bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Local/Global is your Brand?
Authors: Llonch-Andreu Joan , López-Lomelí Miguel ángel , Gómez-Villanueva Jorge Eduardo
Published: December 2016

This paper contends that the logical way to classify brands is to use a methodology based on consumer perceptions rather than academic/practitioner criteria, and that this may enable managers to more accurately define brand marketing strategies for current brands or relaunch efforts. It tests this theory using a quantitative instrument to assess consumer perceptions of local/global brand categorisation, with representative samples. Currently, most of the literature relating to the different typologies of brands (global, local, etc.) has been founded on academic/practitioner categorisations based on objective criteria. Consumers, on the other hand, do not know these categorisations based on objective criteria and may well see the brands differently. Existing research to categorise brands from the consumer's perspective has been conducted with qualitative techniques using small samples, meaning the results obtained are difficult to generalise. This paper relies on the results of an empirical research study based on a survey carried out among Mexican consumers using a new methodology that follows the suggested categorisation principles of Steenkamp and De Jong (2010). The results provide an actual categorisation of leading brands into ‘global’, ‘local’, ‘glocal’ and ‘functional’, based on consumers' perspectives, and reveal important differences in the categorisation of brands vs the traditional approaches found in the literature.
“He was neither a soldier nor a slave: he was under the control of no man”: Kahnawake Mohawks in the Northwest Fur Trade, 1790–1850
Authors: St-Onge Nicole
Published: December 2016

From 1790 to the 1850s hundreds of Kahnawake men signed fur trade contracts, part of a vast, Montreal-centred, salaried labour force that fuelled the peltry trade for two centuries. However, these Mohawks constituted more than simply a native subset of largely French Canadian voyageur brigades. Mohawks were coveted for their abilities as canoe men, ruthless talents as trappers, and their fearsome warrior reputation. Such martial qualities had special value during the “fur trade wars” of 1798–1804 and 1815–1821. These Kahnawake men pursued these contracts for economic and Mohawk-specific cultural reasons. For young Kahnawake men, difficult employment, distant from home and associated with potential violence, was a means to experience rites of passage from adolescence to manhood and to prove warrior qualities. Racialized white views and the need for Mohawks as woodsmen and warriors with fearsome reputations thus coincided with Mohawk views of their masculinity and the need for adventure and income.
From Strangers to “Humanity First”: Canadian Social Democracy and Immigration Policy, 1932–1961
Authors: Lacroix Patrick
Published: December 2016

Founded in 1932, Canada's Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (ccf) brought into a single movement disparate elements that, until then, had shown little inclination to cohere: intellectuals from Central Canada, Prairie farmers, politicized workers, many of them of non-British background, and clergy inspired by the Social Gospel. United during the Great Depression by their shared critique of capitalism, these groups stood more broadly for workers' rights and social justice, two preoccupations that would carry into the issue of immigration. This article explores the thought of J.S. Woodsworth, the intellectual climate on the political left, and the constituent parts of Canadian social democracy to discern major factors and trends in the formulation of ccf positions on immigration policy. It invites greater scholarly reflection on the relationship between economic nationalism, especially the protection of the domestic labour market, and an emergent civic nationalism in mid-twentieth-century Canada.
Secret Remedies and the Medical Needs of the French State: The Career of Adrien Helvétius, 1662–1727
Authors: Rivest Justin
Published: December 2016

This article explores the relation between proprietary drugs and state interests in early modern France by following the career of the medical entrepreneur Adrien Helvétius (1662–1727). Helvétius began as a private practitioner, but his successful remedy against dysentery and his access to the world of the French court enabled him to become a pharmaceutical monopolist and large-scale pharmaceutical contractor supplying the French army, and later, state-funded poor relief efforts. Rather than seeing his distribution system as an instance of proto-public health or a simple case of military “spinoff” into civilian medicine, I argue that his various roles are an outgrowth of “court capitalism” and that he tapped into existing infrastructures of military and charitable care to find a new market for his drugs. In this view, the state emerges as a bulk consumer purchasing drugs from a private entrepreneur, distributing them to civilian and military populations that do not have access to the urban medical marketplace.
L’organisation État islamique, est-elle une structure mafieuse ?
Authors: Martel Éric
Published: December 2016

Si l’on s’intéresse de près aux logiques de fonctionnement de l’organisation État islamique, l’on y verra des points communs avec des structures de type mafieux, qu’il s’agisse de mafias italiennes, russes ou chinoises. Il n’est donc pas impossible qu’un ensemble de contraintes similaires tende à aboutir au même type d’organisations. Cet article1 vise à comprendre l’apparition, le fonctionnement et l’évolution de l’organisation État islamique à travers une comparaison avec les mafias, des structures dont l’apparition remonte au 19e siècle.
Representation of Innovation in Seventeenth-Century England
Authors: Godin Benoît
Published: December 2016

