Abstract: The Mobile IP Standard has been developed to support mobility over the Internet. This standard contains several drawbacks as in the cases where packets are routed via sub-optimal paths and significant amount of signaling messages is generated due to the home registration procedure which keeps the network aware of the current location of the mobile nodes. Recently, a dynamic hierarchical mobility management strategy for mobile IP networks (DHMIP) has been proposed to reduce home registrations costs. However, this strategy induces a packet delivery delay and increases the risk of packet loss. In this paper, we propose an enhanced version of the dynamic hierarchical strategy that reduces the packet delivery delay and minimizes the risk of packet loss. Preliminary results obtained from simulations are promising. They show that the enhanced version outperforms the original dynamic hierarchical mobility management strategy version.
Abstract: This paper studies the effect of time delay on stability
of mutualism population model with limited resources for both
species. First, the stability of the model without time delay is
analyzed. The model is then improved by considering a time delay in
the mechanism of the growth rate of the population. We analyze the
effect of time delay on the stability of the stable equilibrium point.
Result showed that the time delay can induce instability of the stable
equilibrium point, bifurcation and stability switches.
Abstract: In deregulated operating regime power system security is an issue that needs due thoughtfulness from researchers in the horizon of unbundling of generation and transmission. Electric power systems are exposed to various contingencies. Network contingencies often contribute to overloading of branches, violation of voltages and also leading to problems of security/stability. To maintain the security of the systems, it is desirable to estimate the effect of contingencies and pertinent control measurement can be taken on to improve the system security. This paper presents the application of particle swarm optimization algorithm to find the optimal location of multi type FACTS devices in a power system in order to eliminate or alleviate the line over loads. The optimizations are performed on the parameters, namely the location of the devices, their types, their settings and installation cost of FACTS devices for single and multiple contingencies. TCSC, SVC and UPFC are considered and modeled for steady state analysis. The selection of UPFC and TCSC suitable location uses the criteria on the basis of improved system security. The effectiveness of the proposed method is tested for IEEE 6 bus and IEEE 30 bus test systems.
Abstract: A new algorithm called Character-Comparison to
Character-Access (CCCA) is developed to test the effect of both: 1)
converting character-comparison and number-comparison into
character-access and 2) the starting point of checking on the
performance of the checking operation in string searching. An
experiment is performed; the results are compared with five
algorithms, namely, Naive, BM, Inf_Suf_Pref, Raita, and Circle.
With the CCCA algorithm, the results suggest that the evaluation
criteria of the average number of comparisons are improved up to
74.0%. Furthermore, the results suggest that the clock time required
by the other algorithms is improved in range from 28% to 68% by the
new CCCA algorithm
Abstract: Current proposals for E-passport or ID-Card is similar to a regular passport with the addition of tiny contactless integrated circuit (computer chip) inserted in the back cover, which will act as a secure storage device of the same data visually displayed on the photo page of the passport. In addition, it will include a digital photograph that will enable biometric comparison, through the use of facial recognition technology at international borders. Moreover, the e-passport will have a new interface, incorporating additional antifraud and security features. However, its problems are reliability, security and privacy. Privacy is a serious issue since there is no encryption between the readers and the E-passport. However, security issues such as authentication, data protection and control techniques cannot be embedded in one process. In this paper, design and prototype implementation of an improved E-passport reader is presented. The passport holder is authenticated online by using GSM network. The GSM network is the main interface between identification center and the e-passport reader. The communication data is protected between server and e-passport reader by using AES to encrypt data for protection will transferring through GSM network. Performance measurements indicate a 19% improvement in encryption cycles versus previously reported results.
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to examine the inter
relationships among various leadership branding constructs of
entrepreneurs in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). We
employ a quantitative structural equation modeling through a new
leadership branding engagement model comprises constructs of
leader-s or entrepreneur-s personality, branding practice and
customer engagement. The results confirm that there are significant
relationships between the three constructs and the major fit indices
indicate that the data fits the proposed model. The findings provide
insights and fill in the literature gaps on statistically validated
representation of leadership branding for SMEs across new economic
regions of Malaysia that may implicate other economic zones with
similar situations. This study extends the establishment of a
leadership branding engagement model with a new mechanism of
using leaders- personality as a predictor to branding practice and
customer engagement performance.
