bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Aldehydes in Wet Deposition
Authors: Czaplicka Marianna , Jaworek Katarzyna , Wochnik Agnieszka
Published: July 2014

The paper presents two sample preparation procedures for the determination of aldehydes in wet deposition. In both cases the 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine derivatization and solid phase extraction were applied. The derivatization in method A was applied before the extraction, the extraction in method B was carried out with simultaneous derivatisation. Accuracy of both methods was evaluated on the basis of the analysis of aqueous solutions of selected carbonyl compounds. Both methods were characterized by good recovery, however, due to the precision of the method expressed as RSD for testing of environmental samples the method B was used.

The analysis of environmental samples showed significant differences in the concentrations of aldehydes in wet deposition, depending on the location of the sampling point. In the case of samples taken from agricultural areas the predominant aldehydes were formaldehyde and acetaldehyde. Formaldehyde was from 31% to 47% of the determined compounds. While in samples collected near a traffic source, in the deposition acrolein was determined at the levels from 62% to 64% of the identified compounds.
Monitoring of Trichloroethene and Tetrachloroethene Content in Soil-Water Environment in Third Phase of Ecological Audit of Land
Authors: Pusz Agnieszka , Kulig Andrzej
Published: July 2014

Trichloroethene (TCE) and tetrachloroethene (PCE) are chemical compounds which pose a serious threat for human health. Their specific properties make it possible that these substances may linger in soil and water for many years. These are the reasons why wells with water designed for drinking purposes have been subject of monitoring since 2006. This paper presents the results of monitoring research conducted in the soil-water environment within the framework in third phase of an ecological audit of land. The ecological audit of land made it possible to identify the cause and degree of the degradation, and helped formulate rationale for remedy decisions pertaining to the land (remediation/reclamation). The objective of the paper was to determine the pollution status of the soil-water environment and, subsequently, monitor (in years 2008-2010) the contents of the hazardous substances, namely trichloroethene and tetrachloroethene, within the area of the potential impact of metallurgical plant located in borders of the Main Underground Water Reservoir Wierzbica-Ostrowiec (GZWP 420) in in voivodeship Świętokrzyskie.
The Effect of Solvent, Hydrogen Peroxide and Dioxide Titanium on Degradation of PCBs, Using Microwave Radiation in Order to Reduce Occupational Exposure
Authors: Tajik Reza , Mohabadi Hasan Asilian , Khavanin Ali , Jafari Ahmad Jonidi , Eshrati Babak
Published: July 2014

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are one group of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that are of international concern because of global distribution, persistence, and toxicity. Removal of these compounds from the environment remains a very difficult challenge because the compounds are highly hydrophobic and have very low solubility in water. A 900 W domestic microwave oven, pyrex vessel reactor, pyrex tube connector and condensing system were used in this experiment. Radiation was discontinuous and ray powers were 540, 720 and 900 W. The PCBS were analyzed by GC-ECD. The application of microwave radiation and H2O2/TiO2 agents for the degradation of polychlorinated biphenyl contaminated oil was explored in this study. PCB – contaminated oil was treated in a pyrex reactor by microwave irradiation at 2450 MHz with the addition of H2O2/TiO2. A novel grain TiO2 (GT01) was used. The determination of PCB residues in oil by gas chromatography (GC) revealed that rates of PCB decomposition were highly dependent on microwave power, exposure time, ratio to solvent with transformer oil in 3:1, the optimal amount of GT01 (0.2 g) and 0.116 mol of H2O2 were used in the study. It was suggested that microwave irradiation with the assistance of H2O2/TiO2 might be a potential technology for the degradation of PCB – contaminated oil. The experiments show that MW irradiation, H2O2 oxidant and TiO2 catalyst lead to a degradation efficiency of PCBs only in the presence of ethanol. The results showed that the addition of ethanol significantly enhanced degradation efficiency of PCBs.
Influence of Initial Alkalinity of Lignocellulosic Waste on Their Enzymatic Degradation
Authors: Wołczyński Marcin , Janosz-Rajczyk Marta
Published: July 2014

The presented results of research on the effectiveness of enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic waste, depending on their initial depolymerisation in alkaline medium were considered in the context of the possibility of their further use in the fermentation media focused on the recovery of energy in the form of molecular hydrogen. The aim of this study was to determine the appropriate dose and concentration of a chemical reagent, whose efficiency would be high enough to cause decomposition of the complex, but without an excessive production of by-products which could adversely affect the progress and effectiveness of the enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation. The effect of treatment on physical-chemical changes of homogenates’ properties such as pH, COD, the concentration of monosaccharide and total sugars and the concentration of total suspended solids and volatile suspended solids was determined. The enzymatic decomposition of lignocellulosic complex was repeatedly more efficient if the sample homogenates were subjected to an initial exposure to NaOH. The degree of conversion of complex sugars into simple sugars during enzymatic hydrolysis of homogenates pre-alkalized to pH 11.5 and 12.0 was 83.3 and 84.2% respectively, which should be sufficient for efficient hydrogen fermentation process.
Nitrogen in the Process of Waste Activated Sludge Anaerobic Digestion
Authors: Suschka Jan , Grübel Klaudiusz
Published: July 2014

