My dissertation contains two separate components. One part is a theoretical examination of the effect of ownership structure on format choice in the radio industry. I use a Hotelling type location model to study the effects of mergers in the radio industry. I find that common ownership of two radio stations results in format choices that are more similar than under competitive ownership, and also that the stations will advertise more if they are operated under common ownership. Welfare results are ambiguous, but there is evidence that total welfare might decrease as the result of a merger, with obvious policy implications for the Federal Trade Commission and the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice who evaluate and regulate mergers in all industries. The second component is an empirical study designed to assess the effectiveness of a mathematical tutorial that I authored in conjunction with colleagues in the Math department here at Virginia Tech. I taught four large sections of Principles of Macroeconomics in the spring and fall of 2001. Each class met on MWF; two sections at 8 AM, one at 10:10 AM, and one at 1:25 PM. I required one of the sections (8 AM Spring) to review the module and take a proficiency quiz to demonstrate their skill level in basic math that is used in the Economics Principles course. Final average in the course is the dependant variable in a regression designed to discover which variables have explanatory power in determining performance in introductory economics. Besides exposure to the math module, I include other independent variables describing class time, semester, demographics and effort. In addition, I collected qualitative information about the students' perceptions of the module's effectiveness and administration. I find that exposure to the Math module does not have a significant effect on performance in the course. However, within the treatment group, there is a positive significant effect of time spent using the module on performance. Also, being registered for an 8 AM section has a significant negative effect. Overall, student comments indicate a dislike for the module. Students report that they prefer learning math skills through lectures by the professor and use of textbooks. / Ph. D.

