bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Houses of Contention:Tar BabyandEssence
Authors: Edmunds Susan
Published: August 2018

This essay argues that Essence magazine provides a crucial intertext for understanding Toni Morrison’s engagement in Tar Baby with the political debates that surrounded the “Black Is Beautiful” slogan in the black power era and her use of the Tar Baby story to dramatize and interpret those debates. Tar Baby responds to early scandals at the magazine spurred by white capitalist investment in the “Black Is Beautiful” slogan as well as the magazine’s coverage of a splintering black liberation movement, its Caribbean travel features, and its shifting assessments of affirmative action, white feminism, and domestic violence. Throughout, the novel uses the Tar Baby story to link the “Black Is Beautiful” slogan not with an emancipatory politics but instead with New World histories that have constituted racial blackness in and through division and that position black women to become scapegoats for the failure to achieve racial unity in the face of white domination.
Assessment of Cardiac Function and Prevalence of Sleep Disordered Breathing using Ambulatory Monitoring with Acoustic Cardiography – Initial Results from SWICOS
Authors: Bauer Peter , Arand Patricia , Radovanovic Dragana , Muggli Franco , Schoenenberger Andreas W. , Schoenenberger-Berzins Renate , Gallino Augusto , Ehret Georg , Erne Paul
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study was to assess the use of ambulatory acoustic cardiography during the initial data collection of the longitudinal study of a rural population in Switzerland (n=297, mean age 48.9 ±16.5 years, 57% female). Ambulatory acoustic cardiography non-invasively can assess sleep disordered breathing (SDB) and provides markers of left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction. The percentage of the third heart sound detected during sleep decreased significantly across age groups (age < 40 years, 40-60 years, > 60 years) for both genders (males, p=0.04; females, p=0.02). The percentage of a fourth heart sound detected exhibited an increasing trend for both genders with age suggesting increased diastolic dysfunction with aging. Mean electromechanical activation time (EMAT) during sleep was within the normal range across age groups and both genders (male 93.7 ± 11.6 ms, female 94.6 ± 13.0 ms), and did not vary significantly with age. A large proportion of subjects had a high likelihood of sleep disordered breathing (17.6%). Baseline characteristics categorized by SDB severity indicate increasing age, male gender and being overweight (BMI ≥ 25) to be associated with greater SDB severity. Acoustic cardiography findings categorized by SDB severity reveal increased nocturnal non-dipping heart rate, presence of atrial fibrillation, prolonged QRS duration and QTc interval, increased percentage of fourth heart sound detected, and longer EMAT to be significantly associated with greater SDB severity. Overall, acoustic cardiography detected a very low prevalence of systolic dysfunction, age-related increases in diastolic dysfunction and a moderate prevalence of sleep disordered breathing.
The Acute Effect of a Single Exhaustive Sprint Exercise Session on Post-Exercise Fat Oxidation Rate
Authors: Aslankeser Zübeyde , Balcı Şükrü Serdar
Published: August 2018

It is well known that substrate oxidation rates are increased by exercise. The present study had two main objectives: firstly, to examine the effect of a single exhaustive exercise session on post-exercise substrate oxidation and energy expenditure; and secondly, to determine the differences between athletes and non-athletes.

Material and methods: Eighteen healthy male athletes (mean ± SD age; 19.38 ± 2.26 years, VO2max; 60.57 ± 3.90 ml · kg-1 · min-1, n = 8) and non-athletes (age; 20.30 ± 1.26 years, VO2max; 44.97 ± 5.43 ml · kg-1 ·min-1, n = 10) volunteered to participate in the study. After an overnight fast, subjects performed a single sprint exercise session on a cycle ergometer with individual loads (0.075 kg per body weight) until volitional exhaustion. Energy expenditure (EE) and the substrate oxidation rate were measured at rest and during the post-exercise recovery period using indirect calorimetry. Results: Exhaustive exercise significantly increased post-exercise fat oxidation, energy expenditure and contribution of fat to EE (p < 0.05). Also, it significantly decreased post-exercise carbohydrate (CHO) oxidation and the contribution of CHO to EE (p < 0.05). However, the changes in the substrate oxidation rate and EE after the exercise test were not different between the groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: The study results suggest that a single short-duration exhaustive exercise session causes a higher fat oxidation rate during recovery than at rest, whereas training status did not affect this situation
Enhancing the predictability of least-squares collocation through the integration with least-squares-support vector machine
Authors: Elshambaky Hossam Talaat
Published: August 2018

Least-squares collocation (LSC) is a crucial mathematical tool for solving many geodetic problems. It has the capability to adjust, filter, and predict unknown quantities that affect many geodetic applications. Hence, this study aims to enhance the predictability property of LSC through applying soft computing techniques in the stage of describing the covariance function. Soft computing techniques include the support vector machine (SVM), least-squares-support vector machine (LS-SVM), and artificial neural network (ANN). A real geodetic case study is used to predict a national geoid from the EGM2008 global geoid model in Egypt. A comparison study between parametric and soft computing techniques was performed to assess the LSC predictability accuracy. We found that the predictability accuracy increased when using soft computing techniques in the range of 10.2 %–27.7 % and 8.2 %–29.8 % based on the mean square error and the mean error terms, respectively, compared with the parametric models. The LS-SVM achieved the highest accuracy among the soft computing techniques. In addition, we found that the integration between the LS-SVM with LSC exhibits an accuracy of 20 % and 25 % higher than using LS-SVM independently as a predicting tool, based on the mean square error and mean error terms, respectively. Consequently, the LS-SVM integrated with LSC is recommended for enhanced predictability in geodetic applications.
An Analysis of the Emergency Fire Response to the Colorado 2012 Waldo Canyon and 2013 Black Forest Fires
Authors: Marzolf Gregory S. , Sega Ronald M.
Published: August 2018

