bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rational Technological Parameters of the Soxhlet Extractor in the Production of Alcoholic Extracts from Cranberries
Authors: Fedorenko Boris , Borodulin Dmitriy , Prosin Maksim , Shafray Anton , Lobasenko Boris , Golovacheva Yana
Published: March 2020

Introduction. Vegetable raw materials have always been and still remain the main raw material for obtaining extracts. The extraction process is the most important stage during the production of extracts and aromatic spirits. The research objective was to study the extraction process of the target substances from fruit and berry raw materials for the production of alcoholic extracts.

Study objects and methods. The study featured cranberries, which are widespread in Siberia and have many useful properties. Cranberries are rich in vitamins C, B1, B2, B5, B6, PP and rarer vitamin K1. The studies were conducted using a Soxhlet extractor. The experimental results were processed using the method of multiple regression analysis. The research also exploited generally accepted methods for assessing the quality of samples of alcoholic beverages.

Results and discussion. The experiments made it possible to define the optimal technological regime parameters for the production of aromatic cranberry extract. The maximum values of all three processing parameters exerted the greatest effect on the dry matter content in cranberry extract. The recommended conditions resulted in a cranberry extract with a high content of target components. The presented mathematical description of the extraction process in the Soxhlet extractor makes it possible to preliminarily determine the quality indicators of the resulting beverage at the onset of production. Control experiments conducted under these conditions confirmed the calculated values.

Conclusion. By using a Soxhlet extractor, the preparation time for alcoholic cranberry extract was reduced to 20 minutes, which differs by one order of magnitude from the classical infusion production method. The Soxhlet extractor made it possible to use less solvent and raw materials, due to the almost maximum completeness of extraction of the target components of fruit and berry raw materials. This fact is bound to decrease the production expenses and the cost of the final product.
Yeasts as a Glutathione Producer
Authors: Meledina Tatiana , Morozov Artyom , Davydenko Svetlana , Ternovskoy Grigoriy
Published: March 2020

Introduction. Yeast is a fast-growing single-celled microorganism and an inexpensive source of various biologically active substances, such as antioxidants, e.g. Glutathione (GSH). Antioxidant properties are determined by the presence of sulfhydryl group. The global demand for glutathione is estimated to exceed 9 billion USD at the expense not only of pure crystalized glutathione, but also of glutathione-enriched yeast extracts. In the food industry, glutathione is used to improve the quality of the dough and enhance the taste of various products. The present research featured domestic and foreign studies on the content of glutathione in yeast, methods of biosynthesis, and antioxidant properties.

Results and discussion. The content of glutathione ranges from 0.1 to 1% per completely dry biomass (CDB) in wild yeast strains. The fermentative method for the accumulation of glutathione is based on the optimization of the nutrient medium and the use of glutathione precursors, i.e. cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine. Thus, this method makes it possible to double the content of intracellular glutathione in certain cultivation conditions. The use of non-directed mutagenesis methods can increase glutathione synthesis up to 5% in separate mutant strains, although the mechanism of synthesis is not always clear under such conditions. However, up to 2.27% of glutathione is being formed under directed change of the genome. In addition, the level of glutathione in cells increases under the influence of certain physical factors. For example, glutathione biosynthesis increases by 39% if yeast is exposed to a magnetic field. The enzymatic method requires maintaining the following factors: the presence of precursors (L-glutamic acid, L-cysteine, glycine), ATP, Mg2+ ions to activate GSH1 and GSH2, the pH of the medium, and the introduction of the necessary enzymes into the bioreactor. Hiwever, this method is non-economically profitable in large scale productions due to the needs in use ATP.

Conclusion. The survey research demonstrated the effect of technological characteristics of cultivation and biotechnological properties of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the accumulation of glutathione.
Ostrich Fat Production Using Electrolyzed Fluid
Authors: Gorbacheva Mariya , Tarasov Vasily , Kalmanovich Svetlana , Sapozhnikova Alla
Published: March 2020

Introduction. The fundamental competitiveness of all food industries is based on two key points. The first one is the effective use of traditional and new raw materials. The second one is a constant upgrade of the technical base by introducing innovative technological solutions and modern equipment. In this aspect, the fat processing industry is no exception. The development of a comprehensive and sustainable processing of ostrich fat can help to obtain rendered fat with specufic properties that can be used in functional foods and cosmetics. The research objective was to improve the parameters of ostrich fat rendering by using electrolyzed fluid in order to obtain a functional fat product of high quality indicators.

Study objects and methods. The research featured ostrich fat obtained by wet melting in the aqueous phase of electrolyte (catholyte). A saline solution of sodium chloride (4 g/100cm3) was subjected to electrochemical treatment in an electrolytic bath with a direct current of 0.5–0.6 A and a voltage of 40–42 V. For fat extraction, we used catholyte with the following parameters: pH 9–11, redox potential between –600 and –700 mV. A two-factor experiment helped to improve the technological parameters of fat rendering. Catholyte hydrogen index X1 (Z1) and fat melting temperature X2 (Z2) were chosen as the primary technological parameters.

