bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wet Air Oxidation of Municipal Sludge: Return Experience of the North Brussels Waste Water Treatment Plant
Authors: Chauzy J. , Martin JC. , Cretenot D. , Rosiere JP
Published: March 2010

For large cities which cannot afford to sustain land disposal of sludge, Wet Air Oxidation appears to be an interesting option, perceived as environmentally friendly to a public opinion some times reluctant toward conventional incineration. However, due to significant investment costs, it is relevant to reduce upstream the amount of sludge by anaerobic digestion. This paper presents the North Brussels WWTP (1.1 Million pe), which was started-up in 2006. The sludge treatment consists of thermal hydrolysis of dewatered sludge followed by high load mesophilic anaerobic digestion and Wet Air Oxidation. The Wet Air Oxidation final product is then dewatered and dried to over 90% solids content, prior to being disposed as a cover product for landfills.
Automating & Remotely Controlling Brooklyn STP
Authors: Marvell Cheryl , Kearney Colum , Mandryk Robert
Published: March 2010

In 2007 and 2008 Sydney Water Corporation as part of its Priority Sewage Program (PSP) designed and constructed a sewage system to service the townships of Brooklyn, Dangar Island and Gosford Council areas of Peat Island, Moonie Moonie and Cherrio Point, located on the Hawkesbury River north of Sydney. Due to the sensitivity of the oyster growing industry in the Hawkesbury a sealed low-pressure system and a membrane bioreactor was chosen.

One of the design requirements given to PSP was that the plant and system had to be remotely controlled with as little face-to-face operations time as possible. It had to be integrated into the Hornsby Treatment Team operations, which already operated two large plants 25 kilometres away. The plant had to meet Sydney Waters Sequence Control And Data Acquisition (SCADA) Standards. Due to the remote control requirement the standard “black box” normally given with a membrane plant such as this had to be unravelled and directly programmed into Brooklyn's SCADA.

This paper talks about the challenges of manning the operations, automation, programming and controlling a complex plant and system with those design requirements.
Treatment of soy oil effluent using ultrafiltration
Authors: Mousavi S. M. , Dolati H. , Ghaffarian V.
Published: March 2010

A pilot-scale ultrafiltration (UF) system is applied to determine UF process feasibility for treating soy oil effluent. Effluent pollutions consist of turbidity, total solid (TS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and oil and grease. Permeate flux and rejection percentages of pollutants are evaluated at different temperatures and transmembrane pressures (TMPs) using nitrocellulose membrane. Permeate flux is increased with increasing temperature and TMP. Considerable amount of effluent pollutants is reduced by used membrane as the rejection percentage for TS, BOD, COD, and oil and grease are about 50%, 70%, 70%, and 55%, respectively. The best separation performance of nitrocellulose membrane is in reduction of effluent turbidity which is almost 95%.
Occurrence and Removal of PPCPs and EDCs in the Detroit River Watershed
Authors: Tabe Shahram , Yang Paul , Zhao Xiaoming , Hao Chunyan , Seth Rajesh , Schweitzer Linda , Jamal Taher
Published: March 2010

The occurrence of 51 pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) and endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) in the Detroit River Watershed (DRW) was investigated. Also, the efficiency of local water treatment plants (WTPs) in removing these pollutants was evaluated. Samples were collected from various locations in the DRW, including the discharge of a sewage treatment plant (STP), downstream of the STP on the Detroit River, the intakes of the WTPs, and treated drinking water. Of the 51 target substances analyzed, 12 were not detected in any of the samples, while 14 were detected consistently in all samples from the STP effluent. The concentration of target chemicals was two to four orders of magnitude higher in the STP effluents than at the intakes of the WTPs. In total, 10 substances were detected in at least 10% of the drinking water samples. Two compounds, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctyl solfonate (PFOS), were found in 90+% of the drinking water samples.
Ultra-Nano Filtration: A Promising Practice to Supply Potable Water from Surface Resources
Authors: Jafarian A. , Abkar L. , Bonakdar M. , Saffari M.
Published: March 2010

Membrane technology has grown rapidly in Iran in the last decade, however most of the installed capacities are to produce industrial water and rarely for potable water. Most of the installed plants use RO process to produce industrial and even potable water. In this study, Nanofiltration (NF) technology was employed for Karoon River desalination as an economic and energy saving treatment process. Unstable quality and high turbidity of Karoon River results in fouling on NF/RO membranes, leading to chemical washing once a month and replacing membranes within 6 month or per year. Thus, unlike of many water treatment plants which benefit traditional pretreatment processes; ultra-filtration (UF) has been used as an effective and helpful pretreatment process. To make the proposed system reliability more clear, UF-NF results after three month of operation were compared with an equivalent RO system. In fact, UF-NF system benefits a lower pressure drop due to lower fouling on membranes and also more suitable permeate quality for drinking than RO. Hence, the promising results of the present practice may offer a reasonable solution to solve potable water supply problems in some deprived and arid regions.
Managing the reverse osmosis concentrate from the Western Corridor Recycled Water Scheme
Authors: Solley David , Gronow Claire , Tait Stephan , Bates Jon , Buchanan Alison
Published: March 2010

