bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial-Temporal Evolution Characteristics and Influencing Factors of the China-Black Sea Economic Cooperation Trade
Authors: Liu Shuguang , Feng Xiaoshu
Published: January 2020

ArcGIS was used to analyze the spatial-temporal evolution characteristics of trade between China and Black Sea Economic Cooperation (BSEC). From 2006 to 2017, the panel data of China and BSEC were used to construct gravity model to analyze trade-influencing factors. The analysis shows that, (1) there are obvious differences in the spatial distribution of trade within the organization. The trade volume of Russia, Turkey and Ukraine is relatively large, but it is affected by geopolitical and social stability. (2) China’s trade with the BSEC countries has been increasing year by year, with obvious spatial differences. Its trade with Russia, Ukraine and Turkey accounts for 87.1% of the total, but its trade with other countries is growing at a considerable rate. (3) There are significant differences in the spatial distribution of the annual trade dependence between China and BESC. China has the highest trade dependence with Albania and Russia, and the weakest trade dependence with Moldova and Serbia. (4) Geographical distance, GDP of each country, consumer price index, degree of openness and absolute difference of GDP per capital between China and BSEC member countries are the main factors affecting the trade between China and BSEC.
An Algorithm to Generate Random Points in Polygon Based on Triangulation
Authors: Xu Zhimin , Zhang Li , Ma Rui
Published: January 2020

Random point generation plays an important role in assisting random sampling and is widely used in various disciplines. This paper proposes a new algorithm to generate random points in polygon based on Triangulation. Firstly, the polygons are triangulated, and then the number of random points in each triangle is allocated according to the triangle area. Finally, the given number of random points is generated inside the triangle. In the experiment, the results showed that the proposed algorithm is 20 times faster than the algorithm in QGIS software on average. And with the increase of the complexity of the polygon, the advantages of this algorithm are more obvious.
Classification of GSM-R Network Operation Quality Evaluation Indicators Based on WDFCE Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Hang , Peng Chaiyang , Ma Liangde , Zhao Yunru , Liu Qing
Published: January 2020

This paper proposed a fuzzy clustering ensemble algorithm based on membership weighting and distance decision (WDFCE) and defined a method for determining the boundary threshold of indicators’ grade intervals. Base clusters and corresponding membership matrices were obtained by multiple fuzzy C-means (FCM) algorithm. Considering the reliability of each base cluster, the decision weighting method was introduced to weight the membership matrix and construct the cumulative distance matrix. The Density Peaks (DP) algorithm was used for clustering ensemble to obtain the final result. By defining the boundary zone, the boundary zone class density and the threshold possibility, the clustering result was combined to determine the grade interval of the indicators. In order to judge the advantages and disadvantages of the improved algorithm, the S_Dbw index with the best evaluation effect was selected from the various cluster validity evaluation indicators studied by domestic and foreign scholars. The results of the indicator S_Dbw for evaluating cluster validity indicated that the improved method we proposed is superior to the general clustering ensemble algorithm and it solved the problem of determining the boundary threshold of the indicator grade interval in the GSM-R evaluation system.
Research on the Development and Protection of Rural Culture from the Perspective of Multiple Plan- Take Panjia fen “Harmonious Family” Eco-Resort in Beijing Suburb as an Example
Authors: Gai Luofan , An Yonggang , Huo Pengfei , Zhang Ligsheng
Published: January 2020

In the process of implementing the strategy of rural revitalization, the main problem is the contradiction between the development and protection of rural culture. This paper takes Panjia fen “Harmonious Family” Eco-Resort in Beijing Suburb as an example. On the basis of comprehensive analysis of Panjiafen village by field survey and questionnaire survey, Combining multiple plan, Discussion on the development and protection of rural culture.
Spatial-Temporal Characteristics of Urbanization Efficiency in Coastal Cities of China
Authors: Shang Yingshi , Liu Shuguang , Liu Chunyu , Yin Peng
Published: January 2020

Taking the coastal cities in China as study case, this article used Super-SBM DEA and DEA Malmquist index models to analyse the urbanization efficiency, then use the Moran’s I to conclude the spatial cluster characteristics of the urbanization efficiency in coastal cities. The results show that: (1) The urbanization efficiency of coastal cities keeps increasing gradually, with the average value rising from 0.4920 in 2006 to 0.8262 in 2016. The cities with higher values locate mainly in the south of the Yangtze River, especially in Guangdong Province. (2) Technical level is the main reason that restricts the improvement of urbanization efficiency in coastal cities. On the contrary, scale efficiency and pure technology efficiency promote the improvement of urbanization efficiency. (3) There is an obvious positive agglomeration relationship in the urbanization efficiency of coastal cities, but this relationship becomes weaker in recent years. (4) The local Moran’s I of urbanization efficiency in coastal cities shows that: H-H cities are mainly located in the Pearl River Delta and Yangtze River Delta. L-L cities are mostly distributed in the north of the Yangtze River. L-H and H-L cities are scattered in each province and their spatial agglomeration is weaker.
Molecular Epidemiology of Avian Influenza Virus (H5N1), Sumatera Indonesia
Authors: Juariah S , Irawan M P , Surya A , Darmadi  , Mahardika D P
Published: January 2020

The highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus has been causing outbreaks in several regions in Indonesia, which is followed by high human casualties. It is panzootic virus in poultry and continues to spread and pose a major challenge to health in both animal and human. The H5N1 virus is considered as a serious pandemic threat which has potentially to re-endemic over time. This is proven by mutation of the H5N1 avian influenza virus in the globe. This study aims to investigate the distribution, prevalence, and transmission of avian influenza virus (H5N1) in Sumatera. In a retrospective analysis of 136 samples of H5N1 HA (Hemagglutinin) cds between 2004 and 2016. We present a phylogenetic approach with Neighbor-joining (NJ) tree analysis and Bayesian molecular clock-like-lines, to reconstruct the molecular epidemiology of DNA sequences of H5N1 virus isolated from Sumatera. Overall, the distribution was distinguished into 7 clades, with prevalence detected at 9 out of 13 regions in Sumatera, and all the transmission was originated from outside the island. The spread of H5N1 avian influenza on Sumatera is not linear and homogeneous. Therefore, it has shown a significant change in the variant that currently exists with the original species.
Economic Valuation of Tourism Pasumpahan Island West Sumatera with Travel Cost Method
Authors: Batubara I K , Yulinda E , Warningsih T
Published: January 2020

The research was conducted on Pasumpahan Island in Bungus Teluk Kabung Sub-district, Padang, West Sumatera, Indonesia. The aim of this research was to: (1) Identify the visitor characteristics of Pasumpahan Island; (2) Measuring the amount of economic value obtained by Pasumpahan Island seen from the consumer surplus with the Individual Travel Cost Method. Respondents determined by accidental sampling method whit 40 respondents. The data were analyzed using multiple regression models. The research was conducted on Pasumpahan Island in Bungus Teluk Kabung Sub-district, Padang, West Sumatera. The demand based of Travel Cost Method was Y=8,258-1,103(X1)+1,479(X3)-0,598(X5)+0,241(X6) with r2=0,98; Y is the frekuensi of visits, X1 is travel cost, X2 education, X5 is miliage and X6 is gender. The accumulated of the consumer surplus can generate economic value of Pasumpahan Island. The value of consumer surplus Pasumpahan Island is equal to IDR.23.434.881,61 per year or IDR.3.691.532,58 per visit and economic value seen from the Travel Cost Mehod of IDR.103.946.582.269,63 per year.
Host-derived Probiotics for Finfish Aquaculture
Authors: Caipang C M A , Suharman I , Avillanosa A L , Bargoyo V T
Published: January 2020

The mucosal surface of aquatic animals harbors a diverse number of microorganisms with interesting biological and biochemical characteristics. Besides acting as a natural defense system of the host, the microbial community that is associated with these specialized tissues and organs serves as reservoirs of candidate probiotics. The use of probiotics is a strategy employed to improve the health of the host and to prevent infectious diseases. Terrestrial microorganisms that act as natural defense systems of most cultured species have been identified as the main producer for these beneficial bacterial candidates. At present, there are a number of commercially available probiotics but their benefits in large-scale aquaculture operations are largely variable. Host-derived probiotics have gained popularity in recent years as they are alternative sources of beneficial microbes to the aquaculture industry that is primarily dependent on the use of terrestrial microorganisms. The relevance of host microbiota and its potential as a source of candidate probiotics are demonstrated in a number of studies done in various fish models. By presenting the results obtained from previous studies on the ability of host-associated probiotics to improve growth and health of the host, this review condensed the current knowledge and information in order to provide a platform for future research and development on the application of host-associated probiotics in finfish aquaculture.
Study on the Stability of High Speed Craft With Step Hull Angle Variations
Authors: Afriantoni A , Romadhoni R , Santoso B
Published: January 2020

This research is to investigate the stability of High Speed Craft with step hull angle variations at Napoleon Patrol Boat. The Napoleon Patrol Boat is a speed control boat for marine and fisheries resources in Riau Province which has a limited operational area. In its operation, the Napoleon speedboat was used to patrol the waters of zone 1, namely the waters of Bengkalis, Siak and Meranti Regency. This ship was built using fiberglass construction that is lightweight and also strong. The number of cases of fishing theft and the problem of using fishing gear that is not in accordance with its designation, makes the presence of fast boats really necessary for the safety of the waters and the safety of the people there. In this study the Napoleon hull was modified by adding variations in the step hull angle. The stability analysis method used for this study is to use numerical computing software or shipping software to help calculate stability and equilibrium. Stability analysis is carried out by calculating the value of stability to the stability curve at the slope angle of -30° to 90°. The analysis uses the standard stability guidelines issued by IMO for HSC2000 fast boats with light arm 20°. The stability analysis results of maximum stability are found on the sail conditions of the PC Max GZ hull model 0.889 m at 51.8 deg, then the hull SH-2 Max GZ 1 m at 51.8 deg, and the hull model SH-2 Max GZ 0.758 m at 51, 8 deg. Analysis of the use of step hull variations on the hull of the SH-2 model has met all IMO criteria in 3 different conditions that have good stability.
Study of Location Selection of Fish Landing Place in Pambangpesisir Village, Bantan Subdistrict, Bengkalis Regency Riau Province
Authors: Zain Jonny
Published: January 2020

