bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Production of Laccase by a New Myrothecium verrucaria MD-R-16 Isolated from Pigeon Pea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.] and its Application on Dye Decolorization
Authors: Sun Jiao , Guo Na , Niu Li-Li , Wang Qing-Fang , Zang Yu-Ping , Zu Yuan-Gang , Fu Yu-Jie
Published: April 2017

The present study was conducted to screen a laccase-producing fungal endophyte, optimize fermentation conditions, and evaluate the decolorization ability of the laccase. A new fungal endophyte capable of laccase-producing was firstly isolated from pigeon pea and identified as Myrothecium verrucaria based on a ITS-rRNA sequences analysis. Meanwhile, various fermentation parameters on the laccase production were optimized via response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal fermentation conditions were a fermentation time of five days, temperature 30 °C and pH 6.22. Laccase activity reached 16.52 ± 0.18 U/mL under the above conditions. Furthermore, the laccase showed effective decolorization capability toward synthetic dyes (Congo red, Methyl orange, Methyl red, and Crystal violet) in the presence of the redox mediator ABTS, with more than 70% of dyes decolorizing after 24 h of incubation. Additionally, the activity of laccase was relatively stable with pH (4.5–6.5) and a temperature range of 35–55 °C. Therefore, the high laccase production of the strain and the new fungal laccase could provide a promising alterative approach for industrial and environmental applications.
The Influence of Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticle Morphology on Embryonic Development in a Zebrafish Exposure Model
Authors: Pujari-Palmer Shiuli , Lu Xi , Karlsson Ott Marjam
Published: April 2017

Nanomaterials are used in many different industries such as cosmetics, food, clothing, and electronics. There is increasing concern that exposure to nanoparticles (NPs) during pregnancy can adversely affect fetal development. It is well known that the size, charge, and chemistry of a nanoparticle can modulate embryological development. The role that particle morphology plays on early development, however, is still widely unknown. The present study aims to investigate the effect of hydroxyapatite nanoparticle (HANP) morphology on embryological development in a zebrafish exposure model. Four distinct HANP morphologies (dots, long rods, sheets, and fibers) were fabricated and characterized. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to HANPs (0–100 mg/L), and viability and developmental deformities were evaluated for up to 5 days post-fertilization (dpf). Malformations such as pericardial edema and axial curvature were apparent in embryos as early as 1 dpf, following exposure to the dot and fiber particles, and developed in embryos by 3 dpf in the sheet and long rod particle groups. Minimal death was observed in response to dot, long rod, and sheet particles (≤25%), while fiber particles induced overwhelming toxicity (≤60%) after 1 dpf, and complete toxicity during all subsequent time points. Collectively, these results suggest that nanoparticle morphology can significantly impact embryological development and should be a required consideration when designing nanomaterials for commercial use.
Bioactivity Studies on Titania Coatings and the Estimation of Their Usefulness in the Modification of Implant Surfaces
Authors: Radtke Aleksandra , Topolski Adrian , Jędrzejewski Tomasz , Kozak Wiesław , Sadowska Beata , Więckowska-Szakiel Marzena , Piszczek Piotr
Published: April 2017

Morphologically different titania coatings (nanofibers (TNFs), nanoneedles (TNNs), and nanowires (TNWs)) were studied as potential biomedical materials. The abovementioned systems were produced in situ on Ti6Al4V substrates via direct oxidation processes using H2O2 and H2O2/CaCl2 agents, and via thermal oxidation in the presence of Ar and Ar/H2O2. X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopy have been used to structurally characterize the produced materials. The morphology changes on the titanium alloy surface were investigated using scanning electron microscopy. The bioactivity of the samples has been estimated by the analysis of the produced titania coatings’ biocompatibility, and by the determination of their ability to reduce bacterial biofilm formation. The photoactivity of the produced nanocoatings was also analyzed, in order to determine the possibility of using titania coated implant surfaces in the sterilization process of implants. Photocatalytic activity was estimated using the methylene blue photodegradation kinetics, in the presence of UV light.
Gold Nanoparticles for Modulating Neuronal Behavior
Authors: Paviolo Chiara , Stoddart Paul
Published: April 2017

Understanding the detailed functioning and pathophysiology of the brain and the nervous system continues to challenge the scientific community, particularly in terms of scaling up techniques for monitoring and interfacing with complex 3D networks. Nanotechnology has the potential to support this scaling up, where the eventual goal would be to address individual nerve cells within functional units of both the central and peripheral nervous system. Gold nanoparticles provide a variety of physical and chemical properties that have attracted attention as a light-activated nanoscale neuronal interface. This review provides a critical overview of the photothermal and photomechanical properties of chemically functionalized gold nanoparticles that have been exploited to trigger a range of biological responses in neuronal tissues, including modulation of electrical activity and nerve regeneration. The prospects and challenges for further development are also discussed.
Associations between Diet and Toenail Arsenic Concentration among Pregnant Women in Bangladesh: A Prospective Study
Authors: Lin Pi-I. , Bromage Sabri , Mostofa Md. , Allen Joseph , Oken Emily , Kile Molly , Christiani David
Published: April 2017

