bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing Novel Wellbore Heat Transfer Strategies for HPHT Wells
Authors: Shoushtari Mohd Amin , Al-Kayiem Hussain H. , Irawan Sonny , Saaid Ismail B.
Published: April 2012

Oil and Gas production from HTHP reservoirs involves significant heat exchange between the wellbore fluid and its surroundings. During production, the hot fluid loses heat to the cold surroundings, continuously as it moves up the borehole. The heat transfer process impacts well-integrity and, in turn, the ability of the well to perform its required function effectively and efficiently with regard to safety and environmental factors.

One often overlooked heat transfer effect is the increase in annulus pressure resulting from annular fluid thermal expansion, which can result in tubing collapse or casing burst. Damage due to high annular pressure can also dramatically affect well- integrity.

During the design phase of a HPHT well, it is necessary to avoid risks and uncertainties and accurately plan the life cycle.

The present work aims to investigate the nature, and predict the natural convection heat transfer coefficient in the annulus. The approach to model the natural convection heat transfer in this work is by analytical and numerical techniques. The annular space between the tubing and the casing was treated as a finite space bounded by walls and filled with fluid media (enclosures). Correlations for vertical enclosures were employed in the study. The flow field was modeled and simulated for numerical analysis, using ANSYS-FLUENT - 12 software package. Some boundary parameters have been defined by the user and fed to the software. The predicted values of Nusselt numbers from both analytical and numerical approaches were compared with those of previous experimental investigations. The results of the present work can be used for preliminary design calculations of HPHT wells to estimate rate of heat transfer from HPHT wells. This work provides a novel baseline assessment for temperature related well-integrity problems in HPHT wells.
Novel Autonomous Recycling System
Authors: Al-Obaidi Abdullah , Al-Ali Khaled , Rabia Mohamed , Al-Khuffash Kamal , Qaroot Yahya , Saleh Khaled , Lamont Lisa , Al-Hajeri Ebrahim , El-Chaar Lana , Karki Hamad
Published: April 2012

The UAE Government is actively attempting to lead the efforts of reducing CO2 emissions by encouraging the process of recycling materials and implementing renewable energy sources. Currently, the collection of recyclable material is via different labeled bins which hold the materials. Even though such configuration is a very cost effective, people tend not to follow instructions hence requiring the mixed materials inside the bin to be sorted after collection. Therefore, this paper proposes a system for autonomously identifying, handling, and sorting plastic, aluminum, and glass waste products. The system is intended to operate in an outdoor environment and therefore, solar energy technology is integrated as its primary power source. Many challenges are present in the system particularly in reliably identifying the various materials. Hence, an innovative material identification method were tested and implemented in the system. The method introduces the principle of recording, analyzing and identifying the recyclable materials from the sound effect generated when the object is dropped on a hard surface. The system was tested by throwing 300 samples of plastic, glass, aluminum with different shapes, sizes, and colors in both quiet and noisy environments. Out of 300 samples, only 1 sample was identified incorrectly which gives a success rate of 99.67%. Therefore, this system is an effective solution to reduce the cost and time required by material recovery facilities in the recycling process. In order to encourage the community to recycle, the system is enhanced by a novel idea where money is given in exchange for the recyclable objects based on weight and material through coding and limits based on the UAE Standards. The user has also the option of donating the accumulated sum for a specific charity.
Parameter-dependent convergence bounds and complexity measure for a class of conceptual hydrological models
Authors: Pande Saket , Bastidas Luis A. , Bhulai Sandjai , McKee Mac
Published: April 2012

We provide analytical bounds on convergence rates for a class of hydrologic models and consequently derive a complexity measure based on the Vapnik–Chervonenkis (VC) generalization theory. The class of hydrologic models is a spatially explicit interconnected set of linear reservoirs with the aim of representing globally nonlinear hydrologic behavior by locally linear models. Here, by convergence rate, we mean convergence of the empirical risk to the expected risk. The derived measure of complexity measures a model's propensity to overfit data. We explore how data finiteness can affect model selection for this class of hydrologic model and provide theoretical results on how model performance on a finite sample converges to its expected performance as data size approaches infinity. These bounds can then be used for model selection, as the bounds provide a tradeoff between model complexity and model performance on finite data. The convergence bounds for the considered hydrologic models depend on the magnitude of their parameters, which are the recession parameters of constituting linear reservoirs. Further, the complexity of hydrologic models not only varies with the magnitude of their parameters but also depends on the network structure of the models (in terms of the spatial heterogeneity of parameters and the nature of hydrologic connectivity).
Contribution of parallel NSGA-II in optimal design of water distribution networks
Authors: Artina Sandro , Bragalli Cristiana , Erbacci Giovanni , Marchi Angela , Rivi Marzia
Published: April 2012

