The potential of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) for rapidly and accurately determining the extractives and polyphenol contents in Pinus caribaea bark extracts was assessed. Pinus caribaea bark samples were obtained from 110 trees in plantation stands at different locations of Ghana and were then scanned by NIRS. Their extractives and polyphenol contents reference values were obtained by TAPPI T204 om-88 and Folin-Ciocalteu methods respectively. These reference values were regressed against different spectral transformations using partial least square (PLS) regression. First derivative transformation equation of the raw spectral data, resulted in a coefficient of determination r2 in the external validation of 0.91 and 0.97 respectively for extractives content and polyphenol content. The calibration samples covered a wide range of extractives content from 34 – 45% and polyphenolic content from 16 – 23.5%. The standard deviation to root mean square error of cross validation ratio (SD/RMSECV), root mean square error of calibration to standard deviation ratio (RMSEC/SD), RMSECV/RMSEC and r2 for both extractives and polyphenol models were indicative of good prediction equations. The predicted values were thus highly correlated with time-consuming wet chemical measured values of extractives content and polyphenol content. The use of NIRS for the determination of the extractives and polyphenol contents in Pinus caribaea bark thus provides an advantage of time saving and cost of analysis.
This document discusses the application of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) in the feed industry. NIRS is a rapid, nondestructive technique used to determine the protein, moisture, starch, lipid, and ash content of feed ingredients. It has been accepted as an official method for analyzing crude protein, acid detergent fiber, and moisture in feeds. NIRS can also be used to detect heat damaged proteins, fungal contamination, and adulteration in feeds. Calibrations are developed using statistical methods to relate NIR spectra to wet chemistry values. NIRS offers advantages such as rapid analysis, little to no sample preparation, simultaneous analysis of multiple components, and environmental friendliness.
Evaluation of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy as a tool for determination of...SLOPE Project
This document summarizes a task to evaluate near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for determining log and biomass quality in mountain forests. Several organizations will work together on the task, led by CNR. CNR will coordinate, evaluate NIR spectroscopy along the harvesting chain, and develop a "NIR quality index." Boku will support CNR with lab measurements and calibration transfer. Other partners will help collect NIR spectra in the field. The objectives are to evaluate NIR spectroscopy for characterizing resources along the harvesting chain and provide guidelines for collection and analysis of NIR spectra. Activities will include feasibility studies, developing chemometric models to predict quality indicators from spectra, and transferring calibrations between lab and portable instruments. Del
Near infrared spectroscopy-Food analysisFoodtech mbg
Near-infrared spectroscopy uses the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum to analyze the chemical composition of food and other solid materials. Measurements in the near-infrared region from 700-2500 nm are used for quantitative analysis of foods. A major advantage is its ability to directly measure the composition of solid foods using diffuse reflection techniques without needing to prepare samples. Near-infrared spectroscopy is used extensively in the food industry to rapidly and non-destructively measure attributes like moisture, fat, protein and sugar content.
This document discusses the use of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for chemical analysis of feeds and foods. NIRS allows rapid, non-destructive testing of multiple components at once. It is faster and cheaper than traditional wet chemistry methods. NIRS works by measuring how organic compounds absorb near-infrared light. Absorption data is used to build calibration models that can then predict nutrient content of new samples. NIRS is advantageous as it provides real-time, multi-component analysis without chemicals or waste.
A polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) acrylic sample cell using flow injection is developed in this research for the determination of nitrite in an aqueous media. The research focuses on exhibiting direct absorbance spectrophotometry of nitrite using concentration of samples ranging from 0.1078 to 1.725 ppm. Nitrite determination is done colorimetrically using the Greiss reagent method. This method is based on the reaction of nitrite with sulphanilamide acid and N-1-napthylamine (NED) utilizing diazo coupling, and a syringe is used to administer the nitrite solution. The sample cell being used possesses a diameter of 1
mm with an overall size of 7.35×22 mm2. To gauge the direct absorbance, a wavelength range from 400 to 650 nm has been selected for the testing, and the maximum absorbance is found to be at 545 nm. The validity of the proposed cell is explained in this letter.
This document discusses the use of infrared spectroscopy, specifically mid-infrared (MIR) and near-infrared (NIR), as an analytical tool in the food industry. It explains that MIR and NIR spectroscopy can be used to quantify major food constituents like water, proteins, lipids, and sugars quickly and without sample preparation. The document provides examples of applications for MIR and NIR spectroscopy in analyzing cereals, grains, flour, bread, dairy products, and more. Infrared spectroscopy is presented as a powerful technique that provides both qualitative and quantitative food analysis faster and with less chemicals than traditional methods.
Low optical limiting and nonlinear optical properties of vanadyl phthalocyani...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes research on the nonlinear optical and optical limiting properties of vanadyl phthalocyanine (VOPc) using a continuous wave laser. VOPc was prepared and characterized. Its third-order nonlinear optical properties were evaluated using the Z-scan technique, which observed a concentration dependent nonlinear refractive index. Low power optical limiting was also observed based on nonlinear refraction, indicating VOPc's potential as an optical limiting material.
Review of Salt and Pepper Noise Present Within the Image during Image Compres...IRJET Journal
This document reviews salt and pepper noise present in images during image compression. Salt and pepper noise causes black and white pixels to appear randomly, distorting the image. Median filters are commonly used to reduce this type of noise. The document discusses median filtering and related work using techniques like adaptive median filtering and regularization to remove salt and pepper noise levels as high as 90%. While median filtering works well, modifications may be needed to handle extremely high noise levels.
This document discusses the application of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) in the feed industry. NIRS is a rapid, nondestructive technique used to determine the protein, moisture, starch, lipid, and ash content of feed ingredients. It has been accepted as an official method for analyzing crude protein, acid detergent fiber, and moisture in feeds. NIRS can also be used to detect heat damaged proteins, fungal contamination, and adulteration in feeds. Calibrations are developed using statistical methods to relate NIR spectra to wet chemistry values. NIRS offers advantages such as rapid analysis, little to no sample preparation, simultaneous analysis of multiple components, and environmental friendliness.
Evaluation of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy as a tool for determination of...SLOPE Project
This document summarizes a task to evaluate near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for determining log and biomass quality in mountain forests. Several organizations will work together on the task, led by CNR. CNR will coordinate, evaluate NIR spectroscopy along the harvesting chain, and develop a "NIR quality index." Boku will support CNR with lab measurements and calibration transfer. Other partners will help collect NIR spectra in the field. The objectives are to evaluate NIR spectroscopy for characterizing resources along the harvesting chain and provide guidelines for collection and analysis of NIR spectra. Activities will include feasibility studies, developing chemometric models to predict quality indicators from spectra, and transferring calibrations between lab and portable instruments. Del
Near infrared spectroscopy-Food analysisFoodtech mbg
Near-infrared spectroscopy uses the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum to analyze the chemical composition of food and other solid materials. Measurements in the near-infrared region from 700-2500 nm are used for quantitative analysis of foods. A major advantage is its ability to directly measure the composition of solid foods using diffuse reflection techniques without needing to prepare samples. Near-infrared spectroscopy is used extensively in the food industry to rapidly and non-destructively measure attributes like moisture, fat, protein and sugar content.
This document discusses the use of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for chemical analysis of feeds and foods. NIRS allows rapid, non-destructive testing of multiple components at once. It is faster and cheaper than traditional wet chemistry methods. NIRS works by measuring how organic compounds absorb near-infrared light. Absorption data is used to build calibration models that can then predict nutrient content of new samples. NIRS is advantageous as it provides real-time, multi-component analysis without chemicals or waste.
A polymethyl-methacrylate (PMMA) acrylic sample cell using flow injection is developed in this research for the determination of nitrite in an aqueous media. The research focuses on exhibiting direct absorbance spectrophotometry of nitrite using concentration of samples ranging from 0.1078 to 1.725 ppm. Nitrite determination is done colorimetrically using the Greiss reagent method. This method is based on the reaction of nitrite with sulphanilamide acid and N-1-napthylamine (NED) utilizing diazo coupling, and a syringe is used to administer the nitrite solution. The sample cell being used possesses a diameter of 1
mm with an overall size of 7.35×22 mm2. To gauge the direct absorbance, a wavelength range from 400 to 650 nm has been selected for the testing, and the maximum absorbance is found to be at 545 nm. The validity of the proposed cell is explained in this letter.
This document discusses the use of infrared spectroscopy, specifically mid-infrared (MIR) and near-infrared (NIR), as an analytical tool in the food industry. It explains that MIR and NIR spectroscopy can be used to quantify major food constituents like water, proteins, lipids, and sugars quickly and without sample preparation. The document provides examples of applications for MIR and NIR spectroscopy in analyzing cereals, grains, flour, bread, dairy products, and more. Infrared spectroscopy is presented as a powerful technique that provides both qualitative and quantitative food analysis faster and with less chemicals than traditional methods.
Low optical limiting and nonlinear optical properties of vanadyl phthalocyani...Alexander Decker
This document summarizes research on the nonlinear optical and optical limiting properties of vanadyl phthalocyanine (VOPc) using a continuous wave laser. VOPc was prepared and characterized. Its third-order nonlinear optical properties were evaluated using the Z-scan technique, which observed a concentration dependent nonlinear refractive index. Low power optical limiting was also observed based on nonlinear refraction, indicating VOPc's potential as an optical limiting material.
Review of Salt and Pepper Noise Present Within the Image during Image Compres...IRJET Journal
This document reviews salt and pepper noise present in images during image compression. Salt and pepper noise causes black and white pixels to appear randomly, distorting the image. Median filters are commonly used to reduce this type of noise. The document discusses median filtering and related work using techniques like adaptive median filtering and regularization to remove salt and pepper noise levels as high as 90%. While median filtering works well, modifications may be needed to handle extremely high noise levels.
This is the MS thesis defend presented in Spring'13. The topic was to present an cloud connected embedded system performing water quality analysis using portable UV spectrometer. Artificial neural network based technique was developed to classify pure vs. dirty water based on COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) parameter.
