Abstract: Different strategies and tools are available at the oil
and gas industry for detecting and analyzing tension and possible
fractures in borehole walls. Most of these techniques are based on
manual observation of the captured borehole images. While this
strategy may be possible and convenient with small images and few
data, it may become difficult and suitable to errors when big
databases of images must be treated. While the patterns may differ
among the image area, depending on many characteristics (drilling
strategy, rock components, rock strength, etc.). In this work we
propose the inclusion of data-mining classification strategies in order
to create a knowledge database of the segmented curves. These
classifiers allow that, after some time using and manually pointing
parts of borehole images that correspond to tension regions and
breakout areas, the system will indicate and suggest automatically
new candidate regions, with higher accuracy. We suggest the use of
different classifiers methods, in order to achieve different knowledge
dataset configurations.
Abstract: This paper is devoted to the study of a viscous
incompressible flow around a circular cylinder performing harmonic
oscillations, especially the steady streaming phenomenon. The
research methodology is based on the asymptotic explanation method
combined with the computational bifurcation analysis. The research
approach develops Schlichting and Wang decomposition method.
Present studies allow to identify several regimes of the secondary
streaming with different flow structures. The results of the research
are in good agreement with experimental and numerical simulation
data.
Abstract: The theoretical approach is developed to describe the
change of drops in the atmosphere of own steam and buffer gas under
irradiation. It is shown that the irradiation influences on size of stable
droplet and on the conditions under which the droplet exists. Under
irradiation the change of drop becomes more complex: the not
monotone and periodical change of size of drop becomes possible.
All possible solutions are represented by means of phase portrait. It is
found all qualitatively different phase portraits as function of critical
parameters: rate generation of clusters and substance density.
Abstract: The use of IT equipment has become a part of every
day. However, each device that is part of cyberspace should be
secured against unauthorized use. It is very important to know the
basics of these security devices, but also the basics of safe conduct
their owners. This information should be part of every curriculum
computer science education in primary and secondary schools.
Therefore, the work focuses on the education of pupils in primary and
secondary schools on the Internet. Analysis of the current state
describes approaches to the education of pupils in security issues on
the Internet. The paper presents a questionnaire-based survey which
was carried out in the Czech Republic, whose task was to ascertain
the level of opinion pupils in primary and secondary schools on the
issue of communication in social networks. The research showed that
awareness of socio-pathological phenomena on the Internet
environment is very low. Based on the results it was proposed
appropriate ways of teaching to this issue and its inclusion a proposal
of curriculum for primary and secondary schools.
Abstract: Health analytics (HA) is used in healthcare systems
for effective decision making, management and planning of
healthcare and related activities. However, user resistances, unique
position of medical data content and structure (including
heterogeneous and unstructured data) and impromptu HA projects
have held up the progress in HA applications. Notably, the accuracy
of outcomes depends on the skills and the domain knowledge of the
data analyst working on the healthcare data. Success of HA depends
on having a sound process model, effective project management and
availability of supporting tools. Thus, to overcome these challenges
through an effective process model, we propose a HA process model
with features from rational unified process (RUP) model and agile
methodology.
Abstract: This paper is concerning the issues of behaviour of
lightweight expanded clay aggregates concrete exposed to high
temperature. Lightweight aggregates from expanded clay are
produced by firing of row material up to temperature 1050°C.
Lightweight aggregates have suitable properties in terms of volume
stability, when exposed to temperatures up to 1050°C, which could
indicate their suitability for construction applications with higher risk
of fire. The test samples were exposed to heat by using the standard
temperature-time curve ISO 834. Negative changes in resulting
mechanical properties, such as compressive strength, tensile strength,
and flexural strength were evaluated. Also visual evaluation of the
specimen was performed. On specimen exposed to excessive heat, an
explosive spalling could be observed, due to evaporation of
considerable amount of unbounded water from the inner structure of
the concrete.
Abstract: Immunomodulators are substances that alter immune
system via dynamic regulation of messenger molecules. It can be
divided into immunostimulant and immunosuppressant. It can help to
increase immunity of people with a low immune system, and also can
help to normalize an overactive immune system. Aim of this study is
to investigate the effects of in vitro exposure to low and high doses of
several immunomodulators which include caffeine, kaloba and
quercetin on antigen-stimulated whole blood culture cytokine
production. Whole blood samples were taken from 5 healthy males
(age: 32 ± 12 years; weight: 75.7 ± 6.1 kg; BMI: 24.3 ± 1.5 kg/m2)
following an overnight fast with no vigorous activity during the
preceding 24 h. The whole blood was then stimulated with 50 μl of
100 x diluted Pediacel vaccine and low or high dose of
immunomodulators in the culture plate. After 20 h incubation (5%
CO2, 37°C), it was analysed using the Evidence Investigator to
determine the production of cytokines including IL-2, IL-4, IL-10,
IFN-γ, and IL-1α. Caffeine and quercetin showed a tendency towards
decrease cytokine production as the doses were increased. On the
other hand, an upward trend was evident with kaloba, where a high
dose of kaloba seemed to increase the cytokine production. In
conclusion, we found that caffeine and quercetin have potential as
immunosuppressant and kaloba as immunostimulant.
