Showing papers by "National Defence University, Pakistan published in 2013"

Plasticized poly(lactic acid) with low molecular weight poly(ethylene glycol): Mechanical, thermal, and morphology properties

Abstract: Poly(lactic acid) PLA was plasticized with low molecular weight poly(ethylene glycol) PEG-200 to improve the ductility of PLA, while maintaining the plasticizer content at maximum 10 wt%. Low molecular weight of PEG enables increased miscibility with PLA and more efficient reduction of glass transition temperature (Tg). This effect is enhanced not only by the low molecular weight but also by its higher content. The tensile properties demonstrated that the addition of PEG-200 to PLA led to an increase of elongation at break (>7000%), but a decrease of both tensile strength and tensile modulus. The plasticization of the PLA with PEG-200 effectively lowers Tg as well as cold-crystallization temperature, increasing with plasticizer content. SEM micrographs reveal plastic deformation and few long threads of a deformed material are discernible on the fracture surface. The use of low molecular weight PEG-200 reduces the intermolecular force and increases the mobility of the polymeric chains, thereby improving the flexibility and plastic deformation of PLA.

Students’ Attitudes and Their Academic Performance in Nationhood Education

Abstract: The main goal of the nationhood education is to instill the sense of loyalty and passion into the nation. In a Malaysian context, several academic subjects at higher education such as Malaysian Studies, Ethnic Relations and National Language have been implemented in order to achieve the goal. Malaysian Study is one of the compulsory courses offered by all private universities in Malaysia that is intended to educate students with national values, patriotism and belongingness to the country. However, past empirical evidence show that many students have a lack of interest to learn such subject. Therefore, the current study investigated contributing factors to students’ academic achievement and also examined students’ attitudes towards that subject. Using quantitative approach, the current study categorized four main factors namely the suitability and interest in syllabus, being active in class, early preparation and revision, types of enjoyable activities, interest in teaching aids and good class attendance. Using questionnaires and SPSS software as the main tools in this study, the mean score, frequency and percentage were obtained. It is concluded statistically from this study that students’ perception of their lecturers play a significant role in determining their learning outcomes in Malaysian Studies, while the lecturers are of the opinion that learning environment is a factor which contributes significantly to the students’ achievement in this subject. The current study suggests that the teachers build upon excellent rapport with students and create an attractive and enjoyable environment to get the students to dynamically involve in the classroom activities and learn the Malaysian Studies enthusiastically and efficiently.

Physical Fitness Profiles of Young Men Associations Between Physical Fitness, Obesity and Health

Abstract: Obesity in youth has increased during the last 10 years in Western countries. Several studies have investigated physical activity and its effects on obesity and health, showing that regular physical activity combined with improved physical fitness reduces the risk of obesity and several metabolic problems (e.g. diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, heart disease) and also improves overall health. However, there is only limited scientific information available concerning the changes in the physical fitness profiles of youth. It is obvious that only slight changes observed in endurance-type physical activity can also be observed in aerobic capacity. Today and in the future, a major public health concern for teenage and young adults is the combination of increasing body fatness together with decreasing physical fitness. In order to evaluate overall fitness level, it is particularly essential to examine both aerobic and neuromuscular fitness. Therefore, in clinical practice work and health behaviour education, a person's physical fitness should be measured more frequently with various measures. Furthermore, population-based surveys should be combined with regular measurement of physical fitness to study sedentary lifestyles, particularly in young people. This article presents a review of current physical fitness profiles of male children, adolescents and young adults, which hopefully initiates further studies in this relevant scientific field. In addition, the importance of physical fitness level is evaluated in relation to obesity and health. Collectively, studies examining physical fitness profiles of young men suggest a disturbing worldwide trend of decreased aerobic fitness and increased obesity. Continued efforts to foster improved physical fitness and healthy lifestyles should be encouraged to combat these trends. Such efforts should include frequent and objective assessment of physical fitness rather than solely relying on subjective assessment of physical activity.

