bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of responses to stress by estradiol benzoate and selective estrogen receptor agonists
Authors: Serova Lidia I , Harris Heather A , Maharjan Shreekrishna , Sabban Esther L
Published: March 2010

Previously, pretreatment with estradiol benzoate (EB) was found to modulate the response of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis and gene expression in several catecholaminergic neuronal locations in ovariectomized (OVX) rats exposed to single immobilization stress (IMO). Here, we investigated the role of estrogen receptor (ER) subtypes, using selective agonists for ERα (propyl pyrazole triol, PPT) or ERβ (WAY-200070) in two major central noradrenergic systems and the HPA axis after exposure to single and repeated IMO. OVX female rats received 21 daily injections of either EB (25 μg/kg), PPT (10 mg/kg), WAY-200070 (10 mg/kg), or vehicle. Injections of EB and PPT, but not WAY-200070, elicited reduced body weight and increased uterine weight, showing their selectivity. Both EB and PPT increased corticosterone levels about two- to threefold, but prevented any further rise with either single or repeated IMO, indicating an ERα (ESR1)-, but not ERβ (ESR2)-, mediated mechanism. In the locus coeruleus (LC), the rise in dopamine-β-hydroxylase (Dbh) mRNA with both stress paradigms was abrogated in EB- or PPT-injected animals. However, WAY-200070 blocked the response of DBH mRNA to single IMO but not to repeated IMO. In the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), the rise in tyrosine hydroxylase and DBH mRNAs with both IMOs was absent, or greatly attenuated, in EB- or PPT-treated rats. In most cases, WAY-200070 inhibited the response to single IMO but not to repeated IMO. The results demonstrate that pretreatment with estradiol, or ER-selective agonists, modulates the stress-triggered induction of gene expression of norepinephrine biosynthetic enzymes in LC and NTS, with ER selectivity depending on duration of the stress.
Managing the flooding system's resiliency to climate change
Authors: Gersonius Berry , Ashley Richard , Pathirana Assela , Zevenbergen Chris
Published: March 2010

An increasing lack of stationarity in environmental phenomena and hence in the predictability of loading and effects makes it necessary to modify the traditional approach for planning and risk assessment of flood mitigation. The traditional approach attempts to manage the flooding system with the use of predictive/optimisation methods. These use the ‘most likely’ or average future projection to identify a singular optimal adaptation strategy. Because the planning and risk management in this method is often decoupled from the dynamics and uncertainty of the flooding system, this is a rather risky approach. This paper argues that responsible climate adaptation requires an alternative approach that attempts to assess and manage the resiliency of the flooding system for long-term future change. The aim of such an approach is to keep the system within a configuration of states that gives at least acceptable functioning despite the occurrence of possible changes. The paper proposes an options planning and assessment process for managing the resiliency of the flooding system to climate change. This process explicitly acknowledges the uncertainty in future climate conditions by introducing and implementing flexibility (real options) into the designed components of the flooding system.
Sustainable higher education buildings in a changing climate
Authors: Aisheh Yazan Abu , Yates Tim , Gaterell Mark
Published: March 2010

Higher education institutions in England occupy approximately 25 million m2 of gross space. Considerable sums of money are now being spent on refurbishing parts of the estate, much of which was built since the 1940s to thermal standards far lower than those expected today. The choice of whether to refurbish or demolish and rebuild requires a critical analysis of a range of environmental, social and economic issues. To this end the Association of University Directors of Estates developed a toolkit to identify crucial issues that need to be taken into account in order to make this choice clear. However, while the toolkit represents a considerable step forward, it does not include the projected impact of climate change and its uncertainty. Analysis of an existing naturally ventilated higher education building built in 1974 suggests that projected changes in the UK climate will have a significant impact on the likelihood of building overheating. Consequently, when assessing likely refurbishment options it is essential that the impacts of climate uncertainty now and in the future are considered.
Briefing: Strategic research on climate impacts
Authors: Hall Jim W. , Street Roger B.
Published: March 2010

This briefing outlines UK strategic research programmes on climate impacts and adaptation for infrastructure, the built environment and utilities over the past eight years. Future research prospects are highlighted.
AN INTRODUCTION TO ALLUVIAL GROUTING.
Authors: ISCHY E , GLOSSOP R
Published: March 2010

THE Paper describest he general principles of the "single fluid" injection process with examples of its application in civil engineering, with particular reference to the treatment of alluvial deposits.

The nature of alluvial deposits, the physics of injection and various types of grout are discussed at some length since all have an important bearing on the economics of most grouting operations. A description of the tube 5 manchette precedes an outline of the control of injection with the emphasis on site investigation and trial blocks.

Grouting alluvial soils may be used as a temporary expedient in large excavations, such as Vogelgrun Power Station on the Grand Canal Alsace, in deep basements in cities and in shaft sinking in fine sand. The use of alluvial grouting for tunnels is mentioned, with references to the Dartford-Purfleet tunnel, the Clyde tunnel and the new Blackwall tunnel under the Thames.

