bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted suppression of heme oxygenase-1 by small interference RNAs inhibits the production of bilirubin in neonatal rat with hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: Wu Jinyong , Su Wen , Jin Youxin , Shi Yi , Li Chune , Zhong Wenwei , Zhang Xuehong , Zhang Zili , Xia Zhenwei
Published: August 2009

Background

Excessive accumulation of bilirubin contributes to neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in rats. Heme oxygenase (HO) is one of the rate-limiting enzymes in catabolizing heme to bilirubin. In the present study, we investigated whether suppression of rat HO-1 (rHO-1) expression by small interference RNAs (siRNAs) reduces bilirubin levels in hyperbilirubinemic rats.

Results

Four pairs of siRNA targeting rHO-1 mRNA were introduced into BRL cells and compared for their inhibitory effect on the expression ofrHO-1gene and production of rHO-1 protein. The siRNA exhibiting the most potent effect on HO-1 expression and activity was then administered intraperitoneally to 7 to 9-day-old rats with hyperbilirubinemia. The siRNA distributed mostly in the liver and spleen of neonatal rat. Serum bilirubin levels and hepatic HO-1 expression were further evaluated. Systemic treatment of siRNA targeting rHO-1 reduced hepatic HO-1 expression and decreased the serum bilirubin levels in a time- and dose-dependent manner, and siRNA decreased the indirect bilirubin levels more effectively than Sn-protoporphyrin (SnPP), an HO-1 inhibitor.

Conclusion

siRNA targeting rHO-l attenuates hepatic HO-1 expression and serum bilirubin levels. Thus this study provides a novel therapeutic rationale for the prevention and treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
Antagonistic actions of boron against inhibitory effects of aluminum toxicity on growth, CO2 assimilation, ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase, and photosynthetic electron transport probed by the JIP-test, of Citrus grandisseedlings
Authors: Jiang Huan-Xin , Tang Ning , Zheng Jin-Gui , Chen Li-Song
Published: August 2009

Background

Little information is available on the amelioration of boron (B) on aluminum (Al)-induced photosynthesis inhibition. Sour pummelo (Citrus grandis) seedlings were irrigated for 18 weeks with nutrient solution containing 4 B levels (2.5, 10, 25 and 50 μM H3BO3) × 2 Al levels (0 and 1.2 mM AlCl3·6H2O). The objectives of this study were to determine how B alleviates Al-induced growth inhibition and to test the hypothesis that Al-induced photosynthesis inhibition can be alleviated by Bviapreventing Al from getting into shoots.

Results

B had little effect on plant growth, root, stem and leaf Al, leaf chlorophyll (Chl), CO2assimilation, ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco), Chl a fluorescence (OJIP) transient and related parameters without Al stress except that root, stem and leaf B increased with increasing B supply and that 50 μM B decreased slightly root dry weight. Al-treated roots, stems and leaves displayed a higher or similar B. B did not affect root Al under Al stress, but decreased stem and leaf Al level. Shoot growth is more sensitive to Al stress than root growth, CO2assimilation, Chl, Rubisco, OJIP transient and most related parameters. Al-treated leaves showed decreased CO2assimilation, but increased or similar intercellular CO2concentration. Both initial and total Rubisco activity in Al-treated leaves decreased to a lesser extent than CO2assimilation. Al decreased maximum quantum yield of primary photochemistry and total performance index, but increased minimum fluorescence, K-band, relative variable fluorescence at J- and I-steps. B could alleviate Al-induced increase or decrease for all these parameters. Generally speaking, the order of B effectiveness was 25 μM > 10 μM ≥ 50 μM (excess B) > 2.5 μM.

Conclusion

We propose that Al-induced photosynthesis inhibition was mainly caused by impaired photosynthetic electron transport chain, which may be associated with growth inhibition. B-induced amelioration of root inhibition was probably caused by B-induced changes in Al speciation and/or sub-cellular compartmentation. However, B-induced amelioration of shoot and photosynthesis inhibition and photoinhibitory damage occurring at both donor and acceptor sides of photosystem II could be due to less Al accumulation in shoots.
Translation and validation study of the Persian version of the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2 (AIMS2) in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee
Authors: Mousavi Sayed Javad , Parnianpour Mohamad , Askary-Ashtiani Ahmad Reza , Hadian Mohamad Reza , Rostamian Abdolrahman , Montazeri Ali
Published: August 2009

Background

The Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2 (AIMS2) has not been translated and validated for Persian-speaking patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. This was to provide a validated instrument to measure functional disability and health-related quality of life in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee in Iran. The aim of this study was to culturally adapt and validate the AIMS2 for Persian-speaking patients with osteoarthritis of the knee in Iran.

Methods

A consecutive sample of patients with knee osteoarthritis were asked to complete the AIMS2, the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and four visual analog scales for pain, joint stiffness, patient's and physician's global assessment. Internal consistency and convergent validity were applied to examine psychometric properties of the AIMS2. In addition, 30 randomly selected patients were asked to complete the questionnaire two days later for the second time for test-retest reliability. Finally factor structure of the Persian AIMS2 was performed using the principal component factor analysis.

