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Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum Proceedings 2010 Table of Contents i Preface p37 - BMP9 The spectrum of Mediterranean fever (MEFV) mutations in an Arabic cohort ii Abstract Review Panel p38 - BMP10 Preliminary results of multilingual, multicultural survey design iii Scientific Committee p39 - BMP11 Ethical issues in genetic research p40 - BMP12 Cyanobacteria and BMAA exposure from desert dust –a possible link to sporadic ALS among Gulf War veterans p41 - BMP13 Characterization of the LPIN2 gene and its protein and examination of its role in psoriasis p42 - BMP14 Patient opinion of the Doctor-Patient relationship in a public hospital in Qatar p43 - BMP15 Influence of the glycemic load (GL) on subjective and objective measures of sleep quality in insomnia p44 - BMP16 Detection and classification of human movement (DC-MOVE) p45 - BMP17 Nascent HIV epidemics among men who have sex with men appear to be emerging in the Middle East and North Africa Biomedicine - Oral Presentations p16 - BMO1 Building a biomedical research program in Qatar p17 - BMO2 High-risk human papillomavirus infection among women attending women’s hospital in Qatar p18 - BMO3 The identification of CNVs in patients and their association with diseases and phenotypes p19 - BMO4 Mutations in GJB2, GJB6 and mDNA 1555A>G variant explain only a minority of cases of nonsyndromic hearing loss in the Qatari population p20 - BMO5 Vitamin D and bone density in Qatari adults p21 - BMO6 Population genetic structure of the people of Qatar p46 - BMP18 Cardiovascular risk factors in metabolically diverse, non-diabetic Qatari women p22 - BMO7 A novel DNAH11 mutation in a Qatari family with primary ciliary dyskinesia p47 - BMP19 Regulation of mammalian odorant receptor genes p23 - BMO8 Development of a novel switchable CE-MS interface with predictive trajectories for high-throughput proteomics studies p48 - BMP20 Mutations in IL1RN in bone and skin inflammation p49 - BMP21 Associations of adipocytokines and anthropometric measurements of the newborns of pregnant women with abnormal screening of 50g glucose tolerance test in State of Qatar p24 - BMO9 Factors influencing rehabilitation outcome in adult traumatic brain injury in Qatar p25 - BMO10 Electrocardiographic characteristics of West-Asian and African Male athletes: the Qatari pre-participation screening experience p50 - BMP22 Homozygosity mapping identifies additional loci for primary ciliary dyskinesia in two Qatari families p26 - BMO11 WCMC-Qatar stem cell research program p51 - BMP23 The genetic association of CYP2C19 allele with clopidogrel treatment in myocardial infarction p27 - BMO12 Are novel semisolid filled hard gelatin capsules superior to currently marketed Metformin tablets? p52 - BMP24 Molecular analysis of phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene from dried blood spots from Libyan phenylketonuria patients p28 - BMO13 Biological characterization of Qatari and regional endemic plant extracts for cosmetic purposes p53 - BMP25 Repeated sprinting on natural grass impairs vertical stiffness but doesn’t alter plantar loading in Qatari soccer players p54 - BMP26 Developing a childhood prevention programme for children in the State of Qatar Biomedicine - Poster Presentations p55 - BMP27 Neuromuscular alterations may not trigger the earlier exercise cessation in a hot environment p29 - BMP1 Multimerization of the transient receptor proteins TRPV6 and TRPC1 p56 - BMP28 Atypical Rett syndrome diagnosis by molecular testing p30 - BMP2 Production of novel proteins therapeutics for cancer treatment p57 - BMP29 Cognitive decrements do not follow neuromuscular alterations during passive heat exposure p31 - BMP3 Evidence of intense ongoing endemic transmission of hepatitis C virus in Egypt p58 - BMP30 p32 - BMP4 Screening for and cloning and molecular characterization of two new oligopeptidase B encoding genes Gender differences in body composition, inflammatory markers and risk of metabolic abnormalities in Arabs p59 - BMP31 p33 - BMP5 Potential role of inositol 1,4,5 - triphosphate receptors in the pathogenesis of hypertension Novel poly (diol-co-tricarballylate) biodegradable elastomers! What makes them excellent carriers for controlled drug delivery and tissue engineering applications? p34 - BMP6 Molecular characterization and structure determination of human ADAMTSL4 p60 - BMP32 Factors influencing breast cancer screening practices among Arab women living in the State of Qatar p35 - BMP7 The impact of interventions on HIV transmission among couples in sub-Saharan Africa p36 - BMP8 Polymorphism in adiponectin receptor gene type 1 (ADIPOR1) in individuals with coronary artery disease with and without type 2 diabetes in the state of Qatar Table of Contents Biomedicine - Student Posters Energy & Environment - Poster Presentations p61 - BMPS1 Metal toxicity at the synapse: presynaptic, postsynaptic and long-term effects p88 - EEP1 Adaptive transmission for spectrum-sharing cognitive systems p62 - BMPS2 Gene identification in Mendelian forms of familial epilepsy p89 - EEP2 Biopesticide research and development: for safer agriculture, food and environment p63 - BMPS3 Role of mesenchymal stem cells in enhancing ovarian cancer metastasis p90 - EEP3 p64 - BMPS4 Enhanced EGFR expression and function in calreticulin deficient cells Incipient fault diagnostics of rotating electrical machines using adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system p65 - BMPS5 Label-free intrinsic imaging capillary zone electrophoresis analysis to detect homocysteine from blood serum for the detection of genetic metabolic disorders in new-born babies in Qatar p91 - EEP4 First-ever research on the basic ecology of the Ethiopian hedgehog (Paraechinus aethiopicus) in Qatar p92 - EEP5 Potentials for commercialization of novel Fischer-Tropsch reactor technology p93 - EEP6 Supported gold nanocatalyst for low temperature CO oxidation and combustion of volatile organic compounds (VOC) p94 - EEP7 Study of interrelationship between atmospheric turbulence with oceanic wave motions p95 - EEP8 Genetic and environmental variation among Qatari date palm cultivars assessed by DNA markers p96 - EEP9 Development of a high-speed, magnetically-loaded energy storage system p97 - EEP10 Endangered wild plants in Qatar p98 - EEP11 Real-time, online, air quality monitoring sensor network p99 - EEP12 Optimal resource allocation for relay-assisted wireless communication systems p100 - EEP13 Preparation, characterization and investigation of CO2 adsorption behavior of zincmagnesium carbonate compounds p101 - EEP14 Ecologies of scale: strategies for designing culturally and environmentally relevant neighborhoods in Doha, Qatar p102 - EEP15 Laser ultrasonic inspection, a new inspection technique and its effects on the integrity and surface properties of the metallic surfaces p103 - EEP16 Effects of GTL fuels on aircraft gas turbine altitude ignition combustor operability p104 - EEP17 Life cycle assessment of polymers in Qatar p105 - EEP18 Non-invasive method to examine the diet of the spiny-tailed lizard, Uromastyx aegyptia microlepis, in Qatar p66 - BMPS6 Calreticulin mediated control of polycystin-2 expression p67 - BMPS7 A new 3-dimensional model for ovarian cancer based on amniotic membrane p68 - BMPS8 Signature changes in human brain wave activity associated with olfactory learning p69 - BMPS9 A mouse model analyzing the influence of dietary fat intake on liver apoptosis p70 - BMPS10 Analysis of cortical development in Lis1-GFP mice p71 - BMPS11 Regulation of store-operated channels by endoplasmic reticulum chaperons p72 - BMPS12 Tumor associated mesenchymal stem cells protect ovarian cancer cells from hyperthermia through CXCL12 p73 - BMPS13 Initial investigation of ubiquitination pathway in mammalian meiosis Energy & Environment - Oral Presentations p76 - EEO1 Materials science and engineering are ‘outside the box’ at Qatar University to improve the Environment p77 - EEO2 Gas-to-Liquids Research at Texas A&M University at Qatar p78 - EEO3 GTL fuels and their effects on aircraft aas turbine altitude ignition – detailed diagnostics p79 - EEO4 Automating visual inspection of pipes used for natural gas production p80 - EEO5 Real-time leakage detection in underground water pipelines using wireless communication p81 - EEO6 Smart solar reactor for co-production of hydrogen and industrial grade carbon under any weather conditions p106 - EEP19 Integrated pest management as an alternative to chemical pesticides with low environmental impact p82 - EEO7 Improving productivity and increasing Qatar reserves p107 - EEP20 p83 - EEO8 Qatar biofuel: research, development, education, infrastructure Fluid-rock interaction in carbonates - the impact of flow rate and grain size distribution on limestone dissolution at the laboratory column scale p84 - EEO9 Developing an air quality modeling system for Qatar p108 - EEP21 Using clumped isotopes to help understand isotopic sector zoning in calcite p85 - EEO10 Efforts in the State of Qatar to conserve and monitor endangered marine turtles p109 - EEP22 Improving stable carbon and oxygen isotope geochemical measurements in dolomite: reference material and acid fractionation factor p86 - EEO11 Pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) chlorophyll a fluorometry for monitoring the health of corals along the coast of Qatar p110 - EEP23 Fracture-related diagenesis in the carbonate carapace of a salt dome, Jebel Madar, Oman p87 - EEO12 Qatar Sustainable Water & Energy Utilization Initiative (QWE). Water and environmental research activities at TAMUQ p112 - EEP24 Early dolomitization of a Lower Cretaceous shallow water carbonate platform: was microbial activity a major controlling factor? Table of Contents p113 - EEP25 A novel meshing and finite element flow model for porous media p140 - CSO9 Named entity recognition from Arabic Wikipedia p114 - EEP26 First evidence of scavenging behavior in the herbivorous lizard p141 - CSO10 Exploiting social interactions using opportunistic networks p115 - EEP27 Numerical analysis of three-dimensional sloshing with random excitations p142 - CSO11 The Qatar Unified Imaging Project (QUIP) p116 - EEP28 Up-stream smart metering pilot p143 - CSO12 Effective programming for large distributed ensembles p117 - EEP29 High sea temperatures cause the death of stony corals p118 - EEP30 Population density of cockroach species and magnitude of their infestation in Jeddah Province, Saudi Arabia p119 - EEP31 Rodent control strategy in animal farms (izzab) in Qatar p120 - EEP32 Integrated APC-controlled SPC monitoring chart for quality improvement p121 - EEP33 Improving mechanical and thermal properties of AZ31 magnesium alloy through simultaneous addition of aluminum and nano-alumina p122 - EEP34 p123 - EEP35 Computing - Poster Presentations p144 - CSP1 A second-order statistical method for spectrum sensing in correlated shadowing and fading environments p145 - CSP2 Conceptual approach for multi-level restructuring of categorized documents in a corpus p146 - CSP3 Numerical simulation of particle-laden coaxial turbulent jets p147 - CSP4 Assistive educational technology Holocene sabkha and coastal systems of Qatar: models for the interpretation of ancient Arabian plate carbonate evaporite reservoirs and coastal management p148 - CSP5 Effect of non-uniform, out-of-plane illumination, shear rate and particle distribution on the accuracy of nPIV velocity measurement A new risk-based approach for alarm system design p149 - CSP6 Estimation of highly selective channels for downlink LTE system by a robust neural network Energy & Environment - Student Posters p150 - CSP7 Time of arrival-based location estimation for cooperative relay networks p124 - EEPS1 Biodiversity of Qatari Bacillus thuringiensis strains and molecular prediction of their biological activities and Bioassays: for a safer and clean environment p151 - CSP8 Protocol suite for exploiting spectrum resources in Dynamic Spectrum Access Networks p125 - EEPS2 Development and control of homogenous charge compression ignition engines: a preliminary study p152 - CSP9 Development of an optimal data reduction scheme for a four-wire hot-wire probe p153 - CSP10 p126 - EEPS3 Paper recycling at Qatar University Characterization of the indoor/outdoor radio propagation channel at 2.4 GHz in Qatar University campus p127 - EEPS4 Numerical methods in modelling and simulating fluid flow in heterogeneous and naturally fractured hydrocarbon reservoirs p154 - CSP11 An initial study of the structural phase transition of SrTiO3 p155 - CSP12 Data structures and algorithms in pen-based computing environments p156 - CSP13 Nanoscale Brownian motion-based thermometry in near wall region p157 - CSP14 ParaNets: a parallel network architecture for the future internet p158 - CSP15 Discrimination thresholds of virtual curvature for haptic and visual sensory information and future applications in medical virtual training p159 - CSP16 Mental task discrimination using digital signal processing p160 - CSP17 A multilingual financial watch alerting system p128 - EEPS5 Genetic diversity of date plam in Qatar Computing - Oral Presentations p132 - CSO1 CameraNets: coverage and data management problems in distributed smart camera networks p133 - CSO2 An integrated platform for intelligent road traffic monitoring and travel information delivery p134 - CSO3 Interference-aware protocol design in wireless networks p135 - CSO4 Design and analysis of new generation protocols for triple-play networks p136 - CSO5 Qloud: a cloud computing infrastructure for scientific applications p137 - CSO6 Designing a new programming language for building secure cloud computing-based applications p138 - CSO7 What do drill strings and surgical threads have in common? p139 - CSO8 Qatar simulator development programme Computing - Student Posters p161 - CSPS1 Constraint diagrams can be used to interpret program specification expressions: an evaluation experiment with novice users p162 - CSPS2 Rich entity recognition in English text p163 - CSPS3 StepID - A Matlab-based toolbox for identification from step response Table of Contents Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies - Oral Presentations p166 - AHO1 Success strategies of small states: the State of Qatar Ccompared to Switzerland, Singapore and Lebanon p167 - AHO2 How effective are the student recruitment methods used by Qatar’s Education City universities? p168 - AHO3 Female ESL teachers’ perceptions about their roles and professional development needs in Qatar’s ‘Education for a New Era’ p169 - AHO4 وأوضاع ذوي االحتياجات الخاصة في قطر،دراسة شاملة عن اإلعاقة p170 - AHO4 A comprehensive study on disability and the conditions of people with special needs in Qatar p172 - AHO5 Participation of women in Qatar’s labor force p173 - AHO6 Attitudes toward expatriate and labor migrant workers in the Arab Gulf countries: mixed results from Qatar p174 - AHO7 Enhancing the development impact of remittances: a study of direct payment and savings facilities for Filipino workers in Qatar p175 - AHO8 Qatari women and the internet: an analytical study for patterns of use and utilization p176 - AHO9 Proof of concept “A Portable Architecture for Qatar” p177 - AHO10 Dohaland research: search for a contemporary Qatari architectural language that is ‘modern rooted in the past’ p178 - AHO11 Developing an information resource on Islamic medical and scientific ethics p179 - AHO12 ضوابط العالج بالنانو تكنولوجي في ضوء المقاصد والمآالت الشرعية p180 - AHO12 Checks on nanotechnology treatment in the light of Islamic legal purposes and outcomes Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies - Poster Presentations p181 - AHP1 How do Qatari females make it to the top? An exemination of organizational constraints to their advancement? p182 - AHP2 Simulation training for laparoscopic surgery with 3rd and 4th year medical students p183 - AHP3 What are the possibilities for taking up a physically active subject position for young Qatari women? p184 - AHP4 Towards a national project to plan and build cultural values and Arab personal skills for the 21st century p185 - AHP4 نحو مشروع وطني وقومي لتخطيط وبناء القيم الحضارية وإعادة تأهيل االنسانى العربي لعبور القرن الواحد والعشرون p186 - AHP5 Knowledge-based urban development paradigm: Doha as a model for a knowledge and creative city in the Middle East p187 - AHP6 4D Doha: mapping Qatar's built environment over time p188 - AHP7 The image of the United States portrayed in Arab world online journalism p189 - AHP8 Within-household sampling: searching for a better method conditional on household size information p190 - AHP9 The significance of the People Factor in project cost estimates p191 - AHP10 Road traffic accidents in rich developing countries: the case of the State of Qatar p192 - AHP11 Cost analysis of road accidents in the State of Qatar p193 - AHP12 عام الرمادة:دور القيادة الراشدة في إدارة األزمة p194 - AHP12 The Role of Enlightened Leadership in Crisis Management: The Year of Famine Preface Abstract Review Panel The Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum aims to showcase some of the world-leading research programs undertaken by national stakeholders, universities, international partners and multinational companies that have been set up to serve Qatar, as well as the global scientific community. The call by Qatar Foundation for the research community to participate in the first Annual Research Forum 2010 was met with an overwhelming response. • Dr. Dirar Khoury, Research Division, Qatar Foundation, Chair, Abstract Review Panel Abstract solicitations were targeted at research programs conducted in Qatar, performed in collaboration with a research entity in Qatar, or carried out under support by a Qatar-based organization. Abstract invitations were intended for established researchers as well as students. • Dr. Bruce Palmer, Texas A&M University at Qatar Abstract submissions were aimed at the forum in its four focus tracks; biomedical research, energy and environment research, computing research, and arts, social sciences, humanities and Islamic studies research. These focus tracks encompass Qatar’s research priority areas and address its future needs. A total of 227 abstracts were submitted electronically via the forum website by the time the deadline was reached, despite continued interest by the research community thereafter. This included 182 scientist submissions and 45 student submissions. To evaluate the abstracts, a review panel was put together which consisted of peers from diverse institutions who are experts in the relevant forum focus tracks. The names of the abstract reviewers are acknowledged below for their kind and dedicated efforts and prompt response. Abstract acceptance was dependent on adherence to submission guidelines and verification of scientific merit as determined by the peer review process. The Abstract evaluation process considered several criteria that included research quality, originality and merit, clarity of written content, and relevance to Qatar. As a result, 145 scientist abstracts were accepted (49 oral presentations; 96 poster presentations), while 21 student abstracts were accepted for poster presentations. Accepted abstracts are published in this forum proceedings. Abstract presentations will be evaluated at the forum by international scholars, whose names are listed below. The committee will select the winners of the Research Excellence Awards. • Dr. Ahmed Elmagarmid, Qatar Computing Research Institute, Qatar Foundation • Dr. Asma Al-Thani, Qatar University • Dr. Basma Abdelgafar, Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies, Qatar Foundation • Dr. Danny Ramadan, Qatar Science & Technology Park, Qatar Foundation • Dr. Eulian Roberts, Qatar Science & Technology Park, Qatar Foundation • Dr. Hatem El-Shanti, Shafallah Medical Genetics Center • Dr. Khaled Machaca, Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar • Dr. Majd Sakr, Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar • Dr. Mariam Al-Ali, Qatar University • Dr. Mazen Hasnah, Qatar University • Dr. Mehran Kamrava, Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar • Dr. Mohamed Salem, Qatar University • Dr. Rabi Mohtar, Qatar Energy and Environment Research Institute, Qatar Foundation • Dr. Roger Mandle, Qatar Museums Authority The presentations provide an excellent opportunity for those engaged in education, research, and community development, and a host of other interested parties, to network and learn about the current work of leading edge research that is carried out at or in collaboration with Qatari institutions. Qatar Foundation invites all parties who are involved in research to actively engage with the broader community in the State of Qatar and to experience the excitement of research and discovery of knowledge at the Annual Research Forum 2010. Sincerely, Dirar Khoury, Ph.D. Chair, Organizing Committee Director, Institutional Research Research Division, Qatar Foundation i | ii Scientific Committee Dr. Abdelali Haoudi, Vice President for Research, Qatar Foundation, Chair, Scientific Committee Computing Research Panel Biomedicine Research Panel •Dr. Richard DeMillo (Chair) Dean, College of Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology, USA • Dr. Elias Zerhouni (Chair) US Presidential Science Envoy, Former Director, US National Institutes of Health, Senior Adviser, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, USA •Dr. Erich Neuhold Professor, Faculty of Computer Sciences, University of Vienna, Austria • Prof. Peter Agre Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2003, Director, Johns Hopkins University Malaria Research Institute, USA • Dr. Moncef Slaoui Chairman, Research and Development, GlaxoSmithKline, United Kingdom • Dr. Marc Cluzel Executive Vice President and Head, Research and Development, Sanofi-Aventis, France • Prof. Kiyoshi Kurokawa Professor, National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies, Professor Emeritus, University of Tokyo, Japan Energy and Environment Research Panel • Dr. Raymond Lee Orbach (Chair) Director, Energy Institute, University of Texas at Austin, USA •Dr. Marek Rusinkiewicz Vice President, Telecordia Technologies, USA Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Islamic Studies Research Panel •Dr. Hatem Al-Karanshawy (Chair) Dean, Qatar Faculty of Islamic Studies, Qatar •Dr. Ali Mohayuddin Qaradaghi Former head, Jurisprudence Department, Qatar University, Qatar •Dr. Roger Mandle Executive Director, Qatar Museums Authority, Qatar •Mr. Richard Charkin President, Bloomsbury Publishing, USA, Visiting Professor, University of the Arts London, United Kingdom • Dr. Philippe Tanguy Vice President, Research, TOTAL, France • Dr. Margaret Catley – Carlson Chair, Global Agenda Council of Water Security, Canada • Dr. Kamal Youcef-Toumi Professor, Mechanical Engineering, Co-Director, Center for Clean Water and Clean Energy, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA, and King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Saudi Arabia •Dr. Lynn Gladden Head, Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom •Dr. Omar Yaghi Professor, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of California, Los Angeles, USA iii | iv Biomedicine Oral Presentations Poster Presentations Student Posters Oral Presentations BMO1 Building a biomedical research program in Qatar Author Institution Khaled Machaca Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar The State of Qatar under the leadership of His Highness the Emir Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani has invested heavily into higher education and research infrastructure development through Qatar Foundation under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al Missned. Part of that effort is the establishment of the biomedical research program at Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar (WCMC-Q), which, in collaboration with other stakeholders in Qatar, aims at instituting a world-class biomedical research program in Qatar. This presentation will highlight the efforts over the past two years expanded toward establishing the WCMC-Q research program. It will present a model for research infrastructure ramp-up in Qatar and the region. We will discuss: research support services including compliance and grants and contracts; the organization, staffing and high-end equipment of core research laboratories that are becoming increasingly important for collaborative biomedical research; and scientific areas of focus for the WCMC-Q program in the context of national priorities, including the diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome center of excellence that is underway. BMO2 High-risk human papillomavirus infection among women attending women’s hospital in Qatar Author Institution Asma Ali Al Thani Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and ideal detection method for high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes, in order to evaluate prevention strategies in cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases in Qatar. The study compared performance of cervical cytology and HPV DNA test to detect high-risk HPV genotype (16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59) infections in a sample of Qatar’s female population, using High Risk Screen RealTime PCR test. Methods: A series of 95 women attending the Gynae-oncology clinic at Hamad Medical Corporation between August 2007 and May 2008 were enrolled in this study. Cervical smears isolated from patients were subjected to High Risk Screen Real-Time test to confirm the presence of HPV DNA. The smears were characterized as ASCUS; LGSIL and HGSIL. Results: The overall prevalence of high-risk HPV in our study population (n=95) was 64%, with HPV 52, 56 and 16 being the commonest types detected..Of the 95 samples in the study, 93 were tested using Pap smear and RT-PCR. 11 samples found to be HPV DNA positive by Pap smear were confirmed by RT- PCR; 34 samples were found to be negative using both tests; and 48 samples which were shown to be negative using Pap smear were found to be positive using RTPCR. Considering RT-PCR and Pap smear as stand-alone tests, the techniques did not show similar sensitivity. The RT-PCR showed better specificity and sensitivity than Pap smear. The prevalence of HPV in the different types of lesions was compared in 65 women who had abnormal smears among the study population. HPV DNA detection rate was 60.7%, 85.7% and 50% within ASCUS, LGSIL and HGSIL cytology, respectively. Conclusions: The study also showed that molecular techniques are more sensitive than conventional methods for detection of HPV infection. The relatively high prevalence of HPV 52, 56 and 16 among the study group has important implications in vaccine prophylaxis in Qatar. Biomedicine | Oral Presentations 16 | 17 BMO3 BM04 The identification of CNVs in patients and their association with diseases and phenotypes Author Institution Mutations in GJB2, GJB6 and mDNA 1555A>G variant explain only a minority of cases of nonsyndromic hearing loss in the Qatari population Jamil Alami Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Authors Institutions The DNA copy number of a region of a genome is the number of copies of genomic DNA. In humans the normal copy number is two for majority of autosomes. However, discoveries have revealed that many segments of DNA, ranging in size from kilobases to megabases, can vary in copy-number. These DNA copy number variations (CNVs) are common in normal individual and contribute to our uniqueness. These changes can also influence the susceptibility to disease. Many genetic diseases that occur in families result from copy number variations. Here we report on the phenotypic and genotypic delineation of de novo CNVs in a number of cases with genetic disorders. Case 1: A 20-year-old male with severe intellectual disability and Marfanoid habitus, cleft palate, facial dysmorphism, microphthalmia and hypermetropia. Cytogenetic investigation showed an unbalanced chromosomal abnormality with an additional un-identified chromosome piece attached to the short arm of chromosome 14. A duplication of the terminal piece of the long arm of chromosome 10 (30.1 Mb) was found. Case 2: A 9-year-old female with global developmental and speech delay associated with dysmorphic features that includes longitudinal face with prominent forehead, high arched palate, and hypertelorism and alternating isotropia. Prominent fetal pads and bridged simian crease are noted in both hands. Her MRI showed diffuse brain atrophy. A duplication of a segment on the long arm of chromosome 15 as well as a deletion of the terminal part of the short arm of chromosome 8 were detected. Case 3: A 13-year-old male with mild to moderate mental retardation, obesity, and dysmorphic features that includes but not limited to micropenis, flat occiput, protruding maxilla, and hirsutism. CT scan showed moderate cerebral atrophy. Cytogenetic investigation revealed a 46 XY r(13) p11.2q32. A 20.5 Mb segment deletion on the terminal part of the long arm of chromosome 13 was found. Moza Khalifa Al Kowari, Paolo Gasparini, Khalid Abdulhadi, Rowa Siam, Nihal Najjar, Maha Al-Sulaiteen, Savina Dipresa, Ramin Badii, Giorgia Girotto Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Burlo Garofolo Children’s Hospital, Trieste, Italy Hereditary hearing loss is a common genetic disorder accounting for at least 60% of prelingual deafness in children. Most cases (70%) are nonsyndromic and are not associated to other signs or symptoms, while the remaining 30% are syndromic. Nonsyndromic hereditary hearing loss has different patterns of inheritance. The most common one is autosomal recessive. This accounts for 75%-85% of the cases. Another 15%-25% of cases are inherited in an autosomal dominant (DNFA) pattern, while the remaining 1%-2% is inherited as X-linked disorder. Several mitochondrial mutations are also reported of which 1555A>G in the 12S rRNA gene is a common cause of mitochondrial-associated deafness in nonsyndromic progressive sensory neural hearing loss and its aminoglycoside induced state. The two major genes for recessive forms are GJB2 and GJB6, which belong to the connexin family. GJB2 and GJB6 code for connexin 26 and connexin 30 proteins, respectively. Here, we report for the first time results of a study in which a series of 120 patients affected by nonsyndromic hereditary hearing loss from 100 Qatari families were screened for mutations in GJB2 and GJB6 genes and the 1555A>G mitochondrial variant. 4 patients carried 35delG mutation, 5 patients the IVS1+ 1G <A, and 2 patients the Trp77Arg mutant alleles. None of the 120 patients were positive for GJB6 mutations or the 1555A>G variant. These findings clearly demonstrate that GJB2, GJB6 and 1555A>G account for a minor proportion of nonsyndromic hereditary hearing loss in the Qatari population and further strengthen the need to search for causative genes in our population. Results presented here in combination with other molecular epidemiology data contribute to efforts for establishing preventive strategies and developing more targeted therapies. The cases included demonstrate that CNVs play a role in genetic disorders, birth defects and patterns of malformations. The delineation of the duplicated or deleted material may help in the identification of genes that play a role in developmental processes. Biomedicine | Oral Presentations 18 | 19 BMO5 BMO6 Vitamin D and bone density in Qatari adults Author Institution Justin Grantham Population genetic structure of the people of Qatar Authors Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar Institutions Background: It has been established that Vitamin D plays an active role in calcium homeostasis by regulating intestinal calcium and phosphorus absorption, renal calcium reabsorption and bone mineralization. Vitamin D deficiency has also been related to type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Purpose: Given that we have previously observed a very high rate of severe Vitamin D deficiency in Qatari girls the aim of this study was to examine whether Vitamin D deficiency was carried on into adulthood in a Qatari population and examine the effect upon bone mineral density and metabolic health status. Methodology: In this cross sectional study, we evaluated the serum 25 hydroxyVitamin D (25(OH)D) levels of 171 male and female Qatari adults (37.2 ± 10 years, body fat 44.1 ± 8.8 %, BMI 31.9 ± 7.9 kg/m2), bone mineral density (BMD) and body composition assessment with dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA). In addition, subjects were assessed for aerobic fitness. Haematological investigations included fasting, glucose, insulin, and lipid profile analysis. Results: Despite high level of body fatness and low aerobic fitness (Predicted VO2max 25.2 ± 7.2 ml/kg/min), blood pressure, glucose, insulin and lipid markers were all within acceptable ranges. Vitamin D deficiency was seen in this group with mean serum 25(OH)D being 15.8 ± 10.3 ng/ml, while PTH was just within the normal range (63.4 ± 23.8 pg/ml). Mean total body BMD was within the acceptable limits (1.2 ± 0.1 g/cm3). There was no correlation between 25(OH)D and BMD, however, BMD was strongly associated with total body weight (r=0.540, p<0.05) and BMI (r=0.456, p<0.05). Furthermore, there were no significant correlations between 25(OH)D and markers of type 2 diabetes, dyslipidaemia, or fitness. Conclusion: The results suggest despite high levels of body fatness, low aerobic fitness and Vitamin D deficiency that this cohort were relatively healthy. On first impression, body weight appears to be a protective mechanism in maintaining BMD within this population. However, those individuals with a BMI < 25 kg/m2 had normal BMD despite extremely low serum 25(OH)D levels (12.6 ± 7.6 ng/ml). This suggests that further research is warranted to elucidate possible contributing factors resulting in a normal BMD despite minimal sun exposure. Biomedicine | Oral Presentations Ronald George Crystal, Lotfi Chouchane, Abeer Gohar, Rebecca Mathews, Khalid A. Al-Ali, Mahmood Zirie, Ameen Al Jayyousi, Marcus Butler, Jacqueline Salit, Neil Hackett, Jennifer Fuller, Haley Hunter-Zinck, Shaila Musharoff, Andrew Clark Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA People of the Qatari peninsula represent a relatively recent founding by a small number of families from three tribes of the Saudi peninsula, Persia, and Oman, with some African admixture. To assess the combination of this founding effect and first-cousin marriages on Qatar’s population genetic structure, in a collaborative program of Weill Cornell-Qatar and Weill Cornell-New York, Cornell University and Qatar University, we assessed DNA samples from self-reported Qatari nationals using Affymetrix SNP Array 5.0 to obtain genotype calls of nearly 500,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in each individual. Principal component analysis was performed along with samples from the Human Genetic Diversity Project dataset, revealing three clusters of genotypes whose proximity to other human population samples is consistent with Arabian origin, a more eastern/Persian origin, and African admixture. The extent of linkage disequilibrium is greater than that of African populations, and runs of homozygosity reflect substantial consanguinity. Despite the fact that the SNPs have a bias toward SNPs common in Europeans, the data strongly support the notion that the Qatari population will provide a valuable resource for the mapping of genes associated with complex disorders. This approach is being tested in samples of the 3 Qatari genomic clusters of healthy vs individuals with type 2 diabetes, a disorder with a high incidence in the Qatari population. To provide a basis for these studies, we have initiated a detailed assessment of the 3 clusters of Qatari genotypes using exome capture and massive parallel sequencing. We expect that these data will provide an invaluable resource for the adaptation of “personalized medicine” for the assessment of risk and the rational use of therapies for the Qatari population. 20 | 21 BMO7 BMO8 A novel DNAH11 mutation in a Qatari family with primary ciliary dyskinesia Authors Institutions Asma Al Dosari, Ibrahim Janahi, Ammar Sadoon, Yasser Al Sarraj, Sara Mohamed, Jamil Al Alami, Hatem El Shanti Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Primary ciliary dyskinesia is a heterogeneous autosomal recessive genetic disorder that leads to ultra structural and functional defects of cilia. This leads to recurrent and chronic respiratory infections, sinusitis, otitis media, and male infertility. In a fraction of patients situs inversus is present. Primary ciliary dyskinesia can result from mutations in at least nine different genes; however, these mutations are responsible for the disease in only about 40 percent of patients. These genes provide instructions for making proteins that form the inner structure of cilia and produce the force needed for motility. We identified a large inbred Qatari family with multiple individuals affected by primary ciliary dyskinesia. On examination of the known genes associated with the disorder, we encountered a homozygous variation in DNAH11 in affected individuals. Mutation analysis by direct resequencing of polymerase chain reaction products of DNAH11 exons, flanking intronic sequences and splice sites showed a novel splice site mutation (c.5945+1 G>C) in exon 34, which probably produces a truncated protein. This mutation segregates with the disorder in this family in an autosomal recessive pattern, is not present in 338 control chromosomes and is theoretically a deleterious mutation. We are currently studying the frequency of this mutation in the Qatari population and its effect on the messenger RNA and protein. Development of a novel switchable CE-MS interface with predictive trajectories for high-throughput proteomics studies Authors Institutions John Hassard, Julien Chapron, Paul Tjossem deltaDOT Ltd, London, UK deltaDOT Ltd, QSTP, Doha, Qatar The capillary electrophoresis (CE)-mass spectrometry (MS) interface is anticipated to have pivotal roles to play in biomarker discovery, elucidation and validation, and in diagnostics, as well as in drug discovery. We are developing a CE-MS system as the natural extension of our Label-Free Intrinsic Imaging (LFII™) platform, allowing a large increase in analytical power. One of the most powerful analytical tools in bio-analytical science applications is the mass spectrometer, allowing identification and extraordinary resolving power. However, this instrument too has shortcomings – it really needs a separation system ahead of it. Traditionally liquid chromatogaphy (LC) or 2D-gel separation have been coupled to MS with relative robustness. However LC techniques are not ideally suited to the analysis of biomolecules, with the use of denaturing solvents, expensive columns etc. while flat gel systems have serious shortcomings in sensitivity, reproducibility, dynamic range, quantification and throughput. These are largely overcome with capillary approaches, such as the Label Free Intrinsic Imaging system, the Peregrine, developed by deltaDOT Ltd of London. The CE-MS interface being developed by deltaDOT QSTP (Qatar Science and Technology Park) will be based on our real-time pattern recognition known as ‘predictive trajectories’ (‘PT’) and biomolecular switching on the LFII platform, to allow specific protein bands, selected ‘on the fly’, to be separated and quantified, before they undergo trypsin digestion, injection and full MS analysis in a Waters high-definition mass spectrometer (‘Synapt’). Such an interface considerably reduces the system noise by giving a switch opportunity to analyse selected bands of interest from the bulk of background buffer and highly concentrated proteins of low interest. Another significant advantage of such an approach would arise from a more coherent signal where peptide fragments of the same protein would elute together, as opposed to traditional liquid chromatography where any peptide fragments could come from any proteins from the sample, requiring heavy and slow analyses processing. Based on work in our QSTP labs, we present preliminary data of analyses undertaken with partners in Qatar University on a range of proteomic targets and other analytes. We show how the unique combination of LFII + PT + HDMS Q-Tof can provide a significant enhancement in analytical power. Biomedicine | Oral Presentations 22 | 23 BMO9 BMO10 Factors influencing rehabilitation outcome in adult traumatic brain injury in Qatar Author Institution Wafaa Saleh Al Yazeedi Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Aim: To analyze the factors influencing outcome in traumatic brain injury (TBI) rehabilitation in Qatar. Design & Methods: It was a retrospective descriptive study of 50 patients with TBI collected during Jan 2004 to Sep 2007 from the Rehabilitation Unit of Rumailah Hospital, Hamad Medical Corporation. Demographic and clinical variables included; age at admission, length of stay in acute care (LOSa), and length of stay in rehabilitation (LOSr), Rancho Level (RLA) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). Functional outcomes were functional independence measure on admission (FIMa) and functional independence measure on discharge (FIMd). Results: Significant positive correlation was observed of FIMd with FIMa and Rancho level (r = 0.69, p = 0.00 and r = 0.70, p = 0.00) respectively where as there was no correlation between FIMd and GCS score. Negative correlation was observed between FIMd and age as well as LOSa (r = -0.47, p = 0.01) and (r = -0.49, P = 0.00) respectively. Multivariate regression analysis was performed taking age, Rancho, FIMa, mobility, GCS and LOSa variables as independent and FIMd as dependent variable. The model could explain 70% of variation. Conclusion: In our study Rancho level of cognitive functioning, FIMa and mobility variables were found most influential factors in functional outcome. Electrocardiographic characteristics of West-Asian and African Male athletes: the Qatari pre-participation screening experience Author Institution Mathew Wilson Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar Background: Electrocardiographic (ECG) alterations are common in athletes and usually reflect a physiologically benign remodelling of the heart as a response to regular intensive exercise, so called “athletes heart”. However, some features observed in an athlete’s ECG may represent an underlying inherited or congenital cardiovascular abnormality, potentially propagating sudden cardiac death (SCD). Purpose: To evaluate the electrocardiographic characteristics of West-Asian, Black and Caucasian male athletes competing in Qatar. Methods: Cardiovascular screening with resting electrocardiographic analysis of 1220 national-level athletes (800 West-Asian, 300 Black and 120 Caucasian) and 135 West-Asian controls attending pre-participation screening was performed. Results: Black African descent was an independent predictor of ‘uncommon’ ECG changes compared to West-Asian (OR 2.56, 95% CI 1.73-3.8, p<0.001) and Caucasian athletes (OR 3.5, 95% CI 1.56-8.02, p<0.001). Black athletes demonstrated a significantly greater prevalence of lateral T wave inversions than both West-Asian and Caucasian athletes (6.1% vs. 1.6% and 0%, p<0.05). Black athletes also demonstrated a greater frequency (p<0.05) of right atrial enlargement, 1st degree AV block and early repolarisation than WestAsian and Caucasian athletes. Seven athletes were identified with a disease associated with sudden death; with prevalence of cardiac disease was 2 times higher in Black athletes than West-Asian athletes (1% vs. 0.5%) - no cases verified in Caucasian athletes and West-Asian controls. Eighteen West-Asian and Black athletes were also identified with striking repolarisation abnormalities suggestive of a cardiomyopathy, ultimately, none were diagnosed with an inherited cardiac disease. Conclusions: West-Asian and Caucasian athletes demonstrate comparable rates of common and uncommon ECG modifications. Only Black ethnicity was positively associated with frequencies of ‘uncommon’ ECG alterations. Despite the greater number of false positive ECGs in Black athletes, the cost-benefit ratio of the preparticipation is favourable for this population due to its greater predictive value for identifying sudden death diseases. Biomedicine | Oral Presentations 24 | 25 BMO11 BMO12 WCMC-Qatar stem cell research program Author Institution Arash Rafii Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Due to the vision and foresight of HH Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al-Missned, Qatar is seeing rapid advances in the field of education and research due to the establishment of Education City by Qatar Foundation. Stem cell research is one of the major research areas worldwide and shows significant promise in helping healthcare and medicine reach frontiers never known to mankind before. The setting-up of a stem cell laboratory at WCMC-Qatar places Qatar on the world map in stem cell research. Not only does it ensure Qatar’s significant contribution to research, but also lays the foundation for an advanced system where people will have access to world class regenerative medical care. To be able to move forward with cell therapies, and in particular stem cell therapies, in areas as diverse as diabetes, cardio-vascular disease, and neurodegenerative disease, several components need to be established, including routine derivation and maintenance of different types of pluripotent stem cells; banking of these stem cells; differentiation of the different stem cells in different cell types. Stem cell research was one of the first research areas of focus at Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar. Since the establishment of the stem cell biology program we have achieved several milestones, including the establishment of a stem cell biology expertise in Qatar, creating a network of stem cell researchers including clinicians from Hamad Medical Corporation, and establishing international cooperation to answer all forthcoming challenges of regenerative medicine. This talk will focus on the logistics of setting up the stem cell laboratory and the promises in the future that such technology promises. Are novel semisolid filled hard gelatin capsules superior to currently marketed metformin tablets? Authors Institution Husam Mohammed Younes Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Purpose: To design, formulate and test the in vitro dissolution of new oral dosage forms of metformin hydrochloride (MH) in semisolid polymeric matrices having sustained-release properties suitable for once-a-day or twice-a-day administration that would increase MH bioavailability and also address the shortcomings in the currently marketed sustained-release tablets. Methods: MH was dispersed in molten polymeric matrices composed of various proportions of high molecular weight hydrophilic polymers, hydrophobic oily semisolid excipients, and muco-adhesive polymeric materials. Thermal analysis and X-ray diffractometry was carried out on the prepared semisolid matrices. Four prepared formulations each of which containing 400mg MH were filled into size zero hard gelatin capsules (HGC) and were subjected to in vitro dissolution testing using USP basket method at 50rpm using 1000ml distilled water as dissolution medium. MH was analyzed using UV spectrophotometric analysis. Glucophage® 500mg tablets were used as a reference. Results: The prepared formulations resulted in extended-release profiles that lasted between 6-8 hours and demonstrated bimodal release pattern which characterizes the release from mixes of triglycerides with polyethylene glycol esters of fatty acids. The incorporation of PEG 6000 or PEG 35000 resulted in an overall faster dissolution rate compared to other formulations with complete release achieved after 6 hours. On the other hand, PEG400 incorporation to the formulation resulted in a fast initial release followed by a slower release rate following the first 3 hours. Thermal and X-ray analysis of the formulations showed changes in MH crystallinity. Conclusion: Capsules formulated using semisolid matrices showed promising results in extending the release of MF compared to the marketed tablets. However, bioavailability studies to test the ability of those Gelucire-based capsules of MF to improve its bioavailability and residence time are future plans. Biomedicine | Oral Presentations 26 | 27 Poster Presentations BMO13 Biological characterization of Qatari and regional endemic plant extracts for cosmetic purposes Authors Institutions Talaat A. Ahmed, Aishaa Dasmal, Mashaal Alnaemi, Pasquale Vito Qatar University, Doha, Qatar BioGem, Ariano Irpino, Italy In ancient times, herbs, botanicals, fruit extracts, essential oils and natural minerals were the main ingredients for beauty products. Today, demand is growing for plant-based ingredients, as consumers increasingly view natural products as healthy, environmentally friendly and renewable. The present study, using modern methods and approaches and in vitro and in vivo test analyses, aims to characterize Qatari and regional endemic plant extracts in order to identify and purify specific active biomolecules for cosmetic purposes. Six plant species were collected from the area around Qatar University campus from April 2009 to September 2009, and were used for extract preparation using different solvents. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to fractionate the extracts, and fractionations were then tested on human embryonic kidney (HEK 293) cells. Cytotoxicity assay, immune and inflammatory responses were tested. Three extracts showed positive results, and further analysis is ongoing. The results are expected to be commercially important, especially for cosmetic and perfume industries. Biomedicine | Oral Presentations BMP1 Multimerization of the transient receptor proteins TRPV6 and TRPC1 Authors Institutions Raphael Jean Courjaret, Shirley Haun, Khaled Machaca Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) ion channels are formed by the juxtaposition of either homomeric or heteromeric assembly of four TRP subunits. TRP proteins have six transmembrane domains (TM) and a P-loop located between TM5 and TM6 that defines the channel pore. So far 30 different subunits, sharing as low as 20% homology, have been identified in mammals and classified in 6 families. Although heterotetramers can be formed within a family, the assembly of subunits from members of different families was thought to be unlikely. Here using biochemical and electrophysiological techniques we evaluated the interaction between xTRPV6 and xTRPC1 overexpressed in Xenopus oocytes. Western blot analysis of oocytes lysates revealed that the native cells expressed both xTRPC1 and xTRPV6. Oocytes were then injected with RNA encoding the two subunits associated or not with protein tags to allow easier immunoprecipitation. The later experiments revealed that xTRPC1 and xTRPV6 expressed in oocytes co-immunoprecipitate. The expression of solely xTRPC1 did not result in a detectable ionic current, whereas xTRPV6 injected oocytes displayed large inward rectifying cationic currents. Ion substitution experiments revealed that the xTRPV6 channel was more permeable to Mg2+ ions than Ca2+, a characteristic opposite to its mammalian counterpart. Co-expression of both subunits resulted in an ionic current mainly carried by Mg2+ ions. Experiments are now being performed in oocytes and in a human cell line to help us further understand Mg2+ and Ca2+ homeostasis and the contribution of different TRP subunits assemblies to it. 28 | 29 BMP2 BMP3 Production of novel proteins therapeutics for cancer treatment Author Institution Sayed Kamel Goda Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Antibody-directed enzyme prodrug therapy (ADEPT) is a novel strategy to improve the selectivity of cancer treatment. ADEPT is a two-step approach that seeks to generate a potent cytotoxic agent selectively at a tumor site. In the first step, a tumor-selective antibody is chemically linked to an enzyme such as glucarpidase and then administered intravenously. In the second step, a relatively non-toxic prodrug is administered. By this time, the antibody conjugate has been cleared from the blood and other tissues. Methotrexate (MTX), a synthetic folate analogue that inhibits dihydrofolate reductase, a key enzyme in the folate pathway, serves as an important component of various chemotherapeutic regimens for the treatment of cancer patients. One major drawback to the clinical use of MTX is an unacceptable level of toxicity. One of the most effective ways to achieve a rapid removal of the excess of these drugs is by glucarpidase degradation. Repeated cycles of ADEPT and the use of wild type glucarpidase in detoxification are essential but are hampered by the human antibody response to the enzyme. Additionally, glucarpidase has a relatively slow action in detoxification. We implemented a state-of-the-art technique, DNA shuffling, to overcome the problems associated with this technology. We successfully produced an ultra-active glucarpidase that degrades MTX with a very high efficency and we are continuing the production of more efficient forms. We also isolated and performed a molecular charaterisation on a novel glucarpidase which could be used in the ADEPT techniques for cancer treatment that could overcome the antibody problems. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations Evidence of intense ongoing endemic transmission of hepatitis C virus in Egypt Authors Institutions Laith Abu-Raddad, Miller DeWolfe Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI, USA Egypt has the highest prevalence of antibodies to hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the world, estimated nationally at 14.7%. An estimated 9.8% are chronically infected. Numerous HCV prevalence studies in Egypt have published various estimates from different Egyptian communities, suggesting that Egypt, relative to the other nations of the world, might be experiencing intense ongoing HCV transmission. More importantly, a new national study provided an opportunity to apply established epidemiologic models to estimate incidence. Validated mathematical models for estimating incidence from age-specific prevalence were used. All previous prevalence studies of HCV in Egypt were reviewed and used to estimate incidence provided that there was sufficient age-specific data required by the models. All reports of anti-HCV antibody prevalence were much higher than any other single national estimate. Age was the strongest and most consistently associated factor to HCV prevalence and HCV RNA positivity. It was not possible to establish a prior reference point for HCV prevalence or incidence to compare with the 2009 incidence estimates. The modeled incidence from the national study and collectively from the modeled incidence from the previous community studies was 6.9/1,000 [95% confidence interval (CI), 5.5–7.4] per person per year and 6.6/1,000 (95% CI, 5.1–7.0) per person per year, respectively. Projected to the age structure of the Egyptian population, more than 500,000 new HCV infections per year were estimated. Iatrogenic transmission is the most likely, underlining exposure to the ongoing transmission. The study demonstrates the urgency to reduce HCV transmission in Egypt. 30 | 31 BMP4 BMP5 Screening for and cloning and molecular characterization of two new oligopeptidase B encoding genes Authors Institution Fatma Baoumi Rashidi, Hatem El Shanti, Sayed Goda Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Oligopeptidase B (opdB, EC 3.4.21.83) is a member of the prolyl oligopeptidase family of serine peptidases and unrelated to the trypsin and subtilisin families. It is a potential processing enzyme of prokaryotes to produce biologically active products, being very specific for the basic amino acid pairs of polypeptides. Bacterial oligopeptidase B cleaves globular proteins, albeit in a highly restricted fashion. While most members of this peptidase family hydrolyse peptide bonds at the C-terminal side of proline residues, oligopeptidase B exhibits a trypsinlike substrate specificity, cleaving peptides after basic residues (arginine or lysine). Oligopeptidase B was first cloned and characterized from Escherichia coli, and has also been described in other prokaryotes. Similar enzymes have been found in plants and some other higher organisms. We report the isolation of two different new oligopeptidase B bacterial strains producers. We identified the two genes, designated opdB1 and opB2. The opdB genes encodes a 703-residue peptide with high homology to the oligopeptidase B family in prokaryotes. The isolated opdBs gave the highest similarity score to oligopeptidase B of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia strain K279a (GenBank AM743169). To reveal the structural and kinetic properties of oligopeptidase B in more detail, we have cloned, expressed, and purified the enzymes to produce sufficient material to help in physical investigations, including NMR and x-ray crystallographic measurements. We also carried out a molecular characterization study of the two enzymes. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations Potential role of inositol 1,4,5 - triphosphate receptors in the pathogenesis of hypertension Authors Institutions Abou Saleh Haissam, Shirley Haun, Nancy Rusch, Khaled Machaca Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, USA Inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate receptors (IP3R) are tetrameric intracellular channels that mediate the release of Calcium (Ca2+) from sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) into the cytosol in response to IP3 binding. Modulation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) contractility allows small arteries to regulate blood flow and determine peripheral vascular resistance and blood pressure levels. The level of contraction of VSMC relies on a rise in cytoplasmic Ca2+ mediated by IP3-dependent Ca2+ release and voltage dependent Ca2+ influx through L-type Ca2+ (CaL) channels. Strong evidence supports a role for the vascular CaL channels in hypertension but little is known about the functional role of IP3R including the modulation of IP3R-Ca2+ signaling by the vascular endothelium. The goal of this study is to elucidate the functional contribution of IP3R-Ca2+ signaling to the pathogenesis of hypertension. Our preliminary results showed that IP3R are up regulated in small mesenteric arteries of two different forms of hypertensive rats. In the same arteries, activation of IP3R results in accentuated vasoconstriction whereas the endothelium-derived nitric oxide exerts a tonic dilator influence. The findings of this study will greatly improve our basic understanding of the etiology of hypertension by defining the abnormalities of IP3-dependent Ca2+ signaling and contraction in VSMC and its regulation by the endothelium. This may provide critical insights into the pathogenesis of hypertension, and set the groundwork for developing novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of hypertensive disease. 32 | 33 BMP6 BMP7 Molecular characterization and structure determination of human ADAMTSL4 Authors Institution Yasmin Walid Abu aqel, Abdulghani Kohilan, Hatem El Shanti, Sayed Kamel Goda The impact of interventions on HIV transmission among couples in sub-Saharan Africa Authors Institution Hiam Chemaitelly, Laith Abu Raddad Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar The thrombospondin type 1 repeat (TSR) is an ancient extracellular protein domain that is commonly found in invertebrate and vertebrate proteins. The ADAMTSL4 protein, also known as TSRC1, belongs to the TSR superfamily and has multiple thrombospondin repeats, most of which are clustered at the C-terminus. It has been reported that some TSP1 domain-containing proteins, e.g. thrombospondin 1 and thrombospondin 2, could induce apoptosis of endothelial cells but it is not clear how these proteins operate in death pathways. Our recent work shows that mutations in ADAMTSL4 are responsible for autosomal-recessive isolated ectopia lentis, i.e. abnormal positioning of the lens of the eye and affect the development of the zonular fiber. However, little is known about the function of ADAMTSL4. To shed more light on the function of the ADMTSL4 and its roles in different tissues we extended our work to carry out molecular characterization of this gene and its variants. We have obtained cDNA clones encoding the full ADAMTSL4 protein and its truncated isoform. Both are subcloned into the pET28a vector for expression in E. coli. In anticipation of possible expression challenges in this host, e.g. formation of inclusion bodies or lack of expression, we subcloned each fragment into the yeast vector, pYES2. The gene in both cases has been fused in frame with a region encoding an N-terminal His-Tag to facilitate the purification of the recombinant protein. DNA analysis indicates that each fragment has been correctly cloned into the pYES2 vector. Each construct was transformed into Saccharomyces cerevisiae for protein expression. Our preliminary analysis indicates that one of the genes is expressed in S. cerevisiae but at a very low level. Work to optimize the expression of ADAMTSL4 in yeast as well as in E. coli is in progress. We also extracted the seven domains of the ADAMTSL4 using PCR. Each domain was subcloned into the E. coli overexpression vector, pET28a. Expression studies of all the constructs have shown that the seven domains have been successfully overexpressed in E. coli. The overexpression was confirmed using Western blot techniques. The recombinant protein of each domain is purified for NMR and x-ray studies. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations Background: In areas highly endemic with HIV, discordancy is prevalent among couples affected by HIV, where a substantial proportion of infected individuals are in stable sexual relationships with non-infected individuals. Designing a package of interventions to reduce HIV incidence among discordant partnerships is critical. We assessed quantitatively the impact of four interventions (antiretroviral therapy (ART), pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), condoms with and with no access to couple-based voluntary counseling and testing program (VCT), and male circumcision (MC)) on HIV incidence among a cohort of discordant couples at varying levels of efficacy, adherence, eligibility, and coverage. Methods: A mathematical model was constructed to assess the impact of interventions and was parameterized by the best available evidence from clinical trials and observational studies. Uncertainty analyses were also conducted. Results: Assuming full eligibility and coverage, ART, PrEP, condoms with (and with no) access to couple-based VCT, and MC reduced HIV incidence rate over three years by 69%, 37%, 36% (4.3%), and 19% respectively. Combining two interventions at a time led to a range of incidence rate reduction of 22%-82%; while combining three interventions led to a range of 76%-89%. Combining all four interventions reduced incidence rate by 92%. However, assuming realistic levels of eligibility, coverage, and adherence; ART, PrEP, condoms with (and with no) access to couple-based VCT, and MC reduced HIV incidence rate by 34%, 15%, 36% (2.3%), and 10%, respectively. An intervention package with two (three) interventions simultaneously reduced incidence rate between 12%-59% (24%-66%) depending on the eligibility and coverage conditions. Combining all 4 interventions reduced the incidence rate by 71%. Conclusions: Despite substantial biological efficacy, the impact of each individual intervention is diluted at realistic levels because of eligibility, coverage, and adherence. However, combining multiple interventions can lead to large reductions in HIV incidence rate. ART is especially effective if combined with at least one other intervention and administered at intermediate to high levels of eligibility, coverage and adherence. 34 | 35 BMP8 BMP9 Polymorphism in adiponectin receptor gene type 1 (ADIPOR1) in individuals with coronary artery disease with and without type 2 diabetes in the state of Qatar The spectrum of Mediterranean fever (MEFV) mutations title in an Arabic cohort Authors Author Institution Nasser Mostafa Rizk Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Background: Previous studies demonstrated polymorphisms of adiponectin receptor type1 (AdipoR1) as a strong determinant of coronary artery diseases (CAD) susceptibility in type 2 diabetes. The aim of the study is to investigate the associations of the genetic marker (SNP) no of AdipoR1 locus; rs10920531 with CAD in patients with and without type 2 diabetes in the population of Qatar. Methods: Blood was drawn from a total of 189 subjects. For the detection of the SNP (rs10920531, and rs7539542), extracted DNA was carried out by the 5’ nuclease assay using TaqMan MGB probe by means of an ABI 7900 [Applied Biosystems]. Results: Both groups of CAD, with and without diabetes mellitus (DM) had insignificant difference within the following parameters; age, BMI, glucose, lipid profile, cardiac enzyme markers, insulin and adiponectin. Females were 8.4% of all studied patients. The odds ratio and the frequency distribution of the genotype (rs1092531, A>C) revealed that (35.1%), [35.8%], had AA and (41.5%), [41.1%] had AC, and (23.4.0%), [23.1%] had CC among in control and cardiac patients with and without DM, respectively with P value=0.94. The odds ratio was 1.02 and 95% CI was (0.85-1.43). The frequency distribution of the genotype (rs7539542, C>G) revealed that (34.0%), [41.1%], had CC and (47.9%), [34.7%] had CG, and (18.1.0%), [24.2%] had GG among control and cardiac patients with and without DM, respectively with P value=0.37. The odds ratio was 0.98 and 95% CI was (0.65-1.47). The odds ratio was 0.77 for rs1092531, A>C and 0.92 for rs7539542, C>G among cardiac patients with and without diabetes. Using logistic regression analysis, LDL-C was significantly associated with both rs1092531, A>C and rs7539542, C>G in CAD patients. Hypertension was significantly associated with rs7539542. Conclusion: No significant association was found between AdipoR1 locus; (rs1092531, A>C and rs7539542, C>G) and the cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks. Of all CVD risks, Only LDL-C correlated significantly with (rs1092531, A>C and rs7539542, C>G). Hypertension was significantly associated with s7539542. Further studies are needed among the Qatari population to screen polymorphisms of the entire diponectin gene and its receptors. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations Institutions Abdulghani Abdullah Kohilan, Rowaida Taha, Djouher Ait Idir, Dina Ahram, Hassan Abdel Majeed, Mohammed El Khateeb, Jamil Alami, Hatem El Shanti Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Université M’Hamed Bougara de Boumerdès, Boumerdès, Algeria Jordan University Hospital, Amman, Jordan Autoinflammatory diseases are a group of disorders characterized by seemingly unprovoked inflammation in the absence of high-titer autoantibodies or antigenspecific T cells. Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autosomal recessive disorder and the archetypal autoinflammatory disease. It is characterized by recurrent self-limiting episodes of fever and painful polyserositis. FMF is prevalent in specific ethnic groups namely, non-Ashkenazi Jews, Armenians, Turks, and Arabs. The gene responsible for FMF, MEFV, was identified in 1997. There seems to be a distinctive clinical picture in Arab patients with FMF, and the range and distribution of MEFV mutations is different from that noted in other commonly affected ethnic groups. The aim of this study was to delineate the distribution of MEFV mutations amongst an Arabic FMF patient cohort and to assist the genotype-phenotype correlation in these patients. We collected DNA samples from 406 FMF patients (from Qatar, Jordan, Algeria and Palestine) who have been clinically diagnosed with FMF. We designed primers to cover the entire genomic region of MEFV. Mutation detection is done by resequencing the entire coding sequence and splice sites then the rest of the genomic region and the promoter will be sequenced as a second tier. So far we have identified 283 (out of 676) mutant alleles by sequencing exon 10, the main hot spot for MEFV mutations (M694V, V726A, M694I, M680IGC, M680IGA, R653H, A744S and R761H). In addition, four novel variations were identified in our cohort in exons 3, 5, 2 & 10, and we are currently investigating the phenotypic significance of these novel variations. The spectrum of MEFV mutations in Arabs seems different from other ethnic groups commonly affected by FMF. The identifiable disease causing alleles are the lowest amongst the commonly affected ethnic groups. The low number of identified alleles suggests the presence of mutations within unexamined regions, such as conserved intronic sequences or the involvement of modifier genes. 36 |37 BMP10 BMP11 Preliminary results of a multilingual, multicultural survey design Authors Institutions Amal Mohamed Khidir, Michael Fetters, Maha Elnashar, Huda Abdulrahim, Abdul Latif Al Khal, Sara Al-Rawi, Maya Hammoud Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar University of Michigan, Dearborn, MI, USA Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Ethical issues in genetic research Authors Institution Fouad Al Shaban Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Genetic research raises ethical issues that differ in many ways from those that arise in other kinds of human subject research. Introduction: The United States Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has invested heavily in the Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS). Funded by the Qatar National Research Fund, a research team formed of 3 collaborative institutions; Weill Cornell Medical College-Qatar (WCMC-Q), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) and University of Michigan (UM), is working on translating, adapting and modifying CAHPS to generate QCAHPS, an instrument relevant to Qatar and the region population. It is a five-phase project. Objectives: To translate the existing CAHPS into Arabic, Hindi and Urdu, identify “translation dilemmas”, and to explore patients’ assessment of translation dilemmas and quality of ambulatory care visits based on their own cultural context and preferred language with four linguistic groups, English, Arabic, Hindi, and Urdu. Methods: Recruitment of qualified research assistants and reviewers (Qatar team) followed by training on interviewing, coding and naming protocols was done. Ethical board approvals from the 3 participating institutions were obtained. Translation of CAHPS highlighted key points under investigation by participants recruited in each target language. Based on interviews of 35 of the targeted 80 interviews, emerging themes of importance have been identified. Results: Themes noted include: participants repeatedly expressed that the clinical experience of the doctor is more important than cultural awareness, or religion. There were reservations regarding the doctor’s gender when it came to gynecological or genito-urinary system examinations. The term used for a regularly-seen health provider is “Family Doctor” for Hindi, “Regular Doctor” for Urdu and “Specialist’ for Arabic and English speaking participants. Although participants were satisfied with services received, the main concerns were lack of interpretation services and communication issues, inefficient appointment system and long waiting time. Handling compensation was noted by research assistants as a sensitive issue. Aside from the generally low likelihood of injury from drawing blood, the harms that might result to subjects once the genetic data is obtained range from minor to major, from physiological to psychosocial and even economic. Disclosure of results may cause loss or increased cost of health and/or life insurance, discrimination and stigmatization. In this presentation, I am going to discuss the issue through the followings: 1. Privacy and confidentiality • Unlike other kinds of health data, genetic information applies to or is about more than one person. (parents, siblings, children, and perhaps others). • Research that includes follow-up studies requires that a subjects unique information be linked to the genetic information. • For this and other reasons, many investigators seek to unlink personal identifiers from genetic data or biological specimens. • Successful unlinking reduces or eliminates some threats to privacy and confidentiality. 2. Informed consent • The participant should be adequately informed. • Consent should be free from coercion or undue influence. • The participant should be fully competent. 3. Risks of harm • The idea of testing can cause pre- and post-test anxiety. • Disclosure of results may result in employment and social bias, discrimination and stigmatization. • Family members of the index subject may face similar risks of harm. The presentation also tackles the subject of research on stored biological samples and the ethical issues, with discussion of the laws and regulations applicable. Conclusion: Our preliminary findings show some important themes that are worth noting and considering in survey design and multicultural and multilingual research. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations 38 | 39 BMP12 BMP13 Cyanobacteria and BMAA exposure from desert dust – a possible link to sporadic ALS among Gulf War veterans Author Institution Renee Ann Richer Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Veterans of the 1990-1991 Gulf War have been reported to have an increased incidence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) compared to personnel who were not deployed. An excess of ALS cases was diagnosed in Gulf War veterans younger than 45 years of age. Increased ALS among Gulf War veterans appears to be an outbreak time-limited to the decade following the Gulf War. Seeking to identify biologically plausible environmental exposures, we have focused on inhalation of cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins carried by dust in the Gulf region, particularly Qatar. Cyanobacterial crusts and mats are widespread in the deserts of Qatar, occupying up to 56% of the available area in some microhabitats. These cyanobacterial crusts, which help bind the desert sands, are dormant throughout most of the year, but during brief spring rains actively photosynthesize. When disturbed by vehicular traffic or other military activities, the dried crusts and mats can produce significant dust. Using high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. (HPLC/FD) an amino acid analyzer, ultraperformance liquid chromatograpy/mass spectrometry (UPLC/ MS), and triple quadrupole liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS), we found that the dried crusts and mats contained neurotoxic cyanobacterial toxins, including -N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) and 2,4 diaminobutyric acid (DAB). If dust containing cyanobacteria is inhaled, significant exposure to BMAA and other cyanotoxins may occur. We suggest that inhalation of BMAA, DAB, and other aerosolized cyanotoxins may constitute a significant risk factor for the development of ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. Characterization of the LPIN2 gene and its protein and examination of its role in psoriasis Authors Institution Mazen Osman, Goda Sayed, Jamil Alami, Hatem El Shanti Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease posing a considerable world-wide health problem due to its high prevalence, associated morbidity and high health-care costs. It is a multifactorial “complex” disorder, with compelling evidence for a genetic predisposition. Majeed syndrome is a Mendelian disorder with a consistent phenotype and its causative gene can be examined for its role in the more common bone and skin inflammatory disorders of complex etiology. Majeed syndrome is caused by mutations in LPIN2. Many observations have implicated LPIN2 in the genetic etiology of psoriasis. Based on these observations, we hypothesize that variations in LPIN2 play a role in the susceptibility to development of psoriasis and that LPIN2 is the psoriasis susceptibility locus on 18p. In our previous study, we identified 6 coding variants that may be associated with psoriasis due to the fact that they change evolutionary conserved amino acids and they are present in the general population at a very low allele frequency. However, the ultimate evidence of their causation of the phenotype is to prove that there is a change in protein properties or function with the molecular variations. One of the aims of the current work is to shed light on whether each identified LPIN2 mutation has an effect on the integrity of the properties of the Lipin2 protein and therefore its function. The wide type and six different cDNA LPIN2 clones, each harboring one of the six described variations were successfully synthesised after codon optimisation for maximum expression in yeast. The LPIN2 gene and two mutants were excised from its original construct and inserted into similarly digested pYES2. The newly formed constructs were transformed into competent cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for protein expression. Our preliminary analyses using SDS gel electrophoresis and Western blot indicate that the wild type and the two mutants are expressed in S. cerevisiae but at a low level. Optimization of the expression as well as expression of these genes in different expression system is being carried out. The recombinant protein of the wild type LPIN2 and the two mutants will be subjected to circular dichroism and fluorescence measurements to study the effect of each mutant on the folding and therefore the function of the protein. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations 40 | 41 BMP14 BMP15 Patient opinion of the Doctor-Patient relationship in a public hospital in Qatar Author Institution Alan Weber Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Objective: To analyze factors associated with the level of satisfaction of outpatients with their relationship with their doctor at the largest public hospital in Qatar (Hamad General Hospital). Methods: Researchers surveyed 628 outpatients at Hamad General Hospital in Doha from September, 2009 to January, 2010 using a novel questionnaire designed to assess satisfaction with patients’ interaction(s) with their doctor (time spent with patient, took case seriously, maintained confidentiality, overall quality of visit). Demographic variables on each responder were also collected, including age, gender, citizenship, educational level, and cultural and geographic information related to both patient and physician. Results: Mean responses on 4 key doctor-patient Likert scale survey items (1 to 5) were as follows: “spent enough time with patient” = 4.39; “doctor took case seriously” = 4.57; “satisfaction with doctor-patient confidentiality” = 4.71; “overall quality of visit to the doctor” = 4.46. Age, gender, citizenship, level of education, and number of visits did not significantly impact the level of satisfaction. For 73.1% of patients, the physician’s qualification was the most important factor in choosing a doctor. Of those surveyed, 40.7% of men and 28.1% of women preferred to see a doctor of their own gender. A positive correlation between perceived communication and satisfaction with the doctor-patient encounter was established. Conclusions: Patients in the out-patient department at the largest public hospital in Qatar were highly satisfied with the amount of time their physician spent with them, the seriousness with which the physician treated their case, the degree of doctor-patient confidentiality, and the overall quality of their visit. The high satisfaction rates may be the result of large investments in public health services funding in Qatar over the past 10 years. Qualification of the doctor was identified as the most significant factor in choosing a doctor. A significant number of males and females preferred a physician of their own gender. The positive correlation uncovered between perceived communication difficulty and lower satisfaction with the doctorpatient encounter should be the subject of more focused studies in light of the multicultural medical environment of Qatar hospitals. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations Influence of the glycemic load (GL) on subjective and objective measures of sleep quality in insomnia Authors Institutions Christopher Herrera, Patricia Ruell, Helen O’Connor, Chin Moi Chow Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia Evidence in healthy sleepers suggests the glycemic index (GI) can mediate changes in sleep onset latency, given the availability of tryptophan to the brain (i.e. TRP/LNAA ratio) is increased after high GI carbohydrate-only food. However, these meals have limited clinical application given the high glycemic load (GL) and insulin responses. Therefore, we investigated the efficacy of a mixed macronutrient high GI (MHGI) compared to an isoenergetic (~1915 kJ) low GI (MLGI) meal taken three hours prior to habitual bedtime to improve sleep quality in participants meeting research diagnostic criteria for insomnia. Four men and four women (n=8) were randomized to the MHGI or MLGI meal for two consecutive nights. Blood samples were taken prior to the meal, and 60, 120, 180 min after eating. Subjective (sleep diary) and objective (polysomnography, PSG) sleep was also measured each night. The individual 10cm visual analogue scales indicate that meal palatability was identical for both meals; which were of good taste (average 7.8cm); meal satiety was maintained until bedtime after the MHGI meal (>5cm), whereas after the MLGI meal satiety ratings in men were low (<5cm); and the average meal energetic load (kJ/kg) was greater for women (33.0 ± 4.1) than men (25.4 ± 3.8; p<0.05). Postprandial measures indicate glucose was larger after the MHGI meal but there was no difference in insulin response; the peak percentage rise in plasma TRP/ LNAA from baseline after the MHGI meal (17%) was substantially but only marginally different than the MLGI (8%) meal (p = 0.12); postprandial serotonin was unaltered. The participant group self-reported (5pt Likert scale) feeling more rested after the MHGI (2.8) compared to the MLGI meal (2.3; p<0.05); also ratings were higher in women (3.0) than in men (2.6; p<0.05). There were no differences in PSG sleep variables. This study demonstrates symptoms of insomnia are improved, especially in women, after a high GI mixed macronutrient meal. Given the present data, we suggest the possibility for a physiological threshold within the postprandial plasma TRP/LNAA response that must be surpassed in order to promote measurable changes to serotonin and PSG sleep. Further studies should evaluate the potential long-term risks and benefits of habitual mixed macronutrient high GI meals to improve sleep. 42 | 43 BMP16 BMP17 Detection and classification of human movement (DC-MOVE) Authors Institutions Tamer Khattab, Amr Mohamed, Khaled Shaban, Basim Uthman, Leopold Streletz, Adnan Abu-Dayya Nascent HIV epidemics among men who have sex with men appear to be emerging in the Middle East and North Africa Authors Institution Ghina Mumtaz, Laith Abu-Raddad Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Qatar University Wireless Innovations Center, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Characteristic movements of human body parts ranging from eye twitches to limbs jerky movements have been used for decades by physicians as clinical indicators of certain neurological disorders. Through a multidisciplinary research approach, our team, composed of medical experts, signal-processing specialists, wireless sensing experts, and computer scientists, aims at developing a sophisticated framework for automatic characterization of certain clinical conditions via identification of a proposed unique sequence (a signature pattern) of limb movements in relation to other body parts. We argue that a set of movement data collected from human subjects via strategically located movement sensors fused with other supporting data, such as gyroscopic movements and relative locations of sensors, can be processed by advanced intelligent signal processing techniques. Using medical expert systems fed with knowledge provided by the contributing medical experts this can be used to characterize and classify typical and atypical human movements. The collected data is then processed using machine learning algorithms which is trained to automatically detect and characterize a set of movement disorders and classify them into specific clinical diagnosis such as specific types of seizures. In particular, our work ambitiously aims at developing a prototype proof-of-concept seizure remote monitoring and detection system. This would demonstrate the applicability of our developed methodology in real-life scenarios, using commercial of-the-shelf wireless sensing platforms coupled to our intelligent expert-based signal-processing platform. We believe that the outcomes of this applied research will pave the roads for new methods in clinical diagnosis of various neurological diseases and monitoring progress and outcome of treatment that will, in turn, reduce human suffering and medical costs. Further, when coupled with our wireless technology and positioning methods, DC-MOVE can initiate or trigger an alerting response that could be life-saving. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations Background: Men who have sex with men (MSM) in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) forms a highly hidden population, and there are widely held perceptions of virtually nonexistent data on MSM and HIV in this region. Our objective was to delineate, for the first time, the evidence on the epidemiology of HIV among MSM in MENA. Methods: This was a systematic review of all biological, behavioral, and contextual data on HIV and MSM in MENA. Sources of data included Medline using free text and MeSH headings, international organizations’ reports and databases, country-level reports and databases including governmental and nongovernmental organizations publications, as well as various other institutional documents. Results: This review showed that there is considerable data on MSM and HIV in MENA. The prevalence of HIV among MSM in MENA countries ranged between 0 and 15%. By 2008, the contribution of MSM transmission to the total HIV notified cases increased and exceeded 25% in many countries. The high levels of risk behavior (2-42 partners on average in the last year) and of biomarkers of risks (HSV-2 at 3-54%), the overall low rate of consistent condom use (2-22%), the relative frequency of male sex work (20-76%), and the substantial overlap with heterosexual risk behavior and injecting drug use (up to 17% of MSM inject drugs and up to 37% of male injecting drug users exchange sex for money) suggest potential for further spread. Conclusions: This systematic review and data synthesis indicated that HIV appears to be spreading among MSM in at least a few countries and could be already in a concentrated state among several MSM groups. There is a need to expand surveillance and access to HIV testing, prevention, and treatment services in a rapidly narrowing window of opportunity to prevent the worst of HIV transmission among MSM in MENA. 44 | 45 BMP18 BMP19 Cardiovascular risk factors in metabolically diverse, non-diabetic Qatari women Authors Institution Wade Knez, M Farooq Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar Background: Recent trends suggest that the sharpest increases in the prevalence of obesity are in countries of the Middle East, such as Qatar, especially amongst women. A diet rich in fat and carbohydrates, combined with a lack of physical exercise, may be contributing factors to the obesity epidemic in the region. Obesity is manifest by an expansion in adipose tissue. In South Asian populations much of the increase in fat accumulation appears to be in the omental abdominal compartments. Proinflammatory signals derived from adipose tissue, adipokines, such as leptin, MCP-1 and IL-6, may contribute directly to the development of insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction of obesity. Purpose: To assess the relationship between indices of obesity, body composition, physical fitness, glycaemia, insulinaemia, serum lipids and adipokines in a cohort of Qatari women. Methods: Non-diabetic, premenopausal, Qatari women (n=143; age mean (SD) years) were studied in the morning after an overnight fast. Indices of obesity (BMI and waist circumference), body composition (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)), aerobic fitness, blood lipids (cholesterol, high-density lipoproteins (HDL), lowdensity lipoproteins (LDL), triglycerides), glycaemia (glucose, HbA1-C), serum insulin, inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6)) and adipokines (adiponectin, leptin) were determined. Results: A greater degree of central/trunkal obesity was apparent in this cohort. Significant associations were found between BMI and insulin (p<0.01), HbA1-C (p<0.01) and abdominal adiposity (p<0.01). In the whole group, BMI was not related to inflammatory markers or adipokines. However, sub-group analysis based on WHO criteria for obesity showed that the obese (BMI 30-40kg.m-2) and morbidly obese (BMI >40.1 kg.m-2) women were more insulinaemic, had higher levels of inflammatory markers (CRP, RANTES, MCP-1, leptin) and lower adiponectin compared to normal weight (BMI<25kg.m-2) subjects. The obese groups were significantly less fit compared to the normal weight women, but had greater bone strength and comparable levels of circulating lipids. Regulation of mammalian odorant receptor genes Authors Institution Benjamin Shykind Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Smell is an essential sense that allows animals to find food and mates while avoiding predators. In humans smell is considered an aesthetic sensory modality, but olfactory disorders may presage neurological disease including Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and schizophrenia. The odorant receptors (ORs) comprise the largest gene family in mammals and endow an animal with the ability to smell. Critical to the development and function of olfaction is the regulation of OR gene transcription, with each sensory neuron selecting just one OR for expression, at random, from only one allele. While recent experiments have brought the outlines of this remarkable process into focus, the core mechanism has remained obscure. Using a genetic approach in mice we present data that supports a model of single OR gene choice initiated by infrequent, stochastic transcriptional activation and governed by feedback suppression mechanism. In the face extreme requirements for diversity, cells and organisms have evolved stochastic processes of gene regulation. Such mechanisms may allow for the maximal exploration of critical biochemical, genetic, or cellular spaces and maximize the informational output of the genome. The pursuit of the solution to this question of gene regulation has captivated the biomedical research community - not only in the area of neurobiology. The elucidation of this problem will shed light on the establishment and function of this sensory system and also further our understanding of the regulation of the largest gene family in mammals. Additionally, these findings will have central relevance for other examples of stochastic gene regulation such as the expression of the lymphocyte antigen receptors, X chromosome inactivation, for diverse diseaserelated processes such as trypanosome vsg and malaria var gene switching, and the functional (epigenetic) loss of heterozygosity in cancer; all of which likely depend on complex transcriptional processes. Conclusion: Obesity in premenopausal Qatari women is associated with a higher degree of fat accumulation, especially in the central depots, than has been reported for European women. It is accompanied by hyperinsulinaemia, inflammation and poor aerobic fitness but surprisingly free of dyslipidaemia. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations 46 47 ||47 47 BMP20 BMP21 Mutations in IL1RN in bone and skin inflammation Authors Institution Nammat Khattab, Suad Al Dosari, Mazan Osman, Asma Al Dosari, Jamil Al Alami, Hatem El Shanti Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Associations of adipocytokines and anthropometric measurements of the newborns of pregnant women with abnormal screening of 50g glucose tolerance test in State of Qatar Author Institution Nasser Mostafa Rizk Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Autoinflammatory diseases are a group of disorders characterized by seemingly unprovoked inflammation in the absence of high-titer autoantibodies or antigenspecific T cells. They include familial Mediterranean fever; the tumor necrosis factor receptor–associated periodic syndrome; the hyper-IgD syndrome; a syndrome of pyogenic arthritis, pyoderma gangrenosum and acne; the cryopyrin-associated periodic syndromes; chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis and others. A new autoinflammatory syndrome of skin and bone caused by recessive mutations in IL1RN, the gene encoding the interleukin-1–receptor antagonist, has been recently described and has been named deficiency of the interleukin-1-receptor antagonist, or DIRA. Background: Adipose tissue secretes several adipocytokines that may play an important role in development of insulin resistance during pregnancy. The aim of this study is to investigate the associations of these adipocytokines with anthropometric measurements of the newborns of pregnant women with abnormal 50g glucose tolerance test [GTT] results. Three unrelated patients with symptoms suggestive of DIRA were referred to our laboratory. The three patients had skin and bone inflammation since birth manifested as pustulosis and chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis. The course of the disease was progressive with chronic sequelae. Two patients were from Brazil and the third is from Palestine. We identified a novel homozygous inframe deletion of 15 bases (c.213228delAGATGTGGTACCCAT; p.72-77delDVVPI) in the two unrelated patients from Brazil. In the Palestinian patient, a homozygous nonsense mutation (c.160C>T; p.Q54X) was identified. This mutation has been described before in a family from Lebanon, which probably reflects on a founder effect in Middle Eastern populations. Results: 100g [GTT] showed that 60% were normal [C] and 40 % had impaired glucose tolerance [IGTT]. Of all biochemical measured, only glucose (fasting, 1h, 2h, and 3h) and insulin were significantly higher in [IGTT] group than [C] group. Mean values ±SD; Il-6 (2.56±1.16 vs. 2.49±1.63 pg/ml, p=0.80), TNF-α (3.86±2.52 vs. 5.16±3.45 pg/ml, p=0.07), Hs-CRP (48.59±17.03 vs. 50.18±18.19 ng/ml, p=0.69), and total adiponectin (15.97±8.09 vs. 14.65±7.15 μg/ml, p=0.31) among [C] and [IGTT], respectively. No significant differences were observed for anthropometric measurements studied such as birth weight (3209.66±463.57 vs. 3558.50±80.66 g, p=0.74), placenta weight [PW], ponderal index [PI] and birth weight/placental weight index [FPI] between [C] and [IGTT] groups, respectively. TNF-α was positively correlated significantly with Il-6 (r=0.29, P=0.012), PW (r=0.48, P=0.017) and negatively with FPI (r= -0.47, P=0.019), gestational age ”GA”(r=-0.41, P=-0.043) and total adiponectin (r=-0.28, P=0.016). Methods: The study subjects included all pregnant women (n=85) of matched age and BMI, that showed abnormal results to 50g [GTT]. During 100g [GTT], fasting blood samples were analyzed for glucose, lipid profile, IL-6, TNF-α, Hs-CRP, insulin, and total adiponectin. Conclusion: Marked hyperglycemia and hyperinsulinemia were observed in IGTT. Of all adipokines measured, TNF-α had a significant relationship with PW, FPI, and GA. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations 48 | 49 BMP22 BMP23 Homozygosity mapping identifies additional loci for primary ciliary dyskinesia in two Qatari families Authors Institutions Ammar Al Sarraj, Ibrahim Janahi, Ammar Sadoon, Asma Al-Dosari, Sara Mohammed, Jamil Al-Alami, Hatem El Shanti The genetic association of CYP2C19 allele with clopidogrel treatment in myocardial infarction Authors Institution Nasser Mostafa Risk Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Primary ciliary dyskinesia is a heterogeneous autosomal recessive genetic disorder that leads to ultrastructural and functional defects of cilia. This leads to recurrent and persistent respiratory infections, sinusitis, otitis media, and male infertility. In a fraction of patients situs inversus is present. Primary ciliary dyskinesia can result from mutation in at least nine different genes. However, these mutations are responsible for the disease in 40 percent of patients. These genes provide instructions for making proteins that form the inner structure of cilia and produce the force needed for motility. We identified two large inbred Qatari families with multiple individuals affected by primary ciliary dyskinesia. As a first step we excluded all known genes associated with the disorder. We then performed whole genome genotyping using 200K SNP chips on an Illumina platform followed by homozygosity mapping. In one family two significant homozygous regions were identified, a 35 Mb region on the long arm of chromosome 3 and a 46 Mb region on the long arm of chromosome 5. In the second family single homozygous regions was identified on the short arm of chromosome 5 spanning 3.2Mb. Candidate genes were prioritized based on conservation through evolution and expression in cilia. Examination of candidate genes by resequencing is currently being performed. Background: Major adverse cardiac events, including thrombosis and cardiac stroke, represent life-threatening conditions that need to be analyzed from every perspective including: life-style and genetic background. There is growing evidence that such ischemic events are more prone to arise in populations with a certain genetic background. With appropriate treatment and significant improvements in technology, genetics analysis of many diseases has become readily available and are easier to perform. In this paper we studies the genetic association of CYP2C19 allelic variants *2,*5 and *17 polymorphisms on the response to clopidogrel antipla telet treatment in post-myocardial infarction patients. Method: 5 ml of blood was drawn from 42 cardiac patients on antiplatelet therapy. For the detection of the CYP2C19*5, CYP2C19*17, CYP2C19*2, extracted DNA was carried out by the 5’ nuclease assay using TaqMan MGB probe by means of an ABI 7900 [Applied Biosystems). Results: Results have shown that there is significant association between CYP2C19*17 mutation and clinical outcome in TT patients carrying the mutant allele (p=0.048). As for CYP2C19*5 (p=0.917) and CYP2C19*2(p=0.09) mutations results have shown no significant association between CYP2C19*5 and *2 response to plavix, although CT/TT and GA/AA mutations have shown more recurrent ischemic events and death than wild type genotypes. Conclusion: Mutations in CYP2C19*17 has an effect on clopidogrel response, while CYP2C19*2 and *5 are not significantly associated with such low response. Further studies are needed with a larger sample size. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations 50 | 51 BMP24 BMP25 Molecular analysis of phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene from dried blood spots from Libyan phenylketonuria patients Authors Institutions Hamda Saleh Al Mutawa, Kamila Elrfifi, Adel Zeglam, Tawfeg Ben-Omran, Fawzia Aboureyana, Suad Al-Hmadi, Hatem El Shanti Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Al Jalaa Children’s Hospital, Tripoli, Libya Al Khadra Hospital, Tripoli, Libya Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism due to deficiency in the phenylalanine hydroxylase gene (PAH). This study describes the distribution of PAH mutations in nine probands from Libya with the diagnosis of phenylketonuria and hyperphenylalaninemia. Molecular genetics screening was done at the Shafallah Medical Genetics Center laboratory by resequencing and analysis of the entire coding sequences, exon flanking regions and splice sites of PAH. Genomic DNA was isolated from dry blood spots (n=9) by organic extraction technique and purified using centrifugal column filter device. The 13 exons , exon-intron boundaries and splice sites of the PAH were amplified by polymerase chain reaction using in-house designed primers and optimized conditions. The DNA sequencing reactions were carried out by automated sequencer using BigDye Terminator chemistry. Two homologous PAH mutations were found in 7/9 probands and were c.838G>A/p. E280K (missense) and c.1055delG (frame shift). The frame shift mutation produces a truncated protein of 399 amino acid length. Two Probands were homozygous for the missense mutation, three were homozygous for the frame shift mutation and two were compound heterozygous for both mutations. This initial study should be followed by an analysis of phenotype – genotype correlation pattern to better understand the disease process. Repeated sprinting on natural grass impairs vertical stiffness but doesn’t alter plantar loading in Qatari soccer players Authors Institutions Olivier Girard, Sebastian Racinais, Luke Kelly, Grégoire Millet, Franck Brocherie Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland Qatar Football Association, Doha, Qatar Background: The ability of players to recover and reproduce sprint performance is a crucial fitness component in soccer. In recent years, there has been an exponential interest in the study of neuro-physiological mechanisms limiting performance during repeated-sprint tests, whereas relatively little attention has been given to the biomechanical manifestation of fatigue. Understanding such factors is critical to performance enhancement and injury prevention strategies in soccer. Aim: This study aimed to determine changes in spring-mass model characteristics, plantar pressures and muscle activity induced by the repetition of sprints in soccer-specific conditions i.e. on natural grass with soccer shoes. Methods: Thirteen soccer players, members of two under nineteen Qatar Youth League teams, performed 6 x 20m sprints interspersed with 20s of passive recovery. Plantar pressure distribution was recorded via an insole pressure recorder device divided into nine areas for analysis. Stride temporal parameters allowed the estimation of spring-mass model characteristics. Surface electromyographic activity was monitored for vastus lateralis, rectus femoris and biceps femoris muscles. Results: Sprint time, contact time and total stride duration lengthened from the first to the last repetition (+6.7%, +12.9% and +9.3%; all p<0.05), while flight time, swing time and stride length remained constant. Stride frequency decrease across repetitions approached significance (-6.8%; p=0.07). No main effect of the sprint number nor any significant interaction between sprint number and foot region was found for maximal force, mean force, peak and mean pressure (all p>0.05). Center of mass vertical displacement increased (p<0.01) with time, together with unchanged (both p>0.05) peak vertical force and leg compression. Vertical stiffness decreased (-15.9%; p<0.05) across trials, whereas leg stiffness changes were not significant (-5.9%; p>0.05). Changes in root mean square activity of the three tested muscles over sprint repetitions were not significant. Conclusion: Although repeated sprinting on natural grass with players wearing soccer boots impairs their leg-spring behavior (vertical stiffness), there is no substantial concomitant alterations in muscle activation levels or plantar pressure patterns. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations 52 | 53 BMP26 BMP27 Developing a childhood obesity prevention program for children in the State of Qatar Author Institution Amal Essa Al-Muraikhi Hamad Medical Corporation, Primary Health Care, Doha, Qatar Purpose: Obesity has been recognized as a major public health problem worldwide that requires preventive action. Prevention is best targeted at children, but relatively few research studies have focused on obesity prevention and most of those were conducted in western countries. Qatar has undergone rapid industrialization and childhood obesity is emerging as a health problem. However, there is little information on the determinants and its prevention. The aims of this study was to describe the prevalence of obesity among 6-7 years old school children, investigate contributing factors and identify potential components for an intervention program to prevent obesity amongst children. Methods: The study consisted of two parts: 1) cross-sectional survey of children in grade 1 from 12 primary schools randomly selected from the state of Qatar and 2) focus groups with a range of stakeholders. Topic guides were used to explore concepts on overweight and obesity, the causes of childhood obesity, and perceptions on potential prevention interventions. Results: There was a relatively high prevalence of overweight and obesity. There were no significant differences between obese and non-obese children in relation to physical activity or sedentary activity levels or dietary patterns, except for higher reported consumption of sweetened beverages by the obese children compared to non-obese children. Participants were aware of the complexity and variety of causes of obesity and identified two important causal influences resulting from rapid societal change and affluence since oil production in the country. In term of interventions, the school setting was usually prioritized and the influence of teachers in intervention delivery emphasized: “children learn from school more than they learn from their mothers”. The importance of education for parents, particularly the mothers was also a consistent theme. Conclusion: This is the first study in the state of Qatar that has examined the risk factors for childhood obesity and used qualitative methodology to inform future obesity prevention intervention development. The focus group data provided important contextual information, validated some findings from the cross sectional study and informs the development of future obesity prevention interventions appropriate to the local setting. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations Neuromuscular alterations may not be the trigger for the early cessation of exercise in a hot environment Author Institution Sebastien Racinais Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar Background: It has widely been described that elevated environmental temperatures and humidity reduce exercise capacity and that elevated body temperatures alter the maximum voluntary activation of skeletal muscle and peripheral transmission of neural drive. Purpose: This study aimed to determine if such neuromuscular alterations trigger early exercise cessation when exercising in a hot environment i.e. if exercise cessation occurs because, in a hot environment participants become unable or unwilling to adequately activate the musculature. Method: Twelve participants sequentially performed neuromuscular test sessions (cortical excitability, spinal modulation, neuromuscular junction, muscle contractility) after 1 hour of rest, after a 20 minute sub-maximal cycling task (100 W), and after reaching exhaustion during an incremental cycling test. Tests were carried out in both a control (CON, 24°C-24% rH) and hot (HOT, 40°C-40% rH) environment. Results: Exercise duration before voluntary exhaustion (incremental test) was shorter (HOT, 13min 50s; CON, 17min 09s) and final peak power output was lower (HOT, 220W; CON, 255W) in HOT than CON. Rectal, muscle and skin temperature were higher at exhaustion in HOT than CON (e.g. rectal temperature: HOT, 38.7ºC; CON, 38.2ºC). Heart rate was also higher in HOT (184bpm) than CON (179bpm) but not the subjective rate of perceived exertion (RPE), which was higher than 19/20 in both conditions. The amplitude of the motor evoked potential (MEP) by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) was not altered (HOT, 4.5mV; CON, 5.6mV) by environmental temperature. In addition, peripheral fatigue (peak twitch decrement) was less in HOT (-19%) than CON (-33%). Conclusion: Our data shows that participants withdrew earlier from the incremental cycling test with lower power output and EMG activity in HOT than CON environments. Given that: (i) MEP amplitude during cycling was not affected by fatigue nor heat exposure; and (ii) the extent of peripheral fatigue was smaller in the HOT environment, we conclude that there is no evidence that neuromuscular failures represent the limiting factor for cycling in the heat. Instead, higher core temperature and heart rate in the HOT environment might have triggered a voluntary exercise cessation with participants withdrawing from exercise in hot environment before being limited by the modifications in the neuromuscular system. 54 | 55 BMP28 BMP29 Atypical Rett syndrome diagnosis by molecular testing Authors Institution Chini Vasiliki, Zakaria Elsayed, Jamil Alami Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Rett syndrome is a neurodevelopmental disorder that leads to regression in language and motor skills. In most cases, it is caused by genetic mutations in the methyl-CpGbinding protein 2 gene (MECP2). Rett Syndrome occurs almost exclusively in girls and may be easily misdiagnosed, because its spectrum of clinical characteristics is overlapping with characteristics of other disorders such as autism, ataxic cerebral palsy, atypical Angelman’s syndrome, spinocerebellar degeneration, etc. A 16-year-old girl with behavior within the autistic spectrum disorder, moderate to severe intellectual delay and subtle dysmorphic features enrolled in the Shafallah Center for children with special needs, School Unit 1. She is shy, with no sustained eye contact and has secondary seizures. She can use her hands in eating, drinking, painting in the class and she can hold a pencil between the index finger and thumb to do lines and circles, her history shows no regression. The clinical characteristics are closer to the autistic spectrum disorders than to the Rett syndrome. In order to avoid misdiagnosis between Autism and Rett syndrome, a genetic testing of the MECP2 was realized in the Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, by sequencing and Multilocus Ligation Probe Amplification (MLPA). The sequencing analysis showed no variations in both directions, while the MLPA analysis detected a deletion of 0.6-2 kb in exon 4 of MECP2. The tests were repeated twice and the result was confirmed. The molecular testing result supports a Rett syndrome diagnosis, while the clinical characteristics of the patient are not the typical Rett syndrome features. The case demonstrates that the spectrum of the clinical characteristics of the Rett syndrome is broader than is generally considered. This fact makes the diagnosis of Rett syndrome difficult by relying only in the clinical manifestations. Cases like this enforce the role of the molecular testing as a strong diagnostic tool. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations Cognitive decrements do not follow neuromuscular alterations during passive heat exposure Authors Institution Nadia Gaoua, Justin Grantham, Olivier Girard, Sebastien Racinais Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar Background: Methodological discrepancies between studies have made it difficult to conclude whether heat exposure does or does not adversely affect cognitive function and under what specific environmental and physiological conditions these alterations appear. Purpose: To investigate what triggers cognitive and neuromuscular alterations during passive heat exposure. Methods: Eight volunteers performed simple (OTS-4) and complex (OTS-6) cognitive tasks as well as neuromuscular testing (maximal isometric voluntary contractions of the thumb with electrical stimulation of the motor nerve and magnetic stimulation of the motor cortex). These tests were performed at the start (T1), after 1h30 (T2), 3h (T3) and 4h30 (T4) of exposure in both hot (HOT, WBGT = 38 ±1.4°C) and neutral (CON, WBGT = 19 ±0.3°C) environments. Environmental temperatures were adjusted during the HOT session to induce target core temperatures (Tcore) (T1 ~37.3; T2 ~37.8; T3 ~38.3; T4 ~38.8oC). Results: There were global effects of time (p < 0.014) and condition (p < 0.001), as well as the interaction (p < 0.001) for Tcore. At T1 and T4 the OTS-6 performance was impaired in HOT compared to CON in response to the rapid increase in skin temperature (Tskin) and to hyperthermia, respectively. In HOT, the increase in Tcore limited force production capacity, possibly via alterations occurring upstream of the motor cortex (from Tcore ~37.8°C), but also via a decrement in motor cortical excitability (from Tcore ~38.3°C). Discussion: These alterations in cortex excitability failed to explain the cognitive alterations that can originate from an additional cognitive load imposed by temperature variations. Therefore, we suggest that the cognitive load imposed by the rapid increase in Tskin or Tcore caused performance decrements in complex cognitive task. 56 | 57 BMP30 BMP31 Gender differences in body composition, inflammatory markers and risk of metabolic abnormalities in Arabs Authors Institution Abdulaziz Farooq, Wade Knez, Asma Al Nuiami, Bengt Saltin, Vidya Mohamed-Ali, Justin Grantham Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar Background: Metabolic syndrome may be a result of both increased and/or inappropriate fat accumulation. As a consequence of the obesity epidemic, which has particularly manifested amongst the populations of the Arabian Gulf, associated with increases in type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome is becoming an increasing problem. Recent studies from the Gulf region have highlighted that women are more at risk than men. The effect of gender on fat accumulation and distribution, as well as its secretory function, are yet to be studied. Purpose: The aim of our study was to investigate gender differences in body composition, aerobic fitness, adipokines and inflammatory markers in a cohort of healthy Qatari adults. Methods: This was a prospective case-control study of healthy Qatari adults (18-50 years of age), comprised of 29 women matched with 29 men for age and body mass index. Detailed investigations included body composition by anthropometric measurements, DXA and CT scans to assess total and regional fat distribution. Subjects were also evaluated for their aerobic fitness and indices of muscular strength. Hematological investigations included fasting glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, lipid profile analysis, adipokines (s-adiponectin, leptin) and inflammatory markers (IL-6, MCP-1, CRP, S.RANTES). Results: Waist circumference in males (95.4±17.4 cm) and females (90.1±11.3 cm) was comparable (p=0.192). CT scan results revealed that women accumulate comparatively more fat in the total abdominal (p=0.036), and abdominal sub cutaneous (p=0.066) and total thigh (p<0.001) regions. No differences were detected in HOMA-IR, and despite very high adiposity, the lipid profile was favorable in females (TG=0.8±0.4 vs. 1.2±0.5 mmol/L and LDL=2.8±0.7 vs. 3.2±0.9 mmol/L). Poor aerobic fitness (<50th percentile) was observed in both groups 96% in women compared to 70% in men (p<0.001). S-adiponectin and Novel poly (diol-co-tricarballylate) biodegradable elastomers. What makes them excellent carriers for controlled drug delivery and tissue engineering applications? Authors Institutions Husam Mohammed Younes, Mohamed Shaker Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Canada In the past decade, biodegradable elastomeric polymers have gained considerable attention due to the renewed interest in their applications in the fields of biomedical tissue engineering and implantable drug delivery systems. Elastomers can be regarded as one of the best biomaterials for such applications because their mechanical properties can be manipulated in a manner that makes them as soft as body tissues, they have the ability to recover and withstand the mechanical challenges upon implantation in a mobile part of the body and they have also proven to be well suited to drug controlled drug delivery applications. Our lab has recently reported on the successful preparation and characterization of a novel family of poly (diol-co-tricarballylate) elastomers, using visible light photo initiated polymerization. This new patented family of elastomers possess many structural, mechanical and physicochemical properties that make them superior to the currently available biodegradable elastomers. The purpose of this presentation is to shed light on the preparation, characterization and in vivo animal biocompatibility studies conducted on these new elastomers. In addition, a short illustration on their application in controlled drug delivery and tissue engineering and the current and future scope of work planned utilizing the latest Qatar National Research Fund – National Priorities Research Program 3rd cycle support received will also to be presented. leptin levels were significantly elevated in females, whereas CRP, IL-6, MCP-1 or S.RANTES were no different. Conclusion: Elevated leptin concentration in women was attributed to a high percentage of central obesity in the test subjects. The presence of higher levels of s.-adiponectin led to a favorable lipid profile in women. In contrast, deleterious gender differences in aerobic fitness within this population is of critical relevance and must be further investigated. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations 58 | 59 Student Posters BMP32 Factors influencing breast cancer screening practices among Arab women living in the State of Qatar Authors Institutions Tam Truong Donnelly, Al-Hareth Al-Khater, Mohamed Ghaith Al-Kuwari Nabila Al-Meer, Salha Bujassoum Al-Bader, Mariam Malik, Rajvir Singh University of Calgary - Qatar, Doha, Qatar Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Breast cancer is frequently diagnosed in Arab women living in Qatar. Al Amal Hospital in Doha reported that 20% of cancer cases receiving treatment in 2007 involved the treatment of breast cancer among women. Early detection and treatment can reduce breast cancer morbidity and mortality rates significantly. However, Arab women are often diagnosed at advanced stages of breast cancer. Funded by the Qatar National Research Fund - National Priorities Research Program, we are undertaking a three-phase research program for which the goals are; (1) to understand the breast health experience of Arab women in Qatar, (2) identify and implement strategies that assist women to participate in breast cancer screening activities, and (3) evaluate, facilitate, and sustain the participation of Arab women in breast cancer screening. In phase I of the research program we will conduct two studies. Study 1: This quantitative cross-sectional survey will investigate the participation rate of Arab women in breast cancer screening, their knowledge about breast cancer, barriers and facilitators to participation. Using a structured questionnaire, we will conduct face-to-face interviews with Arab women aged 35 and over in three different cities in Qatar (Doha, Al Wakrah, and Al Khor). Convenient sampling will be used to recruit 753 participants. Descriptive and inferential statistics will be performed using SPSS. Study 2: This qualitative study will gain insight on; 1) how Arabic women view and participate in breast cancer screening activities, 2) how social, cultural, historical, and economic influences affect breast cancer screening for Arab women, the access to screening services, and social support networks in place, and 3) what intervention strategies will increase awareness of early detection and participation in breast cancer screening among Arab women. Purposive sampling will be used. Qualitative in-depth interviews will be individually conducted with Arab women, men, and healthcare providers. Qualitative data analysis will be performed. Although the results are not available at the present time, we will discuss how the information obtained from both the quantitative and qualitative studies will be used to develop culturally appropriate and effective intervention strategies and services to meet the preventative care needs of Arab women living in the State of Qatar with the aim of decreasing the seriousness and prevalence of breast cancer among them. Biomedicine | Poster Presentations BMPS1 Metal toxicity at the synapse: presynaptic, postsynaptic and long-term effects Authors Institution Zena Basil Ghazala, Arnab Chowdhury, Dietrich Büsselberg Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Metal toxicity is a global health concern. We summarize the evidence for metal interactions with the nervous system with an emphasis on synaptic transmission. The appropriate functioning of synaptic transmission is crucial for the information transfer in any neural network. Presynaptically, metal ions modulate transmitter release through their interaction with neurotransmitter (NT) synthesis, fusion of synaptic vesicles, signaling cascades and ion channels. Ca2+ entry through voltage-gated channels is impaired by Pb2+, Cd2+ or Zn2+, therefore all processes which depend on Ca2+, including NT release, will be affected. Furthermore, some metals interact with intracellular pathways e.g. Pb2+ inhibits PKC enzymes through its catalytic domains, and Ni2+ causes a decline in the transcription of two isoforms of PKC (prkcc and prkz) and two regulatory binding proteins (prkcbp1 and prkcdb) affecting most functions of PKC. Cd and Hg inhibit adenylate cyclase activity, while the extent of inhibition depends on exposure time and brain area. Exocytosis is impaired by Pb2+ and Cu2+, which interact with Synaptotagmin I. Postsynaptically, processes associated with binding of NT to their receptors, activation of the channels and degradation of NT are changed by metal. Zn2+, Pb2+, Cu2+, Cd2+, Ni2+, Co2+, Li3+, Hg+ and methylmercury modulate NMDA, AMPA/ Kainate and/or GABA receptor’s activity. These effects are more or less specific e.g. Zn2+ and Cu2+ modulate all three types of receptors, while Zn2+ is more potent (IC50= 0.77μM) compared to Cu2+ (IC50=15μM) at NMDA-Rs, but both have similar potencies at GABA-R. For the most part, metal interactions depend on the subunit composition of the NMDA-R, while less data are available for other targets, possibly underestimating their importance. These modulations change the synaptic efficiency and therefore impair longterm potentiation (LTP). Consequently, metals such as Al, Pb or Cd result in various cognitive deficits. In addition the generation and maintenance of LTP is reduced by metal actions on phosphorylation of transcription factors like CREB as well as by reduction of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) that change retrograde signaling. Overall, there are multiple effects of metals based on the forms of the metals, their concentrations and the types of neurons involved. 60 | 61 BMPS2 BMPS3 Gene identification in Mendelian forms of familial epilepsy Authors Institution Hala Mint El Moctar, Mohamed El Dow, Yasser Al Saraj, Jamil Alami, Hatem El Shanti Shafallah Medical Genetics Center, Doha, Qatar Epilepsy encompasses a heterogeneous group of recurrent seizure disorders affecting 1% of the world’s population. Idiopathic generalized epilepsy accounts for 40% of all epilepsy disorders. Genetic factors contribute significantly to the etiology of idiopathic generalized epilepsies. Complex non-Mendelian forms of familial epilepsies comprise the majority of idiopathic generalized epilepsies, where susceptibility genes remain largely unknown. However, rare Mendelian or monogenic familial epilepsies have contributed to our understanding of the genetic heterogeneity and complexity of epilepsy disorders. Recent advances in the genetics of epilepsy have identified most monogenic idiopathic generalized epilepsies as being caused by various channelopathies of which the majority show an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. In this study we aim to identify gene(s) responsible for autosomal recessive forms of familial idiopathic generalized epilepsy. We identified one consanguineous family with idiopathic generalized epilepsy showing an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance. Age of onset of epilepsy in affected family members was in early adolescence. The majority manifest generalized tonic-clonic seizures and abnormal EEG findings. We performed whole-genome single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping for the five family members using Illumina platform (200,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms). Linkage analysis by homozygosity mapping (Homozygosity Mapper) was performed. Role of mesenchymal stem cells in enhancing ovarian cancer metastasis Authors Institutions Hamda Al-Thawadi, Rafael Lis, C Touboul, C Raynaud, Arash Rafii Qatar Science Leadership Program, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Cancer accounts for the death of thousands of people each year and brings pain and suffering to thousands more. Among cancers that specifically affect women, ovarian cancer has the highest fatality rate as 7 out of 10 women die within 5 years of surgery. As highlighted in numerous recent publications, the role of the microenvironment in the development and progression of cancer is critical, albeit not entirely understood and should therefore be a focal point for further inquiry. The goal of our study was to define the metastatic properties enhanced by the interaction between ovarian cancer cells and mesenchymal stem cells. We studied the interaction between ovarian cancer cells and mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) using two different ovarian cancer cell lines (OVCAR3 and SKOV3) as well as different MSC cell lines derived from specific tissue. We studied using cytokine array as well as kinase array the modifications of the MSC upon their interaction with ovarian cancer cells. We demonstrated increased expression of cytokines that might be implicated in ovarian cancer metastasis (IL6 and IL8). Moreover MSC helped the ovarian cancer cells to grow in a tri-dimensional cell culture system. Finally we were able to define transcriptomic modification in the MSC and ovarian cancer cells upon their interaction. We identified one region spanning approximately10 Mb on the long arm of chromosome 11. The region contains 279 protein-coding genes. Candidate genes were prioritized in-silico based on brain expression and conservation through evolution. The identified candidate genes are re-sequenced (Sanger sequencing, big dye terminator chemistry) and one gene has been excluded up to date. We are currently re-sequencing and pre-forming mutation analysis on the remaining ten candidate genes. Biomedicine | Student Posters 62 | 63 BMPS4 BMPS5 Enhanced EGFR expression and function in calreticulin deficient cells Authors Institution Label-free intrinsic imaging capillary zone electrophoresis analysis to detect homocysteine from blood serum for the detection of genetic metabolic disorders in new-born babies in Qatar Amit Abraham, Hanin Abou Ayash, Hala Omar, Hamid Massaeli, Nasrin Mesaeli Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Author Institutions Introduction: Calreticulin is a multi-functioning protein located in the endoplasmic reticulum. Several functions have been attributed to calreticulin including lectin-like chaperoning, regulation of gene expression, cell adhesion, auto-immunity and calcium homeostasis. As an endoplasmic reticulum chaperone calreticulin regulates the maturation and folding of several transmembrane proteins. We hypothesized that as an endoplasmic reticular protein it regulates the expression folding and maturation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). To date no information is available about the role of calreticulin in EGFR expression and folding. Methods: Wild type calreticulin deficient (crt -/-) and mouse lung cancer cells isolated from transgenic mice over expressing calreticulin was used to examine the expression, localization and function of EGFR. Western blot analysis was used to determine the protein expression. Immunocytochemical staining of cells was utilized to determine localization of EGFR and AKT phosphorylation was used to determine changes in EGFR function. Results: Loss of calreticulin function resulted in a significant increase in the expression of EGFR as was determined by western blot analysis with antiEGFR antibody. Similarly, lung tumor cell lines isolated from calreticulin over expressing cells expressed high levels of EGFR. Immunocytochemical staining of these cells did not show any significant change in the localization of EGFR in either calreticulin deficient or over expressing cells. Our data also demonstrated an increase in the level of tyrosine phosphorylation in calreticulin deficient cells accompanied by a significant increase in the AKT phosphorylation in these cell lines suggesting an increase in EGFR activity. Conclusions: Altered calreticulin expression does not affect EGFR receptor folding but rather increases its expression and function. Next we will examine whether changes in the EGFR is due to calreticulin’s role as a regulator of intracellular calcium thus affecting transcription of EGFR (using quantitative RT-PCR technique). Biomedicine | Student Posters Amira Khalaf Aljabiry deltaDOT Ltd, London, UK deltaDOT Ltd, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Over 14,000 babies are born in Qatar each year, and it is the State’s intention to provide each with a health screen at birth for the timely diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism. And since the population is characterized by a high consanguinity (estimates vary between 25–70%) from first-cousin marriages, congenital and genetic disorders are responsible for a major proportion of infant mortality, morbidity, and handicap birth defects and are relatively common among the population. Accurate and reliable quantification of amino acid (AA), generally in a plasma sample, allows early diagnosis of disorders such as phenylketonuria, tyrosinemia, maple syrup urinary disease, hyperornithinemia and citrullinemia. A deficiency of cystathionine B-synthase (CBS) can cause an autosomal recessive disorder of methionine and homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism known as homocystinuria which results in elevated concentrations of Hcy in plasma and urine. Clinical symptoms in untreated patients include progressive myopia and lens dislocation, thromboembolism, epilepsy, and mental retardation. Hcy is implicated as a wide variety of natal and other disorders – including Alzheimer’s. The aim of this study is to develop novel screens for AA levels – and in particular Hcy - in the blood using novel approaches in capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). In order to quantify relevant amino acids it is necessary to deplete proteins from a complex biological sample such as plasma. In this investigation two protein depletion protocols were investigated on human plasma containing Hcy by labelfree intrinsic imaging in the UV using CZE. As with a majority of amino acids, Hcy has very little or no UV absorption and for this reason analysis of samples were performed on an advanced high performance capillary electrophoresis (HPCE) platform, by multiple-pixel multiple-imaging indirect UV measurements. Two complementary analysis workflows were deployed to take advantage of the time-development of the AAs in the analysis allowing accurate quantification and minimum inherent bias. Studies have been made with pure AAs and also with samples spiked in known quantities in blood which offer real clinical advantages. We have also developed methodologies for the simultaneous detection of several amino acids in plasma samples and limits of detection (LOD) and limits of quantification (LOQ) will be presented. These have been shown to be greatly improved with a preconcentration technique known as ‘stacking’. Work has been undertaken in our labs in Qatar Science & Technology Park and in collaboration with Hamad Medical Center. 64 | 65 BMPS6 BMPS7 Calreticulin mediated control of polycystin-2 expression Authors Institutions Amit Abraham, Emine Turgut-Neary, Hala Omar, Hamid Massaeli, Nasrin Mesaeli Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada Polycystin-2 or transient receptor potential polycystic 2 (TRPP2) is a membrane glycoprotein that is encoded for by the gene pkd-2, which accounts for ~15% of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease. TRPP2 is an independent non selective cation channel localized to either the plasma membrane or the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) that is involved in diverse cellular functions including control of cell cycle, cell wall synthesis, left-right symmetry, cardiac & renal development and mating behavior. In addition, it interacts with polycystin-1 that regulates different cell signaling pathways including JAK/ STAT. As a trans-membrane protein, polycystin-2 is expressed, folded and matured in the endoplasmic reticulum. To date no data is available about the nature of endoplasmic reticulum which is responsible for the proper folding of polycystin-2. This led us to the hypothesis that calreticulin, an endoplasmic reticular calcium binding chaperone protein, is involved in stabilizing and transporting polycystin-2 to the plasma membrane. To test this hypothesis we examined changes in polycystin expression and localization in wild type and calreticulin deficient cells using western blot analysis, and immunocytochemistry. Furthermore, western blot and immunohistochemical analyses were used to examine changes in polycystin expression and localization upon calreticulin over expression in vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells of transgenic mice. Our data showed that over expression of calreticulin in either vascular smooth muscle cells or endothelial cells of transgenic mice results in the development of multiple clear cysts in the kidney cortex of these mice. Histopathological analysis of these kidneys resembles those of human polycystic kidney disease. Furthermore, loss of calreticulin function resulted in altered polycystin-2 expression in the mouse embryonic fibroblast cell lines. However, there were no significant changes in the localization of polycystin-2 protein in calreticulin deficient cells when compared to the wild type cells. A new 3-dimensional model for ovarian cancer based on amniotic membrane Author Institutions Halema Al Farsi Qatar Science Leadership Program, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) is the sixth most common malignancy in women and the leading cause of death from gynecological cancer in the world. One of the main differences between ovarian cancers and other neoplasm is burden of local extension. Hence the majority of mortality in ovarian cancer is due to extensive peritoneal disease, with a high rate of mortality and an overall survival rate ranging from 20% to 30% five years after surgery according to various studies. As for any metastatic process, the tumor cells have to go through the steps of detaching from the primary tumor, adhering to the peritoneal surface and then invading the peritoneum. Each of these steps might be critical in the development of a metastatic lesion. Therefore it is essential to understand the molecular background of peritoneal adhesion and invasion in order to define new therapeutic targets. It may be that classic 2-dimensional cultures do not represent an ideal model for the initiation of metastasis, and therefore studies using only 2-dimensional cell cultures might not replicate the reality of ovarian cancer physiology. The goal of our study was to define new 3-dimensional culture models that will mimic the peritoneal tissue. The constraints were; to use an easily accessible tissue, in relevant quantities, as close as possible to the peritoneum, with great manipulability. We demonstrated that we could keep the amniotic membrane in culture and mimic adhesion and the early invasion of ovarian cancer cell aggregates. We were then able to follow the invasive process within the membrane and determine different cell behavior. Developing reproducible 3-dimensional models of ovarian cancer aggregates and early adhesion and invasion will help us gain a more accurate understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in the ovarian cancer metastatic process and define potential new therapeutic targets hindered by the use of classic 2-dimensional models. Our data supports a possible role for calreticulin in the expression of polycystin-2. Further research is warranted to elucidate the role of calreticulin as a chaperone or regulator of calcium homeostasis in the expression of polycystin-2. Biomedicine | Student Posters 66 | 67 BMPS9 BMPS8 Signature changes in human brain wave activity associated with olfactory learning Author Institution Abeer Raji M. Al Shammari University of Cardiff, Cardiff, UK Previous animal studies have shown that olfactory learning modulates oscillatory activities in the mammalian olfactory system. In trained rodents, odour-induced oscillations in the gamma frequency band (30-80Hz) were specifically amplified in the olfactory bulb (OB) which was also associated with power increases in beta oscillations (15-30Hz) in both the OB and pyriform cortex (PC). However, there is still no evidence that these learning induced oscillations also occur in humans and that is one aim of this study. Additionally, we sought to determine if the drop in detection threshold for androstadienone due to increased sensitization also generalizes to the structurally similar androstenol. We also intended to find out if the induced sensitization to androstadienone results in changes in the perceived odour quality. Here, fourteen normal human subjects with low to intermediate sensitivity to androstadienone were selected for ten day scent trials. By using electroencephalography (EEG), oscillatory response due to androstadienone was predominately recorded in four brain regions on days 0, 3, 7 and 10. The induced oscillations were measured in the OB, PC, right and left frontal hemispheres. A power spectrum technique was used to analyze EEG responses in the gamma and beta frequency bands. Our results showed that learning-induced sensitization to androstadienone amplified gamma power in the OB, however beta oscillations were only enhanced in the PC. Exposure-induced sensitization to androstadienone also generalized to androstenol demonstrating plasticity in the human olfactory system. The induced learning was accompanied with significant changes in the perceived familiarity and intensity of androstadienone. As a whole this is the first study to demonstrate that olfactory learning in humans is associated with an increase in gamma oscillatory power in the OB and beta oscillations in the PC. This might indicate that gamma oscillations are switched to beta waves as they travel a significant distance to the PC. Biomedicine | Student Posters A mouse model analyzing the influence of dietary fat intake on liver apoptosis Author Institutions Ahmed Hamad Al Saie, Robert Weiss, Erin Daugherity, Kirk Maurer Weil Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA Dietary fat intake is associated with hepatobiliary cancers which carry a poor prognosis causing over 20,000 deaths per year in the US alone. We hypothesized that excess lipid accumulation in the liver promotes hepatic cancer through inflammation and oxidative DNA damage. In order for eukaryotic cells to protect genomic integrity, the protein kinase ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) responds to oxidative DNA damage and DNA strand breaks. Failure to activate ATM following damage leads to defective cell cycle control and impaired DNA repair. In this study, ATM knockout mice were used as a sensitized background to assess the effects of oxidative stress and DNA damage associated with hepatosteatosis. ATM-deficient and control mice were fed a high fat diet for eight weeks, and then liver tissue was analyzed for apoptosis. It was expected that more apoptotic cells would be found in ATM-deficient mice fed the high fat diet than in control mice due to DNA break repair deficiencies. Liver tissues were sectioned and stained by TUNEL assay, a method for detecting DNA fragmentation that occurs during apoptosis. The TUNEL immunohistochemistry protocol was first optimized for hepatocytes. Positive cells were counted in multiple 40X fields from each tissue section. Statistical differences between groups were determined by comparison of the fraction of positive cells. There were more apoptotic cells in livers from mice fed a high fat diet relative to those fed the normal diet. Interestingly, among mice fed the high fat diet there was a slight decrease in apoptosis in ATM deficient mice relative to controls. Although this difference did not reach statistical significance, this may indicate that ATM is required for inducing hepatic apoptosis in response to stresses associated with increased dietary fat consumption. Additional staining for cell proliferation as well as DNA damage response activation will be performed in the future. This study will begin to elucidate the interaction between lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, DNA damage and hepatobiliary oncogenesis and will establish a new mouse model that will provide a powerful tool for future mechanistic and translation studies of hepatobiliary disease. 68 | 69 BMPS11 BMPS10 Analysis of cortical development in Lis1-GFP mice Authors Institutions Khawla Fuad Ali, Anamaria Sudarov Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA The Lis1 gene encodes a non-catalytic sub-unit of the platelet-activating factor acetyl hydrolase enzyme (PAFAH1B1). Increased PAFAH1B1 dosage in humans causes mild brain structural abnormalities, moderate to severe developmental delay and failure to thrive. To investigate the effects of Lis1 over expression on cortical development, we analyzed the brains of Lis1-GFP mice with 30% over expression in the Lis1 gene. Cortical width was thinner for Lis1-GFP mice than for wild type at embryonic day 14.5 (E14.5), post-natal day 1 (P1) and P6 but appeared to be similar at P120. Analysis of cell proliferation at E14.5 showed a reduction in rates of proliferation at the ventricular zone (VZ) of Lis1-GFP mice compared to wild type. As a result, less Pax6-positive cells of the VZ were seen at P1 in the Lis1-GFP mice. Immunostaining for pyramidal neuron marker Brn2 showed cellular disorganization within the upper cortical layers (layers II and III) of P1 mice, while other layers (I, IV, V and VI) appeared to form properly. Analysis of cortical plate formation and laminar structure via BrdU birth-dating at P1 and P21 showed successful radial migration of neurons born at the VZ at ~E12.5 and ~E14.5 to their final destined layer. Disorganization of layers II and III was also seen in BrdU birth-dating analysis, and that supported our Brn2 findings. The number and density of mature neurons was assessed in the cerebral cortex of adult Lis1-GFP mice (P120). Numbers and densities were similar in all cortical layers between Lis1-GFP mice and wild type, except for layers II and III which showed significant reduction in neuronal count. Quantification of GABAergic interneurons within the six cortical layers of P120 mice revealed no significant difference between wild type and Lis1-GFP mice. Regulation of store-operated channels by endoplasmic reticulum chaperons Authors Institutions Mashael Al-Shafai, Abdelilah Arredouani, Hamid Mesaeli, Nasrin Mesaeli, Khaled Machaca Qatar Science Leadership Program, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Calreticulin is a conserved Ca2+ binding chaperone protein that is localized to the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The protein is implicated in many cellular functions such as the regulation of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, the regulation of gene expression, the folding of the newly synthesized proteins, cell adhesion, cancer and auto-immunity. The role of calreticulin in Ca2+ homeostasis regulation through Ca2+ storage and signaling might be the key to explaining the involvement of the protein in many biological functions inside and outside the ER. In this study, we examined whether calreticulin is responsible for regulating store-operated channels (SOC) on the plasma membrane by assessing changes in Ca2+ levels and SOC activity in mouse embryonic fibroblasts that are deficient in calreticulin. Wild type and calreticulin deficient fibroblasts were loaded with fura2-AM and the release of Ca2+ from the ER stores was induced using Thapsigargin or Ionomycin, and Ca2+ levels were measured using InC lm2 computer program. Calreticulin-defiecint fibroblasts showed a marked decrease in Ca2+ influx through SOC compared to wild type. To investigate the mechanism that underlines this decrease in SOC activity we performed western blots using antibodies for ORAI (Calcium release-activated calcium channel protein) and STIM (stromal interacting molecule). Our data showed a significant decrease in the expression of ORAI in the calreticulin-deficient fibroblasts compared to wild type while STIM expression in calreticulin-defiecint fibroblasts did not significantly differ from wild type. We concluded from our data that calreticulin controls SOC activity and this seems to be through regulating the expression of ORAI on the plasma membrane. Collectively, our results show that Lis1 over expression in the Lis1-GFP mice results in decreased proliferation rates of neuronal progenitors at the VZ pre-natally. Subsequently, this may interfere with the proper formation of upper cortical layers (layers II and III) in young and adult Lis1-GFP mice. Biomedicine | Student Posters 70 | 71 BMPS13 BMPS12 Tumor associated mesenchymal stem cells protect ovarian cancer cells from hyperthermia through CXCL12 Authors Institution Fadwa Ali, Arash Rafii, Raphael Lis, C Touboul Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has shown promise in the treatment of ovarian carcinosis. Despite its efficiency for the treatment of peritoneal carcinosis from digestive tract neoplasia, it has failed to demonstrate significant benefit in ovarian cancers. It is therefore essential to understand the mechanism underlying the resistance to HIPEC in ovarian cancers. Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSC) play an important role in the development of ovarian cancer metastasis and resistance to treatments. A recent study suggests that MSCs may be cytotoxic for cancer cells upon heat shock. In contrast, we describe the protective role of MSC against hyperthermia. Using cytokine arrays we determined that tumor associated MSC (TAMC) secrete pro-tumoral cytokines. We studied the effect of hyperthermia in co-culture setting of TAMC or bone marrow derived-MSC (BM-MSC) associated with ovarian cancer cell lines (SKOV3 and CaOV3) with polyvariate flow cytometry. We demonstrate that hyperthermia does not challenge survival of TAMC or BM-MSC. Both TAMC and BM-MSC displayed strong protective effect inducing thermotolerance in ovarian cancer cells (OCC). Transwell experiments demonstrated the role of secreted factors. We showed that CXCL12 was inducing thermotolerance and that inhibition of CXCL12/CXCR4 interaction restored cytotoxicity of hyperthermia in co-culture experiments. Targeting the interaction between stromal and cancer cells through CXCL12 inhibition might restore hyperthermia sensitivity in ovarian cancers, and thus improve HIPEC efficiency. Initial investigation of ubiquitination pathway in mammalian meiosis Authors Institution Amna Mohammed Al-Khuzaei, Paula Cohen Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar The Cohen’s lab research focuses mainly on the regulation of mammalian meiosis in mouse models, which include several induced mutants that have helped in broadening our knowledge of meiotic recombination and the gametogenesis. The lab also studies several DNA mismatch repair (MMR) proteins and their subsequent effects on meiotic recombination. Thus, our research serves two major purposes; first, to understand the genetics of re-combination and thereby to understand how such events can fail in human gametogenesis and secondly, to further elucidate the mechanisms of DNA repair and genome stability in an important in vivo system. Extending from these aims, one of these genes is the MLH3 gene, evolutionarily conserved in many species such as mice, humans, and worms and which can solve the infertility problems in MLH3 mutant mice. The focus of our project is to investigate the functions of several genes involved in meiotic prophase, using the technique of chromosome spreading. This method allows us to visualize the different stages of prophase I, and see the staining pattern of several antibodies that are specific to meiotic proteins. Using a battery of specific antibodies, we set out to understand the meiotic roles of a number of poorly characterized proteins involved in DNA repair and ubiquitination pathways. These antibodies of interest are those that are involved in the ubiquitination pathway of the sex chromosomes such as antibodies raised against Rnf 8, Rad 18, and Rnf 168, all of which are involved in ubiquitination pathways, as well as other antibodies involved in ubiquitination/deubiquitinatio. A group of other antibodies that include mdc λ, HR9B, MRαB, USP2B, and UBQ 2 is also being studied. Our goal was to first characterize the accumulation of these proteins on meiotic chromosomes in order to identify which, if any of these proteins might be functionally relevant for meiotic recombination and prophase I progression. The project started with studying the staining pattern of the antibodies listed above in adult male wild type mice, then younger male wild type mice to see both the early and late stages of meiosis. The project is progressing to studying the staining pattern in the MLH3 and Ago 4 mutant mice to see any possible co-localizations between MMR genes and the antibodies considered by this study. Biomedicine | Student Posters 72 | 73 Energy & Environment Oral Presentations Poster Presentations Student Posters Oral Presentations EEO1 Materials science and engineering are ‘outside the box’ at Qatar University to improve the Environment Author Institution Mariam Al Ali Al Maadeed Qatar University, Doha, Qatar The Office of Research and the Materials Technology Unit (MTU) at Qatar University (QU) have undertaken many challenges and initiatives in line with QU’s role in achieving objectives set by the university’s stakeholders. This includes taking the first steps to become a distinguished research university. As materials science is an interdisciplinary field, MTU has a variety of research activities that extend across all faculties and departments, often crossing traditional subject boundaries. The materials research at MTU is linked to virtually every field of science and engineering. Our mission is to improve the development of Qatar through the discovery and development of new materials with novel properties for applications within Qatar that meet the needs of the environment, industry and society. Researchers and students at MTU are empowered to think outside the box to expand the frontiers of materials science and engineering and encouraged to help address and contribute to societal needs in strategic areas including safety, energy, economy and sustainability. Qatar University researchers combine their expertise in materials science, chemistry, physics, biology and engineering along with advanced computation to understand and control properties of matter. MTU provides the opportunity for faculty members and students to interact with the industry and actively participate in various projects. MTU attracts leading international scholars and aims to provide universal knowledge of the four essential elements of materials science and engineering, namely: processing/synthesis, structure, properties and applications. Qatar University leads the materials research development in Qatar in sustainable materials, corrosion and nondestructive studies. MTU is starting a variety of recycling projects for polymers, papers and concrete. Materials research contributes to economic progress by developing advanced materials for new technologies, and lowering the cost and enhancing the performance of more established technologies. Energy & Environment | Oral Presentations EEO2 Gas-to-Liquids Research at Texas A&M University at Qatar Authors Institution Dragomir Bukur, Nimir El Bashir Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar As the State of Qatar endeavors to become the ‘Gas Capital of the World’, it is imperative to develop cost-effective technologies for gas processing. In this context, gas-to-liquid (GTL) technology represents a major pathway for the production of ultra-clean liquid hydrocarbons and value-added chemicals. The Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) reaction is the principal route for the GTL process. Professor Bukur is exploring effects of novel and non-traditional activation (pretreatment) procedures, and promoters on performance of supported cobalt catalysts during FTS. This research is conducted in collaboration with a team of experts in both fundamental and applied aspects of catalysis. It may ultimately lead to establishing scientific basis for design of the next generation of supported cobalt catalysts for the GTL conversion process. Another area of research is development of a comprehensive kinetic model for FTS in a slurry reactor. The kinetic model developed in this study, coupled with the appropriate conservation equations and transport properties for a given reactor configuration (fixed bed or slurry bubble column), would be a valuable tool for optimizing product yield, simulating the plant design, and evaluating the economic cost benefits. Dr. Elbashir’s research activities are focused on the design of an advanced reactor technology for the FTS to leverage certain advantages over the current commercial technologies while at the same time overcoming several of their major limitations. The pillars of this innovative research approach are based on fundamental studies leading to better understanding of the complex nature of FTS, coupled with applied research work targeting the development of novel catalysts and reactors. All phases of Dr Elbashir’s research activity in this field are performed in collaboration with leading scientists of multidisciplinary backgrounds and with the involvement of both graduate and undergraduate students from Qatar. This novel research approach is designed to lead to alternative FTS technologies, enabling Qatar to be on the forefront of technology development in GTL. 76 | 77 EEO3 EEO4 GTL fuels and their effects on aircraft aas turbine altitude ignition – detailed diagnostics Authors Institutions Thomas Mosbach, Gregor Gebel, Patrick Le Clercq, Darren Fyffe, John Moran, Reza Sadr, Kumaran Kannaiyan, Ali Al-Sharshani DLR German Aerospace Center, Stuttgart, Germany Rolls Royce Strategic Research Center, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Qatar Shell Research & Technology Center, QSTP, Doha, Qatar There has been growing interest for alternative fuels in aviation in the past three years. An alternative fuel can be defined by the triplet ‘feedstock-process-fuel’. Presently, the triplet with one of the highest technology readiness levels for gas turbine (GT) applications involves using natural gas in a Fischer-Tropsch thermochemical process to derive synthetic paraffinic kerosene (SPK). Generic FischerTropsch fuels were approved in September 2009 for use as 50% blends with Jet A-1. Gas-to-Liquid (GTL), as a final product of the aforementioned triplet meets those specifications and is in a deployment stage, with one plant currently under construction in Qatar. The product of a Fischer-Tropsch process, such as GTL, is feedstock agnostic. As such, its composition can be tailored to meet or exceed some of the current specifications for jet fuel. Investigating the potential benefits of composition changes in GTL-like jet fuel defines the general scope of our research program. This article presents the results of tests conducted on the Rolls-Royce plc TRL3 sub-atmospheric altitude ignition facility in Derby, UK. The test campaign aimed at investigating the impact of the carbon number distribution (narrow/ wide cut), the iso- to normal-paraffin ratio and the total cyclic paraffin content characterizing the surrogate GTL-like fuel composition on the ignition and combustion performance of a single sector advanced GT combustor and fuel injector under simulated altitude conditions. The detailed diagnostics consisted of simultaneous high-speed imaging of hydroxyl (OH*) and methylidyne (CH*) chemiluminescence and broadband luminescence measurements of the ignition process. By observing the processes in the visible and the UV simultaneously, it was possible to distinguish between radiation (originating from e.g. soot) and the chemiluminescent emissions from the OH* and CH* radicals. These are markers for chemical activity in the different regions of the combustor and therefore provide information concerning the temporal and spatial development of the flame kernel. Energy & Environment | Oral Presentations Automating visual inspection of pipes used for natural gas production Authors Institutions Peter Ian Hansen, Brett Browning, Peter Rander, Hatem Alismail Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, PA, USA Qatar is a worldwide leader in liquid natural gas (LNG) production and is poised to lead the world in gas-to-liquids (GTL) production with the commissioning of the Pearl GTL facility. Unfortunately, Qatar’s gas fields contain non-negligible quantities of corrosive and toxic hydrogen sulfide (H2S), resulting in the ongoing need for expensive and labor intensive pipe inspection to detect and monitor areas of corrosion. Such inspection is critical to plant integrity, worker safety, and to ensure the economic productivity of the facility. Current industry practice relies on manual sensors operated by a worker located externally to the pipe. The complex pipe geometries and sheer number of pipes, result in a sparse inspection process that forces inspectors to extrapolate measurements to large areas of the pipe network that are unseen. To overcome these limitations, we are pursuing a radically different approach that uses an articulated robot to navigate inside the pipe, combined with a visionbased perception system that can build a detailed, registered, high resolution 3D appearance map of the inside pipe surface. By using an articulated robot, we can significantly increase the direct measurement coverage of the pipe network. By using a vision-based perception system, we can build models for visualization of the inside pipe surface that can be directly evaluated for corrosion damage. Moreover, our approach lays the foundation for automating corrosion detection by enabling changes in co-registered multi-sensor fusion (e.g. using magnetic flux leakage) to be evaluated over time. Our work to date has focused on developing monocular and stereo visual odometry systems, which are the core component to building high resolution 3D appearance maps of the pipe surface from a robot crawler located inside the pipe. We have developed algorithms that take imagery collected from a robot moving inside the pipe, and are able to estimate the motion of the vehicle and the resulting structure and appearance of the pipe surface. We have evaluated our algorithms on pipe segments and have generated accurate, high resolution stitched images of the internal pipe surface. We will describe the details of our algorithms, current results, and next steps in our work. 78 | 79 EEO5 EEO6 Real-time leakage detection in underground water pipelines using wireless communication Authors Institutions Abdullah Kadri, Adnan Abu Dayya, Daniele Trinchero, Roccardo Stefanelli, Tamer Khattab, Mazen Hasna Smart solar reactor for co-production of hydrogen and industrial grade carbon under any weather conditions Author Institution Nezrin Ozalp Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Qatar University Wireless Innovations Center, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Politecnico di Torino, Turin, Italy Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Detecting and locating water leakages in underground water distribution pipes has been studied in this research activity. The importance behind this research is driven by the huge amount of lost water in buried water distribution systems. It is estimated that worldwide, approximately 48 billion m3 water is lost per year. The monetary value of this lost water is about USD 14.6 billion and this amount of water is sufficient to supply 200 million people. Besides the monetary aspect of the lost water, leakages create a public health risk when a leak becomes a potential entry point for contaminants when the water pressure drops below certain levels. Conventionally, water leakages in underground pipes are detected and located using systems based on several techniques and technologies amongst which are: tracer gases, thermography, pressure and flow modeling, and ground penetrating radars (GPRs). Although these techniques show some promise, they are expensive, complex, time consuming, and they may not be successful in detecting leakages in practical conditions. Other techniques depend on sensing the acoustic noise generated due to the pressure gradient over the pipe’s inner and outer surfaces. The difficulty with this technique is that it requires operators with an experienced professional background and it is critical in urban environments with high background noise. In this research, an innovative solution has been introduced in which a freefloating detecting module is inserted into the underground water pipe. This module gathers information about existing leakages and then wirelessly transmits the information to a ground station on real-time basis. The detecting module contains the sensing element, i.e. a hydrophone, the radio frequency (RF) unit, the processing unit, and an antenna. The challenge in this solution lays on designing a mobile module able to send electromagnetic waves from inside the pipes to the surface through the fluid, the pipe’s material and the terrain. Other challenges include: studying the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) among various components that exist within the sensor module, wave propagation analysis, designing the wireless protocol taking into consideration power optimization, and developing algorithms for data analysis. Energy & Environment | Oral Presentations The impending shortage of fossil fuels and environmental consequences of fossil fuel consumption are two of the most imperative problems in the world. This presentation is about a novel design of a solar reactor cavity system composed of a camera-like aperture and moving-wall system to house a unique thermo-fluid-chemical process known as ‘solar cracking’. Differing from typical solar powered Rankine cycles, solar cracking uses concentrated solar energy as a heat source for direct decomposition of natural gas into gaseous H2 and particulate carbon. This process offers a CO2 emission free hydrogen production method, as the carbon is collected in a high-grade and/ or nanotube form. However, solar cracking reactors have two implicit major problems: The intrinsic losses in energy conversion efficiency as a result of the high internal temperatures and corresponding re-radiation losses as well as the inherently transient nature of the solar energy. Literature on solar reactors reveals a distinct focus on optimal reactor design for steady state efficiency, but little regarding transient inefficiencies. This presentation provides an advanced perception to solar cracking reactors by presenting you the latest results of our research at Sustainable Energy Research Lab on the design of a ‘smart solar reactor’ that is sensitive to variations in solar flux, and can adjust itself accordingly to maintain quasi-equilibrium internal conditions. A unique system design is presented featuring a solar-flux intensity sensitive aperture that can enlarge the aperture diameter when the flux is low and reduce the diameter when the flux is high. Carbon particle deposition on the reactor window, walls, and at the exit. Carbon deposition. particularly at the exit, causes reactor clogging. There have been many innovative reactor designs aimed to achieve increased conversion efficiencies through novel flows developed at ETH-Zurich, CNRS-France, WISIsrael, Colorado-USA, Florida-USA, and DLR-Germany. From vortex-flow to tornado, and from fluidized bed to rotating cavity, the designs of these reactors have moved toward the goal of seeking enhanced flow conditions that result in improved overall efficiencies, but have not solved the carbon deposition problem. Our latest research results at Sustainable Energy Research Lab shows that our ‘aero-shielded cyclone solar reactor’ concept provides a laminar flow shield covering the walls as a thin layer flow with a velocity that is strong enough to sweep carbon particles away. This presentation will show you the results of our research on this concept with a 3D animation of the reactor. 80 | 81 EEO7 EEO8 Improving productivity and increasing Qatar reserves Author Institution Aggour Mohammed Qatar biofuel: research, development, education, infrastructure Authors Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Institutions At Texas A&M University at Qatar, the faculty, research staff, and students of the Petroleum Engineering Program are currently involved in and also planning for several research projects with four main objectives: improving productivity in Qatar’s oil and gas fields; increasing the petroleum reserves of Qatar; developing a strong base of Qatari professionals; and preserving the environment. One of our major projects is directed at enhancing the productivity of gascondensate reservoirs which are commonly reduced due to condensate blocking. Our research team is tackling the problem on various fronts including a comprehensive experimental study on the wettability changes of rocks that can enhance liquid mobility and gas productivity; a simulation study to identify the critical parameters that need to be considered when trying to optimize well productivity; and a fundamental study that is targeting analytical modeling of multi-phase flow and the stability of various states of wettability at reservoir conditions. Funding for the various aspects of this work is supported by the Qatar National Research Fund’s National Priorities Research Program (NPRP), RasGas, and Schlumberger. Another active research area related to productivity enhancement deals with acid stimulation in carbonate reservoirs, which applies to almost every well in Qatar. Part of the work is aimed at enhancing the recovery of spent acid to speed the clean up process and improve gas productivity after stimulation. Another part deals with the development of an acid-jetting process as an improved and more effective stimulation process. More work is in the initial stages that targets optimizing the stimulation treatments in Qatar. We are also actively working on developing models using artificial intelligence techniques to optimize applications of horizontal wells in gas condensate reservoirs with uncertain geological properties. Malcolm Potts, Roda Al Thani, Ghmaza Saed Hamd Al Ghazal, Mohamed Abdisalam, Eulian Roberts, Chris Schroeder, Amar Al Saady Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Qatar Science & Technology Park, Doha, Qatar Qatar Airways, Doha, Qatar Qatar National Research Fund, Doha, Qatar In view of the burgeoning market in international carbon trading and the longterm global regulatory constraints on fuel emissions, the need for an alternative to petroleum oil is both large and immediate. The primary goal of our project is to establish a global infrastructure for the production of biofuel from cyanobacteria and microalgae that can sustain economic and environmentally sound operations of the aviation industry. The business plan includes biofuel production as a driver for the development of a diverse biotechnology industry in Qatar, based on research, development, acquisition of intellectual properties, training and education. These activities are in full accordance with the 2030 National Vision for Sustainability in Qatar. The partners in this enterprise are the state airline of Qatar (Qatar Airways), the state university of Qatar (Qatar University) and the conduit for support of innovative research in Qatar; Qatar Science and Technology Park. Our research program is conceived to trigger the paradigm shift in technology that is required to make the near-term establishment of a viable biofuel technology in Qatar a reality. The program is focused on the growth, physiology and molecular biology of cyanobacteria and microalgae isolated from extreme terrestrial, freshwater and marine environments in Qatar. A diverse culture collection of photosynthetic microorganisms is now established at Qatar University and strains are currently under investigation for their utility in large-scale growth, expression of superior survival in engineered Qatar environments, amenability to novel harvesting techniques, and capacity for copious oil production. Our work on CO2 addresses two objectives: carbon sequestration and CO2 injection for improved oil recovery. We are conducting experimental, modeling, and simulation work to achieve these objectives. Energy & Environment | Oral Presentations 82 | 83 EEO9 EEO10 Developing an air quality modeling system for Qatar Authors Institutions Dianne Lecoeur, Ali Al Mulla, Claude Sadois, Azhari Ahmed TOTAL E&P Qatar, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Qatar Petroleum, Doha, Qatar The Qatar Air Quality Modelling System (QAQM) was developed by Qatar Petroleum (QP) and Total Research Centre - Qatar (TRC-Q) to elucidate the causes of the high ozone levels in Qatar’s lower atmosphere. Ozone formation is a complex phenomenon involving primary pollutants (nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds), solar radiation and local meteorological conditions. The pollutant’s long lifetimes underpin the need to consider their impact at regional, as well as local, scales. Meteorological simulations are obtained using well-known MM5 software. Using nested grids, simulations are first run at a large scale with coarse resolution and then refined over the Gulf and Qatar scales in successive iterations. This approach takes into account trans-boundary dispersion of pollutants along the Gulf, as well as local phenomena with a higher resolution (sea-breeze, local turbulence, etc.). A comprehensive emission inventory of ozone precursors has also been constructed at the regional and local scales. Various methodologies have been employed covering all activity sectors and scales (direct knowledge of industrial processes, statistical data combined with emission factors and road traffic emissions models). This emission inventory coupled with Geographical Information Systems produces a geo-referenced database of primary pollutants which serves as an input for the modelling platform. The CHIMERE photochemical model uses the dispersion and emission inventory previously generated as inputs, and then simulates the chemical reactions between pollutants at all steps, in space and time. The outputs from the model simulations were validated against meteorology and air quality data collected from various monitoring stations in Qatar. They showed a global acceptable agreement. This study has also improved the scientific knowledge on processes involved in the ozone cycle in the Gulf region. Efforts in the State of Qatar to conserve and monitor endangered marine turtles Author Institution Mehsin Abdulla Al Ansi Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Marine turtles are listed as endangered and they belong to Animal Kingdom phylum Chordata, class Reptilia and are descendants from early reptiles. Marine turtles are long-living and the females lay many eggs. Each year, thousands of hatchlings emerge from their nests along many coastlines across the world. Natural obstacles faced by young and adult sea turtles are numerous and on the increase, including natural predators and human exploitation. Unfortunately, only an estimated one in 1000 to 10000 will survive to adulthood. Together with marine biologists at Qatar University, studies on marine turtles in the State of Qatar were initiated in 2002, sponsored by Ras Laffan Industrial City. The outcome of the 2002 study provided the baseline data needed for subsequent studies. It has now been established that only one species of the endangered extant marine turtles, the Hawksbill turtle, nests in the Gulf area and in Qatar along the northeastern sandy beaches and islands (Ras Laffan, Fewairit, Al Maronah, Al Ghariyah, Jazirat Ras Rakan, Jazirat Umm Al Tays and Halul Island). Studies showed that Ras Laffan City is a major nesting area [No. of nests recorded since 2001: (2001: 74), (2002: 240), (2003:208), (2004: 190), (2005: 229), (2006:129), (2007:76), (2009: 72)]. An outcome of the studies since 2002 showed that females average clutch size varies between 65-78 eggs, which are incubated for 51-57 days in a nest temperature of 28.6⁰C – 33.3⁰C. Since 2009, efforts to monitor the nesting population along the Qatar coastline have started and the satellite tracking of females continues. This showed the females remain in the Gulf waters between Ras Laffan moving north (Kingdom Bahrain – Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) and south to the UAE. One tracked female travelled a maximum distance of 1917 km in 147 days. A number of females have been tagged to date, of which 3 tagged in 2005 returned to nest in 2009. Between 2009 and 2010 over 40 females were tagged. The QP QAQM platform can be used as a planning tool to assess the environmental impact of new industrial activities. It is also a suitable basis for further developments in the field of air quality monitoring, forecasts and mitigation. TRC-Q is currently building on this successful experience to develop new technologies as an answer to the environmental challenges resulting from the extraordinary growth currently enjoyed by Qatar. Energy & Environment | Oral Presentations 84 | 85 EEO11 EEO12 Pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) chlorophyll a fluorometry for monitoring the health of corals along the coast of Qatar Authors Institutions Adeyinka Adenikan, Cecile Richard, Edourd Horlin, Romain Le Gall Thibault Schvartz, Eric Dutrieux Qatar Sustainable Water & Energy Utilization Initiative (QWE). Water and environmental research activities at TAMUQ Authors Institution Ahmed Abdelwahab, Patrick Linke Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar ExxonMobil Research, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Creocean, Doha, Qatar The Arabian Gulf is shallow, sub-tropical and semi-enclosed, all factors that promote large variations in the properties of its water. The extreme natural variations, in association with global changes such as the increasing pH of the oceans and climate change, make the ecosystem balance of the Gulf very fragile. A one-year-long study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of PAM (pulse amplitude modulation) chlorophyll a fluorometry in monitoring the health of sensitive ecosystems, such as coral reefs, around Qatar. The immediate objectives were: (i) to evaluate the efficacy of the PAM chlorophyll fluorometry technique as a means of assessing sub-lethal stress in corals; (ii) to calibrate and validate this technique for future ecosystem monitoring applications in this local environment; and (iii) to collect environmental data to attempt to correlate detected changes in stress status to changes in the magnitude of environmental factors that are known to affect these organisms. The study consisted of four field surveys conducted at approximately quarterly time intervals, at two monitoring stations. PAM fluorometry measurements were complemented by detailed visual assessments of the health status of the ecosystems following a traditional belt transect method, continuous recording of seawater temperature, underwater light intensity measurement and water quality monitoring. Texas A&M University at Qatar (TAMUQ) has very active and well-established environmental and water research and development program. TAMUQ has recently founded the Qatar Sustainable Water and Energy Utilization Initiative (QWE) which is a center of excellence for open and cooperative research, and capacity building established to address the sustainable environmental, water and energy efficiency issues relevant to Qatar. With current R&D projects worth in excess of USD 6 million, the QWE builds upon a strong scientific and technological base of direct relevance to Qatar. The QWE initiative aims to sustain and expand this critical knowledge resource to provide knowledge and technology transfer to stakeholders; to provide technical services; to provide continuity to the R&D efforts; to support long-term national programs; to engage in campaigns to promote the need for environmental protection and sustainable water and energy utilization to the wider public; and, of special importance, to develop the human capacity needed to address scientific and technical issues related to Qatar’s current and future needs in these areas. The QWE team consists of twelve highly qualified research staff members is working on several research projects which are of direct benefit to the Qatar community. Current research projects cover the following areas: • Environmental impact assessment and management Results of both types of observations indicated different degrees of sub-lethal stress on most of the coral species at Fuwayrit and Halul. While the visual signs of stress were difficult to quantify, the PAM fluorescence data provided a clearer indication of the stress being experienced by the organisms at the time of the surveys. • Integrated water resources management For one particular species of coral at the Fuwayrit site, PAM measurements of photosynthetic efficiency proved to be a good predictor of imminent mortality. • Hazardous waste management Based on data from the Halul site, it can be inferred that the PAM fluorometry method did not give false indications of stress for healthy corals. The presentation will outline the initiative and share results and insights developed across the numerous research projects carried out at the QWE. We will specifically focus on the direct link between research and capacity building activities and the development of tailored solutions to real problems observed in the region. This study has demonstrated that PAM fluorometry can improve our ability to monitor the health of corals in the Qatar and Gulf environment by providing objective data on the photosynthetic performances and the state of stress of these organisms. Energy & Environment | Oral Presentations • Hybrid desalination systems and systems analysis for solar desalination • Zero liquid discharge systems • Water and energy systems analysis, integration and optimization • Advanced water and wastewater treatment processes 86 | 87 Poster Presentations EEP1 Adaptive transmission for spectrum-sharing cognitive systems Authors Institution Mohamed Mahmoud Abdallah, Khalid Qaraqe، Mohamed Slim Alouini Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar The concept of cognitive networks has recently emerged as an efficient means for utilizing the scarce spectrum by allowing spectrum sharing between a licensed primary network and a secondary network. Cognitive networks can be divided into three different types; namely, interweave, underlay, and overlay. For the interweave type, the secondary users are only allowed to use the spectrum of the primary network whenever it is idle, which requires continuous sensing of the primary spectrum by the secondary network. For the underlay network, simultaneous transmissions are allowed by letting the secondary network share the spectrum with the primary network, under the condition of maximum interference power level allowed at the primary receiver. Finally, for the overlay type, the secondary network is aware of the signal characteristics of the primary network that are exploited to achieve an enhanced performance for the secondary network by minimizing the interference incurred by the primary transmissions. In this poster, we present an overview of the three types of cognitive networks. We focus on the underlay cognitive network model, whereby we present the fundamental capacity results of these networks under various power constraints on both the transmit power and the interference power attained at the primary receiver. We then explore practical methods for achieving these capacity results by employing adaptive transmission techniques at the secondary users. EEP2 Biopesticide research and development: for safer agriculture, food and environment Authors Institutions Samir Jaoua, Roda Al Thani, Slim Tounsi, Dhabia Al Thani, Fatma Al Saadi Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Centre of Biotechnology of Sfax, Sfax, Tunisia In the frame of the protection of the environment that is continuously polluted by the massive use of chemical pesticides, we carried out a joint R&D project, on the development of biological pesticides using local bacterial strains isolated from Qatar and Tunisia. Microbial bioinsecticides were shown to be an efficient tool to control plant pests as well as human disease vectors. The Bacillus thuringiensis elta-endotoxins are the most valuable bioinsecticides currently used in commercial agriculture, forest management and mosquito control. This Gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium produces parasporal crystals composed of insecticidal elta-endotoxins. They exhibit a high specificity of insecticidal toxicity towards lepidopteran, coleopteran and dipteran insect species. From both Qatar and Tunisia, hundreds of strains of B. thuringiensis were isolated and studied and their bioinsecticides coding genes cry were cloned and characterized. Among the Tunisian strains, we evidenced the abundance of the kurstaki subspecies active on the lepidopteran olive tree pathogenic insect P. oleae, whereas from the Qatari soil samples, we found large heterogeneity among the isolated strains. Moreover Bti strains, used for the control of disease vector mosquitoes, were more abundant in the Qatari Bt strain collection than in the Tunisian one. On the other hand, very particular Qatari B. thuringiensis strains synthesizing particular crystals and harbouring different plasmid profiles and probably synthesizing novel insecticides were evidenced. Besides the genetic and molecular investigations, the development of a fermentation process for B. thuringiensis bioinsecticides production was also carried out and allowed us to do the scale-up of the production of bioinsecticides in a 430 litre fermenter. Important quantities of biological and environmentally safe insecticides were produced and applied successfully in the field. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 88 | 89 EEP3 EEP4 Incipient fault diagnostics of rotating electrical machines using adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system Authors Institution Atif Iqbal, Haitham Abu Rub, SK Moin Ahmed Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar First-ever research on the basic ecology of the Ethiopian hedgehog (Paraechinus aethiopicus) in Qatar Author Institution Nobuyuki Yamaguchi Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Condition monitoring and fault diagnostics of electrical machines are extremely important in any industrial setup. In some applications, such as the oil and gas industries, production units, power generation, refining and milling, the failure of critical equipment like generators, milling machines, motors, fans and pumps costs millions of dollars in reduced output, emergency maintenance costs and lost revenues. However, in the utility industry, malfunctioning of the electrical machinery is not acceptable not only because of its financial damage, but also Biodiversity conservation attracts much attention all over the world, highlighted in 2010, the United Nation’s International Year of Biodiversity. Effective biodiversity conservation needs basic biological and environmental information, including the behavior and ecology of organisms. The Ethiopian hedgehog (Paraechinus aethiopicus), which is well adapted to the desert environment, is a common species in Qatar and yet little is known concerning their behavior and ecology. We are conducting the first ever research in the Gulf Cooperation the threat that is caused by a sudden failure or malfunctioning of the part. Council (GCC) countries on the ecology and behavior of the Ethiopian hedgehog using radio-tracking, supported by the Undergraduate Research Experience Programme (UREP) awarded by the Qatar National Research Fund. The project is still ongoing and we have captured 48 different hedgehogs between April and June 2010, and put radio-tags on 13 (six females and seven males) animals so far. We followed them to collect data for investigating their spatial patterns and habitat preferences during the breeding season (spring and summer) where we found that males’ ranges are larger than those of females. We are currently conducting our fieldwork to investigate these ranges during the non-breeding season (autumn and winter). One of our hypotheses is that males’ ranges during the non-breeding season would be smaller than those during the breeding season whilst there would be no clear difference in females range. We expect that we would be able to collect enough data by December to present the results at the Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum. The research is aimed at developing a system that will detect incipient failures of electrical machinery before actual failure results in system or industrial process disruption. The objective is to make repeatable decisions based on complex relationships between large amounts of measured and estimated data. The condition of the machines will be available at all times, and the incipient detection and predictive maintenance system will provide an accurate prediction of any potential failure on demand. Two techniques are under consideration, the first one is based on pattern recognition that analyzes electrical measurements of electrical components to characterize the profile of electric machines at the beginning of life for a ‘baseline signature’. Then, at regular intervals, or when a failure is suspected, the technique will be used to derive the present profile and compare it with the ‘baseline’ profile. The other method is based on adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The synergy of artificial neural network and expert fuzzy logic yield ANFIS that is a simple and effective diagnostic tool not requiring precise mathematical models of the motor and controllers. The proposed ANFIS controller will provide qualitative and quantitative knowledge of the health of a rotating machine through valid heuristic reasoning. Various types of electrical and mechanical faults will be investigated and the technique based on expert knowledge (ANFIS system) will be utilized for incipient fault diagnostics. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 90 | 91 EEP5 EEP6 Potentials for commercialization of novel Fischer-Tropsch reactor technology Authors Institutions Nimir Elbashir, Eman Tora, Elfatih Elmalik, Mahmoud El Halwagi Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA This paper comprises of a preliminary in-depth analysis of the technoeconomic criteria for the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) solvent selection. Both conventional media (i.e. gas phase FTS and liquid phase FTS) as well as non-conventional media (near-critical and supercritical phase FTS) were examined, with an emphasis on non-conventional media FTS for the design and commercialization of a novel FTS reactor technology. Supercritical and near critical fluids (SCFs) are attractive for several reasons, highlighted by their ability to overcome some of the major limitations of current commercial technologies (e.g. transport limitations in the slurry reactor, and thermal limitations in multi-tubular reactors). Due to single phase operation of SCFs, these solvents are unique media for chemical reactions as they operate with densities that are sufficient to afford substantial dissolution power, while also providing diffusivities that are higher than normal liquids and viscosities that are lower than their liquid counterparts. High temperature Fischer-Tropsch (HTFT) was the center of examinations, but LTFT was considered as well. A wide array of hydrocarbon solvents was reviewed, ranging from propane to decane, with numerous blends of two or more of the mentioned paraffins. Several fuel cuts were studied as well, such as light and heavy naphtha and diesel. Understanding the transport and thermodynamic behavior as well as economic benefit of these said solvents is essential to the success of an advanced FTS reactor model. Also, the interaction of the solvents with in-situ reaction mixture and products further insures single-phase operation and feasibility. Supported gold nanocatalyst for low temperature CO oxidation and combustion of volatile organic compounds (VOC) Author Institution Khaled Saoud Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Carbon monoxide (CO) and volatile organic compounds (VOC), such as butadiene and isoprene, are air pollutants emitted by many industrial sources, such as burning of wood and fuel with poor ventilation, and by natural sources including forest fires or volcanic eruptions. It was found that these compounds are also significantly abundant in many industrial processes. Therefore, low-temperature catalytic oxidation of CO and combustion of VOC is one of the most important problems in catalysis, since even small exposures to CO or VOC (ppm) can be lethal. Catalytic oxidation is one effective method of removing CO. Nanoparticle catalysts are characterized by a large surface area, high dispersion and strong metal-support interaction. It is therefore expected that nanoparticle catalysts would show high catalytic activity for the low temperature oxidation of CO. Our results demonstrate the application of the vapor phase synthesis to synthesize supported and unsupported nanoparticle catalysts for CO oxidation. The method is based on the laser vaporization/controlled condensation (LVCC) technique of gold (Au) and copper (Cu) nanoparticles supported on a variety of oxide supports such as CeO2, TiO2, CuO and MgO. Our results indicate that Au nanoparticles supported on CeO2 exhibit higher catalytic activity than Au supported on other oxides. This high activity is attributed to the strong interaction of Au with CeO2. The results also indicate that 5 % Au loading on CeO2 has higher activity than 2% Au or 10% Au. The effect of preparation method on the catalytic activity is investigated. It was found that the catalytic activity for 5%Au/CeO2 prepared by the chemical (depositionprecipitation) method is higher than the catalytic activity of Au/CeO2 prepared by physical (LVCC). In any combustion system, there are significant amounts of other toxic gases,besides CO, such as nitric oxide, butadiene, and isoprene. We investigated the catalytic activity of the Au/CeO2 nanoparticle catalyst in the presence of 1000 ppm of butadiene and in the presence of 1000 ppm of isoprene. Our results indicate the combustion of butadiene and isoprene to CO2 and H2O, as supported by the mass spectrum and the CO conversion curve. Finally, the Au/CeO2 nanoparticle catalyst can be an active catalyst for selective CO oxidation at temperatures below 300oC even in the presence of VOC. Furthermore, this catalyst shows great promise for the low temperature combustion of VOC such as butadiene and isoprene. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 92 | 93 EEP7 EEP8 Study of interrelationship between atmospheric turbulence with oceanic wave motions Authors Institution Ahmad Assem Jichi, Reza Sadr, Arindam Singha Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar The exchange of momentum between the wind and the ocean surface is the primary source of various oceanic phenomena, both in large (e.g., El Niño) and small-scales (e.g., generation of wind waves, storm surge and coastal upwellings). Based on the existing literature on wind-wave interaction, it can be suggested that a unique missing link exists between the standard atmospheric and oceanic-circulation models. This is due to the inherent difficulty in the theoretical formulation of the models describing the phenomena and experimental measurement of the contributing factors in the near ocean surface wind measurement and surface pattern dynamics. An experimental site was acquired at the under-construction New Doha International Airport in Qatar to help throw light on the aforementioned difficulty. The site is in an area with light aircraft traffic and is surrounded by a 6m deep ocean and almost flat terrain in all directions. Wind velocity measured at more than 7m/s comes over the ocean surface around morning time. An array of three sonic anemometers, thermocouples, net radiometer, two digital cameras and a complete weather station are to be installed on the site. The sonic anemometers are intended to measure the wind velocity and direction at different elevations from the ocean surface. The digital cameras will work synchronously with the anemometers to acquire images of the ocean surface. A variation wave acquisition stereo system will be used to reconstruct the 3D elevation of the ocean wave based on the principle of stereo reconstruction. At the end, the plausible link between the atmospheric and oceanic phenomenon will be explored experimentally which will lead to a better prediction model. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations Genetic and environmental variation among Qatari date palm cultivars assessed by DNA markers Author Institution Talaat Ahmed Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Date palms are generally propagated by separating the offshoots produced by individual trees. This method maintains the genetic integrity of date palm cultivars. However, well known date palm cultivars that are grown in different environments show little differences in fruit morphology and quality such as color and sweetness. The objective of the present research project is to analyze the genetic diversity among most common cultivars of Qatari date palms as well as the genetic variation within each cultivar grown in different environments in Qatar. Samples of the five most common date palm cultivars in Qatar; Khalas, Sheshy, Rezezy, Barhee and Khanezy were collected at three locations with different environments Al-Shamal, Al-Khour and Al-Rayan, Qatar. For each cultivar, samples were collected from three trees that showed little variation in their fruit morphology and quality. Genetic similarity or diversity among and within these cultivars was then analyzed using Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers. A total of 18 ISSR single primers were used to amplify DNA bands using genomic DNA from the date palm samples. All of the primers used have amplified polymorphic bands in the studied cultivars either among the cultivars or within each cultivar in different cultivated environments. The results indicate the existence of genetic variations among the studied cultivars. Moreover, trees of the same cultivar that are grown in different environments show different DNA banding patterns explaining the variation in morphological and quality characters within each cultivar. 94 | 95 EEP9 EEP10 Development of a high-speed, magnetically-loaded energy storage system Author Institution Nazar Al Khayat Williams Technology Center, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Williams Formula One (WF1) is one of the world’s leading racing teams and has pioneered many technological innovations for racing cars in the past thirty years. Williams Technology Centre (WTC) is a recently formed company that is focused on exploiting one of the technologies WF1 has been nurturing for hybrid automotive applications, flywheel storage. WTC business objectives are; the advancement of a cost-effective energy storage and power delivery pack to boost performance and improve efficiencies across multiple industries such as transportation, telecommunications, renewable energy, industrial, and aerospace. Applications of energy storage technology will lead to a reduction of fuel consumption, greenhouse emissions and improvement in system efficiency. The enabling technologies for the WTC power pack are a magnetically loaded composite (MLC) rotor and a power electronics inverter (PEI). MLC is formed by mixing magnetic particles into a carbon based matrix filament. Glass and carbon fibres are added to the MLC layer to provide mechanical stability at high speed operation. The rotor is magnetized into a Halbach arrangement to eliminate back iron and generate a sinusoidal field distribution in the air gap. Another key enabling technology that will be developed by WTC is the power electronics inverter. The inverter will regulate the machine input/output using advanced pulse width modulation techniques. Advanced motor control strategies are currently being investigated to maximise system efficiencies and robustness in case of faults. Endangered wild plants in Qatar Author Institution Noora Jabor Al Thani Qatar University, Doha, Qatar A wide range of natural processes, invasive plants and human activity have had a strong impact on the stability of the ecosystem, leading to the destruction of plants habitats and plant endangerment or even extinction. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, together with the Natural History Museum, London, and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has revealed that the world’s plants are as threatened as mammals, with one in five of the world’s plant species threatened with extinction. Wild plants make an important contribution to the life of local communities. Some plant species in Qatar, are endangered like Rhanterium epapposum Oliv. (Arhaj), Convolvulus pilosellifolius Desr. (Malbow), Dipcadi erythraeum Webb&Berthel. (Miselmow), Glossonema varians (Stocks) Benth. Ex Hook.f. (Yarawah), Prosopis cineraria (Ghaf). Unless action is taken to stop such decline and a mechanism is put in place to reverse and preserve these wild endangered plants, we will be faced with the danger of their extinction the near future. Therefore, it is critical to have a knowledge of assessment and protection measures, such as replanting and propagating through the technology of tissue culture, to turn around loss of biodiversity in Qatar. Supported by a Qatar Foundation grant, WTC is currently building an engineering design office and electronic and mechanical engineering workshop to advance the development of a high power/energy flywheel. Efforts are ongoing to employ key specialists and development engineers to work on components and system engineering issues. The full paper will discuss the key features of the flywheel technology and compare its performance against other technologies like super capacitors and lithium ion batteries. The paper will also review the ongoing engineering effort and technical advances necessary to support prototype/product development. Assessment of typical markets and applications will also be discussed. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 96 | 97 EEP12 EEP11 Real-time, online, air quality monitoring sensor network Author Institution Osama Kubar Qatar University Wireless Innovations Center, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Environmental monitoring is an important tool in the overall environmental management strategy. In particular, a planned monitoring strategy can help in quantifying the level of impact that has occurred during country/region development and enables the predictions of potential air pollution changes to be verified. A quantitative assessment of environmental change following industrial activities is important when future environmental liabilities need to be considered. Additionally, environmental monitoring data can enable a better understanding of the processes by which impacts may arise. Traditional environmental monitoring systems are characterized by bulky nodes, expense (in the range of USD 1 million ), and disperse (tens of kilometers) nodal allocation. Traditional systems rely on extrapolating localized measurements to project air quality information over a large geographical area. Therefore, along with the high cost, traditional networks suffer from inaccurate predications/ assessment to regional mapping of air quality information, as well as nonflexible gas monitoring and selection. As a result, many research institutes and governmental agencies worldwide are actively involved in research activities for finding more robust and costeffective alternatives. The underlying technology for those activities is the utilization of wireless sensor networks (WSN). WSN promise to bring low cost, large scale advanced remote monitoring and automated applications to a wide range of technical areas and industries. In addition to lowering capital and operating expenses, WSN provides improved reliability, increased installation flexibility and scalability. The project aims to architect, design, and develop an innovative solution utilizing the WSN. The solution under consideration is ubiquitous and cost effective and provides real-time data transmission and remote/online data processing and accessibility. Innovative, smaller, inexpensive and with different sensing capability, sensor nodes are integral to the solution. Such sensors are emerging, but not yet mature, and therefore substantial effort will be invested in working with sensor vendors to ensure the design and development of the right sensor nodes. Optimal resource allocation for relay-assisted wireless communication systems Authors Institution Mohammad Obaidah Shaqfeh, Hussein Alnuweiri Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar The design, analysis and optimization of cooperative/relaying communication systems have recently become a very active research area within both the information theory as well as communications engineering societies. It is now well understood that relaying strategies can improve the coverage of wireless networks by providing higher data rates or better transmission reliability to user terminals at the edge of a wireless cell, or terminals having faded connectivity with the base station. Relaying technologies are also becoming part of the telecommunication standards. Although we can find studies, in the academic literature, on advanced relaying schemes, which are based on user terminals cooperating to help each other while applying decentralized resource allocation strategies, the first actual deployment step which will take place within the 3GPP long-term evolution (LTE)-advanced standard is based on fixed access points to do the relaying and within a centralized scheme in which the e-nodeB (base station with backhaul connection) takes the scheduling and resource allocation decisions. One major objective in 3GPP evolution is to utilize the scarce wireless system resources efficiently because achieving the high quality of service (QoS) targets through over-provisioning is uneconomical due to the relatively high cost for transmission capacity in cellular access networks. Our objective here is to obtain the optimal (from an information theory perspective) resource allocation schemes taking into considerations the system constraints that are relevant to the LTE-advanced standard. We have been able to derive optimal resource allocation polices that are provably based on closed-form formulations which are practical for implementation. They include the policies for (i) transmission mode selection (i.e. deciding whether the user needs the assistance of a relay or not), (ii) power allocation for the base station and the relays, and (iii) criterion for user scheduling over the available air-link resource units. Simulation results demonstrate that our proposed resource allocation scheme provides considerable throughput gains especially for users receiving low power through the direct link with the base station. The project also includes research activities related to innovative network architecture for robustness and cost effectiveness as well as software development activities for data processing, information presentation and dissemination. This will ensure that localized and personalized information can be delivered to diverse customers. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 98 | 99 EEP13 EEP14 Preparation, characterization and investigation of CO2 adsorption behavior of zinc-magnesium carbonate compounds Authors Institutions Ferdi Karadas, Cafer Yavuz, Galen Stucky, Mert Atilhan Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Korean Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejon, Republic of Korea University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA The capture of CO2 from flue gases derived from fossil fuelled power plants and the absorption of CO2 from natural gas sweetening processes are two relevant industrial problems closely related with very important environmental, economical and technological problems that need to be solved. Porous inorganic compounds have received attention in recent years due to their possible applications in the carbon dioxide capture and storage field. In this work, we prepared new metal carbonates by reacting CO32- solution with solutions of Zn2+-Mg2+ metal ions in different stoichiometric ratios. The samples were characterized with powder x-ray diffraction analysis (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Furthermore, these samples were measured with a Rubotherm magnetic suspension balance to investigate their CO2 adsorption behavior and performance. Ecologies of scale: strategies for designing culturally and environmentally relevant neighborhoods in Doha, Qatar Authors Institution Rami El Samahy, Kelly Hutzell, Kristina Ricco, Spencer Gregson Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar In the past decade, Qatar’s population has experienced unprecedented growth. The country has nearly trebled in size, from 522,000 residents in 1997, to over 1,500,000 today. Of that total, 82% is said to live in the metropolitan area of Doha. As phenomenal as this growth may be, however, it is both environmentally and culturally unsustainable. Until now, the tendency has been to build in a speculative manner — a tendency to build all at once without full consideration of how to fill it. As a result, a sprawl of air-conditioned two and three story buildings dominates the landscape. The climatic constraints are real: while the weather is quite livable for half the year, the hottest four to six months of the year can be difficult to bear, with little rainfall to offset the extreme temperatures. Architects and urban designers address these issues in a manner that is unique to the design field, an approach that can be termed ‘design research’. It is both quantitative and qualitative in nature, and necessitates an iterative approach whereby proposals, based on initial collection of data, are created and then refined as a result of reflection on the artifact created. In this sense, the act of creation itself becomes part of the research, and a means towards a solution. For this project, the solution proposed centers on an idealized box, a simple yet carefully calibrated object that accommodates a plethora of programs, structural options and enclosures. The box can accept myriad functions and can be easily transported to the site on an as-needed basis. A variety of façade and roof strategies based on performative criteria can help reduce solar gain and create a richly diverse architectural language. Orientation and function dictate not only the façade direction, but also the building massings, as well as height and distance between buildings, thereby resulting in shaded and wellventilated streets. With a set of basic rules, the aggregation of buildings can occur organically over time, as opposed to the current model. At each stage of development, appropriately-scaled public spaces accompany the buildings, including the garden, the courtyard and the plaza. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 100 | 101 EEP15 EEP16 Laser ultrasonic inspection, a new inspection technique and its effects on the integrity and surface properties of the metallic surfaces Effects of GTL fuels on aircraft gas turbine altitude ignition combustor operability Authors Authors Institution Maqbool Mohammed, Uvais Qidwai Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Laser ultrasonic inspection (LUI) is the name given to the techniques in which a laser beam interacts with the surface of a test sample and replaces piezoelectric transducers for launching and probing elastic sound waves. When this wave returns to the surface, a separate laser interferometer detects the small resulting displacement. This technique is strictly non-contact and is therefore suitable for in-process inspection of parts while at high temperature or moving at high speed. In the field of non-destructive techniques (NDT), the association of laser generation with optical detection provides a completely remote inspection system. As this process involves hitting of high power laser beam on to the surface to be inspected and ablation of the superficial layer of the surface, one of the objections from the conventional oil and gas industry to LUI system is apprehension of potential damage or adverse effect on the surface property and integrity. This possible problem is seen as severe on pressurized pipes to the extent of being dangerous to the system. This work attempts to present a qualification methodology which was experimentally applied to known metallic samples and with standard LUI testing conditions. Binary image processing techniques have been used with hybrid filtering and statistical measurements to quantify the findings. A relational approach is used within the digital image processing domain to qualify the extent of metal loss that occurs during a prolonged exposure of the clean metallic surface to the laser beam. A comparative study has been done on Duplex steel (UNS S31803) and Carbon steel. Samples were studied for relative metal loss, possible changes in hardness and micro-structural anomalies (if any). A new qualification method has been developed using digital image processing to approximate the damage sustained by the exposure. The results are quite promising and alleviate many doubts that conventional NDT experts may have in connection with the LUI system, especially in the oil and gas scenarios. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations Institutions Reza Sadr, John Moran, Darren Fyffe, Kumaran Kannaiyan Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Rolls Royce Strategic Research Centre, QSTP, Doha, Qatar The current kerosene fuel used in aviation turbines is tightly controlled to a well defined specification. This fuel specification is a result of the past 50 years of simultaneous research and development between the aviation turbine industry, especially the combustion system, and kerosene jet fuel chemistry. Recently, there has been a ground swell of interest in alternative fuels for aviation, where the fuels can be made from a variety of feedstocks and processes. The chemistry and composition of species within future alternative fuels will change from the current kerosene jet fuel specifications; therefore research has been carried out looking at the effects of some of the fundamental component species that will be found in potential future fuels. The fuels being researched in this programme have been specifically chosen to look like fuels that could be produced in the gas-to-liquid (GTL) plants currently under construction in Qatar. Tests were conducted on the Rolls-Royce plc TRL3 sub-atmospheric altitude ignition facility in Derby, UK. The facility was operated at simulated altitude conditions of combustor air inlet pressure and temperature, and fuel inlet conditions to represent combustor conditions following flame-out during high altitude cruise. The gas turbine combustion, ignition and stability characteristics were studied by measurement of the successful ignition and flame stability using a series of GTL SPK-type fuels. The combustor under test was a multisector representation of an advanced gas turbine combustor and fuel injector. The GTL SPK-type fuels were selected to generate a pseudo-design of experiments (DoE) matrix in which the iso- to normal- paraffin ratio, cyclic paraffin content and carbon number range were varied in order to isolate the effects of each. Tests were conducted at combinations of air mass flow rate and fuel-air ratio necessary to map the regimes of successful ignition and flame stability. Results for all the fuels tested showed no deterioration to the weak boundary of the ignition regime, or the weak extinction limits within the scatter of the experimental method. Evidence was found that 100% GTL SPK from Shell’s production facility in Bintulu, Malaysia, as well as one of the DoE blends, have greater ignition performance at simulated altitude conditions. 102 | 103 EEP18 EEP17 Life cycle assessment of polymers in Qatar Authors Institution Nesibe Gozde Ozerkan, Mariam Al Ma’adeed, Ramazan Kahraman Non-invasive method to examine the diet of the spiny-tailed lizard, Uromastyx aegyptia microlepis, in Qatar Authors Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Institutions Life cycle assessment (LCA) is gaining wider acceptance as a method that evaluates the environmental burdens associated with a product, process or activity by identifying and quantifying energy and materials used and wastes released to the environment, and assesses the impact of the energy and material used and released to the environment. It is also considered as one of the best environmental management tools that can be used to compare alternative eco-performances of recycling or disposal systems. In this study, life cycle assessments of polymer recycling are reviewed with a view to protecting the global environment and to control waste in the polymer industry in Qatar. Incremental increases in population in this region have resulted in a dramatic increase in plastic consumption and unfortunately, the waste management system has not been properly managed to date. During the study, real data from the industry was used in the analysis of the environmental impact of plastics recycling by applying the LCA methodology to the products and processes involved in recycling. The results obtained will help to understand the importance of the use of recycled polymer materials and highlight the clear advantages from an eco-efficiency viewpoint, of plastic recycling against direct manufacturing from petroleum. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations April Ann Torres Conkey, Renee Richer, Aurora Castilla, John Tribuna, Rita Chan Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Forest Technology Centre of Catalonia, Solsona, Spain National Museum of Natural Sciences, Madrid, Spain Qatar Natural History Group, Doha, Qatar Qatar Veterinary Center, Doha, Qatar In this pilot study, we show that a non-invasive technique, fecal analysis, can be used to positively identify diet contents in the spiny-tailed agamid lizard (Uromastyx aegyptia microlepis) in the wild. We examined U. a. microlepis fecal samples collected in the Kharrara region of Qatar and identified over 25 species of desert plants. In addition to the native flora, grains of barley (Hordeum vulgare) were identified in the samples suggesting that Uromastyx can benefit from livestock feed. We also found the remains of invertebrates, vertebrates and stones. The types of vertebrate remains found suggest scavenging behavior; the first evidence of scavenging for this species which has, to date, been considered a strict herbivore. Other studies on Uromastyx have pumped the stomach or killed the animal to retrieve dietary samples. We show that fecal analysis is a suitable technique for dietary examination in herbivorous lizards and, as it is non-invasive, complies easily with institutional review board requirements for ethical animal treatment. 105 | 105 104 EEP19 EEP20 Integrated pest management as an alternative to chemical pesticides with low environmental impact Author Institution Fluid-rock interaction in carbonates - the impact of flow rate and grain size distribution on limestone dissolution at the laboratory column scale Emad Hussein Al Turaihi Ministry of Environment, Doha, Qatar Authors Institution During the last four decades, synthetic chemical pesticides have provided many benefits to agriculture and food production, but they pose some hazardous problems to humans, animals and environment. Chemical pesticides leave undesirable residues in food, water and the environment where they are not used properly. It is estimated that one million people are affected by chemical pesticide poisoning every year and more than 20,000 die as a result of being unaware of the risks involved in the handling or use of chemical pesticides. This study showed that integrated pest management (IPM) was an effective alternative to synthetic chemical pesticides. The study also revealed that the components of IPM, such as cultural practices, biological control, pheromone traps, soil solarization and plant extracts provided cost effective and environmentally sound methods to control agricultural pests and diseases. As a result many growers and researchers are applying an IPM approach to maintain pest populations at levels below those causing economically unacceptable damage or loss. In addition, this study has identified the use of IPM methods in the Arabian Gulf countries to manage some insects and diseases affecting date palm trees. The main goal of IPM is to reduce any harmful impact chemical pesticides may have on humans, wildlife, soil and water quality. The usage of chemical pesticides in the IPM programme should be rational, judicious and applied at the most vulnerable time in an insect/disease life cycle. Oussama Gharbi, Zhadyra Azimova, Martin Blunt, Branko Bijeljic Imperial College, London, UK As part of the project studying the fundamentals of carbonate reservoir pore/fracture scale physics and chemistry within the Qatar Carbonates and Carbon Storage Research Centre at Imperial College London, sponsored by Qatar Petroleum, Shell and Qatar Science and Technology Park, we present experimental data on the dynamics of fluid-rock interaction during acid injection in carbonate rock. This has implications for CO2 sequestration in geological sinks as well as in well acidization that has been used in carbonate reservoirs to enhance oil recovery. The effect of grain size distribution and flow rate on dissolution kinetics was studied in laboratory columns packed with calcite grains at ambient conditions. For each set of different experiments the columns were packed with 150250µm (fine), 300-500µm (medium) and 600-850µm (coarse) calcite grains. The evolution of fluid-rock interaction was investigated by using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) to study the time dependent profiles in Ca2+ cation concentrations inside the column and in the effluent stream. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging technique was performed prior to, and after, acid injection to illuminate the nature of calcite dissolution at the rock surface. ICP-AES and SEM analysis highlighted the complex nature of the dissolution, characterized by the creation of additional surface roughness and wormholes in single grains that resulted in the formation of a more heterogeneous porous medium. The in situ Ca2+ concentration, measured by slicing the column at the outlet, is greater than the effluent concentration, confirming that Ca2+ resides in stagnant regions of the pore space. After starting acid injection, the chemical reaction occurs in the column, resulting in a gradual increase in Ca2+ concentration in the effluent that eventually reaches a steady-state value. Thus, the time needed to reach this steady state defines an important time-dependent reaction dynamics regime. The duration of this regime is longer as the grain size distribution becomes finer. As the finer media has a more complex structural heterogeneity, the corresponding surface area takes a longer time to be reached by the injected acid and the transport of the created products takes a longer time to breakthrough. This implies a transport-limited reaction. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 106 | 107 EEP21 EEP22 Using clumped isotopes to help understand isotopic sector zoning in calcite Author Institution Improving stable carbon and oxygen isotope geochemical measurements in dolomite: reference material and acid fractionation factor Iain Andrew MacDonald Imperial College, London, UK Author Institution Debated among scientists for decades, observations of compositional differences between different crystallographic faces within a same growth zone, called ‘sector zoning’, represents a major challenge for geochemistry and in particular for isotope geochemistry. Nowadays, convincing evidence for the existence of sector zoning has been reported in the literature. However, no consensus on the mechanisms triggering sector zoning has been reached. Understanding how and why sector zoning occurs is essential because the presence of sector zoning could skew the isotopic characterization of a carbonate mineral depending on the area being sampled. This would result in an ambiguous interpretation of the data. The emphasis of this study, which is part of the Qatar Carbonates and Carbon Storage Research Center (QCCSRC), is therefore placed on deciphering the different processes leading to isotopic sector zoning in calcite, with the help of a new tool: the clumped isotopes (i.e. isotopologues). Large calcite crystals with clearly visible growth zones have been collected from fracture infills in Oman. The minerals growth zones and sectors are recognized via cathodoluminescence microscopy and the trace element content of the different zones in several sectors is estimated via electron microprobe. These different sectors are then sampled by a micro-drill following single growth zones and analyzed for their oxygen and carbon isotopic compositions. The approach highlighted above allows for recognition of the presence of sector zoning, but does not constrain the type of mechanism(s) leading to the observed isotopic fractionation. To gain further insight, we turn to clumped isotopes (multiply substituted isotopologues) which are molecules with distinct chemical and physical properties. This should theoretically lead to distinctive fractionations. Clumped isotopes have been used recently to measure the temperature of precipitation of carbonate minerals. If each of the crystalline phases of a given crystal were precipitated under thermodynamic equilibrium, one would expect a constant clumped isotope value between sectors. However, we intend to use clumped isotopes as a discriminative geochemical tool to check if differences in the Δ47 values between sectors exist. If this was the case, isotopologues could provide new insights on sector zoning and would give an extra dimension to the quest for the different factors resulting in these types of isotopic zonations. Iain Andrew MacDonald Imperial College, London, UK The analysis of stable carbon and oxygen isotope composition is one of the most commonly used techniques in stratigraphic and diagenetic research of carbonate rocks. The wide-spread use and easy access of this long-established method has the side effect that little attention is paid to fundamental calibrations. Dolomite is often measured against a calcite standard (NBS19), and the acid fractionation factor used to calibrate is based on the one for calcite. To date, no reference material exists for dolomite. In this study, which is part of dolomite research in the Qatar Carbonates and Carbon Storage Research Centre project, we focus on two main goals. First, we characterize a current standard of dolomite used for major and minor elemental geochemistry, and assess its suitability as a new dolomite standard for δ18O and δ 13C. Second, we attempt to better constrain the acid fractionation factor for dolomite and assess the influence of different dolomite types on this fractionation factor. As only two thirds of the total oxygen in the carbonate is released in the form of CO2 during acid reaction, a fractionation between the reacting carbonate and the resulting gas will occur. A recent study improved on the acid fractionation factors for calcite and aragonite. Often, the acid fractionation factor for dolomite is used to calculate δ18O and δ 13C from the values obtained by calibration with the calcite standard. Only two studies (from the 1980’s) have attempted to constrain the acid fractionation factor for dolomite, of which only one did experiments not only at 25ºC, but also at 50 and 100ºC. The dataset of the latter experiment is, however, very limited and contains only two dolomite samples. We aim at improving the constraints on the acid fractionation factor of dolomite by reacting a wide range of different types of dolomite at a wide range of acid temperature, and compare this to the absolute isotopic composition of the samples measured on a fluorination line. Combining compositional, stable isotopes and clumped isotopes information could ultimately help to reveal the secrets of sector zoning. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 108 | 109 EEP23 Fracture-related diagenesis in the carbonate carapace of a salt dome, Jebel Madar, Oman Author Institution Fracture-related diagenesis in the carbonate carapace of a salt dome, Jebel Madar, Oman (CONT’) Iain Andrew MacDonald Imperial College, London, UK This study, carried out in the Qatar Carbonates and Carbon Storage Research Centre (QCCSRC) at Imperial College focuses on the interplay between fractures, diagenetic fluid flow and precipitation of diagenetic minerals in an exposed carbonate carapace of a salt dome in Oman. Understanding faultrelated mineralization and the differences between diagenesis in the fractures and fracture walls compared to diagenesis in the rock matrix will help prediction of the reservoir quality of such fractured carapaces in the subsurface. The research questions addressed here are a) what controls the timing, distribution and geometry of fractures in the carapace of a salt dome?, and b) what controls the timing of the precipitation of minerals in the fracture network? To answer these questions, a dual approach combining structural geology with carbonate diagenesis is being applied. The origin of the fluids and their role in fracturing and diagenesis is being investigated by means of geochemistry and petrography and the processes of fracturing, fluid flow and the migration of fluids along pathways will be determined by reconstructing the structural history by a combination of field mapping and seismic interpretation. This dual approach is powerful and can be used to determine the history of fluid flow. Ultimately, the aim is to develop conceptual models linking fracturation and fluid flow during halokinesis with diagenesis. The presence of minerals in fractures indicates that these latter acted as fluid pathways. Initial stable isotope results suggest that the precipitating fluids were hot, with average values of δ 18O of –9.74 ‰ PDB and δ 13C of 1.19 ‰ PDB. Initial results indicate that the regional stress stimulated the local development of salt diapirs which produced local stress fields that totally dominated the timing and pattern of fracturing and fluid migration. Jebel Madar is situated in the southern foothills of the Oman Mountains and is a folded and fractured salt dome carapace comprising Jurassic and Cretaceous limestones. The structural history of the Jebel is currently being reconstructed using fracture analysis of structural data gathered during fieldwork. This will be augmented with the interpretation of seismic profiles. Initial results indicate that the dominant fracture orientations are ~ N-S and NE-SW. Using the crosscutting relationships of the fractures an attempt is being made to establish their chronology. To understand the diagenetic history of the fracture infill, several techniques are being used including petrography, major and trace elemental analysis, fluid inclusion, and stable oxygen and carbon isotope analysis. An important observation made in the fractures of the Jebel Madar is that several generations of calcite cements exist, with crystals ranging in size from several centimetres in the centre of the fracture to compact, millimetre-sized crystals close to the host rock. In addition, in some fractures barite and calcite have been co-precipitated, an observation which, with the aid of fluid inclusion studies, could yield the composition and possible origin of the parent diagenetic fluids. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 111 | 111 110 EEP24 EEP25 Early dolomitization of a Lower Cretaceous shallow water carbonate platform: was microbial activity a major controlling factor? Author Institution Iain Andrew MacDonald A novel meshing and finite element flow model for porous media Authors Imperial College, London, UK Institutions Early dolomitization of carbonate rocks has long been problematic as precipitation experiments at room temperature have shown that dolomite will not be precipitated chemically under Earth surface conditions. To explain the widespread occurrence of early dolomite in the geological record, bacterial mediation of dolomitization has been proposed. The strongest evidence comes from modern hypersaline environments where dolomitization was shown to take place under anoxic conditions. In this study, part of the Qatar Carbonates and Carbon Storage Research Center (QCCSRC), we investigate whether microbial mediation of early dolomitization took place on the Barremian-Berriasian carbonate platform of the Jurf Formation of Southern Oman. The sediments are characterized by a finely crystalline, poorly ordered dolomite present in various proportions. The amount of dolomite seems to be controlled by facies with tidal flats and algal/microbial facies being totally dolomitized and restricted lagoonal facies being only partially dolomitized. Results indicate that the dolomite is penecontemporaneous to sedimentation and that the dolomitizing fluids are low temperature seawater formed in an evaporative lagoon. Thus, reflux mechanisms played a role in the process of dolomitization. One of the major questions of our study is what controls the heterogeneity of the distribution of dolomite on this platform. We hypothesize that bacteria present in tidal flats and algal/microbial mats facies played an important role in controlling dolomitization. Our goal is to highlight the role of biomineralization in controlling the early diagenesis of the Jurf Formation. To test this we will use a multi-proxy approach using mineralogy, trace elements, stable and clumped isotopes, and SEM analysis, in an integrated field, petrographic and geochemical study of a Barremian-Berriasian carbonate platform exposed in the HaushiHuqf area. A bed-by-bed sampling was done for two 15-meter thick outcrop sections separated by one kilometer. Initial results highlight the importance of considering the presence of microbial activity to build more accurate dolomitization models and in assessing the lateral heterogeneity of dolomite bodies. Tara Catherine LaForce, Jefferson Gomes, Ahmed El Sheikh, Matthew Jackson, Murtaza Gulamali, Jon Saunders, Ahmed Abushaikha, Matthew Piggot Imperial College, London, UK Qatar Science Leadership Program, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar This work presents a new fully-unstructured meshing scheme for generating simulation meshes, coupled with a novel simulation method for fluid flow models in porous media. We use unstructured tetrahedral meshing algorithms to generate meshes that rigorously adhere to structural and depositional heterogeneity in geological reservoir models at multiple scales. Geological heterogeneity is represented using numerous surfaces, in contrast with traditional pixel- or grid-based methods. This approach allows the generation of meshes which capture heterogeneity more efficiently and accurately than structured or partiallystructured grids. The flow simulations are performed using a new hybrid discontinuous Galerkin/ control volume based method which combines continuous pressure and discontinuous velocities. Our approach rigorously enforces material balance equations while ensuring crucial scalar fields such as pressure and saturation remain positive and bounded. This research has direct application to aquifer flow systems. We report the results of single-phase flow simulations on unstructured meshes for complex geological systems. These simulations accurately model the spread of groundwater contaminants such as methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) or metals such as arsenic that behave as tracers in aquifers. Initially, simulations are run on simple anisotropic geological systems for two-dimensional flow to benchmark against analytical solutions and validate the accuracy of the simulator for simple flow problems. Next, simulations for tracer flow are performed on 3D channelized and fractured reservoir systems to demonstrate the robustness and accuracy of the new grids and simulator in complex reservoir geology. We present numerical simulations of single-phase flow for a variety of geological systems of increasing complexity, culminating in systems which would be impossible to mesh and solve with structured meshes. This is also a first step towards a more complex multi-phase and multi-component implementation of the novel methods for flow through porous media. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 113 | 113 112 EEP26 EEP27 First evidence of scavenging behavior in the herbivorous lizard Authors Institutions Aurora Castilla, Renee Richer, Anthony Herrel, April Ann Torres Conkey John Tribuna, Mohammed Al Thani, Rita Chan Forest Technology Centre of Catalonia, Solsona, Spain National Museum of Natural Sciences, Madrid, Spain Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Museum national D’Histoire naturelle, France Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Qatar Veterinary Center, Doha, Qatar Optimal foraging theory predicts flexibility in feeding behaviour which enables species to survive in harsh environments where food resources may be scarce and unpredictable in space and time. In this study we explored the hypothesis that the lizard Uromastyx aegyptia microlepis, a species living in dry desert areas may behave as an omnivore under conditions of limited food availability. To do so, we examined the diet of this species based on 294 faecal pellets collected in the field. This species has been traditionally considered as a strict herbivore. However, our study based on a population in the Qatar desert provides the first evidence of scavenging behaviour for Uromastyx. We found remains of mammals, reptiles, birds and insects in their faecal pellets. We also found significant differences between our study zones in the type of food consumed by lizards. This highlights the importance of environmental conditions and human activity on lizard behaviour. The consumption of vertebrate carcases was only detected in the study area located near the main road, suggesting that scavengers may benefit from the availability of dead animals along roads that result from collisions with vehicles. The consumption of barley by lizards was observed only in the study area near a camel farm, suggesting that lizards can also benefit from the food provided by farmers to livestock. Our findings of scavenging behaviour have important implications for the application of management actions, such as the provisioning of carcases near the lizard colonies. That may help preserving the species in situations of extreme food scarcity under the threat of global warming. Lizards near farms can also benefit from extra food of human origin. Because the current decrease in, and loss of biodiversity is a real threat, the identification of different tools that may help to reduce the rate of biodiversity loss is crucial. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations Numerical analysis of three-dimensional sloshing with random excitations Author Institution Gang Xu Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Liquefied natural gas (LNG) carriers have played, and will continue to play, a key role in ocean gas transportation with the increasing demand for energy. Safe operation of LNG carriers requires knowledge of global and local pressures imposed by the sloshing liquid. As LNG carriers are required to operate in different environmental condition, safety is the primary consideration in such operations. LNG carriers are subjected to often significant sloshing loads during their operational life. As it moves across the ocean, the motion of the LNG carriers causes the liquid in the containers to slosh. Liquid sloshing may cause large internal stresses and deformation in the walls of containers, particularly when the external forcing frequencies of the ship are close to the natural sloshing frequencies. This effect is sometimes critical in ship design. A three-dimensional (3D) sloshing problem is analyzed by the linear wave velocity potential theory based on the boundary element method (BEM). When the rectangular tank is undergoing one-dimensional motion, the calculated results are found to be in very good agreement with other published data that assess the accuracy and applicability of the method. Extensive calculation has been made for the tank in two-dimensional (2D) motion. Then random sloshing problem, sloshing in a 3D rectangular container, is further simulated and discussed. In this case, the container filled with liquid is subjected to specified random horizontal oscillations. Both wave elevation and hydrodynamic force are obtained. The spectra of random waves and forces have also been investigated and results are compared between the analytical solutions. 115 | 115 114 EEP28 EEP29 Up-stream smart metering pilot Authors Institution Mohamed Houche, Adrien Tessier, Younes Deffous, Jean Francois Authier TOTAL E&P Qatar, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Total E&P Qatar seeks to constantly improve its operations performances. These performances are associated with such indicators as health, safety & environment (HSE) performance, oil production, water management, production costs and energy efficiency. A key tool for reaching this goal is the enhancement of data monitoring and management technology. The smart metering pilot project is run at Total Research Centre - Qatar (TRC-Q) at Qatar Science and Technology Park in close cooperation with Total E&P Qatar Operations and TOTAL Research in France. At TRC-Q, we are testing a game-changing technology based on data validation and reconciliation (DVR). We integrate real-time measurements and virtual metering in an online monitoring system on our production platforms. The originality compared to equivalent systems is the use of the DVR approach, which consists of using a statistical model to manage uncertainties associated with each measured parameter and of quantifying error propagation. The DVR process allows an automatic real-time correction of both measurements and model parameters, on the basis of their allocated uncertainty and thanks to the information redundancy. Consequently, the resulting output data is more consistent with the available data and associated with a reduced uncertainty. So, for the DVR to be effective we seek to increase the data redundancy and provide high-quality modelling of physical and thermodynamic phenomena occurring over the whole production process. The achievement so far is a pilot hourly metering system based on online measurements. These measurements and modelling parameters are automatically linked on the basis of their redundancy and the Operations Department is provided with a customised report containing the corrected parameters and their associated uncertainties. We also keep looking for new relevant information to incorporate into the system and for improvement in the quality of the mathematical model associated with each equipment (pumps, flow meters, etc.) model in order to improve the reliability of the output. The results that will be presented cover the initial promising results of the pilot for the virtual metering of oil, water and gas production and the associated uncertainty quantification. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations High sea temperatures cause the death of stony corals Author Institution Mehsin Abdulla Al Ansi Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Stony corals are composed of limestone structures formed by the deposits of living organisms. These are tiny animals (polyps) that live in a symbiotic relation with algae. The algae produce the food energy needed by the polyps by photosynthesis. The coral is as such a colony. Numerous colonies on shallow waters where sunrays can reach them form a coral reef. Coral reefs can be extensive, such as the Great Barrier Reef, or can form localized reefs as in Qatar. Coral reefs harbor numerous organisms including sponges, crabs, sea urchins, brittle stars and fish, and exist where environmental conditions are optimal for their flourishing, such as Southeast Asia. Malaysia is reputed as one of the best areas, where 350 coral species are known to occur. Sea urchins and some fish are ferocious feeders on coral. Extensive feeding may cause the death and bleaching of stony corals. Climate change, in particular high sea temperature, can destroy the coral reef and excessive rains with fresh water seeping to intertidal coral reefs will also cause coral bleaching. Qatar has less than 20 species of stony coral and these are localized in only a few areas. Coastline development, including construction in the sea, is one major cause of loss of natural reefs. Aggressive fishing whether by harpoons or metal traps that are later left behind, destroy the reef. However, the recent bleaching of corals during the last decade and at present, is attributed to two factors: climate change with a rise in sea temperature (1989, 2002, 2010) and oil spills (from the Second Gulf War). Optimum growth temperature for corals is between 20oC to 23oC. In June 2010, the sea temperature recorded was 37.8oC and due to this coral bleaching was observed in local reefs and as well as the death of some fish living in the reef. Bleaching was recorded in 2010 at Halul Island, Ras Rakan, Khereis, Um Alushran and Sherahou. 117 | 117 116 EEP30 EEP31 Population density of cockroach species and magnitude of their infestation in Jeddah Province, Saudi Arabia Authors Institution Elsiddig Mohamed Noureldin, Hassan Farrag General Directorate of Municipal Health, Ministry of Municipality & Urban PLanning, Doha, Qatar The results of a cockroach survey in the 14 sub-municipalities of Jeddah province revealed that a total of 3551 cockroaches were caught by 491 of 1433 traps (36.5%), from 128 of 168 houses (76.2%). Overall, relative density ranged from 8.1 (in Obhour sub-municipality) to 43.2 (in Alaziziah sub-municipality) with an average of 21.1 cockroaches per house. It has been noticed that the population density of the cockroaches is high in the central and southern parts of the province where the sanitation and standard of living are poor. 76.4% of the cockroaches were caught in the kitchens (2712), 15.1% in rooms (537) and 8.5% in the bathrooms (302). Amongst those caught in the kitchens, the stove was found to be the most attractive habitat for the cockroaches (38.2%) followed by the fridge (16.5%), then under the sink (10.2%), in the area of the trash bin (8.1%) and finally under cabinets (3.4%). For those cockroaches caught in the bathrooms, 5.2 % (185) of them were caught under or near washing machines and 3.3 % (117) were under or near the toilet. Rodent control strategy in animal farms (izzab) in Qatar Authors Institution Elsiddig Mohamed Noureldin, Hassan Farrag General Directorate of Municipal Health, Ministry of Municipality & Urban PLanning, Doha, Qatar The aim of this study is to develop a control program for rodents in animal farms (izzab) in Qatar. The preliminary baseline survey for rodent-infested izzab revealed that 1506 izzab out of 1814 were infested (83%). The overall percentage reduction in the rodent-infested izzab after 6 months of the control programme (June to December 2009) was 77%. Towards the end of the control programme, a special strategy was adopted to control rodents in 327 izzab in which rodents activity was still observed. A 75% reduction was attained in these izzab at the end of the control programme. The overall reduction in the infested izzab was 94% at the end of the control programme. The most predominant rodent species found in izzab is the Norway rat Rattus norvegicus, making burrows inside and outside Izzab buildings. Less incidences were noted for the House mouse Mus musculus associated with izzab buildings. Surveys conducted in eight property types in the Jeddah province revealed that 1052 cockroaches were caught by 98 of 120 traps (81.7%). Overall, relative density ranged from 2.9 (in hotels) to 28.1 (in restaurants) with an average of 8.8 cockroaches per property. All the restaurants (100%) and cafeterias (100%) were found infested by cockroaches, while 93.3% of the hospitals, 86.7% of the hotels, 80% of the groceries 73.3% of the butcheries, 66.7% of the vegetable and fruit shops and 53.3% of the bakeries were found to be infested by cockroaches. Restaurants had the highest infestation level (40% of the total number of cockroaches trapped in all properties), while hotels had the lowest infestation level (4.1% of the total number of cockroaches trapped in all properties). Four species of cockroaches were identified from the 14 sub-municipalities, as well as from the eight property types in Jeddah province, namely: the German cockroach (Blattella germanica L.), the American cockroach (Periplaneta americana L.), the brown-banded cockroach (Supella longipalpa F.) and the Oriental cockroach (Blatta orientalis L.) belonging to 4 genera. The German cockroach Blattella germanica was found to be the most predominant species with 98.8% occurrence in dwellings, and 97.7% in properties. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations 119 | 119 118 EEP32 EEP33 Integrated APC-controlled SPC monitoring chart for quality improvement Authors Institutions Minjae Park, Jinho Kim, Myong K Jeong, Abdelmagid Hamuda, Khalifa Al Khalifa, Elsayed Elsayed Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, USA There are two widely used process control techniques for the reduction of process output variability. The first technique is automatic process control (APC) that adjusts the process using information about its current level or deviation from a desired target. The APC actions for process adjustments are achieved by the minimum mean square estimate (MMSE) controller or proportional, integral and derivative (PID) controller which minimize the output deviations from the quality target. The MMSE controller is optimal in terms of minimizing mean squared residual errors when the model and its parameters are exactly known. Whereas the PID controller is very efficient and also robust against non-stationarity due to the fact that it can continuously adjust the process whenever the data is auto-correlated. The second technique is statistical process control (SPC) which utilizes control charts. The goal of SPC for improving quality is to monitor and detect process variability, so that the special causes of the process shifting are investigated. While SPC has been successfully used in industry for identifying and eliminating the assignable cause of variations, APC techniques are widely employed in the continuous process industry to reduce common cause variations. For an improved performance of the process for the industry practitioner, both the monitoring and the adjustments of process are needed to receive the full benefit of each approach. Recently, integration of APC and SPC successfully resulted in the reduction of process output variability and improved process efficiency. In this paper, we integrate SPC and APC for various types of industries including liquefied natural gas (LNG) processes. By applying both the statistical process control and the advanced process control to a process we can dramatically improve the quality of process output. Both statistical process control and automatic process control techniques have been widely applied in industry to detect causes of variability by monitoring the key variables in the process. We investigate both techniques, their integration and methods for shift detection in the process for the monitoring of a process. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations Improving mechanical and thermal properties of AZ31 magnesium alloy through simultaneous addition of aluminum and nano-alumina Authors Institutions Md Ershadul Alam, S Han, QB Nguyen, M Gupta, AMS Hamouda Qatar University, Doha, Qatar National University of Singapore, Singapore In the present study, AZ51 magnesium alloy and AZ51-Al2O3 magnesium nanocomposite was successfully synthesized incorporating elemental aluminium (Al) (2 wt.%) and simultaneous addition of Al (2 wt.%) and nano-sized Al2O3 (1.5 vol.%) into pure AZ31 alloy, respectively, using an innovative disintegrated melt deposition technique followed by hot extrusion. Microstructural characterization studies revealed uniaxial grain size, reasonably uniform distribution of particulates/intermetallics in the matrix and minimal porosity. Thermal properties characterization revealed that addition of both Al and nano-sized Al2O3 reduced the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of monolithic AZ31. The presence of both Al2O3 nanoparticulates and aluminum also assisted in improving overall mechanical properties of AZ31 magnesium alloy. Microhardness can be increased by about 67% with the addition of Al and Al2O3 into pure AZ31 when compared to pure AZ31 alloy. Newly developed AZ51-Al2O3 nano-composite also exhibited higher modulus of elasticity (80%), 0.2% yield strength (17%), ultimate tensile strength (14%), ductility (26%) and work of fracture (46%) when compared to a monolithic AZ31 alloy. The results suggest that both the new alloy and composite have significant potential in diverse engineering applications when compared to the AZ31 alloy and can be used by weight critical aerospace and automotive industries to save energy. 121 | 121 120 EEP34 EEP35 Holocene sabkha and coastal systems of Qatar: models for the interpretation of ancient Arabian plate carbonate evaporite reservoirs and coastal management A new risk-based approach for alarm system design Authors Author Institution Jeremy Jameson ExxonMobil Research, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Facies tracts, sediment types, stacking patterns, and diagenetic histories of Holocene sabkhas of Qatar provide compelling analogues for the interpretation of ancient, carbonate-evaporite sequences of the Arabian Plate. The use of modern analogues to aid in the interpretation of geological and engineering data is well established in the petroleum industry. Comparison of sabkhas from different physiographic regions of Qatar that formed during the latest Holocene cycle of sea level rises reveals new insights into the characterization of ancient rocks. These observations provide the basis for a revision of the definition of facies tracts described in the geological literature as sabkhas. This study reports on a country-wide study of the sedimentation history of coastal areas, based on extensive field mapping, geotechnical studies, age dating and geochemistry. Data is integrated in ArcGIS, a relational database. The results are equally valuable in conservation, environmental and geotechnical studies and archaeological research and teaching. Coastal areas of Qatar are marked by extremely low relief, with the result that high-frequency oscillations in sea level create offsets in facies tracts. Age dating reveals that inland sabkhas are relicts of a high stand in sea level approximately 4000-6000 years ago. These areas are presently subaerially exposed and eroding. Extensive pedogenic modification of marine sediments (burrowing, infiltration, micrite precipitation) creates characteristic textures. Groundwater modification includes extensive precipitation of CaSO4, halite, lime micrite, and dolomite. The variability observed in Qatar sabkhas alters the way in which a common modern analogue is applied to the interpretation of subsurface data. These observations warrant revision of the definition of a sabkha. We propose that sabkhas are normal, coastal sediments, modified by near-surface groundwater saturated in CaSO4. A sabkha is a diagenetic overprint, not a depositional system. This proposed model helps aid in recognition of ancient sabkhas. Energy & Environment | Poster Presentations Institutions Salim Ahmed, Faisal Khan Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, Canada Increasing demands for higher efficiency and strict environmental regulations for process industries have led to the development of sophisticated control technologies and smart sensors. However, improved control mechanisms and better sensors have not been able to eliminate abnormal operating conditions. As a result operator interventions are routinely required. Alarms are at the forefront of the safety system in a plant to indicate the need for such interventions. The main purposes of an alarm is to warn of a possible critical condition and to seek the attention of an operator and thus to prevent, control and mitigate the effects of an abnormal situation. However, on many occasions, alarms have been reported as a contributor to abnormal events and the single variable based alarm system design has been identified as a main reason for that. In this article, we present a systems approach to design, analyze and prioritize alarms. By a system, we refer to a set of variables within a process. An alarm is activated based on the risk associated with the state of the variables in a system. The objectives are to integrate risk estimation with alarm design and to reduce the number of alarms. First, the process variables are grouped to be represented by a number of systems. Alarms are then assigned to each system instead of individual variables. From the measured value of the variables, the risk associated within the individual system is estimated. Also from the relationships among the variables, future risk associated with each system is evaluated. Finally, the overall risk for a particular system is obtained from the current and predicted risk and comparing the overall risk with a predefined threshold value, a decision regarding alarm activation is taken. Once a set of alarms are activated, they are prioritized based on their severity. Also for the analysis of an alarm, the risk associated with individual variables under a system is analyzed and, finally, proper operator action is suggested to mitigate the abnormal situation. 123 | 123 122 Student Posters EEPS1 Biodiversity of Qatari Bacillus thuringiensis strains and molecular prediction of their biological activities and bioassays: for a safer and clean environment EEPS2 Development and control of homogenous charge compression ignition engines: a preliminary study Authors Authors Institution Asmaa Mohamed Raess, Mariam Al Muraikhi, Roda Al Thani, Samir Jaoua Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Qatar’s soil and environment are sources of beneficial bacterial strains and bacterial resources that should be first of all, identified, isolated, studied, used and valorized. In fact, the Qatari environment should be elective for many microbial genetic resources tolerant to high temperature, drought, salinity and hydrocarbon rich soil. Isolating microbial strains having biotechnological applications would be very beneficial not only for Qatar, but also for the Gulf region and other countries in the world. B. thuringiensis is a Gram-positive bacterium which produces, during sporulation, crystalline inclusions containing one or more deltaendotoxins, that are considered as the best biological insecticides as they are harmless for man and animal and act specifically against a wide variety of pathogenic insects, including pests and disease vectors. In this research project, we studied 31 crystal producing Qatari B. thuringiensis isolates, by the investigation of their plasmid patterns, crystal morphology, deltaendotoxin identification by SDS-PAGE, prediction of gene nature by PCR and insecticidal activities. The crystal morphology comparison showed that 22.5 % were spherical, 32.2 % were amorphous, 38.7 % were pyramidal and 6.4 % were bipyramidal. Based on the isolates plasmid patterns, 11 representative strains of the different classes were deeply studied. We used their molecular ribotyping and bioinformatic tools of sequence and BLAST alignment, to confirm that the studied isolates are B. thuringiensis strains. By SDS-PAGE, we showed that the deltaendotoxins produced by the different strains have different molecular weights. The PCR screening of these strains, using oligonucleotides specific for the genes cry1 and cry4, showed the presence of genes cry1A in two strains and allowed us to predict their potential insecticidal activities against lepidopteran larvae. Moreover, we used a B. thuringiensis israelensis in bioassay experiments against local mosquito Culex pipiens larveae and demonstrated the efficacy of such biological bioinsecticides on Qatari mosquitoes. These results are very encouraging and favour the use of B. thuringiensis local strain bioinsecticides for environmentally safe integrated pest management in this region. Energy & Environment | Student Posters Institutions Marwa Walid Fathy Abdelgawad, Reza Tafreshi, Jiafeng Sun, Reza Langari, Timothy Jacobs Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA For many years, researchers have been trying to develop internal combustion engines with increased efficiency, while striving to satisfy stricter environmental regulations that limit the constituents of harmful emissions being produced. Homogenous charge compression ignition (HCCI) engines have provided a window of opportunity to make this happen since they incorporate the most ‘attractive’ features from both the standard spark-ignition engine and the compression-ignition engine, resulting in higher efficiencies and cleaner emissions. The main challenge of HCCI combustion is that it is triggered by the auto-ignition of the air-fuel mixture during compression, therefore, making it difficult to control while ensuring maximum efficiency. This research project aims to apply HCCI technology in an attempt to improve the performance of stationary power generation systems in Qatar by developing a low emission – high efficiency natural gas engine. In this poster, we will demonstrate the experimental setup that has been installed and the control strategy that will be used to control ignition timing. The test bench is made up of a single-cylinder engine with intake and exhaust piping system, as well as sensory equipment. The engine is controlled and monitored by a data acquisition (DAQ) computer system. We will show that initial performance data, obtained under full load and at different engine speeds, are in accordance with the performance data from the manufacturer. In addition, a mathematical pressure model has been developed and compared with experimental data, which will be used as the primary input for the feedback control mechanism. We will explain the process in which engine control algorithms use instantaneous cylinder pressure measurements and appropriate thermodynamic relationships to determine the rate of heat release (ROHR). Measured ROHR will then be compared with acceptable rates and controlled using exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and intake and exhaust manifold pressures and temperatures. Finally, further work to implement HCCI natural gas fueled engine will be discussed. 125 | 125 124 EEPS3 EEPS4 Paper recycling at Qatar University Authors Institution Ahmed Hiathem Ghazi, Zakaria Azhar Othman, Heba Dawoud Dawoud, Nada Ashqar Aloraidi, Maha Rashid Saeed Alokka, Ayat Salim Nazar, Maha Rashid Al Matwi, Nadya Abdulmonim, Omar Liqaa Maki Qatar University, Doha, Qatar In 2007, 2,500,000 tons of waste in Qatar was disposed of on the Umalafai landfill, of which 700,000 tons constituted domestic waste, However, only 4600 tons of this waste was discharged to be recycled, and of this 149 tons was paper waste. This high amount of waste paper in 2007, when the population of Qatar was 907,229 means that there should be even more waste as the population reached 1,900,000 in 2009. An immediate response should be taken, and the present research team believes that recycling is the best and easiest solution for this problem. In order to change people’s habits, education and awareness programs are needed. A good place to start such a campaign is at educational institutions, such as Qatar University. Qatar University, with a student population that exceeds 8000, makes a significant contribution to the development of society in Qatar, and plays an important role in leading the public and technology in sustainable protection of the environment. The project made the students of Qatar aware of the importance of waste paper recycling, with the long term goal of transmitting this awareness to society as a whole. In this project we started paper recycling technology at Qatar University, which will be the starting point in educating society and making Qatar University a leading institution in recycling technologies. Paper recycling equipment will be purchased and installed at the newly built Research Center at Qatar University. The faculty and students of the project are collaborating with the local paper recycling company, Al-Suwaidi Paper Factory, in sharing technical information and building a long lasting collaboration. The project helped the students understand the life cycle of paper and conducted a survey to gauge people’s attitude towards paper recycling in Qatar. At the moment the students are constructing the first recycling plant in a teaching institution, in which the students will be able to synthesise various products made by recycled paper pulp. Attempts are made to develop pulp based composite material products and investigate their mechanical properties. The work will be accompanied by a public awareness campaign for paper recycling. Energy & Environment | Student Posters Numerical methods in modeling and simulating fluid flow in heterogeneous and naturally fractured hydrocarbon reservoirs Authors Institutions Ahmed Abushaikha, Tara Catherine LaForce, Martin Blunt, Ahmed El Sheikh, Jefferson Gomes, Chris Pain Qatar Science Leadership Program, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar Imperial College, London, UK More than 50% of proven hydrocarbon reserves are in naturally fractured reservoirs (NFR) and fractures are present in most carbonate reservoirs. The heterogeneity of NFR material properties; permeability and porosity, is of large scale thus presenting a challenge in modeling fluid flow and recovery mechanisms numerically. For a large class of fractured reservoirs, especially for multiphase production mechanisms, the dual-medium approach, using a transfer function (TF) to represent the exchange term between fracture (flowing domain) and matrix (stagnant domain) is a good tool. However, the complexity of modeling the geometry of natural fractures and the advances in finite element method and computing power are calling for newer developments and tools to better model and simulate the unique two-timescale flow-system of these reservoirs. The evaluation of various numerical methods in modeling fluid flow in highly heterogeneous NFR, such as finite element, finite volume, and finite difference, is the main goal of this research. This will be done through writing and benchmarking a simulator for each method and testing its capabilities in capturing the correct recovery mechanisms of NFR while maintaining accuracy in the numerical calculations. In this poster, we first present a literature review followed by an overview of the main equations used in fluid flow in reservoir engineering and their derivation and algebraic approximations in finite difference and finite element methods. After that, we present the results of the first 2D simulator written, using finite element finite volume (FEFV) and our preliminarily results in one and two phase (water-oil incompressible fluid) simple and heterogeneous models. Finally, a future plan of this research is discussed. 127 | 127 126 EEPS5 Genetic diversity of date palm in Qatar Authors Institution Sara Hani Al Hadidi, Hala Nazeh Al Agha, Ahmed Talaat Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Date palm is the most important fruit tree in Qatar. Recently developed techniques, based on DNA markers, offer new tools for genetic analysis. The objectives of the present study are to analyze the genetic diversity among 15 different cultivars of date palm at the experimental farm of Qatar University using ISSR and SSR markers, and find out the genetic similarity and/or diversity among the well known date palm cultivars in the state of Qatar. DNAs were extracted from the young fresh leaves. A total of 34 primers of simple sequence repeat (SSR) and inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) were tested for their ability to generate banding patterns in 15 date palm genotypes. However, 10 SSR and 18 ISSR primers successfully produced clear bands in all of the studied genotypes. Similarity coefficient matrix was computed to cluster the data and to draw precise relationships among the fifteen studied Qatari date palm genotypes. All date palm genotypes are inter-related in spite of their agronomic divergence. Genetic similarities and dendrogram could re-group the Qatari date palm cultivars in a way that one cultivar (Abu Main) was excluded from the group due to its dissimilarity with the other cultivars. Two cultivars (Barhee and Sultana) were much closer and could be considered as coming from one origin. The polymorphic patterns obtained suggested that the ISSR and SSR procedures constitute alternative approaches that are suitable to examine the date palm’s genetic diversity at the DNA level. Energy & Environment | Student Posters 129 | 129 128 Computing Oral Presentations Poster Presentations Student Posters Oral Presentations CSO1 CameraNets: coverage and data management problems in distributed smart camera networks Author Institution Nael Abu-Ghazaleh Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Distributed Smart Camera systems (DSCs) consist of a (possibly large) number of cameras that collaborate on a monitoring task. DSCs have a wide range of applications such as surveillance, intelligent traffic systems, environmental monitoring, industrial safety and law enforcement. DSCs automatically control what to monitor and how to act on the collected video. For example, cameras monitoring traffic may change their orientation to track moving traffic and alert responders if an accident occurs. DSCs differ from conventional multi-camera surveillance systems in that they eliminate the need for a human to control them and to interpret the video. Free of this limitation, DSCs can scale to much higher scales, while improving monitoring effectiveness. However, a number of difficult challenges must be solved before DSCs can realize this potential. In this paper, we discuss our results and activities within a QNRF-funded project looking at two general challenges facing DSCs: 1 - Coverage control: how to control cameras with Pan-Tilt-Zoom capability to track a group of targets and/or areas of interest. We frame the problem as an optimization problem to maximize the value of the covered targets. We show that the problem is NP-hard and develop a family of heuristic approaches with near optimal behavior that do not require central coordination. 2 - Data Management: as the cameras collect their video, they need to relay it for real-time monitoring using a bandwidth constrained network, or store it for later analysis. Cameras can coordinate to eliminate redundancies and to infer the importance of the observed video. Moreover, storage architectures are needed to effectively store the video data and to allow efficient indexing and retrieval. We report our initial solutions and performance evaluation studies in this area, which were obtained by a mixture of simulation and using an experimental multicamera test bed that we have started to deploy. Computing | Oral Presentations CSO2 An integrated platform for intelligent road traffic monitoring and travel information delivery Author Institution Fethi Filali Qatar University Wireless Innovations Center, QSTP, Doha, Qatar Currently in Qatar, and to the best of our knowledge in most Gulf state countries, there is a lack of reliable information about traffic conditions and congestion. This information, especially if ubiquitous and near real time, is highly desirable to support consumer, enterprise, and government centric applications. Since no universal solution exists, a great deal of innovative research is needed. This research work aims at designing and developing an integrated intelligent platform for real time monitoring of road traffic, based on advanced data processing and filtering algorithms. Four sophisticated blocks compose the platform. The Data Sources block is responsible for generating raw traffic data, for example from road sensors. The Platform Core block is where the Platform Engine and Platform Services are implemented. It processes raw traffic data and translates it into meaningful real time information, which is then delivered to user applications in different formats and via various fixed and mobile end‐user devices either in real time or playback mode. The User Applications block contains the set of applications interacting with the platform. Finally, the whole platform is configured and controlled via the fourth block: the Platform Administration and Management block. Given the importance and complexity of the addressed problem, a great deal of research and development effort has been conducted to create a robust, efficient, and rich intelligence platform supporting a large number of services and applications. The research efforts focused on geographical data preparation, communication protocols with remote data sources, speed and travel‐time estimation and prediction, raw data filtering and fusion, map matching, and shortest and fastest routes computation. It is well accepted that reducing mobility time means reducing people stress and enhancing produced results qualitatively and quantitatively. We believe that the platform’s services will contribute in reaching this objective in Qatar and in the region. 133 | 133 132 CSO3 CSO4 Interference-aware protocol design in wireless networks Author Institution Saquib Razak Design and analysis of new generation protocols for triple-play networks Authors Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Institutions Wireless networking is enabling a new class of applications providing users with access to information and communication anytime and anywhere. The success of these applications and services, accessible through smart phones and other wireless devices, is placing tremendous pressure on the limited wireless bandwidth. To sustain this growth, it is critical to develop protocols that can efficiently manage the available bandwidth. One of the major complications in developing these wireless protocols is the complex effect of interference between different users, which often plays a defining role on the overall performance of wireless networks. Thus, the goal of this project is to characterize the interference behavior and use it to develop a new generation of protocols that focus on minimizing destructive interference. We focus on Carrier Sense Multiple Access (CSMA), the most commonly used algorithm in wireless networks at the core of widespread standards such as IEEE 802.11 (WiFi). These protocols are unable to effectively arbitrate the medium in multi-hop wireless networks, causing destructive interactions such as hidden and exposed terminals, leading to collisions, poor performance and unfairness. This project first characterizes the impact of interference in detail, showing that there are only a few modes of interference that account for the different interactions that occur when multiple users compete for use of the medium. We then use this insight to develop novel protocols using two main strategies: (1) remove destructive interference whenever possible; and (2) find alternative routes around destructive interference areas when removing interference is not an option. For the first part our methodology controls transceiver parameters like transmit power, receiver threshold and receiver sensitivity to convert the destructive interactions into constructive ones. Our results show that this technique reduces the overall power consumed in a network allowing for better channel reuse and hence efficient capacity usage. For the latter part, we are designing a routing protocol that routes traffic around areas of potentially high interference. A comparison of our protocol with existing shortest-path routing protocol shows that our metric substantially improves the performance and efficiency of the network. Computing | Oral Presentations Muna Dhia Sheet Khattab, Zhiyuan Yin, Hossam Hammady, Hussein Alnuweiri, Hasari Celebi, Narasimha Reddy Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)’s proven stability and scalability has made it the most widely used transport layer protocol for more than twenty years. However, as multimedia applications become ubiquitous over the internet, TCP has been found incapable of meeting their requirements, which place more emphasis on timeliness than on reliability. Because of that, many multimedia applications turn to UDP as their underlying transport protocol. However, the majority of video on demand and live broadcast applications predominantly use TCP over UDP (User Datagram Protocol), due to UDP’s unresponsiveness to network conditions and problems with firewalls and NATs (Network Address Translations). TCP’s poor performance in delivering real-time media is due to the following reasons: 1) TCP’s emphasis on reliable in-order delivery causes frame jitter that interrupt media play out. 2) TCP’s coarse-grained retransmission timeout (RTO) and its back-off mechanism is detrimental to any real-time based application. In this study, we propose a new variant of TCP with an early retransmission scheme as an enhancement to make it more suitable for streaming media. We call this new protocol TCP-ER. We performed extensive NS-2 simulations to show that: 1) the early retransmission scheme can reduce the number of retransmission timeouts in a variety of network environments, which results in a considerable decrease in number of retransmission timeouts and packet delay jitter. 2) Under same network conditions, constrained streaming over TCP-ER has a considerably lower number of late packets than its normal TCP counterpart. 3) TCP-ER has a higher throughput in severely congested network conditions, whereas it stays relatively fair with typical TCP implementations (specifically TCP-SACK) as congestion gets alleviated. 135 | 135 134 CSO5 CSO6 Qloud: a cloud computing infrastructure for scientific applications Authors Institutions Sakr Majd, Suhail Rehman, Qutaibah Malluhi, Hussein Alnuweiri, Mazen Zaghir Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Cloud computing is a disruptive technology that is rapidly changing how organizations use and interact with information technology. By transforming computing infrastructure from a product to a service, it offers many benefits, including scalability of resources, flexibility for users in terms of software and hardware needs, increased reliability, decreased downtime, increased hardware utilization and reduced upfront costs and carbon footprint. Academia and research organizations are now actively involved in bringing some of those benefits to high performance and scientific computing. The Qatar Cloud Computing Center – Qloud research initiative brings Carnegie Mellon, Texas A&M, and Qatar University together to explore cloud computing to further research and development of cloud computing in Qatar and exploit it for regionally relevant scientific applications. In partnership with IBM, two pilot cloud systems have been put in place, one on the CMUQ campus in early 2009, and another on the QU campus in 2010. These systems are available for educational and experimental use for researchers, students and faculty in Qatar. Further, an introductory course in cloud computing was held in the spring 2010 semester to equip computer science students with necessary skills to work with this new computing paradigm. The Qloud research focuses on porting scientific applications to the cloud. Large-scale data-intensive applications can reap the benefits of cloud computing and programming models such as MapReduce. However, there is a lack of understanding of the performance implications of executing scientific applications in cloud environments, which is an impediment to increased adoption of cloud computing for these purposes. In our research, we explore the performance and behavior of various classes of scientific applications in a cloud computing environment. Specifically, we are studying the effect of provisioning variation, a variation in the performance of an application caused by the variation of resource allocation in a cloud computing environment. Our initial findings indicate that for certain application types, we observe a fivefold variation in performance between a best-case and worst-case resource mapping in our private cloud environment. This research can help in building new frameworks to support scientific computation on the cloud. Computing | Oral Presentations Designing a new programming language for building secure cloud computing-based applications Authors Institution Thierry Sans, Iliano Cervesato Carnegie Mellon University Qatar, Doha, Qatar In 2009, Carnegie Mellon Qatar, Qatar University, Texas A&M Qatar and IBM launched a joint research project on cloud computing. Cloud computing is a computing paradigm in which the computing resources, the software and the data are made available to the users as a service through the internet. In this paradigm, the software is no longer a standalone application installed on the user’s platform, but resides on one or several servers. For instance, Google Docs is an office suite (word processor, spreadsheet and presentation) that can be used through a web browser. This new kind of application is a radical shift in the way we design, implement and deploy software. In this context, ensuring security becomes critical since a vulnerability in a cloud-based application may exposed data of all users using the service. Yet, developing secure cloud applications is complex because programmers are required to reason about distributed computation and to write code using heterogeneous languages, often not originally designed with distributed computing in mind. Testing is the common way to catch bugs and vulnerabilities as current technologies provide limited support. There are doubts this can scale up to meet the expectations of more sophisticated cloud-based applications. In this project, we have designed a typesafe programming language called “Qwesst”. We used it to express interaction patterns commonly found in distributed applications that go beyond current technologies. This language prevents the programmer from writing unsafe code that can lead to a cross site scripting attack, also called XSS attacks. An XSS attack enables an attacker to inject JavaScript code into a webpage. This is a severe vulnerability that has become the most widespread security breach in web-based applications. In the future, we plan to extend the language with new security features that will allow the programmer to control data dissemination and information flow. 137 | 137 136 CSO7 CSO8 What do drill strings and surgical threads have in common? Author Institution Annie Ruimi Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Drill strings used in oil and gas operations are long circular columns approximately 3 to 5km long, 30 to 50cm in diameter while surgical threads are typically 75cm to 1m long and 0.5 to 1mm thick, depending on the type of surgery, so both share the characteristic of having a diameter to length ratio on the order of 10-3. Drill string operators need to constantly monitor the position of the drilling apparatus as excessive vibrations can lead to sudden equipment failure. Likewise, a surgeon would want to avoid thread tangling, a non-linear and dynamical process particularly detrimental during knot formation. The elementary Euler-Bernoulli, or even the Timoshenko beam theory, are insufficient to predict the correct configuration of the structures which will coil, i.e. twist around their own axis in addition to bend and twist. Instead, we will use finite element computational tools using the lesser-known Cosserat theory of rods. In the case of surgical thread, the goal of our research program is the development of software that will be used by medical school students to practice the task of surgical suturing so the program’s immediate benefits are pedagogical and also in line with the Qatar Sidra project to offer state of the art medical training. In the case of drill string dynamics, the objective of our program is to understand the interactions between the vibration sources and drill string-BHA (bottom hole assembly) responses and to offer “real time” assistance to drilling rig operators by developing advanced dynamics simulation software. With such high associated operational costs, the anticipated benefits of the program are clearly economical. By engaging simultaneously in these two research programs, we hope to demonstrate that the Cosserat rod theory is a powerful tool that can be used to solve a wide range of applications that may otherwise appear very distant. Qatar simulator development programme Author Institution Max-Antoine Jean Renault Williams Technology Center, QSTP, Doha, Qatar It is official. The automotive world is ramping up capabilities in simulation. Applications range from motorsports (optimization of vehicle dynamics, race track familiarization, car engineering), to driver-assistance systems (development of vehicle dynamics controllers), utilizing software in the loop (SIL) and hardware in the loop (HIL) validation in e.g. electronic control units (ECU). Another major emerging market is driver safety and training, e.g. emergency services and driver training centers. Using HIL, simulation helps develop increasingly complex embedded systems, connect them to car hardware, test and ensure correct functionality and integration. Time-consuming manual testing has been replaced by automated simulation. When done in a pre-production phase, time-to-market and expensive recalls are considerably minimized. Using driver in the loop (DIL), simulation provides a consistent and safe driving environment for drivers to gain or improve skills. In motorsports this saves track-time related costs and helps gain a competitive advantage; in the commercial world drivers become more successful dealing with hazards, while interacting with in-car functions, thus minimizing the risk of accidents or fatal injuries. The Williams Technology Centre is engaged in developing driving simulators in the three key areas of motorsports, entertainment and road safety & training. We benefit from years of F1 simulator experience, with excellent understanding of vehicle dynamics and driver training needs. Our capabilities in automotive SIL, HIL and DIL are extensive. By combining in-house developed software, real-car hardware, and outstanding audio & visual graphics, our simulators are incredibly high-fidelity. Current efforts concentrate on developing a DIL motorsport simulator incorporating real electro-mechanical car parts, and running on advanced software. Following extensive research into the human sensory system, we are pioneering an innovative visual environment to enhance driver immersion. Research & development endeavors from 2011 will focus on further advancing high-fidelity control loading steering systems, growing our HIL capability, and sophisticated motion-cueing development. Artificial intelligence and scenarios will equally be at the heart of further expansion. Computing | Oral Presentations 139 | 139 138 CSO9 CSO10 Named entity recognition from Arabic Wikipedia Authors Institutions Mohit Behrang, Kemal Oflazer, Noah Smith Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, PA, USA Named Entity Recognition (NER) is the problem of locating mentions to entities such as persons, locations and organizations. The named entity information is helpful for reducing the complexity of monolingual and multilingual processing tasks, such as information extraction, parsing and machine translation. We investigate the Arabic NER problem from the Arabic Wikipedia text. We employ statistical sequence labeling methods for solving the NER task. Previous studies suggest that sequence labeling methods, such as Conditional Random Fields, are the state of the art NER frameworks. The sequence labeling methods require human labeled training data. Most of the Arabic human labeled data for NER belong to the political news domain and the consequent trained models are biased towards the news domain. In contrast, our target test data (Arabic Wikipedia articles) has a very diverse set of topics. The domain mismatch between the train and test data results in poor NER performance. In order to reduce the coverage problem, we present three techniques: (1) we use the Wikipedia network structure to collect additional information about the text. Information such as monolingual and cross-lingual hyperlinks and text formatting lead us to use new features of the Wikipedia text in NER models. Moreover, we use cross-lingual projection to collect named entity information from English Wikipedia. (2) We use a domain adaptation technique to shift the model from the baseline political domain to domains relevant to our test data. Our model adaptation uses a small set of in-house-labeled Arabic Wikipedia articles. (3) We use self-training to port from a fully supervised to a semisupervised learning framework: we collect a large volume of unlabeled Arabic Wikipedia articles to expand the underlying NER domain to new text domains. Our model expansion is gradual and iterative. In each iteration we add a new set of unlabeled articles to the training and use the current model to label and construct a larger model. Our NER evaluations are based on the standard precision and recall metrics. We evaluate our proposed framework in four different text domains of Arabic Wikipedia. Computing | Oral Presentations Exploiting social interactions using opportunistic networks Authors Institution Mtibaa Abderrahmen, Khaled Harras Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Social interaction has drastically evolved over time. Moving away from faceto-face based interactions, telephone networks made the first step towards remote social interaction. The internet, further enhanced with the tremendous increase in lightweight mobile devices, has taken social interaction to new frontiers. Users can already email, chat, call, and video conference with others from around the world without necessarily being attached to any fixed location. The final frontier has been to exploit this technology to completely virtualize social interaction via online social networking services such as facebook, orkut, MySpace, or LinkedIn, etc. These applications create a virtual world where users build social networks of their acquaintances and allow people belonging to these social networks or communities to freely interact regardless of the boundaries of time and location. At this point, we pose a simple question, is this truly the final frontier with respect to social interaction? When people with similar interests or common acquaintances are a short distance from one another, like the same street, train, or mall, these people have no mechanism to identify this potential social interaction. Current research in geolocalization applications running on mobile devices provide some solutions to such problems, however, they face numerous challenges including network coverage, cost, and energy consumption concerns. We ultimately need context aware, adaptive, and agile solutions that can seamlessly extend peoples senses beyond their physical boundaries in order to exploit potentially rewarding social interactions. Our work, targeted towards fulfilling this need, takes advantage of physical context merged with online social relationships to ultimately improve the physical social interaction experience of people. We will discuss how current research thrusts such as delay and disruption tolerant networks (DTNs) and mobile opportunistic networking, can exploit social relationships between people in order to efficiently disseminate messages through such challenged networks. We believe that these types of networks better model and reflect human mobility pattern and limitations, and so are more naturally suited as a platform for tackling the problems mentioned above. 