bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Bracing on Buckling Strength of Pultruded Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer Frames
Authors: Sirjani Mojtaba B. , Razzaq Zia
Published: February 2022

A numerical study of the influence of structural bracing on the buckling strength of pultruded Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer (GFRP) frames is presented. Although the influence of bracing on frames made from other materials such as steel have been studied in the past, this paper investigates the performance of pultruded GFRP portal frames with pinned or fixed column bases. Each frame is constructed with pultruded GFRP I-section members. The influence of I-section column major and minor axis orientation is also investigated. The results demonstrate the practical significance of bracing pultruded GFRP frames. The results show that the buckling loads for braced frames are seven to nine times greater than those for unbraced frames when the column bases are pinned. The corresponding gain in the buckling load capacity due to the addition of bracing is more than three times if the column bases are fixed.
Optimization of an Autonomous Hybrid Power System for an Academic Institution
Authors: Dodo Usman Alhaji , Ashigwuike Evans Chinemezu , Gafai Najashi Barau , Eronu Emmanuel Majiyebo , Sada Abdullahi Yusuf , Dodo Mustapha Alhaji
Published: February 2022

The epileptic power supply in Nigeria is enormously impeding universities’ administrative, academic, and research activities. The diesel generators on which most of these institutions rely as alternative power sources during grid failures are not viable solutions as the grid outage is incessant and the duration usually lasts for hours, at times for days. The effects of these are high running costs and increased environmental pollution. If normal activities in the universities are to continue unhindered and to reduce the health risks associated with the fossil-based generators, there is the need to explore other alternatives such as utilizing the environmentally-friendly, free and abundant renewable resources to meet their electricity demands. The present study uses Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER) to evaluate two different configurations of a stand-alone diesel generator (DG) system and a hybrid solar photovoltaic(PV)-diesel generator(DG)-battery energy storage (BES) system for sustainable power supply to the Baze University Abuja, Nigeria. The net present cost and levelized cost of energy, operating cost, and carbon dioxide emission of the hybrid PV-DG-BES system are lower by 50%, 30.93%, and 90% respectively when compared to the stand-alone DG system. Therefore, a hybrid solar PV-DG-BES system is a suitable technology to sustainably power the University.
5G Mobile Technologies and Early 6G Viewpoints
Authors: Petrov Ivan , Janevski Toni
Published: February 2022

Design of each successor mobile technology assures improved and advanced functionality features compared to its predecessor. Machine Learning and generally Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming necessity for further expansion of the beyond 5G mobile world. AI-assisted IoT services, data collection, analytics and storage should become native in the beyond 5G era. 5G introduces New Radio (NR) in sub-6 GHz bands and also in mmWave bands above 24 GHz, network virtualization and softwarization, which means that Next Generation Core and 5G NR access network are built by using different functions in split user and control planes that introduces the network slicing approach. Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), massive Machine Type Communication (mMTC) and Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC), that are provided via separate network slices as logically separated network partitions are the key 5G services that constantly will increase the traffic volume and the number of connected devices. Terahertz and visible light communication and fundamental technologies like compressed sensing theory, new channel coding, large-scale antenna, flexible spectrum usage, AI-based wireless communication, special technical features as Space-Air-Ground-Sea integrated communication and wireless tactile network are few of the novelties that are expected to become a common network standard available beyond 2030.
The Physical Properties and Geochemical of Clay from the Bestari Jaya, Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia for Potential Usage
Authors: Umor M. R. , Hussin A. , Muda N.
Published: February 2022

The study emphasis on physical properties and geochemical of the clays from Bestari Jaya area to determine its suitability for any commercial application. Nine samples collected from six boreholes as representative of white and dark clay in the study area. All samples examined through the optical properties test and physical properties such as moisture, specific gravity, Atterberg limit and particle size distributions. The geochemical and mineralogical conducted using XRF and XRD analysis. The clays from Bestari Jaya considered of having variation in the brightness from medium to high brightness as shown by Delta L value (51.32-73.49%). The moisture content ranges between 34.50-81.03%. The plasticity index (PI) and plasticity limit (PL) values found in ranges of 18-32% with an average of 22.22%, and 32-46% with an average of 37.11% respectively. The plasticity limit and index reveals that the Bestari Jaya clays can be classify as kaolinite clays that are suitable for pottery and brick making. The specific gravity ranges between 2.49 – 2.70 with an average of 2.61. The average value is similar to the value of pure china clay (2.6). The SiO2 content in Bestari Jaya clays is between 37.49 – 69.96 wt% and Al2O3 is between 18.92 – 33.02 wt%. While the L.O.I values are between 8.71-16.04%. Kaolinite as the dominant mineral phases in all clay samples with composition ranges from 65-97.7% and an average of 73.12%. Apart of that, quartz in ranges of 5.3 – 20.6%, identified in almost all samples. Muscovite, hematite and magnetite occur as accessory minerals. Referring to standard and result obtained on representative sample, the Bestari Jaya clays potentially used in the production of smaller tiles for unexclusive pedestrian traffic. The presence of significance amount of heavy metals makes it unsuitable to use in the pharmaceutical or paper industry.
Quantification by Powder X-ray Diffraction of Metal Oxides Segregation During Formation of Layered Double Hydroxides
Authors: Misol A. , Jiménez A. , Morato A. , Labajos F. M. , Rives V.
Published: February 2022

