Developing Pavement Performance Functions for Palestinian Roadway Network

Osama Abaza*, Lana Shahein**

almabaza@hotmail.com

* Civil Engineering Department, An-Najah National University. **Engineer. Nablus, Palestine

Received : 20-03-2006 , Accepted : 04-04-2007

Language: English

Abstract

The measurement and prediction of pavement performance condition is an essential component of any pavement management system. In this paper, performance evaluation method for Palestinian roadways was developed. Estimation of the flexible pavement performance life for maintenance and rehabilitation was presented. Data for model development was collected based on the pavement evaluation methods issued by the World Bank for developing countries. The performance model developed in this paper was based on evaluation of various deterministic and probabilistic models using surveyed data for arterials and village access roads in Palestine. The pavement performance models were developed based on calibration of surveyed pavement condition rating index using logistic growth model, and applying regression analysis. The results of the analysis showed that the logistic growth model performed well in fitting the calibrated data for the different roadways considered in this study and the Markov model fitted well for the overlaid arterials. The reconstructed arterial roadway system had longer average performance life than the overlaid arterials. Village access roadway system showed the same behavior.

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The Hamilton-Jacobi Treatment of Complex Fields as Constrained Systems

The Hamilton-Jacobi Treatment of Complex Fields as Constrained Systems

Tamer Eleyan

tamer_eleyan@hotmail.com

Department of Mathematics, Al-Quds Open University, Gaza, Palestine

Received : 12-06-2006 , Accepted : 04-04-2007

Language: English

Abstract

The complex scalar field is treated as a constrained system using the Hamilton-Jacobi approach. The reduced phase space Hamiltonian density is obtained without introducing Lagrange multipliers and without any additional gauge fixing condition. The quantization of this system is also discussed.

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Effect of Scarification, Gibberellic acid and Stratification on Seed Germination of Three Pistacia Species

Effect of Scarification, Gibberellic acid and Stratification on Seed Germination of Three Pistacia Species

Hassan Abu-Qaoud

hassan@najah.edu

Department of Plant Production & Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 28-01-2007 , Accepted : 11-09-2005

Language: English

Abstract

Germinability of P. atlantica Desf., P. palaestina (Bioss) Post. and P. lentiscus L. seeds as influenced by various treatments was investigated. This included four treatments: Acid scarification for 15 minutes, soaking of acid scarified seeds in 1000 ppm GA3 for 24 hours, stratification of seeds at 5Co for 30 days and control (untreated seeds). Significantly, the highest germination (60%) was obtained for P. palaestina acid scarified plus cold stratified seeds over the control of the three Pistacia species (15, 10, 0%), this percentage (60) was on the same level of significance with the other Pistacia species. Scarifies seeds of P. lentiscus resulted in 13.3% germination, scarified plus GA3 soak of P. lentiscus and P. atlantica Desf. (34, 39.9%), and scarified plus cold stratified P. lentiscus (32%) seeds. Early seed germination was obtained with seeds of P. lentiscus after one week of incubation with scarified plus GA3 (6%) and scarified seeds of P. palaestina (5%), other treated seeds of the three species started germination after two weeks. P. palaestina seeds continued with the highest germination percentage thereafter. Significantly, the longest mean time to complete germination (MTG) was obtained from the control of the three Pistacia species (27.94, 24.50, 30. 04), Scarified P. atlantica (25.84), and scarified plus GA3 soak of P. atlantica (26.25) as compared with the other treatments for the three Pistacia species which were all in the same level of significance.

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Zero Insertive Group Rings

Zero Insertive Group Rings

Amani Sbeih

amany_dms@yahoo.com

Received : 04-06-2007 , Accepted : 12-05-2008

Language: Arabic

Abstract

The aim of this research is to find the necessary and sufficient conditions on a ring A and a group G for which the group ring A[G] to be a zero insertive ring (zi-ring), a zero commutative ring (zc-ring), and a duo- ring. In this paper, we found that the necessary conditions for A[G] to be zi-ring are that G must be Hamiltonian group and A is zi-ring whenever G is a periodic group. Also similar results for A[G] to be zc-ring and duo-ring are given.

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Simplex Linear Codes Over the Ring F2 + vF2

Simplex Linear Codes Over the Ring F2 + vF2

Mohammed AL-Ashker, Ibtisam Isleem

mashker@mail.iugaza.edu

Mathematics Department. Faculty of Science. Islamic University. Gaza, Palestine

Received : 21-02-2007 , Accepted : 28-02-2008

Language: English

Abstract

In this paper, we construct simplex linear codes over the ring of types , where and . We also determine some of their properties. These codes are extension and generalization of simplex codes over the rings .

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The Effect of Using Citrus Wood Charcoal in Broiler Rations on the Performance of Broilers

The Effect of Using Citrus Wood Charcoal in Broiler Rations on the Performance of Broilers

Baha Eddin Abu Bakr

ba.bakr@hotmail.com

Department of Animal Production. Faculty of Agriculture. An-Najah National University. Nablus. Palestine

Received : 25-03-2007 , Accepted : 27-11-2007

Language: English

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of feeding citrus wood charcoal on the performance, feed intake and feed conversion efficiency of broiler chicks. A total of 120 broilers of Habbard strain at 22 days of age were used in the experiment and were divided into four groups of 30 birds in each. Each group was divided into five replicates with six chicks per replicate. Birds in the experimental groups were fed citrus wood charcoal at rates of 0, 2,4 and 8% of the ration DM in replacement of yellow corn. The results showed that inclusion of citrus wood charcoal at rate of 2% had an effect on body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion efficiency. The results indicated that the effect of citrus charcoal is an age dependent as it had no effect at ages of more than 29 days. However, inclusion of citrus wood charcoal increased birds abdomen fat.

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Hydrostatic Stress Effect on the Optical Performance and the Stress Sensitivity of Optical Nonlinear Waveguide

Hydrostatic Stress Effect on the Optical Performance and the Stress Sensitivity of Optical Nonlinear Waveguide

Hala El-Khozondar

hkhozondar@mail.iugaza.edu

Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Faculty of Engineering. Islamic University. Gaza. Palestine.

Received : 19-02-2007 , Accepted : 27-11-2007

Language: English

Abstract

Sensitivity of optical parameters is a significant topic in developing optoelectronic devices. The stress sensitivity of nonlinear optical waveguides is closely related to hydrostatic stress. The hydrostatic stress can cause anisotropic and inhomogeneous distribution of the refractive index. In this paper analytical and numerical calculations are performed to study the effect of hydrostatic stress on the sensitivity of nonlinear optical waveguide sensors. The optical performance of the waveguide sensors under various hydrostatic stress states is also investigated. Transverse magnetic modes (TM) are considered in addition to transverse electric modes (TE) to study anisotropy. It is found that the value of the hydrostatic stress can change the value of the cutoff thickness. These changes may induce multimode. Moreover, the hydrostatic stresses influence the values of the stress sensitivity of the waveguide sensors and present anisotropic behavior to the system.

