bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responsabiliser les relais communautaires pour le traitement préventif intermittent saisonnier du paludisme (TPI) au Sénégal : enjeux, modalités, défis
Authors: Faye Sylvain Landry
Published: May 2012

Résumé Depuis 2006, le Sénégal a changé sa politique de traitement du paludisme. Il expérimente aussi le traitement préventif intermittent (TPI) saisonnier chez l’enfant, pour proposer sa généralisation. Cet article analyse la faisabilité de cette stratégie, dont l’une des singularités est la responsabilisation des relais communautaires pour son administration. Les résultats issus des recherches qualitatives (entretiens approfondis, observations directes, focus-group) auprès des prestataires (relais) et bénéficiaires (populations) révèlent des décalages dans les mises en œuvre du TPI saisonnier par les relais communautaires. Cette situation est expliquée par une faible disponibilité de l’information et de la connaissance des recommandations techniques. Elle s’est révélée acceptable par ces acteurs, car elle est perçue comme un outil important dans leur stratégie de professionnalisation. Elle contribue à renforcer leurs savoirs tirés de l’expérience qui leur permettent de gagner en compétences et en légitimité dans le champ de la santé. Cependant, sa faisabilité à une grande échelle reste encore déterminée par les caractéristiques particulières du monde des relais communautaires (diversité, emploi salarié, conflits, dynamiques de coopératives et autonomisation). Les ambitions de professionnalisation de ces acteurs et leurs revendications d’utilité présagent de dynamiques importantes dans le champ de la lutte contre le paludisme au Sénégal.
Developmental and moult cycle related biochemical changes in larvae of the spider crab, Maja brachydactyla (Brachyura: Majidae)
Authors: Rotllant Guiomar , Guerao Guillermo , Sastre Marta , Anger Klaus
Published: May 2012

Ontogenetic changes in dry weight, elemental composition (CHN), and digestive enzyme activities (total protease, amylase) were studied during the moulting cycle of all larval instars (zoea I-II, megalopa; ZI, ZII, M) of the spider crab Maja brachydactyla Balss, 1922 reared in the laboratory. A gradual but significant increase in biomass was observed throughout the zoeal instars, followed by steeper growth in the megalopa. Maximum values were reached in moult stage D2. Digestive enzyme activities also increased significantly throughout larval development. The ZI showed a continuous increase in total protease activity during its moult cycle, suggesting that newly hatched larvae have a gradually increasing need to take up proteins to provide amino acids, which are prime materials for growth and development, and possibly to use them as a metabolic energy source. The largest variations in digestive enzyme activites in relation to the moult cycle were observed in the megalopa instar. After an initial increase in postmoult, enzyme activities decreased to low levels similar to those measured in the zoeal instars at intermoult, followed by another increase to a maximum level in premoult. Metamorphosis involves great physiological and behavioural changes, which could explain the large variations in the megalopa moult cycle. We therefore suggest that the moult cycle stages should be taken into account when nutritional condition indices are used to estimate the physiological performance of decapod crustacean larvae.
The fate of eggs and larvae of three pelagic species, mackerel (Scomber scombrus), horse mackerel (Trachurus trachurus) and sardine (Sardina pilchardus) in relation to prevailing currents in the Bay of Biscay: Could they affect larval survival?
Authors: Alvarez Paula , Chifflet Marina
Published: May 2012

The spatial distribution of eggs and larvae of three pelagic species, mackerel, horse mackerel and sardine, in the Bay of Biscay was studied in 1998, 2001 and 2004. The spatial distribution was clearly different between the years studied and corresponds quite precisely to different water circulation regimes. Mackerel and horse mackerel larvae are more affected by the prevailing currents than sardine, as their spawning grounds are located offshore, far from the shelf break where the current velocities are higher. Survival rates for mackerel and horse mackerel were higher in 2001, when the offshore larval transport was stronger. However, for sardine, the mortality rate hardly varied between years. The abundance of 25-day-old larvae, considered as an index of the survival rate, appears to be a good recruitment indicator, at least for 1998, 2001 and 2004. Our results did not support the hypothesis of Bakun (1996), which states that dispersion of early life stages towards open ocean waters should cause high larval mortality. At least under the conditions observed for the years studied, the retention of larvae offshore appears to have a positive effect on larval growth and/or survival.
A bio-economic evaluation of the potential for establishing a commercial fishery on two newly developed stocks: The Ionian red shrimp fishery
Authors: Guillen Jordi , Maynou Francesc , Floros Christos , Sampson David , Conides Alexis , Kapiris Kostas
Published: May 2012

