bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFECTOS DEL MODELO DETERMINÍSTICO E.O.Q. EN LAS COMERCIALIZADORAS DE PRODUCTOS DE CONSUMO MASIVO, MILAGRO – ECUADOR
Authors: Tejada Escobar Freddy , Romero Cárdenas Erika , Castillo Yagual Carlos , Zambrano Aguilar Isaac
Published: June 2017

El objetivo fundamental de este trabajo analiza los efectos que induce la aplicación del Modelo Determinístico en el proceso de abastecimiento de inventario, a través de revisión de registros, control de movimientos para evitar pérdidas financieras. La metodología a seguir en esta diagnosis se llevó a cabo mediante la aplicación de métodos de modelos determinísticos que permiten diseñar un modelo de gestión de inventarios y mejorar sus niveles de eficiencia. El estudio fue realizado a las comercializadoras de productos de consumo masivo, que se encuentran radicadas en el casco comercial de la ciudad de Milagro. Los resultados obtenidos emiten principales beneficios en el control de rotación de mercadería, facilita la constatación del inventario y su control físico así como también la transferencia de los productos. Se demuestra mediante la aplicación del modelo E.O.Q (Cantidad Económica Pedido), conocer con exactitud la cantidad precisa cuando la existencia se encuentre en un nivel óptimo y poder realizar el pedido necesario, disminuyendo los costos de almacenaje. Palabras Clave: Productos de consumo masivo, Control de inventario, Abastecimiento, Modelos Determinísticos E.O.Q. ABSTRACT The main objective of this paper is to analyze the effects caused by the application of Deterministic Model in the procurement process inventory, through review of records, control moves to avoid financial losses. The methodology followed in this diagnosis was carried out by applying methods of deterministic models to design a model of inventory management and improve efficiency levels. The study was conducted to marketers of consumer products, which are based in the commercial town of Milagro. The results issued major benefits in controlling rotation of goods, facilitates the finding of inventory and physical control as well as the transfer of products. It is demonstrated by applying the model E.O.Q (Economic Order Quantity), know exactly the right amount when existence is at an optimum level and need to place the order reducing storage costs. Keywords: Consumer products, Inventory Control, Supply, deterministic models EOQ. Recibido: diciembre de 2015Aprobado: mayo 2016
Programa de Actividades Físicas Terapéuticas en pacientes hipertensos del Subcentro de Salud "Plan Piloto" de la Fundación Futuro en Guayaquil - Ecuador.
Authors: Campaña Marco
Published: June 2017

En el Subcentro de Salud “Plan Piloto Independiente” de la Fundación Futuro en Guayaquil los pacientes hipertensos solo llevan tratamientos farmacológicos para su enfermedad y no se incluyen las actividades físicas terapéuticas como parte integral de su tratamiento. Por esta razón se aplicó un programa de ejercicios físicos para la diminución y/o mantención de los niveles de presión arterial y se planteó la tarea de evaluar distintos indicadores para comprobar la efectividad del programa. Este estudio se realizó con pacientes hipertensos del Subcentro “Plan Piloto”, para lo cual se utilizaron métodos teóricos lo que permitió obtener resultados satisfactorios en cuanto a los objetivos e hipótesis planteadas. Se realizaron encuestas a los pacientes para conocer su estado psico bio social, y otra encuesta para conocer el criterio de los especialistas que participaron durante el proceso de investigación, todo esto junto con el análisis de los resultados obtenidos nos permitió determinar las conclusiones y recomendaciones necesarias. Es de vital importancia que los especialistas en la Cultura Física Terapéutica se dediquen a contribuir al mejoramiento del estado de salud de los pacientes hipertensos por medio de las actividades físicas terapéuticas, no solo de Guayaquil sino también del País, ya que esta enfermedad crece paulatinamente y es necesario trabajar en la prevención como en el control de la Hipertensión Arterial, para reducir el índice de mortalidad que tiene en la actualidad.
Modelo de la Escuela de Ciclismo para la formación integral de los ciclistas de alto Rendimiento Deportivo en Guayaquil - Ecuador
Authors: Paula Maritza
Published: June 2017

A nivel internacional el Ciclismo se ha colocado en unos de los peldaños más relevantes. El Ciclismo deporte espectáculo se ha diversificado en sus modalidades Olímpicas. En el mundo en la formación de los Atletas del Ciclismo solo se realiza el entrenamiento deportivo, es decir se tiende a hacer al hombre y la mujer una máquina que maneja otra máquina. En los tiempos actuales están ocurriendo profundos cambios tecnológicos en el área del ciclismo. La globalización es una variable relevante a tener en cuenta como resultado inevitable del desarrollo histórico de la sociedad, sus fuerzas productivas y el desarrollo de la ciencia y la técnica. El desarrollo del deporte en Latinoamérica incluido el Ciclismo tiene que estar a tono con las tendencias innovadoras que se están desarrollando en este “Cambio de Época”. El paradigma que debe regir en nuestros países es el rescate de los principios del amateurismo, adecuados a las condiciones económicas actuales y cuya base de realización debe ser un paradigma humanista. Un modelo de escuela para cualquier deporte y en particular para el ciclismo, debe contener en su concepción una triada obligatoria: la formación ciudadana, la formación cultural general integral, la formación deportivas estructuradas y coherentemente desarrolladas
Duración real, Sobreduración y titulación oportuna en la Carrera de Ingeniería en Sistemas de la Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo
Authors: Guerra José
Published: June 2017

