bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiviral pandemic risk assessment for urban receiving waters
Authors: Ellis J. B.
Published: February 2010

An 80% metabolic conversion of the Tamiflu® pro-drug (oseltamivir phosphate, OP) to its metabolite oseltamivir carboxylate (OC) and a high excretion rate combined with poor removal at sewage treatment works (STWs) means that potentially high STW OC emissions may occur in receiving waters. A risk assessment approach undertaken within the River Lee catchment in North East London indicates that predicted environmental concentrations for surface waters (PECsw) are likely to be in the general range of 40–80 μg L−1 during a pandemic sitaution within urban catchments having low dilution capacities. This implies low risk exposure levels which confirms previous studies, but there are considerable uncertainties associated with the methodology as well as risks that might result from persistent, long term chronic exposure to low-level water and sediment concentrations which might be mobilised under subsequent extreme flow conditions.
Efficiency, costs and benefits of AOPs for removal of pharmaceuticals from the water cycle
Authors: Tuerk J. , Sayder B. , Boergers A. , Vitz H. , Kiffmeyer T. K. , Kabasci S.
Published: February 2010

Different advanced oxidation processes (AOP) were developed for the treatment of highly loaded wastewater streams. Optimisation of removal and improvement of efficiency were carried out on a laboratory, semiworks and pilot plant scale. The persistent cytostatic drug cyclophosphamide was selected as a reference substance regarding elimination and evaluation of the various oxidation processes because of its low degradability rate. The investigated processes are cost-efficient and suitable regarding the treatment of wastewater streams since they lead to efficient elimination of antibiotics and antineoplastics. A total reduction of toxicity was proven by means of the umuC-test. However, in order to reduce pharmaceuticals from the water cycle, it must be considered that the input of more than 80 % of the pharmaceuticals entering wastewater treatment systems results from private households. Therefore, advanced technologies should also be installed at wastewater treatment plants.
Potential of constructed wetland systems for treating tannery industrial wastewater
Authors: Kaseva Mengiseny E. , Mbuligwe Stephen E.
Published: February 2010

This paper reports on findings of a study on the performance of two units of a Horizontal Sub-Surface Flow Constructed Wetland (HSSFCW) units in treating wastewater effluent from a tannery industry. One of the HSSFCW units was planted with macrophytes, while the other was used as a control (without plants). Wastewater was fed into the wetland units at the mean flow rate of 0.045±0.005 m3/day. The studied parameters were chromium, turbidity, salinity, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Electric Conductivity (EC), pH and temperature. The mean Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT) was 1.60 days (in the control) and 1.80 days (in the vegetated) units, obtained as a ratio of the volume of the wastewater and the volumetric flow rate of wastewater through the units while taking into consideration the porosity of the media. The vegetated HSSFCW exhibited higher chromium removal efficiency (99.83%), than the control unit with the removal efficiency of 92.53%. High chromium removal was associated with both high temperature as well as high pH values in the HSSFCW units. The reduction in turbidity was found to be 71% in the vegetated wetland unit while the corresponding value for the control unit was 66%. Results obtained indicated low reduction efficiencies of both EC (0.3% in the vegetated unit and 1.6% in the control unit) and salinity (11% in the vegetated unit and 22% in the control unit) in the two mesocosms. Generally, however, the study demonstrated that constructed wetlands can be used as an option for improving the quality of tannery effluents especially in the removal of chromium. Chromium removal might have been effected by, among others, gravitational settling of solids and formation of co-precipitation with insoluble compounds as well as adsorption on the substrates and plant surfaces.
Impacts of housing development on nutrients flow along canals in a peri-urban area of Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Honda R. , Hara Y. , Sekiyama M. , Hiramatsu A.
Published: February 2010

Change of nutrients load and flow according to land-use change induced by housing development was investigated in Bang Yai, Nonthaburi, Thailand, which located in the peri-urban area of Bangkok. Each house in the newly developed residential community was regulated to be equipped with a septic tank to collect night soil. However, greywater and leachate from the septic tank was collected by a community sewage system and discharged into the canals with insufficient treatment, while the canals still function as infrastructure for irrigation and transportation. In the study area, built-up area became 1.4 times and agricultural fields decreased by 13% from 2003 until 2007. Total nutrients load to the canals was increased by 25% as nitrogen and 14% as phosphorus according to the increase of built-up area. Net nutrients load from agricultural fields was largely set off when we evaluated nutrients inflow from the canals to the agricultural field through irrigation. Consequently, nutrients load from domestic wastewater accounted most of net nutrients load into the canal.
WERF Nutrient Challenge investigates limits of nutrient removal technologies
Authors: Neethling J. B. , Clark D. , Pramanik A. , Stensel H. D. , Sandino J. , Tsuchihashi R.
Published: February 2010

