Showing papers in "International journal of innovation and scientific research in 2014"

A Comparative Study of Data Mining Process Models (KDD, CRISP-DM and SEMMA)

Abstract: Data Mining is about analyzing the huge amount data and extracting of information from it for different purposes. From the last few years the field of Data Mining becomes prominent and makes huge growth. There are different standard models for data mining. All these models are defined in sequential steps. These steps help in implementing the data mining tasks. In this paper we will compare these models and give brief understanding about them.

Various Image Enhancement Techniques - A Critical Review

Abstract: Image Enhancement is very essential and important technique used in image processing. The role of image enhancement is to improve the content visibility of an image. Images in different fields like medical, satellite images, aerial images and even real life pictures suffer from poor contrast and high noise. It is important to only enhance the contrast and reduce the noise to increase image quality. The enhancement technique differs according to various aspects and they can be broadly classified into two categories: Spatial Domain and Frequency domain based techniques. This paper presents a review of image enhancement processing techniques in spatial domain. Also we have categorized processing methods based representative techniques of Image enhancement. Thus this paper helps to evaluate various image enhancement techniques.

The Effect of Using Discovery Learning Strategy in Teaching Grammatical Rules to first year General Secondary Student on Developing Their Achievement and Metacognitive Skills

Abstract: The research problem is summarized in the shortage of the teaching methods used in the teaching of grammatical rules that led to a decline in the level of achievement and failure in the development of skills beyond the knowledge of students in the first grade secondary illustrated by numerous students.

Effect of Drying Temperature on Some Quality Attributes of Mango Slices

Abstract: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of three drying temperatures (60, 70 and 80°C) on quality attributes of mango slices. The investigated quality attributes were: color change and rehydration ratio of dried mango slices. Result showed that drying temperatures had great effect on the quality attributes of mango slices. The color was measured from the surface and expressed in the Hunter L*a*b* system. Moreover, the total color change (?E), chroma (color saturation), hue angle and browning index (BI) were determined. L* and b* parameters were found to decrease as affected by drying temperature and drying time, whereas a* parameter increases. Results also indicated that drying time has significant effect on color change and rehydration ratio. The lowest total color change and highest rehydration ratio were obtained at drying air temperature of 80°C then 70°C and finally 60°C with drying time of 3,5 and 7 hours, respectively. In contrast to common practice, drying at elevated air temperature (80°C), instead of 60°C for a longer time, was optimal, since significant color changes of mango slices were not observed. Moreover, at increased temperature, drying time was considerably shortened from about 7 h to 3h, resulting in significant extension of drying capacity.

The Socio-Economic Implications of Boko Haram Insurgency in the North-East of Nigeria

Abstract: The continued bombings, killings, kidnappings and the destruction of property by Boko Haram have become of great concern to the Nigerian government and the international community. The activities of Boko Haram have effects on the economy and the people. This paper examines the implications of the operations of the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast of Nigeria. Findings from the study indicates that the atrocities of Boko Haram have severe implications on the economy and social lives of the people of the northeast where the activities of the sect is concentrated. The paper recommends for the insurgency to come to an end, the government needs to provide employment to the teeming youths, dialogue with the sect if the need arises and equip the military with sophisticated gadgets in order to confront Boko Haram foot soldier.

Removal of Methylene Blue Dye from Textile Wastewater using Activated Carbon Prepared from Rice Husk

Abstract: Textile industry is one of those industries that consume large amounts of water during the manufacturing process and, also, discharge great amounts of effluents with synthetic dyes to the environment causing public concern. Azo dyes are applied in textile industries, are considered to be serious health-risk factors. Several physico-chemical and biological methods for dye removal from wastewater have been investigated in the last decades. But, these treatment techniques need posterior separation process which significantly affects the economic performance of the plant. On the other hand, adsorption is one of the efficient methods and needs low capital and operational costs. Thus, this study investigates the potential use of low cost activated carbon prepared from the rice husk for the removal of Methylene Blue wastes. The rice husk was collected form rice mill and washed repeatedly until the dirty was eliminated. Then, it was heated at 500 oC for 30 min and the activated carbon had been activated with H2SO4 in order to make the carbon porous. A batch experiments were carried out in order to investigate the effect of various parameters. Uv-visibile spectrometer was used for the analysis of final concentration of the effluent. Experimental results have shown that, the amount of dye adsorption increased with decreasing the initial concentration, adsorbent dosage, contact time and temperature. Over 99% removal efficiency were achieved for the given dosage. With respect pH, pH value of 8-10 was found to be the optimal value.

