bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Performance Comparison for MPPT-PV Systems using Hybrid Pspice/Matlab Simulation
Authors: Aouchiche N. , Becherif M. , HadjArab A. , Aitcheikh M. S. , Ramadan H. S. , Cheknane A.
Published: November 2016

The power generated by solar photovoltaic (PV) module depends on the surrounding irradiance and temperature. This paper presents a hybrid Matlab™/Pspice™ simulation model of PV system, combined with Cadence software SLPS. The hybridization is performed in order to gain the advantages of both simulation tools such as accuracy and efficiency in both Pspice electronic circuit and Matlab™ mathematical modelling respectively. For this purpose, the PV panel and the boost converter are developed using Pspice™ and hybridized with the mathematical Matlab™ model of maximum power point method controller (MPPT) through SLPS. The main objective is verify the significance of using the proposed hybrid simulation techniques in comparing the different MPPT algorithms such as the perturbation and observation (P&O), incremental of conductance (Inc-Cond) and counter reaction voltage using pilot cell (Pilot-Cell). Various simulations are performed under different atmospheric conditions in order to evaluate the dynamic behaviour for the system under study in terms of stability, efficiency and rapidity.
ICT in Technical Subjects
Authors: Hrbáček Jiří , Kučera Martin , Hodis Zdeněk , Dosedla Martin
Published: November 2016

ICT have currently spread almost into all areas of human interests. These technologies accompany us during our rest and entertainment and enable fast and easy communication across vast distances. Moreover, they are used in education and science and control systems around us allowing easier design and construction of these systems. However, they cannot be taken as the only one perfect and best technology. Our research and experience in education of technical subjects shows that they cannot replace the work with real systems and models. In fact, no simulation or animation, even the most perfect one, can fully replace reality. Nevertheless, reality properly completed with animations or simulations offers many possibilities that were previously unthinkable. It is very important in education to show proper interdisciplinary relationships which are the true image of the real world. Also, it is essential for pupils and students to acquaint themselves with the practical problems from their practice. They have accustomed to computer design and project and assembly documentation and they understand technical documentation. Further, they have realized that these are direct images of real systems and they have learned to create and use them. At our department, we have focused on those issues. Students profit from acquired knowledge and skills in one subject that can be used in other subjects. This contribution aims to summarize up to now experience and show some practical results of research that have been conducted.
Quality of Higher Education and Structure of ICT Competence of Teachers in Ukrainian High Schools
Authors: Morze Nataliia , Kocharian Artur , Smyrnova-Trybulska Eugenia
Published: November 2016

This article examines ways of improving the quality of higher education in Ukraine in context of European quality standards for University educational space. The European standards and guidelines are considered in relation to internal quality assurance. The paper describes interdependence between the education quality of the University and the ICT competence’s level of its educators. It presents the indicators to achieve internal quality standards in educational process. There are results from the questionnaire of the Borys Grinchenko Kyiv University’s educators about dependence between the level of educators’ ICT competency formation and the quality of educational services. We describe the model of ICT competence corporate standards for the educators developed in the Borys Grinchenko Kyiv University. There are also presented the indicators and tools to measure the level of educators’ formation in the corporate standards.
Expert Systems and Adaptive Procedures of the Computer Educational System Adept
Authors: Krišová Zdeňka , Pokorný Miroslav
Published: November 2016

Current pedagogical research has striven to create an adaptive computer educational system which would come closest to each student’s needs and skills, and would ensure the quickest and the most effective way of acquiring the necessary knowledge in the field concerned. Modern informational technologies are fundamental which make use of unconventional methods of artificial intelligence to mechanically and abstractedly formalize mental models of experienced educators, which leads to mechanical representation of their sophisticated teaching methods and procedures. The structure of the adaptive educational system includes fuzzy expert modules which formalize mental decision-making functions of an experienced educator. Two adaptive loops execute the processes of the adjustment of study materials according to the continuous study results shown and of learning the system according to the information about the student’s modified learning procedure.
Monitoring and Prediction of Precipitable Water Vapor using GPS data in Turkey
Authors: Ansari Kutubuddin , Althuwaynee Omar F. , Corumluoglu Ozsen
Published: November 2016

Although Global Positioning System (GPS) primarily provide accurate estimates of position, velocity and time of the receiver, as the signals pass through the atmoshphere carrying its signatures, thus offers opportunities for atmoshpheric applications. Precipitable water vapor (PWV) is a vital component of the atmosphere and significantly influences atmospheric processes like rainfall and atmospheric temperature. The developing networks of continuously operating GPS can be used to efficiently estimate PWV. The Turkish Permanent GPS Network (TPGN) is employed to monitor PWV information in Turkey. This work primarily aims to derive long-term data of PWV by using atmospheric path delays observed through continuously operating TPGN from November 2014 to October 2015. A least square mathematical approach was then applied to establish the relation of the observed PWV to rainfall and temperature. The modeled PWV was correlated with PWV estimated from GPS data, with an average correlation of 67.10 %–88.60 %. The estimated root mean square error (RMSE) varied from 2.840 to 6.380, with an average of 4.697. Finally, data of TPGN, rainfall, and temperature were obtained for less than 2 months (November 2015 to December 2015) and assessed to validate the mathematical model. This study provides a basis for determining PWV by using rainfall and temperature data.
Layered Stimulus Response Training versus Combined Action Observation and Imagery: Effects on Golf Putting Performance and Imagery Ability Characteristics
Authors: Marshall Ben , Wright David J.
Published: November 2016

