Abstract: In this paper, the design of a coaxial feed single layer rectangular microstrip patch antenna for three different wireless communication band applications is presented. The proposed antenna is designed by using substrate Roger RT/duroid 5880 having permittivity of about 2.2 and tangent loss of 0.0009. The characteristics of the substrate are designed and to evaluate the performance of modeled antenna using HFSS v.11 EM simulator, from Ansoft. The proposed antenna has small in size and operates at 2.25GHz, 3.76GHz and 5.23GHz suitable for mobile satellite service (MSS) network, WiMAX and WLAN applications. The dimension of the patch and slots are optimized to obtain these desired functional frequency ranges. The simulation results with frequency response, radiation pattern and return loss, VSWR, Input Impedance are presented with appropriate table and graph.
Abstract: Generally, distributed generation units refer to small-scale electric power generators that produce electricity at a site close to the customer or an electric distribution system (in parallel mode). From the customers’ point of view, a potentially lower cost, higher service reliability, high power quality, increased energy efficiency, and energy independence can be the key points of a proper DG unit. Moreover, the use of renewable types of distributed generations such as wind, photovoltaic, geothermal or hydroelectric power can also provide significant environmental benefits. Therefore, it is of crucial importance to study their impacts on the distribution networks. A marked increase in Distributed Generation (DG), associated with medium voltage distribution networks, may be expected. Nowadays, distribution networks are planned for unidirectional power flows that are peculiar to passive systems, and voltage control is carried out exclusively by varying the tap position of the HV/MV transformer. This paper will compare different DG control methods and possible network reconfiguration aimed at assessing their effect on voltage profiles.
Abstract: With the advances in information and communications technology, mobile context-aware applications have become powerful marketing tools. In Apple online store, there are numerous mobile applications (APPs) developed for destination tour. This study investigated the determinants of adoption of context-aware APPs for destination tour services. A model is proposed based on Technology Acceptance Model and privacy concern theory. The model was empirically tested based on a sample of 259 users of a tourism APP published by Kaohsiung Tourism Bureau, Taiwan. The results showed that the fitness of the model is well and, among all the factors, the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use have the most significant influences on the intention to adopt context-aware destination APPs. Finally, contrary to the findings of previous literature, the effect of privacy concern on the adoption intention of context-aware APP is insignificant.
Abstract: A novel new vanadium (IV) complexes incorporating the chelating diamido cyclopentadienyl {ArN(CH2)3NAr)}2-((ηn-Cp)Cp)} (Ar = 2,6-Pri2C6H3)(Cp = C5H5 and n = 1,2,3,4 and 5) have been studied with calculation of the properties of species involved in various of cyclopentadienyl reaction. These were carried out under investigation of density functional theory (DFT) calculation, and comparing together. Other methods, explicitly including electron correlation, are necessary for more accurate calculations; MB3LYP (Becke) (Lee–Yang–Parr) level of theory often being used to obtain more exact results. These complexes were estimated of electronic energy for molecular system, because it accounts for all electron correlation interactions.
The optimised of [V(ArN(CH2)3NAr)2Cl(η5-Cp)] (Ar = 2,6-Pri2C6H3 and Cp= C5H5) was found to be thermally more stable than others of vanadium cyclopentadienyl. In the meantime the complex [V(ArN(CH2)3NAr)2Cl(η1-Cp)] (Ar = 2,6-Pri2C6H3 and Cp= C5H5) which is showed a low thermal stability in case of the just one carbon of cyclopentadienyl can be insertion with vanadium metal centre. By using Dewar-Chatt-Duncanson model, as a basis of the molecular orbital (MO) analysis and showed the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest occupied molecular orbital LUMO.
Abstract: In order to respond the human needs, all regional, social, and economical factors are available to gain residents’ comfort and ideal architecture. There is no doubt the thermal comfort has to satisfy people not only for daily and physical activities but also creating pleasant area for mental activities and relaxing. It costs energy and increases greenhouse gas emissions.
Reducing energy use in buildings is a critical component of meeting carbon reduction commitments. Hence housing design represents a major opportunity to cut energy use and CO2 emissions.
In terms of energy efficiency, it is vital to propose and research modern design methods for buildings however vernacular architecture techniques are proven empirical existing practices which have to be considered. This research tries to compare two architectural solution were proposed by Persian vernacular architecture, to achieve energy efficiency in hot areas.
The aim of this research is to analyze two forms of traditional Persian architecture in different locations in order to develop a systematic research and sustainable technologies on adaptation to contemporary living standards.
