bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oviposition Preference ofBotanophilaFlies (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) Towards Stroma Size ofEpichloë(Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae) Hosts
Authors: Górzyńska K , Olszanowski Z , Leuchtmann A , Lembicz M
Published: February 2014

Stromata of grass-infecting fungi from the genus Epichloë (Clavicipitaceae: Ascomycota) serve as a food source and egg-laying surface for flies of genus Botanophila (Diptera: Anthomyiidae). Larger stromata should make it possible for flies to lay more eggs and provide more food to offspring. This hypothesis was tested in four different grass—fungus associations that occur in central Poland. In two of these associations, Epichloë bromicola on Elymus repens and Epichloë typhina on Puccinellia distans, flies showed a preference for longer stromata, and egg density on these stromata was significantly higher than in the other two associations.Anegative correlation between egg density and offspring success was observed in only one association, E. bromicola-El. repens. However, offspring success in this association did not differ significantly from offspring success in associations with lower egg density on the stromata, in which flies showed no preference for the stroma length. Long-term observations (2000–2010) of fly—fungus interaction in the E. typhina—P. distans association showed that fly preference toward stroma length may vary over time but with no clear tendency. No significant correlations were found between the larval density on a stroma and either larval weight or mortality. The results of the current study question our assumptions that egg laying depends on the stroma length and the fate of eggs laid (i.e., their hatching success and the condition, in terms of weight and survival, of the larvae) on egg density. It is possible that flies choose stromata based on attributes other than size.
Effects of Food Plants of Host Herbivores on Development of a Midgut-Resident Tachinid Parasitoid,Compsilura concinnata(Diptera: Tachinidae), and Two Hemocoel-Resident Parasitoids
Authors: Ichiki Ryoko T , Tabata Jun , Nakahara Yuichi , Kainoh Yooichi , Nakamura Satoshi
Published: February 2014

The tachinid fly Compsilura concinnata (Meigen) parasitizes insect herbivores throughout the larval period and develops in the midgut. Because the fly larva is directly exposed to the host's gut contents, including nutrients and toxic allelochemicals in the plants eaten by the host, it may be more susceptible to variation in the chemistry of the host's food plants. To evaluate this potential disadvantage of midgut parasitism, we compared the influence of foods of the lepidopteran host Mythimna separata (Walker) on the development of endoparasitoids between C. concinnata and two other species, the tachinid Exorista japonica Townsend and the braconid Cotesia kariyai (Watanabe), whose larvae develop in the host's hemocoel. When the parasitized hosts consumed one of four kinds of plants, all three parasitoid species showed a higher survival, a larger body size, and faster development on two natural food plants (maize and sorghum) than on two alternative foods (kidney bean and Japanese radish). Our results suggest that the development of C. concinnata during midgut parasitism was affected by the host's food species, but that the effects did not differ from those for endoparasitoids with hemocoel parasitism.
Revision of the Family Helotidae (Coleoptera: Cucujoidea): IX. The Culta Species Group and a Checklist of Neohelota Species
Authors: Lee Chi-Feng , Votruba Petr
Published: February 2014

Members of the culta species group of the genus Neohelota Ohta are revised. Ten species are recognized, including a new species described herein, N. barclayi sp. nov., from China, India, Laos, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. The following synonymies are proposed: Helota klapperichiMader, 1955, as a junior synonym of Neohelota chinensis (Mader, 1955); Helota taiwanaOhta, 1929, as a junior synonym of Neohelota boulei (Ritsema, 1915); Helota gestroi Ritsema, 1891, Helota sharpi Ritsema, 1915, Helota similisLee and Satô, 2006, as junior synonyms of Neohelota pusilla (Oberthür, 1883); Helotanotata Ritsema, 1891, and Helota severini Ritsma, 1893, as junior synonyms of Neohelota cula (Olliff, 1883); Helota hopei Ritsema, 1915, as a junior synonym of Neohelota fryi (Ritsema, 1894); Helota olliffii Ritsema, 1899, as a junior synonym of Neohelota boysii (Ritsema, 1889); Helota bretaudeaui Ritsema, 1894, as a junior synonym of Neohelota affinis (Ritsema, 1891); Helota jordanii Ritsema, 1899, and HelotaindicatorRitsema, 1905, as junior synonyms of Neohelota dubia (Ritsema, 1891). Lectotypes are designated for Helota chinensisMader, 1955, H. klapperichi, Helota boulei Ritsema, 1915, Helotaconsanguinea Ritsema, 1915, H. sharpi, H. notata, H. severini, H. olliffii, H. bretaudeaui, and H. jordanii. A key for the culta species group is provided. Illustrations of diagnostic characters are provided for all species.
Comparative Study of the Microanatomy of Four Species of Harvestmen (Opiliones, Eupnoi)
Authors: Rodriguez Andrea L , Townsend Victor R , Proud Daniel N
Published: February 2014