Multi-wavelength Brillouin-Raman fiber laser generation assisted by multiple four-wave mixing processes in a ring cavity

Abstract: A multi-wavelength Brillouin?Raman fiber laser (MBRFL) is generated by using a 7.7?km long dispersion compensating fiber which acts as both the Brillouin and Raman gain media. The MBRFL is pumped at 16?dBm with two Raman pumps at 125?mW. Eleven Stokes and anti-Stokes lines are generated with a line spacing of about 0.155?nm (?19.86?GHz) without any forward line reflection. By combining the backward and forward outputs, more lines can be generated, with narrower line spacings of about 0.077?nm (?9.93?GHz). The number of lines can be increased by having higher Brillouin and Raman pump powers. Since Raman amplification can be arranged at any wavelength region, the MBRFL can be obtained at any wavelength as long as all of the equipment and components are prepared in the proposed operational wavelength region.

Report On: 'The Impact of Culture on Creativity'

Abstract: This study is based on the impact of culture on creativity in the context of Pakistan and the main purpose of this study is to establish a frame work between Pakistani culture and its impact on creativity in term of societal/economical development Basically Culture represents the "knowledge, talent, and values" and creativity represents "innovation and advancement" Culture based creativity has three main components artistic skills, lateral thinking skills, and a conducive environment People use their mind’s ability to generate new resources, and by sharing new ideas and thoughts they can create vision and creative working environment So I found that through art and culture people can bring innovation and changes and it leads to the ways of success Creativity is very important in every field of life like in entrepreneurship, travel and tourism, in education, corporate social responsibility and even in sales and marketing We need to develop such flexible organization’s structure in which creativity and change can easily be implemented

Impact of Compensation, Training and Development and Supervisory Support on Organizational Commitment:

Abstract: The purpose of the study is to investigate the impact of compensation, training and development and supervisor support on organizational commitment in the cellular service industry of Pakistan. A large number of factors influence commitment of an employee within an organization, but this study focused on common and visible parameters happening in one’s service life. A questionnaire was used to gather data. Responses to each item are rated using a 5-point Likert-type scale. Participants of the research included 126 employees of five cellular service providers of the country. Statistical information in several areas was examined. The results revealed positive pattern of relationships between compensation, training and development and supervisory support and organizational commitment.

Data on Women's Participation in NATO Forces and Operations

Abstract: Participation alone is not sufficient. Women must not just sit at the peace table, they must be heard. Not only should women serve in police forces and peacekeeping missions, they must influence de...

Temperature green's functions in fermi systems: the superconducting phase transition

Abstract: We consider the model of an equilibrium Fermi system of arbitrary-spin particles with the density-densitytype interaction. Based on the microscopic Hamiltonian in the formalism of temperature Green’s functions, we find critical modes and construct an effective action describing a neighborhood of the phase transition point. A renormalization group analysis of the obtained model leads to the standard critical behavior indices for spin-1/2 fermions but shows that in the system of higher-spin fermions, a first-order phase transition occurs whose temperature exceeds the standard estimates for the temperature of a second-order phase transition.

Impact Response of Multi-Grooved Square Column

Abstract: This work aims to determine the response and impact energy absorbing capability of the square hollow section (SHS) column with U-shape grooves, subjected to dynamic mid span loading. Geometrical parametric study i.e. width and depth of the grooves and spacing between grooves was carried out using non-linear explicit finite element package ABAQUS. Comparison between plain SHS column with grooved SHS column in terms of initial peak force (IPF), specific energy absorption (SEA) and crush force efficiency (CFE) was carried out. It was found that the depth and width of the groove and spacing between grooves have significant effect on the impact response of SHS column. The grooved column has a higher SEA, shorter crushing distance but slightly lower CFE as compared to the plain column. This would make the grooved column a better option when designing for side intrusion protection.

