bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Dynamic Rheology at Various Frequencies of Surimi Paste as Affected by Heating Rates and Moisture Contents
Authors: Poowakanjana Samanan , Park Jae W. , Moon Ji hoon , Yoon Won Byong
Published: May 2015

Dynamic rheological properties of Alaska pollock (AP) surimi as affected by various heating rates (1, 5, 10, 20 and 30C/min) and moisture contents (75, 78 and 81%) were investigated at different frequencies (0.1, 1 and 10 Hz). Elastic modulus (G′) decreased as heating rate increased regardless of frequencies applied during temperature sweep. A temperature lag between heating plate and sample specimen was found at heating rates above 5C/min. A magnitude of change in phase angle between 30 and 50C, where light meromyosin unfolds and aggregates, increased significantly as heating rates changed from 1 to 30C/min, indicating fast heating is not favored for gel formation of pollock surimi. The slowest frequency applied (0.1 Hz) was more effective in examining the dynamic rheology of fish proteins. High moisture content (81%) exhibited a slowly ascending G′ curve after gelling point and indicated slow completion of gelation.

Practical Applications

Our results showed that the controlling heating rates and moisture contents may be employed to optimize the gelation of Alaska pollock (AP) surimi. In addition, the low frequency (0.1 Hz) well differentiated the effects of heating rate and moisture content on the rheological properties. Especially, the gelation with a slow heating rate, which significantly enhanced the rheological properties of AP surimi gels, maybe practically applied to control the heating process of various surimi seafood products, such as fish balls. Our new findings may be applied to estimate the effect of heating rate and the moisture contents on the rheological properties of surimi from other species.
Oral Processing of Low Water Content Foods – A Development to Hutchings and Lillford's Breakdown Path
Authors: Hawthornthwaite David , Ramjan Yaneez , Rosenthal Andrew
Published: May 2015

The “hard‐to‐swallow” phenomenon previously reported for peanut paste has been investigated for other oil seed butters. The temporal dominance of sensation (TDS) technique showed similar findings, adding to the list of materials that do not follow Hutchings and Lillford's breakdown path (Journal of Texture Studies 19: 103–115). From our data, we propose a modification to the Hutchings and Lillford model that allows for initial hydration of dry foods. The model holds well for oil seed pastes and may also help to explain the behavior of some dry, carbohydrate‐rich foods previously constrained to fit extant models. Because TDS does not measure the magnitude of an attribute, we undertook time intensity studies to assess stickiness of peanut pastes during oral processing. In the absence of another attribute becoming dominant, the intensity of sticky/cohesive sensations may remain paramount but diminish in intensity, prior to swallowing.

Practical Applications

Modeling oral processing may help us to understand the triggers for swallowing and thus assist people with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia). The much cited model developed by Hutchings and Lillford appears not to hold for all foods and exceptions necessarily require further investigation. This paper considers other published studies on oral processing of low water foods, offering an alternative interpretation to those previously given.
Carbon allocation in aquatic plants with contrasting strategies: the role of habitat nutrient content
Authors: Grasset Charlotte , Delolme Cécile , Arthaud Florent , Bornette Gudrun
Published: May 2015

Questions

The link between the carbon composition of aquatic plants and (1) plant strategies and (2) habitat nutrient availability has received little attention. We tested whether three aquatic species belonging to the three adaptive strategies defined by Grime (ruderal, stress tolerant and competitive) had contrasting carbon allocation patterns, and if these patterns varied in the same way between populations distributed along a gradient of habitat nutrient content.

Location

Wetlands in the northern Rhône River Basin, France.

Methods

The three species were sampled in 17 wetlands along a gradient of nutrient content in the northern Rhône River Basin. In each population sampled, we measured plant water content, C/N ratio, structural compounds (lignin and structural polysaccharides) and storage compounds (free sugars and starch) in two seasons (spring and autumn 2012).

Results

The stress‐tolerant species had higher content of structural compounds than the competitive and ruderal species. The content of storage compounds was higher in the competitive and stress‐tolerant species compared to the ruderal species. Allocation of carbon compounds varied with habitat nutrient content in different ways for the three species, suggesting contrasting plasticities, possibly linked to plant strategy.

Conclusion

Plant strategies and habitat nutrient content are likely key drivers in plant carbon allocation and should be taken into account when studying interactions between habitat and plant quality.
Clusterin/Apolipoprotein J immunoreactivity is associated with white matter damage in cerebral small vessel diseases
Authors: Craggs Lucinda , Taylor Julie , Slade Janet Y. , Chen Aiqing , Hagel Christian , Kuhlenbaeumer Gregor , Borjesson‐Hanson Anne , Viitanen Matti , Kalimo Hannu , Deramecourt Vincent , Oakley Arthur E. , Kalaria Raj N.
Published: May 2015

Aim

Brain clusterin is known to be associated with the amyloid‐β deposits in Alzheimer's disease (AD). We assessed the distribution of clusterin immunoreactivity in cerebrovascular disorders, particularly focusing on white matter changes in small vessel diseases.

