Abstract: Traditional higher-education classrooms allow lecturers to observe students- behaviours and responses to a particular pedagogy during learning in a way that can influence changes to the pedagogical approach. Within current e-learning systems it is difficult to perform continuous analysis of the cohort-s behavioural tendency, making real-time pedagogical decisions difficult. This paper presents a Virtual Learning Process Environment (VLPE) based on the Business Process Management (BPM) conceptual framework. Within the VLPE, course designers can model various education pedagogies in the form of learning process workflows using an intuitive flow diagram interface. These diagrams are used to visually track the learning progresses of a cohort of students. This helps assess the effectiveness of the chosen pedagogy, providing the information required to improve course design. A case scenario of a cohort of students is presented and quantitative statistical analysis of their learning process performance is gathered and displayed in realtime using dashboards.
Abstract: This study has investigated the antidiabetic and
antioxidant potential of Pseudovaria macrophylla bark extract on
streptozotocin–nicotinamide induced type 2 diabetic rats. LCMSQTOF
and NMR experiments were done to determine the chemical
composition in the methanolic bark extract. For in vivo experiments,
the STZ (60 mg/kg/b.w, 15 min after 120 mg/kg/1 nicotinamide, i.p.)
induced diabetic rats were treated with methanolic extract of
Pseuduvaria macrophylla (200 and 400 mg/kg·bw) and
glibenclamide (2.5 mg/kg) as positive control respectively.
Biochemical parameters were assayed in the blood samples of all
groups of rats. The pro-inflammatory cytokines, antioxidant status
and plasma transforming growth factor βeta-1 (TGF-β1) were
evaluated. The histological study of the pancreas was examined and
its expression level of insulin was observed by
immunohistochemistry. In addition, the expression of glucose
transporters (GLUT 1, 2 and 4) were assessed in pancreas tissue by
western blot analysis. The outcomes of the study displayed that the
bark methanol extract of Pseuduvaria macrophylla has potentially
normalized the elevated blood glucose levels and improved serum
insulin and C-peptide levels with significant increase in the
antioxidant enzyme, reduced glutathione (GSH) and decrease in the
level of lipid peroxidation (LPO). Additionally, the extract has
markedly decreased the levels of serum pro-inflammatory cytokines
and transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1). Histopathology
analysis demonstrated that Pseuduvaria macrophylla has the
potential to protect the pancreas of diabetic rats against peroxidation
damage by downregulating oxidative stress and elevated
hyperglycaemia. Furthermore, the expression of insulin protein,
GLUT-1, GLUT-2 and GLUT-4 in pancreatic cells was enhanced.
The findings of this study support the anti-diabetic claims of
Pseudovaria macrophylla bark.
Abstract: This paper describes a three-dimensional thermal
model of the current path included in the low voltage power circuit
breakers. The model can be used to analyse the thermal behaviour of
the current path during both steady-state and transient conditions.
The current path lengthwise temperature distribution and timecurrent
characteristic of the terminal connections of the power circuit
breaker have been obtained. The influence of the electric current and
voltage drop on main electric contact of the circuit breaker has been
investigated. To validate the three-dimensional thermal model, some
experimental tests have been done. There is a good correlation
between experimental and simulation results.
Abstract: This paper reports on the influence of surface-treated coarse recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) on developing the compressive strength of concrete. The coarse RCA was initially treated by separately impregnating it in calcium metasilicate (CM) or wollastonite and nanosilica (NS) prepared at various concentrations. The effects of both treatment materials on concrete properties (e.g., slump, density and compressive strength) were evaluated. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis was performed to examine the microstructure of the resulting concrete. Results show that the effective use of treated coarse RCA significantly enhances the compressive strength of concrete. This result is supported by the SEM analysis, which indicates the formation of a dense interface between the treated coarse RCA and the cement matrix. Coarse RCA impregnated in CM solution results in better concrete strength than NS, and the optimum concentration of CM solution recommended for treated coarse RCA is 10%.