Results

In all 230 patients were entered into the study. The mean (SD) age of the participants was 56.9 (8.7) years and the mean (SD) duration of disease was 7.2 (3.5) years. Cronbach's alpha coefficient and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) for the Persian AIMS2 scales ranged from 0.74 to 0.92 and 0.85 to 0.96, respectively. The correlation between most of the Persian AIMS2 scales and the physical and mental summary scores of the SF-36 and the visual analogue scales for pain, joint stiffness, patient's and physician's global assessment were statistically significant indicating a good convergent validity (p < 0.05). The results obtained from factor analysis indicated three latent factors that jointly accounted for 67.5% of the total variance.

Conclusion

The results showed that the Persian AIMS2 had reasonably good internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and convergent validity in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. It is simple and easy to use and now can be applied in the future studies in Iran. However, its sensitivity to change needs still to be studied.
Acute effect of electroacupuncture at the Zusanli acupoints on decreasing insulin resistance as shown by lowering plasma free fatty acid levels in steroid-background male rats
Authors: Lin Rong-Tsung , Tzeng Chung-Yuh , Lee Yu-Chen , Ho Wai-Jane , Cheng Juei-Tang , Lin Jaung-Geng , Chang Shih-Liang
Published: August 2009

Background

Insulin sensitivity has been enhanced by electroacupuncture (EA) in rats, but the EA phenomenon in an insulin resistant state is still unclear. This study reports the use of a large dose of prednisolone to evaluate the effects of EA in a state of insulin resistance.

Methods

The plasma levels of free fatty acids (FFAs) were estimated in steroid-background rats (SBRs) and compared with those in healthy rats treated with normal saline. In addition, plasma glucose and endogenous insulin levels were assayed to calculate the homeostasis model assessment (HOMA) index. Intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) was carried out to compare glucose tolerance. The SBRs were randomly divided into EA-treatment and non-EA treatment groups and 15-Hz EA was applied to the bilateral Zusanli acupoints to investigate its effects on insulin resistance. In addition to an insulin challenge test (ICT) and IVGTT, the plasma levels of FFAs were measured and western blot was performed to help determine the effects of EA on the insulin resistant state.

Results

The plasma levels of FFAs increased markedly in SBRs, the HOMA index was markedly higher, and glucose tolerance was impaired. EA improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity by decreasing the plasma levels of FFAs. Further, the insulin signaling proteins (IRS1) and glucose transporter isoform protein (GLUT4) in skeletal muscle inhibited by prednisolone recovered after EA.

Conclusion

Insulin resistance was successfully induced by a large dose of prednisolone in male rats. This insulin resistance can be improved by 15 Hz EA at the bilateral Zusanli acupoints, as shown by decreased plasma levels of FFAs.
Online assessment of patients' views on hospital performances using Rasch model's KIDMAP diagram
Authors: Chien Tsair-Wei , Wang Wen-Chung , Wang Hsien-Yi , Lin Hung-Jung
Published: August 2009

Background

To overcome the drawback of individual item-by-item box plots of disclosure for patient views on healthcare service quality, we propose to inspect interrelationships among items that measure a common entity. A visual diagram on the Internet is developed to provide thorough information for hospitals.

Methods

We used the Rasch rating scale model to analyze the 2003 English inpatient questionnaire data regarding patient satisfactory perception, which were collected from 169 hospitals, examined model-data fit, and developed a KIDMAP diagram on the Internet depicting the satisfaction level of each hospital and investigating aberrant responses with Z-scores and MNSQ statistics for individual hospitals. Differential item functioning (DIF) analysis was conducted to verify construct equivalence across types of hospitals.

Results

18 of the 45 items fit to the model's expectations, indicating they jointly defined a common construct and an equal-interval logit scale was achieved. The most difficult aspect for hospitals to earn inpatients' satisfaction were item 29 (staff told you about any medication side effects to watch when going home). No DIF in the 18-item questionnaire was found between types of hospitals, indicating the questionnaire measured the same construct across hospitals. Different types of hospitals obtained different levels of satisfaction. The KIDMAP on the Internet provided more interpretable and visualized message than traditional item-by-item box plots of disclosure.

Conclusion

After removing misfit items, we find that the 18-item questionnaire measures the same construct across types of hospitals. The KIDMAP on the Internet provides an exemplary comparison in quality of healthcare. Rasch analysis allows intra- and inter-hospital performances to be compared easily and reliably with each other on the Internet.
Cardiomyopathy in offspring of diabetic rats is associated with activation of the MAPK and apoptotic pathways
Authors: Reinking Benjamin E , Wedemeyer Elesa W , Weiss Robert M , Segar Jeffrey L , Scholz Thomas D
Published: August 2009

Background

Maternal diabetes affects the developing fetal cardiovascular system. Newborn offspring of diabetic mothers can have a transient cardiomyopathy. We hypothesized that cardiomyopathic remodeling is associated with activation of the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and apoptotic pathways.

Methods

To evaluate the effects of moderate and severe maternal hyperglycemia, pregnant rats were made diabetic with an injection of 50 mg/kg of streptozotocin. Moderately well controlled maternal diabetes was achieved with twice daily glucose checks and insulin injections. No insulin was given to severely diabetic dams. Offspring of moderate and severe diabetic mothers (OMDM and MSDM, respectively) were studied on postnatal days 1 (NB1) and 21 (NB21). Echocardiograms were performed to evaluate left ventricular (LV) dimensions and function. Myocardial MAPK and apoptotic protein levels were measured by Western blot.