Abstract: The present study debates students’ perceptions of the
use of technology in learning English as a Foreign Language. Its aim
is to explore and understand students’ preparation and presentation of
Posters, PowerPoint and Animated Videos by drawing attention to
visual and oral elements. The data is collected through observations
and semi-structured interviews and analyzed through
phenomenological data analysis steps. The themes emerged from the
data, visual learning satisfaction in using information and
communication technology, providing structure to oral presentation,
learning from peers’ presentations, draw attention to using Posters,
PowerPoint and Animated Videos as each supports visual learning
and organization of thoughts in oral presentations.
Abstract: This paper involved the performance of a hightemperature
X-Ray powder diffraction analysis (XRD) of a sample of
chemical gypsum generated in the production of titanium white; this
gypsum originates by neutralizing highly acidic water with limestone
suspension. Specifically, it was gypsum formed in the first stage of
neutralization when the resulting material contains, apart from
gypsum, a number of waste products resulting from the
decomposition of ilmenite by sulphuric acid. So it can be described as
red titanogypsum. By conducting the experiment using XRD
apparatus Bruker D8 Advance with a Cu anode (λkα=1.54184 Å)
equipped with high-temperature chamber Anton Paar HTK 16, it was
possible to identify clearly in the sample each phase transition in the
system of CaSO4·xH2O.
Abstract: Segmentation is one of the essential tasks in image
processing. Thresholding is one of the simplest techniques for
performing image segmentation. Multilevel thresholding is a simple
and effective technique. The primary objective of bi-level or
multilevel thresholding for image segmentation is to determine a best
thresholding value. To achieve multilevel thresholding various
techniques has been proposed. A study of some nature inspired
metaheuristic algorithms for multilevel thresholding for image
segmentation is conducted. Here, we study about Particle swarm
optimization (PSO) algorithm, artificial bee colony optimization
(ABC), Ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm and Cuckoo
search (CS) algorithm.
Abstract: An inversion-free iterative algorithm is presented for
solving nonlinear matrix equation with a stepsize parameter t. The
existence of the maximal solution is discussed in detail, and the
method for finding it is proposed. Finally, two numerical examples
are reported that show the efficiency of the method.
Abstract: A wireless sensor network (WSN) is a collection of
sensor nodes organized into a cooperative network. These nodes
communicate through a wireless antenna. Reduction in physical size
and multiband operation is an important requirement of WSN
antenna. Fractal antenna is used for miniaturization and multiband
operation. The self-similar or self-affine and space filling property of
fractal geometry increases the effective electrical length of the
antenna, reduces the size and make them frequency independent. This
paper elaborates on Dual band fractal antenna with Coplanar
Waveguide (CPW) feed for WSN. The proposed antenna is designed
on a FR4 substrate with the dimension of 27mm x 28.5mm x 1.6mm,
resonates at 2.4GHz and 5.2GHz with a return loss less than -10dB.
The design and simulation process is carried out using IE3D
simulation software. The simulated and measured results are found in
good agreement.
Abstract: This research focuses on the optimization of glazed
surfaces and the assessment of possible solar gains in industrial
buildings. Existing window rating methods for single windows were
evaluated and a new method for a simple analysis of energy gains and
losses by single windows was introduced. Furthermore extensive
transient building simulations were carried out to appraise the
performance of low cost polycarbonate multi-cell sheets in
interaction with typical buildings for industrial applications. Mainly
energy saving potential was determined by optimizing the orientation
and area of such glazing systems in dependency on their thermal
qualities. Moreover the impact on critical aspects such as summer
overheating and daylight illumination was considered to ensure the
user comfort and avoid additional energy demand for lighting or
cooling. Hereby the simulated heating demand could be reduced by
up to 1/3 compared to traditional architecture of industrial halls using
mainly skylights.
Abstract: Novel bio-based polymer electrolyte was synthesized
with LiClO4 as the main source of charge carrier. Initially,
polyurethane-LiClO4 polymer electrolytes were synthesized via
prepolymerization method with different NCO/OH ratios and labelled
them as PU1, PU2, PU3 and PU4. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR)
analysis indicates the co-ordination between Li+ ion and polyurethane
in PU1. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicates
PU1 has the highest glass transition temperature (Tg) corresponds to
the most abundant urethane group which is the hard segment in PU1.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) shows the good miscibility
between lithium salt and the polymer. The study found that PU1
possessed the greatest ionic conductivity and the lowest activation
energy, Ea. All the polyurethanes exhibited linear Arrhenius
variations indicating ion transport via simple lithium ion hopping in
polyurethane. This research proves the NCO content in polyurethane
plays an important role in affecting the ionic conductivity of this
polymer electrolyte.
