Abstract: The paper describes the carbonate microfacies identified in the Sinjar Formation (Late Paleocene–Early Eocene) cropping out in Qara Dagh Mountain, near Sulekan Village approximately 20km south–west of Sulaimani (Iraq). One section (62m thick) has been measured in the field and closely sampled to undertake detailed microfaciesal and micropalaeontological studies to determine the formation-s age and environment of deposition. A samples were collected illustrating all the lithological changes along the section. The limestone in the studied area is hard and extremely rich in large foraminifers (soritids, rotaliids, nummulites, miliolids) and green algae (dasycladales). The investigation of the thin sections allowed us to identify the carbonate microfacies (18 types and subtypes) and the micropaleontological association (foraminifers and green algae), to determine the age of formation and to reconstruct the paleoenvironment of deposition (fore-reef, reef, back-reef). Based on the field observations and the studied thin sections, we determined three Units of a carbonate platform (I, II and III) from the base to the top of the section: Unit I with coralgal associations, Unit II is dominated by larger foraminifers and haracterized by the absence of coralgal associations, while Unit III is dominated by small foraminifers (mostly miliolids), peloids and green algae. It is partially dolomitized.
Abstract: Sustainable development is a concept which was
originated in Burtland commission in 1978. Although this concept
was born with environmental aspects, it is penetrated in all areas
rapidly, turning into a dominate view of planning. Concentrating on
future generation issue, especially when talking about heritage has a
long story. Each approach with all of its characteristics illustrates
differences in planning, hence planning always reflects the dominate
idea of its age. This paper studies sustainable development in
planning for historical cities with the aim of finding ways to deal
with heritage in planning for historical cities in Iran. Through this, it
will be illustrated how challenges between sustainable concept and
heritage could be concluded in planning.
Consequently, the paper will emphasize on:
Sustainable development in city planning
Trends regarding heritage
Challenges due to planning for historical cities in Iran
For the first two issues, documentary method regarding the
sustainable development and heritage literature is considered. As the
next step focusing on Iranian historical cities require considering the
urban planning and management structure and identifying the main
challenges related to heritage, so analyzing challenges regarding
heritage is considered. As the result it would be illustrated that key
issue in such planning is active conservation to improve and use the
potential of heritage while it's continues conservation is guaranteed.
By emphasizing on the planning system in Iran it will be obvious that
some reforms are needed in this system and its way of relating with
heritage. The main weakness in planning for historical cities in Iran
is the lack of independent city management. Without this factor
achieving active conservation as the main factor of sustainable
development would not be possible.
Abstract: The paper contains an investigation of zeros Of Bargmann analytic representation. A brief introduction to Harmonic oscillator formalism is given. The Bargmann analytic representation has been studied. The zeros of Bargmann analytic function are considered. The Q or Husimi functions are introduced. The The Bargmann functions and the Husimi functions have the same zeros. The Bargmann functions f(z) have exactly q zeros. The evolution time of the zeros μn are discussed. Various examples have been given.
Abstract: Traditional development of wireless sensor network
mote is generally based on SoC1 platform. Such method of
development faces three main drawbacks: lack of flexibility in terms
of development due to low resource and rigid architecture of SoC;
low capability of evolution and portability versus performance if
specific micro-controller architecture features are used; and the rapid
obsolescence of micro-controller comparing to the long lifetime of
power plants or any industrial installations. To overcome these
drawbacks, we have explored a new approach of development of
wireless sensor network mote using a hybrid FPGA technology. The
application of such approach is illustrated through the
implementation of an innovative wireless sensor network protocol
called OCARI.
Abstract: Autofluorescence (AF) bronchoscopy is an
established method to detect dysplasia and carcinoma in situ (CIS).
For this reason the “Sotiria" Hospital uses the Karl Storz D-light
system. However, in early tumor stages the visualization is not that
obvious. With the help of a PC, we analyzed the color images we
captured by developing certain tools in Matlab®. We used statistical
methods based on texture analysis, signal processing methods based
on Gabor models and conversion algorithms between devicedependent
color spaces. Our belief is that we reduced the error made
by the naked eye. The tools we implemented improve the quality of
patients' life.