SERS of insecticides and fungicides assisted by Au and Ag nanostructures prod...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
Abstract— This study deals with the use of laser techniques for preparation of advanced Au and Ag nanostructures on SiO2 (001) substrates to be applied to high-resolution analyses, namely, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) analyses. The optical and morphological properties of the nanostructures are compared with those of the PLD thin films. The activity is tested of the structures fabricated as substrates for SERS covered by small quantities (usually applied in agricultural medicine) of the Aktara 25 BG (thiamethoxam) insecticide and the Dithane DG (mancozeb) fungicide. To the best of our knowledge, Raman spectra of Aktara 25 BG are presented for the first time. The study has a direct bearing on the human health and food quality by way of assisting the detection of small amounts or residue of harmful pollutants.
IRJET- Biosorption and Optimization Studies on Congo Red Dye with Fanwort...IRJET Journal
This document summarizes a study on the biosorption of Congo Red dye using fanwort powder. The researchers characterized the fanwort powder and dye-loaded powder using FTIR, XRD, and SEM analysis. Equilibrium studies were conducted to determine the effects of contact time, biosorbent size, and pH on the biosorption process. The optimum conditions for biosorption were found to be a contact time of 40 minutes, biosorbent size of 53 μm, and pH of 5. Kinetic, isotherm, and thermodynamic studies were also included to understand the biosorption process. A Box-Behnken design was used to optimize the process parameters.
This document summarizes a study analyzing the image profiles of poly-(diamino naphthalene) (PDAN) doped poly-(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) films using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). ToF-SIMS was used to obtain total ion images and positive ion images of PVA, diamino-naphthalene (DAN) doped PVA, and PDAN doped PVA films. The results showed that total ion counts and secondary ion intensities decreased with increasing molecular mass of species, indicating higher mass fragments are more affected by surface density. Positive ion images of different mass fragments for each film were obtained, with contrast and
This document discusses near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and its potential for detecting vulnerable plaque. It provides background on NIR spectroscopy and how it works. The document also compares NIR spectroscopy to infrared (IR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy in terms of their strengths and weaknesses. It describes previous research that has used NIR spectroscopy to detect plaque characteristics. The document concludes that while NIR spectroscopy shows promise for this application, more research funding is still needed to fully realize its potential.
Initial-pressed juice is an important intermediate
product in cane sugar industry, and sugar brix is a key indicator
for evaluating sugar quality. Real-time evaluation of sugar quality
requires determining the content of sugar brix in all steps of the
cane sugar process. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is simple,
rapid and non-destructive technologies on the analysis of material
contents. In this study, the chemometric algorithm of parametercombined
tuning of Savitzky-Golay (SG) smoother and Partial
Least Squares (PLS) regression was utilized for NIR analysis of
sugar brix contents in sugarcane initial-pressure juice. The
algorithms of combined optimization of SG smoother and PLS
regression was achieved and the calibration models were
optimally established by screening the expanded 540 SG
smoothing modes and the 1-30 latent valuables (LV). The
optimized models have high predictive accuracy. These results
confirm that the combined optimization of SG smoothing modes
and PLS LVs is effective in the quantitative determination of
sugar brix contents in sugarcane initial-pressure juice, and that
the NIR spectroscopic technology with its chemometric algorithms
have the potential in the analysis of cane sugar intermediates.
International Journal of Engineering Research and Applications (IJERA) is an open access online peer reviewed international journal that publishes research and review articles in the fields of Computer Science, Neural Networks, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Plastic Engineering, Food Technology, Textile Engineering, Nano Technology & science, Power Electronics, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Computational mathematics, Image processing, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, VLSI Testing & Low Power VLSI Design etc.
Radiation dose to the eyes of readers at the least distance of distinct visio...IOSR Journals
This work reports the measurements of the radionuclide contents in some widely read daily newspapers published in Nigeria, using gamma spectrometry. The radionuclides detected in the newspapers measured consisted of the natural radionuclides belonging to the series headed by 228Ra and 226Ra as well as the singly occurring radionuclide 40K. The mean activity concentrations obtained for 40K, 226Ra and 228Ra respectively in the newspapers were 183.41±135.43, 9.06±3.64 and 6.11±1.36 Bqkg-1, 139.10±90.38, 7.58±1.87 and 5.29±1.33 Bqkg-1 and 152.10±114.32, 9.62±1.40 and 5.76±1.29 Bqkg-1 respectively from P1, P2 and P3. The doses to the eyes due to the measured activity concentrations in the newspaper samples were determined for a distance of 0.25 m (least distance of distinct vision) from the eyes. The annual effective doses to the eye resulting from the activities of the radionuclides identified with observed regularity in all the newspaper samples, obtained in this study are 0.012±0.010, 0.010±0.009, 0.010±0.009 μSv y-1 respectively for the newspapers. These values show that the doses to the lens of the eye from the Nigerian newspapers assessed in this work are very low compared to the annual dose limit of 15 mSv y
Natural Dye from Phyllanthus Reticulatus Fruit as Light –Harvesting Pigments ...IRJET Journal
This document summarizes a study on using natural dye extracted from phyllanthus reticulatus fruit as a light-harvesting pigment for dye-sensitized solar cells. The dye was extracted using different solvents and its absorption spectra were analyzed. The dye was then used to sensitize titanium dioxide nanoparticles in photoanodes. UV-visible absorption spectroscopy showed the dye extracted in acetone had better absorption and interaction with the TiO2 than dyes extracted in other solvents. The energy gaps were calculated from the absorption spectra. Overall, the study demonstrated that natural dye from phyllanthus reticulatus fruit has potential for use as a low-cost sensitizer in dye-sensitized solar cells.
Rapid Determination of Indirect COD and Polyvinyl Alcohol from Textile Desizi...Sandip Magdum
PVA (Polyvinyl alcohol) is completely degraded and utilized by non-ubiquitous microorganisms as a sole source of carbon. PVA containing effluent treatments are not preferred because of high cost. PVA causes serious environmental pollution hence the objective of this work was to establish rapid and reliable method for analysis of COD (Chemical oxygen demand) and PVA concentration in textile desizing or any PVA containing effluent. Two indirect methods namely COD by TC (Total carbon) and TOC (Total organic carbon) were compared with COD chemical as standard. The percentage deviation of 0-0.8% PVA was same in both indirect COD by TC and TOC whereas for 1 - 4% PVA it was <10 for COD by TC and 30 to 35 for COD by TOC. Standard deviation range for indirect COD by TC was 600-3000, while indirect COD by TOC was 1500-28000. Indirect COD by TC was found more precise than indirect COD by TOC for PVA containing samples and more rapid than COD chemical. The spectrophotometrically analyzing PVA concentration by iodine method was reconfirmed and absorbance at 690 nm indicates corresponding PVA concentration. TC and iodine methods of analyzing PVA containing effluent were rapid and precise than conventional chemical COD method; these could be useful in the faster pollution detection and environmental protection from PVA.
This document describes the development and validation of a UV-spectrophotometric method for estimating Abacavir Sulfate nanoparticles. The method was developed using a phosphate buffer at pH 7.4. The absorption maximum was determined to be 285 nm. The method was found to be linear between 4-24 μg/mL. Validation studies established that the method has good precision, accuracy, limit of detection, limit of quantification and is robust and rugged. The developed method provides a simple, precise and accurate way to analyze Abacavir Sulfate nanoparticles.
This document discusses the use of soft x-ray nanoanalytical tools for studying thin film organic electronics. Specifically, it summarizes research using scanning transmission x-ray microspectroscopy (STXM) and resonant soft x-ray scattering (RSoXS) to characterize the nanoscale morphology, chemical composition, and charge transport properties of organic thin films and devices. STXM provides chemical imaging down to 12 nm resolution while RSoXS can resolve structures below the STXM resolution limit. Together these techniques provide insights into structure-property relationships in organic photovoltaics, field-effect transistors, and other organic electronic materials and devices.
A novel label-free cocaine assay based on aptamer-wrapped single-walled carbo...Nanomedicine Journal (NMJ)
Objective(s):
This paper describes a selective and sensitive biosensor based on the dissolution and aggregation of aptamer wrapped single-walled carbon nanotubes. We report on the direct detection of aptamer–cocaine interactions, namely between a DNA aptamer and cocaine molecules based on near-infrared absorption at λ807.
Materials and Methods:
First a DNA aptamer recognizing cocaine was non-covalently immobilized on the surface of single walled carbon nanotubes and consequently dissolution of SWNTs was occurred. Vis-NIR absorption (A807nm) of dispersed, soluble aptamer-SWNTs hybrid, before and after incubation with cocaine was measured using a CECIL9000 spectrophotometer.
Results:
This carbon nanotube setup enabled the reliable monitoring of the interaction of cocaine with its cognate aptamer by aggregation of SWNTs in the presence of cocaine.
Disscusion:
This assay system provides a mean for the label-free, concentration-dependent, and selective detection of cocaine with an observed detection limit of 49.5 nM.
This document summarizes research on using a carbon dioxide laser to fade the color of cotton/kapok indigo denim fabric. Key findings include:
1) Laser treatment successfully faded the color of the cotton/kapok fabric, reducing the K/S value, while having little impact on thickness or permeability.
2) Tensile strength of the cotton/kapok fabric decreased with laser treatment, likely because the internal air of hollow kapok fibers was squeezed out.
3) Increasing laser power or decreasing speed led to greater reductions in both K/S values and strength, but negligible changes in thickness and permeability.
International Journal of Engineering and Science Invention (IJESI)inventionjournals
International Journal of Engineering and Science Invention (IJESI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of computer science and electronics. IJESI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Engineering Science and Technology, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online
1) Titania nanopowder was prepared using a sol-gel method with titanium butoxide and nitric acid as precursors and urea as a dopant to decrease the band gap, allowing for visible light absorption.
2) Characterization with XRD, FTIR, UV-Vis, and SEM showed the powders were nanocrystalline with a band gap below 2.5 eV.
3) In photocatalytic tests, the powders significantly degraded xylenes and ethylbenzene (70% and 60% respectively) under visible light, but degraded toluene to a lesser extent (7.44%), demonstrating their photocatalytic activity.
The document discusses several mural artworks found in Malaysia. It provides background on the artists and descriptions of the murals. The first mural in Petaling Jaya depicts two young female artists and their interest in animation. It uses a lantern to represent peace. In Penang, a mural by Ernest Zacharevic shows a trishaw peddler resting. Another mural by the same artist in George Town says "Wo Ai Nee Malay Indian" and depicts three women in traditional Malaysian costumes for Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures.
