bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow Visualization, Critical Heat Flux Enhancement, and Transient Characteristics in Pool Boiling Using Nanofluids
Authors: Hegde Ramakrishna N. , Rao Shrikantha S. , Reddy R. P.
Published: July 2012

This paper presents the experimental outcome of a study of the pool boiling heat transfer characteristics of alumina and CuO nanofluid in distilled water using a 0.19 mm diameter NiCr wire. A series of experiments were conducted in order to visualize the flow, critical heat flux (CHF) enhancement, and transient characteristics of nanofluid. The boiling phenomenon was visualized using a 0.1 g/l concentration of alumina nanofluid. The average bubble diameter was measured and was found to increase with increased heat flux. The average bubble contact angle decreased from 69° during the initial stages of boiling to 33° at CHF. Massive vapour bubbles were observed on the test heater surface near the CHF, inducing vapour blankets and forming hot/dry spots. The increase in the CHF could be well explained by the hot/dry spot theory. Pool boiling experiments conducted using low volume concentrations of CuO-water nanofluid at atmospheric pressure in distilled water showed an increase in the CHF by 30 % at a 0.3 g/l concentration. The transient behaviour of nanofluid, examined by exposing the heater surface at a constant heat flux of 700 kW/m2, indicated CHF enhancement of 5.21 % to 6.77 % for the two time durations. Based on the experimental investigations, it was concluded that the CHF enhancement is due to nanoparticle coating, which changes the thickness of the surface as a function of time and surface wettability and corroborates the hot/dry spot theory.
Fuel Quality Assessment of Ethyl Esters Produced from Vegetable Oils and Their Blends With Petroleum Diesel
Authors: Anastopoulos G. , Kalligeros S. , Zannikos F.
Published: July 2012

Ethanolysis of four different vegetable oils (sunflower, soybean, cotton seed, and used frying oil) was studied using sodium ethoxide as a catalyst. The ester preparation involved a two-step transesterification reaction, followed by purification. The effects of the mass ratio of catalyst to oil, the molar ratio of ethanol to oil, and the reaction temperature were studied on conversion of sunflower oil to optimize the reaction conditions in both stages. The rest of the vegetable oils were converted to ethyl esters under optimum reaction parameters. Ethyl esters of four different types of vegetable oils were blended with the diesel fuel at 2 %, 5 %, 10 %, and 20 %, on a volume basis. The experimental results showed that the densities and viscosities of the blends increased with the increase of biodiesel concentration in the fuel blend. Cold flow properties were negatively affected as ethyl ester content was increasing. Distillation characteristics and cetane indexes were not significantly altered. These results are promising, and ethyl esters can be seen as a viable fully renewable alternative to petroleum diesel.
The microRNA cluster C19MC is deregulated in parathyroid tumours
Authors: Vaira Valentina , Elli Francesca , Forno Irene , Guarnieri Vito , Verdelli Chiara , Ferrero Stefano , Scillitani Alfredo , Vicentini Leonardo , Cetani Filomena , Mantovani Giovanna , Spada Anna , Bosari Silvano , Corbetta Sabrina
Published: July 2012

A subset of over-expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) identified in parathyroid carcinomas (Ca) compared to normal glands belongs to C19MC, a cluster on chromosome 19q13.4 involved in stem cell biology and tumourigenesis. In this study, the expression of C19MC–MIR371–3 clusters and the molecular mechanisms presiding their modulation were investigated in a series of six normal parathyroids, 24 adenomas (Ad), 15 Ca and five matched metastases. The general expression levels of C19MC or MIR371–3 clusters in Ad lesions did not differ from normal glands, while they distinguished Ad from Ca at unsupervised hierarchical cluster analysis (P=0.0008). MIR517C showed the most significant difference in expression between Ca and Ad (P=0.0003) and it positively correlated with serum calcium, parathormone and tumour weight. In regard to the molecular mechanism determining C19MC cluster activation, we could detect C19MC copy number (CN) gain in ten Ca (67%) extending distal to the MIR371–3 cluster in almost all samples. Conversely, only four Ad (16%) showed C19MC amplification, with one case presenting distal genomic aberration to MIR371–3. Globally, CN variations of 19q13.4 loci were significantly associated with MIR517C up-regulation (P=0.006). Opposite to normal glands where C19MC promoter was methylated, hypomethylation occurred in 15 out of 30 analysed tumours. Though the epigenetic status did not correlate with C19MC miRNA expression levels, loss of C19MC promoter methylation was significantly associated with Ca and metastatic disease (P=0.01). In conclusion, C19MC cluster aberrations are a characteristic of Ca with respect to Ad. Altogether, these evidences point towards a role for 19q13.4 miRNA clusters as oncogenes in parathyroid tumourigenesis.
Análise do desempenho motor em tarefas de "timing" antecipatório em idosos praticantes de esportes de interceptação
Authors: Cantieri Francys Paula , Marques Inara
Published: July 2012

