bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The entirety of the meal: a designer's perspective
Authors: Watz Birgitta
Published: September 2010

Food alone does not create the entirety of the meal. Every meal has a message, communicates a feeling, to those who take part in it. This article is a deeper reflection on using art and visual communication in the creation of the entire meal experience. The first step towards this entirety is the mental vision of the meal – and – mentally processing visual data and visual patterns requires – training of the eye, hand and mind in drawing. This gives students the access to perception, visual data and visual communication, necessary to produce properly designed meal experience.

Composing the experience is a matter of balancing visual tools such as, points, lines, shapes, colours, proportions, movements, directions, light, sound and, orientation in the room and atmosphere, into an expressive and meaningful entirety of the meal. In other words, the meaning of the meal emerges from the interplay of activating and balancing forces. Educating students to the entirety of the meal, is accomplished by giving them examples, practice in handling pencils, brushes and other visual tools in different laboratory experiment as well as, exercises and lessons. A guide to visual principles and rules is also essential. When the components are brought together, complexity may arise in an interesting way. In other words, an understanding of visual processes gives students freedom to create the entirety of the meal in new and interesting ways.
Hospitality spaces, hospitable moments: consumer encounters and affective experiences in commercial settings
Authors: Lugosi Peter
Published: September 2010

This paper examines the production of hospitable experiences within consumer encounters in commercial hospitality spaces. It considers the different dimensions or forms of hospitality and distinguishes between the offer of food, drink, shelter and entertainment within commercial transactions, the offer of hospitality as a means of achieving social or political goals, and meta‐hospitality – temporary states of being that are different from the rational manifestations of hospitality. It is argued that meta‐hospitality is tied to communitesque moments – short‐lived emotional bonds that may be built or experienced through hospitality transactions. A case study is used to identify three factors that shape the development of communitesque experiences – the ecology in which it occurs, the participants' roles and their capabilities.
Authenticity and food experience – commercial and academic perspectives*
Authors: Beer Sean
Published: September 2010

This paper compares and contrasts commercial and academic perspectives on the nature of authenticity and the role it plays within the hospitality, tourism and leisure industries. The discussion commences by looking at the complex nature of the relationship between food and ourselves as consumers and then goes on to examine how society seeks to regulate the authenticity of food by using terms such as organic, protected and local. The paper examines some of the perspectives on object reality and a move to subsume the wide range of thought on this subject under a single, but very broad understanding, developed by Heidegger. The author challenges this view and concludes that our perceptions of authenticity involve an interaction between what we are considering (the thing), society (the others) and the individual that is contemplating this whole idea of authenticity (the self), particularly with reference to food.
The determinants of gastronomic tourists' satisfaction: a second‐order factor analysis
Authors: Correia Antónia , Moital Miguel , Da Costa Carlos Ferreira , Peres Rita
Published: September 2010

Despite the importance of the gastronomic experience for tourists' satisfaction/dissatisfaction, and hence for the competitiveness of tourist destinations, studies focusing on tourists' satisfaction with their gastronomic experience are virtually non‐existent. More importantly, researchers have not yet produced evidence to support a factor structure of gastronomy satisfaction. The purpose of this paper is, therefore, to investigate the presence of a single second‐order factor by developing and empirically validating a second‐order factor analysis model for measuring satisfaction of gastronomic tourists in Portugal. As theorized, satisfaction comprised distinct first‐order factors and a single second‐order factor. The results suggest that gastronomy satisfaction in a tourism setting is a multidimensional construct comprising three factors: ‘gastronomy’, ‘price and quality’ and ‘atmosphere’. Among these three first‐order factors, ‘gastronomy’ was the most important determinant of tourist satisfaction, followed by ‘price and quality’ and ‘atmosphere’.
Museum foodservice offers – experience design dimensions
Authors: McIntyre Charles
Published: September 2010

This study centred upon a redesign project by a museum and art gallery in the South Coast of England. The supposed ‘secondary’ museum/gallery provision of the café and/or restaurant, under study, was found to be a valuable integral element of the visit experience of such institutions, partly by providing ‘blank canvas’ and ‘resting’ space elements in support of central visit motivations. The design and mix of the space elements was found to be crucial in providing the complete desired visit experience of which cafés proved to be a significant part. Cafés – in their products, ambient design and service orientation – were found to be able to significantly contribute to essential visit experience dimensions, giving contrasting, catalytic, additional or synergistic benefits. According to the author's space typology matrix, cafés are one of the key elements that can significantly contribute to essential ‘cool’ space for museums and galleries if designed appropriately.
Introduction of a patient‐centred snack delivery system in a children's hospital increases patient satisfaction and decreases foodservice costs
Authors: White Melinda , Wilcox Judy , Watson Rebecca , Rogany Ayala , Meehan Lorissa
Published: September 2010

