product with an indispensable function for
virus production, therefore, these mutants provide the best
index for calculation of mutation frequency
Additional objectives relevant to this project are 1) to
determine the effect of host cell genetics on baculovirus
genotype and phenotype after pesticide treatment by studying
one virus isolate in two different permissive cell lines, 2) to
compare the mutation frequency and range of phenotypic
expression with two different baculovirus isolates (a multiply-
embedded isolate—MNPV) and (a singly-embedded isolate—
SNPV) and, 3) to compare the compatibility of pesticide-virus
combinations according to the type of baculovirus isolate (MNPV
or SNPV) and cell line selected
FY-82
68
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Title:
Validation of the Wasp, Bracon hebetor, for Testing Potential Genotoxic Chemical
Agents
Principal Investigator:
Robert M Petters
Institution:
The Pennsylvania
State University,
University Park,
PA 16802
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $! 77,990
EPA Project Number:
R809712
Project Objectives:
The primary objective of this study is to validate Bracon
hebetor as an assay system for routine screening of chemical
and physical agents in order to determine their potential
physiological and genotoxic properties This will be accomplished
by comparing the effects of chemicals with different mutagenic
modes of action on reproductive performance and mutagenic
response in Bracon hebetor Standardization of the Bracon test
will allow better comparison with previous studies and future
investigations The Bracon test system will be evaluated for its
relative effectiveness and utility through a comparison of results
to those of other genotoxic assay systems
Method of
Investigation and
Expected Results:
As an in vivo assay, Bracon hebetor, will permit the evaluation
of chemical agents which have beem exposed to natural
metabohcally activating and/or inactivating systems Since
Bracon is an eukaryote, it will provide a genetic target similar to
that of mammalian organisms in terms of its genome
organization and functional properties Bracon studies are ideally
suited for distinguishing between general physiological insult,
effects due to altered protein synthesis, and damage to DMA
molecules by comparing daily egg production patterns following
exposure of the female to chemical and physical agents Due to
parthenogenetic development of the eggs, treated male studies
allow the detection of physiologically based sperm mactivation or
genetically-determined dominant lethality The assessment of
recessive mutation induction can be accomplished for the entire
genome within one generation owing to the production of
haploid males from unfertilized eggs Gross chromosome
damage can be distinguished from induced recessive lethals by
scoring embryonic death in situ
69
FY-82
-------
Title:
Studies of Non-cultivatable Agents of Viral Gastroenteritis
Principal Investigator:
Robert Do/in
Institution:
University of
Rochester
Project Period:
2 Years
Budget:
12 years) $89,845
EPA Project Number:
R809133
The overall purpose of the proposed studies is to generate
information which will lead to the design, development, and
evaluation of control measures for a significant public health
problem, acute viral gastroenteritis, which appears to be, at least
in part, waterborne The studies are intended to represent a
systematic investigation of the Snow Mountain Agent, a new
agent recently described by the principal investigator To the best
of our knowledge, no other individuals or groups are studying
this agent, hence the proposed studies represent a unique set of
investigations in this area Although the experiments are to be
performed with the Snow Mountain Agent, it is clear that such
studies may have direct applicability to other occult agents of
viral gastroenteritis, such as the Norwalk or Hawaii agents The
principal investigator has accumulated significant amounts of
material from volunteer studies with these other agents, and
techniques which prove successful in the study of SMA could be
applied directly to study of Norwalk and Hawaii agents as well
FY-82
70
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Title:
Halogenated Aromatic Hydrocarbons Biochemical Mechanisms of Toxwity
Principal Investigator:
Or Thomas A
Gasiewicz
Institution.
University of
Rochester
Rochester, NY
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $ 175,411
EPA Project Number:
R809627
Objectives:
The overall objective of the research described is to better
understand the biochemical mechamsm(s) by which 2,3,7,8-
tettachloroidibenzo-p dioxin (TCDD) and related compounds
produce toxicity in animals More specifically, studies will
determine whether altered absorption or utilization of nutrients
from the gastrointestinal tract mainly contributes to weight loss
and subsequent lethality in TCDD-treated animals This will be
tested by determining the effect of total parenteral nutrition
(TPN) on weight gain, gross histopathology, and mortality in
TCDD-treated guinea pigs Other studies will examine if the
altered disposition of some nutritional factor may contribute to
hepatic damage and lethality in TCDD-treated rats This will be
performed by specific alteration in the composition of the TPN
diet as well as promoting iron deficiency by the inclusion of a
specific iron chelator in this diet Other proposed studies will
more clearly define and quantitate the dose and time related
changes in serum and hepatic lipid alterations in TCDD-treated
rats and mice Emphasis will be placed on the various forms of
cholesterol which are altered These studies will be extended to
characterize the effect of TCDD on lysosomal acid hpase which
hydrolyzes cholesteryl esters, and will determine if this effect is
specifically on the hpase or on general lysosomal function
Expected Results of
Research:
In view of the potential human exposure to this class of
chlorinated compounds, and the observed effects of TCDD on
lipid metabolism in both humans and animals, additional studies
are needed to examine the biochemical alterations for these
effects and the mechanism whereby TCDD produces them In the
TCDD-treated rat disturbances, the cholesteryl ester levels
appear to be an early response, occurring within a few days
following TCDD exposure and well before evident histological
hepatic damage The further investigation of these biochemical
events may lead to an understanding into the mechanisms of
TCDD-mduced lipid alterations and hepatic damage For
example, it would be of particular interest to determine if an
inhibition of lysosomal lipase is due to a general or specific effect
upon lysosomal function The proposed studies will examine the
biochemical events responsible for TCDD-mduced cholesterol
alterations m rats and mice and will determine whether these
alterations may be related to the action of TCDD via its cytosolic
receptor
71
FY-82
-------
Title:
Visual Indices of Neurotoxicity
Principal In vestigator:
William H. Merigan
Institution:
University of
Rochester Medical
Center
Project Period'
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $231,147
EPA Project Number:
R809555
This research project will examine the visual system effects of
three important neurotoxicants in primates Our studies are
designed to reveal the time course and nature of neuronal
changes and their impact on visual capacities A related aim is
the development of sensitive clinical tests of incipient
neurotoxicity for human populations The chemicals to be
studied include triethyl tin, a demyelmating agent, 2,5-
hexanedione, which damages optic nerve fibers, and carbon
disulflde, which causes both vascular and neuronal changes in
the visual system
Visual thresholds will be used to assess alterations in visual
capacities for detecting patterned and luminance varying
displays Visual evoked responses will reveal alterations in nerve
conduction in the visual pathways Fluorescein angiography and
fundus photography will be used to detect retinal vascular
damage Detailed morphological studies will be conducted on all
exposed monkeys
We expect to find characteristic patterns of visual dysfunction
for each of the three agents, and determine the morphologic
basis for the type of observed losses For example, we expect
that carbon disulflde will produce visual acuity losses due to
damage to papillomacular bundle fibers We are eager to
determine the role of vascular lesions in this disorder On the
other hand, triethyl tin may delay visual evoked responses (by
virtue of its effects on myelm) without altering pattern vision
FY-82
72
-------
Title:
Pollution of Gravel Spawning Grounds Due to Fine Sediment
Principal Investigator.
Gary Parker
Institution:
St Anthony Falls
Hydraulic Laborator,
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $167,600
EPA Project Number:
Ft 808683
Salmon and related species of fish use the structure of natural
gravelbed rivers for the purpose of spawning Of all the factors
that could adversely affect spawning success, fines
accumulation (d < 2 0 mm) is one of the most important In order
for a new generation of fry to be produced the subpavement
must not be so fine as to a) crunch the eggs in its interstices, or
b) reduce groundwater flow to the point that sufficient oxygen
cannot be supplied to the eggs, or metabolic wastes cannot be
removed, or c) entrap the fry as they try to escape upward
The reason for the paramount importance of fines is that of all
factors deleterious to spawning likely to be exacerbated by the
activities of man, it is one of the most common Road building,
forestry and agricultural activities can lead to the input of fine
material into streams that exceed the natural input by one or
more orders of magnitude
A relation predicting the characteristics of retention of fines in
the substrate as a function of fines input and other factors,
would be of great importance since it will enable us to evaluate
the impact of certain activities in stream sedimentation, and
establish regulations that would preserve water quality adequate
for fish survival. This problem can be approached by carefully
monitored experiments that can reproduce accurately real
stream situations Here the following questions are to be
addressed
1 For given equilibrium movable-bed conditions in a stream,
what is the relation between fines infeed rate and upper
substrate fines content?
2 How long is required for fines content to reach equilibrium,
and what is the mode of intrusion'
3 What is the effect of fines infeed on bedload transport of
coarse material and on other parameters such as slope and
depth?
4 How do such parameters as bed stress, fines grain size and
fall velocity, and pool-and-nffle structure affect fines
retention in the bed'
5 If fines input is ceased, how, and to what extent, can a
stream naturally purge itself of fines?
The first step, real stream modeling, has been performed at
the St Anthony Falls Hydraulic Laboratory in a previous project
funded by the EPA The second step is expected to be
approached in this project
73
FY-82
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Title.
Luminescence Studies of the Photophysical Characteristics and Analytical Figures of
Merit of Polynuclear Aromatic Compounds and Pesticides in Micellar Solutions
Principal Investigator:
L J Clme Love
Institution:
Seton Hall University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $157,871
EPA Project Number:
R809474
The analytical utility of micelle-stabilized room temperature
luminescence (MS-RTL) for the identification and quantitative
determination of hazardous and toxic chemicals, viz, petroleum-
based polynuclear aromatic molecules, pesticides and
herbicides, and polybrommated or polychlormated biphenyls
(PBB, PCB) will be determined The primary objective is to
determine the optimized analytical figures of merit (sensitivity,
useful concentration range, mterferents) in order to evaluate the
practical usefulness of micelle-mediated luminescence analysis
techniques These studies will answer fundamental, theoretical
questions regarding the role of micelles in modifying
lumimscence characteristics of molecules, and will allow
development of practical, much improved analysis methods for
substances which can be catastrophic to human health and well-
being. These new, improved spectroscopic analysis methods will
be used to screen and quantitate several types of hazardous
species present in wastewaters and natural waters
The investigative methodology can be conveniently divided into
four parts First, the physicochemical basis and experimental
requirements for MS-RTL will be determined by measurement of
energy/intensity spectra, quantum yields, and lifetimes for both
fluorescence and phosphorescence emissions of light from the
toxic molecules Second, the chemical conditions required for
observation of MS-RTL will be simplified by investigation of
heavy atom effects Third, the analytical figures of merit will be
determined for a large number of hazardous species Finally,
specific analysis methods will be developed and applied to "real"
environmental samples such as wastewaters and navigable
waters
These studies potentially can produce an analytical technique
with enormous advantages over existing methods for the
sensitive and selective analysis of environmental and forensic
samples at the parts-per-billion level This results partially from
the protective miceHar media used m which fewer mterferents
are observed and for which aqueous samples are ideal These
techniques will aid in determining compliance with water quality
standards, and could have important implications for future,
convenient field monitoring The fundamental studies of MS-RTL
using non-toxic heavy atoms would further simplify sample
handling and disposal
FY-82
74
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Title:
Comparative Embryotoxicity of Cadmium (Cadmium Chloride) and Mercury (Mercuric
Chloride! to the Family Percidae (Class Osteichthyes, Subfamily Etheostommae, Genus
Etheostoma)
Principal In vest/gator:
Dr John W Sharp
Institution
Southeast Misso in
State University
Department of
Biology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $56,437
EPA Project Number:
R810112
The proposed research is designed to describe the embryotoxic
effects of cadmium (cadmium chloride) and mercury (mercuric
chloride) to the freshwater teleosts, Etheostoma caeruleum and
E spectabt/e, thus demonstrating the utility of these percid
fishes for evaluating potentially hazardous materials The
literature indicates that relatively few species of freshwater
teleosts are used for such developmental investigations
Initially, normal, pre-hatch stages of development will be
described for each species A description of the morphological
changes and growth patterns from hatching to the juvenile stage
will likewise be presented In addition, short-term chronic
biossay examinations involving adult exposure to the two metals
will determine adult tolerance levels (96-hr LC50)
Two general embryonic bioassay experiments will be run for
each species and each metal For each treatment and
concentration, four replicates of 25 embryos each will be used
In the first series of experiments, 4-8 cell stage embryos will be
subjected to a variety of concentrations of each metal for
different lengths of time For each concentration tested, 4-8 cell
stage embryos will be exposed continuously and for 1, 2 and 5
days Except for the continuously exposed embryos, all others
will be allowed to continue development in metal-free water The
resulting data should reveal not only concentration-dependent
response differences but also, duration-dependent response
differences A comparison of embryonic responses between the
two species following comparable treatment to the same metal
could reveal species-dependent response differences
In the second series of experiments, different staged embryos
(different ages), 4-8 cell, mid-blastula, mid-gastrula and beating
heart embryos will be exposed chronically to each metal to
describe stage-dependent response differences (=differential
embryonic sensitivity) As above, concentration-dependent,
species-dependent and toxicant-dependent response differences
should be identified For each series of experiments the
following embryonic responses will be measured, mortality,
anomalous development, heartbeat rate, hatching rate and total
hatching success, viability of hatch and eleutheroembryonic size
at time of hatching
Experiments will be continued for 30-60 days post-hatch, with
all surviving eleutheroembryos remaining exposed throughout
this post-hatch period, to the media type from which they
emerged This post-hatch time period of exposure is apparently
sufficient to determine the MATC (maximum acceptable toxicant
concentration)
An additional experiment is designed to determine the short-
term toxicity (96-h LC50) of each heavy metal on previously
unexposed eleutheroembryos (yolk-sac fry) to compare the
sensitivity of eleutheroembryos to the four embryonic (pre-hatch)
stages In addition, the effects of pre-exposure to these heavy
metals on the sensitivity of eleutheroembryos will be fed a diet
consisting of living brine shrimp nauplu, supplemented with
natural food items All media will be replaced daily
Metal concentration in freshly prepared media, and 24-hour
incubated media will be examined by atomic absorption
spectrophotometry Various EC50 values (median effective
75
FY-82
-------
concentration) will be determined by probit analysis following
correction for natural mortality EC50 values include 96-h LC50
(mortality), SH50 (hatching success) and VH50 (viability of hatch)
values An analysis of variance will be performed on all tests
When applicable, Duncan's New Multiple Range test will be
used for comparison examination These will include
concentration-dependent response differences, duration-
dependent response differences and species-dependent
response differences
FY-82 76
-------
Title:
Heavy Metal Effects on Gene Expression in Human Cells
Principal Investigator:
Michael Karm
Institution:
University of
Southern California
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $127,523
EPA Project Number:
R810531
The objective of this project is the understanding of the
molecular basis of the regulation of trace metal metabolism in
human cells The focus of the studies would be on the
matallothionem (MT) system Those low molecular weight heavy
metal binding proteins play a central role in maintenance of
essential trace metal (Zn*+ and Cu"*) homeostasis and in
protection against the harmful effect of the toxic heavy metals
(Cd+* and Hg++)
We will obtain cDNA clones of the various MT mRNA's and
use them to isolate bactenophage clones of the various genes
The structure of the mRNA's would be determined using rapid
nucleotide sequencing techniques The structure of the genes in
normal human somatic cells would be compared to their
structure in fibroblast lines from patients suffering from several
defects in heavy metal metabolism, such as Wilson's disease,
Menkey's Kinky Hair Syndrome and Acrodermatitis
Enteropathica The cDNA's will be used as probes to investigate
the regulation of the kinetics of MT mRNA production in normal
and mutant fibroblast lines
The expected results will include the structure of the various
MT mRNA's Their detailed induction in kinetics in response to
heavy metal exposure in normal and mutant fibroblasts and
assessment of the different components involved in regulation of
MT levels, such as transcriptional activation, mRNA degradation
translational efficiency and protein degradation
77
FY-82
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Title:
Gas-Phase Reaction Kinetics of NO* Formation from Fuel Nitrogen in Fossil Fuel
Combustion
Principal Investigator: A combined experimental and analytical study of the gas-
Pro/ C. T Bowman phase reaction kinetics of fuel nitrogen species under conditions
Prof. R K. Hanson simulating the primary zone of staged fossil fuel combustors is in
progress. Two related problem areas are addressed in this
Institution: program:
Stanford University ^ The reaction mechanism for conversion of cyano species to
amme species for conditions appropriate to fossil fuel
„ . _ . . combustion
, ' 2 The role of hydrocarbon species in the post-combustion
gases on fuel nitrogen chemistry
The experimental program is being carried out in a shock tube
Budget: ancj in a f|at f|ame burner facility. Various optical diagnostic and
(2 years) $203,437 probe techniques are used to monitor the concentrations of
important species during the course of reaction. Measured
EPA Project Number: concentration profiles are used to infer information on the fuel
/? 810019 nitrogen reaction mechanism and kinetic parameters
FY-82 78
-------
Title:
Spectroscopic, Kinetic and Thermochemical Study of Transition Metal Adsorption at the
Oxide/Aqueous Interface
Principal Investigator:
James 0 Leckie
Institution:
Stanford University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $254,000
EPA Project Number:
Ft 809561
The overall objective of this proposed project is to
experimentally verify the mechanism of transition metal
adsorption at the aqueous/oxide interface in carefully chosen
and characterized systems. The proposed study is divided into
two major task sections 1) Spectroscopic investigation of
adsorbed transition metal ions using internal reflectance
Spectroscopic techniques and 2) kinetic study of adsorption of
transition metal ions at the oxide/aqueous interface using
relaxation (electric-field jump and pressure-jump) techniques
The scope of the above proposed tasks was based on a three-
year time frame for completion Due to EPA budget restrictions,
this was later amended to two years with the elimination of Task
3, the calonmetric study of surface reactions
Due to the specialized equipment needs of Tasks 1 and 2, it is
anticipated that equipment design, development, and trouble
shooting will require a major portion of the first year's effort For
Task 1, internal reflectance cells will be developed For Task 2,
the pressure jump and electric field jump apparatuses will need
to be built Also for Task 2, appropriate software and hardware
interfacing will be developed for transient data acquisition and
equipment control In parallel, during the first year, laboratory
experiments, including adsorption, surface titration, and surface
characterization, will be ongoing to determine the stoichiometry
of the surface reactions
Based on the success and progress during the first year,
preliminary experiments will be run during the second year to
determine the nature of the surface chemical bond of transition
metal ions at the oxide surface via the Spectroscopic study
Preliminary kinetic studies will also be initiated to determine the
rate law and mechanism of adsorption at the oxide/aqueous
interface
When the results of the second year become available, it is
anticipated that an additional year of study will be desirable (as
originally planned) to fully benefit from the information,
techniques, and equipment modifications that evolve through the
course of the research
79
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Title:
Influence of Physical Structure on Adsorption of Organics by Activated Carbon
Principal Investigator:
Paul V Roberts
Institution:
Stanford University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $181,978
EPA Project Number:
R809601
The goal of the research is to understand the effects of the
physical characteristics of the adsorbent on the rate of uptake of
organic compounds from aqueous solution by activated carbon
We will develop a mathematical model of diffusion and sorption
in activated carbon that accounts for the measured distribution
of porosity and pore dimensions of the activated-carbon particle,
verify the model experimentally utilizing a range of activated
carbons with different pore-size distributions and organic
adsorbates of different molecular size, and distinguish between
the micro- and macropore domains with regard to the relative
importance of pore diffusion and surface diffusion as
mechanisms of solute transport
The results of this research are expected to improve our
understanding of the influence of the internal structure of
activated carbon on adsorption phenomena relevant to the
uptake of solutes from aqueous solution. A fundamental
understanding of this adsorbate-adsorbent relationship will
assist the design engineer in the selection of an activated carbon
for a specific adsorbate of concern from the wide range of
available activated carbons; further the efforts to predict a priori
the breakthrough behavior of organic solutes in activated-carbon
columns based on the results of experiments conducted in
laboratory batch reactors, and add to the understanding of
competitive adsorption of different sized molecules by addressing
the interactions of the adsorbate with adsorbents having
differing pore-size distributions
FY-82
80
-------
Title:
Characterization of Aqueous Solutions for Mult/component Adsorption and Design
Calculations
Principal Investigator:
Chi Tien
Institution:
Syracuse Universn <
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
{2 years) $263,119
EPA Project Number:
R809482
The principal purpose of this work is to investigate the
feasibility of representing aqueous solutions containing a large
and indeterminate number of soluble organic specimens as
solutions containing a fewer number of pseudo species Each
pseudo species is, in fact, comprised of a number of species with
similar adsorption affinity as indicated by their single species
isotherm expressed in the Freundlich equations
The study can be divided into two parts In the first, the validity
of the pseudo species concept which, in fact, represents soluble
adsorbates into groups, will be examined through experimental
work and computer simulation The application of the use of the
species grouping will be tested both in the calculation of
equilibrium concentration as well as the dynamic behavior of
column operations
In the second part of the study, an optimization-research
procedure will be established such that the adsorption affinities
of the pseudo species can be estimated The application of
employing the so called tracer compound experiment in
expediting the search will be explored. The establishment of
procedures in carrying out the tracer measurement on a
consistent basis will be first attempted followed by experimental
work for its validation and confirmation
81
FY-82
-------
Title:
Kinetics of Aluminum Hydrolysis
Principal Investigator:
Dr. Bill Batchelor
Institution:
Texas A &M
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $110,957
EPA Project Number:
R809774
The principal objective of this project is to develop a model for
the kinetics of aluminum hydrolysis that is applicable to the
process of coagulation in water treatment A model will be
developed to describe hydrolysis reactions in both dilute (10~4M)
and concentrated (1M) solutions Continuous flow completely
mixed reactor experiments will be conducted for both conditions.
The experiments with dilute solutions will cover a range of
hydraulic retention times (5-320 mm), pH values (4-8), and two
temperatures (10, 25°C) The dilute (10~4M) solutions will be
prepared by continuously feeding concentrated (1 M Al)
aluminum sulfate solutions into the reactor. Continuous flow
experiments with concentrated aluminum solutions will be
conducted over a range of hydraulic retention times (0.5-16 hr),
degrees of neutralization (r = 0.5 - 2.7) and at one temperature
(25°C) During both series of experiments, reactor effluent will
be sampled for mononuclear, polynuclear, and solid aluminum
hydroxide species Rates of production of these species will be
calculated and used to develop the kinetic model. The ability of
these species to coagulate turbidity and natural organic matter
will also be determined in jar test experiments
Successful completion of this project will result in production
of kinetic models to describe hydrolysis of alumina in
concentrated and dilute solutions. The model for dilute solutions
is directly applicable to conditions found in water treatment
plants that use alum coagulation The models should lead to an
improved understanding of the chemical processes that are
important in these treatment plants. Such improved
understanding can result in meeting national drinking water
standards more efficiently and reliably. The kinetic model for
concentrated solutions is directly applicable to the process of
prepolymerization of aluminum coagulants. This process has
been proposed as a way to achieve improved coagulation at
drinking water treatment plants. The kinetic model should form a
sound basis for evaluating this alternative treatment process.
FY-82
82
-------
Title:
Digested Sludge Particle Characteristics and Dewaterab/lity
Principal Investigator:
Desmond F. Lawler
Institution:
University of
Texas at Austin
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years} $77,408
EPA Project Number:
R8W147
The objectives are (1) to obtain data on fundamental particle
characteristics (particle size distribution, density, and
electrophoretic mobility) and on thickening and dewatering
characteristics of raw and digested sludges through
measurements on samples from operating anaerobic digesters at
municipal wastewater treatment plants; (2) to make similar
measurements on samples from laboratory digesters to
determine the effect of control variables (detention time,
temperature, strength of feed, and type of feed) on both the
particle characteristics and the thickening and dewatering
characteristics of digested sludge.
The approach is to conduct a two-phase study consisting of (1)
field measurements on samples from municipal wastewater
treatment plants and (2) semi-continuous flow.laboratory
experiments In both cases, measurements of the particle size
distribution, particle density, electrophoretic mobility, capillary
suction time, and specific resistance will be made In the
laboratory experiments, independent variables will include the
temperature, detention time, strength of feed, and type of feed,
other control parameters will be held constant. It is expected that
this research will yield information on how control variables
affect the solid/liquid separation characteristics of digested
sludge
83
FY-82
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Title
Chemical Frequency Distributions in Rainwater—A Physical-Chemical Model
Principal Investigator:
Dr Howard M
Liljestrand
Institution:
University of Texas
at Austin
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $63,869
EPA Project Number:
R810148
Objectives:
A characterization of the pollutant frequency distribution in
rainwater will be made to better estimate the frequency of
extreme (high) values The fundamental frequency distribution
will be determined from historical measurements,
measurements of chemical frequency distributions at the
raindrop level and, to a lesser degree, mass balance models for
precipitation scavenging processes
Methods:
The methods include computer analysis of the historical data
bases for rainwater concentrations An empirical comparison of
the cumulative frequency distribution for rainwater species will
be made with the best fits for various frequency distributions
commonly used in air pollution analysis (normal and log-normal)
as well as those used for precipitation events (Gamma, Weibull,
extreme value and other distributions) In a separate study,
individual raindrops will be collected and analyzed for chemical
concentrations according to raindrop size.
Expected Results:
The results expected include 1) an empirical characterization
of the probability density functions for rainwater concentrations,
with an emphasis on the ability to predict the frequency of the
highest concentrations, 2) an empirical characterization of the
effect of sampling strategy on observed probability density
functions, 3) an empirical characterization of the effect of
precipitation scavenging on air pollutant distribution functions,
4) measurements of the chemical probability density function
within the raindrop size distribution, to provide information for
scavenging models and provide the chemical frequency
distribution at the fundamental (smallest) sample size, and 5) a
box model approximation with first and second order chemical
kinetics for the interpretation of these observed probability
functions
FY-82
84
-------
Title:
Immunologic Analysis of Heavy Metal Tox/city
Principal In vestigator:
David A. Lawrence,
PhD
Institution:
Albany Medical
College of Union
University
Albany, NY
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $153,917
EPA Project Number:
R809349
This project proposes to investigate the effects of heavy metals
on the biochemical, biophysical, and functional characteristics of
lymphocytes Lymphocyte proliferation, immunoglobulm
synthesis and the development and differentiation of
immune-competent cells for the maintenance of antibody-
mediated and cell-mediated immunity will be analyzed in vivo
and in vitro with microculture techniques. In vivo and in vitro
assays will be employed to determe the cellular and subcellular
heavy metal-induced alterations leading to immunopathologic
conditions Specific emphasis will be given to chronic low level
exposure to heavy metals and the resultant influences on (1)
autoimmune diseases, (2) bacterial infections, and (3)
lymphocyte physiology Mice will be exposed orally to various
concentrations of lead, nickel, and mercury in their drinking
water for 2-15 weeks In vivo metal distribution and
concentration will be quantitated by metal analysis (atomic
absorption). Immunopathologic effects induced by immune
complexes, autoantibodies, and/or complement deposition will
be evaluated with initial emphasis on haemopoietic and renal
tissues Tissue concentration of the heavy metals will be
correlated to the concentrations of immunoglobulms and/or
complement components In addition, soluble serum immune
complex levels will be quantitated Heavy metals can alter
immune responsiveness, but the implications of phenomena
such as lead and nickel enhancement of antibody synthesis and
lead enhancement of cytophilic immunoglobulm binding have
not been determined. In addition, the mechanisms involved in
these biologic effects as well as lead's ability to reduce
resistance to bacterial infections are unknown. Heavy metal
effects will be studied at the organismal level (general health;
autoimmumty, bacterial clearance; antibody production; graft
rejection; complement activities), the cellular level (DNA, RNA,
and protein synthesis; nucleotide levels; enzymatic activities)
Evaluation of heavy metal-induced alteration of the
immunoregulatory pathways will aid in the analysis of heavy
metal toxicity This study will examine the "indirect" (via the
immune system) toxic effects of heavy metals and the
mechanisms involved so that the magnitude and importance of
heavy metal effects on the general health status of an individual
can be determined more accurately
85
FY-82
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Title:
A Rapid Bioassay for Screening Pollutants and Predicting the Impact of Chronic
Exposure on Protozoan Communities
Principal In vestigator:
Sharon G. Berk
Institution:
University of
Virginia
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $71,861
EPA Project Number:
R809799
Objectives:
The principal objective of the research is to develop and test a
rapid method for assessing sublethal effects of pollutants on
aquatic microorganisms. The rapid assay will measure
chemosensory responses of ciliated protozoa Data generated
from the short-term tests will be examined for their predictive
value in assessing community structure changes upon low-level
chronic exposure to pollutants The major objective consists of
two aspects
1 To evaluate the use of cultures of protozoa obtained from
standard culture collections or from natural populations as
laboratory tools in screening and predicting effects of
specific pollutants on protozoan populations.
