Vol. 3, No. 3, May, 2011 (In 2 parts).


1^st PART.  /   NATURAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES

      Marina Andrade, Manuel Alberto M. Ferreira
Crime scene investigation with probabilistic expert systems

Abstract: Criminal identification problems are examples of situations in which forensic approach the DNA profiles study is a common procedure. In order to deal with these problems it is needed an introduction to present and explain the various concepts involved, since distinct areas must be considered. Some problems are presented and the use of the object-oriented Bayesian networks, example of probabilistic expert systems, is shown.

Keywords: Probabilistic expert systems, Bayesian networks, DNA profiles, Identification problems

Pages: 7-15

      Mourad O. Massa’deh, Abd Al Karem Ba’arah
Some Contribution On Upper Normal Fuzzy Subgroups

Abstract: In this paper we shall use the definition of upper normal fuzzy subgroup to study some properties for this subject, such that we shall discuss the upper normal fuzzy subgroup of a group G and the upper normal fuzzy subgroup of an upper fuzzy subgroup also we consider the homomorphic image and inverse image of the upper normal fuzzy subgroup.

Keywords: Fuzzy Sets; Upper Fuzzy Subgroups; Upper Normal Fuzzy Subgroups; Upper normalizer

Pages: 16-20

      As'ad Mahmoud As'ad Alnaser
Secure data transfer based on multipath routing

Abstract: In this paper we shall use the definition of upper normal fuzzy subgroup to study some properties for this subject, such that we shall discuss the upper normal fuzzy subgroup of a group G and the upper normal fuzzy subgroup of an upper fuzzy subgroup also we consider the homomorphic image and inverse image of the upper normal fuzzy subgroup.

Keywords: Multipath Routing, wireless, network

Pages: 21-27

      Javed Ahmed Mahar, Ghulam Qadir Memon, Shahid Hussain Danwar
Secure data transfer based on multipath routing

Abstract: Sindhi language is based on the Arabic style script; this language has rich morphology and has a use of prefixes and suffixes to express inflection and derivations of the script. The fundamental problem is that, the Sindhi language has a large number of morphological variants that must be analyzed and developed. In this paper, five algorithms are presented to segment a word into possible morpheme sequences. The lexicon is a repository for words and it is required for proposed algorithms therefore, a lexicon for computational processing is constructed with a list of prefixes, stems and suffixes containing 16,601 words. The cumulative segmentation error rate (SER) of algorithms is achieved around 9.54% on a test corpus containing 3,984 words. The purpose of research is to create a lexicon resource and word segmentation system that is useful for wider research community.

Keywords: Morphological Algorithms; Lexicon; Sindhi Morphology; Corpora; Complex Words

Pages: 28-35

      Shohreh Fatemi rad, Hamid Reza Mostafaei
Comparison of stochastic differential equation and artificial neural network for Survey and prediction of the fluctuations of oil price

Abstract: Unknowing of effective factors on changing of prices, always is a reason for prediction changes of prices. Essentially prediction is a basic element for directorial decision making. In a decision making, a trial from effectiveness of this decision and some probabilities which may be happen is paid attention.

Keywords: prediction of price, stochastic differential equation, neural network, software MATLAB, R²

Pages: 36-41

      Hasan Al-Refai, Ali Al-Awneh, Khaldoun Batiha, Amer Abu Ali, Yehia M. El. Rahman
Efficient routing leach (er-leach) enhanced on leach protocol in wireless sensor networks

Abstract: Efficient design and implementation of wireless sensor networks has become a hot area of research in recent years, due to the vast potential of sensor networks to enable applications that connect the physical world to the virtual world. By networking large numbers of tiny, low-powered wireless nodes with limited computation, communication, and sensing abilities, in a battery-powered sensor network, energy and communication bandwidth are a precious resources. Thus there is a need to adapt the networking process to match the application in order to minimize the resources consumed and extend the life of the network. In this paper, we introduce an Efficient Routing LEACH (ER-LEACH) which is a modified version of the well known LEACH protocol; ER-LEACH proposes vital solutions to some shortcomings of the pure LEACH. ER-LEACH is expected to perform well especially when the mobility is high and will prolong the overall network lifetime through load balancing. OMNET++ simulator will be used to prove that ER-LEACH performs better than LEACH protocol.

Keywords: Wireless sensor networks; Geographic routing; Localized routing; Power-aware routing, reliability, timeliness, query processing, redundancy, energy conservation, QoS.

Pages: 42-48

      Norhatta Mohd, Tengku Farah Petri Tengku Mahmood, Mohd Nazri Ismail
Factors that influence students in mathematics achievement

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to explore the level of attitude towards problem solving and mathematics achievement among students from Malaysian Institute of Information Technology, Universiti Kuala Lumpur. This study also observes the relationship between the level of patience, confidence and willingness towards problem solving and mathematics achievement. This research is a survey study that is conducted on 153 semester one students at diploma and bachelor program. This research uses one set of questionnaire to gather data. The data is then analyzed using The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The descriptive and inferential statistics analyses are used to analyze all the research questions.

Keywords: Attitude, patience, confidence, problem solving in mathematics, mathematics achievement

Pages: 49-54

       Hadi Hamedi, Majid Gandomkar
Evaluation of Reliability, Losses and Power Quality Considering Time Variations of Load in Presence of Distributed Generation Sources

Abstract: It is important how to optimally utilize energy, considering its importance in the recent decade and the expenses spent in its generation, transmission and distribution. Firstly, there are a great number of consumers with almost the similar consumption pattern throughout the distribution network. Secondly, it is known that the greatest amount of energy losses take place in the distribution level. Thirdly, the electricity market has developed and the distribution companies have been privatized. Based on these three facts, only those companies will be more successful which are able to provide the consumers with more reliable and higher quality energy. In this paper, reliability, losses and power quality in the distribution network in presence of distributed generation sources have been investigated, using the CYMEDIST software. Markov’s two-mode load model has been used in peak and base load modes, for a more precise study and in order to take the time variations of the loads into account.

Keywords: Reliability, Energy Losses, Power Quality, Distribution Network, Time Variations of Load, Distributed Generation Sources

Pages: 55-60

       Supari, I Made Yulistya Negara, Mochamad Ashari
Thrust control with rotor resistance adaptation for induction motor driven marine propellers

Abstract: Study and analysis of new thrust feed-back controller for induction motor driven marine propeller with fixed-pitch propellers were presented in this paper. The induction motor was fed by a current-controlled-voltagesource inverter and it was operated under field oriented control (FOC). The proposed controller includes propeller thrust estimator and rotor resistance adaptation strategy. The controller performs thrust control scheme by using advance speed, stator currents, and propeller shaft speed measurements. The rotor resistance adaptation was performed based on steady-state equations. The convergence rate of the thrust estimation process was further observed and improved by considering stator currents to reduce dependency of the controller toward operating point of the propeller. To verify the effectiveness of the proposed controller, the performance was compared to the conventional one. The result shows that the proposed controller has an improved performance in thrust production. The rotor resistance adaptation scheme ensures the decoupling of the flux and torque control and it maintains the high performance and high efficiency of marine propeller with convergence rate less depends on the propeller operating point.

Keywords: Thrust controller, marine propeller, FOC, rotor resistance adaptation, induction motor.

Pages: 61-69

       Sarwoko Mangkoedihardjo
Phytotechnology insight for the flood plains along the river and riparian zone

Abstract: The case study was presented with the purpose of obtaining quantitative landscape span along the river and riparian zone. Field observations carried out in many places in Indonesia and also studied the experiences of some countries, all of which were intended to avoid similar mistakes in the future. Approach on spans establishment of riparian areas was in perspective phytotechnology for environmental protection. River water quality and riverbanks stability were discussed. The general picture riparian span was 100m, 10 times the maximum depth of the river, 44m for every 1m overflow river. The riparian span need to be corrected by taking into account the local topographic slope of landscape.

Keywords: river water quality, riverbanks stability, riparian areas

Pages: 70-73

      Moch. Agus Choiron, Shigeyuki Haruyama, Ken Kaminishi
Optimization of new metal gasket shape by using simulation experiment

Abstract: In the previous study, contact width could be used as a main parameter to optimize a new 25A size metal gasket design. The leakage could be reduced as increasing the contact width. In this study, the gasket shape is optimized by using simulation experiment. The design of experimentation (DOE) Taguchi method is used to analyze the effect of each parameter design and to predict optimal design of new 25A size metal gasket. The L9 orthogonal array is concerned to design the experimental matrix for four factors with three levels. The four factors are lip height (h), pitch (p), over hang (OH) and radius (R). The observed value is denoted by using the slope of the curve of relationship between contact width and clamping load. The slope of curve is increased; it will be reduce the clamping load. The result shows radius has a stronger influence on the contribution to increase the contact width. The optimum design of gasket based on the results of each observed values is a model with h=0.35 mm, p=4 mm, OH=2 mm and R=3 mm.

Keywords: Contact width, metal gasket, optimum design, Taguchi

Pages: 74-79

      Remy Uche, Diemuodeke O. Endurance
Energy optimization in a condenser water loop

Abstract: Energy optimization of a condenser water loop operation in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system has been done. The objective function, which minimizes the operating costs, was formulated on the analysis of thermal interaction between the cooling tower and chillers. The Genetic Algorithm (GA) was used to optimize the changes of outdoor environment and indoor cooling load based on the objective function formulated. The approach has the capability of solving the combinatorial optimization problem with both discrete variables and continuous variable.

Keywords: Energy, Condenser, Water Loop, Optimization, Thermal.

Pages: 80-87

      L. Pudjiastuti, A. Altway, N. Soewarno, Kuswandi
Carbon dioxide absorption into aqueous potassium carbonate promoted with methyldiethanolamine (MDEA)

Abstract: This paper presents kinetic data and absorption rate for aqueous K₂CO₃ promoted with MDEA. Kinetics of the absorption of CO₂ into 30 wt% K₂CO₃ promoted with MDEA were investigated at 303, 313, 323K by using a wettedwall column apparatus. Three system of which 30 wt % K₂CO₃ with 1,2 and 3 wt% boric acid were studied. The addition of 1,2, and 3 wt% MDEA to 30 wt% K₂CO₃ system results in a significant enhancement of CO₂ absorption rates. Two kinetic models were proposed in this work. The first model, based on second-order reaction rate constant measurement, give the average deviation (ARD) of 6.11%. While the second model, based on pseudo first-order reaction rate constant measurement, gives ARD of 14%. The first kinetic model is found to be more satisfactory in representing the CO₂ absorption into K₂CO₃+ MDEA + H₂O systems

Keywords: absorption, CO₂ removal, kinetics, promoter, MDEA

Pages: 88-97

      R.C. Jagessar, L. Sooknanan
Spectrophotometric determination of phosphates (po43-) anion in waste water from selected areas of coastal Guyana via the stannous chloride- molybdate calorimetric method

Abstract: Phosphates occur solely in waste water as Orthophosphates, Condensed or acid hydrolysed phosphates (Pyro, meta and ortho polyphosphates) and Organically bound Phosphate. Phosphate ion concentration in three selected areas of Coastal Guyana in the county of Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo was determined using Stannous Chloride- Molybdate Calorimetric, Spectrophotometric method. The first step involves the conversion of condensed and Organically bound phosphate ion to soluble Orthophosphate by acid oxidation using H2SO4 and HNO3 and the second stage involves the spectrophotometric determination of phosphorus in the soluble Orthophosphate at 660 NM by the molybdenum (Mo) blue method using stannous (II) chloride as the reducing agent. The applicable range of this method is 0.01 to 6 P/L. Accordingly, the highest concentration of phosphate occurs at the Stabroek (Demerara), Skeldon (GUYSUCO, Berbice Estate) and Ogle (Demerara), Rosehall (Berbice) district. These areas registered values of 1.927 mg/L, 0.532 mg/L and 0.526 mg/L respectively. The lowest concentration of 0.085 mg/l, 0.115 mg/L and 0.148 mg//L was registered at Supernaam (Essequibo), Parika (Essequibo) and Good Hope (Demerara) respectively. The UK Standard and the Caricom (1981 draft) for Phosphorus in potable water is 2.2 mg/L. The European Union (EU) maximum admissible concentration (MAC) of Phosphorus in Potable water is 5 mg/L.The world Resources Institution has identified 375 hyponix coastal zones of which Guyana is not included. It seems that the selected Guyana water is not polluted with Phosphate anion but Guyana’s water must continued to be monitored as Industrilisation and development increased.