Methods

Post‐mortem brain tissues from the frontal or temporal lobes of a total of 70 subjects with various disorders including cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) and AD were examined using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. We further used immunogold electron microscopy to study clusterin immunoreactivity in extracellular deposits in CADASIL.

Results

Immunostaining with clusterin antibodies revealed strong localization in arterioles and capillaries, besides cortical neurones. We found that clusterin immunostaining was significantly increased in the frontal white matter of CADASIL and pontine autosomal dominant microangiopathy and leukoencephalopathy subjects. In addition, clusterin immunostaining correlated with white matter pathology severity scores. Immunostaining in axons ranged from fine punctate deposits in single axons to larger confluent areas with numerous swollen axon bulbs, similar to that observed with known axon damage markers such as non‐phosphorylated neurofilament H and the amyloid precursor protein. Immunofluorescence and immunogold electron microscopy experiments showed that whereas clusterin immunoreactivity was closely associated with vascular amyloid‐β in CAA, it was lacking within the granular osmiophilic material immunolabelled by NOTCH3 extracelluar domain aggregates found in CADASIL.

Conclusions

Our results suggest a wider role for clusterin associated with white matter damage in addition to its ability to chaperone proteins for clearance via the perivascular drainage pathways in several disease states.
Quantitative trait loci mapping of freezing tolerance and photosynthetic acclimation to cold in winter two‐ and six‐rowed barley
Authors: Tyrka Mirosław , Rapacz Marcin , Fiust Anna , Wójcik‐Jagła Magdalena
Published: May 2015

Photoacclimation (PA) and freezing tolerance (FT) have been identified as closely related traits, due to common mechanisms of environmental control. In this study, diversity array technology (DArT) was used for identification of the quantitative trait loci (QTL) of FT and PA in winter barley. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers were subsequently used to saturate QTL regions. Two F2 mapping populations were created, for two‐rowed (P44) and six‐rowed barley (CaP). Different regions of the genome were responsible for differences in traits between parents in these two populations. Eleven QTLs were identified in the P44 population, including five typical for FT and PA, on chromosomes 2H, 3H and 7H. In the CaP population, only one QTL connected with PA and 10 connected with FT were found on all chromosomes except 2H. Our results demonstrate that different sets of markers should be applied in marker‐assisted selection for FT in two‐ and six‐rowed barley, as several loci determine FT at the level of biparental crosses.
Ecthyma Gangrenosum Caused by Escherichia coli in a Previously Healthy Girl
Authors: Mouna Korbi , Akkari Hayet , Faten Hammedi , Yosra Kadri , Hichem Belhadjali , Maha Mastouri , Abdelfatteh Zakhama , Jamelledine Zili
Published: May 2015

Ecthyma gangrenosum is a characteristic lesion of Pseudomonas aeruginosa sepsis in immunocompromised patients. Only eight cases of ecthyma gangrenosum caused by Escherichia coli have been reported. We report a case of ecthyma gangrenosum due to E. coli without bacteremia in a previously healthy girl.
Large Congenital Melanocytic Nevus on the Breast Sparing the Nipple and Areola
Authors: Baykal Can , Solakoğlu Seyhun , Polat Ekinci Algün , Yazganoğlu Kurtuluş Didem
Published: May 2015

Background

Divided nevus is a rare entity that has been described for a special appearance of congenital melanocytic nevi (CMNs) occurring on the eyelid and penis. It is presumed that the formation of divided nevi is related with the embryologic development of the eyelid and penis, thus giving a hint about the occurrence time of CMN in utero. This article focuses on a formerly undescribed observation of another special clinical appearance of CMN discussing possible relation with embryogenesis.

Methods

The data including photographic documentations of a total number of 86 patients with large CMN seen in a single center were reviewed according to the involvement of the nipple and areola by the main mass of the nevus and associated satellite lesions.

Results

Eight patients presented with CMNs involving one (n=6) or both (n=2) breast region. In all of them, CMN surrounded the nipple‐areola complex without involving these structures. Furthermore, satellite nevi have not been observed on the nipple and areola in any of the 86 patients.

Conclusion

We presume that different developmental time periods of the breast and the nipple–areola complex and the occurrence of the melanocytic lesion before the embryologic development of nipple–areola complex could explain our observation of CMN sparing the nipple–areola complex. The term “nipple‐sparing nevus of the breast” is suggested for this special clinical appearance of CMN.
Diversity and pathogenicity of the Ceratocystidaceae associated with cacao agroforests in Cameroon
Authors: Mbenoun M. , Wingfield M. J. , Begoude Boyogueno A. D. , Nsouga Amougou F. , Petchayo Tigang S. , ten Hoopen G. M. , Mfegue C. V. , Dibog L. , Nyassé S. , Wingfield B. D. , Roux J.
Published: May 2015