Primary or secondary sewage sludge in medium and large WWTP are most often processed by anaerobic digestion, as a method of conditioning, sludge quantity minimization and biogas production. With the aim to achieve the best results of sludge processing several modifications of technologies were suggested, investigated and introduced in the full technical scale. Various sludge pretreatment technologies before anaerobic treatment have been widely investigated and partially introduced. Obviously, there are always some limitations and some negative side effects. Selected aspects have been presented and discussed. The problem of nitrogen has been highlighted on the basis of the carried out investigations. The single and two step - mesophilic and thermophilic - anaerobic waste activated sludge digestion processes, preceded by preliminary hydrolysis were investigated. The aim of lab-scale experiments was pre-treatment of the sludge by means of low intensive alkaline and hydrodynamic disintegration. Depending on the pretreatment technologies and the digestion temperature large ammonia concentrations, up to 1800 mg NH4/dm3 have been measured. Return of the sludge liquor to the main sewage treatment line means additional nitrogen removal costs. Possible solutions are discussed.
Ethno-Religious Heritage of Former Eastern Territories of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth in Contemporary Poland
Authors: Rykała Andrzej
Published: July 2014

The main objective of this paper is to present the national and religious heritage of the Eastern Borderlands in contemporary Poland. The paper deals with the genesis and selected aspects of the spatial development of the ethnic and religious minorities (mainly Tartars-Muslims, Karaites and Armenians) that date back to the eastern areas of the former Republic (including the territories of Belarus, Lithuania and Ukraine) but, due to the post-war border changes and migrations, formed clusters in contemporary Poland and organized various forms of group life.
Ajdukiewicz przeciw reizmowi
Authors: Grygianiec Mariusz
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

W niniejszym tekście zamierzałem, po pierwsze, przypomnieć zarzuty wobec reizmu skonstruowane przez Kazimierza Ajdukiewicza, po drugie przytoczyć niektóre odpowiedzi na owe zarzuty, sformułowane zarówno przez Tadeusza Kotarbińskiego, jak i przez Czesława Lejewskiego, po trzecie wskazać, które z odpowiedzi Lejewskiego usuwają czeic zarzutów Ajdukiewicza, po czwar-te - wykazać, dlaczego pozostałe odpowiedzi na niektóre zarzuty Ajdukiewicza nie są przekonujące. Ogólnym celem tej pracy jest uzasadnienie daleko posuniętego sceptycyzmu wobec reizmu semantycznego. Staram się uzasadnić przekonanie, iż jedynym rozsądnym rozwiązaniem dla reisty jest rezygnacja z semantycznej czeici jego doktryny. W pracy zachowuję neutralnosc wobec ontologii reizmu, choć moje predylekcje metafizyczne rozmijają się całkowicie z reistycznym obrazem świata.
Ajdukiewicz: granice racjonalizmu
Authors: Jedynak Anna
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

Ajdukiewicz opowiadał się za szerokim racjonalizmem. Jako dwa podstawo-we kryteria racjonalności przekonań wymieniał ich komunikowalnosc i inter-subiektywną sprawdzalność. Jednak czasem zdaje się on akceptować pewne szczególne kroki poznawcze, nieracjonalne w powyższym sensie. 1) Neopozy-tywistyczną eliminację metafizyki uważał za zbyt radykalną. 2) Nauki empi-ryczne wspierają się na bezpośrednim doświadczeniu, które jest, jego zdaniem, subiektywne i niepowtarzalne. 3) W aksjologii przypisywał poznawczą rolę uczuciom. 4) W póznych pogłdach uznał, że mowa nie jest wyczerpujacym środkiem komunikacji myśli. We wszystkich tych punktach warunkiem pod-jęcia racjonalnej działalności poznawczej okazuje się uprzednie ustępstwo na rzecz zaakceptowania kroków irracjonalnych, jednak w granicach kontrolowa-nych przez rozum.
Holistyczna teoria znaczenia Kazimierza Ajdukiewicza. Próba krytycznej analizy
Authors: Maciaszek Janusz
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

Dyrektywalna teoria znaczenia powstała w okresie, gdy Kazimierz Ajdukie-wicz pozostawał pod wpływem radykalnego konwencjonalizmu. Pogłdy te spowodowały odrzucenie korespondencyjnej teorii prawdy i próbę zbudowania holistycznej i nieodniesieniowej teorii znaczenia. Motywem napisania mojego artykułu było przekonanie, że teoria znaczenia Ajdukiewicza może zostać - po odpowiednich modyfikacjach - zastosowana do języka naturalnego. W tym celu analizuję konsekwencje wybranych aspektów teorii dyrektywalnej i pró-buję wskazać, w jaki sposób teoria ta powinna bye zmodyfikowana, aby mogła pełnić funkcję teorii znaczenia j?zyka naturalnego. Podstawową wadą teorii dyrektywalnej, która uniemożliwia pełnienie tej funkcji, jest brak rekurencyj-ności, co sprawia, że nie wyjaśnia ona, w jaki sposób znaczenie zdania jest wyznaczone przez znaczenia występujacych w nim slów. Konieczne jest zatem uzupełnienie teorii Ajdukiewicza o komponent rekurencyjny. Kolejna wada tej teorii wiąze się z budową macierzy języka, do której Ajdukiewicz wprowadza dane doświadczenia jako komponent pozajęzykowy. Wada ta może bye łatwo usunięta przez odwołanie się do holistycznego aspektu teorii. Również podana przez Ajdukiewicza definicja związku znaczeniowego powoduje niepoządane konsekwencje, dotyczace znaczen wyrażeń w językach otwartych.
O semantycznej i formalnej teorii poznania. Ajdukiewicz – Suszko – Woleński
Authors: Olech Adam
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