O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar o efeito da prática de esporte de interceptação no desempenho em uma tarefa complexa de "timing" antecipatório em idosos. Participaram do estudo 73 indivíduos, distribuídos em três grupos: idosos atletas, idosos não atletas e adultos jovens. A tarefa consistiu na execução de uma sequência de toques em quatro sensores, realizados simultaneamente ao deslocamento do estímulo, de modo que o último toque coincidisse com o acendimento do último diodo. Foram utilizadas três velocidades de acendimento dos diodos (1 m/s, 1,5 m/s, 2,2 m/s), sendo realizadas 10 tentativas em cada velocidade. O desempenho foi analisado por meio do cálculo do erro constante, erro variável e erro absoluto. Os resultados indicaram efeito positivo da prática de esporte sobre o desempenho do "timing" antecipatório em idosos atletas. Houve também, efeito da variação da velocidade do estímulo, com os melhores desempenhos dos grupos na velocidade moderada.
Potential damage assessment in buildings undergoing tilt
Authors: Namazi Eshagh , Mohamad Hisham
Published: July 2012

Estimation of the degree of building damage is a complex problem, because the potential sources of damage are various. The main components of building movement for damage assessment are tilt, angular distortion, horizontal strain and deflection ratio. Some of these parameters are interrelated. In this study, damage criteria are developed that correlate the building damage with the most critical components of movement, namely deflection ratio, horizontal strain and tilt. The building wall is idealised as a simply supported elastic deep beam loaded by both vertical and horizontal forces. Equations of maximum tensile strain within the beam are developed under the concept of limiting tensile strains in order to study the onset of cracking in buildings with various wall dimensions and material properties. A number of case studies of tilted buildings are used to verify the approach.
Micromechanics of dilatancy and critical state in granular matter
Authors: MesaroviC S. DJ. , Padbidri J. M. , Muhunthan B.
Published: July 2012

To understand the microscale mechanisms that govern dilatancy and critical state, the changes in topology of a granular assembly during numerical simulations of quasi-static deformation are analysed. In this article we show that explanations for these unique features of granular matter lie in the interplay of evolving frequency of microscopic topological events (flips) and elastic relaxation of particles, both of which are consequences of the history-dependent organisation of interparticle forces in force chains. Specifically, dilatancy has two components – one is the result of increasing frequency of flips and the other arises from the elementary volume increases that accompany the flips as elastic relaxation. The critical state arises as the balance between the dilation rate and the compaction rate under shear-induced disturbances.
A review on cerium oxide-based electrolytes for ITSOFC
Authors: Arunkumar P. , Meena M. , Babu K. Suresh
Published: July 2012

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) generate electricity at very high efficiency with low to negligible emissions, making them as an attractive option for power generation. Though conventional SOFCs operate at 1000°C or more, current research is focused on reducing the operation to intermediate temperatures (300–600°C) without compromising the power density in order to develop economic and cost effective fuel cell systems for commercialization. Since electrolyte material significantly affects the operating temperature, one of the critical challenges is to design and develop electrolytes with an ionic conductivity of 0·1 S/cm. Reduction in operating temperature leads to an increase in electrolyte ohmic resistance losses as ionic transport is governed by thermal activation. Since 1960s fluorite structured cerium oxide-based electrolytes have been studied for engineering the ionic conductivity. Researchers have used various structural and technological modifications through doping, grain size reduction, development of multi-phase materials, and multi-layered thin films of cerium oxide-based electrolytes showing an improvement in ionic conductivity. The present work reviews the ionic conduction theory, development in designing cerium oxide-based electrolyte structure, and potential future directions towards low-temperature operations.
Advances in solid acid electrolytes for fuel cell applications
Authors: Bajpai Anshumaan , Chandel Vaibhaw S. , Pala Raj G. S.
Published: July 2012

Fuel cells represent a class of high-efficiency energy conversion devices that are expected to play a major role in reducing the environmental pollution in hydrogen economy. These cells typically employ polymer membranes as electrolytes for protonic conduction that are operable only under humid conditions. This requirement limits their operating temperature range to 373 K. Solid acids are a relatively new class of electrolytes that allow protonic conduction at temperatures above 373 K and are thereby free from water management issues. Each solid acid has a specific transition temperature beyond which its protonic conductivity increases. Unlike polymer membranes, they do not require hydration for proton conduction and follow Grotthus mechanism which makes them a promising candidate for further research. In the last decade, significant amount of attention has been paid to these compounds and the results have been encouraging. Addition of additives like SiO2 to solid acids has been found to be an effective method to increase their conductivity and lower the superprotonic transition temperature. This work describes the recent developments and the future challenges in the field of solid electrolytes for fuel cell applications.
Influence of Endodontic Treatment in the Post‐Surgical Healing of Human Class II Furcation Defects
Authors: de Miranda Jose Luis C. , Santana Carolina Miller M. , Santana Ronaldo B.
Published: July 2012

Background: Treatment of molar furcation defects remains a considerable challenge in clinical practice. The degree of success in the management of furcation involvement is highly variable and related to the baseline clinical status of these defects. The identification of clinical parameters influential to the treatment outcomes is critical to optimize the results of surgical periodontal therapy. The impact of the endodontic treatment (ET) of the tooth on the healing potential of the periodontium is controversial. Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the clinical response of buccal Class II furcation defects to open‐flap debridement (OFD) and to determine the influence of ET in the clinical outcomes of therapy.

Methods: Sixty patients were divided into two treatment groups (n = 30): 1) OFD; and 2) OFD in endodontically treated teeth (OFD + ET). The clinical variables evaluated were plaque (full‐mouth plaque score), bleeding on probing, gingival recession, probing depth (PD), and vertical (VAL) and horizontal (HAL) attachment levels. Reevaluation was performed 12 months after the surgical procedures.