A simple, easily applicable method is proposed to quantify the amount of ZnO segregated during synthesis and post-synthesis treatments of Zn-Al layered double hydroxides with the hydrotalcite structure. The method provides a feasible, easy, fast, and reliable way to get values for ZnO content, and the method can be extended to other compounds.
The Effect of Nanoparticles in Single Lap Joints Studied by Numerical Analyses
Authors: Charitidis Panagiotis J.
Published: February 2022

The present study concerns with the finite element investigation of balanced aluminium single lap joints subjected to tensile loading. Epoxy adhesives were used for bonding having different nanoparticles rate in the epoxy resin (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and to 2 wt. %, respectively). Two-dimensional (2D) finite element analysis has been employed to determine the peeling stress, von Mises stress, and the shear strain distribution across the midplane of the joints. The results mainly prove that the nanoparticles rate in the adhesive material directly affects the joint tensile strength. Nanocomposite adhesives present a higher failure load than that of neat adhesives. Furthermore, nanocomposite adhesive with 0.5 wt. % of nanoparticles generated strengths (shear and peeling strengths) more than neat adhesives, after which decreased by further addition of the nanoparticles.
Experimental Investigation of a Prandtl Probe Fabricated Using Desktop Stereolithography Technology
Authors: Mwachugha Alfred Gift , Byiringiro Jean , Ngetha Harrison , Carolus Thomas , Stahl Kathrin
Published: February 2022

A Prandtl probe is one of the standard instruments used for flow characterization in wind tunnel facilities. The convectional fabrication method of this instrument requires skilled artisanship, precision drilling, lathing and soldering of its several parts. This reflects into high costs of production in turn making wind energy studies expensive. With the adoption of additive manufacturing, the tooling costs, skills required and design to manufacture constraints can be addressed. This research presents a Prandtl probe that was designed using NX™ software, fabricated by desktop stereolithography additive manufacturing platform and validated in a wind tunnel for velocity range of 0 m/s to 51 m/s. This research attested the option of fabricating relatively cheap functional Prandtl probe with desktop stereolithography technology which can be used for accurate determination of flow quality in wind tunnels experiments. This provides various learning and research institution in developing countries that have already invested in additive desktop manufacturing technology certainty and a cheaper option to fabricate wind research instruments for use at their laboratories. Moreover, fabrication and validation of a 5-hole Prandtl probe can also be examined.
Associations between Body Mass Index, Sleep Duration, and Reported Snoring and Sleepiness Symptoms, By Age Stratification
Authors: Lin David W. , Lin Weijie V.
Published: February 2022

To further clarify the associations between sleep and body mass index (BMI) using the most recent dataset from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Our study is notable for the inclusion of analyses with age subpopulations and subjective sleep symptoms. Cross-sectional study was performed using the NHANES 2017-18 dataset. Weighted multivariate regressions were utilized. NHANES is a standardized survey conducted biennially in the United States, for a sample population which is weighted to represent national demographics. 6161 participants met inclusion criteria. Measurements were collected via NHANES protocol, with objective measurements collected by trained technicians and self-reported measurements collected via questionnaire. Our results corroborate a roughly U-shaped relationship of sleep duration with BMI, varying with age. Greatest magnitudes were observed in a bimodal age ranges of 18-30 and 61-75, with decreases in BMI of 0.248 and 0.385 associated with each marginal hour of sleep. Our secondary analysis with daytime sleepiness and snoring have a significant association with BMI. Snoring symptoms showed a decreasing magnitude of association with BMI as age increases; for ages 18-30, snoring at least once a week correlated with an increase in BMI of 3.571, while for ages 61-75, this correlated with an increase of 1.619. Our study adds to existing literature on the relationship of sleep and BMI. Age stratification methods were used to further clarify associations. Subjective sleep symptoms were used in a secondary analysis to identify clinical screening questions for adverse effects of sleep on BMI.
Design and Construction of a Double Pipe Heat Exchanger for Laboratory Application
Authors: Ebieto C. E. , Ana R. R. , Nyong O. E. , Saturday E. G.
Published: February 2022