Most species descriptions of harvestmen from Central America that belong to the suborder Eupnoi are based on characters such as total body length, relative size of leg segments, coloration of the body and legs, and armature of the eye mound and dorsal scutum. Characters based on reproductive morphology and microanatomical structures are generally absent from most taxonomic works. Not surprisingly, the taxonomy of these harvestmen from this region requires extensive revision. In an effort to identify novel characters, we used scanning electron microscopy to compare the morphology of somatic and reproductive structures of Prionostemma vittatum (Roewer, 1910), Metopilio niger (Goodnight and Goodnight, 1942), and Metopilio ornatipes (Banks, 1909). Specifically, we investigated the morphology of the ocularium, ozopore, dorsal scutum, genital plate, pedipalp, spiracular opening on tibia II, ovipositor, and penis. We compared the morphology of these Neotropical taxa with that of a temperate sclerosomatid species, Leiobunum formosum (Wood, 1870). In general, we observed interspecific variation in the surface texture of the cuticle and the distribution of setae on the body and appendages. Potentially informative characters include cuticular structures associated with the ocularium, anterior propeltidium, meso- and metapeltidium, dorsal scutum, genital plate, pedipalp, and penis. We also observed intersexual variation with respect to morphology of Spicer's tarsal organ and the claw of the pedipalp.
Temperature-Dependent Development of the Five Psyllophagous Ladybird Predators of Agonoscena pistaciae (Hemiptera: Psyllidae)
Authors: Jalali M Amin , Mehrnejad M Reza , Kontodimas Dimitris C
Published: February 2014

The temperature-dependent development of five psyllophagous ladybirds, Adalia bipunctata (L.), Coccinella undecimpunctata aegyptica (Reiche), Exochomus nigripennis (Erichson), Hippodamia variegata (Goeze), and Oenopia conglobata contaminata (Menetries) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), was studied on the common pistachio psylla, Agonoscena pistaciae Burckhardt and Lauterer (Hemiptera: Psyllidae), in the laboratory. The lower developmental thresholds for total development (egg to adult) of the predators ranged from 10.9 (O. c. contaminata) to 14°C (C. u. aegyptica). The lowest and highest degree-day (DD) requirement values for total development of the studied cocinellids were estimated for C. u. aegyptica (166.67 DD) and E. nigripennis (344.83 DD), respectively. The optimum temperature for development of the studied ladybirds, calculated using third-order polynomial and Lactin models, was in the range of 27.5–30°C. This study showed that all the five psyllophagous ladybirds successfully complete their development in a wide range of temperatures from 17.5 to 30°C, indicating their high potential for use in biological control programs against A. pistaciae.
Bemisia tabaci(Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Species Complex from Cotton Cultivars: A Comparative Study of Population Density, Morphology, and Molecular Variations
Authors: Thomas Asha , Anand Kar , Rebijith K B , Asokan R , Ramamurthy V V
Published: February 2014

Morphological and molecular variations of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) on cotton cultivars having varying trichome density were evaluated at New Delhi, India. The study evaluates the role of host plant nature on puparia and putative species groups of the B. tabaci species complex. More specifically, the study was done to explore the host plant characters and their effect on the population density, morphology of the puparia, and to identify the putative species groups of the B. tabaci species complex occurring on cotton. Population density was observed to be higher in cultivars with less trichome density. Studies on the puparia showed statistically significant variations on different cotton cultivars (P < 0.01), which was supported by scattergraphs derived from principal components and canonical discriminant analysis. Statistical analysis revealed the influence of trichome density on population density of B. tabaci. Sequence analyses using mitochondrial cyctochrome oxidase I confirmed the presence of three putative species Asia 1, Asia II 1, and Asia II 7 on the cultivars of cotton. The current study revealed that genetic variation is not influenced the variations in the trichome density and morphological variation.
Calculation and Thematic Mapping of Demographic Parameters forHomalodisca vitripennis(Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in California
Authors: Pilkington Leigh J , Lewis Michael , Jeske Daniel , Hoddle Mark S
Published: February 2014

The reproductive and developmental biology, including life tables, for Homalodisca vitripennis (Germar) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae), the glassy-winged sharpshooter, were quantiﬁed at four constant temperatures in the laboratory: 20, 25, 30, and 33°C. Mean time from egg oviposition to adult death and mean female adult longevity was greatest at 25°C. Mean total progeny production was greatest at 25°C at 214 eggs per individual. The percentage of females ovipositing at each experimental temperature was relatively low at 22, 46, and 56% at 20, 25, and 30°C, respectively. No oviposition occurred at 33°C. Upper, lower, and optimal developmental thresholds were calculated for all life stages, and for egg to adult emergence these were 35.95, 13.99, and 29.45°C, respectively. Key demographic parameters were calculated and intrinsic rate of increase and net reproductive rate were highest at 30 and 25°Cat 0.04 and 40.21 d, respectively.Meangeneration times and population doubling times were lowest at 25 (97.66 d) and 30°C (15.51 d). Modeling of demographic parameters indicated that approximately three generations of H. vitripennis per year are needed for the existence of permanent populations. Historical weather data were used to map the number of generations and estimate net reproductive rates for H. vitripennis throughout California. Data presented here will be useful for modeling and estimating the possible invasion success of H. vitripennis in areas other than California.
Neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX for Borderline Resectable Pancreas Cancer: A New Treatment Paradigm?
Authors: Christians Kathleen K. , Tsai Susan , Mahmoud Anna , Ritch Paul , Thomas James P. , Wiebe Lauren , Kelly Tracy , Erickson Beth , Wang Huamin , Evans Douglas B. , George Ben
Published: February 2014

Background.

