bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tidal freshwater forest accretion does not keep pace with sea level rise
Authors: Craft Christopher B.
Published: September 2012

Soil properties, accretion, and accumulation were measured in tidal freshwater forests (tidal forests) of the Ogeechee, Altamaha, and Satilla rivers of the South Atlantic (Georgia USA) coast to characterize carbon (C) sequestration and nutrient (nitrogen‐N, phosphorus‐P) accumulation in these understudied, uncommon, and ecologically sensitive wetlands. Carbon sequestration and N and P accumulation also were measured in a tidal forest (South Newport River) that experiences saltwater intrusion to evaluate the effects of sea level rise (SLR) and saltwater intrusion on C, N and P accumulation. Finally, soil accretion and accumulation of tidal forests were compared with tidal fresh, brackish and salt marsh vegetation downstream to gauge how tidal forests may respond to SLR. Soil accretion determined using 137C and 210Pb averaged 1.3 and 2.2 mm yr−1, respectively, and was substantially lower than the recent rate of SLR along the Georgia coast (3.0 mm yr−1). Healthy tidal forest soils sequestered C (49–82 g m−2 yr−1), accumulated N (3.2–5.3 g m−2 yr−1) and P (0.29–0.56 g m−2 yr−1) and trapped mineral sediment (340–650 g m−2 yr−1). There was no difference in long‐term accretion, C sequestration, and nutrient accumulation between healthy tidal forests and tidal forests of the South Newport River that experience saltwater intrusion. Accelerated SLR is likely to lead to decline of tidal forests and expansion of oligohaline and brackish marshes where soil accretion exceeds the current rate of SLR. Conversion of tidal forest to marshes will lead to an increase in the delivery of some ecosystem services such as C sequestration and sediment trapping, but at the expense of other services (e.g. denitrification, migratory songbird habitat). As sea level rises in response to global warming, tidal forests and their delivery of ecosystem services face a tenuous future unless they can migrate upriver, and that is unlikely in most areas because of topographic constraints and increasing urbanization of the coastal zone.
Spatial variations in aboveground net primary productivity along a climate gradient in Eurasian temperate grassland: effects of mean annual precipitation and its seasonal distribution
Authors: Guo Qun , Hu Zhongmin , Li Shenggong , Li Xuanran , Sun Xiaomin , Yu Guirui
Published: September 2012

Concomitant changes of annual precipitation and its seasonal distribution within the context of global climate change have dramatic impacts on aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) of grassland ecosystems. In this study, combining remote sensing products with in situ measurements of ANPP, we quantified the effects of mean annual precipitation (MAP) and precipitation seasonal distribution (PSD) on the spatial variations in ANPP along a climate gradient in Eurasian temperate grassland. Our results indicated that ANPP increased exponentially with MAP for the entire temperate grassland, but linearly for a specific grassland type, i.e. the desert steppe, typical steppe, and meadow steppe from arid to humid regions. The slope of the linear relationship appeared to be steeper in the more humid meadow steppe than that in the drier typical and desert steppes. PSD also had significant effect on the spatial variations in ANPP. It explained 39.4% of the spatial ANPP for the entire grassland investigated, being comparable with the explanatory power of MAP (40.0%). On the other hand, the relative contribution of PSD and MAP is grassland type specific. MAP exhibited a much stronger explanatory power than PSD for the desert steppe and the meadow steppe at the dry and wet end, respectively. However, PSD was the dominant factor affecting the spatial variation in ANPP for the median typical steppe. Our results imply that altered pattern of PSD due to climate change may be as important as the total amount in terms of effects on ANPP in Eurasian temperate grassland.
Atmospheric change alters performance of an invasive forest insect
Authors: Couture John J. , Lindroth Richard L.
Published: September 2012

Atmospheric change and species invasions are arguably two of the most important factors affecting the long‐term sustainability of natural ecosystems. We examined the independent and interactive effects of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) and tropospheric ozone (O3) on the foliar quality of two host species and performance of an invasive folivorous insect. Trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) and paper birch (Betula papyrifera) were grown at the Aspen FACE research site in northern Wisconsin, USA, under all combinations of ambient and elevated CO2 and O3. We measured the effects of elevated CO2 and O3 on aspen and birch phytochemistry and on the survivorship, development time, growth, and fecundity of the gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar). Elevated CO2 had little effect on, whereas elevated O3 altered, the composite phytochemical profiles of aspen and birch. Nutritional quality in aspen and birch leaves was marginally affected by elevated CO2 and reduced by elevated O3. Both gases increased concentrations of phenolic and structural compounds in aspen and birch. Elevated CO2 offset reduced foliar quality under elevated O3, but only in aspen, and to a greater extent later than earlier in spring. Elevated CO2 generally had beneficial effects on, while elevated O3 detrimentally affected, gypsy moth performance. Elevated CO2 ameliorated most of the reductions in gypsy moth performance under elevated O3. Our findings suggest that atmospheric change can alter foliar quality in gypsy moth hosts sufficiently to influence gypsy moth performance, but that these responses will depend on interactions among CO2, O3, and tree species. Our findings also contrast with those of earlier studies at Aspen FACE, indicating that foliar quality responses to environmental change are likely influenced by tree stand age and longevity of exposure to pollutants to the extent that they affect plant‐herbivore interactions differently over decadal time spans.
Predicting cyanobacterial dynamics in the face of global change: the importance of scale and environmental context
Authors: Taranu Zofia E. , Zurawell Ron W. , Pick Frances , Gregory‐Eaves Irene
Published: September 2012

