International Journal of Innovation in Engineering

Harnessing the Power of Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence: A Roadmap to Data-Driven Success

2023-11-06T21:45:29+0330

This paper explores the intersection of business analytics (BA) and artificial intelligence (AI) and their profound impact on modern enterprises. The integration of advanced analytics techniques and AI algorithms enables organizations to extract valuable insights from vast amounts of data, optimize decision-making processes, and gain a competitive edge in today's data-driven economy. This paper presents an overview of business analytics and AI, their key concepts, methodologies, and applications. Furthermore, it highlights the benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations associated with leveraging these technologies, providing guidance for successful implementation. By harnessing the power of business analytics and AI, organizations can unlock new opportunities for growth, efficiency, and innovation.

Prioritizing policy tools to support development of IoT technologies in Iran

2023-11-02T00:30:28+0330

The Internet of Things is a new perspective on the information technology industry that encompasses all technical, social and economic concepts. Identifying priority application areas for this technology is one of the key points for its effective use. Governments also have a variety of tools for policy-making to support the development of this technology. Therefore, knowing which tool has a higher priority for support is a very important point that can not only prevent the loss of resources but also improve the speed of development. In this research, using the opinion of experts and using the TOPSIS method, an attempt has been made to identify the priority of IoT application areas as well as the priority of government support policy tools in these areas. The results of this research have shown that the important areas in this field respectively are Smart cities, Factories and industries, Shipping, Healthcare, Supply chain management, Buildings and houses and finally Agriculture and animal husbandry. Also Government policy tools respectively, in order of priority, are Financial and Investment Incentives, Flexible regulatory, Tax Exemption, Deploying IOT applications in E-government, Standards and Accreditation, Technology Infrastructure, Macro Policies, Application Infrastructure, Cybersecurity Regulation, Privacy Regulation.

Identifying laxity factors in moving towards emerging innovations (Case study: government organizations)

2023-10-26T21:15:35+0330

Background & Purpose: The literature on novel and emerging innovations has typically focused on describing the hard and technological levels. The aim of the current research is to identify the effective factors in stagnation or uncontrollable delay in the movement of government research organizations in the direction of new and emerging innovations.

Methodology: In terms of philosophy, interpretation and positivism, and in terms of the type of goal, in the category of applied research and research strategy, in the qualitative part, it has used thematic analysis with an inductive approach, and in the quantitative part, the method of partial least squares has been used. The data was collected in the qualitative part using in-depth semi-structured interviews with experts and in the quantitative part of the statistical population of employees of government research organizations, 269 samples were selected as statistical samples using Yamane's formula. In this research, a researcher-made questionnaire was used to collect data, and the technique of hierarchical component models using the partial least squares (PLS) method and SmartPLS4 software was used.

Findings: Based on the analysis of the textual data of the interviews, after the integration of 148 primary identifiers, 35 basic themes, 7 organizing themes and 3 overarching themes were identified.

Conclusion: Lack of supportive culture as the most important cause of lakhti Hanban, including cooperation and working group, fostering a culture of teamwork, sharing ideas and views, not valuing organizational culture, not encouraging the owners of innovative ideas and views, have formed structural indicators of the lack of supportive culture.

Assessment of Security, Health, Safety, and Environmental Sustainability Risk for Toll Road Construction Workers

2023-11-06T17:11:02+0330

Preventing accidents and work-related diseases is an important factor that must be considered in construction activities. The problem that has occurred recently is that the majority of work accidents occur due to human negligence and unsafe actions. Therefore, it is necessary to commit worker awareness in addition to safety, health, security and environmental sustainability (SHSE), where SHSE also pays attention to non worker factors or sustainability after construction to maintenance around the construction site environment. The research aims to analyze the influence of worker behavior on SHSE risk assessments in case studies on the Becakayu Section II-A toll road construction project—quantitative descriptive research method involving 90 workers as respondents. The research results show that SHSE is partially influenced significantly by the variables Employee Knowledge, Employee Attitude, and Employee Action. At the same time, Worker Knowledge, Worker Attitudes and Worker Actions simultaneously have a significant effect on SHSE in the construction of the Becakayu Toll Road section II-A. The research conclusions underline that workers with high knowledge are aware of SHSE behavior, workers' attitudes toward SHSE still require strong commitment, and workers' actions regarding SHSE need to increase awareness of using personal protective equipment to reduce the risk of occupational accidents.

Numerical Simulation on Smoke Spread and Temperature in a Car Park

2023-10-21T13:25:51+0330

The study of temperature and smoke movement in the car park space of the commercial complex was done by Fire Dynamic Simulator code (FDS) with disparate fire accidents. Specification fires of closed car parks were obtained in different fan system conditions. Three scenarios were considered for the ventilation system, which includes the following: the first scenario with no ventilation, the second scenario using a supply fan and an exhaust fan, and the third scenario using a jet fan. Temperature and smoke concentration of a stairwell under various conditions were contrasted. The values were obtained at a height of 1.6 m. Temperature and smoke movement affect the peak of exit people. The results showed that in the first state, temperature and smoke concentration reached 80°C and 0.003 mole/mole in the 1200s after the fire, respectively. In the second state, smoke concentration reached 0.0002 mole/mole in the 1200s, which was 93% better than the first scenario. The temperature also decreased to 51.11 °C in the 1200s. The temperature improved by 36.19% compared to the first state. In the third state, after 1200 seconds, the temperature decreased to 44.72°C. In the third scenario, the smoke concentration was 0.00006 mole/mole, which improved by 57.5% compared to the first scenario.

An Introduction to Lightweight Flexible Nonlinear Composite (LFNLC) and Elastic Composite, Reinforced Lightweight Concrete (ECRLC) as the Cementitious LFNLC

2023-10-21T11:35:49+0330

Here, a new class of high-performance composites, called “Lightweight Flexible Nonlinear Composites (LFNLC)”, has been briefly introduced. This class of composites has its own structural and functional characteristics. Nonlinear behavior in bending and porous or porous-like texture are instances of such characteristics. - Cementitious LFNLC is termed “Elastic Composite, Reinforced Lightweight Concrete (ECRLC)”. The ECRLC provides lightweight beams with substantial strain capability, resilience modulus and toughness in bending, resulting in a considerable increase in bearing capacity while weighing significantly less. The failure mode in low-height and ultra-lightweight beams made of the ECRLC is not compressive and brittle. - This lightweight, flexible composite is a non-monopolistic, versatile and comparatively low-price material. Likewise, the virtues such as resilience and flexibility, workability, lightness, durability, and high formability are important in architecture. - In general, lightweight and integrated construction has a key importance in earthquake resistance. Therefore, the ECRLC can be especially beneficial in earthquake-prone regions. - By taking advantage of the resilience and flexibility of this formable system, it can also be used to build non-brittle reinforced ultra-lightweight and insulation sandwich panels, safe and lightweight guards, and shock-resistant structures. In addition, they are utilizable in some infrastructures and explosion-proof pieces with suitable behavior, resilience, and toughness. - This work presents a practical method for converting a rigid solid into a flexible material with lower density or increasing the elasticity of a flexible material while decreasing the density. Essentially, this method entails creating a porous or porous-like texture in the material, reinforcing appropriately, and providing it with the necessary integrity. (For example, properly dispersing lightweight aggregates all over the reinforced, conjoined matrix can produce a porous-like texture.) By this process, the resilience modulus and toughness in bending rise and the density reduces. - This paper briefly discusses the functional and structural characteristics of LFNLCs, some applications, and a Reproducible example of the ECRLC.

A comparative investigation on different measures to mitigate metro trains induced vibrations from the aspects of Resource, Propagation path, and Receiver

2023-08-16T23:36:57+0330

Preservation of historic buildings is a main challenge in the civil engineering field. One of the main concerns about this subject is to be sure of environmental effects like noise and vibration on monuments. To overcome these problems, a wide range of noise and vibration mitigation measures could be applied. To reach a proper evaluation, in this paper, a detailed assessment is made on the efficiency of various vibration mitigation measures by a series of field tests and sensitivity analysis in Isfahan metro lines close to some vibration-sensitive cultural structures. The sensitivity analysis was performed in possible ranges of vertical stiffness of track superstructure materials. Results showed that vertical track stiffness equal to 5 kn/mm would lead to a 5 db reduction with regarding 4 millimeters limit of rail deflection.

A review on the MCUSUM Charts in Detecting the Shifts of the Process with Comparison Study

2023-08-12T18:12:51+0330

In this paper, we compare the performance of different MCUSUM methods presented in the literature. First, we briefly introduce MCUSUM methods in multivariate normal distribution. In order to evaluate their performance, we present a comparative study with simulation. Furthermore, we compare the average out-of-control run length of MCUSUM methods under different scenarios of mean shifts, standard deviation shifts, and correlation shifts. The results of the simulation study show that MCUSUM methods have different efficiency in detecting process shifts and based on the required application, the appropriate MCUSUM chart should be selected.

