bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High power millimeter wave experiment of ITER relevant electron cyclotron heating and current drive system
Authors: Takahashi K. , Kajiwara K. , Oda Y. , Kasugai A. , Kobayashi N. , Sakamoto K. , Doane J. , Olstad R. , Henderson M.
Published: June 2011

High power, long pulse millimeter (mm) wave experiments of the RF test stand (RFTS) of Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) were performed. The system consists of a 1 MW/170 GHz gyrotron, a long and short distance transmission line (TL), and an equatorial launcher (EL) mock-up. The RFTS has an ITER-relevant configuration, i.e., consisted by a 1 MW-170 GHz gyrotron, a mm wave TL, and an EL mock-up. The TL is composed of a matching optics unit, evacuated circular corrugated waveguides, 6-miter bends, an in-line waveguide switch, and an isolation valve. The EL-mock-up is fabricated according to the current design of the ITER launcher. The Gaussian-like beam radiation with the steering capability of 20°–40° from the EL mock-up was also successfully proved. The high power, long pulse power transmission test was conducted with the metallic load replaced by the EL mock-up, and the transmission of 1 MW/800 s and 0.5 MW/1000 s was successfully demonstrated with no arcing and no damages. The transmission efficiency of the TL was 96%. The results prove the feasibility of the ITER electron cyclotron heating and current drive system.
Quantum effects in energy and charge transfer in an artificial photosynthetic complex
Authors: Ghosh Pulak Kumar , Smirnov Anatoly Yu. , Nori Franco
Published: June 2011

We investigate the quantum dynamics of energy and charge transfer in a wheel-shaped artificial photosynthetic antenna-reaction center complex. This complex consists of six light-harvesting chromophores and an electron-acceptor fullerene. To describe quantum effects on a femtosecond time scale, we derive the set of exact non-Markovian equations for the Heisenberg operators of this photosynthetic complex in contact with a Gaussian heat bath. With these equations we can analyze the regime of strong system-bath interactions, where reorganization energies are of the order of the intersite exciton couplings. We show that the energy of the initially excited antenna chromophores is efficiently funneled to the porphyrin-fullerene reaction center, where a charge-separated state is set up in a few picoseconds, with a quantum yield of the order of 95%. In the single-exciton regime, with one antenna chromophore being initially excited, we observe quantum beatings of energy between two resonant antenna chromophores with a decoherence time of ∼100 fs. We also analyze the double-exciton regime, when two porphyrin molecules involved in the reaction center are initially excited. In this regime we obtain pronounced quantum oscillations of the charge on the fullerene molecule with a decoherence time of about 20 fs (at liquid nitrogen temperatures). These results show a way to directly detect quantum effects in artificial photosynthetic systems.
Non-linear dynamics of the photodissociation of nitrous oxide: Equilibrium points, periodic orbits, and transition states
Authors: Mauguiere Frederic , Farantos Stavros C. , Suarez Jaime , Schinke Reinhard
Published: June 2011

The diffuse vibrational bands, observed in the ultraviolet photodissociation spectrum of nitrous oxide by exciting the molecule in the first 1A′ state, have recently been attributed to resonances localized mainly in the NN stretch and bend degrees of freedom. To further investigate the origin of this localization, fundamental families of periodic orbits emanating from several stationary points of the 1A′ potential energy surface and bifurcations of them are computed. We demonstrate that center-saddle bifurcations of periodic orbits are the main mechanism for creating stable regions in phase space that can support the partial trapping of the wave packet, and thus they explain the observed spectra. A non-linear mechanical methodology, which involves the calculation of equilibria, periodic orbits, and transition states in normal form coordinates, is applied for an in detail exploration of phase space. The fingerprints of the phase space structures in the quantum world are identified by solving the time dependent Schrödinger equation and calculating autocorrelation functions. This demonstrates that different reaction channels could be controlled if exact knowledge of the phase space structure is available to guide the initial excitation of the molecule.
Coinage metal (4, 4) nanotubes, simulated by first-principles calculations
Authors: Fa Wei , Zhou Jian , Dong Jinming , Kawazoe Y.
Published: June 2011

The structural stability of coinage metal nanotubes with a square cross-section has been investigated by the first-principles numerical simulations. In addition to the reported (4, 4) silver tube, it is found that the hollow (4, 4) copper and gold nanotubes can also be formed by applying an appropriate stress to an 8A/8B fcc wire. The stability of these coinage metal (4, 4) nanotubes, formed by tip-stretching the wires, has been explained by a local minimum in the string tension variation with their tube lengths. Interestingly, we have explained why a low-stress stretching is needed to obtain the (4, 4) Cu tube in contrast to a higher one for both the (4, 4) Ag and Au tubes due to the larger stiffness coefficient of copper than those of silver and gold, which could be proved by future experiments.
Snyder noncommutativity and pseudo-Hermitian Hamiltonians from a Jordanian twist
Authors: Castro P. G. , Kullock R. , Toppan F.
Published: June 2011

Nonrelativistic quantum mechanics and conformal quantum mechanics are deformed through a Jordanian twist. The deformed space coordinates satisfy the Snyder noncommutativity. The resulting deformed Hamiltonians are pseudo-Hermitian Hamiltonians of the type discussed by Mostafazadeh. The quantization scheme makes use of the so-called “unfolded formalism” discussed in previous works. A Hopf algebra structure, compatible with the physical interpretation of the coproduct, is introduced for the universal enveloping algebra of a suitably chosen dynamical Lie algebra (the Hamiltonian is contained among its generators). The multi-particle sector, uniquely determined by the deformed two-particle Hamiltonian, is composed of bosonic particles.
Detecting variation in chaotic attractors
Authors: Carroll T. L.
Published: June 2011

