Abstract: The need to have standards has always been a priority
of all the disciplines in the world. Today, standards such as XML and
USB are trying to create a universal interface for their respective
areas. The information regarding every family in the discipline
addressed, must have a lot in common, known as Metadata. A lot of
work has been done in specific domains such as IEEE LOM and
MPEG-7 but they do not appeal to the universality of creating
Metadata for all entities, where we take an entity (object) as, not
restricted to Software Terms. This paper tries to address this problem
of universal Metadata Definition which may lead to increase in
precision of search.
Abstract: Facial features are frequently used to represent local
properties of a human face image in computer vision applications. In
this paper, we present a fast algorithm that can extract the facial
features online such that they can give a satisfying representation of a
face image. It includes one step for a coarse detection of each facial
feature by AdaBoost and another one to increase the accuracy of the
found points by Active Shape Models (ASM) in the regions of interest.
The resulted facial features are evaluated by matching with artificial
face models in the applications of physiognomy. The distance measure
between the features and those in the fate models from the database is
carried out by means of the Hausdorff distance. In the experiment, the
proposed method shows the efficient performance in facial feature
extractions and online system of physiognomy.
Abstract: In this study, multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs)
were modified with nitric acid chemically and by dielectric barrier
discharge (DBD) plasma in an oxygen-based atmosphere. Used
carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were prepared by chemical vapour
deposition (CVD) floating catalyst method. For removing amorphous
carbon and metal catalyst, MWNTs were exposed to dry air and
washed with hydrochloric acid. Heating purified CNTs under helium
atmosphere caused elimination of acidic functional groups. Fourier
transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) shows formation of
oxygen containing groups such as C=O and COOH. Brunauer,
Emmett, Teller (BET) analysis revealed that functionalization causes
generation of defects on the sidewalls and opening of the ends of
CNTs. Results of temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) and gas
chromatography(GC) indicate that nitric acid treatment create more
acidic groups than plasma treatment.
Abstract: CIM is the standard formalism for modeling management
information developed by the Distributed Management Task
Force (DMTF) in the context of its WBEM proposal, designed to
provide a conceptual view of the managed environment. In this
paper, we propose the inclusion of formal knowledge representation
techniques, based on Description Logics (DLs) and the Web Ontology
Language (OWL), in CIM-based conceptual modeling, and then we
examine the benefits of such a decision. The proposal is specified as a
CIM metamodel level mapping to a highly expressive subset of DLs
capable of capturing all the semantics of the models. The paper shows
how the proposed mapping can be used for automatic reasoning
about the management information models, as a design aid, by means
of new-generation CASE tools, thanks to the use of state-of-the-art
automatic reasoning systems that support the proposed logic and use
algorithms that are sound and complete with respect to the semantics.
Such a CASE tool framework has been developed by the authors and
its architecture is also introduced. The proposed formalization is not
only useful at design time, but also at run time through the use of
rational autonomous agents, in response to a need recently recognized
by the DMTF.
Abstract: Square pipes (pipes with square cross sections) are
being used for various industrial objectives, such as machine
structure components and housing/building elements. The utilization
of them is extending rapidly and widely. Hence, the out-put of those
pipes is increasing and new application fields are continually
developing.
Due to various demands in recent time, the products have to
satisfy difficult specifications with high accuracy in dimensions. The
reshaping process design of pipes with square cross sections;
however, is performed by trial and error and based on expert-s
experience.
In this paper, a computer-aided simulation is developed based on
the 2-D elastic-plastic method with consideration of the shear
deformation to analyze the reshaping process. Effect of various
parameters such as diameter of the circular pipe and mechanical
properties of metal on product dimension and quality can be
evaluated by using this simulation. Moreover, design of reshaping
process include determination of shrinkage of cross section,
necessary number of stands, radius of rolls and height of pipe at each
stand, are investigated. Further, it is shown that there are good
agreements between the results of the design method and the
experimental results.