The WERF Nutrient Challenge is a multi-year collaborative research initiative established in 2007 to develop and provide current information about wastewater treatment nutrients (specifically nitrogen and phosphorus in wastewater), their characteristics, and bioavailability in aquatic environments to help regulators make informed decisions. The Nutrient Challenge will also provide data on nutrient removal so that treatment facilities can select sustainable, cost-effective methods and technologies to meet permit limits. To meet these goals, the Nutrient Challenge has teamed with a wide array of utilities, agencies, consultants, universities and other researchers and practitioners to collaborate on projects that advance these goals. The Nutrient Challenge is focusing on a different approach to collaborating and leveraging resources (financial and intellectual) on research projects by targeting existing projects and research that correspond with its goals and funding those aspects that the Nutrient Challenge identified as a priority. Because the Nutrient Challenge is focused on collaboration, outreach is an absolutely necessary component of its effectiveness. Through workshops, webinars, a web portal and online compendium, published papers, and conference lectures, the Nutrient Challenge is both presenting important new information, and soliciting new partnerships.
Novel composite photocatalyst made of TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Vega A. , Imoberdorf G. E. , Keshmir M. , Mohseni M.
Published: February 2010

A novel photocatalyst based on TiO2 nanoparticles was developed for application in fluidised bed photocatalytic reactors for water treatment. The mechanically robust photocatalyst consists of composite spheres made of TiO2 nanoparticles and TiO2 commercial powder. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and specific surface area analysis (BET) were used to characterise the catalyst. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated using model pesticide micro-pollutant. A complete model comprised of radiation, kinetic, and reactor bed models was also developed, allowing for detailed analysis of the photoreactor.
Comparison between hybrid moving bed biofilm reactor and activated sludge system: a pilot plant experiment
Authors: Di Trapani Daniele , Mannina Giorgio , Torregrossa Michele , Viviani Gaspare
Published: February 2010

The paper presents the comparison between the traditional activated sludge system (AS) and a hybrid moving bed biofilm reactor (HMBBR). In particular, an experimental campaign has been carried out at the WWTP in Palermo (Italy), on a pilot plant consisting of two pre-anoxic schemes. The aerated tank of the HMBBR line was filled with suspended carriers (AnoxKaldnes™ K1), with a 30% filling ratio. The hydraulic load of the HMBBR line was increased up to two times the AS one. Further, in order to distinguish the additional contribution of the attached biomass for the HMBBR system, in the two lines the Mixed Liquor Suspended Solids (MLSS) was maintained as equal as possible. The monitoring period lasted three months during which several parameters were monitored. The obtained results showed a good treatment ability of the HMBBR system, referring to the organic matter removal as well as to the ammonium removal. In particular, in spite of the increase of the hydraulic load for the HMBBR line, the two systems showed a similar performance in terms of both organic and nitrogen removal. The results demonstrate the higher treatment capacity of the HMBBR addressing such system as an effective technology for the upgrading of overloaded wastewater treatment plants.
Fouling propensity of forward osmosis: investigation of the slower flux decline phenomenon
Authors: Lay Winson C. L. , Chong Tzyy Haur , Tang Chuyang Y. , Fane Anthony G. , Zhang Jinsong , Liu Yu
Published: February 2010

Forward Osmosis (FO) is a membrane process that uses the natural osmotic pressure of a concentrated draw solution to extract pure water from a feed stream. The attraction of the FO process is that it uses dense membranes, while operating at ambient pressure. This means that the FO process could potentially produce high quality water with lower energy consumption, as compared to the other desalination or reclamation processes. As FO does not entail the use of hydraulic pressure, FO has been hypothesized to have lower fouling propensity than pressure driven membrane processes. Membrane fouling has significant impact on the operational sustainability and economics of the process. This study examines the possible contributing factors to the slower flux decline observed in FO experiments based on a combined experimental and modelling approach. It was found that these factors could include low water fluxes, use of hydrophilic and smooth membranes, and the effect of internal concentration polarisation that is inherent of FO. It was also found that the transmission of draw solutes from the draw solution into the feed can have significant effect on FO performance.
Real-time control of combined surface water quantity and quality: polder flushing
Authors: Xu M. , van Overloop P. J. , van de Giesen N. C. , Stelling G. S.
Published: February 2010

In open water systems, keeping both water depths and water quality at specified values is critical for maintaining a ‘healthy’ water system. Many systems still require manual operation, at least for water quality management. When applying real-time control, both quantity and quality standards need to be met. In this paper, an artificial polder flushing case is studied. Model Predictive Control (MPC) is developed to control the system. In addition to MPC, a ‘forward estimation’ procedure is used to acquire water quality predictions for the simplified model used in MPC optimization. In order to illustrate the advantages of MPC, classical control [Proportional-Integral control (PI)] has been developed for comparison in the test case. The results show that both algorithms are able to control the polder flushing process, but MPC is more efficient in functionality and control flexibility.
A systematic approach for model verification: application on seven published activated sludge models
Authors: Hauduc H. , Rieger L. , Takács I. , Héduit A. , Vanrolleghem P. A. , Gillot S.
Published: February 2010

