bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Touristic Consumption as “Sitesharing”: Unpacking the Smart Tourism Paradigm from an Internet Studies Perspective
Authors: Magasic Michelangelo
Published: January 2021

This paper presents a conceptual framework “sitesharing” for understanding touristic consumption within the smart tourism paradigm. Smart tourism considers the use of ICTs as beneficial and essential to the future of tourism. However, the integration of technological intermediaries with the sphere of tourism bears investigation in terms of the wider effects on tourism processes. Taking an interdisciplinary stance, the paper utilizes an internet studies perspective in order to examine the political, social, and cultural implications of the integration of ICTs within tourism. Through the exploration of three key metaphors drawn from across the fields of study: performance, place, and sharing; the paper considers how ICTs influence tourists’ consumption, telling, and experiencing of tourism. The framework of sitesharing argues that sharing, rather than seeing, becomes the requisite practice of tourists with concomitant changes in the form of tourist practice and the shape of tourist places. From the discussion, four emergent dimensions of sitesharing are presented with the intention of informing future tourism research.
The Pathway from Smartness to Sustainability: Exploring the Transmission Mechanisms
Authors: Perles-Ribes José F. , Ivars-Baidal Josep A.
Published: January 2021

Smartness and sustainability have many points in common. Recent literature suggests that smartness would be a possibility to achieve the desired sustainability of tourist destinations. This article reviews the theoretical mechanisms that link both concepts and analyses their importance for a set of smart cities an destinations in Spain.
Assessing Online Sustainability Communication of Italian Cultural Destinations – A Web Content Mining Approach
Authors: Marchi Valentina , Apicerni Valentina , Marasco Alessandra
Published: January 2021

Online sustainability communication attracts a considerable attention in tourism research. This study focuses on sustainability communication in official destination websites for informing and motivating visitors to adopt sustainable practices and behaviors. To advance previous research in this area, it adopts a web content mining approach to assess the characteristics of online contents of a sample of 20 Italian cultural destinations. The main dimensions and typologies of sustainability-oriented practices in tourism are used as basis to develop a text classifier for the automated content analysis. A total of 2.975 web pages from official city websites and official tourism promotion websites of the destinations is analyzed through this approach to investigate the online contents relating to the environmental, economic, socio-cultural and general dimensions sustainability as well as their emotional appeal. The analysis reveals that about 15.8% of total online texts contains information to promote sustainability-oriented behaviors at the destination. It indicates that the communication is more specifically focused on environmental/economic/socio-cultural practices than generically referring to sustainable/responsible tourism. However, in line with previous research, it highlights that destinations do not sufficiently balance these pillars in their online communication. Further, the websites’ texts scarcely leverage the persuasive potential of affective appealing messages. The implications of this automated approach for improving the design of online sustainability-related contents are also discussed.
“Old” and “New” Media Discourses on Chinese Outbound Tourism to Switzerland Before and During the Covid-19 Outbreak. An Exploratory Study
Authors: Hasenzahl Lea , Cantoni Lorenzo
Published: January 2021

The paper presents an exploratory research focused on the themes concerning Chinese Outbound Tourism to Switzerland in the period from January 2019 to June 2020 including the Covid-19 outbreak. It analyses news media articles from Swiss-German print media covering tourism coming from China, including a visit by 12’000 Chinese travelers – an event extensively covered within Switzerland due to its exceptional number – up to recent times in which non-European tourists are almost absent from the country. The research aims at identifying the main themes being voiced in newspaper articles. It also tackles the themes mentioned in user-generated comments on Facebook on the same articles.
Enhancing the Visitor Experience in the Time of COVID 19: The Use of AI Robotics in Pembrokeshire Coastal Pathway
Authors: Minor Katarzyna , McLoughlin Emmet , Richards Vicky
Published: January 2021

AI and Robots represent a major innovation opportunity for the tourism sector, and their potential impact and application offer several new opportunities to enhance and develop the visitor experience. Nevertheless, there has been limited academic research on the use of robots, together with a limited number of destinations embracing this technology. Focusing on the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, this research paper outlines how a multi methodological approach could be utilised to examine the use of AI and robotics in helping to enhance the visitor experience during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The researchers anticipate that outcomes from such a study could not only provide theoretical contributions in the area of addressing concerns about accessibility in tourism and leisure settings, but also serve to inform both academia and the wider tourism industry to the benefits such technology can have towards enhancing the visitor experience within social distancing parameters.
Formal Semantics and Verification of Network-Based Biocomputation Circuits
Authors: Aluf-Medina Michelle , Korten Till , Raviv Avraham , Nicolau Dan V. , Kugler Hillel
Published: January 2021