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Pharmacotherapeutic Implications and Prescribing Pattern of ‎Benzodiazepines (BZD) by Psychiatrists and Neurologists

Pharmacotherapeutic Implications and Prescribing Pattern of ‎Benzodiazepines (BZD) by Psychiatrists and Neurologists

Waleed Sweileh, Nidal Jaradat

waleedsweileh@najah.edu, nidaljaradat@najah.edu

College of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.‎

Received : 30-06-2003 , Accepted : 02-03-2004

Language: English

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore and investigate benzodiazepine (BZD) prescribing pattern by neurologists and psychiatrists. Randomly selected five hundred and five neurologists and psychiatrists prescriptions were collected throughout West-Bank and analyzed using SPSS 10 for windows. Approximately half of the prescriptions contain BZD with alprozolam being the most commonly prescribed BZD followed by clonazepam. More than half of the BZD prescriptions were missing important patient and dispensing information. Gender of the patient and physician’s specialty were not a determining factor in choosing or prescribing BZD. Antidepressants were commonly co-prescribed with BZD (57%). BZD were more commonly co-prescribed with tricylic antidepressants (TCA) antidepressants than selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Approximately 20% of antipsychotic prescriptions contained BZD especially clonazepam. In conclusion, although our study is not based on complete clinical investigation of patients disease and drug history, it is clear that there is some irrational BZD prescribing practices based on the general requirements for BZD prescriptions.

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Epidimiology of Aerobic Bacterial Infections among IUD (Intrauterine ‎Device) Users in the Northern West Bank ‎

Epidimiology of Aerobic Bacterial Infections among IUD (Intrauterine ‎Device) Users in the Northern West Bank ‎

Samar Ghazal*, Mohammed Musmar*, Mariam AL-Tell**‎

smusmar@hotmail.com

‎*Faculty of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.‎ ‎**UNICEF Office, Nablus, Palestine‎

Received : 07-06-2003 , Accepted : 02-03-2004

Language: English

Abstract

Intra uterine device (IUD) is the most popular method of contraception among Palestinian women. It is one of the very effective contraceptive methods with very small failure rate. Infection has been the main problem that faces women using IUD all over the world. The aim of this study is to explore the epidemiological pattern of aerobic bacterial infections among IUD users in Northern West Bank /Palestine. A study sample included two hundred women (134 IUD users and 66 non-IUD users) from MOH (Ministry of Health) FP (family planning) clinics. These women were randomly selected, interviewed, then cervical swabs were collected and cultured for aerobic bacteria, all data were analyzed using SPSS software. The study results showed overall significant higher rate of isolated bacteria among IUD users compared to non-users (P value <> 0.05). More than 50% of the positive culture results were predominant bacteria, and some 40% were potentially pathogenic. ? Hemolytic streptococcus was the most frequent of the former and E. Coli of the latter. Overall the study results were consistent with the current literature.

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The Population Dynamics of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly,‎‏ ‏Ceratitis capitata Wied. Diptera: Tephritidae‎‏ ‏in Some Fruit ‎Orchards in Gaza Strip

The Population Dynamics of the Mediterranean Fruit Fly,‎‏ ‏Ceratitis capitata Wied. Diptera: Tephritidae‎‏ ‏in Some Fruit ‎Orchards in Gaza Strip

Ahmad Saleh*, Mohammad El-Hamalawii**‎

assaleh45@yahoo.com

‎*Department of Plant Production & Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, ‎ Al Azhar University, Gaza, **Ministry of Agriculture, Gaza, Palestine‎

Received : 25-05-2004 , Accepted : 31-10-2004

Language: English

Abstract

A field study was carried out on the population dynamics of Medfly Ceratitis capitata Wied. males in three governorates groves of Gaza Strip (North, Gaza and Middle). Forty two orchards of Valencia orange as host plants of the fruit fly, thirty one orchards of olive as nonhost plants and sixteen backyards as urban area representing three different ecological environments of the fly, were chosen during two successive growing seasons. During the first growing season (2002), the grand mean of captured males/trap/day (CTD) of C. capitata for all inspection dates were: 1.99, 1.19, 1.2, 1.67, 1.35, 0.93 and 0.94 in Valencia orchards, North, Gaza, Dair Al Balah zone, total area, olive orchards and backyards, respectively. In 2003, the CTD for the above mentioned sites were 3.26, 1.12, 1.99, 1.81, 0.93, 1.03, and 1.02, respectively. Mean percentages of C.capitata host fruit infestations were 12.5-35.1% in collected samples during two successive seasons. All the sites contained mixed host plants of citrus, stone and pome fruits, guava, figs and other host fruits. More than two population peaks at the fruit ripening period of Valencia orange (April-June), peach, fig, guava (June-August) and Shammoty orange, grapefruit, guava, clementine (November-December) were obtained. The Medfly activity continued in most of the season, but decrease to a very low level in all studied locations during early spring months (February -March), due to the absence of host fruits and unfavorable climatic conditions. There was relationship between the average daily temperatures and daily activity period of the insect during summer seasons, as the traps captured a greater number of males at moderate temperatures. The mean number of CTD was significantly different in all 36 dates of inspection in each season for the three governorates and in three ecological environments (Valencia orange, olive orchards and backyards) of C.capitata during 2002 and 2003 seasons. In the same, time the means CTD,s were not significantly different among the three governorates. Results obtained could be exploited in management of this insect pest especially, in its control programs

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Polaronic Donor in a Strictly Two-Dimensional ‎ Quantum Well

Polaronic Donor in a Strictly Two-Dimensional ‎ Quantum Well

Bassam Saqqa

bsaqqa@mail.iugaza.edu

Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Islamic University, Gaza, Palestine‎

Received : 24-04-2004 , Accepted : 31-10-2004

Language: English

Abstract

The problem of a polaronic donor in a strictly two-dimensional quantum well is studied using the variational approach. The approach covers the overall range of the electron-phonon coupling and the Coulomb binding strengths. The energy, the number of phonons around the electron, and the size of the polaron are calculated for the ground, and for the first two excited states. It is observed that the polaronic effects become more pronounced for strong Coulomb fields. The size of the polaron is found to be mainly dependent on the polaronic field, as the Coulomb field becomes weak.

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Quasi Centralizers and Inner Derivations in a Closed Ideal ‎of a Complex Banach Algebra

Quasi Centralizers and Inner Derivations in a Closed Ideal ‎of a Complex Banach Algebra

As'ad Y. As'ad

aasad@mail.iugaza.edu

Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, Islamic University, ‎Gaza, Palestine.‎

Received : 03-05-2003 , Accepted : 31-08-2004

Language: English

Abstract

In this paper we show that, for an ideal J of a unital complex Banach algebra A, we have (i) under certain conditions the ? -quasi centralizer, the quasi centralizer, and the centralizer of J are all identical, and so they are subsets of the ? -quasi centralizer of J. (ii) If J is closed and a is a quasi centralizer element of J, then DaJ, a restriction of the inner derivation of a to J is topologically nilpotent. (iii) For each complex number ? and each x in J we have, (? – a) x = 0 if and only if x (? – a) = 0.

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Quasi Centralizers and Inner Derivations in a Closed Ideal ‎of a Complex Banach Algebra

Quasi Centralizers and Inner Derivations in a Closed Ideal ‎of a Complex Banach Algebra

As'ad Y. As'ad

aasad@mail.iugaza.edu

Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, Islamic University, ‎Gaza, Palestine.‎

Received : 03-05-2003 , Accepted : 31-08-2004

Language: English

Abstract

In this paper we show that, for an ideal J of a unital complex Banach algebra A, we have (i) under certain conditions the ? -quasi centralizer, the quasi centralizer, and the centralizer of J are all identical, and so they are subsets of the ? -quasi centralizer of J. (ii) If J is closed and a is a quasi centralizer element of J, then DaJ, a restriction of the inner derivation of a to J is topologically nilpotent. (iii) For each complex number ? and each x in J we have, (? – a) x = 0 if and only if x (? – a) = 0.

