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This paper is a commentary regarding the journey of change in Singapore's teacher education, in particular at the National Institute of Education (NIE). Change in Singapore's teacher education follows closely the phases of school accountability in the education system. Although initial teacher education is centralised at the NIE, further teacher education and professional development are increasingly decentralised in the system. Despite the need to adapt very quickly to the needs of the profession, teacher education is built in a balanced and steady manner, so that there is both change and continuity over the years. The commentary also suggests three areas to consider regarding what lies ahead for teacher education in Singapore and NIE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global trend of ore quality degradation, which is occurring in parallel with increased production volumes of primary metals, has led to the necessity of comprehensive processing of raw materials. This involves the concentration and recycling of metallurgical technogenic wastes, which were previously considered unprofitable. In particular, this means the introduction of dump tailings and sludges from holding ponds to concentration, as well as the feeding of matured concentrates, dump, and recycled slags, and in-house low-grade reverts to metallurgical processing. The feed and the product of its concentration demonstrate an increased content of the refractory spinel phase, which has a variable composition. A share of the technogenic feed in charge of head smelting units exceeds 20%. The majority of main smelting units employ autogenous processes, such as flash smelting, liquid bath smelting, and oxygen-flash smelting. The processing of technogenic low-heat feed in autogenous smelting units results in thermal imbalance, loss of melt homogeneity, and, consequently, disrupts the discharge of smelting products, potentially leading to complete shutdown of the unit. Such behavior is typical for both types of autogenous units operated in the Nornickel Polar Division, namely the Vanukov furnace and the flash smelting furnace. The issue of melt heterogeneity and the formation of refractory accretion at problem areas of the flash smelting furnace is widely known and sufficiently investigated in foreign literature as well as by the authors of this paper. However, further investigation is required for the Vanukov furnace, with a particular focus on the formation mechanism of the intermediate layer phase in the melt. This investigation should aim to develop effective mitigation strategies to address the adverse impact of this phase formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clinical staging, already widespread in medicine, represents a new frontier in psychiatry. Our goal was to convert the existing theoretical staging model for schizophrenia into a feasible tool to have a timely assessment of patients' health status applicable in any psychiatric facility. Methods: We assessed the empirical soundness of a staging model for schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs), primarily centered on their current status. This model delineated six sequential stages (1, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, and 4) based on factors like symptom recurrence, persistence, and progression, including functional decline. Our analysis involved data from 137 individuals affected by SSDs. We examined 22 baseline variables, 23 construct-related variables, and 31 potentially modifiable clinical variables. Results: The latter stages demonstrated significantly poorer outcomes compared to the early stages across various measures, indicating medium to large effect sizes and a dose-response pattern. This pattern confirmed the validity of the model. Notably, stages 2 and 3A exhibited pronounced differences in comparison to other stages, although variables from each validation category also distinguished between consecutive stages, particularly 3A and beyond. Conclusion: Baseline predictors, such as familial predisposition to schizophrenia, neurodevelopmental impairment, childhood adversities, treatment delay, negative symptoms, neurological impairment, and inadequate early response to treatment, independently largely explained the staging variance. The clinical staging model, grounded in the extended course of psychosis, exhibited sound validity and feasibility, even without the use of biological or neuroimaging markers, which could greatly improve the sensitivity of the model. These findings provide insights into stage indicators and predictors of clinical stages from the onset of psychosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the structure of the legal liability concept, genesis of the relevant institute of law. It can be traced from various sources, for example: from legal systems, moral principles, etc. Legal systems are the basis of any properly organized societies, a set of interdependent and coordinated legal means and social relations. There are: the national legal system of Ukraine, the supranational legal system of the European Union, and the religious systems. Moral principles are the basic foundation of the idea of general human behavior, on which the principal, most important moral norms are based, and the spirit of the law and its letter are derived from these norms. Liability in law is defined as the application of state coercive measures to the guilty person for the committed offense. It is considered obligatory to have negative consequences for the offender. However, according to this definition, the process of restoration of the violated right is not provided, which is crucial. Liability must cause legal damage, burden the offender as a means of education and is by no means limited to the forced fulfillment of a single obligation that he or she did not voluntarily fulfill for some reason. The author also surveys the term «constitution» in different periods of its use. Its historical origins, in particular, in the Ancient World are exemined. Also, among other things, the author considers the question of the origins (sources) of not only legal but also other types of social liability. The considered documents are: Athenian Politics, Corpus Juris Civilis, constitutional acts of Great Britain, Apostolic (Papal) Constitutions, etc. The main conclusions of the study are as follows: The sources of both legal and other types of social liability are weighed. The author offers his own comprehension of the public-private approach to the constitutional liability institute and a periodization of the constitutional tort (delict) understanding in Ukraine. It is emphasized that the Ukrainian doctrine, its approaches and vision differ from the approaches used in the USSR or currently used in the Republic of Poland or other EU Member States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the design, phase identification, and microstructural properties of high-entropy alloy (HEA)-reinforced aluminium (Al) matrix composites. Thermophysical expressions for HEAs were employed during the design phase of the HEA; both theoretical frameworks and experimental analyses were used to anticipate stable phases while a field-assisted sintering technique was employed to consolidate the samples. Calculation of phase diagram (CALPHAD) predictions for the phases present in the HEA align with valence electron concentration (VEC) calculations as both predicted the presence of BCC and FCC phases. The microhardness results reveal a substantial increase in the hardness value of the composites as compared to the pure Al, such that as low as 5 wt% HEA addition resulted in over a 100% improvement, while the densification of the composites was found to decrease with an increase in the wt% of HEA. SEM micrographs and XRD analyses show fair dispersion, bonding, and phase integration in the HEA-reinforced composites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The direct laser melting of plasma sprayed bond coat has the possibility of improving the surface topography and can be done with Yb:YAG laser. In the current paper, laser melting of plasma sprayed coatings of 50 wt. % standard Amdry 963 (Ni24.5Cr6Al0.4Y) and 50 wt. % standard Amdry 9621 (Ni22Cr10AlY) was carried out by using 600 W continuous wave Yb:YAG laser. Notably, the obtained