bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of an intelligent stochastic model predictive controller for a continuous stirred tank reactor through a Fokker-Planck observer
Authors: Shakeri Ehsan , Latif-Shabgahi Gholamreza , Abharian Amir Esmaeili
Published: June 2017

Over the years, different methods have been presented to control continuous stirred tank reactors (CSTRs) in which stochastic behavior of process has rarely been considered. This article uses the stochastic model of CSTR to compute the temperature of coolant as process input in order to control the joint probability density function (PDF) of process concentration and temperature. The computation is carried out based on receding horizon-model predictive control (RH-MPC). Since observer has important role in the determination of process input, we use a nonlinear stochastic Fokker-Planck observer to calculate process PDF. The CSTR model is nonlinear and complex, so the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm is used for simplification of computations and for determination of the optimal value of process input. For this purpose, an MPC problem is described for which the cost function is defined based on the difference between the process PDF and a desired PDF. In this definition, temperature limitation of the coolant and the corresponding Fokker-Planck equation are both assumed as the problem constraints. When this MPC problem is solved by the use of PSO, the process input is calculated for each time window. The existence and uniqueness of our optimal solution is also studied. In the article, the Fokker-Planck equation for CSTR model will be solved by the use of path integral method. In this way, the joint PDF of process concentration and temperature is obtained for any instance of time. The simulation results are also obtained to evaluate the proposed method.
Linear Perspective and Framing in the Vista Paradox
Authors: Costa Marco , Bonetti Leonardo
Published: June 2017

The vista paradox is the illusion in which an object seen through an aperture appears to shrink in apparent size as the observer approaches the aperture. In four studies, we tested the effect of framing and fixating on the target object. The first two studies assessed the vista paradox in a large scale naturalistic setting in which a 162.26 -m long corridor was aligned to a 97.2 -m high tower (1,407 m away). In the first study, the results showed, for each 16 m section, a mean 9.95% tower enlargement in the moving backward condition, and a mean 11.62% shrinking in the moving forward condition. In the second study, participants had to compensate perceived width change adjusting the focal length of a photographic zoom lens. The results showed, for each 16 m section, a mean change in optical size of 26.37% in the experimental condition, and of 53.08% in the control condition. In the third study, we presented an identical vertical rectangle inserted within five frames differing in size. In the fourth study, linear perspective was added to the images. The results showed that both frame size and linear perspective cues were critical factors for the vista paradox illusion.
Fuck Nuance
Authors: Healy Kieran
Published: June 2017

Nuance is not a virtue of good sociological theory. Although often demanded and superficially attractive, nuance inhibits the abstraction on which good theory depends. I describe three “nuance traps” common in sociology and show why they should be avoided on grounds of principle, aesthetics, and strategy. The argument is made without prejudice to the substantive heterogeneity of the discipline.
Preparation and characterization of alginate/chitosan formulations for ciprofloxacin-controlled delivery
Authors: Kyzioł Agnieszka , Mazgała Aleksandra , Michna Justyna , Regiel-Futyra Anna , Sebastian Victor
Published: June 2017

In this work, alginate beads loaded with ciprofloxacin (AL_CP) and alginate beads loaded with ciprofloxacin and covered by chitosan (AL_CP_CS) were prepared by emulsification technique in combination with internal gelation method. Physicochemical characterization of the resulting formulations revealed the hydrodynamic diameter and Zeta potential ca. 160 nm and ca. −32 mV in the case of AL_CP and ca. 240 nm and ca. +14 mV in the case of AL_CP_CS (pH = 6.0), respectively. Kinetics of ciprofloxacin release from alginate/chitosan formulations was studied in different media (pH = 1.2, 6.8, and 7.4). Covering alginate core with a polycation such as chitosan moderates the drug release, resulting in a pH-sensitive hybrid controlled-release system. Herein, alginate beads with encapsulated ciprofloxacin covered with chitosan are proposed as an effective oral delivery system since the drug release from alginate core is limited in low pH solution (gastric conditions).
Key performance indicators for Australian mental health court liaison services
Authors: Davidson Fiona , Heffernan Ed , Greenberg David , Butler Tony , Burgess Philip
Published: June 2017

Objectives:

The aim of this paper is to describe the development and technical specifications of a framework and national key performance indicators (KPIs) for Australian mental health Court Liaison Services (CLSs) by the National Mental Health Court Liaison Performance Working Group (Working Group).

Methods:

Representatives from each Australian State and Territory were invited to form a Working Group. Through a series of national workshops and meetings, a framework and set of performance indicators were developed using a review of literature and expert opinion.

Results:

A total of six KPIs for CLSs have been identified and a set of technical specifications have been formed.

