bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remote-sensing techniques for analysing landslide kinematics: a review
Authors: Delacourt Christophe , Allemand Pascal , Berthier Etienne , Raucoules Daniel , Casson Bérangère , Grandjean Philippe , Pambrun Claude , Varel Eric
Published: May 2007

Surface displacement field of landslides is a key parameter to access to their geometries and mechanical properties. Surface displacements can be calculated using remote-sensing methods such as interferometry for radar data and image correlation for optical data. These methods have been elaborated this last decade and successfully applied on sensors (radar, cameras, terrestrial 3D laser scanner imaging) either attached to space or aerial platforms such as satellites, planes, and unmanned radio-controlled platforms (drones and helicopters) or settled at fixed positions emplaced in the front of landslides. This paper reviews the techniques of image analysis (interferometry and optical data correlation) to measure displacements and examines the performance of each type of platforms. Examples of applications of these techniques in French South Alps are shown. Depending on the landslide characteristics (exposure conditions, size, velocity) as well as the goal of the study (operational or scientific purpose), one or a combination of several techniques and data (characterized by several resolution, accuracy, covered surface, revisiting time) have to be used. Radar satellite data processed with differential interferometric or PS methods are mainly suitable for scientific purposes due to various application limitations in mountainous area. Optical satellite and aerial images can be used for scientific studies at fairly high resolution but are strongly dependant on atmospheric conditions. Platforms and sensors such as drone, fixed camera, fixed radar and Lidar have the advantage of high adaptability. They can be used to obtain very high resolution and precise 3D data (of centimetric accuracy) suitable for both scientific and operational purposes.
Respirometric assessment of biodegradation characteristics of the scientific pitfalls of wastewaters
Authors: Orhon D. , Insel G. , Karahan O.
Published: May 2007

This paper provides an overview of common problems encountered when using oxygen uptake rate (OUR) measurements for the assessment of wastewater characteristics and process kinetics. Emphasis is placed upon pitfalls that would lead to significant errors. It covers model dependency of the OUR measurements and the need to select appropriate models; interpretation of OUR perturbations as a way to identify new model components and processes; the need for simultaneous observation of relevant model components and multicomponent modelling for appropriate evaluation of OUR measurements; parameter identifiability problems and the effect of active biomass concentration and the endogenous decay rate on model simulation and calibration. Relevant experimental OUR data from previous studies are presented to illustrate and underline common scientific pitfalls.
Modelling of biological nitrogen removal during treatment of piggery wastewater
Authors: Béline F. , Boursier H. , Guiziou F. , Paul E.
Published: May 2007

During this study, a mathematical model simulating piggery wastewater treatment was developed, with the objective of process optimisation. To achieve this, the effect of temperature and free ammonia concentration on the nitrification rate were experimentally studied using respirometry. The maximum growth rates obtained were higher for ammonium-oxidising biomass than for nitrite-oxidising biomass for the temperatures above 20 °C; values at 35 °C were equal to 1.9 and 1.35 day−1, respectively. No inhibition of nitrification was observed for free ammonia concentrations up to 50 mgN/L. Using these data with others experimental data obtained from a pilot-scale reactor to treat piggery wastewater, a model based on a modified version of the ASM1 was developed and calibrated. In order to model the nitrite accumulation observed, the ASM1 model was extended with a two-step nitrification and denitrification including nitrite as intermediate. Finally, the produced model called PiWaT1 demonstrated a good fit with the experimental data. In addition to the temperature, oxygen concentration was identified as an important factor influencing the nitrite accumulation during nitrification. Even if some improvements of the model are still necessary, this model can already be used for process improvement.
Model-based design of an agricultural biogas plant: application of Anaerobic Digestion Model No.1 for an improved four chamber scheme
Authors: Wett B. , Schoen M. , Phothilangka P. , Wackerle F. , Insam H.
Published: May 2007

Different digestion technologies for various substrates are addressed by the generic process description of Anaerobic Digestion Model No. 1. In the case of manure or agricultural wastes a priori knowledge about the substrate in terms of ADM1 compounds is lacking and influent characterisation becomes a major issue. The actual project has been initiated for promotion of biogas technology in agriculture and for expansion of profitability also to rather small capacity systems. In order to avoid costly individual planning and installation of each facility a standardised design approach needs to be elaborated. This intention pleads for bio kinetic modelling as a systematic tool for process design and optimisation. Cofermentation under field conditions was observed, quality data and flow data were recorded and mass flow balances were calculated. In the laboratory different substrates have been digested separately in parallel under specified conditions. A configuration of four ADM1 model reactors was set up. Model calibration identified disintegration rate, decay rates for sugar degraders and half saturation constant for sugar as the three most sensitive parameters showing values (except the latter) about one order of magnitude higher than default parameters. Finally, the model is applied to the comparison of different reactor configurations and volume partitions. Another optimisation objective is robustness and load flexibility, i.e. the same configuration should be adaptive to different load situations only by a simple recycle control in order to establish a standardised design.
Evaluation of the reject waters from co-digestion of solid wastes from agro-industries in a municipal WWTP
Authors: Nowak O. , Melcher R. , Enderle P.
Published: May 2007

