bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capillary Electrophoresis and its Basic Principles in Historical Retrospect. Part 2. Electrophoresis of Ions: the Period from its Discovery in 1800 till Faraday’s Lines of Electric Force in the 1840s.
Authors: Kenndler Ernst
Published: September 2021

This review is the first in a series that deals exclusively with electrophoresis of ions. Since in modern terminology "electrophoresis is the movement of dispersed particles relative to a fluid under the influence of a spatially uniform electric field”, electrophoresis is not limited to colloidal particles, it includes ions as well. The history of electrophoresis of ions therefore begins in 1800 at the same time as that of electrolysis, because the two phenomena are so inextricably linked “that one cannot happen without the other” (Faraday, 1834).
Between 1800 and 1805 about half a dozen different theories of electrolytic decomposition and the movement of the particles - for which we coin the term electrophoretic current - were formulated, all contributing to the discourse, but lacking consistency and none fully convincing. They are discussed nonetheless because most of them fell into oblivion, even though they are interesting for historical reasons. However, from 1805/1806 the predominant theory, formulated by Theodor von Grotthuß and independently by Humphry Davy assumed that polarized molecules of water or dissolved ions form chains between the two electrodes. Only the terminal atoms of these chains were in direct contact with the electrodes and were liberated by galvanic action, but are immediately replaced by neighboring atoms of the same type. This decomposition and recombination of the molecules driven by electric forces which follow the “action at a distance” principle like in Coulomb´s law takes place over the entire chains; they represent the electrophoretic current. However, in 1833 Michael Faraday refuted all previous theories. Two of his groundbreaking findings were of particular importance for the electrophoresis of ions: one was that electricity consists of elementary units of charge. The ions thus carry one or a multiple of these units. The other was the revolutionary theory of the electric lines of force in early 1840s, and of what was later called the electric field. With these findings Faraday fundamentally changed the previously prevailing view of the electrophoresis of ions.
Productive efficiency of wine grape producers in the North of Portugal
Authors: Santos Micael , Antón Rodríguez Xosé , Marta-Costa Ana
Published: September 2021

Portugal is a country traditionally dedicated to viticulture and characterized by the production of wines of high quality. However, although it continues to be a major player in the world, both in the extension of vineyards and in the production of wine, it is certain that in recent years Portugal have lost market share in these areas. In this context, it is interesting to analyze if this situation could be related to the level of productive efficiency of vineyards.
Therefore, the aims of this study are to analyse the farms that are efficiently allocating resources to achieve maximum production and to identify characteristics that make the farm more efficient. In addition, we want to analyse the productive efficiency of the farms from a regional perspective.
To achieve this purpose, we use a database collected by face-to-face surveys from a sample of 154 wine-growing farms with specific input-output information from 2017.
These farms are locating in the three regions of the North of Portugal (Minho, Douro and Trás-os-Montes), which represents more than 40% of the Portuguese vineyard area. To analyse the productive efficiency of the farms, we use the Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA).
The results show that the efficiency level in the wine-growing farms from the North of Portugal is arround 67%, but with significant differences at regional level. Many of these discrepancies may be due to structural factors, such as the type of grape produced in each region. In conclusion, the findings make evident that the most efficient farms are not the most profitable due to the structure of the existing value chain.
Innovative Teaching and Technology Integration: Exploring Elderly Teachers’ Attitudes
Authors: Bazila Tariq  , Maria Dilawar  , Yaar Muhammad
Published: September 2021

To stay current in this dynamic age, innovation and adaptability is not only considered a key to success, rather it is deemed a significant tool of survival. The field of education has metamorphosed with the shift of focus from teachers’ teaching to students’ learning. This change implies that teachers consistently update their practices and innovate in order to meet the needs of students with diverse skills. With the introduction of student-centred classrooms, project based learning, practical discovery and technological integration, the traditional lecture methods and the idea of passive students is becoming obsolete. However, the attitude of teachers towards innovation varies. The aim of this study was to explore attitudes of elderly teachers towards innovative teaching strategies. This study used qualitative phenomenological study method and criterion sampling technique to select four participants aged 45 years and above. Data were gathered through a self-constructed semi structured interview guide containing three dimensions. Phenomenological data analysis of these three dimensions showed the presence of some cognitive, behavioural and affective resistance to change among teachers. Therefore, it is suggested that certain aspects of training and guidance need to be provided to elderly teachers in order to make the process of innovation easy to adopt.
Measuring Self-Regulation of Distance Learners: A Comparative Study of Science and Arts Students
Authors: Farkhunda Rasheed Choudhary  , Azhar Mahmood  , Sidra Khushnood
Published: September 2021