Metaepistemologiczny projekt Kazimierza Ajdukiewicza zwany „semantycz-n4 teorią poznania” postuluje, aby podchodzić do poznania od strony języka. Projekt ten zarazem uzasadnia ów analityczny postulat, wykazując, ze jeśli poznanie ma bye określone co do treści, to do poznania tak właśnie powinno się podchodzić. Podejście to pojmuje poznanie jako twór, na który składają się językowe znaczenia wyrażeń. Takie pojmowanie poznania posiada tę zaletę iż pozwala wykorzystać w epistemologii rezultaty uzyskane w metamatema-tyce do rozwiązywania pewnych tradycyjnych sporów epistemologicznych. Projekt formalnej teorii poznania przedstawił Roman Suszko. Inspiracją tego projektu była semantyczna teoria poznania Kazimierza Ajdukiewicza, której Roman Suszko nadal postać sformalizowaną. Kontynuatorem formalnoepiste-mologicznych badah Suszki jest Jan Wolehski. Pytanie, które autor artykułu stawia i na które udziela odpowiedzi, brzmi: jakie warunki winny bye spenio-ne, aby można było przejsc od klasycznej (subiektywnej) teorii poznania do teorii poznania rozumianej semantycznie, a w szczególności do jej sformalizo-wanej postaci, i aby zarazem wyniki uzyskane na gruncie semantycznej teorii poznania były równoważne wynikom uzyskanym na gruncie teorii poznania pojmowanej klasycznie?
Logiczne podstawy nauczania, czyli rozważania o kulturze logicznej i podstawach rzetelnego myślenia
Authors: Ossowska Katarzyna
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

W artykule przedstawiam dydaktyczny dorobek Kazimierza Ajdukiewicza. Jego koncepcja nauczania może stanowić pryzmat oceny wspólcześnie funk-cjonujacych wzorców wychowawczo-dydaktycznych. Środowisko filozoficzne, w którym wzrastały idee Ajdukiewicza, miało istotny wpływ na jego nauczy-cielską postawę. Zwłaszcza autorytet, jakim był dla swych uczniów Kazimierz Twardowski, założyciel szkoły lwowsko-warszawskiej, ukształtował ją w sposób zasadniczy. Dlatego jednym z ważniejszych punktów podjętych w artykule rozważań jest pytanie o aktualnosc metod i idealów dydaktycznych, charakte-rystycznych dla całej Szkoły.
Płaszczyzny sporu o realizm: Kazimierz Ajdukiewicz i Michael Dummett
Authors: Szubka Tadeusz
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

W swoich pracach Kazimierz Ajdukiewicz niejednokrotnie podejmował zagad-nienia oplatające się wokól tego, co przyjęło się w literaturze określać mianem sporu o realizm. W standardowy sposób zwięźle opisywał uczestników tego sporu. Jego program epistemologii semantycznej sprawił, że stał się on prekur-sorem wyodrębnienia semantycznej płaszczyzny sporu o realizm i przypisania centralnej roli w tym sporze zasadzie dwuwartościowości, wyprzedzając pod tym wzgłdem brytyjskiego filozofa Michaela Dummetta o ponad dwadzieścia piex lat. Należy jednak pamiętać, że Ajdukiewicza i Dummetta wiele laczyło w metodologii prowadzenia sporu, natomiast wiele dzieliło, jeśli idzie o jego rozwiązanie. Pierwszy bronił realizmu, a drugi skłaniał się w strong antyreali-zmu semantycznego, który można interpretować jako formę idealizmu trans-cendentalnego.
Logiczny charakter zdań wyobraźniowych, ich semantyka i ontologia
Authors: Kowalik Łukasz
Published: July 2014

Streszczenie

Wbrew stanowisku Kazimierza Ajdukiewicza można bronić pogłdu, że zda-nie ma charakter logiczny nie dopiero wtedy, gdy ma wartość logiczny, lecz już wtedy, gdy ma treść dającę się wytłumaczyć w innych zdaniach. Taki jest przypadek spotykanych w literaturze pięknej zdań wyobraźniowych, które w przeciwnym razie trzeba uważać za ulomne logicznie, a ich niedosłow-ność za logiczny wadliwość. Nazwijmy posiadanie treści przez zdanie funkcją konotacyjnę a posiadanie odniesienia w świecie rzeczywistym funkcją denotacyjną. Wówczas zdania wyobraźniowe nalezą do zdań branych w funkcji konotacyjnej. Z ogólu tych zdań wyróżnia zdania wyobraźniowe ich dodat-kowa funkcja pragmatyczna, jaką jest sugestywność estetyczna. Wygodnie jest umieścić semantykę zdań wyobraźniowych w platohskiej ontologii trzech światów, w której świat pierwszy (fizyczny) składa się z rzeczy w pewnych sta-nach, świat drugi (psychiczny) z ludzkich przeżyć wewnętrznych, świat trzeci (logiczny) ze znaczeh slów. To właśnie ze znaczeniami slów naszego języka możemy utożsamić konotacje. Jako poboczną dyrektywę metodologiczną dla ontologii trzech światów warto jest przyjąć tezę reizmu, która pozwala redu-kować światy „trzeci” i „drugi” do bytów podstawowych świata pierwszego - rzeczy.
The Origin of Property Buyers in Poznań and its Suburbs
Authors: Tanaś Justyna
Published: July 2014

The market for land for single-family housing is one of the most important segments of the real estate market. Over the last several years, we have witnessed the development of this market in the suburban areas of large agglomerations. This is connected with the intensified migration of people from the centers of big cities, and with the development of housing in suburban zones.