Our present understanding of innovation is closely linked to science and research
on the one hand and economy and industry on the other. It has not
always been so. Back in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the concept
was mainly used in religious and political discourses. In these contexts, actors
used it in a pejorative sense. Innovation, imagined as a radical transformation,
was considered a peril to the established social order. Such was
natural philosophers’ understanding. This article documents Francis Bacon’s
work as an eminent example of such a representation. To Bacon, natural philosophy
and innovation are two distinct spheres of activity. It is documented
that Bacon’s uses of the concept of innovation are found mainly in political,
legal, and moral writings, not natural philosophy, because to Bacon and all
others of his time, innovation is poli tical.
Political Regeneration
Authors: Noronha de Sá Maria Elisa , Gantus Jasmin Marcelo
Published: December 2016

The article analyzes the concept of political regeneration as related to temporal
experiences in the processes of political emancipation and the forming
of the Brazilian nation. The authors analyze selected texts written by José
Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva, a leading politician and intellectual involved in
these processes. Such texts supply indications and symptoms that help us to
understand how two different historical experiences, designated respectively
by this author as the “political regeneration of the Portuguese Empire” and the
“political regeneration of the Brazilian nation,” became possible. The uses of
the concept of political regeneration in Bonifácio’s discourses may be grasped
as symptomatic of the very complex temporal experiences in the context of
the Portuguese language during the first decades of the nineteenth century
in Brazil.
A World in the Making
Authors: Fernández-Sebastián Javier
Published: December 2016

Th is article provides an outline of the crystallization of the concept of future
in the Iberian worlds in a period extending from the end of the eighteenth
century until the second half of the nineteenth century. By tracking and analyzing
the vocabularies referring to the three dimensions of time—past, present,
and future—in a broad corpus of documentary sources (books, journals,
memoirs, pamphlets, parliamentary minutes, and so on), and particularly
in the debates and speculation with regard to el porvenir, the article shows
that, not only in Spain and Portugal, but in much of Spanish- and Portuguese-
speaking America, the profound impact of progressive philosophies of
history on political and social discourse resulted in a clear politicization of
time, parallel to the temporalization of political concepts.
Registration of ‘FL Red’, a Later‐Maturing Tetraploid Annual Ryegrass
Authors: Kenworthy K. E. , Reith P. E. , Prine G. M. , Blount A. R. , Quesenberry K. H.
Published: December 2016

‘FL Red’(Reg. No. CV‐281, PI 678572) tetraploid annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) is a synthetic cultivar selected for later maturity and resistance to annual ryegrass crown rust caused by Puccinia coronata Corda and gray leaf spot caused by Pyricularia grisea Sacc. FL Red was synthesized originally in 2004 from equal quantities of ‘Jumbo’, MRF‐31, FL/NEX2002(new1)4XLR, FLX2003(BD)4XLRCT, Beefbuilder III, and BB‐MEX. Eight cycles of recurrent mass selection (2003–2004, 2004–2005, 2005–2006, 2006–2007, 2007–2008, 2008–2009, 2009–2010, and 2010–2011) for crown rust resistance, gray leaf spot resistance, and mid‐late seed maturity were completed at the Forage Research Unit in Gainesville, FL. FL Red dry matter total seasonal yields across the southeastern region of the United States for the 2010–2011, 2011–2012, 2012–2013, and 2013–2014 growing seasons (total of 12 location‐years) were not different from the top‐yielding entry at 8 of the 12 locations. At more southern locations (Gainesville and Marianna, FL, and Calhoun, Plains, and Tifton, GA), FL Red showed high yields in all 4 yr. Maturity ratings taken at Gainesville show that FL Red was among the later‐maturing tetraploid entries evaluated. Changes in maturity date can be both beneficial (in cool or dry spring years where summer perennial grass production is limited) or detrimental (late‐maturing annual ryegrasses may suppress and delay early summer grass production). FL Red had excellent levels of resistance to crown rust and moderate resistance to gray leafspot.
Registration of ‘VENUS’ Peanut
Authors: Chamberlin K. D. , Bennett R. S. , Damicone J. P.
Published: December 2016

VENUS (Reg. No. CV‐130, PI 675157) is a large‐seeded high‐oleic virginia‐type peanut (Arachis hypogaea L. subsp. hypogaea var. hypogaea) that has enhanced Sclerotinia blight and pod rot resistance when compared to the cultivar Jupiter. VENUS is the first high‐oleic virginia peanut developed for optimal performance in the southwestern United States, and it was released cooperatively by the USDA‐ARS and the Oklahoma Agricultural Experiment Station (OAES) in 2015. VENUS (experimental designation ARSOK‐V30B) is the result of a cross between the cultivar Jupiter, a non‐high‐oleic virginia peanut released by the OAES in 2000, and ARSOK‐R2, a high‐oleic advanced runner breeding line with resistance to Sclerotinia blight. Tests conducted at three locations across Oklahoma in 2012 to 2014 showed no significant difference between the yields of VENUS and Jupiter. However, VENUS graded significantly higher than Jupiter in two out of three locations. VENUS also has better resistance to Sclerotinia blight and pod rot (61 and 70% less disease, respectively) than Jupiter. Production of VENUS peanut in areas with high Sclerotinia blight and/or pod rot disease pressures will reduce the need for fungicide applications and result in increased profits for producers.
QTL for Water Use Related Traits in Juvenile Barley
Authors: Wehner Gwendolin , Balko Christiane , Ordon Frank
Published: December 2016

