bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determining Vitreousness of Durum Wheat Kernels Using near Infrared Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Gorretta N. , Roger J.M. , Aubert M. , Bellon-Maurel V. , Campan F. , Roumet P.
Published: May 2009

Vitreousness is an important grading factor for durum wheat kernel that is associated with protein content. The European Union (EU) regulations stipulate the use of a visual method to determine the vitreousness rate. However, some authors have been interested in the development of automatic and non-destructive methods based on near infrared spectroscopy or digital imaging technology. In this paper, we propose to couple spectroscopy and digital imaging technology and, thus, to analyse the potential of a near infrared hyperspectral imaging system to classify wheat kernels by their vitreousness. Hyperspectral reflectance images of wheat kernel at different vitreousness rates have been achieved (wavelength range: 650–1100 nm). A discrimination method using latent variables from partial least squares has enabled satisfactory discrimination results to be obtained: perfect separation between vitreous and non-vitreous kernels and a classification rate reaching up to 94% for the discrimination of total and partial starchy kernel classes.
Ultraviolet-Visible, near Infrared and Mid Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy of Turquoise
Authors: Reddy B. Jagannatha , Frost Ray L. , Weier Matt L. , Martens Wayde N.
Published: May 2009

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy of turquoise minerals from Arizona and Senegal with a formula of Cu(Al6–x,Fex)(PO4)4(OH)8.4H2O has been studied and a comparison of their NIR, ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) and mid-IR spectra made. UV-vis and NIR reflectance spectroscopy is the most effective approach for the detection and determination of transition metal ions that cause colour to minerals and semi-precious gems such as turquoise. The UV-vis spectra of the two turquoise minerals (blue and green) reported in this research are distinctly different. The spectra confirm the difference in the origin of colour of the minerals. The paramagnetism of the blue mineral arises mainly from divalent copper. Turquoise from Senegal, West Africa has a replacement of some Al(III) by Fe(III) in the structure. NIR spectroscopy identifies the bands attributed to the hydroxyl units. The NIR spectroscopic technique is most sensitive in detecting Fe2+, even though it is present in very low concentrations in turquoise from Senegal. Mid-IR spectra of the two mineral samples are very similar in the 1200 to 900 cm−1 region but strong differences are observed in the 900 to 100 cm−1 region. The effect of substitution of Fe for Al in turquoise from Senegal shifts the bands to lower wavenumbers. Factor group analysis (FGA) implies four OH stretching vibrations for both the water and hydroxyl units. Two bands ascribed to water in these minerals at ∼ 3280 and 3070 cm−1 and three hydroxyl stretching vibrations are observed. The combination of these bands and their fundamental overtones give rise to many of the features in the NIR spectra.
Determination of Chemical and Biological Properties of Composts Using near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Michel Kerstin , Bruns Christian , Terhoeven-Urselmans Thomas , Kleikamp Bernd , Ludwig Bernard
Published: May 2009

Successful use of compost to maintain plant health and soil fertility requires consistent monitoring of compost quality. For this purpose, near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy might be a useful alternative to standard procedures which are often time-consuming and laborious. Ninety-eight yard-waste compost samples were analysed by conventional methods and NIR spectroscopy. Reference analysis included the determination of age, organic C (Corg) and total N (Nt) contents, C/N ratio, microbial biomass (Cmic), the ratio of Cmic to organic C (Cmic/Corg), basal respiration, metabolic quotient (qCO2), hydrolysis of fluorescein diacetate (FDA–HR), specific enzyme activity, i.e. FDA–HR related to Cmic, and suppression of pathogens. All samples were scanned in the visible light and near infrared regions (400–2500 nm). Cross-validation equations were developed using the whole spectrum (first and second derivative) and a modified partial least-square regression method. NIR predicted basal respiration and age successfully [ratio of standard deviation and standard error of cross-validation ( RPD) was 4.3 or 2.9, respectively]. All other properties, i.e. Corg and Nt contents, C/N ratio, Cmic, Cmic/Corg, qCO2, FDA–HR, specific enzyme activity and suppression of pathogens at an inoculation level of 5‰ related to rating or fresh weight, respectively, were predicted with moderate success (1.4 ≤ RPD ≤ 2.0). However, the coefficients of determination for specific enzyme activity and suppression of pathogens related to fresh weight were rather low ( r2 = 0.49 and 0.47, respectively). The results presented indicate that NIR spectroscopy is able to determine important compost quality parameters. However, further research is needed concerning the basis of and limitations for the determination of specific enzyme activity and suppressiveness by NIR spectroscopy.
Rapidly Estimating Nutrient Contents of Fattening Pig Manure from Floor Scrapings by near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Zengling , Han Lujia , Fan Xia
Published: May 2009

