Abstract: Fine alignment of main ship power plants mechanisms
and shaft lines provides long-term and failure-free performance of
propulsion system while fast and high-quality installation of
mechanisms and shaft lines decreases common labor intensity. For
checking shaft line allowed stress and setting its alignment it is
required to perform calculations considering various stages of life
cycle. In 2012 JSC SSTC developed special software complex
“Shaftline” for calculation of alignment of having its own I/O
interface and display of shaft line 3D model. Alignment of shaft line
as per bearing loads is rather labor-intensive procedure. In order to
decrease its duration, JSC SSTC developed automated alignment
system from ship power plants mechanisms. System operation
principle is based on automatic simulation of design load on bearings.
Initial data for shaft line alignment can be exported to automated
alignment system from PC “Shaft line”.
Abstract: Program slicing is the task of finding all statements in
a program that directly or indirectly influence the value of a variable
occurrence. The set of statements that can affect the value of a
variable at some point in a program is called a program backward
slice. In several software engineering applications, such as program
debugging and measuring program cohesion and parallelism, several
slices are computed at different program points. The existing
algorithms for computing program slices are introduced to compute a
slice at a program point. In these algorithms, the program, or the
model that represents the program, is traversed completely or
partially once. To compute more than one slice, the same algorithm
is applied for every point of interest in the program. Thus, the same
program, or program representation, is traversed several times.
In this paper, an algorithm is introduced to compute all forward
static slices of a computer program by traversing the program
representation graph once. Therefore, the introduced algorithm is
useful for software engineering applications that require computing
program slices at different points of a program. The program
representation graph used in this paper is called Program Dependence
Graph (PDG).
Abstract: This paper considers the robust exponential stability issues for a class of uncertain switched neutral system which delays switched according to the switching rule. The system under consideration includes both stable and unstable subsystems. The uncertainties considered in this paper are norm bounded, and possibly time varying. Based on multiple Lyapunov functional approach and dwell-time technique, the time-dependent switching rule is designed depend on the so-called average dwell time of stable subsystems as well as the ratio of the total activation time of stable subsystems and unstable subsystems. It is shown that by suitably controlling the switching between the stable and unstable modes, the robust stabilization of the switched uncertain neutral systems can be achieved. Two simulation examples are given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Abstract: one of the significant factors for improving the
accuracy of Land Surface Temperature (LST) retrieval is the correct
understanding of the directional anisotropy for thermal radiance. In
this paper, the multiple scattering effect between heterogeneous
non-isothermal surfaces is described rigorously according to the
concept of configuration factor, based on which a directional thermal
radiance model is built, and the directional radiant character for urban
canopy is analyzed. The model is applied to a simple urban canopy
with row structure to simulate the change of Directional Brightness
Temperature (DBT). The results show that the DBT is aggrandized
because of the multiple scattering effects, whereas the change range of
DBT is smoothed. The temperature difference, spatial distribution,
emissivity of the components can all lead to the change of DBT. The
“hot spot" phenomenon occurs when the proportion of high
temperature component in the vision field came to a head. On the other
hand, the “cool spot" phenomena occur when low temperature
proportion came to the head. The “spot" effect disappears only when
the proportion of every component keeps invariability. The model
built in this paper can be used for the study of directional effect on
emissivity, the LST retrieval over urban areas and the adjacency effect
of thermal remote sensing pixels.
Abstract: Problem-based learning (PBL) is one of the student
centered approaches and has been considered by a number of higher
educational institutions in many parts of the world as a method of
delivery. This paper presents a creative thinking approach for
implementing Problem-based Learning in Mechanics of Structure
within a Malaysian Polytechnics environment. In the learning
process, students learn how to analyze the problem given among the
students and sharing classroom knowledge into practice. Further,
through this course-s emphasis on problem-based learning, students
acquire creative thinking skills and professional skills as they tackle
complex, interdisciplinary and real-situation problems. Once the
creative ideas are generated, there are useful additional techniques
for tender ideas that will grow into a productive concept or solution.
The combination of creative skills and technical abilities will enable
the students to be ready to “hit-the-ground-running" and produce in
industry when they graduate.
