bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An
MSH4
Homolog,
stpp1
, from Pleurotus pulmonarius Is a “Silver Bullet” for Resolving Problems Caused by Spores in Cultivated Mushrooms
Authors: Okuda Yasuhito , Murakami Shigeyuki , Honda Yoichi , Matsumoto Teruyuki
Published: May 2013

The enormous number of spores produced by fruiting bodies during cultivation of mushrooms can lead to allergic reactions of workers, reduction of commercial value, spread of mushroom disease, pollution of facilities, and depletion of genetic diversity in natural populations. A cultivar harboring a sporulation-deficient (sporeless) mutation would be very useful for preventing these problems, but sporeless commercial cultivars are very limited in usefulness because sporeless traits are often linked with traits that are unfavorable for commercial cultivation. Thus, identifying a causal gene of a sporeless phenotype not linked to the adverse traits in breeding and cultivation is crucial for the establishment of sporeless breeding using a strategy employing targeting induced local lesions in genomes (TILLING) in cultivated mushrooms. We used a
Pleurotus pulmonarius
(Fr.) Quél. sporeless strain to identify and characterize the single recessive gene controlling the mutation. The 3,853-bp
stpp1
gene encodes a protein of 854 amino acids and belongs to the MutS homolog (MSH) family associated with mismatch repair in DNA synthesis or recombination in meiosis. Gene expression analysis of the fruiting body showed that this gene is strongly expressed in the gills. Phenotypic analysis of disruptants formed by gene targeting suggested a reproducible sporeless phenotype. Mutants deficient in a functional copy of this gene have no unfavorable traits for sporeless cultivar breeding, so this gene will be an extremely useful target for efficient and versatile sporeless breeding in
P. pulmonarius
and various other cultivated mushrooms.
Transkingdom Genetic Transfer from Escherichia coli to Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a Simple Gene Introduction Tool
Authors: Moriguchi Kazuki , Edahiro Noritaka , Yamamoto Shinji , Tanaka Katsuyuki , Kurata Nori , Suzuki Katsunori
Published: May 2013

Transkingdom conjugation (TKC) permits transfer of DNA from bacteria to eukaryotic cells using a bacterial conjugal transfer system. However, it is not clear whether the process of DNA acceptance in a recipient eukaryote is homologous to the process of conjugation between bacteria. TKC transfer requires mobilizable shuttle vectors that are capable of conjugal transfer and replication in the donor and recipient strains. Here, we developed TKC vectors derived from plasmids belonging to the IncP and IncQ groups. We also investigated forms of transfer of these vectors from
Escherichia coli
into
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
to develop TKC as a simple gene introduction method. Both types of vectors were transferred precisely, conserving the origin of transfer (
oriT
) sequences, but IncP-based vectors appeared to be more efficient than an IncQ-based vector. Interestingly, unlike in agrobacterial T-DNA (transfer DNA) transfer, the efficiency of TKC transfer was similar between a wild-type yeast strain and DNA repair mutants defective in homologous recombination (
rad51Δ
and
rad52Δ
) or nonhomologous end joining (
rad50Δ
,
yku70Δ
, and
lig4Δ
). Lastly, a shuttle vector with two repeats of IncP-type
oriT
(
oriT
P
) sequences flanking a marker gene was constructed. TKC transfer of this vector resulted in precise excision of both the
oriT
P
loci as well as the marker gene, albeit at a low frequency of 17% of all transconjugants. This feature would be attractive in biotechnological applications of TKC. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that in contrast to agrobacterial T-DNA transfer, the circularization of vector single-stranded DNA occurs either before or after transfer but requires a factor(s) from the donor. TKC is a simple method of gene transfer with possible applications in yeast genetics and biotechnology.
The Unfolded Protein Response in the Protozoan Parasite Toxoplasma gondii Features Translational and Transcriptional Control
Authors: Joyce Bradley R. , Tampaki Zoi , Kim Kami , Wek Ronald C. , Sullivan William J.
Published: May 2013

The unfolded protein response (UPR) is an important regulatory network that responds to perturbations in protein homeostasis in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). In mammalian cells, the UPR features translational and transcriptional mechanisms of gene expression aimed at restoring proteostatic control. A central feature of the UPR is phosphorylation of the α subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor-2 (eIF2) by PERK (EIF2AK3/PEK), which reduces the influx of nascent proteins into the ER by lowering global protein synthesis, coincident with preferential translation of key transcription activators of genes that function to expand the processing capacity of this secretory organelle. Upon ER stress, the apicomplexan parasite
Toxoplasma gondii
is known to induce phosphorylation of
Toxoplasma
eIF2α and lower translation initiation. To characterize the nature of the ensuing UPR in this parasite, we carried out microarray analyses to measure the changes in the transcriptome and in translational control during ER stress. We determined that a collection of transcripts linked with the secretory process are induced in response to ER stress, supporting the idea that a transcriptional induction phase of the UPR occurs in
Toxoplasma.
Furthermore, we determined that about 500 gene transcripts showed enhanced association with translating ribosomes during ER stress. Many of these target genes are suggested to be involved in gene expression, including JmjC5, which continues to be actively translated during ER stress. This study indicates that
Toxoplasma
triggers a UPR during ER stress that features both translational and transcriptional regulatory mechanisms, which is likely to be important for parasite invasion and development.
Genome Sequencing of Ralstonia solanacearum FQY_4, Isolated from a Bacterial Wilt Nursery Used for Breeding Crop Resistance
Authors: Cao Yi , Tian Baoyu , Liu Yanxia , Cai Liuti , Wang Hancheng , Lu Ning , Wang Maosheng , Shang Shenghua , Luo Zhengyou , Shi Junxiong
Published: May 2013

