bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of full immunization among children aged 12-23 months in Ethiopia. Further analysis of the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey Data.
Authors: Asresie Melash Belachew , Fekadu Gedefaw Abeje , Nigatu Dabere , Dagnew Gizachew Worku
Published: October 2019

Background: Immunization program has become the most effective public health measure for the controlling of vaccine-preventable disease among children. Globally, immunization coverage is increasing, however, 19.4 million infants not vaccinated in 2015. Ethiopia is one of the Sub-Saharan African countries with a high number of children unimmunized. Although there are studies about immunization among children, there is a dearth of information about factors associated with full immunization. Therefore, this analysis was performed to identify factors associated with full immunization among children aged 12-23 months in Ethiopia. Methods : The analysis was done based on the 2016 Ethiopian Demography and Health Survey data. The 2016 Ethiopian Demography and Health Survey was a community based, cross-sectional study conducted from January 18, 2016, to June 27, 2016. The survey used a two-stage stratified random sampling technique. A total of 2004 children aged 12-23 months were included in the analysis. Both descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed using STATA. A P-value less than or equal to 0.05 at 95% confidence interval was set to test statistical significance. Result: Fully immunization coverage among children was 38.6%. Born at a health facility, living in Dire Dewa city, source of information from the card, mothers’ educational level (primary and secondary plus), and marital status (married and formerly married) were found positively associated with full immunization. On the other hand, smoking history of mothers and living in Afar, Amhara, Somalia, Gambella, and Oromia regions were negatively associated with full immunization. Conclusion: Fully immunization coverage among children was low. Children who were born at a health facility, source of information from the card, living Dire Dewa city, and whose mothers’ literate and married had higher Odds of being fully immunized. On the other hand, children whose mothers’ had a history of smoking and living Afar, Somalia, Gambella, Amhara and Oromia regions were had lower Odds of being fully immunized. Therefore strengthening institutional delivery and keeping immunization cards should be strengthened, and more emphasis should be given to children whose mothers’ illiterate, never married, smoker and living in Afar, Amhara, Somali, Gambella, and Oromia regions.
A new technique of epidural and intrathecal catheterization to evaluate pharmacokinetics of epidural administration in dogs: a prospective study
Authors: Kong Myoung Hoon , Kim Jung Eun , Lee Mi Kyoung , Lee Chung Hun , Lee Yeon Joo , Choi Sang Sik
Published: October 2019

Background: Experimental research on animals should be performed before applying new treatment modalities in humans. Among experimental animal models, canine model research is a commonly used method. Injecting drugs into the epidural has also been commonly used in the canine animal model. In canine models, epidural catheters are often inserted into the lumbosacral area during epidural drug injection. Unlike the existing canine model, we describe a new and alternative technique of epidural and intrathecal catheterization to investigate methods of epidural drug administration in dogs.

Methods: Twelve adult dogs were used in this study. The epidural procedures were performed with dogs in sternal recumbency under deep sedation. Epidural catheterization was perforemed at the T1-T2 intervertebral space with C-arm fluoroscopy guidance. After confirming the loss of resistance, a flexible epidural catheter was passed cranially to the C2-C3 level. The intrathecal procedures were performed with dogs in lateral recumbency under deep sedation. Intrathecal catheterization was performed through the cisterna magna with the neck slightly flexed. An 18-gauge Tuohy needle was inserted into the subarachnoid space through the atlanto-occipital space. After confirming cerebrospinal fluid leakage without bleeding, a flexible intrathecal catheter was passed caudally to the C2-C3 level.

Results: All epidural and intrathecal catheterizations were successfully performed under deep sedation without any complications.

Conclusion: The new technique of epidural and intrathecal catheterization in canines is an alternative procedure for investigating epidurally administered drugs.
Comparing effects of berberine on the growth and photosynthetic activities of Microcystis aeruginosa and Chlorella pyrenoidosa
Authors: Liu Lu , Zhang Shulin , Dai Wei , Bi Xiangdong , Zhang Dajuan
Published: October 2019

Berberine is a potent algicidal allelochemical of Microcystis aeruginosa. To optimize its application in the control of Microcystis blooms, the effects of berberine on the growth and photosynthetic activities of M. aeruginosa and a non-target green alga, Chlorella pyrenoidosa, were compared. The results showed that the algicidal activity of berberine on M. aeruginosa was light dependent. Berberine had no algicidal effects on C. pyrenoidosa with or without light exposure. Under light-dark conditions, berberine significantly decreased the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters in M. aeruginosa while no significant berberine-induced changes were observed under constant darkness. Significant reductions of photosystem II (PSII) and whole chain electron transport activities in M. aeruginosa exposed to berberine suggested that PSII was the important target site attacked by berberine. Contrary to M. aeruginosa, no berberine-induced inhibition in photosynthesis activities were observed in C. pyrenoidosa. The differences in photosynthetic apparatuses of these two algae might be responsible for their different sensitivities to berberine.
Advanced Methods of Managing the Efficiency of Professional Office Duties of Civil Servants
Authors: Simutova D. V.
Published: October 2019