Optimization of water distribution networks is a NP-hard problem that researchers have tried to deal with using different formulations and algorithmic approaches. Among these, multi-objective heuristic algorithms are interesting because of their capacity for dealing with separate objectives that allow us to choose a posteriori the best compromise, but one of their main drawbacks is the long time required to obtain good solutions. Parallel processing is the most promising way to reduce the computing time and can make the convergence to adequate solutions faster. This paper intends to investigate the possibility of improving the efficacy and efficiency of an NSGA-II algorithm by parallelization of the optimization process at the same time. Results of different parallel implementations of NSGA-II applied to optimal design of small- and medium-size water distribution networks are presented. Good speed-up can be reached with a global model, hence improving the algorithm efficiency. Unlike the global model, the island model (or the hierarchical parallelization) can also improve its efficacy because it introduces fundamental changes in the algorithm exploration method. Possibilities offered by parallel island models have been investigated showing that some parameter configurations can find better solutions compared with the serial version of the algorithm.
Integrating three lake models into a Phytoplankton Prediction System for Lake Taihu (Taihu PPS) with Python
Authors: Huang Jiacong , Gao Junfeng , Hörmann Georg , Mooij Wolf M.
Published: April 2012

In the past decade, much work has been done on integrating different lake models using general frameworks to overcome model incompatibilities. However, a framework may not be flexible enough to support applications in different fields. To overcome this problem, we used Python to integrate three lake models into a Phytoplankton Prediction System for Lake Taihu (Taihu PPS). The system predicts the short-term (1–4 days) distribution of phytoplankton biomass in this large eutrophic lake in China. The object-oriented scripting language Python is used as the so-called ‘glue language’ (a programming language used for connecting software components). The distinguishing features of Python include rich extension libraries for spatial and temporal modelling, modular software architecture, free licensing and a high performance resulting in short execution time. These features facilitate efficient integration of the three models into Taihu PPS. Advanced tools (e.g. tools for statistics, 3D visualization and model calibration) could be developed in the future with the aid of the continuously updated Python libraries. Taihu PPS simulated phytoplankton biomass well and has already been applied to support decision making.
Multiscale nonlinear model for monthly streamflow forecasting: a wavelet-based approach
Authors: Rathinasamy Maheswaran , Khosa Rakesh
Published: April 2012

The dynamics of the streamflow in rivers involve nonlinear and multiscale phenomena. An attempt is made to develop nonlinear models combining wavelet decomposition with Volterra models. This paper describes a methodology to develop one-month-ahead forecasts of streamflow using multiscale nonlinear models. The method uses the concept of multiresolution decomposition using wavelets in order to represent the underlying integrated streamflow dynamics and this information, across scales, is then linked together using the first- and second-order Volterra kernels. The model is applied to 30 river data series from the western USA. The mean monthly data series of 30 rivers are grouped under the categories low, medium and high. The study indicated the presence of multiscale phenomena and discernable nonlinear characteristics in the streamflow data. Detailed analyses and results are presented only for three stations, selected to represent the low-flow, medium-flow and high-flow categories, respectively. The proposed model performance is good for all the flow regimes when compared with both the ARMA-type models as well as nonlinear models based on chaos theory.
Gene-expression programming to predict scour at a bridge abutment
Authors: Azamathulla H. Md.
Published: April 2012

The process involved in the local scour at an abutment is so complex that it makes it difficult to establish a general empirical model to provide accurate estimation for scour. This study presents the use of gene-expression programming (GEP), which is an extension of genetic programming (GP), as an alternative approach to estimate the scour depth. The datasets of laboratory measurements were collected from the published literature and used to train the network or evolve the program. The developed network and evolved programs were validated by using the observations that were not involved in training. The proposed GEP approach gives satisfactory results compared with existing predictors and artificial neural network (ANN) modeling in predicting the scour depth at an abutment.
Parasitological risk assessment from wastewater reuse for disposal in soil in developing countries
Authors: Cutolo Silvana A. , Piveli Roque P. , Santos Jéferson G. , Montes Célia R. , Sundefeld Gilberto , Campos Fábio , Gomes Tamara M. , Melfi Adolpho J.
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this work is to analyze the parasitological risks of treated wastewater reuse from a stabilization pond in the city of Piracicaba, in the State of São Paulo (Brazil), and the level of treatment required to protect public health. Samples were taken from raw and treated wastewater in stabilization ponds and submitted to a parasitological, microbiological and physicochemical analysis. The study revealed on treated wastewater the presence of Ascaris sp. and Entamoeba coli with an average density of 1 cysts L−1 and 6 eggs L−1, respectively. For Ascaris, the annual risks of infection due to the accidental ingestion of wastewater irrigation were 7.5 × 10−2 in 208 days and 8.7 × 10−2 in 240 days. For Total Coliforms and Escherichia coli in treated wastewater, the average density was 1.0 × 105 MPN/100 ml and 2.7 × 104 MPN/100 ml respectively, representing 99% and 94% removal efficiency, respectively. For BOD, COD, TS and TSS removal efficiency was 69, 80, 50 and 71%, respectively. The removal efficiency for nitrogen; ammonia nitrogen and total phosphate was 24, 19 and 68%, respectively. The average density of helminths eggs in treated wastewater is higher compared to the density of the limit value of ≤1 egg L−1 and tolerable risk is above the level recommended by the World Health Organization. Multiple barriers are necessary for the reduction of organic matter, chemical contaminants and parasites from treated wastewater. Standards for the sanitary control of treated wastewater to be reused in agricultural irrigation areas should be compiled for developing countries in order to minimize public health risks.
Influence of dye type and salinity on aerobic decolorization of azo dyes by microbial consortium and the community dynamics
Authors: Tan Liang , Ning Shuxiang , Wang Ying , Cao Xiangyu
Published: April 2012

