International Journal of Computers

 
E-ISSN: 1998-4308
Volume 15, 2021

Notice: As of 2014 and for the forthcoming years, the publication frequency/periodicity of NAUN Journals is adapted to the 'continuously updated' model. What this means is that instead of being separated into issues, new papers will be added on a continuous basis, allowing a more regular flow and shorter publication times. The papers will appear in reverse order, therefore the most recent one will be on top.

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Volume 15, 2021


Title of the Paper: A New Family of Algorithms Searching Optimal Solutions to Discrete Optimization Problems

 

Authors:  Vitaly O. Groppen

Pages: 156-160

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.23     XML

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Abstract: A new family of algorithms searching globally optimal solutions to discrete programming problems is proposed. It is proved that the effectiveness of this method depends only on the number of variables of the problem being solved. The main difference from the methods of implicit enumeration is in the ability to a priori predict, solving by the one of proposed methods any extreme problem with Boolean variables, the number of iterations, the running time, and the amount of RAM used. The results of experimental verification of the effectiveness of various versions of modular enumeration procedures and, on their basis, recommendations for the use of these algorithms are given.


Title of the Paper: Bayesian Updating in Property Protection System

 

Authors:  Katarína Kampová, Tomáš Loveček

Pages: 151-155

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.22     XML

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Abstract: The article focuses on the implementation of the Bayesian updating method in creating a model of the protection system. This implementation makes it possible to incorporate the new information obtained during the lifetime of the protection system. The inclusion of new information ultimately makes it possible to refine the results of the model and thus increase its effectiveness to support decision-making. The approach of using the Bayesian updating method is given in a specific example. The possibility of expert estimation of input parameter values and application of Bayesian updating for the purposes of quantitative revision of security level assessment is also presented.


Title of the Paper: Universal Decision Support System for Selection of MSW Route Optimization Method

 

Authors:  Ahmed Omar, Uneb Gazder, Khalil Aljuboori, Nedal Ratrout

Pages: 138-150

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.21     XML

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Abstract: Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) collection utilizes the highest percentage of the MSW management budget. Additionally, choosing a vehicle route optimization method is complex, difficult and does not always yield the most practical approach. There is limited published information about a decision support system (DSS) that assists in selecting the appropriate route optimization algorithm. This study aims to design and develop a universal DSS framework that suggests effective route optimization method(s). The system consists of 21 optimization data items and four criteria that assess the available constraints and recommends the most suitable optimization method(s). The DSS prototype was validated by testing it on the available literature and observing if the suggested method by the system complies with that utilized by the researchers. It was found that the system was able to predict the method which is used in 73% of studies. Moreover, the system suggested an enhanced version of the methods used in 18% of studies. It could be concluded that the proposed framework can help to select the best algorithms in almost all existing scenarios that have been used during development. Therefore, it is recommended to use the framework for selecting the appropriate route optimization algorithm for MSW collection.


Title of the Paper: Behavior-Driven Development of Microservice Applications

 

Authors:  Tugkan Tuglular, Deniz Egemen Coşkun, Ömer Gülen, Arman Okluoğlu, Kaan Algan

Pages: 130-137

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.20     XML

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Abstract: As the number of microservice applications rises, different development methodologies for them are under consideration. In this manuscript, we propose a behavior-driven development method for microservice applications. The proposed method starts with writing end-to-end tests at the system or application level and then moves down to the microservice level, where component and unit tests are written. Next, code that passes these tests is developed one by one for each level. Once user stories are covered, our method loops again to integrate negative tests to achieve holistic testing for the microservices and the application. Finally, the proposed method is validated with an application with five microservices. Results confirm that the proposed method matches with the generally accepted test pyramid.


Title of the Paper: Dealing with Communication Channels within IEC61499 Component-Based Systems

 

Authors:  Federico Pérez, Isidro Calvo, Fabian López, Ismael Etxeberria‐Agiriano

Pages: 123-129

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.19     XML

Abstract: Traditional approaches for developing automation systems consider system itself hardly can be changed. Current challenges in automation applications include the need of autoreconfiguration in response to process changes or event triggering. In order to face these requirements, new automation methodologies are necessary. Component-based technologies, initially defined for achieving efficient, structured and reusable designs can also be used to achieve adaptation. In this work, an IEC 61499-based framework that uses the concept to deal with reconfiguration issues is presented. The final output of the framework is a distributed system IEC61499 compliant. A new concept, the communication channel, is introduced providing a new abstraction layer to deal with communication between components. The joint use of automation components and communication channels allows defining complex automation systems in an easy way.


