bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality, Antioxidative Ability, and Cell Proliferation‐Enhancing Activity of Fermented Black Soybean Broths with Various Supplemental Culture Medium
Authors: Lin Chih‐Chien , Wu Pey‐Shiuan , Woei‐Ming Liang David , Kwan Chang‐Chin , Chen Yi‐Shyan
Published: November 2011

Abstract:  The fermented soybean‐based foods have played an important role in traditional diets around the world for many centuries, and Bacillus subtilis is typically used in the fermentation of soybean‐based foods. The fermentation process may improve not only the flavor but also the nutritional value of food, and substances produced in this fermented broth were affected by many factors including culture medium and the selected soybeans. In this study, we use 3 potential culture mediums in the fermentation of black soybean and the fermented black soybean broths were used for the examination of amino acid composition, total phenolics content, flavonoids and anthocyanins contents, the antioxidant properties, and cytotoxicity. Our results indicated that the fermented black soybean broth, fermentation III, have the most abundant essential amino acid (79.77 mg/g), phenolics (19.33 mg/g), flavonoids (46.01 mg/g), and anthocyanins (1.06 mg/g). Besides, all of the fermented black soybean broths exhibited the significant antioxidative abilities with 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging effect, reducing power and ferrous ion chelating effect. In addition, the fermented black soybean broths demonstrated the cell proliferation‐enhancing activity in Detroit 551 cells. The cells were augmented up to the maximum value of 183.6% (compared with control) at 10 mg/mL of the fermentation I. Therefore, the different supplemental culture medium fermented black soybean broths may be used as a functional ingredient in the products of nutritional drinks and health foods.

Practical Application:  The present study illustrated the potential of various supplemental culture medium fermented black soybean broths in the application of functional ingredient for nutritional drinks and health foods.
Mean Exposure Fractions of Human Body Solar UV Exposure Patterns for Application in Different Ambient Climates
Authors: Downs Nathan , Parisi Alfio
Published: November 2011

In this research, the erythemally effective UV measured using miniaturized polysulphone dosimeters to over 1250 individual body sites and collected over a 4‐year period is presented relative to the total exposed skin surface area (SSA) of a life‐size manikin model. A new term is also introduced, the mean exposure fraction (MEF). The MEF is used to weight modeled or measured horizontal plane UV exposures to the total unprotected SSA of an individual and is defined as the ratio of exposure per unit area received by the unprotected skin surfaces of the body relative to the exposure received on a horizontal plane. The MEF has been calculated for a range of solar zenith angles (SZA) to provide a sunburning energy data set weighted to the actual SSA of a typically clothed individual. For this research, the MEF was determined as 0.15, 0.26 and 0.41 in the SZA ranges 0°–30°, 30°–50° and 50°–80° providing information that can be used in a variety of different ambient, latitudinal and seasonal climates where total human body UV exposure information is not available.
Genotyping success of historical Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx L.) samples
Authors: POLANC PRIMOŽ , SINDIČIĆ MAGDA , JELENČIČ MAJA , GOMERČIĆ TOMISLAV , KOS IVAN , HUBER ĐURO
Published: November 2011

Historical samples, like tanned hides and trophy skulls, can be extremely important for genetic studies of endangered or elusive species. Selection of a sampling protocol that is likely to provide sufficient amount and quality of DNA with a minimum damage to the original specimen is often critical for a success of the study. We investigated microsatellite genotyping success of DNA isolated from three different types of Eurasian lynx historical samples. We analysed a total of 20 microsatellite loci in 106 historical samples from the endangered Dinaric lynx population, established from re‐introduction of three pairs of lynx in 1973 from Slovakian Carpathians. Of the three tested sample types, turbinal bone and septum from the nasal cavity of the trophy skulls had the lowest percentage of samples successfully genotyped for all 20 microsatellite loci. Footpad samples, collected using a cork drill, exhibited better results in polymerase chain reaction amplification and genotyping than samples of footpad epidermis cut with a scalpel. We report simple and efficient sampling protocols, which could be widely applied for future studies utilizing historical samples.
Objectives of teaching direct ophthalmoscopy to medical students
Authors: Benbassat Jochanan , Polak Bettine C. P. , Javitt Jonathan C.
Published: November 2011

Purpose:  To propose the objectives of undergraduate training in direct ophthalmoscopy (DO).

Method:  Narrative review of the literature on (i) opinions about the expected proficiency from students in DO, and (ii) estimates of its diagnostic value.

Results:  (i) Authorities disagree on the proficiency in DO that they expect from students. Textbooks of physical diagnosis differ in their coverage of DO. Surveys have indicated that US physicians expect students to be able to detect optic nerve head abnormalities. The Association of American Medical Colleges expects students to perform ophthalmoscopic examination and describe observations. The International Council of Ophthalmology expects students to recognize also diabetic and hypertensive retinopathies. The Association of University Professors in Ophthalmology requires that students recognize papilloedema, cholesterol emboli, glaucomatous cupping and macular degeneration. (ii) There is evidence that DO, even by ophthalmologists, is inadequate for screening for glaucoma, diabetic and hypertensive retinopathies. Two studies have suggested a limited value of DO in detecting clinical emergencies.

