bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population balance modeling for bubble columns operating in the homogeneous regime
Authors: Bhole M. R. , Joshi J. B. , Ramkrishna D.
Published: February 2007

A population balance model is developed for the prediction of the average gas holdup and axial gas holdup profile in the bubble columns operating in the homogeneous regime. The model takes into account the effect of bubble expansion along the column height and thus it is applicable to tall columns such as flotation columns in the mineral processing industries. The model captures the effect of superficial gas and liquid velocities, bubble rise velocity, operating pressure, and column height on the gas holdup. In the case of flotation columns, because of the presence of surfactants in the liquid phase, froth is observed at the top of the column. Typically, froth shows the axial profile of gas holdup and the mean bubble size, indicating that the coalescence is an important phenomenon to describe the dynamics of the froth. A probabilistic perspective is developed to address the bubble coalescence process occurring in the froth and the bubble transition probability for coalescence is obtained from experimental data in the literature. © 2007 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2007
Effects of the molecular orientation and crystallization on film–substrate interfacial adhesion in poly(ethylene terephthalate) film‐insert moldings
Authors: Leong Y. W. , Kotaki M. , Hamada H.
Published: February 2007

A film and substrate consisting of poly(ethylene terephthalate) were adhered by means of film‐insert molding. Two injection speeds (i.e., 50 and 500 mm/s) were chosen to induce different shear rates (and molecular orientation) between the film and the substrate. Annealing was subsequently performed on these specimens at different times and temperatures to examine the extent of orientation‐induced crystallization of the substrate surfaces embedded under the film. Differential scanning calorimetry thermograms clearly indicated a shift in the position of the secondary (β) crystalline phase toward a higher temperature in specimens molded at a 500 mm/s injection speed, suggesting that a more densely packed and well‐formed crystalline structure was generated because of higher localized orientation of molecules. Polarized Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses provided dichroic ratios of the 1340‐ and 1410‐cm−1 wavelengths, which corresponded to the trans‐glycol conformer and the stable benzene ring, respectively. Drastic increases in the dichroic ratios were observed, especially in specimens molded at a 500 mm/s injection speed after being annealed for 1 min. This could have been caused by the reorientation of molecules fueled by residual stresses, particularly in regions experiencing high shear during molding. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 2007
A classification and evaluation of Irish water beetle assemblages
Authors: Foster Garth N. , Nelson Brian H. , Bilton David T. , Lott Derek A. , Merritt Robert , Weyl Richard S. , Eyre Michael D.
Published: February 2007

1. Modern records of 165 species of wetland beetle (Haliplidae, Hygrobiidae, Noteridae, Dytiscidae, Gyrinidae, Georissidae, Hydrochidae, Helophoridae, Hydrophilidae, Hydraenidae, Scirtidae, Dryopidae, Elmidae, Chrysomelidae, Curculionidae) were assembled for analysis.

2. Two hundred and eighty nine modern lists of seven or more species of water beetle from sites in Ireland were subjected to multivariate analysis.

3. Ten assemblage types were identified using TWINSPAN. Habitats typical of these assemblages are: A. deep rivers; B. rivers with riffles; C. puddles; D. canals and lakes with rich vegetation; E. ponds and ditches; F. turloughs; G. natural, minerotrophic fens; H. base‐flushed cutover bogs; I. peat bogs; J. montane flushes. The distribution of these types is discussed.

4. Ordination of site data by DECORANA indicated that the important environmental variables dictating water beetle assemblage type in Ireland were: flow; water permanence; exposure; type of substratum. Acidity could not be isolated as a determinant, except within the analysis of assemblage types conducted using TWINSPAN. DECORANA isolated one brackish site as an outlier but salinity was not otherwise a major factor, probably because few brackish sites were included in the analysis.

5. The number of modern records for each species was used to provide a provisional set of species‐quality scores. A simple rationale was devised to weight these scores in favour of relict species and against elusive species, species with short‐lived adults and species primarily associated with man‐made habitats.

6. The average species‐quality score per site and the number of species recorded were used to rank sites within each TWINSPAN end‐group. The most diverse sites with the highest quality were some turloughs, rich fens and base‐flushed peat cutting complexes. Some montane lakes and flushes with relatively few species had high species‐quality scores.
Typifying macrofaunal communities of larger disturbed waters in The Netherlands
Authors: Verdonschot Piet F. M.
Published: February 2007

1. A survey was carried out in rivers, canals and large lakes in the province of Overijssel (The Netherlands) to describe the macrofauna assemblages and their environment. A total of 74 environmental variables was measured at each sampling site. The aim was to describe a typology of large‐sized water bodies for this region.

2. Different techniques of multivariate analysis were used in combination with ecological information on individual taxa to derive and describe site groups in terms of taxon composition and mean environmental conditions. The resulting site groups were termed cenotypes.

