Abstract: The research aims to study the association between
job satisfaction, motivation and the five factors of organizational
citizenship behavior (i.e. Altruism, Conscientiousness,
Sportsmanship, Courtesy and Civic virtue) among Public Sector
Employees in Pakistan. In this research Structure Equation Modeling
with confirmatory factor analysis was used to test the relationship
between two independent and five dependent variables. Data was
collected through questionnaire survey from 152 Public Servants
Working in Gujrat District-Pakistan in different capacities. Stratified
Random Sampling Technique was used to conduct this survey. The
results of the study indicate that five factors of OCB have positive
significant relation with both motivation and job satisfaction except
the relationship of Civic Virtue with Motivation. The research
findings implicate that factors other than motivation and job
satisfaction may also affect OCB. Likewise, all the five factors of
OCB may not be present in all populations. Thus, Managers must
concentrate on increasing motivation and job satisfaction to increase
OCB. Furthermore, the present research gives a direction to future
researchers to use more independent variables (e.g. Culture,
leadership, workplace environment, various job attitudes, types of
motivation, etc.) on different types of populations with larger sample
size in order to find the reasons behind insignificant relationship of
civic virtue with Motivation in the research in hand and to generalize
the tested model.
Abstract: Passive control methods can be utilized to build
earthquake resistant structures, and also to strengthen the vulnerable
ones. In this paper, we studied the effect of this system in increasing
the ductility and energy dissipation and also modeled the behavior of
this type of eccentric bracing, and compared the hysteresis diagram
of the modeled samples with the laboratory samples. We studied
several samples of frames with vertical shear-links in order to assess
the behavior of this type of eccentric bracing. Each of these samples
was modeled in finite element software ANSYS 9.0, and was
analyzed under the static cyclic loading. It was found that vertical
shear-links have a more stable hysteresis loops. Another analysis
showed that using honeycomb beams as the horizontal beam along
with steel reinforcement has no negative effect on the hysteresis
behavior of the sample.
Abstract: In this paper, the notion of rank−k numerical range
of rectangular complex matrix polynomials are introduced. Some
algebraic and geometrical properties are investigated. Moreover, for
Є > 0, the notion of Birkhoff-James approximate orthogonality
sets for Є−higher rank numerical ranges of rectangular matrix
polynomials is also introduced and studied. The proposed definitions
yield a natural generalization of the standard higher rank numerical
ranges.
Abstract: The current paper presents the results of a conducted
case study. During the past few years the number of children
diagnosed with Learning Difficulties has drastically augmented and
especially the cases of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder). One of the core characteristics of ADHD is a deficit in
working memory functions. The review of the literature indicates a
plethora of educational software that aim at training and enhancing
the working memory. Nevertheless, in the current paper, the
possibility of using for the same purpose free, online games will be
explored. Another issue of interest is the potential effect of the
working memory training to the core symptoms of ADHD. In order
to explore the abovementioned research questions, three digital tests
are employed, all of which are developed on the E-slate platform by
the author, in order to check the levels of ADHD’s symptoms and to
be used as diagnostic tools, both in the beginning and in the end of
the case study. The tools used during the main intervention of the
research are free online games for the training of working memory.
The research and the data analysis focus on the following axes: a) the
presence and the possible change in two of the core symptoms of
ADHD, attention and impulsivity and b) a possible change in the
general cognitive abilities of the individual. The case study was
conducted with the participation of a thirteen year-old, female
student, diagnosed with ADHD, during after-school hours. The
results of the study indicate positive changes both in the levels of
attention and impulsivity. Therefore, we conclude that the training of
working memory through the use of free, online games has a positive
impact on the characteristics of ADHD. Finally, concerning the
second research question, the change in general cognitive abilities, no
significant changes were noted.
Abstract: Numerous investigations suggest that Mesenchymal
Stem Cells (MSCs) in general represent a valuable tool for therapy of
symptoms related to chronic inflammatory diseases. Blue Horizon
Stem Cell Therapy Program is a leading provider of adult and
children’s stem cell therapies. Uniquely we have safely and
efficiently treated more than 600 patients with documenting each
procedure. The purpose of our study is primarily to monitor the
immune response in order to validate the safety of intravenous
infusion of human umbilical cord blood derived MSCs (UC-MSCs),
and secondly, to evaluate effects on biomarkers associated with
chronic inflammation. Nine patients were treated for conditions
associated with chronic inflammation and for the purpose of antiaging.
They have been given one intravenous infusion of UCMSCs.
