bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semantically Integrated Conceptual Modeling Method and Modeling Patterns
Authors: Gustas Remigijus , Gustiene Prima
Published: June 2014

Managing evolutionary changes, identification of discontinuities, and separation of concerns is not an easy task in the area conceptual modeling in information system development. One of the fundamental problems is that most conventional conceptual modeling techniques deal with the collection of loosely linked meta-models, which are defined by different types of diagrams. Typically, system development methods project interactive, behavioral, and structural aspects of information systems' conceptual representations into disparate views. Therefore, the semantic integrity of various architecture dimensions is difficult to achieve. In this chapter, the authors present a semantically integrated conceptual modeling method. The advantage of this method is stability and flexibility of the diagrams to manage the constant changes of system requirements. This method provides the possibility to visualize the interplay among structural, interactive, and behavioral aspects. This is very important for the control of semantic integrity and to maintain a holistic representation where external and internal views of service conceptualizations are visualized together. Such visualization is also important for separation of concerns, which provides foundation for creation of modeling patterns. Modeling patterns are important for several reasons. First, they can be used for demonstration of the interplay of fundamental constructs that are used for system analysis and design. Secondly, modeling patterns are important for the evaluation of the expressive power of semantic modeling languages. It is demonstrated by case studies that sequential, underlying, enclosing, overriding, and overlaying interaction loops between actors provide the foundation for the composition of complex scenarios, which span across organizational and technical system boundaries.
Simple System Dynamics and Control System Project Models
Authors: White A. S.
Published: June 2014

This chapter examines the established Systems Dynamics (SD) methods applied to software projects in order to simplify them. These methods are highly non-linear and contain large numbers of variables and built-in decisions. A SIMULINK version of an SD model is used here and conclusions are made with respect to the initial main controlling factors, compared to a NASA project. Control System methods are used to evaluate the critical features of the SD models. The eigenvalues of the linearised system indicate that the important factors are the hiring delay time, the assimilation time, and the employment time. This illustrates how the initial state of the system is at best neutrally stable with control only being achieved with complex non-linear decisions. The purpose is to compare the simplest SD and control models available required for “good” simulation of project behaviour with the Abdel-Hamid software project model. These models give clues to the decision structures that are necessary for good agreement with reality. The final simplified model, with five states, is a good match for the prime states of the Abdel-Hamid model, the NASA data, and compares favourably to the Ruiz model. The linear control system model has a much simpler structure, with the same limitations. Both the simple SD and control models are more suited to preliminary estimates of project performance.
The Role of Standards in the Development of New Informational Infrastructure
Authors: Fomin Vladislav V. , Matinmikko Marja
Published: June 2014

In this chapter, the authors inch towards better understanding of the notion of informational infrastructure and the role of standards in the development of infrastructures in the new information age. Specifically, the authors consider the standardization process as pertaining to informational infrastructure development. They focus on two particular aspects of standardization: temporal dynamics and the social organization. Using Bauman's concept of liquid modernity, the authors argue that standards often become hybrids of solid and liquid modernities linking together different scales of time, space, and social organization. To better illustrate theoretical concepts, they draw on practical examples from the development of informational standards, infrastructures, and services, particularly from the domain of Cognitive Radio Systems (CRS), a new generation of “paradigm changing” communication technologies and services. The aim of this chapter is to offer the scholars of standards and innovation a fresh, non-mainstream perspective on the social and temporal dynamics of standardization and infrastructure development processes, to bring forth new understandings of the complexity of relationships between business, technology, and regulatory domains in the formation of informational infrastructure.
Understanding Human Learning Using a Multi-agent Simulation of the Unified Learning Model
Authors: Chiriacescu Vlad , Soh Leen-Kiat , Shell Duane F.
Published: June 2014

Within cognitive science and cognitive informatics, computational modeling based on cognitive architectures has been an important approach to addressing questions of human cognition and learning. This paper reports on a multi-agent computational model based on the principles of the Unified Learning Model (ULM). Derived from a synthesis of neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, and education, the ULM merges a statistical learning mechanism with a general learning architecture. Description of the single agent model and the multi-agent environment which translate the principles of the ULM into an integrated computational model is provided. Validation results from simulations with respect to human learning are presented. Simulation suitability for cognitive learning investigations is discussed. Multi-agent system performance results are presented. Findings support the ULM theory by documenting a viable computational simulation of the core ULM components of long-term memory, motivation, and working memory and the processes taking place among them. Implications for research into human learning, cognitive informatics, intelligent agent, and cognitive computing are presented.
Oriented Planetary Exploration Robotic Vision Binocular Camera Calibration
Authors: Gui Chen , Peng Jun , Li Zuojin
Published: June 2014