Conclusions:  The evidence that DO, even by ophthalmologists, is sub‐optimal in detecting common abnormalities challenges existing the notions of training medical students. On pending the results of additional studies of the value of DO in detecting emergencies, we suggest that undergraduate teaching of DO should impart the following: (i) an ability to identify the red fundus reflex and optic disc; (ii) an ability to recognize signs of clinical emergencies in patients, mannequins or fundus photographs; and (iii) knowledge about, but not an ability to detect, other retinopathies.
Phylogeny and taxonomy of the Pyrenaria complex (Theaceae) based on nuclear ribosomal ITS sequences
Authors: Li Rong , Yang Jun‐Bo , Yang Shi‐Xiong , Li De‐Zhu
Published: November 2011

The generic limits in the Pyrenaria complex are discussed based on morphological and molecular evidence. The phylogeny of the Pyrenaria complex was reconstructed using parsimony and Bayesian analyses of sequence data from the nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region. The Pyrenaria complex is shown to be monophyletic and is sister to the Camellia–Polyspora clade. None of the previously recognized genera (including Pyrenaria, Tutcheria, Parapyrenaria and Sinopyrenaria) is monophyletic, and the species of these genera are scattered and nested within the Pyrenaria complex, suggesting that the four genera should be combined as Pyrenaria sensu lato. This study indicates a close relationship among the genera within the Pyrenaria complex, Camellia and Polyspora, and reveals that Camellia has a closer relationship with Polyspora than with the Pyrenaria complex.
Cuff‐leak test for predicting postextubation airway complications: a systematic review
Authors: Zhou Ting , Zhang Hong‐Ping , Chen Wei‐Wei , Xiong Ze‐Yu , Fan Tao , Fu Juan‐Juan , Wang Lei , Wang Gang
Published: November 2011

Background and objective: Postextubation problems such as laryngeal edema and reintubation are common complications after tracheal intubation. The cuff‐leak test has been proposed as a method of identifying those patients at high risk in clinical practice, but its efficacy remains controversial.

Methods: We searched electronic databases including PubMed, the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, Web of Science, Ovid, and Embase. Studies were included if they were concerned with accuracy of the cuff‐leak test and the effect of cuff‐leak test screening on patient‐important outcomes. Two reviewers independently assessed study quality with the QUADAS tool and extracted data. We compiled diagnostic two by two tables and pooled estimates of sensitivity and specificity, but refrained from pooling when there was considerable clinical or statistical heterogeneity.

Results: Sixteen diagnostic tests with 3172 participants and six clinical trials with 2500 patients were identified. The median diagnostic odds ratios for predicting postextubation laryngeal edema and reintubation were 18.16 (range, 3.54 to 356.00) and 10.80 (2.74 to 1665.00), respectively. The accuracy of the cuff‐leak test varied with different methods, duration of intubation, and study population. An indirect comparison found significant differences in post‐extubation incidence of laryngeal edema (OR = 2.09, 95% CI, 1.28 to 2.89) but not reintubation (OR = 0.94, 95% CI, 0.32 to 1.57) if using cuff‐leak test screening.

Conclusions: Our results suggest the cuff‐leak test accurately predicts which adult patients are at high risk of postextubation airway complications, but randomized controlled trials are needed to further assess this diagnostic strategy.
Incidence of Postoperative Seizures with and without Levetiracetam Pretreatment in Dogs Undergoing Portosystemic Shunt Attenuation
Authors: Fryer K.J. , Levine J.M. , Peycke L.E. , Thompson J.A. , Cohen N.D.
Published: November 2011

Background

In dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts (CPS), postligation seizures can be challenging to treat and often result in mortality. Levetiracetam (LEV) is a novel anticonvulsive drug that is commonly used in humans with seizure disorders who have hepatic comorbidity.

Objectives

To compare the incidence of postoperative seizures in dogs that underwent surgical attenuation of an extrahepaticCPSand preoperatively received eitherLEVor no anticonvulsant medication.

Animals

A total of 126 dogs undergoing attenuation of an extrahepaticCPSthat preoperatively received eitherLEVor no anticonvulsant medication.

Methods

Retrospective case review. Information obtained included signalment, duration of clinical signs, presence of neurologic abnormalities before surgery, preoperative bile acid and ammonia concentrations, diagnostic imaging modality, duration of hospitalization, postoperative complications including seizures, and discharge status. Bayesian Poisson regression was used to estimate the risk of seizures inLEV‐treated dogs when compared with untreated dogs.

Results

Levetiracetam was administered to 33% (42/126) of dogs. No dog treated withLEVexperienced postoperative seizures, whereas 5% (4/84) of dogs not treated withLEVexperienced postoperative seizures. The relative risk of seizures was significantly (P < .0002) < 1 for theLEV‐treated dogs, indicatingLEVprotection against development of postoperative seizures. No dog that experienced postoperative seizures survived to discharge from the hospital.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Levetiracetam administered at 20 mg/kgPOq8h for a minimum of 24 hours before surgery significantly decreased the risk of postoperative seizures and death in dogs undergoing surgical attenuation of extrahepaticCPSwith ameroid ring constrictors.
Dose Reduction of Meloxicam in Dogs with Osteoarthritis‐Associated Pain and Impaired Mobility
Authors: Wernham B.G.J. , Trumpatori B. , Hash J. , Lipsett J. , Davidson G. , Wackerow P. , Thomson A. , Lascelles B.D.X.
Published: November 2011

Background

Progressive nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) dose reduction appears logical; however, there is no evidence‐based medicine indicating that efficacy is maintained as dose is reduced.