If the output of an experiment is a chaotic signal, it may be useful to detect small changes in the signal, but there are a limited number of ways to compare signals from chaotic systems, and most known methods are not robust in the presence of noise. One may calculate dimension or Lyapunov exponents from the signal, or construct a synchronizing model, but all of these are only useful in low noise situations. I introduce a method for detecting small variations in a chaotic attractor based on directly calculating the difference between vector fields in phase space. The differences are found by comparing close strands in phase space, rather than close neighbors. The use of strands makes the method more robust to noise and more sensitive to small attractor differences.
Absorption of surface acoustic waves by graphene
Authors: Zhang S. H. , Xu W.
Published: June 2011

We present a theoretical study on interactions of electrons in graphene with surface acoustic waves (SAWs). We find that owing to momentum and energy conservation laws, the electronic transition accompanied by the SAW absorption cannot be achieved via inter-band transition channels in graphene. For graphene, strong absorption of SAWs can be observed in a wide frequency range up to terahertz at room temperature. The intensity of SAW absorption by graphene depends strongly on temperature and can be adjusted by changing the carrier density. This study is relevant to the exploration of the acoustic properties of graphene and to the application of graphene as frequency-tunable SAW devices.
Communication: A new spectroscopic window on hydroxyl radicals using UV + VUV resonant ionization
Authors: Beames Joseph M. , Liu Fang , Lester Marsha I. , Murray Craig
Published: June 2011

A 1 + 1′ multiphoton ionization (MPI) detection scheme for OH radicals is presented. The spectroscopic approach combines initial excitation on the well-characterized A2Σ+–X2Π band system with vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) ionization via autoionizing Rydberg states that converge on the OH+ A3Π ion state. Jet-cooled MPI spectra on the (1,0) and (2,0) bands show anomalous rotational line intensities, while initial excitation on the (0,0) band does not lead to detectable OH+ ions. The onset of ionization with the (1,0) band is attributed to an energetic threshold; the combined UV + VUV photon energies are above the first member of the autoionizing (A3Π)nd Rydberg series. Comparison of the OH 1 + 1′ MPI signal with that from single photon VUV ionization of NO indicates that the cross section for photoionization from OH A2Σ+, v′ = 1 is on the order of 10−17 cm2.
Modulation of capillary condensation by trace component
Authors: Zhou Shiqi
Published: June 2011

Impact of trace component on capillary condensation (CC) is investigated systematically using a classical density functional theory. It is discovered that (i) presence of the trace component makes the CC to occur at much lower condensation pressure than when its absence; (ii) Lennard-Jones potential parameters like size parameter and energy parameter of the trace component, and its concentration in the bulk adsorption system, show their effects the most remarkably within a particular range beyond which the effects eventually become insignificant. The present discoveries have implications in low pressure storage of gases, separation and enrichment of low concentration component, and easy control of CC transition, etc.
Wet-season effects on the distribution of juvenile pigeye sharks, Carcharhinus amboinensis, in tropical nearshore waters
Authors: Knip Danielle M. , Heupel Michelle R. , Simpfendorfer Colin A. , Tobin Andrew J. , Moloney James
Published: June 2011

Tropical nearshore environments are highly dynamic systems owing to extreme freshwater flow and flooding episodes that occur in wet-season months. We hypothesised that juvenile sharks in tropical nearshore waters respond to seasonal freshwater inflow by moving away from areas of strong flow. An array of fifty-eight acoustic receivers deployed in Cleveland Bay, north Queensland, Australia, passively tracked thirty-two juvenile pigeye sharks, Carcharhinus amboinensis, throughout two wet seasons from 2008 to 2010. Influences associated with wet seasons appeared to play a role in habitat use by juvenile C. amboinensis in this region. Home ranges and distribution of individuals showed distinct changes, with individuals moving north away from sources of freshwater inflow during high flows. The location of individuals within the bay was strongly influenced by freshwater inflow in both years. Although juvenile C. amboinensis moved in response to freshwater inflow, home-range sizes remained stable, and the amount of space individuals used did not change in relation to freshwater inflow. By defining the response of juvenile sharks to highly variable freshwater flow events, this research provides useful information for understanding species behaviour in a dynamic and changing climate, and contributes towards effective management of tropical river systems.
Business partner or simple catch? The economic value of the sicklefin lemon shark in French Polynesia
Authors: Clua E. , Buray N. , Legendre P. , Mourier J. , Planes S.
Published: June 2011

Most arguments invoked so far by the scientific community in favour of shark conservation rely on the ecological importance of sharks, and have little impact on management policies. During a 57-month study, we were able to individually recognise 39 sicklefin lemon sharks that support a shark-feeding ecotourism activity in Moorea Island, French Polynesia. We calculated the direct global revenue generated by the provisioning site, based on the expenses of local and international divers. The total yearly revenue was around USD5.4 million and the 13 sharks most often observed at the site had an average contribution each of around USD316 699. Any one of these sharks represents a potential contribution of USD2.64 million during its life span. We argue that publicising economic values per individual will be more effective than general declarations about their ecological importance for convincing policy makers and fishers that a live shark is more valuable than a dead shark for the local economy. Studies monitoring the potential negative ecological effects of long-term feeding of sharks should, however, be conducted to ensure these are also considered. Besides declarations about the non-consumptive direct-use value of sharks, as promoted by ecotourism, the calculation of their other economic values should also benefit shark conservation.
Reef-use and residency patterns of a baited population of silky sharks, Carcharhinus falciformis, in the Red Sea
Authors: Clarke C. , Lea J. S. E. , Ormond R. F. G.
Published: June 2011