Ralstonia solanacearum
strain FQY_4 was isolated from a bacterial wilt nursery, which is used for breeding crops for
Ralstonia
resistance in China. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of FQY_4 and its comparison with other published
R. solanacearum
genomes, especially with the strains GMI1000 and Y45 in the same group.
Complete Genome Sequence of a European Genotype Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus in China
Authors: Zhou Zhi , Liu Qi , Hu Dongmei , Yue Xiaojuan , Yu Xiuling , Zhang Qian , Gu Xiaoxue , Ni Jianqiang , Li Xiangdong , Zhai Xinyan , Tian Kegong
Published: May 2013

Here, we report a novel European genotype porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) strain with 15 nucleotide deletions in the nonstructural protein 2 region and 3 nucleotide deletions in the overlapping regions of the open reading frame 3 (ORF3) and ORF4 regions. This study will aid in further exploration of the genetic and antigenic diversity of the European genotype of the PRRSV in China.
Draft Genome Sequence of Erwinia toletana, a Bacterium Associated with Olive Knots Caused by Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. Savastanoi
Authors: Passos da Silva Daniel , Devescovi Giulia , Paszkiewicz Konrad , Moretti Chiaraluce , Buonaurio Roberto , Studholme David J. , Venturi Vittorio
Published: May 2013

Erwinia toletana
was first reported in 2004 as a bacterial species isolated from olive knots caused by the plant bacterium
Pseudomonas savastanoi
pv. savastanoi. Recent studies have shown that the presence of this bacterium in the olive knot environment increases the virulence of the disease, indicating possible interspecies interactions with
P. savastanoi
pv. savastanoi. Here, we report the first draft genome sequence of an
E. toletana
strain.
Genome Sequence of a Gamma- and UV-Ray-Resistant Strain, Deinococcus wulumuqiensis R12
Authors: Xu Xian , Jiang Ling , Zhang Zhidong , Shi Yuhu , Huang He
Published: May 2013

Deinococcus wulumuqiensis
R12, isolated from radiation-polluted soil, is a red-pigmented strain of the extremely radioresistant genus
Deinococcus
. It contains a major carotenoid, namely, deinoxanthin. Here, we present a 3.39-Mb assembly of its genome sequence, which might provide various kinds of useful information related to
Deinococcus
, such as about the key enzymes of its radioresistance mechanism and carotenoid biosynthetic pathways.
Draft Genome Sequence of Strain JLT2015
T
, Belonging to the Family
Sphingomonadaceae
of the
Alphaproteobacteria
Authors: Tang Kai , Liu Kesao , Li Shuhui , Jiao Nianzhi
Published: May 2013

Strain JLT2015
T
was isolated from the southeastern Pacific, as a representative of a new genus of the family
Sphingomonadaceae
of the
Alphaproteobacteria
. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of strain JLT2015
T
, which provides insight into the oligotrophic strategy of this organism.
GENE EXPRESSION OF MATRIX-DEGRADING ENZYMES IN PATELLAR TENDINOPATHY
Authors: Samiric T , Handley C J , Cook J , Parkinson J
Published: May 2013

Introduction

A predominant feature of tendinopathy is a change in the appearance and organisation of the extracellular matrix including greater amounts of the large aggregating proteoglycans, aggrecan and versican. We have shown that in patellar tendinopathy these large proteoglycans are also rapidly degraded so that mainly fragments remain in the tissue.1 This catabolism of large proteoglycans is likely to be mediated by a number of matrix-degrading proteinases such as the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and the aggrecanases (ADAMTSs).

The aim of this work was to investigate whether in patellar tendinopathy there is a change in the gene expression of the matrix proteinases involved in proteoglycan catabolism including the MMPs and ADAMTSs, as well as their inhibitors, the tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs).

Methods

Total mRNA isolated from ∼100mg tissue samples of normal (n=9) and pathologic (n=12) tendon was assayed by relative quantitative RT-PCR for MMP (-1, -2, -3, -9, and -13), ADAMTS (-1, -4, -5), and TIMP (-1, -2, -3, and -4), and normalised to GAPDH.

Results

Expression of mRNA for MMP-9 and TIMP-1 was significantly up-regulated in pathologic tendons (p=0.019 and p=0.013, respectively). A trend toward a down-regulation of expression of MMP-3 was observed in pathologic tendons (p=0.06). There were no significant changes in ADAMTS-1, -4, or -5 gene expressions.

Discussion

These results suggest that the elevated expression of MMP-9 and TIMP-1 genes is likely to reflect the changes in collagen metabolism in pathologic tendons. However, these results also suggest that the proteolysis of proteoglycans in the pathologic tendons is not likely to be affected at the gene expression level of proteinases and their inhibitors. These observations are consistent with others, who showed no difference in the expression of ADAMTS-1, -4, and -5 genes between human Achilles tendons with chronic pain and normal tendons.2 3 Therefore, it is likely that proteoglycan catabolism is elevated by the activation of ADAMTSs and possibly MMPs and not by increased gene expression. This activation may be driven by growth factors and cytokines such as IL-1α, TGF-β and TNF-α, which are shown to be increased in overuse tendinopathy. However, the details of the mechanisms of these regulatory processes warrant further investigation.
FULL-THICKNESS SUPRASPINATUS TEARS DEMONSTRATE SIGNIFICANT DETERIORATION OF MUSCLE REGENERATIVE POTENTIAL
Authors: Lundgreen K , Lian Ø , Scott A , Engebretsen L
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Rotator cuff tendinopathy is a significant source of musculoskeletal disability. Accompanying muscle changes may be important determinants of the prognosis. The aim of this study was to compare histological muscle changes in partial-thickness to full-thickness tears of the supraspinatus tendon.