Knowledge of the diversity and ecology of plant pathogenic fungi in cacao agroforests and surrounding natural ecosystems can inform the development of sustainable management strategies for new cacao disease outbreaks. This study investigated the occurrence of fungi related to the Ceratocystidaceae and their nitidulid beetle vectors in cacao agroforests in Cameroon, under diverse agroecological conditions. The fungi and their vectors were collected from artificially induced stem wounds on cacao and associated shade trees. Collections were also made from abandoned cacao pod husks and other tree wounds within and around plantations. Fungal isolates were identified using DNA sequence‐based phylogenies and morphological comparisons, and two representatives of each species were evaluated for pathogenicity on cacao. Five species of Ceratocystidaceae were recovered, including Huntiella chlamydoformis sp. nov., H. pycnanthi sp. nov. and H. moniliformis, as well as Thielaviopsis cerberus and T. ethacetica. The incidence of these fungi appeared to be influenced by the prevailing agroecological conditions. Nitidulid beetles in the genus Brachypeplus were found to be their most common insect associates on cacao. Both T. ethacetica and H. pycnanthi produced extensive lesions after inoculation on branches of mature cacao trees, while T. ethacetica also caused pod rot. Although their impact remains unknown, fungi in the Ceratocystidaceae and their nitidulid beetle vectors are common and probably contribute to the parasitic pressure in Cameroonian cacao agrosystems.
Here, There, and Everywhere: Leviathan and the Digital Future of Observational Ethnography
Authors: Landesman Ohad
Published: May 2015

Véréna Paravel and Lucien Castaing‐Taylor's Leviathan (2012) is often analyzed in terms of its radical film language and the unique immersive spectatorial experience it creates. Contrary to this approach, which tends to rely on a critical discourse of rupture and newness, this article discusses the film in terms of the continuities it forms with the observational sensibility in ethnographic filmmaking. Leviathan, it argues, marks a noteworthy maturation of this tradition by deploying digital technologies to create new conditions of visibility and listening. Registering explicitly and self‐reflexively how its makers are inextricably bound up with the world they document, Leviathan marks new horizons for participatory observation in ethnographic cinema.
“His Eyes Are Like the Rays of Dawn”: Color Vision and Embodiment inLeviathan
Authors: Hanssen Eirik Frisvold
Published: May 2015

LucienCastaing‐Taylor and VérénaParavel, the filmmakers behindLeviathan(2012), have described the effect of the film's images as seeming both completely disembodied and yet connected to a subjective,embodiedexperience. The aim of this essay is to address how this duality of embodiment and disembodiment also can be a useful angle to examine the color aesthetics of the film. Focusing on the subjective and unstable nature of color vision, a documentary such asLeviathanbecomes an exploration of how both our bodies and different technologies register, reconfigure, and structure external reality. The muddled boundaries between documentary and experimental film thatLeviathanexemplifies also fit in with dominant discourses on color and cinema, equally preoccupied with the reproduction of reality as with the aesthetic possibilities for chromatic experimentation and abstraction. In addition to exploring color inLeviathanin terms of moving between the subjective and the disembodied, and the implications of this duality with regard to visual anthropology,Iwill emphasize how the color aesthetics of the film is a markedly digital one, reflecting the properties of color in digital moving images.
Leviathan and the Discourse of Sensory Ethnography: Spleen et idéal
Authors: Russell Catherine
Published: May 2015

This article asks about the stakes of experimental ethnography in Leviathan by analyzing the film in terms of Walter Benjamin's concept of anthropological materialism. Taking into account the digital technologies of production, and the goals of the filmmakers as exponents of sensory ethnography, my inquiry pursues three interrelated questions: the experience of Leviathan, the humanism of Leviathan, and the text of Leviathan.
First report in a dog model of atopic dermatitis: expression patterns of protease‐activated receptor‐2 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin
Authors: Kim Ha‐Jung , Ahrens Kim , Park Hee‐Myung , Marsella Rosanna
Published: May 2015

Background

Protease‐activated receptor (PAR)‐2 plays a crucial role in inflammation and the skin barrier. Protease‐activated receptor‐2 is activated by proteolytic enzymes of allergens and stimulates thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), promoting T‐helper 2 cytokines. In humans with atopic dermatitis (AD), increased expression of PAR‐2 and TSLP has been reported.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To compare the pattern of staining of PAR‐2 and TSLP between normal and atopic beagle dogs. The hypothesis tested was that increased expression is present in atopic dog skin compared with healthy control skin.

Animals

Eight atopic and five normal dogs were challenged for 3 days with house dust mites.

Methods

Skin biopsies were taken to measure the intensity, distribution, integrity and cell staining pattern on days 0, 3 and 10, both objectively and subjectively. Clinical signs were scored and compared between groups.

Results

Atopic dogs showed a significant increase in clinical scores on days 3 (peak of challenge) and 10 (resolution) and a significant condensed staining pattern for TSLP in the stratum basale at all times in comparison to normal dogs. They showed a significant patchy pattern for PAR‐2 on days 0 and 3 and for TSLP at all times compared with normal dogs. The intensity itself was not significantly increased in atopic dogs compared with normal animals for both PAR‐2 and TSLP.

