Regional Variations in the Risk and Severity of Ciguatera Caused by Eating Moray Eels.

PubMed

Chan, Thomas Y K

2017-06-26

Moray eels ( Gymnothorax species) from tropical waters have long been known to be high-risk species, and the consumption of particularly the viscera or ungutted eels can result in severe ciguatera (known as Gymnothorax or moray eel poisoning), characterized by prominent neurological features. In this review, the main objective was to describe the risk and severity of ciguatera caused by eating moray eels in different parts of the world. Moray eels can accumulate very high ciguatoxin (CTX) levels in the flesh and particularly the liver. Therefore, even the smaller ones can be toxic and the consumption of an average portion (particularly liver) can result in severe or fatal ciguatera. Moray eels (particularly when ungutted) must never be served in gatherings since they can cause mass poisoning because of their large sizes and high CTX levels. Apart from regulatory measures restricting or excluding access, the public should be repeatedly warned to avoid eating moray eels.

Regional Variations in the Risk and Severity of Ciguatera Caused by Eating Moray Eels

PubMed Central

Chan, Thomas Y. K.

2017-01-01

Moray eels (Gymnothorax species) from tropical waters have long been known to be high-risk species, and the consumption of particularly the viscera or ungutted eels can result in severe ciguatera (known as Gymnothorax or moray eel poisoning), characterized by prominent neurological features. In this review, the main objective was to describe the risk and severity of ciguatera caused by eating moray eels in different parts of the world. Moray eels can accumulate very high ciguatoxin (CTX) levels in the flesh and particularly the liver. Therefore, even the smaller ones can be toxic and the consumption of an average portion (particularly liver) can result in severe or fatal ciguatera. Moray eels (particularly when ungutted) must never be served in gatherings since they can cause mass poisoning because of their large sizes and high CTX levels. Apart from regulatory measures restricting or excluding access, the public should be repeatedly warned to avoid eating moray eels. PMID:28672845

The first success of glass eel production in the world: basic biology on fish reproduction advances new applied technology in aquaculture.

PubMed

Kagawa, Hirohiko; Tanaka, Hideki; Ohta, Hiromi; Unuma, Tatsuya; Nomura, Kazuharu

2005-04-01

The eel has long been esteemed as an important food fish in the world, especially in Japan, and has been used as an experimental fish for many fields of fish physiology. However, the decreases in eel resources have been a serious concern in recent years. The catches of glass eels as seedlings for aquaculture have shown a long-term decrease in both Europe and East Asia. To increase eel resources, the development of techniques for artificial induction of maturation and spawning and rearing their larvae have been eagerly desired. Recent progress of reproductive physiology of fish, especially mechanisms of oocyte maturation and ovulation in female and of spermatozoa maturation in male, facilitate to establish techniques for hormonal induction of maturation and spawning in sexually immature eels. With persistent effort to development of rearing techniques of larvae, we have first succeeded to produce glass eel. These applied techniques are may contribute to understand the basic reproductive physiology of the eel.

Brominated flame retardants and Dechloranes in European and American eels from glass to silver life stages.

PubMed

Sühring, Roxana; Byer, Jonathan; Freese, Marko; Pohlmann, Jan-Dag; Wolschke, Hendrik; Möller, Axel; Hodson, Peter V; Alaee, Mehran; Hanel, Reinhold; Ebinghaus, Ralf

2014-12-01

The populations of American (Anguilla rostrata) and European eels (Anguilla anguilla) have been declining rapidly in the last decades. Organic contaminants are suspected to be one of the possible causes for the decline; however, so far there have been few investigations of the uptake of specific compounds by different life cycle stages (e.g. freshwater or marine stage) and how the contamination patterns develop throughout the eel's life cycle. In the present study we measured concentrations of polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs), alternate brominated flame retardants (alternate BFRs) and Dechloranes (Decs) in different life stages of European and American eels to compare the contamination patterns and their development throughout the eel's life cycle. In general, concentrations of flame retardants (FRs) were similar to or higher in American than in European eels, and a greater number of FRs were detected. PBDE congeners that are characteristic of the Penta-PBDE formulation were the most abundant FRs in all adult eels as well as American glass eels. In European glass eels the alternate BFR 2,3-dibromopropyl-2,4,6-tribromophenylether (DPTE) and Dechlorane Plus were the dominating FRs, with average concentrations of 1.1±0.31 ng g(-1) ww and up to 0.32 ng g(-1) ww respectively. Of the PBDEs BDE-183 was the most abundant congener in European glass eels. Low concentrations (less than 10% of the total contamination) of Tetra and Penta-PBDEs in juvenile European eels indicated that bans of technical Penta-PBDE in the European Union are effective. Enrichment of PBDEs was observed over the life stages of both European and American eels. However, a greater relative contribution of PBDEs to the sum FR contamination in American eels indicated an on-going exposure to these substances. High contributions of alternate BFRs in juvenile eels indicated an increased use of these substances in recent years. Concentrations seemed to be driven primarily by location, rather than life stage or age. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy (EELS)Calculation in Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) Package: EELS-FDTD

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Large, Nicolas; Cao, Yang; Manjavacas, Alejandro; Nordlander, Peter

2015-03-01

Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) is a unique tool that is extensively used to investigate the plasmonic response of metallic nanostructures since the early works in the '50s. To be able to interpret and theoretically investigate EELS results, a myriad of different numerical techniques have been developed for EELS simulations (BEM, DDA, FEM, GDTD, Green dyadic functions). Although these techniques are able to predict and reproduce experimental results, they possess significant drawbacks and are often limited to highly symmetrical geometries, non-penetrating trajectories, small nanostructures, and free standing nanostructures. We present here a novel approach for EELS calculations using the Finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method: EELS-FDTD. We benchmark our approach by direct comparison with results from the well-established boundary element method (BEM) and published experimental results. In particular, we compute EELS spectra for spherical nanoparticles, nanoparticle dimers, nanodisks supported by various substrates, and gold bowtie antennas on a silicon nitride substrate. Our EELS-FDTD implementation can be easily extended to more complex geometries and configurations and can be directly implemented within other numerical methods. Work funded by the Welch Foundation (C-1222, L-C-004), and the NSF (CNS-0821727, OCI-0959097).

Toxicity of 5% rotenone to nonindigenous Asian swamp eels

USGS Publications Warehouse

Schofield, P.J.; Nico, L.G.

2007-01-01

Our primary goal was to determine whether rotenone would be a useful control against introduced populations of Asian swamp eels (family Synbranchidae, genus Monopterus). We report the results of a laboratory experiment comparing the efficacy of various rotenone concentrations (1, 2, 4, and 8 mg of 5% liquid rotenone/L of water) in killing nonindigenous swamp eels of various sizes (1-350 g) from the three known Florida populations. Although most small swamp eels were killed at concentrations of 2 and 4 mg/L. 100% mortality of adult swamp eels was achieved only at 8 mg/L. We conclude that the effective use of rotenone to control established Florida swamp eel populations would be difficult, based on the relatively high concentration of rotenone needed to kill swamp eels; the complexity of the swamp eel's habitat; and our observations of the species' habitat use and behavior, including its widespread distribution and life history characteristics (e.g., burrowing and overland movement) that enhance its invasion and survival in multiple environments. Nevertheless, control of swamp eels may be achieved in certain situations. A combination of rotenone and electroshocking may be an effective way to eradicate swamp eels from small water bodies and to control populations in larger habitats. However, we are cautious in this recommendation and provide details related to the technical aspects of this type of strategy and caveats related to the toxicity of the chemical.

Spatial trends of organochlorinated pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers in Atlantic Anguillid eels.

PubMed

Byer, Jonathan D; Lebeuf, Michel; Alaee, Mehran; Stephen, Brown R; Trottier, Steve; Backus, Sean; Keir, Michael; Couillard, Catherine M; Casselman, John; Hodson, Peter V

2013-02-01

The bioaccumulation of lipophilic contaminants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) can result in a reduction in fitness and spawner quality in eels and may be a factor in Anguillid sp. population declines. Contaminant concentrations in eels have been studied extensively in Europe, but data for American eels are severely lacking. Concentrations of PCBs, OCPs, and PBDEs were determined in American eel from eastern Canada and New York, USA, along with European eel from Belgium. Principal component analysis revealed that eels captured in the St. Lawrence estuary were a mixture of upstream migrants from the St. Lawrence River watershed, and fish captured in local tributaries. Contaminant concentrations were dependent on origin, related to the local environment, and were lower than historic values. In Canada, concentrations of OCPs and PCBs in eel tissues were below the Canadian human consumption guidelines for contaminants in fish, indicating that the current risk to consumers is low. However, concentrations of PCBs, total DDT, and mirex in eels from L. Ontario and the upper St. Lawrence R. were above Great Lakes guidelines for the protection of piscivorous predators. Concentrations of penta-BDE homologs exceeded the Canadian guideline for environmental quality in over half of the eels in this study, but concentrations of the other homolog groups were below the guideline. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Dietary effects on fatty acid composition in muscle tissue of juvenile European eel, Anguilla anguilla (L.)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prigge, Enno; Malzahn, Arne M.; Zumholz, Karsten; Hanel, Reinhold

2012-03-01

The role of intracontinental migration patterns of European eel ( Anguilla anguilla) receives more and more recognition in both ecological studies of the European eel and possible management measures, but small-scale patterns proved to be challenging to study. We experimentally investigated the suitability of fatty acid trophic markers to elucidate the utilization of feeding habitats. Eight groups of juvenile European eels were fed on eight different diets in a freshwater recirculation system at 20°C for 56 days. Three groups were fed on freshwater diets ( Rutilus rutilus, Chironomidae larvae, and Gammarus pulex) and four groups were reared on diets of a marine origin ( Clupea harengus, Crangon crangon, Mysis spec., and Euphausia superba) and one on commercial pellets used in eel aquaculture. Fatty acid composition (FAC) of diets differed significantly with habitat. FAC of eel muscle tissue seemed to be rather insensitive to fatty acids supplied with diet, but the general pattern of lower n3:n6 and EPA:ARA ratios in freshwater prey organisms could be traced in the respective eels. Multivariate statistics of the fatty acid composition of the eels resulted in two distinct groups representing freshwater and marine treatments. Results further indicate the capability of selectively restraining certain fatty acids in eel, as e.g. the n3:n6 ratio in all treatments was <4, regardless of dietary n3:n6. In future studies on wild eel, these measures can be used to elucidate the utilization of feeding habitats of individual European eel.

Responses of shortfin eel (Anguilla australis) exposed in situ to pulp and paper effluent.

PubMed

van den Heuvel, Michael R; Landman, Michael J; Tremblay, Louis A

2006-10-01

The responses of shortfin eel (Anguilla australis) to discharges from two pulp and paper mills, municipal wastewater, and a geothermal power plant wastewater were examined. Eels were caged at 3 sites along the Tarawera River, North Island, New Zealand, to explore effects of a 3-wk exposure down a contamination gradient (Ref --> D1 --> D2). Most of the observed effects were seen in eels caged at the furthest downstream site (D2), below all the discharge areas. General hematology in eels was unaffected, as measures did not differ markedly at the two downstream sites compared with the reference site. At D2, eels were significantly lighter per unit length (reduced condition factor), although liver and spleen size (LSI and SSI) were unaffected. Significantly elevated circulating sex steroid concentrations (testosterone and estradiol) were measured in D2 eels and increasing sex steroid levels at both sites downstream of the reference site were observed. Significant ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) activity induction was seen in D2 eels and bile chemistry showed significant accumulation of pyrene and retene equivalents. However, significantly greater concentrations of total resin acids were found in the bile of eels from the intermediate site (D1), between the two pulp and paper mills. The higher polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) equivalents found in the bile of D2 eels suggest that resin acid neutrals, particularly retene, are responsible for some of the effects observed in eels at the furthest downstream exposure site. Levels of pulp and paper mill extractives in sediment, including the PAH retene, support this conclusion.

Reproduction of European eel jeopardised by high levels of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs?

PubMed

Geeraerts, C; Focant, J-F; Eppe, G; De Pauw, E; Belpaire, C

2011-09-01

Dioxins, furans and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were analysed in muscle tissue from yellow phased European eel (Anguilla anguilla) from 38 sites in Belgium. Dioxin concentrations in eel vary considerably between sampling locations, indicating that yellow eel is a good indicator of local pollution levels. Measured levels of dioxin-like PCBs are much higher than those of the dioxins and furans. In the majority of the sites, eel has levels considered to be detrimental for their reproduction. Field levels of dioxin and dioxin-like PCBs are therefore suggested as an additional causal factor contributing to the decline of the European eel. 42% of the sampling sites show especially dioxin-like PCB levels exceeding the European consumption level (with a factor 3 on average). Human consumption of eel, especially in these highly contaminated sites, seems unjustified. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Gnathostoma spinigerum in Live Asian Swamp Eels (Monopterus spp.) from Food Markets and Wild Populations, United States

PubMed Central

Choudhury, Anindo; Nico, Leo G.; Griffin, Kathryn M.

2014-01-01

In Southeast Asia, swamp eels (Synbranchidae: Monopterus spp.) are a common source of human gnathostomiasis, a foodborne zoonosis caused by advanced third-stage larvae (AL3) of Gnathostoma spp. nematodes. Live Asian swamp eels are imported to US ethnic food markets, and wild populations exist in several states. To determine whether these eels are infected, we examined 47 eels from markets and 67 wild-caught specimens. Nematodes were identified by morphologic features and ribosomal intergenic transcribed spacer–2 gene sequencing. Thirteen (27.7%) M. cuchia eels from markets were infected with 36 live G. spinigerum AL3: 21 (58.3%) in liver; 7 (19.4%) in muscle; 5 (13.8%) in gastrointestinal tract, and 3 (8.3%) in kidneys. Three (4.5%) wild-caught M. albus eels were infected with 5 G. turgidum AL3 in muscle, and 1 G. lamothei AL3 was found in a kidney (both North American spp.). Imported live eels are a potential source of human gnathostomiasis in the United States. PMID:24661441

Downstream movement of mature eels in a hydroelectric reservoir in New Zealand

USGS Publications Warehouse

Watene, E.M.; Boubee, J.A.T.; Haro, A.

2003-01-01

This study investigates the behavior of migrant eels as they approached the Patea hydroelectric dam on the West Coast of the North Island, New Zealand. Seventeen mature migrant eels (870-1,240 mm; 2,000-6,380 g) were implanted with coded acoustic transmitters and released. Their movements in the reservoir were monitored for 14 months with stationary data logging and manual tracking receivers. The downstream migration of sexually maturing eels was found to occur mainly at night, usually during, or immediately after, rainfall events. Eels tended to travel at the surface, within the upper 4 m of the water column, at speeds ranging from 16 to 89 cm/s. Upon reaching the headrace, eels typically spent time searching, presumably for an unobstructed downstream route. In order to aid downstream passage of eels at the Patea Dam, power station operators began spillway opening trials during peak migration periods. Although this allowed some migrant eels to safely pass over the dam, information on the relative effectiveness and cost of this method over other possible mitigation methods is still required. ?? Copyright by the American Fisheries Society 2003.

Community composition, diversity, and metabolism of intestinal microbiota in cultivated European eel (Anguilla anguilla).

PubMed

Huang, Wei; Cheng, Zhiqiang; Lei, Shaonan; Liu, Lanying; Lv, Xin; Chen, Lihua; Wu, Miaohong; Wang, Chao; Tian, Baoyu; Song, Yongkang

2018-05-01

The intestinal tract, which harbours tremendous numbers of bacteria, plays a pivotal role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients. Here, high-throughput sequencing technology was used to determine the community composition and complexity of the intestinal microbiota in cultivated European eels during three stages of their lifecycle, after which the metabolic potentials of their intestinal microbial communities were assessed. The results demonstrated that European eel intestinal microbiota were dominated by bacteria in the phyla Proteobacteria and Fusobacteria. Statistical analyses revealed that the three cultured European eel life stages (elver, yellow eel, and silver eel) shared core microbiota dominated by Aeromonas. Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States (PICRUSt) predictions of metagenome function revealed that the European eel intestinal microbiota might play significant roles in host nutrient metabolism. Biolog AN MicroPlate™ analysis and extracellular enzyme assays of culturable intestinal bacteria showed that the intestinal microbiota have a marked advantage in the metabolism of starch, which is the main carbohydrate component in European eel formulated feed. Understanding the ecology and functions of the intestinal microbiota during different developmental stages will help us improve the effects of fish-based bacteria on the composition and metabolic capacity of nutrients in European eels.

Leaping eels electrify threats, supporting Humboldt’s account of a battle with horses

PubMed Central

Catania, Kenneth C.

2016-01-01

In March 1800, Alexander von Humboldt observed the extraordinary spectacle of native fisherman collecting electric eels (Electrophorus electricus) by “fishing with horses” [von Humboldt A (1807) Ann Phys 25:34–43]. The strategy was to herd horses into a pool containing electric eels, provoking the eels to attack by pressing themselves against the horses while discharging. Once the eels were exhausted, they could be safely collected. This legendary tale of South American adventures helped propel Humboldt to fame and has been recounted and illustrated in many publications, but subsequent investigators have been skeptical, and no similar eel behavior has been reported in more than 200 years. Here I report a defensive eel behavior that supports Humboldt’s account. The behavior consists of an approach and leap out of the water during which the eel presses its chin against a threatening conductor while discharging high-voltage volleys. The effect is to short-circuit the electric organ through the threat, with increasing power diverted to the threat as the eel attains greater height during the leap. Measurement of voltages and current during the behavior, and assessment of the equivalent circuit, reveal the effectiveness of the behavior and the basis for its natural selection. PMID:27274074

Impact of the North Atlantic Oscillation on the trans-Atlantic migrations of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kettle, A. James; Bakker, Dorothee C. E.; Haines, Keith

2008-09-01

Glass eel catches and FAO (Food and Agricultural Organization) landings of the European freshwater eel (Anguilla anguilla) show a decrease over the past 20 years. The long-term trends in the time series mask an interannual fluctuation, which becomes apparent on the application of a high-pass filter and autocorrelation analysis. Both the FAO landings and the glass eel catches show interannual fluctuations with a repeat period of 6-8 years, similar to the period of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). Most glass eel catch monitoring stations are in phase. The glass eel catches show a significant negative correlation with the NAO lagged by 0-2 years, consistent with the hypothesis that the positive NAO phase has an adverse impact on the larval survival in and migration from the Sargasso Sea spawning location, one year prior to the arrival of the glass eels in Europe and North Africa. The FAO landings can be divided into two groups of different phase that have an approximate correspondence to the NAO dipole in winter rainfall in Europe and North Africa. One group (P) comprises Denmark, Ireland, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Tunisia, and the United Kingdom, and the other group (N) comprises France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Spain, and Turkey. At least for the interannual fluctuations, the success of the glass eel fishery (and eel recruitment) may be coupled with the number of migrating silver eels from the N group of countries and uncoupled with the P group of countries.

Migratory behavior, metabolism, oxidative stress and mercury concentrations in marine and estuarine European glass eels (Anguilla anguilla).

PubMed

Bolliet, Valérie; Claveau, Julie; Jarry, Marc; Gonzalez, Patrice; Baudrimont, Magalie; Monperrus, Mathilde

2017-02-01

The relationships between the migratory behavior, methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations, oxidative stress response and detoxification processes were investigated in glass eels collected in marine (Molliets) and estuarine (Urt) waters (Adour estuary, South West France) at the end of the fishing season (April). Glass eel migratory behavior was investigated in an experimental flume according to their response to dusk. Fish responding to the decrease in light intensity by ascending in the water column and moving with or against the flow were considered as having a high propensity to migrate (migrant). Glass eels still sheltering at the end of the 24h catching period were considered as having a low propensity to migrate and were called non-migrant. Our results provide some evidence that estuarine glass eels were bigger, presented a higher propensity to migrate and a lower oxidative stress response than marine glass eels. This might reflect a selection process, some marine glass eels progressively settling or dying before reaching Urt and/or a change in feeding behavior. In April, glass eels restart feeding in the Adour estuary which might decrease the oxidative stress possibly related to starvation, and enhance migration. MeHg concentrations was significantly higher in non-migrant than in migrant glass eels and it is suggested that non-migrant glass eels might present a higher vulnerability to stress (at least contamination and/or starvation), although the underlying mechanisms remain to be elucidated. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Impacts of Interannual Ocean Circulation Variability on Japanese Eel Larval Migration in the Western North Pacific Ocean.

PubMed

Chang, Yu-Lin; Sheng, Jinyu; Ohashi, Kyoko; Béguer-Pon, Mélanie; Miyazawa, Yasumasa

2015-01-01

The Japanese eel larvae hatch near the West Mariana Ridge seamount chain and travel through the North Equatorial Current (NEC), the Kuroshio, and the Subtropical Countercurrent (STCC) region during their shoreward migration toward East Asia. The interannual variability of circulation over the subtropical and tropical regions of the western North Pacific Ocean is affected by the Philippines-Taiwan Oscillation (PTO). This study examines the effect of the PTO on the Japanese eel larval migration routes using a three-dimensional (3D) particle tracking method, including vertical and horizontal swimming behavior. The 3D circulation and hydrography used for particle tracking are from the ocean circulation reanalysis produced by the Japan Coastal Ocean Predictability Experiment 2 (JCOPE2). Our results demonstrate that bifurcation of the NEC and the strength and spatial variation of the Kuroshio affect the distribution and migration of eel larvae. During the positive phase of PTO, more virtual eels ("v-eels") can enter the Kuroshio to reach the south coast of Japan and more v-eels reach the South China Sea through the Luzon Strait; the stronger and more offshore swing of the Kuroshio in the East China Sea leads to fewer eels entering the East China Sea and the onshore movement of the Kuroshio to the south of Japan brings the eels closer to the Japanese coast. Significant differences in eel migration routes and distributions regulated by ocean circulation in different PTO phases can also affect the otolith increment. The estimated otolith increment suggests that eel age tends to be underestimated after six months of simulation due to the cooler lower layer temperature. Underestimation is more significant in the positive PTO years due to the wide distribution in higher latitudes than in the negative PTO years.

Is feeding behaviour related to glass eel propensity to migrate?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bureau du Colombier, Sarah; Lambert, Patrick; Bardonnet, Agnès

2008-11-01

Several studies have shown that eel diadromy is facultative and that migratory divergences may appear during glass eel estuarine migration. The origin of the differences in migratory behaviour among glass eels remains unclear but initial evidence supports the role of individual energetic and thyroidal status. Even if starvation is usually associated with glass eel migration, feeding does seem to occur in some glass eels. The aim of the present study was to investigate feeding behaviour and glass eel growth in relation to the propensity to migrate. Feeding rate and weight gain were higher in fish having a high propensity to migrate (M + fish) than in fish having a low propensity to migrate (M - fish) in fed glass eels, whereas no clear difference in the variation in body weight was observed among unfed fish (controls). M - fish initially had lower percent dry weight than M + fish, which suggests a link between appetite, propensity to migrate, and energy content. We discuss the role played by endocrine signals on these processes. In fish, thyroid hormones contribute to the control of growth and development. In addition, they play a role in flatfish and leptocephalus metamorphosis and appear to be involved in smolt and glass eel migratory behaviour. As such, they represent a good candidate which would promote the propensity to migrate as well as digestive system development. Their role in the hormonal control of food intake however remains vague. The large and sharp decline in glass eel abundances observed since the 1980s could partly be explained by changes in ocean productivity. If so, it could be accompanied by a decrease in glass eel energy stores. The ability to resume feeding in the course of the estuarine crossing would then represent a serious advantage to maintain energy levels compatible with migration.

Enteric neuroplasticity in seawater-adapted European eel (Anguilla anguilla).

PubMed

Sorteni, C; Clavenzani, P; De Giorgio, R; Portnoy, O; Sirri, R; Mordenti, O; Di Biase, A; Parmeggiani, A; Menconi, V; Chiocchetti, R

2014-02-01

European eels live most of their lives in freshwater until spawning migration to the Sargasso Sea. During seawater adaptation, eels modify their physiology, and their digestive system adapts to the new environment, drinking salt water to compensate for the continuous water loss. In that period, eels stop feeding until spawning. Thus, the eel represents a unique model to understand the adaptive changes of the enteric nervous system (ENS) to modified salinity and starvation. To this purpose, we assessed and compared the enteric neuronal density in the cranial portion of the intestine of freshwater eels (control), lagoon eels captured in brackish water before their migration to the Sargasso Sea (T0), and starved seawater eels hormonally induced to sexual maturity (T18; 18 weeks of starvation and treatment with standardized carp pituitary extract). Furthermore, we analyzed the modification of intestinal neuronal density of hormonally untreated eels during prolonged starvation (10 weeks) in seawater and freshwater. The density of myenteric (MP) and submucosal plexus (SMP) HuC/D-immunoreactive (Hu-IR) neurons was assessed in wholemount preparations and cryosections. The number of MP and SMP HuC/D-IR neurons progressively increased from the freshwater to the salty water habitat (control > T0 > T18; P < 0.05). Compared with freshwater eels, the number of MP and SMP HuC/D-IR neurons significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the intestine of starved untreated salt water eels. In conclusion, high salinity evokes enteric neuroplasticity as indicated by the increasing number of HuC/D-IR MP and SMP neurons, a mechanism likely contributing to maintaining the body homeostasis of this fish in extreme conditions. © 2013 Anatomical Society.

Implications of facultative catadromy in Anguilla anguilla. Does individual migratory behaviour influence eel spawner quality?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marohn, Lasse; Jakob, Eva; Hanel, Reinhold

2013-03-01

European eel (Anguilla anguilla) recruitment is declining dramatically since the 1980s. Causes for this decline are explained by a combination of environmental changes basically affecting oceanic larval stages and a variety of anthropogenic impacts during the continental phase. Today, evidence is growing that poor silver eel quality has a major impact on reproductive success, implying that habitat quality plays a key role in stock decline. Since eels are frequently moving through a variety of different habitats during their life cycle, a better understanding of the implications of individual diadromous behaviour and habitat choice on spawner quality are crucial for management considerations for a stock recovery. The present study tested whether individual migratory behaviour and habitat choice of European eels affect spawner quality. Therefore, the migratory behaviour of 287 European eels from marine, brackish and freshwater stations in the North Sea, the Baltic Sea and from Northern German inland waters was examined by otolith strontium/calcium analysis. All individuals were classified either as freshwater residents, coastal residents, downstream shifters, upstream shifters or interhabitat shifters. As indicators for eel quality, muscle fat content, infection with the introduced swimbladder nematode Anguillicoloides crassus and body length at onset of spawning migration were assessed. Results indicate that individuals that exclusively inhabited freshwaters had significantly lower muscle fat contents and were more seriously infected with A. crassus than eels that never entered freshwaters. Since high fat contents are considered as prerequisites for a successful transoceanic spawning migration and high A. crassus loads have a negative impact on condition, this study outlines the importance of brackish waters as eel habitats in temperate latitudes. Furthermore, it questions the net benefit of stocking programs for the European eel population, since they include the translocation of eels from coastal waters into freshwaters.

Enteric neuroplasticity in seawater-adapted European eel (Anguilla anguilla)

PubMed Central

Sorteni, C; Clavenzani, P; De Giorgio, R; Portnoy, O; Sirri, R; Mordenti, O; Di Biase, A; Parmeggiani, A; Menconi, V; Chiocchetti, R

2014-01-01

European eels live most of their lives in freshwater until spawning migration to the Sargasso Sea. During seawater adaptation, eels modify their physiology, and their digestive system adapts to the new environment, drinking salt water to compensate for the continuous water loss. In that period, eels stop feeding until spawning. Thus, the eel represents a unique model to understand the adaptive changes of the enteric nervous system (ENS) to modified salinity and starvation. To this purpose, we assessed and compared the enteric neuronal density in the cranial portion of the intestine of freshwater eels (control), lagoon eels captured in brackish water before their migration to the Sargasso Sea (T0), and starved seawater eels hormonally induced to sexual maturity (T18; 18 weeks of starvation and treatment with standardized carp pituitary extract). Furthermore, we analyzed the modification of intestinal neuronal density of hormonally untreated eels during prolonged starvation (10 weeks) in seawater and freshwater. The density of myenteric (MP) and submucosal plexus (SMP) HuC/D-immunoreactive (Hu-IR) neurons was assessed in wholemount preparations and cryosections. The number of MP and SMP HuC/D-IR neurons progressively increased from the freshwater to the salty water habitat (control > T0 > T18; P < 0.05). Compared with freshwater eels, the number of MP and SMP HuC/D-IR neurons significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the intestine of starved untreated salt water eels. In conclusion, high salinity evokes enteric neuroplasticity as indicated by the increasing number of HuC/D-IR MP and SMP neurons, a mechanism likely contributing to maintaining the body homeostasis of this fish in extreme conditions. PMID:24433383

Signatures of natural selection between life cycle stages separated by metamorphosis in European eel.

PubMed

Pujolar, J M; Jacobsen, M W; Bekkevold, D; Lobón-Cervià, J; Jónsson, B; Bernatchez, L; Hansen, M M

2015-08-13

Species showing complex life cycles provide excellent opportunities to study the genetic associations between life cycle stages, as selective pressures may differ before and after metamorphosis. The European eel presents a complex life cycle with two metamorphoses, a first metamorphosis from larvae into glass eels (juvenile stage) and a second metamorphosis into silver eels (adult stage). We tested the hypothesis that different genes and gene pathways will be under selection at different life stages when comparing the genetic associations between glass eels and silver eels. We used two sets of markers to test for selection: first, we genotyped individuals using a panel of 80 coding-gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) developed in American eel; second, we investigated selection at the genome level using a total of 153,423 RAD-sequencing generated SNPs widely distributed across the genome. Using the RAD approach, outlier tests identified a total of 2413 (1.57%) potentially selected SNPs. Functional annotation analysis identified signal transduction pathways as the most over-represented group of genes, including MAPK/Erk signalling, calcium signalling and GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) signalling. Many of the over-represented pathways were related to growth, while others could result from the different conditions that eels inhabit during their life cycle. The observation of different genes and gene pathways under selection when comparing glass eels vs. silver eels supports the adaptive decoupling hypothesis for the benefits of metamorphosis. Partitioning the life cycle into discrete morphological phases may be overall beneficial since it allows the different life stages to respond independently to their unique selection pressures. This might translate into a more effective use of food and niche resources and/or performance of phase-specific tasks (e.g. feeding in the case of glass eels, migrating and reproducing in the case of silver eels).

Synergistic and singular effects of river discharge and lunar illumination on dam passage of upstream migrant yellow-phase American eels

USGS Publications Warehouse

Welsh, Stuart A.; Aldinger, Joni L.; Braham, Melissa A.; Zimmerman, Jennifer L.

2016-01-01

Monitoring of dam passage can be useful for management and conservation assessments of American eel, particularly if passage counts can be examined over multiple years. During a 7-year study (2007–2013) of upstream migration of American eels within the lower Shenandoah River (Potomac River drainage), we counted and measured American eels at the Millville Dam eel pass, where annual study periods were determined by the timing of the eel pass installation during spring or summer and removal during fall. Daily American eel counts were analysed with negative binomial regression models, with and without a year (YR) effect, and with the following time-varying environmental covariates: river discharge of the Shenandoah River at Millville (RDM) and of the Potomac River at Point of Rocks, lunar illumination (LI), water temperature, and cloud cover. A total of 17 161 yellow-phase American eels used the pass during the seven annual periods, and length measurements were obtained from 9213 individuals (mean = 294 mm TL, s.e. = 0.49, range 183–594 mm). Data on passage counts of American eels supported an additive-effects model (YR + LI + RDM) where parameter estimates were positive for river discharge (β = 7.3, s.e. = 0.01) and negative for LI (β = −1.9, s.e. = 0.34). Interestingly, RDM and LI acted synergistically and singularly as correlates of upstream migration of American eels, but the highest daily counts and multiple-day passage events were associated with increased RDM. Annual installation of the eel pass during late spring or summer prevented an early spring assessment, a period with higher RDM relative to those values obtained during sampling periods. Because increases in river discharge are climatically controlled events, upstream migration events of American eels within the Potomac River drainage are likely linked to the influence of climate variability on flow regime.

Proximate content of wild and cultured eel (Anguilla bicolor) in different part of body

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wijayanti, I.; Susilo, E. S.

2018-02-01

Proximate content in fish varies depends on intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors include species, sexual maturity, size and body parts. Extrinsic factors include habitat, season and type of food (diet). This study aimed to know the effect of fish body parts (intrinsic factor) on proximate levels in wild and cultured eel (extrinsic). The experimental design used factorial completely randomized design with two factors 2x3. The first factor is the habitat of eel (wild and cultured) and the second factor is the part of the body (head, body and tail) with five replications. The result of statistical analysis showed that there was interaction between fish habitat and body part on moisture, protein, ash and carbohydrate content (P <0.05), but no interaction on fat content and energy (P> 0.05). The highest water content (67.02%) was found in head of wild and the lowest one (59.44%) in the tail of wild eel; The highest protein content (18.09%) was found in the body of cultured eel and the lowest one (15.72%) was in the body of wild eel; The highest ash content (3.73%) was the head of wild eel and the lowest (1.32%) was in the body of cultured eel; The highest carbohydrate (3.73%) was found in the head of cultured eel and the lowest one (0.16%) was in the body of cultured. The wild eel had higher fat content and energy than cultured one, while the fat content and energy in body and tail were higher than in head.

Empirical observations of the spawning migration of European eels: The long and dangerous road to the Sargasso Sea.

PubMed

Righton, David; Westerberg, Håkan; Feunteun, Eric; Økland, Finn; Gargan, Patrick; Amilhat, Elsa; Metcalfe, Julian; Lobon-Cervia, Javier; Sjöberg, Niklas; Simon, Janek; Acou, Anthony; Vedor, Marisa; Walker, Alan; Trancart, Thomas; Brämick, Uwe; Aarestrup, Kim

2016-10-01

The spawning migration of the European eel ( Anguilla anguilla L.) to the Sargasso Sea is one of the greatest animal migrations. However, the duration and route of the migration remain uncertain. Using fishery data from 20 rivers across Europe, we show that most eels begin their oceanic migration between August and December. We used electronic tagging techniques to map the oceanic migration from eels released from four regions in Europe. Of 707 eels tagged, we received 206 data sets. Many migrations ended soon after release because of predation events, but we were able to reconstruct in detail the migration routes of >80 eels. The route extended from western mainland Europe to the Azores region, more than 5000 km toward the Sargasso Sea. All eels exhibited diel vertical migrations, moving from deeper water during the day into shallower water at night. The range of migration speeds was 3 to 47 km day -1 . Using data from larval surveys in the Sargasso Sea, we show that spawning likely begins in December and peaks in February. Synthesizing these results, we show that the timing of autumn escapement and the rate of migration are inconsistent with the century-long held assumption that eels spawn as a single reproductive cohort in the springtime following their escapement. Instead, we suggest that European eels adopt a mixed migratory strategy, with some individuals able to achieve a rapid migration, whereas others arrive only in time for the following spawning season. Our results have consequences for eel management.

Glass eels (Anguilla anguilla) have a magnetic compass linked to the tidal cycle

PubMed Central

Cresci, Alessandro; Paris, Claire B.; Durif, Caroline M. F.; Shema, Steven; Bjelland, Reidun M.; Skiftesvik, Anne Berit; Browman, Howard I.

2017-01-01

The European eel (Anguilla anguilla) has one of the longest migrations in the animal kingdom. It crosses the Atlantic Ocean twice during its life history, migrating between the spawning area in the Sargasso Sea and Europe, where it is widely distributed. The leptocephalus larvae drift with the Gulf Stream and other currents for more than a year and metamorphose into glass eels when they arrive on the continental shelf and move toward coastal areas. The mechanisms underlying glass eel orientation toward the coast and into freshwater systems are poorly known. However, anguillid eels, including the glass eel life stage, have a geomagnetic sense, suggesting the possibility that they use Earth’s magnetic field to orient toward the coast. To test this hypothesis, we used a unique combination of laboratory tests and in situ behavioral observations conducted in a drifting circular arena. Most (98%) of the glass eels tested in the sea exhibited a preferred orientation that was related to the tidal cycle. Seventy-one percent of the same eels showed the same orientation during ebb tide when tested in the laboratory under a manipulated simulated magnetic field in the absence of any other cue. These results demonstrate that glass eels use a magnetic compass for orientation and suggest that this magnetic orientation system is linked to a circatidal rhythm. PMID:28630895

Are dioxin-like contaminants responsible for the eel ( Anguilla anguilla) drama?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palstra, A. P.; van Ginneken, V. J. T.; Murk, A. J.; van den Thillart, G. E. E. J. M.

2006-03-01

Eel populations worldwide are dangerously close to collapsing. Our study is the first to show that current levels of dioxin-like contaminants are strong candidates because of their devastating effects on development and survival of eel embryos. Female and male silver eels were artificially stimulated to maturation and reproduction by treatment with carp pituitary extracts and hCG, respectively. During maturation of female European silver eels, about 60 g fat per kg eel is incorporated in the oocytes. Together with the fat, however, persistent organic pollutants such as dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are incorporated too. The total dioxin-like toxic potency of the individual gonad batches was determined as 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p-dioxine equivalents (TEQs), using an in vitro reporter gene assay. The observed differences in development and survival showed a significant negative correlation with the TEQ levels in the gonads, already at levels far below the maximal allowable level for fish consumption, i.e., 4 ng TEQ/kg fish. The clear inverse relationship between the TEQ level and the survival period of the fertilised eggs strongly suggests that the current levels of dioxin-like compounds seriously impair the reproduction of the European eel. The peak of the environmental levels of dioxin-like PCBs and the decline of eel coincide worldwide, further suggesting that, in addition to other threats, these contaminants contributed significantly to the current collapse in eel populations.

Changes in the role of the thyroid axis during metamorphosis of the Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica.

PubMed

Sudo, Ryusuke; Okamura, Akihiro; Kuroki, Mari; Tsukamoto, Katsumi

2014-08-01

To clarify the role of thyroid function during metamorphosis from leptocephalus to glass eel in the Japanese eel, we examined the histology of the thyroid gland and measured whole-body concentrations of thyroid hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroid stimulating hormone β-subunit TSH (TSHβ) mRNA expression levels in five stages of artificially hatched eels (leptocephalus, early-metamorphosis, late-metamorphosis, glass eel, and elver). During metamorphosis, the inner colloid of thyroid follicles showed positive immunoreactivity for T4, and both T4 and T3 levels were significantly increased, whereas a small peak of TSHβ mRNA level was observed at the early-metamorphosis stage. Similarly, TSHβ mRNA levels were highest in the glass eel stage, and then decreased markedly in the elver stage. In contrast to TSHβ mRNA expression, thyroid hormones (both T4 and T3) increased further from the glass eel to elver stages. These results indicated that thyroid function in the Japanese eel was active both during and after metamorphosis. Therefore, the thyrotropic axis may play important roles not only in metamorphosis but also in subsequent inshore or upstream migrations. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Electrical Potential of Leaping Eels

PubMed Central

Catania, Kenneth C.

2017-01-01

When approached by a large, partially submerged conductor, electric eels (Electrophorus electricus) will often defend themselves by leaping from the water to directly shock the threat. Presumably, the conductor is interpreted as an approaching terrestrial or semiaquatic animal. In the course of this defensive behavior, eels first make direct contact with their lower jaw and then rapidly emerge from the water, ascending the conductor while discharging high-voltage volleys. In this study, the equivalent circuit that develops during this behavior was proposed and investigated. First, the electromotive force and internal resistance of four electric eels were determined. These values were then used to estimate the resistance of the water volume between the eel and the conductor by making direct measurements of current with the eel and water in the circuit. The resistance of the return path from the eel's lower jaw to the main body of water was then determined, based on voltage recordings, for each electric eel at the height of the defensive leap. Finally, the addition of a hypothetical target for the leaping defense was considered as part of the circuit. The results suggest the defensive behavior efficiently directs electrical current through the threat, producing an aversive and deterring experience by activating afferents in potential predators. PMID:28651251

A combination mode of climate variability responsible for extremely poor recruitment of the Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Yong-Fu; Wu, Chau-Ron; Han, Yu-San

2017-03-01

Satellite data and assimilation products are used to investigate fluctuations in the catch of Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) in eastern Asian countries. It has been reported that the salinity front has extended farther south, which has shifted the eel’s spawning grounds to a lower latitude, resulting in smaller eel catches in 1983, 1992, and 1998. This study demonstrates that interannual variability in the eel catch is strongly correlated with the combination mode (C-mode), but not with the El Niño-Southern Oscillation. These eels continue to spawn within the North Equatorial Current (NEC), but the salinity front shifts south during a canonical El Niño. On the other hand, the spawning grounds accompanied by the salinity front extend farther south during the C-mode of climate variability, and eel larvae fail to join the nursery in the NEC, resulting in extremely poor recruitment in East Asia. We propose an appropriate sea surface temperature index to project Japanese eel larval catch.

Individual movements and population density estimates for moray eels on a Caribbean coral reef

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abrams, R. W.; Schein, M. W.

1986-12-01

Observations of moray eel (Muraenidae) distribution made on a Caribbean coral reef are discussed in the context of long term population trends. Observations of eel distribution made using SCUBA during 1978, 1979 1980, and 1984 are compared and related to the occurrence of a hurricane in 1979. An estimate of the mean standing stock of moray eels is presented. The degree of site attachment is discussed for spotted morays ( Gymnothorax moringa) and goldentail morays ( Muraena miliaris). The repeated non-aggressive association of moray eels with large aggregations of potential prey fishes is detailed.

Gnathostoma infection in Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri, Central Thailand.

PubMed

Rojekittikhun, Wichit; Chaiyasith, Tossapon; Nuamtanong, Supaporn; Pubampen, Somchit; Maipanich, Wanna; Tungtrongchitr, Rungsunn

2002-09-01

Gnathostoma infection in Nakhon Nayok and Prachin Buri Provinces, Central Thailand, was investigated. The prevalence and intensity of infection of swamp eels were determined; dog fecal samples and fresh-water copepods were examined for evidence of infection. The overall prevalence of eel infection was 38.1% (117/307) in Nakhon Nayok and 24.0% (74/308) in Prachin Buri--the former rate being significantly higher than the latter. Most of the positive Nalkhon Nayok eels (53.8%) harbored only 1-9 larvae; only one eel bore more than 50 larvae. In Prachin Buri, 67.6% of the positive eels harbored 1-9 larvae; again, only one eel bore more than 50 larvae. The mean number of 11.0 +/- 10.4 larvae/eel in Nakhon Nayok was not significantly different from that of Prachin Buri (9.3 +/- 11.4). A total of 1,292 gnathostome larvae were recovered from 307 eels in Nakhon Nayok. Of these, 52.3% had accumulated in the liver and 47.7% had spread throughout the muscles. In eels from Prachin Buri, 50.6% and 49.4% of the total of 688 larvae (from 308 eels) were found in the liver and muscles, respectively. The larvae preferred encysting in ventral of muscles rather than dorsal part; they preferred the middle portion to the anterior and posterior portions. The average length of gnathostome larvae recovered from Nakhon Nayok eels was 4.0 +/- 0.5 mm (range 2.5-5.1 mm) and the average body width was 0.40 +/- 0.05 mm (range 0.29-0.51 mm). Those from eels in Prachin Buri were 3.9 +/- 0.5 mm (range 2.2-5.1 mm) and 0.34 +/- 0.05 mm (range 0.20-0.48 mm), respectively. The mean body length and width of the larvae from eels in Nakhon Nayok were significantly greater than those of the larvae from eels in Prachin Buri. In Ban Phrao, Nakhon Nayok, none of the first 44 fecal specimens examined was positive. Of the second (68) and the third (70) specimens, one (1.5%) and two (2.9%) samples were positive. However, six months after the third fecal collection, no eggs were found. In Tha Ngam, Prachin Buri, no eggs were found in all three batches (109, 115, and 100 fecal samples). A cyclops survey of 4,000-5,000 crustacea from each of two areas (Ban Phrao and Tha Ngam) found no evidence of natural cyclops infection.

Salinity-dependent in vitro effects of homologous natriuretic peptides on the pituitary-interrenal axis in eels.

PubMed

Ventura, Albert; Kusakabe, Makoto; Takei, Yoshio

2011-08-01

We examined the effects of atrial, B-type, ventricular and C-type natriuretic peptides (ANP, BNP, VNP and CNP1, 3, 4) on cortisol secretion from interrenal tissue in vitro in both freshwater (FW) and seawater (SW)-acclimated eels. We first localized the interrenal and chromaffin cells in the eel head kidney using cell specific markers (cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450ssc) and tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), respectively) and established the in vitro incubation system for eel interrenal tissue. Unexpectedly, none of the NPs given alone to the interrenal tissue of FW and SW eels stimulated cortisol secretion. However, ANP and VNP, but not BNP and three CNPs, enhanced the steroidogenic action of ACTH in SW interrenal preparations, while CNP1 and CNP4, but not ANP, BNP, VNP and CNP3, potentiated the ACTH action in FW preparations. These salinity dependent effects of NPs are consistent with the previous in vivo study in the eel where endogenous ACTH can act with the injected NPs. 8-Br-cGMP also enhanced the ACTH action in both FW and SW eel preparations, suggesting that the NP actions were mediated by the guanylyl cyclase-coupled NP receptors (GC-A and B) that were localized in the eel interrenal. Further, ANP and CNP1 stimulated ACTH secretion from isolated pituitary glands of SW and/or FW eels. In summary, the present study revealed complex mechanisms of NP action on corticosteroidogenesis through the pituitary-interrenal axis in eels, thereby providing a deeper insight into the role of the NP family in the acclimation of this euryhaline teleost to diverse salinity environments. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Magnetic compass orientation in the European eel.

PubMed

Durif, Caroline M F; Browman, Howard I; Phillips, John B; Skiftesvik, Anne Berit; Vøllestad, L Asbjørn; Stockhausen, Hans H

2013-01-01

European eel migrate from freshwater or coastal habitats throughout Europe to their spawning grounds in the Sargasso Sea. However, their route (~ 6000 km) and orientation mechanisms are unknown. Several attempts have been made to prove the existence of magnetoreception in Anguilla sp., but none of these studies have demonstrated magnetic compass orientation in earth-strength magnetic field intensities. We tested eels in four altered magnetic field conditions where magnetic North was set at geographic North, South, East, or West. Eels oriented in a manner that was related to the tank in which they were housed before the test. At lower temperature (under 12°C), their orientation relative to magnetic North corresponded to the direction of their displacement from the holding tank. At higher temperatures (12-17°C), eels showed bimodal orientation along an axis perpendicular to the axis of their displacement. These temperature-related shifts in orientation may be linked to the changes in behavior that occur between the warm season (during which eels are foraging) and the colder fall and winter (during which eels undertake their migrations). These observations support the conclusion that 1. eels have a magnetic compass, and 2. they use this sense to orient in a direction that they have registered moments before they are displaced. The adaptive advantage of having a magnetic compass and learning the direction in which they have been displaced becomes clear when set in the context of the eel's seaward migration. For example, if their migration is halted or blocked, as it is the case when environmental conditions become unfavorable or when they encounter a barrier, eels would be able to resume their movements along their old bearing when conditions become favorable again or when they pass by the barrier.

Simulating the Oceanic Migration of Silver Japanese Eels

PubMed Central

Chang, Yu-Lin; Miyazawa, Yasumasa; Béguer-Pon, Mélanie

2016-01-01

The oceanic migration of silver Japanese eels starts from their continental growth habitats in East Asia and ends at the spawning area near the West Mariana Ridge seamount chain. However, the actual migration routes remain unknown. In this study, we examined the possible oceanic migration routes and strategies of silver Japanese eels using a particle tracking method in which virtual eels (v-eels) were programmed to move vertically and horizontally in an ocean circulation model (Japan Coastal Ocean Predictability Experiment 2, JCOPE2). Four horizontal swimming strategies were tested: random heading, true navigation (readjusted heading), orientation toward the spawning area (fixed heading), and swimming against the Kuroshio. We found that all strategies, except random swimming, allowed v-eels swimming at 0.65 m s−1 to reach the spawning area within eight months after their departure from the south coast of Japan (end of the spawning season). The estimated minimum swimming speed required to reach the area spawning within eight months was 0.1 m s−1 for true navigation, 0.12 m s−1 for constant compass heading, and 0.35 m s−1 for swimming against the Kuroshio. The lowest swimming speed estimated from tracked Japanese eels at sea was 0.03 m.s−1, which would not allow them to reach the spawning area within eight months, through any of the tested orientation strategies. Our numerical experiments also showed that ocean circulation significantly affected the migration of Japanese v-eels. A strong Kuroshio could advect v-eels further eastward. In addition, western Pacific ocean currents accelerated the migration of navigating v-eels. The migration duration was shortened in years with a stronger southward flow, contributed by a stronger recirculation south of Japan, an enhanced subtropical gyre, or a higher southward Kuroshio velocity. PMID:26982484

Simulating the Oceanic Migration of Silver Japanese Eels.

PubMed

Chang, Yu-Lin; Miyazawa, Yasumasa; Béguer-Pon, Mélanie

2016-01-01

The oceanic migration of silver Japanese eels starts from their continental growth habitats in East Asia and ends at the spawning area near the West Mariana Ridge seamount chain. However, the actual migration routes remain unknown. In this study, we examined the possible oceanic migration routes and strategies of silver Japanese eels using a particle tracking method in which virtual eels (v-eels) were programmed to move vertically and horizontally in an ocean circulation model (Japan Coastal Ocean Predictability Experiment 2, JCOPE2). Four horizontal swimming strategies were tested: random heading, true navigation (readjusted heading), orientation toward the spawning area (fixed heading), and swimming against the Kuroshio. We found that all strategies, except random swimming, allowed v-eels swimming at 0.65 m s-1 to reach the spawning area within eight months after their departure from the south coast of Japan (end of the spawning season). The estimated minimum swimming speed required to reach the area spawning within eight months was 0.1 m s-1 for true navigation, 0.12 m s-1 for constant compass heading, and 0.35 m s-1 for swimming against the Kuroshio. The lowest swimming speed estimated from tracked Japanese eels at sea was 0.03 m.s-1, which would not allow them to reach the spawning area within eight months, through any of the tested orientation strategies. Our numerical experiments also showed that ocean circulation significantly affected the migration of Japanese v-eels. A strong Kuroshio could advect v-eels further eastward. In addition, western Pacific ocean currents accelerated the migration of navigating v-eels. The migration duration was shortened in years with a stronger southward flow, contributed by a stronger recirculation south of Japan, an enhanced subtropical gyre, or a higher southward Kuroshio velocity.

Gonadal transcriptome analysis of wild contaminated female European eels during artificial gonad maturation.

PubMed

Baillon, Lucie; Oses, Jennifer; Pierron, Fabien; Bureau du Colombier, Sarah; Caron, Antoine; Normandeau, Eric; Lambert, Patrick; Couture, Patrice; Labadie, Pierre; Budzinski, Hélène; Dufour, Sylvie; Bernatchez, Louis; Baudrimont, Magalie

2015-11-01

Since the early 1980s, the population of European eels (Anguilla anguilla) has dramatically declined. Nowadays, the European eel is listed on the red list of threatened species (IUCN Red List) and is considered as critically endangered of extinction. Pollution is one of the putative causes for the collapse of this species. Among their possible effects, contaminants gradually accumulated in eels during their somatic growth phase (yellow eel stage) would be remobilized during their reproductive migration leading to potential toxic events in gonads. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of organic and inorganic contaminants on the gonad development of wild female silver eels. Female silver eels from two sites with differing contamination levels were artificially matured. Transcriptomic analyses by means of a 1000 candidate gene cDNA microarray were performed on gonads after 11weeks of maturation to get insight into the mechanisms of toxicity of contaminants. The transcription levels of several genes, that were associated to the gonadosomatic index (GSI), were involved in mitotic cell division but also in gametogenesis. Genes associated to contaminants were mainly involved in the mechanisms of protection against oxidative stress, in DNA repair, in the purinergic signaling pathway and in steroidogenesis, suggesting an impairment of gonad development in eels from the polluted site. This was in agreement with the fact that eels from the reference site showed a higher gonad growth in comparison to contaminated fish. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Diurnal feeding behavior of the American Eel Anguilla rostrata

USGS Publications Warehouse

Engman, Augustin C.; Fischer, Jesse R.; Kwak, Thomas J.; Walter, Michael J.

2017-01-01

Despite potential to structure ecosystem food webs through top-down effects, the trophic interactions of the American Eel Anguilla rostrata remain largely understudied. All previous research on the trophic ecology of American Eel in inland aquatic ecosystems has been conducted in temperate continental regions of the species' range. These studies have led to a paradigm that American Eel is a nocturnally active benthic predator, which most commonly consumes benthic invertebrates. Tropical island streams and rivers have habitats and communities that are distinct from temperate counterparts, but comprise a large portion of the adult habitat in the American Eel's range. We documented a previously undescribed diurnal feeding behavior by American Eel in a Caribbean river and demonstrate that this behavior, and a shift toward more frequent daytime feeding, is linked to periodic mass migrations of postlarvae of amphidromous fish taxa, including the Sicydiine goby Sicydiumspp. Our findings indicate that periodic mass migrations of amphidromous postlarvae could function as a potentially important food source for American Eel in tropical regions of its distribution, despite the intermittence of availability. Furthermore, this suggests that the American Eel plays an important role in the structure of tropical lotic food webs through top-down effects that are potentially augmented by instream barriers.

Electrical Potential of Leaping Eels.

PubMed

Catania, Kenneth C

2017-01-01

When approached by a large, partially submerged conductor, electric eels (Electrophorus electricus) will often defend themselves by leaping from the water to directly shock the threat. Presumably, the conductor is interpreted as an approaching terrestrial or semiaquatic animal. In the course of this defensive behavior, eels first make direct contact with their lower jaw and then rapidly emerge from the water, ascending the conductor while discharging high-voltage volleys. In this study, the equivalent circuit that develops during this behavior was proposed and investigated. First, the electromotive force and internal resistance of four electric eels were determined. These values were then used to estimate the resistance of the water volume between the eel and the conductor by making direct measurements of current with the eel and water in the circuit. The resistance of the return path from the eel's lower jaw to the main body of water was then determined, based on voltage recordings, for each electric eel at the height of the defensive leap. Finally, the addition of a hypothetical target for the leaping defense was considered as part of the circuit. The results suggest the defensive behavior efficiently directs electrical current through the threat, producing an aversive and deterring experience by activating afferents in potential predators. © 2017 The Author(s) Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Characterization of Lithium Ion Battery Materials with Valence Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy.

PubMed

Castro, Fernando C; Dravid, Vinayak P

2018-06-01

Cutting-edge research on materials for lithium ion batteries regularly focuses on nanoscale and atomic-scale phenomena. Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) is one of the most powerful ways of characterizing composition and aspects of the electronic structure of battery materials, particularly lithium and the transition metal mixed oxides found in the electrodes. However, the characteristic EELS signal from battery materials is challenging to analyze when there is strong overlap of spectral features, poor signal-to-background ratios, or thicker and uneven sample areas. A potential alternative or complementary approach comes from utilizing the valence EELS features (<20 eV loss) of battery materials. For example, the valence EELS features in LiCoO2 maintain higher jump ratios than the Li-K edge, most notably when spectra are collected with minimal acquisition times or from thick sample regions. EELS maps of these valence features give comparable results to the Li-K edge EELS maps of LiCoO2. With some spectral processing, the valence EELS maps more accurately highlight the morphology and distribution of LiCoO2 than the Li-K edge maps, especially in thicker sample regions. This approach is beneficial for cases where sample thickness or beam sensitivity limit EELS analysis, and could be used to minimize electron dosage and sample damage or contamination.

Dimorphism throughout the European eel's life cycle: are ontogenetic changes in head shape related to dietary differences?

PubMed

De Meyer, J; Goethals, T; Van Wassenbergh, S; Augustijns, T; Habraken, J; Hellemans, J; Vandewiele, V; Dhaene, J; Bouillart, M; Adriaens, D

2018-05-31

A well-known link exists between an organism's ecology and morphology. In the European eel, a dimorphic head has been linked to differences in feeding ecology, with broad-headed eels consuming harder prey items than narrow-headed ones. Consequently, we hypothesized that broad-heads should exhibit a cranial musculoskeletal system that increases bite force and facilitates the consumption of harder prey. Using 3D-reconstructions and a bite model, we tested this hypothesis in two life stages: the sub-adult yellow eel stage and its predecessor, the elver eel stage. This allowed us to test whether broad- and narrow-headed phenotypes show similar trait differences in both life stages and whether the dimorphism becomes more pronounced during ontogeny. We show that broad-headed eels in both stages have larger jaw muscles and a taller coronoid, which are associated with higher bite forces. This increased bite force together with the elongated upper and lower jaws in broad-headed eels can also improve grip during spinning behavior, which is used to manipulate hard prey. Head shape variation in European eel is therefore associated with musculoskeletal variation that can be linked to feeding ecology. However, although differences in muscle volume become more pronounced during ontogeny, this was not the case for skeletal features. © 2018 Anatomical Society.

High Performance Perovskite Hybrid Solar Cells with E-beam-Processed TiOx Electron Extraction Layer.

PubMed

Meng, Tianyu; Liu, Chang; Wang, Kai; He, Tianda; Zhu, Yu; Al-Enizi, Abdullah; Elzatahry, Ahmed; Gong, Xiong

2016-01-27

Perovskite hybrid solar cells (pero-HSCs) have drawn great attention in the last 5 years. The efficiencies of pero-HSCs have been boosted from 3.8% to over 20%. However, one of the bottlenecks for commercialization of pero-HSCs is to make a high electrical conductive TiOx electron extraction layer (EEL). In this study, we report high performance pero-HSCs with TiOx EEL, where the TiOx EEL is fabricated by electron beam (e-beam) evaporation, which has been proved to be a well-developed manufacturing process. The resistance of the e-beam evaporated TiOx EEL is smaller than that of sol-gel processed TiOx EEL. Moreover, the dark current densities and interfacial charge carrier recombination of pero-HSCs incorporated with e-beam processed TiOx EEL is also smaller than that of pero-HSCs incorporated with sol-gel processed TiOx EEL. All these result in efficient pero-HSCs with high reproducibility. These results demonstrate that our method provides a simple and facile way to approach high performance pero-HSCs.

Low PCB concentrations observed in American eel (Anguilla rostrata) in six Hudson River tributaries

USGS Publications Warehouse

Limburg, K.E.; Machut, L.S.; Jeffers, P.; Schmidt, R.E.

2008-01-01

We analyzed 73 eels, collected in 2004 and 2005 above the head of tide in six Hudson River tributaries, for total PCBs, length, weight, age, and nitrogen stable isotope ratios (??15N). Mean total PCB concentration (wet weight basis) was 0.23 ppm ?? 0.08 (standard error), with a range of 0.008 to 5.4 ppm. A majority of eels (84) had concentrations below 0.25 ppm, and only seven eels (10%) had concentrations exceeding 0.5 ppm. Those eels with higher PCB concentrations were ???12 yr; there was a weak correlation of PCB concentration with ??15N and also with weight. Compared to recent (2003) data from the mainstem of the Hudson River estuary, these results indicate that tributaries are generally much less contaminated with PCBs. We hypothesize that those tributary eels with high PCB concentrations were relatively recent immigrants from the mainstem. Given concern over the possible adverse effects of PCBs on eel reproduction, these tributaries may serve as refugia. Therefore, providing improved access to upland tributaries may be critically important to this species. ?? 2008 Northeastern Naturalist.

Distribution of Glass Eel by the Water Surface Salinity Using Landsat TM at Pelabuhan Ratu Bay, West Java

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Irianto, D. S.; Supriatna; Pin, TjiongGiok

2016-11-01

Eel (Anguilla spp.) is consumed fish that has an important economic value, either for local or international market. Pelabuhanratu Bay is an area with big potential for supplying eel seed. One of important factor, which affect an eel existence, is salinity, because eel migrate from fresh water, brackish, and sea naturally although the otherwise so that need ways to describe the distribution of glass eel by the salinity. To find out the percentage of salinity, it obtained from Landsat 8 Imagery in year 2015 using salinity prediction of Algorithm Cimandiri. The research has been conducted at Cimandiri Estuary, Citepus Estuary, and Cimaja Estuary based on wet and dry months. The existence of glass eel which is obtained from the catch was occurs on dry month when the most catch was occurs at the edge of estuary. The catch is reduced if it's farther from the edge of estuary, at the beach towards the sea and the inside of the river mouth with the percentage of salinity towards the sea is increase while the percentage of salinity towards the river is decrease.

A question of origin: dioxin-like PCBs and their relevance in stock management of European eels.

PubMed

Freese, Marko; Sühring, Roxana; Pohlmann, Jan-Dag; Wolschke, Hendrik; Magath, Victoria; Ebinghaus, Ralf; Hanel, Reinhold

2016-01-01

The stock of European Eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) has reached an all-time low in 2011. Spawner quality of mature eels in terms of health status and fitness is considered one of the key elements for successful migration and reproduction. Dioxin-like Polychlorinated Biphenyls (dl-PCBs) are known persistent organic pollutants potentially affecting the reproductive capability and health status of eels throughout their entire lifetime. In this study, muscle tissue samples of 192 European eels of all continental life stages from 6 different water bodies and 13 sampling sites were analyzed for contamination with lipophilic dl-PCBs to investigate the potential relevance of the respective habitat in light of eel stock management. Results of this study reveal habitat-dependent and life history stage-related accumulation of targeted PCBs. Sum concentrations of targeted PCBs differed significantly between life stages and inter-habitat variability in dl-PCB levels and -profiles was observed. Among all investigated life stages, migrant silver eels were found to be the most suitable life history stage to represent their particular water system due to habitat dwell-time and their terminal contamination status. With reference to a possible negative impact of dl-PCBs on health and the reproductive capability of eels, it was hypothesized that those growing up in less polluted habitats have a better chance to produce healthy offspring than those growing up in highly polluted habitats. We suggest that the contamination status of water systems is fundamental for the life cycle of eels and needs to be considered in stock management and restocking programs.

50 CFR Table 2d to Part 679 - Species Codes-Non-FMP Species

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... description Code Arctic char, anadromous 521 Dolly varden, anadromous 531 Eels or eel-like fish 210 Eel, wolf... Arctic surf 812 Cockle 820 Eastern softshell 842 Pacific geoduck 815 Pacific littleneck 840 Pacific razor...

Evidence for High Concentrations and Maternal Transfer of Substituted Diphenylamines in European Eels Analyzed by Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography-Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry and Gas Chromatography-Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Sühring, Roxana; Ortiz, Xavier; Pena-Abaurrea, Miren; Jobst, Karl J; Freese, Marko; Pohlmann, Jan-Dag; Marohn, Lasse; Ebinghaus, Ralf; Backus, Sean; Hanel, Reinhold; Reiner, Eric J

2016-12-06

Chemical pollution is hypothesized to be one of the factors driving the strong decline of the critically endangered European eel population. Specifically, the impact of contaminants on the quality of spawning eels and subsequent embryo survival and development has been discussed as crucial investigation point. However, so far, only very limited information on potential negative effects of contaminants on the reproduction of eels is available. Through the combination of nontargeted ultrahigh-resolution mass spectrometry and multidimensional gas chromatography, combined with more-conventional targeted analytical approaches and multimedia mass-balance modeling, compounds of particular relevance, and their maternal transfer in artificially matured European eels from the German river Ems have been identified. Substituted diphenylamines were, unexpectedly, found to be the primary organic contaminants in the eel samples, with concentrations in the μg g -1 wet weight range. Furthermore, it could be shown that these contaminants, as well as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides, and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), are not merely stored in lipid rich tissue of eels but maternally transferred into gonads and eggs. The results of this study provide unique information on both the fate and behavior of substituted diphenylamines in the environment as well as their relevance as contaminants in European eels.

Ubiquitous distribution of fluorescent protein in muscles of four species and two subspecies of eel (genus Anguilla).

PubMed

Funahashi, Aki; Itakura, Takao; Hassanin Abeer, A I; Komatsu, Masaharu; Hayashi, Seiichi; Kaminishi, Yoshio

2017-03-01

In this study, the localization of fluorescent protein (FP) was characterized in the muscles of four species and two subspecies of eels Anguilla anguilla, A. australis, A. bicolor bicolor (b.), A. bicolor pacifica (p.) and A. mossambica in addition to the previously reported A. japonica. The open reading frame of each eel FP was 417 bp encoding 139 amino acid residues. The deduced amino acid sequences among the four species and two subspecies exhibited 91.4-100% identity, and belonged to the fatty-acid-binding protein (FABP) family. The gene structure of eel FPs in A. japonica, A. anguilla, A. australis, A. bicolor b., A. bicolor p. and A. mossambica have four exons and three introns, and were common to that of FABP family. The apo eel FPs expressed by Escherichia coli with recombinant eel FP genes were analysed for the fluorescent properties in the presence of bilirubin. The excitation and emission spectra of holo eel FPs had the maximum wavelengths of 490-496 and 527-530 nm, respectively. The holo eel FPs indicated that the fluorescent intensities were stronger in A. japonica and A. bicolor than in A. mossambica, A. australis and A. anguilla. The comparison of amino acid sequences revealed two common substitutions in A. mossambica, A. australis and A. anguilla with weak fluorescent intensity.

Assessment of persistent brominated and chlorinated organic contaminants in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) in Flanders, Belgium: Levels, profiles and health risk.

PubMed

Malarvannan, Govindan; Belpaire, Claude; Geeraerts, Caroline; Eulaers, Igor; Neels, Hugo; Covaci, Adrian

2014-06-01

Pooled yellow European eel (Anguilla anguilla (L.)) samples, consisting of 3-10 eels, collected between 2000 and 2009 from 60 locations in Flanders (Belgium) were investigated for persistent contaminants, such as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane and its metabolites (DDTs). The current study expands the knowledge regarding these contaminant concentrations, their patterns and distribution profiles in aquatic ecosystems. PBDEs, HBCDs, PCBs, and DDTs were detected in all eel samples and some samples had high concentrations (up to 1400, 9500, 41,600 and 7000ng/g lw, respectively). PCB levels accounted for the majority of the contamination in most samples. The high variability in PBDE, HBCD, PCB and DDT concentrations reported here is likely due to the variety in sampling locations demonstrating variable local pollution pressures, from highly industrialised areas to small rural creeks. Among PBDEs, BDE-47 (57% contribution to the sum PBDEs), -100 (19%) and -99 (15%) were the predominant congeners, similar to the composition reported in the literature in eel samples. For HBCDs, α-HBCD (74%) was predominant followed by γ-(22%) and β-HBCD (4%) isomers in almost all eel samples. CB-153 (19%) was the most dominant PCB congener, closely followed by CB-138 (11%), CB-180 (9%), CB-187 (8%) and CB-149 (7%). The contribution to the total human exposure through local wild eel consumption was also highly variable. Intake of PBDEs and HBCDs, through consumption of wild eel, was below the RfD values for the average population (consuming on average 2.9g eel/day). At 16 out 60 sites, eels exceeded largely the new EU consumption threshold for PCBs (300ng/g ww for the sum of 6 indicator PCBs). The current data shows an on-going exposure of Flemish eels to PBDEs, HBCDs, PCBs and DDTs through indirect release from contaminated sediments or direct releases from various industries. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The use of the DR CALUX bioassay and indicator polychlorinated biphenyls for screening of elevated levels of dioxins and dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls in eel.

PubMed

Hoogenboom, Ron; Bovee, Toine; Traag, Win; Hoogerbrugge, Ronald; Baumann, Bert; Portier, Liza; van de Weg, Guido; de Vries, Jaap

2006-10-01

The DR CALUX bioassay is a very suitable screening method for dioxins and dioxin-like-PCBs in feed and food. This was, e. g. demonstrated in a survey in the Netherlands to control the dioxin levels in eel. The DR CALUX assay, but also indicator polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) were evaluated as a screening method. Based on the limit for polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans (PCDD/F) [at that time 8 pg toxic equivalents (TEQ)/g eel], and the relation between PCDD/F and dioxin-like-PCB, a decision limit of 30 pg TEQ/g eel was used for screening of 153 field samples. Suspected samples (21) and part of the higher contaminated negative samples (35) were analyzed by GC/MS for dioxins, non-ortho, mono-ortho and indicator PCB, revealing 13 samples exceeding the action limit of 30 pg TEQ/g eel. Only one sample slightly exceeded the dioxin level of 8 pg TEQ/g eel. The relatively low sensitivity for mono-ortho PCB was overcome by the use of reference samples, as shown by the correlation of 0.93 between GC/MS and CALUX determined total TEQ levels. The present data show that the DR CALUX assay can be used for screening of total TEQ levels in eel. The use for dioxins only requires a safe, and therefore relatively low, decision limit. The indicator PCB also showed a good correlation with total TEQ levels, mainly due to the large contribution of the mono-ortho PCB at higher concentrations. The relation with dioxins was very poor and as such indicator PCB seem less suitable than the DR CALUX assay for screening for dioxins only. The present study clearly shows that part of the wild eel samples contains high total TEQ levels and will exceed the future European Union limit of 12 pg TEQ/g eel for dioxins and dioxin-like PCB. Especially at high TEQ levels, dioxin-like PCB contribute most to the total TEQ. In practice, wild eel presents only a minor part of the eel consumed.

Passage of downstream migrant American eels through an airlift-assisted deep bypass

USGS Publications Warehouse

Haro, Alexander J.; Watten, Barnaby J.; Noreika, John

2016-01-01

Traditional downstream guidance and bypass facilities for anadromous fishes (i.e., surface bypasses, surface guidance structures, and behavioral barriers) have frequently been ineffective for anguillid eels. Because eels typically spend the majority of their time near the bottom in the vicinity of intake structures, deep bypass structures with entrances near the bottom hold promise for increased effectiveness, thereby aiding in the recovery of this important species. A new design of a deep bypass system that uses airlift technology (the Conte Airlift Bypass) to induce flow in a bypass pipe was tested in a simulated intake entrance environment under controlled laboratory conditions. Water velocities of 0.9–1.5 m s−1 could be generated at the bypass entrance (opening with 0.073 m2 area), with corresponding flows through the bypass pipe of 0.07–0.11 m3 s−1. Gas saturation and hydrostatic pressure within the bypass pipe did not vary appreciably from a control (no air) condition under tested airflows. Migratory silver-phase American eels (Anguilla rostrata) tested during dark conditions readily located, entered, and passed through the bypass; initial avoidance rates (eels approaching but not entering the bypass entrance) were lower at higher entrance velocities. Eels that investigated the bypass pipe entrance tended to enter headfirst, but those that then exited the pipe upstream did so more frequently at lower entrance velocities. Eels appeared to swim against the flow while being transported downstream through the pipe; median transit times through the bypass for each test velocity ranged from 5.8 to 12.2 s, with transit time decreasing with increasing entrance velocity. Eels did not show strong avoidance of the vertical section of the pipe which contained injected air. No mortality or injury of bypassed eels was observed, and individual eels repeatedly passed through the bypass at rates of up to 40 passes per hour, suggesting that individuals do not avoid repeated entrainment through the bypass. Airlift technology appears to be a viable method for increasing passage effectiveness for American eels through a deep bypass system.

Downstream passage and impact of turbine shutdowns on survival of silver American Eels at five hydroelectric dams on the Shenandoah River

USGS Publications Warehouse

Eyler, Sheila; Welsh, Stuart A.; Smith, David R.; Rockey, Mary

2016-01-01

Hydroelectric dams impact the downstream migrations of silver American Eels Anguilla rostrata via migratory delays and turbine mortality. A radiotelemetry study of American Eels was conducted to determine the impacts of five run-of-the-river hydroelectric dams located over a 195-km stretch of the Shenandoah River, Virginia–West Virginia, during fall 2007–summer 2010. Overall, 96 radio-tagged individuals (mean TL = 85.4 cm) migrated downstream past at least one dam during the study. Most American Eels passed dams relatively quickly; over half (57.9%) of the dam passage events occurred within 1 h of reaching a dam, and most (81.3%) occurred within 24 h of reaching the dam. Two-thirds of the dam passage events occurred via spill, and the remaining passage events were through turbines. Migratory delays at dams were shorter and American Eels were more likely to pass via spill over the dam during periods of high river discharge than during low river discharge. The extent of delay in migration did not differ between the passage routes (spill versus turbine). Twenty-eight American Eels suffered turbine-related mortality, which occurred at all five dams. Mortality rates for eels passing through turbines ranged from 15.8% to 40.7% at individual dams. Overall project-specific mortality rates (with all passage routes combined) ranged from 3.0% to 14.3%. To protect downstream-migrating American Eels, nighttime turbine shutdowns (1800–0600 hours) were implemented during September 15–December 15. Fifty percent of all downstream passage events in the study occurred during the turbine shutdown period. Implementation of the seasonal turbine shutdown period reduced cumulative mortality from 63.3% to 37.3% for American Eels passing all five dams. Modifying the turbine shutdown period to encompass more dates in the spring and linking the shutdowns to environmental conditions could provide greater protection to downstream-migrating American Eels.

Stage-specific distribution models can predict eel (Anguilla anguilla) occurrence during settlement in coastal lagoons

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leone, C.; Zucchetta, M.; Capoccioni, F.; Gravina, M. F.; Franzoi, P.; Ciccotti, E.

2016-03-01

Eel (Anguilla anguilla) is a catadromous fish species typical of Mediterranean coastal lagoons, that currently suffers from several anthropogenic and natural impacts. These are thought to be the cause of a stock-wide decline that this panmictic species is facing, in inland and coastal waters of Europe and North Africa. The decline affects both adult phases and recruitment, i.e. glass eel arrival to coastal waters and their ascent to inland waters. Quantitative features of eel recruitment reflect a transoceanic global scale, but also depend on local environmental conditions, the latter also affecting settlement dynamics in transitional waters. There is only little information on the dynamics of these two processes in coastal lagoons, notwithstanding the paramount importance of both in sustaining local stocks abundance and their demographic structure for this typical but also economically important inhabitant of Mediterranean lagoons, habitats that constitute an important share of the eel distribution area. The present study aims, therefore, to clarify space and time dynamics of local scale recruitment and of settlement in a coastal lagoon in the Mediterranean area, also by setting up a specific methodological approach. For this purpose, data from field surveys in combination with Species Distribution Models (SDMs) have been used in order to relate distribution of eel juvenile stages to the environmental conditions within the lagoon. Specifically, models were calibrated to quantify the relationship between presence of juvenile eel and the main environmental drivers, with the aim of identifying potential habitats for eel settlement within the lagoon. Results gained by modelling suggest certain spatial and temporal colonization patterns for the juvenile eel in the Fogliano lagoon, a typical Mediterranean coastal lake. The modelling approach has therefore proved to be a useful tool for predicting habitats for eel recruitment at the local scale and settlement, because adequate to catch the spatio-temporal dimensions of the processes under study, in coastal lagoon habitats.

