bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hierarchisches Konzept zur Fahrdynamikregelung für Elektrofahrzeuge mit Einzelradantrieben
Authors: Schünemann Martin , Kasper Roland
Published: December 2017

Der Einsatz elektrischer Einzelradantriebe in Kraftfahrzeugen eröffnet auf Grund der Möglichkeit der schnellen und genauen
radindividuellen Stellung positiver und negativer Drehmomente neue Potenziale für die Fahrdynamikregelung. Hierdurch wird
eine Regelung des Reifenlängsschlupfes an jedem Rad mit hoher Dynamik und Genauigkeit sowie eine höhere Energieeffizienz
ermöglicht, die mit konventionellen Eingriffen des Bremssystems nicht umsetzbar ist. Damit eine darauf aufbauende Regelung
der Fahrzeugdynamik diese Vorteile konsequent ausnutzen kann, wird in diesem Beitrag ein hierarchisches Konzept zur
Fahrdynamikregelung vorgestellt, das eine Unterteilung der Beobachtungs- und Regelungsstruktur auf Rad- und Fahrzeugebene
vorsieht.
A potential field-based PSO approach to multi-robot cooperation for target search and hunting
Authors: Cao Xiang , Sun Changyin
Published: December 2017

The control design of target search and hunting using multi-robot remains a challenge in recent years. In this paper, we
propose a control algorithm of multi-robot for target search and hunting inspired by potential field-based particle swarm
optimization (PPSO). Firstly, a potential field function is established according to the initial positions of the
obstacles, un-search area and targets. Then, the fitness function of PSO's (particle swarm optimization) is determined by
the potential function of the work area. Lastly, multi-robot start performing target search and hunting missions driven by
the proposed PPSO algorithm. Simulation results demonstrate that the PPSO algorithm is applicable and feasible for
multi-robot cooperation to search and hunting targets. Compared with other commonly used methods for control of
multi-robot, simulation results indicate that the PPSO algorithm has more stability and higher efficiency.
Exploring customer satisfaction with university cafeteria food services. An empirical study of Temptation Restaurant at Taylor’s University, Malaysia
Authors: Garg Anshul , Kumar Jeetesh
Published: December 2017

This study investigates the link between the different service characteristics that have an influence on customer satisfaction in university cafeteria food services. A conceptual model comprising of different variables like food and beverage quality, service quality, food choice, price and value equality, and ambience were studied for customer satisfaction to explore the relationship among them. This study examined how dining experiences influence the satisfaction and loyalty of both non-mature (students) and mature (staff) customers, in order to find their similarities and differences within the context of university cafeteria services. The study was conducted at Taylor’s University in Malaysia by using a quantitative research approach, and 231 students and 63 staff members of the university participated in the study. The findings reveal that the various quality factors considered in the study are positively correlated with customer satisfaction and have a significant impact on the satisfaction level of both students and staff who dined at the university cafeteria. It could be concluded from the results that the influence of price offered at the university cafeteria had a significant effect on respondents’ loyalty. The result of this study offers a direction towards better the services and facilities, which lead to an increase of the competitive influence of the restaurant business in the marketplace.
Cerebral germinoma revealed through a polydipsic polyuric syndrome in a 10-year-old girl: case report
Authors: Van Lierde , Clapuyt P. , Nassogne M. C. , Oriot Philippe
Published: December 2017

Cerebral germinoma is rare. Although the imaging of the germinoma is very evocative, it’s very polymorphic clinical expression is at the origin of misguided diagnosis, as illustrated in our case. We report the case of a 10-year-old girl with diabetes insipidus evolving for 12 months associated with a decrease in visual acuity. Brain MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) revealed a tumor process in the suprasellar region. The stereotaxic biopsy of the tumor confirmed the diagnosis of the hypothalamic germinoma, which allowed the patient to be treated by radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The incidence of cerebral germinoma, its clinical (principally diabetes insipidus) and radiological features as well as therapeutic strategies are discussed hereby.
Antibacterial activity of Zataria multiflora essential oil and its main components against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Mahboubi Mohaddese , Heidarytabar Rezvan , Mahdizadeh Elaheh
Published: December 2017

Introduction: In Iranian traditional medicine, Zataria multiflora Boiss (Lamiaceae family) is reputed due to its antiseptic effects. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial and biofilm killing effects of Z. multiflora essential oil and main components against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Methods: The main components of essential oil were identified by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antibacterial properties of Z. multiflora oil and main components were determined by assessing the MIC and MBC values, and their inhibition percent of biofilm killing effects were determined by the evaluation of optical density. The role of each main component in these activities was determined according to the chemical profiles of essential oil. Results: Thymol (38.7%), carvacrol (30.6%), and p-cymene (8.3%) were main components of twenty five components of essential oil. Carvacrol had the higher role in antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa, followed by thymol. P-cymene enhanced the antibacterial activities of thymol and carvacrol against P. aeruginosa. Carvacrol showed the weak role in biofilm killing effect. In spite of the low antibacterial activity of p-cymene against P. aeruginosa, it can enhance the antibacterial activity of thymol or carvacrol. Conclusion: Z. multiflora essential oil can be used for the management of P. aeruginosa infections. Determining the precise role of each components needs investigating in their behavior in different media.
Twinflower (Linnaea borealis L.) – plant species of potential medicinal properties
Authors: Thiem Barbara , Buk-Berge Elisabeth
Published: December 2017