Conclusions:

This paper describes the process and outcomes of a national collaboration to develop a framework and KPIs. The measures have been developed to support future benchmarking activities and to assist services to identify best practice in this area of mental health service delivery.
Toward Establishing a Standard Symptom Set for Assessing Sluggish Cognitive Tempo in Children: Evidence From Teacher Ratings in a Community Sample
Authors: Becker Stephen P. , Burns G. Leonard , Schmitt Aidan P. , Epstein Jeffery N. , Tamm Leanne
Published: June 2017

Despite increasing interest in sluggish cognitive tempo (SCT) in children, the field is stymied by the lack of a standard symptom set that can be used across studies. Without a standard symptom set, it is difficult to determine if differences across studies are due to methodological or sample differences, or simply the way SCT was measured. To move the field toward a standard symptom set, this study evaluates a teacher-report rating scale of SCT revised based on recent meta-analytic findings that identified optimal items for distinguishing SCT from attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder inattention (ADHD-IN). Participants were 1,349 students (50.7% male) from grades 2 to 5. Teachers provided ratings of SCT, ADHD-IN, academic impairment, and social impairment. Exploratory structural equation modeling found 15 of the 16 SCT items to demonstrate excellent convergent validity and discriminant validity with ADHD-IN. The measurement properties of the SCT construct were also invariant across sex. SCT was uniquely associated with both academic and social impairment above and beyond ADHD-IN and sex. Although replication and extension is needed, the current study provides the strongest evidence to date of a possible standard symptom set that can be used across studies examining SCT in children.
Particle damping: Noise characteristics and large-scale simulation
Authors: Saeki Masato , Mizoguchi Takahiro , Bitoh Mika
Published: June 2017

The performance of a large-scale particle damper in a vertical vibrating system was investigated experimentally and theoretically. To use particle dampers on an industrial scale, their noise characteristics must be clarified and a large-scale simulation is essential. This paper presents the results of an experimental investigation of the effects of the particle material, mass ratio and diameter on the amount of noise generated by a particle damper. In the theoretical analysis, two computational methods for conducting large-scale simulations of particle damping are proposed. The validity of the numerical methods is examined by comparison with experimental results. It is found that the calculation time and memory usage are decreased considerably by using the computational methods.
Factional conflict in groups: How majorities and minorities relate to one another
Authors: Levine John M.
Published: June 2017

Disagreement between numerically larger (majority) and smaller (minority) factions in groups is both common and consequential. For these reasons, there is a long tradition of social psychological interest in the causes and consequences of such disagreement. Early work focused on minority members’ movement toward the majority (majority influence) and majority members’ (negative) perceptions and evaluations of those who refused to move. Later work focused on similarities and differences between majority influence and its mirror opposite, minority influence, and on majority members’ (sometimes relatively positive) perceptions and evaluations of minority members. This paper summarizes current knowledge on these topics and suggests promising avenues for future research.
Communication and group life: How language and symbols shape intergroup relations
Authors: Keblusek Lauren , Giles Howard , Maass Anne
Published: June 2017

In this article, we review the different functions that language and symbols (in particular clothing) fulfill in group life; language and clothing are rarely, if ever, discussed together in the same conceptual space. Our review includes a consideration of how social identities are communicated and discredited, boundaries crossed, and group norms established, maintained, and regulated. Throughout, we integrate motivational and social-cognitive approaches, ending with proposals for future research and theory in intergroup communication.
Ideology and the maintenance of group inequality
Authors: Major Brenda , Kaiser Cheryl R.
Published: June 2017

This article discusses the role that ideology plays in justifying and perpetuating group-based inequality. We begin by defining and describing status ideologies and their characteristics. We then review research illustrating how endorsing or rejecting status-legitimizing ideologies influences group stereotyping, group differences in perceived entitlement, and perceptions of discrimination. We next discuss how people respond to threats to their status ideology, affectively, cognitively, physiologically, and behaviorally. We close by considering the role of ideology in how high status groups respond to changes in the status hierarchy.
Posterior communicating artery aneurysms demonstrate faster interval growth than other growing aneurysms
Authors: Chien Aichi , Lau Vicky , Yi Quan , Chang Warren
Published: June 2017

Background

Posterior communicating artery aneurysms are often associated with a high rupture risk. This study compares the differences in the rate of growth and morphological characteristics between growing posterior communicating artery aneurysms and other types of growing aneurysms.

Materials and methods

Thirteen patients with growing internal carotid artery aneurysms were scanned using Siemens 64 slice computed tomography scanners. Three patients had ophthalmic aneurysms, three had superior hypophyseal aneurysms and seven had posterior communicating artery aneurysms. Each aneurysm case had three distinct time points, with an average separation time of 1.3 ± 0.6 years. Annual aneurysm dimensional growth, annual volume growth, annual increase in surface area, size ratio, aspect ratio, and non-sphericity index were analysed.

Results

Posterior communicating artery aneurysms demonstrated significantly higher annual increases in dimensional growth, volume and surface area when compared to other internal carotid artery aneurysms. Posterior communicating artery aneurysms also demonstrated a significantly higher increase in aspect ratio, size ratio and lower non-sphericity index.

