bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Exploration of English Teaching for Mechanical Engineering from the View of Meta-cognitive Strategy Based on Multimedia Network
Authors: Ma Wenting
Published: February 2016

To improve the efficiency and effect of mechanical English learning, the advantages of computer-assisted learning is analyzed, and the teaching model based on Multimedia network is proposed. By means of comparing the results of the experimental teaching model, conclusions are drawn that the experimental type (ET) can stimulate students’ motivation much more than the control type (CP) can do. To elaborate the theoretical foundations of both task-based language teaching (TBLT) and computer assisted language learning (CALL) for mechanical engineering students, it shows the necessity and feasibility of TBLT based on Multimedia- Network for mechanical English. A teaching model for mechanical English is constructed which includes an experimental research in its application in teaching mechanical engineering students. The result of the experiment proves that the task-based teaching model based on multimedia network changes the students’ passive attitude in traditional teaching process and makes them more active in the class. In this case students’ interest and creativity are stimulated and their autonomous learning ability can be trained.
Physical Aspects of the Liquid Zones Thermomigration Method for Formation of Electronic Technics Materials with the Required Substructure
Authors: Blagin A.V. , Nefedova N.A. , Seredin B.M.
Published: February 2016

The paper analyzes the features of a liquid zones thermomigration process in a crystal for the formation of semiconductor materials with the required substructure, carried out in comparison with a diffusion method. The primary factors defining and accompanying the thermomigration process of liquid inclusion in a crystal are considered. The geometrical, concentration, temperature-time and other conditions at which the choice of the thermomigration effect as a local doping method is preferable are revealed and described. It is shown, that the thermomigration method possesses considerable advantages, in particular, the possibilities of decreasing doping process temperature, increasing process speed, increasing the distribution uniformity of the doping impurity and improves the crystal perfection of the doped layers. The quantitative estimations related to the revealed conditions, are illustrated with an aluminium-silicon example.
Investigation of the Raw Materials' Composition and Ratio Influence on the Structure and Properties of the Foamed Slag Glass
Authors: Yatsenko E.A. , Goltsman B.M. , Yatsenko L.A.
Published: February 2016

The composition of the foam glass based on thermal power plant’s ash-slag waste – foamed slag glass – was developed. The synthesis of the samples based on the most widespread foaming agents was conducted at various temperatures. The structure and properties of the obtained samples were defined, the relationship between the type and amount of the introduced foaming agents and changes in the structure and properties of the samples were established. The best type of foaming agent for the synthesis of foamed slag glass has been selected. The production technology for products based on foamed slag glass was developed.
Economical Ceramic Molds in Investment Casting
Authors: Znamenskij Leonid G. , Ivochkina O.V. , Varlamov Aleksey S.
Published: February 2016

Ceramic corundum molds on hydrolysed ethyl silicate solution which have insufficient inertness to poured alloys are widely used in the production of castings from reactive metals alloys. This is due to the presence of free silica, which is a strong oxidant of such alloy components as aluminium and titanium in vacuum conditions, in the form of a high content. To solve the indicated problem using aluminium-borophosphate concentrate, chemically cured with periclase, as a silica free binder of ceramic corundum molds was suggested. The use of the combination of the indicated mold materials allows not only enabling chemical inertness of the molds, but also operating the process of mold forming. The developed technology provides the acceleration of the mold manufacturing cycle in 4...6 times, the increase the strength of the mold covers, the reduction in the heat-resistant alloy casting cost. It enables significant improvement of the quality and increase of the economic efficiency of manufacturing of precision casting from reactive metals and alloys.
Computing Simulation of Casting Using Titanium Aluminide Intermetallic Alloys
Authors: Kulakov B.A. , Dubrovin V.K. , Karpinskiy A.V.
Published: February 2016

The simulation process of centrifugal casting using titanium aluminide intermetallic alloys has been described in the context of the low-pressure duct turbine blade designed for the gas-turbine engine. Initially, the preliminary theoretical calculations have been performed together with experimental casting when developing the casting production technologies. The obtained results allowed setting a range of the boundary conditions for computing simulation of pouring and solidification. ProCast the computing simulation system for the casting processes has been used. Various alternatives of the casting layout in the mold as well as the gating system configurations have been examined by means of this system. In the course of simulation process such faults have been detected as formation of shrinkages into the shroud platform and (or) blade footing; or significant decrease in technological yield when the risers’ dimensions expand or the casts’ number decreases in the mold. Considering the results of the performed computer experiments, the most efficient gating system has been ultimately defined to obtain the casts using titanium aluminide intermetallic alloys by centrifugal casting.
Environmental Aspects of Lead-Free Free-Machining Steels Production
Authors: Ryabov A.V.
Published: February 2016

