bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histone Deacetylase 7 Associates With Runx2 and Represses Its Activity During Osteoblast Maturation in a Deacetylation-Independent Manner
Authors: Jensen Eric D , Schroeder Tania M , Bailey Jaclyn , Gopalakrishnan Rajaram , Westendorf Jennifer J
Published: November 2007

HDAC7 associates with Runx2 and represses Runx2 transcriptional activity in a deacetylase-independent manner. HDAC7 suppression accelerates osteoblast maturation. Thus, HDAC7 is a novel Runx2 co-repressor that regulates osteoblast differentiation.

Introduction: Runx2 is a key regulator of gene expression in osteoblasts and can activate or repress transcription depending on interactions with various co-factors. Based on previous observations that several histone deacetylases (HDACs) repress Runx2 activity and that HDAC inhibitors accelerate osteoblast differentiation in vitro, we hypothesized that additional HDACs may also affect Runx2 activity.

Materials and Methods: A panel of HDACs was screened for repressors of Runx2 activity. Immunofluorescence, co-immunoprecipitation, GST-pulldowns, and chromatin immunoprecipitations were used to characterize the interactions between Runx2 and HDAC7. Expression of osteoblast markers was examined in a C2C12 cell osteoblast differentiation model in which HDAC7 levels were reduced by RNAi.

Results: Runx2 activity was repressed by HDAC7 but not by HDAC9, HDRP, HDAC10, or HDAC11. HDAC7 and Runx2 were found co-localized in nuclei and associated with Runx2-responsive promoter elements in osseous cells. A carboxy-terminal domain of Runx2 associated with multiple regions of HDAC7. Although direct interactions with Runx2 were confined to the carboxy terminus of HDAC7, this region was dispensable for repression. In contrast, the amino terminus of HDAC7 bound Runx2 indirectly and was necessary and sufficient for transcriptional repression. Treatment with HDAC inhibitors did not decrease inhibition by HDAC7, indicating that HDAC7 repressed Runx2 by deacetylation-independent mechanism(s). Suppression of HDAC7 expression in C2C12 multipotent cells by RNAi accelerated their BMP2-dependent osteoblast differentiation program. Consistent with this observation, BMP2 decreased nuclear localization of HDAC7.

Conclusions: These results establish HDAC7 as a regulator of Runx2's transcriptional activity and suggest that HDAC7 may be an important regulator of the timing and/ or rate of osteoblast maturation.
Strontium Ranelate Reduces the Risk of Vertebral Fractures in Patients With Osteopenia
Authors: Seeman Ego , Devogelaer Jean-Pierre , Lorenc Roman , Spector Timothy , Brixen Kim , Balogh Adam , Stucki Gerold , Reginster Jean-Yves
Published: November 2007

Many fractures occur in women with moderate fracture risk caused by osteopenia. Strontium ranelate was studied in 1431 postmenopausal women with osteopenia. Vertebral fracture risk reduction of 41–59% was shown depending on the site and fracture status at baseline. This is the first report of antivertebral fracture efficacy in women with vertebral osteopenia.

Introduction: Women with osteoporosis are at high risk for fracture. However, more than one half of all fractures in the community originate from the larger population at more moderate risk of fracture caused by osteopenia. Despite this, evidence for antifracture efficacy in these persons is limited. The aim of this study was to determine whether strontium ranelate, a new drug that reduces fracture risk in women with osteoporosis, is also effective in women with osteopenia.

Materials and Methods: Data from the Spinal Osteoporosis Therapeutic Intervention study (SOTI; n = 1649) and the TReatment Of Peripheral OSteoporosis (TROPOS; n = 5091) were pooled to evaluate the antivertebral fracture efficacy of strontium ranelate in women with lumbar spine (LS) osteopenia with any BMD value at the femoral neck (FN; N = 1166) and in 265 women with osteopenia at both sites (intention-to-treat analysis). The women were randomized to strontium ranelate 2 g/d orally or placebo for 3 yr.

Results: No group differences were present in baseline characteristics that may influence fracture outcome independent of therapy. In women with LS osteopenia, treatment reduced the risk of vertebral fracture by 41% (RR = 0.59; 95% CI, 0.43–0.82), by 59% (RR = 0.41; 95% CI, 0.17–0.99) in the 447 patients with no prevalent fractures, and by 38% (RR = 0.62; 95% CI, 0.44–0.88) in the 719 patients with prevalent fractures. In women with osteopenia at both sites, treatment reduced the risk of fracture by 52% (RR = 0.48; 95% CI, 0.24–0.96).

Conclusions: Strontium ranelate safely reduces the risk of vertebral fractures in women with osteopenia with or without a prevalent fracture.
Measured Height Loss Predicts Fractures in Middle-Aged and Older Men and Women: The EPIC-Norfolk Prospective Population Study
Authors: Moayyeri Alireza , Luben Robert N , Bingham Sheila A , Welch Ailsa A , Wareham Nicholas J , Khaw Kay-Tee
Published: November 2007

In this large population-based prospective study among middle-aged and older men and women, we found that height loss of >2 cm over a period of 4 yr is a significant predictor of future fractures. Serial measurement of height is, therefore, recommended among the elderly people.