melted tracks were investigated from the upper surface plan view and transverse section. The topography, microstructure, phases, hardness, and compositions of the plasma sprayed coatings and laserremelted tracks were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), roughness, and microhardness. By controlling the dependent laser variables (power density and interaction time), a different effect can be obtained for the plasma sprayed bond coating (NiCrAlY). Typically, the results obtained show that at low specific energies, four different distinct zones were observed. These specific energies were not sufficient to produce a uniform melting. The MCrAlY coatings remelted with high specific energies were characterized by completely uniform melting and cellular/dendritic microstructures. The melted coatings have high roughness reduction (1.2 μm) and low hardness (275 HV0.5) in comparison with plasma-sprayed coatings (10.5 μm) and (315 HV0.5) respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Mexicana de Ciencias Politicas y Sociales is the property of Revista Mexicana de Ciencias Politicas y Sociales and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is considered a construct of great heuristic value and has attracted the attention of numerous researchers and inspired influential theoretical models. The objective of the present study was to provide an upto-date, comparative and integrated description of the theoretical models of SRL used in current empirical research. For this purpose, we conducted a critical review of the scientific literature referring explicitly to any SRL model and we described, compared and integrated the processes and personal and situational dimensions considered in each model. The models have clearly evolved from focusing on cold self-regulation, conscious activity and individual functioning, to emphasising hot self-regulation and considering implicit activity and interindividual functioning. Among empirical research lines based on the most recent models, the following stand out: detailed analysis of SRL during its progress, the manifestation of SRL in diverse instructional formats and the role of affective/motivational self-regulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By examining local subject A'-movement, the paper argues for a split IP and a contextual approach to the EPP where its locus is not a fixed, unique position, but varies depending on the syntactic context. The landing site of subject wh-movement (wholeft) is argued to be lower than non-subject wh-movement (whodid he leave) but higher than regular subjects (Amyleft). Quirky subjects are argued to be lower than agreeing subjects, with a generalization proposed regarding their availability. The overall account is extended to many cases, including V-2 in Germanic, subject-restricted relativizations, only-subjects, Defaka focus-movement, Hong Kong Sign Language wh-movement, imperative and CP subjects, locative inversion, Singlish non-agreeing subjects, Japanese and Chinese subjects. Regarding the EPP, the paper argues for a contextual approach where, on a par with a contextual approach to phases, there is an EPP domain, with the highest projection in the EPP domain being the locus of the EPP (on a par with the highest projection in a phasal domain being a phase). This conception of the EPP is put into a broader perspective regarding a more general move toward contextuality in syntax. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Treatment decisions for unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) pose a challenge for neurosurgeons, prompting the development of clinical scales assessing hemorrhage risk to provide management guidance. This study compares recommendations from the PHASES and UIA treatment scores (UIATS) applied to anterior communicating artery (AComA) UIAs against real-world management. Methods: While UIATS recommends management, for PHASES, an aneurysm with score of 10 or more was considered "high-risk". Analysis involved assessing the concordance in each group alongside comparison to real-word management. Results: Among 129 patients, 46.5% were observed and 53.5% were treated. PHASES scores were significantly higher in the treatment group (p = 0.00002), and UIATS recommendations correlated with real-world decisions (p < 0.001). We observed no difference in the frequencies of UIATS recommendations between high- and low-risk groups. When comparing the UIATS and PHASES, 33% of high-risk aneurysms received a UIATS conservative management recommendation. In 39% of high-risk aneurysms, the UIATS recommendation was not definitive. Conversely, 27% of low-risk aneurysms obtained a UIATS UIA repair recommendation. Overall, concordance between PHASES and UIATS was 32%. Conclusions: Significant discordance in therapeutic suggestions underscores the predominant influence of center experience and individual assessments. Future studies should refine and validate decision-making strategies, potentially exploring alternative applications or developing tailored scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Handball is a team sport that involves fourteen players who are attempting to score more goals than their opponent within two thirty-minute halves. A biomechanical analysis based on measuring the kinematics of jump throws could provide us with information on the ball's velocity, the maximal internal rotation of the trunk, and the trunk's flexion, as well as the angular velocity of the ball during shoulder rotation. The main aim of this study was to determine the wrist velocity during jump throws and standing throws without a run-up. The trunk, arm rotation, and wrist velocity will influence the speed of the ball during throwing. This case study included a senior-grade male handball player aged 18.75 years with a body mass index (BMI) of 25.5. The biomechanical evaluation was carried out using a three-dimensional Vicon system. The biomechanical analysis consisted of an evaluation of angular trunk velocity, angular arm rotation velocity, and wrist velocity during two types of throwing: jump throws and standing throws without a run-up. The data were recorded for standing throws without a run-up (S1) and jump throws (S2). For each situation, we measured two phases due to the great variation in the kinematic parameters. Phase 1 (F1) occurred when the elbow angle was 90°, up to the moment when the wrist had an inflection of its trajectory, and Phase 2 (F2) finished when the wrist's velocity reached its maximum. The results regarding the angular velocity of the trunk torsion showed a high value of this parameter during Phase F2 compared to Phase F1 for both types of throws (S1 and S2). The angular velocity of the arm rotation achieved its maximum value in F2 during S2, and the wrist velocity was highest during Phases F2 and S2. The correlation analysis demonstrated that there was a good correlation between the angular velocity of the trunk torsion and the angular velocity of the arm rotation for S1 in Phase F1; however, in Phase F2, we found a good correlation between the angular velocity of the trunk torsion and wrist velocity. For S2, we found that in Phase F1, there was a good correlation between the angular velocity of the trunk torsion and wrist velocity; however, for Phase F2, there was a good correlation between the angular velocity of the arm's rotation and wrist velocity. Therefore, the results from this case study indicate that the wrist velocity is influenced by the other two kinematic parameters, especially the angular velocity of the arm's rotation. This means that the development of explosive force in the muscles of the trunk and arm could improve the wrist's velocity and also increase the optimization of throwing in handball. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) exhibit remarkable properties that are strongly influenced by their atomic structures, as well as by various types of defects and interfaces that can be precisely engineered and controlled. These features make 2D TMDs and TMD‐based materials highly promising for a wide range of applications in electronics, optoelectronics, magnetism, spintronics, catalysis, energy, etc. By providing a comprehensive approach to understand the structure–property–functionality relationship in materials at the atomic scale, electron microscopy, and spectroscopy techniques have emerged as invaluable tools for studying both the static characteristics and dynamic evolutions of 2D TMDs. In this review, the primary focus lies in exploring intrinsic and artificial structures in TMDs and their heterostructures, along with their corresponding properties, through cutting‐edge aberration‐corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). Additionally, recent advancements in the field of in situ visualization and manipulation of 2D TMDs using electron beams are highlighted. It is anticipated that the up‐to‐date overview provided, along with a glimpse into the future development of STEM‐based techniques, will make a substantial contribution to advancing research on 2D materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Retos: Nuevas Perspectivas de Educación Física, Deporte y Recreación is the property of Federacion Espanola de Asociaciones de Docentes de Educacion Fisica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Agricultural wastes and their valorization are at the heart of the EU policies related to the circular bioeconomy. Conversion of those wastes to products could be made through composting followed by vermicomposting. As the effectiveness mostly depends on the microorganisms involved, we aimed to identify the prokaryotic microbiome associated with four composting phases and one vermicomposting phase of wheat straw and cow manure composting. We used 16S rDNA PCR amplicon evaluation with the Illumina metagenomic technique generating a total of 653,057 sequences reads from the samples. Temperature had major role in the composting bacteriome changes influencing positively species abundance, Shannon and Simpson indices, and negatively Ace and Chao1. A reduction of C:N ratio from 25.94 to 14.24 and of pH and EC from 8.63 to 7.8 and from 2.26 mS.cm-1 to 1.7 mS.cm-1, respectively, were observed. Phylum Firmicutes (62%) and Actinobacteria (14%) prevailed in the source material (SM), while Proteobacteria (51%) and Bacteroidetes (8%) dominated in the first mesophilic phase (MP). Similarly to the SM, the thermophilic prokaryotes (TP) were represented by Firmicutes (54%) and Actinobacteria (9%), but also by Proteobacteria (6%). Principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) showed a significant weight of the total variation of bacterial taxa (PC1-68.16% and PC2-23.46%. Thus PCoA grouped together SM and TP, by one site, and both mesophilic phases and the vermicompost (COMP). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we first define the phases of a sectorial operator based on the numerical range. We are interested in the estimation of the spectrum phases of AB based on the phases of two sectorial operators A and B. Motivated by the classical small gain theorem, we formulate an operator small phase theorem with necessity for the invertibility of I + A B , which plays a crucial role in feedback stability analysis. Afterwards, we consider the special class of sectorial operators of the form P + K , where P is strictly positive and K is compact. More properties of the phases for those operators are studied, including those of compressions, Schur complements, operator means and products. Finally, for the special class of sectorial operators, we further establish a majorization relation between the phases of the spectrum of AB and the phases of two operators A and B. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pivotal role of metal implants within the host's body following reconstructive surgery hinges primarily on the initial phase of the process: the adhesion of host cells to the implant's surface and the subsequent colonization by these cells. Notably, titanium alloys represent a significant class of materials used for crafting metal implants. This study, however, marks the first investigation into how the phase composition of titanium alloys, encompassing the volume fractions of the α, β, and ω phases, influences cell adhesion to the implant's surface. Moreover, the research delves into the examination of induced hemolysis and cytotoxicity. To manipulate the phase composition of titanium alloys, various parameters were altered, including the chemical composition of titanium alloys with iron and niobium, annealing temperature, and high-pressure torsion parameters. By systematically adjusting these experimental parameters, we were able to discern the distinct impact of phase composition. As a result, the study unveiled that the colonization of the surfaces of the examined Ti–Nb and Ti–Fe alloys by human multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells exhibits an upward trend with the increasing proportion of the ω phase, concurrently accompanied by a decrease in the α and β phases. These findings signify a new avenue for advancing Ti-based alloys for both permanent implants and temporary fixtures, capitalizing on the ability to regulate the volume fractions of the α, β, and ω phases. Furthermore, the promising characteristics of the ω phase suggest the potential emergence of a third generation of biocompatible Ti alloys, the ω-based materials, following the first-generation α-Ti alloys and second-generation β alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern magnesium-based alloys are broadly used in various industries as well as for biodegradable medical implants due to their exceptional combination of light weight, strength, and plasticity. The studied ZEK100 alloy had a nominal composition of 1 wt.% zinc, 0.1 wt.% zirconium, and 0.1 wt.% rare earth metals (REMs) such as Y, Ce, Nd, and La, with the remainder being Mg. It has been observed that between the solidus (Ts = 529.5 ± 0.5 °C) and liquidus temperature (Tl = 645 ± 5 °C), the Mg/Mg grain boundaries can contain either the droplets of a melt (incomplete or partial wetting) or the continuous liquid layers separating the abutting Mg grains (complete wetting). With the temperature increasing from Ts to Tl, the transformation proceeds from incomplete to complete grain boundary wetting. Below 565 °C, all grain boundaries are partially wetted by the melt. Above 565 °C, the completely wetted Mg/Mg grain boundaries appear. Their portion grows quickly with an increasing temperature until reaching 100% at 622 °C. Above 622 °C, all the solid Mg grains are completely surrounded by the melt. After rapid solidification, the REM-rich melt forms brittle intermetallic compounds. The compression strength as well as the compression yield strength parameter σ02 strongly depend on the morphology of the grain boundary layers. If the hard and brittle intermetallic phase has the shape of separated particles (partial wetting), the overall compression strength is about 341 MPa and σ02 = 101 MPa. If the polycrystal contains the continous intergarnular layers of the brittle intermetallic phase (complete wetting), the overall compression strength drops to 247 Mpa and σ02 to 40 Mpa. We for the first time observed, therefore, that the grain boundary wetting phenomena can strongly influence the mechanical properties of a polycrystal. Therefore, grain boundary wetting can be used for tailoring the behavior of materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magnesium-based alloys are highly sought after in the industry due to their lightweight and reliable strength. However, the hexagonal crystal structure of magnesium results in the mechanical properties' anisotropy. This anisotropy is effectively addressed by alloying magnesium with elements like zirconium, zinc, and rare earth metals (REM). The addition of these elements promotes rapid seed formation, yielding small grains with a uniform orientation distribution, thereby reducing anisotropy. Despite these benefits, the formation of intermetallic phases (IP) containing Zn, Zr, and REM within the microstructure can be a concern. Some of these IP phases can be exceedingly hard and brittle, thus weakening the material by providing easy pathways for crack propagation along grain boundaries (GBs). This issue becomes particularly significant if intermetallic phases form continuous layers along the entire GB between two neighboring GB triple junctions, a phenomenon known as complete GB wetting. To mitigate the risks associated with complete GB wetting and prevent the weakening of the alloy's structure, understanding the potential occurrence of a GB wetting phase transition and how to control