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of near infrared (NIR) reflectance spectroscopy technology for rapid analysis of the nutrient content in fattening pig manure which was obtained from floor scrapings. Diverse samples ( n = 108) were collected. Samples were scanned from 12000 to 4000 cm−1 (833 to 2500 nm). The NIR calibration models of moisture, organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN), ammonium nitrogen (AN), total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) were developed using the leave-one-out cross-validation procedure using partial least squares method. Results showed that NIR reflectance spectroscopy is a potentially usable method to determine moisture, OM, AN and TK. The calibrations for TN, Cu and Zn were found to be able to discriminate between high and low values. Although further efforts with larger data sets are needed to better determine the feasibility, limitations and requirements for developing accurate and robust calibrations for manure constituents using NIR reflectance spectroscopy, there are encouraging results to recommend NIR reflectance spectroscopy as a rapid instrument for on-site measurement of pig manure from floor scrapings.
A New Method to Improve the Accuracy of the near Infrared Models: Noise Addition Partial Least Squares Method
Authors: Dardenne P. , Pierna J.A. Fernández
Published: May 2009

The accuracy of the y vectors estimated by near infrared spectroscopic models depends on the quality of the reference method. In this paper the reference data values are augmented with noise. The level of noise added ranged from 0 to 20% of the variability for the mean y values. Partial least squares models are then calculated for each addition of noise resulting in many regression coefficient vectors that are used to produce the final calibration model. This final model is selected as the one with the highest R2 with the median of all these coefficient vectors. This model, applied on unchanged independent test sets, produced a root mean square error of prediction that leads to a clear improvement over the original value without noise. The ability of this technique is investigated on a simulated and on an industrial data set.
The Use of Two-Dimensional Correlation Spectroscopy to Characterise the Differences in Research Grade Instruments
Authors: Barton F.E. , de Haseth James A. , Himmelsbach D.S.
Published: May 2009

The major question about the newer instruments is “are they more capable than the instruments we have been using for decades”? In looking for a way to examine the utility of commercial instrumentation capable of performing the measurement of stickiness in cotton, a method was required for evaluating the way these instruments performed compared with the research grade spectrometer which was first successfully used to measure stickiness. While all of the instruments had the potential analytical capability of measuring sticky cotton, all would require even more costly hardening to be used in a cotton gin or spinning plant. Regardless, the calibration would need to be transferred to any of these new instruments. While there are existing algorithms to do this, it is imperative to understand the differences between instrument platforms. Two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS) has been used to characterise instrumental differences which will affect performance, stability and reliability. The 2DCOS programs were re-written in Matlab ver. 6.51 to provide a common format with the newer instruments and the special purpose instruments which utilise Matlab for data functions. The instruments used in the complete calibration studies of sticky cotton were evaluated for their instrument function parameters. The possibilities for using 2DCOS for instrument characterisation was explored in concert with available spectral technologies.
Low-Temperature Rheo-Optical Fourier Transform near Infrared Spectroscopy of Poly(Dimethylsiloxane)/Polycarbonate Copolymers
Authors: Kolomiets O. , Hoffmann G. G. , Siesler H.W.
Published: May 2009

This communication outlines the potential of variable-temperature Fourier transform near infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy to study in situ the anisotropy induced in polymers by mechanical deformation. For this purpose, a series of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS)/polycarbonate (PC) copolymers with varying compositions and block lengths were investigated by simultaneous mechanical and Fourier transform near infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopic, so-called rheo-optical, measurements during cyclic elongation-recovery procedures between +22°C and −55°C. Depending on the composition and block lengths of the block copolymers, different orientation and recovery phenomena were observed for the hard (PC) and soft (PDMS) segments and, for the first time, strain-induced crystallisation of the PDMS-segments was derived from on-line FT-NIR spectroscopic measurements at −55°C.
Near Infrared Spectroscopy to Measure Maize Grain Composition on Plot Combine Harvesters: Evaluation of Calibration Techniques, Mathematical Transformations and Scatter Corrections
Authors: Montes J.M. , Paul C. , Kusterer B. , Melchinger A.E.
Published: May 2009

Near infrared spectroscopy on combine harvesters (NOCH) and choppers (NOC) is used successfully in maize breeding programmes for both grain and forage in central Europe. However, it requires the development of accurate and reliable calibration models. The objectives of our study were to assess the effects of (i) calibration techniques, (ii) mathematical transformations and (iii) scatter corrections on the development of calibration models based on NOCH spectra for determination of dry matter, crude protein and starch content of maize grain. Plot combine harvesters equipped with diode-array spectrometers were used. The calibration technique was the most important factor affecting prediction ability. The importance of spectral data pre-treatment depended on the particular constituent considered. It provided no benefits for dry matter and had variable effects on crude protein and starch.
Analysis of Grapes and Wine by near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Cozzolino D. , Dambergs R.G. , Janik L. , Cynkar W.U. , Gishen M.
Published: May 2009

