bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of titanium tetrachloride and titanium sulfate flocculation in wastewater treatment
Authors: Okour Y. , Shon H. K. , El Saliby I.
Published: June 2009

Flocculation with titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4) and titanium sulfate (Ti(SO4)2) was investigated in terms of different coagulant doses, pH, turbidity, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), UV-254, colour, zeta potential, particle size and molecular weight distribution. The two coagulants were compared with the commonly used coagulants such as ferric chloride (FeCl3) and aluminium sulfate (Al2(SO4)3). Titanium tetrachloride showed the highest turbidity removal, while titanium sulfate showed the highest reduction of UV-254 and colour at all pH values. The four coagulants were found to have similar organic removal up to 60–67% and resulted in similar organic removal in terms of various MW ranges. The decantability of the settled flocs was very high for titanium tetrachloride, titanium sulfate and ferric chloride compared with aluminium sulfate. The dominating coagulation mechanisms for titanium tetrachloride and titanium sulfate are still to be studied, since different precipitation reactions might take place at different pH even without flocculant addition. Titanium tetrachloride and titanium sulfate were found as effective new coagulants in wastewater treatment not only in terms of organic matter removal, but also in sludge reduction through the production of titanium dioxide.
Effect of environmental flow management on river water quality: a case study at Yeongsan River, Korea
Authors: Cha Sung Min , Ki Seo Jin , Cho Kyung Hwa , Choi Heechul , Kim Joon Ha
Published: June 2009

This paper describes a management scheme to control river water quality using additional water discharges from upstream dams, which results in an increase environmental flow (EF) followed by an enhancement of water quality in a target river. To suggest a creditable management plan among a suite of ideal scenarios, the monthly averaged water quality monitoring data from 2001 to 2006 at the Yeongsan (YS) River, Korea were investigated with respect to seasonal variation and spatial distribution. From the analysis, it was found that while biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) level in the YS River was extremely high during the dry/drought season (April, May, and June; AMJ), the level was subsequently decreased during the monsoon season (July, August, and September; JAS) due mainly to the dilution effect of rainfall. To improve the water quality in AMJ, we here suggested a scenario of increasing EF using surplus water discharges from upstream dams, which was examined by one dimensional riverine water quality model, QUAL2E model. Simulation result showed that additional discharge from the upstream dams could lead, on average, to a 36% of water quality improvement in mainstream with respect to BOD5. Model coefficients were validated by comparing the six year monitoring data to minimize a sum of squares error, and showed a good agreement with the observed data. Overall, the methodology developed in this paper appears to be quite clear and straightforward, and thus, can be applied to a wide range of the flow managements or water quality controls in a stream with artificial structures.
Antibiotic resistant bacteria in wastewater processed by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago system
Authors: Rijal G. K. , Zmuda J. T. , Gore R. , Abedin Z. , Granato T. , Kollias L. , Lanyon R.
Published: June 2009

The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (District) initiated a research study to determine the total numbers and percentages of antibiotic resistant fecal coliform (FC) bacteria in raw sewage (RS) entering and final effluents (FE) discharged from its seven Water Reclamation Plants (WRPs). The density of FC was determined on m-FC agar containing ampicillin (ampR-16 μg/ml), gentamycin (genR-8 μg/ml), tetracycline (tetR-8 μg/ml), or all three antibiotics. The study was primarily undertaken to determine whether secondary sewage treatment at the District WRPs adequately reduces the numbers and percentages of FCampR, FCtetR, FCgenR, FCamp/tet/genR in the FE. The numbers of ampR, tetR, genR, and amp/tet/genR FC observed in RS ranged from 2.0 × 105 to 1.1 × 107, 9.5 × 104 to 2.2 × 106, 95 to 1.5 × 104 and 90 to 9.5 × 103 per 100 mL, respectively. Secondary sewage treatment without disinfection was shown to reduce the number of antibiotic resistant FC by two-three orders of magnitude. The numbers of FCampR, FCtetR, FCgenR, and FCamp/tet/genR observed in non-disinfected FE ranged from 2.0 × 102 to 6.4 × 103, 2.2 × 102 to 4.1 × 103, 9 to <20 and 9 to <20 per 100 mL, respectively. The relative percentages of antibiotic resistant FC observed in FE followed the same trend observed in RS: FCampR > FCtetR > FCgenR > FCamp/tet/genR. Only one FCamp/tet/genR bacteria was found in this study indicating that multiple-antibiotic resistant FC was virtually eliminated by secondary sewage treatment. The results of multivariate regression analysis showed that the percentages of antibiotic resistant FC in the FE from all seven District WRPs were lower than the percentages of these organisms in RS (p<0.01). These results support the conclusion that secondary sewage treatment in the District effectively reduces the number of antibiotic resistant FC and that the environments of the District's seven WRPs are not conducive to the propagation or survival of antibiotic resistant fecal coliform bacteria.
Developing a multipoint titration method with a variable dose implementation for anaerobic digestion monitoring
Authors: Salonen K. , Leisola M. , Eerikäinen T.
Published: June 2009

