bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Studies on complex formation between curcumin and Hg(II) ion by spectrophotometric method: A new approach to overcome peak overlap
Authors: Waranyoupalin Ratanasuda , Wongnawa Sumpun , Wongnawa Malinee , Pakawatchai Chaveng , Panichayupakaranant Pharkphoom , Sherdshoopongse Panit
Published: June 2009

Complex formation between curcumin and Hg(II) ion MeOH/H2O (1: 1 v/v) was investigated and monitored by the spectrophotometric method. The absorption peak of unreacted curcumin which was close and overlapped with that of the complex, was removed by calculation using Microsoft Excel, thereby, allowing determination of the stoichiometry of the complex by the mole-ratio and the Job’s continuous variation methods. Both methods indicated that a 1:1 complex of curcumin and Hg(II) was formed in solution. The formation constant of the 1:1 Hg(II) complex was obtained from two methods, the equilibrium concentration calculation and the linear plot of Benesi-Hildebrand equation, as log K = 4.44 ± 0.16 and 4.83 ± 0.02, respectively. The structure is proposed as a tetrahedral complex of Hg(II) with one curcumin and two chloride ions as ligands.
Heterogeneous catalytic ignition of n-butane/air mixtures on platinum
Authors: Staicu Octavian , Razus Domnina , Munteanu Valentin , Oancea Dumitru
Published: June 2009

The heterogeneous catalytic ignition of lean to stoichiometric n-butane/air mixtures were studied at various total pressures between 10 and 100 kPa and at temperatures equal to or larger than the critical ignition temperatures. The induction periods, ignition and extinction temperatures were measured under strict isothermal conditions. The discussion presented in this paper is based on several literature models. The data analysis allowed for the determination of the overall kinetic parameters. The rigorous isothermal conditions indicated that the extinction temperatures are lower than the ignition, a behavior different from the results obtained in stagnation-point flow reactors.
Determination of Alizarin Red S using a novel B-Z oscillation system catalyzed by a tetraazamacrocyclic complex
Authors: Hu Gang , Chen Lulu , Zhang Jinfeng , Chen Panpan , Wang Wei , Song Jimei , Qiu Lingguang , Song Juan , Hu Lin
Published: June 2009

A new and convenient method for the determination of Alizarin Red S by the perturbations caused by different amounts of Alizarin Red S on a novel B-Z oscillating system is proposed. This new type Belousov-Zhabotinskii involves a macrocyclic copper(II) complex [CuL](ClO4)2 as catalyst and malic acid as the substrate. The ligand L in the complex is 5,7,7,12,14,14-hexamethyl-1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradeca-4,11-diene. It is found that the relationship between the change in the oscillation amplitude and the logarithm of the Alizarin Red S concentration in the range of 1.5 × 10−7 to 1 × 10−3 M fits a polynomial model: ΔA = 659 + 184.2 log [Alizarin Red S]+ 12.9 log2 [Alizarin Red S]. The RSD obtained with ten samples is 4.4%. The probable mechanism involving the perturbation of Alizarin Red S on the oscillating chemical system is also discussed.
Polycationic graft copolymers of poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) as non-viral vectors for gene transfection
Authors: Liu Yun-Hai , Cao Xiao-Hong , Peng Dao-Feng , Xu Wen-Yuan
Published: June 2009

Novel graft copolymers of 2-(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA) with N-vinylpyrrolidone (NVP) were designed and synthesized by the free radical copolymerization of DMAEMA with precursor polymers of vinyl-functionalized poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP). The ability of the PVP- grafted copolymers to bind and condense DNA was confirmed by ethidium bromide displacement assay, agarose gel electrophoresis and transmission electron microscopy. The presence of PVP in the copolymers had a favorable effect on the biophysical properties of polymer/DNA complexes. Colloidal stable complexes obtained from the copolymer systems, were shown to be separate, uniformly spherical nanoparticles by transmission electron microscopy. The approximate diameter of the complexes was 150–200 nm, as determined by dynamic light scattering studies. These results confirm an important role played by the PVP grafts in producing compact stable DNA complexes. The ζ-potential measurements revealed that the incorporation of the PVP grafts reduced the positive surface charge of polymer/DNA complexes. The cytotoxicity of the copolymers decreased with an increasing fraction of PVP. Furthermore, in vitro transfection experiments with these copolymers showed improved ability of transfection in cell culture, demonstrating an important role for PVP grafts in enhancement of the transfection efficiency.
Comparison of solid-phase and single-drop microextractions for headspace analysis of herbal essential oils
Authors: Adam Martin , Dobiáš Petr , Pavlíková Petra , Ventura Karel
Published: June 2009

The analytical microextraction methods of gas chromatography coupled with flame ionisation detector (GC-FID) for determination of selected essential oils in herbs were proposed. Two microextraction methods for the isolation of essential oils from plants such as Lavandula spica L., Melissa officinalis L., Mentha piperita L. and Salvia officinalis L. were used. The methods of solid-phase and single-drop microextractions, were optimised and compared. The obtained LOD values for all studied essential oils were found to be within 2.5–20.5 μg for SDME and 57.0–139.8 μg for SPME method per 100 g of dried sample leaves. The appropriate LOQ values were then 8.4–68.4 μg for SDME and 189.8–466.1 μg for SPME of target analytes per 100 g of dried sample leaves.
A green chemical route for the synthesis of Mn3O4 nanoparticles
Authors: Durmus Zehra , Kavas Hüseyin , Baykal Abdulhadi , Toprak Muhammet
Published: June 2009