Network-Based Biocomputation Circuits (NBCs) offer a new paradigm for solving complex computational problems by utilizing biological agents that operate in parallel to explore manufactured planar devices. The approach can also have future applications in diagnostics and medicine by combining NBCs computational power with the ability to interface with biological material. To realize this potential, devices should be designed in a way that ensures their correctness and robust operation. For this purpose, formal methods and tools can offer significant advantages by allowing investigation of design limitations and detection of errors before manufacturing and experimentation. Here we define a computational model for NBCs by providing formal semantics to NBC circuits. We present a formal verification-based approach and prototype tool that can assist in the design of NBCs by enabling verification of a given design’s correctness. Our tool allows verification of the correctness of NBC designs for several NP-Complete problems, including the Subset Sum, Exact Cover and Satisfiability problems and can be extended to other NBC implementations. Our approach is based on defining transition systems for NBCs and using temporal logic for specifying and proving properties of the design using model checking. Our formal model can also serve as a starting point for computational complexity studies of the power and limitations of NBC systems.
Cowpea Seed Innovation Platform: A Hope for Small Seed Producers in Mali
Authors: Kouyate Zoumana , Dao Kléouforo M. , Togola Oumar , Malle Abdoul Karim , Malle Oumar , Diakite Kaly , Traore Abdoulaye
Published: January 2021

Cowpea is a food crop of great importance to the people of Mali due to its contribution to food security, improvement of producers’ incomes, a price that is higher than that of cereals, and an important role in social relationships. However, the availability of good quality seeds is a major constraint to its production and productivity. As seeds are the key input in agriculture, an innovation platform has been established at the Cinzana Agronomic Research Station in May 2016 to improve the production and distribution of cowpea seeds in Mali. It brings together farmers, distributors, transporters, financial and technical services, and NGOs. This ensures greater sharing of information and knowledge among the different actors involved in the cowpea seed value chain. Two bodies of governance were set up: Program Planning Committee and Executive Office. Significant results have been achieved in three years of existence: the number of varieties used has increased from 5 to 12. The amount of foundation seeds produced annually has increased from 1 t to more than 20 t. The sales strategy in small packs proved very effective by reaching more farmers. Promotional activities involved 25 training sessions for 1097 farmers in different aspects of the value chain and 299 demonstrations, involving 2934 producers and benefiting 12193 farmers.
A Cross-Case Analysis of Innovation Platform Experiences in Seven Countries in West and East Africa and South Asia
Authors: Monyo Emmanuel S. , Akpo Essegbemon , Ojiewo Chris O. , Varshney Rajeev K.
Published: January 2021

The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) funded Tropical Legumes (TL III) project was implemented in seven sub-Saharan Africa countries (Burkina Faso, Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Uganda) and South Asia (India). Shortage of seed of improved varieties has been identified as the greatest hindrance to farmer adoption of new agricultural technologies developed through this project. This chapter compares the different approaches followed by different countries in the establishment of Multi-Stakeholder Platforms (MSPs) for supply of improved legume seed to farmers. Achievements from this initiative are mixed and multi-dimensional. The details herein provide the reader with insights on the level of success of innovation platforms in the different countries and implications for agricultural technology dissemination to smallholder farmers. Key achievements include strengthened linkages among various legume seed value chain actors, participation of several cadres of seed producers in a decentralized system resulting into significant increase in the production of certified and quality declared seed of legumes, and rapid adoption and use of newly released varieties by smallholder farmers. As for those areas where the initiative did not produce the desired results, it is a testament that unless a well thought-out inclusive and comprehensive approach which defines the critical roles of each player in the value chain is developed, current seed shortages will continue, eroding emerging market opportunities and good intentions of development partners. The reader is directed to individual chapters for details of the process followed by each country/crop in the establishment of MSPs, their composition, key achievements, challenges, and lessons for overall improvement of the national legume seed systems.
Gentle introduction to rigorous Renormalization Group: a worked fermionic example
Authors: Giuliani Alessandro , Mastropietro Vieri , Rychkov Slava
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Much of our understanding of critical phenomena is based on the notion of Renormalization Group (RG), but the actual determination of its fixed points is usually based on approximations and truncations, and predictions of physical quantities are often of limited accuracy. The RG fixed points can be however given a fully rigorous and non- perturbative characterization, and this is what is presented here in a model of symplectic fermions with a nonlocal (“long-range”) kinetic term depending on a parameterεand a quartic interaction. We identify the Banach space of interactions, which the fixed point belongs to, and we determine it via a convergent approximation scheme. The Banach space is not limited to relevant interactions, but it contains all possible irrelevant terms with short-ranged kernels, decaying like a stretched exponential at large distances. As the model shares a number of features in common withϕ4or Ising models, the result can be used as a benchmark to test the validity of truncations and approximations in RG studies. The analysis is based on results coming from Constructive RG to which we provide a tutorial and self-contained introduction. In addition, we prove that the fixed point is analytic inε, a somewhat surprising fact relying on the fermionic nature of the problem.
IGCCCG-Fehlklassifikation (International Germ Cell Consensus Classification) durch zeitlich inkorrekte Interpretation der Serumkonzentration der Tumormarker bei metastasierten testikulären Keimzelltumoren
Authors: Paffenholz Pia , Nestler Tim , Maatoug Yasmine , von Brandenstein Melanie , Köditz Barbara , Pfister David , Heidenreich Axel
Published: January 2021

Hintergrund

Das Klassifikationssystem zur Prognoseeinschätzung der International Germ Cell Cancer Cooperative Group (IGCCCG) für testikuläre Keimzelltumoren basiert auf dem histologischen Subtyp, der Lokalisation des Primärtumors und der Metastasen sowie der Serumkonzentrationen der Tumormarker vor Chemotherapie.

