bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Determinants of Oncomelania hupensis Habitats and Assessing the Effects of Environmental Control Strategies in the Plain Regions with the Waterway Network of China at the Microscale
Authors: Qiu Juan , Li Rendong , Xu Xingjian , Yu Chuanhua , Xia Xin , Hong Xicheng , Chang Bianrong , Yi Fengjia , Shi Yuanyuan
Published: June 2014

This study aims to identify the landscape ecological determinants related to Oncomelania hupensis distribution, map the potential high risk of O. hupensis habitats at the microscale, and assess the effects of two environmental control strategies. Sampling was performed on 242 snail sites and 726 non-snail sites throughout Qianjiang City, Hubei Province, China. An integrated approach of landscape pattern analysis coupled with multiple logistic regression modeling was applied to investigate the effects of environmental factors on snail habitats. The risk probability of snail habitats positively correlated with patch fractal dimension (FD), paddy farm land proportion, and wetness index but inversely correlated with categorized normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and elevation. These findings indicate that FD can identify irregular features (e.g., irrigation ditches) in plain regions and that a moderate NDVI increases the microscale risk probability. Basing on the observed determinants, we predicted a map showing high-risk areas of snail habitats and simulated the effects of conduit hardening and paddy farming land rotation to dry farming land. The two approaches were confirmed effective for snail control. These findings provide an empirical basis for health professionals in local schistosomiasis control stations to identify priority areas and promising environmental control strategies for snail control and prevention.
Generation and Analysis of Expressed Sequence Tags (ESTs) from Halophyte Atriplex canescens to Explore Salt-Responsive Related Genes
Authors: Li Jingtao , Sun Xinhua , Yu Gang , Jia Chengguo , Liu Jinliang , Pan Hongyu
Published: June 2014

Little information is available on gene expression profiling of halophyte A. canescens. To elucidate the molecular mechanism for stress tolerance in A. canescens, a full-length complementary DNA library was generated from A. canescens exposed to 400 mM NaCl, and provided 343 high-quality ESTs. In an evaluation of 343 valid EST sequences in the cDNA library, 197 unigenes were assembled, among which 190 unigenes (83.1% ESTs) were identified according to their significant similarities with proteins of known functions. All the 343 EST sequences have been deposited in the dbEST GenBank under accession numbers JZ535802 to JZ536144. According to Arabidopsis MIPS functional category and GO classifications, we identified 193 unigenes of the 311 annotations EST, representing 72 non-redundant unigenes sharing similarities with genes related to the defense response. The sets of ESTs obtained provide a rich genetic resource and 17 up-regulated genes related to salt stress resistance were identified by qRT-PCR. Six of these genes may contribute crucially to earlier and later stage salt stress resistance. Additionally, among the 343 unigenes sequences, 22 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) were also identified contributing to the study of A. canescens resources.
Reducing Friction and Wear of Tribological Systems through Hybrid Tribofilm Consisting of Coating and Lubricants
Authors: Yazawa Shuichiro , Minami Ichiro , Prakash Braham
Published: June 2014

The role of surface protective additives becomes vital when operating conditions become severe and moving components operate in a boundary lubrication regime. After protecting film is slowly removed by rubbing, it can regenerate through the tribochemical reaction of the additives at the contact. However, there are limitations about the regeneration of the protecting film when additives are totally consumed. On the other hand, there are a lot of hard coatings to protect the steel surface from wear. These can enable the functioning of tribological systems, even in adverse lubrication conditions. However, hard coatings usually make the friction coefficient higher, because of their high interfacial shear strength. Amongst hard coatings, diamond-like carbon (DLC) is widely used, because of its relatively low friction and superior wear resistance. In practice, conventional lubricants that are essentially formulated for a steel/steel surface are still used for lubricating machine component surfaces provided with protective coatings, such as DLCs, despite the fact that the surface properties of coatings are quite different from those of steel. It is therefore important that the design of additive molecules and their interaction with coatings should be re-considered. The main aim of this paper is to discuss the DLC and the additive combination that enable tribofilm formation and effective lubrication of tribological systems.
Manufacturing and Characterization of Ti6Al4V Lattice Components Manufactured by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Campanelli Sabina , Contuzzi Nicola , Ludovico Antonio , Caiazzo Fabrizia , Cardaropoli Francesco , Sergi Vincenzo
Published: June 2014

The paper investigates the fabrication of Selective Laser Melting (SLM) titanium alloy Ti6Al4V micro-lattice structures for the production of lightweight components. Specifically, the pillar textile unit cell is used as base lattice structure and alternative lattice topologies including reinforcing vertical bars are also considered. Detailed characterizations of dimensional accuracy, surface roughness, and micro-hardness are performed. In addition, compression tests are carried out in order to evaluate the mechanical strength and the energy absorbed per unit mass of the lattice truss specimens made by SLM. The built structures have a relative density ranging between 0.2234 and 0.5822. An optimization procedure is implemented via the method of Taguchi to identify the optimal geometric configuration which maximizes peak strength and energy absorbed per unit mass.
Catalytic Reactions over Halide Cluster Complexes of Group 5–7 Metals
Authors: Nagashima Sayoko , Kamiguchi Satoshi , Chihara Teiji
Published: June 2014

