bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Information Resources and Library Services by Students of the University of Horticultural Sciences, Karnataka State, India
Authors: Parvathamma N. , Shinde Mukesh M.
Published: December 2015

The University of Horticultural Sciences was established in Karnataka State with headquarter in Bagalkote on 22 November 2008 by the Government of Karnataka, India. A survey of the use of information resources and library services by the students of eight Colleges of Horticulture, affiliated to the University of Horticultural Sciences was undertaken. Students enrolled for undergraduate course constitute 84.14% of the total student population. Hence, the findings of the study are biased towards the undergraduate students. Findings of the study reveal that majority of the students visit library daily or at least twice in a week and spend less than two hours during their visit. They visit library to borrow text books, general books in Horticulture and allied fields, read newspapers, magazines, and Indian and foreign journals. Reference sources such as dictionaries, encyclopedia are consulted rarely. Majority of the students never accessed bibliographic databases on CD/ROM or DVD and web resources. This may be due to the ignorance about the academic value of these resources or lack of technical skills. The situation calls for training them in information literacy skills to identify, locate, evaluate and use both print and electronic information resources efficiently, so that they can become independent and life long learners. Further, Reference service and Book lending service are very frequently used by the students. Photocopying facility is occasionally used or never used by majority of the students. It is necessary to provide Photocopying facility at affordable cost, which also helps in minimizing the misuse of print resources in the library.
Analysis of the Publications of the Gandhigram Rural Institute: A Bibliometric Study
Authors: Tamizhchelvan M. , Dhanavandan S.
Published: December 2015

This paper aims to bring out the publications by the Gandhigram Rural Institute through Scopus database. It is found 1328 publications are published from 1968-2015 and analysed them. Various tools for bibliometric study are used for frequency, citation analysis, authorship pattern. It is found that the Collaborative Index is very high with 3.60 and 3.08, 3.00 in the years 1998, 1997 and 1990 respectively. It is observed from the table that CC and MCC is showing growing trends after 1990.
Inactivation of α1-proteinase inhibitor by Candida albicans aspartic proteases favors the epithelial and endothelial cell colonization in the presence of neutrophil extracellular traps.
Authors: Gogol Mariusz , Ostrowska Dominika , Klaga Kinga , Bochenska Oliwia , Wolak Natalia , Aoki Wataru , Ueda Mitsuyoshi , Kozik Andrzej , Rapala-Kozik Maria
Published: December 2015

Candida albicans, a causative agent of opportunistic fungal infections in immunocompromised patients, uses ten secreted aspartic proteases (SAPs) to deregulate the homeostasis of the host organism on many levels. One of these deregulation mechanisms involves a SAP-dependent disturbance of the control over proteolytic enzymes of the host by a system of dedicated proteinase inhibitors, with one important example being the neutrophil elastase and alpha1-proteinase inhibitor (A1PI). In this study, we found that soluble SAPs 1-4 and the cell membrane-anchored SAP9 efficiently cleaved A1PI, with the major cleavage points located at the C-terminal part of A1PI in a close vicinity to the reactive-site loop that plays a critical role in the inhibition mechanism. Elastase is released by neutrophils to the environment during fungal infection through two major processes, a degranulation or formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NET). Both, free and NET-embedded elastase forms, were found to be controlled by A1PI. A local acidosis, resulting from the neutrophil activity at the infection sites, favors A1PI degradation by SAPs. The deregulation of NET-connected elastase affected a NET-dependent damage of epithelial and endothelial cells, resulting in the increased susceptibility of these host cells to candidal colonization. Moreover, the SAP-catalyzed cleavage of A1PI was found to decrease its binding affinity to a proinflammatory cytokine, interleukin-8. The findings presented here suggest a novel strategy used by C. albicans for the colonization of host tissues and overcoming the host defense.
Women Leadership in Local Wisdom Perspective: Bugis Muslims Scholars’ Thought and Bugis Culture
Authors: Yusuf Muhammad
Published: December 2015

This research is an effort to explain quranic values in collaborating and synergizing with the values of local wisdoms which influences social life paradigm. The main resources of this research are the  thought of Bugis Muslim scholars in the Quranic exegesis which is in Bugis language. This exegesis was written by MUI of South Sulawesi consisting of 11 volumes. This study concerns on the interpretation of verses on women leadership which is then connected with the cultural values of Bugis society. Data on cultural values were collected through interview and observation. Bugis ulama tend to follow the perspective of Middle Eastern ulama regarding the issue of leadership in the domestic area, they argue that man is the leader. Meanwhile the cultural values ‘sibaliperri, sipurepo’ indicate that husband and wife are partners in dealing with the family matters.  In the public space, Bugis ulama agree with the Bugis culture in which they say that women have opportunities to handle various tasks either at an organization or community

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Religion In The Construction Of Mass Media; A Study On The Kompas And Republika Framing Of The Terrorism News
Authors: Zaki Zakiah
Published: December 2015

