Optimal Growth Research Papers - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

A novel species in the genus Candida was obtained from deep-sea hydrothermal fields on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Strains Mo39, MARY089 and CBS 5307, respectively, isolated from an unidentified deep-sea coral collected near Rainbow... more

A novel species in the genus Candida was obtained from deep-sea hydrothermal fields on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Strains Mo39, MARY089 and CBS 5307, respectively, isolated from an unidentified deep-sea coral collected near Rainbow hydrothermal vent, from water samples near Menez Gwen hydrothermal field and from the stomach of a marine fish are considered as a novel taxon. Sequence similarities in the D1/D2 region of the 26S rRNA gene indicated that strains Mo39, MARY089 and CBS 5307 have for closest neighbors Candida spencermartinsiae, Candida taylorii, Candida atmosphaerica and Candida atlantica. The strains, respectively, differ from C. spencermartinsiae, C. taylorii, C. atmosphaerica andCandida atlantica by 4, 4.3, 4.3 and 4.7% in the D1/D2 domain. Strains Mo39, MARY089 and CBS 5307 were differentiated from others by differences in the ability to assimilate d-Gluconate and in the ability to grow at relatively high temperature. Only strain Mo39 displays an optimal growth at 3% sea salts, indicating that this strain is clearly adapted to live in marine conditions. Sequence similarities between strains Mo39, MARY089 and CBS 5307 and related species and differences in the ability to utilize specific carbon compounds revealed that these strains represent a hitherto unknown species. Sexual reproduction was not observed in strains Mo39, MARY089 and CBS 5307. An anamorphic name Candida oceani sp. nov. is proposed for the type strain Mo39T (= CBS 11857T = DSM 23777T) and the two other strains MARY089 and CBS 5307. To our knowledge, this is the first description of a micro-eukaryotic organism including a strain isolated from a deep-sea coral near a hydrothermal ecosystem.

Plants phenotypically adjust to environmental challenges, and the gaseous plant hormone ethylene modulates many of these growth adjustments. Ethylene can be involved in environmentally induced growth inhibition as well as growth... more

Plants phenotypically adjust to environmental challenges, and the gaseous plant hormone ethylene modulates many of these growth adjustments. Ethylene can be involved in environmentally induced growth inhibition as well as growth stimulation. Still, ethylene has long been considered a growth inhibitory hormone. There is, however, accumulating evidence indicating that growth promotion is a common feature in ethylene responses. This is evident in environmental challenges, such as flooding and competition, where the resulting avoidance responses can help plants avoid adversity. To show how ethylene-mediated growth enhancement can facilitate plant performance under adverse conditions, we explored a number of these exam-ples. To escape adversity, plants can optimize growth and thereby tolerate abiotic stresses such as drought, and this response can also involve ethylene. In this article we indicate how opposing effects of ethylene on plant growth can be brought about, by discussing a unifying, biphasic ethylene response model. To understand the mechanistic basis for this multitude of ethylene-mediated growth responses, the involvement of ethylene in processes that control cell expansion is also reviewed.

A contemporary view of motor development considers environmental influences as critical factors in optimal growth and behavior, with the home being the primary agent. The intent of this communication is to introduce the Affordances in the... more

A contemporary view of motor development considers environmental influences as critical factors in optimal growth and behavior, with the home being the primary agent. The intent of this communication is to introduce the Affordances in the Home Environment for Motor Development Self-Report (AHEMD-SR) to early childhood practitioners. The AHEMD-SR is a reliable and valid parental self-report assessment instrument that addresses the quality and quantity of factors (affordances and events) in the home that are conducive to enhancing motor development in children ages 18-42 months. The instrument could provide useful information in a wide variety of settings, including applications to intervention and remediation.

From 18 soil samples taken in the vicinity of the permanent Bulgarian Antarctic base "St. Kliment Ohridski" (62°38Ј29ЉS, 60°21Ј53ЉW) on Livingston Island, 109 Wlamentous fungi were isolated on selective media. The most widespread fungal... more

From 18 soil samples taken in the vicinity of the permanent Bulgarian Antarctic base "St. Kliment Ohridski" (62°38Ј29ЉS, 60°21Ј53ЉW) on Livingston Island, 109 Wlamentous fungi were isolated on selective media. The most widespread fungal species were members of the genera Cladosporium, Geomyces, Penicillium and Aspergillus. Other species, already recorded in Antarctic environment, were also isolated: Lecanicillium muscarium, Epicoccum nigrum and Alternaria alternata. Thirty strains demonstrating good growth were screened for antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) that play an important role in the defense of aerobic organisms against oxidative stress, by converting reactive oxygen species into nontoxic molecules. Six of them showed high enzyme activity. The tested strains produced SOD with statistically signiWcant higher activity at 15°C than at 30°C suggesting that this enzyme is cold-active. Such SOD could be useful in medicine and cosmetics. The best producer of cold-active SOD, Aspergillus glaucus 363, cultivated in bioreactors, demonstrated optimal growth temperature at 25°C and maximum enzyme activities at 25 and 30°C for SOD and CAT, respectively. The electrophoretical analysis showed that the fungus possesses Cu/Zn-SOD.

Human milk is regarded as the best nutrition for infants. However, when breastfeeding is not possible, desirable or sufficient, infant milk formulas serve as an adequate substitute for human milk. They have been designed to provide... more

Human milk is regarded as the best nutrition for infants. However, when breastfeeding is not possible, desirable or sufficient, infant milk formulas serve as an adequate substitute for human milk. They have been designed to provide infants with the required nutrients for optimal growth and development. In addition, infant milk formulas are now increasingly resembling human milk, for example in the area of bifidogenic effects. This review describes current trends in the design of infant formulas. Topics that will be discussed are long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, triacylglycerol palmitate, optimal protein concentration, the use of hydrolysed and soy protein, nucleotides and pre-and probiotics.

This paper studies an optimal endogenous growth model using physical capital, labor and two kinds of natural resources in the final goods sector and employing labor to accumulate knowledge. Based on results in calculus of variations, a... more

This paper studies an optimal endogenous growth model using physical capital, labor and two kinds of natural resources in the final goods sector and employing labor to accumulate knowledge. Based on results in calculus of variations, a direct proof of existence of optimal solution is provided. Analytical solutions for the planner case and the balanced growth paths are found for a specific CRRA utility and Cobb-Douglas production function. Transitional dynamics to the steady state from the theoretical model are used to derive three convergence equations of output intensity growth rate, exhaustible resource growth rate and renewable growth rate, which are tested based on data on production and energy consumption in 27 OECD countries.

