Abstract: The importance of inter-organizational system (IOS)
has been increasingly recognized by organizations. However, IOS
adoption has proved to be difficult and, at this stage, why this is so is
not fully uncovered. In practice, benefits have often remained
concentrated, primarily accruing to the dominant party, resulting in
low rates of adoption and usage, and often culminating in the failure
of the IOS. The main research question is why organizations initiate
or join IOS and what factors influence their adoption and use levels.
This paper reviews the literature on IOS adoption and proposes a
theoretical framework in order to identify the critical factors to
capture a complete picture of IOS adoption. With our proposed
critical factors, we are able to investigate their relative contributions
to IOS adoption decisions. We obtain findings that suggested that
there are five groups of factors that significantly affect the adoption
and use decision of IOS in the Supply Chain Management (SCM)
context: 1) interorganizational context, 2) organizational context, 3)
technological context, 4) perceived costs, and 5) perceived benefits.
Abstract: This paper deals with the development and obstacles of
Korean women-s political participation in recent years. Since the year
1948 after the declaration of a modern state, Korea has tried to
establish the democracy but still in the field of women-s political
participation it meets a lot of problems such as women-s political
consciousness, male dominated political culture and institutional
constraints. After the introduction of quota system in the list of
political party, women-s political participation began to change its
configuration. More women candidates have willingly presented at
elections.
Abstract: MABENA model is a complementary model in
comparison with traditional models such as HCMS, CMS and etc.
New factors, which have effects on preparation of strategic plans and
their sequential order in MABENA model is the platform of
presented road map in this paper.Study review shows, factors such as
emerging new critical success factors for strategic planning,
improvement of international strategic models, increasing the
maturity of companies and emerging new needs leading to design a
new model which can be responsible for new critical factors and
solve the limitations of previous strategic management models.
Preparation of strategic planning need more factors than introduced
in traditional models. The needed factors includes determining future
Critical Success Factors and competencies, defining key processes,
determining the maturity of the processes, considering all aspects of
the external environment etc. Description of aforementioned
requirements, the outcomes and their order is developing and
presenting the MABENA model-s road map in this paper. This study
presents a road map for strategic planning of the Iranian
organizations.
Abstract: Safety of bus journey is a fundamental concern. Risk of injuries and fatalities is severe when bus superstructure fails during rollover accident. Adequate design and sufficient strength of bus superstructure can reduce the number of injuries and fatalities. This paper deals with structural analysis of bus superstructure undergoes rollover event. Several value of mass will be varied in multiple simulations. The purpose of this work is to analyze structural response of bus superstructure in terms of deformation, stress and strain under several loading and constraining conditions. A complete bus superstructure with forty four passenger-s capability was developed using finite element analysis software. Simulations have been conducted to observe the effect of total mass of bus on the strength of superstructure. These simulations are following United Nation Economic Commission of Europe regulation 66 which focuses on strength of large vehicle superstructure. Validation process had been done using simple box model experiment and results obtained are comparing with simulation results. Inputs data from validation process had been used in full scale simulation. Analyses suggested that, the failure of bus superstructure during rollover situation is basically dependent on the total mass of bus and on the strength of bus superstructure.
Abstract: Temperature dependence of force of gravitation is one
of the fundamental problems of physics. This problem has got special
value in connection with that the general theory of relativity,
supposing the weakest positive influence of a body temperature on its
weight, actually rejects an opportunity of measurement of negative
influence of temperature on gravity in laboratory conditions. Really,
the recognition of negative temperature dependence of gravitation,
for example, means basic impossibility of achievement of a
singularity («a black hole») at a gravitational collapse. Laboratory
experiments with exact weighing the heated up metal samples,
indicating negative influence temperatures of bodies on their physical
weight are described. Influence of mistakes of measurements is
analyzed. Calculations of distribution of temperature in volume of the
bar, agreed with experimental data of time dependence of weight of
samples are executed. The physical substantiation of negative
temperature dependence of weight of the bodies, based on correlation
of acceleration at thermal movement of micro-particles of a body and
its absolute temperature, are given.
