Abstract: The asynchronous discussion forum is one of the most
widely used activities in learning management system environment.
Online forum allows participants to interact, construct knowledge,
and can be used to complement face to face sessions in blended
learning courses. However, to what extent do the students perceive
the benefits or advantages of forum remain to be seen. Through
content and social network analyses, instructors will be able to gauge
the students’ engagement and knowledge construction level. Thus,
this study aims to analyze the students’ level of knowledge
construction and their participation level that occur through online
discussion. It also attempts to investigate the relationship between the
level of knowledge construction and their social interaction patterns.
The sample involves 23 students undertaking a master course in one
public university in Malaysia. The asynchronous discussion forum
was conducted for three weeks as part of the course requirement. The
finding indicates that the level of knowledge construction is quite
low. Also, the density value of 0.11 indicating the overall
communication among the participants in the forum is low. This
study reveals that strong and significant correlations between SNA
measures (in-degree centrality, out-degree centrality) and level of
knowledge construction. Thus, allocating these active students in
different group aids the interactive discussion takes place. Finally,
based upon the findings, some recommendations to increase students’
level of knowledge construction and also for further research are
proposed.
Abstract: Lately, asynchronous discussion forum is integrated in
higher educational institutions as it may increase learning process,
learners’ understanding, achievement and knowledge construction.
The asynchronous discussion forum is used to complement the
traditional, face-to-face learning session in hybrid learning courses.
However, studies have proven that students’ engagement in online
forums is still unconvincing. Thus, the aim of this study is to
investigate the motivating factors and obstacles that affect the
learners’ engagement in asynchronous discussion forum. This study
is carried out in one of the public higher educational institutions in
Malaysia with 18 postgraduate students as samples. The authors have
developed a 40-items questionnaire based on literature review. The
results indicate several factors that have encouraged or limited
students’ engagement in asynchronous discussion forum: (a) the
practices or behaviors of peers, or instructors, (b) the needs for the
discussions, (c) the learners’ personalities, (d) constraints in
continuing the discussion forum, (e) lack of ideas, (f) the level of
thoughts, (g) the level of knowledge construction, (h) technical
problems, (i) time constraints and (j) misunderstanding. This study
suggests some recommendations to increase the students’
engagement in online forums. Finally, based upon the findings, some
implications are proposed for further research.
Abstract: Off-site construction methods have played an
important role in the construction sector in the past few decades. It is
increasingly becoming a major alternative technique and strategic
direction compared to traditional in-situ method. It produces a
significant amount of value for the construction industry and the
economy more generally. To date, an impressive number of studies
have been lunched on the perceived perception of off-site
construction. However, it seems that a quantifying benefit on the
offsite construction area is lacking. Therefore, this paper examines
the recent research literature on the benefits of off- site construction
and provides future direction. In the beginning, this paper provides a
brief history and current value of the off-site construction followed
by a detailed discussion on the benefit of off-site construction. These
benefits include but not limited to time saving, quality improvement,
relieving skills shortages, cost reduction and productivity
improvement. Toward this end, off-site construction should learn
from other productive industry similar to services or manufacturing
industry by applying operational management tools and techniques
with extensive focus on employee empowerment will shed the light
on future uptake of Off-site construction. This study is of value in
providing scholars have a clear picture of perceived benefit of off-site
construction research and give an opportunities for future uptake of
off-site method.
Abstract: Life Cycle Cost (LCC) is one of the goals and key
pillars of the construction management science because it comprises
many of the functions and processes necessary, which assist
organisations and agencies to achieve their goals. It has therefore
become important to design and control assets during their whole life
cycle, from the design and planning phase through to disposal phase.
LCCA is aimed to improve the decision making system in the
ownership of assets by taking into account all the cost elements
including to the asset throughout its life.
Current application of LCC approach is impractical during
misunderstanding of the advantages of LCC. This main objective of
this research is to show a different relationship between capital cost
and long-term running costs. One hundred and thirty eight actual
building projects in United Kingdom (UK) were used in order to
achieve and measure the above-mentioned objective of the study. The
result shown that LCC is one of the most significant tools should be
considered on the decision making process.
Abstract: This experimental study aims at studying the
conversion of macro-algae into bioethanol under several steps of
procedure: preparation, pre-treatment, fermentation, and distillation.