In distance learning, students’ self-regulation and autonomy has vital place. Learner’s selfregulation is a major predictor of the academic success of distance learner. The high rate of selfregulation increases the quality of distance education. Therefore, it is important to explore that how much self-regulated the distance learners are in a distance education mode. This study aimed at exploring the self-regulation strategies of science and arts students studying in a distance learning university. The present study was descriptive in nature and survey was used for it. A sample of forty students was selected through purposive sampling. Learners’ self-regulation was measured through research tool, having six constructs such as planning, monitoring, effort made by the distance learners to accomplish the course, self-efficacy, help-seeking situations, time and environment management situations. The data was collected through online questionnaire. It was found that distance learning science students were more self-regulated than arts students. Overall science students scored significantly higher grades than that of arts students. It is concluded that the science students are more self  regulated due to self monitoring for their studies, more goal setting and more group interdependence. Goal setting and group interdependence can be considered as contributor for high GPA of distance learners. For science students, group interdependence is a good predictor of more GPA, however, for arts students, future orientation can be a predictor of good GPA. It is recommended that more interaction must be increased between instructor and arts students so that they can be more self-regulated about their studies.
Assessment of Distance Learning in the Algerian Universities during the COVID-19
Authors: Boutkhil Guemide  , Dr. Salima Maouche
Published: September 2021

Like many countries in the world, Algeria has been hit by the Corona virus, and as a result, the Algerian government has taken serious measures to deal with the current situation. In this context, the Algerian ministry of higher education and scientific research has instructed universities to perform online teaching and learning through regular, established eLearning platforms, as a step towards reducing the spread of the Corona virus. The present paper provides an assessment of the online learning electronic system provided by the Algerian universities during the pandemic. Basically, the research relies on students’ and teachers’ questionnaires as the undertaking tool to gather valid data in order to analyze and highlight the shortcomings of the online learning. The research results indicated that total reliance on online learning was according to strategies and planned learning objectives as it needs a solid platform for its total implementation. The research concluded with some recommendations which should be taken into account for better implementation of online learning electronic system in the Algerian higher education context.
Tele-Schooling as Distance Learning Approach in Schools of Pakistan During Pandemic COVID-19
Authors: Saghir Ahmad Ch.  , Ayesha Batool  , Muhammad Ajmal
Published: September 2021

Tele-schooling is a distance learning approach that is fruitful in COVID-19. The corona virus destroyed the world system desperately. All fields business, trade, educational institution etc. are closed due to pandemic virus and only one slogan in the world is “SOCIAL Distancing”. The Ministry of Education introduced the tele-schooling as distance learning approach for school students in Pakistan during COVID-19. The purpose of launching new approach of teaching and learning is the continuity of students learning.The intention of researchers behind this study was to explore perceptions of students about tele-schooling at that time when corona damaged theworld badly. This study was designed under survey design and correlational approach. It was descriptive study directed for collecting data from school students regarding teleschooling during uncertain atmosphere.One hundred and forty students were selected by convieninet sampling technique.A self-developed questionnaire regarding teleschooling in COVID-19 on five point likert scale was used for this study. The collected data were analyzed by applying descriptive and inferential statistical techniques. It is concluded that tele-schooling is helpful in distance learning during COVID-19. This approach is better source of developing skills and learning in pandemic situation. They found tele-schooling effective learning approach to accomplish the learningobjectives. A strong association was there which indicated that all dimensions were essential and fruitful to measure the tele-schooling learning approach in COVID-19. The school students are happy and enjoying tele-schooling. Therefore, its presence should be there after pandemic COVID-19.
Technological Interventions and their Impact on Students’ Usage of Technology in Higher Education in Pakistan
Authors: Sumera Irum  , Zohra Khatoon  , Sakina Jumani
Published: September 2021

This study was focusing on the present state of technology used by the students at the university level. The prime objectives of this research were to access the current status of technological use by students for devices used mostly, software used frequently, and reason to use technology. The participants of the study were 211 students of B. Ed. (Hons)-Elementary 4-year program randomly selected from Teacher Education departments of four public sector universities. The study was quantitative and a close-ended questionnaire was used for data collection. The questionnaire was self-developed with the help of literature. The reliability of the questionnaire was determined through the Cronbach Alpha technique and that was 0.8. The data was analyzed through frequencies and percentages. The main findings of the study were; students rated themselves that they had fair computer knowledge and access to the internet; most of them were using smartphones and laptops, they were frequently using software such as Google, MS. Word, and MS. PowerPoint and the least used software were such as MS. Excel and LMS. They utilized technology for the learning process, entertainment, and communication, but the use of technology for discussion groups like WhatsApp, Facebook, etc was not found. The study recommended that students should be provided with facilities to use technology efficiently. And rewards and incentives for the successful use of technology for learning purposes can motivate them to usetechnology effectively.
Challenges and Responses of Higher Education institutions to align higher Education with COVID-19 Realities: A Thematic Analysis
Authors: Sajid Ali Yousuf Zai  , Aisha Shams Akhunzada
Published: September 2021