Magnetic Compass Orientation in the European Eel

PubMed Central

Durif, Caroline M. F.; Browman, Howard I.; Phillips, John B.; Skiftesvik, Anne Berit; Vøllestad, L. Asbjørn; Stockhausen, Hans H.

2013-01-01

European eel migrate from freshwater or coastal habitats throughout Europe to their spawning grounds in the Sargasso Sea. However, their route (∼ 6000 km) and orientation mechanisms are unknown. Several attempts have been made to prove the existence of magnetoreception in Anguilla sp., but none of these studies have demonstrated magnetic compass orientation in earth-strength magnetic field intensities. We tested eels in four altered magnetic field conditions where magnetic North was set at geographic North, South, East, or West. Eels oriented in a manner that was related to the tank in which they were housed before the test. At lower temperature (under 12°C), their orientation relative to magnetic North corresponded to the direction of their displacement from the holding tank. At higher temperatures (12–17°C), eels showed bimodal orientation along an axis perpendicular to the axis of their displacement. These temperature-related shifts in orientation may be linked to the changes in behavior that occur between the warm season (during which eels are foraging) and the colder fall and winter (during which eels undertake their migrations). These observations support the conclusion that 1. eels have a magnetic compass, and 2. they use this sense to orient in a direction that they have registered moments before they are displaced. The adaptive advantage of having a magnetic compass and learning the direction in which they have been displaced becomes clear when set in the context of the eel’s seaward migration. For example, if their migration is halted or blocked, as it is the case when environmental conditions become unfavorable or when they encounter a barrier, eels would be able to resume their movements along their old bearing when conditions become favorable again or when they pass by the barrier. PMID:23554997

The giant mottled eel, Anguilla marmorata, uses blue-shifted rod photoreceptors during upstream migration.

PubMed

Wang, Feng-Yu; Fu, Wen-Chun; Wang, I-Li; Yan, Hong Young; Wang, Tzi-Yuan

2014-01-01

Catadromous fishes migrate between ocean and freshwater during particular phases of their life cycle. The dramatic environmental changes shape their physiological features, e.g. visual sensitivity, olfactory ability, and salinity tolerance. Anguilla marmorata, a catadromous eel, migrates upstream on dark nights, following the lunar cycle. Such behavior may be correlated with ontogenetic changes in sensory systems. Therefore, this study was designed to identify changes in spectral sensitivity and opsin gene expression of A. marmorata during upstream migration. Microspectrophotometry analysis revealed that the tropical eel possesses a duplex retina with rod and cone photoreceptors. The λmax of rod cells are 493, 489, and 489 nm in glass, yellow, and wild eels, while those of cone cells are 508, and 517 nm in yellow, and wild eels, respectively. Unlike European and American eels, Asian eels exhibited a blue-shifted pattern of rod photoreceptors during upstream migration. Quantitative gene expression analyses of four cloned opsin genes (Rh1f, Rh1d, Rh2, and SWS2) revealed that Rh1f expression is dominant at all three stages, while Rh1d is expressed only in older yellow eel. Furthermore, sequence comparison and protein modeling studies implied that a blue shift in Rh1d opsin may be induced by two known (N83, S292) and four putative (S124, V189, V286, I290) tuning sites adjacent to the retinal binding sites. Finally, expression of blue-shifted Rh1d opsin resulted in a spectral shift in rod photoreceptors. Our observations indicate that the giant mottled eel is color-blind, and its blue-shifted scotopic vision may influence its upstream migration behavior and habitat choice.

Oceanic migration and spawning of anguillid eels.

PubMed

Tsukamoto, K

2009-06-01

Many aspects of the life histories of anguillid eels have been revealed in recent decades, but the spawning migrations of their silver eels in the open ocean still remains poorly understood. This paper overviews what is known about the migration and spawning of anguillid species in the ocean. The factors that determine exactly when anguillid eels will begin their migrations are not known, although environmental influences such as lunar cycle, rainfall and river discharge seem to affect their patterns of movement as they migrate towards the ocean. Once in the ocean on their way to the spawning area, silver eels probably migrate in the upper few hundred metres, while reproductive maturation continues. Although involvement of a magnetic sense or olfactory cues seems probable, how they navigate or what routes they take are still a matter of speculation. There are few landmarks in the open ocean to define their spawning areas, other than oceanographic or geological features such as oceanic fronts or seamounts in some cases. Spawning of silver eels in the ocean has never been observed, but artificially matured eels of several species have exhibited similar spawning behaviours in the laboratory. Recent collections of mature adults and newly spawned preleptocephali in the spawning area of the Japanese eel Anguilla japonica have shown that spawning occurs during new moon periods in the North Equatorial Current region near the West Mariana Ridge. These data, however, show that the latitude of the spawning events can change among months and years depending on oceanographic conditions. Changes in spawning location of this and other anguillid species may affect their larval transport and survival, and appear to have the potential to influence recruitment success. A greater understanding of the spawning migration and the choice of spawning locations by silver eels is needed to help conserve declining anguillid species.

Retention and effects of miniature transmitters in juvenile American eels

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mueller, Robert P.; Janak, Jill; Liss, Stephanie A.

This study was conducted to assess the effects of a non-functional acoustic micro transmitter (tag) on survival, tag loss, and swimming ability of juvenile American eels (Anguilla rostrata). The transmitter was designed for implantation through a < 3 mm opening into the body cavity of anguilliform fishes without the need for sutures. American eels used for the swimming performance study were 113–175 mm (N = 120). There were two treatment groups (tagged and non-tagged), each treatment was split into six size groups of 10 mm for testing. Potential transmitter effects on swimming performance were examined by comparing critical swimming speedsmore » (Ucrit an index of prolonged swimming performance) for tagged and non-tagged eels. There was no significant difference in Ucrit between tagged and non-tagged eels for all of the size groups tested. Median Ucrits for tagged eels ranged from 50.2 cm/s for the smallest group tested (113–119 mm) to 63.9 cm/s for fish 141–150 mm in length. Non-tagged group median Ucrits ranged from 47.2 cm/s for the smallest group to 66.9 cm/s for the 141–150 mm group. An additional 26 eels (115–208 mm) were tagged and held for 38 d (without undergoing swimming performance tests) to determine the effects on survival and tag loss. There was no mortality during the holding period and the majority of the tag loss occurred after 20 days post-tagging, which is the current projected life of the tag. Our results indicate that micro acoustic tags can be successfully implanted in juvenile American eels with no apparent impacts to swimming ability, and would be a viable option for examining eel movement patterns in river systems and near hydroelectric facilities.« less

33 CFR 117.598 - Eel Pond Channel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false Eel Pond Channel. 117.598 Section 117.598 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY BRIDGES DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Massachusetts § 117.598 Eel Pond Channel. The...

33 CFR 117.598 - Eel Pond Channel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false Eel Pond Channel. 117.598 Section 117.598 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY BRIDGES DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Massachusetts § 117.598 Eel Pond Channel. The...

33 CFR 117.598 - Eel Pond Channel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false Eel Pond Channel. 117.598 Section 117.598 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY BRIDGES DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Massachusetts § 117.598 Eel Pond Channel. The...

33 CFR 117.598 - Eel Pond Channel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Eel Pond Channel. 117.598 Section 117.598 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY BRIDGES DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Massachusetts § 117.598 Eel Pond Channel. The...

33 CFR 117.598 - Eel Pond Channel.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 33 Navigation and Navigable Waters 1 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Eel Pond Channel. 117.598 Section 117.598 Navigation and Navigable Waters COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY BRIDGES DRAWBRIDGE OPERATION REGULATIONS Specific Requirements Massachusetts § 117.598 Eel Pond Channel. The...

Karyological and gonadal sex of eels (Anguilla anguilla) from the German Bight and the lower River Elbe

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Passakas, T.; Tesch, F.-W.

1980-06-01

Yellow eels (Anguilla anguilla) taken during summer from random commercial trapnet samples in the littoral area of Helgoland (n=116) and from a freshwater area of the River Elbe near Hamburg (n=109) were examined with regard to their karyological (i.e. existence of female sex chromosomes) and gonadal sex. In 47 % and 21 % of the two samples, respectively, chromosomes were unidentifiable because of insufficient numbers of mitotic plates. All eels from Helgoland, except one phenotypically undetermined fish, exhibited female gonads: 48 had female sex chromosomes and 13 were karyologically males. As found previously in the River Elbe, eels with male gonads predominated (n=55); 25 were undifferentiated. Of the gonadal males 26 were karyological males and 16 karyological females; the rest could not be identified by chromosome patterns. In contrast, all but one of the Elbe eels with female gonads (n=28) had female sex chromosomes. Some aspects of the sex reversal documented in the eel are considered.

Head shape disparity impacts pollutant accumulation in European eel.

PubMed

De Meyer, Jens; Belpaire, Claude; Boeckx, Pascal; Bervoets, Lieven; Covaci, Adrian; Malarvannan, Govindan; De Kegel, Barbara; Adriaens, Dominique

2018-05-08

Several aspects of the life cycle of the critically endangered European eel (Anguilla anguilla) remain poorly understood. One such aspect is the broad-versus narrow-head dimorphism, and how this impacts their overall performance at different stages of their life cycle. At the yellow eel stage, the phenotypes show a trophic divergence. We investigated whether pollutant accumulation is affected by this disparity. We show that broad-headed eels contained higher concentrations of mercury and several lipophilic organic pollutants, compared to narrow-headed ones, irrespective of their fat content. The hereby confirmed link between the phenotypic disparity, its associated feeding ecology and its impact on pollutant accumulation thus raises further concerns about their migratory and reproductive success. Considering that pollution is an important contributor to the European eel's decline, our results demonstrate that broad-headed eels are more vulnerable to detrimental pollutant accumulation. This compromises their successful contribution to their population's reproduction and its restoration. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Influence of Anguillicola crassus (Nematoda) and Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ciliophora) on swimming activity of European eel Anguilla anguilla.

PubMed

Münderle, M; Sures, B; Taraschewski, H

2004-08-09

We investigated the swimming activity of 70 European eels Anguilla anguilla in relation to natural infection with 2 parasite species: the eel-specific swimbladder nematode Anguillicola crassus and the non-specific skin and gill protozoan Ichthyophthirius multifiliis. We measured how long individual eels exposed to a water current in a swimming channel with a steady-stream profile could withstand the water current. The parasites affected the swimming behaviour of eels in different ways. The maximum period of time the fish were able to swim against the current was not correlated with infection by A. crassus. In contrast, infection with I. multifiliis reduced the swimming time. The protozoan has a higher pathogenicity than the swimbladder nematode, at least in closed systems, where I. multifiliis is able to spread within a few days. Reduction in swimming capacity after infection with the ciliate averaged 47 % compared to capacity prior to infection. Thus, our results do not support the previously suggested strong negative relation between swimming activity of eels and intensity of A. crassus infection, at least in the short-term. However, there are indications in the literature that the pathological effects of A. crassus on the eel swimmbladder may involve a higher energy demand, possibly manifested in a prolonged spawning migration. As a result, eels heavily infected with this parasite may arrive too late at the spawning site to participate in mating. This could ensure a selection of 'good genes'.

Impact of long-term habitat loss on the Japanese eel Anguilla japonica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Jian-Ze; Huang, Shiang-Lin; Han, Yu-San

2014-12-01

Since the 1970s, the loss of temperate-zone anguillid eels, particularly Anguilla anguilla, Anguilla rostrata, and Anguilla japonica, has exceeded 90% based on estimates of glass eel recruitment. The cause of this decline has not been conclusively determined, although many factors have been proposed. In East Asia, the consequences of long-term habitat loss and deterioration of habitat quality on the sustainability of Japanese eel resources are important. Impacts have already occurred and are expected to increase because hundreds of millions of people live near estuaries and rivers that have undergone, and further, are expected to continue to undergo, substantial changes in land use. Driven by economic growth, these landscape changes have resulted in, and may continue to produce, the large-scale destruction of eel habitats. We used chronological Landsat imagery to measure Japanese eel habitat reduction from human activities in 16 rivers in East Asia, including Japan, Korea, Taiwan, and China. On average, 76.8% of the effective habitat area (Ae) was lost in these 16 rivers from the 1970s-2010s. Taiwan and China had the highest percentages of Ae loss, with declines of 49.3% and 81.5%, respectively. Extensive habitat loss may play an important role, together with regional climate phenomena such as the ENSO and overfishing, in the decline of the Japanese eel in East Asia. Measures targeting habitat restoration and protection may need to be integrated into management planning for Japanese eel resources in an international rather than regional context.

Environmental correlates of upstream migration of yellow-phase American eels in the Potomac River drainage

USGS Publications Warehouse

Welsh, Stuart A.; Heather L. Liller,

2013-01-01

Assessing the relationships between upstream migration and environmental variables is important to understanding the ecology of yellow-phase American Eels Anguilla rostrata. During an American Eel migration study within the lower Shenandoah River (Potomac River drainage), we counted and measured American Eels at the Millville Dam eel ladder for three periods: 14 May–23 July 2004, 7–30 September 2004, and 1 June–31 July 2005. Using generalized estimating equations, we modeled each time series of daily American Eel counts by fitting time-varying environmental covariates of lunar illumination (LI), river discharge (RD), and water temperature (WT), including 1-d and 2-d lags of each covariate. Information-theoretic approaches were used for model selection and inference. A total of 4,847 American Eels (19–74 cm total length) used the ladder during the three periods, including 2,622 individuals during a 2-d span following a hurricane-induced peak in river discharge. Additive-effects models of RD + WT, a 2-d lag of LI + RD, and LI + RD were supported for the three periods, respectively. Parameter estimates were positive for river discharge for each time period, negative for lunar illumination for two periods and positive for water temperature during one period. Additive-effects models supported synergistic influences of environmental variables on the upstream migration of yellow-phase American Eels, although river discharge was consistently supported as an influential correlate of upstream migration.

Sexually dimorphic gene expressions in eels: useful markers for early sex assessment in a conservation context

PubMed Central

Geffroy, Benjamin; Guilbaud, Florian; Amilhat, Elsa; Beaulaton, Laurent; Vignon, Matthias; Huchet, Emmanuel; Rives, Jacques; Bobe, Julien; Fostier, Alexis; Guiguen, Yann; Bardonnet, Agnès

2016-01-01

Environmental sex determination (ESD) has been detected in a range of vertebrate reptile and fish species. Eels are characterized by an ESD that occurs relatively late, since sex cannot be histologically determined before individuals reach 28 cm. Because several eel species are at risk of extinction, assessing sex at the earliest stage is a crucial management issue. Based on preliminary results of RNA sequencing, we targeted genes susceptible to be differentially expressed between ovaries and testis at different stages of development. Using qPCR, we detected testis-specific expressions of dmrt1, amh, gsdf and pre-miR202 and ovary-specific expressions were obtained for zar1, zp3 and foxn5. We showed that gene expressions in the gonad of intersexual eels were quite similar to those of males, supporting the idea that intersexual eels represent a transitional stage towards testicular differentiation. To assess whether these genes would be effective early molecular markers, we sampled juvenile eels in two locations with highly skewed sex ratios. The combined expression of six of these genes allowed the discrimination of groups according to their potential future sex and thus this appears to be a useful tool to estimate sex ratios of undifferentiated juvenile eels. PMID:27658729

Distribution and abundance of American eels in the White Oak River estuary, North Carolina

USGS Publications Warehouse

Hightower, J.E.; Nesnow, C.

2006-01-01

Apparent widespread declines in abundance of Anguilla rostrata (American eel) have reinforced the need for information regarding its life history and status. We used commercial eel pots and crab (peeler) pots to examine the distribution, condition, and abundance of American eels within the White Oak River estuary, NC, during summers of 2002-2003. Catch of American eels per overnight set was 0.35 (SE = 0.045) in 2002 and 0.49 (SE = 0.044) in 2003. There was not a significant linear relationship between catch per set and depth in 2002 (P = 0.31, depth range 0.9-3.4 m) or 2003 (P = 0.18, depth range 0.6-3.4 m). American eels from the White Oak River were in good condition, based on the slope of a length-weight relationship (3.41) compared to the median slope (3.15) from other systems. Estimates of population density from grid sampling in 2003 (300 mm and larger: 4.0-13.8 per ha) were similar to estimates for the Hudson River estuary, but substantially less than estimates from other (smaller) systems including tidal creeks within estuaries. Density estimates from coastal waters can be used with harvest records to examine whether overfishing has contributed to the recent apparent declines in American eel abundance.

Sexually dimorphic gene expressions in eels: useful markers for early sex assessment in a conservation context

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geffroy, Benjamin; Guilbaud, Florian; Amilhat, Elsa; Beaulaton, Laurent; Vignon, Matthias; Huchet, Emmanuel; Rives, Jacques; Bobe, Julien; Fostier, Alexis; Guiguen, Yann; Bardonnet, Agnès

2016-09-01

Environmental sex determination (ESD) has been detected in a range of vertebrate reptile and fish species. Eels are characterized by an ESD that occurs relatively late, since sex cannot be histologically determined before individuals reach 28 cm. Because several eel species are at risk of extinction, assessing sex at the earliest stage is a crucial management issue. Based on preliminary results of RNA sequencing, we targeted genes susceptible to be differentially expressed between ovaries and testis at different stages of development. Using qPCR, we detected testis-specific expressions of dmrt1, amh, gsdf and pre-miR202 and ovary-specific expressions were obtained for zar1, zp3 and foxn5. We showed that gene expressions in the gonad of intersexual eels were quite similar to those of males, supporting the idea that intersexual eels represent a transitional stage towards testicular differentiation. To assess whether these genes would be effective early molecular markers, we sampled juvenile eels in two locations with highly skewed sex ratios. The combined expression of six of these genes allowed the discrimination of groups according to their potential future sex and thus this appears to be a useful tool to estimate sex ratios of undifferentiated juvenile eels.

Accumulation of persistent organic pollutants in consumers of eel from polluted rivers compared to marketable eel.

PubMed

van den Dungen, Myrthe W; Kok, Dieuwertje E; Polder, Anuschka; Hoogenboom, Ron L A P; van Leeuwen, Stefan P J; Steegenga, Wilma T; Kampman, Ellen; Murk, Albertinka J

2016-12-01

Globally, many river sediments are seriously contaminated with persistent organic pollutants (POPs) known to accumulate in aquatic food. In the Netherlands, toxicological risks of human exposure to dioxins and dioxin-like compounds led to a ban on eel fishing in the Rhine-Meuse delta. The aim of this study is to investigate differences in serum POP levels in consumers of eel from high-polluted areas and consumers of eel from low-polluted areas or aquaculture. In total 80 Dutch men were included, aged 40-70 years, with a habitual eel consumption of at least one portion (150 g) per month. Total levels of dioxins and dioxin-like compounds were measured in serum of all participants with the DR CALUX bioassay, validated with GC-MS. For a subgroup of 38 participants extensive POP measurements were performed. We revealed that consumption of eel from polluted rivers resulted in 2.5 and up to 10 times increased levels of dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) respectively compared to controls. The highest PCB levels were detected for PCB 153, with a median level of 896 ng/g lipid and a maximum level of 5000 ng/g lipid in the high-exposed group. Furthermore, hydroxylated PCB metabolites (OH-PCBs: sum of 4-OH-CB107, 4-OH-CB146, 4'-OH-CB172, and 4-OH-CB187) were 8 times higher in men who consumed eel from polluted areas, and detected at levels (median 4.5 ng/g ww) reported to cause adverse health effects. Also, the majority of the perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) were significantly higher in consumers of eel from pullulated areas. In conclusion, this study is the first to reveal that (past) consumption of eel from polluted rivers resulted in high body burdens of dioxins, PCBs, OH-PCBs and PFASs. We confirmed the predictions made in a former risk assessment, and the high levels of dioxins and dioxin-like compounds as well as the OH-PCBs are of health concern. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Isolation of heat-tolerant myoglobin from Asian swamp eel Monopterus albus.

PubMed

Chotichayapong, Chatrachatchaya; Wiengsamut, Kittipong; Chanthai, Saksit; Sattayasai, Nison; Tamiya, Toru; Kanzawa, Nobuyuki; Tsuchiya, Takahide

2012-10-01

Myoglobin from Asian swamp eel Monopterus albus was purified from fish muscle using salt fractionation followed by column chromatography and molecular filtration. The purified Mb of 0.68 mg/g wet weight of muscle was determined for its molecular mass by MALDI-TOF-MS to be 15,525.18 Da. Using isoelectric focusing technique, the purified Mb showed two derivatives with pI of 6.40 and 7.12. Six peptide fragments of this protein identified by LC-MS/MS were homologous to Mbs of sea raven Hemitripterus americanus, yellowfin tuna Thunnus albacores, blue marlin Makaira nigicans, common carp Cyprinus carpio, and goldfish Carassius auratus. According to the Mb denaturation, the swamp eel Mb had thermal stability higher than walking catfish Clarias batrachus Mb and striped catfish Pangasius hypophthalmus Mb, between 30 and 60 (°)C. For the thermal stability of Mb, the swamp eel Mb showed a biphasic behavior due to the O(2) dissociation and the heme orientation disorder, with the lowest increase in both Kd(f) and Kd(s). The thermal sensitivity of swamp eel Mb was lower than those of the other Mbs for both of fast and slow reaction stages. These results suggest that the swamp eel Mb globin structure is thermally stable, which is consistent with heat-tolerant behavior of the swamp eel particularly in drought habitat.

Expression and localization of aquaporin 1b during oocyte development in the Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica)

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underling hydration during oocyte maturation, we characterized the structure of Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) novel-water selective aquaporin 1 (AQP1b) that thought to be involved in oocyte hydration. The aqp1b cDNA encodes a 263 amino acid protein that includes the six potential transmembrane domains and two Asn-Pro-Ala motifs. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction showed transcription of Japanese eel aqp1b in ovary and testis but not in the other tissues. In situ hybridization studies with the eel aqp1b cRNA probe revealed intense eel aqp1b signal in the oocytes at the perinucleolus stage and the signals became faint during the process of oocyte development. Light microscopic immunocytochemical analysis of ovary revealed that the Japanese eel AQP1b was expressed in the cytoplasm around the yolk globules which were located in the peripheral region of oocytes during the primary yolk globule stage; thereafter, the immunoreactivity was observed throughout the cytoplasm of oocyte as vitellogenesis progressed. The immunoreactivity became localized around the large membrane-limited yolk masses which were formed by the fusion of yolk globules during the oocyte maturation phase. These results together indicate that AQP1b, which is synthesized in the oocyte during the process of oocyte growth, is essential for mediating water uptake into eel oocytes. PMID:21615964

Anthropogenic spreading of anguillid herpesvirus 1 by stocking of infected farmed European eels, Anguilla anguilla (L.), in the Schlei fjord in northern Germany.

PubMed

Kullmann, B; Adamek, M; Steinhagen, D; Thiel, R

2017-11-01

The Schlei fjord in northern Germany is the recipient water of a comprehensive eel, Anguilla anguilla (L.), stocking programme. Since 2015, stocked eels become alizarin red S marked, but to date no control mechanism is implemented in this stock enhancement measure to prevent anthropogenic spreading of diseases. Consequentially, it was possible that farmed stocking cohorts of 2015 and 2016 (in total ca. 1040 kg) were subsequently tested positive for anguillid herpesvirus 1 (AngHV 1). For this study, 100 eels [total length (TL) 24.3-72.9 cm, age ca. 1-6 years] were caught in 2016 and investigated with regard to AngHV 1 infection, parasite load (Anguillicoloides crassus) and body conditions. 68% of the eels were found to be virus positive while larger specimens were more often infected. In addition, a fitted generalized linear model (area under the curve = 0.741) demonstrated that an increase in individual TL is accompanied with an increased risk of clinically relevant virus loads. Anguillicoloides crassus turned out to be an important stressor for eels, because parasite and virus load revealed a significant positive correlation. The results of this study evidently show the urgent need of a disease containment strategy for eel stocking programmes. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Gnathostoma infection in fish caught for local consumption in Nakhon Nayok Province, Thailand. II. Deasonal variation in swamp eels.

PubMed

Rojekittikhun, Wichit; Chaiyasith, Tossapon; Butraporn, Piyarat

2004-12-01

From August 2000 to August 2001, 1844 swamp eels (Monopterus albus) were purchased from several local markets in Nakhon Nayok Province, Thailand, and examined for the presence of Gnathostoma advanced third-stage larvae. The overall prevalence was 30.1% and the mean number of larvae/eel (infection intensity) was 10.0. The highest infection rate (44.1%) was found in August 2000 and the lowest (10.7%) in March 2001. The greatest mean number of larvae/eel (75.1) was found in August 2000, whereas the fewest (2.3) was in July 2001. It is suggested that the prevalence and intensity of infection decreased within two months after the end of the rainy season and started to rise again about two months after the next rainy season began. A total of 5,532 Gnathostoma larvae were recovered from 555 infected eels, with a maximum number of 698 larvae/eel. The highest rates of Gnathostoma infection according to eel body length and weight were 87.5% in the group 91-100 cm, and 100% in groups of 901-1100 g, respectively. There were significant correlations between eel body lengths and infection rates, body lengths and infection intensities; eel body weights were also significantly correlated with infection rates and infection intensities. It was noted that the longer/ heavier the eels were, the higher would be the infection rates and the greater the infection intensities. Tissue distributions of Gnathostoma larvae in the livers and muscles of swamp eels were as follows: 43.0% of the total number of larvae were found in the muscles and 57.0% were in the liver; 29.7, 51.7, and 18.6% were in the anterior, middle, and posterior parts, respectively; 35.1% were in the dorsal part, while 64.9% were in the ventral part; 9.0, 18.7, 7.4, 20.6, 33.1, and 11.2% were in the anterodorsal, mediodorsal, posterodorsal, anteroventral, medioventral and posteroventral parts, respectively. Of the 5,532 Gnathostoma larvae examined, 1101 (19.9%) were found to possess morphological variants or abnormal cephalic hooklets. The most common unusual feature was that there were few to numerous extra rudimentary hooklets below row 4 and between the 4 rows of hooklets (7.6%), the presence of a fifth row of hooklets (3.5%), abnormal hooklets in any of the 4 rows of hooklets (5.2%), spiral arrangement of the 4 rows of hooklets (1.8%), and larvae having only 3 rows of hooklets (0.3%).

Past distributions of the European freshwater eel from archaeological and palaeontological evidence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kettle, A. J.; Heinrich, D.; Barrett, J. H.; Benecke, N.; Locker, A.

2008-07-01

The spatial distribution of the European freshwater eel ( Anguilla anguilla) was very different in historic and prehistoric times in comparison to the present. A database of the spatial and temporal distribution of eel remains in archaeological and palaeontological sites is presented and used to assess the spatial distribution of populations from the height of the last glacial maximum. The results show that the eel was absent from northern Europe until about 11 000 years ago. The reason was probably a southerly displacement of the Gulf Stream carrying the larval migration from the Sargasso Sea. However, additional factors preventing eel populations in northern Europe may have also been the colder temperatures in the Arctic tundra landscape that existed at the time and the extreme distance to the European Atlantic coast along the Channel River. The archaeological record shows that eels were absent from the Baltic Sea until about 6700 cal BC, but there is some indication of an earlier presence during the Yoldia Sea stage at the beginning of the Holocene. Only in southern Europe south of the Gironde river basin were eel populations maintained through the last glaciation. The species may have survived the last glaciation in a relatively restricted area in the Mediterranean and the Atlantic coast of western Europe. Published palaeontological and genetic information gives important insights into climatic, geologic, and tectonic events on longer time scales. The oldest subfossil remains from Pleistocene sediments in northern Europe are approaching the age of the estimated genetic divergence of the European and American eel populations, and hence the species identity of the oldest subfossil remains may be ambiguous.

Lipid increases in European eel (Anguilla anguilla) in Scotland 1986-2008: an assessment of physical parameters and the influence of organic pollutants.

PubMed

Oliver, Ian W; Macgregor, Kenneth; Godfrey, Jason D; Harris, Lynsay; Duguid, Alistair

2015-05-01

Recruitment of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) has fallen steadily in recent decades, with current levels understood to be at around 5% of those in the 1970s, and the species is now widely recognised as being endangered. Changes in ocean currents, climate shifts, habitat loss, overfishing, barriers to migration, increased predation, plastic litter and exposure to chemicals have all been postulated as potential causative factors. Several studies have shown a general decline in eel quality (lower lipid content and body condition) over time that may be linked to reduced reproductive success. In this study, data from an eel sampling campaign in 1987 are compared with recent data (2004-2008) for eels in Scotland to assess any temporal changes in eel quality indicators and also to assess any links between current levels of chemical exposure and eel quality. Mean lipid levels, as a percentage of wet muscle mass, were higher in 2004-2008 (37 ± 1.9% SE) than in 1986 (21 ± 0.9% SE). By contrast, mean body condition index (K) was slightly lower in the latter period. Considering the 2004-2008 samples, significant inter-site variation was observed for condition index K, while intra-site variation was observed for lipid content and physical parameters relative to age (i.e. mass/age, length/age and lipid/age ratios); however, the variations observed could not be linked to differences in chemical body burdens, indicating that no chemical impacts on the parameters assessed are discernible during the continental life stage of eels in Scotland.

De Novo Assembly of the Whole Transcriptome of the Wild Embryo, Preleptocephalus, Leptocephalus, and Glass Eel of Anguilla japonica and Deciphering the Digestive and Absorptive Capacities during Early Development.

PubMed

Hsu, Hsiang-Yi; Chen, Shu-Hwa; Cha, Yuh-Ru; Tsukamoto, Katsumi; Lin, Chung-Yen; Han, Yu-San

2015-01-01

Natural stocks of Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) have decreased drastically because of overfishing, habitat destruction, and changes in the ocean environment over the past few decades. However, to date, artificial mass production of glass eels is far from reality because of the lack of appropriate feed for the eel larvae. In this study, wild glass eel, leptocephali, preleptocephali, and embryos were collected to conduct RNA-seq. Approximately 279 million reads were generated and assembled into 224,043 transcripts. The transcript levels of genes coding for digestive enzymes and nutrient transporters were investigated to estimate the capacities for nutrient digestion and absorption during early development. The results showed that the transcript levels of protein digestion enzymes were higher than those of carbohydrate and lipid digestion enzymes in the preleptocephali and leptocephali, and the transcript levels of amino acid transporters were also higher than those of glucose and fructose transporters and the cholesterol transporter. In addition, the transcript levels of glucose and fructose transporters were significantly raising in the leptocephali. Moreover, the transcript levels of protein, carbohydrate, and lipid digestion enzymes were balanced in the glass eel, but the transcript levels of amino acid transporters were higher than those of glucose and cholesterol transporters. These findings implied that preleptocephali and leptocephali prefer high-protein food, and the nutritional requirements of monosaccharides and lipids for the eel larvae vary with growth. An online database (http://molas.iis.sinica.edu.tw/jpeel/) that will provide the sequences and the annotated results of assembled transcripts was established for the eel research community.

De Novo Assembly of the Whole Transcriptome of the Wild Embryo, Preleptocephalus, Leptocephalus, and Glass Eel of Anguilla japonica and Deciphering the Digestive and Absorptive Capacities during Early Development

PubMed Central

Cha, Yuh-Ru; Tsukamoto, Katsumi; Lin, Chung-Yen; Han, Yu-San

2015-01-01

Natural stocks of Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) have decreased drastically because of overfishing, habitat destruction, and changes in the ocean environment over the past few decades. However, to date, artificial mass production of glass eels is far from reality because of the lack of appropriate feed for the eel larvae. In this study, wild glass eel, leptocephali, preleptocephali, and embryos were collected to conduct RNA-seq. Approximately 279 million reads were generated and assembled into 224,043 transcripts. The transcript levels of genes coding for digestive enzymes and nutrient transporters were investigated to estimate the capacities for nutrient digestion and absorption during early development. The results showed that the transcript levels of protein digestion enzymes were higher than those of carbohydrate and lipid digestion enzymes in the preleptocephali and leptocephali, and the transcript levels of amino acid transporters were also higher than those of glucose and fructose transporters and the cholesterol transporter. In addition, the transcript levels of glucose and fructose transporters were significantly raising in the leptocephali. Moreover, the transcript levels of protein, carbohydrate, and lipid digestion enzymes were balanced in the glass eel, but the transcript levels of amino acid transporters were higher than those of glucose and cholesterol transporters. These findings implied that preleptocephali and leptocephali prefer high-protein food, and the nutritional requirements of monosaccharides and lipids for the eel larvae vary with growth. An online database (http://molas.iis.sinica.edu.tw/jpeel/) that will provide the sequences and the annotated results of assembled transcripts was established for the eel research community. PMID:26406914

Imported Asian swamp eels (Synbranchidae: Monopterus) in North American live food markets: Potential vectors of non-native parasites

USGS Publications Warehouse

Nico, Leo G.; Sharp, Paul; Collins, Timothy M.

2011-01-01

Since the 1990s, possibly earlier, large numbers of Asian swamp eels (Synbranchidae: Monopterus spp.), some wild-caught, have been imported live from various countries in Asia and sold in ethnic food markets in cities throughout the USA and parts of Canada. Such markets are the likely introduction pathway of some, perhaps most, of the five known wild populations of Asian swamp eels present in the continental United States. This paper presents results of a pilot study intended to gather baseline data on the occurrence and abundance of internal macroparasites infecting swamp eels imported from Asia to North American retail food markets. These data are important in assessing the potential role that imported swamp eels may play as possible vectors of non-native parasites. Examination of the gastrointestinal tracts and associated tissues of 19 adult-sized swamp eels—identified as M. albus "Clade C"—imported from Vietnam and present in a U.S. retail food market revealed that 18 (95%) contained macroparasites. The 394 individual parasites recovered included a mix of nematodes, acanthocephalans, cestodes, digeneans, and pentastomes. The findings raise concern because of the likelihood that some parasites infecting market swamp eels imported from Asia are themselves Asian taxa, some possibly new to North America. The ecological risk is exacerbated because swamp eels sold in food markets are occasionally retained live by customers and a few reportedly released into the wild. For comparative purposes, M. albus "Clade C" swamp eels from a non-native population in Florida (USA) were also examined and most (84%) were found to be infected with internal macroparasites. The current level of analysis does not allow us to confirm whether these are non-native parasites.

Tidal-Flat Macrobenthos as Diets of the Japanese Eel Anguilla japonica in Western Japan, with a Note on the Occurrence of a Parasitic Nematode Heliconema anguillae in Eel Stomachs.

PubMed

Kan, Kotaro; Sato, Masanori; Nagasawa, Kazuya

2016-02-01

Dietary items of the Japanese eel Anguilla japonica inhabiting estuaries were examined by analyses of the gut (stomach and intestine) contents in two areas in Kyushu, western Japan. In a small estuary in Kagoshima Bay, where seven eel guts were examined, almost all of the dietary organisms consisted of Hemigrapsus crabs and Hediste polychaetes, both of which commonly occurred on tidal flats of this site during our survey on the macrobenthic fauna. In another large estuary in the innermost part of the Ariake Sea, where 14 eel guts were examined, 11 macrobenthic species (nine crustaceans, a polychaete, and a gastropod) were found in the gut contents, mostly consisting of mudflat-specific species. The dietary items are almost completely different not only between the two estuaries, but also among three neighboring sites within the large estuary in the Ariake Sea. These results show that Japanese eels feed on various macrobenthic invertebrates inhabiting estuarine tidal flats at each site. The variety of the prey species occupying different habitats indicates that their foraging areas extend to a wide range of estuarine tidal flats from the upper to lower littoral zones. The physalopterid nematode Heliconema anguillae was found parasitic in eel stomachs in both estuaries. The prevalence of the nematode was higher in the estuary in Kagoshima Bay (100%) than that in the Ariake Sea (43%), although the intensity in the former (4-94 nematodes per infected stomach) was comparable to that of the latter (2-96). The relationship between the nematode infection and the dietary items of Japanese eels is discussed.

Quality attributes of farmed eel (Anguilla anguilla) stored under air, vacuum and modified atmosphere packaging at 0 degrees C.

PubMed

Arkoudelos, John; Stamatis, Nikolaos; Samaras, Fotis

2007-01-01

The shelf life of fresh eel in various packaging conditions of atmospheric air, vacuum and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) (40% CO(2), 30% N(2) and 30% O(2)) at 0 degrees C was investigated. All raw eel samples received acceptable sensory scores during the first 11+/-1 days of storage in atmospheric air, 11+/-1 days of storage in vacuum and finally 18+/-1 days of storage in MAP conditions. Using the microbial quality indicators the shelf life of eel packed in air, vacuum and MAP was estimated to be more than 18, 28 and 34 days, respectively. The main spoilage microorganisms under MAP conditions were lactic acid producing bacteria followed by Shewanella spp., pseudomonads, Enterobacteriaceae and yeasts. Chemical data revealed that pH, ammonia, glucose and lactate examinations might not be useful for monitoring eel quality differences.

Electric eels use high-voltage to track fast-moving prey

PubMed Central

Catania, Kenneth C.

2015-01-01

Electric eels (Electrophorus electricus) are legendary for their ability to incapacitate fish, humans, and horses with hundreds of volts of electricity. The function of this output as a weapon has been obvious for centuries but its potential role for electroreception has been overlooked. Here it is shown that electric eels use high-voltage simultaneously as a weapon and for precise and rapid electrolocation of fast-moving prey and conductors. Their speed, accuracy, and high-frequency pulse rate are reminiscent of bats using a ‘terminal feeding buzz' to track insects. Eel's exhibit ‘sensory conflict' when mechanosensory and electrosensory cues are separated, striking first toward mechanosensory cues and later toward conductors. Strikes initiated in the absence of conductors are aborted. In addition to providing new insights into the evolution of strongly electric fish and showing electric eels to be far more sophisticated than previously described, these findings reveal a trait with markedly dichotomous functions. PMID:26485580

Phthalate metabolites in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) from Mediterranean coastal lagoons.

PubMed

Fourgous, C; Chevreuil, M; Alliot, F; Amilhat, E; Faliex, E; Paris-Palacios, S; Teil, M J; Goutte, A

2016-11-01

The levels and fate of phthalate metabolites have been poorly evaluated in fish, despite their potential ecotoxicological impacts. The present study aims to characterize the levels of phthalate metabolites in muscle tissue of yellow eels (Anguilla anguilla) from two coastal Mediterranean lagoons, during three sampling periods. Nine phthalate metabolites were detected in >70% of the samples. Slightly higher levels of phthalate metabolites were detected in March and June compared to October, suggesting possible seasonal variations in environmental release and/or phthalate metabolization process by eels. The large sample size (N=117) made it possible to explore correlations between phthalate metabolites' levels and individual parameters, such as body length, age, body condition and hepatic histo-pathologies. Body length and estimated age poorly correlated with phthalate metabolites, suggesting that eels did not accumulate phthalates during growth, contrary to persistent compounds. Eels presented different grades of hepatic fibrosis and lipidosis. A negative correlation was found between the severity of these pathologies in the liver and the sum of phthalate metabolites levels, supporting the hypothesis that eels with damaged liver are less able to metabolize xenobiotics. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Structure, properties and enhanced expression of galactose-binding C-type lectins in mucous cells of gills from freshwater Japanese eels (Anguilla japonica).

PubMed

Mistry, A C; Honda, S; Hirose, S

2001-11-15

Using a Japanese-eel (Anguilla japonica) gill cDNA subtraction library, two novel beta-d-galactose-binding lectins were identified that belong to group VII of the animal C-type lectin family. The eel C-type lectins, termed eCL-1 and eCL-2, are simple lectins composed of 163 amino acid residues, including a 22-residue signal peptide for secretion and a single carbohydrate-recognition domain (CRD) of approximately 130 residues typical of C-type lectins. The galactose specificity of the CRD was suggested by the presence of a QPD motif and confirmed by a competitive binding assay. Using Ruthenium Red staining, the lectins were shown to bind Ca(2+) ions. SDS/PAGE showed that native eCL-1 and eCL-2 have an SDS-resistant octameric structure (a tetramer of disulphide-linked dimers). Northern and Western blot analyses demonstrated high-level expression of eCL-1 and eCL-2 mRNAs and their protein products in gills from freshwater eels, which decreased markedly when the eels were transferred from freshwater to seawater. Immunohistochemistry showed that the eel lectins are localized in the exocrine mucous cells of the gill.

Contamination, parasitism and condition of Anguilla anguilla in three Italian stocks.

PubMed

Quadroni, Silvia; Galassi, Silvana; Capoccioni, Fabrizio; Ciccotti, Eleonora; Grandi, Gilberto; De Leo, Giulio A; Bettinetti, Roberta

2013-01-01

In conjunction with habitat loss and overfishing, pollution and parasitism are believed to be relevant causes of collapse of Anguilla, as these can affect eel swimming ability and the development of gonads and embryos. The present study investigated Persistent Organic Pollutant (POP) concentrations, infection levels of Anguillicoloides crassus, lipid content and gonad abnormalities in eels sampled in 2007-2008 in three Italian water bodies (Caprolace Lake, Lesina Lagoon and Tevere River) that vary in salinity, trophic condition, contamination level and fishing pressure. Our analysis revealed that low-to-moderate levels of contamination and parasitism were not associated with gonad abnormalities in Caprolace Lake and Lesina Lagoon. On the contrary, POP concentrations and abundances of swim bladder nematodes were remarkably high in eels from the heavily urbanized Tevere River and were associated with significant gonad and swim bladder alterations. Contamination and infestation levels were so high to potentially impair spawner successful migration and reproduction. POP concentrations in Tevere eels also exceeded levels considered safe for food consumption. Though marginally contaminated, eels from the oligotrophic Caprolace Lake were in critical health condition: their lipid reserve was so low as to be considered insufficient to sustain the energetic costs of the transoceanic migration. Lesina eel stock was the only one displaying relatively good quality but here spawner abundance is likely limited by overfishing. Our results suggest that multiple stressors may potentially affect eel reproductive success. More definitive studies are needed to assess whether health effects caused by these multiple stressors are additive, compensatory or synergistic.

Vg mRNA induction in an endangered fish species (Anguilla anguilla) from the Loire estuary (France).

PubMed

Blanchet-Letrouvé, Isabelle; Lafont, Anne-Gaëlle; Poirier, Laurence; Baloche, Sylvie; Zalouk-Vergnoux, Aurore; Dufour, Sylvie; Mouneyrac, Catherine

2013-11-01

Estuarine zones are extremely fragile due to increasing stress from anthropogenic activities. Among those, the Loire estuary (France) is potentially exposed to various contaminants including Endocrine Disruptors Compounds (EDCs) able to impact the reproduction physiology of fish. The European eel (Anguilla anguilla), endangered fish species, is apparently not relevant, in its yellow stage, to monitor the effects of endocrine disruption. Despite this weakly responsiveness, this study aimed to investigate whether European eel from the Loire estuary may still be the subject of estrogenic disruption quantifying the hepatic Vg gene expression according to gender and sexual stage. Vitellogenin (Vg) appears as a valuable biomarker of EDCs, as well as for exposure and effects. Quantitative real-time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (q RT PCR) was used in this study to amplify responses of hepatic Vg transcripts. European eels were sampled in May 2009 (N=57) and November 2010 (during the downstream migration, N=10) in two sites of the Loire estuary with different ecological conditions and contamination pressures (upstream: Varades; downstream: Nantes). Reproductive (gender, sexual maturity stage) and biometric parameters of collected eels were determined. A laboratory exposure of silver male to steroid hormones (Testosterone (T), 11-KetoTestosterone (11-KT), Estradiol (E2)) was conducted in parallel to validate the q RT PCR approach on hepatic Vg mRNA. Results demonstrated the responsiveness of exposed silver male eels, since hepatic mRNA Vg induction was observed in E2 treated males compared to control specimens. In the field, results of female silver eels reflected large inter-individual differences in the activation of hepatic Vg at silvering. However, while only female silver eels should express hepatic Vg mRNA, quantifiable levels were also detected in a proportion of 38% of the other individuals sampled, normally not inclined to express it, those being undifferentiated eels, yellow females, yellow and silver males. According to each sexual stage, no difference of expression was observed between eels from the two sampling sites. Histological results as well as low Vg mRNA levels detected do not permit a conclusion as to a potential effect of endocrine disruption. © 2013 Published by Elsevier Inc.

Influence of the North Atlantic oceanograghic and climatic parameters on the Spanish European Eel population recruitment: relationships in the past and for a future climate change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ribalaygua, Jaime; Pórtoles, Javier; Monjo, Robert; Díaz, Estíbaliz; Korta, María; Chust, Guillem

2016-04-01

The status of the European eel population is critical.; the annual recruitment of glass eel to European waters in 2015 is 1.2% of the 1960-1979 level in the 'North Sea' area, and 8.4% in the rest of Europe (ICES 2015) . There are a number of anthropogenic impacts potentially affecting eel population including commercial exploitation, habitat loss, dam and weir construction, hydropower, pumping stations and surface water abstractions. Furthermore, the first eel stages and larval migration and marine survival are heavily influenced by oceanic and climatic factors since the species breeds in the Sargasso Sea and migrates to the continental shelf of the Atlantic coast of Europe and North Africa. Therefore, the study of the relations between recruitment and oceanic conditions may allow to study the potential effect of climatic change on the future eel recruitment and therefore stock. In the present study, the relation between glass eel recruitment and oceanic and climatic factors has been studied. Historic glass eel catches data beginning in the 50s from two Mediterranean and two Atlantic estuaries have been used as a proxy of recruitment. The relation of catches with the main oceanographic and climatic factors identified in the literature was established using an ocean reanalysis, the Simple Ocean Data Assimilation (SODA) and determined which variables are significantly related to the number of catches. The analysis shows significant relationships between catches and oceanic (Surface Downward Stress, Sea Water Temperature and Sea Water Velocity) and atmospheric (NAO Index, AMO Index) variables. Subsequently, we applied the results of three climate models (GFDL-ESM2M, CanESM2 and CNRM-CM5), associated with the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) under two simulations of climate change (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5), both associated with the 5th Assessment Report of the IPCC, for possible future influences on the eel. This research was funded by the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Environment.

Effect of earthworm (Lumbricus rubellus) in feed formulation to improve fatty acids profile in eel (Anguilla bicolor) meat

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Farah, K.; Gunawan, I. R.; Putra, G. B.; Agustono; Lokapirnasari, W. P.; Lamid, M.; Masithah, E. D.; Nurhajati, T.; Rozi

2018-04-01

Eel requires unsaturated fatty acids of linolenic acid for growth. Which can be supplied from earthworms. In this study, addition of earthworm in formulation feed aimsed to improve the fatty acid profile eel meat. This research used experimental method and randomized complete design method with five treatments. Each treatment was repeated four times. The use of earthworms in feeding treatment formulation was done for 21 days with different level i.e: 0 % (P0), 25 % (P1), 50 % (P2), 75 % (P3) and 100 % (P4). The result showed that the addition of eartworm significantly influenced the omega 3 contents (EPA & DHA) of eel meat.

Sub-decadal turbidite frequency during the early Holocene: Eel Fan, offshore northern California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Paull, Charles K.; McGann, Mary L.; Sumner, Esther J; Barnes, Philip M; Lundsten, Eve M.; Anderson, Krystle; Gwiazda, Roberto; Edwards, Brian D.; Caress, David W

2014-01-01

Remotely operated and autonomous underwater vehicle technologies were used to image and sample exceptional deep sea outcrops where an ∼100-m-thick section of turbidite beds is exposed on the headwalls of two giant submarine scours on Eel submarine fan, offshore northern California (USA). These outcrops provide a rare opportunity to connect young deep-sea turbidites with their feeder system. 14C measurements reveal that from 12.8 ka to 7.9 ka, one turbidite was being emplaced on average every 7 yr. This emplacement rate is two to three orders of magnitude higher than observed for turbidites elsewhere along the Pacific margin of North America. The turbidites contain abundant wood and shallow-dwelling foraminifera, demonstrating an efficient connection between the Eel River source and the Eel Fan sink. Turbidite recurrence intervals diminish fivefold to ∼36 yr from 7.9 ka onward, reflecting sea-level rise and re-routing of Eel River sediments.

Identification of a testis-enriched heat shock protein and fourteen members of Hsp70 family in the swamp eel.

PubMed

He, Yan; Luo, Majing; Yi, Minhan; Sheng, Yue; Cheng, Yibin; Zhou, Rongjia; Cheng, Hanhua

2013-01-01

Gonad differentiation is one of the most important developmental events in vertebrates. Some heat shock proteins are associated with gonad development. Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) in the teleost fish and its roles in sex differentiation are poorly understood. We have identified a testis-enriched heat shock protein Hspa8b2 in the swamp eel using Western blot analysis and Mass Spectrometry (MS). Fourteen Hsp70 family genes were further identified in this species based on transcriptome information. The phylogenetic tree of Hsp70 family was constructed using the Maximum Likelihood method and their expression patterns in the swamp eel gonads were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). There are fourteen gene members in the Hsp70 family in the swamp eel genome. Hsp70 family, particularly Hspa8, has expanded in the species. One of the family members Hspa8b2 is predominantly expressed in testis of the swamp eel.

A review of the possible impacts of long-term oceanic and climate changes and fishing mortality on recruitment of anguillid eels of the Northern Hemisphere.

PubMed

Knights, B

2003-07-01

Possible causes of declines in recruitment of European, American and Japanese eels to continental waters are reviewed. Negative correlations between the Den Oever glass eel recruitment index (DOI) and the North Atlantic Oscillation Index since 1938 are discussed, together with older anecdotal evidence. Correlations are established between the DOI and sea surface temperature anomalies at 100-250 m between 1952 and 1995 in the Sargasso Sea/Sub-Tropical Gyre (STG) spawning area. It is hypothesised that, associated with global warming trends, STG warming inhibits spring thermocline mixing and nutrient circulation, with negative impacts on productivity and hence food for leptocephalus larvae. Concurrent gyre spin-up also affects major currents and slowing of oceanic migration has probably enhanced starvation and predation losses. Local factors, such as unfavourable wind-driven currents, can also affect recruitment of glass eels on continental shelves. In contrast, evidence is discussed that indicates fishing mortality and continental climate change appear to have had lesser impacts. Similar starvation-advection explanations for declines in Japanese eel recruitment are proposed. Predictions for the future are made and multidisciplinary and integrated monitoring and research are recommended for managing eel stocks and fisheries.

Improved Emergency Egress Lighting System for the ISS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Eaton, Leslie L.; Barr, Don A.

2005-01-01

Emergency lights provide illumination in corridors, stairwells, ramps, escalators, aisles, and exit passageways during power failures. Safety and visibility are critical during a power outage. If emergency lights fail to operate properly, the building occupants can become disoriented. Four documents in a collection discuss different topics relating to a proposed improved emergency egress lighting system (EELS) for the International Space Station (ISS). While the present EELS is designed around rows of green-light-emitting diodes, the proposed system contains strips of electroluminescent tape using different colors for each egress path. The proposed EELS can be powered by the same battery currently used by the present EELS, but would require an inverter because electroluminescent devices require AC. Electroluminescent devices also require significantly less current and, depending on the color, would emit 3 to 8 times the light of the present EELS. In addition, they could operate for up to 75 hours (versus .20 minutes for the present system). The first document contains a one-page summary of the proposal and an evaluation of technical merit. The second document summarizes the motivation for, and the design of, the proposed EELS. The third document addresses relevant aspects of the measurement of spectral sensitivity and the psychophysics of perception of light. The fourth document presents additional background information and technical specifications for the electroluminescent tapes.

Structure, properties and enhanced expression of galactose-binding C-type lectins in mucous cells of gills from freshwater Japanese eels (Anguilla japonica).

PubMed Central

Mistry, A C; Honda, S; Hirose, S

2001-01-01

Using a Japanese-eel (Anguilla japonica) gill cDNA subtraction library, two novel beta-d-galactose-binding lectins were identified that belong to group VII of the animal C-type lectin family. The eel C-type lectins, termed eCL-1 and eCL-2, are simple lectins composed of 163 amino acid residues, including a 22-residue signal peptide for secretion and a single carbohydrate-recognition domain (CRD) of approximately 130 residues typical of C-type lectins. The galactose specificity of the CRD was suggested by the presence of a QPD motif and confirmed by a competitive binding assay. Using Ruthenium Red staining, the lectins were shown to bind Ca(2+) ions. SDS/PAGE showed that native eCL-1 and eCL-2 have an SDS-resistant octameric structure (a tetramer of disulphide-linked dimers). Northern and Western blot analyses demonstrated high-level expression of eCL-1 and eCL-2 mRNAs and their protein products in gills from freshwater eels, which decreased markedly when the eels were transferred from freshwater to seawater. Immunohistochemistry showed that the eel lectins are localized in the exocrine mucous cells of the gill. PMID:11695997

Sympatric Spawning but Allopatric Distribution of Anguilla japonica and Anguilla marmorata : Temperature- and Oceanic Current-Dependent Sieving

PubMed Central

Han, Yu-San; Yambot, Apolinario V.; Zhang, Heng; Hung, Chia-Ling

2012-01-01

Anguilla japonica and Anguilla marmorata share overlapping spawning sites, similar drifting routes, and comparable larval durations. However, they exhibit allopatric geographical distributions in East Asia. To clarify this ecological discrepancy, glass eels from estuaries in Taiwan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and China were collected monthly, and the survival rate of A. marmorata under varying water salinities and temperatures was examined. The composition ratio of these 2 eel species showed a significant latitude cline, matching the 24°C sea surface temperature isotherm in winter. Both species had opposing temperature preferences for recruitment. A. marmorata prefer high water temperatures and die at low water temperatures. In contrast, A. japonica can endure low water temperatures, but their recruitment is inhibited by high water temperatures. Thus, A. japonica glass eels, which mainly spawn in summer, are preferably recruited to Taiwan, China, Korea, and Japan by the Kuroshio and its branch waters in winter. Meanwhile, A. marmorata glass eels, which spawn throughout the year, are mostly screened out in East Asia in areas with low-temperature coastal waters in winter. During summer, the strong northward currents from the South China Sea and Changjiang River discharge markedly block the Kuroshio invasion and thus restrict the approach of A. marmorata glass eels to the coasts of China and Korea. The differences in the preferences of the recruitment temperature for glass eels combined with the availability of oceanic currents shape the real geographic distribution of Anguilla japonica and Anguilla marmorata, making them “temperate” and “tropical” eels, respectively. PMID:22675481

Evolution of the locomotory system in eels (Teleostei: Elopomorpha).

PubMed

Pfaff, Cathrin; Zorzin, Roberto; Kriwet, Jürgen

2016-08-11

Living anguilliform eels represent a distinct clade of elongated teleostean fishes inhabiting a wide range of habitats. Locomotion of these fishes is highly influenced by the elongated body shape, the anatomy of the vertebral column, and the corresponding soft tissues represented by the musculotendinous system. Up to now, the evolution of axial elongation in eels has been inferred from living taxa only, whereas the reconstruction of evolutionary patterns and functional ecology in extinct eels still is scarce. Rare but excellently preserved fossil eels from the Late Cretaceous and Cenozoic were investigated here to gain a better understanding of locomotory system evolution in anguilliforms and, consequently, their habitat occupations in deep time. The number of vertebrae in correlation with the body length separates extinct and extant anguilliforms. Even if the phylogenetic signal cannot entirely be excluded, the analyses performed here reveal a continuous shortening of the vertebral column with a simultaneous increase in vertebral numbers in conjunction with short lateral tendons throughout the order. These anatomical changes contradict previous hypotheses based on extant eels solely. The body curvatures of extant anguilliforms are highly flexible and can be clearly distinguished from extinct species. Anatomical changes of the vertebral column and musculotendinous system through time and between extinct and extant anguilliforms correlate with changes of the body plan and swimming performance and reveal significant shifts in habitat adaptation and thus behaviour. Evolutionary changes in the skeletal system of eels established here also imply that environmental shifts were triggered by abiotic rather than biotic factors (e.g., K/P boundary mass extinction event).

A ddRAD-based genetic map and its integration with the genome assembly of Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) provides insights into genome evolution after the teleost-specific genome duplication

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing technology have enabled cost-effective sequencing of whole or partial genomes, permitting the discovery and characterization of molecular polymorphisms. Double-digest restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD-seq) is a powerful and inexpensive approach to developing numerous single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and constructing a high-density genetic map. To enrich genomic resources for Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica), we constructed a ddRAD-based genetic map using an Ion Torrent Personal Genome Machine and anchored scaffolds of the current genome assembly to 19 linkage groups of the Japanese eel. Furthermore, we compared the Japanese eel genome with genomes of model fishes to infer the history of genome evolution after the teleost-specific genome duplication. Results We generated the ddRAD-based linkage map of the Japanese eel, where the maps for female and male spanned 1748.8 cM and 1294.5 cM, respectively, and were arranged into 19 linkage groups. A total of 2,672 SNP markers and 115 Simple Sequence Repeat markers provide anchor points to 1,252 scaffolds covering 151 Mb (13%) of the current genome assembly of the Japanese eel. Comparisons among the Japanese eel, medaka, zebrafish and spotted gar genomes showed highly conserved synteny among teleosts and revealed part of the eight major chromosomal rearrangement events that occurred soon after the teleost-specific genome duplication. Conclusions The ddRAD-seq approach combined with the Ion Torrent Personal Genome Machine sequencing allowed us to conduct efficient and flexible SNP genotyping. The integration of the genetic map and the assembled sequence provides a valuable resource for fine mapping and positional cloning of quantitative trait loci associated with economically important traits and for investigating comparative genomics of the Japanese eel. PMID:24669946

A ddRAD-based genetic map and its integration with the genome assembly of Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) provides insights into genome evolution after the teleost-specific genome duplication.

PubMed

Kai, Wataru; Nomura, Kazuharu; Fujiwara, Atushi; Nakamura, Yoji; Yasuike, Motoshige; Ojima, Nobuhiko; Masaoka, Tetsuji; Ozaki, Akiyuki; Kazeto, Yukinori; Gen, Koichiro; Nagao, Jiro; Tanaka, Hideki; Kobayashi, Takanori; Ototake, Mitsuru

2014-03-26

Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing technology have enabled cost-effective sequencing of whole or partial genomes, permitting the discovery and characterization of molecular polymorphisms. Double-digest restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD-seq) is a powerful and inexpensive approach to developing numerous single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and constructing a high-density genetic map. To enrich genomic resources for Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica), we constructed a ddRAD-based genetic map using an Ion Torrent Personal Genome Machine and anchored scaffolds of the current genome assembly to 19 linkage groups of the Japanese eel. Furthermore, we compared the Japanese eel genome with genomes of model fishes to infer the history of genome evolution after the teleost-specific genome duplication. We generated the ddRAD-based linkage map of the Japanese eel, where the maps for female and male spanned 1748.8 cM and 1294.5 cM, respectively, and were arranged into 19 linkage groups. A total of 2,672 SNP markers and 115 Simple Sequence Repeat markers provide anchor points to 1,252 scaffolds covering 151 Mb (13%) of the current genome assembly of the Japanese eel. Comparisons among the Japanese eel, medaka, zebrafish and spotted gar genomes showed highly conserved synteny among teleosts and revealed part of the eight major chromosomal rearrangement events that occurred soon after the teleost-specific genome duplication. The ddRAD-seq approach combined with the Ion Torrent Personal Genome Machine sequencing allowed us to conduct efficient and flexible SNP genotyping. The integration of the genetic map and the assembled sequence provides a valuable resource for fine mapping and positional cloning of quantitative trait loci associated with economically important traits and for investigating comparative genomics of the Japanese eel.

Spawning Sites of the Japanese Eel in Relation to Oceanographic Structure and the West Mariana Ridge

PubMed Central

Aoyama, Jun; Watanabe, Shun; Miller, Michael J.; Mochioka, Noritaka; Otake, Tsuguo; Yoshinaga, Tatsuki; Tsukamoto, Katsumi

2014-01-01

The Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica, spawns within the North Equatorial Current that bifurcates into both northward and southward flows in its westward region, so its spawning location and larval transport dynamics seem important for understanding fluctuations in its recruitment to East Asia. Intensive research efforts determined that Japanese eels spawn along the western side of the West Mariana Ridge during new moon periods, where all oceanic life history stages have been collected, including eggs and spawning adults. However, how the eels decide where to form spawning aggregations is unknown because spawning appears to have occurred at various latitudes. A salinity front formed from tropical rainfall was hypothesized to determine the latitude of its spawning locations, but an exact spawning site was only found once by collecting eggs in May 2009. This study reports on the collections of Japanese eel eggs and preleptocephali during three new moon periods in June 2011 and May and June 2012 at locations indicating that the distribution of lower salinity surface water or salinity fronts influence the latitude of spawning sites along the ridge. A distinct salinity front may concentrate spawning south of the front on the western side of the seamount ridge. It was also suggested that eels may spawn at various latitudes within low-salinity water when the salinity fronts appeared unclear. Eel eggs were distributed within the 150–180 m layer near the top of the thermocline, indicating shallow spawning depths. Using these landmarks for latitude (salinity front), longitude (seamount ridge), and depth (top of the thermocline) to guide the formation of spawning aggregations could facilitate finding mates and help synchronize their spawning. PMID:24551155

Larval Gnathostoma spinigerum Detected in Asian Swamp Eels, Monopterus albus, Purchased from a Local Market in Yangon, Myanmar.

PubMed

Chai, Jong-Yil; Sohn, Woon-Mok; Na, Byoung-Kuk; Park, Jong-Bok; Jeoung, Hoo-Gn; Hoang, Eui-Hyug; Htoon, Thi Thi; Tin, Htay Htay

2015-10-01

The present study was performed to determine the infection status of swamp eels with Gnathostoma sp. larvae in Myanmar. We purchased total 37 Asian swamp eels, Monopterus albus, from a local market in Yangon in June and December 2013 and 2014. All collected eels were transferred with ice to our laboratory and each of them was examined by the artificial digestion technique. A total of 401 larval gnathostomes (1-96 larvae/eel) were detected in 33 (89.2%) swamp eels. Most of the larvae (n=383; 95.5%) were found in the muscle. The remaining 18 larvae were detected in the viscera. The advanced third-stage larvae (AdL3) were 2.3-4.4 mm long and 0.25-0.425 mm wide. The characteristic head bulb (0.093 × 0.221 mm in average size) with 4 rows of hooklets, muscular long esophagus (1.025 mm), and 2 pairs of cervical sacs (0.574 mm) were observed by light microscopy. The average number of hooklets in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th rows was 41, 45, 48, and 51, respectively. As scanning electron microscopic findings, the characteristic 4-5 rows of hooklets on the head bulb, a cervical papilla, tegumental spines regularly arranged in the transverse striations, and an anus were well observed. Based on these morphological characters, they were identified as the AdL3 of Gnathostoma spinigerum. By the present study, it has been confirmed for the first time that Asian swamp eels, M. albus, from Yangon, Myanmar are heavily infected with G. spinigerum larvae.

Larval Gnathostoma spinigerum Detected in Asian Swamp Eels, Monopterus albus, Purchased from a Local Market in Yangon, Myanmar

PubMed Central

Chai, Jong-Yil; Sohn, Woon-Mok; Na, Byoung-Kuk; Park, Jong-Bok; Jeoung, Hoo-Gn; Hoang, Eui-Hyug; Htoon, Thi Thi; Tin, Htay Htay

2015-01-01

The present study was performed to determine the infection status of swamp eels with Gnathostoma sp. larvae in Myanmar. We purchased total 37 Asian swamp eels, Monopterus albus, from a local market in Yangon in June and December 2013 and 2014. All collected eels were transferred with ice to our laboratory and each of them was examined by the artificial digestion technique. A total of 401 larval gnathostomes (1-96 larvae/eel) were detected in 33 (89.2%) swamp eels. Most of the larvae (n=383; 95.5%) were found in the muscle. The remaining 18 larvae were detected in the viscera. The advanced third-stage larvae (AdL3) were 2.3-4.4 mm long and 0.25-0.425 mm wide. The characteristic head bulb (0.093 × 0.221 mm in average size) with 4 rows of hooklets, muscular long esophagus (1.025 mm), and 2 pairs of cervical sacs (0.574 mm) were observed by light microscopy. The average number of hooklets in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th rows was 41, 45, 48, and 51, respectively. As scanning electron microscopic findings, the characteristic 4-5 rows of hooklets on the head bulb, a cervical papilla, tegumental spines regularly arranged in the transverse striations, and an anus were well observed. Based on these morphological characters, they were identified as the AdL3 of Gnathostoma spinigerum. By the present study, it has been confirmed for the first time that Asian swamp eels, M. albus, from Yangon, Myanmar are heavily infected with G. spinigerum larvae. PMID:26537042

Spawning sites of the Japanese eel in relation to oceanographic structure and the West Mariana Ridge.

PubMed

Aoyama, Jun; Watanabe, Shun; Miller, Michael J; Mochioka, Noritaka; Otake, Tsuguo; Yoshinaga, Tatsuki; Tsukamoto, Katsumi

2014-01-01

The Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica, spawns within the North Equatorial Current that bifurcates into both northward and southward flows in its westward region, so its spawning location and larval transport dynamics seem important for understanding fluctuations in its recruitment to East Asia. Intensive research efforts determined that Japanese eels spawn along the western side of the West Mariana Ridge during new moon periods, where all oceanic life history stages have been collected, including eggs and spawning adults. However, how the eels decide where to form spawning aggregations is unknown because spawning appears to have occurred at various latitudes. A salinity front formed from tropical rainfall was hypothesized to determine the latitude of its spawning locations, but an exact spawning site was only found once by collecting eggs in May 2009. This study reports on the collections of Japanese eel eggs and preleptocephali during three new moon periods in June 2011 and May and June 2012 at locations indicating that the distribution of lower salinity surface water or salinity fronts influence the latitude of spawning sites along the ridge. A distinct salinity front may concentrate spawning south of the front on the western side of the seamount ridge. It was also suggested that eels may spawn at various latitudes within low-salinity water when the salinity fronts appeared unclear. Eel eggs were distributed within the 150-180 m layer near the top of the thermocline, indicating shallow spawning depths. Using these landmarks for latitude (salinity front), longitude (seamount ridge), and depth (top of the thermocline) to guide the formation of spawning aggregations could facilitate finding mates and help synchronize their spawning.

Differential regulation of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone expression during ovarian development and under sexual steroid feedback in the European eel.

PubMed

Schmitz, Monika; Aroua, Salima; Vidal, Bernadette; Le Belle, Nadine; Elie, Pierre; Dufour, Sylvie

2005-01-01

Pituitary gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) are, in teleosts as in mammals, under the control of hypothalamic factors and steroid feedbacks. In teleosts, feedback regulations largely vary depending on species and physiological stage. In the present study the regulation of FSH and LH expression was investigated in the European eel, a fish of biological and phylogenetical interest as a representative of an early group of teleosts. The eel FSHbeta subunit was cloned, sequenced and together with earlier isolated eel LHbeta and glycoprotein hormone alpha (GPalpha) subunits used to study the differential regulation of LH and FSH. In situ hybridization indicated that FSHbeta and LHbeta are expressed by separate cells of the proximal pars distalis of the adenohypophysis, differently from the situation in mammals. The profiles of LHbeta and FSHbeta subunit expression were compared during experimental ovarian maturation, using dot-blot assays. Expression levels for LHbeta and GPalpha increased throughout ovarian development with a positive correlation between these two subunits. Conversely, FSHbeta mRNA levels decreased. To understand the role of sex steroids in these opposite variations, immature eels were treated with estradiol (E2)and testosterone (T), both steroids being produced in eel ovaries during gonadal development. E2 treatment induced increases in both LHbeta and GPalpha mRNA levels, without any significant effect on FSHbeta. In contrast, T treatment induced a decrease in FSHbeta mRNA levels, without any significant effect on the other subunits. These data demonstrate that steroids exert a differential feedback on eel gonadotropin expression, with an E2-specific positive feedback on LH and a T-specific negative feedback on FSH, leading to an opposite regulation of LH and FSH during ovarian development. Copyright 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel

A novel recombinant bivalent outer membrane protein of Vibrio vulnificus and Aeromonas hydrophila as a vaccine antigen of American eel (Anguilla rostrata).

PubMed

SongLin, Guo; PanPan, Lu; JianJun, Feng; JinPing, Zhao; Peng, Lin; LiHua, Duan

2015-04-01

The immogenicity of a novel vaccine antigen was evaluated after immunized American eels (Anguilla rostrata) with a recombinant bivalent expressed outer membrane protein (OMP) of Vibrio vulnificus and Aeromonas hydrophila. Three groups of eels were intraperitoneal (i.p) injected with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS group), formaline-killed-whole-cell (FKC) of A. hydrophila and V. vulnificus (FKC group) or the bivalent OMP (OMP group). On 14, 21, 28 and 42 days post-vaccination respectively, proliferation of the whole blood cells, titers of specific antibody and lysozyme activities of experimental eels were detected. On 28 day post-vaccination, eels from three groups were challenged by i.p injection of live A. hydrophila or V. vulnificus. The results showed that, compared with the PBS group, proliferation of whole blood cells in OMP group was significant enhanced on 28 days, and the serum titers of anti-A.hydrophila and anti-V. vulnificus antibody in eels of FKC and OMP group were significant increased on 14, 21 and 28d. Lysozyme Activities in serum, skin mucus, liver and kidney were significant changed between the three groups. Relative Percent Survival (RPS) after challenged A. hydrophila in KFC vs. PBS group and OMP vs. PBS group were 62.5% and 50% respectively, and the RPS challenged V. vulnificus in FKC and OMP vs. PBS group were 37.5% and 50% respectively. These results suggest that American eels immunized with the bivalent OMP would positively affect specific as well as non-specific immune parameters and protect against infection by the two pathogens in fresh water farming. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Inter and intra-estuary variability in ingress, condition and settlement of the American eel Anguilla rostrata: implications for estimating and understanding recruitment.

PubMed

Sullivan, M C; Wuenschel, M J; Able, K W

2009-06-01

The objective of this study was to quantify spatial and temporal variability of anguillid glass eel ingress within and between adjacent watersheds in order to help illuminate the mechanisms moderating annual recruitment. Because single fixed locations are often used to assess annual recruitment, the intra-annual dynamics of ingress across multiple sites often remains unresolved. To address this question, plankton nets and eel collectors were deployed weekly to synoptically quantify early stage Anguilla rostrata abundance at 12 sites across two New Jersey estuaries over an ingress season. Numbers of early-stage glass eels collected at the inlet mouths were moderately variable within and between estuaries over time and showed evidence for weak lunar phase and water temperature correlations. The relative condition of glass eels, although highly variable, declined significantly over the ingress season and indicated a tendency for lower condition A. rostrata to colonize sites in the lower estuary. Accumulations of glass eels and early-stage elvers retrieved from collectors (one to >1500 A. rostrata per collector) at lower estuary sites were highly variable over time, producing only weak correlations between estuaries. By way of contrast, development into late-stage elvers, coupled with the large-scale colonization of up-river sites, was highly synchronized between and within estuaries and contingent on water temperatures reaching c. 10-12 degrees C. Averaged over the ingress season, abundance estimates were remarkably consistent between paired sites across estuaries, indicating a low degree of interestuary variability. Within an estuary, however, abundance estimates varied considerably depending on location. These results and methodology have important implications for the planning and interpretation of early-stage anguillid eel surveys as well as the understanding of the dynamic nature of ingress and the spatial scales over which recruitment varies.

Draft genome of the American Eel (Anguilla rostrata).

PubMed

Pavey, Scott A; Laporte, Martin; Normandeau, Eric; Gaudin, Jérémy; Letourneau, Louis; Boisvert, Sébastien; Corbeil, Jacques; Audet, Céline; Bernatchez, Louis

2017-07-01

Freshwater eels (Anguilla sp.) have large economic, cultural, ecological and aesthetic importance worldwide, but they suffered more than 90% decline in global stocks over the past few decades. Proper genetic resources, such as sequenced, assembled and annotated genomes, are essential to help plan sustainable recoveries by identifying physiological, biochemical and genetic mechanisms that caused the declines or that may lead to recoveries. Here, we present the first sequenced genome of the American eel. This genome contained 305 043 contigs (N50 = 7397) and 79 209 scaffolds (N50 = 86 641) for a total size of 1.41 Gb, which is in the middle of the range of previous estimations for this species. In addition, protein-coding regions, including introns and flanking regions, are very well represented in the genome, as 95.2% of the 458 core eukaryotic genes and 98.8% of the 248 ultra-conserved subset were represented in the assembly and a total of 26 564 genes were annotated for future functional genomics studies. We performed a candidate gene analysis to compare three genes among all three freshwater eel species and, congruent with the phylogenetic relationships, Japanese eel (A. japanica) exhibited the most divergence. Overall, the sequenced genome presented in this study is a crucial addition to the presently available genetic tools to help guide future conservation efforts of freshwater eels. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Introgressive hybridization and latitudinal admixture clines in North Atlantic eels

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Hybridization, the interbreeding of diagnosably divergent species, is a major focus in evolutionary studies. Eels, both from North America and Europe migrate through the Atlantic to mate in a vast, overlapping area in the Sargasso Sea. Due to the lack of direct observation, it is unknown how these species remain reproductively isolated. The detection of inter-species hybrids in Iceland suggests on-going gene flow, but few studies to date have addressed the influence of introgression on genetic differentiation in North Atlantic eels. Results Here, we show that while mitochondrial lineages remain completely distinct on both sides of the Atlantic, limited hybridization is detectable with nuclear DNA markers. The nuclear hybridization signal peaks in the northern areas and decreases towards the southern range limits on both continents according to Bayesian assignment analyses. By simulating increasing proportions of both F1 hybrids and admixed individuals from the southern to the northern-most locations, we were able to generate highly significant isolation-by-distance patterns in both cases, reminiscent of previously published data for the European eel. Finally, fitting an isolation-with-migration model to our data supports the hypothesis of recent asymmetric introgression and refutes the alternative hypothesis of ancient polymorphism. Conclusions Fluctuating degrees of introgressive hybridization between Atlantic eel species are sufficient to explain temporally varying correlations of geographic and genetic distances reported for populations of the European eel. PMID:24674242

Long-term stability in the richness and structure of helminth communities in eels, Anguilla anguilla, in Lough Derg, River Shannon, Ireland.