Borderline resectable pancreatic cancer is best treated by multimodality therapy. FOLFIRINOX (5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin, irinotecan, and leucovorin) tripled the response rate and significantly increased median survival for patients with advanced pancreatic cancer and shows promise for neoadjuvant use. Toxicity concerns prompted a careful analysis of our initial FOLFIRINOX experience.

Methods.

All patients diagnosed with borderline resectable, biopsy-proven pancreatic adenocarcinoma treated with neoadjuvant FOLFIRINOX between July 2010 and December 2012 were reviewed. Primary outcome was surgical resectability. Secondary outcomes were treatment-related toxicities and survival.

Results.

FOLFIRINOX followed by gemcitabine- or capecitabine-based chemoradiation was initiated in 18 patients. The most common grade 3 or 4 toxicities during chemotherapy were gastrointestinal, including nausea/emesis (n = 5), weight loss (n = 3) and diarrhea (n = 2), and hematologic (n = 2; neutropenia); five patients (36%) required a total of six admissions. Neoadjuvant therapy was completed in 15 of 18 patients (83%), and 12 (67%) underwent pancreatectomy (10 Whipple, 2 total pancreatectomy) including portal vein resection/reconstruction in 10 (83%). Disease progression precluded surgery in 6 of the 18 patients (33%). All 12 resected patients had negative (R0) margins. Only 2 of 12 (17%) were node positive (median node count: 26.5 [range: 15–39]). There were no in-hospital or 30-day mortalities and no clinical pancreatic leaks or reoperations. Of the 12 patients who completed all intended therapy, 7 (58.3%) are alive, including 5 who have no evidence of disease (median months from diagnosis: 22 months [range: 18–35 months). The six patients who did not complete all planned therapy are deceased (months from diagnosis: 6.9–17.5 months).

Conclusion.

FOLFIRINOX followed by chemoradiation as neoadjuvant therapy for borderline resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma is safe, and our initial experience suggests favorable resection rates compared with previous reports in this high-risk patient population.
Effect of Place of Residence and Treatment on Survival Outcomes in Patients With Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma in British Columbia
Authors: Lee Benny , Goktepe Ozge , Hay Kevin , Connors Joseph M. , Sehn Laurie H. , Savage Kerry J. , Shenkier Tamara , Klasa Richard , Gerrie Alina , Villa Diego
Published: February 2014

Background.

We examined the relationship between location of residence at the time of diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and health outcomes in a geographically large Canadian province with publicly funded, universally available medical care.

Patients and Methods.

The British Columbia Cancer Registry was used to identify all patients 18–80 years of age diagnosed with DLBCL between January 2003 and December 2008. Home and treatment center postal codes were used to determine urban versus rural status and driving distance to access treatment.

Results.

We identified 1,357 patients. The median age was 64 years (range: 18–80 years), 59% were male, 50% were stage III/IV, 84% received chemotherapy with curative intent, and 32% received radiotherapy. There were 186 (14%) who resided in rural areas, 141 (10%) in small urban areas, 183 (14%) in medium urban areas, and 847 (62%) in large urban areas. Patient and treatment characteristics were similar regardless of location. Five-year overall survival (OS) was 62% for patients in rural areas, 44% in small urban areas, 53% in medium urban areas, and 60% in large urban areas (p = .018). In multivariate analysis, there was no difference in OS between rural and large urban area patients (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.0; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.7–1.4), although patients in small urban areas (HR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.0–2.0) and medium urban areas (HR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.0–1.9) had worse OS than those in large urban areas.

Conclusion.

Place of residence at diagnosis is associated with survival of patients with DLBCL in British Columbia, Canada. Rural patients have similar survival to those in large urban areas, whereas patients living in small and medium urban areas experience worse outcomes.
Stress relaxation coefficient and formulation for soft soils
Authors: Yin Z.-Y. , Zhu Q.-Y. , Yin J.-H. , Ni Q.
Published: February 2014

Current studies rarely investigate the stress relaxation behaviour of soft soils. This paper proposes a practically useful coefficient with a formulation based on the behaviour of stress relaxation under one-dimensional conditions. Firstly, the stress relaxation coefficient is proposed after summarising stress relaxation test results according to the linear relationship between the vertical stress and time in a double logarithmic plot. Secondly, from the newly developed rate-dependency based elasto-viscoplastic formulations, an analytical solution for stress relaxation is derived. A unique relationship connecting the stress relaxation coefficient, the secondary compression coefficient and the rate-dependency coefficient is then obtained. The applicability of the stress relaxation formulation with its key coefficient to determine time-dependent parameters is finally validated with published experimental results on reconstituted illite and Berthierville clay.
Cytotoxicity of the Ga-containing coatings on biodegradable magnesium alloys
Authors: Nguyen Anika , Kunert Maik , Hort Norbert , Schrader Christian , Weisser Jürgen , Schmidt Jürgen
Published: February 2014