Introduction: Height change can be easily measured and may contribute to fracture risk prediction. We assessed measured height loss and fracture incidence in a prospective population study.

Materials and Methods: Height was measured in participants in the Norfolk cohort of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC-Norfolk) between 1993 and 1997 and repeated between 1997 and 2000. Incident fractures to 2006 were ascertained by hospital record linkage.

Results: In 14,921 men and women 42–82 yr of age, during a mean follow-up period of 7.1 yr, there were 390 fractures, including 122 hip fractures. Prior annual height loss in those who had an incident fracture (1.8 ± 0.3 [SD] mm) was significantly greater than other participants (0.9 ± 0.2 mm; p < 0.001). Participants with annual height loss >0.5 cm had an age- and sex-adjusted hazard ratio of any fracture of 1.76 (95% CI, 1.16–2.67) and of hip fracture of 2.08 (95% CI, 1.07–4.05) compared with those with no height loss. Each 1 cm/yr height loss was associated with a hazard ratio of 1.86 (95% CI, 1.28–2.72) for all fractures and 2.24 (95% CI, 1.23–4.09) for hip fracture after adjustment for age, sex, past history of fracture, smoking, body mass index, alcohol intake, and heel ultrasound measures. Annual height loss of 1 cm was comparable to having a past history of fracture and equivalent to being ∼14 yr older in chronological age in terms of the magnitude of relationship with fracture risk.

Conclusions: Middle-aged and older men and women with annual height loss >0.5 cm are at increased risk of hip and any fracture. Serial height measurements can contribute to fracture risk prediction.
A New Heterozygous Mutation (R714C) of the Osteopetrosis Gene, Pleckstrin Homolog Domain Containing Family M (With Run Domain) Member 1 (PLEKHM1), Impairs Vesicular Acidification and Increases TRACP Secretion in Osteoclasts
Authors: Del Fattore Andrea , Fornari Rachele , Van Wesenbeeck Liesbeth , de Freitas Fenna , Timmermans Jean-Pierre , Peruzzi Barbara , Cappariello Alfredo , Rucci Nadia , Spera Giovanni , Helfrich Miep H , Van Hul Wim , Migliaccio Silvia , Teti Anna
Published: November 2007

We studied phenotypic and cellular aspects in a patient with a heterozygous mutation of the PLEKHM1 gene and obtained some indications regarding the role of the protein in bone cell function. Plekhm1 is involved in osteoclast endosomal vesicle acidification and TRACP exocytosis, contributing to events involved in osteoclast–osteoblast cross-talk.

Introduction: The gene PLEKHM1 encodes a nonsecretory adaptor protein that localizes to endosomal vesicles. A highly truncated Plekhm1 protein was previously found in a patient with intermediate autosomal recessive osteopetrosis.

Materials and Methods: We describe a new heterozygous mutation in the PLEKHM1 gene in a patient presenting with low vertebral and femoral T-scores and areas of focal sclerosis. Clinical evaluation, mutational analysis, assessment of in vitro osteoclast morphology and activity, transfection studies, and evaluation of osteoclast–osteoblast cross-talk were carried out.

Results: Direct DNA sequencing showed a heterozygous C to T substitution on cDNA position 2140 of the PLEKHM1 gene, predicted to lead to an R714C mutant protein. The mutation was not found in 104 control chromosomes. In vitro, patient's osteoclasts showed normal formation rate, morphology, number of nuclei, and actin rings but lower TRACP activity and higher endosomal pH than control osteoclasts. The patient had high serum PTH and TRACP, despite low TRACP activity in osteoclasts in vitro. HEK293 cells overexpressing either wildtype or Plekhm1-R714C showed no difference in localization of the variants, and co-transfection with a TRACP vector confirmed low TRACP activity in cells carrying the R714C mutation. RAW 264.7 osteoclast-like cells expressing the Plekhm1-R714C variant also showed low TRACP activity and reduced ability to acidify endosomal compartments compared with cells expressing the wildtype protein. Reduced intracellular TRACP was caused by increased protein secretion rather than reduced expression. TRACP-containing conditioned medium was able to increase osteoblast alkaline phosphatase, suggesting the focal osteosclerosis is a result of increased osteoclast–osteoblast coupling.

Conclusions: We provide further evidence for a role of Plekhm-1 in osteoclasts by showing that a novel mutation in PLEKHM1 is associated with a complex bone phenotype of generalized osteopenia combined with “focal osteosclerosis.” Our data suggest that the mutation affects endosomal acidification/maturation and TRACP exocytosis, with implications for osteoclast–osteoblast cross-talk.
Finite Element Analysis Based on In Vivo HR-pQCT Images of the Distal Radius Is Associated With Wrist Fracture in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Boutroy Stephanie , Van Rietbergen Bert , Sornay-Rendu Elisabeth , Munoz Francoise , Bouxsein Mary L , Delmas Pierre D
Published: November 2007

BMD, bone microarchitecture, and bone mechanical properties assessed in vivo by finite element analysis were associated with wrist fracture in postmenopausal women.

Introduction: Many fractures occur in individuals with normal BMD. Assessment of bone mechanical properties by finite element analysis (FEA) may improve identification of those at high risk for fracture.