Conclusions and clinical importance

These preliminary findings do not confirm a difference in the amount of expression but rather in its pattern. Studies using PAR‐2 or TSLP inhibitors could shed light on their clinical relevance.
Oclacitinib in feline nonflea‐, nonfood‐induced hypersensitivity dermatitis: results of a small prospective pilot study of client‐owned cats
Authors: Ortalda Christian , Noli Chiara , Colombo Silvia , Borio Stefano
Published: May 2015

Background

Oclacitinib is a Janus kinase inhibitor that decreases pruritus and lesions in allergic dogs. In cats, it is able to inhibit interleukin‐31‐induced pruritus; no information is available on its clinical effectiveness.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy, ease of administration and tolerability of oclacitinib in feline nonflea‐, nonfood‐induced hypersensitivity dermatitis.

Methods

Cats >12 months of age and >3 kg body weight with a diagnosis of nonflea‐, nonfood‐induced hypersensitivity dermatitis were treated with oclacitinib, 0.4–0.6 mg/kg orally (p.o.) twice daily for 2 weeks, then once daily for an additional 14 days. Clinical lesions were evaluated with the Scoring Feline Allergic Dermatitis (SCORFAD) system and pruritus was evaluated with a 10‐cm‐long visual analog scale (VAS) before and at the end of the study. Owners assessed global efficacy, ease of administration and tolerability with a four‐point scale.

Results

Twelve cats were treated with a mean initial oclacitinib dose of 0.47 mg/kg p.o. twice daily. There was good improvement in SCORFAD and VAS pruritus scores in five of 12 cases, while the other cats were unchanged, deteriorated or dropped out due to treatment failure. Owners scored global efficacy as good/excellent in four of 12 cases and ease of administration and tolerability as good/excellent in 10 of 12.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Oclacitinib at 0.4–0.6 mg/kg p.o. may be an effective and safe drug for some cats with nonflea‐, nonfood‐induced hypersensitivity dermatitis. Further studies are needed to identify the most effective dose range for this species.
Numerical and Experimental Study on the Tonal Noise Generation of a Radial Fan
Authors: Darvish Manoochehr , Frank Stefan , Paschereit Christian Oliver
Published: May 2015

The main focus of this work is on the geometrical modifications can be made to the fan wheel and to the volute tongue of a radial fan to reduce the tonal noise. The experimental measurements are performed by using the in-duct method in accordance with ISO 5136. In addition to the experimental measurements, CFD (computational fluid dynamics) and CAA (computational aeroacoustics) simulations are carried out to investigate the effects of different modifications on noise and performance of the fan. It is shown that by modifying the blade outlet angle, the tonal noise of the fan can be reduced without impairing its aerodynamic performance. Moreover, it is indicated that increasing the number of blades leads to a significant reduction in the tonal noise and also an improvement in the aerodynamic performance. However, this trend is only valid up to a certain number of blades, and a further increment might reduce the aerodynamic performance of the fan. Besides modifying the impeller geometry, new volute tongues are designed and tested on the rig. It is demonstrated that the shape of the volute tongue plays an important role in the tonal noise generation of the fan. Moreover, in order to find out whether or not it is possible to reduce the tonal noise level through a destructive phase-shift generation, stepped tongues are comprehensively investigated by means of numerical simulations and experimental measurements.
Part Load Performance and Operating Strategies of a Natural Gas—Biomass Dual Fueled Microturbine for Combined Heat and Power Generation
Authors: Camporeale Sergio Mario , Fortunato Bernardo , Torresi Marco , Turi Flavia , Pantaleo Antonio Marco , Pellerano Achille
Published: May 2015

The focus of this paper is on the part load performance of a small scale (100 kWe) combined heat and power (CHP) plant fired by natural gas (NG) and solid biomass to serve a residential energy demand. The plant is based on a modified regenerative microgas turbine (MGT), where compressed air exiting from recuperator is externally heated by the hot gases produced in a biomass furnace; then the air is conveyed to combustion chamber where a conventional internal combustion with NG takes place, reaching the maximum cycle temperature allowed by the turbine blades. The hot gas expands in the turbine and then feeds the recuperator, while the biomass combustion flue gases are used for preheating the combustion air that feeds the furnace. The part load efficiency is examined considering a single shaft layout of the gas turbine and variable speed regulation. In this layout, the turbine shaft is connected to a high speed electric generator and a frequency converter is used to adjust the frequency of the produced electric power. The results show that the variable rotational speed operation allows high the part load efficiency, mainly due to maximum cycle temperature that can be kept about constant. Different biomass/NG energy input ratios are also modeled, in order to assess the trade-offs between: (i) lower energy conversion efficiency and higher investment cost when increasing the biomass input rate and (ii) higher primary energy savings (PESs) and revenues from feed-in tariff available for biomass electricity fed into the grid. The strategies of baseload (BL), heat driven (HD), and electricity driven (ED) plant operation are compared, for an aggregate of residential end-users in cold, average, and mild climate conditions.
Predictions of Flow Separation at the Valve Seat for Steady-State Port-Flow Simulation
Authors: Fang Tao , Singh Satbir
Published: May 2015

