bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying human exposure to contaminants for multiple-barrier water reuse systems
Authors: Khan S. J. , McDonald J. A.
Published: January 2010

Reliance upon advanced water treatment processes to provide safe drinking water from relatively compromised sources is rapidly increasing in Australia and other parts of the world. Advanced treatment processes such as reverse osmosis have the ability to provide very effective treatment for a wide range of chemicals when operated under optimal conditions. However, techniques are required to comprehensively validate the performance of these treatment processes in the field. This paper provides a discussion and demonstration of some effective statistical techniques for the assessment and description of advanced water treatment plant performance. New data is provided, focusing on disinfection byproducts including trihalomethanes and N-nitrosamines from a recent comprehensive quantitative exposure assessment for an advanced water recycling scheme in Australia.
Evolutionary parameter optimization of a fuzzy controller which is used to control a sewage treatment plant
Authors: Ebner Marc , Stalph Patrick , Michel Martin , Benz Roland
Published: January 2010

In order to meet new environmental standards, sewage treatment plants may need to be redesigned or extended. Instead of reconstructing large parts of a sewage treatment plant, which can be very costly, it is in many cases sufficient to install relatively inexpensive equipment, which controls partscof the plant in a new way. Fuzzy controllers are often used for this task. Use of these controllers often leads to an improved water quality. Such fuzzy controllers contain a number of parameters which are determined by a human expert. With this contribution, a dedicated multi-objective evolutionary algorithm is developed to optimize these parameters. The evolutionary algorithm is based on the successful strength pareto evolutionary algorithm 2 (SPEA2). The fuzzy control parameters, which are optimized are continuous parameters. Therefore, an evolution strategy was employed which uses the multi-objective ranking as used by the SPEA2 algorithm. Optimal parameters were first evolved on simulated sewage treatment plants. One set of parameters was also tested on an actual plant. Owing to the enormous computational demands of simulating a sewage treatment plant, it is only possible to work with small population sizes. Nevertheless, it was possible to evolve parameters which were equally well as those found by a human expert indicating that the parameter tuning can be automized.
Treatment of segregated black/grey domestic wastewater using constructed wetlands in the Mediterranean basin: the zer0-m experience
Authors: Masi F. , El Hamouri B. , Abdel Shafi H. , Baban A. , Ghrabi A. , Regelsberger M.
Published: January 2010

Concerns about water shortage and pollution have received increased attention over the past few years, especially in developing countries with warm climate. In order to help local water management in these countries, the Euro-Mediterranean Regional Programme (MEDA) has financed the Zer0-m project ( www.zer0-m.org). As a part of this project, several constructed wetland (CW) pilot systems with different pre-treatments have been implemented in four Technological Demonstration Centres in Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia and Turkey. The aim of this research was to establish appropriate designs for treatment of segregated domestic black (BW) and grey water (GW). We tested several different multistage CW configurations, consisting of horizontal and vertical subsurface flow CW for secondary treatment and free water systems as tertiary stage. CW removal efficiencies of TSS, COD, BOD5, N-NH4+, N-NO3−, Ntot, total coliforms (TC) were evaluated for each of the implemented systems. The results from this study demonstrate the potential of CWs as a suitable technology for treating segregated domestic wastewater. A very efficient COD reduction (up to 98%) and nitrification (92–99%) was achieved for BW and GW in all systems. CW effluent concentrations were below 15 mg/L for BOD5, 1 mg/L for N-NO3− and 0.5 mg/L for N-NH4+ together with acceptable TC counts. Based on these results, we suggest adopting the design parameters used in this study for the treatment of segregated wastewater in the Mediterranean area.
Equivalency testing of TTC Tergitol 7 agar (ISO 9308-1:2000) with five culture media for the detection of E. coli in water samples in Greece
Authors: Mavridou A. , Smeti E. , Mandilara G. , Boufa P. , Vagiona-Arvanitidou M. , Vantarakis A. , Vassilandonopoulou G. , Pappa O. , Roussia V. , Tzouanopoulos A. , Livadara M. , Aisopou I , Maraka V. , Nikolaou E. , Karaouli V.
Published: January 2010

In this study ten laboratories in Greece compared the performance of reference method TTC Tergitol 7 Agar (with the additional test of β-glucuronidase production) with five alternative methods, to detect E. coli in water, in line with European Water Directive recommendations. The samples were prepared by spiking drinking water with sewage effluent following a standard protocol. Chlorinated and non-chlorinated samples were used. The statistical analysis was based on the mean relative difference of confirmed counts and was performed in line with ISO 17994. The results showed that in total, three of the alternative methods (Chromocult Coliform agar, Membrane Lauryl Sulfate agar and Trypton Bilex-glucuronidase medium) were not different from TTC Tergitol 7 agar (TTC Tergitol 7 agar vs Chromocult Coliform agar, 294 samples, mean RD% 5.55; vs MLSA, 302 samples, mean RD% 1; vs TBX, 297 samples, mean RD% −2.78). The other two alternative methods (Membrane Faecal coliform medium and Colilert 18/ Quantitray) gave significantly higher counts than TTC Tergitol 7 agar (TTC Tergitol 7 agar vs MFc, 303 samples, mean RD% 8.81; vs Colilert-18/Quantitray, 76 samples, mean RD% 18.91). In other words, the alternative methods generated performance that was as reliable as, or even better than, the reference method. This study will help laboratories in Greece overcome culture and counting problems deriving from the EU reference method for E. coli counts in water samples.
A multi-layer cellular automata approach for algorithmic generation of virtual case studies: VIBe
Authors: Sitzenfrei R. , Fach S. , Kinzel H. , Rauch W.
Published: January 2010