This prospective study evaluated the relationship between long-term dietary habits and total arsenic (As) concentration in toenail clippings in a cohort of 1616 pregnant women in the Bangladeshi administrative regions of Sirajdikhan and Pabna Sadar. Diet was assessed at Gestation Week 28 and at Postpartum Month 1, using a locally-validated dish-based semi-quantitative food-frequency questionnaire. Toenail As concentration was analyzed by microwave-assisted acid digestion and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Associations between natural log-transformed consumption of individual food items and temporally matched natural log-transformed toenail As concentration were quantified using general linear models that accounted for As concentration in the primary drinking water source and other potential confounders. The analysis was stratified by As in drinking water (≤50 μg/L versus >50 μg/L) and the time of dietary assessment (Gestation Week 28 versus Postpartum Week 1). Interestingly, toenail As was not significantly associated with consumption of plain rice as hypothesized. However, toenail As was positively associated with consumption of several vegetable, fish and meat items and was negatively associated with consumption of rice, cereal, fruits, and milk based food items. Further studies in pregnant women are needed to compare As metabolism at different levels of As exposure and the interaction between dietary composition and As absorption.
Comparison of Insulin Detemir and Insulin Glargine for Hospitalized Patients on a Basal-Bolus Protocol
Authors: Davis Sondra , Friece Chad , Roderman Nicki , Newcomer Darrell , Castaneda Evangelina
Published: April 2017

BACKGROUND: The primary purpose of this study is to determine whether insulin detemir is equivalent to insulin glargine in controlling hyperglycemia for the adult hospitalized patient on a basal-bolus treatment regimen. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted at two acute care hospitals within the same health system. Patients from both facilities who were initiated on a basal-bolus subcutaneous insulin regimen were included in the study. The basal-bolus regimen consisted of three components: basal, bolus, and corrective insulin with only the data from the first seven days analyzed. Once the basal-bolus protocol was initiated, all previous glycemic agents were discontinued. The target glycemic goal of the study was 100–180 mg/dL. RESULTS: In both groups, 50% of the patients had achieved the target glycemic control goal (100–180 mg/dL) by day 2 (p = 0.3). However, on the seventh or last day of basal-bolus treatment, whichever came first, 36.36% of patients receiving insulin detemir (n = 88) achieved the blood glucose reading goal compared to 52.00% in patients receiving insulin glargine (n = 100) (p = 0.03). This corresponded to an adjusted odds ratio of 2.12 (1.08 to 4.15), p = 0.03. The adjusting variables were provider type, whether the patient was hospitalized within 30 days prior and diagnosis of stroke. The mean blood glucose readings for the insulin glargine and the insulin detemir groups while on basal-bolus therapy were 200 mg/dL and 215 mg/dL, respectively (p = 0.05). The total number of blood glucose readings less than 70 mg/dL and less than 45 mg/dL was very low and there were no differences in number of episodes with hypoglycemia between the two groups. CONCLUSION: There was not a statistical difference between the two groups at 2 days, however there was on the seventh day or the last day of basal-bolus treatment. There were nonsignificant hypoglycemia events between basal insulin groups and the results for the last or seventh day of treatment may not be clinically significant in practice.
Pollen Grain Preservation and Fertility in Valuable Commercial Rose Cultivars
Authors: Giovannini Annalisa , Macovei Anca , Caser Matteo , Mansuino Andrea , Ghione Gian , Savona Marco , Carbonera Daniela , Scariot Valentina , Balestrazzi Alma
Published: April 2017

In the cut flower market, traditional breeding is still the best way to achieve new rose cultivars. The geographical delocalization of cultivar constitution (generally made in Europe and North America) and plant cultivation (large areas in Africa and South America) represents a limit point for crossing and selection. Rose breeders often need to overcome geographical distances, resulting in asynchrony in flowering among crossing parents, by storing and sending pollen. Hence, a key aspect in breeding programs is linked to pollen availability and conservation, jointly with the identification of parameters related to pollen fertility. In this study we present the results of three different trials. In the first, pollen diameter and pollen viability were chosen as fertility predictors of 10 Rosa hybrida commercial cultivars. In the second trial, aliquots of dried pollen grains of six R. hybrida cultivar were stored under two different temperatures (freezer at T = −20 °C and deep freezer at T = −80 °C) and after a wide range of conservation period, their viability was measured. In the third trial, the effective fertilization capacity of frozen pollen of 19 pollen donor cultivars was evaluated during 2015 crossing breeding plan, performing 44 hybridizations and correlating the number of seeds and the ratio seeds/crossing, obtained by each cultivar, with in vitro pollen germination ability.
Anti-Microbial Biopolymer Hydrogel Scaffolds for Stem Cell Encapsulation
Authors: Kühn Philipp , Rozenbaum René , Perrels Estelle , Sharma Prashant , Van Rijn Patrick
Published: April 2017

