Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) machine technology--based on computer programs that dictate the movement of cutting tools--is behind the mass production of countless parts in a range of items we use every day. Found in anything from car engines to medical equipment, these parts must be cut to a certain measure in order for their system to function. The field of CNC manufacturing has evolved much over the years but has until now lacked real-time checking of the tools so that each duplicated part is cut exactly to computer program specifications. Dr. Hussien Zughaer, of the College of the North Atlantic-Qatar and his research partner Dr. Ghassan Al Kindi of Sohar University in Oman, have developed a way to give CNC machines eyes so operators can see exactly when tools are worn or surfaces are out of range. Dr. Zughaer explains the team's research and expresses thanks to QNRF for the support he and his students have received.

Interview with Dr. Hussien Zughaer, CNA-Q

Dr. Tam Truong Donnelly, associate professor at the University of Calgary-Qatar, and members of her research team--Dr. Jassim Al Suwaidi, Senior Consultant Cardiologist and Director of Hamad Cardiology Research Department at Hamad Medical Corporation, and Zeinab Idris, a research associate from the University of Calgary--discuss a groundbreaking study on the perceptions of health among Qatari women. Their study, funded by a QNRF Undergraduate Research Experience Program award, was published in QScience.com's open access health care journal Avicenna and can be downloaded here:http://www.qscience.com/doi/abs/10.5339/avi.2011.3.

Assessing The Health and Related Perspectives of Qatari Women

This QNRF Newsletter podcast features a discussion with Andrea Masini, Associate Professor at HEC Paris in Qatar, who is heading a project to explore policy around renewable energy investments. He joins Sam Aflaki, Assistant Professor at HEC Paris, to conduct this first-of-its-kind study into policy and regulations at the behavioral level. The work aims to uncover mechanisms at play in policy development that might be reviewed to foster a more favorable environment for investment into renewable energy by government as well as private entities. He said this work could shed light on an issue faced by governments worldwide.