There is growing concern that harmful cyanobacterial blooms are increasing in frequency and occurrence around the world. Although nutrient enrichment is commonly identified as a key predictor of cyanobacterial abundance and dominance in freshwaters, several studies have shown that variables related to climate change can also play an important role. Based on our analysis of the literature, we hypothesized that temperature or water‐column stability will be the primary drivers of cyanobacterial abundance in stratified lakes whereas nutrients will be the stronger predictors in frequently mixing water bodies. To test this hypothesis, as well as quantify the drivers of cyanobacteria over different scales and identify interactions between nutrients and climate‐related variables, we applied linear and nonlinear mixed‐effect modeling techniques to seasonal time‐series data from multiple lakes. We first compared time series of cyanobacterial dominance to a published lake survey and found that the models were similar. Using time‐series data of cyanobacterial biomass, we identified important interactions among nutrients and climate‐related variables; dimictic basin experienced a heightened susceptibility to cyanobacterial blooms under stratified eutrophic conditions, whereas polymictic basins were less sensitive to changes in temperature or stratification. Overall, our results show that due to predictable interactions among nutrients and temperature, polymictic and dimictic lakes are expected to respond differently to future climate warming and eutrophication.
Objective compliance and outcome measures should be used in trials of exercise interventions for Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
Authors: Kindlon Tom
Published: September 2012

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (12): 1360–1361
Patient‐tailored self‐management intervention for older adults with hypertension in a nursing home
Authors: Park Yeon‐Hwan , Chang HeeKyung , Kim JinShil , Kwak Jin Sang
Published: September 2012

Aims and objectives.  This study was to evaluate the effects of a patient‐tailored self‐management intervention on (1) blood pressure control and (2) self‐care behaviour, exercise self‐efficacy and medication adherence among Korean older hypertensive patients in a nursing home.

Background.  Little is known about whether a patient‐tailored self‐management for nursing home residents with hypertension is likely to advance the care of this growing population worldwide.

Design.  A non‐equivalent comparison group design.

Methods.  Forty‐seven patients (23 and 24 in the intervention and comparison groups, respectively) participated in the study. No one withdrew during the eight‐week study period. Hypertensive patients in the intervention group received health education and tailored individual counselling for eight weeks to enhance the self‐management.

Results.  The mean age of patients was 77·4 years. Patients were on hypertensive medications for 11·8 years; only 36 of them took medications without assistance. The baseline comparisons of the patients with and without 8‐week intervention did not differ for clinical and demographic variables and outcome measures. Blood pressure decreased when comparing the baseline to eight weeks later from baseline; moreover, blood pressure was significantly reduced only in patients who received the intervention. Self‐care behaviour and exercise self‐efficacy significantly increased over time only in those who were in the intervention group. However, no significant difference was observed in medication adherence between the two groups.

Conclusions.  Patient‐tailored self‐management intervention was a practical approach for decreasing blood pressure and increasing self‐care behaviour in older hypertensive patients in a nursing home. Further studies are needed to validate these findings using a larger sample with long‐term follow‐up.

Relevance to clinical practice.  A patient‐tailored intervention is feasible not only to empower nursing home residents with hypertension for their care, but also to offer a qualified training and guidelines to nursing home staffs, expanding their professional competence in clinical practice.
Heterozygosity–behaviour correlations in nine‐spined stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) populations: contrasting effects at random and functional loci
Authors: Laine Veronika N. , Herczeg Gábor , Shikano Takahito , Primmer Craig R.
Published: September 2012

The study of heterozygosity‐fitness correlations (HFCs) has a long history in the fields of ecology and evolutionary biology but remains controversial. Recently, it has been shown that the genetic distance of markers from functional loci can be an important factor to be considered in addition to marker numbers and variability. In this study, we investigated the correlation between individual heterozygosity and behaviour (aggression, boldness and feeding activity) in nine‐spined stickleback (Pungitius pungitius) individuals originating from four populations in two contrasting environments. Offspring of full‐sib families raised in a common garden setting were assessed for behaviour and genotyped using 84 microsatellite markers that were either located within or near behaviourally or physiologically important genes (termed ‘functional’) or were randomly selected. No associations were detected with any behavioural trait in any population or over all populations when genetic variability was measured using all 84 markers combined. However, when the markers were separated into three functional categories (behavioural, physiological and random), several significant associations were observed both with functional markers and random markers in one of the four populations assessed. Interestingly, contrasting correlations with behaviour were observed when using physiological gene (negative) and random (positive) markers. Upon dividing the physiological gene markers into further subcategories based on their specific physiological functions, a strong relationship between the heterozygosity of markers linked to osmoregulation‐related genes, and behaviour was revealed in the brackish water population. Our results indicate that both local (physiological) and general (neutral) effects are important in shaping behaviour and that heterozygosity–behaviour correlations are population dependent.
Successive legumes tested in a greenhouse crop rotation experiment modify the inoculum potential of soils naturally infested by Aphanomyces euteiches
Authors: Moussart A. , Even M. N. , Lesné A. , Tivoli B.
Published: September 2012

