Desired End Research Articles

Local political party presence online

Political parties use the internet, and social media in particular, for fundraising, advertising, and mobilizing to achieve desirable ends. Local parties are first and foremost organizations, and so as they make their decisions, they have to use their resources wisely. Through our analysis of over 6000 county-level Democratic and Republican parties in the United States, we find a high degree of variation in the use of social media platforms (Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram) by parties. In explaining this variation, we focus on parties as organizations and so find the choice to use social media and their overall activity on it reflects the resources available to the party organization, as well as the size of potential audience and the competitiveness of their political environment. These variables explain local Democratic parties better than they explain local Republican parties.

Information avoidance

Information is normally considered as a mean to a desired end. However, a growing theoretical and experimental literature suggested that information may directly enter the agent’s utility function. This can create an incentive to avoid information, even when it is useful, free, and independent of strategic considerations. In this study, the researchers have reviewed information avoidance, as well as theoretical and empirical researches that discussed the reasons why people avoid information, depending on the economical researches, psychological researches, and other disciplines. The study also discussed some of the diverse (and often costly) individual and societal consequences of information avoidance.

How Right-Wing Populists Engage with Cross-Cutting News on Online Message Boards: The Case of ForoCoches and Vox in Spain

Anecdotal evidence suggests a link between online message boards and the rise of far-right movements, which have achieved growing electoral success globally. Press accounts and scholarship have suggested these message boards help to radicalize like-minded users through exposure to shared media insulated from cross-cutting viewpoints (e.g., Hine et al. 2017 ; Palmer 2019). To better understand what role online message boards might play for supporters of right-wing populist movements, we focus on the Spanish political party Vox and its supporters’ use of the message board ForoCoches, a fan site for car enthusiasts, which became an important platform for the party. Using more than 120,000 messages collected from threads mentioning the party between 2013–2019, we examine the URLs shared to show how mainstream news media events shape the conversation online and how users not only were exposed but deeply engaged with cross-cutting news sources. We argue that the use of sites such as ForoCoches should be viewed in the context of a broader increasingly hybrid political and media landscape where activity online and offline cannot be understood separate from one another. Moreover, our findings suggest that the online political discussions that take place in Vox-related threads on ForoCoches resemble normatively positive deliberative spaces—albeit in this case in support of illiberal political positions. In other words, our findings complicate conventional notions about the benefits of political talk, especially online, as a democratically desirable end in and of itself.

Aerodynamic Feeding 4.0: A New Concept for Flexible Part Feeding

In modern production environments, the need for flexible handling systems constantly increases due to increasing uncertainties, shorter product life cycles and higher cost pressure. Part feeding systems are vital to modern handling systems, but conventional solutions are often characterized by low flexibility, high retooling times, and complex design. Therefore, in previous research, multiple approaches towards aerodynamic feeding technology were developed. Using air instead of mechanical chicanes to manipulate workpieces, aerodynamic feeding systems can achieve high feeding rates while at the same time being very flexible and reliable. Still, the complexity of the workpieces that can be oriented relies on the number of aerodynamic actuators used in the system. Previously developed systems either used one nozzle with a constant air jet or one nozzle and an air cushion, allowing a maximum of two orientation changes.This work presents a new concept for an aerodynamic feeding system with higher flexibility (with regard to the workpiece geometry) and drastically reduced retooling times compared to conventional feeding systems. In contrast to previous implementations of aerodynamic feeding systems, using only one air nozzle or an air cushion, the new concept uses multiple, individually controllable air nozzles. Using a simulation-based approach, the orientation process is divided into several basic rotations - from a random initial orientation to the desired end orientation - each performed by a distinct nozzle. An optimization algorithm is then used to determine an optimal layout of the air nozzles, enabling the feeding system to feed any desired workpiece, regardless of the initial orientation. With the proposed concept, high flexibility, low retooling times and relatively low costs are expected, setting up aerodynamic feeding as an enabler for changeable production environments.