Title of the Paper: Observability and Geometric Approach of 2D Hybrid Systems

 

Authors:  Tiberiu Vasilache, Valeriu Prepelita

Pages: 115-122

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.18     XML

Abstract: A connection is emphasized between two branches of the Systems Theory, namely the Geometric Approach and 2D Systems, with a special regard to the concept of observability. An algorithm is provided which determines the maximal subspace which is invariant with respect to two commutative matrices and which is included in a given subspace. Observability criteria are obtained for a class of 2D systems by using a suitable 2D observability Gramian and some such criteria are derived for LTI 2D systems, as well as the geometric characterization of the subspace of unobservable states. The presented algorithm is applied to determine this subspace.


Title of the Paper: Modeling Of Multi-Objective Process Plan, Its Optimization using Linear Modeling Technique

 

Authors:  Umer Asgher, Riaz Ahmad, Aamer Ahmad Baqai

Pages: 110-114

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.17     XML

Abstract: The Process planning is the procedure to opt for and schedule manufacturing procedure so as to attain one or more organizational goals and suit with a set of constraints. More specifically a Process planning in the reconfigurable manufacturing setup engages a sequence of all activities from raw material storage into the finished manufactured yield. In the current study a manufacturing setup of automotive industry is discussed. At the outset of papers, a basic process plan is modeled that includes design requirements after that it is mathematically modeled. Mathematically modeled process plan is then optimized in order to find optimal solution. Research then search the potential of linear programming optimization technique in handling optimization of process plan.


Title of the Paper: Intelligent Face Tracking for Collaborative Synchronous e-Learning using Pattern Recognition Model

 

Authors:  Kittimasak Naijit

Pages: 105-109

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.16     XML

Abstract: Intelligent Face Tracking for Collaborative Synchronous e-Learning using Pattern Recognition Model can provide high levels of interaction for distance learning initiatives. With the rapid evolution of technology, face recognition login and tracking, continuous product evaluation is necessary to ensure optimal methods and resources for connecting students, instructors, and educational content in rich, online learning communities. This article presents the analysis of online, synchronous learning solutions. Focusing on their abilities to meet technical and pedagogical needs in higher education. To make a solid comparison, the systems were examined in online classrooms with instructors, guest speakers, and students. Relative to usability, instructional needs, technical aspects and compatibility are outlined for systems.


Title of the Paper: The Measuring Engagement (ME™) Tool

 

Authors:  Normahdiah S. Said, Nadiah Suboh

Pages: 99-104

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.15     XML

Abstract: Studies on human engagement behavior whilst interacting with multimedia environment has now become very important due to the era of convergences of immersive technology in various digital platforms. This paper will describe a system to measure human engagement behavior in NORMA (Natural Observation and Reflection of Multimedia Application) experimental setting. The tool was developed as a Proof of Concept of The NEMD MODEL (Norma™ Engagement Multimedia Design Model) a renamed of An Engaging Multimedia Design Model that could explain the engagement phenomenon that has enticed the use of virtual spaces to complement its physical form. This paper is a description of The Measuring Engagement (ME™) Tool automated system in comparison to a system done manually. The system has proven to be a useful tool to enable us knows more about engagement and the phenomenon surrounding it. Findings could help us know more about engagement that may lead to excessive, immersive and addictive use of innovative technologies.


Title of the Paper: Application of a Group Decision Support System in the Reform of Study Programmes

 

Authors:  Andrej Škraba, Alenka Baggia, Blaž Rodič

Pages: 93-98

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.14     XML

Abstract: This paper presents the process and impact of the application of a group decision support system (GDSS) in the reform of post-Bologna graduate and postgraduate study programmes in two higher education institutions in Slovenia. Four experiments with four groups including both students and staff were performed. We have used the GDSS tool TeamWorks to organize, moderate and document meetings intended to develop possible answers to the question "How can we improve the content and execution of the study programmes?" The obtained results are to be used in the design of new study courses. Analysis of the idea gathering process dynamics represents important information for researchers in the field of group decision-making process dynamics. In addition to the experimental work the structure of a group decision support process is described and guidelines for the further development of tools and methodologies are presented.