Many shark populations are experiencing critical declines from overfishing, triggering potentially detrimental cascade effects on marine ecosystems. Silky sharks, Carcharhinus falciformis, have experienced some of the most severe declines, yet little information exists on their behavioural ecology to inform management decisions. In the present study, the movement patterns of a sexually segregated subpopulation of female silky sharks on reefs in the Central Red Sea were investigated using acoustic telemetry to characterise habitat-use and residency patterns. Frequent baiting of sharks at a particular reef-site significantly increased time spent in the vicinity, although no increases in use of other reef areas 5–10 and 50–60 km away were recorded, and regular use of all three reef areas persisted in the absence of bait. Observed residency patterns varied considerably, from being present almost year-round to visiting only intermittently. The sharks spent significantly longer times at study reefs during daylight hours, even within bait-free regions, suggesting the diel bias is normal. This pattern became less distinct nearer the full moon when there is more ambient light. The regular, perennial use of these reefs by mature and near-mature female silky sharks highlights the importance of this habitat in the Red Sea for recruitment into the local shark population.
Self-Orientalization and Dislocation: The Uses and Abuses of the “Aryan” Discourse in Iran
Authors: Zia-Ebrahimi Reza
Published: June 2011

The claim to belong to the “Aryan race,” believed to be rooted in the ancient self-designationariya, is a fundamental pillar of the Iranian nationalist discourse. This paper aims to show that in fact it is a twentieth-century import from Europe, where after being instrumentalized for colonial endeavors and Nazi atrocities, it has become almost completely discredited. Yet Iranians continue to nonchalantly refer to themselves as Aryans and the myth of the “land of Aryans” persists, even in academic circles. It will be argued that the reason for this resilience is the specific role Aryanism plays in Iranian identity politics, and the strategies designed to manage the trauma of the encounter with Europe.

“From father to father… Of the Aryan race…”

Àriyàyi nezhàd(of the Aryan race), Pop song by Shakila & Shahryar, 20091
Fast gas heating in a nitrogen–oxygen discharge plasma: I. Kinetic mechanism
Authors: Popov N A
Published: June 2011

A model of fast heating of nitrogen–oxygen mixtures excited by a gas discharge in a broad range of reduced electric fields E/N is presented. It is shown that in air at E/N ⩽ 200 Td the main contribution to gas heating occurs due to dissociation reactions by electron impact of O2 molecules and due to processes of quenching of electronically excited N2(B 
3Πg, C 
3Πu,
) molecules by oxygen and excited O(1D) atoms by nitrogen. At E/N > 400 Td, dissociation reactions by electron impact of N2 molecules are dominant as well as the processes involving charged particles. The fraction of discharge energy converted to fast gas heating does not exceed 40%. An analysis of the experimental data on fast air heating in discharges at high reduced electric fields E/N is given.

It was shown that, in a broad range of reduced electric fields, a fixed fraction of discharge power η
E
spent on the excitation of electronic degrees of freedom, ionization and dissociation of molecules is converted to fast heating of nitrogen–oxygen mixtures. In air, the value of η
E
is about 30 ± 3%. The value of η
E
diminishes with decreasing share of oxygen in a mixture. The significant role of heat release in the pooling reactions of
molecules for fast gas heating in pure nitrogen and in nitrogen with small admixtures of oxygen is demonstrated. The simulation results agree with experimental data at E/N < 200 Td within the range of oxygen content δ = 0–20%.
Fast gas heating in nitrogen–oxygen discharge plasma: II. Energy exchange in the afterglow of a volume nanosecond discharge at moderate pressures
Authors: Mintoussov E I , Pendleton S J , Gerbault F G , Popov N A , Starikovskaia S M
Published: June 2011

The process of fast gas heating in air in the near afterglow of a pulsed nanosecond spatially uniform discharge has been investigated experimentally and numerically at moderate (3–9 mbar) pressures and high (200–400 Td) reduced electric fields. The temporal behaviour of discharge current, deposited energy, electric field and temperature was measured. The role of processes with participation of excited and charged species was analysed. It was shown that under the considered conditions the main energy release takes place in reactions of nitrogen and oxygen dissociation by electron impact and quenching of electronically excited nitrogen molecules, such as N2(
, B 
3Πg, C 
3Πu,
) by oxygen and quenching of excited O(1D) atoms by N2. It was shown that about 24% of the discharge energy goes to fast gas heating during the first tens of microseconds after the discharge.
Effect of a filamentary discharge on the particle trajectory in a plane-to-plane DBD precipitator
Authors: Zouzou N , Moreau E
Published: June 2011

In this paper, particle velocity fields inside a plane-to-plane dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) precipitator are investigated using time-resolved particle image velocimetry. The main objective is to analyse the effect of a filamentary discharge on the particle trajectory. A sine wave high voltage (24 kV, 30 Hz) is applied to create a DBD inside a planar gap (6.4 mm) filled with particles with a mean size of about 0.28 µm. The time-averaged velocity of the flow in the centre of the channel is about 1 m s−1.