Biodegradable magnesium alloys, Mg-0·8wt%Ca and Mg-10wt%Gd, have been coated with gallium-containing electrolyte using plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO). Thus, the PEO procedure is used as a synthesis tool, to create an appropriate content in the layers. This is a first article on the examination of such layers. One part of the gallium-coated samples was additionally sealed with biodegradable poly(L-lactide-co-caprolactone) (PLLC). Gallium content, morphology and thickness of the coatings were evaluated. Special focus was set in relation to the cytotoxicity of the coating, on the two different magnesium alloys and the additional sealing with PLLC. Cytotoxicity was tested using live/dead staining of MC3T3-E1 fibroblasts and by WST-1 assay, cell differentiation by alkaline phosphatase measurement. It could be shown that the gallium-ion concentration in the PEO layer was higher for Mg-10wt%Gd than that of Mg-0·8wt%Ca, which caused a significant difference in the cytotoxic effects toward MC3T3-E1 cells. Still in all cytotoxic tests, Mg-10wt%Gd showed no to low cytotoxic levels, whereby Mg-0·8wt%Ca showed moderate results. Furthermore, it could be proved that an additional PLLC sealing benefits the cell adhesion and thus promotes the cytocompatibility of the coating.
Health in perspective: framing motivational factors for personal sanitation in urban slums in Nairobi, Kenya, using anchored best–worst scaling
Authors: Lagerkvist Carl Johan , Kokko Suvi , Karanja Nancy
Published: February 2014

Severe health, safety and environmental hazards are being created by the growing population of urban poor in low-income countries due to lack of access to sanitation and to inadequate existing sanitation systems. We developed a multi-faceted motivational framework to examine the constituents that explain user motivation regarding a personalised sanitation system. In 2012 we interviewed slum dwellers in Nairobi, Kenya, to estimate individual motivational factor importance rankings from anchored best–worst scaling (ABWS) using hierarchical Bayesian methods. We found that personal safety, avoidance of discomfort with shared toilets, cleanliness and convenience for children were ranked of highest importance. Motivational factors related to health were only relatively highly ranked. Thus factors contributing to overall individual wellbeing, beyond health benefits, drive adoption and use of the low-cost personal sanitation solution studied. This suggests that non-health benefits of low-cost sanitation solutions should be better acknowledged and communicated to raise awareness and encourage adoption of improved sanitation in urban slums. These findings may help develop policies to promote personal sanitation, improve public health and safety and reduce environmental risks.
Developing behaviour change communication for improving faecal sludge management in Bhutan
Authors: Halcrow G. , Yetsho T. , Nguyen N. , Tshering G.
Published: February 2014

Approaches to improve faecal sludge management practices and on-site sanitation services can better be supported through an understanding of the behavioural determinants and consumer preferences for the services. This practice paper describes a process in Bhutan in which stakeholders collaborated to carry out formative research to identify motivations and barriers to improved septic tank management by building owners in Thimphu City. Using a sanitation behaviour change framework, the findings focused on prioritised behavioural determinants of knowledge of septic tank management and services, willingness to pay and the use of enforcements. The research findings were then used to develop a practical yet evidence-based behaviour change communication strategy for the City in 2012 that aimed to improve safe and timely emptying practices, improve services and increase demand from households, business and institutions.
Exploring the methodology of participatory design to create appropriate sanitation technologies in rural Malawi
Authors: Cole Ben , Pinfold John , Ho Goen , Anda Martin
Published: February 2014

The methodologies of demand-led sanitation programmes (including community-led total sanitation [CLTS] and sanitation marketing) encourage participation of users in the design of appropriate sanitation facilities. There has been limited examination of the application of established methodologies in participatory design in the sanitation sector. This paper describes and reflects upon three case studies that applied established participatory design methodologies to create sanitation technologies in rural Malawi. Participants of the design sessions represented two groups: (i) researcher–designers (government staff); and (ii) users (local builders and householders). The methodology created a space to develop a common language between the two groups and allowed an exploration of tensions about the use of sanitation hardware subsidies. The design sessions created a number of innovations including corbelling structures, trapezium shaped bricks and reinforcement of wooden frame structures with sandbags. The paper critically reflects on the processes of participatory design in relation to power, ownership and continued participation.
Beyond ‘improved’ towards ‘safe and sustainable’ urban sanitation: assessing the design, management and functionality of sanitation in poor communities of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Jenkins M. W. , Cumming O. , Scott B. , Cairncross S.
Published: February 2014

This study assessed sanitation access in rapidly expanding informal settlements in Dar es Salaam (Dar) against eight proposed indicators of hygienic safety, sustainability and functionality, and in relation to the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) ‘improved’ sanitation definition. Information was collected on toilet facility designs, management and functionality through a structured interview and observations at 662 randomly selected residential properties across 35 unplanned, low-income sub-wards of Dar. Trends in access and associations with sharing, occupancy, latrine replacement, income, education and location factors were considered through statistical analyses. Surveyed sub-wards were open-defecation free. While 56% of households used a facility that met the MDG improved technology definition, only 8% had a functional facility that could be considered as hygienically safe and sustainable sanitation. Safe, sustainable, functioning sanitation access was 2.6 times greater among the richest quintile than the two poorest quintiles. Very poor sanitation services among Dar's urban poor arise from widespread lack of access to hygienically safe pit emptying services, unhygienic designs and functionality problems (affecting 67, 55 and 29%, respectively). As new goals and targets beyond 2015 are discussed, these findings may have important implications for defining what constitutes ‘improved’ sanitation for poor populations living in unplanned informal settlements.
Fate of hydrocarbon pollutants in source and non-source control sustainable drainage systems
Authors: Roinas Georgios , Mant Cath , Williams John B.
Published: February 2014