Abstract: The special and unique advantages of explosive
forming, has developed its use in different industries. Considering the
important influence of improving the current explosive forming
techniques on increasing the efficiency and control over the
explosive forming procedure, the effects of air and water as the
energy-conveying medium, and also their differences will be
illustrated in this paper. Hence, a large number of explosive forming
tests have been conducted on two sizes of thin walled cylindrical
shells by using air and water as the working medium. Comparative
diagrams of the maximum radial deflection of work-pieces of the
same size, as a function of the scaled distance, show that for the
points with the same values of scaled distance, the maximum radial
deformation caused by the under water explosive loading is 4 to 5
times more than the deflection of the shells under explosive forming,
while using air. Results of this experimental research have also been
compared with other studies which show that using water as the
energy conveying media increases the efficiency up to 4.8 times. The
effect of the media on failure modes of the shells, and the necking
mechanism of the walls of the specimens, while being explosively
loaded, are also discussed in this issue. Measuring the tested
specimens shows that, the increase in the internal volume has been
accompanied by necking of the walls, which finally results in the
radial rupture of the structure.
Abstract: A road pricing game is a game where various stakeholders and/or regions with different (and usually conflicting) objectives compete for toll setting in a given transportation network to satisfy their individual objectives. We investigate some classical game theoretical solution concepts for the road pricing game. We establish results for the road pricing game so that stakeholders and/or regions playing such a game will beforehand know what is obtainable. This will save time and argument, and above all, get rid of the feelings of unfairness among the competing actors and road users. Among the classical solution concepts we investigate is Nash equilibrium. In particular, we show that no pure Nash equilibrium exists among the actors, and further illustrate that even “mixed Nash equilibrium" may not be achievable in the road pricing game. The paper also demonstrates the type of coalitions that are not only reachable, but also stable and profitable for the actors involved.
Abstract: Due to today-s turbulent environment, manufacturing resources, particularly in assembly, must be reconfigured frequently. These reconfigurations are caused by various, partly cyclic, influencing factors. Hence, it is important to evaluate the innovation ability - the capability of resources to implement innovations quickly and efficiently without large expense - of manufacturing resources. For this purpose, a new methodology is presented in this article. Within the methodology, design structure matrices and graph theory are used. The results of the methodology include different indices to evaluate the innovation ability of the manufacturing resources. Due to the cyclicity of the influencing factors, the methodology can be used to synchronize the realization of adaptations.
Abstract: The purpose of this article is to analyze the
degree of concentration in the banking market in EU member
states as well as to determine the impact of the length of EU
membership on the degree of concentration. In that sense
several analysis were conducted, specifically, panel analysis,
calculation of correlation coefficient and regression analysis of
the impact of the length of EU membership on the degree of
concentration. Panel analysis was conducted to determine
whether there is a similar trend of concentration in three
groups of countries - countries with a low, moderate and high
level of concentration. The conducted panel analysis showed
that in EU countries with a moderate level of concentration,
the level of concentration decreases. The calculation of
correlation showed that, to some extent, with other influential
factors, the length of EU membership negatively affects the
market concentration of the banking market. Using the
regression analysis for investigation of the influence of the
length of EU membership on the level of concentration in the
banking sector in a particular country, the results reveal that
there is a negative effect of the length in EU membership on
market concentration, although it is not significantly influential
variable.
Abstract: The presence of a vertical fatigue crack in the web of
a plate girder subjected to pure bending influences the bending
moment capacity of the girder. The growth of the crack may lead to
premature elastic failure due to flange local yielding, flange local
buckling, or web local buckling. Approximate expressions for the
bending moment capacities corresponding to these failure modes
were formulated. Finite element analyses were then used to validate
the expressions. The expressions were employed to assess the effects
of crack length on the capacity. Neglecting brittle fracture, tension
buckling, and ductile failure modes, it was found that typical girders
are governed by the capacity associated with flange local yielding as
influenced by the crack. Concluding, a possible use of the capacity
expressions in girder design was demonstrated.
Abstract: In this paper, an inventory model with finite and
constant replenishment rate, price dependant demand rate, time
value of money and inflation, finite time horizon, lead time and
exponential deterioration rate and with the objective of maximizing
the present worth of the total system profit is developed. Using a
dynamic programming based solution algorithm, the optimal
sequence of the cycles can be found and also different optimal
selling prices, optimal order quantities and optimal maximum
inventories can be obtained for the cycles with unequal lengths,
which have never been done before for this model. Also, a
numerical example is used to show accuracy of the solution
procedure.
Abstract: Earthquakes produce some of the most violent loading
situations that a structure can be subjected to and if a structure fails
under these loads then inevitably human life is put at risk. One of the
most common methods by which a structure fails under seismic
loading is at the connection of structural elements. The research
presented in this paper investigates the interlock systems as a novel
method for building structures. The main objective of this
experimental study wasto determine the dynamic characteristics and
the seismic behaviour of the proposed structures compared to
conventional structural systemsduring seismic motions. Results of
this study indicate that the interlock mechanism of the panels
influences the behaviour of lateral load-resisting systems of the
structures during earthquakes, contributing to better structural
flexibility and easier maintenance.