The aim of this paper is to present the structure of the territorial origin of buyers purchasing plots designated for single-family housing in Poznań and its suburbs (with division into buyers derived from the city of Poznań, from the Poznań poviat (district), the Wielkopolska voivodeship (province), the rest of the country, and from abroad). The analysis covers the years 1995-2010.
University Space Management Exemplified by Selected European Entities
Authors: Rymarzak Małgorzata
Published: July 2014

The rapid changes taking place in the environment of academic institutions (market rules in tertiary education, the greater availability of university education, globalization and internationalization, emergence of knowledge-based societies) force them to adjust to the new environment and to adopt a new approach to management, (Friga, Berris, Sullivan 2003; Jajszczyk 2009; Clarysse, Mosey, Lambrecht 2009; Law, Ho 2009; Amthor, Metzger 2011; Leja 2013), as well as to competition and value creation.

Due to the pressure of their environment, universities have to be more efficient, functional and effective (Antonowicz 2005; Robbins 2008). They are increasingly more and more often expected to be more effective in their work, open to the outside world, and more entrepreneurial (Keast 1995; Etzkovitz, Webster 2000; Etzkovitz 2004; Kirby 2006). Without meeting these expectations, success on the market cannot be achieved.

In many renowned European universities, the strategic role of real estate as an asset creating the value of the entity has long been emphasized. This means that the effective use of space and implementation of a rational space management policy enable the entity to enhance its value and affect its economic condition (Wolski, Załęczna 2011; Konowalczuk, Ramian 2012). The existing space management expertise of foreign universities makes it possible to implement this knowledge in the process of university management in Poland. The basic goal of this paper is to present the nature of the space management process, as well as chief indicators that are used in selected European universities to assess the degree of estate utilization. In other words, space management solutions used outside of Poland will be sought, which can help to resolve the problems of many Polish tertiary institutions.
Identifying Selected Behavioral Determinants of Risk and Uncertainty on the Real Estate Market
Authors: Brzezicka Justyna , Wisniewski Radoslaw
Published: July 2014

Various market behaviors can be characterized as risky or uncertain, thus their observation is important to the real estate market system. The extensive use of behavioral factors facilitates their implementation and studies in relation to the real estate market system. The behavioral approach has established its own instrumentation which enables elements of risk and uncertainty to be quantified.

The belief that behavioral determinants connected with risk and uncertainty occur in the real estate market system (REMS) is the research hypothesis of the present paper which aims to:

1) analyze risk and uncertainty in the REM system using the behavioral approach,

2) identify and systematize behavioral determinants of risk and uncertainly shaping the REM,

3) develop a methodology for measuring behavioral determinants of risk and uncertainty in the REM,

4) present the significance of behavioral determinants of risk and uncertainty on the example of the Olsztyn REM.

The aims were realized by means of a laboratory experiment conducted on a representative sample, as well as through the statistical verification of the obtained results. The article builds on current knowledge regarding the mechanisms of how the REM operates by introducing new issues connected with the behavioral approach to the topic of risk and uncertainty.
Satellite Estimation and Ground Based Measurements of Solar UV Index in Kathmandu
Authors: Sharma Niranjan Prasad
Published: July 2014

The study is based on the satellite estimation and ground measurements of solar UV index in Kathmandu for the year 2009. Kathmandu (27.720N, 85.320E) is located at an elevation of 1350m from the sea level. The ground based measurement and satellite estimation was performed by NILU-UV irradiance meter and EOS Aura OMI spacecraft. The NILU-UV irradiance meter measures UV radiation in different spectral range. The Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) is a spectrometer designed to monitor solar radiation in spectral range of (270-500) nm. This study shows that satellite overestimates the ground based (GB) UV Index (UVI) before monsoon by 103.6 % whereas during the monsoon period overestimation comes down to 70.8 %. The correlation coefficient (r) between ozone column from satellite and ground based measurement before monsoon and after monsoon is also studied. It is observed that the correlation between satellite estimated ozone column and ground based ozone column before and after monsoon is 0.83. The study showed that the estimation of OMI before monsoon is high than after monsoon. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10664Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 18–26
Basics of Informed Logistics in Just-in-Time Production Sequencing and Supply Chain Systems
Authors: Thapa Gyan Bahadur
Published: July 2014