It has recently been shown that two deep-water red shrimp species (Aristeus antennatus and Aristaeomorpha foliacea) have the potential to support a viable fishery in the Greek Ionian Sea (eastern Mediterranean). In this article, we investigate (i) the evolution that this newly developed trawl shrimp fishery may undergo when subjected to different management measures, and (ii) the most suitable extraction rates considering the uncertainties about the resource. We further analyse the effects that potential future fuel price increases and changes in the market may have on the fishery. Forecasting the biological and economic consequences of management actions, as well as the effects of market changes on inputs and outputs before they are applied, may help managers select the most suitable management options. We approach the problem by means of bio-economic simulation analysis. The results of this study show that fishing effort can increase by 50-100%, increasing the fleet’s profitability without jeopardizing the sustainability of the fishery.
Les archives d’un prêtre savant à Istanbul : traces et supports mémoriels d’une communauté
Authors: Théodoridès Anna
Published: May 2012

Cet article revient sur une enquête conduite auprès d’un prêtre orthodoxe rûm d’Istanbul qui, pour ne pas oublier, archive, sous forme de collections d’objets éclectiques, l’histoire de la communauté rûm, et en particulier du pogrom de la nuit du 6 au 7 septembre 1955. La constitution de ces collections résulte d’un travail actif de mobilisation de témoins et de récolte de pièces à conviction. Entreposés dans son « grenier », lieu de résistance et de non-capitulation, les objets sont assemblés selon un dispositif muséographique, au sein duquel mémoires individuelle et collective sont interconnectées. À partir de ce dispositif, il s’agit d’analyser la manière dont le prêtre construit ces collections comme un ensemble signifiant de supports de mémoire appelés à devenir des preuves pour l’histoire.
Strain Energy Release Rate in Treated Circumferentially Cracked Spring Steel
Authors: V. Arun K. , V. Swetha K.
Published: May 2012

The suspension system is a prominent piece of material that plays a vital role in the stability of a vehicle. During the service, the suspension system is subjected to different environmental conditions, at the same time it has to sustain a variety of loads. The damage of the springs is mainly attributed by its load carrying capacity under fatigue loading. Fatigue strength is the most important property for the spring steel. The energy release rate is an important parameter used to predict the life of the springs. In this experimental analysis, the authors investigate the performance of spring steel under the action of fatigue loads. The specimen preparation and the experimentations have been carried out according to the American Society for Testing of Materials (ASTM) standards. From the experiments, the strain energy release rate of the spring steels has been determined. The effects of tempering and cryogenic treatments on the performance of the spring steel have also been determined. The results have revealed that the fatigue strength and the crack growth resistance have increased with quenching and cryogenic treatments.
Consumer Perceptions on Security, Privacy, and Trust on E-Portals
Authors: Reddy Anuradha , Prasad G. V. Bhavani
Published: May 2012

With the introduction of Internet and e-commerce many companies have been performing their business transactions through e-portals. Increasing technology has bought tremendous changes in online business transactions (buying and selling). This paper examines consumer perceptions of varying characteristics of e-portals, identifies various factors that influence consumer trust and privacy e-portals, and analyzes how various security and privacy factors affect consumer perceptions toward e-portals. A survey questionnaire consisting 21 questions was developed and mailed to 150 e-commerce (B2B and B2C) consumers in 3 emirates of UAE wherein 108 individuals responded. Questions were developed from a literature review of news, as well as security and privacy issues. Factor analysis that included principal component analysis and varimax rotation was performed on all multiple scale items that determined retention of items. Results indicated that most participants are concerned about security and privacy issues while they are using e-portals, but few participants stated that security is the main issue that creates a barrier for their online shopping. Most participants are not aware of internet privacy and security policies and are not interested in knowing technology used for security of e-portals.
Improving Quality Assurance with CDIO Self-Evaluation
Authors: Kontio Juha , Roslöf Janne , Edström Kristina , Naumann Sara , Hussmann Peter Munkebo , Schrey-Niemenmaa Katriina , Karhu Markku
Published: May 2012

The main goal of the Nordic project Quality Assurance in Higher Education was to develop and implement a self-evaluation model in the participating Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) to support their quality assurance work and continuous curriculum development. Furthermore, the project aimed at strengthening the cooperation of HEIs in quality assurance (QA) and disseminating good practices of QA. The framework of development is based on the CDIO approach and the CDIO self-evaluation process. The main results are a detailed definition of the self-evaluation process, well-documented self-evaluations of the participating degree programmes, and the identification of the main development areas and actions in each participating degree programme. Furthermore, the project has increased the partners’ understanding of other partners and their challenges. Finally, quality assurance has been enhanced in each participating programme and new ideas and support for quality assurance work in other higher education institutes have been produced.
Mathematical Models of Dynamic Behavior of Individual Neural Networks of Central Nervous System
Authors: Pagania Dimitra-Despoina , Adamopoulos Adam , Likothanassis Spiridon
Published: May 2012

In this paper, the authors present mathematical models that describe individual neural networks of the Central Nervous System. Three cases are examined, varying in each case the values of the refractory period and the synaptic delay of a neuron. In the case where both the refractory period and the synaptic delay are bigger than one, the authors split the population of neurons into sub-groups with their own distinct synaptic delay. The proposed approach describes the neural regime of the network efficiently, especially in the case mentioned. Various examples with different network parameters are presented to investigate the network’s behavior.
Parameter Identification Using ANFIS for Magnetically Saturated Induction Motor
Authors: Ali Mohamed M. Ismail , Hassan M. A. Moustafa
Published: May 2012