The paper presents the results of comparative studies of working area air pollution during the production of three alloy steels containing bismuth and calcium as machinability-enhancing additives: AVTs40Kh13 (0.4 %C + 13 %Cr + Bi + Ca), AVTs14Kh17N2 (0.14 %C + 17 %Cr + 2 %Ni + Bi + Ca) and AVTs19KhGN (0.19 %C + 0.9 %Mn + 0.9 %Cr + 0.9 %Ni + Bi + Ca). Experimental studies were performed in industrial conditions at Zlatoust Electrometallurgical Plant, Ltd. According to the technology developed and used at the enterprise, bismuth was introduced in the form of shot to the steel stream during casting of 0.5 t ingots at a special casting site. Air samples (of statistically reliable volume) were taken using standard techniques in the working areas at principal moments of technological processes. Bismuth content in air samples was then determined by polarography method. The results demonstrate that bismuth introduction to the steel stream during top casting results in bismuth concentration in the air of the working areas exceeding the maximum permissible concentration of 0.5 mg/m3 only in the first 10 min after casting start. Bottom casting and hot forming of free-machining steels containing bismuth and calcium is not accompanied by pollution of the air in the working area with harmful substances in amounts exceeding maximum permissible concentration, unlike leaded free-machining steels.
Influence of SLM Process Parameters on Porosity of Nickel Base Heat Resistance Alloy EP648
Authors: Lykov P.A. , Baitimerov R.M. , Vaulin S.D.
Published: February 2016

In this research EP648 nickel base heat resistance alloy was used for Selective Laser Melting (SLM). This alloy can be used for producing details at high mechanical and thermal load by SLM for aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding and energy industries. To define the influence of SLM process parameters on EP648 4x4x4 mm cubic specimens were fabricated with different process parameters (scanning speed, laser power, layer thickness). The porosity of fabricated specimens was determined by scanning electron microscopy of polished cross-sections.
Creep and Long-Term Strength of Molybdenum Alloy
Authors: Samoilov S.P. , Cherniavsky A.O.
Published: February 2016

Mechanical behavior of a molybdenum alloy for high-temperature application was investigated at monotonic loading up to fracture, stress-and strain-controlled cyclic loading and short-term creep (less than 9 hours) under the temperatures from 293 to 1773 K using Gleeble-3800 physical simulator. The tests show that plastic strain corresponding to the tensile strength of the material under monotonic loading is small enough (<1%) whereas residual plastic strain after fracture exceeds by 50%. Repeated loading decreases the tensile strength and yield stress, but increases stable (rising) part of stress-strain curve. Increase in the test temperature leads to the change in fracture type from ductile to quasi-brittle distributed at a temperature above 1673 K. Under relatively low temperatures the rheological properties of the material depend strongly on the material processing history. Obtained creep data allows putting up a thermo-activational type equation used to calculate the steady creep rate. Coupling with the known Hoff's model for the creep prefracture stage, this equations allow not only strain rate but also adequate estimation of fracture time.
Thermodynamic Modelling of Rare-Earth Elements - Oxygen Interaction
Authors: Mikhailov G.G. , Makrovets L.A. , Smirnov L.A.
Published: February 2016

Fusibility curves of FeO–La2O3–Al2O3, FeO–Ce2O3–Al2O3, La2O3– Ce2O3–Al2O3 oxide systems are created based on the literature data and modern thermodynamic theories of oxide and metal melts. Admitting the oxide systems conjugation with the area of metal melts existence, we define oxide phases, which can maintain the equilibrium with metal melts of Fe–Ce–Al–O, Fe–La–Ce–Al–O systems. The surfaces of component solubility are created for above mentioned metal melts. For Fe–Ce–Al–O system it is established that the following phases can be at equilibrium with metal: Al2O3, Сe2O3, FeO∙Al2O3, Сe2O3∙11Al2O3, Сe2O3∙Al2O3, and the oxide melt (FeO, Al2O3, Сe2O3, СeO2). For Fe–La–Ce–Al–O system the following oxide phases can be at equilibrium with the liquid metal: La2O3, Al2O3, Сe2O3, La2O3∙Al2O3, Сe2O3∙11Al2O3, Сe2O3∙Al2O3, and the oxide melt (FeO, La2O3, Al2O3, Сe2O3, СeO2). Diagrams of active components consumption, which are used to establish the possibility of chosen equilibrium, are created for iron deoxidation with cerium and aluminium as well as with Ce and La at fixed Al content (0.01 wt. %).
Applying Compressive Plasma Flows to Improve Adhesion in a Film-Support System
Authors: Leyvi A.Ya. , Yalovets A.P. , Kozhevnikov D.G.
Published: February 2016

The present paper is devoted to the influence of the support surface roughness on adhesion of a film-support system (a stainless steel (St3) support + a copper film). The film was deposited using a magnetron. The film was 7 μm thick. Prior to coating with the copper film the sample surface was treated with Low-Energry Power High-Current Electron Beams (LEHCEB) or Compressive Plasma Flows (CPF). An experimental facility similar to the magnetoplasma compressor was made. The surface was exposed to LEHCEB in modes that make it smoother or rougher. The sample surface gets rougher, if treated with CPF. As the profilometry data show, the contact area rises 4 times. And this, in its turn, strengthens the adhesion.
Nitriding of Parts of Alloyed Steels with High-Energy Surface Treatment
Authors: Krioni N.K. , Mingazheva A.A. , Kononova A.Yu.
Published: February 2016

