bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chlorate formation in water distribution systems: a modeling study
Authors: Boano Fulvio , Fiore Silvia , Revelli Roberto
Published: December 2015

Chlorine-based disinfection agents are known to favor the production of disinfection by-products (DBPs), whose concentrations are restricted by international guidelines to ensure a safe consumption of drinking water. Hence, it is important to understand the behavior of DBPs within water distribution networks (WDNs) to avoid users' exposure to concentrations higher than guideline values. The build-up in chlorate concentration resulting from chlorinated disinfectants is here simulated with the EPANET 2.0 software for one benchmark WDN serving about 130,000 inhabitants. Chlorate generation was accounted by means of an empirical model, considering different boundary conditions (physicochemical features of raw water, disinfectant dose). The gathered results indicate that increases in chlorate concentration within the considered WDN are narrow. Chlorate neo-formation in the WDN is, however, strictly related to the initial amount of chlorate released by the water treatment plant, i.e., to the input value in the WDN. If chlorate concentration in treatment plants is kept below 700 μg/L (i.e., World Health Organization guideline), depending on the mixing conditions in tanks, the simulation results referred to the considered WDN show that the DBP build-up within the network is limited (in any case lower than 5–7% of the threshold value).
Speeding up the water distribution network design optimization using the ΔQ method
Authors: Ivetić Damjan , Vasilić Željko , Stanić Miloš , Prodanović Dušan
Published: December 2015

To optimize the design of a water distribution network (WDN), a large number of possible solutions need to be examined; hence computation efficiency is an important issue. To accelerate the computation, one can use more powerful computers, parallel computing systems with adapted hydraulic solvers, hybrid algorithms, more efficient hydraulic methods or any combination of these techniques. This paper explores the possibility to speed up optimization using variations of the ΔQ method to solve the network hydraulics. First, the ΔQ method was used inside the evaluation function where each tested alternative was hydraulically solved and ranked. Then, the convergence criterion was relived in order to reduce the computation time. Although the accuracy of the obtained hydraulic results was reduced, these were feasible and interesting solutions. Another modification was tested, where the ΔQ method was used just once to solve the hydraulics of the initial network, and the unknown flow corrections were added to the list of other unknown variables subject to optimization. Two case networks were used for testing and were compared to the results obtained using EPANET2. The obtained results have shown that the use of the ΔQ method in hydraulic computations can significantly accelerate the optimization of WDN.
Multivariate data mining for estimating the rate of discolouration material accumulation in drinking water distribution systems
Authors: Mounce S. R. , Blokker E. J. M. , Husband S. P. , Furnass W. R. , Schaap P. G. , Boxall J. B.
Published: December 2015

Particulate material accumulates over time as cohesive layers on internal pipeline surfaces in water distribution systems (WDS). When mobilised, this material can cause discolouration. This paper explores factors expected to be involved in this accumulation process. Two complementary machine learning methodologies are applied to significant amounts of real world field data from both a qualitative and a quantitative perspective. First, Kohonen self-organising maps were used for integrative and interpretative multivariate data mining of potential factors affecting accumulation. Second, evolutionary polynomial regression (EPR), a hybrid data-driven technique, was applied that combines genetic algorithms with numerical regression for developing easily interpretable mathematical model expressions. EPR was used to explore producing novel simple expressions to highlight important accumulation factors. Three case studies are presented: UK national and two Dutch local studies. The results highlight bulk water iron concentration, pipe material and looped network areas as key descriptive parameters for the UK study. At the local level, a significantly increased third data set allowed K-fold cross validation. The mean cross validation coefficient of determination was 0.945 for training data and 0.930 for testing data for an equation utilising amount of material mobilised and soil temperature for estimating daily regeneration rate. The approach shows promise for developing transferable expressions usable for pro-active WDS management.
Groundwater data network interoperability
Authors: Brodaric Boyan , Booth Nate , Boisvert Eric , Lucido Jessica
Published: December 2015

Water data networks are increasingly being integrated to answer complex scientific questions that often span large geographical areas and cross political borders. Data heterogeneity is a major obstacle that impedes interoperability within and between such networks. It is resolved here for groundwater data at five levels of interoperability, within a Spatial Data Infrastructure architecture. The result is a pair of distinct national groundwater data networks for the United States and Canada, and a combined data network in which they are interoperable. This combined data network enables, for the first time, transparent public access to harmonized groundwater data from both sides of the shared international border.
Hydrology with impact: how does hydrological science inform decision-makers?
Authors: Watts Glenn
Published: December 2015