The problem of controlling the p-model induction motor with magnetic saturation is considered in this paper. The motor parameters such that stator resistance Rs, rotor resistance Rr and load torque TL can be varied during the operation, many techniques are used for online identification of the motor parameters. In this paper, the authors use a new technique which is the Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference Systems (ANFIS) technique for online identification of the motor parameters. A simulation study is illustrated using MATLAB/Simulink depending on stator currents and speed measurements. All the unknown parameters are assumed constant or slowly varying and are estimated online by the controller. The proposed technique shows promising results.
Gain Scheduled Filtering Design for Parameter Varying System
Authors: Mahmoud Magdi S. , Jaradat Alaeddin K. , Saif Abdel Wahid
Published: May 2012

In this paper, the problem of gain-scheduled H8 filter design for a class of parameter-varying systems with time-varying delays is discussed. An improved stability and H8-performance condition of the augmented system is developed. A sufficient existence condition of a desired gain-scheduled H8 filter is derived and expressed in terms of feasibility testing of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) and explicit expressions of the filter gains are provided. Numerical simulations are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed design method.
Data Analysis
Authors: Serban Mihai
Published: May 2012

The author acknowledges that a systematic knowledge on the issues required destinations and criteria for classification of finished intelligence products. Understanding of all these constituents is required to provide many effective tools for intelligence operators and especially for the legal beneficiaries of the results of intelligence activities. Based on these elements it can be said that intelligence analysis is a specialized approach of knowledge on a specific problem, in which methods and techniques (specific forms and modalities), including analytical nature, are used to formulate explanations. As this system is complex, society’s economic intelligence may be imposed in a consistent way, through the role it plays in securing an efficient company. To begin an analysis of areas, from the perspective of economic challenges, it should be noted that the combined effects of the evolution of doctrine is the idea of thought and economic theory.
Turning Homes into Low-Cost Ambient Assisted Living Environments
Authors: Dingli Alexiei , Attard Daniel , Mamo Ruben
Published: May 2012

Today motion recognition has become more popular in areas like health care. In real-time environments, the amount of information and data required to compute the user’s motion is substantial, while the time to collect and process this information are crucial parameters in the performance of a motion recognition system. The nature of the data determines the design of the system. One important aspect of this system is reducing the delay between sensing and recognising a motion, while achieving acceptable levels of accuracy. The detection of humans in images is a challenging problem. In this paper, the authors present a solution using the Kinect, a motion sensing input device by Microsoft designed for the Xbox 360 console, to create an Ambient Assisted Living (AAL) application which monitors a person’s position, labels objects around a room, takes voice input, and raises alerts in case of falls. The authors present a number of modules like converting Kinect Skeletal Data to allow mouse control via hand movement, building a Finite State Machine (FSM), obtaining pose information, voice commands to allow interaction with the application, and face detection and recognition. The authors use different algorithms to achieve the required outcome.
Automating the Generation of User Activity Timelines on Microsoft Vista and Windows 7 Operating Systems
Authors: O’Shaughnessy Stephen , Keane Anthony
Published: May 2012

For many computer forensics investigations, the discovery of the complete activity history of users is an essential part of the process; however, due to the complexity and variety of current modern personal computer operating systems, the availability of useful tools is limited. This limitation is based on the tools ability to retrieve the relevant data and present it to the investigator in a user friendly format. The current software tools that claim to extract user activity information put the onus on the investigator to construct the timeline from the data which can introduce errors and is time consuming. This paper discusses the development and evaluation of a new tool, the User Activity Tracker (UAT), which automates the visual presentation of the timeline process by retrieving and consolidating user activity data into a single source and producing as accurately as possible, the timeline of user activity on that computer. The UAT tool was tested against a modern commercial forensic tool and the results of this preliminary testing showed that the UAT tool was faster and required less manual intervention to produce a greater level of detail of the user’s activity than the commercial tool.
Single Machine Scheduling with Rejection
Authors: Moghaddam Atefeh , Amodeo Lionel , Yalaoui Farouk , Karimi Behrooz
Published: May 2012

In this paper, the authors consider a single machine scheduling problem with rejection. In traditional research, it is assumed all jobs must be processed. However, in the real-world situation, certain jobs can be rejected. In this study, the jobs can be either accepted and scheduled or be rejected at the cost of a penalty. Two objective functions are considered simultaneously: (1) minimization of the sum of weighted completion times for the accepted jobs, and (2) minimization of the sum of penalties for the rejected jobs. The authors apply two-phase method (TPM), which is a general technique to solve bi-objective combinatorial optimization problems, to find all supported and non-supported solutions for small-sized problems. The authors present a mathematical model for implementing both phases. On the other hand, three different bi-objective simulated annealing algorithms have also been developed to find a good estimation of Pareto-optimal solutions for large-sized problems. Finally the authors discuss the results obtained from each of these algorithms.
A Concept for Improving the Security and Efficiency of Multimodal Supply Chains
Authors: Scholliers Johan , Toivonen Sirra , Permala Antti , Lahtinen Timo
Published: May 2012