2 To use cultures of protozoa derived from a particular aquatic
environment for application of the chemotaxis chamber
technique as a tool for providing information on effects of
pollutants on behavior of populations in natural waters.
Method:
The chemotaxis assay procedure will be carried out with the
use of modified Palleroni chemotaxis plates, which are specially
designed Lucite chambers containing troughs into which micro-
capillanes can be placed, and wells at the ends of each trough
for containing suspensions of the test organisms After fifteen
minutes, results of the tests can be determined by expelling
contents of the capillary tubes and directly enumerating the
protozoa by light microscopy
Expected Results:
The proposed project should provide a rapid bioassay for
screening potentially hazardous chemcials released into a
freshwater or marine environment In general, it should
demonstrate the value of protozoa as laboratory bioassay tools
Specifically, the assay should determine whether sublethal
concentrations of a variety of chemicals will significantly
interfere with the ability of protozoa to locate nutritionally
important chemical cues Data from the rapid assay should
reveal the ECso for various chemicals and several species of
protozoa Results of testing protozoa grown under several culture
regimes should indicate the importance of growth conditions and
test media to the outcome of bioassays
FY-82
-------
Title:
Solute Transport in Soils with Large Pores
Principal In vest/gator:
Peter F. Germann
Assistant Professor
Institution:
University of Virgin, 9
Charlottesville, VA
22903
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $44.964
EPA Project Number:
R810156
The objective of this research program is to visualize solute
transport in rigid artificial porous media as well as in cores of
undisturbed soils, both containing large pores Thereby, the
surfaces of blocks of approximately 20 x 20 x 20 cm of both
material types are sprinkled with water containing an X-ray
sensitive dye The experiments are performed on a fluoroscopic
device and the infiltration process is recorded on video tape The
spatial distributions of the applied dye as response to different
rates and amounts of sprinkling, the actual hydraulic properties
of the matrix of the porous media and in relation to the
arrangement and geometry of the large pores will provide better
understanding of the nature of flow partitioning into quick flow
along macropores and flow through the matrix In addition, we
want to demonstrate the initiation of water flow and solute
transport along large pores.
The information gained by this program will be useful to
develop more realistic concepts of infiltration in soils with large
openings. The attention paid to the subject of quick flow during
infiltration is increasing. Geochemists as well as designers of
septic tank systems and land-applied liquid waste disposal
systems are interested in improved approaches to the infiltration
process.
87
FY-82
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Title:
Investigation of Pollutant Transport and Dispersion Near Isolated Terrain Obstacles
Principal Investigator:
Brian Lamb
Institution:
Washington State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years/ $159,010
EPA Project Number:
R809983
Objectives:
One of the most important areas of air pollution control
concerns the certification of new or significantly altered power
plants and smelters by state air pollution officials under the
authority of the Clean Air Act The granting of construction and
operating permits for such facilities is contingent upon the
applicant's ability to show, by models and measurements, that
the ground level concentrations of sulfur dioxide particulates and
other criteria pollutants do not exceed national standards This
has been an especially difficult and controversial matter for
plants sited in complex terrain since current models are
inadequate to make confident predictions in such topographical
situations Hence, there is a need for research directed toward
developing and evaluating air quality models for complex terrain
This study will provide significant support to current modeling
efforts through the interpretation of field data to evaluate current
theories of plume impingement on hills for certain
meteorological regimes that are likely to provide significant
plume concentrations on and near the hill
Expected Results:
Results from a recent tracer field study of flow around a large
isolated hill will be used to test, improve, and develop models for
predicting plume behavior in areas of complex terrain Specific
areas of research will include 1) further quantitative evaluation
of the tracer data with an emphasis upon development of
relationships between plume behavior and meteorological
observation, 2) additional comparisons of model predictions with
tracer data and further development of current theoretical
approaches including incorporation of drainage flow and
obstacle wake modules; 3) initiation of a physical modeling study
of flow around Steptoe Butte both to test fluid modeling methods
and to aid in analyzing the field observations, 4) interaction
between WSU and the other groups involved in complex terrain
research to assure complementary efforts and efficient use of
resources, 5) preliminary field measurements (flow visualization
and meteorological observations) at a potential field study site to
be selected in line with results of items 1 -4 This work will
provide a better understanding of how pollutants are dispersed
around terrain obstacles The end product will be an improved
capability to predict pollutant impact from sources located in
areas of complicated topography
FY-82
-------
Title:
Influence of Exposure to Air Pollutants on Emission of Hydrocarbons and Sulfur
Compounds by Vegetation
Principal Investigator:
Merrill R Pack
Institution:
Washington State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $197,697
EPA Project Number:
R810153
The objectives of this research are to determine if exposure of
plants to ozone, sulfur dioxide, or acid precipitation enhances or
otherwise influences their emissions of hydrocarbons or sulfur
compounds into the atmosphere; and if changes in the emissions
are found, to determine if they are associated with development
of injury symptoms or other discernible deleterious effects on the
plants
Known emitters of isoprene (oaks) and monoterpenes (pines)
will be exposed separately to ozone, sulfur dioxide, and
simulated acid precipitation in single-plant enclosures under
controlled environmental conditions The hydrocarbon and sulfur
compound emissions will be sampled over periods of days to
weeks and determined by gas chromatography The pollutant
treatment concentrations will range from somewhat above to
well below the minimum levels required to cause injury
symptoms to develop on the plants and will therefore be similar
to the pollutant concentrations that commonly occur over
extensive areas influenced by local and long-range transport of
air pollutants from the urban/industrial centers of the world
Significant effects of widely-distributed air pollutants on
emissions of hydrocarbons and sulfur compounds would have
important implications with respect to the atmospheric chemistry
involved in the formation of organic and sulfur aerosols, ozone,
carbon monoxide, hydrogen, and other important atmospheric
components and might provide a means of diagnosis of subtle
impacts of air pollution on vegetation
89
FY-82
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Title:
Immunotoxicology of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons
Principal Investigator:
Stephen H. Polmar
Institution:
Washington
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $426.317
EPA Project Number:
R810564
The goal of this project is to determine the effects of a class of
environmental chemicals, the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon
(PAH) on the functioning of the immune system in humans PAH
are compounds commonly found in exhaust emissions and
cigarette smoke While their role in causing cancer has been
studied extensively, their potentially important effects on the
function of the immune system is poorly understood The
immune system is a complex network comprised of many
different types of cells (e g various white blood cells) and organs
(bone marrow, lymphnodes, spleen) which interact to prevent or
combat infections and the development of tumors Alterations in
the normal functioning of the immune system also occur in
allergies and in so-called autoimmune diseases such as arthritis
and certain forms of kidney disease
This research project will study the effects of PAH particularly
in low doses on the functioning of the immune system in man A
wide variety of different immune functions can be studied "in
the test tube" using so-called tissue culture techniques For
example, blood cells are isolate, exposed to low doses of PAH
and then studied for their ability to perform their normal function
in immunity Individuals are not exposed to the PAH being
studied and these tissue culture procedures permit us to study
human cells directly
FY-82
90
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Title:
Anaphase Aberration A Unifying Method for Development of an Aquatic Animal Gene-
Tox Model
Principal Investigator:
R. M. Kocan
Institution:
University of
Washington
Seattle. WA
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $241,790
EPA Project Number:
R810057
This project will use the cytogenetic technique of anaphase
aberration analysis to compare the genotoxic effects of organic
compounds on cells, embryo and adult animals of the same
species This technique makes it possible to directly compare
damage done to chromosomes, both in vitro and in vivo, and to
relate this damage to the ultimate fate of embryos and whole
animals following exposure to the same genotoxic agents
(benzo(a)pyrene and MNNG).
The rainbow trout was chosen as the model species for
development of this system because of the extensive background
material available. Continuous cell lines, primary cell cultures,
embryos and fully documented genetic stock are readily available
for study.
The objectives of this study are- (1) to determine how
chromosome damage produced in vitro compares to damage
which occurs in developing embryos following exposure to
similar concentrations of the same compounds, (2) to determine
how an increase in chromosome damage in developing embryos
ultimately affects survival, hatching, fry size and
teratogenicity/tumongemcity; and (3) whether an increase in the
number of genetic loci (polyploidy) can result in greater
resistance to the effects of a genotoxic agent.
The results expected from this study are (1) the relationship
which exists between chromosome damage seen in vitro and the
ultimate fate of an organism which has been exposed to similar
genotoxic agents during embryologic development will be
revealed (this could be in the form of survival, morphologic
alterations, tumor growth on metabolic/physiologic dysfunction),
(2) the development of a field monitoring system for
ichthyoplankton using chromosome squashes and anaphase
aberration analysis, and (3) the significance of gene duplication
as it relates to genotoxicity and the survival advantages of
polyploid species
91
FY-82
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Title:
DNA Damage and Its Expression in Mammalian Cells
Principal Investigator:
Lawrence A. Loeb,
Co-Director
Earl P Benditt
Institution:
University of
Washington
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $295,484
EPA Project Number:
R809623
This proposal centers on the mechanisms by which damage to
DNA by environmental agents results in mutations Mutations
are of concern to society, since they are causally associated with
many birth defects and are central to carcmogenesis This
proposal focuses on the mutagenic consequences of unrepaired
DNA damage and its expression. Two interrelated aspects of
DNA damage are being explored1 1) Depurmation, the excision of
purme bases in DNA, occurs spontaneously and is a common
intermediate in the repair of DNA damage by many
environmental agents, 2) Sister chromatid exchanges appear to
be a common expression of DNA damage by diverse
environmental mutagens and are being extensively used as an
indicator of damage
We have recently demonstrated that depurmated sites in DNA
are mutagenic during copying of DNA by purified polymerase
Our evidence indicates that mismcorporation opposite
depurmated sites in vitro are not random events, but involve the
preferential incorporation of the base, deoxyadenosine
Furthermore, in one biologically relevant situation, depurmation
is mutagenic and also involves deoxyadenosine incorporation. To
quantitate the contribution of depurmated sites to mutagenicity,
we are studying the interactions of three chemical carcinogens
/3-propnolactone, benzo[a]pyrene diolepoxide, and aflatoxm 81 —
each with bacteriophage X174 DNA—and monitoring the
reversion of (amber) mutations to wild type We predict
enhanced frequency of transversions, particularly substitution of
deoxyadenosine, in those cases in which mutagenesis proceeds
by depurmation. To study mutagenicity of depurmated sites in
animal cells, we plan to use viral DNA from SV-40 in a
transfection assay
With respect to sister chromatid exchanges, our goal is to
understand the biochemical mechanism of this genetic
rearrangement and its relationship to DNA damage We will
examine the involvement of poly [ADP-Rib] polymerase in sister
chromatid exchanges and study the relationship of these
exchanges to the frequency of single-base substitutions in error-
prone states These two phenomena, depurmation and sister
chromatid exchanges, could be related An understanding of
both these mechanisms seems a requisite for a rational risk
assessment of DNA damage by many genotoxic agents
FY-82
92
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Title:
Simulating the Effects of Toxicants on Aquatic Microcosm Systems
Principal Investigator:
Gordon Swartzman
Institution:
University of
Washington
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $194.744
EPA Project Number:
Ft 810251
This project intercompares various model formulations in the
literature relative to their ability to predict the response of
aquatic microcosms to the addition of various toxicants The
microcosms under study contain 10 species of phytoplankton,
Daphnia magna, and several species of rotifer and a large
amphipod Hyalella sp Six replicates were run of control
experiments and six replicates apiece adding various levels of
selected toxicants These include streptomycin, N-serve,
malathion and copper. Nutrient levels and the biomass levels of
various biota were sampled biweekly during the life of these
experiments The microcosms are characterized by a high degree
of control of the environmental conditions, a high sampling
frequency and very good replicabihty and agreement between
the replicates both for the control and treatment experiments
In our study equations have been selected to represent the
processes of primary production nutrient uptake, sinking,
respiration, mortality (natural, induced by the toxicants, and
predation), grazing, assimilation, excretion, and nutrient
recycling The biota have been divided into functional groups and
various optional equations have been chosen for some of the
processes. The options generally represent disagreements in the
literature over how a given process works Parameter values for
the model were estimated both from the literature, from
experiments we are conducting to estimate specific parameters
and from calibration to observed behavior in the control
experiments and other microcosm experiments on single species
or without grazers
93
FY-82
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Title:
The Determination of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons by High-Performance Thin
Layer Chromatography in Environmental Samples
Principal Investigator:
Prof Colin F. Pools
Institution:
Wayne State
University
Detroit, Ml
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years/ $160,538
EPA Project Number:
R808854
The object of this project is to develop a measurement method
capable of identifying polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
and their heteroatom derivatives by the method of high
performance thin-layer Chromatography (HPTLC) The PAHs to be
investigated are characteristic of energy related sources, are
known or suspect human carcinogens, and are recognized by the
EPA as potentially hazardous The techniques to be developed
are characterized by simplicity, ease of sample handling, high
sensitivity and specificity, and have a high sample throughput.
The methods when fully developed should be easy to implement
and very cost effective compared to current state-of-the-art
methodologies.
