bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sulfiredoxin May Promote Cervical Cancer Metastasis via Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Lan Kangyun , Zhao Yuni , Fan Yue , Ma Binbin , Yang Shanshan , Liu Qin , Linghu Hua , Wang Hui
Published: April 2017

The abnormal elevation of sulfiredoxin (Srx/SRXN1)—an antioxidant enzyme whose main function is to protect against oxidative stress—has been shown to be closely correlated with the progression of several types of cancer, including human cervical cancer. However, the molecular mechanism by which Srx promotes tumor progression, especially cancer metastasis in cervical cancer, has not been elucidated. Here, we show that Srx expression gradually increases during the progression of human cervical cancer and its expression level is closely correlated with lymph node metastasis. Our study also reveals a significant positive correlation between the expression of Srx and β-catenin in cervical cancer tissues. Loss-of-function studies demonstrate that Srx knockdown using a lentiviral vector-mediated specific shRNA decreases the migration and invasion capacity in HeLa (human papilloma virus 18 type cervical cancer cell line) and SiHa SiHa (cervical squamous cancer cell line). Notably, the exact opposite effects were observed in gain-of-function experiments in C-33A cells. Mechanistically, downregulation or upregulation of Srx leads to an altered expression of proteins associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Furthermore, blockage of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway contributed to attenuated Srx expression and resulted in significant inhibition of cell migration and invasion in cervical cancer cell lines. Combined, Srx might be an oncoprotein in cervical cancer, playing critical roles in activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway; it may therefore be a therapeutic target for cervical cancer.
Regulation of G Protein-Coupled Receptors by Ubiquitination
Authors: Skieterska Kamila , Rondou Pieter , Van Craenenbroeck Kathleen
Published: April 2017

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) comprise the largest family of membrane receptors that control many cellular processes and consequently often serve as drug targets. These receptors undergo a strict regulation by mechanisms such as internalization and desensitization, which are strongly influenced by posttranslational modifications. Ubiquitination is a posttranslational modification with a broad range of functions that is currently gaining increased appreciation as a regulator of GPCR activity. The role of ubiquitination in directing GPCRs for lysosomal degradation has already been well-established. Furthermore, this modification can also play a role in targeting membrane and endoplasmic reticulum-associated receptors to the proteasome. Most recently, ubiquitination was also shown to be involved in GPCR signaling. In this review, we present current knowledge on the molecular basis of GPCR regulation by ubiquitination, and highlight the importance of E3 ubiquitin ligases, deubiquitinating enzymes and β-arrestins. Finally, we discuss classical and newly-discovered functions of ubiquitination in controlling GPCR activity.
Hot Streak Evolution in an Axial HP Turbine Stage
Authors: Gaetani Paolo , Persico Giacomo
Published: April 2017

This paper presents the results of an experimental study on the evolution of hot streaks generated by gas turbine burners in an un-cooled high-pressure turbine stage. The prescribed hot streaks were directed streamwise and characterized by a 20% over-temperature with respect to the main flow at the stage inlet. The hot streak was injected in four different circumferential positions with respect to the stator blade. Detailed temperature and aerodynamic measurements upstream and downstream of the stage, as well as in-between the blade rows, were performed. Measurements showed a severe temperature attenuation of the hot streaks within the stator cascade; some influence on the aerodynamic field was found, especially on the vorticity field, while the temperature pattern resulted in severe alteration depending on the injection position. Downstream of the rotor, the jet spread over the pitch above the midspan and was more concentrated at the hub. Rotor secondary flows were also enhanced by hot streaks.
Crystallographic Characterization on Polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga Alloys with Strong Preferred Orientation
Authors: Li Zongbin , Yang Bo , Zou Naifu , Zhang Yudong , Esling Claude , Gan Weimin , Zhao Xiang , Zuo Liang
Published: April 2017

Heusler type Ni-Mn-Ga ferromagnetic shape memory alloys can demonstrate excellent magnetic shape memory effect in single crystals. However, such effect in polycrystalline alloys is greatly weakened due to the random distribution of crystallographic orientation. Microstructure optimization and texture control are of great significance and challenge to improve the functional behaviors of polycrystalline alloys. In this paper, we summarize our recent progress on the microstructure control in polycrystalline Ni-Mn-Ga alloys in the form of bulk alloys, melt-spun ribbons and thin films, based on the detailed crystallographic characterizations through neutron diffraction, X-ray diffraction and electron backscatter diffraction. The presented results are expected to offer some guidelines for the microstructure modification and functional performance control of ferromagnetic shape memory alloys.
High-Pressure Spark Plasma Sintering (HP SPS): A Promising and Reliable Method for Preparing Ti–Al–Si Alloys
Authors: Knaislová Anna , Novák Pavel , Cygan Sławomir , Jaworska Lucyna , Cabibbo Marcello
Published: April 2017

Ti–Al–Si alloys are prospective material for high-temperature applications. Due to low density, good mechanical properties, and oxidation resistance, these intermetallic alloys can be used in the aerospace and automobile industries. Ti–Al–Si alloys were prepared by powder metallurgy using reactive sintering, milling, and spark plasma sintering. One of the novel SPS techniques is high-pressure spark plasma sintering (HP SPS), which was tested in this work and applied to a Ti–10Al–20Si intermetallic alloy using a pressure of 6 GPa and temperatures ranging from 1318 K (1045 °C) to 1597 K (1324 °C). The low-porosity consolidated samples consist of Ti5Si3 silicides in an aluminide (TiAl) matrix. The hardness varied between 720 and 892 HV 5.
The Effect of Thermal Fluctuation on the Receptor-Mediated Adhesion of a Cell Membrane to an Elastic Substrate
Authors: Marzban Bahador , Yuan Hongyan
Published: April 2017

