bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogenic Polyamines Affect Activity of Aminopeptidase B and Alanyl Aminopeptidase from Porcine Skeletal Muscle
Authors: FLORES MÓNICA , ARISTOY M‐CONCEPCIÓN , TOLDRÁ FIDEL
Published: August 2006

The effect of biogenic polyamines (agmatine, cadaverine, putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) on the activity of pork muscle aminopeptidase and alanyl aminopeptidase was investigated. Agmatine (5 mM) showed a powerful inhibitory effect for both enzymes (more than 50% inhibition). Cadaverine and less intensely putrescine showed similar inhibitory effects for both enzymes. All assayed polyamines inhibited activity of both aminopeptidases except spermine and spermidine which did not affect aminopeptidase B. Thus, one of these inhibitors could be used to avoid the interference of alanyl aminopeptidase when assaying aminopeptidase B in muscle extracts.
Hydrolysis of Milk Fat By Lipase in Solvent‐free Phospholipid Reverse Micellar Media
Authors: PATEL MAYANK T. , NAGARAJAN R. , KILARA ARUN
Published: August 2006

Butterfat was hydrolyzed with lipases contained in lecithin reverse micelles. The influence of pH, temperature, molar ratio of surfactant to water (R) and surfactant concentration on the hydrolytic reaction indicated linear, quadratic, and interactive effects for reaction systems mediated byR. javanicusandC. rugosalipases. The initial reaction rate was dependent on reaction parameters; however, the degree of hydrolysis was independent of pH. Both enzymes exhibited high thermal stability. The content and composition of milk fat hydrolysates prepared byR. javanicuslipase were most influenced by reaction temperature and R. The optimum conditions for production of free fatty acids, monoacyl‐glycerols, diacylglycerols and specific regio‐isomers were defined.
Composition and Microscopy of Reformulated Creams from Reduced‐Cholesterol Butteroil
Authors: ELLING J.L. , DUNCAN S.E. , KEENAN T.W. , EIGEL W.N. , BOLING J.
Published: August 2006

A reduced‐cholesterol butteroil was emulsified with different milk‐derived components into three 20% milk fat cream formulations. Electron microscopy showed an oil‐in‐water emulsion typical of milk lipid globules in natural cream. Heat treatment and homogenization had no effect on cream composition (p > 0.05). Homogenization pressure had no effect on amount of protein associated with lipid globules but more phospholipid was associated with the lipid globules at 13.6/3.4 MPa (p ≦ 0.05). Formulation had significant effects on cream composition and amount of protein and phospholipid associated with lipid globules. Cholesterol was reduced 65 to 76% lower than that of natural cream.
Haze Development in Aerobically or Anaerobically Produced Clarified Apple Juices
Authors: WALL KATHARINE M. , TAIT VALERIE M. , EASTWELL KENNETH C. , REID CAROL A. , BEVERIDGE THOMAS H.J.
Published: August 2006

Haze production in aerobically or anaerobically produced Red Delicious apple juice was assessed following heating, aeration, and protein addition. Stored aerobic juice produced haze in 6 wk, but anaerobic juice was haze‐free unless oxygen was introduced. Phenolic material was incorporated into haze in both systems. HPLC (detection at 420 nm) of concentrated juice and addition of 100 mg/L BSA suggested the presence in both juices of ‘reactive’ material which could complex and precipitate during storage. Phenolic compounds, heating, and especially oxidation during processing (and storage) appear to be major determinants of ‘haze potential’ in clarified apple juice.
Optimization of Sucrose Polyester Synthesis Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: SHIEH CHWEN‐JEN , KOEHLER PHILIP E. , AKOH CASIMIR C.
Published: August 2006

Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to evaluate the effects of synthetic variables such as reaction time (6–12 hr), temperature (130–150°C), and substrate molar ratio of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) of peanut oil to sucrose (10:1 to 14:1) on the % molar conversion to sucrose polyester, utilizing 10g of free sucrose as the reactant. Optimization of the synthetic reaction was performed by canonical analysis to derive the stationary point. Based on contour plots and canonical analysis, optimum conditions were: reaction time 11.5 hr, synthetic temperature 144°C, and substrate molar ratio 11.4:1. Predicted molar conversion was 43.39% (10g sucrose synthesized 29.4g sucrose polyester) at the optimum point. Experimental data indicated up to 48.4% yield based on theoretical % molar conversion.
Enzymatic and Autoxidation of Defatted Peanuts
Authors: DIVINO G.L. , KOEHLER P.E. , AKOH C.C.
Published: August 2006

Ground, blanched, raw, and roasted peanuts with varying oil contents were analyzed for oxidation products. Peroxide values (PV) of blanched, ground raw (BRAW) peanuts, demonstrating enzymatic oxidation, and heat‐treated rancid roasted peanuts (RRST), demonstrating autoxidation, exhibited decreases (p ≦ 0.05) with decreasing oil content. The Oxidative Stability Index (OSI) time at 110 °C increased (p < 0.05) with decrease in oil content of raw (BRAW) and roasted (BRST) ground peanuts. A higher OSI indicated more oxidative stability, thereby supporting the hypothesis of higher potential for autoxidation at higher oil contents. In addition, BRST exhibited a shorter OSI than BRAW, indicating slower autoxidation in BRAW. Roasted peanutty odor, burnt odor, and roasted peanutty flavor, rancid/oxidized flavor, and burnt flavor scores of rancid roasted peanuts decreased (p ≦ 0.05) with decreasing oil content.
Adsorption‐isotherm and Effect of Gum Blends on Viscosity and Microstructure of Oat Gum (β‐D‐Glucan)
Authors: NNANNA I.A. , DAWKINS N.L.
Published: August 2006

