The nursing profession is currently facing the challenge of improving retention amongst the nursing workforce. This paper identifies retention as a key issue for nurse leaders and examines aggravating factors related to nurse retention. Multiple research studies are reviewed to support the link between job satisfaction and role ambiguity with relation to retention. Additionally, Lewin's Change theory is analyzed as a potential change strategy for nurse leaders to utilize as they aim to improve work environments. Nurse Leaders must examine issues related to retention and develop strategies for improvement; playing a critical role in ensuring the satisfaction amongst workers through providing ongoing administrative support, clearly defining work roles, ensuring adequate training, and creating healthy work environments. NURSE RETENTION RELATED TO WORKER SATISFACTION 3 Nurse Retention Related to Worker Satisfaction: a Key Challenge for Nurse Leaders. The anticipated shortage across all levels of nursing is frequently discussed amongst nursing professionals. The American Association of Colleges of Nursing has clearly voiced their concern over the anticipated nursing shortages, pointing to the compounding issue of aging baby boomers (AACN, 2012). Exacerbating the problem of nursing shortages, Krsek (2011) reported 27.1 percent of nurses voluntarily leave their position after the first year of work, creating an additional issue with retaining the current nursing workforce. In light of concern over anticipated nursing shortages, the issue of nursing retention is heightened. Nurse leaders must examine issues related to retention and develop strategies to improve retention and recruitment for the nursing workforce. One area of significant impact for this issue is increasing worker satisfaction. Marshall (2011) discussed the critical importance of provider's satisfaction in retaining valuable personnel, adding "retention of nurses and other providers is directly correlated with the general work environment, which is heavily influenced by the characteristics of the leader" (p. 140). This statement points to the critical role that nurse leaders have in ensuring the satisfaction amongst workers. The purpose of this paper is to examine the issue of nurse staff retention related to worker satisfaction as a key challenge for leaders in nursing. Literature Support: Improved Work Environment With an aging population, an aging nursing workforce, and the ever-increasing complexity of our health care system, nurse leaders are forced to examine retention and recruitment (O'Brien-Pallas, Murphy, Shamian, Li, & Hayes, 2010). Nurse leaders must first recognize the large cost to an organization as a result of nursing turnover. Strachota (as cited in O'Brien-Pallas et al., 2010) reported a cost of 42,000 dollars to replace a medical-surgical nurse, this cost being even higher for specialty areas of nursing. Consistently, researchers continue to NURSE RETENTION RELATED TO WORKER SATISFACTION 4 point to the importance of job satisfaction as a key factor in nursing turnover (O'Brien-Pallas et al, 2010). Job satisfaction has been defined as "the affective orientation that an employee has towards his or her work" (Lu, Barribal, Zhang, & While, 2011, p. 1018). Through the identifying of factors that affect one's job satisfaction, nurse leaders have the potential to help develop management interventions and solutions (Lu et al., 2011). In order to develop these strategies for improvement, the workplace culture or environment must be fully understood. The culture of a workplace has been specifically linked with the well-being, commitment, and experience of its staff members (Tillott, Walksh, & Moxham, 2013). Tillott et al. (2013) describes the following as key elements of an effective workplace culture: "shared governance, role clarification, transformational leadership, open communication, teamwork, safety, person-centeredness, lifelong learning, and involvement and participation by stakeholders" (p. 28). When these elements are not achieved the resulting negative work environment has significant impact on the nursing workforce, as well as posing a threat to the larger health care system. Literature has shown increased sick leave, poor retention, and high frequency of medication errors amongst nurses reporting poor workplace cultures: thus, having detrimental effect on care provided in these types of organizations (Tillott et al., 2013). A recent Canadian study sought to examine the relationship between determinants of nursing turnover and their implications for nurse leaders through survey collections of both patients and staff nurses. From the perspective of the health care system, the most frightening result was related to medication errors as the study linked the increased likelihood of at least one medication error occurring on units that reported higher turnover rates and high level of role ambiguity (O'Brien-Pallas et al., 2010). Further, the study indicated a direct link between role ambiguity and high turnover rates: Units that reported increased conflict and ambiguity between NURSE RETENTION RELATED TO WORKER SATISFACTION 5 roles also had high turnover rates amongst staff (O'Brien-Pallas et al., 2010). The implications of this study for nurse leaders are clear. Effective leadership must reflect clear feedback of both job performance and expectations as well as provide well-defined role clarity (O'Brien-Pallas et al., 2010). "Providers need to feel valued, to believe they are making a difference, to believe they have control over the care they provide, and to feel able to provide care in the manner they believe their patients deserve" (Marshall, 2011, p. 140). An additional study further supported results discussed in the Canadian research. Role conflict and ambiguity we found to be significant predictors of burnout in nursing (Dasgupta, 2012). Dasgupta (2012) discussed the negative relationship often seen between burnout and motivation: A nurse who feels overworked or underutilized brings little motivation to his/her work, thus, providing poor patient care that in turn negatively reflects upon an organization. Although removing all stressors seems daunting, nurse leaders should work to reduce these stressors as part of their main objective of management (Dasgupta, 2012).


The use of Deep Ultraviolet Light Emitting Diodes (DUV LEDs) is emerging as a state of the art technology for point-of-use water disinfection. Sensor Electronic Technology, Inc. (SETi) has taken the lead in the design and fabrication of compact DUV lamps based on III-Nitride semiconductors (GaN, AlN, InN and their alloys). These semiconductor-based DUV light sources offer narrow spectral power distribution (<12 nm FWHM) with peak emission wavelengths from 227 nm to 340 nm. CW optical output power of up to 100 mW (at 275-280 nm wavelengths) can be achieved using a single, hermetically sealed lamp with a footprint of about 1 square inch. This technology has been incorporated into a design for a chemical free water purification system. SETi fabricated and tested a compact DUV LED point-of-use water purification system. We demonstrated reduction of E. coli bacteria concentration by 6 LOG for 0.5 liter/min flow and 4.5 LOG reduction for 2 liter/min flow. SETi also tested Enterococcus bacteria and achieved a 4 LOG reduction for 0.5 liter/min flow.


Memorandum of understanding between the International Fund for Agricultural Development, the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund and the United Nations Development Programme. 7 May 1984


In order to analyze the influence of a water medium on the forming process and penetration performance of a shaped charge jet, a comparative study was carried out on an underwater shaped charge jet (USCJ) and a shaped charge jet (SCJ) in air. The virtual mass hypothesis is proposed to analyze the forming mechanism of USCJs. The arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian algorithm is adopted to carry out a series of simulation calculations considering the impact of standoff height and liner cone angle. The penetration test of the shaped charge jet in two media is carried out, and the experimental results verify the effectiveness of the theory and simulation. The differences of SCJ formation and penetration in air and water are analyzed. The results demonstrate that the USCJ exhibits a higher jet head velocity, higher cumulative kinetic energy, and a greater penetration ability than those of the jet in air. The depth of penetration (DOP) initially increases and subsequently decreases with an increase in the standoff height. The optimal standoff height of the USCJ is approximately 4–4.5 times greater than the charge diameter, whereas the SCJ in air is approximately 3.5–4 times greater than the charge diameter. Additionally, the DOP of the jet decreases at the optimal standoff height with an increase in the cone angle.


In a crisis in the international settlement system, there is a need to strengthen payment discipline and accelerate payments. The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic have also led to a reduction in the liquid means of transport organizations and also increased the problem. Acceleration of repayment of accounts receivable increases cash security. The methods of accounts receivable management integrated into the system based on a client-oriented approach are investigated. The proposed system allows you to track the balances of accounts receivable, comparing them with sales volumes and turnover indicators. The concept of the cycle of accounts receivable circulation is formulated. It is revealed that the existing indicators of turnover of accounts receivable and the volume of sales do not accurately reflect the quality of repayment of accounts receivable, the relationship between these indicators is not revealed. They do not disclose the possibility of additional release of funds from settlements with debtors. To solve this problem, a new indicator has been introduced – the rate of repayment of receivables. An approach is proposed to substantiate the expediency of accelerating payments based on the elasticity of revenue from the sale of transport services to the rate of repayment of receivables.


Objective To observe the therapeutic effect of leflunomide tablets combined with Wubang pill on rheumatoid arthritis. Methods 60 patients with rheumatoid arthritis were randomly divided into two groups.30 patients in control group were treated by leflunomide tablets 20mg,once a day, however, the other 30 patients in treatment group, on the basis of control group, were treated by Wubang pill, with a treatment course of 6 months for both groups. The therapeutic effects and the changes of clinical symptoms, physical signs,ESR, rheumatoid factor before and after treatment were observed, so did the adverse reactions. Results There were significant differences in clinical symptoms, physical signs,ESR, rheumatoid factor before and after treatment(P0.05 or P0.01). The incidence of adverse reactions in treatment group and control group was 3.3% and 20.0% respectively, there was a significant difference between two groups(P0.05). Conclusion The therapeutic effect of leflunomide tablets combined with Wubang pill is superior to that of simple leflunomide tablets in treatment of rheumatoid arthritis,with few side effects.


Economic growth is the general material base for all social elements to develop while a harmonious society is the environmental condition for economy to develop rapidly.Nevertheless,harmonious society construction has no direct contact with economy growth.It's through the social distribution that they are related to each other.The building of a harmonious society and the economic distribution method are directly interrelated,and economic distribution method and economy growth are in the state of dialectical unity.So the economy growth contributes to the harmonious society construction by means of social distribution.In the post period of society-economy change,though the economic growth increased,the competition for profit and interest lead to splitting up of China's social classes and enlarging the gap of profit.To ensure the fruit of economic growth shared by the majority of people and the profit conflicts and social contraditions resolved,a developing aim should be set that the economic growth works for a harmonious society through social distribution.