Water plays a central part in many aspects of life, and good hydrological science is needed to inform many decisions that affect human health and livelihoods. Hydrological scientists are aware of the importance of their work, and make great efforts to develop relevant research and advice. Decision-makers want to use the best science in their decisions, but rarely read academic papers or attend conferences. This gap is often filled either by organisations that aim to bridge the science to policy gap (boundary organisations) or hydrological consultants. Academic hydrologists can aid the efficient transfer of knowledge to practitioners in these organisations by writing review papers, participating in professional conferences and engaging practitioners in their work. Researchers should also try to anticipate future evidence requirements and prepare research that will meet these. Faced with hydrological problems, decision-makers should continue to seek the right professional advice, and hydrological scientists should respect the expertise of decision-makers in making decisions.
Feasibility and uncertainty of using conceptual rainfall-runoff models in design flood estimation
Authors: Zeng Qiang , Chen Hua , Xu Chong-Yu , Jie Meng-Xuan , Hou Yu-Kun
Published: December 2015

Hydrological models are developed for different purposes including flood forecasting, design flood estimation, water resources assessment, and impact study of climate change and land use change, etc. In this study, applicability and uncertainty of two deterministic lumped models, the Xinanjiang (XAJ) model and the Hydrologiska Byråns Vattenbalansavdelning (HBV) model, in design flood estimation are evaluated in a data rich catchment in southern China. Uncertainties of the estimated design flood caused by model equifinality and calibration data period are then assessed using the generalized likelihood uncertainty estimation (GLUE) framework. The results show that: (1) the XAJ model is likely to overestimate the design flood while HBV model underestimates the design flood; (2) the model parameter equifinality has significant impact on the design flood estimation results; (3) with the same length of calibration period, the results of design flood estimation are significantly influenced by which period of the data is used for model calibration; and (4) 15–20 years of calibration data are suggested to be necessary and sufficient for calibrating the two models in the study area.
Analysis and modelling of snow bulk density in the Tyrolean Alps
Authors: Schöber J. , Achleitner S. , Bellinger J. , Kirnbauer R. , Schöberl F.
Published: December 2015

An extensive collection of in-situ snow measurements is used to characterize snow conditions in the entire elevation range of the alpine area of Tyrol, Austria. Regularly observed snow station data are evaluated with respect to mean snow density–time curves of the period 1952–2010. Dependent on the observed snow depth (HS), the snow bulk density (ρ) is statistically modelled for different elevation zones and snow-climate regions. Model improvements allow daily estimates of ρ, and introducing an additional parameter accounting for the decrease of bulk density in relation to new snow data further improved the results. This paper describes the development of an additional model for the glacierized sub-region of the Tyrolean Alps, based on snow course data from the peak snow accumulation period in April/May. The resulting relative errors of the different models range from 13 to 25% for single stations distributed over the entire investigation area and from 5 to 20% for annual snow courses in glacierized catchments. Regression models are most accurate at high elevations and for deep snowpacks. The transferability of the presented models is shown between Austria, Switzerland and Italy.
The variation of stygofauna along a gradient of salinization in a coastal aquifer
Authors: Shapouri M. , Cancela da Fonseca L. , Iepure S. , Stigter T. , Ribeiro L. , Silva A.
Published: December 2015

We examined the variation of stygofauna composition collected in wells, along a gradient in groundwater salinity/conductivity in a coastal aquifer from southern Portugal. The studied coastal aquifer is considered vulnerable to salinization due to seawater intrusion, caused by overexploitation of the aquifer. Knowing the response of the stygofauna species to present levels of groundwater salinity makes it possible to understand and measure the effects of saltwater intrusion on stygofauna, rendering them potential bioindicators of this environmental pressure. Biotic and abiotic sampling was conducted in six shallow wells located in the fresh–saltwater interface of the Arade estuary along the salinity gradient established in the groundwater from the estuary to inland locations (microSiemens/cm). Groundwater salinity was highly correlated with taxa distribution. The stygobites Eucyclops hadjebensis and Acanthocyclops sensitivus, the cosmopolitan Megacyclops viridis and Cypria ophtalmica were particularly associated with low-salinity conditions, whereas Eucyclops graeteri, Megacyclops brachypus and Daphnia pulicaria were related to high-salinity waters. Multivariate analyses indicated that stygofauna assemblages varied significantly with location. We suggest that stygofauna composition and structure can be a useful complementing tool for monitoring seawater intrusion into coastal aquifers, where reduction or deterioration in groundwater resources is predicted.
The heterogeneity of 3-D vertical hydraulic conductivity in a streambed
Authors: Wu Guangdong , Shu Longcang , Lu Chengpeng , Chen Xunhong
Published: December 2015