Keywords: Phosphates, Orthophosphates, Condensed phosphates, Spectrophotometric, Berbice, Demerara and Essequibo, Maximum admissible concentration (MAC)

Pages: 98-107

      Jehad M. Yousef
Study the impacts of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and extract of green tea (theaceae family) leaves –induced on Kidney biochemical functions in rats

Abstract: Monosodium glutamate, also known as sodium glutamate and MSG, is a sodium salt of glutamic acid, a naturally occurring non-essential amino acid. It is used as a food additive and is commonly marketed as a flavour enhancer. It has the E number E621. Tea is a beverage consumable next to water world-wide, made from the leaves of theaceae family. Green tea tree, agriculture in China and India, contains good medical properties. Aim of this study; Study the impacts of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and extract of green tea (theaceae family) leaf– induced on Kidney biochemical functions in rats. In this study, sixty Male Wister Albino Rats, who weighed 100-150 gm, were maintained in clean cages. The rats were divided into 3 groups, each group contained 20 rats. The first group acted control drinking water. The second, third groups was injected (4mg/kg B.W.) I.P. of pure monosodium glutamate (MSG) from the first day to day 21.

Keywords: Green tea, glutamate, MSG, Kidney, Urea, UA, MDA, XO, Rat

Pages: 108-112

       R.S. Al-Wasify, G.E. El-Taweel, M.M. Kamel, M.A. El-Laithy
Comparative Evaluation of Different Chromogenic Media for Detection of E. coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. in Water

Abstract: The main aim of this study was to evaluate some chromogenic media for detection and enumeration of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. in water. Sixty surface water samples were collected from River Nile, Egypt. The purpose of the study was to compare Hicrome EC O157:H7 Selective agar (HEC, Himedia, India) and Rainbow agar O157 (RB, Biolog, USA) for detection of Escherichia coli O157:H7, Hicrome Listeria agar base (HLA, Himedia, india) and BBL CHROMagar Listeria (BD, USA) for detection of Listeria monocytogenes and Hicrome Improved Salmonella agar (HIS, Himedia, India) and Oxoid Salmonella chromogen agar (OSCM, Oxoid, Germany) for detection Salmonella spp. using membrane filtration technique. The isolates were confirmed using PCR technique. Percents of specificity, sensitivity and efficiency were used to compare between all used chromogenic media. Thus it can be concluded that using of these chromogenic media were specific, sensitive, rapid and not required any confirmatory tests.

Keywords: Chromogenic media, E. coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonellae spp., membrane filtration.

Pages: 113-117

       A.A. Haggran, A.B. Abdel-Razik, O.A. Elgebally, S.A. Ibrahim, B.E. Khalil
Genetic improvement of some yeast strains to produce unsaturated fatty acids

Abstract: Six strains of Rhodotorula sp and S. cerevisiae were selected to increase the content of lipids and fatty acids. They subjected to introduced in genetic improvement programs. The first genetic improvement of the productivity technique is by using mutation. Five strains were exposed to different doses of the chemical Mutagens EMS (250, 500, 1000 μl/100ml). Fifty seven different mutants were obtained. The mutant M17 from Rhod5 strain is the highest productivity of fatty acids by 3.4%. The Higher mutant in production level M17 was selected to the second step mutagenesis. Ten subjected to mutants were selected. The mutant M17 (9) was the highest in productivity of fatty acids by 3.5%. Mutant M17 (9) has been introduced in the third step mutation, and get 10 mutants, but without an increase in production, where production was not affected after the second step mutation. Two out of these mutants were auxotrophic mutants as a genetic marker were selected. Leu- , his- requirement these marked mutants were taken as parents for second genetic improvement program i.e protoplast fusion. The third parent Sac1 strain belonging to S. cerevisiae. The previous three parents were subjected to protoplast fusion program. The protoplast fusion between parents leu-* his- resulted in three colonies represent the successful of protoplast fusion, but without an increase in the production of fatty acids rather than the parent. The result of protoplast fusion between parents Sac1 * leu- is produce three colonies represent the outputs of the successful protoplast fusion, but also without an increase in the production of fatty acids.

Keywords: Yeast, mutation induction, protoplast fusion, lipids, fatty acids.

Pages: 118-124

       Bambang Rahadi, Sri Hastari
Micro sprayer irrigation for controling production and quality of madura tobacco

Abstract: The main problem of low land tobacco production in Madura Island is lower quality than tobacco from mountain. The objective research is to improve tobacco production quality by management and measurement of giving water using micro sprayer. This research was conducted at Sumenep Madura. An analysis used is factorial randomized block design. Result research showed that watering method by micro sprayer resulted wide leaf growth and better leaf quality than conventional watering by farmer. Production by micro sprayer watering method is higher than conventional method by farmer, that is 760,83 kg/ha and 673,53 kg/ha. When planting in mid of June resulted the highest production than early of June and early of July, these are 907,65 kg/ha. Water efficiency by micro sprayer method is more efficient that conventional method by farmer.

Keywords: watering management, quality, tobacco.

Pages: 125-128

       Hoda A.M. Habib, M.R. Shafeek, M.F. Zaki, Z.S. El-Shal
Response of potato plants ( solanum tuberosum L.) to foliar application with different sources of potassium

Abstract: This study was carried out at the private farm at El-Kalubia Governorate, which located at the Middle of Delta, during the winter and summer seasons of 2009 /2010 to test the effects of two sources of potassium (KH₂PO₄ and KNO₃) and control ( 50 % K₂O) with two levels of KH₂PO₄ (1.25% and 2.5%) and two levels of KNO₃ (1% and 2 %) on the growth, yield, yield component and nutrients uptake of potato plant. The highest plant growth, chemical content of leaves and tubers as well as tuber yield and quality were obtained by foliar spray of mono potassium phosphate ( KH₂PO₄) at 2.5 % followed in descending order by those foliar spray of KNO₃ and recommended by Ministry of Agric. + 50% K₂O (control). The increasing K fertilizer rates was associated with the highest yield, better quality and dry matter contents. By increasing the percentage of their dry matter, the shelf life increased significantly and decreased NO₃ concentrations in potato tubers and hence it may promote the health of consumers.

Keywords: potato; potassium sorces and levels; growth; yield; tuber quality; chemical contents

Pages: 129-132

       Amal S. Abd EL-Azeem, Amany M. Hegazy, Maha H. Mahmoud, I.H. Badawy, F.A. EL-Shobaki
Efficiency of Fortification of Formulated School Meals with Iron to Alleviate Anemia

Abstract: This study aims to test the effect of four meals formulated to school feeding program on iron used for fortification to alleviate anemia among children. Ingredients used for the preparation of the four meals were germinated broad beans, spinach, tomato, carrot, chickpea, sesame and dried dates. The iron salt used for fortification of these diets was ferrous sulphate, added to the salt mixture to give a concentration of 55.5 ug elemental Fe/100g diet. A feeding experiment was done on rats rendered anemic by blood phlebotomy. The experiment lasted for 6 weeks. The food intake of rats fed on each of the iron fortified meals was significantly higher than similar values for controls. The highest value was attained for rats fed on the date diet 579.86 ± 23.56 g compared to a value of 476.86 ± 17.6 g for control. The body weight gain of rats fed on each of these meals was also higher than that of control rats. At the end of the feeding period, an appreciable improvement in hemoglobin concentration occurred. The low serum iron of anemic rats reached a value near to that of normal. The obtained values ranged from 142.94 ± 7.13 µg/dl for rats fed on the date diet to 195.91 ± 6.52 µg/dl for rats fed on the germinated bean diet. The high total iron binding capacity of anemic rats decreased to values ranged from 376.40 ± 20.23 µg/dl for rats fed on dates to a value of 504.36 ± 6.42 µg/dl for rats fed on the control diet fortified with iron. The percentage saturation was increased, ranged between 31.1% for the control rats and 47.0% for rats fed on the germinated beans. It was concluded that the formulated meals prepared for nourishing primary school children can be used as a vehicle to be fortified with iron to combat anemia that prevail among children.

Keywords: Fortification, Anemia, Iron, School meals, Bioavailability.

Pages: 133-139

       Madiha M. Abdel-Kader, Seham S. Kassem, Enas N. Danial, A. Abd El Raouf, Emtenan M. Hanafi
Evaluation of Ferula hermonis root extract as a growth promoter

Abstract: Herbs are used worldwide for many different reasons. Some help to cover the needs to essential nutrients and others to increase performance, food intake and thereby optimize feed utilization. Herbs or botanicals can be seen as potential alternatives to metabolic modifiers and antibiotics. Ferula hermonis (FH) has been prescribed as a tonic, stimulant for both male and female known as Lebanese ginseng. The study was designed to evaluate the herb as a growth promoter. Forty eight growing rat were divided into two groups, (24 males and 24 females). Each group then subdivided to three groups, the first one act as a control, while the other two groups were given 0.010 and 0.020 ml/ 100 g body wt from herb water extract 50% respectively. Aminals treatment twice weekly for 5 successive weeks then slaughtered and examined for the changes in serum chemistry, cytogenetic alterations in bone marrow and some molecular changes in testis, liver, kidney and brain. The herbal extract was examined for antimicrobial and antioxidant effects. Chemical analysis of the herb components and fractionation of fatty acid was carried out. Results revealed that the herb is rich in carbohydrate, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, calcium and vitamins such as vitamins A and E. Also unsaturated fatty acids were present in abundance specially linoleic and α-linolenic fatty acids. The study revealed that FH is strong anti-bacterial and antioxidant. Herb has high nutritive value. It is hepatoprotective, hematenic, growth promoter, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic and very safe as well as side effect free. It kept the nucleic acids and tissue proteins within normal values and it can be used as a drink with cinnamon or orange flavor for human consumption.

Keywords: Ferula hermonis, Silsh El, zallouh, growth promoter, antimicrobial, Feed conversion rate, Chromosomal aberrations, pube.

Pages: 140-147

       Kamuran Sami, Ilkay Ozdemir
The vernacular houses of Harran and cultural heritage-Turkey

Abstract: The vernacular, beehive-domed houses of Harran, which can be dated back approximately 150-200 years, are located in the southeastern region of Turkey. There are few published studies on these houses, and what studies do exist mainly address the entire area’s ancient buildings, rather than the above-mentioned vernacular houses. Therefore, this paper presents information about the beehive-domed houses in Harran, including their history, relation to nature, present situation, value as relics of cultural heritage, and the current policies in place for their protection. By presenting here the cultural value of these houses and their unfortunate present status, this author expects to contribute to the protection and management policies of this valuable area.

Keywords: Harran; Cultural Heritage; Domed Houses; Vernacular Settlement; Functional Change.

Pages: 148-157

       İlkay Maşat Özdemir, Funda Kurak Açıcı, Şebnem Ertaş
Workspaces of female architects and designs:the example of Trabzon Turkey

Abstract: Power in architectural sense has been in the hands of the men from the old times until today. Such problems as social gender, ethnic identity, power, class, race, discrimination have been present every time. Considering the fact that men and women live together in the society it is quite interesting that men are so much responsible from the formation of the society and the spaces. It is observed that men far outweigh women in the architecture profession which is seemingly preferred by more women.

Keywords: female, architect, workspace, city, design, KTU.

Pages: 158-164

       Zeynep Yilmaz Bayram, Ahmet Melih Oksuz,Yelda Aydin Türk, Ayşe Sağsöz
The problems of the elderly in the use of public spaces and their expectations: a pilot study in Trabzon (Turkey)

Abstract: Childhood, youth, adult and elderly are the stage of life circle of human’s life. Elderly, is a phenomenon as old as man kind, is the last stage of the circle of lifetime. In this stage meaning of life and peculiarities of life change and people become more vulnerable towards environment; social and physical. Expertise come from different fields of interest search solutions to the problems that elderly people to be cope with in his/her daily life. In this study, elderly’s problems met in urban physical space are examined in the context of “Gender Mainstreaming” (GM). The policy in question is used in countries which are members of European Union. The items that policy’s concerned are evaluated in relation to Trabzon’s data obtained by the field survey.