The consequence of 10 successive monocultural cycles involving different legume species/cultivars on the inoculum potential (IP) of soils naturally infested by Aphanomyces euteiches was investigated under greenhouse conditions. The results showed that the IP of a soil naturally infested by A. euteiches can be significantly modified not only by the non‐host or host status of crop species but also by the level of resistance of the cultivar. Susceptible species/cultivars (pea, lentil and susceptible cultivars of vetch and faba bean) are very favourable to pathogen multiplication, and continuous cultivation of each of these increased the IP values of a soil with a moderate initial IP (from 1·9 to 3·5 after 10 cycles). Conversely, non‐host species and resistant cultivars of vetch or faba bean contributed to reducing the IP values of soils irrespective of the initial IP (from 1·9 to 0·5 and from 4 to 2, respectively, after 10 cycles). Aphanomyces root rot severity values on the resistant legume species/cultivars were not affected by the successive cultural cycles. This study, which showed that the IP of A. euteiches in soil can be reduced by planting appropriate legume species and cultivars in greenhouse conditions, will be useful for defining better crop successions for legumes.
Harden the chloroplast to protect the plant
Authors: Crosatti Cristina , Rizza Fulvia , Badeck Franz W. , Mazzucotelli Elisabetta , Cattivelli Luigi
Published: September 2012

The chloroplast is the central switch of the plant's response to cold and light stress. The ability of many plant species to develop a cold tolerant phenotype is dependent on the presence of light and photosynthetic activity during low‐temperature growth. Light exposure at low temperature stimulates an over‐reduction of the plastoquinone pool as well as the accumulation of reactive oxygen species, and both metabolic conditions generate a retrograde signal controlling nuclear gene expression. At the same time the chloroplast is the target of many cold acclimation processes which are the results of the chloroplast‐nucleus cross‐talk. Often, the extent of cold acclimation of the chloroplast is tightly correlated with the overall plant tolerance to chilling and freezing temperatures, a finding suggesting that the chloroplast cold acclimation could be the rate limiting factor in the adaptation to low temperature.
Nicotiana attenuata α‐DIOXYGENASE1 through its production of 2‐hydroxylinolenic acid is required for intact plant defense expression against attack from Manduca sexta larvae
Authors: Gaquerel Emmanuel , Steppuhn Anke , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: September 2012

Nicotiana attenuata α‐DIOXYGENASE1 (α‐DOX1) is an oxylipin‐forming gene elicited during herbivory by fatty acid amino acid conjugates (FACs) contained in oral secretions of Manduca sexta.

To understand the roles of Naα‐DOX1 and its major product, 2‐hydroxylinolenic acid (2‐hydroxylinolenic acid), in N. attenuata's anti‐herbivore defenses, we used a transgenic line specifically silenced in Naα‐DOX1 expression (ir‐α‐dox1) and monitored 2‐HOT production in M. sexta‐damaged tissues and its role in influencing the production of direct defense compounds and resistance to this insect.

Attack by M. sexta larvae amplified 2‐HOT formation at the feeding sites; a reaction probably facilitated by Naα‐DOX1's high pH optimum which allows 2‐HOT formation to occur in the more alkaline conditions at the feeding sites or potentially in the insect mouth parts after the leaf tissue is ingested. Manduca sexta larvae performed better on ir‐α‐dox1 plants than on wild‐type (WT) plants as a result of attenuated herbivory‐specific JA and 2‐HOT bursts as well as JA‐inducible well‐established defenses (nicotine, caffeoylputrescine and trypsin proteinase inhibitors). Repeated applications of 2‐HOT to wounds before insect feeding partly amplified JA‐controlled defenses and restored the resistance of ir‐α‐dox1 plants.

We conclude that 2‐HOT, produced by attack‐activated α‐DOX1 activity, participates in defense activation during insect feeding.
Silicone Finger Prosthesis. A Clinical Report
Authors: Jacob PC , Shetty Kashinatha HM , Garg Arun , Pal Bhupinder
Published: September 2012

The loss of all or part of a finger following traumatic amputation may have a negative impact on physical and psychological well being. An esthetic prosthesis can offer psychological, functional, and rehabilitative advantages. The success of a prosthetic restoration primarily depends on its retention. This clinical report describes an alternative method of retention by scoring the master cast of a partially amputated finger, thus enhancing the vacuum effect for the retention of the prosthesis. The methodology of treatment is also explained. Silicone material was used to provide function and esthetics.
Predicting the Geographic Distribution of a Species from Presence‐Only Data Subject to Detection Errors
Authors: Dorazio Robert M.
Published: September 2012