This research hypothesizes that changes in command and control along with increased levels of trust and training led to a stronger response in Colorado’s 2013 Black Forest fire than that of the 2012 Waldo Canyon fire. Because the fires were categorized as the worst in the region’s history, and because they occurred in very close succession, in roughly the same area, involving many of the same responders, the fires provide valuable insights into how the response system adapted, or failed to adapt, to overcome key events under both scenarios. The study found that the ability to tailor command and control and supporting response structures to a particular event instead of using traditional rigid frameworks were instrumental to a more effective response. The study goes on to suggest that even though the Black Forest fire was met with an improved response, a systems approach is needed to better accommodate increasingly complex future events.
Study of Chaos Control of a Dual-Ring Erbium-Doped Fiber Laser Using Parameter Method
Authors: Senlin Yan
Published: August 2018

This paper aims to study single-parameter and dual-parameter chaos control of a dual-ring erbium-doped fiber laser. We present the control model to pressure chaotic behavior of the laser to a periodic state or multi-periodic states by introducing a periodic mutational signal to adjust the losses of dual ring. When the loss of single ring is shifted between two different levels, the laser behaviors can be deduced to two single-period states, while two rings can emit cyclic pulses. We find a control-locking regime and discuss its frequency characteristic of the laser. When another signal is taken to control to perform on the loss, the laser can be deduced to show a period-2 state, a period-3 state, period-4 state and other multi-periodic states. And we find dual-dynamic controlled regimes, in which, one ring of the laser can be produced to show a periodic state while another ring presents a period-3 state. We find also a dual-period regime or a period-4 regime. When both the losses of dual ring are adjusted by shifting between different levels, the laser can produce a period-4, a period-6 and other multi-periodic states. The result indicates that chaos control of a dual-ring erbium-doped fiber laser can be realized using the single-parameter and dual-parameter methods.
Performance Estimation of Advanced Intensity Modulation Formats Using Hybrid SAC-OCDMA through IsOWC Channel
Authors: Sarangal Himali , Thapar Simrandeep Singh , Singh Paramjot , Sharma Isha , Kaur Harmandar
Published: August 2018

Spectral amplitude coding optical code division multiple access (SAC-OCDMA) is one of the most important multiplexing schemes of OCDMA that has turned out to be a stimulating investigating area in optical communication due to its increased privacy, network capacity and its flexibility in allocating the channels and asynchronous environment. On the other hand, Inter-satellite optical wireless communication (IsOWC) which is a favorable area of research in optical communication is useful for bursty transmissions and long-distance communications. In this paper, we have designed a hybrid SAC-OCDMA system through IsOWC channel using ZCC code for advanced intensity modulation formats (CSRZ, Db, and AMI). The investigation is done for four users at a bit rate of 40(4×10) Gb/s using a direct detection technique. Further, on comparing the proposed system using advanced intensity modulation formats, the result shows that system using CSRZ format is better in terms of BER, Q-factor, SNR and the eye diagram with respect to AMI and Db.
Performance Analysis of FBG WDM System using Different Optical Amplifiers
Authors: Jain Suraj , Kumar Chakresh
Published: August 2018

This paper aims to analyze the performance of FBG 60 channel wavelength-division multiplexing system using different optical amplifiers namely RAMAN, erbium-doped fiber amplifier (EDFA) and semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) separately at 10 Gbps data rate up to a fiber length of 280 km. Based upon the results, the performance of the three amplifiers has been compared on the basis of multiple performance parameters. It is seen that EDFA simulates good results in terms of bit error rate (BER) up to a fiber distance of approximately 80 km and Q factor up to a distance of approximately 90 km among all the three amplifiers. However, power received is least in EDFA. RAMAN amplifier provides a better Q factor after the fiber distance of approximately 90 km and a better BER after the fiber distance of approximately 80 km compared to the other three amplifiers. SOA shows better results in terms of power received up to a fiber distance of approximately 100 km. RAMAN amplifier provides better output power after a distance of 100 km. Eye diagrams and power spectrums of the network with different optical amplifiers has also been analyzed.
Analysis of Hybrid Buffer Based Optical Data Center Switch
Authors: Singh Arunendra , Tiwari Amod Kumar
Published: August 2018

Due to the explosive growth in internet traffic, servers are facing bottleneck in speed and bandwidth requirements. To meet these ever increasing demands fiber optic technology can be used. This paper discusses, a hybrid buffer based optical packet switch design with its pros and cons. This hybrid buffer offers both electronic and optical buffering. This paper investigates the packet loss rate (PLR) performance of hybrid buffer under variety of conditions. The usage of buffer under different loading conditions has discussed. The sharing of electronic and optical buffers with respect to arrival of traffic is simulated, and delay ratio of electronic to optical buffering is computed. Average energy consumption at various loading condition is evaluated. The performance of switch is also investigated in a hypothetical five nodes network, and PLR is obtained under four different combinations of buffering and deflection of contending packets.
On the recursive properties of one kind hybrid power mean involving two-term exponential sums and Gauss sums
Authors: Shen Shimeng
Published: August 2018