A novel environmental friendly, room temperature route using an ionic liquid 1-n-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hydroxide ([BMIM]OH) for the synthesis of Mn3O4 nanoparticles is presented. The product was characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. Phase purity was confirmed by XRD, and X-ray line profile fitting determined a crystallite size of 42 ± 11 nm. TEM analysis revealed various morphologies. EPR measurements have indicated the existence of long-range interactions, due to the wide range of particle sizes and morphologies observed.
Scolecite as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the synthesis of 2,4,5-triarylimidazoles
Authors: Gadekar Lakshman , Mane Shivshankar , Katkar Santosh , Arbad Balasaheb , Lande Machhindra
Published: June 2009

Natural scolecite has been found as an effective catalyst for the one-pot synthesis of 2,4,5-triarylimidazole derivatives via a three component reaction using benzil or benzoin, aldehydes and ammonium acetate. This method provides several advantages such as being environmentally benign, reusable, possessing high yields with increased variations of the substituents in the product and preparative simplicity.
Characterization of the citrate precursor, used for synthesis of nanosized Mg-Zn ferrites
Authors: Kassabova-Zhetcheva Violeta
Published: June 2009

The citrate precursor has been used to synthesize nanocrystalline Mg-Zn-ferrites. The nature of the prepared precursor is characterized and compared with those of the precursors studied earlier, prepared by the same process. The study has been performed by inorganic and organic elemental analyses, Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Mössbauer spectroscopy, X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR), Electronic absorption spectrometry in the UV-VIS region, Differential Thermal analysis/ Thermogravimetry (DTA-TG) analyses, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The collected results determined the precursor as a coordination polymer with monomer unit (NH4)4{M [Fe(C6H5O7)2]2}, where M=Zn or Mg.
Voltammetric determination of dopamine in the presence of ascorbic and uric acids using partial least squares regression: determination of dopamine in human urine and plasma
Authors: Bahram Morteza , Farhadi Khalil , Arjmand Farzin
Published: June 2009

A new differential pulse voltammetric method for dopamine determination at a bare glassy carbon electrode has been developed. Dopamine, ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA) usually coexist in physiological samples. Because AA and UA can be oxidized at potentials close to that of DA it is difficult to determine dopamine electrochemically, although resolution can be achieved using modified electrodes. Additionally, oxidized dopamine mediates AA oxidation and the electrode surface can be easily fouled by the AA oxidation product. In this work a chemometrics strategy, partial least squares (PLS) regression, has been applied to determine dopamine in the presence of AA and UA without electrode modification. The method is based on the electrooxidation of dopamine at a glassy carbon electrode in pH 7 phosphate buffer. The dopamine calibration curve was linear over the range of 1–313 μM and the limit of detection was 0.25 μM. The relative standard error (RSE %) was 5.28%. The method has been successfully applied to the measurement of dopamine in human plasma and urine.
Synthesis, DNA-binding and antiproliferative activity of N-(Nitrogen heterocyclic) norcantharidin acylamide acid
Authors: Zhu Wen-Zhong , Hu Rui-Ding , Lin Qiu-Yue , Wang Xiao-Xia , Zheng Xiao-Liang
Published: June 2009

Two novel norcantharidin acylamide acids (HL1=N-pyrimidine norcantharidin acylamide acid, C12H13N3O4; HL2=N-pyridine norcantharidin acylamide acid, C13H14N2O4) were synthesized by a reaction of norcantharidin(NCTD) with 2-aminopyrimidine and 2-aminopyridine, respectively. Their structures were characterized by elemental analysis, IR, UV and 1 H NMR. Fluorescence titration and viscosity measurements indicated that HL1, HL2 and HL3 (HL3=N-phenyl norcantharidin acylamide acid, C14H15NO4) can bind calf thymus DNA via partial intercalation. The liner Stern-Volmer quenching constant Ksv values for HL1, HL2 and HL3 were 2.05 × 104 L mol−1, 1.15 × 104 L mol−1 and 8.30×103 L mol−1, respectively. Two compounds containing heterocycle of HL1 and HL2 have been found to cleave pBR322 plasmid DNA at physiological pH and temperature. The test of antiproliferation activity showed that the compounds had moderate to strong antiproliferative ability against the tested cell lines except of HL3 against the SMMC7721 cell line. The results indicated that the heterocycle attached to the norcantharidin was favorable to antiproliferative activity. This result was consistent with the DNA binding experiment.
RP-HPLC determination of lipophilicity in series of quinoline derivatives
Authors: Musiol Robert , Jampilek Josef , Podeszwa Barbara , Finster Jacek , Tabak Dominik , Dohnal Jiri , Polanski Jaroslaw
Published: June 2009

In the present paper we describe results on the synthesis and lipophilicity determination of a series of biologically active compounds based on their heterocyclic structure. For synthesis of styrylquinoline-based compounds we applied microwave irradiation and solid phase techniques. The correlation between RP-HPLC retention parameter log k (the logarithm of retention factor k) and log P data calculated in various ways is discussed, as well as, the relationships between the lipophilicity and the chemical structure of the studied compounds.
Topoisomerase II of filarial parasite Setaria cervi: purification and characterization
Authors: Reddy J. , Singh A. , Joshi S. , Khan M. , Saxena J.
Published: June 2009

