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Listing 42 - 20 of 2806 results.

The Potential of Vernacular Materials to the Sustainable Building Design: Experience of Construction Design with Adobe Material

Research Article
Author(s): Zafer Kuyrukcu, Emine Yıldız Kuyrukcu
Journal: International Journal of Natural Sciences Research

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Abstract
In order to achieve sustainable architecture, cultural and sustainable design principles should be considered in a complementary relationship. Sustainable design implies the recycling of energy, either by the use of passive energy or renewable energy. It also requires harmony with local economies and data supporting biological diversity. Adobe traditional building material which is a cheap, environmentally friendly and abundant and has been used extensively for construction around the world. For this purpose, this study promotes the use of adobe as a sustainable material. Also this study is aimed to evaluate the progress in designing skills of students by using adobe as a sustainable material in architectural design education with a studio sample. The architectural design practice and use of adobe were evaluated with all positive and negative aspects within the context of students projects. These studies provide an excellent contribution for the recognition of the advantages of adobe as a building material, encouraging its use in new architecture and architectural education. 
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the use of adobe as a sustainable material in architectural education. 
Engineering » International Journal of Natural Sciences Research » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 3

Application of Value Chain Analysis in the Sustainable Management of Tertiary Distance Education Programmes in Nigeria

Research Article
Author(s): Nwizu, Stella Chioma
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability

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Abstract
In a highly competitive environment, Distance Education Institutions are expected to develop business strategies and frameworks for sustainability. One of such viable strategies is the value chain analysis. The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which distance education institutions in Nigeria apply the process of value chain analysis in the sustainable management of their programmes. Three research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted the descriptive survey research design. Distance Education Value Chain Process Instrument (DEVACPI) which was face validated by experts in distance education, measurement and evaluation and management studies was used for the study. A reliability coefficient of 0.87 was estimated for the instrument using the Cronbach alpha method. The instrument was used to elicit information from 168 management staff proportionately sampled from the two major distance education institutions in Nigeria. Weighted mean and the t-test inferential statistic were used to analyze the research questions and null hypotheses respectively. The results from the study show that distance education institutions apply the activity analysis to a little extent. However, they claim that value analysis and expected changes were applied to a great extent. Furthermore, there was no significant difference in the mean ratings of the management staff in the two distance education institutions on the extent to which they apply the activity analysis and the value analysis in the sustainable management of distance education institutions in Nigeria.  The management staff reported that they are not sufficiently knowledgeable in the value chain analysis. The researcher therefore recommended that formal training on value chain analysis be organized for distance education managers in Nigeria by the Ministry of Education.  
Contribution/ Originality
The paper’s primary contribution is finding that distance education management staff in Nigeria are not sufficiently grounded in the application of value chain analysis for the sustainable management of distance education programmes. It contributes significantly to the existing literature on the application of value chain analysis in distance education management.
Business & Management » International Journal of Management and Sustainability » Month: 05-2015 Issue: 5

Does Organizational Learning Matter?

Research Article
Author(s): Gholamreza Zandi, Mohamed Sulaiman
Journal: International Journal of Management and Sustainability

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Abstract
The aim of this research is to empirically test the relationship between organizational learning and performance in SMEs in the ICT industry in Malaysia. According to the literature, organizational learning and innovation are crucial factors in organizational performance but the focus of this study is to determine whether organizational learning lead to better organizational performance. This study was conducted in a sample of 278 SMEs in Malaysia. The hypotheses in this study were developed to examine the relationship between organizational learning (OL) and organizational performance (OP). To conduct the analysis we made use of Analysis of Moment Structure (AMOS) and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The obtained results support the hypotheses implying a positive relationship between OL and OP. Several implications for management and policy are also discussed in light of the findings of this study.
Contribution/ Originality
Due to the growing interest in OL as an effective strategy for organizational performance (OP), the present research is one of very few studies which have investigated the relationships between OL and OP in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysian context where SMEs play an integral role in the overall well-being of the country’s economy. 
Business & Management » International Journal of Management and Sustainability » Month: 05-2015 Issue: 5

