bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orientation Asymmetric Surface Model for Membranes: Finsler Geometry Modeling
Authors: Proutorov Evgenii , Koibuchi Hiroshi
Published: April 2017

We study triangulated surface models with nontrivial surface metrices for membranes. The surface model is defined by a mapping r from a two-dimensional parameter space M to the three-dimensional Euclidean space R 3 . The metric variable g a b , which is always fixed to the Euclidean metric δ a b , can be extended to a more general non-Euclidean metric on M in the continuous model. The problem we focus on in this paper is whether such an extension is well defined or not in the discrete model. We find that a discrete surface model with a nontrivial metric becomes well defined if it is treated in the context of Finsler geometry (FG) modeling, where triangle edge length in M depends on the direction. It is also shown that the discrete FG model is orientation asymmetric on invertible surfaces in general, and for this reason, the FG model has a potential advantage for describing real physical membranes, which are expected to have some asymmetries for orientation-changing transformations.
Mind–Body Therapy for Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Herbert Anne , Esparham Anna
Published: April 2017

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is pervasive among the pediatric population and new treatments with minimal adverse effects are necessary to be studied. The purpose of this article is to review current research studying mind–body therapies for treatment of children diagnosed with ADHD. Literature was reviewed pertaining to the effectiveness of movement-based therapies and mindfulness/meditation-based therapies for ADHD. Many positive effects of yoga, Tai Chi, physical activity, and meditation may significantly improve symptoms of ADHD among children.
Re-Imagining Asian Religious Identity: Towards a Critical Pedagogy of Religion and Race in Australian Schools
Authors: Neilsen Rod , Arber Ruth , Weinmann Michiko
Published: April 2017

This paper is drawn from a research project that investigates the relationship between teachers’ understanding of the religious identity of Asian background students, and recent Australian curriculum initiatives focused on religion and religious identification. Based on responses from an Australia-wide survey, and follow-up interviews from teachers and principals in several Australian states, the project examined the ways that Australian teachers understand, respond to and talk about the religious identities of their students, and the implications of these demands for teacher practice and education. This paper is concerned with the findings from the interview phase that for a significant number of teachers, notions of religion were often elided with culture and race, and often subsumed by broader notions of a nominal ‘white’ Australian culture. Research conversations appeared framed by an often Christian perspective and sense of self, as opposed to a putative and Asian religious and cultural other. We argue that a better understanding of the ways that teachers participate in discourses of representations about Asian religious identities negotiated by Australian diasporic communities has direct implications for the refinement of policy and for teacher professional learning. In the light of our findings, we further argue that there is a need for curriculum, teachers and researchers to move beyond an understanding of culture and identity that is based on monolingual, monocultural and Anglocentric perspectives that frame the foreign as the ‘exotic’ other, and define it through references to limited, tokenistic artefacts of culture, which are reinforced by iconic use of language to talk about culture, religion and identity.
China Building Energy Consumption: Definitions and Measures from an Operational Perspective
Authors: Wei Wei , He Ling-Yun
Published: April 2017

China building energy consumption (BEC) has been gradually derived and also sparked attention. However, something worth discussing is estimating the BEC based on the definition of life cycle or building operation. In addition, there exists discrepancy in the previous studies and the real status of BEC has not been known well. In order to settle the disputes over the calculation of BEC, this paper establishes an appropriate accounting method of building energy to present the BEC situation in China and lays the foundation for policymakers to develop appropriate energy saving policies. Meanwhile, this study attempts to clarify the BEC to help policymakers assess the effect of environmental policies. Using the method in this document, we find that the energy consumption of buildings just accounts for 15%–16% of the final total energy consumption in China; by contrast, the previous studies usually have double accounting through a top-down approach if central heat supply of buildings was taken into additional consideration.
Space Vector Modulation for an Indirect Matrix Converter with Improved Input Power Factor
Authors: Tuyen Nguyen , Dzung Phan
Published: April 2017

Pulse width modulation strategies have been developed for indirect matrix converters (IMCs) in order to improve their performance. In indirect matrix converters, the LC input filter is used to remove input current harmonics and electromagnetic interference problems. Unfortunately, due to the existence of the input filter, the input power factor is diminished, especially during operation at low voltage outputs. In this paper, a new space vector modulation (SVM) is proposed to compensate for the input power factor of the indirect matrix converter. Both computer simulation and experimental studies through hardware implementation were performed to verify the effectiveness of the proposed modulation strategy.
Evaluation of Interface Defects in Inaccessible Reactor Shrink Fit Nozzle Welds Using Ultrasonic Waves
Authors: Lee Jaesun , Cho Younho
Published: April 2017

