Abstract: Aluminum salt that is generally presents as a solid
phase in the water purification sludge (WPS) can be dissolved,
recovering a liquid phase, by adding strong acid to the sludge solution.
According to the reaction kinetics, when reactant is in the form of
small particles with a large specific surface area, or when the reaction
temperature is high, the quantity of dissolved aluminum salt or
reaction rate, respectively are high. Therefore, in this investigation,
water purification sludge (WPS) solution was treated with ultrasonic
waves to break down the sludge, and different acids (1 N HCl and 1 N
H2SO4) were used to acidify it. Acid dosages that yielded the solution
pH of less than two were used. The results thus obtained indicate that
the quantity of dissolved aluminum in H2SO4-acidified solution
exceeded that in HCl-acidified solution. Additionally, ultrasonic
treatment increased the rate of dissolution of aluminum and the
amount dissolved. The quantity of aluminum dissolved at 60℃ was 1.5
to 2.0 times higher than that at 25℃.
Abstract: It is by reason of the unified measure of varieties of resources and the unified processing of the disposal of varieties of resources, that these closely related three of new basic models called the resources assembled node and the disposition integrated node as well as the intelligent organizing node are put forth in this paper; the three closely related quantities of integrative analytical mechanics including the disposal intensity and disposal- weighted intensity as well as the charge of resource charge are set; and then the resources assembled space and the disposition integrated space as well as the intelligent organizing space are put forth. The system of fundamental equations and model of complete factor synergetics is preliminarily approached for the general situation in this paper, to form the analytical base of complete factor synergetics. By the essential variables constituting this system of equations we should set twenty variables respectively with relation to the essential dynamical effect, external synergetic action and internal synergetic action of the system.
Abstract: In order to meet environmental norms, Indian fuel
policy aims at producing ultra low sulphur diesel (ULSD) in near
future. A catalyst for meeting such requirements has been developed
and kinetics of this catalytic process is being looked into. In the
present investigations, effect of mass transfer on kinetics of ultra deep
hydrodesulphurization (UDHDS) to produce ULSD has been studied
to determine intrinsic kinetics over a pre-sulphided catalyst.
Experiments have been carried out in a continuous flow micro reactor
operated in the temperature range of 330 to 3600C, whsv of 1 hr-1 at a
pressure of 35 bar, and its parameters estimated. Based on the derived
rate expression and estimated parameters optimum operation range
has been determined for this UDHDS catalyst to obtain ULSD
product.
Abstract: Geosynthetics have proved to be suitable for
reinforced soil retaining walls. Based on the increasing uses of
geosynthetic reinforced soil systems in the regions, which bear
frequent earthquakes, the study of dynamic behavior of structures
seems necessary. Determining the reinforcement forces is; therefore,
one of the most important and main points of discussions in
designing retaining walls, by which we prevent from conservative
planning. Thus, this paper intended to investigate the effects of such
parameters as wall height, acceleration type, vertical spacing of
reinforcement, type of reinforcement and soil type on forces and
deformation through numerical modeling of the geosynthetic
reinforced soil retaining walls (GRSRW) under dynamic loading with
finite difference method by using FLAC. The findings indicate rather
positive results with each parameter.
Abstract: Our objectives were to evaluate the effects of sire
breed, type of protein supplement, level of supplementation and sex
on wool spinning fineness (SF), its correlations with other wool
characteristics and prediction accuracy in F1 Merino crossbred lambs.
Texel, Coopworth, White Suffolk, East Friesian and Dorset rams
were mated with 500 purebred Merino dams at a ratio of 1:100 in
separate paddocks within a single management system. The F1
progeny were raised on ryegrass pasture until weaning, before forty
lambs were randomly allocated to treatments in a 5 x 2 x 2 x 2
factorial experimental design representing 5 sire breeds, 2
supplementary feeds (canola or lupins), 2 levels of supplementation
(1% or 2% of liveweight) and sex (wethers or ewes). Lambs were
supplemented for six weeks after an initial three weeks of adjustment,
wool sampled at the commencement and conclusion of the feeding
trial and analyzed for SF, mean fibre diameter (FD), coefficient of
variation (CV), standard deviation, comfort factor (CF), fibre
curvature (CURV), and clean fleece yield. Data were analyzed using
mixed linear model procedures with sire fitted as a random effect,
and sire breed, sex, supplementary feed type, level of
supplementation and their second-order interactions as fixed effects.