PubMed

Kennedy, C R; Moriarty, C

2002-12-01

A data set on intestinal helminth parasites was collected in the course of an 18 year investigation into the biology of eels in Meelick Bay, Lough Derg, River Shannon. This was used to test two hypotheses relating to the composition and structure of intestinal helminth communities, namely that eels in large rivers do not harbour richer and more diverse communities than those in small rivers but that community composition and structure are more stable over time than in small rivers. The helminth community was species poor, with only six species comprising the component community and a maximum infracommunity richness of three species. The community was overwhelmingly dominated by the acanthocephalan Acanthocephalus lucii, reflecting the importance of its intermediate host Asellus aquaticus in the eels' diet. The remaining helminth species contributed to species richness but made very little contribution to community diversity. Population levels of Acanthocephalus lucii fell and remained low between 1992 and 2000, probably reflecting increased movement of eels from other parts of the lough into Meelick Bay. Diversity values were low, but similar to those reported from other rivers in Britain and Europe. The results provided support for both hypotheses and indicated that in respect of richness, diversity and dominance, the helminth communities of eels in the River Shannon were typical of, and comparable to, those of other large rivers throughout Europe.

XPS and EELS characterization of Mn2SiO4, MnSiO3 and MnAl2O4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grosvenor, A. P.; Bellhouse, E. M.; Korinek, A.; Bugnet, M.; McDermid, J. R.

2016-08-01

X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) are strong candidate techniques for characterizing steel surfaces and substrate-coating interfaces when investigating the selective oxidation and reactive wetting of advanced high strength steels (AHSS) during the continuous galvanizing process. However, unambiguous identification of ternary oxides such as Mn2SiO4, MnSiO3, and MnAl2O4 by XPS or EELS, which can play a significant role in substrate reactive wetting, is difficult due to the lack of fully characterized standards in the literature. To resolve this issue, samples of Mn2SiO4, MnSiO3 and MnAl2O4 were synthesized and characterized by XPS and EELS. The unique features of the XPS and EELS spectra for the Mn2SiO4, MnSiO3 and MnAl2O4 standards were successfully derived, thereby allowing investigators to fully differentiate and identify these oxides at the surface and subsurface of Mn, Si and Al alloyed AHSS using these techniques.

Addressing the impact of mercury estuarine contamination in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla L., 1758) - An early diagnosis in glass eel stage based on erythrocytic nuclear morphology.

PubMed

Castro, D; Mieiro, C L; Coelho, J P; Guilherme, S; Marques, A; Santos, M A; Duarte, A C; Pereira, E; Pacheco, M

2018-02-01

The decline of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla L., 1758) population throughout Europe has been partially attributed to pollution. As glass eel estuarine migration may represent a considerable threat, the impact of mercury (Hg) contamination at this stage was evaluated through an in situ experiment (7days). Total Hg (tHg) bioaccumulation was evaluated concomitantly with erythrocytic nuclear morphology alterations: erythrocytic nuclear abnormalities assay (ENA), frequency of immature erythrocytes (IE) and the erythrocytic maturity index (EMI). The ENA results suggested a genotoxic pressure at the most contaminated sites, in line with the tHg increase. The EMI data, together with IE frequency, showed that fish exposed to high levels of Hg exhibited alterations of haematological dynamics, translated into an erythropoiesis increment. Despite the presence of these compensatory mechanisms, the present findings suggest a harmful impact of Hg on genome integrity at this early development stage, potentially affecting eels' condition and ultimately the population sustainability. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

An evaluation of silver-stage American Eel conspecific chemical cueing during outmigration

USGS Publications Warehouse

Schmucker, Andrew K.; Johnson, Nicholas S.; Galbraith, Heather S.; Li, Weiming

2017-01-01

American Eel Anguilla rostrata abundance has declined in recent decades, in part because sexually maturing, silver-stage adults, outmigrating from freshwater to oceanic spawning grounds, encounter migratory blockades or perish when passing through active hydroelectric turbines. To help improve downstream passage effectiveness and increase survival rates, the role of silver-stage American Eel conspecific chemical cueing during outmigration was investigated using a new type of bioassay. Inside a laboratory flume, downstream-swimming eels were exposed to both live (putative attractant) and dead (putative repellent) conspecific washings to determine whether their trajectory of downstream movement, level of activity, or time spent inside targeted areas of the arena changed after exposure. Silver eels were not attracted to or repulsed by either odor, as none of five scoring metrics indicated a behavioral response. Results did not support the hypothesis that conspecific chemical cueing is a mechanism for downstream migration coordination or danger avoidance; however responses may not have been readily apparent in this type of assay. Fisheries managers may opt to focus future research on more feasible restoration efforts using alternate experimental designs to remedy this ecological issue.

Effect of TBT and PAHs on CYP1A, AhR and Vitellogenin Gene Expression in the Japanese Eel, Anguilla japonica.

PubMed

Choi, Min Seop; Kwon, Se Ryun; Choi, Seong Hee; Kwon, Hyuk Chu

2012-12-01

Gene expressions of cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A), aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and vitellogenin (Vg) by endocrine disruptors, benzo[α]pyrene (B[a]P) and tributyltin (TBT) were examined in cultured eel hepatocytes which were isolated from eels treated previously with B[a]P (10 mg/kg) or estradiol-17β (20 mg/kg) in vivo, and the relationship between CYP1A, AhR and Vg genes were studied. When the cultured eel hepatocytes were treated with B[a]P (10(-6)-10(-5) M) the gene expressions of CYP1A and AhR were enhanced in a concentration-dependent manner. However, when treated with TBT (10(-9)-10(-5) M) the gene expressions of CYP1A and AhR were suppressed at high concentrations (10(-6)-10(-5) M), while having no effects at low concentrations (10(-9)-10(-7) M). Gene expression of Vg was also suppressed by TBT in a concentration-dependent manner in cultured eel hepatocytes which was previously treated in vivo with estradiol-17β.

Effect of TBT and PAHs on CYP1A, AhR and Vitellogenin Gene Expression in the Japanese Eel, Anguilla japonica

PubMed Central

Choi, Min Seop; Kwon, Se Ryun; Choi, Seong Hee; Kwon, Hyuk Chu

2012-01-01

Gene expressions of cytochrome P4501A (CYP1A), aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and vitellogenin (Vg) by endocrine disruptors, benzo[α]pyrene (B[a]P) and tributyltin (TBT) were examined in cultured eel hepatocytes which were isolated from eels treated previously with B[a]P (10 mg/kg) or estradiol-17β (20 mg/kg) in vivo, and the relationship between CYP1A, AhR and Vg genes were studied. When the cultured eel hepatocytes were treated with B[a]P (10-6-10-5 M) the gene expressions of CYP1A and AhR were enhanced in a concentration-dependent manner. However, when treated with TBT (10-9-10-5 M) the gene expressions of CYP1A and AhR were suppressed at high concentrations (10-6-10-5 M), while having no effects at low concentrations (10-9-10-7 M). Gene expression of Vg was also suppressed by TBT in a concentration-dependent manner in cultured eel hepatocytes which was previously treated in vivo with estradiol-17β. PMID:25949102

Anguilliform larvae collected off North Carolina

USGS Publications Warehouse

Ross, Steve W.; Casazza, T.L.; Quattrini, A.M.; Sulak, K.J.

2007-01-01

The distinctive larval stage of eels (leptocephalus) facilitates dispersal through prolonged life in the open ocean. Leptocephali are abundant and diverse off North Carolina, yet data on distributions and biology are lacking. The water column (from surface to 1,293 m) was sampled in or near the Gulf Stream off Cape Hatteras, Cape Lookout, and Cape Fear, North Carolina during summer through fall of 1999-2005, and leptocephali were collected by neuston net, plankton net, Tucker trawl, and dip net. Additional samples were collected nearly monthly from a transect across southern Onslow Bay, North Carolina (from surface to 91 m) from April 2000 to December 2001 by bongo and neuston nets, Methot frame trawl, and Tucker trawl. Overall, 584 tows were completed, and 224 of these yielded larval eels. The 1,295 eel leptocephali collected (combining all methods and areas) represented at least 63 species (nine families). Thirteen species were not known previously from the area. Dominant families for all areas were Congridae (44% of individuals, 11 species), Ophichthidae (30% of individuals, 27 species), and Muraenidae (22% of individuals, ten species). Nine taxa accounted for 70% of the overall leptocephalus catches (in order of decreasing abundance): Paraconger caudilimbatus (Poey), Gymnothorax ocellatus Agassiz complex, Ariosoma balearicum (Delaroche), Ophichthus gomesii (Castelnau), Callechelys muraena Jordan and Evermann, Letharchus aliculatus McCosker, Rhynchoconger flavus (Goode and Bean), Ophichthus cruentifer (Goode and Bean), Rhynchoconger gracilior (Ginsburg). The top three species represented 52% of the total eel larvae collected. Most leptocephali were collected at night (79%) and at depths > 45 m. Eighty percent of the eels collected in discrete depth Tucker trawls at night ranged from mean depths of 59-353 m. A substantial number (38% of discrete depth sample total) of larval eels were also collected at the surface (neuston net) at night. Daytime leptocephalus distributions were less clear partly due to low catches and lower Tucker trawl sampling effort. While net avoidance may account for some of the low daytime catches, an alternative explanation is that many species of larval eels occur during the day at depths > 350 m. Larvae of 21 taxa of typically shallow water eels were collected at depths > 350 m, but additional discrete depth diel sampling is needed to resolve leptocephalus vertical distributions. The North Carolina adult eel fauna (estuary to at least 2,000 m) consists of 51 species, 41% of which were represented in these collections. Many species of leptocephali collected are not yet known to have juveniles or adults established in the South Atlantic Bight or north of Cape Hatteras. Despite Gulf Stream transport and a prolonged larval stage, many of these eel leptocephali may not contribute to their respective populations. ?? 2006 Springer-Verlag.

PAH Metabolites in Bile of European Eel (Anguilla anguilla) from Morocco.

PubMed

Wariaghli, Fatima; Kammann, Ulrike; Hanel, Reinhold; Yahyaoui, Ahmed

2015-12-01

Environmental pollution of fish with organic contaminants is a topic of rising attention in Morocco. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) are prominent organic contaminants which are rapidly metabolized in fish. Their metabolites are accumulated in the bile fluid and can be used to assess PAH exposure. The two PAH metabolites 1-hydroxypyrene and 1-hydroxyphenanthrene were quantified in European eels (Anguilla anguilla) from two Moroccan river systems by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Mean values ranged from 52 to 210 ng/mL 1-hydroxypyrene and from 61 to 73 ng/mL 1-hydroxyphenanthrene. The overall concentrations of PAH metabolites in eel from Morocco appeared moderate compared to eel from European rivers and coastal sites. The present study provides first information on concentrations of PAH metabolites in fish from Morocco.

Enhancement and management of eel fisheries affected by hydroelectric dams in New Zealand

USGS Publications Warehouse

Boubee, J.; Chisnall, B.; Watene, E.; Williams, E.; Roper, D.; Haro, A.

2003-01-01

Two freshwater anguillid eel species, Anguilla australis and A. dieffenbachia, form the basis of important traditional, recreational, and commercial fisheries in New Zealand. These fisheries have been affected by the damming of many of the major waterways for hydroelectric generation. To create fisheries in reservoirs that would be otherwise inaccessible, elvers have been transferred from the base of dams into habitats upstream. Operations in three catchments: the Patea River (Lake Rotorangi), Waikato River (eight reservoirs notably the two lowermost, lakes Karapiro and Arapuni), and Rangitaiki River (lakes Matahina and Aniwhenua) are discussed. In all reservoirs, the transfers have successfully established fishable populations within six years of the first transfers and, in Lake Arapuni eels have reached the marketable size of 220 g in less than four years. In comparison, it typically takes from 13 to 17 years before eel populations are fishable in the lower Waikato River where direct access to the sea is available. Telemetry and monitoring at the screens and tailraces of several power stations have been used to determine migration timing, triggers, and pathways of mature eels. Successful downstream transfer of mature migrating adults has been achieved by spillway opening and netting in headraces during rain events in autumn, but means of preventing eels from impinging and entraining at the intakes are still required. An integrated, catchment-wide management system will be required to ensure sustainability of the fisheries. ?? Copyright by the American Fisheries Society 2003.

Genetic diversity of infective larvae of Gnathostoma spinigerum (Nematoda: Gnathostomatidae) in freshwater swamp eels from Thailand.

PubMed

Eamsobhana, P; Wanachiwanawin, D; Roongruangchai, K; Song, S L; Yong, H S

2017-11-01

Human gnathostomiasis is a food-borne zoonosis caused by a tissue nematode of the genus Gnathostoma. The disease is highly endemic in Asia, including Thailand. The freshwater swamp eel (Monopterus albus), the second intermediate host of the gnathostome nematode, has an important role in transmitting the infection in Thailand. Surveys on the infective larvae of Gnathostoma spinigerum based on morphological features in freshwater swamp eels have been performed continuously and reported in Thailand. However, there is still limited molecular data on intra-species variations of the parasite. In this study, a total of 19 third-stage larvae of morphologically identified G. spinigerum were collected from 437 liver samples of freshwater swamp eels purchased from a large wholesale market in Bangkok, Thailand. Molecular characterization based on mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences was performed to elucidate their genetic variations and phylogenetic relationship. Among the 19 infective larvae recovered from these eels, 16 were sequenced successfully. Phylogenetic analyses inferred from the partial COI gene showed the presence of three distinct COI haplotypes. Our findings confirm the presence of G. spinigerum as the main species in Thailand.

Low-dose electron energy-loss spectroscopy using electron counting direct detectors.

PubMed

Maigné, Alan; Wolf, Matthias

2018-03-01

Since the development of parallel electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), charge-coupled devices (CCDs) have been the default detectors for EELS. With the recent development of electron-counting direct-detection cameras, micrographs can be acquired under very low electron doses at significantly improved signal-to-noise ratio. In spectroscopy, in particular in combination with a monochromator, the signal can be extremely weak and the detection limit is principally defined by noise introduced by the detector. Here we report the use of an electron-counting direct-detection camera for EEL spectroscopy. We studied the oxygen K edge of amorphous ice and obtained a signal noise ratio up to 10 times higher than with a conventional CCD.We report the application of electron counting to record time-resolved EEL spectra of a biological protein embedded in amorphous ice, revealing chemical changes observed in situ while exposed by the electron beam. A change in the fine structure of nitrogen K and the carbon K edges were recorded during irradiation. A concentration of 3 at% nitrogen was detected with a total electron dose of only 1.7 e-/Å2, extending the boundaries of EELS signal detection at low electron doses.

Perinatal programming of depressive-like behavior by inflammation in adult offspring mice whose mothers were fed polluted eels: Gender selective effects.

PubMed

Soualeh, Nidhal; Dridi, Imen; Eppe, Gauthier; Némos, Christophe; Soulimani, Rachid; Bouayed, Jaouad

2017-07-01

Several lines of evidence indicate that early-life inflammation may predispose to mental illness, including depression, in later-life. We investigated the impact of perinatal exposure to polluted eels on neonatal, postnatal, and adult brain inflammation, and on the resignation behavior of male and female adult offspring mice. The effects of maternal standard diet (laboratory food) were compared to the same diet enriched with low, intermediate, or highly polluted eels. Brain inflammatory markers including cytokines were assessed in offspring mice on the day of birth (i.e., on the postnatal day-PND 1), upon weaning (PND 21) and at adulthood (PND 100). Plasma myeloperoxidase and corticosterone levels were evaluated at PND 100. Immobility behavior of offspring was assessed in adulthood (i.e., at PNDs 95-100), using the tail suspension and forced swimming tests. Chronic brain inflammation was found in male and female offspring mice compared to controls, as assessed at PNDs 1, 21, and 100. The level of myeloperoxidase was found to be significantly higher in both adult males and females vs. control offspring. However, high corticosterone levels were only found in male offspring mice that were perinatally exposed to eels, suggesting a gender-selective dysregulation of the adult hypothalamic-pituitaryadrenal (HPA) axis. Gender-specific differences were also detected in adulthood in regard to offspring resignation behavior. Thus, compared to controls, males, but not females, whose mothers were fed eels during pregnancy and lactation exhibited a depressive-like behavior in adult age in both behavioral models of depression. Depressive symptoms were more pronounced in male mice perinatally exposed to either intermediate or highly polluted eels than those exposed to only lowly polluted eels. Our results indicate that early-life inflammatory insult is a plausible causative factor that induces the depressive phenotype exhibited by male adult offspring mice, most likely through a gender-specific HPA axis enhanced activation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Duplicated Leptin Receptors in Two Species of Eel Bring New Insights into the Evolution of the Leptin System in Vertebrates

PubMed Central

Morini, Marina; Pasquier, Jérémy; Dirks, Ron; van den Thillart, Guido; Tomkiewicz, Jonna; Rousseau, Karine; Dufour, Sylvie; Lafont, Anne-Gaëlle

2015-01-01

Since its discovery in mammals as a key-hormone in reproduction and metabolism, leptin has been identified in an increasing number of tetrapods and teleosts. Tetrapods possess only one leptin gene, while most teleosts possess two leptin genes, as a result of the teleost third whole genome duplication event (3R). Leptin acts through a specific receptor (LEPR). In the European and Japanese eels, we identified two leptin genes, and for the first time in vertebrates, two LEPR genes. Synteny analyses indicated that eel LEPRa and LEPRb result from teleost 3R. LEPRb seems to have been lost in the teleost lineage shortly after the elopomorph divergence. Quantitative PCRs revealed a wide distribution of leptins and LEPRs in the European eel, including tissues involved in metabolism and reproduction. Noticeably, leptin1 was expressed in fat tissue, while leptin2 in the liver, reflecting subfunctionalization. Four-month fasting had no impact on the expression of leptins and LEPRs in control European eels. This might be related to the remarkable adaptation of silver eel metabolism to long-term fasting throughout the reproductive oceanic migration. In contrast, sexual maturation induced differential increases in the expression of leptins and LEPRs in the BPG-liver axis. Leptin2 was strikingly upregulated in the liver, the central organ of the reproductive metabolic challenge in teleosts. LEPRs were differentially regulated during sexual maturation, which may have contributed to the conservation of the duplicated LEPRs in this species. This suggests an ancient and positive role of the leptin system in the vertebrate reproductive function. This study brings new insights on the evolutionary history of the leptin system in vertebrates. Among extant vertebrates, the eel represents a unique case of duplicated leptins and leptin receptors as a result of 3R. PMID:25946034

Evaluation of Multi-Scale Climate Effects on Annual Recruitment Levels of the Japanese Eel, Anguilla japonica, to Taiwan

PubMed Central

Tzeng, Wann-Nian; Tseng, Yu-Heng; Han, Yu-San; Hsu, Chih-Chieh; Chang, Chih-Wei; Di Lorenzo, Emanuele; Hsieh, Chih-hao

2012-01-01

Long-term (1967–2008) glass eel catches were used to investigate climatic effects on the annual recruitment of Japanese eel to Taiwan. Specifically, three prevailing hypotheses that potentially explain the annual recruitment were evaluated. Hypothesis 1: high precipitation shifts the salinity front northward, resulting in favorable spawning locations. Hypothesis 2: a southward shift of the position of the North Equatorial Current (NEC) bifurcation provides a favorable larval transport route. Hypothesis 3: ocean conditions (eddy activities and productivity) along the larval migration route influence larval survival. Results of time series regression and wavelet analyses suggest that Hypothesis 1 is not supported, as the glass eel catches exhibited a negative relationship with precipitation. Hypothesis 2 is plausible. However, the catches are correlated with the NEC bifurcation with a one-year lag. Considering the time needed for larval transport (only four to six months), the one-year lag correlation does not support the direct transport hypothesis. Hypothesis 3 is supported indirectly by the results. Significant correlations were found between catches and climate indices that affect ocean productivity and eddy activities, such as the Quasi Biennial Oscillation (QBO), North Pacific Gyre Oscillation (NPGO), Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), and Western Pacific Oscillation (WPO). Wavelet analysis reveals three periodicities of eel catches: 2.7, 5.4, and 10.3 years. The interannual coherence with QBO and the Niño 3.4 region suggests that the shorter-term climate variability is modulated zonally by equatorial dynamics. The low-frequency coherence with WPO, PDO, and NPGO demonstrates the decadal modulation of meridional teleconnection via ocean–atmosphere interactions. Furthermore, WPO and QBO are linked to solar activities. These results imply that the Japanese eel recruitment may be influenced by multi-timescale climate variability. Our findings call for investigation of extra-tropical ocean dynamics that affect survival of eels during transport, in addition to the existing efforts to study the equatorial system. PMID:22383976

Evaluation of multi-scale climate effects on annual recruitment levels of the Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica, to Taiwan.

PubMed

Tzeng, Wann-Nian; Tseng, Yu-Heng; Han, Yu-San; Hsu, Chih-Chieh; Chang, Chih-Wei; Di Lorenzo, Emanuele; Hsieh, Chih-Hao

2012-01-01

Long-term (1967-2008) glass eel catches were used to investigate climatic effects on the annual recruitment of Japanese eel to Taiwan. Specifically, three prevailing hypotheses that potentially explain the annual recruitment were evaluated. Hypothesis 1: high precipitation shifts the salinity front northward, resulting in favorable spawning locations. Hypothesis 2: a southward shift of the position of the North Equatorial Current (NEC) bifurcation provides a favorable larval transport route. Hypothesis 3: ocean conditions (eddy activities and productivity) along the larval migration route influence larval survival. Results of time series regression and wavelet analyses suggest that Hypothesis 1 is not supported, as the glass eel catches exhibited a negative relationship with precipitation. Hypothesis 2 is plausible. However, the catches are correlated with the NEC bifurcation with a one-year lag. Considering the time needed for larval transport (only four to six months), the one-year lag correlation does not support the direct transport hypothesis. Hypothesis 3 is supported indirectly by the results. Significant correlations were found between catches and climate indices that affect ocean productivity and eddy activities, such as the Quasi Biennial Oscillation (QBO), North Pacific Gyre Oscillation (NPGO), Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), and Western Pacific Oscillation (WPO). Wavelet analysis reveals three periodicities of eel catches: 2.7, 5.4, and 10.3 years. The interannual coherence with QBO and the Niño 3.4 region suggests that the shorter-term climate variability is modulated zonally by equatorial dynamics. The low-frequency coherence with WPO, PDO, and NPGO demonstrates the decadal modulation of meridional teleconnection via ocean-atmosphere interactions. Furthermore, WPO and QBO are linked to solar activities. These results imply that the Japanese eel recruitment may be influenced by multi-timescale climate variability. Our findings call for investigation of extra-tropical ocean dynamics that affect survival of eels during transport, in addition to the existing efforts to study the equatorial system.

50 CFR 660.79 - EFH Conservation Areas off the Coast of California.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (CONTINUED) FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES....330; and §§ 660.360. (a) Eel River Canyon. The boundary of the Eel River Canyon EFH Conservation Area...

50 CFR 660.79 - EFH Conservation Areas off the Coast of California.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE (CONTINUED) FISHERIES OFF WEST COAST STATES....330; and §§ 660.360. (a) Eel River Canyon. The boundary of the Eel River Canyon EFH Conservation Area...

Clustering analysis strategies for electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS).

PubMed

Torruella, Pau; Estrader, Marta; López-Ortega, Alberto; Baró, Maria Dolors; Varela, Maria; Peiró, Francesca; Estradé, Sònia

2018-02-01

In this work, the use of cluster analysis algorithms, widely applied in the field of big data, is proposed to explore and analyze electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) data sets. Three different data clustering approaches have been tested both with simulated and experimental data from Fe 3 O 4 /Mn 3 O 4 core/shell nanoparticles. The first method consists on applying data clustering directly to the acquired spectra. A second approach is to analyze spectral variance with principal component analysis (PCA) within a given data cluster. Lastly, data clustering on PCA score maps is discussed. The advantages and requirements of each approach are studied. Results demonstrate how clustering is able to recover compositional and oxidation state information from EELS data with minimal user input, giving great prospects for its usage in EEL spectroscopy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Direct observations of American eels migrating across the continental shelf to the Sargasso Sea

PubMed Central

Béguer-Pon, Mélanie; Castonguay, Martin; Shan, Shiliang; Benchetrit, José; Dodson, Julian J.

2015-01-01

Since inferring spawning areas from larval distributions in the Sargasso Sea a century ago, the oceanic migration of adult American eels has remained a mystery. No adult eel has ever been observed migrating in the open ocean or in the spawning area. Here, we track movements of maturing eels equipped with pop-up satellite archival tags from the Scotian Shelf (Canada) into the open ocean, with one individual migrating 2,400 km to the northern limit of the spawning site in the Sargasso Sea. The reconstructed routes suggest a migration in two phases: one over the continental shelf and along its edge in shallow waters; the second in deeper waters straight south towards the spawning area. This study is the first direct evidence of adult Anguilla migrating to the Sargasso Sea and represents an important step forward in the understanding of routes and migratory cues. PMID:26505325

Electron energy-loss spectroscopy of single nanocrystals: mapping of tin allotropes.

PubMed

Roesgaard, Søren; Ramasse, Quentin; Chevallier, Jacques; Fyhn, Mogens; Julsgaard, Brian

2018-05-25

Using monochromated electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), we are able to map different allotropes in Sn-nanocrystals embedded in Si. It is demonstrated that α-Sn and β-Sn, as well as an interface related plasmon, can be distinguished in embedded Sn-nanostructures. The EELS data is interpreted by standard non-negative matrix factorization followed by a manual Lorentzian decomposition. The decomposition allows for a more physical understanding of the EELS mapping without reducing the level of information. Extending the analysis from a reference system to smaller nanocrystals demonstrates that allotrope determination in nanoscale systems down below 5 nm is possible. Such local information proves the use of monochromated EELS mapping as a powerful technique to study nanoscale systems. This possibility enables investigation of small nanostructures that cannot be investigated through other means, allowing for a better understanding and thus leading to realizations that can result in nanomaterials with improved properties.

Estimation of daily age and timing of hatching of exotic Asian swamp eels Monopterus albus (Zuiew, 1793) in a backwater marsh of the Chattahoochee River, Georgia, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Long, James M.; Lafleur, C.

2011-01-01

Otoliths were used to estimate daily age, growth, and hatching date of the exotic Asian swamp eel (Monopterus albus) captured from a backwater marsh of the Chattahoochee River, Georgia, USA. The eels were sampled using leaf litter traps (N = 140) from 17 July to 28 August 2008. The captured (N = 15) Asian swamp eels ranged in total length from 4.9 cm to 12.2 cm, and were estimated to be from 21 to 51 days old (N = 13), and hatched from 13 June to 7 August 2008. Assuming linear growth, these individuals grew an average rate of 0.2 cm per day. To the authors' knowledge, this was the first time otoliths were used to estimate daily age, growth, and hatching date for M. albus, which can be useful for understanding the ecology of this species in the wild.

Electron energy-loss spectroscopy of single nanocrystals: mapping of tin allotropes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roesgaard, Søren; Ramasse, Quentin; Chevallier, Jacques; Fyhn, Mogens; Julsgaard, Brian

2018-05-01

Using monochromated electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), we are able to map different allotropes in Sn-nanocrystals embedded in Si. It is demonstrated that α-Sn and β-Sn, as well as an interface related plasmon, can be distinguished in embedded Sn-nanostructures. The EELS data is interpreted by standard non-negative matrix factorization followed by a manual Lorentzian decomposition. The decomposition allows for a more physical understanding of the EELS mapping without reducing the level of information. Extending the analysis from a reference system to smaller nanocrystals demonstrates that allotrope determination in nanoscale systems down below 5 nm is possible. Such local information proves the use of monochromated EELS mapping as a powerful technique to study nanoscale systems. This possibility enables investigation of small nanostructures that cannot be investigated through other means, allowing for a better understanding and thus leading to realizations that can result in nanomaterials with improved properties.

Solvent and extraction methods effects on the quality of eel (Anguilla bicolor) oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sasongko, H.; Efendi, N. R.; Budihardjo, A.; Farida, Y.; Amartiwi, T.; Rahmawati, A. A.; Wicaksono, A.; Sugiyarto

2017-01-01

Eel (Anguilla bicolor) is a general fish consumption in many countries, especially Japan, China, Germany, and France. Besides its vitamin rich, eel oil is also known to contain fatty acids that are necessary for pharmaceutical purposes and as food a supplement. This research was aimed to evaluate the quality of eel oil by different solvent and extraction methods. In this study, fresh eels were extracted using maceration and reflux methods.Chloroform was used as the solvent in the maceration while water used in the reflux method. The oil quality was examined based on the Official Methods of Analysis of the Association of Official Analytical Chemist (AOAC).The result showed that the yield of eel oil using maceration method was 5.44% ± 0.64 with a specific gravity of 0.915 g/mL, while reflux method obtained the yield of 5.33 % ± 0.84 and specific gravity of 0.8575 g/mL. The physicochemical parameters of oil quality used in this study were acid, peroxide, saponification, and iodine value. The maceration method obtained the acid value of 17.389 mgKOH/g, the peroxide value of 7.021meqO2/kg, the saponification value of 111.16mgKOH/g, and the iodine value of 65.14 WIJS. While the reflux method produced the acid value of 9.116 mgKOH/g, the peroxide value of 6.088 meqO2/kg, the saponification value of 70 mgKOH/g, and the iodine value of 87.74 WIJS.

50 CFR 226.211 - Critical habitat for Seven Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) of Salmon (Oncorhynchus spp...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... form and maintain physical habitat conditions and support juvenile growth and mobility; (ii) Water...); Fossil Creek (39.9447, -123.0403); Middle Fork Eel River (40.0780, -123.0442); North Fork Middle Fork Eel...

50 CFR 226.211 - Critical habitat for Seven Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) of Salmon (Oncorhynchus spp...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... form and maintain physical habitat conditions and support juvenile growth and mobility; (ii) Water...); Fossil Creek (39.9447, -123.0403); Middle Fork Eel River (40.0780, -123.0442); North Fork Middle Fork Eel...

50 CFR 226.211 - Critical habitat for Seven Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) of Salmon (Oncorhynchus spp...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... form and maintain physical habitat conditions and support juvenile growth and mobility; (ii) Water...); Fossil Creek (39.9447, -123.0403); Middle Fork Eel River (40.0780, -123.0442); North Fork Middle Fork Eel...

50 CFR 226.211 - Critical habitat for Seven Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) of Salmon (Oncorhynchus spp...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... form and maintain physical habitat conditions and support juvenile growth and mobility; (ii) Water...); Fossil Creek (39.9447, -123.0403); Middle Fork Eel River (40.0780, -123.0442); North Fork Middle Fork Eel...

50 CFR 226.211 - Critical habitat for Seven Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) of Salmon (Oncorhynchus spp...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... form and maintain physical habitat conditions and support juvenile growth and mobility; (ii) Water...); Fossil Creek (39.9447, -123.0403); Middle Fork Eel River (40.0780, -123.0442); North Fork Middle Fork Eel...

Detection of Vibrio vulnificus biotypes 1 and 2 in eels and oysters by PCR amplification.

PubMed Central

Coleman, S S; Melanson, D M; Biosca, E G; Oliver, J D

1996-01-01

DNA extraction procedures and PCR conditions to detect Vibrio vulnificus cells naturally occurring in oysters were developed. In addition, PCR amplification of V. vulnificus from oysters seeded with biotype 1 cells was demonstrated. By the methods described, V. vulnificus cells on a medium (colistin-polymyxin B-cellobiose agar) selective for this pathogen were detectable in oysters harvested in January and March, containing no culturable cells (< 67 CFU/g), as well as in oysters harvested in May and June, containing culturable cells. It was possible to complete DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis within 10 h by using the protocol described for oysters. V. vulnificus biotype 2 cells were also detected in eel tissues that had been infected with this strain and subsequently preserved in formalin. The protocol used for detection of V. vulnificus cells in eels required less than 5 h to complete. Optimum MgCl2 concentrations for the PCR of V. vulnificus from oysters and eels were different, although the same primer pair was used for both. This is the first report on the detection of cells of V. vulnificus naturally present in shellfish and represents a potentially powerful method for monitoring this important human and eel pathogen. PMID:8919800

Ammonia stress under high environmental ammonia induces Hsp70 and Hsp90 in the mud eel, Monopterus cuchia.

PubMed

Hangzo, Hnunlalliani; Banerjee, Bodhisattwa; Saha, Shrabani; Saha, Nirmalendu

2017-02-01

The obligatory air-breathing mud eel (Monopterus cuchia) is frequently being challenged with high environmental ammonia (HEA) exposure in its natural habitats. The present study investigated the possible induction of heat shock protein 70 and 90 (hsp70, hsc70, hsp90α and hsp90β) genes and more expression of Hsp70 and Hsp90 proteins under ammonia stress in different tissues of the mud eel after exposure to HEA (50 mM NH 4 Cl) for 14 days. HEA resulted in significant accumulation of toxic ammonia in different body tissues and plasma, which was accompanied with the stimulation of oxidative stress in the mud eel as evidenced by more accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) during exposure to HEA. Further, hyper-ammonia stress led to significant increase in the levels of mRNA transcripts for inducible hsp70 and hsp90α genes and also their translated proteins in different tissues probably as a consequence of induction of hsp70 and hsp90α genes in the mud eel. However, hyper-ammonia stress was neither associated with any significant alterations in the levels of mRNA transcripts for constitutive hsc70 and hsp90β genes nor their translated proteins in any of the tissues studied. More abundance of Hsp70 and Hsp90α proteins might be one of the strategies adopted by the mud eel to defend itself from the ammonia-induced cellular damages under ammonia stress. Further, this is the first report of ammonia-induced induction of hsp70 and hsp90α genes under hyper-ammonia stress in any freshwater air-breathing teleost.

Controls of tectonics and sediment source locations on along-strike variations in transgressive deposits on the northern California margin

USGS Publications Warehouse

Spinelli, G.A.; Field, M.E.

2003-01-01

We identify two surfaces in the shallow subsurface on the Eel River margin offshore northern California, a lowstand erosion surface, likely formed during the last glacial maximum, and an overlying surface likely formed during the most recent transgression of the shoreline. The lowstand erosion surface, which extends from the inner shelf to near the shelfbreak and from the Eel River to Trinidad Head (???80 km), truncates underlying strata on the shelf. Above the surface, inferred transgressive coastal and estuarine sedimentary units separate it from the transgressive surface on the shelf. Early in the transgression, Eel River sediment was likely both transported down the Eel Canyon and dispersed on the slope, allowing transgressive coastal sediment from the smaller Mad River to accumulate in a recognizable deposit on the shelf. The location of coastal Mad River sediment accumulation was controlled by the location of the paleo-Mad River. Throughout the remainder of the transgression, dispersed sediment from the Eel River accumulated an average of 20 m of onlapping shelf deposits. The distribution and thickness of these transgressive marine units was strongly modified by northwest-southeast trending folds. Thick sediment packages accumulated over structural lows in the lowstand surface. The thinnest sediment accumulations (0-10 m) were deposited over structural highs along faults and uplifting anticlines. The Eel margin, an active margin with steep, high sediment-load streams, has developed a thick transgressive systems tract. On this margin sediment accumulates as rapidly as the processes of uplift and downwarp locally create and destroy accommodation space. Sequence stratigraphic models of tectonically active margins should account for variations in accommodation space along margins as well as across them. ?? 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.

Accumulation, elimination and neuro-oxidative damage under lanthanum exposure in glass eels (Anguilla anguilla).

PubMed

Figueiredo, Cátia; Grilo, Tiago F; Lopes, Clara; Brito, Pedro; Diniz, Mário; Caetano, Miguel; Rosa, Rui; Raimundo, Joana

2018-05-07

Rare earth elements (REEs) comprise elements from lanthanum to lutetium that together with yttrium and scandium are emergent contaminants of critical importance for numerous groundbreaking environmental technologies. Transfer to aquatic ecosystems is expected to increase, however, little information is known about their potential impacts in marine biota. Considering the endangered conservation status of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) and the vulnerability of early fish life stages to contaminants, we exposed glass eels, through water, to an environmentally relevant concentration (120 ng.L - 1 ) of lanthanum (La) for 7 days (plus 7 days of depuration). The aim was to study the accumulation and elimination of La in eel's body and subsequent quantification of acetylcholinesterase (AchE), lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymatic machinery. Accumulation peaked after 72 h-exposure to La, decreasing afterwards, even in continuous exposure. Accumulation was higher in the viscera, followed by the skinless body and ultimately in the head, possibly as a protective mechanism to cope with La neurotoxicity. A significant increase in AChE activity was observed in La-exposed glass eels, suggesting that La 3+ may inhibit the binding of acetylcholine. A depression in lipid peroxidation was registered under La exposure, possibly indicating that La 3+ may play physiological activities and functions as a free radical scavenger. Catalase activity was significantly inhibited in La-exposed glass eels after 72 h, indicating that the availability of La may induce physiological impairment. The quantification of Glutathione S-Transferase activity revealed no differences between control and La-exposed organisms. Further investigation is needed towards understanding the biological effects of REEs. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Differential gene expression analysis in European eels (Anguilla anguilla, L. 1758) naturally infected by macroparasites.

PubMed

Fazio, G; Moné, H; Lecomte-Finiger, R; Sasal, P

2008-06-01

We analyzed the relationships between the macroparasite community of the European eel and the expression of genes involved in the host physiology during its continental life. The genes studied are implicated in (1) host response to environmental stress, i.e., heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and metallothionein (MT); (2) osmoregulation, i.e., beta thyroid hormone receptor (betaTHR) and Na+/K+ATPase; and (3) silvering, i.e., betaTHR, freshwater rod opsin (FWO), and deep-sea rod opsin (DSO). All were enumerated by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. The epizootiological results for 93 yellow eels caught in the Salses-Leucate Lagoon (France) included 11 species: 1 nematode, 2 acanthocephalans, 1 monogenean, and 7 digeneans. The molecular results revealed (1) a significant negative relationship between digenean abundance and the expression level of all the tested genes, except FWO; (2) a significant negative relationship between the abundance of the nematode Anguillicola crassus and the expression level of the Na+/K+ATPase gene; and (3) a significant positive relationship between the A. crassus abundance and the expression level of the MT gene. Eels infected with digeneans had, on average, a lower level of expressed genes. We hypothesize that the parasites may disturb the eel's ability to withstand environmental stress and delay their migration to the Sargasso Sea because of degeneration of the gut. We further propose that the effect of the invasive species, A. crassus, on the gene expression was mainly linked to an increased trophic activity of infected eels. Moreover, it is possible that the parasite may have an effect on the fish's migratory behavior, which is tied to reproductive purposes. Additional work, including an experimental approach, is required to confirm our hypotheses.

Detecting genome-wide gene transcription profiles associated with high pollution burden in the critically endangered European eel.

PubMed

Pujolar, J M; Milan, M; Marino, I A M; Capoccioni, F; Ciccotti, E; Belpaire, C; Covaci, A; Malarvannan, G; Patarnello, T; Bargelloni, L; Zane, L; Maes, G E

2013-05-15

The European eel illustrates an example of a critically endangered fish species strongly affected by human stressors throughout its life cycle, in which pollution is considered to be one of the factors responsible for the decline of the stock. The objective of our study was to better understand the transcriptional response of European eels chronically exposed to pollutants in their natural environment. A total of 42 pre-migrating (silver) female eels from lowly, highly and extremely polluted environments in Belgium and, for comparative purposes, a lowly polluted habitat in Italy were measured for polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and brominated flame retardants (BFRs). Multipollutant level of bioaccumulation was linked to their genome-wide gene transcription using an eel-specific array of 14,913 annotated cDNAs. Shared responses to pollutant exposure were observed when comparing the highly polluted site in Belgium with the relatively clean sites in Belgium and Italy. First, an altered pattern of transcription of genes was associated with detoxification, with a novel European eel CYP3A gene and gluthatione S-transferase transcriptionally up-regulated. Second, an altered pattern of transcription of genes associated with the oxidative phosphorylation pathway, with the following genes involved in the generation of ATP being transcriptionally down-regulated in individuals from the highly polluted site: NADH dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase, ubiquinol-cytochrome c reductase, cytochrome c oxidase and ATP synthase. Although we did not measure metabolism directly, seeing that the transcription level of many genes encoding enzymes involved in the mitochondrial respiratory chain and oxidative phosphorylation were down-regulated in the highly polluted site suggests that pollutants may have a significant effect on energy metabolism in these fish. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Diel periodicity and chronology of upstream migration in yellow-phase American eels (Anguilla rostrata)

USGS Publications Warehouse

Aldinger, Joni L.; Welsh, Stuart A.

2017-01-01

Yellow-phase American eel (Anguilla rostrata) upstream migration is temporally punctuated, yet migration chronology within diel time periods is not well-understood. This study examined diel periodicity, chronology, and total length (TL) of six multi-day, high-count (285–1,868 eels) passage events of upstream migrant yellow-phase American eels at the Millville Dam eel ladder, lower Shenandoah River, West Virginia during 2011–2014. We categorized passage by diel periods (vespertine, nocturnal, matutinal, diurnal) and season (spring, summer, late summer/early fall, fall). We depicted passage counts as time-series histograms and used time-series spectral analysis (Fast Fourier Transformation) to identify cyclical patterns and diel periodicity of upstream migration. We created histograms to examine movement patterns within diel periods for each passage event and fit normal mixture models (2–9 mixtures) to describe multiple peaks of passage counts. Periodicity of movements for each passage event followed a 24-h activity cycle with mostly nocturnal movement. Multimodal models were supported by the data; most modes represented nocturnal movements, but modes at or near the transition between twilight and night were also common. We used mixed-model methodology to examine relationships among TL, diel period, and season. An additive-effects model of diel period + season was the best approximating model. A decreasing trend of mean TL occurred across diel movement periods, with the highest mean TL occurring during fall relative to similar mean values of TL for spring, summer, and late summer/early fall. This study increased our understanding of yellow-phase American eels by demonstrating the non-random nature of their upstream migration.

Adaptive Evolution of Eel Fluorescent Proteins from Fatty Acid Binding Proteins Produces Bright Fluorescence in the Marine Environment.

PubMed

Gruber, David F; Gaffney, Jean P; Mehr, Shaadi; DeSalle, Rob; Sparks, John S; Platisa, Jelena; Pieribone, Vincent A

2015-01-01

We report the identification and characterization of two new members of a family of bilirubin-inducible fluorescent proteins (FPs) from marine chlopsid eels and demonstrate a key region of the sequence that serves as an evolutionary switch from non-fluorescent to fluorescent fatty acid-binding proteins (FABPs). Using transcriptomic analysis of two species of brightly fluorescent Kaupichthys eels (Kaupichthys hyoproroides and Kaupichthys n. sp.), two new FPs were identified, cloned and characterized (Chlopsid FP I and Chlopsid FP II). We then performed phylogenetic analysis on 210 FABPs, spanning 16 vertebrate orders, and including 163 vertebrate taxa. We show that the fluorescent FPs diverged as a protein family and are the sister group to brain FABPs. Our results indicate that the evolution of this family involved at least three gene duplication events. We show that fluorescent FABPs possess a unique, conserved tripeptide Gly-Pro-Pro sequence motif, which is not found in non-fluorescent fatty acid binding proteins. This motif arose from a duplication event of the FABP brain isoforms and was under strong purifying selection, leading to the classification of this new FP family. Residues adjacent to the motif are under strong positive selection, suggesting a further refinement of the eel protein's fluorescent properties. We present a phylogenetic reconstruction of this emerging FP family and describe additional fluorescent FABP members from groups of distantly related eels. The elucidation of this class of fish FPs with diverse properties provides new templates for the development of protein-based fluorescent tools. The evolutionary adaptation from fatty acid-binding proteins to fluorescent fatty acid-binding proteins raises intrigue as to the functional role of bright green fluorescence in this cryptic genus of reclusive eels that inhabit a blue, nearly monochromatic, marine environment.

Multidecadal accumulation of anthropogenic and remineralized dissolved inorganic carbon along the Extended Ellett Line in the northeast Atlantic Ocean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Humphreys, Matthew P.; Griffiths, Alex M.; Achterberg, Eric P.; Holliday, N. Penny; Rérolle, Victoire M. C.; Menzel Barraqueta, Jan-Lukas; Couldrey, Matthew P.; Oliver, Kevin I. C.; Hartman, Susan E.; Esposito, Mario; Boyce, Adrian J.

2016-02-01

Marine carbonate chemistry measurements have been carried out annually since 2009 during UK research cruises along the Extended Ellett Line (EEL), a hydrographic transect in the northeast Atlantic Ocean. The EEL intersects several water masses that are key to the global thermohaline circulation, and therefore the cruises sample a region in which it is critical to monitor secular physical and biogeochemical changes. We have combined results from these EEL cruises with existing quality-controlled observational data syntheses to produce a hydrographic time series for the EEL from 1981 to 2013. This reveals multidecadal increases in dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) throughout the water column, with a near-surface maximum rate of 1.80 ± 0.45 µmol kg-1 yr-1. Anthropogenic CO2 accumulation was assessed, using simultaneous changes in apparent oxygen utilization (AOU) and total alkalinity (TA) as proxies for the biogeochemical processes that influence DIC. The stable carbon isotope composition of DIC (δ13CDIC) was also determined and used as an independent test of our method. We calculated a volume-integrated anthropogenic CO2 accumulation rate of 2.8 ± 0.4 mg C m-3 yr-1 along the EEL, which is about double the global mean. The anthropogenic CO2 component accounts for only 31 ± 6% of the total DIC increase. The remainder is derived from increased organic matter remineralization, which we attribute to the lateral redistribution of water masses that accompanies subpolar gyre contraction. Output from a general circulation ecosystem model demonstrates that spatiotemporal heterogeneity in the observations has not significantly biased our multidecadal rate of change calculations and indicates that the EEL observations have been tracking distal changes in the surrounding North Atlantic and Nordic Seas.

ARC-2007-ACD07-0073-126

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-08-07

LCROSS flight hardware in clean room at Ames N-240. EEL personnel fabricating testing components with Jerry Wang of Ames, Engineering Evaluation labLCROSS flight hardware in clean room at Ames N-240. EEL personnel fabricating testing components with Jerry Wang of Ames, Engineering Evaluation lab

Teaching Population Growth Using Cultures of Vinegar Eels, "Turbatrix aceti" (Nematoda)

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Wallace, Robert L.

2005-01-01

A simple laboratory exercise is presented that follows the population growth of the common vinegar eel, "Turbatrix aceti" (Nematoda), in a microcosm using a simple culture medium. It lends itself to an exercise in a single semester course. (Contains 4 figures.)

Complete genomic sequence and taxonomic position of eel virus European X (EVEX), a rhabdovirus of European eel.

PubMed

Galinier, Richard; van Beurden, Steven; Amilhat, Elsa; Castric, Jeannette; Schoehn, Guy; Verneau, Olivier; Fazio, Géraldine; Allienne, Jean-François; Engelsma, Marc; Sasal, Pierre; Faliex, Elisabeth

2012-06-01

Eel virus European X (EVEX) was first isolated from diseased European eel Anguilla anguilla in Japan at the end of seventies. The virus was tentatively classified into the Rhabdoviridae family on the basis of morphology and serological cross reactivity. This family of viruses is organized into six genera and currently comprises approximately 200 members, many of which are still unassigned because of the lack of molecular data. This work presents the morphological, biochemical and genetic characterizations of EVEX, and proposes a taxonomic classification for this virus. We provide its complete genome sequence, plus a comprehensive sequence comparison between isolates from different geographical origins. The genome encodes the five classical structural proteins plus an overlapping open reading frame in the phosphoprotein gene, coding for a putative C protein. Phylogenic relationship with other rhabdoviruses indicates that EVEX is most closely related to the Vesiculovirus genus and shares the highest identity with trout rhabdovirus 903/87. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Regional variation in energy storage strategies in American glass eels from Eastern Canada.

PubMed

Gaillard, Mélanie; Bernatchez, Louis; Tremblay, Réjean; Audet, Céline

2015-10-01

Energy status was analyzed in glass eels captured during two early waves of arrival at the mouths of the Mersey River, Nova Scotia, Canada (MR), and Grande-Rivière-Blanche, Québec, Canada (GRB), and according to their salinity preference (freshwater, brackish, or saltwater). Glass eels captured in the GRB estuary were larger, more pigmented, and exhibited higher whole-body glycogen, phospholipid, and sterol and wax ester contents. Those from MR had a higher condition index and a higher whole-body triacylglycerol content, suggesting different patterns of storage and/or use of energy reserves. Within a river, a delay of two weeks in estuarine arrival was characterized by significantly lower energy reserves. No differences in energy storage were observed according to salinity preference. Thus, the results revealed the occurrence of different energy storage strategies according to glass eel migration distance and duration, but not according to salinity preference. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Mapping bright and dark modes in gold nanoparticle chains using electron energy loss spectroscopy.

PubMed

Barrow, Steven J; Rossouw, David; Funston, Alison M; Botton, Gianluigi A; Mulvaney, Paul

2014-07-09

We present a scanning transmission electron microscopy-electron energy loss spectroscopy (STEM-EELS) investigation of gold nanosphere chains with lengths varying from 1 to 5 particles. We show localized EELS signals from the chains and identify energy-loss peaks arising due to l = 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 plasmon modes through the use of EELS mapping. We also show the evolution of the energy of these modes as the length of a given chain increases, and we find that a chain containing N particles can accommodate at least N experimentally observable modes, in addition to the transverse mode. As the chain length is increased by the addition of one more gold particle to the chain, the new N + 1 mode becomes the highest energy mode, while the existing modes lower their energy and eventually asymptote as they delocalize along the chain. We also show that modes become increasingly difficult to detect with the EELS technique as l approaches N. The data are compared to numerical simulations.

Analytical modeling of electron energy loss spectroscopy of graphene: Ab initio study versus extended hydrodynamic model.

PubMed

Djordjević, Tijana; Radović, Ivan; Despoja, Vito; Lyon, Keenan; Borka, Duško; Mišković, Zoran L

2018-01-01

We present an analytical modeling of the electron energy loss (EEL) spectroscopy data for free-standing graphene obtained by scanning transmission electron microscope. The probability density for energy loss of fast electrons traversing graphene under normal incidence is evaluated using an optical approximation based on the conductivity of graphene given in the local, i.e., frequency-dependent form derived by both a two-dimensional, two-fluid extended hydrodynamic (eHD) model and an ab initio method. We compare the results for the real and imaginary parts of the optical conductivity in graphene obtained by these two methods. The calculated probability density is directly compared with the EEL spectra from three independent experiments and we find very good agreement, especially in the case of the eHD model. Furthermore, we point out that the subtraction of the zero-loss peak from the experimental EEL spectra has a strong influence on the analytical model for the EEL spectroscopy data. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Energy-filtered TEM imaging and EELS study of ODS particles and argon-filled cavities in ferritic-martensitic steels.

PubMed

Klimiankou, M; Lindau, R; Möslang, A

2005-01-01

Oxide-dispersion-strengthened (ODS) ferritic-martensitic steels with yttrium oxide (Y(2)O(3)) have been produced by mechanical alloying and hot isostatic pressing for use as advanced material in fusion power reactors. Argon gas, usually widely used as inert gas during mechanical alloying, was surprisingly detected in the nanodispersion-strengthened materials. Energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) led to the following results: (i) chemical composition of ODS particles, (ii) voids with typical diameters of 1-6 nm are formed in the matrix, (iii) these voids are filled with Ar gas, and (iv) the high-density nanosized ODS particles serve as trapping centers for the Ar bubbles. The Ar L(3,2) energy loss edge at 245 eV as well as the absorption features of the ODS particle elements were identified in the EELS spectrum. The energy resolution in the EEL spectrum of about 1.0 eV allows to identify the electronic structure of the ODS particles.

Can lagrangian models reproduce the migration time of European eel obtained from otolith analysis?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rodríguez-Díaz, L.; Gómez-Gesteira, M.

2017-12-01

European eel can be found at the Bay of Biscay after a long migration across the Atlantic. The duration of migration, which takes place at larval stage, is of primary importance to understand eel ecology and, hence, its survival. This duration is still a controversial matter since it can range from 7 months to > 4 years depending on the method to estimate duration. The minimum migration duration estimated from our lagrangian model is similar to the duration obtained from the microstructure of eel otoliths, which is typically on the order of 7-9 months. The lagrangian model showed to be sensitive to different conditions like spatial and time resolution, release depth, release area and initial distribution. In general, migration showed to be faster when decreasing the depth and increasing the resolution of the model. In average, the fastest migration was obtained when only advective horizontal movement was considered. However, faster migration was even obtained in some cases when locally oriented random migration was taken into account.

Experimental hydrodynamics of swimming in fishes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tytell, Eric Daniel

2005-11-01

The great diversity of fish body shapes suggests that they have adapted to different selective pressures. For many fishes, the pressures include hydrodynamic demands: swimming efficiently or accelerating rapidly, for instance. However, the hydrodynamic advantages or disadvantages to specific morphologies are poorly understood. In particular, eels have been considered inefficient swimmers, but they migrate long distances without feeding, a task that requires efficient swimming. This dissertation, therefore, begins with an examination of the swimming hydrodynamics of American eels, Anguilla rostrata, at steady swimming speeds from 0.5 to 2 body lengths (L) per second and during accelerations from -1.4 to 1.3 L s -2. The final chapter examines the hydrodynamic effects of body shape directly by describing three-dimensional flow around swimming bluegill sunfish, Lepomis macrochirus. In all chapters, flow is quantified using digital particle image velocimetry, and simultaneous kinematics are measured from high-resolution digital video. The wake behind a swimming eel in the horizontal midline plane is described first. Rather than producing a wake with fluid jets angled backwards, like in fishes such as sunfish, eels have a wake with exclusively lateral jets. The lack of downstream momentum indicates that eels balance the axial forces of thrust and drag evenly over time and over their bodies, and therefore do not change axial fluid momentum. This even balance, present at all steady swimming speeds, is probably due to the relatively uniform body shape of eels. As eels accelerate, thrust exceeds drag, axial momentum increases, and the wake approaches that of other fishes. During steady swimming, though, the lack of axial momentum prevents direct efficiency estimation. The effect of body shape was examined directly by measuring flow in multiple transverse planes along the body of bluegill sunfish swimming at 1.2 L s-1. The dorsal and anal fin, neglected in many previous studies of fish swimming, are shown to produce forces comparable to that of the caudal fin. Additionally, the caudal fin absorbs some of the energy from the vortices these fins shed, possibly augmenting its efficiency. Finally, an updated structure for the three-dimensional vortex wake of a sunfish is proposed.

Cryopreservation of green fluorescent protein (GFP)-labeled primordial germ cells with GFP fused to the 3' untranslated region of the nanos gene by vitrification of Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) somite stage embryos.

PubMed

Kawakami, Y; Ishihara, M; Saito, T; Fujimoto, T; Adachi, S; Arai, K; Yamaha, E

2012-12-01

Primordial germ cells (PGC) are the only cell type in developing embryos with the potential to transmit genetic information to the next generation. In this study, PGC of Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica) were visualized by injection of mRNA synthesized from a construct carrying the green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene fused to the 3' untranslated region of the Japanese eel nanos gene. We investigated the feasibility of cryopreserving Japanese eel PGC by vitrification of dechorionated whole somite stage embryos. The GFP-labeled PGC were rapidly cooled using liquid nitrogen after exposure to a pretreatment solution containing 1.5 M cryoprotectant (methanol, dimethyl sulfoxide, and glycerol for 10 min and ethylene glycol for 10, 20, and 30 min) and a vitrification solution containing 3 M cryoprotectant and 0.5 M sucrose for 1, 5, and 10 min. Ethylene glycerol is an effective cryoprotectant for embryonic cells and shows no evidence of ice formation after thawing. Vitrified and thawed PGC were transplanted into blastula stage embryos from zebrafish (Danio rerio). The GFP-labeled PGC migrated toward the host gonadal ridge, suggesting maintenance of their normal migration motility. These techniques may assist in achieving inter- and intraspecies germ-line chimers using donor Japanese eel PGC.

Genetic Relatedness among Environmental, Clinical, and Diseased-Eel Vibrio vulnificus Isolates from Different Geographic Regions by Ribotyping and Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA PCR

PubMed Central

Arias, Covadonga R.; Pujalte, María Jesús; Garay, Esperanza; Aznar, Rosa

1998-01-01

Genetic relationships among 132 strains of Vibrio vulnificus (clinical, environmental, and diseased-eel isolates from different geographic origins, as well as seawater and shellfish isolates from the western Mediterranean coast, including reference strains) were analyzed by random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) PCR. Results were validated by ribotyping. For ribotyping, DNAs were digested with KpnI and hybridized with an oligonucleotide probe complementary to a highly conserved sequence in the 23S rRNA gene. Random amplification of DNA was performed with M13 and T3 universal primers. The comparison between ribotyping and RAPD PCR revealed an overall agreement regarding the high level of homogeneity of diseased-eel isolates in contrast to the genetic heterogeneity of Mediterranean isolates. The latter suggests the existence of autochthonous clones present in Mediterranean coastal waters. Both techniques have revealed a genetic proximity among Spanish fish farm isolates and a close relationship between four Spanish eel farm isolates and some Mediterranean isolates. Whereas the differentiation within diseased-eel isolates was only possible by ribotyping, RAPD PCR was able to differentiate phenotypically atypical isolates of V. vulnificus. On the basis of our results, RAPD PCR is proposed as a better technique than ribotyping for rapid typing in the routine analysis of new V. vulnificus isolates. PMID:9726889

Silicone passive equilibrium samplers as 'chemometers' in eels and sediments of a Swedish lake.

PubMed

Jahnke, Annika; Mayer, Philipp; McLachlan, Michael S; Wickström, Håkan; Gilbert, Dorothea; MacLeod, Matthew

2014-03-01

Passive equilibrium samplers deployed in two or more media of a system and allowed to come to equilibrium can be viewed as 'chemometers' that reflect the difference in chemical activities of contaminants between the media. We applied silicone-based equilibrium samplers to measure relative chemical activities of seven 'indicator' polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and hexachlorobenzene in eels and sediments from a Swedish lake. Chemical concentrations in eels and sediments were also measured using exhaustive extraction methods. Lipid-normalized concentrations in eels were higher than organic carbon-normalized concentrations in sediments, with biota-sediment accumulation factors (BSAFs) of five PCBs ranging from 2.7 to 12.7. In contrast, chemical activities of the same pollutants inferred by passive sampling were 3.5 to 31.3 times lower in eels than in sediments. The apparent contradiction between BSAFs and activity ratios is consistent with the sorptive capacity of lipids exceeding that of sediment organic carbon from this ecosystem by up to 50-fold. Factors that may contribute to the elevated activity in sediments are discussed, including slower response of sediments than water to reduced emissions, sediment diagenesis and sorption to phytoplankton. The 'chemometer' approach has the potential to become a powerful tool to study the thermodynamic controls on persistent organic chemicals in the environment and should be extended to other environmental compartments.

Analysis of Local Structure, Chemistry and Bonding by Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mayer, Joachim

In the present chapter, the reader will first be introduced briefly to the basic principles of analytical transmission electron microscopy (ATEM) with special emphasis on electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and energy-filtering TEM. The quantification of spectra to obtain chemical information and the origin and interpretation of near-edge fine structures in EELS (ELNES) are discussed. Special attention will be given to the characterization of internal interfaces and the literature in this area will be reviewed. Selected examples of the application of ATEM in the investigation of internal interfaces will be given. These examples include both EELS in the energy-filtering TEM and in the scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM).

Effect of thermal annealing treatment with titanium chelate on buffer layer in inverted polymer solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Zhiyong; Wang, Ning; Fu, Yan

2016-12-01

The solution processable electron extraction layer (EEL) is crucial for polymer solar cells (PSCs). Here, we investigated titanium (diisopropoxide) bis(2,4-pentanedionate) (TIPD) as an EEL and fabricated inverted PSCs with a blend of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT) and indene-C60 bisadduct (ICBA) acting as the photoactive layer, with a structure of ITO/TIPD/P3HT:ICBA/MoO3/Ag. After thermal annealing treatment at 150 °C for 15 min, the PSC performances increased from 3.85% to 6.84% and they achieve stable power conversion efficiency (PCE), with a similar PCE compared with TiO2 as an EEL by the vacuum evaporated method. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) confirmed that the TIPD decomposed and formed the Tidbnd O bond, and the energy level of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital and the highest occupied molecular orbital increased. The space charge limited current (SCLC) measurements further confirmed the improvement in electron collection and the transport ability using TIPD as the EEL and thermal annealing.

Electron energy loss spectroscopy on semiconductor heterostructures for optoelectronics and photonics applications.

PubMed

Eljarrat, A; López-Conesa, L; Estradé, S; Peiró, F

2016-05-01

In this work, we present characterization methods for the analysis of nanometer-sized devices, based on silicon and III-V nitride semiconductor materials. These methods are devised in order to take advantage of the aberration corrected scanning transmission electron microscope, equipped with a monochromator. This set-up ensures the necessary high spatial and energy resolution for the characterization of the smallest structures. As with these experiments, we aim to obtain chemical and structural information, we use electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). The low-loss region of EELS is exploited, which features fundamental electronic properties of semiconductor materials and facilitates a high data throughput. We show how the detailed analysis of these spectra, using theoretical models and computational tools, can enhance the analytical power of EELS. In this sense, initially, results from the model-based fit of the plasmon peak are presented. Moreover, the application of multivariate analysis algorithms to low-loss EELS is explored. Finally, some physical limitations of the technique, such as spatial delocalization, are mentioned. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

EEL spectroscopic tomography: towards a new dimension in nanomaterials analysis.

PubMed

Yedra, Lluís; Eljarrat, Alberto; Arenal, Raúl; Pellicer, Eva; Cabo, Moisés; López-Ortega, Alberto; Estrader, Marta; Sort, Jordi; Baró, Maria Dolors; Estradé, Sònia; Peiró, Francesca

2012-11-01

Electron tomography is a widely spread technique for recovering the three dimensional (3D) shape of nanostructured materials. Using a spectroscopic signal to achieve a reconstruction adds a fourth chemical dimension to the 3D structure. Up to date, energy filtering of the images in the transmission electron microscope (EFTEM) is the usual spectroscopic method even if most of the information in the spectrum is lost. Unlike EFTEM tomography, the use of electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) spectrum images (SI) for tomographic reconstruction retains all chemical information, and the possibilities of this new approach still remain to be fully exploited. In this article we prove the feasibility of EEL spectroscopic tomography at low voltages (80 kV) and short acquisition times from data acquired using an aberration corrected instrument and data treatment by Multivariate Analysis (MVA), applied to Fe(x)Co((3-x))O(4)@Co(3)O(4) mesoporous materials. This approach provides a new scope into materials; the recovery of full EELS signal in 3D. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

EELS Analysis of Nylon 6 Nanofibers Reinforced with Nitroxide-Functionalized Graphene Oxide.

PubMed

Leyva-Porras, César; Ornelas-Gutiérrez, C; Miki-Yoshida, M; Avila-Vega, Yazmín I; Macossay, Javier; Bonilla-Cruz, José

2014-01-01

A detailed analysis by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) of nitroxide-functionalized graphene oxide layers (GOFT) dispersed in Nylon 6 nanofibers is reported herein. The functionalization and exfoliation process of graphite oxide to GOFT was confirmed by TEM using electron diffraction patterns (EDP), wherein 1 to 4 graphene layers of GOFT were observed. The distribution and alignment of GOFT layers within a sample of Nylon 6 nanofiber reveals that GOFT platelets are mainly within the fiber, but some were partially protruding from it. Furthermore, Nylon 6 nanofibers exhibit an average diameter of 225 nm with several microns in length. GOFT platelets embedded into the fiber, the pristine fiber, and amorphous carbon were analyzed by EELS where each spectra [corresponding to the carbon edge (C-K)] exhibited changes in the fine structure, allowing a clear distinction between: i) GOFT single-layers, ii) Nylon-6 nanofibers, and iii) the carbon substrate. EELS analysis is presented here for the first time as a powerful tool to identify functionalized graphene single-layers (< 4 layers of GOFT) into a Nylon 6 nanofiber composite.

EELS Analysis of Nylon 6 Nanofibers Reinforced with Nitroxide-Functionalized Graphene Oxide

PubMed Central

Leyva-Porras, César; Ornelas-Gutiérrez, C.; Miki-Yoshida, M.; Avila-Vega, Yazmín I.; Macossay, Javier; Bonilla-Cruz, José

2014-01-01

A detailed analysis by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) of nitroxide-functionalized graphene oxide layers (GOFT) dispersed in Nylon 6 nanofibers is reported herein. The functionalization and exfoliation process of graphite oxide to GOFT was confirmed by TEM using electron diffraction patterns (EDP), wherein 1 to 4 graphene layers of GOFT were observed. The distribution and alignment of GOFT layers within a sample of Nylon 6 nanofiber reveals that GOFT platelets are mainly within the fiber, but some were partially protruding from it. Furthermore, Nylon 6 nanofibers exhibit an average diameter of 225 nm with several microns in length. GOFT platelets embedded into the fiber, the pristine fiber, and amorphous carbon were analyzed by EELS where each spectra [corresponding to the carbon edge (C-K)] exhibited changes in the fine structure, allowing a clear distinction between: i) GOFT single-layers, ii) Nylon-6 nanofibers, and iii) the carbon substrate. EELS analysis is presented here for the first time as a powerful tool to identify functionalized graphene single-layers (< 4 layers of GOFT) into a Nylon 6 nanofiber composite. PMID:24634536

Estimation of daily age and timing of hatching of exotic Asian swamp eels Monopterus albus (Zuiew, 1793) in a backwater marsh of the Chattahoochee River, Georgia, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Long, J.M.; Lafleur, C.

2011-01-01

Otoliths were used to estimate daily age, growth, and hatching date of the exotic Asian swamp eel (Monopterus albus) captured from a backwater marsh of the Chattahoochee River, Georgia, USA. The eels were sampled using leaf litter traps (N=140) from 17 July to 28 August 2008. The captured (N=15) Asian swamp eels ranged in total length from 4.9cm to 12.2cm, and were estimated to be from 21 to 51days old (N=13), and hatched from 13 June to 7 August 2008. Assuming linear growth, these individuals grew an average rate of 0.2cm per day. To the authors' knowledge, this was the first time otoliths were used to estimate daily age, growth, and hatching date for M. albus, which can be useful for understanding the ecology of this species in the wild. Published 2011. This article is a US Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.

Maximal oxygen consumption increases with temperature in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) through increased heart rate and arteriovenous extraction.

PubMed

Claësson, Débora; Wang, Tobias; Malte, Hans

2016-01-01

Global warming results in increasing water temperature, which may represent a threat to aquatic ectotherms. The rising temperature affects ecology through physiology, by exerting a direct limiting effect on the individual. The mechanism controlling individual thermal tolerance is still elusive, but some evidence shows that the heart plays a central role, and that insufficient transport of oxygen to the respiring tissues may determine the thermal tolerance of animals. In this study, the influence of the heart in thermal limitation was investigated by measurements of aerobic scope in the European eel ( Anguilla anguilla ) together with measurements of cardiac output during rest and activity. Aerobic capacity was not limited by an acutely increased temperature in the European eel. Oxygen demand was met by an increase in heart rate and arteriovenous extraction. These findings suggest that thermal tolerance during exposure to acute temperature changes is not defined by oxygen transport capacity in the eel, and other mechanisms may play a central role in limiting thermal tolerance in these fish.

Gemfibrozil modulates cytochrome P450 and peroxisome proliferation-inducible enzymes in the liver of the yellow European eel (Anguilla anguilla).

PubMed

Lyssimachou, Angeliki; Thibaut, Rémi; Gisbert, Enric; Porte, Cinta

2014-01-01

The human lipid regulator gemfibrozil (GEM) has been shown to induce peroxisome proliferation in rodents leading to hepatocarcinogenesis. Since GEM is found at biological active concentrations in the aquatic environment, the present study investigates the effects of this drug on the yellow European eel (Anguilla anguilla). Eels were injected with different concentrations of GEM (0.1 to 200 μg/g) and sampled 24- and 96-h post-injection. GEM was shown to inhibit CYP1A, CYP3A and CYP2K-like catalytic activities 24-h post-injection, but at 96-h post-injection, only CYP1A was significantly altered in fish injected with the highest GEM dose. On the contrary, GEM had little effect on the phase II enzymes examined (UDP-glucuronyltransferase and glutathione-S-transferase). Peroxisome proliferation inducible enzymes (liver peroxisomal acyl-CoA oxidase and catalase) were very weakly induced. No evidence of a significant effect on the endocrine system of eels was observed in terms of plasmatic steroid levels or testosterone esterification in the liver.

Direct calorimetry of free-moving eels with manipulated thyroid status

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Ginneken, Vincent; Ballieux, Bart; Antonissen, Erik; van der Linden, Rob; Gluvers, Ab; van den Thillart, Guido

2007-02-01

In birds and mammals, the thyroid gland secretes the iodothyronine hormones of which tetraiodothyronine (T4) is less active than triiodothyronine (T3). The action of T3 and T4 is calorigenic and is involved in the control of metabolic rate. Across all vertebrates, thyroid hormones also play a major role in differentiation, development and growth. Although the fish thyroidal system has been researched extensively, its role in thermogenesis is unclear. In this study, we measured overall heat production to an accuracy of 0.1 mW by direct calorimetry in a free-moving European eel ( Anguilla anguilla L.) with different thyroid status. Hyperthyroidism was induced by injection of T3 and T4, and hypothyroidism was induced with phenylthiourea. The results show for the first time at the organismal level, using direct calorimetry, that neither overall heat production nor overall oxygen consumption in eels is affected by hyperthyroidism. Therefore, we conclude that the thermogenic metabolism-stimulating effect of thyroid hormones (TH) is not present with a cold-blooded fish species like the European eel. This supports the concept that TH does not stimulate thermogenesis in poikilothermic species.

Geographic and Oceanographic Information within Trace Metals in Moray Eel Otoliths

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Savidge, W.; Windom, H.; Buck, C.

2016-02-01

Adult moray eels exhibit high site fidelity to particular reefs. We hypothesized that the trace metal composition of otoliths of eels could potentially provide insight into gradients in oceanographic processes on the South Atlantic Bight continental shelf where eels are resident on patchy hardbottom reefs throughout the entire region. Otoliths of moray eels collected from the mid-shelf of South Carolina were examined for their trace metal composition (Ba, Sr, Pb, Cu, Li, Mg, V, Mn, Zn). Samples were broadly lumped into four regions: "North," "North Cape Romain," "South Cape Romain," and "South". Trace metal composition within otoliths showed no latitudinal trends. However, factor analysis of the trace metals revealed that otoliths from the South Cape Romain region appeared as a compositionally distinct subgroup, based primarily on their Li and Mg content. Recent work on corals (Montagna et al. 2014) has shown the Li/Mg ratio within coral skeletons is sensitive to calcification temperature and can be used as a paleothermometer. If analogous processes influence Li/Mg ratios within otoliths, the data suggest that the bottom water at the South Cape Romain site is colder than other locations along the South Carolina shelf, perhaps as a result of locally enhanced upwelling. Additional samples from NC, SC, GA, and FL are being examined to see if other sites within the South Atlantic Bight show similar patterns. Montagna, P., McCulloch, M., Douville, E., et al. 2014. Li/Mg systematics in scleratinian corals: Calibration of the thermometer. Geochim Cosmochim Acta 132: 288-310.

A note on the correlation between rainfall and the prevalence of Gnathostoma spp. infective stage larvae in swamp eels in Thailand.

PubMed

Wiwanitkit, V

2004-12-01

Gnathostoma spinigerum is the major causative agent of human gnathostomiasis, a parasitic zoonosis with a great variety of clinical manifestations. Generally, humans are infected by consumption of third-stage larvae (L3) of G. spinigerum in infected hosts in the form of partially cooked or uncooked food. Surveys of the contamination of Gnathostoma spp. L3 in swamp eels are useful for prevention and control of diseases and have been continuously performed in Thailand. The author performed a retrospective study on 33 previous cross-sectional surveys with geographical data and the prevalence of Gnathostoma spp. L3 that covered 12 provinces in Thailand. The relation between rainfall (derived from the geographical data) and the prevalence of Gnathostomo spp. L3 in swamp eels (derived from the overall infection rate of Gnathostoma spp. L3) was investigated. The least-square equation plot rainfall (y) versus prevalence (x) is y= 9.68x + 1,035.12 (r = 0.83; p < 0.01). A significant correlation was discerned between rainfall and the prevalence of eel infection but not for the season of the survey. Similar to the previous study, the prevalence of eel infection may depend on rainfall rather than season. However, this study focused on only 33 cross-sectional surveys in Thailand; further similar study in other countries to assess the correlation between rainfall and the prevalence of infection is required to substantiate this conclusion.

Geographic variation in the assemblages of leptocephali in the western South Pacific

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, Michael J.; Aoyama, Jun; Mochioka, Noritaka; Otake, Tsuguo; Castle, Peter H. J.; Minagawa, Gen; Inagaki, Tadashi; Tsukamoto, Katsumi

2006-05-01

A sampling survey was carried out to study the distribution and ecology of leptocephali in several different areas of the western South Pacific between 160 and 175°E during August and September of 1995. The survey included transects of stations across the westward flowing South Equatorial Current (SEC) region to the northwest of Fiji and south to 30°S, a transect to the north of the Tasman Front, and a transect that passed through the Solomon Islands. A total of 2362 leptocephali of at least 94 species of 13 families of eels and other elopomorph fishes were collected. The most abundant leptocephali in the region were of the marine eel families Serrivomeridae, Congridae, Nemichthyidae, and Muraenidae of the order Anguilliformes. The leptocephali of shallow water eels of the Chlopsidae, Moringuidae, Muraenidae, and Ophichthidae were most abundant and present at a wide size range in the low salinity "Fresh Pool", which is also located closest to the major islands in the SEC region. Anguillid leptocephali were also most abundant in the SEC region and several species appeared to be spawning at that latitude. Cluster analysis and ordination of the catch rates of leptocephali suggested there were four regional assemblages related to the offshore spawning of mesopelagic serrivomerid eels, the presence of anguillid leptocephali in the SEC region and the relationship between the regional ocean current patterns and the geography of islands where shallow water marine eels live and probably spawn nearby. More impoverished assemblages were found in the southern regions where there are fewer islands, colder, higher salinity surface waters, and predominantly eastward flow. These findings support the hypothesis that various taxa of anguillid and marine eels use different spawning and recruitment strategies in the western South Pacific region as has been suggested by studies on leptocephali in the Northern Hemisphere.