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Direct Regeneration in Cyclamen Persicum Mill. Using ‎Seedling Tissues

Direct Regeneration in Cyclamen Persicum Mill. Using ‎Seedling Tissues

Hassan Abu-Qaoud

hassan@najah.edu

Department of Plant Production & Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, An-‎Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine. ‎

Received : 27-04-2003 , Accepted : 23-05-2004

Language: English

Abstract

In Vitro shoot regeneration and microtuberization of Cyclamen persicum Mill. were studied using seedling tissues. Tuber, leaf and petiole sections of aseptic seedlings of cultivar ‘Concerto’ were established on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium. Three levels of benzyladenine (BA) (4.4, 8.8, 13.3 µM) and four levels of thidiazuron (TDZ) (0.5, 1, 2, 4 µM) were used with the three different explants. All regeneration media were supplied with 5.4 µM naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). No shoot regeneration was observed in media without cytokinins. The greatest percent shoot regeneration (100 %) was obtained from tuber sections cultured on media supplemented with 4.4 µM BA and 4 µM TDZ. No regeneration was obtained with petiole sections. Microtubers were formed with leaf explant. The higher microtuberization response was obtained with leaf explants cultured on media supplemented with 2 and 4 µM TDZ (41.6 and 58.3, respectively). Tuberous structures (microtubers) were able to sprout and leaves continued to grow on these structures. After an acclimatization period, the plantlets were transferred to the greenhouse and continued their growth normally.

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Pharmacological Evaluation of 5-Flurouracil (5-FU) ‎Utilization among Patients with Gastro-Intestinal Tract ‎‎(GIT) Cancers‎

Pharmacological Evaluation of 5-Flurouracil (5-FU) ‎Utilization among Patients with Gastro-Intestinal Tract ‎‎(GIT) Cancers‎

Waleed Sweileh, Nidal Jaradat, Mai Marmash‎

waleedsweileh@yahoo.com

Faculty of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine‎

Received : 21-10-2003 , Accepted : 23-05-2004

Language: English

Abstract

The clinical utilization of 5-Fluorouracil and its therapeutic implications were investigated at Al-Watani governmental hospital at Nablus (Palestine). The drug and disease profiles of one hundred and thirty patients suffering from various types of cancers were studied. No correlation was noticed between gender and cancer in general although such correlation might exist among patients with gastrointestinal tract (GIT) cancers. Approximately one third (29%) of those patients were suffering from (GIT) cancers especially colon and liver cancers. The majority (66%) of the patients with GIT cancers were treated with 5-FU. Leucovorin (LV) was used by (68%) of patients suffering from GIT cancers and were receiving 5-FU. Patients, in general, were not exposed to poly-chemotherapy (2.6 drugs/patient). Strong pain killers like morphine were used in approximately 24% of patients having GIT cancers. The utilization of 5-FU and LV is in agreement to the general international recommendations especially among patients with colon cancer. Further national studies are required to investigate cost/effectiveness, dose and drug appropriateness among patients with malignant diseases.

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ٍSubject Review: Application and Usage of Pesticides in Palestine: Current and Future Outlook

ٍSubject Review: Application and Usage of Pesticides in Palestine: Current and Future Outlook

Yacoub Batta

info@najah.edu

Laboratory of Plant Protection, Dept. of Plant Production and Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 17-10-2001 , Accepted : 17-12-2002

Language: English

Abstract

The present review paper was prepared due to the lack of reports or review articles which analyze and treat the problems resulting from the excessive use and application of pesticides in the Palestinian territories (P.T). It stated and discussed firstly the current status of pesticides application and usage in the P.T then, exposed at the problems created by the overuse of pesticides in these territories and then offered the proper solution of these problems at the present time and in perspective. Thus, it provided with a number of basic elements which may improve the present and future application and usage of pesticides in the P.T. It also urged to follow the necessary measures in order to solve the problems of pesticides overuse and hence to protect both local environment and national crop products from pesticide pollution. Moreover, certain examples were cited in this paper on fruitful regional cooperation between neighbouring countries as a solution of some cases of hard pest control on certain crops. Until present, such cases are treated only with excessive amounts of pesticides but, the proposed solution either reduces greatly the amount of applied pesticides for treating the pest or investigates non-pesticide control measure.

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Subject Review: The State of the Art in Integration of Cost and Time Models

Subject Review: The State of the Art in Integration of Cost and Time Models

Nabil Dmaidi

pa@najah.edu

Civil Eng. Dept., Faculty of Engineering, An-Najah University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 04-09-2000 , Accepted : 08-03-2003

Language: English

Abstract

Cost and time are interdependent by their very nature. However, cost and time are generally treated in isolation both informally and within the terms of the contract. In reality, cost and time interact throughout the construction cycle. Thus, cost and time models and modelling systems must facilitate the integration of cost with time. Recognition must also be given to the need to integrate cost and time, and suitable contractual procedures for utilising more advanced styles of modelling must be implemented. In this paper traditional and emerging models of cost and time are reviewed and the contractual context of cost and time integration is explored. This review seeks to ascertain if and why models and contracts have failed to satisfy this particular requirement, as well as the other requirements placed upon them. Key Words: Cost Models; Time Model; Integration and Modelling System

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Contraceptive Methods: Cost/Effectiveness Ratio from a Customer’s Perspective in Palestineh

Contraceptive Methods: Cost/Effectiveness Ratio from a Customer’s Perspective in Palestine

Waleed M. Sweileh*, Abdelrahim M. Barham**

waleedsweileh@yahoo.com, barham@najah.edu

*College of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine. **Dept. of Statistics, Faculty of Science, An-N. National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 26-09-2002 , Accepted : 15-04-2003

Language: English

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the clinical and economic impact of alternative contraceptive methods to be used by women in Palestine. Effectiveness of the various tested methods was obtained from literature survey. Direct medical costs (medical consultation and drug costs) per user per day of use associated with six modern contraceptive methods were modeled from the perspectives of the Palestinian customer. Cost data were drawn from community pharmacies price list dated August 2002. Cost-effectiveness analysis shows that the most cost-effective (C/E) methods were intrauterine device (IUD) and injectable Depo-Provera® while the least cost-effective methods were the progestin only and combined oral contraceptive pills. The pharmaco-economic analysis of the data shows that over one year of use per 1000 patients, the IUD method makes 35,000 USD of savings compared to progestin only pills (POP) and 19,000 USD of savings compared to combined oral contraceptive pills (COC). This pharmaco-economic evaluations of the available fertility modulating methods and devices should assist the Palestinian married women and health professionals in rational selection of contraceptive method.