Prospects and Challenges of Informal Settlements and Urban Upgrading in Abuja

Abstract: The paper studies Informal settlements in Abuja, from the analytical framework of poverty and homelessness. The environmental, socio-economic and cultural feature associated with population growth, is, highlighted to underscore the severity of issues. Drawings lessons from experiences of squatter settlement in Brazil, India, South Africa and other developed economies; paper underscores Government policies and interventions in upgrading 'slums' and 'squatters' settlements. The paper in conclusion suggests needs to improve and upgrade the general quality of the physical conditions of the environment of urban slums and squatters' settlements in the developed edges (Karu, Durumi, Nyanya, and Maraba) of Abuja, Nigeria.

Study on effect of different parameters on adsorption efficiency of low cost activated orange peels for the removal of methylene blue dye

Abstract: Activated orange peels as an adsorbent was prepared by agitating in H2SO4 for 12 hours and washed with distilled water and again socked with2%NaHCO3 solution over night to remove excess acidity. It was calcined at a temperature of 350oC for 2:30 hours. Then the effect of adsorbent dosage, initial dye concentration, and contact time and particle size on the adsorption efficiency of the sample was tested using methylene blue as a target pollutant. The adsorption efficiency of the adsorbent for the removal of methylene blue was found as follows. adsorbent dosage and contact time was found to be directly proportional to the efficiency of adsorption of the prepared sample but up to a certain optimum value (82, 88.01 respectively) while initial dye concentration and particle size was found to be inversely related but still up to optimal amount or size.

Design of lee's disc electrical method for determining thermal conductivity of a poor conductor in the form of a flat disc

Abstract: This experiment was carried out to design modified Lee's disc method of measuring the thermal conductivity of a poor conductor in the form of a flat disc. The modified Lee's disc set-up is equipped with various types of electrical device and probes. The components used to implement the design were chosen because of their ability to withstand high voltage and temperature levels. Most of these instruments are utilized in industrial settings. The designed instrument was used to test the thermal conductivity of some low insulating materials. The value of k which is the rate of flow of heat through a material per unit area per unit temperature gradient was determined. The units of k are Wm-1K-1 (from Js-1m-1K-1). The thermal conductivity of the selected materials was tested to validate the effectiveness of the modified design.

The Intelligence of E-CRM Applications and Approaches on Online Shopping Industry

Abstract: E-CRM (electronic customer relationship management) is a derivation from CRM techniques which influenced direct marketing technology and call centre to promote massively created products and services to small sub-segments of market. When CRM techniques are incorporated in e-commerce environment it becomes E-CRM which involves building a strong and sustainable customer relationship by using Internet. It is a strategy which is purely based on Internet and software development, it requires to create essential integrated software suite to deal with all kinds of customer related issues like customer services, sales and marketing field support. The essential parts of E-CRM are to focus on building new customer base, segmentation of high valued customers, enhancing the profitability of existing customer and maximize the value and life of profitable customers.

Ranking the Macro-Level Critical Success Factors of Electronic Medical Record Adoption Using Fuzzy AHP Method

Abstract: Electronic Medical Record (EMR) has been introduced into healthcare organizations in order to incorporate better use of technology, to aid decision making and to facilitate searching for a medical solution. The EMR is an Information Technology (IT) tool supporting the examination, treatment and care of patients. Low adoption of the EMR persists despite the obvious benefits of centralized medical record management. The rate of EMR implementation among physician practices has been slow and limited. This needs those professionals in healthcare organizations to be in the process of changing from the use of paper to maintain medical records into computerized medical record keeping opportunities. The critical users are physicians, which play an important role in success of Health Information Technology (HIT) including EMR. Hence, study regarding individual level of adoption in EMR should be done to understand more about this issue. Hence, the objective of this paper is to finding out the imperative factors in affecting EMR adoption. The macro-level framework evaluated based on Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (F-AHP). Basically, surveys distributed to physicians who has experienced with using EMR technology in three Malaysian public hospitals. Findings showed the most important factors and sub-factors in macro-level context related to adoption of EMR. The results of F-AHP showed that the most important factors are Socio-pol-economic trends and HIS standards and the most important sub-factors are economic trends, standardized data, and political trends.