Halide clusters of Group 5–7 metals develop catalytic activity above 150–250 °C, and the activity is retained up to 350–450 °C by taking advantage of their thermal stability, low vapor pressure, and high melting point. Two types of active site function: the solid Brønsted acid site and a coordinatively unsaturated site that catalyzes like the platinum metals do. Various types of catalytic reactions including new reactions and concerted catalyses have been observed over the clusters: hydrogenation, dehydrogenation, hydrogenolysis, isomerization of alkene and alkyne, and alkylation of toluene, amine, phenol, and thiol. Ring-closure reactions to afford quinoline, benzofuran, indene, and heterocyclic common rings are also catalyzed. Beckmann rearrangement, S-acylation of thiol, and dehydrohalogenation are also catalyzed. Although the majority of the reactions proceed over conventional catalysts, closer inspection shows some conspicuous features, particularly in terms of selectivity. Halide cluster catalysts are characterized by some aspects: cluster counter anion is too large to abstract counter cation from the protonated reactants, cluster catalyst is not poisoned by halogen and sulfur atoms. Among others, cluster catalysts are stable at high temperatures up to 350–450 °C. At high temperatures, apparent activation energy decreases, and hence weak acid can be a catalyst without decomposing reactants.
Physico-Chemical Properties, Antioxidant Activity and Mineral Contents of Pineapple Genotypes Grown in China
Authors: Lu Xin-Hua , Sun De-Quan , Wu Qing-Song , Liu Sheng-Hui , Sun Guang-Ming
Published: June 2014

The fruit physico-chemical properties, antioxidant activity and mineral contents of 26 pineapple [Ananas comosus (L.) Merr.] genotypes grown in China were measured. The results showed great quantitative differences in the composition of these pineapple genotypes. Sucrose was the dominant sugar in all 26 genotypes, while citric acid was the principal organic acid. Potassium, calcium and magnesium were the major mineral constituents. The ascorbic acid (AsA) content ranged from 5.08 to 33.57 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW), while the total phenolic (TP) content varied from 31.48 to 77.55 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/100 g FW. The two parameters in the predominant cultivars Comte de Paris and Smooth Cayenne were relative low. However, MD-2 indicated the highest AsA and TP contents (33.57 mg/100 g and 77.55 mg GAE/100 g FM, respectively), and it also showed the strongest antioxidant capacity 22.85 and 17.30 μmol TE/g FW using DPPH and TEAC methods, respectively. The antioxidant capacity of pineapple was correlated with the contents of phenolics, flavonoids and AsA. The present study provided important information for the further application of those pineapple genotypes.
Mycelium-Bound Lipase from a Locally Isolated Strain of Geotrichum candidum
Authors: Loo Joo , Khoramnia Anahita , Lai Oi , Long Kamariah , Ghazali Hasanah
Published: June 2014

Mycelium-bound lipase (MBL), from a locally isolated Geotrichum candidum strain, was produced and characterized as a natural immobilized lipase. A time course study of its lipolytic activity in 1 L liquid broth revealed the maximum MBL activity at 4 h for mycelium cells harvested after 54 h. The yield and specific activity of MBL were 3.87 g/L dry weight and 508.33 U/g protein, respectively, while less than 0.2 U/mL lipase activity was detected in the culture supernatant. Prolonged incubation caused release of the bound lipase into the growth medium. The growth pattern of G. candidum, and production and properties of MBL were not affected by the scale. The stability of mycelia harboring lipase (MBL), harvested and lyophilized after 54 h, studied at 4 °C depicted a loss of 4.3% and 30% in MBL activity after 1 and 8 months, while the activity of free lipase was totally lost after 14 days of storage. The MBL from G. candidum displayed high substrate selectivity for unsaturated fatty acids containing a cis-9 double bond, even in crude form. This unique specificity of MBL could be a direct, simple and inexpensive way in the fats and oil industry for the selective hydrolysis or transesterification of cis-9 fatty acid residues in natural triacylglycerols.
First Quantification of Calcium Intake from Calcium-Dense Dairy Products in Dutch Fracture Patients (The Delft Cohort Study)
Authors: Van den Berg Peter , Van Haard Paul , Van den Bergh Joop , Niesten Dieu , Van der Elst Maarten , Schweitzer Dave
Published: June 2014