Engineering education is incomplete without laboratory practices. One of such laboratory equipment necessary for all engineering students to have hands-on in the course of their undergraduate studies is the heat exchanger. This work presents the detailed design and construction of a laboratory type double pipe heat exchanger that can be used both in the parallel and counter flow configuration. The heat exchanger was constructed using galvanized steel for both the tube and shell. Experiments were designed and carried out to test the performance of the heat exchangers. The heat exchanger performance characteristics (logarithm mean temperature difference (LMTD), heat transfer rate, effectiveness, and overall heat transfer coefficient) were obtained and compared for the two configurations. The LMTD tends to be relatively constant as the flow rate was increased for both the parallel and counter-flow configuration but with a higher value for the parallel flow configuration. The heat exchanger has a higher heat transfer rate, effectiveness, and overall heat transfer coefficient and therefore has more performance capability for the counter-flow configuration. The overall heat transfer coefficient increased as the flow rate increased for both configurations. Importantly, as a result of this project, Mechanical Engineering students can now have hands-on laboratory experience on how the double pipe heat exchanger works.
Preliminary Re-design of an Axial Turbine in an Existing Engine to Meet the Increased Load Demand
Authors: Agbadede Roupa , Uwakwe Dennis , Allison Isaiah
Published: February 2022

This work presents a preliminary design of an axial turbine section in an industrial gas turbine. The design was necessitated following the need to provide a gas turbine of a power output in the range of 48 to 60MW for a mini-city harbouring an oil rig, which was not possible with the old engine. The turbine section is designed to produce a power capable of driving the compressor as well as produce a useful power for electricity. Using proprietary gas turbine performance simulation software called TURBOMATCH and a computer program written in Microsoft Excel, a redesign of the axial turbine component was achieved. Consequent upon redesigning the axial turbine, a preliminary analysis was carried out to ascertain the new turbine stages introduced. The analysis revealed that when one or two turbine stage(s) was used for new engine, it proved unsatisfactory as the blade loading coefficient and the flow efficiency were both beyond the limit acceptable for an optimum performance. A three stage turbine was finally employed having provided a loading coefficient of 2.1, 1.9 and 1.7 for the first, second and the last stages respectively.
Dynamic Analysis of Encastre Beams by Modification of the System’s Stiffness Distribution
Authors: Okonkwo V. O. , Aginam C. H. , Nwaiwu C. M. O.
Published: February 2022

Numerical and energy methods are used to dynamically analyze beams and complex structures. Hamilton’s principle gives exact results but cannot be easily applied in frames and complex structures. Lagrange’s equations can easily be applied in complex structures by lumping the continuous masses at selected nodes. However, this would alter the mass distribution of the system, thus introducing errors in the results of the dynamic analysis. This error can be corrected by making a corresponding modification in the systems’ stiffness matrix. This was achieved by simulating a beam with uniformly distributed mass with the force equilibrium equations. The lumped mass structures were simulated with the equations of motion. The continuous systems were analyzed using the Hamilton’s principle and the vector of nodal forces {P} causing vibration obtained. The nodal forces and displacements were then substituted into the equations of motion to obtain the modified stiffness values as functions of a set of stiffness modification factors. When the stiffness distribution of the system was modified by means of these stiffness modification factors, it was possible to predict accurately the natural fundamental frequencies of the lumped mass encastre beam irrespective of the position or number of lumped masses.
Design Analysis of a Portable Manual Tyre Changer
Authors: Wofuru-Nyenke Ovundah King
Published: February 2022

In this paper, an efficient, affordable, and portable manual automobile tyre changing tool was designed. The tool operates on the principle of second-class levers, where the load to be overcome is situated between the fulcrum and the effort point. The mechanical advantage (MA) of the bead breaker arm and pry bar assembly of the tool was determined to be 11.5. The standard tube size of the bead breaker arm that can withstand stress due to bending moment was determined to be a 2” (50mm) diameter Schedule 80 steel tube. Also, the dimensions of the standard hexagonal bolts to be used at the fulcrum and load point of the bead breaker arm are M12 × 1.5 × 75 mm, while the standard size of hexagonal nuts to be used with the bolts is M12 × 1.5 mm with a height of 10mm. Moreover, the mechanical advantage (MA) of the mount/demount arm and pry bar assembly of the tool was determined to be 5.22. Also, by comparing the angles of twist of two sizes of the mount/demount arm when the tool is used in mounting or demounting a tyre on a 16” × 7” wheel rim, the standard size of the mount/demount arm that can withstand stresses due to bending moment and torsional moment was determined to be a 60mm × 60mm × 5mm square tube. The cost of materials needed to fabricate the tyre changer summed up to ?21,000. Ergo, the design provides an alternative portable and relatively affordable tyre changing tool that can be afforded by tyre technicians across Nigeria, and other developing or underdeveloped countries.
Maintenance Management Regime for Off-Grid Solar PV Renewable Energy System in Nigeria
Authors: Adetona Zacchaeus A. , Ogunyemi Joel , Bitrus Irmiya
Published: February 2022