The Role of Strategic Planning on the Management of Organizational Change

Research Article
Author(s): Evangelia Fragouli, Joana Kwaw Yankson
Journal: Financial Risk and Management Reviews

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Abstract
Strategic planning is very crucial in a successful change management. This is because a successful change management is a catalyst to the survival of any organisation in the face of continuously competitive business environment. However, the introduction of these changes, tends to be problematic and part of a puzzle. The present study seeks to illustrate the importance of strategic planning as a fundamental tool in a successful management of change in overcoming the complexities that accompany change. It is a literature review based study which concludes that the focus on change implementation in change processes alone is not enough to provide robust results of change goals. Consequently, organisations which adopt strategic planning as a fundamental tool at the early stages of their change processes tend to gain an advantage of achieving change goals.
Contribution/ Originality
The present study reviews issues of types and drivers of organizational change, resistance to change and reasons of failure of if, change management models and management of organizational change, focusing on the importance of strategic planning in change management processes concluding that strategic planning is a fundamental tool of change success.
Economics » Financial Risk and Management Reviews » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 2

A Study on the Reporting of Indian Muslim Women’s Problems in the Mainstream Media

Research Article
Author(s): P.Sri Jothi, M. Neelamalar
Journal: Journal of New Media and Mass Communication

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Abstract
Today, literally hundreds of magazines, journals, newspapers, television channels, FM radio channels and new media deliver various kinds of information, about current affairs and events all around the world. These deal not simply with religion, but with social and political issues as well. These mass media publications have played a crucial role in promoting social and political awareness in the society and in getting people’s views and concerns across to the community, and to the state authorities, and in promoting closer interaction between nations.  Apart from various social issues in the society, less importance is given to the news about women’s community. The challenge before the media is to move beyond clubbing what happens to women, with routine crime briefs, on the one hand, and sensational stories, on the other. And different women’s issues related to women and religion are not given much consequence; generally violence against women and sexual crimes are exaggerated to make interesting stories to attract commercially. Muslims in India are provided a separate civil code, and the Indian Constitution as well as administration recognizes the importance  that should be  given to the religion termed ‘minority’. Still, the feeling among Indian women in general and Muslim women in particular is that in matters such as multi-marriages allowed to Muslim men (it is illegal if the Hindu men do the same), the irregularities in the ‘divorce’ formalities and the injustice committed towards Muslim women by their husbands and families are not given proper consideration by the Indian mainstream media. Therefore, two renowned Indian newspapers ‘The Hindu and ‘The Times of India’ are taken and contextually analyzed regarding mass media reporting of Indian Muslim Women’s Issues.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the reporting of Muslim women’s problems in the Indian mainstream media. The study aims to turn the attention of the Indian media towards the lesser representation given to the Muslim women in the mainstream media.
Social Sciences » Journal of New Media and Mass Communication » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 2

Accelerated Oxidation Test of Freeze-Dried Pseudomonas Fluorescens BTP1, BB2 and PI9 Strains

Research Article
Author(s): Mputu Kanyinda Jean-Noel, Karl Tshimenga, Noki Philippe
Journal: The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology

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Abstract
Pseudomonas fluorescens strains are very susceptible to damage during freeze-drying and storage. It would be useful to have longer lasting viable powders. Membrane oxidation is one of the factors responsible for damages suffered by P. fluorescens strains during storage. Singlet oxygen (1O2) is a highly reactive form of molecular oxygen that may harm living systems by oxidizing critical cellular macromolecules. We exposed freeze-dried powders of three strains P. fluorescens (BB2, BTP1 and PI9) to singlet oxygen produced by photosensitisation of Methylene Blue/ light during 2 hours. We observe a significant loss in survival rate, a pronounced oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, protein oxidation (carbonyl groups) and protein insolubilisation. This study enables better predictions of types of packaging suitable for freeze-dried powders of P. fluorescens.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated on Pseudomonas fluorescens strains.  This study has objectives to develop a method for to stabilise and storage freeze-dried bacteria gram negative which is very sensitive to all form of drying.
Biological Sciences » The Asia Journal of Applied Microbiology » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 2

