bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Magnesium in Neurological Disorders
Authors: Kirkland Anna E. , Sarlo Gabrielle L. , Holton Kathleen F.
Published: June 2018

Magnesium is well known for its diverse actions within the human body. From a neurological standpoint, magnesium plays an essential role in nerve transmission and neuromuscular conduction. It also functions in a protective role against excessive excitation that can lead to neuronal cell death (excitotoxicity), and has been implicated in multiple neurological disorders. Due to these important functions within the nervous system, magnesium is a mineral of intense interest for the potential prevention and treatment of neurological disorders. Current literature is reviewed for migraine, chronic pain, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and stroke, as well as the commonly comorbid conditions of anxiety and depression. Previous reviews and meta-analyses are used to set the scene for magnesium research across neurological conditions, while current research is reviewed in greater detail to update the literature and demonstrate the progress (or lack thereof) in the field. There is strong data to suggest a role for magnesium in migraine and depression, and emerging data to suggest a protective effect of magnesium for chronic pain, anxiety, and stroke. More research is needed on magnesium as an adjunct treatment in epilepsy, and to further clarify its role in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Overall, the mechanistic attributes of magnesium in neurological diseases connote the macromineral as a potential target for neurological disease prevention and treatment.
Targeting Histone Deacetylases with Natural and Synthetic Agents: An Emerging Anticancer Strategy
Authors: Singh Amit Kumar , Bishayee Anupam , Pandey Abhay K.
Published: June 2018

Cancer initiation and progression are the result of genetic and/or epigenetic alterations. Acetylation-mediated histone/non-histone protein modification plays an important role in the epigenetic regulation of gene expression. Histone modification is controlled by the balance between histone acetyltransferase and (HAT) and histone deacetylase (HDAC) enzymes. Imbalance between the activities of these two enzymes is associated with various forms of cancer. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) regulate the activity of HDACs and are being used in cancer treatment either alone or in combination with other chemotherapeutic drugs/radiotherapy. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has already approved four compounds, namely vorinostat, romidepsin, belinostat, and panobinostat, as HDACi for the treatment of cancer. Several other HDACi of natural and synthetic origin are under clinical trial for the evaluation of efficiency and side-effects. Natural compounds of plant, fungus, and actinomycetes origin, such as phenolics, polyketides, tetrapeptide, terpenoids, alkaloids, and hydoxamic acid, have been reported to show potential HDAC-inhibitory activity. Several HDACi of natural and dietary origin are butein, protocatechuic aldehyde, kaempferol (grapes, green tea, tomatoes, potatoes, and onions), resveratrol (grapes, red wine, blueberries and peanuts), sinapinic acid (wine and vinegar), diallyl disulfide (garlic), and zerumbone (ginger). HDACi exhibit their antitumor effect by the activation of cell cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis and autophagy, angiogenesis inhibition, increased reactive oxygen species generation causing oxidative stress, and mitotic cell death in cancer cells. This review summarizes the HDACs classification, their aberrant expression in cancerous tissue, structures, sources, and the anticancer mechanisms of HDACi, as well as HDACi that are either FDA-approved or under clinical trials.
Impact of First Meal Size during Prolonged Sitting on Postprandial Glycaemia in Individuals with Prediabetes: A Randomised, Crossover Study
Authors: Parr Evelyn B. , Devlin Brooke L. , Pinto Samuel K. , Dunstan David W. , Hawley John A.
Published: June 2018

We compared the impact of a high versus low energy intake first meal on glucose and insulin responses during prolonged sitting in individuals with prediabetes. Thirteen adults with overweight/obesity and prediabetes (mean ± SD age: 60 ± 6 years, BMI: 33 ± 4 kg/m2; 2 h OGTT: 8.9 ± 1.1 mmol/L) completed two randomised trials: 10 h uninterrupted sitting, incorporating three meals with matching macronutrient compositions but different energy distributions: High-Energy Breakfast (HE-BF; breakfast: 50%, lunch: 30%, dinner: 20% energy intake), Low-Energy Breakfast (LE-BF: 20%/30%/50% energy intake). Venous blood was sampled from 08:00–18:00 h for determination of plasma glucose and insulin concentrations, with 24 h continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). Total glucose area under the curve (AUC; +5.7 mmol/L/h, p = 0.019) and mean plasma glucose concentrations (+0.5 mmol/L, p = 0.014) were greater after HE-BF compared to LE-BF. In the HE-BF condition, compared to LE-BF, there was a greater incremental area under the curve (iAUC) for plasma glucose post-breakfast (+44 ± 59%, p = 0.007), but lower iAUC post-lunch (−55 ± 36%, p < 0.001). Total insulin AUC was greater (+480 mIU/mL/h, p < 0.01) after HE-BF compared to LE-BF. Twenty-four-hour (24 h) CGM revealed no differences in mean glucose and total AUC between conditions. Compared to a low-energy first meal, a high-energy first meal elicited exaggerated plasma insulin and glucose responses until lunch but had little effect on 24 h glycaemia. During periods of prolonged sitting, adults with prediabetes may have more beneficial postprandial insulin responses to a low-energy first meal.
Metal(II) Coordination Polymers Derived from Mixed 4-Imidazole Ligands and Carboxylates: Syntheses, Topological Structures, and Properties
Authors: Li Wei-Dong , Li Jia-Le , Guo Xing-Zhe , Zhang Zhi-You , Chen Shui-Sheng
Published: June 2018