141 | 141 140 CSO11 CSO12 The Qatar Unified Imaging Project (QUIP) Author Institution Moe Tammi Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar VCUQatar was recently granted QNRF funding to spearhead a highly collaborative and distributed project to advance knowledge of Qatar’s history, traditions and culture. The Qatar Unified Imaging Project (QUIP) will identify and map the dispersed collections of Qatar’s primary source materials in Qatar, India, Britain, and Denmark, then distribute selected results of that research from an open-access digital repository. The research team offers expertise in Gulf history, preservation, digitization, information access and education. Our expected outcome is the discovery and documentation of rich resource collections that will be made accessible for the benefit of the community and scholars without causing further deterioration of the original artifacts. QUIP will be an accessible resource to further the understanding of Qatar and the Arabian Gulf in relation to the rest of the world. Research will build on the work of the Qatar National Museum and the Ministry of Culture and expand access to disparate materials collected from or on Qatar, from the 18th to the 20th century. QUIP will produce a mapping of cultural orientation and a founding collection of digitized primary source materials. Using the European data structure and standardized metadata for classification of digital objects, ensures data portability and interoperability. QUIP will be sustained through collaborative partnerships with Qatar’s cultural institutions, integration of the larger community of stakeholders and Qatar’s commitment to UNESCO’s Charter on the Preservation of the Digital Heritage. Effective programming for large distributed ensembles Author Institution Iliano Cervesato Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar. Doha, Qatar Claytronics is a project at Carnegie Mellon University to develop programmable matter – bringing the power of programming to physical matter. A Claytronics system consists of millions of tiny computing units called catoms. Each catom is capable of executing code, sensing and communicating with nearby catoms, and moving around its neighbors subject to the laws of physics. The result is an ensemble of particles which can change their physical properties under program control. Surprisingly, the main challenge to realizing Claytronics is not the underlying hardware, but the programming methodology. Providing effective methods for programming an ensemble of millions of units so that they can reliably, even provably, work together to solve a common task is a significant challenge. We have developed two programming languages, LDP and Meld, with which we could implement some simple, yet useful, behaviors. Each language excelled at some tasks, but not on others. Furthermore, it is unknown whether either language or even their underlying programming styles will scale to large programs. In this work, we investigate the potential of MSR 3, a programming paradigm combining multiset rewriting, logic and process algebra, as an effective basis for programming Claytronics. MSR 3 natively provides support for concurrency, synchronization, non-determinism, non-monotonicity, and atomicity. It has been used with great success in areas as security protocols and biomolecular systems. MSR 3 appears to extend the computing paradigms of both LDP and Meld. Our main objective is to customize MSR 3 for Claytronics, to support a variety of abstraction levels (from modeling the physical environment to programming meta-modules). We believe that this will reap rewards not just for programming Claytronics, but will have a direct impact on understanding how best to program all large ensembles, sensor networks, internet protocol routers, autonomous vehicles, power system management, etc. Computing | Oral Presentations 143 | 143 142 Poster Presentations CSP1 A second-order statistical method for spectrum sensing in correlated shadowing and fading environments Authors Institution Serhan Yarkan, Khaled Qaraqe CSP2 Conceptual approach for multi-level restructuring of categorized documents in a corpus Authors Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA Institutions Spectrum sensing is one of the most important tasks of cognitive radios (CRs) in future wireless systems and of user equipment (UE) in next generation wireless networks (NGWNs). Therefore, deciding whether a specific portion of radio frequency (RF) spectrum is occupied or not is of paramount importance for all sorts of future wireless communications systems. In this study, a spectrum sensing method that employs a second–order statistical approach is proposed for detecting fast fading signals in spatially correlated shadowing environments. Analysis and performance results are presented along with the discussion related to the performance comparison of the energy detection method. Samir Elloumi, Ali Al Jaoua, Fethi Ferjani, Jihad Mohamad Jaam, Firas Laban, Helmo Hammami, Nasreddine Semar Qatar University, Doha, Qatar CEA LIST, Gif-sur-Yvette, France In order to improve the browsing activity in a documentary database, we propose a conceptual approach for multi-level restructuring of categorized documents in a corpus. Starting from a manual and static organized corpus, based on the domain ontology, we derive new dynamically generated structures embedded in the static one. We use a conceptual recursive indexing method based on the selection of the minimal number of concepts covering either a document or a subset of documents corresponding to a sub-corpus. Hence, our system provides an additional browsing feature to the user, by dynamically providing the system with a conceptual structure of clusters of documents. For illustration, you may find in the figure an application to Arabic financial news for a particular ontology. Therefore, one finds sub-category (“ ”التمويل،“ )”التصديرunder the category “”االتفاقيات. Also, (“ ”االتفاقيات،” ”الشراء–البيع،“ )”القروضunder the category, “ ”المعامالتetc. In parallel with the classical browser system, indexing words, provided for each level, give the user more details about the file’s content, as well as the category content, before further exploration. Our approach improves human-computer interaction by decreasing the browsing time. Assessment of the proposed method proves that combining manual documents categorizations, with the automatic feature generations, gives a flexible and effective structured browsing interface to the users. Finally, low-level features help for incrementally placing new documents in the right category, by using suitable supervised classification methods. Computing | Poster Presentations 145 | 145 144 CSP3 CSP4 Numerical simulation of particle-laden coaxial turbulent jets Author Institution Kumaran Kannaiyan Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar The study of particle-laden coaxial, turbulent jets has been of interest due to its importance in several applications such as industrial burners, combustors and mixing devices. The addition of the second phase to the continuous phase jet can change the already complicated flow pattern and turbulent characteristics of the jets. Vast research efforts have been devoted to understanding such phenomena, but detailed investigation of particle-laden flows remains an active area of research. The advent of laser diagnostics has helped to quantify the myriad details of the turbulent jet flow fields in great detail. However, the diagnostic tools are very expensive to use as a research tool. As a result, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with an acceptable level of accuracy can complement the experimental results by providing additional details that are difficult to measure. Nevertheless, even with the advancement of computational resources, modeling the turbulent characteristics remains a challenge due to its complex nature. Although recently, computational techniques have been developed to “solve” the turbulent quantities, these techniques are computationally too expensive to use in real time applications. Hence, in this work, standard Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes, numerical simulations are carried out to predict the flow and turbulent characteristics of coaxial jets with and without the dispersed phase. The results are compared with the experimental data measured using molecular tagging velocimetry diagnostic technique. The key objective of this work is to investigate the flow field details that are difficult, if not impossible, to measure. Computing | Poster Presentations Assistive educational technology Author Institution Ameer Abdulsalam Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Despite the importance of literacy to employment and social well-being, the literacy rate of the visually impaired and deaf population is estimated to be quite low. Braille, the primary method of reading and writing for the blind, is a tactile system in which embossed dots representing letters and numbers can be read with the fingers. Similarly, the primary method of communication for the deaf is sign language. Sign language simultaneously combines hand shapes, orientation and movement of the hands, arms or body, and facial expressions to express fluidly a deaf speaker’s thoughts. As is the case in spoken language, Braille and sign language can differ from one region to another, but the basic elements of both Braille and sign language remain consistent across cultures. A significant problem in education for both the deaf and visually impaired populations is that they are minority populations and hence often have less guided practice in communication. They also participate in fewer interactions with the larger community that reinforce their literacy and communication skills. Finally, the focus of technological enhancements to education has primarily focused on the majority populations, and hence very few automated tutors and educational computing games have been created for visually impaired and deaf children. Our work aims to remedy this situation by developing assistive technology to enhance education for the visually impaired and deaf populations throughout the world. We have developed several tools including a Braille writing tutor (BWT) and the DeSIGN software application, which provides guided practice for communication using sign language. The BWT is a device that connects to a computer through a USB cable. As the student writes each Braille letter or number, the tutor provides immediate audio feedback by repeating the written characters and guiding writing through audio cues, and a variety of curricular and game modes. The DeSIGN tool aims to increase the reading level of the students who are taught to communicate using sign language by reinforcing the mapping between vocabulary and signs through lessons, tests, and games. It also has an interactive game, which provides teachers with a customizable tool for motivating students. 147 | 147 146 CSP5 CSP6 Effect of non-uniform, out-of-plane illumination, shear rate and particle distribution on the accuracy of nPIV velocity measurement Authors Institution Rana Khader, Anoop Kanjirakat, Reza Sadr Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Nanoparticle image velocimetry (nPIV) uses evanescent-wave illumination to measure two velocity components, U and V, tangential to a wall in a region with thickness of the order of hundreds of nanometers. In this region the illumination intensity decays exponentially with distance normal to the wall, z, and hence tracers closer to the wall have ‘brighter’ and ‘bigger’ images than those that are further away, i.e. at larger z. Moreover, fluid velocity varies in this region with z and hence tracers at different distance from the wall move at different speeds. Furthermore, presence of the wall has a significant effect on particle distribution, and particle displacement due to local fluid velocity and Brownian displacement of particle tracers in this region. The variation in the displacement of particle images in this region, with different brightness and velocities, can bias the near-wall velocities obtained using standard correlation-based PIV method. Artificial nPIV images of nanoparticles in a flow field with linear out-of-plane velocity profile were used in this work to investigate the impact of these issues upon the accuracy of nPIV data. Uniform and Gaussian random distribution noise were added to the images to simulate electronic noise and shot noise, respectively. The artificial images were obtained and processed for various experimental parameters to incorporate different illumination profiles, shear rates and distribution profiles. The results demonstrate that non-uniform illumination, as well as particle distribution, affects the bias in the estimated tracer velocity for the shear flow. Non-uniform intensity also affects the bias due to Brownian diffusion; however, correction for Brownian diffusion canreduce this bias error. Computing | Poster Presentations Estimation of highly selective channels for downlink LTE system by a robust neural network Authors Institutions Aymen Omri, R. Hamila, M. Hasna, R. Bouallegue, H. Chaieb Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Higher School of Communication of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia In this paper we propose a robust channel estimator for the downlink of a Long Term Evolution (LTE) system using a highly selective neural network. This method uses the information provided by the reference signals to estimate the total frequency response of the channel in two phases. In the first phase, the proposed method learns to adapt to the channel variations, and in the second phase it predicts the channel parameters. The performance of the estimation method in terms of complexity and quality is confirmed by theoretical analysis and simulations in an LTE/OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency-Division Multiple Access) transmission system. The performance of the proposed channel estimator is compared with those of least-square decision feedback and modified Wiener methods. The simulation results show that the proposed estimator performs better than the above estimators and it is more robust at high-speed mobility. 149 | 149 148 CSP7 CSP8 Time of arrival-based location estimation for cooperative relay networks Authors Institutions Hasari Celebi, Mohammed Abdallah, Hussein Syed, Khalid Qarage, Mohamed Slim Alouni Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Cooperative communications is a technique to create a virtual antenna array using several distributed single antenna nodes in the system. It helps in increasing the area of coverage without the need of increased transmission power. As the destination receives multiple copies of the source’s signal, it also improves the diversity order. The performance of cooperative networks has been thoroughly investigated in the past for various system models, protocols, forwarding techniques and fading environments. Location estimation is another crucial process in cooperative relay networks, as it is for the other types of wireless communications networks. For instance, the range and location information can be used for network authentication, localization or cluster forming in cooperative networks. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is no study in the literature that addresses the location estimation problem in cooperative relay networks. In this study, we investigate the performance of a cooperative relay network performing location estimation through time of arrival (TOA). We derive Cramer-Rao lower bound (CRLB) for the location estimates made using the relay network. The analysis is extended to obtain average CRLB considering the signal fluctuations in both relay and direct links. The effects of the channel fading of both relay and direct links and amplification factor and location of the relay node on average CRLB are investigated. Simulation results show that the channel fading of both relay and direct links and amplification factor and location of relay node affect the accuracy of TOA-based location estimation. Protocol suite for exploiting spectrum resources in Dynamic Spectrum Access Networks Authors Institution Vinay Kolar, Nael Abu-Ghazaleh Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar The success and wide proliferation of wireless and mobile services places extreme pressure on the limited available wireless bandwidth. As this pressure continues to increase with smartphones, new services and users, the available bandwidth will not be able to sustain it, severely limiting the promise of computing on the move. Dynamic Spectrum Access networks (DSANs or sometimes known as Cognitive Radio Networks) offer the potential of alleviating this problem. Unlike traditional wireless networks, DSANs are not restricted to operate over a fixed bandwidth in license-free frequency spectrum. DSANs dynamically utilize the unused bandwidth in licensed bands, such as the bandwidth allocated to cellular networks, without harming the primary licensed users. While DSANs are capable of reusing an otherwise wasted bandwidth, translating the large bandwidth into application requirements, such as higher capacity and lower delays, is a complex problem. The networking protocols have to understand application requirements, monitor the unused spectrum, and dynamically adapt to schedule and route the traffic without affecting the primary licensed users. In this paper, we propose a suite of measurement-based models and protocols that enable applications to realize the lower-layer resources in a DSAN. First, we propose a centralized network-monitoring engine. It dynamically computes the network topology graph and spectrum usage statistics. Based on this information, a stochastic model predicts the available capacity and delay estimates, and exposes them to the applications using simple Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). Second, we propose a routing protocol that uses the API to construct high-capacity or low-delay routes. We have deployed the system in a test bed with software-defined radios at Carnegie Mellon University, Qatar. The proposed framework enables the design of practical and efficient higherlayer protocols. However, the more general problem of optimal resource allocation in DSAN requires solving other complex tasks, such as optimal spectrum assignment and scheduling. In the future, we plan to model and demonstrate practical solutions for these problems. We also plan to pursue distributed heuristics that adapt to mobility. Computing | Poster Presentations 150 | 151 CSP9 CSP10 Development of an optimal data reduction scheme for a four-wire hot-wire probe Authors Institution Singha Arindam, Reza Sadr Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar One of the most widely used measurement instruments in the turbulence community is the hot-wire probe. Amongst them, the four-wire probe is lately gaining popularity because of the enhanced accuracy and the extended directional working range due to the presence of the fourth ‘redundant’ wire. However, the need for exhaustive calibration makes the hot-wire probe a less preferred instrument to be used in atmospheric research. In the present study, development and testing of an effective data reduction scheme for a four-wire probe is reported. The robustness of the data reduction scheme enables one to obtain the same order of accuracy in measurement with reduced calibration points, and in turn reduced calibration effort. The data reduction scheme works based on the calculation of the directional sensitivity function of each wire, and then, minimization of an artificially constructed error function. Since the directional sensitivity function is smooth and continuous in space, the same order of accuracy can be obtained with less effort. In the present work, a fourwire probe was considered, and calibrated in a constant velocity jet facility. Following calibration, the data reduction scheme was applied to test the probe numerically for a random noise applied on four probes simultaneously, and the angular error was computed. The assessment of the involved accuracy of the data reduction scheme with reduced points of calibration was established. Computing | Poster Presentations Characterization of the indoor/outdoor radio propagation channel at 2.4 GHz on Qatar University campus Author Institution Irfan Ahmed Qatar University, Doha, Qatar This technical report presents the site-specific signal strength measurement results for path loss, shadowing, and fading in the 2.4GHz band under typical harsh environment (high temperature 40-50 C and humidity 80-90%). We used spectrum analyzer Rohde & Schwarz FSH8 and InSSIDer, free software for wireless local area networks (WLANs). Measurements were taken in indoor and outdoor environments at various locations at different times of the day. An empirical channel model has been derived from these measurements that characterizes the indoor-outdoor wireless channel. This report provides information that would be useful for the design and deployment of wireless mesh network in Qatar University. For a radio communication system, the channel describes how the electromagnetic propagation of a transmitted signal provides that signal at the receiver. In a mobile communication system, the channel changes according to the movement of the communicating entities and other objects that have an effect on the electromagnetic fields at the receiver. In the last decade, most of the indoor wired networks have been replaced by wireless networks. These networks can also provide outdoor connectivity inside the campus areas. WLANs based on IEEE 802.11 are largely deployed to provide users with network connectivity without being tethered to a wired network. Wireless networks can provide nearly the same services and capabilities commonly expected with wired networks. Like their wired counterparts, IEEE 802.11 has been developed to provide large bandwidth to users located in indoor and outdoor campus environments and are being studied as an alternative to the high installation and maintenance costs incurred by traditional additions, deletions, and changes experienced in wired LAN infrastructures. Because of the unlicensed spectrum availability, IEEE 802.11 WLAN devices operate in the ISM (Industrial Scientific Medical) band at 2.4GHz or 5GHz. For an accurate planning of indoor/outdoor radio networks the modeling of the propagation channel is required. 153 | 153 152 CSP11 CSP12 An initial study of the structural phase transition of SrTiO3 Authors Institutions Fadwa El Mellouhi, Edward Bothers, Gustavo Scuseria, Melissa Lucero Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Rice University, Houston, TX, USA SrTiO3 (STO) is a complex oxide perovskite of great technological interest for its superconductivity, blue-light emission and photovoltaic effect. In normal conditions, SrTiO3 crystallizes in the cubic Perovskite structure and undergoes a second-order phase transition to a tetragonal structure known as the antiferrodistortive (AFD) phase of STO at the critical temperature Tc = 105 K. The AFD phase of STO can appear near the interfaces at much higher temperatures if STO is used as a substrate for the growth of thin films or superlattices with other perovskites. In the last decades, both phases of STO have been extensively studied with different schemes of ab initio calculations, but none of the previously published work has been able to give, at the same time, an accurate estimate of the structural and electronic properties of the cubic and AFD phases of STO. In this work, we use Gaussian 09 to fully explain the reason behind this failure using a large spectrum of functionals ranging from pure DFT functionals like LDA and GGA to more modern and complex hybrid functional like HISS and HSE06. We also show how the quality of the basis set compete with the functional effect in predicting the properties of STO, the strongest competition being observed for the AFD phase. In fact, basis sets of low quality tend to seriously inhibit the tetragonality of the AFD phase and sometimes even suppress it. On the other hand, pure DFT functionals tend to overestimate the tetragonality of the AFD phase in agreement with previously reported results in the literature using basis sets of comparable quality. Hybrid functionals predict the structural properties of the cubic and AFD phase in very good agreement with experimental results, especially if used with high quality basis sets. Thus, we present the most reliable combination of functional and Gaussian basis set for STO currently computationally tractable. This combination gave the best agreement with the experimental structural and electronic properties for the cubic and the AFD phases of STO. It is accurate enough to enable us to understand the changes in the band structure during the cubic to AFD phase transition, predict the carrier densities, find the activation barriers for the formation and mobility of defects and the magnetic ordering. Computing | Poster Presentations Data structures and algorithms in pen-based computing environments Author Institution Victor Adamchik Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, PA, USA Data structure visualization (or animation) has been studied for more than twenty years, though existing systems have not gained wide acceptance in the classroom by students and their instructors. The main reason is that animation preparation is too time consuming. A more technical reason is that when a particular data structure is encoded into an animation, it does not have the flexibility often needed in a classroom setting. There is also a pedagogical reason: a number of prior studies have found that using algorithm visualization in a classroom had no significant effect on student performance. We believe that the tablet PC, empowered by digital ink, will challenge the current boundaries imposed upon algorithm animation. One of the potential advantages of this new technology is that it allows the expression and exchange of ideas in an interactive environment using sketch-based interfaces. In this paper we discuss teaching and learning tablet PC based environment in which students using a stylus would draw a particular instance of a data structure and then invoke an algorithm to animate over this data structure. A completely natural way of drawing using a digital pen will generate a data structure model, which (once it is checked for correctness) will serve as a basis for execution of various computational algorithms. In the future, we will extend the above visualization tool to a hybrid theorem prover system. Experience shows that many computer science students have great difficulties with the proofs methods encountered in, say, an advanced course on algorithms. Indeed, often the logical foundation of a proof argument seems to escape some of the students. We propose to transform students’ experience with proofs by incorporating pen-based technology into introductory computer science courses. In particular, we consider formal proofs in Euclidean geometry. The cornerstone of this model is the concept of geometrical sketching, dynamically combined with an underlying mathematical model. A completely natural way of drawing using a digital pen will generate a system of polynomial equations of several variables. The latter will be fed to a theorem prover, based on the Grőbner bases technique, which will automatically establish inner properties of the model. Moreover, once a particular mathematical model is created and then checked for accuracy, it will serve as a basis for logical deduction of various geometrical statements that might follow. Finally, a detailed step-by-step exposition of the proving process will be provided. 155 | 155 154 CSP13 CSP14 Nanoscale Brownian motion-based thermometry in near wall region Authors Institution Anoop Kanjirakat, Rana Khader, Reza Sadr Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar In nanoparticle image velocimentry (nPIV), evanescent wave illumination is used to measure near-wall velocity fields with an out-of-plane resolution of less than 200nm. Similar methodology can be extended for temperature measurements using Brownian motion characteristics of the sub-micron tracer particles in this region. Temperature change affects Brownian motion of tracer particles through a change in Brownian diffusion coefficient and a change in viscosity. The present study tries to numerically investigate the possibilities of utilizing this effect in near-wall thermometry. Synthetic nPIV images of the illuminated particle tracer of 100nm diameter are initially generated. The spatial distribution of the particles takes in to account near wall forces such as buoyancy, electrostatic repulsion and Van Der Waals attraction, in addition to the hindered Brownian motion. Validation studies are carried out using stationary liquids at constant temperatures. It is believed that this observation would help in explaining the anomalous heat transfer characteristics of nanofluids. ParaNets: a parallel network architecture for the future internet Authors Institution Khaled Harras, Abderrahmen Mtibaa Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar The evolution of networking technologies and portable devices has led users to expect connectivity anytime and everywhere. We have reached the point of seeing networking occur underwater, via aerial devices, and across space. While researchers push the true boundaries of networking to serve a wide range of environments, there is the challenge of providing robust network connectivity beyond the boundaries of the core internet, defined by fiber optics and well-organized backbones. As the internet edges expand, the expectation is that connectivity will be as good, in terms of high bandwidth and minimal interruption, as anywhere in the core. Such an expectation contradicts the inherent nature of connectivity at the edges. Researchers have been trying to solve this problem primarily by layering more network connection opportunities using newer technologies such as WiFi, WiMax, and cellular networks. The result is not better robustness, just more of the same. The choice of which network to use is somewhat dependent on location, partially driven by economics, and ultimately decided by the user. Our goal is to create a research thrust that builds robust networking at the edge of the internet by integrating various network technologies. These technologies should ultimately enable users to more seamlessly connect to the internet. Mobile devices and the applications running on them are currently incapable of identifying various potential communication opportunities and seamlessly utilizing them in order to maximize throughput. Furthermore, these applications should be capable of utilizing these connection opportunities in parallel, be resilient to disruptions, and optimize this utilization pattern to rising cost and energy concerns. This overall objective requires fundamentally re-working the internet’s connectivity model to exploit the array of networking opportunities and evolve the traditional protocol stack to a more dynamic plug-and-play stack. Computing | Poster Presentations 157 | 157 156 CSP15 CSP16 Discrimination thresholds of virtual curvature for haptic and visual sensory information and future applications in medical virtual training Mental task discrimination using digital signal processing Author Author Institution Jong Yoon Ministry of Environment, Doha, Qatar Qatar University, Doha, Qatar The senses of vision and touch are vital modalities used in the discrimination of objects. Recent advances in human-computer interface technologies have produced various haptic force feedback devices for the industries of rehabilitation, information technology, entertainment, and more. In this research effort, an inexpensive stylus-type haptic device is used to determine thresholds of concave curvature discrimination in visual-haptic experiments. Discrimination thresholds are found for each sense independently as well as for combinations of these with and without the presence of conflicting information. Results indicate that on average, the visual sense is about three times more sensitive than the haptic sense in discriminating curvature in virtual environments. It is also noticed that subjects seem to rely more heavily on the sense that contains the most informative cues rather than on any one particular sense, in agreement with the sensory integration model proposed by other researchers. The authors believe that the resulting thresholds may serve as relative comparisons between perceptual performance and this study may be further expanded to audio and texture senses supported by the Undergraduate Research Enhancement Program (UREP) of the Qatar National Research Fund. It is also noted that these preliminary studies will constitute a valuable asset to the medical virtual training research and development. Computing | Poster Presentations Institution Mohammed Mostafa Yehia Recent advances in computer hardware and signal processing have made possible the use of EEG signals or ‘brain waves’ for communication between humans and computers. Locked-in patients now have a way to communicate with the outside world, but even with the latest techniques, such systems still suffer communication rates of the order of 2-3 tasks/minute. In addition, existing systems are not likely to be designed with flexibility in mind, leading to slow systems that are difficult to improve. This work classifies different mental tasks through the use of the electroencephalogram (EEG). EEG signals from several subjects have been studied during the performance of five mental tasks: a baseline task for which the subjects were asked to relax as much as possible, a multiplication task for which the subjects were given nontrivial multiplication problem without vocalizing or making any other movements, a letter composing task for which the subjects were instructed to mentally compose a letter without vocalizing (imagine writing a letter to a friend in their head), a rotation task for which the subjects were asked to visualize a particular three-dimensional block figure being rotated about its axis, and a counting task for which the subjects were asked to imagine a blackboard and to visualize numbers being written on the board sequentially. The work presented here can be viewed as part of a larger project, whose goal is to classify EEG signals belonging to a varied set of mental activities in a real time brain-computer interface, in order to investigate the feasibility of using different mental tasks as a wide communication channel between people and computers. 159 | 159 158 Student Posters CSP17 A multilingual financial watch alerting system Authors Institutions Ali Mohamed Jaoua, Nasredine Semmar, Hassane Essafi, Samir Elloumi, Jihad Al’Jaam, Helmi Hammami, Firas Laban, Fethi Ferjani Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar CEA LIST, Gif-sur-Yvette, France Depending on user profiles expressed by associated expected events, and conditions for raising alerts, from manual meticulous news annotation of an adequately selected corpus, an ontology domain is created. A cross-language information retrieval approach is used for automatic translation of financial documents corresponding to the particular domain corresponding to the user requirement. By this way, users may receive alerts and news expressed in their own language even if they are initially expressed in a different language. Manual annotation is used for knowledge extraction composed of general rules useful for automatic annotation of financial news arriving instantly to the system from reliable providers of information. As a first step in the loop, news are filtered, split into different sub-documents each one corresponding to a particular event and categorized. News are then mapped automatically to formatted data as instantiations of a sequence of predefined entities defined an event. By using alerting conditions given by the user, data analysis of structured tables might raise or not alerts to the user, with an adequate explanation of the cause of the alert. Automatically selected alerts initiate a new process for information generation to the user by starting a new browsing sequence of news containing events which are related to the raised alerts. Related news are recursively processed through the same structuring process in order to offer more historical data related to the alert helping the user to make decision. Computing | Poster Presentations CSPS1 Constraint diagrams can be used to interpret program specification expressions: an evaluation experiment with novice users Author Institution Noora Fetais University of Sussex, Brighton, UK Constraint diagrams (CDs) are a graphical notation used for program specification. For the purposes of formal software specification using a visual method, Kent designed constraint diagrams as an intuitive approach to formally specify programs. This paper presents an experiment that evaluates the interpretation of constraint diagrams compared with natural language (NL) for understanding program specification statements. In a web-based training competition, participants were randomly divided into two groups and were given 8 training examples either on the CD notation or equivalent NL expression. Each example is followed by 3 questions about the specification statements. In total there were 24 questions presented in each notation. It was predicted that the CD participants would find that learning concepts and answering questions would be harder than those in the NL group, because they had no prior experience of the CD notation. Surprisingly despite the fact that CD notation was new for participants, the CD group spent less time answering the questions and achieved the same proportion of correct answers as the NL group. However, as predicted, they were less confident in their answers and they spent more time on the training examples to learn the new concepts. 161 | 161 160 CSPS2 CSPS3 Rich entity recognition in English text Authors Institutions Rishav Bhowmick, Michael Heilman, Kemal Oflazer, Behrang Mohit, Noah Smith Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburg, PA, USA Entity type recognition is used as a pre-processing step in common applications like summarization of text, classifying documents or automatic answering of questions posed in natural language. Here, ‘entity’ refers to concrete and abstract objects identified by proper and common nouns. Entity recognition focuses on detecting instances of types like person, location, organization, and so on. For example, an entity recognizer would take as input: George Washington was the first President of the United States of America. and output: <noun.person> George Washington </noun.person> was the first <noun.person> President </noun.person> of the <noun.location> United States of America </noun.Location>. The task can be performed using machine learning techniques to train a system that recognizes entities with performance comparable to a human annotator. Challenges like the lack of a large annotated training data corpus, impossible nature of listing all entity types, and ambiguity in language make this problem hard. There are existing entity recognizers which perform this task but with fair performance. One of the ways adopted to improve the performance of an existing entity recognizer is feature engineering. We initially find out which of the existing features, used in the recognizer, affect the performance most strongly. We accomplish this by adding and removing one or more features at a time from the feature list. We then use the training data to train a model and test to find out which set of features are important. The evaluation metric involves finding the precision, recall and f-score (which is the harmonic mean of precision and recall). As a next step, we add new features like word clusters and bigram word features to find out any improvements. Word clusters help when the training data does not have some words, but words belonging to the same cluster are present in the training data. This helps tagging unseen words in the test set. We also experiment with varying the size of the training data to find out how it affects the performance. Additionally, we look into Wikipedia as a source of additional features for the training data. Wikipedia has an elaborate internal link structure that can provide vital information about the category of a word. This category can be linked to a broader-sensed entity type. Computing | Student Posters StepID - A Matlab-based toolbox for identification title from step response Authors Institution Sarah Qaffaf, Salim Ahmed, Nada Mustafa, Zainab Obeid Qatar University, Doha, Qatar For advanced control, transfer function models are widely used and identification from step response is a common choice in process industries to obtain such models. Over the last decade, significant developments have taken place in the field of identification from step response using the socalled integral equation approach. However, these developments have not been included in the identification tools available commercially. This work focuses on development of a MATLAB toolbox in the form of a graphical user interface (GUI) that will be a specialized tool for identification from step response. Due to the recent advancement in data storage capacity, industries have become repositories of enormous amounts of data. However, proper tools are needed to extract valuable information from raw data. The development of the toolbox started as an Undergraduate Research Experience Program (UREP) project from the 5th cycle and it was further modified and extended in the 7th cycle. The functionality of the toolbox includes data import from an excel file or a MAT file, preprocessing of data and the use of different methods to estimate continuous time transfer function model parameters of different orders under different conditions of the process. The toolbox includes methodologies to estimate model parameters and time delay simultaneously under steady or unsteady initial conditions using least squares and instrumental variable method. Methodologies to handle higher order models and non-minimum phase processes are also included. Finally, the toolbox has the capability to choose the best model from a list of models obtained using different methods. 163 | 163 162 Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies Oral Presentations Poster Presentations Student Posters Oral Presentations AHO1 Success strategies of small states: the State of Qatar compared to Switzerland, Singapore and Lebanon Author Institution Mark Farha Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar, Doha, Qatar AHO2 How effective are the student recruitment methods used by Qatar’s Education City universities? Author Institution Ahmed Baghdady RAND-Qatar Policy Institute, Doha, Qatar This study compares the rapid evolution of Qatar to that of the disproportionally influential small states of Switzerland, Lebanon and Singapore. Though set apart by history and circumstance, these states share a set of common traits, including a limited size, high vulnerability to external shocks, diplomatic dexterity, a salient presence in conflict mediation, high reliance on imported migrant labor, export-led growth, as well as a drive to maintain an efficient infrastructure and a skilled human capital base in highly competitive economies. As of 2009, Switzerland ranked as the world’s most competitive economy, Singapore towered as Asia’s number one, while Qatar topped the Middle East and North Africa. This paper is based on a research study conducted to explore the effectiveness of the students recruitment/marketing methods used to recruit students in Qatar’s Education City branch campuses. The desire of the author is that university branch campuses in Qatar and elsewhere may be stimulated to revisit their marketing and student recruitment plans and activities to better reach prospective students. The paper also explores the difficulties and challenges of marketing and student recruitment these institutions encounter in an attempt to provide ways to overcome these problems and make marketing and student recruitment more effective. Sources of success and vulnerability were two sides of the same coin. Openness to global trade and diplomacy allowed each state to market its skills and products beyond its size. At the same time, the paper contends that rapid global integration could lead to domestic dislocation, triggering compensatory governmental measures in response. The paper examines the respective responses of each state to the global credit crunch, spreading consumerism and geopolitical instabilities. The recent 2008 global recession acutely highlighted both the predicament of vulnerability, and the potential for superior resilience exhibited by these small states. The paper argues that while each state departed from country-specific comparative advantages (i.e. Qatar’s hydrocarbon reserves, Singapore’s port and high-tech industries, Switzerland’s quality manufacturing and banking, Lebanon’s financial services, education and tourism), the respective political leaders have espoused a similar paradigm of comprehensive social development. This study identifies the potential perils emanating from both within and without its borders, which, if averted, may allow Qatar to dispel the ‘rentier curse’ by establishing itself as a proactive leader in the fields of good governance and human development, further closing the gap with global frontrunners such as Switzerland and Singapore. Previous research on marketing and student recruitment methods in higher education as well as the marketing concept, effective marketing, relationship marketing, student enrolment behavior theory and collaboration in marketing are examined. Following the review of literature, data on marketing and student recruitment methods adopted by each branch campus were collected via a questionnaire. The questionnaire was sent to marketing/admissions staff of the branch campuses and semi-structured interviews were conducted for the same population in addition to a few public affairs officers and Education City officials. Detailed information about how effective each marketing method is and the challenges associated with each was collected and analyzed. Some documents and website pages were also examined. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Oral Presentations The responses of the questionnaire and interviews revealed that some methods, such as school visits, counselor events, information sessions and a dedicated exhibition for Education City institutions are very effective in student recruitment. On the other hand, educational exhibitions and websites were found not very effective. Student activities recently adopted by some institutions are yet to be assessed. Additionally, the research indicated that the challenges marketing and admissions staff encounter are logistical, administrative, financial, cultural and language-related. Some recommendations were offered to overcome these challenges and enhance the effectiveness of marketing and student recruitment at Education City institutions. 166 |167 AHO3 AHO4 دراسة شاملة عن اإلعاقة ،وأوضاع ذوي االحتياجات الخاصة في قطر المؤلف هال العلي المؤسسة اللجنة الوطنية لحقوق اإلنسان ،الدوحة ،قطر تنطلق اللجنة الوطنية لحقوق اإلنسان لدى قيامها بأي دراسة من الواقع اليومي المعاش للناس ،حي الهدف من النصوص القانونية لحقوق اإلنسان تقديم الحماية والتمكين لمن هم موضوعها األساسي “البشر” .ألجل تحقيق ذلك تتضمن الدراسة الناحية األكاديمية والتشريعات الوطنية والمعايير الدولية، إضافة إلى البحث الميدانية المنهجي. عرض مختصر عن الدراسة: تبدأ الدراسة بالتعريف عن المادة رقم ( )4في االتفاقية الدولية لحقوق ذوي اإلعاقة ،والتي تؤسس لمنهج البحث الذي قام على التشاور مع األشخاص ذوي اإلعاقة ،وأولياء األمور باإلضافة لألخصائيين ومدرسي التربية الخاصة ومساعديهم في المراكز التي تعنى بذوي االحتياجات الخاصة. تضمن الفصل األول شرح ًا لمفهوم تكافؤ الفرص ونشوء فكرة “الدمج” كحق لألشخاص ذوي االحتياجات الخاصة في منحهم فرص متساوية أمام أقرانهم ،فتم تفسير معنى الدمج التربوي بشروطه وفوائده، ومدى أهميته. وتضمن الفصل الثاني شرح ًا ألنواع اإلعاقة بتعريفات أكاديمية مختصرة ،تبعها إحصاءات اإلعاقة في دولة قطر ،لتنتقل الدراسة لبيان أسباب اإلعاقة كعامل الوراثة في زواج األقارب والتأثيرات البيئية والصحية. وبفتح الفصل الثالث من الدراسة تبدأ رحلة البحث الميداني لعدة جهات في قطر كالجمعية القطرية لذوي االحتياجات الخاصة ومركز الشفلح ومعهد النور للمكفوفين وغيرها... اعتمد البحث الميداني على قضاء وقت طويل في مراكز ذوي االحتياجات الخاصة وفتح حوارات وطرح أسئلة تفصيلية ،فمن اإلعاقات الحركية كشلل األطفال إلى اإلعاقات السمعية البصرية إلى حاالت التوحد والتخلف العقلي التي تتراوح في حدتها إضافة للشلل الدماغي واإلعاقات النادرة .سجل البحث الخدمات التي يدعي المركز تقديمها في المقابالت التي أجريت مع المدراء واألخصائيين ثم انتقل للمالحظة بالعين المجردة ،واستقراء األجوبة ،ومقارنة كل ذلك بالتشريعات الوطنية والمعايير الدولية الواردة في اتفاقية حقوق األشخاص ذوي اإلعاقة ،فتم تسجيل مالحظات إيجابية وأخرى سلبية عن عمل تلك المراكز والخدمات التي تقدمها ولم تكتف الدراسة بالنقد المنهجي بل تقدمت لكل مركز بتوصيات ومرئيات لتالفي ما وجدته من نواقص .