Objective

To determine if NSAID dose can be reduced and pain relief and mobility can be maintained in dogs with osteoarthritis (OA).

Animals

Client‐owned dogs (n = 59) with OA‐associated impaired mobility and pain.

Methods

Prospective, randomized, blinded study. After 14 days wash‐out, dogs were randomized to reducing dose (RDG) (n = 30) or maintenance dose (MDG) (n = 29). MDG received standard dose meloxicam. RDG received a reducing dose from D28 onward, reducing to 0% of maintenance for the final 2 weeks. Assessments were at D14, 28, 42, 56, 70, 84, 98 and 112 using subjective owner assessments, accelerometry (AM), and standing percent body weight distribution (%BW). A Kaplan–Meier survival curve described how dogs dropped out because of insufficient pain control. A Log‐rank test compared the groups.

Results

More dogs in RDG (13) dropped out because of owner‐evaluated insufficient pain control compared with MDG (5) (P = .029; odds ratio: 3.67; median dropout time: 84 days in each group). For the dogs that did not drop out (n = 41), there were no significant differences between groups in owner assessments (P > .2 for each), %BW placed on the index limb (P = .750), or accelerometer‐measured activity (P = .14).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Dose reduction is a less effective means of pain control compared with maintained dosing. However, NSAID dose reduction with maintained efficacy is possible, but success appears to be individual dog dependent.
Normal Dogs Treated with Famotidine for 14 days Have Only Transient Increases in Serum Gastrin Concentrations
Authors: Mordecai A. , Sellon R.K. , Mealey K.L.
Published: November 2011

Background

In people, serum gastrin concentrations increase in response to administration ofH2receptor antagonists, but the effect of famotidine administration on serum gastrin concentrations has not been evaluated in dogs.

Objectives

To determine if serum gastrin concentrations increase in response to 14 days of famotidine treatment and the time needed to return to baseline after discontinuation of famotidine; define stability of gastrin in samples held at room temperature.

Animals

Eleven healthy dogs were included in partA(famotidine treatment) and 7 healthy dogs in PartB(serum gastrin stability). In partA, famotidine (0.5 mg/kgPOq12h) was administered for 14 days. Fasting blood samples were collected on days 0, 3, 7, 11, 14, 16, 18, 20, and 22. In partB, blood was collected after a 12‐hour fast. Gastrin concentrations in serum samples held at room temperature for ≤30 minutes after sampling were compared to concentrations in samples held at room temperature for 150 minutes after sampling.

Results

Serum gastrin concentrations increased by day 3 of famotidine administration and returned to baseline concentrations in all dogs by day 14 despite continued famotidine administration. Serum gastrin concentrations were lower (20% mean decrease;P = .0005) in samples held at room temperature for 150 minutes.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

After 14 days of famotidine administration, clinically healthy dogs have normal serum gastrin concentrations. In a dog with clinical features consistent with gastrinoma, chronic famotidine administration is unlikely to contribute to increases in serum gastrin concentrations.
The Colônia structure, São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: RICCOMINI Claudio , CRÓSTA Alvaro P. , PRADO Renato L. , LEDRU Marie‐Pierre , TURCQ Bruno J. , SANT’ANNA Lucy G. , FERRARI José A. , REIMOLD W. Uwe
Published: November 2011

Abstract– The near‐circular Colônia structure, located in the southern suburbs of the mega‐city of São Paulo, Brazil, has attracted the attention of geoscientists for several decades due to its anomalous character and the complete absence of any plausible endogenous geologic explanation for its formation. Origin by impact cratering has been suggested repeatedly since the 1960s, but no direct evidence for this has been presented to date. New seismic data have been recently acquired at Colônia, providing new insights into the characteristics and possible layering of infill of the structure, as well as into the depth to the underlying basement. We review the current knowledge about the Colônia structure, present the new seismic data, and discuss the existing—as yet still indirect—evidence for a possible origin by an impact. The new data suggest the existence of a sedimentary fill of approximately 275 m thickness and also the presence of two intermediate zones between sediment and basement: an upper zone that is approximately 65 m thick and can be interpreted as a possible crater‐fill breccia, whereas the other zone possibly represents fractured/brecciated basement, with a thickness of approximately 50 m. Although this depth to basement seems to be inconsistent with the expected geometry of a simple, bowl‐shape impact structure of such diameter, there are a number of still unconstrained parameters that could explain this, such as projectile nature, size and velocity, impact angle, and particularly the current erosion depth.
Whole‐rock 26Al‐26Mg systematics of amoeboid olivine aggregates from the oxidized CV3 carbonaceous chondrite Allende
Authors: OLSEN M. B. , KROT A. N. , LARSEN K. , PATON C. , WIELANDT D. , SCHILLER M. , BIZZARRO M.
Published: November 2011