The increased wear resistance of machine parts continues to be one of the most urgent problems of modern machine engineering. Despite the intensive development of different ways of protective hardening treatment, the technologies based on thermochemical methods are quite popular and widely used to improve the performance characteristics of parts. Nitriding of the surface layer of parts as a way of improving their reliability has a considerable history of development and improvement and continues to develop relying on scientific advances in the field of high energies. However, tightened operating conditions of modern machines and equipment require creating new nitriding technologies that can provide a complex of properties of parts surface layer and therefore specified performance characteristics. This article is devoted to the research and development of a new technology of nitriding parts made of alloyed steels. The specific feature of the proposed nitriding technology consists in creating the conditions for thermochemical treatments of parts allowing forming a nitrided layer which is homogeneous in structure and composition.
Farming of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) in backyard ponds in Sri Lanka: Culture practices, fish production and profitability
Authors: Pushpalatha K.B.C. , Chandrasoma J. , Liyanage H.S.W.A. , Fernando W.A.J.R. , Jayabahu J.M.
Published: February 2016

Government of Sri Lanka through Ministry of Economic Development implemented an island-wide multi-sector programme during 2011-2014 involving rural households with the objective of enhancing nutrition and also to provide supplementary income and livelihoods. Fish farming in backyard/home garden ponds was one of the components under this programme. This was the second attempt by the government to introduce small- scale pond fish farming in Sri Lanka, and the first attempt made during 1980-1983 was a failure.A total of 2,109 ponds covering an area of 105.45 ha have been established under the current programme. Information pertaining to culture practices, fish production, financial returns and costs involved in respect of these ponds were collected through administering a questionnaire. The survey covered fish ponds in the districts of Gampaha, Puttalam and Ampara. Nile Tilapia (Oreochrimis niloticus) was the only species used for farming. All-male or mixed sex tilapia are being farmed in these ponds. Considerable variations in stocking densities adapted, inputs, fish production, selling prices of fish, operational costs and profitability was observed among ponds in these districts. Average fish production per culture cycle were 9,192 kg/ha (Gampaha), 6,074 kg/ha (Puttalam) and 3,270 kg/ha (Ampara). Tilapia farming in ponds is profitable in all three districts. Profit margins are very attractive in respect of ponds in Gampaha and Puttalam.Recommendations to ensure sustainability in tilapia farming in ponds and for further expansion of fish farming in ponds with special reference to culture practices, fish production, inputs and role of government are made.
Cryptocoryne wendtii can successfully be grown in river sand enriched with nutrients
Authors: Bambaranda B.V.A.S.M. , Peiris S.E.
Published: February 2016

Cryptocoryne wendtii is commonly used for aquaria and water gardens and hence is an economically important aquatic plant with a high demand in local and export markets. There are fifty species of genus Cryptocoryne out of which fourteen species including C. wendtii are endemic to Sri Lanka. Although Sri Lanka exports around 300 aquatic plants, exportation of endemic and threatened species collected from the wild is prohibited, but the cultivated plants. C. wendtii (‘Brown’) shows poor growth when cultivated in common soil which is used for normal propagation of other ornamental aquatic plants. Hence, this study was undertaken to find an effective substratum for C. wendtii, which is important for aquatic plant industry. C. wendtii was grown in five different media prepared with top soil and river sand in different proportions, both under emerged and submerged conditions. Results were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance. Plants grown in river sand had the highest dry weight gain and percentage survival compared to plants grown in top soil and river sand media prepared according to 1:1, 1:2, 1:3 ratios irrespective of either they were grown emerged or submerged, demonstrating that river sand enriched with commercially available fertilizer is the best medium to grow C. wendtii.
Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus Korumburuwa in the stilt fishery in Southern Sri Lanka: Are they really poisonous?
Authors: Deepananda K.H.M. Ashoka , Amarasinghe Upali S. , Jayasinghe Mudalige Udith K.
Published: February 2016

Stilt fishing is a unique fish catching method confined only to southern coast of Sri Lanka from Galle to Matara. Stilt fishermen sitting on a cross bar called “Petta” tied to vertical pole planted in the reef and carrying out rod and line fishing are a Sri Lankan icon that attracts local and foreign tourists’ attention. This small-scale, seasonal fishing method has a long history and fishers use traditional ecological knowledge for their fishing activities (Deepananda et al. 2016). Two fish species, big eye scad (Selar crumenophthamus) locally known as Esgedi bolla and bluestripe herring (Herklotsichthys quadrimaculatus) locally known as Korumburuwa are caught by this fishing method. Of the two species, Korumburuwa is fished throughout the fishing season which commences from early June with the onset of southwest monsoon and continues until February/March of the following year. Due to freshness of the fish that can be bought at affordable price, most buyers prefer purchasing Korumburuwa at the place they are fished traditionally called as Rendapola. However, there is a traditional belief among some consumers that eating Korumburuwa causes some toxic effect leading to vomiting, dizziness and sometimes fainting among those who consume this species, and also deaths of domestic animals such as cats. These beliefs have detrimental impacts on the marketing of H. quadrimaculatus caught in stilt fishing. Such widespread beliefs may have been propagated rapidly among consumers through electronic mass media. For instance, recent media reports on fish poisoning by Auxis thazard in Muttur and observation of bioluminescence in Decapterus ruselli in Weligama seriously impacted consumption of fish by general public. This communication reports the findings of a short-term study on gut contents of H. quadrimaculatus, which was carried out to investigate the root cause of the people’s beliefs that Korumburuwa is poisonous.
Immunoproliferative Small Intestinal Disease Associated with Overwhelming Polymicrobial Gastrointestinal Infection with Transformation to Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Ewers Evan C. , Sheffler Robert L. , Wang James , Ngauy Viseth
Published: February 2016