Abstract: Three-dimensional geometric models have been used
to present architectural and engineering works, showing their final
configuration. When the clarification of a detail or the constitution of
a construction step in needed, these models are not appropriate. They
do not allow the observation of the construction progress of a
building. Models that could present dynamically changes of the
building geometry are a good support to the elaboration of projects.
Techniques of geometric modeling and virtual reality were used to
obtain models that could visually simulate the construction activity.
The applications explain the construction work of a cavity wall and a
bridge. These models allow the visualization of the physical
progression of the work following a planned construction sequence,
the observation of details of the form of every component of the
works and support the study of the type and method of operation of
the equipment applied in the construction. These models presented
distinct advantage as educational aids in first-degree courses in Civil
Engineering. The use of Virtual Reality techniques in the
development of educational applications brings new perspectives to
the teaching of subjects related to the field of civil construction.
Abstract: Here we have considered non uniform microstrip
leaky-wave antenna implemented on a dielectric waveguide by a
sinusoidal profile of periodic metallic grating. The non distribution of
the attenuation constant α along propagation axis, optimize the
radiating characteristics and performances of such antennas. The
method developped here is based on an integral method where the
formalism of the admittance operator is combined to a BKW
approximation. First, the effect of the modeling in the modal analysis
of complex waves is studied in detail. Then, the BKW model is used
for the dispersion analysis of the antenna of interest. According to
antenna theory, a forced continuity of the leaky-wave magnitude at
discontinuities of the non uniform structure is established. To test the
validity of our dispersion analysis, computed radiation patterns are
presented and compared in the millimeter band.
Abstract: The ability of agricultural and decorative plants to
absorb and detoxify TNT and RDX has been studied. All tested 8
plants, grown hydroponically, were able to absorb these explosives
from water solutions: Alfalfa > Soybean > Chickpea> Chikling vetch
>Ryegrass > Mung bean> China bean > Maize. Differently from
TNT, RDX did not exhibit negative influence on seed germination
and plant growth. Moreover, some plants, exposed to RDX
containing solution were increased in their biomass by 20%. Study of
the fate of absorbed [1-14ðí]-TNT revealed the label distribution in
low and high-molecular mass compounds, both in roots and above
ground parts of plants, prevailing in the later. Content of 14ðí in lowmolecular
compounds in plant roots are much higher than in above
ground parts. On the contrary, high-molecular compounds are more
intensively labeled in aboveground parts of soybean. Most part (up to
70%) of metabolites of TNT, formed either by enzymatic reduction
or oxidation, is found in high molecular insoluble conjugates.
Activation of enzymes, responsible for reduction, oxidation and
conjugation of TNT, such as nitroreductase, peroxidase,
phenoloxidase and glutathione S-transferase has been demonstrated.
Among these enzymes, only nitroreductase was shown to be induced
in alfalfa, exposed to RDX. The increase in malate dehydrogenase
activities in plants, exposed to both explosives, indicates
intensification of Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle, that generates reduced
equivalents of NAD(P)H, necessary for functioning of the
nitroreductase. The hypothetic scheme of TNT metabolism in plants
is proposed.
Abstract: Structured catalysts formed from the growth of
zeolites on substrates is an area of increasing interest due to the
increased efficiency of the catalytic process, and the ability to
provide superior heat transfer and thermal conductivity for both
exothermic and endothermic processes.
However, the generation of structured catalysts represents a
significant challenge when balancing the relationship variables
between materials properties and catalytic performance, with the
Na2O, H2O and Al2O3 gel composition paying a significant role in
this dynamic, thereby affecting the both the type and range of
application.
The structured catalyst films generated as part of this
investigation have been characterised using a range of techniques,
including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Electron microscopy (SEM),
Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and Thermogravimetric
Analysis (TGA), with the transition from oxide-on-alloy wires to
hydrothermally synthesised uniformly zeolite coated surfaces being
demonstrated using both SEM and XRD. The robustness of the
coatings has been ascertained by subjecting these to thermal cycling
(ambient to 550oC), with the results indicating that the synthesis time
and gel compositions have a crucial effect on the quality of zeolite
growth on the FeCrAlloy wires.
Finally, the activity of the structured catalyst was verified by a
series of comparison experiments with standard zeolite Y catalysts in
powdered pelleted forms.