La presente investigación aborda un  tema muy importante en la educación superior, referente al tiempo que tardan los estudiantes universitarios en obtener su titulación; específicamente la investigación se centra en la carrera de Ingeniería en Sistemas de la Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo; analiza dieciocho años; con 856 graduados, en ese periodo, de los cuales  181 estudiantes se titularon de Ingenieros en Sistemas; a un promedio de 10.05 graduados por año y 675 estudiantes obtuvieron el título de Ingenieros en Sistemas Informáticos, con un promedio de 37.5 graduados por año. Se establece que para completar la malla el grupo en promedio requirió de 1.97 años más de los establecido en la oferta académica, obteniendo su titulación en un tiempo promedio de 8.44 años; solo 443 graduados terminaron su carrera en tiempos menores a este. Se detectó casos extremos entre los Ingenieros en Sistemas y los Ingenieros en Sistemas Informáticos, que emplean para su titulación 14.15 años y 17.78 años, respectivamente. Una investigación sobre el tema permite a las instituciones de educación superior, a los futuros estudiantes y sus familias tener una visión real del tiempo de permanencia en la universidad, así como identificar problemas y establecer correctivos encaminados a una efectiva evaluación curricular orientada a la disminución del tiempo real requerido para la graduación y optimización de los costos de formación profesional.AbstractThis research is about a very important issue in higher education; itŽs about the time it takes for college students to obtain their professional degrees; specifically focuses on the career of Engineering in Systems in the Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo; analyzes eighteen years with 856 graduates during this period, 181 students obtained the Systems Engineering with an average of 10.05 graduates per year,  and 675 students earned the title of Engineering in Computer Systems, with an average of 37.5 graduates per year. To complete the curriculum the group required on average 1.97 years more than the established academic offerings, obtaining his degree in an average time of 8.44 years; only 443 graduates finished their studies in less than this time; extreme cases among system engineers and engineers in computer systems they used 17.78 years and 14.15 years respectively. A research on this subject enables higher education institutions, students and their families have a real vision of the time in the university, also to identify problems and establish corrective measures aimed at effective curriculum evaluation in order to decrease the actual time required for graduation and optimization of the professional training costs.
How can basic services be provided in poor communities?
Authors: Villao Datzania
Published: June 2017

Despite some authors contesting that participation makes no difference, community participation is important for policy implementation. However, in order to community participation can be effective, people have to participate in all levels of a project.This article examines how sanitation services, can be provided in poor communities. The paper examines the case of “Salud Para el Pueblo” (SPP), a project that provided sanitation services in Santa Elena –Ecuador with the active participation of the community. The paper argues that to increase the provision of water and sanitation services, it is necessary to include the community in the planning, design, implementation and maintenance of the project. The article examined the literature about community participation and related it to the community participation in SPP. As a result of the involvement of the community, the project reflected community´s real needs, increased their accountability, reduced costs of the project and also contributed to better health in Santa Elena.
Plataformas de datos abiertos: disponibilidad de mercado
Authors: Muirragui Irrazábal Viena , Pacheco Olea Fernando , León Plúas Edwin , Guevara Viejó Fabricio
Published: June 2017

El documento presenta las oportunidades que dentro del contexto de disponibilidad de mercado existen para el uso de las plataformas open data, ya que no todas las organizaciones tienen recursos propios que sean suficientes para implantar sus plataformas desde una base inicial, siendo por lo tanto necesario requerir aquellas que han sido desarrolladas por empresas expertas en ello; si se considera tomar ésta opción tendrían a resolver el proceso, sin embargo podría constituirse en una pérdida de capacidad de llegar a personalizar y adecuar integralmente la plataforma a las necesidades especificas de la organización que las requiera. Tomando en consideración lo expuesto, en este artículo de revisión se detallan características con las que cuentan  algunas de las plataformas consideradas principales por su aplicabilidad que están disponibles en el mercado, sea a través de un modelo de software gratuito o libre y, también,  con licencia comercial, en otros casos. Los datos que han sido considerados para este análisis se los referencia con respecto a la información que los propios proveedores han proporcionado por medio de documentación que se encuentra publicada por ellos  en la web, como también se ha considerado la experiencia con versiones trial y ejemplos utilizables de manera abierta. Abstract The paper presents the opportunities within the context of market availability exist for the use of open data platforms, since not all organizations have their own resources which are sufficient to implement their platforms from an initial base, being therefore necessary to require those that have been developed by expert companies in it; considering taking this option would solve the process, however it could become a loss of ability to reach fully customize and adapt the platform to the specific needs of the organization that requires them. Considering the above, in this review article features are detailed with that feature some of the platforms major consideration for its applicability that are available in the market, either through a model of free and open source software and also licensed trade in other cases. The data that have been considered for this analysis is the reference regarding the information that the suppliers have provided through documentation that is published by them on the web, as has also been considered the experience with trial versions and examples used openly.
Sistema de monitoreo de embarcaciones de pesca artesanal de Anconcito, provincia de Santa Elena, Ecuador, utilizando tecnología AIS - Automatic Identification System
Authors: Avilés Bastidas Ashley , Sánchez Jordán Germán , Villao Quezada Freddy
Published: June 2017