Analyses of case studies are used to evaluate new or existing technologies, measures or strategies with regard to their impact on the overall process. However, data availability is limited and hence, new technologies, measures or strategies can only be tested on a limited number of case studies. Owing to the specific boundary conditions and system properties of each single case study, results can hardly be generalized or transferred to other boundary conditions. virtual infrastructure benchmarking (VIBe) is a software tool which algorithmically generates virtual case studies (VCSs) for urban water systems. System descriptions needed for evaluation are extracted from VIBe whose parameters are based on real world case studies and literature. As a result VIBe writes Input files for water simulation software as EPANET and EPA SWMM. With such input files numerous simulations can be performed and the results can be benchmarked and analysed stochastically at a city scale. In this work the approach of VIBe is applied with parameters according to a section of the Inn valley and therewith 1,000 VCSs are generated and evaluated. A comparison of the VCSs with data of real world case studies shows that the real world case studies fit within the parameter ranges of the VCSs. Consequently, VIBe tackles the problem of limited availability of case study data.
The SHARON process in the treatment of landfill leachate
Authors: Vilar A. , Eiroa M. , Kennes C. , Veiga M. C.
Published: January 2010

The purpose of this paper was to study the partial nitrification of the nitrogen present in a landfill leachate applying the SHARON process in order to obtain a suitable effluent to the ANAMMOX process. As a first step, the SHARON reactor was fed anaerobically pre-treated leachate at an ammonium concentration of 2,000 mg N/L (1.1 kg N/m3 d). In such conditions, the average ammonium and nitrite concentrations in the effluent were 775 mg N/L and 1,225 mg N/L, respectively. During this period the COD removal was very low since most of the biodegradable organic matter was removed in the anaerobic pre-treatment. Afterwards, the SHARON reactor was fed leachate without a previous treatment and the efficiency of the partial nitritation diminished. As well, the COD removal increased, achieving a percentage around 28%.
Stability of metal oxide nanoparticles in aqueous solutions
Authors: Tso Chih-ping , Zhung Cheng-min , Shih Yang-hsin , Tseng Young-Ming , Wu Shian-chee , Doong Ruey-an
Published: January 2010

The application of nanoparticles in the processes of making commercial products has increased in recent years due to their unique physical and chemical properties. With increasing amount of commercial nanoparticles released into nature, their fate and effects on the ecosystem and human health are of growing concern. This study investigated the stability and morphology of three metal oxide nanoparticles in aqueous solutions. The commercially available nanoparticles, TiO2, ZnO, SiO2, aggregated quickly into micrometer-size particles in aqueous solutions, which may not threaten human health. Their changes in morphology and characteristics were further examined by dynamic light scattering (DLS) method and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Among the several dispersion approaches, ultrasonication was found to be the most effective for disaggregating nanoparticles in water. For these three selected nanoparticles, ZnO could not remain stable in suspensions, presumably due to the dissolution of particles to form high concentration of ions, resulting in enhanced aggregation of particles. In addition, the existence of dissolved organic matters stabilized nanoparticles in lake water and wastewater for several hours in spite of the high concentration of cations in these real-water samples. The fate of metal oxide nanoparticles in natural water bodies would be determined by the type and concentration of cations and organic matters. Results obtained in this study revealed that the stability of nanoparticles changed under different aqueous conditions and so did their fate in the environment.
The World Health Organization's water safety plan is much more than just an integrated drinking water quality management plan
Authors: Viljoen F. C.
Published: January 2010

South Africa is a country of contrasts with far ranging variations in climate, precipitation rates, cultures, demographics, housing levels, education, wealth and skills levels. These differences have an impact on water services delivery as do expectations, affordability and available resources. Although South Africa has made much progress in supplying drinking water, the same cannot be said regarding water quality throughout the country. A concerted effort is currently underway to correct this situation and as part of this drive, water safety plans (WSP) are promoted. Rand Water, the largest water services provider in South Africa, used the World Health Organization (WHO) WSP framework as a guide for the development of its own WSP which was implemented in 2003. Through the process of implementation, Rand Water found the WHO WSP to be much more than just another integrated quality system.
Integration between chemical oxidation and membrane thermophilic biological process
Authors: Bertanza G. , Collivignarelli M. C. , Crotti B. M. , Pedrazzani R.
Published: January 2010