The aim of this article is to evaluate a new patient‐centred snack delivery system at a children's hospital, investigating patient satisfaction, cost outcomes and snack item popularity. Patient satisfaction was determined via surveys. Foodservice cost comparisons were made 6 months before and after the implementation of the snack trolley. Snack popularity was determined by recording, categorizing and ranking snacks distributed over this period. Patients/carers (75%) believed that the snack trolley service rated a four or above on a scale of 1 (not satisfied) to 5 (very satisfied). Foodservice cost savings of $AU3307 or 33.3% (P < 0.01) were observed over 6 months. Popular snacks were Arnott's Tiny Teddies [22.5% (n = 978) of the snacks distributed], followed closely by Arnott's Shapes (n = 818, 18.9%). In conclusion, a patient‐centred snack trolley in a children's hospital can increase patient satisfaction and reduce foodservice costs.
PETROLEUM GEOLOGY OF NORTHERN CENTRAL AMERICA
Authors: Bishop William F.
Published: September 2010

Major reserves of oil exist in the Reforma area of Tabasco and Chiapas states and the Campeche Shelf of SE Mexico in high‐energy, bank‐edge, reef‐derived or reef‐associated carbonate rocks, ranging in age from Late Jurassic to earliest Late Cretaceous. It is the conclusion of this study that the Reforma reservoir facies does not extend into W Guatemala. However, there the potential for major reserves in bank and lagoonal carbonates of similar age is considered excellent. A variety of structures, mostly resulting from salt tectonics, is present. Known reservoir rocks include fractured carbonates with secondary porosity resulting from solution and dolomitization, and limestones with primary intergranular porosity. An indigenous source is likely for the large quantitis of oil which have been tested at Rubelsanto. Seals, in the form of thick intervals of Cretaceous anhydrite and, in places, of Tertiary fine‐grained clastics, are abundant.

The area E of Rubelsanto may have considerable merit, particularly if detailed structural analysis indicates that similar salt‐tectonic features are present. The less deeply buried areas of Cretaceous carbonates are not highly regarded because: (1) salt is absent: (2) temperatures sufficient for maturation of hydrocarbons may be lacking: and (3) a considerable number of dry holes with no significant shows has been drilled. N Guatemala is somewhat attractive, because the proper combination of unmetamorphosed Paleozoic organic shale on basement highs, well‐developed Todos Santos sandstone reservoirs, and the overlying thick evaporite seal could trap sizable hydrocarbon accumulations. However, as degree of metamorphism decreases, presumably basinward, distance from source terrain for detritus increases and reservoirs may be inadequate.
SHELF AND SHELLOW BASIN OIL AS RELATED TO HOT‐DEEP ORIGIN OF PETROLEUM
Authors: Price Leigh
Published: September 2010

Oil and gas pools in shallow basins of on the shallow, stable shevles of deeper sedimentary basins appear to be exceptions to the model of a hot‐deep origin of petroleum. However, the oil in shallow basins is directly associated with faulting extending out of the deepest parts of the basin. Evidence exists that some of these shallow basins have been much hotter in the past either from igneous activity of from a higher geothermal gradient. Uplift and erosion may also have removed substantial thicknesses of sediments in some of these basins. Oil on the stable, shallow, shelvees of deep basins could originated in the deeper part of the basin and undergone long lateral migration to the traps where it is now found. Conduits for such migration could have been sandstones in delta‐distributary systems (E Oklahoma and Kansas), reef trends (Alberta, Canada), or regional porosity and permeability in sheet carbonates (Anadarko basin. W. Oklahoma and Kansas). The model discussed herein allows us to (1) predict which areas of the stable shelves of deep basins should produce hydrocarbons and which areas should not, (2) predict the type of hydrocarbon (gas or oil), (3) set the limit of lateral updip migration, of hydrocarbons within any one formation in a basin, and (4) predict the downdip occurrence of hydrocarbons in the formation. The model should aslo help us determine which shallow cratonic basins should produce oil and which should not.
SEDIMENTATION, SEA‐LEVEL RISE AND TECTONICS AT THE TRIASSIC‐JURASSIC BOUNDARY (STATFJORD FORMATION), TAMPEN SPUR, NORTHERN NORTH SEA
Authors: Røe Signe‐Line , Steel Ron
Published: September 2010

Statfiord Formation reservoir rocks (Rhaetian‐Sinemurian) of the Tampen Spur area, Northern North Sea consist of coarse‐ and fine‐grained units in alternation, in a succession up to 300‐m thick in places. The formation is interpreted in terms of coastal fans and fan deltas on a low‐energy coastline.

Four broad facies associations are distinguished: subaerial fan and distal fan (partly subaqueous) deposits make up the coarse‐grained units, while the fine‐grained units consist of lagoon‐bay and floodbasin‐bay sediments. The deposits interpreted as subaerial fan‐plain and braided‐stream channels are dominantly cross‐stratified and plane‐bedded, coarse‐grained sandstones and fine‐conglomerates. The distal fan deposits, mainly massive or bioturbated finel/medium‐grained sandstones tend to occur at the base or top of the coarse units.

