Fermentative production of glycine betaine and trehalose from acid whey using Actinopolyspora halophila (MTCC 263)

Acid whey has become a major concern especially in dairy industry manufacturing Greek yoghurt. Proper disposal of acid whey is essential as it not only increases the BOD of water but also increases the acidity when disposed of in landfill, rendering soil barren and unsuitable for cultivation. Effluent (acid-whey) treatment increases the cost of production. The vast quantities of acid whey that are produced by the dairy industry make the treatment and safe disposal of effluent very difficult. Hence an economical way to handle this problem is very important. Biogenic glycine betaine and trehalose have many applications in food and confectionery industry, medicine, bioprocess industry, agriculture, genetic engineering, and animal feeds (etc.), hence their production is of industrial importance. Here we used the extreme, obligate halophile Actinopolyspora halophila (MTCC 263) for fermentative production of glycine betaine and trehalose from acid whey. Maximum yields were obtained by implementation of a sequential media optimization process, identification and addition of rate-limiting enzyme cofactors via a bioinformatics approach, and manipulation of nitrogen substrate supply. The implications of using glycine as a precursor were also investigated. The core factors that affected production were identified and then optimized using orthogonal array design followed by response surface methodology. The maximum production achieved after complete optimization was 9.07 ± 0.25 g/L and 2.49 ± 0.14 g/L for glycine betaine and trehalose, respectively.

Case-based reasoning for self-optimizing behavior

In this paper we present a Self-Optimizing module, inspired on Autonomic Computing, acquiring a scheduling system with the ability to automatically select a Meta-heuristic to use in the optimization process, so as its parameterization. Case-based Reasoning was used so the system may be able of learning from the acquired experience, in the resolution of similar problems. From the obtained results we conclude about the benefit of its use.

Meta-heuristics tunning using CBR for dynamic scheduling

This paper addresses the problem of Biological Inspired Optimization Techniques (BIT) parameterization, considering the importance of this issue in the design of BIT especially when considering real world situations, subject to external perturbations. A learning module with the objective to permit a Multi-Agent Scheduling System to automatically select a Meta-heuristic and its parameterization to use in the optimization process is proposed. For the learning process, Casebased Reasoning was used, allowing the system to learn from experience, in the resolution of similar problems. Analyzing the obtained results we conclude about the advantages of its use.

Localização ótima de apoios em estruturas do tipo viga utilizando o método dos algoritmos genéticos

Dissertação de Mestrado para obtenção do grau de Mestre em Engenharia Mecânica Ramo de Manutenção e Produção

An integrated recycling approach for GFRP pultrusion wastes: recycling and reuse assessment into new composite materials using Fuzzy Boolean Nets

In this study, efforts were made in order to put forward an integrated recycling approach for the thermoset based glass fibre reinforced polymer (GPRP) rejects derived from the pultrusion manufacturing industry. Both the recycling process and the development of a new cost-effective end-use application for the recyclates were considered. For this purpose, i) among the several available recycling techniques for thermoset based composite materials, the most suitable one for the envisaged application was selected (mechanical recycling); and ii) an experimental work was carried out in order to assess the added-value of the obtained recyclates as aggregates and reinforcement replacements into concrete-polymer composite materials. Potential recycling solution was assessed by mechanical behaviour of resultant GFRP waste modified concrete-polymer composites with regard to unmodified materials. In the mix design process of the new GFRP waste based composite material, the recyclate content and size grade, and the effect of the incorporation of an adhesion promoter were considered as material factors and systematically tested between reasonable ranges. The optimization process of the modified formulations was supported by the Fuzzy Boolean Nets methodology, which allowed finding the best balance between material parameters that maximizes both flexural and compressive strengths of final composite. Comparing to related end-use applications of GFRP wastes in cementitious based concrete materials, the proposed solution overcome some of the problems found, namely the possible incompatibilities arisen from alkalis-silica reaction and the decrease in the mechanical properties due to high water-cement ratio required to achieve the desirable workability. Obtained results were very promising towards a global cost-effective waste management solution for GFRP industrial wastes and end-of-life products that will lead to a more sustainable composite materials industry.