Discussion

Posterior communicating artery aneurysms had significantly greater growth per year when compared to other types of internal carotid artery aneurysms, and had different morphological characteristics.
History Is Not Boring: Using Social Media to Bring Labor History Alive
Authors: Julien Mark , Stratton Micheal , Clayton Russell
Published: June 2017

This article features an innovative and engaging assignment to help students learn about labor history events. Labor history is more than just a collection of dates, facts, and figures. Rather, it is the study of the men, women, and children who fought for a workplace that many of today’s employees take for granted: paid leave, a 5-day workweek, potential legal representation of a union, and pensions. By imagining the key stakeholders with access to social media during the time of their chosen historical event, students develop a deeper understanding of the event’s impact and relationship to current practices. Educators seeking an alternate way of tasking students to examine stakeholder theory may also find this assignment useful. We leverage social media to counter the perception among some management students that history is boring with little to no connection to their lives.
Rituximab prophylaxis to prevent thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura relapse: outcome and evaluation of dosing regimens
Authors: Westwood John-Paul , Thomas Mari , Alwan Ferras , McDonald Vickie , Benjamin Sylvia , Lester William A. , Lowe Gillian C. , Dutt Tina , Hill Quentin A. , Scully Marie
Published: June 2017

Key Points

Rituximab is effective in preventing relapse in TTP patients in remission with low ADAMTS13 levels. Reduced-dose rituximab (200 mg) is associated with higher rates of re-treatment than the standard dose (375 mg/m2).
Protective effects of Xinji′erkang on myocardial infarction induced cardiac injury in mice
Authors: Hu Juan , Zhang Yong-xue , Wang Li , Ding Ling , Huang Guang-yao , Cai Guo-wei , Gao Shan
Published: June 2017

Background

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major risk factor responsible for morbidity and mortality. Xinji′erkang (XJEK) has been clinically used as an effective medication in the treatment of coronary heart disease and myocarditis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the cardioprotective effect of Xinji′erkang on MI mice.

Methods

Forty male mice were randomly assigned into four groups as follows (n = 10): sham, model, MI with administration of XJEK and fosinopril for four weeks. At the end of studies, hemodynamic parameters and electrocardiography (ECG) were recorded. Heart and body mass were measured and heart weight/body weight (HW/BW) ratio was calculated as index of hypertrophy. The hypertrophy of heart and aorta was examined using the hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining, and the collagen deposition was evaluated using Van Gieson (VG) staining. Serum nitric oxide level (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration were assayed by colorimetric analysis. The expressions of endothelial NO synthetase (eNOS) expression in serum and cardiac tissues were determined using ELISA assay and immunohistochemistry. Angiotensin II (Ang II) in serum and cardiac tissues was measured using ELISA assay. Besides, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin1β (IL-1β) and interleukin10 (IL-10) were observed in cardiac tissues with ELISA assay as well.

Results

The administration of XJEK significantly improved cardiac dysfunction and abnormal ECG with reduced HW/BW ratio and ameliorated cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and collagen deposition compared to MI, which was partly due to the decreased SOD and increased MDA in serum. Moreover, XJEK treatment also improved endothelial dysfunction (ED) with not only enhanced eNOS activities in serum and cardiac tissues and elevated NO levels in serum, but also decreased Ang II content in serum and cardiac tissues. Finally, protein expressions of pro-inflammation cytokines, TNF-α and IL-1β in the cardiac tissues with XJEK treatment were significantly decreased compared to model. On the contrary, IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine concentrated in cardiac tissues was significantly enhanced compared to model.

Conclusion

Xinji′erkang exerts cardioprotective effect on myocardial infarction in mice, which may be due to the improvement of endothelial dysfunction and the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation response.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Linc00152 promotes malignant progression of glioma stem cells by regulating miR-103a-3p/FEZF1/CDC25A pathway
Authors: Yu Mingjun , Xue Yixue , Zheng Jian , Liu Xiaobai , Yu Hai , Liu Libo , Li Zhen , Liu Yunhui
Published: June 2017

Background

Glioma is one of the most frequent intracranial malignant tumors. LncRNAs have been identified as new modulators in the origination and progression of glioma.

Methods

Quantitative real-time PCR were conducted to evaluate the expression of linc00152 and miRNA-103a-3p in glioma tissues and cells. Western blot were used to determine the expression of FEZF1 and CDC25A in glioma tissues and cells. Stable knockdown of linc00152 or over-expression of miR-103a-3p in glioma stem cells (GSCs) were established to explore the function of linc00152 and miR-103a-3p in GSCs. Further, luciferase reports were used to investigate the correlation between linc00152 and miR-103a-3p. Cell Counting Kit-8, transwell assays, and flow cytometry were used to investigate the function of linc00152 and miR-103a-3p in GSC malignant biological behaviors. ChIP assays were employed to ascertain the correlations between FEZF1 and CDC25A.

Results

Linc00152 was up-regulated in glioma tissues as well as in GSCs. Knockdown of linc00152 inhibited cell proliferation, migration and invasion, while promoted GSC apoptosis. Linc00152 regulated the malignant behavior of GSCs by binding to miR-103a-3p, which functions as a tumor suppressor. In addition, knockdown of linc00152 down-regulated forebrain embryonic zinc finger protein 1 (FEZF1), a direct target of miR-103a-3p which played an oncogenic role in GSCs. FEZF1 elevated promoter activities and up-regulated expression of the oncogenic gene cell division cycle 25A (CDC25A). CDC25A over-expression activated the PI3K/AKT pathways, which regulated the malignant behavior of GSCs.