Results

OMDM had increased cardiac mass at NB1 compared to controls that normalized at NB21. OSDM demonstrated microsomia with relative sparing of cardiac mass and a dilated cardiomyopathy at NB1. In both models, there was a persistent increase in the HW:BW and significant activation of MAPK and apoptotic pathways at NB21.

Conclusion

The degree of maternal hyperglycemia determines the type of cardiomyopathy seen in the offspring, while resolution of both the hypertrophic and dilated cardiomyopathies is associated with activation of MAPK signaling and apoptotic pathways.
Redefining the expressed prototype SICAvar gene involved in Plasmodium knowlesi antigenic variation
Authors: Lapp Stacey A , Korir Cindy C , Galinski Mary R
Published: August 2009

Background

The SICAvar gene family, expressed at the surface of infected erythrocytes, is critical for antigenic variation in Plasmodium knowlesi. When this family was discovered, a prototypic SICAvar gene was characterized and defined by a 10-exon structure. The predicted 205-kDa protein lacked a convincing signal peptide, but included a series of variable cysteine-rich modules, a transmembrane domain encoded by the penultimate exon, and a cytoplasmic domain encoded by the final highly conserved exon. The 205 SICAvar gene and its family with up to 108 possible family members, was identified prior to the sequencing of the P. knowlesi genome. However, in the published P. knowlesi database this gene remains disjointed in five fragments. This study addresses a number of structural and functional questions that are critical for understanding SICAvar gene expression.

Methods

Database mining, bioinformatics, and traditional genomic and post-genomic experimental methods including proteomic technologies are used here to confirm the genomic context and expressed structure of the prototype 205 SICAvar gene.

Results

This study reveals that the 205 SICAvar gene reported previously to have a 10-exon expressed gene structure has, in fact, 12 exons, with an unusually large and repeat-laden intron separating two newly defined upstream exons and the bona fide 5'UTR from the remainder of the gene sequence. The initial exon encodes a PEXEL motif, which may function to localize the SICA protein in the infected erythrocyte membrane. This newly defined start of the 205 SICAvar sequence is positioned on chromosome 5, over 340 kb upstream from the rest of the telomerically positioned SICAvar gene sequence in the published genome assembly. This study, however, verifies the continuity of these sequences, a 9.5 kb transcript, and provides evidence that the 205 SICAvar gene is located centrally on chromosome 5.

Conclusion

The prototype 205 SICAvar gene has been redefined to have a 12-exon structure. These data are important because they 1) address questions raised in the P. knowlesi genome database regarding SICAvar gene fragments, numbers and structures, 2) show that this prototype gene encodes a PEXEL motif, 3) emphasize the need for further refinement of the P. knowlesi genome data, and 4) retrospectively, provide evidence for recombination within centrally located SICAvar sequences.
A catalytically and genetically optimized β-lactamase-matrix based assay for sensitive, specific, and higher throughput analysis of native henipavirus entry characteristics
Authors: Wolf Mike C , Wang Yao , Freiberg Alexander N , Aguilar Hector C , Holbrook Michael R , Lee Benhur
Published: August 2009

Nipah virus (NiV) and Hendra virus (HeV) are the only paramyxoviruses requiring Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4) containment. Thus, study of henipavirus entry at less than BSL-4 conditions necessitates the use of cell-cell fusion or pseudotyped reporter virus assays. Yet, these surrogate assays may not fully emulate the biological properties unique to the virus being studied. Thus, we developed a henipaviral entry assay based on a β-lactamase-Nipah Matrix (βla-M) fusion protein. We first codon-optimized the bacterial βla and the NiV-M genes to ensure efficient expression in mammalian cells. The βla-M construct was able to bud and form virus-like particles (VLPs) that morphologically resembled paramyxoviruses. βla-M efficiently incorporated both NiV and HeV fusion and attachment glycoproteins. Entry of these VLPs was detected by cytosolic delivery of βla-M, resulting in enzymatic and fluorescent conversion of the pre-loaded CCF2-AM substrate. Soluble henipavirus receptors (ephrinB2) or antibodies against the F and/or G proteins blocked VLP entry. Additionally, a Y105W mutation engineered into the catalytic site of βla increased the sensitivity of our βla-M based infection assays by 2-fold. In toto, these methods will provide a more biologically relevant assay for studying henipavirus entry at less than BSL-4 conditions.
13-cis-retinoic acid re-differentiation therapy and recombinant human thyrotropin-aided radioiodine treatment of non-Functional metastatic thyroid cancer: a single-center, 53-patient phase 2 study
Authors: Handkiewicz-Junak Daria , Roskosz Jozef , Hasse-Lazar Kornelia , Szpak-Ulczok Sylwia , Puch Zbigniew , Kukulska Aleksandra , Olczyk Tomasz , Piela Andrzej , Paliczka-Cieslik Ewa , Jarzab Barbara
Published: August 2009

In 30–50% of patients with metastatic non-medullary thyroid cancer the metastases are not radioiodine-avid and so there is no effective treatment. Retinoids have demonstrated inhibition of thyroid tumor growth and induction of radioiodine uptake. The aim of our study was to assess benefits of the retinoic acid (RA) treatment to re-differentiate non-functional NMTC metastases.