Sustainable drainage (SuDs) is an established method for managing runoff from developments, and source control is part of accepted design philosophy. However, there are limited studies into the contribution source control makes to pollutant removal, especially for roads. This study examines organic pollutants, total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), in paired source and non-source control full-scale SuDs systems. Sites were selected to cover local roads, trunk roads and housing developments, with a range of SuDs, including porous asphalt, swales, detention basins and ponds. Soil and water samples were taken bi-monthly over 12 months to assess pollutant loads. Results show first flush patterns in storm events for solids, but not for TPH. The patterns of removal for specific PAHs were also different, reflecting varying physico-chemical properties. The potential of trunk roads for pollution was illustrated by peak runoff for TPH of > 17,000 μg/l. Overall there was no significant difference between pollutant loads from source and non-source control systems, but the dynamic nature of runoff means that longer-term data are required. The outcomes of this project will increase understanding of organic pollutants behaviour in SuDs. This will provide design guidance about the most appropriate systems for treating these pollutants.
Adsorption performance and mechanism for removal of Cd(II) from aqueous solutions by D001 cation-exchange resin
Authors: Zheng Yuqiang , Xiong Chunhua , Yao Caiping , Ye Fangyong , Jiang Jianxiong , Zheng Xuming , Zheng Qunxiong
Published: February 2014

The adsorption and desorption properties of D001 resin for Cd(II) has been investigated. Batch studies were carried out with various pH, contact time, temperature and initial concentrations, and then column studies were conducted. The results showed that the optimal adsorption condition was at pH value of 3.0 in HAc-NaAc medium. The resin exhibited a high Cd(II) uptake of 185.8 mg/g at 298 K. The apparent activation energy Ea is 5.05 kJ/mol and the sorption thermodynamic parameters are ΔH = 21.1 kJ/mol, ΔS = 0.122 kJ/(mol K) and ΔG298K = −15.3 kJ/mol, which indicated that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic. Compared with the Freundlich isotherm, the sorption of Cd(II) obeys the Langmuir isotherm better. The Thomas model was delineated here to predict the breakthrough curves based on the experimental column study data. Furthermore, the resin could be regenerated through the desorption of the Cd(II) anions using 1 mol/L HCl solution and could be reused to adsorb again. The infrared spectroscopic technique was undertaken. Compared with other absorbents, D001 resin was relatively low cost and was effective in removing Cd(II) ions.
The water footprint of Milan
Authors: Vanham D. , Bidoglio G.
Published: February 2014

This study quantifies the water footprint of consumption (WFcons) and production (WFprod) of Milan. The current WFcons amounts to 6,139 l/cap/d (a volume of 2.93 km3 annually), of which 52 l/cap/d (1%) is attributed to domestic water, 448 l/cap/d (7%) to the consumption of industrial products and 5,639 l/cap/d (92%) to the consumption of agricultural products. The WFprod is 52 l/cap/d. Milan is thus a net virtual water importer, predominately through the import of agricultural products. These are produced outside city borders, both in Italy and abroad. This shows the dependency of city dwellers on water resources from other river basins. In addition, the WFcons for a healthy diet (based on Mediterranean Food-Based Dietary Guidelines) and a vegetarian diet are analysed. The current Milanese diet consists of too much sugar, crop oils, meat, animal fats, milk and milk products and not enough cereals, rice, potatoes, vegetables and fruit. The latter two diets result in substantial WFcons reductions: −29% (to 4,339 l/cap/d) for a healthy diet and −41% (to 3,631 l/cap/d) for a vegetarian diet. Indeed, a lot of water could be saved by Milan citizens through a change in their diet. A sustainable city should account for its impacts beyond its borders.
The impact of stormwater source-control strategies on the (low) flow regime of urban catchments
Authors: Hamel Perrine , Fletcher Tim D.
Published: February 2014

Stormwater management strategies increasingly recognise the need to emulate the pre-development flow regime, in addition to reducing pollutant concentrations and loads. However, it is unclear whether current design approaches for stormwater source-control techniques are effective in restoring the whole flow regime, and in particular low flows, towards their pre-development levels. We therefore modelled and compared a range of source-control stormwater management strategies, including some specifically tailored towards enhancing baseflow processes. The strategies were assessed based on the total streamflow volume and three low flow metrics. Strategies based on harvesting tanks showed much greater volume reduction than those based on raingardens. Strategies based on a low flow rate release, aimed at mimicking natural baseflow, failed to completely restore the baseflow regime. We also found that the sensitivity of the low flow metrics to the proportion of catchment treated varied amongst metrics, illustrating the importance of metrics selection in the assessment of stormwater strategies. In practice, our results suggest that realistic scenarios using low flow release from source-control techniques may not be able to fully restore the low flow regime, at least for perennial streams. However, a combination of feasibly-sized tanks and raingardens is likely to restore the baseflow regime to a great extent, while also benefitting water quality through the retention and filtration processes.
Granularity determination of activated sludge through on-line profiles by means of case-based reasoning
Authors: Berjaga Xavier , Coma Marta , Meléndez Joaquim , Puig Sebastià , Colprim Jesús , Colomer Joan
Published: February 2014

