Abstract: Health workforce is a fundamental component of
health system and plays a significant role in delivering effective
health care services. However, there is a crucial shortage of skilled
personnel which make them prone to work in stressful conditions. In
spite of excessively high workload and burnout among the staff, little
attention is given to their job satisfaction level which has serious
implications on the productivity and effective performance of staff to
achieve organizational goals. Therefore, this study aims to explore
the job satisfaction of midwives working in the labor ward of the
Lady Dufferin Hospital, Karachi. A cross-sectional survey was
conducted. The short version of Minnesota Job Satisfaction
Questionnaire was administered on a convenient sample group of 22
midwives to gather information on their job satisfaction. The results
demonstrated that midwives were overall satisfied with their job. The
level of job satisfaction was however found different in various
positions within midwifery cadre. The head of midwives was highly
satisfied as compared to midwifery staff who works under the
supervision of head. The level of satisfaction of team leaders fall
between the head and staff of midwifery. Similar trends were
observed for both intrinsic and extrinsic job satisfaction. Such
evidences on these issues are essential and useful as it helps explore
the attitudes of individuals towards work which has direct
implications on access to quality care services. Strategic interventions
are required at organizational level to provide motivators and
satisfiers to health workers for their work related satisfaction and
enhanced motivation.
Abstract: Thermal enhancement of a single mini channel in
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell (PEMFC) cooling plate is
numerically investigated. In this study, low concentration of Al2O3 in
Water - Ethylene Glycol mixtures is used as coolant in single channel
of carbon graphite plate to mimic the mini channels in PEMFC
cooling plate. A steady and incompressible flow with constant heat
flux is assumed in the channel of 1mm x 5mm x 100mm. Nano
particle of Al2O3 used ranges from 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 vol %
concentration and then dispersed in 60:40 (water: Ethylene Glycol)
mixture. The effect of different flow rates to fluid flow and heat
transfer enhancement in Re number range of 20 to 140 was observed.
The result showed that heat transfer coefficient was improved by
18.11%, 9.86% and 5.37% for 0.5, 0.3 and 0.1 vol. % Al2O3 in 60:40
(water: EG) as compared to base fluid of 60:40 (water: EG). It is also
showed that the higher vol. % concentration of Al2O3 performed
better in term of thermal enhancement but at the expense of higher
pumping power required due to increase in pressure drop
experienced. Maximum additional pumping power of 0.0012W was
required for 0.5 vol % Al2O3 in 60:40 (water: EG) at Re number 140.
Abstract: Operation enhancement in an air cooler depends on
rate of heat transfer, and pressure drop. In this paper for a given heat
duty, study of the effects of FPI (Fin Per Inch) and fin type (circular
and hexagonal fins) on heat transfer, and pressure drop in an air
cooler in Iran, Arvand petrochemical. A program in EES
(Engineering Equations Solver) software moreover, Aspen B-JAC
and HTFS+ softwares are used for this purpose to solve governing
equations. At first the simulated results obtained from this program is
compared to the experimental data for two cases of FPI. The effects
of FPI from 3 to 15 over heat transfer (Q) to pressure drop ratio
(Q/Δp ratio). This ratio is one of the main parameters in design, and
simulation heat exchangers. The results show that heat transfer (Q)
and pressure drop increase with increasing FPI steadily, and the Q/Δp
ratio increases to FPI=12 and then decreased gradually to FPI=15,
and Q/Δp ratio is maximum at FPI=12. The FPI value selection
between 8 and 12 obtained as a result to optimum heat transfer to
pressure drop ratio. Also by contrast, between circular and hexagonal
fins results, the Q/Δp ratio of hexagonal fins more than Q/Δp ratio of
circular fins for FPI between 8 and 12 (optimum FPI)
Abstract: The level and type of student academic motivation are
the key factors in their development and determine the effectiveness
of their education. Improving motivation is very important with
regard to courses on middle school mathematics. This article examines the general position regarding the practice of
academic motivation. It also examines the particular features of
mathematical problem solving in a school setting.
Abstract: Inference plays an important role in the learning
process and it can lead to a rapid acquisition of a second language.
When learning a non-native language i.e., a critical language like
Arabic, the students depend on the teacher’s support most of the time
to learn new concepts. The students focus on memorizing the new
vocabulary and stress on learning all the grammatical rules. Hence,
the students became mechanical and cannot produce the language
easily. As a result, they are unable to predicate the meaning of words
in the context by relying heavily on the teacher, in that they cannot
link their prior knowledge or even identify the meaning of the words
without the support of the teacher. This study explores how the
teacher guides students learning during the inference process and
what are the processes of learning that can direct student’s inference.
