Qatar Foundation Annual Research Forum Volume 2012 Issue 1

Introduction and Background: The date palm is a critical tree to Arabian Gulf agriculture, history and culture. Dates are a major source of nutrition in the region, and the tree itself plays an important role in the development of sustainable agriculture in many drought and saline-affected regions of the world. Date palm development presents a challenge, however, as the tree is a dioecious species, that is, individual plants are either male or female and are indistinguishable during the first 5-8 years, until flowering begins. We recently identified a region of the date palm genome linked to gender, which showed that the date palm employs an XY system of gender inheritance similar to that of humans. Methods and Technology: As part of a development plan we recently released a draft sequence of the date palm genome (Khalas female). In our findings, we identified sequence variations on four contigs that were strongly linked to gender and validated them in a large pedigree. We identified an additional 20 contigs with some evidence of linkage to gender. Validation of new gender-linked contigs will help in the fine-mapping of a possible single mutation, which results in gender determination in date palm. To validate linkage we have amplified the DNA of 7 male and 7 female date palm samples using 20 specifically designed primers. The PCR products obtained are sequenced by Sanger's sequencing. The sequenced regions from these contigs are from a diverse set of male and female date palms. We are studying these sequences and regions to identify a possible specific mutation or other gene content difference that determines plant gender. Result: We have confirmed linkage in many of the contigs, and these provide a set of genes within the "degraded" male sequence which may offer clues to how gender is determined biochemically and developmentally in date palm. Conclusion: There may be many more additional contigs which we are investigating to aid in the mapping of more variations and mutations, which correspond to different traits and features in the date palm, particularly dealing with gender.

Heterointerfaces between metal oxides show substantial promise as components for future materials in energy application. Heterointerfaces exhibit unique properties that do not exist in the corresponding bulk parent compounds. In their bulk phase, SrTiO3 and LaAlO3 are non-magnetic wide bandgap insulators, but when they are assembled to make superlattices (LaAlO3/SrTiO3) they exhibit very interesting properties like high Tc superconductivity, magnetism, ferroelectricity and colossal magnetoresistance. This behavior can be explained and enhanced through theoretical investigation such as electronic structure calculations. Electronic structure calculations on bulk metal oxides using screened hybrid functionals gained a lot of popularity in the last few years due to their high accuracy and computational efficiency. In this work, we use the most effective screened hybrid functional derived from our previous studies to compute the structural and electronic properties of bulk SrTiO3, LaAlO3 and LATiO3 and the LaAlO3/SrTiO3 superlattices. We will show how our calculations have performed exceptionally well, allowing us to assess how phase transition defects and doping affect the electronic properties of these materials.

Background & Objectives With the aim to become the Gas-to-Liquid (GTL) capital of the world, Qatar has put great effort into the research of adopting GTL fuel to replace conventional petroleum-derived fuel in current aircraft engines. One of the crucial aspects is the elastomer compatibility issue, as it is believed that GTL fuel may cause seals to shrink or no longer provide an effective sealing due to the lack of aromatics. The purpose of this project, funded by Qatar Science and Technology Park (QSTP), is to investigate the effects of GTL fuel components on O-rings made from various materials. Methods Stress relaxation test is employed for the purpose using the Elastocon Relaxation Tester. Three O-ring materials were tested, namely nitrile, fluorosilicone, and fluorocarbon. N-decane and ShellSol T solvent were chosen to represent normal and iso-paraffins respectively, as they are the main components of GTL fuel. Decalin, a cycloparaffin is included to form a triangle with the other two as previous research indicated cycloparaffin may have the potential to promote seal swelling. 25 blends were prepared with various proportions of the three solvents. Results The results indicated that both fluorosilicone and fluorocarbon O-rings showed excellent compatibility with all 25 blends tested. The stress relaxation characteristic of nitrile O-ring was highly dependent on the composition of the solvents; the more decalin (n-decane) is in the blend, the better (worse) its sealing performance becomes. Effects of the three solvents presented in the tests indicated aromatics are not the only compounds that can swell nitrile O-ring. N-decane also showed certain O-ring swelling ability but its main effect during the polymer-fuel interaction process is to extract materials out of nitrile O-ring. Iso-paraffins do not participate in the O-ring swelling process but only extract polymer materials; however its extraction ability is relatively weaker than n-decane. Conclusions Fluorosilicone and fluorocarbon O-rings are fully compatible with GTL fuel, while nitrile material may shrink when exposed to it. Decalin is capable to swell nitrile O-ring; however, the proportion of decalin in the solvent has to be no less than 60% to be comparable to Jet A-1.