Overcapacities of anaerobic digesters at municipal WWTPs are frequently used for the treatment of organic wastes in order to increase the biogas production. However, “co-digestion” of organic wastes leads to additional nitrogen loading and to additional loads of non-biodegradable COD. The effects of (co-) digestion of organic wastes from agro-industries (slaughterhouses, dairies and leather industry) on the wastewater cycle have been evaluated in full-scale investigations at Leoben WWTP with a capacity of 90,000 pe where the methane production was increased from 700 to more than 1,700 Nm3 CH4 per day. For this evaluation, mass balances for COD and nitrogen have been applied to estimate the fluxes of these substances. Application of this method is described in detail. As the additional loadings, it was found that related to methane production less nitrogen is released from the organic wastes than from the waste sludge. While the ammonia nitrogen load in the effluent from sludge digestion was about 100 g NH4-N per Nm3 of CH4 produced, in the effluent from the digestion of organic wastes only 70 g NH4-N/Nm3 CH4 were found. The decrease in the COD removal efficiency after digestion of the organic wastes started was not regarded as significant enough to be seen as a consequence of the treatment of external substrate.
Fenton and photo-Fenton treatment of a synthetic tannin used in leather tannery: a multi-approach study
Authors: Lofrano G. , Meriç S. , Belgiorno V. , Nikolaou A. , Napoli R.M.A.
Published: May 2007

The aim of this work was to compare the behaviour of Fenton and photo-Fenton (UV-A, UV-C) processes to treat synthetic tannin (syntan) used in leather tannery which is one of the most polluting industries, releasing many xenobiotics. Both oxidation processes were performed at pH 3.0 and temperature 40–45 °C, which is the original temperature of the re-tanning process, in synthetic solutions containing 100 and 300 mg/L of COD equivalent of syntan. The efficiency of the applied oxidation processes was monitored by chemical oxygen demand (COD), oxidation redox potential (ORP) and aromaticity (UV280) and double bond (UV254) absorbance measurements. Acute toxicity test on Daphnia magna was performed to monitor toxicity in untreated and treated syntan solution. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was applied to identify by-products of partial oxidation occurring in treated samples. The effective ratio of H2O2/FeSO4 for photo-Fenton processes was found to be feasible in terms of reagents used in the process.
Use of agro-food wastewaters for the optimisation of the denitrification process
Authors: Rodríguez L. , Villaseñor J. , Fernández F.J.
Published: May 2007

The aim of this work was to study the feasibility of the denitrification process enhancement, in the Ciudad Real (Spain) WWTP, by dosing agro-food wastewaters generated nearby the city. The studied agro-food wastewaters were characterised by a high COD and low nutrients concentration. The denitrification rates with these wastewaters were lower than those obtained either with acetate or urban sewage, however the dose of agro-food wastewaters raised significantly the denitrification capacity in the WWTP because of the significant increase of easily biodegradable substrates in the wastewater. From the laboratory NUR batch test it was observed that the best agro-food wastewater to enhance the denitrification process was that coming from tomato processing, which presented an average denitrification rate of 1.9 mg NOX-N/(g VSS·h) and an average denitrification yield of 0.2 mg NOX-N/mg COD. The viability of the use of tomato processing wastewater was checked in a pilot plant optimised for urban sewage treatment with biological nutrient removal. The optimum dose, 5.9 mg COD/mg NOX-N, was applied and 99% of the nitrate was removed from the wastewater without influencing negatively either the COD or P effluent concentrations.
Strategy for olive mill wastewater treatment and reuse with a sewage plant in an arid region
Authors: Boukchina R. , Choi E. , Kim S. , Yu Y.B. , Cheung Y.J.
Published: May 2007

This study was conducted to evaluate the treatability of OMW (olive mill wastewater) with sewage and sewage sludge, which could supplement nutrients and microbes required for OMW treatment and reduce its possible toxicity. The amount of OMW added to an aeration tank was based on the loading difference between the designed and actual COD loads, while the amount added to anaerobic digestion for energy recovery was determined by CH4 production. The COD removal efficiencies were 70–85% for both systems. Compost of OMW with dried sewage sludge also showed a similar temperature profile without OMW addition. This strongly suggested that OMW can be treated at a sewage plant without pretreatment and the treated effluent can be reused in irrigation for an arid region.
Oxidative processes for olive mill wastewater treatment
Authors: Bettazzi E. , Caretti C. , Caffaz S. , Azzari E. , Lubello C.
Published: May 2007