Determination of metabolites from an anaerobic digester with an acid base titration is considered as superior method for many reasons. This paper describes a practical at line compatible multipoint titration method. The titration procedure was improved by speed and data quality. A simple and novel control algorithm for estimating a variable titrant dose was derived for this purpose. This non-linear PI-controller like algorithm does not require any preliminary information from sample. Performance of this controller is superior compared to traditional linear PI-controllers. In addition, simplification for presenting polyprotic acids as a sum of multiple monoprotic acids is introduced along with a mathematical error examination. A method for inclusion of the ionic strength effect with stepwise iteration is shown. The titration model is presented with matrix notations enabling simple computation of all concentration estimates. All methods and algorithms are illustrated in the experimental part. A linear correlation better than 0.999 was obtained for both acetate and phosphate used as model compounds with slopes of 0.98 and 1.00 and average standard deviations of 0.6% and 0.8%, respectively. Furthermore, insensitivity of the presented method for overlapping buffer capacity curves was shown.
Stochastic approach to the derivation of emission limits for wastewater treatment plants
Authors: Stransky D. , Kabelkova I. , Bares V.
Published: June 2009

Stochastic approach to the derivation of WWTP emission limits meeting probabilistically defined environmental quality standards (EQS) is presented. The stochastic model is based on the mixing equation with input data defined by probability density distributions and solved by Monte Carlo simulations. The approach was tested on a study catchment for total phosphorus (Ptot). The model assumes input variables independency which was proved for the dry-weather situation. Discharges and Ptot concentrations both in the study creek and WWTP effluent follow log-normal probability distribution. Variation coefficients of Ptot concentrations differ considerably along the stream (cv=0.415–0.884). The selected value of the variation coefficient (cv=0.420) affects the derived mean value (Cmean=0.13 mg/l) of the Ptot EQS (C90=0.2 mg/l). Even after supposed improvement of water quality upstream of the WWTP to the level of the Ptot EQS, the WWTP emission limits calculated would be lower than the values of the best available technology (BAT). Thus, minimum dilution ratios for the meaningful application of the combined approach to the derivation of Ptot emission limits for Czech streams are discussed.
Preparation of activated carbons from wet activated sludge by direct chemical activation
Authors: Wang X. , Zhu N. , Xu J. , Yin B.
Published: June 2009

An improved method for preparing activated carbons from wet waste activated sludge (WAS) by direct chemical activation was studied in this paper. The effects of processing parameters on iodine adsorption capacity of the product were investigated. Results show that sludge-based activated carbon prepared with KOH had a larger iodine value than those activated with ZnCl2 and KCl. The maximum iodine value was observed at the KOH concentration of 0.50 M. Increasing the impregnation time from 10 to 20 h resulted in a 20% increase in the iodine value. The highest iodine value was obtained at the activation temperature of 600°C and holding time of 1 h. Sludge water content had insignificant effects on the iodine value of products. Raw WAS with a water content of 93.2% can be converted into an activated carbon with a high specific surface area of 737.6 m2 g−1 and iodine value of 864.8 mgg−1 under optimum experimental conditions. Other physical properties such as total pore volume, micropore volume and mean pore diameter of the product were also reported and compared with those of commercial activated carbon.
Two-phase flow modelling for oxygen renewal estimation in vertical flow filter: luxury or necessity?
Authors: Forquet N. , Wanko A. , Molle P. , Mosé R. , Sadowski A.-G.
Published: June 2009

Scientists and practitioners exhibit an increasing interest on effluent transfer and degradation modelling in Vertical Flow Sand Filters (VFSF) and Vertical Flow Constructed Wetland (VFCW). Modelling software used to this purpose is mainly monophasic: in the unsaturated zone, only water flow is taken into account and air phase influence is assumed to be negligible. In hydrology, many studies have point out the limitations of this assumption in order to quantify air phase movement but little has been done in the modelling of vertical flow filter. Despite its complexity, two-phase flow modelling allows to overcome these difficulties. In this work, we describe the complex air and water flows in the particular case of vertical flow filter fed intermittently using both numerical and experimental results. Complete different behaviour is observed depending on ponding occurs or not. If it does, flow is clearly influenced by air entrapment which is responsible of a reduction of the infiltration speed and of the drainage of a part of the water kept at the interface between the sand and the drainage layer. Finally, we study the dependency of oxygen income by convection on hydraulic load and compare numerical results with experimental results obtained on oxygen consumption.
Indole degrading of ammonia oxidizing bacteria isolated from swine wastewater treatment system
Authors: Li Ping , Tong Lei , Liu Kun , Wang Yanhong , Wang Yanxin
Published: June 2009

Three new strains named LPA11, LPB11 and LPC24 were isolated to investigate the patterns of indole degradation and ammonia oxidation in swine wastewater from different parts of a swine wastewater treatment system by the direct spreading plate method. These three isolates were all identified as Pseudomonas putida based on 16S-rDNA gene sequences, main physiological and biochemical analysis. They were capable of decomposing 1.0 mM indole completely in 10, 16 and 18 days respectively. According to the results of HPLC and GC/MS, the possible pathway for the degradation was via oxindole, isatin and anthranilic acid. The three bacteria were capable of oxidizing ammonia, and the strains LPA11 and LPC24 were capable of effectively reducing nitrate and nitrite.
Model driven engineering of a tableau algorithm for description logics
Authors: Krdzavac Nenad , Gasevic Dragan , Devedzic Vladan
Published: June 2009