One of the most important lines in state governance in Russia is an increase in its effectiveness and one of the utmost goals of state HR management is a rise in efficiency and effectiveness of professional service duties of civil servants. To attain these results is impossible without effective use of advanced methods and ways of influencing the staff of state bodies. The article provides the author's definition of advanced methods of managing the efficiency of professional office duties of civil servants. As potential methods of managing the efficiency of professional office duties of civil servants the author puts forward the following: 1) management by goals and results and the system of balanced indicators; 2) project management; 3) effective contract. As a result of the research these methods were defined as advanced methods of managing the efficiency of professional office duties of civil servants. At the same time serious drawbacks in their practical application were found. The importance of the research is shown by the need to modernize the found advanced methods. Elimination of these drawbacks could allow us not only to adapt these tools to the present day goals of state bodies, but also to raise the efficiency of state governance in general.
Therapeutic Potential of Cinnoline Core: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Tonk Rajiv K. , Bawa Sandhya , Kumar Deepak
Published: October 2019

Cinnoline or Benzo-pyridazine has its place in the family of fairly well-known benzfuseddiazine
heterocycles. Because of its natural occurrence and synthetic exploration, cinnoline compounds
validated its thought-provoking bioactivity through a number of research publications and patents during
last few decades. A creative consideration has been rewarded to the synthesis of cinnoline based
heterocyclic compounds, mostly due to their wide range of diverse pharmacological activities. The
present review covers the principle approaches to the synthesis of cinnoline nucleus and almost all biological
properties of 115 cinnoline derivatives reported during the last 65 years from natural and synthetic
origin with 140 references.
Pharmacokinetics-based Dose Management of 5-Fluorouracil Clinical Research in Advanced Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Authors: Deng Rong , Shi Lin , Zhu Wei , Wang Mei , Guan Xin , Yang DeLiang , Shen Bo
Published: October 2019

Objective:

The study aimed to explore the efficacy of pharmacokinetic-based 5-fluorouracil
dose management by plasma concentration test in advanced colorectal cancer treatment.

Methods:

153 samples of advanced colorectal cancer patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to a
control group and an experimental group. All patients received double-week chemotherapy with 5-
fluorouracil (four weeks were used as one period), and chemotherapy duration ranged from 2 to 6 periods.
In the first period, all patients were administered with the classic strategy of body surface area (BSA).

Results:

In the subsequent periods, the control group (77 samples) continued with BSA guided chemotherapy,
while the experimental group (76 samples) received pharmacokinetic AUC-based chemotherapy.
The efficacy and toxic side effects were assessed during chemotherapy, and survival was recorded
in a follow-up. In the AUC experimental group, the rate of diarrhea significantly decreased (37.50%
vs. 70.00%, P=0.010), and incidence of oral mucositis reduced (54.17% vs. 82.50%, P=0.014). Compared
with the control group, the clinical benefit rate of experimental group was much higher (90.79%
vs. 79.22%, P=0.046).

Conclusion:

There was no significant difference in other 5-fluorouracil related toxic side effect events
(nausea, vomiting, hand-foot syndrome) and progression-free survival between the two groups. Pharmacokinetic-
based dose management of 5-Fluorouracil reduces the toxicity of chemotherapy and improves
long-term efficacy of chemotherapy for advanced colorectal cancer patients.
Curcumin Prevents Brain Damage and Cognitive Dysfunction During Ischemic-reperfusion Through the Regulation of miR-7-5p
Authors: Xu Hui , Nie Beibei , Liu Lamei , Zhang Chunhui , Zhang Zhenxiang , Xu Mengya , Mei Yongxia
Published: October 2019

Objective:

This study was to investigate the potential protective effects of curcumin in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (CIR) and its regulation of miR-7.

Methods:

Rats were occluded by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 1.5 h and reperfused for 2 h to establish a local CIR model. After 24 hours of model establishment, MCAO rats were given curcumin for 3 days by intragastric administration. PC12 cells were cultured for 6 h in oxygen-glucose deprivation medium and then reoxygenated for 24 h to establish an oxygenglucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) model. The OGD/R model cells were treated with curcumin for 48 h.

Results:

Curcumin inhibited the decrease of miR-7-5p expression and an increase of RelA p65 expression induced by CIR and ODG/R. RelA p65 was a target of miR-7-5p. MiR-7-5p antagonists were able to counteract the effect of curcumin on the expression of RelA p65 in ischemic brain tissue of MCAO rats and OGD/R model cells. Curcumin improved OGD/R-induced inhibition of cell activity, necrosis and apoptosis. Curcumin significantly reduced the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and increased the activity of superoxide dismutases (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in OGD/R-induced cells. Curcumin may inhibit OGD/R-induced cell damage by regulating miR-7-5p. Curcumin improved cerebral infarction, nerve damage and cognitive dysfunction in rats with CIR, which may be related to the regulation of miR-7-5p/RelA p65 axis.