Patients and Methods

In this prospective study, 53 patients with radioiodine non avid metastatic disease (45) or hyperthyroglobulinemia (8) were treated with 13-cis-retinoic acid (13-CRA) [1.0 mg/kg/day over 1st week and then 1.5 mg/kg] for six weeks prior to I-131 treatment performed under rhTSH stimulation. The re-differentiating effect of RA was evaluated by serum thyroglobulin (Tg) monitoring before and after cessation of RA treatment and by qualitative analysis of iodine uptake on the post-therapeutic whole body scan (rxWBS).

Results

13-CRA induced radioiodine uptake in 9 (17%) of patients. In the univariate analysis neither the patient's gender, age, tumor histopathology, uptake in thyroid bed nor time since thyroid cancer diagnosis was associated with results of rxWBS.

41 (77%) patients were evaluable for Tg response before and after to 13-CRA treatment. There was a statistically significant increase in median Tg level (60 v. 90 ng/ml, p < 0.05). There was no difference in Tg increase between scintigraphic responders and non-responders.

13-CRA and RIT was repeated at least once in 8 of 9 scintigraphic responders. None of them showed tumor regression by radiological imaging within 12 months after the first treatment, 4/9 (44%) of them had disease progression.

13-CRA treatment was well-tolerated. All but one patient complained of at least one side effect the most prevalent being lip dryness (98%). All side effects were transient and resolved within 2 weeks after 13-CRA cessation.

Conclusion

Our results show that in patients with non-functional metastases from NMTC, 13-CRA is able to exert some re-differentiation effect by induction of radioiodine uptake in <20% of patients and increase of Tg serum level in about 30% of them. Nevertheless, this does not transfer into clinical benefit as it neither induces measurable tumor response nor prevents disease progression.
Tumor necrosis factor α-induced adipose-related protein expression in experimental arthritis and in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Inoue Asuka , Matsumoto Isao , Tanaka Yoko , Iwanami Keiichi , Kanamori Akihiro , Ochiai Naoyuki , Goto Daisuke , Ito Satoshi , Sumida Takayuki
Published: August 2009

Introduction

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) plays a pivotal role in rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, the mechanism of action of TNFα antagonists in RA is poorly defined. Immunization of DBA/1 mice with glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (GPI) induces severe acute arthritis. This arthritis can be controlled by TNFα antagonists, suggesting similar etiology to RA. In this study, we explored TNFα-related mechanisms of arthritis.

Methods

First, we performed GeneChip analysis using splenocytes of mice with GPI-induced arthritis. Expression of TNFα-induced adipose-related protein (TIARP) mRNA and protein in spleens, joints and lymph nodes was evaluated, and fluctuation of TIARP mRNA was analyzed after administration of anti-TNFα monoclonal antibody (mAb). Localization of TIARP in spleen and joints was also explored. Six-transmembrane epithelial antigen of the prostate (STEAP) families of proteins, the human ortholog of TIARP gene, were also evaluated in human peripheral blood mononucleocytes and synovium.

Results

Among the arrayed TNFα-related genes, the expression of TIARP mRNA was the highest (more than 20 times the control). TIARP mRNA was detected specifically in joints and spleens of arthritic mice, and their levels in the synovia correlated with severity of joint swelling. Treatment with anti-TNF mAb significantly reduced TIARP mRNA expression in splenocytes. Among the splenocytes, CD11b+ cells were the main source of TIARP mRNA. Immunohistochemistry showed that TIARP protein was mainly localized in hyperplastic synovium. Among the STEAP family of proteins, STEAP4 was highly upregulated in joints of patients with RA and especially co-localized with CD68+ macrophages.

Conclusions

The results shed light on the new mechanism of action of TNFα antagonists in autoimmune arthritis, suggesting that TIARP plays an important role in inflammatory arthritis, through the regulation of inflammatory cytokines.
Three-Dimensional Prostate Mapping Biopsy Has a Potentially Significant Impact on Prostate Cancer Management
Authors: Onik Gary , Miessau Matthew , Bostwick David G.
Published: August 2009

Purpose

To compare a new staging, three-dimensional prostate mapping biopsy (3D-PMB) method with traditional transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) biopsy and assess its possible impact on patient management.

Patients and Methods

One hundred eighty patients with unilateral cancer on TRUS biopsy, who were considering conservative management, underwent restaging with 3D-PMB. The 3D-PMB was carried out transperineally using a brachytherapy grid under TRUS guidance. Biopsies were taken every 5 mm throughout the volume of the prostate, and labeling of the specimen coordinates allowed accurate reconstruction of the location and extent of a patient's cancer.

Results

3D-PMB obtained a median of 50 cores (standard deviation, ± 20.61). One hundred ten patients (61.1%) were positive bilaterally, and 41 patients (22.7%) had Gleason scores increased to 7 or higher. Thirty-six patients had negative results on 3D-PMB. Complications of 3D-PMB were self-limited and included 14 patients (7.7%) who required short-term indwelling catheter drainage and two patients with hematuria, one of whom required overnight bladder irrigation.