Multimodal supply chains are characterized by multiple changes of transport modes and vehicles. Hence the risks for theft, untimely delivery and freight quality deterioration increase. There is hence a growing need to manage the security and efficiency of consignments from door to door. This paper describes the results of the Finnish national SCIE (Supply Chain Security and Integrity) project, which had as main objective the development of a holistic framework for the management of the security and efficiency of supply chains. A profound risk analysis was performed to find key vulnerabilities of the service and suitable monitoring technology. The security service was developed to deal with the vast amount of actors in the multimodal supply chain, accurate transport plan data reception and the identification of exceptional situations. The service concept was tested by monitoring and analysing steel product shipments from Finland to Central Europe. Advanced intelligent monitoring devices were attached to the consignments. These devices gathered and transmitted in real-time environmental, transport stress and location information. The paper will give an overview of the framework, service concept and the analysed results of a multimodal shipment from Finland to Italy.
Test Data Generation Based on Test Path Discovery Using Intelligent Water Drop
Authors: Srivastava Praveen Ranjan , Patel Amitkumar , Patel Kunal , Vijaywargiya Prateek
Published: May 2012

Automatic test data generation is required to generate test cases dynamically for a specific software program. Manual generation of test data is too tedious and a time consuming task. This paper proposes a technique using Intelligent Water Drop (IWD) for automatic generation of test data. Correctly generated test data helps in reducing the effort while testing the software. This paper discusses different algorithms based on IWD to generate test data and path coverage over Control Flow Graph. Test data is generated keeping in mind all of the programming constraints like “if,” “while,” “do while,” etc., available in the program.
Resource Discovery Service while Minimizing Maintenance Overhead in Hierarchical DHT Systems
Authors: Mokadem Riad , Hameurlain Abdelkader , Tjoa A Min
Published: May 2012

Despite hierarchical Distributed Hash Table (DHT) systems have addressed flat overlay system problems, most of existing solutions add a significant overhead to large scale systems. This not only increases the bandwidth consumption but also affect the routing efficiency. This paper deals with a resource discovery while minimizing maintenance overhead in hierarchical DHT systems. The considered resources are metadata describing data sources. In the solution, only one gateway in one overlay is attached to the superior level overlay. It aims to reduce both lookup and maintenance costs while minimizing the overhead added to the system. The authors present a cost analysis for a resource discovery process and discuss capabilities of the proposed protocol to reduce the overhead of maintaining the overlay network. The analysis result proved that our design decrease significantly the maintenance costs in such systems especially when nodes frequently join/leave the system.
Investigating the Relationship Between Shopping Mall Patronage Motives and Customer Satisfaction Using Importance-Satisfaction Analysis
Authors: El-Adly Mohammed Ismail
Published: May 2012

Satisfying shoppers is crucial for a mall manager. To do this he/she must focus on attributes of importance to customers, or else he/she may waste resources on improving attributes that matter less. Importance-satisfaction analysis has a useful place in this regard. Therefore, this study identifies the importance-satisfaction gaps in the patronage attributes of shopping malls, as mall shoppers in the UAE perceive them. The author reviews different models of importance-satisfaction analysis and finds shortcomings in the four quadrant model and the diagonal model. To overcome these shortcomings, importance-satisfaction gap analysis is used and the author concludes that there are negative satisfaction gaps for most of the patronage attributes of shopping malls. Improvements should be directed to filling these gaps.
Six Sigma Based Integrated Mathematical Model for Optimizing Electronic Marketing Decisions
Authors: Fazlollahtabar Hamed
Published: May 2012

Web-based systems have been utilized widely. These systems enable consumers to be aware of the product and provide them additional information to set the final purchase. Therefore, configuring electronic marketing outlets is necessary. Here, the author points out different aspects of information technology (IT) in marketing. The author proposes an integrated mathematical framework to optimize decisions in web-based marketing environment considering online catalogues. Using the concepts of management information systems, the customers’ visit data of viewing the producers’ websites and web-based catalogues are recorded. These data are applied in marketing optimizations. The six sigma concept is considered as a threshold for attractiveness of customers on a product. The effectiveness and applicability of the proposed integrated model is illustrated in numerical examples.
Ontology-Based Clustering in a Peer Data Management System
Authors: Pires Carlos Eduardo Santos , Santiago Rocir Marcos Leite , Salgado Ana Carolina , Kedad Zoubida , Bouzeghoub Mokrane
Published: May 2012