Abstract: Social Avoidance is one of the most important
problems that face a good number of disabled students. It results from
the negative attitudes of non-disabled students, teachers and others.
Some of the past research has shown that non-disabled individuals
hold negative attitudes toward persons with disabilities. The present
study aims to alleviate Social Avoidance by applying the Cognitive
Behavioral Intervention. 24 Blind students aged 19–24 (university students) were randomly
chosen we compared an experimental group (consisted of 12
students) who went through the intervention program, with a control
group (12 students also) who did not go through such intervention.
We used the Social Avoidance and Distress Scale (SADS) to assess
social anxiety and distress behavior. The author used many
techniques of cognitive behavioral intervention such as modeling,
cognitive restructuring, extension, contingency contracts, selfmonitoring,
assertiveness training, role play, encouragement and
others. Statistically, T-test was employed to test the research
hypothesis. Result showed that there is a significance difference between the
experimental group and the control group after the intervention and
also at the follow up stages of the Social Avoidance and Distress
Scale. Also for the experimental group, there is a significance
difference before the intervention and the follow up stages for the
scale. Results showed that, there is a decrease in social avoidance.
Accordingly, cognitive behavioral intervention program was
successful in decreasing social avoidance for blind students.
Abstract: Chatter vibrations and process instabilities are the
most important factors limiting the productivity of the milling
process. Chatter can leads to damage of the tool, the part or the
machine tool. Therefore, the estimation and prediction of the process
stability is very important. The process stability depends on the
spindle speed, the depth of cut and the width of cut. In milling, the
process conditions are defined in the NC-program. While the spindle
speed is directly coded in the NC-program, the depth and width of cut
are unknown. This paper presents a new simulation based approach
for the prediction of the depth and width of cut of a milling process.
The prediction is based on a material removal simulation with an
analytically represented tool shape and a multi-dexel approach for the
workpiece. The new calculation method allows the direct estimation
of the depth and width of cut, which are the influencing parameters of
the process stability, instead of the removed volume as existing
approaches do. The knowledge can be used to predict the stability of
new, unknown parts. Moreover with an additional vibration sensor,
the stability lobe diagram of a milling process can be estimated and
improved based on the estimated depth and width of cut.
Abstract: One of the major problems being faced by human society is that the global temperature is believed to be rising due to human activity that releases carbon IV Oxide (CO2) to the atmosphere. Carbon IV Oxide is the most important greenhouse gas influencing global warming and possible climate change. With climate change becoming alarming, reducing CO2 in our atmosphere has become a primary goal of international efforts. Forest lands are major sink and could absorb large quantities of carbon if the trees are judiciously managed. The study aims at estimating the carbon sequestration capacity of Pinus caribaea (pine) and Tectona grandis (Teak) under the prevailing environmental conditions and exploring tree growth variables that influences the carbon sequestration capacity in Omo Forest Reserve, Ogun State, Nigeria. Improving forest management by manipulating growth characteristics that influences carbon sequestration could be an adaptive strategy of forestry to climate change. Random sampling was used to select Temporary Sample Plots (TSPs) in the study area from where complete enumeration of growth variables was carried out within the plots. The data collected were subjected to descriptive and correlational analyses. The results showed that average carbon stored by Pine and Teak are 994.4±188.3 Kg and 1350.7±180.6 Kg respectively. The difference in carbon stored in the species is significant enough to consider choice of species relevant in climate change adaptation strategy. Tree growth variables influence the capacity of the tree to sequester carbon. Height, diameter, volume, wood density and age are positively correlated to carbon sequestration. These tree growth variables could be manipulated by the forest manager as an adaptive strategy for climate change while plantations of high wood density species could be relevant for management strategy to increase carbon storage.
Abstract: A novel Active Flap System (AFS) has been developed
at DTU Wind Energy, as a result of a 3-year R&D project following
almost 10 years of innovative research in this field. The full scale AFS
comprises an active deformable trailing edge has been tested at the
unique rotating test facility at the Risø Campus of DTU Wind Energy
in Denmark. The design and instrumentation of the wing section and
the AFS are described. The general description and objectives of the
rotating test rig at the Risø campus of DTU are presented, along
with an overview of sensors on the setup and the test cases. The
post-processing of data is discussed and results of steady, flap step
and azimuth control flap cases are presented.
Abstract: This paper discusses the question whether a person
diagnosed with dyslexia will necessarily have difficulty in reading
musical notes. The author specifies the characteristics of alphabet
reading in comparison to musical notation reading, and concludes
that there should be no contra-indication for teaching standard music
reading to children with dyslexia if an appropriate process is offered.