The present work describes an experimental study carried out in order to investigate the efficiency and feasibility of physical (lime coagulation) and advanced oxidation processes (Ozone and Fenton's process) for olive oil mill wastewater treatment. Particular attention was paid to the degradation of both organic and phenolic compounds. Lime coagulation reaches maximum removal at a pH of 12, with a TP (total polyphenols) and COD reduction of 37 and 26%, respectively. Ozone oxidation is also pH-dependent, showing the higher removal efficiency (91% for TP and 19% for COD) with an initial pH value of 12. Experimental results show a lower efficiency of Fenton's process than ozone in TP removal, reaching a maximum value of 60%. Oxidation trials carried out on gallic and p-coumaric synthetic solutions confirmed ozone and Fenton's efficiency at degrading phenolic compounds. Biological trials, both aerobic and anaerobic, highlighted a significant increase of biodegradability of treated OMW samples if compared to the untreated ones. Respirometric tests showed an increase in BOD of about 20% and anaerobic batch tests provided a methane production up to eight times higher.
Respirometric assessment of biodegradation for acrylic fibre-based carpet finishing wastewaters
Authors: Yıldız G. , Insel G. , Cokgor E.U. , Orhon D.
Published: May 2007

The paper evaluates biodegradation characteristics of wastewaters generated from acrylic fibre-based carpet processing and manufacturing. It involves detailed characterisation, respirometric modelling and kinetic description of dyeing and softening wastewater streams and the composite effluent. The wastewaters exhibit different COD content and fractionation. The resulting composite effluent has a total COD of 775 mgL−1, predominantly soluble and with a biodegradable fraction of 86%. In respirometric studies, the OUR profiles can only be calibrated with a dual hydrolysis model with rates significantly slower compared to domestic sewage and other textile plant effluents. Kinetic information derived from the experiments is applied for the conceptual evaluation of the treatability of the composite wastewater using two different continuous-flow activated sludge configurations.
Comparison of electrocoagulation, coagulation and the Fenton process for the treatment of reactive dyebath effluent
Authors: Kabdaşlı I. , Arslan-Alaton I. , Vardar B. , Tünay O.
Published: May 2007

In this paper, experimental studies were performed on a simulated reactive dyebath effluent to compare coagulation-flocculation and Fenton's oxidation with electrocoagulation using stainless steel (SS 304) and aluminium electrodes in terms of colour and COD removals as well as AOX formation potential and improvement of biological treatability. Results have indicated that FeCl3 and alum coagulation had little effect on colour removal whereas comparable colour removal efficiencies with those of electrocoagulation with steel electrodes and Fenton's oxidation were attained by FeSO4 coagulation. Almost complete colour removals accompanied with 77% COD abatement were obtained by both electrocoagulation with steel electrodes and Fenton's oxidation under optimised reaction conditions. Although electrocoagulation with aluminium electrodes yielded very limited colour removal and produced a high amount of sludge upon extended reaction time, this application brought about a marked improvement in biodegradability.
Microbial population dynamics in a thermophilic methane digester fed with garbage
Authors: Cheon J. , Hong F. , Hidaka T. , Koshikawa H. , Tsuno H.
Published: May 2007

The diversity of microbial communities in three full-scale thermophilic anaerobic digesters which treated garbage, sewage sludge and livestock wastes (hereafter called TGD, TSD and TLD, respectively) was investigated using 16S rDNA clone libraries in triplicate. The population dynamics of TGD were also studied. The purposes were to show the microbial diversity in each reactor and to suggest which key microbes in a thermophilic methane digester fed with garbage, including a check of reproducibility and the suggestion of an error range in this molecular biology method. 736 clones were identified, and the maximum error was estimated to be around ±10% for the same OTU (operational taxonomic unit) and for most detected OTUs. The most frequently detected OTU shows a close relationship to Uncultured bacterium clone MBA08,Unidentified bacterium clone TUG22 and Uncultured archaeal symbiont PA204 in TGD, TSD and TLD, respectively. The microbial population dynamics in TGD were studied over a period of 90 days, and the occupying ratios of Bacillus infernus and Methanothermobacter wolfeii were shown to change with the change in VFA concentration. From the dynamic change and characteristics of the microbes, it is concluded that Bacillus infernus and Methanothermobacter wolfeii played an important role and were recommended as key microbes in TGD.
Coupled anaerobic–aerobic treatment of whey wastewater in a sequencing batch reactor: proof of concept
Authors: Frigon J.C. , Bruneau T. , Moletta R. , Guiot S.R.
Published: May 2007

A proof of concept was performed in order to verify if the coupling of anaerobic and aerobic conditions inside the same digester could efficiently treat a reconstituted whey wastewater at 21 °C. The sequencing batch reactor (SBR) cycles combined initial anaerobic phase and final aerobic phase with reduced aeration. A series of 24 h cycles in 0.5 L digesters, with four different levels of oxygenation (none, 54, 108 and 182 mgO2 per gram of chemical oxygen demand (COD)), showed residual soluble chemical oxygen demand (sCOD) of 683±46, 720±33, 581±45, 1,239±15 mg L−1, respectively. Acetate and hydrogen specific activities were maintained for the anaerobic digester, but decreased by 10–25% for the acetate and by 20–50% for the hydrogen, in the coupled digesters. The experiment was repeated using 48 h cycles with limited aeration during 6 or 16 hours at 54 and 108 mgO2gCOD−1initial, displaying residual sCOD of 177±43, 137±38, 104±22 and 112±9 mg L−1 for the anaerobic and the coupled digesters, respectively. The coupled digesters recovered after a pH shock with residual sCOD as low as 132 mg L−1 compared to 636 mg L−1 for the anaerobic digester. With regard to the obtained results, the feasibility of the anaerobic- aerobic coupling in SBR digesters for the treatment of whey wastewater was demonstrated.
Performance of membrane-coupled organic acid fermentor for the resources recovery form municipal sewage sludge
Authors: Kim Jong-Oh , Jung Jong-Tae
Published: May 2007