Recommendations for daily calcium intake from dairy products are variable and based on local consensus. To investigate whether patients with a recent fracture complied with these recommendations, we quantified the daily dairy calcium intake including milk, milk drinks, pudding, yoghurt, and cheese in a Dutch cohort of fracture patients and compared outcomes with recent data of a healthy U.S. cohort (80% Caucasians). An observational study analyzed dairy calcium intakes of 1526 female and 372 male Dutch fracture patients older than 50. On average, participants reported three dairy servings per day, independently of age, gender or population density. Median calcium intake from dairy was 790 mg/day in females and males. Based on dairy products alone, 11.3% of women and 14.2% of men complied with Dutch recommendations for calcium intake (adults ≤ 70 years: 1100 mg/day and >70 years: 1200 mg/day). After including 450 mg calcium from basic nutrition, compliance raised to 60.5% and 59.1%, respectively, compared to 53.2% in the U.S. cohort. Daily dairy calcium intake is not associated with femoral neck bone mineral density (BMD) T-scores or WHO Fracture Assessment Tool (FRAX) risk scores for major fracture or hip fracture. However, when sub analyzing the male cohort, these associations were weakly negative. The prevalence of maternal hip fracture was a factor for current fracture risks, both in women and men. While daily dairy calcium intake of Dutch fracture patients was well below the recommended dietary intake, it was comparable to intakes in a healthy U.S. cohort. This questions recommendations for adding more additional dairy products to preserve adult skeletal health, particularly when sufficient additional calcium is derived from adequate non-dairy nutrition.
A Study of the Effects of Latent Iron Deficiency on Measures of Cognition: A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial of Iron Supplementation in Young Women
Authors: Leonard Alecia , Chalmers Kerry , Collins Clare , Patterson Amanda
Published: June 2014

Rates of iron deficiency are high amongst healthy young women. Cognitive impairment occurs secondary to iron deficiency in infants and children, but evaluation of the impact on cognition among young women is inconsistent. The aim was to determine the suitability of the IntegNeuro test battery for assessing cognitive function in iron-deficient and iron-sufficient young women. A pilot double-blinded, placebo-controlled intervention trial was conducted in iron-deficient (serum ferritin ≤ 20 μg/L and haemoglobin > 120 g/L) and iron-sufficient young women (18–35 years). Cognitive function and haematological markers of iron status were measured at baseline and follow-up. Iron-deficient participants (n = 24) were randomised to receive placebo, 60 mg or 80 mg elemental iron daily supplements for 16 weeks. A control group of iron-sufficient participants (n = 8) was allocated to placebo. Change scores for Impulsivity and Attention were significantly greater in plasma ferritin improvers than in non-improvers (p = 0.004, p = 0.026). IntegNeuro was easy to administer and acceptable to young women. Based on the differences in Memory and Attention scores between iron-deficient participants on iron treatment and those on placebo, it was decided that between 26 and 84 participants would be required in each iron treatment group for an adequately powered extension of this pilot RCT.
Context Graphs as an Efficient and User-Friendly Method of Describing and Recognizing a Situation in AAL
Authors: Olaru Andrei , Florea Adina
Published: June 2014

In the field of ambient assisted living, the best results are achieved with systems that are less intrusive and more intelligent, that can easily integrate both formal and informal caregivers and that can easily adapt to the changes in the situation of the elderly or disabled person. This paper presents a graph-based representation for context information and a simple and intuitive method for situation recognition. Both the input and the results are easy to visualize, understand and use. Experiments have been performed on several AAL-specific scenarios.
Comparison of Expression of Secondary Metabolite Biosynthesis Cluster Genes in Aspergillus flavus, A. parasiticus, and A. oryzae
Authors: Ehrlich Kenneth , Mack Brian
Published: June 2014

Fifty six secondary metabolite biosynthesis gene clusters are predicted to be in the Aspergillus flavus genome. In spite of this, the biosyntheses of only seven metabolites, including the aflatoxins, kojic acid, cyclopiazonic acid and aflatrem, have been assigned to a particular gene cluster. We used RNA-seq to compare expression of secondary metabolite genes in gene clusters for the closely related fungi A. parasiticus, A. oryzae, and A. flavus S and L sclerotial morphotypes. The data help to refine the identification of probable functional gene clusters within these species. Our results suggest that A. flavus, a prevalent contaminant of maize, cottonseed, peanuts and tree nuts, is capable of producing metabolites which, besides aflatoxin, could be an underappreciated contributor to its toxicity.
Oligopeptides as Biomarkers of Cyanobacterial Subpopulations. Toward an Understanding of Their Biological Role
Authors: Agha Ramsy , Quesada Antonio
Published: June 2014

Cyanobacterial oligopeptides comprise a wide range of bioactive and/or toxic compounds. While current research is strongly focused on exploring new oligopeptide variants and their bioactive properties, the biological role of these compounds remains elusive. Oligopeptides production abilities show a remarkably patchy distribution among conspecific strains. This observation has prompted alternative approaches to unveil their adaptive value, based on the use of cellular oligopeptide compositions as biomarkers of intraspecific subpopulations or chemotypes in freshwater cyanobacteria. Studies addressing the diversity, distribution, and dynamics of chemotypes in natural systems have provided important insights into the structure and ecology of cyanobacterial populations and the adaptive value of oligopeptides. This review presents an overview of the fundamentals of this emerging approach and its most relevant findings, and discusses our current understanding of the role of oligopeptides in the ecology of cyanobacteria.
Genetic Diversity in HIV-1 Subtype C LTR from Brazil and Mozambique Generates New Transcription Factor-Binding Sites
Authors: Boullosa José , Bachu Mahesh , Bila Dulce , Ranga Udaykumar , Süffert Theodoro , Sasazawa Tomoko , Tanuri Amilcar
Published: June 2014