The world is in the fright condition and facing the threat of COVID-19 and Pakistan is not an exceptional in this situation. By the decision of National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC), all the universities and institutions were closed for formal academic activities and starting online classes from March, 2020. This was an astounding paradigm for the regular students of the institutions as well as for the faculty. Hence, this study has been conceded to find out what the faculty and students got what they lost individually and scholastically and what are their suggestions for the improvement and uniformity of the online learning system throughout thecountry. The purpose of this study was to explore the role of HEC during COVID-19 to implement the immediate online learning and its impact on students learning. This research was based on qualitative research in which data were collected from the literature available online. Various contemporary articles, papers, reports, blogs, newspaper reports as well official reports and news were carried out into consideration for this study. However, the thematic method was used for categorization of the main themes from the literature related to the views of the students and faculty and the role of HEC in the improvement of the online teaching-learning process in Pakistan. Recommendations for the improvement of online teaching and learning system were proposed inthe light of current pandemic situation.
Covid-19 Pandemic Shutdown: Challenges of Hei’s Electronic Support Services in Teacher Education Programs
Authors: Imran Latif Saifi  , Nasreen Akhter  , Lubna Salamat
Published: September 2021

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) is the result of acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARSCoV-2). Pandemic is the outburst of any disease worldwide. Electronic Service (E-service) is based on technology and provides different electronic channels i.e. e-learning & coaching (online learning), e-library, etc. This study was design to explore challenges of HEI’s electronic support services in teacher education during pandemic shut down of COVID-19. The objectives of the study were to explore the challenges of e-support services in teacher education programs due to pandemic shutdown of COVID-19 and to propose a framework for stake holders of HEI’s esupport services. This study was descriptive and the survey method was used. Teacher education program B. Ed (1.5 Years) from two universities of Pakistan, one from formal mode and one from distance education online mode were selected and all the prospective teachers of 2nd semester were defined as population of the study. Sample of the study consisted of 150 students (selected conveniently). An online questionnaire was used as tool for data collection which had 15 closeended statements on 5- point Likert scale. It was concluded that the facility to purchase internet bundles was not available to students in the pandemic shutdown of COVID-19. The students and academia on the other hand were not trained for online teaching learning procedures. It wasproposed that HEI’s may arrange internet bundles with collaboration of internet provider companies to students, academia and institutions also focus to train academia and students for online education because the effect of COVID-19 Pandemic Shutdown are expecting a change in future procedures of education till the situation is not going to be seen normal.
The Effects of COVID-19 on Education in Pakistan: Students’ Perspective
Authors: Fouzia Malik  , Fouzia Ajmal  , Zohran Jumani
Published: September 2021

Due to the wide spread of COVID-19, the educational institutes were closed on 20th March, 2020 and the individuals were advised to isolate themselves at home. This lockdown not only adversely affected the economy but all the educational activities were shut down which created a huge gap in students’ learning and knowledge all over the globe. This quantitative study was designed to explore the impact of COVID-19 on the education of higher level students in the context of Pakistan. The five point Likert Scale questionnaire was provided to the learners enrolled in intermediate, undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate level. 74 respondents respond to the questionnaire. The data were analyzed through SPSS 23. The results of the findings revealed that students have been facing a lot of difficulty to grasp certain concepts during e-classes. The students lacked internet access along with not been given any prior guidance related to the usage of online platform. The challenges regarding online classes at the same time are being faced by the teachers as well along with the students. It was also analyzed that although teachers are providing all the necessary resources and feedback to the students but still students have been going through difficulties in grasping the concept, gaining knowledge and communicating with their teachers online. Due to immense number of online classes teachers have a huge workload on their part.
Wołyniak wśród gór, czyli karpacka epopeja Ułasa Samczuka
Authors: Kupidura Ryszard
Published: September 2021

The year 2020 saw the reedition of Sun from the West by Ulas Samchuk in Kharkov, a novel which for decades had been considered missing. Together with The Mountains speak!, it creates a characteristic dylogy, which is bonded by the Carpathian space. The author of the paper refers to the findings of the French scholar Bertrand Westphal concerning focalization. The author also makes an attempt to capture the essence of the allogeneic perspective, which consists of two approaches – the autochthon’s one and the voyager’s.
PROSPECTS FOR APPLYING A NEW APPROACH TO INCREASING FARMERS ' ACCESS TO CREDIT RESOURCES (USING THE EXAMPLE OF AZERBAIJAN)
Authors:   Ph.D student of Finance and financial institutions of Azerbaijan State University of Economics, Baku, Azerbaijan, DADASHOV А. А.
Published: September 2021