Full scale applications of activated sludge thermophilic aerobic process for treatment of liquid wastes are rare. This experimental work was carried out at a facility, where a thermophilic reactor (1,000 m3 volume) is operated. In order to improve the global performance of the plant, it was decided to upgrade it, by means of two membrane filtration units (ultrafiltration –UF-, in place of the final sedimentation, and nanofiltration –NF-). Subsequently, the integration with chemical oxidation (O3 and H2O2/UV processes) was taken into consideration. Studied solutions dealt with oxidation of both the NF effluents (permeate and concentrate). Based on experimental results and economic evaluation, an algorithm was proposed for defining limits of convenience of this process.
Fluorescence monitoring for cross-connection detection in water reuse systems: Australian case studies
Authors: Hambly A. C. , Henderson R. K. , Baker A. , Stuetz R. M. , Khan S. J.
Published: January 2010

A rapid, highly sensitive method for detection of cross-connections between recycled and potable water in dual reticulation systems is required. The aim of this research was to determine the potential of fluorescence spectroscopy as a monitoring tool at three Australian dual distribution (drinking and recycled water) systems. Weekly grab samples of recycled and potable water were obtained over 12 weeks at each site and analysed for fluorescence excitation-emission matrix (EEM) spectroscopy, UV254, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), electrical conductivity and pH. Fluorescence EEM spectroscopy was able to differentiate between recycled and potable water at each site by monitoring the protein-like fluorescence at peak T—an excitation-emission wavelength pair of λex/em = 300/350 nm. While electrical conductivity was also able to distinguish between recycled and potable water, the differentiation was greatest when using fluorescence. For example, the peak T fluorescence in recycled water was up to 10 times that of potable water in comparison with electrical conductivity that had a maximum 5 times differentiation. Furthermore, by comparing the protein-like fluorescence at peak T and humic-like fluorescence at peak A (λex/em = 235/426 nm), the three different recycled water systems were able to be differentiated. Overall, fluorescence shows promise as a monitoring tool for detecting cross-connections.
Management of combined sewer overflows based on observations from the urbanized Liguori catchment of Cosenza, Italy
Authors: Piro P. , Carbone M. , Garofalo G. , Sansalone J. J.
Published: January 2010

This paper examines an urbanized catchment in Cosenza, Italy where an off-line basin intercepting CSOs was studied to illustrate reduction in CSO discharges to the Crati River. While the hydrologic transport of pollutant mass is never known a-priori and can be flow-limited, the volumetric requirements of the basin were modeled based on the classic assumption that wet weather flows transport urban and sewer loads in a mass-limited (first-flush) delivery. The volumetric capacity of the basin was varied from 10 to 50 m3/ha. Operational basin control was simulated with historical datasets from the Liguori catchment, event-based loading data, and continuous simulation modelling with SWMM. Utilizing data from the catchment, the SWMM simulations were conducted considering the storage basin with or without sedimentation treatment. Results illustrate the potential benefits of the off-line operation for the system with respect to the volume and mass reduction of CSOs into the Crati River. Results demonstrate the importance of particle size distribution (PSD) as an index of basin efficiency, coupled with analysis of the hydrodynamic response of the basin. The basin model attenuated influent PSDs, separating the coarser fraction of the PSD, and reduced the load of influent particulate matter (PM).
Toxicity and pollutant impact analysis in an urban river due to combined sewer overflows loads
Authors: Casadio A. , Maglionico M. , Bolognesi A. , Artina S.
Published: January 2010

The Navile Channel (Bologna, Italy) is an ancient artificial water course derived from the Reno river. It is the main receiving water body for the urban catchment of Bologna sewer systems and also for the Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) main outlet. The aim of this work is to evaluate the Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) impact on Navile Channel's water quality. In order to collect Navile flow and water quality data in both dry and wet weather conditions, two measuring and sampling stations were installed, right upstream and downstream the WWTP outflow. The study shows that even in case of low intensity rain events, CSOs have a significant effect on both water quantity and quality, spilling a considerable amount of pollutants into the Navile Channel and presenting also acute toxicity effects. The collected data shown a good correlations between the concentrations of TSS and of chemical compounds analyzed, suggesting that the most part of such substances is attached to suspended solids. Resulting toxicity values are fairly high in both measuring points and seem to confirm synergistic interactions between heavy metals.
Microbial diversity in biofilms on water distribution pipes of different materials
Authors: Yu J. , Kim D. , Lee T.
Published: January 2010