Fragestellung

Ziel der Arbeit war die Evaluation des Einflusses der Verwendung der Tumormarkerserumkonzentrationen vor Ablatio testis im Vergleich zu denen vor Chemotherapie im Hinblick auf die Eingruppierung entsprechend der IGCCCG-Klassifikation.

Material und Methoden

Wir führen eine retrospektive Datenanalyse an 135 Patienten mit metastasiertem testikulärem Keimzelltumor durch, die eine Primärtherapie mit einer Chemotherapie erhalten haben. Es erfolgte die Analyse von klinischen Parametern mit Fokus auf der Tumormarkerserumkonzentration vor Ablatio testis und vor Chemotherapie, die zur Eingruppierung in eine Prognosegruppe entsprechend der IGCCCG-Klassifikation führten.

Ergebnisse

Die Verwendung der Tumormarkerserumkonzentrationen zur Berechnung der IGCCCG-Klassifikation vor der Ablatio testis im Vergleich zu denen vor Chemotherapie führte bei 8 % (11/135) aller Patienten zu einer veränderten Prognosegruppe sowie daraus folgend nicht-leitliniengerechten Therapieschemata. Es zeigt sich ein „up-staging“ bei 8 der 11 Patienten und somit 6 % (8/135) der gesamten Patientenkohorte, d. h. die Serumkonzentrationen der Tumormarker sind nach Ablatio bis zum Beginn der Chemotherapie abgefallen. Bei 3 der 11 Patienten bzw. 2 % (3/135) der gesamten Patientenkohorte, kam es zu einem „down-staging“, d. h. die Tumormarker sind bis zum Beginn der Chemotherapie angestiegen.

Diskussion

Die Verwendung der Tumormarkerserumkonzentrationen vor Ablatio testis im Vergleich zu denen vor Chemotherapie kann zu einer signifikanten IGCCCG-Fehlklassifikation und somit inkorrekter Therapie führen. Für ein leitlinienkonformes „staging“ der Patienten sollten folglich die Tumormarker vor der Chemotherapie verwendet werden.
Walking worker vs fixed worker assembly considering the impact of components exposure on assembly time and energy expenditure
Authors: Calzavara Martina , Faccio Maurizio , Persona Alessandro , Zennaro Ilenia
Published: January 2021

Recently, the need for assembly systems of better following the market demand has led to the spread of alternative solutions with respect to the traditional fixed worker strategy. Walking worker systems, where operators move across the line to produce the finished product, are gaining always more interest. In this paper, a comparison between the fixed worker (FW) and the walking worker (WW) assembly strategies is provided, by taking into account their differences both in terms of performed activities during assembly and of material exposure at the assembly workstations. The evaluation is carried out through the proposal of a mathematical model, to understand the impact on assembly time and on operators’ energy expenditure. The behavior of the model is investigated both with a parametric analysis and a real case study. The results show that the FW is the best one when the system is working at its maximum throughput, while the WW strategy turns out to be preferable for the lower values of market demand, both from a time and an energy expenditure perspective.
Managing Multiple Mobile Resources
Authors: Feldkord Björn , Knollmann Till , Malatyali Manuel , Heide Friedhelm Meyer auf der
Published: January 2021

We extend the Mobile Server problem introduced in Feldkord and Meyer auf der Heide (TOPC 6(3), 14:1–14:17 2019) to a model where k identical mobile resources, here named servers, answer requests appearing at points in the Euclidean space. To reduce communication costs, the positions of the servers can be adapted by a limited distance ms per round for each server. The costs are measured similarly to the classical Page Migration problem: i.e., answering a request induces costs proportional to the distance to the nearest server, and moving a server induces costs proportional to the distance multiplied with a weight D. We show that, in our model, no online algorithm can have a constant competitive ratio: i.e., one which is independent of the input length n, even if an augmented moving distance of (1 + δ)ms is allowed for the online algorithm. Therefore we investigate a restriction of the power of the adversary dictating the sequence of requests: We demand locality of requests: i.e., that consecutive requests come from points in the Euclidean space with distance bounded by some constant mc. We show constant lower bounds on the competitiveness in this setting (independent of n, but dependent on k, ms and mc). On the positive side, we present a deterministic online algorithm with bounded competitiveness when an augmented moving distance and locality of requests is assumed. Our algorithm simulates any given algorithm for the classical k-Page Migration problem as guidance for its servers and extends it by a greedy move of one server in every round. The resulting competitive ratio is polynomial in the number of servers k, the ratio between mc and ms, the inverse of the augmentation factor 1/δ and the competitive ratio of the simulated k-Page Migration algorithm. We also show how to directly adapt the Double Coverage algorithm (Chrobak et al. SIAM J. Discrete Math. 4(2), 172–181 11) for the k-Server problem to receive an algorithm with improved competitiveness on the line.
Residual stresses in hot bulk formed parts: two-scale approach for austenite-to-martensite phase transformation
Authors: Uebing Sonja , Brands Dominik , Scheunemann Lisa , Schröder Jörg
Published: January 2021