The main purpose of this paper is to study the computational problem of one kind hybrid power mean involving two-term exponential sums and quartic Gauss sums using the analytic method and the properties of the classical Gauss sums, and to prove some interesting fourth-order linear recurrence formulae for this problem. As an application of our result, we can also obtain an exact computational formula for one kind congruence equation mod p, an odd prime.
Multipreconditioned GMRES for simulating stochastic automata networks
Authors: Wen Chun , Huang Ting-Zhu , Gu Xian-Ming , Shen Zhao-Li , Zhang Hong-Fan , Liu Chen
Published: August 2018

Stochastic Automata Networks (SANs) have a large amount of applications in modelling queueing systems and communication systems. To find the steady state probability distribution of the SANs, it often needs to solve linear systems which involve their generator matrices. However, some classical iterative methods such as the Jacobi and the Gauss-Seidel are inefficient due to the huge size of the generator matrices. In this paper, the multipreconditioned GMRES (MPGMRES) is considered by using two or more preconditioners simultaneously. Meanwhile, a selective version of the MPGMRES is presented to overcome the rapid increase of the storage requirements and make it practical. Numerical results on two models of SANs are reported to illustrate the effectiveness of these proposed methods.
Regularization and error estimates for an inverse heat problem under the conformable derivative
Authors: Vu Ho , O’Regan Donal , Hoa Ngo Van
Published: August 2018

In this paper we study an inverse time problem for the nonhomogeneous heat equation under the conformable derivative which is a severely ill-posed problem. Using the quasi-boundary value method with two regularization parameters (one related to the error in a measurement process and the other is related to the regularity of the solution) we regularize this problem and obtain a Hölder-type estimation error for the whole time interval. Numerical results are presented to illustrate the accuracy and efficiency of the method.
Learning Bayesian networks based on bi-velocity discrete particle swarm optimization with mutation operator
Authors: Wang Jingyun , Liu Sanyang
Published: August 2018

The problem of structures learning in Bayesian networks is to discover a directed acyclic graph that in some sense is the best representation of the given database. Score-based learning algorithm is one of the important structure learning methods used to construct the Bayesian networks. These algorithms are implemented by using some heuristic search strategies to maximize the score of each candidate Bayesian network. In this paper, a bi-velocity discrete particle swarm optimization with mutation operator algorithm is proposed to learn Bayesian networks. The mutation strategy in proposed algorithm can efficiently prevent premature convergence and enhance the exploration capability of the population. We test the proposed algorithm on databases sampled from three well-known benchmark networks, and compare with other algorithms. The experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed algorithm in learning Bayesian networks.
Localization of microRNA-375 in perinatal rat pancreas
Authors: Larsen Louise , Rosenstierne Maiken W. , Nielsen Jens H. , Dalgaard Louise T.
Published: August 2018

MicroRNA (miRNA)-375 is highly expressed in the pancreatic endocrine islets. Maintaining appropriate miR-375 levels is very important for beta cell development, function and proliferation. The aim of the current study was to investigate the regulation and localization of miR-375 in rat perinatal pancreas at embryonic day 20 (E20), postnatal day 0 (D0) and day 2 (D2). Expression levels of miR-375 were measured by in situ hybridization on fixed neonatal rat pancreas. Interestingly, while miR-375 was detectable at robust levels at all three time points, the major site of expression of miR-375 at D0 and D2 was in pancreatic exocrine cells. Our data show that miR-375 has a dynamic change of expression in pancreatic exocrine tissue during the perinatal period. Moreover, these findings indicate that pancreatic endocrine cells may not always be the major source of expression of miR-375 in pancreas. We suggest that the marked change of miR-375 levels in exocrine cells following birth could regulate processes involved in the adaptation of the exocrine pancreas to digestion of external nutrients derived from milk.
The long noncoding RNA Bsr in the genomically imprinted Dlk1-Dio3 region is suppressed in newborn rat pancreas by gestational obesity
Authors: Jaksch Caroline , Iessi Isabela L. , Thams Peter , Poulsen Steen S. , Levin Barry E. , Dalgaard Louise T. , Nielsen Jens H.
Published: August 2018

Background: Fetal metabolic programming imposed by maternal obesity and impaired glucose tolerance predisposes the offspring to metabolic disease and beta cell dysfunction as adults. The aim of this study was to assess the whole pancreas RNA changes in neonatal offspring exposed to fetal programming. Methods: The outcome of fetal programming on offspring was tested using the selectively bred Diet Induced Obese (DIO) and the Diet Resistant (DR) strains. DIO and DR rats were fed either chow or high fat, high sucrose (high energy, HE) diet during gestation and the differences in pancreas RNA expression at two days after birth were measured by microarray. Pancreas sections were stained and analyzed for alpha and beta cell numbers. Neonatal islets were treated with cytotoxic cytokines and RNA measured by RT-Q-PCR. Results: Morphometric analyses revealed significant differences in alpha and beta cell numbers per pancreas or per islet by HE diet. Microarray analyses revealed 11 fold downregulation of the long noncoding RNA Bsr in whole pancreas by HE feeding of DIO rat dams. MicroRNAs from the same locus, the Dlk1- Dio3 imprinted region, were also decreased by HE diet. Moreover, treatment of isolated neonatal islets with inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β and IFN-γ, led to reduction of Bsr transcript in a time and dose dependent manner. Conclusions: Our data suggest that fetal programming of Bsr may play a role in beta cell dysfunction in obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Usage of Tagetes and Tanacetum as Dye Plants for Natural and Artificial Fibers
Authors: Kaššák Pavol , Kaffková Katarína
Published: August 2018