The heterogeneity of vertical hydraulic conductivity (Kv) is a key attribute of streambed for researchers investigating surface water–groundwater interaction. However, few three-dimensional (3-D) Kv models with high spatial resolutions have been achieved. In this study, in-situ permeameter tests were conducted to obtain Kv values. A 3-D model with 443 Kv values was built comprising 10 lines, 10 rows, and five layers. Statistical analysis was done to reveal the spatial characteristics of Kv. The influence of bedform on Kv values was restricted to the near-surface streambed. Kv increased with the increasing distance from the south river bank for the upmost layer, but it was not the case for other layers and the combined Kv values of five layers; the spatial pattern at transects across the channel did not differ significantly. The Kv values of each layer pertained to different populations; the sediments of individual layers were formed under different sedimentation environments. The coupling of erosion/deposition process and transport of fine materials primarily contributed to a reduction of the mean and median of Kv values and an increase of heterogeneity of Kv values with depth. Thus, a collection of Kv values obtained from different layers should be considered when characterizing the heterogeneity of streambed.
Handwashing promotion in humanitarian emergencies: strategies and challenges according to experts
Authors: Vujcic Jelena , Ram Pavani K. , Blum Lauren S.
Published: December 2015

Diarrhea and acute respiratory infections account for nearly 30% of deaths among children displaced by humanitarian emergencies. Handwashing with soap reduces the risk of diarrhea and acute respiratory infection in non-emergency settings. However, the practice and the effectiveness of handwashing promotion efforts and the health benefits are not well documented in emergency settings. We conducted key informant interviews with 12 experts working in water, sanitation, and hygiene and examined current approaches, challenges, and knowledge gaps in relation to handwashing promotion in emergency settings. We identified many constraints to implementing effective handwashing promotion efforts including a failure to define objectives and targets for improvements in handwashing rates, lack of technical expertise and attention to the development and implementation of effective behavior change communication approaches, and limited understanding of the appropriateness, use, and acceptability of different handwashing hardware. Respondents identified multiple knowledge gaps and research needs that could improve current efforts. Collaborations between response agencies and research institutions could generate high quality data and facilitate contextualized and potentially more effective and robust handwashing promotion strategies.
Quantifying the contribution of climate- and human-induced runoff decrease in the Luanhe river basin, China
Authors: Li Jianzhu , Zhou Shuhan
Published: December 2015

Climate variability and human activities are two main factors influencing hydrological processes. For more reasonable water management, understanding and quantifying the contributions of the two factors to runoff change is a prerequisite. In this paper, the Budyko decomposition hypothesis and the geometric approach were employed to quantify climate change and human activities on mean annual runoff (MAR) in six sub-basins of Luanhe river basin. We split a long-term period (1956–2011) into two sub-periods (pre-change and post-change periods) to quantify the change over time. Observations show that annual runoff has had a decreasing trend during the past 56 years in the Luanhe river basin. Based on a geometric approach, the climate impacts in these six sub-basins were 7–49%, and the contributions of human activities were 51–93%, approximately. According to the Budyko decomposition method, impacts of climate variation accounted for 15–40% of the runoff decrease, and the contribution of human activities was 60–85%. Both methods were simple to understand, and it is feasible to separate the climatic- and human-induced impacts on MAR. This study could provide significant information for water resources managers.
A global assessment of basin plans: definitions, lessons, recommendations
Authors: Kazbekov Jusipbek , Tagutanazvo Emelder , Lautze Jonathan
Published: December 2015

Basin plans have become a core element of water management in the 21st century. Systematic analytical scrutiny of the contents of basin plans is nonetheless scant. This paper develops a framework for assessing basin plans and systematically applies it to understand how contents of basin plans vary. The paper synthesizes a definition of ‘basin plan’, generates a classification system for basin plans, and proceeds to classify a regionally diverse set of 23 basin plans. Major findings are that basin plans typically contain the components and sub-components suggested in best-practice guidelines. Focus on some issues that are presumably central to water management such as water quality and quantity is nonetheless comparatively low. Disaggregating basin plans suggests that developing-country transboundary plans are more geared towards hydropower development, navigation and coping with uncertainty, while developed-country and national plans appear to focus more on issues such as water quality and fish management. It is hoped that findings contained in this paper support future basin plan development by informing those crafting basin plans of the options available to them.
Anatomy of a deadlock: a systemic analysis of why the Gabčíkovo–Nagymaros dam dispute is still unresolved
Authors: Baranyai Gábor , Bartus Gábor
Published: December 2015

The most high profile transboundary water dispute to ever reach the International Court of Justice – the Gabčíkovo–Nagymaros case – remains unresolved 18 years after the delivery of the judgement. This article suggests that there are at least three structural causes that prevent the parties – Hungary and Slovakia – from coming to an agreement. First is the judgement of the Court itself that has created an ambiguous legal situation that actually helped the parties to reinforce their pre-litigation positions. Second, the Gabčíkovo–Nagymaros dam complex gained an unexpectedly powerful symbolic value in both countries whose antagonistic nature still holds a strong grip on the two governments. Finally, these circumstances have given rise to a negotiating dynamic that is characterised by mutual distrust and dominated by the fear of loss. Consequently, while both countries are aware of what the final outcome should and could be, they are unable to get there as the lack of consensus on the starting conditions of the negotiations and the domestic political domain leaves almost no space for rational concessions. The Gabčíkovo–Nagymaros case is therefore likely to remain unresolved, unless the parties manage to find a new positive negotiating paradigm that subsumes the old rivalry of the underlying dam dispute.
The electricity–water nexus: is a crisis imminent?
Authors: Berkman Mark
Published: December 2015