DNA topoisomerases are ubiquitous enzymes which are involved in replication, transcription, recombination and repair of nucleic acids. DNA topoisomerase II of filarial parasite Setaria cervi was purified to homogeneity by use of cation exchange and affinity chromatography. The purified enzyme migrated on SDS-PAGE as a single band with molecular weight of ∼80 kDa and native molecular weight of the enzyme was found to be 175 kDa indicating the dimeric nature of the protein. Topo II of S. cervi required ATP and dATP for its activity and optimal activity was observed at 1.0 mM ATP concentration. The filarial enzyme also utilized nucleotides, namely GTP, UTP and CTP for its activity. The divalent metal ions requirement of the enzyme showed that beside Mg+2 other ions viz., Ca+2, Mn+2, Cu+2 and Sr+2 were also utilized as cofactor for the activity. Antifilarial compounds ivermectin and diethylcarbamazine inhibited 100 % topo II activity at 100 μM concentration but suramin showed similar effect at 20 μM concentration. Nalidixic acid and novobiocin exhibited 100 % inhibition of the enzyme activity while mAMSA and etoposide inhibited the activity to different extents at 100 μM concentration. In view of significant differences in properties exhibited by the filarial topoisomerase as compared to other parasitic and eukaryotic topoisomerases, the filarial topoisomerase can be usefully exploited to devise new antifilarial compounds.
Preliminary studies on the zoonotic importance of rodents as a reservoir of toxocariasis from recreation grounds in Wroclaw (Poland)
Authors: Hildebrand J. , Zalesny G. , Okulewicz A. , Baszkiewicz K.
Published: June 2009

Due to their specific biology and behaviour, rodents could play a role as an intermediate, definitive or paratenic host for many helminth species, as well as for species of zoonotic significance such as Toxocara spp. or Echinococcus multilocularis. The aim of our preliminary study was to investigate the nematode fauna of rodents collected from recreation grounds located in the vicinity of Wroclaw, and to determine their role in the transmission of toxocariasis in this area. During a one-year period, 90 individuals belonging to three rodent species, i.e. Apodemus agrarius, A. flavicollis and Myodes glareolus, were collected. The overall prevalence of infection with nematodes amounted to 63.33 ± 10.15 % and differed between hosts. Toxocara spp. larvae were located in livers and brains of A. agrarius (12.9 %). Our results indicate a role of rodents in the circulation of toxocariasis in sub-urban areas, which serve as recreation grounds for the city of Wroclaw.
Cranial lesions caused by helminth parasites and morphological traits in the European polecat Mustela putorius
Authors: Demuth J. , Hromada M. , Krawczyk A. , Malecha A. , Tobolka M. , Tryjanowski P.
Published: June 2009

We investigated the occurrence of cranial lesions caused by helminth parasites in the European polecat Mustela putorius in a museum collection in Slovakia. Selected traits of polecat body morphology and condition were studied with respect to the prevalence of the parasites, and number and extent of helminth-caused lesions in crania of 183 adult polecats. The trematode Troglotrema acutum was identified as the parasitic agent (prevalence 62.6 %), with a strong relationship between number of lesions and extent of cranial damage (surface of cranium). Prevalence of infection did not differ significantly between sexes (68.9 % in females, 51.1 % in males). Females with lesions by Troglotrema acutum have significantly greater braincase breadth than uninfected ones. Among males, infected individuals were generally significantly heavier and larger than uninfected individuals. Therefore, contrary to assumptions, it seems that parasites did not influence significantly body measurements of the animals, and differences are probably rather a result of an intra-sample age variation among infected polecats (older individuals are bigger, more probably infected and damage is more pronounced).
Redescription of Charaxicephaloides polyorchis Groschaft and Tenora 1978 (Digenea: Pronocephalidae) from the green turtle Chelonia mydas in Costa Rica
Authors: Santoro M. , Brandmayr P. , Greiner E. , Morales J. , Rodríguez-Ortíz B.
Published: June 2009

Charaxicephaloides polyorchis Groschaft and Tenora, 1978 is redescribed on the basis of specimens collected from the stomach of green turtles Chelonia mydas in Costa Rica. Our specimens are consistent with the original description which was based on four flukes from the same host species from the northwest coast of Cuba. Our redescription provides a new range of variations and adds new information on this species. This represents only the second record of C. polyorchis in green turtles.
Helminthofauna of Pelophylax kl. esculentus (Linne, 1758) from Petrovaradinski Rit Marsh (Serbia)
Authors: Bjelić-Čabrilo Olivera , Popović Ester , Paunović Ana
Published: June 2009

The helminth fauna of lungs, small intestine, and rectum of 83 female specimens of Pelophylax kl. esculentus was investigated. Three helminth groups, Trematoda, Nematoda, and Acanthocephala were recorded. The sample was dominated by the class Trematoda. This class was represented by 8 adult and 2 larval species. Opisthioglyphe ranae and Pleurogenoides medians were the dominant fluke species. The data show the occurrence of Acanthocephalus ranae in frogs inhabiting Vojvodina Province.