Ante la evidente crisis que se está presentando en Ecuador debido al incremento en los índices de robos en altamar, principalmente de los motores fuera de borda de las lanchas de pesca artesanal, es necesario implementar un sistema de control eficaz que ofrezca seguridad para la comunidad pesquera; con este fin se propone un sistema de detección de embarcaciones de pesca artesanal con tecnología AIS. En este estudio se explican todos los beneficios que ofrece esta tecnología que actualmente se usa para el monitoreo de buques, así como las aplicaciones para un sistema de monitoreo de embarcaciones pequeñas, las clases de equipos disponibles y sus principales características. Con este objetivo se propone el diseño de una red que permita ubicar las embarcaciones de la comunidad pesquera de Anconcito, que es una de las zonas más afectadas por la delincuencia. Además, se anticipan los resultados esperados con este diseño y varias alternativas técnicas para mejorar la cobertura del sistema.AbstractGiven the evident crisis that is occurring in Ecuador due to the increase in the rates of robberies on the high seas, mainly of the outboard motorboats of the artisanal fishing boats, it is necessary to implement an effective control system that provides security for the fishing community. To this end, a system of detection of artisanal fishing vessels with AIS technology is proposed. In this study, all the benefits of this technology are explained which is currently used for monitoring ships, as well as the applications for a monitoring system of small boats, the kinds of equipment available and their main characteristics.With this objective, the design of a network that allows locate the vessels of the fishing community of Anconcito, which is one of the areas most affected by crime, is proposed. In addition, the expected results with this design and several technical alternatives to improve the coverage of the system are anticipated.
Versions of the Self: Mouvance and Authorship in Heinrich von Morungen
Authors: Fockele Kenneth
Published: June 2017

Many medieval lyrics have been transmitted in multiple manuscript versions. The discrepancies between these versions are often attributed to a loose medieval conception of authorship that left later redactors unconcerned with the integrity of a work. Using songs by the twelfth-century German lyric poet Heinrich von Morungen, I argue that variation can in fact be part of the project of fashioning an authorial self. By embedding manifold aesthetic options and ethical ideals into their songs and providing space for creative rearrangement by later singers, Morungen and other poets establish their reputations as masters of the realm of poetic possibility.
Der Wald-Wild-Konflikt – was kann die Forstökonomie zur Lösung beitragen? (Essay)
Authors: Hanewinkel Marc
Published: June 2017

The forest-game conflict – how can forest economics contribute to solve it? (Essay)

Core parameters of forest economics such as land expectation value or highest revenue show that damage caused by wild ungulates can critically influence the economic success of forest enterprises. When assessing and evaluating the damage in order to calculate damage compensation, methods are applied in Germany that look either into the past (“cost value methods”) or into the future (“expected value methods”). The manifold uncertainties related to this evaluation over long-term production periods are taken into account within a framework of conventions through strongly simplifying assumptions. Only lately, the increased production risk due to game-induced loss of species diversity is also considered. Additional aspects that should be taken into account in the future are the loss of climate-adapted species, the change of the insurance values of forest ecosystems and the impossibility of specific management systems such as single-tree selection forestry due to the influence of game. Because of high transaction costs when assessing the damage, financial compensation should only be the “ultimate measure” and a meditation between stakeholder groups with the goal to find a cooperative solution before the damage occurs should be preferred.
A Novel Mechanically Overdamped Actuator with Adjustable Stiffness (MOD-AwAS) for Safe Interaction and Accurate Positioning
Authors: Lee Jae , Wahrmund Christian , Jafari Amir
Published: June 2017

This paper presents the design and development of a novel mechanically overdamped actuator with adjustable stiffness (MOD-AwAS). The novelty of MOD-AwAS compared to other variable stiffness actuators relates to its mechanical design, which prevents oscillations at the output link. Almost all variable stiffness actuators have an overshooting problem that require a sophisticated control algorithm to be able to perform accurate positioning. MOD-AwAS can regulate the stiffness from zero to its maximum (theoretically infinite) in less than 0.2 s by changing the position of the pivot point of its lever mechanisms. MOD-AwAS employs only one rotational spring with no pre-deflection, which gives it full accessibility to its energy storage capacity. Experimental results are presented to show the ability of MOD-AwAS to control its position accurately with a wide range of stiffness adjustment.
The Antioxidant Activity of Quercetin in Water Solution
Authors: Amorati Riccardo , Baschieri Andrea , Cowden Adam , Valgimigli Luca
Published: June 2017

