A Bim-Based Flexible Flow Shop Framework For Scheduling Linear Infrastructure Projects, Mahmoud Mohamed Elbassuony

Theses and Dissertations

Repetitive, multi-stage linear projects, such as pipelines or highways, are primarily impacted by spatial and resource constraints during their execution. Cost overruns, delays, and inefficient resource allocation make construction management for such projects complex. Traditional scheduling techniques, such as Critical Path Method (CPM) and Line of Balance (LOB), are less efficient for scheduling dynamic, complex, and multi-objective projects. There are more advanced scheduling methods that can be applied as a decision-making process to determine the optimal timing of activities and achieve other objectives. One of those techniques is the Flexible Flow Shop model (FFS), which can be effectively applied to …

Cognivault: Enabling Privacy-Aware Cognitive Distortion Detection In Intelligent Mental Health Applications, Mariam Dawoud

Theses and Dissertations

Mental health applications are increasingly leveraging intelligent systems to sup- port psychological well-being, yet preserving user privacy remains a major concern. This thesis presents CogniVault, a secure ecosystem for cognitive distortion data. The framework includes Cognify, a mobile journaling application that detects cog- nitive distortions in user-written journal entries using a locally deployed machine learning model. Cognitive distortions are maladaptive thought patterns such as catastrophizing or personalization, which the app identifies to provide therapeu- tic insights. To ensure privacy-preserving data analytics, CogniVault includes the design and implementation of a hybrid security architecture, PRISM-HDI, that combines Paillier Homomorphic Encryption (HE), Differential …

Design Of Novel Formwork System And Development Of Numerical Model For Comparison Between Formwork Systems, Ahmed Yehia Abdel Aziz El Sayed

Theses and Dissertations

The formwork industry has witnessed major breakthroughs in the last decades. However, they required huge amount of materials leading to negative environmental impacts. Also, the commercially available systems have big number of accessories and requires the extensive use of units to cover the areas to be poured. There was an attempt to target all these disadvantages by introducing the Funicular Arched Steel Truss (FAST) system. However, this system had its own drawbacks, and this is why the researcher introduced an extendable version named the “Extendable Funicular Arched Steel Truss (EAST) system.”

To reach the final version of the EAST design, …

Mechanical Characterization And Modeling Of Rat Myocardia Under The Influence Of Epirubicin, Abdallah Mahmoud Alkhaiyat

Theses and Dissertations

Cancer remains a predominant health challenge that is responsible for a significant portion of global morbidity and mortality. Epirubicin (EPI), a chemotherapeutic anti-cancer drug, has shown remarkable efficacy in combating various malignancies. However, it is known to have undesirable side effects on the heart, collectively referred to as cardiotoxicity. This research investigates the adverse effects of chemotherapy on cardiac contractility through an in vitro examination of the mechanics of healthy and infarcted animal heart tissues. Electrically stimulated slices of rat ventricular tissue were tested using an isometric force measurement tissue bath. The tissue slices were subjected to uniaxial stretching, allowing …

A Virtual-Reality-Based Dental Simulator For Endodontics With Automated Formative Feedback, Yousef Salah Abo El Ela

Theses and Dissertations

Advancements in virtual reality (VR) and haptic technology are transforming the landscape of medical and dental education, offering new avenues for safe, immersive, and repeatable training experiences. Within dentistry, endodontics presents unique challenges for preclinical education due to anatomical complexity, limited access to extracted teeth, ethical concerns, and the shortcomings of conventional plastic models. Despite endodontics specific plastic teeth being available, they fall short of replicating the hardness of real extracted teeth, are relatively costly compared to generic plastic teeth, and are ultimately a disposable item which makes them inadequate as a sustainable long-term solution. Extracted teeth do a much …

Towards Decarbonizing Concrete Industry In Egypt: Material Alternatives, And Economic Viability, Reem Gamal