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The Impact of Implementing Quality Management Principles of IS09000 on Business Effectiveness: An Applied Study at Palestinian Businessesht

The Impact of Implementing Quality Management Principles of IS09000 on Business Effectiveness: An Applied Study at Palestinian Businesses

Amjed Al-Ghanim

Amjed9001@yahoo.com

Industrial Engineering Dept., Faculty of Eng., An-Najah National Univ., Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 29-04-2002 , Accepted : 25-05-2003

Language: English

Abstract

The management of quality has received considerable attention in recent years and various studies have documented analysis and results of the impact of quality management models on organizational effectiveness. This research study provides details of an investigation of the impact of the principles of ISO9000 quality management system on improving organizational effectiveness in Palestine. Using a recent survey of ISO9000 implementing companies, data were collected and analysed about critical quality management principles: quality strategy, continuous improvement, leadership development, and customer satisfaction, and the impacts were assessed using key organizational effectiveness indicators: employee satisfaction, quality, and productivity. Basic hypotheses were formulated and tested and the results showed that companies have indeed made significant efforts towards establishing genuine quality systems and consequently attained benefits in terms of effectiveness indicators. Furthermore, correlation analysis confirmed suggestions in the literature that a company’s performance is positively impacted by the establishment and implementation of quality principles and quality models.

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Two-Sample Multivariate Test of Homogeneity

Two-Sample Multivariate Test of Homogeneity

Ali S. Barakat

barakat@najah.edu

Dept. of Statistics, Faculty of Science, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 13-11-2000 , Accepted : 04-03-2003

Language: English

Abstract

Given independent multivariate random samples X1, X2,.... , and Y1, Y2,..... , from distributions F and G, a test is desired for Ho: F = G against general alternatives. Consider the k • (n1+n2) possible ways of choosing one observation from the combined samples and then one of its k nearest neighbors, and let Sk be the proportion of these choices in which the point and neighbor are in the same sample. SCHILLING proposed Sk as a test statistic, but did not indicate how to determine k. BARAKAT, QUADE, and SALAMA proposed a test statistic, which is equivalent to a sum of N Wilkoxon rank sums. The limiting distribution of the test has not been found yet. We suggest as a test statistic Tm = S Sh(m,j)و Where h (m,j) = I{jth nearest neighbor of the median m is a y}. The limiting distribution of Tm is normal. A simulation with multivariate normal data suggests that our test is generally more powerful than Schilling’s test using k = 1, 2 or 3.

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Pricing and Controlling Construction Projects Using the Significant Philosophy

Pricing and Controlling Construction Projects Using the Significant Philosophy

Nabil Dmaidi*, Rashad Zakieh**

pa@najah.edu, rzakiah@hotmail.com

*Civil Engineering Dept., Faculty of Eng., An- Najah University, Nablus, Palestine. **APG / salamus, Aberdeen Scotland, U.k

Received : 19-03-2001 , Accepted : 17-12-2002

Language: English

Abstract

Recent research has demonstrated the feasibility of identifying, within any category of project, a small number of cost significant work packages whose value represent a consistently high proportion of the total bill value. Using the allied principle of quantity significance, it proved possible to build simple models, which could predict both the cost and the duration of a project. In the course of that work, a surprisingly linear relationship between value and quantity was noted. This paper reports the background to and consequences of that finding. Quantity-significant work packages are formed by aggregating those items within a trade for which a linear regression of value against quantity yields a correlation coefficient greater than 0.99 and an intercept insignificantly different from zero. The price of packages formed in this way can be determined simply by applying to all the items within the package the rate associated with the largest quantity, the so-called “characteristic item”. Application of the concepts of quantity-significance and characteristic items is expected to lead to simpler estimating and more effective control procedures, because there is no longer any need to allocate cost and resources to each individual item contributing to a work package. Keywords: Cost estimate, cost control, significance, cost modeling

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Comparative Analysis of Using Small Cylindrical Specimens for ‎Compressive Strength of Portland Cement Concrete‏ ‏

Comparative Analysis of Using Small Cylindrical Specimens for ‎Compressive Strength of Portland Cement Concrete‏ ‏

Osama Abaza

oabaza@najah.edu

Civil Engineering Dept, College of Engineering, An-Najah National University, ‎Nablus, Palestine. ‎

Received : 18-09-2002 , Accepted : 14-10-2003

Language: English

Abstract

Cast compressive strength tests performed on Portland cement concrete varies from one standard to another and from one country to another. In many situations, it may be necessary to compare compressive strength values tested using different specimen sizes specially in areas were no specific specimen size requirement is adapted. It is considered that the restraining effect of the platens of the testing machines extends over the entire height of the cube but leaves a part of a test cylinder unaffected. For that reason, many codes prefer to use cylinder of 300 ×150 mm rather than cubes, but this leaves the problem of preparation and handling of relatively large sample (300×150 mm), which creates a difficulty during construction. The proposed cylindrical specimen of 150x75 mm considered in this research will enable a practical and easy handling, at the same time it keeps the effect of machine plates at minimum. For the purpose of this research, specimens were prepared and tested having 100 mm and 150 mm for cubes, and 150x75 mm and 300x150 mm for cylinders. Ten mixes were used in preparation of specimen above having variable water-Cement ratio varying from 0.30 to 0.83. A compressive strength results shows that a relationship exists between the different specimens sizes especially the proposed 150x75 mm cylinder and the standard 300x150 mm cylinder. Based on the outcome of this research it is recommended to use the proposed 150x75 mm cylinder specimen and the correlation developed between the proposed specimen size and the standard cylindrical specimen.

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Alternaria Leaf Spot Disease on Cucumber: Susceptibility and Control ‎Using Leaf Disk Assay

Alternaria Leaf Spot Disease on Cucumber: Susceptibility and Control ‎Using Leaf Disk Assay

Yacoub Batta

yabatta@najah.edu

Laboratory of Plant Protection, Dept. of Plant Production and Protection, ‎Faculty of Agriculture, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.‎

Received : 17-10-2002 , Accepted : 14-10-2003

Language: English

Abstract

Results obtained in the present research using leaf disk assay indicated significant differences in susceptibility of tested cucumber cultivars to Alternaria cucumerina-infection. Hasan cultivar was the most susceptible, but Rocket cultivar was the least susceptible. Assessment of treatment efficacy with fungicides and Trichoderma harzianum against the disease using leaf disk assay indicated the presence of significant differences between the treatments with 4 types of new, low-residual fungicides or 2 forms of T. harzianum and the control treatments with a blank formulation of invert emulsion or sterile distilled water. Treatments with fungicides just before the disease inoculation demonstrated that Score® and Switch® completely inhibited appearance of the disease-lesion on treated cucumber leaf-discs when applied at a rate of 0.35% (V/V) and 0.20% (W/V), respectively. Treatments with the same fungicides at the same application rates 24h after the disease inoculation also completely inhibited the disease-lesion appearance when Score® was applied. It suppressed the disease-lesion diameter to 2.5mm or reduced it by 83.5% relative to control when Switch® was applied. Moreover, application of formulated conidia of T. harzianum in invert emulsion at a concentration of 2.0X108 conidia/ml significantly suppressed the disease-lesion diameter on treated cucumber leaf-discs. Such application decreased the lesion diameter to 4.5 and 6.5mm or reduced it by 70.4 and 57.2% relative to control when used just before or 24h after the disease inoculation, respectively. It is, thus, concluded that the results obtained on susceptibility of cucumber cultivars to the disease infection and its control should be confirmed on whole plants under field conditions before being recommended to be applied by the farmers and extension agents.

