Showing papers in "International Journal of Research in 2014"

Human Resources and the Resource Based View of the Firm

Abstract: The resource-based view RBV of the firm has influenced the field of strategic human resource management SHRM in a number of ways

Java Agent Development Framework

Abstract: It is a distributed agents platform, which has a container for each host where we run the agents.

SME firms performance in Nigeria: Competitive advantage and its impact

Abstract: Small and medium enterprises (SME) performance forms a very important part of the Nigerian economy. The SME sector is a major engine which encourages the growth of jobs and wealth creation in the country’s economic system. SMEs performance act as a significant part that is linked to the strengthening and enhancement of the development of the country. The SME performance and growth in manufacturing, agriculture, services, and so on, has been considered as the engine drive and has contributed to the Nigeria economy. Sustainable growth and the increase of SME performance, competitiveness will open numerous doors for employment opportunities, tangible and intangible assets (investment) in the environment. The SME sector has developed rapidly over these years. The major aim of this paper is to look into the SME sustainable competitive advantage and emphasis on its growing importance. Likewise, some guidelines were offered in order for SMEs to reach performance and competitive advantage. In a wider perspective, this paper would provide some available conclusions and concrete recommendations. Besides, this work will serve as an information cause that will promote and orient SMEs performance towards competitive advantage. Through this way, it will contribute to the continuous promotion and active growth of SMEs, as easily to increase the level of the firm’s performance and business competitiveness in Nigeria.

Functionally Graded Materials: A Critical Review

Abstract: With the development of new industries and modern processes, many structures serve in thermal environments, resulting in a new class of composite materials called functionally graded materials (FGMs). FGMs were initially designed as thermal barrier materials for aerospace structural applications and fusion reactors.

System Architecture Directions for Networked Sensors

Abstract: Technological progress in integrated, low-power, CMOS com-munication devices and sensors makes a rich design space of networked sensors viable.

Gender and Culture

Abstract: The relationships between Gender and Culture have played a significant role in the evolution of human civilization.

The confidence and competence in information and communication technologies of practitioners, parents and young children in the Early Years Foundation Stage

Abstract: A review of evidence on the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in the early years was commissioned by the British Educational Communications and Technology Agency. Views of practitioners, parents and children were obtained and practitioner ICT audits completed. Most young children grow up in media-rich digital environments in which they actively engage. Family members and practitioners are positive and actively promote use of ICT through ongoing socio-cultural practices. There appears to be a gap between children’s access to and use of ICT at home and in early years settings, and between state-maintained and non-maintained sectors. Training implications are marked. Cost of purchase, maintenance and replacement of age-appropriate digital technology remains a challenge and the development of active pedagogy to maximise benefits of technological advances must generate imaginative solutions.

Present Scenario of Higher Education in Indian System of Education- A Need to Improve Its Quality

Abstract: Higher education provides people with an opportunity to reflect on the critical social, economic, cultural, moral and spiritual issues facing humanity. It contributes to national development through dissemination of specialized knowledge and skills. It is therefore, a crucial factor for survival. Being at the apex of the educational pyramid, it has also a key role in producing teachers for the education system. In the context of the unprecedented explosion of knowledge, higher education has to become dynamic as never before, constantly entering uncharted areas. The fact that our higher educational institutions are churning out millions of graduates who are unemployable speaks of the need for improving the quality of education in our country. In the present paper an attempt has been made to figure out the existing defects in the present system of higher education in India and what measures should be taken to improve the quality of higher education.

On Actor-Network Theory

Abstract: The paper describes actor-network theory, an approach originating in studies of science and technology, and how it might be used in studying technological projects. It also offers the theory of innovation translation, informed by actor-network theory, as an alternative to innovation diffusion in understanding issues of information systems implementation. As it is helpful for information system.

Determinants of Foreign Direct Investment in India

Abstract: The theories of FDI explain why firms undertake foreign investment rather than export to overseas markets but it is equally important to understand where these investments flow or what determine foreign investment flows to a particular region.