Twinflower (Linnaea borealis L.) is a widespread circumboreal plant species belonging to Linnaeaceae family (previously Caprifoliaceae). L. borealis commonly grows in taiga and tundra. In some countries in Europe, including Poland, twinflower is protected as a glacial relict. Chemical composition of this species is not well known, however in folk medicine of Scandinavian countries, L. borealis has a long tradition as a cure for skin diseases and rheumatism. It is suggested that twinflower has potential medicinal properties. The new study on lead secondary metabolites responsible for biological activity are necessary. This short review summarizes very sparse knowledge on twinflower: its biology, distribution, conservation status, chemical constituents, and describes the role of this plant in folk tradition of Scandinavian countries.
Monomodal and multimodal instantiations of conceptual metaphors of Brexit
Authors: Morozova Olena
Published: December 2017

This article offers a linguistic analysis of the conceptual metaphors of Brexit, in which the source and the target belong to the same semiotic mode or to different ones. It is shown that the variation of high-level cognitive models underpinning metaphoric images of Brexit reflects the author’s stance towards the event. Phases of Brexit are associated with different image-schematic cognitive models, and this impinges on the range of those metaphors of Brexit that involve low-level concepts.
Macroscopic and microscopic typology: Basic Valence Orientation, more pertinacious than meets the naked eye
Authors: Plank Frans , Lahiri Aditi
Published: December 2017

Basic Valence Orientation has been suggested as a typological parameter by Nichols, Peterson, & Barnes (2004). Generalising over the entire lexicon, the idea is that languages can be distinguished as transitivising or detransitivising, depending on whether their verbs are basically intransitive or transitive and the opposite valency values require some means of derivation, such as causativisation or decausativisation. Whereas derivedness among valency opposites is assessed through easy-to-spot overt segmental morphological or syntactic markers by Nichols et . (2004), we argue that
Conception of the Maritime Transport Safety in the Baltic Sea in 2009 to 2015
Authors: Caban Jacek , Brumercikova Eva , Bukova Bibiana , Brumercik Frantisek , Vrábel Ján , Šarkan Branislav , Ignaciuk Piotr
Published: December 2017

The maritime transport is particularly exposed to danger due to the environment of its operations. These are the threat dependent and independent of human e.g. environmental, safety health and life of humans or belongings. In spite of attempts to limit the risk of danger, it is impossible to completely eliminate it. The article presents some aspects of the state of transportation safety in the Baltic Sea from Statistical Yearbook of Maritime Economy and Helcom as well as attempt the undertaken to analyses the security state of this sea area in 2009 to 2015.
Generalized Differential Transform Method for Solving RLC Electric Circuit of Non-Integer Order
Authors: Magesh N. , Saravanan A.
Published: December 2017

Systematic construction of fractional ordinary differential equations [FODEs] has gained much attention nowadays research because dimensional homogeneity plays a major role in mathematical modeling. In order to keep up the dimension of the physical quantities, we need some auxiliary parameters. When we utilize auxiliary parameters, the FODE turns out to be more intricate. One of such kind of model is non-homogeneous fractional second order RLC circuit. To solve this kind of complicated FODEs, we need proficient modern analytical method. In this paper, we use two different methods, one is modern and the other is traditional, namely generalized differential transform Method (GDTM) and Laplace transform method (LTM) to obtain the analytical solution of non-homogeneous fractional second order RLC circuit. We present the solution in terms of convergent series. Though GDTM and LTM are capable to produce the exact solution of fractional RLC circuit, great strength of GDTM over LTM is that differential transform of initial conditions occupy the coefficients of first two terms in series solution so that we arrive exact solution with few iterations and also, it does not allow the noise terms while computing the coefficients. Due to this, GDTM takes less time to converge than LTM and it has been demonstrated. Furthermost, we discuss the characteristics of non-homogeneous fractional second order RLC circuit through numerical illustrations.
Habitat requirements of Elodea canadensis Michx. in Polish rivers
Authors: Cegłowska Aurelia , Jusik Szymon , Samecka-Cymerman Aleksandra , Klink Agnieszka , Szoszkiewicz Krzysztof
Published: December 2017

The main objectives of this work were to investigate the range of habitat conditions (in terms of water chemistry and hydromorphological parameters) at sites colonized by Elodea canadensis and to analyze the species composition of communities with this plant species. We analyzed physicochemical, hydromorphological and biological data from 1135 sites located in Polish rivers to identify environmental factors that determine the occurrence of Elodea canadensis. Canadian waterweed was present at 18.1% of the analyzed river sites, located mainly in the lowlands (26.2% of all lowland sites).The results show that Elodea canadensis prefers moderately mineralized water (545 ± 329 μS cm−1), rich in calcium and magnesium carbonates (174 ± 63 mg CaCO3 l−1, 84.1 ± 31.4 mg Ca2+ l−1 and 11.1 ± 6.4 mg Mg2+ l−1), with moderate concentrations of chlorides and sulfates (38.9 ± 59.1 mg Cl- l−1 and 62.3 ± 50.9 mg SO4
2− l−1) and in terms of nutrients, it prefers water from moderately rich to mesotrophic and eutrophic. This plant has high light requirements and grows mainly in unshaded sections of shallow rivers. The studied species avoids sections of rivers strongly transformed and those with reinforced banks and bottoms. Canadian waterweed occurs mostly in the company of vascular macrophytes associated with slow-flowing rivers with sandy bottom material, indicating mesotrophic and eutrophic water.
Some physical properties of mursh developed on limnic limestones in NW Poland
Authors: Jarnuszewski Grzegorz
Published: December 2017