The study was conducted for 6 months from April to October 2018. The survey was conducted on 4 and 5 May and 24 August 2018 in Pambangpesisir Village. The research aims to determine the most appropriate location of the three locations that are determined to be used as a place to build a Fish Landing Place. The results showed that the location II in the Dusun Kembar had better physical, technical, demography and infrastructure compared to the other two locations. Whereas location I in Dusun Permai and location III in Dusun Makmur have better fishery potential value than location II. But overall location II has a better value (249) than the location I (179) and location III (172). So that the best location to build a Fish Landing Place in Pambangpesisir Village is in location II which is located in the Dusun Kembar
Optimized path planning of an unmanned vehicle in an unknown environment using the PSO algorithm
Authors: Tavoosi V , Marzbanrad J , Golnavaz M
Published: January 2020

Today, the use of drones has expanded, particularly in high-risk and/or inaccessible environments, or situations where the cost of human resource is high. One of the most important uses of these unmanned vehicles is in rescue fields where they carry instruments and resources, or transfer wounded people. One of the most important discussions in this regard is the issue of routing these cars in an unknown environment. The first step for the vehicle to start its mission is to drive around environmental barriers. Environmental barriers can be divided into two categories. The first category comprises barriers that can be located on a map using satellite imagery and known maps. The second category contains obstacles that the car may encounter while navigating the path and but which have not been anticipated. To solve this problem, this research uses the PSO method to optimize offline routing in an environment with a specified map. The vehicle then may encounter new obstacles when moving on the planned path and identify those obstacles using sensors. In this case, using the neural network algorithm, it can obtain an optimal pseudo-path to circumvent the obstacle. In fact, the issue is divided into two sections. The first issue is the optimal routing with the PSO method, and the second section tackles the problem of dealing with unplanned obstacles using the neural network algorithm.
Experimental and Theoretical Investigation of Reducing Energy Consumption for a Building using Geothermal Water through the Glass
Authors: Imran Amer Matrood , Almusawi Khalid , Mahdi Jaafar Ali
Published: January 2020

Electricity consumption is the main criterion for identifying green buildings that contribute to the sustainable development of the world. The aim of this study was to reduce the utilization of electrical energy by air-conditioning devices, by decreasing heat gain via the glass of buildings. The study found that the maximum energy consumption for air conditioners was 48% of total energy in a building. The glass significantly contributes to waste and electrical energy heat loss by heat transfer to the inside of the building. The study showed that the largest surplus of cooling load for a glass type (triple glazing 4/12/4/12/4mm air-filled clear glass) is 44.7 tons, and the lowest simple payback period is 2.19 years for glass type double glazing 5/12/5 mm air-filled clear glass, when the current glass in the building was replaced with six different types of glass. Finally, double glass is improved by adding geothermal water into the heat sink, to remove some of the heat that comes from out. Experimental and numerical results (ANSYS-15) showed that the use of geothermal water decreased heat transfer through glass by nearly 6%.
Effect of Embedment Depth for Circular Footing on the Amplitude of Displacement under Dynamic Load
Authors: Abdul Kaream Khalid W. , Fattah Mohammed Y. , Khaled Zeyad S. M.
Published: January 2020

The effect of the embedment depth of a circular footing resting on dry sand and subjected to dynamic load on the amplitude of soil displacement (Az) was investigated the present study. In order to simulate the conditions occurring in the field, a special testing apparatus with accessories was designed and manufactured to study the effect of dynamic load on soil. A total of 18 cases were examined to take into account the effects of different parameters, including different frequencies (0.5, 1, and 2 Hz); relative densities (medium sand, R.D=50% and dense sand, R.D=80%); and corresponding unit weights (17.52 kN and 18.33 kN). All tests were carried out under load amplitude of 0.5 tons. The behaviour of the soil underneath the footing was examined by measuring the amplitude of displacement AZ using a vibration meter placed at a set depth (B) under the footing. It was found that when the embedment depth is changed from zero (at surface) to 0.5 B and then to B the value of amplitude of the displacement Az is reduced. The percentage of reduction in Az was about 4 to 39 % at depth 0.5 B, and about 37-77 % at depth B.
Experimental Study of Heat Transfer Enhancement by Inserting Metal Chain in Heat Exchanger Tube
Authors: Ghitheeth Ali H. , Fawzi Mas , Aljibory Mohammed Wahhab
Published: January 2020