Effects of environmental cocaine concentrations on the skeletal muscle of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla).

PubMed

Capaldo, Anna; Gay, Flaminia; Lepretti, Marilena; Paolella, Gaetana; Martucciello, Stefania; Lionetti, Lillà; Caputo, Ivana; Laforgia, Vincenza

2018-06-04

The presence of illicit drugs in the aquatic environment represents a new potential risk for aquatic organisms, due to their constant exposure to substances with strong pharmacological activity. Currently, little is known about the ecological effects of illicit drugs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of environmental concentrations of cocaine, an illicit drug widespread in surface waters, on the skeletal muscle of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla). The skeletal muscle of silver eels exposed to 20 ng L -1 of cocaine for 50 days were compared to control, vehicle control and two post-exposure recovery groups (3 and 10 days after interruption of cocaine). The eels general health, the morphology of the skeletal muscle and several parameters indicative of the skeletal muscle physiology were evaluated, namely the muscle whole protein profile, marker of the expression levels of the main muscle proteins; cytochrome oxidase activity, markers of oxidative metabolism; caspase-3, marker of apoptosis activation; serum levels of creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase, markers of skeletal muscle damages. Cocaine-exposed eels appeared hyperactive but they showed the same general health status as the other groups. In contrast, their skeletal muscle showed evidence of serious injury, including muscle breakdown and swelling, similar to that typical of rhabdomyolysis. These changes were still present 10 days after the interruption of cocaine exposure. In fact, with the exception of the expression levels of the main muscle proteins, which remained unchanged, all the other parameters examined showed alterations that persisted for at least 10 days after the interruption of cocaine exposure. This study shows that even low environmental concentrations of cocaine cause severe damage to the morphology and physiology of the skeletal muscle of the silver eel, confirming the harmful impact of cocaine in the environment that potentially affects the survival of this species. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

The ethanol extract of Leonurus sibiricus L. induces antioxidant, antinociceptive and topical anti-inflammatory effects.

PubMed

Oliveira, Alan Santos; Cercato, Luana Mendonça; de Santana Souza, Marília Trindade; Melo, Allan John de Oliveira; Lima, Bruno Dos Santos; Duarte, Marcelo Cavalcante; Araujo, Adriano Antunes de Souza; de Oliveira E Silva, Ana Mara; Camargo, Enilton Aparecido

2017-07-12

Leonurus sibiricus L. (Lamiaceae), popularly known as motherwort, or "erva-de-macaé" or "rubim" in Brazil, is a plant used for the treatment of inflammatory conditions, but few studies have evaluated this anti-inflammatory activity or other activities that may be relevant. This study was undertaken to investigate the antioxidant, antinociceptive and topical anti-inflammatory effects of the ethanol extract of L. sibiricus (EELs). Chromatographic analysis, determination of total phenolic and flavonoid contents and in vitro antioxidant assays were performed, while the formalin test and ear inflammation induced by 12-0-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA) were performed in mice. We observed that total phenolic and flavonoids content in EELs were respectively 60.1mg of gallic acid equivalent/g of extract and 15.4mg of catechin equivalent/g of extract. Chlorogenic, caffeic, p-coumaric and ferulic acids, as well as quercetin were identified in EELs. This extract also led to the consumption of the radicals 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) and nitric oxide, increased the ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) and inhibited the spontaneous or FeSO 4 -induced in vitro lipid peroxidation. In the formalin test, oral pretreatment with EELs (400mg/kg) reduced (p<0.001) the licking/biting time in the second phase, but not in the first phase. In the ear inflammation induced by TPA, the concomitant topical administration of EELs (0.3-3mg/ear) significantly reduced the edema, myeloperoxidase activity, levels of tumoral necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1β and lipoperoxidation, as well as increased FRAP in ear tissue when compared to vehicle-treated ears. These results indicate that EELs has antioxidant, antinociceptive and topical anti-inflammatory activities, supporting the use of this plant in folk medicine. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

76 FR 60431 - Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; 90-Day Finding on a Petition To List the American...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-09-29

... SST that affect primary productivity; (b) Quantitative research on the food of eel larvae and the... 4967, p. 4996). The Service suggested that ``future research should focus on: The effects of... ``While it is possible that some eels spend their entire life cycle in salt water, oceanic research...

The experiments of Ramón M. Termeyer SJ on the electric eel in the River Plate region (c. 1760) and other early accounts of Electrophorus electricus.

PubMed

de Asúa, Miguel

2008-01-01

This paper focuses on Ramón M. Termeyer SJ (1737-1814?), a naturalist who experimented with the electric eel in the River Plate region during the 1760s. After going through an enumeration of the chroniclers that since the sixteenth century noticed the benumbing discharge of Electrophorus electricus, the article summarizes the work that immediately preceded Termeyer's and considers as a term of comparison the experiments on the electric eel performed by Bertrand Bajon (fl. 1751-1778) in the French Guyanne. It ends by discussing the meaning of Termeyer's 1781 and 1810 articles in the light of contemporary ideas of animal electricity.

Compressive Classification for TEM-EELS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hao, Weituo; Stevens, Andrew; Yang, Hao

Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) is typically conducted in STEM mode with a spectrometer, or in TEM mode with energy selction. These methods produce a 3D data set (x, y, energy). Some compressive sensing [1,2] and inpainting [3,4,5] approaches have been proposed for recovering a full set of spectra from compressed measurements. In many cases the final form of the spectral data is an elemental map (an image with channels corresponding to elements). This means that most of the collected data is unused or summarized. We propose a method to directly recover the elemental map with reduced dose and acquisitionmore » time. We have designed a new computational TEM sensor for compressive classification [6,7] of energy loss spectra called TEM-EELS.« less

Isolation of epidermal cells and cDNA cloning of TNF decoy receptor 3 of conger eel, Conger myriaster.

PubMed

Tsutsui, Shigeyuki; Yoshino, Yuko; Matsui, Saho; Nakamura, Osamu; Muramoto, Koji; Watanabe, Tasuku

2008-03-01

By using EDTA and a trypsin solution, we established a method for isolating the epidermal cells of the conger eel, Conger myriaster. We then identified TNF decoy receptor (DcR) cDNA in the species from a suppression subtractive hybridization library prepared from the epidermal cells stimulated with LPS. The full-length cDNA of conger TNF DcR (conDcR) consisted of 1479 base pairs, and the protein comprised 286 amino acid residues. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that conDcR was clustered into a DcR3 branch. ConDcR is likely to act as an important immune-regulating factor in inhibiting the apoptosis-inducing effect of TNF in the skin of conger eel.

Geology of Tompkins Hill gas field, Humboldt County, California

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Parker, J.

1988-03-01

The Tompkins Hill gas field, located in Humboldt County, California, is the only producing field in the Eel River basin. The field is an anticlinal flexure on the north limb of the Eel River syncline in the central onshore portion of the basin. The Tompkins Hill anticline is doubly plunging and trends east-west. Stratigraphic units present in the field include the Yager, Eel River, and Rio Dell Formations and Scotia Bluffs Sandstone. The Yager occurs below a major unconformity, and forms economic basement. Strata overlying the Eel River, Rio Dell, and Scotia Bluffs represent a progradational basin-fill sequence, including submarinemore » fan, slope, shelf, and littoral deposits. The primary productive interval in the field is within the middle of the Rio Dell and consists of interbedded fine sandstone and mudrock. Portions of the Eel River and upper Rio Dell Formations are also productive. The Tompkins Hill gas field was discovered by the Texas Company in 1937 with the drilling of Eureka 2 in Sec. 22, T3N, R1W. The play was probably based on outcrop mapping and the presence of gas seeps in the area. The primary trapping mechanism in the field is structural, although stratigraphy may have been a factor in constraining gas. To date, 39 producing wells have been drilled and 87.4 bcf of gas, consisting of 98% methane, has been produced. Very minor amounts of condensate are also produced. The source rocks for the gas are uncertain, but both the Yager Formation and strata of the lower Wildcat Group may have contributed.« less

LADES: a software for constructing and analyzing longitudinal designs in biomedical research.

PubMed

Vázquez-Alcocer, Alan; Garzón-Cortes, Daniel Ladislao; Sánchez-Casas, Rosa María

2014-01-01

One of the most important steps in biomedical longitudinal studies is choosing a good experimental design that can provide high accuracy in the analysis of results with a minimum sample size. Several methods for constructing efficient longitudinal designs have been developed based on power analysis and the statistical model used for analyzing the final results. However, development of this technology is not available to practitioners through user-friendly software. In this paper we introduce LADES (Longitudinal Analysis and Design of Experiments Software) as an alternative and easy-to-use tool for conducting longitudinal analysis and constructing efficient longitudinal designs. LADES incorporates methods for creating cost-efficient longitudinal designs, unequal longitudinal designs, and simple longitudinal designs. In addition, LADES includes different methods for analyzing longitudinal data such as linear mixed models, generalized estimating equations, among others. A study of European eels is reanalyzed in order to show LADES capabilities. Three treatments contained in three aquariums with five eels each were analyzed. Data were collected from 0 up to the 12th week post treatment for all the eels (complete design). The response under evaluation is sperm volume. A linear mixed model was fitted to the results using LADES. The complete design had a power of 88.7% using 15 eels. With LADES we propose the use of an unequal design with only 14 eels and 89.5% efficiency. LADES was developed as a powerful and simple tool to promote the use of statistical methods for analyzing and creating longitudinal experiments in biomedical research.

The Eel River, northwestern California; high sediment yields from a dynamic landscape

Treesearch

Thomas E. Lisle

1990-01-01

The Eel River draining the Coast Range of northwestern California has the highest recorded average suspended sediment yield per drainage area of any river of its size or larger unaffected by volcanic eruptions or active glaciers in the conterminous United States (1,720 t/km 2 yr from 9,390 km 2 ; Brown and Ritter, 1971).

EELS from organic crystalline materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brydson, R.; Eddleston, M. D.; Jones, W.; Seabourne, C. R.; Hondow, N.

2014-06-01

We report the use of the electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) for providing light element chemical composition information from organic, crystalline pharmaceutical materials including theophylline and paracetamol and discuss how this type of data can complement transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging and electron diffraction when investigating polymorphism. We also discuss the potential for the extraction of bonding information using electron loss near-edge structure (ELNES).

Room-temperature, solution-processable organic electron extraction layer for high-performance planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells

DOE PAGES

Kim, Jong H.; Chueh, Chu-Chen; Williams, Spencer T.; ...

2015-09-24

Here in this work, we describe a room-temperature, solution-processable organic electron extraction layer (EEL) for high-performance planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells (PHJ PVSCs). This EEL is composed of a bilayered fulleropyrrolidinium iodide (FPI)-polyethyleneimine (PEIE) and PC 61BM, which yields a promising power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 15.7% with insignificant hysteresis. We reveal that PC 61BM can serve as a surface modifier of FPI-PEIE to simultaneously facilitate the crystallization of perovskite and the charge extraction at FPI-PEIE/CH 3NH 3PbI 3 interface. Furthermore, the FPI-PEIE can also tune the work function of ITO and dope PC 61BM to promote the efficient electronmore » transport between ITO and PC 61BM. Based on the advantages of room-temperature processability and decent electrical property of FPI-PEIE/PC 61BM EEL, a high-performance flexible PVSC with a PCE ~10% is eventually demonstrated. Lastly, this study shows the potential of low-temperature processed organic EEL to replace transition metal oxide-based interlayers for highly printing compatible PVSCs with high-performance.« less

Study by AES, EELS Spectroscopy of electron Irradiation on InP and InPO4/InP in comparison with Monte Carlo simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lounis, Z.; Bouslama, M.; Hamaida, K.; Jardin, C.; Abdellaoui, A.; Ouerdane, A.; Ghaffour, M.; Berrouachedi, N.

2012-02-01

We give the great interest to characterise the InP and InPO4/InP submitted to electron beam irradiation owing to the Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES) associated to both methods Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS). The incident electron produces breaking of (In-P) chemical bonds. The electron beam even acts to stimulate oxidation of InP surface involving on the top layers. Other, the oxide InPO4 developed on InP does appear very sensitive to the irradiation due to electron beam shown by the monitoring of EELS spectra recorded versus the irradiated times of the surface. There appears a new oxide thought to be In2O3. We give the simulation methods Casino (Carlo simulation of electron trajectory in solids) for determination with accuracy the loss energy of backscattered electrons and compared with reports results have been obtained with EELS Spectroscopy. These techniques of spectroscopy alone do not be able to verify the affected depth during interaction process. So, using this simulation method, we determine the interaction of electrons in the matter.

Dr. Alexander Garden, a Linnaean in colonial America, and the saga of five "electric eels".

PubMed

Finger, Stanley

2010-01-01

Alexander Garden (1730-1791) was born in Scotland, where he trained in medicine before settling in South Carolina in 1752. With a passion for collecting and a love of nature, he sent specimens to Linnaeus and his associates in Europe. In 1774, Garden observed and conducted electrical experiments on some "eels" that had survived the trip from Surinam to Charleston. His detailed observations and reasons for believing they emit electricity were read before the Royal Society of London and subsequently published. He also advised the sea captain who owned the eels on how to preserve them and where to deliver their bodies if they died en route to London. Although they did die en route, John Hunter of the Royal Society was able to provide excellent descriptions of their electric organs because they were so well preserved. The sequence of events that followed led to other live eels surviving the voyage to London, where they were observed to spark in darkness in 1776. This was a critical piece of evidence in favor of fish electricity and eventually for the more revolutionary idea that even human nerves and muscles might function electrically.

Pressure and temperature interactions on aerobic metabolism in migrating silver eels: results in vitro.

PubMed

Scaion, D; Vettier, A; Sébert, P

2008-01-01

The European eel (Anguilla anguilla) migrates (6000 km) from European coast towards the supposed spawning area: the Sargasso Sea. This intensive and sustained swimming activity is performed without feeding and by using essentially red muscle i.e. aerobic metabolism. Temperature and hydrostatic pressure vary during migration and have known effects on energy metabolism, mainly on mitochondrial functioning. We raise the question about the existence of a pressure-temperature combination that optimizes energy metabolism. We have measured the maximal oxygen consumption (MO2) of red muscle fibres of silver eel (migrating stage) in a temperature range (5 to 25 degrees C) covering what can be reasonably expected during the migration. We have combined (random order) three temperatures (5, 15, 25 degrees C) with 5 different pressures steps from 0.1 to 10.1 MPa (corresponding to depths from surface to 1000 m). The results show that when an adequate temperature is chosen as a reference, pressure effects and pressure sensitivity depend on the temperature. Based on the fact that energy budget is limited in migrating eels, we consider that the best conditions are low temperature and high pressure.

Benchmarking the stability of human detergent-solubilised voltage-gated sodium channels for structural studies using eel as a reference

PubMed Central

Slowik, Daria; Henderson, Richard

2015-01-01

With the ultimate goal of detailed structural analysis of mammalian and particularly human voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs), we have investigated the relative stability of human and rat VGSCs and compared them with electric eel VGSC. We found that NaV1.3 from rat was the most stable after detergent solubilisation. The order of stability was rNaV1.3 > hNaV1.2 > hNaV1.1 > hNaV1.6 > hNaV1.3 > hNaV1.4. However, a comparison with the VGSC from Electrophorus electricus, which is most similar to NaV1.4, shows that the eel VGSC is considerably more stable in detergent than the human VGSCs examined. We conclude that current methods of structural analysis, such as single particle electron cryomicroscopy (cryoEM), may be most usefully targeted to eel VGSC or rNaV1.3, but that structural analysis on the full spectrum of VGSCs, by methods that require greater stability such as crystallisation and X-ray crystallography, will require further stabilisation of the channel. PMID:25838126

Spectrum image analysis tool - A flexible MATLAB solution to analyze EEL and CL spectrum images.

PubMed

Schmidt, Franz-Philipp; Hofer, Ferdinand; Krenn, Joachim R

2017-02-01

Spectrum imaging techniques, gaining simultaneously structural (image) and spectroscopic data, require appropriate and careful processing to extract information of the dataset. In this article we introduce a MATLAB based software that uses three dimensional data (EEL/CL spectrum image in dm3 format (Gatan Inc.'s DigitalMicrograph ® )) as input. A graphical user interface enables a fast and easy mapping of spectral dependent images and position dependent spectra. First, data processing such as background subtraction, deconvolution and denoising, second, multiple display options including an EEL/CL moviemaker and, third, the applicability on a large amount of data sets with a small work load makes this program an interesting tool to visualize otherwise hidden details. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Increasing Risk Factors for Imported and Domestic Gnathostomiasis in the United States.

PubMed

Diaz, James H

2015-01-01

Gnathostomiasis is a foodborne zoonotic helminthic infection, commonly described in Asia and Latin America, which may follow the consumption of raw fish, eels, amphibians, and reptiles infected with muscle-encysted larvae of Gnathostoma species nematodes. After an inoculum of as little as one infective larva and an incubation period of months to years, most infections are characterized by intermittent migratory swellings due to subdermal larval migration. Less commonly, larval migration to the central nervous system may result in radiculomyelopathy or eosinophilic meningoencephalitis with high fatality rates; or larval migration to the eye with resulting blindness in untreated cases. Since the US now supports a zoonosis of Gnathostoma species with infective larvae encysted in imported and domestic fish and eels that may be consumed raw as exotic ethnic dishes, the objectives of this review were to describe the biology and life cycle of Gnathostoma nematodes and the behavioral risk factors for gnathostomiasis; and to describe the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, management, and prevention of human gnathostomiasis. Since the eradication of gnathostomiasis is very unlikely given the global distribution of Gnathostoma nematodes and the increasingly exotic culinary tastes of US residents and travelers to endemic regions, the only effective strategies for gnathostomiasis include: (1) educating citizens in the US and travelers abroad in endemic areas that fish, eels, frogs, snakes, and chicken must be cooked thoroughly first and not eaten raw or marinated; and (2) seeking medical care immediately for evaluation of migratory subcutaneous swellings. The combination of international travel and increased immigration from Asia and Latin America to the US has resulted in greater popularity of exotic ethnic cuisine, especially raw seafood dishes. The ethnic cuisine industry is supported by domestic aquaculture that produces fish-farmed tilapia and trout, and by increased importation of live freshwater species, such as Asian swamp eels (Monopterus spp.).1 Although raw seafood dishes are typically prepared with saltwater species, freshwater species, which harbor more parasites, are also used in these dishes, such as limejuice marinated tilapia or trout ceviche and eel-sashimi and sushi.2 In 2014, biologists from the US Geological Survey detected Gnathostoma species infective-stage larvae in nearly 30 percent of imported Monopterus species Asian swamp eels and in 4.5 percent of locally-caught Monopterus species freshwater swamp eels in three states.1 The investigators concluded that consumption of imported swamp eels from Gnathostoma-endemic regions of Asia could transmit gnathostomiasis to humans in the US.1 In addition, the release of live imported swamp eels or the disposal of their offal after filleting has introduced more Gnathostoma larvae into open and fish-farmed freshwaters infecting more native species.1 Since the US has all of the components to support Gnathostoma's life cycle, a zoonosis of infective Gnathostoma species, such as G. spinigerum and others, has become established in the US and will increase the risks of gnathostomiasis in humans consuming native, wildcaught, or farmed fish in ethnic dishes.1 As a result, the objectives of this review were to describe the biology and life cycle of Gnathostoma nematodes and the behavioral risk factors for gnathostomiasis; and to describe the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, management, and prevention of human gnathostomiasis.

[Cloning and expression analysis of two pro-inflammatory cytokines, IL-1β and its receptor, IL-1R2, in the Asian swamp eel Monopterus albus].

PubMed

Xu, Q Q; Xu, P; Zhou, J W; Pan, T S; Tuo, R; Ai, K; Yang, D Q

2016-01-01

Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) is the prototypic pro-inflammatory cytokine, whose functions are mediated through interaction with its receptors (IL-1R1 and IL-1R2). Herein, we cloned the full-length cDNA and genomic DNA of IL-1β and IL-1R2 in the Asian swamp eel (Monopterus albus). The eel IL-1β cDNA encodes a putative polypeptide of 246 amino acids. The protein sequence includes a typical IL-1 family signature, but lacked an interleukin-converting enzyme cleavage site. The genomic DNA of eel IL-1β was 2520 bp and comprised five exons and four introns. The eel IL-1R2 cDNA encoded a putative propeptide of 423 amino acid residues, comprising a signal peptide, a transmembrane region and two Ig-like domains in the extracellular region. Similar to other vertebrates, the genomic DNA of the eel IL-1R2 has nine exons and eight introns. Real-time PCR analysis indicated that IL-1β and IL-1R2 were constitutively expressed in all tissues, especially in the liver and immune-related organs. After infection with Aeromonas hydrophila, the transcript levels of IL-1β and IL-1R2 were induced in the head kidney and spleen, reaching their highest levels at 6 h post injection. In vitro, IL-1β and IL-1R2 mRNA levels were also upregulated rapidly at 1h post infection with A. hydrophila. Furthermore, acanthocephalan Pallisentis (Neosentis) celatus could induce the expression of both genes in the head kidney and intestine. In infected intestines, the transcript levels of IL-1β and IL-1R2 were increased by 21.4-fold and 20.8-fold, respectively, relative to the control. The present study indicated that IL-1β and IL-1R2 play an important role in inflammation and host defense, especially in the antiacanthocephalan response.

Functional Analysis of Promoter Region from Eel Cytochrome P450 1A1 Gene in Transgenic Medaka.

PubMed

Ogino; Itakura; Kato; Aoki; Sato

1999-07-01

: Transcription of the CYP1A1 genes in mammals and fish is stimulated by polyaromatic hydrocarbons. DNA sequencing analysis revealed that CYP1A1 gene in eel (Anguilla japonica) contains two kinds of putative cis-acting regulatory elements, XRE (xenobiotic-responsive element) and ERE (estrogen-responsive element). XRE is known as the enhancer that is responsible for the inducibility of the genes of CYP1A1 and some other drug-metabolizing enzymes. In the eel CYP1A1 gene, XRE motifs are distributed as follows: five times in the region from -2136 to -1125 bp, XRE(-6) to (-2); once in the proximal basal promoter region, XRE(-1); and once in the first intron, XRE(+1). The region between XRE(-2) and XRE(-1) contains three ERE motifs. To investigate the function of the cis-acting regulatory elements in the eel CYP1A1 gene, recombinant plasmids prepared with its 5' upstream sequence and the structural gene for luciferase were microinjected into fertilized eggs of medaka at the one-cell stage. Hatched fry were treated with 3-methylcholanthrene, and the transcription efficiency was assayed using competitive polymerase chain reaction analysis. Deletion of the region containing the five XREs, XRE(-6) to XRE(-2), and the point mutation of XRE(-1) reduced the inducible expressions by 75% and 56%, respectively, showing apparent dependency of the drug induction on the XREs. Constitutive expression, however, was not significantly affected by deletion or disruption of the XREs. When the region between XRE(-2) and XRE(-1) containing no XREs but three ERE motifs was internally deleted, the inducible expression and the constitutive expression were reduced by 88% and 75%, respectively. Replacement of this region with a partial fragment of eel CYP1A1 complementary DNA, with slight alteration of the distance between the five XREs and XRE(-1), reduced the inducible expression and the constitutive expression by 91% and 60%, respectively. These results strongly suggest that not only XRE but also other regulatory elements, possibly ERE, play an important role in induced and constitutive expressions of the eel CYP1A1 gene.

Is there a Stobbs factor in atomic-resolution STEM-EELS mapping?

PubMed

Xin, Huolin L; Dwyer, Christian; Muller, David A

2014-04-01

Recent work has convincingly argued that the Stobbs factor-disagreement in contrast between simulated and experimental atomic-resolution images-in ADF-STEM imaging can be accounted for by including the incoherent source size in simulation. However, less progress has been made for atomic-resolution STEM-EELS mapping. Here we have performed carefully calibrated EELS mapping experiments of a [101] DyScO3 single-crystal specimen, allowing atomic-resolution EELS signals to be extracted on an absolute scale for a large range of thicknesses. By simultaneously recording the elastic signal, also on an absolute scale, and using it to characterize the source size, sample thickness and inelastic mean free path, we eliminate all free parameters in the simulation of the core-loss signals. Coupled with double channeling simulations that incorporate both core-loss inelastic scattering and dynamical elastic and thermal diffuse scattering, the present work enables a close scrutiny of the scattering physics in the inelastic channel. We found that by taking into account the effective source distribution determined from the ADF images, both the absolute signal and the contrast in atomic-resolution Dy-M5 maps can be closely reproduced by the double-channeling simulations. At lower energy losses, discrepancies are present in the Sc-L2,3 and Dy-N4,5 maps due to the energy-dependent spatial distribution of the background spectrum, core-hole effects, and omitted complexities in the final states. This work has demonstrated the possibility of using quantitative STEM-EELS for element-specific column-by-column atom counting at higher energy losses and for atomic-like final states, and has elucidated several possible improvements for future theoretical work. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Characterization and differential expression patterns of conserved microRNAs and mRNAs in three genders of the rice field eel (Monopterus albus).

PubMed

Gao, Yu; Guo, Wei; Hu, Qing; Zou, Ming; Tang, Rong; Chi, Wei; Li, Dapeng

2014-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are endogenous small RNAs that can regulate target mRNAs by binding to their sequences in the 3' untranslated region. The expression of miRNAs and their biogenetic pathway are involved in sexual differentiation and in the regulation of the development of germ cells and gonadal somatic cells. The rice field eel (Monopterus albus) undergoes a natural sexual transformation from female to male via an intersex stage during its life cycle. To investigate the molecular mechanisms of this sexual transformation, miRNAs present in the different sexual stages of the rice field eel were identified by high-throughput sequencing technology. A significantly differential expression among the 3 genders (p < 0.001) was observed for 48 unique miRNAs and 3 miRNAs*. Only 9 unique miRNAs showed a more than 8-fold change in their expression among the 3 genders, including mal-miR-430a and mal-miR-430c which were higher in females than in males. However, mal-miR-430b was only detected in males. Several potential miRNA target genes (cyp19a, cyp19b, nr5a1b, foxl2 amh, and vasa) were also investigated. Real-time RT-PCR demonstrated highly specific expression patterns of these genes in the 3 genders of the rice field eel. Many of these genes are targets of mal-miR-430b according to the TargetScan and miRTarBase. These results suggest that the miR-430 family may be involved in the sexual transformation of the rice field eel. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Myo-inositol phosphate synthase expression in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): effect of seawater acclimation.

PubMed

Kalujnaia, Svetlana; Hazon, Neil; Cramb, Gordon

2016-08-01

A single MIPS gene (Isyna1/Ino1) exists in eel and tilapia genomes with a single myo-d-inositol 3-phosphate synthase (MIPS) transcript identified in all eel tissues, although two MIPS spliced variants [termed MIPS(s) and MIPS(l)] are found in all tilapia tissues. The larger tilapia transcript [MIPS(l)] results from the inclusion of the 87-nucleotide intron between exons 5 and 6 in the genomic sequence. In most tilapia tissues, the MIPS(s) transcript exhibits much higher abundance (generally >10-fold) with the exception of white skeletal muscle and oocytes, in which the MIPS(l) transcript predominates. SW acclimation resulted in large (6- to 32-fold) increases in mRNA expression for both MIPS(s) and MIPS(l) in all tilapia tissues tested, whereas in the eel, changes in expression were limited to a more modest 2.5-fold increase and only in the kidney. Western blots identified a number of species- and tissue-specific immunoreactive MIPS proteins ranging from 40 to 67 kDa molecular weight. SW acclimation failed to affect the abundance of any immunoreactive protein in any tissue tested from the eel. However, a major 67-kDa immunoreactive protein (presumed to be MIPS) found in tilapia tissues exhibited 11- and 54-fold increases in expression in gill and fin samples from SW-acclimated fish. Immunohistochemical investigations revealed specific immunoreactivity in the gill, fin, skin, and intestine taken from only SW-acclimated tilapia. Immunofluorescence indicated that MIPS was expressed within gill chondrocytes and epithelial cells of the primary filaments, basal epithelial cell layers of the skin and fin, the cytosol of columnar intestinal epithelial and mucous cells, as well as unknown entero-endocrine-like cells. Copyright © 2016 the American Physiological Society.

Myo-inositol phosphate synthase expression in the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus): effect of seawater acclimation

PubMed Central

Kalujnaia, Svetlana; Hazon, Neil

2016-01-01

A single MIPS gene (Isyna1/Ino1) exists in eel and tilapia genomes with a single myo-d-inositol 3-phosphate synthase (MIPS) transcript identified in all eel tissues, although two MIPS spliced variants [termed MIPS(s) and MIPS(l)] are found in all tilapia tissues. The larger tilapia transcript [MIPS(l)] results from the inclusion of the 87-nucleotide intron between exons 5 and 6 in the genomic sequence. In most tilapia tissues, the MIPS(s) transcript exhibits much higher abundance (generally >10-fold) with the exception of white skeletal muscle and oocytes, in which the MIPS(l) transcript predominates. SW acclimation resulted in large (6- to 32-fold) increases in mRNA expression for both MIPS(s) and MIPS(l) in all tilapia tissues tested, whereas in the eel, changes in expression were limited to a more modest 2.5-fold increase and only in the kidney. Western blots identified a number of species- and tissue-specific immunoreactive MIPS proteins ranging from 40 to 67 kDa molecular weight. SW acclimation failed to affect the abundance of any immunoreactive protein in any tissue tested from the eel. However, a major 67-kDa immunoreactive protein (presumed to be MIPS) found in tilapia tissues exhibited 11- and 54-fold increases in expression in gill and fin samples from SW-acclimated fish. Immunohistochemical investigations revealed specific immunoreactivity in the gill, fin, skin, and intestine taken from only SW-acclimated tilapia. Immunofluorescence indicated that MIPS was expressed within gill chondrocytes and epithelial cells of the primary filaments, basal epithelial cell layers of the skin and fin, the cytosol of columnar intestinal epithelial and mucous cells, as well as unknown entero-endocrine-like cells. PMID:27252471

Genetic diversity in a morphologically conservative invasive taxon: Multiple introductions of swamp eels to the southeastern United States

USGS Publications Warehouse

Collins, T.M.; Trexler, J.C.; Nico, L.G.; Rawlings, T.A.

2002-01-01

Genetic analysis of introduced populations, especially in morphologically conservative taxa, can clarify introduction histories, identify management units and source populations, provide a more realistic estimate of the frequency of successful invasion, and suggest strategies for preventing further introductions. In the last 7 years, populations of swamp eels, referred to the Asian genus Monopterus (Family Synbranchidae) on the basis of external morphology, have been discovered in aquatic habitats near Atlanta, Georgia; Tampa, Florida; North Miami, Florida; and most recently in close proximity to Everglades National Park in Homestead, Florida. Swamp eels are large predators capable of dispersal over land and have the potential to disrupt already threatened ecosystems. We analyzed mitochondrial DNA sequences from four known populations in the continental United States and samples from Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and two locations in China to determine introduction histories, source populations, genetic diversity, and relationships among populations. Our results indicate that there have been at least three independent introductions of genetically distinct forms. Introduced populations in close proximity (separated by <40 km) are genetically distinct. The level of sequence difference among introduced populations reaches levels seen among sister families of teleost fishes for the same region of the mitochondrial genome. These genetically distinct introduced populations in all likelihood represent at least two and possibly three species. Regardless of species status, these genetically distinct lineages may be expected to vary in ecological or life-history traits, representing different potential threats to the ecosystems where they have been introduced. Given the success of swamp eels in invading many habitats around the world, further study of these eels is warranted to elucidate the characteristics of successful invaders and invasions.

The effect of earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus) in feed formulation on growth and retention of eel (Anguilla bicolor)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jatmiko, P. C.; Madinah, N. A.; Agustono; Nurhajati, T.

2018-04-01

Earthworms (Lumbricus rubellus) has high protein content. The addition of earthworms in formulation feed not only can increase the appetite of eel but also increase the nutritional content in feed. The purpose of this research was to know the potention of earthworms L. rubellus in feed formulation that can gives increase on the growth and retention. Research’s method was using Complete Randomized Design (CRD) consisted of five treatments and four replication. Treatments in this research ware the different addition of earthworms L. rubellus in feed formulation which were 0 %, 25 %, 50 %, 75 % and 100 %. The result showed that there were significantly different on the growth and retention of eel during maintenance for 21 days. the best result was on the 100% of earthworms L.rubellus addition.

How Dark Are Radial Breathing Modes in Plasmonic Nanodisks?

PubMed

Schmidt, Franz-Philipp; Losquin, Arthur; Hofer, Ferdinand; Hohenau, Andreas; Krenn, Joachim R; Kociak, Mathieu

2018-03-21

Due to a vanishing dipole moment, radial breathing modes in small flat plasmonic nanoparticles do not couple to light and have to be probed with a near-field source, as in electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). With increasing particle size, retardation gives rise to light coupling, enabling probing breathing modes optically or by cathodoluminescence (CL). Here, we investigate single silver nanodisks with diameters of 150-500 nm by EELS and CL in an electron microscope and quantify the EELS/CL ratio, which corresponds to the ratio of full to radiative damping of the breathing mode. For the investigated diameter range, we find the CL signal to increase by about 1 order of magnitude, in agreement with numerical simulations. Due to reciprocity, our findings corroborate former optical experiments and enable a quantitative understanding of the light coupling of dark plasmonic modes.

Alder Establishment and Channel Dynamics in a Tributary of the South Fork Eel River, Mendocino County, California

Treesearch

William J. Trush; Edward C. Connor; Knight Alan W.

1989-01-01

Riparian communities established along Elder Creek, a tributary of the upper South Fork Eel River, are bounded by two frequencies of periodic flooding. The upper limit for the riparian zone occurs at bankfull stage. The lower riparian limit is associated with a more frequent stage height, called the active channel, having an exceedance probability of 11 percent on a...

Diel and seasonal movements by adult Sacramento pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus grandis) in the Eel River, northwestern California

Treesearch

Bret C. Harvey; Rodney J. Nakamoto

1999-01-01

Abstract - In late summer and fall, radio-tagged adult Sacramento pike-minnow (Ptychocheilus grandis) at three sites in the Eel River of northwestern California moved more at night than during the day. Fish moved up to 535 m at night and returned to their original positions the following morning. Adult Sacramento pikeminnow at all sites occupied only pools during the...

[A fish prey found in the coral snake Micrurus alleni (Serpentes: Elapidae) in Costa Rica].

PubMed

Solórzano, Alejandro

2005-01-01

A fish prey found in the coral snake Micrurus alleni (Serpentes: Elapidae) in Costa Rica. The presence of a small specimen of the swamp eel Synbranchus marmoratus (84 mm total length) in the stomach contents of an adult coral snake Micrurus alleni with 692 mm total length from the Caribbean versant of Costa Rica is reported. This eel was swallowed headfirst.

Landslide-dammed paleolake perturbs marine sedimentation and drives genetic change in anadromous fish

PubMed Central

Mackey, Benjamin H.; Roering, Joshua J.; Lamb, Michael P.

2011-01-01

Large bedrock landslides have been shown to modulate rates and processes of river activity by forming dams, forcing upstream aggradation of water and sediment, and generating catastrophic outburst floods. Less apparent is the effect of large landslide dams on river ecosystems and marine sedimentation. Combining analyses of 1-m resolution topographic data (acquired via airborne laser mapping) and field investigation, we present evidence for a large, landslide-dammed paleolake along the Eel River, CA. The landslide mass initiated from a high-relief, resistant outcrop which failed catastrophically, blocking the Eel River with an approximately 130-m-tall dam. Support for the resulting 55-km-long, 1.3-km3 lake includes subtle shorelines cut into bounding terrain, deltas, and lacustrine sediments radiocarbon dated to 22.5 ka. The landslide provides an explanation for the recent genetic divergence of local anadromous (ocean-run) steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) by blocking their migration route and causing gene flow between summer run and winter run reproductive ecotypes. Further, the dam arrested the prodigious flux of sediment down the Eel River; this cessation is recorded in marine sedimentary deposits as a 10-fold reduction in deposition rates of Eel-derived sediment and constitutes a rare example of a terrestrial event transmitted through the dispersal system and recorded offshore. PMID:22084068

Interactions of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) with xenobiotic biotransformation system in European eel Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus, 1758).

PubMed

Della Torre, Camilla; Corsi, Ilaria; Arukwe, Augustine; Valoti, Massimo; Focardi, Silvano

2008-11-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the interaction of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) with liver biotransformation enzymes in European eel Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus, 1758). Eels were exposed to 0.5, 1 and 2.5mg/l nominal concentrations of TNT for 6 and 24h. Modulation of CYP1A1, UDPGT and GST genes was investigated by real-time PCR. Total CYP450 content, NADPH cytochrome c reductase activity, CYP1A and CYP2B-like activities, such as EROD, MROD and BROD, as well as GST and UDPGT activities, were measured by biochemical assays. An in vitro study was performed on EROD in order to evaluate catalytic modulation by TNT. No modulation of the CYP1A1 gene or protein was observed in TNT-exposed eels. On the other hand, a significant decline of EROD and MROD activities was observed in vivo. An increase in NADPH cyt c reductase, and phase II enzymes (UDPGT and GST) were observed at both gene expression and activity levels. The overall results indicated that TNT is a potential competitive inhibitor of CYP1A activities. A TNT metabolic pathway involving NADPH cyt c reductase and phase II enzymes is also suggested.

Landslide-dammed paleolake perturbs marine sedimentation and drives genetic change in anadromous fish.

PubMed

Mackey, Benjamin H; Roering, Joshua J; Lamb, Michael P

2011-11-22

Large bedrock landslides have been shown to modulate rates and processes of river activity by forming dams, forcing upstream aggradation of water and sediment, and generating catastrophic outburst floods. Less apparent is the effect of large landslide dams on river ecosystems and marine sedimentation. Combining analyses of 1-m resolution topographic data (acquired via airborne laser mapping) and field investigation, we present evidence for a large, landslide-dammed paleolake along the Eel River, CA. The landslide mass initiated from a high-relief, resistant outcrop which failed catastrophically, blocking the Eel River with an approximately 130-m-tall dam. Support for the resulting 55-km-long, 1.3-km(3) lake includes subtle shorelines cut into bounding terrain, deltas, and lacustrine sediments radiocarbon dated to 22.5 ka. The landslide provides an explanation for the recent genetic divergence of local anadromous (ocean-run) steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) by blocking their migration route and causing gene flow between summer run and winter run reproductive ecotypes. Further, the dam arrested the prodigious flux of sediment down the Eel River; this cessation is recorded in marine sedimentary deposits as a 10-fold reduction in deposition rates of Eel-derived sediment and constitutes a rare example of a terrestrial event transmitted through the dispersal system and recorded offshore.

Anguilla rostrata glass eel migration and recruitment in the estuary and Gulf of St Lawrence.

PubMed

Dutil, J-D; Dumont, P; Cairns, D K; Galbraith, P S; Verreault, G; Castonguay, M; Proulx, S

2009-06-01

This study describes catches of Anguilla rostrata glass eels and associated oceanographic conditions in the St Lawrence Estuary and Gulf. Ichthyoplankton survey data suggest that they enter the Gulf primarily in May, migrate at the surface at night, and disperse broadly once they have passed Cabot Strait. They arrive in estuaries beginning at about mid-June and through the month of July. Migration extends west up to Québec City, in the freshwater zone of the St Lawrence Estuary, 1000 km west of Cabot Strait. Anguilla rostrata glass eels travel between Cabot Strait and receiving estuaries at a straight-line ground speed of c. 10-15 km day(-1). Catches of fish per unit effort in estuaries in the St Lawrence system are much lower than those reported for the Atlantic coast of Canada. Low abundance of A. rostrata glass eels in the St Lawrence system may be due to cold surface temperatures during the migration period which decrease swimming capacity, long distances from the spawning ground to Cabot Strait and from Cabot Strait to the destination waters (especially the St Lawrence River), complex circulation patterns, and hypoxic conditions in bottom waters of the Laurentian Channel and the St Lawrence Estuary.

EELS Valence Mapping in Electron Beam Sensitive FeFx/C Nanocomposites

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cosandey, F.; Al-Sharab, J.F.; Amatucci, Glenn G.

A new type of positive electrodes for Li-Ion batteries has been synthesized based on FeF{sub 2}/C and FeF3/C nanocomposites with particle size in the 8-12 nm range [1]. The measured high capacities rely on a complete reduction of Fe to its metallic state according to the following reaction: xLi{sup +}+xe{sup -} +Fe{sup x+}Fx = xLiF + Fe{sup 0}, where x=3 and x=2 for FeF3/C and FeF2/C respectively. This electrochemical reaction involves a change in valence state of Fe from 3+ or 2+ to 0 that can be determined uniquely by EELS from the peak energy of the L{sub 3} linemore » and from the L{sub 3}/L{sub 2} line intensity ratio. In this paper, we report EELS mapping results on the electrochemical conversion processes and in particular the mapping of the Fe valence state before and after discharge. This work was performed with a Hitachi HF2000 equipped with a Gatan PEELS and with a FEI CM200 FEG TEM equipped with a Gatan GIF. Both instruments were operated in STEM mode at 200kV with an EELS collection half angle of {beta}=5 mrad and spectrum imaging software.« less

Protein transduction domain of transactivating transcriptional activator fused to outer membrane protein K of Vibrio parahaemolyticus to vaccinate marbled eels (Anguilla marmorata) confers protection against mortality caused by V. parahaemolyticus.

PubMed

Wang, Hang; Yang, Wei; Shen, Guoying; Zhang, Jianting; Lv, Wei; Ji, Binfeng; Meng, Chun

2015-07-01

Although immersion and oral vaccination are the most practical methods for fish farmers, their applications are very limited due to low immune stimulation effect. We used the protein transduction domain (PTD) of transactivating transcriptional factor (TAT) derived from HIV TAT protein to increase the delivery efficiency of aquatic protein vaccines. Vibrio parahaemolyticus outer membrane protein K (ompK), a reported vaccine candidate for the prevention of V. parahaemolyticus infection, was fused with TAT-PTD expressed in Escherichia coli. We found that PTD-ompK fusion protein effectively penetrated into marbled eel bodies. Analysis of ompK antibody titres demonstrated that immersion vaccination with PTD-ompK was superior to ompK alone and induced robust immune stimulation in marbled eels. Both active and passive protection analyses against immersive challenge with V. parahaemolyticus strains demonstrated that marbled eels immunized with PTD-ompK survived significantly longer than those immunized with ompK alone. Our results indicated that TAT-PTD could be served as is an efficient delivery system for aquatic immersion vaccinations against various infectious diseases commonly seen in aquatic farm industry. © 2015 The Authors. Microbial Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd and Society for Applied Microbiology.

Capture of cell culture-derived influenza virus by lectins: strain independent, but host cell dependent.

PubMed

Opitz, Lars; Zimmermann, Anke; Lehmann, Sylvia; Genzel, Yvonne; Lübben, Holger; Reichl, Udo; Wolff, Michael W

2008-12-01

Strategies to control influenza outbreaks are focused mainly on prophylactic vaccination. Human influenza vaccines are trivalent blends of different virus subtypes. Therefore and due to frequent antigenic drifts, strain independent manufacturing processes are required for vaccine production. This study verifies the strain independency of a capture method based on Euonymus europaeus lectin-affinity chromatography (EEL-AC) for downstream processing of influenza viruses under various culture conditions propagated in MDCK cells. A comprehensive lectin binding screening was conducted for two influenza virus types from the season 2007/2008 (A/Wisconsin/67/2005, B/Malaysia/2506/2004) including a comparison of virus-lectin interaction by surface plasmon resonance technology. EEL-AC resulted in a reproducible high product recovery rate and a high degree of contaminant removal in the case of both MDCK cell-derived influenza virus types demonstrating clearly the general applicability of EEL-AC. In addition, host cell dependency of EEL-AC was studied with two industrial relevant cell lines: Vero and MDCK cells. However, the choice of the host cell lines is known to lead to different product glycosylation profiles. Hence, altered lectin specificities have been observed between the two cell lines, requiring process adaptations between different influenza vaccine production systems.

An extreme events laboratory to provide network centric collaborative situation assessment and decision making

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Panulla, Brian J.; More, Loretta D.; Shumaker, Wade R.; Jones, Michael D.; Hooper, Robert; Vernon, Jeffrey M.; Aungst, Stanley G.

2009-05-01

Rapid improvements in communications infrastructure and sophistication of commercial hand-held devices provide a major new source of information for assessing extreme situations such as environmental crises. In particular, ad hoc collections of humans can act as "soft sensors" to augment data collected by traditional sensors in a net-centric environment (in effect, "crowd-sourcing" observational data). A need exists to understand how to task such soft sensors, characterize their performance and fuse the data with traditional data sources. In order to quantitatively study such situations, as well as study distributed decision-making, we have developed an Extreme Events Laboratory (EEL) at The Pennsylvania State University. This facility provides a network-centric, collaborative situation assessment and decision-making capability by supporting experiments involving human observers, distributed decision making and cognition, and crisis management. The EEL spans the information chain from energy detection via sensors, human observations, signal and image processing, pattern recognition, statistical estimation, multi-sensor data fusion, visualization and analytics, and modeling and simulation. The EEL command center combines COTS and custom collaboration tools in innovative ways, providing capabilities such as geo-spatial visualization and dynamic mash-ups of multiple data sources. This paper describes the EEL and several on-going human-in-the-loop experiments aimed at understanding the new collective observation and analysis landscape.

Development and validation of a real-time PCR assay for the detection of anguillid herpesvirus 1.

PubMed

van Beurden, S J; Voorbergen-Laarman, M A; Roozenburg, I; van Tellingen, J; Haenen, O L M; Engelsma, M Y

2016-01-01

Anguillid herpesvirus 1 (AngHV1) causes a haemorrhagic disease with increased mortality in wild and farmed European eel, Anguilla anguilla (L.) and Japanese eel Anguilla japonica, Temminck & Schlegel). Detection of AngHV1 is currently based on virus isolation in cell culture, antibody-based typing assays or conventional PCR. We developed, optimized and concisely validated a diagnostic TaqMan probe based real-time PCR assay for the detection of AngHV1. The primers and probe target AngHV1 open reading frame 57, encoding the capsid protease and scaffold protein. Compared to conventional PCR, the developed real-time PCR is faster, less labour-intensive and has a reduced risk of cross-contamination. The real-time PCR assay was shown to be analytically sensitive and specific and has a high repeatability, efficiency and r(2) -value. The diagnostic performance of the assay was determined by testing 10% w/v organ suspensions and virus cultures from wild and farmed European eels from the Netherlands by conventional and real-time PCR. The developed real-time PCR assay is a useful tool for the rapid and sensitive detection of AngHV1 in 10% w/v organ suspensions from wild and farmed European eels. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

First observations of fertilized eggs and preleptocephalus larvae of Rhinomuraena quaesita in the Vienna Zoo.

PubMed

Preininger, D; Halbauer, R; Bartsch, V; Weissenbacher, A

2015-01-01

For the first time worldwide, fertilized eggs of ribbon eels (Rhinomuraena quaesita) hatched into feeding preleptocephali and could be kept alive for a period of seven days in the Vienna Zoo. The study reports on husbandry, behavioral observations and dimensions of eggs and preleptocephalus larvae. Furthermore, body color variations of ribbon eels in captivity do not reflect its sex or sexual maturity. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Identification of gonadal soma-derived factor involvement in Monopterus albus (protogynous rice field eel) sex change.

PubMed

Zhu, Yefei; Wang, Chunlei; Chen, Xiaowu; Guan, Guijun

2016-07-01

We studied molecular events and potential mechanisms underlying the process of female-to-male sex transformation in the rice field eel (Monopterus albus), a protogynous hermaphrodite fish in which the gonad is initially a female ovary and transforms into male testes. We cloned and identified a novel gonadal soma derived factor (GSDF), which encodes a member of the transforming growth factor-beta superfamily. gsdf expression was measured in gonads of female, intersex and male with reverse transcription-PCR and gsdf's role in sex transformation was studied with qPCR, histological analysis and dual-color in situ hybridization assays and compared to other sex-related genes. gsdf was correlated to Sertoli cell differentiation, indicating involvement in testicular differentiation and sex transformation from female to male in this species. A unique expression pattern reveals a potential role of gsdf essential for the sex transformation of rice field eels.

How Dark Are Radial Breathing Modes in Plasmonic Nanodisks?

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

Due to a vanishing dipole moment, radial breathing modes in small flat plasmonic nanoparticles do not couple to light and have to be probed with a near-field source, as in electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). With increasing particle size, retardation gives rise to light coupling, enabling probing breathing modes optically or by cathodoluminescence (CL). Here, we investigate single silver nanodisks with diameters of 150–500 nm by EELS and CL in an electron microscope and quantify the EELS/CL ratio, which corresponds to the ratio of full to radiative damping of the breathing mode. For the investigated diameter range, we find the CL signal to increase by about 1 order of magnitude, in agreement with numerical simulations. Due to reciprocity, our findings corroborate former optical experiments and enable a quantitative understanding of the light coupling of dark plasmonic modes. PMID:29607350

Bandgap profiling in CIGS solar cells via valence electron energy-loss spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deitz, Julia I.; Karki, Shankar; Marsillac, Sylvain X.; Grassman, Tyler J.; McComb, David W.

2018-03-01

A robust, reproducible method for the extraction of relative bandgap trends from scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) based electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) is described. The effectiveness of the approach is demonstrated by profiling the bandgap through a CuIn1-xGaxSe2 solar cell that possesses intentional Ga/(In + Ga) composition variation. The EELS-determined bandgap profile is compared to the nominal profile calculated from compositional data collected via STEM-based energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The EELS based profile is found to closely track the calculated bandgap trends, with only a small, fixed offset difference. This method, which is particularly advantageous for relatively narrow bandgap materials and/or STEM systems with modest resolution capabilities (i.e., >100 meV), compromises absolute accuracy to provide a straightforward route for the correlation of local electronic structure trends with nanoscale chemical and physical structure/microstructure within semiconductor materials and devices.

Siderophore-mediated iron acquisition mechanisms in Vibrio vulnificus biotype 2.

PubMed Central

Biosca, E G; Fouz, B; Alcaide, E; Amaro, C

1996-01-01

Vibrio vulnificus biotype 2 is a primary pathogen for eels and, as has recently been suggested, an opportunistic pathogen for humans. In this study we have investigated the ability of V. vulnificus biotype 2 to obtain iron by siderophore-mediated mechanisms and evaluated the importance of free iron in vibriosis. The virulence degree for eels was dependent on iron availability from host fluids, as was revealed by a reduction in the 50% lethal dose for iron-overloaded eels. This biotype produced both phenolate- and hydroxamate-type siderophores of an unknown nature and two new outer membrane proteins of around 84 and 72 kDa in response to iron starvation. No alterations in lipopolysaccharide patterns were detected in response to iron stress. Finally, our data suggest that V. vulnificus biotype 2 uses the hydroxamate-type siderophore for removal of iron from transferrin rather than relying on a receptor for this iron-binding protein. PMID:8975620

Splashing transients of 2D plasmons launched by swift electrons

PubMed Central

Lin, Xiao; Kaminer, Ido; Shi, Xihang; Gao, Fei; Yang, Zhaoju; Gao, Zhen; Buljan, Hrvoje; Joannopoulos, John D.; Soljačić, Marin; Chen, Hongsheng; Zhang, Baile

2017-01-01

Launching of plasmons by swift electrons has long been used in electron energy–loss spectroscopy (EELS) to investigate the plasmonic properties of ultrathin, or two-dimensional (2D), electron systems. However, the question of how a swift electron generates plasmons in space and time has never been answered. We address this issue by calculating and demonstrating the spatial-temporal dynamics of 2D plasmon generation in graphene. We predict a jet-like rise of excessive charge concentration that delays the generation of 2D plasmons in EELS, exhibiting an analog to the hydrodynamic Rayleigh jet in a splashing phenomenon before the launching of ripples. The photon radiation, analogous to the splashing sound, accompanies the plasmon emission and can be understood as being shaken off by the Rayleigh jet–like charge concentration. Considering this newly revealed process, we argue that previous estimates on the yields of graphene plasmons in EELS need to be reevaluated. PMID:28138546

Fe and O EELS Studies of Ion Irradiated Murchison CM2 Carbonaceous Chondrite Matrix

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keller, L. P.; Christofferson, R.; Dukes, C. A.; Baragiola, R. A.; Rahman, Z.

2015-01-01

Introduction: The physical and chemical response of hydrated carbonaceous chondrite materials to space weathering processes is poorly understood. Improving this understanding is a key part of establishing how regoliths on primitive carbonaceous asteroids respond to space weathering processes, knowledge that supports future sample return missions (Hayabusa 2 and OSIRISREx) that are targeting objects of this type. We previously reported on He+ irradiation of Murchison matrix and showed that the irradiation resulted in amorphization of the matrix phyllosilicates, loss of OH, and surface vesiculation. Here, we report electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) measurements of the irradiated material with emphasis on the Fe and O speciation. Sample and Methods: A polished thin section of the Murchison CM2 carbonaceous chondrite was irradiated with 4 kilovolts He(+) (normal incidence) to a total dose of 1 x 10(exp 18) He(+) per square centimeter. We extracted thin sections from both irradiated and unirradiated regions in matrix using focused ion beam (FIB) techniques with electron beam deposition for the protective carbon strap to minimize surface damage artifacts from the FIB milling. The FIB sections were analyzed using a JEOL 2500SE scanning and transmission electron microscope (STEM) equipped with a Gatan Tridiem imaging filter. EELS spectra were collected from 50 nanometer diameter regions with an energy resolution of 0.7 electronvolts FWHM at the zero loss. EELS spectra were collected at low electron doses to minimize possible artifacts from electron-beam irradiation damage. Results and Discussion: Fe L (sub 2,3) EELS spectra from matrix phyllosilicates in CM chondrites show mixed Fe(2+)/Fe(3+) oxidation states with Fe(3+)/Sigma Fe approximately 0.5. Fe L(sub 2,3) spectra from the irradiated/ amorphized matrix phyllosilicates show higher Fe(2+)/Fe(3+) ratios compared to spectra obtained from pristine material at depths beyond the implantation/amorphization layer. We also obtained O Ka spectra from phyllosilicates in both regions of the sample. The O Ka spectra show a pre-edge feature at approximately 530.5 electronvolts that is related to O 2p states hybridized with Fe 3d states. The intensity ratio of the O Ka pre-edge peak relative to the main part of the O Ka edge (that results from transitions of O 1s to 2p states) is lower in the irradiated layer compared to the pristine material and may reflect the loss of O (as OH) as was observed by IR spectroscopy. Conclusions: In addition to amorphization and OH loss, EELS spectra of He(+) irradiated matrix phyllosilicates in Murchison show that some of the Fe(3+) is reduced to Fe(2+). Spectral deconvolution is underway to extract quantitative ratios from the EELS spectra.

Simulating electron energy loss spectroscopy with the MNPBEM toolbox

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hohenester, Ulrich

2014-03-01

Within the MNPBEM toolbox, we show how to simulate electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) of plasmonic nanoparticles using a boundary element method approach. The methodology underlying our approach closely follows the concepts developed by García de Abajo and coworkers (Garcia de Abajo, 2010). We introduce two classes eelsret and eelsstat that allow in combination with our recently developed MNPBEM toolbox for a simple, robust, and efficient computation of EEL spectra and maps. The classes are accompanied by a number of demo programs for EELS simulation of metallic nanospheres, nanodisks, and nanotriangles, and for electron trajectories passing by or penetrating through the metallic nanoparticles. We also discuss how to compute electric fields induced by the electron beam and cathodoluminescence. Catalogue identifier: AEKJ_v2_0 Program summary URL:http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/summaries/AEKJ_v2_0.html Program obtainable from: CPC Program Library, Queen’s University, Belfast, N. Ireland Licensing provisions: Standard CPC licence, http://cpc.cs.qub.ac.uk/licence/licence.html No. of lines in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 38886 No. of bytes in distributed program, including test data, etc.: 1222650 Distribution format: tar.gz Programming language: Matlab 7.11.0 (R2010b). Computer: Any which supports Matlab 7.11.0 (R2010b). Operating system: Any which supports Matlab 7.11.0 (R2010b). RAM:≥1 GB Classification: 18. Catalogue identifier of previous version: AEKJ_v1_0 Journal reference of previous version: Comput. Phys. Comm. 183 (2012) 370 External routines: MESH2D available at www.mathworks.com Does the new version supersede the previous version?: Yes Nature of problem: Simulation of electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) for plasmonic nanoparticles. Solution method: Boundary element method using electromagnetic potentials. Reasons for new version: The new version of the toolbox includes two additional classes for the simulation of electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) of plasmonic nanoparticles, and corrects a few minor bugs and inconsistencies. Summary of revisions: New classes “eelsstat” and “eelsret” for the simulation of electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) of plasmonic nanoparticles have been added. A few minor errors in the implementation of dipole excitation have been corrected. Running time: Depending on surface discretization between seconds and hours.

Probing plasmon resonances of individual aluminum nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Zhongxia; Mao, Peng; Cao, Lu; Song, Fengqi

2018-01-01

The plasmon resonances of individual aluminum nanoparticles are investigated by electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) in scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). Surface plasmon mode and bulk plasmon mode of Al nanoparticles are clearly characterized in the EEL spectra. Discrete dipole approximation (DDA) calculations show that as the particle diameter increases from 20 nm to 100 nm, the plasmon resonance shifts to lower energy and higher mode of surface plasmon arises when the diameter reaches 60 nm and larger.

The European Eel NCCβ Gene Encodes a Thiazide-resistant Na-Cl Cotransporter*

PubMed Central

Moreno, Erika; Plata, Consuelo; Rodríguez-Gama, Alejandro; Argaiz, Eduardo R.; Vázquez, Norma; Leyva-Ríos, Karla; Islas, León; Cutler, Christopher; Pacheco-Alvarez, Diana; Mercado, Adriana; Cariño-Cortés, Raquel; Castañeda-Bueno, María; Gamba, Gerardo

2016-01-01

The thiazide-sensitive Na-Cl cotransporter (NCC) is the major pathway for salt reabsorption in the mammalian distal convoluted tubule. NCC plays a key role in the regulation of blood pressure. Its inhibition with thiazides constitutes the primary baseline therapy for arterial hypertension. However, the thiazide-binding site in NCC is unknown. Mammals have only one gene encoding for NCC. The eel, however, contains a duplicate gene. NCCα is an ortholog of mammalian NCC and is expressed in the kidney. NCCβ is present in the apical membrane of the rectum. Here we cloned and functionally characterized NCCβ from the European eel. The cRNA encodes a 1043-amino acid membrane protein that, when expressed in Xenopus oocytes, functions as an Na-Cl cotransporter with two major characteristics, making it different from other known NCCs. First, eel NCCβ is resistant to thiazides. Single-point mutagenesis supports that the absence of thiazide inhibition is, at least in part, due to the substitution of a conserved serine for a cysteine at position 379. Second, NCCβ is not activated by low-chloride hypotonic stress, although the unique Ste20-related proline alanine-rich kinase (SPAK) binding site in the amino-terminal domain is conserved. Thus, NCCβ exhibits significant functional differences from NCCs that could be helpful in defining several aspects of the structure-function relationship of this important cotransporter. PMID:27587391

Identification of Genes and Genetic Variants Associated with Poor Treatment Response in Patients with Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-12-01

Tsuchiya N, Narita S, Cao GW, Slavov C, Mitev V, Chanock S, Gronberg H, Haiman CA, Kraft P, Easton DF, Eeles RA. (2013). A meta - analysis of genome...S, Cao GW, Slavov C, Mitev V, Chanock S, Gronberg H, Haiman CA, Kraft P, Easton DF, Eeles RA. (2013). A meta - analysis of genome- wide association...ABSTRACT We have created an informative set of high risk lethal prostate cancer pedigrees and recurrent prostate cancer cases. Linkage analysis has

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

David, M.-L.; Pailloux, F.; Mauchamp, V.

The understanding of the mechanisms of helium bubble formation and evolution in materials requires the quantitative determination of several key quantities such as the helium density in the bubbles. Helium nanobubbles of about 16 nm in diameter were created in silicon by helium implantation at high fluence and subsequent annealing. Individual nanobubbles were analyzed by spatially resolved Electron Energy-loss Spectroscopy (EELS). We report on the in situ probing of helium desorption from the nanobubbles under electron irradiation. This opens new perspectives for a more accurate determination of the helium density through spatially resolved EELS.

New records of larval stages of the eel cod genus Muraenolepis Günther 1880 (Gadiformes: Muraenolepididae) from the western Antarctic Peninsula.

PubMed

Konstantinidis, P; Hilton, E J; Matarese, A C

2016-08-01

Three newly discovered larval specimens of the genus Muraenolepis collected from the waters of the western Antarctic Peninsula are described. Knowledge of their natural history is sparse and information about their early life history is based on only a few larval stages. Here, the available literature on larval eel cods is reviewed, and the specimens placed in context. © 2016 The Fisheries Society of the British Isles.

Plasmon Mapping in Metallic Nanostructures and its Application to Single Molecule Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering: Imaging Electromagnetic Hot-Spots and Analyte Location

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Camden, Jon P.

2013-07-12

A major component of this proposal is to elucidate the connection between optical and electron excitation of plasmon modes in metallic nanostructures. These accomplishments are reported: developed a routine protocol for obtaining spatially resolved, low energy EELS spectra, and resonance Rayleigh scattering spectra from the same nanostructures; correlated optical scattering spectra and plasmon maps obtained using STEM/EELS; and imaged electromagnetic hot spots responsible for single-molecule surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SMSERS).

Correlating the degree of metal–promoter interaction to ethanol selectivity over MnRh/CNTs CO hydrogenation catalysts

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Jingjing; Guo, Zhao; Childers, David

2014-05-01

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MCNTs) were used as a support for Rh-based catalysts for high pressure (20 bar) CO hydrogenation. 3 wt% Rh/CNTs catalysts were loaded with 1 wt% and 2 wt% Mn promoter, respectively, in order to study the effect of metal–promoter interactions for ethanol synthesis. Both STEM and EXAFS results showed ≈1 nm Rh particles in promoted as well as the unpromoted catalysts, STEM and EELS results verified the enhanced metal–promoter interaction when the amount of Mn promoter increased from 1 wt% to 2 wt%. The enhancement in the degree of metal–promoter interaction leads to an increase in themore » ethanol selectivity. Moreover, due to the nature of CNTs (low Z number), the Mn–Rh interactions could be observed at atomic resolution during the STEM–EELS characterization, and the promoter phase is confirmed as Mn(II) oxide by XANES and EELS.« less

Splashing transients of 2D plasmons launched by swift electrons

DOE PAGES

Lin, Xiao; Kaminer, Ido; Shi, Xihang; ...

2017-01-27

Launching of plasmons by swift electrons has long been used in electron energy–loss spectroscopy (EELS) to investigate the plasmonic properties of ultrathin, or two-dimensional (2D), electron systems. However, the question of how a swift electron generates plasmons in space and time has never been answered. We address this issue by calculating and demonstrating the spatial-temporal dynamics of 2D plasmon generation in graphene. We predict a jet-like rise of excessive charge concentration that delays the generation of 2D plasmons in EELS, exhibiting an analog to the hydrodynamic Rayleigh jet in a splashing phenomenon before the launching of ripples. The photon radiation,more » analogous to the splashing sound, accompanies the plasmon emission and can be understood as being shaken off by the Rayleigh jet–like charge concentration. Considering this newly revealed process, we argue that previous estimates on the yields of graphene plasmons in EELS need to be reevaluated.« less

EELS characterisation of bulk CaCu3Ti4O12 ceramics.

PubMed

Calvert, Clair C; Rainforth, W Mark; Sinclair, Derek C; West, Anthony R

2006-01-01

CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) is a cubic perovskite phase and sintered ceramics exhibit high permittivity at room temperature. Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDS) data have been collected from samples of CCTO to relate the observed electrical properties to the microstructure and chemistry on the nanoscale. CCTO ceramics were sintered for 24h at 1115 degrees C in air, giving a grain size of 50-300 microm. Ti L(2,3)-, Cu L(2,3)- and O K-edge EEL data were collected for bulk CCTO (within grain) and compared with well characterised Ti-oxides, CaTiO3 and BaTiO3 perovskites. The bulk metal L(2,3)-edge data for CCTO suggest that Cu is divalent and Ti is present as Ti4+. The O K-edge of CCTO shows increased near-edge structure (NES) compared to those of the simple perovskites.

Surface Plasmon Damping Quantified with an Electron Nanoprobe

PubMed Central

Bosman, Michel; Ye, Enyi; Tan, Shu Fen; Nijhuis, Christian A.; Yang, Joel K. W.; Marty, Renaud; Mlayah, Adnen; Arbouet, Arnaud; Girard, Christian; Han, Ming-Yong

2013-01-01

Fabrication and synthesis of plasmonic structures is rapidly moving towards sub-nanometer accuracy in control over shape and inter-particle distance. This holds the promise for developing device components based on novel, non-classical electro-optical effects. Monochromated electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) has in recent years demonstrated its value as a qualitative experimental technique in nano-optics and plasmonic due to its unprecedented spatial resolution. Here, we demonstrate that EELS can also be used quantitatively, to probe surface plasmon kinetics and damping in single nanostructures. Using this approach, we present from a large (>50) series of individual gold nanoparticles the plasmon Quality factors and the plasmon Dephasing times, as a function of energy/frequency. It is shown that the measured general trend applies to regular particle shapes (rods, spheres) as well as irregular shapes (dendritic, branched morphologies). The combination of direct sub-nanometer imaging with EELS-based plasmon damping analysis launches quantitative nanoplasmonics research into the sub-nanometer realm. PMID:23425921

Some effects of electron channeling on electron energy loss spectroscopy.

PubMed

Kirkland, Earl J

2005-02-01

As an electron beam (of order 100 keV) travels through a crystalline solid it can be channeled down a zone axis of the crystal to form a channeling peak centered on the atomic columns. The channeling peak can be similar in size to the outer atomic orbitals. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) measures the losses that the electron experiences as it passes through the solid yielding information about the unoccupied density of states in the solid. The interaction matrix element for this process typically produces dipole selection rules for small angle scattering. In this paper, a theoretical calculation of the EELS cross section in the presence of strong channeling is performed for the silicon L23 edge. The presence of channeling is found to alter both the intensity and selection rules for this EELS signal as a function of depth in the solid. At some depths in the specimen small but significant non-dipole transition components can be produced, which may influence measurements of the density of states in solids.

Fipronil and two of its transformation products in water and European eel from the river Elbe.

PubMed

Michel, N; Freese, M; Brinkmann, M; Pohlmann, J-D; Hollert, H; Kammann, U; Haarich, M; Theobald, N; Gerwinski, W; Rotard, W; Hanel, R

2016-10-15

Fipronil is an insecticide which, based on its mode of action, is intended to be predominantly toxic towards insects. Fipronil bioaccumulates and some of its transformation products were reported to be similar or even more stable in the environment and to show an enhanced toxicity against non-target organisms compared to the parent compound. The current study investigated the occurrence of Fipronil and two of its transformation products, Fipronil-desulfinyl and Fipronil-sulfone, in water as well as muscle and liver samples of eels from the river Elbe (Germany). In water samples total concentrations of FIP, FIP-d and FIP-s ranged between 0.5-1.6ngL(-1) with FIP being the main component in all water samples followed by FIP-s and FIP-d. In contrast, FIP-s was the main component in muscle and liver tissues of eels with concentrations of 4.05±3.73ngg(-1) ww and 19.91±9.96ngg(-1) ww, respectively. Using a physiologically based toxicokinetic (PBTK) model for moderately hydrophobic organic chemicals, the different distributions of FIP, FIP-d and FIP-s in water and related tissue samples could be attributed to metabolic processes of eels. The measured concentrations in water of all analytes and their fractional distribution did not reflect the assumed seasonal application of FIP and it seems that the water was constantly contaminated with FIP, FIP-d and FIP-s. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effects of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) on phase I and phase II biotransformation enzymes in European eel Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus, 1758).

PubMed

Della Torre, Camilla; Corsi, Ilaria; Arukwe, Augustine; Alcaro, Luigi; Amato, Ezio; Focardi, Silvano

2008-07-01

The aim of this study was to investigate effects of the explosive 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) on liver drug metabolizing genes and enzymes in the European eel Anguilla anguilla as a model fish species. Eels were exposed in vivo for 6h and 24h to 0.5, 1 and 2.5mg/L nominal concentrations of TNT. Expression of CYP1A, glutathione-S-transferase (pi-class; GST) and uridine-diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (1-family) (UDPGT) genes was investigated by RT-PCR, and 7-ethoxy- and 7-methoxyresorufin-O-dealkylases (EROD, MROD), NADPH cyt c reductase (NADPH red), UDPGT and GST enzyme activities were measured by biochemical assays. An in vitro study was also performed, measuring only EROD activity. TNT exposure produced no modulation of CYP1A transcript expression while a significant inhibition of EROD enzyme activity was observed and confirmed in vitro. UDPGT transcript increased dose-dependently only at 6h while the UDPGT activity tended to increase dose-dependently at 24h. GST gene expression increased after 24h and significant increases of GST activity were observed both at 6 and 24h only at the highest TNT concentration. An increase of NADPH red activity was observed at 24h. Our results seem to indicate an inhibitory effect of TNT on CYP1A-dependent catalytic activities and a possible involvement of phase II enzymes as well as NADPH red in TNT metabolism in eels.

Topographical localization of the C-terminal region of the voltage-dependent sodium channel from Electrophorus electricus using antibodies raised against a synthetic peptide

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Gordon, R.D.; Fieles, W.E.; Schotland, D.L.

1987-01-01

A peptide corresponding to amino acid residues 1783-1794 near the C terminus of the electric eel sodium channel primary sequence of the eel (Electrophorus electricus) sodium channel has been synthesized and used to raise an antiserum in rabbits. This antiserum specifically recognized the peptide in a solid-phase radioimmunoassay. Specificity of the antiserum for the native channel protein was shown by its specific binding to a 280-kDa protein in immunoblots of eel electroplax membrane proteins. The antiserum also specifically labeled the innervated membrane of the eel electroplax in immunofluorescent studies. The membrane topology of the peptide recognized by this antiserum wasmore » proved in binding studies using oriented electroplax membrane vesicles. These vesicles were 98% right-side-out as determined by (/sup 3/H)saxitoxin binding. Binding of the antipeptide antiserum to this fraction was measured before and after permeabilization with 0.01% saponin. Specific binding to intact vesicles was low, but this binding increased 10-fold after permeabilization, implying a cytoplasmic orientation for the peptide. Confirmation for this orientation was then sought by localizing the antibody bound to intact electroplax cells with immunogold electron microscopy. The data imply that the region of the sodium channel primary sequence near the C terminus that is recognized by the anitserum is localized on the cytoplasmic side of the membrane; this localization provides some further constraints on models of sodium channel tertiary structure.« less

Surviving in a toxic world: transcriptomics and gene expression profiling in response to environmental pollution in the critically endangered European eel.

PubMed

Pujolar, Jose Martin; Marino, Ilaria A M; Milan, Massimo; Coppe, Alessandro; Maes, Gregory E; Capoccioni, Fabrizio; Ciccotti, Eleonora; Bervoets, Lieven; Covaci, Adrian; Belpaire, Claude; Cramb, Gordon; Patarnello, Tomaso; Bargelloni, Luca; Bortoluzzi, Stefania; Zane, Lorenzo

2012-09-25

Genomic and transcriptomic approaches have the potential for unveiling the genome-wide response to environmental perturbations. The abundance of the catadromous European eel (Anguilla anguilla) stock has been declining since the 1980s probably due to a combination of anthropogenic and climatic factors. In this paper, we explore the transcriptomic dynamics between individuals from high (river Tiber, Italy) and low pollution (lake Bolsena, Italy) environments, which were measured for 36 PCBs, several organochlorine pesticides and brominated flame retardants and nine metals. To this end, we first (i) updated the European eel transcriptome using deep sequencing data with a total of 640,040 reads assembled into 44,896 contigs (Eeelbase release 2.0), and (ii) developed a transcriptomic platform for global gene expression profiling in the critically endangered European eel of about 15,000 annotated contigs, which was applied to detect differentially expressed genes between polluted sites. Several detoxification genes related to metabolism of pollutants were upregulated in the highly polluted site, including genes that take part in phase I of the xenobiotic metabolism (CYP3A), phase II (glutathione-S-transferase) and oxidative stress (glutathione peroxidase). In addition, key genes in the mitochondrial respiratory chain and oxidative phosphorylation were down-regulated at the Tiber site relative to the Bolsena site. Together with the induced high expression of detoxification genes, the suggested lowered expression of genes supposedly involved in metabolism suggests that pollution may also be associated with decreased respiratory and energy production.

Multiple scattering calculations of relativistic electron energy loss spectra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jorissen, K.; Rehr, J. J.; Verbeeck, J.

2010-04-01

A generalization of the real-space Green’s-function approach is presented for ab initio calculations of relativistic electron energy loss spectra (EELS) which are particularly important in anisotropic materials. The approach incorporates relativistic effects in terms of the transition tensor within the dipole-selection rule. In particular, the method accounts for relativistic corrections to the magic angle in orientation resolved EELS experiments. The approach is validated by a study of the graphite CK edge, for which we present an accurate magic angle measurement consistent with the predicted value.

Recompression Chamber Communication Systems Test and Evaluation.

DTIC Science & Technology

1984-04-01

consisted of a selector switch and two banana jacks in order to use the same connecting cable on all of the systems tested. This modification would be...thin 6. din dic din dill 31. bark mark lark park 7. dun dud dung dug 32. gale pale bale male 8. f fig fin fizz fib 33. peel feel eel keel 9. leave...tale male bale S. fin fig fib fizz fill 33. heel keel feel peel eel 9. leash lead leave leach liege 34. till hill bill kill will 10. taj tog tong toss

Electric Eel-Skin-Inspired Mechanically Durable and Super-Stretchable Nanogenerator for Deformable Power Source and Fully Autonomous Conformable Electronic-Skin Applications.