This paper presents a method for implementing tableau algorithm for description logics (DLs). The architectures of the present DL reasoners such as RACER or FaCT were developed using programming languages as Java or LISP. The implementations are not based on original definition of the abstract syntax, but they require transformation of abstract syntax into concrete syntax implementation languages use. In order to address these issues, we propose the use of model-driven engineering principles for the development of a DL reasoner where a definition of a DL abstract syntax is provided by means of metamodels. The presented approach is based on the use of a MOF-based model repository and QVT-like transformations, which transform models compliant to the DL metamodel taken from the OMG's Ontology Definition Metamodel specification into models compliant to the Tableau metamodel defined in this paper. .
Scoring models: Towards the more realistic approach
Authors: Radojevic Gordana , Suknovic Milija
Published: June 2009

Financial decision-making is one of the most current issues of modern financial management. Financial decision-making is an area where decision support systems, knowledge-based decision support systems, and intelligent decision support systems are successfully applied. In consequence of the importance and complexity of this problem area a large number of methods of support to financial decisionmaking was developed. This paper presents the most important features of two decision support systems, a classical system and a system based on fuzzy logic. The performances of these two models are compared and the advantages achieved through the introduction of fuzzy concepts into the classical decision support systems are determined.
Communicating information systems goals: A case in internet banking security
Authors: Koskosas Ioannis
Published: June 2009

A large part of information systems (IS) security approaches is technical in nature with less consideration on people and organizational issues. The research presented in this paper adopts a broader perspective and presents an understanding of IS security in terms of a social and organizational perspective. In doing so, it uses the communication of risk messages among the members of IT groups in setting Internet banking goals in order to identify any weaknesses in security management procedures. The novel approach of this investigation is that explores and presents the issues of risk communication and goal setting in Internet banking security through indepth interviews within three case studies. That said, it promotes an interdisciplinary and inter-organizational theory which fosters a new dialog that transcends security industry specific contexts as opposed to other studies. Interview results suggest how an effective setting of Internet banking security goals can be achieved through specific considerations for improving the communication of security messages. The research contributes to interpretive information systems with the study of risk communication and goal setting in an Internet banking security context.
Web4WeB e-collaboration tools
Authors: Janev Valentina , Dudukovic Jovan , Jovanovic Jelena , Vranes Sanja
Published: June 2009

This paper introduces and compares two innovative tools aimed at enhancing the collaborative work of the researchers and professionals from the West Balkan countries in the Semantic Web field. The first tool, the Alfresco system, is a version controlled content repository designed in REST architectural style and based on a set of document management and collaboration services. The Alfresco workflow engine enables organization and automation of the process activities. The second tool, the Semantic MediaWiki portal, is a semantic collaboration tool and knowledge management system that leverages the latest Semantic Web (SW) technologies and standards. By using semantic annotations, it enriches the Web contents with semantics and makes the knowledge explicit. Thus, it provides structured access to information and accurate and precise knowledge retrieval. This paper discusses the customization of these tools and their utilization in the Web Technologies for West Balkan countries (Web4WeB) project.
Co-existence performance evaluation of wireless computer networks in a typical office environment
Authors: Miaoudakis Andreas , Stratakis Dimitrios , Antonidakis Emmanouel , Zaharopoulos Vassilios , Stojanovic Radovan
Published: June 2009

The Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) are often used as a wireless extension to the typical office network infrastructure providing mobility to the users. In addition Wireless Personal Area Networks (WPANs) serve interconnection to computer and mobile phone peripherals as headsets, input devices, printers etc. Thus it is common that WLANs and WPANs have to operate in the same area. IEEE 802.11b/g is the most popular WLAN technology operating in the 2.4GHz Industrial Medical and Scientific (ISM) band. On the other hand Bluetooth (BT) is the technology often used to support WPANs. As BT also uses the 2.4GHz ISM band, there an issue of interference between WLANs and PANs. In this work the performance degradation in Wireless Local Area Networks and Wireless Local Area Networks due to coexistence is examined by real measurements. Both 802.11 to 802.11 and 802.11 to Bluetooth coexistence is addressed.
Silver(I)-complexes with an itaconic acid-based hydrogel
Authors: Micic Maja , Tomic Simonida , Filipovic Jovanka , Suljovrujic Edin
Published: June 2009

Silver(I) itaconic acid-based hydrogel complexes were synthesized and characterized in order to examine the potential use of these systems; FTIR, AFM, in vitro fluid-uptake, metal sorption and antibacterial activity assay measurements were used for the characterization. Metal (silver(I)) ion uptaken by IA-based hydrogels was determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The coordination sites for metal ions were identified and the stability in in vitro condition was determined. Incorporation of silver(I) ions into hydrogels and the influence of these ions on the diffusion properties of hydrogels were analyzed and discussed, too; it was found that the itaconic acid moiety in hydrogels is the determining factor which influences metal ion binding and therefore fluid uptake inside the polymeric network. Furthermore, silver(I) itaconic acid-based hydrogel showed a satisfactory antibacterial activity. The most advanced feature of these materials is that the silver ions embedded throughout the networks leaches out via controlled manner with time in aqueous media. Therefore, the ions escape from the swollen networks with time and interact with the bacteria. Because of a good dispersion of silver ions in Ag(I)-P(HEMA/2IA) hydrogel complex, we have evaluated the antibacterial activity for this sample. As expected, the number of colonies grown surrounding the Ag(I)- -P(HEMA/2IA) hydrogel complex was found to be almost nil, whereas the pure P(HEMA/2IA) hydrogel did not show any effect on Escherichia coli. Therefore, we conclude that the Ag(I)-P(HEMA/IA) hydrogel complexes are excellent antibacterial materials. Due to these facts, the silver ion IA- -based hydrogel complexes reported here might be used as smart materials in the range of biomedical applications, including drug-delivery devices, biosensors, wound healing dressings, tissue reconstruction and organ repair.
Interactions of fast ions with graphene
Authors: Radovic Ivan , Hadzievski Ljupco , Bibic Natasa , Miskovic Zoran
Published: June 2009