This experiment compared the effectiveness of layered stimulus response training (LSRT) and combined action observation and motor imagery (AOMI) for improving golf putting performance and imagery ability characteristics. Twenty-four novice golfers were randomly assigned to LSRT, AOMI or reading (control) intervention groups (n=8), that all incorporated physical practice. Putting performance and imagery ability characteristics were measured at pre-test (day 1), post-test (day 5) and retention test (day 8). Putting performance improved in the LSRT group but not in the AOMI or control groups. Whilst there was no change in general movement imagery ability across the experiment, task-specific imagery ability did improve in both the LSRT and AOMI groups.
Intrauterine Diabetic Environment Confers Risks for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Obesity in the Offspring, in Addition to Genetic Susceptibility
Authors: Dabelea Dana , Pettitt David J.
Published: November 2016

Numerous studies have reported that offspring whose mothers had type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) are more likely to develop type 2 DM, impaired glucose tolerance, and obesity at an early age than offspring whose fathers had DM. Exposure to the diabetic intrauterine environment has been shown to be an important risk factor for all these conditions. To what extent transmission of type 2 DM from mother to offspring is the effect of genetic inheritance and to what extent it is the long-term consequence of exposure to maternal hyperglycemia is still uncertain. There are, of course, interactions between the diabetic intrauterine environment and genetics. Several data in experimental animals as well as in humans suggest, however, that exposure of the fetus to the mother’s DM confers a risk for type 2 DM and obesity that is above any genetically transmitted susceptibility. In the Pima Indian population much of the increase in childhood type 2 DM can be attributed to the diabetic intrauterine environment. This suggests that intensive glucose control during pregnancy might have extended beneficial effects, contributing to a decrease in the prevalence of childhood type 2 DM.
Asymmetric Crying Facies and Congenital Hypothyroidism: Report of Two Patients
Authors: Kurtoğlu Selim , Çaksen Hüseyin , Per Hüseyin , Narin Nazmi , Üzüm Kazım
Published: November 2016

A congenital asymmetric crying facies (ACF) is caused by congenital hypoplasia or agenesis of the depressor anguli oris muscle. Associations of this facial defect with major congenital anomalies have been reported, most commonly in the cardiovascular system and less frequently involving the genitourinary, musculoskeletal, cervicofacial, respiratory, and rarely, the endocrine system. It is also well known that congenital hypothyroidism may be associated with other congenital malformations, especially with cardiac defects. Two newborn infants who had ACF associated with congenital heart defect and congenital hypothyroidism are described. To the best of our knowledge the association of ACF and congenital hypothyroidism has not previously been published.
Turner’s Syndrome
Authors: Guarneri Maria Pia , Abusrewil S.A.S. , Bernasconi S. , Bona G. , Cavallo L. , Cicognani A. , Di Battista E. , Salvatoni A.
Published: November 2016

Turner syndrome (TS) is the most common sex-chromosome abnormality in females. Short stature and hypogonadism are the classical clinical findings. The spontaneous final height (FH) ranges between 139 and 147 cm, representing a growth deficit of about 20 cm with respect to the unaffected population. GH therapy improves FH and should be started during childhood at a high dose of about 1 IU/kg/week (range 0.6-2 IU/kg/week). Some authors advocate combined therapy with an anabolic steroid at various doses (e.g. oxandrolone 0.05-0.1 mg/kg/day). This treatment results in a significantly increased FH, .a large proportion of treated girls reaching a FH of more than 150 cm. Gonadal function is compromised during adolescence in about 80% of girls with TS, whilst in about 20% pubertal development occurs spontaneously. Oestrogen therapy should be started at the age of 13-14 years in hypogonadic patients; early onset of treatment (before 12 years) seems to compromise FH. Other concerns in these patients are fertility and osteopenia.
Optimal Therapy of Pubertal Disorders in Precocious/Early Puberty
Authors: Tatò L. , Savage M.O. , Antoniazzi F. , Buzi F. , Di Maio S. , Oostdijk W. , Pasquino A.M. , Raiola G. , Saenger P. , Tonini G. , Voorhoeve P.G.
Published: November 2016

GnRHa have been used in the treatment of central precocious puberty (CPP) for a decade and some final results of this therapy are now available. Treatment preserves height potential in younger patients and a complete recovery of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis occurs at the end of treatment. However, some aspects of the management of CPP are still debated. Probably the age limits between normal and precocious puberty have to be lowered, and new diagnostic tools will modify and simplify diagnostic criteria. The possibility of progression of premature thelarche into precocious puberty, the pathogenesis of organic and idiopathic precocious puberty, the criteria for decision to treat and to stop treatment and the utility of an association with GH treatment will be better understood in the future. Follow-up of patients after stopping therapy includes frequency and characteristics of menses, the possible higher incidence of polycystic ovary-like syndrome and the correct achievement of a normal peak bone mass and body composition. In this review we discuss some of these points, with particular attention to precocious puberty in girls.
When terminology matters: The imperative as a comparative concept
Authors: Jary Mark , Kissine Mikhail
Published: November 2016