The deposits interpreted in terms of a lagoon‐bay setting consist of wave‐rippled, flaser/lenticular bedded siltstone and fine‐grained sandstone in a “background”of dark grey mudstone with occasional coal beds. This association is thought to have originated largely in front of the fans. The floodbasin‐bay association, consisting mainly of red‐and green‐coloured, massive and bioturbated mudstone and silty sandstone is believed to have accumulated in ephemeral floodbasin lakes or in the inner regions of coastal embayments, between fans. In addition to the main associations, there are also marine reworked sandstones at the top of the formation in some areas.

Sedimentation time trends within the coarse‐grained units reflect fan shifting and progradation. On the formation scale, the coarse units become coarser and more laterally‐continuous upward, whereas the fine units become dominated by the lagoon‐bay facies at younger stratigraphic levels.

It is argued that the former was a response mainly to tectonics, while eustatic sea level rise accounts for the increase in marine deposits through time. The marine sandstone at the top of the formation suggests a transition from a low energy, protected shoreline to a higher energy, more open one; a change that is related to basin enlargement and increased rate of relative sea level rise at the Statfjord‐Dunlin Formation transition.
POST‐DRILLING ANALYSIS OF THE NORTH FALKLAND BASIN—PART 2: PETROLEUM SYSTEM AND FUTURE PROSPECTS
Authors: Richards P. C. , Hillier B. V.
Published: September 2010

Six wells were drilled in the North Falkland Basin in 1998. Five of these wells recorded oil shows, and up to 32% gas was also recorded in mud returns to the rig floor. However, none of the wells encountered commercially viable petroleum accumulations.

The syn‐rift and early post‐rift intervals contain thick, lacustrine claystones with oil source potential as indicated by TOC values up to 7.5% and Rock‐Eva1 S2 values of up to 102 kg HC per tonne of rock. These source rocks were immature or only marginally mature in five of the wells but had attained maturity in one of them. Modelling suggests that the main source interval may well be within the peak oil generation window in deeper, undrilled parts of the basin. Calculations of the amount of oil expelled range up to 60 billion barrels.

Most of the wells tested a closely‐related set of plays in large structures asSociated with a sandstone interval near the top of the late syn‐rifi to early post‐rij? source‐rock succession. Post‐drilling geological modelling of the basin suggests that oil is unlikely to have migrated into this sandstone play at the localities tested, and that the wells consequently failed largely due to a lack of charge. Howevel; the play maintains exploration potential elsewhere. Other plays, particularly those stratigraphically asSociated with the base rather than the top of the source rock, may have a higher chance of exploration success.
MORBILLIVIRUS INFECTION IN BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS: EVIDENCE FOR RECURRENT EPIZOOTICS IN THE WESTERN ATLANTIC AND GULF OF MEXICO
Authors: Duignan Pádraig J. , House Carol , Odell Daniel K. , Wells Randall S. , Hansen Larry J. , Walsh Michael T. , Aubin David J. St. , Rima Bert K. , Geraci Joseph R.
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Morbillivirus infection is widespread among odontocetes of the western Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. Serologic evidence of infection in bottlenose dolphins,Tursiops truncatus, was first detected during an epizootic along the mid‐Atlantic coast in 1987. Here, we report recurrent epizootics in the coastal dolphin population since at least the early 1980s based on serological surveys and regional stranding frequencies. The first observed epizootic of this series occurred in the Indian and Banana Rivers in 1982 and was followed by others on the mid‐Atlantic coast in 1987–1988 and in the Gulf of Mexico between 1992 and 1994. This temporal pattern of infection is likely facilitated by the population size and its fragmentation into relatively discrete coastal communities. Introduction of morbillivirus into a community with a sufficient number of naive hosts may precipitate an epizootic, depending on the potential for transmission within the group. Propagation of an epizootic along the coast is probably determined by frequency of contact between adjacent communities and seasonal migrations.

Morbillivirus antibodies were also detected in serum from offshore bottlenose dolphins. The sero‐prevalence in the latter may be higher than in coastal dolphins because of their close association with enzootically infected pilot whales (Globicephalaspp.). Occasional contact between offshore and coastal dolphins may provide an epizootiologic link between pilot whales and coastal dolphin communities.
VARIABILITY IN ANTARCTIC FUR SEAL DIVE DATA: IMPLICATIONS FOR TDR STUDIES
Authors: Boveng Peter L. , Walker Brian G. , Bengtson John L.
Published: September 2010

Abstract

We analyzed 19 dive records obtained from female antarctic fur seals (Arctocephalas gazella) during three austral summer breeding seasons on Seal Island, Antarctica, to assess the extent of individual variation and the potential for using time‐depth recorder (TDR) statistics to detect annual changes in six measures of foraging behavior. We report the mean values and typical variability among individuals for dive duration, dive depth, proportion of time submerged, transit time, vertical distance dived, and diving intensity. Dive duration was the least variable and vertical distance dived was the most variable among individual seals. The results were used to estimate the sample sizes required to detect—with acceptable precision and power—differences in the six measures between sites, years, or species. Statistics that vary most among individuals require the largest sample sizes to reliably detect a given percentage difference between annual means. Interestingly, we also observed the most significant interannual differences in those same statistics. These results emphasize that specifying the magnitude of the (interannual, intersite or interspecific) difference that is biologically significant to the study population is an important, though sometimes difficult, component of TDR survey design.
DETERMINING PREGNANCY FROM BLUBBER IN THREE SPECIES OF DELPHINIDS
Authors: Kellar Nicholas M. , Trego Marisa L. , Marks Corina I. , Dizon Andrew E.
Published: September 2010

