Casimir Effect in Hyperbolic Polygons

We derive a trace formula for the spectra of quantum mechanical systems in hyperbolic polygons which are the fundamental domains of discrete isometry groups acting in the two dimensional hyperboloid. Using this trace formula and the point splitting regularization method we calculate the Casimir energy for a scalar fields in such domains. The dependence of the vacuum energy on the number of vertexes is established.Comment: Latex, 1

Non-targeted metabolite profiling highlights the potential of strawberry leaves as a resource for specific bioactive compounds

Background: The non-edible parts of horticultural crops, such as leaves, contain substantial amounts of valuable bioactive compounds which are currently only little exploited. For example strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) leaves may be a promising bioresource for diverse health-related applications. However, product standardization sets a real challenge, especially when the leaf material comes from varying cultivars. The first step towards better quality control of berry fruit leaf-based ingredients and supplements is to understand metabolites present and their stability in different plant cultivars, so we surveyed the distribution of potentially bioactive strawberry leaf metabolites in six different strawberry cultivars. Non-targeted metabolite profiling analysis using LC-qTOF-ESI-MS with data processing via principal component analysis and k-means clustering analysis were utilized to examine the differences and commonalities between the leaf metabolite profiles.Results: Quercetin and kaempferol derivatives were the dominant flavonol groups in strawberry leaves. Previously described and novel caffeic and chlorogenic acid derivatives were among the major phenolic acids. In addition, ellagitannins were one of the distinguishing compound classes in strawberry leaves. In general, strawberry leaves also contained high levels of octadecatrienoic acid derivatives, precursors of valuable odor compounds.Conclusions: The specific bioactive compounds found in the leaves of different strawberry cultivars offer the potential for the selection of optimized leaf materials for added-value food and for non-food applications.</p

Alternative uses for co-products: Harnessing the potential of valuable compounds from meat processing chains

peer-reviewedOpportunities for exploiting the inherent value of protein-rich meat processing co-products, in the context of increased global demand for protein and for sustainable processing systems, are discussed. While direct consumption maybe the most profitable route for some, this approach is influenced greatly by local and cultural traditions. A more profitable and sustainable approach may be found in recognizing this readily available and under-utilised resource can provide high value components, such as proteins, with targeted high value functionality of relevance to a variety of sectors. Applications in food & beverages, petfood biomedical and nutrition arenas are discussed. Utilization of the raw material in its entirety is a necessary underlying principle in this approach to help maintain minimum waste generation. Understanding consumer attitudes to these products, in particular when used in food or beverage systems, is critical in optimizing commercialization strategies.This work forms part of the ReValueProtein Research Project (Grant Award No. 11/F/043) which is supported by the Irish Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) and the Food Institutional Research Measure (FIRM) both funded by the Irish Government under the National Development Plan 2007–2013.Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marin

Regulating disasters? The role of international law in disaster prevention and management

Purpose – This article explores the role of international law in disaster prevention and management, with a particular focus on the emerging field of international disaster law, and its relationship with international human rights law. It further introduces the four articles of the special column of this journal issue, dedicated to disasters and international law. Design/methodology/approach – The analysis is based upon primary sources of legislation and policy, as well as academic literature on disasters and international law. Findings – Although the field of international disaster law is at its infancy, we argue that this emergent area does have the potential to gain widespread recognition as a distinct field of law, and that this could be of benefit for the wider disaster management community. Originality/value – The article introduces key legal features and themes relating to international law and disasters, highlighting their relevance for disaster management. The added value is to widen the discussion on aspects of disasters regulated by international law, thus facilitating the future exchange with other academic subjects and operational fields. Keywords – disasters; international law; disaster management; treaties; human rights; international disaster law; international human rights law. Paper type – Research pape

List of Protected Areas listed under SPAW Protocol (Cartagena Convention)

List of 36 protected areas listed under SPAW Protocol (Cartagena Convention). Updated: 10/08/2021

Status of the Cartagena Convention and protocols = Estado de la Convención de Cartagena y protocolos = État de la Convention de Carthagène et ses protocoles

Contiene la lista de los países signatarios de la Convención de Cartagena y sus protocolos, y las fechas de su adhesión o ratificación a cada uno de de estos acuerdos: Protocolo Relativo a la Cooperación para Combatir los Derrames de Hidrocarburos en la Región del Gran Caribe; 2) Protocolo Relativo a las Áreas y a la Flora y Fauna Silvestres Especialmente Protegidas del Convenio para la Protección y el Desarrollo del Medio Marino en la Región del Gran Caribe (SPAW Protocol); y 3) Protocolo Relativo a la Contaminación Procedente de Fuentes y Actividades Terrestres (Landbased Sources -LBS- Protocol)

List of Protected Areas listed under SPAW Protocol (Cartagena Convention)

List of 36 protected areas listed under SPAW Protocol (Cartagena Convention). Updated: 21/03/2022