This study proposes an effective method to inspect inaccessible nuclear power reactor head nozzles using interface waves that propagate along the shrink fit boundary of a reactor head. The reactor head is relatively thick, which makes it difficult to inspect from the outside by conventional ultrasonic testing. However, interface waves can propagate a long distance from a fixed transducer position. The inside of the nuclear reactor has limited access due to the high radiation, so the transducers are located outside the nuclear reactor head, and interface waves propagate into the nuclear reactor to detect defects. A numerical simulation and experiments were carried out to validate the method. Various defect cases that simulate field failures are also presented, and the proposed technique shows satisfactory defect classification.
The Influence of Monsoon Climate on Latewood Growth of Southwestern Ponderosa Pine
Authors: Kerhoulas Lucy , Kolb Thomas , Koch George
Published: April 2017

The North American Monsoon delivers warm season precipitation to much of the southwestern United States, yet the importance of this water source for forested ecosystems in the region is not well understood. While it is widely accepted that trees in southwestern forests use winter precipitation for earlywood production, the extent to which summer (monsoon season) precipitation supports latewood production is unclear. We used tree ring records, local climate data, and stable isotope analyses (δ18O) of water and cellulose to examine the importance of monsoon precipitation for latewood production in mature ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Dougl.) in northern Arizona. Our analyses identified monsoon season vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI) as significant effects on latewood growth, together explaining 39% of latewood ring width variation. Stem water and cellulose δ18O analyses suggest that monsoon precipitation was not directly used for latewood growth. Our findings suggest that mature ponderosa pines in this region utilize winter precipitation for growth throughout the entire year. The influence of monsoon precipitation on growth is indirect and mediated by its effect on atmospheric moisture stress (VPD). Together, summer VPD and antecedent soil moisture conditions have a strong influence on latewood growth.
Approach to Facilitating Geospatial Data and Metadata Publication Using a Standard Geoservice
Authors: Trilles Sergio , Díaz Laura , Huerta Joaquín
Published: April 2017

Nowadays, the existence of metadata is one of the most important aspects of effective discovery of geospatial data published in Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDIs). However, due to lack of efficient mechanisms integrated in the data workflow, to assist users in metadata generation, a lot of low quality and outdated metadata are stored in the catalogues. This paper presents a mechanism for generating and publishing metadata through a publication service. This mechanism is provided as a web service implemented with a standard interface called a web processing service, which improves interoperability between other SDI components. This work extends previous research, in which a publication service has been designed in the framework of the European Directive Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe (INSPIRE) as a solution to assist users in automatically publishing geospatial data and metadata in order to improve, among other aspects, SDI maintenance and usability. Also, this work adds more extra features in order to support more geospatial formats, such as sensor data.
A Long-Term Treatment with Arachidonyl-2′-Chloroethylamide Combined with Valproate Increases Neurogenesis in a Mouse Pilocarpine Model of Epilepsy
Authors: Andres-Mach Marta , Zagaja Mirosław , Haratym-Maj Agnieszka , Rola Radosław , Maj Maciej , Haratym Joanna , Dudra-Jastrzębska Monika , Łuszczki Jarogniew
Published: April 2017

Rational polytherapy in the treatment of refractory epilepsy has been the main therapeutic modality for several years. In treatment with two or more antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), it is of particular importance that AEDs be selected based on their high anticonvulsant properties, minimal side effects, and impact on the formation of new neurons. The aim of the study was to conduct an in vivo evaluation of the relationship between treatments with synthetic cannabinoid arachidonyl-2′-chloroethylamide (ACEA) alone or in combination with valproic acid (VPA) and hippocampal neurogenesis in a mouse pilocarpine model of epilepsy. All studies were performed on adolescent male CB57/BL mice with using the following drugs: VPA (10 mg/kg), ACEA (10 mg/kg), phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride (PMSF—a substance protecting ACEA against degradation by fatty acid hydrolase, 30 mg/kg), pilocarpine (PILO, a single dose of 290 mg/kg) and methylscopolamine (30 min before PILO to stop peripheral cholinergic effects of pilocarpine, 1 mg/kg). We evaluated the process of neurogenesis after a 10-day treatment with ACEA and VPA, alone and in combination. We observed a decrease of neurogenesis in the PILO control group as compared to the healthy control mice. Furthermore, ACEA + PMSF alone and in combination with VPA significantly increased neurogenesis compared to the PILO control group. In contrast, VPA 10-day treatment had no impact on the level of neurons in comparison to the PILO control group. The combination of ACEA, PMSF and VPA considerably stimulated the process of creating new cells, particularly neurons, while chronic administration of VPA itself had no influence on neurogenesis in the mouse pilocarpine model of epilepsy. The obtained results enabled an in vivo evaluation of neurogenesis after treatment with antiepileptic drugs in an experimental model of epilepsy.
Collagenous Extracellular Matrix Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering: Lessons from the Common Sea Urchin Tissue
Authors: Goh Kheng , Holmes David
Published: April 2017