Abstract

We quantified progesterone in 110 blubber samples from dolphins of known reproductive status in order to test the accuracy of a method to determine pregnancy status in wild cetaceans. The samples were collected from fishery‐bycaught delphinids of three species (Delphinus delphis, Lissodelphis borealis, and Lagenorhynchus obliquidens). We ascertained that blubber progesterone concentrations could clearly distinguish pregnant D. delphis (range 132–415 ng/g, mean 261 ng/g) from non‐pregnant mature and immature ones (range 0.92–48.2 ng/g, mean 15.2 ng/g). We found similar dramatic differences in L. borealis and L. obliquidens. These results were insensitive to various blubber sampling depths and anatomical sampling locations on the body, suggesting relative homogeneity of progesterone levels throughout the blubber. However, no trend was found in blubber progesterone concentration with fetal length, indicating that although blubber progesterone appears to distinguish pregnancy status, it is unlikely to differentiate pregnancy stage. Based on the findings presented here we suggest that this method, when coupled with projectile biopsy procedures, can be used to assess the pregnancy status of free‐ranging cetaceans and thus provide a new tool to determine pregnancy rates of wild populations.
SEXUAL DIMORPHISM AND BODY SCARRING IN THE BOTO (AMAZON RIVER DOLPHIN) INIA GEOFFRENSIS
Authors: Martin A. R. , Da Silva V. M. F.
Published: September 2010

Abstract

Measurements and quantitative descriptions of a large sample of live adult botos (Inia geoffrensis) were obtained from the Mamirauá Reserve in the central Amazon. Males were on average 16% longer and weighed 55% more than females, demonstrating that this species is one of the most sexually dimorphic of all cetaceans for size. Males were also pinker than females, more heavily scarred by intraspecific tooth rakes, and had more life‐threatening injuries. Some larger males had areas of modified skin that may simply be scar tissue, but may also be a heritable characteristic used as a shield or weapon. As in sperm whales, sexual size dimorphism and male‐male aggression appear to be linked in botos, suggesting fierce competition for a resource—probably mating opportunities. The boto is unique among river dolphins in that males are larger than females. This distinction implies long evolutionary separation and fundamental differences in social behavior.
RISK OF EXTIRPATION OF STELLER SEA LIONS IN THE GULF OF ALASKA AND ALEUTIAN ISLANDS: A POPULATION VIABILITY ANALYSIS BASED ON ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESES FOR WHY SEA LIONS DECLINED IN WESTERN ALASKA
Authors: Winship Arliss J. , Trites Andrew W.
Published: September 2010

Abstract

We estimated the risk that the Steller sea lion will be extirpated in western Alaska using a population viability analysis (PVA) that combined simulations with statistically fitted models of historical population dynamics. Our analysis considered the roles that density‐dependent and density‐independent factors may have played in the past, and how they might influence future population dynamics. It also established functional relationships between population size, population growth rate and the risk of extinction under alternative hypotheses about population regulation and environmental variability. These functional relationships can be used to develop recovery criteria and guide research and management decisions. Life table parameters (e.g., birth and survival rates) operating during the population decline (1978–2002) were estimated by fitting simple age‐structured models to time‐series of pup and non‐pup counts from 33 rookeries (subpopulations). The PVA was carried out by projecting all 33 subpopulations into the future using these estimated site‐specific life tables (with associated uncertainties) and different assumptions about carrying capacities and the presence or absence of density‐dependent population regulation. Results suggest that the overall predicted risk of extirpation of Steller sea lions as a species in western Alaska was low in the next 100 yr under all scenarios explored. However, most subpopulations of Steller sea lions had high probabilities of going extinct within the next 100 yr if trends observed during the 1990s were to continue. Two clusters of contiguous subpopulations occurring in the Unimak Pass area in the western Gulf of Alaska/eastern Aleutian Islands and the Seguam–Adak region in the central Aleutian Islands had relatively lower risks of extinction. Risks of extinction for a number of subpopulations in the Gulf of Alaska were reduced if the increases observed since the late 1990s continue into the future. The risks of subpopulations going extinct were small when density‐dependent compensation in birth and survival rates was assumed, even when random stochasticity in these vital rates was introduced.
DECLINES IN HARBOR SEAL(PHOCA VITULINA)NUMBERS IN GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK, ALASKA, 1992–2002
Authors: Mathews Elizabeth A. , Pendleton Grey W.
Published: September 2010