Mechanics of the bilayer membrane play an important role in many biological and bioengineering problems such as cell–substrate and cell–nanomaterial interactions. In this work, we study the effect of thermal fluctuation and the substrate elasticity on the cell membrane–substrate adhesion. We model the adhesion of a fluctuating membrane on an elastic substrate as a two-step reaction comprised of the out-of-plane membrane fluctuation and the receptor–ligand binding. The equilibrium closed bond ratio as a function of substrate rigidity was computed by developing a coupled Fourier space Brownian dynamics and Monte Carlo method. The simulation results show that there exists a crossover value of the substrate rigidity at which the closed bond ratio is maximal.
Lattice Softening in Fe3Pt Exhibiting Three Types of Martensitic Transformations
Authors: Fukuda Takashi , Kakeshita Tomoyuki
Published: April 2017

We have investigated the relation between the softening of elastic constants and martensitic transformation in Fe3Pt, which exhibits various kinds of martensitic transformation depending on its long-range order parameter S. The martensite phases of the examined alloys are BCT (S = 0.57), FCT1 (S = 0.75, c/a < 1) and FCT2 (S = 0.88, c/a > 1). The elastic constants C′ and C44 of these alloys decrease almost linearly with decreasing temperature. Although the temperature coefficient of C′ decreases as S increases, C′ at the transformation temperature is the smallest in the alloy with S = 0.75, which transforms to FCT1. This result implies that softening is most strongly related to the formation of the FCT1 martensite with tetragonality c/a < 1 among the three martensites.
Innovative “Green” and Novel Strategies for the Extraction of Bioactive Added Value Compounds from Citrus Wastes—A Review
Authors: Putnik Predrag , Bursać Kovačević Danijela , Režek Jambrak Anet , Barba Francisco , Cravotto Giancarlo , Binello Arianna , Lorenzo Jose , Shpigelman Avi
Published: April 2017

Citrus is a major processed crop that results in large quantities of wastes and by-products rich in various bioactive compounds such as pectins, water soluble and insoluble antioxidants and essential oils. While some of those wastes are currently valorised by various technologies (yet most are discarded or used for feed), effective, non-toxic and profitable extraction strategies could further significantly promote the valorisation and provide both increased profits and high quality bioactives. The present review will describe and summarize the latest works concerning novel and greener methods for valorisation of citrus by-products. The outcomes and effectiveness of those technologies such as microwaves, ultrasound, pulsed electric fields and high pressure is compared both to conventional valorisation technologies and between the novel technologies themselves in order to highlight the advantages and potential scalability of these so-called “enabling technologies”. In many cases the reported novel technologies can enable a valorisation extraction process that is “greener” compared to the conventional technique due to a lower energy consumption and reduced utilization of toxic solvents.
Evanescently Coupled Rectangular Microresonators in Silicon-on-Insulator with High Q-Values: Experimental Characterization
Authors: Mendez-Astudillo Manuel , Okayama Hideaki , Nakajima Hirochika
Published: April 2017

We report on evanescently coupled rectangular microresonators with dimensions up to 20 × 10 μm2 in silicon-on-insulator in an add-drop filter configuration. The influence of the geometrical parameters of the device was experimentally characterized and a high Q value of 13,000 was demonstrated as well as the multimode optical resonance characteristics in the drop port. We also show a 95% energy transfer between ports when the device is operated in TM-polarization and determine the full symmetry of the device by using an eight-port configuration, allowing the drop waveguide to be placed on any of its sides, providing a way to filter and route optical signals. We used the FDTD method to analyze the device and e-beam lithography and dry etching techniques for fabrication.
Aqueous Free-Radical Polymerization of Non-Ionized and Fully Ionized Methacrylic Acid
Authors: Fischer Eric , Storti Giuseppe , Cuccato Danilo
Published: April 2017

Water-soluble, carboxylic acid monomers are known to exhibit peculiar kinetics when polymerized in aqueous solution. Namely, their free-radical polymerization rate is affected by several parameters such as monomer concentration, ionic strength, and pH. Focusing on methacrylic acid (MAA), even though this monomer has been largely addressed, a systematic investigation of the effects of the above-mentioned parameters on its polymerization rate is missing, in particular in the fully ionized case. In this work, the kinetics of non-ionized and fully ionized MAA are characterized by in-situ nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Such accurate monitoring of the reaction rate enables the identification of relevant but substantially different effects of the monomer and electrolyte concentration on polymerization rate in the two ionization cases. For non-ionized MAA, the development of a kinetic model based on literature rate coefficients allows us to nicely simulate the experimental data of conversion versus time at a high monomer concentration. For fully ionized MAA, a novel propagation rate law accounting for the electrostatic interactions is proposed: the corresponding model is capable of predicting reasonably well the electrolyte concentration effect on polymerization rate. Nevertheless, further kinetic information in a wider range of monomer concentrations would be welcome to increase the reliability of the model predictions.
Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for Monitoring Recovery of Forest Vegetation on Petroleum Well Sites
Authors: Hird Jennifer , Montaghi Alessandro , McDermid Gregory , Kariyeva Jahan , Moorman Brian , Nielsen Scott , McIntosh Anne
Published: April 2017