Methods

Muscle biopsies of nine partially torn and 15 fully torn supraspinatus tendons were compared histologically. H&E staining was performed to assess degenerative changes. Immunohistochemistry was used to assess slow and fast myosin heavy chains (type I and II fibres; Anti-slow skeletal myosin heavy chain antibody and Anti-fast skeletal myosin heavy chain antibody), satellite cells (CD56), proliferation (Ki67) and apoptotic cells (activated caspase-3; Asp175).

Results

Full-thickness tears demonstrated significant atrophy of both slow (type I) and fast (type II) myosin heavy chains compared to partial tears. The area ratio of type II to type I was doubled in full-thickness tears. Partial thickness tears revealed significantly more satellite cells and proliferative activity than full-thickness tears. There was no detectable apoptosis using an antibody recognising active caspase-3.

Discussion

Progression of rotator cuff tendinopathy is accompanied by a change in muscle fibre phenotype from endurance type I fibres to type II fibres more prone to fatigue, illustrating an aspect of muscle disuse. The rotator cuff muscle's ability to regenerate appears to be reduced when a full-thickness tear is established. Apoptosis does not appear to be of importance in muscle changes accompanying rotator cuff tendinopathy.
ULTRASOUND-GUIDED PERCUTANEOUS ASPIRATION IN CALCIFYING TENDINITIS OF THE SHOULDER
Authors: López J S S , Pazos F B , Valero A R , Silván D M , Jaén T F F
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Tendinopathy is a common pathology; calcifying tendinitis of the shoulder is less frequent and there are controversies regarding its treatment. The aim was to study the short-term efficiency of ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration in patients with calcifying tendinitis of the shoulder, and compare the results with other treatment techniques. The second aim was to study the shape of the acromion in calcifying tendinitis and correlate this with the shape of the acromion in the general population.

Method

13 patients diagnosed with calcifying tendinitis of the shoulder were treated using an ultrasound and radiology study. They underwent the Constant and Oxford questionnaire to assess shoulder pain and function. The technique employed was ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration. Two groups were formed: group 1 with the aspirated patients; group 2 with patients in which calcification was fragmented. The patients were monitored after 1 month and 3 months from commencement of treatment.

Results

The treated patients consisted of seven men and six women, aged between 40 and 57. In the functional assessment of the shoulder prior to treatment and 3 months following treatment, the difference in the Constant score was 58.69 points and 17.38 points in the Oxford score. The differences were statistically significant (p=0.001) for both scores. In the clinical assessment and in the decrease of calcification, better results are obtained in the group that had the calcium deposits aspirated, compared to the other group where calcification was fragmented.

Discussion

Patients that had calcification removed had better clinical results than patients that did not. Ultrasound-guided percutaneous aspiration is a good treatment.
STUDIES ON ACHILLES TENDINOSIS: BILATERAL RECOVERY AFTER UNILATERAL SURGERY, AND SIMILAR HISTOPATHOLOGICAL APPEARANCES BILATERALLY
Authors: Alfredson H , Spang C , Forsgren S
Published: May 2013

It is frequently observed that midportion Achilles tendinopathy/tendinosis occurs bilaterally. With this as a background, the outcome of unilateral operations was evaluated in 13 patients (seven males and six females) with chronic painful bilateral midportion Achilles tendinopathy (tendinosis) (symptom duration: 6–12 months). Prolonged periods of rest did not have an effect. As surgical treatment, an ultrasound and Doppler-guided scraping procedure outside the ventral part of the tendon was performed in local anaesthesia, a method that recently has been found to be successful for patients with Achilles tendinosis. Surgical treatment was performed only on one side, the other side being left untreated. The patients started walking on the first day after surgery, and were followed over time. In an additional part of the study, specimens from Achilles and plantaris tendons in 3 patients with bilateral Achilles tendinosis were examined. Follow-ups showed postoperative improvement also on the non-operated side in 11/13 patients, and a final follow up after 37 (mean) months showed significant pain relief and patient satisfaction on both sides for these 11 patients. In 2/13 patients, operation on the other, initially non-operated side, was needed. Morphologically, it was found that there were similar morphological characteristics and similar immunohistochemical patterns concerning enzymes involved in signal substance production bilaterally, the microscopic findings being in line with previous information from tendinosis tendons. It can be concluded that the structural affections are similar on both sides in bilateral Achilles tendinosis. The study showed that unilateral operative treatment can also have benefits contra-laterally. A hypothesis is that unilateral influences on the sensory innervation in the peritendinous tissue in response to the scraping operation have secondary effects contralaterally, that is, influences on the pattern of primary-afferent activation on one side can have effects contra-laterally. The interpretation concerning a presumable cross-talk between right and left sides are in line with the results of recent experimental studies in animals showing that tendinosis-like features occur bilaterally in the Achilles tendons in response to unilateral overuse, suggesting that there is an involvement of central neuronal mechanisms. The observations of bilateral effects in response to unilateral treatment have clinical implications.
Using a mobile app and mobile workforce to validate data about emergency public health resources
Authors: Chang Anna Marie , Leung Alison C , Saynisch Olivia , Griffis Heather , Hill Shawndra , Hershey John C , Becker Lance B , Asch David A , Seidman Ariel , Merchant Raina Martha
Published: May 2013

Background

Social media and mobile applications that allow people to work anywhere are changing the way people can contribute and collaborate.