3. Nine cenotypes were distinguished. They showed great similarity in their composition of ubiquitous taxa and in environmental conditions. This similarity is, in part, due to anthropogenic influences. The large‐sized water bodies are mostly regulated or canalized and function as collectors of nutrients, organic material and toxicants. This results in cumulative chronic stresses which overrule the natural key factors of current and dimension.

4. Despite the similarity, differences between taxon assemblages could be attributed to combinations of key environmental factors; some taxa characteristic of the reach of a river or the gradient in size of canals were still present.

5. The typology offers a basis for practical use in regional water management and nature conservation. Some applications for water management are indicated.

6. Typological studies are vital (especially in semi‐natural landscapes) for an improvement in understanding, management and conservation of freshwater biota.
Wintering seaducks in Britian and Ireland: Populations, threats, conservation and research priorities
Authors: Kirby J. S. , Evans R. J. , Fox A. D.
Published: February 2007

This paper provides a detailed review of the status and distribution of wintering seaducks (Scaup, Eider, Long‐tailed Duck, Common Scoter, Velvet Scoter and Red‐breasted Merganser) in Britain and Ireland. It is based on a literature review plus analysis of National Waterfowl Counts (NWC) and other data. A summary of current knowledge of wintering seaducks is provided together with information on threats to populations, conservation goals and research needs.

Each species is examined in turn, with the emphasis on aspects of the population, habitat use, current distribution, trends and history. Important areas for individual species are highlighted.

Overall, seaduck populations have changed considerably, those for Eider and Red‐breasted Merganser having expanded greatly, whilst those for Scaup, Common and Velvet Scoter have declined during historical and/or recent times. The trend for Long‐tailed Ducks is unclear. British population estimates are considered to be out of date and need to be revised. The premier areas for seaduck communities are highlighted, thus providing basic information for conservation action and future monitoring.

Seaduck populations are threatened in a number of ways and the main factors are discussed. Oil pollution and the actions of commercial fisheries are the most important current threats. Conservation goals are suggested. These include an urgent need to develop appropriate domestic legislation to facilitate the protection of seaduck populations. Such legislation is currently almost entirely lacking.

Some priorities for research, particularly for better population monitoring of seaducks in British and Irish waters, are provided. These include: alterations to the NWC scheme to allow the collation of opportunistic counts, made when the conditions are amenable for censusing seaducks; extension of the scheme into areas not currently surveyed (e.g. most parts of Ireland); and the establishment of intensive survey programmes to monitor seaducks in the key areas of Britain and Ireland. It is hoped that this paper will serve to stimulate interest and commitment from all who play a part in safeguarding our seaduck heritage.
The establishment and impact of Pseudorasbora parva, an exotic fish species introduced into Lake Mikri Prespa (north‐western Greece)
Authors: Rosecchi Elisabeth , Crivelli Alain J. , Catsadorakis George
Published: February 2007

The topmouth gudgeon Pseudorasbora parva Schlegel, 1842, a south‐east asian cyprinid, was introduced accidentally in the Danube Delta in Romania in the 1960s and has now achieved a pan‐Danubian distribution. P. parva has been introduced into other countries, such as Greece, usually inadvertently included with other species imported for fish farming. In 1984–85, during a study of the fish populations of Lake Mikri Prespa (north‐west Greece), several topmouth gudgeon were caught. Our aim was to study the changes in the population size of P. parva over nearly 10 years, to study its life history traits and to assess its potential impacts on native fish species.

The catch per unit effort (CPUE) in spring increased significantly between 1984 and 1992. We found evidence that P. parva has established a breeding population in the lake. P. parva combines many characteristics likely to favour a successful colonization (resistance to harsh climatic conditions, early sexual maturity, extended breeding season, broad dietary spectrum). Growth in Lake Prespa, where the oldest individuals captured were 3 years old, is very similar to that observed within its native range.

There is evidence for dietary overlap between P. parva and three endemic species: Paraphoxinus epiroticus prespensis, Cobitis meridionalis and Alburnoides bipunctatus ohridanus. No decline in the populations of these three species has yet been demonstrated. Other possible impacts are discussed. The successful colonization by P. parva was certainly favoured by the absence of a true piscivorous fish in the lake and by the isolation and high level of endemism of fish communities.

The conservation of the many endemic species in the lake should be a priority and the introduction of exotic species should be banned.
Patterns in seabird distribution west of Scotland
Authors: Harrison Nancy M. , Webb Andy , Leaper Genevieve M.
Published: February 2007

The distribution of seabirds west of Scotland was studied relative to water masses in August 1988. Surface salinity was used to indicate the ship's position relative to the water masses described in the literature. Comparisons were made between seabird densities in Inshore Water, the Northern Coastal Current, the Southern Coastal Current and Atlantic/Hebridean Water.

Seabird density varied with water mass; some species distributions suggested strong habitat associations. Water masses represent marine habitats, with different physical regimes supporting different marine life; patterns in bird distribution are likely to reflect prey distribution and availability.