Keywords: Elderly, Public Space, Gender Mainstreaming

Pages: 165-173

       Masoud Safari Ali Akbari
Investigating the Aspects of Sustainable Development in Iranian Rural and Regional Planning

Abstract: This manuscript concentrates on sustainability appraisal as a key technique for continuing the political aim of ‘sustainable development’ within Iranian planning. It concludes that unlike many planning tools of the past which have sought to depoliticize decision making by utilizing more ‘systematic’ techniques, the first experience of sustainability assessment has instead re politicized them, by emphasizing where tensions exist but without giving solutions.

Keywords: Planning; Regions; Iran; Sustainable development; Sustainability appraisal

Pages: 174-177

       Ahmed Mohammed Kamaruddeen, Nor'Aini Yusof, Ilias Said
Assessing the innovativeness of housing developers in Malaysia

Abstract: In this paper we assess the extent of housing developers’ innovativeness in Malaysia. The present research differs from previous studies by assessing the extent of innovativeness of housing developers in Malaysia. Using the proportionate stratified random sampling, to conduct a field study with a sample of 183 out of 504 questionnaires distributed, data were gathered from all micro, small, large and public-listed housing developers in the eleven states of peninsular Malaysia. Methodologically, this study is perhaps the first to assess the extent of innovativeness of housing developers in Malaysia. Using the five categories of innovativeness in the literature, statistical analysis reveals that the overall innovativeness of housing developers in Malaysia is adopters.

Keywords: Innovation level; Firm Innovativeness; Housing Developers

Pages: 178-183

       F.O. Ogundele, I.S. Akoteyon, Ayo Omotayo, S.G. Odewumi
Assessment of soil properties under a newly established teak plantation in Abia, Southwest, Nigeria

Abstract: This paper investigated whether the Teak plantation established a year ago by Lagos State Government Ministry of Agric and Co-operative at Abia-Badagry meet the soil and environmental requirement as obtainable in countries where Teak grows naturally. Also the study will also establish whether the establishment of Teak tree has changed the soil properties.

Keywords: Teak plantation, soil, planning, Lagos State, Abia

Pages: 184-190

      Mahmoud Rahimi, Naser Eqbali
Analysis of Factors Affecting Informal Settlements in Sanandaj

Abstract: As the urban development has overtaken the capacity and potentials of the governments and municipalities in extending the infrastructures and providing employment, informal settlements are quickly and irregularly increasing. Studies performed on the informal settlements in Sanandaj (Kurdistan province) suggest that the majority of immigrations to the suburban areas of Sanandaj are from rural areas and are resulted from economical and security concerns (during the imposed war of Iraq against Iran and insecurities within the province). Studies on comprehensive and detailed plans of Sanandaj show that no better position has been considered for the lowincome urban classes.

Keywords: Housing planning- Informal settlement- Low-income urban classes- Correlation matrix- SWOT technique- Suburban textures of Sanadaj Abia

Pages: 191-196

      Mostafa Yousefirad, Hamideh Noroozpour
Quaternary stratigraphy and evolution of the Meighan depression, Central Iran

Abstract: The Mieghan area lies between the Sanandaj–Sirjan and central Iran zones. The quaternary stratigraphy, sedimentology, and tectonic properties have been used to determine the evolution of this area in the Quaternary. Quaternary tectonic events have acted in the study area with different intensities and in different ways to cause a depression in the Meighan basin called the Meighan depression. The activity of the tectonic phases was greater on the Quaternary deposits in the north and northwest of the Meighan depression than in the southwest, which shows no effects of tectonic activity. Important lineaments observed in the Meighan depression have acted together with isostatic forces in the north and northwest, because the depression is larger in these regions.

Keywords: Cromerian, Pasadenian, Stratigraphy, Meighan depression

Pages: 197-203

       Alaa Eldin Elshafey, Nadia Abdel Kader, Nahla Barakat, Ayman Azab, Laila Bastaki, Sadika Al-Awadi
Clinical and Molecular Genetic Study of Familial Mediterranean Fever in a Mixed Arab Population

Abstract: Aim: This study aimed to review the clinical and demographic features of Familial Mediterranean Fever, to determine the spectrum of MEFV mutations among Arab patients in Kuwait and to evaluate the genotype/phenotype correlations in FMF patients. Subjects and Methods: Eighty Arab patients suspected to have FMF were enrolled in this study. For all patients, clinical diagnosis according to Tel-Hashomer criteria was performed and DNA analysis for the common 12 MEFV gene mutations was done. Chi square and student T test were used for statistical analysis of the results. Results: There are both high frequency of V726A and a unique high frequency of M694I in Arabs compared to other ethnic populations. In contrast to previously published results, M694I, and not M694V, was found to be the commonest detectable allele among Egyptian patients with FMF. None of our patients had amyloidosis and there was no detectable genotype/phenotype correlation among them. Conclusion: Each population has its specific disease severity irrespective of MEFV gene mutation. Detection of the spectrum of MEFV gene mutations in each ethnicity is of utmost importance for early diagnosis and treatment of FMF.

Keywords: Arabs, FMF, Genotype/phenotype correlation, MEFV gene.

Pages: 204-208

       O.A Bolarinwa, A.G. Salaudeen, S.A. Aderibigbe, O.I. Musa, T.M. Akande
Knowledge and attitude of primary health care workers in a north central state of Nigeria toward safe injection

Abstract: The knowledge and attitude of Health workers has major role to play in safe injection practices. The objective of this research was to assess the knowledge and attitude of Primary Health Care Workers (PHCWs) on safe injection practices in a North central state of Nigeria. It was a cross-sectional study using a multi stage random sampling to select 247 PHCWs in Ilorin, Kwara state capital. Pretested semi structured questionnaire was used to collect data from selected PHCWs while Epi- info was used to analyze the data. Level of significance was set at pvalue of ≤ 0.05. It was observed that there were more than 60% of PHCWs that had good knowledge of unsafe injection while over 80% of them had good attitude. Only 36% of them could however mentioned correctly diseases that could be transmitted by unsafe injection while cadre (p=0.00064413), training (p=0.0000000) and years of experience (p=0.00194655) significantly affect their knowledge. It was therefore concluded that there was poor indepth knowledge of safe injection among PHCWs and factors like cadre, training and years of experience have effect on their attitude and knowledge. It was recommended that there is need to intensify training on core aspect of safe injection among health workers in Nigeria.

Keywords: Knowledge, Attitude, Injection, North Central Nigeria.

Pages: 209-214

       Ebtesam Zakaria, Mahmoud Mahfouz,Yomna Khaled Hoda el Rawi, Lila Ahmed, Farid G. Amin
Pattern of ischemic stroke in type 2 diabetes

Abstract: Cerebrovascular stroke disease causes 20% death in diabetic patients. Diabetic patients more often develop ischemic strokes and have an increased proportion of lacunar strokes that may be clinically silent, diabetic patients have a worse prognosis with a two folds increase in likelihood of subsequent strokes. The aim of this work is to study the difference in pattern, severity and prognosis between ischemic stroke in non diabetics and those with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

Keywords: ischemic stroke, type 2 diabetes

Pages: 215-221

       Aigbe Gladys Osariemen
Spatial aspects of utilization of maternal health services in Lagos state, Nigeria

Abstract: This study based on the household survey of 1,337 women in three social areas of Lagos State, examines the pattern and differentials in the use of preventive health services by mothers. The study postulates that there are spatial differences in the utilization of maternal health (MCH) services. Place of residence exerts significant impact on preventive health service uptake because neighbourhood zones are characterized by differential access to health facilities. Multivariate Analysis was employed in the examination of the pattern of antenatal care (ANC) by mothers. The findings indicate that maternal residence and distance factors are key variables in the explanation of differential patronage pattern of the preventive health services under study. The findings underscore the need for the provision of modern health facilities in areas where they are inadequate to ameliorate the effect of distance factor on increased coverage level. In addition, the paper calls for community mobilization and comprehensive education programmes targeted at women on the benefits of uptake of preventive health services.

Keywords: spatial; social areas; maternal; health service; utilization

Pages: 222-227

       Azrulhizam Shapi'i, Riza Sulaiman, Mohammad Khatim Hasan, Abdul Yazid Mohd Kassim
Computer-aided preoperative planning for total hip replacement

Abstract: The field of orthopaedics has become increasingly influential at present as the number of patients diagnosed with osteoporosis increases each year. According to experts from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (PPUKM), conventional identification methods are still used to find a suitable implant size for the patient. Therefore, a digital method should be developed so that the implant size identification process can be effectively implemented. This paper presents current applications of computer technology in the field of medical and preoperative planning for total hip replacement (THR). The computer-aided preoperative planning offers simple solution by using the digital x-ray and digital implant. We present a simple five-step process; input, digital image enhancement, planning and magnification, templating and output. We prospectively compared the utility and precision of preoperative planning performed in conventional method (printed x-ray) with that performed on computer-aided preoperative planning system in 10 patients undergoing primary total hip replacement. Results showed this system predicted stem component size well, with 80% within ±1 size of that used. Acetabular size was predicted slightly better with 90% within ±1 component size.

Keywords: total hip replacement, implant, templating, digital, preoperative, x-ray

Pages: 228-238

       Iyare Barry Sunday Egberanmwen
A Model for malaria disease transmission in pregnant and non-pregnant women

Abstract: A model for malaria disease transmission in pregnant and non-pregnant women is formulated. The different transmission dynamics of malaria disease to pregnant women and non-pregnant women are considered. The model was analyzed using analytical method. The local stability of the disease which is determined by the threshold parameter Ro was proved. The endemic equilibrium point was shown to be locally and asymptotically stable for Ro >1, showing that the eradication campaign using insecticide and insecticide treated nets would have to be a continuing one. This indicate that the value of the basic reproduction number would return to the above one value once the use of insecticide and insecticide treated nets as a measure of reducing the contact rate between infectious mosquitoes and pregnant and non-pregnant women is stopped. And since the endemic equilibrium is locally stable, the disease would return.

Keywords: Malaria, pregnant women, reproductive number, disease – free equilibrium

Pages: 239-245

       Abdul Wahid Hasyim, Teguh Hariyanto, M. Taufik, Haryo Sulistyarso
Urban land use change analysis using temporal multispectral imagery and image difference

Abstract: As the second largest city in Indonesia, Surabaya city with a population of more than 3 million people that has a function as a center of business, commerce, industry, and education in Eastern Indonesia into a strong attraction for the urban thereby providing an increasing number of residents each year. Based on Landsat TM and Landsat 7 ETM+ Surabaya city has an area of 372.667 pixels or 335.4Km ², physically experiencing very rapid growth of the city for almost 20 years (1990-2009) 55.5% and 13.6% of the total area of the city. Most shape of growing cities in Indonesia, where are always faced with problems with the shrinking of the green area. Through remote sensing and GIS technologies, carried out the stages of processing of Landsat TM (1990) and Landsat 7 ETM years 2000-2009, where Landsat imagery in 2007 and 2009 should be processed first, for the missing data can be improved, needs to be done charging referred to as the filling scan gap. Performed supervised classification using Maximum Likelihood method and the overlay with GIS technology from the year 1990-2009. The study shows a green area with land use: vegetation and mangrove from the years 1990-2009 Surabaya shrinkage is very rapid, from 48% (1990) shrank 37.1% to just 10.9% in 2009, when calculated on the basis of extensive due 335.4Km² siltation thereby increasing the land area on the east side of the city of Surabaya at 7.1Km².

Keywords: land area, Surabaya city, temporal multispectral imagery, image difference

Pages: 246-251

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

       João Pedro Couto
Identifying factors for the poor public institutions performance in Portuguese construction industry

Abstract: The lack of competitiveness of the Portuguese construction industry has been recurrently mentioned in the press and in technical literature. The duration of construction projects right from inception to completion is assuming great importance in the construction industry. A national survey on construction delays concluded that one of the main causes for construction delays is the recurrent lack of coordination and delays from the promoting institutions. From 118 causes for delays, 3 connected with public institutions performance and relationships are within the 15 most relevant. This paper critically discusses the problem of poor institutional performance in Portugal using literature and data from a set of interviews inserted in a national survey with expert construction managers. The main factors for the poor performance of those institutions will be established. A number of measures will be then identified in order to lessen the problem.