The perennial inadequate power supply problem in Nigeria, the worldwide call for green energy and the unavailability of grid electrical supply or difficulty in accessing it have created a need for the adoption of renewable energy such as solar PV systems. PV systems have a lifespan ranging from 10 to 25 years if well maintained but it has been observed that PV systems do not last up to their useful lifespan in Nigeria. A preliminary survey carried out showed that 71.2% of sample did not carry out any maintenance on their PV installations, 85.7% agreed that a lack of maintenance was responsible for their nonfunctional PV systems and 95% of the respondents agreed that there was a lack of maintenance on PV installations in Nigeria. A maintenance regime was developed for PV systems whereby a maintenance personnel is appointed to carry out routine or breakdown maintenance on solar panels, charge controller, battery, inverter, and cabling. The regime starts with turning off power coming from the solar panels. The maintenance of the solar panels follows; next is maintenance on all cable wiring and terminations. After all cable terminations have been checked, the battery maintenance follows. The charge controller is then checked for maintenance and subsequently, power from solar panels can be switched on to restore charging. Two protective installations were recommended in the maintenance regime namely the installation of earthing and DC circuit breakers to protect the solar system installation.
Maximally Flat IIR Fullband Differentiators with Flat Group Delay Responses
Authors: Ilić Slavisa , Mohammed Salih Ahmad , Hamid Abdullah Majid , Milić Dragiša
Published: February 2022

A new design method for maximally flat IIR fullband differentiators with flat group delay responses is derived in this paper. The design method starts from the flatness conditions of magnitude response and group delay response at the origin. After mathematical manipulations it shows that presented design method reduces to solving the system of linear equations. By increasing the orders of polynomials in numerator and denominator, degrees of flatness are increased, that is improvement in magnitude responses and group delay responses in terms of flatness is obtained.
Electrochemical Evaluation of Chrysin Flavonoid as Corrosion Inhibitor for Mild Steel in Sulphuric Acid Solution
Authors: Díaz M. Y. , Valladares M. G. , Menchaca E. C. , Uruchurtu J.
Published: February 2022

Recently research is focused on natural organic compounds as metallic corrosion inhibitors demonstrating good corrosion protection and efficiencies. Steel corrosion behavior in acid media was evaluated in the presence of a pure natural flavonoid metabolite named Chrysin present in different plants. The evaluation of corrosion protection was studied using polarization curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and electrochemical current density under potentiostatic conditions. Polarization curves present active dissolution and at high overpotentials two passivation regions were found. Slight corrosion protection was obtained from EIS measurements and potentiostatic curves at three different anodic potentials: -370, +216 and +600 mV, revealed a more stable passive film in the presence of Chrysin at both passive regions. High corrosion protection was obtained on the film formed at +600 mV during the first 4 hours of immersion.
Effects of Covid-19 on Crude Oil Price and Future Forecast Using a Model Application and Machine Learning
Authors: Amadi Azubuike H. , Ebube Orisa F. , Aire Silas I. , Marcus Chigoziri B.
Published: February 2022

Oil Price has been a benchmark governing the trade of oil and gas globally. It is fixed by producing countries or countries in a consortium through organizations such as Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) or a particular mix of crude oil such as the West Texas Intermediate (WTI) or Brent. The spot price and future prices of crude oil is basically determined by demand and supply, however, some external factors can have great influence on oil price. This research work will be emphasizing on the direct and indirect effects of the COVID-19 pandemic as an external factor other than demand and supply on the benchmarks of oil pricing between 2000 and 2020. Having analyzed the various oil price fluctuation which have been caused by several factors over the years, this research went further to identify those significant factors, weigh them and input them into a model that will generate simulated oil prices of past, present and future benchmarks with relation to demand, supply, production cost and other external factors. This model was also validated using machine learning algorithms and real data of previous yearly average oil price noting the reasons for each spot price. Significant recommendations were made on the use of this model for fixing oil price benchmarks as variables to each benchmark are numerous.
Comparing the Planck-Vacuum and Urantia-Book Depictions of the Seven-Dimensional Spacetime
Authors: Daywitt William C.
Published: February 2022

This paper compares the 7-dimensional spacetime of the Planck vacuum (PV) theory to that of the Urantia Book with its total cosmological viewpoint. Results show that, where the two genres overlap, there is a total agreement between the two. The concept of “circular simultaneity” is introduced into the PV-theory lexicon. The comparison leads to the conclusion that the circular simultaneity of the Urantia Book is directly related to the annihilation equations of the electron-positron and the proton-antiproton cores of the PV theory. Juxtaposing the two genres opens up a deeper understanding for both.