Conclusion:

Curcumin exerts cerebral protection by attenuating cell necrosis and apoptosis, inflammatory response and oxidative stress following CIR, which may be related to its regulation of the miR-7/RELA p65 axis.
Coumarin-Oxadiazole Derivatives: Synthesis and Pharmacological Properties
Authors: Abdul Razak Nurhayatun S. , Jamalis Joazaizulfazli , Chander Subhash , Wahab Roswanira Abdul , Bhagwat Deepak P. , Smith Terry K. , Sankaranarayanan Murugesan
Published: October 2019

Coumarin and oxadiazole moieties ubiquitously occur in a wide range of natural products
and are valued for their varied and beneficial pharmacological activities. Herein, this review focuses
on various documented techniques used by researchers to synthesize an assortment of biologically
active coumarin-oxadiazole scaffolds. Also, the common techniques discussed are used to establish
the wide-range of biological activities of the synthesized coumarin and oxadiozole derivatives,
including; antioxidant, anthelmintic, antimicrobial, anti-tuberculosis, analgesic, anti-inflammatory,
cytotoxicity and anticonvulsant. Additionally, the current, well-established drugs synthesized using
coumarin-oxadiazole scaffolds are typically dispensed in regular clinical practice are also highlighted
in this review paper.
Mycophenolate Mofetil-induced Oral Ulcerations in a Kidney Transplant Recipient
Authors: Gaied Hanène , Bacha Mohamed Mongi , Mesbahi Tasnim , Ounissi Mondher , Aoudia Raja , Jerbi Mouna , Jones Mariem , Ksantini Mariem , Rammeh Soumaya , Hedri Hafedh , Goucha Rim , Abdallah Taieb Ben
Published: October 2019

Introduction:

Mycophenolate Mofetil (MMF) is an immunosuppressive drug usually
used in kidney transplants to prevent rejection. It has various adverse effects such as leucopenia,
anemia, diarrhea but Mouth ulcers are rarely reported.

Methods:

We present a case report of MMF-induced mouth ulcers in an African patient.

Case Report:

A 41-year-old African-male patient has painful oral ulcers which developed 5 months
after kidney transplantation. The immunosuppressive maintenance regimen comprised Steroids,
Tacrolimus and MMF.

Results:

These ulcers were firstly related to a fungic or viral infection so the patient was prescribed
Fluconazole and Aciclovir without any improvement. Then, Tacrolimus blood level was checked
and it was in a therapeutic range. Finally, we decide to stop MMF and the ulcers healed quickly.

Discussion:

Oral ulcers are frequently seen complications in immunosuppressant patient but are
rarely described with MMF. These ulcers can become large and very painful and degrade patient's
life quality. So when infections causes are excluded, we have to keep in mind that these ulcers can
be a drug adverse effect.
Morin Inhibits Ovarian Cancer Growth through the Inhibition of NF-κB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xu Meimei , Zhang Yan
Published: October 2019

Background &Objective:

Ovarian cancer has the highest mortality in gynecological tumors without
effective therapeutic drugs as a result of drug-resistance for long-term utilization. Morin has been reported to
possess powerful anti-tumor effects in several cancers. The present study aims to investigate whether Morin
could influence ovarian cancer growth and underlying mechanisms.

Methods:

Morin was administered to cultured cells in vitro and formed tumors in vivo. MTT and colony formation
assays were performed to explore the effects of Morin on the proliferation and colony formation of
OVCAR3 and SKOV3 ovarian cancer cells. Western blot, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence as well as ELISA
were used to detect protein and mRNA expression of target factors. Tumor formation was performed to investigate
tumorigenesis ability of drug-treated cells.

Results:

The proliferation and colony size of OVCAR3 and SKOV3 were significantly decreased after Morin
administration. The expression of NF-κB and inflammatory cytokine IL6/8 induced by TNF-α can be inhibited
by Morin. Furthermore, Morin inhibited the volume of ovarian cancer tumors in nude mice.

Conclusion:

Morin effectively alleviates ovarian cancer growth, inhibits the inflammatory response, and reduces
tumor size via modulation of the NF-κB pathway.
3,4-Dihydropyrimidin-2(1H)-One Analogues: Microwave irradiated Synthesis with Antimicrobial and Antituberculosis Study
Authors: Patel Navin , Pathan Sabir , Soni Hetal I.
Published: October 2019

Background:

For rapid and sustainable synthesis, microwave irradiation method is serviceable. This present study deals with the preparation of oxadiazole and pyridine bearing 1,2,3,4- tetrahydro pyrimidine derivatives by microwave irradiation.

Objective:

The present study aims to carry out rapid synthesis of chloro-acetamides of oxadiazoles of Biginelli product and amino cyano derivative of pyridine by microwave-assisted heating. Our efforts are focused on the introduction of chemical diversity in the molecular framework in order to synthesize pharmacologically interesting compounds.

Methods::

Microwave irradiation was used for the synthesis of 2-((3-cyano-4-(3,4-dichloro phenyl)- 6-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl) pyridin-2-yl) amino)-N-(5-(substituted) -(6-methyl-2-oxo -1,2,3,4- tetrahydro pyrimidin-5-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)acetamide by using Biginelli reaction. New structural analogues were confirmed by spectral studies followed by their screening for in vitro antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus Pyogenus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacterial strains and for antifungal activity against Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus clavatus by micro-broth dilution method. In vitro antimycobacterial activity determined out against (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) H37Rv strain using Lowenstein-Jensen medium.

Results:

As compared to the conventional method, microwave irradiation method is advantageous for the synthesis of 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin derivatives. Potent antimicrobial activities and antitubercular activity were found for some of the compounds.