Water use efficiency (WUE) is a trait of prime interest in cases of drought stress because it provides information on biomass production in limited water conditions. In order to get information on WUE and additional water use related traits, i.e., dry weight (DW), fresh weight (FW), total leaf water (LW) and leaf water content (WC), greenhouse pot experiments were conducted on 156 barley genotypes (Hordeum vulgare L.) for control (70% maximal water capacity of soil) and drought stress conditions (20% of the maximal water capacity of soil). Significant correlations between WUE and the other water use related traits (r ≤ 0.65) were determined in juvenile barley, and genotypes suited for improving drought stress tolerance in early developmental stages were identified. Furthermore, based on the significant effects of genotypes and treatments, as well as their interaction, data were used for genome wide association studies (GWAS) resulting in the identification of 14 marker trait associations (MTAs) corresponding to four quantitative trait loci (QTL). For WUE, four MTAs were detected mostly located on barley chromosome 4H. For four MTAs, functional annotations related to the involvement in response to abiotic stress were found. These markers may be of special interest for breeding purposes in cases when they will be validated and also detected in later growth stages.
Potential of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) for Treating Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Authors: Fields Mark , Cai Hui , Gong Jie , Del Priore Lucian
Published: December 2016

The field of stem cell biology has rapidly evolved in the last few decades. In the area of regenerative medicine, clinical applications using stem cells hold the potential to be a powerful tool in the treatment of a wide variety of diseases, in particular, disorders of the eye. Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are promising technologies that can potentially provide an unlimited source of cells for cell replacement therapy in the treatment of retinal degenerative disorders such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Stargardt disease, and other disorders. ESCs and iPSCs have been used to generate retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and their functional behavior has been tested in vitro and in vivo in animal models. Additionally, iPSC-derived RPE cells provide an autologous source of cells for therapeutic use, as well as allow for novel approaches in disease modeling and drug development platforms. Clinical trials are currently testing the safety and efficacy of these cells in patients with AMD. In this review, the current status of iPSC disease modeling of AMD is discussed, as well as the challenges and potential of this technology as a viable option for cell replacement therapy in retinal degeneration.
Supply Chain Strategies for Quality Inspection under a Customer Return Policy: A Game Theoretical Approach
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Ekwall Daniel , Wang Lichuan
Published: December 2016

This paper outlines the quality inspection strategies in a supplier–buyer supply chain under a customer return policy. This paper primarily focuses on product quality and quality inspection techniques to maximize the actors’ and supply chain’s profits using game theory approach. The supplier–buyer setup is described in terms of textile manufacturer–retailer supply chain where quality inspection is an important aspect and the product return from the customer is generally accepted. Textile manufacturer produces the product, whereas, retailer acts as a reseller who buys the products from the textile manufacturer and sells them to the customers. In this context, the former invests in the product quality whereas the latter invests in the random quality inspection and traceability. The relationships between the textile manufacturer and the retailer are recognized as horizontal and vertical alliances and modeled using non-cooperative and cooperative games. The non-cooperative games are based on the Stackelberg and Nash equilibrium models. Further, bargaining and game change scenarios have been discussed to maximize the profit under different games. To understand the appropriateness of a strategic alliance, a computational study demonstrates textile manufacturer–retailer relation under different game scenarios.
Effect of Wind Turbine Blade Rotation on Triggering Lightning: An Experimental Study
Authors: Wen Xishan , Qu Lu , Wang Yu , Chen Xiaoyue , Lan Lei , Si Tianjun , Xu Jianwei
Published: December 2016

Compared with other lightning targets on the ground, the most notable feature of a wind turbine is that the blades are usually in a rotating state when lightning strikes. To study the mechanism of blade rotation influencing wind turbine on triggering lightning, lightning discharge comparison tests based on a typical 2-MW 1:30-scaled wind turbine model with an arching high-voltage electrode were conducted under different modes of stationary and rotating blades. Negative polarity switching impulses of 250/2500 μs were applied to the arching electrode. The up-and-down method was adopted for 50% discharge voltage and the discharge process was observed. The experimental results showed that under the condition of a 4 m gap, the breakdown voltage decreases and the connection point of the leaders approaches the high-voltage electrode with increasing blade speed, indicating that the wind turbine’s blade rotation enhances the triggering of lightning. The analysis showed that the blade rotation could be altering the charge distribution on the blade tip, resulting in varied ascending leader development on the blade tip, which affected the discharge development process.
Assessment of Renewable Sources for the Energy Consumption in Malta in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Franzitta Vincenzo , Curto Domenico , Milone Daniele , Rao Davide
Published: December 2016