This conclusion is based on a long term case study and relies on two
main characteristics of music reading: (1) musical notation system is
a systematic, logical, relative set of symbols written on a staff; and
(2) music reading learning connected with playing a musical
instrument is a multi-sensory activity that combines sight, hearing,
touch, and movement. The paper describes music reading teaching
procedures, using soprano recorders, and provides unique teaching
methods that have been found to be effective for students who were
diagnosed with dyslexia. It provides theoretical explanations in
addition to guidelines for music education practices.
Abstract: The availability to deploy mobile applications for
health care is increasing daily thru different mobile app stores. But
within these capabilities the number of hacking attacks has also
increased, in particular into medical mobile applications. The security
vulnerabilities in medical mobile apps can be triggered by errors in
code, incorrect logic, poor design, among other parameters. This is
usually used by malicious attackers to steal or modify the users’
information. The aim of this research is to analyze the vulnerabilities
detected in mobile medical apps according to risk factor standards
defined by OWASP in 2014.
Abstract: One of the fundamental characteristics of Information
and Communication Technology (ICT) has been the ever-changing
nature of continuous release and models of ICTs with its impact on
the academic, social, and psychological benefits of its introduction in
schools. However, there seems to be a growing concern about its
negative impact on students when introduced early in schools for
teaching and learning. This study aims to design a model of child
development factors affecting the early introduction of ICTs in
schools in an attempt to improve the understanding of child
development and introduction of ICTs in schools. The proposed
model is based on a sound theoretical framework. It was designed
following a literature review of child development theories and child
development factors. The child development theoretical framework
that fitted to the best of all child development factors was then chosen
as the basis for the proposed model. This study hence found that the
Jean Piaget cognitive developmental theory is the most adequate
theoretical frameworks for modeling child development factors for
ICT introduction in schools.
Abstract: This paper discusses the general methods to saturation
in the steady-state, two axis (d & q) frame models of synchronous
machines. In particular, the important role of the magnetic coupling
between the d-q axes (cross-magnetizing phenomenon), is
demonstrated. For that purpose, distinct methods of saturation
modeling of dumper synchronous machine with cross-saturation are
identified, and detailed models synthesis in d-q axes. A number of
models are given in the final developed form. The procedure and the
novel models are verified by a critical application to prove the
validity of the method and the equivalence between all developed
models is reported. Advantages of some of the models over the
existing ones and their applicability are discussed.
Abstract: This paper is aimed to study combustion characteristics
of low NOx burner using petroleum cokes as fuel. The petroleum coke,
which is produced through the oil refining process, is an attractive fuel
in terms of its high heating value and low price. But petroleum coke is
a challenging fuel because of its low volatile content, high sulfur and
nitrogen content, which give rise to undesirable emission
characteristics and low ignitability. Therefore, the research and
development regarding the petroleum coke burner is needed for
applying this industrial system. In this study, combustion and emission
characteristics of petroleum cokes burner are experimentally
investigated in an industrial steam boiler. The low NOx burner is
designed to control fuel and air mixing to achieve staged combustion,
which, in turn reduces both flame temperature and oxygen. Air
distribution ratio of triple staged air is optimized experimentally. The
result showed that NOx concentration is lowest when overfire air is
used, and the burner function at a fuel rich condition. That is, the
burner is operated at the equivalence ratio of 1.67 and overall
equivalence ratio including overfire air is kept 0.87.
Abstract: This study presents a hybrid metaheuristic algorithm
to obtain optimum designs for steel space buildings. The optimum
design problem of three-dimensional steel frames is mathematically
formulated according to provisions of LRFD-AISC (Load and
Resistance factor design of American Institute of Steel Construction).
Design constraints such as the strength requirements of structural
members, the displacement limitations, the inter-story drift and the
other structural constraints are derived from LRFD-AISC
specification. In this study, a hybrid algorithm by using teachinglearning
based optimization (TLBO) and harmony search (HS)
algorithms is employed to solve the stated optimum design problem.
These algorithms are two of the recent additions to metaheuristic
techniques of numerical optimization and have been an efficient tool
for solving discrete programming problems. Using these two
algorithms in collaboration creates a more powerful tool and
mitigates each other’s weaknesses. To demonstrate the powerful
performance of presented hybrid algorithm, the optimum design of a
large scale steel building is presented and the results are compared to
the previously obtained results available in the literature.
Abstract: The importance of energy efficiency within the production processes increases steadily. For a comprehensive assessment of energy efficiency within the production process, unfortunately no tools exist or have been developed yet. Therefore the Institute for Factory Automation and Production Systems at the Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nuremberg has developed two methods with the goal of achieving transparency and a quantitative assessment of energy efficiency namely EEV (Energy Efficiency Value) and EPE (Energetic Process Efficiency). This paper describes the basics and state-of-the-art as well as the developed approaches.