After the establishment of the discharge several filaments cross the gap, and induce a strong effect on the particle trajectory. During a complete period of the voltage, successive phenomena are observed. Before the first filament propagation, the shape of the velocity profiles is typical of a laminar flow. At the early stage following the filament propagation across the gap, the grey-level images show a sudden disappearance of the particles at the same location where the filament takes place. This is due to the fast precipitation of particles. During the positive half-cycle, the particles migrate mainly towards the grounded electrode due to their positive net charge. At the end of a half-cycle, the polarity of the electric field is reversed then the particles initially charged return towards the channel centre. Consequently, the particles oscillate delaying their collection.
Patterning of metallic electrodes on flexible substrates for organic thin-film transistors using a laser thermal printing method
Authors: Chen Kun-Tso , Lin Yu-Hsuan , Ho Jeng-Rong , Chen Chih-Kant , Liu Sung-Ho , Liao Jin-Long , Cheng Hua-Chi
Published: June 2011

We report on a laser thermal printing method for transferring patterned metallic thin films on flexible plastic substrates using a pulsed CO2 laser. Aluminium and silver line patterns, with micrometre scale resolution on poly(ethylene terephthalate) substrates, are shown. The printed electrodes demonstrate good conductivity and fulfil the properties for bottom-contact organic thin-film transistors. In addition to providing the energy for transferring the film, the absorption of laser light results in a rise in the temperature of the film and the substrate. This also further anneals the film and softens the plastic substrate. Consequently, it is possible to obtain a film with better surface morphology and with its film thickness implanted in part into the plastic surface. This implantation reveals excellent characteristics in adhesion and flexure resistance. Being feasible to various substrates and executable at ambient temperatures renders this approach a potential alternative for patterning metallic electrodes.
Metabolic effects of albumin therapy in acute lung injury measured by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy of plasma: A pilot study*
Authors: Park Youngja , Jones Dean P. , Ziegler Thomas R. , Lee Kichun , Kotha Kavitha , Yu Tianwei , Martin Greg S.
Published: June 2011

Objective:

Improved means to monitor and guide interventions could be useful in the intensive care unit. Metabolomic analysis with bioinformatics is used to understand mechanisms and identify biomarkers of disease development and progression. This pilot study evaluated plasma proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy as a means to monitor metabolism following albumin administration in acute lung injury patients.

Design:

This study was conducted on plasma samples from six albumin-treated and six saline-treated patients from a larger double-blind trial. The albumin group was administered 25 g of 25% human albumin in 0.9% saline every 8 hrs for a total of nine doses over 72 hrs. A 0.9% concentration of saline was used as a placebo. Blood samples were collected immediately before, 1 hr after, and 4 hrs after the albumin/saline administration for the first, fourth, and seventh doses (first dose of each day for 3 days). Samples were analyzed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and spectra were analyzed by principal component analysis and biostatistical methods.

Interventions:

None.

Measurements and Main Results:

After 1 day of albumin therapy, changes in small molecules, including amino acids and plasma lipids, were evident with principal component analysis. Differences remained 3 days after the last albumin administration. Analysis of data along with spectra from healthy controls showed that spectra for patients receiving albumin had a trajectory toward the spectra observed for healthy individuals while those of the placebo controls did not.

Conclusion:

The data suggest that metabolic changes detected by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and the bioinformatics tool may be a useful approach to clinical research, especially in acute lung injury.
Increased blood glucose variability during therapeutic hypothermia and outcome after cardiac arrest*
Authors: Cueni-Villoz Nadine , Devigili Alessandro , Delodder Frederik , Cianferoni Silvia , Feihl François , Rossetti Andrea O. , Eggimann Philippe , Vincent Jean-Louis , Taccone Fabio S. , Oddo Mauro
Published: June 2011

Objective:

Hypothermia impairs blood glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity. However, the impact of therapeutic hypothermia on blood glucose levels and insulin requirements is unknown. We analyzed blood glucose variability during therapeutic hypothermia in patients with coma after cardiac arrest and examined its impact on outcome.

Design:

Prospective observational study.

Setting:

Two university hospital medical/surgical intensive care units.

Patients:

Comatose cardiac arrest patients treated with therapeutic hypothermia (33°C, 24 hrs).

Interventions:

Insulin therapy (blood glucose target 6–8 mmol/L [110–150 mg/dL]), according to a written algorithm, with nurse-driven adjustment of insulin dose.

Measurements and Main Results:

Two-hundred and twenty patients (median age 61 yrs, median time to return of spontaneous circulation 20 min) were studied. Two time periods, comparable in duration, were categorized: therapeutic hypothermia (stable maintenance phase) and normothermia (after rewarming). Blood glucose variability was defined as the difference between maximum and minimum blood glucose concentration during each time period. Mean blood glucose (8.3 ± 2.3 vs. 7.1 ± 1.3 mmol/L), blood glucose variability (5.7 ± 3.9 vs. 3.7 ± 3.6 mmol/L), and insulin dose (2 ± 2 vs. 1 ± 1 U/h) were higher during therapeutic hypothermia compared to normothermia (all p < .001). Higher mean blood glucose (7.9 ± 1.8 mmol/L in survivors vs. 8.7 ± 2.6 mmol/L in nonsurvivors, p = .02) and increased blood glucose variability (4.9 ± 3.5 vs. 6.5 ± 4.1 mmol/L, p = .003) during therapeutic hypothermia were associated with mortality. After adjusting for time to return of spontaneous circulation, initial arrest rhythm, and cardiac arrest etiology, increased blood glucose variability during therapeutic hypothermia, but not mean blood glucose level, was an independent predictor of inhospital mortality (odds ratio for death 1.10 [confidence interval 1.02–1.19], p = .016).