Aerobic granulation from floccular sludge is difficult to detect in first stages with the naked eye. This work proposes a combination of multi-way principal components and case-based reasoning to predict the granulation state of a sequencing batch reactor, based solely on the on-line registered profiles of common sensors (i.e. pH, dissolved oxygen and oxidation-reduction potential). The methodology is able to discriminate between two active sludge granularities (floccular and granular). Two different scenarios are presented: one in which both granularities are present, and another scenario for which the granular state is not initially available. Analysis reported pH as the key variable in the transition between both states according to its variation, and that, in general, the granularity of the process can be correctly predicted at the end of the anaerobic phase. This methodology improves process monitoring capabilities during granulation and is an on-line alternative to a microscope analysis before the batch release.
Nutrient-based ecological consideration of a temporary river catchment affected by a reservoir operation to facilitate efficient management
Authors: Tzoraki Ourania A. , Dörflinger Gerald , Kathijotes Nicholas , Kontou Artemis
Published: February 2014

The water quality status of the Kouris river in Cyprus was examined in order to fulfil the requirements for ecological quality as defined by the Water Framework Directive-2000/60/EC. Nitrate concentration (mean value) was increased in the Limnatis (2.8 mg L−1) tributary in comparison with the Kryos (2.1 mg L−1) and Kouris (1.0 mg L−1) tributaries depicting the influence of anthropogenic activities. The total maximum daily nutrients loads (TMDLs) based on the flow duration curves approach, showed that nutrients loads exceeded threshold values (33.3–75.6% in all hydrologic condition classes in the Kouris tributary, and 65–78% in the Limnatis tributary) especially under low flow conditions. The TMDL graph is intended to guide the temporal schedule for chemical sampling in all hydrologic classes. Kouris reservoir is an oligotrophic system, strongly influenced by the river’s flash-flood character but also by the implemented management practices. Kouris river outflow, which was reduced to one-tenth in the post dam period altered the wetland hydrologic network and contributed to the decrease of aquifer thickness. Continuous evaluation and update of the River Basin Management Plans will be the basis for the sustainable development of the Kouris basin.
The effect of flow velocity on the distribution and composition of extracellular polymeric substances in biofilms and the detachment mechanism of biofilms
Authors: Wang Chao , Miao Lingzhan , Hou Jun , Wang Peifang , Qian Jin , Dai Shanshan
Published: February 2014

Flume experiments were conducted to investigate the distribution and composition of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in biofilms and the detachment mechanism of biofilms grown under different flow velocity conditions. The results of biofilm growth kinetics showed that the growth trends were coincident with the logistic growth model. The growth kinetics parameters reached their maximum under intermediate velocity (IV) condition. Biofilms exhibited different profiles of EPS composition and distribution, depending on the flow conditions in which the biofilms were grown. The amounts of total polysaccharide and total protein in the thin biofilm (high velocity condition 2 – HV2) were both generally greater than those in the thick biofilm (IV). As compared to the heterogeneous distribution of EPS in the thick biofilms (IV), the EPS in the thin biofilms (HV2) exhibited more homogeneous distribution, and the bound EPS in the thin biofilms (HV2) were much greater than those in the thick biofilms (IV). From the detachment tests, an inverse relationship was observed between the proportion of detached biomass and the value of flow velocity during growth. Biofilms grown under higher velocities showed stronger cohesion than those grown under lower velocities. Therefore, water velocity during biofilm growth conditioned the distribution and composition of EPS, as well as its detachment characteristics under higher shear stress.
Sonochemical degradation of chlorobenzene in the presence of additives
Authors: Gole Vitthal L. , Gogate Parag R.
Published: February 2014

The present work deals with establishing the pathway for the selection of additives for intensification of the sonolytic degradation of chlorobenzene. The degradation of chlorobenzene has been investigated in the presence of different additives such as CuO, TiO2, nano-TiO2 and NaCl. The reaction has been monitored in terms of the concentration of the parent pollutant as well as the extent of mineralization. The first-order kinetic rate constant for the removal of chlorobenzene has been evaluated for different loadings of additives. It has been observed that the extent of degradation and mineralization was maximum in the presence of nano-TiO2 and minimum in the presence of CuO. A three-step mechanism has been developed for the degradation of chlorobenzene based on the identification of intermediates. The removal of chloride from the benzene ring due to pyrolysis was the dominant mechanism with minimal contribution from the attack of hydroxyl radical present in the bulk of solution. The oxidation products also react subsequently with the hydroxyl radicals resulting in mineralization. The rate of mineralization has been quantified in terms of total organic carbon removal. The observed trends for the mineralization confirm that the extent of mineralization depends on the ease of generation of hydroxyl radicals.
The semi-sewer river: hydraulic backwater effects and combined sewer overflow reverse flows in Central Brussels reduce deoxygenation impact further downstream
Authors: Le H. M. , Petrovic D. , Verbanck M. A.
Published: February 2014