One of the goals of planetary exploration is to cache rock samples for subsequent return to Earth in the future Mars Sample Return (MSR) mission. This paper presents a method of binocular camera calibration. Robotic vision has become a very popular field in recent years due to the numerous promising applications it may enhance. However, errors within the cameras and in their perception of their environment can cause applications in robotics to fail. To help correct these intrinsic and extrinsic imperfections, stereo camera calibrations are performed. There are currently many accurate methods of camera calibration available; however, most or all of them are barely theoretical and difficultly practical. Because the authors' robot need to accurately approach and placement scientific objects, in this paper the authors present an image rectification method that is an extension to two-step method. There is an additional step for correcting the distorted image coordinates. The image rectification is performed and accurately compensates for radial and tangential distortions. Finally, through Matlab tool developed the results of experiment are accurate and available.
Site Response Evaluation of Agartala City Using Geophysical and Geotechnical Data
Authors: Sil Arjun , Sitharam T. G.
Published: June 2014

In this paper, the study addressed how the local geology and soil condition influences on incoming ground motion. Subsurface Geotechnical (SPT) and geophysical (MASW) data in 27 locations at Agartala city have been obtained and used to estimate the surface level response. The vulnerable seismic source (Sylhet fault) has been identified based on deterministic seismic hazard analysis (DSHA). The stochastic point source seismological model has been used to generate synthetic ground motion at 27 locations where MASW tests were conducted. The site response analyses have been performed using SHAKE2000.The results are presented in the form of contour maps in terms of PGA, amplification factor (AF) and spectral accelerations of periods (0.20sec, 1.0sec). The highest amplifications (2 to 3) were observed in the intermediate periods between 0.20 to 1.0sec ranges. However, the mean response spectrum has also been developed for both the rock and ground surface that has mean PGA 0.285g at rock and 0.35g at the surface. Further, the IS code and NEHRP provisions were compared with the mean surface level response spectrum. The IS code provision overestimates the mean response spectrum for all the periods except the periods from 0.26-0.42 sec. Based on the present study, the average shear wave velocity (Vs30=236±52 m/s) of Agartala actually falls a site class-D category (180 m/s <Vs30<360 m/s) as per NEHRP provisions and the design response spectrum has been developed. The developed site specific design response spectrum and other results would be very useful for city planners/designers and the Govt. for earthquake resistant design, city planning, also to identify vulnerable locations, structures suitability identification and also better disaster mitigation planning of the city area.
Modeling Agent Interactions using Common Ground Knowledge from a Joint Activity Theory Perspective
Authors: Lala Divesh , Nishida Toyoaki
Published: June 2014

Believability is necessary for agents to establish intimate, real-time collaborations with humans in an interactive game environment. In this paper, the authors model sophisticated interaction patterns to improve believability by adapting Herbert Clark's joint activity theory. The authors use virtual basketball as an environment, where many communicative scenarios occur and common ground knowledge of collaborative actions such as passing is necessary. The authors have completed preliminary implementation of the agents through the use of a unique computational model based on common ground, and evaluations of basketball simulations have been made with respect to believability scenarios.
A Bounded Model Checking Approach for the Verification of Web Services Composition
Authors: Zahoor Ehtesham , Munir Kashif , Perrin Olivier , Godart Claude
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we propose a bounded model-checking based approach for the verification of declarative Web services composition processes using satisfiability solving (SAT). The need for the bounded model-checking approach stems from the nature of declarative processes as they are defined by only specifying the constraints that mark the boundary of the solution to the composition process. The proposed approach relies on using Event Calculus (EC) as the modeling formalism with a sound and complete EC to SAT encoding process. The use of EC as the modeling also formalism allows for a highly expressive approach for both the specification of composition model and for the specification of verification properties. Furthermore, as the conflict clauses returned by the SAT solver can be significantly large for complex processes and verification requirements, we propose a filtering criterion and defined patterns for identifying the clauses of interest for process verification.
The Impact of Software Testing Governance Choices
Authors: Zhang Xihui , Onita Colin G. , Dhaliwal Jasbir S.
Published: June 2014

Software testing is becoming a critical component of software development, especially because of the proliferation of complex, interconnected, and real-time business applications. As a result, information technology (IT) managers are struggling with pragmatic governance mechanisms for integrating testing with development. Governance issues pertaining to how software testing is organized at strategic, tactical, and operational levels, however, have not received adequate attention in the literature. This study explores the impact of three specific governance mechanisms, including the existence of a distinct corporate testing unit, developers and testers reporting to different executives, and the existence of one-to-one matching between developers and testers, on the organizational integration of testing with development. A national survey of 196 software development and testing professionals was undertaken to investigate the impact of these governance variables on a set of dependent variables comprising organizational, group, and individual outcomes. The results indicate that these governance mechanisms have significant impacts and need to be considered for successful integration of development and testing.
Community Led Practices and Cultural Planning: Methodological Approaches and Practices for Sustainable Urban Development
Authors: Boccella Nicola , Cassalia Giuseppina , Salerno Irene
Published: June 2014