Summary Several models have been developed to predict the geographic distribution of a species by combining measurements of covariates of occurrence at locations where the species is known to be present with measurements of the same covariates at other locations where species occurrence status (presence or absence) is unknown. In the absence of species detection errors, spatial point‐process models and binary‐regression models for case‐augmented surveys provide consistent estimators of a species’ geographic distribution without prior knowledge of species prevalence. In addition, these regression models can be modified to produce estimators of species abundance that are asymptotically equivalent to those of the spatial point‐process models. However, if species presence locations are subject to detection errors, neither class of models provides a consistent estimator of covariate effects unless the covariates of species abundance are distinct and independently distributed from the covariates of species detection probability. These analytical results are illustrated using simulation studies of data sets that contain a wide range of presence‐only sample sizes. Analyses of presence‐only data of three avian species observed in a survey of landbirds in western Montana and northern Idaho are compared with site‐occupancy analyses of detections and nondetections of these species.
Synthesis and Mechanical Properties of (Ti,V)2AlC/Al2O3In Situ Solid Solution Composites by Reactive Hot Pressing
Authors: Zhu Jianfeng , Han Na
Published: September 2012

Solid solution composites of (Ti,V)2AlC/Al2O3 were successfully synthesized using the in situ hot‐pressing process by the incorporation of the thermit reaction of Al with V2O5 in Ti, Al, and carbon black system. The phase evolution during the formation of the composites was examined from 500°C to 1350°C, and a possible reaction mechanism was proposed to explain the formation of (Ti,V)2AlC/Al2O3 solid solution composites. The composite with 10 wt% Al2O3 possesses the best mechanical properties and the hardness, flexural strength, and fracture toughness of the composites are enhanced by 53.2%, 140%, and 180%, respectively. The strengthening and toughening mechanisms were also discussed.
High Strength Alumina Micro‐Beams Fabricated by Inkjet Printing
Authors: Philips Noah R. , Compton Brett G. , Begley Matthew R.
Published: September 2012

Freestanding ceramic microbeams were fabricated by inkjet printing of aqueous colloidal suspensions (up to 23 vol% alumina). Their high strength (920 MPa in bending) and stiffness (E ≈ 400 GPa) is attributed to low porosity (void fraction 0.03) and a paucity of microstructural flaws. A range of ink compositions and beam thicknesses were printed using a commercial inkjet cartridge and isostatically compacted prior to firing.
Electrophoretic Deposition of Titania Nanoparticles: Sticking Parameter Determination by an In situ Study of the EPD Kinetics
Authors: Farrokhi‐Rad Morteza , Shahrabi Taghi
Published: September 2012

The suspensions of titania nanoparticles in isopropanol were prepared and triethanolamine (TEA) was used as a dispersant. Electrophoretic deposition (EPD) was performed at 60 and 200 V. In situ EPD kinetics was studied. During the in situ deposition weight recording, the voltage was switched off after 6 min and switched on again after 2 min with a reversed polarity. After voltage switch off the deposition weight decreased with time for the deposits formed from the suspensions with 0, 0.33, 1.33, and 6 mL/L TEA, due to the potential difference generated at the interface between the deposit and suspension, exerting a force on the particles strong enough to detach them into the suspension. The deposition weight remains nearly constant for deposits formed from the suspensions with 8 and 16.33 mL/L TEA, due to the lower potential difference and so the lower force exerted on the particles. It was assumed that particles detachment from deposit into the suspension also occurs during EPD and according to this assumption f factor (sticking parameter) at initial times of EPD was calculated. It was found that the f factor values calculated from the mentioned assumption have a good agreement with those calculated from the Hamaker equation.
Use of dental services throughout middle and early old ages: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Astrom Anne N. , Ekback Gunnar , Nasir Elwalid , Ordell Sven , Unell Lennart
Published: September 2012

Objectives

Focusing on a Swedish 1942 birth cohort, this study describes the trend of dental health care utilization between age 50 and 65 and identifies major determinants of dental visiting habits using Andersen's model as adapted for dentistry as a theoretical framework.

Method

In 1992, a census of 50 year olds in two counties of Sweden was invited to participate in a longitudinal questionnaire survey. Of the total population of 8888 subjects, 6346 responded (71%). Of the 6346 subjects who completed the 1992 survey, 4143 (65%) completed postal follow ups in 1997, 2002 and 2007.

Results

83.3% and 3.2% of the cohort remained stable with respect to use and nonuse of regular dental care. Cochran's Q test revealed that the proportions reporting regular use decreased from 93% at age 50–87% at age 65 (P < 0.001). Generalized estimated equations revealed the following covariates; gender (females), country of birth (native born), marital status (married), perceived quality of dental care (good perceptions), dental care utilization as a child, remaining teeth and perceived oral problems. The influence of the variable time, functioning as a measure of period/ageing, maintained a statistically significant relationship with regular utilization after adjusting for all covariates in the model.

Conclusion

Regular use of dental health care services decreased slightly but statistically significantly from age 50 to 65 and was most prevalent in socio‐economically advantaged groups, among those with remaining own teeth, subjects who perceived oral problems and reported high quality dental care. The results have implications for planning of elderly dental health care and required dental workforce in Sweden and countries with similar welfare systems.
Recovery of Hydroxytyrosol Rich Extract from Two‐Phase Chemlali Olive Pomace by Chemical Treatment
Authors: Rigane Ghayth , Bouaziz Mohamed , Baccar Nidhal , Abidi Samira , Sayadi Sami , Salem Ridha Ben
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  A very simple method is proposed to produce hydroxytyrosol, a commercially unavailable compound with well‐known biological properties which justify a potential commercial application. The 2‐phase Chemlali olive pomace is selected as substrate for chemical treatment. Different conditions of chemical treatment, including concentration of acid and alkaline solutions, time and temperature, were assayed. A high amount of hydroxytyrosol (1360 mg/kg of fresh 2‐phase olive pomace) was obtained using water bath after treatment at 80 °C for 90 min with 1 M of H3PO4. However, treatment of 2‐phase Chemlali olive pomace using autoclave apparatus could produce a large amount of hydroxytyrosol (1993.60 and 1515.88 mg/kg of fresh alperujo, 1 M acid and basic catalyst, respectively). By taking into consideration practical and economic aspects, acid‐catalyzed treatment was more effective using autoclave conditions, whereas the alkali catalyzed conditions were not very suitable. This study could provide useful information for industry to produce the potentially bioactive compound.