Biopolymer hydrogels are an attractive class of materials for wound dressings and other biomedical applications because of their ease of use and availability from biomass. Here, we present a hydrogel formation approach based on alginate and chitosan. Alginate is conventionally cross-linked using multivalent ions such as Ca2+ but in principle any polycationic species can be used such as polyelectrolytes. Exchanging the cross-linking Ca2+ ions partially with chitosan, which at pH 7 has available positive charges as well as good interactions with Ca2+, leads to an improved Young’s modulus. This gel is non-toxic to mammalian cells and hence allows conveniently for stem cell encapsulation since it is based on two-component mixing and gel formation. Additionally, the chitosan is known to have a bactericidal effect which is retained when using it in the alginate–chitosan gel formation and the formed hydrogels displayed bactericidal effects against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. The combination of anti-bacterial properties, inclusion of stem cells, and the hydrogel nature would provide an ideal environment for complex wound healing.
Social Media Usage for Patients and Healthcare Consumers: A Literature Review
Authors: Cordoş Ariana-Anamaria , Bolboacă Sorana , Drugan Cristina
Published: April 2017

The evolution of Internet from static Web “publishing” to the highly participative, and data-driven, innovations of Web 2.0 has been influencing how people search for health-related information. This review included studies indexed in the PubMed electronic database that focused on social media analysis, examining relationships between participants (patients and healthcare consumers) through social media usage. The obtained results showed that previous research regarding social media’s impact on patients and healthcare consumers aimed at a combination of platforms, but there is a penury of information about niche topics or its usage for retrieving medical information. Nevertheless, social media proved to be to be a promising tool in research mainly for recruitment purposes. The review has outlined that eHealth literacy is an attribute for populations that are female and relatively young and educated. Blogs share personal experiences, YouTube contains unregulated, high- and low-quality information that can mislead individuals, Facebook contains more marketing than health-related information, while Wikipedia is recommended for providing high-quality information. Despite healthcare practitioners’ and healthcare public institutions’ reluctance about the use of social media, this review demonstrates the usefulness of social media for patients and healthcare consumers in retrieving health-related information based on content availability and usage implications, and highlights gaps in knowledge that further research needs to fill.
That Which Was Ecstasy Shall Become Daily Bread
Authors: Andrews Barry
Published: April 2017

This paper attempts to answer three questions: (1) Was Emerson a mystic? (2) If so, what is the nature of his mysticism? (3) How has his understanding of mysticism influenced by Unitarian theology and spiritual practice? In doing so, it draws upon historical and contemporary studies of mysticism and mystical experience, including those of William James, Leigh Eric Schmidt, and Bernard McGinn among others; the writings of Emerson, including his essays, lectures, and journals, and, finally, the testimonies of his contemporaries and succeeding generations of Unitarian religious leaders. Answering the first question in the affirmative, the paper examines Emerson’s understanding of mysticism as a departure from a devotional form of mysticism focused on relationship with a personalized deity and toward a naturalistic, transpersonal type of mysticism, and traces its influence within the context of Unitarian history.
Soil Moisture Estimation over Vegetated Agricultural Areas: Tigris Basin, Turkey from Radarsat-2 Data by Polarimetric Decomposition Models and a Generalized Regression Neural Network
Authors: Özerdem Mehmet , Acar Emrullah , Ekinci Remzi
Published: April 2017

Determining the soil moisture in agricultural fields is a significant parameter to use irrigation systems efficiently. In contrast to standard soil moisture measurements, good results might be acquired in a shorter time over large areas by remote sensing tools. In order to estimate the soil moisture over vegetated agricultural areas, a relationship between Radarsat-2 data and measured ground soil moistures was established by polarimetric decomposition models and a generalized regression neural network (GRNN). The experiments were executed over two agricultural sites on the Tigris Basin, Turkey. The study consists of four phases. In the first stage, Radarsat-2 data were acquired on different dates and in situ measurements were implemented simultaneously. In the second phase, the Radarsat-2 data were pre-processed and the GPS coordinates of the soil sample points were imported to this data. Then the standard sigma backscattering coefficients with the Freeman–Durden and H/A/α polarimetric decomposition models were employed for feature extraction and a feature vector with four sigma backscattering coefficients (σhh, σhv, σvh, and σvv) and six polarimetric decomposition parameters (entropy, anisotropy, alpha angle, volume scattering, odd bounce, and double bounce) were generated for each pattern. In the last stage, GRNN was used to estimate the regional soil moisture with the aid of feature vectors. The results indicated that radar is a strong remote sensing tool for soil moisture estimation, with mean absolute errors around 2.31 vol %, 2.11 vol %, and 2.10 vol % for Datasets 1–3, respectively; and 2.46 vol %, 2.70 vol %, 7.09 vol %, and 5.70 vol % on Datasets 1 & 2, 2 & 3, 1 & 3, and 1 & 2 & 3, respectively.
A Weighted Belief Entropy-Based Uncertainty Measure for Multi-Sensor Data Fusion
Authors: Tang Yongchuan , Zhou Deyun , Xu Shuai , He Zichang
Published: April 2017