Immunoproliferative small intestinal disease (IPSID) is an extra-nodal B-cell lymphoma most commonly described in the Mediterranean, Africa, and Asia. It is associated with poverty and poor sanitation, and is rarely encountered in developed countries. A 26-year-old previously healthy, Marshallese male was transferred to our facility with a 6-month history of watery diarrhea, weakness, and cachexia refractory to multiple short courses of oral antibiotics. Stool cultures grew Campylobacter jejuni and Vibrio fluvialis. Endoscopic evaluation showed histologic evidence of Helicobacter pylori gastritis and gross evidence of whipworm infection found in the colon. Mesenteric lymph node biopsy cultures grew Escherichia coli. Histopathology and immunohistochemical stains of the small intestine were consistent with IPSID. He subsequently transformed to diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) with tonsillar involvement despite treatment with rituximab and an extended course of antibiotics. Systemic chemotherapy with six cycles of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, prednisone, and lenalidomide, resulted in remission of his diffuse B cell lymphoma. This case is illustrative of IPSID developing in a previously healthy individual due to overwhelming polymicrobial gastrointestinal infection by C. jejuni and other enteric pathogens with subsequent transformation to an aggressive DLBCL. IPSID should be considered in residents of developing countries presenting with refractory chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and mesenteric lymphadenopathy.
A Global Genomic Characterization of Nairoviruses Identifies Nine Discrete Genogroups with Distinctive Structural Characteristics and Host-Vector Associations
Authors: Walker Peter J. , Widen Steven G. , Wood Thomas G. , Guzman Hilda , Tesh Robert B. , Vasilakis Nikolaos
Published: February 2016

Nairoviruses are primarily tick-borne bunyaviruses, some of which are known to cause mild-to-severe febrile illness in humans or livestock. We describe the genome sequences of 11 poorly characterized nairoviruses that have ecological associations with either birds (Farallon, Punta Salinas, Sapphire II, Zirqa, Avalon, Clo Mor, Taggert, and Abu Hammad viruses), rodents (Qalyub and Bandia viruses), or camels (Dera Ghazi Khan virus). Global phylogenetic analyses of proteins encoded in the L, M, and S RNA segments of these and 20 other available nairovirus genomes identified nine well-supported genogroups (Nairobi sheep disease, Thiafora, Sakhalin, Keterah, Qalyub, Kasokero, Dera Ghazi Khan, Hughes, and Tamdy). Genogroup-specific structural variations were evident, particularly in the M segment encoding a polyprotein from which virion envelope glycoproteins (Gn and Gc) are generated by proteolytic processing. Structural variations include the extension, abbreviation, or absence sequences encoding an O-glycosylated mucin-like protein in the N-terminal domain, distinctive patterns of conserved cysteine residues in the GP38-like domain, insertion of sequences encoding a double-membrane-spanning protein (NSm) between the Gn and Gc domains, and the presence of an alternative long open reading frame encoding a viroporin-like transmembrane protein (Gx). We also observed strong genogroup-specific associations with categories of hosts and tick vectors.
Borderland City in New India
Authors: McDuie-Ra Duncan , Schendel Willem , Harris Tina
Published: February 2016

While India has been a popular subject of scholarly analysis in the past decade, the majority of that attention has been focused on its major cities. This volume instead explores contemporary urban life in a smaller city located in India's Northeast borderland at a time of dramatic change, showing how this city has been profoundly affected by armed conflict, militarism, displacement, interethnic tensions, and the expansion of neoliberal capitalism.
The Animal Rights Struggle
Authors: Traïni Christophe ,   Presses Universitaires de France
Published: February 2016

Since the early nineteenth century, numerous campaigns have denounced the mistreatment of animals. Originally published in French as La cause animale, this book compares the British and French histories of the animal-protection movement to retrace its origins and assess its impact up to the present day. As Christophe Traïni shows, the struggle for animal rights-inextricably linked to the rise of philanthropy and established long before the birth of the ecology movement-developed out of several important social and political processes, including changes in sensibilities and socially approved emotions, new definitions of what constitutes legitimate violence, and the influence of religious beliefs.
Rival Kurdish Movements in Turkey
Authors: Gürbüz Mustafa
Published: February 2016

