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Integer linear programming (ILP) is often used to model and solve real-life problems. In practice, alternative solutions are very useful as they significantly increase flexibility for the decision-maker. In this study, an alternative method based on parameterization obtained from the Diophantine equation is developed to find all alternative solutions to ILP problems, and an easy-to-implement, efficient, and reliable algorithm is presented. The proposed method was used without being affected by the number of variables and constraints in the problem. Numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed method. In addition, these examples are coded in the MAPLE programming language according to the proposed algorithm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to analyze the effect of work stress, workload, and work environment on employee performance. The data for this study were obtained from 84 employees of PT Rajawali Dwi Putra Indonesia through a quantitative approach. The sampling technique used was non-probability sampling with saturated sampling category. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using multiple linear regression with the help of SPSS software as an analytical tool. The T test results showed that: (1) Work stress does not have a significant effect on employee performance, (2) Workload also does not have a significant effect on employee performance, (3) Work environment has a significant effect on employee performance, and (4) Work stress, workload, and work environment simultaneously affect employee performance at PT Rajawali Dwi Putra Indonesia. This research is expected to be a reference, suggestion, and alternative solution for companies or organizations in dealing with problems related to work stress, workload, and work environment, which in turn is expected to improve employee performance and support the achievement of organizational goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many nations are creating E-courts to simplify court operations. However, religious e-Courts take more work to execute. This study has identified religious court e-Court implementation issues and solutions using Delphi and ANP. It first employed Delphi and a literature review to interview experts face-to-face. Eight judges, I.T. workers, and attorneys from three religious court districts analysed the model using a priority scale with an Analytic Network Process (ANP). The study found that infrastructure or equipment from the application of the e-Court system is the main issue, with a geometric mean of 0.306, followed by Human Resources (0.262), the system (0.219), and regulation (0.213). Improving e-Court system regulation (0.850) and infrastructure were the primary solutions (0.770). This paper details cluster priority solutions and issues. This study suggests that the highest religious court authority focuses on infrastructure, human resources, e-Court operational systems, and associated legislations. The government must adopt the e-Court system and registration laws to encourage more active socialising. The study prioritises e-Court implementation issues in the religious courts of Indonesia.

Lawns, introduced in Australia through English colonial heritage, dominate public spaces in cities, serving various ecosystem functions. Australian lawns consist of non-native grasses that differ from native original vegetation and require intensive management and maintenance. This study explores public perspectives on urban lawns in Perth, Western Australia, an area largely overlooked in ecological and social research in the context of Australia compared to Europe and North America. This paper presents empirical research on public perceptions of urban lawns and alternatives in Perth, Western Australia. The study explores social values and preferences regarding traditional lawns and new options, considering visual appearance, uses, and maintenance. Findings from an online questionnaire, involving 171 respondents, identified seven categories based on a content analysis of lawn definitions: flat area; ground covered by grass; maintained; non-native vegetation; open space; recreational space; and turf grass. The results revealed that respondents most value lawns for aesthetics, cooling and recreation (exercises, walking pets, as a transit area, passive recreation, and social gatherings). At the same time, participants demonstrated an environmental awareness of lawns and the necessity of revisiting the existing planning and maintenance routine based on irrigation and intensive mowing by considering several alternative solutions. While valuing new solutions such as Scaevola patches in dedicated areas and "weedy lawns", participants still preferred alternatives closest in appearance to a conventional lawn (e.g., lawn grass with Dichondra and lawn grass with clover). The study emphasizes the need for a 'blended model' of urban lawns, combining durability with heat-resistant, biodiverse vegetation to address social values and environmental concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In most project portfolio selection (PPS) situations, the presence of multiple attributes and decision-maker preference is inevitable. As Multi-criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) methods provide a framework well-suited to deal with these challenges in PPS problems, the use of MCDA methods in real-life PPS problems has increased in recent years. This paper provides a comprehensive literature review of the use of different MCDA methods and their individual or combined utilization with other modeling techniques to support PPS problems. First, we summarize how MCDA methods are used in different modeling approaches. Second, we examine the mathematical models that are generally used to combine MCDA with mathematical programming techniques to solve PPS problems with resource constraints. Third, we present the drawbacks of combined utilization and discuss recent advances. Finally, we visualize the summary of the reviewed papers as a decision tree to assist researchers and practitioners in the use of MCDA methods in a specific PPS context and propose some future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern management processes must solve the complex problem of optimal decision-making and timely and effective forecasting of their results, to select successful combinations of solutions in a particular production area of the new information and innovation society that has replaced the industrial era. Considering the above issues, the modelling process as an effective mechanism for decision-making and risk management deserves special attention. The purpose of the study was to highlight modelling as an effective method of decision-making in green production in a post-industrial society, and to justify the feasibility of its use at different levels of the production process. During the study, theoretical methods were applied, in particular, the study of scientific materials and research results, description and comparison. The results were also generalized and analysed. The article considers main approaches to the strategy of the introduction of modelling of decision-making in the field of green production in the post-industrial society, and provides a detailed definition of its structural elements and priority principles. It is clarified that modelling as a management tool is used in the development of rather complex production and management decisions and is the construction of a model or system of models of the process or phenomenon under study for its study, analysis, and formation of an appropriate fan of alternatives to the result. The main types of modelling according to different classifications are analysed, and the possibilities of applying some of them in the decision-making system in the production plane are investigated. Conclusions on the efficiency and effectiveness of the use of the modern innovation and information economic space in production processes are provided. The expediency of using different approaches to decision-making modelling, depending on some influencing factors, is substantiated. The possibility of solving the industrial multitasking of decision-making by creating models is proved. These research results are of practical importance for improving management processes in the field of green production in a post-industrial society, regardless of ownership, production volumes and scope of activity