Our study of blood test markers of 9 patients with chronic
inflammation before and within three months after MSCs treatment
demonstrates that there is no significant changes and MSCs treatment
was safe for the patients. Analysis of different indicators of chronic
inflammation and aging included in initial, 24-hours, two weeks and
three months protocols showed that stem cell treatment was safe for
the patients; there were no adverse reactions. Moreover data from
follow up protocols demonstrates significant improvement in energy
level, hair, nails growth and skin conditions. Intravenously
administered UC-MSCs were safe and effective in the improvement
of symptoms related to chronic inflammation. Further close
monitoring and inclusion of more patients are necessary to fully
characterize the advantages of UC-MSCs application in treatment of
symptoms related to chronic inflammation.
Abstract: In this paper we present a classification of the various technologies applied for the solution of the portfolio selection problem according to the discipline and the methodological framework followed. We provide a concise presentation of the emerged categories and we are trying to identify which methods considered obsolete and which lie at the heart of the debate. On top of that, we provide a comparative study of the different technologies applied for efficient portfolio construction and we suggest potential paths for future work that lie at the intersection of the presented techniques.
Abstract: This paper proposes that in the course of evolution
pitch structure became a human specific tool of communication the
function of which is to induce emotional states such as uncertainty
and cohesion. By the means of eliciting these emotions during
collective music performance people are able to unconsciously give
cues concerning social acceptance. This is probably one of the
reasons why in all cultures people collectively perform tonal music. It
is also suggested that tonal pitch structure had been invented socially
before it became an evolutionary innovation of hominines. It means
that a predisposition to tonally organize pitches evolved by the means
of ‘Baldwin effect’ – a process in which natural selection transforms
the learned response of an organism into the instinctive response. In
the proposed, hypothetical evolutionary scenario of the emergence of
tonal pitch structure social forces such as a need for closer
cooperation play the crucial role.
Abstract: Background: Diabetic sensorimotor polyneuropathy
(DSP) is one of the most common microvascular complications of
type 2 diabetes. Loss of sensation is thought to contribute to a lack of
static and dynamic stability and increased risk of falling. Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of low-level
laser (LLL) and monochromatic near-infrared photo energy (MIRE)
on pain, cutaneous sensation, static stability, and index of lower limb
blood flow in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy. Methods:
Forty diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy were recruited for
participation in this study. They were divided into two groups: The
MIRE group, which contained 20 patients, and the LLL group, which
contained 20 patients. All patients who participated in the study had
been subjected to various physical assessment procedures, including
pain, cutaneous sensation, Doppler flow meter, and static stability
assessments. The baseline measurements were followed by treatment
sessions that were conducted twice a week for six successive weeks.
Results: The statistical analysis of the data revealed significant
improvement of pain in both groups, with significant improvement in
cutaneous sensation and static balance in the MIRE group compared
to the LLL group; on the other hand, the results showed no
significant differences in lower limb blood flow between the groups.
Conclusion: LLL and MIRE can improve painful symptoms in
patients with diabetic neuropathy. On the other hand, MIRE is also
useful in improving cutaneous sensation and static stability in
patients with diabetic neuropathy.
Abstract: This study discusses a Turkish music education model
similar to its Venezuelan counterpart El Sistema, in which
socialization and human development are the main goals. The Music
for Peace (Baris Icin Muzik) model, founded in 2005 by an idealist
humanitarian in Istanbul, started as a pilot project with accordion and
today makes symphonic music education. The program aims to offer
social change through free-of-charge. In such a big city like Istanbul, in a deprived inner city center
people have poor economic, social and cultural conditions. In that
Edirnekapi district people don’t have opportunities to join the cultural
and social life, like music or sports. It is believed that this initiative
covered a part of this gap by giving children the opportunities to
participate in social and cultural life. In this study it is planned to understand what social changes could
music education could make in children’s lives. In the complimentary
music lessons children works in groups, which helps them to learn
the feelings of solidarity, friendship, communion and sharing. By Music for Peace project children connect with the community,
they have the belief to succeed in life because they feel that they are
loved by their friends, instructors and families. In short they feel that
they are important, thus brings the success in life. Additionally, it is
believed that, this program has achieved success. Today
approximately 400 children participate in this programs orchestras
and choirs. Some of the students get into the conservatories. And the
center is not just a place where they get music lessons but also a place
where they get socialized. And music education helps children to
have strong sense of identity, self-confidence and self-esteem.
Abstract: In this paper, relationship between different properties
of IC concrete and water cement ratio, obtained from a
comprehensive experiment conducted on IC using local materials
(Burnt clay chips- BC) is presented. In addition, saturated SAP was
used as an IC material in some cases. Relationships have been
developed through regression analysis. The focus of this analysis is
on developing relationship between a dependent variable and an
independent variable. Different percent replacements of BC and
water cement ratios were used. Compressive strength, modulus of
elasticity, water permeability and chloride permeability were tested
and variations of these parameters were analyzed with respect to
water cement ratio.