Abstract: In recent years application of natural antimicrobials
instead of conventional ones, due to their hazardous effects on health,
has got serious attentions. On the basis of the results of different
studies, chitosan, a natural bio-degradable and non-toxic
biopolysaccharide derived from chitin, has potential to be used as a
natural antimicrobial. Chitosan has exhibited high antimicrobial
activity against a wide variety of pathogenic and spoilage
microorganisms, including fungi, and Gram-positive and Gramnegative
bacteria. The antimicrobial action is influenced by intrinsic
factors such as the type of chitosan, the degree of chitosan
polymerization and extrinsic factors such as the microbial organism,
the environmental conditions and presence of the other components.
The use of chitosan in food systems should be based on sufficient
knowledge of the complex mechanisms of its antimicrobial mode of
action. In this article we review a number of studies on the
investigation of chitosan antimicrobial properties and application of
them in culture and food mediums.
Abstract: Fast development of technologies, economic globalization and many other external circumstances stimulate company’s competitiveness. One of the major trends in today’s business is the shift to the exploitation of the Internet and electronic environment for entrepreneurial needs. Latest researches confirm that e-environment provides a range of possibilities and opportunities for companies, especially for micro-, small- and medium-sized companies, which have limited resources. The usage of e-tools raises the effectiveness and the profitability of an organization, as well as its competitiveness.
In the electronic market, as in the classic one, there are factors, such as globalization, development of new technology, price sensitive consumers, Internet, new distribution and communication channels that influence entrepreneurship. As a result of eenvironment development, e-commerce and e-marketing grow as well.
Objective of the paper: To describe and identify factors influencing company’s competitiveness in e-environment.
Research methodology: The authors employ well-established quantitative and qualitative methods of research: grouping, analysis, statistics method, factor analysis in SPSS 20 environment, etc. The theoretical and methodological background of the research is formed by using scientific researches and publications, such as that from mass media and professional literature; statistical information from legal institutions as well as information collected by the authors during the surveying process.
Research result: The authors detected and classified factors influencing competitiveness in e-environment.
In this paper, the authors presented their findings based on theoretical, scientific, and field research. Authors have conducted a research on e-environment utilization among Latvian enterprises.
Abstract: This study aims to examine the factors affecting
knowledge sharing behavior in knowledge-based electronic communities (e-communities) because quantity and quality of
knowledge shared among the members play a critical role in the community-s sustainability. Past research has suggested three
perspectives that may affect the quantity and quality of knowledge
shared: economics, social psychology, and social ecology. In this
study, we strongly believe that an economic perspective may be suitable to validate factors influencing newly registered members-
knowledge contribution at the beginning of relationship development.
Accordingly, this study proposes a model to validate the factors influencing members- knowledge sharing based on Transaction Cost
Theory. By doing so, we may empirically test our hypotheses in various types of e-communities to determine the generalizability of our research models.
Abstract: Subcritical water extraction was investigated as a
novel and alternative technology in the food and pharmaceutical
industry for the separation of Mannitol from olive leaves and its
results was compared with those of Soxhlet extraction. The effects of
temperature, pressure, and flow rate of water and also momentum
and mass transfer dimensionless variables such as Reynolds and
Peclet Numbers on extraction yield and equilibrium partition
coefficient were investigated. The 30-110 bars, 60-150°C, and flow
rates of 0.2-2 mL/min were the water operating conditions. The
results revealed that the highest Mannitol yield was obtained at
100°C and 50 bars. However, extraction of Mannitol was not
influenced by the variations of flow rate. The mathematical modeling
of experimental measurements was also investigated and the model is
capable of predicting the experimental measurements very well. In
addition, the results indicated higher extraction yield for the
subcritical water extraction in contrast to Soxhlet method.
Abstract: Dual bell nozzle is a promising one among the altitude
adaptation nozzle concepts, which offer increased nozzle
performance in rocket engines. Its advantage is the simplicity it offers
due to the absence of any additional mechanical device or movable
parts. Hence it offers reliability along with improved nozzle
performance as demanded by future launch vehicles. Among other
issues, the flow transition to the extension nozzle of a dual bell
nozzle is one of the major issues being studied in the development of
dual bell nozzle. A parameter named over-expansion factor, which
controls the value of the wall inflection angle, has been reported to
have substantial influence in this transition process. This paper
studies, through CFD and cold flow experiments, the effect of overexpansion
factor on flow transition in dual bell nozzles.