Spectroscopic techniques such as near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy are used in the food industry to monitor and assess the composition and quality of products. Similar to other food industries, the wine industry has a clear need for simple, rapid and cost-effective techniques for objectively evaluating the quality of grapes, wines and spirits. Thirty years have passed since the first work reported by Kaffka and Norris on the use of NIR spectroscopy to analyse wine. Since then, NIR spectroscopy has been used for grape and wine compositional analysis, fermentation monitoring and wine grading. However, the use of NIR spectroscopy in the wine industry is still in its infancy. From the analysis of the scatter information available, it appears that NIR spectroscopy is applied in different steps during the wine production. This review highlights the most recent applications of NIR spectroscopy in the grape and wine industry. Additional information is also provided on the use of mid infrared spectroscopy for wine analysis.
An Application of near Infrared Spectroscopy to the Study of Carbonate Minerals—Smithsonite, Rhodochrosite, Sphaerocobaltite and Cadmium Smithsonite
Authors: Frost Ray L. , Reddy B. Jagannadha , Wain Daria L. , Hales Matthew C.
Published: May 2009

Near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has been applied to the study of selected calcite group minerals including smithsonite, rhodochrosite, sphaerocobaltite and cadmium smithsonite. The isomorphic substitution of calcium in calcite group minerals by divalent cations such as Fe, Cu, Cd, Mn, Mg, Co, Zn is in agreement with variable spectral properties observed through NIR spectroscopy. This substitution results in highly-coloured minerals. The NIR spectra of calcite group minerals that contain absorption features due to the divalent cations, Fe2+, Cu2+ and Co2+ act as an aid to mineral identification. The main indicator is the strength of ferrous ion bands in the NIR spectra supporting spectral classification of calcite group minerals. The observation of Cu2+ bands in smithsonite and cadmium smithsonite with different band positions around 12400 and 8500 cm−1 (0.81–1.18 μm) confirms Cu2+ substitution for Zn2+. Co2+ is the major cation in sphaerocobaltite and exhibits a strong feature from 12000 to 7000 cm−1 (0.83–1.43 μm) which is distinctly different from other minerals of the group. The broad band centred at 9835 cm−1 (1.02 μm) with a split component at 8186 cm−1 (1.22 μm) is assigned to 4T1g(F) → 4T2g(F) spin-allowed transition of Co2+ ion. Significant shifts are observed for carbonate ion due to the wide range of cation substitutions in the mineral structure in conjunction with the ferrous iron which is a common impurity in calcite minerals. This NIR spectral features enable mineral identification. The implication is that NIR spectroscopy can be used to remotely detect carbonate minerals and assess their isomorphic substitution.
Comparison of Visible and near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy for the Detection of Faeces/Ingesta Contaminants for Sanitation Verification at Slaughter Plants
Authors: Liu Yongliang , Chao Kuanglin , Chen Yud-Ren , Kim Moon S. , Nou Xiangwu , Chan Diane E. , Yang Chun-Chieh
Published: May 2009

Visible and near infrared (NIR) spectra were acquired to explore the potential for the discrimination of faeces/ingesta (“F/I”) objectives from rubber belt and stainless steel (“RB/SS”) backgrounds by using several wavelengths. Spectral features of “F/I” objectives and “RB/SS” backgrounds showed large differences in both visible and NIR regions, due to the diversity of their chemical compositions. These spectral distinctions formed the basis on which to develop simple three-band ratio algorithms for the classification analysis. Meanwhile, score–score plots from principal component analysis (PCA) indicated the obvious cluster separation between “F/I” objectives and “RB/SS” backgrounds, but the corresponding loadings did not show any specific wavelengths for developing effective algorithms. Furthermore, two-class soft independent modelling of class analogy models were developed to compare the correct classifications with those from the ratio algorithms. Results indicated that using ratio algorithms in the visible or NIR region could separate “F/I” objectives from “RB/SS” backgrounds with a success rate of over 97%.
Prediction of Chemical Parameters in Maize Silage by near Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Liu Xian , Han Lujia
Published: May 2009

A total of 125 maize silage samples were used to evaluate the ability of near infrared (NIR) reflectance spectroscopy to predict chemical compositions. NIR calibrations were developed by means of partial least-square (PLS) regression. Results showed that NIR analysis of dried samples of maize silage could provide accurate predictions of dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), hemicellulose, ash, pH, lactic acid and butyric acid content with validation correlation coefficient of determination ( r2 v) and standard deviation/root mean square error of prediction ( SD/RMSEP) of 0.88 (2.98), 0.89 (3.10), 0.86 (2.81), 0.87 (2.36), 0.81 (2.37), 0.80 (2.53), 0.93 (3.85), 0.81 (2.20) and 0.64 (2.26), respectively in g kg−1 on a dry weight basis. The NIR technique also could be used to predict (with r2 v and SD/RMSEP) the DM, 0.90 (3.54), CP, 0.82 (2.36), NDF, 0.82 (2.34), ash, 0.70 (2.10), pH, 0.79 (2.21) and lactic acid, 0.62 (2.11) of fresh samples of maize silage in g kg−1 on a dry weight basis.
Prevalence of Ureaplasma urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum in semen of infertile and healthy men
Authors: Zeighami H , Peerayeh S N , Yazdi R S , Sorouri R
Published: May 2009