Results and discussion. The processing temperature of raw fat had a significant effect on the fat yield. When the catholyte hydrogen index and the temperature were increased, it had a negative effect on fat extraction. The acid value of ostrich fat was significantly affected by the pH of catholyte. The inactivating effect of catholytic action on the enzymatic processes resulted in low values of peroxide fat.

Conclusion. The research provided the following optimal range for producing ostrich fat with improved consumer properties: hydrogen index = 10.5–11.0, melting temperature = 60.0–100.00°C.
Encapsulation of Powdered Rowanberries (Sorbus aucuparia) with Plant Polysaccharides
Authors: Matseychik Irina , Martynova Elizaveta , Korpacheva Svetlana , Shteer Angelina , Lomovskiy Igor
Published: March 2020

Introduction. Functional food industry has a stable tendency to use natural plant materials and products. The rowan thrives in Siberian conditions, which makes rowanberries a local raw material of plant origin. The article features the process of encapsulation of bitter plant extracts, which makes it possible to create new functional ingredients.

Study objects and methods. The plant extract was obtained from the powder of infrared-dried uncultivated rowanberries harvested in the city of Novosibirsk and the Altai Territory in September 2018 and October 2019. The research compared two parallel encapsulation technologies: spray and freeze drying. The encapsulating matrix vs. IR-dried powder ratio was established experimentally. Konjac and guar gum polysaccharides were used as encapsulating membranes. The content of antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamin C, and β-carotene was determined in the IR-dried rowanberry extract and encapsulated powder. A set of experiments made it possible to compile a new formulation of a cottage cheese dessert with encapsulated functional additive. The dessert was tested for various quality indicators that affect the physicochemical and rheological properties of the product, i.e. moisture, solids content, sugar content, vitamin C, β-carotene, antioxidant capacity, and biologically active flavonoids.

Results and discussion. Encapsulation significantly improved the sensory properties of the final material. The physicochemical quality assessment showed that a 1:1 dilution of rowan extract with a food polysaccharide did not affect the content of biologically active substances (with a tolerance of 8%). The physical and chemical quality assessment confirmed the functionality of the dessert: it contained > 15% of the daily physiological requirements of vitamin C, β-carotene, antioxidants, and flavonoids.

Conclusion. The paper introduces a novel method of rowan powder encapsulation, which was successfully applied to create a new functional product. The encapsulation technology made it possible to soften the natural bitterness of the raw material. The new functional product demonstrated excellent sensory properties and nutritional value.
Gluten-free Buckwheat Kvass with Aromatic Raw Materials
Authors: Tanashkina Tatiana , Peregoedova Anastasia , Semenyuta Anna , Boyarova Margarita
Published: March 2020

Introduction. The production of gluten-free food products, including alcohol-free beverages, is an urgent task for Russian food industry. Buckwheat malt has a great raw material potential, because it consists rutin, which can give the final product some useful functional properties. Aromatic raw materials improve the sensory characteristics of beverages and increase their nutritional value.

Study objects and methods. Kvass is a traditional Russian bread juice. To prepare gluten-free kvass, we used light and scalding buckwheat malt and water infusions of barberry, juniper, leaves of garden currant, and lemon balm grass. The wort was prepared by infusion and fermented with bottom beer yeast Saflager W-34/70. Then it was blended with infusions of plant materials. Sensory and physical and chemical properties of kvass were determined by standard methods. Antioxidant activity of the beverages was assessed by using DPPH radical scavenging method.

Results and discussion. All samples met the state standard requirements for kvass by sensory, physical, and chemical characteristics. The drinks obtained from the scalding malt were well-fermented and achieved better tasting ratings compared to those from the light malt. The control sample, which contained no aromatic raw materials, received the lowest scores for taste and aroma. The kvass blended with infusions of barberry and garden currant had the best results. The infusions increased the shelf life of the kvass from 7 days (control) to 12 (barberry), 14 (juniper), and 16 (currant). All samples of kvass demonstrated antioxidant activity, the beverage with infusion of garden currant leaves showing the best results (≤ 80%). Antiradical activity was established for the samples blended with barberry and currant infusions.

Conclusion. light and scalding buckwheat malt can be used to prepare gluten-free kvass. Blending buckwheat kvass with infusions of aromatic raw materials increased the shelf life of the beverages, improved their taste, aroma, and antioxidant activity (except the sample with infusions of juniper), and gave them antiradical properties.
Application of Visco-Elastic Deck in Decorticating Buckwheat Grains
Authors: Mar'in Vasily , Vereshchagin Alexander , Ivanov Andrey
Published: March 2020

Introduction. During buckwheat processing, up to 7.0% of the kernels turn into feed meal. This loss causes a significant decrease in profits during the production of buckwheat groats. Decorticating of buckwheat is complicated by the fact that the size uniformity of the grain mass does not exceed 40–50%. Since the grain size varies greatly, the mass is divided into fractions to optimize the

decorticating process. Sorting of grain into size fractions with subsequent calibration increases the efficiency of decorticating. The procedure makes it possible to choose the appropriate decorticating mode while maintaining the integrity of the kernel. New methods of decorticating improve the utilization of grain and, consequently, profitability. The research objective was to assess the rationality of the use of visco-elastic material for decorticating buckwheat grain.