Dynamic Role Engine and Formation Control for Cooperating Agents with Robust ...Waqas Tariq
Robocup is an international competition for multi- agent research and related subject like: Artificial intelligence, Image processing, machine learning, robot path planning, control, and obstacle avoidance. In a soccer robot game, the environment is highly competitive and dynamic. In order to work in the dynamically changing environment, the decision-making system of a soccer robot system should have the features of flexibility and real-time adaptation. In this paper we will focus on the Middle Size Soccer Robot league (MSL). In this paper a new hierarchical hybrid fuzzy methods for decision making and action selection of a robot in Middle Size Soccer Robot league (MSL) are presented. First, the behaviors of an agent are introduced, implemented and classified in two layers, the Low_Level_Behaviors and the High_Level_Behaviors. In the second layer, a two phase mechanism for decision making is introduced. In phase one, some useful methods are implemented which check the robots situation for performing required behaviors. In the next phase, the team strategy, team formation, robots role and the robots positioning system are introduced. A fuzzy logical approach is employed to recognize the team strategy and further more to tell the player the best position to move. We believe that a Dynamic role engine is necessary for a successful team. Dynamic role engine and formation control during offensive or defensive play, help us to prevent collision avoidance among own players when attacking the ball and obstacle avoidance of the opponents. At last, we comprised our implemented algorithm in the Robocup2007 and 2008 and results showed the efficiency of the introduced methodology. The results are satisfactory which has already been successfully implemented in ADRO RoboCup team.
This is the MS thesis defend presented in Spring'13. The topic was to present an cloud connected embedded system performing water quality analysis using portable UV spectrometer. Artificial neural network based technique was developed to classify pure vs. dirty water based on COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand) parameter.
SERS of insecticides and fungicides assisted by Au and Ag nanostructures prod...Agriculture Journal IJOEAR
Abstract— This study deals with the use of laser techniques for preparation of advanced Au and Ag nanostructures on SiO2 (001) substrates to be applied to high-resolution analyses, namely, surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) analyses. The optical and morphological properties of the nanostructures are compared with those of the PLD thin films. The activity is tested of the structures fabricated as substrates for SERS covered by small quantities (usually applied in agricultural medicine) of the Aktara 25 BG (thiamethoxam) insecticide and the Dithane DG (mancozeb) fungicide. To the best of our knowledge, Raman spectra of Aktara 25 BG are presented for the first time. The study has a direct bearing on the human health and food quality by way of assisting the detection of small amounts or residue of harmful pollutants.
IRJET- Biosorption and Optimization Studies on Congo Red Dye with Fanwort...IRJET Journal
This document summarizes a study on the biosorption of Congo Red dye using fanwort powder. The researchers characterized the fanwort powder and dye-loaded powder using FTIR, XRD, and SEM analysis. Equilibrium studies were conducted to determine the effects of contact time, biosorbent size, and pH on the biosorption process. The optimum conditions for biosorption were found to be a contact time of 40 minutes, biosorbent size of 53 μm, and pH of 5. Kinetic, isotherm, and thermodynamic studies were also included to understand the biosorption process. A Box-Behnken design was used to optimize the process parameters.
This document summarizes a study analyzing the image profiles of poly-(diamino naphthalene) (PDAN) doped poly-(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) films using time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). ToF-SIMS was used to obtain total ion images and positive ion images of PVA, diamino-naphthalene (DAN) doped PVA, and PDAN doped PVA films. The results showed that total ion counts and secondary ion intensities decreased with increasing molecular mass of species, indicating higher mass fragments are more affected by surface density. Positive ion images of different mass fragments for each film were obtained, with contrast and
This document discusses near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and its potential for detecting vulnerable plaque. It provides background on NIR spectroscopy and how it works. The document also compares NIR spectroscopy to infrared (IR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy in terms of their strengths and weaknesses. It describes previous research that has used NIR spectroscopy to detect plaque characteristics. The document concludes that while NIR spectroscopy shows promise for this application, more research funding is still needed to fully realize its potential.
Initial-pressed juice is an important intermediate
product in cane sugar industry, and sugar brix is a key indicator
for evaluating sugar quality. Real-time evaluation of sugar quality
requires determining the content of sugar brix in all steps of the
cane sugar process. Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy is simple,
rapid and non-destructive technologies on the analysis of material
contents. In this study, the chemometric algorithm of parametercombined
tuning of Savitzky-Golay (SG) smoother and Partial
Least Squares (PLS) regression was utilized for NIR analysis of
sugar brix contents in sugarcane initial-pressure juice. The
algorithms of combined optimization of SG smoother and PLS
regression was achieved and the calibration models were
optimally established by screening the expanded 540 SG
smoothing modes and the 1-30 latent valuables (LV). The
optimized models have high predictive accuracy. These results
confirm that the combined optimization of SG smoothing modes
and PLS LVs is effective in the quantitative determination of
sugar brix contents in sugarcane initial-pressure juice, and that
the NIR spectroscopic technology with its chemometric algorithms
have the potential in the analysis of cane sugar intermediates.
International Journal of Engineering Research and Applications (IJERA) is an open access online peer reviewed international journal that publishes research and review articles in the fields of Computer Science, Neural Networks, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Plastic Engineering, Food Technology, Textile Engineering, Nano Technology & science, Power Electronics, Electronics & Communication Engineering, Computational mathematics, Image processing, Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, VLSI Testing & Low Power VLSI Design etc.
Radiation dose to the eyes of readers at the least distance of distinct visio...IOSR Journals
This work reports the measurements of the radionuclide contents in some widely read daily newspapers published in Nigeria, using gamma spectrometry. The radionuclides detected in the newspapers measured consisted of the natural radionuclides belonging to the series headed by 228Ra and 226Ra as well as the singly occurring radionuclide 40K. The mean activity concentrations obtained for 40K, 226Ra and 228Ra respectively in the newspapers were 183.41±135.43, 9.06±3.64 and 6.11±1.36 Bqkg-1, 139.10±90.38, 7.58±1.87 and 5.29±1.33 Bqkg-1 and 152.10±114.32, 9.62±1.40 and 5.76±1.29 Bqkg-1 respectively from P1, P2 and P3. The doses to the eyes due to the measured activity concentrations in the newspaper samples were determined for a distance of 0.25 m (least distance of distinct vision) from the eyes. The annual effective doses to the eye resulting from the activities of the radionuclides identified with observed regularity in all the newspaper samples, obtained in this study are 0.012±0.010, 0.010±0.009, 0.010±0.009 μSv y-1 respectively for the newspapers. These values show that the doses to the lens of the eye from the Nigerian newspapers assessed in this work are very low compared to the annual dose limit of 15 mSv y
Natural Dye from Phyllanthus Reticulatus Fruit as Light –Harvesting Pigments ...IRJET Journal
This document summarizes a study on using natural dye extracted from phyllanthus reticulatus fruit as a light-harvesting pigment for dye-sensitized solar cells. The dye was extracted using different solvents and its absorption spectra were analyzed. The dye was then used to sensitize titanium dioxide nanoparticles in photoanodes. UV-visible absorption spectroscopy showed the dye extracted in acetone had better absorption and interaction with the TiO2 than dyes extracted in other solvents. The energy gaps were calculated from the absorption spectra. Overall, the study demonstrated that natural dye from phyllanthus reticulatus fruit has potential for use as a low-cost sensitizer in dye-sensitized solar cells.
Rapid Determination of Indirect COD and Polyvinyl Alcohol from Textile Desizi...Sandip Magdum
PVA (Polyvinyl alcohol) is completely degraded and utilized by non-ubiquitous microorganisms as a sole source of carbon. PVA containing effluent treatments are not preferred because of high cost. PVA causes serious environmental pollution hence the objective of this work was to establish rapid and reliable method for analysis of COD (Chemical oxygen demand) and PVA concentration in textile desizing or any PVA containing effluent. Two indirect methods namely COD by TC (Total carbon) and TOC (Total organic carbon) were compared with COD chemical as standard. The percentage deviation of 0-0.8% PVA was same in both indirect COD by TC and TOC whereas for 1 - 4% PVA it was <10 for COD by TC and 30 to 35 for COD by TOC. Standard deviation range for indirect COD by TC was 600-3000, while indirect COD by TOC was 1500-28000. Indirect COD by TC was found more precise than indirect COD by TOC for PVA containing samples and more rapid than COD chemical. The spectrophotometrically analyzing PVA concentration by iodine method was reconfirmed and absorbance at 690 nm indicates corresponding PVA concentration. TC and iodine methods of analyzing PVA containing effluent were rapid and precise than conventional chemical COD method; these could be useful in the faster pollution detection and environmental protection from PVA.
This document describes the development and validation of a UV-spectrophotometric method for estimating Abacavir Sulfate nanoparticles. The method was developed using a phosphate buffer at pH 7.4. The absorption maximum was determined to be 285 nm. The method was found to be linear between 4-24 μg/mL. Validation studies established that the method has good precision, accuracy, limit of detection, limit of quantification and is robust and rugged. The developed method provides a simple, precise and accurate way to analyze Abacavir Sulfate nanoparticles.
This document discusses the use of soft x-ray nanoanalytical tools for studying thin film organic electronics. Specifically, it summarizes research using scanning transmission x-ray microspectroscopy (STXM) and resonant soft x-ray scattering (RSoXS) to characterize the nanoscale morphology, chemical composition, and charge transport properties of organic thin films and devices. STXM provides chemical imaging down to 12 nm resolution while RSoXS can resolve structures below the STXM resolution limit. Together these techniques provide insights into structure-property relationships in organic photovoltaics, field-effect transistors, and other organic electronic materials and devices.
A novel label-free cocaine assay based on aptamer-wrapped single-walled carbo...Nanomedicine Journal (NMJ)
Objective(s):
This paper describes a selective and sensitive biosensor based on the dissolution and aggregation of aptamer wrapped single-walled carbon nanotubes. We report on the direct detection of aptamer–cocaine interactions, namely between a DNA aptamer and cocaine molecules based on near-infrared absorption at λ807.
Materials and Methods:
First a DNA aptamer recognizing cocaine was non-covalently immobilized on the surface of single walled carbon nanotubes and consequently dissolution of SWNTs was occurred. Vis-NIR absorption (A807nm) of dispersed, soluble aptamer-SWNTs hybrid, before and after incubation with cocaine was measured using a CECIL9000 spectrophotometer.