Sire breed (P
Abstract: A feasibility study for the design and construction of a
pilot plant for the extraction of castor oil in South Africa was
conducted. The study emphasized the four critical aspects of project
feasibility analysis, namely technical, financial, market and
managerial aspects. The technical aspect involved research on
existing oil extraction technologies, namely: mechanical pressing and
solvent extraction, as well as assessment of the proposed production
site for both short and long term viability of the project. The site is
on the outskirts of Nkomazi village in the Mpumalanga province,
where connections for water and electricity are currently underway,
potential raw material supply proves to be reliable since the province
is known for its commercial farming. The managerial aspect was
evaluated based on the fact that the current producer of castor oil will
be fully involved in the project while receiving training and technical
assistance from Sasol Technology, the TSC and SEDA. Market and
financial aspects were evaluated and the project was considered
financially viable with a Net Present Value (NPV) of R2 731 687 and
an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 18% at an annual interest rate of
10.5%. The payback time is 6years for analysis over the first 10
years with a net income of R1 971 000 in the first year. The project
was thus found to be feasible with high chance of success while
contributing to socio-economic development. It was recommended
for lab tests to be conducted to establish process kinetics that would
be used in the initial design of the plant.
Abstract: Durian husk (DH), a fruit waste, was studied for its ability to remove Basic blue 3 (BB3) from aqueous solutions. Batch kinetic studies were carried out to study the sorption characteristics under various experimental conditions. The optimum pH for the dye removal occurred in the pH range of 3-10. Sorption was found to be concentration and agitation dependent. The kinetics of dye sorption fitted a pseudo-second order rate expression. Both Langmuir and Freundlich models appeared to provide reasonable fittings for the sorption data of BB3 on durian husk. Maximum sorption capacity calculated from the Langmuir model is 49.50 mg g-1.
Abstract: The morphology, mineralogical and chemical
composition of a low-grade nickel ore from Mpumalanga, South
Africa, were studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray
diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF), respectively. The
ore was subjected to atmospheric agitation leaching using sulphuric
acid to investigate the effects of acid concentration, leaching
temperature, leaching time and particle size on extraction of nickel
and cobalt. Analyses results indicated the ore to be a saprolitic nickel
laterite belonging to the serpentine group of minerals. Sulphuric acid
was found to be able to extract nickel from the ore. Increased acid
concentration and temperature only produced low amounts of nickel
but improved cobalt extraction. As high as 77.44% Ni was achieved
when leaching a -106+75μm fraction with 4.0M acid concentration at
25oC. The kinetics of nickel leaching from the saprolitic ore were
studied and the activation energy was determined to be 18.16kJ/mol.
This indicated that nickel leaching reaction was diffusion controlled.
Abstract: Numerical study of two dimensional supersonic
hydrogen-air mixing layer is performed to investigate the effect of
turbulence and chemical additive on ignition distance. Chemical
reaction is treated using detail kinetics. Advection upstream splitting
method is used to calculate the fluxes and one equation turbulence
model is chosen here to simulate the considered problem. Hydrogen
peroxide is used as an additive and the results show that inflow
turbulence and chemical additive may drastically decrease the
ignition delay in supersonic combustion.
Abstract: We have studied the migration of a charged permeable aggregate in electrolyte under the influence of an axial electric field and pressure gradient. The migration of the positively charged aggregate leads to a deformation of the anionic cloud around it. The hydrodynamics of the aggregate is governed by the interaction of electroosmotic flow in and around the particle, hydrodynamic friction and electric force experienced by the aggregate. We have computed the non-linear Nernest-Planck equations coupled with the Dracy- Brinkman extended Navier-Stokes equations and Poisson equation for electric field through a finite volume method. The permeability of the aggregate enable the counterion penetration. The penetration of counterions depends on the volume charge density of the aggregate and ionic concentration of electrolytes at a fixed field strength. The retardation effect due to the double layer polarization increases the drag force compared to an uncharged aggregate. Increase in migration sped from the electrophretic velocity of the aggregate produces further asymmetry in charge cloud and reduces the electric body force exerted on the particle. The permeability of the particle have relatively little influence on the electric body force when Double layer is relatively thin. The impact of the key parameters of electrokinetics on the hydrodynamics of the aggregate is analyzed.