Manx shearwaters Puffinus puffinus, razorbills Alca torda, guillemots Uria aalge, and kittiwakes Rissa tridactyla were found mostly in Inshore Water, with lower densities in the Northern and Southern Coastal Current water. Only trace numbers of these species occurred in Atlantic/Hebridean Water.

Storm petrels Hydrobates pelagicus, fulmars Fulmarus glacialis and puffins Fratercula arctica were found in very low densities in Inshore Water, and were dispersed in higher densities throughout the more oceanic areas.

These data suggest that in late summer the Inshore Water of southwestern Scotland has the highest densities of seabirds potentially vulnerable in the event of an oil incident.
A survey of the threat of surface water acidification to the nature conservation interest of fresh waters on Sites of Special Scientific Interest in Britain
Authors: Rimes Carrie A. , Farmer Andrew M. , Howell David
Published: February 2007

This study collated information relating to acidification of running and standing waters on Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) throughout Britain in acid‐sensitive areas.

Of those SSSIs which occur in acid‐sensitive areas of Britain, 196 have water bodies. The following information was obtained for each site if available: details of local geology and soils, types of land use and management, water quality data and data relating to biological components of both the aquatic and riparian habitats.

In addition, samples from 112 water bodies were collected for water chemistry and epilithic diatom analysis. Results from each site were placed into existing critical loads and species response models to determine whether acidification had occurred.

Results showed that the fresh waters on 141 SSSIs had probably suffered acidification. This was most acute in north Wales, with mid Wales, south‐west and north‐east Scotland and northern England also being badly affected.

A wide variety of changes in the biological status of water bodies relating to acidification were found to have been recorded on SSSIs, ranging from phytoplankton, invertebrate and macrophyte community changes to decline of fish, amphibian, bird and mammal populations.

Catchment afforestation may be a problem in poorly buffered areas and has probably contributed to freshwater acidification on 40 SSSIs.

Comparison with critical loads maps for acidity in UK fresh waters reveals that existing commitments on acidifying emissions (the EC Large Combustion Plant Directive) will not be sufficient to prevent further acidification on a number of SSSIs. In order to achieve a protection of the nature conservation interest of fresh waters further commitments to emission reductions will be necessary.
Wetland vulnerability in East Anglia: The range of validity of a generalized classification approach
Authors: Gilvear D. J. , Tellam J. H. , Lloyd J. W. , Lerner D. N.
Published: February 2007

Wetlands are under threat from a variety of human activities and in response to this various assessment schemes have been devised. A recent hydrological vulnerability assessment procedure has been advanced by Lloyd et al. (1993) for East Anglia, UK, which deals with hydrological threats to fens. The assessment starts with a desk study which classifies a wetland into a particular hydrological class, and from this general statements can be made with regard to the wetland's likely vulnerability to such activities as water abstraction and pollution. No type of desk study, however, will always be able to predict the hydrological consequences of an activity with certainty. Thus, if protection of the wetland is of high priority, Lloyd et al. (1993) propose further stages of investigation of increasing expense and difficulty, involving hydrological monitoring and modelling.

The purpose of this article is to explore how much desk‐study classifications such as that of Lloyd et al. (1993) can reveal about wetland hydrological vulnerability, using East Anglian field investigation and hydrological monitoring evidence. Three sites in East Anglia have been examined over a 2 year period, and the water balance and hydrological processes, together with the hydrological vulnerability of each site, deduced. Comparing these data with the conclusions from the desk study indicates that the classification procedure was able generally to identify the vulnerability of wetlands correctly at the regional scale, but the detailed studies showed that local features, below the scale resolvable by the classification and desk‐study procedure, can easily lead to incorrect assessments.

The results of the East Anglian field investigations suggest that although classification procedures are adequate for providing general conclusions about the vulnerability of wetlands in a given region, they cannot be relied upon to be correct for a specific site and ensure its protection against any given hydrological threat. In the case of the assessment of important wetland sites, there is therefore no substitute for detailed hydrological and geological investigations. Because of the importance of seasonal hydrological data for detailed investigations and vulnerability assessment, it is also recommended that hydrological monitoring at a single point on important wetland sites should start well before an impact is envisaged.
Palaeoecological insights for the conservation of aquatic ecosystems in dryland environments: A case study of the Verlorenvlei system, South Africa
Authors: Baxter Andrew J. , Davies Bryan R.
Published: February 2007

Verlorenvlei, a dryland aquatic ecosystem in South Africa, has been identified as having enormous conservation importance. Although the system has Ramsar status and is widely regarded as being in ‘pristine' condition, neither statutory control nor any form of management is currently in existence.

Based on the analysis of fossil pollen derived from the sediments of Verlorenvlei, a sequence of rapid changes within the riparian and aquatic vegetation is identified. Synchronous changes in the rate of sedimentation suggest a threefold increase in annual sediment deposition since the mid‐18th century—the onset of colonial settlement.