In real applications, how to measure the uncertain degree of sensor reports before applying sensor data fusion is a big challenge. In this paper, in the frame of Dempster–Shafer evidence theory, a weighted belief entropy based on Deng entropy is proposed to quantify the uncertainty of uncertain information. The weight of the proposed belief entropy is based on the relative scale of a proposition with regard to the frame of discernment (FOD). Compared with some other uncertainty measures in Dempster–Shafer framework, the new measure focuses on the uncertain information represented by not only the mass function, but also the scale of the FOD, which means less information loss in information processing. After that, a new multi-sensor data fusion approach based on the weighted belief entropy is proposed. The rationality and superiority of the new multi-sensor data fusion method is verified according to an experiment on artificial data and an application on fault diagnosis of a motor rotor.
Implementation Issues of Adaptive Energy Detection in Heterogeneous Wireless Networks
Authors: Sobron Iker , Eizmendi Iñaki , Martins Wallace , Diniz Paulo , Ordiales Juan , Velez Manuel
Published: April 2017

Spectrum sensing (SS) enables the coexistence of non-coordinated heterogeneous wireless systems operating in the same band. Due to its computational simplicity, energy detection (ED) technique has been widespread employed in SS applications; nonetheless, the conventional ED may be unreliable under environmental impairments, justifying the use of ED-based variants. Assessing ED algorithms from theoretical and simulation viewpoints relies on several assumptions and simplifications which, eventually, lead to conclusions that do not necessarily meet the requirements imposed by real propagation environments. This work addresses those problems by dealing with practical implementation issues of adaptive least mean square (LMS)-based ED algorithms. The paper proposes a new adaptive ED algorithm that uses a variable step-size guaranteeing the LMS convergence in time-varying environments. Several implementation guidelines are provided and, additionally, an empirical assessment and validation with a software defined radio-based hardware is carried out. Experimental results show good performance in terms of probabilities of detection ( P d > 0 . 9 ) and false alarm ( P f ∼ 0 . 05 ) in a range of low signal-to-noise ratios around [ - 4 , 1 ] dB, in both single-node and cooperative modes. The proposed sensing methodology enables a seamless monitoring of the radio electromagnetic spectrum in order to provide band occupancy information for an efficient usage among several wireless communications systems.
Probabilistic Fatigue Life Updating for Railway Bridges Based on Local Inspection and Repair
Authors: Lee Young-Joo , Kim Robin , Suh Wonho , Park Kiwon
Published: April 2017

Railway bridges are exposed to repeated train loads, which may cause fatigue failure. As critical links in a transportation network, railway bridges are expected to survive for a target period of time, but sometimes they fail earlier than expected. To guarantee the target bridge life, bridge maintenance activities such as local inspection and repair should be undertaken properly. However, this is a challenging task because there are various sources of uncertainty associated with aging bridges, train loads, environmental conditions, and maintenance work. Therefore, to perform optimal risk-based maintenance of railway bridges, it is essential to estimate the probabilistic fatigue life of a railway bridge and update the life information based on the results of local inspections and repair. Recently, a system reliability approach was proposed to evaluate the fatigue failure risk of structural systems and update the prior risk information in various inspection scenarios. However, this approach can handle only a constant-amplitude load and has limitations in considering a cyclic load with varying amplitude levels, which is the major loading pattern generated by train traffic. In addition, it is not feasible to update the prior risk information after bridges are repaired. In this research, the system reliability approach is further developed so that it can handle a varying-amplitude load and update the system-level risk of fatigue failure for railway bridges after inspection and repair. The proposed method is applied to a numerical example of an in-service railway bridge, and the effects of inspection and repair on the probabilistic fatigue life are discussed.
Improving Passive Time Reversal Underwater Acoustic Communications Using Subarray Processing
Authors: He Chengbing , Jing Lianyou , Xi Rui , Li Qinyuan , Zhang Qunfei
Published: April 2017

Multichannel receivers are usually employed in high-rate underwater acoustic communication to achieve spatial diversity. In the context of multichannel underwater acoustic communications, passive time reversal (TR) combined with a single-channel adaptive decision feedback equalizer (TR-DFE) is a low-complexity solution to achieve both spatial and temporal focusing. In this paper, we present a novel receiver structure to combine passive time reversal with a low-order multichannel adaptive decision feedback equalizer (TR-MC-DFE) to improve the performance of the conventional TR-DFE. First, the proposed method divides the whole received array into several subarrays. Second, we conduct passive time reversal processing in each subarray. Third, the multiple subarray outputs are equalized with a low-order multichannel DFE. We also investigated different channel estimation methods, including least squares (LS), orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP), and improved proportionate normalized least mean squares (IPNLMS). The bit error rate (BER) and output signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) performances of the receiver algorithms are evaluated using simulation and real data collected in a lake experiment. The source-receiver range is 7.4 km, and the data rate with quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) signal is 8 kbits/s. The uncoded BER of the single input multiple output (SIMO) systems varies between 1 × 10 − 1 and 2 × 10 − 2 for the conventional TR-DFE, and between 1 × 10 − 2 and 1 × 10 − 3 for the proposed TR-MC-DFE when eight hydrophones are utilized. Compared to conventional TR-DFE, the average output SNR of the experimental data is enhanced by 3 dB.
Collaborative CAD Synchronization Based on a Symmetric and Consistent Modeling Procedure
Authors: Wu Yiqi , He Fazhi , Han Soonhung
Published: April 2017