Presenting a Mathematical Programming Model for Discovering Eulerian Paths (EP) in Certain Specific Graphs

2023-06-30T12:57:51+0330

In the modern era, graph theory is considered a useful tool for quantification and simplification of various dynamic components in complex systems. By representing elements as nodes and their connections as edges, graph theory can transform anything from urban planning to computer data into a meaningful mathematical language. Nowadays, numerous practical applications have been designed and developed based on graph theory. Graph theory is a branch of discrete mathematics that aims to describe and solve problems with discrete structures using points and edges. One of the problems concerning graphs is the Eulerian path problem. This research demonstrates that this problem can also be investigated from the perspective of Operations Research (OR). In a more general sense, the Eulerian path problem is a routing problem. This paper presents a pure mathematical model to describe the relationship between the variables of the Eulerian path problem. One of the features of the proposed mathematical model is its solvability by most optimization software. Finally, several numerical examples are provided to enhance the understanding of this model, and they are solved using the proposed approach. All the analyses in this research are conducted using one of the most advanced optimization software, MATLAB. The proposed mathematical model provides a systematic and efficient approach to discover Eulerian paths in specific graphs, contributing to the advancement of graph theory and its practical applications.

Evaluating the Shear Strength of Subbase-subgrade Interface Using Large Scale Direct Shear Test

2023-03-16T13:31:42+0330

The inclusion of geogrid in road pavements can improve pavement performance through increasing the lateral confinement, bearing capacity, and overall rigidity of the pavement, as well as reducing the vertical and lateral pavement deformations. The materials used in the present study are: subbase granular materials Type B, two types of subgrade soil; clay and sandy soil, and two nonwoven biaxial geogrids (G1 and G2) used as reinforcing materials. Direct shear testing was adopted by manufacturing a large-scale direct shear apparatus consisted of an upper, square box of size 20 cm × 20 cm × 10 cm, and a lower, rectangular box of size 200 mm × 250 mm × 100 mm is used in the present study. The results show that, for the four normal stresses equal to 25, 50, 75 and 100 kPa, the interface shear stress curves increased and followed similar trend. For clay-subbase interface, installation of geogrid decreases the apparent cohesion of the material from 16.5 kPa (without reinforcement) to be 8 kPa and 13.5 kPa for G1 and G2, respectively. At sand-subbase interface, using geogrid leads to increase the cohesion of the material from 3.5 kPa to be 15.5 and 16 kPa for G1 and G2, respectively. The friction angle increases slightly from 30o (without reinforcement) to be 35o for G1 and G2 when the interface is subbase over clay. While, it decreased from 35.8o to be 32.1o for G1 and G2 at sand-subbase interface. The interaction coefficient for G1 and G2 increased when the normal strength increased at the clay-subbase interface. Otherwise, the behavior of interaction coefficient of the sand-subbase interface appears deferent trend, where increasing normal stress leads to decrease the interaction.

A Different Traditional Approach for Automatic Comparative Machine Learning in Multimodality Covid-19 Severity Recognition

2023-02-15T13:36:02+0330

In March 2020, the world health organization introduced a new infectious pandemic called “novel coronavirus disease” or “Covid-19”, origin dates back to World War II (1939) and spread from the city of Wuhan in China (2019). The severity of the outbreak affected the health of abundant folk worldwide. This bred the emergence of unimodal artificial intelligence approaches in the diagnosis of coronavirus disease but solely led to a significant percentage of false-negative results. In this paper, we combined 2500 Covid-19 multimodal data based on Early Fusion Type-I (EFT1) architecture as a severity recognition model for the classification task. We designed and implemented one-step systems of automatic comparative machine learning (AutoCML) and automatic comparative machine learning based on important feature selection (AutoIFSCML). We utilized our posed assessment method called “Descended Composite Scores Average (DCSA)”. In AutoCML, Extreme Gradient Boost (DCSA=0.998) and in AutoIFSCML, Random Forest (DCSA=0.960) demonstrated the best performance for multimodality Covid-19 severity recognition while 70% of the characteristics with high DCSA were chosen by the internal important features selection system (AutoIFS) to enter the AutoCML system. The DCSA-based designed systems can be useful in implementing fine-tuned machine learning models in medical processes by leveraging the capacities and performances of the model in all methods. As well as, ensemble learning made sounds good among evaluated traditional models in systems.

The Hybrid Intelligent Systems for Non-linear Dynamical Systems

2023-05-14T20:29:03+0330

This research paper focuses on the use of advanced hybrid intelligent systems for modeling, simulation, and control of complex systems with non-linear behavior. Non-linear dynamical systems, which are prevalent in various industries, present unique challenges that require sophisticated solutions. Hybrid intelligent systems, combining multiple innovative techniques from the field of Soft Computing, have shown great promise in addressing these challenges. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive overview of hybrid intelligent systems and their advantages in dealing with non-linear dynamical systems. We explore the integration of different Soft Computing methodologies, such as Neural Networks, Fuzzy Logic, Genetic Algorithms, and Chaos Theory, to create powerful hybrid systems. We present real-world case studies and experimental results to showcase the effectiveness of these hybrid systems in modeling, simulation, and control tasks. Finally, we discuss future research directions and challenges in this exciting field, emphasizing the importance of continued exploration and development of hybrid intelligent systems for non-linear dynamical systems.

Machine Learning Research On Breast And Lung Cancer Detection

2023-03-31T22:17:49+0330

As the diagnosis of these cancer cells at late stages causes greater pain and raises the likelihood of death, the initial-state cancer finding is crucial to giving the patient the proper care and reducing the risk of dying from cancer. The publication offers a chance to research breast and lung cancer detection techniques as well as various algorithms for cancer early detection. With the aid of various image kinds and test results data sets, hybrid approaches are utilized to identify lung and breast cancer based on the size and form of the cells. The basic concept of breast and lung cancer block diagram is also explained in this study, with an emphasis on the difficulties and potential future applications of cancer detection and diagnosis techniques.

Evaluating Blockchain-Based Supply Chain Challenges (A Survey)

2023-04-09T14:57:35+0330

Blockchain technology is an emerging technology that will have a significant impact on the business of organizations. One of the influential areas of blockchain technology is the supply chain sector. Supply chain is a network of people and companies that focuses on the production and distribution of a specific product or service from the stage of primary producers to customers and consumers. Most supply and distribution networks face problems with managing all these components together. Many problems of current supply chains can be solved through blockchain technology; Because blockchain offers us very good and pristine ways to record, transfer and share information. The literature in this field is more focused on the technological sector and pays less attention to other sectors. In this research, it is emphasized the need to pay attention to the relationships between supply chain partners and change management when adopting this technology. Also, the current research identifies some of the challenges of adopting blockchain technology with a comprehensive view for the first time and places these challenges in a new classification. These challenges are classified in the groups of organizational challenges, inter-organizational challenges, external/environmental challenges, and technological challenges.

IoT-based framework for agile supply chain in FMCG industries – a solution for (post-)pandemic times

2023-06-14T22:54:06+0330

In recent decades, with the growth of sustainable development, supply chain agility has become very important as a strategy for competitiveness in the business environment, and supply chain stakeholders expect the role of digital developments and efficient tools in these developments in the supply chain to be considered. One of the most important transformational solutions in today's world is the Internet of Things (IoT). It can accelerate activity in the supply chain and create value in the organization. Due to environmental issues and the increasing speed of changes in customer needs in various industries, such as critical industries where agility has a high impact on people's health, these industries have undergone many changes with the emergence of innovation. Therefore, the whole supply chain path requires im-plementing strategies such as agile and green supply chain and achieving smartness. Thus, emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things play a significant role in the agility and greenness of the en-tire path of the supply chain. Given the importance of the FMCG industry and its impact on people's dai-ly lives, this qualitative study aims to provide a framework for agile supply chain sustainability in the FMCG industry and draw possible implications for a post-pandemic period. This framework embedding the IoT into agility in supply chains can effectively guide FMCG companies in using the Internet of Things to streamline the supply chain.

Business Model of Internet of Things and Blockchain Technology in Developing Countries

2023-04-11T17:09:40+0330

The Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain are new concepts in the world of technology and communication, and communication in them is provided for any creature (human, objects), the ability to send data through communication networks, whether the Internet or intranet. IoT is known as one of the most important axes of future technology and has received considerable attention from all industries. Today, a large number of different parts of the Internet of Things are designed only for specific businesses, which indicates the acceptance of a large number of organizations to use this equipment, and of course, various technologies are also used in this field, including artificial intelligence and cloud computing. The purpose of this research is to investigate the use of Internet of Things in business and its business models. There are also frameworks for the easier development of business models, which this article is the framework of business models in electronic commerce for the program. Internet of Things and Blockchain according to the research/interview literature. These frameworks can be used by developers as a starting point for creating a business model for IoT and blockchain applications in developing countries.

Energy Storage for High Speed Trains: Economical and Energy Saving Evaluation

2023-01-11T21:26:47+0330

Increasing the utilization rate of regenerative braking energy in rail systems is one of the ongoing applications increasing in significance in recent years. In rail systems, braking is made with two ways, mechanical and electrical. While the energy released due to mechanical braking cannot be recovered, the energy released due to electrical braking can be reused as regenerative braking energy. This regenerative braking energy varies according to the dynamics of the system and it can be given back to the grid, stored in storage devices or burned in resistors (it is not desired). This study develops a novelty algorithm within the scope of this objective and provides the calculation of the regenerative braking energy recovery rate and then making a decision for storage or back to grid of this energy. Afterwards, the regenerative braking energy was calculated with the help of this algorithm for Eskisehir-Ankara and Ankara-Eskisehir trips in two different passengers (load) scenarios, using the YHT 65000 high-speed train, which was chosen as a case study. Then, with a decision maker added to this classical regenerative braking energy algorithm, it will be decided whether this energy will be stored or forward back into the grid for the purpose of providing non-harmonic energy to the grid.