To form impermeable cut-offs beneath dams, grouting has been used by itself or in combination with bored sheet piles. Grouting may also be used to repair such sub-surface structures as tunnels and concrete and masonry foundations.
FEATURES IN THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE SHELL CENTRE, LONDON.
Authors: MEASOR E O , WILLIAMS G J M
Published: March 2010

The Paper refers briefly the London County Council's scheme for development of the South Bank area, and describes the main features of the Shell Centre which is divided into an upstream and a downstream section. A feature of the former is a tower block 351 ft high. An account is given of the ground conditions over the site and of considerations concerning the effects of extraordinary high tides.

Retaining walls of prestressed concrete were designed to act as simple cantilevers. Prestressing of the walls is described. The basement of the upstream section was constructed over the tunnels of the Bakerloo Railway and its floor level was only about 7 ft above the crown of one tunnel. Special measura and precautions were taken to avoid damage to the tunnels. Calculations were made of the probable heave of the tunnels during basement excavation and careful observations carried out of the actual heave. The distortions of the tunnels were measured.

The buildings are extensive, with wide differences in the foundation loading under various sections. Differential settlements had to be considered carefully and measures taken to minimize their effects. The tower block and certain other parts of the upstream section were founded upon cylinders which were generally formed by machine auger. Water was excluded from the basements by the retaining walls which formed a cut-off in the London clay. Reliance was placed upon the watertightness of the concrete in the retaining walls. These were divided into short lengths, with water bars in the joints.

The upstream and the downstream sections are connected by a subway under the brick arch of the Waterloo-charing Cross railway viaduct. The construction of this subway immediately adjacetnot shallow viaduct foundations carrying heavy locomotives called for special measures. Cooling water for the air conditioning system of the building is drawn from the River Thames through a tunnel in the London clay. This was driven by hand without a shield. Compressed air was applied to the section of tunnel under the river.

The framework of the tower block is steel. Up to second floor level this takes the form of welded rigid frames. Above second floor level lateral strength is provided by moment connexions with high-strength bolts, in combination with bracings incorporated in fixed wall positions.

Measures taken by the contractor to achieve a high speed of construction are described briefly.
THE GAS TURBINE TEST FACILITY AT PYESTOCK.
Authors: HANCOCK R J R , ADAMS H C
Published: March 2010

The spectacular progresisn the design of jet aircraft which has taken places ince the last war has called for improved methods of testing the power units and this has led to the development of static testing equipment in which jet engines may be tested under simulated flight conditions. The Paper describes the design and construction of the civil engineering works requirefdo r such a projecta t the National Gas Turbine Establishment of the Ministry of Aviation, Pyestock, Hants.
THE ULU PANDAN SEWAGE DISPOSAL SCHEME, SINGAPORE.
Authors: OAKLEY H R , CRIPPS T
Published: March 2010

The Paper discusses the Ulu Pandan sewage disposal scheme in the State of Singapore, commissioned in July 1961. The brief introductory section gives some general comment on Singapore conditions. This is followed by more detailed information about the background to the scheme. Broad details of the basis of design and of the plant provided are followed by some observations on (a) features of particular interest in the design and (b) problems in the construction of the scheme. The Paper concludes with information about contract costs and with acknowledgements.
UNIFORM FLOW OF WATER IN ALLUVIAL CHANNELS.
Authors: SETHNA T R
Published: March 2010

The flow of water in canals and rivers in alluvial beds is analysed, and it is shown that the uniform flow of water in alluvial channels is of two types: (1) where bed material is not inm ovement and (2) where bedm aterial is in movement. It is shown that for (1) friction varies directly as velocity and Chezy's formula can be written as V=cRS. For (2) friction varies as the square of velocity and Chezy's formula retains its old form V= Cd/RSc; and C are constants for the particular type of bed material and are dependent on the coefficient of friction found by Froude from his experiments.

The formulae V= cRS and V= Cd/RS are shown to be dimensionally correct. A formula for silt transportation iasr rived at tof ind out what maximum silt charge can be carried at a velocity. This formula is also shown to be dimensionally correct.

The Froude coefficient of friction is correlated with diameter of bed material so that the values of c and C can be obtained from the average weighted mean diameter of bed material in millimeters.

It is also suggested that a channel is stable when the velocity required to overcome friction equals the velocity required to transport suspended silt.

