Effects Of Structural Constraints Research Articles

Effect of Structural Constraints, Weak Institutional and Technical Capacities on the Rate of Globalization in a Developing Economy (Nigeria Inclusive)

Effect of Structural Constraints, Weak Institutional and Technical Capacities on the Rate of Globalization in a Developing Economy (Nigeria Inclusive)

Gender differences in statistical interaction effects of perceived well-being and structural constraints on the intention to attend a game

ABSTRACT Research question: This research examined the effect of perceived well-being from a spectator experience on the intention to attend a sporting event, and the moderating effects of structural constraints on attending a game, depending on gender. Research methods: The authors conducted a questionnaire survey at a professional Japanese basketball game. A total of 172 participants were included (57.6% female). The authors conducted a confirmatory factor analysis to check the reliability and validity of the measurement scales, then tested the hypotheses using two-step hierarchical multiple regression analyses by gender. Results and Findings: The hypotheses testing indicated that spectators who perceived a high degree of well-being from their spectator experience had high intentions to attend a game. Furthermore, for female spectators, the positive effect of perceived well-being decreased when they perceived more constraints before arriving at the event venue, whereas for male spectators, it was reduced when they perceived more constraints at the venue. Implications: This research expanded current understanding of how perceived well-being from a spectator experience can increase intentions to attend a sporting event. Additionally, two sequential structural constraint constructs extended existing constraint studies. Lastly, the identified gender differences in the moderating effects of such structural constraints provided scientific contributions to the field of sport marketing.

A geoelectrical pre-study of Älvkarleby test embankment dam: 3D forward modelling and effects of structural constraints on the 3D inversion model of zoned embankment dams

Electrical resistivity tomography has potential as a complementary long-term monitoring method in embankment dams; however, the 3D character of the geometry including the shape of the embankment, its internal zoned construction and the reservoir water make interpretation challenging. To tackle this problem, a qualified inversion model considering the 3D environment is necessary. In this paper, prior information about the resistivity of different parts of a test embankment dam was used as constraints in order to increase the capability of defect detection in a complex 3D context. Five small defects were incorporated into the core of the model. Laboratory measurements were made on samples of the materials intended to be used for the construction of a test embankment dam, and resistivity values provided from the laboratory measurements were used in the forward modelling. A measurement sequence of around 8000 synthetic data points using extended gradient, crossline bipole-bipole and corner arrays between horizontal-horizontal, vertical-vertical, and vertical-horizontal lines were modelled and inverted all at once. The structural constraints were applied to increase the accuracy of inversion, using the L1 and L2 methods. Different mesh qualities with different boundaries for each region and 3D geometric factor calculation were applied for the inversion to evaluate the effects of region control incorporated in the inversion process. The results showed that L1 and L2 norm inversions combined with region control can determine the location of very small defects and finding the defects located near each other, respectively. Removing the region control from the inversion caused unrealistic resistivity prediction for some regions and the inability to discover the dam defects. Therefore, the proposed methodology can decrease non-uniqueness in the inversion and make time-lapse ERT a valuable monitoring tool that complements other instrumentation techniques and based on these results it was concluded promising to continue with the construction of the test dam using the same type of defects and electrode set-up, for verification under field-conditions.

When technology meets heritage: a moderated mediation of immersive technology on the constraint-satisfaction relationship

ABSTRACT Cultural heritage represents the precious treasures of humanity. Understanding potential constraints and applicability of burgeoning technology become vital for cultural heritage conservation and tourism development. This study proposes a research model based on the leisure constraints theory vis-à-vis cultural heritage tourism. The model is tested by an on-site visitor survey from 495 tourists in the Mogao Grottoes, a well-known cultural heritage site in China. Results from two-step partial least squares structural equation modelling suggest that both interpersonal and structural constraints negatively influence tourists’ satisfaction. The study further divided tourists’ conservation behaviour into low- and high-effort ones, revealing that satisfaction has a higher level of impact on high-effort behaviour. Moreover, interpersonal and structural constraints negatively affect visitors’ heritage conservation behaviour via satisfaction, and these indirect effects of structural constraints are further moderated by the content quality of immersive technology. In other words, immersive technologies could alleviate the negative effects of constraints on tourist experience in the cultural heritage site. Findings provide critical implications for theory and practice.