Abstract 

Glacier Bay National Park had one of the largest breeding aggregations of harbor seals in Alaska, and it is functionally the only marine reserve for harbor seals in Alaska; yet, numbers of seals in the Bay are declining rapidly. Understanding why seals in Glacier Bay are declining may clarify their minimal habitat needs. We estimated population trends using models that controlled for environmental and observer‐related factors. In 1992, 6,200 seals were counted on icebergs in a tidewater glacial fjord and at terrestrial sites; by 2002 only 2,550 seals were counted at these same haul‐outs. Numbers of non‐pups in the glacial fjord declined by 6.6%/yr (−39%/8 yr) in June and by 9.6%/yr (−63%/11 yr) in August and at all other haul‐outs by 14.5%/yr (−75%/10 yr) during August. In the glacial fjord the number of pups remained steady from 1994 to 1999 and made up an increasing proportion of seals counted (5.4%/yr), and the proportion of pups peaked at 34%–36%. The rapid declines do not appear to be due to changes in seal behavior or redistribution. The declines reinforce genetic evidence that harbor seals in Glacier Bay are demographically isolated from other populations and indicate that current management stocks need to be redefined. Changes in Glacier Bay's ecosystem and population demographic data from the glacial fjord suggest that interspecific competition and predation are likely factors in the declines.
Are we analyzing speciation without prejudice?
Authors: Johannesson Kerstin
Published: September 2010

Physical isolation has long been the null hypothesis of speciation, with exceptional evidence required to suggest speciation with gene flow. Following recent persuasive theoretical support and strong empirical examples of nonallopatric speciation, one might expect a changed view. However, a review of 73 recent empirical studies shows that when allopatric speciation is suggested, a nonallopatric alternative is rarely considered, whereas the opposite is true in studies suggesting sympatric speciation, indicating a biased treatment of different speciation models. Although increasing support for ecological speciation suggests natural selection as the most critical component of speciation, gene flow remains an issue. Methods for unbiased hypothesis testing are available, and the genetic and phylogeographic data required for appropriate tests can be generated. Focus on phylogenies and functions of individual genes have revealed strong idiosyncratic elements of speciation, such as single genes with possible allopatric origin that make significant contributions during nonallopatric phases of speciation. Hence a more complex picture of speciation is now emerging that will benefit from unbiased evaluation of both allopatric and sympatric mechanisms of speciation.
Patterns of coevolution in the adaptive radiation of crossbills
Authors: Benkman Craig W. , Parchman Thomas L. , Mezquida Eduardo T.
Published: September 2010

Although evidence for coevolution and geographic variation in its apparent strength is increasing, we still have a relatively poor understanding of why coevolution varies among interactions. Here we review how variation in the occurrence of competitors, resource stability, habitat area, and time has affected the extent of trait escalation in coevolutionary arms races between crossbills (Loxia) and conifers. Competitors for conifer seeds, particularly tree squirrels, have limited the extent of crossbill–conifer coevolution; however, seed crop fluctuations reduce the extent to which tree squirrels limit crossbill–conifer coevolution. Crossbill densities increase with forest area, which results in greater escalation of seed defenses apparently as the result of stronger selection exerted by crossbills. The extent of trait escalation appears to increase toward lower latitudes where crossbill–conifer interactions have likely persisted locally for longer periods of time. However, because most crossbills occur at higher latitudes, much of the extant diversification of crossbills has occurred since the last glacial retreat, and the extent of trait escalation is limited. Nevertheless, coevolution has caused considerable trait evolution even in temperate regions. The conditions favoring coevolution between crossbills and conifers are widespread, and coevolution has played at least some role in at least three fourths of the taxa of crossbills.
Bridging the gap between ecology and evolution: integrating density regulation and life‐history evolution
Authors: Bassar Ronald D. , López‐Sepulcre Andrés , Walsh Matthew R. , Turcotte Martin M. , Torres‐Mejia Mauricio , Reznick David N.
Published: September 2010

Early demographic models of life‐history evolution were formulated in a density‐independent framework and saw extrinsic sources of mortality, such as predation, as the primary driving force that shaped the evolution of life‐history traits. The evidence for density dependence in nature motivated theoreticians to build models that incorporated population regulation. These later generations of models acknowledge that demographic mechanisms of population regulation and extrinsic mortality interact with one another and predict a wide variety of life‐history responses. Such ecologically realistic models require knowledge of the demographic traits and life‐stages most affected by density. Despite the vast empirical literature characterizing population regulation, and a wealth of methods to analyze it, such mechanistic understanding is rare. Ecological experiments whereby density is manipulated can be a powerful tool to disentangle the life‐history determinants of population regulation. Here we review published density‐manipulation experiments and highlight how they can be coupled with existing analytical tools to extract the mechanistic information needed for evolutionary models of life histories.
2009 H1N1 swine flu: the 2010 perspective
Authors: Bucher Doris , Tumpey Terrence , Lowen Anice , Gill James , Shaw Michael , Matthews James , Galarza Jose , Arroyo Jennifer Minieri , Dormitzer Philip Ralph
Published: September 2010

In May 2009, as the H1N1 swine flu outbreak was in the early stages, a conference was held at the New York Academy of Sciences to discuss what was known about the virus and what was being done to stop the outbreak. In May 2010, a follow‐up conference was again held at the New York Academy of Sciences, but now to discuss the H1N1 outbreak retrospectively. The report presented here summarizes the 2010 conference proceedings.
HIV/AIDS: vaccines and alternate strategies for treatment and prevention
Authors: Voronin Yegor , Phogat Sanjay
Published: September 2010