The Role of Different Types of Information Systems In Business Organizations- A Review

Abstract: For the last twenty years, different kinds of information systems are developed for different purposes, depending on the need of the business . In today’s business world, there are varieties of information systems such as transaction processing systems (TPS), office automation systems (OAS), management information systems (MIS), decision support system (DSS), and executive information systems (EIS), Expert System (ES) etc . Each plays a different role in organizational hierarchy and management operations. This study attempts to explain the role of each type of information systems in business organizations.

Impulse buying behavior of Vietnamese consumers in supermarket setting

Abstract: The goal of this paper is to identify factors affecting consumer impulse buying behaviors at supermarkets in Vietnam. Impulse purchase or impulse buying portrays purchases that shopper makes without any intention planned before shopping trip. This study attempts to analyze the impact of various variables extracted from internal, external, demographics, social perspectives on consumer impulse buying behavior. Quantitative questionnaire is used to measure responses of participants. The statistical analysis method employed in this study is Factor Analysis using SPSS software. This consumer behavior is on a great rise due to pricing strategies, store characteristics, situational factors and promotional activities. At the end of this paper, a set of suggestions is outlined to be investigated in the subsequent research works.

Evaluation of heavy metals contamination and its genotoxicity in agricultural soil of Amritsar, Punjab, India.

Abstract: The present study investigated physico-chemical parameters as well as the heavy metal in agricultural soil samples collected from four different zones of Amritsar, Punjab (India). pH of different soil samples ranged from 7.4 to7.8 whereas in control pH was found to be 6.6. Alkalinity was observed in the range of 201-354 meq100g -1 . The content of nitrate (NO3 - ) ranged from 0.25-0.33 mg/kg -1 slightly less than control (0.38 mgKg -1 ). A wide variation of metal concentration was observed in all studied samples. Fe (2809-5692 mgKg -1 ) was found one of the predominant heavy metal in soil followed by Zn (73-320 mgKg -1 ) Mn (154-194 mgKg -1 ), Pb (7.7-118 mgKg -1 ), Ni (9.67-24.32 mgKg - 1 ), Cu (8.4-24 mgKg -1 ) and Cd (0.55-1.39 mgKg -1 ). All the samples also induced significant genotoxicity in Allium cepa test system. The levels of all essential and toxic metals were compared well with other parts of the world.

Determinants of Severe Acute Malnutrition among under Five Children in Shashogo Woreda, Southern Ethiopia- A Community Based Matched Case Control Study

Abstract: Severe acute malnutrition is one of the major killers of under five children in developing countries including Ethiopia. However, little information is known about the determinant factors of severe acute malnutrition, which is obtained from hospital based studies is available. Hence this study was aimed to identify the determinants of severe acute malnutrition in Shashogo woreda, Southern Ethiopia.

Critiquing the pursuit of island sustainability: Blue and Green, with hardly a colour in between

Abstract: This article critiques a focus on ‘sustainable development’ which highlights a liveable ‘future’ without paying adequate attention to what, we argue, are more pressing issues for a liveable present. We contend that, while inherently commendable, the thrust of many current initiatives related to sustainable development, especially those associated with climate change, promote an ethos which crowds out other pressing policy pursuits with more immediate relevance – although often also associated with sustainable development – such as health, basic education, poverty reduction, and productive employment and livelihoods. Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are at the forefront of these initiatives, given their prominence in discussions on sustainable development, but especially climate change, alongside the basic challenges that they face in maintaining viable economies. Long-term thinking and planning is needed and welcomed; but we may now have gone too far in the opposite direction in terms of aiming for sustainable development in, and for, a distant future that emphasises climate change, without better balancing of that concern with the pressing needs of the moment.

PARASITIC INSECTS AND MITES AS POTENTIAL BIOCONTROL AGENTS FOR A DEVASTIVE PEST OF TOMATO, Tuta absoluta Meyrick (LEPIDOPTERA: GELECHIIDAE) IN THE WORLD: A REVIEW

Abstract: The tomato leafminer Tuta absoluta is extremely difficult to control using chemical insecticides because larvae mine within plant tissue and are thus protected at least from contact insecticides. Also, larvae have an ability to develop resistance to insecticides and thus its control is quite challenging. Thus, parasitoids are a very important component of the natural enemy complex of T. absoluta and have been the most common type of natural enemies introduced for biological control of it. In the present review, the importance of different egg-, larval- and pupal-parasitoids, belonging to several insect orders and families, as well as some Pyemotidae mites, was discussed. Research efforts and application works for biocontrol of T. absoluta in European, North African and Middle East countries, as well as the native home, South American countries, had been reviewed. Some considerations were presented, such as the parasitism mechanisms, factors affecting the parasitic efficiency, interference or interaction between parasitoids and some other natural enemies, side-effects of synthetic and botanical pesticides on parasitoids and conservation of indigenous natural parasitoids of T. absoluta.