Abstract: From the beginning of creation, human being has ever
fought against the ecosystem by changes has made in environment.
The most environmental changes on the nature have been done after
starting the concentrated life in the same region. Dams are one of the
most important buildings in water resources and transferring. These
buildings have been made from old times without access to
hydrological, hydraulically, hydro mechanical information. Dams
have positive and negative effects on environment. Constructing a
dam relatively causes equal ecological consequences. According to
different criteria, environmental effects of dams can lead short term
and long term damages. These effects may influence on the situation
and treatment of meteorology, biology, culture, ancient works, etc
and severely causes to change and complicate it. So considering
importance of positive effects of dam construction, it is necessary to
minimize negative environmental effects of dams to achieve a stable
development. In this article the considered effects and their solutions
in influencing on assessment of destructive environmental effects of
dams construction have been surveyed and presented.
Abstract: the purpose of this research is to identify and clarify
factors which have positive effect among user satisfaction and their
social networking through websites. The examined factors in this
research are; innovation, ease of use, trustworthy and customer
support which are defined as satisfaction factors. To obtain reliable
research approaches and to have better result in this research four
hypothesizes used to test. This hypothesis testing has been done by
correlation, regression and test of normality by using “SPSS16" also
the data which was analyzed by this software. this data was gathered
from prepaid questionnaire.
Abstract: In this paper we present the modeling, design, and
experimental testing of a nerve cuff multi-electrode system for
diameter-selective vagus nerve stimulation.
The multi-electrode system contained ninety-nine platinum
electrodes embedded within a self-curling spiral silicone sheet. The
electrodes were organized in a matrix having nine parallel groups,
each containing eleven electrodes.
Preliminary testing of the nerve cuff was performed in an isolated
segment of a swinish left cervical vagus nerve. For selective vagus
nerve stimulation, precisely defined current quasitrapezoidal,
asymmetric and biphasic stimulating pulses were applied to
preselected locations along the left vagus segment via appointed
group of three electrodes within the cuff. Selective stimulation was
obtained by anodal block. However, these pulses may not be safe for
a long-term application because of a frequently used high imbalance
between the cathodic and anodic part of the stimulating pulse.
Preliminary results show that the cuff was capable of exciting A
and B-fibres, and, that for a certain range of parameters used in
stimulating pulses, the contribution of A-fibres to the CAP was
slightly reduced and the contribution of B-fibres was slightly larger.
Results also showed that measured CAPs are not greatly
influenced by the imbalance between a charge Qc injected in cathodic
and Qa in anodic phase of quasitrapezoidal, asymmetric and biphasic
pulses.
Abstract: The main objective of this study was to demonstrate that differentiation of infected and vaccinated animals (DIVA) strategy using different ELISA tests is possible when a subunit vaccine (Haemagglutinin protein) is used to prevent Avian influenza. Special emphasis was placed on the differentiation in the serological response to different components of the AIV (Nucleoprotein, Neuraminidase, Haemagglutinin, Nucleocapsid) between chickens that were vaccinated with a whole virus kill vaccine and recombinant vaccine. Furthermore, the potential use of this DIVA strategy using ELISA assays to detect Neuraminidase 1 (N1) was analyzed as strategy in countries where the field virus is H5N1 and the vaccine used is formulated with H5N2. Detection of AIV-s antibodies to any component in serum was negative for all animals on the study days 0-13. At study day 14 the titers of antibodies against Nucleoprotein (NP) and Nucleocapsid (NC) rose in the experimental groups vaccinated with Volvac® AI KV and were negatives during all the trial in the experimental groups vaccinated with a subunit H5; significant statistically differences were observed between these groups (p < 0.05). The seroconversion either Haemagglutinin or Neuraminidase was evident after 21 days post-vaccination in the experimental groups vaccinated with the respective viral fraction. Regarding the main aim of this study and according with the results that were obtained, use a combination of different ELISA test as a DIVA strategy is feasible when the vaccination is carry out with a subunit H5 vaccine. Also is possible to use the ELISA kit to detect Neuraminidase (either N1 or N2) as a DIVA concept in countries where H5N1 is present and the vaccination programs are done with H5N2 vaccine.