Steady-state port-flow simulations with static valve lift are often utilized to optimize the performance of intake system of an internal combustion engine. Generally, increase in valve lift results in higher mass flow rate through the valve. But in certain cases, mass flow rate can actually decrease with increased valve lift, caused by separation of turbulent flow at the valve seat. Prediction of this phenomenon using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models is not trivial. It is found that the computational mesh significantly influences the simulation results. A series of steady-state port-flow simulations are carried out using a commercial CFD code. Several mesh topologies are applied for the simulations. The predicted results are compared with available experimental data from flow bench measurements. It is found that the flow separation and reduction in mass flow rate with increased valve lift can be predicted when high mesh density is used in the proximity of the valve seat and the walls of the intake port. Higher mesh density also gives better predictions of mass flow rate compared to the experiments, but only for high valve lifts. For low valve lifts, the error in predicted flow rate is close to 13%.
Design of Lower Limb Prosthesis Transverse Plane Adaptor With Variable Stiffness
Authors: Pew Corey , Klute Glenn K.
Published: May 2015

A lower limb prosthesis is able to restore mobility to patients who have lost a limb; however, no current replacement is as moveable and adaptable as the limb that was lost. Therefore, all amputees suffer from a reduction in function at some level. Movement in the transverse plane of a lower limb prosthesis is often negated in a traditional prosthesis, and those devices that do allow for transverse plane motion are set to a single, fixed stiffness, and incapable of adapting to the varying activities of the user. A prototype device has been created that allows for varying stiffness in the transverse plane of a lower limb prosthesis. The variable stiffness torsion adapter (VSTA) functions by way of a movable pivot lever arm that can actively modify the mechanical advantage between the outer housing and the internal spring. The motion of the pivot is perpendicular to the external torque allowing for low power adjustments of the stiffness. Bench tests were performed and demonstrate the ability of the VSTA to vary torsional stiffness between 0.12 and 0.91 N m/deg over a ±30 deg rotational range of motion. The device also includes a mode for fully locked operation. The VSTA may improve the mobility of lower limb amputees by allowing for activity-dependent transverse plane stiffness.
Partial Stall Effects on the Failure of an Axial Compressor Blade
Authors: Poursaeidi E. , Mohammadi Arhani M. R. , Hosseini S. , Darayi M. , Arablu M.
Published: May 2015

This paper is aimed to show the effects of partial stall on the fracture of the first stage rotating blades of the gas turbine compressors of an onshore gas refinery. The first part of the paper deals with the results of finite element modeling (FEM) of stress distribution and stress concentration areas on the blades under its first to third natural frequencies. Comparison of the stress concentration areas with the fractured blades shows that the blades have been fractured due to resonance under the first and second natural frequencies. The second part of the paper deals with the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation of air flowing through the blades to determine the most probable sources of vibrational loads as the aerodynamic forces. Results of CFD simulations show that the operation of the gas turbines under 40–50% of their nominal output power—which has been very regular in the history of operation of the turbines—increases the possibility of stall at the tip side of the first stages rotating blades. The vortices shedding due to downwash flow at the tip side of the blades causes flow instability and increases the aerodynamic vibrational forces on the blades, which finally makes them to experience a kind of high cycle fatigue (HCF).
Study of New Exhaust Ejector for Marine Gas Turbine
Authors: Sun Tao , Ye Nan , Xu Yuehan , Wang Guohui , Yuan Minghui
Published: May 2015

With the development at infrared guidance weapon, the survival of the ship, especially in high risk areas, is facing serious challenges. In order to improve its survival ability, infrared suppression system emerges. Marine gas turbine exhaust ejector system is its core component, which is responsible for reducing or even eliminating the infrared radiation signal of marine gas turbine exhaust system. Based on collecting data on many sorts of ejectors, we sort out literature related to gas turbine exhaust ejector. From the view of ejector structure, the paper briefly describes the development of gas turbine exhaust ejector used on ships in domestic and foreign. Put forward two major structural innovations: the structure of nozzle changes from circular to rectangular and diffuser adopts multilevel structure. A new type of marine gas turbine exhaust ejector was designed. Ejector model is simplified. Use numerical simulation method to predict the single-stage ejector and multistage ejectors. Further structural optimization plan and design can be made based on this essay.
Cathodic cage plasma deposition of TiN and TiO2 thin films on silicon substrates
Authors: de Sousa Romulo R. M. , Sato Patricia S. , Viana Bartolomeu C. , Alves Clodomiro , Nishimoto Akio , Nascente Pedro A. P.
Published: May 2015

Cathodic cage plasma deposition (CCPD) was used for growing titanium nitride (TiN) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) thin films on silicon substrates. The main advantages of the CCPD technique are the uniformity, tridimensionality, and high rate of the film deposition that occurs at higher pressures, lower temperatures, and lower treatment times than those used in conventional nitriding treatments. In this work, the influence of the temperature and gas atmosphere upon the characteristics of the deposited films was investigated. The TiN and TiO2 thin films were characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy to analyze their chemical, structural, and morphological characteristics, and the combination of these results indicates that the low-cost CCPD technique can be used to produce even and highly crystalline TiN and TiO2 films.
Potential ergogenic activity of grape juice in runners
Authors: Toscano Lydiane Tavares , Tavares Renata Leite , Toscano Luciana Tavares , Silva Cássia Surama Oliveira da , Almeida Antônio Eduardo Monteiro de , Biasoto Aline Camarão Telles , Gonçalves Maria da Conceição Rodrigues , Silva Alexandre Sérgio
Published: May 2015