The growth and survival of three size classes of wild caught western rock lobster, Panulirus cygnus (post-pueruli: mean 2.14 ± 0.07g, 13.2 ± 0.1 mm CL; year1: post-settlement juveniles, 57.1 ± 1.1g, 38.7 ± 0.28 mm CL; and year2... more

The growth and survival of three size classes of wild caught western rock lobster, Panulirus cygnus (post-pueruli: mean 2.14 ± 0.07g, 13.2 ± 0.1 mm CL; year1: post-settlement juveniles, 57.1 ± 1.1g, 38.7 ± 0.28 mm CL; and year2 post-settlement juveniles, mean 138.2 ± 2.26g, 51.9 ± 0.25mm CL) were examined at combinations of two stocking densities (post-pueruli: 50 and 100m − 2 ; year1: 11 and 23 m − 2 ; year2: 10 and 19 m − 2 ) and two shelter types (a novel rigid plastic mesh shelter or bricks) over a period of 6 months. Survival of lobsters held at the lower densities (90-95%) was significantly greater than for lobsters held at higher densities (post-pueruli = 78%, year1 = 86%, year2 = 88%). Post-pueruli survival was significantly higher in tanks with mesh shelters (91.7%) than brick shelters (75.8%) with a similar trend exhibited by year 1 and year 2 lobsters. Densities tested did not significantly affect lobster growth for any size class. Growth of post-pueruli was considerably higher in tanks with mesh shelters (641.7% weight gain; specific growth rate 1.07BW day − 1 ) (p < 0.05) but there was no difference in the growth of year1 and year2 lobsters between mesh and brick shelters. Feed intake (g pellet dry matter lobster − 1 day − 1 ) was not significantly different between densities. This study has shown that P. cygnus is well suited for aquaculture based on the collection and ongrowing of wild caught pueruli, as this species exhibits good survival at high densities (up to 100m − 2 ) without adverse effects on growth, and shows no captivity-related health problems. We recommend mesh shelters, with stocking densities of 50 m − 2 for post-pueruli and between 20 and 25 m − 2 for year1 and year2 juveniles, to maximise survival and production. Crown

A novel thermophilic anaerobic and microaerophilic bacterium (optimal growth in the presence of 5-10% O 2 ), strain Nad S1 T was isolated from the terrestrial hot spring of Hammam Sidi Jdidi, Nabeul, Tunisia. Cells were motile rods having... more

A novel thermophilic anaerobic and microaerophilic bacterium (optimal growth in the presence of 5-10% O 2 ), strain Nad S1 T was isolated from the terrestrial hot spring of Hammam Sidi Jdidi, Nabeul, Tunisia. Cells were motile rods having a Gram-positive cell wall structure. Strain Nad S1 T grew optimally at 55°C (range 37-70°C). Optimum pH for growth was 6.5-7.0. It was halotolerant growing with NaCl up to 7% (optimum concentration 1.5-3.0%). It grew chemoorganotrophically on various carbohydrates, organic-acids and amino-acids as energy sources, or chemolithotrophically on H 2 using nitrate, as terminal electron acceptor. Beside oxygen (under microaerobic conditions) and nitrate, nitrite was also used. Nitrate was completely reduced to N 2 . No fermentation occurred. The genomic DNA G ? C content was 41.8 mol%. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis, strain Nad S1 T belongs to the Bacillaceae family within the class 'Bacilli'. Because of its phylogenetic and phenotypic characteristics, we propose this isolate to be assigned as a novel genus and a novel species within the domain Bacteria, Microaerobacter geothermalis gen. nov., sp. nov. The type strain is Nad S1 T (=DSM 22679 T =JCM 16213 T ).

In this paper we use a stochastic programming approach to develop currency option hedging models which can address problems with multiple random factors in an imperfect market. The portfolios considered in our model are rebalanced at the... more

In this paper we use a stochastic programming approach to develop currency option hedging models which can address problems with multiple random factors in an imperfect market. The portfolios considered in our model are rebalanced at the end of each time period, and reinvestments are allowed during the hedging process. These sequential decisions (reinvestments) are based on the evolution of random parameters such as exchange rates, interest rates, etc. We also allow the inclusion of a variety of instruments in the hedging portfolio, including short term derivative securities, short term options, and futures. These instruments help generate strategies that provide good liquidity and low trade intensity. One of the important features of the model is that it incorporates constraints on sensitivity measures such as Delta and Gamma. By ensuring that these hedge parameters track a desired trajectory (e.g., the parameters of a target option), the new model provides investment strategies that are robust with respect to the perturbations measured by Delta and Gamma. In order to manage the explosion of scenarios due to multiple random factors, we incorporate sampling within a scenario aggregation algorithm. We illustrate that when compared with other myopic hedging methods in imperfect markets, the new stochastic programming model can provide better performance. Our examples also illustrate stochastic programming as a practical computational tool for realistic hedging problems.

Owing to its exceptional properties, monocrystalline diamond is one possible interesting candidate for high-power electronic applications if a suitable and reproducible process allowing the deposition of high-quality thick films within a... more

Owing to its exceptional properties, monocrystalline diamond is one possible interesting candidate for high-power electronic applications if a suitable and reproducible process allowing the deposition of high-quality thick films within a reasonable time is developed. In this paper, a Microwave Plasma-Assisted Chemical Vapour Deposition (MWPACVD) two-step process at high plasma density (microwave power 3200 W, pressure 220 mbar) has been

Tobramycin was found to be less inhibitory to Flavobacterium columnare (formerly Flexibacter columnaris) than to other fish-associated bacteria. The selective capacity of Shieh medium, an isolation medium described for this species, was... more

Tobramycin was found to be less inhibitory to Flavobacterium columnare (formerly Flexibacter columnaris) than to other fish-associated bacteria. The selective capacity of Shieh medium, an isolation medium described for this species, was markedly enhanced by adding tobramycin at a concentration of 1 microgram/ml.

Greenhouse control computers are an essential part of modern greenhouse operation. Climate, irrigation and nutrient supply must be controlled, in an economical way, to produce the best crop conditions. Current research on CO 2 enrichment... more

Greenhouse control computers are an essential part of modern greenhouse operation. Climate, irrigation and nutrient supply must be controlled, in an economical way, to produce the best crop conditions. Current research on CO 2 enrichment and optimal growth strategies implies the use of powerful tools, either based on hardware or software. This paper describes the design and implementation of a distributed data acquisition and control system for computerised agricultural management systems that is being developed at Universidade of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real. Different communications platform concepts, such as Controller Area Network (CAN), Wireless Technologies, Ethernet and Internet tools supported by Transfer Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and e-mail tools supported by Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) were used to achieve a network with a low-cost, flexible, and functional characteristics. The system management and maintenance tasks are divided into two types of performance levels. At a lower supervision level, a Local Controller placed in the greenhouses performs the monitoring/control and communications actions. The management decisions are performed at the higher level. The techniques and tools, which provide to the user a transparent, friendly and intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI) will be presented.