Abstract: Urban water management in Australia faces increasing pressure to deal with the challenges of droughts, growing population and the climate change uncertainty. Addressing these challenges is an opportunity to incorporate the parallel goals of sustainable water management and climate change adaptation through holistic, non-technical means. This paper presents case studies from Perth and Sydney which show how despite robust adaptation plans and experience, recent efforts to 'drought proof' cities have focused on supply-side measures (i.e. desalination), rather than rethinking how water is used and managing demand. The trend towards desalination as a climate adaptation measure raises questions about the sustainability of urban water futures in Australia.
Abstract: A self-compacting concrete (SCC) is the one that can
be placed in the form and can go through obstructions by its own
weight and without the need of vibration. Since its first development
in Japan in 1988, SCC has gained wider acceptance in Japan, Europe
and USA due to its inherent distinct advantages. Although there are
visible signs of its gradual acceptance in the North Africa through its
limited use in construction, Libya has yet to explore the feasibility
and applicability of SCC in new construction. The contributing
factors to this reluctance appear to be lack of any supportive
evidence of its suitability with local aggregates and the harsh
environmental conditions. The primary aim of this study is to explore
the feasibility of using SCC made with local aggregates of Eastern
Province of Libya by examining its basic properties characteristics.
This research consists of: (i) Development of a suitable mix for SCC
such as the effect of water to cement ratio, limestone and silica fume
that would satisfy the requirements of the plastic state; (ii) Casting of
concrete samples and testing them for compressive strength and unit
weight. Local aggregates, cement, admixtures and industrial waste
materials were used in this research.
The significance of this research lies in its attempt to provide
some performance data of SCC made in the Eastern Province of
Libya so as to draw attention to the possible use of SCC.
Abstract: A therapeutic success is the aim of any therapeutic
intervention, but a therapeutic failure is the other side of the same
coin. The purpose of this study is to present the activity of a personal
development group, composed of 14 participants (psychologists,
doctors and a priest) registered for a 2 days course of integrative
psychotherapy. The objectives of this study are centred on: the
management of the personal development group breaking moment
realized by the therapist/trainer; the analysis of the trainer’s personal
situation and of some group participants and the brief presentation of
the main work methods applied on participants in the repairing of the
therapeutic relation and in the counter transfer management. The
therapist’s orientation is an integrative one and the demarche realized
includes T.A. techniques, role play, Gestalt and family systemic
psychotherapy. The conclusions obtained represent landmarks for the
future activity within that group and strengthen the therapeutic
relation with the group.
Abstract: Existing proceeding-models for the development of mechatronic systems provide a largely parallel action in the detailed development. This parallel approach is to take place also largely independent of one another in the various disciplines involved. An approach for a new proceeding-model provides a further development of existing models to use for the development of Adaptronic Systems. This approach is based on an intermediate integration and an abstract modeling of the adaptronic system. Based on this system-model a simulation of the global system behavior, due to external and internal factors or Forces is developed. For the intermediate integration a special data management system is used. According to the presented approach this data management system has a number of functions that are not part of the "normal" PDM functionality. Therefore a concept for a new data management system for the development of Adaptive system is presented in this paper. This concept divides the functions into six layers. In the first layer a system model is created, which divides the adaptronic system based on its components and the various technical disciplines. Moreover, the parameters and properties of the system are modeled and linked together with the requirements and the system model. The modeled parameters and properties result in a network which is analyzed in the second layer. From this analysis necessary adjustments to individual components for specific manipulation of the system behavior can be determined. The third layer contains an automatic abstract simulation of the system behavior. This simulation is a precursor for network analysis and serves as a filter. By the network analysis and simulation changes to system components are examined and necessary adjustments to other components are calculated. The other layers of the concept treat the automatic calculation of system reliability, the "normal" PDM-functionality and the integration of discipline-specific data into the system model. A prototypical implementation of an appropriate data management with the addition of an automatic system development is being implemented using the data management system ENOVIA SmarTeam V5 and the simulation system MATLAB.
Abstract: A horizontal anaerobic digester was developed and
tested in pilot scale for Korean food waste with high water contents
(>80%). The hydrogen sulfide in the biogas was removed by a
biological desulfurization equipment integrated in the horizontal
digester. A mixer of the horizontal digester was designed to easily
remove the sediment in the bottom and scum layers on surface in the
digester. Experimental result for 120 days of operation of the pilot
plant showed a high removal efficiency of 81.2% for organic
substance and high stability during the whole operation period were
acquired. Also food waste was treated at high organic loading rates
over 4 kg•VS/m3∙day and a methane gas production rate of 0.62
m3/kg•VSremoved was accomplished.