One basic issue with collaborative computer aided design (Co-CAD) is how to maintain valid and consistent modeling results across all design sites. Moreover, modeling history is important in parametric CAD modeling. Therefore, different from a typical co-editing approach, this paper proposes a novel method for Co-CAD synchronization, in which all Co-CAD sites maintain symmetric and consistent operating procedures. Consequently, the consistency of both modeling results and history can be achieved. In order to generate a valid, unique, and symmetric queue among collaborative sites, a set of correlated mechanisms is presented in this paper. Firstly, the causal relationship of operations is maintained. Secondly, the operation queue is reconstructed for partial concurrency operation, and the concurrent operation can be retrieved. Thirdly, a symmetric, concurrent operation control strategy is proposed to determine the order of operations and resolve possible conflicts. Compared with existing Co-CAD consistency methods, the proposed method is convenient and flexible in supporting collaborative design. The experiment performed based on the collaborative modeling procedure demonstrates the correctness and applicability of this work.
Measurement of Assistive Technology Outcomes Associated with Computer-Based Writing Interventions for Children and Youth with Disabilities
Authors: Ryan Stephen , Sophianopoulos Mary-Beth
Published: April 2017

Young people who have chronic disabilities use computer technologies and receive rehabilitation services to overcome functional limitations associated with writing activities. However, the functional impact of these specialized assistive technologies on the everyday lives of children is not clearly understood; in part due to the lack of targeted outcome measures. This article describes the development and evaluation of the Family Impact of Assistive Technology Scale for Writing Interventions (FIATS-WI). The FIATS-WI is a multi-dimensional, parent-report questionnaire designed to measure child functioning and outcomes associated with computer-based writing interventions for children and youth aged 5–18 years. Participants included parents of children with writing-related disabilities who completed the questionnaire at home during one of two study phases. In the first phase, 121 eligible parents, out of 364 invited, completed a single administration of the questionnaire. In the second phase, 28 out of 33 eligible parents completed the FIATS-WI twice to assess its stability. Item and subscale correlations informed an item reduction plan, and Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients provided acceptable estimates for internal consistency and test–retest reliability, respectively. Correlations between FIATS-WI scores and scores from a standardized home participation measure tested its convergent validity. The study provides emerging evidence for the FIATS-WI as a sound measure of computer-based writing technology outcomes for children and youth with disabilities.
Correction: Ruiz, E. et al. Emerging Interaction Patterns in the Emiliania Huxleyi-EhV System. Viruses 2016, 9, 61
Authors: Ruiz Eliana , Oosterhof Monique , Sandaa Ruth-Anne , Larsen Aud , Pagarete António
Published: April 2017

The authors wish to make the following change to their paper [...]
Mapping Heart Development in Flies: Src42A Acts Non-Autonomously to Promote Heart Tube Formation in Drosophila
Authors: Vanderploeg Jessica , Jacobs J.
Published: April 2017

Congenital heart defects, clinically identified in both small and large animals, are multifactorial and complex. Although heritable factors are known to have a role in cardiovascular disease, the full genetic aetiology remains unclear. Model organism research has proven valuable in providing a deeper understanding of the essential factors in heart development. For example, mouse knock-out studies reveal a role for the Integrin adhesion receptor in cardiac tissue. Recent research in Drosophila melanogaster (the fruit fly), a powerful experimental model, has demonstrated that the link between the extracellular matrix and the cell, mediated by Integrins, is required for multiple aspects of cardiogenesis. Here we test the hypothesis that Integrins signal to the heart cells through Src42A kinase. Using the powerful genetics and cell biology analysis possible in Drosophila, we demonstrate that Src42A acts in early events of heart tube development. Careful examination of mutant heart tissue and genetic interaction data suggests that Src42A’s role is independent of Integrin and the Integrin-related Focal Adhesion Kinase. Rather, Src42A acts non-autonomously by promoting programmed cell death of the amnioserosa, a transient tissue that neighbors the developing heart.
Dissecting the Role of the Extracellular Matrix in Heart Disease: Lessons from the Drosophila Genetic Model
Authors: Hughes Chris , Jacobs J.
Published: April 2017

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic scaffold within organs and tissues that enables cell morphogenesis and provides structural support. Changes in the composition and organisation of the cardiac ECM are required for normal development. Congenital and age-related cardiac diseases can arise from mis-regulation of structural ECM proteins (Collagen, Laminin) or their receptors (Integrin). Key regulators of ECM turnover include matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors, tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs). MMP expression is increased in mice, pigs, and dogs with cardiomyopathy. The complexity and longevity of vertebrate animals makes a short-lived, genetically tractable model organism, such as Drosophila melanogaster, an attractive candidate for study. We survey ECM macromolecules and their role in heart development and growth, which are conserved between Drosophila and vertebrates, with focus upon the consequences of altered expression or distribution. The Drosophila heart resembles that of vertebrates during early development, and is amenable to in vivo analysis. Experimental manipulation of gene function in a tissue- or temporally-regulated manner can reveal the function of adhesion or ECM genes in the heart. Perturbation of the function of ECM proteins, or of the MMPs that facilitate ECM remodelling, induces cardiomyopathies in Drosophila, including cardiodilation, arrhythmia, and cardia bifida, that provide mechanistic insight into cardiac disease in mammals.
Comparison of IMERG Level-3 and TMPA 3B42V7 in Estimating Typhoon-Related Heavy Rain
Authors: Wang Ren , Chen Jianyao , Wang Xianwei
Published: April 2017