Results: Both treatments resulted in improvements in all the clinical variables evaluated. Postoperative measurements from OFD‐treated and OFD + ET–treated sites showed, respectively, 1.2 ± 1.2 and 1.3 ± 1.3 mm reduction in PD, 0.6 ± 0.8 and 0.7 ± 0.6 mm VAL gains, and 0.7 ± 1.1 and 0.8 ± 1.6 mm HAL gains. No significant differences were found between the groups.

Conclusion: The present findings demonstrate that adequate endodontic therapy performed ≥6 months before surgical treatment does not significantly influence the clinical parameters of healing of human mandibular buccal Class II furcation defects.
Porphyromonas gingivalis HmuY‐Induced Production of Interleukin‐6 and IL‐6 Polymorphism in Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Trindade Soraya Castro , Olczak Teresa , Gomes‐Filho Isaac Suzart , de Moura‐Costa Lília Ferreira , Vale Vera Costa , Galdino‐Neto Milton , Alves dos Santos Heidiane , de Carvalho Filho Paulo Cirino , Stocker Andreas , Bendicho Maria Teresita , Xavier Márcia Tosta , de Moraes Marcílio Cerqueira Eneida , Meyer Roberto
Published: July 2012

Background: In chronic periodontitis (CP), the gene polymorphism of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) to 174C/G has been associated with the altered production of this cytokine. The aim of this pilot study is to compare the allelic and genotypic frequencies in patients with CP with control individuals without periodontitis (NP) and to measure the production of IL‐6 by whole blood cells stimulated with Porphyromonas gingivalis HmuY protein.

Methods: DNA was isolated from peripheral blood cells of 49 patients with CP and 60 control individuals classified as NP, and genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction using sequence‐specific primers. Whole blood cells from 29 patients with CP and 30 control individuals were stimulated for 48 hours with HmuY, and IL‐6 levels were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: The proportion of individuals carrying the G allele at position –174 of the IL‐6 gene was higher in the group with CP (85.7%) than in the normal control group (73.3%; P <0.03). P. gingivalis HmuY‐induced production of IL‐6 was higher in the group with CP (P <0.05).

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that P. gingivalis HmuY may be associated with increased IL‐6 production during CP. Furthermore, patients with periodontitis and individuals with higher HmuY‐induced production of IL‐6 show a high frequency of the G allele at position –174.
Effect of biofilms grown at various chloramine residuals on chloramine decay
Authors: Adhikari Rekha A. , Sathasivan A. , Bal Krishna K. C.
Published: July 2012

Maintaining longer lasting disinfectant residual in a distribution system is highly important to prevent microbial re-growth and hence to deliver safe drinking water. However, various factors such as microbes present in bulk water, sediment, or attached to pipe wall and biofilms accelerates the chloramine decay. Among them, biofilms are a major factor in accelerating chloramine decay as they provide a habitat for the microbes. Thus, this study investigates the effect of biofilms in terms of chloramine decay in the distribution system. Biofilms were grown under various chloramine residuals and different ages of biofilms were investigated by subjecting them to batch tests. Experimental results repeatedly showed that chloramine decay due to biofilms is independent of its growth condition, particularly for different chloramine residuals.
Raw water treatment using bentonite-chitosan as a coagulant
Authors: Syafalni S. , Abustan Ismail , Zakaria Siti Nor Farhana , Zawawi Mohd Hafiz , Rahim Rafini Abd
Published: July 2012

The effectiveness of bentonite using chitosan as a coagulant for raw water treatment was assessed in this study. The possible link between Alzheimer's disease with conventional aluminium based coagulants, has become an issue in water treatment. A method for treating water, using a natural approach as an alternate to achieve enhanced coagulation, might help to reduce risk to health, and be more environmentally friendly. One method for removing turbidity from raw water is by the adding of a primary coagulant (e.g., a natural polymer of chitosan) and a coagulant aid (e.g., natural clay of bentonite) to the raw water. A series of batch coagulation tests were conducted by jar test to obtain the optimum dosage, pH, ratio of coagulant aid and primary coagulant, and the efficiency time for the jar test, by evaluating the standard parameters, such as turbidity, pH, colour, aluminium, and chlorine. In terms of these parameters, chitosan:bentonite showed the best result, with a ratio of 30:70 in an optimal concentration of 1,000 mg/l with 0.15 g chitosan plus 0.35 g bentonite. The coagulants performed with an optimal pH of 5, with 30 min of mixing time during flocculation. However, the optimal pH condition during the jar test showed an improvement in the water alkalinity results, from pH 5 to 6.8. Coagulation with bentonite-chitosan successfully removed the turbidity with a highest efficiency of 98%. After water treatment in the optimal condition, results showed a great water quality standard, with 1.38 NTU, 10 TCU, 0.01 mg/l amount of chlorine and aluminium, and a pH of 6.8. However, data only showed slight differences of efficiency, between natural and conventional coagulants. In terms of the sludge volume index (SVI), the ratio of alum to bentonite-chitosan was found to be 3:1 which indicated that less sludge was produced by the natural coagulant. In a cost comparison between these coagulants, based on a rough estimation, bentonite-chitosan is nearly 10 times more expensive than the alum coagulant. However, with mass production and commercial availability, in the long run the price of chitosan could be reduced tremendously.
Influence of PAC properties on membrane performance in a PAC-UF hybrid system
Authors: Saravia F. , Zwiener C. , Frimmel F. H.
Published: July 2012