In aerobic process oxygen must be continuously supplied in order to achieve acceptable productivities, independently of the operation mode (batch, semi-continuous, or continuous). Since the role of oxygen in microorganism growth and its... more

In aerobic process oxygen must be continuously supplied in order to achieve acceptable productivities, independently of the operation mode (batch, semi-continuous, or continuous). Since the role of oxygen in microorganism growth and its metabolism is important, both the oxygen consumption by the cell and the oxygen transfer rate (OTR) into the system have to be studied. Aeration and agitation are important in promoting effective mass transfer into the liquid medium in the bioreactor, and the main function of a properly designed bioreactor is to provide a controlled environment and a concentration of nutrients (dissolved oxygen, mainly) sufficient to achieve optimal growth and/or optimal product formation in a particular bioprocess. Dissolved oxygen in the broths is the result of a balance of its consumption rate in the cells, and the rate of oxygen transfer from the gas to the liquid phase. In these conditions monitoring dissolved oxygen in the broth is mandatory because often oxygen may become a factor governing the metabolic pathways in microbial cells. In this work the oxygen uptake rate (OUR) in different fermentation broths is examined. Experimental techniques have been compiled from the literature and their applicability to microbial processes reviewed. Modelling of OUR is essential in aerobic microbial processes because in most of them dissolved oxygen concentration has an influence on the evolution of all the other compounds. Oxygen uptake rate is described taking into account that oxygen is used for three purposes: maintenance, cell growth and product formation. In the present study of the reciprocal influence of OUR and OTR is presented and an analysis of rate-limiting variables is carried out. Mathematical models are a fundamental tool in bioprocess design, optimization, scale up, operation and control at large scale fermentation. Kinetic models describing aerobic bioprocesses have to include an oxygen balance taking into account OTR and OUR. Different specific rate expressions for cell growth, substrate consumption, product formation and oxygen uptake have been developed and incorporated in the models, and simulations of different bioprocess have been carried out. Some of them are presented here *Reviewer Suggestions 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Typical models of mathematical finance admit equivalent martingale measures up to any finite time horizon but not globally, and this means that arbitrage opportunities arise in the long run. In this paper we derive explicit estimates for... more

Typical models of mathematical finance admit equivalent martingale measures up to any finite time horizon but not globally, and this means that arbitrage opportunities arise in the long run. In this paper we derive explicit estimates for asymptotic arbitrage, and we show how they are related to large deviation estimates for the market price of risk. As a case study we consider a geometric Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process. In this setting we also compute the optimal trading strategies and the resulting optimal growth rates of expected utility for all HARA utilities.

The growth of monocrystalline diamond films of electronic quality and large thickness (>few hundreds of microns) is an important issue in particular for high-power electronics. In this paper, we will describe the different key parameters... more

The growth of monocrystalline diamond films of electronic quality and large thickness (>few hundreds of microns) is an important issue in particular for high-power electronics. In this paper, we will describe the different key parameters necessary to reach this objective. First, we will examine the deposition process and establish that only microwave assisted diamond deposition plasma reactors can achieve the optimal growth conditions for the efficient generation of the precursor species to diamond growth. Next, we will consider the influence of the monocrystalline diamond substrate orientation and quality on the growth of the epitaxial layer, especially when the deposited material thickness exceeds 100 µm. The need to use a specific pre-treatment procedure of the substrate before the growth and its impact will also be discussed. Finally we will look at the growth conditions themselves and assess the influence of the process parameters, such as the substrate temperature, the methane concentration, the microwave power density and the eventual presence of nitrogen in the gas phase, on both the morphology and quality of the films on the one hand and the growth rate on the other hand. For this, we will introduce the concept of supersaturation and comment on its evolution as a function of the process parameters.

Summary WITCH -World Induced Technical Change Hybrid -is a regionally disaggregated hard-link hybrid global model with a neoclassical optimal growth structure (top-down) and a detailed energy input component (bottom-up). The model... more

Summary WITCH -World Induced Technical Change Hybrid -is a regionally disaggregated hard-link hybrid global model with a neoclassical optimal growth structure (top-down) and a detailed energy input component (bottom-up). The model endogenously accounts for technological change, both through learning curves that affect the prices of new vintages of capital and through R&D investments. The model features the main economic and environmental policies in each world region as the outcome of a dynamic game. WITCH belongs to the class of Integrated Assessment Models as it possesses a climate module that feeds climate changes back into the economy. Although the model's main features are discussed elsewhere , here we provide a more thorough discussion of the model's structure and baseline projections, to describe the model in greater detail. We report detailed information on the evolution of energy demand, technology and CO2 emissions. We also explain the procedure used to calibrate the model parameters. This report is therefore meant to provide effective support to those who intending to use the WITCH model or interpret its results.

An analytical study of a controlled-environment agricultural system for the hot and dry climate of Delhi has been carried out in terms of design parameters to provide favourable environmental conditions for the optimal growth of plants.... more

An analytical study of a controlled-environment agricultural system for the hot and dry climate of Delhi has been carried out in terms of design parameters to provide favourable environmental conditions for the optimal growth of plants. The effect of water flow over the greenhouse has also been incorporated in the thermal analysis. It is observed, analytically and numerically, that the flowrate of the water should be large to achieve minimum thermal flux into the controlled-environment agricultural system.

This review summarizes the microbial mechanisms responsible for removal of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur compounds in treatment wetlands (TWs) and identifies, categorizes and compares various techniques, from plate count to more modern... more

This review summarizes the microbial mechanisms responsible for removal of carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur compounds in treatment wetlands (TWs) and identifies, categorizes and compares various techniques, from plate count to more modern genomic methods used to elucidate these mechanisms. Removal of a particular pollutant is typically associated with a specific microbial functional group, therefore employment of design and operational methodologies that enhance the activity of that group will better optimize performance. Redox condition is a manipulable parameter that can be used to optimize growth of a targeted functional group, therefore factors influencing the TW redox condition and its influence on organic carbon removal mechanisms are emphasized. Environmental factors influencing growth and activity of N and S cycling microbes (including temperature, pH, salinity, plant species selection and availability of organic carbon and/or inhibiting substances) are discussed with particular attention to factors that might be manipulated. This information is used to offer design and operational methodologies that might enhance growth of a desirable microbial functional group and project what additional microbially-focused research is required to better optimize TW performance.