The effects of pipe materials on biofilm formation potential (BFP) and microbial communities in biofilms were analyzed. Pipe coupons made of six different materials (CU, copper; CP, chlorinated poly vinyl chloride; PB, polybutylene; PE, polyethylene; SS, stainless steel; ST, steel coated with zinc) were incubated in drinking water, mixed water (inoculated with 10% (v/v) of river water) and drinking water inoculated with Escherichia coli JM109 (E. coli), respectively. The highest BFPs were observed from steel pipes, SS and ST, while CU showed the lowest BFP values. Of the plastic materials, the BFP of CP in drinking water (96 pg ATP/cm2) and mixed water (183 pg ATP/cm2) were comparable to those of CU, but the other plastic materials, PB and PE, displayed relatively high BFP. The Number of E. coli in the drinking water inoculated with cultures of E. coli strain showed similar trends with BFP values of the pipe coupons incubated in drinking water and mixed water. Molecular analysis of microbial communities indicated the presence of α- and β-proteobacteria, actinobacteria and bacteroidetes in biofilm on the pipe materials. However, the DGGE profile of bacterial 16S rDNA fragments showed significant differences among different materials, suggesting that the pipe materials affect not only BFP but also microbial diversity. Some plastic materials, such as CP, would be suitable for plumbing, particularly for drinking water distribution pipes, due to its low BFP and little microbial diversity in biofilm.
The Healthy Worker Effect and Nuclear Industry Workers
Authors: Fornalski Krzysztof W. , Dobrzyński Ludwik
Published: January 2010

The linear no-threshold (LNT) dose-effect relationship has been consistently used by most radiation epidemiologists to estimate cancer mortality risk. The large scattering of data by International Agency for Research on Cancer, IARC ( Vrijheid et al. 2007 ; Therry-Chef et al. 2007 ; Cardis et al. 2007 ), interpreted in accordance with LNT, has been previously demonstrated ( Fornalski and Dobrzyński 2009 ). Using conventional and Bayesian methods the present paper demonstrates that the standard mortality ratios (SMRs), lower in the IARC cohort of exposed nuclear workers than in the non exposed group, should be considered as a hormetic effect, rather than a healthy worker effect (HWE) as claimed by the IARC group.
Prevalence and Predictors of Abnormal Cardiovascular Responses to Exercise Testing Among Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Curtis Jeffrey M. , Horton Edward S. , Bahnson Judy , Gregg Edward W. , Jakicic John M. , Regensteiner Judith G. , Ribisl Paul M. , Soberman Judith E. , Stewart Kerry J. , Espeland Mark A. ,   for the Look AHEAD Research Group
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

We examined maximal graded exercise test (GXT) results in 5,783 overweight/obese men and women, aged 45–76 years, with type 2 diabetes, who were entering the Look AHEAD (Action for Health in Diabetes) study, to determine the prevalence and correlates of exercise-induced cardiac abnormalities.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Participants underwent symptom-limited maximal GXTs. Questionnaires and physical examinations were used to determine demographic, anthropometric, metabolic, and health status predictors of abnormal GXT results, which were defined as an ST segment depression ≥1.0 mm, ventricular arrhythmia, angina pectoris, poor postexercise heart rate recovery (<22 bpm reduction 2 min after exercise), or maximal exercise capacity less than 5.0 METs. Systolic blood pressure response to exercise was examined as a continuous variable, without a threshold to define abnormality.

RESULTS

Exercise-induced abnormalities were present in 1,303 (22.5%) participants, of which 693 (12.0%) consisted of impaired exercise capacity. ST segment depression occurred in 440 (7.6%), abnormal heart rate recovery in 206 (5.0%), angina in 63 (1.1%), and arrhythmia in 41 (0.7%). Of potential predictors, only greater age was associated with increased prevalence of all abnormalities. Other predictors were associated with some, but not all, abnormalities. Systolic blood pressure response decreased with greater age, duration of diabetes, and history of cardiovascular disease.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a high rate of abnormal GXT results despite careful screening for cardiovascular disease symptoms. In this cohort of overweight and obese individuals with type 2 diabetes, greater age most consistently predicted abnormal GXT. Long-term follow-up of these participants will show whether these abnormalities are clinically significant.
Intergenerational Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors Involve Both Maternal and Paternal BMI
Authors: Labayen Idoia , Ruiz Jonatan R. , Ortega Francisco B. , Loit Helle-Mai , Harro Jaanus , Veidebaum Toomas , Sjöström Michael
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between parental BMI and offspring cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The study comprised 940 children (9.5 ± 0.4 years) and 873 adolescents (15.5 ± 0.5 years). Parental weight and height were reported by the mother and the father, and BMI was calculated. CVD risk factors included total (sum of five skinfolds) and central (waist circumference) body fat, blood pressure, cardiorespiratory fitness, insulin sensitivity, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and fibrinogen.

RESULTS

Maternal and paternal BMI were positively associated with total and central fatness in offspring (P < 0.001). BMIs of both parents were significantly related to fibrinogen levels (P < 0.02), but these associations disappeared when controlling for fatness. There was a positive relationship between maternal and paternal BMI and waist circumference in the offspring regardless of total adiposity and height (P < 0.001). Maternal BMI was negatively associated with offspring cardiorespiratory fitness independently of fatness (P < 0.02). These relationships persisted when overweight descendants were excluded from the analysis. There were no significant associations between parental BMI and the other CVD risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Both maternal and paternal BMI increase CVD risk factors of their offspring, characterized by total and central body fat, and higher maternal BMI was associated with poorer cardiorespiratory fitness. Our findings give further support to the concept that adiposity in parents transmits susceptibility to CVD risk to descendants, which is detectable even in the absence of overweight in offspring.
A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in KCNQ1 Is Associated With Susceptibility to Diabetic Nephropathy in Japanese Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ohshige Toshihiko , Tanaka Yasushi , Araki Shin-ichi , Babazono Tetsuya , Toyoda Masao , Umezono Tomoya , Watada Hirotaka , Suzuki Daisuke , Iwamoto Yasuhiko , Kawamori Ryuzo , Nakamura Yusuke , Maeda Shiro
Published: January 2010