Conclusions

Linc00152/miR-103a-3p/FEZF1/CDC25A axis plays a novel role in regulating the malignant behavior of GSCs, which may be a new potential therapeutic strategy for glioma therapy.
‘Make life for communists as difficult as possible’ State-run anticommunism and ‘psychological warfare’ in the early years of the Federal Republic of Germany
Authors: Creuzberger Stefan
Published: June 2017

The Ministry for All-German Affairs held a special place among the government departments with a right to define public anticommunist counter-intelligence. At the height of the Cold War it concentrated on advancing the activities of private bodies, and as such had a significant influence on their anticommunist thinking.
2017 ISCB Accomplishment by a Senior Scientist Award: Pavel Pevzner
Authors: Fogg Christiana N. , Kovats Diane E. , Berger Bonnie
Published: June 2017

The International Society for Computational Biology (ISCB) recognizes an established scientist each year with the Accomplishment by a Senior Scientist Award for significant contributions he or she has made to the field. This award honors scientists who have contributed to the advancement of computational biology and bioinformatics through their research, service, and education work. Pavel Pevzner, PhD, Ronald R. Taylor Professor of Computer Science and Director of the NIH Center for Computational Mass Spectrometry at University of California, San Diego, has been selected as the winner of the 2017 Accomplishment by a Senior Scientist Award.

The ISCB awards committee, chaired by Dr. Bonnie Berger of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, selected Pevzner as the 2017 winner. Pevzner will receive his award and deliver a keynote address at the 2017 Intelligent Systems for Molecular Biology-European Conference on Computational Biology joint meeting (ISMB/ECCB 2017) held in Prague, Czech Republic from July 21-July 25, 2017. ISMB/ECCB is a biennial joint meeting that brings together leading scientists in computational biology and bioinformatics from around the globe.
СЕМАНТИКА ИМЕННЫХ ГРУПП ПОЭТОНИМОВ И ИХ ФУНКЦИОНАЛЬНЫЕ ОСОБЕННОСТИ В РУССКОМ ЯЗЫКЕ
Authors: Rybakova Anna Aleksandrovna
Published: June 2017

Цель. Статья посвящена проблеме изучения поэтонимов как пласта именных лексем русского языка, употребляемых в художественных произведениях. Предметом анализа выступают имена собственные, которые являются неотъемлемым компонентом семантико-стилистической системы словоупотребления эпиграммистов. Автор ставит целью раскрыть роль поэтонимов в организации семантического пространства текста русских эпиграмм.Метод или методология проведения работы. Основным методом исследования является описательный с непосредственным наблюдением и интерпретацией языковых фактов. Он позволяет наглядно показать зависимость употребления поэтонимов от целевого назначения жанра эпиграммы.Результаты. Результаты работы заключаются в том, что автор проводит семантический анализ имен собственных в текстах эпиграмм и показывает эволюцию жанра в использовании поэтонимов: обобщенные имена лиц с определенными нравственными недостатками сменяются каламбурно обыгрываемыми реальными именами и фамилиями адресатов.Область применения результатов. Результаты исследования могут быть применены в практике преподавания стилистики русского языка, истории русского литературного языка, в спецкурсах по языку художественно-словесных жанров, в лингвистическом анализе художественного текста.
Understanding Uncontested Director Elections
Authors: Ertimur Yonca , Ferri Fabrizio , Oesch David
Published: June 2017

We examine the determinants and consequences of voting outcomes in uncontested director elections. Exploiting a unique hand-collected data set of the rationale behind proxy advisors’ recommendations—the primary driver of voting outcomes—we document the director and board characteristics on which voting shareholders focus (as well as those that they neglect), their evolution over time, and their relative importance. Absent a negative recommendation, high votes withheld are infrequent, highlighting the agenda-setting role of proxy advisors. While high votes withheld rarely result in director turnover, our analyses show that firms often respond to an adverse vote by explicitly addressing the underlying concern. Overall, it appears that shareholders use their votes in uncontested director elections to get directors to address specific problems, rather than to vote them onto or off of the board, but they do so only on matters highlighted by the proxy advisors.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2017.2760 .