The Western Corridor Recycled Water Scheme consists of three advanced water treatment plants (AWTPs), with the combined capacity to recycle 232 ML/d. Each AWTP process consists of pre-treatment, microfiltration (MF), reverse osmosis (RO), UV/peroxide advanced oxidation and chlorination. A key objective of the project is to improve the environmental health of regional waterways, particularly in relation to nutrient discharges. Reverse osmosis processes produce a concentrate stream (ROC), which is the main reject stream of the AWTPs. Options for management of ROC were assessed, and ultimate disposal to nearby waterways was the only feasible option identified. ROC flows for the scheme total 41 ML/d at full capacity, divided between the three AWTPs. The contaminants in this stream are generally 6 to 7 times more concentrated than in the feed water. Environmental risks were identified due to potential increased toxicity associated with these higher concentrations, which were exacerbated due to chlorine and ammonia dosed in the AWTP process. Target ROC contaminants have been identified as nitrogen, phosphorus, ammonia, metals and chlorine. The paper presents the selected toxicity management and nutrient reduction strategies for each AWTP, and the results of full-scale operation to date are also summarised.
Socio-economic analysis of constructed wetlands systems for hygienic sanitation in Tanzania
Authors: Balkema Annelies , Njau Karoli N. , Romijn Henny , de Ruijter Ralph
Published: March 2010

In Tanzania, as in many other developing countries, the great majority of people still do not have access to safe drinking water supply and hygienic sanitation. For institutions, such as schools and hospitals, where water supply is available, constructed wetlands system (CW) can provide hygienic sanitation. However, successful implementation of constructed wetlands in Tanzania is still hindered by to a lack of investment capital and lack of knowledge and commitment of users, responsible government institutions and international development agencies. Based on an evaluation of 5 constructed wetland projects, including an in depth socio economic analysis of 2 systems and a broader dynamic innovation system analysis of the water and sanitation sector in Tanzania, we provide insight in bottlenecks and opportunities for constructed wetland projects in Tanzania. This analysis shows that failure of constructed wetland projects is often due to the great discrepancy between the limited private and large societal net benefits. Socio-economic costs of diseases are not visible to decision makers and remain therefore unaccounted for. As a result implementation of hygienic sanitation systems fails due to unrealistic attempts at cost-saving by taking short-cuts in the implementation and maintenance. On the other hand, there are also very promising examples such as the constructed wetland system at the Ruaha Secondary School, whose sanitation was found to be technically, financially as well as social-economically successful.
Gender, Personal Networks, and Drug Use among Rural African Americans
Authors: Goldbarg Rosalyn Negrón , Brown Emma J.
Published: March 2010

One of the main unifying concepts of research examining gender variations in drug use behavior is the social network. Yet, research specifically focusing on how the social networks of these groups differ by gender is limited. Few studies have investigated the social networks of rural African Americans who use drugs. In this study, we compared the personal networks of 20 rural African-American men and women addicted to cocaine using social network analysis (SNA) methods. The data do not support strong assertions about gender differences in the personal networks of the study sample. However, the results of the study suggest that men tend to have more drug users in their networks than women, as well as less structurally cohesive networks. Women tend to include more men in their personal networks than men included women. Implications of the research results for network-based drug prevention intervention as well as the value of SNA methods for drug use research are discussed.
Enhancing Social Support, Hardiness, and Acculturation to Improve Mental Health among Asian Indian International Students
Authors: Kanekar Amar , Sharma Manoj , Atri Ashutosh
Published: March 2010

International students, upon relocation to a foreign country, undergo a major life event which can cause distress that can potentially affect their mental health. This study pilot tested an internet-based intervention to enhance the social support, hardiness, and acculturation among students of Asian Indian origin at a large midwestern university. A pretest-posttest randomized design was employed. The pretest was administered to 60 students who were then randomly assigned to experimental and comparison groups. The experimental group was offered online instruction about social support, hardiness, and acculturation through Blackboard™ over 2 months. The comparison group received an equivalent protocol based on general wellness. Repeated measures ANOVA was done which showed significant improvement in mental health variable ( F(1, 37) = 4.768, p < 0.05). Recommendations for replicating such interventions in other groups of international students are presented.
Access to Skilled Care at Home during Pregnancy and Childbirth: Dhaka Bangladesh
Authors: Tasnim Saria , Rahman Aminur , Shahabuddin A. K. M.
Published: March 2010

In Bangladesh the majority of childbirth takes place at home by unskilled persons. The objective of this study was to strengthen maternity care services through provision of skilled midwives and to explore people's perception of skilled birth attendants. As part of a quasi-experimental community trial conducted among selected urban area of Dhaka city, a group of skilled midwives were posted in selected urban centers between January to December 2002 to provide obstetric care services and some social mobilization activity in the community. Analysis of skilled midwives self-reported case records and monitory reports of the researchers was done on selected themes. The perception of the skilled midwife was not clear to people. They thought traditional birth attendants who conducts delivery over years were skilled midwives. Preparedness for obstetric emergency and birth planning was non-existent in the families. The skilled midwives were well accepted in the community but discouraged by center authority for home birth, apprehending that it will reduce their client flow and earning. Non-cooperation by other health care providers was common.
Enhanced Microwave Induced Thermochemical Conversion of Waste Glycerol for Syngas Production
Authors: Hawangchu Yotwadee , Atong Duangduen , Sricharoenchaikul Viboon
Published: March 2010