OBJECTIVE

Genetic factors have been considered to contribute to the development and progression of diabetic nephropathy. The KCNQ1 gene (potassium voltage-gated channel, KQT-like subfamily, member 1) was originally identified as a strong susceptibility gene for type 2 diabetes in two Japanese genome-wide association studies. In this study, we examined the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within KCNQ1 with diabetic nephropathy in Japanese subjects with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We genotyped 33 SNPs in KCNQ1 using 754 type 2 diabetic patients with overt nephropathy and 558 control subjects (an initial study), and we further examined the association of a candidate SNP using three other independent Japanese populations (replications 1–3).

RESULTS

We found that five SNPs were nominally associated with diabetic nephropathy, and the association of rs2237897 was the strongest. We also found that the T allele frequencies of rs2237897 were consistently higher in the nephropathy groups than in the control groups for all study populations (initial study: 0.33 vs. 0.27; replication 1: 0.32 vs. 0.30; replication 2: 0.33 vs. 0.28; and replication 3: 0.32 vs. 0.28), although the individual associations did not reach statistically significant levels. Combined analysis by a meta-analysis revealed that the T allele of rs2237897 was significantly associated with susceptibility to diabetic nephropathy in Japanese subjects with type 2 diabetes (odds ratio 1.22 [95% CI 1.10–1.34], P = 3.1 × 10–4, corrected P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that KCNQ1 is a new candidate gene for conferring susceptibility to diabetic nephropathy.
Pseudocyesis in peri- and postmenopausal women
Authors: Dubravko Habek
Published: January 2010

Pseudocyesis or delusion of pregnancy is a rare psychopathological syndrome described in humans and higher mammals. We describe and discuss two cases of this rare syndrome in a 46-year perimenopausal and a 59-year old postmenopausal woman. Gynecologic, ultrasound examination, and biochemistry testing (β-HCG) confirm the diagnosis of nonexistent clinical and biochemical pregnancy. These examinations have the potential to confirm abdominal tumors, while psychiatric examinations generally reveal the psychic basis of the disease; which should be treated through team approach by both the psychiatrist and gynecologist. Additionally, special reference should be given to long-term psychiatric follow-up and management of the current mental stress and emotional problems by a combination of antipsychotics and psychotherapy, depending on each individual clinical picture.
Potential of Autoradiography to Detect Spatially Resolved Radiation Patterns in the Context of Trapped Charge Dating
Authors: Rufer Daniel , Preusser Frank
Published: January 2010

Recent developments in optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) dating allow the determination of signals in increasingly smaller sample amounts. This has led to microdosimetry having a larger impact on equivalent dose (DE) distributions and therefore, detection and assessment of spatial distribution of radionuclides has become more important. This study demonstrates the application of autoradiography using imaging plates to determine spatially resolved radiation inhomogeneities in different types of samples. Qualitative evaluations of radiation inhomogeneity are carried out on unconsolidated sediments as well as on hard rock samples. While indicating some limitations of applicability, the results demonstrate that the method is an efficient tool to detect and document spatial variations in a sample's radiation field. It therefore provides a possibility to rapidly screen samples to check whether microdosimetry might affect the DE data.

Furthermore, an approach to calibrate autoradiographic images for quantitative use is suggested. Using pressed powder pellets of reference materials, a series of calibration images were exposed, from which a functional relation between specific sample activity and greyscale value in the autoradiographic image has been deduced. Testing the calibration on a set of 16 geological samples, of which their radionuclide content is known, shows a good correlation between specific activities calculated from the nuclide content and specific activities deduced from the autoradiographic images. These findings illustrate the potential of autoradiography with imaging plates to detect spatial distributions of radionuclides and to tackle certain aspects of the problem of microdosimetry in modern trapped charge dating.
Motion planning and feedback control for a unicycle in a way point following task: The VFO approach
Authors: Michałek Maciej , Kozłowski Krzysztof
Published: January 2010

Motion planning and feedback control for a unicycle in a way point following task: The VFO approach

This paper is devoted to theway point followingmotion task of a unicycle where the motion planning and the closed-loop motion realization stage are considered. Theway point followingtask is determined by the user-defined sequence of way-points which have to be passed by the unicycle with the assumed finite precision. This sequence will take the vehicle from the initial state to the target state in finite time. The motion planning strategy proposed in the paper does not involve any interpolation of way-points leading to simplified task description and its subsequent realization. The motion planning as well as the motion realization stage are based on the Vector-Field-Orientation (VFO) approach applied here to a new task. The unique features of the resultant VFO control system, namely, predictable vehicle transients, fast error convergence, vehicledirecting effecttogether with very simple controller parametric synthesis, may prove to be useful in practically motivated motion tasks.
Time-optimal control of infinite order hyperbolic systems with time delays
Authors: Kowalewski Adam
Published: January 2010