Four new metal–organic coordination polymers [Cu(L)(mpa)]·3H2O (1), [Co(L)(mpa)]·H2O (2), [Zn(L)(mpa)]·H2O (3), and [Cd(L)(mpa)(H2O)]·H2O (4) were synthesized by reactions of the corresponding metal(II) salts based on mixed ligands of 1,4-di(1H-imidazol-4-yl)benzene (L) and 4-methylphthalic acid (H2mpa), respectively. The structures of the complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, FT-IR spectroscopy, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compound 1 exhibits a binodal 4-connected three dimensional (3D) architecture with (65·8)-CdSO4 topology, while complexes 2 and 3 are isostructural and have two-dimensional (2D) layer structure with (4, 4) sql topology based on the binuclear metal subunits. Complex 4 has the same 2D layer structure with (4, 4) sql topology as complexes 2 and 3, but the inclined interpenetration of parallel sets of layers result in the formation with 2D + 2D → 3D framework. The activated sample 1 shows selective CO2 uptake over N2. The photoluminiscent properties together with quantum yield (QY) and luminescence lifetime are also investigated for complexes 3 and 4 in the solid state at room temperature.
Surface Instability of Bilayer Hydrogel Subjected to Both Compression and Solvent Absorption
Authors: Zhou Zhiheng , Li Ying , Guo Tian Fu , Guo Xu , Tang Shan
Published: June 2018

The bilayered structure of hard thin film on soft substrate can lose stability and form specific patterns, such as wrinkles or creases, on the surface, induced by external stimuli. For bilayer hydrogels, the surface morphology caused by the instability is usually controlled by the solvent-induced swelling/shrinking and mechanical force. Here, two important issues on the instability of bilayer hydrogels, which were not considered in the previous studies, are focused on in this study. First, the upper layer of a hydrogel is not necessarily too thin. Thus we investigated how the thickness of the upper layer can affect the surface morphology of bilayer hydrogels under compression through both finite element (FE) simulation and theoretical analysis. Second, a hydrogel can absorb water molecules before the mechanical compression. The effect of the pre-absorption of water before the mechanical compression was studied through FE simulations and theoretical analysis. Our results show that when the thickness of the upper layer is very large, surface wrinkles can exist without transforming into period doublings. The pre-absorption of the water can result in folds or unexpected hierarchical wrinkles, which can be realized in experiments through further efforts.
Underwater Acoustic Pulsed Source Localization with a Pair of Hydrophones
Authors: Skarsoulis Emmanuel , Piperakis George , Kalogerakis Michael , Orfanakis Emmanuel , Papadakis Panagiotis , Dosso Stan. , Frantzis Alexandros
Published: June 2018

A series of underwater acoustic localization experiments were conducted in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea to test the performance of a Bayesian method for localization of pulsed acoustic sources exploiting time differences between direct and surface-reflected arrivals at two hydrophones of known depth. The experiments involved a controlled source (pinger) at various depths/ranges as well as vocalizing sperm whales encountered off southern Crete. The localization method provides primarily range and depth information. In addition, if the location of the hydrophones in the horizontal is known, horizontal localization can be performed as well, subject to left–right ambiguity; this was applied for whale localization. The localization results confirmed the anticipated behavior of range, depth, and bearing estimation errors, which, according to theory, depend mainly on the source azimuth. In particular, range and depth estimation errors are larger for source locations close to broadside to the array and smaller towards endfire, and they increase with range. Conversely, bearing estimation errors are larger close to endfire and smaller towards broadside. Localizations in this paper were performed to ranges of about 3.5 km. The limiting factors for localization to longer ranges were the loss of ability to resolve direct and surface-reflected arrivals as well as the self-noise of the hydrophones.
Exploring the Sensitivity of Sampling Density in Digital Mapping of Soil Organic Carbon and Its Application in Soil Sampling
Authors: Guo Long , Linderman Marc , Shi Tiezhu , Chen Yiyun , Duan Lijun , Zhang Haitao
Published: June 2018

The rapid monitoring and accurate estimation of dynamic changes in soil organic carbon (SOC) can make great efforts in understanding the global carbon cycle. Traditional field survey is the main approach to obtain soil data and measure SOC content. However, the limited number of soil samples and the sampling cost hinder the quality of digital soil mapping. This research aims to explore the sensitive of sampling density in digital soil mapping, and then design a suitable soil sampling plan based on a series of sampling indices. Headwall hyperspectral images (400–1700 nm) were used to estimate the SOC map by partial least squares regression (PLSR) and PLSR kriging (PLSRK). Three traditional soil sampling methods (random, grid, and Latin hypercube sampling) with 10 classes of sampling densities (6.26, 2.79, 1.57, 1.01, 0.69, 0.53, 0.39, 0.30, 0.26, and 0.20 ha−1) were designed. The R2, root mean square error (RMSE) and ratio of standard deviation to RMSE (RPD) were used to evaluate the prediction accuracy in digital soil mapping by ordinary kriging. Three new indices, namely, the ratio of sampling efficiency to performance (RSEP), the density of soil samples index and the comprehensive evaluation index of prediction accuracy, were used to select a suitable soil sampling plan. Results showed that (1) the prediction accuracy of PLSRK (RPD = 2.00) was higher by approximately 11.73% than that of PLSR (RPD = 1.79), and the hyperspectral images provided an actual referential SOC map for the study of soil sampling; (2) the grid sampling plan performed better than the random and Latin hypercube sampling methods, and the quality of SOC map improves with the increase of the sampling density, and (3) the computer simulation and field verification indicated that RSEP is one feasible index in designing a suitable soil sampling plan.
A Novel Strategy for Improving the Aeromagnetic Compensation Performance of Helicopters
Authors: Chen Luzhao , Wu Peilin , Zhu Wanhua , Feng Yongqiang , Fang Guangyou
Published: June 2018