The combination of ultrafiltration (UF) and powdered activated carbon (PAC) has gained in importance over the last 15 years. The aim of applying PAC-UF hybrid processes is to improve the rejection capacity and the performance of membrane processes. In this work the influence of PAC-addition on membrane flux decline and fouling formation was studied with a submerged module using different water matrices. The PACs used were characterized by measurements of the surface area, the particle size distribution and the surface charge to get a better understanding of the observed effects. Results showed that the membrane flux decline was dependent on the applied type of activated carbon. When adding Picachem 8P, the transmembrane pressure (TMP) increased very quickly and the membrane performance was even worse than that without PAC. However, when adding Norit SA-UF under identical filtration conditions, the TMP was stable and the membrane performance was better than that without PAC. The fouling layers of the two PACs applied showed entirely different structures. Therefore the selection of a suitable PAC is a main factor for the overall performance of PAC-UF hybrid systems with submerged membranes.
Technical causes and impacts of intermittent water distribution
Authors: Klingel Philipp
Published: July 2012

Centralized water distribution in developing countries continues to be fraught with great difficulties. One major deficiency is the intermittent distribution of water. Most distribution systems were originally designed for a continuous supply mode and are now operated intermittently because of various constraints. In this mode of operation, the piping system is supplied with water for limited periods of time and is not filled with water under pressure continuously as originally provided for in the technical design concept. Periodic filling and draining of the pipe system is associated with numerous negative consequences which ultimately aggravate or prevent sustainable safe water distribution. To overcome this problem, thorough knowledge of intermittent water distribution is required. This paper discusses possible causes and consequences, and their interactions. These considerations are largely limited to the technical side of water distribution and are mainly based on the technical literature in the field.
The photodegradation of metronidazole in the presence of coexisting pharmaceuticals
Authors: Wu Bo , Zhang Ting , Li Jinxia , Ye Yong , Chen Huaixia
Published: July 2012

The objective of this study was to investigate if coexisting compounds could affect the fate of pharmaceuticals in surface water under solar irradiation. The degradation of metronidazole (MET) in the presence of different coexisting pharmaceuticals was investigated in batch experiments with exposure to sunlight. Tinidazole, which has a similar structure to MET, was employed as an analogue. The results indicated that the presence of an analogue with a similar photosensitive group to MET could inhibit the photodegradation of MET. In addition, the effect of coexisting pharmaceuticals with different absorption spectra on the degradation of MET was investigated. The results showed that the effect depended on the degree of overlapping absorption spectra between MET and the coexisting pharmaceuticals. The relationship between the degree of the influence and the ultraviolet absorption spectra of coexisting pharmaceuticals found in this study could give guidance in assessing the fate of pharmaceuticals in environmental water.
Nitrogen and phosphorus removal of locally adapted plant species used in constructed wetlands in China
Authors: Yu Xia , König Thomas , Qi Zhang , Yongsheng Gao
Published: July 2012

This paper assesses the nitrogen and phosphorus removal efficiency of seven plant species (Schoenoplectus lacustris, Vetiveria zizanioides, Acorus calamus, Canna indica, Zizania latifolia, Phragmites communis, and Iris pseudacorus) commonly used in constructed wetland systems in southern China. The investigation considers two aspects that are relevant to determine nutrient removal efficiency: plants’ biomass production and nutrient content in water effluent. Both assessments are correlated with each other. Three different hydraulic retention times with different nutrient loads have been applied in this ex-situ trial. The plants’ biomass production correlates positively with the effluent's nutrient removal efficiency. Six out of seven species reviewed produce more biomass above ground than below ground (average: 67% of dried biomass in aerial part); only I. pseudacorus produces more biomass below ground. S. lacustris, V. zizanioides, I. pseudacorus, and C. indica have performed best in terms of nutrient removal efficiency (65.6–90.2% for nitrogen; 67.7–84.6% for phosphorus).
Kinetic study of slaughterhouse wastewater treatment by electrocoagulation using Fe electrodes
Authors: Ahmadian Mohammad , Yousefi Nader , Van Ginkel Steven W. , Zare Mohammad Reza , Rahimi Sajad , Fatehizadeh Ali
Published: July 2012

In this study, treatment of slaughterhouse wastewater by electrocoagulation was investigated in batch system using Fe electrodes. The effect of various variables such as electrode number, current density and operating time was tested. Pollutant removal efficiency increased with increasing electrode number and operating time. The biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solid (TSS), and total nitrogen (TN) removal efficiencies using eight electrodes at a contact time of 50 min and a current density of 10 A/m2 were 66, 62, 60, and 56%, respectively. Higher electrode numbers will allow shorter operating times to achieve certain removal efficiencies. Also, removal efficiencies increased by increasing the current density; the highest removal efficiencies of BOD5, COD, TSS, and TN at a contact time of 50 min and a current density of 25 A/m2 were 97, 93, 81, and 84%, respectively. The results also show that the reactor pH varies directly with the current density; at 25 A/m2, the reactor pH increased from an initial value of 7.1 to 7.7 after 50 min. The experimental results showed that the kinetics of BOD5, COD, TSS and TN removal could be fitted adequately using a first order kinetic model (higher R2).
Ultrasonic-assisted cloud point extraction for determination of nickel in water samples by flame atomic absorption spectrometry
Authors: Song Jun , Zhen Wei , Li Zonghao , Lian Yuanpei , Yang Yaling
Published: July 2012