¿Navegando contra la corriente?: transición educativo-laboral de jóvenes egresados de la educación secundaria técnico profesional en Chile

La educación media técnico profesional (EMTP) representa un componente central de la oferta formativa de la educación secundaria en Chile, cubriendo un porcentaje cercano al 40% de los estudiantes de los dos últimos grados de enseñanza obligatoria, fundamentalmente aquellos que provienen de los sectores más pobres de la socidad. Tal relevancia, sin embargo, no ha tenido un correlato en el desarrollo de políticas tendientes a fortalecer su modelo formativo o articularse con las necesidades productivas del país. Los antecedentes muestran que los egresdados de la EMTP presentan recorridos hetrogéneos y especialmente complejos. Factores estructurales vinculados a los altos grados de vulnerabilidad social e incongruencias institucionales presentes en las políticas educativo-laborales, forman parte del diagnóstico de esta situación. En este marco, el artículo aborda las tensiones y el tipo de recursos que manejan los jóvenes una vez que egresan de la EMTP para hacer frente a su futuro inmediato. A partir de un análisis quer combina aportes de la perspectiva de curso de vida y la sociología de la experiencia (enfatizando el análisis de puntos de quiebre y pruebas estructurales), se revisan las decisiones, apoyos, dificultades y desafíos implicados en las transiciones educativo-laborales que estos jóvenes experimentan. Se profundiza en el efecto de las condciones estructurales y en las formas en las que estos jóvenes despliegan acciones personales en un contexto altamente individualizado y con débiles soportes institucionales como ocurre en el caso chileno.

Interdependencies of structural constraints, attachment and behavioural intentions of sport spectators

ABSTRACT Research question Leisure behaviour has focused long time on positive outcomes for active and passive sport participants and it has been advocated that constraints play an important role in decision-making in leisure activities. The purpose of this study was to investigate the interdependencies of spectator constraints, attachment to a sport team, and behavioural intentions. Research methods Using a paper-pencil questionnaire, data were collected from spectators attending a J. League Division 2 matches in Japan using a convenience sampling approach. Five-hundred and fifty questionnaires were distributed and total sample size used was n = 428. Results and Findings Structural equation modelling has found a negative and significant direct association of structural constraints on attachment which in turn has a positive and significant direct association with behavioural intentions. There is negative and significant indirect effect of structural constraints on intentions (mediated via attachment) whereas there is no significant direct effect of constraints on intentions. Thus, attachment serves as negotiator between constraints and intentions. Multi-group analysis has revealed significant gender differences. Implications Practitioners should identify the actual attachment of their spectators as attachment functions as mediator between perceived constraints and behavioural intentions. Since not all structural constraints can be remedied by management (e.g. weather), knowing the level of attachment is important to reduce constraints.

Geometric randomization of real networks with prescribed degree sequence

We introduce a model for the randomization of complex networks with geometric structure. The geometric randomization (GR) model assumes a homogeneous distribution of the nodes in a hidden similarity space and uses rewirings of the links to find configurations that maximize a connection probability akin to that of the popularity-similarity geometric network models. The rewiring preserves exactly the original degree sequence, thus preventing fluctuations in the degree cutoff. The GR model is manifestly simple as it relies upon a single free parameter controlling the clustering of the rewired network, and it does not require the explicit estimation of hidden degree variables. We demonstrate the applicability of GR by implementing it as a null model for the analysis of community structure. As a result, we find that geometric and topological communities detected in real networks are consistent, while topological communities are also detected in randomized counterparts as an effect of structural constraints.

An optimized thermal network model to estimate thermal performances on a pair of angular contact ball bearings under oil-air lubrication

To estimate thermal performances of angular contact ball bearings is essential for operating precision and service life of angular contact ball bearings. However, a simple and accurate model estimating the bearing temperature is needed but absent so far. Considering the centrifugal force, gyroscopic moment and thermal expansion, ball loads equilibrium model was first established to analyze the bearing loads. The radial and axial heat transfer, especially the effect of structural constraints on bearings temperature was well characterized as well as the bearing mounting arrangement, and then an enhanced node planning scheme was proposed. With their surroundings considered, an optimized thermal grid model for a pair of front bearings mounted in the high-speed spindle was developed by using this scheme. Next Newton-Raphson method was employed to obtain the numerical solution by Matlab. The bearing temperature variation, moreover, was tested to validate the developed model. The results indicate that both series of results agree well. Compared with the presented models, the deviation between the calculation results and the test values is reduced to less than 9%. As a result, the bearing temperature rise can be better forecasted, which may be beneficialto improve bearing operating accuracy as well as bearing service life.

