bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manuscripts and Machines: The Automatic Replacement of Spelling Variants in a Portuguese Historical Corpus
Authors: Marquilhas Rita , Hendrickx Iris
Published: April 2014

The CARDS-FLY project aims to collect and transcribe a diverse sample of historical personal letters from the 16th to 20th century in a digital format to create a linguistic resource for the historical study of the Portuguese language and society. The letters were written by people from all social layers of society and their historical, social and pragmatic contexts are documented in the digital format. Here we study one particular aspect of this collection, namely the spelling variation. Furthermore, on the basis of this analysis, we improved a statistical spelling normalisation tool that we aim to use to automatically normalise the spelling in the full collection of digitised letters.
Balancing Power Output and Structural Fatigue of Wave Energy Converters by Means of Control Strategies
Authors: Ferri Francesco , Ambühl Simon , Fischer Boris , Kofoed Jens
Published: April 2014

In order to reduce the cost of electricity produced by wave energy converters (WECs), the benefit of selling electricity as well as the investment costs of the structure has to be considered. This paper presents a methodology for assessing the control strategy for a WEC with respect to both energy output and structural fatigue loads. Different active and passive control strategies are implemented (proportional (P) controller, proportional-integral (PI) controller, proportional-integral-derivative with memory compensation (PID) controller, model predictive control (MPC) and maximum energy controller (MEC)), and load time-series resulting from numerical simulations are used to design structural parts based on fatigue analysis using rain-flow counting, Stress-Number (SN) curves and Miner’s rule. The objective of the methodology is to obtain a cost-effective WEC with a more comprehensive analysis of a WEC based on a combination of well known control strategies and standardised fatigue methods. The presented method is then applied to a particular case study, the Wavestar WEC, for a specific location in the North Sea. Results, which are based on numerical simulations, show the importance of balancing the gained power against structural fatigue. Based on a simple cost model, the PI controller is shown as a viable solution.
The Epigenome View: An Effort towards Non-Invasive Prenatal Diagnosis
Authors: Papageorgiou Elisavet , Koumbaris George , Kypri Elena , Hadjidaniel Michael , Patsalis Philippos
Published: April 2014

Epigenetic modifications have proven to play a significant role in cancer development, as well as fetal development. Taking advantage of the knowledge acquired during the last decade, great interest has been shown worldwide in deciphering the fetal epigenome towards the development of methylation-based non-invasive prenatal tests (NIPT). In this review, we highlight the different approaches implemented, such as sodium bisulfite conversion, restriction enzyme digestion and methylated DNA immunoprecipitation, for the identification of differentially methylated regions (DMRs) between free fetal DNA found in maternal blood and DNA from maternal blood cells. Furthermore, we evaluate the use of selected DMRs identified towards the development of NIPT for fetal chromosomal aneuploidies. In addition, we perform a comparison analysis, evaluate the performance of each assay and provide a comprehensive discussion on the potential use of different methylation-based technologies in retrieving the fetal methylome, with the aim of further expanding the development of NIPT assays.
Will Naomi’s Nation be Ruth’s Nation?: Ethnic Translation as a Metaphor for Ruth’s Assimilation within Judah
Authors: Southwood Katherine
Published: April 2014

This article utilizes research concerning assimilation as a heuristic analytical tool through which to understand some of the factors that may have influenced Ruth’s and Naomi’s assimilation (or re-assimilation in Naomi’s case, having returned to Judah) within the Biblical book of Ruth. Initially, analysis of research concerning assimilation, research which originally emerged within the U.S. but has since developed on a larger and more sophisticated scale, is undertaken before the article turns to evaluate the narrative within the book of Ruth in light of the literature from social and cultural anthropology. Such literature considers the impact that family, friendship, and religious networks have on immigration and assimilation. It is suggested that the concept of “ethnic translation” rather than assimilation is more appropriate to the experience represented within the narrative. Furthermore, it is argued that Ruth’s assimilation, or ethnic translation and Naomi’s return migration and re-assimilation (or ethnic re-translation) are assisted greatly by family networks and by religious participation. While primarily a study of Hebrew Bible narrative, the interdisciplinary nature of the article enables it to serve as a springboard for larger reflections, especially in light of the new concept of ethnic translation.
Neuroprotective Effect of Melatonin against Kainic Acid-Induced Oxidative Injury in Hippocampal Slice Culture of Rats
Authors: Kim Hyung , Lee Kyung , Lee Bae
Published: April 2014

Endogenous melatonin is a known free radical scavenger that removes reactive oxygen species (ROS), thus, alleviating oxidative stress. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate its effect against kainic acid (KA)-induced oxidative stress in organotypic hippocampal slice cultures (OHSCs). To observe neuroprotective effects of melatonin, different concentrations (0.01, 0.1 and 1 mM) of melatonin were administrated after KA treatment for 18 h in OHSCs of rat pups. Dose-response studies showed that neuronal cell death was significantly reduced after 0.1 and 1 mΜ melatonin treatments based on propidium iodide (PI) uptake and cresyl violet staining. The dichlorofluorescein (DCF) fluorescence which indicates ROS formation decreased more in the melatonin-treated group than in the KA group. The expression of 5-lipoxigenase (5-LO) and caspase-3 were reduced in the melatonin-treated groups compared to the KA group. These results suggest that melatonin may be an effective agent against KA-induced oxidative stress in the OHSC model.
Triterpenoid Saponin Biosynthetic Pathway Profiling and Candidate Gene Mining of the Ilex asprella Root Using RNA-Seq
Authors: Zheng Xiasheng , Xu Hui , Ma Xinye , Zhan Ruoting , Chen Weiwen
Published: April 2014