The imperative should be thought of as a comparative concept, defined as a sentence type whose only prototypical function is the performance of the whole range of directive speech acts. Furthermore, for a non-second-person form to count as an imperative it must be homogeneous with the second-person form, thereby allowing true imperative paradigms to be distinguished from those that recruit alternative structures. This definition of the imperative sentence type allows more accurate crosslinguistic analysis of imperative paradigms, and provides principled grounds for distinguishing between imperative and so-called “hortative” and “jussive” forms. It also helps to clarify the irrealis – or better –
“More about me” – Self-Presentation and
Narrative Strategies in Caribbean Online
Dating Ads
Authors: Mühleisen Susanne
Published: November 2016

This paper focuses on self-presentation in dating ads and the strategies advertisers employ
to construct their persona to attract and initiate responses from the desired other. Dating ads have
experienced considerable structural changes in their transition from print media to online forms. The
use of diverse media and interaction forms as well as extended space has resulted in a diversification of
possibilities in online partner search in which advertisers use fragmented stories, past and anticipated
narratives in order to construct a basic personal narrative. It is argued here that the act of posting the
dating ads also functions as part of the advertisers’ life story with the projected end of finding romance
or fulfilling other relational goals. The analysis of examples from a corpus of Caribbean dating ads also
shows how advertisers make use of particular cultural references, lexical items and spelling adaptations
in their creation of an authentic Caribbean persona and as a means to establish common ground with a
potential partner.
Box-Behnken experimental design for the production of precipitated calcium carbonate
Authors: Kirboga Semra , Öner Mualla , Dogan Ozlem
Published: November 2016

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) was synthesized by means of ultrasonic process in the presence of the water-soluble polymer carboxymethyl inulin (CMI). Synthesized CaCO3 crystals were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and BET (Brunauer, Emmett and Teller) isotherm. Applying Box-Behnken experimental design, the effects of the amplitude of sonicator (Amp), biopolymer concentration (BC) and the application time of ultrasound (AT) on the preparation of CaCO3 with respect to specific surface area (SSA) of final product was investigated. The experimental design was studied at three levels. The range of the amplitude of sonicator, polymer concentration and the application time of ultrasound were 25%–50%, 0.25–0.75 g/L and 1–5 min, respectively. The model equation representing specific surface area (SSA) of calcium carbonate was expressed as functions of three operating parameters namely the application time of the ultrasound, the amplitude of sonicator and polymer concentration. The results showed that the application time of ultrasound was the most significant variable that influenced the surface area of the crystals among three variables and the experimental results were in good agreement with those predicted by the proposed regression model. The highest value of specific surface area was obtained at the maximum application time of ultrasound.
Rigid Foam Extrusion of Polyvinylchloride – Effects of Blowing Agent and Plasticizer
Authors: Kim Kwang Ung , Park Tae Suk , Kim Byoung Chul
Published: November 2016

The effects of blowing agent and plasticizer on foaming characteristics of polyvinylchloride (PVC) were investigated, using a short cylindrical die. Of two blowing agents tested, azodicarbonamide (ADCA) exhibited a wider leverage of volumetric flow rate for processability while sodium bicarbonate (SBC) showed a wider temperature leverage. The mixed use of two blowing agents gave a better control for extrudate density, product color and processability. Of three nucleating agents, two acidic ones, citric acid and boric acid, enhanced uniformity of cells and efficiency of the blowing agents slightly. It was observed that dioctyl phthalate (DOP), used as plasticizer, tended to migrate toward the surface of the die wall, giving rise to smooth surface layer of the extruded profile foam. A possibility exists to produce profile foams having smooth skin, by controlling the type of blowing agent and processing conditions.
Dynamic Simulation and Graphics for the Injection Molding of Three-Dimensional Thin Parts
Authors: Wang V.W. , Hieber C.A. , Wang K.K.
Published: November 2016

A numerical formulation is presented for simulating the injection-molding filling of thin cavities, together with the delivery system, in three dimensions. The modelling is based on generalized Hele-Shaw flow for an inelastic, non-Newtonian fluid under non-isothermal conditions, which has been previously shown to be satisfactory for simulating the polymer melt flow in the cavities. A hybrid numerical scheme is employed in which the injection-molded part is described by two-dimensional triangular elements, provided that the cavity thickness is relatively thin, and the gapwise and time derivatives are expressed in terms of finite differences. The elements are flat, but can have any orientation in 3-D space to approximate the surfaces of the molded part.

A triangular element is further divided into three sub-areas by joining the centroid of the element to the mid-point of its three edges. The control volume associated with any vertex node is then defined as the sum of all such sub-areas containing that node multiplied by each respective thickness. The numerical calculation of the flow field (or the pressure field) is based on the conservation of mass in each control volume which, at any given instant, can be either empty, partially filled, or totally filled with polymer melt. The melt-front location is defined by the partially filled control volumes which are allowed to advance in the calculation such that one partially filled control volume gets filled during each properly chosen time step with all of its adjacent empty control volumes then becoming new melt-front control volumes. The pressure and temperature are calculated at each time step, with the resulting pressure field determining the flow direction which, in turn, determines which partially-filled control volume should get filled during the following time step.