Informed logistics is one of the quite recent and challenging research issues in the domain of supply chain production. The real-time information is taken as one of the productivity factor in all sort of business operations. In this paper, we present a very basic and brief literature of informed logistics together with the recent developments in this area. Observing information flows among logistics functions in production processes, we explain some information technology enablers of informed logistics. We propose an ABSO model for better sharing and operation of information, and finally we indicate the applications of informed logistics in real-time scheduling. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10670Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 54–64
Estimation of Global Solar Radiation using Pyranometer and NILU-UV Irradiance Meter at Pokhara Valley in Nepal
Authors: Poudyal K. N. , Bhattarai B. K. , Sapkota B. K. , Kjeldstad Berit , Karki N. R.
Published: July 2014

The global solar radiation (GSR) and cloud transmittance factor (cf) are measured at the horizontal surface since 2009 using calibrated CMP6 Pyranometer and NILUUV Irradiance Meter at Pokhara (28.22°N, 83.32°E) which is about 800m from the sea level lying just 20km south of the Himalayas. This paper explains the daily, monthly and seasonal variation of global solar radiation and also compared with temperature and rainfall to global solar radiation. The annual average daily global solar radiation is about 4.81 kWh/m2/day which is sufficient to promote solar active and passive solar energy technology at sub-Himalaya terrain Pokhara and other similar geographical locations. The correlation coefficient 0.70 is found in between clearness index (K) and cloud transmittance factor (cf). This novel result can be used for location of similar meteorological and geographical characteristics at which solar data are not available. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10672Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 69–78
Preparation and Characterization of Activated Carbon from Lapsi (Choerospondias axillaris) Seed Stone by Chemical Activation with Potassium Hydroxide
Authors: Joshi Sahira , Pokharel Bhadra Prasad
Published: July 2014

Activated carbon (AC) was prepared from Lapsi seed stone by chemical activation with Potassium hydroxide at 400°C. The AC was characterized by pH, moisture content, Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), methylene blue (MB) and iodine (I2) number. FT-IR spectra indicated the presence of various oxygen containing functional groups on the surface of AC. SEM images show the highly porous characteristics of AC with full of cavities. The Iodine number of AC revealed that the AC was found to be highly micro-porous. The adsorption of methylene blue by prepared AC was analyzed by the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms. The data fitted well to the Langmuir isotherm with monolayer adsorption capacity 158 mg/g. The analysis showed that the AC prepared from Lapsi seed stone activated with potassium hydroxide could be a low-cost adsorbent with favorable surface properties. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10673Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 79–88
Numerical Simulation of Flow around a Spur Dike with Free Surface Flow in Fixed Flat Bed
Authors: Kafle Mukesh Raj
Published: July 2014

This paper presents a numerical model to simulate two- dimensional flow near a spur-dike. The Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) program namely Nays 2D has been used to simulate the flow field in a fixed flat bed around the spur dike introduced into the flow at 90° to the stream-wise direction. Cubic-Interpolated Pseudo-Particle (CIP) method was used as finite difference method to analyze the advection terms. In addition, several turbulence closurer models k-ε model, zero equation model and constant eddy viscosity model were applied and compared in order to achieve the best result. The simulated results were compared with existing experimental and computed data which agreed satisfactorily. Achieved results can prove that flow structure simulation around a spur dike could be done by Nays 2D numerical modelling very well.This paper presents a numerical model to simulate two- dimensional flow near a spur-dike. The Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) program namely Nays 2D has been used to simulate the flow field in a fixed flat bed around the spur dike introduced into the flow at 90° to the stream-wise direction. Cubic-Interpolated Pseudo-Particle (CIP) method was used as finite difference method to analyze the advection terms. In addition, several turbulence closurer models k-ε model, zero equation model and constant eddy viscosity model were applied and compared in order to achieve the best result. The simulated results were compared with existing experimental and computed data which agreed satisfactorily. Achieved results can prove that flow structure simulation around a spur dike could be done by Nays 2D numerical modelling very well. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10676Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 107–114
Economy-wide Implications of Low Carbon Electricity Based Mass Transport in Nepal
Authors: Shakya Shree Raj
Published: July 2014

Development of low carbon electricity based mass transport is considered as one of the promising options for perusing the low carbon development (LCD) path in 21st century by the global communities. But long term economy-wide implications of such policy is very much country specifics citing their variations in the availability and tapping potential of indigenous clean energy resources, access to the clean technologies, affordability and acceptability of such technologies, and so on. This paper studies the economy-wide consequences of introducing different levels of electrified mass transport systems in Nepal on the long term basis. The study develops and uses a multi-sector, single region, recursive dynamic computable general equilibrium model of Nepal (Nepal-TRNSCGE) with technology level disaggregation in the transport and electricity sectors. The study indicates that under transport electrification scenarios consisting of 10% to 30% electrification of the transport sector as compared to the base case by 2050, the country would benefit economically with the value of cumulative undiscounted GDP increasing in the range of 2.6% to 3.1% and the value of cumulative undiscounted equivalent variation in income (household welfare) increasing in the range of 25.3% to 147.9% during 2005 to 2050. The policy would promote energy efficiency improvement and cleaner economic development with significant reduction in the energy intensity of GDP in the range of 3.1% to 4.1% and greenhouse gas intensity of GDP in the range of 4.7% to 7.1%. This highlights the potential role of low carbon electricity based transport in achieving the LCD path in the country. Introducing foreign direct investment would further increase GDP but reduce household welfare. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10679Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 142–165
Removal of Ni (II) from Aqueous Solution by Adsorption onto Activated Carbon Prepared from Lapsi (Choerospondias axillaris) Seed Stone
Authors: Shrestha Rajeshwar M. , Varga Margit , Varga Imre , Yadav Amar P. , Pokharel Bhadra P. , Pradhananga Raja Ram
Published: July 2014