The symposium “HIV/AIDS: Vaccines and Alternate Strategies for Treatment and Prevention” brought together HIV vaccine researchers to discuss the latest developments in the field. From basic discoveries in virus diversity and mechanisms of neutralization by antibodies to nonhuman primate research and clinical trials of vaccine candidates in volunteers, scientists are making great strides in understanding the mechanisms that may protect against HIV and pathways to achieve this protection through vaccination.
Modeling the Fluid Dynamics in a Human Stomach to Gain Insight of Food Digestion
Authors: Ferrua M.J. , Singh R.P.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  During gastric digestion, food is disintegrated by a complex interaction of chemical and mechanical effects. Although the mechanisms of chemical digestion are usually characterized by using in vitro analysis, the difficulty in reproducing the stomach geometry and motility has prevented a good understanding of the local fluid dynamics of gastric contents. The goal of this study was to use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to develop a 3‐D model of the shape and motility pattern of the stomach wall during digestion, and use it to characterize the fluid dynamics of gastric contents of different viscosities. A geometrical model of an averaged‐sized human stomach was created, and its motility was characterized by a series of antral‐contraction waves of up to 80% relative occlusion. The flow field within the model (predicted using the software Fluent™) strongly depended on the viscosity of gastric contents. By increasing the viscosity, the formation of the 2 flow patterns commonly regarded as the main mechanisms driving digestion (i.e., the retropulsive jet‐like motion and eddy structures) was significantly diminished, while a significant increase of the pressure field was predicted. These results were in good agreement with experimental data previously reported in the literature, and suggest that, contrary to the traditional idea of a rapid and complete homogenization of the meal, gastric contents associated with high viscous meals are poorly mixed. This study illustrates the capability of CFD to provide a unique insight into the fluid dynamics of the gastric contents, and points out its potential to develop a fundamental understanding and modeling of the mechanisms involved in the digestion process.

Practical Application:  This study illustrates the capability of computational fluid dynamic techniques to provide a unique insight into the dynamics of the gastric contents, pointing out its potential to develop a fundamental understanding and modeling of the human digestion process.
A Multiplex PCR Method for the Identification of Commercially Important Salmon and Trout Species (Oncorhynchus and Salmo) in North America
Authors: Rasmussen Hellberg Rosalee S. , Morrissey Michael T. , Hanner Robert H.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The purpose of this study was to develop a species‐specific multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method that allows for the detection of salmon species substitution on the commercial market. Species‐specific primers and TaqMan® probes were developed based on a comprehensive collection of mitochondrial 5′ cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) “barcode” sequences. Primers and probes were combined into multiplex assays and tested for specificity against 112 reference samples representing 25 species. Sensitivity and linearity tests were conducted using 10‐fold serial dilutions of target DNA (single‐species samples) and DNA admixtures containing the target species at levels of 10%, 1.0%, and 0.1% mixed with a secondary species. The specificity tests showed positive signals for the target DNA in both real‐time and conventional PCR systems. Nonspecific amplification in both systems was minimal; however, false positives were detected at low levels (1.2% to 8.3%) in conventional PCR. Detection levels were similar for admixtures and single‐species samples based on a 30 PCR cycle cut‐off, with limits of 0.25 to 2.5 ng (1% to 10%) in conventional PCR and 0.05 to 5.0 ng (0.1% to 10%) in real‐time PCR. A small‐scale test with food samples showed promising results, with species identification possible even in heavily processed food items. Overall, this study presents a rapid, specific, and sensitive method for salmon species identification that can be applied to mixed‐species and heavily processed samples in either conventional or real‐time PCR formats.

Practical Application:  This study provides a newly developed method for salmon and trout species identification that will assist both industry and regulatory agencies in the detection and prevention of species substitution. This multiplex PCR method allows for rapid, high‐throughput species identification even in heavily processed and mixed‐species samples. An inter‐laboratory study is currently being carried out to assess the ability of this method to identify species in a variety of commercial salmon and trout products.
Effect of High Pressure Pasteurization on Bacterial Load and Bioactivity of Echinacea Purpurea
Authors: Chen Xiu‐Min , Hu Chun , Raghubeer Errol , Kitts David D.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  High hydrostatic pressure (HHP) technology was applied to organic Echinacea purpurea (E. purpurea) roots and flowers to determine the feasibility of using this technology for cold herb pasteurization, to produce microbiologically safe and shelf‐stable products for the natural health products (NHPs) industry. HHP significantly (P < 0.01) reduced microbial contamination in both roots and flowers without affecting the phytochemical retention of chicoric and chlorogenic acids, and total alkamide contents. The antioxidant activity of E. purpurea methanol‐derived extracts, evaluated in both chemical (2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzthiazoline‐6‐sulphonic acid) [ABTS] and oxygen radical absorption capacity [ORAC] assay) and in cell culture models (RAW264, 7 macrophage, H2O2‐induced intracellular oxidation, and lipopolysaccharide [LPS]‐induced nitric oxide production), was not adversely affected by the application of HHP at both 2 and 5 min at 600 mPa. Furthermore, HHP did not affect the capacity of E. purpurea extracts to suppress nitric oxide production in LPS‐activated macrophage cells. Therefore, our results show that HHP is an effective pasteurization process treatment to reduce microbial‐contamination load while not adversely altering chemical and bioactive function of active constituents present in organic E. purpurea.