The article analyzes the current situation with the access of farms to credit resources in the country and the world, a new approach to facilitating farmers ' access to credit resources is proposed. Surveys within the framework of the farm data monitoring system on the information base of the Center for Agrarian Research under the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Azerbaijan revealed the current state of access of agricul-tural producers to financial and credit resources. The new approach addresses issues related to the imple-mentation of intermediary and guarantee functions by research institutes of the agricultural sector. The posi-tive influence of the latter on creditworthiness is shown due to the mediation between the bank and the farmer.
DIGITAL COMPETENCE OF CIVIL SERVANTS AS A RISK FACTOR FOR THE REPUTATION OF GOVERNMENT UNDER CONDITIONS OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION (AT THE REGIONAL LEVEL)
Authors:   Dr. of Sci. (Pedagogy), Cand. of Sci. (Economy), professor, Russian State University for the Humanities, Moscow, Russia, BOROVIKOVA T. V. , ROZANOVA N. N. ,   Cand. of Sci. (Pedagogy), associate professor, Smolensk State University, Smolensk, Russia
Published: September 2021

The article actualizes the task of forming digital competence of civil servants from the position of value-based approach, the application of which can neutralize the risks of reducing the reputational potential of the authorities. These risks are associated with the problem of insufficiently high level of information openness of regional authorities in the conditions of digital transformation; the expediency of considering information open-ness as a significant indicator of digital maturity of public administration is substantiated.
DIGITAL SPECIALISTS IN PUBLIC AUTHORITIES: GOALS, TASKS, FEATURES
Authors:   Post-graduate student of the Institute of Public Administration and Management of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, GOLOVIN R. B. ,   employee of the Federal Agency for Fisheries, Moscow, Russia, RYPALOV V. G. ,   employee of AO “UAZ” , State Atomic Energy Corporation “Rosatom”, Moscow, Russia
Published: September 2021

The article is devoted to the consideration of some problems of the formation of a corps of qualified leaders of digital transformation in federal executive authorities.
FORMALIZATION OF STRATEGIC SUSTAINABILITY MANAGEMENT OF TRANSPORT ENTERPRISES
Authors:   candidate of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, a teacher of of the Department of Information Systems, Technologies and Automation in Construction of the National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, Moscow, Russia, GRIGORIEVA S. V.
Published: September 2021

The article highlights a systematic approach to the formation of a strategic stability management system for a transport enterprise. The transport enterprise is considered as an open socio-ecological-economic sys-tem. In this aspect, the essence and life cycle of the strategic sustainability management system of the enter-prise are considered. The main administration is considered as the technological basis of the strategic stability management system of the enterprise.
INNOVATIONS IN THE SYSTEM OF INTERNAL STATE (MUNICIPAL) FINANCIAL CONTROL OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors:   student, Institute of Public Administration and Management, RANEPA, Moscow, Russia, DOLGOPOLOVA M. A.
Published: September 2021

This article highlights the theoretical foundations of internal state financial control implemented in the Russian Federation. In this aspect, innovations in the legal regulation of the activities of control bodies are considered, in particular, fundamental changes in the provisions of the Budget Code of the Russian Federation concerning the organization of internal state (municipal) financial control are considered. The processes of optimization and structuring of control powers in the field of state (municipal) purchases are considered. The upcoming stages of introducing innovations in the system of internal state financial con-trol are highlighted.
SOLVING LOGISTICS PROBLEMS AND OPTIMIZING SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT USING BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY
Authors:   PhD in Economics, Senior Researcher of Energy Economic Problems Laboratory, Central Economics and Mathematics Institute RAS, Moscow, Russia, FILKIN M. E. , BOZHKO M. A. ,   Chief Information Officer, Smoove Xperience PTE LTD, Singapore
Published: September 2021

The article is devoted to the analysis of the advantages and risks of using distributed ledger technology in the tasks of logistics and supply chain management. The specificity of the blockchain system makes it possible to solve a number of critical problems of sales management in an enterprise, and, apparently, in one form or another, it will be introduced into economic and business practice. The use of technology will require a number of economic, legal and technological solutions, as well as taking into account new types of risks.
CONTROL OF INDERECT COSTS IN THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
Authors:   postgraduate student of the Department “Accounting and Taxation” of Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Russia, AYMAN ALGHBEIN
Published: September 2021