This book explores the conditions that encourage non-violent civic engagement in emerging civil societies. Gürbüz examines the radical transformations over the past decade in the politics of Turkey's Kurdish minority. On the eve of the new millennium, the Turkish state was still openly denying the existence of Kurds, calling them "mountain Turks," and Kurdish populated cities were ruled under martial law. Kurdish politics in Turkey was dominated by a revolutionary movement, the PKK, which engaged in violent clashes with the state. Less than a decade later, the PKK's rebellion had all but ended, and Kurdish political and civic movements of numerous stripes had emerged. The Turkish state even introduced an official Kurdish-language TV channel. How did this rapid change occur? Gürbüz proposes that contending social movements has transformed the politics of the region, ushering in an era of post-conflict political and cultural competition.
Holocene Asian monsoon evolution revealed by a pollen record from an alpine lake on the southeastern margin of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau, China
Authors: Zhang Enlou , Wang Yongbo , Sun Weiwei , Shen Ji
Published: February 2016

Abstract. We present the results of pollen analyses from a 1105 cm long sediment core from Wuxu Lake in southwestern China, which depict the variations of the East Asian winter monsoon (EAWM) and the Indian summer monsoon (ISM) during the last 12.3 ka. During the period of 12.3 to 11.3 cal ka BP, the dominance of Betula forest and open alpine shrub and meadow around Wuxu Lake indicates a climate with relatively cold winters and dry summers, corresponding to the Younger Dryas event. Between 11.3 and 10.4 cal ka BP, further expansion of Betula forest and the retreat of alpine shrubs and meadows reflect a greater seasonality with cold winters and gradually increasing summer precipitation. From 10.4 to 4.9 cal ka BP, the dense forest understory, together with the gradual decrease in Betula forest and increase in Tsuga forest, suggest that the winters became warmer and summer precipitation was at a maximum, corresponding to the Holocene climatic optimum. Between 4.9 and 2.6 cal ka BP, Tsuga forest and alpine shrubs and meadows expanded significantly, reflecting relatively warm winters and decreased summer precipitation. Since 2.6 cal ka BP, reforestation around Wuxu Lake indicates a renewed humid period in the late Holocene; however, the vegetation in the catchment may also have been affected by grazing activity during this period. The results of our study are generally consistent with previous findings; however, the timing and duration of the Holocene climatic optimum from different records are inconsistent, reflecting real contrast in local rainfall response to the ISM. Overall, the EAWM is broadly in-phase with the ISM on the orbital timescale, and both monsoons exhibit a trend of decreasing strength from the early to late Holocene, reflecting the interplay of solar insolation receipt between the winter and summer seasons and El Niño–Southern Oscillation strength in the tropical Pacific.
Importance of maximum snow accumulation for summer low flows in humid catchments
Authors: Jenicek Michal , Seibert Jan , Zappa Massimiliano , Staudinger Maria , Jonas Tobias
Published: February 2016

Abstract. Winter snow accumulation obviously has an effect on the following catchment runoff. The question is, however, how long this effect lasts and how important it is compared to rainfall inputs. Here we investigate the relative importance of snow accumulation on one critical aspect of runoff, namely the summer low flow. This is especially relevant as the expected increase of air temperature might result in decreased snow storage. A decrease of snow will affect soil and groundwater storages during spring and might cause low streamflow values in the subsequent warm season. To understand these potential climate change impacts, a better evaluation of the effects of inter-annual variations in snow accumulation on summer low flow under current conditions is central. The objective in this study was (1) to quantify how long snowmelt affects runoff after melt-out and (2) to estimate the sensitivity of catchments with different elevation ranges to changes in snowpack. To find suitable predictors of summer low flow we used long time series from 14 Alpine and pre-Alpine catchments in Switzerland and computed different variables quantifying winter and spring snow conditions. In general, the results indicated that maximum winter snow water equivalent (SWE) influenced summer low flow, but could expectedly only partly explain the observed inter-annual variations. On average, a decrease of maximum SWE by 10 % caused a decrease of minimum discharge in July by 6–9 % in catchments higher than 2000 m a.s.l. This effect was smaller in middle- and lower-elevation catchments with a decrease of minimum discharge by 2–5 % per 10 % decrease of maximum SWE. For higher- and middle-elevation catchments and years with below-average SWE maximum, the minimum discharge in July decreased to 70–90 % of its normal level. Additionally, a reduction in SWE resulted in earlier low-flow occurrence in some cases. One other important factor was the precipitation between maximum SWE and summer low flow. When only dry preceding conditions in this period were considered, the importance of maximum SWE as a predictor of low flows increased. We assessed the sensitivity of individual catchments to the change of maximum SWE using the non-parametric Theil–Sen approach as well as an elasticity index. Both sensitivity indicators increased with increasing mean catchment elevation, indicating a higher sensitivity of summer low flow to snow accumulation in Alpine catchments compared to lower-elevation pre-Alpine catchments.
EVA and the Impact of the Macroeconomic Variables: Evidence from the Jordanian Manufacturing Companies
Authors: Ramadan Imad Zeyad
Published: February 2016

