bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inversion of the seismic AVF/AVA signatures of highly attenuative targets
Authors: Innanen Kristopher A.
Published: January 2011

Frequency-dependent seismic field data anomalies, appearing in association with low-[Formula: see text] targets, have, on occasion, been attributed to the presence of a strong absorptive reflection coefficient. This “absorptive reflectivity” represents a potent, and largely untapped, source of information for determining subsurface target properties. It would most likely be encountered where a predominantly elastic/nonattenuating overburden suddenly is interrupted by a highly attenuative target. Series expansions of absorptive reflection coefficients about small parameter contrasts and incidence angles can expose these anomalies to analysis, either frequency-by-frequency (amplitude variation with frequency [AVF]) or angle-by-angle (amplitude variation with angle of incidence [AVA]). Within this framework, variations in P-wave velocity and [Formula: see text] can be estimated separately through a range of direct formulas, both linear and with nonlinear corrections. The latter come to the fore when a contrast from an incidence medium [Formula: see text] (i.e., acoustic/elastic) to a target medium [Formula: see text] is encountered, in which case the linearized estimate can be in error by as much as 50%. Algorithmically, it is a differencing of the reflection coefficient across frequencies that separates [Formula: see text] variations from variations in other parameters. This holds for both two-parameter (P-wave velocity and [Formula: see text]) problems and five-parameter anelastic problems, and would appear to be a general feature of direct absorptive inversion.
Seismic migration of blended shot records with surface-related multiple scattering
Authors: (Eric) Verschuur D. J. , (Guus) Berkhout A. J.
Published: January 2011

This paper focuses on the concept of using blended data and multiple scattering directly in the migration process, meaning that the blended input data for the proposed migration algorithm includes blended surface-related multiples. It also means that both primary and multiple scattering contribute to the seismic image of the subsurface. Essential in our approach is that multiples are not included in the Green’s functions but are part of the incident wavefields, utilizing the so-called double illumination property. We find that complex incident wavefields, such as blended primaries and/or blended multiples, require a reformulation of the imaging principle in order to provide broadband angle-dependent reflection properties.
Conservation of endocochlear potential in mice with profound hearing loss induced by co-administration of kanamycin and furosemide
Authors: Xiong Hao , Chu Hanqi , Zhou Xiaoqin , Huang Xiaowen , Cui Yonghua , Zhou Liangqiang , Chen Jin , Li Jianling , Wang Yan , Chen Qingguo , Li Zhiyong
Published: January 2011

Research in mammalian hair cell regeneration is hampered by a lack of in vivo model of adult mouse inner ear injury. In the present study we investigated the effects of a combination of a single dose of aminoglycoside followed by a loop diuretic in adult mice. The auditory brainstem response threshold shift, extent and defining characteristics of the cochlear lesion were assessed and verified at different time points post-treatment. Our data indicated that this drug combination caused the rapid and extensive death of outer hair cells (OHCs). OHC death presented throughout the cochlea that commenced in the basal turn by 24 h and progressed apically. In contrast, inner hair cell (IHC) loss was delayed and mild. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling-positive nuclei demonstrated that the majority of OHCs died via an apoptotic pathway. Auditory threshold shifts of up to 90 dB SPL indicated a profound hearing loss. In addition, the endocochlear potential (EP) in the drug-treated animals displayed a significant decline at 12 h post-treatment followed by recovery by 48 h post-treatment. Despite this recovery, there was a significant and progressive decrease in strial vascularis thickness, which was predominantly due to atrophy of marginal cells. The present study reproduced an adult mouse model of aminoglycoside-induced hearing loss. The mechanism underlying the recovered EP in the model with extensive hair cell death is discussed.
Importância do método de gota espessa de sangue no diagnóstico de filárias simpátricas no Amazonas, Brasil
Authors: Medeiros Jansen F , Pessoa Felipe Arley Costa , Martins Marilaine
Published: January 2011

Esse trabalho relata os métodos de diagnósticos para filárias humanas no sangue, referindo-se a importância do método de gota espessa em relação aos métodos de filtração em membrana de policarbonato e Knott na diferenciação das espécies de microfilárias, principalmente em áreas de ocorrência de mais de uma espécie, como em regiões do Amazonas. Lâminas com microfilárias de Mansonella ozzardi foram montadas e fotografadas pelos diferentes métodos de diagnósticos. O método da gota espessa de sangue é o mais confiável, pois permite visualizar com nitidez o espaço cefálico e caudal, disposição dos núcleos caudais e formato da cauda, que são características morfológicas que diferenciam as espécies de microfilárias sanguíneas que ocorrem no Amazonas.
Distribuição do vírus rábico no sistema nervoso central em ruminantes naturalmente infectados
Authors: Silva Maria Luana C.R , Riet-Correa Franklin , Galiza Glauco J.N , Azevedo Sérgio S , Afonso José A.B , Gomes Albério A.B
Published: January 2011