Recent studies have indicated that certain food products have ergogenic potential similar to that of sports supplements. The present study aimed to investigate the potential ergogenic effect of integral purple grape juice on the performance of recreational runners. Twenty-eight volunteers of both sexes (age, 39.8 ± 8.5 years; peak oxygen consumption, 43.2 ± 8.5 mL/(kg·min)) were randomized into either a group that received grape juice (grape juice group (GJG), n = 15; 10 mL/(kg·min) for 28 days) or a group that received an isocaloric, isoglycemic, and isovolumetric control beverage (control group (CG), n = 13). A time-to-exhaustion exercise test, anaerobic threshold test, and aerobic capacity test were performed, together with assessments of markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, immune response, and muscle injury, performed at baseline and 48 h after the supplementation protocol. The GJG showed a significant increase (15.3%) in running time-to-exhaustion (p = 0.002) without significant improvements in either anaerobic threshold (3.6%; p = 0.511) or aerobic capacity (2.2%; p = 0.605). In addition, GJG exhibited significant increases in total antioxidant capacity (38.7%; p = 0.009), vitamin A (11.8%; p = 0.016), and uric acid (28.2%; p = 0.005), whereas α-1-acid glycoprotein significantly decreased (20.2%; p = 0.006) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels remained unchanged. In contrast, no significant changes occurred in any of these variables in the CG. In conclusion, supplementation with purple grape juice shows an ergogenic effect in recreational runners by promoting increased time-to-exhaustion, accompanied by increased antioxidant activity and a possible reduction in inflammatory markers.
Accurate calculations on 20 Λ–S states of the BP radical: potential energy curves, spectroscopic parameters, and electronic transition properties
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Shi Deheng , Sun Jinfeng
Published: May 2015

The potential energy curves of 20 Λ–S states of BP yeilded from the first two dissociation limits B(2Pu) + P(4Su) and B(2Pu) + P(2Du) have been calculated by the internally contracted multireference configuration interaction approach with the Davidson correction. Especially the core–valence correlation and scalar relativistic corrections are included in the present work. Potential energy curves are also extrapolated to the complete basis set limit. According to the potential energy curves, the spectroscopic parameters are determined and compared with those available in the literature. The convergent behavior of the present calculations is discussed with respect to the basis set and level of theory. Of the 20 states, the 23∑– and 33∑– states have the avoided crossings, which are very weakly bound ones, the 21∑–, and the 13Δ and 23Δ states possess a double well. Subsequently, the transition dipole moments, Franck–Condon factors, and radiative times of the transitions 31Π–b1Π, 23Δ–X3Π, 23∑––A3∑–, 33∑––A3∑–, and 15∑––15Π are calculated.
Variation with slope aspect in effects of temperature on nitrogen mineralization and nitrification in mineral soil of mixed hardwood forests
Authors: Gilliam Frank S. , Galloway Julia E. , Sarmiento Jacob S.
Published: May 2015

This study examined the effects of temperature on soil nitrogen (N) dynamics and variation with slope aspect (northeast (NE) versus southwest (SW)) at two forested sites in West Virginia — Beech Fork Lake (BFL) and Fernow Experimental Forest (FEF) — with similar soil and overstory characteristics but with different latitudes and elevations. Previous work on mineral soil from both sites had shown sharp differences in microbial communities between SW slopes and NE slopes. Mineral soil was sampled from three and eight plots per aspect at FEF and BFL, respectively. Inorganic N was extracted from samples, which were then divided into polyethylene bags for 7-day incubations at 4 °C, 15 °C, 25 °C, and 35 °C. Following incubation, soils were extracted and analyzed for inorganic N. Net N mineralization varied significantly between aspects and temperatures but did not vary between sites; net nitrification varied significantly between aspects, temperatures, and sites. Net N mineralization increased with incubation temperature at all aspects and sites. Net nitrification rates increased with incubation temperature for BFL soils; however, maximum net nitrification rates occurred at 20–25 °C for FEF soils. Net nitrification was essentially undetectable for SW soils at either site. Results underline the complexities of the N cycle in temperate forest ecosystems, representing challenges in predicting alterations in soil N dynamics under conditions of global climate change.
Exponential-Algebraic Maps and Chaos in 3D Autonomous Quadratic Systems
Authors: Belozyorov Vasiliy Ye.
Published: May 2015

For some 3D autonomous quadratic dynamical systems an explicit autonomous exponential-algebraic 1D map, generating chaos in mentioned systems, is designed. Examples of the systems, where chaos is generated by such discrete maps, are given. New results about an existence of chaotic dynamics in the quadratic 3D systems are also derived. Besides, for the Lanford system (it is 3D autonomous quadratic dynamical system) the value of some parameter at which the system shows increased chaotic behavior is indicated. This assertion is based on the construction for the Lanford system of 2D exponential-algebraic discrete map which possesses chaotic properties.
Breaking Points in Quartic Maps
Authors: Romera M. , Pastor G. , Martin A. , Orue A. B. , Montoya F. , Danca M.-F.
Published: May 2015