Despite its importance, little is known about the absolute performance and the mechanism for quercetin’s antioxidant activity in water solution. We have investigated this aspect by combining differential oxygen-uptake kinetic measurements and B3LYP/6311+g (d,p) calculations. At pH = 2.1 (30 °C), quercetin had modest activity (kinh = 4.0 × 103 M−1 s−1), superimposable to catechol. On raising the pH to 7.4, reactivity was boosted 40-fold, trapping two peroxyl radicals in the chromen-4-one core and two in the catechol with kinh of 1.6 × 105 and 7.0 × 104 M−1 s−1. Reaction occurs from the equilibrating mono-anions in positions 4′ and 7 and involves firstly the OH in position 3, having bond dissociation enthalpies of 75.0 and 78.7 kcal/mol, respectively, for the two anions. Reaction proceeds by a combination of proton-coupled electron-transfer mechanisms: electron–proton transfer (EPT) and sequential proton loss electron transfer (SPLET). Our results help rationalize quercetin’s reactivity with peroxyl radicals and its importance under biomimetic settings, to act as a nutritional antioxidant.
Regime-Switching Effect of Tourism Specialization on Economic Growth in Asia Pacific Countries
Authors: Chiang Geng-Nan , Sung Wei-Ying , Lei Wen-Guu
Published: June 2017

In the past 30 years, many studies have focused on exploring the relationship between tourism development and economic growth. However, there has been no consensus reached concerning of the relationship. This study will attempt to clarify the relationship between tourism development and economic growth. The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between tourism development and economic growth. This study applies the Panel Smooth Transition Regression Model (PSTR) proposed by Gonzalez et al. (2005) to investigate the regime-switching effect of tourism specialization on economic growth in Asia Pacific countries over the period 1996–2009. The results are as follows: (a) there were regime-switching effects of tourism specialization on economic growth; (b) the tourism specialization on economic growth has a better explanation for the effects of non-linear PSTR than linear PLS (Panel Least Squares); (c) in medium degree of tourism specialization countries (the value is between 0.0123~0.01663), tourism development has a significantly positive influence on economic growth, but consumption ability and investment ratios have a significantly negative influence on economic growth; (d) in low or high degree of tourism specialization countries (the value is below 0.0123 or above 0.01663), tourism development has a reduced influence on economic growth, and significantly positive influence on consumption ability and investment ratios. On the basis of these results, this study presents policy recommendations and areas for future research.
Review of Reactive Power Dispatch Strategies for Loss Minimization in a DFIG-based Wind Farm
Authors: Zhang Baohua , Hu Weihao , Hou Peng , Tan Jin , Soltani Mohsen , Chen Zhe
Published: June 2017

This paper reviews and compares the performance of reactive power dispatch strategies for the loss minimization of Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG)-based Wind Farms (WFs). Twelve possible combinations of three WF level reactive power dispatch strategies and four Wind Turbine (WT) level reactive power control strategies are investigated. All of the combined strategies are formulated based on the comprehensive loss models of WFs, including the loss models of DFIGs, converters, filters, transformers, and cables of the collection system. Optimization problems are solved by a Modified Particle Swarm Optimization (MPSO) algorithm. The effectiveness of these strategies is evaluated by simulations on a carefully designed WF under a series of cases with different wind speeds and reactive power requirements of the WF. The wind speed at each WT inside the WF is calculated using the Jensen wake model. The results show that the best reactive power dispatch strategy for loss minimization comes when the WF level strategy and WT level control are coordinated and the losses from each device in the WF are considered in the objective.
Pharmacological Modulation of Radiation Damage. Does It Exist a Chance for Other Substances than Hematopoietic Growth Factors and Cytokines?
Authors: Hofer Michal , Hoferová Zuzana , Falk Martin
Published: June 2017

In recent times, cytokines and hematopoietic growth factors have been at the center of attention for many researchers trying to establish pharmacological therapeutic procedures for the treatment of radiation accident victims. Two granulocyte colony-stimulating factor-based radiation countermeasures have been approved for the treatment of the hematopoietic acute radiation syndrome. However, at the same time, many different substances with varying effects have been tested in animal studies as potential radioprotectors and mitigators of radiation damage. A wide spectrum of these substances has been studied, comprising various immunomodulators, prostaglandins, inhibitors of prostaglandin synthesis, agonists of adenosine cell receptors, herbal extracts, flavonoids, vitamins, and others. These agents are often effective, relatively non-toxic, and cheap. This review summarizes the results of animal experiments, which show the potential for some of these untraditional or new radiation countermeasures to become a part of therapeutic procedures applicable in patients with the acute radiation syndrome. The authors consider β-glucan, 5-AED (5-androstenediol), meloxicam, γ-tocotrienol, genistein, IB-MECA (N6-(3-iodobezyl)adenosine-5’-N-methyluronamide), Ex-RAD (4-carboxystyryl-4-chlorobenzylsulfone), and entolimod the most promising agents, with regards to their contingent use in clinical practice.
Discovering and Understanding City Events with Big Data: The Case of Rome
Authors: Furletti Barbara , Trasarti Roberto , Cintia Paolo , Gabrielli Lorenzo
Published: June 2017