Abstract: Time-Cost Optimization "TCO" is one of the greatest challenges in construction project planning and control, since the optimization of either time or cost, would usually be at the expense of the other. Since there is a hidden trade-off relationship between project and cost, it might be difficult to predict whether the total cost would increase or decrease as a result of the schedule compression. Recently third dimension in trade-off analysis is taken into consideration that is quality of the projects. Few of the existing algorithms are applied in a case of construction project with threedimensional trade-off analysis, Time-Cost-Quality relationships. The objective of this paper is to presents the development of a practical software system; that named Automatic Multi-objective Typical Construction Resource Optimization System "AMTCROS". This system incorporates the basic concepts of Line Of Balance "LOB" and Critical Path Method "CPM" in a multi-objective Genetic Algorithms "GAs" model. The main objective of this system is to provide a practical support for typical construction planners who need to optimize resource utilization in order to minimize project cost and duration while maximizing its quality simultaneously. The application of these research developments in planning the typical construction projects holds a strong promise to: 1) Increase the efficiency of resource use in typical construction projects; 2) Reduce construction duration period; 3) Minimize construction cost (direct cost plus indirect cost); and 4) Improve the quality of newly construction projects. A general description of the proposed software for the Time-Cost-Quality Trade-Off "TCQTO" is presented. The main inputs and outputs of the proposed software are outlined. The main subroutines and the inference engine of this software are detailed. The complexity analysis of the software is discussed. In addition, the verification, and complexity of the proposed software are proved and tested using a real case study.
Abstract: This study aims to assess the potential of solar energy technology for improving access to water and hence the livelihood strategies of rural communities in Baja California Sur, Mexico. It focuses on livestock ranches and photovoltaic water-pumptechnology as well as other water extraction methods. The methodology used are the Sustainable Livelihoods and the Appropriate Technology approaches. A household survey was applied in June of 2006 to 32 ranches in the municipality, of which 22 used PV pumps; and semi-structured interviews were conducted. Findings indicate that solar pumps have in fact helped people improve their quality of life by allowing them to pursue a different livelihood strategy and that improved access to water -not necessarily as more water but as less effort to extract and collect it- does not automatically imply overexploitation of the resource; consumption is based on basic needs as well as on storage and pumping capacity. Justification for such systems lies in the avoidance of logistical problems associated to fossil fuels, PV pumps proved to be the most beneficial when substituting gasoline or diesel equipment but of dubious advantage if intended to replace wind or gravity systems. Solar water pumping technology-s main obstacle to dissemination are high investment and repairs costs and it is therefore not suitable for all cases even when insolation rates and water availability are adequate. In cases where affordability is not an obstacle it has become an important asset that contributes –by means of reduced expenses, less effort and saved time- to the improvement of livestock, the main livelihood provider for these ranches.
Abstract: The optimal control is one of the possible controllers
for a dynamic system, having a linear quadratic regulator and using
the Pontryagin-s principle or the dynamic programming method .
Stochastic disturbances may affect the coefficients (multiplicative
disturbances) or the equations (additive disturbances), provided that
the shocks are not too great . Nevertheless, this approach encounters
difficulties when uncertainties are very important or when the probability
calculus is of no help with very imprecise data. The fuzzy
logic contributes to a pragmatic solution of such a problem since it
operates on fuzzy numbers. A fuzzy controller acts as an artificial
decision maker that operates in a closed-loop system in real time.
This contribution seeks to explore the tracking problem and control
of dynamic macroeconomic models using a fuzzy learning algorithm.
A two inputs - single output (TISO) fuzzy model is applied to the
linear fluctuation model of Phillips and to the nonlinear growth model
of Goodwin.
Abstract: Identification of cancer genes that might anticipate
the clinical behaviors from different types of cancer disease is
challenging due to the huge number of genes and small number of
patients samples. The new method is being proposed based on
supervised learning of classification like support vector machines
(SVMs).A new solution is described by the introduction of the
Maximized Margin (MM) in the subset criterion, which permits to
get near the least generalization error rate. In class prediction
problem, gene selection is essential to improve the accuracy and to
identify genes for cancer disease. The performance of the new
method was evaluated with real-world data experiment. It can give
the better accuracy for classification.
Abstract: In this paper we consider a nonlinear feedback control called augmented automatic choosing control (AACC) for nonlinear systems with constrained input. Constant terms which arise from section wise linearization of a given nonlinear system are treated as coefficients of a stable zero dynamics.Parameters included in the control are suboptimally selectedby extremizing a combination of Hamiltonian and Lyapunov functions with the aid of the genetic algorithm. This approach is applied to a field excitation control problem of power system to demonstrate the splendidness of the AACC. Simulation results show that the new controller can improve performance remarkably well.