Glycerol waste from biodiesel production can be converted to syngas (CO+H2) via a thermochemical conversion process. In this study, microwave was used to initiate a glycerol conversion reaction in a specially fabricated quartz tube reactor with a silicon carbide bed as the microwave absorber. A nickel-based catalyst and steam were added to the reacting bed to enhance production of hydrogen. By adjusting the microwave power level from 110 to 880 watt (W), the reaction temperature of 500°C to more than 1400°C could be rapidly achieved within a few minutes, which is much faster than heating by conventional furnaces. The gasification reaction commenced by feeding raw material continuously through the hot silicon carbide bed at a rate of 1 g/min with the O2 to fuel ratio varying from 0-0.25. The overall time for each trial was 20-30 minutes including preheating of the bed material. In contrast to typical biomass gasification, char and tar yields were small in most runs. In general, glycerol waste yielded higher syngas when compared with pure glycerol conversion. Complete conversion to gas product may be achieved at a power level of 440W. The maximum syngas production from glycerol waste without a catalyst was more than 23.98 L over 20 min run at 660 W with 0.25 O2 to fuel ratio. Overall content of other hydrocarbon gases was around 3-28 vol.% depending on operating conditions and raw material. Lower heating values (LHV) of product gas for glycerol waste were much higher for runs at 1.0 L/min carrier gas flow, ranging from 3.75-17.64 MJ/m3 while relatively stable LHV of 1.96-5.88 were obtained from 2.0 L/min flow. The addition of a catalyst significantly increased gas production at lower wattage runs where overall conversions were comparable to those of higher wattage experiments without catalysts. The maximum total conversion and LHV were obtained from 1%Ni/SiC catalyst at a reaction temperature of 600°C (330W) and no external O2 with a gas product heating value of 9.18 MJ/m3 and 1.32 H2 to CO ratio. From these results, the novel microwave-induced heating technique can be considered as an efficient option for conversion of glycerol waste via the gasification process to acceptable quality syngas.
Is There an Association between Levels of Bovine Tuberculosis in Cattle Herds and Badgers?
Authors: Donnelly Christl A , Hone Jim
Published: March 2010

Wildlife diseases can have undesirable effects on wildlife, on livestock and people. Bovine tuberculosis (TB) is such a disease. This study derives and then evaluates relationships between the proportion of cattle herds with newly detected TB infection in a year and data on badgers, in parts of Britain.The relationships are examined using data from 10 sites which were randomly selected to be proactive culling sites in the UK Randomized Badger Culling Trial. The badger data are from the initial cull only and the cattle incidence data pre-date the initial badger cull.The analysis of the proportion of cattle herds with newly detected TB infection in a year, showed strong support for the model including significant frequency-dependent transmission between cattle herds and significant badger-to-herd transmission proportional to the proportion of M. bovis-infected badgers. Based on the model best fitting all the data, 3.4% of herds (95% CI: 0  6.7%) would be expected to have TB infection newly detected (i.e. to experience a TB herd breakdown) in a year, in the absence of transmission from badgers. Thus, the null hypothesis that at equilibrium herd-to-herd transmission is not sufficient to sustain TB in the cattle population, in the absence of transmission from badgers cannot be rejected (p=0.18). Omitting data from three sites in which badger carcase storage may have affected data quality; the estimate dropped to 1.3% of herds (95% CI: 0  6.5%) with p=0.76.The results demonstrate close positive relationships between bovine TB in cattle herds and badgers infectious with M. bovis. The results indicate that TB in cattle herds could be substantially reduced, possibly even eliminated, in the absence of transmission from badgers to cattle. The results are based on observational data and a small data set to provide weaker inference than from a large experimental study.
Self-esteem, occupational self-esteem, and epistemological beliefs of Turkish university students
Authors: Oztas Fulya
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this research was to find out how students' self-esteem, occupational self-esteem, and epistemological beliefs influence their occupational success. The results revealed that there was a significantly positive relationship between the students' occupational self-esteem
and self-esteem, as well as between occupational self-esteem and the lower values of the Epistemological Beliefs Scale (Schommer, 1990). A significant relationship was also found between the students' self-esteem and occupational self-esteem (p < 0.05) according to the study program
of the students.
Attachment and social behaviors in the period of transition from preschool to first grade
Authors: Seven Serdal
Published: March 2010

This study was an investigation of whether or not children's attachment representation and social behaviors were linked to adaptation transition from preschool to elementary school. Eighty students participated in this study. Attachment representation, school adaptation, and social
behaviors were measured by Incomplete Stories with Doll Family (Cassidy, 1988), Teacher Assessment of Social Behavior (Cassidy & Asher, 1992), and an Adaptation to School in the First Month Questionnaire developed for this study by the author. One way ANOVA, correlation analysis, and regression
analysis were employed to analyze data. Findings showed that there were adaptive problems at elementary school because of insecure attachment and some social behaviors. Attachment and shy-withdrawn behavior were significant predictors of school adaptation with several links among school adaptation,
attachment representation, and children's social behaviors.
Internet gambling: A school-based survey among Macau students
Authors: Wong Irene Lai Kuen
Published: March 2010