In this work, we study the interactions of fast ions with graphene describing the excitations of the electron gas in graphene by a two-dimensional (2D) hydrodynamic model (one-fluid and two-fluid model). The two-fluid model reproduces qualitatively the split of plasmon dispersions into the low-frequency p-electron branch and the high-frequency s+p-electron branch. We calculate the stopping force and the image force on an ion moving parallel to a single sheet of graphene. Numerical results show that the presence of the low-energy, quasiacoustic plasmon in the two-fluid model gives rise to resonant features at low velocities around its 'acoustic' speed, which are not seen in the one-fluid model. The two models give virtually indistinguishable results for both forces at high speeds. Marked differences between the two models in the values of image forces at low speeds can be seen. Numerical results show that the magnitudes of both the stopping and image forces exhibit typical resonance-shaped velocity dependencies, with the peak positions moving to higher velocities for higher distances and with the overall magnitudes decreasing sharply with increasing distances. The second order corrections are found to be small, as expected for fast ions outside the electron gas, but their relative magnitudes should be easily discernible in experiments on ion grazing scattering from graphene. One notices effects which are similar to those obtained earlier for proton channeling in carbon nanotubes.
Investigation of hydrogen absorption kinetics on intermetallic compounds Hf2Ni, Hf2Co and Hf2Fe
Authors: Kumric Sandra , Stojic Dragica , Cekic Bozidar
Published: June 2009

Polycrystalline intermetallics Hf2Ni, Hf2Co and Hf2Fe are investigated as the hydrogen absorbers in the temperature range 348 to 823 K, under the constant hydrogen pressure of 1 bar. The absorption process was carried out in typical volumetric apparatus and H/M mole ratios together with rate constants and activation energies for hydrogen absorption reaction were determined. Achieved hydrogen absorption capacities at 573 K are: 0.60, 0.90 and 1.48 and rate constants at 573 K are: 0.38?10-3, 0.55?10-3 and 4.72?10-3 s-1 for Hf2Ni, Hf2Co and Hf2Fe respectively. Determined activation energies are: for Hf2Ni, 38.44 kJ/mol, for Hf2Co, 19.62 kJ/mol and 2.74 kJ/mol for Hf2Fe. From the obtained experimental results, it was concluded that Hf2Fe has the best hydrogen absorption ability among the examined intermetallics.
Analysis of electrical switching effects in the chalcogenide glassy semiconductor Cu1(AsSe1.4I0.2)99
Authors: Slankamenac Milos , Lukic Svetlana , Zivanov Milos
Published: June 2009

The current-voltage characteristics of the bulk metal chalcogenide glassy semiconductor Cu1(AsSe1.4I0.2)99 are obtained by Tektronix 576 Curve Tracer. It was found that this glass has current-controlled negative resistance (CCNR) and switching characteristic with memory. Experimental results have shown a strong decrease in electrical resistivity and threshold voltage due to the presence of the metallic element copper and change of ambient temperature. Also, photomicrographs of the sample surface are presented and the impact of electrical switching on forming crystalline conductive channels on the surface of the investigated amorphous semiconductor is discussed.
Electrochemical investigation of 18k gold in acidic electrolyte
Authors: Grekulovic Vesna , Rajcic-Vujasinovic Mirjana , Stevic Zoran
Published: June 2009

The results of an attempt in using cyclic voltammetry for characterization of gold, silver, copper and 18-k gold alloys by their anodic behavior in 1 mol/dm3 H2SO4 are presented in this paper. Gold alloys containing 75 mass% Au are named as 18-k gold, but it is usually three component alloy containing 75 mass% Au, 12.5 mass% Ag and 12.5 mass% Cu as the main components. Investigated alloys were obtained by melting powders of pure metals mixed in corresponding ratio, casting, cooling in air, rolling and drawing in the wire shape. To achieve the required mechanical properties, the alloys had heat-treated three times. Each alloy exhibits characteristic current peaks on voltammogram that can be used to recognize the kind of present alloying metal in gold. Also, the content of the alloying metal can be roughly estimated from the peak value of current densities.
Silver deposition on chemically treated carbon monolith
Authors: Jovanovic Zoran , Kalijadis Ana , Vukcevic Marija , Lausevic Zoran , Lausevic Mila
Published: June 2009