This article concerns on how Kompas and Republika framed terrorism news and how they construct a religion (Islam) in those terrorism news. The way of the media exposing and selecting the facts to be published in their newspaper is an important aspect to be studied. This is because each media has its own inclination. Data was gathered using library research. Then, those collected data were analyzed using framing analysis and constructivism perspective. The results show that Kompas and Republika clearly said that Islam has nothing to do with terrorism and the terrorists have relationship with the International radical group like JI and Al-Qaeda. On the other hand, both newspapers have a slight difference in exposing the relationship between terrorists and pesantren. Republika said that those terrorists were not connected with pesantren. Meanwhile Kompas exposed the pro and contra about this matter.  In addition, both media have trivial differences in reporting about dakwah prohibition.  
Learning From The Socio-Religious Integration In Solor Village Indonesia
Authors: Ludji Irene , Lauterboom Mariska
Published: December 2015

The Indonesian nation with the motto “Bhineka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity) is a nation that believes in the beauty of pluralism as the primary model to build unity. Therefore, in building relationships that produce social integration, it should be characterized by acceptance and respect of pluralism and a willingness to learn from this pluralism. Unfortunately, the increasing number of conflicts results in the inability of society to tolerate differences, as seen in the nation’s self-identity becoming unstable. It is clear that the national identity needs to be reinforced through strategic steps that are systematic, clear-cut, and integrated, so that the national unity can be strongly united again. One of the ways to accomplish this is by learning from social integration that occurs in various locations in Indonesia. One such place is in Solor Village, Kupang. 
In the midst of various conflicts that center on ethnic groups, race, religion, and class issues in Indonesia, the relationship between the indigenous people and newcomers in Solor Village offers an alternative for social integration that can occur in this “Unity in Diversity” nation. This is the focus of this research, which uses a descriptive-qualitative format to analyze social integration strategic issues between newcomers with different religious and cultural backgrounds from the native inhabitants of Solor Village. The research shows that Solor Village residents succeed in building a harmonious life because in facing multiculturalism, religious and cultural values play an important role.Harmonious life in Solor Village confirm that social integration that build on respect to pluralism is possible.
Religious Values In Song Lyrics Tingkilan
Authors: Mustafa Muhammad Sadli
Published: December 2015

This globalization era brought people of East Kalimantan tend to prefer modern music and western music. This cause the local or traditional music art is marginalized. On the other hand, they have a local music art containing a lot of local wisdom. One of them is tingkilan music. Lyrics of tingkilan contain religious values. Therefore, this study intends to find and to describe the religious values in the song lyrics of the tingkilan musical arts. This study uses a qualitative research method. The research shows that in fact some tingkilan song lyrics have a deep religious value. Some of those religious values are thanksgiving favors, learning of the holly Qur’an, the way of eating and drinking in accordance with the Islamic teaching.
Inculcation Nation Character Values Through Islamic Religious Education Subject In Public Senior High School
Authors: Yustiani Yustiani
Published: December 2015

Cases of cheating, promiscuity, making sordid video student in the classroom are the phenomena of decline in character education at the school. In this sense, character education is essential to emphasized. This research uses qualitative approach, by applying design research CIPP model (Context, Input, Process, and Product). In context of building the nation character values at the school will success on condition that it is accompanied with system and climate supported by each school. One of supporting system and climate is the headmaster's policies on the regulation that support the implementation of character education, and this policy should be supported by infrastructure of the school. The input aspect that determines inculcation of nation character values in these both schools is the quality of the school resources including headmaster, teachers, educational staffs, students, and education infrastructures. From the aspects of process, inculcation nation character values on these schools is implemented through the integration of the Islamic religious education subject and culture of the school. Syllabus and RPP on subjects of Islamic religious education in State Senior High School 1 Kudus and State Senior High School 1 Jepara have already been insightful with the education of nation character. The aspects of product from internalization of cultural values and nation character are embodied in attitudes and behaviors of the students at school and society.
Temporal variability in aboveground plant biomass decreases as spatial variability increases
Authors: McGranahan Devan Allen , Hovick Torre J. , Dwayne Elmore R. , Engle David M. , Fuhlendorf Samuel D. , Winter Stephen L. , Miller James R. , Debinski Diane M.
Published: December 2015

Ecological theory predicts that diversity decreases variability in ecosystem function. We predict that, at the landscape scale, spatial variability created by a mosaic of contrasting patches that differ in time since disturbance will decrease temporal variability in aboveground plant biomass. Using data from a multi‐year study of seven grazed tallgrass prairie landscapes, each experimentally managed for one to eight patches, we show that increased spatial variability driven by spatially patchy fire and herbivory reduces temporal variability in aboveground plant biomass. This pattern is associated with statistical evidence for the portfolio effect and a positive relationship between temporal variability and functional group synchrony as predicted by metacommunity variability theory. As disturbance from fire and grazing interact to create a shifting mosaic of spatially heterogeneous patches within a landscape, temporal variability in aboveground plant biomass can be dampened. These results suggest that spatially heterogeneous disturbance regimes contribute to a portfolio of ecosystem functions provided by biodiversity, including wildlife habitat, fuel, and forage. We discuss how spatial patterns of disturbance drive variability within and among patches.
In Vitro Evaluation of Dentin Hydraulic Conductance After 980 nm Diode Laser Irradiation
Authors: Rizzante Fabio A.P. , Maenosono Rafael M. , Duarte Marco A.H. , Furuse Adilson Y. , Palma‐Dibb Regina G. , Ishikiriama Sérgio K.
Published: December 2015

Background: Dentin hypersensitivity treatments are based on the physical obliteration of the dentinal tubules to reduce hydraulic conductance. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the hydraulic conductance of bovine root dentin after irradiation with a 980‐nm diode laser, with or without associated fluoride varnish.