Abstract: Infrastructure investments are important in developing
countries, it will not only help to foster the economic growth of a
nation, but it will also act as a platform in which new forms of
partnership and collaboration can be developed mainly in East Asian
countries. Since the last two decades, many infrastructure projects
had been completed through build-operate-transfer (BOT) type of
procurement. The developments of BOT have attracted participation
of local and foreign private sector investor to secure funding and to
deliver projects on time, within the budget and to the required
specifications. Private sectors are preferred by the government in
East Asia to participate in BOT projects due to lack of public
funding. The finding has resulted that the private sector or promoter
of the BOT projects is exposed to multiple risks which have been
discussed in this paper. Effective risk management methods and
good managerial skills are required in ensuring the success of the
project. The review indicated that mitigation measures should be
employed by the promoter throughout the concession period and
support from the host government is also required in ensuring the
success of the BOT project.
Abstract: Protein and Esterase electrophoresis were used to
genetically identify two Saudi tick species. Engorged females of the
camel tick Hyalomma dromedarii (Koch) (Acari: Ixodidae) and the
cattle tick Boophilus annulatus (Say) (Acari: Ixodidae) ticks
collected from infested camels and cattle in the animals resting
house at Hail region in KSA were used. The results showed that
there are a variation in both of protein and esterase activity levels and
a high polymorphism within and between the genera and species of
Hyalomma and Boophilus . In conclusion, the protein and esterase
electrophoretic analysis used in the present study could successfully
distinguish among tick species, commonly found in Saudi Arabia.
Abstract: Oxyleotris marmorata is considered as
undomesticated fish, and its culture occasionally faces a problem of
food deprivation. The present study aims to evaluate alteration of
hematological indices, blood chemical associated with liver function
during 4 weeks of fasting. A non-linear relationships between fasting
days and hematological parameters (red blood cell number; y = -
0.002x2 + 0.041x + 1.249; R2=0.915, P0.05), mean corpuscular
volume; y = -0.180x2 + 2.183x + 149.61; R2=0.732, P>0.05, mean
corpuscular hemoglobin; y = -0.041x2 + 0.862x + 29.864; R2=0.818,
P>0.05 and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration; y = -
0.044x2 + 0.711x + 21.580; R2=0.730, P>0.05) were demonstrated.
Significant change in hematocrit (Ht) during fasting period was
observed. Ht elevated sharply increase at the first weeks of fasting
period. Higher Ht also was detected during week 2-4 of fasting time.
The significant reduction of hepatosomatic index was observed (y = -
0.007x2 - 0.096x + 1.414; R2=0.968, P0.05, serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase;
y = 0.005x2 – 0.201x2 + 1.297x + 33.256; R2=1, P0.05). Taken together, prolonged fasting has
deleterious effects on hematological indices, liver mass and enzyme
associated in liver function. The marked adverse effects occurred
after the first week of fasting state.
Abstract: Pabdeh shaly formation (Paleocene-Oligomiocene)
has been expanded in Fars, Khozestan and Lorestan. The lower
lithostratigraphic limit of this formation in Shiraz area is
distinguished from Gurpi formation by purple shale. Its upper limit is
gradational and conformable with Asmari formation. In order to
study sequence stratigraphy and microfacies of Pabdeh formation in
Shiraz area, one stratigraphic section have been chosen (Zanjiran
section). Petrographic studies resulted in the identification of 9
pelagic and calciturbidite microfacies. The calciturbidite microfacies
have been formed when the sea level was high, the rate of carbonate
deposition was high and it slumped into the deep marine. Sequence
stratigraphy studies show that Pabdeh formation in the studied zone
consists of two depositional sequences (DS) that the lower contact is
erosional (purple shale - type one, SBI or type two, SB2) and the
upper contact is correlative conformity (type two, SB2).
Abstract: Malate dehydrogenase-glutamate oxaloacetate
aminotransferase (MDh-GOAT) enzyme complex (the EC) was
isolated and purified from wheat and rise, their some main physicchemical
properties were studied. Michael-s constants of the EC
MDh-GOAT to malate, glutamate and NAD were investigated. This
kinetic results show a high relationship to glutamate. Taking into
account important role of the the EC in catabolism of glutamate – the
central amino acid of a nitric exchange, there is a sharp necessity of
deeper studying of this enzyme complex. Therefore the basic purpose
of the work is studying the basic physical and chemical properties of
this enzyme complex discovered by us, which would be very
important for understanding the mechanisms of reaction catalyzed by
the EC.