The most frequent Nematoda was Oswaldocruzia filiformis. The greatest number of parasitic species and individuals was isolated from the small intestine. Infestation of individual parasitic groups was greater than that of mixed groups. The most frequent combination was T/N while analysed organs were most frequently invaded by a parasitic species only. Antagonism between genus Rhabdias and Haematoloechus and between species Aplectana acuminata and Opisthioglyphe ranae was ascertained.
First observation of Posthodiplostomum cuticola (Nordmann, 1832) metacercariae in cypriniformes from Croatia
Authors: Zrnčić S. , Oraić D. , Mihaljević Ž. , Ćaleta M. , Zanella D. , Jelić D. , Jelić M.
Published: June 2009

During an ichthyological study of the Ilova River, rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus) infected with Posthodiplostomum cuticola was observed for the first time in Croatia. Later, a more detailed study was made at the same sampling point and the distribution of P. cuticola in the fish species present was examined. The condition of the hosts and parasitological indices such as prevalence, mean abundance and mean intensity of all hosts examined were investigated. Metacercariae of P. cuticola were most prevalent (100 %) in Rutilus rutilus, Pseudorasbora parva, Leuciscus leuciscus and Alburnus alburnus, slightly lower (93.94 %) in Leuciscus cephalus, substantially lower in Rhodeus amarus (66.67 %) and Barbatula barbatula (50 %) while the lowest prevalence was found in Gobio gobio (47.83 %). The correlation coefficient between number of parasites and total and standard length, weight and Fulton’s condition index of sampled specimen was significant only for L. cephalus.
Parasitic nematodes of anseriform birds in Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Yoshino T. , Uemura J. , Endoh D. , Kaneko M. , Osa Y. , Asakawa M.
Published: June 2009

Parasitic nematodes of 176 individuals of 15 bird species belonging to the order Anseriformes from Hokkaido, Japan were investigated. A total of 12 nematode species were obtained, namely Amidostomum anseris, A. acutum, Epomidiostomum crami, E. uncinatum, Tetrameres fissispina, Eucoleus contortus, Capillaria anatis, Baruscapillaria mergi, Contracaecum rudolphii, Echinuria uncinata, Streptocara crassicauda and Sarconema eurycerca. Among these, E. uncinatum (hosts: Anas platyrhynchos, A. poecilorhyncha, A. acuta, Mel. nigra) and E. crami (hosts: Anser albifroms, Ans. fabalis, C. cygnus, C. columbianus) were the first geographical records in Japan. There appeared to be strict host-parasite relationships between the wild swans/geese and A. anseris/E. crami, and between wild duck species and A. acutum/E. uncinatum, respectively.
Molecular confirmation of Xiphinema italiae Meyl, 1953 (Nematoda: Longidoridae) from the Slovak Republic
Authors: Kumari S. , Lišková M.
Published: June 2009

Identification of the nematode Xiphinema italiae relies mainly on time-consuming morphological and morphometrical studies. A polymerase chain reaction protocol has been used for the reliable and specific identification of X. italiae. Moreover, four independently evolving molecular markers (cox1- cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1; ITS2-second internal transcribed spacer; 18S gene and D2/D3 expansion segments of 28S gene) were amplified and sequenced in both directions.
First record of Steinernema feltiae (Filipjev) (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) in Slovenia
Authors: Laznik Ž. , Tóth T. , Lakatos T. , Vidrih M. , Trdan S.
Published: June 2009

In October 2007 we examined 80 soil samples from 16 different locations in the central part of Slovenia (the Notranjska region) and confirmed the presence of entomopathogenic nematodes only in two soil samples. This represents the first recorded instance of an entomopathogenic nematode in Slovenia. In sample B30 we confirmed the presence of Steinernema feltiae (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) by means of a molecular technique. In Slovenia the application of entomopathogenic nematodes was hitherto possible only in laboratory experiments, while the Rules on Biological Plant Protection made the practical application of exotic organisms in the domestic environment entirely impossible. After the first record of the entomopathogenic nematode S. feltiae we expect the aformentioned agent to become an important alternative to insecticides in plant protection against pest insects.
What's Wrong with Methodological Naturalism?
Authors: Bradie Michael
Published: June 2009

What's Wrong with Methodological Naturalism?

The compatibility of Darwinism with religious beliefs has been the subject of vigorous debate from 1859 to the present day. Darwin himself did not think that there was any incompatibility between his theory of natural selection and the existence of God. However, he did not think that appeals to the direct or indirect activity of a Creator substantially increased our understanding of any natural phenomenon. In effect, Darwin endorsed what we would today label as "methodological naturalism,' roughly the view that the only legitimate elements of the explanation of natural phenomena must appeal only to natural processes, natural laws and natural regularities.

In section 2, Darwin's commitment to methodological Darwinism is documented. Section 3 addresses the question of whether methodological naturalism does or does not rule out belief in a divine Creator. Section 4 raises the question of whether methodological naturalists are also metaphysical naturalists. Finally, section 5 assesses the warrant for expanding the scope of ‘science’ to include non-naturalistic factors.
Criteria for Attributing Predictive Responsibility in the Scientific Realism Debate: Deployment, Essentiality, Belief, Retention …
Authors: Lyons Timothy
Published: June 2009

Criteria for Attributing Predictive Responsibility in the Scientific Realism Debate: Deployment, Essentiality, Belief, Retention …