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Classifying and Coding Design and Construction Information

Classifying and Coding Design and Construction Information

Nabil Dmaidi

pa@najah.edu

Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering,An-Najah‏ ‏‎ National ‎University, Nablus, Palestine

Received : 10-12-2000 , Accepted : 14-10-2003

Language: English

Abstract

The search for new approaches to design-construction information integration through the use of computer-based systems is invariably hindered by the need to adopt appropriate representational schemes for the design information by several professions architects, structural engineers, service engineers, quantity surveyors, and by small groups of sub-constructors. Lack of developed coding, classifying and catalogue systems has the greatest impact on the development of integration and the transfer of product information in the light of computer operation. These has been the cause of major problems in the transfer of information between these various bodies (1,14). A proposed design and construction information classifying and coding scheme that facilitates the exchange and manipulation of information in construction projects, while maintaining compatibility with existing classification systems involved in documents like specifications and bills of quantities, will be presented.

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A Descriptive Study of Community Pharmacy Practice in Palestine: ‎Analysis and Future Look

A Descriptive Study of Community Pharmacy Practice in Palestine: ‎Analysis and Future Look

Nidal Jaradat, Waleed Sweileh

nidaljaradat@yahoo.com

College of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine‎

Received : 19-01-2003 , Accepted : 25-05-2003

Language: English

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to describe and analyze the community pharmacy practice in Palestine from a clinical and legal aspects. The study was conducted on a random sample of community pharmacies and carried out by pharmacy students of An-Najah University using a 15-item questionnaire. The working hours of community pharmacies is approximately 9 hours daily and the average working people in the pharmacy is 2.8. The average customer turnover is approximately 25.8. Medical representatives and manufacturer brochures are the primary source of drug information for 90% community pharmacists. Over the counter sale of many prescription medications is unregulated. Substitution of prescribed medications is common in 25% of community pharmacies. No official record of prescription is available. The Ministry of health, the Palestinian Pharmaceutical Association and the college of pharmacy at An-Najah University ought to take measures to improve the pharmacy practice and to provide continuing educational opportunities for community pharmacist in Palestine.

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Effect of “Polypharmacy” and “Frequency of Drug Dosing” on Rate of ‎Compliance among Diabetic and Hypertensive Patients: A Survey Study ‎in Palestine

Effect of “Polypharmacy” and “Frequency of Drug Dosing” on Rate of ‎Compliance among Diabetic and Hypertensive Patients: A Survey Study ‎in Palestine

Waleed Sweileh‏*‏‎, Ola Aker‎‏**‏‎, Saeed Hamooz‎‏**‏

waleedsweileh@yahoo.com

College of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine. ‎ ‎‏**‏Ministry of Health, Nablus, Palestine‎

Received : 18-09-2002 , Accepted : 25-05-2003

Language: English

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of polypharmacy and frequency of drug dosing on the rate of compliance among hypertensive and diabetic patients in the Palestinian community. The rate of compliance of 321 hypertensive and diabetic patients was assessed using graded questionnaire. The overall rate of compliance for the tested sample was 42.1%. Both, diabetic and hypertensive patients tend to have better compliance and less noncompliance when the number of medications is decreased. The best rate of compliance in both cases was obtained when patients have simple one drug regimen. Both, diabetic and hypertensive patients tend to have better compliance on once daily dosing (ODD) versus multiple daily dosing (MDD). However, diabetic but not hypertensive patients tend to have better compliance on once daily dosing versus twice daily dosing. These results indicate that although once daily dosing is associated with higher compliance but it is not always the best especially in treatment of hypertension as the treatment of some type of hypertension requirs more than one drug more daily doses, depends on the type of hypertension, as well as dirbetic melitiies. These results should encourage physicians in the hypertension and diabetes mellitus clinics of the Palestinian Ministry of Health (MOH) to minimize the number of prescribed medications to improve compliance, therapeutic outcome and to minimize cost.

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Pharmacotherapeutic Analysis and Prescription Pattern of ‎Antihypertensive Drugs Dispensed at Community Pharmacies in Palestine‎

Pharmacotherapeutic Analysis and Prescription Pattern of ‎Antihypertensive Drugs Dispensed at Community Pharmacies in Palestine‎

Waleed Sweileh

waleedsweileh@yahoo.com ‎

College of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine. ‎

Received : 30-12-2002 , Accepted : 25-05-2003

Language: English

Abstract

The objective of this study is to explore the influence of current therapeutic recommendations on the prescribing trends of anti-hypertensive drugs in general medical practice in Palestine. Five hundred and seventy four anti-hypertensive prescriptions were analyzed. The percentage of mono-therapy prescriptions was 48.25% and that for combinational therapy prescriptions was 51.75%. Among the mono-therapy prescriptions, b- blockers were the most commonly prescribed, while diuretics were under-utilized. Inappropriate dose strength of atenolol was seen in mono-therapy prescriptions. Expensive and newer angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor drugs (ACE-I) and calcium channel blocking drugs (CCB) were frequently seen in mono therapy prescriptions. Among the combinational therapy, the b-blockers / diuretics was most common. Irrational combinational therapy of b-blockers / ACE-I was noticed. Use of modern and new CCB, ACE-I and angiotensin II type 1 receptor antagonists (AT1-RA) was seen in both mono therapy and combinational therapy. The overuse of nonprefered drugs and the under-use of prefered medications is indicative that education of JNC VI guidelines for physicians and health professionals in Palestine is needed.

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ٍShort Communication: Dethiation of ?-Methyl and ?-Phenylmercaptopropionic Acid Derivatives

ٍShort Communication: Dethiation of ?-Methyl and ?-Phenylmercaptopropionic Acid Derivatives

Mohammad Hannoun

Faculty of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 07-05-2001 , Accepted : 07-05-2002

Language: English

Abstract

Dethiation of ?-(3–benzoylphenyl)-?-methyl and ?-phenylmercaptopropi-onic acid (I & II) with Raney nickel is described

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Electrophysiological Assessment of Diabetic Neuropathy Improvements by using Insulin and Thiamine

Electrophysiological Assessment of Diabetic Neuropathy Improvements by using Insulin and Thiamine

I. W. Muflih*, A.M. Abdul-Kareem** G.A. Al-Sharify***

*Faculty of Pharmacy, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine. **Sadam College of medicine, Baghdad, ***Al-Yarmouk Hospital, Baghdad.

Received : 29-05-2001 , Accepted : 07-05-2002

Language: English

Abstract

Two groups of (type II) non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) patients were assisted electophysiologly for the neuropathy of their peripheral nerves and compared with the control group. The assessments aimed to evaluate the levels of improvements that may occur in the functions of seven peripheral nerves by using insulin (group 1) and thiamine (group 2) as a treatment modalities. The obtained results of the first visit of the patients of both groups showed significant changes in the recordings of the examined parameters (latency, conductive velocity and amplitude) of the peripheral nerves compared to the recordings of the control group. The nerves conduction study (NCS) of the newly diagnosed type II diabetic patients who were shifted to insulin gave statistical significant variable improvements at the 12 month of re-examination and in the three parameters of all the tested nerves at the 18 month of re-examination, compared to the first visit of the patients. The effectiveness of thiamine (vit. B1) on the type II diabetic patients seems to be used for the first time, in the present study. The obtained results showed improvement in the tested parameters of three nerves only, namely the median and ulnar sensory nerves in addition to the sural nerves compared to the first visit records of the patients. Key words: Insulin and Thiamine Effectiveness on Neuropathy of type II diabetic patients.

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The effects of shear rate and capillary length-to-diameter ratio on isothermal extrudate swell of polymer melts

The effects of shear rate and capillary length-to-diameter ratio on isothermal extrudate swell of polymer melts

Sharif Musameh*, S. Jodeh**

*Physics Department, Faculty of Science, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.** Polymer Department General Motors Research and Development, Warren, Michigan 48090, U.S.A.