Several recent studies have warned that there will be widespread water shortages in many regions of the USA in the near future largely because of high demand for water in the production of electricity. This study reviews studies addressing electricity generation and water availability and concludes that electricity production is not likely to lead to water shortages in most regions for several reasons. First, the alarmist studies erroneously rely on water withdrawals rather than water consumption to measure gaps between water demand and supply. Second, these studies fail to account for market dynamics, which will lead to improvements in greater water recycling and reuse as well as new resources on the supply side, and conservation and improved efficiency via new technology on the demand side. Electricity is increasingly generated by low water use technologies such as solar and wind. In addition, fossil-fired power plant technologies exist that greatly reduce water withdrawals and consumption. As water prices rise in the face of tighter supplies these technologies will become more attractive. Third, policies designed to overcome market failures related to pricing regulation, water rights, and government boundaries can reduce, if not eliminate, widespread electricity and water shortages.
The Sarsang reservoir in Upper Karabakh: politicization of an environmental challenge in the framework of a territorial dispute
Authors: Leylekian Laurent
Published: December 2015

This paper explores the dispute between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Republic of Upper Karabakh with regard to the Sarsang reservoir and the associated water management by the latter. After illustrating the politicization of the environmental challenge by recent hostile initiatives taken by the parties, the article points out the lack of reliable statistics on water usage and needs for riparian countries. It highlights the matter of associated semantics as well as the poor commitments of these countries with regard to international water conventions. Finally, the paper suggests that the water issue could be disconnected from the political conflict and discusses the possibility to capitalize on past similar transboundary water issues to overcome the obstacles. It concludes on a possible process for relevant international technical committees to embark upon a separate water-related mediation based on water needs as a ‘public good’.
PPP arrangements in the Brazilian water sector: a double-edged sword
Authors: Marques Rui Cunha
Published: December 2015

Public-private partnership (PPP) arrangements have been used all over the world to develop infrastructure and provide public services. The principle of this procurement option seems sound. It consists of obtaining a (private) partner who makes the upfront initial investments, manages the infrastructure that will be paid for during its lifespan and assumes all of the corresponding responsibilities. However, the empirical world has proven that frequently results are different from those expected and that the price to pay for service is greater than predicted and sometimes even greater than when traditional public works are involved. With respect to the use of PPP projects, Brazil is no exception. Currently, it is making one of the biggest PPP investments in the world. This paper discusses the use of the PPP model in the Brazilian water sector, its pros and cons and the existing dangers. It also makes some recommendations to improve these contracts. Although the balance seems positive, this research provides some evidence of room for improvement because preliminary studies and procurement documents are seldom well prepared, there is little competition, the risk matrix is unbalanced, favoring renegotiations and the private sector, and contract management is inadequate.
The Supreme Court of India and Inter-State water dispute: an analysis of the judgments on Mullaperiyar Dam
Authors: Ram Mohan M. P. , Chavaly Krittika
Published: December 2015

This paper addresses the issue of the Mullaperiyar Dam dispute between Kerala and Tamil Nadu with specific reference to the two judgments delivered by the Supreme Court of India on the matter. This paper attempts to examine the arguments, facts, and the judgment of the Court on each of the primary issues raised during the course of the dispute. The first case was filed by the Mullaperiyar Environmental Protection Forum in 2001, wherein the Court adjudged the case in favour of the respondents, the State of Tamil Nadu. Consequently, due to certain developments, examined in the course of the second case, the State of Tamil Nadu filed a petition before the Supreme Court against Kerala in 2006 seeking relief for the actions on the part of the latter after the judgment in the first case. A Constitution Bench was constituted to adjudicate this case, which re-examined certain issues raised during the first case and conclusively laid down its decision in favour of Tamil Nadu.
Institutional evolution of Missouri river management
Authors: Hearne Robert R. , Prato Tony
Published: December 2015

The Missouri River is the longest river in North America and flows from the semi-arid western states to the relatively moist Midwest. An integrated system of large reservoirs, constructed in the mid-20th century, provides important water storage, hydroelectricity and flood control benefits. This system has been managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers which has traditionally followed its original mandate to support navigation and flood control. As water uses and societal values have evolved, the management of the river has slowly evolved, and the Army Corps of Engineers has adopted adaptive management to incorporate biological uncertainties into its decision-making. Other evolution, including the incorporation of economic incentives into water management, has failed to occur.
Water insecurity in Indigenous Canada: a community-based inter-disciplinary approach
Authors: Hanrahan Maura , Sarkar Atanu , Hudson Amy
Published: December 2015