In production engineering, current research focuses on the induction of targeted residual stress states in components in order to improve their properties. Therein, the combination of experiment and simulation plays an important role. In this contribution, a focus is laid on the investigation of hot forming processes with subsequent cooling. A numerical approach is presented to analyze the distribution of residual stresses resulting from cooling of a cylinder with an eccentric hole made of chromium-alloyed steel. The occurring phase transformation, which is evoked by cooling, is considered in order to compute residual stress distributions inside the material.
Information stored in memory affects abductive reasoning
Authors: Klichowicz Anja , Lippoldt Daniela Eileen , Rosner Agnes , Krems Josef F.
Published: January 2021

Abductive reasoning describes the process of deriving an explanation from given observations. The theory of abductive reasoning (TAR; Johnson and Krems, Cognitive Science 25:903–939, 2001) assumes that when information is presented sequentially, new information is integrated into a mental representation, a situation model, the central data structure on which all reasoning processes are based. Because working memory capacity is limited, the question arises how reasoning might change with the amount of information that has to be processed in memory. Thus, we conducted an experiment (N = 34) in which we manipulated whether previous observation information and previously found explanations had to be retrieved from memory or were still visually present. Our results provide evidence that people experience differences in task difficulty when more information has to be retrieved from memory. This is also evident in changes in the mental representation as reflected by eye tracking measures. However, no differences are found between groups in the reasoning outcome. These findings suggest that individuals construct their situation model from both information in memory as well as external memory stores. The complexity of the model depends on the task: when memory demands are high, only relevant information is included. With this compensation strategy, people are able to achieve similar reasoning outcomes even when faced with tasks that are more difficult. This implies that people are able to adapt their strategy to the task in order to keep their reasoning successful.
New Approach to Distinguish Copper Molten Marks Based on Quantitative Microstructure Analysis Using Electron Backscatter Diffraction
Authors: Park Jinyoung , Kang Joo-Hee , Lee Eui Pyeong , Ko Young Ho , Bang Sun Bae
Published: January 2021

Molten marks identified at a fire site can aid in determining the cause of a fire. Quantitative analysis of such molten marks has not yet been reported, despite several identification methods for molten marks being proposed based on optical micrographs. Herein, we propose a new methodology to establish the quantitative microstructure parameters of the molten marks using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The globules were generated by heating the copper conductor to 1100°C in a non-energized state. Then, the arc beads were prepared by shorting the copper wire at 25°C and 900°C in an energized state. The globules did not show evident demarcation lines and indicated that the microstructure consisted of globular or dendritic grains; this demonstrated that their characteristics were distinctly different from those of arc beads. However, the primary arc beads (PABs) shorted at 25°C exhibited a strong (001) texture perpendicular to the demarcation line and comprised large fractions of columnar grains with a small grain aspect ratio (GAR). The microstructure of secondary arc beads (SABs) shorted at 900°C presented a mixture of elongated and equiaxed grains with a large GAR and no specific development of texture. The GAR and (001) fraction perpendicular to the demarcation line could be discriminant parameters of PABs and SABs. Consequently, EBSD methods can be newly applied for the classification of globules, PABs, and SABs based on the quantitative microstructure information and orientation distribution.
Prospective Intention-Based Lifestyle Contracts: mHealth Technology and Responsibility in Healthcare
Authors: Feng-Gu Emily , Everett Jim , Brown Rebecca C. H. , Maslen Hannah , Oakley Justin , Savulescu Julian
Published: January 2021

As the rising costs of lifestyle-related diseases place increasing strain on public healthcare systems, the individual’s role in disease may be proposed as a healthcare rationing criterion. Literature thus far has largely focused on retrospective responsibility in healthcare. The concept of prospective responsibility, in the form of a lifestyle contract, warrants further investigation. The responsibilisation in healthcare debate also needs to take into account innovative developments in mobile health technology, such as wearable biometric devices and mobile apps, which may change how we hold others accountable for their lifestyles. Little is known about public attitudes towards lifestyle contracts and the use of mobile health technology to hold people responsible in the context of healthcare. This paper has two components. Firstly, it details empirical findings from a survey of 81 members of the United Kingdom general public on public attitudes towards individual responsibility and rationing healthcare, prospective and retrospective responsibility, and the acceptability of lifestyle contracts in the context of mobile health technology. Secondly, we draw on the empirical findings and propose a model of prospective intention-based lifestyle contracts, which is both more aligned with public intuitions and less ethically objectionable than more traditional, retrospective models of responsibility in healthcare.
Exploring explanations for the gender gap in study abroad: a case study of the Netherlands
Authors: Van Mol Christof
Published: January 2021