Post-bog soils developed on carbonate sediments are closely related to a young-glacial landscape and postglacial lakes. Drainage of biogenic accumulation area leads to a series of transformations in accumulated formations, including the process of decession. The studies conducted in the years 2009–2012 were focused on post-bog soils near lakes: Strzeszowskie, Sitno and Drawskie in Western Pomerania. The examined soils belong to murshic soils and gleysols (The classification of Polish soils). Mursh horizons contained from 0.2 to 43.3% of carbonate and from 27.2 to 77.6% of non-carbonates fractions (Ncf), and varying amount of organic matter depending on the degree of mineralisation. Specific density of surface horizons was in the range from 1.76 to 2.33 Mg·m−3, and bulk density from 0.28 to 0.68 Mg·m−3. Higher porosity was found in mursh organic soils in comparison to gleysols. The studies showed that the content of carbonate fraction was related with specific density, bulk density, porosity and water capacity. Obtained results of physical and physico-chemical analysis indicate that dewatering depth of post-bog soils developed on limnic limestone are reflected in worsened water retention properties and reduced capillary ascent in the upper layers of carbonate formations of gleysols.
Optimal expected utility risk measures
Authors: Geissel Sebastian , Sass Jörn , Seifried Frank Thomas
Published: December 2017

This paper introduces optimal expected utility (OEU) risk measures,
investigates their main properties and puts them in perspective to alternative risk
measures and notions of certainty equivalents.
By taking the investor’s point of view, OEU maximizes the sum of capital available today and the certainty equivalent of capital in the future.
To the best of our knowledge, OEU is the only existing utility-based risk measure that is (non-trivial and) coherent if the utility function u has constant relative risk aversion.
We present several different risk measures that can be derived with special choices of u and illustrate that OEU is more sensitive than value at risk and average value at risk with respect to changes of the probability of a financial loss.
Verfassungssoziologie als Rechtskulturvergleich
Authors: Witte Daniel , Bucholc Marta
Published: December 2017

Verfassungen bilden einen komplexen kulturellen Tatbestand, der sich als normative Ordnung allein nicht angemessen beschreiben lässt. Hieraus ergeben sich vielfältige komparative Potenziale, die bislang weder in der Rechtsvergleichung noch in der Soziologie des Rechts ausgeschöpft scheinen. Der Beitrag skizziert vor diesem Hintergrund die Grundzüge einer rechtskulturvergleichenden Verfassungssoziologie. Zu diesem Zweck wird in einem ersten Schritt ein Analyseraster vorgeschlagen, das an der Mehrdimensionalität und Vielgestaltigkeit von Verfassungskulturen orientiert ist. Dabei wird zwischen einernormativ-semantischen, einersymbolisch-epistemischen, einerpraktisch-diskursivenund einerorganisatorisch-sozialstrukturellenDimension von Verfassungskultur unterschieden. In einem zweiten Schritt wird diese Analytik exemplarisch auf die Verfassungskulturen der USA sowie Polens angewendet, die sodann in einem dritten Schritt miteinander kontrastiert werden. Der Beitrag schließt mit einigen Anmerkungen zur Logik und dem heuristischen Nutzen des Untersuchungsschemas.
Systematic Review of the Association Between Physical Fitness and Musculoskeletal Injury Risk: Part 3—Flexibility, Power, Speed, Balance, and Agility
Authors: de la Motte Sarah J. , Lisman Peter , Gribbin Timothy C. , Murphy Kaitlin , Deuster Patricia A.
Published: December 2017

de la Motte, SJ, Lisman, P, Gribbin, TC, Murphy, K, and Deuster, PA. Systematic review of the association between physical fitness and musculoskeletal injury risk: part 3—flexibility, power, speed, balance, and agility. J Strength Cond Res 33(6): 1723–1735, 2019—We performed a systematic review and evaluation of the existing scientific literature on the association between flexibility, power, speed, balance, and agility, and musculoskeletal injury (MSK-I) risk in military and civilian populations. MEDLINE, EBSCO, EMBASE, and the Defense Technical Information Center were searched for original studies published from 1970 to 2015 that examined associations between these physical fitness measures (flexibility, power, speed, balance, and agility) and MSK-I. Methodological quality and strength of the evidence were determined after criteria adapted from previously published systematic reviews. Twenty-seven of 4,229 citations met our inclusion criteria. Primary findings indicate that there is (a) moderate evidence that hamstring flexibility, as measured by performance on a sit-and-reach test or active straight leg raise test assessed with goniometry, and ankle flexibility, assessed with goniometry, are associated with MSK-I risk; (b) moderate evidence that lower body power, as measured by performance on a standing broad jump or vertical jump with no countermovement, is associated with MSK-I risk; (c) moderate evidence that slow sprint speed is associated with MSK-I risk; (d) moderate evidence that poor performance on a single-leg balance test is associated with increased risk for ankle sprain; and (e) insufficient evidence that agility is associated with MSK-I risk. Several measures of flexibility, power, speed, and balance are risk factors for training-related MSK-I in military and civilian athletic populations. Importantly, these findings can be useful for military, first responder, and athletic communities who are seeking evidence-based metrics for assessing or stratifying populations for risk of MSK-I.
Had1 Is Required for Cell Wall Integrity and Fungal Virulence in Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Jung Won-Hee , Son Ye-Eun , Oh Sang-Hun , Fu Ci , Kim Hye Shin , Kwak Jin-Hwan , Cardenas Maria E , Heitman Joseph , Park Hee-Soo
Published: December 2017

