@article { author = {Val del Río, A. and Figueroa, M. and Mosquera-Corral, A. and Campos, J.L. and Méndez, R.}, title = {Stability of Aerobic Granular Biomass Treating the Effluent from A Seafood Industry}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {265-276}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.606}, abstract = {The aerobic granular systems represent a good alternative to substitute the conventional activatedsludge process in the treatment of industrial effluents due to the lower surface requirements. In this work the effluent from a seafood industry, characterized by a high variability and the presence of residual amounts of coagulant and flocculant reagents, was used to study the development of aerobic granular biomass and its stability. In a first stage with OLRs between 2 and 5 kg CODS/m3.d the development of aerobic granular biomass was promoted with good physical properties: SVI of 35 mL/g TSS, density of 60 g VSS/Lgranule and average diameter of 2.8 mm. In a second stage the continuous change in the OLR applied from 3 to 13 kg CODS/ m3.d, to simulate the real conditions of the industry, showed that the removal of organic matter was not affected (90%) but the aerobic granules disintegrated. The maximum OLR treated in the system without granules disintegration was around 4.4 kg CODS/m3.d. The nitrogen removal was 30% (for biomass assimilation) and the maximum ammonia removal was around 65% and depending on the solids retention time, the free ammonia concentration and the average granule diameter.}, keywords = {Aerobic granule,Bioreactor,Industrial wastewater,Nitrogen,organic matter}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_606.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_606_346411cac75ba6da210cb94b364cdba4.pdf} } @article { author = {Araizaga, A.E. and Mancilla, Y. and Mendoza, A.}, title = {Volatile Organic Compound Emissions from Light-Duty Vehicles in Monterrey, Mexico: a Tunnel Study}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {277-292}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.607}, abstract = {A two-week tunnel study was conducted in Monterrey, Mexico during June 2009 to characterizevolatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from the local vehicle fleet and estimate the correspondingemission factors (EFs). The Loma Larga Tunnel (LLT), a 532 meter-long structure that is mainly used by lightduty gasoline-powered vehicles was used as the experimental set-up. Ambient air samples (2-hour averages) were taken inside the LLT using 6 L SUMMA®-polished canisters. Samples collected in the canisters were analyzed for Total Non-Methane Hydrocarbons (TNMHC) and 53 individual VOCs using high-resolution GC-MS. Identified individual VOCs accounted for ~80% of the TNMHCs. The most abundant VOCs, on a molar basis, were ethene (13.8%), acetylene (9.0%), isopentane (7.1%), toluene (5.6%), and n-butane (5.5%). High correlations were obtained for known markers of vehicular emissions. Particularly, for the ethene/ acetylene ratio values between 1.1 and 2.4 were obtained (R2 = 0.95), indicating the presence of vehicles with a working catalytic converter. Estimated EFs were compared to values reported in similar studies elsewhere, including one in Mexico City. Results indicate that the vehicles in the LLT tend to emit lower molecular weight VOCs (in the C2 to C6 range). Reactivity of the emissions, expressed propylene-equivalent concentrations, was estimated resulting in an important contribution of the olefins (including isoprene) to the ozone-forming potential of the emitted mixtures.}, keywords = {Emission factor,Mobile Sources,air pollution,Air toxics,Ozone precursors}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_607.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_607_881135d991f75f3b83a621c45b57a93a.pdf} } @article { author = {Senturk, E. and Ýnce, M. and Onkal Engin, G.}, title = {Assesment of Kinetic Parameters for Thermophilic Anaerobic Contact Reactor Treating Food-Processing Wastewater}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {293-302}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.608}, abstract = {A thermophilic anaerobic contact reactor for the treatment of potato-processing wastewaterswas designed as a continuous-flow, completely-mixed homogeneous system. The reactor was operated at ten different organic loading rates ranging from 0.84 g COD/L·d to 7.00 g COD/L·d for a duration of approximately 250 days. The fundamental way to maintain optimum operating conditions of anaerobic digestion systems is to have a well acquaintance with the dynamic behaviours of the process. For this purpose, different types of kinetic models were used in this study, namely the substrate balance, the maximum / specific substrate utilization rate and the methane production rate models. The experimental data obtained indicated that the models used were all applicable for the description of bio-kinetic behaviour of the thermophilic anaerobic contact reactor.}, keywords = {Thermophilic,Anaerobic,Kinetic evaluation,Organic loading rate,Potato-processing wastewaters}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_608.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_608_3a89ab587e4f0653bffcea282a9a2452.pdf} } @article { author = {Joda, F. and Polley, G.T. and Tahouni, N. and Panjeshahi, M.H.