Conclusion:

Microwave irradiation method provided an effective way to discover a novel class of antimicrobial and antituberculosis agents. 1,2,3,4-tetrahydropyrimidin derivatives showed improved antimicrobial and good antituberculosis activity.
Potential Benefits and Drawbacks of Virtual Clinics in General Surgery: Pilot Cross-Sectional Questionnaire Study
Authors: Rutherford Emily , Noray Roghinio , Ó hEarráin Caolán , Quinlan Kevin , Hegarty Aisling , Ekpotu Lenin , Arize Chinedum , Fabamwo Fiyinfoluwa , Alrubaiaan Abdulaziz , Bhupalan Avinash , Alshehhi Abdulla , Power Colm , Hill Arnold David Konrad
Published: October 2019

Background

Escalating demand for specialist health care puts considerable demand on hospital services. Technology offers a means by which health care providers may increase the efficiency of health care delivery.

Objective

The aim of this study was to conduct a pilot study of the feasibility, benefits, and drawbacks of a virtual clinic (VC) in the general surgical service of a busy tertiary center.

Methods

Patient satisfaction with current care and attitudes to VC were surveyed prospectively in the general surgical outpatient department (OPD; n=223). A subset of patients who had undergone endoscopy and day surgery were recruited to follow-up in a VC and subsequently surveyed with regard to their satisfaction (20/243). Other outcomes measured included a comparison of consultation times in traditional and virtual outpatient settings and financial cost to both patients and the institution.

Results

Almost half of the patients reported barriers to prospective use of VCs. However, within the cohort who had been followed-up in the VC, satisfaction was higher than the traditional OPD (100% as compared with 187/223, 83.9%). Significant savings in both time (P=.003) and financial costs to patients and the institution were found.

Conclusions

For an appropriately selected group of patients, VCs offer a viable alternative to traditional OPD. This alternative can improve both patient satisfaction and efficiency of patient care.
Accuracy of a Chatbot (Ada) in the Diagnosis of Mental Disorders: Comparative Case Study With Lay and Expert Users
Authors: Jungmann Stefanie Maria , Klan Timo , Kuhn Sebastian , Jungmann Florian
Published: October 2019

Background

Health apps for the screening and diagnosis of mental disorders have emerged in recent years on various levels (eg, patients, practitioners, and public health system). However, the diagnostic quality of these apps has not been (sufficiently) tested so far.

Objective

The objective of this pilot study was to investigate the diagnostic quality of a health app for a broad spectrum of mental disorders and its dependency on expert knowledge.

Methods

Two psychotherapists, two psychology students, and two laypersons each read 20 case vignettes with a broad spectrum of mental disorders. They used a health app (Ada—Your Health Guide) to get a diagnosis by entering the symptoms. Interrater reliabilities were computed between the diagnoses of the case vignettes and the results of the app for each user group.

Results

Overall, there was a moderate diagnostic agreement (kappa=0.64) between the results of the app and the case vignettes for mental disorders in adulthood and a low diagnostic agreement (kappa=0.40) for mental disorders in childhood and adolescence. When psychotherapists applied the app, there was a good diagnostic agreement (kappa=0.78) regarding mental disorders in adulthood. The diagnostic agreement was moderate (kappa=0.55/0.60) for students and laypersons. For mental disorders in childhood and adolescence, a moderate diagnostic quality was found when psychotherapists (kappa=0.53) and students (kappa=0.41) used the app, whereas the quality was low for laypersons (kappa=0.29). On average, the app required 34 questions to be answered and 7 min to complete.

Conclusions

The health app investigated here can represent an efficient diagnostic screening or help function for mental disorders in adulthood and has the potential to support especially diagnosticians in their work in various ways. The results of this pilot study provide a first indication that the diagnostic accuracy is user dependent and improvements in the app are needed especially for mental disorders in childhood and adolescence.
Examining the Ethical Implications of Health Care Technology Described in US and Swedish PhD Dissertations: Protocol for a Scoping Review
Authors: Nygren Jens M , de Ruiter Hans-Peter
Published: October 2019

Background

The development of new biomedical technologies is accelerating at an unprecedented speed. These new technologies will undoubtedly bring solutions to long-standing problems and health conditions. However, they will likely also have unintended effects or ethical implications accompanying them. It may be presumed that the research behind new technologies has been evaluated from an ethical perspective; however, the evidence that this has been done is scant.

Objective

This study aims to understand whether and in what manner PhD dissertations focused on health technologies describe actual or possible ethical issues resulting from their research.

Methods

The purpose of scoping reviews is to map a topic in the literature comprehensively and systematically to identify gaps in the literature or identify key evidence. The search strategy for this protocol will include electronic databases (eg, ProQuest, PubMed, Diva, SwePub, and LIBRIS). Searches will be limited to PhD dissertations published in the United States and Sweden in the last 10 years. The study will be mapped in 5 stages: (1) identifying the research question, (2) identifying relevant studies, (3) study selection, (4) retrieving and charting the data, and (5) collating, summarizing, and reporting the results.

Results

The findings of this study will indicate if and how researchers, PhD students, and their supervisors are considering ethics in their studies, including both research ethics and the ethical implications of their work. The findings can guide researchers in determining gaps and shortcomings in current doctoral education and offer a foundation to adjusting doctoral research education.