Geometry-controlled instabilities for soft-soft adhesive interfaces.

Soft materials interfaces can develop complex morphologies, such as cavities or finger-like features, during separation as a result of a mechanical instability. While the onset and growth of these instabilities have been investigated previously for interfaces between rigid and soft materials, no existing predictive model provides insight for controlling the separation morphology associated with these instabilities when both "sides" of the interface are soft. Here, we expand previous models to account for the geometry and materials properties of two soft materials that form an interface. The total compliance of the system, which depends nonlinearly on the thickness of each contacting soft material, plays a primary role in governing the morphology of the separating interface. We validate this model with experimental measurements using a series of soft elastomers with varying layer thicknesses and fixed materials properties, in order to emphasize the geometry alone can give rise to the observed differences in the interface separation process. This model also demonstrates that the degree of geometric asymmetry, or the ratio of the layer thicknesses that form an interface, influences the stress experienced in either layer, thus providing a rich means of controlling how unstable interface separations develop and propagate. This framework is a powerful tool to understand and control adhesion mechanisms in fields ranging from biology to soft robotics, and provides intuition for engineering a separation mode for a desired end result.

INTERROGATING ERDOGAN’S NEO-OTTOMAN GEOPOLITICAL IMAGINATION

This paper examines the possible emergence of the neo-Ottoman geopolitical order with the Republic of Turkey at its helm under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The blueprint for this ambitious order is taken from its Ottoman antiquity. Neo-Ottomanism attempts to secure continuity with its Ottoman past by foregrounding Islam as the core theo-cultural framework to achieve the political end of constituting Islamic nations to come under one particular order. To achieve this desired end, Erdogan intensifies his endeavor and employs his tact to forge alliances with Islamic nations and promises them solidarity and mutual prosperity keeping his leadership role intact. To pursue this ambition, he expressed his belligerence against the neighboring nations such as Armenia, Greece, Cyprus, Georgia, Bulgaria, etc., which were once the constituents of the Ottoman empire and preferred interventionist policy to diplomatic cooperation. The symptoms of neo-Ottoman pre-eminence are evident in the nautical territories in the Aegean Sea, the Black Sea, the Sea of Marmara and the Mediterranean Sea. The study employs methods of analysis and scrutiny of the existing literature in the field and the related areas to achieve the objective of what constitutes Erdogan’s neo-Ottoman geopolitical imagination and to conclude as to what are the geopolitical symptoms that validate the possible emergence of the neo-Ottoman political process, and limitations that underpin the process.

Zaangażowanie aksjologiczne psychologii rozwojowej

Axiological Involvement of Developmental Psychology The paper focuses on the cognitive value of psychological knowledge about the human mind and personality development in children, adolescents and adults. It is argued that axiological engagement of developmental psychology means reference to its object of study with truth-value judgments about it. The understanding of human development entails an axiological engagement with it that is directed towards truth. Kazimierz Ajdukiewicz wrote about the significance of the anti-irrational stance in our cognition and in our actions guided by cognition toward reaching planned desirable ends within our human social world. Ajdukiewicz has pondered the epistemic value of being true or false with our knowledge; any utilitarian or pragmatic considerations or uses of it notwithstanding. It is assumed by him that one should preserve an anti-irrational stance in order to decide on the difference between true and false beliefs. It is argued that the science of psychology reduces the value of cognition to utilitarian and pragmatic values and knows next to nothing about how to identify truth and falsity of beliefs. This assertion implies an urgent need to find out how children, youth, and adults learn to deal with epistemic values of their beliefs. One should put aside the positivistic and empiricist theory of human cognition in order to open a space for a new proposal in developmental psychology. It deals with the relation of reference of beliefs of human subjects to the objects of their cognition in their social world and argues for the return to the notion of ideals in psychology in order to investigate their indispensable role in human mind and personality development.