Ilex asprella, which contains abundant α-amyrin type triterpenoid saponins, is an anti-influenza herbal drug widely used in south China. In this work, we first analysed the transcriptome of the I. asprella root using RNA-Seq, which provided a dataset for functional gene mining. mRNA was isolated from the total RNA of the I. asprella root and reverse-transcribed into cDNA. Then, the cDNA library was sequenced using an Illumina HiSeq™ 2000, which generated 55,028,452 clean reads. De novo assembly of these reads generated 51,865 unigenes, in which 39,269 unigenes were annotated (75.71% yield). According to the structures of the triterpenoid saponins of I. asprella, a putative biosynthetic pathway downstream of 2,3-oxidosqualene was proposed and candidate unigenes in the transcriptome data that were potentially involved in the pathway were screened using homology-based BLAST and phylogenetic analysis. Further amplification and functional analysis of these putative unigenes will provide insight into the biosynthesis of Ilex triterpenoid saponins.
Cardiac Fas-Dependent and Mitochondria-Dependent Apoptosis after Chronic Cocaine Abuse
Authors: Liou Cher-Ming , Tsai Shiow-Chwen , Kuo Chia-Hua , Ting Hua , Lee Shin-Da
Published: April 2014

To evaluate whether chronic cocaine abuse will increase cardiac Fas-dependent and mitochondria-dependent apoptotic pathways, thirty-two male Wistar rats at 3–4 months of age were randomly divided into a vehicle-treated group (phosphate-buffered saline, PBS, 0.5 mL, SQ per day) and a cocaine-treated group (Cocaine, 10 mg/kg, SQ per day). After 3 months of treatment, the excised left ventricles were measured by H&E staining, Western blotting, DAPI staining and TUNEL assays. More cardiac TUNEL-positive apoptotic cells were observed in the Cocaine group than the PBS group. Protein levels of TNF-alpha, Fas ligand, Fas death receptor, FADD, activated caspase-8, and activated caspase-3 (Fas-dependent apoptosis) extracted from excised hearts in the Cocaine group were significantly increased, compared to the PBS group. Protein levels of cardiac Bax, cytosolic cytochrome c, t-Bid-to-Bid, Bak-to-Bcl-xL, Bax-to-Bcl-2 ratio, activated caspase-9, and activated caspase-3 (mitochondria-dependent apoptosis) were significantly increased in the Cocaine group, compared to the PBS group. Chronic cocaine exposure appeared to activate the cardiac Fas-dependent and mitochondria-dependent apoptosis, which may indicate a possible mechanism for the development of cardiac abnormalities in humans with chronic cocaine abuse.
Vasostatin Inhibits VEGF-Induced Endothelial Cell Proliferation, Tube Formation and Induces Cell Apoptosis under Oxygen Deprivation
Authors: Shu Qun , Li Wenjiao , Li Haichuan , Sun Gang
Published: April 2014

Anti-angiogenesis treatment has been a promising new form of cancer therapy. Endothelial cells are critical for vascular homeostasis and play important roles in angiogenesis, vascular and tissue remodeling. Vasostatin, the 180 amino acid N-terminal fragment of the calreticulin protein, is reported to be a potent endogenous inhibitor of angiogenesis, suppressing tumor growth. However, the mechanism of these effects has not been sufficiently investigated. This study was performed to investigate the possible mechanism of vasostatin effects on primary cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). We found that vasostatin could inhibit the cell viability of HUVEC and induce cell apoptosis through mitochondrial pathways via activation of caspase-3 under oxygen deprivation conditions. Meanwhile, vasostatin also inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor-induced proliferation and tube formation of HUVEC. The possible mechanism of vasostatin-inhibited proliferation of HUVEC could be through down-regulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase. These findings suggest that vasostatin could regulate endothelial cell function and might be used in anti-angiogenesis treatment.
Effects of Invasive Winter Moth Defoliation on Tree Radial Growth in Eastern Massachusetts, USA
Authors: Simmons Michael , Lee Thomas , Ducey Mark , Elkinton Joseph , Boettner George , Dodds Kevin
Published: April 2014

Winter moth, Operophtera brumata L. (Lepidoptera: Geometridae), has been defoliating hardwood trees in eastern Massachusetts since the 1990s. Native to Europe, winter moth has also been detected in Rhode Island, Connecticut, eastern Long Island (NY), New Hampshire, and Maine. Individual tree impacts of winter moth defoliation in New England are currently unknown. Using dendroecological techniques, this study related annual radial growth of individual host (Quercus spp. and Acer spp.) trees to detailed defoliation estimates. Winter moth defoliation was associated with up to a 47% reduction in annual radial growth of Quercus trees. Latewood production of Quercus was reduced by up to 67% in the same year as defoliation, while earlywood production was reduced by up to 24% in the year following defoliation. Winter moth defoliation was not a strong predictor of radial growth in Acer species. This study is the first to document impacts of novel invasions of winter moth into New England.
Spin Relaxation in GaAs: Importance of Electron-Electron Interactions
Authors: Marchetti Gionni , Hodgson Matthew , McHugh James , Chantrell Roy , D'Amico Irene
Published: April 2014