Mathematical model of tracking systems taking into account nonlinearities in state variables

Mathematical modelling makes it possible to verify correct operation of the system being designed before actually implementing it, but linear models do not enable us to evaluate the effect of structural constraints, taking which into account makes irregularities appear. We present an approach that allows us to design and implement a model of a dynamic tracking system using the coefficients of the desired transfer function to account for irregularities in the momentum and state variables. We present results of modelling in the MATLAB / Simulink environment taking various irregularities into account

Numerical and Experimental Study on Cutting Access Opening in Ship Structure

Creating an access opening in ship structure through thermal cutting is an important process in ship repair and reconstruction. The flame cutting process typically leads to a nonuniform temperature distribution, generates residual thermal stress and localized plastic deformation. As openings are needed at various locations of ship hulls, it is also necessary to consider the effects of structural constraints in the immediate end of the plate where the plate is either welded or fixed to the ship frame or bulkhead. These are challenging tasks. This article presents a study based on the thermal elastoplastic analysis. By using the finite element techniques, a steel plate model undergoing flame cutting process to create an opening was studied in details. The numerical model was validated with experimental data. The study identified several key parameters that are 1) structural boundary condition, 2) steel plate size, 3) opening location, and 4) opening shape.

Dielectric relaxation of polymers: segmental dynamics under structural constraints.

In this article we review the recent polymer literature where dielectric spectroscopy has been used to investigate the segmental dynamics of polymers under the constraints produced by self-structuring. Specifically, we consider three cases: (i) semicrystalline polymers, (ii) segregated block-copolymers, and (iii) asymmetric miscible polymer blends. In these three situations the characteristics of the dielectric relaxation associated with the polymer segmental dynamics are markedly affected by the constraints imposed by the corresponding structural features. After reviewing in detail each of the polymer systems, the most common aspects are discussed in the context of the use of dielectric relaxation as a sensitive tool for analyzing structural features in nanostructured polymer systems.

Effects of Electronic and Nuclear Interactions on the Excited-State Properties and Structural Dynamics of Copper(I) Diimine Complexes

The effects of structural constraints on the metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) excited state structural dynamics of cuprous bis-2,9-diphenyl-phenanthroline ([Cu(I)(dpp)(2)](+)) in both coordinating acetonitrile and noncoordinating toluene were studied using X-ray transient absorption (XTA) spectroscopy and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The phenyl groups attached to the phenanthroline ligands not only effectively shield the Cu(I) center from solvent molecules, but also force a flattened tetrahedral coordination geometry of the Cu(I) center. Consequently, the MLCT state lifetime in [Cu(I)(dpp)(2)](+) is solvent-independent, unlike the previously studied 2,9-methyl substituted bis-phenanthroline Cu(I) complex. The MLCT state of [Cu(I)(dpp)(2)](+) still undergoes a "pseudo Jahn-Teller distortion," with the angle between the two phenanthroline ligand planes decreased further by 7°. The XTA results indicate that, in the MLCT excited state of [Cu(I)(dpp)(2)](+), the phenyls at the 2, 9 positions of the phenanthroline rotate, breaking the π-π interaction with the phenanthroline ligands without ever rotating in-plane with the phenanthroline ligands. Hence, the transferred electron density from the Cu(I) center is localized on the phenanthroline moiety with no charge density present on the phenyl rings. The insight about the effect of the structural constraints on the MLCT state properties will guide the design of Cu(I) diimine complexes with suitable excited-state properties to function as earth-abundant dye sensitizers for solar electricity generation.

Effects of Structural Constraints and Costs on Choices

AbstractThe paper argues that many choice situations involve a more complicated constraint structure than the standard linear budget constraint and consumption set. Some abstract examples are outlined and in each case some theoretical properties are derived, for example, of the comparative statics. One result of interest is to derive the direct utility choice problem, which generates quasihomothetic preferences. Some empirical examples for the generic cases are sketched for rural household choices, choices of costs of travel to work, a UK welfare benefit system.

Incivilities in nonmetropolitan communities: The effects of structural constraints, social conditions, and crime

Guided by social disorganization theory and the emerging concept of collective efficacy, this study used three sources of data, including community surveys administered to 1,125 citizens nested in thirty-one residential units, and hierarchical modeling techniques to examine the effects of structural features and collective social processes, net of property crime (i.e., burglary) and citizen-level sociodemographic characteristics, on perceived incivilities (i.e., signs of physical decay and social disorder) in nonmetropolitan communities. The results showed that respondents living in economically disadvantaged geographic areas were significantly more likely to perceive their immediate surroundings in more negative terms (i.e., higher levels of incivilities). Respondents living in residential units characterized by higher levels of collective efficacy (i.e., a composite measure consisting of both cohesion and control), however, reported significantly fewer incivility problems. When assessed separately, social cohesion partially mediated the effects of economic disadvantage. The findings indicated that social disorganization theory generalizes to less densely populated, nonmetropolitan communities.