One-dimensional flow segments, such as circular or non-circular tubes, can also be employed to represent the delivery system. This one-dimensional flow is coupled with the cavity filling in order to form a complete simulation of the mold filling. Comparisons with experiment have been made for a rectangular cavity with three inserts. The results show good agreement in terms of pressure traces and weldline locations. Another complex 3-D injection molded part has also been modelled to demonstrate the capability of the analysis.
A Study of the Interactions Between Oligoamidephosphate (OAPh) and Curatives in a Sulphenamide-Accelerated Sulphur Vulcanizing System
Authors: Vladkova Todorka G. , Alaminov Alexander Chr. , Pankova Milka G.
Published: November 2016

The possible interactions between oligoamidephosphate (OAPli) and the curatives of a sulphenamide-accelerated sulphur vulcanizing system were studied by differential scanning calorimetry, IR-spectroscopy, and X-ray analysis. The interactions in double mixtures were between OAPh and zinc oxide (ZnO) and OAPh and sulphur. The OAPh/ZnO interaction that starts at room temperature seems to be the key for understanding the peculiarities of sulphenamide-accelerated sulphur vulcanization in the presence of OAPh.
Radioiodination of cyclin dependent kinase inhibitor Olomoucine loaded Fe@Au nanoparticle and evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy on cancerous cells
Authors: Takan Gokhan , Guldu Ozge Kozgus , Medine Emin Ilker
Published: November 2016

Magnetic nanoparticles have promising biomedical applications such as drug delivery, novel therapeutics and diagnostic imaging. Magnetic drug delivery combination works on the delivery of magnetic nanoparticles loaded with drug to the target tissue by means of an external magnetic field. Gold coated iron oxide (Fe@Au) nanoparticles can provide useful surface chemistry and biological reactivity. Covalent conjugation to the Fe@Au nanoparticles through cleavable linkages can be used to deliver drugs to tumor cells, then the drug can be released by an external. In this paper, purine based cyclin dependent kinases (CDKs) inhibitor Olomoucine (Olo) [2-(Hydroxyethylamino)-6-benzylamino-9-methylpurine] was loaded on gold coated iron oxide (Fe@Au) nanoparticles and radiolabeled with 131I to combine magnetic targeted drug delivery and radiotherapy. Fe@Au nanoparticles were synthesized by microemulsion method. The characterization of nanoparticles was examined by TEM, VSM and XRD. Amine activation was utilized by cysteamine hydrochloride and then CDI was used for conjugation of Olomoucine. Antiproliferative effect and cytotoxicity of Olomoucine loaded Fe@Au nanoparticles (Fe@Au-Olo) were investigated on MCF7 and A549 cell lines. Proliferation rate was decreased while uptake of Fe@Au-Olo on both cell lines was high in comparison with Olomoucine. Also, enhanced incorporation ratio was observed under external magnetic field.
Toxicity of Polyacrylamide and Acrylamide Monome
Authors: King Diana J. , Noss Richard R.
Published: November 2016

The purpose of this paper is to present information gathered regarding, in general, the physical characteristics, and, in particular, the possible toxic nature of polyacrilamides. A short discussion of the properties and toxicity of the acrylamide monomer is also included.

The United States government, specifically the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency, already regulates several uses of polyacrylamide; criteria and standards have been established based on numerous toxicological studies of both polyacrylamide and acrylamide. These studies are reviewed and summarized.

The regulations generally restrict both the amount of residual acrylamide monomer in the polyacrylamide and the amount of polymer that may be used in the specified application. By imposing this type of restriction, a maximum limit on the amount of acrylamide in contact with food or drinking water can be indirectly achieved.
Pollutant Toxicity to Aquatic Animals - Methods of Study and Their Applications
Authors: Abel P. D.
Published: November 2016

The toxicity of water pollutants to aquatic animals is reviewed, with particular emphasis on methods for measuring lethal toxicity, factors influencing toxicity, the measurement of chronic and sublethal toxicity, and the role of toxicological data in formulating water quality standards. Methods for measuring lethal toxicity are well established and have been applied to a wide range of fish and invertebrate species. Their applications and limitations are discussed. The measurement of sublethal toxicity employs very diverse techniques ranging from biochemical to the use of experimental ecosystems. Profitable techniques are those which possess one or more of the characteristics: sensitivity, specificity, ecological relevance. A large data base now exists on the toxicity of pollutants to aquatic species, singly and in combination, and on the effects of environmental conditions, and interspecific and intraspecific biotic factors. Toxicological data and information from field studies are complementary, and their use in formulating water quality standards for the preservation of aquatic life is discussed.
A meta-theoretical approach to the history and theory of semiotics
Authors: Lagopoulos Alexandros Ph.
Published: November 2016