The main purpose of this paper is to analyze the energy production in the Maltese islands, focusing on the employment of renewable energies in order to increase their energy independence. The main renewable source here proposed is wave energy: thanks to a strategic position, Malta will be able to produce electrical energy using an innovative type of Wave Energy Converter (WEC) based on the prototype of a linear generator realized by University of Palermo. The use of this new technology will be able to cut down the electrical energy production from traditional power plants and, consequently, the greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Wave energy source and off-shore photovoltaic (PV) technology are here proposed. Particularly, the installation of 12 wave farms, for a total installed capacity of 86 MW, will generate about 9.5% of Malta’s energy requirement in 2025, while the installation of 9.6 MW of off-shore PV will generate about 0.73%.
Male Parent Identification of Triploid Rubber Trees (Hevea brasiliensis) and the Mechanism of 2n Gametes Formation
Authors: Yao Peng-Qiang , Li Guo-Hua , Long Qing-Yi , He Li-Gang , Kang Xiang-Yang
Published: December 2016

Eight triploids were screened among offspring of the rubber tree clone GT1 × different clones by flow cytometry and chromosome counting. Twenty-five simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers were screened to identify the origin of 2n gametes, to determine the male parents of these triploids, and to evaluate the mechanism of 2n gamete formation using band configurations and microsatellite DNA allele counting peak ratios (MAC-PR). The results showed that 2n gametes originated from the maternal rubber tree clone GT1, contributing the extra genome copy present in the triploids. It was confirmed that GT1 is able to produce a 2n megagametophyte spontaneously. Many male parents were shown to provide pollen for formation of triploid rubber trees, including clones RRIC 103, Yunyan 277-5, and three other clones. The second division restitution (SDR) was likely the main mechanism involved in formation of megagametophytes in GT1, as the rate of maternal heterozygosity restitution (HR) of all eight triploids varied from 27.78% to 75.00%, with a mean of 51.46%, and all 25 markers varied from 0% to 100%, with a mean of 51.69%. Elucidation of the origin and formation of 2n gametes will help optimize further sexual hybridization of polyploid rubber trees.
Forest Restoration Using Variable Density Thinning: Lessons from Douglas-Fir Stands in Western Oregon
Authors: Puettmann Klaus , Ares Adrian , Burton Julia , Dodson Erich
Published: December 2016

A large research effort was initiated in the 1990s in western United States and Canada to investigate how the development of old-growth structures can be accelerated in young even-aged stands that regenerated following clearcut harvests, while also providing income and ecosystem services. Large-scale experiments were established to compare effects of thinning arrangements (e.g., spatial variability) and residual densities (including leave islands and gaps of various sizes). Treatment effects were context dependent, varying with initial conditions and spatial and temporal scales of measurement. The general trends were highly predictable, but most responses were spatially variable. Thus, accounting for initial conditions at neighborhood scales appears to be critical for efficient restoration. Different components of stand structure and composition responded uniquely to restoration thinnings. Achieving a wide range of structures and composition therefore requires the full suite of silvicultural treatments, from leave islands to variable density thinnings and creation of large gaps. Trade-offs among ecosystem services occurred as result of these contrasting responses, suggesting that foresters set priorities where and when different vegetation structures are most desirable within a stand or landscape. Finally, the results suggested that foresters should develop restoration approaches that include multiple treatments.
Probiotic Viability, Physicochemical and Sensory Properties of Probiotic Pineapple Juice
Authors: AdebayoTayo Bukola , Akpeji Stephanie
Published: December 2016

(1) Background: Probiotication is an important method in the food industry, and the use of probiotic dairy products has prevented lactose intolerant patients and vegetarians from their consumption. Hence, there is a need to incorporate probiotics in fruit juice without lactose; (2) Method: Probiotic viability, and physicochemical and sensory evaluation of stored probioticated pineapple juice using lactic acid bacteria (LAB) (Pediococcus pentosaceus LaG1, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Pediococcus pentosaceus LBF2) as a single and mixed starter was investigated; (3) Results: There was an increase in the lactic acid production, and reduction in pH, vitamin C content, and colour during storage. At weeks 3 and 4, Propp2 and Pcontrol samples had the highest lactic acid content (317.9 mg/L and 160.34 mg/L). The vitamin C content ranged from 2.91–7.10 mg/100 g. There was a general reduction in total soluble solids during storage. The probiotic LAB were viable throughout the storage time (1.05–1.10 × 109 cfu/mL) in the juice samples. There was no significant difference in terms of taste, aroma, colour, or appearance during the time of storage; (4) Conclusion: The pineapple juice supported the viability, lactic acid production, vitamin C development, and the antagonistic potential of the probiotic candidate. This result is useful for the development of probiotic fruit juice as functional foods and nutraceuticals with health beneficial effect.
Modeling Poker Challenges by Evolutionary Game Theory
Authors: Javarone Marco
Published: December 2016