Impact of Social Media on Personality Development

Abstract: The aim of the study is to examine the impact of social media on personality development of adolescents and to identify social media factors that influence personality development. A qualitative approach has been adopted in order fully explore the subject matter without any constraints. Data was collected using only peer reviewed Journal Articles and articles from book sections. The grounded theory method was used to reach the conclusion. The findings show that use of social media is extreme in adolescents as they use not only for socializing, but also for communication, entertainment, and all the other activities. The four main social media factors that influence personality development include (i) Culture of Popularity, (ii) Unreal Standards of Appearance, (iii) Approval Seeking Behavior, and (iv) Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety. The research has two main limitations. The first limitation is that the study does not make use of primary data in forms of interviews or observation but it was made sure that only primary sources are used. Secondly, the use of qualitative approach which increases researcher bias. The findings of this study can be used to minimize the negative effects of social media on the personality development of adolescents through educational and intervention plans. The findings show that social media has an adverse effect on the personality development of adolescents. The study specifically identifies the four personality factors that are altered by the excessive use of social media. These findings can be used to develop interventions to minimize this negative impact on adolescents.

Systematic Data Management for Real -Time Bridge Health Monitoring Using Layered Big Data and Cloud Computing

Abstract: Current paper presents a layered big data and a real -time decision-making framework for bridge data management as well as health monitoring. There are emergency conditions that prevent timely fixing of bridges damage. At these situations, road use rs are the right decision makers who should directly be informed about the bridge condition. Using this framework, sensors embedded on bridges could be designed to send warning messages to Variable Message Signs and cell phones within a defined region. To address difficulties of real time communication with road users and/or experts in central management office, the emerging technology of big data and cloud computing could be utilized.

A Comprehensive Short Review on Polyurethane Foam

Abstract: Polyurethanes are versatile materials used widely in many applications. Annual production of polyurethanes is increasing day by day. The most important application of polyurethane covering its major market is polyurethane foam. Different type of foaming systems and foaming processes are used for synthesis of foam. There are two major types of polyurethane foam which are flexible foam and rigid foam. This review has been structured to present an overview of different types of foam, foaming systems, and processes used for production of foam. Also major applications of polyurethanes are presented.

Honey Bee Diseases, Pest and Their Economic Importance in Ethiopia

Abstract: The Honey bee (Aphis mellenifera L.) is prone to infected with fungal, bacterial and protozoan pathogenic organisms. Honey bee diseases in Ethiopia include Chalkbrood diseases caused by pathogenic fungi, Ascosphaera aphis, Nosematosis caused by Nosema apis and amoeba caused by a single protozoa malpighamoeba mellificae. A numbers of invertebrate pests belong to insects themselves such as ants, beetle, moths, lice, termites, mites, and large vertebrate animals such as amphibians, reptile, lizards, birds, mammals like honey badgers and mice were recognized in the Ethiopian honey bees. Honey bee diseases, predators and pests are problems for bee keeping practice in Ethiopian. The success of apiculture influenced by these diseases causing pathogenic organisms and various pest animals. Infections of the disease ranging from chronic to highly virulent can result loss of honey bees' population and loss of honey bee products such as honey, wax and also caused honey bees to abscond and death. The economic loss associated with the presence of honey bee diseases and pest was estimated in some works and significant loss was reported. In the present review an attempt has been made to briefly the major honey bee diseases, pests and predators and their rate distribution in the country so as to help the researchers to develop efficient methods for prevention, control and management to improve productivity and the health welfare of bee population.

Women Groups: A Pathway to Rural Development in Nyamusi Division, Nyamira County, Kenya

Abstract: Despite their fundamental socio-economic responsibilities, rural women still have less access to knowledge, assets, services and participation in decision-making. These inequalities affect their ability to carry out critical roles in their communities leading to rural poverty. In Kenya, women groups form the majority of local initiatives. Although women groups are the solution to the local problems, there is little support they receive from the government and other development stakeholders, hence their inability to address rural problems. Besides, there are limited studies particularly in Kenya on women groups' contribution to rural development. This paper is a portion of the outcome of an empirical descriptive study conducted in Nyamusi Division in Nyamira County by the authors. The sample was drawn from ten registered women groups and fifteen informal women groups in the study area. The unit of analysis was a women group. This paper critically examines the relationship that exist between rural community-based approaches (in this case-women groups) and rural development. It also looks at the barriers that hamper women's development efforts in community interventions. This paper concludes that if given opportunity, women have the potential to change their own socio-economic status as well as that of the communities in which they live in for the reason that women groups act as an effective instrument for rural development. Once women groups have sufficient solidarity, experience and unity of purpose in their undertakings, rural development is achieved. This paper recommends policy frameworks that not only promote community-based approaches for rural development, but also encourage sustainability and equal participation of all genders in development.