This study is presenting results from an experiment with two well-known dye plants and their interaction with different types of textile fibres. Briefly, fresh and dry inflorescences of Tagetes patula and dry inflorescences of Tanacetum vulgare were used for the preparation of a dyeing bath. Then, different samples of cloth (made from natural plant fibres (wool), artificial fibres (sloter and ortalion), both artificial and plant fibres (canvas) and natural animal fibres (wool)) were immersed into the hot dyeing baths. Results showed that both chosen plant species are suitable for textile dyeing, but they differ in colour density.
Effect of Site and Variety on Yield of Seed Potato in the North Rift Region of Kenya
Authors: Komen Simeon K. , Ochuodho Julius O. , Auma Elmada O.
Published: August 2018

Potato is Kenya’s second staple food crop, grown by small scale farmers who recycle seed due to unavailability of certified one, resulting in diseases build-up that reduces yields. The subdivision of once seed farms and change of use in the 1980’s effectively limit availability of suitable land for seed production against high demand of quality seed. Hence search for alternative sites in the North Rift for seed production are being explored. However, current varieties in commercial production were not evaluated for their performance in this region. The objectives of the study were to identify suitable potato varieties for seed production and for which elevation in the region.Well sprouted seed tubers of six local varieties were planted at Kitale (1901 m), Kapcherop (2386 m) and Kibigos (2887 m) above sea level following recommended management practices. Plant emergence was slowest at Kibigos while fastest at Kitale. Stem density varied with varieties and attained maximum numbers at 56 days after planting. Most of the varieties had 80% of tubers in seed grade 70 days after planting at Kitale. Introduction of potato varieties should be preceded by evaluation for their performance as some varieties seem more suitable while others do well across the sites for seed production. In cooler areas like Kapcherop and Kibigos potato tubers remain younger, emerge slowly compared to warmer areas, but attain maximum emergence 30 days after planting. Some varieties like Dutch Ronjin, have high number of tubers in seed size category while some have more ware size potatoes grown in same elevation for the same growth period.
The Ontology of Social Objects: Harman’s Immaterialism and Sartre’s Practico-Inert
Authors: Kleinherenbrink Arjen , Gusman Simon
Published: August 2018

In his recent Immaterialism, Graham Harman develops a theory of social objects based on his object-oriented ontology. Whereas some of the more mainstream theories in the humanities would dissolve such objects into their material constituents or their various effects on others, object-oriented social theory theorizes them as inert, resilient entities with a private reality that exceeds their components and actions. Harman’s theory focuses on what social entities are qua objects, and consequently says little about their specificity as social objects. A more complete social theory would also outline how human existence is to be understood in relation to a social world comprised of discrete and inert entities, as opposed to, for example, far more continuous material fields or networks of associations. We argue that an unexpected yet solid candidate for such an extension of object-oriented social theory already exists in Jean-Paul Sartre’s theory of practico-inert being and group formation. We first outline Harman’s and Sartre’s respective ontologies of social objects, and then discuss how their many complementarities make the latter a suitable extension of the former.
Quine, Davidson, Relative Essentialism and the Question of Being
Authors: Wheeler Samuel C.
Published: August 2018

Relative essentialism, the view that multiple objects about which there are distinct de re modal truths can occupy the same space at the same time, is a metaphysical view that dissolves a number of metaphysical issues. The present essay constructs and defends relative essentialism and argues that it is implicit in some of the ideas of W. V. Quine and Donald Davidson. Davidson’s published views about individuation and sameness can accommodate the common-sense insights about change and persistence of Aristotle and Kripke. Aristotle and Kripke have to give up unmediated direct reference resting on a unique correct articulation of reality into entities. Davidson has to acknowledge a distinction between descriptions giving accidental and those giving essential features of an object. Quine and Davidson were in a position to be a relative essentialist, but were over-impressed by supervenience. The relative essentialist view of beings developed from Quine and Davidson strongly suggests the Heideggerian distinction between beings and Being, and is the perspective from which analytic philosophy can engage that topic. Relative essentialism also connects analytic philosophy to Derrida’s thinking about differance.
Quantum Mechanics and an Ontology of Intersubjectivity: Perils and Promises
Authors: Pugliese Marc A.
Published: August 2018