Water insecurity in Northern Indigenous communities in Canada remains a pressing problem, with multiple dimensions and health impacts. We carried out a case study of long-term water insecurity in the Southern Inuit island community of Black Tickle, Labrador, where there is no piped water and people rely on an under-funded potable water dispensing unit (PWDU) and unmonitored water sources. Our community-based multi-disciplinary project involved qualitative and quantitative methods including key informant interviews, focus groups, a census, a literature review, water testing, and an engineering site visit. In Black Tickle, water security was chronically and severely compromised and was linked to poverty, food insecurity, men's health, and mental health. We have taken a materialist approach; accordingly, later project phases involve research aimed at identifying appropriate solutions, and conducting pre-engineering and engineering work. This article reports on the first two phases of the project, through which we described the problem and identified its impacts.
Effect of soil texture on water infiltration in semiarid reclaimed land
Authors: Ma Wenmei , Zhang Xingchang , Zhen Qing , Zhang Yanjiang
Published: December 2015

The infiltration of water and its influencing factors in disturbed or reclaimed land are not well understood. A better understanding would provide essential information for assessing the hydrological processes in disturbed ecosystems. We measured the infiltration of water in soils from loamy and sandy reclaimed land. The relationships between infiltration and soil properties were analyzed based on three models: the Kostiakov, Philip, and Green–Ampt equations. Our objectives were to understand water infiltration in reclaimed land with a variety of soil textures and to establish the dependence of water infiltration on soil properties. Both the rate of infiltration and the cumulative infiltration were higher in sandy than in loamy soils. The rate of infiltration and the cumulative infiltration decreased with soil depth in undisturbed land. The sorptivity rate (S) from the Philip equation, empirical coefficient (K) from the Kostiakov equation, and the satiated hydraulic conductivity (Ksl) from the Green–Ampt equation were 22%, 16%, and 7.1% higher, respectively, in sandy than in loamy soils. The Ksl increased significantly with Ks (saturated hydraulic conductivity) in both sandy and loamy soils. These indicated that the Green–Ampt equation can be used to describe Ks and the characteristics of infiltration for soils on disturbed land.
Incentives and disincentives identified by producers and drainage contractors/experts on the adoption of controlled tile drainage in eastern Ontario, Canada
Authors: Dring Colin , Devlin John F. , Boag Gemma , Sunohara Mark D. , Fitzgibbon John , Topp Edward , Lapen David R.
Published: December 2015

This study investigates incentives and disincentives regarding adoption of controlled tile drainage (CTD) in a region of eastern Ontario, Canada, where CTD could be used prolifically from a biophysical standpoint, but is not. Irrespective of documented environmental and agronomic benefits of CTD, adoption remains low. Surveys and semi-structured interviews with producers and drainage contractors/experts were used to evaluate awareness of CTD and identify producer adoption impediments. Surveys indicated nearly 70% of producer respondents had heard about CTD. Top ranked incentives identified by producers (who adopted) and drainage contractors/experts combined were: soil water retention benefits, increased crop yields, and gratification improving the environment. Top ranked disincentives combined by target groups were: increased farm labor, perceived lack of extension services, and costs. Many producer adopters emphasized motivators grounded in personal or community bearing, such as peer interaction and doing the right thing for the environment. Drainage contractors emphasized adoption impediments tied to a perceived lack of extension support for CTD. Drainage contractors themselves desired more extension support and firm data/research foundations with respect to advocating CTD to clients. With respect to motivation for producers to adopt CTD, this latter point may be critical given that producers highly valued drainage contractors as an information source on drainage practices.
Adsorption of Cu(II) on natural and treated clays
Authors: Djebbar Mustapha , Djafri Fatiha
Published: December 2015

We have studied the pH and the temperature effects on copper ions' adsorption on natural and treated clays from Algeria. The clay was also treated to improve the adsorption capacity. X-ray diffraction identified montmorillonite and kaolinite as major clay minerals. The Langmuir adsorption model was used for the mathematical description of the adsorption equilibrium and the equilibrium data adhered very well to this model. The treated and natural clay had a monolayer adsorption capacity equal to 15.40 and 12.22 mg/g, respectively, at pH value of 6.5 and temperature 20 °C, the adsorption isotherms could be fitted with Langmuir isotherms, and the coefficients indicated favorable adsorption of Cu(II) on the clays. Determination of the thermodynamic parameters, H, S, and G showed that the adsorption process was spontaneous and exothermic accompanied by a decrease in entropy and Gibbs energy. Results of this study will be useful for future scale-up for using this material as a low-cost adsorbent for the removal of Cu(II) from wastewater.
Evaluation of water demand and supply in the south of Iraq
Authors: Al-Furaiji M. H. O. , Karim U. F. A. , Augustijn D. C. M. , Waisi B. I. H. , Hulscher S. J. M. H.
Published: December 2015