Fast torrefaction of large biomass particles by superheated steam: Enhanced solid products for multipurpose production

Conventional torrefaction technology upgrade biomass for improved storage or as pretreatment prior to combustion or pyrolysis, and are generally performed on small-scale particles. Superheated steam (SHS) as the carrier gas and sole heat source was proposed to heat biomass rapidly and evenly while generating intensively torrefied biomass. This work revealed the potential of SHS torrefaction to upgrade large wood particles (Φ = 30 mm, H = 60 mm), to improve the feedstock suitability and expand products diversity in torrefaction technology. The effects of SHS torrefaction at different depths in large particles were investigated. A torrefaction time of 30 min was deemed capable of upgrading even the inner sections of large particle to have appropriate fuel properties. The HHV of the torrefied biomass enhanced by 50% reaching 28.76 MJ kg−1. Combustion and pyrolysis behaviour of torrefied biomass demonstrated their properties as benign fuel and pyrolysis feedstock, respectively. Moisture absorption (from 13.52 to 3.42 wt%) and grindability results (386.96–10.52 kWh ton−1) indicated that large particles from SHS torrefaction were easy for handling, transportation, and storage. The investigation of physicochemical properties at different depths of the torrefied biomass helped to understand SHS torrefaction behaviour in large biomass particles, hence, to control the reaction extent in the desired end product.

Exhibition Review: Niki de Saint Phalle: Structures for Life

Exhibition Review: <i>Niki de Saint Phalle: Structures for Life</i>

PHRÓNESIS EN FEDÓN Y PROTRÉPTICO

Beyond the open discussion about whether there is a Platonic or Academic period in Aristotle and, even, whether the Protrepticus can be included within it, in this paper we intend to highlight the interesting point –although not so often examined– of the narrow relationship between the treatment of phrón e sis in the Phaedo and in the Protrepticus . In order to do so, we will start from the analysis of the concept of phrón e sis in the Phaedo , where we find a double approach to the term that represents both the most desirable end to be achieved as well as that practical wisdom that allows us to adequately evaluate certain situations in life. Next, we will return to this double platonic aspect of phrón e sis as a means and as an end of the good life in some selected fragments of the Protrepticus to show how Aristotle adheres to the Platonic anthropological conception in terms of a guiding soul that subdues the body and whose most excellent function must be the center or télos of human life. We find that phrón e sis , in addition to allowing men to philosophize and achieve contemplation and knowledge, also exhibits a practical dimension as the foundation of the proper use of the body to live in the best possible way.

Positive Education: The Key Role of the School Counsellor

As the field of Positive Education gains traction globally, there is a recognised concern around sustainability. Many schools utilise external providers to engage and educate schools on ‘wellbeing science’, which in the main is comprised of research from the field of Positive Psychology. This often involves a significant financial and time investment, and while most schools have good intentions for their desired end states, often the initial motivation for change is impacted by the many competing responsibilities occurring within a school setting. Those schools that have successfully implemented strategic and sustainable approaches often continue to work with an external consultant who guides the school to successfully apply their learnings. Many schools, however, are unable to fund ongoing consultancy and are required to utilise their own internal resources. In many cases, this is the inspired and motivated educators who are keen to support the initiative, yet who are generally time-poor, often with other learning and extra-curricular responsibilities. More often than not, the school counsellor has not been consulted or included in these initiatives. We explore the potential role of the school counsellor in providing guidance on the implementation of a Positive Education approach aimed at improving mental health and wellbeing and performance.