Conclusions:

Mild therapeutic hypothermia is associated with higher blood glucose levels, increased blood glucose variability, and greater insulin requirements compared to the postrewarming normothermic phase. Increased blood glucose variability during therapeutic hypothermia is a predictor of inhospital mortality after cardiac arrest, independent of injury severity and mean blood glucose levels.
Comparison of airway pressure release ventilation to conventional mechanical ventilation in the early management of smoke inhalation injury in swine*
Authors: Batchinsky Andriy I. , Burkett Samuel E. , Zanders Thomas B. , Chung Kevin K. , Regn Dara D. , Jordan Bryan S. , Necsoiu Corina , Nguyen Ruth , Hanson Margaret A. , Morris Michael J. , Cancio Leopoldo C.
Published: June 2011

Objective:

The role of airway pressure release ventilation in the management of early smoke inhalation injury has not been studied. We compared the effects of airway pressure release ventilation and conventional mechanical ventilation on oxygenation in a porcine model of acute respiratory distress syndrome induced by wood smoke inhalation.

Design:

Prospective animal study.

Setting:

Government laboratory animal intensive care unit.

Patients:

Thirty-three Yorkshire pigs.

Interventions:

Smoke inhalation injury.

Measurements and Main Results:

Anesthetized female Yorkshire pigs (n = 33) inhaled room-temperature pine-bark smoke. Before injury, the pigs were randomized to receive conventional mechanical ventilation (n = 15) or airway pressure release ventilation (n = 12) for 48 hrs after smoke inhalation. As acute respiratory distress syndrome developed (PaO2/Fio2 ratio <200), plateau pressures were limited to <35 cm H2O. Six uninjured pigs received conventional mechanical ventilation for 48 hrs and served as time controls. Changes in PaO2/Fio2 ratio, tidal volume, respiratory rate, mean airway pressure, plateau pressure, and hemodynamic variables were recorded. Survival was assessed using Kaplan-Meier analysis. PaO2/Fio2 ratio was lower in airway pressure release ventilation vs. conventional mechanical ventilation pigs at 12, 18, and 24 hrs (p < .05) but not at 48 hrs. Tidal volumes were lower in conventional mechanical ventilation animals between 30 and 48 hrs post injury (p < .05). Respiratory rates were lower in airway pressure release ventilation at 24, 42, and 48 hrs (p < .05). Mean airway pressures were higher in airway pressure release ventilation animals between 6 and 48 hrs (p < .05). There was no difference in plateau pressures, hemodynamic variables, or survival between conventional mechanical ventilation and airway pressure release ventilation pigs.

Conclusions:

In this model of acute respiratory distress syndrome caused by severe smoke inhalation in swine, airway pressure release ventilation-treated animals developed acute respiratory distress syndrome faster than conventional mechanical ventilation-treated animals, showing a lower PaO2/Fio2 ratio at 12, 18, and 24 hrs after injury. At other time points, PaO2/Fio2 ratio was not different between conventional mechanical ventilation and airway pressure release ventilation.
Phaeospirillum tilakii sp. nov., a phototrophic alphaproteobacterium isolated from aquatic sediments
Authors: Raj P. Shalem , Chakravarthy S. Kalyana , Ramaprasad E. V. V. , Sasikala Ch. , Ramana Ch. V.
Published: June 2011

Two strains (JA492T and JA590) of spiral-shaped, anaerobic, Gram-stain-negative, motile, purple non-sulfur bacteria were isolated from aquatic sediments from a bird sanctuary and a stream, respectively, and were characterized by a polyphasic taxonomic approach. Bacteriochlorophyll a and carotenoids (rhodopin, lycopene, hydroxylycopene glucoside and dihydroxylycopene diglucoside) were present as photosynthetic pigments. Intracellular photosynthetic membranes were of the stacked type. The major fatty acids were C18 : 1ω7c, C16 : 0 and summed feature 3 (C16 : 1ω6c and/or C16 : 1ω7c) in both strains. Ubiquinones and menaquinones were present as major quinone components. The genomic DNA G+C contents of strains JA492T and JA590 were 63.8 and 61.5 mol%, respectively. Both strains were closely related (mean DNA–DNA hybridization >70 %). Phylogenetic analysis showed that the strains clustered with species of the genus

Phaeospirillum

of the family

Rhodospirillaceae

, class

Alphaproteobacteria

. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, both strains showed highest sequence similarity with

Phaeospirillum oryzae

JA317T (97.2–97.4 %),

Phaeospirillum molischianum

DSM 120T (96.5–96.7 %),

Phaeospirillum fulvum

DSM 113T (96.7–96.9 %) and

Phaeospirillum chandramohanii

JA145T (96.5–96.7 %). DNA–DNA relatedness between strain JA492T and its closest relative in the genus

Phaeospirillum

was less than 42 %. It is evident from phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and molecular genetic data that strain JA492T represents a novel species of the genus

Phaeospirillum

, for which the name Phaeospirillum
tilakii sp. nov. is proposed; the type strain is JA492T ( = NBRC 107650T = KCTC 15012T).
Geofilum rubicundum gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from deep subseafloor sediment
Authors: Miyazaki Masayuki , Koide Osamu , Kobayashi Tohru , Mori Kozue , Shimamura Shigeru , Nunoura Takuro , Imachi Hiroyuki , Inagaki Fumio , Nagahama Takahiko , Nogi Yuichi , Deguchi Shigeru , Takai Ken
Published: June 2011

