An Integrated Laboratory Method to Measure and Verify Directional Hydraulic Conductivity in Fine-to-Medium Sandy Sediments

The constant-head permeameter test (CHPT) is widely used in sandy samples as a standard method in the laboratory to investigate hydraulic conductivity (K). However, it neither can be used to consistently determine directional hydraulic conductivity (DHC) nor guarantee the comparability of measured K values of samples with different sizes. Therefore, this paper proposes an integrated laboratory method, called modified CHPT (MCHPT), for the efficient determination and verification of consistent DHC values in fine-to-medium sandy sediments, based on a new methodological framework. A precise and standardized procedure for preparing the experimental setup of MCHPT was conducted, based on the integrated experimental setup of CHPT and tracer tests. Moreover, a formula was yielded for the time-optimized sample saturation control. In comparison with grain size-based methods, the validity of consistent Kh and Kv values determined by MCHPT was convincing

Investigating the redox sensitivity of para-toluenesulfonamide (p-TSA) in groundwater

The groundwater downstream of a former sewage irrigation farm in Berlin is contaminated with ammonium (NH4+) and para-toluenesulfonamide (p-TSA), besides other anthropogenic pollutants. In the field, in situ removal of NH4+ by gaseous oxygen (O2) and air injection is currently being tested. A laboratory column experiment using aquifer material and groundwater from the site was performed to determine whether this remediation technology is also feasible to reduce high p-TSA concentrations in the anoxic groundwater. First, the column was operated under anoxic conditions. Later, compressed air was introduced into the system to simulate oxic conditions. Samples were collected from the column outlet before and after the addition of compressed air. The experiment revealed that whereas p-TSA was not removed under anoxic conditions, it was almost fully eliminated under oxic conditions. Results were modelled using a transient one-dimensional solute transport model. The degradation rate constants for p-TSA increased from 2.8E-06 to 7.5E-05 s–1 as a result of microbial adaption to the change of redox conditions. Results show that O2 injection into an anoxic aquifer is a successful strategy for p-TSA remediationInstitute of Geological Sciences, Freie Universität Berlin, AlemaniaDepartment of Biology and Environmental Sciences, Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg, AlemaniaUnidad de Sevilla, Instituto Geológico y Minero de España, EspañaDVGW-Technologiezentrum Wasser, AlemaniaDepartment of Laboratories, Berliner Wasser Betriebe, Alemani

Perimenopause and Postmenopause - Diagnosis and Interventions. Guideline of the DGGG and OEGGG (S3-Level, AWMF Registry Number 015-062, September 2020).

Aim The aim of the interdisciplinary S3-guideline Perimenopause and Postmenopause - Diagnosis and Interventions is to provide help to physicians as they inform women about the physiological changes which occur at this stage of life and the treatment options. The guideline should serve as a basis for decisions taken during routine medical care. This short version lists the statements and recommendations given in the long version of the guideline together with the evidence levels, the level of recommendation, and the strength of consensus. Methods The statements and recommendations are largely based on methodologically high-quality publications. The literature was evaluated by experts and mandate holders using evidence-based medicine (EbM) criteria. The search for evidence was carried out by the Essen Research Institute for Medical Management (EsFoMed). To some extent, this guideline also draws on an evaluation of the evidence used in the NICE guideline on Menopause and the S3-guidelines of the AWMF and has adapted parts of these guidelines. Recommendations Recommendations are given for the following subjects: diagnosis and therapeutic interventions for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, urogynecology, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, dementia, depression, mood swings, hormone therapy and cancer risk, as well as primary ovarian insufficiency

Quantifying the effects of urban stormwater management - towards a novel approach for integrated planning

ABSTRACT Integrated planning of stormwater management requires a quantitative description of positive and negative effects of possible measures. We suggest quantifying these effects with generic performance indicators within eight categories: building physics and services, landscape quality, urban climate, biodiversity, groundwater, surface water, direct costs and indirect environmental costs. First results indicate that the defined performance indicators allow an objective pre-selection of measures based on their ability to reach local stormwater management goals. The final selection of measures should be based on an evaluation for a specific city quarter (to reduce indicator uncertainty) and reviewed by local stake holders