Methods: Sixty bovine root dentin specimens were divided into six groups (n = 10 in each group): G1, G3, and G5 (0.5 W, 0.7 W, and 1 W diode laser, respectively); G2, G4, and G6 (fluoride varnish application + 0.5 W, 0.7 W, and 1 W diode laser, respectively). The dentin hydraulic conductance was evaluated at four time periods with a fluxmeter: 1) with smear layer, 2) after 37% phosphoric acid etching, 3) after the treatments, and 4) after 6% citric acid challenge. After the dentinal fluid flow measurements, specimens were also evaluated for mineral composition using energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS).

Results: Analysis demonstrated a better result with increased irradiation power (P <0.001), especially if the diode laser irradiation was associated with the application of fluoride varnish (P <0.001), ensuring a greater reduction in permeability. Considering the groups treated only with laser irradiation, the 1 W group was superior when compared with the 0.5 W and 0.7 W irradiated groups immediately after treatment (P <0.001). After citric acid testing, all groups showed similar results, except when comparing the 1 W groups with the 0.5 W groups (P = 0.04). EDS results of the irradiated groups showed an increase in the proportion of calcium and phosphorus ions, which demonstrates a superficial composition modification after laser treatments.

Conclusion: Laser irradiation of exposed dentin promoted significant reduction in the dentin hydraulic conductance, mainly with higher energy densities and association with fluoride varnish.
Inversão, desnaturalização e reforço de práticas de gênero em peças publicitárias
Authors: Corrêa Laura Guimarães , Mendes André Melo
Published: December 2015

O artigo tem como objetivo apresentar uma discussão sobre gênero e feminismo vinculada à análise de três peças publicitárias brasileiras que propõem práticas e discursos que se diferenciam das práticas e discursos tradicionais em que predomina uma abordagem machista. Os comerciais analisados promovem produtos de limpeza e divulgam o lançamento de um carro. Nessas peças, as mulheres são apresentadas como pessoas distantes do trabalho doméstico, enquanto as tarefas de casa são executadas por homens. Trata-se de mudança significativa, se consideradas as representações de gênero correntes da publicidade brasileira. Nota-se, entretanto, a manutenção de relações desiguais e hierárquicas, em que apenas o vetor é mudado, mantendo-se a tradicional configuração heteronormativa e a estrutura dicotômica de divisão valorativa do trabalho baseada no gênero.
Por que russo e, não, soviético? Cinema e semiótica do campo eslavo
Authors: Machado Irene de Araújo
Published: December 2015

Este ensaio discute a dicotomia que entende o processo de denominação cultural identitária russa como forma de filiação ideológica soviética. Toma como ponto de partida o cinema de Tarkovski e seus embates com o realismo socialista porque situa aí as raízes de uma discussão, não menos polêmica, que ultrapassa os próprios limites da vanguarda revolucionária soviética. Segundo a hipótese de nosso trabalho, os embates que cercam o conflito russo versus soviético podem ser dimensionados em três eixos: o geopolítico, o cultural e o ideológico. Configurados nos campos literário, cinematográfico e semiótico, encontramos argumentos e experiências que nos levam a situar a pergunta de pesquisa como um caminho para a investigação crítica de uma história pouco conhecida.
ensaio entre a arte e a ciência
Authors: Mello Jamer Guterres de , Almeida Gabriela Machado Ramos de
Published: December 2015

Henri Arraes Gervaiseau é cineasta e professor da ECA-USP. Tem artigos publicados em revistas brasileiras e estrangeiras. É autor de O abrigo do tempo: abordagens cinematográficas da passagem do tempo (2012). Entre os seus documentários, premiados no Brasil e no exterior, destacam-se: Tem que ser baiano? (1994); Terra Prometida (1997); Em trânsito (2005); Retrato de grupo (2009); Entretempos (2012). O seu projeto de pesquisa atual tem como tema central o documentário, mas particularmente de cunho ensaístico, como meio de expressão da experiência do deslocamento. Nesta perspectiva, reflexão teórica, revisão crítica e análise de uma série de obras estrategicamente escolhidas encontram-se associadas à elaboração de ensaios audiovisuais inéditos que envolvem a própria experiência existencial de deslocamento do pesquisador realizador, francobrasileiro. Henri Arraes Gervaiseau dedica-se atualmente a preparação do primeiro filme da sua Trilogia do deslocamento. Esta entrevista foi realizada por ocasião da sua visita a Porto Alegre, em março de 2015, para realização da aula inaugural do Programa de Pós-Graduação em Comunicação e Informação da Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (PPGCOM/UFRGS). Na conversa, Gervaiseau reflete sobre o espaço do ensaio como lugar de produção de conhecimento, as fronteiras entre o ensaio, a arte e o texto científico e a prática ensaística no audiovisual.
Identidade e representação
Authors: Martins Sabrina , Prodanov Cleber
Published: December 2015

O presente artigo analisa as representações femininas existentes no filme alemão A Fita Branca (2009) e a forma como estas representações constituem a identidade das mulheres na obra. Por meio da descrição de cenas e sequências do filme e da incorporação dos conceitos de representação, identidade e discurso procura-se demonstrar de que maneira as mulheres são subjugadas, além de toda a rigidez, o patriarcalismo e o puritanismo da sociedade local.
Designing Efficient Facilities in Challenging Locations
Authors: Whitfield Stephen
Published: December 2015

As exploration and production (E&P) projects move into more unique territories, operating companies must evaluate their projects' infrastructures and devise strategies to sufficiently prepare for a growing energy demand. These strategies may take the form of significant upgrades to existing facilities or the construction of new facilities altogether.