Theses and Dissertations

The construction industry remains one of the largest contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, with cement and steel production accounting for approximately 15% of total emissions. As global infrastructure demands continue to rise, there is an increasing need for practical tools that support low-carbon construction practices in line with international climate commitments. This research presents the development and testing of a mathematical, adaptable decision support system designed to assess both the environmental and financial impacts of material selection in concrete production. Focusing on life cycle stages A1 to A3, raw material extraction, transportation, and manufacturing, the decision support system enables …

A Computational Study Of The Chemomechanics Of Paracetamol Polymorphs: Towards Improving Drug Tabletability, Karim Nader Samra

Theses and Dissertations

The mechanical properties of pharmaceutical crystals are of great importance in tablet manufacturing. Also, knowing the mechanical properties of different polymorphs of the same crystal can reduce the overall production cost. In this study, computational work was done via performing density functional theory calculations on 3 paracetamol crystal polymorphs Form I, II, and III. Understanding the chemical bonding helps in predicting the key elastic properties for different crystallographic directions. In Form II, lattice vector C is dominated with the intermolecular hydrogen bond OH…O giving it the stiffest Young Modulus and the least Poisson’s ratio. Then comes the A-Axis which contains …

Ai-Driven Stratified Modeling For Early Liver Disease Detection: A Comparative Study Of Ensemble And Conventional Machine Learning Classifiers, Ghadeer Murtadha Ali, Ali Aqeel Hadi, Mustafa Abdulkareem Abbas, Abdullah Alkarar Mohammad, Ahmed Fadhil Abdulhussein

AUIQ Technical Engineering Science

Background: Early prediction of liver disease remains challenging in routine clinical diagnostics due to the multifactorial nature of hepatic dysfunction and the limited discriminative capacity of conventional laboratory-only assessments.

Objective: This study aims to develop and rigorously evaluate a robust machine learning framework for binary liver disease classification, emphasizing predictive stability, diagnostic balance (sensitivity–specificity), and statistical reproducibility across repeated experiments.

Methodology: A structured dataset of 1,700 records with 11 features representing demographic, behavioral, genetic, and clinical determinants was used to train and compare five supervised models: CatBoost, AdaBoost, Random Forest, Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Decision Tree. Performance was assessed …

Enhancing Sustainable Cooling Solutions: Investigating Spot Radiant Cooling Systems Performance And Influence On Indoor Comfort In Hot Climates, Norhane Eldeeb, Ahmed Ahmed Fikry, Abbas Mohamed Elzafarany, Ehab El Shazly, Hinar Abo El-Maged

HBRC Journal

In hot climates, demand for effective sustainable cooling strategies to maintain comfort is high. Nevertheless, conventional radiant cooling systems are often hindered by condensation risks and complex control requirements in partially occupied spaces. To address these challenges, at top inlet conditions of approximately 26°C and 50% Relative Humidity) RH (, three-dimensional CFD simulations validated against the 1.405 kW reference case of Shin et al. were performed to quantify the effect of installation height and panel geometry on spot radiant cooling performance. Lowering the flat CRCP from 2.6 m to 2.2 m reduced volume averaged air temperature (T_a) …

Leveraging Blockchain Technology In Mining Supply Chain Management: Vietnam Coal Mining Case Study, Thu Hang Nguyen, Nguyen Trung Tuan, Hong Anh Le

Journal of Sustainable Mining

The global economy heavily relies on the mining industry for essential resources such as coal, oil, gas, and metal ores. However, the intricate nature of mining operations poses significant challenges in supply chain management (SCM). This research investigates how blockchain technology can address these challenges within mining supply chain management (MSCM). Through a systematic review of existing research and projects, a conceptual blockchain model is proposed to improve mining supply chains’ transparency, traceability, efficiency, and sustainability, specifically focusing on coal supply chain management in Vietnam. The model integrates distributed ledgers, smart contracts, IoT devices, identity management, and consensus mechanisms to …