Results:
This carbon nanotube setup enabled the reliable monitoring of the interaction of cocaine with its cognate aptamer by aggregation of SWNTs in the presence of cocaine.
Disscusion:
This assay system provides a mean for the label-free, concentration-dependent, and selective detection of cocaine with an observed detection limit of 49.5 nM.
This document summarizes research on using a carbon dioxide laser to fade the color of cotton/kapok indigo denim fabric. Key findings include:
1) Laser treatment successfully faded the color of the cotton/kapok fabric, reducing the K/S value, while having little impact on thickness or permeability.
2) Tensile strength of the cotton/kapok fabric decreased with laser treatment, likely because the internal air of hollow kapok fibers was squeezed out.
3) Increasing laser power or decreasing speed led to greater reductions in both K/S values and strength, but negligible changes in thickness and permeability.
International Journal of Engineering and Science Invention (IJESI)inventionjournals
International Journal of Engineering and Science Invention (IJESI) is an international journal intended for professionals and researchers in all fields of computer science and electronics. IJESI publishes research articles and reviews within the whole field Engineering Science and Technology, new teaching methods, assessment, validation and the impact of new technologies and it will continue to provide information on the latest trends and developments in this ever-expanding subject. The publications of papers are selected through double peer reviewed to ensure originality, relevance, and readability. The articles published in our journal can be accessed online
1) Titania nanopowder was prepared using a sol-gel method with titanium butoxide and nitric acid as precursors and urea as a dopant to decrease the band gap, allowing for visible light absorption.
2) Characterization with XRD, FTIR, UV-Vis, and SEM showed the powders were nanocrystalline with a band gap below 2.5 eV.
3) In photocatalytic tests, the powders significantly degraded xylenes and ethylbenzene (70% and 60% respectively) under visible light, but degraded toluene to a lesser extent (7.44%), demonstrating their photocatalytic activity.
The document discusses several mural artworks found in Malaysia. It provides background on the artists and descriptions of the murals. The first mural in Petaling Jaya depicts two young female artists and their interest in animation. It uses a lantern to represent peace. In Penang, a mural by Ernest Zacharevic shows a trishaw peddler resting. Another mural by the same artist in George Town says "Wo Ai Nee Malay Indian" and depicts three women in traditional Malaysian costumes for Chinese, Indian and Malay cultures.
Dynamic Role Engine and Formation Control for Cooperating Agents with Robust ...Waqas Tariq
Robocup is an international competition for multi- agent research and related subject like: Artificial intelligence, Image processing, machine learning, robot path planning, control, and obstacle avoidance. In a soccer robot game, the environment is highly competitive and dynamic. In order to work in the dynamically changing environment, the decision-making system of a soccer robot system should have the features of flexibility and real-time adaptation. In this paper we will focus on the Middle Size Soccer Robot league (MSL). In this paper a new hierarchical hybrid fuzzy methods for decision making and action selection of a robot in Middle Size Soccer Robot league (MSL) are presented. First, the behaviors of an agent are introduced, implemented and classified in two layers, the Low_Level_Behaviors and the High_Level_Behaviors. In the second layer, a two phase mechanism for decision making is introduced. In phase one, some useful methods are implemented which check the robots situation for performing required behaviors. In the next phase, the team strategy, team formation, robots role and the robots positioning system are introduced. A fuzzy logical approach is employed to recognize the team strategy and further more to tell the player the best position to move. We believe that a Dynamic role engine is necessary for a successful team. Dynamic role engine and formation control during offensive or defensive play, help us to prevent collision avoidance among own players when attacking the ball and obstacle avoidance of the opponents. At last, we comprised our implemented algorithm in the Robocup2007 and 2008 and results showed the efficiency of the introduced methodology. The results are satisfactory which has already been successfully implemented in ADRO RoboCup team.
Este Documento habla de la migración mexicana y analiza los pros y contras de ésta, para llegar a una conclusión que responda ¿En verdad es conveniente la migración?
La vena mesentérica superior recibe afluentes de las venas ileales, yeyunales y cólicas. Termina uniéndose a la vena esplénica y a la vena porta hepática. Presenta linfáticos yeyunoileales y lleales terminales, así como nervios provenientes del plexo celíaco y ganglios mesentéricos.
Linear Energy Transfer (LET) refers to the amount of energy deposited by ionizing radiation per unit distance traveled. High LET radiation like alpha particles and neutrons deposit large amounts of energy over short distances, while low LET radiation like x-rays deposit energy sparsely over longer tracks. High LET radiation is more biologically destructive due to dense localized DNA damage. Relative Biological Effectiveness (RBE) compares the biological effects of different radiations, with higher RBE indicating greater effectiveness. RBE increases with LET up to around 100 keV/μm due to optimal DNA double-strand break formation, then decreases at higher LET. Sulfhydryl compounds like cysteamine are effective radioprotectors by scavenging free radicals
Potential of Neem Leaf Powder as Bio Adsorbents for Dye Colour Removalijtsrd
This study investigated the potential of neem leaf powder and acid-treated neem leaf powder as low-cost bio-adsorbents for removing dye color from Congo red solutions. The neem leaf powders were characterized using FTIR, XRD, and SEM analysis. Adsorption experiments were conducted by varying the adsorbent dosage and agitation time. The results showed that 0.4g was the optimal dosage, with 91% color removal for neem leaf powder and 76% for acid-treated neem leaf powder after 60 minutes of agitation. Both neem leaf powders demonstrated potential as effective and low-cost bio-adsorbents for dye wastewater treatment.
NIR in Leaf Chlorophyll Concentration EstimationIRJET Journal
This document discusses using field imaging spectroscopy and random forests to estimate leaf chlorophyll concentration in soybeans. A field imaging spectrometer system was used to collect hyperspectral reflectance data from soybean leaves. The PROSPECT radiative transfer model was used to relate the spectral data to chlorophyll content. Random forests were then used to develop a model for estimating chlorophyll content based on the spectral data. The model was able to accurately retrieve chlorophyll content from validation spectral data, demonstrating the potential of this approach for remote monitoring of crop health conditions. Future work involves applying this method from field to satellite data to allow monitoring soybean health over large areas.
Near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) is a technique that can be used to analyze the chemical composition of feed and fishmeal by measuring the absorption of near infrared light. NIRS allows for rapid, non-destructive testing of samples to determine levels of components like protein, moisture, fat, and ash. The document discusses the principles behind NIRS, calibration procedures, applications in analyzing fishmeal and other feeds, and the advantages and limitations of using NIRS for feed analysis.
This document discusses using smart materials with infrared spectrometry to determine hydrocarbons. It outlines using polymer-coated sensors and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy to detect analytes like chlorinated hydrocarbons, pesticides, and BTEX compounds. Examples are given of using Teflon AF films to simultaneously detect various chlorinated compounds and plasticized PVC films for pesticide analysis. Gas-phase studies using sparging demonstrated multi-component analysis of solvent residues in pharmaceuticals. The potential applications of these materials-based sensors include environmental monitoring, industrial process control, and occupational health screening.
This document presents a study comparing artificial neural network (ANN) and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) models for estimating pH and mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) in a domestic wastewater treatment plant. Data from the Bunus regional sewage treatment plant was used to develop and test ANN and ANFIS models. Simulation results showed that the ANFIS model predictions were more accurate than the ANN model, making ANFIS a useful tool for predicting important wastewater treatment plant parameters.
FT-NIR as a real-time QC tool for polymer manufacturingGalaxy Scientific
Near infrared spectroscopy has been used widely in the polymer industry. Compared to traditional methods such as wet chemistry and chromatographic methods, NIR spectroscopy provides considerable advantages in process and quality control applications through fundamental benefits such as low to no cost of consumables such as solvents, columns, reagents; real time analysis - generally less than 10 seconds measurement time; multiple components per analysis; elimination of sample preparation time; and elimination of many sources of systematic error.
This presentation will present three FT-NIR polymer applications: 1) at line polyether polyols’ hydroxyl value analysis; 2) real time isocyanate number monitoring during a polyurethane reaction; and 3) off-line quality control of percentage styrene in styrene copolymers.
The document discusses Process Analytical Technology (PAT) and its implementation in the pharmaceutical industry. PAT uses tools like near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy to monitor critical quality attributes during manufacturing. The key aspects of PAT include identifying quality attributes through risk analysis, understanding manufacturing processes, and using process analyzers to monitor parameters and detect defects early. Process analyzers provide real-time multivariate data to facilitate continuous process monitoring and control. NIR spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy allow fast, non-destructive measurement and have been applied to various unit operations in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Successful implementation of PAT and process analyzers can improve quality, reduce costs, and help ensure consistent production of quality products.
This document describes a study investigating the use of steering-wheel photonic crystal fiber (SW-PCF) combined with a nanospectrometer for fluorescence spectroscopy applications. A 70mW laser at 637nm was used to excite nile blue perchlorate dye loaded into a 14cm SW-PCF. Fluorescence spectra were measured using both a conventional optical spectrum analyzer and a nanospectrometer. The SW-PCF enhanced the interaction between light and dye, but spectra obtained did not match expected dye absorption and emission peaks. Further optimization is needed to realize the potential of this SW-PCF nanospectrometer system for compact chemical sensing.
Characterization of Liquid Waste in Isotope production and Research Facilitiesiosrjce
IOSR Journal of Applied Physics (IOSR-JAP) is a double blind peer reviewed International Journal that provides rapid publication (within a month) of articles in all areas of physics and its applications. The journal welcomes publications of high quality papers on theoretical developments and practical applications in applied physics. Original research papers, state-of-the-art reviews, and high quality technical notes are invited for publications.