This paper examines, first, the conditions under which sustained economic growth and the preservation of environmental quality are compatible and optimal, and, second, in what way economic growth is affected by environmental policy. A... more

This paper examines, first, the conditions under which sustained economic growth and the preservation of environmental quality are compatible and optimal, and, second, in what way economic growth is affected by environmental policy. A general equilibrium one-sector model is developed in which the environment is essential for production and welfare. The growth rate is endogenously determined. Pollution occurs as an inevitable by-product of economic activity but can be reduced by spending a fraction of total output on abatement activities.

This article starts with a brief description of the origin and eutrophication of shallow Dutch lakes, followed by a review of the various lake restoration techniques in use and the results obtained. Most freshwater lakes in the... more

This article starts with a brief description of the origin and eutrophication of shallow Dutch lakes, followed by a review of the various lake restoration techniques in use and the results obtained. Most freshwater lakes in the Netherlands are very shallow (<2 m), and owe their origins to large-scale dredging and removal of peat during the early 17th century. They vary in area from a few hectares to a few thousand hectares, and are generally found in the northern and western part of the country. Most of them lie in the catchment areas of the major rivers: the Rhine, the Meuse and the Schelde. Because of their natural and aesthetic value, these lakes fulfil a recreational function. The lakes are important to the hydrology, water balance and agriculture in the surrounding polder country. The external input to the lakes of phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) and of polluted waters from the rivers and canals have been the major cause of eutrophication, which began during the 1950s. In addition, more recently climate changes, habitat fragmentation and biotic exploitation of many of these waters have probably led to loss of resilience and thus to accelerated eutrophication. Lake eutrophication is manifested essentially in the poor under-water light climate with high turbidity (Secchi-disc, 20-40 cm) caused usually by cyanobacterial blooms (e.g. Oscillatoria sp.), and loss of littoral vegetation. Despite recent perceptible reductions in external P inputs, non-point sources, especially of N from agriculture, still remain high and constitute a major challenge to the lake restorers. Lake recovery is also invariably afflicted by in-lake nutrient sources. These include P loading from the P-rich sediments, mineralization in the water and release by the foraging and metabolic activities of the abundant benthivorous and planktivorous fish, mainly bream (Abramis brama).

Nine temperatures (16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, and 32°C) within the natural range of distribution of the Cortez oyster Crassostrea corteziensis were tested in a first experiment to determine the optimal temperature for growth and... more

Nine temperatures (16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, and 32°C) within the natural range of distribution of the Cortez oyster Crassostrea corteziensis were tested in a first experiment to determine the optimal temperature for growth and survival. Based on these results, a second study assessed two temperatures above this range (34 and 36°C) to determine upper median lethal temperature for the species. The species was thermo-tolerant between 16-32°C, grew faster and larger at 24 to 30°C, and had optimal growth at 28-30°C. The lower tolerance of the species appears far from the lowest value tested (16°C). In contrast, the upper tolerance temperature was near 32°C, since 100% spat mortality occurred within 96 h at 34 and 36°C. These results are being used to develop a protocol for large-scale hatchery culture of the species in Mexico.

An alkaline protease producerBacillus licheniformis strain was isolated from Van Lake in Turkey. The strain is Gram positive, aerobic, motile, sporulating rod-shaped bacterium. Spores were ellipsoidal and positioned central in nonswollen... more

An alkaline protease producerBacillus licheniformis strain was isolated from Van Lake in Turkey. The strain is Gram positive, aerobic, motile, sporulating rod-shaped bacterium. Spores were ellipsoidal and positioned central in nonswollen sporangium. The cells were able to grow well at a pH range of 5.7–10. The optimal growth temperature was found to be 37 °C. Growth at a wide range of NaCl concentration (from 0 to 20%) showed that BA17 is halotolerant. Main fatty acid composition of BA17 was anteiso-C15:0 and iso-C15∶0. The strain was presumptively identified asB. licheniformis according to 16S rDNA gene sequence analysis. The most appropriate medium for the growth and protease production is composed of 0.5% yeast extract, 0.5% NaNO3, 0.02% MgSO4\7H2O, 0.1% K2HPO4 and 0.5% maltose. The optimum temperature and pH of the alkaline protease of strain BA17 were found to be 60 °C and pH 11, respectively. The activity was completely lost in the presence of PMSF, suggesting that the preparation contains serine-alkaline protease(s).

We have studied the MOVPE regrowth of AlGaAs over a grating for GaAs-based laser diodes with an internal wavelength stabilisation. Growth temperature and aluminium concentration in the regrown layers considerably affect the oxygen... more

We have studied the MOVPE regrowth of AlGaAs over a grating for GaAs-based laser diodes with an internal wavelength stabilisation. Growth temperature and aluminium concentration in the regrown layers considerably affect the oxygen incorporation. Structural characterisation by transmission electron microscopy of the grating after regrowth shows the formation of quaternary InGaAsP regions due to the diffusion of indium atoms from the top InGaP layer and As-P exchange processes during the heating-up procedure. Additionally, the growth over such gratings with different facets leads to selforganisation of the aluminium content in the regrown AlGaAs layer, resulting in an additional AlGaAs grating, which has to be taken into account for the estimation of the coupling coefficient.

It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that child-care programs should achieve recommended benchmarks for meeting children's nutrition needs in a safe, sanitary, and supportive environment that promotes optimal growth and... more

It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that child-care programs should achieve recommended benchmarks for meeting children's nutrition needs in a safe, sanitary, and supportive environment that promotes optimal growth and development. Use of child care has become increasingly common and is now the norm for the majority of families in the United States. Therefore, it is essential that registered dietitians; dietetic technicians, registered; and other food and nutrition practitioners work in partnership with child-care providers and families of children in child care to meet children's nutrition needs and provide them with models of healthful eating and active lifestyles. This Position Paper provides guidance for food and nutrition practitioners, health professionals, and child-care providers regarding recommendations for nutritional quality of foods and beverages served; menus, meal patterns, and portion sizes; food preparation and service; physical and social environment; nutrition training; nutrition consultation; physical activity and active play; and working with families. This Position Paper targets children aged 2 to 5 years attending child-care programs and highlights opportunities for food and nutrition practitioners to promote healthful eating in child care through both intervention and policy-based initiatives.

Results on the achievable growth temperature as a function of the reactor pressure for the growth of InN by high-pressure CVD are presented. As the reactor pressure was increased from 1 bar to 19 bar, the optimal growth temperature raised... more

Results on the achievable growth temperature as a function of the reactor pressure for the growth of InN by high-pressure CVD are presented. As the reactor pressure was increased from 1 bar to 19 bar, the optimal growth temperature raised from 759°C to 876°C, an increase of 6.6 °C/bar. The InN layers were grown in a horizontal flow channel reactor, using a pulsed precursor injection scheme. The structural and optical properties of the epilayers have been investigated by Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and IR reflectance spectroscopy.

