Search results for: Jahangir Ahmad Rather
977 Demographic Factors Influence on Awareness of Islamic Financing among Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Entrepreneurs in the North East Region of Nigeria
Authors: Bashir Ahmad, Daneji, Hamidu Aminu, Ahmad, Aliyu Mukhtar, Daneji, Haruna Mohammed
Abstract:
It has been established and universally agreed that vibrant Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play significant roles in economic growth and development. In Nigeria, MSMEs are not playing the expected roles. Notable among the plethora of reasons is lack of prompt and sufficient finance. Government and other stakeholders attempted in several ways at different times to provide the required finance to MSMEs but the results were not encouraging and consequently, many failed. In recent past, Islamic financing emerged world over as promising alternative source of financing. However, its awareness among MSMEs entrepreneurs in north east region of Nigeria stands to be questioned. This study explored the 'Demographic Factors Influence on Awareness of Islamic Financing among MSMEs entrepreneurs in the North East Region of Nigeria'. The primary data used in this study were collected through questionnaire. In analyzing the collected data, the study used frequency, percentages, Pearson correlation, ANOVA and test of homogeneity test (Levene’s test) parameters generated from SPSS (version 15). The findings of the study revealed that entrepreneurs’ age, state of origin, religion and educational level influence their MSMEs awareness of Islamic Financing in the north east region of Nigeria. The study recommended that Islamic Financing institutions, government and relevant agencies should do more to enhance the awareness of Islamic financing among MSMEs entrepreneurs in the north east region of Nigeria.Keywords: awareness, demographic factors, entrepreneurs, Islamic financing
Procedia PDF Downloads 366976 SWOT Analysis of the Industrial Sector in Kuwait
Authors: Abdullah Al-Alaian, Ahmad Al-Enzi, Hasan Al-Herz, Ahmad Bakri, Shant Tatorian, Amr Nounou
Abstract:
Kuwait is a country that has an imbalanced economy since most of its national outcome comes from the oil trade. It is so risky for a country to be dependent on a single source for income, and this increases the need to diversify its economy. In addition, according to the Public Authority for Industry, the contribution of the industrial sector to the current Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Kuwait is low which is about 4.33%. Therefore, the development of the industrial sector can be one of the means to diversify the economy and increase the industry's contribution to the national outcome. This is in accordance with Kuwait’s vision of 2035 which aims at increasing the contribution of the industrial sector to the GDP to 12%. In order to do so, this study aims at proposing a strategic plan that will accomplish certain objectives when implemented. It is based on analyzing the industrial sectors in Kuwait taking into consideration studying the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing them. At the same time, it tends to gain from the experience of leading models and neighboring countries regarding the development of the industrial sector. In this study, the SWOT analysis technique will be conducted on all industrial sectors based on evaluation criteria in which it is determined whether any of them has a potential for improvement or not. In other words, it is determined whether the sectors are able to compete locally, regionally, or globally. Based on the results of the SWOT analysis, certain sectors will be chosen, assessed based on an assessment scheme, and their potentials for improvement will be aligned with the overall objectives. To ensure the achievement of the study’s objectives, an action plan will be proposed regarding recommendations for the related authorities, and for entrepreneurs. In addition, monitoring tools are going to be provided for the purpose of periodically checking the progress made in the implementation of the plan.Keywords: industrial sector, SWOT analysis, productivity, competitiveness, GDP, Kuwait, economy
Procedia PDF Downloads 479975 Comparative Evaluation of Pentazocine and Tramadol as Pre-Emptive Analgesics for Ovariohysterectomy in Female Dogs
Authors: Venkatgiri, Ranganath, L. Nagaraja, B. N. Sagar Pandav, S. M. Usturge, D. Dilipkumar, B. V. Shivprakash, B. Bhagwanthappa, D. Jahangir
Abstract:
A comparative evaluation of Tramadol and Pentazocine as a pre-emptive analgesic in clinical cases of female dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy was undertaken during this study. During the study, the following parameters were assessed viz., Rectal temperature (ᵒF), Respiratory rate (breaths/min) and Heart rate (beats/min). Hematological and biochemical parameters viz., total erythrocyte count (TEC) (millions/cmm), hemoglobin (g %), otal leucocytes count (TLC) (thousands/cmm), differential leucocytes count (DLC) (%), serum creatinine (mg/dl), plasma protein (mg/dl), blood glucose (mg/dl) was estimated before the surgery and after administration of general anaesthesia and immediate postoperative periods of 0, 12 and 24 hr respectively. Mean Total Pain Score (MTPS) includes measurement of parameters like posture, vocalization, activity level, response to palpation and agitation at different intervals was calculated before surgery and after administration of general anesthesia and post-operative periods of 1, 2, 4, 6, 12hrs and 24 hrs respectively. Mean Total Pain Score (MTPS) was given for each parameter (Posture, Vocalization, Activity Level, Response to Palpation and Agitation) like 0,1,2,3. (maximum score will be given was 4.). Results were revealed in all three groups including control group. There were significant minor alterations in physiological, hematological and biochemical parameters. MTPS (mean total pain score) were revealed and found a significant alteration when compared with control group. In conclusion, Tramadol found to be a better analgesic and had up to 8hrs of analgesic effect and Pentazocine is superior in post-operative pain management when compared to Tramadol because this group of dogs experienced less surgical stress, consumed less anesthetic dose, they recovered early, and they had less MTPS score.Keywords: dog, pentazocine, tramadol, ovariohysterectomy
Procedia PDF Downloads 167974 Impact of Unusual Dust Event on Regional Climate in India
Authors: Kanika Taneja, V. K. Soni, Kafeel Ahmad, Shamshad Ahmad
Abstract:
A severe dust storm generated from a western disturbance over north Pakistan and adjoining Afghanistan affected the north-west region of India between May 28 and 31, 2014, resulting in significant reductions in air quality and visibility. The air quality of the affected region degraded drastically. PM10 concentration peaked at a very high value of around 1018 μgm-3 during dust storm hours of May 30, 2014 at New Delhi. The present study depicts aerosol optical properties monitored during the dust days using ground based multi-wavelength Sky radiometer over the National Capital Region of India. High Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) at 500 nm was observed as 1.356 ± 0.19 at New Delhi while Angstrom exponent (Alpha) dropped to 0.287 on May 30, 2014. The variation in the Single Scattering Albedo (SSA) and real n(λ) and imaginary k(λ) parts of the refractive index indicated that the dust event influences the optical state to be more absorbing. The single scattering albedo, refractive index, volume size distribution and asymmetry parameter (ASY) values suggested that dust aerosols were predominant over the anthropogenic aerosols in the urban environment of New Delhi. The large reduction in the radiative flux at the surface level caused significant cooling at the surface. Direct Aerosol Radiative Forcing (DARF) was calculated using a radiative transfer model during the dust period. A consistent increase in surface cooling was evident, ranging from -31 Wm-2 to -82 Wm-2 and an increase in heating of the atmosphere from 15 Wm-2 to 92 Wm-2 and -2 Wm-2 to 10 Wm-2 at top of the atmosphere.Keywords: aerosol optical properties, dust storm, radiative transfer model, sky radiometer
Procedia PDF Downloads 377973 Zeolite Supported Iron-Sensitized TIO₂ for Tetracycline Photocatalytic Degradation under Visible Light: A Comparison between Doping and Ion Exchange
Authors: Ghadeer Jalloul, Nour Hijazi, Cassia Boyadjian, Hussein Awala, Mohammad N. Ahmad, Ahmad Albadarin
Abstract:
In this study, we applied Fe-sensitized TiO₂ supported over embryonic Beta zeolite (BEA) zeolite for the photocatalytic degradation of Tetracycline (TC) antibiotic under visible light. Four different samples having 20, 40, 60, and 100% w/w as a ratio of TiO₂/BEA were prepared. The immobilization of solgel TiO₂ (33 m²/g) over BEA (390 m²/g) increased its surface area to (227 m²/g) and enhanced its adsorption capacity from 8% to 19%. To expand the activity of TiO₂ photocatalyst towards the visible light region (λ>380 nm), we explored two different metal sensitization techniques with Iron ions (Fe³⁺). In the ion-exchange method, the substitutional cations in the zeolite in TiO₂/BEA were exchanged with (Fe³⁺) in an aqueous solution of FeCl₃. In the doping technique, solgel TiO₂ was doped with (Fe³⁺) from FeCl₃ precursor during its synthesis and before its immobilization over BEA. (Fe-TiO₂/BEA) catalysts were characterized using SEM, XRD, BET, UV-VIS DRS, and FTIR. After testing the performance of the various ion-exchanged catalysts under blue and white lights, only (Fe-TiO₂/BEA 60%) showed better activity as compared to pure TiO₂ under white light with 100 ppm initial catalyst concentration and 20 ppm TC concentration. As compared to ion-exchanged (Fe-TiO₂/BEA), doped (Fe-TiO₂/BEA) resulted in higher photocatalytic efficiencies under blue and white lights. The 3%-Fe-doped TiO₂/BEA removed 92% of TC compared to 54% by TiO₂ under white light. The catalysts were also tested under real solar irradiations. This improvement in the photocatalytic performance of TiO₂ was due to its higher adsorption capacity due to BEA support combined with the presence of Iron ions that enhance the visible light absorption and minimize the recombination effect by the charge carriers. Keywords: Tetracycline, photocatalytic degradation, immobilized TiO₂, zeolite, iron-doped TiO₂, ion-exchange