Conclusion

3D-PMB is a transperineal biopsy that can be safely used to accurately stage prostate cancer patients. At the present time, when patient management is increasingly based on the extent and characteristics of prostate cancer, 3D-PMB could have a profound effect on patient management.
Mechanisms by which Bak and Bax permeabilise mitochondria during apoptosis
Authors: Dewson Grant , Kluck Ruth M.
Published: August 2009

Mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilisation (MOMP) is the point of no return in many forms of apoptotic cell death. The killing effect of MOMP is twofold; it both initiates a proteolytic cascade of pro-apoptotic enzymes and damages mitochondrial function. Accordingly, prevention of MOMP can rescue cells from death. It is clear that either Bak or Bax, which are Bcl-2 family members, are required for MOMP to occur; however, the pore complexes that are formed by Bak and Bax remain poorly defined in terms of their composition, size, number and structure, as well as the mechanism by which they are regulated by other Bcl-2 family members. We recently reported that a key step leading to Bak homo-oligomerisation following an apoptotic stimulus involves transient exposure of the Bak BH3 domain before it binds to the hydrophobic groove of another activated Bak molecule to form a novel symmetric dimer. To form the higher-order oligomers that probably constitute the apoptotic pore complex, Bak dimers then interact via regions away from the BH3 domain and groove. The BH3:groove interaction within Bak homodimers supports a general model to explain the associations between Bcl-2 family members. In this Commentary, we discuss the implications of these findings for the regulation of apoptosis by Bcl-2 family proteins.
Synthesis of Bicompartmental Ag/Cu Nanoparticles Using a Two-step Polyol Process
Authors: Tsuji Masaharu , Hikino Sachie , Tanabe Ryuichi , Sano Yoshiyuki
Published: August 2009

Bicompartmental (BC) Ag/Cu nanoparticles were synthesized using a two-step polyol reduction process. Initially, Ag nanoparticles with an average diameter of 21±3 nm were prepared from AgNO3 using a microwave (MW)–polyol method. Then, Cu(OAc)2·H2O was added dropwise under MW or oil-bath heating. The formation of BC Ag/Cu nanoparticles with an average size of 29±6 nm in high yield (98%) was confirmed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopic (EDS) measurements.
In Situ Photoluminescence Spectroelectrochemistry of Single-walled Carbon Nanotubes with Nine Different Chiral Indices
Authors: Tanaka Yasuhiko , Niidome Yasuro , Nakashima Naotoshi
Published: August 2009

In situ photoluminescence spectroelectrochemistry was carried out for single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) having nine different chiral indices and their oxidation potentials have been determined based on the analysis using the Nernst equation.
Stereocontrolled Synthesis of the DEFG-ring Skeleton of Gambieric Acids
Authors: Fuwa Haruhiko , Noji Sayaka , Sasaki Makoto
Published: August 2009

A stereocontrolled entry to the DEFG-ring skeleton of gambieric acids, potent antifungal polycyclic ether natural products, has been developed based on the Suzuki–Miyaura coupling as the fragment assembly process and the use of an oxepane as a template for controlling the C25 stereogenic center.
Comments on the Methods of Characterization of Textural Properties of Solids from Gas Adsorption Data
Authors: Marcilla Antonio , Gomez-Siurana Amparo , José Ma Muñoz , Valdés Francisco Javier
Published: August 2009

Certain drawbacks of several of the conventional methods of analyzing Type I and II adsorption isotherms frequently used to characterize the structural properties of adsorbent materials have been demonstrated. A simple and flexible procedure, based on an equation combining the Dubinin equation to account for the micropore contribution and the BET equation to account for the non-porous contribution, has been proposed which is capable of simultaneously correlating the adsorption isotherm up to relative pressures of 0.4. Examples are presented showing that the suggested procedure provides a proper interpretation of the data coherent with the origin of the samples and avoids the misinterpretation that could arise from the application of the conventional methods.
A Comparative Study of the Sorption of Cd(II) and Pb(II) Ions from Aqueous Solution by Local Bentonite and Clinoptilolite
Authors: Faghihian H. , Nejati-Yazdinejad M.
Published: August 2009

Local clay (bentonite) and a zeolite (clinoptilolite) have been characterized and used for the removal of Pb(II) and Cd(II) ions from aqueous solutions using batch sorption experiments. Parameters such as the equilibrium time, the effect of pH and temperature were studied. The sorption capacities of the two sorbents were calculated by fitting the Langmuir adsorption model to the experimental data points. Metal ion sorption by zeolite [q0 Pb(II) = 0.515 mmol/g, q0 Cd(II) = 0.392 mmol/g] was higher than that by bentonite [q0 Pb(II) = 0.436 mmol/g, q0 Cd(II) = 0.381 mmol/g]. The removal of Pb(II) ions was much greater than that of Cd(II) ions under identical experimental conditions. The negative values of the Gibbs' free energy change (ΔG0) demonstrate the spontaneous nature of the sorption process with both sorbents, while the positive values of the enthalpy change (ΔH0) indicate that the sorption process was endothermic in nature.
Biosorption of Phenolic Compounds by Trametes Versicolor Polyporus Fungus
Authors: Kumar Nadavala Siva , Boddu Veera M. , Krishnaiah Abburi
Published: August 2009