We study spin relaxation in n-type bulk GaAs, due to the Dyakonov–Perel mechanism, using ensemble Monte Carlo methods. Our results confirm that spin relaxation time increases with the electronic density in the regime of moderate electronic concentrations and high temperature. We show that the electron-electron scattering in the non-degenerate regime significantly slows down spin relaxation. This result supports predictions by Glazov and Ivchenko. Most importantly, our findings highlight the importance of many-body interactions for spin dynamics: we show that only by properly taking into account electron-electron interactions within the simulations, results for the spin relaxation time—with respect to both electron density and temperature—will reach good quantitative agreement with corresponding experimental data. Our calculations contain no fitting parameters.
A Novel DNA Nanosensor Based on CdSe/ZnS Quantum Dots and Synthesized Fe3O4 Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Hushiarian Roozbeh , Yusof Nor , Abdullah Abdul , Ahmad Shahrul , Dutse Sabo
Published: April 2014

Although nanoparticle-enhanced biosensors have been extensively researched, few studies have systematically characterized the roles of nanoparticles in enhancing biosensor functionality. This paper describes a successful new method in which DNA binds directly to iron oxide nanoparticles for use in an optical biosensor. A wide variety of nanoparticles with different properties have found broad application in biosensors because their small physical size presents unique chemical, physical, and electronic properties that are different from those of bulk materials. Of all nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles are proving to be a versatile tool, an excellent case in point being in DNA bioassays, where magnetic nanoparticles are often used for optimization of the hybridization and separation of target DNA. A critical step in the successful construction of a DNA biosensor is the efficient attachment of biomolecules to the surface of magnetic nanoparticles. To date, most methods of synthesizing these nanoparticles have led to the formation of hydrophobic particles that require additional surface modifications. As a result, the surface to volume ratio decreases and nonspecific bindings may occur so that the sensitivity and efficiency of the device deteriorates. A new method of large-scale synthesis of iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles which results in the magnetite particles being in aqueous phase, was employed in this study. Small modifications were applied to design an optical DNA nanosensor based on sandwich hybridization. Characterization of the synthesized particles was carried out using a variety of techniques and CdSe/ZnS core-shell quantum dots were used as the reporter markers in a spectrofluorophotometer. We showed conclusively that DNA binds to the surface of ironoxide nanoparticles without further surface modifications and that these magnetic nanoparticles can be efficiently utilized as biomolecule carriers in biosensing devices.
On the Response of European Vegetation Phenology to Hydroclimatic Anomalies
Authors: Ceccherini Guido , Gobron Nadine , Migliavacca Mirco
Published: April 2014

Climate change is expected to alter vegetation and carbon cycle processes, with implications for ecosystems. Notably, understanding the sensitivity of vegetation to the anomalies of precipitation and temperature over different land cover classes and the corresponding temporal response is essential for improved climate prediction. In this paper, we analyze vegetation response to hydroclimatic forcings using the Fraction of Absorbed Photosynthetically Active Radiation (FAPAR) derived from SeaWiFS (Sea-viewing Wide Field-of-view Sensor) (1998–2002) and (Medium Resolution Imaging Spectrometer) (2003–2011) satellite sensors at ∼1-km resolution. Based on land cover and pixel-wise analysis, we quantify the extent of the dependence of the FAPAR and, ultimately, the phenology on the anomalies of precipitation and temperature over Europe. Statistical tests are performed to establish where this correlation may be regarded as statistically significant. Furthermore, we assess a statistical link between the climate variables and a set of phenological metrics defined from FAPAR measurement. Variation in the phenological response to the unusual values of precipitation and temperature can be interpreted as the result of the balanced opposite effects of water and temperature on vegetation processes. Results suggest very different responses for different land cover classes and seasons. Correlation analysis also indicates that European phenology may be quite sensitive to perturbations in precipitation and temperature regimes, such as those induced by climate change.
Window Size Impact in Human Activity Recognition
Authors: Banos Oresti , Galvez Juan-Manuel , Damas Miguel , Pomares Hector , Rojas Ignacio
Published: April 2014

Signal segmentation is a crucial stage in the activity recognition process; however, this has been rarely and vaguely characterized so far. Windowing approaches are normally used for segmentation, but no clear consensus exists on which window size should be preferably employed. In fact, most designs normally rely on figures used in previous works, but with no strict studies that support them. Intuitively, decreasing the window size allows for a faster activity detection, as well as reduced resources and energy needs. On the contrary, large data windows are normally considered for the recognition of complex activities. In this work, we present an extensive study to fairly characterize the windowing procedure, to determine its impact within the activity recognition process and to help clarify some of the habitual assumptions made during the recognition system design. To that end, some of the most widely used activity recognition procedures are evaluated for a wide range of window sizes and activities. From the evaluation, the interval 1–2 s proves to provide the best trade-off between recognition speed and accuracy. The study, specifically intended for on-body activity recognition systems, further provides designers with a set of guidelines devised to facilitate the system definition and configuration according to the particular application requirements and target activities.
Uncertain Data Clustering-Based Distance Estimation in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Luo Qinghua , Peng Yu , Peng Xiyuan , Saddik Abdulmotaleb
Published: April 2014