The pollen spectra prior to the arrival of colonial settlers suggest that abundant Poaceae (grasses) and rooted aquatic plants dominated the vegetation of the site. Radical changes in the pollen record become evident after the time of European colonization. Aquatic vegetation, including Gentianaceae (water lilies) and Potamogetonaceae, show a marked decrease while riparian vegetation, particularly reed elements such as Cyperaceae, Typhaceae and Juncaceae, are seen to increase progressively. Terrestrial pollen indicators reveal an expansion in the vegetation of classic disturbance indicators such as Asteraceae, Oxalidaceae and Scrophulariaceae.

As the wetland has already endured rapid ecological adjustments in the face of colonial (and more recent) occupation of the broader landscape, it cannot be regarded as being in a ‘pristine’ state. Indeed, Verlorenvlei is interpreted as having reached a state of ‘transitional’ ecological equilibrium in which it continues to endure a number of rapid ecological changes; nonetheless, it is still worthy of conservation and management, not least because of its role as a strategic wetland in a dryland environment.

Failing the timely implementation of remedial action in the form of an integrated conservation and management plan, Verlorenvlei appears destined to become irreversibly altered.

Dryland aquatic ecosystems are vital aquatic resources in so called ‘Third World’ regions of the world yet, paradoxically, scientific research on, and the conservation of, these environments in the Southern Hemisphere are rare by comparison to wetland environments in the northern temperate zones. Although many dryland aquatic systems may already be altered, most are worthy of urgent management and conservation action, bearing in mind the fundamental question: ‘What is it that we wish to conserve?’.

A number of recommendations for the management of dryland aquatic ecosystems such as Verlorenvlei are listed.
Quantifying anthropogenic nutrient sources and loadings within a small catchment with conservation interests, eastern Scotland
Authors: Grieve I. C. , Gilvear D. J.
Published: February 2007

This paper demonstrates the possibility of quantifying sub‐catchment nutrient budgets from routinely monitored hydrological and hydrochemical data. The relative importance of a number of potential anthropogenic nutrient sources was quantified for a small catchment in Scotland. Within the catchment there are two Sites of Special Scientific Interest, including two lochs and a floodplain mire. The study was undertaken to provide information for prescribing strategies to safeguard the conservation interests of these aquatic systems.

The principal source of nitrate was found to be groundwater. Phosphate and ammonium loadings were greatest in surface run‐off. The evidence indicates that the greatest contributor towards these nutrient sources is agriculture. Even when conservative estimates of losses were applied, current fertilizer and animal inputs could account for present day nutrient loadings. In addition, changes in the area under arable farming and under individual crops during the past 30 years are consistent with trends in nitrate and phosphate loads.

Nutrient inputs from sewage works overflows and septic tanks within the catchment were estimated to be small. Leachate from a landfill site within the catchment was also not considered to be a major source of nutrients, but a more intensive water quality monitoring programme would be needed to confirm the absence of leachate plumes.

The only long‐term solution to reducing nutrient loadings to the aquatic systems is a reduction in agricultural activities within the catchment and avoidance of fertilizer and slurry applications near water sources. Diversion of drainage ditch waters supplying the floodplain mire is also a possibility but the hydrological consequences of such an action could induce more severe degradation than that due to nutrient enrichment.
The effect of catchment liming on bryophytes in upland Welsh streams, with an assessment of the communities at risk
Authors: Wilkinson S. M. , Ormerod S. J.
Published: February 2007

The effects of catchment liming, used to restore acidified streams, are still only partially known. In particular, the impact on aquatic bryophytes remains unappraised.

Six upland streams were surveyed for aquatic bryophytes from 1987–93, and three of their catchments limed experimentally in 1987–88 so that the resulting changes in the abundance and distribution of common bryophyte taxa could be assessed. An additional nine streams were surveyed during 1987–89, 1992 and 1993 using the same methods to give a wider indication of the bryophyte communities in streams where liming might occur.

Twenty‐nine bryophyte species were recorded from the wetted margins of these 15 upland streams. Percentage cover by individual species varied markedly, and was highest in Nardia compressa (up to 71%). Cover by most other species was limited to less than 5%.

Total bryophyte cover, and cover by Scapania undulata fluctuated from year to year so that no responses to liming could be detected. However, cover by Nardia compressa declined significantly from 39% ± 21% SD to 5% ± 2% SD in treated streams following lime addition. Reference streams showed no such change, and no other taxa increased in abundance to replace the lost Nardia in the 5 years after liming.

Changes of this type, and their possible ramifications for invertebrates, will have to be considered where catchment liming is planned.
Evidence of change in the macrofauna of tidal flats subject to anthropomorphic impacts in north‐east England
Authors: Evans S. M. , Arnott S. , Wahju R. I.
Published: February 2007

The study assessed differences that have occurred in macrofaunal assemblages of tidal flats subject to anthropomorphic impacts in north‐east England between 1931, when they were surveyed by Brady (1943), and 1991.