PubMed

Lai, Ying-Chih; Deng, Jianan; Niu, Simiao; Peng, Wenbo; Wu, Changsheng; Liu, Ruiyuan; Wen, Zhen; Wang, Zhong Lin

2016-12-01

Electric eel-skin-inspired mechanically durable and super-stretchable nanogenerator is demonstrated for the first time by using triboelectric effect. This newly designed nanogenerator can produce electricity by touch or tapping despite under various extreme mechanical deformations or even after experiencing damage. This device can be used not only as deformable and wearable power source but also as fully autonomous and self-sufficient adaptive electronic skin system. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Acute toxicity of two lampricides, 3-trifluoromethyl-4-nitrophenol (TFM) and a TFM: 1% niclosamide mixture, to sea lamprey, three species of unionids, haliplid water beetles, and American eel

USGS Publications Warehouse

Boogaard, Michael A.; Rivera, Jane E.

2011-01-01

We conducted a series of toxicological treatments with 3-trifluoromethyl-4-nitrophenol (TFM) and a TFM:1% 2′,5-dichloro-4′-nitrosalicylanilide (niclosamide) mixture, two compounds used to control larval sea lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) in Great Lakes tributaries, to evaluate the acute toxicity of the lampricides to a number of nontarget species of concern. Treatments were conducted with yellow stage American eel (Anguilla rostrata), adult and larval haliplid water beetles (Haliplus spp.), a surrogate for the endangered Hungerford’s crawling water beetle (Brychius hungerfordi), and adults of three unionid species—giant floater (Pyganadon grandis), fragile papershell (Leptodea fragilis), and pink heelsplitter (Potamilus alatus). Treatments were conducted using a serial dilution system consisting of nine test concentrations and an untreated control with 20% dilution between concentrations. Narcosis was evident among giant floaters exposed to the TFM and the TFM:1% niclosamide mixture and among pink heelsplitters exposed to the TFM:1% niclosamide mixture only but mostly at concentrations greater than 2-fold that required to kill 100% of larval sea lamprey (minimum lethal concentration (MLC)). Tests with the haliplid beetle suggest the risks to the Hungerford’s crawling water beetle associated with TFM applications are minimal. Concentrations over 2-fold the sea lamprey MLC did not kill adult or larval water beetles. Preliminary behavioral observations suggest water beetles may avoid treatment by crawling out of the water. Adult water beetles exposed to TFM at 3-fold the sea lamprey MLC were observed above the water line more often than controls. The lampricide TFM was not acutely toxic to American eel. Mortalities were rare among American eel exposed to TFM concentrations up to 7-fold the observed sea lamprey MLC. Similarly, for the TFM:1% niclosamide mixture, mortalities were rare among American eel exposed to nearly 5-fold the observed sea lamprey MLC. Overall, acute TFM toxicity was not evident among any of the species examined in this study at concentrations targeted to control larval sea lamprey. Results for the adult unionids should be viewed with caution due to the lack of replication in the treatments.

Nematode eel parasite found inside acanthocephalan cysts--a "Trojan horse" strategy?

PubMed

Emde, Sebastian; Rueckert, Sonja; Kochmann, Judith; Knopf, Klaus; Sures, Bernd; Klimpel, Sven

2014-11-18

The invasive eel parasite Anguillicoloides crassus (syn. Anguillicola crassus) is considered one of the major causes for the decline of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla) panmictic population. It impairs the swim bladder function and reduces swimming performance of its host. The life cycle of this parasite involves different intermediate and paratenic hosts. Despite an efficient immune system of the paratenic fish hosts acting against infections with A. crassus, levels of parasitized eels remain high in European river systems. Recently, the round goby Neogobius melanostomus (Gobiidae) has become dominant in many rivers in Europe and is still spreading at a rapid pace. This highly invasive species might potentially act as an important, so far neglected paratenic fish host for A. crassus. Based on own observations and earlier single sightings of A. crassus in N. melanostomus, 60 fresh individuals of N. melanostomus were caught in the Rhine River and examined to assess the infection levels with metazoan parasites, especially A. crassus. Glycerin preparations were used for parasite identification. The parasite most frequently found in N. melanostomus was the acanthocephalan Pomphorhynchus sp. (subadult stage) which occurred mainly encysted in the mesenteries and liver. Every third gobiid (P = 31.7%) was infected by A. crassus larvae (L3) which exclusively occurred inside the acanthocephalan cysts. No intact or degenerated larvae of A. crassus were detected elsewhere in the goby, neither in the body cavity and mesenteries nor in other organs. Affected cysts contained the acanthocephalan larvae and 1-12 (mI =3) living A. crassus larvae. Additionally, encysted larvae of the nematode Raphidascaris acus were detected in the gobies, but only in the body cavity and not inside the acanthocephalan cysts. Based on our observations, we suggest that A. crassus might actively bypass the immune response of N. melanostomus by invading the cysts of acanthocephalan parasites of the genus Pomphorhynchus using them as "Trojan horses". Providing that eels prey on the highly abundant round goby and that the latter transfers viable infective larvae of A. crassus, the new paratenic host might have a strong impact on the epidemiology of A. crassus.

Oxygen chemisorption on copper (110)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mundenar, J. M.; Baddorf, A. P.; Plummer, E. W.; Sneddon, L. G.; Didio, R. A.; Zehner, D. M.

1987-09-01

High resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and angle-resolved ultra-violet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) have been used: (1) to study a surface phonon of Cu(110) as a function of oxygen coverage, (2) to identify oxygen adsorption site(s) in the p(2×1)O, c(6×2)O, and disordered oxygen overlayer (formed by O 2 exposure at 100 K), and (3) to determine whether molecular adsorption or dissociation of O 2 followed by atomic adsorption occurs after oxygen exposure at 100 K. With EELS, a continuous shift in energy of the surface phonon as a function of oxygen exposure at 300 K is observed. Our EELS data for the p(2×1)O overlayer support previous reports of a single long-bridge adsorption site, while indicating two sites are populated in the c(6×2)O overlayer: a long-bridge site and a four-coordinated site. The long-bridge site is populated at all coverages while the four-coordinated sites is occupied only after high exposures (≥2×10 4 L) at room temperature, or after exposures >2 L at low temperature (100 K). For both conditions the oxygen coverages are greater than 0.5 monolayer. Also, EELS and complementary UPS data clearly show that oxygen adsorbs dissociatively on Cu(110) after O 2 exposure at 100 K. At this temperature, LEED results indicate that the oxygen atoms are adsorbed without long-range order; however, local adsorption sites, which are similar to those in the c(6×2)O surface, are observed.

Rational Design of Solution-Processed Ti-Fe-O Ternary Oxides for Efficient Planar CH3NH3PbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells with Suppressed Hysteresis.

PubMed

Li, Xin; Hao, Feng; Zhao, Xingyue; Yin, Xuewen; Yao, Zhibo; Guo, Ying; Shen, Heping; Lin, Hong

2017-10-11

Electron-extraction layer (EEL) plays a critical role in determining the charge extraction and the power conversion efficiencies of the organometal-halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In this work, Ti-Fe-O ternary oxides were first developed to work as an efficient EEL in planar PSC. Compared with the widely used TiO x and the pure FeO x , the ternary composites show superior properties in multiple aspects including the excellent stability of the precursor solution, good coverage on the substrates, outstanding electrical properties, and suitable energy levels. By varying the Fe content from 0 to 100% in the Ti-Fe-O composites, the conductivity of the resultant compact layer was markedly improved, confirmed by consistent results from the conductive atomic force microscopy and the linear sweep voltammetry measurements. Meanwhile, the compositional engineering tunes the energy level alignment of the Ti-Fe-O EEL/CH 3 NH 3 PbI 3 interface to a region that is favorable for obtaining excellent charge-extraction property. The combinational advantages of the Ti-Fe-O composites significantly improved the photovoltaic performance of the as-prepared solar cells. An increase of over 20% in the short-circuit current (J SC ) density has been achieved due to a modified EEL conductivity and energy alignment with the perovskite layer. The reduction in the surface recombination and enhancement of the charge collection efficiency also result in about 15% increase in the fill factor. Notably, the device also showed remarkably alleviated hysteresis behavior, revealing a prominently inhibited surface recombination.

Low-loss electron energy loss spectroscopy: An atomic-resolution complement to optical spectroscopies and application to graphene

DOE PAGES

Kapetanakis, Myron; Zhou, Wu; Oxley, Mark P.; ...

2015-09-25

Photon-based spectroscopies have played a central role in exploring the electronic properties of crystalline solids and thin films. They are a powerful tool for probing the electronic properties of nanostructures, but they are limited by lack of spatial resolution. On the other hand, electron-based spectroscopies, e.g., electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), are now capable of subangstrom spatial resolution. Core-loss EELS, a spatially resolved analog of x-ray absorption, has been used extensively in the study of inhomogeneous complex systems. In this paper, we demonstrate that low-loss EELS in an aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscope, which probes low-energy excitations, combined with amore » theoretical framework for simulating and analyzing the spectra, is a powerful tool to probe low-energy electron excitations with atomic-scale resolution. The theoretical component of the method combines density functional theory–based calculations of the excitations with dynamical scattering theory for the electron beam. We apply the method to monolayer graphene in order to demonstrate that atomic-scale contrast is inherent in low-loss EELS even in a perfectly periodic structure. The method is a complement to optical spectroscopy as it probes transitions entailing momentum transfer. The theoretical analysis identifies the spatial and orbital origins of excitations, holding the promise of ultimately becoming a powerful probe of the structure and electronic properties of individual point and extended defects in both crystals and inhomogeneous complex nanostructures. The method can be extended to probe magnetic and vibrational properties with atomic resolution.« less

Acetylcholine, ATP, and proteoglycan are common to synaptic vesicles isolated from the electric organs of electric eel and electric catfish as well as from rat diaphragm.

PubMed

Volknandt, W; Zimmermann, H

1986-11-01

Cholinergic synaptic vesicles were isolated from the electric organs of the electric eel (Electrophorus electricus) and the electric catfish (Malapterurus electricus) as well as from the diaphragm of the rat by density gradient centrifugation followed by column chromatography on Sephacryl-1000. This was verified by both biochemical and electron microscopic criteria. Differences in size between synaptic vesicles from the various tissue sources were reflected by their elution pattern from the Sephacryl column. Specific activities of acetylcholine (ACh; in nmol/mg of protein) of chromatography-purified vesicle fractions were 36 (electric eel), 2 (electric catfish), and 1 (rat diaphragm). Synaptic vesicles from all three sources contained ATP in addition to ACh (molar ratios of ACh/ATP, 9-12) as well as binding activity for an antibody raised against Torpedo cholinergic synaptic vesicle proteoglycan. Synaptic vesicles from rat diaphragm contained binding activity for the monoclonal antibody asv 48 raised against a rat brain 65-kilodalton synaptic vesicle protein. Antibody asv 48 binding was absent from electric eel and electric catfish synaptic vesicles. These antibody binding results, which were obtained by a dot blot assay on isolated vesicles, directly correspond to the immunocytochemical results demonstrating fluorescein isothiocyanate staining in the respective nerve terminals. Our results imply that ACh, ATP, and proteoglycan are common molecular constituents of motor nerve terminal-derived synaptic vesicles from Torpedo to rat. In addition to ACh, both ATP and proteoglycan may play a specific role in the process of cholinergic signal transmission.

Giant Scour on Eel Fan, California Records Decadal Trubidite Recurrence Interval

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paull, C. K.; McGann, M.; Edwards, B. D.; Barnes, P.; Gwiazda, R.; Lundsten, E. M.; Anderson, K.; Sumner, E.; Caress, D. W.

2013-12-01

Analysis of an exceptional exposure of thinly bedded turbidites in the headwall of a giant submarine scour on Eel Submarine Fan reveals that turbidites were being emplaced with a remarkably high frequency during the late Pleistocene to early Holocene. ROV observations, vibracores and push cores show an 87 m thick outcrop of fine-grained turbidites that are between 3 and 40 cm thick. The turbidites are composed of fining-upwards cycles grading from fine or very fine sand through to silty-mud. Within turbidites reversals in grain size occur representing fluctuating flow conditions. An abundance of woody material and shallow dwelling foraminifera within the turbidites demonstrates the flows originated in shallow water. The silty-mud horizons are barren of pelagic foraminifera, suggesting that they are the late stages of turbidites and that intervening hemipelagic material is absent. Twenty-one 14C measurements made on the transported shallow-water foraminifera and wood fragments within eighteen push cores taken from the scarp reveal that the entire 87 m section was deposited 6 to 14 thousand years BP. Shipboard video observations indicate the appearance of the scarp face is similar throughout the exposed face. In a 10 m section with excellent video, 88 turbidites were counted. Assuming that the entire 87 m face comprises the same rhythmic alterations, more than 766 turbidites were deposited during this ~8,000 year interval. This requires a decadal turbidite recurrence interval. As these deposits are downstream of the Eel River, these data have intriguing implications about the enhanced impact of the Eel River during the late Pleistocene and early Holocene.

Emerging brominated flame retardants and dechlorane-related compounds in European eels (Anguilla anguilla) from Latvian lakes.

PubMed

Zacs, D; Ikkere, L E; Bartkevics, V

2018-04-01

Fifteen halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) including seven emerging brominated flame retardants (EBFRs) and eight dechlorane-related compounds (DRCs) were analyzed in eels (Anguilla anguilla) sampled from five Latvian lakes. Out of the seven EBFRs, hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD) and decabromodiphenyl ethane (DBDPE) were found in eels in quantifiable concentrations, up to 6.58 and 33.0 ng g -1 lipid weight (l.w.), respectively. The mean total concentration of DRCs (∑ DRC ) in the samples was 0.62 ng g -1 l.w. and the geographical distribution of DRC contamination was nearly uniform among the selected lakes. Dechlorane 602 (Dec 602) was the predominant component, whereas the composition of mixture containing syn- and anti-Dechlorane Plus (DP) stereoisomers showed a pronounced enrichment of the anti-DP isomer and was close to the composition of OxyChem ® DP commercial product. The determined concentrations of HFRs were lower than in other studies of aquatic biota from Europe and Asia, and the obtained results reflect the acceptable environmental status of Latvian lakes with regard to the total content of HBCD (∑ HBCD ), considering the environmental quality standards (EQS) stated in the Directive 2013/39/EU. The highest ∑ HBCD levels were observed in eels from lakes corresponding to the industrialization of those areas, while the results of principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the concentration of HBCD depended on the particular sampling lake, reflecting non-uniform contamination of the Latvian environment with this EBFR. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of deep frying on proximate composition and micronutrient of Indian mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta), eel (Monopterus albus) and cockle (Anadara granosa).

PubMed

Rahman, M M; Zamri, M; Fadilla, N

2012-06-15

This study was conducted to determine the proximate composition and four micronutrients (Cd, Cu, Mn and Zn) of Indian Mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta), Eel (Monopterus albus) and Cockle (Anadara granosa). All fish and shellfish were purchased from local fish market in Kuantan city. All samples of each species were mixed and divided into two groups based on random selection. Each group were again divided into 3 sub-groups which were considered as replications. The first group were kept uncooked. The second group were fried in a beaker of 400 mL palm cooking oil capacity at a temperature approximately of 180 degrees C for a 15 min period. Both raw and fried samples were analysed following standard methods to determine protein, lipid, ash, moisture, carbohydrate, Cd, Cu, Mn and Zn contents. Results showed that protein content was higher in Indian mackerel and eel than cockle while overall Cd, Cu, Mn and Zn contents were higher in cockle than Indian mackerel and eel. Therefore, fish is better than shellfish in the nutritional point of view. Fried fish and shellfish had very high fat content. Therefore, frying cannot be recommended to prepare a healthy diet. More research is needed including all cooking methods of fish to know the nutritional changes by each cooking method. Fish contains many important fatty acids and amino acids which might be lost during frying. Therefore, future study should include the effects of different cooking methods on amino acids and fatty acids compositions of fish and shellfish.

Acoustic backscatter of the 1995 flood deposit on the Eel shelf

USGS Publications Warehouse

Borgeld, J.C.; Hughes-Clarke, John E.; Goff, John A.; Mayer, Larry A.; Curtis, Jennifer A.

1999-01-01

Acoustic swath mapping and sediment box coring conducted on the continental shelf near the mouth of the Eel River revealed regional variations in acoustic backscatter that can be related to the shelf sedimentology. The acoustic-backscatter variations observed on the shelf were unusually narrow compared to the response of similar sediment types documented in other areas. However, the acoustic data revealed four principal bottom types on the shelf that can be related to sedimentologic differences observed in cores. The four areas are: (1) low acoustic backscatter associated with the nearshore-sand facies and the prodelta terraces of the Eel and Mad rivers, composed of fine sands and coarse silts with low porosity; (2) high acoustic backscatter associated with fine silts characterized by high porosity and deposited by the 1995 flood of the Eel River; (3) intermediate acoustic backscatter in the outer-shelf muds, where clayey silts are accumulating and the 1995 flood apparently had limited direct effect; and (4) intermediate acoustic backscatter near the fringes of the 1995 flood deposits and in areas where the flood sediments were more disrupted by post-depositional processes. The highest acoustic backscatter was identified in areas where the 1995 flood sediments remained relatively intact and near the shelf surface into the summer of 1995. Cores collected from these areas contained wavy or lenticular bedding. The rapid deposition of the high-porosity muddy layers results in better preservation of incorporated ripple forms than in areas less directly impacted by the flood deposit. The high-porosity muddy layers allow acoustic penetration into the sediments and result in greater acoustic backscatter from incorporated roughness elements.

A transmission electron microscopy study of Fe-Co alloy nanoparticles in silica aerogel matrix using HREM, EDX, and EELS.

PubMed

Falqui, Andrea; Corrias, Anna; Gass, Mhairi; Mountjoy, Gavin

2009-04-01

Magnetic nanocomposite materials consisting of 5.5 wt% Fe-Co alloy nanoparticles in a silica aerogel matrix, with compositions Fe(x)Co(1-x) of x = 0.50 and 0.67, have been synthesized by the sol-gel method. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopy images show nanoparticles consisting of single crystal grains of body-centered cubic Fe-Co alloy, with typical crystal grain diameters of approximately 4 and 7 nm for Fe(0.5)Co(0.5) and Fe(0.67)Co(0.33) samples, respectively. The energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectra summed over areas of the samples gave compositions Fe(x)C(o1-x) with x = 0.48 +/- 0.06 and 0.68 +/- 0.05. The EDX spectra obtained with the 1.5 nm probe positioned at the centers of approximately 20 nanoparticles gave slightly lower concentrations of Fe, with means of x = 0.43 +/- 0.01 and x = 0.64 +/- 0.02, respectively. The Fe(0.5)Co(0.50) sample was studied using electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), and EELS spectra summed over whole nanoparticles gave x = 0.47 +/- 0.06. The EELS spectra from analysis profiles of nanoparticles show a distribution of Fe and Co that is homogeneous, i.e., x = 0.5, within a precision of at best +/-0.05 in x and +/-0.4 nm in position. The present microscopy results have not shown the presence of a thin layer of iron oxide, but this might be at the limit of detectability of the methods.

Surviving in a toxic world: transcriptomics and gene expression profiling in response to environmental pollution in the critically endangered European eel

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Genomic and transcriptomic approaches have the potential for unveiling the genome-wide response to environmental perturbations. The abundance of the catadromous European eel (Anguilla anguilla) stock has been declining since the 1980s probably due to a combination of anthropogenic and climatic factors. In this paper, we explore the transcriptomic dynamics between individuals from high (river Tiber, Italy) and low pollution (lake Bolsena, Italy) environments, which were measured for 36 PCBs, several organochlorine pesticides and brominated flame retardants and nine metals. Results To this end, we first (i) updated the European eel transcriptome using deep sequencing data with a total of 640,040 reads assembled into 44,896 contigs (Eeelbase release 2.0), and (ii) developed a transcriptomic platform for global gene expression profiling in the critically endangered European eel of about 15,000 annotated contigs, which was applied to detect differentially expressed genes between polluted sites. Several detoxification genes related to metabolism of pollutants were upregulated in the highly polluted site, including genes that take part in phase I of the xenobiotic metabolism (CYP3A), phase II (glutathione-S-transferase) and oxidative stress (glutathione peroxidase). In addition, key genes in the mitochondrial respiratory chain and oxidative phosphorylation were down-regulated at the Tiber site relative to the Bolsena site. Conclusions Together with the induced high expression of detoxification genes, the suggested lowered expression of genes supposedly involved in metabolism suggests that pollution may also be associated with decreased respiratory and energy production. PMID:23009661

How do eggs get fat? Insights into ovarian fatty acid accumulation in the shortfinned eel, Anguilla australis.

PubMed

Damsteegt, Erin L; Mizuta, Hiroko; Hiramatsu, Naoshi; Lokman, P Mark

2015-09-15

Previous research using eels has shown that 11-ketotestosterone can induce ovarian triacylglyceride accumulation both in vivo and in vitro. Further, accumulation is dramatically enhanced in the presence of very-low density lipoprotein. This study examined the involvement of the low density lipoprotein receptor and vitellogenin receptor in oocyte lipid accumulation. Specific antisera were used in an attempt to block the vitellogenin receptor and/or the low density lipoprotein receptor. Accordingly, incubation with the low density lipoprotein receptor antiserum clearly reduced the oocyte diameter and the amount of oil present within the oocyte. In contrast, blocking the vitellogenin receptor had little effect on either oocyte surface area or the abundance of oil droplets in the cytosol. In keeping with birds, we conclude that the low density lipoprotein receptor is a major player involved in mediating ovarian fatty acid accumulation in the eel. However, lipoprotein lipase-mediated fatty acid accumulation also remains conceivable, for example through interactions between this enzyme and the low density lipoprotein receptor. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Hierarchical mean-field approach to the J1-J2 Heisenberg model on a square lattice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Isaev, Leonid; Ortiz, Gerardo; Dukelsky, Jorge

2009-03-01

We study the quantum phase diagram and excitation spectrum of the frustrated J1-J2 spin-1/2 Heisenberg Hamiltonian. A hierarchical mean-field approach, at the heart of which lies the idea of identifying relevant degrees of freedom, is developed. Thus, by performing educated, manifestly symmetry preserving mean-field approximations, we unveil fundamental properties of the system. We then compare various coverings of the square lattice with plaquettes, dimers and other degrees of freedom, and show that only the symmetric plaquette covering, which reproduces the original Bravais lattice, leads to the known phase diagram. The intermediate quantum paramagnetic phase is shown to be a (singlet) plaquette crystal, connected with the neighbouring N'eel phase by a continuous phase transition. We also introduce fluctuations around the hierarchical mean-field solutions, and demonstrate that in the paramagnetic phase the ground and first excited states are separated by a finite gap, which closes in the N'eel and columnar phases. Our results suggest that the quantum phase transition between N'eel and paramagnetic phases can be properly described within the Ginzburg-Landau-Wilson paradigm.

Heavy Metals Uptake by Asian Swamp Eel, Monopterus albus from Paddy Fields of Kelantan, Peninsular Malaysia: Preliminary Study

PubMed Central

Yin, Sow Ai; Ismail, Ahmad; Zulkifli, Syaizwan Zahmir

2012-01-01

Swamp eel, Monopterus albus is one of the common fish in paddy fields, thus it is suitable to be a bio-monitor for heavy metals pollution studies in paddy fields. This study was conducted to assess heavy metals levels in swamp eels collected from paddy fields in Kelantan, Malaysia. The results showed zinc [Zn (86.40 μg/g dry weight)] was the highest accumulated metal in the kidney, liver, bone, gill, muscle and skin. Among the selected organs, gill had the highest concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and nickel (Ni) whereas muscle showed the lowest total metal accumulation of Zn, Pb, copper (Cu), Cd and Ni. Based on the Malaysian Food Regulation, the levels of Zn and Cu in edible parts (muscle and skin) were within the safety limits. However, Cd, Pb and Ni exceeded the permissible limits. By comparing with the maximum level intake (MLI), Pb, Ni and Cd in edible parts can still be consumed. This investigation indicated that M. albus from paddy fields of Kelantan are safe for human consumption with little precaution. PMID:24575231

Progress and opportunities in EELS and EDS tomography.

PubMed

Collins, Sean M; Midgley, Paul A

2017-09-01

Electron tomography using energy loss and X-ray spectroscopy in the electron microscope continues to develop in rapidly evolving and diverse directions, enabling new insight into the three-dimensional chemistry and physics of nanoscale volumes. Progress has been made recently in improving reconstructions from EELS and EDS signals in electron tomography by applying compressed sensing methods, characterizing new detector technologies in detail, deriving improved models of signal generation, and exploring machine learning approaches to signal processing. These disparate threads can be brought together in a cohesive framework in terms of a model-based approach to analytical electron tomography. Models incorporate information on signal generation and detection as well as prior knowledge of structures in the spectrum image data. Many recent examples illustrate the flexibility of this approach and its feasibility for addressing challenges in non-linear or limited signals in EELS and EDS tomography. Further work in combining multiple imaging and spectroscopy modalities, developing synergistic data acquisition, processing, and reconstruction approaches, and improving the precision of quantitative spectroscopic tomography will expand the frontiers of spatial resolution, dose limits, and maximal information recovery. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

LDRD Final Report - In Operando Liquid Cell TEM Characterization of Nickel-Based Electrocatalyst

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nielsen, M. H.

2016-11-07

A commercial electrochemistry stage for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was tested to determine whether to purchase one for the microscopes at Lawrence Livermore National Lab (LLNL). Deposition of a nickel-based electrocatalyst was pursued as a material system for the purpose of testing the stage. The stage was found to be problematic with recurring issues in the electrical connections and vacuum sealing, which has thus far precluded a systematic investigation of the original material system. However, the electrochemical cells purchased through this FS will allow the Lawrence Fellow (Nielsen) to continue testing the stage. Furthermore, discussions with a second vendor, whichmore » released a similar electrochemical TEM stage during the course of this FS, have resulted in an upcoming longterm loan of their stage at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab (LBNL) for testing. In addition, low-loss electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) measurements on nickel-bearing electrolyte solutions led to a broader EELS investigation of solvents and salt solutions. These measurements form the basis of a manuscript in preparation on EELS measurements of the liquid phase.« less

TEM-EELS Investigation of Boron and Phosphorus Passivated 4H-SiC/SiO2 Interface Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klingshirn, Christopher; Taillon, Joshua; Liu, Gang; Dhar, Sarit; Feldman, Leonard; Zheleva, Tsvetanka; Lelis, Aivars; Salamanca-Riba, Lourdes

A high density of electronic defects at the SiC/SiO2 interface adversely affects SiC-based metal oxide semiconductor devices. Various treatments are known to improve device performance. Annealing in a nitric oxide (NO) environment, for example, passivates electronic defects at the interface and raises the carrier mobility in the active region to 35-40 cm2/Vs, but the effect saturates after about 60 minutes of annealing. Passivation with phosphorus or boron improves upon NO by a factor of 2, increasing the mobility to over 90 cm2/Vs.2 We investigate the chemical and structural effects of these treatments on the SiC/SiO2 transition layer using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and high angle annular dark field (HAADF). Electron energy loss spectroscopy Spectrum Imaging (EELS SI) collected across the transition region allow identification of the width, composition and types of bonding at the transition layer. Advanced machine learning techniques applied to the EELS data reveal intermediate bonding states within this region. Supported by ARL under Grant No. W911NF1420110.

Application of STEM/EELS to Plasmon-Related Effects in Optical Spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Camden, Jon

In this project we employed EELS/STEM to understand the near-field enhancements that drive current applications of plasmonic nanostructures. In particular, we explore the connection between optical and electron excitation of plasmon modes in metallic nanostructures: (1) Probing the structural parameters and dielectric properties of multimetallic nanoparticles; (2) Characterization of the near-electric-field enhancements obtained upon excitation of the localized surface plasmon resonance and understand the connection between electron- and photon-driven plasmons; (3) Understanding the behavior of molecules in plasmon-enhanced fields which is essential to emerging applications such as plasmon-assisted catalysis and solar energy harvesting.

Phenolic Lipids Affect the Activity and Conformation of Acetylcholinesterase from Electrophorus electricus (Electric eel)

PubMed Central

Stasiuk, Maria; Janiszewska, Alicja; Kozubek, Arkadiusz

2014-01-01

Phenolic lipids were isolated from rye grains, cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL) from Anacardium occidentale, and fruit bodies of Merrulius tremellosus, and their effects on the electric eel acetylcholinesterase activity and conformation were studied. The observed effect distinctly depended on the chemical structure of the phenolic lipids that were available for interaction with the enzyme. All of the tested compounds reduced the activity of acetylcholinesterase. The degree of inhibition varied, showing a correlation with changes in the conformation of the enzyme tested by the intrinsic fluorescence of the Trp residues of the protein. PMID:24787269

Site-specific electronic structure analysis by channeling EELS and first-principles calculations.

PubMed

Tatsumi, Kazuyoshi; Muto, Shunsuke; Yamamoto, Yu; Ikeno, Hirokazu; Yoshioka, Satoru; Tanaka, Isao

2006-01-01

Site-specific electronic structures were investigated by electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) under electron channeling conditions. The Al-K and Mn-L(2,3) electron energy loss near-edge structure (ELNES) of, respectively, NiAl2O4 and Mn3O4 were measured. Deconvolution of the raw spectra with the instrumental resolution function restored the blunt and hidden fine features, which allowed us to interpret the experimental spectral features by comparing with theoretical spectra obtained by first-principles calculations. The present method successfully revealed the electronic structures specific to the differently coordinated cationic sites.

Complete genome sequence and phylogenetic analyses of an aquabirnavirus isolated from a diseased marbled eel culture in Taiwan.

PubMed

Wen, Chiu-Ming

2017-08-01

An aquabirnavirus was isolated from diseased marbled eels (Anguilla marmorata; MEIPNV1310) with gill haemorrhages and associated mortality. Its genome segment sequences were obtained through next-generation sequencing and compared with published aquabirnavirus sequences. The results indicated that the genome sequence of MEIPNV1310 contains segment A (3099 nucleotides) and segment B (2789 nucleotides). Phylogenetic analysis showed that MEIPNV1310 is closely related to the infectious pancreatic necrosis Ab strain within genogroup II. This genome sequence is beneficial for studying the geographic distribution and evolution of aquabirnaviruses.

Biodiversity and distribution of leptocephali west of the Mascarene Plateau in the southwestern Indian Ocean

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, Michael J.; Feunteun, Eric; Aoyama, Jun; Watanabe, Shun; Kuroki, Mari; Lecomte-Finiger, Raymonde; Minegishi, Yuki; Robinet, Tony; Réveillac, Elodie; Gagnaire, Pierre-Alexandre; Berrebi, Patrick; Tsukamoto, Katsumi; Otake, Tsuguo

2015-09-01

Marine eels that live on the continental shelf, slope and deep-sea and in the pelagic realms of the ocean are distributed worldwide at tropical and subtropical latitudes, but little information is available about their biodiversity and ecology in most areas. Collections of their leptocephalus larvae that all live together in the upper few hundred meters of the ocean are one way to learn about the distributions, reproductive ecology, and life histories of these difficult to observe fishes. This study evaluated the biodiversity and spatial distributions of leptocephali collected during two surveys conducted to the west of the shallow banks of the Mascarene Plateau in the southwestern Indian Ocean. 1140 leptocephali of at least 94 species of ⩾14 families of anguilliform and notacanthid fishes were collected in Nov.-Dec. 2006 and Jan.-Feb. 2010 in overlapping areas west of the plateau. In 2006, 565 leptocephali of at least 71 species were collected at 42 stations in two transects from 8 to 18°S, with larvae of shallow-water eel species of the Congridae, Muraenidae, Ophichthidae and Chlopsidae being most abundant at the northern stations in warmer water to the west of the Mascarene Plateau. Some small leptocephali of those eel families appeared to be transported offshore by currents from areas including the Seychelles, but the distribution of the leptocephali of mesopelagic eels of the Nemichthyidae and Serrivomeridae were more widespread. In 2010, 575 leptocephali of at least 53 species were collected in a dense grid of stations with the smallest larvae of the Muraenidae and Ophichthidae being near the banks, and spawning occurring at the Cargados Carajos Bank. Small larvae of Conger collected in the southwestern edge of the grid indicated offshore spawning, which is similar to Conger species in the Atlantic and Pacific. Seasonal and geographic differences in the characteristics or compositions of leptocephali were apparent, with higher proportions of small larvae in 2010 than in 2006, but cluster analysis of assemblage structure found similar geographic structure between the two surveys. Thalassenchelys larvae were only collected in the same southern area in both surveys and nettastomatid and notacanthid larvae were only collected in the north in 2006. The two surveys suggested that there is a relatively high biodiversity of eels in the Mascarene Plateau area compared to some regions and that colder water temperatures may inhibit spawning of eels on the southern banks. The two types of sampling strategies (transects or grid survey) each had different advantages, which can be considered for use in future oceanographic surveys for leptocephali in other regions of the world.

A multi-locus molecular timescale for the origin and diversification of eels (Order: Anguilliformes).

PubMed

Santini, Francesco; Kong, Xianghui; Sorenson, Laurie; Carnevale, Giorgio; Mehta, Rita S; Alfaro, Michael E

2013-12-01

Anguilliformes are an ecologically diverse group of predominantly marine fishes whose members are easily recognized by their extremely elongate bodies, and universal lack of pelvic fins. Recent studies based on mitochondrial loci, including full mitogenomes, have called into question the monophyly of both the Anguilliformes, which appear to be paraphyletic without the inclusion of the Saccopharyngiformes (gulper eels and allies), as well as other more commonly known eel families (e.g., Congridae, Serrivomeridae). However, no study to date has investigated anguilliform interrelationships using nuclear loci. Here we present a new phylogenetic hypothesis for the Anguilliformes based on five markers (the nuclear loci Early Growth Hormone 3, Myosin Heavy Polypeptide 6 and Recombinase Activating Gene 1, as well as the mitochondrial genes Cytochrome b and Cytochrome Oxidase I). Our sampling spans 148 species and includes 19 of the 20 extant families of anguilliforms and saccopharyngiforms. Maximum likelihood analysis reveals that saccopharyngiform eels are deeply nested within the anguilliforms, and supports the non-monophyly of Congridae and Nettastomatidae, as well as that of Derichthyidae and Chlopsidae. Our analyses suggest that Protanguilla may be the sister group of the Synaphobranchidae, though the recent hypothesis that this species is the sister group to all other anguilliforms cannot be rejected. The molecular phylogeny, time-calibrated using a Bayesian relaxed clock approach and seven fossil calibration points, reveals a Late Cretaceous origin of this expanded anguilliform clade (stem age ~116 Ma, crown age ~99 Ma). Most major (family level) lineages originated between the end of the Cretaceous and Early Eocene, suggesting that anguilliform radiation may have been facilitated by the recovery of marine ecosystems following the KP extinction. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Vibrational Surface Electron-Energy-Loss Spectroscopy Probes Confined Surface-Phonon Modes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lourenço-Martins, Hugo; Kociak, Mathieu

2017-10-01

Recently, two reports [Krivanek et al. Nature (London) 514, 209 (2014), 10.1038/nature13870, Lagos et al. Nature (London) 543, 529 (2017), 10.1038/nature21699] have demonstrated the amazing possibility to probe vibrational excitations from nanoparticles with a spatial resolution much smaller than the corresponding free-space phonon wavelength using electron-energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). While Lagos et al. evidenced a strong spatial and spectral modulation of the EELS signal over a nanoparticle, Krivanek et al. did not. Here, we show that discrepancies among different EELS experiments as well as their relation to optical near- and far-field optical experiments [Dai et al. Science 343, 1125 (2014), 10.1126/science.1246833] can be understood by introducing the concept of confined bright and dark surface phonon modes, whose density of states is probed by EELS. Such a concise formalism is the vibrational counterpart of the broadly used formalism for localized surface plasmons [Ouyang and Isaacson Philos. Mag. B 60, 481 (1989), 10.1080/13642818908205921, García de Abajo and Aizpurua Phys. Rev. B 56, 15873 (1997), 10.1103/PhysRevB.56.15873, García de Abajo and Kociak Phys. Rev. Lett. 100, 106804 (2008), 10.1103/PhysRevLett.100.106804, Boudarham and Kociak Phys. Rev. B 85, 245447 (2012), 10.1103/PhysRevB.85.245447]; it makes it straightforward to predict or interpret phenomena already known for localized surface plasmons such as environment-related energy shifts or the possibility of 3D mapping of the related surface charge densities [Collins et al. ACS Photonics 2, 1628 (2015), 10.1021/acsphotonics.5b00421].

Summer use of the tidal freshwaters of the River Seine by three estuarine fish: Coupling telemetry and GIS spatial analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Pichon, C.; Coustillas, J.; Zahm, A.; Bunel, M.; Gazeau-Nadin, C.; Rochard, E.

2017-09-01

Acoustic telemetry and GIS-based spatial analysis were used to investigate the summer habitat use and movement patterns of three fish species in the tidal freshwaters of the Seine estuary (France). Experimental displacement of tagged individuals of thin-lipped grey mullet (Liza ramada), European eel (Anguilla anguilla), and common bream (Abramis brama) were conducted to test for their spatial fidelity and home range establishment. Most tagged individuals (95%) successfully returned to their previously occupied capture site, showing spatial homing abilities. The studied upstream tidal freshwater segment of the Seine estuary was regularly used by grey mullet as a part of its larger summer home range, while European eel and common bream were resident in this segment. The fidelity of eel to small nocturnal refuges and the regular use of intertidal waterbodies at high tide by grey mullet and bream suggested that they possess a capacity of acquiring spatial memory of habitats in a fluctuating environment. Importantly, the scale of movements travelled by each species was positively related to tidal phase. Grey mullet and bream, both visual feeders, exhibited short-term tidal movements to known habitats, providing food resources and contiguous resting habitat suggesting that they have shown behavioural strategies adaptive to fluctuating environments. Eel, in contrast, was found to have a different strategy strongly related to diel dynamics: it stayed in subtidal habitats rich in refuges that remained available at low tide. The results of this study emphasize the importance of restoring intertidal waterbodies and the relevance of considering the availability of adjacent subtidal habitats providing refuge at low tides.

Wild eel microbiome reveals that skin mucus of fish could be a natural niche for aquatic mucosal pathogen evolution.

PubMed

Carda-Diéguez, Miguel; Ghai, Rohit; Rodríguez-Valera, Francisco; Amaro, Carmen

2017-12-21

Fish skin mucosal surfaces (SMS) are quite similar in composition and function to some mammalian MS and, in consequence, could constitute an adequate niche for the evolution of mucosal aquatic pathogens in natural environments. We aimed to test this hypothesis by searching for metagenomic and genomic evidences in the SMS-microbiome of a model fish species (Anguilla Anguilla or eel), from different ecosystems (four natural environments of different water salinity and one eel farm) as well as the water microbiome (W-microbiome) surrounding the host. Remarkably, potentially pathogenic Vibrio monopolized wild eel SMS-microbiome from natural ecosystems, Vibrio anguillarum/Vibrio vulnificus and Vibrio cholerae/Vibrio metoecus being the most abundant ones in SMS from estuary and lake, respectively. Functions encoded in the SMS-microbiome differed significantly from those in the W-microbiome and allowed us to predict that successful mucus colonizers should have specific genes for (i) attachment (mainly by forming biofilms), (ii) bacterial competence and communication, and (iii) resistance to mucosal innate immunity, predators (amoeba), and heavy metals/drugs. In addition, we found several mobile genetic elements (mainly integrative conjugative elements) as well as a series of evidences suggesting that bacteria exchange DNA in SMS. Further, we isolated and sequenced a V. metoecus strain from SMS. This isolate shares pathogenicity islands with V. cholerae O1 from intestinal infections that are absent in the rest of sequenced V. metoecus strains, all of them from water and extra-intestinal infections. We have obtained metagenomic and genomic evidence in favor of the hypothesis on the role of fish mucosal surfaces as a specialized habitat selecting microbes capable of colonizing and persisting on other comparable mucosal surfaces, e.g., the human intestine.

A role for circadian evening elements in cold-regulated gene expression in Arabidopsis.

PubMed

Mikkelsen, Michael D; Thomashow, Michael F

2009-10-01

The plant transcriptome is dramatically altered in response to low temperature. The cis-acting DNA regulatory elements and trans-acting factors that regulate the majority of cold-regulated genes are unknown. Previous bioinformatic analysis has indicated that the promoters of cold-induced genes are enriched in the Evening Element (EE), AAAATATCT, a DNA regulatory element that has a role in circadian-regulated gene expression. Here we tested the role of EE and EE-like (EEL) elements in cold-induced expression of two Arabidopsis genes, CONSTANS-like 1 (COL1; At5g54470) and a gene encoding a 27-kDa protein of unknown function that we designated COLD-REGULATED GENE 27 (COR27; At5g42900). Mutational analysis indicated that the EE/EEL elements were required for cold induction of COL1 and COR27, and that their action was amplified through coupling with ABA response element (ABRE)-like (ABREL) motifs. An artificial promoter consisting solely of four EE motifs interspersed with three ABREL motifs was sufficient to impart cold-induced gene expression. Both COL1 and COR27 were found to be regulated by the circadian clock at warm growth temperatures and cold-induction of COR27 was gated by the clock. These results suggest that cold- and clock-regulated gene expression are integrated through regulatory proteins that bind to EE and EEL elements supported by transcription factors acting at ABREL sequences. Bioinformatic analysis indicated that the coupling of EE and EEL motifs with ABREL motifs is highly enriched in cold-induced genes and thus may constitute a DNA regulatory element pair with a significant role in configuring the low-temperature transcriptome.

Aeromonas hydrophila subsp. dhakensis Isolated from Feces, Water and Fish in Mediterranean Spain

PubMed Central

Esteve, Consuelo; Alcaide, Elena; Blasco, María Dolores

2012-01-01

Eight Aeromonas hydrophila-like arabinose-negative isolates from diverse sources (i.e., river freshwater, cooling-system water pond, diseased wild European eels, and human stools) sampled in Valencia (Spain) during 2004–2005, were characterized by 16S rRNA gene sequencing and extensive biochemical testing along with reference strains of most Aeromonas species. These isolates and all reference strains of A. hydrophila subsp. dhakensis and A. aquariorum showed a 16S rRNA sequence similarity of 99.8–100%, and they all shared an identical phenotype. This matched exactly with that of A. hydrophila subsp. dhakensis since all strains displayed positive responses to the Voges-Prokauer test and to the use of dl-lactate. This is the first report of A. hydrophila subsp. dhakensis recovered from environmental samples, and further, from its original isolation in India during 1993–1994. This was accurately identified and segregated from other clinical aeromonads (A. hydrophila subsp. hydrophila, A. caviae, A. veronii biovars veronii and sobria, A. trota, A. schubertii and A. jandaei) by using biochemical key tests. The API 20 E profile for all strains included in A. hydrophila subsp. dhakensis was 7047125. The prevalence of this species in Spanish sources was higher for water (9.4%) than for feces (6%) or eels (1.3%). Isolates recovered as pure cultures from diseased eels were moderately virulent (LD50 of 3.3×106 CFU fish−1) to challenged eels in experimental trials. They were all resistant to ticarcillin, amoxicillin-clavuranic acid, cefoxitin, and imipenem, regardless of its source. Our data point to A. hydrophila subsp. dhakensis as an emerging pathogen for humans and fish in temperate countries. PMID:22472298

Swimming physiology of European silver eels (Anguilla anguilla L.): energetic costs and effects on sexual maturation and reproduction.

PubMed

Palstra, Arjan P; van den Thillart, Guido E E J M

2010-09-01

The European eel migrates 5,000-6,000 km to the Sargasso Sea to reproduce. Because they venture into the ocean in a pre-pubertal state and reproduce after swimming for months, a strong interaction between swimming and sexual maturation is expected. Many swimming trials have been performed in 22 swim tunnels to elucidate their performance and the impact on maturation. European eels are able to swim long distances at a cost of 10-12 mg fat/km which is 4-6 times more efficient than salmonids. The total energy costs of reproduction correspond to 67% of the fat stores. During long distance swimming, the body composition stays the same showing that energy consumption calculations cannot be based on fat alone but need to be compensated for protein oxidation. The optimal swimming speed is 0.61-0.67 m s(-1), which is approximately 60% higher than the generally assumed cruise speed of 0.4 m s(-1) and implies that female eels may reach the Sargasso Sea within 3.5 months instead of the assumed 6 months. Swimming trials showed lipid deposition and oocyte growth, which are the first steps of sexual maturation. To investigate effects of oceanic migration on maturation, we simulated group-wise migration in a large swim-gutter with seawater. These trials showed suppressed gonadotropin expression and vitellogenesis in females, while in contrast continued sexual maturation was observed in silver males. The induction of lipid deposition in the oocytes and the inhibition of vitellogenesis by swimming in females suggest a natural sequence of events quite different from artificial maturation protocols.

Swimming physiology of European silver eels (Anguilla anguilla L.): energetic costs and effects on sexual maturation and reproduction

PubMed Central

van den Thillart, Guido E. E. J. M.

2010-01-01

The European eel migrates 5,000–6,000 km to the Sargasso Sea to reproduce. Because they venture into the ocean in a pre-pubertal state and reproduce after swimming for months, a strong interaction between swimming and sexual maturation is expected. Many swimming trials have been performed in 22 swim tunnels to elucidate their performance and the impact on maturation. European eels are able to swim long distances at a cost of 10–12 mg fat/km which is 4–6 times more efficient than salmonids. The total energy costs of reproduction correspond to 67% of the fat stores. During long distance swimming, the body composition stays the same showing that energy consumption calculations cannot be based on fat alone but need to be compensated for protein oxidation. The optimal swimming speed is 0.61–0.67 m s−1, which is ~60% higher than the generally assumed cruise speed of 0.4 m s−1 and implies that female eels may reach the Sargasso Sea within 3.5 months instead of the assumed 6 months. Swimming trials showed lipid deposition and oocyte growth, which are the first steps of sexual maturation. To investigate effects of oceanic migration on maturation, we simulated group-wise migration in a large swim-gutter with seawater. These trials showed suppressed gonadotropin expression and vitellogenesis in females, while in contrast continued sexual maturation was observed in silver males. The induction of lipid deposition in the oocytes and the inhibition of vitellogenesis by swimming in females suggest a natural sequence of events quite different from artificial maturation protocols. PMID:20390348

Chemical Bonding of AlH3 Hydride by Al-L2,3 Electron Energy-Loss Spectra and First-Principles Calculations

PubMed Central

Tatsumi, Kazuyoshi; Muto, Shunsuke; Ikeda, Kazutaka; Orimo, Shin-Ichi

2012-01-01

In a previous study, we used transmission electron microscopy and electron energy-loss (EEL) spectroscopy to investigate dehydrogenation of AlH3 particles. In the present study, we systematically examine differences in the chemical bonding states of Al-containing compounds (including AlH3) by comparing their Al-L2,3 EEL spectra. The spectral chemical shift and the fine peak structure of the spectra were consistent with the degree of covalent bonding of Al. This finding will be useful for future nanoscale analysis of AlH3 dehydrogenation toward the cell. PMID:28816996

Atomic resolution Z-contrast imaging and energy loss spectroscopy of carbon nanotubes and bundles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lupini, A. R.; Chisholm, M. F.; Puretzky, A. A.; Eres, G.; Melechko, A. V.; Schaaff, G.; Lowndes, D. H.; Geohegan, D. B.; Schittenhelm, H.; Pennycook, S. J.; Wang, Y.; Smalley, R. E.

2002-03-01

Single-wall carbon nanotubes and bundles were studied by a combination of techniques, including conventional imaging and diffraction, atomic resolution Z-contrast imaging in an aberration corrected STEM and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). EELS is ideally suited for the analysis of carbon based structures because of the ability to distinguish between the different forms, specifically nanotubes, graphite, amorphous carbon and diamond. Numerous attempts were made to synthesize crystals of single walled carbon nanotubes, using both solution and vapor deposition of precursor structures directly onto TEM grids for in-situ annealing. The range of structures produced will be discussed.

Pseudocapillaria (Ichthyocapillaria) ophisterni sp. n. (Nematoda : Capillariidae) from the swamp-eel Ophisternon aenigmaticum (Pisces) in Mexico.

PubMed

Moravec, F; Salgado-Maldonado, G; Jiménez-García, I

2000-04-01

A new nematode species, Pseudocapillaria ophisterni sp. n., is described from the intestine and rarely from the stomach of the swamp-eel, Ophisternon aenigmaticum Rosen et Greenwood, from Catemaco Lake, Veracruz, Mexico. In having both caudal lobes in the male interconnected by a distinct dorsal membrane, it belongs to the subgenus Ichthyocapillaria. It differs from the three species in this subgenus mainly in possessing either a distinctly longer spicule or a smaller length of oesophagus relative to body length. It also differs in host type and geographical distribution. P. ophisterni is the first capillariid species reported from synbranchiform fishes.

The effects of hypoxic bradycardia and extracellular HCO3(-)/CO2 on hypoxic performance in the eel heart.

PubMed

Joyce, William; Simonsen, Maj; Gesser, Hans; Wang, Tobias

2016-02-01

During hypoxia, fishes exhibit a characteristic hypoxic bradycardia, the functional significance of which remains debated. Here, we investigated the hypothesis that hypoxic bradycardia primarily safeguards cardiac performance. In preparations from the European eel (Anguilla anguilla), a decrease in stimulation frequency from 40 to 15 beats min(-1), which replicates hypoxic bradycardia in vivo, vastly improved cardiac performance during hypoxia in vitro. As eels display dramatic shifts in extracellular HCO3(-)/CO2, we further investigated the effect this has upon hypoxic cardiac performance. Elevations from 10 mmol l(-1) HCO3(-)/1% CO2 to 40 mmol l(-1) HCO3(-)/4% CO2 had few effects on performance; however, further, but still physiologically relevant, increases to 70 mmol l(-1) HCO3(-)/7% CO2 compromised hypoxia tolerance. We revealed a four-way interaction between HCO3(-)/CO2, contraction frequency, hypoxia and performance over time, whereby the benefit of hypoxic bradycardia was most prolonged at 10 mmol l(-1) HCO3(-)/1% CO2. Together, our data suggest that hypoxic bradycardia greatly benefits cardiac performance, but its significance may be context specific. © 2016. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Characterization of organochlorine pesticides, brominated flame retardants and dioxin-like compounds in shellfish and eel from Fiji.

PubMed

Lal, Vincent; Bridgen, Phil; Votadroka, Waisea; Raju, Rupantri; Aalbersberg, William

2014-09-01

This article gives an overview of a range of persistent organic pollutant chemical levels in shellfish (Batissa violacea and Anadara antiquata) species and eel (Gymnothorax flavimarginatus) from Fiji. As there is limited data in published literature to date, this paper reports first data on a range of persistent organic pollutants and highlights the more prominent POP chemicals present in marine biota in Fiji. A significant number of POP chemicals were detected (e.g. 17 PCDD/PCDF, 12dl-PCBs, organochlorine pesticides and brominated flame retardants), the concentrations found were generally low (e.g. parts per billion level). The low levels of contamination are indicative of a low input from long range and short-range transport as well as few local point sources. Also concentrations of POPs in eel and shellfish from Fiji are low in comparison to wild species in other regions and are within acceptable limits for POP chemicals in fish and fishery products set by the European Union. It describes also results of early studies on basic POPs levels in shellfish in several Pacific Island Countries, which generally show relatively low levels. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

An electric-eel-inspired soft power source from stacked hydrogels.

PubMed

Schroeder, Thomas B H; Guha, Anirvan; Lamoureux, Aaron; VanRenterghem, Gloria; Sept, David; Shtein, Max; Yang, Jerry; Mayer, Michael

2017-12-13

Progress towards the integration of technology into living organisms requires electrical power sources that are biocompatible, mechanically flexible, and able to harness the chemical energy available inside biological systems. Conventional batteries were not designed with these criteria in mind. The electric organ of the knifefish Electrophorus electricus (commonly known as the electric eel) is, however, an example of an electrical power source that operates within biological constraints while featuring power characteristics that include peak potential differences of 600 volts and currents of 1 ampere. Here we introduce an electric-eel-inspired power concept that uses gradients of ions between miniature polyacrylamide hydrogel compartments bounded by a repeating sequence of cation- and anion-selective hydrogel membranes. The system uses a scalable stacking or folding geometry that generates 110 volts at open circuit or 27 milliwatts per square metre per gel cell upon simultaneous, self-registered mechanical contact activation of thousands of gel compartments in series while circumventing power dissipation before contact. Unlike typical batteries, these systems are soft, flexible, transparent, and potentially biocompatible. These characteristics suggest that artificial electric organs could be used to power next-generation implant materials such as pacemakers, implantable sensors, or prosthetic devices in hybrids of living and non-living systems.

An electric-eel-inspired soft power source from stacked hydrogels

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schroeder, Thomas B. H.; Guha, Anirvan; Lamoureux, Aaron; Vanrenterghem, Gloria; Sept, David; Shtein, Max; Yang, Jerry; Mayer, Michael

2017-12-01

Progress towards the integration of technology into living organisms requires electrical power sources that are biocompatible, mechanically flexible, and able to harness the chemical energy available inside biological systems. Conventional batteries were not designed with these criteria in mind. The electric organ of the knifefish Electrophorus electricus (commonly known as the electric eel) is, however, an example of an electrical power source that operates within biological constraints while featuring power characteristics that include peak potential differences of 600 volts and currents of 1 ampere. Here we introduce an electric-eel-inspired power concept that uses gradients of ions between miniature polyacrylamide hydrogel compartments bounded by a repeating sequence of cation- and anion-selective hydrogel membranes. The system uses a scalable stacking or folding geometry that generates 110 volts at open circuit or 27 milliwatts per square metre per gel cell upon simultaneous, self-registered mechanical contact activation of thousands of gel compartments in series while circumventing power dissipation before contact. Unlike typical batteries, these systems are soft, flexible, transparent, and potentially biocompatible. These characteristics suggest that artificial electric organs could be used to power next-generation implant materials such as pacemakers, implantable sensors, or prosthetic devices in hybrids of living and non-living systems.

Shelf-life extension of preservative-free hydrated feed using gamma pasteurization and its effect on growth performance of eel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kim, Dongho; Song, Hyunpa; Lim, Sangyong; Jo, Minho; Song, Duseop; Jo, Cheorun

2012-08-01

Hydrated feed (HF) promotes the growth performance and shortens the feeding time of fish by increasing the efficiency of digestion. However, the shelf-life of HF is a concern due to its relatively higher water content. In this study, radiation pasteurization was applied to improve the shelf-life and microbiological quality of HF for fish farming. Preservative-free HF containing 25% moisture was gamma-irradiated and its microbiological and nutritional properties evaluated in addition to a practical feeding trial carried out using eel. The viable counts of bacteria and fungi in HF were 106 and 104 CFU/g, respectively. All coliform bacteria and yeast in HF were eliminated by irradiation at a dose of 5 kGy, and total aerobic bacteria were eliminated at 10 kGy. The shelf-life of the preservative-free and irradiated (10 kGy) HF was estimated as 6 months under ambient conditions. The nutritional composition of HF was stable up to 10 kGy of irradiation. Based on a feeding trial, it was proven that eel fed HF had about 20% higher growth rate than that fed dried feed.

Trophic specialization drives morphological evolution in sea snakes.

PubMed

Sherratt, Emma; Rasmussen, Arne R; Sanders, Kate L

2018-03-01

Viviparous sea snakes are the most rapidly speciating reptiles known, yet the ecological factors underlying this radiation are poorly understood. Here, we reconstructed dated trees for 75% of sea snake species and quantified body shape (forebody relative to hindbody girth), maximum body length and trophic diversity to examine how dietary specialization has influenced morphological diversification in this rapid radiation. We show that sea snake body shape and size are strongly correlated with the proportion of burrowing prey in the diet. Specialist predators of burrowing eels have convergently evolved a 'microcephalic' morphotype with dramatically reduced forebody relative to hindbody girth and intermediate body length. By comparison, snakes that predominantly feed on burrowing gobies are generally short-bodied and small-headed, but there is no evidence of convergent evolution. The eel specialists also exhibit faster rates of size and shape evolution compared to all other sea snakes, including those that feed on gobies. Our results suggest that trophic specialization to particular burrowing prey (eels) has invoked strong selective pressures that manifest as predictable and rapid morphological changes. Further studies are needed to examine the genetic and developmental mechanisms underlying these dramatic morphological changes and assess their role in sea snake speciation.

X-Ray Microanalysis and Electron Energy Loss Spectrometry in the Analytical Electron Microscope: Review and Future Directions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Goldstein, J. I.; Williams, D. B.

1992-01-01

This paper reviews and discusses future directions in analytical electron microscopy for microchemical analysis using X-ray and Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS). The technique of X-ray microanalysis, using the ratio method and k(sub AB) factors, is outlined. The X-ray absorption correction is the major barrier to the objective of obtaining I% accuracy and precision in analysis. Spatial resolution and Minimum Detectability Limits (MDL) are considered with present limitations of spatial resolution in the 2 to 3 microns range and of MDL in the 0.1 to 0.2 wt. % range when a Field Emission Gun (FEG) system is used. Future directions of X-ray analysis include improvement in X-ray spatial resolution to the I to 2 microns range and MDL as low as 0.01 wt. %. With these improvements the detection of single atoms in the analysis volume will be possible. Other future improvements include the use of clean room techniques for thin specimen preparation, quantification available at the I% accuracy and precision level with light element analysis quantification available at better than the 10% accuracy and precision level, the incorporation of a compact wavelength dispersive spectrometer to improve X-ray spectral resolution, light element analysis and MDL, and instrument improvements including source stability, on-line probe current measurements, stage stability, and computerized stage control. The paper reviews the EELS technique, recognizing that it has been slow to develop and still remains firmly in research laboratories rather than in applications laboratories. Consideration of microanalysis with core-loss edges is given along with a discussion of the limitations such as specimen thickness. Spatial resolution and MDL are considered, recognizing that single atom detection is already possible. Plasmon loss analysis is discussed as well as fine structure analysis. New techniques for energy-loss imaging are also summarized. Future directions in the EELS technique will be the development of new spectrometers and improvements in thin specimen preparation. The microanalysis technique needs to be simplified and software developed so that the EELS technique approaches the relative simplicity of the X-ray technique. Finally, one can expect major improvements in EELS imaging as data storage and processing improvements occur.

Molecular phylogenetics reveals convergent evolution in lower Congo River spiny eels.

PubMed

Alter, S Elizabeth; Brown, Bianca; Stiassny, Melanie L J

2015-10-15

The lower Congo River (LCR) is a region of exceptional species diversity and endemism in the Congo basin, including numerous species of spiny eels (genus Mastacembelus). Four of these exhibit distinctive phenotypes characterized by greatly reduced optic globes deeply embedded into the head (cryptophthalmia) and reduced (or absent) melanin pigmentation, among other characteristics. A strikingly similar cryptophthalmic phenotype is also found in members of a number of unrelated fish families, strongly suggesting the possibility of convergent evolution. However, little is known about the evolutionary processes that shaped diversification in LCR Mastacembelus, their biogeographic origins, or when colonization of the LCR occurred. We sequenced mitochondrial and nuclear genes from Mastacembelus species collected in the lower Congo River, and compared them with other African species and Asian representatives as outgroups. We analyzed the sequence data using Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian phylogenetic inference. Bayesian and Maximum Likelihood phylogenetic analyses, and Bayesian coalescent methods for species tree reconstruction, reveal that endemic LCR spiny eels derive from two independent origins, clearly demonstrating convergent evolution of the cryptophthalmic phenotype. Mastacembelus crassus, M. aviceps, and M. simbi form a clade, allied to species found in southern, eastern and central Africa. Unexpectedly, M. brichardi and brachyrhinus fall within a clade otherwise endemic to Lake Tanganikya (LT) ca. 1500 km east of the LCR. Divergence dating suggests the ages of these two clades of LCR endemics differ markedly. The age of the crassus group is estimated at ~4 Myr while colonization of the LCR by the brichardi-brachyrhinus progenitor was considerably more recent, dated at ~0.5 Myr. The phylogenetic framework of spiny eels presented here, the first to include LCR species, demonstrates that cryptophthalmia and associated traits evolved at least twice in Mastacembelus: once in M. brichardi and at least once in the M. crassus clade. Timing of diversification is broadly consistent with the onset of modern high-energy flow conditions in the LCR and with previous studies of endemic cichlids. The close genetic relationship between M. brichardi and M. brachyrhinus is particularly notable given the extreme difference in phenotype between these species, and additional work is needed to better understand the evolutionary history of diversification in this clade. The findings presented here demonstrate strong, multi-trait convergence in LCR spiny eels, suggesting that extreme selective pressures have shaped numerous phenotypic attributes of the endemic species of this region.

Characterisation of the genomes of four putative vesiculoviruses: tench rhabdovirus, grass carp rhabdovirus, perch rhabdovirus and eel rhabdovirus European X.

PubMed

Stone, David M; Kerr, Rose C; Hughes, Margaret; Radford, Alan D; Darby, Alistair C

2013-11-01

The complete coding sequences were determined for four putative vesiculoviruses isolated from fish. Sequence alignment and phylogenetic analysis based on the predicted amino acid sequences of the five main proteins assigned tench rhabdovirus and grass carp rhabdovirus together with spring viraemia of carp and pike fry rhabdovirus to a lineage that was distinct from the mammalian vesiculoviruses. Perch rhabdovirus, eel virus European X, lake trout rhabdovirus 903/87 and sea trout virus were placed in a second lineage that was also distinct from the recognised genera in the family Rhabdoviridae. Establishment of two new rhabdovirus genera, "Perhabdovirus" and "Sprivivirus", is discussed.

Flowfield measurements in the wake of a robotic lamprey

PubMed Central

Hultmark, Marcus; Leftwich, Megan

2009-01-01

Experiments are reported on the hydrodynamics of a swimming robotic lamprey under conditions of steady swimming and where the thrust exceeds the drag. The motion of the robot was based on the swimming of live lampreys, which is described by an equation similar to that developed for the American eel by Tytell and Lauder (J Exp Biol 207:1825–1841, 2004). For steady swimming, the wake structure closely resembles that of the American eel, where two pairs of same sign vortices are shed each tail beat cycle, giving the wake a 2P structure. Force estimates suggest that the major part of the thrust is produced at or close to the end of the tail. PMID:19946623

Absolute vibrational excitation cross sections for 1-18 eV electron scattering from condensed dimethyl phosphate (DMP)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lemelin, V.; Bass, A. D.; Wagner, J. R.; Sanche, L.

2017-12-01

Absolute cross sections (CSs) for vibrational excitation by 1-18 eV electrons incident on condensed dimethyl phosphate (DMP) were measured with a high-resolution electron energy loss (EEL) spectrometer. Absolute CSs were extracted from EEL spectra of DMP condensed on multilayer film of Ar held at about 20 K under ultra-high vacuum (˜1 × 10-11 Torr). Structures observed in the energy dependence of the CSs around 2, 4, 7, and 12 eV were compared with previous results of gas- and solid-phase experiments and with theoretical studies on dimethyl phosphate and related molecules. These structures were attributed to the formation of shape resonances.

Quantitative determination of the clustered silicon concentration in substoichiometric silicon oxide layer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Spinella, Corrado; Bongiorno, Corrado; Nicotra, Giuseppe

2005-07-25

We present an analytical methodology, based on electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy, which allows us to quantify the clustered silicon concentration in annealed substoichiometric silicon oxide layers, deposited by plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The clustered Si volume fraction was deduced from a fit to the experimental EELS spectrum using a theoretical description proposed to calculate the dielectric function of a system of spherical particles of equal radii, located at random in a host material. The methodology allowed us to demonstrate that the clustered Si concentration is only one half of the excess Si concentration dissolvedmore » in the layer.« less

Electron-impact electronic-state excitation of para-benzoquinone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jones, D. B.; da Costa, R. F.; Kossoski, F.; Varella, M. T. do N.; Bettega, M. H. F.; Ferreira da Silva, F.; Limão-Vieira, P.; García, G.; Lima, M. A. P.; White, R. D.; Brunger, M. J.

2018-03-01

Angle resolved electron energy loss spectra (EELS) for para-benzoquinone (C6H4O2) have been recorded for incident electron energies of 20, 30, and 40 eV. Measured differential cross sections (DCSs) for electronic band features, composed of a combination of energetically unresolved electronic states, are subsequently derived from those EELS. Where possible, the obtained DCSs are compared with those calculated using the Schwinger multichannel method with pseudopotentials. These calculations were performed using a minimum orbital basis single configuration interaction framework at the static exchange plus polarisation level. Here, quite reasonable agreement between the experimental cross sections and the theoretical cross sections for the summation of unresolved states was observed.

Effects of salinity and sea salt type on egg activation, fertilization, buoyancy and early embryology of European eel, Anguilla anguilla.

PubMed

Sørensen, Sune Riis; Butts, Ian Anthony Ernest; Munk, Peter; Tomkiewicz, Jonna

2016-02-01

Improper activation and swelling of in vitro produced eggs of European eel, Anguilla anguilla, has been shown to negatively affect embryonic development and hatching. We investigated this phenomenon by examining the effects of salinity and sea salt type on egg dimensions, cell cleavage patterns and egg buoyancy. Egg diameter after activation, using natural seawater adjusted to different salinities, varied among female eels, but no consistent pattern emerged. Activation salinities between 30-40 practical salinity unit (psu) produced higher quality eggs and generally larger egg diameters. Chorion diameters reached maximal values of 1642 ± 8 μm at 35 psu. A positive relationship was found between egg neutral buoyancy and activation salinity. Nine salt types were investigated as activation and incubation media. Five of these types induced a substantial perivitelline space (PVS), leading to large egg sizes, while the remaining four salt types resulted in smaller eggs. All salt types except NaCl treatments led to high fertilization rates and had no effect on fertilization success as well as egg neutral buoyancies at 7 h post-fertilization. The study points to the importance of considering ionic composition of the media when rearing fish eggs and further studies are encouraged.

Hydrogen ion titrations of the anodic and cathodic haemoglobin components of the European eel Anguilla anguilla.

PubMed

Brauner, C J; Weber, R E

1998-09-01

H+ titrations were conducted on the separated haemoglobin components of eel Anguilla anguilla in both the oxygenated and deoxygenated states. In anodic haemoglobin, the addition of GTP, and to a lesser extent C1-, increased the magnitude of the Haldane effect and shifted its maximum value into the in vivo pH range. Of the 22 histidine residues in the anodic component, only approximately seven were titratable, presumably the beta-chain residues at positions 41, 97, 109 and 146 (helical positions C7, FG4, G11 and HC3, respectively). In cathodic haemoglobin, a small negative Haldane effect was observed at pH values between 6.8 and 8.5 which disappeared in the presence of GTP (molar ratio 3:1 GTP:haemoglobin tetramer). GTP had virtually no effect on the buffer value at fixed oxygenation status, and the lowest buffer value was observed at in vivo pH values. No titratable histidine residues were observed in the cathodic component, indicating that all 14 histidines in this component are buried. We conclude that the anodic component, which constitutes two-thirds of the haemoglobin in the eel, plays the predominant role in CO2 transport and pH homeostasis in vivo.

Fish induced anaphylactic reaction: report of one case.

PubMed

Lin, H Y; Shyur, S D; Fu, J L; Lai, Y C; Lin, J S

1998-01-01

In the past 2 years, a 4 year-old boy has had an anaphylactic reaction whenever he contacted food prepared with fish. The symptoms included intense itching in the throat and eyes, which progressed to generalized urticaria and facial angioedema. This was accompanied by cough, wheezing and dyspnea. Many fish preparations caused these episodes including several different kinds of fish (cod, tuna, salmon, trout, eel...), fish soup, chopsticks contaminated with fish preparations and canned fish. Elevated levels of total serum IgE (224 IU/ml) and specific IgE for cod (93.1 IU/ml), tuna (> 100 IU/ml), salmon (> 100 IU/ml), trout (64.4 IU/ml), mackerel (41.2 IU/ml) and eel (28.1 IU/ml) were found by the Pharmacia CAP system RAST FEIA in our allergy clinic. A skin prick test for mixed fish extracts (contain flounder, cod and halibut) was positive. A fish challenge test for cod, tuna, salmon, trout and eel all showed anaphylactic reactions. His allergic symptoms stabilized gradually after strictly avoiding ingestion of fish and using drug treatment. He also had a similar anaphylactic reaction to frogs. The best treatment for fish allergy is avoidance. Avoidance of fish may need to include both ingestion and inhalation of cooking vapors.

Transcriptomic analysis of the hepatic response to stress in the red cusk-eel (Genypterus chilensis): Insights into lipid metabolism, oxidative stress and liver steatosis

PubMed Central

Aedo, Jorge E.; Zuloaga, Rodrigo; Maldonado, Jonathan; Bastias-Molina, Macarena; Silva, Herman; Meneses, Claudio; Gallardo-Escarate, Cristian; Molina, Alfredo

2017-01-01

Teleosts exhibit a broad divergence in their adaptive response to stress, depending on the magnitude, duration, and frequency of stressors and the species receiving the stimulus. We have previously reported that the red cusk-eel (Genypterus chilensis), an important marine farmed fish, shows a physiological response to stress that results in increased skeletal muscle atrophy mediated by over-expression of components of the ubiquitin proteasome and autophagy-lysosomal systems. To better understand the systemic effects of stress on the red cusk-eel metabolism, the present study assessed the transcriptomic hepatic response to repetitive handling-stress. Using high-throughput RNA-seq, 259 up-regulated transcripts were found, mostly associated with angiogenesis, gluconeogenesis, and triacylglyceride catabolism. Conversely, 293 transcripts were down-regulated, associated to cholesterol biosynthesis, PPARα signaling, fatty acid biosynthesis, and glycolysis. This gene signature was concordant with hepatic metabolite levels and hepatic oxidative damage. Moreover, the increased plasmatic levels of AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AP (alkaline phosphatase), as well as liver histology suggest stress-induced liver steatosis. This study offers an integrative molecular and biochemical analysis of the hepatic response to handling-stress, and reveals unknown aspects of lipid metabolism in a non-model teleost. PMID:28448552

Characterization and electron-energy-loss spectroscopy on NiV and NiMo superlattices

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mahmood, S.H.

1986-01-01

NiV superlattices with periods (A) ranging from 15 to 80 A, and NiMo superlattices with from 14 to 110 A were studied using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Electron Diffraction (ED), Energy-Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) microanalysis, and Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS). Both of these systems have sharp superlattice-to-amorphous (S-A) transitions at about empty set = 17A. Superlattices with empty set around the S-A boundary were found to have large local variations in the in-plane grain sizes. Except for a few isolated regions, the chemical composition of the samples were found to be uniform. In samples prepared at Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), mostmore » places studied with EELS showed changes in the EELS spectrum with decreasing empty set. An observed growth in a plasmon peak at approx. 10ev in both NiV and NiMo as empty set decreased down to 19 A is attributed to excitation of interface plasmons. Consistent with this attribution, the peak height shrank in the amorphous samples. The width of this peak is consistent with the theory. The sift in this peak down to 9 ev with decreasing empty set in NiMo is not understood.« less

Measurement of inelastic cross sections for low-energy electron scattering from DNA bases.

PubMed

Michaud, Marc; Bazin, Marc; Sanche, Léon

2012-01-01

To determine experimentally the absolute cross sections (CS) to deposit various amount of energies into DNA bases by low-energy electron (LEE) impact. Electron energy loss (EEL) spectra of DNA bases were recorded for different LEE impact energies on the molecules deposited at very low coverage on an inert argon (Ar) substrate. Following their normalisation to the effective incident electron current and molecular surface number density, the EEL spectra were then fitted with multiple Gaussian functions in order to delimit the various excitation energy regions. The CS to excite a molecule into its various excitation modes were finally obtained from computing the area under the corresponding Gaussians. The EEL spectra and absolute CS for the electronic excitations of pyrimidine and the DNA bases thymine, adenine, and cytosine by electron impacts below 18 eV were reported for the molecules deposited at about monolayer coverage on a solid Ar substrate. The CS for electronic excitations of DNA bases by LEE impact were found to lie within the 10(216) to 10(218) cm(2) range. The large value of the total ionisation CS indicated that ionisation of DNA bases by LEE is an important dissipative process via which ionising radiation degrades and is absorbed in DNA.

Measurement of inelastic cross sections for low-energy electron scattering from DNA bases

PubMed Central

Michaud, Marc; Bazin, Marc.; Sanche, Léon

2013-01-01

Purpose Determine experimentally the absolute cross sections (CS) to deposit various amount of energies into DNA bases by low-energy electron (LEE) impact. Materials and methods Electron energy loss (EEL) spectra of DNA bases are recorded for different LEE impact energies on the molecules deposited at very low coverage on an inert argon (Ar) substrate. Following their normalisation to the effective incident electron current and molecular surface number density, the EEL spectra are then fitted with multiple Gaussian functions in order to delimit the various excitation energy regions. The CS to excite a molecule into its various excitation modes are finally obtained from computing the area under the corresponding Gaussians. Results The EEL spectra and absolute CS for the electronic excitations of pyrimidine and the DNA bases thymine, adenine, and cytosine by electron impacts below 18 eV are reported for the molecules deposited at about monolayer coverage on a solid Ar substrate. Conclusions The CS for electronic excitations of DNA bases by LEE impact are found to lie within the 10−16 – 10−18 cm2 range. The large value of the total ionisation CS indicates that ionisation of DNA bases by LEE is an important dissipative process via which ionising radiation degrades and is absorbed in DNA. PMID:21615242

Collective modes in CuxTiSe2 measured with meV-resolution EELS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rak, Melinda; Vig, Sean; Husain, Ali; Mitrano, Matteo; Rubeck, Samantha; Kogar, Anshul; Karapetrov, Goran; Morosan, Emilia; Abbamonte, Peter

The charge density wave (CDW) in 1 T-TiSe2 has been widely thought to be the result of an excitonic insulator transition. We recently observed a soft electronic mode in TiSe2 using a new, momentum-resolved electron energy loss spectroscopy (M-EELS) technique, demonstrating a condensation of electron-hole pairs in this material. As TiSe2 is doped with Cu to produce CuxTiSe2, a superconducting dome emerges above x ˜ 0.04. In this talk, I describe how the electronic collective mode evolves with Cu doping. We find that the temperature dependence of the electronic mode reverses as Cu is introduced and that the mode is much broader at low temperature as compared to the undoped material. Additionally, the electronic mode no longer has a positive dispersion at 300 K as described by the Lindhard function, but has a slightly negative dispersion for small momentum transfers. We will discuss the implications of these results for the excitonic insulator transition in TiSe2. This work was supported by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation's EPiQS Initiative through Grant GBMF4542. An early prototype of the M-EELS instrument was supported by the DOE Center for Emergent Superconductivity under Award No. DE-AC02-98CH10886.

