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1 – 10 of 13Mohamed Ali Feki, Mounir Mokhtari and Ismail Khalil Ibrahim
In this paper, we describe a novel approach for ontology distribution in ubiquitous environments. We present the Context Aware Explorer (CAE) framework we have developed which…
Abstract
In this paper, we describe a novel approach for ontology distribution in ubiquitous environments. We present the Context Aware Explorer (CAE) framework we have developed which allows building context aware applications. Our approach, while built upon Web Ontology Language OWL and RDF Schema, is aiming at modeling context ontology for supporting context reasoning and the design of a Smart Rule Engine that maintains a shared model of context for all computing entities in the smart space. The CAE main contribution is its ability to distribute ontology based on abstract parameters related to situation and to user profile. The ultimate goal is to decrease the response time of the reasoning engine with regards to reasoning accuracy. We also describe the implementation of CAE, and its associated ontology, in a prototype demonstrator of smart environment handling indoor and outdoor context aware services. The validation of the ontology distribution approach was applied to assistive environment dedicated to people having motor disabilities and tested within laboratory conditions. Preliminary performance results are presented to highlight the impact of distributed ontology concept.
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Bataa Sayed Mohamed Mazen, Badawi Mohamed Ismail, Rushdya Rabee Ali Hassan, Mahmoud Ali and Wael S. Mohamed
The purpose of this study is to detect the effect of some natural cellulosic polymers in their nano forms with the addition of zinc oxide nanoparticles on restoring the lost…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to detect the effect of some natural cellulosic polymers in their nano forms with the addition of zinc oxide nanoparticles on restoring the lost mechanical strength of degraded papyrus without any harmful effects on the inks.
Design/methodology/approach
In the current study, the USB digital microscopy, scanning electron microscope, measurement of mechanical properties (tensile and elongation), pH measurement, color change and infrared spectroscopy were undertaken for the samples before and after treatment and aging.
Findings
In the current study, the USB digital microscopy, scanning electron microscope, measurement of mechanical properties (tensile and elongation), pH measurement, color change and infrared spectroscopy were undertaken for the samples before and after treatment and aging.
Originality/value
The effect of strengthening materials was studied on cellulose and carbon ink, which makes this study closer to reality as the manuscript is the consistent structure of cellulose and inks, whereas most of the literature stated the impact of consolidation materials on the strengthening the cellulosic supports without attention to their impact on inks.
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The incorporation of digital technologies into higher education in recent years has transformed the teaching and learning landscape, notably in the field of English language…
Abstract
The incorporation of digital technologies into higher education in recent years has transformed the teaching and learning landscape, notably in the field of English language instruction. This study investigates the best practices and challenges linked with the digital transition in higher education English teaching and learning. The digital revolution has enabled new educational approaches, increasing the accessibility and effectiveness of English language instruction. The use of interactive multimedia tools, online platforms, and adaptive learning systems has personalized education, responding to a wide range of student demands and encouraging active engagement. Furthermore, virtual classrooms, video conferencing, and collaborative online spaces have crossed geographical boundaries, encouraging global collaboration and cultural interaction among students. However, this shift has not been without its difficulties. Disparities in access among students based on socioeconomic status or geographic location have expanded the digital divide. Furthermore, due to the rapid growth of technology, educators must get ongoing training in order to effectively apply and adapt to new technologies, providing a difficulty in faculty development and support. This chapter investigates successful and best practices in digital transformation, highlighting the significance of pedagogical alignment, learner-centered approaches, and inclusive practices. It also emphasizes measures for overcoming problems, such as infrastructure investment, equitable access, digital literacy promotion, and continual professional development for educators. Finally, this chapter emphasizes the importance of matching technical innovation with pedagogical objectives in order to optimize the digital transition in English language education. Taking a proactive and inclusive approach to this shift can open up new pathways for effective teaching and learning experiences, preparing higher education students for a rapidly expanding digital world while tackling the associated issues.
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Mouna Feki, Hédia Hannachi, Moez Bou Ali, Haytem Hamrouni, Elvira Romano, Boubaker Karray and Mohamed Hammami
The purpose of this paper is to build a class model to confirm the authenticity of olives from Bi'r al Malluli, Tunisian region, in order to obtain the Designation of Origin (DO).
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to build a class model to confirm the authenticity of olives from Bi'r al Malluli, Tunisian region, in order to obtain the Designation of Origin (DO).
Design/methodology/approach
In total, ten orchards of Chemlali olive oil variety were chosen, in Sfax region, characterized by the same applied cultural techniques. Pomological characters of olives, fatty acids composition and organoleptic analysis of olive oil were conducted.