In 2011 and 2012 the dissolved oxygen content in the low-discharge river Zenne was monitored continuously, every 5 minutes, downstream of Brussels city centre, making it possible to document the complex mechanisms by which combined sewer overflow (CSO) spills affect both the hydraulics and the oxygen balance of the hydrosystem. In addition to oxygen demand impacts, proportions of water volumes are such that the oxygen-devoid sewage water discharged from CSOs contributes significantly to the oxygen deficit observed in the river further downstream. It is shown that ensuing unexpected hydraulic behaviour, such as a full river-flow reversal, can explain the dual nature of oxygen sag following major CSO events. At times the semi-sewer river plays the role of an in-stream stormwater tank, effectively attenuating the environmental impacts of Brussels CSOs.
Characterization of the Microbial Community in the Rhizosphere ofPhragmites australis(Cav.) Trin ex. Steudel Growing in the Sun Island Wetland
Authors: Ma Fang , Wu Jieting , Wang Li , Yang Jixian , Li Shiyang , Li Zhe , Zhag Xue
Published: February 2014

Rhizospheric microorganisms are important for environmental conservancy. The constancy and variability of the microorganisms in the rhizosphere of Phragmites australis in relation to the spatiotemporal variations in wetland ecosystems were studied. During the peak and trough of the vegetative period of the Phragmites australis growing across the hydrologic gradients of the Sun Island Wetland, Biolog and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) were used to investigate the rhizospheric microbial characteristics. Both methods demonstrated that the microbial activity, richness, and diversity decreased from summer to autumn. However, these properties did not show significant correlation with hydrologic gradient, except that the genetic richness and diversity of the fungi decreased with it. Cluster analysis also demonstrated that the rhizospheric microbial community seemed to be largely affected by a vegetative period. In addition, this research was extended to a broader range of determining the universal microorganisms, which showed notable adaptability.
Mechanical properties of polyvinyl alcohol sponge under different strain rates
Authors: Karimi Alireza , Navidbakhsh Mahdi , Yousefi Hossein
Published: February 2014

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a suitable material for biomedical and pharmaceutical applications. This paper presents a scientific study on the stiffness, strength, and energy absorption characteristics of a fabricated PVA sponge under different strain rates with a view to using it as an alternative biodegradable and biocompatible material. A range of tensile tests, such as stress failure and cyclic, on PVA sponge have been carried out. The stress–strain curves in all strain rates (1, 20, 100 mm min−1) indicated a near constant plateau stress over a long strain range, which is ideal for energy absorption applications. It was found that the PVA sponge biomaterial exhibited remarkable stiffness, strength, and energy absorption capacities that are comparable to those of some biomaterials with the same density range. PVA sponge can also bear suitable stress both at low and high strain rates which enables it to be implemented in most tissue engineering scaffolds.
Effect of Ni-based conversion coating and Ni–P electroless plating on the bonding process of pure Al and AZ31 alloy
Authors: Jie Jinchuan , Zhao Jialei , Chen Hang , Fu Ying , Cao Zhiqiang , Li Tingju
Published: February 2014

For the first time, the present study investigates the preparation of Al/Mg bimetal using Ni-based conversion plating and Ni–P electroless plating by means of diffusion bonding. In this study, AZ31 alloy was coated with an Ni-based interlayer by conversion plating and an Ni–P interlayer by electroless plating; the Al/Mg bimetallic materials were prepared by diffusion bonding in an air atmosphere. For conversion plating, the thickness of the Ni-based layer is several hundred nanometers. When heat-treated at 450 °C for 90 min, most of the interfaces between Al and AZ31 alloy bond together well. For electroless plating, the thickness of the Ni – P layer is about 10 μm for a plating time of 60 min. When heat-treated at 450 °C for 150 min, good bonding between pure Al and AZ31 can be obtained.
Microwave-assisted modulated synthesis of zirconium-based metal–organic framework (Zr-MOF) for hydrogen storage applications
Authors: Ren Jianwei , Segakweng Tshiamo , Langmi Henrietta W. , Musyoka Nicholas M. , North Brian C. , Mathe Mkhulu , Bessarabov Dmitri
Published: February 2014

Zirconium-based metal–organic framework (Zr-MOF) was synthesized using a microwave-assisted modulated method in a short reaction time of 5 min. The Zr-MOF material was highly crystalline with well-defined octahedral shaped crystals, and it exhibited comparable hydrogen storage capacity to Zr-MOF of similar specific surface area synthesized using conventional methods with much longer synthesis time.
Imaging of nano-seeded nucleation in cement pastes by X-ray diffraction tomography
Authors: Artioli Gilberto , Valentini Luca , Dalconi Maria Chiara , Parisatto Matteo , Voltolini Marco , Russo Vincenzo , Ferrari Giorgio
Published: February 2014