The dominant members of the assemblages were the same for both surveys, and almost all the taxa recorded by Brady were present in 1991. There were also similar groupings of data from individual sampling stations by MDS ordination of the 1931 and and 1991 results.

There is nevertheless evidence of change of two kinds. First, the Arenicola/Scoloplos/Cerastoderma/Macoma community, which was characteristic of the entire tidal flats at Budle Bay in 1931, had been replaced in north‐west corner of the Bay by an oligochaete‐dominated community in 1991. Second, numerical densities of macrofauna were much higher in 1991 than in 1931 at each of the study sites.
Effects of stream acidity on non‐breeding dippers cinclus cinclus in the south‐central highlands of Scotland
Authors: Logie John W.
Published: February 2007

Macroinvertebrate and Dipper Cinclus cinclus abundances and pH were assessed on four rivers in the south‐central highlands of Scotland in early winter 1990 to examine the general applicability of Dipper/acidity relationships established during the breeding season (Ormerod et al., 1985; Vickery, 1991).

The most acid waters had the lowest invertebrate biomasses and Dipper densities. Birds on these rivers spent significantly more of the morning foraging and less time at rest, apparently reflecting reduced prey capture rates and hence the greater time required to replace overnight mass losses.

Analysis of published data on seasonal changes in Dipper population densities and individual energetic demands suggests that even accounting for the higher numbers of Dippers in all habitats during autumn and winter, energetic requirements both of individuals and populations are greatest during breeding, when the costs of self maintenance are coupled with the additional demands of chick rearing.

However, from the patterns found here and elsewhere during autumn it appears that the effects of acidity on Dipper populations are important generally during both the breeding and non‐breeding seasons.
Home range and diet of re‐introduced European otters Lutra Lutra (L.) in Hertfordshire rivers
Authors: Roche Kevin , Harris Rebecca , Warrington Stuart , Copp Gordon H.
Published: February 2007

The distribution and diet of two groups of captive‐bred, re‐introduced otters Lutra lutra (L.) was assessed through the collection and analysis of spraints (faeces), collected between July 1992 and March 1994 from the Rivers Stort, Lee and Rib in Hertfordshire (UK).

Almost immediately after release in 1991, both groups of otters moved upstream of their release sites. In February 1992, one male was found dead on a road near the River Stort, and both groups appeared to have moved downstream, their total range eventually extending to about 40 km, from 8 km downstream of the confluence of the Rivers Stort and Lee to about 16 km up the Stort and 16 km up the Lee.

Fish, principally cyprinids, formed the major dietary element, with spatial differences in prey availability influencing the range of secondary items taken. Eels were the only prey category to show significant seasonal variation in spraints, occurring more often than expected in spring and summer spraints. Mammals/amphibia and birds were taken as prey only occasionally. Where environmental quality and/or prey species diversity were low, small‐bodied fish species, such as three‐spined stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus, bullhead Cottus gobio and stone loach Barbatula barbatula, occurred more frequently in the diet.

Only two of the seven IUCN criteria for re‐introductions appear to have been met before the otters' release, and subsequent assessments suggest that most other criteria were not. As there has been only one possible, but unconfirmed, sighting of a female with cubs, it remains unclear whether the released otters have reproduced and thus the success of the re‐introduction is doubtful.
Historical channel analysis and its application to riparian and aquatic habitat restoration
Authors: Kondolf G. Mathias , Larson Marit
Published: February 2007

The planning, design and evaluation of a restoration project should be guided largely by an understanding of past channel changes.

A historical analysis can sometimes reveal underlying causes of channel change and document prior habitat conditions, both useful in setting appropriate objectives for restoration.

Restoration planning should address the historical causes and patterns of channel degradation that cannot be detected by examining current conditions alone. Moreover, ongoing adjustments in the channel and changes in the catchment must be understood when interpreting channel changes following construction of restoration projects.

Changes in channel form (and the independent geomorphological variables of run‐off and sediment load from the catchment) can be documented from a variety of sources, including historical maps, boundary lines, aerial photography, bridge and pipeline surveys, gauging records, field evidence and archival sources. Historical riparian vegetation, and use by fish and wildlife, may also be documented from early survey records, photographs and written accounts.

Historical analysis should cover an area large enough to capture all events potentially influencing the project reach. The entire catchment upstream should be examined to identify events affecting the flow regime and sediment load, such as deforestation or dam construction. For channels in erodible alluvium, the study should include the channel downstream to the first stable grade control to capture events whose effects may propagate upstream, such as channelization or base lowering.

Application of historical channel analysis to the San Luis Rey River in California served as a basis for evaluating the potential for (and hydrological constraints upon) riparian restoration.
Sensitivity of alpine stream ecosystems to climate change and human impacts
Authors: McGregor G. , Petts G. E. , Gurnell A. M. , Milner A. M.
Published: February 2007

Climatic changes and water resource developments alter the relative contribution of the water sources (glacier‐melt, snow‐melt, rainfall run‐off and springflow) to the discharge regime of alpine streams.