This study aimed at examining the effect of macroeconomic variables on the performance of Jordanian manufacturing companies listed in Amman Stock Exchange expressed by EVA using unbalanced panel data pooled ordinary least square (OLS) regression model of all 77th Jordanian manufacturing companies listed at ASE for the period 2000-2014 resulting in 1085 firm-year observations connecting firm level and time series data set. This study has revealed that interest rate has statistically significant inverse effect on the performance of the Jordanian manufacturing companies (β=-0.064, p-value <0.01).The results of this study have also revealed that Inflation (β=0.0945, p-value <0.05) and Government expenditure ratio(β=0.0734, p-value <0.05) have a statistically significant positive effect on the performance of the Jordanian manufacturing companies at the significance level <0.05.Also, Gross domestic product(β=0.00395, p-value <0.10) affects the performance of the Jordanian manufacturing companies at the significance level< 0.10, and finally, the study has revealed that Money supply and the labor force indicator have no statistically significant effect on the performance of the Jordanian manufacturing companies. Basically, and depending on the results of this study, we can conclude that Economic Value Add (EVA) of the Jordanian manufacturing companies, as a proxy of the performance, is a function of Inflation, Interest rate, Government expenditure ratio and Gross domestic product.
Memorization of Piano Music: A Challenge for Chinese Piano Students
Authors: Chen Ruoxu
Published: February 2016

As many Chinese piano students have encountered various kinds of problem to memorize the music, which negatively influences their musical development, this paper reports a comprehensive study on the memorization of piano music and introduces the efficient ways to accomplish the memorization. Correlative analysis demonstrate that 1) like any other ability, the ability to memorize piano music needs a lot of practice; 2) for pianists who are making great efforts to fulfill their inevitable memorization task, it is important to persistently have a positive attitude towards the goal through the entire memorizing process; 3) rather than regarding memorization as a time-consuming and must-do tradition that has been handed down from the piano predecessors, it is more reasonable to regard the memorization process as an opportunity to wholly free the performers from the written page and to truly own the piece. Hopefully, this study can provide some assistance to both Chinese piano teachers and students to conquer the issue.
The Relationship between Resilience, Psychological Hardiness, Spiritual Intelligence, and Development of the Moral Judgement of the Female Students
Authors: Darvishzadeh Kobra , Dasht Bozorgi Zahra
Published: February 2016

This study aims to determine the relationship between resilience, psychological hardiness, spiritual intelligence, and development of the moral judgment of the female students in 2014. The research sample included 200 female high school students of District 2, Ahvaz-Iran in educational year of 2014-15 that were selected using the available sampling method. In this paper, for measuring the resilience, psychological hardiness, and spiritual intelligence, resilience scale, Ahvaz Hardiness questionnaire, and moral judgment questionnaire were used, respectively. For data analysis, in addition to the descriptive statistics, inferential statistical such as Pearson's correlation coefficient and multivariate regression analysis using the simultaneous method was used. Data analysis showed that there is a positive and significant relationship between the psychological hardiness, spiritual intelligence, and growth of the moral judgment. Moreover, results of the regression analysis showed that predictor variables are effective in clarifying the 0.41 of the variance of the spiritual intelligence development of the students. 
A Brief Study of Principles and Conditions of Certain Authorities of Religious Minorities in Iran’s Law
Authors: Khorsand Abdossaeid Badiei , Parvin Farhad
Published: February 2016

There is hardly a country or a government in the world which all its citizens are of the same race or ethnic background, speak the same language or follow the same religion. Indeed, there is one majority in most countries in the world which have the same history, culture, language, religion and nationality. Besides, there are some small groups in those countries that have their own ethnical, lingual and religious characteristics called minorities. The religious minorities which are part of each society are citizens of that society and as a result, they have the rights and promises like other citizens in the same society. Religious minorities have always been given special attention in holy Sharia of Islam and they have lived next to Muslims during centuries and, consequently, they have had rights and promises. One of the privileges given to the religious minorities is their legal independence for taking civil action by religious minorities. Such issue has been considered by legislator in different laws in Iran. So that it necessitates an analysis of its principles and conditions for taking civil actions concerning the approved laws in legal system of Iran. The present paper aims at shedding some lights on the same subject. 
Buddhist Precepts and the Diagnosis of Women’s suffering in Doris Lessing’s The Golden Notebook
Authors: Shaereh Shaerpooraslilankrodi Shaereh , Hashim Ruzy Suliza
Published: February 2016

In Doris Lessing’s fictions, the effects of the world outside on the female self-transcendence are invariably lost, and instead the journey in the world within is notably emphasized. Similarly in The Golden Notebook the didactic bend of the female enlightenment is firmly entrenched to the world within where personal harmonies parallel the mystical patterns of self-development. Moreover, the detailed exploration of the novel foregrounds the female characters’ hard effort to end their suffering which is the core of Buddhist teachings. Hence, while Lessing is not specifically attempting to portray Buddhist principles in her novel, her vision captures the universal nature of humankind’s attempts to overcome suffering which is the most emphasized concept in Buddhism. Accordingly, the purpose of this paper is to use Buddhist philosophical thoughts, particularly the founding of the pioneer of Mahayana Buddhism, Nagarjuna, in his book Mulamadhyamakakarika to look more closely at the root of women’s suffering and their prescription to overcome it. The methodology appropriated entails depiction of clinging as the root of female suffering which is overtly discussed in Nagarjuna’s philosophy. After diagnosis of clinging disease as the root of suffering, this paper presents Nagarjuna’s prescription to end suffering through viewing the “empty” nature of beings and “dependent arising”. By examining the root of female suffering and offering the method for its eradication, we depart from other critics who examine Lessing’s works under Sufi mystic thoughts. This departure is significant since we reveal, unlike Sufi patterns within which the suffering is only diagnosed, Lessing’s mystic aim in shaping her female characters is not only to detect their suffering, but like Buddhism, to suggest a prescription for it. 
Investigating the Impact of Consultation Based on Acceptance and Commitment to Reduce Anger in Children and Adolescents with Cancer
Authors: Asadi Parvaneh , Ghojavand Kazem , Abedi Mohamadreza
Published: February 2016