The intention is to use established methodologies for air and
water sample collection and a combination of microbore high
performance liquid Chromatography and HPTLC for sample
clean-up and analysis. It is expected that because of the
complexity of environmental samples, HPTLC, even when
combined with state-of-the art fluorescence detection
techniques, may not be able to unequivocally separate, identify
and quantify all PAHs of interest The new combined instrument
technique of microbore HPLC-HPTLC being developed in our
laboratory will be used Preliminary results indicate that
sensitivity of the new methods is not a problem and that most of
the development work will involve the elimination of matrix
interferents This will be pursued with a philosophy of
maintaining the very high sample throughput of HPTLC, the
development of methods which may be automated, and the
development of methods involving the minimum number of
operations to perform an analysis
FY-82
94
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Title:
The Use of Wetlands to Modify Acid Mine Drainage
Prin cipal In ves tig a tor:
Gerald E Lang
Institution:
West Virginia
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $173.184
EPA Project Number:
R810082
In previous biogeochemical investigations of a freshwater
wetland situated adjacent to an abandoned surface coal mine
(Tub Run Bog), we have accumulated evidence to suggest that
naturally occurring populations of sulfate-reducing bacteria may
be removing acidity, sulfate, and dissolved iron from acid mine
drainage as it percolates through the wetland peats. At a second
site (Wymer Run Bog) treated, circumneutral mine drainage is
being discharged into a freshwater wetland The proposed study
incorporates a series of complementary field and laboratory
studies which will. 1) quantify the effect of both acid and
circumneutral mine drainage inputs on wetland vegetational
composition and abundance; 2) examine the effects of mine
drainage on wetland surface water, subsurface water, and peat
chemistry; 3) examine the hydrologic response of the watershed
at Tub Run Bog to individual rain events, as compared to that of
Big Run Bog, an undisturbed wetland, using concentrations of
major ions and 180 to separate stormflow hydrographs into
groundwater and direct runoff components; 4) quantify rates of
sulfate reduction and volatile sulfur gas evolution in peats
collected from Tub Run Bog, Wymer Run Bog, and Big Run Bog,
and 5) investigate the effects of variable sulfate and hydrogen
ion loading on sulfate reduction and volatile sulfur gas flux rates
in peats that have never been exposed to mine drainage. Results
of these studies will permit a more accurate evaluation of the
potential for using existing wetlands or creating artificial
wetlands as low cost, low maintenance systems for the
biological treatment of acid mine drainage
95
FY-82
-------
Title:
Behavioral Effects of Low Level Pb Exposure
Prin cipal In ves tig a tor:
Robert E. Bowman/
Nellie K Laugh/in
Institution:
University of
Wisconsin
Mad/son, Wl
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $220,442
EPA Project Number:
R810129
The objectives are to study responses of adult female monkeys
and their offspring to known chronic doses of low levels of lead,
as a particularly relevant animal model of human lead toxicity
Certian common, clinical parameters (e g , blood lead and zinc
protoporphyrm levels) will be assessed, and behavioral tests will
be conducted as the primary measures of potential neurotoxic
damage from lead. The infant monkeys being studied include a
group exposed to lead only in utero (5 5 mo gestation period)
through dosage of the mother, a group exposed to lead only
postpartum via nursing on the lead-dosed mothers from birth to
weaning (6 mo), and appropriate controls All infants were cross-
fostered to achieve the desired design The mother monkeys
have been exposed to lead for a cumulative total of four years
over the past six years. Lead dosage during the last pregnancy
ranged from 6-10 mg/kg/day and produced blood lead levels
ranging from 80-150 mg/dl Infants at birth had the same blood
lead levels as the mother (about 90 yug/dl) for lead-treated
animals and 7 mg/dl for controls, and nursing infants averaged
blood lead levels comparable to the lead in the mother's milk
(50-100/ug/dl for lead-treated animals and about 18 //g/dl for
controls) The only observed clinical symptom from these
treatments was a modestly reduced hematocrit at the highest
lead dosages, and no effects were seen on body weight, growth,
or appetite
Both the offspring and the mothers are being tested on a
variety of behavioral measures, including assessment of
cognitive functions in the Wisconsin General Test Apparatus,
tests of locomotor activity and reactivity, and tests of social
behavior These data are expected to determine in the offspring
the relative effects of prenatal and postnatal lead exposure at
fairly similar doses and durations, and the extent to which these
effects are comparable to previous results of postnatal lead
exposures in nursery-reared monkeys The behavioral data on
the mothers are expected to decide if prolonged, subclmical lead
exposure during adulthood has neurotoxic effects and to
establish a model for risks associated with long periods (i e ,
decades) of low level lead exposure in the adult human The data
on the young animals are expected to indicate particularly
whether toxic signs persist long after the termination of lead
exposure, as yn enduring and perhaps permanent consequence
of organic damage The correlation of observed toxic effects, and
associated lead intakes, with such widely used clinical indicators
as blood lead and zinc protophorphyrin levels, are expected to
provide useful information for diagnostic or risk assessment in
both developing and adult humans
FY-82
96
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Title:
Scavenging of Aerosol Particles by Snow Crystals in the Atmosphere
Principal Investigator:
Dr. Pao-Kuan Wang
Institution:
University of
Wisconsin
Mad/son, Wl 53706
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years] $124,618
EPA Project Number:
R809371
Each year a large amount of aerosol particles are emitted by
human activities which form the paniculate pollutants m the
atmosphere These particulate air pollutants not only cause
unpleasant and unhealthy living environment for human beings
but, thru the change in the atmospheric chemical equilibrium,
may cause inadvertent change in climate To understand and to
solve this problem, we need to know quantitatively the injection
and removal rates of these particulates
The goal of this project is to determine quantitatively the
removal rates of aerosol particles by falling snow crystals Both
experimental and theoretical methods will be used The
experimental study will involve a set-up which allows the natural
snow crystals to fall through an aerosol chamber under precisely
controlled conditions. The sizes, charges, shapes and
concentrations of aerosol particles and snow crystals will be
carefully determined To prevent environmental contamination of
the results, indium acetylacetonate, which is practically non-
existent in the natural atmosphere, will be used as the aerosol
material and will be generated by a modified La Mer generator
The amount of aerosol particles collected by the snow crystals
will be measured by the quantitative neutron activation analysis
The collection efficiences are then determined from these
measurements. The theoretical study involves computations
using mathematical models. We will consider the capture of
aerosol particles by the combined effect of Brownian diffusion,
electric forces, phoretic forces, and hydrodynamic forces Both
flux and trajectory models will be used to determine the
collection efficiencies. The computed collection efficiencies will
be compared to the experimental results to test their validity
The project will be expected to produce a set of realistic
collection efficiences of aerosol particles by snow crystals These
results are directly usable for the assessment purpose The
theoretical model, verified by careful measurements, can be
incorporated in a regional model to predict the aerosol budget
97
FY-82
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Title:
Hydrocarbon Budget for a Polluted Marsh
Principal Investigator:
John M. Teal
Institution:
Woods Hole
Oceanographic
Institution
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $31,067
EPA Project Number:
R809825
The principal objective of this proposal is to obtain a budget for
the hydrocarbons in sewage sludge that has been experimentally
applied to a salt marsh over the last 11 years. We have a
complete record of samples of the fertilizers added through the
years for quantifying all of the hydrocarbons added to our
experimental plots. We have sediment cores taken in a number
of years and stored frozen from which we can obtain
intermediate datum points for hydrocarbon budgets, and control
plots in the same area of marsh for comparison Secondary
objectives include examination of initial products of hydrocarbon
decomposition in the marsh sediments and the persistence (or
lack thereof) as a result of the long-term, low-level pollution that
has occurred We also have samples from short-term
experimental plots that have been experimentally treated for the
past two years for additional comparison. Hydrocarbon content of
the fertilizer from over the years will also be measured. This will
provide us with a measure of the levels of total hydrocarbons
applied and the amounts still present in the marsh sediments
This information will be valuable in providing a basis for the
management of these pollutants in sewage sludge and a
knowledge of the persistence of hydrocarbons in marsh
sediments. This is of additional interest when compiled with
information we have obtained on increased production in
marshes with sludge-based fertilizer when considering the
possibilities of nutrient reclamation and waste disposal of
coastal towns in nearby marshes This research will be carried
out with the use of a thermal distillation-pyrolysis technique
developed by Dr J Whelan which is a rapid and precise
technique for hydrocarbon measurement in sediments of this
nature
FY-82
98
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Institution
Contents
Investigator
Page
Akron, University of Wm. Brian Arbuckle 7
Atmospheric Research Group,
Altadena, CA Gregory fi. Markowski 2
Ball State University Thaddeus J. Godish 3
California Institute of Technology John H. Seinfeld 4
California, University of—
Davis Edward D. Schroeder 5
California, University of—
Riverside A. M. Winer 6
Christ Hospital Institute of
Medical Research Richard L Ward 7
Cornell University Barbard L. Bedford 8
Drexel University Michael A. Gealt 9
Drexel University Richard E. Speece 70
Emory University P. Dennis Smith 12
Florida, University of J D, Winefordner 13
Gordon Research Conference Paola S. Timiras 14
Harvard University Steven C. Wofsy 75
Indiana University James P. Reilly 16
Illinois Institute of Technology Selim M. Senkan 77
Kansas State University Alexander P. Mathews 18
Lehigh University H, Y. Fang 73
Maine, University of—Orono Jerry D. Lowry 20
Mary/and, University of Glen E Gordon 27
Massachusetts Institute of Michael P Manning 22
Technology
Massachusetts, University of Neil M. Ram 23
Michigan, University of Eugene F. Stoermer 24
Michigan, University of Walter J. Weber, Jr 25
Missouri, University of Mriganka M. Ghosh 26
New York University Guenther Stotzky 27
North Carolina, University of—
Chapel Hill Richard Kamens 28
Ohio State University George E Milo 23
Oregon Graduate Center for
Study and Research James J, Huntzicker 30
Oregon Graduate Center for
Study and Research M. A. K. Khali/ 37
i FY-83
-------
Institution Investigator Page
Oregon State University Ramon J. Seidler 32
Rochester, University of.
Medical Center Raphael Do/in 33
Southern California Coastal
Water Research Project
Authority David Brown 34
South Dakota State University Donald P. Evenson 35
SRI International H. P Singh 36
Tennessee, University of Robert B. Robinson 37
Texas Tech University Purenendu K. Dasgupta 38
Virginia Commonwealth
University Michael P Weinstein 39
Virginia Polytechnic Institute
and State University William R Knocke 40
Washington State University Brian Lamb 41
Washington, University of Alan Waggoner, Ray Weiss 42
West Virginia University R. B, Smart 43
Wisconsin, University of Erik R Chnstensen 44
Wisconsin, University of—
Milwaukee Jerry Y. C Huang 45
FY-83
-------
Title:
Predicting Adsorption Equilibria Using Calculated Activity Coefficients
Principal Investigator:
Wm. Brian Arbuckle
Institution:
University of Akron
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $57.865
EPA Project Number:
R 810730-010
Summary:
Prediction of aqueous-phase activated carbon adsorption over a
wide range of concentration has been unsuccessful. A new
approach to predict adsorption equilibria will be attempted using
activity coefficients. This study will extend a technique for
calculating vapor and liquid phase activity coefficients (UNIFAC)
to the adsorbed phase Two main problems exist in doing this
representation of the adsorbent's chemical structure and
calculation of the adsorbed-phase mole fractions Five factors
have been identified for evaluation, with sensitivity analysis to
be performed when searching for the best absorbent structure.
The adsorbent model developed will be used to predict
temperature effects and adsorption isotherms for several
additional solutes, including solids
This study could provide a system to calculate the complete
adsorption isotherm for nonelectrolytes on activated carbon,
given a compound's chemical structure Since the UNIFAC
technique handles many compounds simultaneously, the system
could ultimately predict multicomponent adsorption. This
technique based on chemical functional groups could greatly aid
our understanding of adsorptive phenomena, particularly the
chemical interactions among the adsorbent surface, its
functional groups, the solvent, and the solute.
FY-83
-------
Title:
Correcting Cascade Impactor for Blowoff and Cut Sharpness
Principal In vestigator:
Gregory Ft.
Markowski
Institution:
Atmospheric
Research Group,
Altadena, CA
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $25,771
EPA Project Number:
R 810427-010
Summary
The objective of this research is to develop a mathematical
technique to correct impactor data for stage cross sensitivity and
particle blow-off The application here is to an impactor
employing duplicate stages which permit one to estimate the
particle bounce-off and reentramment The extent of particle
blow-off will also be checked by Scanning Electron Microscope
(SEM) examination of the impaction stages
Several data inversion routines (Busigin et al , Cooper et al.,
Crump, and Seinfeld, Simplex and Twomey) are cited by the
authors One of these methods will be adapted to the duplicate
stage impactor Criteria to be met by the inversion routine are
the following: (1) Cut sharpness will be considered; (2) a
functional form of the distribution is not assumed; (3) routine is
runable on a micro-computer; and (4) inverted result insensitive
to errors in the data. The inversion routine developed here will
be checked with simulated data. It will also be applied to source
data collected with a duplicate stage impactor.
FY-83
-------
Title:
Efficacy Studies of Residential Formaldehyde Control Measures
Principal Investigator:
Thaddeus J. Godish
Institution:
Ball State University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years] $J 84,198
EPA Project Number:
R 810682-010
Summary:
The principal objective of the proposal is to study and test the
efficacy of specific formaldehyde control measures including
source removal, source treatment, climate control and forced
ventilation All studies of treatment effectiveness will be
conducted using a "conventional" wood-frame house and mobile
home
The effect of source removal and replacement with low
formaldehyde-emitting substitute material will be determined in
a stepwise fashion with one source removed at a time As each
source is removed, the effect on interior formaldehyde levels will
be determined from continuous and dosimeter formaldehyde
concentration measurements. Source treatments will focus on
the use of coatings/sealants to reduce formaldehyde emissions
from wood products such as particleboard and hardwood
plywood paneling. The efficacy of humidity control on reducing
formaldehyde levels in the test houses will be determined and
information used to identify the optimum humidity level for
formaldehyde control. The effectiveness of ventilation for 3
specific contaminant problem will be determined by how the
formaldehyde is generated, the initial concentration, and the air
moving capacity of the system The efficacy of forced ventilation
for formaldehyde control will also be tested for various source
combinations.