Ureaplasma urealyticum is a causative agent of non-gonococcal urethritis and is implicated in the pathogenesis of prostatitis, epididymitis and infertility. The organism is more common in partners of infertile than fertile marriages. U. urealyticum infections not only jeopardize fertility but also pose a risk for infertility treatment and resulting pregnancies. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of U. urealyticum and Ureaplasma parvum in semen of infertile and healthy men by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Semen samples were obtained from infertile patients and healthy controls and were subjected to the routine andrological analysis and PCR. DNA was extracted by the Cadieux method, and analysed by PCR protocol with specific primers for urease and multiple-banded antigen genes. Ureaplasmas were detected significantly by PCR in 12 of 100 (12%) semen specimens from infertile patients and in three of 100 (3%) healthy men. The volume of semen fluid, concentration of sperm cells, and sperm cell with normal morphology were significantly decreased in infertile men. In the group of infertile patients with PCR positive for Ureaplasmas, the volume, count and morphology of semen samples were lower than in the infertile patients with PCR-negative results. U. urealyticum species in semen of infertile men was found to be high (9%) than in healthy controls (1%). Detection rate for U. parvum was 3% in the infertile group and 2% in healthy men. The results indicate that U. urealyticum species is more common in specimens of infertile men. The percentage of normal sperm cells, the volume of semen and the percentage of sperm cells with motility in the PCR positive for U. urealyticum species group were lower than in the PCR positive for U. parvum group.
Vulval lymphoedema following pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Talwar A , Puri N , Sandhu H P S
Published: May 2009

Acquired lymphoedema of the vulva is induced by impaired lymph flow. We present the case of a 35-year-old woman having lymphoedema of the vulva following pulmonary tuberculosis, which she had developed four years back for which she had taken a full course of antitubercular treatment for nine months from the Chest and Tuberculosis department. The biopsy taken from the perianal swellings showed hyperkeratosis and acanthosis with multiple dilated lymph specs.
Can data from HIV voluntary counselling and testing be used to assess the impact of public health interventions? A literature review
Authors: Guy R J , Prybylski D , Fairley C K , Hellard M E , Kaldor J M
Published: May 2009

Routinely collected data from clinical sites offering voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) for HIV diagnosis have been used to evaluate the impact of public health interventions; however, there has been considerable diversity in strategies. To gain an understanding of the outcome of these evaluations and provide the basis for considering methodological issues, we reviewed published studies. Search criteria were met by 20 papers that described 38 interventions, of which 29 were media-related and nine were policy changes. Most (25 of 38) were based on comparisons between two time periods, before and during the intervention, while 13 used multiple time points, including nine that adopted regression methods. About a third (13 out of 38) of the evaluations monitored HIV positivity rates and a small number investigated impact according to sex (six), age (five) and whether clients were new or repeat (three). For the 29 media-related interventions, there was an average 53% increase in the number of HIV tests performed during the intervention compared with beforehand. For policy change interventions, a 35% increase was found. Routinely collected data from VCT sites can be used to evaluate the impact of public health interventions, but attention to methodological issues will maximize their value for evaluation purposes.
Social ties and short‐term self‐reported delinquent behaviour of personality disordered forensic outpatients
Authors: Bouman Yvonne H. A. , de Ruiter Corine , Schene Aart H.
Published: May 2009

Purpose.In community‐based forensic psychiatry, patients' social ties are considered as protective factor in a risk management strategy. However, it is unknown whether these ties actually assist patients to refrain from re‐offending. We hypothesised a protective role for social ties in re‐offending behaviour.

Methods.In a sample of forensic outpatients with a personality disorder (N= 55), the relationship between social ties (social contacts and participation in social institutions) and short‐term self‐reported re‐offences was studied within a prospective study design with a 6‐month follow‐up period.

Results.Our results provide evidence for a protective function of club participation. For violent re‐offences, social institutions were protective and this protective function remained, even when a patient had network members with a criminal background. Except for work‐related contacts, social contacts did not provide protection.

Conclusions.The protective effect of social ties, especially club participation, on desistance from re‐offending in forensic psychiatric patients merits further attention from researchers and clinicians.
Feeding goals sought by mothers of 3–5‐year‐old children
Authors: Moore Sue N. , Tapper Katy , Murphy Simon
Published: May 2009

Objectives

One means through which children learn eating behaviours is the feeding strategies used by parents. Although research has studied the effects of parental feeding strategies on consumption, choice, and liking, little is known about the goals parents themselves seek. The study aimed to explore the feeding goals sought by parents of preschool children.

Design

An exploratory qualitative study using in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews was undertaken. Data were analysed using thematic and interpretative techniques.

Methods

A snowballing sample of 12 mothers of children aged 3–5 years was used. Mothers were asked to recall and talk through their feeding experiences with this child. Probe questions were used to explore the reasoning behind the actions described. Data were transcribed and subjected to concurrent coding and interpretation.