The HIV-1 subtype C has been substituting the subtype B population in southern Brazil. This phenomenon has been previously described in other countries, suggesting that subtype C may possess greater fitness than other subtypes. The HIV-1 long-terminal repeat (LTR) is an important regulatory region critical for the viral life cycle. Sequence insertions immediately upstream of the viral enhancer are known as the most frequent naturally occurring length polimorphisms (MFNLP). Previous reports demonstrated that the MFNLP could lead to the duplication of transcription factor binding sites (TFBS) enhancing the activity of the HIV-1 subtype C LTR. Here, we amplified and sequenced the LTR obtained from proviral DNA samples collected from patients infected with subtype C from the Southern Region of Brazil (naïve or treatment failure) and Mozambique (only naïve). We confirm the presence of different types of insertions in the LTR sequences of both the countries leading to the creation of additional TFBS. In the Brazilian clinical samples, the frequency of the sequence insertion was significantly higher in subjects experiencing treatment failure than in antiretroviral naïve patients.
Seroprevalence of Human Herpesvirus 8 and Hepatitis C Virus among Drug Users in Shanghai, China
Authors: Zhang Tiejun , Liu Ying , Zhang Yuyan , Wang Jun , Minhas Veenu , Wood Charles , He Na
Published: June 2014

To elucidate and compare the seroprevalence of human herpesvirus 8 (HHV8) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) among Chinese drug users, a cross-sectional study of 441 participants, was conducted in Shanghai, China, from 2012 through 2013. Seventy-seven (17.5%) participants were found to be positive for HHV8 antibodies, while 271 (61.5%) participants were positive for HCV. No significant association between HHV8 seropositivity and drug use characteristics, sexual behaviors, HCV, or syphilis was observed. In contrast, a statistically significant association between HCV seropositivity and injected drug history (OR, 2.18, 95% CI 1.41–3.37) was detected, whereas no statistically significant association between HCV seropositivity and syphilis infection (OR, 7.56, 95% CI 0.94–60.57) were observed. Pairwise comparisons showed no significant differences between latent and lytic antibodies regarding HCV and HHV8 serostatus. The study demonstrated a moderate but elevated prevalence of HHV8 infection among drug users. The discordance between HHV8 and HCV infections suggests that blood borne transmission of HHV8 might not be the predominant mode of transmission in this population, which is in contrast to HCV.
Interpersonal Trust, Organizational Culture, and Turnover Intention in Hotels: A Cross-Level Perspective
Authors: Ozturk Ahmet Bulent , Hancer Murat , Wang Yao-Chin
Published: June 2014

The aim of the present study was to understand the influence of interpersonal trust and organizational culture on employees' turnover intention. The data of the study were collected from 252 hotel employees in Turkey. Study results showed that both affective trust and cognitive trust were negatively related to hotel employees' turnover intention. Furthermore, clan organizational culture, adhocracy organizational culture, and market organizational culture were also negatively related to turnover intention of hotel employees. However, the results indicate that hierarchy organizational culture does not have a significant impact on hotel employees' turnover intention. The findings provide valuable theoretical and practical implications and suggestions for future research.
The Darker Side of Dark Tourism: An Authenticity Perspective
Authors: Heuermann Katie , Chhabra Deepak
Published: June 2014

This study examines content of dark tourism websites in the US. The purpose is to position the dark tourism sites on Stone's spectrum and identify the type of authenticity promoted by different dark tourism suppliers. Also, the intention is to discuss ramifications of the authenticity
stance pursued by dark sites in the context of deviant leisure. The results of this study make an important contribution to existing literature by examining the dark tourism spectrum from an authenticity perspective. They also offer important implications to dark tourism site managers. In
knowing where their site falls on the dark tourism spectrum and the type of authenticity it communicates, they can have a better understanding of how to market themselves in an ethical manner.
Popularity and Risks of Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMS) for Gamblers: The Case of Australia
Authors: Lee Timothy Jeonglyeol , Kim Hwa-Kyung
Published: June 2014

This article provides a brief history of electronic gaming machines (EGM) in Australia and examines why they are so popular in that country. The components and antecedents that have allowed EGMs to become so popular are highlighted. The risks of this form of gaming to individuals, families,
the community and government are evaluated, specifically the costs of problem gambling and the role EGMs have in this addictive behavior. Recommendations are provided that focus on assisting problem gamblers and consider EGM distribution, decreasing EGM revenue, altering payout ratios and
implementing harm minimization strategies with investigation of the current legislation. The study contributes to reducing the negative impacts of EGM and strengthening the benefits they can provide to the gaming industry in Australia and beyond.
Understanding Perceived Physical Risk: The Case of Japan
Authors: Nagai Hayato , Tkaczynski Aaron
Published: June 2014

Perceived risk is identified in the tourism literature as a major deterrent to a potential tourist's likelihood of visiting a destination. Although the physical-related problems that a tourist may encounter while traveling are discussed, research exploring tourist's perceptions of physical
perceived risk is limited. As a tourist's prime concern is to experience a destination's offerings with limited or no threats to their safety and well-being, it is essential to identify what represents perceived physical risk for tourism development and planning purposes. To address this research
gap, respondents studying in Australia with an interest in traveling to Japan were surveyed. Three factors that represented perceived physical risk were identified. Furthermore, this study determined that personal characteristics differentiated the students based on their perceived physical
risk factors. Theoretical and practical implications from this research are outlined and opportunities for future research are provided.
Key Factors for a High-Quality Peritoneal Dialysis Program — the Role of the PD Team and Continuous Quality Improvement
Authors: Fang Wei , Ni Zhaohui , Qian Jiaqi
Published: June 2014