Approach to Implementing Health and Environmental Safety System in Construction Projects Using Fuzzy Logic

2022-11-28T15:37:29+0330

The present study's objective is the implementation of the general Health and Safety Executive(HSE) Plan in civil projects; at first, it is required to formulate the Work Breakdown Structure(WBS) in the relevant project with the aim of coming to a proper time plan. In this study, the scope of the implementation of this system includes two items in which the probability and risks of timing projects can come to light.The two substantial items in timing projects are activity and time itself which, in some projects, given the un-clarity of the scope of these two items, one is required to take into consideration the probable and approximate value of such scope with the analysis of the fuzzy expert method. And, one of the methods used for the analysis of the scope of timing probabilities is the use of the practical implications of fuzzy logic in engineering sciences; thus, in the essay at hand, the basic information required for risk assessment, fuzzy logic, the theory of fuzzy numbers, and the method used for analyzing, disintegrating, and composing them, with the purpose of applying them in projects' risk assessment, is presented.Fuzzy logic can be introduced as a powerful and flexible tool for analyzing the scope of risk of projects which is enabled to provide us with the mathematical formulation of the unclear or unspecific parameters and, eventually, represent the analysis and evaluation of data in a numerical format.

Various Deep Learning Techniques Involved In Breast Cancer Mammogram Classification – A Survey

2022-12-25T12:06:31+0330

The most common and rapidly spreading disease in the world is breast cancer. Most cases of breast cancer are observed in females. Breast cancer can be controlled with early detection. Early discovery helps to manage a lot of cases and lower the death rate. On breast cancer, numerous studies have been conducted. Machine learning is the method that is utilized in research the most frequently. There have been a lot of earlier machine learning-based studies. Decision trees, KNN, SVM, naive bays, and other machine learning algorithms perform better in their respective fields. However, a newly created method is now being utilized to categorize breast cancer. Deep learning is a recently developed method. The limitations of machine learning are solved through deep learning. Convolution neural networks, recurrent neural networks, deep belief networks, and other deep learning techniques are frequently utilized in data science. Deep learning algorithms perform better than machine learning algorithms. The best aspects of the images are extracted. CNN is employed in our study to categorize the photos. Basically, CNN is the most widely used technique to categorize images, on which our research is based.

Occupational Risks of Firefighters in Jakarta: Job Safety Analysis Approach

2023-01-04T08:14:48+0330

City Administration Fire and Rescue Service sub-department East Jakarta. It is one of the public organizations which, in carrying out its duties, is very wide with high risk. If this is not handled properly, events caused by unsafe actions and unsafe conditions can harm officers, organizations, and environmental safety. This study aims to analyze and determine the work risks of firefighters at the City Administration Fire and Rescue Service sub-department East Jakarta. The method in this study uses qualitative analysis and quantitative combining methods (numerical data) as well as the facts presented by research informants and then analyzed using the Job Safety Analysis (JSA) method based on the theory of use techniques JSA. The results of this study show that there are four types of work identified as risks in the field assignment section. The conclusion stipulates that the work of firefighters has many potential fire hazards with high severity and a risk rating of 40% in the High-Risk category, 50% in the Moderate Risk category, and as much as 10% risk in the Low-Risk category. Organizations are recommended to evaluate the work process of firefighters by increasing the completeness of PPE and increasing the competence of officers.

Classification of Mammogram Images by Using SVM and KNN

2022-11-29T12:59:36+0330

Breast cancer is a fairly diverse illness that affects a large percentage of women in the west. A mammogram is an X-ray-based evaluation of a woman's breasts to see if she has cancer. One of the earliest prescreening diagnostic procedures for breast cancer is mammography. It is well known that breast cancer recovery rates are significantly increased by early identification. Mammogram analysis is typically delegated to skilled radiologists at medical facilities. Human mistake, however, is always a possibility. Fatigue of the observer can commonly lead to errors, resulting in intraobserver and interobserver variances. The image quality affects the sensitivity of mammographic screening as well. The goal of developing automated techniques for detection and grading of breast cancer images is to reduce various types of variability and standardize diagnostic procedures. The classification of breast cancer images into benign (tumor increasing, but not harmful) and malignant (cannot be managed, it causes death) classes using a two-way classification algorithm is shown in this study. The two-way classification data mining algorithms are utilized because there are not many abnormal mammograms. The first classification algorithm, k-means, divides a given dataset into a predetermined number of clusters. Support Vector Machine (SVM), a second classification algorithm, is used to identify the optimal classification function to separate members of the two classes in the training data

DHVSU Electrical Engineering Department Goes Green: Feasibility of Solar-Powered Building Using an Off-Grid Hybrid Solar Inverter

2022-11-26T10:57:23+0330

This research project unfolds the practicability of utilizing an Off-Grid Hybrid Solar Inverter to power up the Electrical Engineering Building in Don Honorio Ventura State University. To satisfy the aims of this research, a Solar PV System design was used to make use of the solar energy converting it to electrical energy to supply the whole building. This study was guided by doing a load schedule of all the appliances in the whole building to acquire the total power and total energy consumption, using it as a basis for the selection of the required electrical components and computation of the roof area to select a suitable solar panel in order to ensure the functionality of the whole Solar PV System. The raw data gathered was analyzed using formulas to acquire the needed electrical values. The findings resulted in the development and completion of the Solar PV System Design. The last part of the research is the results, discussions, conclusions, and recommendations. These provided the finalization and endorsement of the whole study.

Typology of Pattern Spatial Organization to Finding DNA as Identity in Architecture

2022-12-25T12:03:54+0330

An understanding of the repetition of patterns was carried out by Linnaeus as a taxonomist in 1700a by classifying the shape of flowers in plants while Durand categorized buildings according to their function. Then, Aldo Rossi suggests a typology approach for focusing on the similarities, on the universal and enduring such as the permanent character of cities and buildings. the theory of typology could aid understanding of architecture and a city within its historical and socio-cultural context. Identity search is one of the important goals for the future for a good environment. DNA was the identity of every organism. DNA research has developed in various sciences including biology, archeology, forensic science, political science, social science, psychology, geography, environmental science, sports science, and culture. This genetic science appeared in various sciences, as well as developed in the field of architecture. This study used a qualitative method to discuss how repetition and classifying to finding DNA as identity in architecture. the identity of architecture has DNA that was always passed down from one generation to another.

Organoleptic Evaluation and Physiochemical Characteristics of Powdered Plant Organs of the Traditional Medicinal Plant Caloncoba Echinata

2022-08-25T15:06:13+0430

The organoleptic evaluation and physiochemical characteristics of dried powdered plant organs (leaves, stem bark and root bark) of the traditional medicinal plant Caloncoba echinata have been investigated. Organoleptic character refers to evaluation each of the powdered traditional medicinal plant by colour, odour, taste, texture and particle size. Physico‐chemical studies such total ash, water soluble ash, acid insoluble ash, water and alcohol soluble extract, loss on drying at 105°C of dried powdered plant organs and then heated in a laboratory furnace to 1000oC were carried out. The spicy and bitter taste each of the powdered plant materials during organoleptic evaluation indicated that the plant organs investigated contained alkaloids thus supporting the use of the plant as a traditional pharmaceutical. The colour of the powdered plant organs ranges from light green for the leaves to brown for both the stem and root barks. The colour of the powdered plant material will also help who so ever wish to buy and use the plant material for medicinal purpose. It helps prevent adulteration. The moisture content in the various plant organs investigated is greater in the root bark (33.0%) than in the stem bark (16.463%) and the root bark (13.62%). The ash content in the plant organs investigated was also greater in the root bark (12.509%) than the stem bark (8.7%) and leaves bark (6.4%), thus indicating that the root bark of the plant contained more inorganic compounds. The leaves of the plant contained more water soluble (50.2%) substances than the stem bark (19.6%) and the root bark (6.4%). The root bark contained more water insoluble (93.6%) and acid soluble (84.9%) substances than the leaves and stem bark of the plant organs investigated. The pH of water soluble ash was found to be greater than 7 indicating the basicity of the extracts, with the root bark (pH = 10.70) more basic than the stem bark (pH = 9.10) and leaves (pH = 8.71) respectively. Organoleptic evaluation and physiochemical characteristics carried out on the dried powdered plant organs of the traditional medicinal plant Caloncoba echinata indicated that the plant is suitable for use in Traditional Medicine.

Effect of Corporate Governance on Financial Statement Quality of Listed Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria

2022-08-19T10:47:44+0430

This study examined the effect of corporate governance on financial statement quality of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study specifically examined the effect of board independence and audit committee on financial statement quality of listed deposit money banks in Makurdi, Benue State. of listed deposit money banks in Makurdi, Benue State. The study adopted the cross-sectional survey design involving 86 management staff of 15 of listed deposit money banks in Makurdi, Benue State. The study employed questionnaire as the major instrument for data collection. Result of the pilot study conducted showed that the reliability for each of the constructs was above 0.70. Regression analysis was used in testing the data gathered from the survey. Analysis was done with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 23). Findings revealed that board independence and audit committee have significant positive effect on financial statement quality of listed deposit money banks in Makurdi, Benue State. The study concludes that dimensions of corporate governance are statistically significant in explaining the quality of financial statements of listed deposit money banks in Makurdi, Benue State. The study recommended that directors and managers of listed deposit money banks should be made by law to own certain minimum percentage of shares due to the fact that an increase in managerial ownership will increase financial statement quality. Again we recommend that small audit firms when and if engaged by the of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria for audit work should not compromise the level of disclosure out of fear of losing the contracts.