The increasing availability of large amounts of data and digital footprints has given rise to ambitious research challenges in many fields, which spans from medical research, financial and commercial world, to people and environmental monitoring. Whereas traditional data sources and census fail in capturing actual and up-to-date behaviors, Big Data integrate the missing knowledge providing useful and hidden information to analysts and decision makers. With this paper, we focus on the identification of city events by analyzing mobile phone data (Call Detail Record), and we study and evaluate the impact of these events over the typical city dynamics. We present an analytical process able to discover, understand and characterize city events from Call Detail Record, designing a distributed computation to implement Sociometer, that is a profiling tool to categorize phone users. The methodology provides an useful tool for city mobility manager to manage the events and taking future decisions on specific classes of users, i.e., residents, commuters and tourists.
TOPCAT: Desktop Exploration of Tabular Data for Astronomy and Beyond
Authors: Taylor Mark
Published: June 2017

TOPCAT, the Tool for OPerations on Catalogues And Tables, is an interactive desktop application for retrieval, analysis and manipulation of tabular data, offering a powerful and flexible range of interactive visualization options amongst other features. Its visualization capabilities focus on enabling interactive exploration of large static local tables—millions of rows and hundreds of columns can easily be handled on a standard desktop or laptop machine, and various options are provided for meaningful graphical representation of such large datasets. TOPCAT has been developed in the context of astronomy, but many of its features are equally applicable to other domains. The software, which is free and open source, is written in Java, and the underlying high-performance visualisation library is suitable for re-use in other applications.
Metal–Organic Frameworks and Their Derivatives for Photocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Song Fuzhan , Li Wei , Sun Yujie
Published: June 2017

Amongst many strategies for renewable energy conversion, light-driven water splitting to produce clean H2 represents a promising approach and has attracted increasing attention in recent years. Owing to the multi-electron/multi-proton transfer nature of water splitting, low-cost and competent catalysts are needed. Along the rapid development of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) during the last two decades or so, MOFs have been recognized as an interesting group of catalysts or catalyst supports for photocatalytic water splitting. The modular synthesis, intrinsically high surface area, tunable porosity, and diverse metal nodes and organic struts of MOFs render them excellent catalyst candidates for photocatalytic water splitting. To date, the application of MOFs and their derivatives as photocatalysts for water splitting has become a burgeoning field. Herein, we showcase several representative MOF-based photocatalytic systems for both H2 and O2 evolution reactions (HER, OER). The design principle of each catalytic system is specifically discussed. The current challenges and opportunities of utilizing MOFs for photocatalytic water splitting are discussed in the end.
I Text English to Everyone: Links between Second-Language Texting and Academic Proficiency
Authors: McSweeney Michelle
Published: June 2017

This article reports on research investigating the relationship between text messaging and academic literacy among Spanish-dominant emergent bilingual young adults in New York City (acquiring English). Through assessments of academic language and analysis of a corpus of 44,597 text messages, this study found that emergent bilinguals who send more messages in English and choose English for the settings on their mobile phones tend to have higher academic English skills. This study also found that the English messages they send are lexically less dense than the Spanish messages, illustrating that students use a narrower vocabulary when texting in their second language. This finding is explored in light of previous research that has found that using social media in the target language can help students develop fluency and intercultural competence skills, but not always vocabulary. The results are discussed in terms of the tendency for texters to text monolingually and other affordances and constraints of smart phone use in digitally supporting second language acquisition.
Leaching Kinetics of Hemimorphite in Ammonium Chloride Solution
Authors: Zhao Duoqiang , Yang Shenghai , Chen Yongming , Tang Chaobo , He Jing , Li Hao
Published: June 2017

The leaching kinetics of hemimorphite (Zn4Si2O7(OH)2·H2O) in ammonium chloride solution was presented in detail. Effects of stirring speed (150–350 rpm), leaching temperature (75–108 °C), particle size of hemimorphite (45–150 μm), and the concentration of ammonium chloride (3.5–5.5 mol/L) on the zinc extraction rate were studied. The zinc extraction rate enhanced slightly with the increase in stirring speed, but increased significantly with an increase in the leaching temperature and ammonium chloride concentration. Zinc extraction was enhanced significantly in the first 60 min with decreasing particle size, but had little effect on the leaching process after 60 min. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that some silica gel formed in the leaching process was not separated from the hemimorphite surface, but covered some of the active particle surface. The Elovich equation successfully described the leaching kinetics of hemimorphite in ammonium chloride solution with an apparent activation energy of 405.14 kJ/mol at temperatures of 75–90 °C and 239.61 kJ/mol at temperatures of 95–108 °C, which is characteristic for a chemically-controlled process. Silica gel is generated at temperatures of 75–90 °C and decomposed into silica at temperatures of 95–108 °C.
Ammonium-Carbamate-Rich Organogels for the Preparation of Amorphous Calcium Carbonates
Authors: Bacsik Zoltán , Zhang Peng , Hedin Niklas
Published: June 2017