Calcineurin modulates environmental stress survival and virulence of the human fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans. Previously, we identified 44 putative calcineurin substrates, and proposed that the calcineurin pathway is branched to regulate targets including Crz1, Pbp1, and Puf4 in C. neoformans. In this study, we characterized Had1, which is one of the putative calcineurin substrates belonging to the ubiquitously conserved haloacid dehalogenase β-phosphoglucomutase protein superfamily. Growth of the had1∆ mutant was found to be compromised at 38° or higher. In addition, the had1∆ mutant exhibited increased sensitivity to cell wall perturbing agents, including Congo Red and Calcofluor White, and to an endoplasmic reticulum stress inducer dithiothreitol. Virulence studies revealed that the had1 mutation results in attenuated virulence compared to the wild-type strain in a murine inhalation infection model. Genetic epistasis analysis revealed that Had1 and the zinc finger transcription factor Crz1 play roles in parallel pathways that orchestrate stress survival and fungal virulence. Overall, our results demonstrate that Had1 is a key regulator of thermotolerance, cell wall integrity, and virulence of C. neoformans.
Adolescent Loss-of-Control Eating and Weight Loss Maintenance After Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Goldschmidt Andrea B. , Khoury Jane , Jenkins Todd M. , Bond Dale S. , Thomas J. Graham , Utzinger Linsey M. , Zeller Meg H. , Inge Thomas H. , Mitchell James E.
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND:

Loss-of-control (LOC) eating is common in adults undergoing bariatric surgery and is associated with poorer weight outcomes. Its long-term course in adolescent bariatric surgery patients and associations with weight outcomes are unclear.

METHODS:

Adolescents (n = 234; age range = 13–19 years) undergoing bariatric surgery across 5 US sites were assessed for postsurgery follow-up at 6 months and 1, 2, 3, and 4 years. Descriptive statistics and generalized linear mixed models were used to describe the prevalence of LOC eating episodes involving objectively large amounts of food and continuous eating, respectively. Generalized linear mixed models investigated the association of any LOC eating with short- and long-term BMI changes.

RESULTS:

At baseline, objectively large LOC eating was reported by 15.4% of adolescents, and continuous LOC eating by 27.8% of adolescents. Both forms of LOC eating were significantly lower at all postsurgical time points relative to presurgery (range = 0.5%–14.5%; Ps < .05). However, both behaviors gradually increased from 6-month to 4-year follow-up (Ps < .05). Presurgical LOC eating was not related to percent BMI change over follow-up (P = .79). However, LOC eating at 1-, 2-, and 3-year follow-up was associated with lower percent BMI change from baseline at the next consecutive assessment (Ps < .05).

CONCLUSIONS:

Although presurgical LOC eating was not related to relative weight loss after surgery, postoperative LOC eating may adversely affect long-term weight outcomes. Rates of LOC eating decreased from presurgery to 6-months postsurgery but increased thereafter. Therefore, this behavior may warrant additional empirical and clinical attention.
Acceleration sensor technology for rail track asset condition monitoring
Authors: Känsälä Klaus , Rantala Seppo , Kauppila Osmo , Leviäkangas Pekka
Published: December 2017

In the rail traffic industry, the utilisation of inexpensive real-time sensors and the industrial internet of things for proactive asset management is a relatively new concept with great potential. As railways are one of the longest-lasting infrastructure assets, even marginal efficiency and cost gains have a significant impact on the life-cycle cost. This paper shows how wireless three-dimensional acceleration sensor technology can be applied to monitor track condition. The data collection was carried out in October 2016 on a railway line operated by Finnish Railways. In the test, a sensor was attached to a train unit and the acceleration of the train on a track segment was repeatedly measured at variable speeds. The collected data set was enhanced using map-matching and Bayesian filtering in order to improve the Global Positioning System location accuracy of the data. The filtered acceleration signals were analysed, and detected anomalies were compared against known parameters such as bridges and switches. The results of the testing support the feasibility of the concept. Finally, the implications of the concept regarding proactive asset management of track networks and statistical process control-based monitoring of tracks’ condition are discussed.
Longitudinal acceleration of vehicles on complex mountain roads
Authors: Xu Jin , Yang Kui , Zhou Jia , Wang Xu , Shao Yi-Ming
Published: December 2017