The most promising contemporary form of epistemic scientific realism is based on the following intuition: Belief should be directed, not toward theories as wholes, but toward particular theoretical constituents that are responsible for, or deployed in, key successes. While the debate on deployment realism is quite fresh, a significant degree of confusion has already entered into it. Here I identify five criteria that have sidetracked that debate. Setting these distractions aside, I endeavor to redirect the attention of both realists and non-realists to the fundamental intuition above. In more detail: I show that Stathis Psillos (1999) has offered an explicit criterion for picking out particular constituents, which, contrary to Kyle Stanford's (2006a) criticisms, neither assumes the truth of theories nor requires hindsight. I contend, however, that, in Psillos's case studies, Psillos has not successfully applied his explicit criterion. After clarifying the various alternative criteria at work (in those case studies and in a second line of criticism offered by Stanford), I argue that, irrespective of Stanford's criticisms, the explicit criterion Psillos does offer is not an acceptable one. Nonetheless, the deployment realist's fundamental intuition withstands all of these challenges. In closing, I point in a direction toward which I've elsewhere focused, suggesting that, despite the legitimacy and applicability of the deployment realist's intuition, the historical threat that prompted it remains.
Interpretation, Constraint, and the Prospects of Scientific Realism
Authors: Brown Harold
Published: June 2009

Interpretation, Constraint, and the Prospects of Scientific Realism

I explore the interaction between theory-based interpretations of scientific evidence and constraints on theories provided by that evidence. Interpretation is often viewed as a source of error and a reason for scepticism about scientific results. But, I argue, while interpretation does generate epistemic risk, it also points to new sources of evidence that can constrain our theories. This is especially clear in the development of instrumentation that increases the range of our interactions with nature. While the design of such instruments and the interpretation of their outputs are deeply dependent on theory-based interpretations, these outputs can still challenge those very theories. At the same time, theory-guided instrumentation provides us access to aspects of nature that we cannot study with our unaided senses. This access allows us to extend the range of evidence that we collect, and thus increases the constraints on our theories. As a result, theory-guided evidence collection has a positive impact on the prospects of scientific realism since these increasing constraints on our theories provide our only reason for thinking that we may be approaching the development of true theories.
Tensions Regarding Epistemic Concepts
Authors: Margolis Joseph
Published: June 2009

Tensions Regarding Epistemic Concepts

The paper argues that there is no logic of scientific discovery, but there is an inference-like pattern that we can model as a "logic," retrospectively, once a discovery has been successfully made. While accepting a kind of epistemological pluralism and opportunism, the claim will be advocated that a convergent and reasonably wide-ranging normative "logic" might be constructed, one that might even work reasonably well in selected applications and might (therefore) also lead us to make congruent judgments of irrationality or illogicality wherever it seems not to yield the "normatively appropriate" outcomes in otherwise comparable specimen cases.
Historical Narrative: A Dispute Between Constructionism and Scientific Realism
Authors: Černík Václav , Viceník Jozef
Published: June 2009

Historical Narrative: A Dispute Between Constructionism and Scientific Realism

An intense discussion about the issue of historical narrative arose during the time when the naïve realism of classical historiography was being critiqued and led to a dispute, in the last century, between constructionism and critical or scientific realism. We can distinguish between constructionism and noetic constructivism. According to ontological constructionism all facts are human constructions; according to noetic constructivism, our notions and theories are constructs with objective meaning (sense and reference); they refer to objective reality. Scientific realism recognizes the existence of noetic construction but does not regard facts as our constructions, as pure fictions. The point of contention is the question over whether historical narrative is merely a discursive construction or whether it is also a scientific reconstruction of the past. Resolving the dispute over whether historical narrative can be objectively true, or whether it is subject to empirical control or not, is dependent on finding the answer to this question.
On the Actualities and Possibilities of Constructionism: Towards Deep Empiricism
Authors: Stenner Paul
Published: June 2009

On the Actualities and Possibilities of Constructionism: Towards Deep Empiricism

Drawing from the example of critical psychology, this paper examines how dissatisfaction with an existing scientific paradigm can stimulate interest in philosophy and social theory. The emergence of a social constructionist understanding of scientific knowledge in prominent dialects of critical psychology is related to a combination of scientific and political concerns, and briefly set in the context of three important strands of twentieth century philosophy: existential hermeneutics, ordinary language philosophy and poststructuralism. These strands agree on at least two issues: the rejection of metaphysics and the ontological foregrounding of the notion of discourse or language-in-use. These philosophies have influenced the development of discursive methods and constructionist epistemologies in special sciences such as psychology and sociology. It is suggested, however, that both the commitment against metaphysics and the prioritising of discourse are problematic, and that a process metaphysics based on the three pillars of possibility, mediation and actuality (or pattern, matrix and activity) might be articulated in order to overcome the bifurcation of nature tacitly accepted by the commitment to a discursive ontology.
Realism in Context: The Examples of Lifeworld and Quantum Physics
Authors: Schiemann Gregor
Published: June 2009

Realism in Context: The Examples of Lifeworld and Quantum Physics

Lifeworld realism and quantum-physical realism are taken as experience-dependent conceptions of the world that become objects of explicit reflection when confronted with context-external discourses. After a brief sketch of the two contexts of experience—lifeworld and quantum physics—and their realist interpretations, I will discuss the quantum world from the perspective of lifeworld realism. From this perspective, the quantum world—roughly speaking—has to be either unreal or else constitute a different reality. Then, I invert the perspective and examine the lifeworld from the standpoint of quantumphysical realism. This conception of the lifeworld has gained momentum from new research results in recent decades. Despite its experiential basis, quantum-physical realism bears an ambiguity akin to that of lifeworld realism. While the perspectival inversion serves to highlight the problem, it also contributes to an improved understanding of lifeworld-realism.
Covariant Realism
Authors: Crease Robert
Published: June 2009