Contemporary theology has realized the importance of integrating what we know from the “new physics”-quantum mechanics and relativity theory-into the metaphysical and ontological categories used by theology to consider God, the world, and the God-world relationship. The categories of subjectivity and relationality have risen to prominence in these discussions. Both academic and popular presentations can obscure the vital distinction between what physicists agree on concerning quantum mechanics and the contested interpretation of quantum mechanics, or what quantum mechanics reveals about reality. After (1) summarizing the significant distinction between quantum mechanics per se and the interpretations of quantum mechanics and (2) the agreed upon quantum mechanical experimental procedure and its attendant mathematical formalism, as well as a few of the foremost interpretations, this paper (3) attempts a minimalist culling of some rudimentary but clear ontological principles and categories from what is agreed upon in quantum mechanics, without appeals-tacit or explicit-to one of the many controversial interpretations or to contestable philosophical assumptions and deductions, and these are: experience, subjectivity, relationship, and event. The paper closes by (4) commending one speculative scheme that is especially conducive to developing an interpretation of quantum mechanics consonant with the ontological principles and categories so derived, that of Alfred North Whitehead
Exploring the consequences of human multitasking in industrial automation projects: a tool to mitigate impacts – Part II
Authors: Petroutsatou Kleopatra , Sifiniadis Anestis
Published: August 2018

Each industrial automation project includes tasks that strongly depend on human factors, many of which may belong to the critical path or chain of the project. Multitask­ing significantly affects human productivity. The reduction in productivity has a direct result of delaying the primary task, which may cause an overall delay to the project with cost and time overruns. A project should be seen with respect to a global environment, such as that of a company, where resources are shared among its portfolio of projects. Although multitask­ing might have negative results, it is something that cannot be eliminated but can be mitigated by project managers. This article presents the effects of multitasking on human productivity, especially when the tasks are complex, like programmable logic controller (PLC)/supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) software development. Using the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method, a simple tool is created to be used by project managers, in order to assist them in decision-making. Criteria that influence these decisions are referenced, and their priority vectors are proposed. In addition, some real examples are given. Project managers face a complex situation when they are asked to decide on the allocation of resources and priori­ties among different projects. Parameters that are difficult to predict in real situations may have a significant role in the decision-making process. There are a lot of published works based on AHP appli­cations in different fields, but there is a gap in the field of industrial automation projects and the related project manager’s decision-making. This study focuses on these decision-making processes that determine which tasks should be paused or not for a better allocation of resources, taking into account the global environment of a technical company. The tool can be implemented with changing criteria and priority vectors to adapt to different types of projects. Future research could identify additional criteria and subcriteria with dif­ferent priority vectors, depending on different project specifications. This article is the extended version (Part II) of CCC 2017 Procedia Engineering paper.
Effect of addition of silicone oil on the rheology of fumed silica and polyethylene glycol shear thickening suspension
Authors: Singh Mansi , Verma Sanjeev Kumar , Biswas Ipsita , Mehta Rajeev
Published: August 2018

Shear thickening fluids (STF) are stabilized and concentrated colloidal suspensions of hard nano-particles in a liquid medium (polymer) that, under the influence of impact forces, show non-Newtonian fluid behavior (shear thickening) dissipating the energy of impact. The viscosity of the dispersion medium should be optimum to lead to an increase in shear thickening, and at the same time, should also allow proper dispersion of the particles. Herein, an STF based on 20 wt% fractal nano-fumed silica particles of 11 nm suspended in a liquid medium of polyethylene glycol (PEG 200) with different concentrations of silicone oil was prepared. These systems were studied in terms of steady-state and dynamic-state rheological behavior under a wide range of temperature, shear rate, strain rate and frequency. The STF with replacement of up to only 20% of PEG with silicone oil as the liquid medium shows a large increase (about four times) in shear thickening parameters when compared with STF containing only PEG under the same processing conditions. It also shows more elastic behavior at high frequencies which are due to the high cross-linking property of silicone oil, contributing to much-improved properties, which are highly desirable from the view point of many applications.
Unconditional readings and the simple conditional tense in Spanish: inferentials, future-oriented intentionals, future-in-the-past
Authors: Rivero María Luisa , Arregui Ana
Published: August 2018

This paper offers a compositional interpretation of Spanish simple conditional morphology (cantaría‘would sing’) in independent sentences set within the semantic situations framework. It proposes that Spanish simple conditional morphology is composed of (a) a past component that encodes a topic situation, (b) a universal future operator with either an epistemic flavor or a temporal (i.e. historical) flavor /accessibility, and (c) a universal imperfective operator with a variety of flavors. Based on the interactions of these three components, the paper develops derivations for (1) past-oriented inferential readings that distinguish Spanish from French and Italian, (2) future-oriented conditionals involving past plans, which are apparently shared with French and Italian, and (3) future-in-the-past conditionals, where Spanish appears to resemble French and differs from Italian.
Synthesis and characterization of size- and shape-controlled silver nanoparticles
Authors: Mukherji Suparna , Bharti Sharda , Shukla Gauri , Mukherji Soumyo
Published: August 2018

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have application potential in diverse areas ranging from wound healing to catalysis and sensing. The possibility for optimizing the physical, chemical and optical properties for an application by tailoring the shape and size of silver nanoparticles has motived much research on methods for synthesis of size- and shape-controlled AgNPs. The shape and size of AgNPs are reported to vary depending on choice of the Ag precursor salt, reducing agent, stabilizing agent and on the synthesis technique used. This chapter provides a detailed review on various synthesis approaches that may be used for synthesis of AgNPs of desired size and shape. Silver nanoparticles may be synthesized using diverse routes, including, physical, chemical, photochemical, biological and microwave -based techniques. Synthesis of AgNPs of diverse shapes, such as, nanospheres, nanorods, nanobars, nanoprisms, decahedral nanoparticles and triangular bipyramids is also discussed for chemical-, photochemical- and microwave-based synthesis routes. The choice of chemicals used for reduction and stabilization of nanoparticles is found to influence their shape and size significantly. A discussion on the mechanism of synthesis of AgNPs through nucleation and growth processes is discussed for AgNPs of varying shape and sizes so as to provide an insight on the various synthesis routes. Techniques, such as, electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and crystallography that can be used for characterizing the AgNPs formed in terms of their shape, sizes, crystal structure and chemical composition are also discussed in this chapter.