Typhoon-related heavy rain has unique structures in both time and space, and use of satellite-retrieved products to delineate the structure of heavy rain is especially meaningful for early warning systems and disaster management. This study compares two newly-released satellite products from the Integrated Multi-satellitE Retrievals for Global Precipitation Measurement (IMERG final run) and the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multi-satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA 3B42V7) with daily rainfall observed by ground rain gauges. The comparison is implemented for eight typhoons over the coastal region of China for a two-year period from 2014 to 2015. The results show that all correlation coefficients (CCs) of both IMERG and TMPA for the investigated typhoon events are significant at the 0.01 level, but they tend to underestimate the heavy rainfall, especially around the storm center. The IMERG final run exhibits an overall better performance than TMPA 3B42V7. It is also shown that both products have a better applicability (i.e., a smaller absolute relative bias) when rain intensities are within 20–40 and 80–100 mm/day than those of 40–80 mm/day and larger than 100 mm/day. In space, they generally have the best applicability within the range of 50–100 km away from typhoon tracks, and have the worst applicability beyond the 300-km range. The results are beneficial to understand the errors of satellite data in operational applications, such as storm monitoring and hydrological modeling.
Adaptation of Cascade Hydropower Station Scheduling on A Headwater Stream of the Yangtze River under Changing Climate Conditions
Authors: Zhai Ming , Lin Qian , Huang Guo , Zhu Le , An Kai , Li Gong , Huang Yue
Published: April 2017

Cascade hydropower stations are effective in water resource utilization, regional water allocation, and flood risk management. Under changing climate conditions, water resources would experience complex temporal and spatial changes, which may lead to various issues relating to flood control and water resource management, and challenge the existing optimal scheduling of cascade hydropower stations. It is thus important to conduct a study on cascade hydropower station scheduling under changing climate conditions. In this study, the Jinsha River rainfall–discharge statistical model is developed based on the statistical relationship between meteorological and runoff indicators. Validation results indicate that the developed model is capable of generating satisfactory simulation results and thus can be used for future Jinsha River runoff projection under climate change. Meanwhile, the Providing Regional Climates for Impacts Studies (PRECIS) is run to project future rainfall in the Jinsha River basin under two General Circulation Models (ECHAM5 and HadAM3P), two scenarios (A1B and B2), and four periods (1961–1990, 1991–2020, 2021–2050, and 2051–2099). The regional climate modeling data are analyzed and then fed into the Jinsha hydrological model to analyze the trends of future discharge at Xiangjiaba Hydro Station. Adaptive scheduling strategies for cascade hydropower stations are discussed based on the future inflow trend analysis and current flood scheduling mode. It is suggested that cascade hydropower stations could be operated at flood limited water level (FLWL) during 2021–2099. In addition, the impoundment of cascade hydropower stations should be properly delayed during the post-flood season in response to the possible occurrence of increased and extended inflow in wet seasons.
Performance and Yeast Tracking in A Full-Scale Oil-Containing Paromomycin Production Wastewater Treatment System Using Yeast
Authors: Wang Chunyan , Ding Ran , Gao Yingxin , Yang Min , Zhang Yu
Published: April 2017

High residual oil content in antibiotic production waste mother liquor makes solid–liquid separation of fermentation residue and wastewater difficult. A yeast-based pretreatment process was established for the removal of oil and promotion of solid–liquid separation in antibiotic production wastewater treatment systems. Six yeast strains acquired from different sources were inoculated into sequencing batch reactors (SBR) in pilot and full-scale wastewater treatment plants. Oil removal rates were 85.0%–92.0% and 61.4%–74.2%, and sludge settling velocities (SV) were 16.6%–21.3% and 22.6%–32.0% for the pilot and full-scale operations, respectively. 18S rRNA gene clone libraries were established to track the fates of the inoculated yeasts, which showed that Candida tropicalis was dominant in the full-scale plant. The fungi and bacteria gene copy ratio determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction was 14.87 during stable field operation, indicating that yeast successfully colonized. Both the pilot and full-scale studies proved that yeast can be used to promote solid–liquid separation, and yeast systems are a stable and effective method for oil-containing fermentation antibiotic production wastewater pretreatment.
Pluvial Flooding in European Cities—A Continental Approach to Urban Flood Modelling
Authors: Guerreiro Selma , Glenis Vassilis , Dawson Richard , Kilsby Chris
Published: April 2017