The word silt used in the paper refers to inorganic matter carried by water either as bed load or in suspension.
Field-Scale Analysis of Heavy-Oil Recovery by Electrical Heating
Authors: Hascakir B.. , Babadagli T.. , Akin S..
Published: March 2010

Electrical heating for heavy-oil recovery is not a new idea, but the commercialization and wider application of this technique require detailed analyses to determine optimal application conditions. In this study, applicability of electrical heating for heavy-oil recovery from two heavy-oil fields in Turkey (Bati Raman and Camurlu) was tested numerically. The physical and chemical properties of the oil samples for the two fields were compiled, and in-situ viscosity reduction during the heating process was measured with and without using iron powder. Iron powder addition to oil samples causes a decrease in the polar components (such as carboxylic and phenolic acids) of oil, and the viscosity of oil can be reduced significantly because of the magnetic fields created by iron powders. Three different iron-powder types at three different doses were tested to observe their impact on oil recovery. Experimental observations showed that viscosity reductions were accomplished at 88 and 63% for Bati Raman and Camurlu crude oils, respectively, after 0.5% iron (Fe) addition, which was determined as the optimum type and dose for both crude-oil samples. Next, field-scale recovery was tested numerically using the viscosity values obtained from the laboratory experiments and physical and chemical properties of the oil fields compiled from the literature. The power of the system, operation period, and the number of heaters were optimized. Economic evaluation performed only on the basis of the electricity cost using the field-scale numerical modeling study showed that the production of 1 bbl petroleum costs approximately USD 5, and at the end of 70 days, 320 bbl of petroleum can be produced. When 0.5% Fe is added, oil production increased to 440 bbl for the same operational time period.
Sustaining Production by Managing Annular-Pressure Buildup
Authors: Hasan A.R.. R. , Izgec B.. , Kabir C.S.. S.
Published: March 2010

Increased tubinghead temperature with increased rate may induce pressure increase in the annuli for the trapped fluid. Managing annular-pressure buildup (APB) for sustaining well deliverability is particularly crucial in subsea wells, where intervention is complicated. Ordinarily, a multistring casing design accommodates anomalous pressure rise from the standpoint of well integrity. However, management of day-to-day operations presents challenges when APB occurs. This study presents mechanistic models for understanding and mitigating APB during production. By preserving mass, momentum, and energy in the wellbore, we developed two approaches involving semisteady-state and transient formulations. The intrinsic idea is to mimic the physical process with minimal input parameters to estimate pressure buildup in the annuli. Our model formulation handles the mechanisms of fluid expansion and fluid influx/efflux quite rigorously. This approach appears to be quite sufficient because we account for most of the cases of APB encountered.
Impact of Successive Squeezes on Treatment Lifetime and Well Productivity: Comparative Assessment of Viscosified and Nonviscosified Treatments
Authors: Fleming Niall , Ramstad Kari , Kidd Sam , Hoeth Laurien Wichers
Published: March 2010

Over the lifetime of a well, it is possible that several squeeze operations will be performed depending on scaling severity. Downhole squeeze operations have been performed for many years and generally have been an effective scale-management tool. However, the long-term impact that successive squeezing has on treatment lifetime and well productivity has received little attention. Fleming et al. (2008) detailed the results of a unique sequence of long-term corefloods that were designed to replicate five successive treatments on the kaolinite-rich, Middle Tarbert core from Oseberg S0r. Relatively few squeeze treatments have been performed on this field, and the coreflood results were upscaled to provide a potential prediction of the effects of long-term squeezing on treatment lifetime and on well productivity on Oseberg S0r. Furthermore, the laboratory results were cross-checked by a comparison with the Heidrun field that has been squeezed for many years. Heidrun is an analog of Oseberg Sϕr, with kaolinite-rich producing intervals and similar productivity issues related to kaolinite mobilization.

In recent years, viscosified squeeze treatments have become popular for improved inhibitor placement within horizontal wells and have been used on Heidrun and Norne. However, the longterm impact that such squeezing has on treatment lifetime and well productivity has not been examined until now. This paper will give details of an identical sequence of long-term corefloods in which the inhibitor was viscosified. All testing parameters have been kept identical between viscosified and nonviscosified treatments, including the core material and scale inhibitor. The impact on squeeze lifetimes will be demonstrated along with potential formation-damage mechanisms.
Hydrocarbon Production Optimization in Fields With Different Ownership and Commercial Interests
Authors: Haavardsson Nils Fridthjov , Huseby Arne Bang , Pedersen Frank Børre , Lyngroth Steinar , Xu Jingzhen , Aasheim Tore I.
Published: March 2010

A main field and satellite fields consist of several separate reservoirs with gas cap and/or oil rim. A processing facility on the main field receives and processes the oil, gas, and water from all the reservoirs. This facility is typically capable of processing only a limited amount of oil, gas, and water per unit of time. In order to satisfy these processing limitations, the production needs to be choked. The available capacity is shared among several field owners with different commercial interests. In this paper, we focus on how total oil and gas production from all the fields could be optimized. The satellite-field owners negotiate processing capacities on the main-field facility. This introduces additional processing-capacity constraints (booking constraints) for the owners of the main field. If the total wealth created by all owners represents the economic interests of the community, it is of interest to investigate whether the total wealth may be increased by lifting the booking constraints. If all reservoirs may be produced more optimally by removing the booking constraints, all owners may benefit from this when appropriate commercial arrangements are in place. We will compare two production strategies. The first production strategy optimizes locally, at distinct time intervals. At given intervals, the production is prioritized so that the maximum amount of oil is produced. In the second production strategy, a fixed weight is assigned to each reservoir. The purpose of the weights is to be able to prioritize some reservoirs before others. The weights are optimized from a life-cycle perspective. As an illustration, a case study based on real data is presented. For the examples considered, it is beneficial to lift the booking constraints because all of the reservoirs combined can be produced more efficiently when this is done.
Environmental Stewardship and the Humanitarian Aid Water and Sanitation Sector: Lessons from the 2004 Tsunami Disaster Response
Authors: Randall J.J. , Rand E. C. , Navaratne A. , Hagos Y.
Published: March 2010