Longitudinal acceleration is an important parameter used to describe a vehicle's kinematic behaviour and driver behaviour. Existing research on this parameter mainly focuses on urban roads. In this study, operational data were collected from vehicles travelling on two-lane mountain roads with complex shapes under normal driving conditions. The longitudinal acceleration's relationship with and sensitivity to road geometry and driving speed were analysed. The results showed that the inflection points of the cumulative frequency profile of acceleration/deceleration were located between the 90th and 92nd percentiles. At the 85th percentile, the acceleration and deceleration rates were 0·60 and 0·85 m/s2, respectively. Additionally, the probability distribution curves for acceleration and deceleration were both positively skewed, and the peak values of the curves were 0·17 and 0·25 m/s2, respectively. Furthermore, as the curve radius increased, the acceleration and deceleration rates decreased, and as the curve deflection angle increased, the acceleration and deceleration rates increased. The critical radius at which a driver would no longer decelerate while negotiating a curve was 275 m for the observed driving behaviour. Finally, as the driving speed increased, the acceleration rate decreased and finally became zero when the driving speed reached 90 km/h.
Organization Structure, Operation Mode and Management Mechanism in Confucius Institute of Barcelona
Authors: Bo Gao , An Chang , Shiru Chang
Published: December 2017

Focusing on the organizational system,operation mode and mechanism of ConfuciusInstitute of Barcelona, this paper explores thesuccessful experience, current problems andsolutions of Confucius Institute of Barcelona.This study involves the issues of administration,Chinese language teaching, cultural activity,relations and integration with the localgovernment, aiming at summarizing thesuccessful experience of Confucius Institute ofBarcelona in order to provide reference for theconstruction of Confucius Institutes, especiallythe ones in Spanish-speaking countries andfurther spreading the Chinese language andculture globally.
Language Security Problems: A Historical Survey
Authors: Hongwei Jia
Published: December 2017

This paper, grounded on historical facts oflanguage policies worldwide, reviews theevolution of language policies in Great Britain,United States, Germany, France and SovietUnion in terms of national security, analyses theachievements of language security at home,reconsiders the current situation of languagesecurity in China, and points out the weaknessesof language security problems in China: (1)stressing on macro-level researches, (2) standingstill over literature review, (3) lack of theresearches based on ethnic areas andcross-border regions, (4) short of the studies oflanguage security problems over internetmedia, and (5) language security problems inethnic areas and regional language securitystrategy to be done.
A Pragma-Dialectical Approach to Trade Friction Discourse: A Case Study of a Public Letter in Sino-US Trade Friction on Tire Special Safeguard
Authors: Peng Wu , Rui Zhao
Published: December 2017

Based on the analytical framework ofStrategic Maneuvering, this paper analyzes andevaluates the public letter from China Chamberof Commerce of Metals, Minerals & ChemicalsImporters & Exporters (CCCMC) and China RubberIndustry Association (CRIA) to Obama andUnited States Trade Representative (USTR) onJuly 27th, 2009 to reveal the discursivestrategies and their corresponding linguisticrealizations manipulated in tire special safeguardcase. The research results show that, strategicmaneuvering in CCCMC & CRIA’s public lettersis integratedly realized through choice of topicalpotential, catering for audience demands andchoice of presentational devices, which issupported by such argumentative strategies aspresupposition, contrast, appeal to audience'svalues, appeal to authority, vagueness,repetition, statistics, appeal to opponent ’ sconcession, and the like. CCCMC & CRIA’s publicletter has its shortcomings in clarification ofdifference of opinion in the confrontation stage,in choice of starting in the opening stage, inchoice of topics in the argumentation stage andin manipulation of such specific argumentativerhetoricstrategies as ‘contrast’ and ‘statistics’.In view of China’s merits and deficiency, Chinashould: (1) clarify the confrontation, opening,argumentation and concluding stages of theargumentative discourse and flexibly set thedialectic and rhetoric aims of these four stagesaccording to the context; (2) strategicallymaneuver among topical potential, audiencedemand and presentational devices, in line withthe established dialectic and rhetoric aims indifferent argumentative stages; (3) recognizethe institutional context of trade frictiondiscourse and the importance of languageexpression, and cultivate an assertive image.
A Pragma-Dialectical Approach to Political Discourse Analysis: A Case Study of the Former United State Trade Representative Ron Kirk’s Remarks on the Poultry Case
Authors: Wen Shi
Published: December 2017

Under the research framework of Pragma-Dialectics, this paper analyses and evaluates theformer United State trade representative RonKirk’s remarks on the trade conflict of poultry.Through this case study, I intend to develop apragma-dialectical approach to the politicaldiscourse. Based on the argumentativereconstruction, strategic maneuvering analysisand critical evaluation of the remarks, thispaper finds that even if Ron Kirk’s remarks lookreasonable apparently, there are still somefallacies hidden in them. In order to make theUS government benefit most from the tradeconflict, after considering comprehensively ofthe potential topics, audience demands, andpresentational devices, Ron Kirk maneuversstrategically by choosing beneficial startingpoints and arranging argumentative schemestechnically. By doing so, he can transmit Anti-China ideology to the international societyimperceptibly. In addition, by taking intoconsideration the background information ofthe poultry case and the Ten Commandments ofa critical discussion, this paper reveals that, theaccepted starting points and the argumentschemes are abused in Ron Kirk’s remarks.Through the case study, this paper tries to studypolitical discourse from Pragma-Dialecticalapproach and provide feasible analyticalmethods and reasonable evaluative standardsfor the political discourse analysis, so that anew perspective will be offered for researcheson political discourse.
A Pragma-Dialectical Study of Personal Attack in China-Related Letters to the Editorof The New York Times
Authors: Pinchao Lu
Published: December 2017