Abstract: This article stands in the context of rural communities
in Brazil, where, like many others emerging countries, the
overwhelming increasing markets and the overcrowded cities are
leaving behind informal settlements based on obsolete agricultural
economies and techniques. The pilot project for the community of
Goiabeira reflects the attempt to imagine a development model that
privileges the actual improvement of living conditions, the education
and training, the social inclusion and participation of the dwellers of
rural communities. Through the inclusion of operative public space,
the aim is for them to become self-sustaining, encouraging the use of
local resources for appropriate architectural, ecological and energy
technologies and devices, that are efficient, affordable and foster
community participation, in the respect of the surrounding
environment.
Abstract: With the growth of electricity generation from gas
energy gas pipeline reliability can substantially impact the electric
generation. A physical disruption to pipeline or to a compressor
station can interrupt the flow of gas or reduce the pressure and lead
to loss of multiple gas-fired electric generators, which could
dramatically reduce the supplied power and threaten the power
system security. Gas pressure drops during peak loading time on
pipeline system, is a common problem in network with no enough
transportation capacity which limits gas transportation and causes
many problem for thermal domain power systems in supplying their
demand. For a feasible generation scheduling planning in networks
with no sufficient gas transportation capacity, it is required to
consider gas pipeline constraints in solving the optimization problem
and evaluate the impacts of gas consumption in power plants on gas
pipelines operating condition. This paper studies about operating of
gas fired power plants in critical conditions when the demand of gas
and electricity peak together. An integrated model of gas and electric
model is used to consider the gas pipeline constraints in the economic
dispatch problem of gas-fueled thermal generator units.
Abstract: This paper presents the development of adaptive
distance relay for protection of parallel transmission line with mutual
coupling. The proposed adaptive relay, automatically adjusts its
operation based on the acquisition of the data from distance relay of
adjacent line and status of adjacent line from line circuit breaker IED
(Intelligent Electronic Device). The zero sequence current of the
adjacent parallel transmission line is used to compute zero sequence
current ratio and the mutual coupling effect is fully compensated.
The relay adapts to changing circumstances, like failure in
communication from other relays and non - availability of adjacent
transmission line. The performance of the proposed adaptive relay is
tested using steady state and dynamic test procedures. The fault
transients are obtained by simulating a realistic parallel transmission
line system with mutual coupling effect in PSCAD. The evaluation
test results show the efficacy of adaptive distance relay over the
conventional distance relay.
Abstract: This research proposes a methodology for patent-citation-based technology input-output analysis by applying the patent information to input-output analysis developed for the dependencies among different industries. For this analysis, a technology relationship matrix and its components, as well as input and technology inducement coefficients, are constructed using patent information. Then, a technology inducement coefficient is calculated by normalizing the degree of citation from certain IPCs to the different IPCs (International patent classification) or to the same IPCs. Finally, we construct a Dependency Structure Matrix (DSM) based on the technology inducement coefficient to suggest a useful application for this methodology.
Abstract: It is believed that DNA damaging toxic metabolites contributes to the development of different pathological conditions. To prevent harmful influence of toxic agents, cells developed number of protecting mechanisms, such as enzymatic reaction of detoxification of reactive metabolites and repair of DNA damage. The aim of the study was to examine the association between polymorphism of GSTT1/GSTM1 and XRCC1/3 genes and coronary artery disease (CAD) incidence. To examine a polymorphism of these genes in CAD susceptibility in patients and controls, PCR based genotyping assay was performed. For GST genes, frequency of GSTM1 null genotype among CAD affected group was significantly increased than in control group (P0.1). We found that neither XRCC1 Arg399Gln nor XRCC3 Thr241Met were associated with CAD risk. Obtained data suggests that GSTM1 null genotype carriers are more susceptible to CAD development.
Abstract: The paper aims to show that implementing different
types of reflectors in solar energy systems, will dramatically improve
energy production by means of concentrating and intensifying more
sunlight onto a solar cell. The Solar Intensifier unit is designed to
increase efficiency and performance of a set of solar panels. The unit
was fabricated and tested. The experimental results show good
improvement in the performance of the solar energy system.