Interactions of oat β‐glucan/oat gum (OG) in binary mixtures with other gums [xanthan (XG), locust bean (LBG), and guar (GG)] were studied by viscometry at ratios (50/50, 60/40, and 80/20) and concentrations (0.5 and 0.75%). Physical structure changes due to interactions were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Equilibrium moisture contents (EMC) were observed at relative humidities (RH), 10.5%, 22%, 33%, 44%, 76% and 93%. Water and oil uptake were determined. Viscosity enhancement occurred in OG/LBG (50/50 and 60/40; 0.5%) and OG/XG (60/40; 0.5%) blends, suggesting synergism. Micrographs depicted microstructural homogeneity (single bulk phase) in OG/LBG and OG/XG blends. EMC of OG and GG were 26.1 and 31.6%, respectively, at 93% RH for 2 wk. LBG showed high mold growth at 93% RH. Uptake of water and oil by OG were 2.6 and 2.0 mL/g, respectively.
Minimal Processing and Modified Atmosphere Packaging Effects on Pigmentation of Pomegranate Seeds
Authors: GIL M.I. , ARTES F. , TOMAS‐BARBERAN F.A.
Published: August 2006

The influence of different washings, temperatures, and packagings on anthocyanins of minimally processed pomegranate seeds was evaluated. No differences were found in anthocyanin composition after washing with different solutions, although a slight decrease in pigments occurred. Storage in perforated polypropylene bags preserved pigments and a slight increase in most anthocyanins occurred. During storage in modified atmospheres, anthocyanins increased at 1°C, but decreased at 8 and 4°C. The delphinidin derivatives were the most sensitive while cyanidin and pelargonidin derivatives were stable and increased slightly. The 3,5‐diglucosides were more stable than 3‐glucosides. Compared with storage at 1°C for 7 days in perforated OPP bags, unperforated OPP bags maintained the pigments better. However, stored an additional 4 days at 4°C to simulate domestic storage, they were better preserved in perforated films.
Edible Coating Effects on Postharvest Quality of Green Bell Peppers
Authors: LERDTHANANGKUL SIRICHIT , KROCHTA JOHN M.
Published: August 2006

Green bell pepper fruits (Capsicum annuum L., cv. “Jupiter”) were coated with a mineral‐oil‐based coating or a cellulose‐based coating. Three different milk‐protein‐based edible coatings (whey protein isolate, sodium caseinate, and sodium caseinate beeswax emulsion) plasticized with glycerol were also tested. The effects of these coatings were followed by measurement of changes in respiration, internal gases, color, firmness, and water loss during storage at 10°C, 80–85% RH for 20 days. None reduced respiration or affected color. Only the mineral‐oil‐based coating significantly reduced moisture loss, thus maintaining fruit firmness and thereby prolonging fruit freshness.
Lactose Solubility and Crystal Growth as Affected by Mineral Impurities
Authors: BHARGAVA ARUN , JELEN PAVEL
Published: August 2006

Single crystal growth method was applied to determine lactose solubility, growth rate and morphology of lactose crystals grown in model lactose solutions containing various salts and in whey ultrafiltration (UF) permeate solutions. Salts either increased or decreased the lactose crystal growth rate, due to effects on lactose solubility. Addition of LiCl led to a maximum increase in growth rate and a maximum decrease in lactose solubility, while K2HPO4 had opposite effects. Growth rates of individual lactose crystals in whey UF permeate solutions were lower and lactose solubility higher than those in pure lactose solutions.
Partitioning of Printing Ink Solvents Between Cookie Ingredients and Air Before and After Baking
Authors: AN DUEK‐JUN , HALEK G.W.
Published: August 2006

Partitioning (Kp) of printing ink solvents was studied in individual ingredients of cookies with different fat and water content. Structure and moisture changes in ingredients during baking at 260°C for 10 min caused some changes of migration behavior. Kp of toluene and hexane in high fat samples generally remained unchanged but Kp of polar solvents ethyl acetate, isopropanol, and methyl ethyl ketone decreased with decreases in water. Increases in crystallinity diminished Kp values. The order of affinity could be predicted by Hildebrand solubility parameter (δ) value differences between ingredients and non‐polar solvents, but predictions for polar solvents were influenced by changes in water content.
Acid Removal from Sunflower Pectin Gel through Ethanol Washing
Authors: Shi X.Q. , CHANG K.C. , SCHWARZ J.G. , WIESENBORN D.
Published: August 2006

Sunflower heads remaining after seed removal is a potential source of low‐methoxyl pectin. After extraction and acid precipitation of pectin gel, aqueous ethanol solution was used to purify the pectin. Ethanol washing of nitric acid‐precipitated gel in a countercurrent process at 207°C removed acid. Concentration of nitric acid in the ethanol solvent varied depending on washing time, acid concentration in the gel, ethanol in washing solution, and ratio of gel to washing solution. Gel/solvent ratios of 1:2, 1:1.8, and 1:1.5 increased gel pH at the rate of 0.024, 0.022, and 0.018 pH units per min, respectively. Diffusion rate constants of nitric acid from the gel to washing solution were 5.281 × 10−2, 4.855 × 10−2, and 4.282 3 10−2 min−1, respectively. A cubic regression equation was developed to express the relationship between nitric acid concentrations and pH.
Calcium Fortification of Rice: Distribution and Retention
Authors: HETTIARACHCHY N.S. , GNANASAMBANDAM R. , LEE M.H.
Published: August 2006