Received : 15-04-2000 , Accepted : 29-12-2001

Language: English

Abstract

The objective in this article is to establish useful composition-processing structure-property relationships for predicting the rheological properties of automotive type multi-component polymer liquids, and to determine the effects of shear rate and capillary length-to-diameter ratio on isothermal extrudate swell of polymer melts.

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ٍSubject Review: The Status of Horticulture Protection and Using Pesticides in Gaza Strip

ٍSubject Review: The Status of Horticulture Protection and Using Pesticides in Gaza Strip

Ahmad S. Saleh, Ismael Abdel Aziz

Received : 28-12-1998 , Accepted : 17-12-2002

Language: Arabic

Abstract

A field study has been conducted in Gaza governorates to evaluate status of plant protection and using pesticides by farmers. To achieve this goal a questionnaire of 31 questions has been prepared and answered by a randomly chosen sample of 48 farmers representing the agricultural density of each governorate. It covered the northern area, Gaza, middle region, Khanyunis and Rafah governorate. The study shows that most farmers who have been included in this questionnaire are characterized as having an educational level beyond the preparatory stage; they are either young or older more than 51 years. They also have crucial relationship with their farms. These farmers have not been given sufficient training on new techniques of plant protection and on the safe use of pesticides. In addition the study shows that many dangerous pests and weeds have attacked the fruit trees and also the agricultural extension agents play an essential role in extension and in direction of the farmer towards selecting the pesticides which will be used on crops, and most of farmers depends on chemical method in their attempt to control the plant diseases and pests, however few of them depend on alternative techniques. Although, they prefer other alternatives which are safer to the environment, the variations among farmers in terms of the quantity (dosage) used of pesticide. The study showed that farmers used high volume technique in spraying the pesticide, the farmers may spray the pests during three times a day (morning or noon or evening). They either use motorized Knapsack sprayer or tractor sprayer or, lever operated knapsack sprayer or manual sprayer motor. The farmers reuse the remaining spray solution to spray their crops without taking into consideration the quantity needed for each crop area. Although farmers get their pesticides from local market, they believe that such pesticides are dangerous, expensive, and ineffective. Furthermore, the study shows that some crops like, grapes, apples are considered among the most frequently sprayed crops with pesticides. It also shows that diseases, which affect these crops, constitute major economic losses for the farmers more than losses caused by insect and mites. The contrary previous crops caused in guava, almonds, olives, citrus, by insects and mites constitute a major economic caused for the farmers more than losses caused by plant diseases. The study showed also list of pesticides, which are used to control for each pests and diseases of different fruit trees.

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Concentration and Temperature Dependence of Shear Viscosity of the Critical Mixture of Nitroethane and 3-Methylpentane

Concentration and Temperature Dependence of Shear Viscosity of the Critical Mixture of Nitroethane and 3-Methylpentane

Issam R. Abdelraziq

Physics Department, Faculty of Science. An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 13-06-2000 , Accepted : 07-05-2002

Language: English

Abstract

Shear viscosity coefficients of nitroethane and 3-methylpentane mixture have been measured using digital viscometer. The measured values were over the entire concentration range above the critical temperature (Tc = 299.590 K) in the range 0.040 ? T- Tc ? 18.570 K. The results above the critical temperature Tc were analyzed by the mode coupling theory. The anomaly of shear viscosity was detected as a function of temperature and concentration. A least square fit near the critical temperature yields a value of noncritical part of shear viscosity ?0 = 0.358 cP. The Debye momentum cutoff qD and the constant A in the mode coupling approach were determined. Our values of ?0 and A are in good agreement with the literature values.

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The Role of Pitch Filter in Pulse-by-Pulse Reoptimization of the LP Synthesis Filter

The Role of Pitch Filter in Pulse-by-Pulse Reoptimization of the LP Synthesis Filter

Allam Mousa

Department of Electrical Engineering, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 27-11-2000 , Accepted : 29-12-2001

Language: English

Abstract

Two iterative analysis algorithms were developed for the reoptimization of the LP synthesis filter based on a pulse-by-pulse reoptimization manner. In this study, the use of the pitch filter in the analysis algorithms is introduced. Similar to the no pitch case, improvement in the gain is achieved. On the other hand, this gain has dropped compared to the no pitch case. Moreover, the number of pulses needed to reoptimize the LP filter found to be much less than that, in the no pitch case.

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Effect of Pressure and Temperature on Preparing PZT Films

Effect of Pressure and Temperature on Preparing PZT Films

Sharif Musameh

Physics Department, Faculty of Science, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 09-05-2000 , Accepted : 02-01-2002

Language: English

Abstract

Ferroelectrics lead zirconate titanate (PZT) thin films were fabricated by pulsed laser deposition on Pt coated Si substrate. The effect of oxygen partial pressure, substrate temperature and time of ablation on the film orientation and composition will be presented. It was found that highly (111) textured PZT films could be grown with careful selection of ablation conditions which are: the oxygen pressure is 300 mT, substrate temperature is 605 C and the ablation time is 16 minutes.

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A New Optimum Method for Designing Dredging System

A New Optimum Method for Designing Dredging System

Zaher Kuhail

Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Islamic University, Gaza, Palestine.

Received : 19-11-2000 , Accepted : 05-11-2001

Language: English

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to try to reach a suitable design method for dredging systems, using a large amount of experimental data of the author and others. A theoretical model was derived and adopted, then tested against the chosen experimental data. The mostly used theories in sediment transport with special emphasis on pipe roughness have been investigated and compared with the proposed model. Different pipe roughness, pipe diameters, sediment parameters, and velocities have been studied and tested under different flow regimes and conditions (experimentally and theoretically). A flow regime index has been introduced by the author to allow different flow regimes to be distinguished (heterogeneous, saltation and critical flow regimes). At the end a new method of design has been introduced using the modified roughness transport parameter, which when tested against all data, a satisfactory correlation was reached. This parameter proved to be the best among all existing methods, with the best correlation, which enabled the introduction of a proper design method for dredging purposes.

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Spectrophotometric Determination of Tiopronin in Pharmaceutical Preparations

Spectrophotometric Determination of Tiopronin in Pharmaceutical Preparations

Maher Abu-Eid*, Nidal Zatar*, Tamara Kamal** and Mohammad Hannoun***

*Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, **Drug Quality Control Unit, ***Faculty of Pharmacy, An-Najah N. University, Nablus, Palestine

Received : 09-10-2000 , Accepted : 07-05-2001

Language: English

Abstract

Two spectrophotometric methods are described for the determination of tiopronin in pharmaceuticals. They are based on the oxidation-reduction reaction between tiopronin and iron (III), then forming a complex between iron (II) and ferrozine or di-2-pyridyl ketone-2-thiophenoylhydrazone. The produced colored iron (II)-ferrozine complex [system I] absorbs at 562 nm, while the iron (II)-di-2-pyridyl ketone-2-thiophenoylhydrazone complex [system II] absorbs at 656 nm. The effect of different factors such as: pH, reagent concentration, time of reaction, temperature and the tolerance amount of the common excipients have been studied. Applying the optimum working conditions, tiopronin can be determined over the range 0.2-8.6 and 0.5-17.0 ppm and with molar absorptivities of 2.0x104 and 1.0x104 l mol-1cm-1 for systems I and II, respectively. Both methods offer high selectivity, sensitivity and accuracy with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of less than 1.1% for five measurements. The proposed methods were applied successfully for the determination of tiopronin in Captimer tablets. Key Words: Spectrophotometry, Tiopronin, Ferrozine, Di-2-pyridyl ketone-2-Thiophenoylhydrazone (DPKTH), Pharmaceutical analysis.