Internet gambling was examined among 422 Macau students (240 male; 182 female) aged 12-22, who were recruited from 6 schools. Results indicated that 6.6% of the participants had gambled online in the past year, wagering on soccer matches (50%), mahjong (35.7%), and casino games (14.3%).
They were attracted by the operators' acceptance of low wagers (39.3%), anonymity assurance (28.6%), and convenience and accessibility (25%). Using the Massachusetts Gambling Screen (MAGS; Shaffer, LaBrie, Scanlan, & Cummings, 1994), 10.7% and 25% of the Internet gamblers could be classified
as problem and pathological gamblers, respectively. Males were twice as likely as females to gamble online and have gambling problems. Rates of participation and problem gambling increased with school grades. Survey results shed light on prevention.
Synthesis, characterization and dyeing assessment of novel acid azo dyes and mordent acid azo dyes based on 2- hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone on wool and silk fabrics
Authors: Dixit Bharat , Patel Hitendra , Dixit Ritu , Desai Dhirubhai
Published: March 2010

Novel acid mono azo and mordent acid mono azo dyes were synthesis by the coupling of diazonium salt solution of different aromatic amines with 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzophenone. The resulting dyes were characterized by spectral techniques, i.e., elemental analysis, IR, 1H-NMR and UV-visible spectroscopy. The dyeing performance of all the dyes was evaluated on wool and silk fabrics. The dyeing of chrome pre-treated wool and silk fabrics showed better hues on mordented fabrics. Dyeing of wool and silk fabrics resulted in pinkish blue to red shades with very good depth and levelness. The dyed fabrics showed excellent to very good light, washing, perspiration, sublimation and rubbing fastness. The results of antibacterial studies of chrome pre-treated fabrics revealed that the toxicity of mordented dyes against E. coli, S. aureus, S. typhi, B. subtilis bacteria was fairly good.
Toxicological Methods for Tracing Drug Abuse: Chromatographic, Spectroscopic and Biological Characterisation of Ecstasy Derivatives
Authors: Belhadj-Tahar Hafid , Payoux Pierre , Tafani Mathieu , Coulais Yvon , Calet Serge , Bousseksou Azzedine
Published: March 2010

Toxicological Methods for Tracing Drug Abuse: Chromatographic, Spectroscopic and Biological Characterisation of Ecstasy Derivatives

Analysis often reveals variability in the composition of ecstasy pills from pure 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) to mixtures of MDMA derivatives, amphetamine, and other unidentified substances. For a comprehensive toxicological analysis one needs to know all steps to MDMA synthesis which may originate impurities. The aim of this study was to synthesise and determine the chemical-physical andin vitrobiological properties of a series of MDMA derivatives.

3,4-methylendioxyphenyl-2-nitropropene (MDNP) was obtained by condensation of piperonal with an excess of nitroethane in the presence of ammonium acetate. MDNP was then reduced to methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) by LiAlH3. All compounds were analysed using HPLC and spectroscopic technique [Raman, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), or infrared (IR)] at all the steps of synthesis. In addition, we assessed the biological potentials of these compounds by measuringin vitrotheir (i) blood cell/whole blood partition coefficient, (ii) binding to plasmatic proteins (Fbp), and (iii) membrane adsorption. Chemical structure was determined with antibody fluorescence polarisation immunoassay (FPIA). This study showed the presence of solid impurities, particularly of a neurotoxic compound of Al3+in the final products. FPIA identified the aminoethane group close to the substituted benzene ring, but did not detect the two major precursors of MDMA: MDNP and piperonal. Raman spectroscopy is an attractive alternative technique to characterise ecstasy pills and it can identify stereoisomeric forms such ascis-MDNP andtrans-MDNP, which exhibit signals at 1650 cm-1and 1300 cm-1, respectively.
Mesothelioma Risk Associated with Asbestos Production in Slovenia
Authors: Vudrag Marko , Rihtar Tatja , Vegnuti Miljana
Published: March 2010

Mesothelioma Risk Associated with Asbestos Production in Slovenia

The aim of this study was to assess malignant mesothelioma morbidity due to exposure to asbestos in a population living in districts Nova Gorica and Tolmin (49,850 people) near the asbestos manufacturing village Anhovo (Slovenia) and to compare it with the entire Slovene population (1,949,750 people). Crude rates per 100,000 people were calculated from the total number of mesotheliomas, and risk assessment in the studied vs. total population was based on 23 years worth of data. Time series data on mesothelioma cases were also processed as a forecast of new cases by 2010.

The crude incidence of mesothelioma per 100,000 individuals for all of Slovenia was 21.4, while for the Nova Gorica district including the village Anhovo it is 170.2 and for the Tolmin district 60.9. The probability of a mesothelioma case in the studied population was 8.5 times the probability of the same diagnosis in the whole of Slovenia. Over 23 years, 28% of all mesothelioma cases in Slovenia were diagnosed in the studied population, which makes only 2.5% of the total Slovene population.