A Simple, Rapid Analysis, Portable, Low-cost, and Arduino-based Spectrophotom...TELKOMNIKA JOURNAL
The purpose of this study was to demonstrate a simple, rapid analysis, portable, and inexpensive spectrophotometer. Different from other spectrophotometers, the present instrument consisted of a single white light-emmiting-diode (LED) as a light source, a light sensor, and arduino electronic card as an acquisition system. To maintain a constant light intensity, a common white-color LED emitting a 450-620 nm continous spectrum was employed. Software was written in C++ to control photometer through a USB interface and for data acquistion to the computer. The instrument is designed to be simple and compacted with sizes of 200 x 130 x 150 mm for length, width, and height, respectively. The analysis of the total cost isabout less than 500 USD, while commercially available offers price of more than 10,000 USD. Thus, this makes the present instrument feasible for teaching support media in developing countries. The effectiveness of the present spectrophotometer for analyzing solution concentration (i.e. curcumin) was also demonstrated. Interestingly, the present spectrophotometer is able to measure the concentration of curcumin precisely with an accuracy of more than 90%. Different from commercially available standard UV-visible spectrophotometers that have limitations in the analysis of concentration of less than 50 ppm, the present system can measure the concentration with no limitation since the measurement is based on the LED light being penetrated.
Nanocrystalline Nickel Zinc Ferrite as an efficient alcohol sensor at room te...IJEAB
In the present communication, nanocrystalline nickel zinc ferrite (NZF) has been successfully synthesized by temperature and spin controlled coprecipitation techinique. The structural and surface morphological characterizations of the sample have been analyzed by means of Powder X-ray Diffraction (PXRD) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). The minimum crystalline size of prepared NZF sample calculated from Scherer’s formula and is found to be 25 nm. FESEM images exhibit the porous nature of the sensing material with a number of active sites. In a comparative study on the sensing characteristics of nanostructured NZF pellet towards three primary alcohols viz. ethanol, propanol and butanol, the maximum sensitivity is found to be nearly 90% for 1000 ppm of the ethanol vapour at room temperature. The sensing response followed the order of ethanol > propanol > butanol with respect to time. The experimental results show that nanostructured NZF is a promising material for alcohol sensor. The sensor responses are quite stable and highly reproducible even at room temperature.
This document describes the development of a bio-inspired sensor for detecting the insect pheromone 2-heptanone. The sensor was created by functionalizing an atomic force microscopy (AFM) cantilever with a thin film of polyaniline (PANI) using spin-coating. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed that the PANI film adsorbed 2-heptanone molecules. The functionalized cantilever sensor demonstrated a linear response to varying 2-heptanone concentrations at different temperatures. The sensor exhibited properties such as reversibility, repeatability and hysteresis suitable for reliable pheromone detection. The approach of functionalizing an AFM cantilever with a conductive polymer coating
Analysis of Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for chlorophyll prediction in oi...journalBEEI
This document analyzes the use of near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to predict chlorophyll content in oil palm leaves as a non-invasive alternative to traditional chemical analysis methods. NIR spectral data from oil palm leaf samples were collected and correlated with chlorophyll readings using partial least squares regression with different preprocessing techniques. Savitzky-Golay smoothing produced the best results with an R^2 of 0.9998 for calibration and prediction, indicating NIR spectroscopy can accurately predict chlorophyll content in oil palm leaves in a time-saving manner without destructive sampling.
An evaluation of machine learning algorithms coupled to an electronic olfact...IJECEIAES
The aim of this investigatation is to compare the utility of machine learning algorithms in distinguishing between untreated and processed mint beside in predicting the spray day of the insecticide. Within seven days, mint treated samples with the malathion insecticide are collected, and their aromas are Studied using a laboratory-manufactured sensor array system based on commercial metallic semiconductor (MOS) gas sensors. To distinguish the mint type, some results of machine learning algorithms were compared to know the decision trees (DT), Naive Bayes, support vector machines (SVM), and ensemble classifier. Furthermore, to predict the treatment day support vector machines regression (SVMR) and partial least squares regression (PLSR) were compared. Regarding the best results, in the discrimination case, a success rate of 92.9% was achieved by the ensemble classifier while in the prediction case, a correlation coefficient of R=0.82 was reached by the SVMR. Good results are achieved if the right gas sensor array system is designed and realized coupled with a good choice of the appropriate machine learning algorithms.
The document describes work done in Task 4.4 to optimize acoustic measurement protocols and develop prediction models for characterizing wood quality using stress wave tests, with the goals of determining two quality indices: an index (SW#1) relating stress wave velocity to overall log quality, and an index (SW#2) relating free vibration frequency to external log quality. Sensors were integrated with a forest harvester to measure stress waves and vibrations, and algorithms were developed to compute the quality indices from the acoustic data.
The document describes the development and testing of a microcantilever sensor for humidity detection. Polyaniline (PANI) was deposited on microcantilever surfaces using spin-coating as the sensitive layer. The microcantilevers were then tested in an atomic force microscope to measure deflection at various levels of relative humidity and temperatures. Results showed the PANI-coated microcantilevers deflected more than uncoated ones, responding faster at 10°C but with better sensitivity and reversibility at 30°C. This demonstrates the potential of using spin-coated PANI microcantilevers for humidity sensing at different temperatures.
The document describes the development of a dopamine biosensor based on a polyaniline/carbon quantum dots (PANi/CQDs) composite. The PANi/CQDs composite was characterized using various techniques and showed absorption and fluorescence properties. For the electrochemical biosensor, an electrospun nanofiber film of PANi/CQDs was fabricated on an electrode. It demonstrated good sensitivity for dopamine detection with a linear range of 10-90 μM. For the fluorescent biosensor, the fluorescence intensity of PANi/CQDs decreased with increasing dopamine concentrations, showing a linear range of 0.1-100 μM. The PANi/CQDs composite is a promising material for sensitive dopamine detection.
techniques for detecting nanoparticles in wastewaterAlekhya Golla
techniques for seperating and analysing the metal containing nanoparticles in wastewater. these techniques are helpful in recycling process of industrial effluents containing nanowastes.
Similar to Rapid Prediction of Extractives and Polyphenolic Contents in Pinus caribaea Bark Using Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy (20)
The Use of Java Swing’s Components to Develop a WidgetWaqas Tariq
Widget is a kind of application provides a single service such as a map, news feed, simple clock, battery-life indicators, etc. This kind of interactive software object has been developed to facilitate user interface (UI) design. A user interface (UI) function may be implemented using different widgets with the same function. In this article, we present the widget as a platform that is generally used in various applications, such as in desktop, web browser, and mobile phone. We also describe a visual menu of Java Swing’s components that will be used to establish widget. It will assume that we have successfully compiled and run a program that uses Swing components.
3D Human Hand Posture Reconstruction Using a Single 2D ImageWaqas Tariq
Passive sensing of the 3D geometric posture of the human hand has been studied extensively over the past decade. However, these research efforts have been hampered by the computational complexity caused by inverse kinematics and 3D reconstruction. In this paper, our objective focuses on 3D hand posture estimation based on a single 2D image with aim of robotic applications. We introduce the human hand model with 27 degrees of freedom (DOFs) and analyze some of its constraints to reduce the DOFs without any significant degradation of performance. A novel algorithm to estimate the 3D hand posture from eight 2D projected feature points is proposed. Experimental results using real images confirm that our algorithm gives good estimates of the 3D hand pose. Keywords: 3D hand posture estimation; Model-based approach; Gesture recognition; human- computer interface; machine vision.
Camera as Mouse and Keyboard for Handicap Person with Troubleshooting Ability...Waqas Tariq
Camera mouse has been widely used for handicap person to interact with computer. The utmost important of the use of camera mouse is must be able to replace all roles of typical mouse and keyboard. It must be able to provide all mouse click events and keyboard functions (include all shortcut keys) when it is used by handicap person. Also, the use of camera mouse must allow users troubleshooting by themselves. Moreover, it must be able to eliminate neck fatigue effect when it is used during long period. In this paper, we propose camera mouse system with timer as left click event and blinking as right click event. Also, we modify original screen keyboard layout by add two additional buttons (button “drag/ drop” is used to do drag and drop of mouse events and another button is used to call task manager (for troubleshooting)) and change behavior of CTRL, ALT, SHIFT, and CAPS LOCK keys in order to provide shortcut keys of keyboard. Also, we develop recovery method which allows users go from camera and then come back again in order to eliminate neck fatigue effect. The experiments which involve several users have been done in our laboratory. The results show that the use of our camera mouse able to allow users do typing, left and right click events, drag and drop events, and troubleshooting without hand. By implement this system, handicap person can use computer more comfortable and reduce the dryness of eyes.
A Proposed Web Accessibility Framework for the Arab DisabledWaqas Tariq
The Web is providing unprecedented access to information and interaction for people with disabilities. This paper presents a Web accessibility framework which offers the ease of the Web accessing for the disabled Arab users and facilitates their lifelong learning as well. The proposed framework system provides the disabled Arab user with an easy means of access using their mother language so they don’t have to overcome the barrier of learning the target-spoken language. This framework is based on analyzing the web page meta-language, extracting its content and reformulating it in a suitable format for the disabled users. The basic objective of this framework is supporting the equal rights of the Arab disabled people for their access to the education and training with non disabled people. Key Words : Arabic Moon code, Arabic Sign Language, Deaf, Deaf-blind, E-learning Interactivity, Moon code, Web accessibility , Web framework , Web System, WWW.
Real Time Blinking Detection Based on Gabor FilterWaqas Tariq
The document proposes a new method for real-time blinking detection based on Gabor filters. It begins by reviewing existing methods and their limitations in dealing with noise, variations in eye shape, and blinking speed. The proposed method uses a Gabor filter to extract the top and bottom arcs of the eye from an image. It then measures the distance between these arcs and compares it to a threshold: a distance below the threshold indicates a closed eye, while a distance above indicates an open eye. The document claims this Gabor filter-based approach is robust to noise, variations in eye shape and blinking speed. It presents experimental results showing the method can accurately detect blinking across different users.
Computer Input with Human Eyes-Only Using Two Purkinje Images Which Works in ...Waqas Tariq
A method for computer input with human eyes-only using two Purkinje images which works in a real time basis without calibration is proposed. Experimental results shows that cornea curvature can be estimated by using two light sources derived Purkinje images so that no calibration for reducing person-to-person difference of cornea curvature. It is found that the proposed system allows usersf movements of 30 degrees in roll direction and 15 degrees in pitch direction utilizing detected face attitude which is derived from the face plane consisting three feature points on the face, two eyes and nose or mouth. Also it is found that the proposed system does work in a real time basis.