The calculation of direct costs, which mainly consist of consumables and labor, is not difficult for special-ists. Indirect costs, also known as overhead costs, often create problems for the accountant when determining the exact cost price. The article considers the issue of calculating indirect costs as a new, more improved approach to calculating the final cost of an object and its costs. The article considers an example of the use of ABC in the construction of a library hall and its potential advantages compared to traditional costs. The project can cover cost control by implementing an activity-based cost calculation system.
DEVELOPMENT OF NEW FORMS OF TRADE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors:   Plehanov Russian Economic University, Moscow, Russia, FILIN S. A. , POMAZKIN P. V. ,   Plehanov Russian Economic University, Moscow, Russia
Published: September 2021

The article analyzes the dynamics of the development of new forms of trade in historical retrospect, the relationship of new forms of trade with the emergence of new trends in certain segments of commercial activ-ity, proposed recommendations for the effective development of new forms of retail trade organization.
THE IMPACT OF LONG-TERM THREATS OF CLIMATE WARMING AND A PANDEMIC ON THE GLOBAL OIL MARKET
Authors:   Candidate of Geographical Sciences, Lead Engineer, Central Economics and Mathematics Institute of RAS, Moscow, Russia, EVSEEVA O. V.
Published: September 2021

The global oil market is currently being heavily impacted by the build-up of renewable energy power plants due to the threat of a warming climate. Many countries have decided to restructure the energy sector to minimize the burning of fossil fuels. This decision reduces the demand for oil and forces a revision of long-term oil market forecasts. The virulent COVID-2019 virus, which emerged in late 19, has caused a massive pandemic. The pandemic has markedly reduced human activity in all countries and, in the absence of effective drugs to deal with this virus and its many strains, poses additional long-term threats to both the global econ-omy and the oil market. This is confirmed by the forecasts of oil companies and think tanks discussed in this article.
INTERNATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE AGENDA AND RUSSIA
Authors:   Candidate of Philology, Professor, Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, IVANOV O. V. , IVANOVA M. A. ,   Candidate of Philosophical Sciences, Associate Professor, Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University) Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, TKACHENKO M. V. ,   Executive Director of the National Center for Public-Private Partnership, Moscow, Russia
Published: September 2021

The new phenomena of the world infrastructure practice are analyzed in the context of the paradigm of sustainable development. Special attention is paid to the conceptual and doctrinal design of new approaches to infrastructure development – the concepts of sustainable and high-quality infrastructure, responsible in-vestment. The efforts of the Russian Federation in this area are considered through the prism of the main trends in global infrastructure development. Conclusions are drawn about the key barriers that hinder the full-fledged development of the infrastructure complex, suggestions and recommendations are made on improv-ing approaches to the infrastructure development of Russia to achieve sustainable development.
THE INFLUENCE OF THE AMERICAN-CHINESE CONFRONTATION ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF NATIONAL INTERESTS OF RUSSIA PART 1: US ANTI-CHINESE ACTIVITIES AGAINST PRC
Authors:   Doctor of Military Sciences, Professor of the Russian Academy of National Economy and Public Service under the President of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, GORDIENKO D. V.
Published: September 2021

The purpose of the study is to assess the impact of the prospects for the realization of the national interests of the Russian Federation in the context of the anti-Chinese activities of the United States in the confrontation with the PRC and the aggravation of the struggle for leadership between the United States and China. An approach to the analysis of trends that determine the interdependence of the countries of the stra-tegic triangle Russia – China – the United States is proposed. An approach to assessing the prospects for the implementation of the national interests of the Russian Federation is proposed, which allows us to give a forecast of the development of relations between the countries of the named strategic triangle. The results of the analysis can be used to justify recommendations to the leadership of our country. It is concluded that the Russian Federation, China and the United States are important partners for each other.
Enhancing the resonance characteristics of circular patch antenna for SHF applications
Authors:   Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Jeddah, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Nahas Mousaab M.
Published: September 2021

