Curtin University

About: Curtin University is a education organization based out in Perth, Western Australia, Australia. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Zircon. The organization has 14257 authors who have published 48997 publications receiving 1336531 citations. The organization is also known as: WAIT & Western Australian Institute of Technology.

Cobalt exchanged zeolites for heterogeneous catalytic oxidation of phenol in the presence of peroxymonosulphate

Abstract: Several cobalt ion-exchanged zeolite catalysts based on ZSM-5, zeolite-A, and zeolite-X were prepared and tested for heterogeneous oxidation of phenol in the presence of various oxidants such as H2O2, persulphate, and peroxymonosulphate. It is found that Co-ZSM-5 is highly effective in heterogeneous activation of peroxymonosulphate to produce sulphate radicals but exhibits low activity for the activation of H2O2 and persulphate for organic oxidation in water. Co-zeolite-A and Co-zeolite-X show much faster reaction rate in homogeneous activation of peroxymonosulphate due to decomposition of the catalysts and leaching of Co ions into aqueous solution. Co-ZSM-5 also presents stable performance in heterogeneous activation of peroxymonosulphate for phenol degradation. The phenol degradation depends on catalyst loading, phenol concentration, oxidant concentration and temperature. Kinetic studies indicate that phenol degradation follows zero-order kinetics with an activated energy of 69.7 kJ/mol.

Research Article. Fuzzy set theoretic approaches for handling imprecision in spatial analysis

Abstract: This paper presents methodologies for modelling imprecision in the definition, analysis and synthesis of two-dimensional features. The imprecision may arise through incomplete information, the presence of varying concentrations of attributes, or the use of qualitative descriptions of spatial features or their relationships. The work is intended to have applications in geographical information systems (GIS), but is equally applicable to other types of spatial information systems or spatial database applications. Fuzzy sets are used as a representational and reasoning device. The paper contains definitions of an imprecisely defined spatial feature or fuzzy region; definitions of distance and directional metrics between two such regions; a methodology for analysis of the spatial relationship between two regions; and a methodology for synthesis of new regions that are subject to the presence of imprecise spatial constraints.

The nature of learning and its implications for research on learning from museums

Abstract: The last decade has brought considerable progress in our understanding of how institutions like museums affect people's lives. However, there is still a great deal we do not know, and the research challenges ahead sometimes appear quite daunting. In this paper, we suggest that three characteristics of learning, its personal nature, that it is contextualized, and that it takes time, are critical to understanding and investigating the impact that museums have on people's lives. These characteristics have long been recognized, and we believe that recent research has emphasized their importance, but they are yet to be consistently well addressed in research. In the paper, each characteristic is elaborated and its implications for research examined. In particular, we argue that a search for a wider range of learning outcomes, the use of a wider range of research methods, and a greater consideration for, and recognition of, the significance of time are the principles for the future research agenda.

A Critical Review of Functional Capacity Evaluations

Abstract: The role of functional capacity evaluations (FCEs) appears to be increasing as employers and insurers rely more heavily on them for decision making. To meet credibility requirements, and the American Physical Therapy Association's standards for measurement and documentation, all FCE suppliers need to validate and refine their systems. This article provides information that can be used to make informed decisions in the selection of an FCE and in functional assessment practices. Features of well-designed FCEs are discussed. Ten well-known FCE systems are analyzed according to these features and other common characteristics. Current issues such as the qualifications of the evaluators, reliability and validity, length of assessments, projection of endurance to 8-hour workdays, standards of practice, safety protocols, and behavioral assessment and management strategies are discussed.