Appendix A introduces an aspect to mathematical modeling that is new and unique: in the present case, the Dirac cores and the PV state are now connected to a transcendental aspect of nature that far exceeds the scope of the particle-related PV model.
Multi-terrain Quadrupedal-wheeled Robot Mechanism: Design, Modeling, and Analysis
Authors: Gratton Eric , Benyeogor Mbadiwe , Nnoli Kosisochukwu , Olakanmi Oladayo , Wolf Liam , Berti Zavier , Kumar Sushant , Saha Piyal
Published: February 2022

For a robot to navigate in terrains of rough and uneven topographies, its drives and controllers must generate and control large mechanical power with great precision. This paper is aimed at developing an autonomous robot with active-suspensions in form of a hybrid quadrupedal-wheel drive mechanism. This involves a computational approach to optimizing the development cost without compromising the system’s performance. Using the Solidworks CAD tool, auxiliary components were designed and integrated with the bed structure to form an actively suspended robot drive mechanism. Also, using the S-Math Computing tool, the robot’s suspension system was optimized, employing a four-bar mechanism. To enhance the compatibility of this design with the intended controller, some mathematical equations and numerical validations were formulated and solved. These included the modeling of tip-over stability and skid steering, the trendline equations for computing the angular positions of the suspension servomotors, and the computation of R2– values for determining the accuracy of these trendline equations. Using finite element analysis (FEA), we simulated the structural integrity of key sub-components of the final structure. The results show that our mechanical design is appropriate for developing an actively suspended robot that can efficiently navigate in different terrestrial sites and topographies.
Design of Smart Hybrid Power Supply using Logic Circuits
Authors: Hassanein Ahmed M. D. E.
Published: February 2022

Production of electrical power from sources that depends on diesel produce large amounts of pollutants to the environment. Power sources that depend on renewable energy are becoming widely implemented to decrease the dependence on diesel oil. However, different electrical sources from renewable energies work at different weather conditions which make each not a fully independent solution. In this paper, we propose a design of a smart hybrid power supply system that mixes the output power of three sources of electricity which are solar panel, battery tank and the power grid. The system prioritizes the use of each source according to its availability and its environmental impact. The solar panel has the highest priority while the power grid has the lowest priority. A design that is based on logic gates is proposed and simulated using Simulink in Matlab. The simulation results agree with the theoretical expectations.
Effectiveness of Constructed Indoor Air Purifier to Enhance Indoor Air Quality
Authors: Kedare Vinit J. , Kharat Smruti S. , Tawde Sonal
Published: February 2022

Air pollution is one of the most concerned issue worldwide as it affects the population at a time. Indoor air contamination can be due to different forms of allergens, smoke, mold, radon, and other pollutants all negatively impact the health of building occupants. These pollutants can have severe effects on health of individuals up to 10 times worse than the outdoor air pollution due to lack of ventilation. For purification of air an attempt has been made to construct a purifier using filters that can trap the indoor air pollutants. The prepared model is constructed considering the cost and working efficiency for maintaining a healthy indoor environment. The model is based on the filtration of air through compact filters (HEPA filters) that are more efficient than any other filters. To analyze the indoor air quality and the working efficiency of the purifier, certain quantitative analysis of the air micro-flora and the total mass concentration of the indoor dust were conducted at four locations in the premises of B. K. Birla College (Autonomous), Kalyan. Quality of the indoor air before using the Constructed Indoor Air purifier and during the use of purifier was checked. The resulted data showed a decrease in the microbial population as well as reduction in the concentration of dust particles, thus indicating the working efficiency of the constructed purifier.
Seasonality and Software Vulnerabilities in Major Database Management Systems
Authors: Joh HyunChul
Published: February 2022

Popularity and marketshare are very important index for software users and vendors since more popular systems tend to engage better user experience and environments. periodical fluctuations in the popularity and marketshare could be vital factors when we estimate the potential risk analysis in target systems. Meanwhile, software vulnerabilities, in major relational database management systems, are detected every now and then. Today, all most every organizations depend on those database systems for store and retrieve their any kinds of informations for the reasons of security, effectiveness, etc. They have to manage and evaluate the level of risks created by the software vulnerabilities so that they could avoid potential losses before the security defects damage their reputations. Here, we examine the seasonal fluctuations with respect to the view of software security risks in the four major database systems, namely MySQL, MariaDB, Oracle Database and Microsoft SQL Server.
Effect of Turbine and Compressor Inlet Temperatures and Air Bleeding on the Comparative Performance of Simple and Combined Gas Turbine Unit
Authors: Salim Basharat , Orfi Jamal , Alaqel Shaker Saeed
Published: February 2022

