bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Structure of a Hydrido(hydrogermylene)tungsten Complex and Its Reactions with Nitriles and Ketones
Authors: Hashimoto Hisako , Tsubota Takeshi , Fukuda Tetsuya , Tobita Hiromi
Published: November 2009

A neutral germylene tungsten complex with W–H and Ge–H bonds was prepared by the reaction of an acetonitrile(methyl)tungsten complex with trihydrogermane at room temperature. X-ray crystal structure analysis and IR study revealed that there is a weak but significant interligand interaction between the germylene and hydrido ligands. The germylene complex reacted with nitriles and ketones to give hydrogermylation products in high yields.
Electron Transfer from Hydrophobic Porphyrin to Hydrophilic Viologen via the Photoexcited Singlet State in Water
Authors: Asakura Noriyuki , Goto Ryohei , Kamachi Toshiaki , Okura Ichiro
Published: November 2009

Viologen-linked porphyrins are a typical compound for photoinduced electron-transfer models via the photoexcited singlet state. The singlet-state electron transfer, however, does not occur in water, because solvent cage formation, which is motion of solvent molecules during electron transfer, is slow in the case of water. In order to boost the solvent cage formation of water and achieve the electron transfer via the singlet state in water, viologen-linked hydrophobic porphyrin was prepared.
An Approach to 12-V Lead-free Batteries: High Temperature 3600-cycle Examinations on a 2.5-V LTO/LAMO Battery
Authors: Ohzuku Tsutomu , Imazaki Mitsuyasu , Tsukamoto Naoya , Ariyoshi Kingo
Published: November 2009

A 2.5-V battery consisting of lithium titanium oxide (LTO) and lithium aluminum manganese oxide (LAMO) having spinel-framework structures was examined from 1 to 3 V at 55 °C. After several trials on capacity retention at high temperatures, we have succeeded to show that the rechargeable capacity is retained at greater than 80% even after 3600 cycles at 55 °C by applying cellulose nonwoven cloth as a separator, satisfying requirement for 12-V automobile applications.
Platinum(II)-catalyzed Acetal–Ene Reaction: Easy Access to Homoallylic Ethers
Authors: Miura Katsukiyo , Izumi Hiroyuki , Kinoshita Hidenori , Ichikawa Junji , Hosomi Akira
Published: November 2009

Catalytic use of PtCl2 and AgX (X=OTf and SbF6) has been found to effectively promote the intermolecular ene reaction of acetals and the tandem acetalization–ene reaction of aldehydes under solvent-free conditions.
The absorption of research knowledge by public civil servants
Authors: Ouimet Mathieu , Landry Réjean , Ziam Saliha , Bédard Pierre-Olivier
Published: November 2009

The aim of this study is to revisit the major theoretical perspectives on research utilisation by public civil servants, to propose a new conceptual framework of the absorption of research knowledge by these civil servants and to provide a first empirical testing of the proposed conceptual framework. Some of the empirical findings are particularly interesting as they seem to converge with the well-known ‘bounded’ aspect of rational action. For example, they show a significant association between civil servants’ educational level, on the one hand, and, on the other, their propensity to communicate with academic researchers and to acquire research evidence.
The contribution of evidence-based policy to the output-oriented legitimacy of the state
Authors: Widmer Thomas
Published: November 2009

Promoters of evidence-based policy making assume that such practices contribute to an improvement in public policies and therefore to social betterment and state legitimacy. However, scholars in democracy research rarely include practices of evidence-based policy making in their analyses of the legitimacy of the state. This article outlines the linkages between evidence-based policy making and the output-oriented legitimacy of the state, and assesses the potential of these linkages. The analysis shows that only a selection of these linkages have the potential to contribute to state legitimacy whereas others are very restricted in this respect.
Multisystemic therapy with conductdisordered young people: stability of treatment outcomes two years after intake
Authors: Löfholm Cecilia Andrée , Olsson Tina , Sundell Knut , Hansson Kjell
Published: November 2009

The transfer of successful interventions between different contexts is of increasing interest to policy makers, practitioners and researchers. This study considers the findings of a Swedish trial of multisystemic therapy (MST) in relation to the findings of other such trials in the US and Norway. The trial assessed treatment outcomes two years after referral to MST or treatment as usual (TAU) for 156 young people meeting the diagnostic criteria for conduct disorder. A mixed factorial design was used. With an intent-to-treat approach, the results showed a general decrease in psychiatric problems and antisocial behaviours among participants across treatments. There were no significant differences between the two groups, and the lack of treatment effect did not appear to be caused by site differences or variations in programme maturity.
Role of chemerin/CMKLR1 signaling in adipogenesis and osteoblastogenesis of bone marrow stem cells
Authors: Muruganandan Shanmugam , Roman Alexandra A , Sinal Christopher J
Published: November 2009

