bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Modeling of Monolithic Resistors for Silicon ICS with a Robust Optimizer-Driving Scheme
Authors: Leduc Philippe , Magnon Didier , Guitton Fabrice
Published: May 2017

Today, an exhaustive library of models describing the electrical behavior of integrated passive components in the radio-frequency range is essential for the simulation and optimization of complex circuits. In this work, a preliminary study has been done on Tantalum Nitride (TaN) resistors integrated on silicon, and this leads to a single p-type lumped-element circuit. An efficient extraction technique will be presented to provide a computer-driven optimizer with relevant initial model parameter values (the "guess-timate"). The results show the unicity in most cases of the lumped element determination, which leads to a precise simulation of self-resonant frequencies.
Assessment of The Electrical Systems Interconnection in The Arab World
Authors: Abderrazzaq M.H.
Published: May 2017

The international trend of interconnecting electric power systems has two dimensions; economical and technical. Electric power systems in the Arab World are not only eligible, but in need for having a unified power grid. The potentials, status and conditions of the existing and future interconnections in this region are overviewed. The development of the six countries interconnection project, including the completed phase of Jordan-Egypt submarine link, is discussed in details. Finally, the main technical problems, which either faced the first stages of the project or expected to face the interconnected systems in the subsequent stages, are highlighted.
Metrization of Weakly Developable Spaces
Authors: Mohamad Abdul M.
Published: May 2017

In this note, we present metrization of weak developability.
Deletion Designs
Authors: Gachii Michael Kamau , Odhiambo John Wycliff , Wachira Anne
Published: May 2017

In this paper a method of constructing a class of flexible single replicate factorial designs in blocks is given. Simple expressions for calculating loss of information on low order interactions is presented.
On the Computation of the Maximum Uncertainty Volume of Stable Polynomials
Authors: Al-Sunni F.M.
Published: May 2017

In this paper we propose a non-linear optimization based approach for the computation of the stability region for uncertain polynomials.  Both box of polynomials and diamond of polynomials are addressed.  Examples are presented as an illustration.
Performance Evaluation of Database Systems Using Colored Petri Nets
Authors: Mnaouer A.B. , Day K. , Al-Towaiq M. , Masoud F.A.
Published: May 2017

We propose Colored Petri Net (CPN) models for replicated and centralized database systems and conduct a comparative study of their performance. The designed CPN models capture the dynamics of the studied database systems and estimate their expected performance with an appropriate level of abstraction. A number of simulation experiments were performed under various load conditions of varying parameters such as server speed, network speed, and read/write ratio. The simulation results show that under similar operation conditions, replicated systems exhibit higher performance than centralized systems in terms of query response time and system saturation levels. However, centralized systems become more competitive when their network and server speeds are much higher than those of the replicated systems.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of Overcrowded Non-photochromic Organometallic Fulgide
Authors: Al-Shihry Shar Saad
Published: May 2017

Pure E-isomer overcrowded organometallic fulgide 1 was obtained by using successive Stobbe condensations between ketones and succinate diester. Upon irradiation with UV light at (366 nm) it did not cyclise photochemically to the 1,8a-dihydronaphthalene derivative (1,8a-DHN) 8. The structure of 7 was confirmed by X-ray crystallographic analysis.
On Group Codes Over Elementary Abelian Groups
Authors: A. Zain Adnan
Published: May 2017

For group codes over elementary Abelian groups we present definitions of the generator and the parity check matrices, which are matrices over the ring of endomorphism of the group. We also lift the theorem that relates the parity check and the generator matrices of linear codes over finite fields to group codes over elementary Abelian groups. Some new codes that are MDS, self-dual, and cyclic over the Abelian group with four elements are given.
Recursive Estimation of a Discrete-Time Lotka-Volterra Predator-Prey Model
Authors: Aggoun Lakhdar
Published: May 2017

In this paper, using hidden Markov models, we estimate the number of individuals in a two-species (predator-prey) animal population using partial information provided by the so-called capture-recapture technique. Random samples of individuals are captured, tagged in some way and released. After some time other random samples are taken and the marked individuals are observed. Using this information, we estimate (recursively) the sizes of the two populations. Also, using the Expectation Maximization (EM) algorithm, the parameters of the model are updated.
Xanthotoxin and Other Furanocoumarins as Phytoalexins in Pastinaca sativa L. roots
Authors: Al-Barwani Fatma M. , Eltayeb Elsadig A.
Published: May 2017

Our results confirm the presence of the furanocoumarins psoralen, xanthotoxin, isopimpinellin, angelicin and bergapten as normal constituents of Pastinaca sativa roots.  However, the amounts of these compounds were increased in induced roots.  The amount of increase in the induced roots varied depending on the inducing agent and time of incubation. In addition the results show for the first time the presence of pimpinellin and isobergapten as constitutive antifungal compounds in P. sativa roots.
Performance Modification of Asphalt Binders using Thermoplastic Polymers
Authors: Al-Abdul Wahhab H. I. , Abaker I.
Published: May 2017