Likely changes in the magnitude and variability of a range of climatic determinants of glacier behaviour, as a result of an enhanced Greenhouse Effect, are shown to have important implications for the future hydrogeomorphological and thermal dynamics of alpine streams.

Zoobenthic communities typically show deterministic patterns in alpine streams due to the over‐riding influence of water temperature and channel stability. These communities could act as indicators of change in the relative contribution of run‐off, particularly to alterations of glacier‐melt patterns.

A reduction of glacial meltwater, following diversion for HEP generation, is used as an example to illustrate the sensitivity of the zoobenthic communities to changes in temperature and flow regimes, and geomorphological dynamics.
Development of functional imidazole derivatives: the influence of alkaline metal cations on the rates of CL reactions of 2‐(phenyl and 4‐dimethylaminophenyl)‐4‐hydroperoxy‐4‐3′,4′‐(15‐crown‐5)phenyl‐5‐3″‐4″‐(15‐crown‐5)phenyl‐4H‐isoimidazoles
Authors: Kimura Masaru , Shi Kun , Hashimoto Koji , Hu Zhi Zhi
Published: February 2007

Although several investigations have focused on luminescence modulation by chelation with metal cations using bidentate ligands or crown ether systems, a bis(crown ether) system has not yet been used for modulation of chemiluminescence (CL) reactions. In the CL reaction of 2‐(phenyl and 4‐dimethylaminophenyl)‐4‐hydroperoxy‐4‐3′,4′‐(15‐crown‐5)phenyl‐5‐3″,4″(15‐crown‐5)phenyl‐4H‐isoimidazoles 2a and b possessing a bis(15‐crown‐5 ether) moiety, the rate acceleration was observed in the presence of K+, Rb+ and Cs+ due to the holding effect of the bis‐crown moiety, but no rate acceleration was observed by Li+ and Na+ due to the template effect of the crown moiety. The acceleration of the CL reaction rates is ascribable to the conformational change induced by the scissor‐like motion of the bis‐crown moiety assisted by the holding effect. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemiluminescence assay for tetrahydrobiopterin based on the generation of hydrogen peroxide using isoluminol‐microperoxidase in the presence of 1‐methoxy PMS
Authors: Arakawa Hidetoshi , Masuda Kouichi , Tajima Noriko , Maeda Masako
Published: February 2007

We developed a novel highly sensitive chemiluminescence (CL) method for BH4. The principle of the proposed method is based on active oxygen formation induced by 1‐methoxy‐5‐methyl phenazinium methyl sulphate (1‐methoxy PMS) in the presence of dissolved oxygen. Furthermore, active oxygen is determined by a CL assay involving the luminol reaction with microperoxidase. In this report, we examined the mechanism of formation and identified the reactive oxygen species derived from BH4 employing 1‐methoxy PMS. Additionally, optimum conditions for the CL assay of BH4 were established. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Qualitative growth and complementary technology: Beyond the technical fix
Authors: Fleming David
Published: February 2007

At present, improved environmental performance and corporate growth work hand in hand as part of a single business strategy. Growth enables the company to invest in environmental technology; environmental technology in turn enables it to grow while holding increases in environmental impact to a minimum. But this ‘Golden Age’ relationship could break down as the environmental benefits of technological advance are overwhelmed by growth in output. For this reason, there is already concern in some industries that the need to protect the environment may lead in due course to regulations designed to suppress further growth. However, any attempt to suppress growth would have extremely severe economic implications, and would require us to address the Growth Enigma: how are the needs of a stable economy and a stable environment to be met at the same time? The concept of ‘qualitative growth’, i.e. corporate strategy based on a reduced rate of growth, is examined with special reference to the airline industry and to Swissair, which has recently announced a qualitative growth strategy. It turns out that the company is not in fact implementing the strategy, but the declaration of intent itself reveals some valuable lessons which may help in a solution to the central problem of growth and the environment.
How green is the transnational corporation?
Authors: Miller Van , Quinn John
Published: February 2007

This paper discusses and criticises the often proposed transitional solution for global corporations in the light of an environmental imperative. The concept of an environmental imperative or demand is developed and advocated as equally important to the market demand that is inherent in the transnational solution. However, the environmental imperative itself is tempered by the characteristics of national regulatory regimes, which are presently the major force for change. Two case studies of businesses examined by the creators of the transnational solution are offered as evidence that corporations are not as indifferent to the environment as the creators of the solution are. Based on the findings from the two cases, some tentative proposals are advanced regarding the organisation of global corporations.
Fine tuning the dinosaur? Environmental product innovation and strategic threat in the automotive industry: A case study of the Volkswagen Audi Group
Authors: Gouldson Andy
Published: February 2007

The environmental impacts associated with the life cycle of the automobile are pronounced. Indeed, many environmentalists suggest that through its lifetime the core product of the automotive industry is the most polluting product on earth. This paper analyses the response to such criticism from one particular automotive manufacturer, the Volkswagen Audi Group.