Activated carbons were prepared from Lapsi seed stone by the treatment with H2SO4 and HNO3 for the removal of Ni (II) ions from aqueous solution. Two activated carbon have been prepared from Lapsi seed stones by treating with conc.H2SO4 and a mixture of H2SO4 and HNO3 in the ratio of 1:1 by weight for removal of Ni(II) ions. Chemical characterization of the resultant activated carbons was studied by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy and Boehm titration which revealed the presence of oxygen containing surface functional groups like carboxyl, lactones and phenols in the carbons. The optimum pH for nickel adsorption is found to be 5. The adsorption data were better fitted with the Langmuir equations than Freundlich adsorption equation to describe the equilibrium isotherms. The maximum adsorption capacity of Ni (II) on the resultant activated carbons was 28.25.8 mg g-1 with H2SO4 and 69.49 mg g-1 with a mixture of H2SO4 and HNO3. The waste material used in the preparation of the activated carbons is inexpensive and readily available. Hence the carbons prepared from Lapsi seed stones can act as potential low cost adsorbents for the removal of Ni (II) from water. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jie.v9i1.10680Journal of the Institute of Engineering, Vol. 9, No. 1, pp. 166–174
Design, Fabrication and Temperature Sensitivity Testing of a Miniature Piezoelectric-Based Sensor for Current Measurements
Authors: Lao Steven , Chauhan Shamsheer , Pollock Tim , Schröder Thorben , Cho In , Salehian Armaghan
Published: July 2014

Grid capacity, reliability, and efficient distribution of power have been major challenges for traditional power grids in the past few years. Reliable and efficient distribution within these power grids will continue to depend on the development of lighter and more efficient sensing units with lower costs in order to measure current and detect failures across the grid. The objective of this paper is to present the development of a miniature piezoelectric-based sensor for AC current measurements in single conductors, which are used in power transmission lines. Additionally presented in this paper are the thermal testing results for the sensor to assess its robustness for various operating temperatures.
Novel Additive Manufacturing Pneumatic Actuators and Mechanisms for Food Handling Grippers
Authors: Blanes Carlos , Mellado Martín , Beltran Pablo
Published: July 2014

Conventional pneumatic grippers are widely used in industrial pick and place robot processes for rigid objects. They are simple, robust and fast, but their design, motion and features are limited, and they do not fulfil the final purpose. Food products have a wide variety of shapes and textures and are susceptible to damaged. Robot grippers for food handling should adapt to this wide range of dimensions and must be fast, cheap, reasonably reliable, and with cheap and reasonable maintenance costs. They should not damage the product and must meet hygienic conditions. The additive manufacturing (AM) process is able to manufacture parts without significant restrictions, and is Polyamide approved as food contact material by FDA. This paper presents that, taking the best of plastic flexibility, AM allows the implementation of novel actuators, original compliant mechanisms and practical grippers that are cheap, light, fast, small and easily adaptable to specific food products. However, if they are not carefully designed, the results can present problems, such as permanent deformations, low deformation limits, and low operation speed. We present possible solutions for the use of AM to design proper robot grippers for food handling. Some successful results, such as AM actuators based on deformable air chambers, AM compliant mechanisms, and grippers developed in a single part will be introduced and discussed.
The Effect of Building Aspect Ratio on Energy Efficiency: A Case Study for Multi-Unit Residential Buildings in Canada
Authors: McKeen Philip , Fung Alan
Published: July 2014

This paper examines the energy consumption of varying aspect ratio in multi-unit residential buildings in Canadian cities. The aspect ratio of a building is one of the most important determinants of energy efficiency. It defines the building surface area by which heat is transferred between the interior and exterior environment. It also defines the amount of building area that is subject to solar gain. The extent to which this can be beneficial or detrimental depends on the aspect ratio and climate. This paper evaluates the relationship between the geometry of buildings and location to identify a design vernacular for energy-efficient designs across Canada.
Modeling of Proton-Conducting Solid Oxide Fuel Cells Fueled with Syngas
Authors: Ni Meng , Shao Zongping , Chan Kwong
Published: July 2014

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with proton conducting electrolyte (H-SOFCs) are promising power sources for stationary applications. Compared with other types of fuel cells, one distinct feature of SOFC is their fuel flexibility. In this study, a 2D model is developed to investigate the transport and reaction in an H-SOFC fueled with syngas, which can be produced from conventional natural gas or renewable biomass. The model fully considers the fluid flow, mass transfer, heat transfer and reactions in the H-SOFC. Parametric studies are conducted to examine the physical and chemical processes in H-SOFC with a focus on how the operating parameters affect the H-SOFC performance. It is found that the presence of CO dilutes the concentration of H2, thus decreasing the H-SOFC performance. With typical syngas fuel, adding H2O cannot enhance the performance of the H-SOFC, although water gas shift reaction can facilitate H2 production.
A Quantitative Index of Forest Structural Sustainability
Authors: Cale Jonathan , Teale Stephen , West Justin , Zhang Lianjun , Castello David , Devlin Peter , Castello John
Published: July 2014