This study focused on the treatment performance of membrane-coupled organic acid fermentor (MOF) with intermittent reciprocal air/ozone backwashing for the keeping of high permeation flux as well as for the effective recovery of dissolved organics from municipal sewage sludge. Intermittent reciprocal air/ozone backwashing was effective for membrane fouling reduction. When MOF was operated under the conditions of pH 5.5, hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 2 days and 20 days of solids retention time (SRT), most favourable fermentation efficiency was attained. Great inhibition for acid producing by intermittent reciprocal air/ozone backwashing was not observed during long-term operation. MOF with intermittent reciprocal air/ozone backwashing is believed to be an effective system for the recovery of organic matter from municipal sewage sludge and membrane fouling reduction.
Effect of chemical and biological treatment on COD fingerprints of textile wastewaters
Authors: Dulekgurgen E. , Doğruel S. , Orhon D.
Published: May 2007

Particle size distribution (PSD) via sequential filtration/ultrafiltration was used as the tool for COD fractionation and colour profiling of textile wastewaters before and after treatment. Profiles prior to treatment suggested PSD-based COD fingerprints characteristic for the influents. Treatment efficiencies were determined via comparing the profiles of the effluents from chemical- and biological-treatment to those of the corresponding influents. COD fingerprints of the wastewaters from the textile plants, applying different treatment alternatives, were different especially at the upper size range; yet profiles after treatment were similar, with the soluble fraction (<2 nm) being almost the only apparent one. Half of the overall COD-removal via chemical treatment was at the particulate- and upper colloidal-ranges, revealing that this alternative was effective at higher ranges, but not at the soluble fraction. In contrast, biological treatment was effective at both ends of size distribution, with total removal at the particulate range and 50% elimination at the soluble portion. Overall colour content and PSD-based colour profiles of the influents were also different. Chemical treatment was successful in removing colour originating from the entire colloidal range, but was not efficient at the soluble fraction. Conversely, colour removal efficiency of biological treatment was moderate throughout the entire size spectrum.
Interspecific and temporal variation of ant species within Acacia drepanolobium ant domatia, a staple food of patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas) in Laikipia, Kenya
Authors: Isbell Lynne A. , Young Truman P.
Published: May 2007

The ants that live in the swollen thorns (domatia) of Acacia drepanolobium are staple foods for patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas). To obtain a better understanding of these insects as resources for patas monkeys, we sampled the contents of 1,051 swollen thorns (ant domatia) over a 22‐month period from December 1999 to September 2001, in Laikipia, Kenya. First, we confirmed that of the four species of ants that live on A. drepanolobium, Crematogaster sjostedti, the competitively dominant ant in this system, does not rear significant brood in the swollen thorns and is therefore not a major food item of patas monkeys. Second, across the other three species that do use swollen thorns for rearing their brood, C. nigriceps, C. mimosae, and Tetraponera penzigi, the number of worker ants per swollen thorn increased with increasing competitive dominance. Third, although there was considerable month‐to‐month variation in the number of workers, immatures, and especially alates (winged reproductives) within species, there was less variation across species because ant production was asynchronous. Variation in domatia contents was poorly related to rainfall for each of the three species. Finally, distal thorns held more alates and fewer workers than interior thorns, and branches higher off the ground held more alates and more workers than lower branches. For the numerically dominant C. mimosae, higher branches held significantly more immature ants than did lower branches. Ants are reliable food resources for patas monkeys, and are probably more reliable than many plant resources in this highly seasonal environment. We estimate that patas monkeys may get as much as a third of their daily caloric needs from these ants year‐round. As ants and other insects are widely consumed by primates, we suggest that greater consideration be given to species differences in animal food choices and that further studies be conducted to examine the degree to which ants influence energy intake and reproduction in other primates. Am. J. Primatol. 69:1387–1398, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ueber einige Punkts in der Atomentheorie
Authors: Dumas
Published: May 2007