This paper examines methods and strategies for addressing environmental stewardship within the humanitarian aid water and sanitation sector with a focus on case studies from the 2004 tsunami recovery effort in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Maldives. During the recovery phase following a natural or technological disaster, humanitarian aid organizations are uniquely positioned to implement water and sanitation activities that go beyond disaster recovery to provide beneficiaries with water and sanitation systems that are more environmentally sustainable than pre-disaster conditions. Oftentimes, however, the pressure to rapidly restore post-disaster water and sanitation systems leads to a lack of coordinated planning and missed opportunities to implement innovative technologies that can make communities more resilient to future disasters and reduce long-term ecosystem impacts. Following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, several humanitarian aid agencies recognized the importance of integrating environmental sustainability concepts into their water and sanitation relief operations. Methods for addressing environmental sustainability included co-locating environmental specialist staff within field operations, constructing pilot projects of environmentally beneficial small-scale technologies, integrating watershed planning with humanitarian aid, and participating in multi-stakeholder water and sanitation working groups. Challenges to the institutionalization of environmental stewardship concepts in humanitarian aid operations include overcoming the perception that environmental stewardship will always be more time and resource intensive than conventional alternatives, establishing organization-wide policies that are enforced at the field level, actively promoting intra- and inter-organizational learning, and providing readily accessible, practical field tools and training for aid staff. Lessons learned from the application of environmental stewardship approaches in the Indian Ocean tsunami response can be applied to future humanitarian aid relief operations.
An experimental study of nozzle diameters, aeration depths and angles on standard aeration efficiency (SAE) in a venturi aerator
Authors: Ghomi M.R. , Sohrabnejad M. , Ovissipour M. R.
Published: March 2010

A 1.1 kW submersible water pump with a venturi air injector was used in this study to examine the effects of three factors including nozzle diameter (14, 17 and 20 mm), aeration depth (20, 40 and 60 cm), and aeration angle (0, 22.5 and 45°) on standard aeration efficiency (SAE). For maximum air entrainment, HT / DT ratio and DT / DN ratio were equal to zero and 2, respectively. Among the first factor experiments, 14 mm nozzle diameter showed the highest SAE value (P<0.05). Although, 60 cm aeration depth and 45° aeration angle had more SAE value among other depths and angles, but there was not a significant difference (P>0.05) in each aeration depths and angles. Only, the determination coefficient for effect of nozzle diameters on SAE value showed a good result (R2= 0.958). The greatest oxygen transfer efficiency in this study has been achieved with using 14 mm nozzle size, 60 cm depth of aeration, and 45° angle of venturi tube in water aeration that was 1.166 kgO2/ kWh. Venturi aerators are very inexpensive in comparison with other aerators and have some other advantages that can be considered as one of the best devices for water aeration.
Valorisation of industrial rejection as an original coagulant for removal of textile wastewater
Authors: Anouzla Abdelkader , Abrouki Younes , Souabi Salah , Safi Mohamed , Rhbal Hicham
Published: March 2010

The investigation presented here focussed on the steel industrial wastewater (SIWW) FeCl3 rich as an original coagulant to remove the textile wastewater. Central composite rotatable design experiment is used to study the effect of coagulation process for textile wastewater and to optimise the variables such as coagulant dosage and initial pH, which influence the efficiency of colour and COD removal of this effluent. A model has been obtained among decolourization, COD reduction and relevant parameters by means of variance analysis and obtained model was optimized. The efficiencies of decolourization and COD reduction for textile wastewater were accomplished at optimum conditions as 98% and 91%, respectively.
Integrating hydraulic simulation and on-line process control
Authors: Vitasovic Z. Cello , Tychsen Philip Gunvor , Speer Edward , Ingold Dan , Yde Lars , Henry David , Garcia Bart
Published: March 2010

A dynamic hydraulic model was integrated with a model that simulates the behavior of the control system in the field. Open Model Interface (OMI) was used to connect the different simulation components into an overall simulation environment. The model (simulator) of the control system uses the same actual code that runs on Remote Terminal Units (RTU's) in the field. This architecture simplifies the maintenance of the simulation software, provides a realistic simulation of the control elements, and provides a mechanism for testing the control system logic with full consideration of hydraulic impacts.
Potential of hybrid processes for nitrogen removal from swine wastewater
Authors: López de Armentia T. , Larrea L.
Published: March 2010