Dynamical systems, whether continuous or discrete, are used by physicists in order to study nonlinear phenomena. In the case of discrete dynamical systems, one of the most used is the quadratic map depending on a parameter. However, some phenomena can depend alternatively on two values of the same parameter. We use the quadratic map [Formula: see text] when the parameter alternates between two values during the iteration process. In this case, the orbit of the alternate system is the sum of the orbits of two quartic maps. The bifurcation diagrams of these maps present breaking points at which there is an abrupt change in their evolution.
Global Synchronization of a New Chua's System
Authors: Zhou Guopeng , Liu Di , Huang Jinhua , Liao Xiaoxin
Published: May 2015

The problem of global synchronization control for a class of new Chua's system is studied in this paper. Several linear controllers are proposed to realize the global exponential synchronization of two Chua's systems. Decoupling feedback control method is used to make Chua's system global exponential synchronized. Global exponential synchronization with respect to (w.r.t) partial state variables is studied when one of the error variables is zero. Finally, an adaptive synchronization controller is designed to make the response and the driven systems synchronized. Moreover, the estimate errors of the uncertain parameters converge to zero since the persistent excitation condition holds. Additionally, numerical simulations show the effectiveness of the proposed controllers.
Some Bifurcation Analysis in a Family of Nonsmooth Liénard Systems
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Han Maoan , Romanovski Valery G.
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we consider a class of piecewise smooth Liénard systems. We classify the unperturbed system into three types and study the bifurcation of limit cycles under perturbations. By studying the expansions of the first order Melnikov function, we give some new results on the number of limit cycles in homoclinic bifurcations.
A Novel No-Equilibrium Chaotic System with Multiwing Butterfly Attractors
Authors: Tahir Fadhil Rahma , Jafari Sajad , Pham Viet-Thanh , Volos Christos , Wang Xiong
Published: May 2015

Discovering unknown features of no-equilibrium systems with hidden strange attractors is an attractive research topic. This paper presents a novel no-equilibrium chaotic system that is constructed by using a state feedback controller. Interestingly, the new system can exhibit multiwing butterfly attractors. Moreover, a new chaotic system with an infinite number of equilibrium points, which can generate multiscroll attractors, is also proposed by applying the introduced methodology.
A New 6D Hyperchaotic System with Four Positive Lyapunov Exponents Coined
Authors: Yang Qigui , Osman Waleed Mahgoub , Chen Chuntao
Published: May 2015

This paper reports the finding of a new six-dimensional (6D) autonomous hyperchaotic system, which is obtained by coupling a 1D linear system and a 5D hyperchaotic system that is constructed by adding a linear feedback controller and a nonlinear feedback controller to the Lorenz system. This hyperchaotic system has very simple algebraic structure but can exhibit complex dynamical behaviors. Of particular interest is that it has a hyperchaotic attractor with four positive Lyapunov exponents and a unique equilibrium in a large range of parameters. Numerical analysis of phase trajectories, Lyapunov exponents, bifurcation, power spectrum and Poincaré projections verifies the existence of the hyperchaotic and chaotic attractors. In addition, stability of the hyperbolic equilibrium is analyzed and two complete mathematical characterizations for 6D Hopf bifurcation are given.
Virtual braids from a topological viewpoint
Authors: Cisneros de la Cruz Bruno Aaron
Published: May 2015

Virtual braids are a combinatorial generalization of braids. We present abstract braids as equivalence classes of braid diagrams on a surface, joining two distinguished boundary components. They are identified up to isotopy, compatibility, stability and Reidemeister moves. We show that virtual braids are in a bijective correspondence with abstract braids. Finally we demonstrate that for any abstract braid, its representative of minimal genus is unique up to compatibility and Reidemeister moves. The genus of such a representative is thus an invariant for virtual braids. We also give a complete proof of the fact that there is a bijective correspondence between virtually equivalent virtual braid diagrams and braid-Gauss diagrams.
Connectivity by geodesics in open subsets of globally hyperbolic spacetimes
Authors: Bartolo Rossella , Candela Anna Maria , Flores José Luis
Published: May 2015

We discuss the geodesic connectedness problem in open subsets with convex boundary of globally hyperbolic spacetimes endowed with a complete, timelike or lightlike, Killing vector field. Furthermore, we furnish applications to generalized plane waves.
BUSINESS MODEL PATTERNS FOR DISRUPTIVE TECHNOLOGIES
Authors: AMSHOFF BENJAMIN , DÜLME CHRISTIAN , ECHTERFELD JULIAN , GAUSEMEIER JÜRGEN
Published: May 2015

Companies nowadays face a myriad of business opportunities as a direct consequence of manifold disruptive technology developments. As a basic characteristic, disruptive technologies lead to a severe shift in value-creation networks giving rise to new market segments. One of the key challenges is to anticipate the business logics within these nascent and formerly unknown markets. Business model patterns promise to tackle this challenge. They can be interpreted as proven business model elements, which reveal valuable insights about pursued business logics. The approach in general helps increasing efficiency in business models design processes, but especially lacks methodological support so far. The paper at hand, therefore presents a methodology for pattern-based business model design simplifying development and analysis of business models for disruptive technologies. The methodology has been validated within several industrial projects.
Multiscale Modelling of Cancer Progression and Treatment Control: The Role of Intracellular Heterogeneities in Chemotherapy Treatment
Authors: Chaplain Mark A. J. , Powathil Gibin G.
Published: May 2015