In this research, aerobic decolorization of different azo dyes by a microbial community was studied. The results showed that more than 80% of four azo dyes (100 mg/L) could be aerobically decolorized by the microbial consortium, however, the time needed was obviously different. Kinetic data indicated that the processes were well described by zero-order kinetics, and the chemical structures of dyes had obvious influence on decolorization rates. On the other hand, effects of salinity on decolorization were also investigated. There was still 40% dye removal for Acid Brilliant Red GR when the salinity increased to 250 g/L. And the microbial community structures with different salinity were detected by PCR-DGGE. It was shown that the same two bacteria were dominant in all decolorization systems, and some typical halophilic microorganisms were found under higher-salt conditions.
Integrated modelling of sewer system and wastewater treatment plant for investigating the impacts of chemical dosing in sewers
Authors: Sharma K. R. , Corrie S. , Yuan Z.
Published: April 2012

Chemicals are often dosed to control the production and accumulation of hydrogen sulfide in sewers. The biological and/or chemical actions of these chemicals have profound impacts on the composition of wastewater entering a WWTP, thereby affecting its performance. In this paper, an integrated modelling methodology for simultaneously investigating the effects of dosing of chemicals in sewer network and N and P removal at the downstream WWTP is reported. The sewer system is modelled using a sewer model (SeweX), and the WWTP is modelled using ASM2d model with some modifications. The importance of integrated modelling in sewer management is also demonstrated.
Characteristics of denitrifying granular sludge grown on nitrite medium in an upflow sludge blanket (USB) reactor
Authors: Jin Xibiao , Wang Feng , Liu Guohong , Liu Yongdi
Published: April 2012

While inoculating pre-acclimatized floccular sludge, nitrite-denitrifying granular sludge was obtained after approximately 40 days of cultivation in a 10 L upflow sludge blanket (USB) reactor. The nitrite removal efficiency was approximately 95% when the nitrite concentration was 50 mg L−1at an influent flow rate of 20 L h−1. The nitrite granular sludge had several notable features including good settleability (110 m h−1), high ash content (79%), and high density (1.248 g cm−3). The mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) of the sludge bed remained at 130.04 g L−1, at a hydraulic upflow velocity of 2 m h−1. These interesting characteristics were attributed to a high effluent pH (9.7) caused by the release of alkalinity during the nitrite denitrification process. The surfaces of the granules were dominated by cocci bacteria with a diameter of approximately 3 μm, which could be classiﬁed as Nitrosomonas-like species based on our analysis of 16 S rDNA sequences.
Removal of Ni(II) from aqueous solution using Moringa oleifera seeds as a bioadsorbent
Authors: Marques Thiago L. , Alves Vanessa N. , Coelho Luciana M. , Coelho Nívia M. M.
Published: April 2012

Metal contaminants are generally removed from effluents by chemical and physical processes which are often associated with disadvantages such as the use of toxic reagents, generation of toxic waste and high costs. Hence, new techniques have been developed, among them the study of natural adsorbents, for instance, the use of Moringa oleifera seeds. The potential of M. oleifera seeds for nickel removal in aqueous systems was investigated. The seeds utilized were obtained from plants grown in Uberlândia/Brazil. After being dried and pulverized, the seeds were treated with 0.1 mol/L NaOH. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analyses were used for the characterization of the material. Using the optimized methodology (50 mL of 4.0 mg/L Ni(II), pH range of 4.0–6.0, agitation time of 5 min and adsorption mass of 2.0 g) more than 90% of Ni(II) could be removed from water samples. The sorption data were fitted satisfactorily by the Langmuir adsorption model. Evaluation applying the Langmuir equation gave the monolayer sorption capacity as 29.6 mg/g. The results indicate that this material could be employed in the extraction of nickel, considering its ease of use, low cost and environmental viability, which make it highly attractive for application in developing countries.
Determination of dairy wastewater treatability by bio-trickling filter packed with lava rocks – case study PEGAH dairy factory
Authors: Mehrdadi N. , Bidhendi G. R. Nabi , Shokouhi M.
Published: April 2012

This paper investigates the effectiveness of a biological trickling filter for the treatment of wastewaters produced by a company manufacturing dairy products. First a bio-trickling column with a height of 150 cm was packed with lava rocks from north mountain of Tehran. It operates with the recirculation of liquid through the packing. In order to startup the pilot scale, steady state condition was gained by pumping activated sludge and dairy wastewater for 23 days. Afterwards, dairy wastewater was added to liquid tank for treatment. Hydraulic retention time (HRT) of treatment decreases from 5 days to 1 day then at HRT of 12, 8, 7, 6 and 4 h. Results show that the average chemical oxygen demand (COD) decreased from 2,750 to 98 mg/L at HRT of 7 h and efficiency of TKN removal was more than 70%. The microorganisms developed in the bio-trickling filter were able to efficiently remove COD levels up to 2,750 mg/L, under aerobic conditions at pH values between 6.8 and 7.2 under low temperature condition between 10 and 13 °C.
Nutrient reference concentrations and trophic state boundaries in subtropical reservoirs
Authors: Cunha D. G. F. , Ogura A. P. , Calijuri M. d. C.
Published: April 2012