Rhythmic gymnasts performing under conditions of high intensity are exposed to particularly high levels of psychological stress and intense physical training, factors that can contribute to the observed delay in skeletal maturation and... more

Rhythmic gymnasts performing under conditions of high intensity are exposed to particularly high levels of psychological stress and intense physical training, factors that can contribute to the observed delay in skeletal maturation and pubertal development, and alter optimal growth.

Ngoài phần giới thiệu môn học, nội dung cơ bản của chương I: Nêu và giải thích khái niệm "phát triển nông thôn". Theo khái niệm này, phát triển nông thôn là: "một quá trình tất yếu cải thiện một cách bền vững về kinh tế, xã hội, văn hóa... more

Ngoài phần giới thiệu môn học, nội dung cơ bản của chương I: Nêu và giải thích khái niệm "phát triển nông thôn". Theo khái niệm này, phát triển nông thôn là: "một quá trình tất yếu cải thiện một cách bền vững về kinh tế, xã hội, văn hóa và môi trường, nhằm nâng cao chất lượng cuộc sống của dân cư nông thôn. Quá trình này, trước hết chính là do người dân nông thôn với sự hỗ trợ tích cực của Nhà nước và các tổ chức khác".

Screening of bacteria from diVerent areas of Howz Soltan playa, a hypersaline lake in the central desert zone of Iran, led to the isolation of 231 moderately halophilic bacteria, which were able to grow optimally in media with 5-15% of... more

Screening of bacteria from diVerent areas of Howz Soltan playa, a hypersaline lake in the central desert zone of Iran, led to the isolation of 231 moderately halophilic bacteria, which were able to grow optimally in media with 5-15% of salt, and 49 extremely halophilic microorganisms that required 20-25% of salt for optimal growth. These isolates produced a great variety of extracellular hydrolytic enzymes. A total of 195, 177, 100, 95, 92, 68, 65, 33, and 28 strains produced lipases, amylases, proteases, inulinases, xylanases, cellulases, pullulanases, DNases, and pectinases, respectively. In comparison with gram-negative bacteria, the gram-positive halophilic rods, showed more hydrolytic activities. Several combined activities were showed by some of these isolates. One strain presented 9 hydrolytic activities, 4 strains presented 8 hydrolytic activities, 10 strains presented 7 hydrolytic activities and 29 strains presented 6 hydrolytic activities. No halophilic isolate without hydrolytic activity has been found in this study. According to their phenotypic characteristics and comparative partial 16S rRNA sequence analysis, the halophilic strains were identiWed as members of the genera: Salicola, Halovibrio, Halomonas, Oceanobacillus, Thalassobacillus, Halobacillus, Virgibacillus, Gracilibacillus, Salinicoccus, and Piscibacillus. Most lipase and DNase producers were members of the genera Gracilibacillus and Halomonas, respectively, whereas most of the isolates able to produce hydrolytic enzymes such as amylase, protease, cellulose (CMCase) and inulinase, belonged to gram-positive genera, like Gracilibacillus, Thalassobacillus, Virgibacillus, and Halobacillus.

Citrate synthases from Thermoplasma acidophilum (optimal growth at 55 degrees C) and Pyrococcus furiosus (100 degrees C) are homo-dimeric enzymes that show a high degree of structural homology with each other, and thermostabilities... more

Citrate synthases from Thermoplasma acidophilum (optimal growth at 55 degrees C) and Pyrococcus furiosus (100 degrees C) are homo-dimeric enzymes that show a high degree of structural homology with each other, and thermostabilities commensurate with the environmental temperatures in which their host cells are found. A comparison of their atomic structures with citrate synthases from mesophilic and psychrophilic organisms has indicated the potential importance of inter-subunit contacts for thermostability, and here we report the construction and analysis of site-directed mutants of the two citrate synthases to investigate the contribution of these interactions. Three sets of mutants were made: (a) chimeric mutants where the large (inter-subunit contact) and small (catalytic) domains of the T. acidophilum and P. furiosus enzymes were swapped; (b) mutants of the P. furiosus citrate synthase where the inter-subunit ionic network is disrupted; and (c) P. furiosus citrate synthase mutants...

The performance of individual phytoplankton species is strongly governed by the thermal stratification's impact on vertical mixing within the water column, which alters the position of phytoplankton relative to nutrients and light. The... more

The performance of individual phytoplankton species is strongly governed by the thermal stratification's impact on vertical mixing within the water column, which alters the position of phytoplankton relative to nutrients and light. The present study documents shifts in phytoplankton structure and vertical positioning that have accompanied intensified long-term stratification in a natural ecosystem. Ordination analysis is used to extract gradients in phytoplankton composition in Lake Tahoe, an extremely nutrientpoor lake, over a 23-year period of records. Community structure in the 1980s was associated most strongly with resource availability (low nitrogen to phosphorus ratios, deeper euphotic zone depth), while intensified stratification dominated the phytoplankton structure since the late 1990s. Within diatoms, small-sized cells increased with reduced mixing, suggesting that suppressed turbulence provides them with a competitive advantage over large-sized cells. Among the morphologically diverse chlorophytes, filamentous and coenobial forms were favored under intensified stratification. The selection for small-sized diatoms is accompanied by a shoaling trend in their vertical position in the water column. In contrast, the motile flagellates displayed a deeper vertical positioning in recent years, indicating that optimal growth conditions shifted likely due to reduced upwelling of nutrients. As the thermal stratification of lakes and oceans is strongly linked to climate variables, the present study confirms that climate warming will alter phytoplankton structure and dynamics largely through effects on nutrient availability and sinking velocities. Intensified stratification should favor the expansion of small-sized species and species with the capability of buoyancy regulation, which may alter primary productivity, nutrient recycling, and higher trophic productivity.

Successful embryonic implantation implies anchoring the conceptus in the maternal uterine wall, establishing a vascular supply to enable optimal growth and development of the conceptus, and promoting tolerance of fetal alloantigens... more

Successful embryonic implantation implies anchoring the conceptus in the maternal uterine wall, establishing a vascular supply to enable optimal growth and development of the conceptus, and promoting tolerance of fetal alloantigens encoded by paternal genes. To achieve these goals, complex molecular dialogues take place among the maternal endometrium, the conceptus, and the placenta. Several factors are involved in the fetal-maternal interaction, including hormones, growth factors, cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, extracellular matrix components, and matrix-degrading enzymes. This complex cross-talk results in the induction of a local inflammatory response and a state of systemic inflammation, as revealed by leukocytosis, endothelium activation, increased activity of innate immune cells, and increased levels of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The enriched cytokine milieu associated to implantation is likely to control trophoblast migration and differentiation, leukocyte influx and activation, complement activation, as well as angiogenic and angiostatic processes in the implantation site. Finally, these mediators play a key role in tuning the immune responses to protect the fetus from infections as well as from maternal rejection. Here, the role of pro-inflammatory networks activated in implantation will be discussed. In particular, emphasis will be put on two new players involved in regulating inflammation at the maternal-fetal interface: the long pentraxin PTX3 and the decoy receptor for inflammatory chemokines D6.