Abstract: Investigating the dynamic responses of high rise
structures under the effect of siesmic ground motion is extremely
important for the proper analysis and design of multitoried structures.
Since the presence of infilled walls strongly influences the behaviour
of frame systems in multistoried buildings, there is an increased need
for developing guidelines for the analysis and design of infilled
frames under the effect of dynamic loads for safe and proper design
of buildings. In this manuscript, we evaluate the natural frequencies
and natural periods of single bay single storey frames considering the
effect of infill walls by using the Eigen value analysis and validating
with SAP 2000 (free vibration analysis). Various parameters obtained
from the diagonal strut model followed for the free vibration analysis
is then compared with the Finite Element model, where infill is
modeled as shell elements (four noded). We also evaluated the effect
of various parameters on the natural periods of vibration obtained by
free vibration analysis in SAP 2000 comparing them with those
obtained by the empirical expressions presented in I.S. 1893(Part I)-
2002.
Abstract: The primary objective of this work was to study the
effect of resin chemistry, pH and molarity of binding and elution
buffer on aggregate removal using Cation Exchange Chromatography
and find the optimum conditions which can give efficient aggregate
removal with minimum loss of yield. Four different resins were used
for carrying out the experiments: Fractogel EMD SO3
-(S), Fractogel EMD COO-(M), Capto SP ImpRes and S Ceramic HyperD. Runs
were carried out on the AKTA Avant system. Design of Experiments
(DOE) was used for analysis using the JMP software. The
dependence of the yield obtained using different resins on the
operating conditions was studied. Success has been achieved in
obtaining yield greater than 90% using Capto SP ImpRes and
Fractogel EMD COO-(M) resins. It has also been found that a change
in the operating conditions generally has different effects on the
yields obtained using different resins.
Abstract: In this paper numerical studies have been carried out
to examine the pre-ignition flow features of high-performance solid
propellant rocket motors with two different port geometries but with
same propellant loading density. Numerical computations have been
carried out using a validated 3D, unsteady, 2nd-order implicit, SST k-
ω turbulence model. In the numerical study, a fully implicit finite
volume scheme of the compressible, Reynolds-Averaged, Navier-
Stokes equations is employed. We have observed from the numerical
results that in solid rocket motors with highly loaded propellants
having divergent port geometry the hot igniter gases can create preignition
pressure oscillations leading to thrust oscillations due to the
flow unsteadiness and recirculation. We have also observed that the
igniter temperature fluctuations are diminished rapidly thereby
reaching the steady state value faster in the case of solid propellant
rocket motors with convergent port than the divergent port
irrespective of the igniter total pressure. We have concluded that the
prudent selection of the port geometry, without altering the propellant
loading density, for damping the total temperature fluctuations within
the motor is a meaningful objective for the suppression and control of
instability and/or thrust oscillations often observed in solid propellant
rocket motors with non-uniform port geometry.
Abstract: This survey paper shows the recent state of model
comparison as it’s applies to Model Driven engineering. In Model
Driven Engineering to calculate the difference between the models is
a very important and challenging task. There are number of tasks
involved in model differencing that firstly starts with identifying and
matching the elements of the model. In this paper, we discuss how
model matching is accomplished, the strategies, techniques and the
types of the model. We also discuss the future direction. We found
out that many of the latest model comparison strategies are geared
near enabling Meta model and similarity based matching. Therefore
model versioning is the most dominant application of the model
comparison. Recently to work on comparison for versioning has
begun to deteriorate, giving way to different applications. Ultimately
there is wide change among the tools in the measure of client exertion
needed to perform model comparisons, as some require more push to
encourage more sweeping statement and expressive force.
Abstract: A new design of aerostatic thrust bearing is proposed
for high static stiffness. The bearing body, which is mead of polymer
covered with metallic membrane, is held by a circular ring. Such a
support helps form a concave air gap to grasp the air pressure. The
polymer body, which can be made rapidly by either injection or
molding is able to provide extra damping under dynamic loading. The
smooth membrane not only serves as the bearing surface but also
protects the polymer body. The restrictor is a capillary inside a silicone
tube. It can passively compensate the variation of load by expanding
the capillary diameter for more air flux. In the present example, the
stiffness soars from 15.85 N/μm of typical bearing to 349.85 N/μm at
bearing elevation 9.5 μm; meanwhile the load capacity also enhances
from 346.86 N to 704.18 N.