Amine-CO2 chemistry is important for a range of different chemical processes, including carbon dioxide capture. Here, we studied how aspects of this chemistry could be used to prepare calcium carbonates. Chemically crosslinked organogels were first prepared by reacting hyperbranched polyethylene imine (PEI) dissolved in DMSO with carbon dioxide. The crosslinks of the organogel consisted of ammonium-carbamate ion pairs as was shown by IR spectroscopy. These carbamate-rich organogels were subsequently subjected to aqueous solutions of calcium acetate, and amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) precipitated. The ACC did not crystalize during the mixing for up to 20 h, as was shown by a combination of IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermal analysis. Some PEI had been included or adsorbed on the ACC particles. Traces of calcite were observed in one sample that had been subjected to water in a work-up procedure.
Special Issue: Chitin, Chitosan and Related Enzymes
Authors: Fenice Massimiliano
Published: June 2017

Chitin and chitosan are very abundant natural polymers with distinctive properties, such as bioactivity, biocompatibility and biodegradability, that have inspired a number of basic and applied studies, mostly in biotechnology, medicine, food preservation and agriculture.[...]
The Cytological Events and Molecular Control of Life Cycle Development of Trypanosoma brucei in the Mammalian Bloodstream
Authors: Silvester Eleanor , McWilliam Kirsty , Matthews Keith
Published: June 2017

African trypanosomes cause devastating disease in sub-Saharan Africa in humans and livestock. The parasite lives extracellularly within the bloodstream of mammalian hosts and is transmitted by blood-feeding tsetse flies. In the blood, trypanosomes exhibit two developmental forms: the slender form and the stumpy form. The slender form proliferates in the bloodstream, establishes the parasite numbers and avoids host immunity through antigenic variation. The stumpy form, in contrast, is non-proliferative and is adapted for transmission. Here, we overview the features of slender and stumpy form parasites in terms of their cytological and molecular characteristics and discuss how these contribute to their distinct biological functions. Thereafter, we describe the technical developments that have enabled recent discoveries that uncover how the slender to stumpy transition is enacted in molecular terms. Finally, we highlight new understanding of how control of the balance between slender and stumpy form parasites interfaces with other components of the infection dynamic of trypanosomes in their mammalian hosts. This interplay between the host environment and the parasite’s developmental biology may expose new vulnerabilities to therapeutic attack or reveal where drug control may be thwarted by the biological complexity of the parasite’s lifestyle.
Sialic Acid-Targeted Biointerface Materials and Bio-Applications
Authors: Xiong Yuting , Li Minmin , Lu Qi , Qing Guangyan , Sun Taolei
Published: June 2017

Sialic acids (SAs) are typically found as terminal monosaccharides attached to cell surface glycoconjugates, which play crucial roles in various biological processes, and aberrant sialylation is closely associated with many diseases, particularly cancers. As SAs are overexpressed in tumor-associated glycoproteins, the recognition and specific binding of SA are crucial for monitoring, analyzing and controlling cancer cells, which would have a considerable impact on diagnostic and therapeutic application. However, both effective and selective recognition of SA on the cancer cell surface remains challenging. In recent years, SA-targeted biointerface materials have attracted great attention in various bio-applications, including cancer detection and imaging, drug delivery for cancer therapy and sialylated glycopeptide separation or enrichment. This review provides an overview of recent advances in SA-targeted biointerface materials and related bio-applications.
Facile Synthesis and Self-Assembly of Amphiphilic Polyether-Octafunctionalized Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane via Thiol-Ene Click Reaction
Authors: Xia Yong , Ding Sha , Liu Yuejun , Qi Zhengjian
Published: June 2017

We demonstrated here a facile and efficient synthesis of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane-based amphiphilic polymer by thiol-ene click chemistry. The properties of polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS)–PEG amphiphilic polymers were studied in detail by a combination of 1H NMR, 13C NMR, 29Si NMR FT-IR, GPC, and TG analysis. The newly-designed thiol-ene protocol obtains only anti-Markovnikov addition POSS-based amphiphilic polymers when compared with platinum-catalysed hydrosilylation method. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) of the resulting polymers are in the range of 0.011 to 0.050 mg/mL, and dynamic light scattering (DLS) results revealed that the obtained amphiphilic polymers can self-assemble into nanoparticles in aqueous solutions with a bimodal (two peaks) distribution. Furthermore, the specific polymer showed obvious thermo-sensitive behaviour at 45.5 °C.
Review of Field Development Optimization of Waterflooding, EOR, and Well Placement Focusing on History Matching and Optimization Algorithms
Authors: Udy Jackson , Hansen Brigham , Maddux Sage , Petersen Donald , Heilner Spencer , Stevens Kevin , Lignell David , Hedengren John
Published: June 2017