Removal of nitrate ion from aqueous solution by modified ethiopian bentonite clay

Abstract: The use of nitrogen fertilizers in agricultural areas, animals manure and wastewaters are the major reasons for surface and ground water pollution with nitrate ions. World Health Organization (WHO) and US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) set maximum acceptable concentration of nitrate ions in drinking water to be 50 mg/L and 45mg/L respectively. Drinking waters having nitrate ions concentration exceeding this value is considered as polluted water and causes diseases such as methemoglobinemia and stomach cancer. Under this study, the ability of Ethiopian acid activated bentonite clay adsorbent media for nitrate ions removal from aqueous solutions has been investigated. The clay was taken from Gewane area, Afar region, Northeastern Ethiopia, activated with 2M HCl and characterized by FT-IR Spectroscopy. The adsorption properties of activated clay were then studied in terms of adsorbent dose, pH, temperature, contact time, and contaminant concentration via batch experiment method. The percentage of nitrate ion removal from aqueous solution using this clay was determined to be 80% at an optimium condition of initial concentration, adsorbent dose (acid activated bentonite clay), contact time and pH determined. Experimental data has been analyzed using the Freundlich and Langmuir isotherms that the data best fits with Langmuir model.

Presentation of Research on School-Age Educare in Sweden

Abstract: In this article a background to the growing need of establishing school-age educare as a field of research in Sweden is presented. Firstly a short review of the history of the school-age educare is given and then a description of how the activity is organized today. Some examples of studies produced within this field are presented. Both accomplished studies and ongoing research are given account for. The article concludes with actions suggested for covering existing gaps of research.

A new estimate of carbon for Bangladesh forest ecosystems with their spatial distribution and REDD+ implications

Abstract: In tropical developing countries, reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+) is becoming an important mechanism for conserving forests and protecting biodiversity. A key prerequisite for any successful REDD+ project, however, is obtaining baseline estimates of carbon in forest ecosystems. Using available published data, we provide here a new and more reliable estimate of carbon in Bangladesh forest ecosystems, along with their geo-spatial distribution. Our study reveals great variability in carbon density in different forests and higher carbon stock in the mangrove ecosystems, followed by in hill forests and in inland Sal (Shorea robusta) forests in the country. Due to its coverage, degraded nature, and diverse stakeholder engagement, the hill forests of Bangladesh can be used to obtain maximum REDD+ benefits. Further research on carbon and biodiversity in under-represented forest ecosystems using a commonly accepted protocol is essential for the establishment of successful REDD+ projects and for the protection of the country’s degraded forests and for addressing declining levels of biodiversity.

Teacher as a role model and its impact on the life of female students

Abstract: In daily life of students there are many factors that play a vital role in their lives but the major aspect that plays a crucial role in building there personality and in increasing their academic capabilities is a teacher. A teacher is a role model if he/she is attentive towards student’s academic growth and gives equally importance to their personal growth. This study conducted teacher’s social behavior related with student’s personality and teacher’s performance related with student’s academics. Multiple sampling designs including stratified random sampling and cluster random sampling are used; a sample of 300 was selected from students of APWA College, Queen Mary College and Kinnaird College belonging to different socio economic status. A cross sectional study using structured questionnaire was carried out including basic information. Univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out on the data collected. The findings demonstrated that out of 300 respondents 212 students take their teachers as a role model. The results of the study showed that there is a need for both teachers and students to become more socially attached with each other by keeping outside classroom relations and better understanding of each other.