Toward a More Robust Usability concept with Perceived Enjoyment in the contex...Waqas Tariq
Mobile multimedia service is relatively new but has quickly dominated people¡¯s lives, especially among young people. To explain this popularity, this study applies and modifies the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to propose a research model and conduct an empirical study. The goal of study is to examine the role of Perceived Enjoyment (PE) and what determinants can contribute to PE in the context of using mobile multimedia service. The result indicates that PE is influencing on Perceived Usefulness (PU) and Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU) and directly Behavior Intention (BI). Aesthetics and flow are key determinants to explain Perceived Enjoyment (PE) in mobile multimedia usage.
Collaborative Learning of Organisational KnolwedgeWaqas Tariq
This paper presents recent research into methods used in Australian Indigenous Knowledge sharing and looks at how these can support the creation of suitable collaborative envi- ronments for timely organisational learning. The protocols and practices as used today and in the past by Indigenous communities are presented and discussed in relation to their relevance to a personalised system of knowledge sharing in modern organisational cultures. This research focuses on user models, knowledge acquisition and integration of data for constructivist learning in a networked repository of or- ganisational knowledge. The data collected in the repository is searched to provide collections of up-to-date and relevant material for training in a work environment. The aim is to improve knowledge collection and sharing in a team envi- ronment. This knowledge can then be collated into a story or workflow that represents the present knowledge in the organisation.
Our research aims to propose a global approach for specification, design and verification of context awareness Human Computer Interface (HCI). This is a Model Based Design approach (MBD). This methodology describes the ubiquitous environment by ontologies. OWL is the standard used for this purpose. The specification and modeling of Human-Computer Interaction are based on Petri nets (PN). This raises the question of representation of Petri nets with XML. We use for this purpose, the standard of modeling PNML. In this paper, we propose an extension of this standard for specification, generation and verification of HCI. This extension is a methodological approach for the construction of PNML with Petri nets. The design principle uses the concept of composition of elementary structures of Petri nets as PNML Modular. The objective is to obtain a valid interface through verification of properties of elementary Petri nets represented with PNML.
Development of Sign Signal Translation System Based on Altera’s FPGA DE2 BoardWaqas Tariq
The main aim of this paper is to build a system that is capable of detecting and recognizing the hand gesture in an image captured by using a camera. The system is built based on Altera’s FPGA DE2 board, which contains a Nios II soft core processor. Image processing techniques and a simple but effective algorithm are implemented to achieve this purpose. Image processing techniques are used to smooth the image in order to ease the subsequent processes in translating the hand sign signal. The algorithm is built for translating the numerical hand sign signal and the result are displayed on the seven segment display. Altera’s Quartus II, SOPC Builder and Nios II EDS software are used to construct the system. By using SOPC Builder, the related components on the DE2 board can be interconnected easily and orderly compared to traditional method that requires lengthy source code and time consuming. Quartus II is used to compile and download the design to the DE2 board. Then, under Nios II EDS, C programming language is used to code the hand sign translation algorithm. Being able to recognize the hand sign signal from images can helps human in controlling a robot and other applications which require only a simple set of instructions provided a CMOS sensor is included in the system.
An overview on Advanced Research Works on Brain-Computer InterfaceWaqas Tariq
A brain–computer interface (BCI) is a proficient result in the research field of human- computer synergy, where direct articulation between brain and an external device occurs resulting in augmenting, assisting and repairing human cognitive. Advanced works like generating brain-computer interface switch technologies for intermittent (or asynchronous) control in natural environments or developing brain-computer interface by Fuzzy logic Systems or by implementing wavelet theory to drive its efficacies are still going on and some useful results has also been found out. The requirements to develop this brain machine interface is also growing day by day i.e. like neuropsychological rehabilitation, emotion control, etc. An overview on the control theory and some advanced works on the field of brain machine interface are shown in this paper.
Exploring the Relationship Between Mobile Phone and Senior Citizens: A Malays...Waqas Tariq
There is growing ageing phenomena with the rise of ageing population throughout the world. According to the World Health Organization (2002), the growing ageing population indicates 694 million, or 223% is expected for people aged 60 and over, since 1970 and 2025.The growth is especially significant in some advanced countries such as North America, Japan, Italy, Germany, United Kingdom and so forth. This growing older adult population has significantly impact the social-culture, lifestyle, healthcare system, economy, infrastructure and government policy of a nation. However, there are limited research studies on the perception and usage of a mobile phone and its service for senior citizens in a developing nation like Malaysia. This paper explores the relationship between mobile phones and senior citizens in Malaysia from the perspective of a developing country. We conducted an exploratory study using contextual interviews with 5 senior citizens of how they perceive their mobile phones. This paper reveals 4 interesting themes from this preliminary study, in addition to the findings of the desirable mobile requirements for local senior citizens with respect of health, safety and communication purposes. The findings of this study bring interesting insight to local telecommunication industries as a whole, and will also serve as groundwork for more in-depth study in the future.
Principles of Good Screen Design in WebsitesWaqas Tariq
Visual techniques for proper arrangement of the elements on the user screen have helped the designers to make the screen look good and attractive. Several visual techniques emphasize the arrangement and ordering of the screen elements based on particular criteria for best appearance of the screen. This paper investigates few significant visual techniques in various web user interfaces and showcases the results for better understanding and their presence.
This document discusses the progress of virtual teams in Albania. It provides context on virtual teams and how they differ from traditional teams in their reliance on technology for communication across distances. The document then examines the use of virtual teams in Albania, noting the growing infrastructure and technology usage that enables virtual collaboration. It highlights some virtual team examples in Albanian government and academic projects.
Cognitive Approach Towards the Maintenance of Web-Sites Through Quality Evalu...Waqas Tariq
It is a well established fact that the Web-Applications require frequent maintenance because of cutting– edge business competitions. The authors have worked on quality evaluation of web-site of Indian ecommerce domain. As a result of that work they have made a quality-wise ranking of these sites. According to their work and also the survey done by various other groups Futurebazaar web-site is considered to be one of the best Indian e-shopping sites. In this research paper the authors are assessing the maintenance of the same site by incorporating the problems incurred during this evaluation. This exercise gives a real world maintainability problem of web-sites. This work will give a clear picture of all the quality metrics which are directly or indirectly related with the maintainability of the web-site.
USEFul: A Framework to Mainstream Web Site Usability through Automated Evalua...Waqas Tariq
A paradox has been observed whereby web site usability is proven to be an essential element in a web site, yet at the same time there exist an abundance of web pages with poor usability. This discrepancy is the result of limitations that are currently preventing web developers in the commercial sector from producing usable web sites. In this paper we propose a framework whose objective is to alleviate this problem by automating certain aspects of the usability evaluation process. Mainstreaming comes as a result of automation, therefore enabling a non-expert in the field of usability to conduct the evaluation. This results in reducing the costs associated with such evaluation. Additionally, the framework allows the flexibility of adding, modifying or deleting guidelines without altering the code that references them since the guidelines and the code are two separate components. A comparison of the evaluation results carried out using the framework against published evaluations of web sites carried out by web site usability professionals reveals that the framework is able to automatically identify the majority of usability violations. Due to the consistency with which it evaluates, it identified additional guideline-related violations that were not identified by the human evaluators.
Robot Arm Utilized Having Meal Support System Based on Computer Input by Huma...Waqas Tariq
A robot arm utilized having meal support system based on computer input by human eyes only is proposed. The proposed system is developed for handicap/disabled persons as well as elderly persons and tested with able persons with several shapes and size of eyes under a variety of illumination conditions. The test results with normal persons show the proposed system does work well for selection of the desired foods and for retrieve the foods as appropriate as usersf requirements. It is found that the proposed system is 21% much faster than the manually controlled robotics.
Dynamic Construction of Telugu Speech Corpus for Voice Enabled Text EditorWaqas Tariq
In recent decades speech interactive systems have gained increasing importance. Performance of an ASR system mainly depends on the availability of large corpus of speech. The conventional method of building a large vocabulary speech recognizer for any language uses a top-down approach to speech. This approach requires large speech corpus with sentence or phoneme level transcription of the speech utterances. The transcriptions must also include different speech order so that the recognizer can build models for all the sounds present. But, for Telugu language, because of its complex nature, a very large, well annotated speech database is very difficult to build. It is very difficult, if not impossible, to cover all the words of any Indian language, where each word may have thousands and millions of word forms. A significant part of grammar that is handled by syntax in English (and other similar languages) is handled within morphology in Telugu. Phrases including several words (that is, tokens) in English would be mapped on to a single word in Telugu.Telugu language is phonetic in nature in addition to rich in morphology. That is why the speech technology developed for English cannot be applied to Telugu language. This paper highlights the work carried out in an attempt to build a voice enabled text editor with capability of automatic term suggestion. Main claim of the paper is the recognition enhancement process developed by us for suitability of highly inflecting, rich morphological languages. This method results in increased speech recognition accuracy with very much reduction in corpus size. It also adapts Telugu words to the database dynamically, resulting in growth of the corpus.
An Improved Approach for Word Ambiguity RemovalWaqas Tariq
Word ambiguity removal is a task of removing ambiguity from a word, i.e. correct sense of word is identified from ambiguous sentences. This paper describes a model that uses Part of Speech tagger and three categories for word sense disambiguation (WSD). Human Computer Interaction is very needful to improve interactions between users and computers. For this, the Supervised and Unsupervised methods are combined. The WSD algorithm is used to find the efficient and accurate sense of a word based on domain information. The accuracy of this work is evaluated with the aim of finding best suitable domain of word. Keywords: Human Computer Interaction, Supervised Training, Unsupervised Learning, Word Ambiguity, Word sense disambiguation
Parameters Optimization for Improving ASR Performance in Adverse Real World N...Waqas Tariq
From the existing research it has been observed that many techniques and methodologies are available for performing every step of Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) system, but the performance (Minimization of Word Error Recognition-WER and Maximization of Word Accuracy Rate- WAR) of the methodology is not dependent on the only technique applied in that method. The research work indicates that, performance mainly depends on the category of the noise, the level of the noise and the variable size of the window, frame, frame overlap etc is considered in the existing methods. The main aim of the work presented in this paper is to use variable size of parameters like window size, frame size and frame overlap percentage to observe the performance of algorithms for various categories of noise with different levels and also train the system for all size of parameters and category of real world noisy environment to improve the performance of the speech recognition system. This paper presents the results of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) and Accuracy test by applying variable size of parameters. It is observed that, it is really very hard to evaluate test results and decide parameter size for ASR performance improvement for its resultant optimization. Hence, this study further suggests the feasible and optimum parameter size using Fuzzy Inference System (FIS) for enhancing resultant accuracy in adverse real world noisy environmental conditions. This work will be helpful to give discriminative training of ubiquitous ASR system for better Human Computer Interaction (HCI). Keywords: ASR Performance, ASR Parameters Optimization, Multi-Environmental Training, Fuzzy Inference System for ASR, ubiquitous ASR system, Human Computer Interaction (HCI)
How to Manage Your Lost Opportunities in Odoo 17 CRMCeline George
Odoo 17 CRM allows us to track why we lose sales opportunities with "Lost Reasons." This helps analyze our sales process and identify areas for improvement. Here's how to configure lost reasons in Odoo 17 CRM
How to Build a Module in Odoo 17 Using the Scaffold MethodCeline George
Odoo provides an option for creating a module by using a single line command. By using this command the user can make a whole structure of a module. It is very easy for a beginner to make a module. There is no need to make each file manually. This slide will show how to create a module using the scaffold method.