While conventional materials like hemp could be employed as a lowcost, lowcarbon method of reinforcing concrete, building intelligent materials are the future of efficient manufacturing.A new breakthrough in the industry is currently being promised by at least 10 novel construction materials, including plastic that is stronger than steel and 3Dprinted mushroom columns.A lot of effort was put into developing biochar cladding, carbonfiber reinforced concrete, super-strong plastic, and 3D-printed mycelium with the goal of preventing issues like corrosion and fire as well as prolonging the lifespan of concrete structures.Additionally, materials like green charcoal loofah make it possible for the bricks to serve as a habitat for both plant and animal life, boosting the biodiversity of cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The number of animals used in research has increased following the progress and development of medical technology. Every year, millions of animals are used around the world. The pain, distress and death experienced by animals during scientific experiments have been a matter of debate for many years. In addition to the strong ethical issue, there are further drawbacks of these experiments, such as the need for skilled human resources, time consuming protocols and high costs. Now, several alternatives to animal testing have been developed to overcome the disadvantages associated with them but also to avoid unethical procedures. Aim: The aim of this review was to designate the specific field of tissue engineering that can be an essential tool in the future and lead to the reduction of animal use and the application of the 3RS. Material-Methods: We used the online data base PUBMED to choose the studies that describe the products of tissue engineering that are being used instead of living animals in experiments. The research took place the months June-August 2018 and again in March of 2021. Results: Five studies are analyzed: 3 refer to full thickness skins and experimentally demonstrate that it is possible to manufacture materials that can be used for in vitro investigations and the other 2 refer to rebuilt human epidermis where experimentally using different chemicals controls their reaction to that's all. Conclusion: The new technologies developed in the field of tissue engineering allow us to build functional tissues that can be used as models for risk assessment for humans that may conceal some chemical substances used in the production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT. Money politics conducted by political actors has inadvertently harmed the order of democratic civilization, which seeks to produce exemplary leaders with competence and morality. The practice of money politics is still prevalent in the local community of Singkil Regency, where it is considered pervasive. This is evident in every political contest for the Pileg and Pilkada, where candidates distribute cash, goods, and basic necessities. Observations on the ground indicate that there is a strong suspicion that the people there are extremely pragmatic in their political choices; they do not see the potential figures of the candidates but rather candidates who can give money to the people they favor. For the analysis of the aforementioned issues, a qualitative method involving observation, interviews, and documentation was employed. The study’s conclusion demonstrates that money politics is a form of buying and selling votes, which is one of the issues that must be addressed in general elections. However, state election supervisors in the regions, such as Panwaslih, continue to have limited manpower, time, and resources to oversee the practice of money politics during elections. As a result, the establishment of Gampông Politik as a socio-political institution is an important strategy for eradicating money politics by instilling democratic values, providing political education, and enforcing the law.