This paper was accepted by Suraj Srinivasan, accounting.
Germination of Archontophoenix cunninghamiana (Australian king palm) seeds based on different temperatures and substrates
Authors: Da Luz Petterson Baptista , Tavares Armando Reis , Pivetta Kathia Fernandes Lopes
Published: June 2017

Archontophoenix cunninghamiana or Australian King Palm, is a very popular ornamental palm in Brazil. Although A. cunninghamiana is propagated by seeds, few studies have reported on seed germination of this species. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of different temperatures and substrates on the germination of A. cunninghamiana seeds. To carry out the temperature experiment, constant temperatures of 20, 25, 30 or 35 °C and alternating temperatures of 20/30 °C or 25/35 °C were used with four replications of 25 seeds each. For the substrate experiment, sand, vermiculite, and sphagnum moss were used with 7 replicates of 25 seeds per treatment in a completely randomized design. All temperatures, except 35 °C, favored the germination of A. cunninghamiana seeds (60%). Vermiculite was determined to be best suited for the germination of A. cunninghamiana seeds. Overall, the germination of A. cunninghamiana seeds is slow and uneven, in turn allowing for a longer period of germination.
A novel heterozygous IGF-1 receptor mutation associated with hypoglycemia
Authors: Solomon-Zemler R , Basel-Vanagaite L , Steier D , Yakar S , Mel E , Phillip M , Bazak L , Bercovich D , Werner H , de Vries L
Published: June 2017

Mutation in the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF1R) gene is a rare cause for intrauterine and postnatal growth disorders. Patients identified with IGF1R mutations present with either normal or impaired glucose tolerance. None of the cases described so far showed hypoglycemia. We aimed to identify the genetic basis for small for gestational age, short stature and hypoglycemia over three generations in one family. The proband, a 9-year-old male, presented in infancy with recurrent hypoglycemic episodes, symmetric intrauterine growth retardation and postnatal growth retardation. Blood DNA samples from the patient, his parents, a maternal sister and maternal grandmother underwent Sanger sequencing of the IGF1R gene. Primary skin fibroblast cultures of the patient, his mother and age- and sex-matched control donors were used for gene expression and receptor functional analyses. We found a novel heterozygous mutation (c.94 + 1g > a, D1105E) affecting the splicing site of the IGF1R mRNA in the patient, his mother and his grandmother. Primary fibroblast cultures derived from the patient and his mother showed reduced proliferation and impaired activation of the IGF1R, evident by reduced IGF1R and AKT phosphorylation upon ligand binding. In conclusion, the newly identified heterozygous missense mutation in exon 1 of IGF1R (D1105E) results in impaired IGF1R function and is associated with small for gestational age, microcephaly and abnormal glucose metabolism. Further studies are required to understand the mechanisms by which this mutation leads to hypoglycemia.
Malignancy rate of focal thyroid incidentaloma detected by FDG PET–CT: results of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Thuillier Philippe , Roudaut Nathalie , Crouzeix Geneviève , Cavarec Marie , Robin Philippe , Abgral Ronan , Kerlan Véronique , Salaun Pierre-Yves
Published: June 2017

Objective

To evaluate the malignancy rate of focal thyroid incidentaloma (fTI) in a population of patients undergoing a 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography (FDG PET–CT) for a non-thyroid purpose.

Design

We conducted a prospective cohort study from January 2013 to November 2014. All consecutive patients referred for a FDG PET–CT were prospectively screened. Patients with known neoplastic thyroid disease were excluded from the analysis. All patients presenting one or more fTI and who accepted to benefit from a complementary thyroid ultrasonography (US) were included and managed according to the French endocrine society consensus. Prevalence of fTI in our population and malignancy rate was assessed.

Results

During the inclusion period, 10,171 patients were referred for a FDG PET–CT in our center. Fifty-three patients presenting a known thyroid disease were excluded. Among the remaining 10,118 patients, 127 (1.3%) with 131 fTI were individualized. US could not be performed in 37 patients. The remaining 90 patients (92 fTI) were explored by US ± fine-needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). US results demonstrated a nodule aspect in 80 cases of which 60 benefited from FNAB. Nineteen of 92 fTI underwent surgery with 10 malignant lesions among the 60 patients performing both US and FNAB.

Conclusion

The prevalence of fTI discovered on FDG PET–CT in our population was 1.3% with 10 malignant lesions among the 60 patients performing both US and FNAB.
Diplomacia Pública: una nueva y moderna función de la Diplomacia que exige una formación específica
Authors: Portugal-de Rodrich María Luisa
Published: June 2017

La Diplomacia tradicional encuentra en las actividades culturales (promoción) y de prensa (difusión) de la Diplomacia Pública (DP) un medio eficaz para: conectarse con la opinión pública internacional, difundir y promocionar con acierto la imagen y la cultura del país al que representa; y, para relacionar e integrar culturas.Durante siglos, la reserva y el secretismo caracterizó el quehacer diplomático. Hoy, el nuevo orden internacional, el avance de la democracia, el protagonismo de la opinión pública, y el desarrollo de una tecnología que transparenta e internacionaliza actores y procesos, demandan nuevas formas de “hacer diplomacia”, traducida en la necesidad de la Diplomacia tradicional de aprender a convivir con una diplomacia abierta a los públicos internacionales.Desde comienzos del siglo XX, estas nuevas prácticas diplomáticas van incorporándose a la Diplomacia clásica, las que a partir de 1965 se denominarán en los círculos académicos y diplomáticos, como Public Diplomacy, o Diplomacia Pública, en alusión a su carácter abierto a las masas (Hansen, 1984).Debido a sus alcances y proyecciones en el ámbito científico y a su impacto positivo en las relaciones internacionales y en la vida diplomática misma, urge revalorizar su trabajo. El presente artículo persigue dos objetivos: sugerir a la Diplomacia y a la comunidad científica especializada en estos asuntos, la conveniencia de sumar esta función a las reconocidas oficialmente en la Convención de Viena de 1961; y plantear una formación especializada para los futuros diplomáticos públicos.
Spectral peak enhancement of biological fluids by magnetron-sputtered silver nanoparticles
Authors: Singh Aditya Narayan , Bhat Vineet
Published: June 2017

