Abstract: Evolutionary Algorithms (EAs) have been used
widely through evolution theory to discover acceptable solutions that
corresponds to challenges such as natural resources management.
EAs are also used to solve varied problems in the real world. EAs
have been rapidly identified for its ease in handling multiple
objective problems. Reservoir operations is a vital and researchable
area which has been studied in the last few decades due to the limited
nature of water resources that is found mostly in the semi-arid
regions of the world. The state of some developing economy that
depends on electricity for overall development through hydropower
production, a renewable form of energy, is appalling due to water
scarcity. This paper presents a review of the applications of
evolutionary algorithms to reservoir operation for hydropower
production. This review includes the discussion on areas such as
genetic algorithm, differential evolution, and reservoir operation. It
also identified the research gaps discovered in these areas. The results
of this study will be an eye opener for researchers and decision
makers to think deeply of the adverse effect of water scarcity and
drought towards economic development of a nation. Hence, it
becomes imperative to identify evolutionary algorithms that can
address this issue which can hamper effective hydropower
generation.
Abstract: The last two decades witnessed a movement towards
harmonization of international financial reporting standards (IFRS)
throughout the global economy. This investigation seeks to identify
the factors that could explain the adoption of IFRS by poor
jurisdictions. While there has been a considerable amount of
literature published on the effects and key drivers of IFRS adoption
in both developed and developing countries, little attention has been
paid to jurisdictions with less developed capital markets and low
income levels exclusively. Drawing upon the Institutional Isomorphism theory and analyzing
a sample of 45 poor jurisdictions between 2008 and 2013, the study
empirically shows that poor jurisdictions are driven by legitimacy
concerns rather than by economic reasoning to adopt an international
accounting perspective. This in turn has implications for the IASB, as
it should seek to influence institutional pressures within a particular
jurisdiction in order to promote IFRS adoption.
Abstract: In this paper, we will try to demonstrate the
importance of the project approach in the urban to deal with
uncertainty, the importance of the involvement of all stakeholders in
the urban project process and that the absence of an actor can lead to
project failure but also the importance of the urban project
management. These points are handled through the following questions: Does
the urban adhere to the theory of complexity? Does the project
approach bring hope and solution to make urban planning
"sustainable"? How converging visions of actors for the same
project? Is the management of urban project the solution to support
the urban project approach?
Abstract: The present study examined how translation teachers
develop final tests as measures for checking on the quality of
students’ academic translation in Iranian context. To achieve this
goal, thirty experienced male and female translation teachers from the
four types of the universities offering the program were invited to an
in-depth 30-minute one-session semi-structured interview. The
responses provided showed how much discrepancy exists among the
Iranian translation teachers (as developers of final translation tests),
who are least informed with the current translation evaluation
methods. It was also revealed that the criteria they use for developing
such tests and scoring student translations are not theory-driven but
are highly subjective, mainly based on their personal experience and
intuition. Hence, the quality and accountability of such tests are under
serious question. The results also confirmed that the dominant
method commonly and currently practiced is the purely essay-type
format. To remedy the situation, some suggestions are in order. As
part of the solution, to improve the reliability and validity of such
tests, the present summative, product-oriented evaluation should be
accompanied with some formative, process-oriented methods of
evaluation. Training the teachers and helping them get acquainted
with modern principles of translation evaluation as well as the
existing models, and rating scales does improve the quality of
academic translation evaluation.
Abstract: In this paper, we present an optimization technique or
a learning algorithm using the hybrid architecture by combining the
most popular sequence recognition models such as Recurrent Neural
Networks (RNNs) and Hidden Markov models (HMMs). In order to
improve the sequence/pattern recognition/classification performance
by applying a hybrid/neural symbolic approach, a gradient descent
learning algorithm is developed using the Real Time Recurrent
Learning of Recurrent Neural Network for processing the knowledge
represented in trained Hidden Markov Models. The developed hybrid
algorithm is implemented on automata theory as a sample test beds
and the performance of the designed algorithm is demonstrated and
evaluated on learning the deterministic finite state automata.
Abstract: The aim of optimization of store management is not
only designing the situation of store management itself including its
equipment, technology and operation. In optimization of store
management we need to consider also synchronizing of
technological, transport, store and service operations throughout the
whole process of logistic chain in such a way that a natural flow of
material from provider to consumer will be achieved the shortest
possible way, in the shortest possible time in requested quality and
quantity and with minimum costs. The paper deals with the
application of the queuing theory for optimization of warehouse
processes. The first part refers to common information about the
problematic of warehousing and using mathematical methods for
logistics chains optimization. The second part refers to preparing a
model of a warehouse within queuing theory. The conclusion of the
paper includes two examples of using queuing theory in praxis.