Time-optimal control of infinite order hyperbolic systems with time delays

In this paper, the time-optimal control problem for infinite order hyperbolic systems in which time delays appear in the integral form both in state equations and in boundary conditions is considered. Optimal controls are characterized in terms of an adjoint system and shown to be unique and bang-bang. These results extend to certain cases of nonlinear control problems. The particular properties of optimal control are discussed.
A matrix inequality based design method for consensus problems in multi-agent systems
Authors: Zhai Guisheng , Okuno Shohei , Imae Joe , Kobayashi Tomoaki
Published: January 2010

A matrix inequality based design method for consensus problems in multi-agent systems

In this paper, we study a consensus problem in multi-agent systems, where the entire system is decentralized in the sense that each agent can only obtain information (states or outputs) from its neighbor agents. The existing design methods found in the literature are mostly based on a graph Laplacian of the graph which describes the interconnection structure among the agents, and such methods cannot deal with complicated control specification. For this purpose, we propose to reduce the consensus problem at hand to the solving of a strict matrix inequality with respect to a Lyapunov matrix and a controller gain matrix, and we propose two algorithms for solving the matrix inequality. It turns out that this method includes the existing Laplacian based method as a special case and can deal with various additional control requirements such as the convergence rate and actuator constraints.
Synthesis of finite state machines for CPLDs
Authors: Czerwiński Robert , Kania Dariusz
Published: January 2010

Synthesis of finite state machines for CPLDs

The paper presents a new two-step approach to FSM synthesis for PAL-based CPLDs that strives to find an optimum fit of an FSM to the structure of the CPLD. The first step, the original state assignment method, includes techniques of two-level minimization and aims at area minimization. The second step, PAL-oriented multi-level optimization, is a search for implicants that can be shared by several functions. It is based on the graph of outputs. Results of experiments prove that the presented approach is especially effective for PAL-based CPLD structures containing a low number of product terms.
An automatic segmentation method for scanned images of wheat root systems with dark discolourations
Authors: Gocławski Jarosław , Sekulska-Nalewajko Joanna , Gajewska Ewa , Wielanek Marzena
Published: January 2010

An automatic segmentation method for scanned images of wheat root systems with dark discolourations

The analysis of plant root system images plays an important role in the diagnosis of plant health state, the detection of possible diseases and growth distortions. This paper describes an initial stage of automatic analysis—the segmentation method for scanned images of Ni-treated wheat roots from hydroponic culture. The main roots of a wheat fibrous system are placed separately in the scanner view area on a high chroma background (blue or red). The first stage of the method includes the transformation of a scanned RGB image into the HCI (Hue-Chroma-Intensity) colour space and then local thresholding of the chroma component to extract a binary root image. Possible chromatic discolourations, different from background colour, are added to the roots from blue or red chroma subcomponent images after thresholding. At the second stage, dark discolourations are extracted by local fuzzy c-means clustering of an HCI intensity image within the binary root mask. Fuzzy clustering is applied in local windows around the series of sample points on roots medial axes (skeleton). The performance of the proposed method is compared with hand-labelled segmentation for a series of several root systems.
Progressive Resistance Training Improves Overall Physical Activity Levels in Patients With Early Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Farr Joshua N. , Going Scott B. , McKnight Patrick E. , Kasle Shelley , Cussler Ellen C. , Cornett Michelle
Published: January 2010

Background

Prescription of resistance training (RT) exercises is an essential aspect of management for knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, whether patients with knee OA who are randomly assigned to receive RT simply substitute RT for other modes of physical activity remains unclear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of a structured RT intervention on overall levels of moderate- and vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA) in patients with early-onset knee OA. The study compared patients with early-onset OA who participated in an RT program, those who participated in a self-management (SM) program, and those who participated in both RT and SM. Because participants randomly assigned to receive the RT intervention may simply switch activity modes, resulting in little net effect, we assessed total MVPA in addition to tracking changes in strength (force-generating capacity).

Design and Intervention

This study was a randomized controlled trial comparing the effectiveness of SM alone, RT alone, and combined RT+SM on MVPA in patients with early OA of the knee.

Setting

The study was conducted on a university campus, with patient recruitment from the local community.

Participants

The participants in this study were 171 patients (74% women, 26% men) with knee OA. They had a mean age of 55.1 (SD=7.1) years, a mean body mass index of 27.6 (SD=4.2) kg/m2, and radiographic status of grade II OA (and no higher) in at least one knee, as defined by the Kellgren and Lawrence classification. They wore an accelerometer while awake (X̄=14.2 [SD=2.2] hours) for 5 to 7 contiguous days (X̄=6.8 [SD=0.5] days) at baseline and at 3 and 9 months of intervention.