Development Status And Existing Problems Of Ion-Solvation Membranes For Electrolysis Of Water, Zheng-Yuan Zhou, Yu-Tao Sun, Zheng-Bang Liu, Chuan-Zheng Wang, Yong-Nan Zhou, Xi Luo, Tian-Chi Zhou, Jin-Li Qiao

Journal of Electrochemistry

Ion-solvaing membranes (ISMs) have received extensive attention in recent years as a key component in electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices. This article provides an overview of structural composition, performance advantages, research progress, ion conduction mechanism and existing issues of ISMs, primarily classifying them according to the matrix structure. A detailed analysis of performance enhancement methods, key performance indicators of ISMs and performance influencing factors is also presented. The article contributes to further optimizing the design and application of ion-solvation membranes, providing theoretical support for the development of fields such as hydrogen production through electrolysis of water and electrochemical energy …

Iron-Involved Orr Electrocatalysts Under The Lens Of In-Situ/Operando Mössbauer Spectroscopy, Sumbal Farid, Jun-Hu Wang

Journal of Electrochemistry

Exploring cost-effective and efficient catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) poses a significant challenge, especially in the pursuit of alternatives to precious metals like platinum. Significant advancements have driven electrochemists to develop efficient ORR catalysts using abundant materials, particularly iron (Fe)-based, known for their exceptional performance in ORR. While the crucial function of Fe in boosting ORR catalytic activity is recognized, the connection between material attributes and catalytic performance remains enigmatic. Understanding the dynamic processes involved in oxygen electrocatalysis is paramount for designing precious-metals-free ORR electrocatalysts. Mössbauer spectroscopy stands out as a powerful technique for deciphering the structural characteristics of …

The Ntp Anode For Aqueous Sodium Ion Batteries: Recent Advances And Future Perspectives, Ming-Li Wang, Xue-Ying Su, Zheng-Xiang Shan, Shu-Zhe Yang, Heng-Rui Guo, Hao Luo, Dong-Liang Chao

Journal of Electrochemistry

Aqueous sodium-ion batteries (ASIBs) have attracted great attention in aqueous batteries due to their merit of high safety. However, the constrained work potential and insufficient chemical stability of anode materials in aqueous electrolytes hinder the large-scale application of ASIBs. Sodium titanium phosphate, NaTi₂(PO₄)₃ (NTP), is considered one of the most promising anode materials for ASIBs due to its excellent electrochemical performance and tunable structure. Recently, great achievements have been made in the development of NTP, however, a comprehensive review of existing studies is still lacking. This article firstly introduces the basic properties of NTP and …

Carbon Supported Octahedral Ptni Nanoparticles (Oct-Ptni/C) As A Cathode Catalyst For Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (Pemfcs) With Improved Activity And Durability, Zi-Wei Feng, Hai-Zhong Chen, Xiao Duan, Ling Tang, Yun-Kun Zhao, Long Huang

Journal of Electrochemistry

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) are considered as a promising renewable power source. However, the massive commercial application of PEMFCs has been greatly hindered by their high expense and less-satisfied performance mainly due to the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) kinetics even on state-of-the-art Pt catalyst. Octahedral PtNi nanoparticles (oct-PtNi NPs) with excellent ORR activity in a half-cell have been widely studied, while their performance in membrane electrode assembly (MEA) has much less reported. Herein, we investigated the MEA performance using the carbon supported oct-PtNi NPs (oct-PtNi/C) as the cathode catalyst. Under the mild acid washing condition, the surface …

Iterative Data Augmentation For Enhancing Deep Learning Performance With Limited Training Data, Avinash Singh

ETDs from 2020-2029

Deep learning models have demonstrated impressive performance across different domains; however, their effectiveness heavily depends on large, well annotated datasets. In practice, data are often limited in size, leading to overfitting, poor generalization, and degraded model robustness and performance. Moreover, conventional augmentation techniques are typically static in nature, lack adaptability during training, and can produce geometrically inconsistent or unrealistic mixed images. This dissertation addresses three major challenges in data augmentation and model generalization: (1) the scarcity of labeled data and limited dataset size, (2) the absence of adaptive mechanisms for dynamically adjusting learning parameters during training, and (3) the creation …