A novel method for the determination of nickel was established by ultrasonic-assisted cloud point extraction (UA-CPE) prior to flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS) analysis. The nickel reacted with N,N'-bis(salicylidene)-1,2-ethanediamine (BSE) to form hydrophobic chelates, which were extracted into the micelles of alpha-[3,5-dimethyl-1-(2-methylpropyl)hexyl]-omega-poly(oxy-2-ethanediyl) (Tergitol TMN-6). Tergitol TMN-6 was used as green nonionic surfactant. BSE was synthesized and checked by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra. The phase diagrams of the binary system, water–surfactant (Tergitol TMN-6), and the ternary systems, water–surfactant–salt, were determined. The effects of experimental conditions including pH of sample solution, concentration of chelating agent and surfactant, ultrasonic power, equilibration temperature and incubation time were evaluated in order to enhance sensitivity of the method. Under the optimal conditions, the calibration graph was linear in the range of 10–500 μg L–1. The values obtained for the limit of detection and enrichment factor were 1.0 μg L–1 and 30, respectively. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of nickel in water samples.
Antibacterial properties of PES/CuCl2 three-bore hollow fiber UF membrane
Authors: Dang Jingchuan , Zhang Yatao , Du Zhan , Zhang Haoqin , Liu Jindun
Published: July 2012

In this study, a three-bore polyethersulfone (PES) hollow fiber ultrafiltration (UF) membrane with antibacterial properties was prepared by phase inversion, using PES as the membrane material, N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAC) as solvent, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and CuCl2 as additives. The effect of CuCl2 content on the water flux and rejection was studied and the antibacterial properties of PES hollow fiber UF membrane were also investigated. The water flux results indicated that the hydrophilic properties of PES UF membranes were improved after adding CuCl2. The rejection of PVA-50000 was expected to drop slightly but remain high above 96%. The membranes showed good antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli) after adding CuCl2 and the antibacterial rate of PES/CuCl2 UF membranes was close to 100% after running for 48 h. PES hollow fiber UF membranes with antibacterial properties were prepared through the formation of the water-soluble PVP/Cu2+ complex with spatial network structure, which have good antibacterial and hydrophilic properties. Therefore, this study could provide an effective method for membrane antifouling.
Variations of electron flux and microbial community in air-cathode microbial fuel cells fed with different substrates
Authors: Yu Jaecheul , Park Younghyun , Cho Haein , Chun Jieun , Seon Jiyun , Cho Sunja , Lee Taeho
Published: July 2012

Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) can convert chemical energy to electricity using microbes as catalysts and a variety of organic wastewaters as substrates. However, electron loss occurs when fermentable substrates are used because fermentation bacteria and methanogens are involved in electron flow from the substrates to electricity. In this study, MFCs using glucose (G-MFC), propionate (P-MFC), butyrate (B-MFC), acetate (A-MFC), and a mix (M-MFC, glucose:propionate:butyrate:acetate = 1:1:1:1) were operated in batch mode. The metabolites and microbial communities were analyzed. The current was the largest electron sink in M-, G-, B-, and A-MFCs; the initial chemical oxygen demands (CODini) involved in current production were 60.1% for M-MFC, 52.7% for G-MFC, 56.1% for B-MFC, and 68.3% for A-MFC. Most of the glucose was converted to propionate (40.6% of CODini) and acetate (21.4% of CODini) through lactate (80.3% of CODini) and butyrate (6.1% of CODini). However, an unknown source (62.0% of CODini) and the current (34.5% of CODini) were the largest and second-largest electron sinks in P-MFC. Methane gas was only detected at levels of more than 10% in G- and M-MFCs, meaning that electrochemically active bacteria (EAB) could out-compete acetoclastic methanogens. The microbial communities were different for fermentable and non-fermentable substrate-fed MFCs. Probably, bacteria related to Lactococcus spp. found in G-MFCs with fermentable substrates would be involved in both fermentation and electricity generation. Acinetobacter-like species, and Rhodobacter-like species detected in all the MFCs would be involved in oxidation of organic compounds and electricity generation.
Enzymatic degradation of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in aquatic plants and relations to biological Fenton reaction
Authors: Reis A. R. , Sakakibara Y.
Published: July 2012

In order to evaluate the removal performance of trace phenolic endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) by aquatic plants, batch and continuous experiments were conducted using floating and submerged plants. The EDCs used in this study were bisphenol A, 2,4-dichlorophenol, 4-tert-octylphenol, pentachlorophenol, and nonylphenol. The feed concentration of each EDC was set at 100 μg/L. Continuous experiments showed that every EDC except pentachlorophenol was efficiently removed by different aquatic plants through the following reaction, catalyzed by peroxidases: EDCs+H2O2→Products+H2O2. Peroxidases were able to remove phenolic EDCs in the presence of H2O2 over a wide pH range (from 3 to 9). Histochemical localization of peroxidases showed that they were located in every part of the root cells, while highly concentrated zones were observed in the epidermis and in the vascular tissues. Although pentachlorophenol was not removed in the continuous treatment, it was rapidly removed by different aquatic plants when Fe2+ was added, and this removal occurred simultaneously with the consumption of endogenous H2O2. These results demonstrated the occurrence of a biological Fenton reaction and the importance of H2O2 as a key endogenous substance in the treatment of EDCs and refractory toxic pollutants.
Preservation of nutrients during long-term storage of source-separated yellowwater
Authors: Paruch Adam M.
Published: July 2012