[Bekanntlich lassen sich, ohne dass dadurch in den Resultaten etwas geändert wird, die Atomengewichte der Körper gegen ihre Multipla oder Submultipla umtauschen, je nachdem man, gewissen Analogien folgend, in den binairen Verbindungen dieser Körper eine grössere oder geringere Anzahl von Atomen des andern Bestandtheils voraussetzt. Die Bestimmung der Atomengewichte bekommt hierdurch eine gewisse Willkührlichkeit, und diese zu entfernen ist der Zweck der nachfolgenden Untersuchung. Hr. Dumas geht dabei von dem Grundsatze aus, dass sich alle Körper, wie es schon für einige bewiesen ist, in einfachen Volumenverhältnissen verbinden, und dass das specifische Gewicht ihrer Dämpfe, welches dem einfachsten dieser Verhältnisse entspricht, das wahre Atomengewicht der Körper sey. Zu dem Ende bestimmt Hr. D. bei Körpern, die für sich nicht wohl in Dampf zu verwandeln sind, die Dichte der Dämpfe ihrer Verbindungen mit einem für sich gasförmigen Körper von bekannter Dichte. Hierdurch und durch das Atomengewicht des für sich starren Bestandtheils findet man das Volumenverhältniss, in welchem sich dieser mit dem Gase verbindet. Fällt das Volumenverhältniss mit dem angewandten Atomengewichte nicht einfach genug aus, so nimmt Hr. D. ein Multiplum oder Submultiplum dieses Gewichtes und dasjenige, welches das einfachste Volumenverhältniss liefert, sieht er als das wahre Atomengewicht des Körpers an. Die Atomengewichte der elementaren Körper fallen hierdurch überall mit den dichten oder specifischen Gewichten ihrer Gase oder Dämpfe zusammen. ‐ Diess mag die Einleitung des Originals ersetzen. P.]
The effect of citrate esters as plasticizers on the thermal and mechanical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate)
Authors: Gutierrez‐Villarreal Mario H. , Rodríguez‐Velazquez Jesús
Published: May 2007

Plasticizers play a key role in the formulation of polymers and in determining their physical properties and processability. This study examines the effects of citrate esters, triethylcitrate, and triacetine as plasticizers on the thermal and mechanical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate). The samples were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, dynamical mechanical analysis, and mechanical testing under different plasticizer contents. Both citrate esters proved to be effective as plasticizers, DSC data for the triacetine additive fits with Fox equation. Microstructure and relaxation properties were studied by dynamic mechanical analysis where loss modulus shows clearly that absorbed plasticizer shifts the α‐transition to lower temperature and β‐relaxations associated to ester side groups are unchanged even up to 30 wt % plasticizer. Mechanical properties were evaluated with an Instron testing machine. Both additives produced (1) an initial plasticization, with a decrease in tensile strength and modulus; (2) an antiplasticization, reflected as an increase in tensile strength; and modulus and (3) a final plasticization, with a notable decrease in tensile strength and modulus and an increase in elongation where a 35 wt % of triethylcitrate added to the poly(methyl methacrylate) increased in 200% its elongation. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
UV‐curable hybrid coatings based on vinylfunctionlized siloxane oligomer and acrylated polyester
Authors: He Jianyun , Zhou Liang , Soucek Mark D. , Wollyung Kathleen M. , Wesdemiotis Chrys
Published: May 2007

Organic–inorganic hybrid coatings were formulated using multifunctional vinyltrimethoxysilane (VTMS) oligomers and acrylated polyester (AP). A radical photoinitiator was added to the VTMS/AP formulation and the films were crosslinked via UV‐radiation. The viscoelastic, thermomechanical, and surface properties of the VTMS/AP films were evaluated as a function of VTMS content, using dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), contact angle, fracture toughness, and tensile properties. In addition, coating properties such as adhesion, scratch resistance, pencil hardness, and impact resistance were also investigated. The tensile and scratch data show that VTMS oligomer dramatically increased hardness and scratch resistance. The VTMS oligomer also increased the contact angle, led to a decrease in surface tension, and improved surface appearance. The VTMS oligomer also increases storage modulus, glass transition temperature, and crosslink density. The morphology of films and the particle size were observed using atomic force microscopy (AFM). The data indicated that the average silica particle size was ∼90 nm and the particles were well‐dispersed in the organic phase. It was postulated that the VTMS oligomer functioned effectively as a hyperbranched crosslinker, surface modifier, and reactive diluent. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 105:2376–2386, 2007
Crosslinked chitosan doped with Y2(CO3)3 and surface energy and electrorheological properties
Authors: Ma Yun , Jia Yun‐Ling , Shang Yan‐Li , Liao Fu‐Hui , Li Jun‐Ran , Zhang Shao‐Hua , Zhang Olivia
Published: May 2007

Novel electrorheological materials based on crosslinked chitosan doped with Y2(CO3)3 were synthesized with biocompatible chitosan as the substrate of the materials. The electrorheological performance, surface energy, and thermal decomposition behavior of the materials were investigated as functions of the composition change. The results show that doping Y2(CO3)3 can improve effectively the electrorheological performance of crosslinked chitosan with the formation of a metal–polymer complex when the doping degree is suitable. The surface energy plays an important role in influencing the electrorheological properties of the material. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Modification of rubber wood with styrene in combination with diethyl allyl phosphate as the flame‐retardant agent
Authors: Devi Rashmi R. , Saikia C. N. , Thakur Ashim J. , Maji T. K.
Published: May 2007