Exploring possibilities of band gap measurement with off-axis EELS in TEM.

PubMed

Korneychuk, Svetlana; Partoens, Bart; Guzzinati, Giulio; Ramaneti, Rajesh; Derluyn, Joff; Haenen, Ken; Verbeeck, Jo

2018-06-01

A technique to measure the band gap of dielectric materials with high refractive index by means of energy electron loss spectroscopy (EELS) is presented. The technique relies on the use of a circular (Bessel) aperture and suppresses Cherenkov losses and surface-guided light modes by enforcing a momentum transfer selection. The technique also strongly suppresses the elastic zero loss peak, making the acquisition, interpretation and signal to noise ratio of low loss spectra considerably better, especially for excitations in the first few eV of the EELS spectrum. Simulations of the low loss inelastic electron scattering probabilities demonstrate the beneficial influence of the Bessel aperture in this setup even for high accelerating voltages. The importance of selecting the optimal experimental convergence and collection angles is highlighted. The effect of the created off-axis acquisition conditions on the selection of the transitions from valence to conduction bands is discussed in detail on a simplified isotropic two band model. This opens the opportunity for deliberately selecting certain transitions by carefully tuning the microscope parameters. The suggested approach is experimentally demonstrated and provides good signal to noise ratio and interpretable band gap signals on reference samples of diamond, GaN and AlN while offering spatial resolution in the nm range. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Behaviour of wintering Tundra Swans Cygnus columbianus columbianus at the Eel River delta and Humboldt Bay, California, USA

USGS Publications Warehouse

Black, Jeffrey M.; Gress, Carol; Byers, Jacob W.; Jennings, Emily; Ely, Craig R.

2010-01-01

Tundra Swan Cygnus columbianus columbinanus phenology and behaviour at the Eel River delta and southern Humboldt Bay in northern California, USA, is described. Counts made each January from 1963 onwards peaked at 1,502 swans in 1988. Monthly counts recorded during the 2006/07 and 2008/09 winters peaked in February, at 1,033 and 772 swans respectively. Swans roosted on ephemeral ponds at the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge, on ephemeral ponds within grassland pastures in the vicinity of the Refuge, and perhaps also used the Eel River as a roost. Flights between Refuge roosts and the pastures and ponds occurred in the two hours after sunrise and before dark. In winters 2008/09 and 2009/10, the percentage of cygnets in the flocks was 10.6% and 21.4% respectively, and increased to =31% cygnets each year after most swans had departed from the area in March. Average brood size in 2009/10 was 2.1 cygnets. Daily activities consisted of foraging (44.9% of activities recorded), comfort behaviour (22.1%), locomotion (16.2%) and vigilance (15.5%). Eight neck-collared swans identified in the wintering flock were marked at four locations in different parts of Alaska, up to 1,300 km apart.

Occurrence of perfluorooctanesulfonate and perfluorooctanoic acid and histopathology in eels from north Italian waters.

PubMed

Giari, Luisa; Guerranti, Cristiana; Perra, Guido; Lanzoni, Mattia; Fano, Elisa Anna; Castaldelli, Giuseppe

2015-01-01

A perfluorinated alkylated substances (PFAS) biomonitoring study was conducted in European eel (Anguilla anguilla) in Italy for the first time. Perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) concentrations were assessed in the organs of 35 wild eels from two locations, the highly impacted Po River and the Comacchio Lagoon along the north-western Adriatic coast. PFAS were extracted by ion-pairing liquid extraction procedure and measured using high performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. There were no significant differences in mean PFAS concentrations (p>0.05) between samples from the two sites. PFOS and PFOA were detectable (>0.4ngg(-1) wet weight, w.w) in 73% and 31% of the total samples, respectively. PFOS concentrations ranged from <0.4 to 6.28ngg(-1)w.w and PFOA from <0.4 to 92.77ngg(-1)w.w. The highest PFAS levels were observed in blood and the lowest in muscle. Histology showed macrophage aggregates and hepatocytic vacuolation in some liver samples. No tissue anomalies were seen in the gonads, suggesting no reproductive impairment. The PFAS contamination levels observed were comparable to, or lower than, those reported in fish in other European countries, seeming to indicate that PFAS pollution of the study area is not remarkable. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Counting vacancies and nitrogen-vacancy centers in detonation nanodiamond† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: (1) DND synthesis; (2) HRTEM and EELS characterization methods; (3) EELS simulation method; (4) supporting figures of EELS simulations; (5) soft-X-ray K-edge spectra of the DND; and (6) ab initio N-V center modeling method. See DOI: 10.1039/C6NR01888B Click here for additional data file.

PubMed Central

Barnard, Amanda S.; Dwyer, Christian; Boothroyd, Chris B.; Hocking, Rosalie K.; Ōsawa, Eiji

2016-01-01

Detonation nanodiamond particles (DND) contain highly-stable nitrogen-vacancy (N-V) centers, making it important for quantum-optical and biotechnology applications. However, due to the small particle size, the N-V concentrations are believed to be intrinsically very low, spawning efforts to understand the formation of N-V centers and vacancies, and increase their concentration. Here we show that vacancies in DND can be detected and quantified using simulation-aided electron energy loss spectroscopy. Despite the small particle size, we find that vacancies exist at concentrations of about 1 at%. Based on this experimental finding, we use ab initio calculations to predict that about one fifth of vacancies in DND form N-V centers. The ability to directly detect and quantify vacancies in DND, and predict the corresponding N-V formation probability, has a significant impact to those emerging technologies where higher concentrations and better dispersion of N-V centres are critically required. PMID:27147128

Heliconema anguillae Yamaguti, 1935, a physalopterid nematode found in Japanese eels: taxonomic resurrection with a note on the third-stage larva from intertidal crabs in western Japan.

PubMed

Katahira, Hirotaka; Nagasawa, Kazuya

2015-01-01

A parasitic nematode from the stomach of Japanese eel Anguilla japonica Temminck et Schlegel in western Japan, previously identified as Heliconema longissimum (Ortlepp, 1922), was morphologically re-examined and compared with the previous descriptions. In addition, the third-stage larva of this nematode is described, based on the specimens of encapsuled larvae found in musculature of two crabs, Hemigrapsus sp. and Perisesarma bidens (De Haan), caught from the upper-intertidal zone of the same locality. As a result of the morphological observation, seven pairs of postcloacal papillae in adult males are confirmed. This matches with the character of H. longissimum, but the shape of the fifth postcloacal papillae differs between the present material and H. longissimum; the former possesses pedunculate papillae in the fifth pair whereas the latter has sessile papillae. Since the pedunculate papillae can be found in the original description and the syntype specimens of H. anguillae Yamaguti, 1935 that has been synonymised with H. longissimum, we thus here resurrect H. anguillae as an accepted species. For the life-cycle of the present nematode, littoral crabs, including the two infected species, are likely to be the source of infections for Japanese eels, acting as intermediate hosts.

Using NASA's Giovanni System to Simulate Time-Series Stations in the Outflow Region of California's Eel River

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Acker, James G.; Shen, Suhung; Leptoukh, Gregory G.; Lee, Zhongping

2012-01-01

Oceanographic time-series stations provide vital data for the monitoring of oceanic processes, particularly those associated with trends over time and interannual variability. There are likely numerous locations where the establishment of a time-series station would be desirable, but for reasons of funding or logistics, such establishment may not be feasible. An alternative to an operational time-series station is monitoring of sites via remote sensing. In this study, the NASA Giovanni data system is employed to simulate the establishment of two time-series stations near the outflow region of California s Eel River, which carries a high sediment load. Previous time-series analysis of this location (Acker et al. 2009) indicated that remotely-sensed chl a exhibits a statistically significant increasing trend during summer (low flow) months, but no apparent trend during winter (high flow) months. Examination of several newly-available ocean data parameters in Giovanni, including 8-day resolution data, demonstrates the differences in ocean parameter trends at the two locations compared to regionally-averaged time-series. The hypothesis that the increased summer chl a values are related to increasing SST is evaluated, and the signature of the Eel River plume is defined with ocean optical parameters.

Epigenetic modifications during sex change repress gonadotropin stimulation of cyp19a1a in a teleost ricefield eel (Monopterus albus).

PubMed

Zhang, Yang; Zhang, Shen; Liu, Zhixin; Zhang, Lihong; Zhang, Weimin

2013-08-01

In vertebrates, cytochrome P450 aromatase, encoded by cyp19a1, converts androgens to estrogens and plays important roles in gonadal differentiation and development. The present study examines whether epigenetic mechanisms are involved in cyp19a1a expression and subsequent gonadal development in the hermaphroditic ricefield eel. The expression of the ricefield eel cyp19a1a was stimulated by gonadotropin via the cAMP pathway in the ovary but not the ovotestis or testis. The CpG within the cAMP response element (CRE) of the cyp19a1a promoter was hypermethylated in the ovotestis and testis compared with the ovary. The methylation levels of CpG sites around CRE in the distal region (region II) and around steroidogenic factor 1/adrenal 4 binding protein sites and TATA box in the proximal region (region I) were inversely correlated with cyp19a1a expression during the natural sex change from female to male. In vitro DNA methylation decreased the basal and forskolin-induced activities of cyp19a1a promoter. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays indicated that histone 3 (Lys9) in both regions I and II of the cyp19a1a promoter were deacetylated and trimethylated in the testis, and in contrast to the ovary, phosphorylated CRE-binding protein failed to bind to these regions. Lastly, the DNA methylation inhibitor 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine reversed the natural sex change of ricefield eels. These results suggested that epigenetic mechanisms involving DNA methylation and histone deacetylation and methylation may abrogate the stimulation of cyp19a1a by gonadotropins in a male-specific fashion. This may be a mechanism widely used to drive natural sex change in teleosts as well as gonadal differentiation in other vertebrates.

A physically based algorithm for non-blackbody correction of the cloud top temperature for the convective clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, C.; Luo, Z. J.; Chen, X.; Zeng, X.; Tao, W.; Huang, X.

2012-12-01

Cloud top temperature is a key parameter to retrieval in the remote sensing of convective clouds. Passive remote sensing cannot directly measure the temperature at the cloud tops. Here we explore a synergistic way of estimating cloud top temperature by making use of the simultaneous passive and active remote sensing of clouds (in this case, CloudSat and MODIS). Weighting function of the MODIS 11μm band is explicitly calculated by feeding cloud hydrometer profiles from CloudSat retrievals and temperature and humidity profiles based on ECMWF ERA-interim reanalysis into a radiation transfer model. Among 19,699 tropical deep convective clouds observed by the CloudSat in 2008, the averaged effective emission level (EEL, where the weighting function attains its maximum) is at optical depth 0.91 with a standard deviation of 0.33. Furthermore, the vertical gradient of CloudSat radar reflectivity, an indicator of the fuzziness of convective cloud top, is linearly proportional to, d_{CTH-EEL}, the distance between the EEL of 11μm channel and cloud top height (CTH) determined by the CloudSat when d_{CTH-EEL}<0.6km. Beyond 0.6km, the distance has little sensitivity to the vertical gradient of CloudSat radar reflectivity. Based on these findings, we derive a formula between the fuzziness in the cloud top region, which is measurable by CloudSat, and the MODIS 11μm brightness temperature assuming that the difference between effective emission temperature and the 11μm brightness temperature is proportional to the cloud top fuzziness. This formula is verified using the simulated deep convective cloud profiles by the Goddard Cumulus Ensemble model. We further discuss the application of this formula in estimating cloud top buoyancy as well as the error characteristics of the radiative calculation within such deep-convective clouds.

Predator-prey interactions between Synbranchus marmoratus (Teleostei: Synbranchidae) and Hypsiboas pulchellus tadpoles (Amphibia: Hylidae): importance of lateral line in nocturnal predation and effects of fenitrothion exposure.

PubMed

Junges, Celina M; Lajmanovich, Rafael C; Peltzer, Paola M; Attademo, Andres M; Bassó, Agustín

2010-11-01

Environmental contaminants can disrupt interactions between aquatic species by altering community structure. We explored predator-prey interactions between marbled swamp juvenile eels (Synbranchus marmoratus; predator) and anuran tadpoles (Hypsiboas pulchellus; prey) in relation to two aspects: the importance of lateral line in the predator and whether the absence of light modifies predation rates; and the effect of a sub-lethal concentration of fenitrothion on both predator and prey. Eels were tested under two sensory conditions (lateral line intact and lateral line blocked by cobalt chloride) in dark conditions. Predation rates were evaluated using different treatments that combined predator and prey exposed or not to insecticide. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) activities were also measured in muscle samples of eels and tadpoles to explore whether fenitrothion affects predator and prey differentially. Marbled swamp eels were more efficient in feeding on tadpoles during the night than during the day, showing that lateral line makes an important contribution to prey detection and capture. Regarding pesticide effects, short-term (6 h) exposure to an ecologically relevant fenitrothion dose of 2.5 mg L(-1) altered the predator-prey relationship by changing prey behaviour, reducing prey detection and therefore increasing tadpole survival. At this concentration, the outcome of the predator-prey relationship appears biased in favor of the exposed tadpoles, which were released from predation risk, despite their altered behaviour and the higher inhibition percentages of tail BChE (70%) and AChE (51%) than in control individuals. Our study involving these model species and agrochemicals demonstrates that fenitrothion affected the outcome of a predator-prey relationship. Further studies are needed, in these species and other native amphibians, to investigate the nature of the mechanisms responsible for the adverse effects of pesticides on antipredator behaviour and predation efficiency. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Isotopic signatures, foraging habitats and trophic relationships between fish and seasnakes on the coral reefs of New Caledonia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brischoux, F.; Bonnet, X.; Cherel, Y.; Shine, R.

2011-03-01

A predator's species, sex and body size can influence the types of prey that it consumes, but why? Do such dietary divergences result from differences in foraging habitats, or reflect differential ability to locate, capture or ingest different types of prey? That question is difficult to answer if foraging occurs in places that preclude direct observation. In New Caledonia, amphibious sea kraits ( Laticauda laticaudata and L. saintgironsi) mostly eat eels—but the species consumed differ between snake species and vary with snake body size and sex. Because the snakes capture eels within crevices on the sea floor, it is not possible to observe snake foraging on any quantitative basis. We used stable isotopes to investigate habitat-divergence and ontogenetic shifts in feeding habits of sympatric species of sea kraits. Similarities in δ15 N (~10.5‰) values suggest that the two snake species occupy similar trophic levels in the coral-reef foodweb. However, δ13C values differed among the eight eel species consumed by snakes, as well as between the two snake species, and were linked to habitat types. Specifically, δ13C differed between soft- vs. hard-substrate eel species, and consistently differed between the soft-bottom forager L. laticaudata (~ -14.7‰) and the hard-bottom forager L. saintgironsi (~ -12.5‰). Differences in isotopic signatures within and between the two sea krait species and their prey were consistent with the hypothesis of habitat-based dietary divergence. Isotopic composition varied with body size within each of the snake species and varied with body size within some eel species, reflecting ontogenetic shifts in feeding habits of both the sea kraits and their prey. Our results support the findings of previous studies based on snake stomach contents, indicating that further studies could usefully expand these isotopic analyses to a broader range of trophic levels, fish species and spatial scales.

Temperature induced variation in gene expression of thyroid hormone receptors and deiodinases of European eel (Anguilla anguilla) larvae.

PubMed

Politis, S N; Servili, A; Mazurais, D; Zambonino-Infante, J-L; Miest, J J; Tomkiewicz, J; Butts, I A E

2018-04-01

Thyroid hormones (THs) are key regulators of growth, development, and metabolism in vertebrates and influence early life development of fish. TH is produced in the thyroid gland (or thyroid follicles) mainly as T4 (thyroxine), which is metabolized to T3 (3,5,3'-triiodothyronine) and T2 (3,5-diiodothyronine) by deiodinase (DIO) enzymes in peripheral tissues. The action of these hormones is mostly exerted by binding to a specific nuclear thyroid hormone receptor (THR). In this study, we i) cloned and characterized thr sequences, ii) investigated the expression pattern of the different subtypes of thrs and dios, and iii) studied how temperature affects the expression of those genes in artificially produced early life history stages of European eel (Anguilla anguilla), reared in different thermal regimes (16, 18, 20 and 22 °C) from hatch until first-feeding. We identified 2 subtypes of thr (thrα and thrβ) with 2 isoforms each (thrαA, thrαB, thrβA, thrβB) and 3 subtypes of deiodinases (dio1, dio2, dio3). All thr genes identified showed high similarity to the closely related Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica). We found that all genes investigated in this study were affected by larval age (in real time or at specific developmental stages), temperature, and/or their interaction. More specifically, the warmer the temperature the earlier the expression response of a specific target gene. In real time, the expression profiles appeared very similar and only shifted with temperature. In developmental time, gene expression of all genes differed across selected developmental stages, such as at hatch, during teeth formation or at first-feeding. Thus, we demonstrate that thrs and dios show sensitivity to temperature and are involved in and during early life development of European eel. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Genome-wide analysis of brain and gonad transcripts reveals changes of key sex reversal-related genes expression and signaling pathways in three stages of Monopterus albus.

PubMed

Chi, Wei; Gao, Yu; Hu, Qing; Guo, Wei; Li, Dapeng

2017-01-01

The natural sex reversal severely affects the sex ratio and thus decreases the productivity of the rice field eel (Monopterus albus). How to understand and manipulate this process is one of the major issues for the rice field eel stocking. So far the genomics and transcriptomics data available for this species are still scarce. Here we provide a comprehensive study of transcriptomes of brain and gonad tissue in three sex stages (female, intersex and male) from the rice field eel to investigate changes in transcriptional level during the sex reversal process. Approximately 195 thousand unigenes were generated and over 44.4 thousand were functionally annotated. Comparative study between stages provided multiple differentially expressed genes in brain and gonad tissue. Overall 4668 genes were found to be of unequal abundance between gonad tissues, far more than that of the brain tissues (59 genes). These genes were enriched in several different signaling pathways. A number of 231 genes were found with different levels in gonad in each stage, with several reproduction-related genes included. A total of 19 candidate genes that could be most related to sex reversal were screened out, part of these genes' expression patterns were validated by RT-qPCR. The expression of spef2, maats1, spag6 and dmc1 were abundant in testis, but was barely detected in females, while the 17β-hsd12, zpsbp3, gal3 and foxn5 were only expressed in ovary. This study investigated the complexity of brain and gonad transcriptomes in three sex stages of the rice field eel. Integrated analysis of different gene expression and changes in signaling pathways, such as PI3K-Akt pathway, provided crucial data for further study of sex transformation mechanisms.

A high-resolution analytical scanning transmission electron microscopy study of the early stages of spinodal decomposition in binary Fe–Cr

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Westraadt, J.E., E-mail: johan.westraadt@nmmu.ac.za; Olivier, E.J.; Neethling, J.H.

2015-11-15

Spinodal decomposition (SD) is an important phenomenon in materials science and engineering. For example, it is considered to be responsible for the 475 °C embrittlement of stainless steels comprising the bcc (ferrite) or bct (martensite) phases. Structural characterization of the evolving minute nano-scale concentration fluctuations during SD in the Fe–Cr system is, however, a notable challenge, and has mainly been considered accessible via atom probe tomography (APT) and small-angle neutron scattering. The standard tool for nanostructure characterization, viz. transmission electron microscopy (TEM), has only been successfully applied to late stages of SD when embrittlement is already severe. However, we heremore » demonstrate that the structural evolution in the early stages of SD in binary Fe–Cr, and alloys based on the binary, are accessible via analytical scanning TEM. An Fe–36 wt% Cr alloy aged at 500 °C for 1, 10 and 100 h is investigated using an aberration-corrected microscope and it is found that highly coherent and interconnected Cr-rich regions develop. The wavelength of decomposition is rather insensitive to the sample thickness and it is quantified to 2, 3 and 6 nm after ageing for 1, 10 and 100 h, which is in reasonable agreement with prior APT analysis. The concentration amplitude is more sensitive to the sample thickness and acquisition parameters but the TEM analysis is in good agreement with APT analysis for the longest ageing time. These findings open up for combinatorial TEM studies where both local crystallography and chemistry is required. - Highlights: • STEM-EELS analysis was successfully applied to resolve early stage SD in Fe–Cr. • Compositional wavelength measured with STEM-EELS compares well to previous ATP studies. • Compositional amplitude measured with STEM-EELS is a function of experimental parameters. • STEM-EELS allows for combinatorial studies of SD using complementary techniques.« less

Electron Spectroscopy Studies of Iron, Iron Sulfides and Supported Iron Surfaces: Chemisorption of Simple Gases.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Yiu Chung

EELS was used to investigate the chemisorption of oxygen and carbon on iron. The EELS spectra of oxidized iron show characteristic features with strong enhancement of the interband transitions involving the Fe 3d band (4.6 and 7.5 eV) and moderate enhancement of the M(,2,3) transition doublet (54.4 and 58.2 eV). The changes in the electron energy loss structures with an overlayer of graphitic or carbidic carbon were investigated. The adsorption and growth of iron on Ni(100) has been studied using the combined techniques of LEED and EELS. Initially iron grows by a layer-by-layer mechanism for the first few layers. High iron coverages result in the observation of complex LEED patterns with satellites around the main (1 x 1) diffraction sports. This is due to the formation of b.c.c. Fe(110) crystallites arranged in domains with different orientations. EELS studies show the presence of three stages in the growth of iron on Ni(100): low-coverage, film-like and bulk-like. Auger and EELS were used to study the iron sulfide (FeS(,2), Fe(,7)S(,8) and FeS) surfaces. A characteristic M(,2,3) VV Auger doublet with a separation of 5.0 eV was observed on the sulfides. An assignment of the electron energy loss peaks was made based on the energy dependence of the loss peaks and previous photoemission results. The effect of argon ion bombardment was studied. Peaks with strong iron and sulfur character were observed. Heating the damaged sulfides results in reconstruction of the sulfide surfaces. The reactions of the sulfides with simple gases, such as H(,2), CO, CH(,4), C(,2)H(,4), NH(,3) and O(,2) were also studied. Using XPS, the chemisorption of SO(,2) on CaO(100) has been studied. The chemical state of sulfur has been identified as that of sulfate. The kinetics of SO(,2) chemisorption on CaO are discussed. The binding states of Fe and Na on CaO were determined to be Fe('2+) and Na('+) respectively. At low Fe or Na coverages (< 0.5 ML), there is a large increase in the rate of sulfate formation at low SO(,2) exposures (< 3 L). This increase is explained by the 'activation' of SO(,2) chemisorption sites by Fe or Na adatoms.

Beyond the angle of repose: A review and synthesis of landslide processes in response to rapid uplift, Eel River, Northern California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Roering, Joshua J.; Mackey, Benjamin H.; Handwerger, Alexander L.; Booth, Adam M.; Schmidt, David A.; Bennett, Georgina L.; Cerovski-Darriau, Corina

2015-05-01

In mountainous settings, increases in rock uplift are often followed by a commensurate uptick in denudation as rivers incise and steepen hillslopes, making them increasingly prone to landsliding as slope angles approach a limiting value. For decades, the threshold slope model has been invoked to account for landslide-driven increases in sediment flux that limit topographic relief, but the manner by which slope failures organize themselves spatially and temporally in order for erosion to keep pace with rock uplift has not been well documented. Here, we review past work and present new findings from remote sensing, cosmogenic radionuclides, suspended sediment records, and airborne lidar data, to decipher patterns of landslide activity and geomorphic processes related to rapid uplift along the northward-migrating Mendocino Triple Junction in Northern California. From historical air photos and airborne lidar, we estimated the velocity and sediment flux associated with active, slow-moving landslides (or earthflows) in the mélange- and argillite-dominated Eel River watershed using the downslope displacement of surface markers such as trees and shrubs. Although active landslides that directly convey sediment into the channel network account for only 7% of the landscape surface, their sediment flux amounts to more than 50% of the suspended load recorded at downstream sediment gaging stations. These active slides tend to exhibit seasonal variations in velocity as satellite-based interferometry has demonstrated that rapid acceleration commences within 1 to 2 months of the onset of autumn rainfall events before slower deceleration ensues in the spring and summer months. Curiously, this seasonal velocity pattern does not appear to vary with landslide size, suggesting that complex hydrologic-mechanical feedbacks (rather than 1-D pore pressure diffusion) may govern slide dynamics. A new analysis of 14 yrs of discharge and sediment concentration data for the Eel River indicates that the characteristic mid-winter timing of earthflow acceleration corresponds with increased suspended concentration values, suggesting that the seasonal onset of landslide motion each year may be reflected in the export of sediments to the continental margin. The vast majority of active slides exhibit gullied surfaces and the gully networks, which are also seasonally active, may facilitate sediment export although the proportion of material produced by this pathway is poorly known. Along Kekawaka Creek, a prominent tributary to the Eel River, new analyses of catchment-averaged erosion rates derived from cosmogenic radionuclides reveal rapid erosion (0.76 mm/yr) below a prominent knickpoint and slower erosion (0.29 mm/yr) upstream. Such knickpoints are frequently observed in Eel tributaries and are usually comprised of massive (> 10 m) interlocking resistant boulders that likely persist in the landscape for long periods of time (> 105 yr). Upstream of these knickpoints, active landslides tend to be less frequent and average slope angles are slightly gentler than in downstream areas, which indicates that landslide density and average slope angle appear to increase with erosion rate. Lastly, we synthesize evidence for the role of large, catastrophic landslides in regulating sediment flux and landscape form. The emergence of resistant blocks within the mélange bedrock has promoted large catastrophic slides that have dammed the Eel River and perhaps generated outburst events in the past. The frequency and impact of these landslide dams likely depend on the spatial and size distributions of resistant blocks relative to the width and drainage area of adjacent valley networks. Overall, our findings demonstrate that landslides within the Eel River catchment do not occur randomly, but instead exhibit spatial and temporal patterns related to baselevel lowering, climate forcing, and lithologic variations. Combined with recent landscape evolution models that incorporate landslides, these results provide predictive capability for estimating erosion rates and managing hazards in mountainous regions.

Role of the kinematics of probing electrons in electron energy-loss spectroscopy of solid surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nazarov, V. U.; Silkin, V. M.; Krasovskii, E. E.

2016-01-01

Inelastic scattering of electrons incident on a solid surface is determined by two properties: (i) electronic response of the target system and (ii) the detailed quantum-mechanical motion of the projectile electron inside and in the vicinity of the target. We emphasize the equal importance of the second ingredient, pointing out the fundamental limitations of the conventionally used theoretical description of the electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) in terms of the "energy-loss functions." Our approach encompasses the dipole and impact scattering as specific cases, with the emphasis on the quantum-mechanical treatment of the probe electron. Applied to the high-resolution EELS of Ag surface, our theory largely agrees with recent experiments, while some instructive exceptions are rationalized.

Trends in the suspended-sediment yields of coastal rivers of northern California, 1955–2010

USGS Publications Warehouse

Warrick, J.A.; Madej, Mary Ann; Goñi, M. A.; Wheatcroft, R.A.

2013-01-01

Time-dependencies of suspended-sediment discharge from six coastal watersheds of northern California – Smith River, Klamath River, Trinity River, Redwood Creek, Mad River, and Eel River – were evaluated using monitoring data from 1955 to 2010. Suspended-sediment concentrations revealed time-dependent hysteresis and multi-year trends. The multi-year trends had two primary patterns relative to river discharge: (i) increases in concentration resulting from both land clearing from logging and the flood of record during December 1964 (water year 1965), and (ii) continual decreases in concentration during the decades following this flood. Data from the Eel River revealed that changes in suspended-sediment concentrations occurred for all grain-size fractions, but were most pronounced for the sand fraction. Because of these changes, the use of bulk discharge-concentration relationships (i.e., “sediment rating curves”) without time-dependencies in these relationships resulted in substantial errors in sediment load estimates, including 2.5-fold over-prediction of Eel River sediment loads since 1979. We conclude that sediment discharge and sediment discharge relationships (such as sediment rating curves) from these coastal rivers have varied substantially with time in response to land use and climate. Thus, the use of historical river sediment data and sediment rating curves without considerations for time-dependent trends may result in significant errors in sediment yield estimates from the globally-important steep, small watersheds.

Evolutionary dynamics and genetic diversity from three genes of Anguillid rhabdovirus.

PubMed

Bellec, Laure; Cabon, Joelle; Bergmann, Sven; de Boisséson, Claire; Engelsma, Marc; Haenen, Olga; Morin, Thierry; Olesen, Niels Jørgen; Schuetze, Heike; Toffan, Anna; Way, Keith; Bigarré, Laurent

2014-11-01

Wild freshwater eel populations have dramatically declined in recent past decades in Europe and America, partially through the impact of several factors including the wide spread of infectious diseases. The anguillid rhabdoviruses eel virus European X (EVEX) and eel virus American (EVA) potentially play a role in this decline, even if their real contribution is still unclear. In this study, we investigate the evolutionary dynamics and genetic diversity of anguiillid rhabdoviruses by analysing sequences from the glycoprotein, nucleoprotein and phosphoprotein (P) genes of 57 viral strains collected from seven countries over 40 years using maximum-likelihood and Bayesian approaches. Phylogenetic trees from the three genes are congruent and allow two monophyletic groups, European and American, to be clearly distinguished. Results of nucleotide substitution rates per site per year indicate that the P gene is expected to evolve most rapidly. The nucleotide diversity observed is low (2-3 %) for the three genes, with a significantly higher variability within the P gene, which encodes multiple proteins from a single genomic RNA sequence, particularly a small C protein. This putative C protein is a potential molecular marker suitable for characterization of distinct genotypes within anguillid rhabdoviruses. This study provides, to our knowledge, the first molecular characterization of EVA, brings new insights to the evolutionary dynamics of two genotypes of Anguillid rhabdovirus, and is a baseline for further investigations on the tracking of its spread.

Wide-Scope Screening Method for Multiclass Veterinary Drug Residues in Fish, Shrimp, and Eel Using Liquid Chromatography-Quadrupole High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry.

PubMed

Turnipseed, Sherri B; Storey, Joseph M; Lohne, Jack J; Andersen, Wendy C; Burger, Robert; Johnson, Aaron S; Madson, Mark R

2017-08-30

A screening method for veterinary drug residues in fish, shrimp, and eel using LC with a high-resolution MS instrument has been developed and validated. The method was optimized for over 70 test compounds representing a variety of veterinary drug classes. Tissues were extracted by vortex mixing with acetonitrile acidified with 2% acetic acid and 0.2% p-toluenesulfonic acid. A centrifuged portion of the extract was passed through a novel solid phase extraction cartridge designed to remove interfering matrix components from tissue extracts. The eluent was then evaporated and reconstituted for analysis. Data were collected with a quadrupole-Orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometer using both nontargeted and targeted acquisition methods. Residues were detected on the basis of the exact mass of the precursor and a product ion along with isotope pattern and retention time matching. Semiquantitative data analysis compared MS 1 signal to a one-point extracted matrix standard at a target testing level. The test compounds were detected and identified in salmon, tilapia, catfish, shrimp, and eel extracts fortified at the target testing levels. Fish dosed with selected analytes and aquaculture samples previously found to contain residues were also analyzed. The screening method can be expanded to monitor for an additional >260 veterinary drugs on the basis of exact mass measurements and retention times.

Distribution of brominated flame retardants and dechloranes between sediments and benthic fish--A comparison of a freshwater and marine habitat.

PubMed

Sühring, Roxana; Busch, Friederike; Fricke, Nicolai; Kötke, Danijela; Wolschke, Hendrik; Ebinghaus, Ralf

2016-01-15

A total of 53 halogenated flame retardants (HFRs) were analysed in sediments, European eels and dabs from both freshwater and marine sampling stations in the German Bight and the river Elbe. Classic HFRs, such as polybrominated diphenylethers (PBDEs), were the highest concentrated HFRs in eels as well as in most dabs (apart from 1,2,5,6-tetrabromocyclooctane (TBCO)). In sediments, on the other hand, alternate BFRs and especially dechloranes dominated the contamination pattern. Dabs were still found to be statistically representative for the contamination patterns and relative magnitude in sediments from their respective habitats. Contamination patterns in eels seemed to be more driven by the contamination situation in the food chain or historical contamination of their habitat. Unsuspectedly the alternate flame retardant TBCO was found in comparably high concentrations (up to 12 ng g(-1) ww) in dabs from two sampling stations as well as in sediments from these stations (up to 1.2 ng g(-1) dw). It could not be detected in any other analysed fish or sediment samples, indicating a localised contamination source in the area. This study provides information on HFR contamination patterns and behaviour in both marine and freshwater sediments and their potential role as contamination source for benthic fish. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Experimental investigation of efficient locomotion of underwater snake robots for lateral undulation and eel-like motion patterns.

PubMed

Kelasidi, Eleni; Liljebäck, Pål; Pettersen, Kristin Y; Gravdahl, Jan T

2015-01-01

Underwater snake robots offer many interesting capabilities for underwater operations. The long and slender structure of such robots provide superior capabilities for access through narrow openings and within confined areas. This is interesting for inspection and monitoring operations, for instance within the subsea oil and gas industry and within marine archeology. In addition, underwater snake robots can provide both inspection and intervention capabilities and are thus interesting candidates for the next generation inspection and intervention AUVs. Furthermore, bioinspired locomotion through oscillatory gaits, like lateral undulation and eel-like motion, is interesting from an energy efficiency point of view. Increasing the motion efficiency in terms of the achieved forward speed by improving the method of propulsion is a key issue for underwater robots. Moreover, energy efficiency is one of the main challenges for long-term autonomy of these systems. In this study, we will consider both these two aspects of efficiency. This paper considers the energy efficiency of swimming snake robots by presenting and experimentally investigating fundamental properties of the velocity and the power consumption of an underwater snake robot for both lateral undulation and eel-like motion patterns. In particular, we investigate the relationship between the parameters of the gait patterns, the forward velocity and the energy consumption for different motion patterns. The simulation and experimental results are seen to support the theoretical findings.

Eighty years of food-web response to interannual variation in discharge recorded in river diatom frustules from an ocean sediment core

PubMed Central

Sculley, John B.; Lowe, Rex L.; Nittrouer, Charles A.; Drexler, Tina M.; Power, Mary E.

2017-01-01

Little is known about the importance of food-web processes as controls of river primary production due to the paucity of both long-term studies and of depositional environments which would allow retrospective fossil analysis. To investigate how freshwater algal production in the Eel River, northern California, varied over eight decades, we quantified siliceous shells (frustules) of freshwater diatoms from a well-dated undisturbed sediment core in a nearshore marine environment. Abundances of freshwater diatom frustules exported to Eel Canyon sediment from 1988 to 2001 were positively correlated with annual biomass of Cladophora surveyed over these years in upper portions of the Eel basin. Over 28 years of contemporary field research, peak algal biomass was generally higher in summers following bankfull, bed-scouring winter floods. Field surveys and experiments suggested that bed-mobilizing floods scour away overwintering grazers, releasing algae from spring and early summer grazing. During wet years, growth conditions for algae could also be enhanced by increased nutrient loading from the watershed, or by sustained summer base flows. Total annual rainfall and frustule densities in laminae over a longer 83-year record were weakly and negatively correlated, however, suggesting that positive effects of floods on annual algal production were primarily mediated by “top-down” (consumer release) rather than “bottom-up” (growth promoting) controls. PMID:28874576

Detection of Herpesvirus anguillae (AngHV-1) in European eel Anguilla anguilla (L.) originating from northern Poland-assessment of suitability of selected diagnostic methods.

PubMed

Nguyen, Tuan Thuc; Jin, Yeonhwa; Kiełpińska, Jolanta; Bergmann, Sven M; Lenk, Matthias; Panicz, Remigiusz

2017-11-01

The Community Action Plan requests EU member states to implement measures that ensure the recovery of the severely depleted European eel stocks. One of the main threats is posed by Anguillid herpesvirus 1 (AngHV-1) leading to increased mortality in both wild and farmed eels. Following recommendations of the OIE to minimize the risk of obtaining false-negative results, the main aim of the study was to optimize diagnostic methods for AngHV-1 detection using conventional PCR, nested PCR and in situ hybridization assay. While 53.3% of the individual organ samples were tested positive for AngHV-1 by PCR, the additional virus analysis via nested PCR revealed that the actual prevalence was 93.3%. In the cell cultivation passages, a cytopathic effect was hardly found in the first two rounds. In the third passage onto cell cultures, a lytic CPE was detected. The identification and confirmation of the viruses obtained from cell cultures as well as directly from the organ tissues were proceeded by PCR, nested PCR and sequencing of the PCR products. While no positive signal was detectable in the first round by PCR using samples from the third cell culture passages, the nested PCR provided weak but visible positive signals. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Association of the sites of heavy metals with nanoscale carbon in a Kentucky electrostatic precipitator fly ash

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

James C. Hower; Uschi M. Graham; Alan Dozier

2008-11-15

A combination of high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (HRTEM-STEM-EELS) was used to study fly ashes produced from the combustion of an eastern Kentucky coal at a southeastern-Kentucky wall-fired pulverized coal utility boiler retrofitted for low-NOx combustion. Fly ash was collected from individual hoppers in each row of the electrostatic precipitators (ESP) pollution-control system, with multiple hoppers sampled within each of the three rows. Temperatures within the ESP array range from about 200 {degree}C at the entry to the first row to <150{degree}C at the exit of the third row. HRTEM-STEM-EELS study demonstrated themore » presence of nanoscale (10 s nm) C agglomerates with typical soot-like appearance and others with graphitic fullerene-like nanocarbon structures. The minute carbon agglomerates are typically juxtaposed and intergrown with slightly larger aluminosilicate spheres and often form an ultrathin halo or deposit on the fly ash particles. The STEM-EELS analyses revealed that the nanocarbon agglomerates host even finer (<3 nm) metal and metal oxide particles. Elemental analysis indicated an association of Hg with the nanocarbon. Arsenic, Se, Pb, Co, and traces of Ti and Ba are often associated with Fe-rich particles within the nanocarbon deposits. 57 refs., 5 figs.« less

Eighty years of food-web response to interannual variation in discharge recorded in river diatom frustules from an ocean sediment core.

PubMed

Sculley, John B; Lowe, Rex L; Nittrouer, Charles A; Drexler, Tina M; Power, Mary E

2017-09-19

Little is known about the importance of food-web processes as controls of river primary production due to the paucity of both long-term studies and of depositional environments which would allow retrospective fossil analysis. To investigate how freshwater algal production in the Eel River, northern California, varied over eight decades, we quantified siliceous shells (frustules) of freshwater diatoms from a well-dated undisturbed sediment core in a nearshore marine environment. Abundances of freshwater diatom frustules exported to Eel Canyon sediment from 1988 to 2001 were positively correlated with annual biomass of Cladophora surveyed over these years in upper portions of the Eel basin. Over 28 years of contemporary field research, peak algal biomass was generally higher in summers following bankfull, bed-scouring winter floods. Field surveys and experiments suggested that bed-mobilizing floods scour away overwintering grazers, releasing algae from spring and early summer grazing. During wet years, growth conditions for algae could also be enhanced by increased nutrient loading from the watershed, or by sustained summer base flows. Total annual rainfall and frustule densities in laminae over a longer 83-year record were weakly and negatively correlated, however, suggesting that positive effects of floods on annual algal production were primarily mediated by "top-down" (consumer release) rather than "bottom-up" (growth promoting) controls.

Direct measurement of ferromagnetic ordering in biaxially strained LaCoO3 thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klie, R. F.; Yuan, T.; Tanase, M.; Yang, G.; Ramasse, Q.

2010-02-01

LaCoO3 undergoes a transition from a nonmagnetic to a paramagnetic semiconductor at 80 K, associated with a spin-state transition of the Co3+ ions. It was proposed that the temperature of the spin-state transition depends strongly on the LaCoO3 lattice parameter, suggesting that strain can stabilize different spin states at different temperatures. By combining atomic-resolution Z-contrast imaging, electron diffraction, and angular-resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) with in situ cooling experiments, we show that epitaxially strained LaCoO3 (001) thin films grown on LaAlO3 (001) do not undergo a low temperature spin-state transition. Our EELS study explores the origins of the ferromagnetic ordering in strained LaCoO3 films.

Electron energy loss spectroscopy techniques for the study of microbial chromium(VI) reduction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Daulton, Tyrone L.; Little, Brenda J.; Lowe, Kristine; Jones-Meehan, Joanne

2002-01-01

Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) techniques were used to determine oxidation state, at high spatial resolution, of chromium associated with the metal-reducing bacteria, Shewanella oneidensis, in anaerobic cultures containing Cr(VI)O4(2-). These techniques were applied to fixed cells examined in thin section by conventional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) as well as unfixed, hydrated bacteria examined by environmental cell (EC)-TEM. Two distinct populations of bacteria were observed by TEM: bacteria exhibiting low image contrast and bacteria exhibiting high contrast in their cell membrane (or boundary) structure which was often encrusted with high-contrast precipitates. Measurements by EELS demonstrated that cell boundaries became saturated with low concentrations of Cr and the precipitates encrusting bacterial cells contained a reduced form of Cr in oxidation state + 3 or lower.

Signatures of exciton condensation in a transition metal dichalcogenide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kogar, Anshul; Rak, Melinda S.; Vig, Sean; Husain, Ali A.; Flicker, Felix; Joe, Young Il; Venema, Luc; MacDougall, Greg J.; Chiang, Tai C.; Fradkin, Eduardo; van Wezel, Jasper; Abbamonte, Peter

2017-12-01

Bose condensation has shaped our understanding of macroscopic quantum phenomena, having been realized in superconductors, atomic gases, and liquid helium. Excitons are bosons that have been predicted to condense into either a superfluid or an insulating electronic crystal. Using the recently developed technique of momentum-resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy (M-EELS), we studied electronic collective modes in the transition metal dichalcogenide semimetal 1T-TiSe2. Near the phase-transition temperature (190 kelvin), the energy of the electronic mode fell to zero at nonzero momentum, indicating dynamical slowing of plasma fluctuations and crystallization of the valence electrons into an exciton condensate. Our study provides compelling evidence for exciton condensation in a three-dimensional solid and establishes M-EELS as a versatile technique sensitive to valence band excitations in quantum materials.

New (benz)imidazolopyridino tacrines as nonhepatotoxic, cholinesterase inhibitors for Alzheimer disease.

PubMed

Boulebd, Houssem; Ismaili, Lhassane; Martin, Helene; Bonet, Alexandre; Chioua, Mourad; Marco Contelles, José; Belfaitah, Ali

2017-05-01

Due to the multifactorial nature of Alzheimer's disease, there is an urgent search for new more efficient, multitarget-directed drugs. This paper describes the synthesis, antioxidant and in vitro biological evaluation of ten (benz)imidazopyridino tacrines (7-16), showing less toxicity than tacrine at high doses, and potent cholinesterase inhibitory capacity, in the low micromolar range. Among them, compound 10 is a nonhepatotoxic tacrine at 1000 mM, showing moderate, but totally selective electric eel acetylcholinesterase inhibition, whereas molecule 16 is twofold less toxic than tacrine at 1000 μM, showing moderate and almost equipotent inhibition for electric eel acetylcholinesterase and equine butyrylcholinesterase. (Benz)imidazopyridino tacrines (7-16) have been identified as a new and promising type of tacrines for the potential treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

The temperature-dependency of the optical band gap of ZnO measured by electron energy-loss spectroscopy in a scanning transmission electron microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Granerød, Cecilie S.; Galeckas, Augustinas; Johansen, Klaus Magnus; Vines, Lasse; Prytz, Øystein

2018-04-01

The optical band gap of ZnO has been measured as a function of temperature using Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) in a (Scanning) Transmission Electron Microscope ((S)TEM) from approximately 100 K up towards 1000 K. The band gap narrowing shows a close to linear dependency for temperatures above 250 K and is accurately described by Varshni, Bose-Einstein, Pässler and Manoogian-Woolley models. Additionally, the measured band gap is compared with both optical absorption measurements and photoluminescence data. STEM-EELS is here shown to be a viable technique to measure optical band gaps at elevated temperatures, with an available temperature range up to 1500 K and the benefit of superior spatial resolution.

Electronic structure and fine structural features of the air-grown UNxOy on nitrogen-rich uranium nitride

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Long, Zhong; Zeng, Rongguang; Hu, Yin; Liu, Jing; Wang, Wenyuan; Zhao, Yawen; Luo, Zhipeng; Bai, Bin; Wang, Xiaofang; Liu, Kezhao

2018-06-01

Oxide formation on surface of nitrogen-rich uranium nitride film/particles was investigated using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), auger electron spectroscopy (AES), aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) coupled with electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). XPS and AES studies indicated that the oxidized layer on UN2-x film is ternary compound uranium oxynitride (UNxOy) in 5-10 nm thickness. TEM/HAADF-STEM and EELS studies revealed the UNxOy crystallizes in the FCC CaF2-type structure with the lattice parameter close to the CaF2-type UN2-x matrix. The work can provide further information to the oxidation mechanism of uranium nitride.

A new deepwater species of the snake eel genus Ophichthus (Anguilliformes: Ophichthidae) from North Carolina

USGS Publications Warehouse

McCosker, J.E.; Ross, Steve W.

2007-01-01

Ophichthus brevirostris, a new species of snake eel, subfamily Ophichthinae, is described from a specimen trawled in deep water (406-440 m) off North Carolina. It is distinguished from its congeners by the following combination of characters: large orbit; filamentous pectoral fin; two preopercular pores; short snout; minute dentition; body coloration; and vertebral formula (13/60/153). It is most similar to Ophichthus arneutes from the Gala??pagos, O. genie from New Caledonia and Maldives, and two undescribed congeners from Seychelles and Tonga. It differs from them in its dorsalfin origin, dentition, and vertebral numbers. Its characteristics do not agree with that of any of the 15 known leptocephali of western Atlantic relatives. ?? 2007 by the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists.

Adsorbed states of chlorophenol on Cu(110) and controlled switching of single-molecule junctions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Okuyama, H., E-mail: hokuyama@kuchem.kyoto-u.ac.jp; Kitaguchi, Y.; Hattori, T.

A molecular junction of substituted benzene (chlorophenol) is fabricated and controlled by using a scanning tunneling microscope (STM). Prior to the junction formation, the bonding geometry of the molecule on the surface is characterized by STM and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). EELS shows that the OH group of chlorophenol is dissociated on Cu(110) and that the molecule is bonded nearly flat to the surface via an O atom, with the Cl group intact. We demonstrate controlled contact of an STM tip to the “available” Cl group and lift-up of the molecule while it is anchored to the surface viamore » an O atom. The asymmetric bonding motifs of the molecule to the electrodes allow for reversible control of the junction.« less

Flood inundation maps for the Wabash and Eel Rivers at Logansport, Indiana

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fowler, Kathleen K.

2014-01-01

Digital flood-inundation maps for an 8.3-mile reach of the Wabash River and a 7.6-mile reach of the Eel River at Logansport, Indiana (Ind.), were created by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in cooperation with the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs. The inundation maps, which can be accessed through the USGS Flood Inundation Mapping Science Web site at http://water.usgs.gov/osw/flood_inundation/, depict estimates of the areal extent and depth of flooding corresponding to selected water levels (stages) at USGS streamgage Wabash River at Logansport, Ind. (sta. no. 03329000) and USGS streamgage Eel River near Logansport, Ind. (sta. no. 03328500). Current conditions for estimating near-real-time areas of inundation using USGS streamgage information may be obtained on the Internet at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/. In addition, information has been provided to the National Weather Service (NWS) for incorporation into their Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS) flood warning system http:/water.weather.gov/ahps/). The NWS forecasts flood hydrographs at many places that are often colocated with USGS streamgages. NWS-forecasted peak-stage information may be used in conjunction with the maps developed in this study to show predicted areas of flood inundation. For this study, flood profiles were computed for the stream reaches by means of a one-dimensional step-backwater model developed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The hydraulic model was calibrated by using the most current stage-discharge relations at USGS streamgages 03329000, Wabash River at Logansport, Ind., and 03328500, Eel River near Logansport, Ind. The calibrated hydraulic model was then used to determine five water-surface profiles for flood stage at 1-foot intervals referenced to the Wabash River streamgage datum, and four water-surface profiles for flood stages at 1-foot intervals referenced to the Eel River streamgage datum. The stages range from bankfull to approximately the highest stages that have occurred since 1967 when three flood control dams were built upstream of Logansport, Ind. The simulated water-surface profiles were then combined with a geographic information system (GIS) digital elevation model (DEM, derived from Light Detection and Ranging [lidar] data having a 0.37-foot vertical accuracy and 3.9-foot horizontal resolution) in order to delineate the area flooded at each stage. The availability of these maps, along with information available on the Internet regarding current stages from the USGS streamgages at Logansport, Ind., and forecasted stream stages from the NWS, provides emergency management personnel and residents with information that is critical for flood response activities such as evacuations and road closures, as well as for post flood recovery efforts.

Salinity reduction benefits European eel larvae: Insights at the morphological and molecular level.

PubMed

Politis, Sebastian N; Mazurais, David; Servili, Arianna; Zambonino-Infante, Jose-Luis; Miest, Joanna J; Tomkiewicz, Jonna; Butts, Ian A E

2018-01-01

European eel (Anguilla anguilla) is a euryhaline species, that has adapted to cope with both, hyper- and hypo-osmotic environments. This study investigates the effect of salinity, from a morphological and molecular point of view on European eel larvae reared from 0 to 12 days post hatch (dph). Offspring reared in 36 practical salinity units (psu; control), were compared with larvae reared in six scenarios, where salinity was decreased on 0 or 3 dph and in rates of 1, 2 or 4 psu/day, towards iso-osmotic conditions. Results showed that several genes relating to osmoregulation (nkcc2α, nkcc2β, aqp1dup, aqpe), stress response (hsp70, hsp90), and thyroid metabolism (thrαA, thrαB, thrβB, dio1, dio2, dio3) were differentially expressed throughout larval development, while nkcc1α, nkcc2β, aqp3, aqp1dup, aqpe, hsp90, thrαA and dio3 showed lower expression in response to the salinity reduction. Moreover, larvae were able to keep energy metabolism related gene expression (atp6, cox1) at stable levels, irrespective of the salinity reduction. As such, when reducing salinity, an energy surplus associated to reduced osmoregulation demands and stress (lower nkcc, aqp and hsp expression), likely facilitated the observed increased survival, improved biometry and enhanced growth efficiency. Additionally, the salinity reduction decreased the amount of severe deformities such as spinal curvature and emaciation but also induced an edematous state of the larval heart, resulting in the most balanced mortality/deformity ratio when salinity was decreased on 3 dph and at 2 psu/day. However, the persistency of the pericardial edema and if or how it represents an obstacle in further larval development needs to be further clarified. In conclusion, this study clearly showed that salinity reduction regimes towards iso-osmotic conditions facilitated the European eel pre-leptocephalus development and revealed the existence of highly sensitive and regulated osmoregulation processes at such early life stage of this species.

Temperature effects on gene expression and morphological development of European eel, Anguilla anguilla larvae

PubMed Central

Mazurais, David; Servili, Arianna; Zambonino-Infante, Jose-Luis; Miest, Joanna J.; Sørensen, Sune R.; Tomkiewicz, Jonna; Butts, Ian A. E.

2017-01-01

Temperature is important for optimization of rearing conditions in aquaculture, especially during the critical early life history stages of fish. Here, we experimentally investigated the impact of temperature (16, 18, 20, 22 and 24°C) on thermally induced phenotypic variability, from larval hatch to first-feeding, and the linked expression of targeted genes [heat shock proteins (hsp), growth hormone (gh) and insulin-like growth factors (igf)] associated to larval performance of European eel, Anguilla anguilla. Temperature effects on larval morphology and gene expression were investigated throughout early larval development (in real time from 0 to 18 days post hatch) and at specific developmental stages (hatch, jaw/teeth formation, and first-feeding). Results showed that hatch success, yolk utilization efficiency, survival, deformities, yolk utilization, and growth rates were all significantly affected by temperature. In real time, increasing temperature from 16 to 22°C accelerated larval development, while larval gene expression patterns (hsp70, hsp90, gh and igf-1) were delayed at cold temperatures (16°C) or accelerated at warm temperatures (20–22°C). All targeted genes (hsp70, hsp90, gh, igf-1, igf-2a, igf-2b) were differentially expressed during larval development. Moreover, expression of gh was highest at 16°C during the jaw/teeth formation, and the first-feeding developmental stages, while expression of hsp90 was highest at 22°C, suggesting thermal stress. Furthermore, 24°C was shown to be deleterious (resulting in 100% mortality), while 16°C and 22°C (~50 and 90% deformities respectively) represent the lower and upper thermal tolerance limits. In conclusion, the high survival, lowest incidence of deformities at hatch, high yolk utilization efficiency, high gh and low hsp expression, suggest 18°C as the optimal temperature for offspring of European eel. Furthermore, our results suggest that the still enigmatic early life history stages of European eel may inhabit the deeper layer of the Sargasso Sea and indicate vulnerability of this critically endangered species to increasing ocean temperature. PMID:28806748

Estimates of suspended-sediment flux and bedform activity on the inner portion of the Eel continental shelf

USGS Publications Warehouse

Cacchione, D.A.; Wiberg, P.L.; Lynch, J.; Irish, J.; Traykovski, P.

1999-01-01

Energetic waves, strong bottom currents, and relatively high rates of sediment discharge from the Eel River combined to produce large amounts of suspended-sediment transport on the inner continental shelf near the Eel River during the winter of 1995-1996. Bottom-boundary-layer (BBL) measurements at a depth of ~50 m using the GEOPROBE tripod showed that the strongest near-bottom flows (combined wave and current speeds of over 1 m/s) and highest sediment concentrations (exceeding 2 g/l at ~1.2 m above the bed) occurred during two storms, one in December 1995 and the other in February 1996. Discharge from the Eel River during these storms was estimated at between 2 and 4 x 103 m3/s. Suspended-sediment flux (SSF) was measured 1.2 m above the bed and calculated throughout the BBL, by applying the tripod data to a shelf sediment-transport model. These results showed initially northward along-shelf SSF during the storms, followed by abrupt and persistent southward reversals. Along-shelf flux was more pronounced during and after the December storm than in February. Across-shelf SSF over the entire measurement period was decidedly seaward. This seaward transport could be responsible for surficial deposits of recent sediment on the outer shelf and upper continental slope in this region. Sediment ripples and larger bedforms were observed in the very fine to fine sand at 50-m depth using a sector-scanning sonar mounted on the tripod. Ripple wavelengths estimated from the sonar images were about 9 cm, which compared favorably with photographs of the bottom taken with a camera mounted on the tripod. The ripple patterns were stable during periods of low combined wave-current bottom stresses, but changed significantly during high-stress events, such as the February storm. Two different sonic altimeters recorded changes in bed elevation of 10 to 20 cm during the periods of measurement. These changes are thought to have been caused principally by the migration of low-amplitude, long-wavelength sand waves into the measurement area.

Do trout swim better than eels? Challenges for estimating performance based on the wake of self-propelled bodies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tytell, Eric D.

2007-11-01

Engineers and biologists have long desired to compare propulsive performance for fishes and underwater vehicles of different sizes, shapes, and modes of propulsion. Ideally, such a comparison would be made on the basis of either propulsive efficiency, total power output or both. However, estimating the efficiency and power output of self-propelled bodies, and particularly fishes, is methodologically challenging because it requires an estimate of thrust. For such systems traveling at a constant velocity, thrust and drag are equal, and can rarely be separated on the basis of flow measured in the wake. This problem is demonstrated using flow fields from swimming American eels, Anguilla rostrata, measured using particle image velocimetry (PIV) and high-speed video. Eels balance thrust and drag quite evenly, resulting in virtually no wake momentum in the swimming (axial) direction. On average, their wakes resemble those of self-propelled jet propulsors, which have been studied extensively. Theoretical studies of such wakes may provide methods for the estimation of thrust separately from drag. These flow fields are compared with those measured in the wakes of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, and bluegill sunfish, Lepomis macrochirus. In contrast to eels, these fishes produce wakes with axial momentum. Although the net momentum flux must be zero on average, it is neither spatially nor temporally homogeneous; the heterogeneity may provide an alternative route for estimating thrust. This review shows examples of wakes and velocity profiles from the three fishes, indicating challenges in estimating efficiency and power output and suggesting several routes for further experiments. Because these estimates will be complicated, a much simpler method for comparing performance is outlined, using as a point of comparison the power lost producing the wake. This wake power, a component of the efficiency and total power, can be estimated in a straightforward way from the flow fields. Although it does not provide complete information about the performance, it can be used to place constraints on the relative efficiency and cost of transport for the fishes.

Do trout swim better than eels? Challenges for estimating performance based on the wake of self-propelled bodies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tytell, Eric D.

Engineers and biologists have long desired to compare propulsive performance for fishes and underwater vehicles of different sizes, shapes, and modes of propulsion. Ideally, such a comparison would be made on the basis of either propulsive efficiency, total power output or both. However, estimating the efficiency and power output of self-propelled bodies, and particularly fishes, is methodologically challenging because it requires an estimate of thrust. For such systems traveling at a constant velocity, thrust and drag are equal, and can rarely be separated on the basis of flow measured in the wake. This problem is demonstrated using flow fields from swimming American eels, Anguilla rostrata, measured using particle image velocimetry (PIV) and high-speed video. Eels balance thrust and drag quite evenly, resulting in virtually no wake momentum in the swimming (axial) direction. On average, their wakes resemble those of self-propelled jet propulsors, which have been studied extensively. Theoretical studies of such wakes may provide methods for the estimation of thrust separately from drag. These flow fields are compared with those measured in the wakes of rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, and bluegill sunfish, Lepomis macrochirus. In contrast to eels, these fishes produce wakes with axial momentum. Although the net momentum flux must be zero on average, it is neither spatially nor temporally homogeneous; the heterogeneity may provide an alternative route for estimating thrust. This review shows examples of wakes and velocity profiles from the three fishes, indicating challenges in estimating efficiency and power output and suggesting several routes for further experiments. Because these estimates will be complicated, a much simpler method for comparing performance is outlined, using as a point of comparison the power lost producing the wake. This wake power, a component of the efficiency and total power, can be estimated in a straightforward way from the flow fields. Although it does not provide complete information about the performance, it can be used to place constraints on the relative efficiency and cost of transport for the fishes.

ARC-2007-ACD07-0073-062

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-04-14

Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) and P.I. at NASA Ames Research Center - Total Luminance Photometer shake test in N-244 EEL Laboratory; Gi Kojima foreground and Damon Flansbury in backgroud.

Degradation analysis of a Ni-based layered positive-electrode active material cycled at elevated temperatures studied by scanning transmission electron microscopy and electron energy-loss spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kojima, Y.; Muto, S.; Tatsumi, K.; Kondo, H.; Oka, H.; Horibuchi, K.; Ukyo, Y.

We investigate the local structural changes in a positive electrode of a lithium ion secondary battery (LiNi 0.8Co 0.15Al 0.05O 2 (NCA) as the active material) associated with charge-discharge cycling at elevated temperatures by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). STEM-EELS spectral imaging reveals the evolution of a NiO-like phase localized near the surface and grain boundary regions after many cycles. The amounts of capacity fading and resistance increase are discussed based on the results of the semiquantitative estimation of NiO-like and other product phases. We also identify the chemical state of lithium in the NiO-like phase substituting for Ni.

Proteomic analysis of three gonad types of swamp eel reveals genes differentially expressed during sex reversal.

PubMed

Sheng, Yue; Zhao, Wei; Song, Ying; Li, Zhigang; Luo, Majing; Lei, Quan; Cheng, Hanhua; Zhou, Rongjia

2015-05-18

A variety of mechanisms are engaged in sex determination in vertebrates. The teleost fish swamp eel undergoes sex reversal naturally and is an ideal model for vertebrate sexual development. However, the importance of proteome-wide scanning for gonad reversal was not previously determined. We report a 2-D electrophoresis analysis of three gonad types of proteomes during sex reversal. MS/MS analysis revealed a group of differentially expressed proteins during ovary to ovotestis to testis transformation. Cbx3 is up-regulated during gonad reversal and is likely to have a role in spermatogenesis. Rab37 is down-regulated during the reversal and is mainly associated with oogenesis. Both Cbx3 and Rab37 are linked up in a protein network. These datasets in gonadal proteomes provide a new resource for further studies in gonadal development.

The nervus terminalis ganglion in Anguilla rostrata: an immunocytochemical and HRP histochemical analysis.

PubMed

Grober, M S; Bass, A H; Burd, G; Marchaterre, M A; Segil, N; Scholz, K; Hodgson, T

1987-12-08

Immunocytochemistry and retrograde horseradish peroxidase (HRP) transport were used to study the ganglion of the nervus terminalis in the American eel, Anguilla rostrata. Luteinizing hormone releasing hormone (LHRH) like immunoreactivity was found in large, ganglion-like cells located ventromedially at the junction of the telencephalon and olfactory bulb and in fibers within the retina and olfactory epithelium. HRP transport from the retina demonstrated direct connections with both the ipsi- and contralateral populations of these ganglion-like cells. Given the well-documented role of both olfaction and vision during migratory and reproductive phases of the life cycle of eels, the robust nature of a nervus terminalis system in these fish may present a unique opportunity to study the behavioral correlates of structure-function organization in a discrete population of ganglion-like cells.

Atomic resolution study of the interfacial bonding at Si3N4/CeO2-δ grain boundaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Walkosz, W.; Klie, R. F.; Öǧüt, S.; Borisevich, A.; Becher, P. F.; Pennycook, S. J.; Idrobo, J. C.

2008-08-01

Using a combination of atomic-resolution Z-contrast imaging and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) in the scanning transmission electron microscope, we examine the atomic and electronic structures at the interface between Si3N4 (101¯0) and CeO2-d intergranular film (IGF). Ce atoms are observed to segregate to the interface in a two-layer periodic arrangement, which is significantly different from the structure observed in a previous study. Our EELS experiments show (i) oxygen in direct contact with the terminating Si3N4 open-ring structures, (ii) a change in the Ce valence from a nominal oxidation state of +3 to almost +4 moving from the interface into the IGF, and (iii) a uniform concentration of Si in the film.

Atomic-Resolution Spectrum Imaging of Semiconductor Nanowires.

PubMed

Zamani, Reza R; Hage, Fredrik S; Lehmann, Sebastian; Ramasse, Quentin M; Dick, Kimberly A

2018-03-14

Over the past decade, III-V heterostructure nanowires have attracted a surge of attention for their application in novel semiconductor devices such as tunneling field-effect transistors (TFETs). The functionality of such devices critically depends on the specific atomic arrangement at the semiconductor heterointerfaces. However, most of the currently available characterization techniques lack sufficient spatial resolution to provide local information on the atomic structure and composition of these interfaces. Atomic-resolution spectrum imaging by means of electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) in the scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) is a powerful technique with the potential to resolve structure and chemical composition with sub-angstrom spatial resolution and to provide localized information about the physical properties of the material at the atomic scale. Here, we demonstrate the use of atomic-resolution EELS to understand the interface atomic arrangement in three-dimensional heterostructures in semiconductor nanowires. We observed that the radial interfaces of GaSb-InAs heterostructure nanowires are atomically abrupt, while the axial interface in contrast consists of an interfacial region where intermixing of the two compounds occurs over an extended spatial region. The local atomic configuration affects the band alignment at the interface and, hence, the charge transport properties of devices such as GaSb-InAs nanowire TFETs. STEM-EELS thus represents a very promising technique for understanding nanowire physical properties, such as differing electrical behavior across the radial and axial heterointerfaces of GaSb-InAs nanowires for TFET applications.

Measurement of the dynamic charge response of materials using low-energy, momentum-resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy (M-EELS)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Husain, Ali A.; Mitrano, Matteo; Rak, Melinda S.

One of the most fundamental properties of an interacting electron system is its frequency- and wave-vector-dependent density response function, χ(q,ω). The imaginary part, χ"(q,ω), defines the fundamental bosonic charge excitations of the system, exhibiting peaks wherever collective modes are present. χ quantifies the electronic compressibility of a material, its response to external fields, its ability to screen charge, and its tendency to form charge density waves. Unfortunately, there has never been a fully momentum-resolved means to measure χ(q,ω) at the meV energy scale relevant to modern electronic materials. Here, we demonstrate a way to measure χ with quantitative momentum resolutionmore » by applying alignment techniques from x-ray and neutron scattering to surface high-resolution electron energy-loss spectroscopy (HR-EELS). This approach, which we refer to here as M-EELS" allows direct measurement of χ"(q,ω) with meV resolution while controlling the momentum with an accuracy better than a percent of a typical Brillouin zone. We apply this technique to finite-{\\bf q} excitations in the optimally-doped high temperature superconductor, Bi 2Sr 2CaCu 2O 8+x (Bi2212), which exhibits several phonons potentially relevant to dispersion anomalies observed in ARPES and STM experiments. In conclusion, our study defines a path to studying the long-sought collective charge modes in quantum materials at the meV scale and with full momentum control.« less

First observations of histopathological effects of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in gills of European eel Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus, 1758): histopathological effects of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene in gills of European eel.

PubMed

Sensini, Cristiana; Della Torre, Camilla; Corsi, Ilaria; Focardi, Silvano

2008-12-01

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects on gill morphology of the explosive 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in a model fish, the European eel, Anguilla anguilla (Linnaeus, 1758) to assess potential detrimental effects in marine fish due to its presence in dumping areas. Juvenile specimens of A. anguilla were exposed in vivo for 6 and 24 h to 0.5, 1 and 2.5 mg/l nominal concentrations of TNT using dimethyl sulfoxide (0.1 per thousand) as solvent carrier. Histological analysis of gills indicated that TNT induced several structural lesions. After 6h of exposure at 0.5 and 1 mg/l TNT, oedema of some secondary lamellae was evident: this change at the highest dose of 2.5 mg/l led to epithelial lifting and detachment from the endothelium and rupture of the branchial membrane and vascular congestion. After 24 h at 0.5 mg/l, increased oedema in secondary lamellae, extensive epithelial detachment and vascular congestion and dilation of lamellar capillaries and pooling of blood at 1 mg/l were observed. At 2.5 mg/l, epithelial hyperplasia, fusion of adjacent lamellae, obliteration of interlamellar spaces by means of tight junctions were also observed. Moreover, chloride cells proliferated along secondary lamellae, and mucus hypersecretion was evident. The overall results clearly indicate that gills are sensitive targets of TNT.

Measurement of the dynamic charge response of materials using low-energy, momentum-resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy (M-EELS)

DOE PAGES

Husain, Ali A.; Mitrano, Matteo; Rak, Melinda S.; ...

2017-10-06

One of the most fundamental properties of an interacting electron system is its frequency- and wave-vector-dependent density response function, χ(q,ω). The imaginary part, χ"(q,ω), defines the fundamental bosonic charge excitations of the system, exhibiting peaks wherever collective modes are present. χ quantifies the electronic compressibility of a material, its response to external fields, its ability to screen charge, and its tendency to form charge density waves. Unfortunately, there has never been a fully momentum-resolved means to measure χ(q,ω) at the meV energy scale relevant to modern electronic materials. Here, we demonstrate a way to measure χ with quantitative momentum resolutionmore » by applying alignment techniques from x-ray and neutron scattering to surface high-resolution electron energy-loss spectroscopy (HR-EELS). This approach, which we refer to here as M-EELS" allows direct measurement of χ"(q,ω) with meV resolution while controlling the momentum with an accuracy better than a percent of a typical Brillouin zone. We apply this technique to finite-{\\bf q} excitations in the optimally-doped high temperature superconductor, Bi 2Sr 2CaCu 2O 8+x (Bi2212), which exhibits several phonons potentially relevant to dispersion anomalies observed in ARPES and STM experiments. In conclusion, our study defines a path to studying the long-sought collective charge modes in quantum materials at the meV scale and with full momentum control.« less

RNA-seq analysis of the head-kidney transcriptome response to handling-stress in the red cusk-eel (Genypterus chilensis).

PubMed

Aballai, Víctor; Aedo, Jorge E; Maldonado, Jonathan; Bastias-Molina, Macarena; Silva, Herman; Meneses, Claudio; Boltaña, Sebastian; Reyes, Ariel; Molina, Alfredo; Valdés, Juan Antonio

2017-12-01

Stress is a primary contributing factor of fish disease and mortality in aquaculture. We have previously reported that the red cusk-eel (Genypterus chilensis), an important farmed marine fish, demonstrates a handling-stress response that results in increased juvenile mortality, which is mainly associated with skeletal muscle atrophy and liver steatosis. To better understand the systemic effects of stress on red cusk-eel immune-related gene expression, the present study assessed the transcriptomic head-kidney response to handling-stress. The RNA sequencing generated a total of 61,655,525 paired-end reads from control and stressed conditions. De novo assembly using the CLC Genomic Workbench produced 86,840 transcripts and created a reference transcriptome with a N50 of 1426bp. Reads mapped onto the assembled reference transcriptome resulted in the identification of 569 up-regulated and 513 down-regulated transcripts. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed a significant up-regulation of the biological processes, like response to stress, response to biotic stimulus, and immune response. Conversely, a significant down-regulation of biological processes is associated with metabolic processes. These results were validated by RT-qPCR analysis for nine candidate genes involved in the immune response. The present data demonstrated that short term stress promotes the immune innate response in the marine teleost G. chilensis. This study is an important step towards understanding the immune adaptive response to stress in non-model teleost species. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Intracellular pH regulation in hepatocytes isolated from three teleost species.

PubMed

Furimsky, M; Moon, T W; Perry, S F

1999-09-01

The mechanisms of intracellular pH (pH(i)) regulation were studied in hepatocytes isolated from three species of teleost: rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), black bullhead (Ameiurus melas) and American eel (Anguilla rostrata). Intracellular pH was monitored over time using the pH-sensitive fluorescent dye BCECF in response to acid loading under control conditions and in different experimental media containing either low Na(+) or Cl(-) concentrations, the Na(+)-H(+) exchanger blocker amiloride or the blocker of the V-type H(+)-ATPase, bafilomycin A(1). In trout and bullhead hepatocytes, recovery to an intracellular acid load occurred principally by way of a Na(+)-dependent amiloride-sensitive Na(+)-H(+) exchanger. In eel hepatocytes, the Na(+)-H(+) exchanger did not contribute to recovery to an acid load though evidence suggests that it is present on the cell membrane and participates in the maintenance of steady-state pH(i). The V-type H(+)-ATPase did not participate in recovery to an acid load in any species. A Cl(-)-HCO(3)(-) exchanger may play a role in recovery to an acid load in eel hepatocytes by switching off and retaining base that would normally be tonically extruded. Thus, it is clear that hepatocytes isolated from the three species are capable of regulating pH(i), principally by way of a Na(+)-H(+) exchanger and a Cl(-)-HCO(3)(-) exchanger, but do not exploit identical mechanisms for pH(i) recovery. J. Exp. Zool. 284:361-367, 1999. Copyright 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Seasonal variability of metallothioneins, cytochrome P450, Bile metabolites and oxyradical metabolism in the European eel Anguilla anguilla L. (Anguillidae) and striped mullet Mugil cephalus L. (Mugilidae).

PubMed

Gorbi, Stefania; Baldini, Chiara; Regoli, Francesco

2005-07-01

The European eel Anguilla anguilla (Anguillidae) and the striped mullet Mugil cephalus (Mugilidae) are typical inhabitants of Mediterranean brackish lagoons, and their utility as bioindicator organisms has already been suggested. The seasonal variability of several potential biomarkers was investigated during a field study carried out in the Orbetello lagoon (Tuscany, Italy). Organisms were sampled on a seasonal basis, and analyzed parameters included the levels of hepatic metallothioneins, the activity of cytochrome P450 1A (EROD), and the presence of biliary PAH metabolites. Special attention was also paid to antioxidant defenses, including catalase, glutathione peroxidases, glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transferases, and total glutathione concentration. Total Oxyradical Scavenging Capacity (TOSC-assay) was measured as an indication of the overall biological resistance to toxicity of different forms of oxyradicals (peroxynitrite, peroxyl and hydroxyl radicals). Obtained results suggest that natural variations of analyzed responses are associated with seasonality of both environmental and biological factors, mainly temperature and reproductive cycle which, however, have a different influence in these two species. Striped mullets exhibited the strongest variations in October when spawning occurs; eels are not influenced by a seasonal sexual maturation and showed more marked changes during the summer, likely related to the elevated seawater temperature and light irradiance in the lagoon. This study confirms the importance of characterizing seasonal variations and the influence of different factors on biological responses that can be used as biomarkers in monitoring programs.

Equilibrium sampling of environmental pollutants in fish: comparison with lipid-normalized concentrations and homogenization effects on chemical activity.

PubMed

Jahnke, Annika; Mayer, Philipp; Adolfsson-Erici, Margaretha; McLachlan, Michael S

2011-07-01

Equilibrium sampling of organic pollutants into the silicone polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) has recently been applied in biological tissues including fish. Pollutant concentrations in PDMS can then be multiplied with lipid/PDMS distribution coefficients (D(Lipid,PDMS) ) to obtain concentrations in fish lipids. In the present study, PDMS thin films were used for equilibrium sampling of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in intact tissue of two eels and one salmon. A classical exhaustive extraction technique to determine lipid-normalized PCB concentrations, which assigns the body burden of the chemical to the lipid fraction of the fish, was additionally applied. Lipid-based PCB concentrations obtained by equilibrium sampling were 85 to 106% (Norwegian Atlantic salmon), 108 to 128% (Baltic Sea eel), and 51 to 83% (Finnish lake eel) of those determined using total extraction. This supports the validity of the equilibrium sampling technique, while at the same time confirming that the fugacity capacity of these lipid-rich tissues for PCBs was dominated by the lipid fraction. Equilibrium sampling was also applied to homogenates of the same fish tissues. The PCB concentrations in the PDMS were 1.2 to 2.0 times higher in the homogenates (statistically significant in 18 of 21 cases, p < 0.05), indicating that homogenization increased the chemical activity of the PCBs and decreased the fugacity capacity of the tissue. This observation has implications for equilibrium sampling and partition coefficients determined using tissue homogenates. Copyright © 2011 SETAC.