Micropropagated Choisya, Daphne, Delphinium, Hemerocallis, Hosta, Iris and Photinia were found to adjust the pH of Murashige and Skoog's plant tissue culture medium (initial pH 5.6 or 3.5) to different values depending on the species.... more

Micropropagated Choisya, Daphne, Delphinium, Hemerocallis, Hosta, Iris and Photinia were found to adjust the pH of Murashige and Skoog's plant tissue culture medium (initial pH 5.6 or 3.5) to different values depending on the species. When plant growth and rooting rates were determined after plants had been grown on media initially adjusted or buffered to values between 2.6 and 5.7 the different plant species were also found to have distinct pH requirements for optimal growth and/or rooting rates.

After hundreds of generations of adaptive evolution at exponential growth, Escherichia coli grows as predicted using flux balance analysis (FBA) on genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs). However, it is not known whether the predicted... more

After hundreds of generations of adaptive evolution at exponential growth, Escherichia coli grows as predicted using flux balance analysis (FBA) on genome-scale metabolic models (GEMs). However, it is not known whether the predicted pathway usage in FBA solutions is consistent with gene and protein expression in the wild-type and evolved strains. Here, we report that 498% of active reactions from FBA optimal growth solutions are supported by transcriptomic and proteomic data. Moreover, when E. coli adapts to growth rate selective pressure, the evolved strains upregulate genes within the optimal growth predictions, and downregulate genes outside of the optimal growth solutions. In addition, bottlenecks from dosage limitations of computationally predicted essential genes are overcome in the evolved strains. We also identify regulatory processes that may contribute to the development of the optimal growth phenotype in the evolved strains, such as the downregulation of known regulons and stringent response suppression. Thus, differential gene and protein expression from wild-type and adaptively evolved strains supports observed growth phenotype changes, and is consistent with GEM-computed optimal growth states.

This work studied a bioremediation process of silver nanoparticles with the bacterium Chromobacterium violaceum. These nanoparticles were obtained from several washes of cotton fabrics impregnated with silver nanoparticles produced by the... more

This work studied a bioremediation process of silver nanoparticles with the bacterium Chromobacterium violaceum. These nanoparticles were obtained from several washes of cotton fabrics impregnated with silver nanoparticles produced by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum. The optimized growth of C. violaceum for silver nanoparticles bioremediation was obtained. The effluents of wash process of the cotton fabric were efficiently treated with C. violaceum. This treatment was based on biosorption which was very efficient for the elimination of silver nanoparticles remaining in the wash water. The bacteria after biosorption were morphologically transformed, but the normal morphology after a new culture was completely restored. The process also allowed the recovery of silver material that was leached into the effluent for a reutilization avoiding any effect to the eco-environment.

Abstract In this work, we report on the growth by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) of GaN layers on AlN/Si (111) templates with step-graded AlGaN intermediate layers. First, we will discuss the optimization of the AlN/Si (111)... more

Abstract In this work, we report on the growth by metalorganic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) of GaN layers on AlN/Si (111) templates with step-graded AlGaN intermediate layers. First, we will discuss the optimization of the AlN/Si (111) templates and then we will discuss the ...

Extraction of intact RNA is essential for quantitative gene expression analysis. Isolating high quality RNA from gram-positive bacteria is known to be problematic particularly from organisms that have optimal growth temperatures greater... more

Extraction of intact RNA is essential for quantitative gene expression analysis. Isolating high quality RNA from gram-positive bacteria is known to be problematic particularly from organisms that have optimal growth temperatures greater than 45 °C. We report a novel extraction protocol for the rapid isolation of fully intact RNA from thermophilic Geobacillus thermoleovorans using a lysing matrix containing a mixture of ceramic and glass beads, triisopropylnaphthalene sulfonic acid (TNS), and p-4-aminosalicyclic acid (PAS). Combining both detergents, TNS and PAS, appeared to increase denaturation of RNases at thermophilic temperatures. Gel electrophoresis revealed that only RNA isolated using the TNS-PAS procedure demonstrated sharp, undegraded 23S, 16S, and 5S ribosomal RNA bands. RNA extracted from geobacilli using commercially available kits was extensively degraded and was not suitable for detecting gene expression. Total RNA yields extracted with the TNS-PAS protocol were greater than eightfold higher than those obtained with available kits. Critically, it was also shown that only RNA isolated with the TNS-PAS-based method was suitable for monitoring thermophile gene expression patterns using RT-PCR analysis.

This investigation deals with the effect of growth temperature on the growth behavior of Fe filled multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Carbon nanotube (CNT) synthesis was carried out in a thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD)... more

This investigation deals with the effect of growth temperature on the growth behavior of Fe filled multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Carbon nanotube (CNT) synthesis was carried out in a thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor in the temperature range 650–950 °C using propane as the carbon source, Fe as the catalyst material, and Si as the catalyst support. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis of the catalyst exhibits that at elevated temperature clusters of catalyst coalesce and form macroscopic islands. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) results show that with increased growth temperature the average diameter of the nanotubes increases but their density decreases. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) studies suggest that the nanotubes have multi-walled structure with partial Fe filling for all growth temperatures. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern of the grown materials indicates that they are graphitic in nature. The characterization of nanotubes by Raman spectroscopy reveals that the optimized growth temperature for Fe filled CNTs is 850 °C, in terms of quality. A simple model for the growth of Fe filled carbon nanotubes is proposed.