Practical Application:  Our study reports for the first time, the effectiveness of using high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) technology pressure to pasteurize E. purpurea root and flower, and the comparative retention of bioactive phytochemicals. Therefore, this technique can be used in food and natural health product industries to produce high‐quality, microbiologically safe, and shelf‐stable products.
Evaluation of Antioxidant and Inhibitory Activities for Different Subclasses Flavonoids on Enzymes for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Lee Je‐Hyuk , Kim Gun‐Hee
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Antioxidant activities of flavonoids were decreased in the order of flavonols > flavanones > flavones. Inhibitory intensities for hyaluronidase and collagenase reaction differed clearly according to flavonoid subclasses. Kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin, and rutin in flavonols inhibited hyaluronidase reaction specifically, while apigenin, luteolin, baicalin, and baicalein in flavones showed specific inhibition to collagenase reaction. In addition, the flavonoids, except baicalin and catechin, inhibited potently LPS‐induced nitrite production in a dose‐dependent manner, which might be mainly due to the suppression of inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase. Quercetin and luteolin showed the strongest inhibitory activities on 15‐lipoxygenase (LOX), and quercetin showed relatively potent inhibition on cyclooxygenase‐1 (COX‐1) reaction. Otherwise, all tested flavonoids possessed the inhibitory activity to COX‐2 reaction, and especially luteolin, kaempferol, hesperetin, and naringin showed relatively the potent inhibition on COX‐2 reaction. This report elucidated the anti‐inflammatory activities, such as the antioxidant property, inhibition of NO production, and inhibition of inflammatory enzymes (hyaluronidase, collagenase, LOX, and COXs) of several subclass flavonoids.
Amelioration of Cadmium‐Induced Oxidative Stress, Impairment in Lipids and Plasma Lipoproteins by the Combined Treatment with Quercetin and α‐Tocopherol in Rats
Authors: Prabu S. Milton , Shagirtha K. , Renugadevi J.
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Cadmium (Cd) exposure results in numerous pathological consequences including oxidative stress and dyslipidemia. The present study was designed to investigate the efficacy of combined treatment with quercetin (QE) and α‐tocopherol (AT) against Cd‐induced oxidative stress and alterations in lipids and lipoproteins in the plasma and liver of rats. Oral administration of Cd (5 mg/kg bw/d) for 4 wk has shown a significant (P< 0.05) increase in thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), lipid hydro peroxides (LOOH), total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL‐C), free fatty acids (FFA), phospholipids (PL), triglycerides (TGs), and the activity of hydroxyl‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase (HMG‐CoA reductase) in plasma with a significant (P> 0.05) reduction in the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), and the activity of lecithin cholesterol acyl transferase (LCAT) in plasma. In addition, the levels of hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), LOOH, conjugated dienes (CD), protein carbonyls (PC), and the activity of HMG‐CoA reductase, levels of cholesterol, FFA, and TGs were significantly (P> 0.05) increased and the level of PL is significantly (P> 0.05) decreased along with the decreased activity of LCAT in the liver of Cd‐treated rats. Oral supplementation with QE (50 mg/kg bw/d) and AT (50 mg/kg bw/d) for 4 wk in Cd intoxicated rats significantly (P> 0.05) has reduced the plasma levels of TBARS, LOOH, GSH, cholesterol, FFA, TGs, VLDL‐C, LDL‐C, and the activity of HMG‐CoA and significantly (P> 0.05) has increased the activity of LCAT and the plasma levels of HDL‐C. The oral supplementation also significantly (P> 0.05) has reduced the hepatic oxidative stress markers, cholesterol, TGs, FFA, and significantly (P> 0.05) has increased the LCAT activity and the PL in liver. Our results indicate that the combined treatment with QE and AT has normalized all the previously mentioned biochemical parameters in Cd‐intoxicated rats than the individual treatments. The combined treatment has provided remarkable protection against Cd‐induced oxidative stress and alterations in lipid metabolism and, thereby, reduced the Cd‐mediated cardiovascular diseases.
Quality of Ready to Serve Tilapia Fish Curry with PUFA in Retortable Pouches
Authors: Dhanapal K. , Reddy G.V.S. , Nayak B.B. , Basu S. , Shashidhar K. , Venkateshwarlu G. , Chouksey M.K.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Studies on the physical, chemical, and microbiological qualities of fresh tilapia meat revealed its suitability for the preparation of ready to eat fish curry packed in retort pouches. Studies on the fatty acid profile of tilapia meat suggest fortification with polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) to increase the nutritional value. Based on the commercial sterility, sensory evaluation, color, and texture profile analysis F0 value of 6.94 and cook value of 107.24, with a total process time of 50.24 min at 116 °C was satisfactory for the development of tilapia fish curry in retort pouches. Thermally processed ready to eat south Indian type tilapia fish curry fortified with PUFA was developed and its keeping quality studied at ambient temperature. During storage, a slight increase in the fat content of fish meat was observed, with no significant change in the contents of moisture, protein, and ash. The thiobarbituric acid (TBA) values of fish curry significantly increased during storage. Fish curry fortified with 1% cod liver oil and fish curry without fortification (control) did not show any significant difference in the levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), during thermal processing and storage. Sensory analysis revealed that fortification of fish curry with cod liver oil had no impact on the quality. Tilapia fish curry processed at 116 °C and F0 value of 7.0 (with or without fortification of cod liver oil) was fit for consumption, even after a period of 1‐y storage in retort pouch.