Abstract– We report on mineralogy, petrography, and whole‐rock 26Al‐26Mg systematics of eight amoeboid olivine aggregates (AOAs) from the oxidized CV chondrite Allende. The AOAs consist of forsteritic olivine, opaque nodules, and variable amounts of Ca,Al‐rich inclusions (CAIs) of different types, and show evidence for alteration to varying degrees. Melilite and anorthite are replaced by nepheline, sodalite, and grossular; spinel is enriched in FeO; opaque nodules are replaced by Fe,Ni‐sulfides, ferroan olivine and Ca,Fe‐rich pyroxenes; forsteritic olivine is enriched in FeO and often overgrown by ferroan olivine. The AOAs are surrounded by fine‐grained, matrix‐like rims composed mainly of ferroan olivine and by a discontinuous layer of Ca,Fe‐rich silicates. These observations indicate that AOAs experienced in situ elemental open‐system iron‐alkali‐halogen metasomatic alteration during which Fe, Na, Cl, and Si were introduced, whereas Ca was removed from AOAs and used to form the Ca,Fe‐rich silicate rims around AOAs. The whole‐rock 26Al‐26Mg systematics of the Allende AOAs plot above the isochron of the whole‐rock Allende CAIs with a slope of (5.23 ± 0.13) × 10−5 reported by Jacobsen et al. (2008). In contrast, whole‐rock 26Al‐26Mg isotope systematics of CAIs and AOAs from the reduced CV chondrite Efremovka define a single isochron with a slope of (5.25± 0.01) × 10−5 (Larsen et al. 2011). We infer that the excesses in 26Mg* present in Allende AOAs are due to their late‐stage open‐system metasomatic alteration. Thus, the 26Al‐26Mg isotope systematics of Allende CAIs and AOAs are disturbed by parent body alteration processes, and may not be suitable for high‐precision chronology of the early solar system events and processes.
A composite Fe,Ni‐FeS and enstatite‐forsterite‐diopside‐glass vitrophyre clast in the Larkman Nunatak 04316 aubrite: Origin by pyroclastic volcanism
Authors: KEIL Klaus , McCOY Timothy J. , WILSON Lionel , BARRAT Jean‐Alix , RUMBLE Doug , MEIER Matthias M. M. , WIELER Rainer , HUSS Gary R.
Published: November 2011

Abstract– We studied the mineralogy, petrology, and bulk, trace element, oxygen, and noble gas isotopic compositions of a composite clast approximately 20 mm in diameter discovered in the Larkman Nunatak (LAR) 04316 aubrite regolith breccia. The clast consists of two lithologies: One is a quench‐textured intergrowth of troilite with spottily zoned metallic Fe,Ni which forms a dendritic or cellular structure. The approximately 30 μm spacings between the Fe,Ni arms yield an estimated cooling rate of this lithology of approximately 25–30 °C s−1. The other is a quench‐textured enstatite‐forsterite‐diopside‐glass vitrophyre lithology. The composition of the clast suggests that it formed at an exceptionally high degree of partial melting, perhaps approaching complete melting, and that the melts from which the composite clast crystallized were quenched from a temperature of approximately 1380–1400 °C at a rate of approximately 25–30 °C s−1. The association of the two lithologies in a composite clast allows, for the first time, an estimation of the cooling rate of a silicate vitrophyre in an aubrite of approximately 25–30 °C s−1. While we cannot completely rule out an impact origin of the clast, we present what we consider is very strong evidence that this composite clast is one of the elusive pyroclasts produced during pyroclastic volcanism on the aubrite parent body (Wilson and Keil 1991). We further suggest that this clast was not ejected into space but retained on the aubrite parent body by virtue of the relatively large size of the clast of approximately 20 mm. Our modeling, taking into account the size of the clast, suggests that the aubrite parent body must have been between approximately 40 and 100 km in diameter, and that the melt from which the clast crystallized must have contained an estimated maximum range of allowed volatile mass fractions between approximately 500 and approximately 4500 ppm.
QUE 94204: A primitive enstatite achondrite produced by the partial melting of an E chondrite‐like protolith
Authors: IZAWA Matthew R. M. , FLEMMING Roberta L. , BANERJEE Neil R. , MATVEEV Sergei
Published: November 2011

Abstract–Queen Alexandra Range (QUE) 94204, an enstatite achondrite, is a coarse‐grained, highly recrystallized, chondrule‐free and unbrecciated rock dominated (about 70 vol%) by anhedral, equigranular crystals of orthoenstatite of nearly endmember composition (Fs0.1–0.4, Wo0.3–0.4) with interstitial plagioclase, kamacite, and troilite. Abundance of approximately 120° triple junctions and the close association of metal–sulfide and plagioclase‐rich melts indicate that QUE 94204 has undergone limited partial melting with inefficient melt extraction. Mineral chemistry indicates a high degree of thermal metamorphism. Kamacite in QUE 94204 contains between 2.09 and 2.55 wt% Si, similar to highly metamorphosed EL chondrites. Plagioclase has between 4.31 and 6.66 wt% CaO, higher than other E chondrites but closer in composition to plagioclase from metamorphosed EL chondrites. QUE 94204 troilite contains up to 2.55 wt% Ti, consistent with extensive thermal metamorphism of an E chondrite‐like precursor. Results presented in this study indicate that QUE 94204 is the result of low degree, (about 5–20 vol%, probably toward the lower end of this range) partial melting of an E chondrite protolith. Textural and chemical evidence suggests that during the metamorphism of QUE 94204, melts formed first at the Fe,Ni‐FeS cotectic near approximately 900 °C, followed by plagioclase‐pyroxene silicate partial melts near approximately 1100 °C. Neither the Fe,Ni‐FeS nor the plagioclase‐pyroxene melts were efficiently segregated or extracted. QUE 94204 belongs to a grouplet of similar “primitive enstatite achondrites” that are analogous to the acapulcoites‐lodranites, but that have resulted from the partial melting of an E chondrite‐like protolith.
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine‐funded randomised controlled trials of acupuncture: a systematic review
Authors: Ernst Edzard , Snyder John , Dunlop Rachael A
Published: November 2011