}, title = {Improving MSHE Design Procedure Using Genetic Algorithm and Reduced Number of Sections}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {303-318}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.609}, abstract = {Pinch Technology is one of the best methods for designing a multi stream heat exchanger(MSHE) through a network; current pinch-based methods, however, lead to a larger and more complicateddesign problems. The major drawback of the current methods is they result in designs having more individual MSHE sections than essential, correspond to the enthalpy intervals on temperature vs. enthalpy diagrams or composite curves. In this paper, a new conceptual procedure for optimizing the entrance and exit points of each stream of a MSHE is proposed minimizing the number of sections required for a given duty. Moreover, Genetic algorithm (GA) is used to find the suitable fin type for making the heat exchanger dimensions consistent with manufacturing needs and the fully utilization of allowable pressure drops. Having applied the new design procedure in two industrial case studies, the results showed 11% and 7% cost reductions compared to the current method, respectively.}, keywords = {Multi-stream heat exchanger,Optimization,Total annual cost,Composite curves}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_609.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_609_f9b49722ab3c656c45f28e68f9c3a661.pdf} } @article { author = {Feizizadeh, B. and Blaschke, T. and Nazmfar, H. and Rezaei Moghaddam, M.H.}, title = {Landslide Susceptibility Mapping for the Urmia Lake basin, Iran: A multi- Criteria Evaluation Approach using GIS}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {319-336}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.610}, abstract = {Although typically small in terms of their spatial footprint, landslide hazards are relativelyfrequent in Northern Iran. We assess landslide susceptibility for the nearly 20.000 km2 large study area of the Urmia lake basin which is dominated by agricultural land use but includes the major settlements areas of the East Azerbaijan province, Iran. Landslide factors are established in form of GIS dataset layers includingtopography, geology, climatology and land use. After pre-processing all data layers are standardized based on a fuzzy logic model. An Analytical Hierarchical Process (AHP) delivers the weights for the GIS-analysis.Datasets are combined by GIS spatial analysis techniques and a landslide susceptibility map of the study area is created. An existing inventory of known landslides within the case study area was compared with theresulting susceptibility map. We found that high susceptible zones cover about 4.47% (944 km2) of the totalarea whereby geological outcrops of sedimentary and volcanic formations such as volcanic ash contribute most to the landslide susceptibility. Due to the dynamic growth of settlements especially in the vicinity of the city of Tabriz landslide hazards may cause even more damage in the future.The resulting information of thisresearch is useful for a) a better understanding of existing landslides and their origins in North-Western Iran, b) supporting emergency decisions and c) prioritization of efforts for the reduction and mitigation of future landslide hazards.}, keywords = {Landslide,Susceptibility mapping,GIS- spatial analysis,MCDA,Urmia lake basin,Iran}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_610.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_610_132090fb41f337a8d74341fddf677acb.pdf} } @article { author = {Mondéjar-Jiménez, J.A. and Gázquez-Abad, J.C. and Gómez-Borja, M.A.}, title = {The Recreational use Value in Spanish Protected Natural Landscapes: Proposal for a Nature Park “Serranía de Cuenca”}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {337-342}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.611}, abstract = {Environmental protection is not at odds with the proper use of all the offered possibilities.Along these lines, the touristic products available to the consumer has increased exponentially over the lastfew years which has made it possible to convert territorial and patrimonial resources into significant elementsof recreational use put into value at service of the consumer. Surveys on the recreational usage value inprotected national parks are still incipient in Spain and so it is highly recommendable analyse what their future possibilities are and what applications are feasibly achievable. If the various options are taken into account for evaluating the natural resources currently available to tourists, this paper examines a proposal for studying the values of the recreational use of the “Serranía de Cuenca” national park, which occupies more than fifty thousand hectares in the Province of Castilla-La Mancha. Taking into consideration that large number of varied tourist segments that it is possible to encounter in a market, protected natural landscapes have become truly differentiating elements in a quality touristic offer that strictly meets the most demanding sustainabilitycriteria.}, keywords = {environment,Recreational use,Protected natural landscape}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_611.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_611_924de43220c61ba15faca4fe1690b757.pdf} } @article { author = {Strohschön, R. and Wiethoff, K. and Baier, K. and Lu, L. and Bercht, A.L. and Wehrhahn, R. and Azzam, R.