Abstract: In order to be capable of dealing with uncertainties,
subjectivities, including vagueness arising in building construction
projects, the application of fuzzy reasoning technique based on fuzzy
set theory is proposed. This study contributes significantly to the
development of a fuzzy reasoning safety risk assessment model for
building construction projects that could be employed to assess the
risk magnitude of each hazardous event identified during
construction, and a third parameter of probability of consequence is
incorporated in the model. By using the proposed safety risk analysis
methodology, more reliable and less ambiguities, which provide the
safety risk management project team for decision-making purposes.
Abstract: A mixed method for model order reduction is
presented in this paper. The denominator polynomial is derived by
matching both Markov parameters and time moments, whereas
numerator polynomial derivation and error minimization is done
using Genetic Algorithm. The efficiency of the proposed method can
be investigated in terms of closeness of the response of reduced order
model with respect to that of higher order original model and a
comparison of the integral square error as well.
Abstract: Optimizing the parameters in the controller plays a
vital role in the control theory and its applications. Optimizing the
PID parameters is finding out the best value from the feasible
solutions. Finding the optimal value is an optimization problem.
Inverted Pendulum is a very good platform for control engineers to
verify and apply different logics in the field of control theory. It is
necessary to find an optimization technique for the controller to tune
the values automatically in order to minimize the error within the
given bounds. In this paper, the algorithmic concepts of Harmony
search (HS) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) have been analyzed for the
given range of values. The experimental results show that HS
performs well than GA.
Abstract: The research explores the relationship between
management responsibility and corporate governance of listed
companies in Kazakhstan. This research employs firm level data of
selected listed non-financial firms and firm level data “operational”
financial sector, consisted from banking sector, insurance companies
and accumulated pension funds using multivariate regression analysis
under fixed effect model approach. Ownership structure includes
institutional ownership, managerial ownership and private investor’s
ownership. Management responsibility of the firm is expressed by the
decision of the firm on amount of leverage. Results of the cross
sectional panel study for non-financial firms showed that only
institutional shareholding is significantly negatively correlated with
debt to equity ratio. Findings from “operational” financial sector
show that leverage is significantly affected only by the CEO/Chair
duality and the size of financial institutions, and insignificantly
affected by ownership structure. Also, the findings show, that there is
a significant negative relationship between profitability and the debt
to equity ratio for non-financial firms, which is consistent with
pecking order theory. Generally, the found results suggest that
corporate governance and a management responsibility play
important role in corporate performance of listed firms in
Kazakhstan.
Abstract: In the present study we have investigated axial
buckling characteristics of nanocomposite beams reinforced by
single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Various types of beam
theories including Euler-Bernoulli beam theory, Timoshenko beam
theory and Reddy beam theory were used to analyze the buckling
behavior of carbon nanotube-reinforced composite beams.
Generalized differential quadrature (GDQ) method was utilized to
discretize the governing differential equations along with four
commonly used boundary conditions. The material properties of the
nanocomposite beams were obtained using molecular dynamic (MD)
simulation corresponding to both short-(10,10) SWCNT and long-
(10,10) SWCNT composites which were embedded by amorphous
polyethylene matrix. Then the results obtained directly from MD
simulations were matched with those calculated by the mixture rule
to extract appropriate values of carbon nanotube efficiency
parameters accounting for the scale-dependent material properties.
The selected numerical results were presented to indicate the
influences of nanotube volume fractions and end supports on the
critical axial buckling loads of nanocomposite beams relevant to
long- and short-nanotube composites.
Abstract: This paper studies a mathematical model based on the
integral equations for dynamic analyzes numerical investigations of a
non-uniform or multi-material composite beam. The beam is
subjected to a sub-tangential follower force and elastic foundation.
The boundary conditions are represented by generalized
parameterized fixations by the linear and rotary springs. A
mathematical formula based on Euler-Bernoulli beam theory is
presented for beams with variable cross-sections. The non-uniform
section introduces non-uniformity in the rigidity and inertia of beams
and consequently, more complicated equilibrium who governs the
equation. Using the boundary element method and radial basis
functions, the equation of motion is reduced to an algebro-differential
system related to internal and boundary unknowns. A generalized
formula for the deflection, the slope, the moment and the shear force
are presented. The free vibration of non-uniform loaded beams is
formulated in a compact matrix form and all needed matrices are
explicitly given. The dynamic stability analysis of slender beam is
illustrated numerically based on the coalescence criterion. A realistic
case related to an industrial chimney is investigated.
Abstract: This paper describes a sliding mode controller for
autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). The dynamic of AUV
model is highly nonlinear because of many factors, such as
hydrodynamic drag, damping, and lift forces, Coriolis and centripetal
forces, gravity and buoyancy forces, as well as forces from thruster.
To address these difficulties, a nonlinear sliding mode controller is
designed to approximate the nonlinear dynamics of AUV and
improve trajectory tracking. Moreover, the proposed controller can
profoundly attenuate the effects of uncertainties and external
disturbances in the closed-loop system. Using the Lyapunov theory
the boundedness of AUV tracking errors and the stability of the
proposed control system are also guaranteed. Numerical simulation
studies of an AUV are included to illustrate the effectiveness of the
presented approach.