Keywords: construction delays, public institutions performance, survey, improvement measures

Pages: 252-257

       Remy Uche
Treatise and essence of conflict management in business organization

Abstract: This paper attempts to show that conflict is not in totality a bad omen in the realization of goals and objectives of an organization. Two sources of conflicts in an organization were identified. The work shows the sources are individual or organization based. The management of identified sources of conflicts will either trigger off increase in the productivity of the organization or decline in productivity and eventual collapse of values and targets. The economic importance of conflicts is presented.

Keywords: management, business, conflict, organization activity

Pages: 258-262

       Chin-Feng Lin, Hong-Sheng Hsieh, Hui-Fang Wang
Exploring the effective literal contents of exotic restaurant websites

Abstract: This study adopted the means-end chain (MEC) methodology and content analysis in order to uncover the effective literal contents of exotic restaurant websites and enhance their competitive advantages. The analytical results indicated that once consumers can be persuaded by the literal appeals, they are more willing to dine in the restaurant. Based on the findings of this study, ‘restaurant style’ is an important attribute for customers when choosing which restaurant to dine. Thus, creating a unique and special restaurant style can attract the attention of customers. Similarly, creating a unique and special webpage style can make Internet users spend more time on the site. The suggestions and managerial implications are also discussed in this study.

Keywords: Content analysis, Exotic restaurant, Means-end chain

Pages: 263-266

       Hamadu Dallah
Investigating the volatility of Nigerian currency against major developed World (G-4) currency exchange rates returns

Abstract: Forecasting exchange rates is an important financial problem that is receiving increasing attention globally. This paper investigates the volatility of daily spot exchange rate returns of Nigerian Currency (Naira) against four major developed World (G-4) currencies (the United States Dollars (USD), the British Pound Sterling (BP), the European Union (euro), and the Japanese Yen (JY). Empirical results findings indicate evidence of market regularities hypotheses and the adequacy of the competing symmetric and asymmetric generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedastic (GARCH) volatility models considered in the present study. Moreover, the asymmetric threshold GARCH model provides a more suitable paradigm for modelling and forecasting the Naira rates with the US Dollars and the Japanese Yen as it has outperformed other competitors in both model performance evaluation and out-of sample volatility forecasts. However, the popular GARCH method gives a better representation for the euro and the BP exchange rates. Further analysis findings based on Granger causality tests results indicate the existence of positive co-movement of the G-4 currency rates in the Nigerian foreign exchange market. The present findings have far reaching policy implications to market participants and particularly the investing community who need to be well informed about the risk involved in holding each of these currencies.

Keywords: Exchange Rate Returns, G-4 Currencies, Symmetric and Asymmetric GARCH Models, Model Evaluation Criteria, Out-of Sample Forecasts, Co-movement Analysis.

Pages: 267-278

       Mihai Neag, Aurelian Raţiu, Lucian Ispas, Marius Pricopi
A Human security integrated approach of post-conflict reconstruction actions

Abstract: In future confrontations, military or otherwise, characterized by a high degree of complexity and incertitude, when military forces become multinational/joint bodies, acknowledging the necessity of and developing different mechanisms for integrating the actions of all the power instruments (political, diplomatic, economic, informational, civilian) constitute, in our opinion, a priority of major importance.

Keywords: integration; coordination, civilian and military power instruments, post-conflict reconstruction, human security.

Pages: 279-282

       José Chavaglia Neto, José António Filipe
A view of common property through neuroeconomics in the context of decision-making processes

Abstract: Neuroeconomics is presented today as a very interesting alternative in the study of economic problems. Its use shows how human beings, while not being strictly rational, make decisions that go beyond pure economic rationality. Therefore, the techniques used on the minds of individuals bring new perspectives to the perception and explanation of the economic reality. This study makes an incursion into these matters in the analysis of common properties.

Keywords: Neuroeconomics, Decision, Bounded Rationality, Homo Economicus, Commons

Pages: 283-287

       Wael Moustafa Hassan
Risk management practices: a comparative analysis between Islamic banks and conventional banks in the Middle East

Abstract: The main purpose of this research is to examine the degree to which Islamic and conventional banks use risk management practices and techniques in dealing with different types of risks in the Middle East region. This study also intends to identify the most important types of risk facing the Islamic banks and conventional banks in the Middle East. A multi-regression model and ANOVA test, used to examine seven hypotheses of this research. The results revealed that, there is a positive relationship between risk management practices and understanding risk, and risk management, risk identification, risk assessment and analysis, risk monitoring, risk, and credit risk analysis in Islamic Banks and Conventional Banks. Also, there is no significant difference between Islamic Banks and Conventional Banks concerning risk identification. However, there are significant differences between Islamic Banks and Conventional Banks regarding the rest of explanatory variables.

Keywords: Risk Management, Risk Practices, Islamic Banks, conventional Banks

Pages: 288-295

       Eugenia Iancu, Paul Pascu, Nicolae Morariu
The audit process and the new era of informatics

Abstract: The importance that the informational and communicational technologies represent, in all of the economical and financial activities, was sensed also in the computerized system environments of the financial audits in almost all entities. The use of the computer involves changes in the financial information processing, memorizing and communication methods, in the operating methods and processing renewing forms and in modifying the accounting and internal control systems adapted to the exigencies of the International Audit Standards, International Accounting Standards and International Financial Reporting Standards.

Keywords: Risk Management, Risk Practices, Islamic Banks, conventional Banks

Pages: 296-301

       N.N. Savina, S.B. Ignatov
The experimental work at the formation of the ecological-legal competence of the pupils

Abstract: Ekologo-legal competence is one of the major components of pupils culture. The article dwells upon theoretical and methodical aspects of forming ekologo-legal competence. It is pointed out that one of the most effective technologies in this aspect a specially organized project research activity.

Keywords: culture, ekologo-legal competence, designed activity.

Pages: 302-303

       Hsiang-Yung Feng, Ting-Yuan Chang
A study on knowledge base trust in adopting e-transaction

Abstract: On-line sales are more and more important for marketing strategy around the world than before. As of March, 2010 in Taiwan, the total number of subscribers of wired broadband Internet reaches 6.53 millions, and the household computer penetration rate also reaches 82.8% in 2010. That means there are over 63.8% Internet users and 88.8% Internet users at least are on-line at home. Internet users’ on-line time become longer than it used to be, that make correlative factors between on-line time and on-line purchasing behaviors to be popular issues in these years.

Keywords: E-commerce, e-trust, reliability, e-transaction

Pages: 304-308

       Vítor João Pereira Domingues Martinho
Spatial effects and convergence theory in the Portuguese situation

Abstract: This study analyses, through cross-section estimation methods, the influence of spatial effects and human capital in the conditional productivity convergence (product per worker) in the economic sectors of NUTs III of mainland Portugal between 1995 and 2002. To analyse the data, Moran’s I statistics is considered, and it is stated that productivity is subject to positive spatial autocorrelation (productivity develops in a similar manner to productivity in neighbouring regions), above all, in agriculture and services. Industry and the total of all sectors present indications that they are subject to positive spatial autocorrelation in productivity.

Keywords: convergence theory, Portugal, cross-section estimation methods, spatial effects

Pages: 309-320

       Ata Atun
Unresolved Cyprus ıssue

Abstract: The Cyprus problem remaining unresolved seems in the first instance to be an obstacle to Turkey’s negotiations with the EU for accession. Actually the facts and realities in the island are rather different from the way they are seen from Europe. The “bi-zonal, bi-communal federation based on the political equality of the Greek and Turkish people, formed by Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot constituent states of equal status” framework set by the United Nations during the late seventies, aiming to achieve a sustainable and a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem, actually does not, any more, reflect the realities of the island.

Keywords: Cyprus problem, EOKA, EU, Turkish Cypriot, Greek Cypriot

Pages: 321-323

       Ata Atun
The varying geographical names in the island of Cyprus, recorded by the travellers since 23 B.C

Abstract: Island of Cyprus could be well claimed to be the most visited place and best cartographically documented island in the world due to it’s location on the main maritime passage way from Europe to Holy Land and end of Silk Road to Europe. The island's strategic importance through its situation at the cross-roads of Europe, Asia and Africa explains Cyprus's turbulent history and the importance of its ports and cities.

Keywords: geographical names, Island of Cyprus, history of Cyprus

Pages: 324-327

       I.N. Jona, T.A. Udoh
Stress and behavior problems among the physically challenged under graduates of University of Uyo

Abstract: The study investigated stress and behaviour problems among the physically challenged undergraduates of University of Uyo. Literature relevant to the study were extensively reviewed. The survey research design was adapted for the study, population of the study was thirty five physically challenged undergraduates out of which twenty eight were randomly selected, they were made up of nineteen males and nine female undergraduates.

Keywords: stress, behaviour problems, physically challenged undergraduates, University of Uyo

Pages: 328-332

      Emine Ozmete
Understanding of social capital with ecosystem approach

Abstract: It has been proposed that social capital, as an investment in social relations with an expected return in different aspects of individuals’ life. It should be defined that as resources embedded in social structure that are accessed and/or mobilized in purposive actions. A fundamental concept of the definition is resources. Beyond the basic individual, economic and, environmental/ physical resources needed to sustain and enhance human life.

Keywords: Social capital, capital, ecosystem, resources

Pages: 333-339

       George Papantonakis
Utopia-dystopia and Greek science fiction for children

Abstract: In this paper, we are investigating the presence of utopian and dystopian political regimes in Greek children’s and young people’s science fiction. The corpus of the texts we are studying shows that dystopia oppresses the citizens, whether they realize it or not, even when it is disguised as a utopia. In both cases, children and teenagers fight back and try to escape from the dystopia or to re-establish utopian conditions. As texts, these novels do not constitute a subgenre, but rather an allegory in which there is hope for a more desirable, better future. In this way, they contain transforming power and are not at all conservative, as some scholars argue.

Keywords: utopian and dystopian political regimes, science fiction, Greece, childrens, young peoples

Pages: 340-346

       Peter Kozdrin
Poetics of the first Russian translations of "The Pilgrim’s Progress"

Abstract: Bunyan wrote The Pilgrim's Progress in two parts, the first of which was published in London in 1678 and the second in 1684. He began the work in his first period of imprisonment, and probably finished it during the second. The earliest edition in which the two parts combined in one volume came in 1728. A third part falsely attributed to Bunyan appeared in 1693, and was reprinted as late as 1852. Its full title is The Pilgrim's Progress from This World to That Which Is to Come.

Keywords: John Bunyan, The Pilgrim's Progress, allegorical novels, translation, literary compositions

Pages: 347-349

       Muhammad Javed Iqbal, Moiz Uddin Ahmed, Abdul Rauf
Evaluation of examination system at Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU)

Abstract: Evaluation is the most significant tool to judge the success of a program. In the case of distance education institutes, like AIOU which has usually enrollment of more than one million students, the role of evaluation becomes manifold. In addition, the evaluation of “student evaluation system” i.e. examination system is itself a challenging job. Data about the examination system at AIOU was collected, analyzed and then formulated conclusions and recommendations.

Keywords: Evaluation, Formative Evaluation, Summative Evaluation, Distance Education, Assignments, Assessment, Examination

Pages: 350-356

       Musaud Asdaque, Asad Abbas Rizvi, Abdul Ghaffar, Muhammad Bilal
Allama Iqbal’s concept of Meer-e-caravan and its application to leadership styles of heads of secondary schools in Pakistan

Abstract: The major purpose of this study was to determine the Iqbal’s concept of Meer-e-Caravan and its application to leadership styles of heads of secondary schools in Pakistan. The area of school education was the focus of the study. The objectives of this study were: to enlist the different leadership styles of heads of secondary schools, to compare the leadership styles of head teachers of public schools with concept of Meer-e-Caravan and the last objective was to find out the ways of application of the concept Meer-e- Caravan in practical situations.