The outbreak of asbestosis and mesothelioma epidemics in the studied population is associated with manufacture of asbestos products in the local factory from 1922 to 1996.
Surfactants in the Environment
Authors: Ivanković Tomislav , Hrenović Jasna
Published: March 2010

Surfactants in the Environment

Surfactants are a diverse group of chemicals that are best known for their wide use in detergents and other cleaning products. After use, residual surfactants are discharged into sewage systems or directly into surface waters, and most of them end up dispersed in different environmental compartments such as soil, water or sediment. The toxic effects of surfactants on various aquatic organisms are well known. In general, surfactants are present in the environment at levels below toxicity and in Croatia below the national limit. Most surfactants are readily biodegradable and their amount is greatly reduced with secondary treatment in wastewater treatment plants. The highest concern is the release of untreated wastewater or wastewater that has undergone primary treatment alone. The discharge of wastewater polluted with massive quantities of surfactants could have serious effects on the ecosystem. Future studies of surfactant toxicities and biodegradation are necessary to withdraw highly toxic and non-biodegradable compounds from commercial use and replace them with more environmentally friendly ones.
Melatonin Inhibits Benzene-Induced Lipid Peroxidation in Rat Liver
Authors: Sharma Seema , Rana Suresh
Published: March 2010

Melatonin Inhibits Benzene-Induced Lipid Peroxidation in Rat Liver

We studied the antioxidative role of melatonin against benzene toxicity in rat liver. The inhibition of mitochondrial and microsomal lipid peroxidation differed between 24-hour (single-dose), 15-day, and 30-day treatments. Inhibition of mitochondrial lipid peroxidation was the highest after the single dose of melatonin, whereas highest microsomal inhibition was recorded after 30 days of melatonin treatment. No significant difference was recorded between 15-day and 30-day treatments. Cytochrome P4502E1 (CYP4502E1) activity declined after the single-dose and 15-day melatonin treatment in the benzene-treated group, but it rose again, though not significantly after 30 days of treatment. Liver histopathology generally supported these findings. Phenol concentration in the urine samples declined in melatonin and benzene-treated rats. Our results show that melatonin affects CYP4502E1, which is responsible for benzene metabolism. Inhibition of its metabolism correlated with lower lipid peroxidation. In conclusion, melatonin was found to be protective against lipid peroxidation induced by benzene.
Surfactant to dye binding degree method for the determination of fluvoxamine maleate and citalopram hydrobromide in pharmaceuticals
Authors: Amjadi Mohammad , Manzoori Jamshid , Hassanzadeh Javad
Published: March 2010

The surfactant to dye binding degree (SBDB) methodology was used to determine fluvoxamine maleate and citalopram hydrobromide. Neutral red and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) were used as the dye and surfactant, respectively, to form dye-surfactant aggregates. When a cationic drug is added to dye-surfactant mixture, it interacts with the surfactant and decreases the dye-surfactant binding degree. This decrease is proportional to the drug concentration. This was measured by monitoring the absorbance changes of the dye at 532 nm. Under the optimum conditions, the calibration graphs were linear over the range of 1.2–15 μg mL−1 and 1.1–15 μg mL−1 for fluvoxamine maleate and citalopram hydrobromide, respectively. The detection limits (signal to noise ratio = 3) were found to be 0.37 and 0.35 μg mL−1, for fluvoxamine maleate and citalopram hydrobromide, respectively.
Structure of isolated tyrosyl-glycyl-glycine tripeptide. A comparative conformational study with peptides containing an aromatic ring
Authors: Barrera Guisasola Exequiel , Masman Marcelo , Enriz Ricardo , Rodríguez Ana
Published: March 2010

The potential energy surface (PES) of tyrosyl-glycyl-glycine (YGG) tripeptide in solution was explored using EDMC (Electrostatically Driven Monte Carlo) and in the gas-phase by means of ab initio quantum chemical calculations. The theoretical computational analysis revealed that this tripeptide possesses a significant molecular flexibility. A C7 backbone conformation was the most energetically preferred for the central Gly residue, using both methodologies. Some new stable conformers that have not been previously reported were identified in the gas phase as well. This study points out the interplay of backbone and side-chain contributions in determining the relative stabilities of energy minima. In addition, the peptide backbone of YGG was compared with other small peptides containing aromatic side-chains (Phe-Gly-Gly and Trp-Gly-Gly). The comparison with experimental X-ray results was also satisfactory.
Reaction of metals with benzenediazonium tetrafluoroborate in aprotic solvents
Authors: Koval’chuk Eugen , Reshetnyak Oleksandr , Pereviznyk Orest , Marchuk Iryna , Smetanets’kyj Vasyl , Błażejowski Jerzy
Published: March 2010