Body fluids recovered from crime scenes are one of the most indispensable forms of evidence for forensic investigators. Such evidence, although obtained in minute quantities, is priceless in assisting the identification of a suspect and exonerating an innocent individual. This work delineates spectral enhancement of trace elements obtained from the crime scene by using spectroscopic techniques. Sputtering silver nanoparticles on the samples resulted in spectral peak enhancement, which is attributed to quantum confinement and a localized surface plasmon resonance effect. The specimen was characterized using UV/visible spectroscopy; for morphological studies, scanning electron microscopy was used, and chemical surface analysis of the sample was carried out using Fourier transform infrared–attenuated total reflection spectroscopy and surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectrographic analysis. Additional enhancement in the peaks was observed in samples obtained from diseased blood. The augmented spectral peak pattern ascertained in the diseased blood can be a tool for narrowing down the investigation to smaller radii. The findings of this analysis will certainly help forensic investigators in confronting the tough challenges concerning crime scene management of body fluids in the long run.
A case study on geotechnical asset remote monitoring in Network Rail
Authors: Abrams Dave , Brown Mike
Published: June 2017

The majority of geotechnical assets on the UK railway were constructed over 150 years ago and some are exhibiting signs they are reaching the end of their serviceable life. It is often financially unviable to remediate the asset but the residual risk must still be mitigated. Remote condition monitoring (RCM) is traditionally used in longer-term studies of geotechnical asset failure using satellite and airborne comparison techniques. However, this paper focuses on the use of RCM as a safety mitigation measure to provide early warning of localised rapid earthworks failure in order to halt train movements or prompt further investigation. The inaccessible nature of the railway network provides unique challenges to the successful monitoring of infrastructure, including limited power source availability and communications. Two case studies are presented – Gillingham tunnel, Dorset, and a centralised pilot study aimed at standardising geotechnical RCM across Network Rail.
Cross-Border Insolvency Law in Europe: Present Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Wessels Bob
Published: June 2017

In May 2007 the European countries celebrated the first lustrum of the EU Insolvency Regulation (1346/2000). This article describes where Europe stands with its model which is based on well known theories of private international law for dealing with cross-border insolvencies. The EU Insolvency Regulation provides for a national court to exercise international jurisdiction to open insolvency proceedings. The basis for international jurisdiction is the debtor’s “centre of main interests” or COMI. The two most important cases decided by the European Court of Justice (17 January 2006 Staubitz Schreiber and 2 May 2006 Eurofood) are discussed. The article further analyses the regulation’s legal concept and its procedural context and explains that 'financial institutions' are not covered by the Insolvency Regulation, but by separate directives (2001/17; 2001/24). After having taken stock several suggestions are submitted for improvement of the system of cross-border insolvency in Europe.
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly: Using good and Cooperative Governance to improve Environmental Governance of South African World Heritage sites: A Case Study of the Vredefort Dome
Authors: Kotzé Louis , De la Harpe S
Published: June 2017

South Africa became a signatory to and ratified the World Heritage Convention, 1972 (WHC) in 1997. It thereby voluntarily agreed to identify and conserve world heritage areas of universal value for the benefit of mankind. This article presents a case study of the Vredefort Dome, one of South Africa's World Heritage Sites (WHS) and specifically its governance strategies to ensure proper and sustainable governance. Firstly, the issue of fragmentation of the environmental governance regime applicable to WHS is discussed, and in doing so, refers to the various legislative and common law responsibilities and institutional structures related to environmental governance of WHS. Secondly, it briefly discusses the concept of good governance and the concept of cooperative governance as a sub-component of good governance. Finally it comprehensively proposes various strategies to ameliorate the current fragmented and unsustainable environmental governance effort relating to WHS.
Good Governance
Authors: De la Harpe S , Rijken C
Published: June 2017

This issue of the Potchefstroom Electronic Law Journal (PELJ) is entirely dedicated to the concept of good governance. It is the outcome of the first Summer/Winter school on Good Governance which was held at North-West University, Potchefstroom (SA) in January 2006 and at Tilburg University, Tilburg (NL) in January 2007. This Summer/Winter school has now become a yearly event with a bi-annual theme. Academic staff from both universities collaborate in teaching this course. Students from the two universities who participate in the Summer/Winter school have the unique possibility to deepen their knowledge on a particular subject while enjoying a cross-cultural learning environment. The subject of good governance was not selected by chance but was chosen because of its impact in many fields and the many ways in which the concept is used. It was time for a deeper insight into this multiple role of the concept of good governance. The contributions to this journal are the analytical outcome of the research done in preparation for the lectures given during the Summer/Winter school. As the contributions directly apply the good governance concept to various specific fields of expertise, this introduction will be used to give a short reflection on the concept as such.
A commentary on the positive discrimination policy of India
Authors: Deane Tameshnie
Published: June 2017