Study objects and methods. The research featured buckwheat grain, which was divided into six fractions by size before decorticating. The grain was harvested in the foothill part of the Altai Territory in 2018.The effectiveness of the procedure was tested using a standard abrasive deck and a visco-elastic deck with Shore hardness = A-80-95 and elastic modulus = 2.8 MPa.

Results and discussion. A simultaneous use of a visco-elastic deck and an abrasive deck on a Valdecede machine reduced the mass fraction of the destroyed kernels at the stage of decorticating. The production tests involved processing of 23,000 thousand tons of buckwheat grain. The resource of visco-elastic decks in different fractions ranged from 6 to 12 months. The tests proved that viscoelastic decks provided a 1.5% increase in the mass fraction of buckwheat groats due to a reduction in the resulting feed meal. A set of economic calculations showed an increase in the marginal profit by 800,000 rubles per month.

Conclusion. The use of visco-elastic decks during decorticating of buckwheat grain of all fractions increased the profitability of buckwheat groats production by 1.8% and raised the yield by 1.5%.
Looking to the Stars: Millennials and Astrology
Authors: Kempton Barbara
Published: March 2020

This essay presents an argument on millennial interest in New Age spirituality, in particular astrology. This project culminated from an assignment of the Drawing II course in the spring 2018 semester, which included a short paper on a research topic of interest, and a drawing.
The Importance of Encompassing Medical History in Pre-Medicine
Authors: Alapatt, Vinaya-Ann
Published: March 2020

This essay presents an argument on the integration of medical humanities in pre-medical undergraduate curriculum. This project culminated from an assignment of the Drawing II course in the spring 2018 semester, which included a short paper on a research topic of interest, and a drawing.
The Secret Garden and Anne of Green Gables: Nature versus Nurture and Childhood Escapism
Authors: Bertzfield Hannah
Published: March 2020

This literary analysis focuses on the protagonists of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s The Secret Garden and Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables to examine the correlation between a child’s nature, the presence of nurture within their immediate developmental environment, and the resulting tendency to use escapism as a coping mechanism. Similar to a mild form of dissociation, escapism is a means by which the adolescent consciousness protects itself against negative external stimuli that may have damaging effects on the child’s psychological state. This is especially true when the child is subjected to severe trauma or prolonged, repetitive patterns of abuse or neglect. Regardless of the environment or the child’s socioeconomic position, nurturing is a force which counteracts the effects of negative stimuli and diminishes the subconscious need to escape. However, when nurture is absent, the likelihood of a child to utilize escapism as a means of coping with their environment is wholly contingent upon the child’s nature.
Cotton genome evolution and features of its structural and functional organization
Authors: Strygina Ksenia , Khlestkina Elena , Podolnaya Larisa
Published: March 2020

Allotetraploid cotton Gossypium hirsutum L. is not only an important crop, but also a model organism used to study such processes as polyploidization, plant genome evolution and the influence of polyploidy on gene expression. The present article provides a review of studies devoted to the taxonomy of the genus Gossypium, the evolution of the genomes of its representatives (including 45 diploid and 7 allotetraploid species), and the functional divergence of duplicated copies of the same genes in allotetraploid species. The discussion concerns the areas of individual species’ origin, as well as the reasons of the high variation in genome size (from ~880 Mb to ~2400 Mb), which was influenced by both full-genome duplications and the spread of mobile genetic elements. The data support the fact that the expression of genes in allotetraploid cotton changes as a result of polyploidization, and that one of the two subgenomes dominates in the formation of one or another trait. The considered data shed light on the features of the evolution of plant genes and genomes.
The Vavilov Institute’s (VIR) contribution to the survey and study of Vavilovia formosa (Fabaceae)
Authors: Vishnyakova Margarita
Published: March 2020

In the 1960s–1980s, the Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry, known worldwide as VIR, organized a substantial series of studies dedicated to a Caucasian endemic, the Pliocene relic Vavilovia formosa (Fabeae: Fabaceae). Those investigations are little known to the scientific community, although, in fact, the priority right for integrated research into this plant belongs to VIR. As a result of the cycle of studies, the first ideas about the biology and ecology of the species, the manner of its reproduction, its intraspecific diversity, the degree of crossability with other members of the tribe, its karyotype and anatomy were developed. The plants of V. formosa are not reproduced ex situ and their germplasm is absent in the world’s gene banks. Therefore, collecting V. formosa plants in their hard-to-reach habitats in the mountains is always crucial for research purposes, so a number of collecting expeditions were launched to the Greater Caucasus. The data thus obtained are discussed in the context of modern achievements in world science regarding this species.
Correlation between electrical and rheological measurements on sewage sludge
Authors: Dieudé-Fauvel E. , Baudez J.-C. , Coussot P. , Van Damme H.
Published: March 2020