Prediction of Weld Strength in Power Ultrasonic Spot Welding Process Using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Back Propagation Method

2022-11-08T18:48:18+0330

In this presented work, the employment of artificial neural network (ANN) connected with back propagation method was performed to predict the strength of joining materials that carried out by using ultrasonic spot welding process. The models which created in this study were investigated and their process parameters were analysed. These parameters were classified and set as input variables like for example applying pressure, time of duration weld and trigger of vibrating amplitude while weld strength of joining dissimilar materials (Al-Cu) is set as output parameters. The identification from the process parameters are obtained using number of experiments and finite element analyses based prediction. The results of actual and numerical are accurate and reliability, however its complexity has significant effect due to sensitive to the condition variation of welding processes. Therefore, the needed for an efficient technique like artificial neural network coupled with back propagation method is required to use the experiments as an input data in simulation of ultrasonic welding process, finding the adequacy of modeling process in prediction of weld strength and to confirm the performance of using mathematical methods. The results of the selecting non-linear models show a noticeable potency when using ANN with back propagation method in providing high accuracy compared with other results obtained by conventional models.

Financial Deepening and Economic Growth in Nigeria: Evidence from 1982 – 2019

2022-10-05T11:49:19+0330

This paper examines the impact of financial deepening on economic growth in Nigeria from 1982 – 2019. The objective of the study is to look at the impact of credit to private sector, money supply and gross domestic savings on the economic growth in Nigeria. Secondary data were collected based on the model used in the research work and unit root test was conducted on the data to test their stationary, after which we perform co-integration test to analyze the long run relationship among the variables. The result obtained from our empirical analysis shows that all financial deepening variables possesses a significant impact on the economic growth in Nigeria, that is, money supply, credit to private sector and gross domestic savings financial deepening proxies has significant and positive effect on economic growth. The study therefore recommends that government and the monetary authorities should make policies which would help to boost the saving culture of the people. This could be done by increasing the deposit rate which would lure the people to deposit their money in banks thereby increasing the supply of loanable funds. This would lead to a fall in interest rate and eventually rise in investment.

Assessing Key performance indicators in Blockchain-Based Supply Chain Financing: Case Study of Chain Stores

2022-11-29T15:16:55+0330

In recent years, due to the growth and development of financing tools and methods, financial institutions are always looking for new, efficient, and low-cost methods. In carrying out their daily production operations, companies are faced with different and diverse financial input and output flows from purchasing orders and inventory to receiving the price of sold goods, which are not the same in terms of time. Therefore, they will inevitably look for the financing of these processes, which is referred to as working capital financing. However, in the conditions of recession and lack of bank loans and considering the problems caused by the unilateral management of this issue, there is a need for innovative financial tools such as supply chain financing (SCF). In recent years, with the introduction and evolution of blockchain technology, this opportunity has also arisen in financial fields to make the most of this new technology. Considering the growth of this technology and the importance of supply chain financing, in this research, it was first tried to fully investigate the dimensions and key components of blockchain-based supply chain financing. chain stores were considered as a case study and the importance of supply chain financing was analyzed in them and the SCF framework was presented in these applied enterprises. In addition, the most important key performance indicators in a blockchain-based supply chain financing system are identified and evaluated with an emphasis on chain store processes. To evaluate the data, a non-linear hierarchical analysis method was used. The results show that transferring and reducing risks in different types is one of the most important performance indicators of the blockchain-based supply chain financing system.

Investigating the value level of pharmaceutical companies in Tehran Stock Exchange

2022-12-02T22:27:26+0330

The main purpose of this research is to examine the relationship between human resources productivity and the value level of companies admitted to the stock market of Tehran Stock Exchange. The methods of library study and review of documents and the content of the materials, as well as the preparation of interviews were used to collect information. By reviewing the subject literature and interviewing managers and experts of some pharmaceutical companies, the components affecting the productivity of human resources have been determined and by brainstorming, the three components of the motivational system, work commitment and job enrichment have been determined in priority. The value level of pharmaceutical company’s stocks, is determined by the ratio of price to profitability, book and accounting value of companies and their market value. With statistical analysis and hypothesis testing, the significant relationship between the productivity components of human resources and the value levels of pharmaceutical companies have been confirmed. The results of the analysis show that unlike other companies accepted in the stock market of Tehran Stock Exchange, where the components of industry, politics and economy are effective in their success and value, for pharmaceutical companies, human resources and especially their level of expertise play a major role in the level of value. Also, high work commitment despite low motivational systems is one of the other obvious results of this research about these companies.

Optimizing The Transportation of Petroleum Products in A Possible Multi-Level Supply Chain

2022-12-03T13:44:03+0330

The goal of many supply chain optimization problems is to minimize the costs of the entire supply chain network. However, since environmental protection is one of the main concerns, the green supply chain network has been seriously considered as a solution to this concern in order to minimize its effects on nature. This article refers to the modeling and solution of a green supply chain network for the transportation of petroleum products in order to reduce the annual costs, considering the environmental effects. In this article, the cost elements of the supply chain such as the transportation costs of each petroleum product, operating costs, the cost of purchasing crude oil products and the fixed costs of building oil centers as well as the components of the environmental effects of the supply chain such as the amount of gas emissions and volatile organic particles produced by transportation options in the supply chain. considered green. Considering these two components (cost and environmental impact), we have proposed a multi-objective supply chain model. In this facility model, oil centers have limited capacity and at each level of the chain, there are several types of transportation options with different costs. To solve the problem, we have used two multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithms and genetic multi-objective optimization algorithm with non-dominant sorting II with a priority-based decoding to encode the chromosome. Finally, we have used TOPSIS method to compare these two algorithms.

Business Location and Customer Patronage in the Hotel Industry in Benue State, Nigeria

2022-08-18T21:21:58+0430

This study examined the effect of business location on customer patronage of hotels in Benue State, Nigeria: The study specifically examined the effect of parking space, road network and accessibility and security and safety on customer patronage in the hotel industry in Benue State, Nigeria. The survey design was adopted for the study. The population for this study was 474. This figure consists of 159 tenured staff of 9 hotels selected across the 3 geopolitical zones of the state and 315 customers purposively sampled (35 from each hotel). The study adopted census sampling and 474 questionnaires were administered on entire population. However, only 402 were retrieved and analyzed. Pearson correlation was used to test the hypotheses while multiple regression analysis was employed to test the extent of the effect of independent variables on the dependent variable. Findings of the study revealed that parking space, road network and accessibility and security and safety all have significant effect on customer patronage in the hotel industry in Benue State, Nigeria The study concluded that repeat patronage, customer retention and customer referrals can be achieved through provision of innovative parking space, accessible road network and assured security and safety of guest. The study recommended among others that hotels managers in Benue State should be innovative and aggressive in providing parking space for their customers.

Effect of Mentoring on the Growth of Selected Small Scale Businesses in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State-Nigeria

2022-07-16T13:28:53+0430

Strategies for developing the capabilities of employees are important part of any organization’s overall strategy and source of competitive advantage. This study investigated the effect of mentoring on the growth of selected small scale businesses in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State. The study specifically examined the effect of career support, psychological support and knowledge transfer on the growth of selected small scale businesses in Makurdi Metropolis. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design and the population of the study was 152 (owners and employees) of small scale businesses within Makurdi Metropolis. A pilot study was carried out to measure validity and reliability of items on the questionnaire. Data collected from respondents through self-administered questionnaire were analysed using Mean, Standard Deviation and Regression Analysis. Formulated hypotheses were tested with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 23) software. The study found that career support has significant effect on the growth of small scale businesses (P.019; β=.349); psychological support has significant effect on the growth of small scale businesses (P.000; β=.734) and knowledge transfer has significant effect on the growth of small scale businesses (P.000; β=.516). It recommended amongst others that government should organize mentorship programmes for entrepreneurs and business men to enable them have knowledge about business mentoring and the importance of transferring knowledge to enhance viability and growth of their businesses.

The Impact of Blockchain Technology and The Internet of Things on the Agile and Sustainable Supply Chain

2022-08-18T16:06:42+0430

In addition to being a revolutionary technology for all industries, the Internet of Things; has also shown its potential in processes such as supply chain. With the advancement of technology and the emergence of the new era, the challenges of the traditional supply chain that follows a path from top to bottom (suppliers of raw materials to final consumers) are revealed. Also, due to environmental issues and the increasing speed of the changes in the needs of customers in various industries, including the retail industry, which has undergone many changes with the emergence of innovation, the entire path of the supply chain requires the implementation of strategies such as agile and green supply chains and achieving smartness. Therefore, emerging technologies such as The Internet of Things play a significant role in the agility and greenness of the entire retail supply chain. The presence of blockchain technology with decentralized data archiving in supply chain processes based on the Internet of Things guarantees the security of big data and helps in optimal data performance. This helps the agility of supply chain processes. In this chapter, dimensions, components, and key indicators effective in the implementation of an agile smart supply chain based on transformative technologies are examined.