There is a need to improve the performance of asphalt binders to minimize stress cracking that occurs at low temperatures and plastic deformation at high temperatures. Importation of used asphalt-polymers from abroad, leads to an increase in the total construction cost as compared to the cost if the used polymers were of local origin. The main objective of this research was to modify locally produced asphalt. Ten polymers were identified as potential asphalt modifiers based on their physical properties and chemical composition. After preliminary laboratory evaluation for the melting point of these polymers, five polymers were selected for local asphalt modification. In the initial stage, required mixing time was decided based on the relation between shear loss modulus and mixing time .The optimum polymer content was selected based on Superpave binder performance grade specifications.The suitability of improvement was verified through the evaluation of permanent deformation and fatigue behavior of laboratory prepared asphalt concrete mixes. The results indicated that the rheological properties of the modified binders improved significantly with sufficient polymer content (3%). The aging properties of the modified binders were found to be dependent on the type of polymer.The fatigue life and resistance to permanent deformation were significantly improved due to enhanced binder rheological properties.  Thus, local asphalts can be modified using thermoplastic polymers.
Pavement Stripping in Saudi Arabia: Prediction and Prevention
Authors: Al-Abdul Wahhab H.I. , Asi I.M. , Ali S.A. , Al-Swailmi S. , Al-Nour A.
Published: May 2017

Pavement weathering or stripping is a major distress in highway networks in arid regions. Using the Saudi Arabian road network as a case study area, seventeen road test sections were selected, out of which eight were stripped and nine were non-stripped. Aggregates from quarries used to build these sections were also collected and subjected to detailed physical and chemical tests to evaluate the ability of these tests to distinguish between stripped and non-stripped sections. The modified Lottman test was used to distinguish between compacted mixes. In addition, the Swedish Rolling Bottle test, was also found to be effective in being able to distinguish between different asphalt-aggregates for stripping potential. Eleven anti-stripping liquid additives, lime and cement, in addition to two polymers, were evaluated for their ability to reduce/eliminate stripping potential of stripping-prone aggregates. It was found that EE-2 Polymer, Portland cement, and their combination were effective with all aggregate sources.
Using Mobile Computing and Information Technology in Civil Engineering Construction Projects
Authors: Jadid M.N. , Idress M.M.
Published: May 2017

Mobile computing technology has an enormous potential in civil engineering, mainly in the field of construction management. This paper presents an approach by using mobile computing in a civil engineering construction project, exploring how information can be exchanged at a construction site, and how billing of quantities (BOQ), drawings and specifications are shared for the benefit of the project. One of the major obstacles in using information technology (IT) when applied to civil engineering is due to the dynamic changes in the construction activities and the diversity of construction methods as compared to other industries. This has proved to be a great disadvantage when trying to give construction sites adequate IT support. Computers require infrastructure, which can be transferred easily to the head office, but rarely to the construction site itself in a systematic way. Therefore, the impact of IT on the way the construction industry actually works has not been significantly utilized. This paper consists of two main parts. The first part defines the concept of mobile computing, describes some recent research, and stresses the potential for the construction industry. The second part is focuses on an approach, implementing mobile computing in a real construction site.
Statistical Signal Characterization of Spectral Analysis of Heart Rate Variability for Screening of Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Hossen A. , Al Ghunaimi B. , Hassan M.O.
Published: May 2017

A new screening technique for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is implemented. This technique is based on finding the statistical signal characterization (SSC) parameters of the spectrum of pre-processed R-R-interval (RRI) data. A single classification factor (CR) is selected to classify between patients with obstructive sleep apnea and normal controls. Both nonparametric spectral analysis techniques (with Welch method as an example) and parametric techniques (with Burg method as an example) are used to estimate the power spectral density. The data tested in this work are drawn from MIT database. Both trial and test (challenge) groups of data are used. Each of these two groups contains 20 OSA and 10 normal records. The trial data is used to set the threshold value of the classification factor, which is then used in identifying the challenge data. The total accuracy of the screening is about 93% and 90% using Burg and Welch algorithms respectively.
Kinetics of Hydrodesulfurization of Dibenzothiophene on Sulfided Commercial Co-Mo/γ-Al2O3 Catalyst
Authors: Al-Zeghayer Y.S. , Jibril B.Y.
Published: May 2017

Kinetics of hydrodesulfurization of dibenzothiophene (DBT) has been studied on a commercial CoMo/γ-Al2O3 catalyst at 633 - 683 K and 10 atm. A low DBT concentration typically obtained in hydrodesulfurization operations was used. Pseudo-first-order model was found to fit the experimental data for the consumption of DBT. The activation energy for the conversion of DBT was found to be 51.7 kcal/mol. Biphenyl (BP) and cyclohexylbenzene (CHB) were obtained as dominant products. For the reaction network, both parallel and parallel-sequential routes were explored. The latter was found to give a better description of the BP and CHB distributions. The ratio of BP to CHB depended on the reaction temperature. The values of activation energies of DBT hydrogenolysis to BP (EBP), DBT hydrogenation to CHB (ECHB1) and hydrogenation of BP to CHB (ECHB2) were found to be in a decreasing order of ECHB2 > EBP > ECHB1. The result suggests the presence of different catalytic sites leading to the two products on the catalysts.
High-Temperature Electronics: Status and Future Prospects in the 21st Century
Authors: Touati F. , Mnif F. , Lawati A.
Published: May 2017