In order to improve sewage sludge characterization for both dewatering and agricultural spreading, we have studied their electrical and rheological properties. On the one hand, electrical measurements give a picture of the microstructure of the material (charges, particles mobility), whereas on the other hand, rheological experiments describe its macrostructure (consistency). The interactions of the matter are the link between them. Our results showed that sludge becomes more conductive when its dry content (for a defined composition) or the temperature increases, and also during aging. In parallel its apparent viscosity increases with the dry content but decreases with the temperature or during aging. In each case a clear correlation was found between electrical and rheological parameters. This relationship clearly depends on sludge composition, and also on parameters such as the temperature, the observation frequency, the velocity range in the case of relaxation experiments. Finally, those types of experiments can be correlated to improve the comprehension of sludge structure and consistency characterization.
Composting of Sewage Sludge of Moscow Waste Water Treatment Plants Using Recycling Filler
Authors: Danilovich D.A. , Kozlov M.N. , Sklyar V.I. , Nikolaev Yu.A. , Shchegolkova N.M. , Vanyushina A.Ya. , Grachev V.A.
Published: March 2020

This work demonstrates a possibility of composting of municipal waste waters sludge (WWS) digested during 5-7 days, of the Kuryanovo waste water treatment plants (the city of Moscow) without the use of traditional organic additives – sawdust, peat, thatch. As a recycling filler (repeatedly used), enhancing the porosity of the composted mixture, ribbed polyethylene spheres (∅=8 cm) and wood chips (having dimension of 5-10 cm) were used. Composting was performed efficiently in both cases, however, the use of wood ships had technological and economical advantages. The process of composting was carried out during 2-4 weeks and was composed of classical phases of active heating (a rate of 0.2-0.3oC/h was obtained), maintaining of maximum temperature during 1-2 days, and cooling down to the ambient temperature. During the course of composting, a product was obtained, having attractive organoleptic properties, suitable for application in municipal laying-out of greenery.
Combined partial nitritation and Anammox biofilm system as a sustainable solution for supernatant treatment
Authors: Szatkowska B. , Plaza E. , Trela J. , Hultman B. , Bosander J.
Published: March 2020

Nowadays, as the effluent water regulations become more stringent, there is a need to treat wastewater in the most efficient manner and according to sustainability principles. One of the possibilities to meet this challenge is treatment of side streams, which are usually returned to the main influent of Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTP) increasing the total load. Following processes occurring in natural ecosystems a new biological technology - combination of partial nitritation and Anammox processes - for treatment of nitrogen-rich supernatant coming from digested sludge dewatering has been developed. The first stage of the process is an oxidation of half of the ammonium to nitrite (partial nitritation process). The following stage - Anammox process - is an anaerobic oxidation of ammonium and nitrite nitrogen to dinitrogen gas. The process has been successfully tested in a technical-scale pilot plant with a continuous supply of supernatant at Himmerfjärden WWTP. Kaldnes rings were provided for biofilm growth. Almost two-year experiences in operation of the two-stage process have been presented in this paper. The results showed that a proper adjustment of dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration in the bulk liquid and a pH value drop in the partial nitritation reactor is essential to obtain the ammonium-to-nitrite ratio (NAR) in the effluent close to 1.3 as required for the Anammox process. It took four months to recover the Anammox bacteria activity after NO2-N inhibition.
Phosphorus recovery with acid and base from inorganic sewage sludge residues
Authors: Levlin E.
Published: March 2020

Phosphate recovery from sludge incineration ash and sludge residues from Super Critical Water Oxidation, SCWO through leaching with acid HCl and base NaOH was studied. Leaching with base gives a selective dissolution of phosphorus but a low degree of recovery compared to leaching with acid. The high per cent of leached phosphorus compared to leached metals at leaching with acid, and the lower cost for acid makes leaching with acid less expensive. The cost for HCl is estimated to 0.32 Euro/kg P and upward. Since calcium may bind phosphorus at leaching with base, a two-step process was tested. A first leaching step with acid at pH-level 4 to dissolve calcium was followed by a second leaching step with base. Two-step leaching gave more leaching of phosphate, however, not as high as for leaching with acid. The cost for chemicals for two-step leaching was estimated to 1.2 Euro/kg P and upward.
Use of sludge on arable land for food production - a current project at some Swedish wastewater treatment plants (The ReVAQ-project)
Authors: Hugmark Peter
Published: March 2020

The project is driven by eight wastewater treatment plants (wtp:s) and lead by a governing group with representatives from the Farmers Association, Food Industry, Perishables Trade, the Swedish Nature Conservation Society, Swedish Water and the participating wtp:s. An independent inspector is engaged to check that the wtp:s really do what they have undertaken.

The principal aim of the project is to investigate if sludge from municipality wtp:s can be so clean of pollutants with regard to possible environmental disturbances that it can be used on arable land for food production in the long run. Another important aim, and at the same time a very important goal, is to make a solid and trusting co-operation between the participating interests.