Procedia PDF Downloads 106972 Effect of Various Durations of Type 2 Diabetes on Muscle Performance
Authors: Santosh Kumar Yadav, Shobha Keswani, Nishat Quddus, Sohrab Ahmad Khan, Zuheb Ahmad Shiddiqui, Varsha Chorsiya
Abstract:
Introduction: Early onset diabetes is more aggressive than the late onset diabetes. Diabetic individual has a greater spectrum of life period to suffer from its damage, complications, and long-term disability. This study aimed at assessing knee joint muscle performance under various durations of diabetes. Method and Materials: A total of 30 diabetic subjects (18 male and 12 females) without diabetic neuropathy were included for the study. They were divided into three groups with 5 years, 10 years and 15 years of duration of disease each. Muscle performance was evaluated through strength and flexibility. Peak torque for quadriceps muscle was measured using isokinetic dynamometer. Flexibility for quadriceps and hamstring muscles were measured through Ducan’s Elys test and 90/90 test. Results: The result showed significant difference in muscle strength (p<0.05), flexibility (p≤0.05) between groups. Discussion: Optimal muscle strength and flexibility are vital for musculoskeletal health and functional independence. Conclusion: The reduced muscle performance and functional impairment in nonneuropathic diabetic patients suggest that other mechanism besides neuropathy that contribute to altered biomechanics. These findings of this study project early management of these altered parameters through disease-specific physical therapy and assessment-based intervention. Clinical Relevance: Managing disability is more costly than managing disease. Prompt and timely identification and management strategy can dramatically reduce the cost of care for diabetic patients.Keywords: muscle flexibility, muscle performance, muscle torque, type 2 diabetes
Procedia PDF Downloads 328971 Fungi Associated with Decline of Kikar (Acacia nilotica) and Red River Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) in Faisalabad
Authors: I. Ahmad, A. Hannan, S. Ahmad, M. Asif, M. F. Nawaz, M. A. Tanvir, M. F. Azhar
Abstract:
During this research, a comprehensive survey of tree growing areas of Faisalabad district of Pakistan was conducted to observe the symptoms, spectrum, occurrence and severity of A. nilotica and E. camaldulensis decline. Objective of current research was to investigate specific fungal pathogens involved in decline of A. nilotica and E. camaldulensis. For this purpose, infected roots, bark, neck portion, stem, branches, leaves and infected soils were collected to identify associated fungi. Potato dextrose agar (PDA) and Czepak dox agar media were used for isolations. Identification of isolated fungi was done microscopically and different fungi were identified. During survey of urban locations of Faisalabad, disease incidence on Kikar and Eucalyptus was recorded as 3.9-7.9% and 2.6-7.1% respectively. Survey of Agroforest zones of Faisalabad revealed decline incidence on kikar 7.5% from Sargodha road while on Satiana and Jhang road it was not planted. In eucalyptus trees, 4%, 8% and 0% disease incidence was observed on Jhang road, Sargodha road and Satiana road respectively. The maximum fungus isolated from the kikar tree was Drechslera australiensis (5.00%) from the stem part. Aspergillus flavus also gave the maximum value of (3.05%) from the bark. Alternaria alternata gave the maximum value of (2.05%) from leaves. Rhizopus and Mucor spp. were recorded minimum as compared to the Drechslera, Alternaria and Aspergillus. The maximum fungus isolated from the Eucalyptus tree was Armillaria luteobubalina (5.00%) from the stem part. The other fungi isolated were Macrophamina phaseolina and A. niger.Keywords: decline, frequency of mycoflora, A. nilotica and E. camaldulensis, Drechslera australiensis, Armillaria luteobubalina
Procedia PDF Downloads 369970 Processing and Evaluation of Jute Fiber Reinforced Hybrid Composites
Authors: Mohammad W. Dewan, Jahangir Alam, Khurshida Sharmin
Abstract:
Synthetic fibers (carbon, glass, aramid, etc.) are generally utilized to make composite materials for better mechanical and thermal properties. However, they are expensive and non-biodegradable. In the perspective of Bangladesh, jute fibers are available, inexpensive, and comprising good mechanical properties. The improved properties (i.e., low cost, low density, eco-friendly) of natural fibers have made them a promising reinforcement in hybrid composites without sacrificing mechanical properties. In this study, jute and e-glass fiber reinforced hybrid composite materials are fabricated utilizing hand lay-up followed by a compression molding technique. Room temperature cured two-part epoxy resin is used as a matrix. Approximate 6-7 mm thick composite panels are fabricated utilizing 17 layers of woven glass and jute fibers with different fiber layering sequences- only jute, only glass, glass, and jute alternatively (g/j/g/j---) and 4 glass - 9 jute – 4 glass (4g-9j-4g). The fabricated composite panels are analyzed through fiber volume calculation, tensile test, bending test, and water absorption test. The hybridization of jute and glass fiber results in better tensile, bending, and water absorption properties than only jute fiber-reinforced composites, but inferior properties as compared to only glass fiber reinforced composites. Among different fiber layering sequences, 4g-9j-4g fibers layering sequence resulted in better tensile, bending, and water absorption properties. The effect of chemical treatment on the woven jute fiber and chopped glass microfiber infusion are also investigated in this study. Chemically treated jute fiber and 2 wt. % chopped glass microfiber infused hybrid composite shows about 12% improvements in flexural strength as compared to untreated and no micro-fiber infused hybrid composite panel. However, fiber chemical treatment and micro-filler do not have a significant effect on tensile strength.Keywords: compression molding, chemical treatment, hybrid composites, mechanical properties
Procedia PDF Downloads 158969 Production of Size-Selected Tin Nanoclusters for Device Applications
Authors: Ahmad I. Ayesh
Abstract:
This work reports on the fabrication of tin nanoclusters by sputtering and inert-gas condensation inside an ultra-high vacuum compatible system. This technique allows to fine tune the size and yield of nanoclusters by controlling the nanocluster source parameters. The produced nanoclusters are deposited on SiO2/Si substrate with pre-formed electrical electrodes to produce a nanocluster device. Those devices can be potentially used for gas sensor applications.Keywords: tin, nanoclusters, inert-gas condensation, nanotechnology
Procedia PDF Downloads 366968 Inner Derivations of Low-Dimensional Diassociative Algebras
Authors: M. A. Fiidow, Ahmad M. Alenezi
Abstract:
In this work, we study the inner derivations of diassociative algebras in dimension two and three, an algorithmic approach is adopted for the computation of inner derivation, using some results from the derivation of finite dimensional diassociative algebras. Some basic properties of inner derivation of finite dimensional diassociative algebras are also provided.Keywords: diassociative algebras, inner derivations, derivations, left and right operator
Procedia PDF Downloads 270967 Ground Track Assessment Using Electrical Resistivity Tomography Application
Authors: Noryani Natasha Yahaya, Anas Ibrahim, Juraidah Ahmad, Azura Ahmad, Mohd Ikmal Fazlan Rosli, Zailan Ramli, Muhd Sidek Muhd Norhasri
Abstract:
The subgrade formation is an important element of the railway structure which holds overall track stability. Conventional track maintenance involves many substructure component replacements, as well as track re-ballasting on a regular basis is partially contributed to the embankment's long-term settlement problem. For subgrade long-term stability analysis, the geophysical method is commonly being used to diagnose those hidden sources/mechanisms of track deterioration problems that the normal visual method is unable to detect. Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) is one of the applicable geophysical tools that are helpful in railway subgrade inspection/track monitoring due to its flexibility and reliability of the analysis. The ERT was conducted at KM 23.0 of Pinang Tunggal track to investigate the subgrade of railway track through the characterization/mapping on track formation profiling which was directly generated using 2D analysis of Res2dinv software. The profiles will allow examination of the presence and spatial extent of a significant subgrade layer and screening of any poor contact of soil boundary. Based on the finding, there is a mix/interpretation/intermixing of an interlayer between the sub-ballast and the sand. Although the embankment track considered here is at no immediate risk of settlement effect or any failure, the regular monitoring of track’s location will allow early correction maintenance if necessary. The developed data of track formation clearly shows the similarity of the side view with the assessed track. The data visualization in the 2D section of the track embankment agreed well with the initial assumption based on the main element structure general side view.Keywords: ground track, assessment, resistivity, geophysical railway, method
Procedia PDF Downloads 155966 Data Mining Practices: Practical Studies on the Telecommunication Companies in Jordan
Authors: Dina Ahmad Alkhodary
Abstract:
This study aimed to investigate the practices of Data Mining on the telecommunication companies in Jordan, from the viewpoint of the respondents. In order to achieve the goal of the study, and test the validity of hypotheses, the researcher has designed a questionnaire to collect data from managers and staff members from main department in the researched companies. The results shows improvements stages of the telecommunications companies towered Data Mining.Keywords: data, mining, development, business