The object of this paper is the domain of semiotic theories, from “traditional” semiotics to poststructuralism and postmodernism, excluding “semiotizing” approaches such as phenomenology or cultural studies. Thus, it is metatheoretical. It is based on two matrices. The first maps semiotic theories on the basis of the continuity or discontinuity between them. The second displays the logical categories of the relationship between semiotics and Marxism, which has historically been an important influence on the field. The paper presents the views of the main authors of the domain in terms of these two matrices. Some of the conclusions are: (a) the irreconcilability between Saussurean and Peircean semiotics; (b) the greater historical development of the former in comparison to the latter; (c) the different orientation between Central and Eastern European semiotics on the one hand and French semiotics on the other; (d) the strong influence of Saussure and Levi-Straussian structuralism on poststructuralism; (e) the increase of the influence of Marxism from structuralism to poststructuralism; and (f) the transformation from poststructuralism to North American postmodernism.

The paper closes with some thoughts about the present status of the main semiotic currents and a proposal for a fertile future orientation for semiotics.
Rumänische Vermittlung in zwischenslawischen Wortentlehnungen (Zur Geschichte einiger polnischer Wöter südslawischer Herkunft)
Authors: Feleszko Kazimierz
Published: November 2016

Резюме

Дакорумыпекан языковая территория на двух своих полюсах, на северном и южном, сталкивается со славянскими языками. Румынско-болгарский языковой контакт на юге был особенно сильным. Древность и прочность славянских заимствований на отой терри­тории припили к тому, что заимствованные славянские слова уже как румынизмм прони­кали в северно-славянские языки и диалекты, главным образом посредством украинского языка. Этим путем вошли они и в польские диалекты карнатского района.

ʙ статье анализируются слова hyrtyp, kila/kiela, klaka, lanc/lаnс, maslina, pomana, saraku, stупа, droźdźe, которые посредством румынского языка попали н региональный польский язык на Буконине и Восточных Карпатах ʙ 18-20 веках.
Förderung und Erforschung des Sorbischen in der Deutschen Demokratischen Republik
Authors: Lötzsch Ronald
Published: November 2016

This paper deals with the politics of German states towards the Sorbs and their language. While before 1945, especially during the Nazi regime, German authorities would oppress and germanize ethnic and linguistic minorities, in the GDR the Sorbs are enjoying equal rights with the German citizens. The Sorbian language is not only language or object of instruction in schools of Lusatia, but also object of exploration in linguistic institutes, above all, at the Academy of Sciences of the GDR.
Um Gleichheit und Unabhängigkeit der Sprache
Authors: Neumann Werner
Published: November 2016

The following paper deals with the interdependencies between the views of language propagated by German authors in the era of Napoleon wars and the contemporary language situation. It is argued that at that time wore discussed similar problems as involved also in the principles of the language policy of the French Revolution, especially the regional extension and the social validity of the national literary language. Therefore the scientific situation in Germany at that time was not only characterized by the historical and comparative researches which came up simultaneously and were prefaced by traditional historiography of linguistics.
Towards a comprehensive time – aspect – model for Bengali
Authors: Baganz Lutz
Published: November 2016

Unterschiedlichste natürliche Sprachen liefern immer wieder Indizien dafür, daß die Sprecher dieser Sprachen als Wesen einer dreidimensionalen Welt die Zeit als eine weitere vierte Dimension offenbar nur zweidimensional begreifen können. Die Zeitachse scheint daher am ehesten geeignet, sowohl in der Forschung als auch in der Lehre eine Modellierung dieses Phänomens vorzunehmen. Dies um so mehr, als es am konkreten Beispiel des Bengali, einer neuindoarischen Aspekt-Sprache, dadurch möglich wird, Temporalität mit Aspektualität anschaulich zu verbinden. Letztendliches Ziel ist, in das Wesen der einzelnen Tempus-Modus-Formen dieser Sprache vorzudringen, um ausgehend von der jeweiligen Hauptfunktion auch die entsprechenden Nebenfunktionen im Gesamtrahmen des temporalen Feldes besser zu verstehen. Der Artikel gibt prinzipielle Überlegungen wieder, die der Autor bei der Abfassung einer Grammatik des Bengali zur Anwendung bringen will.
Theoretische und praktische Probleme einer arabischen Synonymik für deutschsprachige Wörterbuchbenutzer
Authors: Schulz Eckehard
Published: November 2016

A dictionary of Synonyms in Modern Standard Arabic for German speaking users is still one of the desiderata despite the importance of Synonyms for teaching Arabic and translation. Compiling such a dictionary needs a solid theoretical foundation which has to take into consideration that Modern Arabic is spoken in the Arab countries in numerous regional dialects and sociolects which are in permanent interaction with Modern Standard Arabic.
Mystical Morality and Heroic Transcendence: Eleusinian Orphism and Political Ethics in Euripides’ Iphigenia at Aulis
Authors: Markantonatos Andreas
Published: November 2016