Heat transfer augmentation in heat exchangers is important in many large industrial applications and many studies have been conducted on this subject. In this paper, an experimental study was used to verify the increased heat transfer of a circular heat exchanger tube with the insertion of metal chains, under turbulent flow conditions. A rig was designed and fabricated to investigate the effects of using the metal chain as turbulators inside the heat exchanger pipe, on heat transfer performance and on fluid flow behavior. The metal chains used were of different lengths of chain ring and different diameters of ring wire. Five ring length/tube diameter ratios (P/D) were used, (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5). Two wire diameter/tube diameter ratios (t/D) were used in this work (0.1 and 0.15). Heavy fuel oil (HFO) was used inside the tube, flowing at 30 °C with uniform tube wall temperature. The Reynolds numbers tested were between 5,000 and 15,000. The results showed the thermal enhancement factor (η) decreased with increasing Reynolds number for all cases, depending on lengths of chain ring (P) and thickness the weir chain (t) values. A maximum thermal enhancement factor (η) was found with a metal chain at P/D=3 and t/D=0.15. The results also show that P/D=1 and t=4mm, give the highest Nusselt number.
Calculations of Loss Factor Based on Real-Time Data: Determining Technical Power Loss for the Electrical Distribution Network in Karbala City
Authors: Alwan Sabah Hassan , Razzaq Altahir Ali Abdul , Al Tu’ma Ahmad Salman
Published: January 2020

Several empirical approaches have been used to calculate the power loss factor in electrical systems, including machine learning methods, top-down/bottom-up approaches, fuzzy-C-number algorithms, equivalent hours loss factors, and statistical analysis. Most methods for calculating power loss depend mainly on two substantial factors, the loss and load factors. These factors perform dynamic functions in terms of producing a good settlement. This research thus took into consideration a combination of actual data calculation and computation loss factor for actual distribution networks. The results observed in simulation suggest that, although that the method is simple and not complex, a suitable relationship between load and loss factors can be obtained by utilising exponential curve fitting. The proposed approach was tested on two distribution substations, with all experimental data collected from the electrical distribution network in Karbala city. The effectiveness of the proposed approach was shown through mathematical analysis and numerical simulations to determine the technical power loss, indicating an average yearly loss factor of 0.6114 using ETAP software. A further simple comparison among the loss factors generated by different methods related to the proposed approach was also completed to prove the robustness of the proposed approach.
Applying a Firefly Algorithm for Optimum Allocation of Solar Photovoltaic Units in a Distribution System
Authors: Tukkee Ahmed S , Alali Mohammed J , Zarkani Mahmood K
Published: January 2020

Electrical power companies are currently competing to provide the best services to consumers, by providing both stability and environmental benefits. The integration of renewable energy sources into distribution systems represents the best solution for these requirements, and Solar Photovoltaic units (solar P.V.) are among the fastest growing and most powerful energy resources in the world. Solar P.V. units are installed customer side to improve the profile of buses’ voltage and to minimise losses in the system. The optimum allocation of such units provides several benefits, while choosing the wrong site could lead to over or under voltage and increase losses in the power system. This paper presents a Firefly Algorithm (FA) that can be used to locate the optimal placement for a solar P.V. in distribution systems. A Fast Voltage Stability Index (FVSI) is utilised to select candidate busses for the installation of the solar P.V. panels within the system, with the aim being to improve the voltage profile and minimise total power losses. The implemented algorithm was then examined on the IEEE 33-bus test system and the results w compared with those calculated by executing the genetic algorithm method (GA). The percentage of reduction in real power losses obtained using the FA method was 6.46 % compared with the 6 % obtained by the GA method, and an improvement in the system voltage profile was also observed.
Optimal tuning of a Linear Quadratic Regulator for Position Control using Particle Swarm Optimisation
Authors: Kamil H G , Makki O T , Umran H M
Published: January 2020

This paper discusses the stabilising problems of a nonlinear and multivariate underactuated systems, also known as Inverted Pendulum (IP) systems. The attitude control of a nonlinear IP system is thus considered. One of the most important techniques, a Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR), is used in this paper to design a controller for an IP system. The structure of LQR parameters is based on weight matrices, and the adjustment of the weight matrices parameters is the most challenging part of this, being normally computed by repeating trials and adjusting based on successful or unsuccessful outcomes. The difficulty in guessing the optimum matrices and achieving automatic adjustment of the weighting matrices is mitigated by the introduction of a metaheuristic algorithm to investigate the optimal solution; this is based on a swarm of particles moving in a virtual space. The proposed approach successfully stabilised the IP system in the upright position and removed perturbations; the simulated results thus showed satisfactory performance of the suggested control method.
Using different processors as predictors to detect a data packet logging into the Snort network with minimal delay time
Authors: Yassir Suhad Abbas , Hasani Nahla Flayyih , Shakir Haidar Raad
Published: January 2020

The growing number of Internet threats has increased demand for better defence and information security in computer systems. Snort is a Network Intrusion Detection System (NIDS) used in network security by staying on the edge of a network and performing deep packet checking on any packet logging in to the protected domain. The question of how much overhead is introduced into the network traffic by the introduction of real-time NIDS was thus investigated. A simulation methodology was used to implement experiments to evaluate the effect of Snort, measured by end-to-end delay-time introduced by the engine. These experiments proved that there is no noticeable effect on network traffic from such an introduction. IBM SPSS software version 24 was used in this study.
Design of an Intelligent Controller for Above Knee Prostheses based on an Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System
Authors: Kadhim D A , Raheema M N , Hussein J S
Published: January 2020