A novel, facultatively anaerobic bacterium (strain JAM-BA0501T) was isolated from a deep subseafloor sediment sample at a depth of 247 m below seafloor off the Shimokita Peninsula of Japan in the north-western Pacific Ocean (Site C9001, 1180 m water depth). Cells of strain JAM-BA0501T were Gram-negative, filamentous, non-spore-forming and motile on solid medium by gliding. Phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence of strain JAM-BA0501T indicated a distant relationship to strains representing genera within the order

Bacteroidales

, such as

Alkaliflexus imshenetskii

Z-7010T (91.1 % similarity),

Marinilabilia salmonicolor

ATCC 19041T (86.2 %) and

Anaerophaga thermohalophila

Fru22T (89.3 %). The new isolate produced isoprenoid quinones with menaquinone MK-7 as the major component, and the predominant fatty acids were iso-C15 : 0 and anteiso-C15 : 0. The DNA G+C content of the isolate was 42.9 mol%. Based on its taxonomic distinctiveness, strain JAM-BA0501T is considered to represent a novel species of a new genus within the family

Marinilabiliaceae

, for which the name Geofilum rubicundum gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Geofilum rubicundum is JAM-BA0501T ( = JCM 15548T  = NCIMB 14482T).
Leuconostoc miyukkimchii sp. nov., isolated from brown algae (Undaria pinnatifida) kimchi
Authors: Lee Seung Hyeon , Park Moon Su , Jung Ji Young , Jeon Che Ok
Published: June 2011

A Gram-staining-positive, non-motile and non-spore-forming lactic acid bacterium, designated strain M2T, was isolated from fermented brown algae (Undaria pinnatifida) kimchi in South Korea. Cells of the isolate were facultatively anaerobic ovoids and showed catalase- and oxidase-negative reactions. Growth of strain M2T was observed at 4–35 °C and at pH 5.0–9.0. The G+C content of the genomic DNA was 42.5 mol%. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain M2T belonged to the genus

Leuconostoc

and was most closely related to

Leuconostoc inhae

IH003T,

Leuconostoc kimchii

IH25T,

Leuconostoc gasicomitatum

LMG 18811T,

Leuconostoc gelidum

DSM 5578T,

Leuconostoc palmae

TMW2.694T and

Leuconostoc holzapfelii

BFE 7000T with 98.9 %, 98.8 %, 98.8 %, 98.7 %, 98.5 % and 98.2 % sequence similarity, respectively. DNA–DNA hybridization values between strain M2T and

Leuconostoc inhae

KACC 12281T,

Leuconostoc kimchii

IH25T,

Leuconostoc gelidum

KACC 12256T,

Leuconostoc gasicomitatum

KACC 13854T,

Leuconostoc palmae

DSM 21144T and

Leuconostoc holzapfelii

DSM 21478T were 13.8±3.2 %, 14.3±3.4 %, 9.9±1.0 %, 13.2±0.8 %, 22.4±4.9 % and 16.2±4.6 %, respectively, which allowed differentiation of strain M2T from the closely related species of the genus

Leuconostoc

. On the basis of phenotypic and molecular properties, strain M2T represents a novel species in the genus

Leuconostoc

, for which the name Leuconostoc miyukkimchii sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is M2T ( = KACC 15353T  = JCM 17445T).
Flavivirga jejuensis gen. nov., sp. nov., and Flavivirga amylovorans sp. nov., new members of the family

Flavobacteriaceae

isolated from seawater, and emended descriptions of the genera

Psychroserpens

and

Lacinutrix
Authors: Yi Hana , Cho Jang-Cheon , Chun Jongsik
Published: June 2011

Two yellow, rod-shaped, Gram-reaction-negative, strictly aerobic bacterial strains, designated JC2682T and JC2681T, were isolated from a seawater sample of Jeju Island, Korea. The isolates required sea salts for growth and showed gliding motility. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that strains JC2682T and JC2681T shared 96.9 % similarity and formed a robust monophyletic group within the radiation encompassing the family

Flavobacteriaceae

. This distinct clade, which had varying branch positions depending on the tree-making algorithm used, represents a new genus within the family

Flavobacteriaceae

. The predominant isoprenoid quinone (menaquinone 6, MK-6) and DNA G+C content (27–33 mol%) were consistent with its assignment to the family

Flavobacteriaceae

, but the polar lipid profile, fatty acid composition and overall phenotypic traits demonstrated that the test strains were not closely affiliated to any recognized genera. Based on data from the present polyphasic taxonomic study, strains JC2682T and JC2681T are considered to represent two novel species of a new genus in the family

Flavobacteriaceae

, for which the names Flavivirga jejuensis gen. nov., sp. nov. and Flavivirga amylovorans sp. nov. are proposed, respectively. The type strain of Flavivirga jejuensis is JC2682T ( = KACC 14158T  = JCM 17113T). The type strain of Flavivirga amylovorans is JC2681T ( = KACC 14157T  = JCM 17112T). Amended descriptions of the genera

Psychroserpens

and

Lacinutrix

are provided.
Transcription Factor–Dependent Chromatin Remodeling at Heat Shock and Copper-Responsive Promoters in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Strenkert Daniela , Schmollinger Stefan , Sommer Frederik , Schulz-Raffelt Miriam , Schroda Michael
Published: June 2011