For communication distance estimations in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) value is usually assumed to have a linear relationship with the logarithm of the communication distance. However, this is not always true in reality because there are always uncertainties in RSSI readings due to obstacles, wireless interferences, etc. In this paper, we specifically propose a novel RSSI-based communication distance estimation method based on the idea of interval data clustering. We first use interval data, combined with statistical information of RSSI values, to interpret the distribution characteristics of RSSI. We then use interval data hard clustering and soft clustering to overcome different levels of RSSI uncertainties, respectively. We have used real RSSI measurements to evaluate our communication distance estimation method in three representative wireless environments. Extensive experimental results show that our communication distance estimation method can effectively achieve promising estimation accuracy with high efficiency when compared to other state-of-art approaches.
Luminescent Measurement Systems for the Investigation of a Scramjet Inlet-Isolator
Authors: Idris Azam , Saad Mohd , Zare-Behtash Hossein , Kontis Konstantinos
Published: April 2014

Scramjets have become a main focus of study for many researchers, due to their application as propulsive devices in hypersonic flight. This entails a detailed understanding of the fluid mechanics involved to be able to design and operate these engines with maximum efficiency even at their off-design conditions. It is the objective of the present cold-flow investigation to study and analyse experimentally the mechanics of the fluid structures encountered within a generic scramjet inlet at M = 5. Traditionally, researchers have to rely on stream-thrust analysis, which requires the complex setup of a mass flow meter, a force balance and a heat transducer in order to measure inlet-isolator performance. Alternatively, the pitot rake could be positioned at inlet-isolator exit plane, but this method is intrusive to the flow, and the number of pitot tubes is limited by the model size constraint. Thus, this urgent need for a better flow diagnostics method is addressed in this paper. Pressure-sensitive paint (PSP) has been applied to investigate the flow characteristics on the compression ramp, isolator surface and isolator sidewall. Numerous shock-shock interactions, corner and shoulder separation regions, as well as shock trains were captured by the luminescent system. The performance of the scramjet inlet-isolator has been shown to improve when operated in a modest angle of attack.
Transit Traffic Analysis Zone Delineating Method Based on Thiessen Polygon
Authors: Wang Shuwei , Sun Lishan , Rong Jian , Yang Zifan
Published: April 2014

A green transportation system composed of transit, busses and bicycles could be a significant in alleviating traffic congestion. However, the inaccuracy of current transit ridership forecasting methods is imposing a negative impact on the development of urban transit systems. Traffic Analysis Zone (TAZ) delineating is a fundamental and essential step in ridership forecasting, existing delineating method in four-step models have some problems in reflecting the travel characteristics of urban transit. This paper aims to come up with a Transit Traffic Analysis Zone delineation method as supplement of traditional TAZs in transit service analysis. The deficiencies of current TAZ delineating methods were analyzed, and the requirements of Transit Traffic Analysis Zone (TTAZ) were summarized. Considering these requirements, Thiessen Polygon was introduced into TTAZ delineating. In order to validate its feasibility, Beijing was then taken as an example to delineate TTAZs, followed by a spatial analysis of office buildings within a TTAZ and transit station departure passengers. Analysis result shows that the TTAZs based on Thiessen polygon could reflect the transit travel characteristic and is of in-depth research value.
Generation of West Nile Virus Infectious Clones Containing Amino Acid Insertions Between Capsid and Capsid Anchor
Authors: Vandergaast Rianna , Hoover Lisa , Zheng Kang , Fredericksen Brenda
Published: April 2014

West Nile virus (WNV) is a positive-sense RNA arbovirus responsible for recent outbreaks of severe neurological disease within the US and Europe. Large-scale analyses of antiviral compounds that inhibit virus replication have been limited due to the lack of an adequate WN reporter virus. Previous attempts to insert a reporter into the 3’ untranslated region of WNV generated unstable viruses, suggesting that this region does not accommodate additional nucleotides. Here, we engineered two WNV infectious clones containing insertions at the Capsid (C)/Capsid Anchor (CA) junction of the viral polyprotein. Recombinant viruses containing a TAT(1-67) or Gaussia Luciferase (GLuc) gene at this location were successfully recovered. However, rapid loss of most, if not all, of the reporter sequence occurred for both viruses, indicating that the reporter viruses were not stable. While the GLuc viruses predominantly reverted back to wild-type WNV length, the TAT viruses retained up to 75 additional nucleotides of the reporter sequence. These additional nucleotides were stable over at least five passages and did not significantly alter WNV fitness. Thus, the C/CA junction of WNV can tolerate additional nucleotides, though insertions are subject to certain constraints.
An Estimate of Energy Available via Microbial Sulfate Reduction at a Quaternary Aquifer in Northern Japan considered for Low Temperature Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Ioka Seiichiro , Muraoka Hirofumi
Published: April 2014