Maintenance of healthy bone mass requires a well-coordinated balance between the ongoing processes of bone formation and bone resorption. Bone-forming osteoblasts derive from resident adult stem cells within bone marrow called bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). These BMSCs are multipotent and also can give rise to adipocytes, which do not contribute directly to bone formation but may influence bone remodeling through the release of bioactive signaling molecules. Chemerin is a novel adipocyte-derived signaling molecule that promotes adipocyte differentiation. In this study we examined the role of chemerin and the cognate receptors CMKLR1 and CCRL2 as determinants of osteoblast and adipocyte differentiation of the preosteoblast 7F2 cell line and of primary BMSCs. Expression and secretion of chemerin increased dramatically with adipocyte differentiation of these cells. Functionally, knockdown of chemerin or CMKLR1 expression using RNA interference abrogated adipocyte differentiation, clonal expansion, and basal proliferation of BMSCs. In contrast, knockdown of either gene was associated with increased osteoblast marker gene expression and mineralization in response to osteoblastogenic stimuli. Forced expression of the adipogenic transcription factor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) induced chemerin expression and partially rescued the loss of adipogenesis associated with chemerin or CMKLR1 knockdown in BMSCs. Taken together, these data support a novel role for chemerin/CMKLR1 signaling in regulating adipogenesis and osteoblastogenesis of bone marrow–derived precursor cells. These data reveal a potential role for this signaling pathway as a modulator of bone mass. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Relationship between genotype and skeletal phenotype in children and adolescents with osteogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Rauch Frank , Lalic Liljana , Roughley Peter , Glorieux Francis H
Published: November 2009

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a heritable bone fragility disorder that in the majority of cases is caused by mutations in COL1A1 or COL1A2, the genes that encode the two collagen type I α chains, α1(I) and α2(I). In this study, we examined the relationship between collagen type I mutations and bone densitometric and histomorphometric findings in pediatric OI patients who had not received bisphosphonate treatment. Lumbar spine areal bone mineral density (LS aBMD) was measured in 192 patients (99 girls, 93 boys; age range 3 weeks to 16.9 years) who had either COL1A1 mutations leading to haploinsufficiency (n = 52) or mutations that lead to the substitution of glycine by another amino acid in the triple-helical domain of either the α1(I) (n = 58) or the α2(I) chain (n = 82). Compared with patients with helical mutations, patients with COL1A1 haploinsufficiency on average were taller and heavier and had higher LS aBMD. After adjustment for age, sex, and height Z-scores, the mean LS aBMD Z-scores were −4.0 for the haploinsufficiency group and −4.7 for both helical mutation groups. In the whole patient population, the average LS aBMD Z-score was higher by 0.6 (95% confidence interval 0.2–1.0) in girls than in boys. Iliac bone histomorphometry (in a subgroup of 96 patients) showed that outer bone size (core width) and trabecular bone volume were similar between genotypic groups, but cortical width was 49% higher in the haploinsufficiency group compared with patients with helical mutations in α2(I). Bone turnover parameters were lower in the haploinsufficiency group than in patients with helical mutations. In the group of patients with helical mutations, neither the type of α chain affected, nor the type of amino acid substituting for glycine, nor the position of the mutation in the α chain had a detectable relationship with LS aBMD or histomorphometric results. Thus patients with haploinsufficiency mutations had a milder skeletal phenotype than patients with mutations affecting glycine residues, but there was no clear genotype-phenotype correlation among patients with helical glycine mutations. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Small-Strain Shear Modulus and Strength Increase of Cement-Treated Clay
Authors: Flores R. D. Verástegui , Di Emidio G. , Van Impe W. F.
Published: November 2009

A simple nondestructive technique was used as an alternative method to monitor the hardening of cement-treated clay as a function of time. The principle of this monitoring technique is based on the use of bender elements to measure the small-strain shear modulus (G0) at various time intervals. The strength increase was monitored by conventional unconfined compression testing. Experimental work was carried out on Kaolin clay treated with Portland cement and blast furnace slag cement at different dosages. The results showed that G0, as well as strength, of cement-treated samples increases logarithmically with time. However, blast furnace slag cement produces a slower hardening rate early after mixing. It was found that for each binder type, the G0 increase and the strength increase, when normalized, follow a common trend. Such a hardening function may be used as the basis of a strength prediction rule. The functions obtained are in good agreement with data on other cement-treated inorganic clays published in the literature.
A Robust Installation for Brick-Mold Windows and Doors Using Self-Adhered Flashing
Authors: Conlon Jessica S. , O’Rourke Barbara K. , Katsaros James D. , Weston Theresa A.
Published: November 2009

Current standardized practices for window and door installation methodologies are typically based on fenestration products that feature integral flanges that form a continuous surface to mount and integrate the fenestration product to the water resistive barrier (WRB)/drainage plane of the wall. While these types of units form the majority of fenestration products available, there are several “non-integral” flange type systems that are also utilized in the construction industry. These include “brick-mold” windows and doors, field-applied flange windows, and non-flanged “box” windows. Due to the discontinuity between the mounting system and the window frame, these types of fenestration systems pose special challenges to achieve a robust, continuous, and water-resistant integration between the fenestration product and the wall, which is not adequately addressed by ASTM E2112, “Standard Practice for Installation of Exterior Windows, Doors, and Skylights” or other standardized methods. The paper describes an installation method for windows and doors with factory-applied brick-mold exterior casings and presents the performance characteristics in laboratory testing of units installed using the method.
Cardiac dysfunction is reversed upon successful treatment of Cushing's syndrome
Authors: Pereira Alberto M , Delgado Victoria , Romijn Johannes A , Smit Johannes W A , Bax Jeroen J , Feelders Richard A
Published: November 2009