Results

Mothers spontaneously classified their child as a ‘good’ or a ‘bad’ eater. Consumption emerged as the dominant feeding goal. For ‘bad’ eaters, a short‐term goal of consuming any food, rather than no food, was adopted. For ‘good’ eaters, a long‐term goal of consuming a varied, well‐balanced diet was favoured. Liking as a feeding goal was not mentioned.

Conclusions

Although the literature suggests that liking is the most appropriate feeding goal for the establishment of long‐term healthy eating behaviours, parents do not knowingly, repeatedly and consistently target food likes as a direct outcome of their feeding strategies. Interventions that focus on ‘how’ parents feed their children, as well as ‘what’, are recommended.
Effects of substrate on laboratory spalting of sugar maple
Authors: Robinson Sara C. , Richter Dana L. , Laks Peter E.
Published: May 2009

Spalting is the coloration of wood caused by fungal colonization. Woodturners, craftspeople, and artists appreciate spalted wood for its aesthetic appeal and uniqueness. Laboratory-induced spalting aims at a repeatable procedure in which wood is inoculated with selected fungi to obtain natural color with high aesthetic appeal, low weight loss and good machinability. Vermiculite (a natural clay with a high capacity for water holding and cation exchange) has been the primary incubation substrate for spalting research despite soil being the standard substrate for soil block decay testing. In this research, we explored the differences between these two substrates and their effects on the growth of spalting fungi on sugar maple (Acer saccharum) wood. Five fungi, Trametes versicolor, Xylaria polymorpha, Arthrographis cuboidea, Ceratocystis pilifera, and Ceratocystis virescens, were tested for their weight loss and spalting abilities on 14-mm sugar maple cubes incubated in both soil and vermiculite. Weight losses from all fungi were either unaffected or reduced by incubation in vermiculite compared to soil. In vermiculite, X. polymorpha produced more zone lines and A. cuboidea produced more pigment than blocks incubated in soil. Growth in vermiculite decreased weight loss of blocks inoculated with T. versicolor and X. polymorpha, while bleaching was unaffected regardless of substrate. External blue stain was higher on blocks inoculated with either Ceratocystis species and incubated in soil. These results indicate that vermiculite is a better substrate for spalting regardless of fungus due to the higher external pigmentation, lower weight loss, and better color contrast on the sugar maple blocks incubated in this substrate.
Vertical Pullout Test for Measurement of Soil-Geomembrane Interface Friction Parameters
Authors: El Mohtar Chadi S. , Khire Milind V.
Published: May 2009

This paper presents a vertical pullout test (VPT) developed to measure the peak interface friction angle (δ) and adhesion (a) between soil and planar geosynthetic products. The key advantages of this test are (1) relatively low capital cost for the equipment, (2) relatively simple compared to the conventional methods, (3) the setup can be relatively easily adapted by small conventional soil testing laboratories, and (4) the setup can be transported to the field for field measurement for relatively quick preliminary evaluation of soils. The testing method was evaluated by comparing the δ and a obtained from the VPT to (1) those parameters measured using a conventional soil direct shear apparatus modified to also measure interface friction between planar geomembranes and soil according to ASTM D5321-02, and (2) values published in the literature. Three coarse-grained soils and three types of geomembranes having three sample sizes were evaluated using the pullout test. The peak interface parameters obtained from the VPT were within 12 % of the values obtained from the direct shear test.
Electrochemical and in-situ SERS Study of Passive Film Characteristics and Corrosion Performance of 9%Cr Microcomposite Steel in Highly Alkaline Environments
Authors: Mancio M. , Kusinski G. , Monteiro P. J. M. , Devine T. M.
Published: May 2009

The passive films formed on the 9%Cr, 0.1%C, microcomposite steels (ASTM A1035) in highly alkaline environments, such as concrete pore solutions, were studied. In-situ surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) was conducted during cyclic potentiodynamic polarization experiments to characterize the formation and breakdown mechanisms of the passive films formed. A solution of 0.55 M KOH + 0.16 M NaOH, with and without chlorides (0 % and 3.5 % NaCl), was used for the SERS experiments. In addition, the corrosion performance of microcomposite steels as a function of pH (9–13) and ionic strength of the solution (from 10-5 to 10-1 M) was evaluated via polarization resistance (Rp) experiments, and compared to the performance of regular carbon steel. Results show that the passive film formed on the microcomposite steel seems to be characterized mainly by the presence of Cr(OH)3 and minor amounts of Fe species; more specifically Fe3O4 and a Fe(III) phase. The film is considerably more protective than that formed on conventional carbon steel under the same test conditions. Microcomposite steel has not shown a reduction of polarization resistance as a function of pH drop when the ionic strength of the medium was kept constant, in a stark contrast to the behavior verified for the regular carbon steel rebar.
Diffuse scattering and disorder in zirconia
Authors: Frey Friedrich , Boysen Hans , Kaiser-Bischoff Ines
Published: May 2009

