The statistical mechanics of multi-index matching problems with site disorder

We study the statistical mechanics of multi-index matching problems where the quenched disorder is a geometric site disorder rather than a link disorder. A recently developed functional formalism is exploited which yields exact results in the finite temperature thermodynamic limit. Particular attention is paid to the zero temperature limit of maximal matching problems where the method allows us to obtain the average value of the optimal match and also sheds light on the algorithmic heuristics leading to that optimal matchComment: 11 pages 11 figures, RevTe

Acquiring skills and attributes necessary for employment in junior administrative roles : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Education in Adult Education at Massey University

Tertiary pre-employment skills based programmes are designed to assist students in gaining the skills and academic qualifications needed to gain employment. This study explores the skills and attributes needed to gain employment in the business administration field. It explored this from the perspective of students and also from prospective employers' points of view. This research included a review of literature within the field of study and also focused on the delivery, material and outcomes of some business administration programmes. The teaching rationale of one polytechnic was also included as it showed how the way students learn and the desired outcomes have influenced the method of delivery. Integral to this study was the use of questionnaires that students and prospective employers filled out, and interviews with three employers and three students. This brought to light their views on skills and attributes, along with what they perceived as being important in gaining and giving employment opportunities. The research makes recommendations, from an educator's perspective, on what is required to enhance students' opportunities for employment within this field, and how programmes can be developed to allow opportunities for students to develop skills and attributes valued in business occupations

Rethinking the State-Local Relationship: Corrections

Examines issues for shifting correctional responsibilities for lower-level felons from the state to counties, including funding, jail time and early release, alternative sanctions, post-release community supervision, and coordination of social services

[Review of] Aldon Lynn Nielsen, ed. Reading Race in American Poetry: An Area of Act

For some time now it has been fashionable when reviewing any sort of anthology to focus critical lens on what the anthology leaves out. In both formal and informal reviews of literary anthologies and collections of essays what an editor does not include in his or her text often takes precedent over the relative virtues of the texts actually appearing in the anthology itself. In the most postmodern of moments, absence erases presence