Search results for: “weights” of elements
2528 The Food Industry in Nigeria: Development and Quality Assurance
Authors: Agi Sunday, Agih Ukuru Agih
Abstract:
In Nigeria, the food processing sector is dominated by small and medium enterprises, as well as multinational food companies. Quality standards are usually related to improving the safety of food products suitable for consumption in accordance to specifications by food regulatory bodies. These standards are essential elements for local and international businesses which contribute to economic progress through industrial development and trade. This review takes a critical look on the Nigerian food industry development in terms of quality standards that are necessary to be given consideration in the production of food and also ways of improving food production in Nigeria through the use of Total Quality Management (TQM) technique and the use of computerized systems to produce high quality and high value products while at the same time reducing production time and cost.Keywords: food industry, quality assurance, Nigeria, TQM, computerized systems
Procedia PDF Downloads 4582527 Framework for Assessment of Non-financial Concentration Risk
Authors: Anchal Gupta
Abstract:
Amid the escalating digitalization and deployment of cross-border technological solutions, a significant portion of the industry and regulatory bodies have begun to pose queries concerning the formulation, computation, and contemplation of concentration risk. In the financial sector, well-established parameters exist for gauging the concentration of a portfolio and similar elements. However, a unified framework appears to be absent, which could guide industry and regulators pertaining to non-financial concentration risk. This paper introduces a framework, constructed on the foundation of multiple regulations where regulators are advocating for licensed corporations to evaluate their concentration risk. The lacuna lies in the fact that, while regulators delineate what constitutes concentration risk, unlike other domains, no guidelines are provided that could assist firms. This frequently results in ambiguity and individual corporate interpretation, which, from a risk management standpoint, is less than ideal.Keywords: concentration risk, non-financial risk, government regulation, financial regulation, non-market risk, MAS, DORA, EDSP, SFC
Procedia PDF Downloads 432526 Silencing the Protagonist: Gender and Rape Depiction in Pakistani Dramas
Authors: Saman R. Khan, Najma Sadiq
Abstract:
Silencing of opinions is an important aspect of Spiral of Silence theory however its applicability in rape-themed dramas requires investigation. This study focuses on the portrayal of female rape victim protagonists in Pakistani dramas and the factors influencing their behavior after rape. A quantitative content analysis was conducted on two prime-time dramas which directly dealt with female rape victims. Results indicate that the female protagonists who faced rape are shown as silent and submissive characters who are unable to communicate about their ordeal due to fear of social isolation. These findings lend support to the Spiral of Silence theory and indicate that the theory’s basic elements (inability to express opinions and fear of social isolation) exist in these TV dramas.Keywords: gender stereotyping, rape victims, the spiral of silence, TV dramas
Procedia PDF Downloads 1722525 Semantic Differential Technique as a Kansei Engineering Tool to Enquire Public Space Design Requirements: The Case of Parks in Tehran
Authors: Nasser Koleini Mamaghani, Sara Mostowfi
Abstract:
The complexity of public space design makes it difficult for designers to simultaneously consider all issues for thorough decision-making. Among public spaces, the public space around people’s house is the most prominent space that affects and impacts people’s daily life. Considering recreational public spaces in cities, their main purpose would be to design for experiences that enable a deep feeling of peace and a moment of being away from the hectic daily life. Respecting human emotions and restoring natural environments, although difficult and to some extent out of reach, are key issues for designing such spaces. In this paper we propose to analyse the structure of recreational public spaces and the related emotional impressions. Furthermore, we suggest investigating how these structures influence people’s choice for public spaces by using differential semantics. According to Kansei methodology, in order to evaluate a situation appropriately, the assessment variables must be adapted to the user’s mental scheme. This means that the first step would have to be the identification of a space’s conceptual scheme. In our case study, 32 Kansei words and 4 different locations, each with a different sensual experience, were selected. The 4 locations were all parks in the city of Tehran (Iran), each with a unique structure and artifacts such as a fountain, lighting, sculptures, and music. It should be noted that each of these parks has different combination and structure of environmental and artificial elements like: fountain, lightning, sculpture, music (sound) and so forth. The first one was park No.1, a park with natural environment, the selected space was a fountain with motion light and sculpture. The second park was park No.2, in which there are different styles of park construction: ways from different countries, the selected space was traditional Iranian architecture with a fountain and trees. The third one was park No.3, the park with modern environment and spaces, and included a fountain that moved according to music and lighting. The fourth park was park No.4, the park with combination of four elements: water, fire, earth, wind, the selected space was fountains squirting water from the ground up. 80 participant (55 males and 25 females) aged from 20-60 years participated in this experiment. Each person filled the questionnaire in the park he/she was in. Five-point semantic differential scale was considered to determine the relation between space details and adjectives (kansei words). Received data were analyzed by multivariate statistical technique (factor analysis using SPSS statics). Finally the results of this analysis are criteria as inspiration which can be used in future space designing for creating pleasant feeling in users.Keywords: environmental design, differential semantics, Kansei engineering, subjective preferences, space
Procedia PDF Downloads 4082524 Suicide Conceptualization in Adolescents through Semantic Networks
Authors: K. P. Valdés García, E. I. Rodríguez Fonseca, L. G. Juárez Cantú