Scaffolds for tissue engineering application may be made from a collagenous extracellular matrix (ECM) of connective tissues because the ECM can mimic the functions of the target tissue. The primary sources of collagenous ECM material are calf skin and bone. However, these sources are associated with the risk of having bovine spongiform encephalopathy or transmissible spongiform encephalopathy. Alternative sources for collagenous ECM materials may be derived from livestock, e.g., pigs, and from marine animals, e.g., sea urchins. Collagenous ECM of the sea urchin possesses structural features and mechanical properties that are similar to those of mammalian ones. However, even more intriguing is that some tissues such as the ligamentous catch apparatus can exhibit mutability, namely rapid reversible changes in the tissue mechanical properties. These tissues are known as mutable collagenous tissues (MCTs). The mutability of these tissues has been the subject of on-going investigations, covering the biochemistry, structural biology and mechanical properties of the collagenous components. Recent studies point to a nerve-control system for regulating the ECM macromolecules that are involved in the sliding action of collagen fibrils in the MCT. This review discusses the key attributes of the structure and function of the ECM of the sea urchin ligaments that are related to the fibril-fibril sliding action—the focus is on the respective components within the hierarchical architecture of the tissue. In this context, structure refers to size, shape and separation distance of the ECM components while function is associated with mechanical properties e.g., strength and stiffness. For simplicity, the components that address the different length scale from the largest to the smallest are as follows: collagen fibres, collagen fibrils, interfibrillar matrix and collagen molecules. Application of recent theories of stress transfer and fracture mechanisms in fibre reinforced composites to a wide variety of collagen reinforcing (non-mutable) connective tissue, has allowed us to draw general conclusions concerning the mechanical response of the MCT at specific mechanical states, namely the stiff and complaint states. The intent of this review is to provide the latest insights, as well as identify technical challenges and opportunities, that may be useful for developing methods for effective mechanical support when adapting decellularised connective tissues from the sea urchin for tissue engineering or for the design of a synthetic analogue.
Matrix Metalloproteinase Gene Activation Resulting from Disordred Epigenetic Mechanisms in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Araki Yasuto , Mimura Toshihide
Published: April 2017

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are implicated in the degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM). Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial fibroblasts (SFs) produce matrix-degrading enzymes, including MMPs, which facilitate cartilage destruction in the affected joints in RA. Epigenetic mechanisms contribute to change in the chromatin state, resulting in an alteration of gene transcription. Recently, MMP gene activation has been shown to be caused in RASFs by the dysregulation of epigenetic changes, such as histone modifications, DNA methylation, and microRNA (miRNA) signaling. In this paper, we review the role of MMPs in the pathogenesis of RA as well as the disordered epigenetic mechanisms regulating MMP gene activation in RASFs.
A Multiplexed Microfluidic Platform for Bone Marker Measurement: A Proof-of-Concept
Authors: Khashayar Patricia , Amoabediny Ghassem , Larijani Bagher , Hosseini Morteza , Verplancke Rik , Schaubroeck David , Van Put Steven , Razi Farideh , De Keersmaecker Michel , Adriaens Annemie , Goemaere Stefan , Fiers Tom , Vanfleteren Jan
Published: April 2017

In this work, we report a microfluidic platform that can be easily translated into a biomarker diagnostic. This platform integrates microfluidic technology with electrochemical sensing and embodies a reaction/detection chamber to measure serum levels of different biomarkers. Microfabricated Au electrodes encased in a microfluidic chamber are functionalized to immobilize the antibodies, which can selectively capture the corresponding antigen. An oxidative peak is obtained using the chronoamperometry technique at room temperature. The magnitude of the response current varies linearly with the logarithmic concentration of the relative biomarker and, thus, is used to quantify the concentration of the relative biomarker in serum samples. We demonstrated the implementation, feasibility and specificity of this platform (Osteokit) in assaying serum levels of bone turnover markers (BTMs) using osteocalcin (limits of detection (LOD) = 1.94 ng/mL) and collagen type 1 cross-linked C-telopeptide (CTX) (LOD = 1.39 pg/mL). To our knowledge, this is the first such device fabricated to measure BTMs. Our results also showed that the sensitivity of Osteokit is comparable with the current states of art, electrochemiluminescence (ECLIA).
In-Plane Optical Beam Collimation Using a Three-Dimensional Curved MEMS Mirror
Authors: Sabry Yasser , Khalil Diaa , Saadany Bassam , Bourouina Tarik
Published: April 2017

The collimation of free-space light propagating in-plane with respect to the substrate is an important performance factor in optical microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). This is usually carried out by integrating micro lenses into the system, which increases the cost of fabrication/assembly in addition to limiting the wavelength working range of the system imposed by the dispersion characteristic of the lenses. In this work we demonstrate optical fiber light collimation using a silicon micromachined three-dimensional curved mirror. Sensitivity to micromachining and fiber alignment tolerance is shown to be low enough by restricting the ratio between the mirror focal length and the optical beam Rayleigh range below 5. The three-dimensional curvature of the mirror is designed to be astigmatic and controlled by a process combining deep, reactive ion etching and isotropic etching of silicon. The effect of the micromachining surface roughness on the collimated beam profile is investigated using a Fourier optics approach for different values of root-mean-squared (RMS) roughness and correlation length. The isotropic etching step of the structure is characterized and optimized for the optical-grade surface requirement. The experimental optical results show a beam-waist ratio of about 4.25 and a corresponding 12-dB improvement in diffraction loss, in good agreement with theory. This type of micromirror can be monolithically integrated into lensless microoptoelectromechanical systems (MOEMS), improving their performance in many different applications.
Indole Derivatives Produced by the Metagenome Genes of the Escherichia coli-Harboring Marine Sponge Discodermia calyx
Authors: Liu Feng-Lou , Yang Xiao-Long
Published: April 2017