The overrepresentation of female students in study abroad programmes across the Western world represents one of the major gaps in scientific research on study abroad. In this paper, I explore possible theoretical and empirical explanations, drawing on Personal Investment Theory and investigating study abroad motivations and decisions of a nationally representative sample of higher education students in the Netherlands between 2006 and 2015. The analyses specifically focus on the role of parents, academic self-concept and perceived goals in female and male students decision-making process to participate in study abroad programmes. The results reveal that maternal educational attainment level potentially plays a crucial role in explaining the decision-making process of both male and female students, as well as in explaining the overrepresentation of female students. The findings indicate that female students whose mothers have a medium educational attainment level are more likely to study abroad for exploration motives, whereas female students with lower educated mothers are more motivated by professional development purposes. As such, the results suggest mothers might motivate their daughters to study abroad in order to achieve intergenerational social mobility. Together, the presented findings offer fresh theoretical and empirical explanations of the gender gap in study abroad. Furthermore, the generated insights open up new directions for future research, indicating particularly the potential of social reproduction theories for explaining the gender gap in study abroad.
Unlocking the Recovery Potential: JMJD3 Inhibition-Mediated SAPK/JNK Signaling Inactivation Supports Endogenous Oligodendrocyte-Lineage Commitment Post Mammalian Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Bo-Yin Zhang , Qingsan Zhu , Yihang Ma , Fan Yang , Yuhang Zhu , Pengyu Chang
Published: January 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) induced catastrophic neurological disability is often incurable at present. The injury triggered immediately oligodendrocytes loss and overwhelming demyelination are regarded as an insurmountable barrier to SCI recovery. To date, effective strategy to promote the endogenous oligodendrocytes replacement post SCI remains elusive. Epigenetic modifications are emerging as critical molecular switches of gene expression in CNS. However, the epigenetic mechanisms underlying oligodendrogenesis post SCI yet to be discovered. In this study, we report that H3K27me3 demethylase JMJD3 exists as a pivotal epigenetic regulator which manipulates the endogenous oligodendrogenesis post SCI. We found that JMJD3 inhibition promotes the oligodendrocyte linage commitment of neural stem/progenitor cells (NPCs) in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, we demonstrated that JMJD3 inhibition mediated SAPK/JNK signaling inactivation is functionally necessary for endogenous oligodendrocyte-lineage commitment post SCI. Our results also suggested that JMJD3 is downstream of SAPK/JNK pathway, and capable of translates SCI induced SAPK/JNK signaling into epigenetic codes readable by spinal cord endogenous NPCs. Taken together, our findings provide novel evidence of JMJD3 mediated oligodendrocyte-lineage commitment orchestration post SCI, which would be a potential epigenetic approach to induce the mature mammalian endogenous recovery.
Advances in Drug Therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Zhu Chuan-cong , Fu Si-yu , Chen Yu-xin , Li Ling , Mao Ruo-lin , Wang Jian-zhi , Liu Rong , Liu Yi , Wang Xiao-chuan
Published: January 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that mainly causes dementia. It is a serious threat to the health of the global elderly population. Considerable money and effort has been invested in the development of drug therapy for AD worldwide. Many drug therapies are currently under development or in clinical trials, based on two known mechanisms of AD, namely, Aβ toxicity and the abnormal Tau hyperphosphorylation. Numerous drugs are also being developed for other AD associated mechanisms such as neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter imbalance, oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction, neuron loss and degeneration. Even so, the number of drugs that can successfully improve symptoms or delay the progression of the disease remains very limited. However, multi-drug combinations may provide a new avenue for drug therapy for AD. In addition, early diagnosis of AD and timely initiation of treatment may allow drugs that act on the early pathological processes of AD to help improve the symptoms and prevent the progression of the condition.
Implications to the electricity system of Paraguay of different demand scenarios and export prices to Brazil
Authors: Pappis Ioannis , Centurion Carlos , Ramos Eunice Pereira , Howells Mark , Ulloa Silvia , Ortigoza Eduardo , Gardel-Sotomayor Pedro E. , Alfstad Thomas
Published: January 2021