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The development of a bioenergy-based green chemistry curriculum for high schools
Authors: Kohn Craig
Published: August 2018

The Next-Generation Science Standards represent a major shift from learning science content to preparing students to become scientifically literate through inquiry and investigation. This article summarizes the unique opportunities available to develop a biotechnology laboratory course on biofuels that heavily emphasizes scientific practices in a high-school agriscience department in Wisconsin. Through collaborations with universities, federal research facilities, and the surrounding community, students were able to engage in rigorous learning experiences in a sociocultural setting in a manner that maximized their preparation for college and sustainable careers. This example also highlights how effective science teacher professional development and collaboration can allow for improved instructional opportunities in science education while also enabling positive contributions to ongoing scientific research.
Punishment Severity and Crime: The Case of Arkansas
Authors: Barati Mehdi
Published: August 2018

This paper investigates the impact of a marginal change in punishment severity on the incidence of crime. I explore Arkansas’ (AR) milder punishment for theft, which was adopted in 2011 in order to deal with prison overcrowding. The decrease in punishment contributed to growing theft rates in AR, suggesting criminals respond to the reduced crime-specific punishment. The findings also indicate that the likely lower incarceration for theft did not lead to an increase in other types of crime.
Proportionale Bankenregulierung
Authors: Horsch Andreas , Kleinow Jacob , Schiele Christian
Published: August 2018

Die krisengetriebene Re-Regulierung verursacht Transaktionskosten, die besonders für kleine und mittelgroße Kreditinstitute (KMU-Banken) erhebliche Belastungen darstellen. Vertreter der betroffenen Kreditinstitute, aber auch von Regulierungsinstitutionen, haben hierauf mit Vorschlägen für eine abgestufte, proportionale Bankenregulierung reagiert. Aufgrund des hohen Anteils kleiner Institute dürfte gerade der genossenschaftliche Bankensektor davon profitieren. Der nachfolgende Kurzbeitrag würdigt dahingehende Vorschläge.
„Gleichschaltung“ und „Arisierung“
Authors: Martens Holger
Published: August 2018

Nach der Machtübernahme der Nationalsozialisten wurden Spitzenfunktionen im Reichsverband der deutschen landwirtschaftlichen Genossenschaften – Raiffeisen e. V. mit NSDAP-Mitgliedern besetzt. Nach der vorübergehenden Integration in den Reichsnährstand erlangte der Reichsverband formal seine Selbständigkeit zurück. Die Raiffeisen-Organisationen beteiligten sich an der Aneignung jüdischen Eigentums. Obwohl 1945 stillgelegt, existierten die Raiffeisen-Vereine bis zur Verschmelzung in den Jahren 1997 und 2010 auf den 1948 in Westdeutschland neu gegründeten Deutschen Raiffeisenverband e. V. fort.
Bürgerhilfevereine, Sozialgenossenschaften „und Co“ in ländlichen Räumen als Partner der öffentlichen Daseinsvorsorge und Pflege
Authors: Solf-Leipold B. , Boos-Krüger A. , Henger E. , Schönberger C.
Published: August 2018

Zur Sicherung der Daseinsvorsorge und Pflege setzen politische Akteure verstärkt auf die Einbindung des bürgerschaftlichen Engagements in Versorgungsketten mit professionellen Akteuren. Der Beitrag systematisiert die Organisations- und Tätigkeitsformen freiwillig Engagierter im Bereich der Alltagshilfen für ältere Menschen in Form idealtypischer Modelle und diskutiert die Kompatibilität für die Kooperation mit der öffentlichen Daseinsvorsorge.
Neue Genossenschaftsmodelle für die Landwirtschaft von morgen
Authors: Stappel Michael
Published: August 2018

Spätestens wenn die geburtenstarken Jahrgänge in Ruhestand gehen, dürfte sich das „Höfesterben“ beschleunigen und die Betriebe immer größer werden. Langfristig droht der Abschied vom bäuerlichen Familienbetrieb, auf dessen Förderung Bezugs- und Absatzgenossenschaften ausgerichtet sind. Außerdem steigt die Gefahr von Nachfragemonopolen auf regionalen Märkten für Kauf oder Pacht landwirtschaftlicher Flächen. Darunter leiden die nicht mehr aktiven Landwirte. Dem könnten neue Genossenschaften begegnen, indem sie Marktgegengewichte bilden oder eine alternative Agrarproduktion bieten.
Unternehmerische Entscheidungen des Aufsichtsrats
Authors: Lieder Jan
Published: August 2018