Evaluation of physical properties and heavy metal composition of manure of some domestic animals

Abstract: Heavy metal content in animal manure could influence soil quality, contaminate crops and cause health risks to both livestock and humans. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physical properties and heavy metal composition of manure of some domestic animals. Manure samples were collected from six domestic animals (goat, cow, donkey, pig, turkey and layer chickens). Standardized protocols were followed for sample preparation and analysis of heavy metal content. The physical properties (physical appearance, moisture content and organic matter) of the samples were observed and recorded. The metals measured were Calcium (Ca), Magnesium (Mg), Iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn), Zinc (Zn), Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Cadmium (Cd) and Nickel (Ni). Concentrations of heavy metals were measured using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The results showed that donkey manure had the lowest Zn, Cu, Pb, Ni and Mg contents. Pig manure had the highest Fe content as well as the lowest Mn, Cd and Ca contents. It is recommended that manure of farm animals be cautiously examined for heavy metal content before its application to the soils of agricultural farms or fields.

Determination of the Anti-nutrient Composition of Ocimum gratissimum, Corchorus olitorius, Murraya koenigii Spreng and Cucurbita maxima

Abstract: The present study investigates the anti-nutrient composition of Ocimum gratissimum, Corchorus olitorius, Murraya koenigii Spreng and Cucurbita maxima following standard methods. Anti-nutritional factors are chemical substances which act to reduce nutrient intake, digestion, absorption and utilization of nutrients which may accumulate in the body to toxic level if the diet is not varied. The qualitative analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids, tannins and phenols in the plant leaves using methanol, ethanol, and petroleum ether as extraction solvents except for saponins in which water was used as the extraction solvent. The differences in mean values were statistically significant at p < 0.05. The highest level of anti-nutrients were found in the following order: flavonoids (7.20 ± 0.15 %) in Cucurbita maxima; cardiac glycosides (13.01±0.03 %) in Ocimum gratissimum; alkaloids (8.82 ± 0.08 %) in Ocimum gratissimum; phytates (0.06 ± 0.00 %) in Corchorus olitorius; haemaglutinins (1.06 ± 0.00 mg/l) in Cucurbita maxima; saponins (9.26 ± 0.20 %) in Cucurbita maxima; tannins (1.45 ± 0.03 %) in Corchorus olitorius; oxalates (1.07 ± 0.07 %) in Murraya koenigii; and phenols (0.68 ± 0.02 mg/l) in Corchorus olitorius. However, the level of anti-nutrients in these plant leaves falls within safe level but should be consumed with care to prevent over-accumulation.

A Comparative Study of Scheduling Algorithms for Multiprogramming in Real-Time Systems

Abstract: Scheduling algorithms allow one to decide which threads are given to resource from moment to moment. Various process scheduling algorithms exist and this paper focuses on the scheduling algorithms used for scheduling processes in a multiprogramming system namely First-Come-First-Served (FCFS), Round Robin (RR), Shortest Job First (SJF), Shortest Remaining Time First (SRTF) and Lottery scheduling. Each algorithm has been discussed and a comparison was made on the basis of eight (8) parameters significant in processes scheduling. In fact, compared to other papers, this research made use of more parameters for the analysis. These parameters include CPU utilization, throughput, waiting time, response time, fairness, starvation, predictability and preemption. From this analysis, we showed that there is actually no scheduling algorithm satisfying the conditions of an ideal algorithm and concluded that further studies which improve current scheduling algorithms need to be done.