Photogrammetric point clouds (PPCs) provide a source of three-dimensional (3-D) remote sensing data that is well-suited to use over small areas that are within the scope of observation by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). We compared PPC-based structural metrics to traditional ground surveys conducted by field personnel in order to assess the capacity of PPC data to contribute to vegetation-reclamation surveys. We found good statistical agreement between key structural vegetation parameters, such as mean and maximum vegetation height, with PPC metrics successfully predicting most height and tree-diameter metrics using multivariate linear regression. However, PPC metrics were not as useful for estimating ground-measured vegetation cover. We believe that part of the issue lies in the mismatch between PPC- and ground-based measurement approaches, including subjective judgement on behalf of ground crews: a topic that requires more investigation. Our work highlights the emerging value of UAV-based PPCs to complement, and in some cases supplement, traditional ground-based sources of measured vegetation structure.
A Low Cost UWB Based Solution for Direct Georeferencing UAV Photogrammetry
Authors: Masiero Andrea , Fissore Francesca , Vettore Antonio
Published: April 2017

Thanks to their flexibility and availability at reduced costs, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have been recently used on a wide range of applications and conditions. Among these, they can play an important role in monitoring critical events (e.g., disaster monitoring) when the presence of humans close to the scene shall be avoided for safety reasons, in precision farming and surveying. Despite the very large number of possible applications, their usage is mainly limited by the availability of the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) in the considered environment: indeed, GNSS is of fundamental importance in order to reduce positioning error derived by the drift of (low-cost) Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) internal sensors. In order to make the usage of UAVs possible even in critical environments (when GNSS is not available or not reliable, e.g., close to mountains or in city centers, close to high buildings), this paper considers the use of a low cost Ultra Wide-Band (UWB) system as the positioning method. Furthermore, assuming the use of a calibrated camera, UWB positioning is exploited to achieve metric reconstruction on a local coordinate system. Once the georeferenced position of at least three points (e.g., positions of three UWB devices) is known, then georeferencing can be obtained, as well. The proposed approach is validated on a specific case study, the reconstruction of the façade of a university building. Average error on 90 check points distributed over the building façade, obtained by georeferencing by means of the georeferenced positions of four UWB devices at fixed positions, is 0.29 m. For comparison, the average error obtained by using four ground control points is 0.18 m.
Multiplexed Electrochemical Immunosensors for Clinical Biomarkers
Authors: Yáñez-Sedeño Paloma , Campuzano Susana , Pingarrón José
Published: April 2017

Management and prognosis of disease requires the accurate determination of specific biomarkers indicative of normal or disease-related biological processes or responses to therapy. Moreover since multiple determinations of biomarkers have demonstrated to provide more accurate information than individual determinations to assist the clinician in prognosis and diagnosis, the detection of several clinical biomarkers by using the same analytical device hold enormous potential for early detection and personalized therapy and will simplify the diagnosis providing more information in less time. In this field, electrochemical immunosensors have demonstrated to offer interesting alternatives against conventional strategies due to their simplicity, fast response, low cost, high sensitivity and compatibility with multiplexed determination, microfabrication technology and decentralized determinations, features which made them very attractive for integration in point-of-care (POC) devices. Therefore, in this review, the relevance and current challenges of multiplexed determination of clinical biomarkers are briefly introduced, and an overview of the electrochemical immunosensing platforms developed so far for this purpose is given in order to demonstrate the great potential of these methodologies. After highlighting the main features of the selected examples, the unsolved challenges and future directions in this field are also briefly discussed.
A Wireless Sensor Network for Growth Environment Measurement and Multi-Band Optical Sensing to Diagnose Tree Vigor
Authors: Kameoka Shinichi , Isoda Shuhei , Hashimoto Atsushi , Ito Ryoei , Miyamoto Satoru , Wada Genki , Watanabe Naoki , Yamakami Takashi , Suzuki Ken , Kameoka Takaharu
Published: April 2017

We have tried to develop the guidance system for farmers to cultivate using various phenological indices. As the sensing part of this system, we deployed a new Wireless Sensor Network (WSN). This system uses the 920 MHz radio wave based on the Wireless Smart Utility Network that enables long-range wireless communication. In addition, the data acquired by the WSN were standardized for the advanced web service interoperability. By using these standardized data, we can create a web service that offers various kinds of phenological indices as secondary information to the farmers in the field. We have also established the field management system using thermal image, fluorescent and X-ray fluorescent methods, which enable the nondestructive, chemical-free, simple, and rapid measurement of fruits or trees. We can get the information about the transpiration of plants through a thermal image. The fluorescence sensor gives us information, such as nitrate balance index (NBI), that shows the nitrate balance inside the leaf, chlorophyll content, flavonol content and anthocyanin content. These methods allow one to quickly check the health of trees and find ways to improve the tree vigor of weak ones. Furthermore, the fluorescent x-ray sensor has the possibility to quantify the loss of minerals necessary for fruit growth.
Vibro-Shock Dynamics Analysis of a Tandem Low Frequency Resonator—High Frequency Piezoelectric Energy Harvester
Authors: Žižys Darius , Gaidys Rimvydas , Ostaševičius Vytautas , Narijauskaitė Birutė
Published: April 2017