Keywords: Meer-e-Caravan, Allama Iqbal, secondary school, Pakistan

Pages: 357-360

       Rooh-Ul-Ain Laiqa, Rahmat Ullah Shah, Shahid Mansoor Khan
Attitudes of students towards classroom facilities in higher secondary schools

Abstract: Physical facilities of classroom are very necessary for effective teaching- learning process. Physical facilities affect students’ learning. The purpose of the study was to measure the attitudes of students towards classroom facilities in Higher Secondary Schools. The population of the study was comprised of all female students of class XII in Higher Secondary Schools of D.I.Khan. By using purposive sample,the researcher got filled questionnaires from 80 students. Attitude scale developed by the researcher herself was employed for data collection. Percentage was used for data analysis. Results showed that majority of students had very positive attitudes towards classroom facilities in Higher Secondary Schools,while others have positive attitudes in this regards. This is concluded that all Higher Secondary Schools have well-equipped classrooms.

Keywords: Attitude, classroom facilities, students, percentage

Pages: 361-365

       Ayse B. Aksoy
The impact of play-based maternal support on infant development

Abstract: In the current study, the impact of play-based maternal support provided via home visits on infant development is examined. The study group is comprised of 6 months of age infants and their mothers. The data is obtained by utilizing a development observation form and a development support observation form. Following the study, it is observed that maternal support involving home visits has a positive effect on language development in infants. Furthermore, it is detected that there exists a variety in plays and toys that mothers play with their infants.

Keywords: Infants, mothers, maternal support program, play, infant development, home visit

Pages: 366-372

       Muhammad Anwar, Hukamdad, Asaf Niwaz
Experience of e-learning in Pakistan: Perceptions and Suggestions of Graduate Students

Abstract: The present study was designed to evaluate the perceptions and suggestions of graduate students of virtual university of Pakistan. Firstly, through snowball sampling techniques 35 graduates of Bachelor of Computer Science (BCS) were selected working on managerial posts in multinational companies. Secondly, an open ended questionnaire was developed on facilities, course delivery, assessment criteria, marketing of cyberspace, job oriented content, and student teacher interaction to collect data. Thirdly, qualitative data were analyzed through constant comparison method. Lastly conclusions were drowned and suggestions were made on the basis of data. Some of the findings were: physical facilities provided in virtual compasses of major cities are better than campuses of small cities; courses are well planned and meeting the standard; delivery of lectures was very good but these are not being kept updated; assessment criteria is satisfactory; marketing aspect was very weak; course work was not meeting market demand; and student teacher interaction was also missing.

Keywords: E-learning, virtual learning, bachelor degrees, Pakistan, Perceptions and suggestions

Pages: 373-376

       Muhammad Ashraf Malik, Hassan Danial Aslam, Yousef Mahmood, Yousef Hameed, Main Muhammad Furqan, Aijaz Ahmed Gujjar
A study to analyze the role of television in non-formal education of peasants in Pakistan

Abstract: Education is the aggregate of all the processes responsible for bringing out desirable changes in human behavior enabling a person to improve his life style desirable with socio economic sector. Pakistan is the most populous country with 70% attached with agriculture. The only way that helps in providing awareness to the rural masses is nonformal education system.

Keywords: Nonformal Education, Awareness, Television, Rural Communities, and Peasant

Pages: 377-382

       Abdul Waheed, Mokbul Morshed Ahmad
Assessing the economic impacts of terrorism on informal day labourer sector in Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract: This study examined the economic impacts of terrorism on the day labourer informal sector workforce. With considerable insight into the economic effects, it could be revealed that terrorism has ominously impacted on the livelihood status of day labourers. Terrorism has resulted in retrenching day labour jobs with the day labourers facing regular decline in productive working days. In the aftermath of terrorism, the economic conditions of day labourers diminish due to decreasing household incomes. Equally important, owing to the security risks, people become more careful in hiring day labourers. Nowadays, day labourers could be hired only after having some personal references or personal identification documents. Moreover, job rotation is frequent among day labourers in order to minimize their layoff periods. Meanwhile, the limited working opportunities are forcing them to shift to other menial jobs or return to their native towns to seek for job opportunities in agriculture sector.

Keywords: day labourer; impacts of terrorism; informal sector; day labour market

Pages: 383-387

       Syed Naeem Bukhari, Hafiz Hifazatullah, Hussain Farooq, Shafiqur Rahman, Iltimas
Islamıc standıng (posıtıon) of tracıng famıly lıneage through DNA testıng

Abstract: Deciding relationship of someone to someone without substantial proof and evidence under the jurisdiction and boundary of Sharia is a complex phenomenon having different modes, may be through evidence, declaration or Qiyafa but sometimes due to lack of solid reasons decision is made on the basis of an inclined probability and belief without certainty. The paper under consideration therefore has sought new approach to the problem through DNA Test.

Keywords: Sharia, Qiyafa, DNA, Wedlock, Spouse

Pages: 388-390

2^st PART.  /   NATURAL AND APPLIED SCIENCES

       Tuan Salwani Awang Salleh, Effandi Zakaria
Integrating computer algebra systems (CAS) into integral calculus teaching and learning at the university

Abstract: This paper discusses the need to integrate technology into the teaching and learning of integral calculus at the university level. This issue was raised due to the decline in students’ integral calculus performance in the recent final examination at the university involved. The existing mathematics knowledge gap was identified as the major contributor to this problem. Decline of mathematics performance at the secondary school level and mismatch between students’ learning styles with teaching methods were identified as the factors for the existence of gap in mathematics knowledge at the university level. The literature review has shown that the use of computer algebra systems (CAS) in the teaching and learning of mathematics can act as a catalyst in understanding the abstract concepts in mathematics. Therefore, an innovative change in the teaching and learning of mathematics, particularly in integral calculus need to be implemented.

Keywords: Integrating technology, Computer Algebra Systems (CAS), Integral calculus

Pages: 397-401

      Rosário Laureano, Diana A. Mendes, Manuel Alberto M. Ferreira
Synchronization of chaotic dynamical systems: a brief review

Abstract: There are several reasons for the approach to chaos synchronization. This phenomenon is immediately interesting because of its high potential for applications. But, first of all, it is particularly interesting the study of a phenomenon that requires the adjustment of dynamic behaviors in order to obtain a coincident chaotic motion, being this possible even in chaotic dynamical systems in which sensitive dependence on initial conditions is one of the features. The possibility of applying techniques of chaos control in order to optimize the results of synchronization is alsoa motivating factor for the study of this phenomenon. It is presented a brief review of preliminary notions on nonlinear dynamics and then is considered in detail the synchronization of chaotic dynamical systems, both in continuous and discrete time.

Keywords: chaos synchronization, chaos control, local and global asymptotical stability

Pages: 402-408

      S.S. Miri-Nargesi, A. Keramati, H. Haleh, A. Ansarinejad
Assessing organizational readiness to implement customer relationship management using fuzzy analytical network process: a case study

Abstract: In the two last decades, customer relationship management (CRM) has become an important subject for business organizations from different sizes and fields. Previous researches report extraordinarily high failure in (CRM) projects. Thus, it is necessary to perform an assessment at the pre-implementation phase of a CRM project to identify weaknesses or problems which may lead to project failure. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to assess readiness of Iranian firms to implement CRM project.

Keywords: Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Fuzzy sets, Analytical Network Process (ANP)

Pages: 409-418

       A.F. Al Azawi, M.A. Fadhil
An Arabic text steganography technique using ZWJ and ZWNJ regular expressions

Abstract: Steganography is the art of hiding information in a cover media without attracting attention. Text documents have been widely used and steganogrphy in text is more difficult than other media because of a little redundant information. In this paper, a text steganography technique suitable for Arabic Unicode texts is proposed, together with its implementation. Arabic Unicode text uses two special characters, the zero width joiner character (JWZ) to join two letters and the zero width non joiner character (JWNZ) to prevent two letters from joining. This technique works at letter level and uses two regular expressions to generate a sequence of special characters that consists of JWZ and JWNZ characters to hide information. This technique has high hiding capacity, it may hide any file type in an Arabic Unicode texts and it does not make any apparent changes in the original text. So it satisfies perceptual transparency.

Keywords: Arabic text, Unicode, cryptography, hiding information, text steganography

Pages: 419-423

       Isabel Pedro, José António Filipe, Manuel Alberto M. Ferreira, Fidel Campos
Traceability in the cutting industry. Proposal of application in a poultry slaughter-house

Abstract: After several problems in the field of food safety, companies and regulatory bodies in the food sector felt the need to provide mechanisms that would help to increase the quality and safety of their products. One of the most powerful mechanisms to ensure quality and food safety is traceability, which can be defined as "the ability to trace the history, application or location of an item through information previously recorded".

Keywords: Traceability, Alimentary security, Information technology, Simulation

Pages: 424-430

      Khaldoun Batiha, Khaled Batiha, Amer AbuAli
The Need for IPv6

Abstract: Due to the growth of the Internet size and applications, the current address space and features provided by IPv4 is not enough. So the need for a new protocol that has larger address space and improvement features is needed. We introduce IPv6 as a solution for these problems by showing how this protocol will offers a huge address space which will be more than enough. And also by showing how it will provide improvement and new features in compare with IPv4. All of that will explain how much we need IPv6 today. We discuses new topics related to IPv6 such which are very important to make dealing with IPv6 in the internet more efficient and easier even with existing of IPv4 infrastructure. And also what makes dealing with IPv6 easier that its supported in the most operating system.

Keywords: IPv4, IPv6, Internet, Internet protocol

Pages: 431-448

       J.C. Obi, A.A. Imianvan
Breast cancer recognition using fuzzy classifier

Abstract: Breast cancer is a malignant disease that occurs when there is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the breast. Normally, cells in the breast that are old or damaged will stop dividing and die before they can become cancerous. These are cells replaced by healthy young cells. Breast cancer occurs when a genetic mutation causes old or damaged cells to continue to divide and multiply uncontrollably in the breast. This results in the development of a malignant tumor in the breast. Breast Cancers are caused by many factors which include late childbearing, early menstruation, never having children, obesity and estrogen. Symptoms include breast thickening and hard painless breast lump. In this paper, the traditional procedure of the medical diagnosis of breast cancer employed by physicians is expressed using Fuzzy classifier. The proposed expert system eliminates uncertainty and imprecise diagnosis of breast cancer.

Keywords: Breast cancer, fuzzy set, fuzzy logic, expert system fuzzy classifier.

Pages: 449-454

       Nkolika O. Nwazor, Christiana C. Okezie, Hyacinth C. Inyiama, Steve Ufoaroh
Computer-aided collaborative healthcare delivery with GSM-interface

Abstract: Health care systems are now changing due to the dynamic nature of technological and scientific medical practices. The advent of computers and wireless communication has gone a long way in aiding healthcare delivery. This Paper describes a Computer-aided collaborative healthcare delivery system with GSM interface. This system works in such a way that the medical records of patients at different clinics/hospitals under the control of the main medical centre which in the Nigerian context may be a Teaching Hospital are taken either manually or through Bluetooth-enabled medical devices.

Keywords: Collaboration, Electronic ward-round, healthcare, MDM, Research, GSM.

Pages: 455-461

       Muhamad Haddin, Soebagio, Adi Soeprijanto, Mauridhi Hery Purnomo
Gain coordination of AVR-PSS and AGC based on particle swarm optimization to improve the dynamic stability of the power system

Abstract: This paper presents the coordination axis of the automatic voltage regulation (AVR)-power system stabilizer (PSS) and automatic generation control (AGC) on synchronous generator to improve the dynamic stability of the power system. The critical mode damping value is analyzed by finding the minimum value of damping comprehensive index (CDI) which is used as fitness function of particle in the process of optimization using particle swarm optimization (PSO). Four main parts of the generation system are synchronous generator, AVR/excitation, AGC and PSS modelled linearly.

Keywords: coordination gain of AVR-PSS-AGC, dynamic stability, PSO

Pages: 462-470

       I.N.G. Wardana
Combustion characteristics of Jatropha oil methyl ester droplet in magnetic field

Abstract: The combustion of Jatropha oil methyl ester droplet in magnetic field has been studied experimentally. The droplet was ignited on the junction of K type thermocouple. The burning process was identified from the thermocouple signal and the flame images. The results show that the combustion process is strongly controlled by magnetic field. The attraction of oxygen by magnetic poles apart from the droplet on the one hand prolongs the ignition delay but on the other hand improves stoichiomtric air fuel ratio. At the same time the repulsion of hot combustion gas by magnetic poles toward the droplet increases the burning rate. The result from these two actions is the abrupt increase of the flame size growth and contraction rate.