Non-pharmacological approaches such as the cognitive-behavioral strategies and pathological information do not treat the underlying pain and do not change pain perception but somehow reduce the emotional responses to the pain. In this regard, the study has examined the effect of consulting to reduce the anger based on acceptance and commitment between children and adolescents with cancer. This study is a semi-experimental and research project, pre-test and post-test with control and follow-up period. The study sample was included all 242 children with cancer admitted in Seydoshohada Hospital of Isfahan province in 2014. The number of 30 subjects is selected among the population including 15 experimental and 15 control groups. To collect information a demographic questionnaire is used and the Nilsson anger questionnaire (2000) is used to analyze the data by the SPSS Software. The results show that the effect of counseling on anger component changes in children with cancer is statistically significant. This means that the consulting in the form of acceptance and commitment leads to reduce the signs of anger in children with cancer (0.01> P). For this reason and given the results of the study the hypothesis was proved.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for English Language Teaching, Vol. 9, No. 3
Authors: Yu Gavin
Published: February 2016

Reviewer acknowledgements for English Language Teaching, Vol. 9, No. 3, 2016
Sustained Attention and Its Relationship to Fluid Intelligence and Working Memory in Children
Authors: Voelke Annik E. , Roebers Claudia M.
Published: February 2016

Understanding individual differences in intelligence remains an interesting research question, even with more than a century of empirical research and large numbers of models and theories. We know that working memory (WM) is able to explain substantial amounts of variance in fluid intelligence in both children and adults, but we also know that it is not the only predictor of intelligence. There are many other information-processing mechanisms that have been studied. Results in adult samples seem to indicate that sustained attention—the ability to maintain attention on a specific task over an extended period of time—is strongly related to fluid intelligence. There is little research on this topic in childhood, but the available data seems to converge with results from adult samples. The aim of the present study was to assess sustained attention and its relationship to fluid intelligence and WM in children. Additionally, we wanted to explore whether sustained attention contributes to the prediction of intelligence over and above WM. A sample of 125 ten-year olds was assessed using tests of fluid intelligence, sustained attention and WM. The results showed that, as expected, WM and fluid intelligence were significantly related. Surprisingly however, sustained attention was not related to fluid intelligence or WM. Using results from previous studies and theoretical considerations, we concluded that sustained attention may not be directly related to fluid intelligence in childhood, but rather that it may be a more distal factor influencing information processing in more unstructured learning situations and hence impacting academic achievement.
Some aspects of the moss population development on the Svalbard glaciers
Authors: Belkina Olga A. , Vilnet Anna A.
Published: February 2016

Glaciers are rather unusual habitat for mosses, but sometimes they can be suitable for some species due to presence of sufficient moisture and cryoconite substrate in the ablation zone. To date, moss populations were found only on a few glaciers in Alaska, Iceland and Svalbard. An origin and development of moss cushions on ice (so called "glacier mice") are still unclear. In this study, some aspects of the moss population development were explored on ice of the Svalbard glaciers – Bertilbreen (Billefjorden) and Austre Grnfjordbreen (Grnfjorden) in 2012 and 2013. On Bertilbreen, populations of Hygrohypnella polaris (Lindb.) Ignatov & Ignatova and Schistidium abrupticostatum (Bryhn) Ignatova & H.H. Blom were found for the first time. Due to putative morphological features, identification of S. abrupticostatum was confirmed by com-paring ITS1-2 nrDNA sequence data to BLAST searches (megablast). The results indicated a genetic heterogeneity of the population. Although visually moss-free, examination of cryoconite sediments revealed development of new individuals of S. abrupticostatum from filamentous structures consisting of caulonema and rhizoids. The developmental stages of young plants were revealed. Therefore, besides fragmen-tation of existing cushions, cryoconite sediments provided a source of new moss cush-ions in glacier populations. Additionally a few plants of Pohlia cf. wahlenbergii (F. Weber & D. Mohr) Andrews and a gametophyte fragment of Philonotis sp. were found in aggregation of cryoconite. Presence of Paludella squarrosa (Hedw.) Brid. reported for Bertilbreen has not been confirmed. On Austre Grnfjordbreen Bryum cryophilum Mrtensson, Sanionia uncinata (Hedw.) Loeske were found invading into some Hygrohypnella polaris cushions. Each moss polster on ice represents a separate mini-ecosystem that includes successive colonization events.
Antarctic strain of green filamentous alga Zygnema sp. shows a high resistance to photoinhibition under simulated polar conditions
Authors: Thangaraj Giridharan
Published: February 2016