How transcription factors affect chromatin structure to regulate gene expression in response to changes in environmental conditions is poorly understood in the green lineage. To shed light on this issue, we used chromatin immunoprecipitation and formaldehyde-assisted isolation of regulatory elements to investigate the chromatin structure at target genes of HSF1 and CRR1, key transcriptional regulators of the heat shock and copper starvation responses, respectively, in the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Generally, we detected lower nucleosome occupancy, higher levels of histone H3/4 acetylation, and lower levels of histone H3 Lys 4 (H3K4) monomethylation at promoter regions of active genes compared with inactive promoters and transcribed and intergenic regions. Specifically, we find that activated HSF1 and CRR1 transcription factors mediate the acetylation of histones H3/4, nucleosome eviction, remodeling of the H3K4 mono- and dimethylation marks, and transcription initiation/elongation. By this, HSF1 and CRR1 quite individually remodel and activate target promoters that may be inactive and embedded into closed chromatin (HSP22F/CYC6) or weakly active and embedded into partially opened (CPX1) or completely opened chromatin (HSP70A/CRD1). We also observed HSF1-independent histone H3/4 deacetylation at the RBCS2 promoter after heat shock, suggesting interplay of specific and presumably more generally acting factors to adapt gene expression to the new requirements of a changing environment.
Identification and expression analysis of the genes involved in serotonin biosynthesis and transduction in the field cricket Gryllus bimaculatus
Authors: Watanabe T. , Sadamoto H. , Aonuma H.
Published: June 2011

Serotonin (5‐HT) modulates various aspects of behaviours such as aggressive behaviour and circadian behaviour in the cricket. To elucidate the molecular basis of the cricket 5‐HT system, we identified 5‐HT‐related genes in the field cricket Gryllus bimaculatus DeGeer. Complementary DNA of tryptophan hydroxylase and phenylalanine‐tryptophan hydroxylase, which convert tryptophan into 5‐hydroxy‐L‐tryptophan (5‐HTP), and that of aromatic L‐amino acid decarboxylase, which converts 5‐HTP into 5‐HT, were isolated from a cricket brain cDNA library. In addition, four 5‐HT receptor genes (5‐HT1A, 5‐HT1B, 5‐HT2α, and 5‐HT7) were identified. Expression analysis of the tryptophan hydroxylase gene TRH and phenylalanine‐tryptophan hydroxylase gene TPH, which are selectively involved in neuronal and peripheral 5‐HT synthesis in Drosophila, suggested that two 5‐HT synthesis pathways co‐exist in the cricket neuronal tissues. The four 5‐HT receptor genes were expressed in various tissues at differential expression levels, suggesting that the 5‐HT system is widely distributed in the cricket.
Regeneration in the auditory system of nymphal and adult bush crickets Tettigonia viridissima
Authors: KRÜGER SILKE , HALLER BLAKE , LAKES‐HARLAN REINHARD
Published: June 2011

Regeneration and reestablishment of synaptic connections is an important topic in neurobiological research. In the present study, the regeneration of auditory afferents and the accompanying effects in the central nervous system are investigated in nymphs and adults of the bush cricket Tettigonia viridissima L. (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae). In all animals in which the tympanal nerve is crushed, neuronal tracing shows a regrowth of the afferents into the prothoracic ganglion. This regeneration is seen in both adult and nymphal stages and starts 10–15 days after nerve crushing. Physiological recordings from the leg nerve indicate a recovery of tympanal fibres and a formation of functional connections to interneurones in the same time range. Electrophysiological recordings from the neck connective suggest additional contralateral sprouting of interneurones and the formation of aberrant connections. The regeneration processes of the tympanal nerve in nymphal stages and adults appear to be similar.
Hyperpigmented spots within and partly around a hypopigmented macule
Authors: Oiso Naoki , Amatsu Akinori , Kawada Akira
Published: June 2011

What is your diagnosis?
Postoperative Complications after Surgical Management of Incomplete Ossification of the Humeral Condyle in Dogs
Authors: Hattersley Rachel , McKee Malcolm , O'Neill Turlough , Clarke Stephen , Butterworth Steven , Maddox Thomas , Owen Martin , Langley‐Hobbs Sorrel J. , Comerford Eithne
Published: June 2011

Objective: To describe incidence and type of postoperative complications in the surgical management of incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle (IOHC) and identify any risk factors associated with development of these complications.

Study Design: Case series.

Methods: Clinical records of dogs (n=57) that had prophylactic transcondylar screw insertion for treatment of IOHC (79 elbows) at 6 UK referral centers were reviewed. Signalment, presentation, surgical management, postoperative care, and complications were recorded. Postoperative complications were divided into seroma, surgical site infections (SSI) and implant complications.

Results: Spaniel breeds and entire males were overrepresented. The overall complication rate was 59.5%. Seroma (n=25) and SSI (24) were the most commonly encountered complications. Implant failure occurred in 2 dogs. Labrador retrievers were at greater risk of developing a postoperative complication than other breeds (P=.03). Increasing bodyweight was a significant risk factor for development of a SSI (P=.03). Placement of the transcondylar screw in lag fashion rather than as a positional screw reduced the incidence of postoperative SSI (P=.007).