FY-83
-------
Title:
Experimental Studies of the Heterogeneous Atmospheric Chemistry of Sulfur Dioxide
Principal Investigator:
John H. Seinfeld
Institution:
California Institute
of Technology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) SI95,712
EPA Project Number:
R 810857-010
Summary:
One of the most persistent fundamental questions that has
plagued the atmospenc science community over the last ten
years is the extent to which heterogeneous reactions are
important in atmospheric chemistry A comprehensive
experimental program investigating the heterogeneous
chemistry of SOi in systems containing iron, manganese and
carbon is proposed The major goal of the proposed research is to
further the understanding of the aerosol SOa to sulfate
conversion link in the acidic deposition chain
Two experimental systems will be used to study chemically
reacting aerosols during SOa oxidation The first is a continuous
stirred tank reactor in which an aerosol's growth and chemical
composition change resulting from gas-to-particle conversion
can be measured. The second system is an electrodynamic
balance in which the mass of a single, stably suspended, micron-
sized aerosol particle may be continuously measured as the
particle grows and reacts. Data obtained from both experimental
systems will be subjected to rigorous mathematical modeling of
the time evolution of aerosol mass and composition from which
chemical conversion mechanisms will be inferred In addition,
the electrodynamic balance will be employed to address
unresolved questions regarding thermodynamic and adsorptive
properties of atmospheric aerosols. The use of two distinctly
different, yet complementary, experimental techniques, coupled
with sophisticated mathematical data treatment, constitutes a
powerful approach for the study of heterogeneous atmospheric
chemistry
FY-83
-------
Title:
Optimal Application Cycle for Overland Flow Wastewater Treatment Systems
Principal Investigator:
Edward D. Schroeder
Institution:
University of
California—Da vis
Project Period:
16 months
Budget:
(16 months)
$119.655
EPA Project Number:
R 810530-010
Summary:
The objectives of this project are to determine the optimal
wastewater application cycles for the removal of organic
material and nitrogen in overland flow systems. Operating
procedures currently used typically incorporate application
periods of eight to twelve hours per day These periods have
been arbitrarily set on the basis of convenience, desire to
maximize the draining period, and the fact that the first systems
developed utilized similar periods and were successful. Because
of removal mechanisms involved in overland flow treatment
(sedimentation, bio-oxidation, and adsorption are of primary
importance) and the temporal and spatial variation in
aerobic/anoxic conditions during an application cycle, the
amount of removal is probably a time-dependent function, that is
it varies within the application cycle. As examples, organic
removal would be expected to decrease as the dissolved oxygen
concentration goes to zero in the slime layer at the soil-water
interface Ammonia nitrogen removal would slow as the soil
adsorption sites become saturated and as the fraction of flow
moving through the soil interface region decreases
Optimal cycle characteristics may be different for organic and
nitrogen removal. Data from preliminary studies on pilot scale
systems have significantly varied over a two-hour application
period It appears that NOa present in the soil at the time of
application is washed out or denitrified while ammonia is
adsorbed to some saturation value and then washed through.
Ammonia adsorption is hypothesized to be an.important part of
the nitnfication-denitrification sequence in land treatment and
thus factors such as rate of diffusion, permeability and draining
between application cycles are significant design and operation
variables. It is proposed to investigate these parameters using
N'5 depleted ammonium sulfate.
FY-83
-------
Title:
Experimental Studies of the Atmospheric Transformations of NO*: Implications for Long-
Range Transport
Principal Investigator:
A. M. Winer
Institution:
University of
California—
Riverside
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years/$J 98.115
EPA Project Number:
R810917-010
Summary
A two-year research program is proposed to investigate
selected aspects of the atmospheric chemistry of a spectrum of
important nitrogenous species This research will be conducted
with the spectroscopic, kinetic and environmental chamber
facilities and techniques available at the Statewide Air Pollution
Research Center
Specifically, the proposal is to:
• Expand the currently EPA-funded studies of the kinetics and
mechanisms of NOs radical reactions. In this investigation the
focus will be mainly on the determination of absolute rate
constants for the reaction of NOs with organics over the
temperature range 250-400 K The determination of these
absolute rate constants is not only important to understanding
the atmospheric role of NOa, but will also enable existing
relative rate data for the NO radical to be placed on an
absolute basis.
• Determine the kinetics and products of the reactions of
peroxyacetyl nitrate (PAN) with OH radicals PAN is a
temporary sink for NO* and may play an important role in the
long-range transport of nitrogen-containing compounds and in
the NOx budget of the troposphere Absolute and relative rate
techniques will be used to determine the rates of reactions of
PAN with OH radicals over a range of temperature relevant to
the troposphere.
• Investigate the formation and fates of organic nitrates from
the reaction of organic peroxy radicals (ROs) with NO under
simulated atmospheric conditions This will involve the
determination of organic nitrate yields over a wide range of
temperatures and pressures applicable to the troposphere,
together with an investigation of the kinetics and mechanisms
of their atmospheric loss processes (primarily reaction with
OH radicals).
These studies will provide much-needed data relevant to the
atmospheric transformations of initially-emitted oxides of
nitrogen (NO,) and to issues involving the long-range transport of
nitrogenous species
FY-83
-------
Title:
Enteric Virus Inactivation in Activated Sludge
Principal In vestigator:
Richard L Ward
Institution:
Christ Hospital
Institute of Medical
Research
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years} $147,095
EPA Project Number-
R8W821-OW
Summary:
Previous studies suggest that enteric viruses are inactivated
during activated sludge treatment and that indigenous
microorganisms are somehow responsible Little more has been
reported on viral mactivation during biological treatment of
wastewater but the possible importance of this effect is evident
in light of present reuse options for wastewater and sludge The
purpose of the study proposed here is to obtain a fundamental
understanding of the effectiveness and mechanism of enteric
virus mactivation during activated sludge treatment The
effectiveness of the process will be determined by the variety of
enteric viruses that are affected by the process and by the
irreversibility of mfectivity loss associated with the process.
Mechanism determinations will include studies on the physical,
chemical, and biological changes in viral particles and their
components that occur during treatment, the molecular and
microbial agents in activated sludge responsible for these
changes, and the means by which these agents cause their
effects Although biological wastewater treatment processes are
not presently optimized for pathogen destruction, it is anticipated
that the results of this study will provide basic information
needed to make alterations leading to safe, effective, and
inexpensive methods of viral mactivation during these processes.
FY-83
-------
Title:
Assessing the Effects of Chronic Stress on Freshwater Plant Communities and Soil
Properties: A Data-Based Modelling Approach
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Barbara L Bedford The objective of this research is to identify the key properties
of wetland vegetation and hydrologic regimes that interact to
Institution: determine distribution and growth of wetland plants, and to
Cornell University develop relatively simple field criteria by which to predict the
response of herbaceous wetland vegetation to altered flooding
Project Period: patterns. This will be approached through a combination of: (1)
3 years synthesis of an existing data base from a Wisconsin site, (2) data
acquisition from an Alaskan wetland site; (3) experimental
Budget: manipulations of water levels in controlled environments, and (4)
(2 years! $214,399 model development including evaluation using the data from the
Alaskan wetland site The approach employed in the Foret model
EPA Project Number: will be used as a general paradigm for model development.
Ft 810150-010
FY-83
-------
Title:
Plasmid Gene Transfer to Indigenous Organisms During Domestic Waste Treatment and
Disposal
Principal Investigator:
Michael A Gealt
Institution:
Drexel University
Project Period:
2 year
Budget:
{2 year) $116,000
EPA Pro/act Number:
R810049-010
Summary
The complete safety of recombmant DNA technology depends
on the capability of waste treatment facilities to eliminate, not
propagate, the engineered genetic material Our preliminary
studies indicate that transfer of multiple drug-resistance
characteristics from plasmid containing, laboratory strains (EK2
containment level) of Eschenchia coli to indigenous wastewater
bacterial species does occur at a significant level under model
treatment plant conditions Therefore, we propose a program to
determine: (1) the biological nature of the transferred gene
material, i e , whether the entire plasmid is mobilized from £ coli
in the gene transfer, (2) the recombmational activity of the gene
material when it is acquired by the indigenous wastewater
bacterial host, (3) the characterization of indigenous bacterial
host species, (4) the capability and frequency of mobilization of
genetic material specifying characteristics other than drug-
resistance; and (5) the alterations in the waste treatment
procedures which would reduce transmission of plasmid
material to the level of insignificance.
FY-83
-------
Title:
Remedial Treatment of Chronically High Volatile Acids in Anaerobic Digestion
Principal Investigator:
Richard E. Speece
Institution:
Drexel University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $199.300
EPA Project Number:
R 810633-010
Summary:
The basic purpose of this research is to determine if situations
of retarded or "stuck" anaerobic digestion, i.e , high volatile acid
levels (even at low feed rates) and slow recovery from the effect
of a toxic agent, can be relieved or prevented by the use of a
variety of inorganic nutrients. The experimental program
envisions extensive laboratory or bench scale simulations using
defined feeds If these indicate the potential for success,
experiments using digestion liquor from "stuck" digesters in the
field will be conducted
The laboratory simulations will use 4 feeds domestic sewage
sludge, cellulose, propionic acid, and acetic acid One large batch
of raw domestic sewage sludge will be concentrated by
centrifugation, divided into aliquots, and frozen at -40°C. This
will maintain feed consistency for six-month periods. The latter 3
feeds will include a mineral salts supplement of the usual
minerals required for biological activity, i e., Na, K, P, N, Cl, SO,.
One set of studies will be conducted at constant SRT (7.5 days
and 15 days) with the loading gradually increased, starting from
2 g/l/day of organics. Three units for each feed will be used at
each SRT. One will serve as a control, a second will receive an
iron supplement, and the third will receive a supplement of Fe,
Co, Mn, V, Zn, Mo, B, Ni, Tu, and Se The performance of these
units will be monitored in terms of gas production, gas
composition, organics destroyed, pH, alkalinity, and volatile acids
(total and individual). In addition, analysis for hydrogen level in
the gas and Fe, Co and Ni in solution will be conducted. A similar
set of studies will be set up in which the loading rate will be kept
constant at 4 g/l/day of organics but the SRT will be gradually
reduced from the initial value of 20 days The same feeds,
triplicate arrangement and analyses of unit performance will be
conducted. It is anticipated that the units which do not receive
the metals supplement will tend toward failure (high volatile acid
levels) as the organic loading is increased and the SRT is
decreased, before those that receive the metal supplement. If the
control fails first, its contents will be anerobically transferred
into six aliquots These will be treated as follows 1 control, 1
iron supplementation, 1 cobalt supplementation, 1 nickel
supplementation, 1 titanium reducing agent, and 1 full
complement of trace heavy metal supplementation plus the
titanium reducing agent. These six units will not be fed any
substrate after being set up The recovery of these units from the
failure condition will be followed by monitoring methane
production, hydrogen level in the gas and volatile acid speciation
In another phase of the program, parallel digesters operated at
15 day SRT and fed the 4 individual substrates at a rate of 4
gm/l/day of organics will be exposed to toxic materials (cyanide,
chloroform, oxygen, formaldehyde, sulfide, low pH) at a level
which should reduce methane production by approximately 90%
Substrate feeding will continue until the volatile acid
concentration reaches approximately 3000 mg/l. Then the
contents of each "failed" or "stuck" digester will be split
anaerobically into six aliquots and subjected to the recovery test
with various metal supplements as described previously.
In still a third laboratory test, 8 units will be set up at 15 day
SRT and a 4 gm/l/day loading with four being fed raw domestic
sewage sludge and four being fed cellulose One unit in each set
of four will then be spiked respectively with nothing (control),
FY-83
10
-------
3000 mg/l propionate, 3000 mg/l acetate and hydrogen at 10%
in the gas After one week with the feed and spike adjusted to
maintain the above levels, the contents of each digester will be
split into six parts These six will receive the various types of
heavy metal supplementation tested in the six unit recovery
pattern described above However, here daily adjustment of feed
and spike will be conducted rather than complete batch
operation as previously. In conjunction with these tests,
methanogen biomass measurement will be attempted using
methane production rate, ATP measurement, and F42ocoenzyme
assay
If the studies above indicate that addition of trace metal can
have a positive effect on anaerobic digestion, the concept will be
tested on digestion liquor from field digesters and field biogas
plants which are in a retarded or "stuck" condition Digestion
liquor will be collected from these units and anaerobically
transferred to serum bottles containing the preferred metal
supplements and reducing agents. The effect will be monitored
by methane production and volatile acid speciation. Controls will
be run
11 FY-83
-------
Title:
A Single Gene Mutagenesis System in Drosophila melanogaster
Principal In vestigator:
P Dennis Smith
Institution:
Emory University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
12 years) $122,094
EPA Project Number:
Ft 810390-010
Summary:
The objective of the project is the development and validation
of a single gene mutagenesis system in Drosophila which has
the capacity to provide exact molecular definition of induced
mutagenic events in the presence and absence of known DNA
repair deficiencies By extending the analytical capabilities of
currently available methodologies, we hope to provide a
significant refinement in the state-of-the-art of genetic
toxicology with this higher eukaryotic organism We propose this
system for studies of mutation induction because it has every
element required of a complete mutagenesis system and
features which are directly relevant to the study of mutational
events in the human population
The principal components of the system are
1 A short-term, single generaton test is employed which can
monitor mutation induction unambiguously in a large
number of progeny, allowing adequate statistical sampling
2 Mutational treatments are administered in vivo by feeding,
injection or inhalation at various life cycle stages to a highly
differentiated, sexually-reproducing animal with a genetic
structure similar to humans
3 An in vivo microsomal activation system has been shown to
have many features in common with mammalian liver
activation systems for the analysis of compounds requiring
metabolic activation
FY-83
12
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Title:
Speciation of Environmental Pollutants & Biological Materials
Principal Investigator:
J D Wmefordner
Institution:
University of Florida
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $95,000
EPA Project Number:
R 810387-010
Summary:
The proposed research is concerned with the development of
(1) a sensitive, selective, and qualitative identification of the
specific chemical forms of a metal (free or bound) in a sample,
and (2) the quantitative determination of the species in
environmental samples
The proposed analytical method is based upon the thermal
evolution of chemical species from samples containing one or
more metal constituents or certain non-metal constituents (such
as B, P, Si, etc.) which can be detected by the plasma technique
The sample is injected into an atmospheric pressure inert gas
microwave plasma and measurement recorded of the resulting
atomic emission characteristic of the element of concern By
monitoring one or more elements as a function of evolution
temperature, a selective thermal analysis is achieved whereby
the species are identified by means of elemental composition
and evolution temperature The element is quantified by
comparison of the resulting atomic emission signals with
appropriate standards
Preliminary results on an operating system have shown
feasibility The proposed research will involve development and
optimization of the analytical instrument, improvement of sample
preparation procedure, and evaluation of the technique on
synthetic and real samples.