}, title = {Land use and Water Quality in Guangzhou, China: A survey of ecological and Social Vulnerability in Four Urban Units of the Rapidly Developing Megacity}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {343-358}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.612}, abstract = {This interdisciplinary paper aims at Guangzhou’s development and its effects on surface andgroundwater quality taking the new city axis as an example. Qualitative morphological analyses, field mappings, interviews and water sampling of standard in-situ and various hydrochemical parameters were conducted between 2007 and 2009 in order to examine the following research questions: Which types of land use can be found within the new city axis? Are there infrastructure differences of water supply and wastewater disposal? How does land use affect the quality of surface and groundwater? How do inhabitants perceive and appraise settlement structures, infrastructures and environmental quality and how do they cope with their individual situation? Within four small-scale research areas, so-called urban units, different stages and types of development and factors influencing the water resources as well as spatial variations of water quality could be identified. Deficits in city planning, water supply and sanitation lead, for example, to informal building expansion and groundwater use as well as to high concentrations of coliform bacteria in urban rivers. A wide range of ecological and social vulnerabilities became obvious.}, keywords = {Water quality,Land use,City pattern,ecological,Social,Vulnerability,Guangzhou,China}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_612.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_612_74527944966e7d606d074d50ff34d40a.pdf} } @article { author = {Buzzigoli, L. and Viviani, A.}, title = {Energy Intensity and Energy Demand: A Case Study for the Italian Industrial Sector}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {359-366}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.613}, abstract = {The paper presents an analysis of both energy intensity and energy demand for the Italianindustrial sector. The aim of the paper is twofold: making a decomposition of energy intensity at the aggregate level and modeling energy demand at the firm level. The decomposition of energy intensity shows different patterns for the different sub-sectors in the period of interest. In the micro approach, panel data are used to investigate whether firms’ energy demand varies according to their dimension, to production factors’ price dynamic and to the sub-sector energy intensity. This kind of application at firm level represents a novelty in the empirical literature on energy in Italy.}, keywords = {Energy,Intensity,Decomposition,Panel data,Demand,Models}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_613.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_613_866473966d3b8a942f29fcca67f886b7.pdf} } @article { author = {Shafie-Pour, M. and Tavakoli, A.}, title = {On-Road Vehicle Emissions Forecast Using IVE Simulation Model}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {367-376}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.614}, abstract = {During the recent decades, rapid urbanization growth has led to even faster growth of motorvehicles and especially in large cities. Hence, evaluation of the actual level of traffic emissions has gained more interest. This paper, for the first time, presents a bottom-up approach for evaluation of vehicular emissions in Tehran- the capital of Iran- using the International Vehicle Emission (IVE) model. The IVE model uses local vehicle technology levels and its distributions, power based driving factors, vehicle soak distributions and meteorological parameters to tailor the model for specific evaluation of emissions. The results of this study demonstrate that carbon monoxide (CO) emission with 244.45 ton/hr during peak traffic hour is the most abundant criteria pollutant. About 25% of this quantity is emitted during start-up periods. Other pollutants such as NOX, VOCs, PM, VOCevap and SOX are ranked after CO accordingly. Also, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of 1744.22 ton/hr during the study period indicate that light vehicles are responsible for more than 82% of this amount. Based on IVE’s evaluation, about 25% of the total vehicle emissions in Tehran come from districts 2, 4 and 6 respectively. It has further been inferred that the development of public transportation systems and proper land-use and urban spatial planning for various centers in these districts are essential.}, keywords = {air pollution,Vehicular Emission Forecasting,IVE model,Tehran}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_614.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_614_e2645a42415e2f755a7a90a6632aa4da.pdf} } @article { author = {Tajziehchi, S. and Monavari, S.M. and Karbassi, A.R. and Shariat, S.M. and Khorasani, N.}, title = {Quantification of Social Impacts of Large Hydropower Dams- a case study of Alborz Dam in Mazandaran Province, Northern Iran}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {377-382}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.615}, abstract = {Despite the numerous advantages of large dams, there is still a deep suspicion about the real,long-term benefits and costs of their construction. Land use change on a vast scale, displacement of a largepopulation of indigenous people, loss of biodiversity and production of greenhouse gas emissions, as well as environmental, socioeconomic and cultural consequences resulting therefrom, indicate clearly the need toreconsider the growing trend of dam construction in the world. The present study was conducted to calculatethe real cost of generating electricity imposed on communities and environment in order to clarify the adverse socioeconomic impacts of large dams that are often ignored due to short-term, economic benefits. Accordingly, Alborz Dam, a large dam in northern Iran, was selected as a case study to run cost-benefit analysis by SIMPACTS Software. The obtained results revealed that the total external cost of electricity generation by the hydropower dam is about 0.16 US$/kWh. In other words, the annual cost of the electricity generation by Alborz Hydropower Plant is US$ 4.8 million/year. The highest share (163 US$/MWh) belongs to the loss of agricultural production while the lowest cost (0.10 US$/MWh) is associated with the loss of life. According to the estimated values, a total amount of 1074 tons of greenhouse gas emissions is expected to be released into the air by the hydropower dam operation. It should be stated that SIMPACTS Software only considers the adverse effects of hydropower dams and there is a need to improve the capability of the software by adding the positive impacts in to the overall computations, as well.