Pluvial flooding is caused by localized intense rainfall and the flood models used to assess it are normally applied on a city (or part of a city) scale using local rainfall records and a high resolution digital elevation model (DEM). Here, we attempt to model pluvial flooding on a continental scale and calculate the percentage of area flooded for all European cities for a 10-year return period for hourly rainfall (RP10). Difficulties in obtaining hourly rainfall records compromise the estimation of each city RP10 and the Europe-wide DEM spatial resolution is low relative to those typically used for individual case-studies. Nevertheless, the modelling capabilities and necessary computing power make this type of continental study now possible. This is a first attempt at continental city flooding modelling and our methodology was designed so that our results can easily be updated as better/more data becomes available. The results for each city depend on the interplay of rainfall intensity, the elevation map of the city and the flow paths that are created. In general, cities with lower percentage of city flooded are in the north and west coastal areas of Europe, while the higher percentages are seen in continental and Mediterranean areas.
Delayed or No Feedback? Gas Outflows in Type 2 AGNs. III.
Authors: Woo Jong-Hak , Son Donghoon , Bae Hyun-Jin
Published: April 2017

We present gas kinematics based on the [O iii]λ5007 line and their connection to galaxy gravitational potential, active galactic nucleus (AGN) energetics, and star formation, using a large sample of ∼110,000 AGNs and star-forming (SF) galaxies at z < 0.3. Gas and stellar velocity dispersions are comparable to each other in SF galaxies, indicating that the ionized gas kinematics can be accounted by the gravitational potential of host galaxies. In contrast, AGNs clearly show non-gravitational kinematics, which is comparable to or stronger than the virial motion caused by the gravitational potential. The [O iii] velocity–velocity dispersion (VVD) diagram dramatically expands toward high values as a function of AGN luminosity, implying that the outflows are AGN-driven, while SF galaxies do not show such a trend. We find that the fraction of AGNs with a signature of outflow kinematics, steeply increases with AGN luminosity and Eddington ratio. In particular, the majority of luminous AGNs presents strong non-gravitational kinematics in the [O iii] profile. AGNs with strong outflow signatures show on average similar specific star formation rates (sSFRs) to those of star-forming galaxies. In contrast, AGNs with weak or no outflows have an order of magnitude lower sSFRs, suggesting that AGNs with current strong outflows do now show any negative AGN feedback and that it may take dynamical time to impact on star formation over galactic scales.
Lyα Absorbers and the Coma Cluster
Authors: Yoon 윤 Joo Heon 주헌 , Putman M. E.
Published: April 2017

The spatial and kinematic distribution of warm gas in and around the Coma Cluster is presented through observations of Lyα absorbers using background QSOs. Updates to the Lyα absorber distribution found in Yoon et al. for the Virgo Cluster are also presented. At 0.2–2.0R
vir of Coma we identify 14 Lyα absorbers (

) toward 5 sightlines and no Lyα absorbers along 3 sightlines within

. For both Coma and Virgo, most Lyα absorbers are found outside the virial radius or beyond 1σ
v consistent with them largely representing the infalling intergalactic medium. The few exceptions in the central regions can be associated with galaxies. The Lyα absorbers avoid the hot ICM, consistent with the infalling gas being shock heated within the cluster. The massive dark matter halos of clusters do not show the increasing column density with decreasing impact parameter relationship found for the smaller mass galaxy halos. In addition, while the covering fraction within R
vir is lower for clusters than galaxies, beyond R
vir the covering fraction is somewhat higher for clusters. The velocity dispersion of the absorbers compared to the galaxies is higher for Coma, consistent with the absorbers tracing additional turbulent gas motions in the cluster outskirts. The results are overall consistent with cosmological simulations, with the covering fraction being high in the observations standing out as the primary discrepancy.
On the Statistical Properties of the Lower Main Sequence
Authors: Angelou George C. , Bellinger Earl P. , Hekker Saskia , Basu Sarbani
Published: April 2017

Astronomy is in an era where all-sky surveys are mapping the Galaxy. The plethora of photometric, spectroscopic, asteroseismic, and astrometric data allows us to characterize the comprising stars in detail. Here we quantify to what extent precise stellar observations reveal information about the properties of a star, including properties that are unobserved, or even unobservable. We analyze the diagnostic potential of classical and asteroseismic observations for inferring stellar parameters such as age, mass, and radius from evolutionary tracks of solar-like oscillators on the lower main sequence. We perform rank correlation tests in order to determine the capacity of each observable quantity to probe structural components of stars and infer their evolutionary histories. We also analyze the principal components of classic and asteroseismic observables to highlight the degree of redundancy present in the measured quantities and demonstrate the extent to which information of the model parameters can be extracted. We perform multiple regression using combinations of observable quantities in a grid of evolutionary simulations and appraise the predictive utility of each combination in determining the properties of stars. We identify the combinations that are useful and provide limits to where each type of observable quantity can reveal information about a star. We investigate the accuracy with which targets in the upcoming TESS and PLATO missions can be characterized. We demonstrate that the combination of observations from GAIA and PLATO will allow us to tightly constrain stellar masses, ages, and radii with machine learning for the purposes of Galactic and planetary studies.
The 2015–2016 Outburst of the Classical EXor V1118 Ori
Authors: Giannini T. , Antoniucci S. , Lorenzetti D. , Munari U. , Causi G. Li , Manara C. F. , Nisini B. , Arkharov A. A. , Dallaporta S. , Di Paola A. , Giunta A. , Harutyunyan A. , Klimanov S. A. , Marchetti A. , Righetti G. L. , Rossi A. , Strafella F. , Testa V.
Published: April 2017