Carbon monolith was treated with HNO3, KOH and H2O2. Effects of these treatments on the surface functional groups and on the amount of silver deposited on the CM surface were studied by temperature programmed desorption (TPD) and atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS). As a result of chemical treatment there was an increase in the amount of surface oxygen complexes. The increase in the amount of silver deposit is proportional to the amount of surface groups that produce CO under decomposition. However, the high amount of CO groups, decomposing above 600?C, induces the smaller Ag crystallite size. Therefore, the high temperature CO evolving oxides are, most likely, the initial centers for Ag deposition.
Investigation of thermostability of Mo6S3I6 nanowires using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Todorovic Jelena , Djokic Dejan , Dohcevic-Mitrovic Zorana , Mihailovic Dragan , Popovic Zoran
Published: June 2009

The thermostability (phase stability) of Mo6S3I6 nanowires was investigated by Raman spectroscopy, varying the incident laser power (1-9 mW) or by gradual heating of the sample from room temperature to 600?C. We have noticed 18 Raman modes in the room temperature Raman spectra, which is in good agreement with the factor group analysis prediction for P1 space group. We confirmed that the vibrations of Mo6S8 clusters dominate in vibrational properties of the Mo6S3I6 nanostructure, since nanowires Raman spectra are similar to Chevrel phase Raman spectra. During the temperature treatment, it was established that in the temperature range between 300 and 400?C a new Raman mode appeares. This mode can be ascribed to molybdenum oxide (MoO3). With further temperature increase, the intensity of this mode increases, drawing a conclusion that at temperature above 300?C the phase separation takes place in this system followed by a formation of oxide layer.
Characterisation of nanodimensional structures using spectroscopic ellipsometry
Authors: Miric Milka , Radovic Marko , Gajic Rados , Dohcevic-Mitrovic Zorana , Popovic Zoran
Published: June 2009

In this paper, using spectroscopic ellipsometry we studied the optical properties of thin films, nanocrystals and carbon nanotubes in UV-VIS-NIR range. With a three-phase model, we calculated the thickness of the SiO2 film on a silicon substrate. Using the model for multilayer structure together with the Bruggeman effective medium approximation we determined the existence of roughness on a glass substrate and we calculated the thickness of that layer. We also determined the thicknesses of 12 layers, Si3N4 i SiO2 deposited alternately on a glass substrate. The dielectric function of CeO2 nanocrystal was modeled using the Tauc-Lorentz model and we calculated the value of the energy gap for this material. By analyzing the ellipsometry spectra for the carbon nanotube layer on the silicon substrate, we measured the real and imaginary part of its dielectric function.
Protective effects of fullerenol against chronic doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity and hepatotoxicity in rats with colorectal cancer
Authors: Injac Rade , Radic Natasa , Govedarica Biljana , Djordjevic Aleksandar , Strukelj Borut
Published: June 2009

Since the introduction of Doxorubicin (Dox) for the treatment of cancer in 1969, this compound has demonstrated high antitumor efficacy. Dox's use in chemotherapy has been limited largely due to its diverse toxicities, including cardiac, liver, renal, pulmonary, hematological and testicular toxicity. Various attempts have been made to reduce Dox-induced toxicity. These include dosage optimization, synthesis and use of analogues. Moreover, a number of agents have been investigated as protective agents during Dox therapy. Polyhydroxilated derivatives of fullerene, named fullerenols C60(OH)n, are being extensively studied due to their great potential as antioxidants. It is proposed that they might act as free radical scavengers in biological systems, in xenobiotics-induced oxidative stress as well as against radioactive irradiation. We have investigated the effects of fullerenol C60(OH)24 (Frl) at doses of 25, 50 and 100 mg kg-1 week (for a time-span of three weeks) on heart and liver tissue after Doxorubicin (Dox)-induced toxicity in rats with colorectal cancer. In the present study, in vivo Wistar male rat model was used to explore whether Frl could protect against Dox-induced (1.5 mg/kg/week for three weeks) chronic cardio- and hepatotoxicity and compared the effect with a well-known antioxidant, vitamin C (100 mg/kg/week for three weeks). Commercially available methods were used for blood and pathohystological analysis and for the measurement of enzyme activity (SOD, MDA, GSH, GSSH, GPx, GR, CAT, CK, LDH, ?-HBDH, AST, ALT) in serum and homogenate samples of heart and liver tissues. According to macroscopic, microscopic, hematological, biochemical, physiological, pharmacological, and pharmacokinetic results, we confirmed that, at all examined doses, Frl exhibits a protective influence on the heart and liver tissue against chronic toxicity induced by Dox.
Functionalized macroporous copolymer of glycidyl methacrylate: The type of ligand and porosity parameters influence on Cu(II) ion sorption from aqueous solutions
Authors: Sandic Zvjezdana , Nastasovic Aleksandra
Published: June 2009