We introduce a model for studying the evolutionary dynamics of Poker. Notably, despite its wide diffusion and the raised scientific interest around it, Poker still represents an open challenge. Recent attempts for uncovering its real nature, based on statistical physics, showed that Poker in some conditions can be considered as a skill game. In addition, preliminary investigations reported a neat difference between tournaments and ‘cash game’ challenges, i.e., between the two main configurations for playing Poker. Notably, these previous models analyzed populations composed of rational and irrational agents, identifying in the former those that play Poker by using a mathematical strategy, while in the latter those playing randomly. Remarkably, tournaments require very few rational agents to make Poker a skill game, while ‘cash game’ may require several rational agents for not being classified as gambling. In addition, when the agent interactions are based on the ‘cash game’ configuration, the population shows an interesting bistable behavior that deserves further attention. In the proposed model, we aim to study the evolutionary dynamics of Poker by using the framework of Evolutionary Game Theory, in order to get further insights on its nature, and for better clarifying those points that remained open in the previous works (as the mentioned bistable behavior). In particular, we analyze the dynamics of an agent population composed of rational and irrational agents, that modify their behavior driven by two possible mechanisms: self-evaluation of the gained payoff, and social imitation. Results allow to identify a relation between the mechanisms for updating the agents’ behavior and the final equilibrium of the population. Moreover, the proposed model provides further details on the bistable behavior observed in the ‘cash game’ configuration.
Network Formation with Endogenous Link Strength and Decreasing Returns to Investment
Authors: So Chiu
Published: December 2016

We study the formation of networks where agents choose how much to invest in each relationship. The benefit that an agent can derive from a network depends on the strength of the direct links between agents. We assume that the strength of the direct link between any pair of agents is a concave function of their investments towards each other. In comparison with some existing models of network formation where the strength technology is a convex function of investment, we find that (i) the symmetric complete network can dominate the star architecture in terms of total utility; (ii) a dominating symmetric complete network needs not be stable; and, (iii) star and complete networks can be dominated by small-world networks.
Emission Knots and Polarization Swings of Swinging Jets
Authors: Lyutikov Maxim , Kravchenko Evgeniya
Published: December 2016

Knots (emission features in jets of active galactic nuclei) often show non-ballistic dynamics and variable emission/polarization properties. We model these features as emission pattern propagating in a jet that carries a helical magnetic field and is launched along a changing direction. The model can reproduce a wide range of phenomena observed in the motion of knots: non-ballistic motion (both smooth and occasional sudden change of direction, and/or oscillatory behavior), variable brightness, and confinement of knots’ motion within an overlaying envelope. The model also reproduces smooth large polarization angle swings, and at the same time allows for the seemingly random behavior of synchrotron fluxes, polarization fraction, and occasional π / 2 polarization jumps.
The BASE-Program—A Multidimensional Approach for Health Promotion in Companies
Authors: Wollesen Bettina , Menzel Josefine , Lex Heiko , Mattes Klaus
Published: December 2016

Multidimensional assessments for conducting interventions are needed to achieve positive health effects within companies. BASE is an acronym, consisting of B = “Bedarfsbestimmung” (requirements); A = “Arbeitsplatzorganisation” (organisation of work); S = “Schulung des belastungsverträglichen Alltagshandelns” (coaching preventive behaviour at work); E = “Eigenverantwortung und Selbstwirksamkeit” (self-responsibility and self-efficacy). It is a prevention program designed to avoid and reduce work-related musculoskeletal diseases. It was developed to support prevention strategies within companies. It comprises aspects of health protection, ergonomics, exercise and self-efficacy. A comprehensive assessment will identify strain e.g., musculoskeletal discomforts due to body positions or psychological stress. Moreover, the general health status, preferences and barriers for participating in health promotion programs are evaluated. This analysis leads to practical and goal-oriented recommendations and interventions which suit the needs of companies and employees. These are executed onsite in real workplace situations and involve the introduction of first-hand experience in behavioural change. Therefore, this practical approach enhances the employees’ acceptance and self-efficacy for health promotion. This can result in long-term health promoting behaviour. This article presents the outcome and sustainability effects of BASE in three different application fields (logistic, industrial and office workers).
Australian Food Safety Policy Changes from a “Command and Control” to an “Outcomes-Based” Approach: Reflection on the Effectiveness of Its Implementation
Authors: Smith James , Ross Kirstin , Whiley Harriet
Published: December 2016

Foodborne illness is a global public health burden. Over the past decade in Australia, despite advances in microbiological detection and control methods, there has been an increase in the incidence of foodborne illness. Therefore improvements in the regulation and implementation of food safety policy are crucial for protecting public health. In 2000, Australia established a national food safety regulatory system, which included the adoption of a mandatory set of food safety standards. These were in line with international standards and moved away from a “command and control” regulatory approach to an “outcomes-based” approach using risk assessment. The aim was to achieve national consistency and reduce foodborne illness without unnecessarily burdening businesses. Evidence demonstrates that a risk based approach provides better protection for consumers; however, sixteen years after the adoption of the new approach, the rates of food borne illness are still increasing. Currently, food businesses are responsible for producing safe food and regulatory bodies are responsible for ensuring legislative controls are met. Therefore there is co-regulatory responsibility and liability and implementation strategies need to reflect this. This analysis explores the challenges facing food regulation in Australia and explores the rationale and evidence in support of this new regulatory approach.
A Global Inventory of Urban Corridors Based on Perceptions and Night-Time Light Imagery
Authors: Georg Isabel , Blaschke Thomas , Taubenböck Hannes
Published: December 2016