The reaction of metals and glassy carbon with benzenediazonium tetrafluoroborate (BDFB) in aprotic solvents has been studied. During contact of Pt, Au, Ag, Pd, or V with glassy carbon in concentrated diazonium salt solution no change of color was observed. For Al, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ga, In, Mg, Li, Na, or Zn the process was accompanied by a rapid solution color change, rapid N2 release and the loss of metal sample mass. The copper metal ionization-dissolution was studied by ultraviolet and visible absorption spectroscopy, along with gravimetric and volumetric measurements. A dissolution mechanism was proposed based on kinetic, infrared, and X-ray diffraction data. The 432 nm absorption band appearing after Cu-BDFB reaction indicates formation of the mixed complex [Cu(N2C6H5·(N≡C-CH3)3]+ where the copper atom is covalently bonded to the azophenyl radical and coordinated to acetonitrile (ACN). This complex is thermodynamically unstable and decomposes slowly to a colorless crystalline and a black amorphous phase. The crystalline phase was identified as [Cu(NC-CH3)4]BF4. The amorphous phase is a mixture of products formed by azophenyl and phenyl radical condensation.
Flame atomic absorption spectrometric determination of trace amounts of lead, cadmium and nickel in different matrixes after solid phase extraction on modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Mohammadi S. , Afzali D. , Pourtalebi D.
Published: March 2010

The potential of modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes (a solid-phase extraction sorbent), for the simultaneous separation and preconcentration of lead, cadmium and nickel; has been investigated. Lead, cadmium and nickel, were adsorbed quantitatively; on modified multiwalled carbon nanotubes (in the pH range of 2–4). Parameters influencing, the simultaneous preconcentration of Pb(II), Ni(II) and Cd(II) ions (such as pH of the sample, sample and eluent flow rate, type and volume of elution solution and interfering ions), have been examined and optimized. Under the optimum experimental conditions, the detection limits of this method. for Pb(II), Ni(II) and Cd(II) ions, were 0.32, 0.17 and 0.04 ng mL−1 in original solution, respectively. Seven replicate determinations, of a mixture of 2.0 μg mL−1 lead and nickel, and 1.0 μg mL−1 cadmium; gave a mean absorbance of 0.074, 0.151 and 0.310, with relative standard deviation 1.7%, 1.5% and 1.2%, respectively. The method has been applied, to the determination of trace amounts of lead, cadmium and nickel; in biological and water samples, with satisfactory results.
Toward Autonomous, Compliant, Omnidirectional Humanoid Robots for Natural Interaction in Real-Life Settings
Authors: Michaud François , Ferland François , Létourneau Dominic , Legault Marc-Antoine , Lauria Michel
Published: March 2010

The field of robotics has made steady progress in the pursuit of bringing autonomous machines into real-life settings. Over the last 3 years, we have seen omnidirectional humanoid platforms that now bring compliance, robustness and adaptiveness to handle the unconstrained situations of the real world. However, today’s contributions mostly address only a portion of the physical, cognitive or evaluative dimensions, which are all interdependent. This paper presents an overview of our attempt to integrate as a whole all three dimensions into a robot named Johnny-0. We present Johnny-0’s distinct contributions in simultaneously exploiting compliance at the locomotion level, in grounding reasoning and actions through behaviors, and in considering all possible factors experimenting in the wildness of the real world.
Cognitive map plasticity and imitation strategies to improve individual and social behaviors of autonomous agents
Authors: Laroque Philippe , Gaussier Nathalie , Cuperlier Nicolas , Quoy Mathias , Gaussier Philippe
Published: March 2010

Starting from neurobiological hypotheses on the existence of place cells (PC) in the brain, the aim of this article is to show how little assumptions at both individual and social levels can lead to the emergence of non-trivial global behaviors in a multi-agent system (MAS). In particular, we show that adding a simple, hebbian learning mechanism on a cognitive map allows autonomous, situated agents to adapt themselves in a dynamically changing environment, and that even using simple agent-following strategies (driven either by similarities in the agent movement, or by individual marks - “signatures” - in agents) can dramatically improve the global performance of the MAS, in terms of survival rate of the agents. Moreover, we show that analogies can be made between such a MAS and the emergence of certain social behaviors.
Tracking and segmentation using min-cut with consecutive shape priors
Authors: Wang Junqiu , Yagi Yasushi
Published: March 2010

Tracking and segmentation find a wide range of applications such as intelligent sensing of robots, human-computer interaction, and video surveillance. Tracking and segmentation, however, are challenging for many reasons, e.g., complicated object shapes, cluttered background. We propose a tracking and segmentation algorithm that employs shape priors in a consecutive way. We found that shape information obtained using the Min-Cut algorithm can be applied in segmenting the consecutive frames. In our algorithm, the tracking and segmentation are carried out consecutively. We use an adaptive tracker that employs color and shape features. The target is modeled based on discriminative features selected using foreground/background contrast analysis. Tracking provides overall motion of the target for the segmentation module. Based on the overall motion, we segment object out using the effective min-cut algorithm. Markov Random Fields, which are the foundation of the min-cut algorithm, provide poor priors for specific shapes. It is necessary to embed shape priors into the min-cut algorithm to achieve reasonable segmentation results. Object shapes obtained by segmentation are employed as shape priors to improve segmentation in next frame. We have verified the proposed approach and got positive results on challenging video sequences.§
Voice-awareness control for a humanoid robot consistent with its body posture and movements
Authors: Otsuka Takuma , Nakadai Kazuhiro , Takahashi Toru , Komatani Kazunori , Ogata Tetsuya , Okuno Hiroshi G.
Published: March 2010