The removal of heavy metals from hydro-metallurgical and other industries' wastewaters, their safe storage and possible recovery from waste- water streams is one of the greater ecological problems of modern society. Conventional methods, like precipitation, adsorption and biosorption, electrowinning, membrane separation, solvent extraction and ion exchange are often ineffective, expensive and can generate secondary pollution. On the other hand, chelating polymers, consisting of crosslinked copolymers as a solid support and functional group (ligand), are capable of selectively loading different metal ions from aqueous solutions. In the relatively simple process, the chelating copolymer is contacted with the contaminated solution, loaded with metal ions, and stripped with the appropriate eluent. Important properties of chelating polymers are high capacity, high selectivity and fast kinetics combined with mechanical stability and chemical inertness. Macroporous hydrophilic copolymers of glycidyl methacrylate and ethylene glycol dimethacrylate modified by different amines show outstanding efficiency and selectivity for the sorption of precious and heavy metals from aqueous solutions. In this study poly(GMA-co-EGDMA) copolymers were synthesized with different porosity parameters and functionalized in reactions with ethylene diamine (EDA), diethylene triamine (DETA) and triethylene tetramine (TETA). Under non-competitive conditions, in batch experiments at room temperature, the rate of sorption of Cu(II) ions from aqueous solutions and the influence of pH on it was determined for four samples of amino-functionalized poly(GMA-co-EGDMA). The sorption of Cu(II) for both amino-functionalized samples was found to be very rapid. The sorption half time, t1/2, defined as the time required to reach 50% of the total sorption capacity, was between 1 and 2 min. The maximum sorption capacity for copper (2.80 mmol/g) was obtained on SGE-10/12-deta sample. The sorption capacity of Cu(II) ions increases with increasing pH and has maximum at pH ~5. In the experimental pH range, the maximum sorption capacity of Cu(II) ions again is reached on SGE-10/12-deta. By comparing literature data and obtained results it is possible to conclude that amino-functionalized macroporous copolymers based on glycidyl methacrylate are efficient for sorption of Cu(II) ions from aqueous solutions and sorption capacity for copper mostly depends on type of amine with which the basic copolymer is functionalized.
Antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of brown algae from the Aegean sea
Authors: Demirel Zeliha , Yilmaz-Koz Ferda , Karabay-Yavasoglu Ulku , Ozdemir Guven , Sukatar Atakan
Published: June 2009

The present study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of methanol, dichloromethane and hexane extracts, as well as the essential oils of brown algae (Phaeophyta) Colpomenia sinuosa, Dictyota dichotoma, Dictyota dichotoma var. implexa, Petalonia fascia and Scytosiphon lomentaria. The essential oil of the macroalgae was obtained by steam distillation and analyzed by GC and GC/MS. The antioxidant activity of the algal extracts was determined using the procedures of inhibition of ?-carotene bleaching and ABTS+ methods. The antioxidant effects of the extracts were compared with those of commercial antioxidants, such as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), butylated hydroxyanisol (BHA) and ?-tocopherol. The hexane extracts of D. dichofoma var. implexa had a higher phenolic content than the other extracts. The dichloromethane extract of S. lomentaria was found to be more active in the decolorization of ABTS+ than the other extracts and generally the dichloromethane extracts were more active than the methanol and hexane extracts. Antimicrobial activities of the extracts were assessed against Gram (+) and Gram (-) bacteria and one yeast strain by the disk diffusion method. According to the results, the dichloromethane extracts generally showed more potent antimicrobial activity than the methanol and hexane extracts at concentrations 1.5 and 1.0 mg/disk.
Determination of methylparaben from cosmetic products by ultra performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Mincea Manuela , Lupşa Ioana , Cinghiţă Dan , Radovan Ciprian , Talpos Ioan
Published: June 2009

A new method for the determination of methylparaben by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) was developed. Methylparaben is often used as preservative, alone or in combination with other parabens, being added to cosmetic products, pharmaceutical products and foods to avoid microbial contamination. Due to its widespread use and potential risk to human health, assessing human exposure to this compound is of interest. A good determination and quantification of methylparaben was developed with a gradient elution using a mixture of methanol and water (60:40, v/v) within 1.455 min. Under optimized conditions, the linear working range extends over two orders of magnitude with relative standard deviations of intra- and inter-day precision below 2.3 %, and a detection limit of 0.02 ng ?L-1 for methylparaben. The proposed method was successfully applied to the assay of methylparaben in cosmetic products with minimal sample preparation.
Normal-phase thin-layer chromatography of some angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and their metabolites
Authors: Odovic Jadranka , Aleksic Mirjana , Stojimirovic Biljana , Milojkovic-Opsenica Dusanka , Tesic Zivoslav
Published: June 2009

The separation and chromatographic behaviour of five ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors and their four active metabolites were investigated by normal-phase thin-layer chromatography on silica using several mono- and binary non-aqueous solvent systems. The linear relationship between the RM values and the composition of employed mobile phase was obtained. The hydrophobicity parameters 0M R and C0 were determined from the regression data of the plots, analogous to reversed-phase chromatography. The chromatographically obtained hydrophobicity parameters were correlated with the calculated log P values. The current results were correlated with the lipophilicity of the studied ACE inhibitors and their metabolites, previously estimated by reversed-phase chromatography.
Thermal-hydraulic modeling of the steady-state operating conditions of a fire-tube boiler
Authors: Rahmani Ahmed , Dahia Ahmed
Published: June 2009