The proper utilization of all the available forms of energy resources has become imminent to meet the power requirement and energy demand in both the developed and developing countries of the world. Even though the emphasis is given to the renewable resources in most parts of the world, but fossil fuels will still remain the main resources of energy as these can meet both normal and peak demands. Saudi Arab has number of power plant based on natural gas and fuel that are spread in all its regions. These power plants have aeroderivative gas turbine units supplied by General Electric Company as main power producing units. These units work on dual fuel systems. These units work as simple gas turbine units to meat peak demands and as part of combined cycle otherwise. The subject matter of this study is the performance of one of the units of a power plant situated near Riyadh city of Saudi Arab. This unit also works both as simple gas turbine unit and as a part of combined cycle power plant unit. A parametric based performance evaluation of the unit has been carried out to study both energetic and exergetic performance of the unit for both simple and combined cycle operation. Effect of compressor inlet temperature, turbine inlet temperature, pressure ratio of the compressor, the stage from which bleed off air have been taken and percentage of bleed off air from the compressor on the energetic and exergetic performance of the unit have been studied. The study reveals that all these parameters effect the performance of the unit in both modes of operation.
An Experimental Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Bonded Concrete
Authors: Tehrani F. M.
Published: February 2022

This paper presents an experimental study to measure mechanical properties of bonded concrete specimens. The bond between freshly mixed and hardened concrete has been a concern in repair and retrofit projects as well as staged construction of concrete members. This concern has roots in the time-dependent behavior of concrete, beginning with early-age concrete and continuing with long-term performance and durability of concrete. Moreover, environmental conditions generally complicate the behavior of concrete and resulted deformations such as shrinkage and creep. Application of chemical adhesives and epoxies is a common technique to enhance the bond at the interface of old and new concrete elements. The presented methodology includes preparation of bonded specimens with application of grout and adhesive agents. Mechanical strengths of specimens have been reported based on compressive, tensile, flexural, and shear testing. Results indicate that bonding agents are more effective in tensile and shear behavior of bonded samples.
A Decision Making in Selection of Bricks Using Multiple Attribute Decision Making Methods
Authors: Jain Satish Kumar
Published: February 2022

All building materials such as brick, cement, paint, lime, steel, glass, etc. of various brands with small variation in their specifications and cost are available in the markets of construction. It becomes very difficult for contractors, engineers, and owners to make right choice of materials logically to maintain good quality and minimum cost of the work. Improper choice may result in either bad quality or higher cost. Multiple Attribute Decision Making Methods are very helpful in selection of any material. These methods have been used largely in various fields of engineering for deciding best of available options. This paper presents an overview of Simple Additive Weighting Method (SAW), Weighted Product Method (WPM) and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methods which can be simply and successfully used for selection of bricks.
Primal-Dual Interior-Point Technique for Optimisation of 330kV Power System on One Variable
Authors: Obinwa Chiristian I. , Nwabueze C. A. , Mbachu C. B.
Published: February 2022

The work deal on a method for optimisation of 330KV power system load flow which excels other existing methods.This method is called, PRIMAL-DUAL INTERIOR-POINT TECHNIQUE for solving optimal load flow problem. As problems of load-shedding, power outages and system losses have been cause for worries, especially among the developing nations such as Nigeria, hence need for a load flow solution technique, which, this work addresses. Optimisation is achieving maximum of required and minimum of un-required and it is obtained mathematically by differentiating the objective function with respect to the control variable(s) and equating the resulting expression(s) to zero. In 330KV Power System, optimization is maximisation of real power injection, voltage magnitude and cost effectiveness, while minimization of reactive power injection, power loss, critical clearing time of fault conditions and time of load flow simulation.. This work developed a mathematical model that solves load flow problems by engaging non-negative PRIMAL variables, “S” and “z” into the inequality constraint of the load flow problems in other to transform it to equality constraint(s). Another non-negative DUAL variables “” and “v” are incorporated together with Lagrangian multiplier “?” to solve optimisation. While solving optimisation Barrier Parameter “” which ensures feasible point(s) exist(s) within the feasible region (INTERIOR POINT). Damping factor or step length parameter “?”, in conjunction with Safety factor “”  (which improves convergence and keeps the non-negative variables strictly positive) are employed to achieve result. The key-words which are capitalized joined to give this work its name, the PRIMAL-DUAL INTERIOR-POINT. The initial feasible point(s) is/are tested for convergence and where it/they fail(s), iteration starts. Variables are updated by using the computed step size  and the step length parameter “?”, which thereafter, undergo another convergence test. This technique usually converges after first iteration. Primarily, this technique excels the existing methods as; it solves load flow problems with equality and inequality constraints simultaneously, it often converges after first iteration as against six or more iterations of the existing methods, its solution provides higher power generations from available capacity and minimum system loss. Example, Geregu Power Station on Bus 12 generates 0.1786p.u power from the available 0.2000p.u through the PD-IP tech. as against 0.1200p.u of the existing methods. Also it supplies 0.1750p.u with loss of 0.0036p.u as against 0.0236p.u with loss of 0.0964p.u of the existing methods. This results in 90% generation as against 60% of existing methods. Generation loss is 1.8% as against 80.3% of existing methods and availability loss of 12.5% as against 88.2% of existing. Therefore this method ensures very high system stability.
Study on Particulate Emission Characteristics of Diesel Engine using a Mixture of Commercial Diesel and Biodiesel Based Palm-Oil
Authors: Pham Van Viet
Published: February 2022