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Polystyrene Lightweight Concrete (Polyconcrete)

Polystyrene Lightweight Concrete (Polyconcrete)

Zaher Kuhail

Civil Engineering Department, Islamic University, Gaza, Palestine.

Received : 21-02-2000 , Accepted : 18-07-2001

Language: English

Abstract

This paper handles the characteristics of new lightweight concrete consisting of polystyrene, sand, cement and water. Through this paper it has been proven that the proposed mix is very reliable giving strengths of up to 200 kg/cm2 with a low density. The mechanical and chemical properties are discussed in order to study the behaviour of the polystyrene under different environments (i.e. field usage). The mix workability is very high at a very low water/cement ratio (down to 0.35). This work can be considered a new line of research for lightweight concrete as the mixing method is very simple, relatively inexpensive and does not need complex machinery systems.

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Oxidation of some Alicyclic Amines by Potassium Hexacyanoferrate (III) in Alkaline Medium: A Kinetic and Mechanistic Study

Oxidation of some Alicyclic Amines by Potassium Hexacyanoferrate (III) in Alkaline Medium: A Kinetic and Mechanistic Study

M. M. Al-Subu, A. A. Amer, W. J. Jondi, M. Hanoun, M. J. Musmar

a Dept. of Chem., b College of Pharmacy, An-Najah N. Univ. Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 14-02-2001 , Accepted : 13-06-2001

Language: English

Abstract

Oxidation of some alicyclic amines (morpholine, piperazine and piperidine) by potassium hexacyanoferrate(???) in basic medium has been investigated at 35°C. Stoichiometric results showed that four moles of hexacyanoferrate(III) were consumed per mole of piperidine or morpholine whereas piperazine consumed eight moles of the oxidant to produce the corresponding lactams. Kinetic studies indicated that piperidine and morpholine also followed different kinetics from that of piperazine, being first order in the amine concentration and independent of the concentrations of hexacyanoferrate(???) and hydroxide ion, while in the case of piperazine, the reaction was first order in both oxidant and substrate concentrations and zero order with respect to the concentration of hydroxide ion. The changes in reaction rate due to changing ionic strength of the medium as well as other factors has also been investigated. The activation parameters of the oxidation process have been evaluated and a mechanism consistent with the observed kinetics has been proposed. Keywords: Hexacyanoferrate(???), morpholine, piperazine, piperidine, oxidation, lactam.

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On Multipliers of Orlicz Spaces

On Multipliers of Orlicz Spaces

Mahmud Masri

Mathematics Department, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine

Received : 09-10-2000 , Accepted : 07-05-2001

Language: English

Abstract

Let be a finite positive measure space, X a Banach space, a modulus function and a strongly measurable function. The Orlicz space is. The space of Bochner p-integrable functions, is.Also,. When X is a Banach algebra we show that the multipliers of is if for all a1 and b.Also, = if for all a,b in [0,which generalizes the special case X being the complex numbers C. When is also non-atomic we show that for all iff.

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Review of The Multiplier Algebra of Orlicz Spaces

Review of The Multiplier Algebra of Orlicz Spaces

Mahmoud Masri

Mathematics Department, Faculty of Science, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 05-07-2001 , Accepted : 10-09-2000

Language: English

Abstract

In this review of the paper of A. Hakawati, "The Multiplier Algebra of Orlicz Spaces" we point out a gap in the proof of the main result and suggest a proof of it. , We also point out some misprints.

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Adsorptive Cathodic Stripping Voltammetric Studies of Emodin

Adsorptive Cathodic Stripping Voltammetric Studies of Emodin

Mohammad A. Hannoun

Faculty of Pharmacy, An- Najah National University- Nablus, West Bank (Palestine)

Received : 22-09-1998 , Accepted : 31-08-1999

Language: English

Abstract

A differential pulse cathodic stripping voltammetric (DP-CSV) method for determination of emodin in Britton- Robinson buffer (pH2) at a hanging mercury drop electrode (HMIDE) is described. The method is based on measuring the reductive peak height at —0.25V vs. Ag/AgCl reference electrode. The linear relationship between the peak current and emodin concentration allowed the voltarnmetric determination of emodin over a wide concentration range 1.0 X 10-2 —2.5 X10-6 M, with a relative standard deviation of 3.3% (10 determinations at 1 X 10-2 M). Adsorption of emodin at HMDE enabled a detection limit of 2X10-1°M after 3 min accumulation at 0.0V. The applicability of the suggested method was found to be suitable for the determination of emodin in roots, stems and leaves of Rumex cyprius plant.

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Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure Study on Ge28.33 In6 Se65.67 Glass

Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure Study on Ge28.33 In6 Se65.67 Glass

Ghassan Saffarini

Physics Department, Faculty of Science, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 06-10-1997 , Accepted : 24-05-1999

Language: English

Abstract

The local environment of indium atoms in the chalcogenide glass with the stoichiometric composition Ge28. 33 In6 Se65 67 has been investigated using extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) technique. It is found that indium is only coordinated with selenium atoms with a value of three for its coordination number.

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Effect of Shear Produced by Pipe Fittings on the Drop Size Distributions in Turbulent Flow of Kerosene/Water Mixtures

Effect of Shear Produced by Pipe Fittings on the Drop Size Distributions in Turbulent Flow of Kerosene/Water Mixtures

Amer El-Hamouz

Dept. of Chemical Engineering, An-Najah National Univ., Nablus, Palestine

Received : 07-06-1998 , Accepted : 11-04-1999

Language: English

Abstract

Drop size distribution data for kerosene-water dispersion were obtained in 1."I.D. pipe at a range of velocities in turbulent flow for a straight horizontal pipe. U shaped pipe and an offset pipe fitting oriented horizontally and vertically (upward and downward) to the main flow. A Lightnin in line static mixer was used as a premixer and the drop size distribution was measured by a Malvern 2600 analyzer. By changing the number of internal elements from 4 to 18 the mixer produced a primary dispersion with the mean drop sizes in the range of 50-700 um for the flow rates of 20 to 84 l/minute. The Sauter mean diameter, d32, was found to decrease as the number of elements was increased until an equilibrium drop size was reached. This equilibrium drop size varied with the fluid velocity through the mixer. For a dispersion of ~0.5% kerosene in water, the correlation of drop site with energy dissipation rate, e, was found to give a reasonable agreement with Kolmogoroff’s theory with an exponent in the range of -0.47 to -0.56 for a horizontal pipe and -0.60 to -0.72 for U-shaped and offset pipe fittings. The Sauter mean diameter was also correlated against Weber number with an exponent in the range of -0.71 to -0.83 for all the linings used.