Conclusions

In a society where technology and research are advancing at speeds unknown to us before, we need to find new and more efficient ways to consider ethical issues and address them in a timely manner. This study will offer an understanding of how ethics is currently being integrated into US and Swedish PhD dissertations and inform the future direction of ethics education at a doctoral level.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/14157
The Prevalence of Insecticide Treated Net/malaria :cross section study (Preprint)
Authors: Chalela Chanda
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND

ABSTRACT
Introduction a study on prevalence of ITN use was carried out in Buchi community Kitwe Zambia from August to October 2019

OBJECTIVE

Prevalence of ITN in BUchi

METHODS

Methodology: This was a cross sectional study design. A structured questionnaire was used to ascertain ownership and utilization and oral interviews, 200 households were targeted 844 individual covered across the 200 households. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 23.

RESULTS

ABSTRACT
Introduction a study on prevalence of ITN use was carried out in Buchi community Kitwe Zambia from August to October 2019
Methodology: This was a cross sectional study design. A structured questionnaire was used to ascertain ownership and utilization and oral interviews, 200 households were targeted 844 individual covered across the 200 households. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 23.
Findings: household ownership of at least an ITN was 52% and individual utilization at 37.6%, with 0.825 ITN/households and 0.195ITN /individual. Malaria prevalence of 52.4% /household and a 12.4% of the population. With 47.6% malaria patient coming from households with ITN and 60% of households with ITN have insufficient coverage.61% of malaria patient were female and 31 % male. however there was no significant relation between Gender and malaria prevalence in study area (p value was >0.05). Malaria cases distribution with age groups, 0-15yrs old represented 49.5%, 16-30 yrs., was at 27.6% and the over 30 yrs. case were at 22.9% .use of other preventive measures 23% used mosquito repellent ,others methods 1% with those not using any other methods 76%.

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusion
The study showed clearly that malaria still poses a problem .the prevalence rate of malaria was still high 12.4% of the population and 52.4% of households. With high prevalence of malaria of 49.5% for 0-15yrs.the difference between ownership 52% and Utilization 37.6% showed that even household with ITN, the ITN were not sufficient.60% of households with ITN, the ITN were not sufficient for all occupants
Effect Of Pre-Treatment And Inoculant During Composting Of Palm Oil Empty Fruit Bunches
Authors: Zahrim A.Y. , Yee I.K.T. , Thian E.S.C. , Heng S.Y. , Janaun J. , Chong K.P. , Haywood S.K. , Tan V. , Asis T. , Al-Mizi T.M.T.M.A.
Published: October 2019

In this work, untreated empty fruit bunch (EFB) or microwave-assisted NaOHpretreated EFB with palm oil mill effluent (POME) were composted under mesophilicconditions either in the presence or absence of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D203 for sixtydays. During pretreatment conditions, the EFB was mixed with 1% (w/w) sodiumhydroxide and then exposed to microwave irradiation. The composting process wasevaluated based on the evolution of pH, electrical conductivity, moisture content, organicmatter loss, zeta potential and phytotoxicity. The strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens D203 is not suitable for EFB-POME composting due to lower organic matter loss. The microwave-assisted NaOH pretreatment contributed to ~15% more organic matter loss than was found in the untreated sample while its germination index was >50%.
Process Optimization of Carbon Dioxide Adsorption using Nitrogen-Functionalized Graphene Oxide via Response Surface Methodology Approach
Authors: Baldovino Fritzie Hannah B. , Dugos Nathaniel P. , Roces Susan A. , Quitain Armando T. , Kida Tetsuya
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a response surface methodology approach in the optimizationof the carbon dioxide temperature-programmed adsorption process using a new materialreferred as nitrogen-functionalized graphene oxide. This material was synthesized byloading nitrogen groups to graphene oxide using aqueous ammonia in supercriticalcondition. Later on, it was utilized as a sorbent for carbon dioxide adsorption. This process was optimized by implementing a response surface methodology coupled with a Box- Behnken design for the effects of three factors: adsorption temperature, carbon dioxide flow rate, and the amount of adsorbent. In analyzing the response surface, a model equation was generated based on the experimental data by regression analysis. This model equation was then utilized to predict optimum values of response. Furthermore, response optimizer was also conducted in identifying factor combination settings that jointly optimize the best response.
A Thermodynamic Study of Methane Hydrates Formation In Glass Beads
Authors: Mutiara Tintin , Budhijanto Budhijanto , Bendiyasa I Made , Prasetyo Imam
Published: October 2019

Natural gas hydrates are non-stoichiometry compounds, in which the molecules of gas are trapped in crystalline cells consisting of water molecules retained by energy of hydrogen bonds. The experiments of Methane hydrate formation are performed at constant temperature in a reactor filled with various sizes of glass beads and water. Methane gas was fed into the reactor at various initial pressures. Equilibrium condition was reached when the system pressure did not change. The experimental results showed that the size of the glass beads gave very small effect on the equilibrium pressure of methane hydrate formation, so the effect could be neglected. In this study, the equation of Langmuir constant was Ci,CH4=(1/RT)exp[A+(B/T)] with the values of A and B for small cages were 6.8465 and 18.0342. The values of A and B for large cages were 7.7598 and 18.0361
Preparation and Characterization of Activated Carbon from the Sea Mango (Cerbera Odollam) with Impregnation in Phosphoric Acid (H3PO4)
Authors: Hidayah A. Nur , Fazara M.A. Umi , Fauziah Z. Nor , Aroua M.K.
Published: October 2019