Title of the Paper: In Pursuing Better Academic Result In University: A Case of Fuzzy Logic Analysis

 

Authors:  Hamzah Bin Ahmad, Nurul Ain Binti Mohd Asri

Pages: 88-92

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.13     XML

Abstract: A fuzzy logic approach is applied in this proposed system as a method to predict the performance student in pursuing better academic results in university. Fuzzy logic is used because the technique is suitable for statistical database as well as suitable to obtain general classification between excellence and moderate students. The main issue in this project is the difficulties to predict the student’s performance and to sustain their result. The fuzzy logic approach is suitable for data classification and the performance will be analyzed by using Matlab simulink. Besides that, several difference methods of membership were also been investigated in order to design and propose the most stable and reliable system. Based on the results obtained from simulation, it has provided meaningful characteristics that are significant and able to advice student getting better grades in academicals program (BEE & BEP). Moreover, the system will provide better study to student whose do not understand the university system during their early years in university.


Title of the Paper: The Microsite

 

Authors:  Tomáš Šula, Milan Banyár

Pages: 81-87

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.12     XML

Abstract: This paper deals with the analysis of microsites as a low-cost marketing communication tool used to effectively address prospective applicants for admissions to higher education institutions. The paper contains the analysis of the microsite www.ustav44.cz, which has been created to promote the Department of Marketing Communications at Tomas Bata University in Zlín. Specifically, it has been created to promote the degree course in Marketing Communications. The authors of the paper describe the individual stages of the microsite design as well as its implementation and launch, including a subsequent analysis of its functionality and overall effectiveness within a selected target group. Based on the survey results, a proposal outlining how to improve particular user elements of this microsite and how to improve the microsite as a whole has been developed. The final part of this paper contains general instructions and basic tips that may help readers create a microsite of a similar type.


Title of the Paper: Dynamics of Employee Retention Among SMEs in a Developing Economy

 

Authors:  Aminu Sanda, Alex Ntsiful

Pages: 72-80

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.11     XML

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to understand the challenges SME managers in a developing economy such as Ghana face in retaining their employees and how the situation could be mediated. This is because Ghanaian small and mediumsize enterprises are overwhelmed with the issue of how to retain their employees. Using a quantitative approach, data was collected from a sample of 300 SME managers and employees in fifteen small and medium firms in the manufacturing, financial, hospitality, IT, retail and service industries, it was found that the firms’ HR practices significantly impact negatively employee retention. It is therefore concluded that the best retention strategies available to SMEs in Ghana is the need to adopt a flexible workplace practices and work family support policies as well as focusing on good reward management practices.


Title of the Paper: Appeared Problem and Effectiveness of Strategy in Developing Western Provinces

 

Authors:  Xue He Lai Ti·Ma He Mu Ti, Zulati Litifu, Ma Chang Fa

Pages: 65-71

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.10     XML

Abstract: This paper 1 analyzed and compared the main macroeconomic indicators of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (XUAR) of China and the other provinces in China, by using the macroeconomic data of China and 12 western provinces from 1999 to 2011 and considering the indicators of average developing level and economic development. Results from this study shows that the main problems existing in the process of economic development include several aspects in XUAR, such as lacking scale of fixed and foreign investment, and existed big gap of people's income between XUAR and the whole country and the other western provinces, and also, the industrial structure is not reasonable. Therefore, XUAR should fully use the golden opportunity for a new round of western development strategy including national policy on counterpart support, and makes effort in improving investment environment and expanding the ways to attract foreign investment as well as increasing the resident’s income to reduce the gap in income. Currently, the most urgent task of XUAR is to adjust local industrial structure and speed up the social economy so as to catch up with the average developing level of China.