Com o objetivo de identificar a distribuição das lesões do vírus rábico no sistema nervoso central de casos espontâneos de raiva em ruminantes e comparar as técnicas de imunofluorescência direta (IFD), inoculação em camundongos (ICC) e presença de corpúsculos de Negri para o diagnóstico da doença foram analisados materiais proveniente de 48 casos de raiva, incluindo amostras de córtex frontal, temporal, parietal e occipital, hipocampo, tálamo, colículo rostral e caudal, cerebelo, ponte, medula oblonga, núcleo da base e porções da medula cervical, torácica e lombar. De 48 amostras analisadas, todas foram positivas na IFD e na ICC e em 30 (62,5%) foram encontrados corpúsculo de Negri (CN). No entanto, houve diferenças importantes no resultados dos três testes nas diferentes regiões do SNC avaliadas. Nos cortes de córtex cerebral, em 38 bovinos, a presença de corpúsculos de inclusão foi baixa (11%-37%) assim como a positividade para IFD e ICC (60-80%). Pelo contrário, todas as amostras de ponte, tálamo e medula testados foram positivas para IFD e ICC. Em outras regiões do tronco encefálico e também no cerebelo a positividade para ICC e IFD foi de 60% a 96,7%. No cerebelo foi encontrada a maior frequência (88,2%) de corpúsculos de inclusão. Em oito ovinos as provas de ICC e IFD foram positivas em todos os cortes e foram observados corpúsculos de inclusão em três animais. Foram analisados somente dois casos de caprinos encontrando-se corpúsculos de inclusão em um e ambos foram positivos para IFD e ICC. Os resultados obtidos nesse trabalho sugerem que a conduta recomendada pelo Manual Técnico de Controle da Raiva dos Herbívoros (MTCRH) permite o diagnóstico de raiva associando o estudo histológico aos testes de IFD e ICC que incluem cerebelo, tálamo e tronco encefálico que apresentam alta positividade para as provas de IFD e ICC. No entanto, a melhor conduta é a de incluir metade do encéfalo cortado longitudinalmente e amostras de medula. Isto permite examinar por IFD e ICC uma ou mais regiões onde essas provas apresentam maior positividade e, posteriormente, se essas provas fossem negativas, retornar ao material original e examinar outras regiões. Por outro lado, a coleta de amostras dos locais recomendados pela MTCRH, assim com a coleta de metade do encéfalo, podem prejudicar o diagnóstico de outras doenças para o qual é necessário o estudo de todo o encéfalo após a fixação em formaldeído, para constatar a simetria e a distribuição das lesões. Nestes casos, com base nos resultados obtidos neste trabalho, pode ser recomendado para diagnóstico laboratorial de raiva o envio exclusivo de porções da medula cervical, dorsal e lombar, já que as três porções apresentaram 100% de positividade nas provas de IFD e ICC. Além disso, o estudo histológico de todas as porções do cérebro incluídas neste trabalho permitirá complementar o diagnóstico.
Consumo, digestibilidade dos nutrientes e parâmetros ruminais em bovinos alimentados com silagem de capim-mombaça
Authors: Vieira B.R. , Obeid J.A. , Pereira O.G. , Valadares Filho S.C. , Carvalho I.P.C. , Azevedo J.A.G.
Published: January 2011

Avaliaram-se o consumo, a digestibilidade aparente total e parcial dos nutrientes, o pH e a concentração de amônia ruminal em bovinos alimentados com silagem de capim-mombaça e concentrado nas seguintes proporções: 80:20, 65:35, 50:50 e 35:65, com base na matéria seca. Foram utilizados quatro animais Holandês x Zebu, com peso corporal médio inicial de 229kg, canulados no rúmen e abomaso, e distribuídos em quadrado latino 4x4. Os consumos de matéria seca (MS), matéria orgânica (MO), proteína bruta (PB), extrato etéreo (EE) e carboidratos totais (CHOT), expressos em kg/dia, e a digestibilidade parcial dos carboidratos não fibrosos (CNF) apresentaram comportamento linear crescente, com resposta platô nos níveis de concentrado de 54,1; 54,8; 52,9; 62,2; 55,2 e 52,7%. O consumo dos demais nutrientes, exceto da fibra em detergente neutro (FDN), e as digestibilidades aparente total de MS, MO e CNF e a parcial de MO aumentaram linearmente com o incremento do concentrado nas dietas. Não foram encontradas diferenças no consumo e nas digestibilidades aparente total e parcial da FDN. Para concentração de amônia e pH ruminal, observou-se efeito quadrático de tempo de amostragem, com valores máximos de 24,76mg/dL e 6,53 em 2,8 e 3,5 horas após a alimentação, respectivamente.
Choice of grazed herbage or maize silage by lactating dairy cows: influence of sward height and concentrate level
Authors: Hernandez-Mendo O. , Leaver J.D.
Published: January 2011

The preference of lactating dairy cows for grazed herbage or maize silage (MS), simultaneously offered ad libitum in the field, was examined at two sward heights (SH 4-6 and 8-10cm) and two concentrate levels (CL 0 and 6kg day-1) in a 2x2 factorial arrangement within a completely randomised experimental design. The experiment lasted 35 days and was carried out in spring using 24 multiparous Holstein Friesian cows. On average, the cows proportionately spent more time grazing than eating MS (0.85:0.15) and even though the higher rate of intake (RI) of dry matter (DM) of MS compared with grazed herbage (76 versus 26g DM min-1), the proportion of total DM intake as herbage was higher compared to that of MS (0.56:0.44). The higher crude protein and low fibre content of grazed herbage appeared to have a higher priority of choice than RI, as the cows chose to graze for longer (grazing time 385 min, MS feeding time 67min) despite the lower RI of herbage. The low proportion MS intake indicated that RI was a secondary factor of choice. Concentrate supplementation had a greater depressing effect on herbage intake than on MS intake. These results suggest that the animals reduce the intake of feed with lower RI when the labor associated to eat is decreased. The factors influencing the choice for herbage over maize silage remain unclear.
Caracterização molecular e variabilidade genética de acessos elite de mandioca para fins industriais
Authors: Vieira Eduardo Alano , Fialho Josefino de Freitas , Faleiro Fábio Gelape , Bellon Graciele , Fonseca Kenia Gracielle da , Carvalho Luiz Joaquim Castelo Branco , Silva Marilia Santos
Published: January 2011