Nutrient criteria as reference concentrations and trophic state boundaries are necessary for water management worldwide because anthropogenic eutrophication is a threat to the water uses. We compiled data on total phosphorus (TP), nitrogen (TN) and chlorophyll a (Chl a) from 17 subtropical reservoirs monitored from 2005–2009 in the São Paulo State (Brazil) to calculate reference concentrations through the trisection method (United States Environmental Protection Agency). By dividing our dataset into thirds we presented trophic state boundaries and frequency curves for the nutrient levels in water bodies with different enrichment conditions. TP and TN baseline concentrations (0.010 mg/L and 0.350 mg/L, respectively) were bracketed by ranges for temperate reservoirs available in the literature. We propose trophic state boundaries (upper limits for the oligotrophic category: 0.010 mg TP/L, 0.460 mg TN/L and 1.7 μg Chl a/L; for the mesotrophic: 0.030 mg TP/L, 0.820 mg TN/L and 9.0 μg Chl a/L). Through an example with a different dataset (from the Itupararanga Reservoir, Brazil), we encouraged the use of frequency curves to compare data from individual monitoring efforts with the expected concentrations in oligotrophic, mesotrophic and eutrophic regional systems. Such analysis might help designing recovery programs to reach targeted concentrations and mitigate the undesirable eutrophication symptoms in subtropical freshwaters.
Nitrate estimation in the denitrifying post-filtration unit of a municipal wastewater treatment plant: the Viikinmäki case
Authors: Mulas M. , Corona F. , Haimi H. , Sundell L. , Heinonen M. , Vahala R.
Published: April 2012

In this work we present and discuss the design of an array of soft-sensors to estimate the nitrate concentration in the denitrifying post-filtration unit at the Viikinmäki wastewater treatment plant in Helsinki (Finland). The developed sensors aim at supporting the existing hardware analyzers by providing a reliable back-up system in case of malfunction of the instruments. In the attempt to design easy to implement and interpretable sensors, computationally light linear models have been considered. However, due to the intrinsic nonlinearity of the process, also nonlinear but still computationally affordable models have been considered for comparison. The experimental results demonstrate the potential of the developed soft-sensors and the possibility for an on-line implementation in the plant's control system as alternative monitoring devices.
Biosorption of heavy metals onto nonliving Laminaria japonica
Authors: Xiao Jun , Chikanori Miyamoto , Yu Ke-Feng , Hideshi Seki , Hideo Maruyama , He Pei-Min
Published: April 2012

In this paper, study of the biosorption of Cd2+ and Pb2+ by nonliving Laminaria japonica in a batch adsorption system is described. The content of acidic sites and the dissociation constant of carboxylic acid functional groups (metal-binding site) of L. japonica were experimentally determined by conductometric and potentiometric titrations and theoretically predicated by using monodentate and bidentate binding models. The models are based on the monodentate or bidentate binding reactions of bivalent metal ions to acidic sites. The acidic site content and carboxylic acid dissociation constants determined are 1.25 and 0.18 mmol L−1, respectively. The results showed that the bidentate adsorption model fits well the biosorption of bivalent metal ions onto L. japonica with the bidentate binding constants for Cd2+ and Pb2+ being 5.72 × 103 and 6.24 × 104 L mol−1, respectively. The adsorption process of L. japonica followed the pseudo-second-order kinetics.
Enhancement in thermal and mechanical properties of bricks
Authors: Shibib Khalid , Qatta Haqi , Hamza Mohammed
Published: April 2012

A new type of porous brick is proposed. Sawdust is initially well mixed with
wet clay in order to create voids inside the brick during the firing process.
The voids will enhance the total performance of the brick due to the
reduction of its density and thermal conductivity and a minor reduction of
its compressive stress. All these properties have been measured
experimentally and good performance has been obtained. Although a minor
reduction in compressive stress has been observed with increased porosity,
this property has still been larger than that of the common used hollow
brick. Data obtained by this work lead to a new type of effective brick
having a good performance with no possibility that mortar enters inside the
holes which is the case with the common used hollow bricks. The mortar has a
determent effect on thermal properties of the wall since it has some higher
thermal conductivity and density than that of brick which increases the wall
overall density and thermal conductivity of the wall.
The Wandering Ways of a PICC Line: Case Report of a Malpositioned Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) and Correction
Authors: Catudal J. Patricia , Sharpe Elizabeth L.
Published: April 2012

Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters (PICC) are essential in modern infusion therapy. We describe a case of a full-term infant with Trisomy 21, congenital cardiac anomalies and sepsis, where the PICC became malpositioned. Noninvasive repositioning strategies were successfully utilized through a team approach, which enabled this unstable infant to complete their therapy course without the undue stress of inserting a new PICC or requiring additional X-Rays or more invasive replacement procedures.
RN Knowledge of Vascular Access Devices Management
Authors: Paolucci Helen , Nutter Benjamin , Albert Nancy M.
Published: April 2012

Purpose: To explore the level of RNs knowledge of managing vascular access devices (VADs)- peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) and midline catheters, and to determine if nurse characteristics are associated with knowledge level.