In this paper I shall argue that in Iphigenia at Aulis Euripides seeks to lay bare the utter incoherence of the idea that moral laws should remain silent and idle during wartime by deploying powerful mystical signals of great ethical moment, especially Eleusinian and Orphic major key signatures and codes. In this way, he trains the Athenian audience to engage more fully in the intricate process of plotting and anticipating the heroically induced denouement, while at the same time repeatedly asserting the value of political morality, and its refusal, as motive forces in the configuration of power relationships in democratic Athens in particular and in war-torn Greece in general.
“To be real honest, I’m just like you”: analyzing the discourse of personalization in online sermons
Authors: Bryan Clint , Albakry Mohammed
Published: November 2016

This paper investigates the discourse of LifeChurch.tv, an American evangelical megachurch – headed by the influential pastor Craig Groeschel – whose sermons are accessed by thousands of followers on the Internet. The study is based on the transcripts of a five-year period of online preaching (177 sermons). The goal was to apply the framework of critical discourse analysis (CDA) to digital sermons, particularly focusing on examining the elements of personalization in this relatively new form of “net” evangelism. Groeschel’s “hyper-personalized” style of preaching, we argue, utilizes strategies intended to lessen any perceived barriers between the speaker and his virtual congregation. The study discusses the implications for the commodification and mediatization of religion in the digital age.
Fitness Profiles of Elite Adolescent Irish Rugby Union Players
Authors: Wood Daniel J. , Coughlan Garrett. F. , Delahunt Eamonn
Published: November 2016

Wood, DJ, Coughlan, GF, and Delahunt, E. Fitness profiles of elite adolescent Irish rugby union players. J Strength Cond Res 32(1): 105–112, 2018—Rugby unions throughout the world are implementing player development models to prepare young players to meet the demands of professional rugby union. An example of this is the Irish Rugby Football Union Long Term Player Development model. The purpose of this study was to provide normative data relating to the physical fitness of elite adolescent Irish rugby union players and determine the differences in the physical capacities between players in the forward and back units as well as to provide descriptive data for the position categorizations within these units for this unique population. Players in the forward unit were significantly taller and heavier than players in the back unit (1.85 ± 0.06 m and 96.88 ± 9.00 kg vs. 1.79 ± 0.05 m and 81.97 ± 7.09 kg, respectively). Forwards (38.37 ± 4.00 cm) had a significantly lower countermovement jump height than backs (41.31 ± 4.44 cm). Forwards had a significantly lower triple hop for the distance score on their right (5.78 ± 0.52 m) and left (5.78 ± 0.55 m) legs compared with backs (6.26 ± 0.42 m and 6.33 ± 0.45 m, respectively). Forwards (1.85 ± 0.07 seconds) had a significantly higher 10-m sprint time than backs (1.77 ± 0.06 seconds). Furthermore, forwards (675.90 ± 82.46 m) had a significantly lower 150-m shuttle test score than backs (711.71 ± 27.46 m). The results of this study provide normative data for players who currently possess underage international potential and could be used by strength and conditioning coaches to guide the selection of players through talent identification processes.
Acute Effects of Plyometric and Resistance Training on Running Economy in Trained Runners
Authors: Marcello Richard T. , Greer Beau K. , Greer Anna E.
Published: November 2016

Marcello, RT, Greer, BK, and Greer, AE. Acute effects of plyometric and resistance training on running economy in trained runners. J Strength Cond Res 31(9): 2432–2437, 2017—Results regarding the acute effects of plyometrics and resistance training (PRT) on running economy (RE) are conflicting. Eight male collegiate distance runners (21 ± 1 years, 62.5 ± 7.8 ml·kg−1·min−1 V̇o
2 peak) completed V̇o
2 peak and 1 repetition maximum (1RM) testing. Seven days later, subjects completed a 12 minutes RE test at 60 and 80% V̇o
2 peak, followed by a PRT protocol or a rested condition of equal duration (CON). The PRT protocol consisted of 3 sets of 5 repetitions at 85% 1RM for barbell squats, Romanian deadlifts, and barbell lunges; the same volume was used for resisted lateral lunges, box jumps, and depth jumps. Subjects completed another RE test immediately after the treatments and 24 hours later. Subjects followed an identical protocol 6 days later with condition assignment reversed. Running economy was determined by both relative V̇o
2 (ml·kg−1·min−1) and energy expenditure (EE) (kcal·min−1). There was a significant (p ≤ 0.05) between-trial increase in V̇o
2 (37.1 ± 4.2 ml·kg−1·min−1 PRT vs. 35.5 ± 3.9 ml·kg−1·min−1 CON) and EE (11.4 ± 1.3 kcal·min−1 PRT vs. 11.0 ± 1.4 kcal·min−1 CON) immediately after PRT at 60% V̇o
2 peak, but no significant changes were observed at 80% V̇o
2 peak. Respiratory exchange ratio was significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced 24 hours after PRT (0.93 ± 0.0) as compared to the CON trial (0.96 ± 0.0) at 80% V̇o
2 peak. Results indicate that high-intensity PRT may acutely impair RE in aerobically trained individuals at a moderate running intensity, but that the attenuation lasts less than 24 hours in duration.
Nitric Oxide Modulates HCN Channels in Magnocellular Neurons of the Supraoptic Nucleus of Rats by an S-Nitrosylation-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Pires da Silva Melina , de Almeida Moraes Davi José , Mecawi André de Souza , Rodrigues José Antunes , Varanda Wamberto Antonio
Published: November 2016