After a quiescence period of about 10 years, the classical EXor source V1118 Ori has undergone an accretion outburst in 2015 September. The maximum brightness (

mag) was reached in 2015 December and was maintained for several months. Since 2016 September, the source is in a declining phase. Photometry and low/high-resolution spectroscopy were obtained with MODS and LUCI2 at the Large Binocular Telescope, with the facilities at the Asiago 1.22 and 1.82 m telescopes, and with GIANO at the Telescopio Nazionale Galileo. The spectra are dominated by emission lines of H i and neutral metallic species. From line and continuum analysis we derive the mass accretion rate and its evolution during the outburst. Considering that extinction may vary between 1.5 and 2.9 mag, we obtain 

 = 0.3–2.0 10−8
M

yr−1 in quiescence and

 = 0.2–1.9 10−6
M

yr−1 at the outburst peak. The Balmer decrement shape has been interpreted by means of line excitation models, finding that from quiescence to outburst peak, the electron density has increased from ∼2 109 cm−3 to ∼4 1011 cm−3. The profiles of the metallic lines are symmetric and narrower than 100 km s−1, while H i and He i lines show prominent wings extending up to ±500 km s−1. The metallic lines likely originate at the base of the accretion columns, where neutrals are efficiently shielded against the ionizing photons, while faster ionized gas is closer to the star. Outflowing activity is testified by the detection of a variable P Cyg-like profile of the Hα and He i 1.08 μm lines.
Grandeur et décadence de la fonction déontologie. Une perspective sur le contrôle interne bancaire et financier
Authors: Lenglet Marc , Taupin Benjamin
Published: April 2017

Cet article propose une étude des évolutions subies par la fonction déontologie au sein des établissements de crédit et des entreprises d’investissement entre 2003 et 2006. Partant d’une approche qualitative associant observation-participante et analyse de données secondaires, nous mettons en évidence la coexistence de deux conceptions du contrôle interne : l’une trouvant ses racines dans la déontologie financière (intervenant ex ante ), l’autre dans le contrôle effectué a posteriori (intervenant ex post ). Sur le plan théorique, l’analyse se fonde sur les travaux consacrés par Paul Ricœur à l’articulation des notions d’éthique et de morale, et entend contribuer à la littérature en contrôle interne dans le secteur bancaire et financier. Nous montrons ainsi comment l’introduction de la notion de risque de non-conformité dans les textes réglementaires en 2005 a modifié la fonction déontologie. Cette analyse permet enfin de mettre en perspective les conséquences de cette évolution, qui consacre la conformation démonstrative à la norme aux dépens de la capacité à reconnaître en pratique dans les normes une prétention légitime à régler les conduites.
L’audit législatif aux frontières du pouvoir et de la politique
Authors: Malsch Bertrand , Morin Danielle
Published: April 2017

En étudiant le mandat de Sheila Fraser comme Vérificatrice générale (VG) du Canada de 2001 à 2011, cet article analyse la façon dont l’exercice de son pouvoir a permis de briser la structure de complicité qui tend généralement à lier l’action des Auditeurs législatifs aux intérêts du champ politique. Notre étude s’articule en particulier autour du scandale du programme des commandites dévoilé par la VG en 2004 et des événements qui ont suivi. Nos résultats mettent en évidence l’exercice d’un pouvoir multidimensionnel impliquant : 1) La mobilisation des armes réglementaires et législatives permettant de provoquer des conflits ouverts avec le champ politique ; 2) La défense du territoire réglementaire du VG et une pratique des missions d’audit de performance échappant au cadre restrictif d’une approche purement « technicienne » ; 3) La production d’un discours installant dans l’imaginaire collectif une représentation de l’action du VG comme un « justicier » indépendant des jeux politiques et au service de la population. Notre étude contribue ainsi à la littérature sur l’audit législatif en mettant en évidence la complexité de la dynamique de pouvoir exercé par le Vérificateur général et la porosité des frontières des territoires réglementaires et politiques.
Spin-offs : Enjeux comptables et financiers à travers la littérature
Authors: Navatte Patrick , Schier Guillaume
Published: April 2017

L’opération de spin-off s’apparente à une scission partielle, et s’analyse comme une stratégie à multiples détentes d’un point de vue comptable et financier. La maison mère se sépare de l’une de ses activités, dont les actions vont être introduites sur le marché. C’est l’occasion pour elle de préparer minutieusement l’opération du point de vue de la gestion des résultats comptables de la société scindée. Mais c’est aussi éventuellement pour elle la possibilité d’utiliser le spin-off comme instrument de gestion de sa décote boursière due à sa diversification, et comme outil de création de valeur. En plus d’un point sur la littérature comptable et financière relative aux spin-offs , un modèle général propose une vision intégrée des processus de spin-off qui est nécessaire et manquante actuellement.