Abstract: Anammox is a novel and promising technology that has changed the traditional concept of biological nitrogen removal. The process facilitates direct oxidation of ammonical nitrogen under anaerobic conditions with nitrite as an electron acceptor without addition of external carbon sources. The present study investigated the feasibility of Anammox Hybrid Reactor (AHR) combining the dual advantages of suspended and attached growth media for biodegradation of ammonical nitrogen in wastewater. Experimental unit consisted of 4 nos. of 5L capacity AHR inoculated with mixed seed culture containing anoxic and activated sludge (1:1). The process was established by feeding the reactors with synthetic wastewater containing NH4-H and NO2-N in the ratio 1:1 at HRT (hydraulic retention time) of 1 day. The reactors were gradually acclimated to higher ammonium concentration till it attained pseudo steady state removal at a total nitrogen concentration of 1200 mg/l. During this period, the performance of the AHR was monitored at twelve different HRTs varying from 0.25-3.0 d with increasing NLR from 0.4 to 4.8 kg N/m3d. AHR demonstrated significantly higher nitrogen removal (95.1%) at optimal HRT of 1 day. Filter media in AHR contributed an additional 27.2% ammonium removal in addition to 72% reduction in the sludge washout rate. This may be attributed to the functional mechanism of filter media which acts as a mechanical sieve and reduces the sludge washout rate many folds. This enhances the biomass retention capacity of the reactor by 25%, which is the key parameter for successful operation of high rate bioreactors. The effluent nitrate concentration, which is one of the bottlenecks of anammox process was also minimised significantly (42.3-52.3 mg/L). Process kinetics was evaluated using first order and Grau-second order models. The first-order substrate removal rate constant was found as 13.0 d-1. Model validation revealed that Grau second order model was more precise and predicted effluent nitrogen concentration with least error (1.84±10%). A new mathematical model based on mass balance was developed to predict N2 gas in AHR. The mass balance model derived from total nitrogen dictated significantly higher correlation (R2=0.986) and predicted N2 gas with least error of precision (0.12±8.49%). SEM study of biomass indicated the presence of heterogeneous population of cocci and rod shaped bacteria of average diameter varying from 1.2-1.5 mm. Owing to enhanced NRE coupled with meagre production of effluent nitrate and its ability to retain high biomass, AHR proved to be the most competitive reactor configuration for dealing with nitrogen laden wastewater.
Abstract: Linear stability analysis of double diffusive convection
in a horizontal porous layer saturated with fluid is examined by
considering the effects of viscous dissipation, concentration based
internal heat source and vertical throughflow. The basic steady
state solution for Governing equations is derived. Linear stability
analysis has been implemented numerically by using shooting
and Runge-kutta methods. Critical thermal Rayleigh number Rac
is obtained for various values of solutal Rayleigh number Sa,
vertical Peclet number Pe, Gebhart number Ge, Lewis number
Le and measure of concentration based internal heat source
γ. It is observed that Ge has destabilizing effect for upward
throughflow and stabilizing effect for downward throughflow. And
γ has considerable destabilizing effect for upward throughflow and
insignificant destabilizing effect for downward throughflow.
Abstract: Natural dyes are gaining interest due their expected
low risk to human health and to the environment. In this study, the
wash fastness of a natural coloring matter from the liquid waste
produced in the steam treatment of eucalyptus wood in textile fabrics
was investigated. Specifically, eucalyptus wood extract was used to
dye cotton, nylon and wool in an exhaust dyeing process without the
addition of the traditional mordanting agents and then submitted to
wash fastness analysis. The resulting dyed fabrics were evaluated for
color fastness. It was found that wash fastness of dyed fabrics was
very good to cotton and excellent to nylon and wool.
Abstract: This paper introduces a method to optimal design of a
hybrid Wind/Photovoltaic/Fuel cell generation system for a typical
domestic load that is not located near the electricity grid. In this
configuration the combination of a battery, an electrolyser, and a
hydrogen storage tank are used as the energy storage system. The aim
of this design is minimization of overall cost of generation scheme
over 20 years of operation. The Matlab/Simulink is applied for
choosing the appropriate structure and the optimization of system
sizing. A teaching learning based optimization is used to optimize the
cost function. An overall power management strategy is designed for
the proposed system to manage power flows among the different
energy sources and the storage unit in the system. The results have
been analyzed in terms of technical and economic. The simulation
results indicate that the proposed hybrid system would be a feasible
solution for stand-alone applications at remote locations.