Objective

We sought to determine the feasibility of using mobile workforce technology to validate the locations of automated external defibrillators (AEDs), an emergency public health resource.

Methods

We piloted the use of a mobile workforce application, to verify the location of 40 AEDs in Philadelphia county. AEDs were pre-identified in public locations for baseline data. The task of locating AEDs was posted online for a mobile workforce from October 2011 to January 2012. Participants were required to submit a mobile phone photo of AEDs and descriptions of the location.

Results

Thirty-five of the 40 AEDs were identified within the study period. Most, 91% (32/35) of the submitted AED photo information was confirmed project baseline data. Participants also provided additional data such as business hours and other nearby AEDs.

Conclusions

It is feasible to engage a mobile workforce to complete health research-related tasks. Participants were able to validate information about emergency public health resources.
Personal safety in veterinary practice
Authors: Griffin Rachel
Published: May 2013

Anybody who works with the public can be at risk of violence or aggression in the workplace. For vets, this can be especially true when dealing with emotional clients, upset about the health of their animals or concerned about financial losses. Here, Rachel Griffin talks about possible risks to those in the veterinary profession and how these can be addressed.
Anaesthetic death: who pays?
Authors: Fawcett Anne
Published: May 2013

THIS series gives readers the opportunity to consider and contribute to discussion of some of the ethical dilemmas that can arise in veterinary practice. Each month, a case scenario is presented, followed by discussion of some of the issues involved. In addition, a possible way forward is suggested; however, there is rarely a cut‐and‐dried answer in such cases, and readers may wish to suggest an alternative approach. This month's dilemma, ‘Anaesthetic death: who pays?’, was presented and discussed by Anne Fawcett. Readers with comments to contribute are invited to send them as soon as possible, so that they can be considered for publication in the next issue. Discussion of the dilemma ‘Is flirting with clients taboo?’, which was published in the April issue of In Practice, appears on page 287.

The series is being coordinated by Siobhan Mullan, of the University of Bristol. It is hoped it will provide a framework that will help practices find solutions when facing similar dilemmas.
Comments on the dilemma in the April issue: ‘Is flirting with clients taboo?’
Authors: Mullan Siobhan
Published: May 2013

The dilemma in the April issue concerned the boundaries and behaviours that are acceptable when dealing with clients, in particular whether flirtation is ever appropriate (In Practice, April 2013, volume 35, pages 222–223). Steven McCulloch defined what constituted flirting and how it might be used in certain business situations, such as sales. He stressed, however, that veterinary surgeons and other caring professionals, unlike salespeople, could not afford to have a ‘what sells goes’ attitude, and that their codes of conduct emphasised integrity and outlined boundaries of behaviour that ought not to be crossed. Because vets were in a position of power when relating with clients, and flirtation could be seen as an abuse of that power, it was not only risky but inconsistent with professional behaviour.
Diagnosis and management of chronic joint pain in the dog
Authors: McKee Malcolm
Published: May 2013

Chronic joint pain in dogs is a common reason for owners to seek veterinary attention. Affected dogs typically have persistent lameness, stiffness and muscle atrophy. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis is important since there are a number of conditions, such as sepsis and neoplasia, that require specific treatment. This article reviews the causes and clinical features of chronic joint pain in dogs, as well as the diagnosis and management of these debilitating conditions. In addition to current medical therapies, the surgical options of arthrodesis, joint replacement and excision arthroplasty are discussed.
Support of the collapsed neonatal foal
Authors: Haggett Emily
Published: May 2013

Management of the collapsed foal can be achieved with excellent results, provided a systematic approach to the problem is adopted. Appropriate measures are reviewed in this article. They include: a thorough history and physical examination (particularly of the cardiothoracic and gastrointestinal systems, as well as the foal's neurological status), resuscitating the animal with adequate oxygen and fluid delivery, and instituting adequate maintenance supportive care including an intravenous supply of energy to raise glucose values and antibiotics to treat sepsis, one of the primary causes of neonatal disease.
Acute kidney injury in dogs and cats 1. Pathogenesis and diagnosis
Authors: Mugford Adam , Li Ronald , Humm Karen
Published: May 2013

Acute kidney injury (AKI), an abrupt loss of renal function, is a commonly encountered emergency in small animal practice. This article, the first of two on AKI, reviews the pathophysiology and diagnosis of the condition in dogs and cats. The second article, to be published in the June issue ofIn Practice, will cover the treatment, recovery and prognosis associated with AKI.
Epidemiological evidence on association between ambient air pollution and stroke mortality
Authors: Qian Yifeng , Zhu Meiying , Cai Binxin , Yang Qing , Kan Haidong , Song Guixiang , Jin Wenzheng , Han Ming , Wang Chunfang
Published: May 2013

Background

Inconsistent results have been found on the association between air pollution and stroke mortality. Additionally, evidence on people who are potentially sensitive to air pollution-associated stroke mortality is limited.