Frequency up-conversion is a promising technique for energy harvesting in low frequency environments. In this approach, abundantly available environmental motion energy is absorbed by a Low Frequency Resonator (LFR) which transfers it to a high frequency Piezoelectric Vibration Energy Harvester (PVEH) via impact or magnetic coupling. As a result, a decaying alternating output signal is produced, that can later be collected using a battery or be transferred directly to the electric load. The paper reports an impact-coupled frequency up-converting tandem setup with different LFR to PVEH natural frequency ratios and varying contact point location along the length of the harvester. RMS power output of different frequency up-converting tandems with optimal resistive values was found from the transient analysis revealing a strong relation between power output and LFR-PVEH natural frequency ratio as well as impact point location. Simulations revealed that higher power output is obtained from a higher natural frequency ratio between LFR and PVEH, an increase of power output by one order of magnitude for a doubled natural frequency ratio and up to 150% difference in power output from different impact point locations. The theoretical results were experimentally verified.
Green Supplier Evaluation and Selection Using Cloud Model Theory and the QUALIFLEX Method
Authors: Wang Ke-Qin , Liu Hu-Chen , Liu Liping , Huang Jia
Published: April 2017

Nowadays, companies have to improve their practices in the management of green supply chain with increased awareness of environmental issues worldwide. Selecting the optimum green supplier is crucial for green supply chain management, which is a challenging multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) problem. Moreover, while evaluating the performance of alternative suppliers, decision makers tend to determine their assessments using linguistic descriptors due to experts’ vague knowledge and information deficiency. Therefore, this paper develops an integrated MCDM model based on the cloud model and QUALIFLEX (qualitative flexible multiple criteria method) approach to assess the green performance of companies under economic and environmental criteria. For the introduced model, the linguistic terms, expressed in normal clouds, are utilized to assess alternatives against each selection criterion. A linear programming model is established to compute the weights of criteria with unknown or incompletely known weight information. An extended QUALIFLEX approach is proposed and used to select the most suitable green supplier. Finally, the proposed green supplier selection method is demonstrated by an empirical example of an auto manufacturer to confirm its rationality and effectiveness.
Evaluation of the Microbial Viability of Soil Samples from Maize Crops in Freeze-Storage under Different Management Conditions in a Semi-Arid Climate
Authors: Ramírez Manuel , Muñoz Ana , López-Piñeiro Antonio , Albarrán Ángel , Peña David , Nunes José , Gama José , Loures Luis
Published: April 2017

The effect of freeze-storage on culturable soil microorganism viability was determined for soil samples from three agricultural maize crop systems (under conventional management, direct seeding, and direct seeding with a cover crop). Most culturable soil bacteria were unaffected by the freeze-thaw stress or the prolonged freeze-storage, but the viability of mold and Bacillus mycoides populations decreased drastically after eight months of freeze-storage, limiting the process sustainability to this period. However, these changes did not significantly affect either the total microorganism biodiversity index or the biodiversity differences between treatment. Based on the available results, freeze-storage seems to be a sustainable process for up to eight months that can be allowed in analyses of culturable microbial population biodiversity.
Inside Out: Organizations as Service Systems Equipped with Relational Boundaries
Authors: Crespo Garrido María , Grimaldi Mara , Maione Gennaro , Vesci Massimiliano
Published: April 2017

Currently, literature on organizational boundaries is at the center of a heated debate, characterized by a shift from a transactional approach to a broader immaterial perspective centered on the concept of boundless organizations. However, the overestimation of the effects of contemporary dematerialization on business processes can lead to the progressive neglect of the existence of corporate borders. In light of this consideration, the present work aims at proposing a new type of criterion for defining organizational boundaries, halfway between the conception of the firm’s total openness and total closure. To this end, the authors envisage the use of a new interpretive logic defined as “relational”, resulting from the specification of the systemic view (and as the sum of the logic underlying the viable systems approach (VSA)). This approach views the definition of boundaries. Therefore, in the large and intricate scenery of the studies dedicated to organizational boundaries, this work contributes to a better understanding of border selection as an interactive and changeable process capable of pushing organizations towards a greater awareness of their strategic dimension. This paper also offers some insights for future research, suggesting that both scholars and professionals investigate, firstly, new frontiers for the identification of organizational boundaries and, secondly, the possible positive repercussions that new organizational redesign modes could determine for a greater competitive success.
Dynamics of Water Vapor Content around Isolated Sprinklers: Description and Validation of Model
Authors: Jiao Jian , Su Derong , Wang Yadong
Published: April 2017