Harmonizing Interoperability – Emergent Serious Gaming in Playful Stochastic CAD Environments

Abstract: Computer-Aided Design (CAD) applications often promote memorable experiences for the wrong reasons. Coupled with complex functionality and poor user experience the learning curve is often steep and overwhelming. Invoking design creativity remains limited to conveying established geometry. Gameplay conversely excels in memorable and formative experiences and could spur intuition and natural creativity. If games are profoundly imbued for purposeful play, thriving on tacit and explicit user knowledge, a CAD system carefully stylized with ludic mechanisms could potentially be highly productive. An emergent serious game (SG) and CAD system may then hold promise. Preliminary feedbacks suggest a game-CAD environment incorporating interoperable mechanisms of CAD and SG systems to exchange creation improves user interactions resulting in better evolution of the workflow. The emerging scenarios presented reports a transformative approach to understanding of relationships in CAD use, learning and play mechanisms that enhance creativity and innovation.

Determinants of Resource-Seeking Foreign Direct Investment: Co-Integration and Causality Analysis for Saudi Arabia

Abstract: Although, a vast amount of literature has emerged on determinants of FDI across the globe, yet research in a Saudi Arabian context remains limited. This study is an attempt to fill this gap where determinants of resource-seeking FDI are analyzed over a period of 30 years. The study uses Johansen tests of cointegration to find out the effect of hypothesized variables as determinants of resource -seeking FDI. In order to determine a causal linkamong the tested variables, a Granger causality test is also conducted. On overall basis, it can be concluded that the resource -seeking FDI in the country is mainly driven by greater trade openness, resilient fiscal performance and existence of greater oil reserves.

Field-theoretic technique for irreversible reaction processes

Abstract: The single-species annihilation reaction A + A → O/ is studied in the presence of random advecting field. In order to determine possible infrared behaviour of the system all stable fixed points are presented to two-loop approximation in double (∈, Δ) expansion with the corresponding regions of stability. The main result of this paper is the calculation of all the renormalization constants and the decay exponent to the second-order precision as well as calculation of scaling function the mean particle number to the first order. Effects of random sources and sinks on reaction kinetics in the master-equation description have been investigated in the framework of a field-theoretic model, obtained by the “second quantization” a la Doi of the corresponding master equation. It has been demonstrated that random sources and sinks have a significant effect on the asymptotic behaviour of the model and two universality classes for their description have been identified by the scaling analysis. Results are compared with the Langevin-equation description of the same process.

Contour-ordered Green’s functions in stochastic field theory

Abstract: We briefly review the functional formulation of the perturbation theory for various Green’s functions in quantum field theory. In particular, we discuss the contour-ordered representation of Green’s functions at a finite temperature. We show that the perturbation expansion of time-dependent Green’s functions at a finite temperature can be constructed using the standard Wick rules in the functional form without introducing complex time and evolution backward in time. We discuss the factorization problem for the corresponding functional integral. We construct the Green’s functions of the solution of stochastic differential equations in the Schwinger-Keldysh form with a functional-integral representation with explicitly intertwined physical and auxiliary fields.

Changing dynamics of south asian balance-of-power

Abstract: The emergence of nuclear factor in international politics has overwhelming transformed the essence of balance-of-power concept. This dynamic is an escalation of political dimension of balance-of-power and reduction of military aspect (hard power). However some realists argue that in world politics military and political both characteristics of balance-of-power indeed shape nation-states’ balancing approach against dominant players in a system. Therefore weak players get engaged with strong one stopping its opponent’s military threat and having deterrence capability. As a result, strategic balancing comes to light. As the focus of the study is concerned, this entire scenario can be seen amid two major players of South Asia i.e. Pakistan and India. It has been analyzed that the balance-of-power politics has long been troubling due to hard power imbalance between Pakistan and India since independence. Besides the influential role of superpower(s) in the theatre of South Asian politics has also been a great disturbing factor for regional equilibrium and widening hard power unevenness where the U.S. or (USSR in past) is/were trying to maintain global balance in Asian-oriented global politics by making dyadic strategic partnerships with regional players. As the strategic triangle - Pakistan-China-India - seems quite significant wherein Pak-China strategic relationship has emerged owing to one of the very basic and common Indian factor and China being the most adjacent player of South Asian region has played a role by creating a balancing aptitude in its relations with both India and Pakistan whereas the U.S. (as a sole superpower) could not do this. While changing dynamics in India and U.S. partnership regarding strategic balancing after civil nuclear deal, Pakistan and China both have also strengthened their 60-years old strategic relationship. As a result, the strategic quadrangle - the U.S.-India-China-Pakistan is getting eminent as a new dynamic of the South Asian balance-of-power politics.