The quality of simulation results can be significantly affected by errors in the published model (typing, inconsistencies, gaps or conceptual errors) and/or in the underlying numerical model description. Seven of the most commonly used activated sludge models have been investigated to point out the typing errors, inconsistencies and gaps in the model publications: ASM1; ASM2d; ASM3; ASM3 + Bio-P; ASM2d + TUD; New General; UCTPHO+. A systematic approach to verify models by tracking typing errors and inconsistencies in model development and software implementation is proposed. Then, stoichiometry and kinetic rate expressions are checked for each model and the errors found are reported in detail. An attached spreadsheet (see http://www.iwaponline.com/wst/06104/0898.pdf) provides corrected matrices with the calculations of all stoichiometric coefficients for the discussed biokinetic models and gives an example of proper continuity checks.
New framework for standardized notation in wastewater treatment modelling
Authors: Corominas Ll. , Rieger L. , Takács I. , Ekama G. , Hauduc H. , Vanrolleghem P. A. , Oehmen A. , Gernaey K. V. , van Loosdrecht M. C. M. , Comeau Y.
Published: February 2010

Many unit process models are available in the field of wastewater treatment. All of these models use their own notation, causing problems for documentation, implementation and connection of different models (using different sets of state variables). The main goal of this paper is to propose a new notational framework which allows unique and systematic naming of state variables and parameters of biokinetic models in the wastewater treatment field. The symbols are based on one main letter that gives a general description of the state variable or parameter and several subscript levels that provide greater specification. Only those levels that make the name unique within the model context are needed in creating the symbol. The paper describes specific problems encountered with the currently used notation, presents the proposed framework and provides additional practical examples. The overall result is a framework that can be used in whole plant modelling, which consists of different fields such as activated sludge, anaerobic digestion, sidestream treatment, membrane bioreactors, metabolic approaches, fate of micropollutants and biofilm processes. The main objective of this consensus building paper is to establish a consistent set of rules that can be applied to existing and most importantly, future models. Applying the proposed notation should make it easier for everyone active in the wastewater treatment field to read, write and review documents describing modelling projects.
Nitrogen removal during summer and winter in a primary facultative waste stabilization pond: preliminary findings from 15N-labelled ammonium tracking techniques
Authors: van der Linde E. R. C. , Mara D. D.
Published: February 2010

Nitrogen removal mechanisms and pathways within WSP have been the focus of much research over the last 30 years. Debates and theories postulated continue to refine our knowledge regarding the cycling and removal pathways for this important nutrient, but a succinct answer has yet to be provided for holistic nitrogen removal. In this study, two experimental runs using labelled 15N as a stable isotope tracking technique were conducted on a pilot-scale primary facultative WSP in the UK; one in the summer of 2006, and the other in the winter of 2007. An ammonium chloride (15NH4Cl) spike was prepared as the slug for each experimental run, which also contained rhodamine WT to act as a dye tracer enabling the hydraulic characteristics of the pond to be mapped. Initial results from the study are reported here, and findings are compared and contrasted. Preliminary findings reveal that a greater proportion of 15N is incorporated into the algal biomass by assimilation and subsequent release as soluble organic nitrogen in summer than in winter. 15N ammonium passes out of the system much sooner and in a much higher proportion in the winter than in summer.
A review of the factors affecting sunlight inactivation of micro-organisms in waste stabilisation ponds: preliminary results for enterococci
Authors: Bolton N. F. , Cromar N. J. , Hallsworth P. , Fallowfield H. J.
Published: February 2010

Waste stabilisation ponds (WSP) are efficient, cost-effective methods of treating wastewater in rural and remote communities in Australia. It is recognised that sunlight plays a significant role in their disinfection, however, due to the poor penetration of light in turbid waters it has been hypothesised that other mechanisms may also contribute to disinfection in WSPs. To date, studies have reported various and conflicting results with regards to the relative contributions of UVA, UVB, PAR and environmental factors including pH, DO and photo-sensitisers on micro-organism disinfection. Initially we investigated the role of these environmental factors on the solar disinfection of enterococci in buffered distilled water to control for potential confounding factors within the wastewater. Die-off rate constants were measured, in sterile buffered distilled water at varying pH and dissolved oxygen concentrations, for enterococci irradiated with UVA and UVB. Enterococci were found to be predominantly inactivated by UVB (p < 0.001), however, UVA was also observed to increase inactivation rates relative to the dark control (p < 0.001). DO and pH were found to have no effect on inactivation rate when enterococci were irradiated with UVB (p > 0.05), however, when irradiated with UVA, both DO and pH were observed to further increase inactivation rates (p < 0.01).
Biogas recovery from a temperate climate covered anaerobic pond
Authors: Heubeck S. , Craggs R. J.
Published: February 2010

New Zealand has over 1000 anaerobic waste stabilisation ponds treating wastewater from farms and industry. Traditional anaerobic ponds were not designed to optimise anaerobic digestion to produce biogas and are therefore uncovered, releasing biogas to the atmosphere, which can cause odour problems and contributes to GHG emissions. The biogas production and treatment performance of an anaerobic piggery pond retrofitted with a perimeter cover working under field conditions was monitored over a 14 month period. The cover design proved successful in capturing biogas, mitigating odour and GHG issues and coping with New Zealand weather conditions. High solids removal rates (73% and 86% for TS and VS respectively) were achieved. An annual average biogas methane production rate of 0.263 m3 CH4/kgVSadded was observed, which is similar to gas production rates of mesophilic farm waste digesters, and indicates that the prolonged hydraulic and solids retention times of covered anaerobic ponds can fully compensate for lower operating temperatures. These results suggest that covered anaerobic ponds treating agricultural wastes in New Zealand have great potential to reduce odour and GHG emissions and recover renewable energy, while producing an easy to handle effluent for land irrigation or further treatment.
Studies of the outcome of the treatment with beta-blockers in secondary prevention of the ischemic heart disease
Authors: Radovic Vesna
Published: February 2010