This paper reviews the state of current electronics and states the drive toward high-temperature electronics. The problems specific to high-temperature effects on conventional electronics and prospects of alternative technologies like silicon-on-insulator, silicon carbide, and diamond are discussed. Improving petroleum recovery from oil wells with hightemperature coverage of downhole electronics, making combustion processes more efficient utilizing embedded electronics, programs for More Electric Aircraft and Vehicles necessitating distributed control systems, and environmental protection issues stress the need to use and develop high-temperature electronics. This makes high-temperature electronics a key-enabling technology in the 21st century. Actual applications using high-temperature electronics are discussed in some details. Also information and guidelines are included about supporting electronics needed to make a complete high-temperature system. The technology has been making major advancements and is expected to account for 20% of the electronics market by 2010. However, many technical challenges have to be solved.
A Prototype Expert System for the Selection of Road Construction Materials
Authors: Hassim S. , Teh K.T. , Muniandy R. , Omar H. , Hassan A.
Published: May 2017

A prototype for an expert system in road construction material selection system, which is based on the outcomes of Friedman and multiple comparisons statistical methods was developed. The outcomes were acquired through questionnaires from selected pavement experts. The factors affecting pavement materials under each particular site condition were incorporated into the specific rules of the system. The system knowledge-base was extracted from the statistical testing outcomes and then rearranged and compiled prior to the development of the system. Visual Basic 6.0 was adopted as the programming tool for development of the system, while the knowledge-base of the separate system was kept in Microsoft Access 2000. The prototype expert system can be used to emulate part of the professional reasoning capabilities based on the knowledge of a pavement expert or a specialist to solve problems on materials selection. The system can help road designers to improve their professional ability to evaluate all available materials even before carrying out any laboratory tests.
High-Performance BiCMOS Transimpedance Amplifiers for Fiber-Optic Receivers
Authors: Touati F. , Loulou M.
Published: May 2017

High gain, wide bandwidth, low noise, and low-power transimpedance amplifiers based on new BiCMOS common- base topologies have been designed for fiber-optic receivers. In particular a design approach, hereafter called "A more- FET approach", added a new dimension to effectively optimize performance tradeoffs inherent in such circuits. Using conventional silicon 0.8 μm process parameters, simulated performance features of a total-FET transimpedance amplifier operating at 7.2 GHz, which is close to the technology fT of 12 GHz, are presented. The results are superior to those of similar recent designs and comparable to IC designs using GaAs technology. A detailed analysis of the design architecture, including a discussion on the effects of moving toward more FET-based designs is presented.
Seismic Response of Pure-Friction Base Isolated Masonry Building with Restricted Base-Sliding
Authors: Qamaruddin M. , Ahmad S.
Published: May 2017

The earthquake response of pure-friction base isolated masonry building with restricted base sliding is presented in this paper. A clear smoothened surface is created at the plinth level of the building above the damp-proof course, and the superstructure rests at this level to slide freely, except for the frictional resistance and the rigid stopper. As the superstructure is free to slide at the plinth level, there will be a feeling to the occupants that it might slide more than the permissible relative displacement limit provided at the top of the substructure. This may create a fear among the occupants that the building may overturn. In view of this, a mathematical model was developed for masonry building with restricted base sliding system using rigid stopper. Feasible position of the stopper has been determined such that the seismic response of the structure is reduced considerably in comparison with that of corresponding fixed base structure. Investigation was also made to determine the seismic response of the buildings with varying time period, mass ratio, coefficient of friction and damping coefficient subjected to Koyna and five other pseudo earthquakes. The pseudo earthquakes were generated either by increasing or decreasing the ground acceleration and duration of the Koyna accelerogram. It turns out from the present study that the pure-friction isolated restricted base sliding system is effective in reducing the seismic force acting on the masonry building with low value of coefficient of friction.
Study of Date Palm Stem as Raw Material in Preparation of Activated Carbon
Authors: Houache O. , Al-Maamari R. , Al-Rashidi B. , Jibril B.
Published: May 2017

Activated carbon adsorbent was prepared using Omani date palm tree stem as a precursor. Precursor samples were subjected to thermal treatment (at 400, 500 and 600 oC) before or after impregnation with either H3PO4 (85 wt %) or KOH (3 wt %). The activated carbon obtained was characterized by BET (surface area and porosity), Gas Pycnometry (true density) and SEM (texture). Sample subjected to carbonization, without chemical activation, exhibited low surface areas ~ 1.0 m2/g at 400 and 500 oC and 124 m2/g at 600 oC. Further treatment of such samples with either the acid or the base did not show improvement in surface area or other properties. Impregnations of the precursor with acid before carbonization significantly improved the surface area to as high as 1,100 m2/g at a carbonization temperature of 500 oC. Thus, activated carbon with a moderate surface area could be produced from date palm stem using low carbonization temperature.
Extreme Gravity Waves In The Arabian Gulf
Authors: Neelamani S. , Al-Salem K. , Rakha K.
Published: May 2017