Source separation of human urine (yellowwater) enhances the sustainability of wastewater management and efficiency of nutrient recovery and recycling. Storage of source-separated yellowwater is recommended prior to agronomic reuse. At this point, it is of immense interest to determine the effect of storage time on quality of yellowwater. Therefore, this study focused on examining changes in some chemical properties of raw, undiluted, freshly collected, source-separated yellowwater stored for a period of 1 year under different temperature regimes: cold (4 °C), mild (10 °C) and warm (22 °C). Chemical parameters (biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), N-tot, N-NO2, N-NO3, N-NH4, P-tot, K, S, and pH), with the main focus on fertiliser nutrient compounds intended for agricultural utilisation, were tested. The outcomes revealed that both nitrification and denitrification processes took place in the stored yellowwater, and an increase in the pH level of up to pH greater than 9 was observed. The study found that the main macronutrients can be well preserved in yellowwater, as there were no substantial changes in the contents of these elements over a 1 year storage period at the three temperatures tested.
Wastewater treatment from biodiesel production via a coupled photo-Fenton–aerobic sequential batch reactor (SBR) system
Authors: Ramírez Ximena María Vargas , Mejía Gina Maria Hincapié , López Kelly Viviana Patiño , Vásquez Gloria Restrepo , Sepúlveda Juan Miguel Marín
Published: July 2012

A coupled system of the photo-Fenton advanced oxidation technique and an aerobic sequential batch reactor (SBR) was used to treat wastewater from biodiesel production using either palm or castor oil. The photo-Fenton reaction and biological process were evaluated individually and were effective at treating the wastewater; nevertheless, each process required longer degradation times for the wastewater pollutants compared with the coupled system. The proposed coupled photo-Fenton/aerobic SBR system obtained a 90% reduction of the chemical oxygen demand (COD) in half of the time required for the biological system individually.
Can hydro-economic river basin models simulate water shadow prices under asymmetric access?
Authors: Kuhn A. , Britz W.
Published: July 2012

Hydro-economic river basin models (HERBM) based on mathematical programming are conventionally formulated as explicit ‘aggregate optimization’ problems with a single, aggregate objective function. Often unintended, this format implicitly assumes that decisions on water allocation are made via central planning or functioning markets such as to maximize social welfare. In the absence of perfect water markets, however, individually optimal decisions by water users will differ from the social optimum. Classical aggregate HERBMs cannot simulate that situation and thus might be unable to describe existing institutions governing access to water and might produce biased results for alternative ones. We propose a new solution format for HERBMs, based on the format of the mixed complementarity problem (MCP), where modified shadow price relations express spatial externalities resulting from asymmetric access to water use. This new problem format, as opposed to commonly used linear (LP) or non-linear programming (NLP) approaches, enables the simultaneous simulation of numerous ‘independent optimization’ decisions by multiple water users while maintaining physical interdependences based on water use and flow in the river basin. We show that the alternative problem format allows the formulation HERBMs that yield more realistic results when comparing different water management institutions.
Evaluating a strategy for maintaining nitrifier activity during long-term starvation in a moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) treating reverse osmosis concentrate
Authors: Ye Liu , Hu Shihu , Poussade Yvan , Keller Jurg , Yuan Zhiguo
Published: July 2012

A two-stage moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) was applied at the Bundamba advanced water treatment plant (AWTP) (Queensland, Australia) to treat the reverse osmosis concentrate (ROC) for inorganic nutrient removal. One of the operational challenges for the system was to cope with the large fluctuations of the ROC flow. This study investigated the decay rates of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria (NOB) and biofilm detachment in MBBR during starvation for up to one month. An intermittent aeration strategy of 15 min aeration every 6 h was applied. This study also evaluated the activity recovery of both AOB and NOB after normal operation was resumed. The results showed that the activity loss of AOB and NOB was relatively minor (<20%) within 10 days of starvation, which ensured relatively quick recovery of ammonium removal when normal operation resumed. In contrast, the AOB and NOB activity loss reached 60–80% when the starvation time was longer than 20 days, resulting in slower recovery of ammonium removal after starvation. Starvation for less than 20 days didn't result in an apparent biomass detachment from carriers.
Optimization of photo-Fenton process of RO concentrated coking wastewater using response surface methodology
Authors: Huiqing Zhang , Chunsong Ye , Xian Zhang , Fan Yang , Jun Yang , Wei Zhou
Published: July 2012