The massive growth of some urban areas has led to new constellations of urban forms. New concepts describing large urban areas have been introduced but are not always defined and mapped sufficiently and consistently. This article describes urban corridors as an example of such a concept with an ambiguous spatial definition. Based on the existing usage of the concept in scientific literature and the results of a questionnaire, we attempt to spatially parameterize and identify the main characteristics of urban corridors on a global scale. The parameters we use are physically measurable and therefore serve as a basis for a harmonized and scientifically sound mapping of urban corridors using remote sensing data and methods. Our results are presented in a global urban corridor map.
“Contextualized VGI” Creation and Management to Cope with Uncertainty and Imprecision
Authors: Bordogna Gloria , Frigerio Luca , Kliment Tomáš , Brivio Pietro , Hossard Laure , Manfron Giacinto , Sterlacchini Simone
Published: December 2016

This paper investigates the causes of imprecision of the observations and uncertainty of the authors who create Volunteer Geographic Information (VGI), i.e., georeferenced contents generated by volunteers when participating in some citizen science project. Specifically, various aspects of imprecision and uncertainty of VGI are outlined and, to cope with them, a knowledge-based approach is suggested based on the creation and management of “contextualized VGI”. A case study example in agriculture is reported where contextualized VGI can be created about in situ crops observations by the use of a smart app that supports volunteers by means of both an ontology and the representation of the context of the geo-localization. Furthermore, an approach to cope with both ill-defined knowledge and volunteer’s uncertainty or imprecise observations is defined based on a fuzzy ontology with uncertainty level-based approximate reasoning. By representing uncertainty and imprecision of VGI, users, i.e., consumers, can exploit quality checking mechanisms to filter VGI based on their needs.
Pathophysiological Significance of Store-Operated Calcium Entry in Megakaryocyte Function: Opening New Paths for Understanding the Role of Calcium in Thrombopoiesis
Authors: Di Buduo Christian , Balduini Alessandra , Moccia Francesco
Published: December 2016

Store-Operated Calcium Entry (SOCE) is a universal calcium (Ca2+) influx mechanism expressed by several different cell types. It is now known that Stromal Interaction Molecule (STIM), the Ca2+ sensor of the intracellular compartments, together with Orai and Transient Receptor Potential Canonical (TRPC), the subunits of Ca2+ permeable channels on the plasma membrane, cooperate in regulating multiple cellular functions as diverse as proliferation, differentiation, migration, gene expression, and many others, depending on the cell type. In particular, a growing body of evidences suggests that a tight control of SOCE expression and function is achieved by megakaryocytes along their route from hematopoietic stem cells to platelet production. This review attempts to provide an overview about the SOCE dynamics in megakaryocyte development, with a focus on most recent findings related to its involvement in physiological and pathological thrombopoiesis.
Hepatoprotective Effect of Cuscuta campestris Yunck. Whole Plant on Carbon Tetrachloride Induced Chronic Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Peng Wen-Huang , Chen Yi-Wen , Lee Meng-Shiou , Chang Wen-Te , Tsai Jen-Chieh , Lin Ying-Chih , Lin Ming-Kuem
Published: December 2016

Cuscuta seeds and whole plant have been used to nourish the liver and kidney. This study was aimed to investigate the hepatoprotective activity of the ethanol extract of Cuscuta campestris Yunck. whole plant (CCEtOH). The hepatoprotective effect of CCEtOH (20, 100 and 500 mg/kg) was evaluated on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced chronic liver injury. Serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, triglyceride and cholesterol were measured and the fibrosis was histologically examined. CCEtOH exhibited a significant inhibition of the increase of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, triglyceride and cholesterol. Histological analyses showed that fibrosis of liver induced by CCl4 were significantly reduced by CCEtOH. In addition, 20, 100 and 500 mg/kg of the extract decreased the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and enhanced the activities of anti-oxidative enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GRd) in the liver. We demonstrate that the hepatoprotective mechanisms of CCEtOH were likely to be associated to the decrease in MDA level by increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, GPx and GRd. In addition, our findings provide evidence that C. campestris Yunck. whole plant possesses a hepatoprotective activity to ameliorate chronic liver injury.
Fc-Binding Ligands of Immunoglobulin G: An Overview of High Affinity Proteins and Peptides
Authors: Choe Weonu , Durgannavar Trishaladevi , Chung Sang
Published: December 2016