The use of non-living Trametes versicolor polyporus fungus to remove phenol, 2-chlorophenol (2-CP) and 4-chlorophenol (4-CP) from water under equilibrium and column flow experimental conditions was evaluated. The biomass was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The adsorption capacity of the biosorbent was investigated as a function of pH, contact time, initial concentration of adsorbate and amount of biomass employed. The adsorption process followed the pseudo-first-order kinetic model. The equilibrium data were analyzed in terms of the Freundlich, Langmuir and D–R adsorption isotherm models. The maximum monolayer adsorption capacity of Trametes versicolor polyporus fungus for phenol, 2-CP and 4-CP was found to be 50 mg/g, 86 mg/g and 112 mg/g, respectively. Desorption of phenolic compounds was achieved using 0.1 M NaOH solution. The experimental results demonstrated that the Trametes versicolor polyporus fungus could be used as a sorbent for immobilizing phenolic compounds.
A Simple Way of Calculating the Change in the Gibbs' Free Energy of Ion Adsorption Reactions
Authors: Xiaofu Wu , Fang Zhao , Mingli Chen , Zhihui Ji , Qun Ma
Published: August 2009

Adsorption experiments of Zn2+ and Cd2+ ions from aqueous solutions onto vermiculite were conducted to test the applicability of two basic functions derived for calculating the change in the Gibbs' free energy (ΔG0) and the chemical potential (Δμ) between the initial and equilibrium states in ion adsorption systems. The functions were deduced on the basis of the thermodynamic principle that the chemical potentials of the reactants and products of a physicochemical reaction should be equal in the equilibrium state and, consequently, the change in the Gibbs' free energy between the initial and equilibrium states of the reaction should be equal to the sum of the initial molar quantity of each reactant multiplied by its change in chemical potential. The results of the analysis conducted indicate that the two functions considered could well be used not only for calculating ΔG0 and Δμ but also for determining the adsorption capacity of an adsorbent under the conditions considered.
Adsorptive Accumulation of Cd(II), Co(II), Cu(II), Pb(II) and Ni(II) Ions from Water onto Kaolinite: Influence of Acid Activation
Authors: Bhattacharyya Krishna G. , Gupta Susmita Sen
Published: August 2009

Naturally occurring kaolinite and its acid-activated form were used to separate the toxic metal ions Cd(II), Co(II), Cu(II), Pb(II) and Ni(II) from water by adsorption. Kaolinite was treated with 0.25 M H2SO4 to obtain the acid-activated form. Adsorption onto the calcined forms of the clays was influenced by pH, the solution concentration of metal ions, the amount of adsorbent employed, the interaction time and the temperature. The process followed second-order kinetics very closely. Isotherm-fitting procedures showed compliance with the Langmuir and Freundlich equations suggesting the involvement of strong interactions. The Langmuir monolayer capacity showed some increase between kaolinite and the acid-activated form [Cd(II): 9.9 and 11.4 mg/g; Co(II): 11.2 and 12.1 mg/g; Cu(II): 9.2 and 10.1 mg/g; Pb(II): 11.1 and 12.1 mg/g; and Ni(II): 10.4 and 11.9 mg/g]. The thermodynamics of the rate processes showed that the adsorption of Co(II), Cd(II) and Cu(II) ions was endothermic and accompanied by an increase in both the entropy and the Gibbs' free energy. However, in contrast, the adsorption of Pb(II) and Ni(II) ions was exothermic with a decrease in entropy and an appreciable decrease in the Gibbs' free energy. The results have established that kaolinite and its acid-activated form show a good potential as adsorbents for Cd(II), Co(II), Cu(II), Pb(II) and Ni(II) ions from aqueous media.
Equilibrium Study of the Sorption of a Sulphur-Containing Amino Acid by Clinoptilolite
Authors: Faghihian H. , Nejati-Yazdinejad M.
Published: August 2009

Amino acids have been extensively used in several processes in the pharmaceutical and food industries. However, treatments for the recovery and re-use of the wastewaters generated from these processes are sparse and little known. The aim of the present work was the study of the influence of different variables on the sorption of L-cysteine from aqueous solution onto the mineral clinoptilolite. For this purpose, L-cysteine (Cys) was sorbed by clinoptilolite (Clino) from aqueous solutions of variable concentrations at various temperatures and pH values. The materials employed were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (IR) and thermal analysis (TG, DTG and DSC) techniques. The results indicated that the sorption process depended strongly on the pH, temperature and concentration of amino acid. L-Cysteine was specifically sorbed onto the surface sites of clinoptilolite probably via its NH+3 moiety. The pH dependence suggests that these sites may be silanolate groups (≡Si – O−). Analysis of the experimental data obtained for the sorption isotherms via the Langmuir model gave a good fit. The calculated thermodynamic parameters (Δ;H0, Δ;S0 and Δ;G0) indicated that the sorption process was exothermic.
Equilibrium and Kinetic Studies of the Adsorption of Zn(II) Ions onto Natural and Activated Kaolinites
Authors: Kul Ali Riza , Caliskan Necla
Published: August 2009

The removal of Zn(II) ions from aqueous solution was studied using natural, thermally-activated and acid-activated kaolinite samples at different temperatures. The linear Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin– Radushkevich (D–R) adsorption equations were applied to describe the equilibrium isotherms. The Langmuir constants for natural kaolinite were found to be negative whereas, for the other samples, the isotherm models gave a good fit. In addition, the pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order models were used to determine the kinetic data. The experimental data were well fitted by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Thermodynamic parameters such as the enthalpy (ΔH0), Gibbs' free energy (ΔG0) and entropy (ΔS0) were calculated for natural, thermally-activated and acid-activated kaolinite. These values showed that the adsorption of Zn(II) ions onto activated kaolinite was controlled by a physical mechanism and occurred spontaneously. The process of adsorption was favoured at high temperatures, with the adsorption capacity of the acid-activated kaolinite being greater relative to that of natural and thermally-activated kaolinite at various temperatures.
Design of Lightweight Floor System for Optimized Vibration Comfort
Authors: Zegers S.F.A.J.G.
Published: August 2009

A major trend in current building practice is to reduce the weight of structures. The main incentives for this trend are the scarcity of materials and the rising costs of labor and materials. This is one of the goals of IFD (Industrial, Flexible and Demountable) way of building which is the prevalent Dutch approach to sustainable building. One of the heaviest and most complex parts of a building is the floor. Therefore the focus of this research is to develop a lightweight floor system. However, these lightweight floor systems are sensitive to vibrations and are therefore, without taking measures, regarded less comfortable than heavier, more traditional floor systems.