At the 2015 SPE Annual Technical Conference and Exhibition, representatives from small private and state-owned operating companies discussed the challenges they faced with facilities design and construction, both onshore and offshore. This feature examines some of the strategies that were taken to handle those challenges.
The Savvy Separator Series: Part 4. The Ghosts of Separators Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Members Past and Present , Chin Robert
Published: December 2015

The officers and directors of the SPE Separations Technology Technical Section represent more than 250 years of experience in the industry. Throughout their careers, they have developed savvy from what has been passed on to them from their own mentors, lessons learned the hard way, or learned as good practice. In any case, their ghosts of separators past visit us in this article so that we do not repeat the same mistakes in the future. 

The lessons learned list that follows in neither exhaustive nor prioritized and may seem obvious. However, even for the experienced, it can be a checklist for proper design. Your feedback, sharing of lessons learned, and savvy are most appreciated.

*Current members: Jimmie Riesenberg, Victor van Asperen, Brad Nelson, Flavia Viana, Spencer Oulman, Mike Tienhaara, Hank Rawlins, Manok Bulsara, Graeme White, Jay Stell, Norman, Yeh, Richard Arntzen, and Chris Heijckers. Past members who contributed to this article are Ed Grave, Chris Buckingham, and Robert Chin. The authors thank Ken Arnold, Jose Bravo, Doug McCammon, and Graeme Smith for their contributions.
Preparation of quaternary ammonium–Chlorella vulgaris and its adsorption of Ag(CN)2−
Authors: Li Ting , Guo Chencen , Xie Tonghui , Zhou Chengxianyi , Zhang Yongkui
Published: December 2015

A novel anion exchange resin, quaternary ammonium–Chlorella vulgaris (QACV), was prepared by introducing quaternary ammonium groups onto dried Chlorella vulgaris as base material. Degrees of epoxy, amine and quaternary ammonium groups of QACV were measured. Water retention, optical microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry were used to characterize QAVC. The adsorption behavior of QACV towards Ag(CN)2− in different conditions was studied carefully. The results showed that QAVC was efficient to adsorb Ag(CN)2− at pH 9–11, and adsorption equilibrium was almost reached in 30 min. Both kinetics and isotherm parameters in the adsorption process were obtained. The data indicated that the pseudo-second-order model provided a good correlation for adsorption of Ag(CN)2− on QACV and the calculated rate constant of the adsorption was 3.51 g/(mmol min). The equilibrium data fitted well in the Langmuir isotherm and the estimated maximum adsorption capacity qm was 1.96 mmol/g. The dimensionless separation factor RL was between 0 and 1, suggesting that the adsorption process of Ag(CN)2− using QACV was favorable. The QACV could be used successively three times without significantly affecting its adsorption efficiency. Chlorella vulgaris was a potential base material to be modified with quaternary ammonium groups to prepare an adsorbent for adsorption of Ag(CN)2−.
Transport of sucrose-modified nanoscale zero-valent iron in saturated porous media: role of media size, injection rate and input concentration
Authors: Li Hui , Zhao Yong-sheng , Han Zhan-tao , Hong Mei
Published: December 2015

The growing use of nanoscale zero-valent iron (NZVI) in the remediation of contaminated groundwater raises concerns regarding its transport in aquifers. Laboratory-scale sand-packed column experiments were conducted with bare and sucrose-modified NZVI (SM-NZVI) to improve our understanding of the transport of the nanoparticles in saturated porous media, as well as the role of media size, suspension injection rate and concentration on the nanoparticle behavior. As the main indicative parameters, the normalized effluent concentration was measured and the deposition rate coefficient (k) was calculated for different simulated conditions. Overall, compared to the high retention of bare NZVI in the saturated silica column, SM-NZVI suspension could travel through the coarse sand column easily. However, the transport of SM-NZVI particles was not very satisfactory in a smaller size granular matrix especially in fine silica sand. Furthermore, the value of k regularly decreased with the increasing injection rate of suspension but increased with suspension concentration, which could reflect the role of these factors in the SM-NZVI travel process. The calculation of k-value at the tests condition adequately described the experimental results from the point of deposition dynamics, which meant the assumption of first-order deposition kinetics for the transport of NZVI particles was reasonable and feasible.
CFD simulation of an unbaffled stirred tank reactor driven by a magnetic rod: assessment of turbulence models
Authors: Li Jiajia , Deng Baoqing , Zhang Bing , Shen Xiuzhong , Kim Chang Nyung
Published: December 2015