Background: Education of nursing staff about VAD management can improve quality of care and assure standards of practice are maintained.

Review of Literature: Minimal research is available on nurses' knowledge of managing VAD catheters.

Methods: Nurses working on a colo-rectal unit who frequently manage VADs in a large tertiary-care medical center voluntarily completed one anonymous, validated, 10-item survey of VAD management themes. Analysis included descriptive and correlational statistics.

Results: Of 36 nurses, (97% female, 53% full time), mean VAD knowledge score was 8.1 ± 1.4 (81% mean sum score). Perceived general level of comfort in flushing PICCs (r=.35, P=0.04), using Alteplase with PICCs (r=.36, P=0.03) and changing dressings (r=.38; P=0.03) were associated with higher knowledge scores. Of 10 items, 4 resulted in scores below 80%: how fast a Midline can be used after insertion, first step in managing a PICC upon admission, steps in dealing with a withdrawal occlusion, and steps post interventional radiology PICC insertion; however, nurse characteristics were not associated with scores above or below 80%.

Conclusions: Nurses working in the colo-rectal unit that frequently treat patients with VADs were generally knowledgeable about their management. Perceived nurse comfort in flushing a PICC, using Alteplase, and changing dressings were associated with higher knowledge.

Implications for Practice: Nurses' impressions of comfort with VAD management should be regularly assessed by nurse managers to assure optimal knowledge.
Haematological and innate immune responses in Puntius sarana: normal range and seasonal variation
Authors: Das Abhilipsa , Jena Joy , Sahoo Pramoda
Published: April 2012

A study was conducted to measure the normal ranges, seasonal and annual variations in haematological and immune parameters of juvenile healthy Puntius sarana (weighing 75–100 g) during three major seasons over two consecutive years. Significantly (P<0.05) lower serum myeloperoxidase and ceruloplasmin activities, superoxide production, plasma glucose level, packed cell volume and haemoglobin concentration were detected in winter as compared to the summer season. However, serum lysozyme activity, antiprotease activity, total erythrocyte count (TEC) and TLC profiles were consistent during all seasons. The reference intervals (25th–75th) of each parameter were estimated and a range was established. The annual changes in immune parameters with minimum and maximum values were measured and a significant variation was noticed in myeloperoxidase, antiprotease, total protein levels and TEC over two consecutive years. The lower levels in haematological and innate immune status of fish during winter possibly indicate a higher disease risk period for the species.
Long-term changes in numbers of geese stopping over and wintering in south-western Poland
Authors: Wuczyński Andrzej , Smyk Bartosz , Kołodziejczyk Paweł , Lenkiewicz Wiesław , Orłowski Grzegorz , Pola Andrzej
Published: April 2012

South-western Poland belongs to the key staging areas for geese in Europe, supporting some 100000 birds in recent years. We compared goose counts conducted in the 1970s, 1990s and during 2009–2011 in this region, and linked the findings to the recent assessments of trends in the flyway-populations. Numbers increased several dozen times between the first two counts and have stabilized to the present. More than 14% of the flyway Tundra Bean Goose (Anser fabalis rossicus) stopped over in SW Poland on passage. Smaller numbers of White-fronted Goose (A. albifrons), Greylag Goose (A. anser), and four other rarer species, have all increased since the 1970s. The likely factors responsible for these changes are mild weather conditions, increased availability of large water bodies and shifts in winter ranges of particular species. Temporal mismatch between SW Poland and the total flyways in Bean and White-fronted Geese was recorded when we compared the long-term and the short-term population trends. Increasing reports of other species in SW Poland match the general tendencies in Europe. These data document that regional trends are not a simple reflection of those in flyways as a whole. To understand changes in goose populations a re-established international count network is desired.
Rhizobial communities in symbiosis with legumes: genetic diversity, competition and interactions with host plants
Authors: Wielbo Jerzy
Published: April 2012

The term ‘Rhizobium-legume symbiosis’ refers to numerous plant-bacterial interrelationships. Typically, from an evolutionary perspective, these symbioses can be considered as species-to-species interactions, however, such plant-bacterial symbiosis may also be viewed as a low-scale environmental interplay between individual plants and the local microbial population. Rhizobium-legume interactions are therefore highly important in terms of microbial diversity and environmental adaptation thereby shaping the evolution of plant-bacterial symbiotic systems. Herein, the mechanisms underlying and modulating the diversity of rhizobial populations are presented. The roles of several factors impacting successful persistence of strains in rhizobial populations are discussed, shedding light on the complexity of rhizobial-legume interactions.
Biology and ecology of Appendiseta robiniae (Hemiptera: Aphidoidea) — an alien species in Europe
Authors: Borowiak-Sobkowiak Beata , Durak Roma
Published: April 2012