This article under the research frameworkof pragma-dialectics, analyses the use of personalattacks in the China-related Letters to theEditor of The New York Times, and evaluates itsreasonableness. The research results show thatthe personal attacks in the China-related Lettersto the Editor of The New York Times can bemainly classified into three subtypes: the abusivevariant (insult others), the circumstantial variant(suspect motives) and the tu quoque (you also).Both reasonable and unreasonable use of personalattack are identified. The unreasonable use ofpersonal attack is mainly caused by: (1) the useof personal attack prevents the opponents fromcasting doubts or proposing his or herstandpoint; (2) the use of personal attack hasdeficiency or even is invalid in logic, failing inthe examination of critical questions. Onaccount of this, the related discourse subjectsin similar kind of discourse practice, should: (1)design their arguments reasonably according tothe code of conduct of critical discussion (TenCommandments); (2) consider the audience asan extremely rigor one, making sure that theargument can pass any critical examination,and so the rational and responsible figure of theproponents can be guaranteed.
A Study of Discourse System of National Image Construction
Authors: Xiaobo Liang , Juling Tan
Published: December 2017

The construction of discourse isindispensable to the construction of nationalimage to a large extent, particularly a set ofdiscourse built from various perspectives. Itmust pertain to the real fact of the country andto the needs of her future development. Moreimportantly, it must be effective. Consideringthe characteristics of the national image and itsconstruction discourse, the discourse system ofour country’s national image needs, first of all,to have a good treatment of the corecharacteristics of our country’s national image;meanwhile, it also needs to have a goodhandling of the basic characteristics of ourcountry’s national image. Specifically speaking,it is necessary to take in account of factors likeethnicity, culture, politics, space-time andcognition of national image discourse for onething; it is also necessary to take into accountsuch factors as stability, multi-dimension,inheritance and creation, and the crisiscoordination of national image discourse foranother.
Dynamic Evolution of the Type of “meideshuo” Discourse Marker and Its Metapragmatic Functions
Authors: Meijun Luo
Published: December 2017

A type of “meideshuo” discourse markerscontains three subtypes: “meideshuo”,“meihuashuo”, and “meishuode”. From thepoint of view of semantic-pragmatics, this typeof discourse markers evolves dynamically fromthe meaning of “no words to say” to “positivemeaning”, and finally evolves to a discoursemarker. The metapragmatic functions of thediscourse markers are new information focused,proposition affirmed, and communicativepurpose predicted. The process of the discoursemarker evolution is not only the process oflexicalization and grammaticalization, but alsothe process of intersubjectification. Thepragmatic extensions and semantic entailmentare contributed to function as motivations forthe dynamic evolution of “meideshuo”discourse markers.
Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal inguinal repair versus open Lichtenstein repair: a randomized control trial
Authors: Manjunath Darshan A. , Gurugunti Umeshchandra D. , Radhakrishna Veerabhadra
Published: December 2017

Background: There have been a plenty of evolution in surgical techniques of hernia repair. The current standard technique is tension-free repair. The different studies show different results with the use of laparoscopy in performing tension-free hernia repair. Hence a study was conducted to compare the laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair with open Lichtenstein repair regarding operative complications, pain, analgesic usage, and time to return to normal activities.Methods: A randomized control trial was conducted in the Department of General Surgery in a tertiary center from December 2010 to May 2012. All patients underwent either open Lichtenstein repair or laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair (TAPP). Both the procedures included a recording of operative time, operative complications, pain, analgesic usage, hospital stay, surgical site infection (SSI), and time to return to normal activities. Mann Whitney U test, student ‘t’ test and Fisher’s exact test were used to study the significance of the difference. A p-value <0.05 was considered significant.Results: The open Lichtenstein procedure was found to have a significantly less operative time compared to TAPP procedure (54±15 minutes vs. 75.7±31.6 minutes; p=0.001; CI=95%; Mann Whitney ‘U’ test). TAPP group had a significantly low pain at 12hrs and 24hrs postoperatively. There was no difference between the TAPP group and Lichtenstein group regarding the mean hospital stay (37.2±12.1 hours vs. 38.2±13.6 hours; p=0.7; CI=95%; Mann Whitney ‘U’ test). The mean time to return to work was 12.1±11.8 days in TAPP group, which was significantly lesser than the Lichtenstein group (20.9±4 days; p= 0.04; CI=95%; student ‘t’ test). No recurrence was found.Conclusions: Laparoscopic TAPP was a safe and effective procedure for inguinal hernia repair, and it can replace open procedure.
Perforated peptic ulcer (PPU): a one year review in tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Kumar Praveen , Kumar Nilkamal
Published: December 2017

Background: Peptic ulcer perforation is a common surgical emergency. The perforation usually involves the anterior wall of duodenum (60%), although, it might occur in antrum (20%) and lesser curvature of stomach (20%). Conventional open surgery involving repair with omental patch remains the gold standard treatment. This study evaluates the patterns and demographic factors associated with this common surgical disease and the outcome analysis of surgery in our state.Methods: The study was undertaken for patients admitted in surgery department in a single unit who underwent open surgery for perforated peptic ulcer. A total of 78 patients were assessed between January 2016 to January 2017.Results: The study found PPU to be a male dominated disease in fifth decade and with significant association with smoking and alcohol consumption. First part of duodenum being the commonest location of PPU, the peritoneal contamination was directly associated with the duration of symptoms. Wound infection was the most frequent post-operative complication. Simple repair with omental patch remains an effective treatment modality.Conclusions: Perforated peptic ulcer disease commonly affects middle aged males especially due to association with alcohol intake. Simple closure with omental patch followed by H. pylori eradication is an effective treatment modality.
Wage Inequality Within and Between Occupations
Authors: Helland Håvard , Bol Thijs , Drange Ida
Published: December 2017