Abstract: According to the governmental data, the cases of oral
cancers doubled in the past 10 years. This had brought heavy burden to
the patients- family, the society, and the country. The literature
generally evidenced the betel nut contained particular chemicals that
can cause oral cancers. Research in Taiwan had also proofed that 90
percent of oral cancer patients had experience of betel nut chewing. It
is thus important to educate the betel-nut hobbyists to cease such a
hazardous behavior. A program was then organized to establish
several training classes across different areas specific to help ceasing
this particular habit. Purpose of this research was to explore the
attitude and intention toward ceasing betel-nut chewing before and
after attending the training classes. 50 samples were taken from a
ceasing class with average age at 45 years old with high school
education (54%). 74% of the respondents were male in service or
agricultural industries. Experiences in betel-nut chewing were 5-20
years with a dose of 1-20 pieces per day. The data had shown that 60%
of the respondents had cigarette smoking habit, and 30% of the
respondents were concurrently alcoholic dependent. Research results
indicated that the attitude, intentions, and the knowledge on oral
cancers were found significant different between before and after
attendance. This provided evidence for the effectiveness of the training
class. However, we do not perform follow-up after the class.
Noteworthy is the test result also shown that participants who were
drivers as occupation, or habitual smokers or alcoholic dependents
would be less willing to quit the betel-nut chewing. The test results
indicated as well that the educational levels and the type of occupation
may have significant impacts on an individual-s decisions in taking
betel-nut or substance abuse.
Abstract: Power transformer consists of components which are
under consistent thermal and electrical stresses. The major
component which degrades under these stresses is the paper
insulation of the power transformer. At site, lightning impulses and
cable faults may cause the winding deformation. In addition, the
winding may deform due to impact during transportation. A
deformed winding will excite more stress to its insulating paper thus
will degrade it. Insulation degradation will shorten the life-span of
the transformer. Currently there are two methods of detecting the
winding deformation which are Sweep Frequency Response
Analysis (SFRA) and Low Voltage Impulse Test (LVI). The latter
injects current pulses to the winding and capture the admittance
plot. In this paper, a transformer which experienced overheating and
arcing was identified, and both SFRA and LVI were performed.
Next, the transformer was brought to the factory for untanking. The
untanking results revealed that the LVI is more accurate than the
SFRA method for this case study.
Abstract: The avian phytohaemagglutinin skin test is being
proved as an in vivo system for the evaluation an avian in vivo T cell
mitogenicity. The test system was one week old Gallus domesticus
broiler Chickens. Five replicates were done for each of the whole,
1:10 dilutions of each of 0.05 IU tuberculin, tetanus immunoglobulin
and DPT vaccine as test materials. The evaluation parameters were
the skin indurations and lymphoblast percentages in bone marrow
lymphocytes.
Tuberculin indurations were 2.06 and 1.26mm for 0.05 IU
respectively while lymphoblast percent were 0.234 and 0.1
accordingly.
The skin indurations of 135mg/ml and 1.35mg/ml tetanus
immunoglobulin were 4.86 and 3.96mm while lymphoblast
percentages were 0.3 and 0.14 respectively.
The whole DPT and 1:10 concentration were with 4.5 and 3.2mm
while their lymphoblast percentages were 0.28 and 0.12 accordingly.
Thus the mitogenicity of the test materials was of dependant type.
Abstract: Recently, genetic algorithms (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) technique have attracted considerable attention among various modern heuristic optimization techniques. The GA has been popular in academia and the industry mainly because of its intuitiveness, ease of implementation, and the ability to effectively solve highly non-linear, mixed integer optimization problems that are typical of complex engineering systems. PSO technique is a relatively recent heuristic search method whose mechanics are inspired by the swarming or collaborative behavior of biological populations. In this paper both PSO and GA optimization are employed for finding stable reduced order models of single-input- single-output large-scale linear systems. Both the techniques guarantee stability of reduced order model if the original high order model is stable. PSO method is based on the minimization of the Integral Squared Error (ISE) between the transient responses of original higher order model and the reduced order model pertaining to a unit step input. Both the methods are illustrated through numerical example from literature and the results are compared with recently published conventional model reduction technique.
