We propose a general superstructure and a model for the global optimization for integrated process water networks. The superstructure consists of multiple sources of water, water-using processes, wastewater treatment, and pre-treatment operations. Unique features are that all feasible interconnections are considered between them and multiple sources of water can be used. The proposed model is formulated as a nonlinear programing (NLP) and as a mixed integer nonlinear programing (MINLP) problem for the case when 0–1 variables are included for the cost of piping and to establish optimal trade-offs between cost and network complexity. To effectively solve the NLP and MINLP models to global optimality we propose tight bounds on the variables, which are expressed as general equations. We also incorporate the cut proposed by Karuppiah and Grossmann to significantly improve the strength of the lower bound for the global optimum. The proposed model is tested on several examples. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011

Recently, broadband analog network coding (ANC) was introduced for high-speed transmission over the wireless (frequency-selective fading) channel. However, ANC requires the knowledge of channel state information (CSI) for self-information removal and coherent signal detection. In ANC, the users' pilot signals interfere during the first slot, which renders the relay unable to estimate CSIs of different users, and, consequently, four time-slot pilot-assisted channel estimation (CE) is required to avoid interference. Naturally, this will reduce the capacity of ANC scheme. In this paper, we theoretically analyze the bit error rate (BER) performance of bi-directional broadband ANC communication based on orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) radio access. We also theoretically analyze the performance of the channel estimator's mean square error (MSE). The analysis is based on the assumption of perfect timing and frequency synchronization. The achievable BER performance and the estimator's MSE for broadband ANC is evaluated by numerical and computer simulation. We discuss how, and by how much, the imperfect knowledge of CSI affects the BER performance of broadband ANC. It is shown that the CE scheme achieves a slightly higher BER in comparison with ideal CE case for a low and moderate mobile terminal speed in a frequency-selective fading channel.

We read with great interest the article by Vege et al published in issue 34 of World J Gastroenterol 2010. The article evaluates the ability of contrast-enhanced computerized tomography (CECT) to characterize the nature of peripancreatic collections found at surgery. The results of their study indicate that most of the peripancreatic collections seen on CECT in patients with severe acute pancreatitis who require operative intervention contain necrotic tissue and CECT has a limited role in differentiating various types of collections. However, there are some points that need to be addressed, including data about the stage of acute pancreatitis in which CECT was done and the time span between CECT examination and surgery.