Objective

In patients with active Cushing's syndrome (CS), cardiac structural and functional changes have been described in a limited number of patients. It is unknown whether these changes reverse after successful treatment. We therefore evaluated the changes in cardiac structure and dysfunction after successful treatment of CS, using more sensitive echocardiographic parameters (based on two-dimensional strain imaging) to detect subtle changes in cardiac structure and function.

Methods

In a prospective study design, we studied 15 consecutive CS patients and 30 controls (matched for age, sex, body surface area, hypertension, and left ventricular (LV) systolic function). Multidirectional LV strain was evaluated by two-dimensional speckle tracking strain imaging. Systolic (radial thickening, and circumferential and longitudinal shortening) and diastolic (longitudinal strain rate at the isovolumetric relaxation time (SRIVRT)) parameters were measured.

Results

At baseline, CS patients had similar LV diameters but had significantly more LV hypertrophy and impaired LV diastolic function, compared to controls. In addition, CS patients showed impaired LV shortening in the circumferential (−16.5±3.5 vs −19.7±3.4%, P=0.013) and longitudinal (−15.9±1.9 vs −20.1±2.3%, P<0.001) directions and decreased SRIVRT (0.3±0.15 vs 0.4±0.2/ s, P=0.012) compared to controls. After normalization of corticosteroid excess, LV structural abnormalities reversed, LV circumferential and longitudinal shortening occurred, and SRIVRT normalized.

Conclusion

CS induces not only LV hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction but also subclinical LV systolic dysfunction, which reverses upon normalization of corticosteroid excess.
Coalescent Simulation of Intracodon Recombination
Authors: Arenas Miguel , Posada David
Published: November 2009

The coalescent with recombination is a very useful tool in molecular population genetics. Under this framework, genealogies often represent the evolution of the substitution unit, and because of this, the few coalescent algorithms implemented for the simulation of coding sequences force recombination to occur only between codons. However, it is clear that recombination is expected to occur most often within codons. Here we have developed an algorithm that can evolve coding sequences under an ancestral recombination graph that represents the genealogies at each nucleotide site, thereby allowing for intracodon recombination. The algorithm is a modification of Hudson's coalescent in which, in addition to keeping track of events occurring in the ancestral material that reaches the sample, we need to keep track of events occurring in ancestral material that does not reach the sample but that is produced by intracodon recombination. We are able to show that at typical substitution rates the number of nonsynonymous changes induced by intracodon recombination is small and that intracodon recombination does not generally result in inflated estimates of the overall nonsynonymous/synonymous substitution ratio (ω). On the other hand, recombination can bias the estimation of ω at particular codons, resulting in apparent rate variation among sites and in the spurious identification of positively selected sites. Importantly, in this case, allowing for variable synonymous rates across sites greatly reduces the false-positive rate and recovers statistical power. Finally, coalescent simulations with intracodon recombination could be used to better represent the evolution of nuclear coding genes or fast-evolving pathogens such as HIV-1.We have implemented this algorithm in a computer program called NetRecodon, freely available at http://darwin.uvigo.es.
Ploidy and the Evolution of Endosperm of Flowering Plants
Authors: Cailleau Aurélie , Cheptou Pierre-Olivier , Lenormand Thomas
Published: November 2009

In angiosperms, spermatozoa go by pair in each pollen grain and fertilize, in addition to the egg cell, one of its sister cells, called the central cell. This “double fertilization” leads to the embryo on the one hand and to its nutritive tissue, the endosperm, on the other hand. In addition, in most flowering plants, the endosperm is triploid because of a doubled maternal genetic contribution in the central cell. Most of the hypotheses trying to explain these eccentricities rest on the assumption of a male/female conflict over seed resource allocation. We investigate an alternative hypothesis on the basis of the masking of deleterious alleles. Using analytical methods, we show that a doubled maternal contribution and double fertilization tend to be favored in a wide range of conditions when deleterious mutations alter the function of the endosperm. Furthermore, we show that these conditions vary depending on whether these traits are under male or female control, which allows us to describe a new type of male/female conflict.
Transition to Adult Care for Youths With Diabetes Mellitus: Findings From a Universal Health Care System
Authors: Nakhla Meranda , Daneman Denis , To Teresa , Paradis Gilles , Guttmann Astrid
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVES: The goals were (1) to describe rates of diabetes mellitus (DM)-related hospitalizations and retinopathy screening before and after transition to adult care and (2) to test whether different methods of transfer of care were associated with improved outcomes.