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The Response of Three Varieties of Wheat to Nitrogen Fertilization

The Response of Three Varieties of Wheat to Nitrogen Fertilization

Hassan Abu-Qaoud, Numan Mizyed

Dept. of Plant Production & Protection, An-Najah N. University-Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 06-10-1997 , Accepted : 19-07-1998

Language: Arabic

Abstract

The effects of different levels of nitrogen fertilization (0, 2, 4, 8 and 16 kg N / dunum) on the production of three wheat varieties (780, Lakeesh and Anbar) were studied. The experiment was conducted for two successive seasons 1994 and 1995. In the second season (1995) a higher nitrogen fertilization rate (16 kg N / dunum) and a third variety (Anbar) were added. The different levels of nitrogen fertilization were arranged in a Completely Randomized Design for each variety. The results showed positive response of the three varieties to the nitrogen fertilization. Nitrogen fertilization increased significantly the total yield and the straw weight in variety 780 and the grain weight for lakeesh variety in the first season. In the second season, there was a significant quadratic relation between the nitrogen fertilization and the total grain and straw weight in variety 780 and the total and grain weight for lackeesh, however for Anbar variety a significant quadratic relation was only shown between the nitrogen application and straw weight. There was no significant effect of nitrogen fertilization on grain size or the level of nitrogen and protein in the grains. Using the yield-fertilizer application relations obtained in the experiment, it was found that the optimal nitrogen fertilization which gave the highest (optimal) return were 5.7, 12.6 and 9.5 kg dunum for the three varieties (lakeesh, 780 and Anbar) subsequently. The optimal amount of fertilization wasn't highly influenced with 20% changes in prices.

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Flood Routing Techniques for Incremental Damage Assessmenth

Flood Routing Techniques for Incremental Damage Assessment

Anan Jayyousi

Department of Civil Engineering, An-Najah N. University, Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 30-03-1996 , Accepted : 25-11-1998

Language: English

Abstract

Incremental damage assessment (IDA) for dam safety evaluation determines whether or not a significant increase in flooding will result from dam failure. Since IDA depends on a prediction of downstream flooding with and without dam failure, it is essential that flood routing be performed using an appropriately selected and properly applied technique. Conclusions drawn from an IDA can be distorted if flood routing is inappropriately applied or if unrealistic breach parameters are used. In this paper, the results of a study which assesses the accuracy of alternative flood routing technique for use in IDA are reported. Flood routing techniques that are evaluated cover dynamic routing, kinematic, Muskingum-Cunge, and normal depth storage routing. These techniques were evaluated against the more accurate two-dimensional flood routing technique contained in the diffusion hydrodynamic model (DHM). The assessment was conducted for conditions which typify those that exist in Palestine. The goal of the study is to develop guidelines for selection of flood routing techniques for use in IDA and for interpreting IDA results in different settings. The overall outcome shows that the performance of one dimensional techniques in predicting peak stages performed very well when using a full one dimensional model especially in cases where there is a uniformity in the water course.

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On Composition Operators on N+(?)

On Composition Operators on N+(?)

Mahmud Masri

Department of Mathematics, An-Najah N. University, Nablus-Palestine

Received : 22-10-1996 , Accepted : 27-10-1998

Language: English

Abstract

Let N(?) denote the class of analytic functions fin a domain ?, contained in the complex numbers C, such that log(1+| f |) has a harmonic majorant. The subclass N+(?) of N(?) consists of all f such that log(1+| f |) has a quasi-bounded harmonic majorant. Let ? be a non-constant analytic function from ? into itself Define the composition operator C?, on N(?) by C?f=fo?, V f € N(?). Then C?, maps N+(?) into itself. Here we characterize the invertibility of C? when ? is finitely connected with boundary ? consisting of disjoint analytic simple closed curves and we give a necessary condition for the density of the range of C?, in N+(?). Moreover, we consider linear isometries on N+(?) and their relation to C?.

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Some Remarks on Closure and Strong Continuity

Some Remarks on Closure and Strong Continuity

Mohammad Saleh

Department of Mathematics, Birzeit University, Birzeit, Palestine

Received : 13-12-1997 , Accepted : 27-10-1998

Language: English

Abstract

Noire studied several properties of weak continuity in Proc. Amer. Math. Soc. 46(1), 120-124. In this paper it is shown that similar to most of the results of the above paper still hold for closure and strong continuity. Example 2 is a counterexample to a corollary to Theorem 6 of Long and Herrington. Theorem 12 of our paper is a sharper result to Theorem 5 of Noire. Several decomposition theorems of closure and strong continuity are obtained.

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Effects of Urea Feeding on Milk Characteristics of Baladi Goats

Effects of Urea Feeding on Milk Characteristics of Baladi Goats

Jamal Abo Omar, Hassan Abu Qaoud, Hatim Shanti

Faculty of Agriculture, An-Najah N. University-Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 00-00-0000 , Accepted : 00-00-0000

Language: Arabic

Abstract

Two feeding trials were conducted on local goats to investigate the effect of urea on both quantity and quality of milk. In the first trial, two groups of lactating goats were fed similar commercial feed plus 1% urea in the feed of one group. In the second trial, same number of pregnant goats were used to investigate urea feeding on colostrum and milk quality. Urea addition in experiment 1 had no significant effect on total milk production, total milk protein, casein, but significantly (P<.05) increased total solids and milk fat. In the second experiment, urea had similar effects as in the first experiment. Colostrum composition was not affected by urea treatment.

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Histological and Histochemical Changes in the Liver of Albino Rats Due to Methyl Alcohol Administration

Histological and Histochemical Changes in the Liver of Albino Rats Due to Methyl Alcohol Administration

Ismail Abdel Aziz

Biology Department, Faculty of Science, Islamic University, Gaza

Received : 00-00-0000 , Accepted : 00-00-0000

Language: English

Abstract

Histological and histochemical changes in the livers of 40 adult male albino rats (Rattus norvegicus) were studied at different intervals following methyl alcohol administration. The animates were divided into three groups. Methanol was administrated by oral a intubation in two doses (1m1/Kg. body weight and 2m1/Kg. body weight, respectively) for twenty consecutive days. Then the animals were killed after different periods of time (5, 10 and 20 days). The changes appeared to be time and/or dose dependent. Early signs of hepatic changes were characterized by hydropic degeneration, nuclear pyknosis, erosion of the endothelial lining of the blood vessels, vascular congestion and internal haemorrhage. Degenerative hepatic cells were seen invaded by inflammatory infiltrative cells. Maximum signs of deterioration were detected when 2m1/Kg. body weight was given. The first dose of methanol (1m1/Kg. body weight) caused depletion of liver glycogen, lipids, total proteins, proteins containing NH group, nucleic acids contents, and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH). Also, it caused a significant elevation of alkaline and acid phosphatase activities. The second dose of methanol (2m1/Kg. body weight) showed stronger effects on the 10th and 20th days of administration.

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Comparative Analysis of Techniques for Solving the Hydraulics of Pressurized Irrigation Pipe Networks

Comparative Analysis of Techniques for Solving the Hydraulics of Pressurized Irrigation Pipe Networks

Numan Mizyed

Plant Production Department, Faculty of Agriculture, An-Najah N. Univ., Nablus, Palestine.

Received : 00-00-0000 , Accepted : 00-00-0000

Language: English

Abstract

This study presents a comparative analysis for three techniques in analyzing the hydraulics of pressurized irrigation systems: Linear Theory, Newton Raphson, and Iterative Distal Outlet. It was found that the iterative distal outlet method uses less computer time and memory than Newton Raphson and Linear theory methods in analyzing the hydraulics of pressurized irrigation systems. The study shows that using an approximate initial solution for such systems, which can be obtained using Wu-Gitlin approach, will significantly improve the convergence rate of this iterative method as well as the other methods.

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