The energy available via microbial sulfate reduction was estimated for a Quaternary aquifer in northern Japan that is a candidate site for low temperature aquifer thermal energy storage. In evaluating whether microbial sulfate reduction proceeded or ceased, it was assumed that electron donor/acceptor concentrations were unchanged by temperature increase. The estimated energy availability via microbial sulfate reduction at 9 °C with no thermal disturbance was 37, 51, and 53 kJ·(mol SO42−)−1. The low estimate of 37 kJ·(mol SO42−)−1 was attributed to low concentration of SO42−. Excluding the sampling site with low concentration of electron acceptors, energy availability was estimated 52 and 54 kJ·(mol SO42−)−1 at 20 °C; 54 and 57 kJ·(mol SO42−)−1 at 40 °C; and 57 and 59 kJ·(mol SO42−)−1 at 60 °C. These results indicate that possible energy availability via microbial sulfate reduction at approximately 40–60 °C exceeded the range of available energy (compiled from previous studies) at which sulfate reduction would cease. Thus, microbial sulfate reduction at this site may proceed at approximately 40–60 °C.
Documents sur l'œuvre de Jules Hardouin-Mansart à Chantilly
Authors: Jestaz Bertrand
Published: April 2014

Documents sur l'œuvre de Jules Hardouin-Mansart à Chantilly.

Mansart a été consulté à Chantilly pour le première fois en 1674, à l'occasion des travaux d'aménagement de l'entrée du domaine dirigés par Le Nostre, et on peut lui attribuer le dessin de la voûte construite alors sous la terrasse. Il semble qu'il ait été dès lors régulièrement consulté, moins peut-être par le prince de Condé que par son fils, le duc d'Enghien, et il a dû jouer un rôle décisif dans la conception de la façade de la terrasse sur le parterre (1681 ?). En tout cas, il devint en 1683 l'architecte du prince. Il réalisa donc sur ses dessins l'Orangerie (1683) et la transformation du Petit château (1685-1686) par le doublement de l'aile postérieure et la création de la galerie. Cependant il concevait aussi à la demande du duc d'Enghien des projets ingénieux pour une modernisation radicale du Château vieux. Mais après la mort du Grand Condé (1686) et la construction de l'église paroissiale ordonnée par son codicille, le nouveau prince se contenta d'une régularisation restreinte du Château vieux, limitée à la réalisation de deux ailes symétriques sur le parterre à partir de l'ancienne galerie de Chambiges adaptée et surélevée (1687- 1690). Les projets de Mansart pour la rénovation des autres ailes, malgré leur séduction, n'eurent pas d'exécution mais influencèrent probablement ceux d'Aubert, et ils témoignent en tout cas de la hardiesse de son imagination et de sa science de la distribution.
Résultats d'un essai de stimulation de croissance chez le radis par application de faibles doses de rayons X aux graines avant le semis
Authors: Bilquez André F.
Published: April 2014

1. Des études ont été entreprises en vue de vérifier dans quelle mesure l'application de faibles doses de rayons X à des graines de radis avant leur semis pouvait provoquer une stimulation ultérieure de la croissance des plantes issues de ces graines, et aboutir à l'obtention d'une augmentation de rendement. 2. Les résultats obtenus permettent de conclure qu'il y a bien une stimulation de la croissance des plantes, à la suite de l'application aux graines de certaines doses de radiations.

3. La stimulation de croissance se manifeste seulement sur le système radiculaire. Elle n'intéresse pas le système foliaire.

4. La stimulation semble pouvoir être induite seulement par des doses bien précises, situées dans une marge assez étroite.

5. La sensibilité diffère d'une variété à l'autre au sein de la même espèce.

6. Les différences de poids entre matériel provenant de graines irradiées et matériel provenant de graines témoins non traitées ne deviennent mathématiquement significatives qu'à partir d'un stade déterminé de croissance ou de développement des plantes. Tout essai récolté en dehors de cette phase optimum ne permet pas de conclure mathématiquement, bien qu'il y ait indéniablement dans tous les cas une différence en faveur du matériel irradié, ainsi que le prouve la succession des résultats dans le temps.
Floristique des pâturages salés (Halophytes et subhalophytes) et végétation des rizières du Sine-Saloum (Sénégal) (suite et fin)
Authors: Adam J.G.
Published: April 2014

Les pâturages salés (halophytes et subhalophytes) des deltas alluvionnaires du Sine et du Saloum, au Sénégal, croissent dans des sols sablo-argilo-limoneux situés de quelques centimètres à 0,50 m environ au-dessus des plus fortes inondations (pluies et marées). Ils forment le passage entre la végétation de la mangrove et arrière-mangrove et celle de la terre ferme sablonneuse qui constitue le sol normal de cette partie du Sénégal (Sine-Saloum) où se cultive l'arachide.

La flore est à tendance halophytique pour les parties les plus basses et elle emprunte à la flore locale intérieure une grande partie de sa composition dès que la présence du sel s'atténue.