A method of calcium fortification of milled rice was developed and tests conducted to investigate calcium distribution and retention. Milled rice (Karen variety) was soaked in 3.0% calcium lactate solution (CLS)(rice: CLS, 1.0:0.75 w/v) for 3 hr at room temperature followed by steaming 10 min at 0.68 atm, and drying to 10–11% moisture. Washing fortified rice resulted in calcium losses of ∼5%. Calcium fortified rice flour samples after dialysis, retained ∼60% of original calcium. Fortification process met U.S. standards for calcium‐fortified rice (110–220 mg/100g rice) and resulted in minimal washing losses.
Moisture Sorption Isotherms of Canola Meals, and Applications to Packaging
Authors: DIOSADY L.L. , RIZVI S.S.H. , CAI W. , JAGDEO D.J.
Published: August 2006

Moisture sorption isotherms were determined for defatted canola meal at 16, 22, and 34°C. The isotherms were fitted to the Guggenheim‐Anderson‐deBoer (GAB) sorption equation. This equation was then used to develop a packaging model that predicted the changes of moisture con‐tent of canola meal under stated environmental and packaging conditions. The model was tested using Melinex 813 (12 μm) and Propafilm C (28 μm) packaging films at 86% relative humidity and 23°C. The GAB equation provided a good fit to experimental data (<3% RMS). The monolayer moisture content of the meal was 9.5%. The enthalpy of sorption of the monolayer at 22°C was 84.61 KJ/mol. The model predicted the time required by packaged canola to attain a selected moisture content ± 0.5 days.
Cooking Temperature of Turkey Ham Affects Lactate Dehydrogenase, Serum Albumin and Immunoglobulin G as Determined by ELISA
Authors: SMITH D.M. , DESROCHER L.D. , BOOREN A.M. , WANG C.H. , ABOUZIED M.M. , PESTKA J.J. , VEERAMUTHU G.J.
Published: August 2006

Protein indicators were identified and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were developed for verifying endpoint processing temperatures (EPT) of turkey ham. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), immunoglobulin G (IgG), and turkey serum albumin (TSA) were identified by electrophoresis, Western blotting or enzyme assays as potential markers in turkey ham processed between 66.9 and 73.9°C. TSA and IgG were quantified using indirect competitive ELISAs, and LDH was quantified by a sandwich ELISA. The concentration of all indicators decreased as processing temperatures were increased. At 73.8°C, 9.3 μg TSA and, 0.5 μg LDH or TSA were detected/g meat. At the USDA required EPT of 68.3°C, residual concentrations of 1221 ng IgG/g meat, 330 ng LDH/g meat and 51,852 ng TSA/g meat were detected.
Total Process Lethality as Related to Residual Catalase Activity in Cooked Chicken Breast
Authors: LIU F. , ANG C.Y.W. , TOLEDO R.T. , HUANG Y.W.
Published: August 2006

We investigated the effects of total process lethality on the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, presumably due to catalase activity. Ground chicken breast meat was heated to various end‐point temperatures (EPTs) in 10 heating treatments varying heating time and rate. Within each treatment, residual catalase activity was affected by the product EPT. However, samples heated to the same EPT under different treatments retained less enzymatic activity as heating time increased. Total process lethality was calculated to assess the severity of heating at each EPT under each heating condition. Residual enzymatic activity was directly related to the total lethality.
Isolation and Characterization of Bacteria Resistant to the Antimicrobial Activity of Garlic
Authors: KYUNG KYU HANG , PARK KYUNG SUK , KIM YOUN SOON
Published: August 2006

Twenty‐six bacteria were isolated from garlic (Allium sativum) and characterized. They all were identified as Leuconostoc mesenteroides subsp. mesenteroides. All the isolates were resistant to antimicrobial activity of garlic and grew or survived in TSB with 10% garlic extract while other bacteria and yeasts from our laboratory collection were killed when 1–2% garlic extract was in the culture media. Garlic isolates were also more tolerant than common laboratory strains to the toxic effect of methyl methanethiosulfonate, a thiol inhibitor similar to allicin. This is the first report of the isolation of naturally occurring bacteria resistant to antimicrobial activity of garlic.
Ascorbic acid levels of aqueous humor of dogs after experimental phacoemulsification
Authors: De Biaggi Christianni P. , Barros Paulo S. M. , Silva Vanessa V. , Brooks Dennis E. , Barros Silvia B. M.
Published: August 2006