Irrigation consumes considerable water to satisfy the current food demand. An improvement in water use efficiency for irrigation is essential. Wind drift and evaporation losses reduce the water use efficiency of center pivot irrigation systems in arid and semi-arid areas. In this paper, a model of water vapor dynamics during and after overhead sprinkler irrigation was developed and validated by experimental data using a center pivot simulator and a water vapor measuring system. The model was represented as an exponential equation during irrigation and a logistic equation after irrigation. The water vapor dynamics measured next to and 2 m from the sprinkler were well-fitted with the developed model. Model performance was good according to evaluations of the Nash—Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient, with values of 0.961 and 0.934 for estimations next to the sprinkler and 2 m from the sprinkler, respectively. Results showed that both modeled and observed water vapor dynamics increased rapidly as irrigation started, and then leveled off to maximum values. After irrigation, the water vapor dynamics started to decrease gradually, and eventually decreased rapidly. The decreasing rate stopped when the water vapor content was restored to the level of the surrounding atmosphere. The model parameters showed that the maximum increases in water vapor content were from 2.506 to 6.476 g m−3 for the area next to the sprinkler, and 1.277 to 3.380 g m−3 for the area 2 m from the sprinkler, under the influence of vapor pressure deficits. The increasing and decreasing rates of the dynamics during and after irrigation were influenced by temperature, relative humidity, and vapor pressure deficits, according to Pearson’s correlations. A period of 2.3 to 4.0 h was required to restore water vapor to the atmospheric level.
The Friends and Family Test in general practice in England: a qualitative study of the views of staff and patients
Authors: Manacorda Tommaso , Erens Bob , Black Nick , Mays Nicholas
Published: April 2017

Background

The Friends and Family Test (FFT) was introduced into general practices in England in 2015 to provide staff with information on patients’ views of their experience of care.

Aim

To examine the views of practice staff and patients of the FFT, how the results are used, and to recommend improvements.

Design and setting

A qualitative study of a national representative sample of 42 general practices.

Method

Semi-structured interviews with 43 clinicians, 48 practice managers, and 27 patient representatives. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and analysed thematically.

Results

Although the FFT imposed little extra work on practices, it was judged to provide little additional insight over existing methods and to have had minimal impact on improving quality. Staff lacked confidence in the accuracy of the results given the lack of a representative sample and the risk of bias. The FFT question was judged to be inappropriate as in many areas there was no alternative practice for patients to choose, patients’ individual needs would not be the same as those of their friends and relatives, and an overall assessment failed to identify any specific aspects of good- or poor-quality care. Despite being intended to support local quality improvement, there was widespread unease about the FFT, with many responders perceiving it as a tool for national bodies to monitor general practices.

Conclusion

If the use of a single-item questionnaire is to continue, changes should be made to the wording. It should be focused on stimulating local quality improvement, and practice staff should be supported to use the results effectively.
Beer Tourism in Central Kentucky: Identifying On-Site Experience Preferences for Kentucky Brewery Tourists
Authors: Bradley Michael J. , Maples James , Lewis Andy , Berend K. Joseph
Published: April 2017

Craft beer tourism, defined as purposeful travel to experience beer culture, taste beers, or tour facilities, is increasing in the US. Although various regions have seen increased craft beer tourism, there is limited information related to beer tourism in the US. To aid in efforts to
understand brewery tourists, this research project solicited motivations for visitation and experience preferences of craft brewery patrons in central Kentucky. Researchers developed a visitor demographic profile, noted preferred experiences while onsite, and highlighted specific motivations
for visiting breweries. Although exploratory in nature, this information may help breweries in their programming and marketing efforts to increase brewery visitation and revenue.
A Comparison of Food Contents Used by Official Tourism Organizations' Mobile Applications
Authors: Choe Ja Young , Kim Jeong Hyun , Cho Mi Sook
Published: April 2017

Owing to the increase in the use of mobile devices when traveling, the contents of government-run tourism mobile applications (or "apps") have become a powerful way to promote a destination's cuisine and food culture. This study explores the cuisine- and gastronomy-related contents of the tourism mobile apps run by the official organizations of Hong Kong, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Switzerland, Italy, Scotland, and the Czech Republic. The mobile apps of Hong Kong, Korea, and Scotland can be regarded as user friendly, while the mobile apps of Thailand and Switzerland offer playful moments for the users. Because different types of food tourists may have different approaches and evaluations of mobile apps, tailored approaches should be necessary when developing tourism mobile apps. By examining how official tourism organizations deliver information and then comparing different food tourism marketing strategies used by these mobile apps, this study reveals the strengths and weaknesses of such apps, and provides practical suggestions for further promoting food-related information through this platform.
Tuning the spin coherence time of Cu(II)−(bis)oxamato and Cu(II)−(bis)oxamidato complexes by advanced ESR pulse protocols
Authors: Zaripov Ruslan , Vavilova Evgeniya , Khairuzhdinov Iskander , Salikhov Kev , Voronkova Violeta , Abdulmalic Mohammad A , Meva Francois E , Weheabby Saddam , Rüffer Tobias , Büchner Bernd , Kataev Vladislav
Published: April 2017