Western countries, including Scandinavian nations, have witnessed an increase in wage inequality over the past decades. Recent studies attribute rising wage inequality in the United States and United Kingdom primarily to between-occupation inequality, while changes in within-occupation wage inequality were less important for the overall growth. We investigate this hypothesis in the Norwegian context. Our results show a slight increase in inequality from 2003 to 2012, mostly accounted for by between-occupational wage inequality. Occupations became a more important determinant of wages, but the increase in total wage inequality was small. In order to explain trends in wage inequality, we turn to three occupational characteristics: licensure, unionization, and credentialization.
Разработка методики расчета переменной части заработной платы менеджеров среднего звена инфокоммуникационной компании на базе целевых показателей
Authors: Яценко Виктория Викторовна , Яковлева Мария Владимировна
Published: December 2017

Предлагаемая статья представляет собой авторский взгляд на определение переменной части заработной платы менеджеров среднего звена инфокоммуникационных компаний. В работе обоснована целесообразность применения трех видов целевых показателей для оценки результативности деятельности менеджеров среднего звена, таких как ключевые показатели эффективности, смарт-задачи и стандарты. Разработана усовершенствованная методика расчета фактического размера премиальной выплаты для должности «менеджер по продажам» инфокоммуникационной компании за оцениваемый период. Данная методика позволит оставить фонд оплаты труда прежним в целевом периоде, при этом обеспечит прозрачность и объективность выплат в рамках переменной части заработной платы менеджеров среднего звена. Результаты исследования могут быть использованы специалистами для обеспечения эффективного управления персоналом в сфере инфокоммуникаций.
TEORIA DA AÇÃO COMUNICATIVA E EXTENSÃO RURAL
Authors: Samborski Tarcisio , Pires da Silveira Vicente Celestino , Mikoski Samborski Andrea Melissa
Published: December 2017

O ensaio busca fazer uma leitura da Extensão Rural a partir do referencial teórico de Habermas. Baseado em  sua teoria da modernidade aponta-se que as condições que permitiram o difusionismo foram alteradas, dificultando apostas no retorno do mesmo. Já a sua teoria da ação comunicativa, ao permitir compreender melhor a ação extensionista, pode servir para ampliar a comunicação na Extensão Rural.
ENTRE O SOCIAL E O ECONÔMICO, UMA GESTÃO COOPERATIVA É POSSÍVEL? ESTUDO SOBRE AS ESTRATÉGIAS DE COMUNICAÇÃO NAS COOPERATIVAS AGROPECUÁRIAS
Authors: Sousa Diego Neves de , Milagres Cleiton Silva Ferreira , Costa Michele Silva , Macedo Alex Dos Santos
Published: December 2017

Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar as estratégias de comunicação nas  cooperativas agropecuárias, localizadas no estado de Minas Gerais, no contexto do modelo federado de cooperativas. A pesquisa é qualitativa que contou com o apoio da técnica de entrevista semi-estruturada. Entre os resultados, postula-se que exista nesta articulação diferentes processos de comunicação simultâneos e relacionados que precisam harmonizar interesses, demandas e exigências desses três níveis de instâncias, numa adequada escolha de canais e de mensagens.
A efetividade da governança corporativa sobre o risco dos ativos da BM&FBovespa
Authors: Besarria Cássio Nóbrega , Silva Herickson Santos
Published: December 2017

Com este artigo teve-se o propósito de verificar se a utilização dos métodos de governança corporativa adotados pelas empresas listadas na Bolsa de Valores, Mercadorias e Futuros de São Paulo (BM&FBovespa) diminui o risco nos ativos. Utilizando cotações do período de 01 de junho de 2012 a 04 de julho de 2016, este estudo se divide em três etapas: no primeiro momento, as cotações são otimizadas e analisadas quanto ao desempenho das três carteiras de variância mínima referentes aos diferentes níveis de governança corporativa: Nível 1 (N1), Nível 2 (N2) e Novo Mercado (NM). Na segunda etapa é estimado por MQO o modelo de precificação de ativos de Sharpe-Lintner-Black, o Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM). Na terceira etapa são comparados os desempenhos de carteiras representativas para as ações classificadas em diferentes níveis de governança com índices de governança propostos pela BM&FBovespa. De acordo com os resultados obtidos, foi observado que os ativos que possuem maior nível de transparência tendem a apresentar menores níveis de variância ou risco.Palavras-chave: Governança corporativa. Mercado financeiro. Risco financeiro. Abstract The purpose of this article was to verify if the use of the corporate governance methods adopted by the BM&FBovespa listed companies reduces the risk in the assets. Using prices from June 1, 2012 to July 4, 2016, this study is divided into three stages: at the first moment, the three minimum variance portfolios referring to the different corporate governance levels are optimized and analyzed: 1 (N1), Level 2 (N2) and Novo Mercado (NM). In the second stage, the asset pricing model of Sharpe-Lintner-Black, the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM), is estimated by MQO. In the third step, the performance of representative portfolios is compared to the shares rated at different levels of governance with governance indexes proposed by BM & FBovespa. According to the results obtained, it is observed that the assets with the highest level of transparency tend to have lower levels of variance or risk.Keywords: Corporate governance. Financial market. Financial risk.
Inovações em uma empresa brasileira do setor têxtil
Authors: Beck Franciele , Beuren Ilse Maria
Published: December 2017