This paper describes structural measures to increase vibration comfort. A quality measure, based on the velocity of the vibration, is used to compare the comfort value of a structure subjected to vibrations. This quality measure includes human sensitivity for vibration that is frequency dependent. The structural measures include intelligent coupling of structural elements and support conditions. A detailed study on the effects of these structural measures and a design principle with improved vibration comfort will be presented.
Optimization of Equipment Allocation and Sound-Barriers Shape in a Multi-Noise Plant by Using Simulated Annealing
Authors: Chiu Min-Chie
Published: August 2009

Because high noise levels in industrial plants can be injurious to workers and lead not only to psychological but also to physiological ailments, noise control in factories becomes essential. In order to overcome the noise impact emitted from a multi-noise plant, a sound barrier, a popular noise control strategy, has been used in the industrial field for a long time. Yet, the traditional method in the design of a sound barrier is time-consuming. Recently, to economically improve acoustical performance, a new strategy (flexible allocation) is applied; however, the acoustical performance is still insufficient. In order to quickly, efficiently, and economically control the noise level specified by the Environmental Protection Administration, interest in shape optimization of a sound barrier in conjunction with equipment allocation around the plant's boundary is rising.

In this paper, the novel technique of simulated annealing (SA) in conjunction with the theoretical sound propagation model and the method of minimized variation square is applied in the following numerical optimizations. Before a sound barrier is optimized, the sound propagation from one single noise is tested and compared with the experimental data for the purpose of accuracy within the mathematical model. Moreover, three kinds of sound barrier systems have been fully discussed and optimally shaped by the SA. The results reveal that the sound barrier can be properly shaped. Consequently, this paper may provide an efficient and rapid methodology in the shape-optimized work for a sound barrier installed in a multi-equipment plant.
Evaluation of Acoustical Environments in Eating Establishments
Authors: Hodgson Murray , Razavi Zohreh , Steininger Gavin
Published: August 2009

The acoustical environments, and the acoustical conditions to which customers and workers are exposed, were evaluated in ten existing eating establishments. The perceived quality of the EE acoustical environments for customers and employees, and how respondent-related factors and the EE acoustical characteristics affect it, were investigated. These objectives were achieved by way of physical and acoustical measurements, and customer and employee questionnaires and their statistical analysis. Summary statistics, and the results of correlation and stratification analyses of the data, are reported and interpreted. A simple regression model for the reduction of customer enjoyment of the dining experience is presented. Lessons learned for EE design are discussed.
Design and Acoustic Performance of a Drum Practice Music Studio
Authors: Emslie Ross , Hanson David
Published: August 2009

Minimising the impact of music practice and “Garage Band” performances upon neighbours in a residential area is challenging in terms of noise emissions from musical instruments, but particularly so when drums and percussion instruments are involved. Normal residential building façades and roofing designs offer limited low frequency noise attenuation and domestic building construction methods can severely compromise the performance of seemingly adequate partition construction details. This paper presents the results of design, construction and testing activities for a private drum studio that was required to meet stringent boundary noise emission targets in order to comply with local council Development Application requirements. High transmission loss lightweight partition test data is provided for the as-built final installation, along with details of cavity absorption, panel damping and vibration isolation treatments that contributed to maximising façade sound reduction performance. A range of room internal absorption treatments, including low frequency “tube traps”, corner traps and diffusers were successfully employed to achieve compliance with BBC recommended reverberation times for small recording studios
Addressing the Problem of Acoustic Comfort in Attached English Homes through Effective Communication of Performance
Authors: Hanson Robert
Published: August 2009

Building regulations in England have consistently failed to ensure that domestic dwellings are built to standards where occupants are satisfied with the level of sound insulation. Recent judgments have left owner/occupiers exposed to noise without a legal remedy. If occupants complain about noise they risk reducing the selling price of that dwelling. Dwellings are often marketed on visual aspects rather than performance, people ‘view’ property but they ‘test-drive’ cars. Lessons from the car industry suggest how a media focus on testing and comparing performance can help drive up standards of features that are not immediately visible such as safety and a reduction carbon dioxide emissions without detracting from other aspects of performance such as acceleration and maximum speed. This paper presents results from surveys of both builders and occupants to show their current attitudes towards sound insulation and regulation. Drawing upon empirical evidence from other industries this paper puts the case that effective rating systems improve performance of products for consumers more effectively than regulation. Looking at successful rating systems in other areas and current noise/acoustic comfort ratings, which have been in existence for over a decade, this paper asks the questions what makes a rating system successful? and what should a noise/acoustic comfort rating system look like today?
Quantifying the Double Slope Effect in Coupled Volume Room Systems
Authors: Bradley David T. , Wang Lily M.
Published: August 2009