The biological desulfurization equipment inside the horizontal
digester was proven to be an economic and effective method to reduce
the biogas desulfurization cost by removing hydrogen sulfide more
than 90% without external desulfurization equipments.
Abstract: Multimedia security is an incredibly significant area
of concern. A number of papers on robust digital watermarking have
been presented, but there are no standards that have been defined so
far. Thus multimedia security is still a posing problem. The aim of
this paper is to design a robust image-watermarking scheme, which
can withstand a different set of attacks. The proposed scheme
provides a robust solution integrating image moment normalization,
content dependent watermark and discrete wavelet transformation.
Moment normalization is useful to recover the watermark even in
case of geometrical attacks. Content dependent watermarks are a
powerful means of authentication as the data is watermarked with its
own features. Discrete wavelet transforms have been used as they
describe image features in a better manner. The proposed scheme
finds its place in validating identification cards and financial
instruments.
Abstract: In this paper, design, fabrication and coupled
multifield analysis of hollow out-of-plane silicon microneedle array
with piezoelectrically actuated microfluidic device for transdermal
drug delivery (TDD) applications is presented. The fabrication
process of silicon microneedle array is first done by series of
combined isotropic and anisotropic etching processes using
inductively coupled plasma (ICP) etching technology. Then coupled
multifield analysis of MEMS based piezoelectrically actuated device
with integrated 2×2 silicon microneedle array is presented. To predict
the stress distribution and model fluid flow in coupled field analysis,
finite element (FE) and computational fluid dynamic (CFD) analysis
using ANSYS rather than analytical systems has been performed.
Static analysis and transient CFD analysis were performed to predict
the fluid flow through the microneedle array. The inlet pressure from
10 kPa to 150 kPa was considered for static CFD analysis. In the
lumen region fluid flow rate 3.2946 μL/min is obtained at 150 V for
2×2 microneedle array. In the present study the authors have
performed simulation of structural, piezoelectric and CFD analysis
on three dimensional model of the piezoelectrically actuated
mcirofluidic device integrated with 2×2 microneedle array.
Abstract: In this paper a study on the vibration of thin
cylindrical shells with ring supports and made of functionally graded
materials (FGMs) composed of stainless steel and nickel is presented.
Material properties vary along the thickness direction of the shell
according to volume fraction power law. The cylindrical shells have
ring supports which are arbitrarily placed along the shell and impose
zero lateral deflections. The study is carried out based on third order
shear deformation shell theory (T.S.D.T). The analysis is carried out
using Hamilton-s principle. The governing equations of motion of
FGM cylindrical shells are derived based on shear deformation
theory. Results are presented on the frequency characteristics,
influence of ring support position and the influence of boundary
conditions. The present analysis is validated by comparing results
with those available in the literature.
Abstract: Grazing and pastoral overloading through human factors result in significant land desertification. Failure to take into account the phenomenon of desertification as a serious problem can lead to an environmental disaster because of the damages caused by land encroachment. Therefore, soil on residential and urban areas is affected because of the deterioration of vegetation. Overgrazing or grazing in open and irregular lands is practiced in these areas almost throughout the year, especially during the growth cycle of edible plants, thereby leading to their disappearance. In addition, the large number of livestock in these areas exceeds the capacity of these pastures because of pastoral land overloading, which results in deterioration and desertification in the region. In addition, rare plants, the extinction of some edible plants in the region, and the emergence of plants unsuitable for grazing, must be taken into consideration, as along with the emergence of dust and sand storms during the dry seasons (summer to autumn) due to the degradation of vegetation. These results show that strategic plans and regulations that protect the environment from desertification must be developed. Therefore, increased pastoral load is a key human factor in the deterioration of vegetation cover, leading to land desertification in this region.