continuous GB layers of IP phases becomes crucial. In the investigation of a commercial magnesium alloy, ZEK100, the GB wetting phase transition (i.e., between complete and partial GB wetting) was successfully studied and confirmed. Notably, complete GB wetting was observed at temperatures near the liquidus point of the alloy. However, at lower temperatures, a coexistence of a nano-scaled precipitate film and bulk particles with nonzero contact angles within the same GB was observed. This insight into the wetting transition characteristics holds potential to expand the range of applications for the present alloy in the industry. By understanding and controlling GB wetting phenomena, the alloy's mechanical properties and structural integrity can be enhanced, paving the way for its wider utilization in various industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The simultaneous sputtering of Ti and Pb cathodes of two separate magnetrons on titanium alloy VT6 is used to obtain composite solid lubricating coatings of TiN–Pb with a thickness of ~2 μm. The Pb content in the coating averages ~12 at %. The inner layer of the coating is characterized by the uniform distribution of Pb, and the upper layer is characterized by the presence of islands with a high content of Pb. The coating structure is globular, predominantly containing nanoscale crystallites. The absence of a columnar structure of the coating is associated with a high content of Pb, which is insoluble in the TiN matrix and interrupts the growth of crystallites. X-ray diffraction analysis showed the presence of Pb, PbO, and TiN phases in the coatings. The diffraction lines are broadened, which indicates that the crystallite size is ~10–20 nm in the coating. Tribological tests of the TiN–Pb coating are carried out under conditions of low-amplitude friction (fretting wear) in a wide range of loading parameters. In the full sliding mode, a friction coefficient of ~0.25 is observed. During transition from the full sliding mode to the reciprocating sliding mode, the energy dissipated during friction drops by more than three times, which is also reflected in a sharp decrease in the friction coefficient from 0.25 to 0.05. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of biocompatible and biomechanical compatible metallic biomaterials is essential to fulfilling the needs of humanity, such as enhancing the lifespan and quality of human life and relieving pain. Biocompatibility resulting from non-toxic alloying elements and biomechanical compatibility resulting from low elastic modulus are crucial factors influencing the performance and service life of a biomedical implant. β-Ti alloys are the potential choice for biomedical load-bearing applications owing to their low elastic modulus and non-toxic alloying elements. Although the elastic modulus of β-Ti alloys is lesser than that of other metallic biomaterials, it is still greater than that of bone. So, there is a great demand for the synthesis of β-Ti alloys with low elastic modulus. Various phases significantly affect the elastic modulus of β-Ti alloys. Developing low elastic modulus β-Ti alloys through trial-and-error testing leads to more time-consuming and economically not feasible. So, this review article discusses various phases and alloy design methods for synthesising β-Ti alloys with low elastic modulus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the help of wire arc additive manufacturing, a high-entropy alloy of AlCrFeCoNi was prepared: of a non-equiatomic composition, on which a B + Cr film with a thickness of ~1 μm was deposited by plasma-assisted RF sputtering. Subsequent processing consisted in electron-beam irradiation of the surface with the following parameters: energy density 20–40 J/cm2, pulse duration 200 μs, frequency 0.3 s–1, and number of pulses 3. A quasi-periodic distribution of chemical elements (at %) 33.4 Al, 8.3 Cr, 17.1 Fe, 5.4 Co, and 35.7 Ni is established. It is shown that, at the energy density of the electron beam Es = 20 J/cm2, the microhardness increases by a factor of two and the wear resistance by a factor of five, and the friction coefficient decreases by a factor of 1.3. High-speed crystallization of the surface layer leads to the formation of a subgrain structure with subgrain sizes (150–200 nm). The increase in strength and tribological properties during electron-beam processing is interpreted taking into account the reduction in grain size, the formation of chromium and aluminum oxyborides, and the formation of a solid solution of boron incorporation into the HEA crystal lattice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ancient Egyptians celebrated the wЗgj feast, an integral part of the Osirian cult. Data from the Illahun archive evidence that there were two instances of it: a fixed one, which fell on a specific civil date, and a movable one associated with a specific phase of the moon. There is disagreement about the lunar day and month on which the movable feast took place. The aggregation of the Illahun lunar dates into a 'date net' indicates that the disagreement is due both to peculiarities of the datasets of previous studies and to the incorrect numeration of lunar days in Parker's list, which has been the standard for more than 70 years. Analysis of the lists of lunar days from the Ptolemaic Period also reveals the erroneous position of one of the days; when it is set to the proper position, the symmetry of the phases relative to the day of full moon improves. Based on the corrected numeration of lunar days, it is concluded that the movable wЗgj in the original list fell on the 17th day of the second month after the emergence of Sopdet (the heliacal rising of Sirius in modern terms). Further research is needed to examine the effect of the proposed correction on the chronology of the Middle Kingdom. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article analyses data for chemical composition, manufacturing and processing methods for promising heat-resistant alloys based upon orthorhombic titanium intermetallic Ti2AlNb (O-alloys) developed within Russia and abroad. Phase diagrams typical for alloys based upon Ti–Al–Nb and general data for the phases formed in these alloys are provided. Concepts of aluminum and niobium equivalents used for multicomponent alloys are considered. The effect of alloying elements on a combination of mechanical properties of O-alloys, alloying principles, and compositions of the alloys developed are summarized. Characteristics of phase transformations occurring within alloys during heat treatment, including continuous heating and isothermal treatment, are provided. Typical microstructures of the alloys are presented; processing methods for their production and the influence of structural parameters on a combination of properties are described. Methods for manufacturing and processing routes of O-alloys are presented, which provide a good set of properties at room and elevated temperatures, as well as possible operating temperatures for refractory use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface treatment of metals by pulsed laser radiation in the range of colored oxide structure formation makes it possible to obtain a quasi-amorphous nanostructured layer. Metal surface oxide films of different chemical and mechanical structure are formed under laser action. They determine, in addition to surface microgeometry, its coloring. Currently, there is no single opinion about the composition of oxide films formed on the surface of metals as a result of laser processing. Therefore, determination of the conformity of oxide film composition to a certain color formation is of scientific and practical interest. The object of research is specified areas of a 12Kh18N10T steel surface, painted in contrasting colors as a result of laser marking with different parameters. As a result of the study, the chemical and phase composition of oxide films for coloring a metal surface are determined with prescribed laser marking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-entropy alloys (HEAs) have attracted many researchers in the last few decades due to their remarkable properties like high strength, hardness, corrosion resistance, good formability, etc. The present review is based on the mechanical properties of HEAs, as it is important to know the relevant