<p dir="ltr">First-principles method is a powerful approach to study atomic scale physics. With its introduction into thermal transport community, the \textit{ab initio} description of quantized lattice vibrations, phonons, achieved great success in predicting thermal transport properties in the past decade. Though such method is well established, recent theoretical and experimental efforts uncovered new physics and raised new challenges to our community. In particular, high-order phonon anharmonicity, which was assumed to be negligible, shows great impact on thermal transport. Highly nonequilibrium electron and phonon transport occurs in emerging materials with nonuniform temperature field and the equilibrium assumption is no longer valid. Finite temperature effect is found to change the potential landscape even in systems that are quite harmonic, and the previous quasi-harmonic approximation fails. These physical understandings are also closely related to applications that are being extensively studied today: high thermal conductivity materials in thermal management, hot electrons phenomenon in thermal photovoltaic, high temperature radiative properties in thermal barrier coatings, etc.</p><p><br></p><p dir="ltr">In this Dissertation, we seek to establish new physical understanding in thermal transport by studying four-phonon scattering, phonon nonequilibrium behavior, phonon renormalization scheme and their interplay in a wide range of solid state systems. For the benefit of the community, we develop an efficient open-source computational program, \textsc{FourPhonon}, and keep updating its core features to drive sustained scientific innovations. This program is capable of calculating phonon-phonon scattering rates up to the fourth-order and the lattice thermal conductivity of solids ($\kappa$).</p><p><br></p><p dir="ltr">The Raman peak position and linewidth provide insight into phonon anharmonicity and electron-phonon interactions in materials. For monolayer graphene, prior first-principles calculations have yielded decreasing linewidth with increasing temperature, which is opposite to measurement results. Here, we explicitly consider four-phonon anharmonicity, phonon renormalization, and electron-phonon coupling, and find all to be important to successfully explain both the $G$ peak frequency shift and linewidths in suspended graphene sample over a wide temperature range. Four-phonon scattering contributes a prominent linewidth that increases with temperature， while temperature dependence from electron-phonon interactions is found to be reversed above a doping threshold ($\hbar\omega_G/2$, with $\omega_G$ being the frequency of the $G$ phonon).</p><p><br></p><p dir="ltr">While the Raman spectra concerns one particular optical phonon mode, we move to consider $\kappa$ that is determined by full phonon spectrum. The thermal conductivity of monolayer graphene is widely believed to surpass that of diamond even for few-micron size samples and was proposed to diverge with system size. Here, we predict the thermal conductivity from first principles by considering four-phonon scattering, phonon renormalization, an exact solution to phonon Boltzmann transport equation (PBTE), and an unprecedented sampling grid. We show that at room temperature the thermal conductivity saturates at 10~$\rm\upmu m$ size and above and converges to 1300~W/(m$\cdot$K), which is lower than that of diamond. This indicates that four-phonon scattering overall contributes 57\% to the total thermal resistance and becomes the leading phonon scattering mechanism over three-phonon scattering. On the contrary, considering three-phonon scattering only yields higher-than-diamond values and divergence with size due to the momentum-conserving normal processes of flexural phonons.</p><p><br></p><p dir="ltr">Higher-order phonon scattering affects heat conduction and thermal radiation at high temperature to a larger degree than at room temperature. We establish a computational framework to compute temperature-dependent full spectrum optical properties and high temperature $\kappa$ of ceramics materials. From ultraviolet to mid-infrared region, light-matter interaction mechanisms in semiconductors progressively shift from electronic transitions to phononic resonances and are affected by temperature. Here, we present a parallel temperature-dependent treatment of both electrons and phonons entirely from first principles, enabling the prediction of full-spectrum optical responses. At elevated temperatures, \textit{ab initio} molecular dynamics (AIMD) is employed to find thermal perturbations to electronic structures and construct effective force constants describing potential landscape. Four-phonon scattering and phonon renormalization are included in an integrated manner in this approach. As a prototype ceramic material, cerium dioxide (CeO$_2$) is considered. Our first-principles calculated refractive index of CeO$_2$ agrees well with measured data from literature and temperature-dependent ellipsometer experiment.</p><p><br></p><p dir="ltr">The lattice thermal conductivity ($\kappa$) of two ceramic materials, CeO$_2$ and magnesium oxide (MgO), is then computed up to 1500~K using first principles and the PBTE with the same level of physics, and compared to time-domain thermoreflectance (TDTR) measurements up to 800~K. Our calculated thermal conductivities from the PBTE agree well with literature and our TDTR measurements. Other predicted thermal properties including thermal expansion, frequency shift, and phonon linewidth also compare well with available experimental data. Our results show that high temperature softens phonon frequency and reduces four-phonon scattering strength in both ceramics. The temperature scaling law of $\kappa$ is $\sim T^{-1}$ for three-phonon scattering only and remains the same after phonon renormalization. This scaling for three- plus four-phonon scattering is $\sim T^{-1.2}$ but is weakened to $\sim T^{-1}$ by phonon renormalization. This indicates that four-phonon scattering can play an important role in systems where measured $\kappa$ decays with temperature as $\sim T^{-1}$, which was conventionally attributed to three-phonon only. Compared to MgO, we find that CeO$_2$ has weaker four-phonon effect and renormalization greatly reduces its four-phonon scattering rates.</p><p> </p><p dir="ltr">Phonon-phonon scattering, together with electron-phonon coupling, can often show strong selectivity and drive system out of thermal equilibrium. Measurements and a previous multitemperature model (MTM) resolving phonon temperatures at the polarization level have uncovered remarkable nonequilibrium among different phonon polarizations in laser irradiated graphene and metals. Here, we develop a semiconductor-specific MTM (SC-MTM) by including electron-hole pair generation, diffusion, and recombination, and show that a conventional phonon polarization-level model does not yield observable polarization-based nonequilibrium in laser-irradiated molybdenum disulfide (MoS$_2$). In contrast, appreciable nonequilibrium is predicted between zone-center optical phonons and the other modes. The momentum-based nonequilibrium ratio is found to increase with decreasing laser spot size and interaction with a substrate. This finding is relevant to the understanding of the energy relaxation process in two-dimensional optoelectronic devices and Raman measurements of thermal transport. </p><p><br></p><p dir="ltr">In summary, this Dissertation leverages first-principles method to explore thermal transport in emerging materials with a focus on high-order phonon scattering, phonon nonequilibrium behavior, and phonon renormalization. We reveal the importance of these effects in various phenomena including thermal conductivity, optical properties, Raman thermometry and thermal radiation control. </p>

Yes / This paper challenges ideas that it is possible to `get the institutions right¿ in the management of natural resources. It engages with the literature and policy specifying `design principles¿ for robust institutions and uses data from a river basin management project in Usangu, Tanzania, to illustrate the complexity of institutional evolution. The paper draws on emerging `post-institutionalist¿ perspectives to reject over-formalised managerial approaches in favour of those that accept the dynamic nature of institutional formation, and accommodate a variety of partial and contingent solutions. Data from Usangu suggests that external `crafting¿ is inevitably problematic because, to a certain extent, institutions elude design.