Affirmative action and discriminatory measures are complex and controversial issues. The goal of affirmative action is to speed up the creation of a representative and equitable workforce and to assist those who were historically disadvantaged by unfair discrimination to fulfil their maximum potential. The term invokes emotions that range from fear and rage to satisfaction. Affirmative action has encouraged an ongoing debate regarding the legal, moral and economic questions arising from the preferential treatment of certain groups of people in society. Underlying this debate are various concerns about the notion of reverse discrimination or the unfair disadvantage to individuals who bear no responsibility for past or present discrimination practised by others. This article states the current position with regard to the caste system and the reservation of jobs in the Republic of India in the context of affirmative action and the achievement of equality in the workplace. Its purpose is to highlight the extreme division of opinion about what is socially acceptable, namely, caste. Further, it provides the reader with an understanding of the need for affirmative action in the first place in India, and thereby creates a powerful tool for understanding discrimination and the need for affirmative action measures. Another goal is to provide useful guidelines and information to all persons involved in implementing affirmative action programmes. It serves to show that if affirmative action measures and/or discriminatory measures are not properly thought out then affirmative action becomes burdensome and even more discriminatory, rather than being a means of achieving equality and redressing past wrongs.
The Duty to Effect an Appropriate Mode of Payment to Minor Pension Beneficiaries under Scrutiny in Death Claims
Authors: Mhango M , Dyani N
Published: June 2017

his note focuses on the payment into a trust arrangement in favour of a minor beneficiary as contemplated in terms of section 37C (2) of the Pension Funds Act 24 of 1956. The aim is to examine the criteria under which the boards of management of pension funds may deprive a guardian the right to administer benefits on behalf of minor beneficiaries. This examination is conducted within the context of the approach adopted by the Pension Funds Adjudicator in four specific determinations decided prior, but relevant, to the amendments to the Pension Funds Act, where the board in each case unlawfully deprived a guardian of the right to administer death benefits in favour of a minor beneficiary. Therefore, the note will discuss four specific determinations and thereafter comment about the criteria to be used by practitioners. The note argues that these determinations should be welcomed because of their progressive interpretation of the Pension Funds Act and for setting an important precedent for pension fund practitioners and boards. In each case, the Pension Funds Adjudicator found a violation of section 37C. The note also criticises the remedy granted in two of the determinations, namely Moralo v Holcim South African Provident Fund, and Mafe v Barloworld (SA) Retirement Fund Respondent, and argues that the Pension Funds Adjudicator’s ruling on these matters was arbitrary and capricious because it disregarded its own precedent in Lebepe v Premier Foods Provident Fund & Others. We therefore submit that the Pension Funds Adjudicator should have ordered the boards in Moralo v

Holcim South African Provident Fund, and Mafe v Barloworld (SA) Retirement Fund Respondent to pay all of the benefits directly to the complainants and guardians in those determinations.
Religious Freedom and Equality as Celebration of Difference: A Significant Development in Recent South African Constitutional Case-Law
Authors: Du Plessis Lourens
Published: June 2017

This contribution focuses on the way in which the South African Constitutional Court has, since 1997, been dealing with the (seemingly) eccentric claims of (assumedly) idiosyncratic 'religious Others'. Developments in this regard have, for the time being at least, culminated in the Constitutional Court's landmark judgment in MEC for Education: KwaZulu Natal v Pillay 2008 (2) BCLR 99 (CC), 2008 (1) SA 474 (CC)(hereafter Pillay).

 

Constitutional Court judgments since 1997 manifesting the adjudication of such unconventional claims are assessed, eventually getting to Pillay as benchmark. This remarkable judgment, dealing with a deceptively mundane issue, has played a considerable role in fleshing out a jurisprudence of difference, putting an adherent of a vulnerable, minority religion in the right. This is not just a high point in the adjudication of constitutional entitlements of the religious (and cultural) Other in South Africa, but also a significant contribution to the growth of a jurisprudence sensitive to the predicaments and constitutional entitlements of unconventional, 'non-mainstream' claimants of religious (and cultural) rights.

 

Finally Pillay illustrates that the constitutional guarantee of the right to freedom of religion, conscience, belief and opinion (entrenched in section 15(1) of the Constitution of Republic of South Africa 1996) can be crucially dependent upon due effect being given to the proscription of unfair discrimination on the grounds of religion, conscience, belief and opinion elsewhere (namely in section 9(3)) of the Constitution.
Cultural Practices and HIV in South Africa: A Legal Perspective
Authors: Mswela Maureen
Published: June 2017