properties of any alloy before selecting it for any application. This review accentuates on the factors affecting the mechanical properties (tensile strength, compressive strength, hardness) of HEAs such as alloying elements, phases and heat treatment. Moreover, it is also endeavored to unfold research gaps pertinent to this domain. Consequently, it is deduced that there is very limited volume of literatures in the fields of vibration, hot tensile and creep incorporating potential alloying elements such as zinc and boron with HEAs. Also, there is scarcity of literature on determination of tensile properties of HEAs. Further, HEAs can be strengthened by implementing potential strengthening mechanisms like oxide dispersion strengthening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the unique functional properties of shape memory alloys (SMAs) and current scientific interest in Cu-containing biomaterials, a continuously cast Cu-Al-Ni alloy in the form of rods has been investigated as a potential candidate for biomedical application. Additionally, the fact that Cu- complexes have an antitumour effect served as a cornerstone to develop more efficient drugs based on trace element complexes. In line with that, our study aimed to analyse the basic properties of the Cu-Al-Ni alloy, along with its anticancer properties. The detailed chemical analysis of the Cu-Al-Ni alloy was performed using XRF and SEM/EDX analyses. Furthermore, a microstructural and structure investigation was carried out, combined with hardness measurements using the static Vickers method. Observations have shown that the Cu-Al-Ni microstructure is homogeneous, with the presence of typical martensitic laths. XRD analysis confirmed the presence of two phases, β′ (monoclinic) and γ′ (orthorhombic). The viability of osteosarcoma cells in contact with the Cu-Al-Ni alloy was evaluated using epifluorescence microscopy, while their morphology and attachment pattern were observed and analysed using a high-resolution SEM microscope. Biocompatibility testing showed that the Cu-Al-Ni alloy exerted a considerable antineoplastic effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, 2D materials—MaXb with different compositions and phases have attracted tremendous attention due to their diverse structures and electronic features. The common thermodynamically stable 2H and metastable 1T phases have been extensively studied, however, there are many unusual compositions and phases with novel physical properties that have yet to be explored. Therefore, summarization of the synthesis strategies, atomic structures, and the unique physical properties of 2D materials with different compositions and phases is very important for their development. In this review, the strategies including chemical vapor deposition, intercalation, atomic layer deposition, chemical vapor transport, and electrostatic gating for synthesizing various 2D materials with different phases and compositions are first summarized. Specially, the intercalation strategies including heterogeneous‐ and self‐intercalation for controllable phases and compositions fabrication are mainly discussed. Then, the novel atomic structures of 2D materials are analyzed, followed by the fascinating physical properties including ferroelectricity, ferromagnetism, superconductivity, and so on. Finally, the conclusion and outlook are offered including the challenges and future prospects of 2D materials with different compositions and phases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research is to analyze the fundamentals of kinematic structures in the starting element of motocross (Dirt Bike). To analyze the dynamic structures of movements, such as starting acceleration, linear velocity, criteria for the optimality of starting acceleration as the main factor for successful ranking in the competition. To determine the influence of the Center of Gravity of the pilot, on the successful control of the kinematic structures of the element of starting, to achieve a rational launching technique. We used the cinematic method (cyclogram analysis) to make a biomechanical analysis of the kinematic parameters of the "start" element in motocross. We shot photographic material, which is necessary for the analytical determination of the General Center of Gravity of the racer and the sports device (motorcycle). We determined the trajectory of the CG movement and the phases of the "start" element in the accelerating linear motion. The subject of research is the change in the kinematic parameters of the movements when performing a "start" in motocross. Participants in the research are six motocross racers, height 178.7±7.47 cm, weight 79.17±9.36 kg, age 32.17±8.84 y. (M±SD), BMI of 24.7 kg/m² . We used a Go Pro HERO11 Black Cinematic 5.3K60 + 2.7K240 camera to capture the stills. Graphic processing was done with PAINT 3D program, Windows 10. For the statistical analysis of the data, we used GraphPad Prism version 3.0 software. In motocross, the simplified technical inventory leads to greater mobility and precise control of the machine in the specifics of the race track. That is why we hope to clarify some kinesiological regularities transferred to the „pilot-motorcycle“ system. Accurate and precise description of the movement and definition of its main task. The competitor's position is seated, semi-seated or semi-standing depending on the acceleration phases at the start. The palms are in a grip on the handlebars. The feet are placed on the foot pegs. The torso is bent forward. The movement is translational and follows the relief of the race track. We have identified five main phases of starting in motocross: 1) body positioning phase; 2) phase of the acceleration; 3) phase of the maximum acceleration; 4) phase of the maximum speed; 5) phase of occupying position for a corridor. For the successful performance of the competitor, an important point in the start is to avoid rolling, the loss traction and begin to slide, rear drive wheel in the starting position. The optimal range of linear acceleration at which the rear wheel will not lose traction was determined, namely from a = 2.77 m/s² to 12.96 m/s² . We also determined the rear wheel load of 166.62 kg when accelerating from a standstill. This shows that the overload is about 76 kg more than the pressure that the rear wheel takes at rest. The load data of front wheel load show values of 38.78 kg on launch acceleration, which is a reduction in ground reaction force of around 50 kg. After evaluating the kinematics of the motocross riding posture, we found that the rider's upright posture gave the deceptive impression of lowering the overall center of gravity, when in fact it was the exact opposite. In fact, the rider's semi-upright position increases the height of the Center of Gravity and gives more precise control over the handling of the dynamic rider-motorcycle system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to modify the microstructure and enhance the mechanical properties, the influence of trace amount modified SiC nanoparticles on the as‐cast ZA27alloy is investigated. The results indicate that the original coarse and developed dendrites are refined gradually and turn into fine and uniform equiaxed crystals and spherical structures. The primary α(Al) phases, eutectoid(α + η) phases, and ε(CuZn4) phases are also refined. The planar disregistry calculations between 6H‐SiC and α(Al) show that 6H‐SiC is an effective heterogeneous nucleus substrate for α(Al). The refined mechanism of modified SiC nanoparticles on ZA27 alloy is also discussed. When the addition is 0.5%, the tensile strength is increased by 6.5% and elongation is increased by 12.7%. The yield strength of SiC nanoparticles reinforced ZA27 is discussed quantitatively to reveal the strengthening mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work is devoted to the visualization and evolution of κ1-phase particles in annealed proton exchange (PE) waveguides. It is well-known that the presence of κ1-phase particles in optical waveguides leads to an increase in their optical losses and instability of operation. It has been found that precipitated κ1-phase particles propagate through the whole waveguide depth and have perpendicular orientation to the surface of the lithium niobate crystal. These results are important for fast quality control of