Peer Data Management Systems (PDMSs) are advanced P2P applications in which each peer represents an autonomous data source making available an exported schema to be shared with other peers. Query answering in PDMSs can be improved if peers are efficiently disposed in the overlay network according to the similarity of their content. The set of peers can be partitioned into clusters, so as the semantic similarity among the peers participating into the same cluster is maximal. The creation and maintenance of clusters is a challenging problem in the current stage of development of PDMSs. This work proposes an incremental peer clustering process. The authors present a PDMS architecture designed to facilitate the connection of new peers according to their exported schema described by an ontology. The authors propose a clustering process and the underlying algorithm. The authors present and discuss some experimental results on peer clustering using the approach.
Multi Objective Resource Scheduling in LTE Networks Using Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Comsa Ioan Sorin , Aydin Mehmet , Zhang Sijing , Kuonen Pierre , Wagen Jean–Frédéric
Published: May 2012

The use of the intelligent packet scheduling process is absolutely necessary in order to make the radio resources usage more efficient in recent high-bit-rate demanding radio access technologies such as Long Term Evolution (LTE). Packet scheduling procedure works with various dispatching rules with different behaviors. In the literature, the scheduling disciplines are applied for the entire transmission sessions and the scheduler performance strongly depends on the exploited discipline. The method proposed in this paper aims to discuss how a straightforward schedule can be provided within the transmission time interval (TTI) sub-frame using a mixture of dispatching disciplines per TTI instead of a single rule adopted across the whole transmission. This is to maximize the system throughput while assuring the best user fairness. This requires adopting a policy of how to mix the rules and a refinement procedure to call the best rule each time. Two scheduling policies are proposed for how to mix the rules including use of Q learning algorithm for refining the policies. Simulation results indicate that the proposed methods outperform the existing scheduling techniques by maximizing the system throughput without harming the user fairness performance.
An Approach to Design a SOA Services Governance Architecture for an u-Healthcare System with Mobility
Authors: Yu Weider D. , Patel Jatin , Mehta Vishal , Joshi Ashish
Published: May 2012

Ubiquitous health (u-Health) system is focused on the concept of providing medical service and assistance to the patients “anywhere and anytime” regardless of their locations. Existing mobile u-Healthcare systems have problems in lacking one or the other S.C.A.L.E. (Scalability, Connectivity, Adaptability, Liability, and Ease-of-use) criterion that any ubiquitous system must support. They become expensive during set up, reconfiguration, and modification as no proper and efficient solution is available. Also, they lack security, privacy, and wireless accessibility features so all these problems can prevent the system from being expanded widely. The objective of this paper is to implement a u-Healthcare system based on wireless mobile technology using Service Oriented Architecture (SOA). Applying Service Governance of Service Oriented Architecture helps make all services more secure, reusable, interoperable, available, and imposes all the features a ubiquitous system should have. A prototype system uSG-Health was developed using the approach for demonstrating the functionality and ability of the proposed u-Healthcare system.
An Integrative View of Knowledge Sharing Impact on E-Learning Quality
Authors: Sohrabi Babak , Vanani Iman Raeesi , Qorbani Davood , Forte Peter
Published: May 2012

The era in which learning was limited to a special class of people has long since reached its end. Rapid changes in information technology, which affect all aspects of modern life, make continuous learning an inevitable requirement of prosperity and development. Knowledge sharing plays a significant role in the process of learning. E-learning is the latest process of knowledge sharing in which people intentionally share what they have learned and receive the latest knowledge from the provider of e-learning. In this regard, knowledge sharing has a major impact on e-learning quality as the sharing of knowledge comprises the core process of e-learning. In this paper, the authors propose utilizing influential knowledge sharing indicators for e-learning quality assessment that can provide an informative basis for further studies on quality measurement of e-learning processes.
Formal Development of Hierarchical Agent-Based Monitoring Systems for Dynamically Reconfigurable NoC Platforms
Authors: Ostroumov Sergey , Tsiopoulos Leonidas
Published: May 2012

Sophisticated applications deployed on multi-core platforms require many resources as well as dynamic monitoring of the platform to provide efficiently and reliably the needed functionality. In this paper, the authors propose an approach to formal modelling with adequate tool support of an agent-based system whose function is to dynamically monitor the state of the multi-core platform and perform reconfiguration procedures under faults. For this purpose, the authors use the Event-B formalism which allows them to stepwise develop correct-by-construction specifications by mathematical proofs. Furthermore, the formalism enables the decomposition of a specification, which makes it possible to implement a well-structured and hierarchical agent-based monitoring system.
Collective Creativity Management in Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Sartori Fabio
Published: May 2012

Developing conceptual and computational frameworks to support Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in formalizing their creativity, improving their capability to innovate, and limiting their drawbacks in tackling wider competitors is an important research topic in the Knowledge Management field. Although these companies are characterized by high levels of creativity, which allow them to design and manufacture innovative products, they have often significant technological gaps with respect to wider organizations and may suffer significantly in terms of loss of key personnel and company experiential knowledge and competences. This paper presents Complex Knowledge Structures (CKS), a methodological and computational framework for representation and management of collective creativity of SMEs based on storytelling and Case Based Reasoning (CBR) paradigms.
Evaluation of a Regional Reactivation Project by the WSR System Methodology
Authors: Nakamori Yoshiteru , Huang Yan
Published: May 2012