An aeromagnetic survey is an important method in magnetic anomaly detection and geophysical prospecting. The magnetic field is typically measured by optically pumped magnetometers (OPM) installed on the aircraft. The measurement accuracy of the OPM is easily affected by the platform-generated magnetic fields. Therefore, aeromagnetic compensation is necessary. The traditional compensation model only considers the permanent, induced, and eddy current interference magnetic field of the aircraft platform. However, the interference field produced by the avionics system, and the relative motion between the aircraft and the magnetometer, are still not taken into account. To address this issue, we proposed a novel strategy to eliminate the additional interference of the platform with two OPMs. Among them, the OPM located farther away from the aircraft serves as a sensing magnetometer, whereas the near OPM serves as a reference magnetometer. The coherent noise suppression method is used to process the residual magnetic field interference after compensation. By establishing the interference magnetic transfer function between the two sensors, the interference field can be suppressed. The results of the experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the novel strategy, and the standard deviation of residual interference drops from 0.065 nT to 0.045 nT.
A Self-Organizing Spatial Clustering Approach to Support Large-Scale Network RTK Systems
Authors: Shen Lili , Guo Jiming , Wang Lei
Published: June 2018

The network real-time kinematic (RTK) technique can provide centimeter-level real time positioning solutions and play a key role in geo-spatial infrastructure. With ever-increasing popularity, network RTK systems will face issues in the support of large numbers of concurrent users. In the past, high-precision positioning services were oriented towards professionals and only supported a few concurrent users. Currently, precise positioning provides a spatial foundation for artificial intelligence (AI), and countless smart devices (autonomous cars, unmanned aerial-vehicles (UAVs), robotic equipment, etc.) require precise positioning services. Therefore, the development of approaches to support large-scale network RTK systems is urgent. In this study, we proposed a self-organizing spatial clustering (SOSC) approach which automatically clusters online users to reduce the computational load on the network RTK system server side. The experimental results indicate that both the SOSC algorithm and the grid algorithm can reduce the computational load efficiently, while the SOSC algorithm gives a more elastic and adaptive clustering solution with different datasets. The SOSC algorithm determines the cluster number and the mean distance to cluster center (MDTCC) according to the data set, while the grid approaches are all predefined. The side-effects of clustering algorithms on the user side are analyzed with real global navigation satellite system (GNSS) data sets. The experimental results indicate that 10 km can be safely used as the cluster radius threshold for the SOSC algorithm without significantly reducing the positioning precision and reliability on the user side.
Virtual Deformable Image Sensors: Towards to a General Framework for Image Sensors with Flexible Grids and Forms
Authors: Wen Wei , Khatibi Siamak
Published: June 2018

Our vision system has a combination of different sensor arrangements from hexagonal to elliptical ones. Inspired from this variation in type of arrangements we propose a general framework by which it becomes feasible to create virtual deformable sensor arrangements. In the framework for a certain sensor arrangement a configuration of three optional variables are used which includes the structure of arrangement, the pixel form and the gap factor. We show that the histogram of gradient orientations of a certain sensor arrangement has a specific distribution (called ANCHOR) which is obtained by using at least two generated images of the configuration. The results showed that ANCHORs change their patterns by the change of arrangement structure. In this relation pixel size changes have 10-fold more impact on ANCHORs than gap factor changes. A set of 23 images; randomly chosen from a database of 1805 images, are used in the evaluation where each image generates twenty-five different images based on the sensor configuration. The robustness of ANCHORs properties is verified by computing ANCHORs for totally 575 images with different sensor configurations. We believe by using the framework and ANCHOR it becomes feasible to plan a sensor arrangement in the relation to a specific application and its requirements where the sensor arrangement can be planed even as combination of different ANCHORs.
One-Step Laser Patterned Highly Uniform Reduced Graphene Oxide Thin Films for Circuit-Enabled Tattoo and Flexible Humidity Sensor Application
Authors: Park Rowoon , Kim Hyesu , Lone Saifullah , Jeon Sangheon , Kwon Young Woo , Shin Bosung , Hong Suck Won
Published: June 2018