Quelques espèces caractérisent par leur association ou leur présence en petits peuplements monophytes ces espaces qui ne sont jamais cultivés ou seulement très sporadiquement pour le riz ou l'arachide suivant leur position plus ou moins basse. Ils servent de vaine pâture au bétail. Ce sont : Porphyrostemma chevalieri, Loudetia bidentata, Brachiaria stigmatisata, Desmodium hirtum.

Ces pâturages sont limités floristiquement :

1° vers la mangrove par les groupements à Sporobolus robustus ou Schizachyrium compressum ;

2° vers les terres non inondables et non salées, par le groupement à Andropogon gayanus bisquamulatus ;

3° vers les terres humides ou passagèrement inondables en saison des pluies par les groupements à Hygrophila longifolia et senegalensis, qui précèdent le groupement des rizières humides en saison sèche à Ammania et Bacopa ; ou sèches à Cressa cretice.

La valeur fourragère de ces pâturages est très faible malgré la variété des espèces rencontrées. La plupart sont en effet étrangères et accidentelles, éparses et peu abondantes. Les graminées lignifiées dès la floraison, les Cypéracées siliceuses dominent et, vu leur situation topographique, l'aridité du climat et la présence du sel, il ne semble pas pouvoir y avoir une amélioration possible rentable de leur composition.

Seul, le programme en cours pour l'aménagement des rizières par retenues des eaux de pluies, pourrait peut-être prévoir un assolement riz-pâturage semi-artificiel, dans les zones où la hauteur et la durée de l'immersion seront favorables à cette réalisation. Les superficies de vaines pâtures actuelles qui seront englobées dans ces travaux pourront ainsi être beaucoup mieux utilisées.

Quelques plantes doivent avoir une valeur fourragère certaine et sont très recherchées par les animaux : Brachiaria stigmatisata, Echinochloa s.sp., Panicum humile, Schizaphyrium brevifolium, etc. Leur biologie, pour cette région, devrait être étudiée pour chercher à connaître les conditions optima de leur développement et s'efforcer de les réaliser pour les multiplier avec peu de risques d'insuccès.
Community Expectations from Rural Tourism Development at Lekhubu Island, Botswana
Authors: Lenao Monkgogi , Mbaiwa Joseph E. , Saarinen Jarkko
Published: April 2014

This article uses the community-based tourism (CBT) and the rural development approach to analyze community expectations from a CBT project at Lekhubu Island by the Mmatshumu Village, Botswana. This is a qualitative study that utilizes secondary data sources, focus group discussions,
in-depth and key informant interviews, and informal interviews as well as observations. Results suggest a considerable degree of positivity among members of the community in terms of deriving economic benefits such as employment and infrastructural development. While this is desirable and
expected for a CBT project, there is need to inform the communities about trade-offs that they may have to contend with when the project and related tourist activities evolve and expand.
An Analysis of Critical Success Factors in Managing the Tourist Experience at Kruger National Park
Authors: Engelbrecht W. H. , Kruger M. , Saayman M.
Published: April 2014

Kruger National Park (KNP) attracts over 1 million tourists per annum and is one of the top five international destinations in South Africa. However, there is a lot of competition in South Africa and, together with the 22 national parks managed by SANParks, there are also local and
provincial parks and more than 9,000 game farms with neighboring countries such as Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana competing for ecotourists. This implies the need for higher quality products and services that must be delivered to the tourist to fulfill the expectations of tourists. This can
be achieved by determining the critical success factors (CSFs) in managing the tourist experience at KNP, since knowledge of these factors can lead to a satisfied tourist experience that will keep visitors loyal to the park and thus ensure the competitiveness and sustainability of the KNP.
The purpose of this research is therefore to determine the CSFs of managing the tourist experience at KNP. To achieve this goal, a questionnaire survey was conducted at KNP from December 27, 2010 to January 4, 2011. Questionnaires were distributed at the chalets and camping areas in the following
rest camps: Skukuza (152), Berg & Dal (98), Lower Sabie (85), and Satara (101). A total of 436 questionnaires were obtained from the rest camps. The results showed that nine CSFs can be identified, which KNP management can use to improve on quality service delivery, giving the tourists
a memorable experience at KNP. Three of the nine CSFs that have not yet been identified in previous research are wildlife experience, interpretation, and luxuries.
Global Imaging and Branding: Source Market Newspaper Reporting of the 2010 Fifa World Cup
Authors: Ferreira Sanette L. A. , Donaldson Ronnie
Published: April 2014

Hallmark events can act as a means to enhance a destination's image and ideology. In this case study, newspaper articles were analyzed to show the main messages and discourses on how the newspaper media of the country's main visitor source markets (UK, North America, Germany, and Netherlands)
portrayed South Africa during the event. In this context articles are seen as independent or autonomous sources of image agents. The main methods of analysis were content and discourse analyses. These analyses have revealed that the positive and neutral content messages dominate the constructed
images/pictures. On average, the most negative core market newspaper reporting originated from the UK and US, although there are major discrepancies in some of the negatively reported themes. The mega-event of 2010 has engendered a new image of South Africa globally but the long-term impact
of such events on the image of this destination is doubtful.
One-step synthesis of high quality kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 nanocrystals – a hydrothermal approach
Authors: Tiong Vincent Tiing , Bell John , Wang Hongxia
Published: April 2014