Abstract:
Suicide is a global, multidimensional and dynamic problem of mental health, which requires a constant study for its understanding and prevention. When research of this phenomenon is done, it is necessary to consider the different characteristics it may have because of the individual and sociocultural variables, the importance of this consideration is related to the generation of effective treatments and interventions. Adolescents are a vulnerable population due to the characteristics of the development stage. The investigation was carried out with the objective of identifying and describing the conceptualization of adolescents of suicide, and in this process, we find possible differences between men and women. The study was carried out in Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico. The sample was composed of 418 volunteer students aged between 11 and 18 years. The ethical aspects of the research were reviewed and considered in all the processes of the investigation with the participants, their parents and the schools to which they belonged, psychological attention was offered to the participants and preventive workshops were carried in the educational institutions. Natural semantic networks were the instrument used, since this hybrid method allows to find and analyze the social concept of a phenomenon; in this case, the word suicide was used as an evocative stimulus and participants were asked to evoke at least five words and a maximum 10 that they thought were related to suicide, and then hierarchize them according to the closeness with the construct. The subsequent analysis was carried with Excel, yielding the semantic weights, affective loads and the distances between each of the semantic fields established according to the words reported by the subjects. The results showed similarities in the conceptualization of suicide in adolescents, men and women. Seven semantic fields were generated; the words were related in the discourse analysis: 1) death, 2) possible triggering factors, 3) associated moods, 4) methods used to carry it out, 5) psychological symptomatology that could affect, 6) words associated with a rejection of suicide, and finally, 7) specific objects to carry it out. One of the necessary aspects to consider in the investigations of complex issues such as suicide is to have a diversity of instruments and techniques that adjust to the characteristics of the population and that allow to understand the phenomena from the social constructs and not only theoretical. The constant study of suicide is a pressing need, the loss of a life from emotional difficulties that can be solved through psychiatry and psychological methods requires governments and professionals to pay attention and work with the risk population.Keywords: adolescents, psychological construct, semantic networks, suicide
Procedia PDF Downloads 1112523 Structural-Geotechnical Effects of the Foundation of a Medium-Height Structure
Authors: Valentina Rodas, Luis Almache
Abstract:
The interaction effects between the existing soil and the substructure of a 5-story building with an underground one were evaluated in such a way that the structural-geotechnical concepts were validated through the method of impedance factors with a program based on the method of the finite elements. The continuous wall-type foundation had a constant thickness and followed inclined and orthogonal directions, while the ground had homogeneous and medium-type characteristics. The soil considered was type C according to the Ecuadorian Construction Standard (NEC) and the corresponding foundation comprised a depth of 4.00 meters and a basement wall thickness of 40 centimeters. This project is part of a mid-rise building in the city of Azogues (Ecuador). The hypotheses raised responded to the objectives in such a way that the model implemented with springs had a variation with respect to the embedded base, obtaining conservative results.Keywords: interaction, soil, substructure, springs, effects, modeling , embedment
Procedia PDF Downloads 2352522 Sintering Properties of Mechanically Alloyed Ti-5Al-2.5Fe
Authors: Ridvan Yamanoglu, Erdinc Efendi, Ismail Daoud
Abstract:
In this study, Ti-5Al-2.5Fe alloy was prepared by powder metallurgy. The elemental titanium, aluminum, and iron powders were mechanically alloyed for 10 h in a vacuum atmosphere. A stainless steel jar and stainless steel balls were used for mechanical alloying. The alloyed powders were then sintered by vacuum hot pressing at 950 °C for a soaking time of 30 minutes. Pure titanium was also sintered at the same conditions for comparison of mechanical properties and microstructural behavior. The samples were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, XRD analysis, and optical microscopy. Results showed that, after mechanical alloying, a homogeneous distribution of the elements was obtained, and desired a-b structure was determined. Ti-5Al-2.5Fe alloy was successfully produced, and the alloy showed enhanced mechanical properties compared to the commercial pure titanium.Keywords: Ti5Al-2.5Fe, mechanical alloying, hot pressing, sintering
Procedia PDF Downloads 2822521 Evaluation of Marwit Rod El Leqah Quartz Deposits As A Strategic Source of High Purity Quartz
Authors: Suzan Sami Ibrahim, Mohamed Gad Shahien, Ali Quarny Seliem, Mostafa Ragab Abukhadra
Abstract:
Pegmatite quartz deposits of Marwit Rod El Leqah area classify as medium purity quartz with 99.575 % average SiO2 content and therefore do not match the requirements of high technical applications (99.8 % SiO2 for solar cells, 99.8% SiO2 for electronics). Petrographic field and petrographic investigations reveal that, the reduction of the silica content attributed mainly to impurities of iron oxide, muscovite, rutile, orthoclase, granitic rafts and fluid inclusions. Such impurities resulted in raising Fe2O3, Al2O3, MgO, CaO, K2O and Na2O relative to the silica content. Structural impurities are the main source of trace elements in the quartz samples.Keywords: High purity quartz, High-tech applications, solid impurities, structural impurities
Procedia PDF Downloads 5032520 The Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Organizational Performance
Authors: El Ghazi Safae, Cherkaoui Mounia
Abstract:
Within companies, emotions have been forgotten as key elements of successful management systems. Seen as factors which disturb judgment, make reckless acts or affect negatively decision-making. Since management systems were influenced by the Taylorist worker image, that made the work regular and plain, and considered employees as executing machines. However, recently, in globalized economy characterized by a variety of uncertainties, emotions are proved as useful elements, even necessary, to attend high-level management. The work of Elton Mayo and Kurt Lewin reveals the importance of emotions. Since then emotions start to attract considerable attention. These studies have shown that emotions influence, directly or indirectly, many organization processes. For example, the quality of interpersonal relationships, job satisfaction, absenteeism, stress, leadership, performance and team commitment. Emotions became fundamental and indispensable to individual yield and so on to management efficiency. The idea that a person potential is associated to Intellectual Intelligence, measured by the IQ as the main factor of social, professional and even sentimental success, was the main problematic that need to be questioned. The literature on emotional intelligence has made clear that success at work does not only depend on intellectual intelligence but also other factors. Several researches investigating emotional intelligence impact on performance showed that emotionally intelligent managers perform more, attain remarkable results, able to achieve organizational objectives, impact the mood of their subordinates and create a friendly work environment. An improvement in the emotional intelligence of managers is therefore linked to the professional development of the organization and not only to the personal development of the manager. In this context, it would be interesting to question the importance of emotional intelligence. Does it impact organizational performance? What is the importance of emotional intelligence and how it impacts organizational performance? The literature highlighted that measurement and conceptualization of emotional intelligence are difficult to define. Efforts to measure emotional intelligence have identified three models that are more prominent: the mixed model, the ability model, and the trait model. The first is considered as cognitive skill, the second relates to the mixing of emotional skills with personality-related aspects and the latter is intertwined with personality traits. But, despite strong claims about the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace, few studies have empirically examined the impact of emotional intelligence on organizational performance, because even though the concept of performance is at the heart of all evaluation processes of companies and organizations, we observe that performance remains a multidimensional concept and many authors insist about the vagueness that surrounds the concept. Given the above, this article provides an overview of the researches related to emotional intelligence, particularly focusing on studies that investigated the impact of emotional intelligence on organizational performance to contribute to the emotional intelligence literature and highlight its importance and show how it impacts companies’ performance.Keywords: emotions, performance, intelligence, firms
Procedia PDF Downloads 1092519 The Complete Modal Derivatives
Authors: Sebastian Andersen, Peter N. Poulsen
Abstract:
The use of basis projection in the structural dynamic analysis is frequently applied. The purpose of the method is to improve the computational efficiency, while maintaining a high solution accuracy, by projection the governing equations onto a small set of carefully selected basis vectors. The present work considers basis projection in kinematic nonlinear systems with a focus on two widely used basis vectors; the system mode shapes and their modal derivatives. Particularly the latter basis vectors are given special attention since only approximate modal derivatives have been used until now. In the present work the complete modal derivatives, derived from perturbation methods, are presented and compared to the previously applied approximate modal derivatives. The correctness of the complete modal derivatives is illustrated by use of an example of a harmonically loaded kinematic nonlinear structure modeled by beam elements.Keywords: basis projection, finite element method, kinematic nonlinearities, modal derivatives
Procedia PDF Downloads 2382518 Madame Bovary in Transit: from Novel to Graphic Novel
Authors: Hania Pasandi
Abstract:
Since its publication in 1856, Madame Bovary has established itself as one of the most adapted texts of French literature. Some eighteen film adaptations and twenty-seven rewritings of Madame Bovary in fiction to date shows a great enthusiasm for recreating Flaubert’s masterpiece in a variety of mediums. Posy Simmonds’ 1999 graphic novel, Gemma Bovery stands out among these adaptations as the graphic novel with its visual and narrative structure offers a new reading experience of Madame Bovary, while combining Emma Bovary’s elements with contemporary social, cultural, and artistic discourses. This paper studies the transposition of Flaubert’s Madame Bovary (1857) to late twentieth-century Britain in Posy Simmonds’ 1999 graphic novel, Gemma Bovery by exploring how it borrows the essential flaubertian themes, from its source text to incorporate it with contemporary cultural trends.Keywords: graphic novel, Gemma Bovery, Madame Bovary, transposition
Procedia PDF Downloads 1542517 The Impact of an Interactive E-Book on Mathematics Reading and Spatial Ability in Middle School Students
Authors: Abebayehu Yohannes, Hsiu-Ling Chen, Chiu-Chen Chang
Abstract:
Mathematics reading and spatial ability are important learning components in mathematics education. However, many students struggle to understand real-world problems and lack the spatial ability to form internal imagery. To cope with this problem, in this study, an interactive e-book was developed. The result indicated that both groups had a significant increase in the mathematics reading ability test, and a significant difference was observed in the overall mathematics reading score in favor of the experimental group. In addition, the interactive e-book learning mode had significant impacts on students’ spatial ability. It was also found that the richness of content with visual and interactive elements provided in the interactive e-book enhanced students’ satisfaction with the teaching material.Keywords: interactive e-books, spatial ability, mathematics reading, satisfaction, three view
Procedia PDF Downloads 1952516 Critical and Strategic Issues in Compensation, Staffing and Personnel Management in Nigeria
Authors: Shonuga Olajumoke Adedoyinsola
Abstract:
Staffing and Compensation are at the core of any employment exchange, and they serve as the defining characteristics of any employment relationship. Most organizations understand the benefits that a longer term approach to staff planning can bring and the answer to this problem lies not in trying to implement the traditional approach more effectively, but in implementing a completely different kind of process for strategic staffing. The study focuses on critical points of compensation, staffing and personnel management. The fundamentals of these programs include the elements of vision, potential, communication and motivation. The aim of the paper is to identify the most important attributes of compensation and incentives, staffing and personnel management. Research method is the analysis and synthesis of scientific literature, logical, comparative and graphic representation. On the basis of analysis, the author presents the models of these systems for positive employee attitudes and behaviors.Keywords: compensation, employees, incentives, staffing, personnel management
Procedia PDF Downloads 3012515 Efficiency Improvement of REV-Method for Calibration of Phased Array Antennas
Authors: Daniel Hristov
Abstract:
The paper describes the principle of operation, simulation and physical validation of method for simultaneous acquisition of gain and phase states of multiple antenna elements and the corresponding feed lines across a Phased Array Antenna (PAA). The derived values for gain and phase are used for PAA-calibration. The method utilizes the Rotating-Element Electric- Field Vector (REV) principle currently used for gain and phase state estimation of single antenna element across an active antenna aperture. A significant reduction of procedure execution time is achieved with simultaneous setting of different phase delays to multiple phase shifters, followed by a single power measurement. The initial gain and phase states are calculated using spectral and correlation analysis of the measured power series.Keywords: antenna, antenna arrays, calibration, phase measurement, power measurement
Procedia PDF Downloads 1402514 Mathematical Modeling of a Sub-Wet Bulb Temperature Evaporative Cooling Using Porous Ceramic Materials
Authors: Meryem Kanzari, Rabah Boukhanouf, Hatem G. Ibrahim
Abstract:
Indirect Evaporative Cooling process has the advantage of supplying cool air at constant moisture content. However, such system can only supply air at temperatures above wet bulb temperature. This paper presents a mathematical model for a sub-wet bulb temperature indirect evaporative cooling arrangement that can overcome this limitation and supply cool air at temperatures approaching dew point and without increasing its moisture content. In addition, the use of porous ceramics as wet media materials offers the advantage of integration into building elements. Results of the computer show that the proposed design is capable of cooling air to temperatures lower than the ambient wet bulb temperature and achieving wet bulb effectiveness of about 1.17.Keywords: indirect evaporative cooling, porous ceramic, sub-wet bulb temperature, mathematical modeling
Procedia PDF Downloads 2972513 Virtualization of Production Using Digital Twin Technology
Authors: Bohuslava Juhasova, Igor Halenar, Martin Juhas
Abstract:
The contribution deals with the current situation in modern manufacturing enterprises, which is affected by digital virtualization of different parts of the production process. The overview part of this article points to the fact, that wide informatization of all areas causes substitution of real elements and relationships between them with their digital, often virtual images, in real practice. Key characteristics of the systems implemented using digital twin technology along with essential conditions for intelligent products deployment were identified across many published studies. The goal was to propose a template for the production system realization using digital twin technology as a supplement to standardized concepts for Industry 4.0. The main resulting idea leads to the statement that the current trend of implementation of the new technologies and ways of communication between industrial facilities erases the boundaries between the real environment and the virtual world.Keywords: communication, digital twin, Industry 4.0, simulation, virtualization
Procedia PDF Downloads 2522512 Electrokinetic Remediation of Uranium Contaminated Soil by Ion Exchange Membranes
Authors: Z. H. Shi, T. J. Dou, H. Zhang, H. X. Huang, N. Zeng
Abstract:
The contamination of significant quantities of soils and sediments with uranium and other actinide elements as a result of nuclear activity poses many environmental risks. The electrokinetic process is one of the most promising remediation techniques for sludge, sediment, and saturated or unsaturated soils contaminated with heavy metals and radionuclides. However, secondary waste is a major concern for soil contaminated with nuclides. To minimize the generation of secondary wastes, this study used the anion and cation exchange membranes to improve the performance of the experimental apparatus. Remediation experiments of uranium-contaminated soil were performed with different agents. The results show that using acetic acid and EDTA as chelating agents clearly enhances the migration ability of the uranium. The ion exchange membranes (IEMs) used in the experiments not only reduce secondary wastes, but also, keep the soil pH stable.Keywords: electrokinetic remediation, ion exchange membranes, soil, uranium
Procedia PDF Downloads 3552511 Biocompatibility of Calcium Phosphate Coatings With Different Crystallinity Deposited by Sputtering
Authors: Ekaterina S. Marchenko, Gulsharat A. Baigonakova, Kirill M. Dubovikov, Igor A. Khlusov
Abstract:
NiTi alloys combine biomechanical and biochemical properties. This makes them a perfect candidate for medical applications. However, there is a serious problem with these alloys, such as the release of Ni from the matrix. Ni ions are known to be toxic to living tissues and leach from the matrix into the surrounding implant tissues due to corrosion after prolonged use. To prevent the release of Ni ions, corrosive strong coatings are usually used. Titanium nitride-based coatings are perfect corrosion inhibitors and also have good bioactive properties. However, there is an opportunity to improve the biochemical compatibility of the surface by depositing another layer. This layer can consist of elements such as calcium and phosphorus. The Ca and P ions form different calcium phosphate phases, which are present in the mineral part of human bones. We therefore believe that these elements must promote osteogenesis and osteointegration. In view of the above, the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of crystallinity on the biocompatibility of a two-layer coating deposited on NiTi substrate by sputtering. The first step of the research, apart from the NiTi polishing, is the layer-by-layer deposition of Ti-Ni-Ti by magnetron sputtering and the subsequent synthesis of this composite in an N atmosphere at 900 °C. The total thickness of the corrosion resistant layer is 150 nm. Plasma assisted RF sputtering was then used to deposit a bioactive film on the titanium nitride layer. A Ca-P powder target was used to obtain such a film. We deposited three types of Ca-P layers with different crystallinity and compared them in terms of cytotoxicity. One group of samples had no Ca-P coating and was used as a control. We obtained different crystallinity by varying the sputtering parameters such as bias voltage, plasma source current and pressure. XRD analysis showed that all coatings are calcium phosphate, but the sample obtained at maximum bias and plasma source current and minimum pressure has the most intense peaks from the coating phase. SEM and EDS showed that all three coatings have a homogeneous and dense structure without cracks and consist of calcium, phosphorus and oxygen. Cytotoxic tests carried out on three types of samples with Ca-P coatings and a control group showed that the control sample and the sample with Ca-P coating obtained at maximum bias voltage and plasma source current and minimum pressure had the lowest number of dead cells on the surface, around 11 ± 4%. Two other types of samples with Ca-P coating have 40 ± 9% and 21 ± 7% dead cells on the surface. It can therefore be concluded that these two sputtering modes have a negative effect on the corrosion resistance of the whole samples. The third sputtering mode does not affect the corrosion resistance and has the same level of cytotoxicity as the control. It can be concluded that the most suitable sputtering mode is the third with maximum bias voltage and plasma source current and minimum pressure.Keywords: calcium phosphate coating, cytotoxicity, NiTi alloy, two-layer coating
Procedia PDF Downloads 682510 Fluorescence-Based Biosensor for Dopamine Detection Using Quantum Dots
Authors: Sylwia Krawiec, Joanna Cabaj, Karol Malecha
Abstract:
Nowadays, progress in the field of the analytical methods is of great interest for reliable biological research and medical diagnostics. Classical techniques of chemical analysis, despite many advantages, do not permit to obtain immediate results or automatization of measurements. Chemical sensors have displaced the conventional analytical methods - sensors combine precision, sensitivity, fast response and the possibility of continuous-monitoring. Biosensor is a chemical sensor, which except of conventer also possess a biologically active material, which is the basis for the detection of specific chemicals in the sample. Each biosensor device mainly consists of two elements: a sensitive element, where is recognition of receptor-analyte, and a transducer element which receives the signal and converts it into a measurable signal. Through these two elements biosensors can be divided in two categories: due to the recognition element (e.g immunosensor) and due to the transducer (e.g optical sensor). Working of optical sensor is based on measurements of quantitative changes of parameters characterizing light radiation. The most often analyzed parameters include: amplitude (intensity), frequency or polarization. Changes in the optical properties one of the compound which reacts with biological material coated on the sensor is analyzed by a direct method, in an indirect method indicators are used, which changes the optical properties due to the transformation of the testing species. The most commonly used dyes in this method are: small molecules with an aromatic ring, like rhodamine, fluorescent proteins, for example green fluorescent protein (GFP), or nanoparticles such as quantum dots (QDs). Quantum dots have, in comparison with organic dyes, much better photoluminescent properties, better bioavailability and chemical inertness. These are semiconductor nanocrystals size of 2-10 nm. This very limited number of atoms and the ‘nano’-size gives QDs these highly fluorescent properties. Rapid and sensitive detection of dopamine is extremely important in modern medicine. Dopamine is very important neurotransmitter, which mainly occurs in the brain and central nervous system of mammals. Dopamine is responsible for the transmission information of moving through the nervous system and plays an important role in processes of learning or memory. Detection of dopamine is significant for diseases associated with the central nervous system such as Parkinson or schizophrenia. In developed optical biosensor for detection of dopamine, are used graphene quantum dots (GQDs). In such sensor dopamine molecules coats the GQD surface - in result occurs quenching of fluorescence due to Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET). Changes in fluorescence correspond to specific concentrations of the neurotransmitter in tested sample, so it is possible to accurately determine the concentration of dopamine in the sample.Keywords: biosensor, dopamine, fluorescence, quantum dots
Procedia PDF Downloads 3682509 Procedure for Recommendation of Archival Documents
Authors: Marlon J. Remedios, Maria T. Morell, Jesse D. Cano
Abstract:
Diffusion and accessibility of historical collections is one of the main objectives of the institutions that aim to safeguard archival documents (General Archives). Several countries have Web applications that try to make accessible and public the large number of documents that they guard. Each of these sites has a set of features in order to facilitate access, navigability, and search for information. Different sources of information include Recommender Systems as a way of customizing content. This paper aims at describing a process for the production of archival documents relevant to the user. To comply with this, the characteristics ruling archival description, elements and main techniques that establishes the design of Recommender Systems, a set of rules to follow, and how these rules operate and the way in which take advantage of the domain knowledge are discussed. Finally, relevant issues are discussed in the design of the proposed tests and the results obtained are shown.Keywords: archival document, recommender system, procedure, information management
Procedia PDF Downloads 5212508 Deployment of Matrix Transpose in Digital Image Encryption
Authors: Okike Benjamin, Garba E J. D.
