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MERC – Membrane Filter Test Plan
6
sample water.
E
.
coli
density will be assayed by membrane filtration and incubation on modified
thermo tolerant
E
.
coli
agar (mTEC) (Becton Dickson, Sparks, MD). Enterococci densities will
be estimated using the IDEXX Enterolert kits (IDEXX Laboratories, Inc., Westbrook, ME).
Toxigenic
V
.
cholerae
densities will be determined by a DNA colony blot hybridization method
that detects
ctxA
gene. Total bacterial cells will be fixed after filtering 100 mL of sample water
through a 0.22 µm nucleopore polycarbonate membrane, with formalin to preserve cells. Viable
V
.
cholerae
O1 cells will be enumerated using a direct-fluorescent antibody kit (DFA) (New
Horizons Diagnostics).
Sample and Data Management:
We will use the established SERC ballast water sample labeling and databases format and
structure for this evaluation. Sample-labels and record keeping check-lists will be generated
using SERC protocols, and data will be stored both in existing SERC databases (servers) and in a
MERC repository for analytical data.
Data Analysis
Although multiple samples and measures from each tank will be taken, to avoid pseudo-
replication, the unit of replication for statistical analyses is each trial (n = 3+). We assume that
all measures for a single trial provide one estimate of filter system efficacy. Thus, efficacy for
any parameter is estimated as changes found before and after filtration (percent reduction). This
approach controls for variation due to temporal changes in environmental conditions.
4. Evaluation Schedule
(dates listed are based on current plan and may vary)
•
MERC Test Plan for Filter System Evaluations completed and Evaluation Agreement
signed by TBD.
•
Filter System(s) will be delivered to the Cape Washington in Baltimore by TBD.
•
Filter Systems will be installed and operational by TBD.
•
First evaluations of the Filter Systems initiated TBD.
•
MERC will complete sample analysis and compile data from the evaluation by TBD.
•
MERC will distribute a draft report on the performance of individual Filter System for
review by the MERC Advisory Board and individual manufactures by t1t1 TBD.
•
MERC will submit a final report to MPA, MARAD, NOAA and manufacturer by TBD
5. Data Recording, Processing, and Storage
This section describes methods employed during data recording, processing, and storage
to minimize errors and assure high quality analyses.
Documentation and Records:
A variety of data will be acquired and recorded electronically and manually by MERC
partners (CBL/UMCES, SERC, and UM) during this evaluation. Operational information and
results will generally be documented in field/laboratory record books and on the data