Phacoemulsification has been successfully employed in humans and animals for lens extraction. This ultrasonic extracapsular surgical technique induces hydroxyl radical formation in the anterior chamber, which accumulates despite irrigation and aspiration. In this paper we determined the total antioxidant status of aqueous humor after phacoemulsification by measuring aqueous humor ascorbic acid levels. Mixed‐breed dogs (n = 11; weighing about 10 kg) with normal eyes as determined by slit‐lamp biomicroscopy, applanation tonometry, and indirect ophthalmoscopy had phacoemulsification performed in one eye with the other eye used as a control. Samples of aqueous humor were obtained by anterior chamber paracentesis before surgery and at days 1, 2, 3, 7, and 15 after surgery. Total aqueous humor antioxidant status was inferred from the capacity of aqueous humor to inhibit free radical generation by 2,2‐azobis (2‐amidopropane) chlorine. Ascorbic acid concentrations were measured by high‐pressure liquid chromatography with UV detection. Protein content was determined with the biuret reagent. Statistical analysis was performed by anova followed by the paired t‐test. Total antioxidant capacity was reduced from 48 to 27 min during the first 24 h with a gradual increase thereafter, remaining statistically lower than the control eye until 7 days postoperatively. Reduced levels of ascorbic acid followed this reduction in antioxidant capacity (from 211 to 99 µm after 24 h), remaining lower than the control eye until 15 days postoperatively. Protein concentration in aqueous humor increased from 0.62 mg/mL to 30.8 mg/mL 24 h after surgery, remaining statistically lower than the control eye until 15 days postoperatively. Paracentesis alone did not significantly alter the parameters measured. These results indicate that after phacoemulsification, the aqueous humor ascorbic acid levels and antioxidant defenses in aqueous humor are reduced, indirectly corroborating free radical production in the anterior chamber as a result of phacoemulsification. The inflammatory process consequent to the surgical procedure demonstrated by increased protein content in aqueous humor can also contribute to free radical production and ascorbic acid consumption.
Prevalence of feline cataract: results of a cross‐sectional study of 2000 normal animals, 50 cats with diabetes and one hundred cats following dehydrational crises
Authors: Williams David L. , Fred Heath M.
Published: August 2006

Objective  In this study 2000 normal cats, 50 cats with diabetes and 100 cats with a history of dehydrational crises were examined ophthalmoscopically to determine presence of cataract.

Materials and methods  The cats examined were predominantly from veterinary hospital populations but also from re‐homing facilities and breeding catteries. Prevalence of cataract was determined for different age groups (year cohorts). The age at which prevalence of cataract was 50% (C50) was determined indirectly from a fitted prevalence curve as previously described. C50 was determined for animals of different genders and different breeds as well as for those with diabetes and histories of dehydrational episodes related to chronic renal failure, chronic vomiting or chronic diarrhea.

Results  The mean ± standard deviation of C50 for all normal cats in the study was 12.7 ± 3.4 years. All cats over 17.5 years were affected by some degree of lens opacity. C50 for cats with diabetes was 5.6 ± 1.9 years (significantly different from normal cats at P < 0.0001). For cats with a history of dehydrational crises C50 was 9.9 ± 2.5 (difference from normal cats nearing statistical significance at P = 0.06).

Conclusion  The study yields novel findings regarding the prevalence of age‐related cataract in normal cats together with cats with diabetes and history of previous dehydrational episodes in which prevalence of cataract is increased.
Protecting Drinking Water Quality Against Contamination by Pesticides: An Alternative Regulatory Framework
Authors: Faure Michael G. , Lefevere Jürgen GJ.
Published: August 2006

Samenvatting

In onderstaand artikel wordt de huidige regulering van de vervuillng van drinkwater door pesticiden geanalyseerd. Deze regulering is een samenspel tussen EG‐en nationale instrumenten. Aan de hand van de casus van drinkwatervervuiling in Italië door de pesticide atrazine wordt aangetoond dat de huidige regulering niet functioneert. Met name het Italiaans verbod op het gebruik van de pesticide verschuift enkel het vervuilingsprobleem. De auteurs proberen middels een economische analyse te komen tot een alternatief voorstel voor regulering van het pesticidenprobleem. Aan de basis van dit voorstel liggen optimaal gedifferentieerde standaarden en een juist samenspel tussen Europese en nationale regelgeving. Het artikel geeft hiermee een voorstel voor een efficiënte en effectieve oplossing van het probleem van de vervuiling van drinkwater door pesticiden.
Water Use and Development in Arid Regions: Environment, Economic Development and Water Resource Politics and Policy
Authors: Allan J.A.
Published: August 2006

Water resource allocation and management options differ greatly according to the diversity and the strength of an economy. They also differ with respect to trends in the acceptance of principles of environmental sustainability. Diverse and strong economies have options which are not available to economies which lack diversity and are heavily dependent on agricultural, often irrigated, production and livelihoods. This article will illustrate this with a case study, from the Middle East and North Africa, which shows that, within a period of three decades, an economy can move from total commitment to water security to one in which policies and practice on the allocation and use of water are based on principles of allocative and productive efficiency as well as environmental sustainability. It is concluded that those negotiating for water, whether the negotiations are legally principled or politically pragmatic, should be negotiating to gain flows of economic resources which enable sound livelihoods. From such flows come the options to maximize the social and economic returns to water and other inputs.

The author recognizes that the ideas presented here will take a decade or more to become widely accepted by those operating in real political economies. It is suggested, however, that those attempting to press the utility of legal principles and instruments should take into account the dynamic nature of actual political economies. They should also contribute to the development of legal regimes which promote the appreciation of the social and economic value of water and especially of‘virtual water’to national and regional economies. They should not devise principles and rules for abstract hydrologies.

Water for us is life itself. It is food for the people ‐ and not food alone. Without large scale irrigation projects we shall not achieve high productivity, balancing the economy or economic independence. For without irrigation we shall not produce a wealthy agriculture … we shall not be a people rooted in the land, secure in its existence and stable in its character.

Prime Minister Moshe Sharett, 19521

Ideas on food security and self‐sufficiency are of the 1950s and 1960s, not of today.