In the past decades, teaching and learning has undergone rapid transformation partly because of advances in technology and access to such technology (Sung, Chang, and Liu, 2016). Mobile technologies (i.e. tablets, smartphones, and access to Internet) have become widespread, and is visible, even in the developing world (Aguayo, Cochrane, and Narayan , 2017). Mobile technologies allow for online learners to access learning resources on the go (McQuiggan, McQuiggan, Sabourin, and Kosturko, 2015). Instructional message design principles advance empirical tools aimed at producing lessons that allow for effective learning (Bishop, 2014). The purpose of this study was to develop a set of considerations for designing messages for mobile learning primarily through literature review and expert reviewers' feedback. The research methodology employed in the study is based on design and development research methodology (Richey and Klein, 2007). The study utilized Clark and Mayer's (2016) multimedia principles, Center for Universal Design's (1997) universal design for instruction (UDI) and mobile interface design best practices. Five expert reviewers with varied expertise in human computer interaction, special education, mobile learning, and instructional design were sought to review the considerations and provide feedback on its effectiveness for instructional message design. Overall the expert reviewers agreed that the considerations were effective and will be helpful to instructional designers, instructors of instructional design and content developers. They provided several helpful recommendations which were used to revise the considerations for designing content for mobile phones. / Ph. D. / In the past decades, teaching and learning has undergone rapid transformation partly because of advances in technology and access to such technology (Sung, Chang, & Liu, 2016). Mobile technologies (i.e. tablets, smartphones, and access to Internet) have become widespread, and is visible, even in the developing world (Aguayo, Cochrane, & Narayan, 2017). The Mobile technologies allow for online learners to access learning resources on the go (McQuiggan, McQuiggan, Sabourin, & Kosturko, 2015). Instructional message design principles advance empirical tools aimed at producing lessons that allow for effective learning (Bishop, 2014). The purpose of this study was to develop a set of considerations for designing messages for mobile learning primarily through literature review and expert reviewers’ feedback. The research methodology employed in the study is based on design and development research methodology (Richey & Klein, 2007). The study utilized Clark and Mayer’s (2016) multimedia principles, Center for Universal Design’s (1997) universal design for instruction (UDI) and mobile interface design best practices Five expert reviewers with varied expertise in human computer interaction, special education, mobile learning, and instructional design were sought to review the considerations and provide feedback on its effectiveness for instructional message design. Overall, the expert reviewers agreed that the considerations were effective and will be helpful to instructional designers, instructors of instructional design and content developers. They provided several helpful recommendations which were used to revise the considerations for designing content for mobile phones

<p dir="ltr">There is a critical need for improvement in scientific data management when the big-data era arrives. Motivated by the evolution and significance of FAIR principles in contemporary research, the study focuses on the development and evaluation of a FAIR-compliant data resource portal. The challenge lies in translating the abstract FAIR principles into actionable, technological implementations and the evaluation. After baseline selection, the study aims to benchmark standards and outperform existing FAIR compliant data resource portals. The proposed approach includes an assessment of existing portals, the interpretation of FAIR principles into practical considerations, and the integration of modern technologies for the implementation. With a FAIR-ness evaluation framework designed and applied to the implementation, this study evaluated and improved the FAIR-compliance of data resource portal. Specifically, the study identified the need for improved persistent identifiers, comprehensive descriptive metadata, enhanced metadata access methods and adherence to community standards and formats. The evaluation of the FAIR-compliant data resource portal with FAIR implementation, showed a significant improvement in FAIR compliance, and eventually enhanced data discoverability, usability, and overall management in academic research.</p>

<p dir="ltr">The race to comply with the Paris Climate Accords fueled by the desire to combat climate change and a greater appreciation of balance of ecological systems requires reducing reliance on fossil fuels and transitioning to using clean energy. This transition is expected to be cleaner but be also material intensive. These materials, such as neodymium or graphite, have been deemed critical by the United States, due to their importance to future of the country. Therefore, efforts are being made to diversify their production (by discovering new manufacturing methods) or improve the material efficiency of their applications.</p><p dir="ltr">It is important that these new applications are analyzed for their environmental impact. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is widely accepted methodology for conducting environmental assessment on products and processes. Traditional LCA has 4 steps – goal, scope definition, life cycle inventory, and life cycle impact analysis. Applying traditional LCA techniques on these emerging technologies has challenges, as they are still emerging and have demonstrated their potential at various scales – theoretical, lab scale, pilot scale, or small-scale industrial level. Often, the new processes or products are compared against existing conventional manufacturing methods. Therefore, to appropriately assess the impact of these new emerging technologies against current ones, the scope must be extended to include the product or manufacturing system (which is the economic system under which these technologies will operate and compete against). This methodology is applied to 3 technologies at various stages of their development.</p><p dir="ltr">In the first case study, for magnets, by including the importance of energy product to the product system within the LCA, we see that the higher energy product of additively manufactured magnets directly translates to its environmental benefits relative to injection molded magnets. The next case study looked at a novel process to create battery grade graphite, demonstrated at lab scale. This process was scaled to an industrial level and assessed against conventional methods of manufacturing graphite. The scaleup allowed the LCA to identify the molten salt and the graphite anode to be a potential hotspot. Lastly, the potential green marketability of aluminum cerium alloys is investigated. The product system is extended to include the effect of this new application on cerium compound prices and therefore the economic allocation for the LCA. A Nash equilibrium is found based on market dynamics for aluminum cerium alloys to help resolve this issue.</p><p dir="ltr">The case studies show that allowing the product systems to inform the LCA can result in richer results, which help identify hotspots or opportunities for these technologies as they mature and compete against the conventional products or processes.</p>