We have isolated from a Kentucky stream a bacterial strain capable of killing the cyst form of Giardia lamblia. This bacterium, designated Sun4, is a Gram-negative, aerobic rod which produces a yellow pigment, but not of the... more

We have isolated from a Kentucky stream a bacterial strain capable of killing the cyst form of Giardia lamblia. This bacterium, designated Sun4, is a Gram-negative, aerobic rod which produces a yellow pigment, but not of the flexirubin-type. Although true gliding motility has not been observed in Sun4, this strain does exhibit a spreading colony morphology when grown on R2A agar. Strain Sun4 has been identified by 16S rRNA sequencing and phylogenetic analysis as belonging to the genus Flavobacterium, and is most closely related to Cytophaga sp. strain Type 0092 and associated Flavobacterium columnare strains. Lipid analysis also identified fatty acids characteristic of the Cytophaga–Flavobacterium group of bacteria. In culture, Sun4 is able to degrade casein and cellulose, but not chitin, gelatin, starch, or agar. Degradation of Giardia cysts by Sun4 appears to require direct cellular contact as neither cell-free extracts nor cells separated from the cysts by dialysis membranes showed any activity against cysts. Activity against Giardia cysts is rapid, with Sun4 killing over 90% of cysts within 48 h. Strain Sun4 requires elevated levels of Ca2+ for optimal growth and degradative activity against Giardia cysts. We propose that bacterial strains such as Sun4 could be used as biological control agents against Giardia cysts in drinking water treatment systems.

Background: The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life for optimal growth, development and health. Breastfeeding should continue up to two years or more and nutritionally... more

Background: The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life for optimal growth, development and health. Breastfeeding should continue up to two years or more and nutritionally adequate, safe, and appropriately-fed complementary foods should be introduced at the age of six months to meet the evolving needs of the growing infant. Little evidence exists on breastfeeding and infant feeding practices in urban slums in sub-Saharan Africa. Our aim was to assess breastfeeding and infant feeding practices in Nairobi slums with reference to WHO recommendations. Methods: Data from a longitudinal study conducted in two Nairobi slums are used. The study used information on the first year of life of 4299 children born between September 2006 and January 2010. All women who gave birth during this period were interviewed on breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices at recruitment and this information was updated twice, at four-monthly intervals. Cox proportional hazard analysis was used to determine factors associated with cessation of breastfeeding in infancy and early introduction of complementary foods. Results: There was universal breastfeeding with almost all children (99%) having ever been breastfed. However, more than a third (37%) were not breastfed in the first hour following delivery, and 40% were given something to drink other than the mothers' breast milk within 3 days after delivery. About 85% of infants were still breastfeeding by the end of the 11 th month. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months was rare as only about 2% of infants were exclusively breastfed for six months. Factors associated with sub-optimal infant breastfeeding and feeding practices in these settings include child's sex; perceived size at birth; mother's marital status, ethnicity; education level; family planning (pregnancy desirability); health seeking behaviour (place of delivery) and; neighbourhood (slum of residence).

Greenhouse control computers are an essential part of modern greenhouse operation. Climate, irrigation and nutrient supply must be controlled, in an economical way, to produce the best crop conditions. Current research on CO 2 enrichment... more

Greenhouse control computers are an essential part of modern greenhouse operation. Climate, irrigation and nutrient supply must be controlled, in an economical way, to produce the best crop conditions. Current research on CO 2 enrichment and optimal growth strategies implies the use of powerful tools, either based on hardware or software. This paper describes the design and implementation of a distributed data acquisition and control system for computerised agricultural management systems that is being developed at Universidade of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, Vila Real. Different communications platform concepts, such as Controller Area Network (CAN), Wireless Technologies, Ethernet and Internet tools supported by Transfer Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) and e-mail tools supported by Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) were used to achieve a network with a low-cost, flexible, and functional characteristics. The system management and maintenance tasks are divided into two types of performance levels. At a lower supervision level, a Local Controller placed in the greenhouses performs the monitoring/control and communications actions. The management decisions are performed at the higher level. The techniques and tools, which provide to the user a transparent, friendly and intuitive Graphical User Interface (GUI) will be presented.

Ants of the myrmicine tribe Attini live in symbiosis with a fungus that provides them with food. In return the ants maintain optimal growth conditions for the fungus, weed out competing microorganisms, and inhibit the growth conditions of... more

Ants of the myrmicine tribe Attini live in symbiosis with a fungus that provides them with food. In return the ants maintain optimal growth conditions for the fungus, weed out competing microorganisms, and inhibit the growth conditions of these competitors by chemical means. We present a comprehensive analysis of metapleural gland secretions of Acromyrmex octospinosus, using a recently developed method for the analysis of polar compounds by gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. We show that the chemical identity and quantitative recovery of different compounds in the metapleural gland secretion depends upon the method used and the type of colony from which the samples are taken. In addition to the two compounds previously recorded in the metapleural gland secretion of Acromyrmex ants (indolacetic acid and myrmicacin), 20 new compounds were detected in the secretion of a random sample of workers from two laboratory colonies and two field colonies. These compounds span the whole range of carboxylic acids from acetic acid to the long-chain fatty acids but comprise also some alcohols, lactones, and keto acids. The possible function of this highly complex secretion mixture is discussed.

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC), NADP-malic enzyme (NADP-ME), and pyruvate, phosphate dikinase (PPDK) participate in the process of concentrating CO 2 in C 4 photosynthesis. Non-photosynthetic counterparts of these enzymes, which... more

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC), NADP-malic enzyme (NADP-ME), and pyruvate, phosphate dikinase (PPDK) participate in the process of concentrating CO 2 in C 4 photosynthesis. Non-photosynthetic counterparts of these enzymes, which are present in all plants, play important roles in the maintenance of pH and replenishment of Krebs cycle intermediates, thereby contributing to the biosynthesis of amino acids and other compounds and providing NADPH for biosynthesis and the antioxidant system. Enhanced activities of PEPC and/or NADP-ME and/or PPDK were found in plants under various types of abiotic stress, such as drought, high salt concentration, ozone, the absence of phosphate and iron or the presence of heavy metals in the soil. Moreover, the activities of all of these enzymes were enhanced in plants under biotic stress caused by viral infection. The functions of PEPC, NADP-ME and PPDK appear to be more important for plants under stress than under optimal growth conditions.

The possibility of combining novel monitoring techniques and precision spraying for crop protection in the future is discussed. A generic model for an innovative crop protection system has been used as a framework. This system will be... more

The possibility of combining novel monitoring techniques and precision spraying for crop protection in the future is discussed. A generic model for an innovative crop protection system has been used as a framework. This system will be able to monitor the entire cropping system and identify the presence of relevant pests, diseases and weeds online, and will be location specific.