Procedia PDF Downloads 497965 The Phenomena of Virtual World Adoption: Antecedents and Consequences of Virtual World Experience
Authors: Norita Ahmad, Reza Barkhi, Xiaobo Xu
Abstract:
We design an experimental study to learn about the cognitive implications of the use of avatars in a Virtual World (VW) (i.e., Second Life). The results support our proposed model, where a positive flow experience with VW influences the attitude towards VW, in turn influencing intention to use VW. Furthermore, VW flow experience can itself be impacted by perceived peer influence, familiarity with VW, and personality of the individuals behind the avatars in VW.Keywords: avatar, flow experience, personality type, second life, virtual world
Procedia PDF Downloads 598964 Glacier Dynamics and Mass Fluctuations in Western Himalayas: A Comparative Analysis of Pir-Panjal and Greater Himalayan Ranges in Jhelum Basin, India
Authors: Syed Towseef Ahmad, Fatima Amin, Pritha Acharya, Anil K. Gupta, Pervez Ahmad
Abstract:
Glaciers being the sentinels of climate change, are the most visible evidence of global warming. Given the unavailability of observed field-based data, this study has focussed on the use of geospatial techniques to obtain information about the glaciers of Pir-Panjal (PPJ) and the Great Himalayan Regions of Jhelum Basin (GHR). These glaciers need to be monitored in line with the variations in climatic conditions because they significantly contribute to various sectors in the region. The main aim of this study is to map the glaciers in the two adjacent regions (PPJ and GHR) in the north-western Himalayas with different topographies and compare the changes in various glacial attributes during two different time periods (1990-2020). During the last three decades, both PPJ as well as GHR regions have observed deglaciation of around 36 and 26 percent, respectively. The mean elevation of GHR glaciers has increased from 4312 to 4390 masl, while the same for PPJ glaciers has increased from 4085 to 4124 masl during the observation period. Using accumulation area ratio (AAR) method, mean mass balance of -34.52 and -37.6 cm.w.e was recorded for the glaciers of GHR and PPJ, respectively. The difference in areal and mass loss of glaciers in these regions may be due to (i) the smaller size of PPJ glaciers which are all smaller than 1 km² and are thus more responsive to climate change (ii) Higher mean elevation of GHR glaciers (iii) local variations in climatic variables in these glaciated regions. Time series analysis of climate variables indicates that both the mean maximum and minimum temperatures of Qazigund station (Tmax= 19.2, Tmin= 6.4) are comparatively higher than the Pahalgam station (Tmax= 18.8, Tmin= 3.2). Except for precipitation in Qazigund (Slope= - 0.3 mm a⁻¹), each climatic parameter has shown an increasing trend during these three decades, and with the slope of 0.04 and 0.03°c a⁻¹, the positive trend in Tmin (pahalgam) and Tmax (qazigund) are observed to be statistically significant (p≤0.05).Keywords: glaciers, climate change, Pir-Panjal, greater Himalayas, mass balance
Procedia PDF Downloads 88963 Investigation of the Corroded Steel Beam
Authors: Hesamaddin Khoshnoodi, Ahmad Rahbar Ranji
Abstract:
Corrosion in steel structures is one of the most important issues that should be considered in designing and constructing. Corrosion reduces the cross section and load capacity of element and leads to costly damage of structures. In this paper, the corrosion has been modeled for moment stresses. Moreover, the steel beam has been modeled using ABAQUS advanced finite element software. The conclusions of this study demonstrated that the displacement of the analyzed composite steel girder bridge might increase.Keywords: Abaqus, Corrosion, deformation, Steel Beam
Procedia PDF Downloads 354962 Reconstruction and Rejection of External Disturbances in a Dynamical System
Authors: Iftikhar Ahmad, A. Benallegue, A. El Hadri
Abstract:
In this paper, we have proposed an observer for the reconstruction and a control law for the rejection application of unknown bounded external disturbance in a dynamical system. The strategy of both the observer and the controller is designed like a second order sliding mode with a proportional-integral (PI) term. Lyapunov theory is used to prove the exponential convergence and stability. Simulations results are given to show the performance of this method.Keywords: non-linear systems, sliding mode observer, disturbance rejection, nonlinear control
Procedia PDF Downloads 334961 Jacobson Semisimple Skew Inverse Laurent Series Rings
Authors: Ahmad Moussavi
Abstract:
In this paper, we are concerned with the Jacobson semisimple skew inverse Laurent series rings R((x−1; α, δ)) and the skew Laurent power series rings R[[x, x−1; α]], where R is an associative ring equipped with an automorphism α and an α-derivation δ. Examples to illustrate and delimit the theory are provided.Keywords: skew polynomial rings, Laurent series, skew inverse Laurent series rings