Abstract: Frequent machine breakdowns, low plant availability and increased overtime are a great threat to a manufacturing plant as they increase operating costs of an industry. The main aim of this study was to improve Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) at a manufacturing company through the implementation of innovative maintenance strategies. A case study approach was used. The paper focuses on improving the maintenance in a manufacturing set up using an innovative maintenance regime mix to improve overall equipment effectiveness. Interviews, reviewing documentation and historical records, direct and participatory observation were used as data collection methods during the research. Usually production is based on the total kilowatt of motors produced per day. The target kilowatt at 91% availability is 75 Kilowatts a day. Reduced demand and lack of raw materials particularly imported items are adversely affecting the manufacturing operations. The company had to reset its targets from the usual figure of 250 Kilowatt per day to mere 75 per day due to lower availability of machines as result of breakdowns as well as lack of raw materials. The price reductions and uncertainties as well as general machine breakdowns further lowered production. Some recommendations were given. For instance, employee empowerment in the company will enhance responsibility and authority to improve and totally eliminate the six big losses. If the maintenance department is to realise its proper function in a progressive, innovative industrial society, then its personnel must be continuously trained to meet current needs as well as future requirements. To make the maintenance planning system effective, it is essential to keep track of all the corrective maintenance jobs and preventive maintenance inspections. For large processing plants these cannot be handled manually. It was therefore recommended that the company implement (Computerised Maintenance Management System) CMMS.
Abstract: In the present study, a numerical analysis is carried
out to investigate unsteady MHD (magneto-hydrodynamic) flow and
heat transfer of a non-Newtonian second grade viscoelastic fluid
over an oscillatory stretching sheet. The flow is induced due to an
infinite elastic sheet which is stretched oscillatory (back and forth) in
its own plane. Effect of viscous dissipation and joule heating are
taken into account. The non-linear differential equations governing
the problem are transformed into system of non-dimensional
differential equations using similarity transformations. A newly
developed meshfree numerical technique Element free Galerkin
method (EFGM) is employed to solve the coupled non linear
differential equations. The results illustrating the effect of various
parameters like viscoelastic parameter, Hartman number, relative
frequency amplitude of the oscillatory sheet to the stretching rate and
Eckert number on velocity and temperature field are reported in
terms of graphs and tables. The present model finds its application in
polymer extrusion, drawing of plastic films and wires, glass, fiber
and paper production etc.
Abstract: Steroidal hormones with the efficient changes on the epiphyseal growth plate may influence tissue structure properties. Presents paper to investigate the effects of gonadectomy in the pattern distribution of the epiphyseal structure. Fifteen adult female New Zealand white rabbits were separated into three groups. One group was intact and others groups were selected for surgical operation. From these two groups, one group carried out steroidal administration. The results obtained showed that there is no statistically difference in the mean diameter of the growth plate cells between all three groups. The maximum value of the cartilage cells were allocated to the gonadectomized group and the minimum number were observed in Hormonal induced group significantly. Growth plate height was significantly greater in gonadectomized group than in two other groups.
Abstract: Today due to rising levels of housing- necessities,
several problems have been raised regarding to urban quality of life.
The aim of the research is to study social and spatial aspects of
housing environment and to find out their interaction with the urban
quality of life. As a case of study two pilot areas of Famagusta city in
North Cyprus, were selected: Baykal, considered as an established
urban district and Tuzla, a newly developed peri-urban district. In
order to determine urban quality of life in planning and developing of
housing areas, social and spatial aspects of selected areas have been
examined, differences between them according to the planning policy
have been pointed out, advantages and disadvantages of housing
planning have been found. As a practical implementation of the
research a number of households in each selected area have been
interviewed in order to draw a conclusion.
Abstract: As the resources for naturally occurring aggregates
diminished at an ever increasing rate, researchers are keen to utilize
recycled materials in road construction in harmony with sustainable
development. Steel slag, a waste product from the steel making
industry, is one of the recycled materials reported to exhibit great
potential to replace naturally occurring aggregates in asphalt
mixtures. This paper presents the resilient modulus properties of
steel slag asphalt mixtures subjected to short term oven ageing
(STOA). The resilient modulus test was carried out to evaluate the
stiffness of asphalt mixtures at 10ºC, 25ºC and 40ºC. Previous
studies showed that stiffness changes in asphalt mixture played an
important role in inflicting pavement distress particularly cracking
and rutting that are common at low and high temperatures
respectively. Temperature was found to significantly influence the
resilient modulus of asphalt mixes. The resilient modulus of the
asphalt specimens tested decreased by more than 90% when the test
temperature increased from 10°C to 40°C.
Abstract: Eigenvector methods are gaining increasing acceptance in the area of spectrum estimation. This paper presents a successful attempt at testing and evaluating the performance of two of the most popular types of subspace techniques in determining the parameters of multiexponential signals with real decay constants buried in noise. In particular, MUSIC (Multiple Signal Classification) and minimum-norm techniques are examined. It is shown that these methods perform almost equally well on multiexponential signals with MUSIC displaying better defined peaks.