Children’s physical activity in day care and preschool

Abstract: The purpose of the study was to investigate the dynamics of physical activity (PA) in day care and preschool. The participants were 823 Finnish 1–7-year-old children from 50 day care centres and preschools. The research methods were systematic observation, evaluation of children’s skills and interviews with children. Altogether 18,366 observations were collected. Vygotsky’s concept of the ‘zone of proximal development’ is redefined in relation to PA. The results of the study show that environmental factors, and specifically peers, do indeed play a significant role in enhancing PA among children. There are cogent reasons for paying more attention to the dynamics of children’s PA. Furthermore, there is reason to ponder extensively how to provide opportunities for PA and, more precisely, the development of motor competence in the day care and preschool context.

Commercial Banks’ Credit and SMEs Development in Nigeria: An Empirical Review

Abstract: Access to credit is crucial for the growth and survival of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), this is because the ability of SMEs to grow depend highly on their potentials to invest in restructuring, innovation, etc. And all of these investments need capital, and therefore access to finance.

Finite Element Analysis of Seepage through an Earthen Dam by using Geo-Slope (SEEP/W) software

Abstract: In this research work, finite element approach is employed to solve the governing differential equations pertaining to seepage through body of dam its foundation. For this purpose, the foremost focal point is discretization of domain into finite elements by placement of imaginary nodal points and discretization of governing equations into a system of equations; an equation for each nodal point or element and solving it for the unknown variables.

BEE (Bureau of energy efficiency) and GREEN BUILDINGS

Abstract: Green buildings are designed to reduce the overall impact of the built environment on human health and the natural environment. This paper enumerates the various methods of bringing in energy efficiency. It introduces the Bureau of Energy Efficiency BEE (a national body) and presents an overview of the “Energy Conservation Building Code” (ECBC). In this paper, a case study of IIT Kanpur has been presented in detail. Despite its huge campus spread over an area of 4.3 square kilometres (1,100 acres) surprisingly, it uses only 605 kWh/m2 per year. Some more “Energy Efficient” buildings of India are also mentioned . In view of fast depleting energy reserves, energy conservation is need of the hour. Efficiently design homes and offices can cut energy bill substantially. The Bureau of Energy Efficiency, the relevant code and the Star Rating program, will go a long way to encourage energy efficiency. This program will help identify the careless owners who are frittering away the precious sources of energy. Continued support from the State Governments and the private sector is essential for the success of the program. We need to wake up and act- and act fast before it is too late. Looking to the dwindling sources of energy and the danger of climatic deterioration caused by high carbon emissions, energy efficient buildings are necessity of today.

An Empirical Study on the Efficiency of College Teachers and their Attitude in Teaching in Kancheepuram District

Abstract: The quality of teaching depends upon the dedication of the teachers towards their profession and the improvisation of it depends upon the training, both pre-service and in-service they receive when they undergo the period of probation. A teacher is expected to have subject competency as well as linguistic competency. The main objective of the present study has been to find out the efficiency of college teachers and their attitude in teaching in Kancheepuram district in relation to certain sociological variables. Sample comprised of 250 primary school teachers in Kancheepuram district. Teacher effectiveness scale developed by Umme Kusum and Miller attitude towards teaching scale was used for the present study. Mean, SD and t-test were used for analysis of the data.

Application ofnaturaldyes on textile: a review

Abstract: This paper reviews the characterization and chemical/biochemical analysis of natural dyes. Extraction of colorants from different natural sources, effects of different mordents and application of binary mixture of natural dyes. Natural dyes are different sources such as plant dyes animal dyes mineral dyes etc. and characteristics of natural dyes such as chemical/biochemical analysis by using UV-visible spectroscopic and chromatographic analysis.