Practical Application:  The 2‐phase Chemlali olive pomace is selected as substrate for chemical treatment. Treatment of “alperujo” using water bath or autoclave apparatus was carried out. A high amount of hydroxytyrosol was obtained using autoclave apparatus.
The Effectiveness of Antibrowning Dip Treatments to Reduce After‐Cooking Darkening in Potatoes
Authors: Calder Beth L. , Cowles Emily A. , Davis‐Dentici Katherine , Bushway Alfred A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  After‐cooking darkening (ACD) is an inherent and undesirable trait that develops in cooked potatoes. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of sodium acid sulfate (SAS) dip treatments compared to other antigraying treatments and a control to reduce ACD in boiled, Katahdin potatoes. Dip treatments were applied for 3 min prior to boiling and included: 3% SAS, 3% citric acid (CA), 3% sodium acid pyrophosphate (SAPP), along with a distilled water control. SAS‐ and CA‐treated potatoes had slightly, but significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher b* and chroma values, which indicates a more intense yellow potato color, with less graying, compared to the control. SAS‐ and CA‐treated potatoes also had significantly (P≤ 0.001) lower pH values for inner and outer potato surfaces than the control. No significant (P > 0.05) differences were detected for total phenolic or mineral contents among treatments. CA and SAPP samples had slightly, but significantly (P≤ 0.05) higher moisture contents than the control. Sensory test results showed no significant differences for color, aftertaste, or overall acceptability. However, CA‐treated samples were rated significantly (P≤ 0.05) lower for flavor than all other treatments and panelists commented on sour notes. CA‐ and SAS‐treated potatoes were scored slightly, but significantly lower for texture than other treatments due to a waxy outer layer. However, SAS was the most acidic dip treatment, but did not significantly affect flavor. Overall, results suggest that SAS was similarly accepted by consumers in comparison to CA and SAPP, which is the industry standard to reduce ACD.

Practical Application:  After‐cooking darkening (ACD) is an undesirable potato trait that occurs after potatoes have been processed. Sodium acid pyrophosphate (SAPP) has been used as the industry standard to reduce ACD. Sodium acid sulfate (SAS) treatments prior to boiling appeared to be comparable to SAPP and citric acid in effectiveness to reduce ACD. SAS did not negatively affect the flavor of boiled potato samples according to sensory results. The SAS treatment may be more beneficial for potatoes intended for potato salad products.
Evaluation of a Modified pH‐Shift Process to Reduce 2‐Methylisoborneol and Geosmin in Spiked Catfish and Produce a Consumer Acceptable Fried Catfish Nugget‐Like Product
Authors: Brown T.M. , Cerruto‐Noya C.A. , Schrader K.K. , Kleinholz C.W. , Mireles DeWitt C.A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Muddy and/or musty off‐flavors in farmed‐raised catfish occur as a result of the absorption of geosmin (GEO) and 2‐methylisoborneol (MIB), compounds produced by algae. Previous research suggests the acid pH‐shift method may be able to reduce off‐flavors to produce a consumer acceptable product. The objective of this research was to evaluate application of the acid pH‐shift method using a shaker sieve for protein recovery and to evaluate consumer acceptability of a resultant batter‐coated fried nugget‐like catfish product. Farm‐raised catfish were either allowed to depurate (control) or treated with 1 ppb GEO or MIB. Fillets from each replicate were collected and ground and treated by the acid pH‐shift process. Samples from all treatments and replicates were evaluated for residual GEO and MIB. In addition, batter‐coated fried catfish samples were prepared for a consumer sensory evaluation. Results demonstrated that the pH‐shift process decreased moisture, ash, and collagen content of catfish fillet tissue (P < 0.05). Flavor of control samples was preferred (P < 0.05). Texture of catfish samples treated by the pH‐shift process was preferred (P < 0.05). Results demonstrate the pH‐shift process can be utilized to reduce off‐flavors and increase the acceptability of a processed catfish product.

Practical Application:  Use of a sieve as an economic alternative for the pH‐shift process was evaluated for removing off‐flavors from catfish. Difficulties were encountered with regard to protein recovery using the sieve and suggestions are made to, perhaps, make the process more applicable for a sieve‐based recovery step. The process as described reduced off‐flavors, but only 2‐fold suggesting the process would work best on catfish near or just over off‐flavor thresholds. Results also indicated the pH‐shift process could be used to improve texture of a fried catfish product designed to be similar to chicken nuggets.
Variation in corneal hysteresis and central corneal thickness among black, hispanic and white subjects
Authors: Haseltine Sarah J. , Pae Jennis , Ehrlich Joshua R. , Shammas Maya , Radcliffe Nathan M.
Published: September 2012

Purpose:  To determine whether differences in corneal hysteresis (CH) and central corneal thickness (CCT) between black, Hispanic and white subjects exist independently of one another.