The control of the excitability in magnocellular neurosecretory cells (MNCs) of the supraoptic nucleus has been attributed mainly to synaptic inputs from circunventricular organs. However, nitric oxide (NO), a gaseous messenger produced in this nucleus during isotonic and short-term hypertonic conditions, is an example of a modulator that can act directly on MNCs to modulate their firing rate. NO inhibits the electrical excitability of MNCs, leading to a decrease in the release of vasopressin and oxytocin. Although the effects of NO on MNCs are well established, the mechanism by which this gas produces its effect is, so far, unknown. Because NO acts independently of synaptic inputs, we hypothesized that ion channels present in MNCs are the targets of NO. To investigate this hypothesis, we used the patch-clamp techniquein vitroandin situto measure currents carried by hyperpolarization-activated and nucleotide-gated cation (HCN) channels and establish their role in determining the electrical excitability of MNCs in rats. Our results show that blockade of HCN channels by ZD7288 decreases MNC firing rate with significant consequences on the release of OT and VP, measured by radioimmunoassay. NO induced a significant reduction in HCN currents by binding to cysteine residues and forming S-nitrosothiol complexes. These findings shed new light on the mechanisms that control the electrical excitability of MNCs via the nitrergic system and strengthen the importance of HCN channels in the control of hydroelectrolyte homeostasis.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTCells in our organism live in a liquid environment whose composition and osmolality are maintained within tight limits. Magnocellular neurons (MNCs) of the supra optic nucleus can sense osmolality and control the synthesis and secretion of vasopressin (VP) and oxytocin (OT) by the neurohypophysis. OT and VP act on the kidneys controlling the excretion of water and sodium to maintain homeostasis. Here we combined electrophysiology, molecular biology, and radioimmunoassay to show that the electrical activity of MNCs can be controlled by nitric oxide (NO), a gaseous messenger. NO reacts with cysteine residues (S-nitrosylation) on hyperpolarization-activated and nucleotide-gated cation channels decreasing the firing rate of MNCs and the consequent secretion of VP and OT.
Consistency of Border-Ownership Cells across Artificial Stimuli, Natural Stimuli, and Stimuli with Ambiguous Contours
Authors: Hesse Janis K. , Tsao Doris Y.
Published: November 2016

Segmentation and recognition of objects in a visual scene are two problems that are hard to solve separately from each other. When segmenting an ambiguous scene, it is helpful to already know the present objects and their shapes. However, for recognizing an object in clutter, one would like to consider its isolated segment alone to avoid confounds from features of other objects. Border-ownership cells (Zhou et al., 2000) appear to play an important role in segmentation, as they signal the side-of-figure of artificial stimuli. The present work explores the role of border-ownership cells in dorsal macaque visual areas V2 and V3 in the segmentation of natural object stimuli and locally ambiguous stimuli. We report two major results. First, compared with previous estimates, we found a smaller percentage of cells that were consistent across artificial stimuli used previously. Second, we found that the average response of those neurons that did respond consistently to the side-of-figure of artificial stimuli also consistently signaled, as a population, the side-of-figure for borders of single faces, occluding faces and, with higher latencies, even stimuli with illusory contours, such as Mooney faces and natural faces completely missing local edge information. In contrast, the local edge or the outlines of the face alone could not always evoke a significant border-ownership signal. Our results underscore that border ownership is coded by a population of cells, and indicate that these cells integrate a variety of cues, including low-level features and global object context, to compute the segmentation of the scene.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTTo distinguish different objects in a natural scene, the brain must segment the image into regions corresponding to objects. The so-called “border-ownership” cells appear to be dedicated to this task, as they signal for a given edge on which side the object is that owns it. Here, we report that individual border-ownership cells are unreliable when tested across a battery of artificial stimuli used previously but can signal border-ownership consistently as a population. We show that these border-ownership population signals are also suited for signaling border-ownership for natural objects and at longer latency, even for stimuli without local edge information. Our results suggest that border-ownership cells integrate both local, low-level and global, high-level cues to segment the scene.
Converging, Synergistic Actions of Multiple Stress Hormones Mediate Enduring Memory Impairments after Acute Simultaneous Stresses
Authors: Chen Yuncai , Molet Jenny , Lauterborn Julie C. , Trieu Brian H. , Bolton Jessica L. , Patterson Katelin P. , Gall Christine M. , Lynch Gary , Baram Tallie Z.
Published: November 2016