Hybrid Quantum-Classical Optimization Of The Resource Scheduling Problem, Tyler Christeson, Md Habib Ullah, Ali Arabnya, Amin Khodaei, Rui Fan

Electrical and Computer Engineering: Faculty Scholarship

Resource scheduling is critical in many industries, especially in power systems where the Unit Commitment (UC) problem determines the on/off status and output levels of generators under physical and economic constraints. Traditional exact methods, such as Branch-and-Bound, Branch-and-Cut, dynamic programming and mixed-integer linear programming (MILP), remain the backbone of UC solution techniques, but they often rely on linear approximations or exhaustive search, leading to high computational burdens as system size grows. Metaheuristic approaches, such as genetic algorithms, particle swarm optimization, and other evolutionary methods, have been explored to mitigate this complexity; however, they typically lack optimality guarantees, exhibit sensitivity to …

Aerodynamic Analysis Of The Constrained Naca 8412 Airfoil For Formula Sae Application Using Thin-Airfoil And Lifting-Line Theories, Trevor Fried, Carson Running

Mechanical Engineering Student Publications

This project applies Thin-Airfoil Theory (TAT) and Lifting-Line Theory (LLT) to evaluate the aerodynamic characteristics of the inverted NACA 8412 airfoil as a single-element rear wing for Formula SAE. The 2D analysis was validated against XFOIL (Re = 480,000), confirming a zero- lift angle of αL=0 = -8.326° and establishing a viscous limit of cl,max ≈ 1.90 at αstall ≈ 13.0°. The 3D LLT model quantified the induced drag (CD,i), demonstrating that the wing's low aspect ratio and rectangular planform reduce efficiency compared to elliptic loading, with the induced drag being the dominant total drag component at high angles of …

V-22 Osprey Proprotor, Derek Krieger, Carson Running

Mechanical Engineering Student Publications

This paper covers an aerodynamic analysis of the Boeing Bell V-22 Osprey proprotor blade by utilizing thin-airfoil theory (TAT) and lifting-line theory (LLT). The primary focus is how the coefficient of lift and induced drag respond to changes in the angle of attack of the proprotor blades. The proprotor blade is modeled as a finite wing based on the NACA 63-212 airfoil. The wing has a geometric twist of -35 degrees from root to tip. The theories used to evaluate the blade design are limited by the assumption of incompressible, inviscid flow. The results of the analysis indicate that lift …

Evolutionary Mechanisms Of Nanopores And Adsorption Capacity In Shales Under Scco2-Water-Rock Interactions, Feng Guangjun, Wang Meng, Zhu Yanming, Song Yu, Dai Xuguang, Zheng Sijian, Xie Hong, Shang Fuhua

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background Supercritical carbon dioxide (ScCO₂ )-enhanced shale oil and gas recovery serves as an effective approach to geologic CO₂ sequestration. Injecting ScCO₂ into shale reservoirs can trigger complex ScCO₂-water-rock interactions, thereby altering the material composition, nanopore structure, and adsorption capacity of shales. Examining their evolutionary processes represents a critical scientific issue in the evaluation of CO₂ sequestration efficiency. Methods This study investigated the shales of the Longmaxi Formation in the southeastern Chongqing area. Through simulation experiments on ScCO₂-water-rock interactions and by integrating X-ray diffraction (XRD), low-pressure CO₂/N₂ adsorption, fractal …

Advances In Research On Co2 Corrosion Mechanisms, Modification, And Application Of Cements For Injection Wells In Geologic Co2 Sequestration, Hao Feng, Zhang Zongfeng, Wang Hongmin, Du Shuai, Huang Da, Yang Xuefeng, Wang Kexin, Zhang Yu