Convincing evidence of the decline of mortality has been achieved with beta-blockers in patients with an acute myocardial infarction and in post-infarction follow-up. The beta-blockers are also the most efficient antianginal medications for the decrease of ischemia in outpatients. They are highly efficient as a monotherapy for angina and are also a medication of choice for angina after the coronary. The objective of this work was an estimate of the use of beta-blockers in secondary prevention of the ischemic heart disease and eliminating doubts concerning their prescription. The method of the analysis sums up the results of a twenty-five- year study on of the outcome of the treatment with beta-blockers in secondary prevention of the ischemic heart disease. The method of the work implies an examination of the professional literature and the data-bases, such as MEDLINE, PubMed and KOBSON. The first studies concerned non-selective beta-blockers, used orally. The following studies concerned cardioselective beta-blockers, metoprolol and atenolol. Several studies followed also the effect of beta-blockers and heparin, or beta-blockers and antagonists of calcium towards placebo, in patients with an unstable angina pectoris. Beta-blockers are an essential drug in secondary prevention of the myocardial infarction and in chronic heart failure. The necessary condition for the efficiency of beta-blockers is an early use. Beta-blockers should be given within 12 hours after the appearance of pain. The continuation of the therapy with beta-blockers after the acute phase is considered to be important in the decrease of the infarction zone expansion. Prophylactic use of beta-blockers after the coronary has an excellent effect, above all in patients with a minor, uncomplicated coronary. Though certain groups of beta-blockers have some special characteristics, when it comes to the treatment of angina pectoris, all beta-blockers are efficient. Generally, patients react well to them. Preference is given to cardioselective remedies, in patients with diabetes or lung disease. Exhaustive controlled clinical studies affirm beta-blockers as drugs that reduce mortality in secondary prevention of the ischemic heart disease.
Circulating nucleic acids as a new diagnostic tool
Authors: Urbanova Marketa , Plzak Jan , Strnad Hynek , Betka Jan
Published: February 2010

The discovery of circulating nucleic acids in the 1940s opened up new possibilities for the non-invasive detection, monitoring and screening of various human disorders. Several tumour markers that enable early cancer detection or tumour behaviour prediction have been detected in the plasma of cancer patients. Maternal plasma analysis can be used to detect certain fetal abnormalities, with the quantification of cell-free nucleic acids used to screen for several pregnancy-associated disorders. Some other applications are in transplant monitoring and graft rejection assessment, and in certain medical emergencies such as trauma and burn severity stratification. Many studies have yielded promising results in this field, but the techniques have yet to be applied in routine clinical practice. Large-scale studies using similar technologies and a broad spectrum of patients are still needed to verify the results of the various studies.
Inhibitor of differentiation 1 (Id1) promotes cell survival and proliferation of prostate epithelial cells
Authors: Schmidt Michelle , Asirvatham Ananthi , Chaudhary Jaideep
Published: February 2010

Id1 (inhibitor of differentiation 1) is a member of the bHLH protein family. Consistent with its role in promoting proliferation and inhibiting differentiation, Id1 expression is low or negligible in normal prostate epithelial cells but is high in prostate cancer. Ectopic expression of Id1 in normal prostate epithelial cells could therefore provide a model for understanding early events involved in initiation of prostate cancer. Over-expression of Id1 immortalized but did not transform ventral prostate epithelial cells (Id1-RPE). Immortalization was associated with decreased Cdkn2a, Cdkn1a, androgen receptor and increased Tert expression. Gene expression profiling over successive doublings was used to identify transcriptomic changes involved during immortalization (Tieg, Jun, alpha actin, Klf10, Id2) and in maintaining the immortalized phenotype (Igfbp3, Igfbp5, Mmp2, Tgfb3). Network analysis indicated that Id1 promotes cancer/tumor morphology, cell cycle and epithelial to mesenchymal transition by influencing AP1, tnf, tgfβ, PdgfBB and estradiol pathways. During immortalization, the expression of majority of differentially expressed genes reduced over progressive doublings suggesting a decline in transcriptional regulatory mechanisms. The associated molecular/gene expression profile of Id1-RPE cells provides an opportunity to understand the molecular pathways associated with prostate epithelial cell survival and proliferation.
HPLC analysis of a syrup containing nimesulide and its hydrolytic degradation product
Authors: Mokrý Milan , Klimeš Jiří , Pechová Jana
Published: February 2010

The present paper deals with the evaluation of nimesulide, 2-phenoxy-4-nitroaniline, the main hydrolytic degradation product of nimesulide, of methylparaben and propylparaben, and eventually of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid by HPLC with UV detection at 254 nm in syrup as a pharmaceutical formulation. HPLC analysis was employed on the reversed phase C18 with methanol and 0.01 M dibasic ammonium phosphate (ρ r = 60: 40, pH 4.0). Validation was performed using standards and a pharmaceutical preparation containing the compounds described above.
Synthesis, DNA binding, and antimicrobial studies of novel metal complexes containing a pyrazolone derivative Schiff base
Authors: Raman Natarajan , Jeyamurugan Ramaraj , Subbulakshmi Mariyyappan , Boominathan Raja , Yuvarajan Chithu
Published: February 2010