Methods

Daily stroke mortality of adults aged over 65 between 2003 and 2008 in Shanghai, China were collected. The time-stratified case-crossover approach was used to assess the association between daily concentrations of air pollutants including particles with size <10 µm, sulfur dioxide (SO2) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and stroke mortality.

Results

Both total-stroke and ischaemic-stroke mortalities were found to be significantly associated with all three air pollutants. Haemorrhagic stroke was significantly associated with SO2and NO2only. Substantial differences were observed for effect estimates of ischaemic-stroke mortality in relation to NO2among people with cardiac diseases compared with those without; for an increase of 10 μg/m3in NO2, the increase in ischaemic-stroke mortality was 7.05% (95% CI 1.92% to 12.17%) for people with comorbid cardiac diseases versus 0.60% (95% CI −0.49% to 1.68%) for those without. We did not find evidence of effect modification by hypertension and diabetes.

Conclusions

This study provides new evidence for the association between exposure to ambient air pollution and stroke mortality. Our results also suggest that underlying cardiac disorder may increase the risk for ischaemic-stroke mortality in relation to air pollution exposure, especially NO2.

.
Predicting sugar maple (Acer saccharum) discoloured wood characteristics
Authors: Baral Sharad Kumar , Schneider Robert , Pothier David , Berninger Frank
Published: May 2013

The presence of wound (strain) initiated discoloured wood columns in the core of sugar maple (Acer saccharum Marshall) stems reduces the proportion of white-coloured wood and, thus, lowers its commercial value. This study aimed to assess the relationship between tree characteristics and the extent and proportion of discoloured wood in sugar maple tree stems. Using 109 trees from three different sites in southern Quebec, we found that the proportion of discoloured wood increased with decreasing sapwood volume and increasing tree age. Younger trees showed a significantly lower proportion of discoloured wood volume. Discoloured wood volume increases disproportionately with tree diameter, while varying among sites. The third important factor affecting the amount of discolored wood was tree vigour as measured by crown characteristics and growth rate changes. A nonlinear mixed-effects model was used to predict discoloured wood taper. Height along the stem was used as a predictor, along with diameter at 1.3 m (DBH), the ratio of live crown length to tree height, and tree height. Although observed injury surface area was positively correlated to discoloured wood volume, injury information did not explain a large share of discoloured wood proportion variation. Overall, older and larger trees with many injuries on less productive sites are likely to have more discoloured wood.
ON THE VERDET CONSTANT AND FARADAY ROTATION FOR GRAPHENE-LIKE MATERIALS
Authors: BRYNILDSEN MIKKEL H. , CORNEAN HORIA D.
Published: May 2013

We present a rigorous and rather self-contained analysis of the Verdet constant in graphene-like materials. We apply the gauge-invariant magnetic perturbation theory to a nearest-neighbor tight-binding model and obtain a relatively simple and exactly computable formula for the Verdet constant, at all temperatures and all frequencies of sufficiently large absolute value. Moreover, for the standard nearest-neighbor tight-binding model of graphene we show that the transverse component of the conductivity tensor has an asymptotic Taylor expansion in the external magnetic field where all the coefficients of even powers are zero.
SURFACE PLASMONS IN COAXIAL METAMATERIAL CABLES
Authors: KUSHWAHA MANVIR S. , DJAFARI-ROUHANI BAHRAM
Published: May 2013

Thanks to Victor Veselago for his hypothesis of negative index of refraction, meta-materials — engineered composites — can be designed to have properties difficult or impossible to find in nature: they can have both electrical permittivity (ϵ) and magnetic permeability (μ) simultaneously negative. The metamaterials — henceforth negative-index materials (NIMs) — owe their properties to subwavelength structure rather than to their chemical composition. The tailored electromagnetic response of the NIMs has had a dramatic impact on classical optics: they are becoming known to have changed many basic notions related with electromagnetism. The present article is focused on gathering and reviewing fundamental characteristics of plasmon propagation in coaxial cables fabricated of the right-handed medium (RHM) (with ϵ > 0, μ > 0) and the left-handed medium (LHM) (with ϵ < 0, μ < 0) in alternate shells starting from the innermost cable. Such structures as conceived here may pave the way to some interesting effects in relation to, for example, optical science exploiting the cylindrical symmetry of coaxial waveguides that make it possible to perform all major functions of an optical fiber communication system in which the light is born, manipulated, and transmitted without ever leaving the fiber environment, with precise control over the polarization rotation and pulse broadening. This review also covers briefly the nomenclature, classification, potential applications, and the limitations (related, for example, to the inherent losses) of the NIMs and their impact on classical electrodynamics in general, and in designing the cloaking devices in particular. A recent surge in efforts on invisibility and the cloaking devices seems to have spoiled the researchers worldwide: proposals include not only a way to hide an object without having to wrap the cloak around it, but also to replace a given object with another, thus adding to the deception even further! All this is attributed as much to the fundamental as to the practical advances made in the fabrication and characterization of NIMs. The article concludes briefly addressing the anticipated implications of plasmon observation in the multicoaxial cables and suggesting future dimensions worth adding to the problem. The background provided is believed to make less formidable the task of future writers of reviews in this field.
FATIGUE BEHAVIOR AND THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CRACK PROPAGATION AND THE SLIT CONFIGURATION OF C/C COMPOSITES
Authors: FERDOUS MD. SHAFIUL , SETYABUDI SOFYAN ARIEF , MAKABE CHOBIN , FUJIKAWA MASAKI
Published: May 2013