Conclusions: Surgical management of IOHC is associated with a high rate of postoperative complications. Placement of the transcondylar screw in lag fashion may limit postoperative complications and warrants further consideration.
Discrimination of Viable Acanthamoeba castellani Trophozoites and Cysts by Propidium Monoazide Real‐Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: FITTIPALDI MARIANA , PINO RODRIGUEZ NANCY J. , ADRADOS BÁRBARA , AGUSTÍ GEMMA , PEÑUELA GUSTAVO , MORATÓ JORDI , CODONY FRANCESC
Published: June 2011

ABSTRACT. Even though the advent of quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has improved the detection of pathogen microorganisms in most of areas of microbiology, a serious limitation of this method may arise from the inability to discriminate between viable and nonviable pathogens. To overcome it, the use of real‐time PCR and selective nucleic acid intercalating dyes like propidium monoazide (PMA) have been effectively evaluated for different microorganisms. To assess whether PMA pretreatment can inhibit PCR amplification of nonviable amoeba DNA, Acanthamoeba castellani survival was measured using cell culture and real‐time PCR with and without PMA pretreatment. Autoclave and contact lens disinfecting solutions were used to inactivate amoebae. After these inactivation treatments, the results indicated that the PMA pretreatment approach is appropriate for differentiating viable A. castellani, both trophozoites and cysts. Therefore, the PMA‐PCR approach could be useful as a rapid and sensitive analytical tool for monitoring treatment and disease control, assessing effective disinfection treatments, and for a more reliable understanding of the factors that contribute to the interaction amoeba–pathogenic bacteria.
Market Segmentation and the Cost of Capital in a Domestic Market: Evidence from Municipal Bonds
Authors: Pirinsky Christo A. , Wang Qinghai
Published: June 2011

We study the implications of market segmentation in a domestic setting, the US municipal bond market. A (state‐level) segmentation of this market emerges from asymmetric tax exemption. Municipal bond investors are exempt from state and local taxes on bonds issued by their own state, but not on bonds issued by other states. We demonstrate that market segmentation imposes significant costs on both issuers and investors in the form of higher yields and higher costs of financial intermediation. Our results provide insight into some well‐documented artifacts of the municipal bond market, such as high yields and the popularity of insurance.
Nonlinears Normal Modes for Vibrating Mechanical Systems. Review of
Theoretical Developments
Authors: Mikhlin Yuri V. , Avramov Konstantin V.
Published: June 2011

Two principal concepts of nonlinear normal vibrations modes (NNMs), namely the Kauderer–Rosenberg and Shaw–Pierre concepts, are analyzed. Properties of the NNMs and methods of their analysis are presented. NNMs stability and bifurcations are discussed. Combined application of the NNMs and the Rauscher method to analyze forced and parametric vibrations is discussed. Generalization of the NNMs to continuous systems dynamics is also described.
Gametogenesis Eliminates Age-Induced Cellular Damage and Resets Life Span in Yeast
Authors: Ünal Elçin , Kinde Benyam , Amon Angelika
Published: June 2011

When yeast commits to sex, reversal of age-induced cellular damage rejuvenates its life span.
The Oxygen Isotopic Composition of the Sun Inferred from Captured Solar Wind
Authors: McKeegan K. D. , Kallio A. P. A. , Heber V. S. , Jarzebinski G. , Mao P. H. , Coath C. D. , Kunihiro T. , Wiens R. C. , Nordholt J. E. , Moses R. W. , Reisenfeld D. B. , Jurewicz A. J. G. , Burnett D. S.
Published: June 2011

The Sun is highly enriched in the most abundant isotope of oxygen, oxygen-16, relative to most other planetary materials.
Mutagenic Processing of Ribonucleotides in DNA by Yeast Topoisomerase I
Authors: Kim Nayun , Huang Shar-yin N. , Williams Jessica S. , Li Yue C. , Clark Alan B. , Cho Jang-Eun , Kunkel Thomas A. , Pommier Yves , Jinks-Robertson Sue
Published: June 2011

An enzyme that removes supercoils from DNA can cause mutations when RNA bases accidentally get incorporated into the DNA.
Synthetic Physiology
Authors: Chow Brian Y. , Boyden Edward S.
Published: June 2011

A marriage of optogenetics and synthetic biology could open the door to diverse applications, from animal models of disease to diagnostics and therapies.
Getting There
Authors: Service Robert F.
Published: June 2011

Better batteries paved the way for half-decent electric cars. Making improved versions viable for the mass market will depend on a suite of advanced battery technologies now in labs around the globe.
Population Genetic Structure of Clinical and Environmental Isolates of Blastomyces dermatitidis, Based on 27 Polymorphic Microsatellite Markers
Authors: Meece Jennifer K. , Anderson Jennifer L. , Fisher Matthew C. , Henk Daniel A. , Sloss Brian L. , Reed Kurt D.
Published: June 2011

Blastomyces dermatitidis
, a thermally dimorphic fungus, is the etiologic agent of North American blastomycosis. Clinical presentation is varied, ranging from silent infections to fulminant respiratory disease and dissemination to skin and other sites. Exploration of the population genetic structure of
B. dermatitidis
would improve our knowledge regarding variation in virulence phenotypes, geographic distribution, and difference in host specificity. The objective of this study was to develop and test a panel of microsatellite markers to delineate the population genetic structure within a group of clinical and environmental isolates of
B. dermatitidis
. We developed 27 microsatellite markers and genotyped
B. dermatitidis
isolates from various hosts and environmental sources (
n
=112). Assembly of a neighbor-joining tree of allele-sharing distance revealed two genetically distinct groups, separated by a deep node. Bayesian admixture analysis showed that two populations were statistically supported. Principal coordinate analysis also reinforced support for two genetic groups, with the primary axis explaining 61.41% of the genetic variability. Group 1 isolates average 1.8 alleles/locus, whereas group 2 isolates are highly polymorphic, averaging 8.2 alleles/locus. In this data set, alleles at three loci are unshared between the two groups and appear diagnostic. The mating type of individual isolates was determined by PCR. Both mating type-specific genes, the HMG and α-box domains, were represented in each of the genetic groups, with slightly more isolates having the HMG allele. One interpretation of this study is that the species currently designated
B. dermatitidis
includes a cryptic subspecies or perhaps a separate species.