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The objective of this paper is to apply the stochastic production frontier methodology to a survey database collected in northern Vietnam. Our study finds that the average technical efficiency of tea production is only about 41 %. Among extension policy measures available to farmers, only training on production inputs has an improving impact on technical efficiency. Other features of policy have no significant effect, contrary to the expectation. The adoption of the oldest variety “Trung-Du” is not a source of inefficiency while the effects of other new varieties are insignificant. The results indicate that there is a great potential for improving production efficiency in the region of the study.

Objective: To compare the safety and efficacy of anti-leukotrienes and inhaled glucocorticoids as monotherapy in people with asthma. Design: Systematic review of randomised controlled trials comparing anti-leukotrienes with inhaled glucocorticoids for 28 days or more in children and adults. Main outcome measure: Rate of exacerbations that required treatment with systemic glucocorticoids. Results: 13 trials (12 in adults, one in children) met the inclusion criteria; all were in people with mild and moderate asthma. Leukotriene receptor antagonists were compared with inhaled glucocorticoids at a daily dose equivalent to 400–450 μg beclometasone dipropionate. Patients treated with leukotriene receptor antagonists were 60% more likely to suffer an exacerbation requiring systemic glucocorticoids (relative risk 1.6, 95% confidence interval 1.2 to 2.2; number needed to treat 27, 13 to 81). A 130 ml greater improvement (80 ml to 170 ml) in forced expiratory volume in one second and a 19 l/min greater increase (14 l to 24 l) in morning peak expiratory flow rate were noted in favour of inhaled glucocorticoids. Differences in favour of inhaled glucocorticoids were also observed for nocturnal awakenings, use of rescue β2 agonists, and days without symptoms. Risk of side effects was no different between groups, but leukotriene receptor antagonists were associated a 2.5-fold increase risk of withdrawals due to poor asthma control (relative risk 2.5, 1.8 to 3.5). Conclusions: Inhaled glucocorticoids doses equivalent to 400 μg/day beclometasone are more effective than leukotriene receptor antagonists in the treatment of adults with mild or moderate asthma. There is insufficient evidence to conclude on the efficacy of anti-leukotrienes in children. What is already known on this topic In 2000 a Cochrane systematic review tentatively concluded that control of asthma was better in patients treated with inhaled glucocorticoids as single agents than with anti-leukotrienes The 2002 Global Initiative for Asthma guidelines still classify the role of anti-leukotrienes as “under investigation” What this study adds Anti-leukotrienes as single agent are less effective than low doses of inhaled glucocorticoids for patients with mild and moderate persistent asthma

This paper argues that Pynchon may allude to Marcel Proust through the character Marcel in Part 4 of Gravity's Rainbow and, if so, what that could mean. I trace the textual clues that relate to Proust and analyze what Pynchon may be saying about a fellow great experimental writer.

Call for papers for International Pynchon Week 2013 to be held at Durham University, UK from the 5th-8th of August 2013

Signatura antiga: 365. El document original era en paper, segellat amb el segell del bisbe de València, el qual també usa el bisbe de Vic a falta del seu propi. Notes sobre les dates: Còpia de 1303, febrer, 26 Trasllat del manament que Ramon, bisbe de València, i Ponç, bisbe de Vic, transmeten a Arnau de Soler, ardiaca de Besalú, i Companyó d'Estanyol, prevere del capítol de Girona, de no exigir res per raó de delme al monestir de Sant Daniel

The sufficient utilization of the mega data acquired from operative power units is a promising way leading to high efficient, clean and safe operation of power plant. Hereinto, data filtering is a critical link to the data-driven dynamic model identification aiming at optimizing the process control. The machine learning is an advantageous approach for filtering usable data from mega databases for identification due to its effective statistical learning strategy to the field data with noises, disturbances and coupling quantities. Therefore, a data filtering method of combining Gaussian Naive Bayesian classifier and prediction error method (Gaussian NB-PEM) is proposed in this paper. Firstly, variables associated with identification model are selected by analyzing the characteristics of the process. Secondly, the GaussianNB classifier is used for coarse data filtering by calculating the priori probability of each attribute from training sample set and the probability with all possible values of the known categories for testing sample set. Thirdly, the prediction error method is used for further data filtering based on model fitting. By using the filtered closed-loop data, the dynamic characteristics of the superheated steam temperature is modeled and verified by closed-loop control simulation, showing the validity of the Gaussian NB-PEM data filtering method.