Monitoring and evaluation of the surgical Potts shunt physiology using 4-dimensional flow magnetic resonance imaging

ObjectiveThe reversed Potts shunt is an increasingly applied mode of surgical palliation of severe pulmonary hypertension (PH). However, the long-term flow hemodynamic effect of the Potts shunt physiology and desirable long-term hemodynamic end points are not defined. The purpose of this descriptive study was to analyze a series of pediatric patients who underwent surgical Potts shunt as a part of end-stage PH palliation using 4-dimensional (4D)-flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to (1) quantitate the flow through the anastomosis, (2) correlate the shunting pattern with phases of cardiac cycle and PH comorbidities, and (3) describe chronologic changes in shunting pattern. MethodsThis was a 2-center study evaluating 4 patients seen in the Pulmonary Hypertension Clinic at Children's Hospital Colorado who were evaluated and selected to undergo surgical reverse Potts shunt at Washington University School of Medicine and were serially followed using comprehensive imaging including cardiac MRI and 4D-flow MRI. ResultsAfter the procedure, each child underwent 2 4D-flow MRI evaluations. Pulmonary pressure offload was evident in all patients, as demonstrated by positive systolic right-to-left flow across the Potts shunt. All patients experienced some degree of the flow reversal, which occurs primarily in diastole. Interventricular dyssynchrony further contributed to flow reversal across the Potts shunt. Lastly, systemic and pulmonary blood mixing in the descending aorta results in secondary helical flow persisting throughout the diastole. Conclusions4D-flow MRI demonstrates that children who have undergone a Potts shunt for severe PH can experience shunt flow reversal. Cumulatively, this left-to-right pulmonary shunt adds to right ventricular volume overload. We speculate that a valved conduit may decrease the left to right shunting and improve overall cardiac output.

CONSOLIDATING GAINS AND THE CONSOLIDATION AREA IN NATO DOCTRINE

Consolidating gains is an integral part of combat operations that leverages tactical, operational, and strategic level advantages to retain the initiative and create irreversible momentum towards the desired end state (TRADOC, 2017). How successfully armed forces consolidate their gains often informs the outcome for how a conflict is viewed today. Successfully consolidating gains in NATO operations have a clear impact at the tactical, operational, and strategic levels of war. By increasing the importance of consolidating gains and incorporating the consolidation area as a new geographic framework within Alliance doctrine, NATO will be better prepared to maintain the initiative, while creating the required momentum to achieve the military and political end state.

Fe-carbon hybrid composite interlayer for improved electrochemical performance of Li-S battery

The major bottlenecks in achieving the full potential of Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries are the insulating nature of sulfur and Li-polysulfide (Li-PS) shuttling which lead to their poor rate performance and cyclic stability. In this work, we solve these critical issues using a unique Fe-carbon hybrid composite interlayer prepared by the catalytic graphitization of resorcinol formaldehyde (RF) xerogel. The physicochemical characterizations of the interlayer material reveal that it consists of iron-nanoparticles encapsulated by graphitic carbon within the amorphous RF xerogel derived hard carbon matrix (Fe-G-HC-IL). The Li-S battery, with Fe-G-HC-IL as a functional separator and activated candle soot-sulfur composite cathode, demonstrates a significantly improved electrochemical performance than without the interlayer. The Li-S battery with Fe-G-HC-IL shows the capacity of 1057 mAh g−1 at 1 C-rate with a decay rate of 0.055% per cycle and excellent rate capability. Further, density functional theory (DFT) calculation indicates that the Fe embedded carbon structure present in interlayer composite contributes significantly to the improvement in the conductivity and minimization of Li-PS shuttling. Additionally, this Fe-carbon hybrid structure electro catalyzes the conversion of Li-PS to desired end products of the redox reactions which further enhance the electrochemical performance of Li–S batteries.

ENGINEERING ACTIVITIES OF THE MECHANIZED BRIGADE IN OFFENSIVE OPERATIONS

In the current context, when the dynamics of defensive and offensive operations is pronounced, which involves numerous and frequent movements and maneuvers of forces and means, modern armies attribute the primary role in ensuring their own mobility and countermobility of adversary forces which demonstrates the pronounced dynamic character of military actions. Due to the conditions and volatility of the operational environment in which the military forces must act, the engineering support is an important factor in the preparation and conduct of operations, but also in achieving the desired end state. In offensive operations, which are executed jointly, the engineer’s missions support the development of the combat environment for the maneuvering forces in contact, accelerate through mobility, tactical movement and provide the necessary infrastructure to protect their own forces.