Methods:  Retrospective, cross‐sectional data were reviewed for 807 eyes of 410 patients consecutively evaluated for glaucoma. Included patients had open angles, at least one reliable 24‐2 perimetric examination and no evidence of nonglaucomatous vision loss. Patients underwent CH measurement with the ocular response analyzer followed by CCT measurement and full ocular examination. Patients were asked to self‐classify their race or ethnicity. Statistical analyses were performed to identify characteristics that varied between black, Hispanic and white subjects and to explain this variation.

Results:  Of the 270 patients (511 eyes) included, 84 were black, 96 Hispanic and 90 white. There were no significant differences in diagnosis, sex, age, intraocular pressure or glaucoma severity between races/ethnicities (p ≥ 0.16). Blacks were found to have lower CCT (529.3 μm) and CH (8.7 mmHg) compared to Hispanics (544.7 μm, p = 0.008; 9.4 mmHg, p = 0.007) and whites (549.9 μm, p < 0.001; 9.8 mmHg, p < 0.001). On multivariable analysis, inter‐racial/ethnic differences in CCT were not found to exist independent of CH (p ≥ 0.10), whereas the significant intergroup variation in CH remained after adjustment for CCT and other covariates (p ≤ 0.005).

Conclusions:  Variation in CCT between races/ethnicities does not exist independent of CH. However, significant intergroup variation in CH is present independent of CCT. This finding suggests that CH may be a preferable measurement to evaluate intergroup differences in corneal properties and their relationship to open‐angle glaucoma.
Activation of retinal microglial cells is not associated with Müller cell reactivity in vitrectomized rabbit eyes
Authors: Ulbricht Elke , Pannicke Thomas , Uhlmann Susann , Wiedemann Peter , Reichenbach Andreas , Francke Mike
Published: September 2012

Purpose:  Vitrectomy is a frequently performed surgical intervention in ophthalmology to remove vitreous traction and opacities or to treat complicated retinal detachments and diabetic changes. However, there is lack of information about cellular responses in retinal tissue after a surgical intervention such as vitrectomy. Microglia cells, the immune competent cells of neuronal tissue, are involved in nearly all neuropathological changes and are additionally activated by neurosurgical interventions. For most neurodegenerative changes, it is described that microglia activation is generally accompanied by a reactive gliosis of macroglial cells. However, it is not known whether microglial cell activation is necessarily associated with macroglial cell gliosis or whether these processes are regulated separately. Furthermore, there is an ongoing debate about possible detrimental consequences of microglial cell activation for neurons in central neural and retinal tissue.

Methods:  Using immunohistochemistry and whole‐cell patch clamp experiments in a rabbit model of partial pars plana vitrectomy, we investigated micro‐ and macroglial cell reactivity after this intervention.

Results:  Partial vitrectomy induced a massive microglia response characterized by morphological changes, intraretinal migration and proliferation of retinal microglial cells, respectively. Microglial cell reactivity was observed 2 days after the operation and was down‐regulated after 7 days. Microglia reactivity was associated with neither a general Müller cell gliosis nor an obvious neuronal cell loss. Electrophysiological examinations revealed no significant changes of whole‐cell currents and membrane potentials of Müller cells from healthy and vitrectomized eyes up to 3 weeks after operation. Only a small number of individual Müller glial cells expressed GFAP or reduced their inward currents as a sign of Müller cell gliosis.

Conclusion:  Vitrectomy induced a massive response of microglial cells. However, microglia activation and deactivation are effectively regulated and are not necessarily associated with macroglial (Müller) cell reactivity and with obvious detrimental effects to neurons.
Are There Gender‐Specific Risk Factors for Suicidal Activity among Patients with Schizophrenia and Depression?
Authors: Kaplan Kalman J. , Harrow Martin , Faull Robert N.
Published: September 2012

Are there gender‐specific risk factors for suicidal activity among patients with schizophrenia and depression? A total of 74 schizophrenia patients (51 men, 23 women) and 77 unipolar nonpsychotic depressed patients (26 men, 51 women) from the Chicago Follow‐up Study were studied prospectively at 2 years posthospitalization and again at 7.5 years. Poor early posthospital global functioning is significantly associated with later suicidal activity only for men in both our schizophrenia and depressive samples. Early display of psychotic symptoms is associated with later suicidal activity among male schizophrenia patients. Early cognitive impairment is not significantly associated with later suicidal activity for any of the four groups of patients. The study results must be seen as exploratory and will hopefully spur future research on this important topic.
Association of salivary levels of the bone remodelling regulators sRANKL and OPG with periodontal clinical status
Authors: Tobón‐Arroyave Sergio I. , Isaza‐Guzmán Diana M. , Restrepo‐Cadavid Eliana M. , Zapata‐Molina Sandra M. , Martínez‐Pabón María C.
Published: September 2012

Aim

To determine the variations in salivary concentrations of sRANKL, osteoprotegerin (OPG) and its ratio, regarding the periodontal status.