The objective of this study was aimed at investigating the removal of chemical oxygen demand (COD) from reverse osmosis (RO) concentrated coking wastewater by the photo-Fenton process. The optimum extraction conditions for the photo-Fenton process by Box–Behnken design (BBD) and response surface methodology (RSM) to establish a predictive polynomial quadratic model were discussed based on a single factor test. Optimized parameters validated by the analysis of variances (ANOVA) were found to be H2O2 concentration of 345.2 mg/L, pH value of 4.1 and reaction time of 103.5 minutes under ultraviolet irradiation. The experimental results of the COD removal under the optimized conditions presented better agreement with the predicted values with deviation error of 3.2%. The results confirmed that RSM based on BBD was a suitable method to optimize the operating conditions of RO concentrated coking wastewater.
Treatment of 14 sludge types from wastewater treatment plants using bench and pilot thermal hydrolysis
Authors: Qiao Wei , Sun Yifei , Wang Wei
Published: July 2012

A total of 14 types of sludge from household sewage, mixture of domestic and industrial wastewater, and industrial and oil wastewater treatment plants were selected to evaluate the effectiveness and adaptability of thermal hydrolysis pre-treatment. Organic solubilization, dewatering improvement, volume reduction, high-strength filtrate biodegradation, and dewatered sludge incineration were investigated using bench and pilot thermal hydrolysis experiments (170 °C/60 min). Results showed that sludge types significantly affected the treatment effects. Organic content has a primary influence on thermal effects. The relationship between suspended solid (SS) solubilization and raw sludge organic content was linear with an R2 of 0.73. The relationship between raw sludge organic content and treated sludge dewatering was linear with an R2 of 0.86 and 0.65 for pilot and bench pre-treatments, respectively. Household and oil sludge possessed incineration possibilities with high heat value. Industrial and oil sludge filtrate was unsuitable for digestion to recover bioenergy.
Correction of Metabolic Acidosis with Potassium Citrate in Renal Transplant Patients and its Effect on Bone Quality
Authors: Starke Astrid , Corsenca Alf , Kohler Thomas , Knubben Johannes , Kraenzlin Marius , Uebelhart Daniel , Wüthrich Rudolf P. , von Rechenberg Brigitte , Müller Ralph , Ambühl Patrice M.
Published: July 2012

Background

Acidosis and transplantation are associated with increased risk of bone disturbances. This study aimed to assess bone morphology and metabolism in acidotic patients with a renal graft, and to ameliorate bone characteristics by restoration of acid/base homeostasis with potassium citrate.

Methods

This was a 12-month controlled, randomized, interventional trial that included 30 renal transplant patients with metabolic acidosis (S-[HCO3
−] <24 mmol/L) undergoing treatment with either potassium citrate to maintain S-[HCO3
−] >24 mmol/L, or potassium chloride (control group). Iliac crest bone biopsies and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry were performed at baseline and after 12 months of treatment. Bone biopsies were analyzed by in vitro micro-computed tomography and histomorphometry, including tetracycline double labeling. Serum biomarkers of bone turnover were measured at baseline and study end. Twenty-three healthy participants with normal kidney function comprised the reference group.

Results

Administration of potassium citrate resulted in persisting normalization of S-[HCO3
−] versus potassium chloride. At 12 months, bone surface, connectivity density, cortical thickness, and cortical porosity were better preserved with potassium citrate than with potassium chloride, respectively. Serological biomarkers and bone tetracycline labeling indicate higher bone turnover with potassium citrate versus potassium chloride. In contrast, no relevant changes in bone mineral density were detected by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.

Conclusions

Treatment with potassium citrate in renal transplant patients is efficient and well tolerated for correction of metabolic acidosis and may be associated with improvement in bone quality. This study is limited by the heterogeneity of the investigated population with regard to age, sex, and transplant vintage.
To Dialyze or Not
Authors: Moss Alvin H.
Published: July 2012

AKI severe enough to necessitate renal replacement therapy occurs in approximately 5% of patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) and is associated with in-hospital mortality in excess of 50%. Complicating factors, such as cancer, can increase in-hospital mortality to 85%. Intensivists often expect that consulted nephrologists will provide dialysis when asked to do so, without considering whether it is likely to benefit the patient and therefore is medically and ethically appropriate. In this Attending Rounds, on the basis of the evidence and recommendations in Shared Decision-Making in the Appropriate Initiation of and Withdrawal from Dialysis, a clinical practice guideline, a case of anuric AKI in the ICU is presented and analyzed. Woven into the discussion are insights from the clinical and ethics literature on this topic, along with the experience of the author. This Attending Rounds presents an approach to deciding when it is not appropriate to dialyze patients with AKI in the ICU.
Coexistence of Different Circulating Anti-Podocyte Antibodies in Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Murtas Corrado , Bruschi Maurizio , Candiano Giovanni , Moroni Gabriella , Magistroni Riccardo , Magnano Andrea , Bruno Francesca , Radice Antonella , Furci Luciana , Argentiero Lucia , Carnevali Maria Luisa , Messa Piergiorgio , Scolari Francesco , Sinico Renato Alberto , Gesualdo Loreto , Fervenza Fernando C. , Allegri Landino , Ravani Pietro , Ghiggeri Gian Marco
Published: July 2012

Background and objectives

The discovery of different podocyte autoantibodies in membranous nephropathy (MN) raises questions about their pathogenetic and clinical meaning. This study sought to define antibody isotypes and correlations; to compare levels in MN, other glomerulonephritides, and controls; and to determine their association with clinical outcomes.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Serum IgG1, IgG3, and IgG4 against aldose reductase (AR), SOD2, and α-enolase (αENO) were measured at diagnosis in 186 consecutive MN patients, in 96 proteinuric controls (36 with FSGS, and 60 with IgA nephropathy), and in 92 healthy people recruited in four Italian nephrology units. Anti-phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2r) and anti-neutral endopeptidase (NEP) IgG4 were titrated in the same specimens. Association with 1-year follow-up clinical parameters was studied in 120 patients.