Compliance Behaviour in State-Run Fisheries: Situating Lake Chivero in a Policy Perspective

Research Article
Author(s): Tom Tom, Emmanuel Munemo
Journal: International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research

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Abstract
Parks and wildlife facilities are intended to contribute people’s wellbeing socially and economically. This aim puts parks and wildlife management in policy. Appropriate management of parks and wildlife for wider social wellbeing is essential. This paper brings out the issues in compliance behaviour of fishers in Zimbabwe’s state-run lakes. The underlying aim of the study is to create policy options that sustain both the fish resources and the wellbeing of the fishers. Zimbabwe’s Parks and Wild Life Management Authority (ZPWMA) administers all state-run lakes in Zimbabwe in order to prevent their over-exploitation. Despite its strict management regulations, the following rather disturbing developments continue to be observed:a) An increase in disregard for the regulations among licensed fishers and an influx of unregistered fishers (poachers).b) A growing incapacity on the part of ZPWMA to contain the worsening non-compliance with management regulations among fishers.c) An increase in the number of illegal fishers entering the fishery. d) An increase in the amount of fish being sold illegally on open markets in Harare and neighbouring towns.The growing non-compliance with regulations could be a result of many factors. Firstly, the worsening economic problems, the rising unemployment as well as the ever-spiralling prices of beef mean that some people are finding fish to be the next cheaper substitute. Secondly, the rather narrow and state centrist approach to fisheries management little considers the practical concerns of fishers giving them no incentive to comply with the regulations. Thirdly, because of the above, the regulations are low in legitimacy, making them less self-enforcing and costly to enforce. At a policy level, the study attempts to find ways of making the existing fisheries management structures, policies and practices at the fishery command more respect and acceptance among fisheries, whilst creating a conducive environment for the fishers to enhance their wellbeing through fishing. The following main recommendations were made:a) Greater attention be paid to the legitimacy aspects of the regulatory institutions as well as the regulations;b) The interests of and concerns of the fishers be more fully incorporated into the management regulations to enhance their acceptance by fishers; and c) The job conditions of ZPWMA employees should be improved to curb corruption and to improve how they interact with fishers.
Contribution/ Originality
This article is a result of a unique study on compliance behaviour of fishers at Lake Chivero in Zimbabwe as a policy issue.  The study contributes to the limited empirical knowledge and literature on creating policy options that sustain both the fish resources and the wellbeing of the fishers in state-run fisheries.
Economics » International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 2

Republic of Zimbabwe National Water Policy: A Desk Review of the Gaps between the Policy and Its Implementation

Research Article
Author(s): Tom Tom, Emmanuel Munemo
Journal: International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research

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Abstract
The researchers set out to identify the gaps between the Republic of Zimbabwe National Water Policy and its implementation. A qualitatively-oriented desk review provided the step-by-step process of identifying and analysing the gaps. The desk review was informed by the observation that no scholar has engaged the Water Policy and the performance of the water sector in terms of gaps between policy and implementation. The existing literature focuses on, and is influenced by quantitative and linear analyses. A lacuna therefore exists in Zimbabwean literature on qualitative policy analysis. The desk review was aimed at creating a platform for conducting a qualitative empirical study on the policy and its performance in urban areas. The desk review produced three major findings. Firstly, that the aim, objectives and principles of the policy are stated in qualitative terms. Secondly, that the gaps between the policy and its implementation are largely qualitative. Thirdly, that the available analyses of the water sector have been influenced solely by technical and linear models. Accordingly, two main recommendations are proffered. Solid empirical qualitative analyses of the gaps between the policy and implementation should be done against the provisions of the policy. Interactive models of policy analyses should be used as substitutes to, or in conjunction with linear models. The aim of such studies should be to attain the overall goal of social policy, that is, creating and sustaining wellbeing. 
Contribution/ Originality
This is an original and unique article on the qualitative gaps between Zimbabwe’s National Water Policy and its implementation as social policy issues.  The study contributes to the limited empirical knowledge and literature on effective policy implementation.
Economics » International Journal of Public Policy and Administration Research » Month: 09-2015 Issue: 3