This paper presents a research result of promoting and evaluating a regional revitalization project based on the WSR system methodology. The paper introduces a regional revitalization project in Japan, and it explains the promotion and evaluation of the regional revitalization project by the WSR system methodology. From this research, the authors show that the WSR system methodology is useful in promoting as well as in evaluating such a social project.
Presence, Reciprocity and Robotic Mediations
Authors: Salvini Pericle
Published: May 2012

In this paper, the author proposes a theoretical framework for drawing a line between acceptable and non-acceptable technologies, with a focus on autonomous social robots. The author considers robots as mediations and their ethical acceptance as depending on their impact on the notion of presence. Presence is characterised by networks of reciprocity which make human beings subject and object of actions and perceptions at the same time. Technological mediation can either promote or inhibit the reciprocity of presence. A medium that inhibits presence deserves ethical evaluation since it prevents the possibility of a mutual exchange, thus creating a form of power. Autonomous social robots are a special kind of technological mediation because they replace human presence with a simulation of presence. Therefore, in interactions between human beings and autonomous robots, attention should be paid to the consequences on legal, moral, and social responsibility, and, at the same time, the impact of simulated forms of presence on human beings.
Personal Liability and Human Free Will in the Background of Emerging Neuroethical Issues
Authors: Stradella Elettra
Published: May 2012

In this paper, the author analyses the issues connected to emerging neurotechnologies, in particular their effects on (legal) concepts like capacity, liability, testimony, and evidence, and also on fundamental constitutional rights and freedoms like the right to autonomy and the right not to be treated without consent (in the general framework of the principle of human dignity). Starting from preliminary remarks on the key-concepts of neuroethics/technoethics, neurolaw/technolaw, the author investigates how personal liability is changing in the framework of new scientific developments. The paper underlines that neurolaw challenges some of the traditional legal institutions in the field of law (e.g., criminal law). From the point of view of ethics, the paper concludes that neuroethics is not challenged by the data coming from the use of emerging neurotechnologies, but human self-perception is strongly affected by it.
Prediction of Effective Heat Storage Coefficient of Multi-Phase Materials
Authors: Beniwal R.S. , Dabas Manju , Singh Ramvir
Published: May 2012

A theoretical model, to predict effective heat storage coefficient (HSC) from the values of HSCs of the constituent phases and their volume fractions for real two-phase systems is presented and is extended to three-phase moist materials, assuming an effective continuous medium (ECM) approach. Particles are assumed to be ellipsoidal in shape and arranged in three-dimensional cubic array. The arrangement has been divided into unit cells, each of which contains an ellipsoid. The HSC of the unit cell has been determined by applying resistor model. To take account of the non-linear flow of heat flux lines in real systems, incorporating an empirical correction factor in the place of physical porosity modifies an expression for HSC. An effort is made to correlate it in terms of the ratio of HSCs of the constituents and the physical porosity. To test the validity of the derived expression, the HSC of some building materials saturated with different liquids have been determined. The HSC of metal powders and metallic oxides at varying temperatures have also been determined. A good agreement has been found between the experimental and the predicted values reported in the literature.
The Meshfree Finite Element Method for Fluids with Large Deformations
Authors: Darbani Mohsen
Published: May 2012

The shallow water equations (SWE) is often simulated by using Eulerian descriptions. These phenomena may give rise to strong gradients and lead to large distortion of grids meshes. Hence classical finite elements methods may fall in simulating such problems. In this paper we present a meshless method, based on the natural element nethod (NEM). In a geometrical domain of a cloud of nodes, NEM uses the Voronoi cells and then its dual, namely Delaunay triangulation. Its main advantage lies in shape function of the natural neighbour interpolation, such that the position of natural neighbours is enough to its construction. To avoid the nonlinear term, the time material derivative term is discretized by a Lagrangian procedure. We also used an appropriate nodal integration technique to estimate integrals related to the diffusion, pressure and Coriolis terms because NEM shape functions are not polynomials and they are rational. For the diffusion term, the method of stabilized conforming nodal integration (SCNI) is proposed while for pressure and Coriolis terms a geometrical method will transform the integration over the cells domain to the integration over the edges. The method was successfully used to simulate dam-break flows by solving the fully 2D shallow water equations (SWE) by using an implicit scheme under a transient flow.
Numerical Modeling of Two Phase Flow under Centrifugation
Authors: Kačur Jozef , Malengier Benny , Kišon Pavol
Published: May 2012