Results

IgG4 was the most common isotype for all antibodies; IgG1 and IgG3 were nearly negligible. IgG4 levels were positive in a significant proportion of MN patients (AR, 34%; SOD2, 28%; αENO, 43%). Antibody titers were higher in MN than in healthy and pathologic controls (P<0.005). Anti-NEP IgG4 did not differ from normal controls (P=0.12). Anti-PLA2r IgG4 was detected in 60% of patients and correlated with anti-AR, anti-SOD2, and anti-αENO IgG4 (P<0.001). In MN patients negative for the whole antibody panel (20%), 1-year proteinuria was lower compared with patients with at least one antibody positivity (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Our data suggest that IgG4 is the prevalent isotype for antibodies against cytoplasmic antigens of podocytes (AR, SOD2, αENO). Their levels were higher than in other proteinuric glomerulonephritides and in normal controls and were correlated with anti-PLA2r. Only baseline negativity for all known antibodies predicted lower 1-year proteinuria.
Two spinturnicid mites new to the fauna of Poland (Acari: Spinturnicidae)
Authors: Krištofík Ján , Piksa Krzysztof , Sachanowicz Konrad
Published: July 2012

Two spinturnicid mites new to the fauna of Poland (Acari: Spinturnicidae)

Eyndhovenia euryalis oudemansi (Eyndhoven, 1941) and Spinturnix emarginata (Kolenati, 1856) (Acari: Mesostigmata: Spinturnicidae) are reported in the Polish fauna for the first time. They were collected from the bat Myotis emarginatus (Geoffroy, 1806) in the Carpathians, Sudety Mts and Kraków Upland (S. Poland).
Females of Rhyacophila (Trichoptera: Rhyacophilidae) from the Indian Himalayas
Authors: Saini Malkiat , Kaur Lakhwinder
Published: July 2012

Females of Rhyacophila (Trichoptera: Rhyacophilidae) from the Indian Himalayas

Females of the following species are described, illustrated and associated with their male counterparts: Rhyacophila obscura Martynov, R. bidens Kimmins, R. ngulpa Schmid and R. kadaphes Schmid.
Description of a new species in the Micropsectra atrofasciata group, with notes on rare Tanytarsini in Poland (Diptera: Chironomidae)
Authors: Giłka Wojciech , Jażdżewska Natalia
Published: July 2012

Description of a new species in theMicropsectra atrofasciatagroup, with notes on rare Tanytarsini in Poland (Diptera: Chironomidae)

Micropsectra tatricasp. n. of theatrofasciataspecies group is described.Micropsectra wagneri(Siebert),Neozavrelia cuneipennis(Edwards),Tanytarsus chinyensisGoetghebuer andT. striatulusLindeberg are reported in the Polish fauna for the first time; further four species of the tribe Tanytarsini,Micropsectra radialisGoetghebuer,Tanytarsus nigerSøgaard Andersen,T. nigricollisGoetghebuer andT. signatus(van der Wulp), rare in Poland, are annotated.
Physiotherapy Models of Service Delivery, Staffing, and Caseloads: A Profile of Level I Trauma Centres across Canada
Authors: Fisher Megan E. , Aristone Martha N. , Young Katrina K. , Waechter Laurie E. , Landry Michel D. , Taylor Leslie A. , Cooper Nicole S.
Published: July 2012

Purpose: To examine and describe physiotherapy models of service delivery, staffing, and caseloads in Level I trauma centres across Canada. Methods: A telephone questionnaire was administered to one experienced trauma physiotherapist at each of the 19 Level I trauma centres in Canada. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively for national trends. Results: Data were collected from all 19 centres (100%), 89% of which provided physiotherapy services 5 days per week with priority weekend coverage. Physiotherapist assistants (PTAs) were employed by 89% of centres and were used across the continuum of care. Centres with PTAs appear to be more likely to provide patients with additional daily treatment. Departmental organizational structures were the most common (41%) and were associated with higher caseloads. Higher caseloads also appear to be linked with having less than 10 years of experience as a physiotherapist. Conclusions: Variations exist between centres with respect to the delivery of physiotherapy services. These variations may result from differences in province-specific legislation, differences in funding structure, and the lack of evidence-informed guidelines. Future research is needed to establish optimal models of physiotherapy services that are cost-effective and provide best patient care.
On Non-domination
Authors: Shapiro Ian
Published: July 2012

My aim here is to defend a view of non-domination as providing a better basis for justice than the going alternatives. I differentiate it from two kinds of alternatives: those whose proponents reject my claim that non-domination is the bedrock of justice and those who agree with me but understand non-domination differently than I do. The first group divides into partisans of equality, on the one hand, and of freedom, on the other. Their arguments concern me in the first half of the essay. Then I turn to conceptions of non-domination put forward by Jürgen Habermas, Michel Foucault, Michael Walzer, Quentin Skinner, and Philip Pettit. There is considerable overlap among these various views and between them and mine but there are also notable disagreements. I spell out what is at stake in the alternative formulations, indicating why my own conception, rooted in power-based resourcism, is preferable.