ARC-2007-ACD07-0073-050

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-04-14

Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) and P.I. at NASA Ames Research Center - Total Luminance Photometer lens and electronics units on shake table in N-2444 EEL Laboratory: Kim Ennico and Gi Kojima check electronics

Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy | Materials Science | NREL

Science.gov Websites

mode by collecting the EDS and EELS signals point-by-point as one scans the electron probe across the . Examples of Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy Capabilities Z-contrast image microphoto taken by

20. General east to west elevated view of Moody Bridge ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

20. General east to west elevated view of Moody Bridge placing it within and in relation to the surrounding rural environment. - Moody Bridge, Spanning South Fork Eel River, Garberville, Humboldt County, CA

1. OVERALL VIEW SHOWING FACE OF CONCRETE GRAVITY DAM AND ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

1. OVERALL VIEW SHOWING FACE OF CONCRETE GRAVITY DAM AND FISH LADDER, LOOKING SOUTHWEST (UPSTREAM) FROM SNORE OPPOSITE FISH LADDER - Van Arsdale Dam, South Fork of Eel River, Ukiah, Mendocino County, CA

A new species of Dentiphilometra (Nematoda: Philometridae) from the musculature of the gray snapper Lutjanus griseus (osteichthyes) off the Caribbean coast of Mexico.

PubMed

González-Solís, David; Moravec, Frantisek; Paredes, Vielka M Tuz

2007-10-01

A new nematode, Dentiphilometra lutjani n. sp. (Philometridae), is described from gravid females (the male is unknown) collected from the body musculature of the marine perciform fish gray snapper, Lutjanus griseus (Lutjanidae), from the Bay of Chetumal and southern coast of Quintana Roo, off the Caribbean coast of Mexico. The new species differs from the only other congener, Dentiphilometra monopteri, from the swamp eel Monopterus albus in China, mainly in the body length of gravid female (15.40-53.21 mm), the shape of the posterior body end (not markedly narrowed, with low caudal projections), the esophageal gland (maximum width near its posterior end), and the length (344-483 microm) of larvae from the uterus; both species also differ in their host types (marine perciform fish vs. freshwater swamp eel) and geographical distribution (Mexico vs. China).

Effect of an in-situ thermal annealing on the structural properties of self-assembled GaSb/GaAs quantum dots

DOE PAGES

Fernandez-Delgado, N.; Herrera, M.; Chisholm, M. F.; ...

2016-04-22

The effect of the application of a thermal annealing on the structural properties of GaSb/GaAs quantum dots (QDs) is analyzed by aberration corrected high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). Our results show that the GaSb/GaAs QDs are more elongated after the annealing, and that the interfaces are less abrupt due to the Sb diffusion. We have also found a strong reduction in the misfit dislocation density with the annealing. The analysis by EELS of a threading dislocation has shown that the dislocation core is rich in Sb. In addition, the region ofmore » the GaAs substrate delimited by the threading dislocation is shown to be Sb-rich as well. An enhanced diffusion of Sb due to a mechanism assisted by the dislocation movement is discussed.« less

Trust in the patient’s history: cough and eels

PubMed Central

Mackay, Alexander John; Burke, Stephen; Bothamley, Graham

2009-01-01

A 54-year-old ex-smoker was referred to the respiratory clinic for breathlessness and wheeze. His symptoms started while eating jellied eels when he felt something stick in his throat. The following day, his general practitioner heard a wheeze in his right lower chest. A chest radiograph noted no foreign body. A course of antibiotics did not help, but steroids were beneficial. On clinic review the examination was normal apart from enlarged and inflamed tonsils. Fibreoptic bronchoscopy revealed a suspicious looking mass lesion completely occluding the bronchus intermedius. Biopsies of the lesion revealed inflamed bronchial mucosa and a fragment of bone. There was no evidence of dysplasia or malignancy. A computed tomography scan of the thorax revealed a 5 mm endobronchial soft tissue density with areas of calcification within the bronchus intermedius. At rigid bronchoscopy a spiny bone was removed and subsequently the patient’s shortness of breath, cough and wheeze improved. PMID:22110553

Observations of gas hydrates in marine sediments, offshore northern California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brooks, J.M.; Field, M.E.; Kennicutt, M.C.

1991-01-01

Biogenic gas hydrates were recovered in shallow cores (< 6 m deep) from the Eel River basin in offshore northern California between 40??38??? and 40??56???N. The gas hydrates contained primarily methane (??13C = -57.6 to -69.1???) and occurred as dispersed crystals, small (2-20 mm) nodules, and layered bands within the sediment. These hydrates, recovered in sediment at water depths between 510 and 642 m, coincide nearly, but not exactly, with areas showing bottom-simulating reflectors (BSRs) on seismic-reflection records. This study confirms indirect geophysical and geologic observations that gas hydrates are present north of the Mendocino Fracture Zone in sediment of the Eel River basin but probably are absent to the south in the Point Arena basin. This discovery extends the confirmed sites of gas hydrates in the eastern Pacific region beyond the Peruvian and Central American margins to the northern California margin. ?? 1991.

Characteristics of Tc and ρ(T) of polycrystalline (In2O3)-(ZnO) films with low carrier density

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

B, Shinozaki; S, Takada; N, Kokubo; K, Makise; T, Asano; K, Yamada; K, Yano; H, Nakamura

2012-12-01

For the polycrystalline (In2O3)-(ZnO) prepared by annealing in air, we investigated the relation among superconductivity, ρ(T) characteristics and preparation conditions. To clarify the distribution of elements, we studied the microstructure by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). It was found that 1) The films annealed at restricted regions of annealing temperature Ta and time ta show the superconductivity. Transition temperature TC and carrier density n are Tc<3.3K and n asymp1025/m3~1026/m3, respectively. 2) The data on EELS spectra mapping of indium plasmon indicate that droplets of the pure indium phase distribute discretely on grain boundaries and near the interface between the film and the glass substrate. 3) Although data in the Tc - Ta relation are scattered, the TC shows relatively good correlation with n, taking a convex form.

Probing plasmons in three dimensions by combining complementary spectroscopies in a scanning transmission electron microscope

DOE PAGES

Hachtel, Jordan A.; Marvinney, Claire; Mouti, Anas; ...

2016-03-02

The nanoscale optical response of surface plasmons in three-dimensional metallic nanostructures plays an important role in many nanotechnology applications, where precise spatial and spectral characteristics of plasmonic elements control device performance. Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and cathodoluminescence (CL) within a scanning transmission electron microscope have proven to be valuable tools for studying plasmonics at the nanoscale. Each technique has been used separately, producing three-dimensional reconstructions through tomography, often aided by simulations for complete characterization. Here we demonstrate that the complementary nature of the two techniques, namely that EELS probes beam-induced electronic excitations while CL probes radiative decay, allows usmore » to directly obtain a spatially- and spectrally-resolved picture of the plasmonic characteristics of nanostructures in three dimensions. Furthermore, the approach enables nanoparticle-by-nanoparticle plasmonic analysis in three dimensions to aid in the design of diverse nanoplasmonic applications.« less

Locating a silane coupling agent in silica-filled rubber composites by EFTEM.

PubMed

Dohi, Hidehiko; Horiuchi, Shin

2007-11-20

A silane coupling agent (SA) was added to silica/rubber composites at different mixing temperatures and the formation of a coupling layer at the silica/rubber interface was investigated by energy-filtering transmission electron microscopy. Bis(triethoxysilypropyl)tetrasulfane (TESPT), which was used as the SA, reacted with the silanol groups on the silica surface and with styrene-butadiene rubber to form an interfacial coupling layer. The silicon and sulfur elemental distributions were analyzed by electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and elemental mapping. The amount of TESPT trapped in the rubber matrix could be qualitatively estimated by EELS, and the in situ formed coupling layer could be characterized by elemental mapping. The result indicated that the formation of the coupling layer was affected by the mixing temperature. The technique described here will contribute to the study of interface-property relationships and the evaluation of the role of SAs in polymeric composites.

Oxidation-state sensitive imaging of cerium dioxide by atomic-resolution low-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Johnston-Peck, Aaron C; Winterstein, Jonathan P; Roberts, Alan D; DuChene, Joseph S; Qian, Kun; Sweeny, Brendan C; Wei, Wei David; Sharma, Renu; Stach, Eric A; Herzing, Andrew A

2016-03-01

Low-angle annular dark field (LAADF) scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) imaging is presented as a method that is sensitive to the oxidation state of cerium ions in CeO2 nanoparticles. This relationship was validated through electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), in situ measurements, as well as multislice image simulations. Static displacements caused by the increased ionic radius of Ce(3+) influence the electron channeling process and increase electron scattering to low angles while reducing scatter to high angles. This process manifests itself by reducing the high-angle annular dark field (HAADF) signal intensity while increasing the LAADF signal intensity in close proximity to Ce(3+) ions. This technique can supplement STEM-EELS and in so doing, relax the experimental challenges associated with acquiring oxidation state information at high spatial resolutions. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Femtosecond MeV Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, R. K.; Wang, X. J.

2017-11-01

Pump-probe electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) with femtosecond temporal resolution will be a transformative research tool for studying nonequilibrium chemistry and electronic dynamics of matter. In this paper, we propose a concept of femtosecond EELS utilizing mega-electron-volt electron beams from a radio-frequency (rf) photocathode source. The high acceleration gradient and high beam energy of the rf gun are critical to the generation of 10-fs electron beams, which enables an improvement of the temporal resolution by more than 1 order of magnitude beyond the state of the art. In our proposal, the "reference-beam technique" relaxes the energy stability requirement of the rf power source by roughly 2 orders of magnitude. The requirements for the electron-beam quality, photocathode, spectrometer, and detector are also discussed. Supported by particle-tracking simulations, we demonstrate the feasibility of achieving sub-electron-volt energy resolution and approximately 10-fs temporal resolution with existing or near-future hardware performance.

Analysis of Ti valence states in resistive switching regions of a rutile TiO2‑ x four-terminal memristive device

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamaguchi, Kengo; Takeuchi, Shotaro; Tohei, Tetsuya; Ikarashi, Nobuyuki; Sakai, Akira

2018-06-01

We have performed Ti valence state analysis of our four-terminal rutile TiO2‑ x single-crystal memristors using scanning transmission electron microscopy–electron energy loss spectroscopy (STEM–EELS). Analysis of Ti-L2,3 edge EELS spectra revealed that the electrocolored region formed by the application of voltage includes a valence state reflecting highly reduced TiO2‑ x due to the accumulation of oxygen vacancies. Such a valence state mainly exists within ∼50 nm from the crystal surface and extends along specific crystal directions. These electrically reduced surface layers are considered to directly contribute to the resistive switching (RS) in the four-terminal device. The present results add new insights into the microscopic mechanisms of the RS phenomena and should contribute to further development and improvements of TiO2‑ x based memristive devices.

Isolation and identification of a lethal rhabdovirus from farmed rice field eels Monopterus albus.

PubMed

Ou, Tong; Zhu, Ruo-Lin; Chen, Zhong-Yuan; Zhang, Qi-Ya

2013-11-06

We provide the first description of a virus responsible for a systemic hemorrhagic disease causing high mortality in farmed rice field eels Monopterus albus in China. Typical signs exhibited by the diseased fish were extensive hemorrhages in the skin and viscera and some neurological signs, such as loss of equilibrium and disorganized swimming. Histopathological examination revealed various degrees of necrosis within the spleen and liver. Virus isolation was attempted from visceral tissues of diseased fish by inoculation on 6 fish cell lines. Typical cytopathic effects (CPE) were produced in bluegill fry (BF2) cells, so this cell line was chosen for further isolation and propagation of the virus. Electron microscopy observation showed that the negative stained viral particles had the characteristic bullet shape of rhabdoviruses and an estimated size of 60 × 120 nm. We therefore tentatively refer to this virus as Monopterus albus rhabdovirus (MoARV). Molecular characterization of MoARV, including sequence analysis of the nucleoprotein (N), phosphoprotein (P), and glycoprotein (G) genes, revealed 94.5 to 97.3% amino acid similarity to that of Siniperca chuatsi rhabdovirus. Phylogenetic analysis based on the amino acid sequences of N and G proteins indicated that MoARV should be a member of the genus Vesiculovirus. Koch's postulates were fulfilled by infecting healthy rice field eels with MoARV, which produced an acute infection. RT-PCR analysis demonstrated that MoARV RNA could be detected in both naturally and experimentally infected fish. The data suggest that MoARV was the causative pathogen of the disease.

Cloning of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) precursor cDNA and immunohistochemical detection of CRH peptide in the brain of the Japanese eel, paying special attention to gonadotropin-releasing hormone.

PubMed

Amano, Masafumi; Mizusawa, Nanami; Okubo, Kataaki; Amiya, Noriko; Mizusawa, Kanta; Chiba, Hiroaki; Yamamoto, Naoyuki; Takahashi, Akiyoshi

2014-04-01

The stress-related corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) was first identified by isolation of its cDNA from the brain of the Japanese eel Anguilla japonica. CRH cDNA encodes a signal peptide, a cryptic peptide and CRH (41 amino acids). The sequence homology to mammalian CRH is high. Next, the distribution of CRH-immunoreactive (ir) cell bodies and fibers in the brain and pituitary were examined by immunohistochemistry. CRH-ir cell bodies were detected in several brain regions, e.g., nucleus preopticus pars magnocellularis, nucleus preopticus pars gigantocellularis and formatio reticularis superius. In the brain, CRH-ir fibers were distributed not only in the hypothalamus but also in various regions. Some CRH-ir fibers projected to adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) cells in the rostral pars distalis of the pituitary and also the α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) cells in the pars intermedia of the pituitary. Finally, the neuroanatomical relationship between the CRH neurons and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons was examined by dual-label immunohistochemistry. CRH-ir fibers were found to be in close contact with GnRH-ir cell bodies in the hypothalamus and in the midbrain tegmentum and GnRH-ir fibers were in close contact with CRH-ir cell bodies in the nucleus preopticus pars magnocellularis. These results suggest that CRH has some physiological functions other than the stimulation of ACTH and α-MSH secretion and that reciprocal connections may exist between the CRH neurons and GnRH neurons in the brain of the Japanese eel.

Invading species in the Eel River, California: Successes, failures, and relationships with resident species

USGS Publications Warehouse

Brown, L.R.; Moyle, P.B.

1997-01-01

We examined invasions of non-native fishes into the Eel River, California. At least 16 species of fish have been introduced into the drainage which originally supported 12-14 fish species. Our study was prompted by the unauthorized introduction in 1979 of Sacramento squawfish, Ptychocheilus grandis, a large predatory cyprinid. From 1986 to 1990, we conducted growth and diet studies of squaw fish, conducted intensive surveys of the distribution and habitat associations of both native and introduced species, and examined the nature of species-habitat and interspecies relationships. We found no evidence for increased growth or expanded feeding habits, compared to native populations, of Sacramento squawfish as they invaded the Eel River drainage. Ten of the introduced species were well established, with four species limited to a reservoir and six species established in streams. The success or failure of introductions of stream species appeared to be a function of the ability of a species to survive the fluctuating, highly seasonal, flow regime. The present mixture of native and exotic species has not formed stable fish assemblages but it seems likely that four habitat-associated assemblages will develop. The overall effect of the successful species introductions has been to assemble a group of species, with some exceptions, that are native to and occur together in many California streams. The assemblages now forming are similar to those found in other California streams. The assemblage characterized by squawfish and suckers is likely to be resistant to invasion, in the absence of human caused habitat modifications.

Zinc is an essential trace element for spermatogenesis.

PubMed

Yamaguchi, Sonoko; Miura, Chiemi; Kikuchi, Kazuya; Celino, Fritzie T; Agusa, Tetsuro; Tanabe, Shinsuke; Miura, Takeshi

2009-06-30

Zinc (Zn) plays important roles in various biological activities but there is little available information regarding its functions in spermatogenesis. In our current study, we further examined the role of Zn during spermatogenesis in the Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica). Human CG (hCG) was injected into the animals to induce spermatogenesis, after which the concentration of Zn in the testis increased in tandem with the progression of spermatogenesis. Staining of testicular cells with a Zn-specific fluorescent probe revealed that Zn accumulates in germ cells, particularly in the mitochondria of spermatogonia and spermatozoa. Using an in vitro testicular organ culture system for the Japanese eel, production of a Zn deficiency by chelation with N,N,N',N'-tetrakis (2-pyridylemethyl)ethylenediamine (TPEN) caused apoptosis of the germ cells. However, this cell death was rescued by the addition of Zn to the cultures. Furthermore, an induced deficiency of Zn by TPEN chelation was found to inhibit the germ cell proliferation induced by 11-ketotestosterone (KT), a fish specific androgen, 17alpha,20beta-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (DHP), the initiator of meiosis in fish, and estradiol-17beta (E2), an inducer of spermatogonial stem-cell renewal. We also investigated the effects of Zn deficiency on sperm motility and observed that TPEN treatment of eel sperm suppressed the rate and duration of their motility but that co-treatment with Zn blocked the effects of TPEN. Our present results thus suggest that Zn is an essential trace element for the maintenance of germ cells, the progression spermatogenesis, and the regulation of sperm motility.

Transcript levels of the soluble sperm factor protein phospholipase C zeta 1 (PLCζ1) increase through induced spermatogenesis in European eel.

PubMed

Morini, Marina; Peñaranda, David S; Vílchez, María C; Gallego, Víctor; Nourizadeh-Lillabadi, Rasoul; Asturiano, Juan F; Weltzien, Finn-Arne; Pérez, Luz

2015-09-01

Activation at fertilization of the vertebrate egg is triggered by Ca(2+) waves. Recent studies suggest the phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ), a sperm-specific protein, triggers egg activation by an IP3-mediated Ca(2+) release and allow Ca(2+) waves at fertilization. In the present study we cloned, characterized, and phylogenetically positioned the European eel PLCζ (PLCζ1). It is 1521 bp long, with 10 exons encoding an open reading frame of 506 amino acids. The amino acid sequence contains an EF-hand domain, X and Y catalytic domains, and a carboxy-terminal C2 domain, all typical of other PLCζ orthologous. The tissue distribution was studied, and the gene expression was determined in testis during induced sexual maturation at three different thermal regimes. Also, brain and pituitary expression was studied through sex maturation at constant temperature. plcζ1 was expressed in brain of male and female, in testis but not in ovaries. By first time in vertebrates, it is reported plcζ1 expression in the pituitary gland. Testis plcζ1 expression increased through spermatogenesis under all the thermal regimes, but being significantly elevated at lower temperatures. It was very low when testis contained only spermatogonia or spermatocytes, while maximum expression was found during spermiogenesis. These results support the hypothesis for an eel sperm-specific PLCζ1 inducing egg activation, similarly to mammals and some teleosts, but different from some other teleost species, which express this protein in ovaries, but not in testes. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

High-resolution monochromated electron energy-loss spectroscopy of organic photovoltaic materials.

PubMed

Alexander, Jessica A; Scheltens, Frank J; Drummy, Lawrence F; Durstock, Michael F; Hage, Fredrik S; Ramasse, Quentin M; McComb, David W

2017-09-01

Advances in electron monochromator technology are providing opportunities for high energy resolution (10 - 200meV) electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) to be performed in the scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). The energy-loss near-edge structure in core-loss spectroscopy is often limited by core-hole lifetimes rather than the energy spread of the incident illumination. However, in the valence-loss region, the reduced width of the zero loss peak makes it possible to resolve clearly and unambiguously spectral features at very low energy-losses (<3eV). In this contribution, high-resolution EELS was used to investigate four materials commonly used in organic photovoltaics (OPVs): poly(3-hexlythiophene) (P3HT), [6,6] phenyl-C 61 butyric acid methyl ester (PCBM), copper phthalocyanine (CuPc), and fullerene (C 60 ). Data was collected on two different monochromated instruments - a Nion UltraSTEM 100 MC 'HERMES' and a FEI Titan 3 60-300 Image-Corrected S/TEM - using energy resolutions (as defined by the zero loss peak full-width at half-maximum) of 35meV and 175meV, respectively. The data was acquired to allow deconvolution of plural scattering, and Kramers-Kronig analysis was utilized to extract the complex dielectric functions. The real and imaginary parts of the complex dielectric functions obtained from the two instruments were compared to evaluate if the enhanced resolution in the Nion provides new opto-electronic information for these organic materials. The differences between the spectra are discussed, and the implications for STEM-EELS studies of advanced materials are considered. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

ARC-2007-ACD07-0073-048

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-04-14

Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) and P.I. at NASA Ames Research Center - Total Luminance Photometer lens and electronics units on shake table in N-2444 EEL Laboratory with (l) Gi Kojima (bk - middle) Damon Flansburg (r) Dana Lynch

12. DETAIL VIEW OF STEPPED CONCRETE GRAVITY DAM FACE AND ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

12. DETAIL VIEW OF STEPPED CONCRETE GRAVITY DAM FACE AND ROCK OUTCROPPING, WITH LAKE IN BACKGROUND, SHOWN AT MINIMUM WATER FLOW, LOOKING SOUTHEAST (UPSTREAM) - Van Arsdale Dam, South Fork of Eel River, Ukiah, Mendocino County, CA

11. VIEW OF HOCK OUTCROPPING, CONCRETE GRAVITY DAM FACE AND ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

11. VIEW OF HOCK OUTCROPPING, CONCRETE GRAVITY DAM FACE AND LAKE WITH TUNNEL INLET STRUCTURE IN DISTANCE, SHOWN AT MINIMUM WATER FLOW, LOOKING SOUTHEAST (UPSTREAM) - Van Arsdale Dam, South Fork of Eel River, Ukiah, Mendocino County, CA

26 CFR 48.4161(a)-2 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... edible article considered more attractive to fish, such as bread crumbs treated so as to simulate salmon eggs, and pork rind cut and dyed to resemble frogs, eels, or tadpoles. [T.D. 7328, 39 FR 36586, Oct. 11...

26 CFR 48.4161(a)-2 - Meaning of terms.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... edible article considered more attractive to fish, such as bread crumbs treated so as to simulate salmon eggs, and pork rind cut and dyed to resemble frogs, eels, or tadpoles. [T.D. 7328, 39 FR 36586, Oct. 11...

Brominated flame retardants in fish and shellfish - levels and contribution of fish consumption to dietary exposure of Dutch citizens to HBCD.

PubMed

van Leeuwen, Stefan P J; de Boer, Jacob

2008-02-01

In order to determine the contamination with brominated flame retardants (BFR) in fish regularly consumed by Dutch citizens, 44 samples of freshwater fish, marine fish, and shellfish were analyzed for polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE), tetrabromobisphenol-A (TBBP-A) and its methylated derivative (me-TBBP-A), and hexabromocyclododecane (HBCD), including its alpha-, beta- and gamma-diastereomers. The highest BFR concentrations were found in pike-perch and eel from the highly industrialized and urbanized rivers Rhine and Meuse. The sum concentrations of BDE 28, 47, 99, 100, 153, 154, 183, 209, and brominated biphenyl (BB) 153 and HBCD (selection based on The European Food Safety Authority monitoring recommendation) ranged from below quantification limits to 17 ng/g wet weight (ww) in marine fish and in freshwater fish from 0.6 ng/g ww in pike-perch to 380 ng/g ww in eel. The BDE congener profile in all fish and shellfish samples is dominated by BDE 47, followed by BDE 99, except for eel in which BDE 100 is higher than BDE 99. BDE 209 was detected in two mussel samples, most likely due to BDE 209 contaminated particulate matter in their intestines. Total-HBCD (as determined by GC/electron capture negative ion (ECNI)-MS) was detected in 22 out of the 44 samples in concentrations between 0.20 ng/g in marine fish and 230 ng/g ww in eel. Three HBCD diastereomers were determined by HPLC/ESI-MS/MS. alpha-HBCD was the prevalent congener in most fish samples, followed by gamma-HBCD. beta-HBCD, TBBP-A and me-TBBP-A were only detected in a few samples and at low concentrations. A considerable difference was found between HBCD results obtained from GC/ECNI-MS and HPLC/ESI-MS/MS: the GC/ECNI-MS results were 4.4 times higher, according to regression analysis. There is hardly any data on human dietary exposure to HBCD available. We have estimated the fish-related dietary exposure of HBCD for the average Dutch population. The medium bound intake was estimated at 8.3 ng/day for a 70-kg person (0.12 ng/kg bodyweight/day). For this estimation, we relied mostly on HPLC/ESI-MS/MS data as we argue that these results are more accurate than those obtained by GC/ECNI-MS.

ARC-2007-ACD07-0073-052

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-04-14

Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) and P.I. at NASA Ames Research Center - Total Luminance Photometer lens and electronics units on shake table in N-2444 EEL Laboratory: Gi Kojima, Dana Lynch and Lynn Hofland check electronics. Data analyzer is the foreground.

7. DETAIL VIEW OF LOWER MOUTH OF FISH LADDER AT ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

7. DETAIL VIEW OF LOWER MOUTH OF FISH LADDER AT ROCK OUTCROPPING, SHOWING NATURAL CARVED ROCK POOLS, UPPER PORTION OF FISH LADDER VISIBLE IN DISTANCE, LOOKING SOUTHWEST (UPSTREAM) - Van Arsdale Dam, South Fork of Eel River, Ukiah, Mendocino County, CA

mRNA-seq reveals skeletal muscle atrophy in response to handling stress in a marine teleost, the red cusk-eel (Genypterus chilensis).

PubMed

Aedo, Jorge E; Maldonado, Jonathan; Aballai, Víctor; Estrada, Juan M; Bastias-Molina, Macarena; Meneses, Claudio; Gallardo-Escarate, Cristian; Silva, Herman; Molina, Alfredo; Valdés, Juan A

2015-12-01

Fish reared under intensive conditions are repeatedly exposed to stress, which negatively impacts growth. Although most fish follow a conserved pattern of stress response, with increased concentrations of cortisol, each species presents specificities in the cell response and stress tolerance. Therefore, culturing new species requires a detailed knowledge of these specific responses. The red cusk-eel (Genypterus chilensis) is a new economically important marine species for the Chilean aquaculture industry. However, there is no information on the stress- and cortisol-induced mechanisms that decrease skeletal muscle growth in this teleost. Using Illumina RNA-seq technology, skeletal muscle sequence reads for G. chilensis were generated under control and handling stress conditions. Reads were mapped onto a reference transcriptome, resulting in the in silico identification of 785 up-regulated and 167 down-regulated transcripts. Gene ontology enrichment analysis revealed a significant up-regulation of catabolic genes associated with skeletal muscle atrophy. These results were validated by RT-qPCR analysis for ten candidates genes involved in ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis, autophagy and skeletal muscle growth. Additionally, using a primary culture of fish skeletal muscle cells, the effect of cortisol was evaluated in relation to red cusk-eel skeletal muscle atrophy. The present data demonstrated that handling stress promotes skeletal muscle atrophy in the marine teleost G. chilensis through the expression of components of the ubiquitin-proteasome and autophagy-lysosome systems. Furthermore, cortisol was a powerful inductor of skeletal muscle atrophy in fish myotubes. This study is an important step towards understanding the atrophy system in non-model teleost species and provides novel insights on the cellular and molecular mechanisms that control skeletal muscle growth in early vertebrates.

AES, EELS and TRIM simulation method study of InP(100) subjected to Ar+, He+ and H+ ions bombardment.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghaffour, M.; Abdellaoui, A.; Bouslama, M.; Ouerdane, A.; Abidri, B.

2012-06-01

Auger Electron Spectroscopy (AES) and Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS) have been performed in order to investigate the InP(100) surface subjected to ions bombardment. The InP(100) surface is always contaminated by carbon and oxygen revealed by C-KLL and O-KLL AES spectra recorded just after introduction of the sample in the UHV spectrometer chamber. The usually cleaning process of the surface is the bombardment by argon ions. However, even at low energy of ions beam (300 eV) indium clusters and phosphorus vacancies are usually formed on the surface. The aim of our study is to compare the behaviour of the surface when submitted to He+ or H+ ions bombardment. The helium ions accelerated at 500V voltage and for 45 mn allow removing contaminants but induces damaged and no stoichiometric surface. The proton ions were accelerated at low energy of 500 eV to bombard the InP surface at room temperature. The proton ions broke the In-P chemical bonds to induce the formation of In metal islands. Such a chemical reactivity between hydrogen and phosphorus led to form chemical species such as PH and PH3, which desorbed from the surface. The chemical susceptibly and the small size of H+ advantaged their diffusion into bulk. Since the experimental methods alone were not able to give us with accuracy the disturbed depth of the target by these ions. We associate to the AES and EELS spectroscopies, the TRIM (Transport and Range of Ions in Matter) simulation method in order to show the mechanism of interaction between Ar+, He+ or H+ ions and InP and determine the disturbed depth of the target by argon, helium or proton ions.

Incidence of antimicrobial-resistance genes and integrons in antibiotic-resistant bacteria isolated from eels and aquaculture ponds.

PubMed

Lin, Mao; Wu, Xiaomei; Yan, Qingpi; Ma, Ying; Huang, Lixing; Qin, Yingxue; Xu, Xiaojin

2016-07-07

The overuse of antimicrobials in aquaculture has promoted the selection of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Here we investigated the abundance of antimicrobial-resistance genes and integrons in 108 strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria isolated from eels and aquaculture ponds in China. Conventional PCR was implemented to examine common antibiotic-resistance genes, integrons, and their gene cassette arrays. The results showed that the antibiotic-resistance genes blaTEM, tetC, sulI, aadA, floR, and qnrB were detected at high percentages, as were a number of other resistance genes. Class I integrons were present in 79.63% of the strains, and 10 out of 108 isolates carried class II integrons. Class III integrons were not detected. Three strains carried both class I and class II integrons, and 73.26% of the class I integron-positive isolates contained the qacEΔ1/sul1 gene. Fourteen types of integron cassette arrays were found among class I integron-positive isolates. A new array, dfrB4-catB3-blaOXA-10-aadA1, was discovered in this study. The gene cassette array dfrA12-orfF-aadA2 was the most widely distributed. In summary, 23 different gene cassettes encoding resistance to 8 classes of antibiotics were identified in the class I integrons, and the main cassettes contained genes encoding resistance to aminoglycosides (aad) and trimethoprim (dfr). All class II integron-positive strains had only a single gene cassette array, viz. dfrA1-catB2-sat2-aadA1. High levels of antimicrobial-resistance genes and integrons in eels and auqauculture ponds suggest that the overuse of antimicrobials should be strictly controlled and that the levels of bacterial antimicrobial-resistance genes in aquaculture should be monitored.

Plasmon 3D Electron Tomography and Local Electric-Field Enhancement of Engineered Plasmonic Nanoantennas

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Archanjo, B. S.; Vasconcelos, T. L.; Oliveira, B. S.

Plasmonic nano-antennas are pushing the limits of optical imaging resolution capabilities in near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM). Accordingly, these techniques are driving the basic understanding of photonic and optoelectronic nanoscale devices with applications in sensing, energy conversion, solid-state lighting and information technology. Imaging the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) at the nanoscale is a key to understanding the optical responses of a given tip geometry in order to engineer better plasmonic nano-antennas for near-field experiments. In recent years the advancement of focused ion beam technology provides the ability to directly modify plasmonic structures with nanometer resolution. Also, scanning transmission electronmore » microscopy (STEM) with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) is an established technique allowing imaging of LSPR. Specifically, the combination of these two techniques provides spectrally sensitive two-dimensional (2D) imaging information to better visualize and understand LSPR on the nanometer scale. This can be combined with electron tomography to provide the three-dimensional LSPR distribution. Here in this paper we demonstrate the fabrication of Au nano-pyramids using helium ion microscopy, and analyze the LSPR in 3D reconstructions produced by total variation (TV)-norm minimization of a set of 2D STEM-EELS maps. Additionally, a boundary element simulation method was used to verify the experimentally observed nanopyramid LSPR modes. Finally, we show that the point-spread-functions (PSF) of LSPR mode hot spots in nanopyramids differ to local electric-field enhancement under optical excitation making direct comparison to NSOM experimental resolution difficult. However, the STEM-EELS results show how LSPR modes are influenced by the tip characteristics, which can inform the development of new nano-antenna designs.« less

Population genetics of Vibrio vulnificus: identification of two divisions and a distinct eel-pathogenic clone.

PubMed

Gutacker, Michaela; Conza, Nadine; Benagli, Cinzia; Pedroli, Ambra; Bernasconi, Marco Valerio; Permin, Lise; Aznar, Rosa; Piffaretti, Jean-Claude

2003-06-01

Genetic relationships among 62 Vibrio vulnificus strains of different geographical and host origins were analyzed by multilocus enzyme electrophoresis (MLEE), random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD), and sequence analyses of the recA and glnA genes. Out of 15 genetic loci analyzed by MLEE, 11 were polymorphic. Cluster analysis identified 43 distinct electrophoretic types (ETs) separating the V. vulnificus population into two divisions (divisions I and II). One ET (ET 35) included all indole-negative isolates from diseased eels worldwide (biotype 2). A second ET (ET 2) marked all of the strains from Israel isolated from patients who handled St. Peter's fish (biotype 3). RAPD analysis of the 62 V. vulnificus isolates identified 26 different profiles separated into two divisions as well. In general, this subdivision was comparable (but not identical) to that observed by MLEE. Phylogenetic analysis of 543 bp of the recA gene and of 402 bp of the glnA gene also separated the V. vulnificus population into two major divisions in a manner similar to that by MLEE and RAPD. Sequence data again indicated the overall subdivision of the V. vulnificus population into different biotypes. In particular, indole-negative eel-pathogenic isolates (biotype 2) on one hand and the Israeli isolates (biotype 3) on the other tended to cluster together in both gene trees. None of the methods showed an association between distinct clones and human clinical manifestations. Furthermore, except for the Israeli strains, only minor clusters comprising geographically related isolates were observed. In conclusion, all three approaches (MLEE, RAPD, and DNA sequencing) generated comparable but not always equivalent results. The significance of the two divisions (divisions I and II) still remains to be clarified, and a reevaluation of the definition of the biotypes is also needed.

Alexander von Humboldt: galvanism, animal electricity, and self-experimentation part 2: the electric eel, animal electricity, and later years.

PubMed

Finger, Stanley; Piccolino, Marco; Stahnisch, Frank W

2013-01-01

After extensive experimentation during the 1790s, Alexander von Humboldt remained skeptical about "animal electricity" (and metallic electricity), writing instead about an ill-defined galvanic force. With his worldview and wishing to learn more, he studied electric eels in South America just as the new century began, again using his body as a scientific instrument in many of his experiments. As had been the case in the past and for many of the same reasons, some of his findings with the electric eel (and soon after, Italian torpedoes) seemed to argue against biological electricity. But he no longer used galvanic terminology when describing his electric fish experiments. The fact that he now wrote about animal electricity rather than a different "galvanic" force owed much to Alessandro Volta, who had come forth with his "pile" (battery) for multipling the physical and perceptable effects of otherwise weak electricity in 1800, while Humboldt was deep in South America. Humboldt probably read about and saw voltaic batteries in the United States in 1804, but the time he spent with Volta in 1805 was probably more significant in his conversion from a galvanic to an electrical framework for understanding nerve and muscle physiology. Although he did not continue his animal electricity research program after this time, Humboldt retained his worldview of a unified nature and continued to believe in intrinsic animal electricity. He also served as a patron to some of the most important figures in the new field of electrophysiology (e.g., Hermann Helmholtz and Emil du Bois-Reymond), helping to take the research that he had participated in to the next level.

Plasmon 3D Electron Tomography and Local Electric-Field Enhancement of Engineered Plasmonic Nanoantennas

DOE PAGES

Archanjo, B. S.; Vasconcelos, T. L.; Oliveira, B. S.; ...

2018-06-01

Plasmonic nano-antennas are pushing the limits of optical imaging resolution capabilities in near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM). Accordingly, these techniques are driving the basic understanding of photonic and optoelectronic nanoscale devices with applications in sensing, energy conversion, solid-state lighting and information technology. Imaging the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) at the nanoscale is a key to understanding the optical responses of a given tip geometry in order to engineer better plasmonic nano-antennas for near-field experiments. In recent years the advancement of focused ion beam technology provides the ability to directly modify plasmonic structures with nanometer resolution. Also, scanning transmission electronmore » microscopy (STEM) with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) is an established technique allowing imaging of LSPR. Specifically, the combination of these two techniques provides spectrally sensitive two-dimensional (2D) imaging information to better visualize and understand LSPR on the nanometer scale. This can be combined with electron tomography to provide the three-dimensional LSPR distribution. Here in this paper we demonstrate the fabrication of Au nano-pyramids using helium ion microscopy, and analyze the LSPR in 3D reconstructions produced by total variation (TV)-norm minimization of a set of 2D STEM-EELS maps. Additionally, a boundary element simulation method was used to verify the experimentally observed nanopyramid LSPR modes. Finally, we show that the point-spread-functions (PSF) of LSPR mode hot spots in nanopyramids differ to local electric-field enhancement under optical excitation making direct comparison to NSOM experimental resolution difficult. However, the STEM-EELS results show how LSPR modes are influenced by the tip characteristics, which can inform the development of new nano-antenna designs.« less

Modulating optical properties of graphene oxide: role of prominent functional groups.

PubMed

Johari, Priya; Shenoy, Vivek B

2011-09-27

To modulate the electronic and optical properties of graphene oxide via controlled deoxidation, a proper understanding of the role of the individual functional group in determining these properties is required. We, therefore, have performed ab initio density functional theory based calculations to study the electronic and optical properties of model structures of graphene oxide with different coverages and compositions. In particular, we considered various concentrations of major functional groups like epoxides, hydroxyls, and carbonyls, which mainly consititute the graphene oxide and the reduced graphene oxide. Our calculated electron energy loss spectra (EELS) demonstrate the π plasmon peak to be less sensitive, while π + σ plasmon is found to have a significant blue shift of about 1.0-3.0 eV, when the concentration of epoxy and hydroxyl functional groups in graphene oxide vary from 25% to 75%. However, the increase in carbonyl groups in the center of the graphene sheet creates holes, which lead to the red shift of the EELS. In the case of 37.5% of oxygen-to-carbon ratio, we find the π plasmon peak to be shifted by roughly 1.0 eV as compared to that of the pristine graphene. Our results agree well with the experimental findings which suggest a blue shift in the EELS of graphene oxide and an absorption feature due to a π electron transition of the carbonyl groups at a lower energy than that of epoxy and hydroxyl groups. We also show that the increase in the width of the hole created by the carbonyl groups significantly decreases the optical gap and opens the band gap, and thus, we argue that reduced graphene oxide with mostly carbonyl groups could be a useful material for developing tunable opto-electronic nanodevices. © 2011 American Chemical Society

Quantification of bupivacaine hydrochloride and isoflupredone acetate residues in porcine muscle, beef, milk, egg, shrimp, flatfish, and eel using a simplified extraction method coupled with liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry.

PubMed

Cho, Sang-Hyun; Park, Jin-A; Zheng, Weijia; Abd El-Aty, A M; Kim, Seong-Kwan; Choi, Jeong-Min; Yi, Hee; Cho, Soo-Min; Afifi, Nehal A; Shim, Jae-Han; Chang, Byung-Joon; Kim, Jin-Suk; Shin, Ho-Chul

2017-10-15

In this study, a simple analytical approach has been developed and validated for the determination of bupivacaine hydrochloride and isoflupredone acetate residues in porcine muscle, beef, milk, egg, shrimp, flatfish, and eel using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). A 0.1% solution of acetic acid in acetonitrile combined with n-hexane was used for deproteinization and defatting of all tested matrices and the target drugs were well separated on a Waters Xbridge™ C18 analytical column using a mobile phase consisting of 0.1% acetic acid (A) and 0.1% solution of acetic acid in methanol (B). The linearity estimated from six-point matrix-matched calibrations was good, with coefficients of determination ≥0.9873. The limits of quantification (LOQs) for bupivacaine hydrochloride and isoflupredone acetate were 1 and 2ngg -1 , respectively. Recovery percentages in the ranges of 72.51-112.39% (bupivacaine hydrochloride) and 72.58-114.56% (isoflupredone acetate) were obtained from three different fortification concentrations with relative standard deviations (RSDs) of <15.14%. All samples for the experimental work and method application were collected from the local markets in Seoul, Republic of Korea, and none of them tested positive for the target drugs. In conclusion, a simple method using a 0.1% solution of acetic acid in acetonitrile and n-hexane followed by LC-MS/MS could effectively extract bupivacaine hydrochloride and isoflupredone acetate from porcine muscle, beef, milk, egg, shrimp, flatfish, and eel samples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Algal-mediated ecosystem exchanges in the Eel River drainage network: towards photogrammetric mapping of color to function

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Power, M. E.; Welter, J.; Furey, P.; Lowe, R.; Finlay, J. C.; Hondzo, M.; Limm, M.; Bode, C.; Dietrich, W. E.

2009-12-01

Seasonal algal proliferations in river networks are typically short-lived (weeks-months) but spatially extensive. They mediate important ecological and biogeochemical exchanges within and between ecosystems. We are investigating correspondence of assemblage color with ecosystem function in the nitrogen-limited Eel River of northern California. During summer base flow following winter floods, Eel algal assemblages are dominated by the green macroalga Cladophora glomerata. New growths are green, but blooms turn yellow as Cladophora filaments are colonized by epiphytic diatoms (Cocconeis spp.). Later, proliferations turn rust colored as epiphytic assemblages became dominated by Epithemia spp., diatoms that contain nitrogen-fixing cyanobacterial endosymbionts. Epithemia-encrusted Cladophora occurs at and downstream of reaches draining > 100 km2 (where summer inundated average channel widths > 25 m), coinciding with a threshold increase in concentration of total dissolved nitrogen. Areal nitrogen fixation rates are 14x higher in rusty algal proliferations than in green, and 3-4x higher than in yellow Cladophora mats. Corresponding increases in insect emergence suggest that nitrogen fixed by cyanobacterial endosymbionts is highly edible. Rates of biomass emergence from rusty Cladophora mats are 12-17 times greater than from green mats, and 8-10 times greater from rusty than from yellow Cladophora mats, because larger taxa emerge from rusty mats (Chironominae versus Ceratopogonidae in yellow mats). Photogrammetric detection of spatial coverage and color changes in algal proliferations may help us track nitrogen fluxes they mediate (riverine loading from the atmosphere via fixation, river to the watershed return via insect emergence) that link riverine to aerial, watershed, and potentially nearshore marine ecosystems at reach to basin scales.

Ecology of an Eel Grass Community

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Etri, Lawrence

1978-01-01

Analyzing a square meter of a Zostera community on Long Island's South Shore, this article illustrates the relationship between primary energy producer and primary and secondary energy consumer populations within the Zostera community. Specific plant-animal relationships based upon knowledge of estuarine environments are discussed. (JC)

Electronic properties of Mn-phthalocyanine–C{sub 60} bulk heterojunctions: Combining photoemission and electron energy-loss spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Roth, Friedrich; Herzig, Melanie; Knupfer, Martin

2015-11-14

The electronic properties of co-evaporated mixtures (blends) of manganese phthalocyanine and the fullerene C{sub 60} (MnPc:C{sub 60}) have been studied as a function of the concentration of the two constituents using two supplementary electron spectroscopic methods, photoemission spectroscopy (PES) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) in transmission. Our PES measurements provide a detailed picture of the electronic structure measured with different excitation energies as well as different mixing ratios between MnPc and C{sub 60}. Besides a relative energy shift, the occupied electronic states of the two materials remain essentially unchanged. The observed energy level alignment is different compared to that ofmore » the related CuPc:C{sub 60} bulk heterojunction. Moreover, the results from our EELS investigations show that, despite the rather small interface interaction, the MnPc related electronic excitation spectrum changes significantly by admixing C{sub 60} to MnPc thin films.« less

Templating effect of the substrate on the structure of Cu-phthalocyanine thin film

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pierantozzi, Gian Marco; Sbroscia, Marco; Ruocco, Alessandro

2018-03-01

An experimental study of electronic properties, structure and morphology of Copper-phthalocyanine films deposited onto Al(100) and Au(110), as a function of thickness up to tens of nanometers, is presented. The monolayers grown on these two model substrates are already known to exhibit very different behavior for what concerns both the degree of interaction with the substrate and the formation of long range order; in this experiment, by means of low energy electron scattering and Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS), remarkable differences are revealed also in the successive growth. Exploiting the link between the crystal structure and the lineshape of HOMO-LUMO transition in EELS spectrum, two different structural phases are identified, compatible with α and β phases, respectively in the case of the film grown on aluminum and on gold. Besides, the evolution of the specular reflection elastic peak indicates the formation of islands on the gold substrate and a more homogeneous growth on the aluminum one.

Isolation of prolactin and growth hormone from the pituitary of the holostean fish Amia calva.

PubMed

Dores, R M; Noso, T; Rand-Weaver, M; Kawauchi, H

1993-06-01

Pituitaries from adult male and female Amia calva (Order Holostei) were acid extracted and fractionated by gel filtration column chromatography and reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography. This two-step isolation procedure yielded homogeneous pools of Amia prolaction (PRL) and growth hormone (GH). The amino acid composition of both purified polypeptides was determined. Primary sequence analysis of the first 22 positions at the N-terminal of Amia PRL revealed that this region has 63% sequence identity with eel PRL-1. The N-terminal region of Amia PRL lacks the disulfide bridge which is characteristic of tetrapod PRLs. Primary sequence analysis of the first 24 positions at the N-terminal of Amia GH revealed that this region has 62% sequence identity with eel GH and 54% sequence identity with both blue shark GH and sea turtle GH. Based on N-terminal analysis, it appears that Amia PRL and GH are more closely related to teleost PRLs and GHs than they are to tetrapod PRLs and GHs.

Epitaxial growth of CoO films on semiconductor and metal substrates by constructing a complex heterostructure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Entani, S.; Kiguchi, M.; Saiki, K.; Koma, A.

2003-01-01

Epitaxial growth of CoO films was studied using reflection high-energy electron diffraction (RHEED), electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS), ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). The RHEED results indicated that an epitaxial CoO film grew on semiconductor and metal substrates (CoO (0 0 1)∥GaAs (0 0 1), Cu (0 0 1), Ag (0 0 1) and [1 0 0]CoO∥[1 0 0] substrates) by constructing a complex heterostructure with two alkali halide buffer layers. The AES, EELS and UPS results showed that the grown CoO film had almost the same electronic structure as bulk CoO. We could show that use of alkali halide buffer layers was a good way to grow metal oxide films on semiconductor and metal substrates in an O 2 atmosphere. The alkali halide layers not only works as glue to connect very dissimilar materials but also prevents oxidation of metal and semiconductor substrates.

Gastrointestinal motor inhibition by exogenous human, salmon, and eel calcitonin in conscious dogs.

PubMed

Nakamura, H; Asano, T; Haruta, K; Takeda, K

1995-01-01

Effects of synthetic eel (E-), salmon (S-), and human (H-) calcitonin (CT) on gastrointestinal motility were studied in conscious beagle dogs, which had been implanted with strain gauge force transducers. Intramuscular administration of E-, S-, or H-CT interrupted gastric migrating motor complexes, digestive pattern, and gastric emptying. The order of potency was E-CT = S-CT > H-CT. Motor inhibition induced by CT occurred independently of plasma immunoreactive motilin levels or hypocalcemia. In addition, E-CT and S-CT induced vomiting without a retrograde giant contraction (RGC) during the postprandial state. Apomorphine or CuSO4 initiated RGC prior to vomiting. RGC induced by apomorphine was inhibited by pretreatment with E-CT as well as hexamethonium, atropine, or surgical vagotomy. E-CT showed no inhibitory effect on nicotine stimulated contraction of isolated guinea-pig ileum. These results suggest that peripherally administered CT inhibits canine gastrointestinal motility at the central nervous system level by lowering vagal activity.

[The South-American eel. Two early letters on animal electricity from the Dutch colonies].

PubMed

Koehler, P J; Finger, S

2008-01-01

Speculations about the nature of nerve action, including animal spirits, date back to antiquity. Only during the 18th century, when it became possible to store electricity in Leyden jars, did natural philosophers begin to realise that the sensations caused by electric fish are like those produced by these primitive capacitors. The important roles played by amateur observers in the Dutch colonies of South-America, and how they communicated with more established Dutch scientists in The Netherlands, are often relatively overlooked in histories of how the nerves became electrical. In this article we examine two mid-18th-century letters from South-America to the Netherlands. Both dealt with what would soon be called the electric eel, and were published in the proceedings of the first Dutch Society of Science (in Haarlem). The discovery of the electric nature of the shocks produced by these fish in particular proved to be a crucial step in understanding animal electricity and the true nature of neurophysiology.

Studies on food organisms of pelagic fishes as revealed by the 1979 North Atlantic Eel Expedition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Appelbaum, S.

1982-09-01

The extent to which pelagic fishes occurring in the Sargasso Sea and adjacent parts of the Atlantic prey on leptocephali (Anguilliformes) was investigated. Most of the fishes examined (c. 95%) were collected using a commercial pelagical trawl. The stomach contents of about 1000 fishes (25 species of 10 families), mostly belonging to the suborders Myctophoidei, Stomiatoidei and the order Anguilliformes, were examined. The remains of invertebrates, mainly crustaceans, molluscs, tunicates, chaetognaths, and siphonophores were found in 28.8 % of the stomachs. Fishes, mostly myctophids or fish remains, were observed in 11.2 % of the stomachs; 18.7 % contained unidentified items and 40.6 % were empty. Leptocephali ( Ariosoma spp. and Gnathophis sp.) were found in the alimentary tract of 0.5 % of the fishes examined, exclusively represented by the myctophid, Ceratoscopelus warmingii. This report indicates that the Sargasso Sea population of Anguilla leptocephali, economically the most important eel, is not seriously affected by predation of oceanic fish species considered in this study.

Relaxation of ferroelectric states in 2D distributions of quantum dots: EELS simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cortés, C. M.; Meza-Montes, L.; Moctezuma, R. E.; Carrillo, J. L.

2016-06-01

The relaxation time of collective electronic states in a 2D distribution of quantum dots is investigated theoretically by simulating EELS experiments. From the numerical calculation of the probability of energy loss of an electron beam, traveling parallel to the distribution, it is possible to estimate the damping time of ferroelectric-like states. We generate this collective response of the distribution by introducing a mean field interaction among the quantum dots, and then, the model is extended incorporating effects of long-range correlations through a Bragg-Williams approximation. The behavior of the dielectric function, the energy loss function, and the relaxation time of ferroelectric-like states is then investigated as a function of the temperature of the distribution and the damping constant of the electronic states in the single quantum dots. The robustness of the trends and tendencies of our results indicate that this scheme of analysis can guide experimentalists to develop tailored quantum dots distributions for specific applications.

Characterization of nanoscale spatial distribution of small molecules in amorphous polymer matrices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ricarte, Ralm; Hillmyer, Marc; Lodge, Timothy

Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose acetate succinate (HPMCAS) can significantly enhance the efficacy of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Yet, the interactions between species in HPMCAS-API blends are not understood. Elucidating these interactions is difficult because the spatial distributions of HPMCAS and API in the blends are ambiguous; the polymer and drug may be molecularly mixed or the species may form phase separated domains. As these phase separated domains may be less than 100 nm in size, traditional characterization techniques may not accurately evaluate the spatial distribution. To address this challenge, we explore the use of electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) for detecting the model API phenytoin in an HPMCAS-phenytoin blend. Using EELS, we directly measured with high accuracy and precision the phenytoin concentrations in several blends. We present evidence that suggests phase separation occurs in blends that have a phenytoin loading of approximately 50 wt percent. Finally, we demonstrate that this technique achieves a sub-100 nm spatial resolution and can detect several other APIs.

Histological features of the gastrointestinal tract of wild Indonesian shortfin eel, Anguilla bicolor bicolor (McClelland, 1844), captured in Peninsular Malaysia.

PubMed

Nasruddin, Nurrul Shaqinah; Azmai, Mohammad Noor Amal; Ismail, Ahmad; Saad, Mohd Zamri; Daud, Hassan Mohd; Zulkifli, Syaizwan Zahmir

2014-01-01

This study was conducted to record the histological features of the gastrointestinal tract of wild Indonesian shortfin eel, Anguilla bicolor bicolor (McClelland, 1844), captured in Peninsular Malaysia. The gastrointestinal tract was segmented into the oesophagus, stomach, and intestine. Then, the oesophagus was divided into five (first to fifth), the stomach into two (cardiac and pyloric), and the intestine into four segments (anterior, intermediate, posterior, and rectum) for histological examinations. The stomach had significantly taller villi and thicker inner circular muscles compared to the intestine and oesophagus. The lamina propria was thickest in stomach, significantly when compared with oesophagus, but not with the intestine. However, the intestine showed significantly thicker outer longitudinal muscle while gastric glands were observed only in the stomach. The histological features were closely associated with the functions of the different segments of the gastrointestinal tract. In conclusion, the histological features of the gastrointestinal tract of A. b. bicolor are consistent with the feeding habit of a carnivorous fish.

A novel method for the functionalization of aminoacids L-glycine, L-glutamic acid and L-arginine on maghemite/magnetite nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bruno, A. J.; Correa, J. R.; Peláez-Abellán, E.; Urones-Garrote, E.

2018-06-01

Nanoparticles of maghemite/magnetite functionalized with L-glycine, L-glutamic acid and L-arginine were synthesized by a novel method. The novel procedure consists in an alternative of that reported by Massart for the precipitation of magnetite in which the aminoacid is added in the carboxylate form. The amounts of aminoacid in the initial molar concentrations were 35%, 45% and 65% with respect to the ferrophase. The obtained nanoparticles were characterized by several techniques: X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform IR spectroscopy (FT-IR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and magnetometry. The IR spectroscopy confirmed that the selected aminoacids were functionalized on the surface of iron oxide. XRD and EELS confirm that iron oxide consists of a maghemite-magnetite intermediate phase with an average particle size about 6 nm, which was measured by transmission electron microscopy. The superparamagnetic character of the nanoparticles was evaluated by magnetometry.

Phonon-assisted damping of plasmons in three- and two-dimensional metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caruso, Fabio; Novko, Dino; Draxl, Claudia

2018-05-01

We investigate the effects of crystal lattice vibrations on the dispersion of plasmons. The loss function of the homogeneous electron gas (HEG) in two and three dimensions is evaluated numerically in the presence of electronic coupling to an optical phonon mode. Our calculations are based on many-body perturbation theory for the dielectric function as formulated by the Hedin-Baym equations in the Fan-Migdal approximation. The coupling to phonons broadens the spectral signatures of plasmons in the electron-energy loss spectrum (EELS) and it induces the decay of plasmons on timescales shorter than 1 ps. Our results further reveal the formation of a kink in the plasmon dispersion of the two-dimensional HEG, which marks the onset of plasmon-phonon scattering. Overall, these features constitute a fingerprint of plasmon-phonon coupling in EELS of simple metals. It is shown that these effects may be accounted for by resorting to a simplified treatment of the electron-phonon interaction which is amenable to first-principles calculations.

Presence and Formation Mechanism of Foodborne Carbonaceous Nanostructures from Roasted Pike Eel ( Muraenesox cinereus).

PubMed

Bi, Jingran; Li, Yao; Wang, Haitao; Song, Yukun; Cong, Shuang; Yu, Chenxu; Zhu, Bei-Wei; Tan, Mingqian

2018-03-21

Foodborne nanostructures have gained more and more attention in recent years. In this paper, the presence and physicochemical properties of carbonaceous nanostructures (CNSs) from roasted pike eel ( Muraenesox cinereus) were reported. The monodispersed CNSs are strongly photoluminescent under the illustration of ultraviolet (UV) light, with a fluorescent quantum yield of 80.16%, and display excitation-dependent emission behavior. The formation of CNSs is believed to go through a process of morphology evolution, including polymerization, pyrolysis, nucleation, growth, emergence, and blossom. The optical properties of the CNSs were shown to be affected by the roasting temperature. Furthermore, cellular uptake of the CNSs was investigated, and it is shown that the CNSs were clearly absorbed into live cells and were mainly distributed within the cell cytoplasm and not in the cell nucleus. This work is among the very first reports on CNSs present in roasted fish, providing valuable insights into the formation mechanism of such nanostructures and showcasing the biodistribution of these food-originated CNSs in live cells.

From video to computation of biological fluid-structure interaction problems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dillard, Seth I.; Buchholz, James H. J.; Udaykumar, H. S.

2016-04-01

This work deals with the techniques necessary to obtain a purely Eulerian procedure to conduct CFD simulations of biological systems with moving boundary flow phenomena. Eulerian approaches obviate difficulties associated with mesh generation to describe or fit flow meshes to body surfaces. The challenges associated with constructing embedded boundary information, body motions and applying boundary conditions on the moving bodies for flow computation are addressed in the work. The overall approach is applied to the study of a fluid-structure interaction problem, i.e., the hydrodynamics of swimming of an American eel, where the motion of the eel is derived from video imaging. It is shown that some first-blush approaches do not work, and therefore, careful consideration of appropriate techniques to connect moving images to flow simulations is necessary and forms the main contribution of the paper. A combination of level set-based active contour segmentation with optical flow and image morphing is shown to enable the image-to-computation process.

The uniformity study of non-oxide thin film at device level using electron energy loss spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Zhi-Peng; Zheng, Yuankai; Li, Shaoping; Wang, Haifeng

2018-05-01

Electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) has been widely used as a chemical analysis technique to characterize materials chemical properties, such as element valence states, atoms/ions bonding environment. This study provides a new method to characterize physical properties (i.e., film uniformity, grain orientations) of non-oxide thin films in the magnetic device by using EELS microanalysis on scanning transmission electron microscope. This method is based on analyzing white line ratio of spectra and related extended energy loss fine structures so as to correlate it with thin film uniformity. This new approach can provide an effective and sensitive method to monitor/characterize thin film quality (i.e., uniformity) at atomic level for thin film development, which is especially useful for examining ultra-thin films (i.e., several nanometers) or embedded films in devices for industry applications. More importantly, this technique enables development of quantitative characterization of thin film uniformity and it would be a remarkably useful technique for examining various types of devices for industrial applications.

Femtosecond MeV Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy

DOE PAGES

Li, R. K.; Wang, X. J.

2017-11-09

Pump-probe electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) with femtosecond temporal resolution will be a transformative research tool for studying nonequilibrium chemistry and electronic dynamics of matter. Here in this article, we propose a concept of femtosecond EELS utilizing mega-electron-volt electron beams from a radio-frequency (rf) photocathode source. The high acceleration gradient and high beam energy of the rf gun are critical to the generation of 10-fs electron beams, which enables an improvement of the temporal resolution by more than 1 order of magnitude beyond the state of the art. In our proposal, the “referencebeam technique” relaxes the energy stability requirement of themore » rf power source by roughly 2 orders of magnitude. The requirements for the electron-beam quality, photocathode, spectrometer, and detector are also discussed. Supported by particle-tracking simulations, we demonstrate the feasibility of achieving subelectron- volt energy resolution and approximately 10-fs temporal resolution with existing or near-future hardware performance.« less

Monticellia ophisterni n. sp. (Cestoda: Monticelliidae) from the swamp-eel Ophisternon aenigmaticum (Synbranchiformes) from Mexico.

PubMed

Scholz, T; de Chambrier, A; Salgado-Maldonado, G

2001-12-01

Monticellia ophisterni n. sp. is described from the swamp-eel Ophisternon aenigmaticum Rosen and Greenwood (Synbranchiformes: Synbranchidae) from Lake Catemaco, Veracruz, Mexico. The new species is placed into Monticellia because of the cortical position of the testes, ovary, and uterus. It differs from other Monticellia species (with the exception of Monticellia magna (Rego, Santos and Silva, 1974)) in the position of longitudinal musculature that crosses the vitelline follicles, making them paramuscular. The new species can be distinguished from M. magna--which possesses a similar number of testes (107-139), paramuscular vitelline follicles, and numerous gland cells distributed between the apex of the scolex and suckers--in the position of the genital pore (8-21% vs. 19-27%), in the presence of a weak internal longitudinal musculature, in the arrangement of the testes in the median field, and in the absence of a vaginal sphincter. This is the first proteocephalidean tapeworm reported from a synbranchid fish and the first species of Monticellia found in North America.

A tail of two voltages: Proteomic comparison of the three electric organs of the electric eel

PubMed Central

Traeger, Lindsay L.; Sabat, Grzegorz; Barrett-Wilt, Gregory A.; Wells, Gregg B.; Sussman, Michael R.

2017-01-01

The electric eel (Electrophorus electricus) is unusual among electric fishes because it has three pairs of electric organs that serve multiple biological functions: For navigation and communication, it emits continuous pulses of weak electric discharge (<1 V), but for predation and defense, it intermittently emits lethal strong electric discharges (10 to 600 V). We hypothesized that these two electrogenic outputs have different energetic demands reflected by differences in their proteome and phosphoproteome. We report the use of isotope-assisted quantitative mass spectrometry to test this hypothesis. We observed novel phosphorylation sites in sodium transporters and identified a potassium channel with unique differences in protein concentration among the electric organs. In addition, we found transcription factors and protein kinases that show differential abundance in the strong versus weak electric organs. Our findings support the hypothesis that proteomic differences among electric organs underlie differences in energetic needs, reflecting a trade-off between generating weak voltages continuously and strong voltages intermittently. PMID:28695212

Femtosecond MeV Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Li, R. K.; Wang, X. J.

Pump-probe electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) with femtosecond temporal resolution will be a transformative research tool for studying nonequilibrium chemistry and electronic dynamics of matter. Here in this article, we propose a concept of femtosecond EELS utilizing mega-electron-volt electron beams from a radio-frequency (rf) photocathode source. The high acceleration gradient and high beam energy of the rf gun are critical to the generation of 10-fs electron beams, which enables an improvement of the temporal resolution by more than 1 order of magnitude beyond the state of the art. In our proposal, the “referencebeam technique” relaxes the energy stability requirement of themore » rf power source by roughly 2 orders of magnitude. The requirements for the electron-beam quality, photocathode, spectrometer, and detector are also discussed. Supported by particle-tracking simulations, we demonstrate the feasibility of achieving subelectron- volt energy resolution and approximately 10-fs temporal resolution with existing or near-future hardware performance.« less

Environmental Assessment of the Relocation of a Weather Training Facility to Keesler Air Force Base, Biloxi, Mississippi

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-09-15

Notropis venustus Blacktail shiner A Ogcocephalus nasutus Shortnose batfish R Oligoplites saurus * Leatherjacket C Ophichthus gomesi Shrimp eel A...petenense Threadfin shad A Echeneis naucrates Sharksucker R Eleotris pisonis Spinycheek sleeper C Elops saurus Ladyfish A Epirephelus drummondhayi

50 CFR 32.39 - Maryland.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... or under) must remain within sight and normal voice contact of an adult age 18 or older. Children... caliber or larger with not less than 60 grains of black powder or a black powder equivalent. ii. We... shiner, eel, and sunfish (includes bluegill, black crappie, warmouth, and pumpkinseed). Maryland State...

War on lampreys

USGS Publications Warehouse

Moffett, James W.

1953-01-01

Vampire-like sea lampreys look somewhat like short sections of garden hose, swim like eels, and live solely on the blood of fishes. Their voracious appetites have been especially harmful to fish in the Great Lakes, and it is there that methods of underwater electrocution are being applied in their control.

MODELING COUPLING OF EEL GRASS ZOSTRA MARINA AND WATER FLOW

EPA Science Inventory

Ecological effects caused by submerged aquatic vegetation not only depend on the plants and their morphology but also on the flow and transport patterns of dissolved and suspended constituents near the canopy. The height of the canopy is a major parameter in any quantitative an...

Estimates of Population Exposure to Ambient Chromium ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

... 1!~~1~~~~f~~~~~t~k':.~:Yf ... Chicago, IL 2,142,814 40 Jones & Laughlin, East Chicago, I~ l,!o08,S53 17 I I I I I I ' i I I i I i I I ! ! I ! f. Simonds S!:eel ...

U.S. EPA, Pesticide Product Label, ROCKLAND KLEEN-KOW CONCENTRATE DAIRY & LIVESTOCK SPRAY CONT. CIODRIN &, 12/17/1968

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

2011-04-14

... "~-' ;c-+:cns 1 .... ._""- .. u,-_ u~c ~ack~~Lbers or ~ace ru~~e~~ ~ce ~l;es, ~'lX 1 :uart "~r 4 ~a!lQ~s . ) .". trJt1on. :_1~:; ~a': ~e ~~e:;el !~e~ cr ...

ARC-2007-ACD07-0073-044

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-04-14

Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) and P.I. at NASA Ames Research Center - (l to r) Kim Ennico, Damon Flansburg and Gi Kojima check out the LCROSS Total Luminance Photometer lens and electronics attached to a metal plate in preparation for a vibe (vibration) test on the shake table in N-2444 EEL Laboratory

Long-term kinematics and sediment flux of an active earthflow, Eel River, California

Treesearch

B. H. Mackey; J. J. Roering; J. A. McKean

2009-01-01

Although earthflows are the dominant erosion mechanism in many mountainous landscapes, estimates of long-term earthflow-driven sediment flux remain elusive because landslide displacement data are typically limited to contemporary time periods. Combining high-resolution topography from airborne LiDAR (light detection and ranging), total station surveying, orthorectified...

50 CFR 32.39 - Maryland.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... not block traffic or gates (see §27.31(h) of this chapter). 8. We restrict you to the selected area.... Anglers may take the following species: Chain pickerel, catfish, golden shiner, eel, and sunfish (includes... otherwise noted. i. All bluegill taken must be 6 inches (15 cm) or larger. ii. We allow take of one chain...

Rooting and acclimatization of micropropagated marubakaido apple rootstock using Adesmia latifolia rhizobia.

PubMed

Muniz, Aleksander Westphal; de Sá, Enilson Luiz; Dalagnol, Gilberto Luíz; Filho, João Américo

2013-01-01

In vitro rooting and the acclimatization of micropropagated rootstocks of apple trees is essential for plant development in the field. The aim of this work was to assess the use of rhizobia of Adesmia latifolia to promote rooting and acclimatization in micropropagated Marubakaido apple rootstock. An experiment involving in vitro rooting and acclimatization was performed with four strains of rhizobium and two controls, one with and the other without the addition of synthetic indoleacetic acid. The inoculated treatments involved the use of sterile inoculum and inoculum containing live rhizobia. The most significant effects on the rooting rate, primary-root length, number of roots, root length, fresh-shoot biomass, and fresh-root biomass were obtained by inoculation with strain EEL16010B and with synthetic indole acetic acid. However, there was no difference in the growth of apple explants in the acclimatization experiments. Strain EEL16010B can be used to induce in vitro rooting of the Marubakaido rootstock and can replace the use of synthetic indoleacetic acid in the rooting of this cultivar.

Anticholinesterase activity of potential therapeutic 5-(1,3,3-trimethylindolinyl) carbamates. (Reannouncement with new availability information)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lieske, C.N.; Gepp, R.T.; Clark, J.H.

1991-12-31

Six N-alkyl and N-aryl 5-(1,3,3-trimethylindolinyl) carbamates were synthesized and studied for their structure-activity relationships in inhibiting eel acetylcholinesterase (AChE). The carbamates were 5-(1,3,3,trimethylindolinyl) N,N-dimethylcarbamate (Cui Xing Ning) (I), 5-(1,3,3-trimethylindolinyl) N-methylcarbamate (II), 5-(1,3,3-trimethylindolinyl) N-ethylcarbamate (III), 5-(1,3,3-trimethylindolinyl) N,Ndiethylcarbamate (IV), 5-(1,3,3-trimethylindolinyl) N-heptylcarbamate (V), and 5-(1,3,3-trimethylindolinyl) N-(3-cholorophenyl)carbamate (VI). The inhibition studies were carried out at 25.0 deg C at pH 7.60. The rank order of the ki values for eel AChE inhibition is 11 > V > I > Ill > Vi > IV. Compound 11 has a greater affinity for the enzyme than any irreversible inhibitor cited in the literature (Kd = 7.14more » x 10(-8)M). Our findings should aid in the application of these carbamates (1) for counteracting the cholinergic problems associated with various diseases,and (2) for developing potential pretreatment compounds for organophosphate poisoning. Acetylcholinesterase, carbamates, inhibition« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Thangadurai, P.; Lumelsky, Yulia; Silverstein, Michael S.

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) cross-section specimens of PMMA in contact with gold and Si were prepared by focused ion beam (FIB) and compared with plan-view PMMA specimens prepared by a dip-coating technique. The specimens were characterized by TEM and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). In the cross-section specimens, the thin films of PMMA were located in a Si-PMMA-Au multilayer. Different thicknesses of PMMA films were spin-coated on the Si substrates. The thickness of the TEM specimens prepared by FIB was estimated using EELS to be 0.65 of the plasmon mean-free-path. Along the PMMA-Au interface, Au particle diffusion into the PMMAmore » was observed, and the size of the Au particles was in the range of 2-4 nm. Dip-coating of PMMA directly on Cu TEM grids resulted in thin specimens with a granular morphology, with a thickness of 0.58 of the plasmon mean-free-path. The dip-coated specimens were free from ion milling induced artifacts, and thus serve as control specimens for comparison with the cross-sectioned specimens prepared by FIB.« less

Real-space localization and quantification of hole distribution in chain-ladder Sr3Ca11Cu24O41 superconductor.

PubMed

Bugnet, Matthieu; Löffler, Stefan; Hawthorn, David; Dabkowska, Hanna A; Luke, Graeme M; Schattschneider, Peter; Sawatzky, George A; Radtke, Guillaume; Botton, Gianluigi A

2016-03-01

Understanding the physical properties of the chain-ladder Sr3Ca11Cu24O41 hole-doped superconductor has been precluded by the unknown hole distribution among chains and ladders. We use electron energy-loss spectrometry (EELS) in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) at atomic resolution to directly separate the contributions of chains and ladders and to unravel the hole distribution from the atomic scale variations of the O-K near-edge structures. The experimental data unambiguously demonstrate that most of the holes lie within the chain layers. A quantitative interpretation supported by inelastic scattering calculations shows that about two holes are located in the ladders, and about four holes in the chains, shedding light on the electronic structure of Sr3Ca11Cu24O41. Combined atomic resolution STEM-EELS and inelastic scattering calculations is demonstrated as a powerful approach toward a quantitative understanding of the electronic structure of cuprate superconductors, offering new possibilities for elucidating their physical properties.

Histological Features of the Gastrointestinal Tract of Wild Indonesian Shortfin Eel, Anguilla bicolor bicolor (McClelland, 1844), Captured in Peninsular Malaysia

PubMed Central

Nasruddin, Nurrul Shaqinah; Azmai, Mohammad Noor Amal; Ismail, Ahmad; Saad, Mohd Zamri; Daud, Hassan Mohd; Zulkifli, Syaizwan Zahmir

2014-01-01

This study was conducted to record the histological features of the gastrointestinal tract of wild Indonesian shortfin eel, Anguilla bicolor bicolor (McClelland, 1844), captured in Peninsular Malaysia. The gastrointestinal tract was segmented into the oesophagus, stomach, and intestine. Then, the oesophagus was divided into five (first to fifth), the stomach into two (cardiac and pyloric), and the intestine into four segments (anterior, intermediate, posterior, and rectum) for histological examinations. The stomach had significantly taller villi and thicker inner circular muscles compared to the intestine and oesophagus. The lamina propria was thickest in stomach, significantly when compared with oesophagus, but not with the intestine. However, the intestine showed significantly thicker outer longitudinal muscle while gastric glands were observed only in the stomach. The histological features were closely associated with the functions of the different segments of the gastrointestinal tract. In conclusion, the histological features of the gastrointestinal tract of A. b. bicolor are consistent with the feeding habit of a carnivorous fish. PMID:25587561

Modelling relativistic effects in momentum-resolved electron energy loss spectroscopy of graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lyon, K.; Mowbray, D. J.; Miskovic, Z. L.

2018-02-01

We present an analytical model for the electron energy loss through a two-dimensional (2D) layer of graphene, fully taking into account relativistic effects. Using two different models for graphene's 2D conductivity, one a two-fluid hydrodynamic model with an added correction to account for the inter-band electron transitions near the Dirac point in undoped graphene, the other derived from ab initio plane-wave time-dependent density functional theory in the frequency domain (PW-TDDFT-ω) calculations applied on a graphene superlattice, we derive various different expressions for the probability density of energy and momentum transfer from the incident electron to graphene. To further compare with electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) experiments that use setups like scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy, we integrated our energy loss functions over a range of wavenumbers, and compared how the choice of range directly affects the shape, position, and relative heights of graphene's π → π* and σ → σ* transition peaks. Comparisons were made with experimental EELS data under different model inputs, revealing again the strong effect that the choice of wavenumber range has on the energy loss.

Pressure and temperature interactions on aerobic metabolism of migrating European silver eel.

PubMed

Scaion, D; Belhomme, M; Sébert, P

2008-12-31

During their migration for reproduction, European eels have to cope with many environmental factors changes. The main changes concern hydrostatic pressure and temperature that are important environmental and physiological factors when considering life in the deep sea. We focus on the consequences of pressure (from 0.1 to 12.1MPa by 1MPa steps) and temperature (9, 15, 22 degrees C) shifts on the oxygen consumption (MO(2)) at the whole animal level. Because of their morphological differences, we are also interested in males and females to evaluate the best conditions for migration. Firstly, whatever temperature, males present higher aerobic capacities than females at atmospheric pressure. Secondly, an increase in temperature increases the pressure effects in males (synergy) but decreases them in females (opposite effects). We raise the hypothesis that two different migration strategies could be used in the water column in order to reach the breeding area: males could tend to privilege pressure and cold waters (deep water) and females, on the other hand, could opt for warmer temperature surface waters.

Analytical electron microscopy as a powerful tool in plant cell biology: examples using electron energy loss spectroscopy and X-ray microanalysis.

PubMed

Lichtenberger, O; Neumann, D

1997-08-01

Energy filtering transmission electron microscopy in combination with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) and quantumchemical calculations opens new possibilities for elemental and bone analysis at the ultrastructural level. The possibilities and limitations of these methods, applied to botanical samples, are discussed and some examples are given. Ca-oxalate crystals in plant cell vacuoles show a specific C K-edge in the electron energy loss spectrum (EELS), which allows a more reliable identification than light microscopical or cytochemical methods. In some dicots crystalline inclusions can be observed in different cell compartments, which are identified as silicon dioxide or calcium silicate by the fine structure of the Si L2,3-edge. Their formation is discussed on the basis of EEL-spectra and quantumchemical calculations. Examples concerning heavy metal detoxification are given for some tolerant plants. In Minuartia Zn is bound as Zn-silicate in cell walls; Armeria accumulates Cu in leaf idioblasts by chelation with phenolic compounds and Cd is precipitated as CdS/phytochelatin-complexes in tomato.