Keywords: Jatropha oil methyl ester droplet, magnetic field, vegetable oil

Pages: 471-475

       C. Dhavamani, T. Alwarsamy
Review on optimization of machining operation

Abstract: In this paper an attempt is made to review the literature on optimizing the machining parameters in drilling processes. Various conventional techniques employed for machining optimization include geometric programming geometric plus linear programming, Non-Linear Programming, goal programming, sequential unconstrained minimization technique and dynamic programming etc. The latest techniques for optimization include fuzzy logic, scatter search technique, ant colony technique, genetic algorithm, Taguchi technique and response surface methodology are being applied successfully in industrial applications for optimal selection of process variables in the area of machining. Taguchi methods is latest design techniques widely used in industries for making the product/process insensitive to any uncontrollable factors such as environmental variables.

Keywords: machining operation, drilling process, programming, fuzzy logic, Taguchi methods

Pages: 476-485

       Remy Uche, Ukueje Etabiese Wisdom
Reliability model in gear life prediction

Abstract: This paper attempts to design a model with high reliability and capability of predicting gear life in functional machinery. It recognizes the impact of fatigue in the performance of different machine components as the dominant factor responsible for the failure of both the component and the entire machinery in operation. The paper identifies gears, cams, shafts and levers as vulnerable parts prone to fatigue failure. The work, therefore, advocates the use of a model based on statistical methods for predicting the fatigue life of gear components in machinery. It also incorporates similar models based on safety factor characterizations of fatigue process as a random function of strength and stress.

Keywords: Fatigue, Strength, Stress, Safety Factor and Life Prediction

Pages: 486-492

       Engin Gürtekin, Nusret Şekerdağ
The effect of sludge retention time and hydraulic retention time on biological phosphorus removal performance in anaerobic/anoxic sequencing batch reactor

Abstract: This study aims at evaluating the effect of sludge retention time (SRT) and hydraulic retention time (HRT) on biological phosphorus removal performance of an anaerobic-anoxic SBR. In the first part of the study, the hydraulic retention time was kept constant at 12 h and the reactor was operated at four different sludge retention times (20, 15, 10 and 5 days). COD removal efficiency changed slightly with the SRT. The highest phosphorus removal efficiency was obtained with 10 days SRT. In the second part of the study, the reactor was operated at varying HRTs of 8, 16 and 24 hours while SRT was kept constant at 10 days. HRT did not affect COD removal efficiency, whereas the highest phosphorus removal efficiency was obtained at HRT of 12 h. Based on the results, it was concluded that highest biological phosphorus removal performance in anaerobic-anoxic SBR system can be achieved when the SRT and HRT of the system were 10 days and 12 h, respectively.

Keywords: Biological Phosphorus Removal, Sludge Retention Time (SRT), Hydraulic Retention Time (HRT), Sequencing Batch Reactor (SBR)

Pages: 493-496

       Mohammad Bisri
Estimation of remaining usage age at sutami reservoir using sediment analysis

Abstract: The main problem in reservoir management was sedimentation. Design capacity of reservoir should be provided an additional capacity of reservoir that accommodated the amount of inflow sediment. Additional capacity was referred to as we called dead storage capacity. Usage age of reservoir was determined by the disaster that could damage the dam body or full reservoir storage. In the world, most of reservoir usage age was determined by reservoir sedimentation. This study would estimate the remaining usage age at Sutami reservoir. Malang Regency, East Java Province, Indonesia. This reservoir had been built in 1972 and it dued to land erosion and riverbed surface scour or inflow sediment to reservoir. Estimation of remaining usage age at Sutami reservoir used empirical-analytics method.

Keywords: sedimentation, dead storage, usage age

Pages: 497-500

       Gamal H. Elsaeed
Validating SSIIM 3-D numerical model to calculate local scour around bridge piers

Abstract: The main problem in reservoir management was sedimentation. Design capacity of reservoir should be provided an additional capacity of reservoir that accommodated the amount of inflow sediment. Additional capacity was referred to as we called dead storage capacity. Usage age of reservoir was determined by the disaster that could damage the dam body or full reservoir storage. In the world, most of reservoir usage age was determined by reservoir sedimentation. This study would estimate the remaining usage age at Sutami reservoir. Malang Regency, East Java Province, Indonesia. This reservoir had been built in 1972 and it dued to land erosion and riverbed surface scour or inflow sediment to reservoir. Estimation of remaining usage age at Sutami reservoir used empirical-analytics method.

Keywords: sedimentation, dead storage, usage age

Pages: 501-505

       Mohammad Massoud Vaseti
Simulate the Water Distribution Networks by Improved Newton-Raphson Method

Abstract: Newton-Raphson method is one of the popular iterative procedures and is widely used for hydraulic analysis of water distribution systems. Usually it is recommended to use H-equations by the Newton-Raphson method. However, this method is so sensitive to the initial guess values and if these values are not close to the final solution the procedure may not be converged. For H-equations the problem is more highlighted when pressure reducing valve or pump is introduced to the network.

Keywords: Water distribution network, Hydraulic equations, Newton-Raphson Method, Initial Guess, Head.

Pages: 506-510

       Mohamadtaghi Taghavifard, Mostafa Rostami, Seyed Mahdi Makhzan Mousavi
A Hierarchical Fuzzy TOPSIS Model for Evaluating Technology Transfer of Medical Equipment

Abstract: In this paper, a fuzzy hierarchical TOPSIS method is proposed for evaluation and selection of the best resource of technology. The purchase of technology usually called technology transfer is defined as the use of technology in where it has not been developed first. The technology transfer is a complex process that needs deep studies.

Keywords: Technology transfer; Fuzzy hierarchical TOPSIS; Medical equipment.

Pages: 511-519

       T.A. El-Shahawy, Faida A.A. Sharara
Hormetic effect of glyphosate on wheat and associated weeds

Abstract: Glyphosate has long been observed to stimulate plant growth, although the available data are very limited in this regard. The study aimed at investigating the hormetic effect of certain subtoxic doses of glyphosate on increasing growth and yield of wheat. The effect on associated weeds was also investigated. The study was performed in two successive seasons (2008/09-2009/10), and involved 7 concentrations 1.4, 2.8, 5.6, 11.2, 22.4, 44.8, and 67.2 g a.i./feddan representing 0.3, 0.6, 1.2, 2.4, 4.8, 9.6, and 14.4% of the usage rate of 0.467 kg a.i./feddan glyphosate, respectively.

Keywords: glyphosate; herbicides; hormesis; wheat; weeds.

Pages: 520-523

       Bambang Rahadi
The flood control using detention storage, a case study at the Sayang riverbank, East Java

Abstract: Objective of the research was to apply the SIMODAS model in order to predict the detention storage. The detention storage is an alternative to control flood. The Simodas Model is a spatial-distributed hydrology model, which is able to estimate the Detention Storage, spatial surface flow. It is important because flood is a periodic disaster in East Java due to the land use has no longer supportive properties to control the surface flow. Results of the research showed that (1) the rainfall in Sayang riverbank is included as heavy rainfall type. (2) Detention Storage of 2 m³/grid can be applied to control flood when the rainfall intensity reached 50 mm/hours. While the Detention Storage of 4 m³/grid can be applied to control flood when the rainfall intensity reached 70 mm/hours and 5 m³/grid could not afford to control flood that having intensity of 90 mm/hours. (3) The Detention Storage of 2 m³/grid has been able to control flood in the Sayang riverbank.

Keywords: Simodas, Flood Control, Detention Storage, Surface Run Off, land Use

Pages: 524-527

       Samy M. Mohamed, Emad M. Hassan, Khaled A. Abd Elshafeek, Azza M. Mohamed
Investigation of Flavonoidal Constituents and Hepatoprotective Activity of Myoporum laetum

Abstract: Fractionation and isolation of the butanol extract of Myoporum laetum (Myoporaceae) yielded five major flavonoids, luteolin 4`-O-α-L rhamnoside, 5-methoxy-luteolin 7-O-β-D-arabinoside, 5'-hydroxy-luteolin 7-O-β-Dglucoside (tricetin 7-O-β-D-glucoside), luteolin and apigenin. Their structures were determined by chromatographic and spectroscopic methods. The hepatoprotective and antioxidant activities of the butanol extract against liver injury induced by repeated doses of the profenofos as hepatotoxicant were investigated. Oral supplementation of butanol extract to profenofos treated animals successfully modulated the hepatotoxicant induces deviation in the liver function markers (liver oxidative and antioxidant markers) indicating its potential hepatoprotective and antioxidant abilities.

Keywords: Myoporum, flavonoids, hepatoprotective, antioxidant activity

Pages: 528-533

       Obuzor Gloria Ukalina, Nwaokolo Matthew Ifechukwude
Characterization of the fatty acids of gardenia Jasminoide flower from Port Harcourt, Nigerian

Abstract: Fatty acids of Gardenia jasminoide were analyzed and fourteen acids were observed. Ten acids were found only in trace amounts while the essential fatty acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid Linoleic is 53.65% “omega-6” with Oleic (a monounsaturated fatty acid “omega-9”), Palmitic (saturated fatty acid), and Stearic acids (saturated fatty acid) gave values of 23.00, 20.87 and 2.49% respectively. The physicochemical analysis gave the Acid value as 0.85mg KOH/g of oil, Free fatty acid (oleic) 9.76%, Iodine value 79.00 (g of 1/100g of oil), Peroxide value 14.42meq of active oxygen/Kg oil and Saponification value of 181.5mg KOH/g of oil. The concentration of micronutrients calcium, manganese, potassium, sodium and copper were found to be 1.694, 0.074, 2.712, 0.072 and 0.004% respectively.

Keywords: Fatty acid, essential oil, micronutrients, polyunsaturated, monounsaturated and lubricant

Pages: 534-538

       Salwa M. El-Shebini, Maha I.A. Moaty, Salwa T. Tapozada, Laila M. Hanna
Short term effect of Cyperus Esculentus supplement on body weight, insulin sensitivety and serum lipoproteins in Egyptian obese patients

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to establish a recommendation for the intake of functional foods in healthy regimen among obese subjects. Twenty four obese Egyptian women were included in this study as volunteers, with mean age 47.42 ± 1.42 years old and BMI 35.56 ± 0.69 kg/m². They followed a dietary therapy for 8 weeks. The first 4 weeks they followed a hypocaloric diet, supplemented with tigernut pudding to supply ≈ 900 kcal/day, while the last 4 weeks they followed hypocaloric regimen supply the same calories. Different anthropometric measurements, fasting blood glucose (FBG), serum lipid profile, insulin and C-peptide were determined.

Keywords: Obesity; functional food; insulin sensitivity; C-peptide; lipid profile

Pages: 539-544

       A.I. Voronov
Renal Bone Morphogenetic Protein -7 as a pathogenic factor of Diabetic Nephropathy

Abstract: New approaches in the diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia. Pathogenesis of schizophrenia was revised and updated. New immune method of treatment (without neuroleptics, anti-depressants and tranquilizers) achieved clinical improvement in patients with confirmed diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Keywords: Pathogenesis of schizophrenia; Treatment of schizophrenia

Pages: 545-548

       Ebtesam Zakaria, Hoda el Rawi, Laila Rashed, Ehab Hassan
Schizophrenia is between two anniversaries

Abstract: Longstanding diabetes causes renal injury with early dropout of podocytes, albuminuria, glomerular and tubulointerstitial fibrosis, and progressive renal failure. The renal pathology seems to be driven, in part, by TGF- β(transforming growth factor-B ) and is associated with a loss of renal bone morphogenic protein-7 (BMP-7) expression.