Materials and Methods: We used HR-pQCT to assess volumetric bone density, microarchitecture, and μFE-derived bone mechanical properties at the radius in 33 postmenopausal women with a prior history of fragility wrist fracture and 33 age-matched controls from the OFELY cohort. Radius areal BMD (aBMD) was also measured by DXA. Associations between density, microarchitecture, mechanical parameters and fracture status were evaluated by univariate logistic regression analysis and expressed as ORs (with 95% CIs) per SD change. We also conducted a principal components (PCs) analysis (PCA) to reduce the number of parameters and study their association (OR) with wrist fracture.

Results: Areal and volumetric densities, cortical thickness, trabecular number, and mechanical parameters such as estimated failure load, stiffness, and the proportion of load carried by the trabecular bone at the distal and proximal sites were associated with wrist fracture (p < 0.05). The PCA revealed five independent components that jointly explained 86.2% of the total variability of bone characteristics. The first PC included FE-estimated failure load, areal and volumetric BMD, and cortical thickness, explaining 51% of the variance with an OR for wrist fracture = 2.49 (95% CI, 1.32–4.72). Remaining PCs did not include any density parameters. The second PC included trabecular architecture, explaining 12% of the variance, with an OR = 1.82 (95% CI, 0.94–3.52). The third PC included the proportion of the load carried by cortical versus trabecular bone, assessed by FEA, explaining 9% of the variance, and had an OR = 1.61 (95% CI, 0.94–2.77). Thus, the proportion of load carried by cortical versus trabecular bone seems to be associated with wrist fracture independently of BMD and microarchitecture (included in the first and second PC, respectively).

Conclusions: These results suggest that bone mechanical properties assessed by μFE may provide information about skeletal fragility and fracture risk not assessed by BMD or architecture measurements alone and are therefore likely to enhance the prediction of wrist fracture risk.
Association of Changes in Oxidative and Proinflammatory States with Changes in Vascular Function after a Lifestyle Modification Trial Among Obese Children
Authors: Kelishadi Roya , Hashemi Mohammad , Mohammadifard Noushin , Asgary Sedigheh , Khavarian Noushin
Published: November 2007

Background: The association of changes in oxidative and proinflammatory states with vascular function after diet and exercise intervention among obese children has not been previously explored.

Methods: In this 6-week diet and exercise intervention study in 35 obese children, age 12 to 18 years, we evaluated the relationship between changes in anthropometric indices, measures of insulin resistance, C-reactive protein (CRP), oxidized LDL (ox-LDL), and oxidative stress markers with changes in carotid intima-media thickness (C-IMT) and flow mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery.

Results: At the end of the study, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and percentage body fat were decreased (P <0.05), but participants remained overweight (BMI ≥ 95th percentile). Although FMD improved (P <0.05), the improvement in C-IMT did not reach statistical significance. The changes in BMI, waist circumference, fat mass, ox-LDL, malondialdehyde (MDA), CRP, insulin, and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) had an inverse correlation with the changes in mean FMD after adjustment for age and sex, with the highest correlations documented for ox-LDL, CRP, and WC. The age- and sex-adjusted changes in ox-LDL, waist circumference, CRP, MDA, and body fat mass had the highest correlations with changes in C-IMT.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that a common inflammatory stress condition associated with childhood obesity, notably with abdominal fat deposition, may play a role in the development of the earliest stages of proatherosclerotic inflammatory processes and subsequent vascular dysfunction. These changes might be partially reversible by short-term diet and exercise intervention, even if patients do not reach ideal body weight.
A Revised Procedure for the Construction of a 3-Parameter JR Resistance Curve and the Determination of Initiation Toughness J0.2
Authors: Wardle Graham
Published: November 2007

Fracture toughness testing procedures often advocate the use of a 3-parameter offset power law fit to define a resistance curve, and subsequently an estimate of initiation toughness (e.g., J0.2). JR=A+α(Δa)β. Experience has indicated that the fit coefficients A, α, and β are highly variable. What is required is a consistent method of estimating A and thus α and β to reflect physical sense. In this paper it is proposed that the offset A is defined using a J-elastic term Je given by A=Je=W/2(σy2∕E′)f(ao∕W). Experimental data are provided in support of the use of Je for a well characterized A533B-1 steel. Tests were made at ambient temperature using geometrically scaled plain-sided and side-grooved compact C(T) specimens of sizes 20<W<200mm. The fixing of A through the use of Je provides less variable α and β parameters. The exponent β is found to be independent of W, noting that βSG<βplain, as is the α coefficient for side-grooved specimens (αSG). The α coefficient for plain-sided specimens (αplain) may be related to specimen width and thus thickness (B) for geometrically-scaled specimens, noting that α∞ approximates to αSG. αplain=α∞(1+1∕B). The results indicate that the JR curves and thus J0.2 vary with specimen width W. For conventional laboratory-sized C(T) specimens (i.e., 25<W<100mm) the variation in J0.2 with a size over this range is of the same order as the general level of scatter observed in the J0.2 measurement. However, for specimen sizes outside of this range size effects may be predicted.
Formulas for Product Strength Modeling
Authors: Nadarajah Saralees , Kotz Samuel
Published: November 2007