The fatigue and fracture behavior of C/C composites fabricated using fine-woven carbon fiber laminates with α = 0/90° direction were investigated. Also, the phenomenon of crack growth behavior and the shear damage in the fiber bundle was discussed. Slits of several sizes were cut on both sides of a test section and different sizes of slit length were chosen. The effect of the slit configuration on crack initiation and growth behavior was observed. Specimens with blunt-notches and center-holes were also used to compare the fatigue strength and crack growth behavior. Non-propagating cracks were observed and fatigue limit was defined as the maximum stress at which specimen did not break for N = 107 cycles stress application. The longest fatigue life was obtained in the case of specimens with shorter slits. The relationships between fatigue strengths and specimen shapes were analyzed by stress concentration, K t , and stress intensity factor, K I . The effect of slit configuration on fatigue strength was then discussed regarding both the experimental and calculated consequences.
NONINTEGRAL FORM OF THE GROSS–PITAEVSKII EQUATION FOR POLARIZED MOLECULES
Authors: ANDREEV PAVEL A.
Published: May 2013

The Gross–Pitaevskii equation for polarized molecules is an integro-differential equation, consequently it is complicated for solving. We find a possibility to represent it as a nonintegral nonlinear Schrödinger equation, but this equation should be coupled with two linear equations describing the electric field. These two equations are the Maxwell equations. We recapture the dispersion of collective excitations in the three-dimensional electrically polarized BEC with no evolution of the electric dipole moment directions. We trace the contribution of the electric dipole moment. We explicitly consider the contribution of the electric dipole moment in the interaction constant for the short-range interaction. We show that the spectrum of dipolar BEC does not reveal instability at repulsive short-range interaction. Nonlinear excitations are also considered. We present dependence of the bright soliton characteristics on the electric dipole moment.
How Much Does Risk Tolerance Change?
Authors: Sahm Claudia R.
Published: May 2013

Stability of preferences is central to how economists study behavior. This paper uses panel data on hypothetical gambles over lifetime income in the Health and Retirement Study to quantify changes in risk tolerance over time and differences across individuals. Maximum-likelihood estimation of a correlated random effects model utilizes information from 12,000 respondents in the 1992–2002 HRS. The results are consistent with constant relative risk aversion and career selection based on preferences. While risk tolerance changes with age and macroeconomic conditions, persistent differences across individuals account for over 70% of the systematic variation.
Microcredit Under the Microscope: What Have We Learned in the Past Two Decades, and What Do We Need to Know?
Authors: Banerjee Abhijit Vinayak
Published: May 2013

Research on microcredit is now two decades old. There has been enormous progress in understanding both what microcredit does and how. Yet a lot of what we have learned has raised new and often quite fundamental questions about its nature: Is microcredit primarily about investment, consumption, or savings? Why is it that the investments financed by microcredit do not always lead to income growth, and does this have to do with the structure of microlending? What are the roles of social capital, reputation, and group lending? This article attempts to take stock of this significant body of work and tries to identify the most important questions for future research.
Pine Wood Nematode,Bursaphelenchus xylophilus
Authors: Futai Kazuyoshi
Published: May 2013

After devastating vast areas of pine forests in Asian countries, the pine wilt disease spread into European forests in 1999 and is causing worldwide concern. This disease involves very complicated interactions between a pathogenic nematode, its vector beetle, host pine species, and fungi in dead hosts. Pathogenicity of the pine wood nematode is determined not only by its physical and chemical traits but also by its behavioral traits. Most life history traits of the pine wood nematode, such as its phoretic relationship with vector beetles, seem to be more effective in virulent than in avirulent isolates or species. As the pathogenicity determinants, secreted enzymes, and surface coat proteins are very important, they have therefore been studied intensively. The mechanism of quick death of a large pine tree as a result of infection by a tiny nematode could be ascribed to the dysfunction of the water-conducting system caused by the death of parenchyma cells, which must have originally evolved as an inherent resistant system.
Status and Prospects of Plant Virus Control Through Interference with Vector Transmission
Authors: Bragard C. , Caciagli P. , Lemaire O. , Lopez-Moya J.J. , MacFarlane S. , Peters D. , Susi P. , Torrance L.
Published: May 2013

Most plant viruses rely on vector organisms for their plant-to-plant spread. Although there are many different natural vectors, few plant virus–vector systems have been well studied. This review describes our current understanding of virus transmission by aphids, thrips, whiteflies, leafhoppers, planthoppers, treehoppers, mites, nematodes, and zoosporic endoparasites. Strategies for control of vectors by host resistance, chemicals, and integrated pest management are reviewed. Many gaps in the knowledge of the transmission mechanisms and a lack of available host resistance to vectors are evident. Advances in genome sequencing and molecular technologies will help to address these problems and will allow innovative control methods through interference with vector transmission. Improved knowledge of factors affecting pest and disease spread in different ecosystems for predictive modeling is also needed. Innovative control measures are urgently required because of the increased risks from vector-borne infections that arise from environmental change.
Design of Rechargeable Air Diffusion Cathode for Metal-Air Battery Using Alkaline Solution
Authors: Takeshita Yuta , Fujimoto Shintaro , Sudoh Masao
Published: May 2013