Financial Inclusion And Micro, Small And Medium Enterprises (Msmes) Development In Nigeria

2022-08-21T17:15:19+0430

This study investigated the effect of financial inclusions of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) development in Nigeria. The methodology adopted for evaluation of the model is the multiple linear regression method. This choice of method is necessitated by the nature of the study which in this case is an analysis of relationship among variables. The statistical methods used included Unit root test, the Co-integration test and error correction model. Data was sourced from CBN statistical Bulletin 1981-2019. The results show that, whereas financial inclusion positively and significantly impacts the operations and development of MSMEs, distance to financial services, access points and infrastructural deficiency challenged fast and effective access to financial services by MSMEs in Nigeria. The study recommends that deliberate efforts should be made to spread access points to more rural areas and improve infrastructure to promote FI. This should include a policy roadmap for expanding financial services access points to unbanked and underserved areas using the financial services geospatial map

Recent Technology for Recycling of Used Diapers Waste

2022-07-22T11:01:10+0430

The purpose of this paper is to provide information related to waste technology processing. The study was conducted using a literature review technique. This review provides an in-depth discussion of the impact and the recent breakthrough in improving problems arising from the generation and disposal of soiled diapers. Various technologies were highlighted, especially the safer use and cleaner technology, such as biodegradation and composting to maximizing recycle process at a cheaper cost. Moreover, pyrolysis shows an opportunity to improve the efficiency of the recycling process used diapers. Finally, recycling is achievable with an economic incentive if the costs of a series of complicated processes are lower than the value of the end product. Therefore, the best technology for recycling becomes a big consideration. The consideration of which process to use may vary from national and industrial outlook in terms of rate of return, total cost, and environmental. The challenge of recycling is to reduce the cost of waste treatment while providing high-quality final products and need to focus on developing practical and environmentally friendly recovery methods.

Using Support Vector Machine For Classification And Feature Extraction Of Spam In Email

2022-07-22T14:59:35+0430

We provide an overview of recent and successful content-based e-mail spam filtering algorithms in this article. Our main focus is on spam filters based on machine learning and variants influenced by them. We report on significant ideas, methodologies, key endeavors, and the field's current state-of-the-art. The initial interpretation of previous work demonstrates the fundamentals of spam filtering and feature engineering in e-mail. We finish by looking at approaches, procedures, and evaluation standards, as well as exploring intriguing offshoots of recent breakthroughs and proposing directions of future research.

An investigation into the benefits of using activity - oriented teaching techniques and strategies to teach Mathematics in lower primary schools in Sierra Leone. (A Case Study of four primary schools in Kenema City, Sierra Leone)

2022-08-15T07:38:43+0430

An investigation into the benefits of using activity - oriented teaching techniques and strategies to teach Mathematics in lower primary schools has been carried out in Sierra Leone. Four (4) primary schools in the Kenema City were selected for the research work; College Practicing School, Methodist Primary School, The Door International Academy Primary School and St. Paul’s Primary School. The variations in the characteristics in each of the schools selected were meant to provide balanced information and avoid biasness in the data collection process. 160 of class four pupils (40 from each of the Schools) and their Mathematics Teachers were selected for this research work. Stratified Sampling and Simple Random Sampling (SRS) methods were used to select pupils. Questionnaires and interview schedules were carefully designed to solicit information with regard to the appropriate teaching methodology that could be used to teach mathematics in lower primary schools. The results obtained were analyzed in a simplified manner using tables and calculating percentages. It was concluded in this research work that activity method is the best methodology to be used to teach mathematics in the lower primary schools and that the School Authorities should endeavour to make available the necessary teaching and learning materials for the effective teaching of mathematics.

Treatment of cracking in rigid highway pavements using knowledge-based System

2022-07-13T21:06:28+0430

Highway engineers encounter numerous problems in the quality of rigid pavements; cracking types are the most critical ones. Thus, deciding on appropriate controlling measures represents an essential mission. Normally, cracking problems affect the quality of pavements as well as increase initial cost. Although experts can control and solve these problems by using their tacit knowledge, novice engineers cannot. Transfer of expertise from experts to novices is difficult pavements domain. Therefore, a system which experts could use to share their experience with other engineers both during and after a project is necessary. Without such transfer of expertise and knowledge, novices may repeat mistakes that experts have already learned to avoid. Documentation, classification, and computerization of these problems, their causes, treatments, and preventive actions can be very helpful in controlling and preventing them. This study aims to describe the development of a knowledge-based system that can be used by novice engineers to overcome cracking of rigid pavements. The system can also be used as an instructional tool for prospective highway engineers. In addition, the system can archive and organize raw knowledge from experts to be utilized by engineers who work in this field. Domain experts can use the system to share their experiences. The knowledge includes problems encountered in the domain, their causes, preventive actions, treatments, and their effects, which were presented in a classified format. The knowledge was presented in the form of rules and coded in software by using Visual Basic. The system was tested by different users involved in highway engineering, including experts and novice engineers. The mean values of the overall system evaluation by the four types of users based on the 5-point Likert scale were 4 and 4.5 respectively. These values reflect high level of satisfaction by end-users.

Forecasting Startup Return using Artificial Intelligence Methods and Econometric Models and Portfolio Optimization Using VaR and C-VaR

2022-07-16T08:04:03+0430

In this paper, we have tried to study the main role of startups in economy, their characteristics, main goals and etc. The main goal of article is prediction of startup's return using artificial intelligence methods such as genetic algorithm (GA) and artificial neural network (ANN). Some global indices such as S&P500, DJAI, and economic indicators such as 10 years Treasury yield, Wilshire 5000 Total Market Full Cap Index along with some other special indicators in startups like team, idea, timing and etc. are used as input variables. GA is used as feature selection and finding the most important variables. ANN is used as an optimization model and prediction of startup's returns. We used econometric models such as regression analysis. We have estimated Value at risk (VaR) and Conditional Value at risk (C-VAR) for considered portfolios including three startups (public company) such as Dropbox, Inc. (DBX), Scout24 SE (G24.DE) and TIE.AS and optimal portfolio formation. The results show that AI based methods are more powerful in prediction of startup's return. On the other hand, VaR and C-VaR models are very beneficial approach in minimizing risk and maximizing return.

Entrepreneurship Education and Entrepreneurial Intention of University Undergraduate Students in Benue State Nigeria

2022-07-10T12:51:34+0430

This study examined the effect of entrepreneurship education on entrepreneurial intention of university undergraduate students in Benue State, Nigeria. The study specifically examined the effect of entrepreneurship education on start-up intention and innovation intention among university undergraduate students in Benue State, Nigeria. The adopted the cross-sectional survey design involving university undergraduates in three universities in Benue State. The population of the study comprised of 957 final year students from Faculty of Management Sciences from JS Tarka University Makurdi (224), Benue State University Makurdi (631) and University of Mkar, Mkar (102). Applying Taro Yamene’s formula, a sample size of 282 was realized. The study employed questionnaire as the major instrument for data collection. The items on the questionnaire were all measured on a 5-point scale ranging from 1=strongly disagree to 5=strongly agree. Result of pilot study showed that the reliability for each of the constructs was above 0.70. Simple linear regression analysis was used in testing the data gathered from the survey. Analysis was done with the aid of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 23). Findings revealed that entrepreneurship education has significant positive effect on start-up intention and innovation intention of university undergraduate students in Benue State, Nigeria. The study concludes that university undergraduate students’ intentions toward entrepreneurship can be enhanced using entrepreneurship education. This study is an initial call to elaborate an appropriate model of entrepreneurship education in universities in Benue State that will present a more practical and effective entrepreneurship education

Absorption in the wavemaker by Artificial neural networks (ANNs)

2022-04-25T11:40:22+0430

Wave-making theories are becoming available, but their applicability is limited to specific ranges of waves and wavemaker types. Machine learning can also be used to discover nonlinear functional relationships. As a result, based on machine learning, this paper proposes a simple and universal framework for generating and absorbing waves.This framework trains neural networks to determine the transfer function between the wavemaker's free-surface elevation and velocity. To increase the generalization ability of neural networks, penalty term and data augmentation techniques based on wave-making mechanisms are introduced, rather than pure data-driven.As a result, once the wavemaker has the target wave profiles in front of it, it can generate waves while also absorbing reflected waves. Analytical solutions are used to validate the simulated wave profiles and wave orbital velocities, demonstrating that the proposed framework is effective at eliminating the re-reflection wave.The validation for generating the solitary wave and the New Year's wave is then performed, indicating that the generated waves agree very well with the desired wave elevation. The proposed framework can help with wavemaker design in the future, and it does not require any complex theoretical derivation.

The problem of production-distribution under uncertainty based on Vendor Managed Inventory

2022-06-16T10:06:09+0430

In this paper, a problem of managed inventory by the vendor in the production-distribution supply chain is presented based on the scenario. The main purpose of presenting the model of maximizing producer profit in a three-level supply chain network consisting of various strategic and tactical decisions under uncertainty. Due to the nonlinearity and NP-Hardness of the problem, meta-heuristic genetic algorithms, Whale optimization algorithm and league champions algorithm have been used. The results of problem solving show the high efficiency of meta-heuristic algorithms compared to accurate methods in solving the above model. So that the maximum percentage of relative differences between the methods mentioned with GAMS is less than 1%.Also, by solving the sample problems in larger sizes, it was observed that the league champions algorithm has the highest efficiency in terms of achieving the optimal value of the target function in a shorter time than the other algorithms used, with a useful weight of 0.998.