}, keywords = {Large dam,Externalities,Environmental,Social,Resettlement,Land,agriculture}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_615.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_615_b39788e3c08ab6a641dd104061a803a1.pdf} } @article { author = {Cinar, I. and Sensogut, C.}, title = {Evaluation of Noise Measurements Performed in Mining Sites for Environmental Aspects}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {383-386}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.616}, abstract = {In this study, results of noise level measurements performed in 4 different mining sites aregiven. Noise level measurements performed in opencast mining site of Konya Ilgin Lignite Corporation (ILC), in Konya Eyak Mining quarry site and in Aydin Cine Feldspar ore dressing facility have been evaluatedtogether with worker surveys. The noise level measurements performed in Manisa Soma Uyar Mining coalpreparation facility have been evaluated in terms of machine-work performance. Thence, it has been pointedout that the increase in noise was due to machine faults. When the measurement results were considered, it is mandatory for the workers to use protective equipment. Workers working under high noise level would beaffected physically, physiologically and psychologically. To prevent these harms, they should be encouragedto use earmuffs and plugs.}, keywords = {Noise propagation,Equivalent noise level,Occupational health,Machine work performance}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_616.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_616_a7e43c6ed488624957059e7839a7659c.pdf} } @article { author = {García-Flores, E. and Wakida, F.T. and Espinoza-Gomez, J.H.}, title = {Sources of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Urban Storm Water runoff in Tijuana, Mexico}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {387-394}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.617}, abstract = {Eight sites were sampled during seven rain events to quantify and identify the sources ofpolycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in urban runoff in the city of Tijuana, Mexico. The total Σ16 PAHsconcentration rangedfrom 1113 to 4866 μg/Lin the sampled sites and thetotal suspended solid concentrations ranged from 7725 to 4413 μg/L. The high concentrations of total suspended solids were probably the result of the erosion of bare soil areas in the basin area of the sampling sites. The PAH concentration in urban runoff from industrial sites was not as high as expected in comparison to residential sites. The potential sources of PAH were identified using the diagnostic ratios between PAHs and PCA analysis. Vehicular exhaust emissions (diesel and gasoline) and used crankcase oil were the main contributors to PAHs in urban storm water runoff. Charcoal combustion, diesel oil andlubricant oil were also identified as contributors to PAHs.}, keywords = {PAH,Diagnostic ratios,PCA,Pollution,Suspended solids}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_617.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_617_3d15e2d1acf1f9acb8b7d7cd6d09ab73.pdf} } @article { author = {Andjelkovic, I. and Manojlovic, D. and Skrivanj, S. and Pavlovic, B.M. and Amaizah, N.R. and Roglic, G.}, title = {As(III) and As(V) Sorption on MnO2 Synthesized by Mechano-chemical Reaction from Aqueous phase}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {395-402}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.618}, abstract = {Nanoparticles of manganese-dioxide synthesized by mechano-chemical reaction were used forAs(III) and As(V) sorption from water environment. The influence of a milling time of manganese-dioxide on sorption was examined with batch procedure. Sorption as a function of contact time was investigated. Kinetic of sorption, for both As(III) and As(V), was fast. The equilibrium condition for milled sorbents was achieved after one hour of mixing. Experimental data were fitted to Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption models. Both models represent experimental data well with slightly better regression coefficient for Freundlich isotherm model. With the increase of the milling time manganese-dioxide adsorption capacity for As(III) and As(V) increased. The decrease of average particle size with milling could be responsible for increase of sorption capacity. The influence of pH on sorption was also investigated. The sorption of both, As(III) and As(V), in investigated pH range (6.0-9.0) was not significantly disturbed and showed similar behaviour, what could indirectly imply oxidation of As(III) to As(V) before sorption.}, keywords = {Arsenite,arsenate,Removal,mechano-chemical reaction,drinking water}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_618.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_618_bfd7a88f6918973d34edd5f396e98f49.pdf} } @article { author = {Etale, A. and Drake, D.C.