Abstract: A scaffold is necessary for tooth regeneration because of its three-dimensional geometry. For restoration of defect, it is necessary for the scaffold to be prepared in the shape of the defect. Sponges made from polyvinyl alcohol with formalin cross-linking (PVF sponge) have been used for scaffolds for bone formation in vivo. To induce osteogenesis within the sponge, methods of growing rat bone marrow cells (rBMCs) among the fiber structures in the sponge might be considered. Storage of rBMCs among the fibers in the sponge coated with dextran (10 kDa) was tried. After seeding of rBMCs to PVF sponge immersed in dextran solution at 2 g/dl concentration, osteogenesis was recognized in subcutaneously implanted PVF sponge as a scaffold in vivo. The level of osteocalcin was 25.28±5.71 ng/scaffold and that of Ca was 129.20±19.69 µg/scaffold. These values were significantly higher than those in sponges without dextran coating (p
Abstract: The production of glass, ceramic materials and many non-ferrous metals (Zn, Cu, Pb, etc.), ferrous metals (pig iron) and others is connected with the use of a considerable number of initial solid raw materials. Before carrying out the basic technological processes (oxidized roasting, melting, agglomeration, baking) it is necessary to mix and homogenize the raw materials that have different chemical and phase content, granulometry and humidity. For this purpose zinc sulfide concentrates differing in origin are studied for their more complete characteristics using chemical, X-ray diffraction analyses, DTA and TGA as well as Mössbauer spectroscopy. The phases established in most concentrates are: β-ZnS, mZnS.nFeS, FeS2, CuFeS2, PbS, SiO2 (α-quartz). With the help of the developed by us a Web-based information system for a continued period of time different mix proportions from zinc concentrates are calculated and used in practice (roasting in fluidized bed reactor), which have to conform to the technological requirements of the zinc hydrometallurgical technological scheme.
Abstract: Recently, Genetic Algorithms (GA) and Differential
Evolution (DE) algorithm technique have attracted considerable
attention among various modern heuristic optimization techniques.
Since the two approaches are supposed to find a solution to a given
objective function but employ different strategies and computational
effort, it is appropriate to compare their performance. This paper
presents the application and performance comparison of DE and GA
optimization techniques, for flexible ac transmission system
(FACTS)-based controller design. The design objective is to enhance
the power system stability. The design problem of the FACTS-based
controller is formulated as an optimization problem and both the PSO
and GA optimization techniques are employed to search for optimal
controller parameters. The performance of both optimization
techniques has been compared. Further, the optimized controllers are
tested on a weekly connected power system subjected to different
disturbances, and their performance is compared with the
conventional power system stabilizer (CPSS). The eigenvalue
analysis and non-linear simulation results are presented and
compared to show the effectiveness of both the techniques in
designing a FACTS-based controller, to enhance power system
stability.
Abstract: As the development of digital technology is increasing,
Digital cinema is getting more spread.
However, content copy and attack against the digital cinema becomes
a serious problem. To solve the above security problem, we propose
“Additional Watermarking" for digital cinema delivery system. With
this proposed “Additional watermarking" method, we protect content
copyrights at encoder and user side information at decoder. It realizes
the traceability of the watermark embedded at encoder.
The watermark is embedded into the random-selected frames using
Hash function. Using it, the embedding position is distributed by Hash
Function so that third parties do not break off the watermarking
algorithm.
Finally, our experimental results show that proposed method is much
better than the convenient watermarking techniques in terms of
robustness, image quality and its simple but unbreakable algorithm.
Abstract: After the accounting scandals and the financial crisis, regulators have stressed the need for more financial experts on boards. Several studies conducted in countries with developed capital markets report positive effects of board financial competencies. As each country offers a different context and specific institutional factors this paper addresses the subject in the context of Romania. The Romanian capital market offers an interesting research field because of the heterogeneity of listed firms. After analyzing board members education based on public information posted on listed companies websites and their annual reports we found a positive association between the proportion of board members holding a postgraduate degree in financial fields and market based performance measured by Tobin q. We found also that the proportion of Board members holding degrees in financial fields is higher in bigger firms and firms with more concentrated ownership.