Dass nicht nur der Vorstand, sondern auch der Aufsichtsrat im Rahmen seiner Organfunktionen unternehmerische Entscheidungen zu treffen hat, ist heute Allgemeingut. Welche Maßnahmen dem Aufsichtsrat aber im Einzelnen einen unternehmerischen Ermessensspielraum eröffnen, ist bisher nicht abschließend geklärt. Ungeklärt ist außerdem, was unter einer „sinngemäßen“ Anwendung des § 93 Abs. 1 Satz 2 AktG über die Verweisung des § 116 Satz 1 AktG zu verstehen ist – oder mit anderen Worten, welche Anforderungen an die angemessene Informationsgrundlage, an die Freiheit von Interessenkonflikten und ein Handeln zum Wohle der Gesellschaft mit spezifischem Blick auf den Aufsichtsrat zu verstehen ist. Diese Fragen stehen im Mittelpunkt der vorliegenden Untersuchung.
Wahlrechte und „Ermessensspielräume“ im Bilanzrecht und die Business Judgement Rule
Authors: Pöschke Moritz
Published: August 2018

Die Erstellung von Jahres- und Konzernabschlüssen geht über die reine Anwendung bilanzrechtlicher Vorschriften hinaus. Zwar ist auch „Bilanzierung“ Rechtsanwendung und jeder Buchungssatz lässt sich als das Ergebnis der Subsumtion eines Geschäftsvorfalls unter bilanzrechtliche Vorschriften verstehen. Aber das Bilanzrecht gewährt dem Bilanzierenden in weitem Umfang Wahlrechte sowie – meist als „Ermessensspielräume“ bezeichnete – Schätzungs- und Prognosespielräume. Die Geschäftsleiter einer Kapitalgesellschaft können diese Spielräume im Rahmen der bilanzrechtlichen Vorgaben nutzen, um die bilanzpolitischen Ziele der Gesellschaft zu verfolgen. Der folgende Beitrag untersucht, inwieweit ihnen dabei ein unternehmerischer Ermessensspielraum zusteht, der haftungsrechtlich durch die sog. Business Judgement Rule (§ 93 Abs. 1 Satz 2 AktG) privilegiert ist.
Die derivative Haftungsklage der Aktionäre – Deutsches und US-amerikanisches Recht –
Authors: Bezzenberger Tilman
Published: August 2018

Mit der derivativen Haftungsklage können Aktionäre seit 2005 unter besonderen Voraussetzun-gen Ersatzansprüche der Gesellschaft gegen Unternehmensleiter geltend machen (§ 148 AktG). In der Praxis aber hört man davon bislang so gut wie nichts. Das löst bei vielen Enttäuschung sowie Rufe nach einer Lockerung der Klagevoraussetzungen aus, ja mitunter sogar die Idee persönlicher finanzieller Klageanreize für Aktionäre, und führt zu neidischen Blicken auf das Recht der USA, wo Shareholder Derivative Actions verbreitet sind. Dem tritt der folgende Beitrag entgegen. Das deutsche Gesetz ist rechtssystematisch und rechtsökonomisch durchdacht, gerade auch im Vergleich zum US-amerikanischen Recht. Dessen Klageanreize entspringen entwicklungspfadabhängigen Besonderheiten, die sich nicht nach Deutschland und Europa übertragen lassen, in ihrem Kern auch keinen rechten Sinn ergeben und wirtschaftlich zu frag-würdigen Ergebnissen führen. Die derivative Haftungsklage der Aktionäre ist gar nicht dazu gemacht, in nennenswerter Stückzahl erhoben zu werden. Sie ist vielmehr im Wesentlichen ein innergesellschaftliches Druckmittel für große Minderheitsaktionäre, um die regulären Gesell-schaftsorgane zur Durchsetzung von Organhaftungsansprüchen zu aktivieren. Das ist schon viel, und damit muss man sich begnügen.
Die vereinsrechtliche Rechtsformkontrolle unter besonderer Berücksichtigung des § 43 BGB
Authors: Könen Daniel
Published: August 2018

In einer vielbesprochenen Entscheidung hatte sich der BGH jüngst mit der Eintragungsfähigkeit von wirtschaftlich tätigen Idealvereinen zu beschäftigen. Entgegen der bislang vertretenen h. M. hat der II. Zivilsenat entschieden, dass es insoweit nicht auf den Umfang der wirtschaftlichen Tätigkeit ankomme, solange diese dem ideellen Hauptzweck zu- und untergeordnet sowie Hilfsmittel dessen Erreichung sei. Indiziell könne die Anerkennung des Verbandes als gemeinnützig i. S. d. §§ 51 ff AO insoweit von entscheidender Bedeutung sein. Der Beitrag untersucht diesen Ansatz insbesondere mit Blick auf die normativ angelegte Rechtsformkontrolle sowie deren verfahrensmäßige Durchsetzbarkeit.
Significance of Long Noncoding RNAs in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Amirkhah Raheleh
Published: August 2018

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a heterogeneous class of RNAs with generally longer than 200 nucleotides. It has been proposed that LncRNAs as a piece of paracrine action would control cellular pluripotency, differentiation, maintenance and regulate tissue development, organogenesis and regeneration. Next generation sequencing (RNA-seq) has produced huge data about lncRNAs expression profile in different cell types and condition, but understanding the roles and functions of these novel lncRNAs is poorly understood.
MicroRNAs: Small Regulators of Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Momeni-Moghaddam Madjid , Yossefi Elnaz , Oladi Fatemeh
Published: August 2018