A novel series of Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and VO(IV) complexes has been synthesized from the Schiff base derived from 4-[(3,4-dimethoxybenzylidene)amino]-1,5-dimethyl-2-phenyl-1,2-dihydropyrazol-3-one and 1,2-diaminobenzene. Structural features were determined by analytical and spectral techniques. Binding of synthesized complexes with calf thymus DNA (CT DNA) was studied by spectroscopic methods and viscosity measurements. Experimental results indicate that the complexes are able to form adducts with DNA and to distort the double helix by changing the base stacking. Lower DNA affinity of the VO(IV) complex is caused by the change of coordination geometry by the vanadyl ion resulting in a somewhat unfavorable configuration for the DNA binding. Oxidative DNA cleavage activities of the complexes were studied with supercoiled (SC) pUC19 DNA using gel electrophoresis; the mechanism studies revealed that the hydroxyl radical is likely to be the reactive species responsible for the cleavage of pUC19 DNA by the synthesized complexes. The in vitro antimicrobial screening effects of the investigated compounds were monitored by the disc diffusion method. The synthesized Schiff base complexes exhibit higher antimicrobial activity than the respective free Schiff base.
Synthesis of new antimicrobial 4-aminosubstituted 3-nitrocoumarins
Authors: Dekić Biljana , Dekić Vidoslav , Radulović Niko , Vukićević Rastko , Palić Radosav
Published: February 2010

A series of new coumarin derivatives has been synthesized by condensation of 4-chloro-3-nitrocoumarin and the appropriate arylamine and sulfonamide in ethyl acetate in the presence of triethylamine. The synthesized compounds were screened for their in vitro antimicrobial activity against thirteen strains of bacteria and three fungal/yeast strains using disk diffusion assays. They were shown to possess a wide range of activities from almost completely inactive compounds to medium active ones. (4-[(5-Chloropyridin-2-yl)amino]-3-nitro-2H-chromen-2-one) showed similar activity against Klebsiella pneumoniae as tetracycline.
Application of extended NRTL equation for ternary liquid-liquid and vapor-liquid-liquid equilibria description
Authors: Steltenpohl Pavol , Graczová Elena
Published: February 2010

Simulation of a hydrocarbons mixture separation by extractive distillation was based on binary vapor-liquid as well as liquid-liquid equilibrium data. Sulfolane was considered as extractive solvent for the selective toluene separation from a model mixture with heptane. For simulation of the chosen hydrocarbons mixture separation in the presence of an extractive solvent, the NRTL model was considered. A set of temperature-dependent binary NRTL parameters was evaluated independently by fitting the experimental vapor-liquid and liquid-liquid equilibrium data of the respective binary subsystems. In order to improve the description of the ternary vapor-liquid equilibrium, original NRTL model extended by the ternary contribution term was used. Parameters of the ternary contribution were obtained by direct fitting of available ternary liquid-liquid equilibrium data while employing the original binary NRTL parameters. Quality of the ternary vapor-liquid-liquid equilibrium description using the original and the extended excess Gibbs energy models was assessed by comparing the calculated compositions of conjugate liquid phases with experimental data. Using the extended NRTL model, mean deviation of the computed mole fractions decreased by approximately four times (9.73 × 10−3) compared to the value obtained using the original NRTL model. Both original and extended NRTL models were employed for the simulation of a model mixture separation by extractive distillation. At chosen experimental conditions, high purity distillate (x 1 > 0.999) was obtained. Results of the aromatics extractive distillation in the presence of sulfolane were compared to those obtained with N-methylpyrrolidone as the extractive solvent.
Appraising Evidence for Intervention Effectiveness in Early Psychosis: Conceptual Framework and Review of Evaluation Approaches
Authors: Catts Stanley V. , O'Toole Brian I. , Carr Vaughan J. , Lewin Terry , Neil Amanda , Harris Meredith G. , Frost Aaron D.J. , Crissman Belinda R. , Eadie Kathy , Evans Russell W.
Published: February 2010

The literature that is relevant to evaluation of treatment effectiveness is large, scattered and difficult to assemble for appraisal. This scoping review first develops a conceptual framework to help organize the field, and second, uses the framework to appraise early psychosis intervention (EPI) studies. Literature searches were used to identify representative study designs, which were then sorted according to evaluation approach. The groupings provided a conceptual framework upon which a map of the field could be drawn. Key words were cross-checked against definitions in dictionaries of scientific terms and the National Library of Medicine Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) browser. Using the final list of key words as search terms, the EPI evaluation literature was appraised. Experimental studies could be grouped into two classes: efficacy and effectiveness randomized controlled trials. Non-experimental studies could be subgrouped into at least four overlapping categories: clinical epidemiological; health service evaluations; quality assurance studies; and, quasi-experimental assessments of treatment effects. Applying this framework to appraise EPI studies indicated promising evidence for the effectiveness of EPI irrespective of study design type, and a clearer picture of where future evaluation efforts should be focused. Reliance on clinical trials alone will restrict the type of information that can inform clinical practice. There is convergent evidence for the benefits of specialized EPI service functions across a range of study designs. Greater investment in health services research and quality assurance approaches in evaluating EPI effectiveness should be made, which will involve scaling up of study sizes and development of an EPI programme fidelity rating template. The degree of complexity of the evaluation field suggests that greater focus on research methodology in the training of Australasian psychiatrists is urgently needed.
Maternal Psychopathology and Outcomes of a Residential Mother-Infant Intervention for Unsettled Infant Behaviour
Authors: Phillips Jane , Sharpe Louise , Nemeth Deborah
Published: February 2010