METHODS: In a retrospective cohort study, we included 1507 young adults with DM of ≥5-year duration and tracked these patients until 20 years of age.

RESULTS: DM-related hospitalization rates increased from 7.6 to 9.5 cases per 100 patient-years in the 2 years after transition to adult care (P = .03). Previous DM-related hospitalizations, lower income, female gender, and living in areas with low physician supply were associated with higher admission rates. With controlling for all other factors, individuals who were transferred to a new allied health care team with no change in physician were 77% less likely (relative risk: 0.23 [95% confidence interval: 0.05–0.79]) to be hospitalized after the transition than were those transferred to a new physician with either a new or no allied health care team. The rates of eye examinations were stable across the transition to adult care (72% vs 70%; P = .06). Female patients, patients with higher income, and patients with previous eye care were more likely to have an eye care visit after transfer.

CONCLUSIONS: During the transition to adult health care, there is increased risk of DM-related hospitalizations, although this may be attenuated in youths for whom there is physician continuity. Eye care visits were not related to transition; however, rates were below evidence-based guideline recommendations.
Prevalence of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Female Adolescents Aged 14 to 19 in the United States
Authors: Forhan Sara E. , Gottlieb Sami L. , Sternberg Maya R. , Xu Fujie , Datta S. Deblina , McQuillan Geraldine M. , Berman Stuart M. , Markowitz Lauri E.
Published: November 2009

OBJECTIVE: Most young women initiate sexual activity during adolescence; risk for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) accompanies this initiation. In this study we estimated the prevalence of the most common STIs among a representative sample of female adolescents in the United States.

METHODS: Data were analyzed from 838 females who were aged 14 to 19 and participating in the nationally representative National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003–2004. After interview and examination, survey participants provided biological specimens for laboratory testing. The main outcome was weighted prevalence of at least 1 of 5 STIs: Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, herpes simplex virus type 2, and human papillomavirus (HPV) (any of 23 high-risk types or type 6 or 11).

RESULTS: Prevalence of any of the 5 STIs was 24.1% among all and 37.7% among sexually experienced female adolescents. HPV (23 high-risk types or type 6 or 11) was the most common STI among all female adolescents (prevalence: 18.3%), followed by C trachomatis infection (prevalence: 3.9%). Prevalence of any of the STIs was 25.6% among those whose age was the same or 1 year greater than their age at sexual initiation and 19.7% among those who reported only 1 lifetime sex partner.

CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of STIs among female adolescents is substantial, and STIs begin to be acquired soon after sexual initiation and with few sex partners. These findings support early and comprehensive sex education, routine HPV vaccination at the age of 11 to 12 years, and C trachomatis screening of sexually active female adolescents.
Review of The Sense of Religious Wonder by Bernard Verkamp
Authors: Beesley Michael
Published: November 2009

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Soul Retrieval via the Internet—Bringing Keti Back from the Land of the Dead
Authors: Berman Michael
Published: November 2009

Soul loss is the term used to describe the way parts of the psyche become detached when we are faced with traumatic situations. In psychological terms, it is known as dissociation and it works as a defence mechanism, a means of displacing unpleasant feelings, impulses or thoughts into the unconscious. In shamanic terms, these split-off parts can be found in non-ordinary reality and are only accessible to those familiar with its topography. Soul retrieval entails the shaman journeying to find the missing parts and then returning them to the client seeking help. This paper consists of an account of a soul retrieval that was carried out over the internet by the shamanic practitioner, Jonathan Horwitz, over a period of two weeks between December 2006 and January 2007, to bring my partner Keti back from the Land of the Dead after she had an aneurism, was in a coma, and after a priest had been called to deliver the last rites.
Spirituality—the emergence of a working definition for use within healthcare practice
Authors: Mayers Chris , Johnston Diane
Published: November 2009

Considerations of a person’s spirituality and/or spiritual needs are necessary in order to provide holistic and person-centred intervention within healthcare. However, the term “spirituality” is difficult to define clearly, so healthcare professionals are often unsure as to what exactly spiritual needs are, and also what their role is in addressing these. An in-depth literature review was therefore carried out in order to evaluate the various definitions: firstly, to evaluate how health professionals define spirituality, and, secondly, to explore the relationship between spirituality and health. The review revealed that spirituality is a highly subjective concept, with personal meanings and unique realities for individuals. Some people believe it involves recognition of a deity or a personal relationship with God, while others argue it can be defined simply as an expression of our truest selves or inner beings. Many prefer to use religious language in describing spiritual needs, thus supporting the inclusion of reference to the sacred or supernatural in any proposed definition of spirituality. Exploration of the concept of spirituality also uncovered its relationship to disability, illness, recovery, and health/well being. A working definition has emerged from analysis of the literature which is proving to be of use to healthcare professionals within their practice.
Implicit Sacraments in Atonement: The Movie
Authors: Roberts Vaughn S.
Published: November 2009