Two-loop calculation of anomalous kinetics of the reaction A + A → Ø in randomly stirred fluid

Abstract: The single-species annihilation reaction A + A → O is studied in the presence of a random velocity field generated by the stochastic Navier-Stokes equation. The renormalization group is used to analyze the combined influence of the density and velocity fluctuations on the long-time behavior of the system. The direct effect of velocity fluctuations on the reaction constant appears only from the two-loop order, therefore, all stable fixed points of the renormalization group and their regions of stability are calculated in the two-loop approximation in the two-parameter (e, Δ) expansion. A renormalized integro-differential equation for the number density is put forward which takes into account the effect of density and velocity fluctuations at next-to-leading order. Solution of this equation in perturbation theory is calculated in a homogeneous system.

The outcome of combining home based and clinic based amblyopia therapy among preschool children.

Abstract: This study determined the outcome of combining home based and clinic based amblyopia therapy among preschool children. A total of 479 preschool children were randomly selected for vision screening. Amblyopic therapy was prescribed to children whose visual acuity (VA) could not be improved to <0.1 LogMAR after a 6 week adaptation period with glasses. Intensive near work activities were conducted daily at home for 12 weeks, monitored by parents while weekly therapy was conducted at the optometry clinic by an optometrist. Six preschool children were diagnosed with refractive amblyopia, spherical equivalent (SE) was -11.25D to +0.75D. Significant improvement was found in the VA of right eye, t(6) = 3.07, left eye t(6) = 3.07 and both eyes t(6) = 3.42) p<0.05, at the end of the 12 week therapy. Combining home based and clinic based amblyopia therapy among preschool children showed a positive improvement in VA after 12 weeks of therapy.

Preparation and characterization of poly-3- hydroxybutyrate/poly (butyleneadipate-co- terephthalate)/layered double hydroxide nanocomposites

Abstract: Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate/Poly(butyleneadipate-co-terephthalate)/layered double hydroxide (PHB/PBAT/LDH) nanocomposites were prepared from PHB/PBAT blend and stearate Zn3Al LDH via a solution casting method in this study. By using co-precipitation method, the pristine Zn3Al LDH was prepared from nitrate salts solution at pH 7 and then modified by stearate anions through an ion exchange reaction. This modification increased the basal spacing of the LDH from 8.77 to 24.94 A. The stearate Zn3Al LDH infrared spectrum showed the presence of stearate ions in the synthesized Zn3Al LDH. Mechanical properties of the nanocomposites with 2 wt% stearate Zn3Al LDH content show 56 wt% improvements in elongation at break compared to those of the blend.

Parallel implementation of fourth order block backward differentiation formulas for solving system of stiff ordinary differential equations

Abstract: Parallel implementation of fourth order Block Backward Differentiation Formulas (BBDF(4)) is presented for a numerical solution of first order stiff ordinary differential equations (ODEs). This method computes the numerical solution at two points concurrently in each block. The sequential and parallel codes are developed on Message Passing Interface (MPI) library and run on High Performance Computing (HPC). The performance of this new method is measured in terms of Speedup (Sp) and Efficiency (Ef). It is shown that the parallel implementation BBDF(4) produced a better speed up compared to the sequential timing.