Elements of the biology and ecology of A. robiniae were studied in Poland during the period of 2008–2009. The term of spring hatching, number of generations per season, developmental time of particular generations, lifespan of specimens and fecundity of particular generations were all defined. The dynamics of the species’ occurrence on its host plant were also determined. The two-year study showed a maximum of 11 aphid generations can develop on Robinia pseudoacacia. Females of the second and third generations were found to be the most fertile. These findings indicate that the species has adapted well in Poland and its biological predispositions have enabled it to rapidly increase in population.
Time-dependent perezone production in different culture systems of Acourtia cordata
Authors: Gómez-Serrano Gabriela , Cristiani-Urbina Eliseo , Villegas-Garrido Thelma
Published: April 2012

Perezone, a sesquiterpenic benzoquinone with diverse medicinal properties, accumulates in the roots of Acourtia species. In this time-dependent study, the production of perezone was followed in A. cordata culture systems of plants kept in vitro or acclimated and grown in pots. Perezone was characterized by several analytical methods, using the crystallized compound isolated from roots of wild plants as standard. A procedure was developed for its selective quantification, which considers the specific bathochromic shift of the absorbance band in the visible region between the spectra of perezone in its non-ionic and ionic forms, with intensity directly proportional to concentration. In vitro, perezone was recovered from A. cordata roots in average amounts of 5.21 mg g−1 dry weight. Contrastingly, in plants under ex vitro conditions, perezone in roots increased logarithmically, rising from an average of 2.4 mg g−1 dry weight at the 12th week, to 43.6 mg g−1 dry weight at the 31st week, an amount comparable to wild plants. These findings show the feasibility of in vitro and ex vitro culture systems to propagate and conserve the germplasm of perezone-producing Acourtia plants, and a fast and reliable method for the quantification of this valuable compound.
Biologically active secondary metabolites from Actinomycetes
Authors: Solecka Jolanta , Zajko Joanna , Postek Magdalena , Rajnisz Aleksandra
Published: April 2012

Secondary metabolites obtained from Actinomycetales provide a potential source of many novel compounds with antibacterial, antitumour, antifungal, antiviral, antiparasitic and other properties. The majority of these compounds are widely used as medicines for combating multidrug-resistant Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Members of the genus Streptomyces are profile producers of previously-known secondary metabolites. Actinomycetes have been isolated from terrestrial soils, from the rhizospheres of plant roots, and recently from marine sediments. This review demonstrates the diversity of secondary metabolites produced by actinomycete strains with respect to their chemical structure, biological activity and origin. On the basis of this diversity, this review concludes that the discovery of new bioactive compounds will continue to pose a great challenge for scientists.
Analysis of polyphenols, phytosterols, and bitter principles in Teucrium L. species
Authors: Grubešić Renata , Kremer Dario , Vladimir-Knežević Sanda , Rodríguez Jadranka
Published: April 2012

Total polyphenols, tannins, β-sitosterol, and bitterness values were determined in native and cultivated populations of Teucrium L. species from Croatia (T. arduini L., T. botrys L., T. chamaedrys L., T. flavum L., T. montanum L., T. polium L., and T. scordium L. subsp. scordioides Schreb.). Teucrium species have long been present in folk medicine for diverse medicinal uses, but little is known about polyphenols, phytosterols, and bitter principles. Spectrophotometrically determined contents of total polyphenols (TP) and tannins (T) significantly varied among investigated Teucrium species and were somewhat higher in native populations. The highest TP and T contents were measured in native specimens of T. montanum (TP: 13.68%; T: 3.48%). Scanning densitometry was used for measurements of β-sitosterol levels in plant samples ranged from 0.056% (T. montanum) to 0.129% (T. botrys), and it was not significantly different between native and cultivated specimens of the same plant species. Bitterness values were similar for native and cultivated samples of the same plant species; the highest was measured for T. montanum (15659). The present study suggests that Teucrium species growing in Croatia have potential for cultivation and might be a valuable source of natural bioactive compounds.
Effects of Statins on the Recovery of Olfactory Function in a 3-Methylindole–Induced Anosmia Mouse Model
Authors: Kim Hyo Yeol , Kim Joon Ho , Dhong Hun-Jong , Kim Ki Ryung , Chung Seung-Kyu , Chung Soo-Chan , Kang Jeong Min , Jung Yong Gi , Jang Seong Yun , Hong Sang Duk
Published: April 2012

Background

Despite the importance of olfactory function, no effective medications have been identified to treat olfactory disorders. This study was performed to evaluate the functional recovery of olfaction damaged by 3-methylindole (3MI) in a mouse model with hydroxymethylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins).

Methods

In a randomized placebo-controlled trial, 24 healthy female BALB/c mice (aged 9–10 weeks and weighing 18–20 g each) were randomly allocated to statin-treated or control groups. Olfactory loss was induced by i.p. injections of 3MI. Atorvastatin (10 mg/kg) or normal saline was then administered per os with a gastric tube for 3 weeks. The effects of treatment were evaluated by food-finding tests and Western blot analysis.

Results

Both groups showed complete losses of olfactory function 1 week after 3MI injection. Three weeks after 3MI injection, 9 of the 12 mice in the statin-treated group (75%) passed a food-finding test, in which they were able to find the food within 3 minutes, at least two times out of three trials. However, only two mice in the control group (16.6%) passed the food-finding test, and this difference was statistically significant (p = 0.004; chi-square test). The expression level of the olfactory marker protein was also elevated in the statin-treated group (p = 0.030; Wilcoxon rank sum test).