No / This article explores the concept of internationally acceptable codes of ethics within the context of an Egyptian nurse’s PhD studies. Theoretical work, including gaining ethical approval for the project, took place in the UK, while the data collection phase of the study was done in Egypt. This highlighted areas where the Arab Muslim interpretation of some ethical principles, especially around the issue of gaining informed consent, differed from that currently accepted in British research ethics. The authors argue that it may not be possible, or even desirable, to standardize codes of ethics globally in areas such as academic research. Ethical principles develop from a unique mix of culture and religion. It may be more important to develop cultural competence that includes the ability to understand and respect the way in which ethical principles are interpreted by various societies.

This thesis explores the roles played by implied constitutional principles in fundamental rights cases in the common law jurisdictions of Canada, Australia, the Commonwealth Caribbean, and the United Kingdom. The two principles selected for this research are the separation of powers and the rule of law, both of which are relied upon in courts in common law states. The thesis examines the types of cases in which such principles are used, the possible reasons for the appeal of these principles, and the functions that they play in fundamental rights adjudication. The thesis begins with a brief discussion of the applications of the rule of law and the separation of powers, outlining the content of these principles as applied by the courts. However, the bulk of the analysis throughout the thesis is concerned with a thematic study of the functions played by the principles. It is argued that the principles are used as interpretative aids, as independent grounds for invalidating legislation, and as gateways to comparative legal analysis. The thesis ends by showing the necessary preliminary work that must be undertaken in order to engage in a thorough normative analysis of the use of implied principles in rights adjudication. Throughout the thesis, several themes are identified as key to our understanding of the functions played by implied principles in the cases discussed. One such theme is legitimization, specifically the role the principles play in the attempt to legitimize arguments, state institutions (particularly the courts), and the state itself. The theme of institutional self-protection also arises; it is evident in the use of principles to protect the jurisdictional sphere of the courts. The analysis of the operation of implied constitutional principles also highlights the legacy of Empire and the deployment of traditional principles to signal the maintenance of democratic traditions and institutions.

Legal principles are fundamental elements for every branch and sub-branch of the law. The same it is in the case of budget principles which are leading principles of the budgetary law. Due to their importance it is necessary to establish these principles to the law effectively. This work, entitled Budgetary principles and their reflection in valid legislation discusses to what extent is this requirement fulfilled in the Czech Republic. This diploma thesis is divided into an introduction and six chapters, the conclusions and list of sources. The aim of the work is the analysis of budgetary principles in terms of their reflection in the laws of the Czech Republic and the European Union. General characteristics of legal principles, as defined legal theory is outlined in the first chapter which follows after brief introduction. The second chapter of this thesis is devoted to mainly budgetary principles. The budget law and budgetary principles are defined in the introduction to this chapter. The attention in this chapter is focused on the analysis of the individual budgetary principles and their reflection in the current legislation. Of the all budgetary principles most attention is paid to the principle of equilibrium of public budgets which is a key theme of this work. Due to the lingering economic...

abstract: Principles of climate mitigation in environmental ethics often draw on either considerations of fairness and forward-looking concerns, or on justice and backward-looking concerns. That is, according to some theorists, considerations of the current distribution of climate benefits and burdens are foremost, while others take repairing historic wrongs as paramount. Some theorists integrate considerations of fairness and justice to formulate hybrid climate principles. Such an integrative approach is promising particularly in the context of environmental harm to indigenous subsistence peoples, who are among those suffering the most from climate change. I argue that existing integrative climate principles tend not to sufficiently emphasize considerations of backward-looking justice. This is a problem for indigenous peoples seeking reparations for environmental harm and violations of their human rights. Specifically, indigenous people in the Arctic suffer a cultural harm from climate change as they lose their land, and their way of life, to erosion, cementing their status as climate refugees. I argue that the current climate situation facing Native Arctic people is unfair according to Rawls' second principle of justice. In addition, the situation is unjust as indigenous people suffer from emissions by others and few attempts are made for reparations. Thus, Rawlsian fairness combined with reparative justice provide a befitting theoretical framework. I conclude that an acceptable climate principle will adequately integrate considerations of both fairness and justice, both forward-looking and backward-looking considerations. / Dissertation/Thesis / M.A. Philosophy 2014