}, title = {Industrial Pollution and Food Safety in Kigali, Rwanda}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {403-406}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.619}, abstract = {We determined the concentrations of lead and cadmium in edible parts of Colocasiaesculenta,Amaranthusspp. and Ipomoea batata cultivated on farms in industrially polluted sections of Nyabugogomarsh (Kigali, Rwanda) and quantified metal intake by consumers of these crops. We report that metalconcentrations in crops were within EU limits. The highest metal concentrations were found in Amaranthusspp. leaves (lead = 0.31 mg/kg and cadmium = 0.03 mg/kg) and the lowestin I. batata (lead = 0.02 mg/kg and cadmium = 0.01 mg/kg). Conversely, metal intake through these crops by adults in a surveyed community exceeded thresholds prescribed by the World Health Organization (WHO). Based on crop consumption quantities, dietary lead intake by adults exceeded the recommended maximum by as much as seven and four orders of magnitude through Amaranthusspp and C. esculenta,respectively. Cadmium intake exceeded the WHO recommended maximum by two (Amaranthusspp and C. esculenta)and three (I. batata) orders of magnitude.}, keywords = {Health risk,Heavy metals,Colocasiaesculenta,Amaranthus spp,Ipomoea batata,Wetlands}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_619.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_619_8fd94c2f2fb20da838d65c16027b94b4.pdf} } @article { author = {Mokhtari, M.H. and Ahmad, B. and Hoveidi, H. and Busu, I.}, title = {Sensitivity Analysis of METRIC–Based Evapotranspiration Algorithm}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {407-422}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.620}, abstract = {METRIC (Mapping Evapotranspiration at High Resolution with Internalized Calibration) is known as an appropriate surface energy balance model for the estimation of the spatial distribution of evapotranspiration (ET) in semi-arid regions. Based on lysimeter measurements, METRIC has shown ET estimates of 10% on a sub-field scale on a daily basis. There is a need to identify how the model is sensitive to the input parameters. Therefore, the most influential parameters in the algorithm can be identified and themodel can be further improved. Sensitivity analysis at three levels of vegetation cover shows that METRIC ishighly sensitive to dT, surface temperature, net radiation, sensible heat flux, surface albedo, soil heat flux, and air temperature. It is also moderately sensitive to friction velocity, aerodynamic resistance to heat transfer, surface emissivity and less sensitive to leaf area index, soil adjusted vegetation index, wind speed(except wind speed at low level of vegetation cover)‘, and roughness length for momentum (except Zom<0.1). A two-factor analysis of the algorithm’s primary inputs showed that the pair albedo-surface temperature is the most and the normalized vegetation index-soil adjusted vegetation index or normalized vegetation index-leaf area index is the least effective pair in this model. In order to improve the accuracy of METRIC, this study suggests upgrading the equations for the above-mentioned effective variables.}, keywords = {Evapotranspiration,Metric,pistachio,Semi-Arid,Sensitivity analysis}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_620.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_620_80b3a85b158152ec7f31d7f65e19c88c.pdf} } @article { author = {Kowkabi, L. and Rahman setayesh, A.R. and Badri, A. and Rajaee, A.}, title = {The Application of Fuzzy Multi-attribute Group Decision Making to Prioritize the Landscapes with high Ecological value: Khoshk River in Shiraz}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {423-434}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.621}, abstract = {The expansion of major cities regardless of the scientific planning principles has led to theemergence of negative urban development impacts in Iran such as the degradation of natural resources andvarious forms of pollution. Undoubtedly, urban rivers can enhance the ecological value of the earth to anoptimal extent. However, to benefit from these potentials, appropriate planning looks inevitable. Due to thelack of data and information, analyzing the quality of these resources requires the application of new methods which consider the uncertainties and complexities of the issue in the decision making. This research presents an application of fuzzy TOPSIS multi attribute group decision making to identify factors causing land degradation, distinguish the most optimal areas based on their ecological values and provide suggestions on landscape improvement. To this end, the development of Shiraz city along the Khoshk River corridor was investigated using the 1:25000 maps and satellite images (ICONOS). With respect to the river attributes and adjacent lands, the riverside was divided into four heterogeneous zones. Then, to distinguish the most optimal zone based on the ecological values, the fuzzy decision making method was applied. To this end, the expansion of human activities and biophysical criteria were defined, separately. A number of experts determined the importance of each indicator qualitatively. Finally, using the group decision making theory and fuzzy TOPSIS technique, the researchers identified the most suitable zone based on the “biophysical criteria” and “human activity criteria” separately as well as the whole criteria, and provided suggestions on the landscape improvement.}, keywords = {Landscape Ecology,decision making,Fuzzy method,TOPSIS,Criteria,Riverside}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_621.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_621_f3600685f5c2115ea6986dce17fddb51.pdf} } @article { author = {Couto, R.S.P. and Guarino, A.W.S. and Branco, Ch.W.C. and Palermo, E.F.A. and Azero, E.G.