Three indole derivatives, a novel benzoxazine-indole hybrid (1) and two known indole trimers (2, 3), were isolated from the metagenomic library of the marine sponge Discodermia calyx based on functional screening. Their structures were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis and comparison of their NMR data to that of known compounds. The antibacterial assay indicated that only compound 2 displayed significant antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus, with approximately 20 mm diameter growth inhibition at 10 µg/paper. HPLC analyses revealed that compound 2 is a newly induced metabolite, and the concentration of 3 was obviously enhanced in contrast to negative control, while 1 was not detected, allowing us to predict that the formation of 2 might be induced by exogenous genes derived from the sponge metagenome, whereas compound 1 could be formed through a non-enzymatic process during the isolation procedure.
Xanthones from the Pericarp of Garcinia mangostana
Authors: Yang Renyue , Li Ping , Li Nana , Zhang Qian , Bai Xue , Wang Lishuo , Xiao Yiying , Sun Lirong , Yang Quan , Yan Jian
Published: April 2017

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) is one of the most popular tropical fruits (called the “Queen of Fruits”), and is a rich source of oxygenated and prenylated xanthone derivatives. In the present work, phytochemical investigation has resulted in one new prenylated xanthone and 13 known xanthones isolated from the pericarp of G. mangostana. Their structures were established by spectroscopic data analysis, including X-ray diffraction. The new one was further tested for cytotoxic activity against seven cancer cell lines (CNE-1, CNE-2, A549, H490, PC-3, SGC-7901, U87), displaying the half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values 3.35, 4.01, 4.84, 7.84, 6.21, 8.09, and 6.39 μM, respectively. It is noteworthy that the new compound can promote CNE-2 cells apoptosis in late stage, having a remarkable inhibition effect on the side population growth of CNE-2 at 1.26 μM. The bioactive compound was also detected in extract from fresh mangosteen flesh, which indicated that the popular fruit could have potential cytotoxic activity for cancer cell lines.
RETRACTED: Yu et al. Low Iron Diet Increases Susceptibility to Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Young Rats. Nutrients 2016, 8, 456
Authors:   Nutrients Editorial Office
Published: April 2017

The Nutrients Editorial Office has recently been made aware that the figures in the title paper [1] are taken from the same micrographs as those of other papers by the same authors [...]
A Study of the Differential Effects of Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) on Gene Expression Profiles of Stimulated Thp-1 Macrophages
Authors: Allam-Ndoul Bénédicte , Guénard Frédéric , Barbier Olivier , Vohl Marie-Claude
Published: April 2017

Background: An appropriate intake of omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids (FAs) such as eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acid (EPA/DHA) from marine sources is known to have anti-inflammatory effects. However, molecular mechanisms underlying their beneficial effects on health are not fully understood. The aim of the present study was to characterize gene expression profiles of THP-1 macrophages, incubated in either EPA or DHA and stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a pro-inflammatory agent. Methods: THP-1 macrophages were incubated into 10, 50 and 75 µM of EPA or DHA for 24 h, and 100 nM of LPS was added to the culture media for 18 h. Total mRNA was extracted and gene expression examined by microarray analysis using Illumina Human HT-12 expression beadchips (Illumina). Results: Pathway analysis revealed that EPA and DHA regulate genes involved in cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, immune response and inflammation, oxidative stress and cancer pathways in a differential and dose-dependent manner. Conclusions: EPA and DHA appear to exert differential effects on gene expression in THP-1 macrophages. Specific effects of n-3 FAs on gene expression levels are also dose-dependent.
Development of Defatted Soy Flour-Based Adhesives by Acid Hydrolysis of Carbohydrates
Authors: Zheng Peitao , Li Yuqi , Li Feng , Ou Yangting , Lin Qiaojia , Chen Nairong
Published: April 2017