The present work demonstrates a systematic approach for the synthesis of pure kesterite-phase Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) nanocrystals with a uniform size distribution by a one-step, thioglycolic acid (TGA)-assisted hydrothermal route. The formation mechanism and the role of TGA in the formation of CZTS compound were thoroughly studied. It has been found that TGA interacted with Cu2+ to form Cu+ at the initial reaction stage and controlled the crystal-growth of CZTS nanocrystals during the hydrothermal reaction. The consequence of the reduction of Cu2+ to Cu+ led to the formation Cu2−xS nuclei, which acted as the crystal framework for the formation of CZTS compound. CZTS was formed by the diffusion of Zn2+ and Sn4+ cations to the lattice of Cu2−xS during the hydrothermal reaction. The as-synthesized CZTS nanocrystals exhibited strong light absorption over the range of wavelength beyond 1000 nm. The band gap of the material was determined to be 1.51 eV, which is optimal for application in photoelectric energy conversion device.
Towards allosteric receptors – synthesis of β-cyclodextrin-functionalised 2,2’-bipyridines and their metal complexes
Authors: Kremer Christopher , Schnakenburg Gregor , Lützen Arne
Published: April 2014

Herein, we present three new 2,2’-bipyridines that carry two β-cyclodextrin moieties in different substitution patterns. When coordinated by zinc(II) or copper(I) ions (or their complexes), these compounds undergo conformational changes and switch between “open” and “closed” forms and thereby bringing together or separating the cyclodextrin moieties from each other.
Future Research on Dimensions of E-Service Quality in Interactive Health Portals
Authors: Foroutani Saman , Iahad Noorminshah A. , Rahman Azizah Abdul
Published: April 2014

Today, the interaction between patients and Interactive Health Portals (IHPs) is one of the hot topics of e-health domains. Online Health Organisations (OHOs) try to improve the quality of their online services to increase patients' demand. However, Malaysian OHOs are far from achieving from this trend. Lack of enthusiasm, trust and loyalty are the major obstacles for successfully deploying IHPs in developing countries. Therefore, IHPs need to focus more on user-centric web portals in which patient demands are considered. IHPs are positioned in a very complex network where social and technical actors are equally important. Prior research on dimensions of electronic service quality (e-SQ) have only focused on technical issues. However, based on socio-technical reasons today IHPs positions in a heterogeneous network, social and technical are equally important in the network. This research is a conceptual paper therefore; the main aim of this research is to demonstrate the ability of integrating Actor-network Theory (ANT) into current e-SQ model and dividing dimensions of e-SQ into two categories: namely, human and non-human (social and technical).
Enhancing Understanding of Cross-Cultural ERP Implementation Impact with a FVM Perspective Enriched by ANT
Authors: Muhammad Imran , Wickramasinghe Nilmini
Published: April 2014

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems, and more especially their successful adoption and implementation, have been the subject of extensive research as can be evidenced by the large body of literature on this and related topics in the extant literature to date. However, the effect of cross-cultural issues has been less widely studied, perhaps because of the difficulty and complexity of such cross-cultural studies. In today's global business environment this remains a key issue and critical success factor. Hence, this paper explains how challenging the cross-cultural ERP implementation implementation success is for organizations and how important it is to assess a fit and viability of cross-cultural ERP implementations in diverse cultures (which is especially important in economies heavily reliant on off-shoring services). By drawing upon multiple streams of theory building, a framework, from the Fit-Viability Model (FVM) perspective, is developed. The framework provides important and valuable guiding principles for organizations for their decisions on adoption and deployment of Enterprise Systems (ES). Further, the paper proffers the use of ANT (Actor-Network Theory) to enrich the analysis and provides a systematic approach for moving forward with a multi-case study to test the proposed framework.
Technological Innovation and the Adoption of ICT in Thai Universities
Authors: Tatnall Arthur
Published: April 2014

This article makes use of Innovation Translation and Actor-Network Theory to re-analyse a study of Internet usage by academics in Business Schools in Public Universities in Thailand. There are a number of approaches to modelling technology adoption and this article begins by examining these and demonstrating how innovation translation can be useful. The original research, on which this article is based, was conducted in 2006 and analysed using a modified version of the Technology Acceptance Model with the support of techniques from Structured Equation Modelling. The original research suggested that only perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and self-efficacy significantly influenced actual usage behaviour. After making use of Structured Equation Modelling it then came up with an ‘Internet Acceptance Model'. This article, on the other hand, makes use of the same data but re-analyses it making use of Actor-Network Theory and Innovation Translation. In doing so it identifies some things not shown by the original quantitative research.
Between Blackboxing and Unfolding
Authors: Reite Ingrid Christine
Published: April 2014