A gas diffusion electrode (GDE) consisting of a gas diffusion layer and a reaction layer was prepared. The gas diffusion layer was made of carbon (Vulcan XC500 or KS44), and PTFE as the binder. The reaction layer was composed of Ag powder as the catalyst, Vulcan XC500 or KS44 as the supported materials, and PTFE as the binder on a carbon cloth. Carbon supplies the channels and the reaction sites in the cathode. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations and impedance spectroscopy were used to characterize the structure of the electrodes. The impedance measurements were carried out in order to clarify the double-layer capacitance. The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) of the cathode was determined by the polarization curves of the half-cell in 4 M KOH electrolyte with a dry air supply. The carbon size was found to have a significant impact on the electrode intra-structure which is related to the reaction sites. The use of Vulcan XC500 GDE had a higher ORR performance than that of KS44. The addition of milled KS44 to the GDE resulted in achieving a better ORR performance.
The Electrochemical Atomic Layer Deposition of Pt and Pd Nanoparticles on Ni Foam for the Electro-Oxidation of Alcohols
Authors: Modibedi Remegia Mmalewane , Louw Eldah , Mathe Mkhulu K. , Ozoemena Kenneth Ikechukwu
Published: May 2013

Electrodeposition of Pt and Pd metal by surface limited redox replacement reactions was performed using the electrochemical atomic layer deposition. Carbon paper and Ni foam were used as substrates for metal deposition. Supported Pt and Pd electrodes were characterised using electrochemical methods and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Cyclic voltammograms of the electrodeposited Pt and Pd on substrates showed features characteristic of polycrystalline Pt and Pd electrodes respectively. Ethanol oxidation in alkaline media was highly favoured on Pd/Ni foam than on Carbon paper while methanol oxidation was favoured more on Carbon paper than on Ni foam. Carbon paper and Ni foam produced good quality deposits and the EDX confirmed the presence of Pt and Pd particles.
Novel Mesoporous Nanotitania/Carbon Composite Electrodes for Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Sussman Micah J , Brodusch Nicolas , Gauvin Raynald , Demopoulos George P
Published: May 2013

A novel fabrication method comprising screen printing and sintering of nanotitania/carbon paste was developed in order to build binder-free electrodes for lithium-ion energy storage devices. As active material the commercial (P25) nanotitania was used. These electrodes were compared to those fabricated using the standard binder-based method. Physical characterization demonstrated that the novel method provided more carbon dispersion, smaller agglomerate size, and higher packing density (without the loss of interconnectivity or pore size) than the standard one. Electrochemical testing indicated that the novel method-built electrodes are exhibiting higher conductivity and specific capacity than electrodes made with the same active material and carbon plus binder. The specific charging (delithiation) capacity of the novel method electrodes was 162 mA h g-1 compared to 134 mA h g-1 for the standard method, representing 96 and 80% of the theoretical capacity respectively.
Improvement of Cycle Performance of Lithium-Ion Batteries at Elevated Temperature of 60oC Using Graphite Coated with Metal Oxide
Authors: Inoue Nobuhiro , Tajima Ryota , Kuriki Kazutaka , Kimura Kai , Kataniwa Sachiko , Momo Junpei , Moriwaka Tamae , Takahashi Minoru , Yamazaki Shunpei
Published: May 2013

Improvement of cycle performance at 60oC by using SiOx modified graphite has been investigated. A main degradation mode of LiFePO4/Graphite cell was investigated. In LiFePO4 and graphite, the degradation of LIB is mainly due to the loss of Li+, and probably not due to the damage to active material analyzed by XRD pattern and charge-discharge curve. To suppress the loss of Li+, surface modification was examined. SEI formation on Si film is suppressed by modification of SiOx and AlOx. SEI thickness on the Si thin film coated with metal oxide (MOx) has critical influence on resistance of MOx. In the cyclic voltammetry, the intensity of the charge peak at 0.9V during the first charge indicates decomposition of an electrolyte. In SiOx modified graphite, the capacity estimated from 1 V to 0.7 V is decreased compared to the unmodified graphite. Cycle performance was improved by SiOx modified graphite.
Oxalic Dihydrazide Assisted Novel Combustion Synthesized Li3V2(PO4)3 and LiVP2O7 Compounds for Rechargeable Lithium Batteries
Authors: Kalidas Nathiya , Nallathamby Kalaiselvi , Minakshi Manickam
Published: May 2013

A novel oxalic dihydrazide (ODH) has been identified as a fuel for solution combustion synthesis to prepare LixMy(PO4)z compounds as a cathode material for lithium battery applications. These compounds have been synthesized at 850°C using a mixture of Ar:H2 (90:10) atmosphere, wherein oxalic dihydrazide acts both as a combustible fuel and a carbon source. This resulted in a higher carbon content weighing ca. 12 and 8% for poly (Li3V2(PO4)3/C) and pyrophosphate (LiVP2O7/C) composites as opposed to the in-situ added super P carbon was only 5 wt.%. The electrochemical behavior of these cathodes showed reversible intercalation and de-intercalation of lithium ions while exhibiting specific capacities of 168 and 100 mAh/g with good capacity retention. The role of ODH assisted combustion synthesis (ODHAC) on the physical and electrochemical behavior of the title compounds has been demonstrated.
Olivine Materials for Positive Electrodes in Li-Ion Batteries: Electronic Properties
Authors: Julien Christian M , Mauger Alain , Zaghib Karim , Groult Henri
Published: May 2013