Procedia PDF Downloads 165960 Assessment of Land Suitability for Tea Cultivation Using Geoinformatics in the Mansehra and Abbottabad District, Pakistan
Authors: Nasir Ashraf, Sajid Rahid Ahmad, Adeel Ahmad
Abstract:
Pakistan is a major tea consumer country and ranked as the third largest importer of tea worldwide. Out of all beverage consumed in Pakistan, tea is the one with most demand for which tea import is inevitable. Being an agrarian country, Pakistan should cultivate its own tea and save the millions of dollars cost from tea import. So the need is to identify the most suitable areas with favorable weather condition and suitable soils where tea can be planted. This research is conducted over District Mansehra and District Abbottabad in Khyber Pakhtoonkhwah Province of Pakistan where the most favorable conditions for tea cultivation already exist and National Tea Research Institute has done successful experiments to cultivate high quality tea. High tech approach is adopted to meet the objectives of this research by using the remotely sensed data i.e. Aster DEM, Landsat8 Imagery. The Remote Sensing data was processed in Erdas Imagine, Envi and further analyzed in ESRI ArcGIS spatial analyst for final results and representation of result data in map layouts. Integration of remote sensing data with GIS provided the perfect suitability analysis. The results showed that out of all study area, 13.4% area is highly suitable while 33.44% area is suitable for tea plantation. The result of this research is an impressive GIS based outcome and structured format of data for the agriculture planners and Tea growers. Identification of suitable tea growing areas by using remotely sensed data and GIS techniques is a pressing need for the country. Analysis of this research lets the planners to address variety of action plans in an economical and scientific manner which can lead tea production in Pakistan to meet demand. This geomatics based model and approach may be used to identify more areas for tea cultivation to meet our demand which we can reduce by planting our own tea, and our country can be independent in tea production.Keywords: agrarian country, GIS, geoinformatics, suitability analysis, remote sensing
Procedia PDF Downloads 388959 A Study on the Synthesis of Boron Nitride Microtubes
Authors: Pervaiz Ahmad, Mayeen Uddin Khandaker, Yusoff Mohd Amin
Abstract:
A unique cone-like morphologies of boron nitride microtubes with larger internal space and thin walls structure are synthesized in a dual zone quartz tube furnace at 1200 ° C with ammonia as a reaction atmosphere. The synthesized microtubes are found to have diameter in the range of 1 to ̴ 2 μm with walls thickness estimated from 10 – 100 nm. XPS survey shows N 1s and B 1s peaks at 398.7 eV and 191 eV that represent h-BN in the sample. Raman spectroscopy indicates a high intensity peak at 1372.53 (cm-1) that corresponds to the E2g mode of h-BN.Keywords: BNMTs, synthesis, reaction atmosphere, growth
Procedia PDF Downloads 384958 Semiconductor Supported Gold Nanoparticles for Photodegradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Ahmad Alshammari, Abdulaziz Bagabas, Muhamad Assulami
Abstract:
Rhodamine B (RB) is a toxic dye used extensively in textile industry, which must be remediated before its drainage to the environment. In the present study, supported gold nanoparticles on commercially available titania and zincite were successfully prepared and then their activity on the photodegradation of RB under UV-A light irradiation were evaluated. The synthesized photocatalysts were characterized by ICP, BET, XRD, and TEM. Kinetic results showed that Au/TiO2 was an inferior photocatalyst to Au/ZnO. This observation could be attributed to the strong reflection of UV irradiation by gold nanoparticles over TiO2 support.Keywords: supported AuNPs, semiconductor photocatalyst, photodegradation, rhodamine B
Procedia PDF Downloads 454957 Neighbor Caring Environment System (NCE) Using Parallel Replication Mechanism
Authors: Ahmad Shukri Mohd Noor, Emma Ahmad Sirajudin, Rabiei Mamat
Abstract:
Pertaining to a particular Marine interest, the process of data sampling could take years before a study can be concluded. Therefore, the need for a robust backup system for the data is invariably implicit. In recent advancement of Marine applications, more functionalities and tools are integrated to assist the work of the researchers. It is anticipated that this modality will continue as research scope widens and intensifies and at the same to follow suit with current technologies and lifestyles. The convenience to collect and share information these days also applies to the work in Marine research. Therefore, Marine system designers should be aware that high availability is a necessary attribute in Marine repository applications as well as a robust backup system for the data. In this paper, the approach to high