Abstract: Stipples are desired for pattern fillings and
transparency effects. In contrast, some graphics standards, including
OpenGL ES 1.1 and 2.0, omitted this feature. We represent details of
providing line stipples and polygon stipples, through combining
texture mapping and alpha blending functions. We start from the
OpenGL-specified stipple-related API functions. The details of
mathematical transformations are explained to get the correct texture
coordinates. Then, the overall algorithm is represented, and its
implementation results are followed. We accomplished both of line
and polygon stipples, and verified its result with conformance test
routines.
Abstract: The Romanian government has been making
significant attempts to make its services and information available on
the Internet. According to the UN e-government survey conducted in
2008, Romania comes under mid range countries by utilization of egovernment
(percent of utilization 41%). Romania-s national portal
www.e-guvernare.ro aims at progressively making all services and
information accessible through the portal. However, the success of
these efforts depends, to a great extent, on how well the targeted
users for such services, citizens in general, make use of them. For
this reason, the purpose of the presented study was to identify what
factors could affect the citizens' adoption of e-government services.
The study is an extension of the Technology Acceptance Model. The
proposed model was validated using data collected from 481 citizens.
The results provided substantial support for all proposed hypotheses
and showed the significance of the extended constructs.
Abstract: In any trust model, the two information sources that a peer relies on to predict trustworthiness of another peer are direct experience as well as reputation. These two vital components evolve over time. Trust evolution is an important issue, where the objective is to observe a sequence of past values of a trust parameter and determine the future estimates. Unfortunately, trust evolution algorithms received little attention and the proposed algorithms in the literature do not comply with the conditions and the nature of trust. This paper contributes to this important problem in the following ways: (a) presents an algorithm that manages and models trust evolution in a P2P environment, (b) devises new mechanisms for effectively maintaining trust values based on the conditions that influence trust evolution , and (c) introduces a new methodology for incorporating trust-nurture incentives into the trust evolution algorithm. Simulation experiments are carried out to evaluate our trust evolution algorithm.
Abstract: This paper explores the sense of place in the Vredefort Dome World Heritage site, South Africa, as an essential input for the formulation of spatial planning proposals for the area. Intangible aspects such as personal and symbolic meanings of sites are currently not integrated in spatial planning in South Africa. This may have a detrimental effect on local inhabitants who have a long history with the site and built up a strong place identity. Involving local inhabitants at an early stage of the planning process and incorporating their attitudes and opinions in future intervention in the area, may also contribute to the acceptance of the legitimacy of future policy. An interdisciplinary and mixed-method research approach was followed in this study in order to identify possible ways to anchor spatial planning proposals in the identity of the place. In essence, the qualitative study revealed that inhabitants reflect a deep and personal relationship with and within the area, which contributes significantly to their sense of emotional security and selfidentity. Results include a strong conservation-orientated attitude with regard to the natural rural character of the site, especially in the inner core.
Abstract: This paper presents the comparative study of coded
data methods for finding the benefit of concealing the natural data
which is the mercantile secret. Influential parameters of the number
of replicates (rep), treatment effects (τ) and standard deviation (σ)
against the efficiency of each transformation method are investigated.
The experimental data are generated via computer simulations under
the specified condition of the process with the completely
randomized design (CRD). Three ways of data transformation consist
of Box-Cox, arcsine and logit methods. The difference values of F
statistic between coded data and natural data (Fc-Fn) and hypothesis
testing results were determined. The experimental results indicate
that the Box-Cox results are significantly different from natural data
in cases of smaller levels of replicates and seem to be improper when
the parameter of minus lambda has been assigned. On the other hand,
arcsine and logit transformations are more robust and obviously,
provide more precise numerical results. In addition, the alternate
ways to select the lambda in the power transformation are also
offered to achieve much more appropriate outcomes.
Abstract: In this study, we developed an algorithm for detecting
seam cracks in a steel plate. Seam cracks are generated in the edge
region of a steel plate. We used the Gabor filter and an adaptive double
threshold method to detect them. To reduce the number of pseudo
defects, features based on the shape of seam cracks were used. To
evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm, we tested 989
images with seam cracks and 9470 defect-free images. Experimental
results show that the proposed algorithm is suitable for detecting seam
cracks. However, it should be improved to increase the true positive
rate.