The purpose of this paper is to define a common framework of the Cultural Planning application, in order to provide a range of theoretical and practical tools to combine the conservation of cultural heritage and local development in urban and rural areas, where the management of cultural heritage can have a significant role improving the active participation of the community in the public decision making process. The idea of participation is, at different levels and in different contexts, strongly present in Europe; modern urban design and planning projects are increasingly including local communities in urban development planning activities. In conclusion, the paper argues the possibility of applying the Cultural Planning tool in the field of the Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria strategic planning.
A Program for the Development of the Metropolitan City of Reggio Calabria - Preliminary Issues
Authors: Viglianisi Angela
Published: June 2014

The Program of the development of the metropolitan city of Reggio Calabria, can not be guided from simple considerations of quantitative type, but it must take into account the existing system of material and immaterial relations, that are the result of a series of sectorial issues organization, of the social and economic dynamics, until the cultural identities. Above all, the transport system has always an important role for development and control of a territorial System / Organization [1]. The integrated approach transport-territory, still now not at all took for granted, must become an opportunity to pursue for the competitiveness development of metropolitan city of Reggio Calabria. One of the asserted factors of competitiveness of a metropolitan area must be that of local transports. For these reasons, the present contribution puts as goal the deepening of urban metropolitan links of Reggio Calabria with the various systems of relationship between the municipalities, it has come to generate an idea of Territorial Organization of the future metropolitan city of Reggio Calabria. Also, the methodological course is based on analysis of supply of transport on the critical till to come to the definition of the first hypothesis of vision.
Metropolitan Vision, Stakeholder Action and Community Involvement in Regeneration of Seaside Cities: Innovative Strategies from New York City for the Gulf of Naples
Authors: Clemente Massimo
Published: June 2014

This paper suggests to reflect on the waterfront in a nontraditional way, referring to theoretical and methodological assumptions, developed in recent years about “Cities from the Sea” by our research group in the National Research Council of Italy. So the first step is to move from cognitive analysis to proposals and projects. We can refer to the positive experience of New York that is a best practice in approach, strategies and results. The key of this success is a synthesis of the metropolitan vision favored by the public government, the activation of stakeholders to get results of common interest, the involvement of local communities. People was informed and motivated to put a position, they were encouraged to participate and to give a significant contribute to the achievement of results.
New Integration Prospects for the Metropolitan Area of the Strait: The Role of the Cities of Messina and Reggio Calabria in the Enhancement of Local Resources
Authors: Barresi Alessandra , Pultrone Gabriella
Published: June 2014

This paper illustrates a hypothesis of research on the role of the two metropolitan cities of Messina and Reggio Calabria in the development of the Integrated Strait Area and on the one they may play in the broader Euro-Mediterranean context, in the light of the 2014-2020 EU programming period. In particular, the research refers to the enhancement and activation of local resources and is inspired by the study La Nuova Occasione. Città e valorizzazione delle risorse locali, coordinated by Paola Casavola and Carlo Trigilia on behalf of Fondazione Res, whose method it shares and applies to the Strait Area, though with certain diversities due to the specific case concerned. The basic assumption is to believe that, today, the development and growth of territories depend on the functioning of cities, since they are the place where present and future residential areas, the idea of a government of public interest, intellectual activity and business management concentrate. Therefore, such cities should seize the chance to turn into catalysts of the economy, places of connectivity, creativity and innovation. This idea is even more rooted in the conurbation of the Strait of Messina, whose only possibility of future development, within a European geographical space characterized by the prevalence of strong and consolidated urban regions, may only derive from the capability of the two cities to become aware of their role in enhancing their particular local conditions and the varied latent potentials related to their specific local identity [1].
Social Peace and Political Pluralism
Authors: Brugiatelli Vereno
Published: June 2014