The main objective of this work was to investigate the role of buffer’s
type as a stabiliser of pH level and fermentation time on the yield of
ethanol. For this purpose, experiments were carried out on biomass
macro-algae to de-couple the pre-treatment and fermentation
processes from those associated with distillation process. β-
glucosidase was used as cellulose decomposer during hydrolysis step
and yeast was used during fermentation process. The species of
macro-algae utilised as energy feedstock was Ulva lactuca and it was
harvested from southern coast of Central of Java Island – Indonesia.
Experiments were conducted in a simple fermenter over a different
buffer: citrate buffer and acetic buffer, and over a range of
fermentation times between 5 to 20 days. The ethanol production was
found to be significantly affected by both variables. The optimum
time of fermentation was 10 days with citrate buffer; result in
0.88458% of ethanol, and the ethanol content after distillation
process was shown 0.985015%.
Abstract: Cloud service brokering is a new service paradigm that
provides interoperability and portability of application across multiple
Cloud providers. In this paper, we designed Cloud service brokerage
system, anyBroker, supporting integrated service provisioning and
SLA based service lifecycle management. For the system design, we
introduce the system concept and whole architecture, details of main
components and use cases of primary operations in the system. These
features ease the Cloud service provider and customer’s concern and
support new Cloud service open market to increase Cloud service
profit and prompt Cloud service echo system in Cloud computing
related area.
Abstract: Most quality models have defined usability as a
significant factor that leads to improving product acceptability,
increasing user satisfaction, improving product reliability, and also
financially benefitting companies. Usability is also the best factor that
balances both the technical and human aspects of a software product,
which is an important aspect in defining quality during software
development process. A usability risk consist risk factors that could
impact the usability of a software product thereby contributing to
negative user experiences and causing a possible software product
failure. Hence, it is important to mitigate and reduce usability risks in
the software development process itself. By managing possible
usability risks in software development process, failure of software
product could be reduced. Therefore, this research uses the Delphi
method to identify mitigation plans for reducing potential usability
risks. The Delphi method is conducted with seven experts from the
field of risk management and software development.
Abstract: The cooling channels of injection mould play a crucial
role in determining the productivity of moulding process and the
product quality. It’s not a simple task to design high quality cooling
channels. In this paper, an intelligent cooling channels design system
including automatic layout of cooling channels, interference checking
and assembly of accessories is studied. Automatic layout of cooling
channels using genetic algorithm is analyzed. Through integrating
experience criteria of designing cooling channels, considering the
factors such as the mould temperature and interference checking, the
automatic layout of cooling channels is implemented. The method of
checking interference based on distance constraint algorithm and the
function of automatic and continuous assembly of accessories are
developed and integrated into the system. Case studies demonstrate the
feasibility and practicality of the intelligent design system.
Abstract: There are several methods to monitor software
projects and the objective for monitoring is to ensure that the
software projects are developed and delivered successfully. A
performance measurement is a method that is closely associated with
monitoring and it can be scrutinized by looking at two important
attributes which are efficiency and effectiveness both of which are
factors that are important for the success of a software project.
Consequently, a successful steering is achieved by monitoring and
controlling a software project via the performance measurement
criteria and metrics. Hence, this paper is aimed at identifying the
performance measurement criteria and the metrics for monitoring the
performance of a software project by using the Goal Question
Metrics (GQM) approach. The GQM approach is utilized to ensure
that the identified metrics are reliable and useful. These identified
metrics are useful guidelines for project managers to monitor the
performance of their software projects.
Abstract: In our paper we describe the security capabilities of
data collection. Data are collected with probes located in the near and
distant surroundings of the company. Considering the numerous
obstacles e.g. forests, hills, urban areas, the data collection is realized
in several ways. The collection of data uses connection via wireless
communication, LAN network, GSM network and in certain areas
data are collected by using vehicles. In order to ensure the connection
to the server most of the probes have ability to communicate in
several ways. Collected data are archived and subsequently used in
supervisory applications.
To ensure the collection of the required data, it is necessary to
propose algorithms that will allow the probes to select suitable
communication channel.
Abstract: This article describes the information system for
measuring and evaluating the dose rate in the environment of nuclear
power plants Mochovce and Bohunice in Slovakia.
The article presents the results achieved in the implementation of
the EU project – Research of monitoring and evaluation of nonstandard
conditions in the area of nuclear power plants. The
objectives included improving the system of acquisition, measuring
and evaluating data with mobile and autonomous units applying new
knowledge from research.
The article provides basic and specific features of the system and
compared to the previous version of the system, also new functions.