Abstract: Understanding patient factors related to physical activity behavior is important in the management of Type 2 Diabetes. This study applied the Theory of Planned Behavior model to understand physical activity behavior among sampled Type 2 diabetics in Kenya. The study was conducted within the diabetic clinic at Kisii Level 5 Hospital and adopted sequential mixed methods design beginning with qualitative phase and ending with quantitative phase. Qualitative data was analyzed using grounded theory analysis method. Structural equation modeling using maximum likelihood was used to analyze quantitative data. The common fit indices revealed that the theory of planned behavior fitted the data acceptably well among the Type 2 diabetes and within physical activity behavior {¤ç2 = 213, df = 84, n=230, p = .061, ¤ç2/df = 2.53; TLI = .97; CFI =.96; RMSEA (90CI) = .073(.029, .08)}. This theory proved to be useful in understanding physical activity behavior among Type 2 diabetics.
Abstract: In this paper we present a Feed-Foward Neural
Networks Autoregressive (FFNN-AR) model with genetic algorithms
training optimization in order to predict the gross domestic product
growth of six countries. Specifically we propose a kind of weighted
regression, which can be used for econometric purposes, where the
initial inputs are multiplied by the neural networks final optimum
weights from input-hidden layer of the training process. The
forecasts are compared with those of the ordinary autoregressive
model and we conclude that the proposed regression-s forecasting
results outperform significant those of autoregressive model.
Moreover this technique can be used in Autoregressive-Moving
Average models, with and without exogenous inputs, as also the
training process with genetics algorithms optimization can be
replaced by the error back-propagation algorithm.
Abstract: In this research, a systematic investigation was carried out to determine the optimum conditions of HDS reactor. Moreover, a suitable model was developed for a rigorous RTO (real time optimization) loop of HDS (Hydro desulfurization) process. A systematic experimental series was designed based on CCD (Central Composite design) and carried out in the related pilot plant to tune the develop model. The designed variables in the experiments were Temperature, LHSV and pressure. However, the hydrogen over fresh feed ratio was remained constant. The ranges of these variables were respectively equal to 320-380ºC, 1- 21/hr and 50-55 bar. a power law kinetic model was also developed for our further research in the future .The rate order and activation energy , power of reactant concentration and frequency factor of this model was respectively equal to 1.4, 92.66 kJ/mol and k0=2.7*109 .
Abstract: Nonspecific protein adsorption generally occurs on
any solid surfaces and usually has adverse consequences. Adsorption
of proteins onto a solid surface is believed to be the initial and
controlling step in biofouling. Surfaces modified with end-tethered
poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) have been shown to be protein-resistant
to some degree. In this study, the adsorption of β-casein and
lysozyme was performed on 6 different types of surfaces where PEG
was tethered onto stainless steel by polyethylene imine (PEI) through
either OH or NHS end groups. Protein adsorption was also performed
on the bare stainless steel surface as a control. The adsorption was
conducted at 23 °C and pH 7.2. In situ QCM-D was used to
determine PEG adsorption kinetics, plateau PEG chain densities,
protein adsorption kinetics and plateau protein adsorbed quantities.
PEG grafting density was the highest for a NHS coupled chain,
around 0.5 chains / nm2. Interestingly, lysozyme which has smaller
size than β-casein, appeared to adsorb much less mass than that of β-
casein. Overall, the surface with high PEG grafting density exhibited
a good protein rejection.
Abstract: Many studies have applied the Theory of Planned
Behavior (TPB) in predicting health behaviors among unique
populations. However, a new paradigm is emerging where focus is
now directed to modification and expansion of the TPB model rather
than utilization of the traditional theory. This review proposes new
models modified from the Theory of Planned Behavior and suggest
an appropriate study design that can be used to test the models within
physical activity and dietary practice domains among Type 2
diabetics in Kenya. The review was conducted by means of literature
search in the field of nutrition behavior, health psychology and
mixed methods using predetermined key words. The results identify
pre-intention and post intention gaps within the TPB model that need
to be filled. Additional psychosocial factors are proposed to be
included in the TPB model to generate new models and the efficacy
of these models tested using mixed methods design.