Heterogeneous, distributed multi-databases (data warehouses, grids) are growing day by day as businesses demand more economical and flexible solutions for their data storage and processing needs. One of the main issues obstructing the large scale deployment of distributed multi-databases is latencies involved in data retrieval. Such problems are usually solved with the help of persistent caches. The paper presents a semantic caching architecture which supports faster semantic matching in query processing. This paper enhances the existing architecture of semantic cache and provides the mapping of hierarchical indexing scheme over it with the help of case study in order to represent the working of architecture. This paper also provides experimental results of the query processing over updated architecture and provides the discussion over comparison of the extended architecture with the previously proposed architecture.

This study is designed to investigate the behavioral implications of "Activity-Based Costing" (ABC) in managerial accounting. The objective of the paper is to distinguish the major differences that exist between the ABC and other traditional costing systems. This objective is achieved through the use of an analytical framework and with the aid of an il1ustration. Following illustration presents the practical runifications along with the behavioral implications of the use of ABC in both manufacturing and service oriented companies in different countries. From the logic of the illustration, it becomes evident that ABC, as a revolutionary costing method, among other benefits, has the capacity of being used as an effective managerial problem solving tool. In Addition, the article presents and studies the relevent behavioral factors in the form of following four theses: 1- international, societal, and organizational climate, 2- managerial culture, 3- methods of managerial performance evaluation, and 4- existing organizational control environment. The paper concludes that the apllication of the ABC to different settings and utlizing its benefits, requires the fu11 recognition of its behavioral implications.

This paper examined the relationship between the two basic criteria "virtue" and "competence" in Islamic Management. Studies showed that from the perspective of management scholars in the West virtues and technical competencies have been taken identical and primarily in Western management paradigm no distinction has been drawn between these two measuresin most cases (MC Cowli and Lawtan, 2006). Regarding the fact that virtuesdefinedsomewhatdifferentlyin Islam fromwhat has been inthe West by the dominant view, in this paper by using semi-structured questionnaires and interviews it is tried to answer this question that does virtues have the same value as technical merits and competencies or is there significant difference between them in Islamic management which its basic valueshave differed somewhatfrom thevalues ofWesternmanagement? The statistical population for this study was as follows: a group of faculty members anddoctoral students of management at University of Tehran, University of Tarbiat Modarres and University of Allameh Tabatabaei, well-knowledgeable in principles of Islamic management and also number of Hawzah scholars, typically experts in the field of Islamic management. Findings from the data analysis showed thatrespondents, besides making distinction between virtues and competencies, in most cases have not taken these two criteria necessarily identical from the perspective of Islamic managementand contrary to popular opinion in the West and subsequently in Western management paradigm, virtue and competence criteria are two separate and somewhat different criteria from each other.

In general, due to the preceding of psychological approach over sociological approach in describing organizations, the role of governments and business organizations in developing countries has been argued in this paper. What has been neglected in the related scientific literature inside and abroad the country is role of NGOs in social development. NGOs that their numbers are increasing on a daily basis are divided into two categories of sacred and non-sacred. Some debateshave been made about NGOs, but conceptualizing faith based organizations which are NGO and sacred, has been remained obsolete. A faith-based organization has double effectiveness than other NGOs in providing social services and that is because of its faith capacity. This paper which is a case studysought to reveal the importance of these organizations more than ever before. To do, primarily with explaining normative rationality and conceptualization of faith based organizations, creating this type of organization was justified. Then, it studied these types of organizations. Finally, the role of faith-based organizations to provide social services was discussed.

Numerous management papers emphasizes the importance of strategic thinking among managers, but the issue that has been paid less attention is the link between strategic thinking and values. This link connects moralities with business logic. This paper aims at illustrating and defining conceptual framework for the explanation of connection between ethics and strategic thinking. Based on content analysis method, this research paper examines concepts concerning business in Nahjolbalagheh. It attempts to extract central ideas implied in that noteworthy Islamic source. By evaluating their significance and frequency, these ideas will be our guide for understanding the connection between ethic and strategic thinking. In the model derived from the Nahjolbalagheh, Imam Ali (A.S.) based on a transcendental attitude gives business divine approach along with materialistic one. The model presents ethical indices influencing business by focusing on basic indices of business. It demonstrates thinking criteria in business according to the Nahjolbalagheh. Efficiency of strategic thinking requires presentation of the model that shows the criteria of business strategic in a perfect interaction with moral values and includes ethical content associates with a well-defined process.