Abstract: In mammalian reproductive tract, the oviduct secretes
huge number of growth factors and cytokines that create an optimal
micro-environment for the initial stages of preimplantation embryos.
Secretion of these growth factors is stage-specific. Among them,
VEGF is a potent mitogen for vascular endothelium and stimulates
vascular permeability. Apart from angiogenesis, VEGF in the oviduct
may be involved in regulating the oocyte maturation and subsequent
developmental process during embryo production in vitro. In
experiment 1, to evaluate the effect of VEGF during IVM of porcine
COC and subsequent developmental ability after PA and SCNT. The
results from these experiments indicated that maturation rates among
the different VEGF concentrations were not significant different. In
experiment 2, total intracellular GSH concentrations of oocytes
matured with VEGF (5-50 ng/ml) were increased significantly
compared to a control and VEGF group (500 ng/ml). In experiment 3,
the blastocyst formation rates and total cell number per blastocyst
after parthenogenesis of oocytes matured with VEGF (5-50 ng/ml)
were increased significantly compared to a control and VEGF group
(500 ng/ml). Similarly, in experiment 4, the blastocyst formation rate
and total cell number per blastocyst after SCNT and IVF of oocytes
matured with VEGF (5 ng/ml) were significantly higher than that of
oocytes matured without VEGF group. In experiment 5, at 10 hour
after the onset of IVF, pronuclear formation rate was evaluated.
Monospermy was significantly higher in VEGF-matured oocytes than
in the control, and polyspermy and sperm penetration per oocyte
were significantly higher in the control group than in the VEGFmatured
oocytes. Supplementation with VEGF during IVM
significantly improved male pronuclear formation as compared with
the control. In experiment 6, type III cortical granule distribution in
oocytes was more common in VEGF-matured oocytes than in the
control. In conclusion, the present study suggested that
supplementation of VEGF during IVM may enhance the
developmental potential of porcine in vitro embryos through increase
of the intracellular GSH level, higher MPN formation and increased
fertilization rate as a consequence of an improved cytoplasmic
maturation.
Abstract: This paper develops a pedometer with a three-axis acceleration sensor that can be placed with any angle. The proposed pedometer measures the number of steps while users walk, jog or run. It can be worn on users’ waistband or placed within pocket or backpack. The work address to improve on the general pedometers, which can only be used in a single direction or can only count of steps without the continuous exercise judgment mechanism. Finally, experimental results confirm the superior performance of the proposed pedometer.
Abstract: The presence of a vertical edge-crack within a web
plate subjected to pure bending induces local compressive stresses
about the crack which may cause tension buckling. Approximate
theoretical expressions were derived for the critical far-field tensile
stress and bending moment capacity of an edge-cracked web plate
associated with tension buckling. These expressions were validated
with finite element analyses and used to investigate the possibility of
tension buckling in web-cracked trial girders. It was found that
tension buckling is an unlikely occurrence unless the web is relatively
thin or the crack is very long.
Abstract: The Beshar River is one of the most important aquatic ecosystems in the upstream of the Karun watershed in south of Iran which is affected by point and non point pollutant sources . This study was done in order to evaluate the effects of pollutants activities on the water quality of the Beshar river and its aquatic ecosystems. This river is approximately 190 km in length and situated at the geographical positions of 51° 20´ to 51° 48´ E and 30° 18´ to 30° 52´ N it is one of the most important aquatic ecosystems of Kohkiloye and Boyerahmad province in south-west Iran. In this research project, five study stations were selected to examine water pollution in the Beshar River systems. Human activity is now one of the most important factors affecting on hydrology and water quality of the Beshar river. Humans use large amounts of resources to sustain various standards of living, although measures of sustainability are highly variable depending on how sustainability is defined. The Beshar river ecosystems are particularly sensitive and vulnerable to human activities. Therefore, to determine the impact of human activities on the Beshar River, the most important water quality parameters such as pH, dissolve oxygen (DO), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Total Dissolve Solids (TDS), Nitrates (NO3-N) and Phosphates (PO4) were estimated at the five stations. As the results show, the most important pollution index parameters such as BOD5, NO3 and PO4 increase and DO and pH decrease according to human activities (P
Abstract: The problem of N cracks interaction in an isotropic
elastic solid is decomposed into a subproblem of a homogeneous solid
without crack and N subproblems with each having a single crack
subjected to unknown tractions on the two crack faces. The unknown
tractions, namely pseudo tractions on each crack are expanded into
polynomials with unknown coefficients, which have to be determined
by the consistency condition, i.e. by the equivalence of the original
multiple cracks interaction problem and the superposition of the N+1
subproblems. In this paper, Kachanov-s approach of average tractions
is extended into the method of moments to approximately impose the
consistence condition. Hence Kachanov-s method can be viewed as
the zero-order method of moments. Numerical results of the stress
intensity factors are presented for interactions of two collinear cracks,
three collinear cracks, two parallel cracks, and three parallel cracks.