In the modern age cultural and political pluralism received the serious consideration of the Enlightenment philosophers. In the contemporary age, it is the centre of attention of several thinkers that tackle the often dramatic problems related with the misrecognition of rights and freedoms in cultural minority groups. Liberalism in its multiple formulations puts the universal principles that ignore differences at the base of its reflections. Philosophers such as Charles Taylor and Michael Walzer often insisted on the political necessity to face the problem of differences, denouncing the historical and cultural limits of the different forms of liberal universalism. By examining the contraposition between universalism and communitarism, in this paper I intend to give a theoretical solution to such a contrast. In order to outline a perspective able to overcome conflicts in a pacified society, I consider the resources of the recognition of the rights to capabilities, public debate and practical wisdom.
The Public/Private Partnership for Urban Regeneration in the USA
Authors: Meduri Tiziana
Published: June 2014

The paper examines the cooperation consists of the public / private partnership in the American environment, starting from the definition of the same, as experience shows partneship to represent the local government an alternative way to pursue growth and improvement in respect of sustainable development. In this context also shows the need for local government to work with business and the community to promote the territorys competitiveness, and wellness of local residents. The case of San Diego, California, shows how virtuous interaction and collaborative subjects (private, public, non-profit) has led to the economic and social development of different neighborhoods.
Land Value Recapture in the US: The Case of San Francisco
Authors: Calavita Nico
Published: June 2014

During the period immediately after World War II, planning in North America and Europe followed highly centralized, top-down, command-and-control approaches that were based on the rational-comprehensive model of planning, which implies an all-knowing, all-powerful government. Part and parcel of this approach was the government’s control of development land and its value. Beginning in the 1970s, as the precepts of an all-knowing, interventionist state clashed with the reality of uncontrollable global forces driven by multinationals and international finance, it became clear that planning had become a market-driven process, a “servant of the market,” and that inflexible, detailed plans would not work in most real-life situations. Consequently, such plans were either ignored or overridden
Farmers’ Participation in Territorial Planning: A Methodological Approach for the Case Study of Huerta de Valencia
Authors: Corsi Stefano , Mazzocchi Chiara , Mottadelli Giovanni , Sali Guido
Published: June 2014

Participation in planning has become progressively important in territory management. As regards Territorial Planning, farmers are among the main stakeholders. In fact multifunctionality of agriculture admits a new role to primary sector. In particular the management of open areas is particularly strategic in peri-urban areas, where competition for resources is highest than in other areas, especially for the land. In this context, the involvement of farmers as privileged stakeholders to land management is even more important. This paper proposes a methodological approach for the evaluation of peri-urban land use plans by farmers. In particular, it has been considered the "Territorial Action Plan of Valencias Huerta (TAPVH).
Territorial Milieu as Driver for Sustainability through Urban Regeneration Initiatives: The Case of San Diego, CA
Authors: Bevilacqua Carmelina , Maione Carla , Pizzimenti Pasquale , Calabrò Jusy , Zingali Luciano
Published: June 2014

Urban regeneration acquired a powerful role in the shaping of the future role of the cities in the Globalization era. It could be considered a public action in a market governed by different powers introducing a more strategic approach in the contemporary urban planning theory and practice. The main features of urban regeneration regard: area-based approach, strong awareness of what are local needs/urban problems, strategic approach and effects/impacts of initiatives. Since integration can be considered one of the main objective to get through urban regeneration, and the complexity as well as the peculiarity of urban dynamics are very much related to the context they belong to, we might see the community involvement as crucial toward sustainable urban regeneration initiatives. The shift of urban regeneration processes toward an increase of the community importance generates different urban management tools based on the typology of partnership set up. The intent of generating wider effects in terms of economic development at macro-level (regional thereby) trough urban regeneration initiatives has been eluded by the strong local interests even if not homogenous among each others. In order to reach a feasible consensus among all actors involved, the common objective became the job creation to which converge all different urban problems and solutions. Consequently, the sustainability of urban regeneration initiatives is still at the centre of politicians and academic debate. Economic sustainability, environmental sustainability and social sustainability provide criteria for such indicators to measure the urban regeneration performance. The paper reports some interesting findings of the second year of the CLUDs research project, funded by IRSES Marie Curie Actions, illustrating how territorial milieu can reinforce local urban regeneration initiatives by combining the latest urban rural link research with the detailed analysis of 9 urban areas located in San Diego, CA (USA), in which urban regeneration initiatives have been implemented. The CLUDs project has introduced the concept of milieu to offer a different source of sustainability within urban regeneration initiatives that is the connections with the surrounding rural areas to reinforce local economy.
BERGAMOT - A Green and Multifunctional Asset Exclusive from the Province of Reggio Calabria
Authors: Nesci Francesco Saverio , Sapone Natalia
Published: June 2014