We have investigated with the pulsed ESR technique at X- and Q-band frequencies the coherence and relaxation of Cu spinsS= 1/2 in single crystals of diamagnetically diluted mononuclear [n-Bu4N]2[Cu(opba)] (1%) in the host lattice of [n-Bu4N]2[Ni(opba)] (99%, opba =o-phenylenebis(oxamato)) and of diamagnetically diluted mononuclear [n-Bu4N]2[Cu(opbon-Pr2)] (1%) in the host lattice of [n-Bu4N]2[Ni(opbon-Pr2)] (99%, opbon-Pr2=o-phenylenebis(N(propyl)oxamidato)). For that we have measured the electron spin dephasing timeTmat different temperatures with the two-pulse primary echo and with the special Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill (CPMG) multiple microwave pulse sequence. Application of the CPMG protocol has led to a substantial increase of the spin coherence lifetime in both complexes as compared to the primary echo results. It shows the efficiency of the suppression of the electron spin decoherence channel in the studied complexes arising due to spectral diffusion induced by a random modulation of the hyperfine interaction with the nuclear spins. We argue that this method can be used as a test for the relevance of the spectral diffusion for the electron spin decoherence. Our results have revealed a prominent role of the opba4–and opbon-Pr24–ligands for the dephasing of the Cu spins. The presence of additional14N nuclei and protons in [Cu(opbon-Pr2)]2–as compared to [Cu(opba)]2–yields significantly shorterTmtimes. Such a detrimental effect of the opbon-Pr24−ligands has to be considered when discussing a potential application of the Cu(II)−(bis)oxamato and Cu(II)−(bis)oxamidato complexes as building blocks of more complex molecular structures in prototype spintronic devices. Furthermore, in our work we propose an improved CPMG pulse protocol that enables elimination of unwanted echoes that inevitably appear in the case of inhomogeneously broadened ESR spectra due to the selective excitation of electron spins.
Genome‐Wide Association Mapping of Crown Rust Resistance in Oat Elite Germplasm
Authors: Klos Kathy Esvelt , Yimer Belayneh A. , Babiker Ebrahiem M. , Beattie Aaron D. , Bonman J. Michael , Carson Martin L. , Chong James , Harrison Stephen A. , Ibrahim Amir M.H. , Kolb Frederic L. , McCartney Curt A. , McMullen Michael , Fetch Jennifer Mitchell , Mohammadi Mohsen , Murphy J. Paul , Tinker Nicholas A.
Published: April 2017

Oat crown rust, caused by Puccinia coronata f. sp. avenae, is a major constraint to oat (Avena sativa L.) production in many parts of the world. In this first comprehensive multienvironment genome‐wide association map of oat crown rust, we used 2972 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) genotyped on 631 oat lines for association mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL). Seedling reaction to crown rust in these lines was assessed as infection type (IT) with each of 10 crown rust isolates. Adult plant reaction was assessed in the field in a total of 10 location–years as percentage severity (SV) and as infection reaction (IR) in a 0‐to‐1 scale. Overall, 29 SNPs on 12 linkage groups were predictive of crown rust reaction in at least one experiment at a genome‐wide level of statistical significance. The QTL identified here include those in regions previously shown to be linked with seedling resistance genes Pc48, Pc58a, Pc68, Pc71, Pc91, and PcKM and also with adult‐plant resistance and adaptation‐related QTL. In addition, QTL on linkage groups Mrg03, Mrg08, and Mrg23 were identified in regions not previously associated with crown rust resistance. Evaluation of marker genotypes in a set of crown rust differential lines supported Pc91 as the identity of QPc.CORE.18.3. The SNPs with rare alleles associated with lower disease scores may be suitable for use in marker‐assisted selection of oat lines for crown rust resistance.
Discovery of Ram-pressure Stripped Gas around an Elliptical Galaxy in Abell 2670
Authors: Sheen Yun-Kyeong , Smith Rory , Jaffé Yara , Kim Minjin , Yi Sukyoung K. , Duc Pierre-Alain , Nantais Julie , Candlish Graeme , Demarco Ricardo , Treister Ezequiel
Published: April 2017

Studies of cluster galaxies are increasingly finding galaxies with spectacular one-sided tails of gas and young stars, suggestive of intense ram-pressure stripping. These so-called “jellyfish” galaxies typically have late-type morphology. In this paper, we present Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) observations of an elliptical galaxy in Abell 2670 with long tails of material visible in the optical spectra, as well as blobs with tadpole-like morphology. The spectra in the central part of the galaxy reveal a stellar component as well as ionized gas. The stellar component does not have significant rotation, while the ionized gas defines a clear star-forming gas disk. We argue, based on deep optical images of the galaxy, that the gas was most likely acquired during a past wet merger. It is possible that the star-forming blobs are also remnants of the merger. In addition, the direction and kinematics of the one-sided ionized tails, combined with the tadpole morphology of the star-forming blobs, strongly suggests that the system is undergoing ram pressure from the intracluster medium. In summary, this paper presents the discovery of a post-merger elliptical galaxy undergoing ram-pressure stripping.
L’ethnographie de la période communiste et l’étude de la ville
Authors: Hysa Armanda , de Rapper Gilles
Published: April 2017

Cet article rappelle comment les études urbaines furent marginalisées lors de l’émergence de l’ethnologie institutionnelle en Albanie au lendemain de la Seconde Guerre mondiale, au profit des études rurales qui correspondaient mieux à la valorisation idéologique du « populaire » et de l’« authentique ». Certaines enquêtes furent cependant menées en milieu urbain et trois textes importants concernant les villes de Tirana, Elbasan et Korçë sont analysés ici. Malgré leurs limitations, dues en grande partie à l’orientation donnée à l’ethnologie par les institutions, ces travaux possèdent aujourd’hui une valeur historique et offrent des perspectives stimulantes pour le développement actuel des études urbaines.
La chanson de Korçë
Authors: Minga Mikaela , Muller Sylvie
Published: April 2017