Abstract: Magnesium wastes and scraps, one of the metal wastes, are produced by many industrial activities, all over the world. Their growing size is becoming a future problem for the world. In this study, the use of magnesium wastes as a raw material in the production of the magnesium borate hydrates are aimed. The method used in the experiments is hydrothermal synthesis. The conditions are set to, waste magnesium to B2O3, 1:3 as a molar ratio. Four different reaction times are studied which are 30, 60, 120 and 240 minutes. For the identification analyses X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Raman spectroscopy techniques are used. As a result at all the reaction times magnesium borate hydrates are synthesized and the most crystalline forms are obtained at a reaction time of 120 minutes. The overall yields of the production are found between the values of 65-80 %.
Abstract: Removal of PCP by a system combining
biodegradation by biofilm and adsorption was investigated here.
Three studies were conducted employing batch tests, sequencing
batch reactor (SBR) and continuous biofilm activated carbon
column reactor (BACCOR). The combination of biofilm-GAC
batch process removed about 30% more PCP than GAC adsorption
alone. For the SBR processes, both the suspended and attached
biomass could remove more than 90% of the PCP after
acclimatisation. BACCOR was able to remove more than 98% of
PCP-Na at concentrations ranging from 10 to 100 mg/L, at empty
bed contact time (EBCT) ranging from 0.75 to 4 hours. Pure and
mixed cultures from BACCOR were tested for use of PCP as sole
carbon and energy source under aerobic conditions. The isolates
were able to degrade up to 42% of PCP under aerobic conditions in
pure cultures. However, mixed cultures were found able to degrade
more than 99% PCP indicating interdependence of species.
Abstract: Environmental performance of the U.S. States is investigated for the period of 1990 – 2007 using Stochastic Frontier Analysis (SFA). The SFA accounts for both efficiency measure and stochastic noise affecting a frontier. The frontier is formed using indicators of GDP, energy consumption, population, and CO2 emissions. For comparability, all indicators are expressed as ratios to total. Statistical information of the Energy Information Agency of the United States is used. Obtained results reveal the bell - shaped dynamics of environmental efficiency scores. The average efficiency scores rise from 97.6% in 1990 to 99.6% in 1999, and then fall to 98.4% in 2007. The main factor is insufficient decrease in the rate of growth of CO2 emissions with regards to the growth of GDP, population and energy consumption. Data for 2008 following the research period allow for an assumption that the environmental performance of the U.S. States has improved in the last years.
Abstract: This paper outlines the research conducted to propose na framework of 'Knowledge Society' (KS) in the Malaysian context.
It is important to highlight that the emergence of KS is a result of the rapid growth in knowledge and information. However, the discussion
of KS should not only be limited to the importance of knowledge, but a holistic KS is also determined by other imperative dimensions. This
article discusses the results of a study conducted previously in Malaysia in order to identify the essential dimensions of KS, and
consequently propose a KS framework in the Malaysian context.
Two methods were employed, namely the Delphi technique and semi-structured interviews. The modified Delphi involved five
rounds with ten experts, while the interviews were conducted with two prominent figures in Malaysia. The results support the proposed
framework which contains seven major dimensions in order for Malaysia to become a KS in the future. The dimensions which are
crucial for a holistic Malaysian KS are human capital, spirituality, economy, social, institutional, sustainability, and driven by the ICT.
Abstract: This paper presents a real time force sensing instrument that is designed for human gait analysis purposes. This instrument mainly consists of three main elements: the force sensing mat, signal conditioning and switching circuit and data acquisition
device. In order to control and to process the incoming signals from the force sensing mat, Force-Logger and Force-Reloader program are
developed using Labview 8.0. This paper describes the architecture of the force sensing mat, signal conditioning and switching circuit and the real time streaming of the incoming data from the force
sensing mat.