The properties of the activated carbon from Sea Mango (Cerbera Odollam) prepared from chemical and physical activation was studied. The sample was impregnated with phosphoric acid (H3PO4) at the impregnation ratio of precursor to activant as 1:2 and followed by thermal activation at 500 °C with different flowing gas i.e. nitrogen (N2), carbon dioxide (CO2), steam and at the absent of any gases for duration of 2 hours. The sample experienced two different steps of preparation which were Method 1 and Method 2. In Method 1, the precursor will be thermally heated after the chemical activation process, and the samples were denoted as RIHM1-N, RIHM1-CO2, RIHM1-S and RIHM1-A which utilize either N2, CO2, steam and absent of any gases, respectively. Meanwhile in Method 2, the carbonization process with N2 flow at 200 °C was done prior to chemical and thermal activation. This type of treatment method was denoted as RCIHM2-N, RCIHM2-CO2 RCIHM2-S and RCIHM2-A, which use the same flowing gases as described previously. The surface area of the activated carbon was determined using standard method (ASTM) of iodine test. A higher iodine number reading was given by the sample prepared via Method 2 i.e. 1021.74 mg/g, 1069.98 mg/g 902.40 mg/g and 1040.58 mg/g for sample RCIHM2-N, RCIHM2-CO2, RCIHM2-S and RCIHM2-A, respectively. For sample prepared via Method 1, the iodine number measurement for sample RIHM1-N, RIHM1-CO2, RIHM1-S and RIHM1-A were 896.480 mg/g, 810.900 mg/g, 973.70 mg/g and 856.217mg/g, respectively.
Effects of Fluxing Agents on Filter Aids Prepared from Lam-Dong Diatomate
Authors: Phong Mai Thanh , Hai Tran Duy , Tuan Phan Dinh
Published: October 2019

Diatomite (or kieselguhr) is deposit of skeletal remains of single-cell water plants (diatom algae). Diatomite can be used as raw materials for production of several products, such as filter aids, fire-bricks, adsorbents, etc. Two major deposits of diatomite in Vietnam are in Phu-Yen and Lam-Dong province. This study aims to study preparation of filter aids from Lam-Dong diatomite. Especially, the study focused on investigating effects of fluxing agents on quality of filter aids. Physic-chemical properties of the filter aids were determined by using X-ray fluorescence spectrometer, scanning electron microscope and instrumentally measured color coordinates. Results of beer filtration were also presented in this paper. The obtained results proved that Lam-Dong diatomite can be used to manufacture standard filter aids for beer filtration.
Use of Electrochemical Peroxidation to Degrade Reactive Blue 19: Application of a 23 Full Factorial Design
Authors: Austero1 Sheila B. , De Luna Mark Daniel G.
Published: October 2019

A 5000 g/m3 CI Reactive Blue 19 dye solution was treated using electrochemical peroxidation (ECP) process. This method involves the utilization of Fenton’s reaction chemistry through the addition of hydrogen peroxide into the solution and the use of an iron anode as source of Fe(II) catalyst. The degradation of the dye was evaluated using a 23 full factorial design augmented with four centerpoints. The factors and levels of the experimental design were as follows: initial pH (2.2, 2.5, 2.8), initial H2O2 dosage (332 mol/m3, 377 mol/m3, 422 mol/m3), and current density (164 A/m2, 205 A/m2, 246 A/m2). Results of the study showed that initial pH-current density interaction significantly influenced the percent COD removal. Moreover, after 60 minutes of treatment, the percent absorbance reduction reached up to 99.98% and the percent COD removal reached up to 82.83%.
Numerical Simulation of Air Flow and Temperature Distribution in Yarn Drying Room
Authors: Pimsamarn Jindarat , Kitsubun Panit , Tongruk Rabin
Published: October 2019

This research studied the recovery of wasted heat from exhaust air releasing from the compressor to increase the drying efficiency. The yarn drying room model was developed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) so as to study the distribution of air flow and temperature numerically. The most suitable design of the drying room considering the decrease of drying time such as the locations of hot air inlet and outlet were investigated. At the exhaust air outlet position, the average exhaust air temperature is 56°C, while the average flow rate and relative humidity are 1.75 m/s and 16.2 percent, respectively. The hydraulic calculation revealed that the appropriate duct size was 0.412 x 0.412 m2 width and height. The hot air temperature after transferring through air duct was decreased from 56°C to 52°C. The simulation results showed that the appropriate inlet position is at the ceiling and split into 4 inlet positions which had 0.152 x 0.152 m2 width and height. The most appropriate outlet position was 3 m above the ground in order to achieve the highest distribution of moisture content with standard deviation of 1.9 x 10-4. The locations which had the high accumulation of moisture were at the center and both sides of the drying room due to the low air turbulence. From this configuration, the drying time was decreased from 2 days to 89 minutes. Furthermore, after the 2 air circulators were installed in the drying room, the distribution of moisture content, represented in term of standard deviation, was about 1.5 x 10-4. As a consequence, the drying time could be reduced to 78 minutes, but the monthly electricity cost of air circulators was around 590 baht.
Enhanced Chlorella vulgaris Buitenzorg growth by Photon Flux Density Alteration in Serial Bubble Column Photobioreactors
Authors: Wijanarko Anondho , Sendjaya Dianursanti Antonius Yudi , Gozan Misri , Soemantojo Roekmijati Widaningroem , Witarto Arief Budi , Ohtaguchi Kazuhiro Asami Kazuhisa
Published: October 2019