Abstract: This paper presents the findings from a numerical simulation of the flow in 37-rod fuel assembly models spaced by a double-wire trapezoidal wrapping as applied to the BREST-OD-300 experimental nuclear reactor. Data on a high static pressure distribution within the models, and equations for determining the fuel bundle flow friction factors have been obtained. Recommendations are provided on using the closing turbulence models available in the ANSYS Fluent. A comparative analysis has been performed against the existing empirical equations for determining the flow friction factors. The calculated and experimental data fit has been shown.
An analysis into the experimental data and results of the numerical simulation of the BREST-OD-300 fuel rod assembly hydrodynamic performance are presented.
Abstract: DC-DC converters are widely used as reliable power source for many industrial and military applications, computers and electronic devices. Several control methods were developed for DC-DC converters control mostly with asymptotic convergence. Synergetic control (SC) is a proven robust control approach and will be used here in a so called terminal scheme to achieve finite time convergence. Lyapounov synthesis is adopted to assure controlled system stability. Furthermore particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm, based on an integral time absolute of error (ITAE) criterion will be used to optimize controller parameters. Simulation of terminal synergetic control of a DC-DC converter is carried out for different operating conditions and results are compared to classic synergetic control performance, that which demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the proposed control method.
Abstract: The case study presents the progression of a project management of Al-Shifa, a healthcare information system in Oman. The case study describes the evolution of the implementation of a healthcare information system tailored to meet the needs of the healthcare units under the supervision of the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Oman. A focus group methodology was used for collecting the relevant information from the main project's stakeholders. In addition reports about the project made available for the researchers. The case analysis is made based on the Project Management approach developed by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The main finding that there was no formal project management approach adopted by the MOH for the development and implementation of the herewith mentioned healthcare information system project. Furthermore, the project had suffered a scope creep in terms of features, cost and time-schedule. The recommendations of the authors, for the rescue of the project from its current dilemma, consist of technological, administrative and human resources development actions.
Abstract: Wireless communications have been expanded very fast in recent decades. This technology relies on an extensive network of base stations and antennas, using radio frequency signals to transmit information. Devices that use wireless communication, while offering various services, basically act as sources of non-ionizing electromagnetic fields (EMF). Such devices are permanently present in human vicinity and almost constantly radiate, causing EMF pollution of the environment. This fact has initiated development of modern systems for observation of the EMF pollution, as well as for risk assessment. This paper presents the Serbian electromagnetic field monitoring network – SEMONT, designed for automated, remote and continuous broadband monitoring of EMF in the environment. Measurement results of the SEMONT monitoring at one of the test locations, within the main campus of the University of Novi Sad, are presented and discussed, along with corresponding exposure assessment of the general population, regarding the Serbian legislation.
Abstract: Cloud virtualization technologies are becoming more
and more prevalent, cloud users usually encounter the problem of how
to access to the virtualized remote desktops easily over the web
without requiring the installation of special clients. To resolve this
issue, we took advantage of the HTML5 technology and developed
web-based remote desktop. It permits users to access the terminal
which running in our cloud platform from anywhere. We implemented
a sketch of web interface following the cloud computing concept that
seeks to enable collaboration and communication among users for
high performance computing. Given the development of remote
desktop virtualization, it allows to shift the user’s desktop from the
traditional PC environment to the cloud platform, which is stored on a
remote virtual machine rather than locally. This proposed effort has
the potential to positively provide an efficient, resilience and elastic
environment for online cloud service. This is also made possible by the
low administrative costs as well as relatively inexpensive end-user
terminals and reduced energy expenses.
Abstract: The extracellular proteins secreted by bacteria may be increased in stressful surroundings, such as in the presence of antibiotics. It appears that many antibiotics, when used at low concentrations, have in common the ability to activate or repress gene transcription, which is distinct from their inhibitory effect. There have been comparatively few studies on the potential of antibiotics as a specific chemical signal that can trigger a variety of biological functions. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the effect of Streptomycin Sulfate in regulating extracellular proteins secreted by Bacillus subtilis ATCC21332. Results of Microdilution assay showed that the Minimum Inhibition Concentration (MIC) of Streptomycin Sulfate on B. subtilis ATCC21332 was 2.5 mg/ml. The bacteria cells were then exposed to Streptomycin Sulfate at concentration of 0.01 MIC before being further incubated for 48h to 72 h. The extracellular proteins secreted were then isolated and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Proteins profile revealed that three additional bands with approximate sizes of 30 kDa, 22 kDa and 23 kDa were appeared for the treated bacteria with Streptomycin Sulfate. Thus, B. subtilis ATCC21332 in stressful condition with the presence of Streptomycin Sulfate at low concentration could induce the extracellular proteins secretion.