}, title = {Application of Clay Minerals and Polymeric Resins to Remove Dissolved Microcystin-LR from Water}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {435-442}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.622}, abstract = {This study aimed to develop techniques for purification of cyanotoxins dissolved in water -particularly those produced by Microcystis aeruginosa species - using natural clay, chemically modifiednatural clay, commercial clay and ion exchange and adsorbent resins. Except for natural clay, chemical pretreatment was required to increase the adsorption capacity of the treatment materials. All the clays wereexposed to microcystin solutions of 0.5x10-3, 1.0x10-3 and 10.0x10-3 ?g/mL in batch purification processes. The same solutions were used in purification processes with polymeric resins packed in columns. The microcystin- LR samples were quantified using ELISA immunoassay and removal capabilities and saturation of the treatment materials were evaluated. The modified clays showed a microcystin-LR removal efficiency rate between 82.90% and 99.86%, while the resins a rate between 87.6% and 99.74%. This study shows that the materials have technologically and economically promising properties for the removal of microcystins from water.}, keywords = {Toxin removal,Microcystin,Natural clay,Commercial clay,Commercial resins,purification}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_622.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_622_a911622243ce698a4bd178394c071032.pdf} } @article { author = {Khamkure, S. and Treesatayapun, C. and Cervantes, E.P. and Melo, P.G. and Gonzalez, A.Z.}, title = {Prediction of Fecal Coliform Removal on Intermittent Media Infiltration by Varying Soil Content Based on FREN}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {443-454}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.623}, abstract = {Current global water shortage and water pollution problem are some of the crucial issues in theworld, especially in the arid zones. The wastewater reuse was investigated the efficiency of fecal coliform(FC) removal using the intermittent media infiltration (IMI) with varying soil content and natural porousmedia (sand, zeolite, vermicompost and charcoal), and its prediction was introduced by applying fuzzy rulesemulated network (FREN). The physicochemical properties of the porous media were determined and themechanisms of FC removal were discussed as the effect of fine particle size and increasing of ion charges. The compositions of soil and porous media at a ratio of 75/25, respectively, gave the best performance of FC reduction. The network architecture was constructed by the knowledge regarding to the relation between soil content (25, 50 and 75) and FC removal, and was introduced IF-THEN rules for FREN construction as theirpredicted curves at 20 iterations. The learning rate was selected as 5 following the main theorem and theconvergence of FREN prediction could be guaranteed. The results showed that the prediction methodologygave a good performance to forecast FC removal with the range of soil content (20-80%) and several compositions of porous media in IMI system.}, keywords = {Bacterial removal,fuzzy logic,infiltration,Porous media,Prediction}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_623.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_623_80ccc13d7cb050a82a4b440a8f8cd1d2.pdf} } @article { author = {Al-Malack, M.H. and Bukhari, A.A. and Al-Amoudi, O.S. and Al-Muhanna, H.H. and Zaidi, T.H.}, title = {Characteristics of Fly ash Produced at Power and Water Desalination Plants Firing Fuel Oil}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {455-466}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.624}, abstract = {Plants firing fuel oil produce huge quantities of fly ash as solid waste, which needs to becharacterized prior to its proper management. It is worth mentioning that the published literature lackcomprehensive information on the characteristics of such fly ash. Characteristics of fuel oil fly ash producedat selected power (PP) and water desalination (DP) plants were determined. The results showed that grainsize of the DP fly ash (66.87 μm) is slightly larger than that of PP fly ash (63.09 μm). The PP fly ash is mostly carbon while DP has a larger percent of metal oxide ashes. Ash content in PP and DP fly ash were 4.8 and 43.3 percent, respectively. Moreover, metal concentrations are higher in DP fly ash than that in PP fly ash. As an example, average vanadium concentrations were 15619 and 40879 mg/kg in PP and DP fly ash samples, respectively. Generally, fly ash samples produced at the two plants are different in their physical and chemical characteristics, which could be attributed to the different fuels and additives being used at the two plants.}, keywords = {Fly ash,Fuel Oil,characteristics,Metals}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_624.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_624_5ba5dd05b976af2d75efa15a416f057b.pdf} } @article { author = {Abduli, M.A. and Amiri, L. and Madadian, E. and Gitipour, S. and Sedighian, S.}, title = {Efficiency of Vermicompost on Quantitative and Qualitative Growth of Tomato Plants}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {467-472}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.625}, abstract = {In this research, the effect of using vermicompost on growth rate, fertility and characteristics oftomatoes has been studied. Four vermicompost: soil mixture were supplied with ratios of 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, and 1:4 and also four different beds were provided. Total of 24 small globe tomato plants were tested and in each bed combination, six tomato plants were embedded. Rate of growth and yielding of plants grown in each of four beds were investigated in two periods of 40 days and 90 days after planting. The results showed a significant rise in growth of tomato plants by increasing ratio of vermicompost combined with soil. Obviously, the plant was mostly appeared in the main stem of the plant and there was no significant enhancement in the number of leaves. The main stem diameter, height, the number of leaves per plant, and yielding of tomato plants obtained the highest rate in four tested beds after 40 days in vermicompost to soil ratios of 1:3, 1:1, 1:3, and 1:2, respectively. In aforementioned observations some changes were made after 90 days of testing and maximum yielding and height of tomato plants were obtained in 1:1 ratio. Vitamin C and total sugar content in tomatoes increase with using vermicompost. The maximum amount of vitamin C and total sugar, soluble solids, insoluble solids and total nitrites of fresh tomato were observed in ratios of 4:1, 4:1, 3:1, 2:1 and 3:1, correspondingly.