Keywords: diabetic nephropathy BMP-7

Pages: 549-552

       Hany M. Labib, Nervana A. Khalef, Sherif H. Emerah, Lekaa A. Moemen
Role of transforming growth factor β₂, connective tissue growth factor, matrix metalloproteinase-2 and its inhibitor in pathogenesis of glaucoma

Abstract: This study tries to detect the potential role of transforming growth factor β2 (TGFβ₂), connective tissue growth factor CTGF, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and its endogenous inhibitor, tissue inhibitor metaloprotines-2 (TIMP2) in pathogenesis of glaucoma. Aqueous humor samples were collected from 75 patients, 25 patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), 25 patients with Pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PEXG) and 25 subjects with senile cataract who served as controls. All patients underwent trabeculectomy or phacoemulsification surgeries. TGFβ, CTGF, MMP2, and TIMP2 levels were measured using enzyme immuno sorbent assay (ELISA). The mean aqueous humor TGFβ₂ was significantly elevated in POAG patients compared to both PEXG and controls.

Keywords: Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), TGFβ₂, CTGF, MMP2, TIMP2.

Pages: 553-558

       Bassem Sheikh, Raghed Atta, Mostafa AbdalMoneim
Chronic brain cortical recording using silicon-substrate microelectrode arrays implanted in cerebral cortex

Abstract: Background: The subject of brain-computer interface has gained high interest. Implantable microelectrodes for chronic neural recording are receiving renewed attention by a number of groups because of the interest in using ensemble spike activity and multichannel local field potentials as control signals in cortical neuroprostheses. Method: Electrical probes were designed to be a 5 mm long with 2 mm wide, conical in shape and with sharp tip. Probes were implanted in the cerebral cortex of experimental animals under general anesthesia. Neural recordings were obtained using Ossiloscope recording system. The extracellular signals were sampled and bandpass filtered from. Results: A constant voltage of 5μmV amplitude resulted in a current of less than 50 nA at 1 kHz. Impedance measurements were collected frequently from the operated animals. After animals’ scarification, cortical specimens around the areas of probes embedding were taken and histological sections were prepared, stained and studied to ensure that cortical reaction to the implanted probes was acceptable. Conclusion: The results of this project may provide a good scientific base for long term electrical recording of brain cortical activity. Moreover, the study may help in management of some common neurological diseases as epileptic seizure and Parkinsonism through long term probes insertion.

Keywords: Brain implants, neural stimulation, Brain-Computer interface

Pages: 559-566

       Yusr M.I. Kazem, Eman M. El-Sayed, Lobna M. Saber, Maha M. Abd El Latif
Can nutrition improve the prognoses of acute myeloid leukemia in Egyptian children?

Abstract: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the myeloid line of blood cells. Nutrition has been suggested to play a key role in improving the outcome of treatment among different types of malignancies. Defining the factors that affect prognoses is the first step to improve the outcome of the treatment .Several factors have been suggested to affect the prognoses, quality of life and rate of relapse in AML cases. This included angiogenic factors levels, nutritional status, and anthropometric measurements, social and environmental factors. The aim of this study is to determine these factors and to explore whether nutrition can improve the prognoses of AML.

Keywords: AML, children, prognoses, nutrition, angiogenic factors, anthropometric measurement, Antiangiogenic factors

Pages: 567-574

       Mohie M. Kamil, Gamal H. Ragab, Ahmed M. S. Hussien, Hatem S. Ali
Chemical, Physical and Microstructure of some Egyptian Wheat Varieties

Abstract: Gemmiza 7, Giza 168, Sohage 3 and Sakha 93 wheat varieties were evaluated chemically, rheologically and microstructure. Chemically, whole meal of Sohage 3 characterized with its higher content of protein (13.25%), while Giza 168 was higher in fat (2.7 %) and ash (1.85 %), and Sakha 93 was higher in crude fiber (3.56 %). Physically, whole meal of each wheat variety had higher water absorption than its flour (72%) but dough stability decreased. Also, falling number was determined to evaluate α amylase activity of wheat flour varieties.

Keywords: Egyptian wheat varieties, Rheological properties, Farinograph, Extensograph, Scan Electron Microscope, wheat grain cracks number

Pages: 575-581

       F.A. El-Shobaki, Seham S. Kassem, Madiha M. Abdel- Kader
Innovative forms of beverages with health value from vegetable and fruit wastes

Abstract: It is advisable to make use of the non edible parts of fruits and vegetables for preparation of an innovative form of beverages that are assumed to possess health value and accepted by consumers. The dry matter of Pomegranate peel, Artichoke leaves, Guava leaves, Orange peel were used to prepare beverages by simple extraction with boiling water. The antioxidant capacities of these beverages were measured by estimation of polyphenols as tannic acid and isoflavones as catachin. The methanol extract was used for identification of individual phenolic compounds performed on HPLC. Panel testing of beverages from the tested items alone proved that they are more or less accepted.

Keywords: fruits vegetables, wastes, antioxidants, beverages.

Pages: 582-588

       Sofiane Khelifa, Salem Kahlouche, Mohamed Faouzi Belbachir
Noise characteristics of GPS coordinate time series

Abstract: The aim of this study is to assess the noise characteristics in weekly solutions time series of coordinate residuals of 11 GPS stations, using the Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA) to extract the noise and the systematic signals such as trends and seasonal components, and the Allan variance to identify the noise type.

Keywords: Time series analysis; Singular Spectrum Analysis; Allan variance; GPS; Station coordinates

Pages: 589-596

       Nina Almasifar, Hanie Okhovat, Mohammad Reza Pourjafar, Ali Akbar Taghvaea
Utilization of Land Use Plan towards the Expansion of Sustainable Landscape in Arid Areas

Abstract: Against growth of population and technology improvement and follow that, destruction of natural home and developing of countries, the need for maintaining green spaces for creating ecologic balance gains significance, especially in hot and dry areas in which the plant is a factor for adjusting heat and increasing humidity. Regardless of bed structure and the ecological capacity of environment, designing goes towards unsustainable, specially because of deficiency in correct controlling of urbanism with destruction of plant coverage in arid areas, soil erosion has developed rapidly and gradually makes environment to a non-existent salt flat the study of determinative plan of plant coverage and land use in urban area and its suburb, provides information about structure manner, coverage existent potential, the manner of expansion and developing urban parameters, landscape design, and it's rate for management and great & small planning.

Keywords: Sustainable Landscape, Landuse Plan, Arid Area, Satellite Images, Competitive Neural Network

Pages: 603-613

       Lai Kong Seng, Nor'Aini Yusof, Nazirah Zainul Abidin
Types of innovation implemented by housing developers in a developing country

Abstract: Many have claimed that innovation is the key driver to overcoming the circumstances and challenges in the market, yet studies have shown that the implementation of innovation in the housing industry remains slow. Hence, the present study aims to investigate the types of innovation implemented by the Malaysian housing developers. A total of 181 housing developers registered under the Real Estate and Housing Developers’ Association (REHDA) in Penang and Selangor have been selected through simple random sampling. Questionnaire survey was used and delivered by facsimile and in face-to-face interactions.

Keywords: Developing country; Innovation; Market innovation; Product innovation; Housing developers.

Pages: 614-618

       Deniz Ayşe Yazıcıoğlu
Comparison of kitchen remodeling alternatives in respect of the costs involved

Abstract: Remaining within budget is of vital importance when planning the interior design of a building. Cost planning for a kitchen, the most expensive room of a house, is of special importance. Therefore, this study aims to compare kitchen remodeling alternatives with respect to their cost. In line with this purpose, certain restrictions have been defined in the first stage for increasing the reliability of the study’s results. Subsequently, kitchen remodeling alternatives have been identified in accordance with these restrictions.

Keywords: interior design; kitchen remodeling cost; budget

Pages: 619-627

       Yelda Aydın Türk, Yavuz Bayram, Zeynep Yılmaz Bayram, Ayşe Sağsöz
Trends in retailing through globalization: the case of Trabzon

Abstract: This paper investigates the progress in transformation in the retailing and service sectors due to urbanization, population growth and gradually increasing welfare and globalization. Reflections of these trends in Turkey are considered in the example of the city of Trabzon. The main findings of the paper are that globalization in political, economic and cultural contexts has been causing a transformation in the retailing sector and that this transformation has largely been in food-led cash-and-carry stores, department stores and hypermarkets. In the course of transition from markets to supermarkets, some small enterprises and neighbourhood shops like grocers, green grocers, butchers, bakeries, etc., have been closing.

Keywords: Urbanization, urban growth, globalization, welfare, retailing, services, transformation, shopping centers/malls.

Pages: 628-640

       F.O. Ogundele, Ayo Omotayo, S.G. Odewumi
Pattern and problems of deforestation in Southwestern Nigeria

Abstract: A new policy strategy of political decentralization of forest use and management which depict the bottom-top approach where all forest stakeholders who live and depend on forest resources are democratically elected to take charge of the administration and management, of forest resources within their geographical enclave should be adopted. It is when this is done, that we can be sure of abating the current rate of deforestation which has led to pauperization of the rural inhabitants as well as blighted on the national economy in general. The strategy will also bring about the desired sustainable forest management which is the goal of all government and non government forest bodies all over the world.

Keywords: forest management, forest biomes, forest conservation, forest resources

Pages: 641-654

HUMANITIES AND SOCIAL SCIENCES

      Tudor Colomeischi, Anamaria Geanina Macovei
Optimal contracts in adverse selection problem

Abstract: This article aims to present an important problem in the theory of contracts: adverse selection. It began with the presenation of model Principal-Agent the general form, stating the main contribution to its development over time. Next was attendedthe presentationof the problemof adverse selectionas the mainmanifestation ofasymmetric information. It isdescribedanadverse selectionmodelwith twotypesofAgents based on Macho-Stadler and Perez- Castrillo,makingacomparisonbetweenoptimalcontractsincaseofsymmetricandasymmetricinformation.

Keywords: adverse selection model, asymmetric information, Principal-Agent model, optimal contracts

Pages: 667-672

       Maran Marimuthu, Lawrence Arokiasamy, M. Fazilah Abdul Samad, M. Kishna Moorthy, Ng Kean Kok
Cashless society and the determinants: an empirical investigation

Abstract: The paper is specially designed identify the factors that affect the usage of payment cards as payment as argued in the current literature. There are seven factors are tested on the usage of payment cards with the use of appropriate measures using the 5-point likert scaling. A sample of 200 respondents is considered based on the stratified sampling method. All the constructs and variables are systematically developed and hypotheses are constructed according to the theoretical framework. The results indicate that only relative advantage, observability, and trialability are significantly correlated with the usage of payment cards. This paper offers some insightful information especially to the business class groups on the behaviour of the people towards the acceptance and usage of payment cards.

Keywords: Payment card, society, behavior

Pages: 673-682

       Tarek Taha Ahmed
An empirical-based model for examing e-purchasing intention in electronic commerce at developing counties

Abstract: The growth of e-commerce has made it clear that customer’s behavior in electronic commerce market has changed; and analysis of this behavior is a key aspect for the success of e-business. However, little research has empirically tested customer’s e-purchase behavior. Furthermore, most e-commerce literature has focused on developed countries, while the worldwide growth of e-commerce has shown the need to extend this research to other unstudied developing countries with different cultures.

Keywords: e-commerce; e-purchase intention; e-shops, online customer’s behavior.

Pages: 683-688

       Vítor João Pereira Domingues Martinho
Spatial Effects and Verdoorn Law in the Portuguese Context

Abstract: The consideration of spatial effects at a regional level is becoming increasingly frequent and the work of Anselin (1988), among others, has contributed to this. This study analyses, through cross-section estimation methods, the influence of spatial effects in productivity (product per worker) in the NUTs III economic sectors of mainland Portugal from 1995 to 1999 and from 2000 to 2005 (taking in count the availability of data), considering the Verdoorn relationship.

Keywords: spatial effects, Verdoorn law, Portugal, Portuguese regions.

Pages: 689-699

       Olu Akeusola, Omolara Daniel, Theodore Iyere
Analytical studies of various marketing approaches that could assist the growth of educational programmes of the open and distance learning institutions

Abstract: Education is now a global product with institutions worldwide competing for students and finding ever more creative ways to satisfy student needs and preferences. The optimism and belief in educational progress has gingered the new wake of marketing approaches that boarder on how to properly deal with the intricate issues of qualitative educational service, value as well as customer satisfaction. With the continuing rise in the preference for flexible distance learning, educational institutions are realising that when students and faculty have significantly different cultural backgrounds and learning styles that the expectations of the learning experience can be unfulfilled. Many years back, in Nigeria, education has been the sole responsibility of government. However, in recent years, the private sector has entered the market providing educational services at all levels.