Quality Management of Olympic, Non-Olympic and Paralympic Sport Federations

Research Article
Author(s): Belia Mendez Rial, Jose Maria Cancela Carral
Journal: Journal of Sports Research

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Abstract
Total Quality Management (TQM) is a strategic process of continuous improvement targeting success in sport with numerous additional benefits. Its application commenced in business, next in public administration and then in the third sector. Some researchers studied clubs but fewer researchers have studied federations. Consequently, the purpose of this article is to measure the TQM of a group of Galician Sport Federations. We used an adaptation of European Foundation of Quality Management (EFQM) questionnaire issued to Federations before this study. The sample was 50 of 59 entities (86.21%) divided in: 26 Olympic Federations (52%), 21 non-Olympic Federations (42%) and 3 Paralympic Federations (6%). The results of the questionnaire gave information about the TQM of the entity and which particular dimensions were managed poorly, regularly, well or very well. Whether they are Olympic, Paralympic or Non-Olympic, results show that all these Federations achieved a “good” score in Total Quality Management, with “very good” indications in dimensions such as Policy, Strategy and Process Management. The Olympic Federations returned “regular” results in the “People” category. Paralympic Federations generated “regular” scores in Leadership, Human Resources, Society Results and Process Results. Similar returns have been found in other studies. Knowledge of the overall TQM scores and the dimensions provides information regarding areas that require to be maintained, changed or developed. Based on the results of the questionnaire, practical beneficial recommendations could subsequently be readily and usefully implemented. We suggest that further researches could help to construct a TQM system for these organisations. Availability of such information would support and facilitate good management of these entities, thereby enabling improved management in all respects: effectiveness, efficiency, efficacy and economy.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated applying Quality in Sport Management Federations. It gives a questionnaire to evaluate the TQM of this type of entities, the description of the TQM of them and several useful ideas to further researches.
Physical Sciences » Journal of Sports Research » Month: 12-2015 Issue: 4

Chemical Analysis of Acacia Ehrenbergiana (Salam) Tree Fruits (Seed and Pods) As Dry Season Supplement For Livestock in Arid and Semi –Arid Lands of Sudan

Research Article
Author(s): Mohamed S .A Abdalla, Izeldin A. Babiker, Kamal F. Elkalifa
Journal: Animal Review

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Abstract
In developing countries farming and livestock keeping are the most dominant activities for the indigenous people, proper farming maintain good and adequate grazing for livestock and hence support livelihood in such countries. Therefore, local inhabitants largely depend on some tree species suitable for grazing purposes.  In the present study, the nutritional value for fruits of Acacia ehrenbergiana (Salam) (seeds and pods) at the lower Atbra river basin in north eastern part of Sudan was investigated. Field samples of fruits were collected, each sample kept separately in a small cloth kit. Chemical analysis of fruit samples was conducted to quantify the content of various nutritional attributes including: the crude protein, crude fibers, fats, starch, ash, and moisture content. In addition to some minerals namely P, Ca, Mg, Na, Cur and Fe. Chemical analysis revealed that CP is found to be as high as 30.99%, CF reached 25.11%, the starch content 12.12%, fat 4.1%, and ash content 11.81% .These values showed the high nutritional values fruits. Similarly mineral contents demonstrate good amounts of Na and Ca that needed by livestock for adequate growth, but lower amounts of P that should be supplemented to the diets. Most tested browse fruits revealed adequate nutritional values of Acacia ehrenbergiana (Salam) fruits as a protein or dry season supplement. Fodder trees still need to be fully evaluated in order to reduce the cost of feed . This can be done by being used as a feed supplement to livestock .Increasing the base for feed options (forages) with high quality feed will support the ever increasing demand for livestock products ,as feed is the most important factor influencing  livestock production in the harsh environment of the dry lands.
Contribution/ Originality