A simulation of an unbaffled stirred tank reactor driven by a magnetic stirring rod was carried out in a moving reference frame. The free surface of unbaffled stirred tank was captured by Euler–Euler model coupled with the volume of fluid (VOF) method. The re-normalization group (RNG) k–ɛ model, large eddy simulation (LES) model and detached eddy simulation (DES) model were evaluated for simulating the flow field in the stirred tank. All turbulence models can reproduce the tangential velocity in an unbaffled stirred tank with a rotational speed of 150 rpm, 250 rpm and 400 rpm, respectively. Radial velocity is underpredicted by the three models. LES model and RNG k–ɛ model predict the better tangential velocity and axial velocity, respectively. RNG k–ɛ model is recommended for the simulation of the flow in an unbaffled stirred tank with magnetic rod due to its computational effort.
Modification of tubular ceramic membranes with carbon nanotubes using catalytic chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Tran Duc Trung , Thieffry Guillemette , Jacob Matthieu , Batiot-Dupeyrat Catherine , Teychene Benoit
Published: December 2015

In this study, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were successfully grown on tubular ceramic membranes using the catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CCVD) method. CNTs were synthesized at 650°C for 3–6 h under a 120 mL min−1 flow of C2H6 on ceramic membranes impregnated with iron salt. The synthesis procedure was beforehand optimized in terms of catalyst amount, impregnation duration and reaction temperature, using small pieces of tubular ceramic membranes. The yield, size and structure of the CNTs produced were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis and microscopic imaging techniques. Afterwards, preliminary filtration tests with alginate and phenol were performed on two modified tubular membranes. The results indicate that the addition of CNTs on the membrane material increased the permeability of ceramic membrane and its ability to reject alginate and adsorb phenol, yet decreased its fouling resistance.
Decolorization of Reactive Black 39 and Acid Red 360 by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Behzat Balci
Published: December 2015

The aim of this work is to evaluate decolorization of Reactive Black 39 (RB39) and Acid Red 360 (AR360) by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which was isolated from a non-dye-contaminated activated sludge biomass. In the present study, the effect of various physicochemical parameters, initial dye concentration, temperature, pH, inoculum size and yeast extract concentration as an organic source on decolorization were investigated. P. aeruginosa was able to decolorize 20 mg/L RB39 completely within 144 hours in the presence of 0.5 g/L yeast extract at 25°C. Decolorization efficiencies for AR360 were found to be higher than RB39 under the same conditions. Optimal temperature to decolorize RB39 and AR360 was found to be 30 and 25°C, respectively. The activation energy (Ea) values for decolorization of RB39 and AR360 were found to be 61.89 kJ/mol and 81.18 kJ/mol, respectively. Experience showed that the pH and inoculum size had a considerable effect on decolorization of RB39 and AR360 by P. aeruginosa.
Assessment of erosion and sedimentation dynamic in a combined sewer network using online turbidity monitoring
Authors: Bersinger T. , Le Hécho I. , Bareille G. , Pigot T.
Published: December 2015

Eroded sewer sediments are a significant source of organic matter discharge by combined sewer overflows. Many authors have studied the erosion and sedimentation processes at the scale of a section of sewer pipe and over short time periods. The objective of this study was to assess these processes at the scale of an entire sewer network and over 1 month, to understand whether phenomena observed on a small scale of space and time are still valid on a larger scale. To achieve this objective the continuous monitoring of turbidity was used. First, the study of successive rain events allows observation of the reduction of the available sediment and highlights the widely different erosion resistance for the different sediment layers. Secondly, calculation of daily chemical oxygen demand (COD) fluxes during the entire month was performed showing that sediment storage in the sewer pipe after a rain period is important and stops after 5 days. Nevertheless, during rainfall events, the eroded fluxes are more important than the whole sewer sediment accumulated during a dry weather period. This means that the COD fluxes promoted by runoff are substantial. This work confirms, with online monitoring, most of the conclusions from other studies on a smaller scale.
The chemical fractionation and potential source identification of Cu, Zn and Cd on urban watershed
Authors: Zhang Jin , Hua Pei , Krebs Peter
Published: December 2015

This study showcases the chemical fractionation and primary source identification of Cu, Zn and Cd in road-deposited sediment. Results show that Zn and Cd were identified as easily mobilised and biologically available metals that pose high risks to the receiving aquatic environments. However, Cu was released in substantial amounts only under relatively extreme conditions. With the assistance of principal component analysis and chemical fractionation, two primary contributors to heavy metals in road-deposited sediment were tentatively identified as vehicle-related sources (especially, auto brake pad erosion for Cu and tyre debris for Zn) and atmospheric deposition (especially for Cd).
Load limit of a UASB fed septic tank-treated domestic wastewater
Authors: Lohani Sunil Prasad , Bakke Rune , Khanal Sanjay N.
Published: December 2015