: The study was conducted to investigate the relationship between E-learning and Academic achievement of research scholars in HEIs using multi mediators. The study used theoretical network approach for review of literature, Barron Kenny model for mediators. The study employed quantitative deductive cross-sectional survey design. Population of the study was doctoral and master of philosophy researchers in HEIs, and sample size was 137. Convenient sampling was done in administering the questionnaires. The study reported that PICT, EL, TF, and UDL enhance the SAA. It also finds that predictors explain significant variation in the criterion variable. The study reported that PEL is a significant mediator between UEL and SAA, and UEL between EL and SAA, whereas partial mediation is shown by TCF between UEL and SAA. The study finds that computer experience stands insignificant for more than three variables i.e., EL, TF, UDF and SAA except PICT, rest of demographics have significant role. It is concluded that efforts may be made to follow the principle of end user computing, usefulness and ease of use in developing eLearning system, developer should not play down the orgware and peopleware aspects of the organizations i.e., technology be given human face to avoid disturbances and resistance.


The U.S. Geological Survey, in cooperation with Spartanburg Water, evaluated the concentrations, loads, and yields of suspended sediment, dissolved ammonia, dissolved nitrate plus nitrite, total organic nitrogen, total nitrogen, dissolved orthophosphate, dissolved phosphorus, and total phosphorus at sites in the South Pacolet, North Pacolet, and Pacolet Rivers in northern South Carolina and southwestern North Carolina from October 1, 2005, to September 30, 2009 (water years1 2006 to 2009). Nutrient and sediment loads and yields also were computed for the intervening subbasin of the Pacolet River not represented by the South and North Pacolet River Basins. Except for a few outliers, the majority of the measurements of total nitrogen concentrations were well below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommended guideline of 0.69 milligram per liter for streams and rivers in the nutrient ecoregion IX, which includes the study area within the Pacolet River Basin. Dissolved orthophosphate, dissolved phosphorus, and total phosphorus concentrations were significantly lower at the South Pacolet River site compared to the North Pacolet and Pacolet River sites. About 90 percent of the total phosphorus concentrations at the South Pacolet River site were below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recommended guideline of 0.37 milligram per liter, and more than 75 percent of the total phosphorus concentrations at the North Pacolet and Pacolet River sites were above that guideline. At all sites, minimum annual nutrient loads for the estimation period were observed during water year 2008 when severe drought conditions were present. An estimated mean annual total nitrogen load of 37,770 kilograms per year and yield of 2.63 kilograms per hectare per year were determined for the South Pacolet River site for the estimation period. The North Pacolet River site had a mean annual total nitrogen load of 65,890 kilograms per year and yield of 2.19 kilograms per 1 A water year extends from October of one calendar year to September of the following calendar year. hectare per year. The Pacolet River had a mean annual total nitrogen load of 99,780 kilograms per year and yield of 1.82 kilograms per hectare per year. Mean annual total phosphorus loads of 2,576; 9,404; and 11,710 kilograms per year and yields of 0.180, 0.313, and 0.213 kilograms per hectare per year were estimated at the South Pacolet, North Pacolet, and Pacolet River sites, respectively. Annually, the intervening subbasin of the Pacolet River contributed negligible amounts of total nitrogen and total phosphorus loads, and large losses of dissolved nitrate plus nitrite and orthophosphate loads were determined for the subbasin. Biological (algal) uptake in the two reservoirs in this intervening area was considered the likely explanation for the loss of these constituents. Estimated mean annual suspended-sediment loads were 21,190,000; 9,895,000; and 6,547,000 kilograms per year at the South Pacolet, North Pacolet, and Pacolet River sites, respectively. In the intervening Pacolet River subbasin, computed annual suspended-sediment loads were consistently negative, indicating large percentage losses in annual suspendedsediment load. Sedimentation processes in the two reservoirs are the most likely explanations for these apparent losses. At all sites, the winter season tended to have the highest estimated seasonal dissolved orthophosphate and dissolved nitrate plus nitrite fluxes, and the summer and fall seasons tended to have the lowest fluxes. The reverse pattern, however, was observed in the intervening drainage area in the Pacolet River where the lowest fluxes of dissolved orthophosphate and nitrate plus nitrite occurred during the winter and spring seasons and the highest occurred during the summer and fall seasons. Synoptic samples were collected during a high-flow event in August 2009 at eight sites that represented shoreline and minor tributary drainages. The South Pacolet River site was identified as contributing greater than 80 percent of the cumulative nutrient and sediment load to the downstream reservoirs for that event. This finding implies that the minor shoreline drainages and tributaries near Lake Bowen and Reservoir #1 were minor contributors to the overall nutrient load into these reservoirs when compared to the South Pacolet River site. Concentrations, Loads, and Yields of Nutrients and Suspended Sediment in the South Pacolet, North Pacolet, and Pacolet Rivers, Northern South Carolina and Southwestern North Carolina, October 2005 to September 2009 By Celeste A. Journey, Andral W. Caldwell, Toby D. Feaster, Matthew D. Petkewich, and Paul M. Bradley 2 Nutrients and Suspended Sediment in the South Pacolet, North Pacolet, and Pacolet Rivers, SC and NC, 2005–2009


Three Poetic Dramas Collection was compiled jointly by Zou Shijin(father) and Zou Yi(son) who lived in early Qing Dynasty.With the aesthetic outlook that poetic drama is superior to tale of drama,the editors not only constituted the basic compiling rule,but also concentrated their thoughts on surviving history.


This report assesses the risks to human health and the environment posed by the Bear Creek Burial Grounds under three remedial alternatives proposed under the Closure and Post Closure Activities Project. Chapters 3, 4, and 5 present background material on the geology and hydrology of the Burial Grounds, waste disposal practices at the Burial Grounds and data on the present extent of contamination. Chapter 6 discusses the rationale for selecting the contaminants posing the greatest risks to health and the environment. The risk posed by this group of contaminants is then assessed quantitatively. Proposed remedial alternatives for the site are described in Chapter 7. Chapter 8 evaluates migration and persistence of contaminants under each of the remedial alternatives. An assessment of the risk to human health posed by the site is presented in Chapter 9, and an assessment of ecological risk is presented in Chapter 10. Chapter 11 presents a summary of the findings of this study and makes recommendations for further action. Appendixes A and B discuss the details of groundwater modeling and surface water calculations. 60 refs., 81 figs., 32 tabs.


The labour sector and industrial relations are pivotal for Indonesia's development, especially in the current neo-capitalist setting. Therefore, this article examined the current Indonesian labour law and its industrial relations through a comparative analysis with Islamic principles, particularly after revision with the 2020 Omnibus Law. Using a socio-legal methodology, it analysed the historical and political contexts of the Acts on labour to determine their tendency to enhance or undermine labourers' rights. Moreover, this article explored the government's utilisation of the Acts for suppression and compared the ways of Islamic principles' regulation of justice in industrial affairs, especially in the minimum wage policy. The study revealed that the 2003 Manpower Law, the 2020 Omnibus Law on Work Creation, and the 2021 Regulation on Wages, which are claimed to protect labourer' rights, erode them instead. The labour laws are firm in stressing workers' duties and obligations, yet are indecisive in regulating their rights, leading to the reduction and abolishment of several work benefits. In addition, government authorities are weak and accommodate to the interests of companies and investors. Therefore, this article concluded that the labour law provision, specifically the legal issue of minimum wage policy, does not correspond to Islamic principles and the practices of maslahah and maqosid al-shari'ah.


In this paper a decision support and risk management methodology to electric energy commercialization in the energy market environment is proposed. The risk management plays a key role for companies and market agents. The problem can be characterized as an optimal allocation of energy between spot market, bilateral contracts, energy future contracts and exotic derivatives. The use of standard mean-variance model, a Markowitz selection portfolio, does not work so well in immature markets. However, considering a robust modeling with liquidity limits and natural constraints of market power it is possible to add value and size the risks embedded in the electric power negotiations. The decision that has to be taken is how much energy should be bought or sold in advance, and how large the exposition to the uncertain spot market, as well as the profits and risks involved. In this work, it is proposed to model the risk using a Condition Value at Risk as the criterion for choosing the most appropriate optimal portfolio. The evaluation of the proposal is carried out in order to assess the adherence of the model and the financial impacts on the dealer's portfolio through comparison with past price expectations.


This study analyzes the situation with investors that will be port operators in three Ukrainian ports and tries to forecast in what direction their relation will develop, how and why they will change, which influence it will be when these investors enter the market. In all cases I analyzed the strategy and these companies generally (with help of SWOT-analysis of each company), thought that's good decision to do their business in Ukraine or not, they have enough demand or many competitors. Also, I consider situation in Ukraine with law, reforms and economic.
Odessa is bigger city compared to Chernomorsk and Yuzhny, and it is a region center, so it has more benefits in logistics like better situation with railways and car roads, but other two ports have their benefits, too. Chernomorsk has more investors, because of many free space, and Yuzhny can accept deeper deadweight. Each port can be hub. It's very important to future economics of Ukraine and it can even be one of the best chances to finish economic crisis in our country.


This article discusses treatment of an adult West Indian female who was the vitim of incest during childhood and adolescence. West Indian immigrants are those African-Carribbeans from the English-speaking Caribbean Islands who subsequently immigrated to the United States. Studies of West Indians provide a knowledge base for incorporation into appropriate and culture-specific treatment techniques. Winnicott's object relations construct of holding processes and facilitating environment are expanded to incorporate cultural knowledge in the interventions for this case study. As the client works throught the experiences of the sexual abuse, ego integration results in a developing maturity in love and work.


This paper characterizes optimal capital and labor income taxes in a lifecycle model of human capital investment with heterogeneous agents of continuous types. The key feature of the model is that some private expenses for consumption may be disguised as private expenses for education purposes. The feature leads to positive capital taxes and negative labor taxes in an agent's early lifecycle. The policy of taxes on capital and subsidies on labor serves as a mechanism to alleviate information-induced distortions to learning, as opposed to education subsidies to offset tax-induced distortions to learning in the existing literature.