Effects of Exotic Eucalyptus Plantation on the Ground and Surface Water of District Malakand, Pakistan

Abstract: Vegetation plays a significant role in determining ground and surface water of an area. The present study was aimed to investigate the impacts of exotic Eucalyptus plantation on the ground and surface water in district Malakand (34.50° N, 71.75° E) Pakistan. Two villages (Kot and Totai) were selected randomly for data collection with a sample size of 25% of the population representing each village. The methods used were questionnaire survey, interviews, water table and discharge rate measurement. The results of the study indicated that 64% springs have been dried out so far in village Kot and 75% in village Totai due to high uptake of water. Eucalyptus plantation has adverse effects on ground and surface water. It was found that Eucalyptus has deepened the water table by 0.762m (0.833 yards) per year in both villages as a result the average depth of water table has reached 20.116 m (22 yards) in village Totai and 15.544 m (17 yards) in village Kot. As a result, some springs have become seasonal depending on rainfall. Results of the current study suggest that ground water and surface water resources should be monitored regularly to determine the protection and regeneration of natural forests and better utilization and improvement of marginal and degraded lands. Moreover introduction of new plant species to an area should be made after careful observation of climatic conditions of the area and keeping in mind the possible effects of these species on the environment.

Mushrooming Village Community Banks in Tanzania: Is it really making a difference?

Abstract: Village Community banks have been reported to benefit the poorer men and women in developing countries since their establishment. In Tanzania, VICOBA and other informal financial institutions have reached 27.9% of rural communities who were initially unserved. Much as the grassroots communities have been served by VICOBA few studies have been conducted in Arumeru Distict to evaluate how VICOBA have benefited the poor. It was from this concern that this study was conducted in June 2012 to assess the services, achievements and challenges pertaining to VICOBA in Arumeru District. A sample of 96 respondents was selected for the study. From the study it was found that Village Community Bank members of Muhorere, Mchele mchele and Mwangaza groups have benefited as members and sole owners of the banks. Members have been empowered in different skills and received different services such as soft loans, savings, shares, trainings and social or emergency loans. The banks on the other hand have achieved a lot since their commencement. There has been an expansion of their member base, their stakeholder base and even their capital base. Nevertheless there have been some hurdles encountered such as illiteracy for some members, inadequate capital and lack of bank offices among others.

Mosquito Species Occurrence and Diversity in Conventional larval breeding sites in Minna metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract: This study was carried out to provide epidemiological information on the distribution and diversity of vector mosquito species in conventional larval breeding habitats in Minna Metropolis, Nigeria. Selected larval habitats were rice-fields, gutters, septic tanks, rain pools and streams, which were sampled weekly during the months of September through November of 2013. The results indicated the occurrence of seven vector mosquito species in the area namely, Culex pipiens pipiens (38.84%), Cx. salinarius (28.78%), Aedes aegypti (10.71%), Anopheles gambiae (7.29%), Cx. restuans (6.52%), Cx. nigripalpus (4.72%), and An. funestus (4.15%). Culex p. pipiens was the most widely distributed species, being absent only in the stream habitats, that was totally devoid of mosquitoes. Cx. nigripalpus and Cx. salinarius were encountered in three of habitat types (i.e., rice-fields, gutters and septic tanks), while Ae. Aegypti was encountered in the gutters and the rain pools. In addition to the rain pools, Cx. Restuans was also collected from gutters. The two anopheline species encountered had similar pattern of larval habitat distribution been found only in rice fields and rain pools. On the whole, the rice-fields and gutters were the most productive larval habitats, in terms of mosquito abundance (28.04% and 29.67% respectively) and diversity (diversity index=0.6940 and 0.4834 respectively). Overall mosquito species diversity for the area was 0.6985, largely contributed by Cx. p. pipiens and Cx. salinarius. The findings of this study suggest serious threat of mosquito-borne diseases to public health, in Minna Metropolis, promoted by anthropogenic alterations of the ecosystem.