Lawns, introduced in Australia through English colonial heritage, dominate public spaces in cities, serving various ecosystem functions. Australian lawns consist of non-native grasses that differ from native original vegetation and require intensive management and maintenance. This study explores public perspectives on urban lawns in Perth, Western Australia, an area largely overlooked in ecological and social research in the context of Australia compared to Europe and North America. This paper presents empirical research on public perceptions of urban lawns and alternatives in Perth, Western Australia. The study explores social values and preferences regarding traditional lawns and new options, considering visual appearance, uses, and maintenance. Findings from an online questionnaire, involving 171 respondents, identified seven categories based on a content analysis of lawn definitions: flat area; ground covered by grass; maintained; non-native vegetation; open space; recreational space; and turf grass. The results revealed that respondents most value lawns for aesthetics, cooling and recreation (exercises, walking pets, as a transit area, passive recreation, and social gatherings). At the same time, participants demonstrated an environmental awareness of lawns and the necessity of revisiting the existing planning and maintenance routine based on irrigation and intensive mowing by considering several alternative solutions. While valuing new solutions such as Scaevola patches in dedicated areas and “weedy lawns”, participants still preferred alternatives closest in appearance to a conventional lawn (e.g., lawn grass with Dichondra and lawn grass with clover). The study emphasizes the need for a ‘blended model’ of urban lawns, combining durability with heat-resistant, biodiverse vegetation to address social values and environmental concerns.

Money politics conducted by political actors has inadvertently harmed the order of democratic civilization, which seeks to produce exemplary leaders with competence and morality. The practice of money politics is still prevalent in the local community of Singkil Regency, where it is considered pervasive. This is evident in every political contest for the Pileg and Pilkada, where candidates distribute cash, goods, and basic necessities. Observations on the ground indicate that there is a strong suspicion that the people there are extremely pragmatic in their political choices; they do not see the potential figures of the candidates but rather candidates who can give money to the people they favor. For the analysis of the aforementioned issues, a qualitative method involving observation, interviews, and documentation was employed. The study's conclusion demonstrates that money politics is a form of buying and selling votes, which is one of the issues that must be addressed in general elections. However, state election supervisors in the regions, such as Panwaslih, continue to have limited manpower, time, and resources to oversee the practice of money politics during elections. As a result, the establishment of Gampông Politik as a socio-political institution is an important strategy for eradicating money politics by instilling democratic values, providing political education, and enforcing the law. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The case analysis is a common assignment in business courses that requires students to use their disciplinary knowledge to identify a company's problems and propose logical recommendations to solve them (Gardner, 2012; Nathan, 2013). When writing the recommendations section of a case analysis, students are often required to discuss alternatives to their preferred recommendation as part of their argument for it. Despite the central importance of the recommendations section in case analysis writing, there is limited research on how to effectively help students write it. In this paper, we use SFL-based genre analysis to analyze how effectively students incorporated and rejected alternatives in a case proposal assignment in an Organizational Behavior (OB) course at an American university's branch campus in the Middle East. Unlike other research that focuses only on exemplar or successful student writing (e.g., Nathan, 2016; Nesi & Gardner, 2012; Szenes, 2017, 2021), we show a range of representative text patterns, from students who neglected to take a position on a preferred recommendation, to students who effectively supported a clear position. Our analysis has implications for a range of genres where students need to maintain a consistent stance while arguing for a preferred solution among alternatives. • We use SFL to identify the genre of giving recommendations in a case proposal. • We analyze how effectively students incorporated alternatives in writing recommendations. • Unlike other research, we show a range of more or less effective text patterns. • We discuss ways to help students to argue while considering alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One form of service in the MCH program is services for pregnant women which consist of health services for pregnant women, maternal health, postpartum health, handling of obstetric complications, and contraceptive services, all of which aim to ensure protection for pregnant women and / or fetuses. This is closely related to efforts to reduce maternal mortality (MMR). Objectives: The research objective was to determine the priority of health problems, find the root of health problems and provide alternative solutions to problems in health care for pregnant women Methods: The research method used is descriptive research using secondary data sources to determine the priority of the problem by means of a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) involving decision makers at the Konawe District Health Office. The formulation of alternative solutions is carried out after the root causes are identified using Ishikawa or Fishbone diagrams. The priority of the root cause of the problem is carried out using the Capability Accessibility Readiness Leverage (CARL) method. Results: The results show that the low K1 and K4 coverage of pregnant women health services is the main priority problem. The root cause of the problem that must be prioritized to be resolved is that socialization to teenagers / prospective brides (catin) about marriage at a young age is still a major problem that must be followed up. The alternative that is given as a solution is to provide counseling using innovative and attractive media to make it easier to understand.Conclusions: The priority of health problems in the MCH Program of the Konawe District Health Office is the problem of health services for pregnant women with K1 and K4 coverage. The root of the problem of socialization among adolescents / catin about marriage at a young age is still lacking is the level of education, knowledge, employment, counseling media are less innovative and interesting, the frequency of counseling and the size of the area are not proportional to the available resources. An alternative solution is socialization to teenagers/catin about marriage at a young age is still lacking by using innovative and interesting counseling media so that it is easy to receive and understand the information conveyed.