Neste estudo objetivou-se verificar como se caracterizam as inovações em uma empresa brasileira do setor têxtil. Assim, realizou-se uma pesquisa descritiva, com abordagem qualitativa, por meio de um estudo de caso. Os resultados da pesquisa indicaram que as modalidades de inovações identificadas na literatura, relativas às inovações de produtos, de processos, tecnológicas, organizacionais e mercadológicas, foram constatadas na empresa objeto de estudo no período analisado, conforme os relatos dos entrevistados e a sua confirmação na análise documental. Conclui-se que a compreensão acerca da caracterização de cada modalidade de inovação que a empresa realiza, conforme percepção dos sujeitos da pesquisa e análise documental, alinhada com a literatura investigada, permite traçar o perfil inovativo da empresa diante do mercado competitivo em seu segmento de atuação. O resultado deste estudo contribui para a utilização da tipificação de inovação adotada na pesquisa, consubstanciada pela literatura, e identificada na empresa objeto de estudo.Palavras-chave: Caracterização das inovações. Tipificação de inovação adotada. Empresa têxtil. Innovations in a Brazilian company in the textile sectorAbstract The goal of this study was to verify how the innovations in a Brazilian company in the textile sector are characterized. Thus, a descriptive study, with a qualitative approach, through a case study was carried out. The survey results indicated that the modalities of innovations identified in the literature, regarding innovations of products, processes, technological, organizational and market, were found in the company object of study in the period analyzed, according to the reports of the respondents and confirmation in the documentary analysis. It is concluded that the understanding of the characteristics of each type of innovation that the company does, according to the perception of the individuals of the research and the documentary analysis, aligned with the literature investigated, makes it possible to trace the innovative profile of the company within the competitive market if its segment. The result of this study contributes to the use of the classification of innovation adopted in the research, supported by the literature and identified in the company object of study.Keywords: Characterization of innovations. Classification of innovation adopted. Textile company.
La ciudadanía europea ante el reto de la unidad política: ¿mero estatuto de libertades o motor para una sólida integración de la Unión Europea?
Authors: Di Maio Claudio , Tomás Ana
Published: December 2017

Este trabajo invita a una reflexión sobre el papel actual de la ciudadanía europea en el corazón del debate político y jurídico europeo. Los retos y desafíos que amenazan y minan la unidad de la Unión Europea en la actualidad afectan indefectiblemente a su ciudadanía, desplazándola a un segundo plano y colocándola en una posición de “paro sistémico”. En plena celebración del sesenta aniversario del Tratado de Roma y los treinta años de entrada de España en la Unión Europea y la relevante Declaración Schumann, hemos de afrontar un reto todavía pendiente: que los ciudadanos nos identifiquemos cada vez más con la Unión Europea, desarrollando una opinión pública, una conciencia política y una identidad europea.
Improcedencia de las sanciones por extemporaneidad y por no declarar cuando se presenta oportunamente la declaración de retención en la fuente sin pago total
Authors: Rueda Mantilla David
Published: December 2017

El artículo 15 de la Ley 1430 de 2010 estableció que “las declaraciones de retención en la fuente presentadas sin pago total no producirán efecto legal alguno, sin necesidad de acto administrativo que así lo declare”. Con esta norma, se ha entendido que, para todos los efectos legales, presentar una declaración de retención en la fuente sin pago es equiparable a no presentarla. Por esta razón, existe la creencia generalizada de que proceden las sanciones por extemporaneidad y por no declarar cuando un agente retenedor presenta dicha declaración sin pago total. En el presente artículo se argumenta que cuando esto ocurre, el agente retenedor no ha incurrido en ninguna conducta que amerite la imposición de dichas sanciones, de conformidad con una interpretación armónica del ordenamiento tributario
Análisis crítico del impuesto nacional al consumo de bolsas plásticas
Authors: Lee Yara Yhony Alberto
Published: December 2017

La Ley 1819 de 2016 en sus artículos 207 y 208 reguló en su integridad el Impuesto Nacional al Consumo de Bolsas Plásticas (en adelante INCBP). La propuesta de este nuevo tributo no fue invención del Gobierno Nacional, ya que no se consideró en el proyecto inicialmente presentado, sino que tuvo como creadores originales al partido Alianza Verde, y específicamente el senador Antonio Navarro Wolf, y al partido Centro Democrático; este último lo concibió como una tasa para la promoción del medioambiente. Finalmente, se incluyó en la ponencia de primer debate como un impuesto, evitando así una habilidosidad que eventualmente pudiese convertirse en una inconstitucionalidad de este impuesto (Lee Yara, www.gerencie.com, 2017). El INCBP parecería un impuesto superfluo,ya que gran parte de las discusiones son consideradas estériles, toda vez que los sujetos pasivos lo reducen a una discusión de $20. No obstante, como lo demostraremos a lo largo de este escrito, desde el punto de vista de la relación jurídico tributaria, tanto sustancial como formal, presenta serios desafíos conceptuales y prácticos que requieren ajustarse ya sea en futuras reformas tributarias, mediante decretos reglamentarios o vía doctrina oficial.