Some groups of finite homological type

For each n greater than or equal to zero we construct a torsion-free group that satisfies K. S. Brown's FHT condition and is type F(n), but is not of type FP(n+1). <br/

The Yagita invariant of symplectic groups of large rank

Fix a prime $p$, and let $R$ be any subring of the complex numbers that is either integrally closed or contains a primitive $p$th root of 1. For each $n\geq p-1$ we compute the Yagita invariant at the prime $p$ for the symplectic group $Sp(2n,R)$.Comment: Minor changes compared to first versio

Chern classes and extraspecial groups

The mod-p cohomology ring of the extraspecial p-group of exponent p is studied for odd p. We investigate the subquotient ch(G) generated by Chern classes modulo the nilradical. The subring of ch(G) generated by Chern classes of one-dimensional representations was studied by Tezuka and Yagita. The subring generated by the Chern classes of the faithful irreducible representations is a polynomial algebra. We study the interplay between these two families of generators, and obtain some relations between them

Self-Directed Learning in Problem-Based Learning Versus Traditional Lecture-Based Learning: A Meta-Analysis

Problem-based learning is a student-centered, inquiry-based approach that builds problem-solving skills. Reviews of problem-based learning, as compared to traditional lecture-based learning, report modest positive gains in cognitive outcomes. Many metaanalyses have been conducted to analyze the effectiveness of problem-based learning, but none have examined self-directed learning in the context of problem-based learning. The purpose of this study was to conduct a meta-analysis across all disciplines examining the extent to which problem-based learning engenders self-directed learning compared to a lecture-based approach. This study used a random effects model meta-analysis using 75 outcomes from 38 studies. Results indicated a statistically significant, z(74) = 7.11, p = 0.01, overall medium effect size (g = 0.45) favoring problem-based learning. A test of heterogeneity indicated genuine variance across outcomes (Q = 559.57, df = 74, p \u3c 0.01). Subgroup analyses indicate positive effect sizes for the four components of self-directed learning with two being statistically significant: personal autonomy, g = 0.51, z(47) = 6.4, p = 0.01, and independent pursuit of learning, g = 0.66, z(2) = 3.49, p = 0.01. Two emergent subgroups were also examined. From the 23 subgroup components, 12 reported statistically significant effect size estimates above 0. Findings and conclusions provided the first synthesis of conative and affective outcomes in problem-based learning by specifically analyzing self-directed learning. From this synthesis, practitioners learn that problem-based learning promotes conative and affective skills in self-directed learning

Digital Commons Annual Report: Year One 2008-2009

This report shows the progress for Utah State University\u27s Digital Commons repository during it\u27s first year, from October 27, 2008 through October 31, 2009

Assessing Organizational Data Culture to Create an Ideal Data Ecosystem

The year 2015 marks a critical turning point in the global development arena. The Millennium Development Goals galvanized support and collaboration across sectors and now the world is recalibrating focus to prepare for the final push with the forthcoming Sustainable Development Goal Framework. We are also in the midst of a data revolution that aims to hold governments and organizations accountable to these goals and to ultimately create synergy between systems and processes in an ever-globalizing world. This paper intends to prompt discussion and learning around organizational readiness and preparedness for these imminent changes. Drawing from best practices within the Organizational and Business Development literature as well as from successful capacity building tools, I have created the Organizational Data Culture Assessment which allows organizations to evaluate the way they collect, manage, interpret, share, and use data. This will provide holistic insight into the data culture embedded within different functions of an organization. The assessment is particularly relevant given a recent emphasis in the development sector on scaling programming and incorporating information and communications technologies to enhance efficiency and ensure participatory monitoring and evaluation methods

Evidential Reasoning & Analytical Techniques In Criminal Pre-Trial Fact Investigation

This thesis is the work of the author and is concerned with the development of a neo-Wigmorean approach to evidential reasoning in police investigation. The thesis evolved out of dissatisfaction with cardinal aspects of traditional approaches to police investigation, practice and training. Five main weaknesses were identified: Firstly, a lack of a theoretical foundation for police training and practice in the investigation of crime and evidence management; secondly, evidence was treated on the basis of its source rather than it's inherent capacity for generating questions; thirdly, the role of inductive elimination was underused and misunderstood; fourthly, concentration on single, isolated cases rather than on the investigation of multiple cases and, fifthly, the credentials of evidence were often assumed rather than considered, assessed and reasoned within the context of argumentation. Inspiration from three sources were used to develop the work: Firstly, John Henry Wigmore provided new insights into the nature of evidential reasoning and formal methods for the construction of arguments; secondly, developments in biochemistry provided new insights into natural methods of storing and using information; thirdly, the science of complexity provided new insights into the complex nature of collections of data that could be developed into complex systems of information and evidence. This thesis is an application of a general methodology supported by new diagnostic and analytical techniques. The methodology was embodied in a software system called Forensic Led Intelligence System: FLINTS. My standpoint is that of a forensic investigator with an interest in how evidential reasoning can improve the operation we call investigation. New areas of evidential reasoning are in progress and these are discussed including a new application in software designed by the author: MAVERICK. There are three main themes; Firstly, how a broadened conception of evidential reasoning supported by new diagnostic and analytical techniques can improve the investigation and discovery process. Secondly, an explanation of how a greater understanding of the roles and effects of different styles of reasoning can assist the user; and thirdly; a range of concepts and tools are presented for the combination, comparison, construction and presentation of evidence in imaginative ways. Taken together these are intended to provide examples of a new approach to the science of evidential reasoning. Originality will be in four key areas; 1. Extending and developing Wigmorean techniques to police investigation and evidence management. 2. Developing existing approaches in single case analysis and introducing an intellectual model for multi case analysis. 3. Introducing a new model for police training in investigative evidential reasoning. 4. Introducing a new software system to manage evidence in multi case approaches using forensic scientific evidence. FLINTS

Benefits of belonging: experimental manipulation of social inclusion to enhance psychological and physiological health parameters.

OBJECTIVE: Acute changes in social belonging are important triggers for alterations in health and well-being, yet research has emphasised the negative effects of 'exclusion' at the expense of evaluating the potentially positive effects of 'inclusion'. This study examined the impact of acute belonging on physiological and psychological outcomes. DESIGN AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: A healthy population (N = 138) were randomly allocated to 'included' or 'excluded' conditions. Condition-dependent differences in pre/during-task heart rate and pre/post-task self-reports of negative/positive mood, and social self-esteem, were assessed. RESULTS: Included participants showed decreased heart rate and negative mood, and increased social self-esteem. No inclusion-related change in positive mood was shown. An increase in heart rate was observed in excluded participants though no changes in negative/positive mood or social self-esteem were shown. Shifts in social self-esteem acted as a mechanism through which inclusion/exclusion impacted upon negative and positive mood alterations. Results remained significant in presence of covariates (sex, global self-esteem, rumination and social anxiety). CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that acting to enhance belonging through 'inclusion' resulted in adaptive physiological and psychological outcomes. Neutral and potentially protective responses were observed in the immediate aftermath of 'exclusion'. Self-esteem served as one route through which these effects were transmitted