Abstract Aluminiumalloy (AA2014) based metal matrix composites were produced by spray atomization and co-deposition. The mass median diameter and mass flow rate of SiC were varied between 6 and 58 μm and between 10 and 30 wt.% of the melt flow rate, respectively. Microstructures of deposits and overspray powder particles were examined. Porosity and SiC content were measured at different positions in the preform. The fraction of SiC particulates incorporated in the preform varies between 4 and 11 vol.%, which is caused by the low compaction efficiency lying within the range of 30 to 50% of injected secondary particulates. Porosity is observed to increase with increase in deposited SiC content. Optical microscopy shows a uniform distribution of particles in the microstructure. Microstructural examination of overspray powder particles shows that the basic reason for the incorporation of smaller particles is the collision between reinforcement particles and the liquid droplets during flight. The results are presented and discussed in light of process parameters used.


There are emerging concerns about the preparedness of rural communities in the United States in the face of the 2019 novel coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2, causing the disease COVID-19) considering the existing disparities across the social determinants of health between rural and urban Americans. Taking into account the current exponential rate of spread of the coronavirus, this article critically examines the risk facing the 60 million Americans living in rural areas, discusses possible solutions pertaining to rural COVID-19 prevention, and examines measures to consider to prepare for this epidemic before it reaches rural areas.


Objective To explore the clinical value of whole-body diffusion weighted imaging background suppression(DWIBS) in the early detection of malignant tumor bone metastasis.Methods 60 patients with pathologically validated malignant tumors underwent DWIBS,meanwhile,MRI over suspicious sites was performed,with enhanced scanning given when necessary.The detecting rates of bone metastasis by DWIBS and conventional MRI were compared with final clinical diagnosis.Results Fifty-five patients were diagnosed with spine metastasis clinically.Conventional MRI united DWIBS,the sensitivity,specificity,positive predictive value,negative predictive value was 98.8%,99.4%,95.4%,99.8%,respectively.Compared with the conventional MRI and DWIBS,it considered statistically significant(P0.05).Conclusion DWIBS has a certain value on early diagnosis of bone metastatic lesions,and definite diagnosis may be achieved when combining DWIBS with conventional MRI.


From pressure–volume–temperature measurements, in combination with published dielectric spectroscopy results, we assess the volume dependence of structural relaxation in cresolphthalein–dimethylether (KDE). Structural relaxation in KDE cannot be described as either a volume activated or thermally activated process, and unlike results for some other molecular glass formers, temperature is not the dominant control variable. The inflection point of the PVT data yields a glass temperature, Tg, that corresponds to a dielectric relaxation time equal to 10 s. There is a marked variation with pressure, dTg/dP=307 K/GPa at low pressure. We also carried out dynamic mechanical measurements on KDE near Tg. The shape of the mechanical and dielectric relaxation functions, as well as both the magnitude and temperature dependence of the respective relaxation times, are the same. Such equivalence is not generally expected, and arises herein due to the rigid structure of the KDE molecule.


In order to study the effect of the movable die on sheet hydroforming, experiments are carried out on a movable die and a fixed die. In the case of the movable die, two different loading modes are treated in the experiments. These are here denoted loading mode 1 and 2. Based on the experimental results, the conclusion is that compared with the deformation with the movable die and without the movable die, it is much easier to get a good forming of the workpiece when using the movable die, especially when forming shape-complicated workpieces. The thickness distribution is more uniform and the forming limit of the sheet metal is increased in the sheet hydroforming using a movable die. Furthermore, the thickness distribution gets more uniform when using the movable die and adopting loading mode 2 compared to that of adopting loading mode 1.


An instrument is described which is designed to provide a constant-amplitude variable-frequency pressure cycle in a liquid, suitable for the determination of the frequency response of precision pressure transducers of low-volume displacement. The natural frequency of the fluid filled oscillator is 630 c/s.


Hilbert space fragmentation (HSF) is a phenomenon that the Hilbert space of an isolated quantum system splits into exponentially many disconnected subsectors. The fragmented systems do not thermalize after long-time evolution because the dynamics are restricted to a small subsector. Inspired by recent developments of the HSF, we construct the Hamiltonian that exhibits the HSF in the momentum space. We show that persistent-current (PC) states emerge due to the HSF in the momentum space. We also investigate the stability of the PC states against the random potential, which breaks the structure of the HSF, and find that the decay rate of the PC is almost independent of the current velocity.


[Objective] To know about the status of the activity of daily living(ADL) of rural elderly population in Shandong Province,and to explore the influencing factors.[Methods] Used ADL scales to measure the ADL of 451 rural elderly population of Shandong Province,then analyzed the influencing factors with multinomial logistic regression.[Results] The male,with spouse and low age were preventive factors of the decreasing or dysfunction of ADL;low educational level,few activities and chronic disease were risk factors.[Conclusion] The related departments should improve the activity of daily living of rural elderly population and pay more attention to the elderly people with old age,without the spouse,with low the educational level,the female and with chronic disease.


Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore how BS first-year students of the computer science department at a private university in Karachi perceive project-based learning (PjBL) implemented in the English composition course. The more specific objectives were to bring to light the benefits and challenges associated with PjBL from the students' standpoint. Research works on students' perceptions of project-based learning particularly in English language teaching remains an underresearched area in Pakistan and this makes this study useful and essential.

Design/methodology/approach
Adopting the lens of constructionism, this study used the qualitative approach for investigation. Thus, to achieve an in-depth insight into students' perceptions, they were provided an opportunity to reflect and freely report their views regarding the project approach. The participants in this study formulate perceptions about a given phenomenon based on a thoughtful analysis of their experiences with that phenomenon. The qualitative researcher aims to get a deep understanding of these views of the participants, and so this study employed accounts and drawings as data collection tools. The data were then content analyzed.

Findings
Upon data analysis, two major themes emerged being the benefits and challenges associated with PjBL. The benefits can be further divided into academic and non-academic benefits. The major academic benefit was that the project approach allowed students to achieve a deeper and more meaningful understanding of the subject matter whereas the non-academic benefits include enhanced communication and negotiation skills, time management, creative and critical thinking skills. The major challenges faced by the students were related to time management and getting along with each other in groups.

Originality/value
The research problem is a scarcely explored area in Pakistani English language teaching in higher education. Moreover, the use of student drawings as a data collection method is an unusual method for this research problem.


This is the first study to compare the PCA and ICP approaches to 3D face recognition, and to propose a local region approach coping with expression variation in 3D face recognition. A new algorithm for 3D face recognition is proposed for handling expression variation. It uses a surface registration-based technique for 3D face recognition. The proposed method uses a fully automatic approach to use to initialize the 3D matching. Results are presented for gallery and probe datasets of 355 subjects imaged in 3D, with significant time lapse between gallery and probe images of a given subject yielding 3,205 3D models. We find that an ICP-based method performs better than a PCA-based method. The evaluation results show that our proposed new algorithm substantially improves performance in the case of varying facial expression. We also examined subject factors in the proposed method on 3D face models by age and gender.


Respiratory distress syndrome, previously called hyaline membrane disease, is a common cause of morbidity and mortality associated with premature delivery. The incidence and severity of respiratory distress syndrome generally increase with decreasing gestational age at birth, and its occurrence in the at-term baby is rare. We report a male newborn who was born via elective cesarean section at 38 4/7 weeks gestation. After birth, he subsequently had severe respiratory distress typical of surfactant deficiency severe enough to be managed with ventilator support. He showed no evidence of intrapartum infection or aspiration. After two doses of surfactant were instilled via endotracheal tube, his respiratory condition showed dramatic improvement and recovered fully without complication before discharge. We report this case to emphasize the possibility that a term baby may develop surfactant-deficient respiratory failure and to suggest that elective delivery before 39 weeks gestation should be undertaken only for good medical reasons. In addition, the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome in full-term neonates is discussed.


A long-term dry-wet cycle will cause changes in the internal structure of the loess, which will affect its permeability coefficient and slope properties. In this paper, through the dry-wet cycle test, the changes of permeability coefficient P value, porosity and dry density of undisturbed loess and remodelled loess under the action of dry-wet cycle are studied. Under the condition of dry-wet cycle, the permeability coefficient of undisturbed loess in high-risk slope decreases, and the permeability coefficient of remoulded loess increases. Remoulding the original loess of high-risk slopes due to soil erosion is more likely to cause gullies and internal erosion, accelerating the occurrence of original loess landslides and collapse of high-risk slopes.


An extreme-point symmetric mode decomposition (ESMD) method is proposed to improve the Hilbert–Huang Transform (HHT) through the following prospects: (1) The sifting process is implemented by the aid of 1, 2, 3 or more inner interpolating curves, which classifies the methods into ESMD_I, ESMD_II, ESMD_III, and so on; (2) The last residual is defined as an optimal curve possessing a certain number of extreme points, instead of general trend with at most one extreme point, which allows the optimal sifting times and decompositions; (3) The extreme-point symmetry is applied instead of the envelop symmetry; (4) The data-based direct interpolating approach is developed to compute the instantaneous frequency and amplitude. One advantage of the ESMD method is to determine an optimal global mean curve in an adaptive way which is better than the common least-square method and running-mean approach; another one is to determine the instantaneous frequency and amplitude in a direct way which is better than the Hilbert-spectrum method. These will improve the adaptive analysis of the data from atmospheric and oceanic sciences, informatics, economics, ecology, medicine, seismology, and so on.