The extreme significant wave heights and the corresponding mean wave periods were predicted for return periods of 12, 25, 50, 100 and 200 years for 38 different locations in the territorial and offshore locations of countries surrounding the Arabian Gulf. The input wave data for the study is hindcast waves obtained using a WAM model for a total period of 12 years, (1993 to 2004). The peak over threshold method (with 1.0 m as threshold value), is used for selecting the data for the extreme wave analysis. In general, a Weibull distribution is found to fit the data well compared to the Gumbel distribution for all these locations. From the joint probability of wave height and wave period, a simple polynomial relationship (Tmean = C3 (Hs)C4) is used to obtain the relationship between the significant wave height and mean wave period for all the 38 locations. The value of C3 is found to vary from 3.8 to 4.8 and the value of C4 is found to vary from 0.19 to 0.32. The mean wave period was found to be more sensitive to change in locations within the Gulf and it is less sensitive to change in return periods from 12 years to 200 years. The significant wave heights for 100 year return period varied from 3.0 to 4.5 for water depths of 9 to 16 m, whereas in the offshore sites (depths from 30 to 60 m) it varied from 5.0 to 7.0 m. A large number of coastal projects are in progress in the Arabian Gulf and many new projects are being planned in this region for the future. The results of the present study will be highly useful for optimal design of the ocean structures for these projects.
Integration of FBG Strain Sensors in WDM Networks, Effects on Quality Factor
Authors: Al-Lawati Ali , Bourdoucen Hadj
Published: May 2017

A study of the effect of integrating an FBG sensor in a four wavelength WDM communications system operating at 1550 nm is presented. The simulations considered focus on the mutual effects of both the sensing and the communications systems. The effect of power levels of the interrogating optical source on the performance of the two systems is also investigated under excitation levels of up to 10 dBm. The network layout used in the simulations is based on an actual optical link in Oman having a variety of spans. The results obtained at data rates of 2.5 and 10 Gbps with variable strains up to ±600 μs show a good tolerance in terms of quality of transmission for the two systems. However, the greater the strain values, the more noticeable are the degradations of transmission quality parameters of the communications system.
Sensitivity of Predicted Maximum Bending Moment to IBC Design Response Spectrum Parameters
Authors: Nahhas Tariq M.
Published: May 2017

The parameters used to generate IBC (International Building Code) compliant design response spectra are specified only approximately for a given site in most cases and values may even be erroneous. S o, the question arises about the effect of approximation or error in the values of these parameters on the predicted internal forces in the structural elements of a building calculated on the basis of the provisions of IBC. This paper explores this issue and presents the sensitivities of design response spectra and maximum moments induced in the structure to these IBC parameters. Within the critical range of short time periods, the variation in peak acceleration of design response spectra for various site classes is found non-uniform. Only peak acceleration is affected by varying SS. Thus, for buildings with the fundamental time period of around 0.6 sec and greater, the parameter SS of IBC is immaterial. Also, for a given site class, the design response spectra are almost identical in the peak acceleration region for all values of S1. The maximum moment is insensitive to SS except for the site class E. This implies that any error in the evaluation of this parameter will not affect the design of the structure.
Cadmium Adsorption on HDTMA Modified Montmorillionite
Authors: Ahmed Mohd. Elmuntasir I.
Published: May 2017

In this paper the possibility of cadmium removal from aqueous solutions by adsorption onto modified montmorillonite clay is investigated. Batch adsorption experiments performed revealed an enhanced removal of cadmium using HDTMA modified montmorillonite to 100% of its exchange capacity. Modified montmorillonite adsorption capacity increases at higher pHs suggesting adsorption occurs as a result of surface precipitation and HDTMA complex formation due to the fact that the original negatively charged montmorillonite is now covered by a cationic layer of HDTMA. Adsorption isotherms generated followed a Langmuir isotherm equation possibly indicating a monolayer coverage. Adsorption capacities of up to 49 mg/g and removals greater than 90% were achieved. Anionic selectivity of the HDTMA modified monmorillonite is particularly advantageous in water treatment applications where high concentrations of less adsorbable species are present, and the lack of organoclay affinity for these species may allow the available capacity to be utilized selectively by the targeted species.
A Pattern Recognition Technique Based on Wavelet Decomposition for Identification of Patients With Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Hossen Abdulnasir , Al-Ghunaimi Bader
Published: May 2017

A pattern recognition technique based on approximate estimation of power spectral densities (PSD) of sub-bands resulted from wavelet decomposition of R-R interval (RRI) data for identification of patients with Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is investigated. Both trial and test data used in this work are drawn from MIT databases. Two standard patterns of the base-2 logarithmic values of the reciprocal of the probability measure of the approximated PSD of CHF patients and normal subjects are derived by averaging all corresponding values of all sub-bands of 12 CHF data and 12 normal subjects in the trial set. The computed pattern of each data under test is then compared band-by-band with both standard patterns of CHF and normal subjects to find the closest pattern. The new technique resulted in an identification accuracy of about 90% by applying it on the test data.
Preliminary Step Towards Wire-Driven Parallel Suspension Systems for Static and Dynamic Derivatives of the Aircraft in Low-Speed Wind Tunnels
Authors: Zheng Yaqing , Lin Qi , Liu Xiongwei , Mitrouchev Peter
Published: May 2017