Background & Objectives: Renewable energy generation systems are highly sensitive to climate. For example, clouds have a significant influence on solar power generation systems. They in turn are impacted by atmospheric aerosols which act as cloud condensation nuclei. Aerosols are both directly emitted from anthropogenic (e.g., power plants, transportation systems, industrial facilities) and natural sources (e.g., windblown dust, sea salt, forest fires), and form in the atmosphere. They can either inhibit or promote cloud formation, and/or precipitation, and thus are likely to play a significant role in altering the hydrological cycle, and perhaps electricity generation from hydroelectric, solar, and wind power systems. Integration of renewable energy systems within existing power generation infrastructure systems remains a challenging task as well. The objective of this study is to use cutting-edge satellite imaging technology and observations and coupled models to identify atmospheric variables and processes that impact solar power generation systems in Qatar and the Middle East. Methods: We will employ data from the Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) in situ measurements, Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite, and the Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) scanner. We will also assess the potential impact of future changes in atmospheric composition, clouds, and radiation on solar power generation systems. For this purpose, we will employ version 5.0 of the Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) modeling system, and the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. Results: The research will provide a set of model and satellite-based maps showing the spatial and temporal distribution of aerosols over the region, potentially assisting analysis aimed at identifying sites for solar power generation systems in Qatar. Conclusions: The research project will help establish the knowledge infrastructure that relies on computational science and space technology to ensure that Qatar continues on the path of economic prosperity through effective integration of emerging technologies with existing infrastructure.

Background and Objectives: The down hole application environment is highly corrosive due to the presence of hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide in brines. To handle this environment, special materials with a high resistance to pitting corrosion and a high capability of repassivation are used such as steels containing molybdenum, chromium and nickel. The cost of the metallic constituents in these alloys can preclude their use in some applications. The objective of this study is to provide cheaper materials withstanding these conditions. The materials developed in this study are high interstitial stainless steels (HISS) with high nitrogen and carbon content. Methods: Several studies showed that the addition of nitrogen and carbon in stainless steels enhance their pitting corrosion resistance, increase their critical pitting temperature and also increase their repassivation rates. In order to develop high nitrogen and carbon content stainless steels we employed the air-casting techniques developed by the Colorado School Mines. In these techniques, the nitrogen is added to the melt using nitrogen-bearing additives (nitrided manganese). In this case, the nitrided manganese is placed in cavities in the mold, and melts when the liquid metal enters the mold. In order to characterize the chemical and mechanical properties of the HISS several tests were performed. The XRF and the EDX techniques were used to determine the chemical composition. The microstructure was observed using an inverted optical microscope and a scanning electron microscope. The corrosion resistance to 3.5% sodium chloride solution was studied using weight loss and electrochemical tests. The corrosion tests under sour environment will be performed as soon as the sour gas research laboratory will be constructed. The hardness of the HISS was measured using the Rockwell hardness test. Results: Preliminary investigations show that the microstructure of the developed materials contain nitrites and carbides which have a bad effect on the pitting corrosion. This problem can be solved by applying the adequate heat treatments. These results also show that the developed stainless steels are harder than nickel-molybdenum.

Background: Application of photovoltaic (PV) modules as a source of electrical power in an explosive atmosphere needs thorough evaluation in fire hazard perspectives. Surface temperature above 85°C can become a source of ignition in an explosive atmosphere in a hydrocarbon industry. PV modules fire safety aspects are well defined with classifications based on voltage levels and access by human etc., through the IEC 61730, ANSI/UL 790 standards. However, evaluation of safety based on application specifics is not covered in design standards. Hot spot heating phenomena occurring in PV modules, caused by faulty conditions such as partial shading, material imperfection, fabrication flaws, damages etc., are the result of reverse biasing of cells which can lead to a localized p-n junction breakdown. Hot spots due to partial shading or illumination distribution imbalances causes localized heating wherein the temperature can rise in the range of ~150-200°C. Also, the intensity of the temperature rise can reach up to 300°C when hot spots occur due to a crack or damage of a cell. Autoignition temperatures (AIT) of many of the flammable, explosive substances fall within this temperature range. Objectives: The main objective of this research is to study and evaluate the suitability of PV module applications in an explosive atmosphere with fire safety perspectives through empirical research design. Methods: It is not practically possible to predict the actual fault conditions occurring in PV modules and therefore the worst case conditions are the testing criteria. Shaded and flawed cells are developed to test the worst case conditions. Results & Conclusions: Reverse bias characteristics of PV cells vary based on their shunt resistance. Cells can have either high shunt resistance where the reverse performance is voltage-limited or low shunt resistance where the reverse performance is current-limited. Current research test results published indicate that the PV modules applied in explosive atmospheres can lead to fire hazards even protected through bypass diodes and encapsulation due to unpredictable failure of PV cells.

A comparative study will be conducted on the presence of bacterial infection and hormonal imbalance in camel (Camelus dromedarius), which precipitates to infertility incongruent with extreme summer heat under field conditions. Parameters are as follows; confinement, feeds consumed, uterine swab, detectable heat cycle, and weight and age of 50 female animal samples. The trial period timetable is 90 days between May and August. Data collected is summarized with blinding and randomization trial design. Maintenance of trial treatment randomization codes and procedures were kept in the electronic record data.