Title of the Paper: The Selection and Training Framework for Managers in Business Innovation and Transformation Projects

 

Authors:  Antoine Trad

Pages: 57-64

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.9     XML

Abstract: The riskiest factor in transforming a traditional Business Environment (BE) into an innovative and business lean oriented BE is the role of the business and (e-)Business Transformation Manager (BTM). The basic profile of such a BTM has not been sufficiently investigated in a holistic and educational manner. The characteristics of a suitable BTM profile is the main goal of the author's selection and training framework (STF) research project; that started in the year 2010. In this research paper, the author tries to prove that the STF research methodology, design and prototype (STF_RMDP) can be applied in a "real world case"; that is in fact the final phase. This final phase is labelled the "STF research empirical model". This whole research is a part of the author's doctorate in business administration. The STF_RMDP results define the optimal BTM profile who has to cope with complex business transformation projects (BTP). These BTPs need a specific set of skills, especially for the final and the very difficult implementation phase (Trad, Kalpic, IMRA, 2013-an award winning paper). The BTP's implementation phase is the major cause of high failure rates. The BTMs' needed hands-on skills; these skills should encompass: 1) knowledge of business process and services (BPs) technologies, 2) automated real-time business environments, 3) project management, 4) knowledge integration, 5) organizational behaviour, 6) management sciences methodologies 7) enterprise application integration and other concrete BTP implementation phase know-how artefacts. Therefore the researcher recommends the technocrats profile (Fahroomand, 2004) as a "base profile" for such BTPs; that need to be complemented with crossfunctional skills (Trad, Kalpic, ITI, 2013). More specifically, this research focuses on the influence of the BTMs' hands-on business architecture experience, background and education, on managing complex BTP implementations. Where such transformations integrate avant-garde innovation, knowledge and technology. “We know that those organizations that are consistently successful at managing innovation-related changes outperform their peers in terms of growth and financial performance” (Tidd, 2006). The author has based his research model on the main fact that only around 12% of business organizations successfully manage innovation-related business transformations initiatives. Therefore, there is an important need for a dynamic and automated way of selecting and training future BTMs. BTMs who would be capable of implementing such complex BP based systems (Tidd, Bessant, 2009). Where STF_RMDP is the empirical model with which the author wants to prove that future BTMs can be selected to successfully build or reengineer various electronic and lean BE (ELBE) components. The empirical model will contain a real world prototype and surveys that will generate the need data sets the qualitative research approach.


Title of the Paper: Least Squares 3D Algorithm for the Study of Deformations with Terrestrial Laser Scanner

 

Authors: Vincenzo Barrile, Giuseppe M. Meduri, Giuliana Bilotta

Pages: 53-56

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.8     XML

Abstract: The application in question is aimed, in the study of deformations of mountain areas, as well as test the TLS applied to a hilly area in two different eras. For this purpose, it was also tested using the algorithm LS3D “Least square 3D surface matching” that allows both the registration of point clouds produced by scans carried out without using targets but, overall, the estimate of deformations that in this case, compared to other methods, is done directly on the basis of the two data sets acquired in two different periods of time t1 and t2.


Title of the Paper: Static Hybrid Multihop Relaying

 

Authors: Sami Touati, Hatem Boujemaa

Pages: 48-52

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.7     XML

Abstract: In this work, we propose a new static hybrid mul- tihop relaying protocol where some relays amplify the received signal whereas the remaining ones use Decode and Forward (DF) relaying. The relaying mode in each relay is set using the distance between the different nodes or the average SNR. The exact and asymptotic bit error probabilities are derived. Simulation results are provided in different contexts to compare the performance of hybrid relaying to conventional AF and DF relaying.


Title of the Paper: Image Compression Approach using Segmentation and Total Variation Regularization

 

Authors: Ahmad Shahin, Walid Moudani, Fadi Chakik

Pages: 43-47

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.6     XML

Abstract: In this paper we present a hybrid model for image compression based on segmentation and total variation regularization. The main motivation behind our approach is to offer decode image with immediate access to objects/features of interest. We are targeting high quality decoded image in order to be useful on smart devices, for analysis purpose, as well as for multimedia content-based description standards. The image is approximated as a set of uniform regions: The technique will assign well-defined members to homogenous regions in order to achieve image segmentation. The Adaptive fuzzy c-means (AFcM) is a guide to cluster image data. A second stage coding is applied using entropy coding to remove the whole image entropy redundancy. In the decompression phase, the reverse process is applied in which the decoded image suffers from missing details due to the coarse segmentation. For this reason, we suggest the application of total variation (TV) regularization, such as the Rudin-Osher-Fatemi (ROF) model, to enhance the quality of the coded image. Our experimental results had shown that ROF may increase the PSNR and hence offer better quality for a set of benchmark grayscale images.