Abstract: The present study is an analysis of the forced convection heat transfer in porous channel with an oriented jet at the inlet with uniform velocity and temperature distributions. The upper wall is insulated when the bottom one is kept at constant temperature higher than that of the fluid at the entrance. The dynamic field is analysed by the Brinkman-Forchheimer extended Darcy model and the thermal field is traduced by the energy one equation model. The numerical solution of the governing equations is obtained by using the finite volume method. The results mainly concern the effect of Reynolds number, jet angle and thermal conductivity ratio on the flow structure and local and average Nusselt numbers evolutions.
Abstract: A meta-analysis may be performed using aggregate data (AD) or an individual patient data (IPD). In practice, studies may be available at both IPD and AD level. In this situation, both the IPD and AD should be utilised in order to maximize the available information. Statistical advantages of combining the studies from different level have not been fully explored. This study aims to quantify the statistical benefits of including available IPD when conducting a conventional summary-level meta-analysis. Simulated meta-analysis were used to assess the influence of the levels of data on overall meta-analysis estimates based on IPD-only, AD-only and the combination of IPD and AD (mixed data, MD), under different study scenario. The percentage relative bias (PRB), root mean-square-error (RMSE) and coverage probability were used to assess the efficiency of the overall estimates. The results demonstrate that available IPD should always be included in a conventional meta-analysis using summary level data as they would significantly increased the accuracy of the estimates.On the other hand, if more than 80% of the available data are at IPD level, including the AD does not provide significant differences in terms of accuracy of the estimates. Additionally, combining the IPD and AD has moderating effects on the biasness of the estimates of the treatment effects as the IPD tends to overestimate the treatment effects, while the AD has the tendency to produce underestimated effect estimates. These results may provide some guide in deciding if significant benefit is gained by pooling the two levels of data when conducting meta-analysis.
Abstract: Blood gamma irradiation is the only available method
to prevent transfusion associated graft versus host disease (TAGVHD).
However, when blood is irradiated, determine blood shelf
time is crucial. Non irradiated blood have a self-time from 21 to 35
days when is preserved with anticoagulated solution and stored at
4°C. During their storage, red blood cells (RBC) undergo a series of
biochemical, biomechanical and molecular changes involving what is
known as storage lesion (SL). SL include loss of structural integrity
of RBC, decrease of 2,3-diphosphatidylglyceric acid levels, and
increase of both ion potassium concentration and hemoglobin (Hb).
On the other hand, Atomic force Microscopy (AFM) represents a
versatile tool for a nano-scale high resolution topographic analysis in
biological systems. In order to evaluate SL in irradiated and nonirradiated
blood, RBC topography and morphometric parameters
were obtained from an AFM XE-BIO system. Cell viability was
followed using flow cytometry. Our results showed that early
markers as nanoscale roughness, allow us to evaluate blood quality
since other perspective.
Abstract: Polymer composite nano-fibers including (1, 3 wt %)
silver nano-particles have been produced by electrospinning method.
Polyacrylonitrile/N,N-dimethylformamide (PAN/DMF) solution have
been prepared and the amount of silver nitrate have been adjusted to
PAN weight. Silver nano-particles were obtained from reduction of
silver ions into silver nano-particles by chemical reduction by
hydrazine hydroxide (N2H5OH). The different amount of silver salt
was loaded into polymer matrix to obtain polyacrylonitrile composite
nano-fiber containing silver nano-particles. The effect of the amount
of silver nano-particles on the properties of composite nano-fiber web
was investigated. Electrical conductivity, mechanical properties,
thermal properties were examined by Microtest LCR Meter 6370
(0.01 mΩ-100 MΩ), Tensile tester, Differential scanning calorimeter
DSC (Q10) and SEM respectively. Also antimicrobial efficiency test
(ASTM E2149-10) was done against to Staphylococcus aureus
bacteria. It has been seen that breaking strength, conductivity,
antimicrobial effect, enthalpy during cyclization increase by use of
silver nano-particles while the diameter of nano-fiber decreases.