As the order of moment increases, the accuracy of the method of
moments improves.
Abstract: The ongoing effort to develop an in-house
compressible solver with multi-disciplinary physics is presented in
this paper. Basic compressible solver combined with IBM technique
provides us an effective numerical tool able to tackle the physics
phenomena and especially physic phenomena involved in Solid
Rocket Motors (SRMs). Main principles are introduced step by step
describing its implementation. This paper sheds light on the whole
potentiality of our proposed numerical model and we strongly believe
a way to introduce multi-physics mechanisms strongly coupled is
opened to ablation in nozzle, fluid/structure interaction and burning
propellant surface with time.
Abstract: Rotor Flux based Model Reference Adaptive System
(RF-MRAS) is the most popularly used conventional speed
estimation scheme for sensor-less IM drives. In this scheme, the
voltage model equations are used for the reference model. This
encounters major drawbacks at low frequencies/speed which leads to
the poor performance of RF-MRAS. Replacing the reference model
using Neural Network (NN) based flux estimator provides an
alternate solution and addresses such drawbacks. This paper
identifies an NN based flux estimator using Single Neuron Cascaded
(SNC) Architecture. The proposed SNC-NN model replaces the
conventional voltage model in RF-MRAS to form a novel MRAS
scheme named as SNC-NN-MRAS. Through simulation the proposed
SNC-NN-MRAS is shown to be promising in terms of all major
issues and robustness to parameter variation. The suitability of the
proposed SNC-NN-MRAS based speed estimator and its advantages
over RF-MRAS for sensor-less induction motor drives is
comprehensively presented through extensive simulations.
Abstract: This work presents a theoretical investigation of the
simultaneous absorption of CO2 and H2S into aqueous solutions of
MDEA and DEA. In this process the acid components react
with the basic alkanolamine solution via an exothermic,
reversible reaction in a gas/liquid absorber. The use of amine
solvents for gas sweetening has been investigated using
process simulation programs called HYSYS and ASPEN. We
use Electrolyte NRTL and Amine Package and Amines
(experimental) equation of state. The effects of temperature and
circulation rate and amine concentration and packed column and
murphree efficiency on the rate of absorption were studied.
When lean amine flow and concentration increase, CO2 and H2S
absorption increase too. With the improvement of inlet amine
temperature in absorber, CO2 and H2S penetrate to upper stages of
absorber and absorption of acid gases in absorber decreases. The CO2
concentration in the clean gas can be greatly influenced by the
packing height, whereas for the H2S concentration in the clean gas the
packing height plays a minor role. HYSYS software can not
estimate murphree efficiency correctly and it applies the same
contributions in all diagrams for HYSYS software. By
improvement in murphree efficiency, maximum temperature
of absorber decrease and the location of reaction transfer to the
stages of bottoms absorber and the absorption of acid gases
increase.
Abstract: Building condition assessment is a critical activity in Malaysia-s Comprehensive Asset Management Model. It is closely related to building performance that impact user-s life and decision making. This study focuses on public primary school, one of the most valuable assets for the country. The assessment was carried out based on CSP1 Matrix in Kuching Division of Sarawak, Malaysia. Based on the matrix used, three main criteria of the buildings has successfully evaluate: the number of defects; schools rating; and total schools rating. The analysis carried out on 24 schools found that the overall 4, 725 defects has been identified. Meanwhile, the overall score obtained was 45, 868 and the overall rating is 9.71, which is at the fair condition. This result has been associated with building age to evaluate its impacts on school buildings condition. The findings proved that building condition is closely related to building age and its support the theory that 'the ageing building has more defect than the new one'.