The concept of stress strength inference plays an important role in modeling problems with respect to testing and evaluation of products. The lifetime failure rate of a product can be expressed by the probability FR=Pr(X2<X1), where X1 and X2 are some random variables representing the lifetime maximum stress and the strength of the product. In this note, we derive a comprehensive collection of formulas for FR by assuming the most commonly known models for X1 and X2. We feel that this work could serve as a useful reference for product strength modeling.
Effect of Hail Impact on Thermally Tempered Glass Substrates Used for Processing CdTe PV Modules
Authors: Shimpi Tushar M. , Barth Kurt L. , Enzenroth Robert Al. , Sampath W. S. , Manivannan V.
Published: November 2007

The IEEE 1262 standard provides qualification tests and specification to evaluate photovoltaic (PV) modules intended for power generation applications. The hail impact test is one of the tests. It is conducted to verify that the module will withstand a simulated hail impact without damage. The modules are tested with 1-in. diameter ice balls traveling at a velocity of 52 miles/h. Based on the results, the use of 3-mm tempered glass substrate for processing is recommended to withstand the hail impact test. The stresses developed by the samples during the hail impact test have been estimated.
Correlations Between Depth of Water Penetration, Chloride Permeability, and Coefficient of Chloride Diffusion in Plain, Silica Fume, and Fly Ash Cement Concretes
Authors: Ahmad Shamsad , Al-Kutti Walid A. , Baghabra Al-Amoudi Omar S. , Maslehuddin Mohammed
Published: November 2007

An experimental study was conducted to evaluate correlations between the depth of water penetration, chloride permeability, and coefficient of chloride diffusion in plain, silica fume, and fly ash cement concretes. A total of 27 concrete mixtures were prepared by varying the water to cementitious materials ratio and cementitious materials content and using Type I, fly ash (20 %), and silica fume (7.5 %) cements. The test results were statistically analyzed to develop correlations between the depth of water penetration, chloride permeability, and coefficient of chloride diffusion. A good correlation was noted between the depth of water penetration and chloride diffusion, and chloride permeability and coefficient of chloride diffusion (R2>0.80).
Growth Modulation during Juvenile Rearing Can Reduce Rates of Residualism in the Progeny of Wild Steelhead Broodstock
Authors: Sharpe Cameron S. , Beckman Brian R. , Cooper Kathleen A. , Hulett Patrick L.
Published: November 2007

Residualism is the failure of some hatchery-reared salmonid juveniles to out-migrate as smolts with the rest of their cohort. We released hatchery-reared juveniles from domesticated- and wild-origin broodstock steelhead and measured their relative rates of residualism. The residualism rate exhibited by the offspring of wild broodstock was more than one order of magnitude greater than that of domesticated stock. Further, we experimentally manipulated the growth trajectories of juvenile offspring of wild broodstock to decrease the size variance among released fish. Our expectation was that fewer fish would be too small or too large to smolt as yearlings. Small fish placed on an aggressive rearing regimen (reared separately from larger fish, fed more food more often) residualized at a lower rate than did comparable control fish (reared with large fish without supplemental feeding). We saw no effect of a lower feeding regimen on the residualism rate of large fish, but the lower feeding regimen did not significantly affect size during rearing. Residual steelhead were bimodally distributed by size. Most residual fish were male; among these fish, 11-ketotestosterone levels and visual scores of gonadal development indicated that 42% were mature or maturing. All fish showed the expected patterns of change in gill Na+,K+-ATPase and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) associated with smoltification, and small fish placed on the aggressive rearing regimen showed slightly, but significantly, higher IGF-I levels than did comparable control fish.
Selection of Spawning Sites by Coho Salmon in a Northern California Stream
Authors: Mull Kristin E. , Wilzbach Margaret A.
Published: November 2007

We assessed the relative importance of various factors contributing to spawning site use by a population of threatened coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch in Freshwater Creek, California, and created a predictive model of spawning habitat selection based on logistic regression analysis. We excluded sampling sites that previous studies had established as unsuitable on the basis of depth and substrate criteria and asked why fish chose particular locations and not others in seemingly suitable habitat. We evaluated surface water velocity, depth, substrate size composition, gravel inflow rates, vertical hydraulic gradient, geomorphic channel units, hyporheic water physicochemistry, cover, and proximity to other redds not in sampling sites during the 2004–2005 spawning season. In univariate comparisons with unused sites, coho salmon selected sites with a smaller median particle diameter, a larger percentage of gravel–pebble substrate, and higher gravel inflow rates. Based on multivariate logistic regression, the probability of a site's being used for spawning was best modeled as a positive function of the gravel–pebble fraction of the substrate, location at a pool or run tail, and the presence of existing redds in close proximity to the site. This model explained 38% of the variation in the data and was a better predictor of spawning habitat use than a more traditional model based on depth, velocity, and substrate. Our results highlight the potential importance of social behavior in contributing to habitat selection by spawning salmonids.
Bridging the Energy Gap: Anadromous Blueback Herring Feeding in the Hudson and Mohawk Rivers, New York
Authors: Simonin Paul W. , Limburg Karin E. , Machut Leonard S.
Published: November 2007