The rapidly increasing application of antibodies has inspired the development of several novel methods to isolate and target antibodies using smart biomaterials that mimic the binding of Fc-receptors to antibodies. The Fc-binding domain of antibodies is the primary binding site for e.g., effector proteins and secondary antibodies, whereas antigens bind to the Fab region. Protein A, G, and L, surface proteins expressed by pathogenic bacteria, are well known to bind immunoglobulin and have been widely exploited in antibody purification strategies. Several difficulties are encountered when bacterial proteins are used in antibody research and application. One of the major obstacles hampering the use of bacterial proteins is sample contamination with trace amounts of these proteins, which can invoke an immune response in the host. Many research groups actively develop synthetic ligands that are able to selectively and strongly bind to antibodies. Among the reported ligands, peptides that bind to the Fc-domain of antibodies are attractive tools in antibody research. Besides their use as high affinity ligands in antibody purification chromatography, Fc-binding peptides are applied e.g., to localize antibodies on nanomaterials and to increase the half-life of proteins in serum. In this review, recent developments of Fc-binding peptides are presented and their binding characteristics and diverse applications are discussed.
Pore-Structure-Optimized CNT-Carbon Nanofibers from Starch for Rechargeable Lithium Batteries
Authors: Jeong Yongjin , Lee Kyuhong , Kim Kinam , Kim Sunghwan
Published: December 2016

Porous carbon materials are used for many electrochemical applications due to their outstanding properties. However, research on controlling the pore structure and analyzing the carbon structures is still necessary to achieve enhanced electrochemical properties. In this study, mesoporous carbon nanotube (CNT)-carbon nanofiber electrodes were developed by heat-treatment of electrospun starch with carbon nanotubes, and then applied as a binder-free electrochemical electrode for a lithium-ion battery. Using the unique lamellar structure of starch, mesoporous CNT-carbon nanofibers were prepared and their pore structures were controlled by manipulating the heat-treatment conditions. The activation process greatly increased the volume of micropores and mesopores of carbon nanofibers by etching carbons with CO2 gas, and the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) specific area increased to about 982.4 m2·g−1. The activated CNT-carbon nanofibers exhibited a high specific capacity (743 mAh·g−1) and good cycle performance (510 mAh·g−1 after 30 cycles) due to their larger specific surface area. This condition presents many adsorption sites of lithium ions, and higher electrical conductivity, compared with carbon nanofibers without CNT. The research suggests that by controlling the heat-treatment conditions and activation process, the pore structure of the carbon nanofibers made from starch could be tuned to provide the conditions needed for various applications.
Enhanced Photovoltaic Properties of Bulk Heterojunction Organic Photovoltaic Devices by an Addition of a Low Band Gap Conjugated Polymer
Authors: Lee Eui , Choi Min , Moon Doo
Published: December 2016

In this study, we fabricated organic photovoltaics (OPVs) by introducing the polymer additive HTh6BT into the photoactive layer of a poly(3-hexylthiophene):phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester (P3HT:PCBM) system. The HTh6BT had a relatively low band gap energy of 1.65 eV and a molecular and crystalline structure similar to that of P3HT. In the photoactive layer, the HTh6BT and P3HT can both act as donors. In such parallel-type bulk heterojunctions, each donor can form excitons and generate charges while being separated from the donor/acceptor interface. Changes in the photovoltaic property of the OPV device by the addition of HTh6BT were evaluated, and the optical characteristics of the photoactive layer, as well as the surface morphology, polymer ordering, and crystallinity of the P3HT:PCBM film were analyzed. Compared to a device without HTh6BT, all short-circuit current densities, open-circuit voltages, and fill factors were enhanced, leading to the enhancement of the power conversion efficiency by 36%.
Study Protocol for a Randomized Double Blind, Treatment Control Trial Comparing the Efficacy of a Micronutrient Formula to a Single Vitamin Supplement in the Treatment of Premenstrual Syndrome
Authors: Retallick-Brown Hannah , Rucklidge Julia , Blampied Neville
Published: December 2016

Background: The recent addition of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (5th ed.) has highlighted the seriousness of this disorder. Many alternatives to psychoactive medication in the form of vitamins, minerals, and plant extracts have been trialled by women seeking a natural treatment approach. We plan to explore whether a well validated micronutrient formula, EMPowerplus Advanced, can outperform a recognized single nutrient treatment, vitamin B6, for the treatment of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). Methods: This will be a randomized treatment control study. Eighty women will be recruited and assigned to one of two treatment groups; EMPowerplus Advanced or vitamin B6. Baseline daily data will be collected for an initial two cycles, followed by three months of active treatment. A natural follow up will take place three cycles post treatment. Results: The primary outcome measure will be PMS change scores as based on results from the Daily Record of Severity of Problems (DRSP). The number of treatment responders for each of the two groups will yield a comparison score between the two treatments, with participants deemed as a responder if they show a total PMS score improvement of 50% from their baseline scores on the DRSP. Conclusion: If a micronutrient formula proves more effective for treating PMS, not only does it give women suffering from the condition a viable treatment option, but it may also suggest one cause of PMS; that is insufficient minerals and vitamins.
Subcritical Butane Extraction of Wheat Germ Oil and Its Deacidification by Molecular Distillation
Authors: Li Jinwei , Sun Dewei , Qian Lige , Liu Yuanfa
Published: December 2016