Desenvolvimento de ferramentas BIM no âmbito do cálculo estrutural em situação de incêndio

Este trabalho insere-se no âmbito de um estágio curricular realizado no gabinete de projetos SE2P, durante o qual foram desenvolvidas ferramentas de cálculo estrutural em situação de incêndio, integradas numa metodologia de trabalho que segue os princípios inerentes à tecnologia BIM (Building Information Modeling). Em particular foi implementado um procedimento de análise ao fogo segundo os modelos simplificados prescritos pelos Eurocódigos. Estes modelos garantem a segurança estrutural, permitindo, de forma rápida e eficiente, a determinação das necessidades de proteção passiva para diferentes cenários, tendo em vista a obtenção da solução mais económica. Esta dissertação, para além da apresentação do trabalho desenvolvido em regime de estágio curricular, objetivou dotar o leitor de um documento que introduza os principais conceitos relativos ao cálculo estrutural em situação de incêndio, indicando as várias opções de análise e respetivas vantagens e desvantagens, ajudando a definir a sua adequabilidade ao projeto em estudo. Neste contexto é efetuada uma introdução geral ao fenómeno do fogo e às medidas mais correntes de proteção, indicando-se os documentos normativos aplicáveis tanto ao cálculo estrutural como aos materiais de proteção. É também abordada a interação entre as várias normas que devem ser consultadas quando é efetuada uma análise ao fogo, e quais se aplicam a cada fase da análise. Efetua-se uma clara distinção entre a análise do comportamento térmico e mecânico, indicando-se as principais propriedades dos materiais em função do tipo de análise e a forma como são afetadas pela temperatura. No campo da análise do comportamento térmico faz-se essencialmente referência aos modelos de cálculo simplificados do desenvolvimento da temperatura em elementos metálicos e vigas mistas, com e sem proteção passiva. No que concerne ao campo da análise do comportamento mecânico são descritos os modelos de cálculo simplificados para a verificação da segurança estrutural atendendo às ações e combinações em situação de incêndio e à perda de resistência a temperaturas elevadas. Relativamente ao trabalho desenvolvido na SE2P, relativo ao desenvolvimento de ferramentas de cálculo e a sua implementação na análise ao fogo, realiza-se uma descrição detalhada de todo o processo, e da forma como se integra no conceito BIM, utilizando informações provenientes da modelação das estruturas e introduzindo novos dados ao modelo. Realizou-se também a aplicação de todo o procedimento de análise e das ferramentas desenvolvidas, a um caso de estudo baseado num edifício de habitação. Este caso de estudo serviu também para criar cenários de otimização utilizando-se referências de preços de mercado para o aço, sua transformação em fábrica e sistemas de proteção passiva, demonstrando-se a dificuldade em encontrar caminhos rápidos e diretos de decisão no processo de otimização.

Redes Neuronais Artificiais na Otimização do Processo de Digestão Anaeróbia - Aplicação a uma ETAR da AdCL

Numa sociedade com elevado consumo energético, a dependência de combustíveis fósseis em evidente diminuição de disponibilidades é um tema cada vez mais preocupante, assim como a poluição atmosférica resultante da sua utilização. Existe, portanto, uma necessidade crescente de recorrer a energias renováveis e promover a otimização e utilização de recursos. A digestão anaeróbia (DA) de lamas é um processo de estabilização de lamas utilizado nas Estações de Tratamento de Águas Residuais (ETAR) e tem, como produtos finais, a lama digerida e o biogás. Maioritariamente constituído por gás metano, o biogás pode ser utilizado como fonte de energia, reduzindo, deste modo, a dependência energética da ETAR e a emissão de gases com efeito de estufa para a atmosfera. A otimização do processo de DA das lamas é essencial para o aumento da produção de biogás. No presente relatório de estágio, as Redes Neuronais Artificiais (RNA) foram aplicadas ao processo de DA de lamas de ETAR. As RNA são modelos simplificados inspirados no funcionamento das células neuronais humanas e que adquirem conhecimento através da experiência. Quando a RNA é criada e treinada, produz valores de output aproximadamente corretos para os inputs fornecidos. Uma vez que as DA são um processo bastante complexo, a sua otimização apresenta diversas dificuldades. Foi esse o motivo para recorrer a RNA na otimização da produção de biogás nos digestores das ETAR de Espinho e de Ílhavo da AdCL, utilizando o software NeuralToolsTM da PalisadeTM, contribuindo, desta forma, para a compreensão do processo e do impacto de algumas variáveis na produção de biogás.

Génération automatique de configurations et de scénarios d'utilisation d'outils de visualisation à partir de spécifications de tâches d'analyse de logiciels

Nous proposons une approche qui génère des scénarios de visualisation à partir des descriptions de tâches d'analyse de code. La dérivation de scénario est considérée comme un processus d'optimisation. Dans ce contexte, nous évaluons différentes possibilités d'utilisation d'un outil de visualisation donnée pour effectuer la tâche d'analyse, et sélectionnons le scénario qui nécessite le moins d'effort d'analyste. Notre approche a été appliquée avec succès à diverses tâches d'analyse telles que la détection des défauts de conception.