Microstrip patch antenna is attractive for various applications due to its easy fabrication, low cost and small size. It simply comprises of a radiating patch and ground plane that are separated by a dielectric substrate. However, the resonance bandwidth of the microstrip antenna is still an issue that needs to be considered in research. This paper aims to enhance the bandwidth of a microstrip antenna or introduce more resonant frequencies within the Super High Frequency (SHF) band. The paper demonstrates empirical results for circular-shaped patch antenna using the High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS). It begins by investigating different patch sizes and substrate materials, so that an optimal preliminary design is introduced. Then, different slot shapes are inserted into the patch for significant enhancement of the resonance characteristics. As a result, new ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna designs are presented with bandwidth results reaching 15.5 GHz within the C, X, Ku and K bands. Also, new multiband antenna designs are presented with improved reflection valleys in the Ku, K and Ka bands.
Multiple Road-Objects Detection and Tracking for Autonomous Driving
Authors:   College of Eng. & Tech., American University of the Middle East, Kuwait., Farag Wael
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a real-time road-Object Detection and Tracking (LR_ODT) method for autonomous driving is proposed. The method is based on the fusion of lidar and radar measurement data, where they are installed on the ego car, and a customized Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) is employed for their data fusion. The merits of both devices are combined using the proposed fusion approach to precisely provide both pose and velocity information for objects moving in roads around the ego car. Unlike other detection and tracking approaches, the balanced treatment of both pose estimation accuracy and its real-time performance is the main contribution in this work. The proposed technique is implemented using the high-performance language C++ and utilizes highly optimized math and optimization libraries for best real-time performance. Simulation studies have been carried out to evaluate the performance of the LR_ODT for tracking bicycles, cars, and pedestrians. Moreover, the performance of the UKF fusion is compared to that of the Extended Kalman Filter fusion (EKF) showing its superiority. The UKF has outperformed the EKF on all test cases and all the state variable levels (-24% average RMSE). The employed fusion technique show how outstanding is the improvement in tracking performance compared to the use of a single device (-29% RMES with lidar and -38% RMSE with radar).
Correlation between experimental and analytic approaches to study the erosion rate of aluminum-metal matrix composites
Authors:   Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, Gazipur-1700, Bangladesh, CHOWDHURY M. ASADUZZAMAN , DEBNATH U. KUMAR ,   Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, Gazipur-1700, Bangladesh, KCHAOU M. ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Bisha, Saudi Arabia, SHUVHO B. AHMED ,   Department of Industrial & Production Engineering, National Institute of Textile engineering and Research (NITER), Savar, Dhaka-1350, Bangladesh, RAHMAN A. ,   Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, Gazipur-1700, Bangladesh, ROY B. KUMAR ,   Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology, Gazipur-1700, Bangladesh
Published: September 2021

The incorporation of a ceramic particles like SiC, Al2O3, and TiO2 into aluminum matrices results in Aluminum composite better mechanical and physical properties that make them attractive for various applications such as Aircraft, Helicopter, High-speed automobile, and Submarine. In this study, the erosion properties of the aluminum composite were studied in dry conditions using sand blast-erosion test rig. Impact velocity, standoff distance, particle size, particulate (wt. %), and impingement angle were preferred as control factors. Taguchi method, Grey relational and regression analysis were considered for optimizing the erosion process parameters. L27 orthogonal array was determined for the experimental trials. The most significant factors in the process were identified. Nonlinear regression model has been developed for Grey Relational Grade in relation to the different erosion parameters. An optimization schema is established based on a correlation between analytic and experimental results.
BIM-based Facility Management Models for Existing Buildings
Authors:   Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, Qatar University, PO Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar, Naji Karim Soliman, Khalid , Gunduz Murat ,   Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, Qatar University, PO Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar, Tokdemir Onur B. ,   Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, Qatar University, PO Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar, Faqih Faisal ,   Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, Qatar University, PO Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar, Zayed Tarek ,   Department of Civil and Architectural Engineering, Qatar University, PO Box: 2713, Doha, Qatar
Published: September 2021

Building Information Modeling (BIM) is mainly used for the design and construction of new buildings. However, one of the main challenges facing BIM adoption for existing or old buildings constructed without consideration for their modeling is obtaining raw and accurate building data and converting it to the BIM model. Based on this challenge, this study develops a framework that uses different data capture techniques for existing buildings, then transforms this captured data into 3D BIM models through which it can improve its management processes as facilities during their service life. Specifically, 3D laser scanning techniques were used to capture indoor building data, while drones equipped with high-definition cameras (UAV) were used to capture outdoor building data such as geometric dimensions, material shapes, surfaces and various shapes. Then the captured data was converted into a high-resolution 3D model. This has been verified the accuracy of this engineering model by converting the two-dimensional engineering plans to three-dimensional through the well-known engineering design tools. Moreover, the 3D model has been integrated with the Web Based Building Management System (BMS) platform. This research framework helps in developing engineering facility management processes and modern digital transformation processes that aim at speeding up facility management during their service period using modern technologies. This study aims to develop current knowledge in the construction industry and facility management by reviewing a comprehensive understanding of how to use modern technologies to obtain various information to develop BIM models for existing and non-modeled buildings in order to exploit and integrate them with advanced facility management systems and platforms, which constitutes a major progress in this field allowing to save a lot of effort and money in the future.
Developing Photovoltaic Cells Parameter Estimation Algorithm Based on Equilibrium Optimization Technique
Authors:   Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Aswan University, 81542 Aswan, Egypt, Ramadan TechniqueAbdelhady , Kamel Salah ,   Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Aswan University, 81542 Aswan, Egypt, Neggaz Nabil ,   Université des Sciences et de la Technologie d’Oran Mohamed Boudiaf, USTO-MB, BP 1505, EL M’naouer, 31000 Oran, Algeria, Alghamdi Ali S. ,   Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Majmaah University, Almajmaah 11952, Saudi Arabia
Published: September 2021