The ultimate goals of the proposed speciation method are to (i)
identify pollutants from industrial solid waste; (n) identify toxic
compounds in biological samples, (in) evaluate toxic compounds
in drinking and waste water, (iv) extend the study to evaluate
ecosystem level effects of toxic materials, especially with regard
to food chain concentration and toxicology, and (v) extend the
analytical system for rapid screening of toxic compounds
13
FY-83
-------
Title:
The Central Nervous System: Molecular and Cellular Factors Influencing Neural
Development
Principal In vest/gator:
Paola S. Timiras
Institution:
Gordon Research
Conference
Project Period:
2 months
Budget:
12 months} $8,000
EPA Project Number:
R 810784-010
Summary.
The proposed Conference focuses on the application of gene
cloning and monoclonal antibodies to neural specific markers.
These neural specific markers are shown to exist as multigene
families, a provocative finding in terms of neural regulation and
differentiation
In conjunction with these recent advances other aspects of
neural differentiation and growth will be presented within the
framework of sessions dealing with neural genetics, and neural
molecular genetics, glial development, neurite outgrowth, cell
recognition, synaptogenesis, cell interaction, hormones and
growth factors influencing neural development. The format of
the Conference will provide maximum interaction between the
major speakers, no more than three per session, and the
attendees who are encouraged to participate actively in the
discussions and to present posters
FY-83
14
-------
Title:
Chemistry of Fixed Nitrogen in Polluted Estuaries
Principal In vestigator:
Steven C Wofsy
Institution:
Harvard University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $218,500
EPA Project Number:
R 810219-010
Summary.
The proposed work will investigate nitrogen transformations in
polluted tidal rivers and elucidate factors controlling production
or loss of N20 and NO in the environment, with particular
attention to biological processes
The proposed research will measure rates of primary
nitrification (ammonium to nitrate) in situ in the Delaware and
Potomac Estuaries by adding small quantities of 15NH4+ and
measuring the rate of appearance of 15NC>2 and 16N03~ 15N
analysis will be performed using a low cost emission
spectrometer. Incubation procedures, similar to the one used by
the investigators in earlier studies, will be used 15N will also be
measured in ammonium fractions to determine the regeneration
rates and assimilation rates of 15NH/. In addition, evolution of
N20 and NO will be measured in the incubation flasks NO will
be measured using laser-induced fluorescence instruments,
which can determine levels as low as one ppb Outputs of these
studies include. (1) measurement of nitrification rates with
detailed studies of nutrient and dissolved gas concentrations in
the Delaware and Potomac Estuaries; and (2) information on the
origin of N2O and NO.
A mathematical model obtained from the combination of a
chemical kinetic model and a hydraulic model will be developed
Experimental data collected in the field and controlled
experiments will be used for verification of the model
The proposed experimental research will obtain new insight
into the nitrogen chemistry of polluted waters The proposed
model for polluted estuaries should have direct application to
problems relevant to the control of water pollution
15
FY-83
-------
Title:
Fundamental Analytical Mass Spectrometric Studies Exploiting Laser lonization
Principal In vestigator:
James P. Reilly
Institution:
Indiana University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $173,269
EPA Project Number:
Ft SI0896-010
Summary:
In recent EPA sponsored experiments the utility of combining a
capillary column gas chromatograph with a laser mass
spectrometer detector has been demonstrated Work under this
grant is concerned with improving the sensitivity and selectivity
of this technique, through a series of apparatus changes The
goal is to attain sub-femtogram detection sensitivity for
substituted aromatic compounds (mainly halogenated aromatics)
and those containing sulfur and nitrogen heteroatoms After
these improvements have been completed and tested, additional
molecular species (in particular larger and more thoroughly
halogenated aromatic species) will be studied.
New methods of photoelectron spectroscopy and UV laser
induced surface lonization mass spectrometry have recently
been developed in this laboratory The former technique, which
involves irradiating a molecular beam with pulsed laser light, will
be applied in spectroscopic studies of transient species that are
of interest to atmospheric photochemists The latter will be
probed as a method of introducing non-volatile samples into
mass spectrometers. The velocity distribution of ions generated
by laser induced surface lonization will also be investigated in
order to assess the importance of this distribution in determining
resolution in a time of flight laser mass spectrometer.
FY-83
16
-------
Title:
Molecular-Beam/Mass-Spectroscopic Study of Chlorinated Hydrocarbon Flames
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Selim M. Senkan Controlled thermal combustion of chlorinated hydrocarbons
(CHCs) is an effective method for the treatment of chemical
Institution: wastes bearing these compounds However, our present day
Illinois Institute understanding of the detailed chemistry and mechanisms of CHC
of Techno/ogy combustion is very limited, due, in part, to the limitations
imposed by the experimental techniques utilized in the past
_ . _ ... Therefore, we are proposing to study the atmospheric pressure,
, ' premixed, flat-flames of chlorinated hydrocarbon with the aid of
a molecular-beam/mass-spectrometer (MB/MS) system, such
that the formation and destruction of the stable, radical and
Budget: short living species can simultaneously be observed Probing the
(2 yearsl $277,545 CHC f|ames at atmospheric pressure is possible because of the
unusually broad reaction zones (1-2 cm } present in these
EPA Project Number: systems, which we have recently demonstrated in our
Ft 810381-010 laboratories
17 FY-83
-------
Title:
A Study of Activated Carbon Adsorption in Vertically Stratified Beds
Principal In vestigator:
Alexander P
Mathews
Institution:
Kansas State
University
Project Period:
15 months
Budget:
115 months) $35.660
EPA Project Number:
R 810432-010
Summary:
In activated carbon absorbers used in practice, the particle size
varies along the length of the bed. An adsorption model and
computer program are developed to describe such systems The
effect of a range of particle sizes in batch reactor studies is
investigated to determine the effect on estimated surface
diffusivities. Several methods of arriving at a mean diameter to
describe the size distribution are evaluated
Adsorption rate studies are conducted in batch reactors using
several size fractions Particle size analyses are made for each
size fraction and the size distribution is used in adsorption
models to estimate diffusivities Fixed bed experiments are
conducted using known size fractions in the bed, and the data
are analyzed in the framework of a stratified bed model.
FY-83
18
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Title:
Permeation of Hazardous Waste Through Landfill Formulated of Clay
Principal Investigator:
H. Y. Fang
Institution:
Lehigh University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $260.845
EPA Project Number:
R 810922-010
Summary:
The goals of this research are to develop valid techniques to
determine permeability of waste leachates through geotechmcal
materials, especially clay materials commonly used as
permeation barriers. Techniques will be used to properly
measure permeation of leachates through geotechmcal
materials under controlled conditions. These techniques will be
used to generate data to formulate empirical permeation models
The ultimate goal is to develop theoretical permeation models
which will allow prediction of permeation rates based on
chemical characteristics of the leachate, chemical characteristics
of the clay material, and geotechmcal properties of the clay
barrier material. These models will then be used to predict long-
term stability of existing waste contaminant systems as well as
to design future facilities
Previous techniques for measuring the permeation of various
solvents through clay material have been inadequate Shrinkage
and swelling, especially the former, may result in bulk transport
of the solvent through the sample container which is not
representative of the true situation. A modified triaxial cell
assembly overcomes the problem previously encountered with
shrinkage and swelling of the clay in a rigid sample container
The fundamental purpose of a triaxial cell is to control the state
of stress on the sample. Clayey soils will be formulated from
sand and various clays and consolidated in a triaxial apparatus at
effective stresses representative of those in clay liners
Clays which will be used to make the test liners are Kaohmte,
Illite, and Montmorillomte These are representative of the most
common materials used for liners in waste disposal sites The
three materials will cover the majority of geotechmcal barrier
materials used in practice
A total of nine geotechmcal and soil chemistry tests will be
utilized in the study These are permeability, triaxial sheer and
pore pressure measurement, Atterberg limit, grain size
distribution, bulk, density, zeta potential, cation exchange
capacity, x-ray defraction, and scanning electron microscopy
Six chemicals in addition to "standard water" were ident.fied
for the initial tests These are NaOH, HCI, aniline, acetic acid,
acetone, and CCU In addition to being representative of general
classes of chemicals, all of these have been reported to be
present m waste leachates The initial studies will be at two
concentrations The maximum concentration level will be similar
to that expected in most leachates The low concentration should
have minor, .f any, effect on parameters in the Gouy-Chapman
model.
The data generated as a result of the laboratory testing
program will be analyzed using appropriate statistical
procedures Once the pore fluid-clay interactions a.re
established, the predictions resulting from application of the
Gouy-Chapman model will be compared with those determined
in the laboratory
19
FY-83
-------
Title:
Field Research on Radon Removal with GAC
Principal In vestigator:
Jerry D Lowry
Institution:
University of
Maine at Orono
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $83.861
EPA Project Number:
R 810829-010
Summary:
A two-year field and laboratory research project will
demonstrate and determine the cost effectiveness of using
granular activated carbon (GAC) to remove radon from private
ground water supplies. A second objective is to establish a
design model for future applications of the technology to
municipal water treatment applications At least three different
GAC products will be used in 27 steady state adsorption/decay
runs in the field. A discretized GAC bed will be utilized in the
laboratory to establish the kinetics of steady state
adsorption/decay as a function of steady state radon
concentration in the bulk solution These data will lead to a
predictive model to determine the treatment performance
characteristics for any influent radon mass loading rate
FY-83
20
-------
Title:
Regional Scale Receptor Mode/ing in the Northeast Quadrant of the U.S
Principal In vestigator:
Glen E. Gordon
Institution:
University of
Maryland
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $168,835
EPA Project Number:
R 810403-010
Summary:
Receptor modeling is becoming increasingly successful for
determination of the sources of particulate matter in urban air,
but has been used very little on a regional scale (100s of km)
Rahn has used the ratio of non-crustal Mn to non-crustal V,
(Mn/V)xs, as a tracer of Midwestern air masses into the eastern
US in an attempt to determine the origins of sulfate and acidity
While this is a promising approach, there are many uncertainties
that must be addressed in order to place regional scale receptor
modeling on a firm foundation If that can be done, the method
will be of considerable value in tracing pollutants on a scale of
100s of km As a first step in the development of regional scale
receptor modeling, the research community needs a large, very
complete data set obtained in rural areas Results from the EPA
Ohio River Valley Study (ORVS) meet nearly all of the criteria
except that elemental concentrations were determined by x-ray
fluorescence (XRF), which is not sensitive enough to observe
concentrations of a number of trace elements that may provide
clear indicators of particles from certain areas or types of
sources. This project will use the XRF data and trajectories for
the sampling periods of the ORVS samples to identify about one-
third to one-half of them for further analysis by instrumental
neutron activation analysis which, combined with the XRF data,
will provide results for up to 40 elements The resulting data will
be used to investigate a number of fundamental questions that
must be answered before regional scale receptor modeling can
be used with confidence, e.g., do particles from cities bear
characteristic compositions that hold up over long distances, do
coal-fired plants have clear "signals" that can be identified, are
there better Midwestern tracers than (Mn/V)«s ratios?
21
FY-83
-------
Title:
Removal of Non-Volatile Chloroorganic Compoundsand Their Precursors by GAC Adsorption
Principal Investigator:
Neil M. Ram
Institution:
University of
Massachusetts
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $108.307
EPA Project Number:
R 810492-010
Summary:
The toxic and carcinogenic risks associated with the mgestion
of chlorinated water may not be attributable to tnhalomethanes.
The possibility exists that non-volatile Chloroorganic byproducts
of disinfection with chlorine may be the agents of toxicological
and carcinogenic risk This is supported by the findings that non-
volatile Chloroorganic products of chlorination can comprise the
majority of bound halogen in chlorinated water and have been
associated with a positive test for mutagenicity by the Ames test
Studies, then, need to be directed towards examining treatment
methods for removing non-volatile Chloroorganic compounds or
their precursors from water supplies. While numerous
investigations have been directed towards the removal of THMs
and their precursors by granular activated carbon (GAC)
adsorption, very little corresponding effort has been directed in
assessing the adsorptive behavior of potentially deleterious non-
volatile Chloroorganic compounds and their precursors, onto
GAC. The proposed research will, therefore, assess the ability of
GAC to adsorb non-volatile Chloroorganic compounds and their
precursors from aqueous solution with or without preozonation
by monitoring total, purgeable, and non-purgeable organic
carbon and organic halide, as group parameters, during
adsorption studies This approach seems particularly appropriate
since only a minor portion of all halogenated micropollutants is
amenable to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry methods of
identification Adsorption studies using these group parameters
would therefore provide important information about the removal
efficiency of GAC for deleterious Chloroorganic constituents or
their precursors. The research will utilize both batch equilibrium
studies as well as fixed bed adsorption experiments to
characterize the adsorption behavior of non-volatile compounds
or their precursors onto GAC which formed upon reaction with
either chlorine or chlorine dioxide
FY-83
22
-------
Title:
Sequential/Competitive Reactions in Catalytic Oxidation of Model Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
Principal Investigator:
Michael P Manning
Institution:
Massachusetts
Institute of
Technology
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
{2 years) $196.897
EPA Project Number:
R 810397-010
Summary:
The oxidation of model chlorinated hydrocarbons has been
shown to proceed over chromia catalyst in the temperature
range 500-800°K. Shifts in reaction rate, yield, and selectivity
have been shown to occur as a function of reactant conversion,
and product or intermediate inhibitor (H2O, CO, HCI, etc.)
concentrations Similar results have been observed previously
with hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide oxidation reactions
inhibited by water over chromia catalysts Catalytic oxidation
experiments performed to date have shown a small amount of
formation of more chlorinated species Alkylation of one species
to form larger chlorinated hydrocarbon species may also be
possible. A recycle reactor which permits measurement of the
chlorocarbon oxidation kinetics in the presence of uniform
concentrations of all inhibitors has been developed This reactor
will be used to measure the rate of oxidation of pairs of
potentially interacting model chlorinated hydrocarbons. Inlet and
outlet concentrations will be measured by gas chromatography.