Objective: Residential mother-infant intervention programmes for unsettled infant behaviour have been shown to be associated with positive child and maternal outcomes. Despite evidence of elevated rates of maternal psychopathology among residential unit populations, little is known about whether psychological disorders interfere with the effectiveness of such interventions.

Method: Two cohorts (n = 104 and 147, respectively) were recruited from a residential mother-infant intervention programme for unsettled infant behaviour. In study 1, mothers completed self-report questionnaires measuring depression, anxiety and parenting stress at three time points (admission, 1 month after discharge and 3 months after discharge). In study 2, mothers were interviewed using a structured clinical interview for depressive and anxiety disorders. In both studies, nurses recorded infant behaviours over the duration of the 5 day admission using 24 h behaviour charts.

Results: Study 1 showed the intervention to be associated with significant improvements in child behaviours and in levels of maternal depression, anxiety and parenting stress. These improvements were evident for women who scored above the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale threshold for major depression during the admission, as well as for women in the normal range. Study 2 confirmed that the intervention was associated with significant improvements in infant behaviours. Infants of mothers with a depressive or anxiety disorder were less unsettled on admission, but improvements over the course of the admission were comparable for infants of women who had, or had not, experienced an anxiety or depressive disorder during the admission.

Conclusions: These results show positive infant and maternal outcomes associated with a residential mother-infant intervention for unsettled infant behaviour, regardless of the women's psychiatric status on admission. This suggests that women with depression or anxiety disorders who also report unsettled infant behaviour, will benefit from referral to residential programmes.
Direct and Indirect Effects of Climate Change on Amphibian Populations
Authors: Blaustein Andrew R. , Walls Susan C. , Bancroft Betsy A. , Lawler Joshua J. , Searle Catherine L. , Gervasi Stephanie S.
Published: February 2010

As part of an overall decline in biodiversity, populations of many organisms are declining and species are being lost at unprecedented rates around the world. This includes many populations and species of amphibians. Although numerous factors are affecting amphibian populations, we show potential direct and indirect effects of climate change on amphibians at the individual, population and community level. Shifts in amphibian ranges are predicted. Changes in climate may affect survival, growth, reproduction and dispersal capabilities. Moreover, climate change can alter amphibian habitats including vegetation, soil, and hydrology. Climate change can influence food availability, predator-prey relationships and competitive interactions which can alter community structure. Climate change can also alter pathogen-host dynamics and greatly influence how diseases are manifested. Changes in climate can interact with other stressors such as UV-B radiation and contaminants. The interactions among all these factors are complex and are probably driving some amphibian population declines and extinctions.
Entropy and Divergence Associated with Power Function and the Statistical Application
Authors: Eguchi Shinto , Kato Shogo
Published: February 2010

In statistical physics, Boltzmann-Shannon entropy provides good understanding for the equilibrium states of a number of phenomena. In statistics, the entropy corresponds to the maximum likelihood method, in which Kullback-Leibler divergence connects Boltzmann-Shannon entropy and the expected log-likelihood function. The maximum likelihood estimation has been supported for the optimal performance, which is known to be easily broken down in the presence of a small degree of model uncertainty. To deal with this problem, a new statistical method, closely related to Tsallis entropy, is proposed and shown to be robust for outliers, and we discuss a local learning property associated with the method.
Mutagenicity of New Lead Compounds to Treat Sickle Cell Disease Symptoms in a Salmonella/Microsome Assay
Authors: Dos Santos Jean Leandro , Varanda Eliana A. , Lima Lídia Moreira , Chin Chung Man
Published: February 2010

A series of phthalimide derivatives planned as drugs candidates to treat the symptoms of sickle cell anemia were evaluated in a mutagenicity test using strains of Salmonella typhimurium TA100 and TA102, without and with addition of S9 mixture, with the aim to identify the best structural requirements for a drug candidate without genotoxic activity. The compounds (1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl)methyl nitrate (1); (1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl)ethyl nitrate (2); 3-(1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-iso-indol-2-yl)benzyl nitrate (3); 4-(1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl)-N-hydroxy-benzenesulfonamide (4); 4-(1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl)benzyl nitrate (5) and 2-[4-(1,3-dioxo-1,3-dihydro-2H-isoindol-2-yl)phenyl]ethyl nitrate (6) presented mutagenic potency ranging between 0-4,803 revertants/μmol. These results allowed us to propose that a methyl spacer linked to a nitrate ester subunit associated to meta aromatic substitution decreases mutagenicity.
Electrically and Thermally Conducting Nanocomposites for Electronic Applications
Authors: Jones Wayne E. , Chiguma Jasper , Johnson Edwin , Pachamuthu Ashok , Santos Daryl
Published: February 2010