Comparison of SEEP/W Simulations with Field Observations for Seepage Analysis through an Earthen Dam (Case Study: Hub Dam – Pakistan)

Abstract: The present research work is designed to model seepage analysis of an earthen dam by using finite element approach. For this purpose a research study was conducted on Hub dam, which is a small earthen dam located at about 35 km, north-east of Karachi city , Pakistan. In the study the amount of seepage through and under body of the main dam is computed, profile of phreatic line is simulated for different scenarios and compared with the observed data. For the purpose of this study, SEEP/W the sub-program of Geo-Slope software is used. Data pertaining to design parameters and dam geometry are given as input to the software to compute the unknown parameters. Finally results are validated by comparing them with the observed data. The main dam is composed of three different kinds of reaches ; therefore in this research only one reach with core wall i.e. Zoned Embankment Section at CH: 48+75 is studied. Computations are carried out for three different scenarios, that is: maximum pool level, normal pool level, and minimum pool level. Calibration of the material properties is made on the basis of minimization of error while comparing observed hydraulic heads with the simulated ones. The flownet has been drawn comprising of streamlines, equipotential lines, velocity vectors showing dominant flow (seepage) field and phreatic line depicting seepage behavior of the Hub dam. The seepage flux (discharge), exit gradient and maximum seepage velocity for the entire pond level scenarios and for all the selected section are computed. At lowest pond level minimum seepage occurs at highest pond level maximum seepage occurs. It is also ascertained that the exit gradient is within the permissible limits that is that less than unity for all the scenarios; thus it also conforms to safety criteria of the dam. Seepage velocities for the entire pond level scenarios and for the selected section are computed; at lowest pond level minimum seepage velocity is observed and at highest pond level maximum velocity occurs. Residual head dissipation trend is modeled and predicted for all the sections of interest for different scenarios. At selected section i.e. Zoned Embankment Section at CH: 48+75 for low pond level slightly smoother dissipation rate is followed, however, at higher pond levels a somewhat rapid dissipation of head occurs at sheet pile positions; this of course signifies the effectiveness of sheet pile. Initially dead dissipation follows somewhat smoother trend, however at the position of core wall and sheet pile an abrupt rise in dissipation of head is exhibited, which again signifies the effectiveness of the two seepage control devices. Validation of any model is made by comparing simulated results against the observed ones; this is done to ensure model applicability. If this comparison shows a good coincidence, then the model developed can be recommended for practice. Table 4 contains the data pertaining to observed piezometeric heads and simulated ones and the relative error. Performance of the model is assessed evaluated on the basis of statistical parameters, i.e. mean error, root mean square error and model efficiency; these results are presented in Table 6.

A Review of the Impact of Public Relations on Tourism Industry: Developed Model of Public Relations in Macedonian Tourism

Abstract: This article refers to touristic economy of the Republic of Macedonia, particularly to the meaning and necessity of tourism in the creation and development of applicable PR model in the touristic economy of the country. From subject-concept point of view, the focus of research in this study is oriented towards the PR influence on Macedonian tourism, in terms of achieving better results in touristic economy as an important economic branch and the necessary development of applicable PR model in Macedonian tourism.

Effect of Different Levels of NPK Fertilizers on the Growth and Yield of Greenhouse Cucumber (Cucumis Sativus) By Using Drip Irrigation Technology

Abstract: The present research work was conducted to find out the cucumber response to water soluble NPK (20-20-20) compound fertilizer by using drip irrigation technology in available agro-ecological conditions of Western Region of Abu Dhabi – UAE. In this study different production scenarios were studied for the safe keeping of the greenhouse cucumbers. It is one of the most important summer vine vegetable crop, and been rated suitable for greenhouse cultivation in comparison with traditional agricultural practices. Due to such controlled atmospheric conditions in greenhouses the yield and quality of cucumbers maintained. Greenhouse is composed of a network of Galvanized pipes and plastic sheets.

Impact of Perceived Organizational Support on Organizational Citizenship Behavior: Empirical Evidence from Pakistan

Abstract: Perceived organizational support is playing a crucial role in management to boost up employees’ confidence and it’s a motivational mechanism to make your employees loyal with organization. This study investigated the influence of Perceived Organizational Support on Organizational Citizenship Behavior in banking and education sector of Pakistan. For data collection, questionnaire survey used. Sample of 250 respondents received by using non probability convenient sampling technique within a period of two months. Results illustrate that perceived organizational support has positive and strong influence and positive correlation with Organizational Citizenship Behavior. Moreover, this research bestow the just round the corner and guidance to the management of education and banking sector that by providing rational and moderately good organizational support to employees, the competence of these sectors can be improved. At the last of this article, limitations of research, implications and suggestions for further research have also been included.