Adult blueback herring Alosa aestivalis (N = 116) were collected during the 1999, 2000, and 2002‐2004 spawning runs from sites on the Hudson and Mohawk rivers, and gut contents were analyzed. Thirty‐four fish (33% of those examined) were found to contain food material. Food items were present in 41% of Mohawk River samples and 11% of Hudson River samples; all Hudson River fish containing food were captured in small tributaries above the head of tide. Hudson River fish predominantly consumed zooplankton, while Mohawk River fish consumed benthic aquatic insects in large quantities, including Baetidae, Ephemeridae, and Chironomidae. Using stable isotope analysis and a mixing model, we found that fish collected later in the season had significantly decreased marine‐derived C. Condition indices of later‐season fish were equal to or greater than those of fish collected earlier in the season. Blueback herring in this system may face increased energy requirements as they migrate farther upstream during spawning runs, and feeding may provide energy subsidies needed to maintain fitness over their expanded migratory range.
Progress of advanced composites for civil infrastructure
Authors: Canning L. , Hodgson J. , Karuna R. , Luke S. , Brown P.
Published: November 2007

The current paper describes the use of fibre reinforced polymer (FRP) composites as primary structural members. In particular FRP composite bridge decks are discussed and the Asset project, which comprised the development of a FRP composite bridge deck system, is described in detail. The analysis, design and testing undertaken within the project are also discussed in detail. The culmination of the project, the reconstruction of West Mill Bridge in Oxfordshire, is described and conclusions made on the particular advantages of using FRP composites for bridge decks.
Disproportionate collapse: a pragmatic approach
Authors: Starossek U.
Published: November 2007

Probability-based design methods face certain problems in making structures sufficiently collapse resistant and thus preventing disproportionate collapse. These problems are addressed and a discussion is given to outline how they might be overcome both within and outside a probabilistic framework. Definitions for the terms ‘robustness’ and ‘collapse resistance’ are proposed, the former being a property of the structure alone, the latter including possible causes of initial local failure. A pragmatic approach for designing against disproportionate collapse is suggested and a set of corresponding design criteria is presented. Design strategies based on preventing or presuming local failure are compared. In addition to the better-known design methods providing specific local resistance or alternative paths, an approach based on isolation by segmentation is examined. It is found that the applicability of the various design methods depends on the design objectives and on the type of structure.
A method for estimating fundamental periods of tall buildings
Authors: Wang L. Y. , Wang Q.
Published: November 2007

The objective of the current paper is to develop a simple hand formula to estimate the fundamental vibration period of tall buildings for use in equivalent lateral force analysis specified in building codes. The method based on the Sturm–Liouville differential equation is presented here for estimating the fundamental period of natural vibration. The resulting equation, based on the continuum representation of a tall building braced by coupled shear walls for natural vibration of the building, is proved to be the fourth-order Sturm–Liouville differential equation, and a hand method for determining the fundamental period of natural vibration of the building is presented. Making use of the coupled wall theory for natural vibration, the method is extended to deal with the vibration problem of other tall buildings braced by frame, walls and/or tube. The method has the merit of being simple in terms of numerical computation and presentation and yet is very versatile when combined with numerical analysis. Once the structural parameters α H and μ of a tall building are computed, the fundamental vibration period of the building can be readily obtained. The value of the method is that it will allow a more consistent and accurate use of code formulae for calculating the earthquake-induced maximum base shear in a tall building. Use of the method is economical with respect to both computer time and equipment, for example a hand calculator would suffice to handle the calculations of period of the buildings at concept design stage. It can also be useful to verify the results of the finite-element method where the time-consuming procedure of handling all the data can always be a source of errors.
Nitrogen source apportionment modeling and the effect of land-use class related runoff contributions
Authors: Lindgren G.A. , Wrede S. , Seibert J. , Wallin M.
Published: November 2007

Models simulating nutrient transport at the catchment scale are frequently used for source apportionment and thereby for finding cost-efficient management strategies for water quality improvements. One typical modelling approach at the catchment scale is the use of leaching coefficients (mass per unit flow of water) to compute the nutrient input based on land-use information. In this study two different such model approaches, the lumped Fyrismodel and the distributed HBV-N-D model, were compared based on simulations for the River Fyris catchment in central Sweden. A major difference between the models were different assumptions of specific runoff variations between different land-use classes. These differences had a considerable effect on the computed source apportionment. The higher specific runoff from agricultural areas in the HBV-N-D model compared to the Fyrismodel resulted in a larger contribution of agricultural areas to the total nitrogen export. These results demonstrate the importance of the assumptions of the spatial variation of specific runoff on source apportionment HBV-N-D model estimations.
A site-specific land and water management model in MIKE SHE
Authors: Rubarenzya M.H. , Graham D. , Feyen J. , Willems P. , Berlamont J.
Published: November 2007