Marcadores moleculares são ferramentas úteis na caracterização molecular de acessos de mandioca, em razão de apresentarem elevada capacidade de detecção das informações contidas no genoma. O objetivo deste trabalho foi caracterizar, por meio de marcadores RAPD, 20 acessos de mandioca para fins industriais conservados no Banco Regional de Germoplasma de Mandioca do Cerrado (BGMC). Em laboratório, os acessos foram avaliados por meio de marcadores RAPD, sendo posteriormente estimada a matriz de similaridade genética entre os acessos, por meio do índice de Jaccard. A análise, feita através de 11 iniciadores, gerou um total de 120 marcadores RAPD, dos quais 74 (62%) foram polimórficos, revelando a presença de elevada variabilidade genética no grupo de acessos avaliados. A análise de agrupamento revelou a formação de apenas um agrupamento forte, formado pelos acessos BGMC 1130, BGMC 788, BGMC 1270 e BGMC 1107, o que indica que, no melhoramento genético de mandioca, não devem ser priorizadas hibridações entre esses acessos, sob pena de efeitos de endogamia. Por sua vez, o acesso BGMC 436 foi o mais divergente em relação aos demais e, como expressa elevado potencial produtivo na região do Cerrado do Brasil Central, representa boa opção como genitor para o melhoramento de mandioca para essa região. O estudo comprovou que os marcadores RAPD são eficientes na determinação da variabilidade genética dos acessos avaliados e que neste grupo existe elevada variabilidade genética passível de ser utilizada no melhoramento genético.
Evidence produced by qualitative investigations on type 2 diabetes: a review of the literature
Authors: Castellanos Marcelo Eduardo Pfeiffer , Barros Nelson Filice de , Spadacio Cristiane , Alegre Sarah Monte , Tovey Philip , Broom Alex
Published: January 2011

Type 2 diabetes has a major impact on patients lives and the healthcare network. Given the growth in qualitative information on diabetes, it becomes important to systematize this knowledge. A meta-study on diabetes was conducted through analysis on 42 articles that were made in journals at the periodicals portal of the Coordination Office for Advancement of Higher-level Personnel (Capes). We found that the studies reviewed had a good theoretical basis, which included: care management, health-disease concepts, professional-patient relationships, professional practices and treatment compliance. The articles clearly described the methodological procedures used. The use of interviews and focal groups for data gathering predominated, and it was sought to explore different views of the individuals investigated. It was reaffirmed that it was important for health professionals and managers to implement healthcare policies, programs and models that are appropriate for the specific features of chronic illness, guided by comprehensive care and co-responsibility.
Diel and seasonal movements of grumatã Prochilodus lineatus (Valenciennes 1836) (Characiformes: Prochilodontidae) in the Sinos River, Southern Brazil
Authors: Pesoa NA. , Schulz UH
Published: January 2011

Prochilodus lineatus is a reophilic migratory species of economical importance for local fisheries which is widely distributed in Brazil. The present study investigated diel and seasonal movement patterns, spawning migration and habitat use of P. lineatus in the Sinos River, Southern Brazil. Between August 2002 and March 2004, 19 grumatãs were tagged internally with digitally coded radio transmitters. Tracking was conducted weekly by boat or aircraft, and six fixed data loggers recorded movements of tagged fish. Results showed that the mean distance covered per fish and day was positively related with fish weight (p = 0.03; n = 19). Grumatã showed preference for river streches surrounded by wetlands (p < 0.001; n = 286). Their diel activity pattern displayed one peak at 7 hours, and a second at 15 hours. During the night, activity was significantly reduced (p = 0.01). The seasonal movements pattern showed increased activity in October 2002 - March 2003 and from October 2003 to January 2004. Multiple regression analysis did not show a significant relationship between distance covered and temperature or water level (p = 0.116; n = 19). No synchronized long distance spawning migrations were observed. The mean distance covered by the individuals/day showed a negative significant relationship with number of tracking days (p = 0.022; n = 19), indicating a higher probability of being captured for more mobile individuals. The preservation of the still existing wetlands and reduction of the fishing pressure are essential for the future conservation of the grumatã population of the Sinos River.
Envelhecimento pulmonar acelerado em pacientes com obesidade mórbida
Authors: Melo Saulo Maia D'Ávila , Melo Valdinaldo Aragão de , Melo Enaldo Vieira de , Menezes Filho Raimundo Sotero de , Castro Vinicius Leite de , Barreto Matheus Santana Paes
Published: January 2011