Coupled volume spaces are typically defined as a main volume connected to an auxiliary volume through an acoustically transparent aperture. Given certain architectural parameters, coupled volumes can exhibit a non-exponential sound energy decay, referred to in this paper as double slope effect (DSE). This paper provides an overview and comparison of several quantifiers of DSE. Four numeric DSE quantifiers, T30/T15, LDT/EDT, Decay Ratio, and ΔdB were used to analyze the energy decays produced in a computational model of an existing coupled volume concert hall. Each quantifier's ability to indicate changes in DSE was determined through comparative analysis. LDT/EDT was found to differentiate most between the levels of DSE in the sample decay curves. T30/T15 was also able to demonstrate changes in DSE, although not with the same level of sensitivity as LDT/EDT. Decay Ratio and ΔdB as determined from Bayesian analysis results did not indicate any DSE across the four cases studied; further research is recommended on applying Bayesian analysis to decay curves from realistic coupled volume scenarios.
Evaluation of Background Sound Quality Using NCB
Authors: Shalkouhi P. Jafari , Nassiri P. , Abbaspour M. , Sekhavatjou M.S.
Published: August 2009

Background noise level in buildings is an important issue which can affect task or perception of people. Tangency rating methods like NC, PNC and NR give little indication of the sound quality but criterions such as NCB, RC and RC Mark II are able to assess sound quality. Therefore, the goal of this article was to evaluate background sound quality through determination of NCB in different parts of the Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Campus, Tehran, Iran. Background noise level in 40 spaces was measured through octave band frequency analysis in summer and winter. The results indicated that none of the spaces had balanced noise level. In addition NCB rating in the majority of spaces exceeded ANSI S12.2-1995 standard. Strong correlation between PNC and NCB rating indicated that PNC as a tangency system can represent speech interference level (SIL) acceptably. Previous work by others suggests that NC does not correlate well with NCB. Nevertheless, PNC curves have never become widely used.
A Cyber-Enabled Collaborative Design Studio
Authors: Muramoto Katsuhiko , Jemtrud Michael , Kumar Sonali , Balakrishnan Bimal , Wiley Danielle
Published: August 2009

The research project investigates the use of a network-enabled platform involving a combination of technologies. As a preliminary report on a proof-of-concept design studio conducted in 2007 between Carleton University and Pennsylvania State University, the paper first describes the implementation of this network-centric collaborative design platform. The report articulates the “staging” of the conditions of possibility for a dynamic interplay between technological mediation and the reality of making, then compares the use of high bandwidth technology with customized symmetrical toolsets in the telecollaborative environment, versus commercial toolsets deployed over moderate bandwidth connections. In each setting, the collaborative environment is assessed according to issues encountered by students and design outcomes. The effectiveness of the digitally mediated collaborative studio is also gauged in terms of student reaction to the learning process via feedback surveys and questionnaires.
Citizen Participatory Design Method Using VR and a Blog as a Media in the Process
Authors: Fukuda Tomohiro , Kaga Atsuko , Izumi Hideaki , Terashima Takanori
Published: August 2009

This research concerned the establishment of a citizen participatory design method using VR (Virtual Reality) and CGM (Consumer Generated Media) as design media or a communication media in the design process. For this, problems in the citizen participatory design are addressed, and the continuous study method using VR and a blog is shown. Then, evaluation is conducted by considering an actual design project as a case study. Furthermore, VR functions needed through the case study are developed. Using this method, a small patio on which parasols were permanently and lawfully set up on a road lot was completed.
To Colour the Virtual World - Difficulties in Visualizing Spatial Colour Appearance in Virtual Environments
Authors: Stahre Beata , Billger Monica , Anter Karin Fridell
Published: August 2009

This paper discusses the problems of visualizing colour appearance in an interactive virtual environment (VE) from the viewpoint of practice based architectural research. The discussion is based upon the research information project Virtual Colour Laboratory (VCL), the aim of which is to visually present and demonstrate existing research results on spatial colour phenomena for educational purposes, in the shape of a software application. During the work on this project, various problems connected to the visualization of colour appearance have emerged which are discussed in relation to current research on spatial experience and visual appearance in VEs. The aim of the paper is to focus on the importance of colour appearance in digital modelling as well as to highlight the problems of visualizing colour appearance interactively. The term colour appearance is used here as a general concept for the perceived colour of a surface or object.
Parametric Development of Problem Descriptions
Authors: Hudson Roly
Published: August 2009

This paper addresses the development of parametric models in contemporary architectural practice. A parametric model can be regarded as a representation of a solution space and in order to structure this, a description of the problem is required. Architectural design tasks are typically ill structured, the goals may not be defined and the means unknown. Moving from an incomplete problem description to a functional parametric model is a difficult task. In this paper the aim is to demonstrate that through a combination of knowledge acquisition and capture a parametric model can develop from an incomplete problem description. This demonstration draws on existing strands of design theory which are then used to outline a theoretical framework. This framework is then used to examine a case study of a live project and practical examples of the described theory in action are given. The practical observations are the result of a case study involving the author as a participant and observer working with Populous to develop a cladding geometry solution for Lansdowne Road Stadium in Dublin (now know as the AVIVA STADIUM).