Kinetic rate expressions will be developed by standard
regression techniques.
23
FY-83
-------
Title:
Anthropogenic Modification of the Silica Cycle in the Great Lakes
Principal Investigator:
Eugene F Stoermer
Institution:
University of
Michigan
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years! $113,960
EPA Project Number:
R 810396-010
Summary:
The objective of the proposed work is to determine the long-
term effects of eutrophication in a Great Lakes ecosystem
Phosphorus enrichment of the Great Lakes results in silica
depletion and to modification of the food chain Because of the
unusual hydrologic budget, recent data suggests that such
changes occurred much earlier than previously realized A
quantitative understanding of responses is necessary to allow
best management of the Great Lakes resource
The investigator proposes a detailed analysis of diatom
population succession in terms of both species composition and
abundance and a chemical analysis of the amount of biogenic
silica deposited in radiometrically dated cores Available cores
from areas of rapid deposition in Lakes Erie and Ontario will be
utilized Additional field sampling will be carried out in Lake
Michigan because of its more complex morphometry and loading
characteristics Also, it is the lake which has most recently
undergone eutrophication and silica depletion according to
available historical records
FY-83
24
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Title:
The Impacts of Background Compounds on the Adsorption of Hazardous Organics from
Concentrated Liquid and Solid Waste Leachates and Seepages
Principal Investigator:
Walter J. Weber, Jr.
Institution:
University of
Michigan
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $140,891
EPA Project Number:
R 810486-010
Summary:
The removal of toxic and carcinogenic compounds from landfill
leachates and waste dump seepages is of paramount
importance, yet relatively little is known about the behavior of
such compounds in actual treatment operations A specific and
fundamental deficiency exists in our understanding of the
interactions of such pollutants with naturally occurring organic
material, and the impacts of such interactions on their removal
in leachate treatment operations
It has been shown that a number of priority pollutants exhibit
different physical and chemical characteristics in the presence of
humic and fulvic acids while the behavior of others appears to be
independent of background solution This research investigates
these interactive phenomena for leachate and seepage
treatment operations utilizing activated carbon adsorption
processes Adsorption is an economical and reliable method for
removing many priority pollutants from single-solute solutions,
this research concentrates on the more realistic situation of
solutions containing complex mixtures of background organics.
The results of the study are expected to have implications and
findings that extend well beyond adsorption processes. A
necessary part of such a study involves a detailed evaluation of
numerous pollutant/humic interactions in the hope that a better
understanding of the effects of humic materials on the removal
of organic pollutants in all treatment processes will evolve.
25
FY-83
-------
Title:
Scientific Basis for the Selection of Polymers for Water Treatment
Principal In vestigator:
Mriganka M Ghosh
Institution:
University of
Missouri
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $72,454
EPA Project Number:
Ft 809807-010
Summary:
New water quality standards and recent water pollution
control requirements have created a significant increase in the
use of synthetic polymers in the water industry Use of
polyelectrolytes in direct filtration may result in substantial cost
savings in capital expenditures caused by the elimination of
settling basins and, in some cases, flocculation basins. Further,
use of polyelectrolytes as the primary coagulant may minimize
the problem of sludge handling. In direct filtration using
polyelectrolytes, the absence of voluminous hydrolyzing metal
hydroxides means longer filter runs Currently, most often
polymers are selected on a hit-or-miss basis There is a
tremendous need for developing a scientific basis for polymer
selection for the water industry. The main objective of the
proposed research is to study the particle-polymer interaction
from the standpoints of polymer molecular weight, charge
density, flocculated particle size distribution, and polymer-mixing
energies, in an effort to develop a rational method for polymer
selection Such a need is demonstrated by the recent formation
of a polyelectrolytes standards committee by the American
Water Works Association.
FY-83
26
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Title:
Survival, Growth and Genetic Recombination of New Genomes in Soil and Other Natural
Ecosystems
Principal Investigator:
Guenther Stotzky
Institution:
New York University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
11 year I $66,277
EPA Project Number:
R 809067-010
Summary:
The survival, establishment, and growth of bacteria in natural
habitats are dependent partly on their genetic constitution and,
perhaps to an even greater extent, on the chemical and physical
characteristics of the habitats (e g , organic and inorganic
nutrients, moisture, temperature, pressure, gaseous
composition, radiation, pH, Eh, surfaces, toxicants) The impact of
these physicochemical factors is greater on the establishment of
introduced microbes than it is on indigenous populations As the
relative importance of each factor and of their interactions differs
with the type of habitat, the impact cannot always be predicted
without experimentation Furthermore, these factors also
influence the survival of "naked" and "encapsulated" DNA, i e ,
used in transformation and transduction in natural habitats,
even in the absence of appropriate hosts, as well as the ability of
bacteria capable of genetic recombination to transfer and accept
both chromosomal and plasmid DNA
27
FY-83
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Title:
Atmospheric Reactions and Atmospheric Mutagenic Changes in Emissions from Common
Fuels—An Outdoor Chamber Study
Principal Investigator:
Richard Kamens
Institution:
University of
North Carolina—
Chapel Hill
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $149,991
EPA Project Number:
R810773-010
Summary:
The purpose of this research is to study the chemical
transformations and associated bioaction that paniculate
emissions from common fuels undergo once they are emitted
into the atmosphere Many researchers have demonstrated that
the organic particle extracts taken directly from combustion
sources have a measurable mutagenicity as determined from
Ames mutagenic screening procedures Little is known,
however, about the transformations of these emissions once
they have left the stack and age and interact with other
pollutants in the atmosphere. There is some preliminary and
indirect evidence to suggest that changes do occur Very recent
work conducted at the University of North Carolina in outdoor
chambers has shown that the mutagenic activity of dilute soot
particles can be enhanced by a factor of 2-5 after reacting wood
smoke in the dark with 0 2-0 3 ppm mixtures of 63 and NC>2 One
may speculate that similar types of atmospherically induced
mutagenic changes occur with emissions from other fuels such
as diesel, peat and coal, but the magnitude of these changes is
unknown Hence there is a strong need to evaluate the
atmospheric mutagenicity of different sources under a range of
controlled, realistic outdoor conditions and factor this into urban
air mutagenicity estimates There is a need to identify the
chemical species or groups of compounds which potentially give
rise to these mutagenicity changes This will lead to a better
understanding of atmospheric transformation processes for the
different emission types Dilute combustion products will be
added to two existing 25 m3 outdoor environmental chambers
from a diesel automobile and a commonly used residential wood
stove, which will be used to burn peat, coal, and wood These
chamber systems will then be exposed to sub-ppm
concentrations of N02 and 03, both in the light and in the dark,
and to photochemically active smog systems in natural sunlight
Particle extract samples will be fractionated so that 10-1 5
selected PAHs, mtroaromatics, quinones and phenolic
compounds can be traced during an experiment Ames type
mutagenicity tests on initial and final extracts will also be
conducted
FY-83
28
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Title:
Environmental Carcinogen Perturbation of Differentiation and Induction of Carcinogenesis
Human Epithelial Cells
Principal Investigator:
George E M/lo
Institution:
Oh/o State
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $159,877
EPA Project Number:
Ft 810407-010
Summary:
The objective of this proposal is to examine the mechanism of
how airborne xenobiotic carcinogens of interest to EPA interact
with human epithelial cells in vitro. We have selected the human
lung type II cell as a target The program for expression of a
carcinogenic insult in lung type II cells in vitro has already been
completed What we need to understand is the relationship
between the metabolic activation of specific airborne
carcinogens, carcinogen-DNA adduct formation, expression of
the carcinogenic insult and perturbation of the differentiated
process of these target cells Correlative support studies also will
be undertaken to examine this program with the program of
carcmogenesis in isogenic lung fibroblast.
Carcinogen-DNA adduct studies completed here will also be
undertaken in keratmocytes to evaluate how human "skin"
responds to the carcinogenic insult at the DNA level of response
Lastly, the parameters defined for the in vitro transformations
will be evaluated with tumor tissue from human patients to
validate the indices presented here for measuring achorage
independent growth, allular mvasiveness and neoplasm.
29
FY-83
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Title:
Sampling and Characterization of Organic Aerosols
Principal Investigator:
James J. Huntzicker
Institution:
Oregon Graduate
Center for Study and
Research
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $177,592
EPA Project Number:
R 810356-010
Summary.
The sampling of organic aerosol is complicated by the
vapor-particulate equilibria which exists for organic compounds
present in aerosols The presence of a compound in both phases
can lead to sampling artifacts which are poorly understood at the
present time. Such artifacts include volatilization losses during
sampling and adsorption of organic vapors onto the filler
material and deposited aerosol The proposed research will
examine these phenomena in detail Measurements of both
volatilization loss and adsorption gain will be made as a function
of filter face velocity. Specific compounds responsible for these
artifacts will be identified by solvent-extraction GC/MS analysis
The relationship of the artifacts to the organic vapor phase
composition will also be explored. From these experiments an
optimum sampling procedure for organic aerosol will be devised
and will be used for measuring the concentration of organic
material in atmospheric aerosols
FY-83
30
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Title:
The Contribution of Residential Wood Burning to Urban Air Pollution
Principal Investigator:
M A K. Khalil
Institution:
Oregon Graduate
Center for Study and
Research
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $182,428
EPA Project Number:
R810091-OW
Summary:
Because of the rising costs of traditional fuels, many people
have begun to use wood to provide all or part of their residential
space heating needs This growing dependence on wood has
increased the paniculate air pollution burden on many American
cities. The goal of the proposed research is to develop and
evaluate an experimental methodology to determine accurately
the contribution of residential wood burning to paniculate urban
air pollution Detailed studies of important fine particle sources
(wood burning, distillate and residual oil combustion, natural gas
combustion, and vehicular exhaust) will be made Parameters to
be measured include the chemical composition of the aerosol,
the mass distributions of the chemical components (in particular,
organic and elemental carbon), and the ratio of methyl chloride
(CH3CI) to fine aerosol mass CH3CI is a recently recognized vapor
phase tracer for wood smoke Simultaneous receptor site
measurements will include the chemical composition of the fine
aerosol, mass distribution of the important chemical
components, and the concentration of CH3CI The contribution of
wood burning will be deduced in three ways from the ambient
measurement of CH3CI and the ratio (CH3CI/fme aerosol) in
wood smoke; from chemical element balance calculations using
the ambient chemical data and the source compositions for wood
smoke and other important sources of fine aerosol; and by the
size distribution balance approach. This last method is a linear
least squares reconstruction of the ambient size mass
distribution for organic or elemental carbon (the principal
chemical species in wood smoke) from the mass distributions
from the various sources.
31
FY-83
-------
Title:
Potential for Biotransformation of Toxic Chemicals Defined by a Molecular Probe
Principal Investigator:
Ramon J Seidler
Institution:
Oregon State
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $126,550
EPA Project Number:
R 810645-010
Summary:
The purpose of this study is to develop and test a new method
that can be used to predict the fate of specific synthetic
chemicals which enter the environment This will be
accomplished by cloning genes which code for a specific
structural activity group of xenobiotics. The clone genes will be
used as a "reagent" or probe for directly enumerating bacteria
which possess the synthetic chemical metabolizing enzymes.
Within 2-3 days the size of the microbial population which is
capable of metabolizing the chemical(s) will be known The assay
will be standardized by using conventional techniques for
detecting such bacteria
The technique is widely applicable for studying the fate of any
group of synthetic chemicals which may enter the environment.
Results of the assay can be used by the regulatory agency for
predicting the relative persistence of toxic synthetic chemicals in
various locations and environments.
FY-83
32
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Title:
Studies of Non-Cultivatable Agents of Viral Gastroenteritis
Principal Investigator:
Raphael Do/in
Institution:
University of
Rochester Medical
Center
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $50,547
EPA Project Number:
R 310612-010
Summary:
The overall purpose of the proposed studies is to generate
information which will lead to the design, development and
evaluation of control measures for a significant public health
problem, acute viral gastroenteritis, which appears to be, at least
in part, waterborne The studies are intended to represent a
systematic investigation of the Snow Mountain Agent, a new
agent recently described by the principal investigator. To the best
of our knowledge, no other individuals or groups are studying
this agent, hence the proposed studies represent a unique set of
investigations in this area Although the experiments are to be
performed with the Snow Mountain Agent, it is clear that such
studies may have direct applicability to other occult agents of
viral gastroenteritis, such as the Norwalk or Hawaii agent The
principal investigator has accumulated significant amounts of
material from volunteer studies with these other agents, and
techniques which prove successful in the study of SMA could be
applied directly to study of Norwalk and Hawaii agents as well
33
FY-83
-------
Title:
Using the Natural Detoxification Capacities of Organisms to Assess the Environmental
Impact of Contaminants
Principal In vestigator:
David Brown
Institution:
Southern California
Coastal Water
Research Project
Authority
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(1 year) $100,000
EPA Project Number:
R 810248-0 W
Summary:
The loading or binding capacity of detoxification systems for
trace metals or xenobiotic hydrocarbons is unknown for marine
organisms. As a result, the degrees of saturation of these
systems in marine organisms from the contaminated areas
remain unknown The objectives of this proposal are: (1) to
develop a contaminant-specific in situ bioassay capable of
assessing the impact of trace metals and xenobiotic
hydrocarbons on marine organisms, (2) this in situ assay should
be capable of assessing both the acute (short-term) and chronic
(long-term) impact of contaminants on the organisms, (3) this
project will refine current methods for assessing the partitioning
of trace metals between sites of deto'xification and sites of toxic
action and develop parallel procedures for determining
partitioning of xenobiotic hydrocarbons, and (4) the loading
capacity of the detoxification systems for both trace metals and
hydrocarbons will be defined
Once loading capacity is determined, we should be able to
predict how much more contaminant can be released into these
environments before detoxification capacities of certain species
will be exceeded, with resultant spill-over of contaminants into
sites of toxic action and the resultant detrimental effect on the
organism
FY-83
34
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Title:
Flow Cytometry of Sperm as a Dosimeter of Toxic Chemical Health Hazards
Principal Investigator:
Donald P Evenson
Institution:
South Dakota
State University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $119,337
EPA Project Number:
R 810986-010
Summary:
This project is intended to develop new flow cytometry
techniques to measure minimal chromosomal damage to sperm
and lymphocytes of individuals following either a single exposure
or multiple low-level exposures to hazardous chemical agents
Biological markers of chemical exposure are presently
inadequate for monitoring this type of exposure, but the effects
on reproduction and chromosomes are believed to provide the
most sensitive test (Science 215 643, 1982) Our present
proposal utilizes newly developed flow cytometry techniques to
assess the sensitive cell types With these techniques, it is
possible to detect and quantitate statistically, rare as well as
early, adverse changes in sperm chromatin (Evenson et al,
Science 240 1131, 1980) as well as alterations of DMA content
and chromosome structure in lymphocytes in response to
irradiation (Evenson et al, in preparation) or to mutagenic
chemicals (Otto et al, 1981).