Nowadays all the world does its best to develop the power generation systems that depend on nature in order to reduce the dependence on fuel. Photovoltaic (PV) systems are considered one of the most important renewable energy resources. Scientific research has gained a high interest, especially in PV cell modeling and parameter estimation. The estimation of optimum parameters for the PV model has been considered the main target of the paper optimization problem. Equilibrium optimization (EO) algorithm is considered one of optimization algorithms inspired from nature physical phenomena. EO algorithm has been inspired from the nature physical process of controlling mass balance through specific volume until reaching equilibrium state. In this paper, an EO algorithm has been proposed and applied to prepare a mathematical model for photovoltaic solar cell. The challenge in this optimization problem is the non-linearity in PV solar cell characteristic. The EO algorithm has been evaluated through the following items. EO has been applied to estimate the parameters of different PV models such as single, double and triple PV models, which have different complexity. Applying the previous item for real PV application. The obtained results have been compared though different functions such as root mean square value and absolute mean error. In all cases, EO obtained results have been compared with the more recent optimization algorithms such as Particle swarm optimization (PSO), Teaching learn Based Optimization (TLBO) and Harries Hawk optimization (HHO). From the all obtained results, EO algorithm gives more accurate PV models in comparison with other optimization algorithms.
Effect of magnetic field on fluid flow characteristics and augmentation of heat transfer in a heat exchanger
Authors:   Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh, 11432, Saudi Arabia., Almeshaal Mohammed , Saha Sujoy ,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, Academy of Technology, Aedconagar, Hooghly -712121, West Bengal, India.
Published: September 2021

The study of fluid flow, subjected to an external magnetic field has become an attractive and demanding research area because of its huge applications. In this work, water base magnetic nanofluid dynamics, taking into account the Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) phenomenon has been explicitly investigated. In this study, governing equations are coupled with Magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) and are solved with the help of a finite volume procedure based on a control volume approach. The numerical outcomes of the simulation are depicted and discussed sequentially in terms of different contour and flow parameters. The impact of Magnetic number arising from Magneto Hydro Dynamics (MHD) ranging from 302 to 377 for a fixed Reynolds number of 100 on the flow characteristics has been presented in detail. The flow parameters like wall shear and pressure of wall are increased with increasing Magnetic number and the number of recirculating bubbles increases with decreasing in Magnetic number. Thus, to generate the maximum number of recirculating bubbles,a lower magnetic number is being recommended. The formation of the recirculating zone increases the retention time of fluid which results in the enhancement of heat transfer for a specific surface of a heat exchanger.
Testing an aerobic fluidized biofilm process to treat intermittent flows of oil polluted wastewater
Authors:   Department of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Al Khobar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Shaik Feroz , Mohammed Nayeemuddin ,   Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, Prince Mohammad Bin Fahd University, Al Khobar, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Published: September 2021

An aerobic fluidized biofilm process of treating oil-polluted wastewater has been studied. A series of batch experiments were conducted using synthetic wastewater and the kinetic coefficients were evaluated. The maximum rate of substrate utilization per unit mass microorganisms (K) was 1.6 days-1, the substrate concentration at one-half the maximum growth rate (Ks) was 26 mg/L, the maximum specific growth rate (m) was 1.0 days-1, the ratio of the mass cells formed to the mass of substrate consumed (Y) was 0.61, and the endogenous decay coefficient (Kd ) was 0.044 days-1. The kinetic coefficients obtained were within the range of municipal wastewater. It was observed that up to 1500 mg/L oil (Motor oil SAE–40) could be degraded in a fluidized bed bioreactor (FBBR). The experiments, however, were limited to the oil concentration within a range of 1000-2600 mg/L. Average biofilm thickness () under specific conditions was found to be 22 m and average oil degradation rate of 0.053 mg oil/mg biomass/hour was measured in the FBBR. The results also support that the increase in the concentration of oil in the treatment process reduced significantly the degradation rate of non-oil carbon.
BTEX and Nitrogen Oxides fume Assessments in Fuel Dispense Stations and Residential Areas
Authors:   Department of Chemical Engineering, College of Technological Studies, Public Authority for Applied Education and Training, PO. Box 42325, Shuwaikh 70654, Kuwait., Alenezi Raslan A.
Published: September 2021