Kënga Korçare , la chanson de Korçë est un style musical qui porte le nom de la ville où il se pratique. Le lien étroit que cette ville a tissé avec « sa chanson » est riche d’enseignements pour qui veut enquêter sur les interactions entre la création musicale et la condition urbaine. Cet article s’intéresse principalement au passé musical de la ville, en recourant aux archives, mais aussi à l’enquête de terrain.
Commemorative Religion after Communism
Authors: Mustafa Mentor
Published: April 2017

L’article analyse les évènements relatifs à un pèlerinage de commémoration qui se tient sur le Mont Tomorr, accueilli par les Bektashi albanais, où la diversité des voix et des perceptions du mouvement se fait entendre. Les observations ethnographiques reflètent la lutte des communautés religieuses après l’imposition d’une sécularisation radicale dans une société aujourd’hui sortie d’un communisme, mais qui était l’une des plus vigoureusement athée d’Europe. Deux décades après la chute du régime, l’enquête montre les défis liés à la reconstruction d’une communauté religieuse et de la pratique religieuse en général.
Pyramid Firms and Value Transformation in Postsocialist Albania
Authors: Musaraj Smoki
Published: April 2017

Avec leur effondrement, les entreprises nommées « firmes pyramidales » ( firma piramidale ) en Albanie ont englouti les économies de centaines de milliers d’investisseurs et ont mené le pays au bord de la guerre civile. Cet article étudie comment et pourquoi les investisseurs se sont engagés dans ces plans financiers frauduleux. Plus précisément, il analyse la façon dont ces entreprises ont mobilisé les réseaux de parenté, ainsi que les versements opérés par les migrants, quand du fait des transformations consécutives à la chute du socialisme au début des années 1990, l’émigration est devenue massive. Alors que la situation économique était instable et l’accès au financement très limité, ces firmes offraient un « seuil de conversion de la valeur » : elles mobilisaient différentes formes de richesse (relations familiales, versements, travail) et permettaient, ou plutôt promettaient la création de nouvelles formes de valeur financière, sociale et culturelle.
Les Jeux nautiques atlantiques.
Authors: Fuchs Julien
Published: April 2017

Les Jeux nautiques atlantiques, qui rassemblent annuellement des centaines de jeunes sportifs issus des régions et pays celtiques de la zone Atlantique, paraissent originaux parmi les « Jeux sportifs régionaux ». Faisant initialement de l’imbrication sport/culture un point central, ces Jeux ont connu un processus de sportivisation singulier. Construits sur l’idéal d’une maritimité partagée et promouvant des formes de compétition sportive qui n’oublient pas la logique de l’échange interculturel, ils se veulent lieux d’expérimentation et d’innovation pour le modèle sportif contemporain.
Valuing Non-Fatal Health Risks: Monetary and Health-Utility Measures
Authors: K. Hammitt James
Published: April 2017

Les indicateurs évaluant les politiques environnementales, sanitaires et de prévention doivent être cohérents avec les préférences des individus affectés, mais également avec les préférences sociales quant à la distribution des risques sanitaires dans la population. Deux types de mesures sont largement employées : monétaires (comme le consentement à payer) ou fondées sur des états de santé pondérés par l’utilité (comme les années de vie ajustées de la qualité ou de l’incapacité), les deux étant sommées pour toute la population. Les secondes, en imposant plus de structure que les premières, font souvent apparaître les préférences individuelles comme incohérentes. Pour la même raison, elles permettent toutefois de limiter les erreurs cognitives et les autres sources d’incohérence propres à l’évaluation monétaire. Cet article présente des preuves empiriques et théoriques permettant de comparer ces deux types d’indicateurs et d’étudier leurs covariations.
Prédiction de l’usage des sols sur un zonage régulier à différentes résolutions et à partir de covariables facilement accessibles
Authors: Chakir Raja , Laurent Thibault , Ruiz-Gazen Anne , Thomas-Agnan Christine , Vignes Céline
Published: April 2017

Nous évaluons dans quelle mesure nous pouvons prédire l’usage des sols (usage urbain, usage agricole, forêts, prairies et sols naturels) au niveau des points de l’enquête Teruti-Lucas à partir de covariables facilement accessibles. Notre approche comporte deux étapes : la première permet de modéliser l’usage du sol au niveau des points Teruti-Lucas et la deuxième propose une méthode pour en déduire l’utilisation des sols sur un maillage défini par des carreaux. Le modèle de la première étape fournit des prédictions à un niveau fin. La deuxième étape agrège ces prédictions sur les carreaux du maillage en comparant plusieurs méthodes. Nous envisageons différents maillages réguliers du territoire en carreaux pour étudier la qualité de restitution en fonction de la résolution. Nous montrons qu’avec des variables facilement accessibles on obtient une qualité de prédiction acceptable au niveau point et que l’amélioration de la qualité est importante dès la première étape d’agrégation. Classification JEL  : C21, C25, C38, Q15, R14.
Le bachelor en soins infirmiers : entre professionnalisation et professionnalité en Suisse et en Belgique
Authors: Graber Myriam , Haberey-Knuessi Véronique
Published: April 2017