This paper presents voice-awareness control consistent with robot’s head movements. For a natural spoken communication between robots and humans, robots must behave and speak the way humans expect them to. The consistency between the robot’s voice quality and its body motion is one of the most especially striking factors in naturalness of robot speech. Our control is based on a new model of spectral envelope modification for vertical head motion, and left-right balance modulation for horizontal head motion. We assume that a pitch-axis rotation, or a vertical head motion, and a yaw-axis rotation, or a horizontal head motion, effect the voice quality independently. The spectral envelope modification model is constructed based on the analysis of human vocalizations. The left-right balance model is established by measuring impulse responses using a pair of microphones. Experimental results show that the voice-awareness is perceivable in a robot-to-robot dialogue when the robots stand up to 150 cm away. The dynamic change in the voice quality is also confirmed in the experiment.
Nonlinear predictive control based on neural multi-models
Authors: Ławryńczuk Maciej , Tatjewski Piotr
Published: March 2010

Nonlinear predictive control based on neural multi-models

This paper discusses neural multi-models based on Multi Layer Perceptron (MLP) networks and a computationally efficient nonlinear Model Predictive Control (MPC) algorithm which uses such models. Thanks to the nature of the model it calculates future predictions without using previous predictions. This means that, unlike the classical Nonlinear Auto Regressive with eXternal input (NARX) model, the multi-model is not used recurrently in MPC, and the prediction error is not propagated. In order to avoid nonlinear optimisation, in the discussed suboptimal MPC algorithm the neural multi-model is linearised on-line and, as a result, the future control policy is found by solving of a quadratic programming problem.
The HeKatE methodology. Hybrid engineering of intelligent systems
Authors: Nalepa Grzegorz , Ligęza Antoni
Published: March 2010

The HeKatE methodology. Hybrid engineering of intelligent systems

This paper describes a new approach, the HeKatE methodology, to the design and development of complex rule-based systems for control and decision support. The main paradigm for rule representation, namely, eXtended Tabular Trees (XTT), ensures high density and transparency of visual knowledge representation. Contrary to traditional, flat rule-based systems, the XTT approach is focused on groups of similar rules rather than on single rules. Such groups form decision tables which are connected into a network for inference. Efficient inference is assured as only the rules necessary for achieving the goal, identified by the context of inference and partial order among tables, are fired. In the paper a new version of the language—XTT22—is presented. It is based on ALSV(FD) logic, also described in the paper. Another distinctive feature of the presented approach is a top-down design methodology based on successive refinement of the project. It starts with Attribute Relationship Diagram (ARD) development. Such a diagram represents relationships between system variables. Based on the ARD scheme, XTT tables and links between them are generated. The tables are filled with expert-provided constraints on values of the attributes. The code for rule representation is generated in a humanreadable representation called HMR and interpreted with a provided inference engine called HeaRT. A set of software tools supporting the visual design and development stages is described in brief.
A complete gradient clustering algorithm formed with kernel estimators
Authors: Kulczycki Piotr , Charytanowicz Małgorzata
Published: March 2010

A complete gradient clustering algorithm formed with kernel estimators

The aim of this paper is to provide a gradient clustering algorithm in its complete form, suitable for direct use without requiring a deeper statistical knowledge. The values of all parameters are effectively calculated using optimizing procedures. Moreover, an illustrative analysis of the meaning of particular parameters is shown, followed by the effects resulting from possible modifications with respect to their primarily assigned optimal values. The proposed algorithm does not demand strict assumptions regarding the desired number of clusters, which allows the obtained number to be better suited to a real data structure. Moreover, a feature specific to it is the possibility to influence the proportion between the number of clusters in areas where data elements are dense as opposed to their sparse regions. Finally, the algorithm—by the detection of oneelement clusters—allows identifying atypical elements, which enables their elimination or possible designation to bigger clusters, thus increasing the homogeneity of the data set.
Oskar Vogt: The first myeloarchitectonic map of the human frontal cortex
Authors: Judaš Miloš , Cepanec Maja
Published: March 2010

The aim of this paper is threefold: (a) to provide the translation in English of Oskar Vogt’s seminal 1910 paper describing the first myeloarchitectonic map of the human frontal cortex, introduced by a brief historical review of Cécile & Oskar Vogt’s contribution to neuroscience; (b) to provide an annotated bibliography of major works of cortical cytoarchitectonics and myeloarchitectonics in the tradition of the Brodmann-Vogt architectonic school (Supplement 2); and (c) to provide an annotated bibliography of major works of the Russian architectonic school which was founded by Oskar Vogt (Supplement 3).
Perinatal treatment
Authors: Blažević Sofia , Jurčić Željka , Hranilović Dubravka
Published: March 2010