The movie version of Ian McEwan’s novel Atonement, directed by Joe Wright, raises interesting questions about implicit religion in films. This paper explores how the film of Atonement develops and introduces Christian themes into the storyline, and the way in which this might reflect more widely upon the place of Christianity in a secular world.
The Many Faces of Spirituality
Authors: Kraus Rachel
Published: November 2009

While the public’s interest in spirituality and the number of people claiming they are spiritual is growing, scholars debate what constitutes spirituality. Much is written about spirituality and its many dimensions corresponding to a variety of human experiences, such as the body, relationships, sense of self, and creativity. However, discussions surrounding spirituality and its different aspects are separated in the literature. The purpose of this paper is to combine these disjointed discussions into a conceptual framework of spirituality, which consists of five dimensions of spirituality related to various areas of human existence. Belly dance, as a spiritual activity, is used to illustrate each dimension. This conceptual framework will ideally sensitize scholars to possible spiritual dimensions relevant to the cases they examine and/or challenge them to consider new paths that may not appear to be spiritual on the surface. Such examinations will help create a more holistic understanding of spirituality.
Spirituality Meets Civic Engagement
Authors: Markham Ian
Published: November 2009

This paper starts with David Hay’s data about the vast increase over the last fifteen years in people in the UK having religious experiences. This data confirms the underlying religious dispositions of the British, although there is clearly a significant decline of participation in religious institutions. However, as many have noted, religious organizations are amongst the strongest in civic society (more people are in church than are involved in political parties). So we need to tap into the spiritual motivation to encourage a range of participation in civic society, from Boy Scouts to Rotary. The American sociologist Nancy Ammerman has shown that the more a person is involved in one organization the more they end up being involved in lots of organizations. Therefore spirituality is an important basis for civic engagement.
Globalization, Syncretism, and Identity
Authors: Segady Thomas W.
Published: November 2009

Paramahansa Yogananda founded Self Realization Fellowship in 1920 in Boston, which continued the work of Yogoda Satsanga in India. From its beginnings, it has grown to become an international organization with a rapidlyincreasing membership based in 178 countries. The explanations for this growth include, at the macro level: strong centralized administrative organization; consistency of message and mission; fostering an attitude of tolerance among other groups; and extraordinary success in solving the problem that Max Weber termed the “routinization of charisma.” Explanations at the micro level include: creation of a common identity among members; facilitating close and direct communication with members despite growth in numbers; and introducing members to an expanding base of knowledge. Through an integration of religions, this perspective allows for the implicit incorporation of beliefs that previously were not considered as religious, on the part of individuals.
Batterer Intervention Programs: A Report From the Field
Authors: Price Bethany J. , Rosenbaum Alan
Published: November 2009

Over the past 25 years, batterer intervention has become the most probable disposition following a plea or conviction on domestic battery charges and, consequently, batterer intervention programs (BIPs) have proliferated. Despite their popularity, and recent attempts by states to regulate practice, little is known about the actual programs operating in the field. The aim of this study was to examine the philosophy, structure, leadership, curricula, and support systems of BIPs. Respondents from 276 batterer intervention programs in 45 states described their programs via an anonymous, Web-based survey. The results provide some insight regarding the workings of actual BIPs and also point out problems such as the dearth of programs in languages other than English and the failure to translate recommendations for prescriptive approaches into practice.
Feelings of Safety Inside Prison Among Male Inmates With Different Victimization Experiences
Authors: Wolff Nancy , Shi Jing
Published: November 2009

Correctional facilities have a responsibility to take “reasonable measures” to preserve and protect inmate safety. The extent to which people inside prison feel safe from victimization is explored using a sample of approximately 7,000 adult male inmates housed in 13 prisons. The majority of male inmates reported no victimization in the past 6 months and that they felt safe, especially from sexual abuse and assault. Levels of feeling safe diminished for inmates who experienced victimization. Inmate perceptions of safety varied between facilities. Variation in perceptions of safety among harmful situations and between facilities provides useful information about inmate safety and ways to improve it (n = 104).
New approach for data evaluation of industrial wastewater treatment plant: methodology and case study for a coke and steel-processing plant
Authors: Drakides Christian , Lay-Son Meiling
Published: November 2009

Environmental monitoring of biological wastewater treatment plants (BWWTP) treating industrial effluents produces large amount of data. Frequent sampling is done in the influent and effluent but also in intermediate points. Samples are analyzed for classical and specific contaminants and physical-chemical parameters are monitored. In this paper data from a BWWTP treating the effluents of a coke and steel-processing factory are analyzed. Due to a complex situation, this BWWTP gave poor performances that did not match environmental regulations, meanwhile upgrading proved to be uneasy. Data analysis using principal component analyses (PCA) or kinetic modeling with a Haldane model was unsuccessful in handling these data, which was attributed to undetermined toxic effects. A new methodology is reported, that allowed to identify a kinetics for thiocyanate degradation and a relation between pH and toxic effects. This analysis of the plant data allowed to make hypothesis on the process control parameters and to recommend management modifications, allowing a further increase of the performances.
A traditional first flush assessment of E. coli in urban stormwater runoff
Authors: McCarthy D. T.
Published: November 2009