Covariant Realism

Hermeneutic phenomenology of science implies a particular version of realism. It approaches scientific entities in a twofold perspective: in their relation to other parts of the theory (as elements in a theoretical "language"), and in relation to the lifeworld as mediated by laboratory practices; as "fulfilled" in laboratory situations that "produce" worldly objects. The question then arises of the relation between the two perspectives; as Ginev has pointed out, there is danger of a theoretical essentialism which is implied when the mathematical projection is conceived as operationalized by experiment. Ginev's proposal to avoid this involves the concept of "inscription." This paper proposes another approach, covariant realism, which draws from Heidegger's notion of formal indication and which makes explicit the temporality of theoretical objects in the flow of the research process. Formal indication does not so much describe phenomena as call them to our attention in a way that we can activate ourselves (as in laboratory contexts); it characterizes phenomena which are understood to be provisionally grasped, already interpreted, and anticipated as able to show themselves differently in different contexts. The value of this approach suggests deeper possibilities for hermeneutic phenomenology of science than have hitherto been explored.
New closure method for a simultaneous diazo coupling between 1- and 2-Naphthols and diazotized sulphanilic acid
Authors: Bałdyga Jerzy , Jasińska Magdalena
Published: June 2009

New closure method for a simultaneous diazo coupling between 1- and 2-Naphthols and diazotized sulphanilic acid

This paper presents the effects of mixing on the course of complex chemical reactions in relation to the manufacturing of pure products at high reaction selectivity, and designing mixing strategies using complex, homogeneous test reaction systems. As an example, the competitive-consecutive and parallel reaction test system including a simultaneous diazo-coupling between 1- and 2-naphtols and diazotized sulphanilic acid is considered. The effect of mixing on the reaction selectivity is interpreted using mechanistic modeling and a new closure scheme. The new closure represents an extension of the conditional PDF closure applied before to simple reaction schemes.
Selection and comparison of equipment for deagglomeration processes
Authors: Bałdyga Jerzy , Malik Katarzyna
Published: June 2009

Selection and comparison of equipment for deagglomeration processes

The unique properties of nanoparticles and nanoparticle clusters show high potential for nanomaterials to be formulated into numerous products. In this paper, nanosuspensions are formulated by braking up agglomerates in high-shear flows. The flows are generated in the specific equipment, and this paper serves as a guide for equipment selection based on mechanistic modelling. A general model based on the power input to the system is formulated to model agglomerate disintegration in different types of equipment including stirred tanks, the rotor-stator disintegrators, the high-pressure nozzle systems and bead mills. The results of computations based on the rate of energy dissipation are presented in terms of the specific energy input, which is typical of industrial applications. In the considered deagglomeration devices the stresses are generated due to various mechanisms including the effects of hydrodynamic stresses, cavitation and bead collisions. The model includes the effects of agglomerate structure on the suspension viscosity. The results of the simulations are compared with the experimental data.
Technological aspects of the synthesis of 2,4-dichlorophenol
Authors: Białek Arkadiusz , Moszczyński Wiesław
Published: June 2009

Technological aspects of the synthesis of 2,4-dichlorophenol

The main factors influencing the selectivity of chlorophenols synthesis were described. The loss of raw materials and the composition of wastes obtained in a conventional technology of 2,4-D production based on 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) of the 89% purity were presented. The influence of some homogenous catalysts on the selectivity of 2,4-dichlorophenol obtained in phenol and chlorine reaction was examined. Using the combined catalyst enables to chlorinate selectively the monochlorophenols to 2,4-DCP without an undesirable increasing of the 2,6-dichlorophenol and 2,4,6-trichlorophenol contents. The catalyst transformations during the reaction of phenol chlorination were investigated and the method of its elimination after the reaction was elaborated.
Acetylation of p-Aminophenol by Preyssler's anion [NaP5W30O110]14-, [NaP5 W29MoO110]14- with green condition at room temperature
Authors: Gharib Ali , Scheeren J. , Bamoharram Fatemeh , Roshani Mina , Jahangir Manouchehr
Published: June 2009

Acetylation of p-Aminophenol by Preyssler's anion [NaP5W30O110]14-, [NaP5 W29MoO110]14- with green condition at room temperature

Synthesis of acetaminophen at green condition and room temperature in the presence of the Preyssler type heteropolyacids has been investigated in order to contribute toward clean technology, which is the most important need of the society. All of the catalysts are recyclable and reusable.
Transient CFD simulations of turbulent liquid - liquid flow in a Kenics static mixer. Radial and tangential velocities
Authors: Murasiewicz Halina , Jaworski Zdzislaw
Published: June 2009

Transient CFD simulations of turbulent liquid - liquid flow in a Kenics static mixer. Radial and tangential velocities