Performance of a 250 L pilot-scale up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor, operated at ambient temperatures, fed septic tank effluents intermittently, was monitored for hydraulic retention time (HRT) from 18 h to 4 h. The total suspended solids (TSS), total chemical oxygen demand (CODT), dissolved chemical oxygen demand (CODdis) and suspended chemical oxygen demand (CODss) removal efficiencies ranged from 20 to 63%, 15 to 56%, 8 to 35% and 22 to 72%, respectively, for the HRT range tested. Above 60% TSS and 47% CODT removal were obtained in the combined septic tank and UASB process. The process established stable UASB treatment at HRT ≥ 6 h, indicating a hydraulic load design limit. The tested septic tank–UASB combined system can be a low-cost and effective on-site sanitation solution.
Do wastewater treatment plants act as a potential point source of microplastics? Preliminary study in the coastal Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea
Authors: Talvitie Julia , Heinonen Mari , Pääkkönen Jari-Pekka , Vahtera Emil , Mikola Anna , Setälä Outi , Vahala Riku
Published: December 2015

This study on the removal of microplastics during different wastewater treatment unit processes was carried out at Viikinmäki wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). The amount of microplastics in the influent was high, but it decreased significantly during the treatment process. The major part of the fibres were removed already in primary sedimentation whereas synthetic particles settled mostly in secondary sedimentation. Biological filtration further improved the removal. A proportion of the microplastic load also passed the treatment and was found in the effluent, entering the receiving water body. After the treatment process, an average of 4.9 (±1.4) fibres and 8.6 (±2.5) particles were found per litre of wastewater. The total textile fibre concentration in the samples collected from the surface waters in the Helsinki archipelago varied between 0.01 and 0.65 fibres per litre, while the synthetic particle concentration varied between 0.5 and 9.4 particles per litre. The average fibre concentration was 25 times higher and the particle concentration was three times higher in the effluent compared to the receiving body of water. This indicates that WWTPs may operate as a route for microplastics entering the sea.
Boosting innovation in the water sector – the role and lessons learned from collaborative projects
Authors: Alegre H. , Coelho S. T. , Feliciano J. F. , Matos R.
Published: December 2015

A key worldwide challenge in most sectors is to boost the effective adoption of innovation, as underpinned by the new European Union research programme Horizon 2020, which focuses on increasing innovation in Europe from 2014 to 2020. This is particularly relevant in the water sector, often perceived as conservative and averse to change. This paper discusses the role that collaborative knowledge-transfer projects can play in effectively rolling out R&D in the water industry. LNEC (Laboratório Nacional de Engenharia Civil) has designed a structured model based on a phased programme and a network of utilities and researchers. The paper presents the core principles, the rationale, the model and methods used, and the theoretical background, as well as the project’s impact, outcomes and products. The discussion highlights the lessons learnt and provides a formal analysis of the advantages of focusing on middle management as an effective entry point, even if innovation is needed across the organization. Making training materials, guidelines, use cases, data and software publicly available after the project's end has proven to have a decisive multiplying effect. The paper also argues in favour of the collaborative model as a basis for R&D sustainability, and details on-going and planned developments.
Occurrence and enrichment of ‘bacterial sherpas’: climb to sustainability in wastewater treatment
Authors: Arnaldos M. , Pagilla K. R.
Published: December 2015

The paper presents research on hemoglobin (Hb)-expressing bacteria in biological wastewater treatment systems. The outcome(s) will greatly reduce the aeration needs of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and provide insight into emerging biological nitrogen removal processes using low dissolved oxygen (DO) conditions. In anthropogenic terms, the bacteria that express Hb could be considered as ‘bacterial sherpas’ that can function under low DO conditions. Hitherto, this functionality of bacteria has not been realized due to the initial response of the aerobic treatment stage: namely, morphology change by bacteria to filamentous forms to overcome oxygen mass transfer limitations causing bulking/foaming and nitrification inhibition. There is evidence, however, of the potential expression of Hb proteins by activated sludge (AS) bacteria. First, bacteria known to possess genes coding Hb proteins have been isolated from AS systems. Secondly, there is evidence that WWTPs are able to operate their biological processes at low DO without sludge bulking or incomplete nitrification. Our research has focused on nitrifying systems and has shown that this is due to prolonged operation at low DO conditions (0.1 mg O2/L), which allows sufficient time for bacterial acclimation. Additionally, it has been shown that enhanced Hb expression is linked to acclimation to low DO conditions.
Performance of chlorination process during nanofiltration of sulfonamide antibiotic
Authors: Ramli Mohd Redzuan , Sulaiman Nik Meriam Nik , Mohd Mustafa Ali , Rabuni Mohamad Fairus
Published: December 2015

The effectiveness of combined nanofiltration and disinfection processes was studied by comparing the pre-disinfection and post-disinfection when in combination with nanofiltration. Four types of sulfonamide (sulfanilamide, sulfadiazine, sulfamethoxazole, and sulfadimethoxine) were chosen as substrates, with sodium hypochlorite as a disinfectant. A laboratory-scale nanofiltration system was used to conduct the following sets of experiment: (1) a pre-chlorination system, where the free active chlorine (FAC) was added to the membrane influent; and (2), a post-chlorination system, where the FAC was added to the membrane effluent. Overall, the pre-disinfection nanofiltration system showed higher sulfonamide removal efficiency compared to the post-chlorination nanofiltration system (>99.5% versus >89.5%). In the case of limited FAC ([FAC]0: [sulfonamide]0 ≤ 1), the removal efficiency for the post-chlorination nanofiltration system was higher, due to the prior nanofiltration process that could remove 12.5% to 80% of sulfonamide. The flux of the treated feed system was considerably higher than in the untreated feed system; however, the membrane was observed to be slightly damaged due to residual chlorine attack.
An event-based hydrologic simulation model for bioretention systems
Authors: Roy-Poirier A. , Filion Y. , Champagne P.
Published: December 2015