The wind tunnel test is one important way to obtain the aerodynamic derivatives of aircrafts. These derivatives are necessary when the guidance and control systems of the aircraft are designed and when the dynamic quality of the aircraft is analyzed as well. The results of experiments of the static derivatives and dynamic derivatives of the aircraft in low-speed wind tunnels have revealed that there are some unavoidable drawbacks such as the interference of the streamline flow brought about by the strut in the traditional strut suspension system. A cable-mounted system is very suitable for experiments of the static derivatives of an aircraft, but it cannot be used in the experiments of dynamic derivatives. In order to use the same wire-driven parallel suspension system to realize the static and dynamic derivates experiments in low-speed wind tunnels, a survey of the research work addressed within the Wire-Driven Parallel Suspension Systems (WDPSS-8) project is presented in this paper. The results show that WDPSS-8 can be successfully used in experiments of static derivatives, and that it has potentiality to be used in experiments of dynamic derivatives. In the issues in the theoretical aspect the issues have been handled. However, much work should be done in the experimental aspects. The research outcomes of WDPSS-8 will help the Chinese set up Chinese brands in the field of wind tunnel tests of aircrafts.
MIMO Channel Gain Mechanisms Relative to SISO Channel
Authors: Abouda A. A. , Tarhuni N.G.
Published: May 2017

In contrast to the rest of wireless communication technologies, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology enjoys different gain mechanisms that make it very attractive for reliable high data rate wireless communications. This paper presents a study on these gain mechanisms with particular emphasis on the case of high average received signal to noise ratio (SNR) where the MIMO system deployment is most promising. We write the MIMO channel capacity in terms of gains relative to a single- input single-output (SISO) wireless channel. Doing so, spatial multiplexing gain and power gain of MIMO wireless channels become more insightful. Based on this analysis a switching scheme between spatial multiplexing and transmit diversity is proposed. We support our discussion with numerical results which show that under a high data rate spatial multiplexing scheme the contribution of each gain mechanism to the total channel capacity depends on the channel Ricean factor, the average received SNR, and the MIMO system size. The proposed switching scheme gives about 2 dB gain in bit error rate performance relative to the spatial multiplexing mode.
Different Zoom Approaches for Improving Spectral Resolution with Applications in Radar Signal Processing
Authors: Hossen A. , Heute U.
Published: May 2017

Different approaches for a high-resolution analysis of narrow-band spectra are reviewed and compared. Partial-band algorithms are proved to be zoom-FFT's. In this contribution, three new modifications of the (Subband-FFT) SB-FFT are presented. In the first modification the chirp z-transform substitutes the small FFT which calculates the band of interest. In the second modification, the idea of zero-padding the input signal is applied to the SB-FFT with pruning at both input and output. Lastly zooming a small band of frequencies using a method of transforming by parts is applied for a narrow-band signal using the adaptive SB-FFT. A newly introduced version of the subband technique is included also in this work. In this version the subband decomposition technique is combined with the linear prediction method for higher spectrum resolution. Application of the SB-FFT and its modified versions and the new version in measuring the Doppler-frequency directly and indirectly for the purpose of vehicle-speed measurements is introduced in this paper. Comparison between all methods in terms of complexity and resolution is given. A new idea of channel test is included to keep the real-time successive measurements of Doppler frequency stable and consistent as well as simple.
Boron Steel: An Alternative for Costlier Nickel and Molybdenum Alloyed Steel for Transmission Gears
Authors: Verma A. , Gopinath K. , Sarkar B.
Published: May 2017

Case Carburized (CC) low carbon steels containing Ni, Cr and Mo alloying elements are widely used for transmission gears in automobile, as it possesses desired mechanical properties. In order to cut cost and save scarce materials like Ni and Mo for strategic applications, steel alloyed with Boron has been developed, which gives properties comparable to Ni-Cr-Mo alloyed steel. In the process of steel development, care was taken to ensure precipitation of boron which results in precipitation hardening. The characterization of the developed boron steel had exhibited properties comparable to Ni-Cr-Mo alloyed steel and superior to conventional boron steel.
Exploring Possible Seasonal Trends in Mortality Rate in Relation to Age, Gender and Environmental Conditions in Kuwait: A Preliminary Analysis
Authors: Al-Rifaia N. , Elmi A. , Khan A.R.
Published: May 2017