OBJETIVO: Determinar a idade pulmonar de pacientes com obesidade mórbida e compará-la com a idade cronológica desses pacientes, ressaltando o dano precoce da obesidade mórbida sobre os pulmões. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal, prospectivo e aberto que envolveu 112 indivíduos: 78 pacientes com obesidade mórbida (grupo de estudo) e 34 indivíduos não obesos e com função pulmonar normal (grupo controle). Todos os pacientes realizaram espirometria para a determinação da idade pulmonar. A idade pulmonar e a idade cronológica dos indivíduos em cada grupo foram comparadas isoladamente e entre os grupos. RESULTADOS: A diferença entre a idade pulmonar e a idade cronológica no grupo com obesidade mórbida foi significativa (p < 0,0001; IC95%: 6,6-11,9 anos), com uma diferença média de 9,1 ± 11,8 anos. A diferença da idade pulmonar entre o grupo de estudo e o grupo controle foi significativa (p < 0,0002; IC95%: 7,5-16,9 anos), com uma diferença média de 12,2 ± 2,4 anos. A idade pulmonar demonstrou uma correlação positiva com a idade cronológica e o índice de massa corpórea (IMC) e uma correlação negativa com as variáveis espirométricas (p < 0,0001 para todos). A análise de regressão linear múltipla identificou as variáveis IMC e idade cronológica (p < 0,0001) como fatores preditivos significativos da idade pulmonar. CONCLUSÕES: A idade pulmonar está aumentada em pacientes com obesidade mórbida, sugerindo dano precoce e envelhecimento pulmonar acelerado, como evidenciado pela discrepância entre a idade cronológica e idade pulmonar. A determinação da idade pulmonar pode se tornar uma nova ferramenta na compreensão dos resultados da função pulmonar para pacientes e profissionais da saúde em relação ao controle da obesidade.
Escala Razões para Fumar da Universidade de São Paulo: um novo instrumento para avaliar a motivação para fumar
Authors: Souza Elisa Sebba Tosta de , Crippa José Alexandre de Souza , Pasian Sonia Regina , Martinez José Antônio Baddini
Published: January 2011

OBJETIVO: Desenvolver uma nova escala voltada para a avaliação da motivação para fumar, incorporando questões do 68-item Wisconsin Inventory of Smoking Dependence Motives (WISDM-68, Inventário Wisconsin dos Motivos de Dependência ao Fumo, de 68 itens) na Modified Reasons for Smoking Scale (MRSS. Escala Razões para Fumar Modificada). MÉTODOS: Nove questões do WISDM-68 relativas à associação estreita, exposição a gatilhos/processos associativos e controle de peso foram incorporadas às 21 questões da MRSS. Um total de 311 fumantes (214 homens; idade média = 37,6 ± 10,8 anos; média de cigarros consumidos ao dia = 15,0 ± 9,2) responderam a nova escala, o Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND, Teste de Fagerström para Dependência de Nicotina) e outras questões. Empregamos a análise fatorial exploratória para determinar a estrutura fatorial da escala. A influência de algumas características clínicas nos escores da solução fatorial final foi também avaliada. RESULTADOS: A análise fatorial revelou uma solução com 21 questões agrupadas em nove fatores: dependência, prazer de fumar, redução da tensão, estimulação, automatismo, manuseio, tabagismo social, controle de peso e associação estreita. Para a escala como um todo, o coeficiente alfa de Cronbach foi de 0,83. As mulheres exibiram maiores escores para dependência, redução da tensão, manuseio, controle de peso e associação estreita do que os homens. Os escores do FTND correlacionaram-se positivamente com dependência, redução da tensão, estimulação, automatismo, tabagismo social e associação estreita. O número de cigarros fumados ao dia se associou com dependência, redução da tensão, estimulação, automatismo, associação estreita e manuseio. Os níveis de CO exalado mostraram associações positivas com dependência, automatismo e associação estreita. CONCLUSÕES: A nova escala fornece um quadro aceitável dos fatores motivacionais associados ao tabagismo, com confiabilidade e propriedades psicométricas satisfatórias.
Electrochemical removal of pentachlorophenol in a lab-scale platinum electrolyzer
Authors: Wu Ting-Nien
Published: January 2011

This study is focused on the removal of pentachlorophenol from its aqueous phase by electrochemically induced degradation with Pt electrodes. The objective of this study was to contrast the electrochemical removal of pentachlorophenol at the oxidative and the reductive potentials, and further to understand how to apply the electrochemical treatment on PCP degradation. Lab experiments were conducted in a Pt electrolyzer, and the voltage source was supplied and precisely controlled by an electrochemical analyzer. In these experiments, the variables including electrolyte species, pH, voltage supply, and reaction time were examined to compare the efficiency of pentachlorophenol removal. Experimental results showed that pentachlorophenol was completely degraded after being electrolyzed for 1 h at−1.5 V in a 0.5 M KCl solution, while the removal of pentachlorophenol is negligible under the similar condition when 0.5 M NaNO3 or Na2CO3 was used as the electrolyte. The electrolyte concentration below 0.5 M is unfavourable for the electrochemical removal of pentachlorophenol. The removal efficiency of pentachlorophenol is slightly affected by pH, and the strong basic environment might impede the degradation of pentachlorophenol. Comparing with those under positive potentials, the experiments conducted under negative potentials have shown a better removal of pentachlorophenol with a higher current efficiency. It implies that pentachlorophenol degradation followed the reductive pathway. Based on the analysis of GC/MS, the intermediates of pentachlorophenol degradation were identified as 1,2-dichlorocyclohexane and 2-chlorocyclohexanol.
Benefits of high energy UV185 nm light to inactivate bacteria
Authors: Liu Yi , Ogden Kimberly
Published: January 2011