Paraguay's power system is based entirely on hydropower. It serves as the largest net electricity exporter in Latin America. Nonetheless, the country´s electricity consumption per capita is one of the lowest in the world and the transmission and distribution network has one of the highest losses in Latin America. This paper presents an electricity expansion investment outlook (2018–2040) for Paraguay using OSeMOSYS, analyzing three electricity demand scenarios under different electricity export prices to Brazil. The study identifies the least-cost power generation mix, future investments and the financial requirements to meet the needs of different demand scenarios. We find that Paraguay will need to invest in hydropower plants, by mainly expanding the capacity of Yacyreta to cover its electricity needs and sustain national electricity exports levels. In the High demand scenario, where the electricity demand could approximately double by 2040, the country's overall electricity exports decrease by 50% compared to the Reference scenario. Based on the different scenarios examined, the government spends approximately 18.3–31.2 billion USD on power plant investments for the period 2018–2040 to cover future electricity demand. The findings could be useful in supporting decision-making concerning socio-economic development pathways in the country.
The modal status of the laws of nature. Tahko’s hybrid view and the kinematical/dynamical distinction
Authors: Hirèche Salim , Linnemann Niels , Michels Robert , Vogt Lisa
Published: January 2021

In a recent paper, Tuomas Tahko has argued for a hybrid view of the laws of nature, according to which some physical laws are metaphysically necessary, while others are metaphysically contingent. In this paper, we show that his criterion for distinguishing between these two kinds of laws — which crucially relies on the essences of natural kinds — is on its own unsatisfactory. We then propose an alternative way of drawing the metaphysically necessary/contingent distinction for laws of physics based on the central kinematical/dynamical distinction used in physical theorising, and argue that the criterion can be used to amend Tahko’s own account, but also that it can be combined with different metaphysical views about the source of necessity.
Regulating the Nb2C nanosheets with different degrees of oxidation in water lubricated sliding toward an excellent tribological performance
Authors: Cheng Hao , Zhao Wenjie
Published: January 2021

Novel two-dimensional (2D) Nb2C nanosheets were successfully prepared through a simple lultrasonic and magnetic stirring treatment from the original accordion-like powder. To further study their water-lubrication properties and deal with common oxidation problems, Nb2C nanosheets with different oxidation degrees were prepared and achieved long-term stability in deionized water. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning probe microscope (SPM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Raman, and X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) experiments were utilized to characterize the structure, morphology, and dispersion of Nb2C nanosheets with different degrees of oxidation. The tribological behaviors of Nb2C with different degrees of oxidation as additives for water lubrication were characterized using a UMT-3 friction testing machine. The wear scars formed on the 316 steel surface were measured using three-dimensional (3D) laser scanning confocal microscopy. The tribological results showed that a moderately oxidized Nb2C nanosheet, which owned the composition of Nb2C/Nb2O5/C, displayed excellent tribological performance, with the friction coefficient (COF) decreasing by 90.3% and a decrease in the wear rate by 73.1% compared with pure water. Combining the TEM and Raman spectra, it was shown that Nb2O5 nanoparticles filled in the worn zone, and the layered Nb2C and C were adsorbed into the surface of the friction pair to form a protective lubricating film. This combined action resulted in an excellent lubricating performance.
Banana pseudostem substitution in wheat flour biscuits enriches the nutritional and antioxidative properties with considerable acceptability
Authors: Chakraborty Rakhi , Sabruna Sanjida , Roy Rumeli , Majumdar Sukanta , Roy Swarnendu
Published: January 2021

Biscuits prepared from composite flours substituted with unconventional plant resources have been considered important for enriching the overall nutritional quality. The present study was undertaken to explore the potential of banana pseudostem flour for the valorization of wheat flour biscuits. At the same time, the study attempts to address the problem of bioresource wastage as huge amounts of banana pseudostem are wasted every year after harvesting of the fruits. In this study, composite flours were prepared by partially substituting wheat flour with banana pseudostem core flour (BPF10, BPF20, BPF30) in different proportions (10, 20, 30% w/w), and biscuits were prepared from these composite flour formulations. Analyses of the physicochemical properties, pasting properties, colour and texture, quantification of phytochemicals and antioxidant properties, and overall sensory evaluation of the flours and biscuits were performed for comparative evaluation. BPF-substituted composite flours showed higher moisture and ash content, pasting temperature and water and oil absorption capacity. BPF-fortified biscuits were found to be rich in ash content, protein, proline, antioxidative phytochemicals, viz. phenols, flavonoids, tannins, ascorbate, and alkaloids, whereas fat, moisture content, and viscosity were comparatively lower than that of the control (wheat flour biscuits). Significant free radical scavenging activities of the BPF-substituted biscuits were also observed. Colour and texture analysis showed desirable changes in lightness (L*), yellowness (b*), chroma (C*), fracturability, and hardness of the BPF-substituted biscuits. Most importantly, considering the sensory characteristics like taste and crispiness, control and BPF10 biscuits were highly comparable. Therefore, the formulation of BPF-substituted biscuits presents an effective way to utilize banana pseudostems, which is also rich in nutraceutical and antioxidative properties.
Selection of prime mover to meet heating demand of a single effect absorption chiller based on laws of thermodynamics
Authors: Mohammadian Korouyeh M. , Saidi M. H. , Najafi M. , Aghanajafi C.
Published: January 2021