Bioretention systems are designed to treat stormwater and provide attenuated drainage between storms. Bioretention has shown great potential at reducing the volume and improving the quality of stormwater. This study introduces the bioretention hydrologic model (BHM), a one-dimensional model that simulates the hydrologic response of a bioretention system over the duration of a storm event. BHM is based on the RECARGA model, but has been adapted for improved accuracy and integration of pollutant transport models. BHM contains four completely-mixed layers and accounts for evapotranspiration, overflow, exfiltration to native soils and underdrain discharge. Model results were evaluated against field data collected over 10 storm events. Simulated flows were particularly sensitive to antecedent water content and drainage parameters of bioretention soils, which were calibrated through an optimisation algorithm. Temporal disparity was observed between simulated and measured flows, which was attributed to preferential flow paths formed within the soil matrix of the field system. Modelling results suggest that soil water storage is the most important short-term hydrologic process in bioretention, with exfiltration having the potential to be significant in native soils with sufficient permeability.
Application of XCMS Online and toxicity bioassays to the study of transformation products of levofloxacin
Authors: Segura Pedro A. , Saadi Karim , Clair Alexandra , Lecours Marc-André , Yargeau Viviane
Published: December 2015

We studied the nature and antimicrobial activity of ozonolysis transformation products (OTPs) of levofloxacin (LEV), a frequently detected fluoroquinolone antimicrobial in environmental waters. Two bioassays, the Kirby–Bauer test and the broth microdilution assay, were used to measure changes in the antimicrobial activity of solutions at low LEV to O3 molar ratios (2:1, 2:3 and 1:3) compared to solutions without added O3 (LEV:O3 1:0). The Kirby–Bauer test was not sensitive enough to detect significant differences in the growth inhibition zones in samples LEV:O3 2:1 and LEV:O3 1:0; however, the broth microdilution assay showed that bacterial growth inhibition was significantly lower (P < 0.001) in the solutions exposed to O3. Loss of antimicrobial activity in LEV:O3 2:1 solutions of (48 ± 16)% was in agreement with the concentration decrease of LEV of (36 ± 3)% in those same samples. A method of identification of OTPs using XCMS Online was applied to LEV:O3 2:1 and 1:0 samples and indicated the presence of an OTP of LEV of formula C18H20O5N3F, which was identified as LEV-N-oxide. The molecular structure of this compound was partially confirmed by tandem mass spectrometry experiments. This study showed that even at sub-optimal ozone doses, OTPs of higher antimicrobial activity than LEV were not formed.
Research on the treatment of oily wastewater by coalescence technology
Authors: Li Chunbiao , Li Meng , Zhang Xiaoyan
Published: December 2015

Recently, oily wastewater treatment has become a hot research topic across the world. Among the common methods for oily wastewater treatment, coalescence is one of the most promising technologies because of its high efficiency, easy operation, smaller land coverage, and lower investment and operational costs. In this research, a new type of ceramic filter material was chosen to investigate the effects of some key factors including particle size of coarse-grained materials, temperature, inflow direction and inflow velocity of the reactor. The aim was to explore the optimum operating conditions for coarse-graining. Results of a series of tests showed that the optimum operating conditions were a combination of grain size 1–3 mm, water temperature 35 °C and up-flow velocity 8 m/h, which promised a maximum oil removal efficiency of 93%.
Contrasting suspended covers reveal the impact of an artificial monolayer on heat transfer processes at the interfacial boundary layer
Authors: Pittaway P. , Martínez-Alvarez V. , Hancock N.
Published: December 2015

The highly variable performance of artificial monolayers in reducing evaporation from water storages has been attributed to wind speed and wave turbulence. Other factors operating at the interfacial boundary layer have seldom been considered. In this paper, two physical shade covers differing in porosity and reflectivity were suspended over 10 m diameter water tanks to attenuate wind and wave turbulence. The monolayer octadecanol was applied to one of the covered tanks, and micrometeorological conditions above and below the covers were monitored to characterise diurnal variation in the energy balance. A high downward (air-to-water) convective heat flux developed under the black cover during the day, whereas diurnal variation in the heat flux under the more reflective, wind-permeable white cover was much less. Hourly air and water temperature profiles under the covers over 3 days when forced convection was minimal (low wind speed) were selected for analysis. Monolayer application reduced temperature gain in surface water under a downward convective heat flux, and conversely reduced temperature loss under an upward convective heat flux. This ‘dual property’ may explain why repeat application of an artificial monolayer to retard evaporative loss (reducing latent heat loss) does not inevitably increase water temperature.
Effect of continuously dosing Cu(II) on pollutant removal and soluble microbial products in a sequencing batch reactor
Authors: Yan YangWei , Wang YuWen , Liu Yan , Liu Xiang , Yao ChenChao , Ma LuMing
Published: December 2015