Inactivating and eliminating bacteria from ultra pure water (UPW) systems is always a significant problem for semiconductor and pharmaceutical industries. To alleviate the problem, ultraviolet (UV) radiation—both monochromatic UV254 light and high pressure UV185 light—is traditionally used for bacterial sterilization and in the case of the later, breakdown of trace organic molecules. The focus of this work is to understand the factors that influence the effectiveness of these UV treatments on Xanthomonas sp. bacteria typically found in UPW systems. In particular, the factors associated with the reactor condition, such as the light source and environment were investigated. It is shown that inactivation follows first order kinetics, and that the rates are comparable to others found in the literature for gram negative bacteria. Also, growth phase and harvesting conditions are shown to influence inactivation rate. Furthermore, it was determined that UV185 radiation, although limited by water absorption, significantly enhances the inactivation rate of bacteria if given suitable transmission distance. Rates of inactivation were enhanced by 40% when UV185 light is used in addition to UV254 light.
Alternative biological systems for the treatment of vinasse from wine
Authors: Vlyssides A. , Barampouti E. M. , Mai S. , Stamatoglou A. , Tsimas E.
Published: January 2011

This work studied alternative treatment schemes for the vinasse wastewater from wine distilleries aiming at overcoming the problems caused by the high nitrogen and sulfur concentrations. A plexiglas laboratory-scale upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactor of 20 L volume that was operated at 45°C and hydraulic retention time 1 d, was included in all the examined systems. System 1 was the conventional UASB reactor, system 2 was the UASB reactor supplemented with iron. System 3 consisted of the UASB reactor supplemented with iron and a CSTR reactor that operated under the following conditions: Diluted Oxygen 1.2 mg/L, Hydraulic Retention Time 1 d, pH 6.7 and Temperature 45°C. System 3 aimed at converting ammonium directly to dinitrogen gas under anaerobic conditions but it needed to be preceeded by a first partial nitrification step. All systems had high COD efficiencies over 75%. Ferrous iron addition apart from enhancing the performance of systems 2 and 3, it was able to retain all sulphur content of the wastewater as ferrous sulfide stripping the biogas from hydrogen sulfide. System 3 also managed to meet its goal, since it achieved an 86% nitrogen reduction. Conclusively, system 3 seems to be a very promising environmental technology for the treatment of distillery and winery byproducts, as well as industrial wastewater with high sulfur and nitrogen content.
Knowledge-based system for automatic MBR control
Authors: Comas J. , Meabe E. , Sancho L. , Ferrero G. , Sipma J. , Monclús H. , Rodriguez-Roda I.
Published: January 2011

MBR technology is currently challenging traditional wastewater treatment systems and is increasingly selected for WWTP upgrading. MBR systems typically are constructed on a smaller footprint, and provide superior treated water quality. However, the main drawback of MBR technology is that the permeability of membranes declines during filtration due to membrane fouling, which for a large part causes the high aeration requirements of an MBR to counteract this fouling phenomenon. Due to the complex and still unknown mechanisms of membrane fouling it is neither possible to describe clearly its development by means of a deterministic model, nor to control it with a purely mathematical law. Consequently the majority of MBR applications are controlled in an “open-loop” way i.e. with predefined and fixed air scour and filtration/relaxation or backwashing cycles, and scheduled inline or offline chemical cleaning as a preventive measure, without taking into account the real needs of membrane cleaning based on its filtration performance. However, existing theoretical and empirical knowledge about potential cause-effect relations between a number of factors (influent characteristics, biomass characteristics and operational conditions) and MBR operation can be used to build a knowledge-based decision support system (KB-DSS) for the automatic control of MBRs. This KB-DSS contains a knowledge-based control module, which, based on real time comparison of the current permeability trend with “reference trends”, aims at optimizing the operation and energy costs and decreasing fouling rates. In practice the automatic control system proposed regulates the set points of the key operational variables controlled in MBR systems (permeate flux, relaxation and backwash times, backwash flows and times, aeration flow rates, chemical cleaning frequency, waste sludge flow rate and recycle flow rates) and identifies its optimal value. This paper describes the concepts and the 3-level architecture of the knowledge-based DSS and details the knowledge-based control module. Preliminary results of the application of the control module to regulate the air flow rate of an MBR working with variable flux demonstrates the usefulness of this approach.
Presence of selected priority and personal care substances in an onsite bathroom greywater treatment facility
Authors: Eriksson E. , Donner E. , Ledin A.
Published: January 2011

In recent years, concerns about climate change and the inefficient use and ongoing pollution of water resources have increased the political motivation to encourage water recycling. This has led to the widespread introduction of water saving measures and to advances in the decentralised treatment and reuse of wastewater. In particular, the treatment and reuse of greywater has received attention, although important information such as greywater substance loadings is still only rarely available. With the implementation of the European Water Framework Directive the focus on controlling and phasing-out Priority/Priority Hazardous Substances (PS/PHS) is growing, and it is vital to know their sources and flows in order to generate sustainable emission control strategies. The main objective of this study was to quantify the concentrations and loads of PS/PHS and personal care substances in bathroom greywater, and to thereby assess the contribution of household activities to municipal wastewater loads for these substances. Nickel and mercury may be sourced substantially from household activities as it shown in the paper that bathroom greywater contributed a significant proportion of the overall load of these substances at the municipal wastewater treatment plant. Organic matter in the influent greywater was found to be principally associated with large particles (>8 μm), however it was the dissolved and small sized particles that were predominantly removed in the treatment.
Effect of Raw Material and Processing Factors on the Production of Effervescent Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) Tea Tablets
Authors: Nguyen Van Tang , Pham Quang T
Published: January 2011