Soy-based adhesives are attracting increasing attention in recent years because they are a renewable and environmentally friendly raw material. Defatted soy flour (DSF), comprised of 50% protein and 40% carbohydrate, is the most widely used raw material for the preparation of soy-based adhesives that are unfortunately hampered by poor gluability and water resistance. In the present study, we developed a self-crosslinking approach to prepare a formaldehyde-free defatted soy flour-based adhesive (SBA). Carbohydrates in the DSF were hydrolyzed with 0% (controls), 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%, 3.0% and 5.0% hydrochloric acid, and cross-linked with proteins to prepare the SBA. The effect of hydrolyzed carbohydrates on the performance of the SBA was investigated, and hydrolyzed carbohydrates significantly increased the amount of reducing sugars, but decreased insoluble substances. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses revealed an enhanced cross-linking structure with fewer hydrophilic groups in cured SBAs. Maillard reactions between hydrolyzed carbohydrates and proteins resulted in SBAs with better gluability, rheological properties and thermal stability than controls. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that plywood bonded with SBA had a higher wood failure rate than controls. This approach has potential for preparing bio-adhesives with enhanced properties from other natural resources with a similar polysaccharides and protein composition.
Comparison of Multiple Linear Regression, Cubist Regression, and Random Forest Algorithms to Estimate Daily Air Surface Temperature from Dynamic Combinations of MODIS LST Data
Authors: Noi Phan , Degener Jan , Kappas Martin
Published: April 2017

Recently, several methods have been introduced and applied to estimate daily air surface temperature (Ta) using MODIS land surface temperature data (MODIS LST). Among these methods, the most common used method is statistical modeling, and the most applied algorithms are linear/multiple linear regression models (LM). There are only a handful of studies using machine learning algorithm models such as random forest (RF) or cubist regression (CB). In particular, there is no study comparing different combinations of four MODIS LST datasets with or without auxiliary data using different algorithms such as multiple linear regression, random forest, and cubist regression for daily Ta-max, Ta-min, and Ta-mean estimation. Our study examines the mentioned combinations of four MODIS-LST datasets and shows that different combinations and differently applied algorithms produce various Ta estimation accuracies. Additional analysis of daily data from three climate stations in the mountain area of North West of Vietnam for the period of five years (2009 to 2013) with four MODIS LST datasets (AQUA daytime, AQUA nighttime, TERRA daytime, and TERRA nighttime) and two additional auxiliary datasets (elevation and Julian day) shows that CB and LM should be applied if MODIS LST data is used solely. If MODIS LST is used together with auxiliary data, especially in mountainous areas, CB or RF is highly recommended. This study proved that the very high accuracy of Ta estimation (R2 > 0.93/0.80/0.89 and RMSE ~1.5/2.0/1.6 °C of Ta-max, Ta-min, and Ta-mean, respectively) could be achieved with a simple combination of four LST data, elevation, and Julian day data using a suitable algorithm.
Evaluation of MODIS Albedo Product over Ice Caps in Iceland and Impact of Volcanic Eruptions on Their Albedo
Authors: Gascoin Simon , Guðmundsson Sverrir , Aðalgeirsdóttir Guðfinna , Pálsson Finnur , Schmidt Louise , Berthier Etienne , Björnsson Helgi
Published: April 2017

Albedo is a key variable in the response of glaciers to climate. In Iceland, large albedo variations of the ice caps may be caused by the deposition of volcanic ash (tephra). Sparse in situ measurements are insufficient to characterize the spatial variation of albedo over the ice caps due to their large size. Here we evaluated the latest MCD43 MODIS albedo product (collection 6) to monitor albedo changes over the Icelandic ice caps using albedo measurements from ten automatic weather stations on Vatnajökull and Langjökull. Furthermore, we examined the influence of the albedo variability within MODIS pixels by comparing the results with a collection of Landsat scenes. The results indicate a good ability of the MODIS product to characterize the seasonal and interannual albedo changes with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.47 to 0.90 (median 0.84) and small biases ranging from −0.07 to 0.09. The root-mean square errors (RMSE) ranging from 0.08 to 0.21, are larger than that from previous studies, but we did not discard the retrievals flagged as bad quality to maximize the amount of observations given the frequent cloud obstruction in Iceland. We found a positive but non-significant relationship between the RMSE and the subpixel variability as indicated by the standard deviation of the Landsat albedo within a MODIS pixel (R = 0.48). The summer albedo maps and time series computed from the MODIS product show that the albedo decreased significantly after the 2010 Eyjafjallajökull and 2011 Grímsvötn eruptions on all the main ice caps except the northernmost Drangajökull. A strong reduction of the summer albedo by up to 0.6 is observed over large regions of the accumulation areas. These data can be assimilated in an energy and mass balance model to better understand the relative influence of the volcanic and climate forcing to the ongoing mass losses of Icelandic ice caps.
Validation of VIIRS AOD through a Comparison with a Sun Photometer and MODIS AODs over Wuhan
Authors: Wang Wei , Mao Feiyue , Pan Zengxin , Du Lin , Gong Wei
Published: April 2017

Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) is a next-generation polar-orbiting operational environmental sensor with a capability for global aerosol observations. A comprehensive validation of VIIRS products is significant for improving product quality, assessing environment quality for human life, and studying regional climate change. In this study, three-year (from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2016) records of VIIRS Intermediate Product (IP) data and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) retrievals on aerosol optical depth (AOD) at 550 nm were evaluated by comparing them to ground sun photometer measurements over Wuhan. Results indicated that VIIRS IP retrievals were underestimated by 5% for the city. A comparison of VIIRS IP retrievals and ground sun photometer measurements showed a lower R2 of 0.55 (0.79 for Terra-MODIS and 0.76 for Aqua-MODIS), with only 52% of retrievals falling within the expected error range established by MODIS over land (i.e., ±(0.05 + 0.15AOD)). Bias analyses with different Ångström exponents (AE) demonstrated that land aerosol model selection of the VIIRS retrieval over Wuhan was appropriate. However, the larger standard deviations (i.e., uncertainty) of VIIRS AODs than MODIS AODs could be attributed to the less robust retrieval algorithm. Monthly variations displayed largely underestimated AODs of VIIRS in winter, which could be caused by a large positive bias in surface reflectance estimation due to the sparse vegetation and greater surface brightness of Wuhan in this season. The spatial distribution of VIIRS and MODIS AOD observations revealed that the VIIRS IP AODs over high-pollution areas (AOD > 0.8) with sparse vegetation were underestimated by more than 20% in Wuhan, and 40% in several regions. Analysis of several clear rural areas (AOD < 0.2) with native vegetation indicated an overestimation of about 20% in the northeastern region of the city. These findings showed that the VIIRS IP AOD at 550 nm can provide a solid dataset with a high resolution (750 m) for quantitative scientific investigations and environmental monitoring over Wuhan. However, the performance of dark target algorithms in VIIRS was associated with aerosol types and ground vegetation conditions.
Effects of an Energy Tax (Carbon Tax) on Energy Saving and Emission Reduction in Guangdong Province-Based on a CGE Model
Authors: Chen Wei , Zhou Jin-Feng , Li Shi-Yu , Li Yao-Chu
Published: April 2017

Guangdong, as China’s most affluent province, which is representative in terms of its industrial and energy consumption structure, will deal with an important issue about how to change its environmental management policies from command-and-control strategies to incentive-based ones and how to exert its effects to the greatest extent possible in the new situation of the impending imposition of an environmental tax. By establishing an energy Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model for Guangdong Province, and setting up various taxation and tax refund scenarios, this research simulates the energy saving and emission reduction effects imposed by the imposition of an energy tax or carbon tax at various tax rates in Guangdong Province, and analyzes the mitigation effects upon an economic system by various tax refund plans. The research proves that when the energy tax rate is at 100–200 yuan/tce (ton coal equivalent) or carbon tax at 50–100 yuan/t CO2, the energy consumption of Guangdong Province is reduced by 5.8–11.21%, and carbon emission is reduced by 5.94–11.61%. The energy saving and emission reduction effects of the carbon tax surpasses that of the energy tax under the equivalent tax revenue with even fewer significant negative impacts upon the economy, contributing to the capital transfer towards non-energy intensive industries; thus, appropriate and accurate tax refund plans can alleviate the negative impacts of taxation upon the economy in Guangdong Province.
Effects of Electrical Stimulation on the Degradation of Azo Dye in Three-Dimensional Biofilm Electrode Reactors
Authors: Cao Xian , Li Xiaoqi , Wang Hui , Zhang Jingran , Fang Zhou , Li Xianning
Published: April 2017

Three-dimensional biofilm electrode reactors (3D-BERs) were constructed to degrade the azo dye Reactive Brilliant Red (RBR) X-3B. The 3D-BERs with different influent concentrations and external voltages were individually studied to investigate their influence on the removal of X-3B. Experimental results showed that 3D-BERs have good X-3B removal efficiency; even when the influent concentration was 800 mg/L, removal efficiency of 73.4% was still achieved. In addition, the X-3B removal efficiency stabilized shortly after the influent concentration increased. In 3D-BERs, the average X-3B removal efficiency increased from 52.8% to 85.4% when the external voltage rose from 0 to 2 V. We further identified the intermediate products via UV-Vis and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses, and discussed the potential mechanism of degradation. After the conjugate structure of X-3B was destroyed, all of the substances generated mainly consisted of lower-molecular-weight organics.
Bases psycholinguistiques de l'assimilation des messages étrangers à la culture du récepteur : quelques problèmes préalables [Psychololinguistic bases of the assimilation of messages alien from the receiver's culture : some preliminary problems]
Authors: Wald Paul
Published: April 2017