Abstract: One of the processes of slope that occurs every year in Iran and some parts of world and cause a lot of criminal and financial harms is called landslide. They are plenty of method to stability landslide in soil and rock slides. The use of the best method with the least cost and in the shortest time is important for researchers. In this research, determining the best method of stability is investigated by using of Decision Support systems. DSS is made for this purpose and was used (for Hasan Salaran area in Kurdistan). Field study data from topography, slope, geology, geometry of landslide and the related features was used. The related data entered decision making managements programs (DSS) (ALES).Analysis of mass stability indicated the instability potential at present. Research results show that surface and sub surface drainage the best method of stabilizing. Analysis of stability shows that acceptable increase in security coefficient is a consequence of drainage.
Abstract: The objective of this research is to develop the
performance indicators (PIs) in operational level for the Pre-hospital Emergency Medical Service (EMS) system employing in Thailand. This research started with ascertaining the current pre-hospital care
system. The team analyzed the strategies of Narerthorn, a government unit under the ministry of public health, and the existing PIs of the pre-hospital care. Afterwards, the current National Strategic Plan of EMS development (2008-2012) of the Emergency
Medical Institute of Thailand (EMIT) was considered using strategic
analysis to developed Strategy Map (SM) and identified the Success
Factors (SFs). The analysis results from strategy map and SFs were used to develop the Performance Indicators (PIs). To verify the set of
PIs, the team has interviewed with the relevant practitioners for the possibilities to implement the PIs. To this paper, it was to ascertain
that all the developed PIs support the objectives of the strategic plan. Nevertheless, the results showed that the operational level PIs suited
only with the first dimension of National Strategic Plan
(infrastructure and information technology development). Besides,
the SF was the infrastructure development (to contribute the EMS system to people throughout with standard and efficiency both in normally and disaster conditions). Finally, twenty-nine indicators
were developed from the analysis results of SM and SFs.
Abstract: The soil moisture content is an important property of
the soil. The results of mean weekly gravimetric soil moisture
content, measured for the three soil layers within the A horizon,
showed that it was higher for the top 5 cm over the whole period of
monitoring (15/7/2004 up to 10/11/05) with the variation becoming
greater during winter time. This reflects the pattern of rainfall in
Ireland which is spread over the whole year and shows that light
rainfall events during summer time were compensated by loss
through evapotranspiration, but only in the top 5 cm of soil. This
layer had the highest porosity and highest moisture holding capacity
due to the high content of organic matter. The gravimetric soil
moisture contents of the top 5 cm and the underlying 5-15 and 15-25
cm layers show that bottom site of the Hill Field had higher soil
moisture content than the middle and top sites during the whole
period of monitoring.
Abstract: Parallel programming models exist as an abstraction
of hardware and memory architectures. There are several parallel
programming models in commonly use; they are shared memory
model, thread model, message passing model, data parallel model,
hybrid model, Flynn-s models, embarrassingly parallel computations
model, pipelined computations model. These models are not specific
to a particular type of machine or memory architecture. This paper
expresses the model program for concurrent approach to data parallel
model through java programming.
Abstract: This paper presents a compact thermoelectric power generator system based on temperature difference across the element. The system can transfer the burning heat energy to electric energy directly. The proposed system has a thermoelectric generator and a power control box. In the generator, there are 4 thermoelectric modules (TEMs), each of which uses 2 thermoelectric chips (TEs) and 2 cold sinks, 1 thermal absorber, and 1 thermal conduction flat board. In the power control box, there are 1 storing energy device, 1 converter, and 1 inverter. The total net generating power is about 11W. This system uses commercial portable gas stoves or burns timber or the coal as the heat source, which is easily obtained. It adopts solid-state thermoelectric chips as heat inverter parts. The system has the advantages of being light-weight, quite, and mobile, requiring no maintenance, and havng easily-supplied heat source. The system can be used a as long as burning is allowed. This system works well for highly-mobilized outdoors situations by providing a power for illumination, entertainment equipment or the wireless equipment at refuge. Under heavy storms such as typhoon, when the solar panels become ineffective and the wind-powered machines malfunction, the thermoelectric power generator can continue providing the vital power.
Abstract: Histogram equalization is often used in image enhancement, but it can be also used in auto exposure. However, conventional histogram equalization does not work well when many pixels are concentrated in a narrow luminance range.This paper proposes an auto exposure method based on 2-way histogram equalization. Two cumulative distribution functions are used, where one is from dark to bright and the other is from bright to dark. In this paper, the proposed auto exposure method is also designed and implemented for image signal processors with full-HD images.