Abstract:
Encryption is used to conceal information from prying eyes. Presently, information and data encryption are common due to the volume of data and information in transit across the globe on daily basis. Image encryption is yet to receive the attention of the researchers as deserved. In other words, video and multimedia documents are exposed to unauthorized accessors. The authors propose image encryption using matrix transpose. An algorithm that would allow image encryption is developed. In this proposed image encryption technique, the image to be encrypted is split into parts based on the image size. Each part is encrypted separately using matrix transpose. The actual encryption is on the picture elements (pixel) that make up the image. After encrypting each part of the image, the positions of the encrypted images are swapped before transmission of the image can take place. Swapping the positions of the images is carried out to make the encrypted image more robust for any cryptanalyst to decrypt.Keywords: image encryption, matrices, pixel, matrix transpose
Procedia PDF Downloads 4242507 Structural Analysis and Evolution of 18th Century Ottoman Imperial Mosques (1750-1799) in Comparison with the Classical Period Examples
Authors: U. Demir
Abstract:
18th century which is the period of 'change' in the Ottoman Empire, affects the architecture as well, where the Classical period is left behind, architecture is differentiated in the form language. This change is especially noticeable in monumental buildings and thus manifested itself in the mosques. But, is it possible to talk about the structural context of the 'change' which has been occurred in decoration? The aim of this study is to investigate the changes and classical relations of the 18th century mosques through plan schedules and structure systems. This study focuses on the monumental mosques constructed during the reign of the three sultans who ruled in the second half of the century (Mustafa the 3rd 1757-1774, Abdülhamid the 1st 1774-1789 and Selim the 3rd). According to their construction years these are 'Ayazma, Laleli, Zeyneb Sultan, Fatih, Beylerbeyi, Şebsefa Kadın, Eyüb Sultan, Mihrişah Valide Sultan and Üsküdar-Selimiye' mosques. As a plan scheme, four mosques have a square or close to a rectangular square scheme, while the others have a rectangle scheme and showing the longitudinal development of the mihrab axis. This situation is widespread throughout the period. In addition to the longitudinal development plan, which is the general characteristic of the 18th century mosques, the use of the classical plan schemes continued in the same direction. Spatialization of the mihrab area was applied to the five mosques while other mosques were applied as niches on the wall surface. This situation is widespread in the period of the second half of the century. In the classical period, the lodges may be located at the back of the mosques interior, not interfering with the main worship area. In the period, the lodges were withdrawn from the main worship area. They are separated from the main interior with their own structural and covering systems. The plans seem to be formed as a result of the addition of lodge parts to the northern part of the Classical period mosques. The 18th century mosques are the constructions where the change of the architectural language and style can be observed easily. This change and the break from the classical period manifest themselves quickly in the structural elements, wall surface decorations, pencil work designs, small scale decor elements, motifs. The speed and intensity of change in the decor does not occur the same as in structural context. The mosque construction rules from the traditional and classical era still continues in the century. While some mosque structures have a plan which is inherited from the classical successor, some of were constructed with the same classical period rules. Nonetheless, the location and transformation of the lodges, which are affecting the interior design, are noteworthy. They provide a significant transition on the way to the new language of the mosque design that will be experienced in the next century. It is intended to draw attention to the structural evolution of the 18th century Ottoman architecture through the royal mosques within the scope of this conference.Keywords: mosque structure, Ottoman architecture, structural evolution, 18th century architecture
Procedia PDF Downloads 2042506 Cocoa Stimulates the Production Bioactive Components of Lactobacillus Casei and Competitively Excludes Foodborne Pathogens
Authors: Mengfei Peng, Serajus Salaheen, Debabrata Biswas
Abstract:
Lactobacillus casei found in the human intestine and mouth is commonly applied for dairy production. Recently, it was found that some byproducts produced by Lactobacillus exhibited antimicrobial activities against multiple bacteria. Meanwhile, introduction of prebiotic-like foods (e.g. cocoa) or probiotics or both of them as food supplements in human diets as well as in farm animal feeds is believed to be an effective ways in control/reduce the colonization of foodborne bacterial pathogens infection in the gut environment. We hypothesized that cocoa may stimulate the production antimicrobial components of Lactobacillus casei and may potentially inhibit/reduce the colonization and infection of foodborne bacterial pathogens in the gut. Mixed culture of L. casei (LC) with enterohemorrhagic E. coli EDL933 (EHEC), Salmonella Typhimurium LT2 (ST), or Listeria monocytogenes LM2 (LM) showed that LC could competitively exclude (100%) them within 72 h. Further, investigation of cell-free culture supernatant (CFCS) revealed that the antimicrobial effects of LC came from CFCS. CFCS of LC eliminated (100%) EHEC, ST, and LM within 72 h, and 2 h CFCS treatment increased the hydrophobicity of EHEC (5.10 folds), ST (8.48 folds), and LM (2.03 folds). In addition, LC cells exhibited more inhibitive effects than CFCS on cell adhesive