In this article the author will analyse professional learning of pastors. Pastors can be an example of a value-oriented profession being both a keeper of traditions and an innovator facing the challenges of globalization and secularization. The analysis of pastor networks is therefore an interesting case of professional learning in a changing society. The author presents an ethnographic study of five pastors from the Church of Norway doing their everyday work. The author asks: What characterize the professional learning networks of pastors between blackboxing and unfolding? The analytical perspectives of Actor-Network Theory and Bruno Latour (1987) are employed, as the author argues that professional learning is a process of moving between “blackboxing” and “unfolding”. Thus, the author brings a socio-material perspective into the value-oriented field of education. The case of pastors can contribute to elaborate the tools for analysing professional learning The findings illuminate the challenges many professionals have today, namely to handle different modes of learning.
Multi-Agent Paradigm for Semantic Web Service in E-learning System
Authors: Al-Radaei Sami Ahmed Mohammed , Mishra R.B.
Published: April 2014

E-learning has become an alternative solution for the traditional learning. There is a need to manage the learning materials in e-learning environments in order to deliver it to learners according to their requirements. Semantic Web Services (SWS) aim at developing a machine understandable and common conceptual framework which share and accumulate concepts from different web service resources to meet a particular objective in question. Different SWS composition methods have been developed for different purposes and objectives. In this paper we have developed an Agent-based SWS composition method using two sets of agents i.e. Service Requester Agent (SRA) and Service Provider Agent (SPA) to represent the user's side and the solution side respectively for the problem of a course composition in e-learning systems. The SRA corresponds to requirements of different ebook/chapter and the SPA corresponds to books containing the relevant and required chapters in courseware. The course composition is primarily based on the important and relevant prime keywords in a courseware. Learning materials and other actors are described semantically in form of ontologies. Also, we present the use of reasoning rule to infer different relations between Agents, ebook/chapter and other actors in the proposed model.
Managing Stakeholder Concerns in Large-Scale Multi-Agent Information Systems
Authors: Gasmelseid Tagelsir Mohamed
Published: April 2014

Software agents' technology provides a variety of decision support tools for the improvement of emergency response processes. It improves information availability, automates tasks and enhances information accessibility and sharing. However, due to the heterogeneity of emergency response data and the diversity of stakeholders (and accordingly their objectives), the identification and management of cross cutting concerns is looming very big. Over time, some software agent engineering methodologies are being used for the crystallization of cross cutting concerns and information requirements. This paper examines the limitations of such methodologies and proposes the use of system innovation concepts for the management of stakeholder concerns in the emergency response management system in Al Ahsaa area.
Preparing for Cyber Threats with Information Security Policies
Authors: Ilvonen Ilona , Virtanen Pasi
Published: April 2014

Contemporary organisations in any industry are increasingly dependent on information systems. Today most organisations are online all the time, and their internal systems are used in environments that are already or easily connected to the internet. The paper analyses cyber threats and their potential effect on the operations of different organisations with the use of scenario analysis. The scenarios are built based on a literature review. One outcome of the analysis is that to an organisation it is irrelevant where a cyber threat originates from and who it is targeted for. If the threat is specifically targeted to the organisation or if the threat is collateral in nature is not important; preparing for the threat is important in both cases. The paper discusses the pressures that the cyber threats pose to information security policies, and what the role of the information security policy could be in preparing for the threats.
DMA
Authors: Oguz Damla , Yildiz Baris , Ergenc Belgin
Published: April 2014

Updates on an operational database bring forth the challenge of keeping the frequent itemsets up-to-date without re-running the itemset mining algorithms. Studies on dynamic itemset mining, which is the solution to such an update problem, have to address some challenges as handling i) updates without re-running the base algorithm, ii) changes in the support threshold, iii) new items and iv) additions/deletions in updates. The study in this paper is the extension of the Incremental Matrix Apriori Algorithm which proposes solutions to the first three challenges besides inheriting the advantages of the base algorithm which works without candidate generation. In the authors' current work, the authors have improved a former algorithm as to handle updates that are composed of additions and deletions. The authors have also carried out a detailed performance evaluation study on a real and two benchmark datasets.
Rearranging Urban Space
Authors: Menichelli Francesca
Published: April 2014

This article investigates what happens to urban space once an open-street CCTV system is implemented, framing the analysis in terms of the wider struggle that unfolds between different urban stakeholders for the definition of acceptability in public space. It is argued that, while the use of surveillance cameras was initially seen as functional to the enforcement of tighter control and to the de-complexification of urban space so as to make policing easier, a shift has now taken place in the articulation of this goal. As a result, it has slowly progressed to affect the wider field of sociability, with troubling consequences for the public character of public space. In light of this development, the article concludes by making the case for a normative stance to be taken in order to increase fairness and diversity in the city.
Surveillance Regulation in Mexico City - Cameras and Urban Segregation
Authors: Botello Nelson Arteaga
Published: April 2014

This article analyzes the law regulating the use of technology for public security in Mexico City and its relevance for urban e-planning. The law establishes a legal framework for the installation of video surveillance systems and equipment, in particular surveillance cameras, with the goal of preventing, inhibiting and combating illegal behavior, as well as guaranteeing order and tranquility of the population. This article explores the relationship between some aspects about video cameras, law, media and urban social control in Mexico City. The idea is to show how the law governing the installation and use of surveillance cameras in the city defines security and safety within a large urban renewal project, while opening the possibility of legitimizing a particular type of city government.