The assimilation of messages foreign to the receiver's culture is determined by cognitive factors especially in connection with the reception of the new element. The instrumental usefulness of a message is jeopardized when the message is integrated into an inadequate system of references. In order to develop a strategy for transmission, it then becomes necessary to discover the conceptualization cues of the concerned topics in the receiver's own culture. The report deals with the problems involved in discovering these indices. The approach which employs purely linguistic and notably lexical analysis of the relevant fields of knowledge is shown to be inadequate since numerous formal analyses can account for a single observation yet fail to describe the mechanisms which produce this result. From another point of view it is shown that one can achieve adequate behavioural results in a given situation by using incomplete models involving the situation. To consider the receiver's culture as an independent variable, as is sometimes the case in certain cross-cultural studies, ultimately leads one to exclude analyses of the specific effect of the receiver's culture upon the verbal behaviour which is envisaged. This can lead to assumptions about the functional equivalence between cultural elements coming from different origins. Only a monographic approach to a culture can allow one to situate the problem in such a way as to enable one to undertake both observations concerning the psychological validity of the formal analysis of the results and the interpretation of constants as a means of checking one's hypotheses. In conclusion, the author sketches a strategy for research into the analysis of his corpus and definitions.
L'application des concepts de la linguistique à l'amélioration des techniques d'analyse de contenu [The application of the concepts of linguistics for the improvement of the techniques of content analysis]
Authors: Pêcheux Michel
Published: April 2017

The paper deals first with the epistemological status of content analysis going on later to outline a concept of discourse which would allow one to dispel the ambiguity surrounding this status.

Finally, the author sketches the mechanism of automatic discourse analysis in accordance with these premises. Inheriting from its linguistic and literary origins, content analysis feels the need to tackle the problem of transmitting sense effects which linguistics has been unable to deal with since its constitution as an independent science. Reactions to this state of affairs range, on the one hand, from systematic ignorance displayed by linguistics in its use of classes of equivalence worked out from statistical counts and based upon arbitrary a priori classifications and, on the other, to the reintroduction of linguistic concepts with a literary bias. The author demonstrates that the two approaches have a common epistemological basis : An explicit or implicit assumption of homogoneity, based in this instance upon the unity of the human mind and upon the existence of a form of unity implying the homogeneity of the referent, i.e. society. However, as it is difficult to uphold an assumption of this kind in view of the heterogeneous character of reality, the author suggests that one introduces into content analysis a concept of discourse which can be defined as a sequence of variable dimension referred to the conditions which determined its production. Essentially, these conditions concern the properties of discourse relative to the place and position of both speaker and receiver. By place is meant those situations which are attributable to speakers using the prevailing mode of production in which they are capable of taking positions conjecturally.

A theory of discourse of this kind eventually raises the problem of the syntactical relationship between what is as yet unasserted (but capable of being asserted) and the mechanisms of assertation. It also elaborates various laws enabling one to locate utterances or minimal parts. A technique for automatic analysis based on these principles would entail three phases : One would need to establish firstly a corpus of reference discourses of a similar type on the basis of a scientific examination of the circumstances of production : secondly one would need to make allowance for the influence of linguistics by constructing a «reconnaissance grammar-system» enabling one ultimately, by using transformational rules, to plot a graph of minimal utterances interrelated in such a way as to allow one to reconstruct the original discourse ; and lastly, one would need to evolve a method of systematic comparison which would apportion the sub-sequences in accordance with classes of equivalence, the definitions of which will emerge in the course of analysis.
Aspects religieux et culturels des mariages entre juifs et chrétiens en France [Religious and cultural aspects of jews-gentiles marriages in France]
Authors: Bensimon Doris , Lautman Françoise
Published: April 2017

The article presents the first results of a social investigation of 145 Jew-Gentile mixed couples living in Paris. The authors describe the religious and cultural orientations of their sample, the direct cause of religious and cultural problems between the spouses. They also indicate the ties between the couple and the family of origin. Problems concerning the educa¬ tion of the children are examined in this perspective.

The authors hypothesize different meanings of mixed marriages depending upon whether the man or the woman is Jewish and upon whether one or the other is converted.
Un cas particulier de mariages mixtes : les mariages franco-allemands [A particular case of mixed marriages : French-German marriages]
Authors: Guerend Jean-pierre
Published: April 2017

It is striking that the problem of mixed marriages in Europe has been virtually neglected, particularly since, for example, French-German marriages, because of the bitter historical past, are of special significance. Traditionally, mixed marriages are treated as one aspect of interracial marriage resulting from immigration movements. However, French-German couples do not fall into this pattern. For them, marriage is followed by immigration (usually of the woman), but not the contrary.