Education institutions and learning operations are part of the hardest hits of the Corona pandemic crisis of 2019. In addition to the sudden breakdowns of vital-life sectors and education, the learning and teaching processes knew some disorders and interruptions differently worldwide. Not only that, but also this crisis brought its effects on students and school children; especially concerning their psychological health due to the restrictions of lockdown and social distancing, over and above that these generations have neither precedent with inevitable crisis, nor procedures. Education in the age of Corona is a primary concern and challenge for countries, especially in the light of the unequal levels of alternative solutions to pursue the teaching process regularly and with lesser damages. This article aims to raise awareness about the novel patterns and platforms that have been used globally since the pandemic's emergence. Furthermore, it addresses their effectiveness in large parts of countries, as it attempts to assess their performance and compare the extent of responsiveness to these teaching platforms and technologies in different countries. At the end of this suggested contribution, we intend to track the future of these patterns and platforms in the post-corona phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is aimed at examining the theoretical-practical bases of formation of accounting policy for intangible assets of enterprise, taking into account the conceptual basis of financial statements – either UAS (Ukrainian Accounting Standards) or IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards). The analysis and generalization of the requirements of regulations, as well as scientific works of many scholars on understanding the essence of the concept of «accounting policy» were carried out. Two key directions of understanding of accounting policy by domestic scholars are allocated: the closer specified one (description of alternative solutions) and the wide one (disclosure of an additional array of information in addition to choosing from the permitted alternatives). The author’s own approach to understanding the accounting policy in terms of intangible assets is proposed: it is a description of the decisions chosen by the enterprise from a number of alternatives stipulated by the standards (UAS or IFRS), regarding the recognition, valuation, submission and disclosure of information about intangible assets, as well as other aspects deemed essential. The approaches of domestic scholars to identify the main elements of accounting policy related to intangible assets are considered. On the basis of the study of alternative requirements of IAS 38, a minimum set of elements of the enterprise’s accounting policy for intangible assets is proposed, as well as key differences in approaches to the preparation of accounting policies under the UAS compared to the IFRS are defined. The appropriateness of disclosure of tax aspects in accounting policy is analyzed. Approaches to improving accounting policy and ensuring its innovative nature through the presentation of independent decisions of the enterprise on disclosure of information about intangible assets in the broad sense of this concept are proposed. It is recommended to disclose information on the identification of classes of the implicit innovation-oriented assets, approaches to valuation and monitoring of these assets outside of traditional accounting methods, as well as disclosure channels for such assets.

We are going through troubled times, with worldwide pandemic crises affecting us altogether: citizens, companies and states. This article presents analyses and solutions to the workforce crisis of December 2019 and the workplace crisis of March 2020. Things have escalated from a workforce crisis to a new stage, namely an accelerated loss of workplaces and to a workplace crisis. In a matter of weeks, the labour market has moved from one extreme to the other extremely fast because of a very rough natural phenomenon which could not have been predicted, i.e. the global pandemic crisis caused by the COVID-19 coronavirus. It goes without saying that we all wish to achieve a relative balance on the labour market. This study puts forward concrete solutions adapted to the situation of the Romanian labour market at the end of 2019, when we saw a significant workforce crisis which severely affected companies’ business development objectives. At the same time, it introduces 11 solutions to the new job crisis, which is quickly expanding as a result of the global pandemic caused by the COVID-19 virus and by the declaration of a state of emergency in Romania. In a few weeks of crisis, Romania went from minus 1 million workers to plus 1 million workers. This is an extremely difficult situation. However, I believe that it is temporary and that after the pandemic crisis both the economy and the labour market will gradually recover.