The effects of synthetic wastewater that contained 20 mg/L Cu(II) on the removal of organic pollutants in a sequencing batch reactor were investigated. Results of continuous 20 mg/L Cu(II) exposure for 120 days demonstrated that the chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency decreased to 42% initially, followed by a subsequent gradual recovery, which peaked at 78% by day 97. Effluent volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration contributed 67 to 89% of the influent COD in the experimental reactor, which indicated that the degradation of the organic substances ceased at the VFA production step. Meanwhile, the varieties of soluble microbial products (SMP) content and main components (protein, polysaccharide, and DNA) were discussed to reveal the response of activated sludge to the toxicity of 20 mg/L Cu(II). The determination of Cu(II) concentrations in extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and SMP throughout the experiment indicated an inverse relationship between extracellular Cu(II) concentration and COD removal efficiency.
Cerebral microbleeds as a biomarker in Alzheimer's disease? A review in the field
Authors: Shams Sara , Wahlund Lars-Olof
Published: December 2015

Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are a marker of small vessel disease, increasingly recognized as being of importance in the Alzheimer's disease (AD) process. CMBs influence in AD, and its longitudinal impact on disease progression is however still unknown. CMBs show several associations with AD across studies, are associated with decreased cerebrospinal fluid amyloid levels and are related with the ApoE ϵ4 allele, as well as other imaging manifestations typical for small vessel disease. CMBs, in addition to other markers of small vessel disease, are important to discover further in order to discern possible AD phenotypes.
Urinary apolipoprotein M as a biomarker of acute kidney injury in children undergoing heart surgery
Authors: Madsen Svarrer Eva Martha , Andersen Henrik Ørbæk , Helvind Morten , Slagman Maartje CJ , Navis Gerjan , Dullaart Robin PF , Dahlbäck Björn , Nielsen Lars Bo
Published: December 2015

Aim: To investigate whether apoM is excreted in urine of children undergoing heart surgery and the potential of apoM as early biomarker of acute kidney injury (AKI). Materials & methods: Urine was collected in children undergoing heart surgery. ApoM was measured with ELISA. U-apoM was characterized by gel filtration chromatography and western blotting. Results: ApoM was excreted into the urine 0–4 h postoperatively as the full-length apoM in particles smaller than plasma HDL. At 0 h, U-apoM predicted AKI with an area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve of 0.70 (p < 0.018). Sensitivity was 0.71 and specificity was 0.68 at a cutoff level at 1.45 nmol/l. Conclusion: ApoM is excreted in the urine of children after cardiac surgery. Its potential as biomarker of AKI deserves exploration.
Prognostic use of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 and placental growth factor in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Sinning Christoph , Schnabel Renate B , Zeller Tanja , Seiffert Moritz , Rupprecht Hans J , Lackner Karl J , Blankenberg Stefan , Bickel Christoph , Westermann Dirk
Published: December 2015

Background: Intention of the study is to assess the cardiovascular mortality of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) with the biomarkers of angiogenesis PlGF and its endogenous inhibitor sFlt-1. Methods: The cohort included n = 1848 patients with CAD and 282 subjects without CAD. In 85 patients cardiovascular mortality, as combination of fatal myocardial infarction or any cardiac death, during a median follow-up duration of 3.9 years was reported. Results: In Kaplan–Meier curve analysis PlGF in rising thirds was not predictive regarding outcome (p = 0.54), the same was shown for sFlt-1 (p = 0.44). Cox regression for the fully adjusted model provided a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.8 (p = 0.18) for PlGF and for sFlt-1 a HR = 1.0 (p = 0.8). Conclusion: Our results point out that these biomarkers reflecting angiogenesis might not be suited to establish prognosis in CAD.
Anal cancer screening knowledge, attitudes, and experiences among men who have sex with men in Ottawa, Ontario
Authors: Moores Andrew , Phillips J. Craig , O'Byrne Patrick , MacPherson Paul
Published: December 2015

Anal cancer is rare; however, men who have sex with men (MSM) are at significantly increased risk compared to the general population. In Canada, no widespread screening programs nor accepted standards of care exist to inform primary care physicians (PCP) regarding screening and prevention for MSM patients. Our objective was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and experience of a sample of MSM regarding anal cancer risk, screening, prevention, and acceptability of HPV vaccination. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at an STI clinic for MSM in Ottawa, Ontario over a 20-week period. Descriptive statistics, Pearson's Chi-square test and binary logistic regression for comparisons between groups were completed. Fifty-five percent of respondents were aware of increased anal cancer risk among MSM; 47.7% were aware that HPV is the primary cause. Only 14.8% of men with a PCP had discussed anal cancer screening and prevention with their PCP. Of those who had not, 86.0% indicated they would be comfortable having that discussion. Just under 8% reported receiving an appropriate screening test. The HPV vaccination rate was 16.2%. The majority of respondents who had not been vaccinated expressed openness to vaccination. A clear deficiency was observed in terms of MSM knowledge regarding anal cancer risk and inclusion of this health concern in their primary care. This highlights the need for more discussion between MSM and their PCPs to ensure MSM are aware of their risk and of available screening and prevention options recognizing the limited evidence-base for anal cancer screening.