Anisotropic Disturbance Rejection for Kinematically Redundant Systems With Applications on an UVMS

Systems with a manipulator and a mobile base, such as in aerial and underwater applications, are susceptible to disturbances which create difficulties in maintaining a desired end effector pose. However, kinematically redundant vehicle manipulator systems can make use of the continuous space of configurations to solve an inverse kinematics problem that can be exploited to improve disturbance rejection. In this letter, we explore disturbance rejection along a given direction for both a single pose, and along a trajectory. Simulated validation results are provided on an underwater vehicle manipulator system subject to environmental disturbances.

Disentangling ecosystem services preferences and values

Preferences for ecosystem services provide information on what people find important in their human-nature relationships, which can enhance environmental governance. However, preferences are ‘reason-blind’, obscuring the underlying values that shape them. Increasingly, values – concepts or beliefs about desirable end states or behaviours that transcend specific situations and guide behaviour – receive attention in environmental governance, but lack of clarity in values terminology could hamper communication and reduce the ability to successfully align governance. There is a need to disentangle preferences and values to examine whether ecosystem services preferences provide adequate information on people’s values. Seychelles provides an interesting case to study the relationship between policy, preferences, and values, due to recent neoliberal economic restructuring and emergence of the blue economy. We conducted 50 semi-structured interviews with resource users (fishers, tourism operators) and 130 population-wide Portrait Values Questionnaires to explore differences across the population and examine the link between values and preferences. We find a disconnect between ecosystem services preferences and underlying values. Exploring people’s reasons for prioritising ecosystem services can improve understanding of underlying values, contribute to reconciling conflict, and clarify impacts on communities. Newly introduced worldviews and values accompanying the blue economy have the potential to clash with collectivist values found in Seychelles. Potential mismatches need explicit discussion to make decision-making more procedurally complete, but also improve equity and public support.

A Study of Local Government in Africa through Participatory Action Research (PAR)

A Study of Local Government in Africa through Participatory Action Research (PAR)

GESTÃO DE QUALIDADE - INTRODUÇÃO DA FERRAMENTA PDCA NAS ACADEMIAS DE GINÁSTICA

This article aims to work with a quality management tool called P (plan / plan), D (do / execute), C (check / verify) and A (act / act) - PDCA, which aims to maintain a standard of excellence within the academies, always in constant evolution, improving all services and necessary aspects until reaching its goal, which is customer satisfaction with the services offered, carrying out preventive and corrective actions and the commitment of employees to their good result requiring compliance with a sequence of steps that must be developed and constantly reassessed. Thus, it is a tool for continuous improvement, in which the desired end result needs to be aligned with employees, and it can be said that, nowadays, quality is much more associated with the perception of service excellence.

From Poacher to Protector of Attention: The Therapeutic Turn of Persuasive Technology and Ethics of a Smartphone Habit-breaking Application

This paper critically investigates the ethical perspectives and practices of individuals and organizations who make persuasive technologies (“persuasive technologists”). An organization that claims to be at the forefront of ethical persuasion is behavioral software company Boundless Mind. Yet Boundless Mind sells ostensibly oxymoronic software products: an Application Programming Interface for third-party applications that optimizes the capture of end user attention, and an application for end users on how to make third-party applications less persuasive. Drawing upon Foucault’s interpretation of ethics as an “aesthetics of existence” and the related concept of “therapeutic authority,” I argue Boundless Mind justify the “poaching” and “protecting” of user attention based on a view of the human subject as fixable and their capability to instrumentalize user subjectivity to socially desirable ends. I walkthrough Boundless Mind’s technology-habit-breaking application Space and highlight a behavioral technique administered by Space called stimulus devaluation, which enables the user to develop a transformative relationship with their technology habits and persuasive applications. I conclude the paper by arguing that a persuasive technology ethics based on fixing the user obfuscates the power of persuasive technologists by limiting the scope of ethical inquiry to the activities of the user.