Agricultural Sciences » Animal Review » Month: 09-2015 Issue: 3

Effects of Ebola (EVD) Outbreak on Bush Meat Marketing and Consumption in Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria

Research Article
Author(s): Oyediran, W. O., Omoare, A. M., Esenwa, A. O., Omisore, O. A., Dick T. T.
Journal: Current Research in Agricultural Sciences

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Abstract
Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak was a major threat to public health in Nigeria and it adversely affected the people’s perception on bush meat as it was revealed that wild animals were host of the virus.  Thus, the study assessed the effects of EVD outbreak on bush meat marketing and consumption in Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. Multi stage sampling technique was used to select 85 respondents. Data collected with interview guide and analysed using with descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis. The results showed that 58.80% of the respondents were between 40 – 50 years of age and 73% of the respondents were females. Majority (64.70%) of the respondents had been in bush meat business for more than 10 years. Before the EVD outbreak 37.14% of the respondents had more than 50 customers while patronage reduced to less than 25 customers in a day after EVD outbreak. Similarly, 42% of respondents had more than ₦21,000.00 in a day before EVD outbreak as against less than ₦5,000.00 in a day after the outbreak. Chi-square analysis showed a significant relationship between the sources of information on EVD outbreak and bush meat sales at p < 0.05. It can be concluded that EVD caused reduction in the customers’ patronage and income realized from the sales of bush meat after the outbreak. It is hereby recommended that more awareness should be created by government and other stakeholders that Nigeria is free of EVD, and bush meat is safe for public consumption while Agricultural Extension Agents and Community Health Workers should focus on training and capacity building for quality and healthy bush meat business in the study area
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the setback caused by the spread of the news of Ebola virus disease outbreak on bush meat sales and consumption in rural communities where cases of Ebola disease virus were not actually reported.
Agricultural Sciences » Current Research in Agricultural Sciences » Month: 09-2015 Issue: 3

Challenges of Writing Dissertations: Perceptual Differences between Students and Supervisors in a Ghanaian Polytechnic

Research Article
Author(s): Edem Maxwell Azila-Gbettor, Christopher Mensah, Simon Mesa Kwodjo Avorgah
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice

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Abstract
This study explored the perceptions of students and supervisors on the interplay of institutional-student-supervisor related factors that militate against the writing and completion of quality dissertations in Ghanaian Polytechnics. Based on 491 usable self-questionnaires retrieved from final year students and supervisors, descriptive results indicate both students and supervisors unanimously agreed that students experience considerable challenge accessing scholarly journals, textbooks, internet and literature, inadequate funding and irregular and delayed feedback from supervisors when writing their dissertations. Furthermore, the Mann-Whitney U-test results revealed that both students and supervisors exhibited self-serving attribution bias in their perception of the challenges of writing and completing dissertation concerning student and supervisor related factors. Improvement in students’ access to scholarly literature and supervisors being more accessible and providing quick feedback to students are recommended. 
Contribution/ Originality
The paper adds to existing literature by examining the differences in opinion between students and supervisors regarding challenges in dissertation writing among undergraduate students by  applying the self-serving bias  and better- than- average models.
Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4

Drug Use and Anti-Social Behaviour as Correlates of Secondary School Students’ Achievement in Biology in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State

Research Article
Author(s): Aminu L. Sharehu, Emmanuel E. Achor, Comfort Onah
Journal: International Journal of Education and Practice