The results of modelling of the two-phase turbulent flow of a two-phase, liquid-liquid mixture in a Kenics static mixer were reported. Advanced transient simulations were performed using the large eddy simulation (LES) approach and a broader analysis of the velocity field was carried out. The two-phase flow was modelled employing the Eulerian approach in the pseudo-homogeneous version of the mixture model. Three cases were again considered, which differed by the density of the two phases and the simulations were performed for Reynolds number of 10,000. The LES results for the tangential and radial components were compared with those obtained in the steady-state RANS approach.
Carbon modified TiO2 photocatalysts for water purification
Authors: Morawski Antoni , Janus Magdalena , Tryba Beata , Toyoda Masahiro , Tsumura Tomoki , Inagaki Michio
Published: June 2009

Carbon modified TiO2 photocatalysts for water purification

Carbon can form different structures with TiO2: carbon-doped TiO2, carbon coated TiO2 and composites of TiO2 and carbon. The presence of carbon layer on the surface of TiO2 as well as the presence of porous carbon in the composites with TiO2 can increase the concentration of organic pollutants on the surface of TiO2, facilitating the contact of the reactive species with the organic molecules. Carbon-doped TiO2 can extend the absorption of the light to the visible region by the narrowing of the band gap and makes the photocatalysts active under visible light irradiation. TiO2 loaded carbon can also work as a photocatalyst, on which the molecules are adsorbed in the pores of carbon and then they undergo the photocatalytic decomposition with UV irradiation. Enhanced photocatalytic activity for the destruction of some organic compounds in water was noticed on the carbon coated TiO2 and TiO2 loaded activated carbon, mostly because of the adsorptive role of carbon. However, in carbon-doped TiO2, the role of carbon is somewhat different, the replacement of carbon atom with Ti or oxygen and formation of oxygen vacancies are responsible for extending its photocatalytic activity towards the visible range.
Preparation of cobalt titanates via co-precipitation while using industrial intermediates as titanium precursors
Authors: Przepiera Aleksander , Płaska Justyna , Przepiera Krystyna , Jabłoński Maciej , Konratowska Aleksandra
Published: June 2009

Preparation of cobalt titanates via co-precipitation while using industrial intermediates as titanium precursors

This paper reports on the results of cobalt titanates preparation by calcination of green bodies obtained by a co-precipitation method. For the investigations were used: as titanium sources, acidic solutions of titanyl sulfate and hydrous titanium dioxide, originating from the production process of titanium dioxide by sulfate method. The composition of the obtained materials was determined using titration methods. The calcined powders were characterized by X-ray diffraction method. It has been found that the obtained products are composed of cobalt methatitanate CoTiO3 or cobalt orthotitanate Co2TiO4 occurring as single phases, and also as cobalt titanates and titanium dioxide phase mixtures. The proposed method of proceeding can be used for the preparation of series of transition metals titanates, such as nickel, iron, zinc, copper and also aluminium titanates.
The effect of hydrotropes on the solubility and mass transfer coefficient of 2-nitrobenzoic acid
Authors: Thenesh-Kumar S. , Gnana-Prakash D. , Nagendra-Gandhi N.
Published: June 2009

The effect of hydrotropes on the solubility and mass transfer coefficient of 2-nitrobenzoic acid

A comprehensive investigation on the solubility and mass transfer coefficient enhancement of 2-nitrobenzoic acid through hydrotropy, has been undertaken. The solubility and mass transfer coefficient studies were carried out using hydrotropes such as sodium acetate, citric acid and nicotinamide under a wide range of hydrotrope concentrations (0 to 3.0 mol/L) and different system temperatures (303 to 333 K). It was found that the solubility and mass transfer coefficient of 2-nitrobenzoic acid increases with an increase in hydrotrope concentration and also with system temperature. All hydrotropes used in this work showed an enhancement in the solubility and mass transfer coefficient to different degrees. The maximum enhancement factor value has been determined for both the solubility and mass transfer coefficient. The effectiveness of hydrotropes was measured in terms of Setschnew constant Ks
and reported for all the hydrotropes used in this study.
Scaling diminution by heterogeneous crystallization in a filtration element integrated with membrane distillation module
Authors: Gryta Marek
Published: June 2009

Scaling diminution by heterogeneous crystallization in a filtration element integrated with membrane distillation module

Water desalination by membrane distillation is restricted by calcium carbonate precipitation on the membrane surface, what resulted in a progressive decline of the permeate flux. The module rinsing by HCl solution removed this deposit, however, such operation could cause the membrane wettability, associated with lowering of the permeate flux. This phenomenon was inhibited when the membrane modules with prefiltration element, assembled directly at the inlet to module, were used. The salt deposits were formed mainly on the surface of the filtration element (nets area constituted over 10% of the membranes area), what protected the membranes assembled inside the module. The filter efficiency decreased when the deposit layer covered the entire surface of pre-filter element, and after a few hours (period of 10-20 h) the formation of crystallite on the membrane surface was also observed. Therefore, the formed deposit was systematically removed (at every 5 h) from this pre-filter by 3 wt.% HCl solutions. The periodical rinsing of nets by acid did not have a negative influence on the membrane
Study on Kneading and Molding of PP/TiO2 Nanocomposite
Authors: Huang C. K. , Cheng F. S.
Published: June 2009