Bergamot is a typical citrus fruit that comes almost exclusively from the province of Reggio Calabria. It is a symbol of biodiversity and Calabria has a corner on this exclusive asset as more than 90% of bergamot world production comes from this region . It is to be considered a green asset as it fully complies with Green economy standards and, as every part of the fruit can be used in different sectors, it is a multifunctional product. Essence is requested by perfumer factories, it is widely employed in the cosmetic sector and in pharmacopoeia. The fresh fruit is gaining growing importance for its therapeutic/health fanatic capacity; the juice is used in pharmacopoeia and in the production of derived products as citric acid, while the peel is used to extract pectin; “pastazzo”, which is mainly used as animal feed, is now used in the preparation of a special lime that, according to the oral building tradition handed down in the ionic area, is to be considered important for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, thus in compliance with green economy standards. Associations have always been in charge of the protection of this product; in the past, they were well represented by the Consorzio del Bergamotto whereas the baton has been recently passed on to UnionBerg O.P.; founded in 2004, it aims at guaranteeing a continuing quality production and fixed prices as required by customers, by means of a “voluntary stockpile”. From an economic point of view, the product profitability is interestingly mirrored in the land value, which is remarkably higher than table values. Sentence 181/2011 of the Constitutional Court declared it unlawful and provides that only the market value is to be considered. Bergamot is a resource of the coming metropolitan area and it is therefore worth the attention of scientific research as it is likely to offer further and determinant contributions in less explored sectors, especially those pertaining to health and wealth.
Role of Cultural Mapping within Local Development Processes: A Tool for the Integrated Enhancement of Rural Heritage
Authors: Assumma Vanessa , Ventura Claudia
Published: June 2014

Cultural mapping consists in an innovative tool of knowledge, utilized in the local development processes to enchant territorial resources and to increase local growth in terms of environmental, social and economic sustainability. This research investigates links in strategic planning between heritage, communities and local identity, where knowledge analysis represents the starting-point to define a series of objectives, expressed by local community and by the whole society. Cultural mapping is here applied in the Grecanic Area, a southern Italy region rich of material and immaterial resources in terms of history, nature, culture and it represents a possible instrument for local development, contributing to arise awareness of the local cultural heritage, discarded too many times just for an ephemeral seaside tourism. The research methodology is companied by a survey about the perceptions of the cultural values, material and immaterial, feeling by the community, tourists and visitors. Data are collected and elaborated as graphics and histograms to get an exhausting vision of the country, especially the historical traditions to the contemporary ones. The results are transferred in a Cultural plannings action within the borders of the Metropolitan city of Reggio Calabria.
Reinterpretation of Confucianism and Cultural Renaissance of Chinese Architecture
Authors: Lin Xue Jun , Li Gui Wen , Yin Ping
Published: June 2014

Problem-The constant culture and its tradition of Chinese architecture has already come to the edge of a kind of exhaustive subversion, based on which the ecological recovery of Chinese architecture should be paid enough attention to as a kind of national strategic perspective. Crux-It is because of putting undue emphases on politics, making rigidly uniforms as national plans habitually and taking economic construction as the center for a too long period of time that alienated the forms, connotation and quality of Chinese buildings. Principle-In order to make for the value realization and the happiness of the livelihood, the maximum of respects for civil rights, the revival of traditional culture for national architecture, the Doctrine of the Mean should be advocated and restored. Method-By meanings of modifying the "property law", the land reform can be developed and the holonomic ownership rightof real estate can be realized; By meanings of decentralizing the jurisdiction of civilian construction， the self-organizing construction activity in the folk can be encouraged.Aims-Attempt to highlight the regional characteristics, interpret our national culture，inherit traditional techniques in architecture and establish a kind of collective harmony, which can bring the exact collective unconscious nostalgia and memories shared among the civilians.
Biomass Production in Agroforestry Systems: V.E.Ri.For Project
Authors: Proto Andrea R. , Zimbalatti Giuseppe , Abenavoli Lorenzo , Bernardi Bruno , Benalia Soraya
Published: June 2014

The biomass for energy purposes, coming from agroforestry systems and timber industry, can provide various environmental and socio-economic benefits.Among all renewable energy sources, agroforestry biomass represents both an important alternative source to fossil fuels and an opportunity for the socio-economic development of various marginal areas in Italy. In particular, agroforestry is a collective name of land use systems in which woody perennials are grown in association with herbaceous plants and/or livestock in a spatial arrangements, a rotation, or both in which there are both ecological and economic interactions between the tree and the non-tree components of the system. Estimating availability of biomass resources is important to assess bioenergy production potential and so bioenergy contribution to annual energy demand. In the supply of biomass to energy use, the planning of operations is the basis for sustainable development of agroforest system.Most existing forest practice rules and recommendations did not anticipate this increased extraction of woody biomass and offer no specific guidance on how much removal is healthy for ecosystems. Intensification of biomass utilization, particularly for energy and fuel needs, presents a range of potential environmental risks. Therefore, the research focuses on development of guidelines for increasing a sustainable biomass supply chain at local scale, in order to facilitate energy planning that considers the local system carrying capacity and the potential of substitution of fossil fuels.
Food Hubs: Reconnecting Alternative Food Networks and Conventional Supply Chain
Authors: Felicetti Michela
Published: June 2014