Keywords: analytical studies, Educational programmes, distance and open learning.

Pages: 700-705

       Rooh-Ul-Ain Laiqa, Rahmat Ullah Shah, Shahid Mansoor Khan
Impact of quality space on students’ academic achievement

Abstract: Propose of the study was to investigate the impact of quality space on students’ academic achievement. The population of the study was students of second year of all Government Girls Higher Secondary Schools of Dera Ismail Khan. To conduct the experiment, the students of Government Centenial Model Girls Higher Secondary School No.6 were selected as sample. The study was delimited to the subject of Pakistan Studies. Eighty students of Intermediate part-II were divided into two groups of forty each. The duration of the experiment was three months. A subject specialist (Pakistan Studies) was selected to teach both the groups i.e. control and experimental.

Keywords: quality space, academic achievement, pre-test, post-test, impact, students

Pages: 706-711

       Shazia Naureen, Muhammad Munir Kayani, Shehla Naz
Teachers’ vıew on splıt board examınatıon at secondary level ın Pakıstan

Abstract: This research was conducted on teachers’ view on Split Board Examination at Secondary level in Pakistan. All the 140 secondary school teachers from 12 Federal Government High Schools in Wah Cantt constituted the sample of the study. A Questionnaire was developed for teachers after studying related literature. The data collected from the teachers was tabulated and analyzed keeping in view the objectives of the study. Mean was used as statistical tool.

Keywords: examination system, secondary level

Pages: 712-715

       Abdul Ghaffar, Asad Abbas Rizvi, Masood Asdaque, Muhammad Bilal
Factors contributing high academic performance at secondary level

Abstract: The quality of schooling is linked with the qualification of teachers, curriculum, educational materials, teaching methodologies, equipment and physical facilities such as well designed and well equipped classrooms and laboratories, availability of libraries, furniture, playgrounds, portable water, electricity, gas, boundary walls, text books and teaching. Beside this study focused o nthe factors that contribute to high academic performance of the students. The study is descriptive in nature and a survey was conducted to collect data from the secondary schools.

Keywords: Examination Systems, Physical Facilities, Rewards, Expectations, School Management and School Environment

Pages: 716-720

       Pantea Jahangir, Shokooh Navabi Nejad, Abdollah Shafi Abadi, Hasan Pasha Sharifi
Designing a structural model for predicting flexibility and cohesion in family for married women teachers in education organization of Tehran (based on self-differentiation dimensions)

Abstract: A family that sustains its members, that supports and nourishes the members throughout the span of that family. A strong family unit creates a safe, positive and supportive place for all members to thrive. They are able to utilize resources and to live together in a fairly healthy manner. The adults in a strong family set the tone. They are good role models that lead by example. They work together to solve problems, and they pass their skills on to the next generation. Some important elements of a strong family system are family cohesion, family flexibility and family communication.

Keywords: Structural Model, Flexibility, Cohesion, Family, Self-Differentiation, Tehran, Women Teachers.

Pages: 721-724

      Syed Afzal Shah , Muhammad Iqbal Majoka, Muhammad Saeed Khan
Analysis of educational indicators in different regimes of Pakistan (1978-2008)

Abstract: A study was conducted to analyze educational indicators in different regimes of Pakistan (1978-2008). The objectives of the study were to compare the focused educational indicators (total institutions, total enrolment, literacy rate and educational expenditures) in different regimes of Pakistan (1978-2008) and to compare educational expenditures and progress in term of increase in enrolment and literacy rate for the democratic period and dictatorship periods.

Keywords: Educational expenditures, enrolment, literacy rate, democratic period, dictatorship period

Pages: 725-729

       Anum Siddique, Hassan Danial Aslam, Mannan Khan, Urooj Fatima
Impact of academıc leadershıp on faculty’s motıvatıon, and organızatıonal effectıveness ın hıgher educatıon system

Abstract: Purpose - The terms “Leadership”, “Motivation” and “Organizational Effectiveness”, has been widely explored individually, but a conceptual framework linking these three concepts has not been formed up till now. Design / Methodology - The conceptual framework has been developed in this paper. First the terms as; Academic Leadership, Motivation of Faculty Members and Organizational Effectiveness, have been explored individually by exploring the work of previous researchers, and then the model has been developed instigating linkage among these variables. Findings - The conceptual framework is useful for the management and leaders of higher education to make the institute more effective and shows that how an effective institute can better serve their students, who are primary customers to them, and it further explore that how an effective leadership strategies can keep the highly qualified faculty intact. Contribution - The conceptual framework explains various leadership functions that can lead to an effective and successful academic organization.

Keywords: Leadership, Academic Leadership, Faculty’s Motivation, Organizational Effectiveness, Higher Education System, Intrinsic and Extrinsic Factors of Motivation.

Pages: 730-737

       Hassan Danial Aslam, Tasawar Javaid, Asif Tanveer, Mannan Khan, Farooq Shabbir
A journey from individual to organizational learning (Exploring the linking bridge)

Abstract: Every organization, for consistent growth in today’s hyper-competition environment, wants to retain its knowledge and continuous learning for competitive advantage. To address the said issue organizations have to think beyond individual learning and increase organizational memory/learning so that they can cope with challenging knowledge market. To achieve this, organizations must address the role of team learning, mutual mental models, collective knowledge integration and transfer of this collective wisdom from team to team until it become institutionalized learning.

Keywords: Team learning, Organizational Learning, Individual Learning

Pages: 738-745

       Mahnaz Saeidi, Nahid Jabbarpour
EFL teachers’ socio-affective strategy use in relation to students’ academic achievement

Abstract: This study investigated the relationship between teachers’ socio-affective strategy use and students’ academic achievement. Twelve senior level male and female EFL teachers in a language institute participated in the study. A questionnaire, containing 73 questions, was used to gather data. A set of questions (N = 53) in this questionnaire were answered by supervisors of the institute (N = 3) who observed teachers (using installed cameras) during the term. Another set of questions (N = 20) in this questionnaire were answered by the teachers’ students (N = 120). Students’ academic achievement was determined by their final exam scores. The results of the statistical analysis, Pearson's correlation, indicate that there is a significant relationship between teachers’ socioaffective strategy use and students' academic achievement. The study results suggest that in order to meet a high standard of successful teaching and increase students’ academic achievement, EFL teachers should use socioaffective strategies in their classes.

Keywords: socio-affective strategies; academic achievement; successful teaching; EFL teachers

Pages: 746-750

       Muhammad Bilal, Asad Abbas Rizvi, Abdul Ghaffar, Masood Asdaque
Relationship between first professional examination and previous performance of students in medical colleges of Punjab

Abstract: The objectives of the present study were to (a) Find out the relationship of the students’ performance in Higher Secondary School Certificate Examination with their performance in the Medical College Admission Test. (b) Find out the relationship of the students’ performance in the Medical College Admission Test with their performance in the First Professional Examination. (c) Find out the relationship of the students’ performance in the Higher Secondary School Certificate Examination with their performance in the First Professional Examination. (d) Find out the relationship of the merit scores of the students with their performance in the First Professional Examination.

Keywords: First Professional Exams, merit score, Test scores

Pages: 751-756

       Nabi Bux Jumani, Fazalur Rehman
Educational technology landscape - a Pakistani scene

Abstract: Educational technology (ET) has replaced the efforts of human in teaching and enhanced the better and quick understanding of learning process. It has taken up the vital place in education and by in large every educational organization. It is an application of software in terms of online courses, literature,its explanation, study material, eBooks, and internet in the classrooms as well as hardware as we use A.V Aids, Computer, CDs, multimedia to measure impacts of teaching methods and evaluation of the students via these kind of technologies. Information and communication technologies have even also strengthened the importance of educational technology in educational institutions from primary schools up to universities. It has minimized distances in terms of time, place and circumstances.

Keywords: Educational Technology, Distance Education, Globalization, ICTs, Electronic Media and Teacher Training.

Pages: 757-765

      Akhtar Hussain Sandhu, Amna Mahmood
A survey of the muslim-sikh relations in the colonial Punjab

Abstract: The Sikh political attitudes were framed both by the memories of persecution under the Mughal rule and the martyrdom of their Gurus and by the fact that they had ruled over the Punjab under the leadership of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. It was from the Sikhs that the British had finally won control of the Punjab in 1849. The Punjab politics focuses on the political activities mainly of the Shiromani Akali Dal and the All-India Muslim League in the key prepartition decade in the Punjab.

Keywords: Muslim-Sikh relationship, colonial Punjab, historical resources.

Pages: 766-771

      Sophia Polyankina
The technology of individual polylingual culture improvement by means of internet communication

Abstract: The goal of the article is to consider the formation and development of individual polylingual culture in the process of English language study by means of Internet communication using the options of social networking service. The suggested methodology takes into consideration the contemporary sociocultural situation and the project of new Federal State Educational Standards, and is aimed at the preparation of student’s language personality for effective intercultural communication in the contemporary polycultural world.

Keywords: polycultural education, personal self-determination in culture, polylingual culture, language personality, Internet communication, cultural approach to education, social networking service, Facebook.

Pages: 772-774

      Asad Abbas Rizvi, Muhammad Bilal, Abdul Ghaffar, Masood Asdaque
Application of six thinking hats in education

Abstract: It is now a common thing to apply the rules of business in education. Six thinking hats is basically a concept to solve problems creatively. It can be applied in education also to minimize day to day concerns of teachers like classroom management, leadership, cheating etc. it discourages the egocentric thinking and allow problem solver to think in a different and systematic way. This concept paper discusses the ways to solve educational problems by applying this technique.

Keywords: Six thinking hats, education, egocentric thinking

Pages: 775-779

      Ata Atun
Solution: how close to Cyprus

Abstract: The reunification of the island of Cyprus is now in a more promising stage. It seems that the majority of the Greek Cypriots thought the second round may open up a possibility for a new initiative to reunify the island and this could be read as a positive development in the Greek Cypriot side. It is quite obvious that if the incumbent Greek Cypriot leader Tassos Papadopoulos was re-elected, there would no real change in the current situation and the future of the island still would be foggy.

Keywords: Cyprus, Greek Cypriot, historical facts, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

Pages: 780-784

      Ata Atun
Saint Catherina, the Cypriot saint, who was lost in the depths of the history

Abstract: Although Apostle Andreas was born in Cyprus only a few of the Saints of the Christian faith was born in the island of Cyprus. The most legendary and eminent one is Saint Catherina, who is the beloved Saint of most of the Orthodox Christians living in Cyprus, Greece, Bulgaria, Romania, Ukraine, Russia, Syria and Lebanon. Saint Catherina is still the most celebrated Saint of the young girls and women of these countries and the popular one among the other Saints. Most of them have her picture displayed in their room or carry it in a holy pendant.

Keywords: Saint Catherina, Saint, Cyprus, history

Pages: 785-789

      Ata Atun
Initiatives to colonise Cyprus with jews in the 20th century

Abstract: For hundreds of years the Jewish community has been blamed for the crucifixion of Jesus and because of this has been dispised and ostracised by the Christian world. The two most explicit examples of this can be seen in the fact that the Jews were exiled from Spain about 500 years ago and the fact that they were subjected to genocide during the 2^nd World War.

Keywords: Cyprus, Jews, Jewish colony on Cyprus, history

Pages: 790-794

      Azizeh Khanchobani Ahranjani, Rajab Tohidian
Ezafe construction in complex noun phrases in Persian medieval poems

Abstract: Complex noun phrases in Persian language are formed in different ways and structures. They can be in ezafe, non-ezafe or compound (ezafe+non-ezafe) constructions. In ezafe construction they have different structures consisting two or more constituents. As Hafez, Baba Faghani and Jami, the Persian poets of medieval ages, are the most famous ones in Persian and their texts are the greatest in their own, samples of this study have been choosen from their poems. In Persian literature and linguistics the mentioned poets’ poems have been outstanding all the time. This study analyses the Persian complex noun phrases in ezafe construction to show their syntactical structures.

Keywords: Persian language- ezafe construction- complex noun phrases- medieval poems

Pages: 805-812