annealed PE waveguides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ternary Cr-Fe-Si system was investigated with X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and electron diffraction. Samples melted at 1723 K were examined right after cooling or after annealing at 1073 K for 3 days to determine phases, grain sizes, and interphase interfaces. During annealing, a polymorphic transformation of the tetragonal α-FeSi2 to the orthorhombic β-FeSi2 phase occurs, while CrSi2 retains its hexagonal structure at high-temperature treatment. Thin layers of ε-FeSi with a cubic structure were observed and identified within the CrSi2 grains. Crystallographic orientation relationships are determined at the interphase interfaces. The contributions of lattice mismatch and thermal expansion coefficient misfit to deformation are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grano and Lasnik (2008) argue that phases should be extended if features are still unvalued on the complement of a phase head at the end of what would normally be a phase. Thus, if pronouns are bound variables with unvalued features, then the phase that matters for resolving the unvalued features is extended. However, the one case that their generalization should not cover, namely, local anaphora, suggests that phase extension based on unvalued features is not the right explanation of the bound pronoun effect, and that phases for anaphora are not coordinated with phases that restrict the relations that the bound pronoun effect encompasses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Preparing ceramic materials is a meaningful way to treat and utilize industrial slags. In this work, high-performance and low-deformation industrial slag ceramics were prepared from Ti-extraction blast furnace slag and illitic clay. The phase composition and contents, microstructure, physical properties, and pyroplastic deformation of ceramic samples were investigated. With the increasing proportion of illitic clay, the main crystalline phase of ceramic samples changed from akermanite to Fe-bearing diopside. Moreover, the minor crystalline phases changed from perovskite and spinel to anorthite and titanite. The proportion of illitic clay was linearly related to the amorphous phase content. The dense microstructure comprised concentrated short-columnar and granular grains with a few isolated pores, whereas plate-like grains destroyed their denseness. An appropriate proportion of illitic clay helped to improve the physical properties, increase the high-temperature viscosity and reduce the deformation of the ceramics. The optimal proportion of illitic clay was 30%, and the prepared ceramic sample had a dense microstructure and excellent physical properties. Its bulk density was 2.82 g/cm3, bending strength was 62.17 MPa, and water absorption was 0.21%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Base metal sulfides (Fe–Ni–Cu–S) are ubiquitous phases in mantle and subduction-related lithologies. Sulfides in the mantle often melt incongruently, which leads to the production of a Cu–Ni-rich sulfide melt and leaves a solid residue called monosulfide solid solution (mss). However, the persistence of crystalline sulfide phases like mss in the Earth's mantle at higher temperatures and pressures deep within the Earth has long been up for debate, as the presence of both mss and sulfide melt in mantle rocks implies the fractionation of chalcophile elements during mantle melting. Recent studies have shown that the average mantle sulfide (45 wt.% Fe, 16 wt.% Ni, 1 wt.% Cu, and 38 wt.% S), is fully molten at average mantle potential temperatures (1300–1400 ∘ C) up to 8 GPa (ca. 240 km). However, sulfide inclusions found in diamonds show a broad compositional spectrum, ranging from Ni-poor and Fe-rich (eclogitic), to Ni-rich and Fe-poor sulfides (peridotitic), with their Cu contents being generally low. The wide compositional variety of diamond-hosted sulfide inclusions raises the possibility that results on the melting properties obtained from this average mantle sulfide compositional may not reflect that found in those inclusions. As such, further investigation of the melting properties of sulfides from a wide compositional range is necessary. Here, we present the results of an experimental study where the melting properties of typical sulfide compositions found in diamond inclusions associated with eclogites and peridotites have been determined. Experiments have been carried out between 0.1 MPa and 14 GPa, and between 920 and 1590 ∘ C, on box muffle furnaces, end-loaded piston cylinder, and multi-anvil apparatuses. Results show that solid mss in Fe-rich, Ni-poor sulfide inclusions associated with eclogites persist to higher pressures and temperatures compared to their less-refractory, more Ni-rich peridotitic counterparts to the depth of the mantle transition zone (410 km depth). Our results have implications for the recycling of chalcophile elements during subduction-related processes and the entrapment of sulfides in diamonds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The analysis of the literature on bioactive surfaces of volume implants and plasma coatings on their surface is performed. The influence of the porous sizes on the process of growing new bone in an implant surface is described. The traditional porous structure of a plasma titanic coating, which is formed owing to a decrease in extent of deformation of spraying particles on a substrate, is not optimum for growing of a new bone tissue. Modern dense hydroxyapatite (HA)-titanium coatings do not have the necessary porous structure, and transfer of cyclic loading through an external layer is not reliable. At the same time, comparative studies of 17 surfaces of implants indicate obvious advantages of plasma HA coatings during implantation, which are not dependent on the degree of their crystallinity. Three-dimensional capillary-porous (TCP) titanium coatings in the form of ridges and cavities with additional HA plasma and microplasma coatings are prospective for medical application owing to division of dense and porous volumes of a coating, increase in the area of the border with a new bone tissue, higher shear, and the possibility of spraying of the HA coating with equilibrium structure at a temperature of the surface of titanium of 550°C. The analysis of HA coating content phase is made depending on the modes of plasma spraying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the negative implications for their own health, spouses continue to support each other and maintain their couplehood for as long as possible, including when one of them develops a severe illness. However, with some exceptions, the experiences of older male spousal caregivers have been largely overlooked, and our knowledge of the relational aspects of spousal dementia care is scarce. To respond to this knowledge gap, this article explores the following research questions: How do older male spousal caregivers of wives with dementia talk about changes in their couplehood? What transitions or phases in the relationship can be identified as the caring process evolves and the wife's health continues to deteriorate? To answer these questions, we analyse in‐depth interviews with eight purposefully selected men aged 67–92 years old from Iceland and Norway. Our findings reveal that the participants felt that they were gradually losing their couplehood in the sense that they lost their shared everyday life routines, intimacy, joint activities, meaningful communication, and dreams and hopes for the future. Four phases of the dementia caring process were identified: the denial phase, the battle phase, the new reality phase and the redefinition phase. We hope that our findings spur more research on relational challenges as experienced by spouses caring for partners with cognitive decline. In conclusion, we argue that interdisciplinary clinical guidelines for a couple‐centred approach in elder care should be developed to urge professional care providers to pay attention to the various changes and challenges that dementia couples undergo to meet not only the health and care needs of dementia patients but also those of their spouses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metastable β-Ti alloys have become one of the most attractive implant materials due to their high biocorrosion