The conversion of graphene oxide (GO) into reduced graphene oxide (rGO) is imperative for the electronic device applications of graphene-based materials. Efficient and cost-effective fabrication of highly uniform GO films and the successive reduction into rGO on a large area is still a cumbersome task through conventional protocols. Improved film casting of GO sheets on a polymeric substrate with quick and green reduction processes has a potential that may establish a path to the practical flexible electronics. Herein, we report a facile deposition process of GO on flexible polymer substrates to create highly uniform thin films over a large area by a flow-enabled self-assembly approach. The self-assembly of GO sheets was successfully performed by dragging the trapped solution of GO in confined geometry, which consisted of an upper stationary blade and a lower moving substrate on a motorized translational stage. The prepared GO thin films could be selectively reduced and facilitated from the simple laser direct writing process for programmable circuit printing with the desired configuration and less sample damage due to the non-contact mode operation without the use of photolithography, toxic chemistry, or high-temperature reduction methods. Furthermore, two different modes of the laser operating system for the reduction of GO films turned out to be valuable for the construction of novel graphene-based high-throughput electrical circuit boards compatible with integrating electronic module chips and flexible humidity sensors.
Perception and Attitudes of Local People on Sustainable Cultural Tourism on the Islands: The Case of Nicosia
Authors: Yeniasır Mustafa , Gökbulut Burak
Published: June 2018

Today, for the sake of gaining tourism revenues, culture, nature and historical values are being ignored especially in island countries. As a result, tourism activities in the country decelerate and even vanish in time. According to the current tourism understanding, tourists are curious about the historical and cultural structure, which reflects the spirit of the region, and plan their travels accordingly. In this sense, it is essential that sustainable cultural tourism policies are determined by people-government-civil society cooperatively. One of the first steps of this action is to determine the opinions and attitudes of local people on sustainable cultural tourism. In this paper, Nicosia, the capital city of Cyprus, was chosen as the research area and a survey was conducted with 100 people living in this area in order to measure their perception and attitudes on sustainable cultural tourism and preservation of cultural heritage. SPSS 24.0 statistical package program was used in analyzing the obtained data. Frequency, percentage and chi-square calculations were made. Based on the results of the study, it can be claimed that an environment should be created where people of Nicosia would participate in tourism activities and some plans should be made to realize such an environment.
Co-Creation Dynamics in Urban Living Labs
Authors: Puerari Emma , De Koning Jotte I. J. C. , Von Wirth Timo , Karré Philip M. , Mulder Ingrid J. , Loorbach Derk A.
Published: June 2018

Citizens and urban policy makers are experimenting with collaborative ways to tackle wicked urban issues, such as today’s sustainability challenges. In this article, we consider one particular way of collaboration in an experimental setting: Urban Living Labs (ULLs). ULLs are understood as spatially embedded sites for the co-creation of knowledge and solutions by conducting local experiments. As such, ULLs are supposed to offer an arena for reflexive, adaptive, and multi-actor learning environments, where new practices of self-organization and novel (infra-) structures can be tested within their real-world context. Yet, it remains understudied how the co-creation of knowledge and practices actually takes place within ULLs, and how co-creation unfolds their impacts. Hence, this paper focuses on co-creation dynamics in urban living labs, its associated learning and knowledge generation, and how these possibly contribute to urban sustainability transitions. We analyzed empirical data from a series of in-depth interviews and were actively involved with ULLs in the Rotterdam-The Hague region in the Netherlands. Our findings show five distinct types of co-creation elements that relate to specific dynamics of participation, facilitation, and organization. We conclude with a discussion on the ambivalent role of contextualized knowledge and the implications for sustainability transitions.
Montenegro on the Path to Paris MoU Accession: Towards Achieving a Sustainable Shipping Industry
Authors: Nikcevic Jelena
Published: June 2018

In order to ensure the sustainability of the shipping industry and marine ecosystem of Montenegro, it is necessary that Montenegro becomes a full member of the Paris Memorandum of Understanding (Paris MoU) on Port State Control. The reasons for doing so are numerous: the full adoption of standards stipulated by the Memorandum in relation to ship control; continuously keeping pace with, and development of, new standards in compliance with turbulent changes in the maritime industry and operation (including the increasing scope of maritime transport); the decrease in the number of detained ships which meet the requirements stipulated in international Conventions and the elimination of substandard ships in perspective; and the prevention of environmental pollution, and sea and port incidents. This justified endeavour is supported by the fact that Montenegro is one of two countries in Europe that are not full members of the Paris MoU. Additionally, in this context it is necessary to emphasise the fact that the marine ecosystem of Montenegro is an integral part of the world ocean. Accordingly, the improvement of the quality of national legislation which is compliant with international requirements is an imperative which has positive implications on regional and global sustainability.
Economic–Environmental Sustainability in Building Projects: Introducing Risk and Uncertainty in LCCE and LCCA
Authors: Fregonara Elena , Ferrando Diego Giuseppe , Pattono Sara
Published: June 2018