This paper investigates the kneading and molding of PP (polypropylene) with nano-TiO2 (Titanium dioxide) powder having sizes in the range of 50 nm. It was found that quality feedstock with uniform nanopowder dispersion was achieved only when the kneading was performed for optimum time under optimum torque using a custom-made triple-screw kneader with a high shear stress. The torque and kneading time needed for PP composite with 40 wt.% nano-TiO2 is double that required for the one with 10 wt.%. Rheological and impact properties of composites with 10 wt.% and 40 wt.% filler loading were also analyzed. In addition, a very important result revealed that a simple micro-grating can be successfully used as a mold insert to replicate micro-features made with PP/nano-TiO2 feedstock using injection molding conducted under a high forming pressure and evacuation of the mold.
Impact of the Effluents of Textile Dyeing Industries on the Surface Water Quality inside D.N.D Embankment, Narayanganj
Authors: Sultana Mahfuza S , Islam M Shahidul , Saha Ratnajit , Al-Mansur MA
Published: June 2009

The study was carried out in order to assess the impact of the various pollutants of textile dyeing effluents on the surface water quality of the industrial area inside Dhaka-Narayanganj-Demra (D.N.D) embankment, Narayanganj. Physicochemical parameters such as TSS, TDS, DO, pH, EC, Turbidity, BOD, COD, anionic parameters such as F-, Cl-, NO2 -, NO3 -, SO4 - and PO4 3- and heavy metals such as Pb, Zn, Cd and Cu of the samples were investigated by using various techniques. The results showed that, textile dyeing industries inside D.N.D embankment area discharges effluents composed of various physicochemical and anionic pollutants at considerably higher level compared to pollution limit. Further, the surface water of the D.N.D channel, ponds and lakes around the studied textile dyeing industries also contain various physicochemical and anionic pollutants at intolerable limit. A significant correlation was also observed among some important water parameters of the effluents and surface water. The above findings point out that the surface water around the studied textile dyeing industries is highly polluted by the industrial activities of the D.N.D. embankment area and not good for human consumption. Key words: Industrial effluents, D.N.D embankment, Surface water quality, Environmental impact.      doi: 10.3329/bjsir.v44i1.2715 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 44(1), 65-80, 2009
Removal of Arsenic From Wastewater Using Bentonite
Authors: Zahra Naseem , Sheikh Shahid T , Mahmood Ansar , Javed Khalid
Published: June 2009

Arsenic in water can do harm to human health. High arsenic concentrations have been reported recently from the USA, China, Chile, Bangladesh, Taiwan, Mexico, Argentina, Poland, Canada, Hungary, Japan and India. Conventional techniques used for arsenic removal involves oxidation, precipitation, membrane separation. The present study involves the removal of arsenic from wastewater by batch adsorption technique using bentonite. Bentonite contains montmorillonite which has the quality to adsorb inorganic and organic materials. Relying upon arsenic test strip method, the quantity of arsenic was determined after the treatment of 500 ppb arsenic solution with bentonite. Percentage adsorption was determined for bentonite-arsenic solution system as a function of i) contact time, ii) pH iii) temperature iv) mesh size and v) adsorbate dose. Maximum arsenic adsorption was observed at 20OC at pH 2 and 8. Minimum particle size favors maximum arsenic adsorption. The time taken to maintain equilibrium was 30 minutes. Bentonite is suitable for removal of arsenic from wastewater. Key words: Arsenic removal, Bentonite , Batch adsorption, Wastewater   doi: 10.3329/bjsir.v44i1.2716 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 44(1), 81-86, 2009
Identification of Calcium Sulphoaluminate Formation between Alunite and Limestone
Authors: Kim Hyung-Seok , Han Gi-Chun , Ahn Ji-Whan , Cho Kye-Hong , Cho Hee-Chan
Published: June 2009

This study was carried out to identify the conditions of formation of calcium sulphoaluminate (3CaO·3Al2O3·CaSO4) by the sintering of a limestone (CaCO3) and alunite [K2SO4·Al2(SO4)3·4Al(OH)3] mixture with the following reagents: K2SO4, CaCO3, Al(OH)3, CaSO4·2H2O, and SiO2. When K2SO4, CaCO3, Al(OH)3, CaSO4·2H2O were mixed in molar ratios of 1:3:6:3 and sintered at 1,200~1,300 °C, only 3CaO·3Al2O3·CaSO4 and calcium langbeinite (2CaSO4·K2SO4) were generated. With an amount of CaO that is less than the stoichiometric molar ratio, 3CaO·3Al2O3·CaSO4 was formed and anhydrite (CaSO4) did not react and remained behind. With the amount of CaSO4 that is less than the stoichiometric molar ratio, the amounts of 3CaO·3Al2O3·CaSO4 and 2CaSO4·K2SO4 decreased, and that of CaO·Al2O3 increased. In the K2SO4-CaO-Al2O3-CaSO4-SiO2 system, to stabilize the formation of 3CaO·3Al2O3·CaSO4, 2CaSO4·K2SO4, and β-2CaO·SiO2, the molar ratios of CaO: Al2O3: CaSO4 must be kept at 3:3:1 and that of CaO/SiO2, over 2.0; otherwise, the generated amount of 3CaO·3Al2O3·CaSO4 decreased and that of gehlenite (2CaO·Al2O3·SiO2) with no hydration increased quantitatively. Therefore, if all SO3(g) generated by the thermal decomposition of alunite reacts with CaCO3 (or CaO, the thermal decomposition product of limestone) to form CaSO4 in an alunite- limestone system, 1 mol of pure alunite reacts with 6 mol of limestone to form 1 mol of 3CaO·3Al2O3·CaSO4 and 1 mol of 2CaSO4·K2SO4.