Bvevibactevium linens can grow in media of relatively high osmotic strength (up to 3 M-NaCl). Optimal growth in minimal medium occurred with either added NaCl(O.5-1 M) or other osmolytes developing an equivalent osmotic pressure. Above 1... more

Bvevibactevium linens can grow in media of relatively high osmotic strength (up to 3 M-NaCl). Optimal growth in minimal medium occurred with either added NaCl(O.5-1 M) or other osmolytes developing an equivalent osmotic pressure. Above 1 M-NaCl the growth rate slowed, but was enhanced by adding the osmoprotectant glycine betaine or its precursor choline (1 mM) to the media. Neither soluble carbohydrates nor ninhydrin-reacting compounds accumulated during osmotic treatment. However, a Dragendorff-positive compound, together with K' ions, accumulated (7-fold) as a consequence of elevating the medium osmolality. Spectral characteristics of the purified compound were similar to those of synthesized 1,4,5,6-tetrahydro-2-methyl-4-pyrimidinecarboxylic acid (ectoine). In the absence of exogenously supplied osmoprotectants, a strict dependence between the intracellular ectoine content and the external salt concentration (up to 1 M-NaCl) was observed. From 1 to 2 M-NaCl, the ectoine content decreased, and this signalled decreased self-osmoprotection by this bacterium. Interestingly, at these salt concentrations, exogenous glycine betaine led to the greatest beneficial effect. Glycine betaine or choline added to the medium was actively taken up by the cells in an osmolality-dependent manner, and the resulting betaine accumulation caused a sharp decrease in intracellular ectoine content. Radiolabelling of ectoine occurred only when ~-[U-'~C]glutamate was used as a precursor; de novo synthesis was dependent on the external osmolality and was strongly inhibited by exogenously supplied glycine betaine. These results imply that ectoine may play a major role in counteracting the effects of osmotic stress in media of osmotic pressure equivalent to < 1 M-NaCl.

Many physiological studies have addressed the effects of environmental factors affecting cyanobacteria growth and Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 in particular. However, multifactorial studies are scarce. In this work, the influence of... more

Many physiological studies have addressed the effects of environmental factors affecting cyanobacteria growth and Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 in particular. However, multifactorial studies are scarce. In this work, the influence of different parameters such as temperature, irradiance, nitrate concentration, pH, and an external carbon source on Synechocystis growth was evaluated [1]. A high-throughput system equivalent to batch cultures, with 4.5 ml cuvettes containing 2 ml of culture, was used. Gas exchange was ensured by the use of a ParafilmTM cover. The effect of the different variables on maximum growth was assessed by a multi-way statistical analysis. Temperature and pH were identified as the key factors. It was observed that Synechocystis cells have a strong influence on the external pH. The optimal growth temperature, for these experiment settings, was 33°C while light-saturating conditions were reached at 40 µE m -2 s -1 . It was demonstrated that Synechocystis exhibits a marked difference in behavior between autotrophic and glucose-based mixotrophic conditions, and that for the duration of the experiments, nitrate concentrations did not have a significant influence on growth, probably due to endogenous nitrogen reserves. Furthermore, a dynamic metabolic model of Synechocystis photosynthesis was developed to gain insights on the underlying mechanism enabling this cyanobacterium to control the levels of external pH. The model showed a coupled effect between the increase of the pH and ATP production which in turn allows a higher carbon fixation rate.

Zinc supplementation has been shown to benefit linear growth. However the effect may depend on whether zinc is the most limiting nutrient. This study aims to investigate the effect of supplementation with zinc-given alone or with iron and... more

Zinc supplementation has been shown to benefit linear growth. However the effect may depend on whether zinc is the most limiting nutrient. This study aims to investigate the effect of supplementation with zinc-given alone or with iron and vitamin-A in improving infantsf micronutrient status and linear growth. The study was a double-blind-community-intervention study involving 800 infants aged 3-6 months in rural East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara. Syrup consisting of zinc-alone, Zn (10 mg/d), zinc+iron, Zn+Fe (10 mg/d of each), zinc+iron+vitamin-A, Zn+Fe+vit.A (10 mg/d of each zinc and iron plus 1,000 IU vitamin-A), or placebo were given daily for six months. Outcomes measured were length, weight, and micronutrient status (haemoglobin, se-rum zinc, ferritin and retinol). Zn+Fe and Zn+Fe+vit.A supplementations benefit zinc and iron status of the sub-jects, while Zn-alone supplementation disadvantaged haemoglobin and iron status. The highest increment in vi-tamin A and haemoglobin status...

SUMMARY Among 26 isolates of Phytophthora capsici from pep- per and zucchini plants collected mainly in Piedmont (northern Italy) 19 belonged to A1, 3 to A2 mating type and 4 were homothallic. All the isolates grew between 10 and 38°C... more

SUMMARY Among 26 isolates of Phytophthora capsici from pep- per and zucchini plants collected mainly in Piedmont (northern Italy) 19 belonged to A1, 3 to A2 mating type and 4 were homothallic. All the isolates grew between 10 and 38°C showing significant differences in mycelial growth and optimal growth temperature in the range of 25-32°C. 65.4% of the isolates were

Two experiments were conducted to investigate the active components of soybean lecithin for juvenile Litopenaeus vannamei. The first experiment was conducted to determine the dietary phosphatidylcholine (PC) requirement of juvenile L.... more

Two experiments were conducted to investigate the active components of soybean lecithin for juvenile Litopenaeus vannamei. The first experiment was conducted to determine the dietary phosphatidylcholine (PC) requirement of juvenile L. vannamei, and to investigate whether other phospholipids (PL), mainly phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylinositol (PI) were the active fractions of soybean lecithin. Seven levels of PC (0%, 0.35%, 0.7%, 1.4%, 2.1%, 2.8%, 4.2%) extracted from soybean lecithin (PC purity 93%) were used to determine the PC requirement; also, PE and PI (in a 25:22 proportion) were tested at 0.84% and 1.68% levels with PC levels controlled at 0.35% and 0.52% of diet to investigate the combined PE and PI effects. Results showed that no dietary PC requirement was evident based on shrimp growth and survival. Increasing purified PC in the diet decreased total lipid, free fatty acid and other PL levels in shrimp hepatopancreas (mid-gut gland) and increased PC level in shrimp muscle. However, other PL, mainly PE and PI, showed significant enhancing effects on shrimp growth when PC was provided at 0.35% or 0.52% of diet.Another 4×2 factorial experiment was concluded to reevaluate the requirement of shrimp for PC by including purified PC at 0%, 0.7%, 1.4 % and 2.8% of diet with or without 0.1% cholesterol in the diet. A diet containing 1.4% PC provided by deoiled lecithin also was tested for comparison. Results showed no interaction between PC and cholesterol on shrimp growth, survival and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Compared with the apparent growth-enhancing effect of dietary cholesterol, the effect of purified PC was negligible. With PC at 1.4% of diet, the presence of other PL from lecithin or 0.1% cholesterol significantly enhanced shrimp growth and FCR.In summary, purified soybean PC showed different effects from deoiled lecithin on shrimp growth, lipid composition, and relationship with dietary cholesterol. Beneficial effects of soybean lecithin on growth of L. vannamei could be attributed to the presence of PL other than PC in the diet under the experimental conditions of this study.