So far the experiences from the project are very good. The work in the governing group appears to function very well and in a trustful way. The wtp:s taking part in the project have so far passed the inspections well enough to be approved for continuous participation. And not to forget, the sludge quality has gone on to improve.
Development of a Guideline for Sewer Operation and Maintenance in Austria
Authors: Gangl G. , Ertl T. , Kretschmer F. , Kainz H. , Haberl R.
Published: March 2020

Regarding the average age of sewers in Austria, rehabilitation becomes more and more important. In Austria so far no guideline for sewer maintenance and rehabilitation strategies exists. The paper reports about the preparation for developing a guideline to raise the working quality of several branches involved in sewer maintenance like e. g. high pressure jetting, CCTV-inspection together with the development of standardised tender documents. A Pilot-Study was financed by the ministry of environment and the regional government of Styria to develop in several theoretical workshops and practical implementations a guideline for sewer operation and maintenance. With 4 operators the project has been carried out to test the proposed instructions described in the guideline which will be revised for an Austrian-wide application.
Linking of 2D and Pipe hydraulic models at fine spatial scales
Authors: Carr R.S. , Smith G.P.
Published: March 2020

Linking of two-dimensional overland flow hydraulic models with one-dimensional storm water pipe models at very fine resolution is becoming a standard approach for urban flood investigations. This paper describes the application of such an approach to a variety of small, complex urbanised catchments in Australia and New Zealand. A benefit of this approach is that previously hidden information in terms of secondary flow paths and cross-flows become apparent, an outcome that is not possible with traditional 1D modelling tools. Generation of flood risk mapping is much simpler through the use of direct GIS interfaces to the model result files, making the modelling and presentation process much more transparent. The paper will describe the application of the models, the calibration approach and some specialised modelling techniques when working at such fine spatial resolution in urban environments.
Aspects of Radar Rainfall Forecasts and their Effectiveness for Real Time Control -The Example of the Sewer System of the City of Vienna
Authors: Krämer Stefan , Fuchs Lothar , Verworn Hans-Reinhard
Published: March 2020

This paper describes the application of a radar rainfall forecast model in combination with a hydrodynamic runoff model to predict flows is a sewer system. The results for three events of different type of rainfall are assessed on both the rainfall side and the runoff side with respect to their effectiveness for real time control. A quantification of the forecast error depending on the lead time is done using an error component analysis based on the mean squared error of the areal catchment rainfall. The benefit of flow forecasting is clearly demonstrated.
Supporting the choice, siting and evaluation of sustainable drainage systems in new urban developments
Authors: Makropoulos C. , Liu S. , Natsis K. , Butler D. , Memon F. A.
Published: March 2020

The work presented here forms part of the ongoing WaND research initiative in the UK aiming towards the implementation of sustainability principles in the planning of new urban developments. The paper describes the development of a decision support toolbox based on soft computing that assists the selection of promising sustainable drainage systems (SUDS), and their optimal siting within the context of new urban developments, through the creation of spatially variable suitability maps. It is suggested that the decision support toolbox, which includes the tools presented here as well as other tools developed within WaND can assist engineers and developers to take into account engineering, environmental and socio-economic characteristics and constraints in the design of more sustainable "SUDS" schemes.
Large-Scale Application of Biofiltration Swale Runoff Management Practices
Authors: Lucas William C.
Published: March 2020

Retaining rainfall where it lands is a fundamental benefit of Low Impact Development (LID). The Delaware Urban Runoff Management Model (DURMM) was developed to address the benefits of LID design. DURMM explicitly addresses the benefits of impervious area disconnection as well as swale flow routing that responds to flow retardance changes. Biofiltration swales are an effective LID BMP for treating urban runoff. By adding check dams, the detention storage provided can also reduce peak rates. This presentation explores how the DURMM runoff reduction approach can be integrated with detention routing procedures to project runoff volume and peak flow reductions provided by BMP facilities. This approach has been applied to a 1,200 unit project on 360 hectares located in Delaware, USA. Over 5 km of biofiltration swales have been designed, many of which have stone check dams placed every 30 to 35 meters to provide detention storage. The engineering involved in the design of such facilities uses hydrologic modeling based upon TR-20 routines, as adapted by the DURMM model. The hydraulic approach includes routing of flows through the check dams. This presentation summarizes the hydrological network, presents the hydrologic responses, along with selected hydrographs to demonstrate the potential of design approach.
Preliminary studies of the development of a clogging prediction method for stormwater infiltration systems
Authors: Siriwardene N.R. , Deletic A. , Fletcher T.D.
Published: March 2020

Infiltration systems have become a popular approach to managing stormwater. However, a high incidence of failure due to clogging has been found in these systems. A study has thus been undertaken to develop a fundamental understanding of the clogging processes, by conducting one dimensional (1D-Rig) and two dimensional (2D-Rig) laboratory experiments, and based on this knowledge, to develop a new method for clogging prediction. So far, constant and fluctuating stormwater level flow regimes in the systems have been studied. This paper presents the methods and compares the results of 1D and 2D rig constant water level experiments. It was found that a clogging layer was formed at the interface between the filter and underlying soil, irrespective of sediment distribution within the filter. It was also found that the very fine sediments were enough to clog the system.
Monitoring efficiency of urban stormwater treatment devices: discrete-sampling vs. diffusive gradient in a thin film technique
Authors: Trowsdale S. A. , Arnold G. C.
Published: March 2020