The proportion of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD) has increased very fast in China over the last decade. Renji Hospital, affiliated with Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, is a recognized high-quality PD unit with a high PD utilization rate, excellent patient and technique survival (1-year and 5-year patient survival rate of 93% and 71%, and 1-year and 5-year technique survival of 96% and 82%, respectively), low peritonitis rate and a well-documented good quality of life of the treated patients. We believe that a dedicated and experienced PD team, a structured patient training program, continuous patient support, establishing and utilizing standardized protocols, starting PD with low dialysis dose, monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs), and continuous quality improvement (CQI) are the key factors underlying this successful PD program.
Optical modeling-assisted characterization of dye-sensitized solar cells using TiO2 nanotube arrays as photoanodes
Authors: Yun Jung-Ho , Kim Il Ku , Ng Yun Hau , Wang Lianzhou , Amal Rose
Published: June 2014

Photovoltaic characteristics of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) using TiO2 nanotube (TNT) arrays as photoanodes were investigated. The TNT arrays were 3.3, 11.5, and 20.6 μm long with the pore diameters of 50, 78.6, and 98.7 nm, respectively. The longest TNT array of 20.6 μm in length showed enhanced photovoltaic performances of 3.87% with significantly increased photocurrent density of 8.26 mA·cm−2. This improvement is attributed to the increased amount of the adsorbed dyes and the improved electron transport property with an increase in TNT length. The initial charge generation rate was improved from 4 × 1021 s−1·cm−3 to 7 × 1021 s−1·cm−3 in DSSCs based on optical modelling analysis. The modelling analysis of optical processes inside TNT-based DSSCs using generalized transfer matrix method (GTMM) revealed that the amount of dye and TNT lengths were critical factors influencing the performance of DSSCs, which is consistent with the experimental results.
PRECISE LEVELLING DATA PROCESSING NEAR TERRACED LANDFORMS
Authors: Talvik Silja
Published: June 2014

Precise levelling results are affected by the Earth’s gravity field, especially in areas of abrupt changes of landscape, such as terraced landforms. To eliminate the effect of the gravity field gradient, corrections need to be used in precise levelling data processing. To estimate the expected range of the correction due to the gravity field gradient (here called the gravimetric correction) within a region of terraced landforms, an experiment was proceeded in Estonia. Gravity data together with GNSS coordinates were acquired in 2011 in an area where a levelling section crosses the North Estonian Klint (height difference of 30 m within the levelling section). The gravimetric correction for the given 300 m long section proved to be 1.2 mm. Practically the same correction value can be obtained using interpolation of existing gravity data. However, in the case study area the gravity database had an extremely good quality which may not be the case elsewhere in which case gravimetric information needs to be collected alongside levelling. In height network calculations it is important to note that in such challenging areas all points should obtain their height values from an adjustment or from a point on the same side of a terrace, otherwise errors in heights may be as large as the gravimetric correction across the terrace.
CARTOGRAPHIC IMAGE OF SAMOGITIA IN THE OLD MAPS OF LITHUANIA, POLAND AND OTHER NEIGHBORING COUNTRIES (1700–1939)
Authors: Lukoševičius Viktoras
Published: June 2014

While continuing researches on ancient cartography (Lukoševičius 2014) the publication is aimed at viewing maps of Samogitia in the perspective of historical events, with a special emphasis on most important historical events as well as cartography development moments. The method used is analysis the most representitive examples of maps, by different authors, found in cartographical archives. The article presents the authors and designers over 60 maps where Samogitia is marked and discusses map characteristics. It also provides links that are helpful for the readers interested in a more detailed studies of specific maps. Such presentation should help revise and complete the historical image of Samogitia because the old maps were not specific to any one topic. They– the universal, they were reflected in both the natural and social phenomena and the evolution of patterns. It was also available and various historical comments. Often, the old maps are often associated with military needs. Summarizing research results the author conclude that presented ancient maps is important for the history of Lithuania cartography and are true historical witnesses helping to understand long and complicated formation process of Samogitia and the state of Lithuania; however the analysis alone is insufficient to fully reveal its historic concept.
Estructura de la Sierra de Lújar (Complejo Alpujárride, Cordillera Bética)
Authors: Sanz de Galdeano Carlos , López Garrido Angel Carlos
Published: June 2014

La Sierra de Lújar constituye uno de los mejores ejemplos de superposición de pliegues de la Zona Interna Bética. Su estructura se ha determinado a partir del primer mapa en el que se han distinguido los diferentes tramos de su serie triásica carbonatada. Los pliegues NNE-SSO son los más abundantes y se superponen a otros de dirección E-O. Los bordes S y E de esta sierra corresponden en parte a un gran sinclinal invertido vergente hacia su interior y que continúa en la Sierra de La Joya pero con distinta vergencia. En el interior de la sierra hay numerosos anticlinales y sinclinales de dirección NNE-SSO, algunos de flancos invertidos cuyas vergencias varían incluso en un mismo pliegue. La unidad de Lujar es cabalgada por la de Escalate (una duplicación de la de Lujar) y por otras superiores. El borde occidental de la Sierra de Lujar está afectado por una falla normal que hunde la unidad de Escalate. Interpretamos que los pliegues E-O se formaron durante el cabalgamiento de las unidades y los NNE-SSO cuando comenzó la traslación de la Zona Interna hacia el O.
An attribute detection based approach to automatic speech processing
Authors: Siniscalchi Sabato Marco , Lee Chin-Hui
Published: June 2014