This paper presents the digital algorithm for on-line dynamic compensation of the secondary voltage of a capacitive voltage transformer (CVT). The adopted CVT model together with the assumed simplifications is given first. Next, the compensating algorithm based on digital inversion of the CVT transfer function is derived. Frequency domain analysis and quantitative evaluation of the compensation follow. The ATP-EMTP simulations are included that show the improvement of the measurement of protective criteria quantities as a result of dynamic compensation of a CVT.


To explore flexural behaviors of ecological high ductility cementitious composites (Eco-HDCC) for bridge deck link slab under severe service conditions, interaction experimental schemes of freeze-thaw cycles and carbonation were designed. Factors such as interaction cycle and preloading stress level were considered. Carbonation front and pore structure of Eco-HDCC were analyzed. The results show that ultimate flexural strength and ultimate deflection of Eco-HDCC decrease when interaction cycle or preloading stress level increases. Besides, all flexural load-deflection curves exhibit four stages: linear elastic, non-linear, deflection hardening and deflection softening stage. In addition, carbonation front of Eco-HDCC increases when interaction cycle or preloading stress level increases. With the same depth range in Eco-HDCC, pore structure deteriorates as interaction cycle increases, and deterioration degree of pores decreases as depth increases. For general consideration, after interaction cycles of 15, flexural property of Eco-HDCC with preloading stress level of 0.5 can be adopted for bridge deck link slab design with the aim to safety.


Procurement is the intermediary between external suppliers and internal functions that create and deliver value for citizens. Contract administration is about the follow-up of suppliers who deliver goods and/or services to the public sector in order to maximize the value of these interactions. Lack of contract follow-up is, according to Meld. St. 22 (2018–2019), one of the most important reasons why the expected effect of public procurement is not realized. This chapter examines in more detail how contract follow-up takes place in public procurement. This is done through three focus areas and a qualitative exploratory study with seven qualitative interviews. In the interviews, the purchasers describe that they have too little capacity for contract follow-up, have deficient and poorly integrated IT systems and that the contract follow-up is characterized by structural and control orientation. The implication is that public enterprises should ensure that the enterprises have the capacity for contract follow-up and map out which success factors can contribute to better contract follow-up.


Under simultaneous horizontal and vertical loading , the pile-soil interaction belongs to a issue of three-dimension . Based on the synthetical studying , an analysis to piles under simultaneous horizontal and vertical loading is advanced by the finite element-finite layer method in which the layered transversely isotropic and elastic half-space soil model is applied and the influence of P-Δ effect on internal force of piles is considered in this paper .


A number of credit derivative product companies (CDPC) have been launched over the past few years, but the well known undercapitalization of their balance sheets has made potential hedgers skeptical about a CDPC's ability to cover its obligations as a protection seller. We argue that the availability of tradeable CDS protection on a CDPC will provide credit investors with a menu of hedging strategies that would not be available otherwise. Using a derivative pricing approach, we then propose a few exercises in comparative statics to study the determinants of the cost of CDS protection on a hypothetical CDPC specializing in senior corporate risk. Our findings contain some interesting implications about a CDPC's optimal disclosure policy.


As the guest molecule, compound sodium nitrophenolate were intercalated into the host molecules, magnesium aluminum layered double hydroxides (Mg-Al-LDH), by using the methods of titration coprecipi- tation method and ion exchange, respectively. The structures of the obtained samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and IR specturm. The results show that the compound sodium nitrophenolate mole- cule can be inserted into the layers of hydrotalcite using the above two methods and the intercalation effi- ciency of the titration coprecipitation method was better than the method of ion exchange.


The present article focuses its attention on Comprehensive English course,which is generally considered as the most important basic course in the curriculum for English majors,and advocates the adoption of the Eclectic Approach in the teaching of the subject.On the basis of her adoption of the teaching method,the author proves that with synthesis and flexibility at its core,the Eclectic Approach is effective in activating learner motivation,improving learners' comprehensive language skills and establishing a harmonious and lively classroom instruction.


Dr. Theresa Kindler: Ehrmann, who found that 15 of his 17 patients were syphilitic, thought at first that livedo racemosa was a manifestation of tertiary syphilis, ozcurring in the second or third decade after infection. He held the view that deposits of spirochetes in the endothelia of the deep vessels provoked an obliterating endarteritis which led to subsequent stasis in and dilatation of the capillaries. Other authors, however, found the condition in tuberculosis, cardiac and circulatory disease, alcoholism, or provoked by frostbite and frequent exposure to cold. Ehrmann himself later modified his opinion in that he said that various noxre and systemic disease may cause similar vascular changes. The disease is, however, still referred to as tertiary syphilis in recent editions of various textbooks.


A micromagnetic model with realistic grain configuration (planar Voronoi cells) is developed to simulate perpendicular magnetic recording media. The model is applied to an experimental Co/Pd superlattice film. The calculated perpendicular hysteresis loop exhibits a coercivity of 6560 Oe, in approximate agreement with the experimental value. It is found that the coercivity is largely invariant to grain irregularity, but the initial switching field depends greatly on grain size uniformity for ideally oriented material. In particular, an assumption of uniform grains produces a knee in the hysteresis loop that is not found with the more realistic Voronoi grains or in experiment.


This study presents development of an expert system for process and die design of hot extrusion through square dies. The design of extrusion dies is still an art rathere than a science with increasing complexity of shape and thinness of section. Therefore, most of the die design is still dependent on personal judgement, intuition and experience. The objective of this study is to develop an expert system which includes a rule base system extracted from literatures and experts in the extrusion industry. The system also includes finite element simulation program. The developed system is effectively used to design two types of processes and dies with lead time and trial extrusion.


The number of Islamic financial technology (fintech) study growsalong with technological advancement and fintech itself. Thisstudy aims to review the studies on Islamic fintech publishedin the journals indexed by Scopus and Web of Science using asystematic literature review approach. As shown in the frameworkproposed in this study, we found five elements of the entireobserved papers. The customer has been the most discussedelement among researchers of Islamic fintech. As Islamic fintech isstill in the early stage of development, no study in our observeddocuments discusses operations. It is one of the essential elementsto be investigated, seeing the dynamic of the business-operatingenvironment. This paper contributes to the literature by providingan up-to-date review. It is among the first reviews on this subjectusing the major academic databases and offering a more holisticframework than previous studies.JEL Classification: F65, Z12


For an asymptotic $\ell_1$ space $X$ with a basis $(x_i)$ certain asymptotic $\ell_1$ constants, $\delta_\alpha (X)$ are defined for $\alpha <\omega_1$. $\delta_\alpha (X)$ measures the equivalence between all normalized block bases $(y_i)_{i=1}^k$ of $(x_i)$ which are $S_\alpha$-admissible with respect to $(x_i)$ ($S_\alpha$ is the $\alpha^{th}$-Schreier class of sets) and the unit vector basis of $\ell_1^k$. This leads to the concept of the delta spectrum of $X$, $\Delta (X)$, which reflects the behavior of stabilized limits of $\delta_\alpha (X)$. The analogues of these constants under all renormings of $X$ are also defined and studied. We investigate $\Delta (X)$ both in general and for spaces of bounded distortion. We also prove several results on distorting the classical Tsirelson's space $T$ and its relatives.


In order to realize energy saving and emission reduction of bridge crane, potential energy recovery technology is applied to lifting mechanism of bridge crane. On the basis of analyzing the working principle of the accumulator, the potential energy recovery system model is created. The simulation analysis is studied by using simulation software SimulationX, and reasonable potential energy recovery system parameters is got. The results show that when the load mass is IOT, the displacement of variable pump/motor is 230mL/r, the speed is 1450r/min, and the accumulator capacity is 63L, the recovered gravitational potential energy accounted for 17.76%. The potential energy of bridge crane hoisting mechanism is proved the feasibility of recycling technology, which provides a theoretical basis for the next physical prototype test and future engineering application.


The laboratories play an important role in cultivating persons in the universities. For the sake of cultivating innovative talents, we must take some new measures to enhance the construction and management of universities' laboratories.


the U.S. consul to Bordeaux—an appointment he apparently received on the condition that he keep his mouth shut. Only in his family life did he, following the near breakdown of his marriage, finally find happiness. Tourgée's struggle for color-blind radical individualism appears actually to have backfired in certain ways. Elliott describes how Tourgée's provocative arguments in Plessy impelled the Supreme Court to employ broad reasoning that undergirded segregationist legal decisions for the next half century. He also discusses how the style and approach of A Fool's Errand inspired a wave of influential anti-Reconstruction literature, emblematized by Thomas Dixon's The Clansman (the basis for D. W. Griffith's notorious film The Birth of a Nation). Nonetheless, Elliott concludes that Tourgée ultimately had an important positive influence by keeping alive a "tradition[ ] of racial egalitarianism . . . that ha[s] shaped our understanding of citizenship, and concepts of the self, in ways not yet fully appreciated" (316). Indeed, the celebration of Tourgée at the 1905 founding of the Niagara Movement, a progenitor of the NAACP, suggests that despite his many disappointments, Tourgée's efforts on behalf of racial justice were ultimately not in vain.


In this study, 208 patients without clinical signs of cardiovascular disease and a history of venous thrombosis in different parts of the city of Tabriz, Iran were studied with different races. In this study, the distribution of the mutant allele MTHFR C677T in different breeds of Tabriz, Iran has been investigated and the results are compared with studies. To assess the distribution of polymorphisms of MTHFR C677T, one of the genetic factors of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), Of Tabriz in reverse hybridization method was used for the rapid and accurate diagnosis. By Multiplex PCR and hybridization analysis on the test strip tape parallel lines oligonucleotide probes containing allele-specific. The allele frequencies of MTHFR C677T mutation in the 0/24 investigation with results reported by Gulbahar and colleagues from Iran (0/24) corresponded perfectly. The frequency of MTHFR C677T mutation in less than Europe, but most of the frequency reported from India and most countries in the region.