Inherently, Kuwait a high frequency of dusty events through out the year due to its arid climate. Particulate air pollution has been linked to increased mortality due to various illnesses. For the purpose of improving health services, it is important to develop/establish an empirical basis for the possible link between mortality and air quality. In this paper, we examined mortality rates in Kuwait in relation to age, sex and dust episodes during a five-year period. Each year was divided into four seasons to detect any potential episodes in the death rate for a particular season. The results showed that the mortality rates did not correlate significantly (p  = 0.67) with the occurrence of total dust events. Contrary to the popular perception in Kuwait that illnesses and, consequently, deaths increased in recent years as a result of deteriorating air quality due to particulate matter, the collected data did not show a consistent temporal trend. While this work represents an initial effort on an important issue upon which further investigations can be elaborated upon, a more detailed data have to be collected and analyzed.
Neuro-Fuzzy Sensor Fault Diagnosis of an Induction Motor
Authors: Benloucif M. L.
Published: May 2017

In this paper, a neuro-fuzzy fault diagnosis scheme is presented and its ability to detect and isolate sensor faults in an induction motor is assessed. This fault detection and isolation (FDI) approach relies on a combination of neural modelling and fuzzy logic techniques which can deal effectively with nonlinear dynamics and uncertainties. It is based on a two step neural network procedure: a first neural network is used for residual generation and a second fuzzy neural network performs residual evaluation. Simulation results are given to demonstrate the efficiency of this FDI approach.
Complexity Analysis of Industrial Organizations Based on a Perspective of Systems Engineering Analysts
Authors: Garbie I. H. , Shikdar A. A.
Published: May 2017

Complexity in industrial organizations became more difficult and complex to be solved and it needs more attention from academicians and technicians. For these reasons, complexity in industrial organizations represents a new challenge in the next decades. Until now, analysis of industrial organizations complexity is still remaining a research topic of immense international interest and they require reduction in their complexity. In this paper, analysis of complexity in industrial organizations is shown based on the perspective of systems engineering analyst. In this perspective, analysis of complexity was divided into different levels and these levels were defined as complexity levels. A framework of analyzing these levels was proposed and suggested based on the complexity in industrial organizations. This analysis was divided into four main issues: industrial system vision, industrial system structure, industrial system operating, and industrial system evaluating. This analysis shows that the complexity of industrial organizations is still an ill-structured and a multi-dimensional problem.
CFD Analysis of Water Solitary Wave Reflection
Authors: Smida K. , Lamloumi H. , Maalel K. , Hafsia Z.
Published: May 2017

A new numerical wave generation method is used to investigate the head-on collision of two solitary waves. The reflection at vertical wall of a solitary wave is also presented. The originality of this model, based on the Navier-Stokes equations, is the specification of an internal inlet velocity, defined as a source line within the computational domain for the generation of these non linear waves. This model was successfully implemented in the PHOENICS (Parabolic Hyperbolic Or Elliptic Numerical Integration Code Series) code. The collision of two counter-propagating solitary waves is similar to the interaction of a soliton with a vertical wall. This wave generation method allows the saving of considerable time for this collision process since the counter-propagating wave is generated directly without reflection at vertical wall. For the collision of two solitary waves, numerical results show that the run-up phenomenon can be well explained, the solution of the maximum wave run-up is almost equal to experimental measurement. The simulated wave profiles during the collision are in good agreement with experimental results. For the reflection at vertical wall, the spatial profiles of the wave at fixed instants show that this problem is equivalent to the collision process.
Prediction of Hourly Solar Radiation on Horizontal and Inclined Surfaces for Muscat/Oman
Authors: Al-Rawahi N.Z. , Zurigat Y.H. , Al-Azri N.A.
Published: May 2017

In this paper, hourly terrestrial radiation: direct beam, diffuse and global solar radiation are modelled and calculated based on daily measured data for a horizontal surface. In addition, the same parameters were modelled for inclined surfaces. Most of the parameters modelled in this work represent a part of the input data required by building thermal simulation and solar energy systems software. Important trends of the solar radiation on tilted surfaces as a function of time and direction are being presented and discussed. The comparison of some of the results with measured data from other sources shows good agreement. The effect of tilt angle and orientation on the incident solar radiation fluxes arepresented along with optimum surface tilt angles and directions for maximum solar radiation collection in Muscat area. The results presented in this paper are quite useful for quick estimation of solar radiation for calculations of cooling load and solar collector performance. Also, the models and the computer code developed in this work form the backbone of any computer-aided building thermal design and solar systems design calculations.
Load-Displacement Curves of Spot Welded, Bonded, and Weld-Bonded Joints for Dissimilar Materials and Thickness
Authors: Al-Bahkali E.A.
Published: May 2017

Three-dimensional finite element models of spot welded, bonded and weld-bonded joints are developed using ABAQUS software. Each model consists of two strips with dissimilar materials and thickness and is subjected to an axial loading. The bonded and weld-bonded joints have specific adhesive thickness. A detailed experimental plan to define many properties and quantities such as, the elastic - plastic properties, modulus of elasticity, fracture limit, and properties of the nugget and heat affected zones are carried out. Experiments include standard testing of the base metal, the adhesive, the nugget and heat affected zone. They also include employing the indentation techniques, and ductile fracture limits criteria, using the special notch tests. Complete load-displacement curves are obtained for all joining models and a comparison is made to determine the best combination.
Flow Asymmetry in Symmetric Multiple Impinging Jets: A Large Eddy Simulation Approach
Authors: Kharoua N. , Khezzar L.
Published: May 2017