Diffuse scattering in zirconia is reviewed mainly for yttria- and calcia-stabilized material. Common general disorder features are explained by rhombohedral-type and/or tetragonal-type short-range and long-range ordered clusters or “domains”. Differences are comparatively discussed on the basis of available experimental data and theoretical work.
Diffuse scattering and phason modes in the i-AlPdMn quasicrystalline phase
Authors: Boissieu Marc de , Francoual Sonia
Published: May 2009

We review results obtained in the study of the diffuse scattering in the i-AlPdMn quasicrystal. Most of the diffuse scattering is the result of long wavelength phason modes. The shape and intensity distribution of the diffuse scattering is well reproduced using the generalised elasticity theory and two phason elastic constants. The temperature dependence of the diffuse scattering indicates a softening of the phason elastic constant as the temperature is lowered. Using coherent X-rays and photo-correlation X-ray spectroscopy, it is shown that phason modes are collective diffusive modes, in agreement with the hydrodynamic theory of long wavelength fluctuations in quasicrystals.
Case studies of molecular disorder
Authors: Ravy Sylvain , Launois Pascale , Moret Roger , Pouget Jean-Paul
Published: May 2009

In this review we present three representative examples of molecular disorder: substitution disorder for carbon nanotubes in zeolite, coupling between substitution disorder and displacements through the pinning of charge-density waves in one-dimensional molecular conductors, and the combination of random packing with orientational disorder in the C60—C60 dimers systems.
Ecological impacts of genotypic diversity in the clonal seagrassZostera marina
Authors: Hughes A. Randall , Stachowicz John J.
Published: May 2009

Genetic diversity, like species diversity, can have important consequences for communities and ecosystems. However, little is known about whether the effects of genetic diversity demonstrated in experimental assemblages are of sufficient strength to generate patterns in natural systems. We conducted a survey of eelgrass (Zostera marina) to examine the correlation between eelgrass clonal diversity and two metrics of community structure across two seasons: shoot density (reflective of habitat quality) and biomass of epiphytic algae (as a measure of food resource availability). Eelgrass clonal diversity was not related to epiphyte biomass in either winter or summer. Interestingly, there was a positive relationship between eelgrass clonal diversity and shoot density only in the winter, when eelgrass experiences stress from abiotic and biotic factors. The magnitude of this correlation was similar to that of other factors known to affect shoot density such as tidal elevation or position in the bed. In contrast, summer shoot density and diversity were uncorrelated. This natural pattern is consistent with previous experimental results in which diversity positively affected shoot density only during periods of abiotic or biotic stress, suggesting that the effects of clonal diversity are sufficiently strong to influence shoot density in the field, despite the presence of potentially confounding environmental gradients.
Larval quality is shaped by matrix effects: implications for connectivity in a marine metapopulation
Authors: Shima Jeffrey S. , Swearer Stephen E.
Published: May 2009

Variation in the phenotype or “quality” of dispersing individuals can shape colonization success and thus local dynamics and patterns of connectivity in a metapopulation. In marine reef systems, larval dispersal typically connects fragmented populations, and larval quality may be shaped by developmental history at the natal reef (e.g., parental effects) and/or by conditions in the pelagic environment (e.g., food, temperature, hydrodynamics, predator regime). We extract information recorded within the incremental bands of fish “ear stones” (otoliths) to reconstruct the early life histories of reef fish, to evaluate whether larval quality is a function of natal populations, dispersal histories, or both. We sampled sagittal otoliths from 282 common triplefins (Forsterygion lapillum) collected at approximately weekly intervals between December 2003 and March 2004, from three sites within Wellington Harbor (New Zealand) and three sites along the adjacent Wellington South Coast. We used image analysis to quantify otolith traits and to reconstruct five larval phenotypes (pelagic larval duration, size‐at‐hatch, early larval growth, late larval growth, and an instantaneous larval growth rate), followed by a principal components analysis to derive a composite measure of larval quality. We used laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry to quantify otolith microchemistry, followed by a set of cluster analyses (based upon 13 statistical descriptors of time series for each of 11 elemental ratios) to identify and characterize two putative natal “source populations” and two putative “larval dispersal histories.” We evaluated the relationship between larval quality, source populations, and dispersal histories using two‐way ANOVA and MANOVA, and determined that larval quality of F. lapillum is a function of larval dispersal history and not source population identity. Specifically, larvae of F. lapillum with microchemical signatures consistent with retention and/or entrainment in the nutrient‐enriched Wellington Harbor had traits associated with elevated larval quality (i.e., short pelagic larval durations, small size‐at‐hatch, fast larval growth, and fast instantaneous growth rates). Our results suggest that conditions in the pelagic larval environment shape larval quality and potentially mediate metapopulation connectivity. In the case of F. lapillum from Wellington Harbor, environmentally induced heterogeneity in larval quality may limit connectivity by favoring successful replenishment by locally retained larvae over long‐distance dispersers.
Spatial scales of variance in abundance of intertidal species: effects of region, dispersal mode, and trophic level
Authors: Burrows Michael T. , Harvey Robin , Robb Linda , Poloczanska Elvira S. , Mieszkowska Nova , Moore Pippa , Leaper Rebecca , Hawkins Stephen J. , Benedetti-Cecchi Lisandro
Published: May 2009