Forest health is a complex concept including many ecosystem functions, interactions and values. We develop a quantitative system applicable to many forest types to assess tree mortality with respect to stable forest structure and composition. We quantify impacts of observed tree mortality on structure by comparison to baseline mortality, and then develop a system that distinguishes between structurally stable and unstable forests. An empirical multivariate index of structural sustainability and a threshold value (70.6) derived from 22 nontropical tree species’ datasets differentiated structurally sustainable from unsustainable diameter distributions. Twelve of 22 species populations were sustainable with a mean score of 33.2 (median = 27.6). Ten species populations were unsustainable with a mean score of 142.6 (median = 130.1). Among them, Fagus grandifolia, Pinus lambertiana, P. ponderosa, and Nothofagus solandri were attributable to known disturbances; whereas the unsustainability of Abies balsamea, Acer rubrum, Calocedrus decurrens, Picea engelmannii, P. rubens, and Prunus serotina populations were not. This approach provides the ecological framework for rational management decisions using routine inventory data to objectively: determine scope and direction of change in structure and composition, assess excessive or insufficient mortality, compare disturbance impacts in time and space, and prioritize management needs and allocation of scarce resources.
Nrf2-Mediated HO-1 Induction Coupled with the ERK Signaling Pathway Contributes to Indirect Antioxidant Capacity of Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester in HepG2 Cells
Authors: Kim Jin-Kyoung , Jang Hae-Dong
Published: July 2014

The objective of this study is to investigate the contributing effect of the nuclear transcription factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-mediated signaling pathway on the indirect antioxidant capacity of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) against oxidative stress in HepG2 cells. The result of an antioxidant response element (ARE)-luciferase assay showed that CAPE stimulated ARE promoter activity resulting in increased transcriptional and translational activities of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). In addition, CAPE treatment enhanced Nrf2 accumulation in the nucleus and the post-translational phosphorylation level of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) among several protein kinases tested. Treatment with ERK inhibitor U126 completely suppressed CAPE-induced ERK phosphorylation and HO-1 expression, but it only partly inhibited CAPE-induced Nrf2 accumulation and ARE promoter. Using the 2',7'-dichlorofluorescein-diacetate (DCFH-DA) method, the cellular antioxidant capacity of CAPE against 2,2'-azobis (2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH)- or H2O2-induced oxidative stress also was shown to be partially suppressed by the ERK inhibitor. From the overall results it is proposed that the indirect antioxidant activity of CAPE against oxidative stress in HepG2 cells is partially attributed to induction of HO-1, which is regulated by Kelch-like erythroid-cell-derived protein with CNC homology (ECH)-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-independent Nrf2 activation relying on post-translational phosphorylation of ERK.
Novel Inhibitory Effect of N-(2-Hydroxycyclohexyl)valiolamine on Melanin Production in a Human Skin Model
Authors: Bin Bum-Ho , Joo Yung , Lee Ai-Young , Shin Song , Cho Eun-Gyung , Lee Tae
Published: July 2014

Hyper-pigmentation causes skin darkness and medical disorders, such as post-inflammatory melanoderma and melasma. Therefore, the development of anti-melanogenic agents is important for treating these conditions and for cosmetic production. In our previous paper, we demonstrated that the anti-diabetic drug voglibose, a valiolamine derivative, is a potent anti-melanogenic agent. In addition, we proposed an alternative screening strategy to identify valiolamine derivatives with high skin permeability that act as anti-melanogenic agents when applied topically. In this study, we synthesized several valiolamine derivatives with enhanced lipophilicity and examined their inhibitory effects in a human skin model. N-(2-hydroxycyclohexyl)valiolamine (HV) possesses a stronger inhibitory effect on melanin production than voglibose in a human skin model, suggesting that HV is a more potent anti-melanogenic agent for the skin.
Applications and Mechanisms of Ionic Liquids in Whole-Cell Biotransformation
Authors: Fan Lin-Lin , Li Hong-Ji , Chen Qi-He
Published: July 2014

Ionic liquids (ILs), entirely composed of cations and anions, are liquid solvents at room temperature. They are interesting due to their low vapor pressure, high polarity and thermostability, and also for the possibility to fine-tune their physicochemical properties through modification of the chemical structures of their cations or anions. In recent years, ILs have been widely used in biotechnological fields involving whole-cell biotransformations of biodiesel or biomass, and organic compound synthesis with cells. Research studies in these fields have increased from the past decades and compared to the typical solvents, ILs are the most promising alternative solvents for cell biotransformations. However, there are increasing limitations and new challenges in whole-cell biotransformations with ILs. There is little understanding of the mechanisms of ILs’ interactions with cells, and much remains to be clarified. Further investigations are required to overcome the drawbacks of their applications and to broaden their application spectrum. This work mainly reviews the applications of ILs in whole-cell biotransformations, and the possible mechanisms of ILs in microbial cell biotransformation are proposed and discussed.
Alternating Current Electrophoretic Deposition of Antibacterial Bioactive Glass-Chitosan Composite Coatings
Authors: Seuss Sigrid , Lehmann Maja , Boccaccini Aldo
Published: July 2014