Materials and Methods

Ninety‐seven chronic periodontitis (CP) subjects and 43 healthy controls were selected. Periodontal status was assessed based on full‐mouth clinical periodontal measurements. sRANKL and OPG salivary levels were analysed by ELISA. The association between these analytes and its ratio with CP was analysed individually and adjusted for confounding using a binary logistic regression model.

Results

sRANKL and sRANKL/OPG ratio were increased, whereas OPG was decreased in CP compared with healthy controls subjects. Although univariate analysis revealed a positive association of sRANKL salivary levels ≥6 pg/ml, OPG salivary levels ≤131 pg/ml and sRANKL/OPG ratio ≥0.062 with CP, after logistic regression analysis only the latter parameter was strongly and independently associated with disease status. Confounding and interaction effects of ageing and smoking habit on sRANKL and OPG levels could be noted.

Conclusion

Although salivary concentrations of sRANKL, OPG and its ratio may act as indicators of the amount/extent of periodontal breakdown, the mutual confounding and synergistic biological interactive effects related to ageing and smoking habit of the susceptible host may also promote the tissue destruction in CP.
Efficient gene expression profiling of laser‐microdissected melanoma metastases
Authors: Makhzami Samira , Rambow Florian , Delmas Veronique , Larue Lionel
Published: September 2012

Comparing the transcriptomes of primary and metastatic tumour tissues is a useful strategy for studying tumour progression. One factor limiting the interpretation of tissue‐based transcriptomic data is the lack of cell‐type purity. Laser capture microdissection (LCM) has been shown to be useful for overcoming this limitation. We established an efficient protocol for gene expression profiling of LCM and matched metastatic melanomas using a transgenic mouse model. This optimized workflow combines microsurgical recovery of mouse lungs, appropriate tissue freezing, laser microdissection of homogeneous tumour cell populations from cryosections, isolation of high‐quality RNA and gene expression analysis. The RNA isolated from laser‐microdissected material was not contaminated by stroma cells, was of excellent quality, and the synthesis of cDNAs was homogeneous and highly reproducible. Subsequent custom‐based Taqman‐low‐density‐array (TLDA)‐based gene expression profiling identified stronger expression of five genes (M‐MITF, TYR, STAT3, CCND1 and PAX3) in primary than metastatic melanoma. We detected only minor transcriptomic differences between primary and metastatic melanoma tissue. This optimized workflow could be very valuable for various studies requiring cell type–specific transcriptomic analysis.
On the Relationship Between Fuel Injection Pressure and Two-Stage Ignition Behavior of Low Temperature Diesel Combustion
Authors: Bittle J. A. , Jacobs T. J.
Published: September 2012

In previous work, it is reported that increased dilution at midrange injection pressures produces longer first stage combustion duration. There is also corresponding decreases in nitric oxide concentrations and smoke number with respect to a reference conventional combustion mode. Continuing this effort, the objective of this study is to investigate the effect of injection pressure on the first stage ignition duration under low temperature combustion (LTC) conditions. A sweep of injection pressure is performed and the resulting heat (energy) release profiles are examined. The ignition delay behavior is expected based on changing injection pressure, but the first stage ignition duration does not follow expected trends based on initial literature review. It is postulated that the influence of injection pressure on the local equivalence ratios is causing the observed behavior. The appropriate measurement and analysis tools are not available to the authors to confirm this postulation. A literature review of work investigating ignition conditions in low temperature combustion modes is used to support the postulation made in this study.
Heat Transfer Analysis for a Small-Size Direct-Flow Coaxial Concentrating Collector
Authors: Alberti Fabrizio , Crema Luigi , Bozzoli Alessandro
Published: September 2012

A coaxial evacuated solar tube has been analyzed. The tube is included in a small-scale concentrated solar power (CSP) system, which runs a cogeneration Stirling engine unit. The engine provides electricity and at the same time generates hot water for heating and sanitary purposes, by cooling down the compression cylinder. The present work is focused on the thermodynamic characterization for a forced-flow in the coaxial evacuated tube, which can heat thermal oil up to 300 °C, when coupled with a parabolic trough collector. The single coaxial tube is 2 m long, it has one glass penetration, it is provided with a glass–metal seal and it has an absorber tube in the focal point with a diameter of 12 mm. A model based on heat transfer analysis coupled with fluid dynamic is presented and discussed. The model is then used to investigate spatial temperature profiles and thermal behaviors for the whole solar collector. It improves previous works in the field of concentrating solar collectors and covers the research in small-size concentrating system using thermal oil as heat transfer fluid.
A Semantic Association Hardware Acceleration System for Integrated Product Data Management
Authors: Lane Thames J. , Eck Oliver , Schaefer Dirk
Published: September 2012