We intend to modify and further develop our present
methodology to increase the sensitivity of flow cytometry to
changes in sperm morphology and chromatin structure,
comparing the measurements obtained in animals exposed to a
variety of potentially toxic chemicals with observations and
measurements of sperm by light and electron microscopy
All modifications in the flow cytometry technique will be
optimized by means of careful dose-response analysis The
features to be measured will include: (1) number and type of
chemically-induced shape abnormalities of sperm, (2) chromatin
thermal denaturation profile of sperm and lymphocytes, devised
by us; (3) accessibility to various fluorescent probes of sperm and
lymphocyte chromatin structure; and (4) alterations of
lymphocyte chromatin and DNA content
35
FY-83
-------
Title:
Long-Term Measurements of Trace Chemicals in the Troposphere
Principal Investigator:
H. B Singh
Institution:
SRI International
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $130,443
EPA Project Number:
R 810573-010
Summary:
The atmospheric burdens, growth and fates of the halogenated
and many nonhalogenated pollutants proposed here for
investigation are poorly understood Significant quantities of
these chemicals are released into the environment, the sources
of the emissions are primarily man-made. In predicting the
environmental effects of pollutants, it is also essential to study
the natural atmosphere and its interaction with man-made
chemicals The possibility of destruction of stratospheric ozone
by halogenated compounds and the toxicity and carcmogenicity
of stable pollutants make continued research urgent In addition,
a number of these globally distributed chemicals absorb infrared
radiation, which could cause a warming of the earth's
atmosphere On the positive side, many halocarbons (such as
methyl chloroform) are convenient chemical tracers for studying
the chemistry of the natural atmosphere
During the proposed three-year study, biweekly measurements
of some 33 selected trace constituents will be made, which will
include most of the important trace species of interest, man-
made as well as natural These measurements will be made at a
clean coastal site in California Similar measurements have been
made since 1979 Sufficient data will be collected to establish
seasonal and long-term trends in the abundance of tropospheric
constituents.
FY-83
36
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Title:
Iron Treatment by Sodium Silicate and Chlorine
Principal Investigator: Summary:
Robert B. Robinson Effective treatment of iron in potable water usually involves
expensive water plants comprised of aeration, detention,
Institution: filtration, chemical addition, and repumping Another treatment
University of technique has been pioneered in Ontario, Canada, which relies
Tennessee on'V on tne addition of sodium silicate and chlorine, the small
capital cost of this treatment is attractive to small towns, but this
„ . „ ... treatment has found wide use only in Ontario The lack of wider
2 years ' use is perhaps due to a poor understanding of the fundamentals
behind the treatment, a fear of easy solutions, and a need for a
better dosage formula. This research aims to develop an
Budget: understanding of the fundamentals behind this treatment
(2 years) $95,681 method.
EPA Project Number:
R810731-OW
37 FY-83
-------
Title:
tie'
Continuous Determination of Ambient Hydrogen Peroxide: Airborne Measurements of H202
HCHO and S(IV) in Cloudwater and Gas Phase
Principal Investigator:
Purenendu K.
Dasgupta
Institution:
Texas Tech
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(2 years) $90,103
EPA Project Number:
R 810894-010
Summary:
A continuous monitor for the measurement of gas phase H2O2
with a limit of detection of < 0 1 ppbv H2Oa (g) will be developed.
A continuous flow system (microflow conditions) with a
fluorescence detector will be coupled with an existing diffusion
scrubber The diffusion scrubber is able to provide an air/water
transfer coefficient some 500-fold better than that attained by a
midget bubbler The analytical reaction will involve the oxidation
of p-hydroxyphenylacetic acid with H202 in the presence of
peroxidase to produce a fluorescent dimer. This method will also
be adapted for measurement of H202 in cloudwater Additionally,
the formation and destruction of H202 from and by Oa will be
studied as a function of [Oa], pH, electrolyte concentration,
presence of transition metal ions, Cl~, unsaturated hydrocarbons
and S(IV) Techniques will be developed to distinguish between
HCHO bound and free S(IV) and between S(IV)-bound and free
HCHO Measurements of HCHO, S(IV) and H202 in cloudwater
and the surrounding gas phase will be carried out with these
methods The ammonium salt of hydroxymethanesulfonic acid
will be synthesized and its volatility measured
FY-83
38
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Title:
Habitat Selection and Population Dynamics of Dominant Fishes in Estuanne Nurseries, A
Framework for Evaluating the Role of Shallow Water Habitats
Principal Investigator:
Michael P.
Weinste/n
Institution:
Virgin/a
Commonwealth
University
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
C\ year) $45.931
EPA Project Number:
R 810334-010
Summary:
The objectives of this proposal are to determine the optimum
shallow water habitats for young spot and other fish species in
the lower Chesapeake Bay, and to ascertain how open the
populations are, once they have been recruited into the
nurseries Growth and size-at-age will be used as an index of
habitat suitability. Marsh and seagrass meadow nurseries will be
assessed in terms of relative habitat value
Mark-recapture techniques will be used to determine habitat
preferences, residence time and population turnover rate for
spot, an ubiquitous and key species of estuarme studies
The study site is the York River in Virginia, a major tributary of
the Chesapeake Bay It is relatively uninfluenced by human
impact and offers the habitats of interest viz., extensive marshes
and tidal creeks, freshwater to polyhahne zones and large
seagrass meadows.
39
FY-83
-------
Title:
Use of Direct Freeze Conditioning Techniques to Improve Biological Sludge Dewatenng
Characteristics
Principal In ves tig a to r:
William R Knocke
Institution:
Virginia Polytechnic
Institute and
State University
Project Period:
1 year and 5 months
Budget:
(1 year and 5 months/
$71,743
EPA Project Number:
R 810893-010
Summary:
The research program will examine use of immiscible gases as
a potential cost-competitive alternative for improved sludge
dewatering Direct freeze-thaw conditioning techniques using
hydrate forming gases (propane, Freon) will be compared from
an economic viewpoint to the use of conventional (chemical)
conditioning techniques. Specific objectives of the research are
to. (a) develop a prototype continuous flow direct freeze reactor
and optimize sludge conditioning using immiscible gases, (b)
examine the impact of freeze-thaw conditioning on such sludge
parameters as particle size, density, and internal water content
and ultimately on the rate and extent of sludge dewatering, (c)
examine interaction of refrigerant gas and the sludge to
determine potential for formation of gas-water complexes; and
(d) compare economics to commercially available chemical
conditioning methods (lime, iron, polymers).
FY-83
40
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Title:
Evaluation of Building-Wake Dispersion Algorithms and Development of a Realistic Wake
Model
Principal Investigator:
Brian Lamb
Institution:
Washington State
University
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
(1 year) $32,437
EPA Project Number:
Ft 810450-010
Summary:
The data from an extensive tracer investigation of pollutant
transport and dispersion near an isolated building will be used in
a quantitative evaluation of currently available gaussian
dispersion models including the Industrial Source Complex (ISC)
model and the Point, Area, and Line Source (PAL) model The
results of this analysis will be used to direct improvements in the
treatment of dispersion rates and plume heights in these models
Two recent theoretical methods describing flow around
obstacles will be used as the basis for developing a more
realistic wake dispersion model One approach involves the
application of potential flow theory to flow over a building with
turbulent eddy diffusion incorporated in the streamline model
This model can be used to predict concentrations in the
recirculation cavity and in the wake downwind of the building
The second approach employs superposition of momentum wake
and vortex wake theories to predict scalar dispersion in the far
wake of the building. Computer algorithms of both approaches
will be developed and the models will be tested by sensitivity
analyses and by evaluation against the tracer data The results of
this research will be combined to provide the best overall
approach for modeling flow around buildings
41
FY-83
-------
Title:
Aerosol Extinction Measurement
Principal Investigator:
Alan Waggoner/
Ray Weiss
Institution:
University of
Washington
Project Period:
1 year
Budget:
11 yearl $62,976
EPA Project Number:
R 810837-010
Summary:
Measurement and modeling of visual effects of pollutants is
required under the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1977. Almost
all effects are proportional to an optical parameter, the extinction
coefficient, equal to the sum of scattering and absorption by
particles and gases. In most cases, particle extinction determines
visual air quality and there are standard techniques for
measurement of scattering and absorption by particles. There
appears to be some uncertainty in the scientific literature as to
the accuracy of the integrating nephelometer used to measure
scattering and the integrating plate used to measure absorption
The accuracy of these two extinction measurement techniques
will be tested using laboratory aerosols and measurement of
extinction by light attenuation over a 24-meter length optical
cell. The cell sensitivity for measurement of extinction is of order
2 X 10~5 rrT1, about 1% of the extinction level of typical aerosol in
this study The cell has been tested using scattering aerosol by
comparison to an integrating nephelometer. Measured (R2)
correlation of scattering and extinction, when the concentration
of laboratory aerosol is changed by dilution, is greater than
0 9998. Absorbing aerosol will be generated from dye and from
graphitic carbon to calibrate the integrating plate method and
compare various filter media against Nuclepore. Internally mixed
aerosol, made from a mixture of absorbing and nonabsorbing
materials, will be used to model ambient particles in the tests of
methods to determine absorption. Extinction and scattering by
spherical and non-spherical particles will be compared to test for
effects of particle shape. The results of this program will define
the confidence with which extinction can be measured in the
ambient atmosphere and modeled from calculated aerosol
concentration
FY-83
42
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Title:
Membrane-Covered Rotating Disk Electrode
Principal In ves tig a tor:
R B, Smart
Institution:
West Virginia
University
Project Period:
3 years
Budget:
(2 years) $61,107
EPA Project Number:
R 810540-010
Summary:
The purpose of this project is the development and application
of a membrane-covered rotating disk electrode for measurement
of trace metals in the environment Artifacts due to the
adsorption of organics on mercury electrodes have been a major
hindrance to obtaining reliable data from natural waters by
voltammetric techniques. By covering the electrode with a
dialysis membrane, larger organic molecules are excluded from
the electrode surface
The membrane-covered electrode will initially be examined in
the presence of compounds (such as alkaline phosphatase,
Triton X, and gelatin) previously shown to adsorb at mercury
surfaces. The complexing capacities and conditional stability
constants of a well defined soil-derived fulvic acid, with Cu and
Cd, will then be determined using the membrane-covered
electrode. The results will be directly comparable to previously
published data generated by other measurement techniques.
43
FY-83
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Title:
Historical Records of Pollutants in Recent Aquatic Sediments
Principal Investigator:
Erik R Chnstensen
Institution.
University of
Wisconsin
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
(1 year} $57.382
EPA Project Number:
R810419-010
Summary:
The proposed project is concerned with records of particle-
associated substances (Pb, Cd, Zn, PCBs) in recent aquatic
sediments Mixing of the upper sediment layers by deposit
feeders tends to smear out the input function of sedimentmg
substances Similarly, compaction of sediments compresses the
input record in the lower layers The sediments thus act as a
low-pass filter, allowing only slow variations in the input
function to be reflected in the sedimentary record while rapid
variations are attenuated
The goal of the project is to develop mathematical models to
describe these effects The advection-diffusion equation will be
used to predict the sedimentary profile based on a known input
history and known sedimentation processes Mixing and
compaction will be determined by fitting the steady-state model
to existing profile data The inverse problem, to determine the
input history based on a known sedimentary record and known
sedimentation parameters, will be approached by deconvolution
using Laplace or Fourier Transforms
The results of the calculations will be compared with data from
the literature and with measurements on sediment cores
collected from Lake Michigan and other aquatic systems,
possibly the southern California coast or the Hudson River
Estuary Pb-210 and Th-228 will be used as sedimentation
tracers, and analysis for Pb, Cd, Zn and PCBs will be used to test
the model
FY-83
44
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Title:
Prediction of the Minimum Bed Expansion Requirement During Filter Backwashing
Operations
Principal In vestigator:
Jerry Y. C Huang
Institution:
University of
Wisconsin,
Milwaukee
Project Period:
2 years
Budget:
12 years) $137.150
EPA Project Number:
R810915-010
Summary:
The current knowledge of filter backwashmg, regarding the
factors affecting the solids dislodgement and the required bed
expansion for an effective bed cleaning, is seriously inadequate.
This research attempts to establish the relevance of the
properties of filtering floes on the solids dislodgement during
filter backwashmg The specific objectives are to (1) evaluate the
difference m solids dislodgement from solids floes of varying
properties, (2) correlate the solids dislodgement with the extent
of bed expansion; and (3) determine the minimum bed expansion
requirement for an effective bed cleaning for solids floes of
varying properties
This research plan consists of three tasks- (1) filtering
operation with various types of influent impurities and with
various types of coagulant/flocculant in various ranges of
dosage, (2) characterization of filtering floes in terms of their
strength and particle size distribution, and (3) backwashmg
operation with varying extents of bed expansion and
establishment of the correlations between the bed expansion
requirements and floe properties
The research will be conducted in three phases: (1) design and
construction of filtering and backwashmg systems and
concentric rotating cylinder apparatus; (2) filtering and
backwashmg of the filters applied with synthetic solids floes,
characterizing these solids floes, and establishing the correlation
between the property of the floes and the bed expansion
requirement; and (3) similar operations to those m (2), but with
natural waters, for verifying the results obtained with synthetic
solids floes and assessing the difference
45
FY-83
*USGPO: 1984 — 759-102/10695
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