Assessment of PEG on Polymeric Particles Surface, a Key Step in Drug Carrier Translation

Injectable drug nanocarriers have greatly benefited in their clinical development from the addition of a superficial hydrophilic corona to improve their cargo pharmacokinetics. The most studied and used polymer for this purpose is poly(ethylene glycol), PEG. However, in spite of its wide use for over two decades now, there is no general consensus on the optimum PEG chain coverage-density and size required to escape from the mononuclear phagocyte system and to extend the circulation time. Moreover, cellular uptake and active targeting may have conflicting requirements in terms of surface properties of the nanocarriers which complicates even more the optimization process. These persistent issues can be largely attributed to the lack of straightforward characterization techniques to assess the coverage-density, the conformation or the thickness of a PEG layer grafted or adsorbed on a particulate drug carrier and is certainly one of the main reasons why so few clinical applications involving PEG coated particle-based drug delivery systems are under clinical trial so far. The objective of this review is to provide the reader with a brief description of the most relevant techniques used to assess qualitatively or quantitatively PEG chain coverage-density, conformation and layer thickness on polymeric nanoparticles. Emphasis has been made on polymeric particle (solid core) either made of copolymers containing PEG chains or modified after particle formation. Advantages and limitations of each technique are presented as well as methods to calculate PEG coverage-density and to investigate PEG chains conformation on the NP surface.

Development of hybrid UV VCSEL with organic active material and dielectric DBR mirrors for medical, sensoric and data storage applications

Lasers play an important role for medical, sensoric and data storage devices. This thesis is focused on design, technology development, fabrication and characterization of hybrid ultraviolet Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (UV VCSEL) with organic laser-active material and inorganic distributed Bragg reflectors (DBR). Multilayer structures with different layer thicknesses, refractive indices and absorption coefficients of the inorganic materials were studied using theoretical model calculations. During the simulations the structure parameters such as materials and thicknesses have been varied. This procedure was repeated several times during the design optimization process including also the feedback from technology and characterization. Two types of VCSEL devices were investigated. The first is an index coupled structure consisting of bottom and top DBR dielectric mirrors. In the space in between them is the cavity, which includes active region and defines the spectral gain profile. In this configuration the maximum electrical field is concentrated in the cavity and can destroy the chemical structure of the active material. The second type of laser is a so called complex coupled VCSEL. In this structure the active material is placed not only in the cavity but also in parts of the DBR structure. The simulations show that such a distribution of the active material reduces the required pumping power for reaching lasing threshold. High efficiency is achieved by substituting the dielectric material with high refractive index for the periods closer to the cavity. The inorganic materials for the DBR mirrors have been deposited by Plasma- Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) and Dual Ion Beam Sputtering (DIBS) machines. Extended optimizations of the technological processes have been performed. All the processes are carried out in a clean room Class 1 and Class 10000. The optical properties and the thicknesses of the layers are measured in-situ by spectroscopic ellipsometry and spectroscopic reflectometry. The surface roughness is analyzed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and images of the devices are taken with scanning electron microscope (SEM). The silicon dioxide (SiO2) and silicon nitride (Si3N4) layers deposited by the PECVD machine show defects of the material structure and have higher absorption in the ultra violet range compared to ion beam deposition (IBD). This results in low reflectivity of the DBR mirrors and also reduces the optical properties of the VCSEL devices. However PECVD has the advantage that the stress in the layers can be tuned and compensated, in contrast to IBD at the moment. A sputtering machine Ionsys 1000 produced by Roth&Rau company, is used for the deposition of silicon dioxide (SiO2), silicon nitride (Si3N4), aluminum oxide (Al2O3) and zirconium dioxide (ZrO2). The chamber is equipped with main (sputter) and assisted ion sources. The dielectric materials were optimized by introducing additional oxygen and nitrogen into the chamber. DBR mirrors with different material combinations were deposited. The measured optical properties of the fabricated multilayer structures show an excellent agreement with the results of theoretical model calculations. The layers deposited by puttering show high compressive stress. As an active region a novel organic material with spiro-linked molecules is used. Two different materials have been evaporated by utilizing a dye evaporation machine in the clean room of the department Makromolekulare Chemie und Molekulare Materialien (mmCmm). The Spiro-Octopus-1 organic material has a maximum emission at the wavelength λemission = 395 nm and the Spiro-Pphenal has a maximum emission at the wavelength λemission = 418 nm. Both of them have high refractive index and can be combined with low refractive index materials like silicon dioxide (SiO2). The sputtering method shows excellent optical quality of the deposited materials and high reflection of the multilayer structures. The bottom DBR mirrors for all VCSEL devices were deposited by the DIBS machine, whereas the top DBR mirror deposited either by PECVD or by combination of PECVD and DIBS. The fabricated VCSEL structures were optically pumped by nitrogen laser at wavelength λpumping = 337 nm. The emission was measured by spectrometer. A radiation of the VCSEL structure at wavelength 392 nm and 420 nm is observed.