Avram Katz‐Oz, Former Minister of Agriculture2
The Convention on Nuclear Safety of 1994
Authors: Reyners Patrick
Published: August 2006

The negotiation of the Convention on Nuclear Safety (the Convention) which began in December 1991 within the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), was concluded by a Diplomatic Conference in Vienna in June 1994. The Convention was formally opened for signature on 20 September 1994 in conjunction with the annual General Conference of the IAEA. Today, 63 states have signed the Convention and 19 have ratified or accepted it. Out of these 19 countries, 14 are currently operating nuclear power plants.1 It is hoped that the Convention will come into force this year. This article analyzes its scope and content.
PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY IN SOUTHEAST ASIA: PAST THEMES, CURRENT STATUS AND FUTURE TRENDS
Authors: Gupta Avijit , Wong P.P.
Published: August 2006

Our knowledge regarding the physical geography of Southeast Asia is incomplete to a surprising extent. This paper reviews the past research, describes the ongoing work, and attempts to identify the future trends. Coverage of such a large area, even for the last 25 years, requires study of publications in several languages and coping with literature which is not easily available. Therefore certain topics. which are prominent in current research and likely to remain so in the future were chosen and reviewed in detail. Such topics include studies related to active plate margin features; the Pleistocene in Southeast Asia; erosion and sedimentation rates; rainforest; river systems; karst in Southeast Asia; coastal geomorphology; and the urban environment.

Environmental studies are rapidly gaining importance chiefly because of (a) the destruction of the natural vegetation and the associated loss of biodiversity and (b) the growing problems due to accelerated erosion and sedimentation This trend is likely to continue with accelerated destruction of forests, development of coastal areas, and urbanization of the landscape The direction of research in physical geography of Southeast Asia has been determined by a combination of individual research interest, governmental priorities, and international expectations
FORTY YEARS OF HUMAN GEOGRAPHY IN THE JOURNAL
Authors: Raguraman K. , Huang Shirlena
Published: August 2006

This paper reviews the articles published on human geography in the Journal since its inception, and focuses on the contributions made in the major fields of research. In the earlier years of the Journal, the themes of tropical agriculture, population and settlement geography, and historical geography were particularly strong, as was a concern with human‐environment relationships. Over the years, articles on urban and regional planning, transport and communications, tourism and recreation, and in social geography were also published, reflecting the increasing spread of themes covered. One of the most significant dimensions of change in the Journal has been a shift from a descriptive orientation of the articles to one emphasizing theory development and evaluation.
FORTY YEARS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY IN THE JOURNAL
Authors: Wong P.P. , Gupta Avijit
Published: August 2006

Up to June 1993, 207 articles on physical geography have been published in the Malayan Journal of Tropical Geography (MJTG) (1953–57), Journal of Tropical Geography (JTG) (1958–79) and the Singapore Journal of Tropical Geography (SJTG) (1980–93). These articles are examined initially in terms of their sub‐fields (Biogeography, Climatology, Geomorphology, Hydrology, and Soils), area of focus (the tropics, Africa, America, East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia excluding Malaysia and Singapore, Malaysia, Singapore, and Southwest Pacific) and the area of origin of the authors. The more significant papers in the sub‐fields are indicated. Various factors influencing the contributions to the Journal and some insights on the contributions of local staff (Singapore and Malaysia) are also given. The significance of the Journal as an avenue for local and foreign authors and for papers on physical geography in the tropics is briefly evaluated.
COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENTAL KNOWLEDGE AND LAND RESOURCE SURVEYS IN SWAZILAND
Authors: Osunade M.A. Adewole
Published: August 2006

This paper argues for the incorporation of community environmental knowledge systems in modem land resource surveys. Such surveys, usually carried out by specialists from outside traditional communities, oftem do not incorporate the communities’ concepts and knowledge which modulate land use practices. They are therefore not helpful to the small farmers who are the primary land users.

Recent studies have confirmed the viability of indigenous knowledge systems. In Swaziland, the farmers’ concepts of soil and slope unit systems have been validated and are found to be similar to the modem survey concepts of “soil series” and “land slope”. They have also employed other land attributes (such as animal life and vegetation elements) as indicators of land quality. The time has come when land resource surveys must take account of such indigenous knowledge systems so that the goals of improved land management and increased production may be achieved.
FALLOW AND FERTILITY UNDER SUBSISTENCE CULTIVATION IN THE PAPUA NEW GUINEA HIGHLANDS: I. FALLOW SUCCESSIONS
Authors: Sillitoe Paul
Published: August 2006

The Wola people of Nipa District in the Southern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea show little interest in attempting to manipulate the fallow vegetation that colonises their garden sites when they cease to cultivate them, although they are intimately aware of the composition of different successions. Their disinterest signals an interesting farming regime, one in which people cultivate some land semi‐permanently under non‐perennial crops within the broad context of a swidden regime. This paper reports on the general sequence in which plants recolonise cleared sites, both according to locally identified stages and the results of a survey of fallow vegetation on sites uncultivated for different periods of time. The attitudes of local people to various regrowth species are also discussed in the context of fallow management. One species, the casuarina, emerges as pre‐eminent and its effect on fallow soil recuperation is investigated.
VARIATION OF SOIL CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OVER NIGERIAN SAVANNA
Authors: Jaiyeoba I.A.
Published: August 2006