The aim of this paper is to propose a methodology for supporting decision-making in the design stages of new buildings or in the retrofitting of existing heritages. The focus is on the evaluation of economic–environmental sustainability, considering the presence of risk and uncertainty. An application of risk analysis in conjunction with Life-Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA) is proposed for selecting the preferable solution between technological options, which represents a recent and poorly explored context of analysis. It is assumed that there is a presence of uncertainty in cost estimating, in terms of the Life-Cycle Cost Estimates (LCCEs) and uncertainty in the technical performance of the life-cycle cost analysis. According to the probability analysis, which was solved through stochastic simulation and the Monte Carlo Method (MCM), risk and uncertainty are modeled as stochastic variables or as “stochastic relevant cost drivers”. Coherently, the economic–financial and energy–environmental sustainability is analyzed through the calculation of a conjoint “economic–environmental indicator”, in terms of the stochastic global cost. A case study of the multifunctional building glass façade project in Northern Italy is proposed. The application demonstrates that introducing flexibility into the input data and the duration of the service lives of components and the economic and environmental behavior of alternative scenarios can lead to opposite results compared to a deterministic analysis. The results give full evidence of the environmental variables’ capacity to significantly perturb the model output.
Diel Variations in Cell Abundance and Trophic Transfer of Diarrheic Toxins during a Massive Dinophysis Bloom in Southern Brazil
Authors: Alves Thiago Pereira , Mafra Luiz Laureno
Published: June 2018

Dinophysis spp. are a major source of diarrheic toxins to marine food webs, especially during blooms. This study documented the occurrence, in late May 2016, of a massive toxic bloom of the Dinophysis acuminata complex along the southern coast of Brazil, associated with an episode of marked salinity stratification. The study tracked the daily vertical distribution of Dinophysis spp. cells and their ciliate prey, Mesodinium cf. rubrum, and quantified the amount of lipophilic toxins present in seston and accumulated by various marine organisms in the food web. The abundance of the D. acuminata complex reached 43 × 104 cells·L−1 at 1.0 m depth at the peak of the bloom. Maximum cell densities of cryptophyceans and M. cf. rubrum (>500 × 104 and 18 × 104 cell·L−1, respectively) were recorded on the first day of sampling, one week before the peak in abundance of the D. acuminata complex. The diarrheic toxin okadaic acid (OA) was the only toxin detected during the bloom, attaining unprecedented, high concentrations of up to 829 µg·L−1 in seston, and 143 ± 93 pg·cell−1 in individually picked cells of the D. acuminata complex. Suspension-feeders such as the mussel, Perna perna, and barnacle, Megabalanus tintinnabulum, accumulated maximum OA levels (up to 578.4 and 21.9 µg total OA·Kg−1, respectively) during early bloom stages, whereas predators and detritivores such as Caprellidae amphipods (154.6 µg·Kg−1), Stramonita haemastoma gastropods (111.6 µg·Kg−1), Pilumnus spinosissimus crabs (33.4 µg·Kg−1) and a commercially important species of shrimp, Xiphopenaeus kroyeri (7.2 µg·Kg−1), only incorporated OA from mid- to late bloom stages. Conjugated forms of OA were dominant (>70%) in most organisms, except in blenny fish, Hypleurochilus fissicornis, and polychaetes, Pseudonereis palpata (up to 59.3 and 164.6 µg total OA·Kg−1, respectively), which contained mostly free-OA throughout the bloom. Although algal toxins are only regulated in bivalves during toxic blooms in most countries, including Brazil, this study indicates that human seafood consumers might be exposed to moderate toxin levels from a variety of other vectors during intense toxic outbreaks.
Nanomedicine and Phage Capsids
Authors: Serwer Philip , Wright Elena T.
Published: June 2018

Studies of phage capsids have at least three potential interfaces with nanomedicine. First, investigation of phage capsid states potentially will provide therapies targeted to similar states of pathogenic viruses. Recently detected, altered radius-states of phage T3 capsids include those probably related to intermediate states of DNA injection and DNA packaging (dynamic states). We discuss and test the idea that some T3 dynamic states include extensive α-sheet in subunits of the capsid’s shell. Second, dynamic states of pathogenic viral capsids are possible targets of innate immune systems. Specifically, α-sheet-rich innate immune proteins would interfere with dynamic viral states via inter-α-sheet co-assembly. A possible cause of neurodegenerative diseases is excessive activity of these innate immune proteins. Third, some phage capsids appear to have characteristics useful for improved drug delivery vehicles (DDVs). These characteristics include stability, uniformity and a gate-like sub-structure. Gating by DDVs is needed for (1) drug-loading only with gate opened; (2) closed gate-DDV migration through circulatory systems (no drug leakage-generated toxicity); and (3) drug release only at targets. A gate-like sub-structure is the connector ring of double-stranded DNA phage capsids. Targeting to tumors of phage capsid-DDVs can possibly be achieved via the enhanced permeability and retention effect.
The Political Economy of Tourism: Children's Neglected Role
Authors: Bakas Fiona Eva
Published: June 2018

Addressing the theme of tourism as a social force, this article approaches a subject upon which limited research has been undertaken: children's role as economic actors in tourism. As the concept of children as economic actors comes into antithesis with UN models of childhood
as a care-free time, family business literature illustrates how children often do take on economic roles. Based on empirical research conducted in Crete, Greece in 2012, the ways in which the political economy of tourism shapes and is shaped by children's roles as economic actors is explored.
A feminist economics angle is adopted, viewing productive and social reproductive elements as of equal importance for representations of the economic reality. Participant observation over a 3-month period and 14 ethnographic interviews with tourism microentrepreneurs who make handicrafts primarily
for sale as souvenirs inform this article. Thematic analysis highlights how tourism's intense and seasonal nature accentuates cultural expectations and economic pressures, bringing about a metamorphosis in children's roles. Although when they are very young, children themselves constitute
a major social reproduction task, when they are older, they have a significant input into the political economy of tourism as they transform into replacement entrepreneurs and domestic helpers during the busy peak season. Investigating how children's economic roles are seasonally formed and
the effect children's economic activities have on their parents' gendered entrepreneurial roles, this article provides an exciting insight into children's roles within tourism labor.
Critical Tourism Studies and The World: Sense, Praxis, and the Politics of Creation
Authors: Doering Adam , Zhang Jundan (Jasmine)
Published: June 2018