The work of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has repeatedly been criticised. Much of this criticism relates to the past funding of studies of acupuncture. The aim of this article is to provide an independent, critical evaluation of the data produced by NCCAM‐funded RCTs of acupuncture. Relevant studies were identified using PubMed. Studies were included if they were NCCAM‐funded RCTs of acupuncture. Excluded were secondary reports of primary studies, RCTs not testing the effectiveness of acupuncture and National Institutes of Health‐funded studies not mentioning NCCAM support. One author extracted the data according to predefined criteria and assessed the risk of bias. The other authors verified these tasks. Thirteen RCTs were included, with sample sizes ranging from seven to 570. Most studies reported pain as the primary outcome. Six RCTs suggested acupuncture was effective. Seven RCTs had a low risk of bias. Numerous methodological shortcomings were identified. Many NCCAM‐funded RCTs of acupuncture have important limitations. These findings might improve future studies of acupuncture and could be considered in the ongoing debate regarding NCCAM‐funding.
Dopaminergic modulation of exercise hyperpnoea via D2 receptors in mice
Authors: Tsuchiya Naoto , Iwase Michiko , Izumizaki Masahiko , Homma Ikuo
Published: November 2011

Dopamine is related to behaviour (including arousal, motivation and motor control of locomotion), and its turnover in the brain is increased during exercise. We examined the hypothesis that dopamine D2 receptors contribute to exercise hyperpnoea via central neural pathways using the D2‐like receptor antagonist, raclopride. We simultaneously measured ventilation and pulmonary gas exchange for the first time in mice. Mice injected with saline and raclopride (2 mg (kg body weight)−1; i.p.) were compared for respiratory responses to constant‐load exercise at 6 m min−1. Each mouse was set in an airtight treadmill chamber. In the resting state, raclopride‐treated mice had reduced respiratory frequency (fR) and minute ventilation (
) compared with saline‐treated mice, but arterial
and pulmonary gas exchange were not affected, showing that alveolar ventilation was maintained. Inhalation of hyperoxic gas maintained
in saline‐treated mice, and hypercapnic ventilatory responses between the two groups were similar. Treadmill exercise produced an abrupt increase in
to a maximal level within 1 min and declined to a steady‐state level in both groups. Raclopride‐treated mice had reduced fR and
compared with saline‐treated mice during steady states, but showed a similar increase in fR and
at exercise onset. Minute ventilation in the steady state was controlled, along with the increase in pulmonary O2 uptake in both groups, but was lowered in raclopride‐treated mice. Thus, D2 receptors participate in resting breathing patterns to raise fR and exercise hyperpnoea in the steady state, probably through behavioural control and not central motor command, at exercise onset.
Characterization of Trpm1 desensitization in ON bipolar cells and its role in downstream signalling
Authors: Kaur Tejinder , Nawy Scott
Published: November 2011

Non‐technical summary  The retina can process over 10 log‐units of changes in light intensity allowing us to see in dim starlight to bright daylight. These changes in luminosity are detected first by photoreceptors, rods and cones, and then relayed to second‐order neurons, ON and OFF bipolar cells (BCs), before finally being encoded as spikes by ganglion cells (GCs). We found that ON BCs process light signals differently depending on the luminosity of the signal. In response to bright light, ON BCs undergo Ca2+‐dependent depression, referred to as desensitization, producing a transient response to a sustained light stimulus; however, no such transformation occurred in dim light. Furthermore, every ON BC was capable of producing desensitization. This desensitization was passed to GCs, resulting in transient spike trains. In conclusion, ON BCs play an important role in retinal processing by converting a sustained light signal into a transient one, in order to prevent saturation.
Temperature Fluctuation and Evaporative Loss Rate in an Algae Biofilm Photobioreactor
Authors: Murphy Thomas E. , Berberoğlu Halil
Published: November 2011

This study describes the thermal modeling of a novel algal biofilm photobioreactor aimed at cultivating algae for biofuel production. The thermal model is developed to assess the photobioreactor’s thermal profile and evaporative water loss rate for a range of environmental parameters, including ambient air temperature, solar irradiation, relative humidity, and wind speed. First, a week-long simulation of the system has been performed using environmental data for Memphis, TN, on a typical week during the spring, summer, fall, and winter. Then, a sensitivity analysis was performed to assess the effect of each weather parameter on the temperature and evaporative loss rate of the photobioreactor. The range of the daily algae temperature variation was observed to be 12.2  °C, 13.2 °C, 11.7 °C, and 8.2 °C in the spring, summer, fall, and winter, respectively. Furthermore, without active cooling, the characteristic evaporative water loss from the system is approximately 6.0 L/m2 day, 7.3 L/m2 day, 3.4 L/m2 day, and 1.0 L/m2 day in the spring, summer, fall, and winter, respectively.
A Numerical Model for Off-Design Performance Prediction of Parabolic Trough Based Solar Power Plants
Authors: Manzolini Giampaolo , Giostri Andrea , Saccilotto Claudio , Silva Paolo , Macchi Ennio
Published: November 2011

