In this study, a novel constellation algorithm for application in Discrete Multi Tone (DMT) modulation is presented. As the signal space diagram obtained is similar to snail, we have called the resulting modulation scheme as Snail Shift Keying (SSK), whose major property is its non-symmetric configuration where demands of subscribers can be prioritized conveniently. Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) and SSK, with the same power, have been applied to the DMT system with AWGN channels. Compared to a well-known QAM modulation scheme, based on the simulation results, the constellation algorithm presented has an improved Bit Error Rate (BER) performance with the same complexity in implementation.

This study aims at investigating the relationship between eating attitudes and body image dissatisfaction. Among the female students of psychology from Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz, during 2008, 140 students were selected through random sampling. This research was conducted in a field work fashion using the Eating Attitudes Test (EAT) and the Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ). The data collected were analyzed using correlational statistics. Results suggested that there is a significant positive correlation between the eating attitudes and body image dissatisfaction. Thus, students who are overly dissatisfied with their body shape are at a higher risk for an eating disorder.

This study was designed to compare achievement goal orientations of gifted and nongifted students. The 512 students in secondary school, including 262 nongifted students and 250 gifted students, responded to the achievement goal questionnaire. Analysis indicated that nongifted students scored significantly higher than gifted students on mastery goal orientation (F (1, 464) = 30.69, p<0.0001). Within groups analysis showed gifted students, as well as nongifted students more significantly use of performance-approach goals than mastery and performance-avoidance goals. Results are discussed with respect to general theoretical implications and context of Iranian educational system.

This research summarizes a study that was performed on the construction industry in Iraq related to the use of Project Management Software (PMS), its applicability and acceptance in the execution of today’s constructed projects. The data were collected from project management professionals that yielded 31% response. The major findings concerning software use over time, reasons for use/nonuse PMS, analytical technique usage and software development are described. The results indicate that construction professionals have different characteristics, needs and preferences. The study shows that construction professionals are more experienced and educated, they tend to work on fewer projects with larger numbers of activities and they are more likely to use Primavera Project Plan (P3) than Microsoft Project. Construction respondents revealed in heavy users of critical path analysis for planning and control, resource scheduling for planning and earned value analysis for control. The number of activities in a typical project and the use of software for all active projects were the key determinants of the usage of specific analytical techniques. These factors are also significant determinants of the types of information entered and updated, although the effect is weaker. To maximize the impact on practice, development of new planning and control methods should include their integration into project management software. In Iraq, substantial efforts have been made in order to enhance the efficiency of software usage in construction industry.

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of fiber type and content on the rutting performance of stone matrix asphalt mixtures. In this research two types, cellulose fibers (made in Iran and Germany) and mineral fibers (rock wool) with various percentages (0.1-0.5%) of the total weight of the Stone Matrix Asphalt (SMA) mixture were used and after determining optimal bitumen content for each fiber percentage, we examined their effect on SMA bulk specific gravity, Void in Mineral Aggregate (VMA), void content, Marshall stability, Indirect Tensile Strength (ITS) and flow parameters. Also results of dynamic creep test were used as an indicator of rutting performance of SMA specimens. Results of the laboratory tests showed that variation of fiber type and content can lead to considerable changes in rutting performance of SMA. Specimens made with 3% cellulose-GER (made in Germany) has resulted to highest value of ITS and least permanent deformations. Also with considerations of potential rutting, optimum percentage for each fiber type has been concluded.