Studying Students' Knowledge of the Benefits, Challenges, and Applications of Big Data Analytics in Healthcare

2022-04-18T13:03:23+0430

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the students' familiarity from different universities of Mashhad with the benefits, applications and challenges of Big Data analysis. This is a cross-sectional study that was conducted on students of different fields, including Medical Engineering, Medical Informatics, Medical Records and Health Information Management in Mashhad-Iran. A questionnaire was designed. The designed questionnaire evaluated the opinion of students regarding benefits, challenges and applications of Big Data analytics. 200 students participated and participants' opinions were evaluated descriptively and analytically. Most students were between 20 and 30 years old. 43.5% had no work experience. Current and previous field of study of most of the students were HIT, HIM, and Medical Records. Most of the participants in this study were undergraduates. 61.5% were economically active, 54.5% were exposed to Big Data. The mean scores of participants in benefits, applications, and challenges section were 3.71, 3.68, and 3.71, respectively, and process management was significant in different age groups (p=0.046), information, modelling, research, and health informatics across different fields of studies were significant (p=0.015, 0.033, 0.001, 0.024) Information and research were significantly different between groups (p=0.043 and 0.019), research in groups with / without economic activity was significant (p= 0.017) and information in exposed / non-exposed to Big Data groups was significant (p=0.02). Despite the importance and benefits of Big Data analytics, students' lack of familiarity with the necessity and importance is significant. The field of study and level of study does not appear to have an effect on the degree of knowledge of individuals regarding Big Data analysis. The design of technical training courses in this field may increase the level of knowledge of individuals regarding Big Data analysis.

An IoT-based sustainable supply chain framework and blockchain

2022-06-05T08:50:51+0430

The increasing expansion of the needs of human beings and societies has caused various aspects of human life and societies to face serious challenges and be considered. Supply chain organizations operate in a market in today's global environment that is increasingly complex and dynamic in nature. Stable supply chains are inevitable to meet drastic changes in customer needs. Research has shown that manufacturing companies need to accelerate the shift from focus to sustainability and use technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain to achieve the organization's goal. In this regard, by expanding the capabilities of the blockchain under the four main areas (1) designing incentive and tokenization mechanisms to promote green consumer behavior; (2) increase visibility throughout the product life cycle; (3) increase system efficiency while reducing development and operating costs; And (4) strengthen the monitoring of sustainability and performance reporting in supply chain networks; it can be seen that the supply chain based on these transformational technologies can play a colorful role in creating stability and a green and efficient supply chain. In this study, the potential opportunities in the IoT to create a sustainable supply chain are discussed. Also, based on this study, a framework has been proposed to show the relationships and effects of the constituent elements of a stable supply chain system based on the Internet of Things and blockchain. The conceptual framework is designed with an emphasis on sustainable development, collaboration and management and can provide a good perspective for implementing a sustainable supply chain based on technology

Investigation of the Effects of Nano Silica Particles and Zeolite on the Mechanical Strengths of Metakaolin-Based Geopolymer Concrete

2022-03-29T11:13:18+0430

Due to its unique qualities, concrete is the most extensively utilized substance in the construction sector after water. However, because one ton of Portland cement produces about one ton of CO₂, the Portland cement manufacturing process has considerable disadvantages. As a result, an alternative to Portland cement appears to be required. Geopolymer is a new and environmentally friendly cementitious material that can be used in place of Portland cement. Chemically and mechanically, geopolymer concrete outperforms traditional concrete. The weight ratio of water to dry matter used in polymerization, as well as the weight ratio of sodium silicate to NaOH solution, have an impact on the compressive strength of geopolymer concrete. As a result, additional research into these variables appeared to be necessary. This paper specifically looked at how nanosilica and zeolite affected the mechanical strength of metakaolin-based geopolymer concrete. Nanosilica was added to metakaolin-based geopolymer concrete to improve mechanical characteristics. Furthermore, using zeolite in a metakaolin-based aluminosilicate source lowers the mechanical strength of geopolymer concrete while also lowering the cost. The optimal weight ratios for polymerization water to dry matter and sodium silicate solution to NaOH solution were 0.4741 and 1.5, respectively, resulting in maximum compressive pressures of 3, 7, and 28 days.

Adaptive Project Monitoring and Control with Variable Reviewing Intervals

2022-02-18T22:36:19+0330

This paper presents a managerial project control scheme in which the time between the control points is not fixed but instead is a function of the distance between the planned and the current performance levels. Varying the reviewing interval improves the efficiency of the project monitoring and control process and allows project managers to obtain the required information more quickly. To evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme, a systematic computational experiment is carried out. Besides, a practical case study is given to illustrate the applicability of the proposed scheme. The results reveal the satisfactory performance of the adaptive control scheme.

Development of Technology Identification model focusing on Technology Intelligence and Components and Indicators extracted from Upstream Documents of the Islamic Republic of Iran

2022-01-15T10:52:29+0330

The intelligence of science, technology, and innovation in today's world can be very influential. So, making a wrong decision can have irreparable consequences and may even hurt an economy or a country for several years. Considering that the upstream documents are the guidelines for determining the macro-policies of science and technology, it is necessary to analyze these documents to identify the components of National Powerness from the perspective of these documents. In this study, we sought to investigate the upstream documents and statements of the Supreme Leader to enumerate the dimensions and components of National Powerness. The method used was based on documentary study and to analyze the findings, the Content Analysis method was used. In the policy section, upstream documents such as the constitution, the vision of the I.R. Iran on the horizon of 1404, the declaration of the second step of the Islamic Revolution of Iran and other documents were examined. In the speeches section, statements of the Supreme Leader among scientific experts, university professors, industry, and technology activists, etc. were reviewed and analyzed. The themes extracted from these documents were classified into six dimensions: political, defense-security, environmental, economic, scientific, technological, and cultural discourse. Below these dimensions, 75 components were extracted. Depending on the extracted components, technology can be identified or ranked.

Innovative Drying Tool (Oven) with the Hot Air Flow Method to Improve Productivity and Quality of Sugar for Small Medium Enterprise in Indonesia

2021-12-03T16:16:40+0330

Sugar production from palm trees, has become a livelihood for some Indonesian people. The aim of this research is to help Small Medium Enterprises increase the production of ant sugars by modifying conventional ovens with ovens using the hot air flow method. the result was that it could add capacity (kg) in shorter time period (minutes) also reduce the use of liquid petroleum gas (kg), so that it became more cost-effective and did not require work to rotate containers, and most importantly the produced ant sugar also had better quality.

Modeling and Solving Flow Shop Scheduling Problem Considering Worker Resource

2022-01-29T08:55:39+0330

In this paper, an uninterrupted hybrid flow scheduling problem is modeled under uncertainty conditions. Due to the uncertainty of processing time in workshops, fuzzy programming method has been used to control the parameters of processing time and preparation time. In the proposed model, there are several jobs that must be processed by machines and workers, respectively. The main purpose of the proposed model is to determine the correct sequence of operations and assign operations to each machine and each worker at each stage, so that the total completion time (Cmax) is minimized. Also this paper, fuzzy programming method is used for control unspecified parameter has been used from GAMS software to solve sample problems. The results of problem solving in small and medium dimensions show that with increasing uncertainty, the amount of processing time and consequently the completion time increases. Increases from the whole work. On the other hand, with the increase in the number of machines and workers in each stage due to the high efficiency of the machines, the completion time of all works has decreased. Innovations in this paper include uninterrupted hybrid flow storage scheduling with respect to fuzzy processing time and preparation time in addition to payment time. The allocation of workers and machines to jobs is another innovation of this article.

SWOT analysis in the General Organization of Labor, Cooperation and Social Welfare of East Azerbaijan Province with a scientific and technological approach

2022-03-10T06:42:55+0330

Since environmental threats threaten the life and survival of organizations from all sides, organizations must recognize their current position. Carefully analyze their strengths and weaknesses, seize environmental opportunities, and prepare for threats. This is possible in the form of strategic planning. Strategic planning is used as a framework for implementing strategic thinking and directing operations to achieve goals. Thus, the organization analyses the capability and environmental conditions and, based on it, determines the possible purposes and methods to achieve it. The Department of Cooperatives, Labor, and Social Welfare of East Azerbaijan Province plays a special role in providing services to various stakeholders and its role in economic, social, cultural development and increasing the welfare of society. Identify and evaluate this organization's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to provide public value; it is one of the essential issues and requirements for achieving organizational goals. In this regard, using SWOT analysis and Bryson strategic planning model, internal and external factors in employment management and entrepreneurship have been identified, using interviews with managers and experts in the mentioned sector, relevant stakeholders, and questionnaire tools. In the next step, strategies related to each area were formulated as strategic issues and prioritized using internal factor matrix, external factor matrix, and QSPM evaluation methods.

A Survey of Students’ Attitudes to Big Data Analysis in Iranian Universities

2021-11-27T17:44:13+0330

Today, with the emergence of new technologies and massive data, big data analysis has attracted the attention of researchers, industries and universities on a global scale. The present research aims to explore students’ attitude to big data analysis in different fields of study. The present cross-sectional study was conducted with students at different universities and fields of study in Iran. A questionnaire was developed. This questionnaire explored students’ attitude toward big data analysis. To this aim, 359 university students participated in the research. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The age of the students ranged between 25 and 34 years. 55.2% were female and 54% were economically active. 40.9% had a work experience of less than a year. The academic degree of the majority of participants was master’s degree. 93.9% of the participants believed that big data analysis was essential for the country. 43.2% maintained that big data mostly belonged to the communication industry. 28.1% perceived MATLAB useful software for analysis. 40.9% were familiar with the benefits of analysis. Engage in economic activities, less than 1 year of experience and studies for a Master’s degree showed to be significantly correlated with familiarity with the benefits of big data (p≤0.01). Such issues as high costs, managers’ unfamiliarity and lack of expertise and complexity were raised by the respondents. Considering the undeniable benefits of big data analysis, it seems essential to familiarize university students with these analyses through particular training courses, conferences and so on.