Abstract: The effect of trucks on the level of service is
determined by considering passenger car equivalents (PCE) of trucks.
The current version of Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) uses a
single PCE value for all tucks combined. However, the composition
of truck traffic varies from location to location; therefore, a single
PCE value for all trucks may not correctly represent the impact of
truck traffic at specific locations. Consequently, present study
developed separate PCE values for single-unit and combination
trucks to replace the single value provided in the HCM on different
freeways. Site specific PCE values, were developed using concept of
spatial lagging headways (that is the distance between rear bumpers
of two vehicles in a traffic stream) measured from field traffic data.
The study used data from four locations on a single urban freeway
and three different rural freeways in Indiana. Three-stage-leastsquares
(3SLS) regression techniques were used to generate models
that predicted lagging headways for passenger cars, single unit trucks
(SUT), and combination trucks (CT). The estimated PCE values for
single-unit and combination truck for basic urban freeways (level
terrain) were: 1.35 and 1.60, respectively. For rural freeways the
estimated PCE values for single-unit and combination truck were:
1.30 and 1.45, respectively. As expected, traffic variables such as
vehicle flow rates and speed have significant impacts on vehicle
headways. Study results revealed that the use of separate PCE values
for different truck classes can have significant influence on the LOS
estimation.
Abstract: Theoretical optimization of a copper-water negative
inclination heat pipe with internal composite wick structure had been
performed, regarding a new introduced parameter: the ratio between
the coarse mesh wraps and the fine mesh wraps of the composite
wick. Since in many cases, the design of a heat pipe matches specific
thermal requirements and physical limitations, this work
demonstrates the optimization of a 1m length, 8mm internal diameter
heat pipe without an adiabatic section, at a negative inclination angle
of -10º. The optimization is based on a new introduced parameter, LR:
the ratio between the coarse mesh wraps and the fine mesh wraps.
Abstract: In the present work, the effects of additives, including
contents of the added antioxidants and type of the selected metallic
stearates (either calcium stearate (CaSt) or zinc stearate (ZnSt)), on
the thermal stabilities of carbon black (CB)/high density polyethylene
(HDPE) compounds were studied. The results showed that the AO
contents played a key role in the thermal stabilities of the CB/HDPE
compounds — the higher the AO content, the higher the thermal
stabilities. Although the CaSt-containing compounds were slightly
superior to those with ZnSt in terms of the thermal stabilities, the
remaining solid residue of CaSt after heated to the temperature of 600
°C (mainly calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as characterized by the X-ray
diffraction (XRD) technique) seemed to catalyze the decomposition
of CB in the HDPE-based compounds. Hence, the quantification of
CB in the CaSt-containing compounds with a muffle furnace gave an
inaccurate CB content — much lower than actual value. However,
this phenomenon was negligible in the ZnSt-containing system.
Abstract: Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene
(vinyl acetate) (EVA) and PE-ionomer nanocomposite samples were
prepared by mixing of the polymer with organofilized
montmorillonite fillers Cloisite 93A and Dellite 67G. The amount of
each modified montmorillonite (MMT) was fixed to 5% (w/w). The
twin-screw kneader was used for the compounding of polymer matrix
and chosen nanofillers. The level of MMT exfoliation was studied by
the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations. The
mechanical properties of prepared materials were evaluated by
dynamical mechanical analysis at 30°C and by the measurement of
tensile properties (stress and strain at break).
Abstract: This study is an attempt to raise the awareness of the
stakeholders and the authorities on the sensitivity of Algerian
secondary school teachers of English as a Foreign Language about
the students’ loss of English language skills learned during formal
schooling with effort and at expense and the supposed measures to
arrest that loss. Data was collected from secondary school teachers of
EFL and analyzed quantitatively using a questionnaire containing
open-ended and close-ended questions. The results advocate a
consensus about the need for actions to be adopted to make
assessment techniques outcome-oriented. Most of the participants
were in favor of including curricular activities involving
contextualized learning, problem-solving learning critical selfawareness,
self and peer-assisted learning, use of computers and
internet so as to make learners autonomous.
Abstract: This paper presents a new method to design nonlinear
feedback linearization controller for PEMFCs (Polymer Electrolyte
Membrane Fuel Cells). A nonlinear controller is designed based on
nonlinear model to prolong the stack life of PEMFCs. Since it is
known that large deviations between hydrogen and oxygen partial
pressures can cause severe membrane damage in the fuel cell,
feedback linearization is applied to the PEMFC system so that the
deviation can be kept as small as possible during disturbances or load
variations. To obtain an accurate feedback linearization controller,
tuning the linear parameters are always important. So in proposed
study NSGA (Non-Dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm)-II method
was used to tune the designed controller in aim to decrease the
controller tracking error. The simulation result showed that the
proposed method tuned the controller efficiently.