An analysis of relationships between selected soil chemical properties and parameters of parent material, climate and relief was undertaken for the savanna of north central Nigeria. Step by step examination of individual properties and the environmental parameters reveals numerous invariably disparate relationships often explicable in terms of local conditions. However, an analysis of covariance involving all variables shows that variations in base elements and cation exchange capacity are more strongly related to lithology than climatic or relief parameters. Soil pH and base saturation percentage, on the other hand, are influenced more by rainfall than parent material, altitude and slope position. Temperature and slope gradient are relatively unimportant in the variability of all soil properties. On the whole, the soil properties show significantly greater values over basalt, shale and alluvium than gneiss, schist and colluvium which in turn show greater values than sandstone, granite, granite gneiss, aeolian and ironpan‐rich deposits. Exchangeable cations and cation exchange capacity increase with an increase in rainfall, altitude and downslope position while pH and base saturation per cent show a decreasing trend.
LABOUR AND EMPLOYMENT UNDER THE “NIC” MODEL OF DEVELOPMENT: RECENT EVIDENCE FROM MAURITIUS
Authors: Pandit Kavita
Published: August 2006

The export‐based development strategies of the Newly Industrialising Countries (NICs) of East Asia, associated with high labour absorption in manufacturing, low unemployment rates, and rising skill levels, are often suggested as a model for other developing countries. The paper examines labour and employment trends from 1963 to 1988 in Mauritius, a country that explicitly adopted the NIC model in the early seventies. The trends show a number of similarities to NIC labour and employment patterns. The gains made since 1970, ironically, present constraints to sustaining economic development based on labour intensive production. Mauritius faces unique opportunities and challenges as it begins to make the shift to capital intensive manufacturing and service activities, the final step to NIC status.
TRACER AND DARCY‐BASED IDENTIFICATION OF SUBSURFACE FLOW, BUKIT TIMAH FOREST, SINGAPORE
Authors: Sherlock M.D. , Chappell Nick , Greer Tony
Published: August 2006

The spatial distribution of soil hydrological properties and associated flow pathways within a single 0.01 to 10 km2 catchment are usually poorly defined by typical programmes of point‐scale measurements. This is due not only to “measurement uncertainty” caused by instrument error and inadequate spatial sampling but also to “conceptual uncertainty” resulting from a deficiency in the Darcy‐Buckingham‐Richards description of subsurface flow. This study examines these two sources of uncertainty in the identification of subsurface flow beneath the Bukit Timah forest, Singapore. The two distinct approaches of water‐tracing and Darcy‐Buckingham calculations are compared. Flow estimates resulting from quasi‐steady Darcy‐Buckingham calculations were found to be very sensitive to the magnitude and pattern of the saturated hydraulic conductivity, which itself was sensitive to the permeametry technique used. The use of a Hydro‐Physics ring permeameter in the estimation of subsurface flows gives rates that are far greater than the mean propagation rates of tagged water though the approach identifies the relative difference between the behaviour of the two slopes studied. Whilst the lumped differences between the two tropical slopes may be identified with the Darcy method, the poor correlation with the absolute velocity and direction of the tracer plume means that catchment or even slope scale simulation using parameters of the Darcy‐Buckingham‐Richards equation will be highly uncertain.
BEYOND BEAN COUNTING AND WHALE TALES
Authors: Le Boeuf Burney J. , Würsig Bernd
Published: August 2006

Abstract

Three developments have implications for the future study of marine mammal behavior: 1) The number and affiliation of researchers have increased from a few individuals representing the interests of government or industry to many people conducting studies from a variety of points of view; 2) The interpretation of natural selection's operation on social behavior and life history patterns has shifted from emphasizing group to individual benefits; and 3) The passage of the Marine Mammal Protection Act has committed the United States to manage, research and protect marine mammal populations. Despite negative aspects of each development, the overall effect on marine mammal research will be positive. The combination of these changes and the interaction and collaboration of researchers with diverse orientations will spur new and varied research efforts and lead to a deeper understanding of marine mammals.
THE BREEDING CYCLE OF THE SOUTHERN SEA LION, OTARIA BYRONIA
Authors: Campagna Claudio
Published: August 2006

Abstract

Daily counts of Southern sea lions (Otaria byronia) made at Punta Norte, Argentina, during four consecutive breeding seasons (1980–1984) yielded similar results in the time of the reproductive events. Males and females began to arrive during the second week of December. Males reached peak numbers (100–110) between 15 and 21 January. Females reached maximum numbers (300–350) at the end of January. About 380–430 pups were born between December 20 and February 2, and 70–80 percent of births occurred between 10 and 25 January. Copulations peaked during the third week of January. The sex ratio of adult males to adult females at peak season fluctuated from 1:3.7 to 1:4.2. By the first week of February, coinciding with the maximum number of young males (25–50), 90 percent of the adult males had abandoned the area and the number of females fluctuated greatly. Since 1980 the number of females and pups has shown a slight increase, particularly during the 1983–1984 breeding season.
POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS AND MIGRATION OF SUMMER AND LATE‐SEASON HUMPBACK WHALES (MEGAPTERA NOVAEANGLIAE) IN SOUTHEASTERN ALASKA
Authors: Baker C. Scott , Herman Louis M. , Perry Anjanette , Lawton William S. , Straley Janice M. , Straley John H.
Published: August 2006

Abstract

A total of 326 humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) were individually identified in southeastern Alaska during five summer seasons (July to September) and four late seasons (November to February) spanning the years 1979 to 1983. Peak numbers of whales were found late in August or early in September. Whales arrived 1–2 wk later in 1982 than in 1981. Whales sighted in both the summer and late seasons of 1981 and 1982 remained about 3.7 mo and one whale remained for at least 4.9 mo. Humpback whales from southeastern Alaska wintered in Hawaiian or Mexican waters, but generally did not travel to other feeding regions. The most rapid migratory transit between Hawaii and southeastern Alaska was 79 d. Based on mark‐recapture analyses of the photographic data, we estimate a population of 270–372 whales in the southeastern Alaska feeding herd.
SEXUAL DIMORPHISM IN SPOTTED DOLPHINS (STENELLA ATTENUATA) IN THE EASTERN TROPICAL PACIFIC OCEAN
Authors: Schnell Gary D. , Douglas Michael E. , Hough Daniel J.
Published: August 2006