Abstract: Concrete is strong in compression however weak in
tension. The tensile strength as well as ductile property of concrete
could be improved by addition of short dispersed fibers. Polyethylene
terephthalate (PET) fiber obtained from hand cutting or mechanical
slitting of plastic sheets generally used as discrete reinforcement in
substitution of steel fiber. PET fiber obtained from the former process
is in the form of straight slit sheet pattern that impart weaker
mechanical bonding behavior in the concrete matrix. To improve the
limitation of straight slit sheet fiber the present study considered two
additional geometry of fiber namely (a) flattened end slit sheet and
(b) deformed slit sheet. The mix for plain concrete was design for a
compressive strength of 25 MPa at 28 days curing time with a watercement
ratio of 0.5. Cylindrical and beam specimens with 0.5% fibers
volume fraction and without fibers were cast to investigate the
influence of geometry on the mechanical properties of concrete. The
performance parameters mainly studied include flexural strength,
splitting tensile strength, compressive strength and ultrasonic pulse
velocity (UPV). Test results show that geometry of fiber has a
marginal effect on the workability of concrete. However, it plays a
significant role in achieving a good compressive and tensile strength
of concrete. Further, significant improvement in term of flexural and
energy dissipation capacity were observed from other fibers as
compared to the straight slit sheet pattern. Also, the inclusion of PET
fiber improved the ability in absorbing energy in the post-cracking
state of the specimen as well as no significant porous structures.
Abstract: The goal of the modern education system is to prepare
students to be able to adapt to ever-changing life situations. They
must be able to acquire required knowledge independently; apply
such knowledge in practice to solve various problems by using
modern technologies; think critically and creatively; competently use
information; be communicative, work in a team; and develop their
own moral values, intellect and cultural awareness. As a result, the
status of education significantly increases; new requirements to its
quality have been formed. In recent years the competency-based
approach in education has become of significant interest. This
approach is a strengthening of applied and practical characteristics of
a school education and leads to the forming of the key students’
competencies which define their success in future life. In this article,
the authors’ attention focuses on a range of key competencies,
educational, informational and communicative and on the possibility
to develop such competencies via STEM education. This research
shows the change in students’ attitude towards scientific disciplines
such as mathematics, general science, technology and engineering as
a result of STEM education. Two staged analyzed questionnaires
completed by students of forms II to IV in the republic of Trinidad
and Tobago allowed the authors to categorize students between two
levels that represent students’ attitude to various disciplines. The
significance of differences between selected levels was confirmed
with the use of Pearson’s chi-squared test. In summary, the analysis
of obtained data makes it possible to conclude that STEM education
has a great potential for development of core students’ competencies
and encourage the development of positive student attitude towards
the above mentioned above scientific disciplines.
Abstract: Electrohydraulic servo system have been used in
industry in a wide number of applications. Its dynamics are highly
nonlinear and also have large extent of model uncertainties and
external disturbances. In this paper, a robust back-stepping control
(RBSC) scheme is proposed to overcome the problem of disturbances
and system uncertainties effectively and to improve the tracking
performance of EHS systems. In order to implement the proposed
control scheme, the system uncertainties in EHS systems are
considered as total leakage coefficient and effective oil volume. In
addition, in order to obtain the virtual controls for stabilizing system,
the update rule for the system uncertainty term is induced by
the Lyapunov control function (LCF). To verify the performance and
robustness of the proposed control system, computer simulation of
the proposed control system using Matlab/Simulink Software
is executed. From the computer simulation, it was found that the
RBSC system produces the desired tracking performance and has
robustness to the disturbances and system uncertainties of EHS
systems.
Abstract: The teaching of computer programming for beginners
has been generally considered as a difficult and challenging task.
Several methodologies and research tools have been developed,
however, the difficulty of teaching still remains. Our work integrates
the state of the art in teaching programming with game software and
further provides metrics for the evaluation of student performance in
a collaborative activity of playing games. This paper aims to present a
multi-agent system architecture to be incorporated to the educational
collaborative game software for teaching programming that monitors,
evaluates and encourages collaboration by the participants. A
literature review has been made on the concepts of Collaborative
Learning, Multi-agents systems, collaborative games and techniques
to teach programming using these concepts simultaneously.
Abstract: Information technology plays an irreplaceable role in
introducing and improving business process orientation in a
company. It enables implementation of the theoretical concept,
measurement of results achieved and undertaking corrective
measures aimed at improvements. Information technology is a key
concept in the development and implementation of the business
process management systems as it establishes a connection to
business operations. Both in the literature and practice, insurance
companies are often seen as highly process oriented due to the nature
of their business and focus on customers. They are also considered
leaders in using information technology for business process
management. The research conducted aimed to investigate whether
the perceived leadership status of insurance companies is well
deserved, i.e. to establish the level of process orientation and explore
the practice of information technology use in insurance companies in
the region. The main instrument for primary data collection within
this research was an electronic survey questionnaire sent to the
management of insurance companies in the Republic of Croatia,
Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Serbia and Macedonia. The
conducted research has shown that insurance companies have a
satisfactory level of process orientation, but that there is also a huge
potential for improvement, especially in the segment of information
technology and its connection to business processes.