Abstract: In the present study, we have synthesized Cr and Fe
doped zinc oxide (ZnO) nanostructures (Zn1-δCraFebO; where δ = a +
b = 20%, a = 5, 6, 8 & 10% and b = 15, 14, 12 & 10%) via sol-gel
method at different doping concentrations. The synthesized samples
were characterized for structural properties by X-ray diffractrometer
and field emission scanning electron microscope and the optical
properties were carried out through photoluminescence and UVvisible
spectroscopy. The particle size calculated through field
emission scanning electron microscope varies from 41 to 96 nm for
the samples synthesized at different doping concentrations. The
optical band gaps calculated through UV-visible spectroscopy are
found to be decreasing from 3.27 to 3.02 eV as the doping
concentration of Cr increases and Fe decreases.
Abstract: Climate change will affect various aspects of
hydrological cycle such as rainfall. A change in rainfall will affect
flood magnitude and frequency in future which will affect the design
and operation of hydraulic structures. In this paper, trends in subhourly,
sub-daily, and daily extreme rainfall events from 18 rainfall
stations located in Tasmania, Australia are examined. Two nonparametric
tests (Mann-Kendall and Spearman’s Rho) are applied to
detect trends at 10%, 5%, and 1% significance levels. Sub-hourly (6,
12, 18, and 30 minutes) annual maximum rainfall events have been
found to experience statistically significant upward trends at 10%
level of significance. However, sub-daily durations (1 hour, 3 and 12
hours) exhibit decreasing trends and no trends exists for longer
duration rainfall events (e.g. 24 and 72 hours). Some of the durations
(e.g. 6 minutes and 6 hours) show similar results (with upward
trends) for both the tests. For 12, 18, 60 minutes and 3 hours
durations both the tests show similar downward trends. This finding
has important implication for Tasmania in the design of urban
infrastructure where shorter duration rainfall events are more relevant
for smaller urban catchments such as parking lots, roof catchments
and smaller sub-divisions.
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to trace the historical
development of the accounting profession in Libya, in order to
identify challenges facing the profession as the country moves from a
closed to emerging economy. The study is based on a literature
review and archival research. Accounting information has a vital role
to play in the achievement of economic goals in developing and
emerging economies, but a well qualified accounting profession is
required. In the context of institutional instability and unique cultural
factors, the accounting profession in Libya faces educational and
legal challenges if it is to achieve its potential in assisting the country
to reach its economic goals. This study focuses on one country,
which does limit its generalisability. However, it also suggests
fruitful research areas in considering the impact and challenge of
historic factors on the accounting profession in emerging economies.
Centrally planned economies require a body of well trained
professional accountants if they are to emerge onto the global
economic arena. Studies on the accounting profession have focused
primarily on those in developed economies, where the need for
meaningful accounting information for decision making is taken for
granted and there is a well trained, professional workforce. This study
of the profession in an emerging economy highlights the efforts that
will be needed to ensure the contribution of the profession to the
economic wellbeing of other emerging economies.
Abstract: Multiwall carbon nanotubes, prepared by chemical
vapor deposition, have an average diameter of 60-100 nm as shown
by High Resolution Transmittance Electron Microscope, HR-TEM.
The Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were further
characterized using X-ray Diffraction and Raman Spectroscopy.
Mercury uptake capacity of MWCNTs was studied using batch
adsorption method at different concentration ranges up to 150 ppm.
Mercury concentration (before and after the treatment) was measured
using cold vapor atomic absorption spectroscopy. The effect of time,
concentration, pH and adsorbent dose were studied. MWCNT were
found to perform complete absorption in the sub-ppm concentrations
(parts per billion levels) while for high concentrations, the adsorption
efficiency was 92% at the optimum conditions; 0.1 g of the adsorbent
at 150 ppm mercury (II) solution. The adsorption of mercury on
MWCNTs was found to follow the Freundlich adsorption isotherm
and the pseudo-second order kinetic model.
Abstract: The phased-array ultrasound transducer types are
utilities for medical ultrasonography as well as optical imaging.
However, their discontinuity characteristic limits the applications due
to the artifacts contaminated into the reconstructed images. Because
of the effects of the ultrasound pressure field pattern to the echo
ultrasonic waves as well as the optical modulated signal, the side
lobes of the focused ultrasound beam induced by discontinuity of the
phased-array ultrasound transducer might the reason of the artifacts.
In this paper, a simple method in approach of numerical simulation
was used to investigate the limitation of discontinuity of the elements
in phased-array ultrasound transducer and their effects to the
ultrasound pressure field. Take into account the change of ultrasound
pressure field patterns in the conditions of variation of the pitches
between elements of the phased-array ultrasound transducer, the
appropriated parameters for phased-array ultrasound transducer
design were asserted quantitatively.