We analyzed 4 meristic and 32 morphometric cranial traits of 612 adult specimens of spotted dolphins (Stenella attenuata) from the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean for sexual dimorphism. Eleven 5″ latitude/longitude blocks with five or more of each sex were assessed with a two‐way ANOVA for sex and geographic differences. Interaction between these two factors was found for six measurements, suggesting that the degree of sexual dimorphism varies geographically for a few characters (although in no discernible geographic pattern). Sexual dimorphism was demonstrated for 23 of the 36 characters, with differences ranging from 0.00 to 5.88 percent. Females characteristically had a longer rostrum, while males generally had larger skulls overall. In terms of number of characters, the extent of sexual dimorphism demonstrated for skulls of spotted dolphins goes considerably beyond that shown for any other small delphine. A discriminant function involving a combination of 10 characters enabled us to identify correctly the sex of more than 75 percent of the specimens. A procedure for correcting specimen measurements is outlined that would enable an investigator to combine male and female specimens in geographic variation studies. A term (zwitter) is proposed for use when referring to specimens where measurements have been corrected to take into account differences between the sexes.
ECOLOGY, BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL ORGANIZATION OF THE BOTTLENOSE DOLPHIN: A REVIEW
Authors: Shane Susan H. , Wells Randall S. , Würsig Bernd
Published: August 2006

Abstract

The authors review the literature on bottlenose dolphin ecology, behavior and social organization, focusing on data collected on free‐ranging animals. Most bottlenose dolphins studied to date have had definable home ranges, and behavioral, morphological and biochemical information indicates discrete stocks in some areas. Bottlenose dolphins appear to form relatively permanent social groups based on sex and age. Mother—calf bonds are long‐lasting. Movement patterns are extremely variable from location to location but are relatively predictable at any given site. Food resources are one of the most important factors affecting movements. Bottlenose dolphin behavior is very flexible, and these dolphins are generally active day and night. Feeding peaks in the morning and afternoon have been observed at several sites. Social behavior is an important component of daily activities. Sharks are the most significant predator on bottlenose dolphins in most areas, but captive and wild studies show that dolphins and sharks frequently live in harmony as well. Human activities may be helpful, harmful or neutral to bottlenose dolphins, but interactions with humans are frequent for these coastal cetaceans.
WHALE REACTIONS TO HUMAN ACTIVITIES IN CAPE COD WATERS
Authors: Watkins William A.
Published: August 2006

Abstract

A review of our whale observations of more than 25 years indicated that each of the species commonly observed within 35 km of Cape Cod reacted differently to stimuli from human activities, and that these responses have gradually changed with time. Over the years of exposure to ships, for example, minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) have changed from frequent positive interest to generally uninterested reactions, finback whales (B. physalus) have changed from mostly negative to uninterested reactions, right whales (Eubalaena glacialis) have apparently continued the same variety of responses with little change, and humpbacks (Megaptera novaeangliae) have dramatically changed from mixed responses that were often negative to often strongly positive reactions. These reactions appeared to result mostly from three types of stimuli: primarily underwater sound, then light reflectivity, and tactile sensation. The whale reactions were related to their assessment of the stimuli as attractive, uninteresting or disturbing, their assessment of the movements of the sources of the stimuli relative to their own positions, and their assessment of the occurrence of stimuli as expected or unexpected. Whale reactions were modified by their previous experience and current activity: habituation often occurred rapidly, attention to other stimuli or preoccupation with other activities sometimes overcame their interest or wariness of stimuli, and inactivity seemed to allow whales to notice and react to stimuli that otherwise might have been ignored. The changes over time in the reactions of whales to stimuli from human activities were gradual and constantly varying with increased exposure to these activities.
THE OCULAR FUNDUS OF TWO CETACEANS
Authors: Dawson William W. , Schroeder J. Pete , Dawson J. French
Published: August 2006

We provided a water‐cornea interface to correct the usual aerial myopia encountered in fundus photography of marine mammal eyes. The 12 Tursiops eyes were consistent for vascular structure, optic papillae, dimensional components and tapetal coloration. Multiple photographs were assembled to produce one ocular fundus typical of Tursiops truncatus and one for Grampus griseus. The eyes have a vestigial hyaloid vessel and an optic disc („blind spot”) that occupies the center of the fundus. The disc is bounded in both species by a vascular structure that is continuous with a (retrobulbar) perineural organ called the ophthalmic rete. The vascular trees of the fundus do not suggest an area of specialization for high resolution. Both species exhibit total tapetalization. Tapetal spectral reflectance did not vary between Tursiops. There was, however, a difference between species in the short wavelength regions of the spectrum.
AUDIOMETRIC ASSESSMENT OF NORTHERN FUR SEALS, CALLORHINUS URSINUS
Authors: Moore Patrick W. B. , Schusterman Ronald J.
Published: August 2006