In this study the first and the second laws of thermodynamics are evaluated for a single effect absorption chiller. Entropy generation and COP are selected as the objective functions and their variations are studied by varying the generator temperature for various condensing temperatures. For this purpose, the enthalpy and the entropy data of the super-heated steam, saturated steam and the saturated water are formulated in the mathematical equations. Also to provide the required steam of generator, prime mover in the form of internal combustion engine is applied and its partial load conditions are analyzed. A residential tower is considered as the case study for selecting the proper prime mover capacity. The number of prime movers is estimated based on the required heating power of the generator steam for each partial load. It is seen, the entropy generation would be decreased rapidly by increasing the generator temperature and after a while, the entropy generation would be approximately constant. The optimum entropy generation for each condensing temperature and the generator temperature may be decreased by increasing the evaporator temperature. It is deduced that COP is increased rapidly by increasing the generator temperature but in the following, the COP will be constant. The maximum amount of COP is decreased by increasing the condensing temperature. Also the COP is increased by increasing evaporator temperature for a certain generator and condensing temperatures.
Numerical investigation of vortex formation in water intake system of a pumping station during low and high tides
Authors: Sabouki Mahdi Mahmoudi , Bahrainian Seyed Saied , Behbahani-Nejad Morteza
Published: January 2021

The performance of pumps installed in pumping stations depends greatly on vortex formation at pipe intakes. Using numerical simulations and experimental methods, this study focuses on vortex formation in water intake system of a pumping station under the tidal conditions of the Bahmanshir River. The intake system consisted of a suction pipe and a fine intake screen. Realizable k–ε turbulence model together with volume of fluid (VOF) two-phase (water–air) model are used to simulate the flow field in the water intake system. Vortex formation, flow pattern and flow uniformity are investigated. Water levels and free surface velocities of the river are measured in a 1-year period. The water levels range from 2.1 to 4.9 m and the corresponding free surface velocity varies from 1.05 to 2.35 m/s. The numerical results show that two wall-attached vortices permanently stretched to the intake screen. Additionally, two symmetrical vortices with different intensities formed in the intake screen. As the submergence of the intake pipe decreases during low tides, stronger vortices arise in the screen. Analysis of the velocity uniformity shows low level of flow uniformity at the pump intake. Low level of uniformity is attributed to the existence of the intake screen and its check valve, which facilitates the formation of vortices in the suction pipe. Based on present analysis, recommendations for modifications and improvements to the design of the pumping station are presented.
Using 3D printing to fabricate realistic test projectiles for natural fragmentation from buried charges
Authors: Hodder K. J. , Coghe F. , Kechagiadakis G. , Chalaturnyk R. J.
Published: January 2021

Buried charges such as improvised explosive devices continue to be one of the most lethal and hidden threats service members face. On detonation, ground debris near the blast area is accelerated towards service members as secondary fragmentation, consisting of sand, gravel and rocks. In order to mitigate injury, protective equipment can be worn, yet it is difficult to gather accurate data for engineering decisions when the standard test uses a fragment simulating projectile made from metal. It is difficult to test secondary fragmentation from ground debris due to the natural heterogeneity and variance of the material. A methodical and reproducible method of testing fragmentation damage from ground debris was developed to study and improve protective equipment against natural secondary fragmentation. We present herein the novel process of 3D-printing ballistic projectiles from silica sand, followed by launching with an air canon. Outlined within are the successes, challenges and proposed implementations of the technology. The 3D-printed sand projectiles achieved speeds over 170 m/s, resulting in measurable damage to single Kevlar sheets. Other flight parameters such as yaw and rotation were captured, resulting in observations about design and shape of the projectiles. It was found that one design performed better in terms of velocity, rotation and impact. The technology has the potential to disrupt the protective equipment sector by providing a controlled means of assessing natural fragmentation damage.
Corporate Responsibility for Wealth Creation and Human Rights
Authors: Enderle Georges
Published: January 2021

Georges Enderle proposes a radically new understanding of corporate responsibility in the global and pluralistic context. This book introduces a framework that integrates the ideas of wealth creation and human rights, which is illustrated by multiple corporate examples, and provides a sharp critique of the maximizing shareholder value ideology. By defining the purpose of business enterprises as creating wealth in a comprehensive sense, encompassing natural, economic, human and social capital while respecting human rights, Enderle draws attention to the fundamental importance of public wealth, without which private wealth cannot be created. This framework further identifies the limitations of the market institution and self-regarding motivations by demonstrating that the creation of public wealth requires collective actors and other-regarding motivations. In line with the UN's Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, this book provides clear ethical guidance for businesses around the world and a strong voice against human right violations, especially in repressive and authoritarian regimes and populist and discriminatory environments.
Intimate Partner Homicides: “Passionate Crime” Arguments in the Portuguese Supreme Court of Justice
Authors: Pontedeira Cátia , Quintas Jorge , Walklate Sandra
Published: January 2021