This paper deals with the development and testing of an innovative code for the performance prediction of solar trough based concentrated solar power (CSP) plants in off-design conditions. Off-design calculation starts from data obtained through the on-design algorithm and considers steady-state situations. The model is implemented in flexible software, named patto (parabolic trough thermodynamic optimization): the optical-thermal collector model can simulate different types of parabolic trough systems in commerce, including a combination of various mirrors, receivers and supports. The code is also flexible in terms of working fluid, temperature and pressure range, and can also simulate direct steam generation (DSG) plants. Solar plant heat and mass balances and performance at off-design conditions are estimated by accounting for the constraints imposed by the available heat transfer areas in heat exchangers, as well as by the characteristic curve of the steam turbine. The numerical model can be used either for single calculation in a specific off-design condition or for complete year simulation, by generating energy balances with an hourly resolution. The model is tested with a view to real applications and reference values found in literature: results show an overall yearly efficiency of 14.8% versus the 15% encountered in the Nevada Solar One. Moreover, the capacity factor is 25%, i.e., equal to the value predicted by sam®. Code potential in the design process reveals two different aspects: it can be used not only to optimize plant components and layout in feasibility studies but also to select the best control strategy during individual operating conditions.
A Modular Ceramic Cavity-Receiver for High-Temperature High-Concentration Solar Applications
Authors: Hischier I. , Poživil P. , Steinfeld A.
Published: November 2011

A high-temperature pressurized air-based receiver is considered as a module for power generation via solar-driven gas turbines. A set of silicon carbide cavity-receivers attached to a compound parabolic concentrator (CPC) are tested on a solar tower at stagnation conditions for 35 kW solar radiative power input under mean solar concentration ratios of 2000 suns and nominal temperatures up to 1600 K. A heat transfer model coupling radiation, conduction, and convection is formulated by Monte Carlo ray-tracing, finite volume, and finite element techniques, and validated in terms of experimentally measured temperatures. The model is applied to elucidate the effect of material properties, geometry, and reflective coatings on the cavity’s thermal and structural performances.
Laser nitriding of niobium for application to superconducting radio-frequency accelerator cavities
Authors: Singaravelu S. , Klopf J. M. , Krafft G. , Kelley M. J.
Published: November 2011

Particle accelerators are a key tool for scientific research ranging from fundamental studies of matter to analytical studies at light sources. Cost-for-performance is critical, both in terms of initial capital outlay and ongoing operating expense, especially for electricity. The major factor is the niobium superconducting radio frequency (SRF) accelerator cavities at the heart of many of these machines. Presently, niobium SRF cavities operate near 1.9 K, well below the 4.2 K atmospheric boiling point of liquid helium to obtain sufficient performance. The consequent electric power costs are the most significant limit to operate the SRF cavities at 1.9 K. Transforming the cavity interior surface from niobium to δ niobium nitride (δNbN) with a critical temperature (Tc) ≅ 17 K instead of 9.2 K, appears to be a promising approach to raising the operating temperature. The traditional furnace method has nitrided niobium, but apparently have not been able to obtain δNbN.1 Moreover, furnace nitriding requires exposing the complete SRF cavity to an aggressive time-temperature history, risking mechanical distortion. As an alternative, laser gas nitriding has been applied successfully to a number of metals.2 A very recent review is available.3 The beam dimensions and thermal diffusion length permit modeling in one dimension to predict the time course of the surface temperature for a range of per-pulse energy densities. As with the earlier work,2 we chose conditions just sufficient for boiling of the niobium surface as a reference point. The treated materials were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electron probe microanalysis and x ray diffraction (XRD). The SEM images show a sharp transition with fluence from a smooth, undulating topography to significant roughening, interpreted here as the onset of ablation. Electron probe microanalysis measurements found a constant value of the nitrogen/niobium atom ratio to depths greater than the SRF active layer thickness. Certain irradiation conditions resulted in atomic ratio values consistent with formation of δNbN, and XRD data indicated only δNbN on top of the niobium metal.
Building a Better Barrier with Broccoli?
Authors: Adler Elizabeth M.
Published: November 2011

Activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in intestinal lymphocytes by dietary components contributes to intestinal immune defenses.
Watching the Action
Authors: Vinson Valda K.
Published: November 2011

Computational and experimental results provide support for defined protein folding pathways.
Snake Oil Revisited
Authors: Kiberstis Paula A.
Published: November 2011

A specific set of circulating fatty acids triggers cardiac hypertrophy in snakes and mammals.
Myc Against Mycobacteria
Authors: Wong Wei
Published: November 2011