The paper charts the improvements that are being realised by VW throughout the life cycle of the car, particularly in relation to product use and disposal. It is suggests that the efforts of the automotive industry to reduce its environmental impact through incremental improvements in the environmental efficiency of each car are continually undermined by an overall increase in the level of transport. Thus, it is concluded that the ability of the automotive industry to manage the life cycle impact of its product is severely constrained unless it can dramatically influence the demands of its customers, and that potentially this is an issue of fundamental strategic importance for the industry as a whole.
Breaking the link between quality and the environment: Auditing for sustainability and life cycle assessment
Authors: Welford Professor Richard
Published: February 2007

This article outlines the trend in business towards the integration of environmental issues into quality management. It outlines how standards like BS7750 and the EU eco‐management and audit scheme are based on a paradigm which stresses environmental management as a continuous cycle of incremental improvement which ignores many of the wider aspects of sustainable development. In an attack on the dominant ideology surrounding environmental management the article stresses the need to change corporate cultures, to move towards new auditing methodologies, to put increasing stress on life‐cycle assessment, and to increase (and not deregulate) environmental legislation.
Community advisory panels within the chemical industry: Antecedents and issues
Authors: Lynn Frances M. , Chess Caron
Published: February 2007

Community Advisory Panels (CAPs) are currently being sponsored by the American chemical industry as a way to repair lost trust. Over 200 CAPs are currently in operation. Their goals, composition and impact vary. Like governmental advisory committees they run the risk of being vehicles of persuasion as opposed to bodies which bring about organisational or health and safety changes. This article reviews the evidence we have to date about CAP operations and sets an agenda for future research.
Life cycle management: Integrated approach towards corporate environmental issues
Authors: Linnanen Lassi
Published: February 2007

An integrated approach towards environmental management, the concept of life cycle management, is presented. Life cycle management consists of three parts: (i) integrating environmental issues into the decision‐making process of the company; (ii) optimizing the environmental impact caused by the product system during its life cycle; and (iii) creating a new organizational culture to support the decision‐making process. The concept was developed during the compilation of an environmental management handbook for Finnish industry. The model combines a market‐oriented environmental management approach, a circular value chains approach and an organizational culture approach.
Global corporate environmentalism: Theoretical expectations and empirical experience
Authors: Himmelberger Jeffery James , Brown Halina Szejnwald
Published: February 2007

Since the mid‐1980s the concept of corporate environmentalism has taken hold among global stakeholders, promising improved environmental health and safety (EH&S) performance at multinational (MNC) facilities in less developed countries. In this article we examine corporate environmentalism through two lenses: (1) our own empirical case studies of three Third World subsidiaries of USA‐based multinationals; (2) evolving theories on EH&S performance at MNC subsidiaries in less developed countries. We suggest that over the past decade there has been a convergence of three theoretical perspectives – neoclassical, radical and ecological – toward consistent predictions of improved EH&S performances and relations with host country governments. However, important differences among the three perspectives remain in how each interprets improved EH&S performance in the context of long‐term benefits to corporations, host countries, workers, local publics and the global community. While we find that the neoclassical economic perspective is most consistent with the empirical findings of our three case studies, we also note some debatable neoclassical assumptions concerning whether all stakeholders benefit mutually from superior EH&S performance. In order to gain wide acceptance beyond the corporate sector, the concept of corporate environmentalism must be expanded to include greater labor participation and accounting for ecological interests.
Ecology and competitiveness in Swiss industries
Authors: Belz Frank , Hugenschmidt Heinrich
Published: February 2007

This article investigates ecological problems and their influence on competitiveness in two selected Swiss industries: food and transportation. Ecological problems defined at a bio‐physical level and the ecological stakes defined at a socio‐economic level will be analysed. The ‘matrix of ecological problems’ and the ‘matrix of ecological stakes’ are useful and powerful instruments for analysing these two levels. It will be shown that ecological problems and ecological stakes vary from industry to industry. Ecological problems lead to ecological stakes. The ecological stakes lead to ecological changes within the two industries. The central forces of competition are influenced due to ecological issues. In order to be prepared for these changes, companies have to develop strategies which meet both economic and ecological requirements. Examples for such strategies are given in the text.
Adjudicative competence and comprehension of Miranda rights in adolescent defendants: a comparison of legal standards
Authors: Viljoen Jodi L. , Zapf Patricia A. , Roesch Ronald
Published: February 2007