Over the past decade Critical Tourism Studies (CTS) has endeavored to create a better "tourism world" while also drawing attention to tourism's "worldmaking" force. However, the question of "the world" itself has escaped the critical lens of CTS. Reading Jean-Luc Nancy's philosophy
of the world alongside Jia Zhangke's 2004 film The World, this article aims to develop an open and emergent sense of the world for CTS to consider. We do this in four parts. First, we introduce Nancy's "sense of the world" as always already in creation through our immanent relations
with one another. Secondly, the relationship between world, creation, and praxis is addressed. Through a close reading of the emancipatory praxis and critical pedagogy common to CTS, we question the underlying assumption that the world comes into creation only when it is named, represented,
and negotiated. Thirdly, we speculate on how an alternative "praxis" might unfold once this reconsidered sense of the world is taken into account. With the help of an exemplary long take scene in The World we detail three key features that give texture to Nancy's idea of the world
as praxis: relationality, exposure, and spacing. We conclude by returning to the end of the film, or its "opening," in an effort to open up unfamiliar routes to reinvigorate the critical and creative agenda that underpins CTS.
The Ethics of Excellence in Tourism Research: A Reflexive Analysis and Implications for Early Career Researchers
Authors: Khoo-Lattimore Catheryn
Published: June 2018

Set against the framework of today's competitive research environment, this article focuses on a less discussed category of ethics within tourism: that of the researcher as a professional. "Data" are presented as reflexive considerations on the ethical challenges and dilemmas an early
career researcher faced during her transition from the early to mid-career phase. Personal experiences are compared to a multidisciplinary literature on ethics, education, knowledge production, and distribution. This article concludes that it is possible for early career researchers in the
current tourism academic climate to remain ethical and successful at the same time—if they engage constantly and reflexively with the ethical questions that surround their own identity, power, and responsibility as academics. The article also asks that the tourism research community and institutional structures place more emphasis on the discussion of ethics and codes of conduct.
A Comprehensive Review of the North American Hotel Industry: An Application of the Value Chain Model
Authors: Sun Sunny , Law Rob , Schuckert Markus
Published: June 2018

This study provides an update on the North American hotel industry. It adopts content analysis by analyzing retrieved articles according to the adjusted Porter's value chain model. Major findings showed that most of the previous studies merely investigated one or two topics within the
value chain model, and the connections between different types of activities have been largely ignored. Findings on the methodology revealed that nearly 80% of the retrieved articles used primary sources, and more than 85% of these articles applied quantitative data analysis. Future studies
should analyze the value chain in its entirety and investigate the relationships among different topics (i.e., interdisciplinary research). Hotel managers may consider the value chain in its entirety and not merely its separate components to facilitate overall strategic decision making.
Effect of Terrorism and Travel Warning On Kenyan Tourism Demand
Authors: Masinde Brian , Buigut Steven
Published: June 2018

Security concerns especially from terrorism events and travel warnings against the country presents a challenge to the tourism industry in Kenya. This study applies the Arellano-Bond difference GMM model to analyze the effects of terrorism and travel warning on demand for tourism in
Kenya. Quarterly arrivals data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics from 22 source countries covering the period 2010q1 to 2015q4 are used. The study focuses on travel warnings by the UK and US. The results obtained show that terrorism events, represented by fatalities, significantly
reduce tourism demand. The adverse effect lasts at least through to the following quarter. Travel warnings also show a negative effect on tourist arrivals in the country. However, the evolution of its effect over time seems to depend on which country issued the warning. For a UK warning, the
bulk of the impact comes in the following quarter, while for a US travel warning the negative effect is mainly in the same quarter. The sector appears to recover more quickly from a US travel warning relative to a UK warning.
Josephson effect in junctions of conventional and topological superconductors
Authors: Zazunov Alex , Iks Albert , Alvarado Miguel , Levy Yeyati Alfredo , Egger Reinhold
Published: June 2018

We present a theoretical analysis of the equilibrium Josephson current-phase relation in hybrid devices made of conventional s-wave spin-singlet superconductors (S) and topological superconductor (TS) wires featuring Majorana end states. Using Green’s function techniques, the topological superconductor is alternatively described by the low-energy continuum limit of a Kitaev chain or by a more microscopic spinful nanowire model. We show that for the simplest S–TS tunnel junction, only the s-wave pairing correlations in a spinful TS nanowire model can generate a Josephson effect. The critical current is much smaller in the topological regime and exhibits a kink-like dependence on the Zeeman field along the wire. When a correlated quantum dot (QD) in the magnetic regime is present in the junction region, however, the Josephson current becomes finite also in the deep topological phase as shown for the cotunneling regime and by a mean-field analysis. Remarkably, we find that the S–QD–TS setup can support φ0-junction behavior, where a finite supercurrent flows at vanishing phase difference. Finally, we also address a multi-terminal S–TS–S geometry, where the TS wire acts as tunable parity switch on the Andreev bound states in a superconducting atomic contact.
Nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes coated with zinc oxide nanoparticles as sulfur encapsulator for high-performance lithium/sulfur batteries
Authors: Zhao Yan , Liu Zhengjun , Sun Liancheng , Zhang Yongguang , Feng Yuting , Wang Xin , Kurmanbayeva Indira , Bakenov Zhumabay
Published: June 2018

Nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes coated with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO@NCNT) were prepared via a sol–gel route as sulfur encapsulator for lithium/sulfur (Li/S) batteries. The electrochemical properties of the S/ZnO@NCNT composite cathode were evaluated in Li/S batteries. It delivered an initial capacity of 1032 mAh·g−1 at a charge/discharge rate of 0.2C and maintained a reversible capacity of 665 mAh·g−1 after 100 cycles. The coulombic efficiency of the cathode remains unchanged above 99%, showing stable cycling performance. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis confirmed the formation of S–Zn and S–O bonds in the composite. This indicates that an enhanced cycling and rate capability of the S/ZnO@NCNT composite could be ascribed to advantages of the ZnO@NCNT matrix. In the composite, the active ZnO-rich surfaces offer a high sulfur-bonding capability and the NCNT core acts as a conductive framework providing pathways for ion and electron transport. The as-prepared S/ZnO@NCNT composite is a promising cathode material for Li/S batteries.
Discovery of the Kinematic Alignment of Early-type Galaxies in the Virgo Cluster
Authors: Kim Suk , Jeong Hyunjin , Lee Jaehyun , Lee Youngdae , Joo Seok-Joo , Kim Hak-Sub , Rey Soo-Chang
Published: June 2018

Using the kinematic position angles (PAkin), an accurate indicator for the spin axis of a galaxy, obtained from the ATLAS3D integral-field-unit (IFU) spectroscopic data, we discovered that 57 Virgo early-type galaxies tend to prefer the specific PAkin values of 20° and 100°, suggesting that they are kinematically aligned with each other. These kinematic alignment angles are further associated with the directions of the two distinct axes of the Virgo cluster extending east–west and north–south, strongly suggesting that the two distinct axes are the filamentary structures within the cluster as a trace of infall patterns of galaxies. Given that the spin axis of a massive early-type galaxy does not change easily even in clusters from the hydrodynamic simulations, Virgo early-type galaxies are likely to fall into the cluster along the filamentary structures while maintaining their angular momentum. This implies that many early-type galaxies in clusters are formed in filaments via major mergers before subsequently falling into the cluster. Investigating the kinematic alignment in other clusters will allow us to understand the formation of galaxy clusters and early-type galaxies.
The revision of chromosome III (EF) mapping in Chironomus plumosus (Linnaeus, 1758) group (Diptera, Chironomidae)
Authors: Golygina Veronika V. , Kiknadze Iya I.
Published: June 2018

A revision of mapping of main and alternative banding sequences in chromosome III (EF) has been made for 14 species of the Chironomusplumosus group. In total, new versions of mapping are presented for 18 banding sequences of arm E and 18 banding sequences of arm F. A new way of tracing the origins of banding sequences in chromosome III of the Ch.plumosus group in comparison with basic banding sequences of the genus Chironomus is suggested. The presented data indicate that h’pluE2 in arm E and p’borF2 in arm F are the closest to banding sequences of Ch.piger Strenzke, 1959 and thus should be considered the most ancient among banding sequences of chromosome III in the Ch.plumosus group. Phylogenetic relationships of banding sequences of chromosome III are discussed.
A new species of Hyphessobrycon Durbin from northeastern Brazil: evidence from morphological data and DNA barcoding (Characiformes, Characidae)
Authors: Guimarães Erick Cristofore , De Brito Pâmella Silva , Feitosa Leonardo Manir , Carvalho-Costa Luís Fernando , Ottoni Felipe Polivanov
Published: June 2018

A new species ofHyphessobryconis described for the upper Munim and Preguiças river basins, northeastern Brazil, supported by morphological and molecular species delimitation methods. This new species belongs to theHyphessobryconsensu strictogroup, as it has the three main diagnostic character states of this assemblage: presence of a dark brown or black blotch on the dorsal fin, absence of a black midlateral stripe on its flank and the position of Weberian apparatus upward horizontal through dorsal margin of operculum. Our phylogenetic analysis also supported the allocation of the new species in this group; however, it was not possible to recover the species sister-group.PristellamaxillarisandMoenkhausiahemigrammoideswere recovered as the sister-clade of theHyphessobryconsensu strictogroup.
Habiter le travail
Authors: Reichhart Ada
Published: June 2018