This paper presents a review of history matching and oil field development optimization techniques with a focus on optimization algorithms. History matching algorithms are reviewed as a precursor to production optimization algorithms. Techniques for history matching and production optimization are reviewed including global and local methods. Well placement, well control, and combined well placement-control optimization using both secondary and tertiary oil production techniques are considered. Secondary and tertiary recovery techniques are commonly referred to as waterflooding and enhanced oil recovery (EOR), respectively. Benchmark models for comparison of methods are summarized while other applications of methods are discussed throughout. No single optimization method is found to be universally superior. Key areas of future work are combining optimization methods and integrating multiple optimization processes. Current challenges and future research opportunities for improved model validation and large scale optimization algorithms are also discussed.
Exploring Motivation and Barriers to Physical Activity among Active and Inactive Australian Adults
Authors: Hoare Erin , Stavreski Bill , Jennings Garry , Kingwell Bronwyn
Published: June 2017

Physical inactivity is a major global public health issue associated with a range of chronic disease outcomes. As such, the underlying motivation and barriers to whether or not an individual engages in physical activity is of critical public health importance. This study examines the National Heart Foundation of Australia Heart Week Survey conducted in March 2015. A total of 894 (40% female) Australian adults aged 25–54 years completed the survey, including items relating to motivation and barriers to being physically active. The most frequently selected responses regarding motivation for physical activity among those categorised as active (n = 696) were; to lose or maintain weight (36.6%, 95% CI 33.1–40.3), avoid or manage health condition (17.8%, 95% CI 15.1–20.8), and improve appearance (12.8%, 95% CI 10.5–15.5). Some gender differences were found with a greater proportion of females (43.8%, 95% CI 38.0–49.8) reporting lose or maintain weight as their main motivation for being physically active compared to males (31.9%, 95% CI 27.7–36.6). Among those categorised as inactive (n = 198), lack of time (50.0%, 95% CI 43.0–56.8) was the most frequently reported barrier to physical activity. While empirical studies seek to understand the correlates and determinants of physical activity, it is critical that beliefs and perceptions enabling and prohibiting engagement are identified in order to optimise physical activity promotion in the community.
The Evaluation and Application of the TRIZ Method for Increasing Eco-Innovative Levels in SMEs
Authors: Feniser Cristina , Burz Gheorghe , Mocan Marian , Ivascu Larisa , Gherhes Vasile , Otel Calin
Published: June 2017

If in the past, the success of innovation was measured primarily in the economic sphere, recently the non-economic sphere has increasingly become more of a matter of corporate management and, therefore, of innovation management. Management’s acquisition of non-economic aspects has been strongly influenced by the vision of sustainable development. Sustainability is a direction of action important for innovation as well, integrating economic, social, and environmental responsibility in the management of innovation, leading to sustainability-oriented innovation (SOI). Research on SOI approached innovation processes has been carried out in large companies, however in recent years the use of TRIZ (teoriya resheniya izobretatelskikh zadach) tools has been tried for SOI. The TRIZ-based approach is a valuable tool because it does not require an encyclopedic knowledge of field-specific technology and it enables the expansion of the scope of problem solutions beyond the skills of the team members. This paper discusses the concepts of sustainability, innovation, and risk management in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for the purpose of developing a flow chart for the implementation of the TRIZ method in SMEs and for evaluating the state of innovation in such companies. Through the use of the TRIZ method in the field of SMEs, fast and efficient processes, products, and sustainable services have been obtained.
Energy Efficiency Drivers in Wastewater Treatment Plants: A Double Bootstrap DEA Analysis
Authors: Guerrini Andrea , Romano Giulia , Indipendenza Alessandro
Published: June 2017

The relevance of wastewater treatment service has increased in recent years, since it has a significant impact on the natural environment. A treatment plant facilitates energy generation, the recovery of products from waste, and the reuse of wastewater for industrial and irrigation purposes. An indirect environmental effect is the high energy consumption for pumping water and for tank aeration. The objective of this research is to develop a tool for measuring the energy costs of wastewater treatment plants and identifying how they can be reduced. The method adopted is double-bootstrap data envelopment analysis. The results show that the variables with a significant influence on efficiency are the chemical oxygen demand concentration; plant capacity; rate of used capacity, which positively affects efficiency; weight of industrial customers, which exerts a negative impact; and aeration system, with a negative impact for turbines. This paper suggests the adoption of an effective control tool to monitor the costs drivers and energy expenditure of water utilities.
Impact of Biochar Formulation on the Release of Particulate Matter and on Short-Term Agronomic Performance
Authors: Maienza Anita , Genesio Lorenzo , Acciai Marco , Miglietta Franco , Pusceddu Emanuela , Vaccari Francesco
Published: June 2017