State-of-the-art automatic speech and speaker recognition systems are often built with a pattern matching framework that has proven to achieve low recognition error rates for a variety of resource-rich tasks when the volume of speech and text examples to build statistical acoustic and language models is plentiful, and the speaker, acoustics and language conditions follow a rigid protocol. However, because of the “blackbox” top-down knowledge integration approach, such systems cannot easily leverage a rich set of knowledge sources already available in the literature on speech, acoustics and languages. In this paper, we present a bottom-up approach to knowledge integration, called automatic speech attribute transcription (ASAT), which is intended to be “knowledge-rich”, so that new and existing knowledge sources can be verified and integrated into current spoken language systems to improve recognition accuracy and system robustness. Since the ASAT framework offers a “divide-and-conquer” strategy and a “plug-andplay” game plan, it will facilitate a cooperative speech processing community that every researcher can contribute to, with a view to improving speech processing capabilities which are currently not easily accessible to researchers in the speech science community.
Toward a unified theory of voice production and perception
Authors: Kreiman Jody , Gerratt Bruce R. , Garellek Marc , Samlan Robin , Zhang Zhaoyan
Published: June 2014

At present, two important questions about voice remain unanswered: When voice quality changes, what physiological alteration caused this change, and if a change to the voice production system occurs, what change in perceived quality can be expected? We argue that these questions can only be answered by an integrated model of voice linking production and perception, and we describe steps towards the development of such a model. Preliminary evidence in support of this approach is also presented. We conclude that development of such a model should be a priority for scientists interested in voice, to explain what physical condition(s) might underlie a given voice quality, or what voice quality might result from a specific physical configuration.
La sociedad virreinal en Buenos Aires: un análisis desde la cultura material y la alimentación
Authors: Marschoff María
Published: June 2014

En este trabajo se discute la forma en que se estructuraba la oferta de objetos relacionados con las prácticas de alimentación en la ciudad de Buenos Aires durante el período virreinal (1776-1810). Se contrapone esta información al análisis de las maneras en que estos utensilios eran utilizados en los ámbitos domésticos. El abordaje a la cultura material de los contextos, tanto comerciales como domésticos, se realiza a partir de los ítems listados en inventarios post mortem de habitantes de esta ciudad. Como resultado se plantea que tanto las diferentes formas de organizar la alimentación a nivel doméstico como la oferta comercial de objetos responden parcialmente a la coyuntura particular de movilidad social y migraciones, las cuales fueron propiciadas por la creación del Virreinato del Río de la Plata.
Corrupción y regeneración: Víctor Andrés Belaunde y «La crisis presente»
Authors: Santiváñez Vivanco Martín
Published: June 2014

Víctor Andrés Belaunde, uno de los pensadores más relevantes del arielismo latinoamericano, sostuvo la necesidad de combinar el diseño institucional con una regeneración valorativa como remedio a la crisis política que atravesaba el Perú. Así, la combinación de diseño institucional y vitalismo axiológico configuró un enfoque sintético que introdujo en la discusión pública una visión de desarrollo integral en el que la lucha contra la corrupción y los problemas institucionales podían ser abordados, de manera complementaria, desde una perspectiva ética. Tal dimensión servía para fortalecer la construcción de un Estado inclusivo, uno de los objetivos políticos de la generación arielista.
Using Website Analysis as a Tool for Computer Assisted Language Learning in a Foreign Language Classroom
Authors: Roy Debopriyo
Published: June 2014

This research explored how website analysis and design pedagogy could help support analytical thinking and English language production in an EFL context. In this study, 28 EFL-based computer science students took part in a website analysis experiment. The study investigated if students could analyze English websites and comprehend and produce responses in English for eight open-ended questions, divided into two sets of design and inference-based queries. Additionally, students answered a questionnaire on their own awareness about the use of metacognitive reading strategies, during website analysis and questionnaire responses. Results have demonstrated reasonable ability for students to answer most design and inference set queries. Questions on design, organization, audience analysis, and importance of the website were answered with better efficiency, when compared to few others. However, accuracy scores in neither set showed any significant practice effect, and rather performance dropped over the weeks. Further, self-reports indicated use of metacognitive reading strategies and significant correlations with accuracy scores during website analysis.
“I Think” in NS and Chinese NNS Spoken English
Authors: Huang Lan-fen
Published: June 2014