Abstract: Banana pseudo-stem and fruit-bunch-stem are
agricultural residues that can be used for conversion to bio-char, biooil,
and gases by using thermochemical process. The aim of this work
is to characterize banana pseudo-stem and banana fruit-bunch-stem
through proximate analysis, elemental analysis, chemical analysis,
thermo-gravimetric analysis, and heating calorific value. The ash
contents of the banana pseudo-stem and banana fruit-bunch-stem are
11.0 mf wt.% and 20.6 mf wt.%; while the carbon content of banana
pseudo-stem and fruit-bunch-stem are 37.9 mf wt.% and 35.58 mf
wt.% respectively. The molecular formulas for banana stem and
banana fruit-bunch-stem are C24H33NO26 and C19H29NO33
respectively. The measured higher heating values of banana pseudostem
and banana fruit-bunch-stem are 15.5MJ/kg and 12.7 MJ/kg
respectively. By chemical analysis, the lignin, cellulose, and
hemicellulose contents in the samples will also be presented. The
feasibility of the banana wastes to be a feedstock for thermochemical
process in comparison with other biomass will be discussed in this
paper.
Abstract: Termites have been observed as major pre-colonisation and post-colonisation pest insect of honeybees’ wooden hives in Nigeria. However, pest situation studies in modern beekeeping have been largely directed towards those pests that affect honeybees rather than the biological structure (wood) which houses the honeybees and the influence of seasons on the pests’ activities against the hives. This study, therefore, investigated the influence of seasons on the intensity of hives attacks by termites for 2 years in University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State using visual inspection. The Experimental Apiary was established with 15 Kenyan’s top bar hives made of Triplochiton scleroxylon wood that were strategically placed and observed within the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management arboretum. The colonies hives consistently showed comparatively lower termite’s infestation levels in the dry season and, consequently, also lower attacks on the colonized hives. The result indicated raining season as a distinct period for more destructive activities of termites on the hives and strongly associated with dryness of the hives. Since previous study and observations have linked colonization with dry season coupled with minimal attacked on colonized hives; the non-colonised hives should be removed from the field at the onset of raining season and returned two weeks prior to dry season to reduce hives degradation by pests.
Abstract: There have been a lot of efforts and researches undertaken in developing efficient tools for performing several tasks in data mining. Due to the massive amount of information embedded in huge data warehouses maintained in several domains, the extraction of meaningful pattern is no longer feasible. This issue turns to be more obligatory for developing several tools in data mining. Furthermore the major aspire of data mining software is to build a resourceful predictive or descriptive model for handling large amount of information more efficiently and user friendly. Data mining mainly contracts with excessive collection of data that inflicts huge rigorous computational constraints. These out coming challenges lead to the emergence of powerful data mining technologies. In this survey a diverse collection of data mining tools are exemplified and also contrasted with the salient features and performance behavior of each tool.
Abstract: In recent years, many researchers are involved in the
field of fuzzy theory. However, there are still a lot of issues to be
resolved. Especially on topics related to controller design such as the
field of robot, artificial intelligence, and nonlinear systems etc.
Besides fuzzy theory, algorithms in swarm intelligence are also a
popular field for the researchers. In this paper, a concept of utilizing
one of the swarm intelligence method, which is called Bacterial-GA
Foraging, to find the stabilized common P matrix for the fuzzy
controller system is proposed. An example is given in in the paper, as
well.
Abstract: Two new metal-based anticancer chemotherapeutic
agents, [(Ph2Sn)2(HGuO)2(phen)Cl2] 1 and [(Ph3Sn)(HGuO)(phen)]-
Cl.CH3OH.H2O 2, were designed, prepared and characterized by
analytical and spectral (IR, ESI-Mass, 1H, 13C and 119Sn NMR)
techniques. The proposed geometry of Sn(IV) in 1 and 2 is distorted
octahedral and distorted trigonal-bipyramidal, respectively. Both 1
and 2 exhibit potential cytotoxicity in vitro against MCF-7, HepG-2
and DU-145 cell lines. The intrinsic binding constant (Kb) values of 1
(2.33 × 105 M-1) and 2 (2.46 × 105 M-1) evaluated from UV-Visible
absorption studies suggest non-classical electrostatic mode of
interaction via phosphate backbone of DNA double helix. The Stern-
Volmer quenching constant (Ksv) of 1 (9.74 × 105 M-1) and 2 (2.9 ×
106 M-1) determined by fluorescence studies suggests the groove
binding and intercalation mode for 1 and 2, respectively. Effective
cleavage of pBR322 DNA is induced by 1.Their interaction with
DNA of cancer cells may account for potency.