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5HT) regulates the development of 5HT neurons and target tissues during neurogenesis, while later it assumes the function of a neurotransmitter. Alterations in serotonin neurotransmission are indicated as biological substrates in several neuropsychiatric disorders, including autism. The most consistent 5HT-related finding in autistic disorder is hyperserotonemia, but the mechanism of its development and its relation to central 5HT dysfunction are still unclear. In an attempt to pharmacologically induce hyperserotonemia during the period of most intensive development of 5HT neurons, and to later investigate its effects on central 5HT functions, we have treated rats from gestational day 13 until postnatal day 21 with 2 mg/kg of the nonselective irreversible MAO inhibitor tranylcypromine (TCP). The control group received saline in the same manner. TCP treated rats displayed a long-lasting significant increase in platelet 5HT concentrations compared to the control rats. The TCP treated group had smaller litters, significantly lower pup survival rate, and slower weight gain during the post-weaning free-feeding period than the control group. Pups from the TCP group returned to their dams significantly slower than the control pups suggesting lower separation anxiety. Our results indicate that the perinatal treatment of rats with tranylcypromine has induced both, disregulation of the peripheral 5HT homeostasis and disturbances in central 5HT physiology in pups and young rats. The extent of the changes in the central serotonergic compartment in adult rats will be explored in our further studies.
Brain tau isoform mRNA and protein correlation in PSP brain
Authors: Connie Luk , Jana Vandrovcova , Elke Malzer , Andrew Lees , Rohan Silva
Published: March 2010

Insoluble aggregates of the microtubule associated protein, tau are pathological hallmarks of several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), called tauopathies. The tau gene (MAPT) is alternatively spliced and the composition of resulting protein isoforms in aggregates is disease specific. Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is characterised by tangles predominantly containing isoforms with four microtubule binding repeat domains (4R-tau) suggesting that changes in isoform-specific mRNA expression play a role the pathogenesis of the disease. This is supported by the genetics of MAPT. In this study, we quantified expression of 3R- and 4R-tau isoforms at both the mRNA and protein levels in the caudate nucleus, a region severely affected by tau pathology. Results from real-time qPCR and a recently developed ELISA showed statistically significant increase in 4R-tau isoforms in PSP samples compared to controls. In addition, we measured soluble and insoluble hyperphosphorylated tau protein fractions in each PSP sample and compared to the corresponding mRNA transcript levels. No strong correlations were observed with either 3R- or 4R-tau. These findings confirmed the increased ratio of 4R-tau:3R-tau isoforms in PSP. However, we did not find a direct quantitative relationship between individual mRNA and protein levels suggesting a more complex regulation of isoform expression at the post-transcriptional level.
Plasticity to neonatal sensorimotor cortex injury
Authors: Galley Sarah , Clowry Gavin
Published: March 2010

A CST-YFP transgenic mouse has been developed for the study of the corticospinal tract in which yellow fluorescent protein is expressed under the control of thy1 and emx1 promoters in order to restrict expression to forebrain neurones. We explored plasticity of the developing corticospinal tract of these mice following a unilateral lesion to the sensorimotor cortex at postnatal day 7. The extent of innervation of the cervical spinal cord at time points post-lesion was assessed by measuring density of immunoperoxidase reactivity for yellow fluorescent protein in the dorsal funiculi and a defined region of each dorsal horn, and by counting immunoreactive axonal varicosities in the ventral horns. Two/three days post-lesion, the density of immunoreactivity in the dorsal horn contralateral to the lesion was reduced proportional to the decrease in positive fibres in the dorsal funiculus, however density of immunoreactive varicosities in the ventral horn was more resistant to loss. Over a three week period, immunoreactive axonal processes in the grey matter increased on the contralateral side, particularly in the ventral horn, but without an increase in immunopositive fibres in the contralateral dorsal funiculus, demonstrating sprouting of surviving immunoreactive fibres to replace lesioned corticospinal axons. However, the origin of sprouting fibres could not be identified with confidence as parallel observations revealed strongly immunoreactive neuronal cell bodies in the spinal cord, medulla and red nucleus. We have demonstrated plasticity in response to a developmental lesion but discovered a drawback to using these mice if visualisation of individual axons is enhanced by immunohistochemistry.
It Security System Development for State Institution
Authors: Lajevskis Vladimirs , Dorogovs Pjotrs , Romanovs Andrejs
Published: March 2010

It Security System Development for State Institution

Nowadays the work efficiency and proficiency of public and private sector substantially depend on information technologies. In connection with the large volume of information stored in automated systems throughout the public sector, special attention should be paid to information security and security of actives. The main goals and tasks of information security, frameworks of IT security system are defined and analyzed in the paper; the standard of IT security system development is investigated, as well as international standards significance and guidance application within the development of IT security system. On the bases of research, the features of the State institutions are defined, which are necessary to take into consideration during the development of IT security system. The primary tasks of IT security system development are emphasized and the technique of development of IT security systems for State institutions is worked out.
Simulation-Based Analysis of Fitness Landscape in Optimisation
Authors: Merkuryeva Galina , Bolshakovs Vitalijs
Published: March 2010

Simulation-Based Analysis of Fitness Landscape in Optimisation

Simulation-based analysis of fitness landscape with application to optimisation problems is discussed in the paper. Methods of analysis of fitness landscapes and measures known in literature are reviewed. Procedure for simulation-based analysis of fitness landscape is introduced. Software prototype to perform this analysis is described. Case study for a vehicle scheduling problem with the time window constraints is given and demonstrates the main steps of fitness landscape analysis applied to simulation optimisation problem.