Findings
Results showed that the pomological characters were specific of the Chemlali variety: the olive weight ranged from 0.9 to 1.10 g in all studied orchards and the water content (WC) ranged from 41.45 to 57.68 per cent. All analysed oils showed good fatty acids balance. Chemlali olive oil contains high amounts of oleic acid and a smaller amount of linoleic acid. The oleic acid content ranged from 57.96 to 63.52 per cent according to the orchards. All oils having oleic acid higher than 55 per cent are categorized as extra virgin olive oil based on International Olive Oil Council (IOOC) Norma. Based on the organoleptic analysis, all the analysed oils were classified as an extra virgin olive oil. The principal component analysis applied separately on olive characters and fatty acids contents do not indicate any group's structure.
Originality/value
An objective approach based on pomologic, sensory and acidic composition analyses would be used to delimitate Protected Designation of Origin (PDOs) in olive oil from the Bi'r al Malluli area and better protect their markets.
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Eman Salim, Wael S. Mohamed and Rasha Sadek
Paper aims to evaluate the efficiency of traditional chitosan, nano chitosan, and chitosan nanocomposites for consolidating aged papyrus samples. Cellulose-based materials, such…
Abstract
Purpose
Paper aims to evaluate the efficiency of traditional chitosan, nano chitosan, and chitosan nanocomposites for consolidating aged papyrus samples. Cellulose-based materials, such as papyrus sheets and paper, which are the most common types of writing supports for works of art in many museums and archive. They are subjected to different types of deterioration factors that may lead to many conservation problems. Consolidation treatment is one of the most common conservation treatments, which should have perform after much testing to select the appropriate consolidants.
Design/methodology/approach
This research paper aims to evaluate the resistance of traditional chitosan, nanochitosan and chitosan/zinc oxide nanocomposite as an eco-friendly papyrus strengthening. Untreated and treated papyrus was thermally aged and characterized via scanning electron microscope (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Antimicrobial activity of the papyrus specimens was also determined against four tested pathogenic bacteria by disc diffusion method: MRSA, Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli and P. aeruginosa.
Findings
The results revealed that chitosan nanocomposite showed a remarkable enhancement of papyrus tensile properties and presence of ZnO prevents the effects of biodeterioration.
Originality/value
Zinc oxide nanoparticles enhance the optical properties and increase the chemical reactions between the consolidating material and the treated papyrus.
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Abdul Rehman, Muhammad Irfan, Sehresh Hena and Abbas Ali Chandio
The purpose of this paper is to explore and investigate the electricity consumption and production and its linkage to economic growth in Pakistan.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore and investigate the electricity consumption and production and its linkage to economic growth in Pakistan.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors used an augmented Dickey–Fuller unit root test to check the stationarity of the variables, while an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bounds testing approach and causality test were applied to investigate the variables long-term association with the economic growth.
Findings
The study results show that electricity consumption in the agriculture, commercial and industrial sector has significant association with economic growth, while electricity consumption in the household and street lights demonstrate a non-significant association with the economic growth. Furthermore, results also exposed that electricity production from coal, hydroelectric, natural gas, nuclear and oil sources have significant association with the economic growth of Pakistan.
Originality/value
This study made a contribution to the literature regarding electricity consumption and production with economic growth in Pakistan by using an ARDL bounds testing approach and causality test. This study provides a guideline to the government of Pakistan that possible steps are needed to improve the electricity production and supply to fulfill the country demand.
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Hend M. Naguib and Mohamed H. Elsharnouby
Digital transformation (DT) has created a number of significant opportunities and related alterations in consumers' behaviours. However, consumers differ in adopting DT. There is…
Abstract
Purpose
Digital transformation (DT) has created a number of significant opportunities and related alterations in consumers' behaviours. However, consumers differ in adopting DT. There is still a need to investigate consumer's capabilities and his/her perception of other customers that supports or hinders the DT process. This study aims to investigate human thinking capabilities (critical thinking, holistic thinking and creative thinking) as drivers of two specific types of outcomes: DT barriers and/or DT nurture. In addition, this research also examines the linkage between human capabilities (three types of thinking) and other customers' perception. Finally, it postulates that other customers' perception drives DT barriers and/or DT nurture.
Design/methodology/approach
Applying to the public, private and international banking sectors, 273 questionnaires were collected. The collected data was analysed using AMOS as well as the PROCESS macro.
Findings
The results showed that human thinking capabilities have different effects on DT barriers and nurture. While critical thinking has a significant effect on DT barriers, both holistic thinking and creative thinking have a significant effect on DT nurture. Other customers' perception construct has a significant effect on both DT barriers and nurture. In addition, only holistic thinking has an effect on other customers' perception.
Originality/value
This study advances knowledge in three ways. Firstly, it examined DT barriers and nurture as variables from the customer's perspective. Secondly, it examined each human thinking capability on DT barriers and nurture, giving more insights. Thirdly, it studied human thinking capabilities as one of the main factors that might affect other customers' perception and DT barriers and nurture, while most previous studies focused only on other customers' perception's impact on DT barriers and nurture.
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