The number of Above Knee (AK) amputees has increased in recent years and this has led to a need for urgent work on the design of proper lower limb prostheses. Lower limb prosthetics can be divided into active and passive devices. However, passive prosthetics cannot fully provide the natural motion of a healthy leg, and the technologies used in active prosthetics with knee joints are often far too expensive for amputees in developing countries such as Iraq. In this paper, an active lower limb prosthesis with an efficient knee joint is thus designed. Two strategies were used to collect data for gait cycle analysis of the leg in the sagittal plane: the first was based on the use of a force platform device to obtain the foot ground force according to the foot position (x, y), while the second utilised a video-camera based system to examine knee joint angles. The obtained data were all sent to an intelligent controller that uses an Adaptive Neuro-based Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS). The ANFIS controller determines the ground force, mimicking the moment of the active knee with a DC motor and flexion-extension angle values. The experimental data for the motion of the knee joint were collected in the Gait Laboratory, then transformed to joint angles using the ANFIS controller. The results show excellent response in the proposed ANFIS controllers in terms of determining angle and moment values of the knee joint with a very low RMS error of 0.006.
The effects of fibre on the mechanical properties of aerated concrete
Authors: Aldikheeli M R , Shubber M S
Published: January 2020

Aerated concrete (AC) is lightweight concrete in which air voids are captured in the mortar by means of the addition of an aerating agent to meet specific requirements of density and strength. Aerated concrete displays brittle failure in tension, however, and thus an alternative solution to make the concrete more ductile and reduce the problem of cracking is to add steel bars or steel fibre. The aim of this study is thus to investigate the effect of steel fibres on the compressive strength, flexural strength, stress-strain relationship, modulus of elasticity, density, sorptivity, and water absorption of aerated concrete with such fibres as compared to plain aerated concrete. End-hooked steel fibres with lengths of 35 mm and 60 mm with aspect ratios of 64 and 67 respectively were used in this study, with a volume friction (Vf) of 1.5%. The results showed that the effect of the aspect ratio (Lf/df) on flexural strength was most prominent, and that the compressive strength of the fibre reinforced aerated concrete (SFRAC) increased significantly and the density increased slightly, while the water absorption was decreased. The sorptivity of the SFRAC with short fibres was similar to that of standard AC, with this being increased slightly with the longer fibres. However, the stress-strain relationship in tension increased most significantly. Overall, 1.5% of steel fibre of 60 mm length provided the highest flexural strength at 28 days.
Impact of elevated temperature on the mechanical properties of cement mortar reinforced with rope waste fibres
Authors: Nayel Israa Hasan , Nasr Mohammed Salah , Abdulridha Shereen Qasim
Published: January 2020

The exposure of concrete or cement mortars to fire or other elevated temperatures negatively affects the mechanical properties, and a change may also occur in the pore structures, leading to cracking and spalling. In order to hinder or reduce the negative impact of elevated temperature on cement mortar, as well as to promote reuse of waste in the concrete industry to improve the environment, this study aims to investigate the effect of elevated temperature on the mechanical properties of cement mortar reinforced with rope waste fibres (RWF). The fibres were obtained by cutting a used polymeric rope (0.034 mm in diameter) into small fibres with average lengths of 12 mm. Four mortar mixtures, including one reference mixture (without fibres) and three mixtures containing RWF in proportions of 0.25%, 0.5% and 0.75% (by mortar weight), were cast. After 28 days of curing, the hardened specimens were air dried for at least two weeks, and some specimens were exposed to a controlled temperatures of 300 and 600 °C for two hours, while the others were placed at ambient temperature. All specimens were then examined via compressive strength, flexural strength, mass loss, ultrasonic pulse velocity and visual inspection tests. The results indicated that RWF can prevent cracks appearing at 600 °C; however, the RWF had a negative impact on the compressive strength of the mortar under elevated temperatures, despite the flexural strength and UPV properties being improved significantly.
Reinforcing mortar with short fibre iron waste
Authors: Fahad Besma M , Jassim Khaled S
Published: January 2020

The objective of this work was to reinforce mortar with low-cost fibres. Two groups of mortars were prepared, with and without Styrene-butadiene rubbers(SBR), then each group was reinforced with short fibres of iron waste of approximately 1 to 1.5cm in length and 1mm in thickness (aspect ratios of 10 to 15). These fibres were added at different percentages (10, 20, and 30%) by weight of sand. All groups were allowed to cure for 28 days. The results then showed an enhancement in strength for each group based on measurements of compressive and flexural strength. Moreover, several other properties (dry density, porosity, water absorption) were also improved. The lowest dry density, porosity and water absorption results were 2104.4 Kg/m3, 21.25%, and 10.09%, respectively at 10% iron waste fibres with SBR, while the best results for compressive strength and flexural strength were 33.75 MPa and 7.6969 MPa at 20% and 30% iron waste fibres with SBR, respectively. It can thus be concluded that short fibres of iron waste can partially replace fine aggregate in terms of reinforcing and improving the properties of mortar.
Evaluating a line heat source method using a COMSOL® multiphysics axisymmetric 2D model
Authors: Humaish Hussein
Published: January 2020