Results

The participants engaged in MVPA a mean of 26.2 (SD=19.3) minutes per day at baseline. Both groups significantly increased their MVPA from baseline to 3 months (RT group by 18% [effect size (d)=0.26]; SM group by 22% [effect size (d)=0.25]), but only the RT group sustained those changes at 9 months (RT group maintained a 10% increase [effect size (d)=0.15]; SM group maintained a 2% increase [effect size (d)=0.03]). A significant group × time interaction for MVPA indicated that the RT group maintained higher MVPA levels than the SM group.

Limitations

Lack of direct measures of energy expenditure and physical function was a limitation of the study.

Conclusions

Patients with early-onset OA of the knee can engage in an RT program without sacrificing their overall MVPA levels. These results support the value of RT for management of knee OA.
Effect of Simulated Microgravity on Sexual Development of Male Japanese Quail
Authors: Škrobánek Peter , Baranovská Magda , Šárniková Božena , Juráni Marian , Zeman Michal , Cigánková Viera
Published: January 2010

Hypodynamia can be used to simulate weightlessness in laboratory conditions. The objective of our study was to investigate the effects of chronic hypodynamia on the growth and development of the testes and cloacal gland, and plasma testosterone concentration in Japanese quail. The testis weight in males reared under hypodynamia was significantly lower compared to agematched control between 21 and 63 days of age (P < 0.05). The cloacal gland area of experimental birds calculated from its width and length was also smaller in comparison with control quail from 35 to 56 days of age (P < 0.05). The foam production was significantly lower in hypodynamia males at age 35, 42, 49 and 63 days (P < 0.05). The plasma testosterone concentration was significantly reduced in hypodynamia birds between 35 and 70 days of age (P < 0.05), with the exception of day 56. These results provide further evidence that although hypodynamia negatively affects the examined variables, the male Japanese quail is able to develop normally under conditions of simulated weightlessness.
In vitro Effect of α-tocopherol and Ascorbic Acid Supplementation on Immunological Indicators in Bovine Leukocytes following Transportation
Authors: Urban-Chmiel Renata , Wernicki Andrzej , Puchalski Andrzej , Dec Marta
Published: January 2010

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of two different antioxidants, α-tocopherol and ascorbic acid, on the chemotactic activity and susceptibility to Mannheimia haemolytica leukotoxin (Lkt) of white blood cells obtained from calves exposed to transport in vitro. Both antioxidants used were found to affect the chemotactic activity of white blood cells. Supplementation of α-tocopherol at a concentration of 0.2 mg/ml and 0.5 mg/ml induced significant (P ⪬ 0.05) increase of chemotactic activity in white blood cells compared to control. In case of ascorbic acid supplementation the highest chemotactic activity was observed at a concentration of 0.5 mg/ml. The results obtained in microtitration (MTT) assay also suggest that high concentrations of α-tocopherol (0.5 mg/ml) play a role in protecting bovine leukocytes against the cytotoxic effect of Lkt, the susceptibility of the leukocytes on M. haemolytica Lkt was lower in comparison to control about 6%. The antioxidants used in this study have been found to have a protective effect on cells participating in the immune response to M. haemolytica. This particularly applies to high concentrations of α-tocopherol. The clinical aspect of these results may lie in protection of leukocytes exposed to leukotoxin of M. haemolytica. It should be emphasized that the results provide only partial information on the effect of the antioxidants studied on cells participating in an organism’s defence mechanisms. For an evaluation that would enable proper prevention of bovine respiratory diseases, research should be continued and expanded to include analysis of cellular structures.
Effect of S-adenosylmethionine on Acetaminophen-induced Toxic Injury of Rat Hepatocytes in vitro
Authors: Lotková Halka , Kučera Otto , Roušar Tomáš , Endlicher René , Křiváková Pavla , Garnol Tomáš , Červinková Zuzana
Published: January 2010

Acetaminophen (AAP) overdose causes severe liver injury and is the leading cause of acute liver injury in humans. The mechanisms participating in its toxic effect are glutathione depletion, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is the principal biological methyl donor and is also a precursor of glutathione. In our previous studies we have documented a protective action of SAMe against various toxic injuries of rat hepatocytes in primary cultures. The aim of this study was to evaluate a possible protective effect of SAMe against AAP-induced toxic injury of primary rat hepatocytes. Hepatocytes were exposed to AAP (2.5 mM) or AAP together with SAMe at the final concentrations of 5, 25 or 50 mg/l for 24 h. Incubation of hepatocytes with AAP caused a significant increase of the leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (p < 0.001) and decline of the activity of cellular dehydrogenases (WST- 1) (p < 0.001). Co-incubation of hepatocytes with SAMe at any dose did not improve these markers of cellular integrity. The functional indicators improved in hepatocytes co-cultured with SAMe - urea production was significantly increased when using the highest dose of SAMe (p < 0.05); albumin synthesis was higher in all cultured hepatocytes exposed to SAMe (p < 0.05). SAMe did not influence AAP-induced decrease of cellular content of glutathione. Mitochondrial respiration of harvested digitonin-permeabilized hepatocytes was measured; Complex II was more sensitive to toxic action of AAP, respiration was decreased by 20%. This decrease was completely abolished by SAMe.
Determination of the Volatile Fatty Acid Content in the Rumen Liquid: Comparison of Gas Chromatography and Capillary Isotachophoresis
Authors: Filípek Jaroslav , Dvořák Rudolf
Published: January 2010