The bulk electronic properties of LiFePO4 are explored by the self-consistent analysis of both the magnetic properties and electric conductivity. This combination gives evidence that the ionic and electronic conductivity are closely correlated, since the electronic conductivity is due to the migration of lithium vacancies. The results are compared with the results of the calculations of the formation energy of the native defects in this material.
Orthorhombic MoO3 Nanofibers as Cathode Materials for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Hashem Ahmed M. , Groult Henri , Mauger Alain , Zaghib Karim , Trottier Julie , Julien Christian M
Published: May 2013

We report the structural and electrochemical properties of MoO3 nanofibers synthesized by hydrothermal reaction from acidified ammonium heptamolybdate tetrahydrate precursor. Structural analysis shows that MoO3 nanofibers 50-80 nm in diameter and a several micrometers in length are grown in the orthorhombic system (Pbnm S.G.). The composition MoO2.9975 was determined by Rietveld refinement and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The electrochemical performance of Li//MoO3 cells with nanofibers deliver a better discharge capacity after 40 cycles than MoO3 bulk.
Carbon-Coated Nano-Structured MoO3 as Cathode Materials for Lithium Batteries, Synthesis, Structure and Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Hashem Ahmed M. , Groult Henri , Mauger Alain , Julien Christian M
Published: May 2013

We report the synthesis of carbon-coated a-MoO3 nano-materials and their structural and electrochemical properties. The carbon deposit performed by the lactose method allows enhancement of the electronic conductivity of the composite. The structure of the carbon film is investigated by Raman spectroscopy. The electrochemical tests were carried out in Li/LiPF6-EC–DEC/MoO3 cells. The charge–discharge reaction is investigated as a function of C-rate and the influence of electrode preparation on the electrochemical performance was examined.
Blood Glucose Dependence on Emotional Behaviors and Body Surface Temperatures in Common Marmoset’s Socio-Psychological Learning with Peers - for ‘Development of Human-Environment Interface by Sensing and Multivariate Analysis of Bio-Ecosystem’ -
Authors: Koshiba Mamiko , Seno Aya , Karino Genta , Shirakawa Yuka , Mimura Koki , Sagawa Takeshi , Tsugawa Wakako , Sode Koji , Nakamura Shun
Published: May 2013

It is urgent issue to introduce re-usable energy system, low carbon resources, and food production system compatible with natural environment and we should find an optimized solution in an economic society. “Smart environment” is one of the solutions. The smart environment is expected to optimize a balance of well-being versus energy cost. However, we have no idea what is the best optimization and how to optimize the balance. Here, we attempted to develop a bio-eco system which is able to sense human behavior and physiological response under certain environment to automatically regulate environment to realize a balance which improves human health with minimum energy cost. We describe an information processing model accompanied with the multi-parametric visualization of social interaction behavior in animals and humans based on mainly principal component analysis. For this application in primates, we analyzed their psychological lifelong development to find any susceptible period to environments which is critical to confer their lifelong adaptability to environment. In the study, we could confirm usefulness of blood glucose sensing to infer developmental stages.
Influence of Cathode Polarization on the Chromium Poisoning of SOFC Cathodes Consisting of LSM, LSCF and LNF
Authors: Park Eunjoo , Taniguchi Shunsuke , Chou Jyh-Tyng , Tachikawa Yuya , Shiratori Yusuke , Sasaki Kazunari
Published: May 2013

Chromium poisoning phenomena were compared among three SOFC cathodes consisting of La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 (LSM), La0.6Sr0.4Fe0.8Co0.2O3
(LSCF) and LaNi0.6Fe0.4O3 (LNF) under relatively large cathode polarization conditions. Deposition of chromium near the cathode/electrolyte interface seems to be affected only by the cathode polarization, not by the cathode materials nor the current density.
High Brightness III - V Light-Emitting Diodes on Diamond/Silicon Composite Substrate
Authors: Chang Tai-Min , Hu Jen-Li , Lin Bo-Wen , Wu YewChung Sermon
Published: May 2013

Thermal management of LED is currently an important issue because the increase of junction temperature degrades LED’s performance and reliability. Replace that substrate to high thermal conductivity substrate can improved this problem. Diamond has the highest thermal conductivity (~2000W/mK) in all material but is hard to process and has low reactivity with other material. In this study, high-brightness Ш-Ѵ light-emitting diodes on Si/diamond composite substrate can be fabricate by filled diamond particle into the blind-hole of the silicon substrate, wafer-bonding and lift-off process. In order to confirm that diamond particle provided a direct thermal path for heat dissipation, a simple sandwich structure was also been done.
Carbon Nanotube Synthesis Over Nickel-Ferrite Loaded Oxidized Diamond Catalyst
Authors: Tsujino Gai , Nakagawa Kiyoharu , Ando Toshihiro , Oda Hirokazu
Published: May 2013

Carbon nanotube was synthesized by decomposition of ethylene over oxidized diamond-supported catalysts at a relatively mild temperature. We focused the effect of Fe, Ni, Co, and Ni-Fe, Co-Fe, and Ni-Fe-loaded oxidized diamond catalysts on the growth and inner structure of the carbon nanotubes. From the Results of Raman spectrum, synthesized carbon nanotube over bimetal oxidized diamond catalysts were a high G/D ratio. Synthesized carbon nanotubes had a clear hollow structure.