An investigation was carried out to determine the effects of some factors on the production of effervescent artichoke tea tablets from dried artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.): extraction solvent composition, extraction temperature, extraction time, ratios of leaf, flower, stalk and root of dried artichoke, concentration of spray-drying solution, spray-drying temperature, spray-drying carrier, concentration of spray-drying carrier, proportion of effervescent agent, and components proportion of effervescent agent. The recommended extraction solvent was water with 10 percent of ethanol 96 percent (v/v), with an extraction temperature of 100°C, soak time of 14 hours, first extraction time of one hour, second extraction time of three hours. The dried artichoke raw material consisted of 1.0 parts leaf, 0.5 parts flower, 1.0 parts stalk and 1.5 parts root. The recommended concentration of spray-drying solution was 20 percent, spray-drying temperature of 150°C, spray-drying carrier was maltodextrin at a concentration of 10 percent. The recommended effervescent agent consisted of 1.0 parts citric acid, 1.0 parts tartaric acid and 2.44 parts sodium bicarbonate, added at 45 percent of total weight of effervescent tablet.
Effects of Different Temperatures on Storage Quality of Heavily Salted Cod (Gadus morhua)
Authors: Nguyen Minh V , Jonsson Asbjorn , Thorarinsdottir Kristin A , Arason Sigurjon , Thorkelsson Gudjon
Published: January 2011

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of different storage temperatures (+2°C, -4°C, -12°C, -18°C and -24°C) and time (0, 1, 3 and 6 weeks) on the quality of heavily salted cod. The color, water content, water holding capacity (WHC), cooking yield, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB-N) and trimethylamine (TMA) of the samples were determined. Results showed that the whiteness of the salted cod decreased slightly, whereas the yellow/orange color increased during the storage period. The WHC and cooking yield increased and were inversely related to water content. The TVB-N value increased slightly, whilst a lightly decrease in TMA value was observed. Storage at -4°C and lower temperatures had a detrimental influence on the color of the product which is the main quality criterion for salted cod. Therefore, it is not suitable to store the product at -4°C or lower temperatures.
Relative Antioxidant Activity of Common Indian Herbs
Authors: Vankar Padma S , Srivastava Jyoti
Published: January 2011

Ten Indian herbs (Manjisth, Tagar, Kulfa, Khuskhus, Gokharu, Carrot, Kasni, Bathua, Soya ke Beej, Pudina), popularly used for medicinal purpose, were extracted in sonicator by methanol and water for the estimation of polyphenols and flavonoids. Antioxidant capacities (AOC) of extracts were evaluated based on their ability to scavenge the DPPH radical and FRAP Assay. The results showed that methanolic extract of all the plant materials had very high antioxidant activity. Amongst them, Pudina extract in the methanol showed highest value of AOC by both FRAP and DPPH methods (33 percent and 1.36 mg QEq / 100 g). Total phenol and flavonoids content were also evaluated for these extracts. It varied from 0.8736 to 6.3918 mg GAE / 100 g and 0.3642 to 1.9876 mg QE / 100 g. Total ash content and acid insoluble content of soya showed highest value i.e. 14.55 percent and 92.92 percent.
Simulation of Hydrodesulfurization Trickle Bed Reactor
Authors: Farahani Hadi F , Shahhosseini Shahrokh
Published: January 2011

The existence of sulfur in crude oil and petroleum fractions imposes plenty of harmful effects to the environment and process equipment. Therefore, elimination of these compounds from petroleum cuts has extensively been studied. In this research, the process of hydrodesulfurization of dibenzothiophene as one of the most stable sulfur components has been discussed and nonisothermal heterogeneous modeling and simulation of the three-stage trickle bed reactor has been performed. The catalyst, used in this operation, is CoMo/Al2O3. A kinetic equation, based on the Langmuir-Hingshelwood method of rate determination was incorporated into the model. The feed of the reactor was assumed to be gas oil and reactor inlet temperature and pressure were 354°C and of 70barg, respectively. The presence of stagnant liquid pockets between catalyst particles and the heat production due to highly exothermic HDS reactions have been considered in this model. The simulation results showed sulfur conversion of 99% in the final product and good agreement between the simulation results and the experimental data were achieved. In addition, two-dimensional modeling of the first bed of the reactor was conducted. The results indicated that maximum conversion rate occurred at the central axis of the reactor. The model has the ability of determining the position of the hot spots inside the reactor.
Trends in the Prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes in Asians Versus Whites
Authors: Lee Ji Won R. , Brancati Frederick L. , Yeh Hsin-Chieh
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

To examine trends in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes and related conditions in Asian Americans compared with non-Hispanic whites.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We analyzed data from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) from 1997 to 2008 to construct a nationally representative sample of 230,503 U.S. adults aged ≥18 years. Of these adults, 11,056 identified themselves as Asian Americans and 219,447 as non-Hispanic whites.