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background and Merhod The wellbore integrity of CO₂ injection wells plays a critical role in maintaining the long-term safe operation of geologic CO₂ sequestration (GCS) projects. Well cement serves as the foremost wellbore integrity barrier, and its durability under GCS has emerged as a hot research topic both at home and abroad. This study systematically reviews the advances in research on the chemical corrosion mechanism of well cement under the operating conditions of GCS, technologies for cement modification for enhanced resistance to CO₂ corrosion, and non-Portland cement systems. Furthermore, the directions for the future development of well …

Numerical Simulations Of The Safety Of Geologic Co2 Storage In Saline Aquifers In The Enping Sag, Pearl River Mouth Basin, Yu Tao, Li Xiwen, Yang Yunshi, Chen Bingbing, Ji Zemin, He Chang, Jiang Lanlan, Song Yongchen

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, excessive CO₂ emissions have aggravated the greenhouse effect. Against this backdrop, CO₂ capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology has emerged as a critical countermeasure. Particularly, geologic CO₂ storage holds enormous application potential. China has implemented a demonstration project of geologic CO₂ storage in saline aquifers located in the Enping Sag, Pearl River Mouth Basin. Nevertheless, this sag exhibits formation dip angles and widely distributed fracture zones, which affect CO₂ migration and storage. Methods Focusing on the Enping Sag, this study established a two-dimensional model of the saline …

Research Progress And Prospects Of Full Flowsheet Coal-Based Ccus, Sang Shuxun, Liu Shiqi, Zheng Sijian, Huang Fansheng, Liu Tong, Chen Siming, Zhou Xiaozhi, Han Sijie, Tian Yuchen, Xiang Wenxin, Bai Yansong

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background The engineering-oriented, full flowsheet coal-based carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technology is the key to efficient, clean coal utilization and carbon emission reduction. It represents a major technology that is urgently needed to ensure the energy security of China and achieve the strategic goals of peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality of the country. Based on previous research efforts of the authors’ team, this study reviews the current status of this technology, reveals its integration mechanisms, and attempts to establish a pattern and scheme for CCUS cluster deployment in coal energy bases. Furthermore, it discusses the future …

An Experimental Study On Nonlinear Seepage Characteristics In Coal Seams During Ch4 Displacement Through N2 And Co2 Flooding, Li Zefeng, Huang Mengru, Zhang Hongzhong, Lan Jianping, Song Jinsuo, Fan Shixing

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background Coal seams in China are generally characterized by low porosity (<5%) and low permeability (0.001×10^–3μm²), leading to low coalbed methane (CBM, dominated by CH₄) drainage efficiency. Gas flooding-enhanced CBM drainage technology plays a significant role in surface CBM drainage, underground CBM pre-drainage, and deep geologic CO₂ storage. Methods This study investigated four common types of gases: N₂ and CO₂ for flooding, CH₄ to be displaced, and He for blank control. Based on the physical properties of these gases and employing methods including the quasi-static method, the gas flow rate method, and the Reynolds …

Research And Application Of A Decision Support Platform For Geologic Co2 Storage Siting Based On A Global Case Database, Zhou Yinbang, Wang Rui, Zhen Yan, Dai Quanqi, Cheng Chuanjie

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective Under the strategic background of reaching the goals of peak CO₂ emissions and carbon neutrality, there is an urgent need to address the core issue of geologic CO₂ storage (GCS) siting in the advancement of large-scale GCS deployment. Establishing a decision support platform based on a global GCS case database can provide key data and historical experience references for GCS siting, reduce storage risks and costs, and accelerate industrial layout. Furthermore, the platform can offer a scientific basis for formulating related policies and conducting technological R&D.Methods This study proposed and developed a comprehensive evaluation system for …

Carbon Sequestration Technology: Challenges And Urgent Critical Scientific Issues, Li Xiaochun, Liu Tianyu, Zhang Liwei, Zhou Hong, Liu Guizhen, Wang Yan, Gan Manguang, Li Qi