A comprehensive investigation was carried out using a bench-scale plant (70l) with the aim of evaluatingthe potential of two hybrid processes that use plastic moving carriers for nitrification and denitrification, given the restriction that low and stable values of ammonium and nitrate had to be met. In one process, the nitrification aerobic reactor operated with the biomass in biofilm exclusively and achieved a nitrification rate of 0,8 gN/m2·d. In the other process, nitrification operated as a hybrid process and a similar nitrification rate in the biofilm was found. Batch tests revealed that suspended solids in the hybrid reactor provided an additional 20% nitrification rate. This resulted in a potential volumetric nitrification rate of 380 gN/m3·d at 20°C, which is 2.5 times the expected rate in activated sludge plants under the same conditions. A high anoxic fraction (55%) was used in both processes with hybrid denitrification, since it minimized inhibition of nitrification in the biofilm due to the biodegradable COD applied load. Batch tests undertaken with high suspended solids (4 g/l) revealed that 60% of the denitrification took place in the biomass in suspension, and 40% in biofilm, providing a high level and robust performance. The dosage of methanol was crucial in regulating effluent nitrate. It is concluded that both processes offer great potential regarding the design of more compact new plants and the upgrading of existing facilities.
Kinetic Study of Pressurized Ozonation Reactor of Tap Water
Authors: Kao Nien-Hsin , Su Ming-Chien
Published: March 2010

A developed pressurized pilot scale ozonation system with the volume of 28 L was designed to simulate the field operating condition by transferring premixed ozone and tap water into this system under the influence of three system pressure (1, 2 and 3 kgf/cm2), seven initial pH (5, 6, 6.5, 6.8, 8, 8.5, 9). The system was running in a continuous mode and with only initial pH adjustment to study the dissolution, self-decomposition and mass transfer of ozone in these conditions. The effects of the operating pressure and pH on ozone dissolution concentration, ozone decomposition rates and the liquid phase overall mass transfer coefficients (KLa) were determined quantitatively. The data show the calculated average ozone decomposition rates for pH increase from 5 to 9 are 9.01E-7 to 2.64 E-6 mol/L-min by using mole balance equation at the system pressure 2 kgf/cm2. The calculated average of KLa at the pseudo-steady state are 0.039 min−1 and 0.069 min−1 for pH less 6.5 and greater than 6.8, respectively.
A study on the Environmental Efficiency Improvement of a Sewage Treatment Plant by Performance Evaluation System
Authors: Fukushima T. , Somiya I.
Published: March 2010

We developed the Performance Evaluation System (PES) which evaluates both items on water quality in effluent and energy consumption by using the data of water quantity and water quality for whole processes in a sewage treatment plant. PES can calculate water quality in effluent and energy consumption quantitatively by using unit process models and evaluate the effect of the advancement of the operating management in whole integrative treatment processes.

We examine the reconstruction to aim advanced treatment processes and energy recovery from the viewpoint of both water purification and energy consumption on model sewage treatment plant with the capacity of 48000m3/day. It's achieved not only the improvement of water quality in effluent but also the reduction of excess sludge which needs more energy consumption and costs followed by additional treatment. About the nitrogen removal, MVNR (Marginal value of energy for Nitrogen removal) is able to estimate both water quality in effluent and energy consumption.

Anaerobic digestion and digestion gas generation for energy recovery in the sewage treatment plant are examined by EIR(Energy independence ratio) and EEIR(Electric Energy independence ratio). It is expected that EIR will be 37.1% and EEIR will be 41.8% with the application of solubilization facilities and increment of inflow BOD.
Water Loss Reduction and Change Management
Authors: Pocas Martins J.
Published: March 2010

Water loss reduction is a common goal of most water companies around the world: large or small, public or private, in developed or developing countries.

The context of each specific problem and the stage of development of each water company dictate the nature and extent of the solution. Many water companies, mostly in developed countries, are well run but have their performance indicators limited, for instance, by older assets or steep topography. In such cases, the critical factors are investment, technical knowledge and technology. However, in the majority of the water companies worldwide, this process primarily requires organizational change and the commitment of top management.

The non-revenue water, together with other indicators, helps to position the stage of development of each public water supply system in a convenient pre-efficacy/efficacy/ efficiency/excellence rating scale. The evolution along this rating scale is a common pattern of water companies in search of excellence.

The main objective of this paper is the definition and application of the basic principles of change management to water companies, with an emphasis on the reduction of non-revenue water. Based on case studies - that did not include situations of generalised poverty or non-payment of the water bills - it is argued that five to six years is sufficient, in ideal conditions, to approach excellence, but also that every window of opportunity to improve on the existing situation, great or small, must be taken.