Determination of the pattern of variation in population abundance among spatial scales offers much insight into the potential regulating factors. Here we offer a method of quantifying spatial variance on a range of scales derived by sampling of irregularly spaced sites along complex coastlines. We use it to determine whether the nature of spatial variance depends on the trophic level or the mode of dispersal of the species involved and the role of the complexity of the underlying habitat. A least‐cost distance model was used to determine distances by sea between all pairs of sites. Ordination of this distance matrix using multidimensional scaling allowed estimation of variance components with hierarchical ANOVA at nested spatial scales using spatial windows. By repeatedly moving these spatial windows and using a second set of spatial scales, average variance scale functions were derived for 50+ species in the UK rocky intertidal. Variance spectra for most species were well described by the inverse power law (1/fβ) for noise spectra, with values for the exponent ranging from 0 to 1.1. At higher trophic levels (herbivores and carnivores), those species with planktonic dispersal had significantly higher β values, indicating greater large‐ than small‐scale variability, as did those on simpler coastlines (southwestern England and Wales vs. western Scotland). Average abundance and proportional incidence of species had the strongest influence on β values, with those of intermediate abundance and incidence having much greater large‐scale variance (β ≈ 0.5) than rare or ubiquitous species (β ≈ 0).
Top‐down effects on antagonistic inducible defense and offense
Authors: Kishida Osamu , Trussell Geoffrey C. , Nishimura Kinya
Published: May 2009

Antagonistic phenotypic plasticity may strongly influence trait evolution in tightly interacting predator–prey pairs as well as the role that trait plasticity plays in community dynamics. Most work on trait plasticity has focused on single predator–prey pairs, but prey must often contend with multiple predators in natural environments. Hence, a better understanding of the evolutionary and ecological significance of phenotypic plasticity requires experiments that examine how multiple predators shape prey trait plasticity.

Here, using a simple food chain consisting of a top predator (dragonfly larvae,Aeshna nigroflava), an intermediate predator (salamander larvae,Hynobius retardatus), and frog (Rana pirica) tadpoles as prey, we show that the presence of dragonfly risk cues substantially modifies the intensity of antagonistic morphological plasticity in both amphibians. In the absence of dragonflies, tadpoles produced bulgier bodies in response to salamanders, and salamanders responded to this defense by enlarging their gape size. However, in the presence of dragonfly risk cues, the expression of both antagonistic traits was significantly reduced because tadpoles and salamanders produced phenotypes that are more effective against dragonfly predators. Thus, the reduced antagonism likely emerged, in part, because the benefits of antagonistic trait expression were outweighed by the potential cost of increased vulnerability to dragonfly predation. In addition, our results suggest that when all three species were present, salamander activity levels, which influence the amount of signals required to induce antagonistic traits, were more strongly affected by dragonfly risk cues than were tadpole activity levels. This species‐specific difference in activity levels was likely responsible for the reduced tadpole mortality caused by salamanders in the presence vs. absence of dragonfly risk cues. Hence, dragonflies had a positive trait‐mediated indirect effect on tadpoles by modifying both the morphological and behavioral traits of salamanders.
Shift in cytotype frequency and niche space in the invasive plantCentaurea maculosa
Authors: Treier Urs A. , Broennimann Olivier , Normand Signe , Guisan Antoine , Schaffner Urs , Steinger Thomas , Müller-Schärer Heinz
Published: May 2009

Polyploidy is often assumed to increase the spread and thus the success of alien plant species, but few empirical studies exist. We tested this hypothesis withCentaurea maculosaLam., a species native to Europe and introduced into North America approximately 120 years ago where it became highly invasive. We analyzed the ploidy level of more than 2000 plants from 93 native and 48 invasiveC. maculosapopulations and found a pronounced shift in the relative frequency of diploid and tetraploid cytotypes. In Europe diploid populations occur in higher frequencies than tetraploids and only four populations had both cytotypes, while in North America diploid plants were found in only one mixed population and thus tetraploids clearly dominated. Our results showed a pronounced shift in the climatic niche between tetraploid populations in the native and introduced range toward drier climate in North America and a similar albeit smaller shift between diploids and tetraploids in the native range. The field data indicate that diploids have a predominately monocarpic life cycle, while tetraploids are often polycarpic. Additionally, the polycarpic life‐form seems to be more prevalent among tetraploids in the introduced range than among tetraploids in the native range. Our study suggests that both ploidy types ofC. maculosawere introduced into North America, but tetraploids became the dominant cytotype with invasion. We suggest that the invasive success ofC. maculosais partly due to preadaptation of the tetraploid cytotype in Europe to drier climate and possibly further adaptation to these conditions in the introduced range. The potential for earlier and longer seed production associated with the polycarpic life cycle constitutes an additional factor that may have led to the dominance of tetraploids over diploids in the introduced range.
Complex interactions among temporal variables affect the plasticity of clutch size in a multi‐brooded bird
Authors: Westneat David F. , Stewart Ian R. K. , Hatch Margret I.
Published: May 2009