Dans une Scop, les capacités d’agir des coopérateurs ne se trouvent pas uniquement dans des formes de résistance aux normes dont les défaillances ont tendance à les écarter de fait comme alternative valable, mais également dans « les multiples façons d’habiter les normes ». Le concept d’« habiter », renvoyant davantage aux pratiques et aux discours plutôt qu’aux règles et aux valeurs, permet d’ouvrir le champ d’interprétation de la dimension participative de la Scop. Cette approche conduit à réactualiser le projet démocratique de la Scop, en dessinant les contours d’une expérience de vie participative au travail qui s’inscrit dans l’idée de démocratie comme forme de vie.
Imanes Permanentes y su Producción por Pulvimetalurgia
Authors: Herraiz Lalana Enrique
Published: June 2018

En este estudio se ha revisado la relación histórica entre la pulvimetalurgia y los imanes permanentes. La pulvimetalurgia es una técnica de fabricación basada en la compactación de polvos que son sinterizados para crear un producto sólido. Esta técnica fue utilizada en la producción de imanes permanentes por primera vez en el siglo XVIII y, hoy en día, la mayoría de materiales magnéticos permanentes se fabrican de esta forma. Las propiedades magnéticas dependen de la microestructura del producto final, de la alineación de los dominios magnéticos y de la presencia de porosidad; y la pulvimetalurgia permite un control adecuado de estos factores.
Reducing discards in trammel net fisheries with simple modifications based on a guarding net and artificial light: contributing to marine biodiversity conservation
Authors: Martínez-Baños Pedro , Maynou Francesc
Published: June 2018

Experimental fishing trials with standard (control) and modified trammel nets were conducted to assess the possible reduction of discards. The standard trammel net was the commercial net used in the area (80 mm stretched mesh inner panel) targeting Sepia officinalis. This configuration produced 19% discards in weight. The modifications researched were of two kinds: a “guarding net” consisting of a 2.5-mesh-high (200 mm stretched mesh) net between the footrope and the trammel net and artificial lights of two colours (white or green) mounted on the floating ropes. Catches were identified, measured and categorized (commercial, discards and reason for discarding), and the different configurations were tested for statistical differences. Our results show that trammel net deployments with guarding net produce 32% higher catches of commercial species and as much as 95% higher catches of the target cuttlefish. Artificial lights produced a low but significant increase in total catches of commercial species of 13%, with no differences due to light colour. The amount of discards in deployments with guarding net was 6%, i.e. ca. 1/4 of the amount produced by the standard configuration. The effect of lights on discard reduction was not significant.
Exploring the effects of discarding using the Atlantis ecosystem model for Icelandic waters
Authors: Sturludottir Erla
Published: June 2018

Discarding fish has been a part of the fisheries for centuries but it has been very difficult to monitor how much is discarded, especially in areas where it is an illegal activity. In this study the ecological and economic effects of discarding were investigated using the Atlantis model for Icelandic waters. Five different scenarios were compared, using different discarding rates and selectivities. The results showed that a complete stop of discarding fish (cod and haddock) and landing everything instead had little ecological and economic impact. Improved selectivity, which would result in not catching the fish that would be discarded, had great beneficial economic effects. The increase in biomass led to higher landings, which consequently led to higher revenue. Also, the cost decreased with increasing biomass, which increased the profit of the fisheries. None of the five scenarios had great ecological effects but only discarding of cod and haddock, which have low discard rates, were considered in this study.
L'effet de la correction assistée par ordinateur (CAO) sur la construction des compétences orthographiques des apprenants de FLE en Algérie
Authors: Talbi Abdelmalek , Legros Denis
Published: June 2018

Les difficultés orthographiques des apprenants de FLE en Algérie sont dues principalement aux correspondances phonographiques non biunivoques de l'orthographe française. Les recherches montrent que les correcteurs permettent la détection des erreurs mais qu'il n'y a pas construction des connaissances orthographiques transférables. Le but de cette recherche est d'analyser les effets d'un correcticiel de nouvelle génération, le Robert correcteur, sur le développement des compétences orthographiques des apprenants en matière d'erreurs de phonogramme. Un échantillon de 20 étudiants de 1ère année de licence de français a été soumis à quatre tâches : dictée 1 (pré-test d'évaluation), 1er jet de correction (révision orthographique avec correcticiel), 2ème jet de correction (révision orthographique sans correcticiel) et dictée 2 (post-test d'évaluation). Les résultats montrent que l'utilisation guidée et orientée du correcticiel favorise la correction des erreurs de phonogramme et qu'elle améliore le transfert des compétences orthographiques1.
An atmospheric approach to the city-psychosis nexus. Perspectives for researching embodied urban experiences of people diagnosed with schizophrenia
Authors: Winz Marc
Published: June 2018

The aim of this paper is to ground an analysis of the city-psychosis nexus, and more precisely of the urban experience of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia in a theoretical framework built on the notion of affective atmosphere, as conceptualized in recent Anglo-American human geography and on the notion of ambiance, as conceptualized in research on architecture and urban studies in France. Drawing upon the confrontation of those concepts, the paper highlights the similarities of ambiance and affective atmospheres, before underlining their differences. It is argued that an atmospheric approach points out dimensions not sufficiently taken into account in research in psychopathology. Furthermore, the two concepts stress two different registers of experience: whereas ambiance puts emphasis on a perceptual, sensory and conscious level of experience of urban environment, affective atmosphere highlights a more pre-reflective, bodily dimension. Finally, the paper sketches out a methodological framework in coherence with this conceptual distinction.