Assessment and Planning in Educational technology.pptxKavitha Krishnan
In an education system, it is understood that assessment is only for the students, but on the other hand, the Assessment of teachers is also an important aspect of the education system that ensures teachers are providing high-quality instruction to students. The assessment process can be used to provide feedback and support for professional development, to inform decisions about teacher retention or promotion, or to evaluate teacher effectiveness for accountability purposes.
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Rapid Prediction of Extractives and Polyphenolic Contents in Pinus caribaea Bark Using Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy
1. N.S.A Derkyi, B. Adu-Amankwa, D. Sekyere & N.A. Darkwa
International Journal of Applied Sciences (IJAS), Volume (2) : Issue (1) : 2011 1
Rapid Prediction of Extractives and Polyphenolic Contents in Pinus
caribaea Bark Using Near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy
Nana Sarfo Agyemang Derkyi dertch@csir-forig.org.gh
Forest Products and Marketing Division
CSIR-Forestry Research Institute of Ghana
Kumasi, Ghana
Benjamin Adu-Amankwa aduamankwa@yahoo.com
Chemical Engineering Department
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Kumasi, Ghana
Daniel Sekyere dsekyere@csir-forig.org.gh
Wood Industry Development and Trade Division
CSIR-Forestry Research Institute of Ghana
Kumasi, Ghana
Nicholas Albert Darkwa nicdarkwa@yahoo.com
Renewable Natural Resources Faculty
Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
Kumasi, Ghana
Abstract
The potential of near infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) for rapidly and accurately determining the
extractives and polyphenol contents in Pinus caribaea bark extracts was assessed. Pinus caribaea bark
samples were obtained from 110 trees in plantation stands at different locations of Ghana and were then
scanned by NIRS. Their extractives and polyphenol contents reference values were obtained by TAPPI
T204 om-88 and Folin-Ciocalteu methods respectively. These reference values were regressed against
different spectral transformations using partial least square (PLS) regression. First derivative
transformation equation of the raw spectral data, resulted in a coefficient of determination r2 in the
external validation of 0.91 and 0.97 respectively for extractives content and polyphenol content. The
calibration samples covered a wide range of extractives content from 34 – 45% and polyphenolic content
from 16 – 23.5%. The standard deviation to root mean square error of cross validation ratio
(SD/RMSECV), root mean square error of calibration to standard deviation ratio (RMSEC/SD),
RMSECV/RMSEC and r2 for both extractives and polyphenol models were indicative of good prediction
equations. The predicted values were thus highly correlated with time-consuming wet chemical measured
values of extractives content and polyphenol content. The use of NIRS for the determination of the
extractives and polyphenol contents in Pinus caribaea bark thus provides an advantage of time saving
and cost of analysis.
Keywords: Folin-Ciocalteu Assay, Chemometric Modeling, Soxhlet Extraction, First Derivative,
Spectroscopy
1. INTRODUCTION
Polyphenolic and extractives contents are very important for most wood utilization. In the adhesive
industry, the polyphenolic and extractives contents affect product quality, process and production costs.
Nevertheless, there is no established on-line method suitable for the determination of polyphenolic and
extractives contents in the raw material, wood bark. Near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) combined with
chemometrics might offer such applications.
2. N.S.A Derkyi, B. Adu-Amankwa, D. Sekyere & N.A. Darkwa
International Journal of Applied Sciences (IJAS), Volume (2) : Issue (1) : 2011 2
Pinus caribaea is a plantation softwood species for wood production in Ghana. Extractives from P.
caribaea bark have been studied in relation to wood adhesives production. These studies have revealed
that P. caribaea bark contains significant amounts of polyphenols which can be useful as a basis for
waterproof and durable wood adhesives when reacted with formaldehyde [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8].
An alternative to wet chemical analysis of wood bark is NIRS. Absorption bands relating to many
chemical bonds, such as: C–H, N–H, O–H, S–H, C=O and C=C, are found in the NIR region, from 780 to
2500 nm. The NIR spectrum shows overtone and combination bands of these groups. Unfortunately, the
absorption bands in the NIR region are broad and overlap, which means that conventional univariate
calibration techniques, using only one wavelength per component for evaluations, cannot be applied in
cases of overlapping bands. The development of more sophisticated statistical tools, like the most widely
used partial least square (PLS) regression multivariate method for analysis, gave the possibility for the
broad application of NIR spectroscopy to many analytical laboratories. NIR spectroscopy offers a number
of advantages for qualitative and quantitative analysis and process control applications, such as: no
sample preparation, no waste, reduced costs, fast measurements and analysis, fiber optics for remote
measurements, high analysis accuracy and ease of use.
With the near-infrared reflectance technique, the sample to be analyzed is subjected to NIR radiation; the
sample absorbs part of the energy, while the rest is dispersed in all directions. The dispersed light gives
information about the composition of the test sample and the resulting spectrum is used in qualitative and
quantitative analysis. The best frequency intervals are in the region of the spectrum in which the reflected
light intensity best correlates with the concentrations of the analyzed chemical species.
Mathematical modeling using data obtained from wet chemical methods and spectra information can be
performed using classical least squares, multiple linear regression, principal component regression, and
partial least squares. The latter has the versatility to predict more than one variable, because a non-
iterative PLS algorithm is used to calculate model parameters [9]. This advantage has made PLS used
extensively for NIRS applications in wood samples [10,11,12].
There is a broad range of analytical applications of NIRS in the agricultural, food, petrochemical polymer
and textile industries [13,14,15]. This technology is also being used to an increasing extent in the forest
and wood sectors. For wood products, NIRS is mainly used for rapid prediction of pulp yield and pulping
characteristics [11,16,17]. NIRS technology is now being developed and calibrated to replace classical
wet chemical methods for wood applications.
One of the main problems affecting the utilization of bark tannins in the manufacture of bio-adhesives is
that the raw material (bark) each time has to be analysed for its chemical constituents in order to use it
appropriately. However, the classical chemical methods of analysis are tedious, time-consuming and
costly. The aim of this study therefore was to investigate whether NIRS could be used to rapidly and
accurately predict polyphenolic content and extractives content of P. caribaea bark.
2. MATERIALS AND METHODS
2.1 Materials
Pinus caribaea bark, obtained from 110 trees in plantation stands at the moist and dry semi-deciduous
forest zones of Ghana, were dried at 40°C for 48 h in a convection oven, ground in a Wiley mill to 100 -
250 µm particle size, sealed in a plastic bag, and stored at room temperature until use. The samples were
milled to effect solvent extractions. All chemicals used were of analytical grade, obtained from commercial
suppliers.
2.2 Chemical Analysis
For each of the 110 trees, 20 g of the dried powdered bark sample was extracted using a soxhlet
extractor. Extractions were carried out successively with 60% aqueous acetone and 70% aqueous
ethanol for three hours each. Extractive contents were determined gravimetrically according to TAPPI
T204 om-88 [18]. The total extractives content was calculated by summing the acetone extractives and
ethanol extractives contents. All samples were analyzed in duplicate.
3. N.S.A Derkyi, B. Adu-Amankwa, D. Sekyere & N.A. Darkwa
International Journal of Applied Sciences (IJAS), Volume (2) : Issue (1) : 2011 3
The phenolic content was determined in the acetone and the ethanol extracts by means of a modified
Folin-Ciocalteu assay [19]. For each extract, 0.5ml was put in a test tube and 0.5 ml distilled water added.
0.5ml of Folin-Ciocalteu reagent was added followed by 2.5 ml 20% Na2CO3 solution. The tube was
vortexed and the absorbance at 765 nm taken after 60 min on a Beckman DU 650 UV-VIS
spectrophotometer. The amount of total extractable phenolics as gallic acid equivalent was calculated
from a calibration curve using standard gallic acid solution, and expressed on a dry matter basis. All
samples were run in duplicate.
2.3 Near Infrared Spectra Aquisition
Each of the 110 powdered un-extracted bark samples was placed in a NIRSystem micro sample cup.
Near-infrared (NIR) spectra were recorded on a Bruker FT-IR spectrometer to measure diffuse reflected
light in the range 800 to 2,600 nm from the sample held in the spinning sample holder. Sixty four scans
were accumulated for the sample with a spectral resolution of 8 cm-1
and the results averaged. After the
spectrum had been obtained, the sample cup was emptied, repacked with the next sample and the
spectrum obtained. The background was taken with a sintered gold reference standard.
2.4 Calibration Modeling
Chemometric modelling was performed with the OPUS software package (version 5.5). For pre-
processing, the algorithms of full multiplicative scatter correction, first derivative (smoothed and derived
according to Savitzky and Golay [20]), straight line subtraction and standard normal variate among others
were applied. Wavelength selection was done manually as well as automatically by means of the Martens
Uncertainty test [21], to eliminate unimportant variables to simplify the models and make them more
reliable.
Calibrations were developed (based on NIR spectra and wet chemical analysis of polyphenol content and
extractives content) using partial least squares (PLS) regression after principal component analysis (PCA)
had been performed on the global samples spectra which was also done after checking on the normal
distribution of the samples. Calibrations were tested by full cross-validation and predicted extractives
content and polyphenol content were compared to measured ones. The root mean square error was
calculated for the calibration samples and for the predicted samples.
3. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS
A statistical summary of the polyphenolic content and extractives content of P. caribaea bark determined
through wet chemical analysis is given in Table 1. A meaningful interpretation of calibration results
depends to a large extent on the accuracy and precision of the wet chemical analysis of the samples. The
extractives content of P. caribaea bark varied from 34% to 45%, with a mean and standard deviation of
39.4% and 2.42% respectively. The measured extractives content (N=110) were fairly normally distributed
around the mean. Similarly, the polyphenol content of P. caribaea bark varied from 16% to 23.5% with a
mean and standard deviation of 19.69% and 1.18% respectively. The measured polyphenol content
(N=110) were also fairly normally distributed around the mean. The values determined for both
extractives content and polyphenol content of the samples covered a large enough range, which was
helpful for developing good models.
Parameter (%) N Range Mean Standard deviation
Extractives content
Polyphenol content
110
110
34 – 45
16 – 23.5
39.4
19.69
2.42
1.18
TABLE 1: Descriptive statistics for extractives content and phenolic content of bark samples.
N: total number of samples statistically analysed.
The NIR diffuse reflectance spectra of P. caribaea bark samples (Fig. 1) demonstrated a high degree of
variation, with wavelengths in the regions 7500 – 6200 cm
-1
and 5500 – 4500 cm
-1
showing the greatest
variability. Bands in the region 6170 – 5800 cm-1
results from the first overtone of C – H stretch, while
4. N.S.A Derkyi, B. Adu-Amankwa, D. Sekyere & N.A. Darkwa
International Journal of Applied Sciences (IJAS), Volume (2) : Issue (1) : 2011 4
bands in the region 4760 – 4350 cm-1
mainly results from C – H, N – H and O – H combination bands
[13,22]. Some of the compounds that have been noted have been assigned to specific wood components
that are also present in bark. The band at 4760 cm has been assigned to cellulose [23] and starch [22]
and the bands at 6000 and 5930 cm-1
have been assigned to lignin [22,24]. Michell and Schimleck [25] in
a study of Eucalyptus Globulus Labill. Woods, noted that the bands at 5995, 4800 and 4690 cm-1
were all
very well correlated with extractives and lignin content.
4000600080001000012000
Wavenumber cm-1
0.20.40.60.81.01.21.41.61.8
AbsorbanceUnits
FIGURE 1: Near infrared diffused reflectance spectra of P. caribaea bark.
The optimal method of spectra processing (constant offset elimination, vector normalization, straight line
subtraction, min-max normalization, multiplicative scatter correction, internal standard, first derivative and
second derivative etc.) depends on the system studied. In this study, first derivative spectra processing
with 15 point filter and second order polynomial at two frequency ranges (7500 – 6200 cm
-1
and 5500 –
4500 cm-1
) with the best positive correlation between the changes in the spectra and measured
extractives and polyphenol contents data were chosen by the PLS algorithm (Fig. 2) to give the best
results for the PLS calibration model. The best positive correlation between the changes in the spectra
and measured data are in the frequency ranges with maximal absorption and the largest value for the
correlation coefficient r
2
.
5. N.S.A Derkyi, B. Adu-Amankwa, D. Sekyere & N.A. Darkwa
International Journal of Applied Sciences (IJAS), Volume (2) : Issue (1) : 2011 5
4500500055006000650070007500
-0.0030-0.0020-0.00100.0000
AbsorbanceUnits
Wavenumber cm-1
FIGURE 2: First derivative spectra of P. caribaea bark in selected wavelength region.
In an evaluation of the methods for measuring phenolics, Yu and Dahlgren [26] suggested that the Folin-
Ciocalteu method which takes into account all hydroxyl aromatic compounds [27] provides a good test for
the characterization of extractable phenolics. Total polyphenol analysis is achieved by direct spectral
measurement at 280 nm or by Folin-Ciocaltreau colorimetry. Spectral analysis of phenolic compounds is
effective, but because the absorbance maxima of all polyphenols is not 280 nm, results are more difficult
to quantify. The Folin-Ciocalteu method is the reduction of metal oxides by polyphenols resulting in a blue
solution that has absorption maxima at 765 nm. Since different types of polyphenols react similarly with
the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, it is more easily quantifiable. However, the procedure is complicated and
time-consuming because some sample dilution and long incubation periods are required. The application
of NIRS combined with multivariate calibration can address sample preparation and analyses reducing
the time considerably.
The quality of the chemometric model depends on the choice of the correct number of factors (rank) used
for the model. Choosing too small a rank, results in underfitting so that not all features can be explained
by the model. On the other hand, including too many factors (rank too high) leads to overfitting and only
adds noise, and in fact degrades the model. As a consequence there is an optimum number of factors for
every system, i.e. an optimum rank. A criteria for determining the optimum rank is to look at the root mean
square error of cross validation resulting from an analysis of the cross validation. If the RMSECV is
depicted against the rank used in each model, a minimum can be observed in this graph, indicating the
optimum rank. In this study, the optimum rank for both models was 9 (Figure 3). The leave-one-out cross
validation method was used to calculate the prediction residual error sum of squares (which calculates
the lack of prediction accuracy) and to establish the number of PLS components for each model. A
number of PLS components that yields the lowest prediction residual error sum of squares is usually
chosen to establish a model [9]. In this study, a PLS component of 4 was found for each of the models
(Table 2). A lower PLS component improves the statistics of a model.
6. N.S.A Derkyi, B. Adu-Amankwa, D. Sekyere & N.A. Darkwa
International Journal of Applied Sciences (IJAS), Volume (2) : Issue (1) : 2011 6
a)
b)
FIGURE 3: RMSECV plotted against Rank for a) extractives content and b) polyphenol content.
Other criteria generally used to assess the quality of a model include the root mean square error of
calibration (RMSEC), root mean square error of cross validation (RMSECV) and the correlation coefficient
(r2
). A good model should have a low RMSEC, a low RMSECV and a high correlation coefficient (r2
)
between the predicted and measured values, but also a small difference between RMSEC and RMSECV.
The correlation coefficient r2
, the most commonly used, should be higher than 0.8 for quantitative
predictions. For excellent models, the RMSEC-to-SD ratio should be ≤ 0.2, where SD is the standard
deviation of the reference values. If 0.2 < RMSEC-to-SD ratio ≤ 0.5, quantitative predictions is possible
[28]. The SD-to-RMSECV ratio should be ≥2 [29,30], RMSECV-to-RMSEC ≤ 1.2 and the SD-to-RMSECV
ratio should be ≥ 2.5 [31]. The PLS regression calibrations developed for extractives content and
polyphenol content in this study are given in Table 2.
7. N.S.A Derkyi, B. Adu-Amankwa, D. Sekyere & N.A. Darkwa
International Journal of Applied Sciences (IJAS), Volume (2) : Issue (1) : 2011 7
Model N PLS
Comp
RMSEC RMSECV RMSEC/SD SD/RMSECV RMSECV/RMSEC R
2
EC (%)
PC (%)
110
110
04
04
0.65
0.21
0.72
0.23
0.26
0.17
3.36
5.13
1.10
1.09
0.91
0.96
TABLE 2. PLS regression calibration developed for extractives content (EC) and polyphenol content (PC).
Plots indicating the relationship between laboratory determined extractives and polyphenol contents and
their NIR fitted values are shown in Figures 4 and 5 respectively. Both plots show that over the range of
calibration sets the data were well fitted by the PLS regression. Gielinger et al. [32] have used NIR
spectroscopy to estimate total soluble extractives and phenolic contents from Larch heartwood, recording
good calibration models. Donkin and Pearce [33] have also used NIR spectroscopy to estimate total
soluble extractives from the bark of Acacia mearnsii reporting a correlation coefficient of 0.99. Their
calibration was developed using 11 factors, which could be considered excessive. Schimleck and Yazaki
[34] used NIR spectroscopy to estimate hot water extractives from the bark of P. radiata reporting a
correlation coefficient of 0.88. In this study, the two calibrations between extractives content and
polyphenol content and the spectral data were accurate with r2
= 0.91 and 0.96 and RMSECV = 0.72 and
0.23 respectively. In general, both models showed good predictive ability as can be observed in Figures 6
and 7 where true versus predicted data were plotted for models of extractives content and polyphenol
content respectively. For each model, the slope of the calibration curve was close to 1.0 indicating a good
calibration. However, the PLS model for polyphenol content showed a higher prediction performance than
that for extractives content, according to RMSECV/RMSEC, RMSEC/SD, SD/RMSECV and r
2
(Table 2).
Values obtained for RMSEC and RMSECV were close for each model, indicating that the introduction of
the given number of PLS components did not create an over-fitting effect and that the calibration model
was valid.
FIGURE 4: Correlation between true and NIRS fitted values for extractives content.
8. N.S.A Derkyi, B. Adu-Amankwa, D. Sekyere & N.A. Darkwa
International Journal of Applied Sciences (IJAS), Volume (2) : Issue (1) : 2011 8
FIGURE 5: Correlation between true and NIRS fitted values for polyphenol content.
FIGURE 6: True versus predicted values for model estimating extractives content.
9. N.S.A Derkyi, B. Adu-Amankwa, D. Sekyere & N.A. Darkwa
International Journal of Applied Sciences (IJAS), Volume (2) : Issue (1) : 2011 9
FIGURE 7: True versus predicted values for model estimating polyphenol content.
4. CONCLUSSION
As the use of natural adhesives becomes more common, the need has arisen for an analytical method
capable of rapidly and noninvasively assessing phenolic content in wood biomass. This study has
demonstrated the high reliability of NIRS in determining extractives and polyphenolic contents in P.
caribaea bark. These compounds have great significance in adhesives formulation, and the availability of
NIRS to measure them may help adhesive technologist to develop improved adhesives through rapid,
cost-effective and nondestructive NIRS analysis. By means of multivariate calibration techniques (PLS),
relationships were established between reflectance spectra and extractives content and polyphenol
content of Pinus caribaea bark. The first derivative spectra with PLS were found to provide the best
predictions for the extractives and polyphenol contents of Pinus caribaea bark with a RMSECV of 0.72
and 0.23 and coefficient of determination (r2
) of 0.91 and 0.96 respectively. The non-destructive FT-NIR
measurements thus provided good estimation of the extractives content and polyphenol content of Pinus
caribaea bark and could therefore be of practical importance.
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