When applied in agriculture, the solid carbonaceous residue of anoxic thermochemical conversion of biomass (biochar) has variable effects on soil, crop yields, and climate mitigation. Biochar can be added to soil as powder or as pellets. While powdered forms have demonstrated effects on crop yields, they may release coarse and fine particulate that can be transported into the atmosphere during production, packaging, storage, transport, and distribution. Biochar weathering and wind erosion may also cause the release of particles. Particulate matter (PM) released from biochar may have negative effects on human health and increase the atmospheric burden of shortwave absorbing black carbon aerosols with non-negligible effects on atmospheric radiative forcing. Pelletizing feedstock before the thermochemical conversion and moistening of biochar are expected to reduce the emission of PM in the processing and post-processing phases while also increasing the mean residence time of Carbon in soils. The impact of biochar formulation (pellet and non-pellet) on the release of coarse and fine particulate in wet and dry conditions was assessed in a laboratory experiment. In parallel, the effects of pellet and non-pellet formulations on growth and yield of processing tomato plants were tested in a pot experiment. Results show that pelletization and moistening substantially reduce the amount of fine particles released and are therefore practices that should be adopted to maximize the mitigation potential of biochar. A reduction of tomato yield was observed in pellet treatment, suggesting that the higher interface area of powdered biochar may boost productivity in the short term. This work points to the existence of a tradeoff between the short-term maximization of agronomic benefits and the minimization of harmful effects due to particulate release.
Bioclimatic Classification of Northeast Asia Reflecting Social Factors: Development and Characterization
Authors: Choi Yuyoung , Lim Chul-Hee , Ryu Jieun , Jeon Seong Woo
Published: June 2017

Biodiversity is rapidly declining globally and efforts are needed to mitigate this continually increasing loss of species. Clustering of areas with similar habitats can be used to prioritize protected areas and distribute resources for the conservation of species, selection of representative sample areas for research, and evaluation of impacts due to environmental changes. In this study, Northeast Asia (NEA) was classified into 27 bioclimatic zones using statistical techniques, and it was re-clustered into 14 groups to identify the environmental characteristics of these zones. In particular, we added land cover variables into the clustering to reflect not only simple climate but also social factors influencing biological habitats. In total, 53 bioclimatic variables were constructed, and principal components were generated using correlation analysis and principal component analysis (PCA). The iterative self-organizing data analysis technique algorithm (ISODATA) was used to cluster the principal components and land cover variable. The constructed bioclimatic zones were assigned codes and descriptive names based on aridity, seasonality, and naturality, and their environmental characteristics were identified. This study is significant in that it improved the understanding of biological habitats of NEA and established a basis for monitoring the distribution of species and for efficient and systematic management of biodiversity.
Representations of Food Waste in Reality Food Television: An Exploratory Analysis of Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares
Authors: Thompson Kirrilly , Haigh Laura
Published: June 2017

Food waste is a global issue with serious economic and environmental implications. Although a number of psychosocial and cultural factors have been identified, little attention has been paid to how food waste is culturally presented, circulated, and mediated. In this exploratory study, we consider how food waste is presented in the thriving genre of reality food television. Specifically, we conducted a content and discourse analysis of UK television programme, Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares (RKN). We found that visual and discursive references to food waste are associated with business, food, and personal incompetency in RKN. Furthermore, food handling was constructed as a moral issue. In RKN, food waste is not resolved via specific educational interventions for food waste prevention, but through attention to broader personal, business, and food incompetencies, which are value-laden and morally relevant. We discuss the symbolic dimensions of the transformation of food into food waste by drawing on Mary Douglas’ ideas of matter out of place. We suggest that food waste research and behavior change could benefit from addressing personal, professional, and moral competencies which may not be directly related to food, but which may reduce food waste. Our analysis of food waste in a televised environment extends waste research in specific geographical locations and spatial contexts.
p-Curve and Selection Methods as Meta-Analytic Supplements for Biologists: A Demonstration of Effect Size Estimation in Studies of Human Fluctuating Asymmetry
Authors: Grebe Nicholas , Falcon Rachael , Gangestad Steven
Published: June 2017

Fluctuating asymmetry is hypothesized to predict developmental instability (DI) and fitness outcomes. While published studies largely support this prediction, publication bias remains an issue. Biologists have increasingly turned to meta-analysis to estimate true support for an effect. Van Dongen and Gangestad (VD&G) performed a meta-analysis on studies of fluctuating asymmetry (FA) and fitness-related qualities in humans. They found an average robust effect size, but estimates varied widely. Recently, psychologists have identified limitations in traditional meta-analyses and popular companion adjustments, and have advocated for alternative meta-analytic techniques. P-curve estimates true mean effects using significant published effects; it also detects the presence of p-hacking (where researchers exploit researcher “degrees of freedom”), not just publication bias. Alternative selection methods also provide a means to estimate average effect size correcting for publication bias, but may better account for heterogeneity in effect sizes and publication decisions than p-curve. We provide a demonstration by performing p-curve and selection method analyses on the set of effects from VD&G. We estimate an overall effect size range (r = 0.08–0.15) comparable to VD&G, but with notable differences between domains and techniques. Results from alternative estimation methods can provide corroborating evidence for, as well as insights beyond, traditional meta-analytic estimates.