Numerical modeling of two-phase flow under centrifugation is presented in 1D.A new method is analysed to determine capillary-pressure curves. This method is based onmodeling the interface between the zone containing only wetting liquid and the zone containingwetting and non wetting liquids. This interface appears when into a fully saturated sample withwetting liquid we inject a non-wetting liquid. By means of this interface an efficient and correctnumerical approximation is created based upon the solution of ODE and DAE systems. Bothliquids are assumed to be immiscible and incompressible. This method is a good candidate tobe used in solution of inverse problem. Some numerical experiments are presented.
Temperature Dependence of Elastic Properties of Aluminum Foam Structures
Authors: Hossein Hosseini Seyed Mohammad , Kharaghani Abdolreza , Kirsch Christoph , Öchsner Andreas
Published: May 2012

The temperature dependence of mechanical properties of aluminum foams has been investigated. Youngs modulus and Poissons ratio have been determined from simulations of a unidirectional tensile test using a finite element model of aluminum foam networks. The Youngs modulus of the network structure for different relative densities and foam cell regularity factors have been plotted over temperature. It has been found that the Youngs modulus decreases with increasing temperature, whereas the Poissons ratio remains constant. This trend has been observed for various foam structures of different sizes, relative densities and network irregularities.
The Thermal Diffusivity of Mg-Al-Sr and Mg-Al-Ca-Sr Sand Casting Magnesium Alloys
Authors: Kiełbus Andrzej , Rzychoń Tomasz , Moskal Grzegorz
Published: May 2012

In the present study, the thermal diffusivity of four sand casting magnesium alloys: Mg-9Al-1Zn, Mg-6Al-2Sr, Mg-9Al-1.5Ca-0.3Sr and Mg-9Al-2.2Ca-0.8Sr were studied. Sand casting was performed at 730-780°C temperatures. Thermal diffusivity was measured by a LFA 427 Netzsch apparatus. The thermal diffusivity of the investigated alloys was chemical composition and temperature dependent and increased with increasing temperature. The thermal diffusivity of Mg-Al-Ca-Sr alloys was higher than that of Mg-Al alloy, because the total volume fraction of intermetallic phases in alloys containing calcium and strontium is larger than that in Mg-Al alloy. The formation of intermetallic phases caused the consumption of the solute element in the α-Mg matrix, and improved the thermal diffusivity of the Mg-Al-Ca-Sr magnesium alloy.
Evaluation of the Use of Solids Waste Generated in the Activities of Exploration as Adsorbents for Treatment of Oil Derivatives
Authors: Souza W.C. , Miguens J.P.M. , Corrêa H.L. , Figueiredo M.A.G.
Published: May 2012

Currently, the biggest concern of different industries is the disposal of waste generated. The liquid effluents in general have more elaborate studies realizing alternatives for their treatment by reducing their toxicity or changing specifications for a return to the process, an internal recycling or even studying alternatives for recycling outside. In the case of solid waste, there are many papers on reuse. In general, the studies involve alternatives to reduce the possible toxicity and subsequent disposal. In some cases, the studies dealt with the residue already involve their use as material for construction (bricks). This work aims to evaluate two types of waste, namely, the drilling mud to clay-based generated by the activity of exploration and exploitation of oil and solid waste generated in the production process and catalyst for fluid catalytic cracking plant. In both cases, is currently the destination for industrial landfills, and the generating unit has to bear all expenses related to material handling. Our purpose in studying this waste, will initially study the temperature profiles. The dry material being ground and with a pre-determined size will be tested for physical-chemical, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF) to see the composition and ASAP to analyze the surface area and pore volume. With this material treated in bench tests will be performed to assess the capability of removing nitrogen and sulfur contaminants in lighter fractions of petroleum. Preliminary tests with the industrial base of sorbent clay and zeolite showed a good result. These tests serve as a basis for comparison with material obtained in the laboratory.
Recrystallization Microstructure after Annealing inside Magnetic Field
Authors: Bacaltchuk C.M.B. , Castello-Branco G.A. , Müller J.N. , Brandão L.P.M. , Garmestani Hamid
Published: May 2012

Magnetic annealing at 17T, 800°C, for 15 minutes was conducted to evaluate the effect of the field on the recrystallized microstructure of Fe-3.25%Si samples. According to X-ray results, the main texture components were found not to be affected by the field. The volume fraction of eta fiber was slightly increased and the gamma fiber, an unfavorable texture component for materials with magnetic application, was not decreased when compared to samples annealed without magnetic field.
Experimental Analysis of the Infrared Thermography for the Thermal Characterization of a Building Envelope
Authors: Ferreira G. , Aranda A. , Mainar-Toledo M.D. , Zambrana D.
Published: May 2012

nfrared thermography is being used to identify defects maps of the building envelope, based on the most suitable local thermal parameter. In spite of the fact that the TOBUS method [1] and the multivariate design method [2] consider several complicated building renovations, their applications on energy performance improvement are mainly inadequate [3]. In this research, the developed experimental and theoretical studies show, on the one hand, the thermal characterization (temperature distribution, heat losses and efficiency) of a full-scale building envelope. On the other hand, the applicability and accuracy of this optic technique for the thermal characterization of the building zone with complex geometry is discussed in order to validate results obtained for the thermal characterization.
Surface Quality Control of Materials Being Cut by Laser with Respect to Corrosion Resistance
Authors: Valíček Jan , Harničárová Marta , Čep Róbert , Rokosz Krzysztof , Łukianowicz Czesław , Kozak Dražan , Zeleňák Michal , Koštial Pavel
Published: May 2012