Title of the Paper: Evaluating the Mesh-connected Multiprocessor Running a Parallel Algorithm Representing the Gravitational Interaction between N Bodies

 

Authors: Jamil Al-Azzeh

Pages: 30-42

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.5     XML

Abstract: In this study, a parallel algorithm to solve the problem of gravitational interaction between N bodies is considered. The peak performance of an 8 × 8 mesh-connected multiprocessor system while implementing the algorithm is evaluated. Further, the mappings of parallel threads of the algorithm onto the multiprocessor are studied based on two criteria for minimizing the communication delay. The corresponding real application performance of the multiprocessor is estimated


Title of the Paper: Micro-Doppler Signature based Helicopter Identification and Classification Through Machine Learning

 

Authors: S. Iswariya, J. Valarmathi

Pages: 23-29

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.4     XML

Abstract: This paper focuses on identification of helicopter by exploiting the concept of micro-Doppler effect which is prominent in targets containing rotating, oscillating or vibrating parts in it. Radar received signal is analyzed by Short Time Fourier Transform (STFT) to extract the micro Doppler (mD) signature. From the mD signature, the helicopter parameters are estimated. In a multiple helicopters scenario, estimated parameters will be a mixure, pertaining to the multiple helicopters. These parameters are classified further using a machine learning algorithm, namely k-means clustering to classify the helicopters. Simulated results for the synthesized received signal shows the betted estimates of the helicopter parameter through mD signature. Dataset containing basic parameters like number of blades, blade length and rotational rates of the UN-1N helicopter (rotor with 2 blades), the SH-3H helicopter (rotor with 5 blades) and the CH-54B helicopter (rotor with 6 blades) are considered for the classification. Results show a good classification. When analysed with different SNR level in dataset, at lower SNR, observed some ovelapping in the classification.


Title of the Paper: Design of Model Reference Controller of Variable Speed Wind Generators for Frequency Regulation Contribution

 

Authors: Elvisa Becirovic, Jakub Osmic, Mirza Kusljugic, Nedjeljko Peric

Pages: 14-22

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.3     XML

Abstract: This paper presents a novel control algorithm for variable speed wind generators (VSWG), designed to provide support to grid frequency regulation. The proposed control algorithm ensures that VSWG ‘’truly’’ emulates response of a conventional generating unit with non-reheat steam turbine (GUNRST) in the first several seconds after active power unbalance. A systematic method of analysis and synthesis of the new control algorithm is described in detail


Title of the Paper: Developing a Master Production Schedule using Fuzzy Mixed Integer Linear Programming

 

Authors: Mohamed K. Omar, Muzalna Mohd-Jusoh, Mohd Omar

Pages: 8-13

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.2     XML

Abstract: This paper considers the hierarchical production planning (HPP) concept to solve a production planning problem in the process industry in a fuzzy environment. The adopted fuzzy HPP consists of two levels in which a fuzzy aggregate production planning (FAPP) model is developed in the first level, and then a fuzzy disaggregate production planning (FDPP) model is developed at the second level. The FAPP was reported by Omar et al. [1] and therefore, this research paper discusses the FDPP model. We formulated the disaggregate model as a fuzzy mixed-integer linear programming model that aims to develop a master production schedule in which numbers of optimal batches are developed in presence of setup time. In addition, we evaluate the performance of the FMILP by comparing its results with a previously reported approach. The findings indicate that significant cost savings were achieved by adopting the fuzzy mathematical programming approach.


Title of the Paper: Latency Analysis in the 2-Dimensional Systolic Arrays for Matrix Multiplication

 

Authors: Halil Snopce, Azir Aliu

Pages: 1-7

DOI: 10.46300/9108.2021.15.1     XML

Abstract: This paper deals with the latency analysis in a twodimensional systolic array for matrix multiplication. The latency for all possible connection schemes is discussed. In this way there is obtained the lower bound of the latency that can be achieved using such arrays.