SURC: Secure Ultra-lightweight RFID Authentication Protocol with Crossover

2021-08-07T02:41:19+0430

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system is a wireless automatic identification using low-cost RFID tags. Due to the importance of RFID in everyday life, the need to maintain security and Privacy in these systems has been increasing day by day. In this paper, at first, we define a new operation named crossover, by using simple bitwise operations and discuss its security. Then we propose a new secure ultra-lightweight RFID Authentication protocol with crossover operation (SURC). SURC is a low communication and computation cost protocol that can be integrated into the ubiquitous Electronic Product Code (EPCglobal) class1 Generation 2 tag protocol (C1G2). The new protocol resists data integrity and confidentiality, tag location tracking backward traceability, and server and tag impersonation.

Logistics Network Design Considering the Location of Logistics Hubs: A Case Study of Western Iran

2021-10-22T17:35:41+0330

Today, logistics is recognized as one of the most important factors in the development of countries. One of the characteristics of an efficient logistics structure is the design of a suitable logistics network with the requirements of the region and the existing infrastructure to meet the commercial and industrial needs at different scales. Facility location is the most important factor for the success of the facility and the designed network. One of the interesting topics in location issues is the hub location issue. Hubs are facilities that are used as our points of integration, communication, and switching between source and destination nodes. In a hub network, non-hub nodes are assigned to the hubs individually or multiple times so that the total system cost is minimized and service requirements are met. Given the current economic conditions and competitive environment, logistics hubs play an important role in the logistics network of companies, especially on a large scale, for countries. The function of logistics hubs is similar to that of logistics centers, but due to the network structure, they are known as logistics hubs. In this paper, the problem of logistics network design with emphasis on the location of logistics hubs is investigated. The mathematical model of the problem is multidimensional and unallocated, and the designed hub network is an incomplete network. In this case, the purpose is to meet the requirements of the mathematical model while minimizing the costs of a logistics network consisting of three costs of facility construction, interstate network construction, and transportation.

Improvement of the Eﬃcient Mutual Authentication Protocol for Passive RFID Tags (EMAP)

2021-09-22T16:47:14+0330

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system is a wireless automatic identification using low-cost RFID tags. Promotion of privacy and security in RFID systems has been considered essential due to their usage in everyday life. In 2012, Guo-Rui Li et al. Proposed a new Eﬃcient Mutual Authentication Protocol for passive RFID (EMAP), that providing conﬁdentiality, un-traceability, and eﬃciency. In addition to proving the security problems of the EMAP method, this paper has presented a novel method to improve this weak point.

A Competitive Nature-Inspired Cuckoo Search Algorithm for Solving the Resource Constrained Project Scheduling Problem

2021-10-10T00:23:48+0330

Since its advent, the resource constrained project scheduling problem has been a favorite NP-Hard problem studied by many researchers. In this paper, we examine this problem with a focus on the total project time minimization, usually known as the makespan minimization. To this end, a nature-inspired Cuckoo Search Algorithm (CSA) has been introduced that works by simulating the brooding parasitism of some cuckoo birds in nature. In a nutshell, the proposed cuckoo search algorithm has two main capabilities including: a) a global random search using Levy flights, and b) a local random refinement strategy. In addition, a double justification method has been employed to improve the generated solutions. Simultaneous use of these features can maximize the efficiency of resource searches in uncertain environments. Experimental results on the standard J30, J60, and J120 test sets from the PSPLIB are also presented, showing that the CSA has satisfying results compared with the other well-reported algorithms.

Analysis of surface roughness and material removal rate in machining of AISI 1040 steel using CNC turning process

2021-07-22T15:22:56+0430

The present study investigates the effect of turning process parameters on the surface roughness and metal removal rate (MRR) of the AISI 1040 steel. Twenty-seven ( L₂₇) runs based on an orthogonal array of Taguchi techniques were performed and the grey relational analysis method was later applied to determine a most favourable turning parameters setting. Apart from this, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted to statically identify the effect of the most significant parameters. Cutting speed, feed, depth of cut, and nose radius were carefully selected as input parameters, while surface roughness and material removal rate (MRR) was output respectively. Various plots and curves have been drawn to identify the effect of various parameters on surface roughness, material removal rate, and grey relational grade. From the result, it was observed that the Taguchi-based grey relational analysis approach can be effectively used as a structured method to optimize the parameters. The results of the range analysis show that the cutting speed has the most significant effect, followed by the feed rate and depth of cut.

Economic assessment model of the silver recycling industry

2021-09-06T16:33:04+0430

Silver Element (SE) is exploited in making coins, jewelry, silverware, electronics devices, medical and decorative stuff, confectionery products, mirrors and glass making, and making up photography films, etc. Because of its antibacterial properties, the SE is utilized in the pharmaceutical industry. One of its important characteristics is high resistance to chemical solvents. The SE has historically had a special position and value among the people because of its precious status and its widespread use, especially in the field of medicine. The Silver Metal (SM) has been used as a trading agent rather than money. The present research investigated the silver recycling industry from photography films and their belongings to deploy an economic assessment model empirically. By the current research, an economic assessment model was developed that can be assigned to assess any engineering & industrial project in the screening step of project identification via the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) plan. Also, the developed model can be employed to estimate the economic indices of breakeven point, economic value-added, and time of return on investment. The configuration of the model is highly emphasized in electronic software's.

Artificial intelligence and Machine Learning for Real-world problems (A survey)

2021-09-22T20:39:57+0330

Today, the use of machine learning and artificial intelligence due to many advantages such as simplicity, high speed, high accuracy in predicting various processes, no need for complex equipment and tools and the availability of many applications in science and fields. Has found various including statistics, mathematics, physics, chemistry, biochemistry, materials engineering, medical engineering, pharmacy and etc. Therefore, in the present era, the study and study of various methods and algorithms of machine learning and artificial intelligence is very important. As a subset of artificial intelligence, machine learning algorithms create mathematical models based on sample data or training data for unpredictable prediction or decision making. One of the most interesting topics that can be focused on with artificial intelligence is predicting and estimating future events. Machine learning provides machines with the ability to learn independently. In other words, the machine can learn from the experiences, observations, and patterns it analyzes based on a set of data. In this regard, the chapter, with the aim of introducing machine learning and artificial intelligence, deals with their application in managing and analyzing the processes of economic systems in real conditions.

Investigating the key indicators of implementing car paint quality management in the automotive industry

2021-10-15T19:41:57+0330

With the increasing development of science and technology, economics and industry have gone beyond their traditional framework and are becoming more and more knowledge-based every day. In this regard, identifying and reviewing key indicators in different sectors of industry as well as evaluating and prioritizing these factors are the most important optimization tools in the field of growth and development of companies. The study of how these tools affect their development and identify the factors affecting their accurate implementation in the field of car paint quality is the subject of this article. After extensive review of existing studies in this field and reviewing the opinions of experts, key influential factors were identified and using the ideas of experts, they were modified in accordance with the conditions of the country and placed in a suitable frame. These critical indicators were examined using Fuzzy AHP method and their importance was discovered within the process. This model was investigated and tested in Iran Khodro Company, using the analysis of the results the importance of the elements was figured out. Finally, using the obtained results from the analysis, the value of optimal implementation in different parts of the industry was examined.

Security Analysis and Improvement of Wei-Chi Ku and Yi-Han Chen’s RFID protocol

2021-08-08T05:13:53+0430

RFID are small wireless devices that can be used for identification of objects and humans. With development of RFID technology and increasing the use of this technology in everyday life, the Security issues in these systems have been growing in terms of importance day by day. In 2012 Wei-Chi Ku and Yi-Han Chen Proposed a new eﬃcient mutual authentication protocol for passive RFID that provides conﬁdentiality, un-traceability and eﬃciency. This paper demonstrates that Wei-Chi Ku and Yi-Han Chen’s protocol has a serious security problem and proposes a new protocol to prevent this security problem by some changes. Furthermore, the capability of our method for improving, confidentiality, untraceability, and data integrity is discussed.

Provide a model for managing claims regarding the PMBOK standard

2021-08-05T23:47:46+0430

Iran is very rich in oil and gas, which is why the Iran government is investing billions of dollars every year in oil and gas facilities to improve the country. The oil and gas refinery construction industry are very complex and involves multidisciplinary contributors. In this environment, many changes and claims appear. Changes and claims are commonly considered negative events, and thus, should be kept away from the project. With considering this concept, this paper presents the results of a study of the types and causes of project claims in the Persian Gulf Star Gas Condensate Refinery project in Bandar Abbas. The data were analyzed and the consequences of this analysis along with advice on how to reduce/prevent claims in construction are then presented.