Machine for stack and take materials,it's an important equipment of deposit coal workshop in Coking Plant. It takes the task on dispatching and unloading all kinds of coal, also it is used to select and transport the coal. It is a big equipment which works for 24 hours a day. Whether it runs or stops, determines the producing of several big factories such as Coking and Power Plants, so it is very important. In 2005 we installed three hydraulic pressure Machines for stack and take materials, but only a year later, they conked out (when the hang wall falls down, it can't raise again) one by one since August 2006. we resolved the problem by analyzing and get rid of the malfunction, so that the yield can be ensured to go on.


The contemporary parallel I/O software stack is complex due to a large number of configurations for tuning I/O performance. Without a proper configuration, I/O becomes a performance bottleneck. As high performance computing (HPC) is moving towards exascale, poor I/O performance has a significant impact on the runtime of large-scale simulations producing massive amounts of data. In this paper, we focus on developing a framework for tuning parallel I/O configurations automatically. This auto-tuning framework first traces high-level I/O accesses and analyzes data write patterns. Based on these patterns and historically available tuning parameters for similar patterns, the framework selects best performing configurations at runtime. If previous history for a pattern is unavailable, the framework initiates model-based training to acquire efficient set of tuning parameters. Our framework includes a runtime system to apply the selected configurations using dynamic linking, without the need for changing application source code. In this paper, we describe this framework and evaluate it using multiple I/O kernels extracted from real applications and demonstrate substantial I/O performance improvement.


Dear EJCI Editor, The recent report1 presenting a thorough analysis of Ludwig van Beethoven's genome has made headlines in scientific and nonscientific journals. The famous composer is known to have suffered, among other ailments, from cirrhosis, and the study by Begg et al.1 adds a few exciting new details to this picture. In brief, the authors showed that Beethoven carried a combination of genetic variants (i.e. HFE p.His63Asp and p.Cys282Tyr as well as PNPLA3 p.I148M) that rendered his liver particularly vulnerable to external noxae, here iron, alcohol and caloric overload.2 Hence, regular alcohol consumption, probably combined with rich food over many years is likely to represent the major cause for his chronic liver disease. Interestingly, Begg et al.1 also performed a metagenomic analysis of Beethoven's hair locks and found that in the last months of his life, he might have suffered from hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Although the mass media and the authors of the report1 seem to have focused on the analysis of Beethoven's genome, the detection of HBV infection should not be overseen as it might be highly relevant to Beethoven's death, but also to our everyday liver patients. Apparently, the composer experienced a first episode of jaundice 6 years before his death in 1827, possibly a first sign of decompensation. The fact that it took a couple of decades of chronic alcohol consumption on the background of his highrisk genotype to develop clinical liver disease shows the organ's enormous regenerative capacity. This proverbial resilience has been known for a long time and features prominently in the Prometheus saga from 800 BC, which Beethoven refers to in his ballet 'The Creatures of Prometheus Op. 43', composed in 1801. One could speculate that during the last months of his life, the composer might have suffered from acuteonchronic liver failure (ACLF) caused by the HBV infection on top of his alcoholinduced progressive liver damage. This additional insult precipitated the lethal deterioration of liver function (Figure 1). ACLF is a new disease entity,3 defined as acute liver failure in patients with chronic liver diseases. Bajaj et al.4 described ACLF 'as a potentially reversible condition in patients with chronic liver disease with or without cirrhosis that is associated with the potential for multiple organ failure and mortality within 3 months in the absence of treatment of the underlying liver disease, liver support, or liver transplantation'. The data available in Begg's paper1 are not sufficient to determine if Beethoven suffered from multiple organ failure or only liver failure. Of note, acute viral infections have been identified as precipitating events of ACLF.5,6 In terms of hepatitis B, acute infection is rare but can result in rapid dysfunction of preinjured liver, and flares of chronic HBV infection have been described as triggers of ACLF.7 Patients with HBVACLF have been reported to suffer from high shortterm mortality,8 in line with the data from the metagenomic analyses revealing the viral infection, and Beethoven's rapid demise.


The main objective of this study is to qualitatively evaluate the degree of implementation of actions and educational activities for health facilities in the F


Mutrashmari (Renal Calculi) is very common disorder. This distressing urinary disorder affects around 5-7 million people in India [11]. The chances of recurrence are always high and the surgery having disadvantage of high cost. The available treatment in modern science is only conservative and surgical in this present study an effort was made to evaluate the role of Varunadi Kwath in Mutrashmari. The main aim of this particular study was inclined towards the disintegration, dissolution, dislodgement and expulsion of renal calculi. The contents of Varunadi Kwath are easily available, economical and are easy to administer, which are having Anti-inflammatory, Diuretic and Antilithic properties. A case of renal calculi with uterine fibroid was diagnosed and the treatment was given for a period of 9 months. The size of the calculus was studied by periodic ultrasonography; the symptoms Mutrakruchrata (Dysuria), Shula (Pain in abdomen), Sadaha Mutrata (Burning micturition) are significantly reduced within less than 45 days and total expulsion of calculi in less than 180 days.


Retardation of language development or ar t i c u l a t o r y proficiency i s characteristic of children with s p e c i f i c organic or i n t e l l e c t u a l d e f i c i t s . I t i s recognized that the moderately retarded preschool youngster i s especially susceptible to delays i n language acquisition probably as a concomitant attribute of general i n t e l l e c t u a l deficiency. The l i t e r a t u r e of learning and c h i l d development documents and highlights the s i g n i f i c a n t growth experienced by the infant and preschool youngster long before he f i r s t enters school. The advent of preschool educational opportunities for exceptional children can be expected to prevent many of the d e b i l i t a t i n g results associated with general i n t e l l e c t u a l mental retardation. Research has demonstrated that much i s to be gained through early childhood compensatory education. The evidence gained from programs of intervention i n the area of language has e f f e c t i v e l y shown that intensive stimulation i n school aged mildly and moderately retarded children results i n gains i n language performance. S i m i l a r l y , investigations of language improvement i n younger deprived children have had positive r e s u l t s . Consequently, two important facts are to be recognized: (a) I t i s possible to effect positive change i n language a b i l i t y of young children whose i n t e l l e c t u a l functioning i s assumed capable of normalcy. (b) I t i s possible to effect positive change i n language a b i l i t y of older children whose i n t e l l e c t u a l capacities have been lim i t e d by organic or environmental factors.


Abstract We discuss statistical inference of a software reliability model which incorporates the operational profile of the software. In this model the instantaneous software failure rate depends on both the number of remaining faults as well as on the operational state of the software system, which is assumed to change over time according to a Markov process. Statistical inference is performed by means of the theory of linear filtering, using the so- called innovations method and martingale theory. We discuss inference at two different information levels, namely those defined by observing the failure process alone as well as both the failure and operational processes. Software reliability prediction based on the observed data is considered as well, and we provide an explicit formula for software reliability conditional on the data.


This is, I think, as vigorous and provocative a piece of philosophical | writing as has appeared in English for some time. Its genre is that of the i Prolegomena zu einer jeden kiinftigen Metaphysik: its claim is to have estabj lished a "basis for an anti-metaphysical philosophy"—a basis of opinion for f those, like the author, "who have cast loose from the anchorage of religion 'j and traditional belief, and find no satisfaction in any of the contemporary 1> philosophies, popular or academic" (p. 9). Its position may be roughly 5 described as a variant of personalist pluralism. It has affinities, not necessarily ; conscious, with some modern variants of pragmatism. The author's thesis presents a front of consistence and clarity: nevertheless, on close consideration I find it hard to be sure just where the argument (as distinguished from asseveration) begins, how it develops and hangs together, and what it con. eludes. This may be my fault. f Philosophy, Mr. Coates holds, aims not at Truth, which is the peculiar | ignis fatuus of the philosopher; but at a "reasonable Point of View" to be S arrived at by criticism of common beliefs and opinions. As to both end and 5 means this is unoriginal enough. So too, if more modish, is the qualification 5 of this criticism as concerned fundamentally with the use and meaning of i words. The reasonable point of view is that which is linguistically consistent. * Such consistency, however, is not that of a 'mathematical Logic' (another i ignis fatuus) but that of 'language-thought' which "embodies the whole ? range of human thought, feeling and activity" (p. 50). I fail to find any % illumination, however, on the problems of language and meaning in this j hyphen; nor do I see ground for believing that the 'reasonable' can be pur,{ sued once truth is repudiated. I Philosophy as a 'Point of View' is sharply distinguished from metaphysics '; —by which he ostensibly means any and every kind of transcendence, ; every kind of 'realism' (except his own which, like the schoolboy seeking i protection by crossing his fingers, he supposes saved by his use of the words :; 'exist' and 'actual' instead of 'real'), every form of hypostatization, every j assertion of a supernatural Order, a Universe or Cosmos. In fact, I have ' concluded, he means by "metaphysics" philosophy which he does not like, -j and by "philosophy" metaphysics which he does like. ; This violent anti-metaphysicism runs—a veritable dcrasez I'infdme— through the whole work: and like all such bellicosities, it leads to odd misperceptions and extremes. "It is astonishing," he writes, "that . . . men of the highest intellectual attainments . . . cannot see, what should be plain to anyone with a trained critical intelligence, that the whole structure of metaphysics is built up by the method of ambiguity, that ambiguity is to metaphysics, as mathematics is to the physical sciences" (p. i n ) . Two further obiter dicta: " . . . present-day educated opinion . . . rejects equally the claims of revealed religion and metaphysical philosophy . . ." (p. 451), and "the tendency of the bulk of present-day philosophy in England seems to be to support orthodoxy in politics and religion rather than to attack it" (p. 15). From these, taken together, we may validly draw the interesting conclusion that most contemporary English philosophers are (or seem) uneducated.