Research into global warming has increased significantly in the last twenty years due to the pressing nature of environmental concerns, and several transient techniques have been developed to reduce the time and cost of such research. In this work, a non-steady state probe (NSSP), the TP02 Hukseflux® probe with TPSYS02 control interface, was used to determine the thermal conductivity for insulation materials such as glass wool; the experimental processes were calibrated using glycerol as variation of temperature with logarithm of time is linear. The experimental tests were validated using COMSOL Multiphysics® software, and the effects of parameters that cannot be obtained experimentally, such as the component layers of the probe and the length/diameter ratio were also validated using this software. The reference temperature sensor (Pt1000), its position in the base, and how much was inserted into the materials during the experimental testing were thus evaluated. The thickness of the layers of probe material in the radial direction was also simulated in COMSOL to study its effect on the results. The results obtained experimentally were consistent with the results of simulation of COMSOL Multiphysics®.
Evaluation of gray water treatment with pilot filter for irrigation purposes
Authors: Ibraheem Batool H. , Alshammari Musa Habib , Alwan Husam H.
Published: January 2020

Warming and water scarcity are issues that attract global interest. In particular, it is vital to reduce the demands on supplies of fresh water. This study investigates the use of gray sewage from domestic and restaurant settings for agricultural purposes, following treatment and purification using simple and available techniques. The reduction of agricultural fertilizer use is a secondary economic purpose: ideally, a suitable economic target for society can be achieved. In this study, purification was achieved by filtering gray water using system of sand filtration (sand and gravel) with the use of other materials to increase the effectiveness of treatment. These other materials included coal, active carbon, bentonite, pomegranate peel, and chlorine. Each substance was used individually and chemical tests were conducted on the gray water. The results of the chemical tests were pleasing and can be summarized as: PH 7.1-8.7; EC 1298-2590mg/l; TDS 415-965mg/l; turbidity 45-108); temperature 12.3-24.6 deg. Ċ; Ca.+2 59.12-160.32mg/l;, Mg.+2 7.32-79.79mg/l; Na.+1 141.6-518.6mg/l; SAR 5.4-16.6; K 9.6-38.2mg/l; SO4 302-854mg/l; CaCo. 104 -169mg/l; NH4-N 16-28.627mg/l; T-P 0.639-10mg/l; BOD5 17-68mg/l; COD 117-1300mg/l. Total coliforms were 10-280000 cfu/100 ml.
The effects on the properties of self-compacting mortar of using stainless steel blast furnace slag as a sustainable nano material addition
Authors: Kadhim Ahmed S , Atiyah Alaa A , Salih Shakir A
Published: January 2020

Voids in cementitious mortar materials cause a drastic reduction in the load carrying capacity of the element. Furthermore, weak interfaces between cement paste and the aggregate creates micro crack initiation and crack propagation. It is therefore very important to decrease these pores and enhance the microstructure homogeneity of cement mortar by adding nano particles. In this article, the properties of self-compacting mortar containing nano blast furnace slag were experimentally assessed. Nano blast furnace slag was prepared and used as an additive for self-compacting mortar in 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5% by weight of cement proportions to generate cementitious sustainable materials. Blast furnace slag was crushed and milled to nano particle size, as checked by Laser Particle Size Analysis, AFM, and FESEM. The self-compacting mortar properties were then tested at 7, 28, and 90 days age. The flowability of self-compacting mortar was determined using the mini flow table and mini v-funnel tests. The experimental results for the hardened mortar showed that the modification and enhancement of the mechanical properties, including compressive strength, flexural strength, and direct tensile strength, increased as the nano powder percentage increased. The total water absorption and porosity were also decreased as the nano powder percentage increased, while the density of self-compacting mortar was decreased. The microstructure homogeneity and nanoparticle distributions of self-compacting mortar were also examined using FESEM.
Experimental work on improving the efficiency of storm networks using a new galley design filter bucket.
Authors: Mohsen Karrar A , Nile Basim K , Hassan Waqed H
Published: January 2020

Storm networks, as with all urban infrastructure elements, are important to life in society. One of the most important problems facing such networks is the clogging of pipes due to sediment inlet into the sewage systems, which can cause flooding during heavy rain. This study aims to improve the efficiency of storm networks by using a new filter. In this study, a model of a network of pipes was built up to simulate rain flow over a street of two lanes. The first lane contained a filter and the second lane contained a manhole. The percentage of sediment passing from the manhole to the filter was calculated and compared in terms of the effects of several variables, such as the intensity of rainfall and the street slope. The results showed that the passing ratio from the filter to manhole was 0.28 at a low rain intensity of 30 mm/hr and 0.13 at a high rain intensity of 58 mm/hr. The passing ratio from filter to manhole was 0.21 and 0.12 for small and big lengths of filter, respectively, while the passing ratio at small and big bed slopes was 26 and 13, respectively.
Design and Implementation of a Control, Monitoring and Supervision System for Train Movement Based on Fixed Block Signaling System with AVR Microprocessor
Authors: Sandidzadeh Mohammad Ali , Soleymaani Farzaad , Shirazi Shahrouz
Published: January 2020