Some results of a survey made in France and Germany involving 130 French-German couples show that attitudes and opinions are very similar on both sides of the Rhine. These couples are individual examples of a distinct way of life which some people classify as European.
MicroRNA-219-5p Represses the Proliferation, Migration, and Invasion of Gastric Cancer Cells by Targeting the LRH-1/Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Chunsheng , Dong Jingrong , Han Zhenqi , Zhang Kai
Published: April 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are reportedly involved in gastric cancer development and progression. In particular, miR-219-5p has been reported to be a tumor-associated miRNA in human cancer. However, the role of miR-219-5p in gastric cancer remains unclear. In this study, we investigated for
the first time the potential role and underlying mechanism of miR-219-5p in the proliferation, migration, and invasion of human gastric cancer cells. miR-219-5p was found to be markedly decreased in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines compared with adjacent tissues and normal gastric epithelial
cells. miR-219-5p mimics or anti-miR-219-5p was transfected into gastric cancer cell lines to overexpress or suppress miR-219-5p expression, respectively. Results showed that miR-219-5p overexpression significantly decreased the proliferation, migration, and invasion of gastric cancer cells.
Conversely, miR-219-5p suppression demonstrated a completely opposite effect. Bioinformatics and luciferase reporter assays indicated that miR-219-5p targeted the 3′-untranslated region of the liver receptor homolog-1 (LRH-1), a well-characterized oncogene. Furthermore, miR-219-5p inhibited
the mRNA and protein levels of LRH-1. LRH-1 mRNA expression was inversely correlated with miR-219-5p expression in gastric cancer tissues. miR-219-5p overexpression significantly decreased the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in gastric cancer cells. Additionally, LRH-1 restoration can
markedly reverse miR-219-5p-mediated tumor suppressive effects. Our study suggests that miR-219-5p regulated the proliferation, migration, and invasion of human gastric cancer cells by suppressing LRH-1. miR-219-5p may be a potential target for gastric cancer therapy.
Health-Related Attitudes and Behaviors Among Olympic Host City Residents From Atlanta, Sydney, Athens, and Beijing Olympic Games: Exploring Potential Legacies
Authors: Kaplanidou Kyriaki
Published: April 2017

The potential power of the Olympic Games as an intervention that influences changes in health, sport participation, and exercise has been discussed in the literature as a legacy outcome. However, a temporal evaluation of health-related attitudes and behaviors has not been presented
in the literature. The purpose of this study was to explore residents' health attitudes and behaviors, and further examine those constructs temporally (i.e., since the time from the conclusion of an Olympic Games). Data were collected in 2010 from convenience samples of Olympic Games host
city residents in: Atlanta, Sydney, Athens, and Beijing. ANCOVA was used to analyze data among residents from each host city. Beijing residents held more positive attitudes and behaviors toward health-related issues, while the covariates of age and importance of physical spaces for physical
activity and recreation significantly influenced health-related attitudes and behaviors across all cities at the time of measurement, which varied from 2 to 14 years for each sample since the conclusion of the Games. Implications for health legacy planning are provided.
Leveraging Sport Events to Maximize Community Benefits in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Schulenkorf Nico , Schlenker Katie
Published: April 2017

For many years, special events have played an important role as strategic elements within community development. However, to date little work has been conducted on how to maximize the social potential of special events in low- and middle-income countries. In addressing this issue, we
reflect on event management processes and leverage mechanisms that have underpinned a community sport event in the Pacific Island nation of Sāmoa, and identify strategies for maximizing beneficial event outcomes. We present findings related to previously identified leverage areas, including
sociocultural and participatory leverage, and also suggest new areas that seem particularly relevant in the context of community development, including educational, health-related, and reputational leverage. Finally, key challenges and opportunities for event managers and local communities
are discussed, implications for event leverage are provided, and areas for future research are outlined.
Energy-level alignment at interfaces between manganese phthalocyanine and C60
Authors: Waas Daniel , Rückerl Florian , Knupfer Martin , Büchner Bernd
Published: April 2017

We have used photoelectron spectroscopy to determine the energy-level alignment at organic heterojunctions made of manganese phthalocyanine (MnPc) and the fullerene C60. We show that this energy-level alignment depends upon the preparation sequence, which is explained by different molecular orientations. Moreover, our results demonstrate that MnPc/C60 interfaces are hardly suited for application in organic photovoltaic devices, since the energy difference of the two lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals (LUMOs) is rather small.
A Study of the Kepler K2 Variable EPIC 211957146 Exhibiting a Variable O’ Connell Effect
Authors: Sriram K. , Malu S. , Choi C. S. , Rao P. Vivekananda
Published: April 2017

We present the multi-band photometric and spectroscopic study of an over-contact binary system, EPIC 211957146. The light curves exhibit a variable O’ Connell effect, confirmed from our observational data and the Kepler K2 data. The best photometric solution incorporating a dark spot over the primary component unveils that the system has a low-mass ratio (q ∼ 0.17) and a high inclination (i ∼ 85°). To confirm the solution and constrain the uncertainty, Monte-Carlo simulations are performed and the results are reported. Based on the O–C diagram analysis, we see that the variable shows a period increase at the rate of dP/dt ∼ 1.06 × 10−6 days yr−1, which is higher than the theoretically predicted value. Presence of a third body having a period of ∼16.23 years is evident from the O–C diagram. No filled-in effect is observed in the Hα line, while the effect is vividly present in the Na line. From the Kepler K2 data, we found that the primary and secondary minima exhibit an anti-correlated O–C variation followed by an erratic behavior. This is possibly caused by the longitudinal motion of the spot, and hence, we set a lower limit of ∼40 days for the spot modulation. We also observe a possibly associated photometric difference in the primary depth by comparing our light curves with Kepler K2 normalized light curves. This system has a low-mass ratio and a high fill-out factor, and, theoretically, such a physical configuration would lead to a merger.