In this work, we are interested to simulate the thermal-hydraulic behavior of three-pass type fire-tube boiler. The plant is designed to produce 4.5 tons per hour of saturated steam at 8 bar destined principally for heating applications. A calculation program is developed in order to simulate the boiler operation under several steady-state operating conditions. This program is based upon heat transfer laws between hot gases and the fire-tube internal walls. In the boiler combustion chamber, the heat transfer has been simulated using the well-stirred furnace model. In the convection section, heat balance has been carried out to estimate the heat exchanges between the hot gases and the tube banks. The obtained results are compared to the steady-state operating data of the considered plant. A comparative analysis shows that the calculation results are in good agreement with the boiler operating data. Furthermore, a sensitivity study has been carried out to assess the effects of input parameters, namely the fuel flow rate, air excess, ambient temperature, and operating pressure, upon the boiler thermal performances.
Study of influence of buildup factor form on simulated radiographic image
Authors: Marinkovic Predrag
Published: June 2009

The objective of the study presented in this paper is the analysis of influence of different buildup factor forms on a simulated radiographic image. Simulated radiographic images are obtained by means of the ray-tracing technique. Scattered photons are modelled using the generally accepted geometric progression form, linear form and tabulated data of buildup factors. Simulated images were compared to the reference results obtained by Monte Carlo calculation. The best agreement to Monte Carlo simulated images is achieved for the geometric progression form of buildup factor.
Microalbuminuria and Cardiovascular Autonomic Dysfunction Are Independently Associated With Cardiovascular Mortality: Evidence for Distinct Pathways
Authors: Beijers Hanneke J.B.H. , Ferreira Isabel , Bravenboer Bert , Dekker Jacqueline M. , Nijpels Giel , Heine Robert J. , Stehouwer Coen D.A.
Published: June 2009

OBJECTIVE

Microalbuminuria is associated with cardiovascular mortality, particularly among individuals with type 2 diabetes, but the mechanisms underlying this association are not completely understood. Microalbuminuria is known to be associated with cardiovascular autonomic dysfunction (C-AD), and C-AD in turn is associated with cardiovascular mortality. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to investigate whether C-AD can explain the relationship between microalbuminuria and cardiovascular mortality.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We studied 490 individuals from a population-based cohort of individuals aged 50–75 years who were followed for a median period of 13.6 years. Microalbuminuria was defined as an albumin-to-creatinine ratio ≥2.0 mg/mmol in an early-morning spot-urine sample. Ten parameters reflecting different aspects of cardiovascular autonomic function were measured and compiled into a total score of C-AD (mean of separate z scores). The association between C-AD and microalbuminuria was estimated by multiple linear regression, and relative risks (RRs) for cardiovascular mortality were estimated by Cox proportional hazards analyses.

RESULTS

After adjustments for age, sex, glucose tolerance status, and other risk factors, C-AD was associated with microalbuminuria (β = 0.16 [95% CI 0.01–0.33]), and both microalbuminuria (RR 2.09 [1.07–4.08]) and C-AD (1.74 [1.04–2.89]) were associated with cardiovascular mortality. These associations did not change after further mutual adjustment for C-AD (2.13 [1.09–4.17]) or microalbuminuria (1.76 [1.05–2.94]), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Both microalbuminuria and C-AD are independently associated with cardiovascular mortality, and the excess mortality attributable to microalbuminuria cannot be explained by C-AD.
Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young in Children With Incidental Hyperglycemia:
Authors: Lorini Renata , Klersy Catherine , d'Annunzio Giuseppe , Massa Ornella , Minuto Nicola , Iafusco Dario , Bellannè-Chantelot Christine , Frongia Anna Paola , Toni Sonia , Meschi Franco , Cerutti Franco , Barbetti Fabrizio ,   the Italian Society of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology (ISPED) Study Group
Published: June 2009

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) in Italian children with incidental hyperglycemia.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Among 748 subjects age 1–18 years with incidental hyperglycemia, minimal diagnostic criteria for MODY were met by 172 families. Mutational analyses of the glucokinase (GCK) and hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α (HNF1Α) genes were performed.

RESULTS

We identified 85 GCK gene mutations in 109 probands and 10 HNF1Α mutations in 12 probands. In GCK patients, the median neonatal weight and age at the first evaluation were lower than those found in patients with HNF1A mutations. Median fasting plasma glucose and impaired fasting glucose/impaired glucose tolerance frequency after oral glucose tolerance testing were higher in GCK patients, who also showed a lower frequency of diabetes than HNF1A patients.

CONCLUSIONS

GCK mutations are the prevailing cause of MODY (63.4%) when the index case is recruited in Italian children with incidental hyperglycemia.
Acute pancreatitis after nifedipine and acetaminophen poisoning — case report
Authors: Sorodoc Laurentiu , Lionte Catalina , Bologa Cristina , Petris Ovidiu , Sorodoc Victorita , Buga Carmen
Published: June 2009

The incidence of drug-induced pancreatitis is rare. There have been several reports of acute pancreatitis as a complication in acute poisoning with drugs or toxins. We present a case of a young woman with acute pancreatitis secondary to an overdose of nifedipine and acetaminophen in a suicide attempt. We excluded other causes of acute pancreatitis by clinical history, serum toxicology, serology, and abdominal imaging. The most likely underlying pathophysiological mechanism was ischemic injury of the pancreas secondary to severe collapse induced by nifedipine and possible acetaminophen-induced direct pancreatotoxicity. The pancreatitis resolved with treatment that included continuous veno-venous haemofiltration in an intensive care unit. Emergency and intensive care units should be aware of this unusual complication of such poisoning. To our knowledge, this is the first reported association between massive nifedipine overdose and acute pancreatitis.
An unusual form of Gaucher’s disease: pulmonary and cardiovascular involvement and cholelitiasis
Authors: Ceyhan Meltem , Celik Fatma , Elmali Muzaffer , Gurmen Nevzat
Published: June 2009