and invasive activities of EHEC (52.14% & 90.45%), ST (66.89% & 93.83%), and LM (61.10% & 83.40%). Two clusters of poly-peptides in CFCS were identified by SDS-PAGE, the molecular weights of which are ≈5 KD and 40-45 KD. LC CFCS with overnight growth in the presence of 3% strengthened all of the antimicrobial activities (growth inhibition, outer membrane disruption, and cell infective ability reduction). Liquid chromatography/Mass spectrometry analysis detected 5 unique components in class of flavonoids in LC CFCS with overnight 3% cocoa supplement. Furthermore, qPCR results showed that CFCSs up-regulated the expression level of genes responsible for flagellin synthesis and motility, but down-regulated genes for specific binding and invasion-associated proteins synthesis. The stimulatory effects of cocoa in producing bioactive components of probiotics may aid prevention of foodborne illness caused by major foodborne enteric bacterial pathogens.Keywords: foodborne pathogens, probiotics, prebiotics, pathogen exclusion
Procedia PDF Downloads 4392505 Labour-saving Construction Using Buildability Framework through Strengthening Designers in Delivering More Buildable Designs
Authors: Muhammad Lawal A., Abdullateef Abdulkarim Jimoh
Abstract:
This study is to appraise the labour-saving construction methods achievable using a buildability framework through an improved design system. Adoption of labour-efficient technology and construction techniques will be necessary to supplement good buildable designs. Increased usage of prefabricated, modular, and standardized construction components, simplicity in the design, and the number of integrated elements all work to advance buildable design. The objectives of the study include `determining a more efficient buildability framework for designers to achieve labour-saving construction’. 20 completed building projects in Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria, is used as a case study to buttress the proposition that `a more buildable design using buildability frame result in labour-saving in construction adopting a Singapore study approach.Keywords: buildability framework, buildable designs, construction, labour-saving construction
Procedia PDF Downloads 1052504 Chemical Analysis of Particulate Matter (PM₂.₅) and Volatile Organic Compound Contaminants
Authors: S. Ebadzadsahraei, H. Kazemian
Abstract:
The main objective of this research was to measure particulate matter (PM₂.₅) and Volatile Organic Compound (VOCs) as two classes of air pollutants, at Prince George (PG) neighborhood in warm and cold seasons. To fulfill this objective, analytical protocols were developed for accurate sampling and measurement of the targeted air pollutants. PM₂.₅ samples were analyzed for their chemical composition (i.e., toxic trace elements) in order to assess their potential source of emission. The City of Prince George, widely known as the capital of northern British Columbia (BC), Canada, has been dealing with air pollution challenges for a long time. The city has several local industries including pulp mills, a refinery, and a couple of asphalt plants that are the primary contributors of industrial VOCs. In this research project, which is the first study of this kind in this region it measures physical and chemical properties of particulate air pollutants (PM₂.₅) at the city neighborhood. Furthermore, this study quantifies the percentage of VOCs at the city air samples. One of the outcomes of this project is updated data about PM₂.₅ and VOCs inventory in the selected neighborhoods. For examining PM₂.₅ chemical composition, an elemental analysis methodology was developed to measure major trace elements including but not limited to mercury and lead. The toxicity of inhaled particulates depends on both their physical and chemical properties; thus, an understanding of aerosol properties is essential for the evaluation of such hazards, and the treatment of such respiratory and other related diseases. Mixed cellulose ester (MCE) filters were selected for this research as a suitable filter for PM₂.₅ air sampling. Chemical analyses were conducted using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) for elemental analysis. VOCs measurement of the air samples was performed using a Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) allowing for quantitative measurement of VOC molecules in sub-ppb levels. In this study, sorbent tube (Anasorb CSC, Coconut Charcoal), 6 x 70-mm size, 2 sections, 50/100 mg sorbent, 20/40 mesh was used for VOCs air sampling followed by using solvent extraction and solid-phase micro extraction (SPME) techniques to prepare samples for measuring by a GC-MS/FID instrument. Air sampling for both PM₂.₅ and VOC were conducted in summer and winter seasons for comparison. Average concentrations of PM₂.₅ are very different between wildfire and daily samples. At wildfire time average of concentration is 83.0 μg/m³ and daily samples are 23.7 μg/m³. Also, higher concentrations of iron, nickel and manganese found at all samples and mercury element is found in some samples. It is able to stay too high doses negative effects.Keywords: air pollutants, chemical analysis, particulate matter (PM₂.₅), volatile organic compound, VOCs
Procedia PDF Downloads 1442503 Elaboration and Characterization of CdxZn1-XS Thin Films Deposed by Chemical Bath Deposition
Authors: Zellagui Rahima, Chaumont Denis, Boughelout Abderrahman, Adnane Mohamed
Abstract:
Thin films of CdxZn1-xS were deposed by chemical bath deposition on glass substrates for photovoltaic applications. The thin films CdZnS were synthesized by chemical bath (CBD) with different deposition protocols for optimized the parameter of deposition as the temperature, time of deposition, concentrations of ion and pH. Surface morphology, optical and chemical composition properties of thin film CdZnS were investigated by SEM, EDAX, spectrophotometer. The transmittance is 80% in visible region 300 nm – 1000 nm; it has been observed in that films the grain size is between 50nm and 100nm measured by SEM image and we also note that the shape of particle is changing with the change in concentration. This result favors of application these films in solar cells; the chemical analysis with EDAX gives information about the presence of Cd, Zn and S elements and investigates the stoichiometry.Keywords: thin film, solar cells, transmition, cdzns