La pénurie de soignants prévisible, en Suisse comme en Europe, accentue une problématique pour les politiques sanitaires. Elle pose les questions de prise en charge des patients, de la qualité des soins, des conditions permettant de favoriser l’engagement des professionnels, la pérennité de cet engagement. La formation des infirmières, en Hautes Écoles Spécialisées de Suisse Occidentale et en Belgique, est indirectement concernée par les mesures de rationalisation à l’œuvre dans les systèmes de santé. Dans ce contexte, des tensions apparaissent entre deux logiques : celle de la professionnalisation relevant de logiques économiques, et celle de la professionnalité entendue comme construction du sujet dans sa profession. La formation est un endroit privilégié pour examiner ces tensions et leurs enjeux. Les résultats de la recherche démontrent l’existence de lieux de tension que les étudiants rencontrent entre leur processus de professionnalisation et leur professionnalité émergente, tensions qui se répercutent également sur les autres piliers de la professionnalisation que sont : engagement, motivation reconnaissance. Cette étude qualitative se base sur des entretiens biographiques, des analyses de portfolio, de projets professionnels, de rapports de stage (évaluation des compétences par les professionnels), auprès de 43 étudiants bachelor, troisième année de formation en Suisse et en Belgique.
« Mais alors, j’ai une voix ! »
Authors: Nassif Wajdan , Ponticelli Adèle , Van Renterghem Vanessa
Published: April 2017

Résumé Shéhérazade
Vivre dans Yarmouk assiégé
Authors: Wadeh Mohammad , Loris-Rodionoff Charlotte , Van Renterghem Vanessa
Published: April 2017

Résumé Survivre dans le camp
Jeudi soir et vendredi matin
Authors: Bontemps Nathalie
Published: April 2017

Résumé Au milieu des voix
Le prince / 2
Authors: Messina Aïcha Liviana
Published: April 2017

Résumé Messine et Santiago
Comment perdre une lutte ?
Authors: Johnson Arthémis
Published: April 2017

Résumé ... et gagner un soulèvement
Partager
Authors: Brunon Hervé
Published: April 2017

Résumé Chronique/ Cultiver notre jardin
A New Mobile Learning Model in the Context of the Smart Classrooms Environment: A Holistic Approach
Authors: Al-Hunaiyyan Ahmed , Al-Sharhan Salah , Alhajri Rana
Published: April 2017

This paper introduces a comprehensive mobile learning (m-learning) model in the context of smart classrooms environment as a part of a holistic approach to implement an efficient Technology Enhanced Learning (TEL) Environment. In this new model, the mobile learning components, as a crucial part of the smart classroom, systematically integrate the “mobile tools” with the teaching-learning practices. However, there are many challenges to generalize such kind of learning to any educational system.  A major reason for these challenges is the lack of an integrated model in a holistic approach of the smart classroom and TEL environment. Another critical challenge is designing and developing an efficient m-learning in a smart classroom and inside smart school environment which is due to the complex environment that incorporates many pedagogical and technological elements. The proposed model in this paper is based on an integrated m-learning framework to implement a holistic e-learning approach capable of overcoming these challenges.
Pharmacy Assistant Mobile Application (PAMA): Development and Reviews
Authors: Thinnukool Orawit , Khuwuthyakorn Pattaraporn , Wientong Purida
Published: April 2017

Nowadays, pharmaceutical mobile applications are widely used. Several features and functionality play an important role to support the real needs of users especially in primary medication. Users’ behaviors in the modern world have changed where users may prefer to access drug information using search engines via the Internet rather than consulting with professionals like pharmacists, doctors or experts. However, the drug information that users retrieve from the internet sources may provide inaccurate, incomplete or unreliable information.

The questions are: can we decrease this phenomenon? Suppose that we are applying an application to a content provider, which application functionalities are suitable for users and support their real needs? Can the application encourage users to gather drug information via the application instead of searching via the internet sites? The proposed study aimed to develop a Pharmacy Assistant Mobile Application (PAMA) based on necessarily required features and functionalities which are designed and operate on the iOS operation system. The application performance has been tested and measured regarding the graphic user interface and the system acceptance level.

The experimental results have been reviewed and an issue has been found which needs to be considered as an important factor when developing a healthcare mobile application for the real uses.
Modification of Nano MgCO3 Puree on the Mechanical Properties and Gloss for Waterborne UV-Curing Wood Coatings
Authors: Yan Xiao Xing , Cai Yun Ting , Ye Huan , Yuan Ye Ping , Wu Zhi Hui , Xu Wei
Published: April 2017

In this paper, waterborne ultraviolet (UV)-curing wood coatings were modified by nano MgCO3 puree, and prepared by optimizing the process parameters. The mechanical properties (hardness, adhesion and resistance impact strength) and gloss of waterborne UV-curing wood coatings modified by nano MgCO3 puree were tested. It was found that the mechanical properties of coatings increased when nano MgCO3 content increased from 0 to 3.0%. Waterborne UV-curing wood coatings had good hardness, adhesion and impact strength when the nano MgCO3 content was 3%-4%. The hardness was 3H, the adhesion was grade 1, and impact strength was 40 kg∙cm. However, when nano MgCO3 content was higher than 4%, the mechanical properties of coatings decreased. As the nano MgCO3 content gradually increasing, the gloss of waterborne UV-curing wood coatings modified by nano MgCO3 puree decreased. When the nano MgCO3 content was 4.0%, the gloss of coating was 33%. When the nano MgCO3 content exceeded 4.0%, the gloss of waterborne UV-curing wood coatings displayed matte.