Abstract: Wind power is among the most actively developing distributed generation (DG) technology. Majority of the wind power based DG technologies employ wind turbine induction generators (WTIG) instead of synchronous generators, for the technical advantages like: reduced size, increased robustness, lower cost, and increased electromechanical damping. However, dynamic changes of wind speed make the amount of active/reactive power injected/drawn to a WTIG embedded distribution network highly variable. This paper analyzes the effect of wind speed changes on the active and reactive power penetration to the wind energy embedded distribution network. Four types of wind speed changes namely; constant, linear change, gust change and random change of wind speed are considered in the analysis. The study is carried out by three-phase, non-linear, dynamic simulation of distribution system component models. Results obtained from the investigation are presented and discussed.
Abstract: In this paper, an Interactive Compromise Approach
with Particle Swarm Optimization(ICA-PSO) is presented to solve the
Economic Emission Dispatch(EED) problem. The cost function and
emission function are modeled as the nonsmooth functions,
respectively. The bi-objective including both the minimization of cost
and emission is formulated in this paper. ICA-PSO is proposed to
solve EED problem for finding a better compromise solution. The
solution methodology can offer a global or near-global solution for
decision-making requirements. The effectiveness and efficiency of
ICA-PSO are demonstrated by a sample test system. Test results can
be shown that the proposed method provide a practical and flexible
framework for power dispatch.
Abstract: A frictionless contact problem for a two-layer orthotropic elastic medium loaded through a rigid flat stamp is considered. It is assumed that tensile tractions are not allowed and only compressive tractions can be transmitted across the interface. In the solution, effect of gravity is taken into consideration. If the external load on the rigid stamp is less than or equal to a critical value, continuous contact between the layers is maintained. The problem is expressed in terms of a singular integral equation by using the theory of elasticity and the Fourier transforms. Numerical results for initial separation point, critical separation load and contact stress distribution are presented.
Abstract: Stick models are widely used in studying the
behaviour of straight as well as skew bridges and viaducts subjected
to earthquakes while carrying out preliminary studies. The
application of such models to highly curved bridges continues to
pose challenging problems. A viaduct proposed in the foothills of the
Himalayas in Northern India is chosen for the study. It is having 8
simply supported spans @ 30 m c/c. It is doubly curved in horizontal
plane with 20 m radius. It is inclined in vertical plane as well. The
superstructure consists of a box section. Three models have been
used: a conventional stick model, an improved stick model and a 3D
finite element model. The improved stick model is employed by
making use of body constraints in order to study its capabilities. The
first 8 frequencies are about 9.71% away in the latter two models.
Later the difference increases to 80% in 50th mode. The viaduct was
subjected to all three components of the El Centro earthquake of May
1940. The numerical integration was carried out using the Hilber-
Hughes-Taylor method as implemented in SAP2000. Axial forces
and moments in the bridge piers as well as lateral displacements at
the bearing levels are compared for the three models. The maximum
difference in the axial forces and bending moments and
displacements vary by 25% between the improved and finite element
model. Whereas, the maximum difference in the axial forces,
moments, and displacements in various sections vary by 35%
between the improved stick model and equivalent straight stick
model. The difference for torsional moment was as high as 75%. It is
concluded that the stick model with body constraints to model the
bearings and expansion joints is not desirable in very sharp S curved
viaducts even for preliminary analysis. This model can be used only
to determine first 10 frequency and mode shapes but not for member
forces. A 3D finite element analysis must be carried out for
meaningful results.
Abstract: It is known that an analog Hopfield neural network
with time delay can generate the outputs which are similar to the
human electroencephalogram. To gain deeper insights into the
mechanisms of rhythm generation by the Hopfield neural networks
and to study the effects of noise on their activities, we investigated
the behaviors of the networks with symmetric and asymmetric
interneuron connections. The neural network under the study consists
of 10 identical neurons. For symmetric (fully connected) networks all
interneuron connections aij = +1; the interneuron connections for
asymmetric networks form an upper triangular matrix with non-zero
entries aij = +1. The behavior of the network is described by 10
differential equations, which are solved numerically. The results of
simulations demonstrate some remarkable properties of a Hopfield
neural network, such as linear growth of outputs, dependence of
synchronization properties on the connection type, huge
amplification of oscillation by the external uniform noise, and the
capability of the neural network to transform one type of noise to
another.