Abstract The influence of wind waves on the momentum transfer (wind stress) between the atmosphere and sea surface was studied using new measured data from the RASEX experiment and other datasets compiled by Donelan et al. Results of the data analysis indicate that errors in wind friction velocity u∗ of about ±10% make it difficult to conclude on the trend in zch using measured data from a particular dataset. This problem is solved by combining different field data together. This gives a trend of decreasing zch with wave age, expressed as: zch = 1.89(cp/u∗)−1.59. Furthermore, it is shown that calculations of the wind friction velocities using the wave-spectra-dependent expression of Hansen and Larsen agrees quite well with measured values during RASEX. It also gives a trend in Charnock parameter consistent with that found by combining the field data. Last, calculations using a constant Charnock parameter (0.018) also give very good results for the wind friction velocities at the RASEX site.


The Anti-Japanese War period was an important stage in which the Chinese Communist Party correctly understood the religious issues and fully carried out the religious work. Whether in the Anti-Japanese democratic base areas, or in the Kuomintang-controlled areas and enemy-occupied areas, the Chinese Communist Party has formulated religious policies suited to the Anti-Japanese War, upheld and expanded the Anti-Japanese National United Front, and actively guided religions to adapt with the Anti-Japanese War, which has promoted the process of the Anti-Japanese War's victory, accumulated positive theoretical achievements and practical experiences, and provided reference for the Chinese Communist Party's religious work in the future.


The recent discovery of hexagonal-close-packed (hcp) Au nanoparticles, crystallized at the tips of Ge nanowires following vapor–liquid–solid (VLS) growth, prompts interest in the mechanism of metastable phase formation in the Au catalyst. The equilibrium structure of Au is face-centered cubic, and observation of hexagonal close-packing in Au is very rare. Here we report on eutectic melting of Au nanocatalysts in the transmission electron microscope (TEM), followed by rapid quenching, and subsequent in situ annealing at intermediate temperatures. A metastable hexagonal Au–Ge alloy phase solidifies during quenching of the Au–Ge liquid in the TEM, and it is a likely precursor to formation of metastable hcp Au during nanowire post-VLS cooling. A novel aspect of the hcp Au phase formation is the rejection of quenched-in Ge from the alloy during low-temperature in situ TEM annealing, while maintaining the metastable hcp crystal structure, indicating that this is the likely pathway for hcp formation following na...


We discuss several concepts to keep track of small relative angular motions between a reference point and a remote platform when the two are located at separate points on a flexible structure. The goal is to accurately transfer knowledge of the orientation of the remote platform relative to the reference point. First-order equations and order-of-magnitude calculations are presented for image centroiding and interference fringe projection approaches for space station applications.


PR-text is a complex, from the semantic point of view, formation, due to its dual nature. The PR-text is presented in two semantic guises – as the meaning, specified by social and professional traditions of oral culture, and as the sense, defined by the author of the text. One of the main properties of the text is the ability to transmit and contain information. The text is a complex formation, incorporating, at the same time existing in its structure, linguistic, logic, speech, cognitive, stylistic, expressive and other subsystems. For a deeper understanding of the semantics of the PR text, it is necessary to define the semantic field of the text, its content, how the elements of the language system and the formal properties of the PR-text interact.


• Heterophoria is the relative deviation of the visual axes after breaking fusion. • Nowadays, in clinical practice heterophoria can be measured using subjective methods (influenced by patient and examiner) or objective methods (influenced by examiner). • An objective method based on the Alternating Cover Test has been implemented in a prototype (Figure 1) of a fully autonomous and automated vision analyzer (Eye and Vision Analyzer, EVA, DAVALOR, Spain), those eliminating examiner influence. Results:


IN RESPONSE: Dr. McIntyre and colleagues raise several important points. First, we agree that, according to the Cochrane risk-of-bias framework, studies are classified as having high, low, or unclear risk. Studies are categorized as having unclear risk if they lack information to classify them as either low or high risk. In our review, the moderate-risk category reflects studies with unclear risk. We believe that the lack of patient blinding in the included studies was unlikely to have influenced the major end points evaluated (such as mortality and left ventricular ejection fraction). Furthermore, blinded operators analyzed the images in 5 of the 6 included trials. Second, Dr. McIntyre and colleagues rightly note that the results of our meta-analysis were mainly driven by the CASTLE-AF trial. They specifically cite the limitation of using the postrandomization attrition rates and somewhat low Fragility Index score of 11 to achieve the prespecified primary end point (1). We share this concern and acknowledged this critical limitation in our review. However, the Fragility Index is a tool for binary analysis and not an accurate method for interpreting continuous variable and time-to-event outcomes as reported in the CASTLE-AF trial (2). Instead, it merely showcases 1 minor aspect of sensitivity analysis at the expense of other robust features of the design and assessment of quality of randomized trials. Furthermore, the Fragility Index score is inherently subjective because it applies only to primary outcomes with no specific cutoff to classify a study result as fragile. This limitation is reflected in Walsh and associates' review, which analyzed 399 clinical trials from high-impact medical journals and reported a median Fragility Index score of 8; a total of 25% of trials had a score of 3 or lower, and 53% had a score less than the number of patients lost to follow-up (3). Finally, Dr. McIntyre and colleagues note that the evidence for catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation in patients with HF should be judged to be of low quality according to the GRADE framework because of very serious risk of bias among the included trials. We disagree because the GRADE framework of categorizing studies involves substantial subjectivity. Furthermore, additional independent analysis by 2 investigators (M.K.T. and J.G.) that included the 6 randomized controlled trials revealed moderate risk of bias. Lack of allocation concealment, selective outcome reporting, and design-specific issues are some reasons for this categorization.


The speed at which the US economy has recovered from recessions ranges from months to years. We propose a model incorporating innovation network, production network, and cross-sectional shock and show that their interactions jointly explain large variations in the recovery speed across recessions in the US.

Besides the production linkages, firms learn insights on production from each other through the innovation network. We show that shock's sectoral distribution plays a crucial role in its amplification and persistence when the innovation network takes a low-rank structure. % Under a low-rank innovation network, the shock's impact on future growth is greatly amplified and persistent when the shock follows the sectors' importance vector in the innovation network. In contrast, the amplification becomes weak, and the shock's impact decreases exponentially when the shock follows other directions.

We estimate a state-space model of the cross-sectional technology shock and document a set of new stylized facts on the structure of the innovation network and sectoral distribution of the shock for the US. We show that the specific low-rank network structure and the time-varying sectoral distribution of the shock can well explain the large variation in the recovery speed across recessions in the US. Finally, to emphasize the prevalence of the channel, we explore the application of the theory in asset pricing.


Rear heat shield for the fuel nozzle tip includes an annular shield wall, an annular shield flange extending radially outwardly from the rear end of the shield wall, surrounds the conical section, so that the axial gap is defined between the shield flanges and a annular baffle flange disposed baffle flange includes a radially outer rim extending from here axially forward, further backward heat shield, through the baffle flange, an air flow towards the shield wall a plurality of impingement cooling holes oriented to send. .The


The perceived inability of the Skyrme model to reproduce pseudovector pion-baryon coupling has come to be known as the ``Yukawa problem.'' In this talk, we review the complete solution to this problem. The solution involves a new configuration known as the rotationally improved Skyrmion, or ``RISKY,'' in which the hedgehog structure is modified by a small quadrupole distortion. We illustrate our ideas both in the Skyrme model and in a simpler model with a global U(1) symmetry.


In this study, sexual dimorphism in pigeons was investigated. Rensch's rule was evaluated across pigeon breeds. Body weight, body length, beak length, wingspan, tail length, and tarsus length were used for the analysis. We have divided the breeds in the five groups (form, frills and owls, tumbler and rollers, homer and highflyer, feral). The allometric relation in the traits between female and male measures were analyzed. The measure of sexual size dimorphism was measured for each trait as a simple male size divided by female size (Sexual Size Index, SSI). On average across traits, male birds have higher values than female birds, both across breed groups and overall. No deviation from isometric allometry can be observed except the tail length. No trends towards logarithmic female values according to the SSI could be identified. According to the results, the rules of Rensch for pigeon breeds are rejected. Sexual dimorphism exists between breeds and traits, mainly in favor of the male birds. In most cases, allometric relationships between breeds change, as do traits.


ABSTRACT Sport-for-development organizations (SFDs) require capacity to meet their goals and sustain their programming. However, capacity building may need to be imagined differently from other nonprofit organizations, given the distinctiveness of the SFD context. Using Millar and Doherty's (2016) process model of capacity, we analyze the capacity-building process in an SFD context through a network of organizations engaged in a structured capacity-building program, seeking to understand the role that nuances in the context play to enable and/or constrain from the capacity-building process. Data collected from focus groups, individual interviews, field notes and workshop document(s) revealed that existing human resources capacity and passion for the cause both enabled and constrained capacity building. Furthermore, the burden of building capacity for sport and capacity for developing programming problematized the process. This suggests that capacity building in an SFD context is not a one-size-fits-all proposition and that organizations can benefit from tailored capacity-building initiatives that meet individual needs. HIGHLIGHTS Existing organizational capacity and passion for the cause both enabled and constrain capacity building in a sport-for-development context. The dual burden of building capacity for sport and capacity for development programming problematizes the capacity-building process. Capacity building in an SFD context is not a one-size-fits-all proposition, and organizations can benefit from more tailored initiatives.