South Africa has not escaped the rising prevalence and severe impact of HIV/AIDS in relation to women. From an economic and social vantage point, the HIV/AIDS epidemic effects women the hardest, with underprivileged black women the most susceptible to the virus. The theoretical framework of this paper focuses on the intersection between HIV/AIDS, gender inequality and gender violence, and more specifically on certain cultural practices and customs that contribute towards and exacerbate women’s subordination and inequality, which in turn increase women’s exposure to HIV infection. Relevant to this focus is inevitably an analysis of the perceived threats to specific fundamental human rights as a result of some of the entrenched practices that continue to reinforce women’s subordinate position in society, aggravated by the high incidence of gender violence.
How Explicit Listening Strategy Instruction Affects Listening Comprehension of Different Learners
Authors: Zarrabi Fatemeh
Published: June 2017

Listening has been a growing interest of EFL/ESL researchers and teachers in the last 50 years because the majority of learners view listening as one of the most problematic skills. Recently, there have been discussions on teaching listening with the emphasis on strategy instruction for better achievement in listening comprehension. Hence, the researcher designed this quantitative study to help learners overcome their problem. The aim of this experimental research is to investigate whether explicit instruction of listening strategies s listening skill of different learner types. The study was conducted in an English language academy in Iran with 135 high-Intermediate EFL participants for 10 sessions. A pre-/post-test design was selected for data collection. The results revealed that all learners showed a higher mean score in the post-test than the pre-test but with a slight difference in improvement of listening comprehension of different learner types.
The Impact of Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol Model on Student Teachers’ Teaching Skills and Self-efficacy
Authors: Koura Aly A. , Zahran Faten A.
Published: June 2017

The main purpose of this study was to determine the impact of sheltered instruction observation protocol on student teachers’ teaching skills and self-efficacy. Questions formulated to achieve the purpose of the study focused on. (1) Determining the teaching skills necessary for the EFL student teachers. (2) Finding out differences in both EFL student teachers’ teaching performance observation checklist experimental and control group. (3) Finding out differences in both EFL student teachers’ self-efficacy scale of experimental and control group. Twenty two EFL student teachers constituted the sample for this study and two instruments-designed by the researchers- were used for data collection. Results indicated that students of experimental group outperformed their counterparts of control group in EFL teaching performance. The effect of sheltered instruction observation protocol model on student teachers teaching skills and self-efficacy was profound and significant. Sheltered instruction observation protocol model was very motivating for student teachers and gave them opportunities to make decisions and be creative.
An Analysis Report of College English Classroom Teaching in the Grading Model
Authors: Peng Liu , Wu Chunrong , Tan Xianjun
Published: June 2017

Based on data collected from Grade 2015 and Grade 2016, the present article mainly analyzes current situations of the grading model being implemented in a west provincial university. As frontline teachers, we cannot participate in the decision of which model to use, but can try our best to conduct frequent reflection and make necessary changes in classroom teaching for the good of college students’ achievements in English course. Due mostly to the limitations of one teacher’s first-hand experience, the research seems hard to hold water, and more are expected to participate in this topic. Only by means of active exploration and generous contributions from all teachers and educators concerned, will China College English be improved and productive in developing all-around talents needed for the realization of Chinese dreams.
Nutzerzentrierte Entwicklung mechatronischer Systeme
Authors: Berg Julia , Richter Christoph , Spiegelberger Bernd , Reinhart Gunther
Published: June 2017

Durch aktuelle Trends im Kontext der Digitalisierung und Industrie 4.0 wird die Bedienung mechatronischer Systeme zunehmend komplexer. Um dieser Herausforderung zu begegnen, bedarf es gebrauchstauglicher Systeme, die der Mensch unproblematisch beherrschen kann. Dies lässt sich insbesondere erreichen, wenn bei der Entwicklung von mechatronischen Systemen die Rolle des Bedieners kontinuierlich berücksichtigt wird. Zu diesem Zweck wurde von einem interdisziplinären Konsortium im Rahmen des Forschungsprojektes PEBeMA ein Referenzmodell für die nutzerzentrierte Entwicklung von mechatronischen Systemen erarbeitet. Im Beitrag werden neben dem grundsätzlichen Ablauf des Referenzmodells ebenso konkrete Aktionen beschrieben, die innerhalb der Entwicklung die Umsetzung gebrauchstauglicher Systeme unterstützen.
Mensch-Roboter-Arbeitabläufe methodisch entwickeln
Authors: Höcherl Johannes , Wrede Britta , Schlegl Thomas
Published: June 2017

In Mensch-Roboter-Arbeitszellen werden Teile eines Produktionsablaufs von einem Menschen, andere von einem kollaborativen Roboter und wieder andere kooperativ in einem gemeinsamen Arbeitsbereich durchgeführt. Bisher werden das Potenzial und der Mehrwert dieser Systeme noch nicht ausgeschöpft, weshalb ein systematischer Ansatz zur Definition der Arbeitsabläufe unerlässlich ist. Der Beitrag präsentiert einen iterativen, menschzentrierten Entwicklungszyklus für interaktive Mensch- Roboter-Anwendungen. Dieser Zyklus ergänzt die bisher verwendeten Ansätze der Automatisierung. Er beinhaltet Methoden der virtuellen Realität, um die Arbeitsabläufe iterativ evaluieren und dadurch den Entwicklungsprozess effizient gestalten zu können..