Intimate partner homicides are often described as “passionate crimes”. While most sentencing studies focus on the analysis of the impact of specific characteristics of the offender, victim or the crime in sentencing, this study aims to analyse how “passionate crimes” are described in the Portuguese Supreme Court of Justice outcomes. From a qualitative analysis of 24 sentences, it is possible to conclude that passion is often related to jealousy, describing out-of-control offenders, arguments about cold-minded actions versus premeditated actions, and when describing prevention needs involved in sentencing these crimes. The defence often raises arguments minimising the gravity of the homicide due to strong “passion” emotion, but the Supreme Court of Justice has been declining most of them. The fact that most of these crimes are premeditated and actions happen with a “cold mind” also inhibits the “hot-blooded” “passionate” excuse for the crime. Results suggest that the Supreme Court of Justice is increasingly concerned about the necessity of preventing intimate partner homicides given its gravity and social impact.
Feminine-specific job titles: a research on sexism in the Italian language
Authors: Nitti Paolo
Published: January 2021

This article analyses the instruction on non-sexist use of the Italian language given by Italian language teachers at different levels of education (Nitti 2018). The objective of the research is to evaluate, via language models presented in class, the preparation of materials, and attitudes to correction, the level of engagement in the use of non-sexist language by teachers who transfer their personal orientation into their teaching practice. The survey was conceived as a follow-up to the Conference on Italian Language and Sexism, held at the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia on 30 March 2017. Questions were formulated following Raccomandazioni per gli usi non sessisti della lingua by Alma Sabatini (1986) and proposals by academic institutions and territorial and legislative bodies. The research falls within the study of educational linguistics, and its aim is to approach contemporary linguistic phenomena through specific theoretical-applicative tools and paradigms of sociolinguistics (Fusco 2012).
The Ties that (Un)Bind: Change and Organizational Commitment in Ukraine
Authors: Stewart Wayne H. , May Ruth C. , Scott Kristin L. , Ingram Amy E.
Published: January 2021

Recognizing the need for organizational change in a transition setting, we specify a research model entailing the effects of two important workplace variables on the relationship between dispositional resistance to change and organizational commitment. Organizational commitment is important because of its relationship with a host of considerations relevant to successful organizational change and development. We test the model with samples from four Ukrainian firms undergoing comparable substantive change, including in their human resource systems. The results indicate that the negative relationship between resistance to change and organization commitment is moderated by trust in management. Specifically, it is the lack of trust that exacerbates the negative influence of resistance to change on commitment. Also, high procedural justice strengthens the negative relationship, thereby reducing organizational commitment, an interesting divergence from the Western literature. These indigenous findings in a markedly different context from the West hold potential for theory that is richer and more comprehensive in its explanatory reach. The findings also provide useful insights for managers in Ukraine in their efforts to change organizational practices.
ASPECTS OF THE CREED OF IMAM AHMAD IBN HANBAL: A STUDY OF ANTHROPOMORPHISM IN EARLY ISLAMIC DISCOURSE
Authors: Williams Wesley
Published: January 2021

Today, the religion of Islam is most distinctly characterized by the emphasis it places on the transcendence of God.1 God's otherness (mukhālafa), it is said, is presupposed in Islamic thinking from the Qurءan.2 A review of the history of dogmatic development in Islam reveals, however, that during the formative period—that is, the period to about 9503—divine transcendence was only one alternative among several models attempting to explain God's unity. Indeed, it coexisted alongside its antithesis, “assimilation” (tashbīh), or as we term it, anthropomorphism.4 Muslim and Western scholars agree that, although the anthropomorphist model certainly existed—the various heresiographies attest to it—it existed only on the margins of Islam, in the extravagant fancies of a few deviant doctors.5 Thus, anthropomorphist ideas were relevant only marginally, if at all, to Islam's attempt at theological self-definition. Such, at least, is the current scholarly consensus. But how accurate is this reading of Islam's theological history?
Induced abortion in Ghana: prevalence and associated factors
Authors: Baruwa Ololade Julius , Amoateng Acheampong Yaw , Biney Elizabeth
Published: January 2021

The termination of unwanted pregnancies is a growing health-related issue around the world. This study used the 2017 Ghana Maternal Health Survey to examine the factors associated with the prevalence of induced abortion in Ghana. The study sample included 18,116 women of reproductive age who had a pregnancy in the 5 years preceding the survey. A multivariate logistic regression technique was applied. The prevalence of induced abortion was higher among women aged 25–34 years, those who had secondary-level education, those living in urban areas and in the Ashanti region, those of Akan ethnicity and those belonging to non-Catholic Christian denominations. Moreover, the prevalence was higher among single women, those who had no children, those who started sexual intercourse before the age of 18, those who were currently using a contraceptive, those exposed to media and those who knew about the legality of abortion. The multivariate analysis found that education, place and region of residence, marital status, ethnicity, current contraceptive use, religion, age at sexual debut, media exposure and knowledge about abortion legality were all significant predictors of induced abortion among women in Ghana. The study findings support a call for action to strengthen family planning services and educational programmes on induced abortion in Ghana to reach the target groups identified.