Monitoring the hydrochemical efficiency of urban stormwater treatment devices is not straightforward as the traditional, automated, discrete-sample approach is time-consuming and logistically expensive. An alternative monitoring technique, diffusive gradient in thin film (DGT), was tested alongside the traditional approach at an urban stormwater treatment basin. Pb concentrations in runoff were low to negligible, and the basin had little measurable effect. Using log-transformed Event Mean Concentration (EMC) the basin was calculated to reduce the Cu and Zn concentration by 39 and 51% respectively, but high variability meant there was no statistical evidence of a reduction. The DGT measurements not only suggested a higher efficiency for the basin (77% for Cu, 72% for Zn), but were also less variable providing confidence in the result. Simple modelling implied that the concentration in baseflow fluctuated. The cost effectiveness and low variability of the DGT technique may make it suited to the monitoring requirements of the stormwater industry.
Vertical distribution and speciation of heavy metals in stormwater infiltration facilities: possible heavy metals release to groundwater
Authors: Aryal R. K. , Furumai H. , Nakajima F. , Hossain M. A.
Published: March 2020

The infiltration inlet facilities on the side of the road along with the sewage system have been constructed two decades ago in highly urbanized residential area in Tokyo. Possible release of heavy metals from the infiltration inlet was studied by analyzing sediment samples in different vertical depth. Seven heavy metals (Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb) were measured. The heavy metal contents in sediment decreased with depth. The low content of heavy metals at the bottom sediment compared to the top indicated possible release of heavy metals from the inlet sediment. The heavy metals speciation study showed that the order of the extractability/mobility in the sediment in acid exchangeable fraction was Zn and Mn>Co>Ni>Cu >Cr and Pb. The mobility order in road dust also followed the similar pattern. In reducible fraction (metal oxide bound) Pb was the most mobile in the sediment while the other metals mobility order was not similar. In oxidizable fraction (organic and sulfide bound) the order was different for the sediment and road dusts. The residual fraction contained 18 to 83% heavy metals. The presence of heavy metals in acid exchangeable, reducible and oxidizable fractions indicated a future possibility of their release to the underlying soil and the groundwater.
Advancing sustainable water futures for Melbourne: analysis of expert opinion on structural and non-structural approaches
Authors: Coppock M.H. , Brown R.R.
Published: March 2020

This social research project investigated industry leader perspectives and decision values in relation to promoting management techniques to address sustainable water supply issues across urban regions. The conditions under which structural (engineering) and non-structural (behavioural change) solutions are prioritised and implemented was investigated through semi-structured interviews of senior representatives from water authorities, State Government agencies, local government, developers, consultants and academics across Metropolitan Melbourne. In theory, a mixed structural and non-structural approach is typically advocated for advancing sustainable urban water futures. However, there is a lack of knowledge of the decision criteria of how to select and systematically integrate these approaches. The results reveal that industry leaders would not promote non-structural solutions without the primary support of a structural solution. Largely due to lack of certainty about social receptivity, this was perceived as presenting a substantially higher risk to achieving a sustained reduction in potable water demand. Therefore, structural approaches were viewed as much easier to implement, monitor and enable reliable outcomes. This evidence strongly suggests that without social research directed at quantifying both the uncertainties and outcomes of non-structural solutions, it is unlikely that industry leaders will be in a position to effectively promote and resource their implementation as an independent initiative.
Use of a mathematical optimisation procedure for model calibration and enhancement of nitrogen removal in high-load systems
Authors: Koncsos L. , Melicz Z.
Published: March 2020

A mathematical optimisation method utilising the BLIND algorithm was used for model calibration and subsequent simulations on an ASM No.1. based platform. The calibration of model parameters was fulfilled with the use of operational data of a large wastewater treatment plant (of 80000 m3·d-1 capacity) owing a high-load activated sludge stage (sludge age of 1.8-2.5 d) with a subsequent nutrient removal biofiltration system. The calibrated model was applied for the optimisation of the multi-point addition of nitrifying biomass (i.e. step-seeding) and air supply in the high load system that has a bioreactor with plug flow characteristics. Results of model simulation showed, that with addition of nitrifyers in three points may enhance nitrification by about 9% comparing to the single point addition at the head of the reactor. Nitrogen removal can be further increased by about 8% with optimising air supply along the reactor length. Results showed, that the step-seeding concept may convey a potential in nitrogen removal enhancement in combined systems with separate nitrification/denitrification units, since optimised addition of the biomass can be easily performed.
Biological Nutrient Removal - Requirements and Reality in Two Case Studies
Authors: Teichgräber B. , Jagemann P.
Published: March 2020

As key projects within the rehabilitation of the rivers Emscher and Seseke, EMSCHERGENOSSENSCHAFT and LIPPEVERBAND constructed new WWTPs in Bottrop (1995) and Kamen-Koernebach (1998), which operate with biological nutrient removal using cascade nitrification/denitrification and a UCT scheme for biologically enhanced phosphorus removal. During the 15 years after the design, the load conditions, operational parameters and material costs (chemicals, electric power) changed. Still, the basic system decisions proved to be reliable. Anaerobic tank volumes also reduce the total nitrogen effluents. Investments in separate reject water treatment from sludge dewatering could be postponed by at least 15 years.
Plant performance of an Sequencing Batch Reactor in Poland, operated with high Chromium load, reaching advanced nutrient removal
Authors: Morling S.
Published: March 2020