Conclusion

Statins are associated with recovery of olfaction after 3MI injection in a mouse model.
Effect of [6]-Gingerol on Myofibroblast Differentiation in Transforming Growth Factor Beta 1–Induced Nasal polyp–Derived Fibroblasts
Authors: Park Sook A. , Park Il-Ho , Cho Jung-Sun , Moon You-Mi , Lee Seung Hoon , Kim Tae Hoon , Lee Sang Hag , Lee Heung-Man
Published: April 2012

Background

[6]-Gingerol is one of the major pungent principles of ginger and has diverse effects, including anti-inflammatory, and antioxidative effects. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are released during the phenotypic transformation of fibroblasts to myofibroblasts, a process that is involved in the growth of nasal polyps by inducing extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of [6]-gingerol on myofibroblast differentiation and collagen production of nasal polyp–derived fibroblasts (NPDFs) and to determine if the effect of [6]-gingerol is linked to an antioxidant effect.

Methods

NPDFs were incubated and treated with transforming growth factor (TGF) beta 1. The ROS generated by NPDFs were determined using 2″,7″-dichlorfluorescein-diacetate. The fluorescence was captured by a fluorescent microscope and measured using a fluorometer. The expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (SMA) and collagen type IV mRNA was determined by a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and the expression of α-SMA protein and pSmad2/3 was determined by immunofluorescence microscopy and or Western blotting. The amount of total soluble collagen production was analyzed by the SirCol collagen dye-binding assay.

Results

TGF-beta 1 stimulation increased ROS production by NPDFs. [6]-Gingerol decreased the production of ROS in TGF-beta 1–induced NPDFs. Myofibroblast differentiation, collagen production, and phosphorylation of Smad2/3 were prevented by [6]-gingerol and inhibition of ROS generation with antioxidant such as diphenyliodonium, N-acetylcysteine, and ebselen.

Conclusion

These results suggest the possibility that [6]-gingerol may play an important role in inhibiting the production of the ECM in the development of nasal polyps through an antioxidant effect.
Surfactant Protein A and D in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyposis and Corticosteroid Response
Authors: Salman Serkan , Akpinar Meltem Esen , Yigit Ozgur , Gormus Uzay
Published: April 2012

Background

Corticosteroids are a mainstay of treatment for chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP). Data related to the effect of systemic methylprednisolone on surfactant protein (SP) expression in CRSwNP is limited. This study aimed to reveal the consequences of systemic methylprednisolone treatment on levels of SP-A and SP-D, which play a role in innate immunity, in patients with CRSwNP.

Methods

Twenty-one patients with CRSwNP were included in the study, along with 15 control patients scheduled for dacryocystorhinostomy. A polypoid tissue biopsy was taken under local anesthesia, and 15 CRSwNP patients were scheduled for endoscopic sinus surgery after 3 weeks of oral methylprednisolone. Posttreatment biopsies were performed perioperatively. Pre- and posttreatment endoscopic polyp grades were determined, as were symptom scores regarding nasal obstruction, headache, and nasal discharge using a visual analog scale (VAS). SP-A and SP-D levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and the results were compared.

Results

All patients reported relief from clinical symptoms through VAS after methylprednisolone treatment. The posttreatment polyp grade was reduced (p < 0.0001). SP-A and SP-D levels did not yield a significant difference between CRSwNP patients and controls (p = 0.25 and p = 0.13, respectively). Statistically significant up-regulation was detected in SP-A and SP-D levels after oral methylprednisolone (p = 0.0002 and p = 0.0004, respectively).

Conclusion

In this study, significant up-regulation of SP-A and SP-D was revealed in patients with CRSwNP after systemic steroid treatment. The role of SP-A and SP-D up-regulation in CRSwNP pathogenesis and therapeutic outcomes of corticosteroids have potential importance for the introduction of new therapeutic modalities that are more effective and produce fewer adverse effects.
The Effect of Topical FK506 (Tacrolimus) in a Mouse Model of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Shin Ji-Hyeon , Park Hyang Rim , Kim Sung Won , Park Chan-Soon , Cho Jin-Hee , Park Yong-Jin , Kim Soo Whan
Published: April 2012

Background

The management of allergic rhinitis (AR) encompasses education, pharmacotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery. FK506 (tacrolimus) is an immunosuppressant that inhibits allergic reactions. The purpose of this study was to reveal whether FK506 treatment reduces allergic inflammation in an AR mouse model and to elucidate the mechanisms.

Methods

Forty mice were divided into four groups: control, AR, FK (FK506), and dexamethasone (DEX). All mice except for the control group were sensitized by an i.p. injection of ovalbumin (OVA). After sensitization, the FK and DEX groups were treated with FK506 and DEX intranasally. All sensitized mice were challenged intranasally with OVA. Allergic symptoms and tissue eosinophil counts were recorded. Interleukin (IL)-5, interferon gamma, and IL-10 levels in nasal lavage fluid (NALF) and serum OVA-specific IgE levels were measured. T-bet, GATA-3, and Foxp3 mRNA expression in splenic mononuclear cells were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

In the FK group and DEX group, allergic symptoms, serum OVA-specific IgE, tissue eosinophil counts, IL-5 in NALF, and GATA-3 mRNAs expression decreased (p < 0.05), and IL-10 in NALF and Foxp3 mRNAs expression increased compared with the AR group (p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between the FK group and the DEX group.

