Ontology-based knowledge representation and semantic search information retrieval: case study of the underutilized crops domain

The aim of using semantic technologies in domain knowledge modeling is to introduce the semantic meaning of concepts in knowledge bases, such that they are both human-readable as well as machine-understandable. Due to their powerful knowledge representation formalism and associated inference mechanisms, ontology-based approaches have been increasingly adopted to formally represent domain knowledge. The primary objective of this thesis work has been to use semantic technologies in advancing knowledge-sharing of Underutilized crops as a domain and investigate the integration of underlying ontologies developed in OWL (Web Ontology Language) with augmented SWRL (Semantic Web Rule Language) rules for added expressiveness. The work further investigated generating ontologies from existing data sources and proposed the reverse-engineering approach of generating domain specific conceptualization through competency questions posed from possible ontology users and domain experts. For utilization, a semantic search engine (the Onto-CropBase) has been developed to serve as a Web-based access point for the Underutilized crops ontology model. Relevant linked-data in Resource Description Framework Schema (RDFS) were added for comprehensiveness in generating federated queries. While the OWL/SWRL combination offers a highly expressive ontology language for modeling knowledge domains, the combination is found to be lacking supplementary descriptive constructs to model complex real-life scenarios, a necessary requirement for a successful Semantic Web application. To this end, the common logic programming formalisms for extending Description Logic (DL)-based ontologies were explored and the state of the art in SWRL expressiveness extensions determined with a view to extending the SWRL formalism. Subsequently, a novel fuzzy temporal extension to the Semantic Web Rule Language (FT-SWRL), which combines SWRL with fuzzy logic theories based on the valid-time temporal model, has been proposed to allow modeling imprecise temporal expressions in domain ontologies

Ontology-based knowledge representation and semantic search information retrieval: case study of the underutilized crops domain

The aim of using semantic technologies in domain knowledge modeling is to introduce the semantic meaning of concepts in knowledge bases, such that they are both human-readable as well as machine-understandable. Due to their powerful knowledge representation formalism and associated inference mechanisms, ontology-based approaches have been increasingly adopted to formally represent domain knowledge. The primary objective of this thesis work has been to use semantic technologies in advancing knowledge-sharing of Underutilized crops as a domain and investigate the integration of underlying ontologies developed in OWL (Web Ontology Language) with augmented SWRL (Semantic Web Rule Language) rules for added expressiveness. The work further investigated generating ontologies from existing data sources and proposed the reverse-engineering approach of generating domain specific conceptualization through competency questions posed from possible ontology users and domain experts. For utilization, a semantic search engine (the Onto-CropBase) has been developed to serve as a Web-based access point for the Underutilized crops ontology model. Relevant linked-data in Resource Description Framework Schema (RDFS) were added for comprehensiveness in generating federated queries. While the OWL/SWRL combination offers a highly expressive ontology language for modeling knowledge domains, the combination is found to be lacking supplementary descriptive constructs to model complex real-life scenarios, a necessary requirement for a successful Semantic Web application. To this end, the common logic programming formalisms for extending Description Logic (DL)-based ontologies were explored and the state of the art in SWRL expressiveness extensions determined with a view to extending the SWRL formalism. Subsequently, a novel fuzzy temporal extension to the Semantic Web Rule Language (FT-SWRL), which combines SWRL with fuzzy logic theories based on the valid-time temporal model, has been proposed to allow modeling imprecise temporal expressions in domain ontologies

Application of Finite Markov Chain to a Model of Schooling

In this paper, we focused on the application of finite Markov chain to a model of Schooling. The sample for the study was selected from one Secondary School in Nigeria. Four sets of graduates' data were used. Thus, 474 students were used as the study sample. Primary data were used as the methodology, while the knowledge of finite Markov chain was used to analyse the data collected for the study. Base on the result obtained in this study when compared with the actual values from the actual data, indicated that the model formulated, proves very efficient and can be accepted as suitable for predicting the Academic progress of the sampled school. Keywords: Matrix; Markov chain; Probability vector; Model of schoolin

Strong Convergence for the Split Feasibility Problem in Real Hilbert Space

In this paper, we study the cyclic algorithm for the split common fixed point problem (SCFPP) and multiple set split feasibility problem (MSSFP). Furthermore we proved the strong convergence for the (SCFPP) and (MSSFP) which extend and improve the result of F. Wang and H.K. Xu [9] from a weak convergence to a strong convergence. Keywords: Convex Feasibility, Split Feasibility, Split Common Fixed Point, Nonexpansive Mapping, Class –  operator, Iterative Algorithm  and Strong Convergence

Strong Convergence of an Algorithm about Strongly Quasi-Nonexpansive Mappings for the Split Common Fixed-Point Problem in Hilbert Space

Based on the recent work by Censor and Segal (2009 J. Convex Anal.16), and inspired by Moudafi (2010 Inverse Problem 26), in this paper, we study the modified algorithm of Yu and Sheng [29] for the strongly quasi - nonexpansive operators to solve the split common fixed-point problem (SCFP) in the framework of Hilbert space. Furthermore we proved the strong convergence for the (SCFPP) by imposing some conditions. Our results extend and improved/developed some recent result announced. Keywords:  Convex Feasibility, Split Feasibility, Split Common Fixed Point, Strongly Quasi-Nonexpansive Operator, Iterative Algorithm and Strong Convergence

Enhancing Effective Resources Utilization in Nigerian Public Universities Through New Public Management Strategy

Universities are established to advance the frontier of knowledge. Effective resources utilization in Nigerian Public Universities has become necessary in order to realize the set objectives. This paper argues that New Public Management is a necessary strategy that should be adopted by Public Universities in order to enhance their resources utilization. Relying on secondary data, the paper highlighted the key principles of NPM strategy as well as the relevant areas it could be applied within public university system. This paper suggests for eradication of waste and increase in efficiency and accountability in the use of resources

The Benefit and Importance of Mobile Satellite Signal in Northern Nigeria: GPS Approach

A Handheld GPS receiver as tool for training college students on mobile satellite signal propagation was designed using Global Positioning System (GPS) approach. These refer to the experimental setup of the equipment that is the connection done between the GPS receiver with a computer. The satellite propagation data received from the GPS satellite can be recorded continuously with an updates rate of 2 seconds. The experiment was carried out in an open space environment at predetermine locations using simple setup, where a cheap, readily and available portable GPS receiver were connected to the computer to acquire propagation data. The computer was equipped with a self-developed package graphical user interface (GUI) monitoring the propagation information from the GPS satellites and saving the data. The developed system can be set up anywhere at any location.  The sate-up will serve as a database for view and analysis of mobile satellite orbiting the sky of Northern part of Nigeria. Cost effective referring to a low-cost and readily available GPS receiver that can be easily set-up as compared to equipment designed specifically for an experimental purpose that is normally very expensive