availability is related both to hardware and software but the focus is more on software. We consider a NABTIC repository system that is primitively built on a single server and does not have replicated components. First, the system is decomposed into separate modules. The modules are placed on multiple servers to create a distributed system. Redundancy is added by placing the copies of the modules on different servers using Neighbor Caring Environment System(NCES) technique. NCER is utilizing parallel replication components mechanism. A background monitoring is established to check servers’ heartbeats to confirm their aliveness. At the same time, a critical adaptive threshold is maintained to make sure a failure is timely detected using Adaptive Fault Detection (AFD). A confirmed failure will set the recovery mode where a selection process will be done before a fail-over server is instructed. In effect, the Marine repository service is continued as the fail-over masks a recent failure. The performance of the new prototype is tested and is confirmed to be more highly available. Furthermore, the downtime is not noticeable as service is immediately restored automatically. The Marine repository system is said to have achieved fault tolerance.Keywords: availability, fault detection, replication, fault tolerance, marine application
Procedia PDF Downloads 321956 The Thermal Simulation of Hydraulic Cable Drum Trailers 15-Ton
Authors: Ahmad Abdul-Razzak Aboudi Al-Issa
Abstract:
Thermal is the main important aspect in any hydraulic system since it is affected on the hydraulic system performance. Therefore must be simulated the hydraulic system -that was designed- in this aspect before constructing it. In this study, an existed expert system was using to simulate the thermal aspect of a designed hydraulic system that will be used in an industrial field. The expert system which is used in this study is (Hydraulic System Calculations), and its symbol (HSC). HSC had been designed and coded in an interactive program userfriendly named (Microsoft Visual Basic 2010).Keywords: fluid power, hydraulic system, thermal and hydrodynamic, expert system
Procedia PDF Downloads 500955 Generating Arabic Fonts Using Rational Cubic Ball Functions
Authors: Fakharuddin Ibrahim, Jamaludin Md. Ali, Ahmad Ramli
Abstract:
In this paper, we will discuss about the data interpolation by using the rational cubic Ball curve. To generate a curve with a better and satisfactory smoothness, the curve segments must be connected with a certain amount of continuity. The continuity that we will consider is of type G1 continuity. The conditions considered are known as the G1 Hermite condition. A simple application of the proposed method is to generate an Arabic font satisfying the required continuity.Keywords: data interpolation, rational ball curve, hermite condition, continuity
Procedia PDF Downloads 429954 Laser Additive Manufacturing: A Literature Review
Authors: Pranav Mohan Parki, C. Mallika Parveen, Tahseen Ahmad Khan, Mihika Shivkumar
Abstract:
Additive manufacturing (AM) is one of the several manufacturing processes in use today. AM comprises of techniques such as ‘Selective Laser Sintering’ and ‘Selective Laser Melting’ etc. along with other equipment and materials has been developed way back in 1980s, although major use of these methods has risen during the last decade. AM seems to be the most efficient way when compared to the traditional machining procedures. Still many problems continue to hinder its progress to becoming the most widely used of all. This paper contributes to the better understanding of AM and also aims at providing viable solutions to these problems, which may further help in enabling AM to become the most flaw free production method.Keywords: additive manufacturing (AM), 3D printing, prototype, laser sintering
Procedia PDF Downloads 380953 A New Modification of Nonlinear Conjugate Gradient Coefficients with Global Convergence Properties
Authors: Ahmad Alhawarat, Mustafa Mamat, Mohd Rivaie, Ismail Mohd
Abstract:
Conjugate gradient method has been enormously used to solve large scale unconstrained optimization problems due to the number of iteration, memory, CPU time, and convergence property, in this paper we find a new class of nonlinear conjugate gradient coefficient with global convergence properties proved by exact line search. The numerical results for our new βK give a good result when it compared with well-known formulas.Keywords: conjugate gradient method, conjugate gradient coefficient, global convergence
Procedia PDF Downloads 463952 Design and Simulation Interface Circuit for Piezoresistive Accelerometers with Offset Cancellation Ability
Authors: Mohsen Bagheri, Ahmad Afifi
Abstract:
This paper presents a new method for read out of the piezoresistive accelerometer sensors. The circuit works based on instrumentation amplifier and it is useful for reducing offset in Wheatstone bridge. The obtained gain is 645 with 1 μv/°c equivalent drift and 1.58 mw power consumption. A Schmitt trigger and multiplexer circuit control output node. A high speed counter is designed in this work. The proposed circuit is designed and simulated in 0.18 μm CMOS technology with 1.8 v power supply.Keywords: piezoresistive accelerometer, zero offset, Schmitt trigger, bidirectional reversible counter