Kaizen is the practice of continuous improvement. Kaizen was originally introduced to the West by Japan. Today Kaizen is recognized worldwide as an important pillar of an organization’s long-term competitive strategy. Kaizen is continuous improvement that is based on certain guiding principles. Kaizen or continuous improvement of tasks is a model of management aims at encouraging persistent endless perseverance and diligence. This paper, by reviewing the Islamic aspects and implications implicit in Kaizen model of management concerning incessant improvement and prohibition of laziness, investigates the instructions provided in the narratives of the infallible Shia Imams and scrutinizes the possibility of modeling their conducts in this field. The present study is developmental in terms of purpose and is conducted by analytical descriptive method. To collect the required data, library method of study, note taking and classification of statements have been used. In this paper, firstly, as much as possible it has been tried to derive Kaizen principles implied in Islamic sources and then related sources associated with this concept have been identified and analyzed. In addition to finding more exact understanding of this concept, Islamic view relating Kaizen implied in these sources can be explained and applied in this field. However, Kaizen is the implementation of a certain Islamic instruction. Scrutinizing this issue proves that Islamic scholars should pay special attention to the sophisticated instructions of Islam for using Kaizen at different levels of management. And they are recommended to carry on for a striking noteworthy presence in different areas of science and persist to extract scientific discussions of Islamic sources.

This paper examines the concept of conflict and conflict management in the view of Islam and other management schools and investigates this concept in different views of management and attempts to find the similarities and differences between Islamic approaches and the views proposed by scientific schools. The research method of this paper is library method of study using various sources in this field based on rational and narrative methods. The results of this study are as follows: for different related scientific trends there are three major attitudes about conflict. The first one which is recognized traditional view among other three present attitudes believes that conflict is primarily destructive and should be avoided. The second view belongs to the human relations school of management and supposes that conflict is natural and inevitable. The third and last view in an interactive way assumes both functional and non-functional conflict (i.e.; positive and negative conflict) and confirms that in some special situations managers are recommended to create conflict when needed. In fact, each of the above mentioned views go to extremes about conflict at times. Islam states clearly a balanced view on this phenomenon. Despite the belief in both positive and negative attitudes in this regard emphasizes that drawing a borderline between positive and negative conflicts depends on factors such as individuals’ intentions, personal ability, subject matter and especially conflict situations.

The concept of participation in urban management is one of the most important and challenging issues in the field of urban development. Numerous theories and different approaches have been proposed until now in the international level while every view expressed for a particular society and a specific condition. Urban management in Iran is not in an organic interaction with urban planning. However, these must be in a constant connection and direct influence. Unfortunately, most of proceedings concerning urban management and urban planning in Iran need to be nationalized. They are typically organized in an up to bottom attempt while it is expected to be vice – versa. Now, considering the potentials and challenges facing public participation in Iran and by referring to significant contribution of great scholars such as Allameh Tabatabai who have comprehensive and noteworthy views on this important issue, the concept of participation can be locally nationalized. For this purpose, in this paper we first try to investigate the concept of participation in urban management. Second, by citing to the Allameh Tabatabai theory about the “conventional perceptions” (edrakat-e etebari) (including recruitment, community and justice, social property; council; interactive realism; guardianship of the Islamic community), his views on citizens’ participation and their role in the government are explained. Then we describe the role of government in the Muslim society and finally conclude that based on Allameh Tabatabai’s views, citizens’ participation in city management is inevitable and managers of these cities cannot make any decision or enact legislation or organize to implement their plans and projects and monitor their own work without consulting the principal beneficiary interested competent groups who the most important are people and citizens.

This study aimed to investigate the historical records and backgrounds of the Islamic public administration in the management literature of Iran and the world and within meta-theoretical and philosophical justification on the one hand and forming the basis of Islamic principles based on religious references and sources on the other hand. Accordingly, following methodology of the new public service movement, efforts have been made to formulate the fundamental principles of Islamic public administration. The first part of this research paper was to analyze and explore the evolution of knowledge of this movement. In the second part meta-theoretical and philosophical reasons for the current trend of management were provided. And the final part of the present paper presented the intellectual and practical foundations of the movement.