Rubber wood (Hevea brasiliensis) polymer composite was prepared using styrene as the monomer in combination with diethyl allyl phosphate (DEAP) to improve flame‐retardant property. DEAP was synthesized, characterized and incorporated into wood with styrene. The polymerization was accomplished by catalyst heat treatment using AIBN as the catalyst. The properties of wood–polymer composites (WPC) like water absorption, swelling in water, hardness, modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR) etc. were improved on treatment. The thermal degradation behavior of WPC was evaluated using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the flammability of the WPC was evaluated using the limiting oxygen index (LOI) test. It was observed that fire retardancy of WPC improved on incorporation of DEAP. FTIR spectroscopy and SEM study showed the interaction between wood and the polymers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Phase transition behavior and electro‐rheological effect of liquid crystalline cyclic‐siloxanes with fluorine atoms
Authors: Kaneko Kosuke , Miwa Yusuke , Nakamura Naotake
Published: May 2007

The phase transition behavior of liquid crystalline cyclic‐siloxanes containing fluorine atoms in the terminal mesogenic groups is reported. The series has different spacer length and the number of fluorine atoms that are included in the terminal mesogenic group. The thermal property of the compounds was investigated by polarizing optical microscopy (POM) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The influence of the spacer length between cyclic‐siloxane core and the terminal mesogenic groups on the mesomorphic properties was discussed. Moreover, we measured rheological property of these compounds in the presence of electric field. We described their electro‐rheological effect (ER effect) in consideration of the influence of molecular structure. The cyclic compounds exhibited considerably large ER effect of which the response time to an electric field was fast. They were expected to be used as novel ER fluids in engineering field. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Effect of the Air‐Jet and the False‐Twist texturing processes on the stress‐relaxation of polyamide 6.6 yarns
Authors: Manich A. M. , Maíllo J. , Cayuela D. , Gacén J. , de Castellar M. D. , Ussman M
Published: May 2007

Polyamide 6.6 multifilament yarns were converted to crimped fibers by texturing to simulate the properties of natural staple fiber yarns for textile applications. Texturing is carried out by mechanical stresses (turbulences or twisting) under thermal or hydrothermal conditions which affect the fine structure of the fiber. Two polyamide yarns with the same linear density but composed of filaments of different fineness were textured by the False‐Twist (thermal) and the Air‐Jet (hydrothermal) procedures. The influence of texturing and filament fineness on the relaxation behavior of the yarns was studied. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Synthesis of novel amino(alkylamino)deoxychitins and the adsorption behavior of acid dye onto the resulting polymers
Authors: Shimizu Yoshiaki , Akiyama Kenji , Saito Yoshihiro , Nakamura Takeo
Published: May 2007

Novel chitin‐based materials were synthesized and the adsorption behavior of typical acid dyes to the resulting polymers has been evaluated. The successful synthetic reaction was confirmed by the infrared spectroscopic measurements. By the reaction of alkalichitin with tosyl chloride, the corresponding tosylchitin was synthesized as a soluble and reactive precursor. Next, aminodeoxychitin was synthesized by the reaction of the tosylchitin with ammonia. Similarly, 2′‐aminoethylamino‐ and 6′‐aminohexylaminodeoxychitins were synthesized by reacting the tosylchitin with ethylenediamine and hexamethylenediamine, respectively. It has been confirmed that the adsorption abilities of these polymers for acid dyes were significantly high, and also that one of the aminodeoxychitins showed a high adsorption ability for Cu2+ ion. On the basis of the adsorption data of acid dye on the aminodeoxychitin, the tosylchitin and the original chitin, the amino group contents at C6 and C2 positions were estimated. The aminodeoxychitin and aminoalkylaminodeoxychitins could be applicable to the adsorbent for anionic dyes and Cu2+ ion along with a precursor for further novel derivatives. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2007
Estimating the number of pure chemical components in a mixture by maximum likelihood
Authors: Levina E. , Wagaman A.S. , Callender A.F. , Mandair G.S. , Morris M.D.
Published: May 2007

This paper addresses the problem of determining the number of pure chemical components in a mixture by applying the maximum likelihood estimator (MLE) of intrinsic dimension. The application here is to Raman spectroscopy data, although the method is general and can be applied to any type of data from a chemical mixture. We show that the MLE produces superior results compared to other methods on both simulated and real chemical mixtures, and is accurate even when minor components are present. Even if the signal‐to‐noise (SN) ratio is very low, accurate estimates can still be obtained by smoothing the data before applying the estimator, this approach is illustrated on two real datasets with high noise levels. Since the MLE is computed locally at every data point, we also show how the local estimates can be used for other applications, such as segmenting the specimen into homogeneous regions. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Empirical Kriging models and their applications to QSAR
Authors: Yin Hong , Li Runze , Fang Kai‐Tai , Liang Yi‐Zeng
Published: May 2007