The behaviour of microorganisms in urban stormwater should be thoroughly investigated and understood to (a) design treatment technologies that can reduce the human health risks of utilising stormwater and (b) develop models which can accurately predict the levels of microorganisms in urban stormwater to aid in health risk assessments. A crucial part of understanding the behaviour of pollutants in urban stormwater is to determine whether the pollutant experiences higher levels in certain portions of the event (e.g. does the pollutant experience a first flush?). The aim of this paper is twofold: (a) determine if the first flush phenomenon exists for a commonly used microbial indicator, Escherichia coli, and (b) determine whether the presence of a first flush is dependent on antecedent climatic and/or hydrologic characteristics. E. coli data collected from the wet weather flows of four urban catchments in Melbourne was used in the paper. Cumulative mass versus volume curves were used in conjunction with standard statistical inferences to determine that the first flush phenomenon was not consistently present, and that the presence and magnitude of a first flush varied considerably between each site. Regression analyses were used to determine that this variation was probably not caused by the same governing processes for all four sites, with different explanatory variables significantly explaining the first flush at each site.
Assessment of the propensity of biofilm growth on newfloat carrier media through process and biological experiments
Authors: Podedworna J. , Żubrowska-Sudoł M. , Grabińska-Łoniewska A.
Published: November 2009

This paper presents the results of research on biomass growth on Newfloat carrier elements and the implications of this growth on the wastewater treatment process. Supervision of the experiment comprised of the analysis of treatment efficiency (dynamic experiments), the estimation of the content of nitrifying bacteria in the biofilm (batch tests) and biological investigations of the biofilm structure and composition. It has been demonstrated that the biofilm growing on the carrier elements was rich in nitrifying bacteria and that this in turn guaranteed the highly efficient oxidation of ammoniacal nitrogen. After the full growth of biofilm had been established, average removal efficiencies were as follows: organic C removal–88.8% (effluent COD below 60 mg O2 l−1), nitrification–97.9% (effluent ammoniacal N below 1 mg N-NH4+ l−1), denitrification (after the COD loading rate increased to over 0.53 kg COD m−3 d−1)–95.7% (total N in the effluent below 8 mg N l−1).
The Box-Benkhen experimental design for the optimization of the electrocatalytic treatment of wastewaters with high concentrations of phenol and organic matter
Authors: GilPavas Edison , Betancourt Alejandra , Ángulo Mónica , Dobrosz-Gómez Izabela , Gómez-García Miguel Ángel
Published: November 2009

In this work, the Box-Benkhen experimental Design (BBD) was applied for the optimization of the parameters of the electrocatalytic degradation of wastewaters resulting from a phenolic resins industry placed in the suburbs of Medellin (Colombia). The direct and the oxidant assisted electro-oxidation experiments were carried out in a laboratory scale batch cell reactor, with monopolar configuration, and electrodes made of graphite (anode) and titanium (cathode). A multifactorial experimental design was proposed, including the following experimental variables: initial phenol concentration, conductivity, and pH. The direct electro-oxidation process allowed to reach ca. 88% of phenol degradation, 38% of mineralization (TOC), 52% of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) degradation, and an increase in water biodegradability of 13%. The synergetic effect of the electro-oxidation process and the respective oxidant agent (Fenton reactant, potassium permanganate, or sodium persulfate) let to a significant increase in the rate of the degradation process. At the optimized variables values, it was possible to reach ca. 99% of phenol degradation, 80% of TOC and 88% of COD degradation. A kinetic study was accomplished, which included the identification of the intermediate compounds generated during the oxidation process.
Acrylic acid removal from synthetic wastewater and industrial wastewater using Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae isolated from a wastewater treatment system manufactured with polyacrylonitrile fiber
Authors: Wang C. C. , Lee C. M. , Wu A. S.
Published: November 2009

Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae were isolated from a wastewater treatment system manufactured with polyacrylonitrile fiber. The investigation goal is to elucidate the effectiveness of Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae in treating acrylic acid from synthetic wastewater and industrial wastewater. The results reveal that Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae could utilize acrylic acid from synthetic wastewater for growth, when the initial acrylic acid concentration was below 1,009.1 mg/l and 1,383.4 mg/l, respectively. When the acrylic acid concentration was below 606.8 mg/l, the acrylic acid removal ability reached 96.7% and 100%, respectively. Both strains could tolerate acrylamide toxicity, but only Ralstonia solanacearum could tolerate acrylonitrile toxicity. Ralstonia solanacearum and Acidovorax avenae could utilize acrylic acid from industrial wastewater for growth, when the initial acrylic acid concentration was below 1,741.1 mg/l and 1,431.2 mg/l, respectively. When the acrylic acid concentration was below 690.8 mg/l, the acrylic acid removal efficiency reached 83.5% and 62.2%, respectively. Whether the acrylic acid existed in synthetic wastewater or in industrial wastewater, the removal efficiency of acrylic acid by Ralstonia solanacearum exceeded that by Acidovorax avena.
Continuous village sewage treatment by vermifiltration and activated sludge process
Authors: Li Yin-Sheng , Xiao Yi-Qun , Qiu Jiang-Ping , Dai Yi-Qi , Robin Paul
Published: November 2009