Abstract : The report describes an experimental program performed to generate technology on high temperature sensor concepts for small gas turbines. Major emphasis was placed on the definition of material systems needed for transducers with long life, good reliability, and fast response for sensing turbine inlet temperatures in the range of 2200 to 2500F with transients to 3000F. The technology related to three types of sensors was considered; thermocouples, resistive devices, and radiation pyrometers. Inherent material problems with resistive devices at temperatures above 1600F limited the experimental program on this concept. Thermocouple and radiation sensors were studied extensively, resulting in several promising approaches. Two types of thermocouple probes were found to have potential application to turbine engines. A proposed protected thermocouple junction offers best reliability and durability, but has relatively slow response to changes in gas temperature. A suggested exposed Pt- Rh junction has much improved response rate; however, the reliability and durability are much less than the protected junction. Five commercial radiation pyrometers were evaluated and one concept chosen as having, by far, the greatest potential for application to turbine engines. The sensor employs a silicon p-n junction photovoltaic detector. The sensor demonstrated microsecond response, good accuracy, and good reliability as long as the environmental temperature for the silicon chip was kept below 250F and the window was maintained clean. A unique air-collimator lens was devised which acts as an interface between the turbine gas path and the sensor window.


The effect of the heptapeptide hormone Ang‐(1‐7) on microvascular fibrosis in rats with Ang II‐induced hypertension was investigated, since vascular fibrosis/remodeling plays a prominent role in hypertension‐induced end‐organ damage and Ang‐(1‐7) inhibits vascular growth and fibrosis.


The evaluation of academic journals has political criterion, vocational criterion, editing criterion and publication criterion. Academic evaluation has three requirements: new viewpoints, new methods and new data. The two cover each other. In the academe, the common phenomenon of judging an article by the journal publishing it is logically wrong. It dissimilates the functions of journal evaluation and academic evaluation. How to integrate them organically and getting scientific and rational evaluation conclusions are the issues that the academe and academic journals should attach great importance to. At present, there are some problems in academic atmosphere and academic criteria. Only when academic evaluation and the evaluation of academic journals go out of the mistaken area, can their original functions return.


In this paper, we consider the low‐rank matrix completion problem under general bases, which intends to recover a structured matrix via a linear combination of prespecified bases. Existing works focus primarily on orthonormal bases; however, it is often necessary to adopt nonorthonormal bases in some real applications. Thus, there is a great need to address the feasibility of some popular estimators in such situations. We present several reasonable and widely applicable assumptions that cover the well‐cultivated orthonormal systems as a special case. Under these assumptions, it is proved that the least squares estimator with the nuclear norm regularization is capable of achieving successful recovery with high probability. The error bounds under the Frobenius norm are established for recovery of both exact and approximate low‐rank matrices. Theoretical findings are further corroborated via simulations.


The article is devoted to the importance and necessity of personnel development audit. It is noted that the audit of personnel development is one of the main areas of personnel audit, which plays a special role in providing the company with highly qualified personnel and is the key to financial success of the enterprise. Conducting an audit of enterprise development has a positive effect on the efficiency of the enterprise and helps to obtain significant benefits. The definition of the essence and content of the personnel development audit is presented. It is noted that the audit of personnel development is a process of assessing the development of personnel, which is carried out on the basis of the use of modern personnel technologies. The main directions of research that need to be carried out in order to conduct an audit of personnel development at the enterprise are identified. The main objectives of the audit of personnel development at the enterprise are considered. The audit of personnel development is presented and characterized from the standpoint of three main aspects, namely: organizational and technological, socio-psychological and economic. Organizational and technological aspect is aimed at checking personnel and financial documentation in order to analyze staff turnover, determine the dynamics of absenteeism, absenteeism and the degree of job satisfaction. Socio-psychological aspect of the audit of personnel development is to study the state of labor relations in the enterprise, identify the main factors of staff motivation and find reserves to improve the activities of the enterprise. The economic aspect of personnel audit allows to determine the level of effectiveness of measures to improve staff development. Especially important in the audit of personnel development is the consideration and study of strategies and plans for personnel development of the enterprise. The main problems that arise during the implementation of training programs at the enterprise are identified and characterized. Measures to ensure quality and increase the efficiency of staff development at the enterprise are presented.


In this paper, by making use of Green's identity for double integral, we establish some perturbed Ostrowski type inequalities for functions of two independent variables de…ned on closed and bounded convex subsets of the plane R2: Some examples for rectangles and disks are also provided. 1. Introduction In the following, consider D a closed and bounded convex subset of R. De…ne AD := Z Z D dxdy; the area of D and (xD; yD) the centre of mass for D; where xD := 1 AD Z Z D xdxdy; yD := 1 AD Z Z D ydxdy: Consider the function of two variables f = f (x; y) and denote by @f @x the partial derivative with respect to the variable x and @f @y the partial derivative with respect to the variable y: In the recent paper [6] we obtained, among others, the following Ostrowski type integral inequality for double integral: Theorem 1. Assume that f : D ! C is di¤erentiable on D and (u; v) 2 D: Then (1.1) f (u; v) 1 AD ZZ D f (x; y) dxdy 1 AD ZZ D jx uj Z 1 0 @f @x [t (x; y) + (1 t) (u; v)] dt dxdy + 1 AD ZZ D jy vj Z 1 0 @f @y [t (x; y) + (1 t) (u; v)] dt dxdy @f @x D;1 1 AD ZZ D jx uj dxdy + @f @y D;1 1 AD ZZ D jy vj dxdy; provided @f @x D;1 := sup (z;w)2D @f @x (z; w) <1 and @f @y D;1 := sup (z;w)2D @f @y (z; w) <1: 1991 Mathematics Subject Classi…cation. 26D15. Key words and phrases. Ostrowski inequality, Hermite-Hadamard inequality, Double integral inequalities. 1 2 S. S. DRAGOMIR In particular, (1.2) f (xD; yD) 1 AD ZZ D f (x; y) dxdy 1 AD ZZ D jx xDj Z 1 0 @f @x [t (x; y) + (1 t) (xD; yD)] dt dxdy + 1 AD ZZ D jy yDj Z 1 0 @f @y [t (x; y) + (1 t) (xD; yD)] dt dxdy @f @x D;1 1 AD ZZ D jx xDj dxdy + @f @y D;1 1 AD ZZ D jy yDj dxdy: For other Ostrowski type integral inequalities for double integrals see [2]-[14]. Let @D be a simple, closed counterclockwise curve in the xy-plane, bounding a region D. Let L and M be scalar functions de…ned at least on an open set containing D. Assume L and M have continuous …rst partial derivatives. Then the following equality is well known as the Green theorem (see for instance https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green%27s_theorem) (G) Z Z D @M (x; y) @x @L (x; y) @y dxdy = I @D (L (x; y) dx+M (x; y) dy) : By applying this equality for real and imaginary parts, we can also state it for complex valued functions P and Q: Moreover, if the curve @D is described by the function r (t) = (x (t) ; y (t)) ; t 2 [a; b] ; with x, y di¤erentiable on (a; b) then we can calculate the path integral as I @D (L (x; y) dx+M (x; y) dy) = Z b a [L (x (t) ; y (t))x0 (t) +M (x (t) ; y (t)) y0 (t)] dt: In this paper we establish some perturbed Ostrowski type inequalities for functions of two independent variables de…ned on closed and bounded convex subsets of the plane R: Some examples for rectangles and disks are also provided. 2. Preliminary Facts We have: Lemma 1. If f : D ! C is di¤erentiable on the convex domain D, then for all (x; y) ; (u; v) 2 D we have the equality (2.1) f (u; v) = f (x; y) + (u x) @f @x (x; y) + (v y) @f @y (x; y) + (u x) Z 1 0 @f @x [t (u; v) + (1 t) (x; y)] @f @x (x; y) dt + (v y) Z 1 0 @f @y [t (u; v) + (1 t) (x; y)] @f @y (x; y) dt: PERTURBED OSTROWSKI TYPE INTEGRAL INEQUALITIES 3 Proof. By Taylor's multivariate theorem with integral remainder, we have (2.2) f (u; v) = f (x; y) + (u x) Z 1 0 @f @x [t (u; v) + (1 t) (x; y)] dt + (v y) Z 1 0 @f @y [t (u; v) + (1 t) (x; y)] dt for all (x; y) ; (u; v) 2 D. Since (u x) Z 1 0 @f @x [t (u; v) + (1 t) (x; y)] @f @x (x; y) dt = (u x) Z 1 0 @f @x [t (u; v) + (1 t) (x; y)] dt (u x) @f @x (x; y) and (v y) Z 1 0 @f @y [t (u; v) + (1 t) (x; y)] @f @y (x; y) dt = (v y) Z 1 0 @f @y [t (u; v) + (1 t) (x; y)] dt (v y) @f @y (x; y) ; hence by (2.2) we get the desired result (2.1). Corollary 1. With the assumptions of Lemma 1 we have (2.3) f (u; v) = 1 AD Z Z D f (x; y) dxdy + 1 AD Z Z D (u x) @f (x; y) @x + (v y) @f (x; y) @y dxdy + 1 AD Z Z D (u x) Z 1 0 @f @x [t (u; v) + (1 t) (x; y)] @f @x (x; y) dt dxdy


The powder coating of a bamboo, Lingnania chungii MCCLURE (=Bambusa chungii) was found to be a rich source of the 3-oxo pentacyclic triterpenes (25% on the recovery basis by chromatography on silica gel) which contained friedelin, arborinone and glutinone as the major components accompanied by minor amounts of α- and β-amyrenones. A simple procedure for isolation of friedelin is described. All proton and carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance signals for arborinone, friedelin and glutinone were assigned.


Micaela is a Master in Public Health candidate in Epidemiology at Texas A&M University, interested in protozoan parasitology, neglected tropical diseases, and infectious disease epidemiology. Her current research interests center around disparities in healthcare access and education, diseases of poverty, and emerging zoonotic diseases. Her education research centers around the evaluation of diversity and inclusion measures at Colleges and Schools of Public Health and the development of innovative service learning curricula.