Cancer is a complex, multiscale process involving interactions at intracellular, intercellular and tissue scales that are in turn susceptible to microenvironmental changes. Each individual cancer cell within a cancer cell mass is unique, with its own internal cellular pathways and biochemical interactions. These interactions contribute to the functional changes at the cellular and tissue scale, creating a heterogenous cancer cell population. Anticancer drugs are effective in controlling cancer growth by inflicting damage to various target molecules and thereby triggering multiple cellular and intracellular pathways, leading to cell death or cell-cycle arrest. One of the major impediments in the chemotherapy treatment of cancer is drug resistance driven by multiple mechanisms, including multi-drug and cell-cycle mediated resistance to chemotherapy drugs. In this article, we discuss two hybrid multiscale modelling approaches, incorporating multiple interactions involved in the sub-cellular, cellular and microenvironmental levels to study the effects of cell-cycle, phase-specific chemotherapy on the growth and progression of cancer cells.
Electrochemical Analysis of Neurotransmitters
Authors: Bucher Elizabeth S. , Wightman R. Mark
Published: May 2015

Chemical signaling through the release of neurotransmitters into the extracellular space is the primary means of communication between neurons. More than four decades ago, Ralph Adams and his colleagues realized the utility of electrochemical methods for the study of easily oxidizable neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin and their metabolites. Today, electrochemical techniques are frequently coupled to microelectrodes to enable spatially resolved recordings of rapid neurotransmitter dynamics in a variety of biological preparations spanning from single cells to the intact brain of behaving animals. In this review, we provide a basic overview of the principles underlying constant-potential amperometry and fast-scan cyclic voltammetry, the most commonly employed electrochemical techniques, and the general application of these methods to the study of neurotransmission. We thereafter discuss several recent developments in sensor design and experimental methodology that are challenging the current limitations defining the application of electrochemical methods to neurotransmitter measurements.
Defects in the Self-Assembly of Block Copolymers and Their Relevance for Directed Self-Assembly
Authors: Li Weihua , Müller Marcus
Published: May 2015

Block copolymer self-assembly provides a platform for fabricating dense, ordered nanostructures by encoding information in the chemical architecture of multicomponent macromolecules. Depending on the volume fraction of the components and chain topology, these macromolecules form a variety of spatially periodic microphases in thermodynamic equilibrium. The kinetics of self-assembly, however, often results in initial morphologies with defects, and the subsequent ordering is protracted. Different strategies have been devised to direct the self-assembly of copolymer materials by external fields to align and perfect the self-assembled nanostructures. Understanding and controlling the thermodynamics of defects, their response to external fields, and their dynamics is important because applications in microelectronics either require extremely low defect densities or aim at generating specific defects at predetermined locations to fabricate irregular device-oriented structures for integrated circuits. In this review, we discuss defect morphologies of block copolymers in the bulk and thin films, highlighting (a) analogies to and differences from defects in other crystalline materials, (b) the stability of defects and their dynamics, and (c) the influence of external fields.
Entrepreneurship and Financial Frictions: A Macrodevelopment Perspective
Authors: Buera Francisco J. , Kaboski Joseph P. , Shin Yongseok
Published: May 2015

We review both the theoretical and empirical literature on entrepreneurship and financial frictions, with an emphasis on the heterogeneous and dynamic microlevel implications of financial frictions for macrodevelopment.
The US Electricity Industry After 20 Years of Restructuring
Authors: Borenstein Severin , Bushnell James
Published: May 2015

Electricity restructuring in the 1990s ended the era of vertically integrated monopolies in many states, allowing nonutility generators to sell electricity to utilities and, in fewer states, allowing retail service providers to buy electricity from generators and sell to end-use customers. We review the economic arguments for restructuring and the resulting effects in subsequent years. We argue that the greatest political motivation for restructuring was rent shifting, not efficiency improvements. Although electricity restructuring has brought efficiency improvements, it has generally been viewed as a disappointment because the price-reduction promises made by some advocates were based on politically unsustainable rent transfers. In reality, electricity rate changes since restructuring have been driven more by exogenous factors, such as generation technology advances and natural gas price fluctuations, than by restructuring. We argue that a similar dynamic underpins the current political momentum behind distributed generation, primarily rooftop solar photovoltaic systems, which remains costly from a societal viewpoint, but privately economic owing to the rent transfers it enables.
Crime and Economic Incentives
Authors: Draca Mirko , Machin Stephen
Published: May 2015

In economic models of crime, changing economic incentives alter the participation of individuals in criminal activities. We critically appraise the work in this area. After a brief overview of the workhorse economics of crime model for organizing our discussion on crime and economic incentives, we first document the significant rise of the economics of crime as a research field and then go on to review the evidence on the relationship between crime and economic incentives. We divide this discussion into incentives operating through legal wages in the formal labor market and the economic returns to illegal activities. Evidence that economic incentives matter for crime emerges from both.