RESULTS

The age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of type 2 diabetes was higher in Asian Americans than in whites throughout the study period (4.3–8.2% vs. 3.8–6.0%), and there was a significant upward trend in both ethnic groups (P < 0.01). BMI also was increased in both groups, but age- and sex-adjusted BMI was consistently lower in Asian Americans. In fully adjusted logistic regression models, Asian Americans remained 30–50% more likely to have diabetes than their white counterparts. In addition, Asian Indians had the highest odds of prevalent type 2 diabetes, followed by Filipinos, other Asians, and Chinese.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with their white counterparts, Asian Americans have a significantly higher risk for type 2 diabetes, despite having substantially lower BMI. Additional investigation of this disparity is warranted, with the aim of tailoring optimal diabetes prevention strategies to Asian Americans.
The Relation of Diabetes, Impaired Fasting Blood Glucose, and Insulin Resistance to Left Ventricular Structure and Function in African Americans
Authors: Fox Ervin R. , Sarpong Daniel F. , Cook Joe C. , Samdarshi Tandaw E. , Nagarajarao Harsha S. , Liebson Philip R. , Sims Mario , Howard George , Garrison Robert , Taylor Herman A.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

We assessed the relation of diabetes and insulin resistance (IR) on left ventricular (LV) structure and function in African Americans.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Among those receiving echocardiograms in cycle 1 of the Jackson Heart Study, we assessed the sex-specific relation of fasting blood glucose (FBG), diabetes, and IR to LV structure and function, adjusting for age, systolic blood pressure, antihypertensive medications, and BMI.

RESULTS

Among 2,399 participants, LV mass index (Pwomen = 0.0002 and Pmen = 0.02), posterior wall thickness (Pwomen = 0.01 and Pmen = 0.05), and interventricular septal wall thickness (Pwomen = 0.01) were related to FBG categories. Among those with normal FBG and no diabetes, concentric remodeling and low ejection fraction in women and LV mass index and posterior wall thickness in men were related to IR.

CONCLUSIONS

In the largest study of its kind in a community-based cohort of African Americans, we found a relation of FBG category and IR to LV structure and function.
Liver ATP Synthesis Is Lower and Relates to Insulin Sensitivity in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Schmid Albrecht Ingo , Szendroedi Julia , Chmelik Marek , Krššák Martin , Moser Ewald , Roden Michael
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Steatosis associates with insulin resistance and may even predict type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular complications. Because muscular insulin resistance relates to myocellular fat deposition and disturbed energy metabolism, we hypothesized that reduced hepatic ATP turnover (fATP) underlies insulin resistance and elevated hepatocellular lipid (HCL) contents.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We measured hepatic fATP using 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy in patients with type 2 diabetes and age- and body mass–matched controls. Peripheral (M and M/I) and hepatic (suppression of endogenous glucose production) insulin sensitivity were assessed with euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamps.

RESULTS

Diabetic individuals had 29% and 28% lower peripheral and hepatic insulin sensitivity as well as 42% reduced fATP than controls. After adjusting for HCL, fATP correlated positively with peripheral and hepatic insulin sensitivity but negatively with waist circumference, BMI, and fasting plasma glucose. Multiple regression analysis identified waist circumference as an independent predictor of fATP and inorganic phosphate (PI) concentrations, explaining 65% (P = 0.001) and 56% (P = 0.003) of the variations. Hepatocellular PI primarily determined the alterations in fATP.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance relates to perturbed hepatic energy metabolism, which is at least partly accounted for by fat depots.
Insulin Infusion During Normoglycemia Modulates Insulin Secretion According to Whole-Body Insulin Sensitivity
Authors: Anderwald Christian , Tura Andrea , Grassi Angela , Krebs Michael , Szendroedi Julia , Roden Michael , Bischof Martin G. , Luger Anton , Pacini Giovanni
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Glucose is the major stimulus for insulin release. Time course and amount of insulin secreted after glycemic stimulus are different between type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients and healthy subjects. In rodents, it was demonstrated that insulin can modulate its own release. Previous studies in humans yielded contrasting results: Insulin was shown to have an enhancing effect, no effect, or a suppressive effect on its own secretion. Thus, we aimed to evaluate short-term effects of human insulin infusion on insulin secretion during normoglycemia in healthy humans and T2DM subjects of both sex.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Hyperinsulinemic-isoglycemic clamps with whole-body insulin-sensitivity (M) and C-peptide measurements for insulin secretion modeling were performed in 65 insulin-sensitive (IS) subjects (45 ± 1 year, BMI: 24.8 ± 0.5 kg/m2), 17 insulin-resistant (IR) subjects (46 ± 2 years, 28.1 ± 1.3 kg/m2), and 20 T2DM patients (56 ± 2 years, 28.0 ± 0.8 kg/m2; HbA1c = 6.7 ± 0.1%).

RESULTS

IS subjects (M = 8.8 ± 0.3 mg · min−1 · kg−1) had higher (P < 0.00001) whole-body insulin sensitivity than IR subjects (M = 4.0 ± 0.2) and T2DM patients (M = 4.3 ± 0.5). Insulin secretion profiles during clamp were different (P < 0.00001) among the groups, increasing in IS subjects (slope: 0.56 ± 0.11 pmol/min2) but declining in IR (−0.41 ± 0.14) and T2DM (−0.87 ± 0.12, P < 0.00002 IR and T2DM vs. IS) subjects. Insulin secretion changes during clamp directly correlated with M (r = 0.6, P < 0.00001).