Provide a multi-purpose fuzzy model for stock portfolio optimization

2021-07-26T19:41:45+0430

Researchers in the field of portfolio optimization made efforts to decrease uncertainty in future returns. Any disturbance in the parameter values causes the solution to be non-optimal or impossible. This study designs a strong fuzzy-multipurpose model for stock portfolio optimization based on Tehran Stock Exchange market data. At the end of the paper, the created model is compared with the results of the multi-objective model. The results show that the fuzzy multi-objective optimization model has relative stability and model compared to the multi-purpose optimization model is strong.

Providing a model for the issue of multi-period ambulance location

2021-08-05T00:42:29+0430

In this study, two mathematical models have been developed for assigning emergency vehicles, namely ambulances, to geographical areas. The first model, which is based on the assignment problem, the ambulance transfer (moving ambulances) between locations has not been considered. As ambulance transfer can improve system efficiency by decreasing the response time as well as operational cost, we consider this in the second model, which is based on the transportation problem. Both models assume that the demand of all geographical locations must be met. The major contributions of this study are: ambulance transfer between locations, day split into several time slots, and demand distribution of the geographical zone. To the best of our knowledge the first two have not been studied before. These extensions allow us to have a more realistic model of the real-world operation. Although, in previous studies, maximizing coverage has been the main objective of the goal, here, minimizing operating costs is a function of the main objective, because we have assumed that the demand of all geographical areas must be met.

A fuzzy solution approach with genetic algorithm for a new fuzzy queue multi-objective locating model with the possibility of creating congestion for health centers

2021-08-04T23:53:36+0430

Health authorities have always faced the challenge of organizing health-related processes. One of the most important processes is locating health centers, clinics, hospitals, etc. Is. With increasing demand, efforts have been made to increase the efficiency of existing systems and the use of new efficient systems (their type of facilities and location) by health managers. Therefore, the use of new and efficient scientific methods in the direction of health planning has always been of interest to managers and researchers in this field. Considering the huge costs of establishing health centers and their importance, this important issue has been taken into consideration. Accordingly, in this paper, we have presented a multi-objective locating model with maximum coverage. In this model, the distance of centers from demand points, demand rates, and service rates are expressed as triangular fuzzy numbers and also queue theory has been used to improve the quality of the system.

Robust Box Approach for Blood Supply Chain Network Design under Uncertainty: Hybrid Moth-Flame Optimization and Genetic Algorithm

2021-08-05T17:27:47+0430

In this paper, a blood supply chain network (BSCN) is designed to reduce the total cost of the supply chain network under demand and transportation costs. The network levels considered for modeling include blood donation clusters, permanent and temporary blood transfusion centers, major laboratory centers and blood supply points. Other goals included determining the optimal number and location of potential facilities, optimal allocation of the flow of goods between the selected facilities and determining the most suitable transport route to distribute the goods to customer areas in uncertainty conditions. This study addresses the issue of blood prishability from blood sampling to distribution to customer demand areas. Given that the model was NP-hard, the MFGO algorithm were used to solve the model with a priority-based solution. The results of the design of the experiments showed the high efficiency of the MFGO algorithm in comparison with the PSO algorithm in finding efficient solutions. Also, the mean of the objective function in robust approach is more than the one in the deterministic approach, while the standard deviation of the first objective function in the robust approach is less than the one in the deterministic approach at all levels of the uncertainty factor.

Solve a New Robust Bi-Objective Model for Designing Blood Supply Chain Network by NSGA II and Imperialist Competitive Algorithm

2021-07-21T11:04:50+0430

In this supply chain, blood and blood products are investigated as a product from donor to patient. Specific characteristics of blood supply chain such as perishability and existence of uncertainty in the structure of this chain have caused problems for planning in this regard. However, this point should be considered that the importance of this supply chain cannot be compared to perishable products. Life and death issue of this product is the main difference between blood and other perishable products. Therefore, a comprehensive model was presented in this study to locate blood bank components within a network and to determine the allocation of these components considering blood donation centers, blood testing and processing laboratories, distribution centers or blood banks, and demand centers. Since designing supply chain and locating issues at large dimensions are NP-hard, the suggested models at small sizes were compared using the exact method (GAMS), non-dominated genetic sorting algorithm, and multi-objective imperialist competitive algorithm. The results were compared with GAMS. This shows normal performance of the proposed algorithms and led to using these two algorithms at average and large sizes for research questions. Also, by analyzing sensitivity on important parameters, important managerial findings are suggested for similar conditions.

Codify a Three echelon inventory control model in terms of inflation with allowed shortage for a deterioration items

2021-07-21T21:47:54+0430

In this research initially, trying to find a model for inventory control system in a three-echelon supply chain for one-product system composed of levels of production, warehouse and seller and then will be trying to find optimal point in mentioned model. Model condition has been under inflation and has been considered for a commodity in which shortage is allowed and production has been deteriorating. With assumption be stable lead time and rate of demand and production and deterioration factor, obtain the overall cost function and restrictions for mentioned state. The impact of inflation with exponential function is on the price of units after that because of complex non-linear equation obtained, possibility of solving is impossible through classical methods. So we use MATLAB software for the numerical solution, sometime in numerical cases MATLAB can’t solve in routine time or can’t solve so we proposed the simulated annealing metaheuristic algorithm for these cases.

Developing a Knowledge Management`s Framework for identification of Success factors in the Product Acquisition Cycles - case of aviation Industries Organization

2021-07-21T21:20:39+0430

Determining the success factors of the product acquisition process has initialized extensive researches at the level of institutions and organizations. However, few studies have been done about the success requirements of knowledge management in the product acquisition process. Therefore, in this research it is attempted to deal with this topic with a mixed method of qualitative and quantitative studies. At the qualitative stage by the use of the studies and the half-organized interviews the key knowledge which was very important for the success of each of the product acquisition phases was determined. Then this knowledge was translated to knowledge requirements, and at the next stage, a new model of assessing the situation of each of these requirements in product acquisition phases was presented. Finally, each situation was assessed with the knowledge management cycle approach in above-mentioned organizations. The results indicate that the knowledge production step in all of the product acquisition phases has an inappropriate situation, but the sharing process has an inappropriate situation in all phases except the knowledge production phase.

Dynamic DEA based on DMAIC model to evaluate passengers’ transportation in road transportation organization

2021-07-21T17:54:33+0430

In Iran, more than 94% of transportation is road transportation. The goal of this article is to assess and to rate road transportation companies of 31 country provinces and to determine the effect of integrating six sigma DMAIC cycle and dynamic data envelopment analysis (DDEA) on effective inputs and outputs. In this article the BCC output-oriented has been changed to dynamic model. According to the conducted sensitivity analysis in improvement phase, it is determined what changes should be made in the values of inputs and outputs for inefficient units to become efficient. DMAIC cycle control system is monitored through statistical control charts to be able to control and monitor the values of inputs and outputs. Integrating these methods help us with a more effective evaluation of dynamic environment and through sensitivity analysis in improvement phase, effectiveness and efficiency of units will increase and help to achieve the goals set.

Investigating Iran Housing Market Cycles and Possible Scenarios in Short-Term and Midterm Horizon Using the System Dynamics

2021-07-21T22:28:28+0430

Housing is one of the important sectors of any economy. Given the lack of risk of the value of assets decline and the possibility of great numbers investment, investment in housing is attractive for the majority of Iranians The prices' shock causes problems on the demand side, particularly for vulnerable groups and on the supply side fluctuates investors' market confidence and risk. Under current conditions, also housing market remains in a deep stagnation. The present paper attempts to investigate causes of the problem and the housing market's future status using the dynamic system tools. In this study, after literature review the problem of the cause and effect model of the housing market has been outlined and the important and effective cycles have been specified. Then, using this model rate and accumulation model has been addressed and housing cycles have been specified in the simulation. In presenting scenario, also the status of parameters of Iran macroeconomic and sanctions is investigated. The result of presenting scenario shows that no sharp jump is predicted in housing price in future decade and in most scenarios the price is developed proportional to the inflation or less than it.

Managing portfolio’s risk for improving quality in a project oriented manufacture

2021-07-21T13:19:55+0430

Iran is a developing country and there are many different infrastructure projects in hand. Some of the manufacturers that produce equipment for infrastructure projects as for oil, gas and energy projects should manage their efforts based on production management and project management practices; these kind of manufactures are known as project oriented manufacture. It is very important to manage and control manufacturing equipment project with the consideration of the constraints (time, cost, scope and quality). During the project’s lifecycle many risks take place, either positive or negative that should be controlled not to have a negative effect on quality of the project. With considering this concept, in this paper we will discuss a framework how to manage risks to eliminate negative effects on the quality of the project.

A New Multi Objective Mathematical Model for Relief Distribution Location at Natural Disaster Response Phase

2021-07-21T12:51:26+0430

Every year, natural disasters such as earthquake, flood, hurricane and etc. impose immense financial and humane losses on governments owing to their unpredictable character and arise of emergency situations and consequently the reduction of the abilities due to serious damages to infrastructures, increases demand for logistic services and supplies. First, in this study the necessity of paying attention to locating procedures in emergency situations is pointed out and an outline for the studied case of disaster relief supply chain was discussed and the problem was validated at small scale. On the other hand, to solve this kind of problems involving three objective functions and complicated time calculation, meta-heuristic methods which yield almost optimum solutions in less time are applied. The EC method and NSGA II algorithm are among the evolutionary multi-objective optimization algorithms applied in this case. In this study the aforementioned algorithm is used for solving problems at large scale.