Currently, oil and gas accounts for about 60 - 80% of the world's energy. According to scientists, with the current consumption rate, this source of energy will be exhausted in the next 40-50 years; Therefore, finding alternative energy sources has become the goal of many countries. In particular, the sources of energy friendly to the environment and renewable such as wind energy, solar energy, bioenergy ... are given top priority. Biodiesel is a liquid biofuel with similar properties and can be used as a substitute for conventional diesel oil. Testing and proceeding to apply B5 and B10 fuels to vehicles will reduce the amount of toxic emissions and replace exhausted petroleum and gas sources. This paper focuses on the KDE3500T engine test bed at 50% loading to analyze and assess the emission of particulate matter and oxidized organic compounds. With different mixing ratios between commercial gasoline of 0.05 S and palm oil biodiesel from 10% to 75%. Experimental results show that the particle emission concentration decreased by about 30% from B0 to B20 and increased by about 15% from B30 to B100. While carbonyl compounds such as formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and acetone increased about 2.5 times from B0 to B30 and dropped abruptly at B50, however carbonyl concentration increased by about 28% when using B75 to B100.
Study on Technical and PM Emission Characteristics on Diesel Engines using Biodiesel Based Palm Oil
Authors: Pham Van Viet
Published: February 2022

The transport industry is facing problems such as the exhaustion of fossil fuels and the threat of pollution from emissions from internal combustion engines. The use of alternative fuels is considered as one of the effective solutions to address the pressure on fuel prices and environmental pollution. Using biofuels is considered an emerging solution to ensure energy security in transportation and environment friendliness. Palm oil-based biodiesel is a relatively abundant fuel source and is compatible with traditional diesel engines with little change to the engine structure. The paper focuses on the possibility of using biodiesel derived from palm oil with the volume ratio of 5%, 10% and 15% on Vikyno EV2600 engine. Thereby, it will analyze and evaluate the technical features and emission level of the engine compared to traditional diesel fuel. In addition, this study is also worth the impact of the blend ratio of palm oil-based biofuel with diesel to the PM emission level of the test engine.
Characterizing Computation in Artificial Neural Networks by their Diclique Covers and Forman-Ricci Curvatures
Authors: Parks Allen D.
Published: February 2022

The relationships between the structural topology of artificial neural networks, their computational flow, and their performance is not well understood. Consequently, a unifying mathematical framework that describes computational performance in terms of their underlying structure does not exist. This paper makes a modest contribution to understanding the structure-computational flow relationship in artificial neural networks from the perspective of the dicliques that cover the structure of an artificial neural network and the Forman-Ricci curvature of an artificial neural network’s connections. Special diclique cover digraph representations of artificial neural networks useful for network analysis are introduced and it is shown that such covers generate semigroups that provide algebraic representations of neural network connectivity.
Analysis of Bending Stiffness and Strength of Glue Laminated Nigerian Timber
Authors: Okafor Kingsley Kenechukwu , Ezeagu Celestine Akaolisa
Published: February 2022

An analysis into the flexural strength of solid and laminated timber specimens under working conditions was conducted. Five hardwoods and five softwoods were investigated, namely: Mansonia, Mahogany, Orji, Ukpi, Ufi mmanu, White Afara, Owen, Melina, Akpu and Ubia. The dimensions of the wood specimens are 100mm×50mm×20mm. The wood samples were tested for flexural strength using a Universal Testing Tensile Machine. The results obtained shows that Owen has the highest ultimate wood strength of 46.806N/mm² for the softwood glulam. Ukpi has the highest wood strength of 73.375N/mm² for the hardwood glulam, and highest MOE at 2412.93N/mm². Akpu recorded the weakest sample with bending strength values for glulam at 11.929 N/mm². Comparisons of strength were made to their respective solid timbers. Failure modes were analyzed. The study therefore demonstrates that the timber species used can be engineered to load bearing glulam structural elements using polyurethane adhesive glue without severe loss of strength.
Study on Tensile Strengths of Randomly Oriented Coir/Plantain Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Polyester (CPFRP) Composites
Authors: Chukwunyelu Christian Ebele , Nwosu A. W. , Uzoghelu Innocent Tochukwu
Published: February 2022