A general Kriging model consists of two additive components: a parametric term and a stochastic error process. It is known that Kriging is an interpolating predictor and allows for a better fit to the data, but suffers from a decreasing ability to generalize to unseen data. By incorporating a disturbing or an independent random error term into Kriging model, the resulting model, which is called empirical Kriging model in the literature, may provide more accurate prediction for the highly noisy data than the Kriging model. This paper presents an extensive survey of the empirical Kriging model for quantitative structure‐activity relationship (QSAR) research and extends the parameters estimation technique with highly efficiency. In addiction, QSAR models are established by combining Kriging model or empirical Kriging model with principal components regression (PCR) and partial least squares regression (PLSR). We demonstrate for the real data set that the suggested empirical Kriging model can significantly improve the prediction ability of some commonly used models, including the Kriging model. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Composing hybrid wavelets for optimum and near‐optimum representation and accelerated evaluation of N‐way data sets
Authors: Luttrell Robert D. , Gilbert Michael K. , Vogt Frank
Published: May 2007

In hyphenated measurement devices, temporal, spatial, and spectral resolutions continue to increase. While this is advantageous from a chemical sensing perspective, the amount of data grows exponentially; this imposes challenges on Chemometric algorithms resulting in long computation times. In online sensing, however, time resolution is of vital importance and time delays introduced by lengthy computations become unacceptable. Further, in many applications, data need to be documented and a continuous stream of large data sets presents another technical burden regarding archiving space. This work builds on the previous wavelet studies that have already been published. It was found that there is no reason to use the same wavelet for all dimensions of a data set. ‘Hybrid wavelets’ were introduced which combine different wavelets; this facilitates fine‐tuning of the compression. The challenge in using hybrid wavelets lies in the very large number of possible wavelet combinations. A method is presented that automatically determines the optimum and near‐optimum wavelet combinations for a given data set. These wavelet combinations are found by evaluating each dimension of the data set separately. This procedure enables an optimization of computation speed, compressed data set size and accuracy of the Chemometric model.

Two data cubes acquired from two different experiments are used to show the selection algorithm's capabilities. These examples demonstrate that this algorithm selects hybrid wavelets that are superior to randomly selected wavelet combinations regarding data approximation, compressed data set size, and acceleration of computations. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simulated moving columns technique for enantioselective supercritical fluid chromatography
Authors: Zhang Yingru , Dai Jun , Wang‐Iverson David B. , Tymiak Adrienne A.
Published: May 2007

This article describes a very useful extension of an unique column switching technique called “Simulated Moving Columns” (SMC) that was previously reported for chiral high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) (Zhang and McConnell, Journal of Chromatography A 2004;1028:227–238). SMC uses two or three short chiral columns connected in series, and enables the unresolved enantiomers to separate repeatedly and exclusively through each of the columns until sufficient resolution is attained. The technique is significantly enhanced through the use of supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC). The supercritical or near critical carbon dioxide (CO2) used in the mobile phase of SFC possesses the properties of a liquid as well as a gas, and usually results in much sharper peaks compared to HPLC. Consequently, by combining SMC with SFC (SMC‐SFC), we were able to dramatically increase the number of SMC cycles with significantly less band broadening compared to HPLC. For the first time, an enantioselective SFC separation was demonstrated by increasing the column from the actual 20 cm length to reach a half meter virtual length with remarkably enhanced efficiency. Off‐column band broadening resulting from a two‐column SMC system was measured, and its impact on the enantioselectivity of SMC‐SFC was found to be much less than in SMC‐HPLC. Chirality, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prognostic implications of cell cycle‐related proteins in primary resectable pathologic N2 nonsmall cell lung cancer
Authors: Mohamed Sherif , Yasufuku Kazuhiro , Hiroshima Kenzo , Nakajima Takahiro , Yoshida Shigetoshi , Suzuki Makoto , Sekine Yasuo , Shibuya Kiyoshi , Iizasa Toshihiko , Farouk Atef , Fujisawa Takehiko
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND.

Patients who have pathologic N2 (pN2) nonsmall cell lung cancer (pN2 NSCLC) represent a heterogeneous group with regard to prognosis and treatment. Molecular features of NSCLC seem to be of interest. For the current study, to select an appropriate therapeutic strategy for each patient, patients with N2 NSCLC were stratified into homogenous subgroups according to the expression profiles of cell cycle‐related markers.

METHODS.

The expression levels of retinoblastoma protein (pRb), cyclin D1, p16, p53, and p21 proteins and values of the Ki‐67 labeling index were evaluated in 61 primary surgically resected tumor specimens from patients with pN2 NSCLC using immunohistochemistry. The prognostic impact of these markers on overall survival was analyzed in both univariate and multivariate analyses.

RESULTS.

In univariate analysis, p21, p16, and Ki‐67 were correlated significantly with survival. In multivariate analysis, only p21 and p16 influenced survival. Indeed, the group of patients with pN2 NSCLC who were positive for p21 and p16 had the most favorable overall survival (P= .001) and were correlated significantly with the clinical lymph node (cN) status (cN2 disease;P= .008). Moreover, no significant difference in survival was observed between patients with cN0/cN1 disease and patients with cN2 disease within the group (P= .4333).

CONCLUSIONS.