Copyright of Journal of Judgments by the Court of Jurisdictional Disputes / Uyusmazlik Mahkemesi Dergisi is the property of Court of Jurisdictional Disputes of the Republic of Turkey 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.)

Copyright of Hacettepe Law Review is the property of Hacettepe Law Review 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Judgments by the Court of Jurisdictional Disputes / Uyusmazlik Mahkemesi Dergisi is the property of Court of Jurisdictional Disputes of the Republic of Turkey 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.)

Copyright of Larhyss Journal is the property of Biskra University, Research Laboratory in Subterranean & Surface Hydraulics 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.)

In our days, construction projects are everywhere around the world, whether in depend on building a school, a building or even a house. However, this sector currently suffers from many big issues which are the disputes that occur in its very own project and contract management. The main objectives are to identify and understand the leading causes of disputes in construction projects. To do so, we will have to establish a root cause analysis, then identify and analyze the different alternatives solutions that are suitable to deal with the latter. At the end of those research and analysis, it will result in an indication on a clear understanding of the issues and on what solution to implement in project management such as the arbitration alternative or the prevention of disputes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to demonstrate to the reader the way in which procedural relationships are dealt with within the Law and how it is possible to provide diverse mechanisms for alternative dispute resolution. To do so, within an epistemological analysis, which uses rationalism to demonstrate the possible ways to reach valid consensus, judicially or extrajudicially. The intended method is the inductive, leading the interpreter to understand the possibilities of entering into a contentious relationship, but that can be resolved consensually. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fact that Globalization has caused different identity crises cannot be challenged either by social scientists or by individuals lacking the slightest expertise in the field. But, unlike those who believe that the process of global homogenization could be the solution of these crises, we advocate, in the Gustian style of Militans Sociology, for the exploration of alternative solutions, depending on the collective mentalities of the various communities: European, Asian, African etc. So, we advance the hypothesis that these crises can have solutions provided that social sciences put them into the epistemological equation, with the specific analysis methods, techniques and tools and formulate real-time intervention solutions. Thus, besides the social sciences that have been limited so far to define the problems and make them a radiography the involvement of all social sciences is expected by formulating solutions, depending on community projects and on the specifics of collective mentalities existing in the local, zonal and national profile. Social sciences can provide qualified counselling for decision-makers, helping them to stop deciding based on impressionist opinions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indonesia as the 16th largest economy in the world, the 4th in Asia-after China, Japan and India as well as Southeast Asia’s largest-has the potential to be the seventh biggest by 2030, due to the increasing economic. Indonesia also has many potential natural resources that can be utilized to support development in order to increase the nation welfare. However, the number of poor people still has not been significantly reduced, reaching 28.07 million or 11.37% of the total population in 2013. The Government has tried to reduce poverty with some programs such as BLT (Bantuan Langsung Tunai/Direct Cash Assistance) and Jamkesmas (Jaminan Kesehatan Masyarakat/ Community Health Protection Scheme). However, the programs are considered not effective and do not make poor people become financially independent. Ironically, in inadequate evaluation, the Government continues to runs the programs. By using a qualitative approach, researchers will provide policy alternatives that can be implemented by Government.

Objective: definition of the new realities in the system of recruitment of a modern company. Method: abstract-logic. Results: basing on assessing the opinions of various scholars in the studied area of activity, the need to review the recruitment system is proved. The new realities of the labor market are considered as well as their impact on the company's management. The participation of managers in constructing the system interaction with the staff is highlighted, as well as the development of standards and formal rules expected from the staff performance. The examples are given of non-compliance approaches to the problem of hiring in modern companies. Scientific novelty: new realities of the labor market of a modern company are identified. the major stereotypes of managers concerning the staff are analyzed. Practical value: the ability to identify the main aspects of the personnel search and recruitment for effective results-oriented team.