}, keywords = {vermicompost,Soil ratio,Yielding,Tomato plant,plant growth,Organic Agriculture}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_625.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_625_5199d718030b39ee8631d72fdd9c8fc8.pdf} } @article { author = {Mossalanejad, A.}, title = {Environmental Security and Global Violence}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {473-478}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.626}, abstract = {For many years, the prevailing notion of security has been associated with the ‘realist’ militaryside of conflict management, understood as ‘national security’. For us the term does not just mean theinterplay of deterring, compelling, defensive and offensive force in the pursuit of a self-defined nationalinterest. Above all, and at a fundamental level it includes the safety and quality of life of all human beings and their ecosystems. Conceptually, we could define such security as the reciprocal value of insecurity. It refers to all those trends and factors - environmental, economic, social, political and cultural - that increase the risk, exposure and vulnerability for a given population. In earlier works it is contended that within highly complex and interconnected systems, the security of the whole, including that of its seemingly most protected components, paradoxically depends upon the system’s weakest links. There is the urgency for exploring broader and longer-term mechanisms to devise and strengthen global governance so that world stability, security, social justice, sustainability and well-being for all are guaranteed.}, keywords = {Environmental change,Environmental security,Environmental conflict,climate change,securitization,Global violence}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_626.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_626_fed8e1807a8e43ba0671f933b981ca74.pdf} } @article { author = {Khan, M.A. and Faheem, S.M.}, title = {Monitoring Bacterial Diversity in a full-scale Municipal Wastewater Treatment plant in Dubai by Fluorescence in situ hybridization Technique}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {479-484}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.627}, abstract = {In this study, the bacterial diversity in the activated sludge system of a full-scale municipalwastewater treatment plant in Dubai was monitored over a period of one year using ribosomal RNA (rRNA)targeted oligonucleotide probes for a defined phylogenetic group of bacteria by the Fluorescence in situhybridization (FISH) technique. The largest fraction of the bacterial community in the sludge samples belonged to the gamma-subgroup of proteobacteria (25%) followed by gram positive bacteria of high G+C content(16%), gram positive bacteria with low G+C content (9 %), beta-proteobacteria (8%) and alpha-proteobacteria(5 %) with respect to the population percentages stained by DAPI (4,6-diamino-2-phenylindole).A specific nocardioform actinomycete, simultaneously targeted by both HGC69a and MNP1 probes, was predominantly found throughout the study period in all activated sludge mixed liquor samples. The nocardioform actinomycetes group members were detected in both branched and single cell morphotypes. Most of the previously published genus and species specific probes failed to hybridize to the sludge samples. In conclusion, the overall bacterial community populations detected by the sub-group specific 16S rRNA targeted oligonucleotide probes in FISH technique remained almost constant throughout the period of study irrespective of treatment plant conditions.}, keywords = {Fluorescence in situ hybridization,bacterial community,Nocardioform actinomycetes,Activated sludge,Oligonucleotide probes}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_627.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_627_b058ab1030d4cd4a3366b358d5e799f6.pdf} } @article { author = {Moussaceb, K. and Belebchouche, Ch. and Ait-Mokhtar, A. and Merabet, D.}, title = {Evaluation of the Impact of Ni, Cr and Pb Contained in Effluents of an Industrial unit by the Process of Stabilization/solidification using Hydraulic Binders}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {485-494}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.628}, abstract = {Stabilization/ solidification (S/S) of hazardous waste by hydraulic binders is one of the mostpromising ways to reduce the polluting nature of ultimate waste. This study conducted at the laboratory scale, to study of the influence of various parameters namely: the ratio L/S, the contact time solid/liquid, surface and medium of exposure...etc., on the environmental impact of ultimate waste synthesized and real-discharges of an industrial unit, stabilized/ solidified by hydraulic binders. The ANC test, pore water and leaching test on monoliths were carried on samples of the same material to study the influence of pH, L/S ratio and other parameters on the chemical speciation of the species (Pb2+, Cr+3 and Ni+2) in granular materials. Monitoring of the changes in concentrations (TLM test), flows leached and cumulative concentrations of chemical species are used as a criterion for comparison. The use of X-ray diffraction (XRD) is effective for the determination of crystalline phases. The results of XRD may indicate the mechanisms and reactions of immobilization occurring in the process of S/S. The experimental results obtained for the scenario shown indicate that the release of chromium is purely diffusive in against the leaching of lead and nickel is combined by diffusion and chemicalreaction.