Rural sewage treatment is now paid more and more attention in China. Vermifiltration technology could be one of the practical options under the review of previous studies. It showed good removal rates of contaminants on small to pilot scales for short-term tests. However, the impacts of season, temperature or other unknown factors are usually not taken into account. In this study, a larger vermifilter was designed to treat the sewage on village scale for long-term operation. Filter material composition was optimized by a half year experimentation. The treatment effects of vermifiltration were also compared with traditional activated sludge process for the same influent sewage. The results showed that the designed vermifiltration system could continuously treat the sewage produced by more than 100 inhabitants per day. COD, BOD5 and SS concentration in outflow were rather stable despite the fluctuation of hydraulic loading rate and organic input during one year test. It can also remove N and P to some extent. A suspending design of vermifilter bed cause adequate oxygen content in outflow of vermifilter. The comparative test showed that the treatment efficacy of vermifiltration was similar as activated sludge process. Generally, this vermifiltration system has practical application value for village sewage treatment.
Impact of anti-scalant on fouling of reverse osmosis membranes in reclamation of secondary effluent
Authors: Qin J. J. , Wai M. N. , Oo M. H. , Kekre K. A. , Seah H.
Published: November 2009

The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of anti-scalant on fouling of reverse osmosis (RO) membranes in reclamation of secondary effluent which was produced by a conventional activated sludge process at Kranji Water Reclamation Plant with the capacity of 151,000 m3/d. The study was carried out using a RO pilot plant with the capacity of 2.4 m3/h. The RO plant was in 2:1 configuration and was operated at 75% recovery and at membrane flux of 17 l m−2 h−1. Pilot trials were conducted with and without anti-scalant. Compositions of feed and concentrate streams were analyzed and the pilot data were normalized. The results of the study showed that the plant operation was stable during the first few days after stopping dosage of anti-scalant but after 3–6 days of operation the membranes were fouled. The time lag effect of anti-scalant without dosage was not reported previously and could be potentially beneficial to save chemicals. The membrane fouling was more serious at the second stage due to the formation of calcium phosphate scale when the pilot plant was operated without anti-scalant. The flux of fouled membranes could be completely recovered after clean-in-place (CIP) with citric acid, indicating that scaling dominated the fouling of the RO membranes. These findings in the study could be applied to select an appropriate anti-scalant for prevention from formation of calcium phosphate scale in the RO operation.
Dissolved methane in rising main sewer systems: field measurements and simple model development for estimating greenhouse gas emissions
Authors: Foley Jeff , Yuan Zhiguo , Lant Paul
Published: November 2009

At present, the potential generation of methane in wastewater collection systems is ignored under international greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting protocols, despite recent reports of substantial dissolved methane formation in sewers. This suggests that the current national GHG inventories for wastewater handling systems are likely to be underestimated for some situations. This study presents a new catalogue of field data on methane formation in rising main sewerage systems and proposes an empirically-fitted, theoretical model to predict dissolved methane concentrations, based upon the independent variables of pipeline geometry (i.e. surface area to volume ratio, A/V) and hydraulic retention time (HRT). Systems with longer HRT and/or larger A/V ratios are shown to have higher dissolved methane concentrations. This simple predictive model provides a means for water authorities to estimate the methane emissions from other pressurised sewerage systems of similar characteristics.
Appropriate rehabilitation strategy for a traditional irrigation supply system: a case from the Babai area in Nepal
Authors: Adhikari B. , Verhoeven R. , Troch P.
Published: November 2009

This paper studies primary canals of three traditional irrigation systems in the southern plains of Nepal. It offers a scientific interpretation of the indigenous technology applied to the systems, which facilitates to use the same channel network for irrigation, drainage and flood management. The flood management technology of the farmers by diverting as much discharge as possible to the field channels results in the reduction of discharge towards the downstream part of the main channel. It is depicted in the simulation study that uses the river analysis program HEC-RAS 4.0. A cascade of weirs is found to be the most cost effective and user-friendly option to upgrade these systems preserving the existing irrigation, drainage as well as flood management functions. This study suggests that the conventional irrigation design principles should be applied very cautiously with full knowledge of the existing socio-institutional setting, hydro-ecological regime and indigenous technology for upgrading any traditional irrigation system successfully. The indigenous flood management technology strengthens the emerging concept that the floods in the Ganges plain are to be managed, not controlled.
Treatment performance of artificial floating reed beds in an experimental mesocosm to improve the water quality of river Kshipra
Authors: Billore S. K. , Prashant  , Sharma J. K.
Published: November 2009