This paper presents results from the first study that focuses on water resources availability and demand for different purposes in the four oil-rich provinces of southern Iraq. The region accounts for 23% of the surface area and 18% of the country's population, but holds 88% of its oil. A water shortage of 430 Mm3/year for 2010 is estimated for this region where irrigation accounts for 81% of the total water demand. Dhi Qar is the largest agricultural producer and water consumer while Al Basrah and Al Muthanna have the largest water shortages among the four provinces. The interrelationship of energy–water production and utilization is discussed and the annual water balance for irrigation, industrial, domestic and livestock usage in the different provinces determined. On this basis recommendations are made for treating and utilizing the steadily increasing amounts of water produced from the oilfields to supplement the other sustainable water resources in that region.
Chemometrics-enhanced simultaneous spectrophotometric determination of aluminum and bismuth with hematoxylin in vegetables and water using multivariate calibration
Authors: Bagheban-Shahri Fatemeh , Niazi Ali
Published: December 2015

A simple, novel and sensitive spectrophotometric method was described for simultaneous determination of aluminum and bismuth mixtures. All factors affecting the sensitivity were optimized, and the linear dynamic range for determination of aluminum and bismuth found. The simultaneous determination of aluminum and bismuth and use of spectrophotometric methods is a difficult problem due to the spectral interference. The multivariate chemometrics methods were used for this study. Chemometrics methods such as continuous wavelet transform (CWT), wavelet orthogonal signal correction-partial least squares (WOSC-PLS) and least squares-support vector machine (LS-SVM) methods were used without prior separation steps. The method is based on the colored complexes formed by aluminum and bismuth with hematoxylin in the presence of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide as a surfactant at pH 5.8. In this study, absorption spectra were recorded in the wavelength range 400–650 nm. The results showed that aluminum and bismuth could be determined simultaneously in the range of 0.1–11.0 and 0.1–7.0 μg mL–1, respectively. The validation of the developed methods was tested by analyzing various synthetic mixtures of the aluminum and bismuth. The proposed methods have been applied to the simultaneous determination of aluminum and bismuth in vegetables and different water samples.
Enhanced bioremediation of crude oil in polluted beach sand by the combination of bioaugmentation and biodiesel
Authors: Li Tiejun , Hu Hongmei , Jin Lei , Xue Bin , Zhang Yurong , Guo Yuanming
Published: December 2015

Biodiesel produced from rapeseed oil was used as a cost-effective and sustainable agent to enhance crude oil biodegradation in sand microcosms. The initial concentration of crude oil and total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) was 20,000 and 18,750 mg/kg, respectively. The mass ratio of biodiesel to crude oil was 0 (designated T1), 1:10 (designated T2), 1:4 (designated T3), and 1:2 (designated T4). After 80 days of incubation, the total removals of TPH and PAHs were 68.6 and 61.5% in T1, 78.0 and 67.3% in T2, 86.3 and 76.2% in T3, 72.2 and 57.9% in T4, respectively. Higher amounts of biodiesel reduced TPH biodegradation due to the decreased transfer of substrates caused by dilution effect. The addition of biodiesel stimulated bacterial growth during the initial period but the petroleum hydrocarbon degradation is not always correlated with the density of bacteria in the presence of biodiesel. Dehydrogenase activity (DHA) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity increased greatly after the beginning of incubation. From then on, DHA continuously decreased with time. T3 had the highest DHA and PPO activity from day 30 to the end of the experiment. The lowest toxicity was observed in T3 at day 80, and T3 showed the highest degradation rate constant.
Thermodynamics, kinetics and isotherm studies on the removal of methylene blue from aqueous solution by calcium alginate
Authors: Zhang Jixiang , Zhang Guangxia , Zhou Qiuxiang , Ou Lailiang
Published: December 2015

Calcium alginate (CA) was used as an adsorbent to remove methylene blue (MB) from aqueous solution. The effect of initial dye concentration, contact time, temperature and solution pH on the adsorption of MB onto CA was investigated by batch experiments. The percentage removal of MB decreased with increasing temperature. Comparatively high adsorption capacities were shown over a wide pH range (pH 2–11). More than 93% of MB removal was obtained within 30 min for an initial dye concentration of 1,000 mg/L at an adsorbent dose of 4 g/L. The adsorption equilibrium was investigated by the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms. The maximum adsorption capacity was 2,355.4 mg/g on the basis of the Langmuir isotherm. Thermodynamic parameters were evaluated, and revealed that the adsorption process was a spontaneous, exothermic and entropy-reduced process. Pseudo-first, pseudo-second and intra-particle diffusion kinetic models were applied to the experimental data, and the results showed that the adsorption was in good agreement with the pseudo-second order kinetic model. Desorption studies implied that CA could be a useful adsorbent for the removal of MB from aqueous solution.
In vitro and In silico: Selectivities of Seychellene Compound as Candidate Cyclooxygenase Isoenzyme Inhibitor on Pre-Osteoblast Cells
Authors: Raharjo Sentot J. , Mahdi Chanif , Nurdiana Nurdiana , Kikuchi Takheshi , Fatchiyah Fatchiyah
Published: December 2015

Objective:

To determine selectivity's single and cluster of the seychellene
(CID519743) compound such as cyclooxygenase (COX-1/ COX-2) inhibitor by invitro
and In silico analysis.