Loss of control of cell‐cycle checkpoints is a common occurrence in pN2 NSCLC. Functional cooperation between different cell‐cycle regulators constitutes another level of regulation in cell growth control and tumor suppression. Preoperative patients with pN2 NSCLC, even those with cN2 disease, who have positive p21 and p16 protein expression in their primary tumors are expected to have a favorable postoperative prognosis and may be candidates for primary resection. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Medically related legal needs and quality of life in cancer care
Authors: Zevon Michael A. , Schwabish Stephen , Donnelly James P. , Rodabaugh Kerry J.
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND.

This study investigated the interface of medical and legal systems by empirically identifying and evaluating the relation of medically related legal needs and patient quality of life and by assessing the degree to which these needs were addressed in standard patient care.

METHODS.

Medically related legal needs were identified in a focus group setting. These needs were subsequently sorted and rated by a sample of 50 mixed‐site cancer patients (22 men and 28 women; mean age, 52 years) and subjected to multidimensional scaling and cluster analyses. Participants also rated each need in terms of the extent to which it was met in their medical care and the impact on their quality of life.

RESULTS.

Participants identified 30 medically related legal needs. Multivariate analyses identified 4 distinct medical‐legal domains: Health Care Related, Estate Related, Financial, and Employment Related. Participants rated these domains as exerting a significant impact on quality of life. Patients reported that that these needs were not met by their current medical or supportive care.

CONCLUSIONS.

The present study identified a range of medically related legal needs of cancer patients. Despite their importance to patient quality of life, these needs were not met by standard medical and supportive care. Findings underscored the need to integrate legal resources into cancer care as an important component of interventions that enhance patient quality of life. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Risk factors for infections with multidrug‐resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia in patients with cancer
Authors: Ansari Shoaib R. , Hanna Hend , Hachem Ray , Jiang Ying , Rolston Kenneth , Raad Issam
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND.

Stenotrophomonas maltophilia is responsible for an increasing number of infections, especially in hospitalized patients. Therapy options are limited and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMX) is often the main treatment option for this infection. In the current study, the risk factors were determined for the emergence of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) S. maltophilia.

METHODS.

A case‐control study was conducted to determine risk factors for the development of MDR S. maltophilia in cancer patients. The case group was composed of patients treated at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center for MDR S. maltophilia between 1996 and 2004 (n = 54). Two control groups were used: patients at comparable risk for S. maltophilia (C‐controls) and patients with S. maltophilia infection that was susceptible to TMP‐SMX and at least 2 other antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, ceftazidime, amikacin, and ticarcillin/clavulanate) (S‐controls).

RESULTS.

When compared with C‐controls, prior use of carbapenems or quinolones and admission to an intensive care unit within 30 days of isolation of the pathogen were found to be independently associated with MDR S. maltophilia infection (P < .02), as was an increased overall mortality rate (P = .04). When compared with S‐controls, risk factors were history of S. maltophilia infection during the prior year and prior use of TMP‐SMX (P = .015).

CONCLUSIONS.

Judicious use of TMP‐SMX, carbapenems, and quinolones is necessary to control the risk for MDR S. maltophilia infection. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.
Histopathologic grading of adult medulloblastomas
Authors: Rodriguez Fausto J. , Eberhart Charles , O'Neill Brian Patrick , Slezak Jeff , Burger Peter C. , Goldthwaite Patricia , Wu Wenting , Giannini Caterina
Published: May 2007

BACKGROUND.

Histopathologic evaluation of the degree and extent of anaplasia is a useful prognostic parameter in pediatric medulloblastomas. Whether the same applies to adult medulloblastomas is not known.

METHODS.

The study included 74 adult patients with histologically confirmed medulloblastomas and retrospectively reassessed 67 cases with available slides for the presence of nodularity, collagen deposition (desmoplasia without nodules), and degree and extent of anaplasia.

RESULTS.

Patients included 43 men and 31 women with the following age distribution: 18–40 years (84%); 41–50 years (9%); and 51–70 years (7%). At last follow‐up, 56 patients were alive with a mean follow‐up of 6.3 years (range, 0.1–20.8 years). A variety of treatments were employed during the study period, including postoperative radiation (85%) and chemotherapy (27%). Precise treatment modalities were unknown in 12% of patients. Anaplasia was absent (34%), mild (34%), moderate (27%), or severe (5%). Severe anaplasia was diffuse in 2 cases and focal in 1, although in the latter cases severe anaplasia was diffusely present at the time of disease recurrence. Male sex was associated with decreased 10‐year recurrence‐free survival (40% vs 66%; P = .021) and overall survival (38% vs 68%; P = .005). Severe anaplasia at first resection was found to be an independent predictor of decreased recurrence‐free survival (P = .005) and overall survival (P = .015).

CONCLUSIONS.

The incidence of severe anaplasia in adult medulloblastomas is lower than in the pediatric population. Male sex and the presence of severe anaplasia at the time of first resection are predictors of decreased recurrence‐free and overall survival. However, the significance of severe anaplasia should be regarded with caution based on the small number of tumors with this feature in the current study. Cancer 2007. © 2007 American Cancer Society.