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Abstract
This study investigated drug use and anti-social behaviour as correlates of secondary school students’ achievement in Biology in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State. The study adopted the ex-post facto method and a sample size of 375 Senior Secondary two (SS II) students was drawn. Students Drug Use Questionnaire (SDUQ), Anti-social Behaviour Influence Questionnaire (ABIQ) and Students Performance Test (SPT) were used for data collection.  The data collected were analyzed using Pearson Product Moment correlation method to answer the research questions. Also, t-test statistical tool was used to test the six null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance.  The study found that involvements in anti-social behaviour by secondary school students have significant relationship with their achievement in Biology; there was a significant relationship between academic achievement and anti-social behaviour of male students; male students academic achievement and  drug abuse had no significant relationship; there was significant relationship between academic achievement and anti-social behaviour of female secondary students but there was significant relationship between academic achievement and drug abuse among female secondary Biology students. Based on these findings, the study concluded that indiscriminate drug use and anti-social behaviour indulged in by both male and female students are strong indices of academic achievement by students. Consequently, for a student to be outstanding in his or her achievement there is every need to shun indiscriminate drug use and indulgence in anti-social behaviours. The study recommended among others that both secondary school male and female students should desist from anti-social behaviours or social vices that are detrimental to their academic performance, among others.
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated drug use and anti-social behaviour as correlates of students’ achievement in biology. Further, the paper’s primary contribution is in finding that male students’ achievement and drug abuse had no significant relationship but a significant relationship exists among female students.
Arts and Education » International Journal of Education and Practice » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4

Microbiostratigraphy and Lithostratigraphy of the Upper Permian Dalan Formation in Kuh-E-Surmeh (Zagros Basin, Southwest Iran)

Research Article
Author(s): Pedram Rafiee, Dariush Baghbani, Ali Aghanabati, Mehran Arian
Journal: International Journal of Geography and Geology

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Abstract
The objective of the present study is to perform Microbiostratigraphy and Lithostratigraphy of the Upper Permian Dalan Formation in Kuh-e-Surmeh (Zagros Basin). The Upper Permian Dalan Formation contains vast gas reservoirs in the southwest Iran and is composed of three Members: The Lower Dalan Member is Wordian to Capitanian in age; the Nar Member is latest Capitanian and the Upper Dalan Member corresponds to Wuchiapingian to Changhsingian. Lower and Upper Dalan Members include mainly limestone, dolomite and Nar member mostly consist of anhydrite and thin interlayer of dolomite toward the base. The biostratigraphic study allows individualizing Foraminifers from the Roadian to the Changhsingian (Middle to Late Permian). Based on the stratigraphic distributions of the Biostratigraphically significant fauna and flora the following 5 biozones and age determinations are proposed in the Upper Permian Dalan Formation: 1. Paraglobivalvulinoides septulifera zone (Changhsingian)2. Paradagmarita zone (Changhsingian)3. Shanita zone (Middle - Late Capitanian)4. Schwagerina zone (Wordian - Middle Capitanian)5. Neoendothyra zone (Roadian)
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the Permian sequences of different layers in Kuh-e-Surmeh (Zagros Basin). The results of this study will help to make Paleogeographic maps, interpretation of Permian Basin, Recognition of lithology specificities and Separation and definition of the Permian sequence.
Energy & Environmental Sciences » International Journal of Geography and Geology » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4

Estimating Value at Risk for Sukuk Market Using Generalized Auto Regressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity Models

Research Article
Author(s): Pantea Hafezian, Hussin Salamon, Mahendran Shitan
Journal: The Economics and Finance Letters

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Abstract
In this paper, we compare the forecasting ability of different GARCH models to estimate value at risk in sukuk market.  A wide extensive list of both symmetric and asymmetric GARCH models (including GARCH, EGARCH, GJR-GARCH, IGARCH and Asymmetric power GARCH) were considered in modeling  the volatility in the sukuk market. All VaR estimations are carried out by “rugarch” package in “R” software. The performance of these models is compared by both in-sample and out-of-sample analysis.  We found that the performance of asymmetric models in estimating value at risk are superior in both in-sample and out-of-sample evaluation. We also found that in most cases the student-t distribution is more preferable than normal or generalized error distribution (GED).
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the behavior of sukuk data in secondary market and describes characteristics of its statistical distribution function. Another contribution is comparing the estimation ability of various GARCH models in order to find superior model to estimate VAR in sukuk market.
Economics » The Economics and Finance Letters » Month: 02-2015 Issue: 2