}, keywords = {Leaching,Characterization,solubility,Ultimate waste (Pb2+,Cr+3and Ni+2),Portland cement}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_628.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_628_d9968cca67d259233545a7c3715f8d8d.pdf} } @article { author = {Mondéjar-Jiménez, J. and Vargas-Vargas, M. and Segarra-Oña, M. and Peiró-Signes, A.}, title = {Categorizing Variables Affecting the Proactive Environmental Orientation of Firms}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {495-500}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.629}, abstract = {Despite several authors having studied the strategic approach to environmental orientation and,considering that environmental proactivity is emerging in business strategy, it still remains unclear which realactions influence a firm’s environmental orientation. An empirical analysis of a sample of 126 Spanish companies shows that firms’ actions are explained as training, information and divulgation actions; firms’ goals are understood as actions to improve business competitiveness, and agents’ implications and firms’ management implications explain the environmental proactivity of firms, while obstacles with negative effects are also identified. This paper undertakes a questionnaire-based study of environmental proactivity to explain the relations among variables through a Structural Equation Modeling (EQS) model.}, keywords = {Environmental proactivity,Industrial firms,EQS model}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_629.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_629_ca70ffe059d3517c6debfe13d8e08589.pdf} } @article { author = {López-Pérez, P.A. and Neria-González, M.I. and Flores-Cotera, L.B. and Aguilar-López, R.}, title = {A mathematical Model for Cadmium Removal using A sulfate Reducing Bacterium: Desulfovibrio alaskensis 6SR}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {501-512}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.630}, abstract = {In this work, an unstructured-type mathematical model was developed to simulatecadmium (Cd2+) removal by Desulfovibrio alaskensis 6SR, which is a recently described sulfatereducing bacterium, whose capacity for removing heavy metals are being studied. Three processesare considered in the model: 1) the sulfate reduction process, 2) the consumption of lactate ascarbon source, and 3) the metal removal. The model was tested with different initial Cd2+ concentrations(50, 100, 170, and 190 mg/L), and it accurately predicted the behavior of experimental data withsatisfactory correlation coefficients (R2>0.97). In addition, the model showed that the H2S productionrate and initial concentration of Cd2+ are key operating variables in a bioreactor. Desulfovibrioalaskensis 6SR was able to remove more than 99.9% of cadmium in a batch process, where the initialconcentration was 170 mg/L. The model, applied to a continuous process, predicted a maximum Cd2+removal of 99.1% with the same initial concentration. Also, the model predicted the inhibitory effectof initial Cd2+ concentrations above 190 mg/L. The mathematical model developed can be used foroptimization and control purposes.}, keywords = {Desulfovibrio alaskensis,dynamic,Modeling,Cadmium removal,Kinetic,Anaerobic}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_630.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_630_0b7eb5ee3bc366f492eeda38968047a6.pdf} } @article { author = {Costa, R.H.R. and Wolff, D.B. and Souto, V.S.}, title = {Performance and Kinectics Aspects of Nitrogen Removal in a Biofilm Sequencing Batch Reactor}, journal = {International Journal of Environmental Research}, volume = {7}, number = {2}, pages = {513-522}, year = {2013}, publisher = {University of Tehran/Springer}, issn = {1735-6865}, eissn = {2008-2304}, doi = {10.22059/ijer.2013.631}, abstract = {A biofilm sequencing batch reactor with a volume of 1.42 m3, nylon nets providing a 4,140 m2/m3 support area for biofilms and an automated operation with 8 hour cycles was studied. The duration of the experiment was 135 days. Removal efficiencies e≥ 80% were obtained for carbonaceous matter, producing an effluent with 31±26.8 mg/L of filtered COD, 7±3.6 mg/L of BOD5 and 12±3.2 mg/L of TOC. The average removal efficiency of ammonium was 77 ± 16.6%, with a mean concentration in the effluent of 14 ± 10.2 mg NH4-N/L. The denitrification efficiency was 80±14.7%. The effluent characteristics met the requirements of Brazilian environmental standard for discharge to receiving water bodies. A kinetic study of nitrification and denitrification showed that during the aerobic phase the specific rate of ammonium consumption was 0.057 g NH4-N/g VSS.d and the production of NOx-N was 0.074 g NOx-N/g VSS.d, while the specific rate of NOx-N consumption was 0.05 g NOx-N/g VSS.d during the anoxic phase. The suspended and fixed biomass was composed of 50% ammonium-oxidizing bacteria (AOB).}, keywords = {Biological nitrogen removal,hybrid reactor,Wastewater treatment,Nitrification,Denitrification,kinetics parameters}, url = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_631.html}, eprint = {https://ijer.ut.ac.ir/article_631_a532d05f5f8bbb06675fb82b1122cfcb.pdf} }