This paper considers whether it is possible to apply the concept of food hubs to the area of Piana di Sibari in Calabria, which has been established by regional law as a Quality Agrifood District (Distretto Agroalimentare di Qualità or DAQ). This paper considers whether it is possible to apply the concept of food hubs to the area of Piana di Sibari in Calabria, which has been established by regional law as a Quality Agrifood District (Distretto Agroalimentare di Qualità or DAQ). After identifying some features of the food hub concept in the biggest cooperative of the context, the paper will highlight how this situation represents an opportunity for small farmers to access conventional food supply chains from which they would otherwise be excluded. In this view, food hubs are a mixture of alternative and conventional food networks and constitute a way to solve the problem of economic viability of local food initiatives like community supported agriculture.
Landscape Quality Valuation for its Preservation and Treasuring
Authors: Massimo Domenico Enrico , Musolino Mariangela , Barbalace Antonino , Fragomeni Cinzia
Published: June 2014

Pollution, environmental disruption, oversized urban development and infrastructure new construction jeopardize landscape integrity and peoples quality of life. Research deals with the landscape protection and enhancement providing governments and decision makers with a comprehensive Decision Support System to assess the quality of natural and cultural heritage and address planning measures and policy actions for landscape treasuring. Research set-up a sound methodology relying upon GIS tools, to spatially detect and define landscape units along with their endowment such as natural, ecological, historic, cultural, and urban resources then valuated with a GIS integrated multi criteria analysis tool set-up by the research team. Research developed a Case Study in the European Mediterranean Basin, validating the whole system and the performance and support of the GIS tools. Results achieved open the possibility to generalize the prototype application at regional, country and federation levels and therefore support the planning implementation for landscape enhancement.
Innovation in Territorial Governance: The Case of Agricultural Districts in Lombardy Region
Authors: Corsi Stefano , Mazzocchi Chiara , Monaco Federica , Sali Guido
Published: June 2014

In recent years globalization and the economic crisis have been pressing the agricultural sector, driving farmers to adopt new tools in order to deal with the challenges put in place by a globalized market and by the actions of agricultural policies. In this sense, the Italian legislation allows them joining in organized superstructures which, referring to the concept of industrial district, involve different members of a specific production sector in a territorial context,. in a network of relationships and a higher vertical and horizontal integration. Under these drivers, agricultural rural districts, agro-food quality districts and supply chain districts are been constituted. They represent concrete examples of a new form of territorial governance that may play a role in the development and enhancement of the local area and its agro-food production. Three districts belonging to different categories operating and recognized by Lombardy region have been taken such as case studies and a set of qualitative criteria and indicators is proposed, in order to provide a framework of their characteristics and a preliminary comparison among them.
The Using Fungi Treatment as Green and Environmentally Process for Surface Modification of Natural Fibres
Authors: Khoshnava Seyed Meysam , Rostami Raheleh , Ismail Mohammad , Valipour Alireza
Published: June 2014

Although Natural Fibres have various potential and advantages such as lower in weight, embodied energy and toxicity but their drawbacks are provided relentless competition between natural and synthetics fibres. Intrinsically, Natural Fibres are hydrophilic that is leaded to poor resistance to moisture and incompatible to hydrophobic polymer matrix. This incompatibility of natural fibres results in poor fibre/matrix interface which in turn leads to reduce mechanical properties of the composites. This study try to litreature some methods of chemical treatment or surface modification of Natural Fibres for improving this drawback of natural fibres. The objective of this research is fungi treatment as Green Surface Treatment that is indicate to environmental friendlier process. The use of fungi can provide low cost, highly efficient and environmentally friendly alternatives to natural fibre surface treatment.
Partial Discharge Characteristic of Low Density Polyethylene and Silica Nanocomposite
Authors: Aulia  , Abdul-Malek Zulkurnain , Arief Yanuar Z. , Piah Mohamed A.M. , Jaafar Mariatti
Published: June 2014