Volatility of Exchange Rate Effecting Trade Growth: A Case of Pakistan with US, UK and UAE

Abstract: Primary objective of this paper is to investigate fluctuations in trade of Pakistan resulting from volatility in exchange rate of three of the major trading partners including United States of America, United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates This paper covers a longer period of time from 1988:8 to 2011:6 using monthly data ADF is used to check stationarity of the variables, Garch estimates volatility of exchange rate, co-integration measures long run relationship, VECM estimates adjustment in trade growth in short run due to change in exchange rate Empirical results show a negative effect between trade growth and exchange rate

Way forward to south asian water crisis

Abstract: South Asia is an enriched land with abundant manpower, highest glaciated mountains, long blue water coast lines, flowing rivers, vast plains, natural gas reserves etc but unfortunately, the major portion of inhabitants of this region is living below the poverty line and suffering with crises like shortage of food, energy and water. Judicious utilization of its natural resources is the only way to alleviate the basic lives of masses. In South Asia, the state’s dependence on water becomes the utmost factor in economy which ultimately assists in achieving the goals like self-sufficiency in food stuff and power production. Consequently, the water issue has given rise to estrangement in South Asia due to heavy dependence on water sources which mainly originate from Tibet and then flow through Indus and Ganga Basins. This study describes how countries like India, China and Nepal while claiming ownership of water resources have manipulated power politics, giving rise to the phenomenon of hydro politics. On the other hand, India thinks China is manipulating water sources and creating shortage of water for her population. She is also interested in redefining or “reimagining” the Indus Water treaty. The water crisis is also a result of mismanagement, unjustified distribution of resources and violation of implementation of existing treaties. In short, the paper is aimed to diagnose and explore water issue and suggest plausible solution.

Evaluation of Triple Indices in Retrieving Web Documents

Abstract: Indexing is one of the important technique used to make searching and retrieval process more accurate and faster. In this paper, the indexing features of triple stores are investigated to see the pattern of semantic indexing that will improve the current information retrieval indexing. To do the evaluation, we choose the best triple stores, Allegro Graph. AllegroGraph require more than one triple indices pattern to be matched with the query. Therefore we do the evaluation of triple indices to determine which triple indices pattern gives for fast retrieval. During experiment, we use RDF data. Then we matched the triple indices pattern with the SPARQL query to retrieve the relevant data. As the result, it would take longer if the system contains unneeded triple indices which will waste CPU times and disk space. Removing unneeded triple indices pattern will provide for fast retrieval.

Economic Conditions of Pakistan and Their Impact on FDI

Abstract: IntroductionThe economy of Pakistan is the 27th largest in the world in terms of purchasing power parity (PPP), and 47th largest in terms of nominal GDP. Pakistan has three main sectors in his economy which encompasses agriculture sectors, services sector and industrial. Pakistan’s economy is in a downward spiral and is passing through a period of slow growth, mainly on account of security challenges, political instability, natural disasters, weak global economy and energy crisis. Pakistan’s economy is mostly dependent on agriculture sectors throughout of his independent. The importance of the agriculture sector increases manifold because of its strong influence over demand for industrial goods and services. Because of the devastating floods for two three consecutive years has ruined agriculture sector badly. Textile sector is also dependent on agriculture sector. Textile industry has been growing through one of the toughest periods in recent years because of sever energy crisis, low international demand. There are many other industries are also dependent of agriculture sectors. Sustained growth in services sector is an important drive of overall economic growth of an economy. The development experiences manifest that the services sector not only engenders growth in agricultural and manufacturing sectors but also results into greater economic integration with the development world. The services sector in Pakistan has also posited considerable growth episodes over the last decade and now claims the largest share in GDP. In last few years terrorist attacks has damaged the services sector badly in Pakistan. These economic conditions of Pakistan have great impact on foreign direct investment in the country, which is decreasing very sharply.Statement of the ProblemForeign Direct Investment (FDI) fell by 48.2% during July-March 2011-12 and stood at $599 million as against $1157 million during the comparable period of last years. The portfolio investment decreases by 148.5% as it turned to outflow of $83 million against inflow of $305 million in the corresponding period of last year because of the recent economic conditions of Pakistan.Purpose of the studyThe purpose of the study is to analyze the current economic conditions of Pakistan and their impact on Pakistan. In this study we will deeply analyze the three major economic sectors of Pakistan’s economy and their positive and negative impact on FDI. In this study we will also follow the most recent political conditions of Pakistan and their impact on economy. Beside energy crises and security conditions in Pakistan are also the part of this study.HypothesisHo = the current economic conditions are not decreasing the FDI in PakistanHa = the current economic conditions are decreasing the FDI in PakistanLiterature Review“In its latest report on Pakistan’s economy, The World Bank has painted a dismal report in which it has reported a noticeable decline in per capita income (PCI), and increase in unemployment by volumes. Expressing its deep apprehensions over Pakistan’s economic progress, it has said that progress had slowed considerably, and Pakistan was lagging well behind even such SAARC counterparts as Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri-Lanka and India. The report cites political tensions, confrontations and natural calamities, chiefly floods, as the main reasons for this sad state of affairs. “Pakistan’s economy is estimated to grow by 3.7% against the target of 4.2% set for the year 2011-12 and actual growth of 3% in 2010-11. Agriculture sector is estimated to grow by 3.1% as against the target of 3.4%. The rain damaged agriculture sector badly in lower Sindh Industrial sector is also shown downfall due to the shortage of gas and electricity in the Pakistan. “The services sector grew by 4% which is below the targeted growth of 5% and actual growth of 4.5% last year.National Saving is estimated to fall from 13.2% of GDP to 10.8% in 2011-12 as against the target of 13.2%. Real private and public investment both fell by 13% and 8.4% respectively.MethodologyI shall use both qualitative and quantitative research to solve the problem. In this research I shall collect both the qualitative data and quantitative data with primary and secondary resources. In qualitative research I shall see the economic instability of the country, security problem of the country and their overall impact on country and FDI. In quantitative research I shall collect the data of agriculture, services and industrial sector data of last ten years and the FDI data of last ten years and then compare their impacts and the results.