Procedia PDF Downloads 2642502 3D Electrode Carrier and its Implications on Retinal Implants
Authors: Diego Luján Villarreal
Abstract:
Retinal prosthetic devices aim to repair some vision in visual impairment patients by stimulating electrically neural cells in the visual system. In this study, the 3D linear electrode carrier is presented. A simulation framework was developed by placing the 3D carrier 1 mm away from the fovea center at the highest-density cell. Cell stimulation is verified in COMSOL Multiphysics by developing a 3D computational model which includes the relevant retinal interface elements and dynamics of the voltage-gated ionic channels. Current distribution resulting from low threshold amplitudes produces a small volume equivalent to the volume confined by individual cells at the highest-density cell using small-sized electrodes. Delicate retinal tissue is protected by excessive charge densityKeywords: retinal prosthetic devices, visual devices, retinal implants., visual prosthetic devices
Procedia PDF Downloads 1162501 Numerical Simulation of Two-Dimensional Porous Cylinder Flow in In-Line Arrangement
Authors: Hamad Alhajeri, Abdulrahman Almutairi, A. H. Alenezi, M. H. Alhajeri, Ayedh Alajmi
Abstract:
The flow around three porous cylinders in inline arrangement is investigated in this paper computationally using the commercial code FLUENT. The arrangement generally operates with the dirty gases passing through the porous cylinders, the particulate material being deposited on the outside of the cylinders. However, in a combined cycle power plant, filtration is required to allow the hot exhaust gases to be fed to a turbine without causing any physical damage to the turbine blades. Three cylinder elements are placed in a two-dimensional rectangle duct with fixed face velocity and varying the velocity ratio between the approach and face velocity. Particle trajectories are obtained for a number of particle diameters and different inlet (approach) velocity to face filtration velocity ratios to investigate the behavior of particles around the cylinder.Keywords: porous cylinders, CFD, fluid flow, filtration
Procedia PDF Downloads 4872500 Effect of Different Feed Composition on the Growth Performance in Early Weaned Piglets
Authors: Obuzor Eze Obuzor, Ekpoke Okurube Sliver
Abstract:
The study was carried out at Debee farms at Ahoada West Local Government area, Rivers State, Nigeria. To evaluate the impact of two different cost-effective available feed composition on growth performance of weaned piglets. Thirty weaned uncontrolled cross bred (Large white x pietrain) piglets of average initial weight of 3.04 Kg weaned at 30days were assigned to three dietary treatments, comprising three replicates of 10 weaned piglets each, piglets were kept at 7 °C in different pens with dimensions of 4.50 × 4.50 m. The design of the experiment was completely randomized design, data from the study were subjected to one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and significant means were separated using Duncan's Multiple Range Test using Statistical Analysis System (SAS) software for windows (2 0 0 3), statistical significance was assessed at P < 0.05 (95% confidence interval) while survival rate was calculated using simple percentage. A standard diet was prepared to meet the nutrient requirements of weaned piglets at (20.8% crude protein). The three diets were fed to the animals in concrete feeding trough, control diet (C) had soybean meal while first treatment had spent grain (T1) and the second treatment had wheat offal (T2) respectively. The experiment was partitioned into four weeks periods (days 1-7, 8-14, 15-21 and 22-28). Feed and water were given unrestrictedly throughout the period of the experiment. The feed intake and weights of the pigs were recorded on weekly basis. Feed conversion ratio and daily weight gain were calculated and the study lasted for four weeks. There was no significant (P>0.05) effect of diet on survival rate, final body weight, average daily weight gain, daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio. The overall performance showed that treatment one (T1) had survival rate (93%), improved daily weight gain (36.21 g), average daily feed intake (120.14 g) and had the best feed conversion ratio (0.29) similar high mean value with the control while treatment two (T2) had lowest and negative response to all parameters. It could be concluded that feed formulated with spent grain is cheaper than control (soybean meal) and also improved the growth performance of weaned piglets.Keywords: piglets, weaning, feed conversions ratio, daily weight gain
Procedia PDF Downloads 682499 A Novel Approach to Design of EDDR Architecture for High Speed Motion Estimation Testing Applications
Authors: T. Gangadhararao, K. Krishna Kishore
Abstract:
Motion Estimation (ME) plays a critical role in a video coder, testing such a module is of priority concern. While focusing on the testing of ME in a video coding system, this work presents an error detection and data recovery (EDDR) design, based on the residue-and-quotient (RQ) code, to embed into ME for video coding testing applications. An error in processing Elements (PEs), i.e. key components of a ME, can be detected and recovered effectively by using the proposed EDDR design. The proposed EDDR design for ME testing can detect errors and recover data with an acceptable area overhead and timing penalty.Keywords: area overhead, data recovery, error detection, motion estimation, reliability, residue-and-quotient (RQ) code
Procedia PDF Downloads 432