Abstract

Aerial and underwater audiograms for two young female northern fur seals (Callorhinus ursinus) and one young female California sea lion (Zalophus californianus) were obtained with the same procedure and apparatus. Callorhinus hears over a larger frequency range and is more sensitive to airborne sounds than Zalophus or any other pinniped thus far tested in the frequency range of 500 Hz to 32 kHz. Sensitivity of Callorhinus to waterborne pure tones, ranging from 2 to 28 kHz, is equal or superior to all other pinnipeds tested in this same frequency range. Like Zalophus, the upper frequency limit for underwater hearing (as defined by Masterton et al. 1969) in Callorhinus is about one‐half octave lower than the three phocid species thus far tested. Callorhinus' upper frequency limit in air is about 36 kHz and under water it is about 40 kHz. Comparison of air and water audiograms shows Callorhinus is no exception to previous behavioral findings demonstrating that the „pinniped ear” is more suitable for hearing in water than in air. Similar to Zalophus and Phoca vitulina, Callorhinus shows an anomalous hearing loss at 4 kHz in air. The basis for this insensitivity to airborne sounds at 4kHz and not at lower or higher frequencies is presumably caused by specialized middle ear mechanisms matching impedance for waterborne sounds. Critical ratio curves for Callorhinus are similarly shaped to ones obtained for humans but are shifted upwards in frequency. Compared to all other marine mammals thus far evaluated, the critical ratios for Callorhinus are the smallest yet reported.
RELATIVE ABUNDANCE, DISTRIBUTION AND INTER‐SPECIFIC RELATIONSHIP OF CETACEAN SCHOOLS IN THE EASTERN TROPICAL PACIFIC
Authors: Polacheck Tmom
Published: August 2006

Abstract

The relative abundance of the most common cetacean schools in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean for 1977–1980 are estimated based on encounter rates with tuna purse‐seiners. No temporal trends were apparent in the relative abundance estimates. The geographic distributions for eight different school types are described. Multivariate statistical techniques are used to investigate interrelations between species and relationships to parameters of the physical environment. The results suggest three major species groupings: (1) an inshore grouping of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncates), Risso's dolphin (Grampus griseus), pilot whales (Globicephala macrorhynchus) and, to a lesser extent, common dolphins (Delphinus delphis); (2) an offshore pelagic grouping of spotted and spinner dolphins (Stenella attenuate and S. longirostris); and (3) an association between pilot whales and common dolphins that overlaps the first grouping in inshore areas and also tends to be segregated from the second grouping. The results also suggest that relative densities of different school types are strongly related to physical environmental parameters, the most important being sea surface temperature, depth of the thermocline and thickness of the oxygen minimum layer.
REVISION OF THE SPOTTED DOLPHINS, STENELLA SPP.
Authors: Perrin W. F. , Mitchell E. D. , Mead J. G. , Caldwell D. K. , Caldwell M. C. , van Bree P. J. H. , Dawbin W. H.
Published: August 2006

Abstract

The taxonomy of the spotted dolphins has been confused. Two apparent species exist, one endemic to the Atlantic and the other pantropical. They have sharply different color patterns and non‐overlapping vertebral counts. However, the holotype specimens for most of the names that have been applied to the spotted dolphins (including S. attenuata, S. frontalis, S. plagiodon and others) are skulls only, with no information on coloration or number of vertebrae. The two species overlap in all skull characters; geographical variation in both is pronounced. We used a discriminant analysis based on tooth counts and three skull measurements (standardized to skull width) to identify the type specimens to the two species. We used other criteria for assignment of nominal species for which holotype specimens do not exist. We propose that Stenella frontalis (G. Cuv., 1829) be used for the Atlantic endemic species and Stenella attenuata (Gray, 1846) for the pantropical species and here redescribe the species. Proposed common names are Atlantic spotted dolphin and pantropical spotted dolphin. S. frontalis now includes Delphinus froenatus F. Cuv., 1829, D. doris Gray, 1846 and D. plagiodon Cope, 1866. S. attenuata (a nomen conservandum) includes D. velox G. Cuv., 1829, D. pseudodelphis Wiegmann, ≤ 1840, D. brevimanus Wagner, 1846, D. microbrachium Gray, 1850, D. albirostratus Peale, 1848, Steno capensis Gray, 1865, Clymene punctatus Gray, 1866, Steno consimilis Malm, 1871 and Prodelphinus graffmani Lönnberg, 1934. Unidentifiable to either of the two valid species are D. dubius G. Cuv., 1812, D. pernettensis de Blainville, 1817 (suppressed), D. malayanus Lesson, 1826 and D. Rappii Reichenbach, 1845; these must remain incertae sedis.
CORRECT AND INCORRECT USE OF RECRUITMENT RATES FOR MARINE MAMMALS
Authors: Taylor Mitchell , Carley J. Scott , Bunnell Fred L.
Published: August 2006

Abstract

Adults of long‐lived, birth‐pulse populations (e.g., many cetaceans, polar bears and walrus) may not breed every year because of parental care, long gestation periods or nutritional constraints. Estimates of adult annual recruitment rates for such populations are necessarily an oversimplification since these rates are applied to both breeding and non‐breeding females.

The weighted mean of age‐specific recruitment is insufficient for non‐stable age projections of multi‐annual populations beyond the first time interval. Restated, conventional or collapsed Leslie matrix and life‐table projections are not adequate for non‐stable age simulations of populations with multi‐annual reproduction cycles.

These difficulties may be avoided by employing a parameterization that accommodates a dynamic age structure and proportion of breeding females within a given age class. This parameterization is a true description of the multiple‐year reproduction schedule.

Examples, broadly mimicking the life history of polar bears, were used to identify potential qualitative errors that may occur from using overly simplified projection models.