Railway signaling and control systems are vital for the safe control of transport processes in rail traffic. Today, industry uses many processes, such as railway signaling systems, that must be controlled. Manufacturers of such systems have tried to update their products in line with modern industrial control technologies. In this paper, the possibility of using the common industrial automation equipment for a signaling system are investigated. Different parts of the signaling system, including wayside equipment, field element controls (interlocking and object controller) and supervision systems were specified. Then, the interlocking logic was extracted based on a fixed block signaling system. Control, monitoring and supervision systems were designed with an AVR microcontroller and then implemented on printed circuit board. Finally, the outputs of the system and its results with various railway lines, based on chosen layout, were analyzed and its applications identified. These applications include wayside equipment monitoring, the training of traffic control operators, and movement safety tests of the line before setup of the main system.
Fresh and hardened properties of self-compacting concrete incorporating PVA-treated recycled aggregate
Authors: Aljasimee Doaa H. , Abo Dhaheer M. S.
Published: January 2020

In this paper, an experimental study was undertaken to improve the fresh and hardened characteristics of normal (NS) and high strength (HS) self-compacting concrete (SCC) mixes made with recycled aggregate (RA). An easy-to-perform treatment method was proposed to enhance RA properties: in this method, RA was first subjected to partial removal of adhered mortar, then treated with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution for 24 hours. A series of SCC mixes, varying in w/c ratio and coarse aggregate type, including natural aggregate (NA), recycled aggregate (RA), and treated recycled aggregate (TRA), were prepared for this investigation. All mixes were investigated in their fresh state using slump flow and J-ring tests, and in their hardened state using compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and modulus of elasticity tests. The results demonstrated that the proposed treatment method is reliable in terms of improving the properties of RA. With the exception of the passing-ability test for RA concrete mixes, all tested SCC mixes met the self-compactibility and segregation resistance criteria. Additionally, the investigated hardened properties of TRA self-compacting concrete mixes were improved significantly by using the proposed treatment method compared with those of untreated RA concrete mixes.
Influence of CFRP Strengthening on the Behavior of Concavely-Curved Soffit Concrete Bridge Girders
Authors: Al-Ghrery K , Kalfat R , Oukaili N , Al-Mosawe A , Al-Mahaidi R
Published: January 2020

Over the last few decades, fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) has been increasingly used in strengthening different structural concrete members. The main objective of this research is to study the influence of curvature on the performance of curved soffit reinforced concrete (RC) bridge girders that have been strengthened with carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRP). This experimental program was designed to evaluate the effect of concavity and soffit curvature on the CFRP laminate utilization and load capacity, compared to flat soffit RC beams strengthened with the same CFRP system. Accordingly, five beams, 2.7 m in length and having the same degree of soffit curvature (20 mm per 1 meter) extending over 2 meters of the span length, were tested under three-point monotonic static loading up to failure. CFRP pre-cured laminates were used for external strengthening in flexure. It was observed that 20 mm/m degree of curvature reduced the load-carrying capacity of strengthened concavely curved RC beams by 15.9 – 17.8%.
Effect of Compaction Methods on the Morphology of Aggregates in Hot Mix Asphalt
Authors: Abed Mohammed A. , Abed Alaa H.
Published: January 2020

Hot mix asphalt plays a very important function in determining a pavement’s capacity with regard to major failures, such as fatigue, permanent deformation, and thermal-associated cracking. Hot mix asphalt’s behaviour is affected by the mechanistic attributes and shape of its constituent aggregates, alongside the geometric properties of those aggregates such as position and orientation. This paper focused on characterising the aggregates used in producing hot mix asphalt and their allocation within such asphalt mixes using digital image processing (DIP) methods. Additional laboratory tests were also performed in order to match compaction methods used in the laboratory with those occurring in the field. The results provided evidence that this methodology offers simpler and faster ways to provide a full indication of the behaviour of aggregates during compaction and to determine their tendency to randomise throughout the compaction process. ImageJ Fiji software was found to be competent to characterise aggregates’ constituent forms and orientations; randomness, represented by vector magnitude, is determined in an aggregate directional array as an orientation factor (Δ) and used as a reference for better interlocking where heavy compaction is used. This factor ranges from 0 to 100%, where 0% indicates completely random particles and 100% indicates that particles are exactly within a single array. Mixes compacted with a Superpave gyratory compactor (SGC) and roller compactor had aggregate particles with relatively higher numbers of contact points and randomness than those mixes compacted using a Marshall Hammer. The results also showed that vector magnitude is an approach to determining field compaction, with results of 82.6, 67.43, and 90.7% for SGC, Marshall Hammer, and roller compacter compaction, respectively. This makes it clear that SGC and roller compaction are the nearest types of compaction to those used the field. DIP also showed that the percentage of contact points in various types of compaction were 63.6 and 92.9% for Marshall and roller compacters, respectively, while field core was found to have 88.4% contact points when produced by SGC.
Experimental Hybrid Testing of a Concrete Filled Steel Tube (CFST) Bridge Pier Subjected to Vertical and Horizontal Ground Motions
Authors: Ali Al-Attraqchi , Javad Hashemi , Riadh Al-Mahaidi
Published: January 2020