The discharge of untreated wastewater in River Kshipra had brought annual average of BOD, TKN and TS levels up to 39 mg/l, 38 mg/l and 781 mg/l respectively in the study area. Treatment performance by Artificial Floating Reed Beds (AFRB) was evaluated for removal efficiency of TS, NH4-N, NO3-N, TKN and BOD from river water, initially, under a pilot scale by an AFRB of size 200 m2 planted with local reed grass, Phragmites karka, in the part of River Kshipra at the confluence with meeting point of a wastewater stream. The system performance was recorded as 43% reduction in TS, 38% reduction in TKN and 39% BOD reduction. The experimental AFRBs were buoyant structure planted with reed grass, each unit had a rectangular size and covered an effective surface area of 2 m2. The experiment with the mesocosms with treatment of River water resulted that AFRB was reducing pollution load by 55–60% of TS, 45–55% of NH4-N, 33–45% of NO3-N, 45–50% of TKN and 40–50% of BOD. AFRB may be recommended as an in-situ, eco-friendly river water treatment structures for small shallow, slow flowing (or slightly stagnant) water bodies.
Diurnal fluctuation of indicator microorganisms and intestinal viruses in combined sewer system
Authors: Kim W. J. , Managaki S. , Furumai H. , Nakajima F.
Published: November 2009

Combined sewer overflow (CSO) has been considered to be a source of pathogenic microorganisms for aquatic environment. For the effective control and treatment of CSOs, the microbial behavior in combined sewer system (CSS) needs to be investigated. In this study, whole-day extensive monitoring of indicator microorganisms and intestinal viruses in dry weather flow (DWF) was conducted at a small residential urban drainage area with CSS. All indicator bacteria represented similar diurnal variations in the two different monitoring campaigns; their concentrations gradually decreased to the minimum at the dawn (around 5 a.m.), increased sharply to the maximum around 7 to 8 a.m., and remained rather constant from noon to midnight. On the other hand, neither coliphages nor intestinal viruses showed any concentration peaks in the morning. The maximum/minimum load ratios ranged from 18 to 42 for total coliforms, fecal coliforms and E. coli, whereas those ratios for coliphages, enteroviruses and noroviruses G2 showed greater values than those for indicator bacteria. These results indicate that the diurnal variation patterns of bacterial and viral concentrations in DWF should be considered, which affect the discharge characteristics of each microorganism and the loads of bacteria and viruses in CSOs significantly vary with the overflow time as well.
A novel salt-tolerant mutant YWL-01 for the treatment of saline wastewater
Authors: Liu J. , Wang G. L.
Published: November 2009

The treatment of high-saline wastewater from some salt-end markets including agro-food industry is a serious problem yet to be solved in some coastal cities. The conventional physical–chemical techniques are energy-consuming and their startup and running costs are still high. Biological methods using salt-tolerant bacterial strains for the treatment of hypersaline wastewater provide one possible solution. In this study, one salt-tolerant mutant named YWL-01 was screened out by sewage treatment and proved to be a genetically stable salt-tolerant strain for saline wastewater treatment. First, combined mutagenesis was done on an isolated sewage treatment strain Bacillus Y for the screening of salt tolerance, and 11 mutants were obtained after subculture for many times. Then, a secondary screening test was performed for COD (chemical oxygen demand) and TOC (total organic carbon) removal efficiency analyses. At last, the best mutant YWL-01 with increased capacity to treat saline wastewater was chosen for use. RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) analysis of genetic stability on the mutant YWL-01 showed that it is a hereditary mutant for the treatment of high-saline wastewater.
Cognitive Understanding of Object Permanence in Mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx, L.)
Authors: Gabel Anna , Lucass Carsten , M. Zimmer Stefanie , Bietz Christina , Schwenke Maren , Wanker Ralf
Published: November 2009

Object permanence tests are a standard procedure to test the cognitive ability to mentally follow a hidden
object. To test this capacity in mandrills, we used visible and color-tracking with invisible displacement tests. During
visible displacement the object was hidden and moved within its container in full view of the tested individual. During
color-tracking with invisible displacement the object was hidden in a colored container, also in full view, but then moved
within its container out of view. The tested mandrills were successful in the visible but not in the color-tracking with
invisible displacement tests. They did not use the color as a cue for the correct container. One of the animals memorized
the position of the container, in which the reward was dropped before the invisible displacement. We assume that the
capacity of solving invisible displacement tests has evolved after the evolutionary separation of mandrills and apes.
Contracting in the Presence of Judicial Agency
Authors: Bond Philip
Published: November 2009

While a key function of contracts is to provide incentives, the incentives of judges to enforce the terms of a contract have rarely been examined. This paper develops a simple model of judicial agency in which judges are corrupt and can be bribed by contracting parties. Higher-powered contracts expose contracting parties to more frequent and more severe corruption, which in turn lessens the incentives actually provided by the contract. Consequently the model predicts that individuals will commonly refrain from writing high-powered contracts, even when such contracts would be valuable absent judicial agency. I show that similar implications can also be obtained by considering other forms of imperfection in contract enforcement, such as variable expenditures on legal representation. I use the model to develop implications for the optimal punishment of individuals who are extorted by corrupt judges, and to establish circumstances under which a right-of-appeal is optimal.