Methods:

Fraction of seychellene obtained fractional-vacuum distillation patchouli
oil by Pilodist-104. The fraction was determined through IC50 COX-1/ COX-2 value
by colorimetric test COX-ovine 760700 and the effect decreases the expression of
COX-1/ COX-2 on pre-osteoblast cell to induce LPS. Molecular interaction studies
single/ cluster of seychellene and other compounds with COX-1 and COX-2 used
the molecular docking tools by Hex 8.0 and the interactions were further visualized
and the binding energy was calculated (with Generalized Born Molecular Volume
(GBMV) model solvent) using Discovery Studio Client 3.5 software.

Result:

Fraction of seychellene obtained from patchouli oil in fraction-5 (25.05%). The IC50 values of
fraction-5 were: COX-1 (73.47μM) and COX-2 (73.31μM). The fraction of seychellene decreased the
expression of COX-1/ COX-2 isoenzym. In silico analyses of scoring binding energy calculation (with
GBMV model solvent) of single and cluster seychellene compounds affected the selectivity of COX-1
and COX-2 inhibitor.

Conclusion:

Collectively, selectivity's of the seychellene compound as non-selective inhibitor
cyclooxygenase.
Risk, Risk Reduction and Management of Occult Malignancy Diagnosed after Uterine Morcellation: A Commentary
Authors: Lynam Sarah , Young Laura , Morozov Vadim , Rao Gautam , Roque Dana M
Published: December 2015

Minimally invasive surgical techniques compared with laparotomy offer the advantages of less intraoperative blood loss, shorter hospitalization, fewer wound complications and faster return to baseline activity for both hysterectomy and myomectomy. While morcellation allows for the laparoscopic removal of large specimens, it may result in intraperitoneal dissemination of benign disease or upstaging of occult malignancy leading to compromised survival. There has been heightened scrutiny over appropriate patient selection and preoperative assessment in light of recent warnings against power morcellation issued by the US FDA. This commentary therefore summarizes the magnitude of such risks associated with uterine morcellation, current national regulatory statements and potential merits of risk-reducing approaches such as contained morcellation. The importance of patient counseling is underscored.
Addressing Gaps in the Contraceptive Method Mix: Methods in Development
Authors: Nanda Kavita , Callahan Rebecca , Dorflinger Laneta
Published: December 2015

Despite the availability of a variety of contraceptive methods, millions of women still have an unmet need for contraceptive choices. Short-acting methods are plagued by issues with adherence, leading to imperfect or inconsistent use and subsequent unintended pregnancy. Long-acting contraceptive methods such as intrauterine devices and contraceptive implants, while providing highly effective and safe contraception, do not meet the needs of all women, often due to cost, access or acceptability issues. Several new methods are in various stages of development and are designed to address the shortcomings of current methods. Providers should be aware of these future options and how they might better meet women's needs.
Design And Rotor Geometry Analysis Of Permanent Magnet–Assisted Synchronous Reluctance Machines Using Ferrite Magnet
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Zhou Libing
Published: December 2015

Various electric machines can be the candidate for electric vehicles applications, including induction machines, permanent magnet synchronous machines, switched reluctance machines, etc. Another class of machine, which has been relatively ignored, is synchronous reluctance machines. In order to enhance and increase torque density of pure synchronous reluctance machines, the low cost permanent magnet can be inserted into rotor lamination to contribute torque production, which is so-called permanent magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance machines. This paper presents the design and rotor geometry analysis of low cost ferrite permanent magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance machines with transversally-laminated rotor. The advanced finite element method will be employed to calculate d-axis and q-axis inductance variation with rotor geometric parameters. The electromagnetic performance of optimized permanent magnet-assisted synchronous reluctance machines will be evaluated as well.
Edward Greenspan: A Feminist Reflection on the Eulogies Surrounding His Death
Authors: Backhouse Constance
Published: December 2015

This article reviews the commentary published about the career of Toronto criminal defence lawyer Edward Greenspan, following his death in December 2014. It considers his iconic reputation in light of feminist concerns about the injustices of the criminal justice system in the areas of sexual assault and violence against women.
L2 Academic Discourse Socialization through Oral Presentations: An Undergraduate Student’s Learning Trajectory in Study Abroad
Authors: Kobayashi Masaki
Published: December 2015