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small molecules that are involved in the regulation of cellular events. They can monitor protein production using a kind of gene expression inhibition called post transcriptional gene regulation. Nowadays a lot of them have been found in different kind of cellular process so they have a wide range of functions from common cell tasks to roles in the regulation of special functions including regeneration of damaged tissues. In recent years, there has been an increasing interest in the field of miRNAs. This paper will review the research conducted on the roles of miRNAs in stem cells and tissue/organ regeneration.
Stem Cells’ Future: Toward Organ Bioprinting
Authors: Omrani Jalal , Momeni-Moghaddam Madjid
Published: August 2018

Organ Bioprinting is a new approach in the field of regenerative medicine that try to make a whole intact functionally active organ from tissue specific cells. Providing such organs are very important because every year many patients need to organ transplantation but the number of donors are so limited. Organs made from different tissue with different kinds of cell types and for Organ Bioprinting first we need to provide these cell types. Currently, with regards to advances in stem cell biology specially invention of easy methods for isolation mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as one the appropriate cell type for regeneration purpose and also due to their unique properties including lack of immune-rejection in allograft, MSCs have gained attention for using in organ production. MSCs can isolate from many tissues of adults and differentiate in a targeted manner into cells of interest; provide a main material of tissue engineering triangle (i.e. cells, biomaterial and growth factors) for 3D bioprinting of human organs on a substrate. Printers have the ability of designing tissues and organs with fusing living tissue specific cells and extracellular matrix in layers to produce 3D biologically functional new organ. It is conceivable that in the near future, stem cells will play their predicted role; i.e. whole organ production.
Stem Cell Therapy for Neurodegenerative Diseases: Strategies for Regeneration against Degeneration
Authors: Mirahmadi Mahdi , Rezanejadbardaji Habib , Irfan-Maqsood Muhammad , Mokhtari Mohammad Javad , Naderi-Meshkin Hojjat
Published: August 2018

Neurodegeneration is a general term for the progressive loss of structure and/ or function of neurons, gives rise to dysfunction or death of neurons. Neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer´s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), Huntington’s disease (HD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), multiple sclerosis (MS), spinal cord injury (SCI) and brain ischemia (BI) occur as a result of neurodegenerative processes leading to different degrees of paralysis and loss of sensation and cognition in the patients. Unfortunately, no successful cure for neurodegenerative disorders has been developed so far, and most of the currently available pharmacological therapies are mainly palliative. In recent years, stem cells have provided a great opportunity to develop potentially powerful innovative strategies to cure neurodegenerative diseases. Stem cells transplantation is capable of restoring injured neuronal tissue by replacement of the damaged cells via using directly differentiated cells or by protecting of existing healthy neurons and glial cells from further damage, or by repairing through providing a conductive environment in favour of regeneration. Here we have brought together some of these examples, discuss possible therapeutic means using different types of stem cells, mainly adult stem cells (ASCs), to treat neurodegenerative diseases.
Toxicity of Five Local Anesthesia Drugs on Cells and Multipotent Stem Cells
Authors: Akhavan Rezayat Arash , Rahimi Hamid Reza , Joveini Atefe , Moghadam Shahrzad Maraghe , Soltani Ghasem , Khojasteh Mohammad Reza , Zirak Nahid
Published: August 2018

Objectives: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play an important role in treating damaged tissues, growing and developing body tissues. Nowadays, the injection of stem cells has been considered for therapeutic purposes. Some substances which can be effective in the success rate of treatment are injected with the stem cells in the stem cell therapy. Anesthetics are a group of them. Local anesthetics toxicity on tissues such as nerve, cartilage, muscle and tendon are well described in many studies. Studies show local anesthesia can be toxic for stem cells too, and induce MSCs apoptosis and necrosis As a result, repairing of tissue by stem cells can be in trouble in damaged tissue which exposure to LAs. According to this, it is important to find the appropriate LA which has the least toxic effect on stem cells. In this study, we have considered the effects of LA such as lidocaine, bupivacaine, ropivacaine and mepivacaine on MSCs. Literature review: Local anesthetics toxicity has been described on chondrocytes by several studies. In this study, we have tried to find the effects of these drugs on mesenchymal stem cells. We have arranged local anesthetics for toxic effects to MSCs from high to low. According to this arrangement bupivacaine is the first drug, after that there are mepivacaine, lidocaine and ropivacaine, respectively. This sequence can be true for increasing the cellular metabolism, adhesive cells adhesion and also cellular appendages. Conclusion: The studies have indicated that MSCs is more sensitive to local anesthetics in comparison with chondrocytes. In addition to type of LAs, exposure time and drug dose play an important role in damaging to the MSCs. In other word, LAs effects are dose-dependent and time-dependent. however, The studies consider lesser neurotoxicity and longer local anesthesia effect for bupivacaine in comparison with other LAs such as lidocaine but it is recommended to use drugs which are safer (such as ropivacaine) in procedures including stem cell therapy, prolonged anesthesia and tissues are repairing. Because bupivacaine has high toxicity effect on mesenchymal stem cells.