Extraction and deacidification are important stages for wheat germ oil (WGO) production. Crude WGO was extracted using subcritical butane extraction (SBE) and compared with traditional solvent extraction (SE) and supercritical carbon dioxide extraction (SCE) based on the yield, chemical index and fatty acid profile. Furthermore, the effects of the molecular distillation temperature on the quality of WGO were also investigated in this study. Results indicated that WGO extracted by SBE has a higher yield of 9.10% and better quality; at the same time, its fatty acid composition has no significant difference compared with that of SE and SCE. The molecular distillation experiment showed that the acid value, peroxide value and p-anisidine value of WGO were reduced with the increase of the evaporation temperatures, and the contents of the active constituents of tocopherol, polyphenols and phytosterols are simultaneously decreased. Generally, the distillation temperature of 150 °C is an appropriate condition for WGO deacidification with the higher deacidification efficiency of 77.78% and the higher retention rate of active constituents.
Synthesis and Determination of Physicochemical Properties of New 3-(4-Arylpiperazin-1-yl)-2-hydroxypropyl 4-Alkoxyethoxybenzoates
Authors: Marvanova Pavlina , Padrtova Tereza , Odehnalova Klara , Hosik Ondrej , Oravec Michal , Mokry Petr
Published: December 2016

Nine new dihydrochloride salts of 3-(4-arylpiperazin-1-yl)-2-hydroxypropyl 4-alkoxyethoxybenzoates were designed and synthesized. The physicochemical properties such as lipophilicity index (log kw) and dissociation constant (pKa) were experimentally determined and compared to the software calculated data. The lipophilicity index was determined by means of reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC). The pKa values were determined by means of capillary zone electrophoresis. The “drug-likeness” properties according to the Lipinski Rule of Five and prediction of possible blood–brain barrier penetration were computed and discussed.
The Sweetener-Sensing Mechanisms of the Ghrelin Cell
Authors: Steensels Sandra , Vancleef Laurien , Depoortere Inge
Published: December 2016

Carbohydrate administration decreases plasma levels of the ‘hunger hormone’ ghrelin. The ghrelin cell is co-localized with the sweet taste receptor subunit, TAS1R3, and the gustatory G-protein, gustducin, both involved in the sensing of sweeteners by entero-endocrine cells. This study investigated the role of gustducin-mediated sweet taste receptor signaling on ghrelin secretion in a gastric ghrelinoma cell line, tissue segments and mice. The monosaccharide d-glucose and low-intensity sweetener oligofructose (OFS) decreased (p < 0.001) ghrelin secretion while the high-intensity sweetener sucralose increased (p < 0.001) ghrelin secretion in vitro. These effects were not mediated via the sweet taste receptor or glucose transporters (the sodium-dependent glucose cotransporter SGLT-1 and GLUT2). The effect of these compounds was mimicked ex vivo in gastric and jejunal segments from both wild type (WT) and α-gustducin knockout (α-gust−/−) mice. In vivo, the sensing of d-glucose was polarized since intragastric but not intravenous administration of d-glucose decreased (p < 0.05) ghrelin levels in an α-gustducin independent manner which involved inhibition of duodenal ghrelin release. In contrast, neither OFS nor sucralose affected ghrelin secretion in vivo. In conclusion, α-gustducin-mediated sweet taste receptor signaling does not play a functional role in the sensing of carbohydrates, or low- or high-intensity sweeteners by the ghrelin cell.
Harnessing the Computational Power of Fluids for Optimization of Collective Decision Making
Authors: Kim Song-Ju , Naruse Makoto , Aono Masashi
Published: December 2016

How can we harness nature’s power for computations? Our society comprises a collection of individuals, each of whom handles decision-making tasks that are abstracted as computational problems of finding the most profitable option from a set of options that stochastically provide rewards. Society is expected to maximize the total rewards, while the individuals compete for common rewards. Such collective decision making is formulated as the “competitive multi-armed bandit problem (CBP).” Herein, we demonstrate an analog computing device that uses numerous fluids in coupled cylinders to efficiently solve CBP for the maximization of social rewards, without paying the conventionally-required huge computational cost. The fluids estimate the reward probabilities of the options for the exploitation of past knowledge, and generate random fluctuations for the exploration of new knowledge for which the utilization of the fluid-derived fluctuations is more advantageous than applying artificial fluctuations. The fluid-derived fluctuations, which require exponentially-many combinatorial efforts when they are emulated using conventional digital computers, would exhibit their maximal computational power when tackling classes of problems that are more complex than CBP. Extending the current configuration of the device would trigger further studies related to harnessing the huge computational power of natural phenomena to solve a wide variety of complex societal problems.
Multi-Scale Simulation for Transient Absorption Spectroscopy under Intense Few-Cycle Pulse Laser
Authors: Otobe Tomohito
Published: December 2016

Numerical pump-probe simulations for the sub-cycle transient spectroscopy of thin film diamond under intense few cycle pulse laser field is reported. The electron dynamics is calculated by the time-dependent Kohn-Sham equation. Simultaneously, the propagation of electromagnetic field is calculated by the Maxwell equation. Our result shows that the modulation of the reflectivity, transmission, and absorption around the optical gap do not coincide with the field amplitude of the pump laser. The phase shift of the modulation with respect to the pump field depends on the pump intensity and probe frequency. The modulation of the reflectivity is sensitive to the choice of the exchange-correlation potential, and dynamical effect of the mean-field in meta-GGA potential.