Micro algae are photolitotrophs that perform oxygenic photosynthesis and capable of accumulating a large amount of CO2, using an inducible CO2 concentrating mechanism (CCM). These characteristics make the micro algae potentially useful for removal and utilization of CO2 emitted from industrial plant. Generally, the usage of photosynthetic microorganism in CO2 fixation and biomass production for the economically viable commodities have been increased and significantly improved as a solution for this problem. Using these facts and previous research results using Anabaena cylindrica IAM M1 and Spirulina platensis IAM M 135, enhancement of CO2 fixation and biomass production by Chlorella vulgaris Buitenzorg with photon flux density alteration along with an increasing of culture biomass during the cellular growth period, was implemented in this research. The photon flux density used in this alteration was the maximum light for Chlorella’s maximum growth rate ( I mmax,opt ). The cultivation of Chlorella vulgaris Buitenzorg in the Benneck basal medium operating conditions: T, 29oC; P, 1.0 atm; UG, 2.4m/h; CO2, 10%; using Philip Halogen Lamp 20W/12V/50Hz as the light source and three bubble column photobioreactors arranged in series order with each having a volume of 0.200dm3. Results had shown that the photon flux density alteration as a whole could increase around 60% the biomass production of Chlorella vulgaris and around 7% the CO2 fixation ability, compared to constant photon flux density outcomes. This experiment also showed that the noncompetitive inhibition of [HCO3-] as carbon source substrate is affected significantly during the cultivation in both of alteration and continuous photon flux density.
Preparation and Activity of Precipitated Ni-MgO/Al2O3 Catalysts for the Partial Oxidation of Methane
Authors: Razon Luis F. , Salazar Carlito M. , Niiyama Hiroo , Doan Long The Nam
Published: October 2019

The effect of catalyst preparation methods, NiO/MgO molar ratio and reaction temperature on the performance of Ni-MgO catalysts supported on Al2O3 in the partial oxidation of methane to syngas were investigated in a fixed-bed flow reactor. Three catalyst preparation methods (all slight variants of the precipitation method) produced comparable results in CH4 conversion, CO and H2 selectivities. Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) analysis and the color of the catalysts after reaction showed that catalysts produced by simultaneous dissolution of the nickel and magnesium salts may have better carbon deposition resistance. NiO/MgO molar ratio significantly affected the performance of the catalyst. When the NiO/MgO ratio decreased, activity decreased. At a NiO/MgO molar ratio of 1/2 and a reduction temperature of 850°C, CH4 conversion and CO selectivity increased when reaction temperature increased while H2 selectivity remained almost the same. The catalyst gave excellent activity and remained stable after 5h time-on-stream.
Study of the Peptizability of Boehmite and Its Application for the Formation of γ-Al2O3	in Spherical Shape
Authors: Lam Tran Dai , Huyen Pham Thanh , Long Nguyen Han
Published: October 2019

This paper shows the results of the peptizability of boehmite and its application for the formation of γ-Al2O3 in spherical shape. The obtained γ-Al2O3 in spherical shape have high mechanical strength and high surface area. The water vapor adsorption ability of sphere of γ-Al2O3 has also been determined. The γ-Al2O3 in spherical shape can adsorb moisture up to 65% of their weight.
Effect of MgCI2 and CaCI2 on the Bubble Point of Mixed- Solvents (Toluene-Isopropyl Alcohol-H20 System)
Authors: Dugos Nathaniel P. , Cabigon Noel P. , Brondial Yolanda P.
Published: October 2019

This study investigated the effect of CaCl2 and MgCI2,both alkaline earth metal salts on the boiling points of a mixed-solvent system composed of toluene, isopropyl alcohol and water. The effect of the concentration of the salt on the boiling point of this ternary system was also examined. Results showed that mixed- solvents added with CaCl2 boil at higher temperatures than those with MgCl2even though the latter salt is higher in molal concentration. This proves that MgCI2, which has a smaller ionic radius than CaCl2 is more effective in reducing the molecular affinity to polar and associating solvents (water and isopropyl alcohol) than to the non-polar solvent (toluene). The mixed- solvent system added with MgCl2 registered higher boiling point deviation than those with CaCI2, though both showed positive deviations. Based on the results, either of the two salts can be an effective mass separating agent. However it is shown that MgCl2is better than CaCl2 because the solutions with MgCI2 generally exhibited lower boiling points. Though the difference in temperature deviations of the two salts is statistically not significant, a difference in temperature of one degree is economically significant considering the cost of energy.
Dynamic Cycling State of Nonadiabatic Catalytic Combustion of Propylene
Authors: Purwono Suryo
Published: October 2019