Received Signal Strength in a Macrocell in Lagos Environs Using Finite Element Method

Research Article
Author(s): Shoewu, O., Makanjuola, N.T., Akinyemi, L.A., Ogunlewe, A.O.
Journal: Review of Computer Engineering Research

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Abstract
This paper presents an analysis of received signal strength in a macrocell in Lagos environment using Finite Element Method (FEM). In this paper, six different site locations were covered and subdivided into peri-urban, open suburban, dense urban, open urban, suburban and exurban areas. It was deduced that the experimental values obtained was favourably with the FEM predicted values with the mean prediction error ranging between 6.66dB to 12.89dB while that of standard deviation error is 2.99dB to 8.09dB.
Contribution/ Originality
This study reveals the determination of received signal strength from a source point within a macrocell by the use of finite element method. Simulation for the study was achieved using 2D Maxwell’s wave equation.  Adequate data was collected, analysed and the main idea was to collect data with the TEMS phone by driving in a vehicle and making a lot of calls in the metropolitan area considered. This effort makes it different from other forms of data collection methods used in previous studies.
Computer Sciences » Review of Computer Engineering Research » Month: 06-2015 Issue: 2

Empirical Study on the Relationship between Market Share, Advertising Density and Ratio of Sales

Research Article
Author(s): He Yucheng, Ding Wenna, Zhang Qian, Yang Guang, Li Fangqiang
Journal: Journal of Food Technology Research

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Abstract
The causal relationship between market share, advertising density and ratio of sales has been widely discussed in academic circles. This paper examined the extent of reaction and the reverse causal relationship between advertising, concentration, and performance. Secondary data on the enterprises’ operating income, total profits and advertising costs of the mid-range and high-end liquor enterprises, covering the period 2003-2011, were sourced from the financial statements. The simultaneous-equations model was employed to examine the mutual relationship of advertising, concentration and performance. The results of the simultaneous-equations model show that increased advertising density did not contribute to acquiring a higher market share for the mid-range and high-end liquor enterprises. We also found that a higher ratio of sales stimulated the enterprises to invest more in advertising costs; however, it did not promote the increase of market share.
Contribution/ Originality
This study uses new estimation methodology that is the simultaneous-equations model to examine the degree of interaction and reverse causality relationship between market share, advertising density and ratio of sales in liquor industry. It also explores the three variables’ operation mechanism, which is certainly innovative.
Agricultural Sciences » Journal of Food Technology Research » Month: 03-2015 Issue: 1

Synthesis, Growth and Characterization of Bis Thiourea Sodium Zinc Sulphate Single Crystals-A Semi Organic Nlo Material

Research Article
Author(s): K. Uma, R. Manimekalai, G. Pasupathi
Journal: International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research

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Abstract
The slow evaporation of the solvent technique is used to grow transparent nonlinear optical (NLO) single crystals of bis thiourea sodium zinc sulphate (BTSZS). The grown crystal is characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis to confirm the crystallization of the synthesized materials and to determine its unit cell parameters. The crystalline nature and   purity of the grown crystals are confirmed by powder X-ray diffraction pattern. The FT-IR and FT-Raman spectra are recorded to identify the functional groups present in  BTSZS crystals. The UV-VIS-NIR transmission spectrum of BTSZS crystals are recorded in the wavelength range 190 - 1100 nm to determine the lower cut-off wavelength, percentage of the transmittance and the optical constants such as bandgap, refractive index, extinction coefficient, reflectance etc., Fluorescence study confirms the green emission of BTSZS which indicates the grown crystal is well suited for NLO applications.  The thermo gravimetric analysis and differential thermal analyses are used to identify the melting point and the thermal stability of the grown crystals. The second harmonic generation efficiency is measured by Kurtz powder method and it is found to be 1.3 times that of potassium dihydrogen orthophosphates (KDP).
Contribution/ Originality
This study is one of very few studies which have investigated the synthesis, growth and characterization of Bis thiourea Sodium Zinc Sulphate, single crystals using slow evaporation technique. Thus grown crystals are having very good optical transmittance. Fluorescence study confirms the green emission and also that NLO property.
Chemistry & Materials Sciences » International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4