Cytoplasmic Myc promotes antimycobacterial immune responses in macrophages.
Genome Sequence of the White Koji Mold Aspergillus kawachii IFO 4308, Used for Brewing the Japanese Distilled Spirit Shochu
Authors: Futagami Taiki , Mori Kazuki , Yamashita Ayaka , Wada Shotaro , Kajiwara Yasuhiro , Takashita Hideharu , Omori Toshiro , Takegawa Kaoru , Tashiro Kosuke , Kuhara Satoru , Goto Masatoshi
Published: November 2011

The filamentous fungus
Aspergillus kawachii
has traditionally been used for brewing the Japanese distilled spirit shochu.
A. kawachii
characteristically hyperproduces citric acid and a variety of polysaccharide glycoside hydrolases. Here the genome sequence of
A. kawachii
IFO 4308 was determined and annotated. Analysis of the sequence may provide insight into the properties of this fungus that make it superior for use in shochu production, leading to the further development of
A. kawachii
for industrial applications.
Occurrence of potentially pathogenic vibrios and related environmental factors in Songkhla Lake, Thailand
Authors: Thongchankaew Uraiwan , Mittraparp-arthorn Pimonsri , Sukhumungoon Pharanai , Tansila Natta , Nuidate Taiyeebah , Nishibuchi Mitsuaki , Vuddhakul Varaporn
Published: November 2011

Vibrios are halophilic bacteria that are ubiquitous in marine environments. Their occurrence in tropical lakes has rarely been investigated. In this study, the predominance and diversity of Vibrio spp. was investigated over a 12-month period in a coastal lagoon, Songkhla Lake, in southern Thailand. Water samples were collected at 2 stations in the estuary near Yor Island in Songkhla Lake. The predominant vibrios were detected by a culture-based method, using thiosulfate–citrate–bile salt–sucrose agar and CHROMagar Vibrio. The diversity of Vibrio spp. was evaluated using denaturant density gradient electrophoresis (DGGE). The highest numbers of total vibrios and Vibrio parahaemolyticus in both areas were observed during the summer. There was no significant correlation between the numbers of vibrios, including V. parahaemolyticus, and either the water temperature or plankton density. Variations in Vibrio species were observed with changes in salinity. Vibrio parahaemolyticus and V. cholerae non-O1/non-O139 were detected during the rainy season when the salinity dropped to nearly 0 parts per thousand. In both areas, V. alginolyticus was the most prominent species detected by the culture method, whereas Vibrio parahaemolyticus was detected by DGGE, every month. Other Vibrio spp. of potential public health concern were also detected by the culture method; they included V. vulnificus , V. fluvialis , and V. mimicus .
POWER-LAW ENTROPY CORRECTED NEW HOLOGRAPHIC SCALAR FIELD MODELS OF DARK ENERGY WITH MODIFIED IR-CUTOFF
Authors: KHODAM-MOHAMMADI A.
Published: November 2011

In this work, the PLECHDE model with Granda–Oliveros (G–O) IR-cutoff is studied. The evolution of dark energy density, deceleration and EoS parameters are calculated. I demonstrate that under a condition, our universe can accelerate near the phantom barrier at present time. We calculate these parameters also in PLECHDE at Ricci scale, when α = 2 and β = 1, and a comparison between Ricci scale, G–O cutoff and non-corrected HDE without matter field with G–O cutoff is done. The correspondence between this model and some scalar field of dark energy models is established. By this method, the evolutionary treatment of kinetic energy and potential for quintessence, tachyon, K-essence and dilaton fields, are obtained. I show that the results has a good compatibility with previous work in the limiting case of flat, dark dominated and non-corrected holographic dark energy.
GRAVITY DUAL FOR CYCLIC RENORMALIZATION GROUP FLOW WITHOUT CONFORMAL INVARIANCE
Authors: NAKAYAMA YU
Published: November 2011

We construct a gravity dual for scale invariant but non-conformal field theories with a cyclic renormalization group flow. A slight modification of our construction gives a gravity dual of discretely scale invariant field theories. The underlying gravitational theory breaks the null energy condition.
THERMODYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF IRON-BASED SUPERCONDUCTOR
Authors: LIANG FANGYING
Published: November 2011

We consider a modified time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau model (TDGL) and layer model of Lawrence–Doniach to study the thermal properties in iron-based superconductors. We try to calculate the specific heat, and obtain some formulae. The expressions will be useful in the discussions of some of the most recent experimental data.
AN ADVANCED MESHLESS METHOD FOR TIME FRACTIONAL DIFFUSION EQUATION
Authors: GU Y. T. , ZHUANG P. , LIU Q.
Published: November 2011

Recently, because of the new developments in sustainable engineering and renewable energy, which are usually governed by a series of fractional partial differential equations (FPDEs), the numerical modeling and simulation for fractional calculus are attracting more and more attention from researchers. The current dominant numerical method for modeling FPDE is finite difference method (FDM), which is based on a pre-defined grid leading to inherited issues or shortcomings including difficulty in simulation of problems with the complex problem domain and in using irregularly distributed nodes. Because of its distinguished advantages, the meshless method has good potential in simulation of FPDEs. This paper aims to develop an implicit meshless collocation technique for FPDE. The discrete system of FPDEs is obtained by using the meshless shape functions and the meshless collocation formulation. The stability and convergence of this meshless approach are investigated theoretically and numerically. The numerical examples with regular and irregular nodal distributions are used to validate and investigate accuracy and efficiency of the newly developed meshless formulation. It is concluded that the present meshless formulation is very effective for the modeling and simulation of FPDEs.
PREDICTION OF STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY, ROBUSTNESS, AND SERVICE LIFE USING ADVANCED FINITE ELEMENT METHODS
Authors: WU ZHENG PING , GU Y. T.
Published: November 2011