Procedia PDF Downloads 310951 Can Career Advancement and Job Security Act as Collaterals for Commitment? Evidence from the Hotel Industry of Malaysia
Authors: Aizzat Md. Nasurdin, Noor Hazlina Ahmad, Cheng Ling Tan
Abstract:
This study aims to examine the role of career advancement and job security as predictors of employee commitment to their organization. Data was collected from 580 frontline employees attached to two departments of 29 luxury hotels in Peninsular Malaysia. Statistical results using Partial Least Squares technique provided support for the proposed hypotheses. In view of the findings, theoretical and practical implications are discussed.Keywords: organizational commitment, career advancement, job security, frontline employees, luxury hotels, Malaysia
Procedia PDF Downloads 391950 Unveiling the Mystery: Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome in a Middle-Aged Female Presenting with Abdominal Pain
Authors: Thaer Khaleel Swaid, Maryam Al Ahmad, Ishtiaq Ahmad
Abstract:
47-year-old female, known to have a liver cyst and hemangiomas, presented to the gastroenterology clinic for chronic moderate postprandial epigastric pain, which is aggravated by food, leaning forward and relieved on lying flat. The pain was associated with nausea, vomiting, heartburn and excessive burping. She opened her bowel daily, having well-formed stools without blood or mucus. The patient denied NSAID intake, smoking or alcohol. On physical examination during the episode of pain abdomen revealed a soft, lax abdomen and mild tenderness in the epigastric region without organomegaly. Bowel sounds were audible. Her routine hematological and biochemical parameters were within normal, including CBC, Celiac serology, Lipase, Metabolic profile and H pylori stool antigen. The patient underwent an Ultrasound of the abdomen which showed multiple liver cysts, hemangioma, normal GB and biliary tree. Based on the clinical picture and to narrow our differential diagnosis, an ultrasound Doppler for the abdomen was ordered, and it showed celiac artery peak systolic velocity in expiration is 270cm/s, suggestive of median arcuate ligament syndrome. She Had computerized tomography abdomen done and showed a Narrowing of the celiac artery at the origin, likely secondary to low insertion of the median arcuate ligament. Furthermore, Gastroscopy and, later on colonoscopy were done, which was unremarkable. A laparoscopic decompression of the celiac trunk was indicated, for which the patient was referred to vascular surgery. This case confirms that Median Arcuate Ligament syndrome is an unusual diagnosis and is always challenging. Usually, patients undergo extensive workups before a final diagnosis is achieved. Our case highlights the challenge of diagnosing MALS since this entity is rare. It is a good choice to perform abdominal ultrasound with Doppler imaging on a patient with symptoms such as postprandial angina.Keywords: Unveiling the Mystery, MALS, rare entity, Rare vascular phenomenon
Procedia PDF Downloads 17949 Review of Different Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Syed Romat Ali Shah, Bilal Shoaib, Saleem Akhtar, Munib Ahmad, Shahan Sadiqui
Abstract:
Classification is a data mining technique, which is recognizedon Machine Learning (ML) algorithm. It is used to classifythe individual articlein a knownofinformation into a set of predefinemodules or group. Web mining is also a portion of that sympathetic of data mining methods. The main purpose of this paper to analysis and compare the performance of Naïve Bayse Algorithm, Decision Tree, K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), Artificial Neural Network (ANN)and Support Vector Machine (SVM). This paper consists of different ML algorithm and their advantages and disadvantages and also define research issues.Keywords: Data Mining, Web Mining, classification, ML Algorithms
Procedia PDF Downloads 303948 Teaching Health in an Online 3D Virtual Learning Environment
Authors: Nik Siti Hanifah Nik Ahmad
Abstract:
This research discuss about teaching cupping therapy or hijama by using an online 3D Virtual Learning Environment. The experimental platform was using of flash and Second Life as 2D and 3D comparison. 81 samples have been used in three experiments with 21 in the first and 30 in each second and third. The design of the presentation was tested in five categories such as effectiveness, ease of use, efficacy, aesthetic and users’ satisfaction. The results from three experiments had shown promising outcome for usage of the technique to be implement in teaching Cupping Therapy as well as other alternative or conventional medicine knowledge especially for training.Keywords: medical and health, cupping therapy or hijama, second life, online 3D VLE, virtual worlds
Procedia PDF Downloads 421