Phenotypic plasticity is a widespread phenomenon and may have important influences on evolutionary processes. Multidimensional plasticity, in which multiple environmental variables affect a phenotype, is especially interesting if there are interactions among these variables. We used a long‐term data set from House Sparrows (Passer domesticus), a multi‐brooded passerine bird, to test several predictions from life‐history theory regarding the shape of optimal reaction norms for clutch size. The best‐fit model for variation in clutch size included three temporal variables (the order of attempt within a season, the date of those attempts, and the age of the female). Clutch size was also sensitive to the quadratics of date and female age, both of which had negative coefficients. Finally, we found that the relationship between date and clutch size became more negative as attempt order increased. These results suggest that female sparrows have a multidimensional reaction norm for clutch size that matches predictions of life‐history theory but also implicates more complexity than can be captured by any single model. Analysis of the sources of variation in reaction norm height and slope was complicated by the additional environmental dimensions. We found significant individual variation in mean clutch size in all analyses, indicating that individuals differed in the height of their clutch size reaction norm. By contrast, we found no evidence of significant individual heterogeneity in the slopes of several dimensions. We assess the possible mechanisms producing this reaction norm and discuss their implications for understanding complex plasticity.
Does Mandatory Audit Firm Rotation Enhance Auditor Independence? Evidence from Spain
Authors: Ruiz-Barbadillo Emiliano , Go´mez-Aguilar Nieves , Carrera Nieves
Published: May 2009

SUMMARY: In this study, we document evidence on the impact of mandatory rotation of audit firms on auditor independence using Spanish archival data. Rotation of audit firms every nine years was mandatory in Spain from 1988–1995. Although the rule was never enforced, the Spanish context provides a unique setting to examine the effects that mandatory audit firm rotation has on auditor behavior. We examine audit reports for a sample of financially stressed companies from 1991–2000 to compare audit reporting behavior in a regime with rotation (mandatory rotation period: 1991–1994) and one without rotation (post-mandatory rotation period: 1995–2000). We test two competing hypotheses concerning the impact of mandatory rotation on the likelihood of auditors' issuing going-concern modified audit opinions. We find no evidence to suggest that a mandatory rotation requirement is associated with a higher likelihood of issuing going-concern opinions. Our results suggest that auditors' incentives to protect their reputation have a positive impact on the likelihood of issuing going-concern opinions, while auditors' incentives to retain existing clients did not impact on their decisions in both the mandatory rotation and post-mandatory rotation periods. Overall, our results provide empirical support for the arguments put forward by opponents of mandatory rotation.
Audit Committee Financial Expertise, Litigation Risk, and Corporate Governance
Authors: Krishnan Jagan , Lee Jong Eun
Published: May 2009

SUMMARY: Recent debates on audit committee financial expertise have focused on “accounting” and “nonaccounting” financial experts. A significant proportion of firms do not appoint accounting financial experts (i.e., persons with specialized accounting/auditing experience) to their audit committees. We examine the determinants of firms' choice of the “audit committee financial experts” for a sample of Fortune 1000 firms. We test the relation between the demand for accounting financial experts (AFEs), potential litigation risk, and corporate governance. We find that firms with higher litigation risk are more likely to have AFEs on their audit committee. However, the association between litigation risk and the likelihood of appointing accounting financial experts occurs for firms with relatively strong governance but not for those with weak governance. Thus, our findings indicate that (1) companies with demand for accounting financial experts—measured by potential litigation risk—seem to be able to secure accounting financial experts, but (2) such benefits only accrue in the presence of otherwise strong corporate governance.
Improving Assessments of Another Auditor's Competence
Authors: Harding Noel , Trotman Ken T.
Published: May 2009

SUMMARY: Auditing standards require auditors to assess the competence of their colleagues. However, previous studies have shown that auditors' assessments of their colleagues' competence are inaccurate and overconfident, potentially leading to a reduction in audit effectiveness. In two related studies, we investigate both the process by which these assessments are made and a potential intervention aimed at improving these judgments. In study 1, we investigate the anchors used by senior auditors in assessing the competence of their subordinates and peers, and find that the anchors vary depending on the familiarity of the audit senior with their colleague. These findings inform study 2, which investigates the impact of different types of outcome feedback on auditors' assessments of another auditor's competence. We find that the effects of individual-specific feedback and average-group feedback will be contingent on the nature of the relationship between the assessor and assessee. Specifically, individual-specific outcome feedback is effective in reducing overconfidence when assessing the competence of a colleague with whom the assessor has previously worked, but not an unfamiliar colleague. When assessing the competence of an unfamiliar colleague, we find that average-group outcome feedback is effective in reducing overconfidence. Our results complement and extend earlier theory by showing that individuals, in assessing a colleague's competence, use anchors in addition to the competence of the assessor.