Corrosion is a common phenomenon and critical aspects of steel structural application. It affects the daily design, inspection, and maintenance in structural engineering, especially for the heavy and complex industrial applications, where the steel structures are subjected to hash corrosive environments in combination of high working stress condition and often in open field and/or under high temperature production environments. In the paper, it presents the actual engineering application of advanced finite element methods in the predication of the structural integrity and robustness at a designed service life for the furnaces of alumina production, which was operated in the high temperature, corrosive environments, and rotating with high working stress condition.
NO EIGENVALUES OUTSIDE THE SUPPORT OF THE LIMITING SPECTRAL DISTRIBUTION OF INFORMATION-PLUS-NOISE TYPE MATRICES
Authors: BAI ZHIDONG , SILVERSTEIN JACK W.
Published: November 2011

We consider a class of matrices of the form Cn = (1/N)(Rn + σXn)(Rn + σXn)*, where Xn is an n × N matrix consisting of independent standardized complex entries, Rn is an n × N nonrandom matrix, and σ > 0. Among several applications, Cn can be viewed as a sample correlation matrix, where information is contained in [Formula: see text], but each column of Rn is contaminated by noise. As n → ∞, if n/N → c > 0, and the empirical distribution of the eigenvalues of [Formula: see text] converge to a proper probability distribution, then the empirical distribution of the eigenvalues of Cn converges a.s. to a nonrandom limit. In this paper we show that, under certain conditions on Rn, for any closed interval in ℝ+ outside the support of the limiting distribution, then, almost surely, no eigenvalues of Cn will appear in this interval for all n large.
TRUNCATIONS OF HAAR DISTRIBUTED MATRICES, TRACES AND BIVARIATE BROWNIAN BRIDGES
Authors: DONATI-MARTIN CATHERINE , ROUAULT ALAIN
Published: November 2011

Let U be a Haar distributed matrix in 𝕌(n) or 𝕆(n). We show that after centering the two-parameter process [Formula: see text] converges in distribution to the bivariate tied-down Brownian bridge.
Special Issue on Broadening Participation in Computing Education (Part 2)
Authors: Ladner Richard , VanDeGrift Tammy
Published: November 2011

This special issue includes the second set of articles addressing broadening participation in computing education. The articles span the stages of the pipeline, from introducing middle school children to computer science to retaining under-represented groups at the university level. The preface presented here outlines the need for increasing the participation of under-represented minorities, women, and people with disabilities in the development of technology. In addition, the preface summarizes the seven articles included in this second issue (of two) on broadening participation.
Orientation of Undergraduates Toward Careers in the Computer and Information Sciences
Authors: Rosson Mary Beth , Carroll John M. , Sinha Hansa
Published: November 2011

Researchers have been working to understand the factors that may be contributing to low rates of participation by women and other minorities in the computer and information sciences (CIS). We describe a multivariate investigation of male and female university students’ orientation to CIS careers. We focus on the roles ofself-efficacyand peer-basedsocial supportas social-cognitive variables in the students’ learning process. We explore these variables and their impact on career orientation through a set of overlapping regression models. In general, we find that strong social support and high self-efficacy are associated with strong orientation toward careers in CIS careers. However the influences of perceived self-efficacy and social support appear to differ for men and women: while low self-efficacy is tied to less social support for males, we see no similar tendency for females. In fact many females who report themselves as low in self-efficacy consider themselves to have high social support among their peers. We discuss the implications of our findings for programs aimed at outreach to both males and females regarding CIS education and careers.
The STARS Alliance
Authors: Dahlberg Teresa , Barnes Tiffany , Buch Kim , Rorrer Audrey
Published: November 2011

The Students and Technology in Academia, Research, and Service (STARS) Alliance is a nationally-connected system of regional partnerships among higher education, K-12 schools, industry and the community with a mission to broaden the participation of women, under-represented minorities and persons with disabilities in computing (BPC). Each regional partnership is led by a STARS member college or university with partners such as local chapters of the Girl Scouts, the Black Data Processors Association, public libraries, Citizen Schools, and companies that employ computing graduates. STARS goals include retaining and graduating undergraduates and recruiting and bridging undergraduates into graduate programs. The alliance works toward these goals through activities that advance the central values of Technical Excellence, Leadership, Community, and Service and Civic Engagement. In particular, all STARS college and university members implement the STARS Leadership Corps (SLC), an innovative model for enveloping a diverse set of BPC practices within a common framework for implementation within multiple organizations, common assessment, and sustainability through curricula integration. Herein, we describe the SLC model and its implementation in the STARS schools, including details of an SLC service-learning course that has been adopted by eight STARS schools. We report the results of our three-year study of the SLC in the 20 STARS schools. Our study found a positive effect of participation in the SLC on important student success variables, including self-efficacy, perceived social relevance of computing, grade point average, and commitment to remain in computing. Results indicate that the SLC model is effective for students under-represented in computing, as well as for those not from under-represented groups.