This paper presents the development and characteristics of a site-specific physically based, spatially distributed model. The Grote Nete catchment model was built to simulate the various processes of the hydrological cycle, and their interactions with each other. It highlights the various stages of model development from conceptualisation and the underlying mathematical representation of hydrological processes, through the model set-up phase, and finally to the calibration and validation. MIKE SHE was chosen for its ability to generate a spatially distributed representation of the hydrological processes within a catchment, which was necessary for future scenario analysis. The equations coupled within the system include a three-dimensional Darcy equation in the saturated zone, the Richards equation for the unsaturated zone, the diffusion wave equation for areal overland flow and the fully dynamic Saint Venant equations for flow in channels. Evapotranspiration from the surface and subsurface are modelled using land cover and climatic factors to define the complete water budget using a physically based formulation. The paper presents the results of a multi-criteria evaluation protocol that included graphical and statistical testing, which involved the use of seven data comparison plots. Results of model calibration and validation against pre-established criteria are presented and discussed.
Environmental benefits and social cost – an example of combining Bayesian networks and economic models for analysing pesticide management instruments
Authors: Henriksen H.J. , Kjær J. , Brüsh W. , Jacobsen L.-B. , Jensen J.D. , Grinderslev D. , Andersen P.
Published: November 2007

There is a need for introducing interdisciplinary tools and approaches in water management for participatory integrated assessment of water protection costs and environmental benefits for different management scenarios. This is required for the Water Framework Directive. Bayesian belief networks (BN) are one example of a possible tool for participatory integrated assessment. BNs allow knowledge and data from economic, social and hydrological domains to be integrated in a transparent, coherent and equitable way. The paper reports on the construction of a BN to assess impacts of pesticide management actions on agricultural economics and groundwater and drinking water quality, with the overall aim of exploring complexity and uncertainties.

With the participatory BN learning process data, expert knowledge and modelling results were combined into a cost-efficiency and cost-benefit analysis, BN being based on a focused dialogue between participating domain experts and end-users of the research. The instruments analysed by the constructed BN were taxes on pesticides and herbicides, and pesticide-free buffer zones around field edges and water abstraction wells.
Protection versus purification - assessing the benefits of drinking water quality
Authors: Hasler B. , Lundhede T. , Martinsen L.
Published: November 2007

Clean drinking water can be secured either through protection of the groundwater resource or via purification of polluted water. In this study, the choice experiment method is used to assess the benefits of groundwater protection compared with the benefits of purification. The choice experiment method has been chosen as it allows the effects on drinking water and those on surface water quality to be assessed separately. The benefits associated with clean drinking water are found to be significant for both management options, although the willingness to pay for protection exceeds the willingness to pay for purification.
Perception of flood hazard in countries of the North Sea region of Europe
Authors: Krasovskaia I. , Gottschalk L. , Skiple Ibrekk A. , Berg H.
Published: November 2007

Floods are natural phenomena and flood hazards cannot be eliminated. Thus it is necessary to learn living with this hazard. Floods represent a threat only with respect to human society, giving humans a central role: through location and through perception. Adequate perception of flood hazard is one of the premises to lower the vulnerability of the society and is an important element of non-structural measures for reducing flood risk. Public perception of flood hazard is essential for decision-making at all steps of flood risk assessment. The results of an investigation of the perception of flood hazard in five countries of the North Sea region of Europe are presented. 4000 Europeans living in flood-prone areas have been involved in the study. Stratified polls and focus groups were used as investigation tools. The study revealed many similarities in the perception of flood hazard among Europeans, such as limited interest in flood hazard, passiveness and reluctant attitude towards moving, while, for example, reckoning on flooding of their own houses differed between countries. The collected information offered a necessary background to streamline flood hazard information to laymen as well as for the second phase of the study, namely a search for consensus between public and authorities about what level of risk is tolerable.
Changes in water discharges of the Baltic states rivers in the 20th century and its relation to climate change
Authors: Reihan A. , Koltsova T. , Kriauciuniene J. , Lizuma L. , Meilutyte-Barauskiene D.
Published: November 2007

The river discharge changes in three Baltic States and its relation to changes in the main climatic variables such as precipitation and air temperature were analyzed using observed data and methods of empirical statistical analysis. The study is important for the development of efficient water resource management systems and validation of climate change impact models. The application of the Mann-Kendall test reveals that a significant increasing trend in winter air temperature and precipitation was determined for all 3 investigated periods (1923–2003, 1941–2003 and 1961–2003). The same trend was found for the winter and annual discharge time series. No trend was observed for the spring, summer and autumn seasonal streamflow and summer low flow series for most of the Baltic region. In general the relation between the main meteorological and hydrological parameters and the tendency in river discharge trends is common for all of the Baltic States, and might be associated with the regional impacts of global climate change.
Snowdrift formation in forested open drains: field study and modelling patterns
Authors: Vaikasas S. , Lamsodis R.
Published: November 2007

The problem of the clogging of open drains by drifting snow has become more significant along with the appearance of tendencies and considerations regarding the rehabilitation of these artificial watercourses by woody vegetation growing on slopes and riparian buffers. Referring to the full-scale field measurements supplemented with the results of hydraulic modelling of drifting snow, conducted to examine the influence of trees and shrubs growing on open drain slopes on the clogging of drains by snowdrift, it was determined that: (1) woody vegetation, influencing the distribution of snow within the riparian zones of the forested drain, contributes to the reduction of snow accumulation in its bed; (2) the clogging extent of forested drains depends on the type of pattern of cross section of woody vegetation strips (on this point there are some considerations presented); (3) it is possible to use hydraulic modelling of drifting snow to forecast some practical issues related with this phenomenon.
Deterministic evaluation of ensemble streamflow predictions in Sweden
Authors: Johnell Anna , Lindström Göran , Olsson Jonas
Published: November 2007