Linear Free Energy Relationship (LFER) Analysis of Dissociation Constants of 8-Hydroxyquinoline and Its Derivatives in Aqueous and Dioxane–Water Solutions

Abstract: The linear free energy relationship (LFER) analysis based on the Hammett equation has been applied for dissociation processes of 8-hydroxyquinoline and its derivatives in aqueous and 1,4-dioxane-water solutions. The effects of temperature, composition, and ionic strength of the solutions have been discussed. The derived semiempirical correlations are of high statistical quality and of good predictive power which permit the reliable evaluation of dissociation constants 8-hydroxyquinoline and its derivatives under specified experimental conditions: (i) temperature from (289 to 333) K, (ii) mol fraction of 1,4-dioxane ranging from (0 to 0.380), and (iii) ionic strength of solution changing from 0 to 5 mol·dm–3.

A Legal Assessment of the US Drone Strikes in Pakistan

Abstract: While assessing the legality of the US drone strikes in Pakistan, this article takes into account the nature of armed conflict which has potential to be converted into an international armed conflict (IAC) from a non-international armed conflict (NIAC). The growing trust-deficit between Pakistan and the US is catalyst for determination of nature of armed conflict. The arguments based on tacit consent of Pakistan no longer stands valid after a clear protest by Pakistani officials at national, bilateral and international level. It also examines the observance of the rules of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in comparison with official US statements. Continued drone strikes are now being considered as counter-productive and resulting in increased suicide bombing in various cities of Pakistan. The author suggests a collaborative effort by considering other social, political and economic factors to minimize the violation of IHL for desired results.

Smoothing of GRF data using functional data analysis technique

Abstract: Filtering is necessary in most digital signal processing. Data generated by mechanical equipment usually contains noise or spikes that need to be filtered before further processing occurs. This paper describes a method for smoothing or filtering spikes or noise present in the data by using a functional data analysis approach applied to biomechanical ground reaction force data. Ground reaction force data were collected from ten military subjects, age 31 ± 6.2 years, weight 71.6 ± 10.4 kg and height 166.3 ± 5.9 cm, using the Vicon 1.4 motion analysis system, Kistler force plates and thirty nine body markers. The results show that the optimum smoothing for this kind of data is obtained using a B-spline basis, penalizing fourth derivatives and a smoothing amount lambda equal to 1e-12. Functional data analysis proved to be one of the best methods for handling ground reaction data because of its ability to smooth the data and also perform other statistical analysis after converting it in the form of functional data.