This study focuses on determining the optimum tensile strengths of randomly oriented coir/plantain hybrid fiber reinforced polyester resin composites. The control factors of volume fraction, coupling agent and coir/plantain fiber ratio were used in forming the samples. Tensile test was conducted on the samples of Coir/plantain empty fruit bunch (CEFB) hybrid fibers and coir/plantain pseudo stem (CPS) hybrid fibers reinforced polyester resin composites respectively for the optimum tensile strengths. An OKH-600 Digital Display universal Testing Machine was used for conducting tensile tests in order to establish the control factor levels quality characteristics needed to optimize the mechanical properties being investigated. The highest signal-to-noise ratio (S/N ratio) for the quality characteristics was investigated by applying Taguchi robust design technique for the greater-the-better. The optimum values of the control factors were established for CEFB and CPS hybrid fibers reinforced polyester resin composites. The CEFB hybrid fibers reinforced polyester resin composites has the optimum tensile strength of while CPS hybrid fibers reinforced polyester resin composites has the optimum tensile strength of . The control factors contributed greatly to the tensile strength; and the CEFB hybrid fibers reinforced polyester resin composites are less in tension than that of CPS hybrid fiber.
Comparison of a Tannery that Using the Conventional Treatment of Waste Water and That Using the Recycling Method
Authors: Salman Rehab Ahmed , Gasmelseed G. A. , Hassan R. S.
Published: February 2022

The conventional treatment methods of tannery spent float is found to be not sufficient to meet the required international standers levels of liquid discharges on the other hand the establishment of the treatment unit for the physical, biological and chemical treatment of the spent float is found to be extremely high-cost process. During the life time of the tannery by using the recycling of the spent float method, there would be a great saving in the water and the chemicals as well as environment protection. The comparison of the capital cost estimates of two tanneries with the same capacity, one with the conventional treatment method (large treatment unit should be established) and the other used the recycling of the spent float process, show the advantages of using the recycling process over the conventional treatment process.
New Thermodynamics: Inefficiency of a Piston-Cylinder
Authors: Mayhew Kent W.
Published: February 2022

Inefficiencies of expanding systems are traditionally taught in terms of entropy, and the second law. Herein, it will be shown that such traditional explanations are an over-complication of reality. This will be accomplished by providing a simpler understanding as to why such inefficiencies exist in a piston-cylinder apparatus. This introduces many to a  new perspective which is founded on lost work, and the inherent inefficiencies when converting a gas’s kinetic energy into actual work.
Insert Switches Inside to Increase Battery Lifespan
Authors: Savard Christophe , Venet Pascal , Niel Eric , Pietrac Laurent , Sari Ali
Published: February 2022

This paper shows the possible gain on time before the end of useful time brought by switches addition in a multicell battery. In a first time, it presents a battery electric model. A battery includes many identical electrical energy cells that electrically interact. From a behavioral standpoint, cell performance is measured by fundamental parameters: State of Charge (SoC) and State of Health (SoH). To simulate cell electrical behavior, the Thevenin model or the Nernst model are often used. However, these models do not take into account the cells aging or the possible interactions on aging. A cell ages mainly in two ways: cyclic and calendar. This aging impacts both the elements of the equivalent electrical model and the fundamental parameters (SoC and SoH). Thus, the conventional electric model of a cell does not accurately reflect the cell aging. In this paper, another formal model based on the fundamental curve that relates electrical and behavioral parameters is proposed. It integrates aging into the equivalent electric model estimation. In a second time, in order to validate this model, this cell model is used to simulate parallel-series association. To improve battery lifespan, in addition to the usual balancing techniques, it may be relevant to require some traditional reliability and operating safety solutions. This requires to add switches inside battery. The presented simulation shows adding switches solution is currently not deployed. This is justified in this paper by examining the impact provide on lifespan improvement on an example, which is pretty weak. But it also shows that however, by managing active cells in a different way, adding switches and spare cells can really reach this improvement.
Computation of the Negative Damping Associated to the Hunting Motion of the Railway Wheelset, without Using Geometrical or Tribological Restrictions into the Model
Authors: Suciu Barenten
Published: February 2022

Recently, analytical expressions for the damped natural frequency and damping ratio were proposed for the so-called dynamical hunting, either by assuming that the wheel conicity can be neglected, or by imposing restrictions on the ratio between the lateral and longitudinal creep coefficients, and also, on the ratio of the track span to the yawing diameter. However, instead of a pair of complex conjugate roots, and two real roots, of opposite sign, two pairs of complex conjugate roots were obtained for the characteristic equation. Purpose of this work is to achieve accurate expressions for the damping associated to the hunting motion, without imposing geometrical or tribological limitations into the vibration model, and to evaluate the error on the damping ratio, introduced by the simplified models. Also, nature of the roots of the characteristic equation is discussed, relative to the critical speed of the railway vehicle.
Optimizing Deep Convolutional Neural Network for Facial Expression Recognition
Authors: Chavan Umesh B. , Kulkarni Dinesh
Published: February 2022

Facial expression recognition (FER) systems have attracted much research interest in the area of Machine Learning. We designed a large, deep convolutional neural network to classify 40,000 images in the data-set into one of seven categories (disgust, fear, happy, angry, sad, neutral, surprise). In this project, we have designed deep learning Convolution Neural Network (CNN) for facial expression recognition and developed model in Theano and Caffe for training process. The proposed architecture achieves 61% accuracy. This work presents results of accelerated implementation of the CNN with graphic processing units (GPUs). Optimizing Deep CNN is to reduce training time for system.