An experimental study of nonadiabatic fixed-bed reactor for controlling propylene gas was made under flow reversal operation. Temperature measurements were made within the catalyst and packing beds. The influence of the operating parameters on the shape of temperature profiles, conversion, and heat removal were studied. The experiments showed that the maximum measured reactor temperature and heat removal were rather insensitive to changes in cycle duration and sensitive to feed flow rate and reactant concentration. The simulation results for the variation of concentration, flow rate, and cycle time showed the experimentally observed behavior Further simulations showed that runaway can occur when concentration was high.
Supercritical Water Oxidation for Toxic Organic Wastewater Disposal
Authors: Veriansyah Bambang , Prabowo Benedictus , Kim Jae-Duck
Published: October 2019

The destruction of toxic organic wastewaters from munitions demilitarization and complex industrial chemicals clearly becomes an overwhelming problem if left to conventional treatment processes. Two options, incineration and supercritical water oxidation (SCWO), exist for the complete destruction of toxic organic wastewaters. Incinerator, on the one hand, has associated problems such as very high cost and public resentment; SCWO, on the other hand, has proven to be a very promising method for the treatment of various types of wastewaters with its extremely efficient organic waste destruction of 99.99% with none of the emissions associated with incineration. In this review, the concepts of SCWO, the results of and present perspectives on its applications, as well as the industrial status of SCWO are critically examined and discussed.
Kinetics of Polychlorinated Biphenyl Biodegradation Using Biofilm Grown on Biphenyl
Authors: Borja Josephine , Auresenia Joseph , Gallardo Susan M.
Published: October 2019

The kinetics of polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) degradation in a completely mixed three-phase fluidized-bed biofilm reactor was studied using an initial PCB concentration of 40 ppm. The mixed-culture biofilm grown on cement balls was gradually acclimatized to PCBs prior to the experimental runs. The time course of PCB concentration was monitored and the data obtained were fitted to first, second, and third order rate equations. Analysis of data was based on the assumptions that the PCB concentration was rate limiting and the mixed liquor volatile solids (MLVS) represents the active biomass. Linear regression analysis conducted for the 11 experimental runs show that PCB degradation does not follow first order kinetics. The best fit was obtained for second order in the first six runs when the overall PCB degradation was 80-85% (8-6 ppm final concentration). When the overall degradation increased to 89-92% (4-3 ppm final concentration) from run 7 onwards, the third order gave the best fit. The improved performance of the biofilm to degrade PCBs resulted in a kinetic rate pattern, which shifted from second to third order as the concentration of the PCBs dropped. The rate of PCB degradation was influenced by the presence of mixed culture whose combined attack on and long contact with PCBs resulted in PCB degradation that progressed from one batch to the next.
Application 0f Draft Tube in the Reduction of Backmixing Rate in Oscillatory Flow in a Baffled Column
Authors: Takriff Mohd Sobri , Masyitah Zuhrina
Published: October 2019

Oscillatory flow in a baffled tube/column is an efficient way to enhance mixing in a straight smooth column. However, liquid oscillation moving back and forth across the baffle causes backmixing which is a disadvantage when plug flow is desired. This paper presents results from a study conducted to reduce the backmixing rate in oscillatory flow in a baffled column with the use of a draft tube. Results of this study showed that backmixing increases with oscillation velocity and decreases with liquid flow rate. The use of a draft tube reduces backmixing. The backmixing reduction is proportional to the ratio of L/Do However, the draft tube can not be extended too long because it disrupts the flow behavior in the column and creates dead zones near the baffle region. The draft tube length is maximized by extending it to both sides of the baffle, provided that the L/De on each side of the baffle is at 0.67 or less.
CO Oxidation over Metal Oxide CatalystSupported by Indonesian Natural Zeolite
Authors: Purwono Suryo
Published: October 2019

The objectives of this study are to attempt to develop catalysts and to find the operating conditions under which combustible waste gases concentrations in the exhaust gases can be eventually reduced to satisfy air pollution standards. The results shows that using impregnation method, nickel and vanadium metals, as active components of the catalyst, can be dispersed on the natural zeolite as catalyst support. The reaction rate measurements of catalytic oxidation of CO was done in the temperature range between 300 and 550°C using a differential micro-reactor. The catalysts used for this experiment were vanadium pentoxide and nickel oxide on activated natural zeolite. To avoid fluidization, the reactant gases were flowed downward. The results show that the reaction rate depends strongly on the bed temperature and feed concentration and is not controlled by bulk phase mass transfer and pore diffusion.
Oscillatory Flow Mixer for Pulp Bleaching
Authors: Taslim Taslim , Takriff Mohd Sabri
Published: October 2019

This paper reports the results of an investigation on the use of oscillatory baffled column as a mixer for pulp bleaching. Unbleached hardwood kraft pulp was bleached using hydrogen peroxide. Variables studied were oscillation frequency, oscillation amplitude, and pulp consistency. The mixing process was achieved by oscillating pulp suspension in a periodically baffled column at a certain frequency and amplitude. The mixing quality of pulp bleaching was quantified using mixing index. The results showed that mixing quality improved with oscillation frequency and amplitude, but decreased with pulp consistency. This typical device is very promising as a mixer for pulp bleaching.