Two analytical procedures for determining volatile fatty acids in the rumen liquid were compared: capillary isotachophoresis (ITP) and gas chromatography. Acetic acid, propionic acid, butyric and valeric acids were determined. No significant differences (n = 53, P ≥ 0.05) have been identified in the amounts of acetic and propionic acids and the results are highly consistent. For butyric acid, the method of gas chromatography yielded higher results with a constant error of approximately 0.5 mmol/l in the whole range of concentration. In terms of diagnostics, however, this size of error is non-significant. In the case of valeric acid a proportional error was found. Gas chromatography yielded higher values, the difference being greater for the low values while for the higher values the results are almost identical. However, valeric acid is a minor acid and its determination is of secondary significance to rumen fermentation assessment. The gas chromatography method is able to clearly differentiate between n and iso forms in the case of butyric and valeric acids. It can be stated that the two analytical methods yield comparable results and both can be used for the needs of practical diagnostics.
In vivo Evaluation of Marginal Microgaps of Sheep Incisors filled with Two Composite Materials
Authors: Figurová Mária , Ledecký Valent , Štvrtina Svetoslav
Published: January 2010

The aim of the study was to evaluate the marginal microgaps of two light-induced polymerization composite materials: Filtek P60 (3M ESPE) and Opticor New (Spofa Dental) in ovine teeth in vivo. The restorative materials were placed to type A-cavity to buccal surfaces of permanent teeth (Triadan system 301, 302, 303, 401, 402, 403). The variables of composite materials were evaluated in 3 groups of animals, 2 animals in each, at different time intervals (1, 6 and 9 months after beginning of the experiment). In various time intervals, 12 teeth per group were extracted under general injection anaesthesia, 6 teeth from each animal). Altogether 36 teeth were extracted throughout the experiment. During the experiment we observed neither cracks nor marginal discoloration in both Filtek P60 and Opticor New restorations. Retention of all restorations was 100%. Significant (P = 0.029 ANOVA) differences were observed in the dentin with Filtek P60 packable restorations which exhibited smaller marginal microgaps (OPTICOR NEW and dentin 11.09 mm, FILTEK P60 and dentin 5.64 μm). The mean size of microgaps between dentin and the packable composite material Filtek P60 was significantly lower (P = 0.029 ANOVA) in comparison with the microhybrid Opticor New composite restorations. These materials are suitable as permanent restoration of dental cervical caries in sheep and other herbivores, such as those kept in zoological gardens and companion animals.
Ultrasonographic Diagnosis of Unilateral Scrotal Hernia, Varicocele and Sperm Granuloma in a Ram
Authors: Lacasta Delia , Ferrer Luís M. , Ramos Juan J. , Ochoa Pablo Gómez
Published: January 2010

A four-year-old ram was presented with a conspicuous hemilateral scrotal enlargement that was noticed four weeks before. Based on the history, clinical signs, palpation, trans-scrotal ultrasonography and semen collection, a left scrotal hernia was diagnosed. Ultrasonographic examination showed a presumably omental fat scrotal hernia with an atrophic left testis and varicocele, and the presence of two sperm cysts could be observed in the right epididymal tail. The testis appeared as a homogeneous and moderately echogenic structure and it was possible to distinguish atrophy of the left testis that was covered by a hyperechoic area, presumably omental fat, within the hernial sac. In addition, on ultrasound examination non-echogenic tortuous areas were present and diagnosed as varicocele. Post mortem examination confirmed gross lesions identified ultrasonographically. The libido of the ram was normal but the semen showed total azoospermia. Ultrasound imaging can be used as a diagnostic technique to confirm the diagnosis of scrotal hernia, varicocele, sperm cyst and testis mineralization.
Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry in a Maternity Hospital
Authors: Judd Fiona , Stafford Lesley , Handrinos Dennis , Laios Lia , Breadon Carolyn , Cornthwaite Leesa , Gill Ailish , Thomson-Salo Frances , Mercuri Kristine , Nguyen Tram , Bryant Christina
Published: January 2010

Objective: The aim of the study was to describe referral patterns of maternity inpatients to the consultation-liaison psychiatry (CLP) service at a large women's hospital in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia.

Method: Clinicians recorded socio-demographic data, referring unit, consultee's reason for referral, psychiatric diagnosis made, and treatment provided for all maternity inpatients referred from 2004 to 2008.

Results: Main reasons for referral were detection of depression, past psychiatric history, and concern regarding a woman's coping. Most common diagnoses were depression, substance use disorders and anxiety disorders. Many women referred for assessment while inpatients were initially seen in the antenatal period.

Conclusions: Pregnant women referred to a CLP service present with a range of mental health problems, most often depression, anxiety and substance use disorders. Many of these problems are evident in and require intervention during the antenatal period as well as at the time of confinement. CLP services to maternity hospitals should be provided in the antenatal as well as the inpatient setting.