Abstract: Possible advantages of technology in educational
context required the defining boundaries of formal and informal
learning. Increasing opportunity to ubiquitous learning by
technological support has revealed a question of how to discover
the potential of individuals in the spontaneous environments such as
social networks. This seems to be related with the question of what
purposes in social networks have been being used? Social networks
provide various advantages in educational context as collaboration,
knowledge sharing, common interests, active participation and
reflective thinking. As a consequence of these, the purpose of this
study is composed of proposing a new model that could determine
factors which effect adoption of social network applications for usage
in educational context. While developing a model proposal, the
existing adoption and diffusion models have been reviewed and they
are thought to be suitable on handling an original perspective instead
of using completely other diffusion or acceptance models because of
different natures of education from other organizations. In the
proposed model; social factors, perceived ease of use, perceived
usefulness and innovativeness are determined four direct constructs
that effect adoption process. Facilitating conditions, image,
subjective norms and community identity are incorporated to model
as antecedents of these direct four constructs.
Abstract: In order to make environmental test centrifuge balance
automatically and accurately, reduce unbalance centrifugal force,
balance adjusting system of centrifuge is designed. The new balance
adjusting system comprises motor-reducer, timing belt, screw pair,
slider-guideway and four rocker force sensors. According to
information obtained by the four rocker force sensors, unbalanced
value at both ends of the big arm is computed and heavy block is
moved to achieve balance adjusting. In this paper, motor power and
torque to move the heavy block is calculated. In full load running
progress of centrifuge, the stress-strain of screw pair composed by
adjusting nut and big arm are analyzed. A successful application of the
balance adjusting system is also put forwarded. The results show that
the balance adjusting system can satisfy balance require of
environmental test centrifuge.
Abstract: Perishable goods constitute a large portion of retailer inventory and lose value with time due to deterioration and/or obsolescence. Retailers dealing with such goods required considering the factors of short shelf life and the dependency of sales on inventory displayed in determining optimal procurement policy. Many retailers follow the practice of using two bins - primary bin sales fresh items at a list price and secondary bin sales unsold items at a discount price transferred from primary bin on attaining certain age. In this paper, mathematical models are developed for primary bin and for secondary bin that maximizes profit with decision variables of order quantities, optimal review period and optimal selling price at secondary bin. The demand rates in two bins are assumed to be deterministic and dependent on displayed inventory level, price and age but independent of each other. The validity of the model is shown by solving an example and the sensitivity analysis of the model is also reported.
Abstract: Commercial hydroxyapatite (HA) was reinforced by
adding 2, 5, and 10 wt % of 28.5%CaO-28.5%P2O5-38%Na2 O-
5%CaF2 based glass and then sintered. Although HA shows good
biocompatibility with the human body, its applications are limited to
non load-bearing areas and coatings due to its poor mechanical
properties. These mechanical properties can be improved
substantially with addition of glass ceramics by sintering. In this
study, the effects of sintering hydroxyapatite with above specified
phosphate glass additions are quantified. Each composition was
sintered over a range of temperatures. Scanning electron microscopy
and x-ray diffraction were used to characterize the microstructure and
phases of the composites. The density, microhardness, and
compressive strength were measured using Archimedes Principle,
Vickers Microhardness Tester (at 0.98 N), and Instron Universal
Testing Machine (cross speed of 0.5 mm/min) respectively. These
results were used to indicate which composition provided suitable
material for use in hard tissue replacement. Composites containing 10
wt % glass additions formed dense HA/TCP (tricalcium phosphate)
composite materials possessing good compressive strength and
hardness than HA. In-vitro bioactivity was assessed by evaluating
changes in pH and Ca2+ ion concentration of SBF-simulated body
fluid on immersion of these composites in it for two weeks.