Human resource allocation management in multiple projects using sociometric techniques

This article describes a new application of key psychological concepts in the area of Sociometry for the selection of workers within organizations in which projects are developed. The project manager can use a new procedure to determine which individuals should be chosen from a given pool of resources and how to combine them into one or several simultaneous groups/projects in order to assure the highest possible overall work efficiency from the standpoint of social interaction. The optimization process was carried out by means of matrix calculations performed using a computer or even manually, and based on a number of new ratios generated ad-hoc and composed on the basis of indices frequently used in Sociometry.

Brazilian sugar cane bagasse ashes from the cogeneration industry as active pozzolans for cement manufacture

For proper management of wastes and their possible recycling as raw materials, complete characterization of the materials is necessary to evaluate the main scientific aspects and potential applications. The current paper presents a detailed scientific study of different Brazilian sugar cane bagasse ashes from the cogeneration industry as alternative cementing materials (active addition) for cement manufacture. The results show that the ashes from the industrial process (filter and bottom ones) present different chemical and mineralogical compositions and pozzolanic properties as well. As a consequence of its nature, the kinetic rate constant (K) states that the pozzolanic activity is null for the bottom ash and very low for the filter ash with respect to a sugar cane bagasse ash obtained in the laboratory under controlled burning conditions (reference). The scarce pozzolanic activity showed by ashes could be related to a possible contamination of bagasse wastes (with soils) before their use as alternative combustibles. For this reason, an optimization process for these wastes is advisable, if the ashes are to be used as pozzolans. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An introduction to compressive sensing and its potential applications in structural engineering

The Shannon/Nyquist sampling theorem specifies that to avoid losing information when capturing a signal, one must sample at least two times faster than the signal bandwidth. In order to capture and represent compressible signals at a rate significantly below the Nyquist rate, a new method, called compressive sensing (CS), is therefore proposed. CS theory asserts that one can recover certain signals from far fewer samples or measurements than traditional methods use. It employs non-adaptive linear projections that preserve the structure of the sparse signal; the signal is then reconstructed from these projections using an optimization process. It is believed that CS has far reaching implications, while most publications concentrate on signal processing fields (especially for images). In this paper, we provide a concise introduction of CS and then discuss some of its potential applications in structural engineering. The recorded vibration time history of a steel beam and the wave propagation result on a steel rebar are studied in detail. CS is adopted to reconstruct the time histories by using only parts of the signals. The results under different conditions are compared, which confirm that CS will be a promising tool for structural engineering.

Microbial lipases : at the interface of aqueous and non-aqueous media: a review

In recent times, biotechnological applications of microbial lipases in synthesis of many organic molecules have rapidly increased in non-aqueous media. Microbial lipases are the working horses' in biocatalysis and have been extensively studied when their exceptionally high stability in non-aqueous media has been discovered. Stability of lipases in organic solvents makes them commercially feasibile in the enzymatic esterification reactions. Their stability is affected by temperature, reaction medium, water concentration and by the biocatalyst's preparation. An optimization process for ester synthesis from pilot scale to industrial scale in the reaction medium is discussed. The water released during the esterification process can be controlled over a wide range and has a profound effect on the activity of the lipases. Approaches to lipase catalysis like protein engineering, directed evolution and metagenome approach were studied. This review reports the recent development in the field of non-aqueous microbial lipase catalysis and factors controlling the esterification/transesterification processes in organic media.

Damage identification scheme based on compressive sensing

Civil infrastructures are critical to every nation, due to their substantial investment, long service period, and enormous negative impacts after failure. However, they inevitably deteriorate during their service lives. Therefore, methods capable of assessing conditions and identifying damage in a structure timely and accurately have drawn increasing attention. Recently, compressive sensing (CS), a significant breakthrough in signal processing, has been proposed to capture and represent compressible signals at a rate significantly below the traditional Nyquist rate. Due to its sound theoretical background and notable influence, this methodology has been successfully applied in many research areas. In order to explore its application in structural damage identification, a new CS-based damage identification scheme is proposed in this paper, by regarding damage identification problems as pattern classification problems. The time domain structural responses are transferred to the frequency domain as sparse representation, and then the numerical simulated data under various damage scenarios will be used to train a feature matrix as input information. This matrix can be used for damage identification through an optimization process. This will be one of the first few applications of this advanced technique to structural engineering areas. In order to demonstrate its effectiveness, numerical simulation results on a complex pipe soil interaction model are used to train the parameters and then to identify the simulated pipe degradation damage and free-spanning damage. To further demonstrate the method, vibration tests of a steel pipe laid on the ground are carried out. The measured acceleration time histories are used for damage identification. Both numerical and experimental verification results confirm that the proposed damage identification scheme will be a promising tool for structural health monitoring.