Stress influences memory, an adaptive process crucial for survival. During stress, hippocampal synapses are bathed in a mixture of stress-released molecules, yet it is unknown whether or how these interact to mediate the effects of stress on memory. Here, we demonstrate novel synergistic actions of corticosterone and corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) on synaptic physiology and dendritic spine structure that mediate the profound effects of acute concurrent stresses on memory. Spatial memory in mice was impaired enduringly after acute concurrent stresses resulting from loss of synaptic potentiation associated with disrupted structure of synapse-bearing dendritic spines. Combined application of the stress hormones corticosterone and CRH recapitulated the physiological and structural defects provoked by acute stresses. Mechanistically, corticosterone and CRH, via their cognate receptors, acted synergistically on the spine-actin regulator RhoA, promoting its deactivation and degradation, respectively, and destabilizing spines. Accordingly, blocking the receptors of both hormones, but not each alone, rescued memory. Therefore, the synergistic actions of corticosterone and CRH at hippocampal synapses underlie memory impairments after concurrent and perhaps also single, severe acute stresses, with potential implications to spatial memory dysfunction in, for example, posttraumatic stress disorder.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTStress influences memory, an adaptive process crucial for survival. During stress, adrenal corticosterone and hippocampal corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) permeate memory-forming hippocampal synapses, yet it is unknown whether (and how) these hormones interact to mediate effects of stress. Here, we demonstrate novel synergistic actions of corticosterone and CRH on hippocampal synaptic plasticity and spine structure that mediate the memory-disrupting effects of stress. Combined application of both hormones provoked synaptic function collapse and spine disruption. Mechanistically, corticosterone and CRH synergized at the spine-actin regulator RhoA, promoting its deactivation and degradation, respectively, and destabilizing spines. Notably, blocking both hormones, but not each alone, prevented the enduring memory problems after acute concurrent stresses. Therefore, synergistic actions of corticosterone and CRH underlie enduring memory impairments after concurrent acute stresses, which might be relevant to spatial memory deficits described in posttraumatic stress disorder.
Gonadotropin characterization, localization and expression in the European hake (Merluccius merluccius)
Authors: Candelma Michela , Fontaine Romain , Colella Sabrina , Santojanni Alberto , Weltzien Finn-Arne , Carnevali Oliana
Published: November 2016

In vertebrates, the regulation of gametogenesis is under the control of gonadotropins (Gth), follicle-stimulating hormone (Fsh) and luteinizing hormone (Lh). In fish, the physiological role of Gths is not fully understood, especially in species with asynchronous ovarian development. To elucidate the role of Gths in species with asynchronous ovary, we studied European hake (Merluccius merluccius) during the reproductive season. For this aim, we first cloned and sequenced both hormones. Then, we characterized their amino acid sequence and performed phylogenetic analyses to verify the relationship to their orthologues in other species. In addition, the quantification of gene expression during their natural reproductive season was analyzed in wild-caught female hake. Our results revealed that fshb peaked during the vitellogenic phase, remaining high until spawning. This is in contrast to the situation in species with synchronous ovary. lhb, on the other hand, peaked during maturation as it is also common in species with synchronous ovarian development. Finally, combining double-labeling fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) for Gth mRNAs with immunofluorescence for Lh protein, we evidenced the specific expression of fshb and lhb in different cells within the proximal pars distalis (PPD) of the pituitary. In addition to gonadotrope cells specific to expression of either fshb or lhb, some cells showed co-expression of both genes. This suggests either that gonadotropes with co-expression are not yet specified or they could have a plasticity that permits changes from one cell phenotype to another during certain life stages and in turn during different physiological states.
The Spike-and-Slab Lasso Generalized Linear Models for Prediction and Associated Genes Detection
Authors: Tang Zaixiang , Shen Yueping , Zhang Xinyan , Yi Nengjun
Published: November 2016

Large-scale “omics” data have been increasingly used as an important resource for prognostic prediction of diseases and detection of associated genes. However, there are considerable challenges in analyzing high-dimensional molecular data, including the large number of potential molecular predictors, limited number of samples, and small effect of each predictor. We propose new Bayesian hierarchical generalized linear models, called spike-and-slab lasso GLMs, for prognostic prediction and detection of associated genes using large-scale molecular data. The proposed model employs a spike-and-slab mixture double-exponential prior for coefficients that can induce weak shrinkage on large coefficients, and strong shrinkage on irrelevant coefficients. We have developed a fast and stable algorithm to fit large-scale hierarchal GLMs by incorporating expectation-maximization (EM) steps into the fast cyclic coordinate descent algorithm. The proposed approach integrates nice features of two popular methods, i.e., penalized lasso and Bayesian spike-and-slab variable selection. The performance of the proposed method is assessed via extensive simulation studies. The results show that the proposed approach can provide not only more accurate estimates of the parameters, but also better prediction. We demonstrate the proposed procedure on two cancer data sets: a well-known breast cancer data set consisting of 295 tumors, and expression data of 4919 genes; and the ovarian cancer data set from TCGA with 362 tumors, and expression data of 5336 genes. Our analyses show that the proposed procedure can generate powerful models for predicting outcomes and detecting associated genes. The methods have been implemented in a freely available R package BhGLM (http://www.ssg.uab.edu/bhglm/).
The Zero Tolerance Approach to Violence Against Women
Authors: Jennings Landon
Published: November 2016

This paper was written in term 3A for a Sociology course called criminology and criminal justice policy. The paper was to be a critical analysis of a topic of choice (explain their topic within the criminal justice system). Specifically, the requirements were as follows: explain a particular policy/issue, give some historical context of how the it came to be, who this particular point at issue has affected, and finally make recommendations to what could be done in the future.