Melasma is a common pigmentary disorder clinically characterized by symmetric light brown to bluish-gray macules and patches with irregular, sharp borders that affect cutaneous areas, particularly the face and neck. It is commonly identified in women of reproductive ages and more commonly described in darker-skinned patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI residing in high-intensity ultraviolet radiation worldwide. It causes significant cosmetic disfigurement, psychosocial stress, and embarrassment, affecting patients' quality of life.

 To evaluate the efficacy and safety of microneedling followed by tranexamic acid (TXA) cream application versus microneedling followed by tranexamic acid solution in the treatment of facial melasma.

 This prospective split-face comparative study included thirty female patients with different types of melasma, their ages ranged from 25 to 40 years. They were recruited from the Dermatology outpatient clinic of Ain Shams University Hospitals. All patients have been treated with TXA for 3 sessions; one session every month (the right side of the face was treated by microneedling followed by TXA 5 % cream while the left side of the face was treated by microneedling followed by TXA solution 5%). Additionally, the right side of the face was treated with TXA 5% cream, and the left side applied with placebo cream twice daily for 3 months. Assessment was done by Hemi Melasma Area and Severity Index score (Hemi -MASI), patients' satisfaction score, clinical digital photography, dermoscopic examination and area percentage of melanin concentration assessed by histopathological examination.

 Our findings showed significant improvement in different types of melasma regarding Hemi MASI score, patients' satisfaction score, and area percentage of melanin concentration assessed by histopathological examination by Fontana-Masson stain (FM) one month after 3rd treatment session in both sides of the face. However, a minor melasma recurrence was observed two months after 3rd treatment session on both sides of the face. Meanwhile, no significant difference was observed in the treatment response of microneedling followed by TXA cream versus microneedling followed by TXA solution one month after 1st and 2nd sessions regarding Hemi MASI score, while a significant difference was observed one month after the 3rd session.

 Topical TXA appears to be a promising therapeutic option in the treatment of melasma without serious adverse effects. Topical TXA cream, which was applied twice daily by the patient combined with microneedling sessions with TXA cream, has better results in comparison with microneedling sessions with TXA solution with placebo cream.


In developing countries, official development assistance (ODA) is generally perceived to be an alternative means to develop infrastructure. Donor countries may expect benefits such as increased construction project orders in recipient countries. However, it remains arguable whether ODA contributes to reciprocal relations between recipient and donor countries. The case of South Korea can provide empirical data given that its government has expanded the amount of ODA to encourage overseas construction business while supporting Southeast Asian countries. In this research, gross national income (GNI), gross domestic product (GDP), foreign direct investment (FDI), and construction project orders awarded by South Korean construction companies in Vietnam, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka are analyzed according to the variation of ODA awarded by South Korea. The analysis results show that the influence of ODA upon economic situation of recipient countries varies according to their economic volume and development policy. From the donor country's perspective, enhanced performance of construction business can be expected by means of cooperation with local construction business.


This book fills a critical void in the literature on the interface between African indigenous justice systems and the colonial installed African state justice system. The author examines the phenomenon of a plural justice system in contemporary Ajalli, an Igbo town of South East Nigeria with a population of about 5000. The main thrust of the book is the examination of the promises and contradictions of the two justice systems with divergent legal traditions and goals operating in Ajalli, namely the Igbo native system of justice and the Nigerian state criminal justice system.


The present investigation was undertaken to study extraction and characterization of essential oil of Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark. The extraction of essential oil from cinnamon bark was carried out by hydrodistillation method using clevenger type apparatus. Further, the obtained essential oil was characterized for chemical compounds by Gas chromatography-Mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) method. The results of GC-MS analysis identified 20 chemical compounds which included cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, α-pinene, eucalyptol, cinnamic acid, α-terpineole and other trace compounds were investigated. The cinnamon essential oil had antioxidant activity which showed 30.73% scavenged hydrogen peroxide and 15.23% scavenged nitric oxide.


OBJECTIVE
To analysis the association of apolipoprotein E (APOE) genotype with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) in northeast of China.

METHOD
The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) technique were used to detect the distribution of genotype and gene frequency of APOE alleles in 36 patients with POAG, 69 with PACG and 57 healthy subjects as control.

RESULTS
The frequency of APOE epsilon 3/epsilon 4 genotype in POAG group (41.7%)and epsilon 2/epsilon 4 in PACG group (43.5%) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that in control group (14.0% and 21.1%, respectively). The frequency of APOE epsilon 4 allele in both of POAG (37.5%) and PACG group (39.2%) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that in control group (17.5%), whereas the frequency of APOE epsilon 2 allele in POAG group (8.3%) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than that in control group (15.8%).

CONCLUSION
APOE epsilon 4 allele may be a latent risk factor in the development of primary glaucoma, but APOE epsilon 2 allele may play a protective role in POAG and warrant further investigation.


We observed optical properties of organic fluorescence materials doped DNA-CTMA and PMMA. The quantum yield in DNA-CTMA was higher than in PMMA. Amplified spontaneous emission properties of dye-doped DNA-CTMA film at ambient temperature were investigated. The narrowing of line shape and amplified spontaneous emission dependence occur at the same intensity indicates that both effects are the results of light amplification. We discussed the lasing capability by interacting DNA-CTMA.


The aim of this textbook is to give insight into the characteristics and the design of digital filters. It briefly introduces the theory of continuous-time systems and the design methods for analogue filters. It adequately covers the design of IIR filters, non-recursive filters and the effects of finite register length. I found the book readable with numerous examples and illustrations. I was particularly drawn to the explanation of techniques like oversampling and noise shaping in the latter part of the book. I am very keen to recommend this book for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. However, the price of £34.00 should have included a floppy disk or a CD for the computer routines for filter design programmes. M Sabry-Rizk


New classification of the gardening styles, based on the evolution of the natural science and main paradigm of each epoch, is proposed.


Though ordinary Russians have embraced many aspects of democratic culture, their learning to tolerate their political enemies has been the most difficult democratic lesson for many. In this article, I analyse change in political tolerance in Russia, using panel data I collected in 1996 and 1998 in a nationally representative sample of Russians. Two bodies of theory are considered to generate hypotheses about change: the conventional cross-sectional model of the aetiology of tolerance; and experiential theory, based on perceptions of the performance of both the economic and political systems. The dynamic character of the model is provided by perceptions of the performance of the economy, of the political system and of the seriousness of the crime problem in Russia. Many of my findings are unexpected. For instance, tolerance seems to beget tolerance, in the sense that, over time, those who are tolerant tend to perceive diminishing threats from their political enemies. Yet threat perceptions are sustained by perceptions of the political and economic conditions in contemporary Russia. Perceptions of the change in crime are especially important since they seem to exacerbate perceptions of political threat, thereby eroding both political tolerance and support for democratic institutions and process. Paradoxically, threat is also sustained by democratic values – those who support democratic institutions and processes are more likely to perceive threats from their political enemies, a finding peculiar to the unsettled Russian case. Thus, this analysis goes some distance towards discovering the causes of changes in both Russian tolerance and intolerance.


In the context of a general research question about the effectiveness of computer-based technologies applied to early music-harmony learning, this paper proposes a web-based tool to foster and quantitatively measure harmonic awareness in children. To this end, we have developed a web interface where young learners can listen to the leading voice of well-known music pieces and associate chords to it. During the activity, their actions can be monitored, recorded, and analyzed. An early experimentation involved 45 school teachers, whose performances have been measured in order to get user-acceptance opinions from domain experts and to determine the most suitable metrics to conduct automated performance analysis. This paper focuses on the latter aspect and proposes a set of candidate metrics to be used for future experimentation with children.


ABSTRACTThe water balance of Storglaciaren was measured during the 1984 melt season. Water input to the glacier exceeded discharge from it in late May and early June, resulting in storage of ∼ 0.5 × 106 m3 of water (∼0.16 m3/m2). From mid June until early August input and discharge were approximately inbalance, in contrast to results reported in the literature from two other glaciers. Then from mid August until the end of the melt season water was released from storage.Other measurements made on Storglaciaren and reported elsewhere suggest that subglacial cavities begin to open in mid July and reach a maximum total volume of ∼0.5 × 106 m3 in mid August. If this is the case, the initial water storage that occurs in June must be in englacial reservoirs such as porous firn and crevasses. The water may then move into subglacial storage locations later in the season.


The conjugate gradient methods are noted to be exceedingly valuable for solving large-scale unconstrained optimization problems since it needn't the storage of matrices. Mostly the parameter conjugate is the focus for conjugate gradient methods. The current paper proposes new methods of parameter of conjugate gradient type to solve problems of large-scale unconstrained optimization. A Hessian approximation in a diagonal matrix form on the basis of second and third-order Taylor series expansion was employed in this study. The sufficient descent property for the proposed algorithm are proved. The new method was converged globally. This new algorithm is found to be competitive to the algorithm of fletcher-reeves (FR) in a number of numerical experiments.


With the innovation of information technology and the development of financial industry inChina, internet and information has become the important carrier of financial industry development. Moreand more financial tools and financial products are dependent on information platform, financialinformatization gradually becomes the main development direction of China's financial sector. But due tothe slowly development of Chinese financial informatization, financial platform is imperfect, which bringsgreat difficulties for the main body to participate financial activities. In this paper, based on the currentsituation of financial informationization development in China, we explore the development problems offinancial informatization, and puts forward relevant countermeasures and measures to promote financialinformatization management level.


Abstract This paper discusses several properties of topological spaces and how they are refelected by corresponding properties of the associated semi-regularization topologies. For example a space is almost locally connected if and only if its semi-regularization is locally connected. Various separation, connectedness, covering, and mapping properties are considered.


Scalar multiplication is the time consuming operation in elliptic curve based cryptosystem. In this paper, we extend the Shamir method to improve the speed of the scalar multiplication. Instead of non-adjacent form of integers, width-mutual opposite form of the same is used for the computation. The results we obtained from the proposed method significantly improve the performance of the elliptic curve exponentiation.