United Arab Emirates University

About: United Arab Emirates University is a education organization based out in Al Ain, United Arab Emirates. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Diabetes mellitus. The organization has 6227 authors who have published 14170 publications receiving 321143 citations. The organization is also known as: University of the United Arab Emirates & UAEU.

Characterization of treated date palm tree fiber as composite reinforcement

Abstract: Recently, great interest was paid to new technologies dealing with environmental aspect. Preservation of natural resources such as natural fibers forced the composite industry to search and examine “eco-friendly” components. Studies to find alternative reinforcements and resin systems that are environmentally friendly while providing the same performance as their synthetic counterparts are in continuous progress. The aim of this study is to investigate effect of different treatment process on the data palm fiber (DPF). Raw DPF underwent different surface modification methods such as alkali treatment with concentrations 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2.5% and 5%, and acid treatment with 0.3, 0.9 and 1.6 N. All treatments were performed at 100 °C for 1 h. The surface morphology, thermal gravimetry analysis (TGA), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), mechanical properties and chemical analysis, of treated DPF were investigated. Specimen treated with 1% NaOH showed optimum mechanical properties. Hydrochloric acid treatment resulted in deterioration in mechanical properties.

An empirical investigation of student acceptance of course websites

Abstract: The World Wide Web (WWW) is the future in teaching and learning. This paper uses the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) constructs of usefulness and ease of use to assess university students' acceptance of course websites as an effective learning tool. A survey instrument was distributed to 450 undergraduate students and a total of 403 usable responses were obtained. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were implemented using structural equation modeling techniques through LISREL version 8.52. A structural equation model was used to fit and validate the Course Website Acceptance Model (CWAM) and the results indicated good fit to the data. Course website usefulness and ease of use proved to be key determinants of the acceptance and usage of course website as an effective and efficient learning technology. The causal relationships between the constructs considered by the CWAM were well supported, accounting for 83% of the total variance in the course website acceptance and usage.