Abstract: Heavy metals have bad effects on environment and
soils and it can uptake by natural HAP .natural Hap is an inexpensive
material that uptake large amounts of various heavy metals like Zn
(II) .Natural HAP (N-HAP), extracted from bovine cortical bone ash,
is a good choice for substitution of commercial HAP. Several
experiments were done to investigate the sorption capacity of Zn (II)
to N-HAP in various particles sizes, temperatures, initial
concentrations, pH and reaction times. In this study, the sorption of
Zinc ions from a Zn solution onto HAP particles with sizes of 1537.6
nm and 47.6 nm at three initial pH values of 4.50, 6.00 and 7.50 was
studied. The results showed that better performance was obtained
through a 47.6 nm particle size and higher pH values. The
experimental data were analyzed using Langmuir, Freundlich, and
Arrhenius equations for equilibrium, kinetic and thermodynamic
studies. The analysis showed a maximum adsorption capacity of NHAP
as being 1.562 mmol/g at a pH of 7.5 and small particle size.
Kinetically, the prepared N-HAP is a feasible sorbent that retains Zn
(II) ions through a favorable and spontaneous sorption process.
Abstract: Gaharu that produced by Aquilaria spp. is classified as
one of the most valuable forest products traded internationally as it is
very resinous, fragrant and highly valuable heartwood. Gaharu has
been widely used in aromatheraphy, medicine, perfume and religious
practices. This work aimed to determine the factors affecting solid
liquid extraction of gaharu oil using hexane as solvent under
experimental condition. The kinetics of extraction was assumed and
verified based on a second-order mechanism. The effect of three
main factors, which were temperature, reaction time and solvent to
solid ratio were investigated to achieve maximum oil yield. The
optimum condition were found at temperature 65°C, 9 hours reaction
time and solvent to solid ratio of 12:1 with 14.5% oil yield. The
kinetics experimental data agrees and well fitted with the second
order extraction model. The initial extraction rate (h) was 0.0115
gmL-1min-1; the extraction capacity (Cs) was 1.282gmL-1; the second
order extraction constant (k) was 0.007 mLg-1min-1 and coefficient of
determination, R2 was 0.945.
Abstract: Mobiles are considered to be the most frequently used
electronic items in world after electricity. It is probably the only
device that can be used by any gender with no age limits depending
on its functionality. This paper present the interactive interface of
Mobile and particularly aiming the use of advanced phones which are
also called smart phones. With the changes in the trend where users
are now moving from ordinary mobiles to the one with touch screens
and facilities such as WiFi and internet browsing.
Abstract: The fixed partial dentures are mainly used in the frontal
part of the dental arch because of their great esthetics. There are
several factors that are associated with the stress state created in
ceramic restorations, including: thickness of ceramic layers,
mechanical properties of the materials, elastic modulus of the
supporting substrate material, direction, magnitude and frequency of
applied load, size and location of occlusal contact areas, residual
stresses induced by processing or pores, restoration-cement
interfacial defects and environmental defects. The purpose of this
study is to evaluate the capability of Polarization Sensitive Optical
Coherence Tomography (PSOCT) in detection and analysis of
possible material defects in metal-ceramic and integral ceramic fixed
partial dentures. As a conclusion, it is important to have a non
invasive method to investigate fixed partial prostheses before their
insertion in the oral cavity in order to satisfy the high stress
requirements and the esthetic function.
Abstract: Cry j 1 is a causative substance of Japanese cedar
pollinosis, and it may deteriorate by Cry j 1 invasion to a lower
respiratory tract. We observed airborne particles containing Cry j 1 by
an immunofluorescence technique using a fluorescence microscope,
and we clarified that Cry j 1 exist as aggregates of airborne fine
particles (< 1.1 μm) in the urban atmosphere. Airborne Cry j 1 may
react with air pollutants and be denature to a substance deteriorated
Japanese cedar pollinosis. Therefore, we applied a sodium dodecyl
sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) to evaluate a
Cry j 1 reacted with various air pollutants by liquid phase reaction,
and calculated kinetics constants of Cry j 1 extracted from pollens
collected in various sites and airborne fine particles containing Cry j
1 by using a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) method. As a result, it
is suggested that Cry j 1 may be denatured by air pollutants during
the transportation to the urban atmosphere.