A system for ensemble streamflow prediction, ESP, has been operational at SMHI since July 2004, based on 50 meteorological ensemble forecasts from ECMWF. Hydrological ensemble forecasts are produced daily for 51 basins in Sweden. All ensemble members, as well as statistics (minimum, 25% quartile, median, 75% quartile and maximum), are stored in a database. This paper presents an evaluation of the first 18 months of ESP median forecasts from this system, and in particular their performance in comparison with today's categorical forecast. The evaluation was made in terms of three statistical measures: bias B, root mean square error RMSE and absolute peak flow error PE. For ESP forecasts the bias ranged between -20% and 80% with a systematic overestimation for Sweden as a whole. A comparison between bias in input precipitation and ESP output, respectively, revealed only a weak relationship, but streamflow overestimation is likely related mainly to model properties. The results from the streamflow forecast comparison showed that the ESP median in deterministic terms performs overall as well as the presently used categorical forecast. Further, ESP has the advantage of providing at least a qualitative measure of the uncertainty in the forecasts, with probability forecasts being the ultimate goal.
Parameter estimation in distributed hydrological modelling: comparison of global and local optimisation techniques
Authors: Blasone R.-S. , Madsen H. , Rosbjerg Dan
Published: November 2007

Much research has been spent in the last three decades in developing more effective and efficient automatic calibration procedures and in demonstrating their applicability to hydrological problems. Several problems have emerged when applying these procedures to calibration of conceptual rainfall–runoff and groundwater (GW) models, such as computational time, large number of calibration parameters, parameter identifiability, model response surface complexity, handling of multiple objectives and parameter equifinality. All these are expected to be much more severe for more complex models, for which comprehensive calibration studies have not so far been conducted. The scope of this paper is to investigate the performance of a global and a local optimisation technique, respectively, the Shuffled Complex Evolution algorithm and the gradient-based Gauss–Marquard–Levenberg algorithm, in calibration of physically based distributed models of different complexity. The models considered are a steady-state GW model, a transient GW model and a fully integrated model of the same catchment. The calibration is conducted in a multi-objective framework where two different aspects of the model response, the simulated runoff and the groundwater elevation are aggregated and simultaneously optimised. Different aggregated objective functions are used to give different weights to the calibration criteria. The results of the calibration procedures are compared in terms of effectiveness and efficiency and demonstrate the different performance of the methods. Moreover, a combination of the global and local techniques is investigated as an attempt to exploit the advantages of both procedures, while overcoming their drawbacks.
Impact of the North Atlantic Oscillation on river runoff in the Belarus part of the Baltic Sea basin
Authors: Danilovich I. , Wrzesiński D. , Nekrasova L.
Published: November 2007

The dynamics of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and river runoff in the Belarus part of the Baltic Sea basin have been studied. Correlation coefficients between NAO indices and monthly, seasonal and annual discharges were calculated, changes in the runoff in the opposite stages of NAO and its intra-annual distribution were analysed, and runoff trends for different time series were investigated. The closest connection could be observed between NAO indices for December–March and the runoff of Belarusian rivers in the Baltic basin. The highest correlation coefficients were calculated for winter and spring months. The intra-annual runoff differs in opposite stages of the North Atlantic Oscillation. The most significant increase of monthly runoff was observed after 1961. There was a positive trend of runoff at the beginning of the year, but a negative one in the summer and autumn months.
Biodegradation of six haloacetic acids in drinking water
Authors: Bayless Walt , Andrews Robert C.
Published: November 2007

Haloacetic acids (HAAs) are produced by the reaction of chlorine with natural organic matter and are regulated disinfection by-products of health concern. Biofilms in drinking water distribution systems and in filter beds have been associated with the removal of some HAAs, however the removal of all six routinely monitored species (HAA6) has not been previously reported. In this study, bench-scale glass bead columns were used to investigate the ability of a drinking water biofilm to degrade HAA6. Monochloroacetic acid (MCAA) and monobromoacetic acid (MBAA) were the most readily degraded of the halogenated acetic acids. Trichloroacetic acid (TCAA) was not removed biologically when examined at a 90% confidence level. In general, di-halogenated species were removed to a lesser extent than the mono-halogenated compounds. The order of biodegradability by the biofilm was found to be monobromo > monochloro > bromochloro > dichloro > dibromo > trichloroacetic acid.
Relative importance of the various environmental sources of Cryptosporidium oocysts in three watersheds
Authors: Phillip Dawn A. T. , Rawlins Samuel C. , Baboolal Shrimatee , Gosein Radha , Goddard Claudette , Legall George , Chinchamee Armanath
Published: November 2007