The present study provides an in-depth, longitudinal account of an undergraduate student’s L2 discourse socialization in an academic exchange program in Canada. By invoking Rogoff’s (1995) notion of participatory appropriation, this qualitative case study examined an L2 student’s task-related strategies and performance as they evolved over time in a study-abroad context. Thus, it revealed the cumulative effects of her participation in the development of knowledge and skills required to accomplish her academic presentation tasks at an appropriate level of sophistication. Data, collected over an entire academic year, included audio-recorded observations, in-depth interviews, and relevant written products. The findings indicate that the focal student’s academic discourse socialization was a dynamic, intertextual process of acting continuously on the challenges and opportunities that her previous experiences afforded her. Her participation was both guided by different co-participants and contingent upon the series of agentive choices that she made about her tasks.
Exopolysaccharide and lactic acid bacteria: Perception, functionality and prospects
Authors: Bajpai Vivek K. , Rather Irfan A. , Majumder Rajib , Shukla Shruti , Aeron Abhinav , Kim Kangmin , Kang Sun Chul , Dubey R. C. , Maheshwari D. K. , Lim Jeongheui , Park Yong-Ha
Published: December 2015

Lactic acid bacteria exhibit the most effective potential to divert significant amount of fermentable sugars towards the biosynthesis of functional exopolysaccharide. Exopolysaccharides from lactic acid bacteria are receiving a renewed interest due to the claims of human health benefits. This review provides an update on multiple uses and production of exopolysaccharides with major emphasis on their chemical properties, characterization, and some other molecular strategies adopted for their genetics and biological tailoring to better understand the process of exopolysaccharide production along with their antiviral efficacy with multiple modes of action. Additionally, microbiological, biochemical, nutritional and biotechnological aspects of exopolysaccharide production have also been discussed. Moreover, appro-priate suggestions have been made on lactic acid bacteria improvements, leading to enhanced production with advanced modification and production process that may contribute to the economic soundness of applications in food and pharmacological industries with this promising group of biomolecules.

 
Experimental strategy of animal trial for the approval of anti-diabetic agents prior to their use in pre-human clinical trials
Authors: Bajpai Vivek K. , Rather Irfan A. , Nam Gyeong-Jun
Published: December 2015

Although several naturally available drugs have been historically used for the treatment of diabetes mellitus throughout the world, few of them have been validated by scientific criteria. Before approval of any drug developed it should pass through animal trial prior to clinical human trial, which should followed by some standard ethical rules. Recently, a large diversity of animal models have been developed to better understand the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus, and new drugs have been introduced in the market to treat this autoimmune disease. In the present article, we demonstrated some standard handling procedure of animal trial for the approval of anti-diabetic drug, which could be helpful for both academics and industrial scientific community to conduct the animal experiments. This research also contributes in the field of ethnopharmacology to design new strategies for the development of novel drugs to treat this serious condition of diabetes mellitus that constitutes a global public health.

 

VIDEO CLIPS

Handling and caring of mice:                                              2 min 30 sec

Inducing diabetes in mice and observing blood glucose level:   1 min 47 sec

Drug administration and observation of blood glucose level:    2 min 11 sec

 
Stromal Fat Content of the Parathyroid Gland  A Study on 60 Autopsy Cases
Authors: Nurunnabi Abu Sadat Mohammad , Mahbub Sabiha , Ara Shamim
Published: December 2015

Controversies prevail in literatures about fat content of the parathyroid glands and no histological study was done before to observe the change with increasing age in a Bangladeshi population. The aim of the study was to determine the percentage of stromal fat in the parathyroid glands in different age in a Bangladeshi population. This cross-sectional, descriptive study was done in the Department of Anatomy, Dhaka Medical College, Dhaka, from January to October 2011. A total of 207 post mortem parathyroid glands of were collected from 60 Bangladeshi people of different age (unclaimed autopsied dead bodies, within 24-36 hours of death without any sign of putrefaction). The samples were divided into three groups i.e. A (11-30years), B (31-60years), and C (61-90years). Tissue blocks of the parathyroid gland were fixed in 10% formol saline, cut at 5µm thickness and stained with routine Harris Haematoxylin and Eosin (H & E) stain. From each age group 20 best prepared slides were taken. The proportion of fat of the parathyroid gland was determined with the point counting Zeiss-I integrating eyepiece under the light microscope. The data were collected from the histological study and statistical analyses were done by one-way ANOVA test. All the statistical analyses were done by using SPSS 13.0 version. The mean amount of stromal fat was found 35.65±1.63%, 42.56±1.27%, and 46.38±1.54% in group A, B and C respectively. The differences among the groups were statistically significant (P 0.001). The percentage of stromal fat of the parathyroid gland was found to increase with age in Bangladeshi people.Medicine Today 2015 Vol.27(1): 1-3