Abstract: Over the years, there is a growing trend towards
quality-based specifications in highway construction. In many
Quality Control/Quality Assurance (QC/QA) specifications, the
contractor is primarily responsible for quality control of the process,
whereas the highway agency is responsible for testing the acceptance
of the product. A cooperative investigation was conducted in Illinois
over several years to develop a prototype End-Result Specification
(ERS) for asphalt pavement construction. The final characteristics of
the product are stipulated in the ERS and the contractor is given
considerable freedom in achieving those characteristics. The risk for
the contractor or agency depends on how the acceptance limits and
processes are specified. Stochastic simulation models are very useful
in estimating and analyzing payment risk in ERS systems and these
form an integral part of the Illinois-s prototype ERS system. This
paper describes the development of an innovative methodology to
estimate the variability components in in-situ density, air voids and
asphalt content data from ERS projects. The information gained from
this would be crucial in simulating these ERS projects for estimation
and analysis of payment risks associated with asphalt pavement
construction. However, these methods require at least two parties to
conduct tests on all the split samples obtained according to the
sampling scheme prescribed in present ERS implemented in Illinois.
Abstract: A key element of many distribution systems is the
routing and scheduling of vehicles servicing a set of customers. A
wide variety of exact and approximate algorithms have been
proposed for solving the vehicle routing problems (VRP). Exact
algorithms can only solve relatively small problems of VRP, which is
classified as NP-Hard. Several approximate algorithms have proven
successful in finding a feasible solution not necessarily optimum.
Although different parts of the problem are stochastic in nature; yet,
limited work relevant to the application of discrete event system
simulation has addressed the problem. Presented here is optimization
using simulation of VRP; where, a simplified problem has been
developed in the ExtendSimTM simulation environment; where,
ExtendSimTM evolutionary optimizer is used to minimize the total
transportation cost of the problem. Results obtained from the model
are very satisfactory. Further complexities of the problem are
proposed for consideration in the future.
Abstract: Deoxyribonucleic Acid or DNA computing has
emerged as an interdisciplinary field that draws together chemistry,
molecular biology, computer science and mathematics. Thus, in this
paper, the possibility of DNA-based computing to solve an absolute
1-center problem by molecular manipulations is presented. This is
truly the first attempt to solve such a problem by DNA-based
computing approach. Since, part of the procedures involve with
shortest path computation, research works on DNA computing for
shortest path Traveling Salesman Problem, in short, TSP are reviewed.
These approaches are studied and only the appropriate one is adapted
in designing the computation procedures. This DNA-based
computation is designed in such a way that every path is encoded by
oligonucleotides and the path-s length is directly proportional to the
length of oligonucleotides. Using these properties, gel electrophoresis
is performed in order to separate the respective DNA molecules
according to their length. One expectation arise from this paper is that
it is possible to verify the instance absolute 1-center problem using
DNA computing by laboratory experiments.
Abstract: Sonogram images of normal and lymphocyte thyroid tissues have considerable overlap which makes it difficult to interpret and distinguish. Classification from sonogram images of thyroid gland is tackled in semiautomatic way. While making manual diagnosis from images, some relevant information need not to be recognized by human visual system. Quantitative image analysis could be helpful to manual diagnostic process so far done by physician. Two classes are considered: normal tissue and chronic lymphocyte thyroid (Hashimoto's Thyroid). Data structure is analyzed using K-nearest-neighbors classification. This paper is mentioned that unlike the wavelet sub bands' energy, histograms and Haralick features are not appropriate to distinguish between normal tissue and Hashimoto's thyroid.
Abstract: The Internet and the ever growing applications enable
communities to share and collaborate through common platforms.
However, this growing pattern is not witnessed yet even for elearning.
This paper is based on a doctoral research which aimed at
researching the ways students interact in an online campus and the
supports that they look for and require. Content analysis, based on the
Panchoo/Jaillet methodology, was done on four synchronous
meetings between a tutor and his ten students. The UNIV-Rct ecampus,
analogical to a physical campus, was found to be user
friendly and the students enrolled in a master-s course faced no
difficulties in using it. In addition to the environmental aspects, the
pedagogical implementation of the course has driven the students to
interact and collaborate significantly and this has contributed to
overcome the problems faced by the distance learners. This
completely online model was found to be fruitful in helping distant
learners fight their loneliness and brave their difficulties in a socioconstructivism
approach.