Influence of Structural and Topological Constraints on the Crystallization and Melting Behavior of Polymers. 2. Poly(arylene ether ether ketone)

The secondary crystallization and its influence on the glass transition are studied as a function of crystallization temperature and time by differential scanning calorimetry for PEEK. The multiple melting behavior resulting from isothermal annealing from the glass or crystallization from the melt is discussed in the context of models considering either a melting−recrystallization−remelting process or a bimodal population of primary and secondary crystals. The heating rate dependence of the multiple melting behavior indicates that reorganization of primary crystals occurs during heating for samples annealed from the glassy state but is insignificant for those crystallized from the melt. For either mode of crystallization, the high- and low-temperature endothermic regions are associated with the melting of primary and secondary crystals, respectively. Investigations of the low endotherm transition temperature and heat of fusion as a function of crystallization time and temperature lead to the following conclusions: the melting temperature of secondary crystals increases linearly with the logarithm of secondary crystallization time at a rate, B(T), increasing linearly with decreasing temperature; the Avrami exponent, which characterizes the initial stage of secondary crystallization, is constant below ca. 310 °C (n = 1/2) but increases gradually with temperature above 310 °C; the late stage of secondary crystallization is characterized by a linear increase in crystallinity with logarithm of time. Studies of the evolution of the glass transition after secondary crystallization indicate that the calorimetric Tg increases linearly with the logarithm of time at a rate, b(T), increasing with decreasing temperature. Finally, a qualitative model of polymer crystallization of semiflexible polymer chains is proposed. This model considers the effect of structural constraints (chain stiffness) on the nature of the amorphous phase after primary crystallization and the effect of topological constraints (pinning of amorphous chains) on the secondary crystallization behavior.

The question of robusticity and the relationship between cranial size and shape inHomo sapiens

Although cranial gracility is generally considered to be a characteristic feature of modern skulls, a quantification of the degree of development of cranial superstructures discloses varying levels of robusticity in certain recent and sub-recent populations. In order to account for these structures, biomechanical interpretations in terms of masticatory stress and the effects of structural constraints have been put forward. This paper examines the multivariate relationships between robusticity and cranial dimensions in modern humans through canonical correlation and principal components analyses. These analyses reveal a very significant association between robusticity and cranial size, by which the larger the size of the skull, the greater the development of the cranial superstructures. In this context, size is biased towards maximum cranial length, various measures of upper facial breadth, basion–nasion length and palato–dental size. A statistically less important relationship between robusticity and cranial shape reveals that there are two main circumstances in which a modern skull will develop superstructures, in either very large crania, independent of the breadth of the vault, or in very narrow ones with large teeth. The cranial superstructures are not only strongly influenced by certain cranial dimensions, but are inter-correlated in their expression. These morphological features should not be treated as independent phylogenetic traits. The majority of recent crania are relatively small and gracile, clearly the result of a common temporal trend in the evolution of modern human cranial diversity. Although not unique in their level of robusticity among recent human groups, Australian aboriginals are the only population to show a relationship between robusticity and cranial breadth. It is suggested that the total morphological pattern observed in Australia does not reflect a plesio-morphic condition, but the specific history of occupation of that continent favouring size reduction with the maintenance of robusticity. Finally, it is shown that most early modern fossils are comparatively large and robust. It is suggested that the definition of a modern cranial form should be disassociated from the concept of gracility, only observed in some recent human populations.

Implications of series-parallel sequencing rules

The need to describe systems composed of both parallel and sequential actions arises both in operating systems, where basically serial processes are organized in parallel, and in digital hardware description, where essentially parallel activities have a sequence imposed on them. The paper examines some of the properties of a specific mechanism, the series-parallel grammar, for specifying sequence information. The method is equivalent to that used for hardware description in the ISP notation of Bell and Newell [1] and to combinations of the Fork and Join primitives of Dennis and Van Horn [2]. The structure imposed by the seriesparallel constraint has useful implications for a design language translator in the areas of timing, bus assignment and conflict checking. The effects of structural constraints in design languages play a role similar to those in structured programming

Stereochemical and mechanistic aspects of the di-.pi.-methane rearrangement. Effect of structural constraints which preclude preferred modes

Stereochemical and mechanistic aspects of the di-.pi.-methane rearrangement. Effect of structural constraints which preclude preferred modes