This study was conducted to guide the prioritisation of efforts to manage Cryptosporidum contamination of drinking water supplies in Trinidad, W.I. The main objective was to investigate the relative importance of three main types of sources of Cryptosporidium oocysts: urban, agriculture and wildlife. Weekly surface water samples were collected from 19 sites distributed among three watersheds, and examined for the presence of oocysts. A stratified random sampling design was used with each watershed representing one of the three main sources of oocysts listed above. Results showed a significant association between watershed and the occurrence of positive samples (χ2=16.523, d.f. =2, p = 0.000), indicating that land use influenced the presence of oocysts. Urban and forested lands were the two most important sources of oocysts. There was no apparent association between agriculture and the presence of oocysts, and there was no significant difference between the percentage of positive samples at sites below agricultural facilities and sites not associated with agriculture within a single watershed (χ2=2.45, d.f. =1, p = 0.117). We conclude that urban and wildlife are the main types of sources of Cryptosporidium contamination of surface water, whereas the contribution of agriculture is minor.
A study of the quality and hygienic conditions of spring water in Mongolia
Authors: Badrakh Altanzagas , Chultemdorji Tsolmon , Hagan Robert , Govind Salik , Tserendorj Tsevegdorj , Vanya Delgermaa , Dalaijamts Chimeddulam , Shinee Enhtsetseg
Published: November 2007

An assessment on quality and hygienic conditions of spring water was undertaken in Mongolia in 2004 with financial and technical support from the World Health Organization through AGFUND.

Methodology: A total of 127 springs, 99 from rural areas and 28 from Ulaanbaatar city were included in the study. The study included hygienic conditions, physical, microbiological and chemical parameters of springs. Based on the results of laboratory analysis, the quality of springs were classified into five degrees of contamination.

Results: The majority of springs studied and especially in UB city and the Central region had poor hygienic conditions such as low flow rate, turbidity or pollution sources in the vicinity of springs. 78% of the total studied springs did not have any protection or upgrade and 22% have only wooden, iron and stone fences. The water quality parameters such as hardness, total dissolved solids, oxygen demand, nitrogenous compounds, total microbial count, Escherichia coli were also significantly higher in springs located in UB city, the Central region and the East region. 47.6% of all studied aimag's (countryside) spring water were significantly polluted by more than three parameters especially E. coli, ammonia, oxygen demand, which indicated a recent contamination by human and animal excreta in water.

Conclusion: The current study revealed that the majority of springs in peri urban areas close to UB city and the Central region had poor hygienic conditions. Different levels of contamination using both microbiological and chemical tests were found in studied springs. It is recommended that regular assessment of spring water quality be undertaken to create awareness among communities and local authorities for further protection and upgrading of spring water sources.
Aeromonas detection and their toxins from drinking water from reservoirs and drinking fountains
Authors: Razzolini Maria Tereza Pepe , Di Bari Marisa , Sanchez Petra Sanchez , Zanoli Sato Maria Inês
Published: November 2007

Aeromonads are inhabitants of aquatic ecosystems and are described as being involved in intestinal disturbances and other infections. A total of 200 drinking water samples from domestic and public reservoirs and drinking fountains located in São Paulo (Brazil), were analyzed for the presence of Aeromonas. Samples were concentrated by membrane filtration and enriched in APW. ADA medium was used for Aeromonas isolation and colonies were confirmed by biochemical characterization. Strains isolated were tested for hemolysin and toxin production. Aeromonas was detected in 12 samples (6.0%). Aeromonas strains (96) were isolated and identified as: A. caviae (41.7%), A.hydrophila (15.7%), A.allosacharophila (10.4%), A. schubertii (1.0%) and Aeromonas spp. (31.2%).The results revealed that 70% of A. caviae, 66.7% of A. hydrophila, 80% of A. allosacharophila and 46.6% of Aeromonas spp. were hemolytic. The assay for checking production of toxins showed that 17.5% of A. caviae, 73.3% of A. hydrophila, 60% of A. allosacharophila, 100% of A. schubertii, and 33.3% of Aeromonas spp. were able to produce toxins. The results demonstrated the pathogenic potential of Aeromonas, indicating that the presence of this emerging pathogen in water systems is a public health concern.
A review of water and sanitation provision in refugee camps in association with selected health and nutrition indicators – the need for integrated service provision
Authors: Cronin A. A. , Shrestha D. , Cornier N. , Abdalla F. , Ezard N. , Aramburu C.
Published: November 2007

The first global overview of basic water and sanitation indicators in refugee camps is presented (using data from 2003–2006) and compared with selected health and nutrition indicators. This demonstrates that average levels of water and sanitation provision are acceptable at camp level but many refugee operations are suffering from gaps that cross-cut these sectors; e.g. typically poor sanitation provision is corresponding with low per capita availability of water. These findings were confirmed at household level with two household surveys undertaken in African refugee camps; households reporting a case of diarrhoea within the previous 24 hours collect on average 26% less water than those not reporting any cases. In addition, typically higher levels of morbidity of one infectious agent are also reflected across other infectious agents; this is reinforced by comparing the relationship between morbidity and nutrition status from selected camps. The importance that hygiene, environmental conditions and local settings have on health (both of refugees and also local communities) is underlined. Interventions to improve indicators across the water, sanitation, health and nutrition sectors rely not only on increased and sustained resources but must entail an integrated approach to simultaneously tackle short-comings across all these vital sectors.