In spoken English, “I think” is a frequently-used chunk. The frequent use of “I think” in the Chinese non-native speakers' (NNSs') speech has been interpreted as being somewhat overused in previous studies, such as Xu and Xu (2007) and Yang and Wei (2005). The same phenomenon is also found in the present study, which is based on a detailed analysis of three corpora: The Spoken English Corpus of Chinese Learners (SECCL), MICASE and ICE-GB. “I think” is over-represented in the Chinese NNSs' speech in SECCL. However, it is questionable as to whether the Chinese NNSs use “I think” too much, and inappropriately. The investigation into the frequency information and contexts provides an explanation of the generic constraints and national backgrounds underlying the over-representation of “I think” in the speech of Chinese NNSs as well as revealing differences between Chinese NNSs and NSs.
An Investigation of the Evaluation of the Viral Marketing Research
Authors: Raghubansie Antonius , El-Gohary Hatem , Samaradivakara Chandrani
Published: June 2014

This paper aims to locate the key schools of thought in viral marketing (VM) literature, recognise the various sub-sets within viral marketing overall area of research and to identify the different gaps in viral marketing research literature offering a summation of the existing work done so far. The paper tries to build on the existing body of literature in the field of viral marketing, its related electronic word of mouth (eWOM) context and to present a taxonomic classification for future research. The review uses the paradigm funnel to examine the development of VM, key research contributions and categorises the published literature according to their objectives, analytical approaches and their contributions to theory. The literature addresses many subjects of study (e.g. E-Marketing, E-Word of Mouth, Social Media, Peer-to-Peer Communications, Viral Marketing, Buzz Marketing, Stealth Marketing, Viral Advertising, Viral Videos and other aligned research areas). The findings illustrated that there are various gaps in the literature that require further investigation. Based on the findings, it is evident that the existing frameworks arising from the literature should be enhanced by the adoption of qualitative approaches that explore how general observations respond to contingent factors.
Mucosal Polyinosinic-Polycytidylic Acid Improves Protection Elicited by Replicating Influenza Vaccines via Enhanced Dendritic Cell Function and T Cell Immunity
Authors: Pérez-Girón José V. , Belicha-Villanueva Alan , Hassan Ebrahim , Gómez-Medina Sergio , Cruz Jazmina L. G. , Lüdtke Anja , Ruibal Paula , Albrecht Randy A. , García-Sastre Adolfo , Muñoz-Fontela César
Published: June 2014

Live-attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIVs) have the potential to generate CD8 T cell immunity that may limit the virulence of an antigenically shifted influenza strain in a population lacking protective Abs. However, current LAIVs exert limited T cell immunity restricted to the vaccine strains. One approach to improve LAIV-induced T cell responses is the use of specific adjuvants to enhance T cell priming by respiratory dendritic cells, but this hypothesis has not been addressed. In this study, we assessed the effect of the TLR3 ligand polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly IC) on CD8 T cell immunity and protection elicited by LAIVs. Mucosal treatment with poly IC shortly after vaccination enhanced respiratory dendritic cell function, CD8 T cell formation, and production of neutralizing Abs. This adjuvant effect of poly IC was dependent on amplification of TLR3 signaling by nonhematopoietic radioresistant cells and enhanced mouse protection to homosubtypic, as well as heterosubtypic, virus challenge. Our findings indicate that mucosal TLR3 ligation may be used to improve CD8 T cell responses to replicating vaccines, which has implications for protection in the absence of pre-existing Ab immunity.
IFN Regulatory Factor 10 Is a Negative Regulator of the IFN Responses in Fish
Authors: Li Shun , Lu Long-Feng , Feng Hong , Wu Nan , Chen Dan-Dan , Zhang Yi-Bing , Gui Jian-Fang , Nie Pin , Zhang Yong-An
Published: June 2014

IFN regulatory factor (IRF) 10 belongs to the IRF family and exists exclusively in birds and fish. Most IRFs have been identified as critical regulators in the IFN responses in both fish and mammals; however, the role of IRF10 is unclear. In this study, we identified IRF10 in zebrafish (Danio rerio) and found that it serves as a negative regulator to balance the innate antiviral immune responses. Zebrafish IRF10 (DrIRF10) was induced by intracellular polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid in ZF4 (zebrafish embryo fibroblast-like) cells. DrIRF10 inhibited the activation of zebrafish IFN1 (DrIFN1) and DrIFN3 promoters in epithelioma papulosum cyprinid cells in the presence or absence of polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid stimulation through direct interaction with the IFN promoters, and this inhibition was also shown to block IFN signaling. Overexpression of DrIRF10 was able to abolish the induction of DrIFN1 and DrIFN3 mediated by the retinoic acid–inducible gene I–like receptors. In addition, functional domain analysis of DrIRF10 showed that either the DNA binding domain or the IRF association domain is sufficient for its inhibitory activity for IFN signaling. Lastly, overexpression of DrIRF10 decreased the transcription level of several IFN-stimulated genes, resulting in the susceptibility of host cells to spring viremia of carp virus infection. Collectively, these data suggest that DrIRF10 inhibits the expression of DrIFN1 and DrIFN3 to avoid an excessive immune response, a unique regulation mechanism of the IFN responses in lower vertebrates.
Regulation of Osteoclast Homeostasis and Inflammatory Bone Loss by MFG-E8
Authors: Abe Toshiharu , Shin Jieun , Hosur Kavita , Udey Mark C. , Chavakis Triantafyllos , Hajishengallis George
Published: June 2014