Currently, there is considerable variability and ambiguity in legal standards pertaining to juveniles' comprehension of Miranda rights and their adjudicative competence. This study investigated rates of impairment under various proposed legal standards. One hundred and fifty‐two young defendants aged 11–17 were assessed with Grisso's Miranda Instruments and the Fitness Interview Test—Revised. While over half of defendants aged 15 and under were classified as impaired in adjudicative capacities when adult norms were applied, significantly fewer adolescents were classified as impaired when adolescent norms were applied or a standard of “basic understanding and communication.” Also, while over half of defendants aged 15 and under were classified as impaired in their comprehension of Miranda rights when both understanding and appreciation of Miranda rights were required, significantly fewer youth were classified as being impaired when only understanding was required. The implications of these findings are discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of death qualification, belief in a just world, legal authoritarianism, and locus of control on venirepersons' evaluations of aggravating and mitigating circumstances in capital trials
Authors: Butler Brooke , Moran Gary
Published: February 2007

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of death qualification, belief in a just world (BJW), legal authoritarianism (RLAQ), and locus of control (LOC) on venirepersons' evaluations of aggravating and mitigating circumstances in capital trials. 212 venirepersons from the 12th Judicial Circuit in Bradenton, FL, completed a booklet that contained the following: one question that measured their attitudes toward the death penalty; one question that categorized their death‐qualification status; the BJW, LOC, and RLAQ scales; a summary of the guilt and penalty phases of a capital case; a 26‐item measure that required participants to evaluate aggravators, nonstatutory mitigators, and statutory mitigators on a 6‐point Likert scale; sentence preference; and standard demographic questions. Results indicated that death‐qualified venirepersons were more likely to demonstrate higher endorsements of aggravating factors and lower endorsements of both nonstatutory and statutory mitigating factors. Death‐qualified participants were also more likely to have a high belief in a just world, espouse legal authoritarian beliefs, and exhibit an internal locus of control. Findings also suggested that venirepersons with a low belief in a just world and an external locus of control demonstrated higher endorsements of statutory mitigators. Participants with legal authoritarian beliefs revealed higher endorsements of aggravators and lower endorsements of nonstatutory mitigators. Legal implications and applications are discussed. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Vinyl‐Pyridinium Triphenylamines: Novel Far‐Red Emitters with High Photostability and Two‐Photon Absorption Properties for Staining DNA
Authors: Allain Clémence , Schmidt Falk , Lartia Rémy , Bordeau Guillaume , Fiorini‐Debuisschert Céline , Charra Fabrice , Tauc Patrick , Teulade‐Fichou Marie‐Paule
Published: February 2007

A series of mono‐, bis‐ and trisvinyl‐pyridinium triphenylamines (TP‐py) has been synthesised and evaluated for its one‐ and two‐photon absorption (2PA) induced‐fluorescence properties under biological conditions. Interestingly, these compounds are only weakly fluorescent in water, whereas their fluorescence emissions are strongly restored (exaltation factors of 20–100) upon binding to double‐stranded DNA. Additional measurements in glycerol indicate that the fluorescence increases are the result of immobilisation of the dyes in the DNA matrix, which inhibits rotational de‐excitation modes. This particular feature is especially remarkable in the case of the bis and tris derivatives (TP‐2 py, TP‐3 py), which each display a high affinity (Kd ∼μM) for dsDNA. TPIF measurements have shown that TP‐2 py and TP‐3 py each have a large 2PA cross section (δ up to 700 GM) both in glycerol and in the presence of DNA, which ranks them amongst the best 2PA biological fluorophores. Finally, one‐ and two‐photon confocal imaging in cells revealed that these compounds perform red staining (λem=660–680 nm) of nuclear DNA with excellent contrast. The remarkable optical properties of the TP‐py series, combined with their high photostability and their easy synthetic access, make these compounds extremely attractive for use in confocal and 2PA microscopy.
Hyperspectral NIR image regression part II: dataset preprocessing diagnostics
Authors: Burger James , Geladi Paul
Published: February 2007

When known reference values such as concentrations are available, the spectra from near infrared (NIR) hyperspectral images can be used for building regression models. The sets of spectra must be corrected for errors, transformed to reflectance or absorbance values, and trimmed of bad pixel outliers in order to build robust models and minimize prediction errors. Calibration models can be computed from small (<100) sets of spectra, where each spectrum summarizes an individual image or spatial region of interest (ROI), and used to predict large (>20 000) test sets of spectra. When the distributions of these large populations of predicted values are viewed as histograms they provide mean sample concentrations (peak centers) as well as uniformity (peak widths) and purity (peak shape) information. The same predicted values can also be viewed as concentration maps or images adding spatial information to the uniformity or purity presentations. Estimates of large population statistics enable a new metric for determining the optimal number of model components, based on a combination of global bias and pooled standard deviation values computed from multiple test images or ROIs. Two example datasets are presented: an artificial mixture design of three chemicals with distinct NIR spectra and samples of different cheeses. In some cases it was found that baseline correction by taking first derivatives gave more useful prediction results by reducing optical problems. Other data pretreatments resulted in negligible changes in prediction errors, overshadowed by the variance associated with sample preparation or presentation and other physical phenomena. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.