Flooding and traffic management in akure (nigeria) metropolitan environment

Abstract: In order to extend areas usable in cities, migrants to cities, often reshape the natural landscapes in various forms. In some cases, they reduce hills, reclaim beach regions, fill valleys and wetlands, and sometimes encroach on river valleys not minding the consequences on the environment. These cultural ways of increasing usable lands have some negative impact on the urban physical environment. The major negative impact is change in the micro-climate of urban environment which manifest in various forms including flooding. Based on the above impact, the paper identified the consequences of flooding in Akure and determines ways by which its menace on traffic congestion could be reduced. Structured questionnaire was administered to residents of Akure living within 200 meter radius to areas where flash flood had been witnessed. Result shows positive correlation between flash flood and traffic congestions in the city. Similarly, accident rates were found to increase during heavy downpour in many of the flood hot spots as many vehicles struggle for right of way. Flash flood on traffic corridor was noted to influence numbers of stranded vehicles in the pool of water. The paper recommends regular clearance of drainages at the on-set of rainy seasons especially in areas prone to flooding. Property developers should ensure that gutters are provided in newly developed areas of cities. The paper also advocated the creation of environmental awareness through both formal and Informal forms of education on how to dispose solid as the hallmark of managing traffic in flooded environment in the study area.

Factors Influencing Delivery Practices among Pregnant Women in Kenya: A Case of Wareng' District in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya

Abstract: Maternal mortality remains to be a major public health concern globally In Kenya, pregnancy and childbirth is still an important cause of mortality among women of reproductive age Due to the various awareness campaigns in Kenya on antenatal clinic attendance in health facilities, high numbers of women are now attending antenatal clinic (ANC) Despite the high rates of ANC attendance, utilization of skilled birth attendants during delivery remains very low Most women still deliver away from health facilities without the assistance of skilled birth attendants This study was conducted in Wareng' district and it is based on the premise that, despite awareness campaigns on skilled birth attendance in the country and in particular Wareng' district, there are other factors that determine delivery practices among pregnant women, which include the women's level of education, income levels, marital status and physical access of health facilities Findings of the study showed that educated women have a better understanding of issues and are able to make their own decisions on matters concerning their health Those women who make more visits to health facilities are constantly reminded during visits on the importance of delivering in the health facility and being assisted by a skilled birth attendant hence, increasing their chances of utilizing the same This study recommends that the health practitioners in the reproductive health departments not only in the study area, but also throughout the country, should work with relevant stakeholders and embrace health education programs to provide more information on ANC through the appropriate communication channels so as to ensure that all women are prepared for safe deliveries

Phytochemical screening and health potentials of Morinda lucida Benth

Abstract: Morinda lucida Benth have been used over the years by rural communities across the tropical region for its medicinal potentials Phytochemicals are bioactive plant constituents produced via secondary metabolism in relatively small amounts Their presence span across several plant species of which Morida lucida is worthy of note To ascertain the phytochemical constituents responsible for the ethno-medical properties of Morinda, a qualitative and quantitative screening of the phytochemical constituents was conducted on some sampled leaves The result of the screening showed that the leaf of Morinda contains alkaloids, tannins, anthraquinones and steroids The implication of these finding is that the presence of anthraquinone in Morinda leaves makes it a potential laxative; while the presence of steroid, alkaloid and tannins explains its ability to treat heart ailments, malaria and diarrhea respectively among other ailments

Metallurgical study of cast aluminium alloy used in hydraulic brake calliper

Abstract: Reports of many functional deficiencies are these days rampant in many aluminium products flooding the Nigeria markets. These emanate from the local aluminium manufacturing, cottage foundry industries and much more from goods imported in the country. The study investigates the metallurgical properties of as-received and cast aluminium alloy samples used in the floating piston/calliper of the automobile hydraulic master brake cylinder. Commercially available aluminium alloy is procured from which callipers were cast and characterised. The study compares the physical properties by Hardness test, microstructural properties using high resolution metallurgical microscope, X-Ray Diffraction, chemical composition using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. The as-received samples are characterised by poor metallurgical qualities such as variation in weight and density, low HBN, low tensile strength, high porosity and sand inclusions from the previous poor casting practices, hence abnormalities result under usage. The aluminium alloy was technically cast at pouring temperature higher than 750 o C using sand mould of high permeability. The casting gave higher HBN values of eutectic-AlSi structured aluminium alloy. The tensile strength calculated as approximate relationship between the hardness and the tensile strength, gave lower 329.09 Mpa and 154.78 Mpa strength for as-received samples as compared with the cast alloy having 353.58 Mpa and 226.49 Mpa tensile strength values respectively.