Synthesis Process of Stable Bafeo4 by Dry Method

Research Article
Author(s): Abdellatif EL MAGHRAOUI, Abdelaziz ZEROUALE, Mustapha IJJAALI
Journal: International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research

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Abstract
Ferrate (VI) alkalis are the best known and best studied. The importance of their study is due to their increasingly diverse and innovative applications. The aim of this work is to prepare stable at ambient BaFeO4, to study and optimize the key parameters influencing the performance of the oxidation of iron (III) into iron (VI) and to monitore its degradation over time in order  to minimize the cost and improve the production of ferrate (VI) for their interest in the water treatment.. the synthesis of the phase was carried out by dry processing, using the reaction Ba3 (Fe(OH)6)2, H2O, and Ba(OH)2 at a temperature of 850 ° C under flowing oxygen for a period of 12 hours with a ratio of Ba / Fe = 3. The result was characterized by UV spectrophotometer, measuring the optical density at the wavelength of 507 nm.
Contribution/ Originality


Chemistry & Materials Sciences » International Journal of Chemistry and Materials Research » Month: 04-2015 Issue: 4

Genotype X Environment Interaction and Stability Analysis for Yield and Yield Related Traits of Desi-Type Chickpea (Cicer Arietinum L.) In Ethiopia

Research Article
Author(s): Getachew Tilahun, Firew Mekbib, Asnake Fikre, Million Eshete
Journal: Current Research in Agricultural Sciences

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Abstract
Chickpea is the major pulses grown in Ethiopia, mainly by subsistence farmers usually under rain-fed conditions. However, its production is constrained due to genotype instability, environmental variability and interaction of genotype with environment. This research was carried out to examine the magnitude of environmental effect on yield of chickpea genotypes and to investigate the stability and adaptability of the genotypes under different agro-ecological conditions. 17 genotypes each of were evaluated in RCBD with four replications in five environments. Various stability indices were used to assess stability and genotype by environment performances. The combined ANOVA for yield and yield related traits revealed highly significant (P≤0.01) differences for genotypes, environments and their interaction. The significant interaction showed that the genotypes respond differently across the various environments. At Akaki, Chefe Donsa, Debre Zeit, Dembia and Haramaya the top performing genotype were DZ-2012-CK-0040 (2229 kg/ha), DZ-2012-CK-0027 (3966 kg/ha), DZ-2012-CK-0040 (4060 kg/ha), DZ-2012-CK-0032 (1394 kg/ha) and Natoli (3247 kg/ha) respectively. The first two PCs explained 84.3% of the variance of original variables for the genotypes. There were remarkable inconsistencies with the univariate stability parameters to select stable genotypes. However, multivariate approach, the AMMI model was better for partitioning the G x E into the causes of variation. Based on ASV value, DZ-2012-CK-0035 was most stable genotype. As per AMMI biplot, Minjar and local variety were the most widely adapted genotypes. Dembia and Haramaya are the most discriminative environments. Environments Debre Zeit and Chefe Donsa were the favorable environment. Genotypes, DZ-2012-CK-0040, DZ-2012-CK-0036 and DZ-2012-CK-0040, DZ-2012-CK-0032 and variety Natoli were recommended as specifically adapted to sites Akaki, Chefe Donsa, Debre Zeit, Dembia and Haramaya respectively. 
Contribution/ Originality


Agricultural Sciences » Current Research in Agricultural Sciences » Month: 09-2015 Issue: 3