A numerical study on in-line arrays of multiple turbulent round impinging jets on a flat heated plate was conducted. The Large Eddy Simulation turbulence model was used to capture details of the instantaneous and mean flow fields. The Reynolds number, based on the jets diameter, was equal to 20,000. In addition to flow features known from single jets, the interaction between the neighboring jets was successfully elucidated. Symmetry boundary conditions were imposed to reduce the computational domain to only a quarter. In accordance with previous numerical and experimental works, the asymmetry in the velocity field near to the impingement plate was also found to exist. LES showed oval imprints of the Nusselt number similar to experiments but with some discrepancies on the symmetry boundaries. The asymmetry, observed in previous experimental and numerical results, in the horizontal planes, parallel and close to the impingement wall, was confirmed. The recirculation zone responsible for asymmetry, known to develop due to the wall jets interaction, was seen in only one side of the diagonal formed by the central and the farthest jets.
Competitividade da Indústria de Couro e Calçados de Sri Lanka
Authors: Kusum P.P. Ajith , Yinghua Song
Published: May 2017

This research paper explores the relationship among skills of entrepreneurs of leather  products and footwear industry in Sri Lanka and entrepreneurs’ involvement of innovations in product, process, raw material and market in the industry. Further, the survey investigates firms’ competitiveness and innovativeness in the industry. Database of firms in the industry available in Sri Lanka Industrial Development Board was used to administer an expert reviewed and piloted questionnaire among the population of firms. Personal interviews and a mail survey were undertaken which jointly brought above-average response rate of completed questionnaires used for analysis. The research has found that there is a strong link between skills of entrepreneurs and their involvement in innovations. Research has found that entrepreneur focus on product innovations rather than process, raw material and market innovations due to their low level of general education and the main mode of acquiring skills remains on-the-job-training. Usage of technology has been found to be lower level which has a negative effect on innovations. However, the entrepreneurs have a positive attitude towards innovations the relevant agencies can capitalize-on for expansion of the industry and increase competitiveness. The research unearths an intelligent view that in an efficiency-driven economy, what matters is productivity where skilling of entrepreneurs will yield enormous results for harnessing the potential of this ever growing industry.
A intenção de usar sites de redes sociais: impacto da inovação pessoal.
Authors: Wijesundara T.R. , Xixiang Sun
Published: May 2017

This study empirically investigates the impact of personal innovativeness on Intention to Use (IU) Social Networking Sites (SNS).The theoretical perspective of Technological Acceptance Model (TAM) and Personal Innovativeness of Information Technology (PIIT) were used to explain the relationships developed in the study. This research is descriptive in nature and based on primary data collected through a self-administered questionnaire, administered to a sample of 216 undergraduates in Sri Lanka. Findings reconfirmed the relationships in original TAM, enabling to use TAM in SNS context. Further, we found PIIT is significant in predicting IU SNS. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings and directions for further research are discussed.
Impacto das exportações de alta tecnologia no crescimento econômico: evidências empíricas do Paquistão
Authors: Usman Muhammad
Published: May 2017

The goal of this study is to explore the impact of high tech exports on economic growth of Pakistan. To examine this relationship, data are collected from World Bank database, State Bank of Pakistan data source and Statistical Bureau of Pakistan. Time span of study is consisting of 20 years from 1995 to 2014. By using ordinary least square (OLS) with robust standard error, results confirm that there is a positive and statistically significant impact of high tech exports on economic growth. Although Pakistan is an agriculture country and its economic growth is largely depend upon farming, but for long run economic growth, Pakistan has to increase its high tech exports.
Splenomegaly in small‐breed dogs: 45 cases(2005–2011)
Authors: Corbin Erin E. , Cavanaugh Ryan P. , Schwartz Pamela , Zawadzki Katherine I. , Donovan Taryn
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

To assess causes of splenomegaly and postsurgical outcomes in small-breed (ie, < 16-kg [< 35.2-lb]) dogs that underwent splenectomy and evaluate associations among malignant disease, hemoperitoneum, and survival time in these patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

ANIMALS

45 client-owned dogs.

PROCEDURES

Medical records of 2 veterinary facilities were reviewed to identify small-breed dogs that underwent splenectomy and had a histologic diagnosis recorded. Data analyzed included signalment, diagnosis, presence or absence of hemoperitoneum, and survival time.