Abstract: This paper addresses the issue of resource allocation
in the emerging cognitive technology. Focusing the Quality of
Service (QoS) of Primary Users (PU), a novel method is proposed for
the resource allocation of Secondary Users (SU). In this paper, we
propose the unique Utility Function in the game theoretic model of
Cognitive Radio which can be maximized to increase the capacity of
the Cognitive Radio Network (CRN) and to minimize the
interference scenario. Utility function is formulated to cater the need
of PUs by observing Signal to Noise ratio. Existence of Nash
Equilibrium for the postulated game is established.
Abstract: The paper aims to evaluate the effect of online
advertising on consumer purchase behavior in Malaysian
organizations. The paper has potential to extend and refine theory. A
survey was distributed among Students of UTM university during the
winter 2014 and 160 responses were collected. Regression analysis
was used to test the hypothesized relationships of the model. Result
shows that the predictors (cost saving factor, convenience factor and
customized product or services) have positive impact on intention to
continue seeking online advertising.
Abstract: This paper presents a speed estimation scheme based
on second-order sliding-mode Super Twisting Algorithm (STA) and
Model Reference Adaptive System (MRAS) estimation theory for
Sensorless control of multiphase induction machine. A stator current
observer is designed based on the STA, which is utilized to take the
place of the reference voltage model of the standard MRAS
algorithm. The observer is insensitive to the variation of rotor
resistance and magnetizing inductance when the states arrive at the
sliding mode. Derivatives of rotor flux are obtained and designed as
the state of MRAS, thus eliminating the integration. Compared with
the first-order sliding-mode speed estimator, the proposed scheme
makes full use of the auxiliary sliding-mode surface, thus alleviating
the chattering behavior without increasing the complexity. Simulation
results show the robustness and effectiveness of the proposed
scheme.
Abstract: Structural analysis of flexible pavements has been and still is currently performed using multi-layer elastic theory. However, for thinly surfaced pavements subjected to low to medium volumes of traffics, the importance of non-linear stress-strain behavior of unbound granular materials (UGM) requires the use of more sophisticated numerical models for structural design and performance of such pavements. In the present work, nonlinear unbound aggregates constitutive model is implemented within an axisymmetric finite element code developed to simulate the nonlinear behavior of pavement structures including two local aggregates of different mineralogical nature, typically used in Algerian pavements. The performance of the mechanical model is examined about its capability of representing adequately, under various conditions, the granular material non-linearity in pavement analysis. In addition, deflection data collected by Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) are incorporated into the analysis in order to assess the sensitivity of critical pavement design criteria and pavement design life to the constitutive model. Finally, conclusions of engineering significance are formulated.
Abstract: This paper contributes to the ongoing debate as to the relevance of translation studies to professional practitioners. It exposes the various misconceptions permeating the links between theory and practice in the translation landscape in the Arab World. It is a thesis of this paper that specialization in translation should be redefined; taking account of the fact, that specialized knowledge alone is neither crucial nor sufficient in technical translation. It should be tested against the readability of the translated text, the appropriateness of its style and the usability of its content by endusers to carry out their intended tasks. The paper also proposes a preliminary model to establish a working link between theory and practice from the perspective of professional trainers and practitioners, calling for the latter to participate in the production of knowledge in a systematic fashion. While this proposal is driven by a rather intuitive conviction, a research line is needed to specify the methodological moves to establish the mediation strategies that would relate the components in the model of knowledge transfer proposed in this paper.
Abstract: The study focused on the analysis of the Adjusted
Rorschach Comprehensive System’s responses. The objective of this
study is to analyse the participants’ response rate of the Adjusted
Rorschach Comprehensive System with regards to critical
psychology approach. The use of critical psychology theory in this
study was crucial because it responds to the current inadequate
western theory or practice in the field of psychology. The study
adopted a qualitative approach and a case study design. The study
was grounded on interpretivist paradigm. The sample size comprised
six learners (three boys and three girls, aged of 14 years) from
historically disadvantaged school in the Western Cape, South Africa.
The Adjusted Rorschach Comprehensive System (ARCS)
administration procedure, biographical information, semi-structured
interviews, and observation were used to collect data. Data was
analysed using thematic framework. The study found out that, factors
that increased the response rates during the administration of ARCS
were, language, seating arrangement, drawing, viewing, and
describing. The study recommended that, psychological test
designers take into consideration the philosophy or worldviews of the
local people for whom the test is designed to minimize low response
rates.
Abstract: In this paper, synchronization of multiple chaotic
semiconductor lasers is achieved by appealing to complex system
theory. In particular, we consider dynamical networks composed by
semiconductor laser, as interconnected nodes, where the interaction
in the networks are defined by coupling the first state of each node.
An interest case is synchronized with master-slave configuration in
star topology. Nodes of these networks are modeled for the laser and
simulate by Matlab. These results are applicable to private
communication.