Abstract: In this paper, an analysis is presented, which
demonstrates the effect pre-logic factoring could have on an
automated combinational logic synthesis process succeeding it. The
impact of pre-logic factoring for some arbitrary combinatorial
circuits synthesized within a FPGA based logic design environment
has been analyzed previously. This paper explores a similar effect,
but with the non-regenerative logic synthesized using elements of a
commercial standard cell library. On an overall basis, the results
obtained pertaining to the analysis on a variety of MCNC/IWLS
combinational logic benchmark circuits indicate that pre-logic
factoring has the potential to facilitate simultaneous power, delay and
area optimized synthesis solutions in many cases.
Abstract: This study reports the preparation of soft magnetic ribbons of Fe-based amorphous alloys using the single-roller melt-spinning technique. Ribbon width varied from 142 mm to 213 mm and, with a thickness of approximately 22 μm 2 μm. The microstructure and magnetic properties of the ribbons were characterized by differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and electrical resistivity measurements (ERM). The amorphous material properties dependence of the cooling rate and nozzle pressure have uneven surface in ribbon thicknesses are investigated. Magnetic measurement results indicate that some region of the ribbon exhibits good magnetic properties, higher saturation induction and lower coercivity. However, due to the uneven surface of 213 mm wide ribbon, the magnetic responses are not uniformly distributed. To understand the transformer magnetic performances, this study analyzes the measurements of a three-phase 2 MVA amorphous-cored transformer. Experimental results confirm that the transformer with a ribbon width of 142 mm has better magnetic properties in terms of lower core loss, exciting power, and audible noise.
Abstract: One of the main and responsible units of Sulzer
projectile loom is picking mechanism. It is specifically designed to
accelerate projectile to speed of 25 m / s. Initial speed projectile of
Sulzer projectile loom is independent of speed loom and determined
the potential energy torsion rod. This paper investigates the dynamics
picking mechanism of Sulzer projectile loom during its discharge. A
result of calculation model, we obtain the law of motion lever of
picking mechanism during its discharge. Construction of dynamic
model the picking mechanism of Sulzer projectile loom on software
complex SimulationX can make calculations for different thickness
of torsion rods taking into account the backlashes in the connections,
the dissipative forces and resistance forces
Abstract: METIS is the Multi Element Telescope for Imaging
and Spectroscopy, a Coronagraph aboard the European Space
Agency-s Solar Orbiter Mission aimed at the observation of the solar
corona via both VIS and UV/EUV narrow-band imaging and spectroscopy. METIS, with its multi-wavelength capabilities, will
study in detail the physical processes responsible for the corona heating and the origin and properties of the slow and fast solar wind.
METIS electronics will collect and process scientific data thanks to its detectors proximity electronics, the digital front-end subsystem
electronics and the MPPU, the Main Power and Processing Unit,
hosting a space-qualified processor, memories and some rad-hard
FPGAs acting as digital controllers.This paper reports on the overall
METIS electronics architecture and data processing capabilities
conceived to address all the scientific issues as a trade-off solution between requirements and allocated resources, just before the
Preliminary Design Review as an ESA milestone in April 2012.
Abstract: Segmentation is an important step in medical image
analysis and classification for radiological evaluation or computer
aided diagnosis. The CAD (Computer Aided Diagnosis ) of lung CT
generally first segment the area of interest (lung) and then analyze
the separately obtained area for nodule detection in order to
diagnosis the disease. For normal lung, segmentation can be
performed by making use of excellent contrast between air and
surrounding tissues. However this approach fails when lung is
affected by high density pathology. Dense pathologies are present in
approximately a fifth of clinical scans, and for computer analysis
such as detection and quantification of abnormal areas it is vital that
the entire and perfectly lung part of the image is provided and no
part, as present in the original image be eradicated. In this paper we
have proposed a lung segmentation technique which accurately
segment the lung parenchyma from lung CT Scan images. The
algorithm was tested against the 25 datasets of different patients
received from Ackron Univeristy, USA and AGA Khan Medical
University, Karachi, Pakistan.