Nanocomposites made up of polymer matrices and carbon nanotubes are a class of advanced materials with great application potential in electronics packaging. Nanocomposites with carbon nanotubes as fillers have been designed with the aim of exploiting the high thermal, electrical and mechanical properties characteristic of carbon nanotubes. Heat dissipation in electronic devices requires interface materials with high thermal conductivity. Here, current developments and challenges in the application of nanotubes as fillers in polymer matrices are explored. The blending together of nanotubes and polymers result in what are known as nanocomposites. Among the most pressing current issues related to nanocomposite fabrication are (i) dispersion of carbon nanotubes in the polymer host, (ii) carbon nanotube-polymer interaction and the nature of the interface, and (iii) alignment of carbon nanotubes in a polymer matrix. These issues are believed to be directly related to the electrical and thermal performance of nanocomposites. The recent progress in the fabrication of nanocomposites with carbon nanotubes as fillers and their potential application in electronics packaging as thermal interface materials is also reported.
Functional Impact of Targeted Closed-Chest Transplantation of Bone Marrow Cells in Rats with Acute Myocardial Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Ghanem Alexander , Ziomka Agnieszka , Krausgrill Benjamin , Schenk Kerstin , Troatz Clemens , Miszalski-Jamka Tomas , Nickenig Georg , Tiemann Klaus , Müller-Ehmsen Jochen
Published: February 2010

Intramyocardial transplantation of bone marrow-derived stem cells is a potential therapeutic option after myocardial infarction (MI). Intramyocardial administration is invasive but allows efficient and targeted stem cell delivery. Aims of this study were validation of minimal-invasive, echo-guided closed-chest cell transplantation (CTx) of mononuclear (MNC) or mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and quantification of systolic left ventricular function and assessment of contractile reserve with high-resolution reconstructive 3D-echocardiography (r3D-echo) 3 weeks after CTx. Female Fischer344 rats received syngeneic male MNC, MSC, or medium after myocardial ischemia and reperfusion via echo-guided percutaneous injection (open-chest for control). Left ventricular systolic function was measured and dysfunctional myocardium was quantified with r3D-echo. For investigation of contractile reserve and myocardial viability r3D-echo was additionally conducted during low-dose dobutamine 3 weeks after CTx. Cell persistence after echo-guided CTx was quantified via real-time PCR; scar size was measured histologically. Echo-guided percutaneous CTx was feasible in all animals ( n = 30) without periprocedural complications. After 3 weeks, 1.4 ± 1.1% of transplanted MNC and 1.9 ± 1.2% of MSC were detected. These numbers were comparable to those after open-chest intramyocardial injection of MNC (0.8 ± 1.1%; n = 8, p = 0.3). In r3D-echo no functional benefit was associated with CTx after MI and reperfusion. All groups (MNC, MSC, and controls) revealed a significant decrease of dysfunctional myocardium and similar contractile reserve during inotropic stimulation. In conclusion, percutaneous echo-guided closed-chest CTx promises to be an effective and safe approach for CTx in small-animal research. However, intramyocardial CTx of MNC or MSC had no influence on systolic function and contractile reserve after reperfused MI.
Current Status of Stem Cell Therapy for Liver Diseases
Authors: de Freitas Souza Bruno Solano , Nogueira Renata Campos , de Oliveira Sheilla Andrade , de Freitas Luiz Antonio Rodrigues , Lyra Luiz Guilherme Costa , dos Santos Ricardo Ribeiro , Lyra Andre Castro , Soares Milena Botelho Pereira
Published: February 2010

Liver failure is one of the main causes of death worldwide and is a growing health problem. Since the discovery of stem cell populations capable of differentiating into specialized cell types, including hepatocytes, the possibility of their utilization in the regeneration of the damaged liver has been a focus of intense investigation. A variety of cell types were tested both in vitro and in vivo, but the definition of a more suitable cell preparation for therapeutic use in each type of liver lesions is yet to be determined. Here we review the protocols described for differentiation of stem cells into hepatocytes, the results of cell therapy in animal models of liver diseases, as well as the available data of the clinical trials in patients with advanced chronic liver disease.
Intravenous Administration of 99mTc-HMPAO-Labeled Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells after Stroke: In Vivo Imaging and Biodistribution
Authors: Detante Olivier , Moisan Anaïck , Dimastromatteo Julien , Richard Marie-Jeanne , Riou Laurent , Grillon Emmanuelle , Barbier Emmanuel , Desruet Marie-Dominique , De Fraipont Florence , Segebarth Christoph , Jaillard Assia , Hommel Marc , Ghezzi Catherine , Remy Chantal
Published: February 2010

Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) are a promising source for cell therapy after stroke. To deliver these cells, an IV injection appears safer than a local graft. We aimed to assess the whole-body biodistribution of IV-injected 99mTc-HMPAO-labeled hMSC in normal rats ( n = 9) and following a right middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo, n = 9). Whole-body nuclear imaging, isolated organ counting (at 2 and 20 h after injection) and histology were performed. A higher activity was observed in the right damaged hemisphere of the MCAo group [6.5 ± 0.9 × 10−3 % of injected dose (ID)/g] than in the control group (3.6 ± 1.2 × 10−3 %ID/g), 20 h after injection. In MCAo rats, right hemisphere activity was higher than that observed in the contralateral hemisphere at 2 h after injection (11.6 ± 2.8 vs. 9.8 ± 1.7 × 10−3 %ID/g). Following an initial hMSC lung accumulation, there was a decrease in pulmonary activity from 2 to 20 h after injection in both groups. The spleen was the only organ in which activity increased between 2 and 20 h. The presence of hMSC was documented in the spleen, liver, lung, and brain following histology. IV-injected hMSC are transiently trapped in the lungs, can be sequestered in the spleen, and are predominantly eliminated by kidneys. After 20 h, more hMSC are found in the ischemic lesion than into the undamaged cerebral tissue. IV delivery of hMSC could be the initial route for a clinical trial of tolerance.
Functional Recovery after the Transplantation of Neurally Differentiated Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from Bone Barrow in a Rat Model of Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Cho Sung-Rae , Kim Yong Rae , Kang Hoi-Sung , Yim Sun Hee , Park Chang-il , Min Yoo Hong , Lee Bae Hwan , Shin Ji Cheol , Lim Jong-Baeck
Published: February 2010

This study was designed to investigate functional recovery after the transplantation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or neurally differentiated MSCs (NMSCs) derived from bone marrow in a rat model of spinal cord injury (SCI). Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to incomplete SCI using an NYU impactor to create a free drop contusion at the T9 level. The SCI rats were then classified into three groups; MSCs, NMSCs, and phosphate-buffered saline (PBS)-treated groups. The cells or PBS were administrated 1 week after SCI. Basso-Beattie-Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor rating scores were measured at 1-week intervals for 9 weeks. Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) and motor evoked potentials (MEPs) were also recorded 8 weeks after transplantation. While transplantation of MSCs led to a clear tendency of motor recovery, NMSC-treated rats had significantly improved BBB scores and showed significantly shortened initial latency, N1 latency, and P1 latency of the SSEPs compared to PBS controls. In addition, 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-prelabeled MSCs costained for BrdU and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) or myelin basic protein (MBP) were found rostrally and caudally 5 mm each from the epicenter of the necrotic cavity 4 weeks after transplantation. These results suggest that neurally differentiated cells might be an effective therapeutic source for functional recovery after SCI.
Concrete laterally confined with fibre-reinforced polymers (FRP): experimental study and theoretical model
Authors: Aire C. , Gettu R. , Casas J. R. , Marques S. , Marques D.
Published: February 2010

This paper presents the findings of an experimental and analytical study of concrete cylinder behaviour when wrapped in fibreglass or carbon fibre-reinforced polymers (FRP). Compression testing was conducted on normal (30 MPa) and high (70 MPa) strength confined and unconfined concrete cylinders measuring 150 x 300 mm. The stress-strain relationship was evaluated in both cases. The findings showed that strength and ductility rose with FRP confinement.

The experimental findings were used to develop an analytical model for predicting the stress-strain behaviour of FRP-confined concrete. A comparison of the experimental and analytical results revealed that the model can satisfactorily predict the stress-strain behaviour and ultimate compressive strength of the concretes studied.
Clcn5Knockout Mice Exhibit Novel Immunomodulatory Effects and Are More Susceptible to Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis
Authors: Alex Philip , Ye Mei , Zachos Nicholas C. , Sipes Jennifer , Nguyen Thuan , Suhodrev Maxim , Gonzales Liberty , Arora Zubin , Zhang Ting , Centola Michael , Guggino Sandra E. , Li Xuhang
Published: February 2010

Although the intracellular Cl−/H+ exchanger Clc-5 is expressed in apical intestinal endocytic compartments, its pathophysiological role in the gastrointestinal tract is unknown. In light of recent findings that CLC-5 is downregulated in active ulcerative colitis (UC), we tested the hypothesis that loss of CLC-5 modulates the immune response, thereby inducing susceptibility to UC. Acute dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) colitis was induced in Clcn5 knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice. Colitis, monitored by disease activity index, histological activity index, and myeloperoxidase activity were significantly elevated in DSS-induced Clcn5 KO mice compared with those in WT mice. Comprehensive serum multiplex cytokine profiling demonstrated a heightened Th1–Th17 profile (increased TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-17) in DSS-induced Clcn5 KO mice compared with that in WT DSS colitis mice. Interestingly, Clcn5 KO mice maintained on a high vitamin D diet attenuated DSS-induced colitis. Immunofluorescence and Western blot analyses of colonic mucosa validated the systemic cytokine patterns and further revealed enhanced activation of the NF-κB pathway in DSS-induced Clcn5 KO mice compared with those in WT mice. Intriguingly, high baseline levels of IL-6 and phospho-IκB were observed in Clcn5 KO mice, suggesting a novel immunopathogenic role for the functional defects that result from the loss of Clc-5. Our studies demonstrate that the loss of Clc-5 1) exhibits IL-6–mediated immunopathogenesis, 2) significantly exacerbated DSS-induced colitis, which is influenced by dietary factors, including vitamin D, and 3) portrays distinct NF-κB–modulated Th1–Th17 immune dysregulation, implying a role for CLC-5 in the immunopathogenesis of UC.