Among the scientific trends that could find accepted position in the humanities, in contrast to the prevalent positivism, was conventionalism. Conventionalism in its branches including the organizational studies is intended to use the knowledge results of different paradigms and tries to benefit from all the available conceivable possibilities to recognize organization. The most notably example of these efforts is the Morgan's use of metaphors to understand and deal with organization problems. These metaphors are not meant to be exhaustive and he acknowledges that they can be used individually or in combination to guide our understanding of organizations and organization problems. His aim is to show how metaphor is central to our thinking about organization and management and open new possibilities. This trend regardless of the reciprocal fundamentals in different paradigms fostered a paradoxical suggestion in itself. In contrast to this approach, the present paper introduces Allameh Tabataba'i's Meta-theory of E'tebariat (Agreed Perceptions) as a stronger version for human sciences that can provide a growing capacity for the Morgan's Images of Organization.

Investigation and explanation of criteria for selection and evaluation of managers' performances and functions and also assessment of their merits in the light of Imam Ali (A.S) teachings and sermons Method: This research is a review descriptive one using library method of study and has been categorized and compiled by citing various accounts of Nahjolbalagheh and related websites. Findings: In this paper, by studying Imam Ali (A.S) sermons, letters, sayings and his testament managers' merits and virtues were extracted. Of these, the following can be enumerated: justice, knowledge, good policy, knowing the expertise of planning, decisiveness, gentleness and moderateness, happiness and freshness, lawfulness, compromise, the ability for consultation and negotiation, eloquence and persuasiveness, real attraction and repulsion, obedience, temperance and moderation. Conclusion: Muslim society can increase its effectiveness and productivity by resorting to Imam Ali (A.S.) teachings and sermons in all areas of selection and appointment of managers and evaluation of their performances. On the other hand, proper management criteria in Islamic system of governance can be divided into three fields: knowledge, expertise and morality.

Spiritual intellect involves a collection of abilities and capacities that uses spiritual sources to improve people’s compatibility, conformity and satisfaction and provides a better life. This research paper aims at examination of the relationship between spiritual intellect and interactive skills by investigating the opinions of Isfahan University students. This research was practical and its method was a kind of descriptive survey and its statistical population was comprised of higher education students at Humanities department of Isfahan University. The stratified random sampling is implemented to evaluate the sample volume and 305 students were selected according to Kookran Formula. The research instruments were two researcher-made questionnaires including spiritual intellect and interactive skills. The validity of their contents was confirmed by experts and their reliabilities were assessed 85 and 96 respectively via Cronbach’s alpha test. Findings show that there are significant relationships between thinking and interactive skills, personal conceptualization and interactive skills, transcendental consciousness and interactive skills and improvement of self-consciousness and interactive skills.

The Move to Community Needs in Information and Communications Technologies, an Important Beginning for This Information Exchange the Transfer of Knowledge to the Production, Distribution and Heterogeneous Institutional of Science in the World Today Seems to be Necessary. New Information Technologies and the Transformation of its High Level of Service, Cultural, Religious, Political and Economic has Development. The Recent Revolution, the Challenges are in the Realm of Human Affairs, Profoundly Changed the Formation. Using the Tools of Futures Study, the Patterns Can be Represented Islam in This Area Offers the Perfect Example of the Social Relationships that Promote and Programs Necessary to Achieve These Patterns. In This Paper an Analytical Approach Based on Vision Processing with Tom Induction Hypothesis Islamic Doctrine has been Tested on Future Data Information Exchange for This purpose, a Sample Size of 117 Cases of Managers and Employees Working in Different Environments and with Different Levels of Education were Considered the Data was Analyzed. Finally, Two Variables Islamic Doctrine and Information Exchange was Confirmed in 99% Confidence Level. It is Suggested That the Next Display is the New World, Islamic Doctrine at all Levels and Layers of Micro and Macro Organizational, Social and Virtual Space is a Serious Consideration in This Study as Heuristic Depth Explanation is Religious.

In this paper we will explore the relation between the actors’ understanding of time and the problem solving strategies in a complicated situation. Drawing on ethnography and conversation analysis we will focus on the institutional interaction order governing the scenes these movies exhibit. Using phenomenology and Ernest Pople indices, we aim to analyze the understanding made of the time in these conversations. In doing so we will consider the moment in which the violators rationalize the reasons behind their violations. The results show that while the time that law, the police and even the road technologies rely on is homogeneous and linear, the drivers employ the expressions connotating an iterative understanding of time. The paper concludes with showing how the law breaking drivers base their conversations on a nonlinear time to manage the difficult situations they are involved with. This suggests that far from a universal category, time is a category constantly taking different shapes in different everyday encounters.