Evaluating the Critical Factors for Electronic Medical Record Adoption Using Fuzzy Approaches

Abstract: Using Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) has a great possibility for rising physician's performance in their daily work which improves quality, safety and efficiency in healthcare that are slowly being adopted throughout the world. The adoption of EMRs as a new technology in healthcare system is an important issue which has to be scrutinized as well. In physician practices, the rate of EMRs adoption has been slow and restricted in spite of the cost savings through lower administrative costs and medical errors related to EMR systems. Hence, this research is conducted to identify, categorize, and analyze Meso-level dimension which introduced by [27], for the adoption of EMRs in the healthcare context. To collect data, Likert-based and pairwise questionnaires were designed and distributed among the public experts and physicians healthcare organizations. Fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (F-TOPSIS) and Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (F-AHP) was applied involves in quantitative approach in the ranking and weighting of the factors presented in Meso-level dimension framework. As a result, in this study, we develop a Multi Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) framework for healthcare industry improvement and adoption of EMR. The purpose of ranking and weighting using the F-TOPSIS and F-AHP is to inspect which factors are most imperative in EMRs adoption among primary care physicians. Performing F-TOPSIS and F-AHP is as novelty methods in this study for identifying the critical factors of EMRs adoption to assist healthcare organizations specifically hospitals setting in pursuing their key users' behavior towards accepting of this new technology. We find that seven factors, namely time investment, screen/room, hybrid system, planning, resource training, workflow, and weight, are the most influential criteria and strongest drivers in the adoption of EMR in Malaysia's primary care setting.

Major Traits/Qualities of Leadership

Abstract: We live in a world with a population of more than 7.1 Billion, have we ever imagine how many Leaders do we have? Yes, most of us are followers; we live in a world where we follow what have been commanded. The intension of this paper is to equip everyone with some knowledge to know how we can identify who leaders are, are you one of them, and how can we help our-selves and other develop leadership qualities. The Model highlights various traits which are very necessary for leadership.This paper have been investigate and put together after probing almost 30 other research papers. The Principal result we arrived on was that the major/ essential traits which are identified in a Leader are Honesty, Integrity, Drive (Achievement, Motivation, Ambition, Energy, Tenacity and Initiative), Self Confidence, Vision and Cognitive Ability. The Key finding also says that the people with such qualities are not necessary to be in politics, but they are from various walks of life such as major organization, different culture, background, education and ethnicities. Also we found out that just possessing of such traits alone does not guarantee one leadership success as evidence shows that effective leaders are different in nature from most of the other people in certain key respects. So, let us go through the paper to enhance out our mental abilities to search for the Leaders out there.

Environmental impact of indiscriminate waste disposal on river channel in part of akoko-region, ondo state, nigeria

Abstract: The study investigates environmental impact of indiscriminate waste disposal on river channel in part of Akoko-Region, Ondo State, Nigeria. The study further identified; method of waste disposal within the study area, influence of waste disposal method on open space and streams, reaction of water to waste disposal method, environmental problems associated with waste deposited on river channel. Primary data for the study were generated through questionnaire administration and water sample analysis. Sixty questionnaires were systematically distributed in each of the selected sampled locations that included Ise, Akunu, Ikakumo, Ugbe and Ikare settlements based on interval of fourth house from another house. Twenty-two water samples were randomly collected from the selected sampled settlement in order to identify their physical properties using in-situ method. Simple percentages were employed for data analysis while tables and figures presented findings of study. It was observed that wastes are being flushed into streams and thereby affects the odor, taste and coloration of water quality. Flooding activities identified in this area is majorly caused by indiscriminate waste disposal that blocks water drainages. The study therefore recommends provision of waste management strategy that will ensure neatness of environment and avoid pollution of water with effective refuse collection and disposal system within the study area and the related environments.

Analysis of Cloud Computing Vulnerabilities

Abstract: Cloud computing is one of the most emerging networking technology, which has been considered as significantly effective among different types of users. Using cloud computing can be cost effective and organisation can focus more on their unique business idea instead of IT infrastructure or developing software, if they use IaaS or SaaS according to the business needs. However, there are issues with security of critical business data that is stored on cloud service provider's server. There are many concerns in regards to cloud computing security, which have many vulnerabilities and threats. In our previous paper, we have investigated security issues for cloud computing environment, where we have revealed the lack of awareness of cloud service providers to ensure the security. In this paper we have discussed about more threats and vulnerabilities of cloud computing, which cover some of the technical aspects of this burning issue. We would like to propose a cost effective and efficient security model for cloud computing environment after identifying the security risks involved in this sector of modern computing.