Gaucher’s disease is an inherited storage disease caused by a deficiency of the enzyme glucocerebrosidase. Although the hepatic manifestations are seen frequently, pulmonary and cardiovascular involvements are known to be very rare in Gaucher’s disease. This report presents these rare findings made by conventional radiography, computerized tomography (CT), and High-resolution CT (HRCT) of a 16-year-old female patient with fatal Gaucher’s disease.
Synthesis of certain pyrrole derivatives as antimicro-bial agents
Authors: Mohamed Mosaad , El-Domany Ramdan , Abd El-Hameed Rania
Published: June 2009

Synthesis of certain pyrrole derivatives as antimicro-bial agents

In an effort to establish new pyrroles and pyrrolo[2,3-d] pyrimidines with improved antimicrobial activity we report here the synthesis andin vitromicrobiological evaluation of a series of pyrrole derivatives. A series of new 2-aminopyrrole-3-carbonitriles (1a-d) were synthesized from the reaction of benzoin, primary aromatic amines and malononitrile, from which a number of pyrrole derivatives (2a-dto5a-d) and pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidines (6a-dto10a, d) were synthesized. Thein vitroantimicrobial testing of the synthesized compounds was carried out against Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. Some of the prepared compounds, [2-amino-1-(2-methylphenyl)-4,5-diphenyl-1H-pyrrole-3-carbonitriles (1b), 2-amino-3-carbamoyl-1-(3-methylphenyl)-4,5-diphenyl-1H-pyrroles (2b),N-(3-cyano-1-(2-methylphenyl)-4,5-diphenyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)-acetamides (3b),N-(3-cyano-1-(3-methylphenyl)-4,5-diphenyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)-acetamides (3c), 2-amino-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4,5-diphenyl-3-tetrazolo-1H-pyrroles (5d),7-(4-methoxyphenyl)-5,6-diphenyl-7H-pyrrolo [2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-ones (7d), 7-(3-methylphenyl)-5,6-diphenyl-7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d]pyrimidin-4(3H)-thione (9b) andN-(7-(2-methylphenyl)-5,6-diphenyl-7H-pyrrolo[2,3-d] pyrimidine)-N-aryl amines (10a)] showed potent antimicrobial activity.
Synthesis of coumarin heterocyclic derivatives with antioxidant activity and in vitro cytotoxic activity against tumour cells
Authors: Manojkumar Parameswaran , Ravi Thengungal , Subbuchettiar Gopalakrishnan
Published: June 2009

Synthesis of coumarin heterocyclic derivatives with antioxidant activity andin vitrocytotoxic activity against tumour cells

The aim of the present work was to synthesise coumarinyl heterocycles and to elucidate the potential role of these compounds as antioxidants and cytotoxic agents against Dalton's lymphoma ascites tumour cells (DLA) and Ehrlich ascites carcinoma cells (EAC). The synthesis of coumarin derivatives containing pyrazole, pyrazolone, thiazolidin-4-one, 5-carboxymethyl-4-thiazolidinone and 3-acetyl-1,3,4-oxadiazole ring is reported. 4-Methylcoumarinyl-7-oxyacetic acid hydrazide (1) reacted with arylazopropanes or hydrazono-3-oxobutyrate derivatives to form pyrazole (3a-c) and pyrazolone derivatives (5a-c). Heterocyclisation of Schiff's bases of 1 with thioglycolic acid, thiomalic acid or acetic anhydride afforded novel heterocyclic derivatives 4-thiazolidinones (7a-c), 5-carboxymethyl-4-thiazolidinones (8a-c) and oxadiazoles (9a-c), respectively. Some of the compounds showed promising antioxidant activityin vitroand cytotoxic activity against DLA cells and EAC cells.
Indeterminacy in the Political Center Ground: Perspectives for the Christian Democratic Party in 2009
Authors: Zolleis Udo
Published: June 2009

This article deals with the political, programmatic, and organizational changes within the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) during the time of the second grand coalition (2005-present). For the CDU, the period of the grand coalition is a time of waiting concerning its organizational and programmatic reform processes. Thus, the election of 2009 will be crucial for the political development of the party—in respect to its political profile, as well as its strategic options within the political market.
On the Way Back into Government? The Free Democratic Party Gearing Up for the 2009 Elections
Authors: Steltemeier Rolf
Published: June 2009

After the first Bundestag elections in 1949, the Free Democratic Party (FDP) established itself as kingmaker either of the Christian Democrats or the Social Democrats. The entrance of the Green Party into the German Bundestag in 1983 brought about a significant change in the German political landscape, which challenged the German Liberals to redefine themselves. At present, it seems that the FDP is on its way back into the federal government after ten years of opposition, although "neoliberal" ideology is currently facing a severe international crisis. This constitutes a puzzling issue for political scientists, which is addressed in this article by analyzing the factors that can explain the German Liberal's latest success. Furthermore, the FDP's chances in comparison to the other two small parties (Left Party and Greens) are discussed. Finally, attention is focused on the characteristics of the FDP's election campaign and its coalition options for 2009 and beyond.