Background: Underground piping systems have a large variety of applications ranging from oil, gas and petrochemical industries to water distribution networks. Presence of defects, particularly cracks, in underground pipes may severely undermine structural stability and makes restoration of the shell's structural integrity inevitable. Replacement of the damaged sections of the pipeline as the most direct restoration approach is costly, hard to execute due to difficulty in physically accessing the damaged sections, and often leads to prolonged interruption in the service. In light of these difficulties, alternative approaches have been proposed in recent years for retrofitting the damaged thin-walled structures by engagement between an inserted, expandable liner and the existing pipe (e.g. Underground Solutions' Duraliner™). Objective: The objective of this project is to examine the stability of the repaired pipelines and to provide a more in-depth understanding of the validity and practicality of the relining process materials and techniques and their limitations. We explored the instability of a cracked thin shell cylinder reinforced with an elastic liner subjected to pure axial compression and also combined axial compression and internal pressure. Method: Finite element models of cracked cylindrical shells with elastic liners for various crack lengths and orientations were developed using a special meshing scheme to accurately capture the crack tip stress intensity. Eigenvalue buckling analysis was used to assess the critical loading and buckling modes. Results: Through our extensive parametric studies, we studied the correlations between buckling response and reinforcement parameters such as the relative thickness and stiffness of the liner and shell layers and damage parameters such as crack size and orientation. Conclusions: While elastic reinforcement significantly improves buckling characteristics of the structure compared to the unreinforced case, there is significant differences in buckling behavior depending on crack size, orientation and the material properties of the shell structure and liner. We find that internal pressure may stabilize against local buckling by suppression at the lower internal pressure zones or, may precipitate local buckling of the reinforced cylindrical shells due to stress concentration at higher internal pressure zones depending upon the elastic and geometric properties of the structure.

Background and Objective: Today, nanotechnology is being used by many industries and universities to develop new, safe manufacturing procedures for nanostructures, polymeric nanocomposites, polymer photonic components and devices, and other revolutionary biomedical devices and systems with nanoscale functions. Nanotechnological innovations are the key to the safe application of these procedures in science and engineering. Our goal in this study is to minimize the human health risks associated with emergent products and the replacement of existing, harmful products with non-toxic nanomaterials and non-destructive nanodevices. Methods: We propose the use nanofabrication techniques, along with production of new nanomaterials, as a potential avenue to enhance the two fastest growing fields of science and industry, biomedical research and renewable energy. An example of nano- applications in connection with these two very different scientific fields is the use of photon production techniques. We use photon production techniques to harvest energy capable of enhancing solar energy grids, enhancing nanochemical material's ability to absorb heat in nuclear reactors, and to stimulate nanorobotic labeled nanoparticles to kill cancer cells. These photons are produced from two mean light sources--the sun's rays (UV) and lasers. Result: In this study, our data clearly shows the effect of photons on labeled nanomaterials on the surface of nanorobotic devices and shows the ability of these devices to locate and differentiate cancer cells from healthy cells. Parallel to these studies, we are still in the process of collecting data in relation to photons' effect on nanomaterials and their ability to manipulate nanoparticles, allowing for safe energy production in nuclear power reactors. These same photons also have the ability to augment nanomaterials on solar grids, enhancing solar energy production. Conclusion: Data analysis shows that advances in nanotechnology methodologies will play a critical role in achieving greater environmental gains in renewable energy, including safer, more efficient nuclear energy production. Methods of photon applications on nanostructures in biomedical research can be adapted to similar interactions between photons and nanoparticles, leading to the evolution of current energy production processes.

Mangroves are evergreen trees that grow along the coastal areas of Qatar. The largest and oldest area of mangroves can be found around Al-Thakhira and Al-Khor. Other mangrove areas originate from fairly recent plantings by the government, although unfortunately the picturesque mangrove lake in Al-Wakra has now been uprooted. Avicinnia marina is the predominant mangrove species found in the region. Mangroves protect and stabilize low lying coastal land and provide protection and food sources for estuarine and coastal fishery food chains. They also serve as feeding, breeding and nursery grounds for a variety of fish, crustaceans, reptiles, birds and other wildlife. A total of 21 individuals of A. marina, representing seven diverse natural and artificial populations, were sampled throughout its range in Qatar. Leaves from 2-3 randomly selected trees at each location were collected. The locations were as follows: Al-Rawis, Ras-Madpak, Fuwairt, Summaseima, Al-khour, AL-Mafjar and Zekreet. Total genomic DNA was extracted using commercial DNeasy Plant System (Qiagen, Inc., Valencia, CA) kit. To be used for genetic diversity analysis. A total of 12 (Inter-Simple Sequence Repeat) ISSR primers were used to amplify DNA fragments using genomic DNA. The 12 ISSR primers amplified polymorphic bands among mangrove samples in different areas as well as within each area, indicating the existance of variation within each area and among the different areas of mangrove in Qatar. The results could characterize Avicennia marina populations existing in different areas of Qatar and establish DNA fingerprint documentations for mangrove population to be used in further studies. Moreover, existence of genetic variation within and among Avicennia marina populations is a strong indication of the ability of such populations to adapt different environmental conditions in Qatar. This study could be a warning to save mangrove in Qatar and save the environment as well.