Abstract: The purpose of this project is to carry out an analysis
and determine the profile of actual lean manufacturing processes in
the Metropolitan Area of Bucaramanga. Through the analysis of
qualitative and quantitative variables it was possible to establish how
these manufacturers develop production practices that ensure their
competitiveness and productivity in the market.
In this study, a random sample of metallurgic and wrought iron
companies was applied, following which a quantitative focus and
analysis was used to formulate a qualitative methodology for
measuring the level of lean manufacturing procedures in the industry.
A qualitative evaluation was also carried out through a multivariate
analysis using the Numerical Taxonomy System (NTSYS) program
which should allow for the determination of Lean Manufacturing
profiles.
Through the results it was possible to observe how the companies
in the sector are doing with respect to Lean Manufacturing Practices,
as well as identify the level of management that these companies
practice with respect to this topic. In addition, it was possible to
ascertain that there is no one dominant profile in the sector when it
comes to Lean Manufacturing.
It was established that the companies in the metallurgic and
wrought iron industry show low levels of Lean Manufacturing
implementation. Each one carries out diverse actions that are
insufficient to consolidate a sectoral strategy for developing a
competitive advantage which enables them to tie together a
production strategy.
Abstract: The aim of present study was to monitor the presence
of Trichodina sp. in Rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss collected
from various fish farms in the western provinces of Iran during
January, 2013- January, 2014. Out of 675 sampled fish 335, (49.16%)
were infested with Trichodina. The highest prevalence was observed
in the spring and winter followed by autumn and summer. In general,
the intensity of infection was low except in cases where outbreaks of
Trichodiniasis endangered the survival of fish in some ponds. In light
infestation Trichodina is usually present on gills, fins and skin of
apparently healthy fish. Clinical signs of Trichodiniasis only appear
on fish with heavy infections and cases of moderate ones that are
usually exposed to one or more stress factors including, rough
handling during transportation from ponds, overcrowdness,
malnutrition, high of free ammonia and low of oxygen concentration.
Clinical signs of Trichodiniasis in sampled fish were sluggish
movement, loss of appetite, black coloration, necrosis and ulcer on
different parts of the body, detached scales and excessive
accumulation of mucous in gill pouches. The most obvious
histopathological changes in diseased fish were sloughing of the
epidermal layer, aggregation of leucocytes and melanine-carrying
cells (between the dermis and hypodermis) and proliferative changes
including hyperplasia and hypertrophy of the epithelial lining cells of
gill filaments which resulted in fusion of secondary lamellae. Control
of Trichodiniasis, has been achieved by formalin bath treatment at a
concentration of 250 ppm for one hour.
Abstract: Bone properties and response behavior after static or
dynamic activation (loading) are still interesting topics in many fields
of the science especially in the biomechanical problems such as bone
loss of astronauts in space, osteoporosis, bone remodeling after
fracture or remodeling after surgery (endoprosthesis and implants)
and in osteointegration. This contribution deals with the relation
between physiological, demineralized and deproteinized state of the
turkey long bone – tibia. Three methods for comparison were used: 1)
densitometry, 2) three point bending and 3) frequency analysis. The
main goal of this work was to describe the decrease of the protein
(collagen) or mineral of the bone with relation to the fracture in three
point bending. The comparison is linked to the problem of different
bone mechanical behavior in physiological and osteoporotic state.
Abstract: Recently, an increasing number of researchers have
been focusing on working out realistic solutions to sustainability
problems. As sustainability issues gain higher importance for
organisations, the management of such decisions becomes critical.
Knowledge representation is a fundamental issue of complex
knowledge based systems. Many types of sustainability problems
would benefit from models based on experts’ knowledge. Cognitive
maps have been used for analyzing and aiding decision making. A
cognitive map can be made of almost any system or problem. A
fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) can successfully represent knowledge
and human experience, introducing concepts to represent the essential
elements and the cause and effect relationships among the concepts to
model the behaviour of any system. Integrated waste management
systems (IWMS) are complex systems that can be decomposed to
non-related and related subsystems and elements, where many factors
have to be taken into consideration that may be complementary,
contradictory, and competitive; these factors influence each other and
determine the overall decision process of the system. The goal of the
present paper is to construct an efficient IWMS which considers
various factors. The authors’ intention is to propose an expert based
system design approach for implementing expert decision support in
the area of IWMSs and introduces an appropriate methodology for
the development and analysis of group FCM. A framework for such a
methodology consisting of the development and application phases is
presented.