The 3D phase distribution of cement pastes evolves during hydration and controls the rheology and mechanical properties of the paste. Synchrotron powder-diffraction micro-tomographic imaging is here employed to assess the cement phase spatial distribution in a totally non-invasive way. This technique can be used to produce distribution maps of the phases present in the hydrating cement paste. The method is applied to an ordinary Portland cement, hydrated in pure water or in the presence of nucleation seeds. The quantitative description of the phase spatial distribution by radial distribution functions allows the discrimination of different nucleation mechanisms.
Combined use of micro computed tomography and histology to evaluate the regenerative capacity of bone grafting materials
Authors: Stalder Anja K. , Ilgenstein Bernd , Chicherova Natalia , Deyhle Hans , Beckmann Felix , Müller Bert , Hieber Simone E.
Published: February 2014

Pre-clinical animal models are commonly used to evaluate the osteogenic potential of bone grafting materials in-vivo. Based on the histology analysis, the currently commercially available bone grafting materials show comparable results with respect to biocompatibility, incorporation and remodeling. In the present pilot study we introduce a methodology to compare calcium phosphate-based bone grafting materials from world-leading companies in clinical trials and analyze them by means of established histology and synchrotron radiation-based micro computed tomography (SRμCT). The results indicate that the morphology of the bony structures depends on the selected bone grafting material and that an arbitrarily selected histological slice can lead to misleading conclusions. Complementary μCT data can become the basis for the identification of a representative slice. The registration of the selected histological slice with its counterpart in the three-dimensional μCT dataset was performed both visually and automatically with well comparable results. This registration allows for the compilation of a joint histogram to identify anatomical features, which can neither be extracted from histology nor from μCT data on their own. Accordingly, μCT will become an integral part of studies on the efficacy of bone augmentation materials and beyond.
Assessing the grain structure of highly X-ray absorbing metallic alloys
Authors: Bormann Therese , Beckmann Felix , Schinhammer Michael , Deyhle Hans , Wild Michael de , Müller Bert
Published: February 2014

Selective laser melting allows the fabrication of NiTi implants with pre-defined, complex shapes. The control of the process parameters regulates the arrangement of the granular microstructure of the NiTi alloy. We prepared specimens with elongated grains, which build a sound basis for diffraction contrast tomography experiments using synchrotron radiation and for electron backscatter diffraction measurements. Both approaches reveal the orientation and size of the individual grains within the specimen. Still, electron backscatter diffraction is confined to two-dimensional cross-sections while diffraction contrast tomography reveals these microstructural features in three dimensions. We demonstrate that the grains in the selective laser melted specimen, which are oriented along the building direction, do not exhibit a well-defined planar grain orientation but are twisted. These twisted grains give rise to diffraction spots observable for several degrees of specimen rotation simultaneously to the acquisition of tomography data.
Outbreak of bacterial meningitis after spinal anaesthesia in Bangladesh
Authors: Akhtaruzzaman AKM , Akhtar Begum Maksuda Farida , Roy Joysree , Laskar Manzoorul Hoque , Dhar Satyajit , Mandal Md Badrul Alam , Saleh Ahmed Abu
Published: February 2014

Iatrogenic meningitis following spinal anaesthesia is very rare. Recently we have experienced severe headache, vomiting, fever, restlessness, nuchal rigidity and altered level of consciousness 5-6 hours after spinal anaesthesia in one hundred and nineteen patients diagnosed as iatrogenic bacterial meningitis during the period of September 2008 to March 2009. Patients were successfully treated with Inj. Ceftriaxone 2gm BID for 14 days, Inj. Dexamethasone 20mg daily in four divided dose for five days. Purulent CSF, high cell count (1570mm-3), elevated protein level (269mg/dl) and normal glucose (57mg/dl) levels in CSF were noted. There were 5 (4.2%) cases of mortality. No causative organisms were isolated from CSF, blood of the affected patients and anaesthetic agent used for the block. In conclusion, the cause of meningitis was diagnosed as bacterial in origin though no organism was isolated. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsa.v22i1.18084 Journal of BSA, 2009; 22(1): 5-11
Audit of general intensive care unit of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University
Authors: Banik Debabrata , Quamrul AK Huda , Siddique Md Rafayet Ullah , Rahman Md Mizanur , Huda Md Rezaul , Islam Mohammad Sirajul , Akhtaruzzaman AKM
Published: February 2014

All patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of BSMMU between January 2006 and December 2006 on whom data had been entered into the study. A total of 473 admissions with complete records were available. Hospital mortality was 60.6%. Nonsurvivors were older than survivors and had longer ICU stays. Patients admitted from wards had a higher mortality than patients from the operating room/ recovery or the emergency department. Thirty-four percent of patients were in the ICU for >2 days, and they accounted for nearly 81% of bed occupancy. Early identification of patients at risk, both before admission and after discharge from the ICU, may allow treatment to decrease mortality. Research and resources may be best directed at patients who die, despite a relatively low predicted mortality. Many patients die after discharge from ICU and this mortality may be decreased by minimizing inappropriate early discharge to the ward, by the provision of high dependency and step-down units, and by continuing advice and follow-up by the ICU team after the patient has been discharged. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jbsa.v22i1.18095 Journal of BSA, 2009; 22(1): 12-15