Practical Application:  Tilapia is a lean variety of fish with white flesh and therefore an ideal choice as raw material for the development of ready to serve fish products such as fish curry in retort pouches for both domestic and international markets. Ready to eat thermal processed (116 °C and F0 value of 7.0) south Indian type tilapia fish curry enriched with PUFA and packed in retort pouch was acceptable for consumption even after a storage period of 1 y at ambient temperature.
1H‐NMR Study of the Impact of High Pressure and Thermal Processing on Cell Membrane Integrity of Onions
Authors: Gonzalez Maria E. , Barrett Diane M. , McCarthy Michael J. , Vergeldt Frank J. , Gerkema Edo , Matser Ariette M. , Van As Henk
Published: September 2010

Abstract: Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H‐NMR) relaxometry was used to study the effects of high pressure and thermal processing on membrane permeability and cell compartmentalization, important components of plant tissue texture. High pressure treated onions were subjected to pressure levels from 20 to 200 MPa at 5 min hold time at initial temperatures of 5 and 20 °C. Thermally treated onions were exposed for 30 min at temperatures from 40 to 90 °C. Loss of membrane integrity was clearly shown by changes in transverse relaxation time (T2) of water at temperatures of 60 °C and above. Destabilization effects on membranes exposed to high pressure were observed at 200 MPa as indicated by T2measurements and cryo‐scanning electron microscopy (Cryo‐SEM). T2relaxation successfully discriminated different degrees of membrane damage based on the T2shift of the vacuolar component. Analyses of the average water self‐diffusion coefficient indicated less restricted diffusion after membrane rupture occurred in cases of severe thermal treatments. Milder processing treatments yielded lower average diffusion coefficients than the controls.1H‐NMR proved to be an effective method for quantification of cell membrane damage in onions and allowed for the comparison of different food processes based on their impact on tissue integrity.
Concentration and Application Order Effects of Sodium Benzoate and Eugenol Mixtures on the Growth Inhibition of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae and Zygosaccharomyces Bailii
Authors: Dai Yumei , McLandsborough Lynne A. , Weiss Jochen , Peleg Micha
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Growth of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Zygosaccharomyces bailii cells was monitored in the presence of sodium benzoate and eugenol alone or combined. The two antimicrobials’ concentration, addition order, and timing were varied to determine and quantify any additive inhibitory effect on the yeasts. The yeast growth was also followed in the presence of ethanol, which served as solubilizer, at pertinent concentrations. The growth patterns are depicted as adjusted optical density compared with time curves. They all had sigmoid shape, described mathematically by a shifted logistic model that had an almost perfect fit to the data. The model's 3 parameters accounted for the curve's asymptote, the location of its inflection point and slope, which are rough measures of the overall growth level and its degree of suppression, the time to reach the peak growth rate and its retardation, and the overall growth rate, respectively. Maximum growth inhibition was achieved when the sodium benzoate and eugenol were administered together or alone in full dose. When each was administered alone but in 2 half dose additions, their efficacy dropped. When they were used together but added sequentially with a 24 h pause, their administration order had a noticeable effect on the treatment's efficacy, which depended on their respective concentrations. These observations are presented in a slightly modified version of the “hurdle” ideogram. They suggest that sequencing the administration of antimicrobials can be a simple tool to probe their mode of activity and quantify their efficacy.

Practical Application:  Reducing the amount of additives in foods is a goal pursued by many branches of the food industry. In microbial growth suppression, a promising way to accomplish such a reduction is through the administration of 2 or more antimicrobials, preferably natural, exploiting their synergism. To search for effective combinations, in respect to type and concentration, one needs an insight into their mode of activity. Sequencing their administration, as demonstrated with 2 antimicrobials and 2 common yeasts that are involved in beverage spoilage, has offered a simple way to probe into certain aspects of the effect of antimicrobial combinations on microorganisms. The presented algebraic growth model enables to quantify, separately, the growth overall suppression, its retardation, and lowering its peak rate. The proposed modified version of the “hurdles paradigm” helps to visualize the differences in the antimicrobials’ general mode of activity and how it is affected by their sequencing.