In the field of laser cutting, the research area is oriented mainly to understanding of the mechanism of removal, as well as to the combination of factors entering the process. This process of disintegration of materials presents a problem of analytical approximation, elaboration, and description [1 - . Compared with previous approach to a solution, we have chosen our own way and we focus on mechanical respectively stress-strain parameters of the material being cut and the mechanical balance system: material properties tool properties deformation properties. We shall present here the basic forms of prediction equations for calculating the roughness of cutting walls, as well as other equations which were derived by modifying the basic equations for different application purposes, especially to calculate the optimum traverse speed vpopt, optimal laser performance Wlasopt and technologically important ratio INDvpwopt = vpopt/Wlasopt. These contain easily available input variables for substitution. The basic forms, including the modified forms are aimed at predicting the quality of cut with its depth limits. The paper presents the method of optimization of the ratio between the traverse speed vpand laser power Wlas which minimizes the final surface roughness after cutting with a direct impact on corrosion resistance of materials.
Emission Distribution and Regulation of Local Heat Source
Authors: Valíček Jan , Müllerová Jana , Kuběna Vlastimil , Koštial Pavel , Harničárová Marta , Mikulík Marian
Published: May 2012

Pollutants can be classified according to their chemical composition, harmfulness, hazardousness, risk rate and toxicity. The most monitored pollutants are particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxide (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), organic substances which are in the form of gaseous phase in waste gases expressed as total organic carbon, dibenzodioxins and dibenzofurans [1-3]. Other pollutants are divided into several groups and subgroups, such as substances with carcinogenic effects (asbestos, Co, Cd, Be, Ni, As, Cr, dioxins, etc.), solid inorganic contaminants (He, Se, animony, and others) and inorganic pollutants in the form of gases (HCl, HF, ammonia, etc.), organic gases and vapours (phenol, toluene, acetone and many others) and gases causing the greenhouse effect (CO2, methane, N2O, hydrofluorocarbons, etc.). The term particulate matter, or suspended matter refers to the emissions of a wide range of wind drift solids and liquid particles of material in size from several nanometres up to 0.5 mm, which stay in the air for some time. This is a major component of atmospheric pollution, which contributes to harmful effects not only on human health but also on intensity of materials degradation. Into the atmosphere, where we can meet them, regardless of particle size and chemical composition, in the form of a complex heterogeneous mixture, they are released from burning fossil fuels and also from burning biomass-based fuels, while domestic heating accounts for about 16% of the total production of particulate matter [4,5,6]. This percentage represents a degree of imperfect combustion of fuels used in local heating. Emissions from incomplete combustion are undesirable from the point of view of human health as well as from the economic point of view, because this leads to the degradation of materials. Nevertheless, since fuel combustion is necessary for the society, emissions are still produced. This paper presents an automated method of perfect combustion control in local heating in order to minimize emissions being produced.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties Evaluations of Heat Treated Dissimilar Metal Joint Weldment between API 5CT C90 and ASTM A182 F22
Authors: Awang Mokhtar , Othman Mohd Hafiz , Ku Shaari Ku Zilati , Wichi Mohd Noorfahmi
Published: May 2012

In this research, post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) of dissimilar API 5CT C90 and ASTM A182 F22 welded pipe was carried out at temperatures of 500, 600, 700 and 800°C. The effects of PWHT on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the weldment were investigated. The mechanical tests and microstructure examinations were focused on the fusion line area of API 5CT C90 as this area is the most crucial part of the weldment. The main objective of this research is to assess the microstructure and mechanical properties of the dissimilar weldment. The results were then compared with NACE MR0175/ISO15156 code which requires hardness values below 275 Hv10 at a cap, below 250 Hv10 at a root and an average value 42 Joules at-20°C for charpy impact test [. The experimental results show that PWHT reduces the hardness value and increase the toughness of the weldment. Meanwhile, the optical microscopic examination shows that the higher the PWHT temperature, the coarser the grain size. The results showed that the 800°C PWHT specimen complied with the code.
Mass Transfer of Organic Substances in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Hu Miao , Benning Rainer , Ertunc Özgür , Delgado Antonio , Nercissian Vanusch , Berger Andreas
Published: May 2012

In this work special attention is paid on the direct visualization of the diffusion process of oil droplets in supercritical carbon dioxide as well as a better characterization of the process by quantitative evaluation of the diffusion coefficients obtained with a shearing interferometer. Experiments are also to be carried out under microgravity in to improve the experiment condition where the influence of gravity-driven convection that usually dominates the transport process is minimized.