This study deals with treatment-dependent differences in sensitivity of Antarctic filamentous alga Zygnema sp. to photoinhibition. Zygnema sp. (strain EEL201) was collected at the James Ross Island, Antarctica (57° 52´ 57´´ W, 63° 48´ 02´´ S). In a laboratory, the alga was cultivated on agar first and then innoculated to liquid medium. They were exposed to a short-term (30 min.) high light (HL) treatments. Particular treatments comprised 600, 1 400 and 2 100 and 3 500 μmol m-2 s-1 of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). Photosynthetic efficiency of Zygnema sp. in individual HL treatments was monitored by chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, potential (FV/FM) and actual (FPSII) quantum yield of photochemical processes in photosystem II in particular. Zygnema sp. showed a high resistance to HL since it both chlorophyll fluorescence parameters recovered to about 70% of initial values after 4 h in dark. Chlorophyll fluorescence measured immediately after particular treatment, showed HL-dependent decrease in absolute values of chlorophyll fluorescence signal and consequent uncompleted recovery as well. Quenching of F0, an indicator of changes in light-harvesting complexes of photosystem II, did not show dose-dependent response, however, general trend was a decrease found immediately HL treatment with consequent uncompleated recovery. In general, Zygnema sp. exhibited high resistance to PAR doses that the species can whitness in the field during austral summer. Thus the species could be considered highly adapted for high light and has effective mechanisms to cope with photoinhibition. Involvement of particular photoprotective mechanism, their activation and share in natural environment is a topic for future studies.
Physiological performance of a foliose macrolichen Umbilicaria antarctica as affected by supplemental UV-B treatment
Authors: Medina Mariana Gonzalez , Avalos-Chacon Roxana
Published: February 2016

To date, a limited knowledge is available about Umbilicaria antarctica responses when it is exposed high doses of UV-B radiation. It is well established that resistance of Antarctic lichens to natural UV-B levels including increased doses during ozone hole period is high, thanks to numerous photoprotective mechanism. Capacity of the photoprotective processes, however, is not well known This study attempts to determine changes on the photosynthetic efficiency and on the synthesis of UV-B absorbing compounds of U. antarctica when exposed to low photosynthetically active radiation and extremely high intensity of UV-B light: 3.0 W m-2, of UV-B for 3 hours, 6 hours and 7 days. During the experiment, chlorophyll fluorescence was measured to evaluate changes in photosynthetic apparatus of intrathalline alga. After 7 d exposition, amount of UV-B absorbing compounds was evaluated in U. antarctica. Heavy UV-B stress let to an increase in chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics (OJIPs), however, majority of parameters related to functioning of PS II remained unchanged indicating high resistance of U. antarctica to UV-B stress. Potential (FV/FM) and actual (ФPSII) yields of PS II were not affected by the UV-B treatment as well. In majority of cases, heavy UV-B treatment led to a decrease in the amount of UV-B absorbing compounds extracted from treated thalli.
Analysis of seasonality in trophic relationships of true seals (Phocideae) in the White Sea
Authors: Svetocheva Olga N. , Svetochev Vladislav N.
Published: February 2016

The analysis of interspecific trophic relations of true seals in the White Sea on the basis of long-term study, done on feeding, is shown. Main finding is that the ringed and bearded seals have no competitive interrelations. Contrastingly, the harp seal had an impact on background seals, intensity of the competition was, however, insignificant due of harp seal seasonal stay in the White Sea. The ice-free seals, i.e. grey and harbor seals, did not show a trophic competition with ice-liking seals thanks to seasonality of stay in the White Sea and insignificant number. The trophic competition of these seals to other pinnipeds is possible at restoration of areas.
We Judge Water Using our Senses in Surprising Ways
Authors: Burlingame Gary A. , Dietrich Andrea M.
Published: February 2016

Taste perceptions operate on subtle but powerful levels most of us aren't aware of. A closer look at the science behind best‐tasting water contests reveals the sensory complexity that determines our taste judgments.
Creating Conditions for Participation: Conflicts and Resources in Systems Design
Authors: Bødker Susanne
Published: February 2016

User participation in design is a well recognized way of gaining more knowledge about work, and of improving the quality of the computer application to be designed. Yet many experiences with user participation were gained under circumstances quite different from those of corporations in the 1990's - in the Scandinavian collective resource projects. This paper will argue that a lot can still be learned from these projects, in particular when it comes to the creation of conditions for participation.

The paper will present a recent project, the AT project, in order to discuss the concerns and conditions of participatory design projects today. This discussion seeks inspiration also in philosophical concerns regarding human development. The main message is that we shouldn't throw out the baby with the bath water, though certainly many aspects need to be rethought. The paper goes on to suggest that new alliances between groups in organizations, with due concern for their diversity of resources, and with constructive use of the conflicts inherent in the organization despite their fundamentally conflicting interests, may be a way forward in empowering organizations, making room for groups and individuals within them to act. The paper discusses experiences with ways of setting up design activities in such an environment.