This paper presents performance experiences from the operation of a large SBR facility in Nowy Targ, Poland. The plant has been in operation since 1995, and a number of investigations have contributed to the evaluation of the operating conditions at the Nowy Targ plant. The plant was designed for treating municipal and industrial wastewater from about 150,000 person equivalents. The plant receives chromium rich wastewater from almost 400 small and medium-sized tanneries in the area. Although the Cr concentration sometimes exceeds 20 ppm in the combined incoming wastewater, the nutrient removal as well as organic removal has proven to be very good. The possible effect of Cr acting as a precipitant for phosphorus is also addressed. The influence of water temperature on the nitrogen performance is clearly demonstrated by the results. The prevailing low water temperature has affected but not inhibited the nitrogen removal. The phosphorus removal as found in this investigation suggests an advanced biological removal; however the impact of a possible precipitation by Cr is addressed.
El aprendizaje cooperativo por proyectos: una aportación a la didáctica de la música en la educación universitaria de magisterio en el grado de infantil
Authors: Botella-Nicolás Ana María , Adell-Valero José Rafael
Published: March 2020

El artículo muestra una investigación sobre la didáctica de la música, realizada de manera experimental con alumnado de enseñanza superior universitaria de Educación Infantil, mediante el aprendizaje con el Método Cooperativo por Proyectos. La eficacia del Método, se ha comprobado mediante dos grupos de alumnos: uno al que se impartieron los contenidos con el citado Método, y otro a los que se les asignaron los mismos contenidos mediante la Clase Magistral. El resultado de la experiencia se mide con pruebas objetivas: un pretest y un postest. También se efectúa una encuesta de percepción con objeto de conocer las apreciaciones subjetivas del alumnado, alrededor de la experiencia vivida. Todas estas pruebas avalan la idoneidad del Método Cooperativo por Proyectos en cuanto a la asimilación de contenidos, objetivos y didáctica, así como su efectividad respecto a la cooperación grupal, activa y sensible y la socialización.
¿Qué hace que una investigación deba ser considerada transdisciplinaria?
Authors: Vélez-Cardona Waldemiro , Durán-Landazábal Gloria M. , López-Correa Aníbal Y.
Published: March 2020

En este artículo se destaca la importancia de la investigación transdisciplinaria (ITD) para la comprensión y solución de los apremiantes problemas contemporáneos. Con el propósito de promover una mayor comprensión de esta, se presentan 16 características que, a juicio de los autores, la distinguen de otros abordajes de la investigación. Estas características surgieron al utilizar una metodología de análisis de contenido con la literatura consultada. Finalmente, se aclara que la ITD no es contraria a la investigación disciplinaria, sino más bien complementaria de ella.
Direct Cardiac Reprogramming with Engineered miRNA Scaffolds
Authors: Muniyandi Priyadharshni , Maekawa Toru , Hanajiri Tatsuro , Palaninathan Vivekanandan
Published: March 2020

Ischemic heart disease is a predominant cause of death worldwide. The loss or death of cardiomyocytes
due to restricted blood flow often results in a cardiac injury. Myofibroblasts replace these injured cardiomyocytes
to preserve structural integrity. However, the depleted cardiomyocytes lead to cardiac dysfunction such
as pathological cardiac dilation, reduced cardiac contraction, and fibrosis. Repair and regeneration of myocardium
are the best possible therapy for end-stage heart failure patients because the current cardiomyocytes restoration
therapies are limited to heart transplantation only. The emergence of interests to directly reprogram a mammalian
heart with minimal regenerative capacity holds a promising future in the field of cardiovascular regenerative
medicine. Repair and regeneration become the two crucial factors in the field of cardiovascular regenerative
medicine since heart muscles have no substitutes, like heart valves or blood vessels. Cardiac regeneration includes
strategies to reprogram with diverse factors like small molecules, genetic and epigenetic regulators. However,
there are some constraints like low efficacy, immunogenic problems, and unsafe delivery systems that pose
a daunting challenge in human trial translations. Hence, there is a need for a holistic nanoscale approach in regulating
cell fate effectively and efficiently with a safer delivery and a suitable microenvironment that mimics the
extracellular matrix. In this review, we have discussed the current state-of-the-art techniques, challenges in direct
reprogramming of fibroblasts to cardiac muscle, and prospects of biomaterials in miRNA delivery and cardiac
regeneration predominantly during the past decade (2008-2019).
Bioactive Peptides and Hydrolysates from Egg Proteins as a New Tool for Protection Against Cardiovascular Problems
Authors: Miguel Marta , Vassallo Dalton V. , Wiggers Giulia A.
Published: March 2020

The aim of the present work is to review the potential beneficial effects of dietary supplementation
with bioactive egg protein hydrolysates or peptides on cardiometabolic changes associated with oxidative stress.
The development of nutritionally improved food products designed to address specific health concerns is of particular
interest because many bioactive food compounds can be potentially useful in various physiological functions
such as for reducing oxidative stress. The results presented suggest that egg hydrolysates or derived peptides
could be included in the diet to prevent and/or reduce some cardiometabolic complications associated with oxidative
stress-related diseases.
Tripterine: A Potential Anti-Allergic Compound
Authors: Zhu Bao-Jun , Qian Ze-Quan , Yang Hui-Run , Li Ru-Xia
Published: March 2020

Background:

Tripterine (TRI), an active monomer in Tripterygium wilfordii, has significant
pharmacological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive and anti-tumor activities.
TRI may be used to treat allergic diseases because of its characteristics of immunosuppression.