Copyright of Romanian Review of Private Law / Revista Română de Drept Privat is the property of Universul Juridic Publishing House 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.)

An effective implementation of District Metered Areas (DMAs) in water distribution systems requires the analysis and cost comparison of various feasible solutions, which differ both in the number and the boundaries of the districts and provide different levels of benefits. The evaluation of the benefits provided by alternative DMA layouts (in terms of reduction of leakage, burst frequency, water and energy consumption) allows practitioners to make sensible decisions and create functional and efficient DMAs. This paper shows an analysis of the costs and benefits following the introduction of DMAs to water distribution systems, providing a framework for assessing the economic performance of DMAs, comparing different possible DMA layouts, and identifying the best solution among different options. A real water distribution network is considered as a case study, various DMA layouts are identified and ranked on the basis of the total benefit provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complexity is increasingly tied into systems of societies, technologies and organizations. As these systems are characterized by non-linear interactions, it becomes more and more difficult to manage, educate, understand and predict their processes and outcomes. This symposium presents cases of a variety of simulation games that facilitate in these different types of systems; it also examines the theoretical challenges of the design of simulation games for such complex systems. The examples show how both computer-based and traditional board games can be used in various domains to analyze and design complex processes such as asset management, manufacturing procedures, railway infrastructure innovations, and land use development. The case studies presented in this symposium introduce simulation games as alternative solutions to complex organizational and even societal problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article addresses the issue of energy security in the Ukrainian crisis given that about half of Russiafs gas exports to Europe pass through this country. The author warns o f the risk of confrontation with a new crisis similar to 2006 or 2009, when Europe was left without gas in the middle of winter because of disputes between Kiev and Moscow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The noise from traffic on roads can unpleasantly affect humans, and therefore we must search for means to reduce the intensity of the noise. It can be achieved either by reducing the sound intensity at the source (active measures) or by preventing the transmission of sound by shielding structures (passive measures). In both cases this can be achieved in several ways, which are briefly described in the article. Two main ways are typical for passive measures - either the sound is absorbed by a solid construction and it is subsequently converted to another energy (heat), or the sound is reflected off a monitored area. The combination of these two methods of noise reduction brings modern combined acoustic barriers with higher efficiency. One of such method is presented here, but the idea of sound absorption massive structure is replaced by the idea of damped oscillation lightweight construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Earthquakes that occurred in the Baikal seismic region in 1725, 1742, 1769, and 1829 are studied on the basis of original macroseismic information. Due to the fact that their parameters were previously determined using the combination of macroseismic and paleoseismic data, the goal of our investigation is to verify how well the solutions agree with the macroseismic evidence. Careful examination of macroseismic data includes, first of all, the searching for original sources, which cannot be replaced by any other data types, for instance, paleoseismic information characterized by questionable reliability. The completeness of analysis is achieved when different components are inspected separately before mixing. In the case when unequivocal data interpretation is impossible, it is better to consider different alternative solutions characterized by relatively narrow error ranges. Variants can be weighted correspondingly (at least, evaluated qualitatively). Otherwise we have to deal with the so-called 'average' solutions, often useless due to great determination errors. Magnitudes of all earthquakes estimated previously on the basis of macroseismic and paleoseismic data are not confirmed by the original macroseismic information, and revised magnitudes are essentially lower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cities worldwide are challenged by a number of urban water issues associated with climate change, population growth and the associated water scarcity, wastewater flows and stormwater run-off. To address these problems decentralised solutions are increasingly being considered by water authorities, and integrated urban water management (IUWM) has emerged as a potential solution to most of these urban water challenges, and as the key to providing solutions incorporating decentralised concepts at a city wide scale. To incorporate decentralised options, there is a need to understand their performance and their impact on a city's total water cycle under alternative water and land management options. This includes changes to flow, nutrient and sediment regimes, energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and the impacts on rivers, aquifers and estuaries. Application of the IUWM approach to large cities demands revisiting the fundamental role of water system design in sustainable city development. This paper uses the extended urban metabolism model (EUMM) to expand a logical definition for the aims of IUWM, and discusses the role of decentralised systems in IUWM and how IUWM principles can be incorporated into urban water planning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]