Fluctuating Charge-Order in Optimally Doped Bi- 2212 Revealed by Momentum-resolved Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Husain, Ali; Vig, Sean; Kogar, Anshul; Mishra, Vivek; Rak, Melinda; Mitrano, Matteo; Johnson, Peter; Gu, Genda; Fradkin, Eduardo; Norman, Michael; Abbamonte, Peter

Static charge order is a ubiquitous feature of the underdoped cuprates. However, at optimal doping, charge-order has been thought to be completely suppressed, suggesting an interplay between the charge-ordering and superconducting order parameters. Using Momentum-resolved Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (M-EELS) we show the existence of diffuse fluctuating charge-order in the optimally doped cuprate Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+δ (Bi-2212) at low-temperature. We present full momentum-space maps of both elastic and inelastic scattering at room temperature and below the superconducting transition with 4meV resolution. We show that the ``rods'' of diffuse scattering indicate nematic-like fluctuations, and the energy width defines a fluctuation timescale of 160 fs. We discuss the implications of fluctuating charge-order on the dynamics at optimal doping. This work was supported by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation's EPiQS Initiative through Grant GBMF-4542. An early prototype of the M-EELS instrument was supported by the DOE Center for Emergent Superconductivity under Award No. DE-AC02-98CH10886.

Structure and chemistry of epitaxial ceria thin films on yttria-stabilized zirconia substrates, studied by high resolution electron microscopy

DOE PAGES

Sinclair, Robert; Lee, Sang Chul; Shi, Yezhou; ...

2017-03-18

Here, we have applied aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) to study the structure and chemistry of epitaxial ceria thin films, grown by pulsed laser deposition onto (001) yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) substrates. There are few observable defects apart from the expected mismatch interfacial dislocations and so the films would be expected to have good potential for applications. Under high electron beam dose rate (above about 6000 e-/Å 2s) domains of an ordered structure appear and these are interpreted as being created by oxygen vacancy ordering. The ordered structure does not appear at lower losemore » rates (ca. 2600 e-/Å 2s) and can be removed by imaging under 1 mbar oxygen gas in an environmental TEM. EELS confirms that there is both oxygen deficiency and the associated increase in Ce 3+ versus Ce 4+ cations in the ordered domains. In situ high resolution TEM recordings show the formation of the ordered domains as well as atomic migration along the ceria thin film (001) surface.« less

Structure and chemistry of epitaxial ceria thin films on yttria-stabilized zirconia substrates, studied by high resolution electron microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Sinclair, Robert; Lee, Sang Chul; Shi, Yezhou

Here, we have applied aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) to study the structure and chemistry of epitaxial ceria thin films, grown by pulsed laser deposition onto (001) yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) substrates. There are few observable defects apart from the expected mismatch interfacial dislocations and so the films would be expected to have good potential for applications. Under high electron beam dose rate (above about 6000 e-/Å 2s) domains of an ordered structure appear and these are interpreted as being created by oxygen vacancy ordering. The ordered structure does not appear at lower losemore » rates (ca. 2600 e-/Å 2s) and can be removed by imaging under 1 mbar oxygen gas in an environmental TEM. EELS confirms that there is both oxygen deficiency and the associated increase in Ce 3+ versus Ce 4+ cations in the ordered domains. In situ high resolution TEM recordings show the formation of the ordered domains as well as atomic migration along the ceria thin film (001) surface.« less

Electron-Scavenging Chemistry of Benzoquinone on TiO2(110)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Henderson, Michael A.; Shen, Mingmin

The chemistry of benzoquinone (BQ) on TiO2(110) was examined using temperature programmed desorption (TPD), electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) and Auger electron spectroscopy (AES). BQ adsorbs mostly molecularly on the clean surface, although EELS demonstrates that electrons from surface Ti3+ sites at oxygen vacancy sites (VO) are readily oxidized by the high electron scavenging ability of the molecule. In contrast, when the surface is covered with water, subsequently adsorbed BQ molecules that scavenge surface electrons also abstract H from surface OHbr groups to form hydroquinone (HQ), which desorbs at ~450 K. This work was supported by the US Department ofmore » Energy, Office of Science, Office of Basic Energy Sciences, Division of Chemical Sciences, Geosciences & Biosciences. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a multiprogram national laboratory operated for DOE by Battelle. The research was performed using the Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory (EMSL), a national scientific user facility sponsored by the Department of Energy's Office of Biological and Environmental Research and located at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.« less

Complementary deoxyribonucleic acid cloning of spermatogonial stem cell renewal factor.

PubMed

Miura, Takeshi; Ohta, Takashi; Miura, Chiemi I; Yamauchi, Kohei

2003-12-01

Spermatogonial mitosis can be subdivided into two processes: spermatogonial stem cell renewal and spermatogonial proliferation toward meiosis. Recently it has been indicated that estrogen, estradiol-17beta, is involved in regulating the renewal of spermatogonial stem cells in eel. To determine the genes that directly regulate this process, we used expression screening to identify genes whose expression is regulated by estradiol-17beta in testes. We detected a previously unidentified cDNA clone that is up-regulated by estradiol-17beta stimulation and named it eel spermatogenesis-related substances 34 (eSRS34) cDNA. Homology searching showed that eSRS34 shares amino acid sequence similarity with human platelet-derived endothelial cell growth factor. We examined the function of eSRS34 using several in vitro systems. Recombinant eSRS34 produced by a baculovirus system induced spermatogonial mitosis in testicular organ culture. Furthermore, the addition of an antibody specific for eSRS34 prevented spermatogonial mitosis induced by estradiol-17beta stimulation in a germ cell/somatic cell coculture system. We therefore conclude that eSRS34 is a "spermatogonial stem cell renewal factor."

Quantitative Phase Fraction Detection in Organic Photovoltaic Materials through EELS Imaging

DOE PAGES

Dyck, Ondrej; Hu, Sheng; Das, Sanjib; ...

2015-11-24

Organic photovoltaic materials have recently seen intense interest from the research community. Improvements in device performance are occurring at an impressive rate; however, visualization of the active layer phase separation still remains a challenge. Our paper outlines the application of two electron energy-loss spectroscopic (EELS) imaging techniques that can complement and enhance current phase detection techniques. Specifically, the bulk plasmon peak position, often used to produce contrast between phases in energy filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM), is quantitatively mapped across a sample cross section. One complementary spectrum image capturing the carbon and sulfur core loss edges is compared with themore » plasmon peak map and found to agree quite well, indicating that carbon and sulfur density differences between the two phases also allows phase discrimination. Additionally, an analytical technique for determining absolute atomic areal density is used to produce an absolute carbon and sulfur areal density map. We also show how these maps may be re-interpreted as a phase ratio map, giving quantitative information about the purity of the phases within the junction.« less

Real-space localization and quantification of hole distribution in chain-ladder Sr3Ca11Cu24O41 superconductor

PubMed Central

Bugnet, Matthieu; Löffler, Stefan; Hawthorn, David; Dabkowska, Hanna A.; Luke, Graeme M.; Schattschneider, Peter; Sawatzky, George A.; Radtke, Guillaume; Botton, Gianluigi A.

2016-01-01

Understanding the physical properties of the chain-ladder Sr3Ca11Cu24O41 hole-doped superconductor has been precluded by the unknown hole distribution among chains and ladders. We use electron energy-loss spectrometry (EELS) in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) at atomic resolution to directly separate the contributions of chains and ladders and to unravel the hole distribution from the atomic scale variations of the O-K near-edge structures. The experimental data unambiguously demonstrate that most of the holes lie within the chain layers. A quantitative interpretation supported by inelastic scattering calculations shows that about two holes are located in the ladders, and about four holes in the chains, shedding light on the electronic structure of Sr3Ca11Cu24O41. Combined atomic resolution STEM-EELS and inelastic scattering calculations is demonstrated as a powerful approach toward a quantitative understanding of the electronic structure of cuprate superconductors, offering new possibilities for elucidating their physical properties. PMID:27051872

Atomic Resolution Study of the Interfacial Bonding at Si3N4/CeO2-δ Grain Boundaries

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Klie, Robert F.; Walkosz, Weronika; Ogut, Serdar; Borisevich, A.; Becher, Paul F.; Pennycook, Steve J.; Idrobo, Juan C.

2008-03-01

Using a combination of atomic resolution Z-contrast imaging and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) in the scanning transmission electron microscope, we examine the atomic and electronic structures at the interface between Si3N4 (10 10) and CeO2-δ inter-granular film (IGF). Ce atoms are observed to segregate to the interface in a two-layer periodic arrangement, which is significantly different compared to the structure observed in a previous study. Our EELS experiments show that (i) oxygen is present at the interface in direct contact with the terminating Si3N4 open-ring structures, (ii) the Ce valence state changes from +3 to +4 in going from the interface into the IGF, and (iii) while the N concentration decreases away from the Si3N4 grains into the IGF, the Si concentration remains uniform across the whole width of the IGF. Possible reasons for these observed structural and electronic variations at the interface and their implications for future studies on Si3N4/rare-earth oxide interfaces are briefly discussed.

Relationship between amino acid changes in mitochondrial ATP6 and life-history variation in anguillid eels.

PubMed

Jacobsen, Magnus W; Pujolar, José Martin; Hansen, Michael M

2015-03-01

Mitochondrial genes are part of the oxidative phosphorylation pathway and important for energy production. Although evidence for positive selection at the mitochondrial level exists, few studies have investigated the link between amino acid changes and phenotype. Here we test the hypothesis that differences in two life-history related traits, migratory distance between spawning and foraging areas and larval phase duration, are associated with divergent selection within the mitochondrial ATP6 gene in anguillid eels. We compare amino acid changes among 18 species with the sequence of the putative ancestral species, believed to have shown short migratory distance and larval phase duration. We find positive correlations between both life-history related traits and (i) the number of amino acid changes and (ii) the strength of the combined physico-chemical and structural changes at positions previously identified as candidates for positive selection. This supports a link between genotype and phenotype driven by positive selection at ATP6. © 2015 The Author(s) Published by the Royal Society. All rights reserved.

Cloning, in Vitro expression, and novel phylogenetic classification of a channel catfish estrogen receptor

USGS Publications Warehouse

Xia, Z.; Patino, R.; Gale, W.L.; Maule, A.G.; Densmore, L.D.

1999-01-01

We obtained two channel catfish estrogen receptor (ccER) cDNA from liver of female fish using RT–PCR. The two fragments were identical in sequence except that the smaller one had an out-of-frame deletion in the E domain, suggesting the existence of ccER splice variants. The larger fragment was used to screen a cDNA library from liver of a prepubescent female. A cDNA was obtained that encoded a 581-amino-acid ER with a deduced molecular weight of 63.8 kDa. Extracts of COS-7 cells transfected with ccER cDNA bound estrogen with high affinity (Kd = 4.7 nM) and specificity. Maximum parsimony and Neighbor Joining analyses were used to generate a phylogenetic classification of ccER on the basis of 18 full-length ER sequences. The tree suggested the existence of two major ER branches. One branch contained two clearly divergent clades which included all piscine ER (except Japanese eel ER) and all tetrapod ERα, respectively. The second major branch contained the eel ER and the mammalian ERβ. The high degree of divergence between the eel ER and mammalian ERβ suggested that they also represent distinct piscine and tetrapod ER. These data suggest that ERα and ERβ are present throughout vertebrates and that these two major ER types evolved by duplication of an ancestral ER gene. Sequence alignments with other members of the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily indicated the presence of 8 amino acids in the E domain that align exclusively among ER. Four of these amino acids have not received prior research attention and their function is unknown. The novel finding of putative ER splice variants in a nonmammalian vertebrate and the novel phylogenetic classification of ER offer new perspectives in understanding the diversification and function of ER.

STUDY BY AES AND EELS OF InP, InSb, InPO4 AND InxGa1-xAs SUBMITTED TO ELECTRON IRRADIATION

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghaffour, M.; Abdellaoui, A.; Bouslama, M.; Ouerdane, A.; Al-Douri, Y.

2012-02-01

The surface of materials plays an important role in their technological applications. In the interest to study the stability of materials and their behavior, we irradiate them by the electrons by using the electron spectroscopy such as the Auger electron spectroscopy (AES) and the electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). These methods have proved their good sensitivity to study material surfaces. In this paper, we give some results about the effect of the electron beam irradiating the compounds InP, InSb, InPO4 and InxGa1-xAs. The III-V semiconductors InP and InSb seem to be sensitive to the electron irradiation. This breaks the chemical bonds between the element III and V which leads to an oxidation process at the surface. The AES and EELS spectroscopy are also used to characterize the oxide InPO4 whose thickness is about 10 Å grown on the substrate InP(100). The irradiation of the system InPO4/InP(100) by the electron beam of 5 keV energy leads to a structural change of the surface, so that there is breaking of chemical bonds between indium and phosphorus (In-P) and formation of new oxide other than InPO4. In this study we show an important result concerning the effect of the electron beam on the compound InxGa1-xAs by varying the parameter x to obtain In0.2Ga0.8As and In0.53Ga0.47As. It appears that the electron beam affects In0.2Ga0.8As too much in comparison with In0.53Ga0.47As. In the case of the irradiation of In0.2Ga0.8As, there is breaking of chemical bonds between indium and GaAs leading to formation of indium oxide associated to GaAs.

Using a novel "Integrated Biomarker Proteomic" index to assess the effects of freshwater pollutants in European eel peripheral blood mononuclear cells.

PubMed

Roland, Kathleen; Kestemont, Patrick; Dieu, Marc; Raes, Martine; Silvestre, Frédéric

2016-03-30

Using proteomic data as biomarkers of environmental pollution has the potential to be of a great interest in ecological risk assessment as they constitute early warning indicators of ecologically relevant effects on biological systems. To develop such specific and sensitive biomarkers, the use of a set of proteins is required and the identification of protein expression signatures (PES) may reflect the exposure to specific classes of pollutants. Using 2D-DIGE (Differential in Gel Electrophoresis) methodology, this study aimed at identifying specific PES on European eel (Anguilla anguilla) peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) after 48 h in vitro exposure to two sublethal concentrations of dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (p,p'-DDT) (10 μg/L and 1mg/L) or cadmium (Cd) (1 μg/L and 100 μg/L). The present results have been supplemented with data of a first in vitro study on cells exposed to perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) (10 μg/L and 1mg/L). A total of thirty-four protein spots, belonging to 18 different identified proteins found in all conditions, have been selected as possible biomarkers to develop a synthetic Integrated Biomarker Proteomic (IBP) index. IBP follows a dose-response relationship with higher values at the highest tested concentration for each pollutant (Cd: 9.96; DDT: 7.44; PFOS: 7.94) compared to the lowest tested concentration (Cd: 3.81; DDT: 2.91; PFOS: 2.06). In a second step, star plot graphs have been applied to proteomic data in order to allow visual integration of a set of early warning responses measured with protein biomarkers. Such star plots permit to discriminate the type of pollutant inducing a proteomic response. We conclude that using IBP is relevant in environmental risk assessment, giving to this index the potential to be applied as a global index of proteome alteration in endangered species such as the European eel. In this study, 34 protein spots have been selected as possible biomarkers to develop a synthetic Integrated Biomarker Proteomic index (IBP). Results show that IBP follows a dose-response relationship with higher values at the highest tested concentration for each pollutant compared to the lowest tested concentration. Star plot graphs have also been applied to proteomic data in order to allow visual integration of a set of early warning responses measured with protein biomarkers. Such star plots permit to discriminate the type of pollutant inducing a proteomic response. IBP is relevant in environmental risk assessment, giving to this index the potential to be applied as a global index of proteome alteration in endangered species such as the European eel. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

U.S. EPA, Pesticide Product Label, SECURITY POWERTOX COTTON SPRAY, 12/16/1983

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

2011-04-14

... NI.'D" end only 'or tlloN u_ covered by II .• Certilled Aula lIor ... J,' !)~1 .·.Y"· e'.El" d"~1 ... a~ tt')r VI>;, nc.oj_st.ri\\tiC"I. ~~o. 7GY-J7C'1 cL ...

Stable isotope analyses reveal the importance of seagrass beds as feeding areas for juvenile Myrophic punctatus in Florida

EPA Science Inventory

The feeding habits and habitats of the speckled worm eel Myrophis punctatus were studied on the mangrove edge of the Indian River Lagoon (Florida) using stomach contents and stable isotope analyses of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N). Stomach dietary analyses identified four tax...

A Chemical and Structural Study of the A1N-Si Interface

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

George, T.; Beye, R.

1997-01-01

Samples of A1N grown on silicon [111] subtrates were examined using electron enery loss spectroscopy (EELS) and selected area diffraction (SAD) with high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to determine the source of out-of-place tilts and in-plane rotations of the A1N crystallites at the Si interface.

Characterization of Nb Superconducting Radio Frequency Cavities Based On In-Situ STEM And EELS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tao, Runzhe

Niobium, a 4d transition metal, has the highest superconducting transition temperature (Tc=9.2K) of any elemental superconductor as type II superconductor with coherent length, sigma approximately that of the penetration length, lambda. Pure niobium is grey in color and very soft, which makes this metal easily fabricable into different shapes for superconducting radio- frequency (SRF) cavities. Such cavities are used in some modern accelerators (SNS, CEBAF, XFEL), and are intended for usage in the next generation of particle accelerators, such as ILC. Since the crucial part of the cavities is top 100 nm of Nb near the inner cavity surface, considering the penetration depth is around 40 nm, it has attracted more and more attention in improving the surface process for optimizing the performance of the cavities. Nowadays, the main treatment of the Nb surface includes electro polishing (EP), buffered chemical polishing (BCP), high temperature baking (800 °C, 1000 °C and 1200 °C) and mild baking (120 °C). Firstly, the two half cells are welded together and the weld line is quite rough; there exists a lot of visible pits and defects on the inner shell of cavities. In this Ph.D. thesis, novel techniques in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM) that can be used to analyze the atomic scale structure-property relationship, both at room tem- perature and high/LN 2 temperature, are explored. Specifically, by using correlated Z-contrast imaging and electron energy loss spectrum (EELS), the structure, composition and bonding can be characterized directly on the atomic scale, also, light atoms, like H, O and C, are visible in ABF images. For the examining the defect behavior on the cavity surface, heating and cold stages are involved to simulate the baking treatment and low-temperature environments. These studies will serve as an important reference for qualifying different surface treatments to further improve SRF cavities' performance. The experimental results were obtained using JEOL JEM-ARM200CF STEM/TEM, having a cold-field emission gun and being operated at 200 kV. It is equipped with a probe-side Cs corrector, multiple imaging detectors (HAADF, LAADF, ABF, BF) and spectrometers (Gatan Infina EELS, Oxford Instruments XMAX EDS). This setup can achieve spatial resolution better than 70 pm and energy resolution 0.35 eV. Utilizing STEM imaging technologies, the crystal structure of Nb and even light impurities are visualized in HAADF and ABF images. Atomic- resolution EELS contains information about the local density of occupied states as the physical principle behind EELS relates to the interaction of the fast electrons with the sample to cause either collective excitations of electrons (plasmons), or discrete transitions between atomic energy levels. The study for different Nb oxides establishes a set of methodologies to quantify the Nb cavity surface oxidation state based on low-loss/core-loss EELS. Oxygen K-edge split due to orbital hybridation and Nb-M peak chemical shift work well for identifying the Nb valence in oxide. Using this method, the surface oxidation state of Nb is studied, and the effects of oxygen diffusion during the mild baking process is revealed. I suggest that this diffusion may act as an important reason for the observed Q-slope in high field region. Considering that the SRF cavities are operated inside liquid helium vessels, the behavior of surface impurity at low temperature draws more and more attention. Since NbH is conducting material with a transition temperature of 150 K and hydrogen can easily concentrate near the surface, NbH is regarded as the key for the observed Q-disease at low temperature. But the difficulty of studying Nb hydride in a TEM is obvious: the light atom (for hydrogen, Z=1) is almost impossible to visualize in STEM images; the only hydrogen peak in EELS is the H K-edge which is located at 12 eV and it is easily covered by tail of zero-loss peak or plasmon peaks. The second part of my research starts with a study of different NbH superlattices using electron beam diffraction patterns, and then careful low-loss EELS measurements to identify hydrogen concentration at the Nb cavity surface. All of these results provide strong evidence for the existence of hydrogen near the cavity surface, the diffusion of hydrogen into bulk Nb atLN2 temperature, and the relationship between hydrogen segregation and local defects. The last part of the thesis focuses on the surface deformation caused by local strain. Local strain is a common problem of Nb cavity fabrication. Nb carbon layers and particles form at the cavity surface after strain tests, and inside of such particles, smaller dislocations are found which exhibit high strain center and higher oxygen concentration. It is clear that the impurities of light atoms is unavoidable during the cavity manufacturing process, oxide is the dominant impurity and it forms a distinguishable amorphous layer around 5 nm in thickness, hydrides are present following the oxide layer and can diffusion into Nb matrix more than 20 nm. Undoubtedly, these impurities will reduce the cavities' performance, and it will be necessary to find more effective methods for post-production cavity treatments to obtain a smoother and cleaner surface. Another problem, local strain, will effect the surface structure and introduce grain boundaries and other extended defects. Potentially, these defects may interact with surface impurities, correspondingly, the hydrogen segregation increases the mobility of the defects. Such positive correlation will accelerate the degeneration of the surface structure and finally lead to catastrophic effect on the local superconductivity. In summary, various impurities of Nb are investigated with atomic resolution. Methodologies for quantifying Nb oxides and hydrides are developed. Direct observation of hydrogen atoms is realized in ABF images at room temperature, and can also serve as a promising method to identify different hydrides in Nb bulk at LN2 temperature if the cold stage is stable enough. My work on the local strain of Nb cavities points out that Nb carbides play a significant role in the performance of SRF cavities at low temperature and intermediate to high fields.

Habitat relationships and larval drift of native and nonindigenous fishes in neighboring tributaries of a coastal California river

Treesearch

Bret C. Harvey; Jason L. White; Rodney J. Nakamoto

2002-01-01

Abstract - Motivated by a particular interest in the distribution of the nonindigenous, piscivorous Sacramento pikeminnow, Ptychocheilus grandis, we examined fish-habitat relationships in small tributaries (draining 20-200 km 2 )in the Eel River drainage of northwestern California.We sampled juvenile and adult fish in 15 tributaries in both the summer and...

Accounting Early for Life Long Learning: The AcE Project.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

University Coll. Worcester (England). Centre for Research in Early Childhood Education.

Building upon the work of the Effective Early Learning (EEL) Project in raising the quality of early learning for young children in the United Kingdom, the 3-year Accounting Early for Life Long Learning Project (AcE Project) focuses on enhancing in 3- to 6-year-olds those attitudes and dispositions that are important to life-long learning. This…

Bibliography on Cold Regions Science and Technology, Volume 45, Part 1

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-12-01

Island. High pressure ice, Amorphous ice, Molecular struc- tVelikaia prilednikovala sistema stoka Severnol Ev- over the past three years. The work has...Maad land shelf III detrmine the eel5 uty andu stra in 1Ii the eI t he netl t I \\ A -In iinosmasuet n ihei toC . I SN- it-i H ului-cho - nasurenrenis

77 FR 64496 - Freedom Falls, LLC; Notice of Application Ready for Environmental Analysis and Soliciting...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-22

... eel passage facility and working platform; (5) a new 60-foot-long, 30-inch-diameter steel penstock leading to; (6) an existing 20-foot-wide, by 30-foot- long generating room containing a new 38.3 kilowatt...-long, 12-foot-high concrete-capped stone masonry dam with a 25-foot-long, 10-foot-high spillway with...

Stable isotope analyses reveal the importance of seagrass beds as feeding areas for juvenile Myrophis punctatus (Angulliformes: Ophichthidae) inthe coastal waters of Florida

EPA Science Inventory

The feeding habits and habitats of the speckled worm eel Myrophis punctatus were studied on the mangrove edge of the Indian River Lagoon (Florida) using stomach contents and stable isotope analyses of carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N). Stomach dietary analyses identified four tax...

An emergent multiple predator effect may enhance biotic resistance in a stream fish assemblage

Treesearch

Bret C. Harvey; Jason L. White; Rodney J. Nakamoto

2004-01-01

While two cyprinid fishes introduced from nearby drainages have become widespread and abundant in the Eel River of northwestern California, a third nonindigenous cyprinid has remained largely confined to <25 km of one major tributary (the Van Duzen River) for at least 15 years. The downstream limit of this species, speckled dace, does not appear to correspond...

Isolation and characterization of active LINE and SINEs from the eel.

PubMed

Kajikawa, Masaki; Ichiyanagi, Kenji; Tanaka, Nozomu; Okada, Norihiro

2005-03-01

Long interspersed elements (LINEs) and short interspersed elements (SINEs) are retrotransposons. These elements can mobilize by the "copy-and-paste" mechanism, in which their own RNA is reverse-transcribed into complementary DNA (cDNA). LINEs and SINEs not only are components of eukaryotic genomes but also drivers of genomic evolution. Thus, studies of the amplification mechanism of LINEs and SINEs are important for understanding eukaryotic genome evolution. Here we report the characterization of one LINE family (UnaL2) and two SINE families (UnaSINE1 and UnaSINE2) from the eel (Anguilla japonica) genome. UnaL2 is approximately 3.6 kilobases (kb) and encodes only one open reading frame (ORF). UnaL2 belongs to the stringent type--thought to be a major group of LINEs--and can mobilize in HeLa cells. We also show that UnaL2 and the two UnaSINEs have similar 3' tails, and that both UnaSINE1 and UnaSINE2 can be mobilized by UnaL2 in HeLa cells. These elements are thus useful for delineating the amplification mechanism of stringent type LINEs as well as that of SINEs.

Co-infection with Pseudomonas anguilliseptica and Delftia acidovorans in the European eel, Anguilla anguilla (L.): a case history of an illegally trafficked protected species.

PubMed

Andree, K B; Rodgers, C J; Furones, D; Gisbert, E

2013-07-01

Inspections by customs agents at Barcelona airport discovered 420 kg of contraband glass eels prepared for shipment to Hong Kong. After confiscation of these animals by police, they were transported to holding facilities to be maintained until after a judicial hearing. Upon arrival, they were separated into two groups and held under ambient flow-through conditions in fresh water. During their captivity period, several peaks in mortality occurred and multiple bacterial strains were isolated from moribund animals. Sequencing of 16S rDNA was used to determine specific identity of the isolates. An initial isolation of Pseudomonas anguilliseptica was treated with oxytetracycline. A subsequent isolation of Delftia acidovorans proved resistant to oxytetracycline and was treated with gentamicin in combination with sulphadiazine-trimethoprim. Once the health condition of the animals was stabilized, they were partitioned into groups and subsequently released as part of a restocking effort for the species following the guidelines of Regulation (EC) 1100/2007 (Anon 2007). This represents the first record for both bacterial species in the host Anguilla anguilla in the Spanish Mediterranean. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

The community structure of over-wintering larval and small juvenile fish in a large estuary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Munk, Peter; Cardinale, Massimiliano; Casini, Michele; Rudolphi, Ann-Christin

2014-02-01

The Skagerrak and Kattegat are estuarine straits of high hydrographical and ecological diversity, situated between the saline waters of the North Sea and the brackish waters of the Baltic Sea. These sustain important nursery grounds of many fish species, of which several overwinter during the larval and early juvenile stages. In order to give more insight into the communities of the overwintering ichthyoplankton in estuarine areas, we examine an annual series of observations from a standard survey carried out 1992-2010. Species differences and annual variability in distributions and abundances are described, and linkages between ichthyoplankton abundances and corresponding hydrographical information are analysed by GAM methods. Communities were dominated by herring, gobies, butterfish, sprat, pipefishes, lemon sole and European eel (i.e. glass eel), and all the sampled species showed large annual fluctuations in abundances. The species showed quite specific patterns of distribution although species assemblages with common distributional characteristics were identified. Within these assemblages, the ichthyoplankton abundances showed linkage to environmental characteristics described by bottom-depth and surface temperature and salinity. Hence the study points to a significant structuring of overwintering ichthyoplankton communities in large estuaries, based on the species habitat choice and its response to physical gradients.

Sushi barcoding in the UK: another kettle of fish

PubMed Central

Taylor, Sasha-Ann; Di Muri, Cristina; Hankard, Elizabeth A.; Towne, Jessica A.; Watson, Mhairi

2016-01-01

Although the spread of sushi restaurants in the European Union and United States is a relatively new phenomenon, they have rapidly become among the most popular food services globally. Recent studies indicate that they can be associated with very high levels (>70%) of fish species substitution. Based on indications that the European seafood retail sector may currently be under better control than its North American counterpart, here we investigated levels of seafood labelling accuracy in sushi bars and restaurants across England. We used the COI barcoding gene to screen samples of tuna, eel, and a variety of other products characterised by less visually distinctive ‘white flesh’. Moderate levels of substitution were found (10%), significantly lower than observed in North America, which lends support to the argument that public awareness, policy and governance of seafood labels is more effective in the European Union. Nevertheless, the results highlight that current labelling practice in UK restaurants lags behind the level of detail implemented in the retail sector, which hinders consumer choice, with potentially damaging economic, health and environmental consequences. Specifically, critically endangered species of tuna and eel continue to be sold without adequate information to consumers. PMID:27069819

Accessing the reproducibility and specificity of pepsin and other aspartic proteases.

PubMed

Ahn, Joomi; Cao, Min-Jie; Yu, Ying Qing; Engen, John R

2013-06-01

The aspartic protease pepsin is less specific than other endoproteinases. Because aspartic proteases like pepsin are active at low pH, they are utilized in hydrogen deuterium exchange mass spectrometry (HDX MS) experiments for digestion under hydrogen exchange quench conditions. We investigated the reproducibility, both qualitatively and quantitatively, of online and offline pepsin digestion to understand the compliment of reproducible pepsin fragments that can be expected during a typical pepsin digestion. The collection of reproducible peptides was identified from >30 replicate digestions of the same protein and it was found that the number of reproducible peptides produced during pepsin digestion becomes constant above 5-6 replicate digestions. We also investigated a new aspartic protease from the stomach of the rice field eel (Monopterus albus Zuiew) and compared digestion efficiency and specificity to porcine pepsin and aspergillopepsin. Unique cleavage specificity was found for rice field eel pepsin at arginine, asparagine, and glycine. Different peptides produced by the various proteases can enhance protein sequence coverage and improve the spatial resolution of HDX MS data. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Mass spectrometry in structural biology. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Quantitative Study of Interface/Interphase in Epoxy/Graphene-Based Nanocomposites by Combining STEM and EELS.

PubMed

Liu, Yu; Hamon, Ann-Lenaig; Haghi-Ashtiani, Paul; Reiss, Thomas; Fan, Benhui; He, Delong; Bai, Jinbo

2016-12-14

A quantitative study of the interphase and interface of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs)/epoxy and graphene oxide (GO)/epoxy was carried out by combining scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS). The interphase regions between GNPs and epoxy matrix were clearly identified by the discrepancy of the plasmon peak positions in the low energy-loss spectra due to different valence electron densities. The spectrum acquisitions were carried out along lines across the interface. An interphase thickness of 13 and 12.5 nm was measured for GNPs/epoxy and GO/epoxy, respectively. The density of the GNPs/epoxy interphase was 2.89% higher than that of the epoxy matrix. However, the density of the GO/epoxy interphase was 1.37% lower than that of the epoxy matrix. The interphase layer thickness measured in this work is in good agreement with the transition layer theory, which proposed an area with modulus linearly varying across a finite width. The results provide an insight into the interphase for carbon-based polymer composites that can help to design the functionalization of nanofillers to improve the composite properties.

Structure of the Nav1.4-β1 Complex from Electric Eel.

PubMed

Yan, Zhen; Zhou, Qiang; Wang, Lin; Wu, Jianping; Zhao, Yanyu; Huang, Gaoxingyu; Peng, Wei; Shen, Huaizong; Lei, Jianlin; Yan, Nieng

2017-07-27

Voltage-gated sodium (Na v ) channels initiate and propagate action potentials. Here, we present the cryo-EM structure of EeNa v 1.4, the Na v channel from electric eel, in complex with the β1 subunit at 4.0 Å resolution. The immunoglobulin domain of β1 docks onto the extracellular L5 I and L6 IV loops of EeNa v 1.4 via extensive polar interactions, and the single transmembrane helix interacts with the third voltage-sensing domain (VSD III ). The VSDs exhibit "up" conformations, while the intracellular gate of the pore domain is kept open by a digitonin-like molecule. Structural comparison with closed Na v PaS shows that the outward transfer of gating charges is coupled to the iris-like pore domain dilation through intricate force transmissions involving multiple channel segments. The IFM fast inactivation motif on the III-IV linker is plugged into the corner enclosed by the outer S4-S5 and inner S6 segments in repeats III and IV, suggesting a potential allosteric blocking mechanism for fast inactivation. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tunable optical and excitonic properties of phosphorene via oxidation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sadki, S.; Drissi, L. B.

2018-06-01

The optical properties and excitonic wave function of phosphorene oxides (PO) are studied using the first principle many-body Green function and the Bethe–Salpeter equation formalism. In this work, the optical properties are determined using ab initio calculations of the dielectric function. At the long wavelength limit q of EM wave (i.e. ), the dielectric function, the absorption spectrum, the lectivity, the electron energy loss spectra (EELS) and the wave function are calculated. The results show an excitonic binding energy of 818 meV with a bright exciton located in the armchair direction in pristine phosphorene. For PO, the arrangement of the oxygen atoms significantly influences the optical properties. In particular, the absorption spectrum is extended along the solar spectrum, with a high absorption coefficient observed in the dangling structures. The maximum lectivity values are observed for the high energies of the light spectrum. Moreover, the first EELS peak is located in the visible region in all the structures except for one configuration that exhibits the same behavior as pure phosphorene. Finally, the exciton effect reveals that all PO conformers have a dark exciton state, which is suitable for long-lived applications.

Decomposition of L a2 -xS rxCu O4 into several L a2O3 phases at elevated temperatures in ultrahigh vacuum inside a transmission electron microscope

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jeong, Jong Seok; Wu, Wangzhou; Topsakal, Mehmet; Yu, Guichuan; Sasagawa, Takao; Greven, Martin; Mkhoyan, K. Andre

2018-05-01

We report the decomposition of L a2 -xS rxCu O4 into L a2O3 and Cu nanoparticles in ultrahigh vacuum, observed by in situ heating experiments in a transmission electron microscope. The analysis of electron diffraction data reveals that the phase decomposition process starts at about 150 °C and is considerably expedited in the temperature range of 350 °C-450 °C. Two major resultant solid phases are identified as metallic Cu and L a2O3 by electron diffraction, simulation, and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) analyses. With the aid of calculations, L a2O3 phases are further identified to be derivatives of a fluorite structure—fluorite, pyrochlore, and (distorted) bixbyite—characterized by different oxygen-vacancy order. Additionally, the bulk plasmon energy and the fine structures of the O K and La M4 ,5 EELS edges are reported for these structures, along with simulated O K x-ray absorption near-edge structure. The resultant Cu nanoparticles and L a2O3 phases remain unchanged after cooling to room temperature.

Structural characterization of oxidized titanium surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jobin, M.; Taborelli, M.; Descouts, P.

1995-05-01

Oxidized titanium surfaces resulting from various processes have been structurally characterized by means of scanning force microscopy, x-ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS), x-ray diffraction, and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) with losses in the 0-100 eV range. It has been found that the surface morphology has a granular structure for electropolished titanium and for titanium evaporated on mica at low substrate temperature (570 K), but changes to flat terraces for the films evaporated at higher temperature (770 K). Angular-dependent XPS has revealed the presence of a Ti2O3 suboxide at the Ti/TiO2 interface for electropolished titanium. Dry oxidation has been performed at 770 and 970 K on both weakly and highly crystallized evaporated titanium films oriented along (0001). In the case of underlying crystallized metallic titanium, the resulting TiO2 films are crystallized with the anatase (004) orientation for oxidation at 770 K and with rutile (200) orientation for oxidation at 970 K. EELS spectra interpreted in terms of the molecular orbitals of a (TiO6)8- cluster show that the local octahedral environment of titanium atoms is preserved on native oxides, even if these oxides are not crystallized.

Unearthing the Fossorial Tadpoles of the Indian Dancing Frog Family Micrixalidae.

PubMed

Senevirathne, Gayani; Garg, Sonali; Kerney, Ryan; Meegaskumbura, Madhava; Biju, S D

2016-01-01

Tadpoles of the monotypic Indian dancing frog family Micrixalidae have remained obscure for over 125 years. Here we report the discovery of the elusive tadpoles of Micrixalus herrei from the sand beds of a forested stream in southern Western Ghats, and confirm their identity through DNA barcoding. These actively burrowing tadpoles lead an entirely fossorial life from eggs to late metamorphic stages. We describe their internal and external morphological characters while highlighting the following features: eel-like appearance, extensively muscularized body and tail, reduced tail fins, skin-covered eyes, delayed development of eye pigmentation in early pre-metamorphic stages (Gosner stages 25-29), prominent tubular sinistral spiracle, large transverse processes on vertebrae II and III, ankylosed ribs on transverse processes of vertebra II, notochord terminating before the atlantal cotyle-occipital condyle junction, absence of keratodonts, serrated well-formed jaw sheaths, and extensive calcified endolymphatic sacs reaching sacrum posteriorly. The tadpole gut contains mostly fine sediments and sand. We discuss the eel-like morphology and feeding habits of M. herrei in the context of convergence with other well-known fossorial tadpoles. This discovery builds the knowledge base for further comparative analyses and conservation of Micrixalus, an ancient and endemic lineage of Indian frogs.

Accidental discharge of brodifacoum baits into a freshwater lake: a case study.

PubMed

Fisher, P; Funnell, E; Fairweather, A; Brown, L; Campion, M

2012-02-01

Approximately 700 kg of cereal bait containing 20 ppm of the anticoagulant rodenticide brodifacoum was spilled into a southern New Zealand lake in 2010 from a helicopter being used to transport containers of brodifacoum bait for an aerial baiting operation. In the month after the spill no residual brodifacoum was detected in samples of lake water, sediment, benthic invertebrates, eels, and two birds.

Gordiichthys combibus, a new species of eastern Pacific sand-eel (Anguilliformes: Ophichthidae).

PubMed

McCosker, J E; Lavenberg, R J

2001-07-01

A new species of bascanichthyin ophichthid, Gordiichthys combibus, is described from shallow water along the Pacific coast of Colombia. It is the first known eastern Pacific species of Gordiichthys and is very similar to G. randalli from Puerto Rico. It differs from its other western Atlantic congeners in vertebral number and other characters. A key to the genus is provided.

Electrochemistry of Metal Surfaces

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-06-30

i) 3-pyridine carboxylic acid ( nicotinic acid, NA) binds to Pt surfaces through both the nitrogen atom and an oxygen atom of the carboxylate group...formed from aqueous electrolytes at Pt(1l1) electrode surfaces have been compared with the IR and Raman spectra of the unadsorbed compounds in order...vibrational absorptivities between EELS spectra of adsorbed species and IR and Raman spectra of the corresponding unadsorbed compounds (146). Of

Corrosion Fatigue of Anodized Aluminum 7075-T73 in Salt Ladened Humid Air.

DTIC Science & Technology

1981-01-01

relative humidity and coating thickness on the fatigue of anodized 2024-T351 aluminum in reversed torsion . They also found no effect of coating ... fatigue resistance. Most of the previous corrosion fatigue work has been on the effect of relative humidity on the fatigue life of coated aluminum ...alloys. Eeles and 1hurston Iwere some of the early investigators

ARC-2007-ACD07-0073-046

NASA Image and Video Library

2007-04-14

Lunar CRater Observation and Sensing Satellite (LCROSS) and P.I. at NASA Ames Research Center - Total Luminance Photometer shake test in N-244 (EEL) : Metal shake table close up. Shows two units bolted on. The left one is the lens, sensor electronics and photometer sensor. The right is the digital electronics unit for the instrument. The two units, along with their cabling is one of the LCROSS science insruments.

Snakes and Eels and Dogs! Oh, My! Evaluating High School Students' Tree-Thinking Skills: An Entry Point to Understanding Evolution

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Catley, Kefyn M.; Phillips, Brenda C.; Novick, Laura R.

2013-01-01

The biological community is currently undertaking one its greatest scientific endeavours, that of constructing the Tree of Life, a phylogeny intended to be an evidenced-based, predictive road map of evolutionary relationships among Earth's biota. Unfortunately, we know very little about how such diagrams are understood, interpreted, or used…

Long-term streamflow trends on California’s north coast

Treesearch

J. Eli Asarian; Jeffrey D. Walker

2017-01-01

Using streamflow data from the U.S. Geological Survey, we assessed long-term (1953-2012) trends in streamflow on California’s North Coast including many sites in the redwood region. The study area spans from the Smith River to the Mattole River and includes the Eel and Klamath-Trinity basins. Antecedent Precipitation Index (API) is a time-weighted summary of...

Development of a Mechanistically Based, Basin-Scale Stream Temperature Model: Applications to Cumulative Effects Modeling

Treesearch

Douglas Allen; William Dietrich; Peter Baker; Frank Ligon; Bruce Orr

2007-01-01

We describe a mechanistically-based stream model, BasinTemp, which assumes that direct shortwave radiation moderated by riparian and topographic shading, controls stream temperatures during the hottest part of the year. The model was developed to support a temperature TMDL for the South Fork Eel basin in Northern California and couples a GIS and a 1-D energy balance...

A Hot Knife Through Ice-Cream: Earthflow Response to Channel Incision (Or Channel Response to Earthflows?), Eel River Canyon, California

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mackey, B. H.; Roering, J. J.; McKean, J. A.

2007-12-01

Abundant glacier-like earthflow features are recognized as a primary erosional process in the highly erodable Franciscan Melange of the Eel River Basin, CA. Despite their prominence in this "melting ice-cream" topography, many questions regarding their effects on the long term sediment flux from this rapidly eroding basin remain unresolved. For example, does an earthflow's basal shear zone propagate vertically downwards with vertical river incision? What controls the upslope and lateral extent of individual earthflows? How does the erosive power of a river influence the rate of earthflow movement, or conversely do earthflow toe deposits regulate the rate of river incision? Here we present preliminary findings derived from study of 200km2 of lidar data (1m resolution) covering hillslopes adjacent to 30km of the Eel River. Lidar allows detailed analysis of the interaction between earthflows and the drainage network, and we document how inferred changes in local base level are propagated throughout adjacent hillslopes via earthflow movement. The most active earthflows (determined by field surveying and analysis of aerial photos rectified using lidar- generated digital topography) coincide with locally steep sections of channel, while downstream of the most active flows we frequently observe less-active or dormant earthflows. This observation supports the idea that the locations of the most active earthflows coincide with headward propagating knickpoints in the channel. The rate of earthflow movement appears to slow when an earthflow exhausts the upslope area of easily mobilized sediment. Earthflow toes can protrude directly into the channel, causing the channel to narrow and steepen, and even undercut the opposite bank. Large resistant boulders (>2m diameter) transported by the earthflow accumulate in the streambed and appear to both act as a check on further channel incision and earthflow movement. In contrast, areas adjacent to active earthflows exhibit smooth hillslopes, which show little or no evidence for recent instability. Such unfailed hillslopes preferentially occur near ridges or adjacent to strath terraces, and appear to be largely isolated from the effects of channel incision.

On diamond, graphitic and amorphous carbons in primitive extraterrestrial solar system materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rietmeijer, Frans J. M.

1990-01-01

Carbon is among the most abundant elements in the universe and carbon chemistry in meteorites and comets is an important key to understanding many Solar System and interstellar processes. Yet, the mineralogical properties and interrelations between various structural forms of elemental carbon remain ambiguous. Crystalline elemental carbons include rhombohedral graphite, hexagonal graphite, cubic diamond, hexagonal diamond (i.e., lonsdaleite or carbon-2H) and chaoite. Elemental carbon also occurs as amorphous carbon and poorly graphitized (or turbostratic) carbon but of all the forms of elemental carbon only graphite is stable under physical conditions that prevail in small Solar System bodies and in the interstellar medium. The recent discovery of cubic diamond in carbonaceous chondrites and hexagonal diamond in chondritic interplanetary dust particles (IDPs) have created a renewed interest in the crystalline elemental carbons that were not formed by shock processes on a parent body. Another technique, Raman spectroscopy, confirms a widespread occurrence of disordered graphite in the Allende carbonaceous chondrite and in chondritic IDPs. Elemental carbons have also been identified by their characteristic K-edge features in electron energy loss spectra (EELS). However, the spectroscopic data do not necessarily coincide with those obtained by selected area electron diffraction (SAED). In order to interpret these data in terms of rational crystalline structures, it may be useful to consider the principles underlying electron diffraction and spectroscopic analyses. Electron diffraction depends on electron scattering, on the type of atom and the distance between atoms in a crystal lattice. Spectroscopic data are a function of the type of atom and the energy of bonds between atoms. Also, SAED is a bulk sampling technique when compared to techniques such as Raman spectroscopy or EELS. Thus, it appears that combined analyses provide contradictory results and that amorphous, or short-range ordered, carbon identified by conventional TEM imaging and SAED may show evidence for sp(3) bonds in EELS spectra. It is suggested that complex, nanometer-scale, mineralogical interrelations are common to all elemental carbons irrespective of their origin. The subsequent thermal history, or energy balance, will determine the ultimate microstructure.

The Use of Water Exchange for Feeding Rate and Growth Promotion of Shortfin Eel Anguilla bicolor bicolor In Recirculating Water System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Taufiq-Spj, N.; Sunaryo, S.; Wirasatriya, A.; Sugianto, D. N.

2017-02-01

The shortage of eel’s seed Anguilla spp. and it’s consumption size will induce the hunting of this species. Thus, stocks are critically endangered. Central Java have two indigenious species i.e. A. marmorata and A. bicolor bicolor. These two species will be endanger if management of stock do not conduct properly. The use of water exchange by replacing water volume for feeding rate and growth promotion of Indonesian shortfin eel A. bicolor bicolor in RWS will at least give a basic information in appropriate aquaculture systems and as a part of disaster mitigation of indegenious species extinction. The study used 3 replications and 3 treatments of water exchange, i.e. T1: 50, T2: 100, and T3: 200 % of water removed d-1. The fish were fed with approx. 2.2% dry basis of formulated feed. Tanks with volume of 1 m3 contain a density of approx. 20 kg seed stock of shortfin eel fingerlink size per m3 water in RSW. The result shows that feeding rate among treatments are significantly different (α < 0.001), where T1= 1.62±0.23% d-1, T2 = 1.89±0.06% d-1 and T3 = 1.99±0.06% d-1. Individual and Biomass weight gain increase (IWG: T1= 0.039±0.003, T2= 0.050±0.001, T3= 0.076±0.002 kg and BWG: T1= 7.087±0.443, T2 = 11.051±0.894, T3= 19.722±0.831 kg respectively) by increasing water exchange (α < 0.001). Meanwhile the absolute growth was found higher in individual (IAG) compare to biomass (BAG) and both of them increase by increasing water exchange (α < 0.001). Where for IAG: T1= 55.42±3.69, T2= 71.02±2.40, T3= 106.12±1.98% and BAG: T1= 35.11±1.13, T2= 52.94±6.17, T3= 90.77±3.14% respectively.

Molecular cloning of Japanese eel Anguilla japonica TNF-α and characterization of its expression in response to LPS, poly I:C and Aeromonas hydrophila infection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Feng, Jianjun; Guan, Ruizhang; Guo, Songlin; Lin, Peng; Zadlock, Frank

2014-09-01

As a potent pleiotropic cytokine, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) plays an important role in innate immune responses. The cDNA sequence and genomic structure of the TNF-α gene ( Aj TNF-α) in the Japanese eel ( Anguilla japonica) were identified and characterized. The full-length AjTNF-α cDNA was 1 546 bp, including a 5'-untranslated region (UTR) of 13 bp, a 3'-UTR of 879 bp and an open reading frame of 654 bp encoding a protein of 218 amino acids. The full-length genomic sequence of AjTNF-α was 2 392 bp and included four exons and three introns. The putative AjTNF-α protein contained TNF family signature motifs, including a protease cleavage site, a transmembrane domain and two conserved cysteine residues. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR analysis revealed AjTNF-α expression in a wide range of tissues, with predominant expression in blood and liver. Lower levels of expression were seen in spleen, gills, kidney, intestine, heart, and skin, with very low levels in muscle. The modulation of AjTNF-α expression after injection of eels with lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the viral mimic, poly I:C, or Aeromonas hydrophila was assessed in blood, liver, and kidney. In blood, TNF-α mRNA levels increased rapidly and then rapidly decreased after stimulation with LPS, poly I:C or A. hydrophila. However, the response to LPS and A. hydrophila peaked at 6 h while for poly I:C the peak was at 12 h. In liver, after injection with A. hydrophila, an up- and down-regulation of AjTNF-α expression occurred twice, peaking at 6 h and 24 h, respectively. No remarkable increase of AjTNF-α expression appeared in liver until 72 h after LPS or poly I:C treatment. In kidney, AjTNF-α expression increased significantly only at 72 h post-stimulation with LPS or A. hydrophila. Our results suggest that AjTNF-α plays an important role in fish in the defense against viral and bacterial infection.

Toxin profiles of five geographical isolates of Dinophysis spp. from North and South America.

PubMed

Fux, Elie; Smith, Juliette L; Tong, Mengmeng; Guzmán, Leonardo; Anderson, Donald M

2011-02-01

Marine dinoflagellates of the genus Dinophysis can produce toxins of the okadaic acid (OA) and pectenotoxin (PTX) groups. These lipophilic toxins accumulate in filter-feeding shellfish and cause an illness in consumers called diarrhetic shellfish poisoning (DSP). In 2008, a bloom of Dinophysis led to the closure of shellfish harvesting areas along the Texas coast, one of the first DSP-related closures in the U.S. This event resulted in a broad study of toxin production in isolates of Dinophysis spp. from U.S. waters. In the present study, we compared toxin profiles in geographical isolates of Dinophysis collected in the U.S. (Eel Pond, Woods Hole MA; Martha's Vineyard, MA; and Port Aransas Bay, Texas), and in those from Canada (Blacks Harbour, Bay of Fundy) and Chile (Reloncavi Estuary), when cultured in the laboratory under the same conditions. For each isolate, the mitochondrial cox1 gene was sequenced to assist in species identification. Strains from the northeastern U.S. and Canada were all assigned to Dinophysis acuminata, while those from Chile and Texas were most likely within the D. acuminata complex whereas precise species designation could not be made with this marker. Toxins were detected in all Dinophysis isolates and each isolate had a different profile. Toxin profiles of isolates from Eel Pond, Martha's Vineyard, and Bay of Fundy were most similar, in that they all contained OA, DTX1, and PTX2. The Eel Pond isolate also contained OA-D8 and DTX1-D7, and low levels (unconfirmed structurally) of DTX1-D8 and DTX1-D9. D. acuminata from Martha's Vineyard produced DTX1-D7, along with OA, DTX1, and PTX2, as identified in both the cells and the culture medium. D. acuminata from the Bay of Fundy produced DTX1 and PTX2, as found in both cells and culture medium, while only trace amounts of OA were detected in the medium. The Dinophysis strain from Texas only produced OA, and the one from Chile only PTX2, as confirmed in both cells and culture medium. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Macrobiotic Communities of Vailulu'u Seamount, Samoan Archipelago

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Young, C. M.; Lee, R. W.; Pile, A. J.; Hudson, I. R.; Brooke, S. D.; Ted, P.; Staudigel, H.; Hart, S.; Bailey, B. E.; Haucke, L.; Koppers, A.; Konter, J.; Templeton, A.; Tebo, B.

2005-12-01

Vailulu'u, the active seamount on the hotspot at the Eastern end of the Samoan volcanic chain, was the focus of two research cruises in April and June 2005 using the Pisces V submersible. Warm-water vents on the summit of a newly formed volcanic cone in the crater supported a low-diversity community dominated by thick microbial mats and the synaphobranchid eel Dysommina rugosa. Isotope and gut analyses indicated that the eels feed not on the mats but on planktonic crustaceans imported to the system from the overlying water column. The microbial mat exhibited isotopic signatures consistent with local chemosynthesis, but not methane-based chemosynthesis; A<

Probing Subsurface and Stream Particle Composition Through Optical Analysis at the Eel River Critical Zone Observatory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nghiem, A.; Thurnhoffer, B. M.; Bishop, J. K. B.; Kim, H.

2014-12-01

Particles constitute a significant portion of the flux weathered material from continents to ocean basins but little is understood about their seasonal dynamics particularly in subsurface and headwater stream environments. At the Eel River Critical Zone Observatory, located near the headwaters of the South Fork Eel River in the Angelo Coast Range Reserve (Northern California), groundwater from weathered bedrock and stream waters are sampled at a frequency of one to three days from three wells (Well 1 down-slope, Well 3 mid-slope, Well 10 upper-slope) and Elder Creek. Approximately one thousand samples collected by automated ISCO Gravity Filtration System (GFS; Kim et al. 2012, EST) since 2011 have been filtered through 0.45 μm 25 mm diameter Supor filters. Filters imaged under controlled lighting are analyzed for red, green, and blue optical density (OD) to enable rapid assessment of sample loading and color as a prelude to and selection aid for more labor-intensive ICP-MS and Scanning Electron Microscopic analysis. For example, samples with lower red OD relative to green and blue may correspond to samples high in Mn/Fe oxides. Optical imaging of the loaded filters provides a time-series over three years and color anomalies in these filters along with chemical analysis of dissolved and particulate filtrate is used to establish a method for calibrating optical data to interpret chemical composition of water and particles. Results are interpreted within a framework of environmental data such as rainfall, stream discharge and turbidity, and water table depth measured at the heavily monitored forested hillslope. Data from the four locations range up to 0.6 OD units with a typical detection limit of better than 0.01 OD units. At Well 10, wet season filter samples exhibit highest particle loading (OD ~ 0.3) with values rapidly decreasing during the dry season (OD < D.L.) water table recession. At Well 1, particle loads instantaneously reflect intense rain events. Applied at a larger scale, this method - if proven - may be used to estimate basin level particulate flux with an estimation of chemical composition in a highly efficient manner.

Tectonic signatures on active margins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hogarth, Leah Jolynn

High-resolution Compressed High-Intensity Radar Pulse (CHIRP) surveys offshore of La Jolla in southern California and the Eel River in northern California provide the opportunity to investigate the role of tectonics in the formation of stratigraphic architecture and margin morphology. Both study sites are characterized by shore-parallel tectonic deformation, which is largely observed in the structure of the prominent angular unconformity interpreted as the transgressive surface. Based on stratal geometry and acoustic character, we identify three sedimentary sequences offshore of La Jolla: an acoustically laminated estuarine unit deposited during early transgression, an infilling or "healing-phase" unit formed during the transgression, and an upper transparent unit. The estuarine unit is confined to the canyon edges in what may have been embayments during the last sea-level rise. The healing-phase unit appears to infill rough areas on the transgressive surface that may be related to relict fault structures. The upper transparent unit is largely controlled by long-wavelength tectonic deformation due to the Rose Canyon Fault. This unit is also characterized by a mid-shelf (˜40 m water depth) thickness high, which is likely a result of hydrodynamic forces and sediment grain size. On the Eel margin, we observe three distinct facies: a seaward-thinning unit truncated by the transgressive surface, a healing-phase unit confined to the edges of a broad structural high, and a highly laminated upper unit. The seaward-thinning wedge of sediment below the transgressive surface is marked by a number of channels that we interpret as distributary channels based on their morphology. Regional divergence of the sequence boundary and transgressive surface with up to ˜8 m of sediment preserved across the interfluves suggests the formation of subaerial accommodation during the lowstand. The healing-phase, much like that in southern California, appears to infill rough areas in the transgressive surface. Reflectors within the laminated upper unit exhibit divergence towards the Eel River Syncline, which suggests that deposition in the syncline is syntectonic. The transgressive surface is offset across the Eureka Anticline indicating deformation has occurred since ˜10 ka. The relief observed along the transgressive surface is consistent with deformation rates measured onshore.

[Accumulation of cyclic adenosine monophosphate in the ovary of the eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) in vitro under the effect of carp gonadotropin or ovine lutropin: kinetics and thermodependence].

PubMed

Salmon, C; Marchelidon, J; Fontaine-Bertrand, E; Fontaine, Y A

1986-01-01

Cyclic AMP (cAMP) in pieces of eel ovary was greatly increased in vitro by the gonadotropin (cGTH) of carp, another teleost fish; after one hour at 20 degrees C, maximal stimulation = 31.7 and E.D. 50 = 0.08 micrograms/ml. Ovine lutropin (oLH) had less effect (maximal stimulation: 2.35; E.D. 50: 1.42 micrograms/ml); its action suggested that it involved a subfraction (oLH/cGTH RAc) of the receptor-adenylate cyclase (RAc) systems which mediate the action of cGTH. Another difference was the percentage of total cAMP accumulated under hormonal stimulation and released into the incubation medium; this percentage was much higher with oLH than with cGTH (47 vs 8% after one hour at 20 degrees C). This result might be explained by a localization of oLH/cGTH RAc in cells (theca ?) situated on the outside of the follicles and/or by a relative lack of cAMP binding proteins in the case of cAMP produced by oLH/cGTH RAc. Kinetic and thermodependence studies also disclosed hormone-dependent differences; at 5 degrees C, cAMP concentration was maximal after 40 min with oLH, whereas it was still increasing after 3 h with cGTH. Differences in the properties of phosphodiesterases and/or in the clearance rate of hormone-receptor (HR) complexes could explain these results. The set of RAc systems in eel ovary recognizing fish gonadotropin would then be heterogeneous; some of them would be endowed with original properties concerning receptor specificity and cAMP diffusion as well as associated phosphodiesterase activity and/or HR metabolism. We suggest that at a stage of evolution when a single sensu stricto GTH is present (instead of two in tetrapods), "isoreceptors", differing in specificity and in their fate after hormone binding, could be an important element in the fine regulation of gonadal functions.

Spatial Heterogeneity of Stream Water Chemistry in the Elder Creek Catchment at the Eel River Critical Zone Observatory.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thurnhoffer, B. M.; Lovill, S. M.; Nghiem, A.; Kim, H.; Bishop, J. K. B.

2014-12-01

How does stream chemistry vary with respect to discharge, flow distance, elevation, hill slope orientation, lithology, and vegetation on catchment scale? Is it possible to discern fast flowing seasonally recharged subsurface waters from long residence time waters contributing to base flow? To answer these questions, water samples were collected at ~80 locations distributed over the channel network of the (17 km2) Elder Creek catchment during surveys in May and August/September 2014. The site, located at the Angelo Coast Range Reserve near the headwaters of the South Fork of the Eel River in northern California, experiences a Mediterranean climate with warm dry summers and cold wet winters; this year (2014), our area has received less than 50% of expected precipitation and is experiencing an extreme drought. Our survey times correspond to the beginning of the dry season and late dry season, respectively. The subsurface lithology of the region almost uniform, being largely composed of argillite mudstone with intermittent areas underlain with sandstone. It is forested with Douglas fir, live and tan oaks, madrone and California bay laurel, which vary in abundance with hill-slope orientation. Due to drought, the Elder Catchment has recently experienced the effects of the nearby Lodge Lightening Complex Fire (first detection July 31 2014) and its effects may be differentiated through the continuous 1 - 3 day frequency sampling of Elder Creek water using the ISCO Gravity Filtration System (GFS; Kim et al. 2012, EST). All water samples are analyzed for dissolved major, minor, and trace solutes by Inductively Couple Plasma Mass Spectrometry and this report focuses on major solutes such as Na, K, Ca, Mg and Si; redox sensitive metals Fe and Mn; and Ba and Sr. Preliminary analysis of May 2014 data shows interesting patterns between tributaries, particularly differences between streams on north vs. south facing slopes. Concentrations of Ca, Mg, and Na decrease down slope in south facing tributaries, while they slightly increase downslope in north facing tributaries. Concentrations are relatively invariant in the Elder channel but Elder chemistry differs with respect to Na, Ca and Fe to the South Fork Eel River.

Novel Therapeutic Approaches Toward Treating Prostate Cancer

DTIC Science & Technology

2013-05-01

Kinases, Prostate Cancer, AKT inhibition, Mouse, Prostate Stem Cells 16. SECURITY CLASSIFICATION OF: 17. LIMITATION OF ABSTRACT 18. NUMBER OF PAGES...Bearss 0, Wierda WG, Gandhi V (2009) Pim kinase inhibitor, 5GI-1776, induces apoptosis in CLL lymphocytes. Blood 114:4150--4157. 27. Grey R, et aL...PIM1 expression predict outcome in mantle cell lymphoma treated with high dose therapy, stem eel! transplantation and rituximab: a Cancer and Leukemia

Universal Breast Cancer Antigens as Targets Linking Early Detection and Therapeutic Vaccination

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-09-01

Std. Z39.18 Table of Contents C over ................................................................................................. S F 298...3. Rebbeck TR, Friebel R, Wagner R, Lynch HT, Garber JE, Daly MB, Isaacs C, Olopade 0, Neuhausen SL, Van’t Veer L, Eeles R, Evans F , Tomlinson G...counseling, testing and referral in North America. Chapter in Risk Assessment and Management in Cancer Genetics. Eds. Lalloo F , Kerr B, Friedman JM, Evans

The Scotia Plantation: implications for multiaged and even-aged silviculture

Treesearch

Kevin L. O' Hara

2012-01-01

The Scotia Plantation was established in 1982 on the large alluvial flat south of Scotia and adjacent to the Eel River. Seedlings, from local "woods run" seed sources, were planted on a 3.1 x 3.1 m (10 x 10 ft) grid. Site quality was very high, with site index averaging greater than 45 m (50 yr base). In 1997, the area was divided into blocks and a...

Influence of Sedimentary and Seagrass Microbial Communities on Shallow-Water Benthic Optical Properties

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-09-30

grass, Thalassia testudinum) and in Monterey Bay (eel grass, Zostera marina). Assess how the microbial community affects the flux of photons to and...optical properties and photosynthetic potential of the seagrasses Thalassia testudinum and Zostera marina”. The manuscript will be submitted to the...crystals in Thalassia from LSI. We have pursued this serendipitous discovery, and at the Estuarine Research Federation meeting this fall, we will

A Checkmate, Not a Stalemate: Turkey Versus the PKK

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-06-01

ETA) cases. The conditions that contribute to a deadlock are the source of much de ate. Stalemates may emanate from the each side’s perception...analyze Turkey’s conflict with the PKK 1 Dean G. ruitt “Escalation and De -escalation in symmetric... De ora G. eeling “ Terrorism in Turkey: History deology Structure and Strategy ” in The PKK: A Decades-Old Brutal Marxist-Leninist Separatist

Inexpensive read-out for coincident electron spectroscopy with a transmission electron microscope at nanometer scale using micro channel plates and multistrip anodes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hollander, R. W.; Bom, V. R.; van Eijk, C. W. E.; Faber, J. S.; Hoevers, H.; Kruit, P.

1994-09-01

The elemental composition of a sample at nanometer scale is determined by measurement of the characteristic energy of Auger electrons, emitted in coincidence with incoming primary electrons from a microbeam in a scanning transmission electron microscope (STEM). Single electrons are detected with position sensitive detectors, consisting of MicroChannel Plates (MCP) and MultiStrip Anodes (MSA), one for the energy of the Auger electrons (Auger-detector) and one for the energy loss of primary electrons (EELS-detector). The MSAs are sensed with LeCroy 2735DC preamplifiers. The fast readout is based on LeCroy's PCOS III system. On the detection of a coincidence (Event) energy data of Auger and EELS are combined with timing data to an Event word. Event words are stored in list mode in a VME memory module. Blocks of Event words are scanned by transputers in VME and two-dimensional energy histograms are filled using the timing information to obtain a maximal true/accidental ratio. The resulting histograms are stored on disk of a PC-386, which also controls data taking. The system is designed to handle 10 5 Events per second, 90% of which are accidental. In the histograms the "true" to "accidental" ratio will be 5. The dead time is 15%.

A time-of-flight spectrometer for measuring inelastic to elastic differential cross-section ratios for electron-gas scattering

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

LeClair, L.R.; Trajmar, S.; Khakoo, M.A.

1996-05-01

We describe a crossed electron beam-atomic beam apparatus which utilizes a pulsed electron gun and field free drift tube to obtain time-of-flight (TOF) spectra of electrons scattered from atoms and molecules. This apparatus was constructed for the purpose of obtaining inelastic-to-elastic differential cross-section (DCS) ratios in the energy range extending from threshold to several eV above the threshold of the inelastic channel. The TOF approach eliminates the need for complicated calibration procedures required when using conventional electrostatic electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) at these low energies. The characteristics of the apparatus will be given, along with representative TOF spectra from carbonmore » monoxide. From those spectra we obtained DCS ratios at 90{degree} scattering angle for excitation of the {ital a}{sup 3}{Pi} state of CO, in the impact energy range of 6{endash}15 eV. These ratios were measured with uncertainties as small as {plus_minus}4{percent}, which represents a substantial improvement over previous measurements in this energy range. This demonstrates the feasibility of using the TOF technique to measure DCS ratios which in turn can serve as secondary standards to normalize other inelastic DCSs obtained from measurements with EELS. {copyright} {ital 1996 American Institute of Physics.}« less

Brominated, chlorinated and mixed brominated/chlorinated persistent organic pollutants in European eels (Anquilla anquilla) from Latvian lakes.

PubMed

Zacs, Dzintars; Rjabova, Jekaterina; Fernandes, Alwyn; Bartkevics, Vadims

2016-01-01

Fifty-eight European eel (Anquilla anquilla) specimens collected from five Latvian lakes were investigated for six groups of persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including polychlorinated, polybrominated and mixed bromo-chloro dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/DFs, PBDD/DFs and PXDD/DFs), polychlorinated and mixed bromo-chloro biphenyls (PCBs and PXBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). PCDD/DFs and PCBs were found to occur in the range 0.85-15.8 pg Total-WHO2005-TEQ g(-1) f.w., and concentrations in most of the samples were below the maximum levels specified in European Commission Regulation (EU) No. 1259/2011. The summed concentrations of 27 PBDEs (∑PBDE) and 16 non-dioxin-like PCBs (∑NDL-PCB) were in the ranges of 0.28-26.7 and 6.37-320 ng g(-1) f.w., respectively. PBDD/DFs, PXDD/DFs and PXBs show average upper-bound concentrations of 0.05, 0.06 and 0.01 pg TEQ f.w. and collectively contributed 3.4% to the sum TEQ of dioxin-like compounds. The highest contaminant concentrations were measured in samples from lakes near the Baltic Sea and the industrialised area near Riga (Liepajas and Kisezers lakes). A correlation of POP concentration with the length of collected specimens was observed.

Plasmonically sensitized metal-oxide electron extraction layers for organic solar cells.

PubMed

Trost, S; Becker, T; Zilberberg, K; Behrendt, A; Polywka, A; Heiderhoff, R; Görrn, P; Riedl, T

2015-01-16

ZnO and TiOx are commonly used as electron extraction layers (EELs) in organic solar cells (OSCs). A general phenomenon of OSCs incorporating these metal-oxides is the requirement to illuminate the devices with UV light in order to improve device characteristics. This may cause severe problems if UV to VIS down-conversion is applied or if the UV spectral range (λ < 400 nm) is blocked to achieve an improved device lifetime. In this work, silver nanoparticles (AgNP) are used to plasmonically sensitize metal-oxide based EELs in the vicinity (1-20 nm) of the metal-oxide/organic interface. We evidence that plasmonically sensitized metal-oxide layers facilitate electron extraction and afford well-behaved highly efficient OSCs, even without the typical requirement of UV exposure. It is shown that in the plasmonically sensitized metal-oxides the illumination with visible light lowers the WF due to desorption of previously ionosorbed oxygen, in analogy to the process found in neat metal oxides upon UV exposure, only. As underlying mechanism the transfer of hot holes from the metal to the oxide upon illumination with hν < Eg is verified. The general applicability of this concept to most common metal-oxides (e.g. TiOx and ZnO) in combination with different photoactive organic materials is demonstrated.

Electronic structure and electron energy-loss spectroscopy of ZrO2 zirconia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dash, L. K.; Vast, Nathalie; Baranek, Philippe; Cheynet, Marie-Claude; Reining, Lucia

2004-12-01

The atomic and electronic structures of zirconia are calculated within density functional theory, and their evolution is analyzed as the crystal-field symmetry changes from tetrahedral [cubic (c-ZrO2) and tetragonal (t-ZrO2) phases] to octahedral (hypothetical rutile ZrO2 ), to a mixing of these symmetries (monoclinic phase, m-ZrO2 ). We find that the theoretical bulk modulus in c-ZrO2 is 30% larger than the experimental value, showing that the introduction of yttria in zirconia has a significant effect. Electronic structure fingerprints which characterize each phase from their electronic spectra are identified. We have carried out electron energy-loss spectroscopy experiments at low momentum transfer and compared these results to the theoretical spectra calculated within the random phase approximation. We show a dependence of the valence and 4p ( N2,3 edge) plasmons on the crystal structure, the dependence of the latter being brought into the spectra by local-field effects. Last, we attribute low energy excitations observed in EELS of m-ZrO2 to defect states 2eV above the top of the intrinsic valence band, and the EELS fundamental band gap value is reconciled with the 5.2 or 5.8eV gaps determined by vacuum ultraviolet spectroscopy.

Coupling EELS/EFTEM Imaging with Environmental Fluid Cell Microscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Unocic, Raymond R; Baggetto, Loic; Veith, Gabriel M

2012-01-01

Insight into dynamically evolving electrochemical reactions and mechanisms encountered in electrical energy storage (EES) and conversion technologies (batteries, fuel cells, and supercapacitors), materials science (corrosion and oxidation), and materials synthesis (electrodeposition) remains limited due to the present lack of in situ high-resolution characterization methodologies. Electrochemical fluid cell microscopy is an emerging in-situ method that allows for the direct, real-time imaging of electrochemical processes within a fluid environment. This technique is facilitated by the use of MEMS-based biasing microchip platforms that serve the purpose of sealing the highly volatile electrolyte between two electron transparent SiNx membranes and interfacing electrodes to anmore » external potentiostat for controlled nanoscale electrochemislly experiments [!]. In order to elucidate both stmctural and chemical changes during such in situ electrochemical experiments, it is impmtant to first improve upon the spatial resolution by utilizing energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM) (to minimize chromatic aben ation), then to detennine the chemical changes via electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). This presents a formidable challenge since the overall thickness through which electrons are scattered through the multiple layers of the cell can be on the order of hundreds of nanometers to microns, scattering through which has the deleterious effect of degrading image resolution and decreasing signal-to noise for spectroscopy [2].« less

Calcium transport mechanism in molting crayfish revealed by microanalysis

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mizuhira, V.; Ueno, M.

1983-01-01

Crayfish provide a good model in which to study the transport mechanism of Ca ions. During the molting stage, decalcified Ca ions are transferred into the blood and accumulate in the gastrolith epithelium, after which a gastrolith is formed on the surface of the epithelium. The gastrolith is dissolved in the stomach after molting, and the Ca is reabsorbed and redistributed throughout the newly formed exoskeleton. We studied the mechanism of Ca transport by cytochemical precipitation of Ca ions and by electron microanalysis, including X-ray microanalysis (EDX) and electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS), with a computer. In EDX analysis, the finemore » precipitates of K-antimonate in the gastrolith mitochondria clearly defined Ca with antimony; we also observed a large amount of Ca-oxalate in the mitochondria, and Ca-K X-ray pulses were clearly defined. Ca-K X-rays were also detected from fresh freeze-substituted mitochondria. Finally, we succeeded in taking a Ca-L EELS image from the mitochondria of fresh freeze-substituted thin sections. Only a very small amount of Ca was detected from the cell membrane and other organelles. Ca-adenosine triphosphatase (ATPase) and Mg-ATPase activity was also very clearly demonstrated in the mitochondria. These enzymes may play an important role in Ca metabolism.« less

Fish allergy in atopic children.

PubMed

Peng, Y H; Shyur, S D; Chang, C L; Lai, C L; Chu, S H; Wu, W C; Wu, C Y

2001-12-01

The prevalence of fish allergy among 11 atopic children with elevated levels of specific immunoglobulin (Ig) E for cod was determined. None of the children had a history of fish allergy. All of the children had asthma and allergic rhinitis and 5 of them had also atopic dermatitis. The children underwent allergy skin tests (codfish, tuna, catfish, salmon, flounder, and bass), specific IgE tests (salmon, trout, tuna, eel, and mackerel), and food challenge tests. Skin tests in cod-specific IgE-positive children were positive for codfish in 4 children, tuna in 2, catfish in 2, salmon in 6, flounder in one, and bass in 2. Three children had elevated specific IgE for salmon, 5 for trout, 8 for tuna, 4 for eel, and 4 for mackerel. Oral fish challenge with 10 g of fish did not result in positive reaction in any of the children. In conclusion, a positive food challenge test provided the only definitive confirmation of fish allergy, whereas positive allergy skin tests or positive specific IgE tests were less reliable. Skin tests and in vitro specific IgE assays were not correlated with clinical symptoms of fish allergy, and the results of these 2 tests did not correlate with each other in this study.

Upstream dispersal of an invasive crayfish aided by a fish passage facility

USGS Publications Warehouse

Welsh, Stuart A.; Loughman, Zachary J.

2015-01-01

Fish passage facilities for reservoir dams have been used to restore habitat connectivity within riverine networks by allowing upstream passage for native species. These facilities may also support the spread of invasive species, an unintended consequence and potential downside of upstream passage structures. We documented dam passage of the invasive virile crayfish, Orconectes virilis (Hagen, 1870), at fish ladders designed for upstream passage of American eels, Anguilla rostrata (Lesueur, 1817), in the Shenandoah River drainage, USA. Ladder use and upstream passage of 11 virile crayfish occurred from 2007–2014 during periods of low river discharge (<30 m3s–1) and within a wide range of water temperatures from 9.0–28.6 °C. Virile crayfish that used the eel ladders were large adults with a mean carapace length and width of 48.0 mm and 24.1 mm, respectively. Our data demonstrated the use of species-specific fish ladders by a non-target non-native species, which has conservation and management implications for the spread of aquatic invasive species and upstream passage facilities. Specifically, managers should consider implementing long-term monitoring of fish passage facilities with emphasis on detection of invasive species, as well as methods to reduce or eliminate passage of invasive species.