Low density polyethylene (LDPE) and nanosilica (SiO2) composites may offer many improved mechanical as well as electrical performance compared to a virgin LDPE. This study focuses on analyzing the partial discharge characteristic of LDPE nanocomposites. Different weight percentages (from 0 to 8wt%) of silica (SiO2) nano particles were introduced as fillers into the LDPE base. The laboratory prepared nanocomposite samples were subjected to electrical stress or aging using the familiar CIGRE Method II setup. Partial discharge pulses were counted for both polarities for upto 60 minutes stress duration. The results show that the PD number of the samples is positively affected by the presence of nanosilica filler when the filler content is above 4wt%. The PD number of a virgin LDPE reduces to half when 8wt% of nanosilica filler is added irrespective of the PD polarities.
Effect of PEgMAH on Tensile Properties and Swelling Behaviour of Recycled High Density Polyethylene/Ethylene Vinyl Acetate/Waste Tyre Dust (r-HDPE/EVA/WTD) Composites
Authors: Fatimah A.R.H. , Abdul Aziz Ikmal Hakem , Supri A.Ghani
Published: June 2014

The effect of polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride as a compatibilizer on the tensile properties, and swelling behavior of recycled high density polyethylene/ethylene vinyl acetate/ waste tyre dust (r-HDPE/EVA/WTD) composites was studied. r-HDPE/EVA/WTD composites with different tyre dust loading and the addition of polyethylene grafted maleic anhydride (PEgMAH) were prepared with Brabender Plasticorder at temperature of 160°C and rotor speed of 50 rpm. The result indicated that r-HDPE/EVA/WTD/PEgMAH composites exhibit higher tensile strength, modulus of elasticity, and mass swell resistance than r-HDPE/EVA/WTD composites.
Investigation of the Electrical Resistivity of 20μm-Gap Gold-DNA-Gold Structure: Exploiting the Current-Voltage Characteristics under a Variable External Magnetic Field
Authors: Khatir Nadia Mahmoudi , Abdul-Malek Zulkurnain , Banihashemian Seyedeh Maryam
Published: June 2014

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), as the most important molecule in nature, holds promise as a key element of the molecular electronics as its utilization in the synthesis of electronic devices such as micro and nanosensors has increased remarkably during the recent years. Our work is devoted to an experimental study of the electrical resistivity of a gold-DNA-gold (GDG) structure in the presence of a variable external magnetic field. The DNA strands, extracted by the PCR method, were used to fabricate the GDG structures. The resistivity of the structure was found to rise sharply with the magnitude of the exerted magnetic field due to onset and progression of the cyclotron effects in charge carriers. Such a distinct current-voltage signature can possibly be employed for realization of an accurate magnetic sensor.
The Influence of Seawater Velocity to the Corrosion Rate and Paint Degradation at Mild Steel Plate Immersed in Sea Water
Authors: Ferry Manuhutu , Wan Nik W.B. , Mohd Noor Che Wan
Published: June 2014

Mild steel is one of the materials that used to build ships and other marine construction which go through current, streams, waves with different speed. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of seawater flow speed on the corrosion rate of mild steel and the paint thickness degradation. The simulation is done at laboratory scale using mild steel coupons exposure under different flow velocity of seawater that are 2 m/s, 4 m/s, 6 m/s and as control is used stationary flow, 0 m/s. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is used to determine the corrosion rate occurred on the coupons plate surface and its paint degradation as function of immersion time. Scanning electron microscopy also is used to observe the plate surface rust and the damage of paint which occurred during the experiment. Experiment is run for thirty days for every water flow speed and the data is taken every ten days. The result of this study revealed that the corrosion rate and paint degradation are increased by the increasing of water flow velocity which is proposed to validate seawater flow rate as parameter that increased the paint damage and corrosion rate of mild steel plate.
ANFIS Direct Inverse Control of Substrate in an Activated Sludge Wastewater Treatment System
Authors: Sani Muhammad Gaya , Abdul Wahab Norhaliza , Sam Yahya M. , Samsudin Sharatul Izah , Jamaludin Irma Wani
Published: June 2014

Nonlinearity of the substrate dynamics is the main inconveniences in its control. Low substrate concentration significantly affects the growth of the microorganisms responsible for treating the wastewater and too high substrate concentration level may lead to drop in the growth rate. Therefore, the control of substrate concentration is highly essential for effective and optimal operation of wastewater treatment plants. However, the control using conventional techniques is quite cumbersome and often impossible. This paper presents adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) direct inverse control of substrate in an activated sludge system. The performances of the proposed controller are illustrated by tracking the substrate set-points. The simulation results demonstrate that the proposed controller can effectively and accurately control the substrate concentration level. The proposed inverse controller may serve as a valuable control strategy for the wastewater treatment plant.
Evaluation of the Prospects of Using Solar Thermal Air-Conditioning Systems in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mazharul Islam , Muhammad Ruhul Amin , Ani Farid Nasir
Published: June 2014