Conclusion

These results suggest that topical FK506 may reduce allergic inflammation and have potency equal to DEX in the AR model. This mechanism may involve not only Th2 cells but also regulatory T cells. Additional studies are needed on FK506, but in the future, we can consider FK506 as an alternative to topical steroids in the treatment of AR.
Immunomodulatory Treatments for Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease
Authors: Moebus Rachel G. , Han Joseph K.
Published: April 2012

Background

Aspirin triad is a subclass of chronic sinusitis characterized by nasal polyposis, nonallergic induced asthma, and aspirin sensitivity. Also known as Samter's triad or aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease, aspirin triad commonly affects the adult population and is seldom found in pediatric patients.

Methods

This rhinosinusitis has multiple layers of pathological process, but the ultimate predicament is caused by cysteinyl leukotrienes (cysLTs).

Results

Pharmacotherapies include oral steroid, lipoxygenase inhibitor, and cysLT receptor inhibitor drugs, which can provide some relief for these patients.

Conclusion

Immunomodulation via aspirin desensitization is considered when pharmacotherapy has failed. When aspirin triad is unmanageable with medical treatment alone, endoscopic sinus surgery with polypectomy can alleviate the patient's symptoms, allowing for a better response to postoperative medical management such as topical medication as well as delivery of topical medications.
Sputtered Cathodes for Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells: Insights into Potentials, Challenges and Limitations
Authors: Schwanitz Bernhard , Rabis Annett , Horisberger Michael , Scherer Günther G. , Schmidt Thomas J.
Published: April 2012

The level of Pt loadings in polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFC) is still one of the main hindrances for implementation of PEFCs into the market. Therefore, new catalyst and electrode preparation methods such as sputtering are of current interest, because they allow thin film production
and have many cost saving advantages for electrode preparation. This paper summarises some of the most important studies done for sputtered PEFCs, including non carbon supported electrodes. Furthermore, it will be shown that an understanding of the main morphological differences between sputtered
and ink-based electrodes is crucial for a better understanding of the resulting fuel cell performance. Especially, the electrochemical surface area (ECSA) plays a key role for a further increase in PEFC performance of sputtered electrodes. The higher surface specific activities ik,spec
of sputtered compared to ink-based electrodes will be discussed as advantage of the thin film formation. The so- called particle size effect, known in literature for several years, will be discussed as reason for the higher ik,spec of sputtered electrodes. Therefore, a model
system on a rotating disc electrode (RDE) was studied. For sputtered PEFC cathodes Pt loadings were lowered to 100 ?gPt/cm2, yet with severe performance losses compared to ink-based electrodes. Still, for Pt sputtered electrodes on a carbon support structure remarkably
high current densities of 0.46 A/cm2 at 0.6 V could be achieved.
Continuous and Segmented Flow Microfluidics: Applications in High-throughput Chemistry and Biology
Authors: Stanley Claire E. , Wootton Robert C. R. , DeMello Andrew J.
Published: April 2012

This account highlights some of our recent activities focused on developing microfluidic technologies for application in high-throughput and high-information content chemical and biological analysis. Specifically, we discuss the use of continuous and segmented flow microfluidics for
artificial membrane formation, the analysis of single cells and organisms, nanomaterial synthesis and DNA amplification via the polymerase chain reaction. In addition, we report on recent developments in small-volume detection technology that allow access to the vast amounts of chemical and
biological information afforded by microfluidic systems.
Nature, Nurture, and the Social Order
Authors: O'Connor Adrian
Published: April 2012

Focusing on the work of Choderlos de Laclos, Riballier, Mme d'Épinay, and Mme de Genlis, this article examines the ways in which, during the 1770s and 1780s, women's education and women's social identity were imagined as two related questions. Both questions were shaped by the perceived dictates of nature, tradition, and necessity, yet each was open to debate and re-imagination. In the works of these four writers, we will see not only considerable ambivalence regarding women's social and familial identities, but also a rift between understandings of those identities based on nature and understandings based on social utility or tradition. Moreover, we will see that along with that ambivalence and that discursive rift came a tension between women's importance as wives and mothers, on the one hand, and their autonomy as selves, on the other.
Between the Party and the European Union?
Authors: Dimitrakopoulos Dionyssis G.
Published: April 2012

Do parties matter when EU policy is implemented in France? This article examines this question first in the context of cleavage theory and the literature on party positioning on European integration that draws attention to the origin and the nature of party preferences, and second in light of empirical evidence from the implementation of the Working Time Directive in France. It shows that, when faced with the same issue, governments of different ideological orientation responded in a way that reflected their historically defined référentiel rather than an EU Diktat. The argument here, then, is that far from ending domestic political contestation on the Left-Right axis, European integration and its concrete domestic manifestations in France are in fact subject to it.