وفي الفصل الرابع واألخير خلصت الدراسة إلى نتيجة عامة أن اإلعاقة تشكل مفهوم ًا ما يزال قيد التطور ،وأن الدولة حققت بعض االنجازات في مجال العناية باألشخاص ذوي االحتياجات الخاصة قياس ًا للمدة الزمنية التي بدأت بااللتفات لموضوع اإلعاقة وما يزال أمامها الكثير من العمل ،واختتمت الدراسة بخمسة عشر توصية ذات طابع عملي ال إنشائي لالرتقاء بأوضاع ذوي االحتياجات الخاصة. 168 169 ||169 169 Female ESL teachers’ perceptions about their roles and ’professional development needs in Qatar’s ‘Education for a New Era Kholode M H Al Obaidli Qatar Olympic Committee, Doha, Qatar Author Institution Research shows that successful educational reform is multi-faceted, requiring rigorous planning and investment in teacher professional development. The focus of this study is female ESL teachers in Qatar’s public school educational reform, Education for a New Era, which created 36 publicly funded Independent Schools with a standards-based curriculum using English as a Second Language as the medium of instruction in mathematics and science. The research investigated the perceptions of female ESL teachers regarding Qatar’s reforms and their experiences using new approaches to teaching ESL. Professional development needs were also identified. A mixed method approach was used. A questionnaire was distributed to 233 female ESL teachers and 18 semi-structured interviews conducted. Generally, teachers valued increased freedom, but expressed a lack of support, and noted increased workloads and conflicts between professional roles and private lives. Change facilitators were seen as supportive. Views about school administrators varied. After analysis and presentation of the findings, I concluded that while educational reform in Qatar had been largely conceptualized from the top down, close attention is still needed regarding the role of female ESL teachers in the process of implementation. In particular, since reform is dependent upon sustained professional development for ESL teachers. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Oral Presentations AHO4 AHO4 A comprehensive study on disability and the conditions of people with special needs in Qatar Author Institution A comprehensive study on disability and the conditions of people with special needs in Qatar (CONT’) Hala Al-Ali National Human Rights Committee, Doha, Qatar In undertaking any study, the National Human Rights Commission starts from the reality of the people’s daily life. This stems from the fact that the objective of the legal texts related to human rights is to provide protection and empowerment to those who represent their primary object, i.e. human beings. In order to achieve this goal, this study includes academic aspects, national legislations and international standards, in addition to methodical field research. This study begins with the definition of Article No. (4) of the International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which lays the foundation for the research methodology which was based on consultation with people with disabilities, their parents and specialists, in addition to teachers of special education and their assistants at the centers that deal with people with special needs. As a result, there were a number of positive and negative remarks regarding the activities of these centers and the services they provide. The study was not restricted to methodical criticism, but has also provided each center with recommendations and videos, in order to avoid the shortcomings found. In its final part, Chapter IV, the study has concluded with a general outcome that disability represents a concept that is still under development, and the State has made already some achievements in caring for persons with special needs, comparing to the period of time when the State began to pay attention to the issue of disability. Nevertheless, there is still a lot of work to be done in this regard. The study concluded with fifteen recommendations of a practical nature, to advance the conditions of people with special needs. Chapter I of the study includes an explanation of the concept of equal opportunities and the emergence of the idea of ‘integration’ as a fundamental right of persons with special needs in order to give them equal opportunities with their peers, therefore, the meaning of educational integration was explained, along with its conditions, benefits and its importance. Chapter II includes an explanation of the types of disability through brief academic definitions, followed by statistics on disability in the State of Qatar. Further, the study demonstrates the causes of disability, such as genetic factors in the marriage between relatives, in addition to environmental and health impacts. Chapter III of the study marks the beginning of the conducted field research for a number of institutions in Qatar, such as Qatar Society for People with Special Needs, the Shafallah Center and Al-Nour Institute for the Blind, and others. Field research was based on spending a long time at the centers for people with special needs, conducting discussions and asking detailed questions. Disabilities discussed include motor disabilities such as polio to audio-visual disabilities, autism and mental retardation with various levels of intensity in addition to cerebral palsy and rare disabilities. This study has documented the services claimed to be provided by every center in interviews conducted with the managers and workers, then moved on to direct observations, extrapolation of answers, then comparing all such data to national legislations and international standards contained in the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Oral Presentations 170 171 ||171 171 AHO6 AHO5 Participation of women in Qatar’s labor force Author Institution Kien Le Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Qatarization, a process to increase the number of Qatari nationals in the labor force, is considered one of the country top priorities to ensure its long-term economic development and security purpose. As 96 percent of Qatari men and 43 percent of Qatari women are currently in the labor force and women are more educated than men on average, it is clear that a significant increase in the labor force, especially in high skilled jobs, can only be achieved by increasing the participation of women in the labor force. It is therefore important to understand the factors that influence the decision of Qatari women to participate in the labor force. Using a nationally representative survey data and recent advances in the quantile regression technique, we analyze women’s willingness to participate not only at the mean value (given by well known logistic regression) but also at its various quantiles. We found that the offer wage rate, age and education plays an important role in women decision to join the labor force. These factors have a positive effect on women’s participation, but the effect varies across quantiles. The effects of marriage and having children, contrary to normal expectation, are not statistically significant, suggesting that once women enter the labor force they are not likely to exit because of marriage or children. We also discuss policy implications of the results to the Qatarization process. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Oral Presentations Attitudes toward expatriate and labor migrant workers in the Arab Gulf countries: mixed results from Qatar Authors Institution Abdoulaye Diop, Kien Le, Darwish Alemadi Qatar University, Doha, Qatar This paper presents an overview of Qatari citizens’ attitudes toward expatriate and labor migrant workers in Qatar. It is based on the first ‘scientific’ survey of Qatari citizens and residents (expatriates and labor migrants) conducted by the Qatar University Social and Economic Survey Research Institute (SESRI) in May/ June 2010. The main objectives of this paper were threefold: first, to assess Qatari attitudes towards the presence of these expatriate and labor migrant workers in Qatar. Do Qatari citizens support or oppose the restrictions on the number of foreign workers in the country? How do they evaluate the number of expatriate and labor migrant workers present in the country? Second, to evaluate whether these attitudes translate into negative or positive attitudes toward migrant workers and their contribution to Qatar? Do Qatari citizens think that expatriate and labor migrant workers strengthen their country and help to build its economy, or do they think they weaken the country and put a strain on its resources? Finally, the paper will present and analyze Qatari citizens’ attitudes toward the sponsorship system or Kafala. Do Qatari citizens support the change of the sponsorship system to make the migrant workers more dependent on their employees, less dependent on their employees, or do they want to maintain the status quo. The paper makes use of univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses and differences will be determined using chi-squared and t-tests. The mean number of responses to certain questions will be compared across the demographic groups to highlight subgroup differences. 172 173 ||173 173 AHO7 AHO8 Enhancing the development impact of remittances: a study of direct payment and savings facilities for Filipino workers in Qatar Author Institution Seshan Ganesh Kumar Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar, Doha, Qatar International remittances are playing an increasingly important role in the economies of developing countries. Aside from being an important source of foreign exchange for many recipient countries, recent research has shown that households that receive remittances are more likely to leave poverty status, to send their children to school and to invest in small enterprises, health, education and housing. While remittances bring numerous benefits to households in developing countries, little is known about the extent to which remittance flows are reduced by the fact that migrants have limited ability to monitor and control how remittances are spent by beneficiaries. This research aims to investigate whether the introduction of new, innovative financial services can enhance the ability of migrants to save, monitor and control how their remittances are utilized. In partnership with a financial institution in the Philippines, we have designed two new financial products that will be offered randomly via a field experiment, to a sample of Filipino migrants in Qatar enrolled in this study. The first financial product is a commitment savings account that has the potential to raise household savings for clients with self-control concerns. The second financial product is a direct (bill) payment facility that allows a migrant to pay vendors in the Philippines directly. The offer of financial services to the migrant is to enable them to either save more of their remittances (using the commitment savings account) and/or make payments directly to vendors in the Philippines (with the direct payment facility), as opposed to having their families back home arrange payments. All subjects in Qatar and their origin households in the Philippines will be administered a baseline survey covering employment, income and expenses, level of remittances, financial services used and desired and savings. A follow-up survey will be administered later to the migrant and their households in order to determine the use of the new products and its impact on the level and use of remittances or more generally household expenditures. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Oral Presentations Qatari women and the internet: an analytical study for patterns of use and utilization Author Institutions Hesham Mahmoud Azmi Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt Qatar University, Doha, Qatar The State of Qatar has exerted relentless efforts towards activating the participation of Qatari women in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in general and the use of the internet in particular. Female participation and involvement in this field is considered to be one of the priorities included in the plans and projects of the Qatar’s ICT Strategy. However, research endeavors which analytically address the use of the internet by Arab women in general, and Qatari women in particular, are rather scarce. The main purpose of this research paper, representing a national survey sponsored by Qatar’s SCFA, is to investigate the patterns of use and utilization of the internet by Qatari women. In its attempt to achieve this purpose, the paper explores the impact of social, marital, educational, and economic status of Qatari women on their use of the internet. It also identifies Qatari women views and attitudes towards the internet as well as the difficulties and obstacles that impede their use. Hence, it provides a clear understanding of Qatari women’s utilization patterns of the internet concerning the frequency, aims, methods of use, and the impact of this use on various aspects of their daily life. The study adopts an analytical descriptive method. A survey instrument in the form of a questionnaire was designed and administered as the main data collection tool for the purpose of this study. The validity and reliability of this instrument were determined using referees validation and pilot trial sample respectively. The main factions of Qatari women representing the population of the study include government employees, private sector employees, public sector employees, university students, and housewives. A total of 2367 questionnaires were distributed among a stratified random sample of Qatari women in 26 of the major employers in Qatar including: ministries, universities, banks, financial organizations, and major corporations such as QTEL, HMC, and QP. The response rate was relatively high, 1618 questionnaires were returned representing a response rate of 68.3%. Both descriptive and inferential statistics techniques were employed for the purposes of data analysis. 174 175 ||175 175 AHO9 AHO10 Proof of concept ‘A Portable Architecture for Qatar’ Authors Institution Roman Turczyn, Peter Chomowicz Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar The proof of concept is a research-based analysis by Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar, Center for Research in Design to evaluate the feasibility of converting surplus ISO shipping containers into housing units for migrant workers in the State of Qatar. The project addresses the need for temporary labor accommodation associated with Qatar’s rapid growth and development. The goal for this project is to identify a long-term, economical solution to this social challenge in support of Qatar’s National Vision 2030 toward sustainable development. The proof of concept evolved from its initial mandate of evaluating the feasibility of converting shipping containers for migrant worker housing into an enhanced scope of work that demonstrates how the results of our research could be used to develop a unique and innovative concept for ‘A Portable Architecture for Qatar’. This expanded agenda not only addresses the original mandate but also demonstrates the value of a holistic design approach. ‘A Portable Architecture for Qatar’ examines and identifies sustainable, economic options for application in urban, rural and remote construction site locations in Qatar and possibly for application as disaster relief where needed worldwide. Dohaland research: search for a contemporary Qatari architectural language that is ‘modern rooted in the past’ Author Institution John Rose Dohaland, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar Since its inception in early 2009, Dohaland has been tasked by its Board of Directors to support the intellectual and cultural efforts of Qatar Foundation by extending its work beyond day-to-day real estate development activities to include research projects that focus on the built form, the life patterns of Qatari residents, etc. This presentation will present and discuss current and future research-related projects and activities under the Dohaland research program including: • Gulf architectural encyclopedia research • Qatari architecture research • Qatari cultural/socio research: (slavery, living/oral history, oil and gas inception, MHOD memory center) • Coordination with Qatar Science & Technology Park re-applied research These subjects are in early phases of work and can be tracked in the future as they further develop. The vision of ‘A Portable Architecture for Qatar’ is to plan, design, prototype and commercialize a manufacturing system that combines best management practices of integrated, sustainable design with innovative planning concepts to serve the growing market for migrant worker housing in Qatar. ‘A Portable Architecture for Qatar’ is based on a business model that demonstrates cost effectiveness through reduced operating costs because of an integrated design approach. The concept is intended to meet and surpass international standards for migrant workers living conditions. Taking the lead in this challenge will not only improve the lives of migrant workers but will also place Qatar in the forefront of improving the Gulf-wide image of human rights. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Oral Presentations 176 177 ||177 177 AHO11 AHO12 Developing an information resource on Islamic medical and scientific ethics Author Institution Frieda Wiebe Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in Qatar, Doha, Qatar The Bioethics Research Library at Georgetown University and Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service Library in Qatar are working together to establish an information resource covering Islamic thought on medical and scientific ethics. We plan to include both historical and contemporary writings in English and Arabic, as well as in other languages, when possible. Ultimately, we intend for this three-year initial project to produce not only an online database, but also to form a core collection within Qatar’s Central Library and to enhance the Bioethics Research Library’s collection in Washington. All of these efforts are focused on serving researchers and educators in the region and around the world. Staff members who are working on the project are fluent in Arabic or Farsi, and are educated in Islamic Studies, librarianship, and information technology. A variety of professional and organizational contacts are being pursued in order to identify and acquire relevant scholarly material. Although some of the foreign-language cataloging has commenced, we continue to explore database software appropriate for displaying accurately Arabic and Farsi characters as well as related transliteration. English-language cataloging and indexing is well underway using existing software. In the first year of the project, we identified 646 documents in English, Arabic and Farsi and began indexing them, using a specialized vocabulary to address new topics. “Keywords of Special Interest to Islamic Medical and Scientific Ethics (IMSE) Database Searchers” is available online. New terms have been integrated into the current “Bioethics Thesaurus,” offered in full as an online thesaurus database at http://bioethics.georgetown.edu/databases/bt/index.html Additional access terms are suggested in the Keywords list to help searchers. ضوابط العالج بالنانو تكنولوجي في ضوء المقاصد والمآالت الشرعية خالد مفتاح المؤلف قطر، الدوحة،وزارة األوقاف والشؤون اإلسالمية المؤسسة ضوابط العالج بالنانو تكنولوجي في ضوء المقاصد والمآالت الشرعية ودرء (المفاسد)؛ لذا أوجبت الشريعة،) ُوضع لجلب (المصالح،)من المعلوم أن (الطب كالشرع .) وع ّدته من (فروض الكفايات،الغراء تع ُّلمه وتعليمه ّ قمة (النوازل الطبية)؛ وبات (الحكم) عليه فرع عن (تصوره)؛ من ّ )وتصدر العالج (بالنانو تكنولوجي خالل معرفة (أساليبه) و(دوافعه) و(أبعاده) ومن ثم (استشراف) المستقبل له؛ وهذا كشف عن .)(مقاصد المكلف وأطرت الشريعة هذا العالج ضمن (منهج تسديدي) (أخالقي) (يحكم) العالقة بين الطبيب ّ .)والمريض؛ بإحكام (الوسائل) بميزان (المقاصد )والعالج بالنانو تكنولوجي دائر بين (حفظ النفس) من جانب (العدم) بمنع األسقام؛ و(حفظ النسل من جانب (الوجود) باإلخصاب؛ و(حفظ العقل) في جانب (العدم) بتأخير أرذل العمر؛ كيفما قلبتها .!)بدأت لك(مقاصد الشارع وذلك يُعد مقدمة للولوج إلى (تحقيق المناط) بأدوات (االجتهاد الترجيحي)؛ تارة و(االجتهاد وبمنهج (مقاصدي) حتى نعلم هل مآل العالج اإلنشائي) تارة؛ وتقنين (ضوابط) بعقلية (أصولية)؛ ٍ بالنانو تكنولوجي دائر بين (اإلعمال) أو (اإلهمال)؛ بين (االجتهاد المآلي) و(االجتهاد في المآل)؟؛ .ونصل إلى ثمرة مفادها هل تحقق (قصد الموافقة) بين (مقاصد المكلف) و(مقاصد الشارع)!؟ )وهذا العمل في منهجه محاولة لـ(تجديد الفهم) من أجل (تجديد العلم) ضمن (رؤية مقاصدية .)في تقعيد أدوات (االجتهاد المعاصر المنشود We invite you to explore the Islamic Medical and Scientific Ethics database at http://bioethics.georgetown.edu/collections/islamic/index.html and are eager for your feedback. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Oral Presentations 178 179 ||179 179 Poster Presentations AHO12 Checks on nanotechnology treatment in the light of Islamic legal purposes and outcomes Author Institution Khalid Muftah Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, Doha, Qatar It is known that medicine, like Islamic Sharia, was designed to bring about benefits and to ward off harm; therefore Islamic Sharia made it obligatory that medicine should be learned and taught, and considered this a collective duty. Treatment using nanotechnology is at the fore of new medical technologies; a ruling on it would thus constitute a part of understanding it, through knowledge of its methods, purposes and dimensions and exploring its future to learn the intentions of those performing it. Islamic Sharia has placed this treatment in the framework of an ethical, objective approach governing the relationship between doctors and patients by employing means of balancing purposes. Nanotechnology treatment revolves around the preservation of the soul from non-existence through disease prevention, the preservation of species with respect to its existence through fertility and the preservation of the mind from nonexistence by delaying the weakness of old age; in whichever way one looks at it, the purposes of Islamic Sharia are there! This serves as an entry point to meeting objectives, using the tools of creative jurisprudence at times and constructive jurisprudence at other times, introducing the legal regulation of checks in the regular manner and using a purpose-based approach. This is so that we know whether the outcome of treatment with nanotechnology revolves around acting or failing to act or between outcome-based jurisprudence or jurisprudence on its outcomes? In this way, we come to a conclusion as to whether a compromise can be been reached between the purposes of those performing the treatment and the purposes of Islamic Sharia? AHP1 How do Qatari females make it to the top? An examination of organizational constraints to their advancement? Author Hend Abdalrahman Al Muftah Institution Qatar University, Doha ,Qatar Although Qatari females have increased their economic participation and reached remarkable educational attainment over the last decade, this success does not run parallel with balanced representation in management positions. Accordingly, this study was initiated with the aim of identifying the main organizational constraints encountered by Qatari females throughout their careers. The study revealed that although Qatari females have made good progress at medium and lower levels of management, they are still very poorly represented in senior management levels. It is also indicated that no discrimination is made against Qatari females in terms of selection and recruiting, working hours, training, and engagement in critical projects and compensation. Specifically, the study found that both gender specific and differences failed to explain the low representation of Qatari females in top managerial positions. However, it was reported that the promotion of Qatari females within organizations is still lagging behind. Gender-specific issues, such as females’ family commitments, were reported as the main constraint to their promotion from the male perspective, whilst gender-differences, such as uncertainty of real increased responsibilities and authority levels, were the main constraints to female promotion from the females’ perspective. In the absence of major organizational discrimination, this study concludes by recommending the greater inclusiveness of Qatari females in decision-making positions. The paper also suggests that greater accountability of organizations to advance females should be considered critically in order to ensure the advancement of Qatari females to the top. Through this approach, this study represents an attempt to renew our understanding in order to invigorate science within an intention-based vision using the preferred tools of contemporary jurisprudence. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Oral Presentations 180 181 ||181 181 AHP2 AHP3 Simulation training for laparoscopic surgery with 3rd and 4th year medical students Authors Institutions Angela Brunstein, Joerg Brunstein, Anam Waheed, Davit Sargsyan, Bakr Nour Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Texas A&M University at Qatar, Doha, Qatar Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar, Doha, Qatar Medical education is characterized by apprenticeship reflected in ‘see one, do one, teach one’. This research investigated effects of practice and individual guidance by a mentor for laparoscopic surgery using a simulation engine. Based on earlier research, we expected that it would take extensive training for self-directed, experience-based learning to compensate for individual, on-time instruction that is typical for medical education. Three groups of 3rd and 4th medical students trained to perform laparoscopic colecystectmy in 5 training sessions of 30 or 60 min. The mentored group received one-to-one individual guidance by a mentor during the complete training. A time-matched control group received exclusively feedback from the simulation engine. An extensive practice group was allotted double the time to compensate for missing guidance. Before and after training, their performance was analyzed for the first case in the system. Mentored students performed better during the pretest than students from both control groups. After training those students performed as well without guidance as during the pretest with guidance. Participants from both control groups improved performance from pre-test to post-test. In addition, students with extensive training performed almost as well as mentored students during the post-test. This implies that feedback provided by the simulation system is good enough for unsupervised students to reach a performance level comparable to mentored students, but it requires double the time for training. Next, we aim to improve the system’s feedback to dramatically reducing training time while reaching the same level of performance. For example, this means to provide in-time warning before committing an error instead of presenting an error message after committing it. This will prevent students from automatizing suboptimal or dangerous routines. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Poster Presentations What are the possibilities for taking up a physically active subject position for young Qatari women? Authors Institutions Kelly Knez, Liza Hunter Aspetar, Qatar Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia Background: Discourses constitute knowledge. They are multiple, contradictory and offer different ways of knowing and being that shift across time and space. Also, they offer ‘subject positions’ that can be taken up or rejected. If taken up, subject positions offer the individual a particular repertoire, a way of seeing and speaking about the world. Analysis of discursive constructions and subject positions of young Qatari women in relation to physical activity offers insights beyond a binary construction of norm and ‘other’. This is particularly important considering that dominant academic understandings of physical activity have been constructed through western systems of knowledge. Purpose: This research explores the multiple subject positions available to young Qatari women constituting themselves as physically active. It challenges western notions of physical activity to introduce new ways of understanding physical activity and young Qatari women and the terrain negotiated in being physically active. Methods: Grounded in feminist post-structuralism, this study employs semistructured interviews with 10 young Qatari women aged 18-25 years. Interviews were transcribed then analyzed using discourse analysis. Results: Young Qatari women negotiate an array of cultural discursive practices including those deeply enshrined within Qatari tradition and culture and the medicalized view of physical activity as something which ‘should’ be done for good health. The ‘physically active’ subject positions available to young Qatari women vary, but tend to be bounded by discursive practices of family, tradition and gender. Conclusion: Opportunities for young Qatari women to constitute themselves as physically active subjects are enabled and constrained by strong discursive practices of family, gender and tradition. Understanding the impact of such practices invites discussion about new possibilities for different positions that capture being young Qatari women as well as being physically active. 182 183 ||183 183 AHP4 AHP4 Towards a national project to plan and build cultural values and Arab personal skills for the 21st century Author Institution Ibrahim Ramadan Al-Deeb Arab Educational Training Center for Gulf States, Doha, Qatar This study answers the following main questions: What system of concepts is related to the strategic planning and building of values? What are the reality, dimensions and outcomes of the conflict of values, and their relationship to identity and society’s potential for growth and advancement? Are we suffering from a crisis in the planning and strategic construction of our values? Do we have a national project for planning and building values and preserving our identity? What are the reasons for the weakness of Arab educational products compared to their Asian and Western counterparts? What moral and educational requirements do people living in the twenty first century have? What are the most important international experiences in the planning and building of values and creating a new generation capable of actively contributing to the development and progress of society and the nation? How can we have a national project for planning and building values and preserving our own identity? Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Poster Presentation نحو مشروع وطني وقومي لتخطيط وبناء القيم الحضارية وإعادة تأهيل االنسانى العربي لعبور القرن الواحد والعشرون إبراهيم رمضان الديب المؤلف قطر، الدوحة،المركز العربي للتدريب التربوي لدول الخليج المؤسسة :يتم في هذا البحث االجابة على االسئلة الكبرى التالية ما هي منظومة المفاهيم المتعلقة بتخطيط وبناء القيم على المستوى االستراتيجي؟ وعالقته بالهوية وقدرةالمجتمع على،ما هي حقيقة وأبعاد ومآالت الصراع القيمى النمو والنهوض؟ هل نعانى أزمة في التخطيط والبناء االستراتيجي للقيم؟ قوميا لتخطيط وبناء القيم والمحافظة على هويتنا؟،هل نمتلك مشروعا وطنيا ما هي أسباب ضعف وهشاشة المنتج التربوى العربي مقارنة بمثيله االسيوى والغربي؟ ما هي االستحقاقات القيمية والتربوية الالزمة إلنسان القرن الواحد والعشرون؟ ما هي أهم التجارب العالمية في مجال تخطيط وبناء القيم وصناعة جيل جديد قادر على المساهمة الفاعلة في تنمية ونهضة مجتمعه وأمته؟ كيف نمتلك مشروعا وطنيا لتخطيط وبناء القيم والمحافظة على هويتنا الخاصة؟ 184 185 ||185 185 AHP5 AHP6 Knowledge-based urban development paradigm: Doha as a model for a knowledge and creative city in the Middle East Author Institution Ali Al Raouf Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Qatar’s future vision, named Qatar 2030, is forecasting an economy based on knowledge and creativity rather than depletable natural carbon resources. Knowledge and creativity are perhaps the most important factors in the future of a city’s economy, and there is a growing interest in the concept of the “knowledge and creative city”. A knowledge and creative city is not just a regular city. It is a growing space of exchange and optimism in which each and everyone can devote themselves to personal and collective projects and aspirations in a climate of dynamism, harmony, and creativity. The main purpose of this research is to explore the ‘knowledge city’ concept in depth. It will discuss the principles of a knowledge city, and portray its distinguishing characteristics and processes. A solid argument will be constructed to illustrate that the concept of knowledge cities is rooted in the urban, cultural structure of traditional Arab cities. Therefore an attempt to foster this concept in today’s Arab/Middle Eastern cities would not be possible by building isolated technological statements scattered around the city. Alternatively, the rise of the network society, global networks, linked cities and the existence of smart communities should construct the basis for shaping Arab Knowledge Cities. A focus on Doha as an emerging knowledge and creative city amid the Middle Eastern cities will be included to examine the main hypothesis of the research. ‘What are the qualities of future cities?’ becomes a crucial question and its answer creates a challenge for architects, urban designers, planners, developers, and decision makers around the world. This research will answer this question by articulating a new matrix for knowledge and creative city formation. Doha will be used as a model for such a new paradigm of knowledge-based urban design and development in the Middle East. The Middle Eastern cities are not only exceptions, but would require major social transformations to join the knowledge economy era. 4D Doha: mapping Qatar’s built environment over time Authors Institution Kelly Hutzell, Rami El Samahy, Kristina Ricco , Spencer Gregson Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar, Doha, Qatar 4D Doha is a both an art installation and a repository of information about Doha’s growth over time. It is the result of a research project undertaken by professors and students of Carnegie Mellon and is funded by Qatar Foundation. This website and installation is led by Kelly Hutzell and Rami el Samahy, with team members Kristina Ricco, Spencer Gregson and Blake Lam. The pace of change in Doha, Qatar over the last sixty years challenges the imagination: new buildings and even new land has been created as the city has grown from a tiny village to one vying for world-class status. Infrastructure projects aim to strengthen the country’s connections to the region and the global economy, while planned mega-scale mixed-use projects will expand the capital city of Doha to more than twice its current size. 4D Doha addresses these transformations by tracing the physical growth of the city across time through an interactive display that allows users to track a variety of changes through different eras, from the pre-oil period of 1947, through the current expansion facilitated by natural gas extraction, followed by the potential for continued diversified economic and physical growth. The project focuses on making spatial what was once only available as two-dimensional information, allowing one to examine the morphology of the buildings, the road network, and landfill additions creating sea ports, airports and causeways. Data has been acquired through a critical urban reading of historical aerial imagery, as well as current Geographic Information Systems (GIS) information. Through British aerial surveys of the country taken periodically from the late 1940’s to early 1980, as well as subsequent aerial views, the project team created a series of twelve historical mappings, tracing the transformation of the city from 1947 to the GIS information for the present day. The two-dimensional urban fabric was then three-dimensionally modeled using Rhinoceros and City Engine software programs. Final processing allows one to access the interface through three distinct portals: view, time and data. These hypermedia maps integrate both narratives and historical images so that one encounters interpretative pathways while exploring the interface. The initial phase of the project is intended to serve as a catalyst to collect and disseminate further content on Qatar’s urban growth. It is the aim that the project be both an educational website, slated to debut in fall 2010, as well as a permanent installation in the Carnegie Mellon Qatar building on Education City’s campus. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Poster Presentation 186 187 ||187 187 AHP7 AHP8 The image of the United States portrayed in Arab world online journalism Author Institution Ashraf Galal Hassan Mohamed Bayoumy Social Development Centre-Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar Research problem: This study is trying to examine to what extent online journalism in the Arab world has adopted biased coverage of the United States. The study hopes to provide a current assessment of how the US is portrayed in Arab world online journalism. This valid, updated information will enable researchers and communicators alike to better understand not only what is being done, but may lead to ways of providing a solid basis for better dealing with American issues and images in the future. Research Hypotheses: • There are differences among web sites (whether biased or not) in image type, covered topics, US image, used evidences, main concentration, ways of distortion, salience, main issue, news values, attraction tools, included figures. • There is a positive correlation between image bias (totally biased, totally objective, somehow objective/biased) and image type (negative, neutral, positive). • There is a correlation between website affiliation (Arab and non-Arab websites) and website bias, US image and image type (negative, neutral, positive) of the United States. • There is a correlation between US image and used appeals, evidence, evidence type and main concentration at the materials. Within-household sampling: searching for a better method conditional on household size information Author Institution Darwish Al Emadi Social and Economic Survey Research Institute, Qatar university, Doha, Qatar Survey research has been used widely in various social sciences. A random selection of a survey respondent at the household level (so called withinhousehold sampling) is critical for any valid statistical inference with the survey data. In this paper, we will review existing sampling methods. Some methods ensure the randomness, but require a lengthy and intrusive process and hence reduce cooperation. Some methods provide a quick and simple sampling at the expense of the randomness. Although household size information is collected in most of these methods, this information is not fully used. The question that these methods try to answer is how to randomly sample a person. In this paper, we argue that the method should be developed not to answer this question but to answer the question about how to randomly sample a person conditional on (or given) the household size. Compared to the current “one size fit all” methods, it is always better to use a method that allows for different ways of sampling for different household sizes. We then develop a sampling method that is conditional on the household size and use it for a survey in Qatar, a country with large household size population, a characteristic which is typical to the Middle East and Developing countries. We will show difficulties when current methods are applied to these countries and how our method can overcome these difficulties. Research Methodology: Eight online news websites were been selected among 14 are considered the most important news websites at the Arab world based on the nomination of some experts in this field. News and editorial materials at the first page and internal topics which had any signs at the front pages were also analyzed. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Poster Presentation 188 189 ||189 189 AHP9 AHP10 The significance of the People Factor in project cost estimates Author Institution Abdulla Hamad Fetais London Metropolitan University, London, UK People and major projects are vitally important to the future of Qatar. The development of methodologies is important to the research community. This study brings together people, megaproject and research methodology by investigating in detail the interactions of people and project management systems at the conceptual cost estimate stage in order to identify implications and improvements. The research problem has a number of distinct dimensions; technical and human aspects operate and interact at the different levels of the individual, project team, organization and society. In addition, external factors, the nature of the project and the approach to project management also impact on the events and interactions involved. The problem situation generates the following objectives; to identify the technical and people factors and issues influencing the preparation and application of conceptual cost estimates, to understand how these factors interact, to ascertain the relative importance of different factors at different levels and to assess the implications for theory and practice of project management. The study will investigate: how conceptual cost estimates are currently produced and used in practice, including estimating techniques and software used; what factors influence their use, in particular factors related to people; how these factors interact and which exert more influence on the process; and finally, the theoretical and practical implications of this study for communities of practice, project management practitioners and academics. A wide-ranging literature review uncovered the complexity of the field. It also highlighted the need for an innovative approach to methodology, involving activity theory at the data collection stage and grounded theory and human factors error analysis as well as activity theory at the data analysis stage in order to identify the strengths and weaknesses of these different analyses in terms of the information they yield. It is argued that in management research, new insights require creative yet academically robust approaches that address multiple dimensions and perspectives of the complex and often ambiguous socio-cultural contexts situations they seek to analyse. The data analysis in this study will view the findings through a variety of theoretical lenses in a novel approach to capturing complexity. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Poster Presentation Road traffic accidents in rich developing countries: the case of the State of Qatar Authors Institution Abdel Magid Hamouda, Khalifa Al Khalifa Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Qatar is a rich developing country, which suffers the consequences of explosions in both human and vehicle population. This has been accompanied by a heavy toll of deaths. Road accidents in Qatar do not only represent an important social problem but also an economic one. There is room for improving traffic safety in Qatar. A comprehensive traffic safety program is urgently needed. In this paper an assessment of the current level of road safety in Doha, Qatar is made utilizing data obtained from secondary sources. The road safety level in Doha is assessed considering four parameters, namely, accident severity index, accident fatality rate, accident fatality risk and accident risk. 190 191 ||191 191 AHP11 AHP12 Cost analysis of road accidents in the State of Qatar Authors Institution Khalifa Al Khalifa, Hamouda Abdel Magid Qatar University, Doha, Qatar Road accidents generally receive less public attention than other types of transport-related accidents. This could be due to the importance placed on road safety by a country or society. In some societies, road accidents are accepted as fate. These societies fail to understand that road accidents are preventable and result in significant losses of resources. One way of bringing the importance of road safety to the attention of governments and societies is to show the real cost of accidents. There are two main uses for estimate of crash costs in developing countries. First, an estimate of total annual costs of traffic crashes can be used for resource allocation at a national level to ensure road safety is given due recognition. Second, estimates of unit crash costs by injury severity can be used to ensure that best use is made of any investment, through economic appraisal. In evaluating the safety measures through cost benefit analysis, policy makers require a reliable monetary estimate of the benefits of reduced occurrences of crashes. The study reported in this paper is, to the authors’ knowledge, the first ever attempt to estimate the socio-economics costs of accidents in the State of Qatar. Accident data and cost figures of the years 2005, 2006 and 2007 are considered to make the estimation of annual accident cost of Qatar. عام الرمادة:دور القيادة الراشدة في إدارة األزمة سلوى المال المؤلف قطر، الدوحة،ديوان المحاسبة – قطر المؤسسة :سعت هذه الدراسة لإلجابة على سؤال رئيسي هو موضوع المشكلة البحثية وهو ما هي الدروس المستفادة من خبرة الخليفة عمر بن الخطاب () كنموذج للقيادة والحكم الراشد :في إدارة أزمة المجاعة؟ ويتفرع عنه األسئلة التالية ما هو دور القيادة في إدارة األزمة؟:أولهـا ما هي سمات الدور الذي لعبه الخليفة عمر بن الخطاب في إدارة أزمة عامة الرمادة؟:وثانيها تناول الفصل،تم تقسيم الدراسة إلى أربعة فصول ومقدمة وخاتمة ّ ،ولإلجابة على تلك األسئلة األول مفهوم إدارة األزمة والفصل الثاني مفهوم القيادة والفصل الثالث مفهوم الحكم الراشد ،وفي الفصل الرابع تمت معالجة إدارة أزمة عام الرمادة ونموذج الحكم الراشد لعمر بن الخطاب تمت االستعانة بثالثة مداخل.وألقى الضوء على الدور القيادي لدولة قطر ومجتمعها المدني . ومدخل مقاصد الشريعة اإلسالمية ومنهج المقارنة، التأصيل النظري للمفاهيم:منهجية هي وأن مفهوم الحكم، تأكيد أهمية الدور السياسي للقيادة:انتهت الدراسة إلى نتائج أهمها .الراشد كشف عنه نموذج بن الخطاب في التضحية والمسؤولية This paper aims to review accident costing methodologies which are applied in developed and developing countries. Various methods exist for costing of road accidents and the method used in this current study is the gross output (or human capital) approach. This method takes into account the loss of resources such as vehicle damage, medical treatment, police and administration cost, and damage to street furniture. It also takes into account the cost of pain and suffering of the victim and to those who care for the victim. When properly incorporated in safety project evaluation, the findings of this study should help promote investment in road safety. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Poster Presentation 192 193 ||193 193 AHP12 The Role of Enlightened Leadership in Crisis Management: The Year of Famine Author Institution Salwa Al Mulla Audit Bureau - Qatar, Doha, Qatar This study attempts to answer a key question which is the subject matter of this research problem: what are the lessons learned from the experience of the Caliph Omar Ibn al-Khattab as a model for enlightened leadership and good governance in the management of a famine crisis? The question is further subdivided into the following questions: 1: What is the role of leaders in crisis management? 2: What are the characteristics of the role played by the Caliph Omar Ibn al-Khattab in managing the crisis in the Year of Famine? To answer these questions, the study was divided into four chapters, an introduction and a conclusion. Chapter 1 - discusses the concept of crisis management, Chapter 2 - the concept of leadership, Chapter 3 - the concept of good governance while Chapter 4 addresses the management of the crisis in the Year of Famine and the model of good governance of Caliph Omar ibn al-Khattab, and highlights the leading role of the State of Qatar and its civil society. Three methodological approaches were used: theoretical grounding of concepts, the purposes of Islamic Sharia and a comparative approach. The study reached a number of conclusions, the most important of which are the emphasis on the importance of the political role of leadership, and that the concept of good governance was shown in the model of the Caliph ibn al-Khattab through sacrifice and responsibility. Arts, Social Sciences, Humanities and Islamic Studies | Poster Presentation 194 195 ||195 195
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