Saudi Arabia is endowed with abundant solar energy which is readily available from the sun. Solar energy is one of main renewable energy sources and it can be harnessed for an array of applications including heating, cooling and generation of electricity. Due to its hot climate and relatively high purchasing power capability of the general population, Saudi Arabia has a huge demand for air-conditioning (cooling) appliances. Currently these appliances are mainly powered by electricity generated by conventional sources using fossil fuels. Solar air-conditioning system is an emerging technology which relies on the sun for meeting the energy demand. One attractive feature of this system is that the high demand for space cooling by air-conditioning equipment coincides with the abundant availability of solar irradiation during the long summer months. Currently there are several types of solar air-conditioning systems, including the absorption, adsorption and desiccant systems. Each system has its merits and demerits. In this paper, the prospects of using absorption solar thermal air-conditioning systems for space cooling in Saudi Arabia are given.
The Effect of Lubricant Viscosity in Cold Work Forward Extrusion
Authors: Syahrullail Samion , Kamitani Shunpei , Nakanishi Kenji
Published: June 2014

In cold work extrusion, lubricants play an important role in lubricating the tool and workpiece surfaces, preventing metal-to-metal contact and reducing sliding friction, so that the workpiece can be extruded smoothly without severe wear due to lubricant starvation. In this paper, the influence of lubricant viscosity in cold work forward extrusion was investigated. The lubricants were additive-free, paraffinic mineral oil, which may have low, medium or high viscosity. The workpiece material was pure aluminum A1100, extruded with extrusion ratio of 3. The analysis focused on extrusion force, workpiece surface roughness after the extrusion process and the metal flow in the deformation zone of the workpiece. Using the visioplasticity method, the sliding velocity was calculated from the metal flow. Results showed that, the higher the lubricant viscosity, the lower the extrusion force generated. However, a high-viscosity lubricant produces coarser workpiece surface conditions after the extrusion process.
A Study of Software Approach for Predicting Weld Bead Geometry in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) Process
Authors: Noor C.W. Mohd , Ferry Manuhutu , Nik W.B. Wan
Published: June 2014

The prediction of the optimal weld bead width is an important aspect in shielded metal arc welding (SMAW) process as it is related to the strength of the weld. This paper focuses on investigation of the development of the simple and accurate model for prediction of weld bead geometry. The experiment used welding current, arc length, welding speed, welding gap and electrode diameter as input parameters. While output parameters are bead width, depth of penetration and weld reinforcement. A number of 33 mild steel plate specimens had undergone the SMAW welding process. The experimental data was used to develop mathematical models using SPSS software. The actual and predicted values of the weld bead geometry are compared. The proposed models shows positive correlation to the real process.
Individual Stiffness of 3D Space Frame Thin Walled Structural Joint Considering Local Buckling Effect
Authors: Yob Mohd Shukri , Mansor Shuhaimi , Sulaiman Razali
Published: June 2014

Thin walled beams are widely used to build vehicle structure. Thin walled structure offers high stiffness-to-weight ratio to the vehicle for better handling and fuel consumption. Despite these advantages, thin walled structures will expose to the buckling and joint flexibility effects. For a vehicle structure, 3D space frame is used a lot in designing vehicle structure. However, the stiffness of thin joint is difficult to predict accurately by numerical and analytical model due to buckling effect and the complexity of the joint. The essence of this research work is to determine individual stiffness of 3D space frame members using reduction member method. By knowing the individual stiffness of all members, the stiffness of 3D space frame can be predicted easily. This study will help design engineer to optimize vehicle structure with more efficient way rather than trial and error approach. As a case study, structure around bulkhead area which consists of A pillar, sidesill and cross member will be analyzed.
Modeling and Validation of Quarter Vehicle Traction Model
Authors: Fauzi Ahmad , Mazlan Saiful Amri , Zamzuri Hairi
Published: June 2014

This manuscript provides modeling and validation of a quarter car vehicle model to study the wheel dynamics behavior in longitudinal direction. The model is consists of a longitudinal slip model subsystem, a quarter body dynamic and tire subsystems. The quarter vehicle model was then validated using an instrumented experimental vehicle based on the driver input from brake and throttle pedals. Vehicle transient handling dynamic tests known as sudden braking test was performed for the purpose of validation. Several behaviors of the vehicle dynamics were observed during braking maneuvers such as body longitudinal velocity, wheel linear velocity and tire longitudinal slip at a quarter of the vehicle. Comparisons of the experimental results and model responses with sudden braking imposed motions were made. Consequently, the trends between simulation results and experimental data were found almost similar with an acceptable level of error for the application at hand.