Fuel vapors are released from storage tanks through vent pipes and from filling pump fuel dispensary stations. These petroleum-based by-products are introduced into ambient atmospheres and neighboring areas and may become a potential health risk. To investigate the quantity of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) concentrations as they are considered air pollutants and proven that they have negative health impacts on human. A selected fuel dispensing stations within Kuwaiti residential areas, passive samplers were deployed within selected fuel stations and also several residential areas for one week. Findings reveal that the concentration of BTEX at the fuel dispensing stations was significantly elevated than it was for the breathing pipe in residential areas. The concentration of benzene of 5.5 μg/m3 is slightly higher than the mean ambient concentrations in the rural and urban areas that 1 μg/m3 and 5–20 μg/m3, respectively. The levels are higher near such sources of benzene emission as fuel dispensing stations. As a result, the benzene close to the fuel stations is higher up to 70 μg/m3. Emissions escalate during weather change because of meteorological variables like temperature and wind direction influence dispersion of noxious compounds in the ambient air. With significant additions of harmful petroleum products into Kuwaiti air, a weary for respiratory and digestive implications may be paving the way to cause an ecological uproar. Hence, the government should use this baseline data and provide guidance to fuel dispensary stations for an improved method of fuel dispense, improvising fuel storing to minimise temperature change for fuel state preservation and, use of nozzles that increase dispensary speeds while minimising vapour production.
Dynamic Compaction of Sandy Soils in Kuwait – A Case Study
Authors:   Civil Engineering Department, Kuwait University, Kuwait, Ismael By Nabil F. , Al-Otaibi Monera ,   Civil Engineering Department, Kuwait University, Kuwait
Published: September 2021

Ground improvement was required for construction of the Jaber Al Ahmed New City located about 25 km west of Kuwait City, Kuwait. Loose to medium poorly graded sands, and silty sands extended from ground level to a depth ranging from 5m to 9m. Dynamic compaction was employed, as an economic method, to increase the soil bearing capacity and reduce its compressibility for foundation design and construction. The testing program included borings and sampling, Standard Penetration Tests, Cone Penetration Tests and Pressuremeter Tests before and after dynamic compaction. The area covered in this study is about 31415m2. The results indicated significant ground improvement, and satisfaction of the specified acceptance criteria resulting in an allowable soil pressure, for shallow foundation design, equal to or exceeding 300 kN/m2.
Influence of Compaction on the Properties of Remolded Cemented Sands
Authors:   Civil Engineering Department, Kuwait University, Kuwait, AL-Sanea Aseel R. , Ismael Nabil F. ,   Civil Engineering Department, Kuwait University, Kuwait
Published: September 2021

The properties and behaviour of compacted cemented sands in Kuwait were examined by laboratory and model tests. Upon excavation the cementation bonds are destroyed and the material, locally known as gatch, is transformed into clayey sands with fines content (<0.075 mm) ranging from 20% to 40%. Testing included basic properties, compaction, permeability, direct shear and consolidation tests. Model tests were also carried out on a circular plate loaded on compacted soils to failure. The test soil was compacted to a relative compaction of 85%, 90%, 95% and 100%. The results indicate a significant decrease in the ultimate bearing capacity and the shear strength parameters c, ϕ, and an increase in the compressibility parameters Cc, Cs and the permeability as the relative compaction decreases from 100% to 85%. The rate of variation of the various soil parameters with relative compaction is examined.
Pott’s Puffy Tumor - Overview of case series
Authors: Bem Junior Luiz Severo , Medeiros Márcia Noelle Cavalcante , Gadelha Luan de Sá Pinto Nóbrega , Neri Wagner José Raia , Cavalcanti Marie Anne Gomes
Published: September 2021

Pott’s puffy tumor (PPT) is rare and usually seen as a complication of frontal sinusitis that has been neglected or partially treated, resulting in subperiosteal abscess of the frontal bone with underlying osteomyelitis, which can lead to life-threatening intracranial complications, such as epidural/subdural empyema, cerebral abscess and meningitis. Given this, the purpose of the present study was to gather the most diverse cases reported together to highlight the main treatment methods. Methods: It is a narrative review, starting from the search in the database PubMed, Lilacs and Scielo from 2010 to 2020, which resulted in 34 scientific articles. The search focused on obtaining data on new approaches and treatments established for Pott’s puffy tumor. Results: 34 articles were included which described 58 patients with a swollen Pott tumor, occurring predominantly in male adolescents, with streptococci (26,1%) as the main etiologic agent. Approximately 84% of all patients were male subjects. The most prevalent intracranial complication was an epidural or extradural abscess (84,2%). Regarding PTT therapy, all patients received antibiotic therapy (ATB), and the main empirical antimicrobial scheme used was cephalosporin third generation, with vancomycin and metronidazole. In most cases, surgery was performed using several techniques, mainly an external surgical approach, external drainage (ED) of the subperiosteal abscess associated with endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). In general, the prognosis is favorable, even if neurological symptoms are present at admission. Conclusion: Based on available literature, PPT is a profoundly serious complication, which can be easily avoided if treated with the ATB, ED and ESS triad immediately, and, if necessary, craniotomy.