In previously less efficient companies, it is possible that a tipping point - a level at which the momentum for change becomes unstoppable - may occur in the first year, with the production of great tangible results. Each water company has its unique complex context, but political support, leadership and time are prerequisites for success.
A Pilot Study into the Use of Springs for Drinking Water in Western and Central Newfoundland, Canada
Authors: Nicol Keith
Published: March 2010

Dissatisfaction with tap water has gradually grown over time and in many places in Canada bottled water and various tap water filtering systems have become increasingly popular. In Newfoundland, road side springs are another popular alternative drinking water supply, yet the Provincial Government does not test or treat this water. This study examines 18 communities in Western Newfoundland to determine why people don't drink tap water, the frequency of use of road side springs, and the bacteriological safety of a sampling of road side springs. The results indicate that the main reason for not drinking tap water was that it was perceived to be unsafe. But springs were used by 23 % of those surveyed and these springs were found to contain E. coli and/or coliforms 43 % of the time. By comparison, tap water testing by Newfoundland Environmental Health Officers found that between 5-6% of the community water supplies in Western and Central Newfoundland recorded the presence of coliform and/or E. Coli in 2007.
Design, implementation and experimental validation of a real-time control architecture for nitrogen removal in SBR systems
Authors: Irizar I. , Alferes J. , Larrea L. , Ayesa E.
Published: March 2010

This paper presents a real-time control architecture for SBR systems with no holding tank. The control approach has been divided into three separated layers in order to accommodate different full-scale scenarios. The lower control layer processes the ORP and DO trajectories to detect the depletion of the denitrification and nitrification reactions in order to automatically interrupt the reaction phases. The intermediate layer has been designed to maintain the total solid mass constant in reactors. Finally, an ammonia controller has been implemented in the supervisory layer that optimises the aeration costs to fulfil the effluent ammonia requirements. The overall control system has been verified experimentally in a 150L pilot plant. In this study, the lower control layer reduced the length of mixing and aeration by approximately 20%. In addition, the experimental validation of the ammonia controller led to reductions of about 30% in the overall aerated fraction.
Treatment of colored textile wastewater in SBR with emphasis on the biodegradation of sulfonated aromatic amines
Authors: Lourenço N.D. , Novais J.M. , Pinheiro H.M.
Published: March 2010

Azo dyes represent a problematic contaminant class in textile effluents because they are normally resistant to aerobic biodegradation and are consequently difficult to eliminate by conventional wastewater treatment systems. Since the mineralization of azo dyes is not likely to occur under the anaerobic conditions generally required for their reductive decolorization, anaerobic/aerobic SBR are promising systems for the decolorization of textile effluents containing azo dyes integrated with the mineralization of the resulting aromatic amines. In the present study, high decolorization yields (up to 90% with an initial dye concentration of 100 mg l-1) of a monoazo dye were achieved in the anaerobic phase of an anaerobic/aerobic SBR. However, the aromatic amines formed were not mineralized in the subsequent aerated phase. The development a bacterial community able to mineralize specific sulfonated aromatic amines was attempted in an aerobic SBR, operated downstream of the anaerobic/aerobic SBR. This attempt was not successful, since the microbial population was able to convert the primary aromatic amines, though not to full mineralization, but resulted in the identification of different chromatographic patterns arising from the bioconversion of azo dye metabolites in different oxygen-availability conditions. Oxygen-sensitivity of the involved intermediates is, however, an interfering factor possibly impairing biodegradation
A Collaborative Approach to Upgrading to Limits of Technology at the York River Treatment Plant
Authors: Venner I. , Husband J. , Noonan J. , Nelson A. , Waltrip D.
Published: March 2010

In response to rapid population growth as well as to address the nutrient reduction goals for the Chesapeake Bay established by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ), the Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD) initiated the York River Treatment Plant (YRTP) Expansion Phase 1 project.

The existing YRTP is a conventional step-feed activated sludge plant and is rated for an average daily design flow of 57 million liters per day (MLD). This project proposes to expand the existing treatment capacity to 114 MLD and to reduce the nutrients discharged to the York River, a tributary for the Chesapeake Bay.

In order to meet the effluent limits set by the VDEQ, a treatment upgrade to limit of technology (LOT) or enhanced nutrient removal (ENR) was required. Malcolm Pirnie worked with HRSD and the VDEQ to develop and evaluate ENR process alternatives to achieve the required effluent limits with the goal of determining the most reliable and cost effective alternative to achieve the aggressive nutrient reduction goals. This paper will highlight the key issues in determining the most desirable treatment process considering both economic and non-economic factors.
WATSAN in Partnership with NGOs and Communities of Nepal
Authors: Kumar Sharma Ramesh
Published: March 2010

The Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Fund Development Board (The Board) has been implementing WATSAN schemes in Nepal since March 14, 1996 under assistance from World Bank/IDA and DFID. The Board brought fundamental changes in the conventional supply driven approach to promote Demand Driven Community based water supply and sanitation project with cost effective and sustainable services to the rural people of Nepal. Communities are supported to form inclusive local water supply and sanitation user groups that can plan, implement, and operate drinking water and sanitation infrastructure that delivers sustainable health, hygiene and productivity benefits to rural households. Under the Board fund presently 165 NGOs partner together with local communities in 71 districts of Nepal to deliver safe water and sanitation services. The Board has contributed to improve sector institutional performance by grooming service delivery capacity of NGOs, Communities and mainstreaming its successful approaches in to Government mechanism and other sector agencies delivering developmental services in Nepal. Latest contribution of the Board is to support Ministry of Physical Planning and Works in establishing computerized Monitoring and Evaluation Unit and provide information regarding progress in rural water supply and sanitation sector. This will help the government in performance based budget allocation to service delivering agencies. As to Board's own performance various studies shows after project 90 percent hand wash practice in community, 33 percent No Open Defecation schemes and 84–92 percent sustainability of 3-8years old schemes
Nitrification of urine for H2S control in pressure sewers
Authors: Oosterhuis M. , van Loosdrecht M.C.M.
Published: March 2010

Urine separation has great interest from different water boards in the Netherlands. Separate treatment of urine will lead to lower nitrogen emissions from wwtp's with substantial energy savings. Furthermore, it is possible to recover phosphates and remove medicine residues and hormones from urine. In this project, urine collected with urinals and urine-separation toilets, was nitrified in a CSTR. An average ammonium conversion to nitrate of 97% was achieved. The nitrate rich urine was pumped into a small pressure sewer to prevent sulphate reduction. H2S in the gas phase of the sewer system was reduced significantly. From the required amount of nitrate (for >95% H2S reduction) the feasibility of urine nitrification for H2S control was determined. The costs of the concept mainly depend on transport and addition of sodium hydroxide. If urine can be collected undiluted (minimal 3 g N/l) and can be stored in big storage tanks (minimal 10 m3), nitrification of urine can be an alternative for Nutriox addition to pressure sewers.
The Design, Operation and Performance of the New Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) WWTP for the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA Camps in Western Massachusetts
Authors: Oram Vigneault Nancy , Owerdieck Carsten
Published: March 2010

The increasingly stringent requirements for effluent quality and the need to reclaim water are promoting the application of membrane bioreactor (MBR) systems for wastewater treatment. The membrane replaces the solids separation function carried out by the secondary clarifier and sand filter in a conventional activated sludge system. The MBR process effectively overcomes the problems associated with poor settling of sludge. In addition, the use of membranes permits the operation of the bioreactor at higher mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) concentrations of 8,000 to 12,000 milligrams per litre (mg/L) compared to a conventional system, which may operate between 2,000 to 4,000 mg/L. The elevated biomass concentration allows for improved removal of both soluble and particulate biodegradable material from the wastewater. The MBR design also reduces the area as well as the reactor volume required for treatment.

Two-State YMCA operates Camp Chimney Corners and Camp Becket in Becket, Massachusetts. These two camps were under consent orders to address deficient septic systems and decided to construct a 40,000 gallons per day (151,400 litres/day) wastewater treatment plant and wastewater collection and conveyance system to address septic system problems. A MBR wastewater treatment plant was designed and constructed and began treating wastewater in May 2007. This paper presents the design, operation, and performance of the MBR WWTP.
Odour creation potential of sludge during composting and drying
Authors: Bouchy L. , Senante E. , Dauthuille P. , Aupetitgendre M. , Harry JP , Venot S. , Rougé P.
Published: March 2010

Recent French regulations have driven people to build many composting and drying sites over the last few years. The control of odour nuisance is essential within the framework of the respect of sustainable development, However to be dealt with properly, this issue must be taken into account when designing a facility and throughout its operation. Therefore tools are required to give the means to assess and anticipate odorous emissions. Within this context, a campaign of field trials was launched on several Suez Environnement composting and drying sites. Various types of sludges were treated on different types of industrial composting and drying reactors. In each case the reactor was monitored throughout the sludge treatment and the following compounds analysed: sulphur compounds (H2S, mercaptans, sulphides), nitrogenous compounds (ammonia and amines), aldehydes, ketones, Volatile Fatty Acids, alcohols, VOCs and odours. This work has enabled relevant parameters influencing odour emissions during sludge composting and drying to be determined, and is the basis for a complete composting and drying emissions model.
Water Centric Cities of the Future - Towards Macroscale Assessment of Sustainability
Authors: Novotny Vladimir , Novotny Eric V.
Published: March 2010

The developments of several current and future ecocities have been comparatively assessed as to their environmental benefits of preservation or restoration of the ecological and hydrological (water reuse) functionality of their surface water bodies and social benefits such as carbon emissions reduction, recreation, and resource recovery. These evaluation categories are the key components of the Triple Bottom Line assessment of sustainability. The assessed urban water developments include downtown San Antonio (TX, USA), ecocity portion of San Francisco and Sonoma Mountain Village (CA, USA), Hammarby Sjöstad (Sweden), Tianjin, Qingdao and Dongtan (China), and Masdar (UAE). The analysis revealed some problems with the lack of macroscale measures, models, and indices for some key components of the triple bottom assessment. Several research hypotheses and ecocity concepts were suggested for further research and studying.
Exploration of Integrating Stormwater Best Management Practices into Landscape Design in Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City
Authors: Jiang Ming , Lin Xuefeng , Asselin Stephane
Published: March 2010

Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City is a cooperation project between Singapore and China that seeks not only to be sustainable, but also practical, scalable and replicable. A number of challenges exist at the site chosen for this unique project, in particular, scarce and polluted water resources. An urban landscape design that is water sensitive and maximises utilisation of stormwater as a resource and improves surface water quality is currently being prepared. Rationale and general design approach including unique challenges are discussed. Preliminary sizing and siting is presented. It is concluded that relevant overseas experience can be successfully applied in the Chinese context and that a Water Sensitive Urban Design and in particular, stormwater BMPs, are a key component of a sustainable Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City.
Pressure Management - A Strategic Measure to Reduce Non-Revenue Water in Hong Kong
Authors: Kwan S.Y. , Shou Stephanus , Kimshaiyong Tanin , Sathiasothy Sherine , Chan Kennie
Published: March 2010

Active leakage control (ALC) is a key component of the Water Supplies Department (WSD)'s long-term strategy to reduce Non-Revenue Water (NRW). As part of this overall strategy, WSD is implementing Pressure Management (PM) and Continuous Monitoring (CM) schemes in order to manage and control NRW efficiently and effectively and thereby reduce the leakage levels to target values. The PM and CM schemes involve the development of hydraulic models to provide a better understanding of the fresh water distribution system as a whole and enable effective analysis of the system performance under various conditions so as to optimise the designs of District Metering Areas (DMAs) and Pressure Management Areas (PMAs).

It is known that pressure management does not only provide short-term financial gains but also has long-term financial benefits such as reduction in pipe failures (i.e. burst frequency), extended asset life, and savings in the cost of repairing main bursts. Reduced water losses will result in more efficient use of existing water supplies. Therefore, a successful leakage control programme can provide long-term water savings and delay the need to develop new water supply sources, which would reduce the amount of water to be treated and distributed, reduce the cost involved in infrastructure upgrading works, and contribute to sustainable development.

This paper outlines the methodology adopted and shares with readers the constraints encountered and experience gained in the PM studies undertaken in Hong Kong.
Cyanobacterial management manual - a practical guide to applying the state of the art
Authors: Burch MD , Newcombe G. , Ho L.
Published: March 2010

This paper introduces a practical guide developed for use by the water industry for the management of toxic cyanobacteria. The guide entitled ‘Management Strategies for Cyanobacteria (Blue-Green Algae) and their Toxins: A Guide for Water Utilities’ (Ho et al., 2009) is a comprehensive guide/manual, which summarises current knowledge on the management of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) and their toxins. The manual covers management strategies for source waters and all stages of the water treatment process. This guide is a consolidated collection of both practical experience and research knowledge developed over the last 20 years within the Australian and international water industry.
High Performance RO Membranes for Desalination and Wastewater Reclamation and Their Operation Results
Authors: Henmi M. , Fusaoka Y. , Tomioka H. , Kurihara M.
Published: March 2010

Reverse osmosis (RO) membrane is one of the most powerful tools for solving the global water crisis, and is used in a variety of water treatment scenes such as drinking water purification, waste-water treatment, boiler feed water production, ultra pure water production for semiconductor industry, etc. The desired performance of RO membrane varies according to quality of feed water being treated, and Toray has been developing RO membranes with suitable characteristic for each operating condition. RO membranes for seawater desalination and wastewater reclamation are especially regarded as most promising targets. Recently, high boron removal and energy saving RO membrane for seawater desalination and low fouling RO membrane for wastewater reclamation have been developed. In this paper, the prospect of attaining these renovative RO membrane, and furthermore, job references will be discussed.
SKYJUICE TECHNOLOGY - A PLAN FOR M.D.G. POTABLE WATER
Authors: Butler Rhett
Published: March 2010

Low cost UF technology has recently been applied for disaster relief and low cost community potable water systems. Conventional membrane technology has been viewed as “inappropriate” and relatively costly. It has not been viewed as a viable option for low cost sustainable potable water supplies. Recent advancements in “very” low pressure ultrafiltration membranes have seen extensive deployment of systems in the developing world. Cost implications are promising. Safe affordable potable water at realistic volumes is now feasible. Water kiosks and “decentralised’ solutions are challenging our established views of how to solve the global potable water issue.
Emerging Contaminants in Drinking Water: Should the Public Be Concerned?
Authors: Giddings M. , Fawell J.
Published: March 2010

Significant media coverage regarding new chemicals being found in water supplies has given rise to public concerns about the safety of their drinking water. Emerging contaminants in drinking water supplies, which include pharmaceuticals, personal care products and endocrine disruptor compounds, have been regularly detected at trace levels in drinking water sources in many countries. Regulators around the world are grappling with questions from the public relating to possible health outcomes from long-term exposure to these contaminants in their drinking water. The presentation will discuss the challenges in addressing public concern about these contaminants and how communicating scientific uncertainties requires a balanced and clear series of messages.