Many modern products are complex systems comprised of highly integrated mechanical, electrical, electronic, and software components, which are commonly known as mechatronic systems. Similarly, product data and life-cycle management systems that support the engineering and design of mechatronic systems are becoming complex and need to store, retrieve, and process vast amounts of files associated with mechatronic products. For many years, software developers and computer architects have benefited by continuous increases in computational performance, as predicted by Moore's law. However, issues such as extreme power consumption have begun to limit certain types of performance increases such as hardware clock rates. In an effort to find new ways to increase computational performance, engineers and computer scientists have been investigating new techniques such as hardware acceleration systems, reconfigurable computing, and heterogeneous computing (HC). In light of these emerging computational paradigms, this paper introduces a semantic association hardware acceleration system for integrated product data management (PDM) based on semantic file systems. The concept of semantic path merger (SPM) is described along with a discussion of its realization as a hardware-based associative memory for accelerated semantic file retrieval. The energy and retrieval performance metrics of the proposed hardware system is given along with its comparative analysis with the industry standard content addressable memory (CAM). The goal of the proposed system is to enhance the state-of-art for the field of heterogeneous computing within the scope of computational platforms for design and engineering applications.
New method of calculating adsorption and scattering for Xe-Pt(111) using Direct Simulation Monte Carlo techniques
Authors: Bentley Brook I. , Greendyke Robert B.
Published: September 2012

A new scheme is presented for calculating adsorption and scattering for a gas–surface system in the thermal scattering regime using Direct Simulation Monte Carlo techniques. Results are compared with experimental data for the Xe-Pt(111) gas–surface system at surface temperatures of 95 K (adsorption) and 800 K (scattering). Fair agreement is found for the initial adsorption probability, while good agreement is found for the adsorption probability versus coverage. When implemented with the Cercignani–Lampis–Lord scattering kernel, the new scheme was found to improve scattering properties. Any scattering kernel or method amenable to Direct Simulation Monte Carlo techniques may be applied with the new scheme. Optimal values of accommodation coefficients were also found for the surface (αn = 0.74, αt = 0.60) and the adlayer (αn,ad = 0.89, αt,ad = 0.60).
A High-Coverage Genome Sequence from an Archaic Denisovan Individual
Authors: Meyer Matthias , Kircher Martin , Gansauge Marie-Theres , Li Heng , Racimo Fernando , Mallick Swapan , Schraiber Joshua G. , Jay Flora , Prüfer Kay , de Filippo Cesare , Sudmant Peter H. , Alkan Can , Fu Qiaomei , Do Ron , Rohland Nadin , Tandon Arti , Siebauer Michael , Green Richard E. , Bryc Katarzyna , Briggs Adrian W. , Stenzel Udo , Dabney Jesse , Shendure Jay , Kitzman Jacob , Hammer Michael F. , Shunkov Michael V. , Derevianko Anatoli P. , Patterson Nick , Andrés Aida M. , Eichler Evan E. , Slatkin Montgomery , Reich David , Kelso Janet , Pääbo Svante
Published: September 2012

Ancient Genomics

The Denisovans were archaic humans closely related to Neandertals, whose populations overlapped with the ancestors of modern-day humans. Using a single-stranded library preparation method,

Meyer
et al.

(p.
222
, published online 30 August) provide a detailed analysis of a high-quality Denisovan genome. The genomic sequence provides evidence for very low rates of heterozygosity in the Denisova, probably not because of recent inbreeding, but instead because of a small population size. The genome sequence also illuminates the relationships between humans and archaics, including Neandertals, and establishes a catalog of genetic changes within the human lineage.
Processing and Subcellular Trafficking of ER-Tethered EIN2 Control Response to Ethylene Gas
Authors: Qiao Hong , Shen Zhouxin , Huang Shao-shan Carol , Schmitz Robert J. , Urich Mark A. , Briggs Steven P. , Ecker Joseph R.
Published: September 2012

Cleave and Leave

Plants produce ethylene gas, which acts as a hormone and is essential for the ripening of fruit, the resistance of plants to pathogens, the adaptation of plants to stress conditions, and stem cell maintenance. Although many components of the ethylene gas signaling pathway have been well studied, little is known about how the ethylene receptors located in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane can transmit the signal to the nucleus. Studying
Arabidopsis
,

Qiao
et al.

(p.
390
, published online 30 August) found that perception of ethylene gas in the ER promotes signal transduction via cleavage and rapid ER-nucleus translocation of the cytosolic portion of the transmembrane ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE2 protein, which activates ethylene-dependent gene expression and other ethylene response phenotypes in plants.
Transcriptional Architecture and Chromatin Landscape of the Core Circadian Clock in Mammals
Authors: Koike Nobuya , Yoo Seung-Hee , Huang Hung-Chung , Kumar Vivek , Lee Choogon , Kim Tae-Kyung , Takahashi Joseph S.
Published: September 2012

Transcription Around the Clock

The biological clock that controls daily rhythms in mammalian physiology and behavior is thought to be regulated in large part by transcriptional events (see the Perspective by

Doherty and Kay

).

Koike
et al.

(p.
349
; published online 30 August) produced a comprehensive analysis of these transcriptional events across the entire mouse liver genome over a 24-hour period. Only ∼22% of cycling messenger RNA transcripts were driven by de novo transcription, suggesting that posttranscriptional events also play an important regulatory role in the mammalian clock. Biological timing in organisms can also respond to rhythmic cues from the environment.

Morf
et al.

(p.
379
, published online 23 August) explored how one such cue, cycles in ambient temperature, influence circadian timing in mammalian cells. Cold-inducible RNA–binding protein (CIRP) accumulates when body temperature is low. A systematic search for binding partners of CIRP identified RNA encoding core components of the circadian clock. Loss of CIRP decreased the amplitude of circadian gene expression and cells lacking CIRP adapted more quickly to temperature cycles.