Abstract: Local Linear Neuro-Fuzzy Models (LLNFM) like other neuro- fuzzy systems are adaptive networks and provide robust learning capabilities and are widely utilized in various applications such as pattern recognition, system identification, image processing and prediction. Local linear model tree (LOLIMOT) is a type of Takagi-Sugeno-Kang neuro fuzzy algorithm which has proven its efficiency compared with other neuro fuzzy networks in learning the nonlinear systems and pattern recognition. In this paper, a dedicated reconfigurable and parallel processing hardware for LOLIMOT algorithm and its applications are presented. This hardware realizes on-chip learning which gives it the capability to work as a standalone device in a system. The synthesis results on FPGA platforms show its potential to improve the speed at least 250 of times faster than software implemented algorithms.
Abstract: This paper highlights the importance of integrating social and technical approach (which is so called a “hybrid socio-technical approach") as one innovative and strategic program to support the social development in geodisaster prone area in Indonesia. Such program mainly based on public education and community participation as a partnership program by the University, local government and may also with the private company and/ or local NGO. The indigenous, simple and low cost technology has also been introduced and developed as a part of the hybrid sociotechnical system, in order to ensure the life and environmental protection, with respect to the sustainable human and social development.
Abstract: The empirical mode decomposition (EMD) represents any time series into a finite set of basis functions. The bases are termed as intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) which are mutually orthogonal containing minimum amount of cross-information. The EMD successively extracts the IMFs with the highest local frequencies in a recursive way, which yields effectively a set low-pass filters based entirely on the properties exhibited by the data. In this paper, EMD is applied to explore the properties of the multi-year air temperature and to observe its effects on climate change under global warming. This method decomposes the original time-series into intrinsic time scale. It is capable of analyzing nonlinear, non-stationary climatic time series that cause problems to many linear statistical methods and their users. The analysis results show that the mode of EMD presents seasonal variability. The most of the IMFs have normal distribution and the energy density distribution of the IMFs satisfies Chi-square distribution. The IMFs are more effective in isolating physical processes of various time-scales and also statistically significant. The analysis results also show that the EMD method provides a good job to find many characteristics on inter annual climate. The results suggest that climate fluctuations of every single element such as temperature are the results of variations in the global atmospheric circulation.
Abstract: In this work, we incorporated a quartic bond potential
into a coarse-grained bead-spring model to study lubricant adsorption
on a solid surface as well as depletion instability. The surface tension
density and the number density profiles were examined to verify the
solid-liquid and liquid-vapor interfaces during heat treatment. It was
found that both the liquid-vapor interfacial thickness and the
solid-vapor separation increase with the temperatureT* when T*is
below the phase transition temperature Tc
*. At high temperatures
(T*>Tc
*), the solid-vapor separation decreases gradually as the
temperature increases. In addition, we evaluated the lubricant weight
and bond loss profiles at different temperatures. It was observed that
the lubricant desorption is favored over decomposition and is the main
cause of the lubricant failure at the head disk interface in our
simulations.
Abstract: The purpose of the study reported here was designing Information Dissemination System (IDS) based E-learning in agricultural of Iran. A questionnaire was developed to designing Information Dissemination System. The questionnaire was distributed to 96 extension agents who work for Management of Extension and Farming System of Khuzestan province of Iran. Data collected were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Appropriate statistical procedures for description (frequencies, percent, means, and standard deviations) were used. In this study there was a significant relationship between the age , IT skill and knowledge, years of extension work, the extend of information seeking motivation, level of job satisfaction and level of education with use of information technology by extension agent. According to extension agents five factors were ranked respectively as five top essential items to designing Information Dissemination System (IDS) based E-learning in agricultural of Iran. These factors include: 1) Establish communication between farmers, coordinators (extension agents), agricultural experts, research centers, and community by information technology. 2) The communication between all should be mutual. 3) The information must be based farmers need. 4) Internet used as a facility to transfer the advanced agricultural information to the farming community. 5) Farmers can be illiterate and speak a local and they are not expected to use the system directly. Knowledge produced by the agricultural scientist must be transformed in to computer understandable presentation. To designing Information Dissemination System, electronic communication, in the agricultural society and rural areas must be developed. This communication must be mutual between all factors.