Objective:

This study aims to explore the anti-allergic effect of TRI.

Methods:

It was tested in vivo and in vitro in this study.

Results :

The results showed that TRI could significantly inhibit histamine release from rat peritoneal
mast cells; the inhibitory effect of TRI on histamine release was stronger than that of other known histamine
inhibitors such as disodium cromoglyceride. TRI also significantly inhibited systemic anaphylactic
shock induced by compound 48/80 and skin allergy induced by IgE, and inhibited the expression
of inflammatory factors secreted by Human Mast Cells (HMC-1) induced by Phorbol 12-Myristate 13-
Acetate (PMA) and calcium carrier A23187. In the animal model of allergic rhinitis induced by Ovalbumin
(OA), the scores of friction, histamine, IgE, inflammatory factors and inflammatory cells decreased
after TRI was administered orally or nasally.

Conclusions :

TRI, as an active immunoregulatory factor, has great potential in the treatment of mast
cell-mediated allergic diseases.
Prospects and Perspectives for WISP1 (CCN4) in Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Maiese Kenneth
Published: March 2020

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) continues to increase throughout the world.
In the United States (US) alone, approximately ten percent of the population is diagnosed with DM
and another thirty-five percent of the population is considered to have prediabetes. Yet, current
treatments for DM are limited and can fail to block the progression of multi-organ failure over
time. Wnt1 inducible signaling pathway protein 1 (WISP1), also known as CCN4, is a matricellular
protein that offers exceptional promise to address underlying disease progression and develop
innovative therapies for DM. WISP1 holds an intricate relationship with other primary pathways
of metabolism that include protein kinase B (Akt), mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), AMP
activated protein kinase (AMPK), silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 1 (Saccharomyces
cerevisiae) (SIRT1), and mammalian forkhead transcription factors (FoxOs). WISP1
is an exciting prospect to foster vascular as well as neuronal cellular protection and regeneration,
control cellular senescence, block oxidative stress injury, and maintain glucose homeostasis.
However, under some scenarios WISP1 can promote tumorigenesis, lead to obesity progression
with adipocyte hyperplasia, foster fibrotic hepatic disease, and lead to dysregulated inflammation
with the progression of DM. Given these considerations, it is imperative to further elucidate the
complex relationship WISP1 holds with other vital metabolic pathways to successfully develop
WISP1 as a clinically effective target for DM and metabolic disorders.
An Efficient Protocol for the Synthesis, Biological Screening and Molecular Docking Studies of 3,4-Dihydropyrimidine-2-one/thione Derivatives
Authors: Mughal Ehsan Ullah , Farooq Hafiz Umar , Sadiq Amina , Rafique Hummera , Sumrra Sajjad Hussain , Zafar Muhammad Naveed , Fatima Nighat , Muhammad Syed Aun , Manan Abdul , Javed Chaudhary Omer , Tayyab Muhammad
Published: March 2020

Introduction:

Heterocyclic compounds are vital to life, since they constitute the most
interesting part of the pharmacologically active drugs. Dihydropyrimidine-2-one/thione (DHPM) as
the heterocyclic nucleus is the basic part of the most natural as well as synthetic drugs. Synthesis of
new derivatives of DHPM and screening their pharmacological potential appear to be an important
goal.

Methodology:

In this study, we have synthesized 15 derivatives of 3,4-dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-
ones/thiones through simple one-step synthetic method comprising one-pot condensation of variously
substituted benzaldehydes, urea/thiourea and ethyl acetoacetate using ammonium chloride in
methanol as well as under solvent-free conditions. In comparison, the former methodology was
proved more efficient, convenient and gave higher yields. Moreover, those compounds were screened
for their potential against bacterial strains (S. aureus and E. coli) and fungal strains (C. albicans and
C. parapsilosis).

Results and Discussion:

The experimental results revealed that the synthesized compounds are more
active against C. albicans fungus as compared to other tested microbes. Amongst all the synthesized
derivatives, compound 3 showed significant non-competitive potential antifungal activity in vitro
antimicrobial assay. Theoretically, molecular docking studies showed that these compounds can bind
effectively to oxidoreductase enzyme of E. coli and CYP-51 oxidoreductase of C. albicans.

Conclusion:

Herein, we report improved and high yield reaction conditions for the synthesis of
biologically active dihydropyrimidine-2-one, and-thione derivatives. Remarkably, most of the
synthesized compounds demonstrated moderate to very good antifungal activity in comparison to the
antibacterial activity.