The Used of Pedal-Pad Effective Amplitude Transmissibility Value to Predict Size of Comfortable Pedal-Pads

Abstract: Vibration transmissibility from a car body to pedal-pad could result to drivers discomfort and fatigue, which may lead to health problems. Vibration transmissibility occurs when the vehicle engine is turned on and vibration is transmitted from the car body to pedal-pad in this research Pedal-pad effective Amplitude Transmissibility (PEAT) value was used to predict suitable size of the pedal-pad that could provide comfortable operation of the pedal. In this study, the variables are the three different sizes of pedal-pads and data was recorded while the car was moving on the road at constant speed with three different sizes of pedal-pads. The data was measured in root mean square (r.m.s) unit, of the frequency weighted acceleration (m/s2) for every minute. The finding of the study shows that percentage PEATr.m.s of the three different sizes of pedal-pad is greater than 100%. It shows that vibrations to pedal-pads are greater than vibration from the car body consequentially it means that the foot on the pedal is exposed to higher vibration transmissibility than the foot on the floor.

Analysis of microfibril angle in acacia mangium wood using small-angle x-ray scattering

Abstract: Microfibril angle, (MFA) in hardwood is one of the key determinants of solid timber performance due to its strong influence on the stiffness, strength, shrinkage, swelling, thermal-dynamics mechanical properties and dimensional stability of wood.. A method is presented for the measurement, using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), of the microfibril angle, (MFA) and the associated standard deviation for the cellulose microfibrils in the S2 layer of the cell walls of Acacia mangium wood. The length and orientation of the microfibrils of the cell walls in the irradiated volume of the thin samples are measured using SAXS and scanning electron microscope, (SEM). The undetermined parameters in the analysis are the MFA, (M) and the standard deviation (σФ) of the intensity distribution arising from the wandering of the fibril orientation about the mean value. Nine separate pairs of values are determined for nine different values of the angle of the incidence of the X-ray beam relative to the normal to the radial direction in the sample. The results show good agreement. The curve distribution of scattered intensity for the real cell wall structure is compared with that calculated with that assembly of rectangular cells with the same ratio of transverse to radial cell wall length. It is demonstrated that for β = 45°, the peaks in the curve intensity distribution for the real and the rectangular cells coincide. If this peak position is Ф45, Then the MFA can be determined from the relation M = tan-1 (tan Ф45 / cos 45°), which is precise for rectangular cells. . Here we shall present our results of the MFA in the cell wall with respect to its shape and structure as an important fast check and yet accurate towards the quality of wood, its uses and application.

The Mission of the Priest in the Thought of Blessed Jerzy Popiełuszko – a Modern Priest-Martyr from Poland

Abstract: The study entitled: La missione del sacerdote nel pensiero del beato don Jerzy Popieluszko – un martire contemporaneo della Polonia (“The Mission of the Priest in the thought of Bl. Jerzy Popieluszko, a modern priest-martyr from Poland”) explores the theology of priesthood in the light of the thought and example of Bl. Father Jerzy Popieluszko. The essay covers the following issues: 1) Fr Jerzy Popieluszko in the context of the times he lived in; 2) The mission of the priest is to be close to God and to people; 3) The mission of the priest is to proclaim the Good News; 4) The mission of the priest is to minister the Sacraments; 5) The mission of the priest is to nurture hope; 6) The mission of the priest is to die for the Faith. The Author concludes that the phenomenon of Fr Jerzy Popieluszko, which came into its full force after his martyr’s death, allows us to see him as a clear model for modern priests. The blessed martyr from Warsaw reminds us that sanctity can be attained and lived in all historical contexts. Fr Jerzy also comes across as an exemplar of a very engaged shepherd of souls who walked the path to holiness whilst also working closely with many lay people who showed a special readiness to work with him and solicitude for the good of the Church in a world at war against God, the Church and its priests.