Alternating current (AC) electrophoretic deposition (EPD) was used to produce multifunctional composite coatings combining bioactive glass (BG) particles and chitosan. BG particles of two different sizes were used, i.e., 2 μm and 20–80 nm in average diameter. The parameter optimization and characterization of the coatings was conducted by visual inspection and by adhesion strength tests. The optimized coatings were investigated in terms of their hydroxyapatite (HA) forming ability in simulated body fluid (SBF) for up to 21 days. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy results showed the successful HA formation on the coatings after 21 days. The first investigations were conducted on planar stainless steel sheets. In addition, scaffolds made from a TiAl4V6 alloy were considered to show the feasibility of coating of three dimensional structures by EPD. Because both BG and chitosan are antibacterial materials, the antibacterial properties of the as-produced coatings were investigated using E. coli bacteria cells. It was shown that the BG particle size has a strong influence on the antibacterial properties of the coatings.
Use of Propolis in the Sanitization of Lettuce
Authors: Feás Xesús , Pacheco Lazaro , Iglesias Antonio , Estevinho Leticia
Published: July 2014

The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of propolis in reducing the microbial load in ready-to-eat (RTE) and fresh whole head (FWH) lettuces (Lactuca sativa L.) type Batavia. Two sanitizing solutions were employed: sodium hypochlorite (SH) and propolis (PS), during 15 and 30 min. Tap water (TW) was used as a control. Regarding the mean reduction on aerobic mesophiles, psychrotrophic and fecal coliforms, the SH and PS treatments showed the same pattern of variation. In all cases, PS was slightly more effective in the microbiological reduction in comparison with commercial SH. Reductions between two and three log cycles were obtained with PS on aerobic mesophiles and psychrotrophic counts. The information obtained in the present study can be used to evaluate the potential use of propolis as product for sanitizing other vegetables and for developing other food preservation technologies, with impact on human health.
The Sternberg Triarchic Abilities Test (Level-H) is a Measure of g
Authors: Chooi Weng-Tink , Long Holly , Thompson Lee
Published: July 2014

Although the consensus in the field of human intelligence holds that a unitary factor (g) accounts for the majority of the variance among individuals, there are still some who argue that intelligence is composed of separate abilities and individual differences across abilities in combination are what constitutes intelligence. In keeping with the latter theoretical support, the Sternberg Triarchic Abilities Test (STAT) is an intelligence test that is designed to measure three distinct types of intelligence: analytical, practical, and creative. Several analyses were conducted to establish whether or not the triarchic model is empirically supported, or if a unitary construct is the best explanation of individual differences on this test. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses indicate that a g model is the best explanation for the data.
The Influence of Ziegler-Natta and Metallocene Catalysts on Polyolefin Structure, Properties, and Processing Ability
Authors: Shamiri Ahmad , Chakrabarti Mohammed , Jahan Shah , Hussain Mohd , Kaminsky Walter , Aravind Purushothaman , Yehye Wageeh
Published: July 2014

50 years ago, Karl Ziegler and Giulio Natta were awarded the Nobel Prize for their discovery of the catalytic polymerization of ethylene and propylene using titanium compounds and aluminum-alkyls as co-catalysts. Polyolefins have grown to become one of the biggest of all produced polymers. New metallocene/methylaluminoxane (MAO) catalysts open the possibility to synthesize polymers with highly defined microstructure, tacticity, and steroregularity, as well as long-chain branched, or blocky copolymers with excellent properties. This improvement in polymerization is possible due to the single active sites available on the metallocene catalysts in contrast to their traditional counterparts. Moreover, these catalysts, half titanocenes/MAO, zirconocenes, and other single site catalysts can control various important parameters, such as co-monomer distribution, molecular weight, molecular weight distribution, molecular architecture, stereo-specificity, degree of linearity, and branching of the polymer. However, in most cases research in this area has reduced academia as olefin polymerization has seen significant advancements in the industries. Therefore, this paper aims to further motivate interest in polyolefin research in academia by highlighting promising and open areas for the future.
Eight Tons of Material Footprint—Suggestion for a Resource Cap for Household Consumption in Finland
Authors: Lettenmeier Michael , Liedtke Christa , Rohn Holger
Published: July 2014

The paper suggests a sustainable material footprint of eight tons, per person, in a year as a resource cap target for household consumption in Finland. This means an 80% (factor 5) reduction from the present Finnish average. The material footprint is used as a synonym to the Total Material Requirement (TMR) calculated for products and activities. The paper suggests how to allocate the sustainable material footprint to different consumption components on the basis of earlier household studies, as well as other studies, on the material intensity of products, services, and infrastructures. It analyzes requirements, opportunities, and challenges for future developments in technology and lifestyle, also taking into account that future lifestyles are supposed to show a high degree of diversity. The targets and approaches are discussed for the consumption components of nutrition, housing, household goods, mobility, leisure activities, and other purposes. The paper states that a sustainable level of natural resource use by households is achievable and it can be roughly allocated to different consumption components in order to illustrate the need for a change in lifestyles. While the absolute material footprint of all the consumption components will have to decrease, the relative share of nutrition, the most basic human need, in the total material footprint is expected to rise, whereas much smaller shares than at present are proposed for housing and especially mobility. For reducing material resource use to the sustainable level suggested, both social innovations, and technological developments are required.