The glycoprotein milk fat globule–epidermal growth factor factor 8 (MFG-E8) is expressed in several tissues and mediates diverse homeostatic functions. However, whether it plays a role in bone homeostasis has not been established. In this study, we show for the first time, to our knowledge, that osteoclasts express and are regulated by MFG-E8. Bone marrow–derived osteoclast precursors from MFG-E8–deficient (Mfge8−/−) mice underwent increased receptor activator of NF-κB ligand–induced osteoclastogenesis, leading to enhanced resorption pit formation compared with wild-type controls. Consistently, exogenously added MFG-E8 inhibited receptor activator of NF-κB ligand–induced osteoclastogenesis from mouse or human osteoclast precursors. Upon induction of experimental periodontitis, an oral inflammatory disease characterized by loss of bone support of the dentition, Mfge8−/− mice exhibited higher numbers of osteoclasts and more bone loss than did wild-type controls. Accordingly, local microinjection of anti–MFG-E8 mAb exacerbated periodontal bone loss in wild-type mice. Conversely, microinjection of MFG-E8 inhibited bone loss in experimental mouse periodontitis. In comparison with wild-type controls, Mfge8−/− mice also experienced >60% more naturally occurring chronic periodontal bone loss. In conclusion, MFG-E8 is a novel homeostatic regulator of osteoclasts that could be exploited therapeutically to treat periodontitis and perhaps other immunological disorders associated with inflammatory bone loss.
The determinants of visitor length of stay at the Kruger National Park
Authors: Kruger Martinette , Saayman Melville
Published: June 2014

This study analysed the determinants of tourists’ length of stay at one of South Africa’s oldest and largest national parks, the Kruger National Park. It took the different regions of this Park into account and analysed visitors to the northern and southern regions separately to distinguish the different determinants of length of stay. The results showed clear differences between the determinants of length of stay for the two regions, indicating that for a destination with the size and scope of the Kruger Park, a regional approach should be followed to improve management and encourage visitors to stay longer.Conservation implications: The northern and southern regions of the Kruger National Park differ significantly in terms of ecosystems, rainfall, climate and wildlife. From a tourism perspective, these regions should be managed separately taking the distinct differences of the two regions into consideration. Different variables influence visitors’ length of stay in these two regions. Conservation practitioners can use the results of this study to manage visitors to these areas.
Assessment of the main factors impacting community members’ attitudes towards tourism and protected areas in six southern African countries
Authors: Snyman Susan
Published: June 2014

In southern Africa, many early conservation efforts from the late 1800s and early 1900s either displaced local communities or restricted their access to natural resources. This naturally affected community attitudes towards protected areas and efforts were later made to rectify growing tensions. In the last few decades of the 20th century, these efforts led to conservation and ecotourism models that increasingly included communities in the decision-making and benefit-sharing process in order to garner their support. Although the results of these policies were mixed, it is clear that the future success of conservation and, consequently, ecotourism in many areas will depend on the attitudes and behaviour of communities living in or adjacent to protected areas. Managing and understanding community expectations and attitudes under varying socio-economic circumstances will lead to more efficient, equitable and sustainable community-based conservation and ecotourism models. This study was based on 1400 community interview schedules conducted in Botswana, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe, allowing for an accurate comparison of attitudes across countries, protected areas and communities. The results highlighted important demographic and socio-economic factors to consider in terms of understanding the attitudes of those living in and around protected areas. Suggestions were put forward for managing community relationships and garnering long-term support for protected areas and ecotourism. Conservation implications: It was observed that, in general, community members living in or adjacent to conservation areas in southern Africa have an understanding and appreciation of the importance of conservation. Formal education was found to positively impact attitudes and human–wildlife conflict negatively impacted attitudes, highlighting important policy focus areas.
Tourism and conservation in Madagascar: The importance of Andasibe National Park
Authors: Newsome David , Hassell Shannon
Published: June 2014

Madagascar is renowned for high levels of biodiversity and endemism. As a result of its unique flora and fauna, as well as the high levels of human threat to the environment, such as illegal clearing, hunting and political instability, it is a critical global conservation priority. Andasibe–Mantadia National Park in eastern Madagascar is one of the most popular protected areas visited by tourists. Observations carried out in 2011 showed that even though there were some negative impacts associated with natural-area tourism, the benefits to both the local communities and associated biological conservation outweighed the negatives. Natural-area tourism at Andasibe is well organised, with many local guide associations having partnerships with international organisations and 50% of park fees going directly to local communities. Forest loss is a widespread problem in Madagascar, but at Andasibe the forest is valued for its ecological function and as a generator of profits from natural-area tourism. Exploitation of the park was not observed. Andasibe is an example of how conservation and natural-area tourism can work together in Madagascar for the benefit of local communities and the environment. However, with the current unstable political climate and lack of adequate wider tourism and conservation planning frameworks, awakening to its potential as a leading conservation tourism destination will not be a simple task. Conservation implications: This research demonstrated that ecotourism can be an effective means of achieving conservation objectives, whilst, at the same time, improving the livelihoods of local people. We caution, however, that governments can do a lot more to encourage and support the nexus between tourism and conservation.