resistance, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties, including lower Young's modulus values. Mechanical properties of these alloys are strongly dependent on the final microstructure, which is controlled by thermomechanical treatment processing, in particular the Young's modulus and hardness. The aim of this work was to analyze the influence of phase precipitations in heat-treated Ti-12Mo-xNb (x = 0, 3, 8, 13, 17, and 20) alloys. The alloys were prepared via arc melting and treated at 950 °C/1 h, and then quenched in water. The microstructures were analyzed by optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Mechanical properties were based on Vickers microhardness tests and Young's modulus measurements. Microstructural characterization showed that α″ and ω stability is a function of Nb content for the Ti–12Mo base alloy. Nb addition resulted in the suppression of the α″ phase and decrease in the ω phase volume fraction. Although the ω phase decreased with higher Nb contents, ω particles with ellipsoidal morphology were still observed in the Ti–12Mo–20Nb alloy. The α″ phase suppression by Nb addition caused a marked increase in the Young's modulus, which decreased back to lower values with higher Nb concentrations. On other hand, the decrease in the ω phase continuously reduced alloy hardness. The study of the effect of chemical composition in controlling the volume fraction of these phases is an important step for the development of β-Ti alloys with functional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel methods to probe and evaluate the mechanical properties of High entropy alloy are gaining popularity to accelerate the development of new material for structural application and for establishing the physics-based mechanical property models. Nanoindentation techniques are predominantly suitable for evaluating the properties of materials in which deformation volumes can be cautiously controlled, and indentation can be applied to probe the properties of specific phases or features present within the microstructure. The current investigation is based on the plastic deformation response of Eutectic High Entropy Alloy, AlCoCrFeNi2.1, using experimental and computational approaches. In this paper, the plastic deformation of eutectic high entropy alloy AlCoCrFeNi2.1 is investigated using nanoindentation over a broad range of strain rates at room temperature to probe the mechanical properties of Eutectic High Entropy Alloy, AlCoCrFeNi2.1 and also to understand its elasto-plastic behaviour of BCC and FCC phase present in the alloy. In order to capture the deformation mechanism of material under the tip of the nano-indenter as well as to predict the load variation with depth, molecular dynamic simulation is performed. A characteristic load-depth curve has also been generated from the developed model, which is in good agreement with the experimental one. These findings will lead to understanding the phase-specific contribution to bulk mechanical response of multicomponent alloys and aid in designing structural materials with high fracture toughness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In case of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) associated with multiple intracranial aneurysms (MIAs), the main goal of acute treatment is securing the source of bleeding (index aneurysm). Indications and timing of bystanders treatment are instead still debated as the risk of new SAHs in patients harboring MIAs is not yet established. However, even if technically feasible, a simultaneous management of all aneurysms remains questionable, especially for safety issues. We retrospectively reviewed our last 5-year experience with SAH patients harboring MIAs entered in a clinic-radiological monitoring for bystanders follow-up in order to evaluate the occurrence of morphological changes, bleeding events, and safety and efficacy of a delayed treatment. We included 39 patients with mean age of 59.5 ± 12.2 years who survived a SAH. Among them, 14 underwent treatment, whereas 25 continued follow-up. The mean time between index and bystanders treatment was 14.3 ± 19.2 months. Patients undergoing bystanders treatment were mainly female and in general younger than patients undergoing observation. No cases of growth or bleeding were observed among bystanders within the two groups during the follow-up, which was longer than 1 year for the intervention group, and almost 40 months for the observation group. No major complications and mRS modifications were observed after bystanders treatment. Our data seem to suggest that within the short follow-up, intervention and observation seem to be likewise safe for bystander aneurysms, showing at the same time that a delayed management presents a similar risk profile of treating unruptured aneurysms in patients with no previous history of SAH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent proposals on phases claim that locality restrictions are obviated when the subject of a clausal phase has certain syntactic or discourse properties, suggesting that phasehood is acquired over the course of a derivation. I evaluate these claims with acceptability judgment experiments and argue that these phase-related locality effects can be derived from independently motivated principles, such as Feature Inheritance/Value-Transfer Simultaneity or the Principle of Minimal Compliance. I further point out similar effects with possessors and nominals in English, expanding the empirical domain. The nominal data constitute a novel argument for treating nominals as phases and strengthen the case for a general theory of phases that can account for these effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The conditions for the formation of a water-in-oil (w/o) Pickering emulsion resistant to coalescence and sedimentation with a droplet size of 2–12 μm, stabilized by talc microparticles were established: the oil phase is a 70% solution of CHS-EPOXX 530 resin in xylene, the aqueous phase is suspension of talc in water with a concentration of 6 g/100 mL (water + oil), volume ratio of phases 1 : 1, emulsification for 15 min at 293 K and a rotor speed of 7000 rpm. The formation of w/o emulsions is explained by the lyophobic-lyophilic heterogeneity of the talc microparticles surface, which has basal hydrophobic and lateral hydrophilic areas. High-quality films and coatings with a good degree of curing and mechanical strength were produced using the epoxy-polyamine adduct TELALIT 180 as a hardener. Their structure consists of a polymer framework, including microscopic capsules, which, can be filled with water (293 K) or air (353 K) depending on the curing temperature. Such microcapsules can be carriers of hydrophilic components, such as corrosion inhibitors or intumescent compounds, and can be used to fabricate protective paint and varnish coatings, including self-healing ones, in order to extend their service life. They can also serve as microreactors in the synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles (MoO3, TiO2), which are effective catalysts for the oxidation of organic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article re-examines the evidence for OV and VO variation and the loss of OV order in historical English, and presents a novel and unified analysis of Old and Middle English word order based on a uniform VO grammar, with leftward scrambling of specific types of objects. This analysis provides an insightful framework for a precise analysis of how OV word orders differ from VO word orders. We show in detail that OV with referential objects involves discourse-given objects. We then present a phase-based analysis from a VO base in which objects undergo feature-driven movement to spec,vP triggered by the information structure of the object. We propose that this analysis also yields a syntactic framework for analysing the derivation of preverbal quantified and negated objects, as well as a natural explanation for the stepwise loss of OV word order. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has sometimes been argued that adjuncts can merge late. This article provides a new argument for late adjunction and a new analysis of it. Exactly (or precisely) can adjoin to a wh phrase, and wh movement can affect either the entire adjunction structure (What exactlyis it?) or only the host (Whatis itexactly?). Structures like what exactly can be generated VP internally, but surprisingly—and despite appearances—exactly cannot be stranded VP internally. The article argues that this can be understood if adjuncts merge late obligatorily, at the phase level: for H a phase head with complement XP, all adjunction within the HP phase must occur immediately before XP spellout. Further predictions of this analysis are shown to be correct. The larger picture that emerges is one in which the syntax prioritizes satisfying featural requirements: if so, it is not surprising that it waits until the last possible moment (within each phasal subderivation) to add in adjuncts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: A wound may define as an interruption within the continuity of the epithelial lining of the skin or mucosa that occurs as a result of physical or thermal damage. Wound healing is an intricate process that is highly synchronized censorious in the management of the protective means of the skin. There are a variety of systemic and local factors that influence wound healing, including oxygenation, inflammation, age, stress, diabetes, nutrition, and nicotine. Hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation or granulation, remodeling or maturation are the principle phases of wound healing. The authors of the current review attempt to convey that the usage of herbal drugs has extreme importance in the current era. The authors reviewed a total of 38 herbal plants with their mechanism of wound healing and the chemical constituents responsible for it. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, negative pressure therapy, platelet-rich plasma therapy, stem cell therapy, and biosurgery are some of the most often used supporting procedures for wound healing with these herbal drugs. Short conclusion: There are a variety of herbal plants that have wound healing properties. This evaluation covers a wide range of plants. However, a review of the literature on diverse plants reveals that diverse chemical contents are found in different plant species, but did not mention of which chemical compounds are important for wound healing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The brightness or luminance of true dawn changes from when dawn light appears until sunrise. At the start of morning twilight after the night or at break of dawn, the intensity of the brightness is very low. The brightness intensity of dawn increases gradually in phases until it is bright. The phase of dawn or fajr in the Qur’an is mentioned as tanaffas and isfar in surah At-Takwir verse 18 (And the dawn as it breathes away the darkness) and Al-Mudatsir verse 34 (And by the dawn when it shines) respectively. These verses show that there are two types of brightness at dawn relating to tanaffas and isfar. These two different brightness levels show there are two phases of true dawn. This study aims to determine the time and depression angle of the Sun for the tanaffas and isfar phases and the brightness of the phases. This study was carried out by observation method at field locations in Malaysia and Indonesia. The instruments used were a thread window and an SQM-LU photometer. The results show that the tanaffas phase occurrs when white thread becomes visible and the isfar phase happens when black thread becomes visible. The tanaffas phase occurrs at the depression angle of the sun -16 ° to -14 ° and the isfar phase at an angle of -14 ° until sunrise. The average brightness of tanaffas phase is 19.44 mag arcsec-2 and isfar phase is 17.55 mag arcsec-2. The implication of this study gives the explanation about the words of tanaffas and Isfar in Al-Quran; and provides evidence of the truth of Al-Quran from the scientific perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Informed by Schneider's (2003) "dynamic model of the evolution of new Englishes," this study, using concrete examples and illustrations taken from archival documents, TV news, and previous studies examines the developmental phases that contribute to the formation of what I term New Englishes in Saudi Arabia. Specifically, it explores two main questions: i) what does the phenomenon of new Englishes say about language and Saudi society today? and ii) what are the implications of new Englishes for language policy in Saudi Arabia? It argues that the concept of Saudi English (as an umbrella term), as recently described by several Saudi scholars, does not help us understand the emerging varieties of English and its fluidity across the country. The concept of New Englishes in Saudi Arabia should be employed as an analytical model to better understand the diverse varieties and ever-expanding users of English in the country. This study concludes with some implications for language policy and a call for further studies on this line of inquiry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article shows that the Coordinate Structure Constraint (CSC) can be violated in a number of languages and establishes a novel cross-linguistic generalization regarding languages that allow violations of the CSC. A phase-based deduction of this generalization is then provided under a particular contextual approach to phases. In addition, based on the cross-linguistic data regarding violations of the CSC, it is argued that the CSC should be separated into two conditions: (i) the ban on extraction of a conjunct, and (ii) the ban on extraction out of a conjunct. This means that the whole coordinate structure (ConjP) as well as individual conjuncts are islands independently of each other. The article also addresses the long-standing debate regarding where in the grammar the CSC applies, arguing that the two different conditions that result from the separation of the traditional CSC ((i) and (ii) above) are deduced from different mechanisms in the architecture of the grammar: one is a purely syntactic condition, and the other is an interface condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The results of surface hardening of tungsten carbide hard alloys carried out using concentrated energy flows are presented. A VK6OM alloy with a thickness of 20 μm is applied on a VK10KS hard alloy by electrospark machining. This results in a surface hardened layer consisting of W2C. The hardness of the resulting layer is 22 000 MPa, the friction factor is 0.23 (compared to the friction factor 0.41 of the original hard alloy), and a strong but low resistant base. In this work, a surface layer was obtained on the VK10KS hard alloy with a thickness of 40 μm, phase composition TiC, W2C, by single-component electroexplosive titanium doping. The nanohardness of this layer is 25 000 MPa, the friction factor is 0.14. A surface layer 3–4 μm thick with the phase composition TiB2, TiC, W2C was obtained on the VK10KS hard alloy by multicomponent electroexplosive titanium-boron doping. The nanohardness of the hardened layer is 27 500 MPa, the friction factor is 0.10. Using a separate cathode technique, an ion-plasma TiN + ZrN coating (50% Ti + 50% Zr) 20 μm thick was deposited on the VK10KS hard alloy surface. Nitrogen was used as the reaction gas. The nanohardness of the surface layer strengthened in this way is 38 500 MPa, the friction factor is 0.07. The ion-plasma TiN + ZrN coating has good adhesion to the substrate. The use of the proposed surface hardening of the VK10KS hard alloy makes it possible to choose one of the hardening methods based on the operating conditions of the hard-alloy tool, to extend its service life, save scarce materials (tungsten and cobalt). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present article addresses the problem of syntax-semantics mapping of syntactically complex structures that are interpreted as semantically simple terms. While these morphosyntactic mechanisms have been successfully applied to roots in Marantz's framework, more complex structures turn out to be formally and conceptually challenging. To solve these problems, I make use of Cooper's type-theoretic framework to propose a formal account of Transfer. I apply this to verbal idioms and direct quotation, whose parts do not obtain the idiomatic/quotational reading. The main result is a formal account of light heads providing the operation of predicate formation within cyclic derivations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]