Hybrid simulation is a form of advanced testing that combines both numerical and experimental techniques to achieve an economical seismic response assessment of structures. The technique utilises the best feature of computer simulations and combines these with experimental testing. This makes hybrid simulation a powerful platform for experimentally studying the seismic responses of structures to collapse. This paper presents an application of hybrid simulation for tracing the seismic responses of a concrete filled steel tube (CFST) column subjected to combined horizontal and vertical ground accelerations. A state-of-the-art testing facility, known as the multi axis substructure testing (MAST) system, was used to impose complex boundary effects on the physical specimen using mixed load and deformation modes. The column was subjected to five increasing ground motion levels. During the test, the column experienced large axial force variations of up to 2.2 MN and reached a maximum drift of 8.8% without significant damage. The results demonstrate that this CFST column is thus capable of resisting large compression and tension forces, offering high levels of ductility without collapse.
A Heat Recovery Method of Internal Combustion Engine Using a Thermoelectric Generator
Authors: Imran Murtdha S. , Hashim Hasan.T.
Published: January 2020

The means by which engines lose energy include losses such as friction between the moving parts and heat. The heat losses are larger than the friction losses, and the largest portion of heat loss occurs in the exhaust system. The recovery of heat losses represents a power gain by the process and reduction in engine fuel consumption. An experimental study was conducted for utilizing waste exhaust heat to generate electricity using thermoelectric generators. The test engine was a four-stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled spark ignition (SI) engine. Four thermoelectric generators were installed at the upper surface of the engine silencer, with two aluminium heat sinks in order to decrease the cold side temperature. The experimental results showed that the generated voltage from the four thermoelectric generators went up with increase in the hot side temperature, and time. The maximum voltage generated was 11 volts under natural convection effect. The study was accomplished at engine speed 2200rpm with brake power 1473.77 W and fuel consumption of 0.83kg/hr.
Investigation of Environmentally-Friendly Alternative Refrigerants for Automotive Air Conditioning Systems
Authors: Abbood Mohammed Hasan , Hashim Hasan T , Amin Amin S
Published: January 2020

The popularity of automotive transport and the length of time people now spend in their cars mean that most vehicles come equipped with an automobile air conditioning (AAC) system. Most of these use refrigerant fluids, which affect the environment and increase global warming. Therefore, many territories have laws that mandate the use of environmentally-friendly refrigerants with zero ozone depletion potential (ODP) and low global warming potential (GWP). The ACCs in most existing motor vehicles use R134a as a refrigerant, which has a high GWP. The aim of this study is to investigate alternatives to R134a that are characterized by environmentally-friendly qualities such as low GWP, are available and can be charged directly into an existing system without modification. Therefore, thermodynamic analysis of an AAC system containing R134a was conducted and the results compared with blends formed by mixing hydrocarbons (HCs) (R290/R600a), which are flammable, environmentally-friendly and ultra-low GWP refrigerants, with R134a (R600a/R290/134a). The mixing of HCs and R134a led to reduced flammability and used R134a in a ratio within low GWP criteria, to decrease the cost and the amount of its banked. Refprop software was used for the thermodynamic analysis. Theoretical results revealed that the blend of (R600a/R290/134a) with a mass ratio (43/35/22) has low GWP, provides the same level of refrigerant performance and can be used directly without any modification to the system.
Influence of Refill Friction Stir Spot Welding Technique on the Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Aluminum AA5052 and AA6061-T3
Authors: Mahdi Akeel Z. , Amin Samir A. , Bakhy Sadeq H.
Published: January 2020

This paper presents the effects of using the refill friction stir spot welding (RFSSW) technique on the mechanical properties and microstructure of aluminum AA5052 and AA6061-T3. Specimens were first prepared from AA5052 sheet of thickness 2 mm and AA6061-T3 of 1.6 mm, for chemical analysis and mechanical tests. Workpieces were then stir spot welded by RFSSW at four rotational speeds (2000, 2500, 3000 and 4000 rpm) using two tool pin diameters (5 and 7 mm) to carry out the tensile shear tests. Microhardness testing was conducted at the best conditions along the cross-section of the welded specimens, as well as microstructure examination. The results of the tensile shear tests manifested that, for AA5052 and AA6061-T3 at the tool rotational speeds 2000 rpm and 3000 rpm, respectively, using a tool pin of 7 mm the ultimate tensile shear force was slightly higher than at other speeds in both diameters of tool pin (5 and 7 mm). However, the microhardness results displayed a W-shape at the best conditions. Finally, the microstructure inspection revealed the morphology of the major zones of the weld joint.