CONCLUSIONS

Insulin release during normoglycemia can be modulated by exogenous insulin infusion and directly depends on whole-body insulin sensitivity. Thus, in highly sensitive subjects, insulin increases its own secretion. On the other hand, a suppressive effect of insulin on its own secretion occurs in IR and T2DM subjects.
Web-Based Depression Treatment for Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetic Patients
Authors: van Bastelaar Kim M.P. , Pouwer François , Cuijpers Pim , Riper Heleen , Snoek Frank J.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Comorbid depression is common in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, adversely affecting quality of life, diabetes outcomes, and mortality. Depression can be effectively treated with cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). The Internet is a new and attractive method for delivering CBT intervention on a large scale at relatively low costs. This study evaluated the effectiveness of Web-based CBT for depression treatment in adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, with minimal guidance.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Netherlands in 255 adult diabetic patients with elevated depressive symptoms. Primary outcomes were depressive symptoms. Secondary outcomes were diabetes-specific emotional distress and glycemic control. Assessments were at baseline, after treatment, and at the 1-month follow-up.

RESULTS

The Web-based CBT was effective in reducing depressive symptoms by intention-to-treat analyses (P = 0.04, d = 0.29; clinical improvement 41% vs. 24% P < 0.001) and by per-protocol analyses (P < 0.001, d = 0.70; clinical improvement, 56% vs. 24% P < 0.001). The intervention reduced diabetes-specific emotional distress (P = 0.03) but had no beneficial effect on glycemic control (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Web-based CBT depression treatment is effective in reducing depressive symptoms in adults with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In addition, the intervention reduces diabetes-specific emotional distress in depressed patients.
Association Between Periodontitis and Impaired Fasting Glucose and Diabetes
Authors: Choi Youn-Hee , McKeown Robert E. , Mayer-Davis Elizabeth J. , Liese Angela D. , Song Keun-Bae , Merchant Anwar T.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Many studies have reported that periodontal disease is associated with diabetes, but its relation with impaired fasting glucose (IFG) has been understudied. This study investigated the relationship between chronic periodontitis, IFG, and diabetes in the U.S. population.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III, aged ≥20 years, who received periodontal examinations and provided blood samples (n = 12,254) were grouped into quintiles of mean clinical attachment loss (CAL) and pocket depth, with the lowest category being the reference. Plasma fasting glucose was categorized into three groups (normal, <100 mg/dL; IFG, ≥100 but <126 mg/dL; and diabetic, ≥126 mg/dL). Sociodemographic factors and other potential risk factors were obtained by interview or examination. SAS 9.1 was used for statistical analysis accounting for the complex weighted sampling.

RESULTS

Participants in the top quintile category of CAL had higher prevalence odds of IFG (odds ratio [OR] 1.55 [95% CI 1.16–2.07]) and diabetes (4.77 [2.69–8.46]) after adjustment for related confounders, compared with those in the bottom quintile. The highest quintile of pocket depth was positively associated with IFG (1.39 [1.00–1.92]) and diabetes (1.63 [1.10–2.42]) compared with the lowest quintile. ORs for CAL increased from the lowest to the highest quintile (P value test for trend <0.01) for all outcomes. The ORs for pocket depth also tended to rise across quintiles.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic periodontitis measured by CAL and pocket depth was positively associated in a linear relation with IFG and diabetes in U.S. adults.
Better Glycemic Control Is Associated With Maintenance of Lower-Extremity Function Over Time in Mexican American and European American Older Adults With Diabetes
Authors: Wang Chen-Pin , Hazuda Helen P.
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes is a major cause of functional decline among older adults, but the role of glycemic control remains unclear. This article assesses whether better glycemic control is associated with better maintenance of lower-extremity function over time in older adults with diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants (n = 119) in the San Antonio Longitudinal Study of Aging, ages 71–85, who met American Diabetes Association diabetes criteria were followed over a 36-month period. Seven measures of A1C (HbA1c) were obtained at 6-month intervals; three measures of lower-extremity function were obtained at 18-month intervals using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). A two-step analytic approach was used, first, to identify distinct glycemic control classes using latent growth mixture modeling and, second, to examine trajectories of lower-extremity function based on these classes using path analysis.

RESULTS

Two glycemic control classes were identified: a poorer control class with higher means (all >7%) and higher within-subject variability in HbA1c and a better control class with lower means (all <7%) and lower within-subject variability. The short-term and long-term maintenance of lower-extremity function, assessed by the association between the first and second SPPB measures and the first and third SPPB measures, were both greater in the better control class than in the poorer control class.

CONCLUSIONS

Among older adults with diabetes, better glycemic control may improve both short-term and long-term maintenance of lower-extremity function.
Suboptimal Performance of Blood Glucose Meters in an Antenatal Diabetes Clinic
Authors: Perera Nimalie Jacintha , Molyneaux Lynda , Constantino Maria Ines , McGill Marg , Yue Dennis Koon-See , Twigg Stephen Morris , Ross Glynis Pauline
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of blood glucose meters in diabetes associated with pregnancy (DP).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Finger-prick blood glucose levels measured using six different glucose meters on 102 patients with DP attending an antenatal clinic were compared with laboratory plasma glucose results. HbA1c and hematocrit were also measured.

RESULTS

The plasma glucose range was 2.2–9.4 mmol/L with hematocrit 33–37% and mean HbA1c 5.5% ± 0.56 (SD). All meters provided plasma equivalent results except one, which reported whole blood glucose that was adjusted to plasma equivalent values. The absolute glucose difference [meter − plasma glucose] was 0.232 ± 0.69 to 0.725 ± 0.62 mmol/L mean ± SD and bias ranged from 6.1 to 15.8%. Two meters were affected by hematocrit <36% (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Blood glucose meters in current use are not optimally accurate when compared with plasma glucose measurement in DP. Recognition of this deviation is essential to prevent inappropriate treatment of DP.