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective Carbon sequestration technology represents a core approach to achieving carbon neutrality. However, its large-scale application remains constrained by multiple technical and scientific challenges. Methods Based on an analysis of existing carbon sequestration projects, this study identified four major challenges in carbon sequestration: (1) high uncertainty in the assessment of CO₂ sequestration capacity; (2) low injectivity of low-permeability discontinuous reservoirs; (3) a limited understanding of long-term mechanical stability; and (4) significant difficulty in assessing the risks of CO₂ leakage. Results To address these challenges, this study proposes the common issues currently faced by carbon sequestration technology, and, accordingly, …

Designation And Classification Of Co2 Storage Technologies, Ma Fubo, Yang Xuechao, Zhou Zhengwu, Liu Hongliang, Chang Jia, Yi Jiayao, Wang Yan

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective and Method Currently, there remains a lack of criteria for technical certification, designation, and classification of carbon dioxide (CO₂) storage technologies due to their cross-disciplinary nature and ambiguous scopes. To address this issue, this study proposes technical certification criteria and designation principles, as well as analyzes four types of common CO₂ storage technologies: geologic storage, underground space storage, ocean water storage, and utilization and storage. Accordingly, a classification philosophy and scheme for these technologies is determined.Results and Conclusions In terms for technical certification criteria, a CO₂ storage technology has to meet four criteria: (1) …

An Improved Model Of Trans-Critical Ch4 And Co2 Adsorption In Coals Based On Monolayer Adsorption And Adsorption Potential Theories, Song Xuemei, Zhang Kun, Sang Shuxun, Ma Mengya, Liu Huihu, Xu Hongjie

Coal Geology & Exploration

Objective and Method Adsorbed phase density represents a key parameter for determining gas adsorption capacity in coals. Using bituminous coal samples from the Huainan and Huaibei mining areas in Anhui Province, this study carried out high-pressure isothermal adsorption experiments of CO₂ and CH₄ at temperatures of 24 ℃, 36 ℃, and 48 ℃. In combination with the quantitative characterization of pore structures in coals using low-temperature liquid nitrogen adsorption (LNA) experiments and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), this study analyzed the high-pressure trans-critical CH₄ and CO₂ adsorption processes in coals. Meanwhile, based on the Gibbs excess adsorption, …

Research Advances And Prospects Of Geologic Co2 Sequestration Models, Hu Chenlin, Dong Cheng, Sang Shuxun, Tang Yong, Li Xin, Zhang Bin, Zhao Lingfeng

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background The urgent need to respond to global climate change and to achieve carbon neutrality is driving geologic CO₂ sequestration technology to be increasingly large-scale, safe, and intelligent. Since the CO₂ sequestration process involves multi-physical field coupling, the engineering feasibility and long-term safety of CO₂ sequestration heavily rely on the capacity of numerical models to perform accurate characterization of complex subsurface processes. Therefore, establishing a model system, covering the entire process consisting of injection, migration, sequestration, and monitoring, that is suitable for various geobodies for CO₂ sequestration has emerged as a foundation for the engineering application …

Distribution Characteristics And Mechanisms Of Ch4 And Co2 Adsorption In Montmorillonite Nanopores In Water-Bearing And Saline Environments, Du Kai, Rui Zhenhua, Qian Cheng, Chen Siwei

Coal Geology & Exploration

Background Carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) has emerged as a significant way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the guidance of the strategic goals of peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality. With the continuous exploitation of unconventional hydrocarbon resources such as shale oil and gas, varying water-bearing and salinity conditions exert significant impacts on the occurrence stability and seepage behavior of CO₂, thereby reducing the efficiency and safety of CO₂ storage. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the competitive behavior and distribution patterns of CO₂ and other gases in shale nanopores under varying water-bearing and …

Table Of Contents, The Editors

Coal Geology & Exploration

No abstract provided.