RESULTS

21 dogs had malignant neoplasia and 24 had benign splenic diseases. Hemangiosarcoma was the most common malignancy (14/21 [67%] dogs) and lymphoid nodular hyperplasia, hematoma, or extramedullary hematopoiesis (alone or in combination) was most commonly diagnosed in dogs with benign disease (17/24 [71%]). Wheaton Terriers were significantly more likely to have malignant splenic disease than were dogs of other breeds. Malignant splenic disease and the presence of hemoperitoneum had significant negative associations with survival time. Malignant disease was not significantly associated with the presence of hemoperitoneum.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Causes for splenomegaly and survival times were similar to those previously reported for populations that primarily included large-breed dogs. There were approximately equal numbers of benign and malignant causes for splenomegaly in this population. Results suggested that Wheaton Terriers with splenomegaly had a higher likelihood of malignant neoplasia than other breeds and that hemoperitoneum may not be a significant predictor of malignancy in small-breed dogs. However, further research including a larger number of dogs is needed to confirm these findings. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2017;250:1148–1154)
EFECTO DEL CONTENIDO PROTEICO Y ENERGÉTICO DE DIETAS EN EL CRECIMIENTO DE ALEVINOS DE GAMITANA (Colosssoma macropomum)
Authors: PADILLA-PÉREZ Palmira P.
Published: May 2017

Se utilizaron alevinos de gamitana, Colossoma macropomum, con peso promedio de 8,13 g, obtenidos por reproducción artificial, colocados en dos estanques de 2 640 m2 y 2 940 m2 a una densidad de 1 pez/m2, a fin de estudiar el efecto de dos niveles de proteína bruta (18,50% y 24,69%) y de energía bruta (345,91 y 353,78 kcal/g) sobre el crecimiento de los peces. El experimento tuvo una duración de 180 días, durante los cuales los peces fueron alimentados al 3% de la biomasa total de cada estanque. Los pesos promedios finales de los peces fueron de 409,97 y 673,20 g, y la biomasa de 1 205,31 y 1 777,29 g, respectivamente. La conversión alimenticia aparente (CAA) de los peces fue de 2,7 y 2,9.
ESTRUCTURA Y COMPOSICIÓN FLORÍSTICA DEL BOSQUE DE LA LLANURA ALUVIAL INUNDABLE DE LA AMAZONÍA PERUANA: II. EL SOTOBOSQUE DE LA RESTINGA
Authors: NEBEL Gustav , DRAGSTED Jens , VANCLAY Jerome K.
Published: May 2017

En este documento se describen la estructura y la composición florística de pequeños árboles y arbustos (1,5 m de altura y hasta 10 cm de DAP), de dos bosques de la llanura aluvial inundable del bajo Ucayali, en la Amazonía Peruana. Estos bosques son del tipo restinga alta y restinga baja, con una inundación anual promedio de alrededor de 1 a 2 meses, respectivamente. Los suelos son entisoles ricos en nutrientes, y la vegetación arbórea forma altas copas cerradas con la presencia de árboles emergentes. Se establecieron un total de 25 parcelas permanentes de muestreo cubriendo un área de 0,64 ha. Estas fueron colocadas dentro de seis parcelas permanentes de muestreo de una hectárea cuadrada, en donde se inventariaron individuos (>10 cm DAP). La densidad promedio total y el área basal del sotobosque es de 4 458 plantas/ ha y 5,0 m2 /ha, respectivamente. Dentro de las familias de árboles más importantes están Moraceae, Leguminosae, Annonaceae, Euphorbiaceae y Lauraceae; mientras que las familias de árboles pequeños y arbustos importantes son Violaceae, Rubiaceae, Melastomataceae y Olacaceae. De un total de 264 especies arbóreas, 208 se registraron en la restinga de estrato superior y 204 se registraron en la restinga de sotobosque. El 56% de las especies se encuentran compartiendo los dos estratos de bosque, mientras que cerca del 22% están confinados a uno de ellos solamente. Las especies presentes solamente en el sotobosque son predominantemente arbustos o arbolitos, mientras que algunas de las especies, presentes solamente en el estrato superior, son probablemente especies de sucesión temprana casi por desaparecer de los bosques.
ARBOL DE LA LLANURA ALUVIAL AMAZÓNICA Maquira coriacea (Karsten) C.C. Berg: ASPECTOS DE ECOLOGÍA Y MANEJO
Authors: NEBEL Gustav
Published: May 2017

Maquira coriacea es un árbol de valor comercial que se encuentra a lo largo y ancho de los bosques de la llanura aluvial inundable de la Amazonía. En este documento se describe su reproducción, su patrón de dispersión y otros atributos sobre la biología y ecología de su población. Se observaron densidades de hasta 14 individuos por hectárea con DAP > 10 cm, con un área basal de 2 m2/ha y un volumen de 38 m3/ha. El principal periodo de fructificación coincidió con la inundación anual, pero también se produjeron frutos en otros periodos del año. Se encontró regeneración natural con densidades de hasta 150 ind/m2 concentrados alrededor de los árboles madre; sin embargo, su permanencia fluctúa a lo largo del año por la mortalidad causada por las inundaciones y la marchitez en los periodos secos. Con el fin de desarrollar modelos de (1) relación altura-diámetro y (2) incremento de diámetro, se usaron principalmente datos de crecimiento de nueve parcelas de muestreo de una ha. Estas relaciones indican que el límite óptimo de diámetro de apeo para obtener el máximo volumen de producción es de 115-130 cm de DAP, los cuales pueden ser obtenidos en 135-300 años. Debido a que se ha observado producción de semillas en individuos muchos más pequeños, tales límites diamétricos no deberían ser desventajosos para la regeneración.