bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of caudal block on sevoflurane requirement for lower limb surgery in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Kim Soo Hwan , Chun Duk‐Hee , Chang Chul Ho , Kim Tae Wan , Kim Young Mi , Shin Yang‐Sik
Published: February 2011

Background:  Caudal block is a widely used technique for providing perioperative pain management in children. In this randomized double‐blinded study, we evaluated the effects of preoperative caudal block on sevoflurane requirements in children with cerebral palsy (CP) undergoing lower limb surgery while bispectral index (BIS) values were maintained between 45 and 55.

Methods:  52 children undergoing Achilles‐tendon lengthening were randomized to receive combined general–caudal anesthesia (caudal group, n = 27) or general anesthesia alone (control group, n = 25). Caudal block was performed with a single dose of 0.7 ml·kg−1 of 1.0% lidocaine containing epinephrine at 5 μg·ml−1. The control group received no preoperative caudal block. The endtidal sevoflurane concentrations (ETsev) were adjusted every minute to maintain the BIS values between 45 and 55.

Results:  The ETsev required to maintain the BIS values were not significantly different between the control and caudal groups after induction of anesthesia [2.1 (0.2) vs 2.2 (0.4); P = 0.773]. However, significantly higher ETsev was observed in the control group before surgical incision [2.0 (0.2) vs 1.8 (0.3); P = 0.013] and during the first 20 min after surgical incision [2.2 (0.3) vs 1.4 (0.3); P < 0.001]. There was no significant difference in BIS values between the control and caudal groups throughout the study period (P > 0.05). In the caudal group, the caudal block was successful in 25 of 27 (92.6%) patients.

Conclusions:  Caudal block effectively reduced sevoflurane requirements by 36% compared to general anesthesia alone in children with CP undergoing lower limb surgery while BIS values were maintained between 45 and 55.
A survey of blood transfusion practice in French‐speaking pediatric anesthesiologists
Authors: Jouffroy Romain , Baugnon Thomas , Carli Pierre , Orliaguet Gilles
Published: February 2011

Background:  There are so far no existing consensus guidelines regarding red blood cell transfusion during pediatric surgery, and there is a little information regarding red blood cell transfusion policy among pediatric anesthesiologists.

Objectives:  To determine the transfusion threshold and the volumes of packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion among French‐speaking pediatric anesthesiologists.

Materials and methods:  A questionnaire of case scenarios was sent to active members of the French Language Society of Pediatrics Anesthesiologists (ADARPEF).

Results:  Of the 324 active members of the ADARPEF, 175 (54%) completed the questionnaire. The threshold for blood transfusion varied from 6 to 12 g·dl−1 depending on the scenario. The hemoglobin threshold for blood transfusion and the volume of blood transfused vary among ADARPEF physicians, for the same class of patients. The median [95% CI] hemoglobin threshold for starting blood transfusion was 7.9 [6.9–8.9], 7.3 [6.4–8.2], and 8.1 [7.0–9.2] g·dl−1 in the pre‐, intra‐, and postoperative phase, respectively. The median [95% CI] PRBC volume transfused was 11.7 [6.6–16.8] ml·kg−1, and the median hemoglobin target was 11.3 [9.8–12.8] g·dl−1. Physicians ranked age (79%), clinical tolerance of anemia (99%), underlying medical conditions (95%), hemodynamic instability (89%), hemostasis disorder (86%), and sepsis (79%) as the most significant factors affecting their transfusion decisions. Most pediatric anesthesiologists (89%) measure the hemoglobin level before PRBC transfusion.

Conclusions:  This survey identifies significant differences in transfusion practice patterns among pediatric anesthesiologists with a median transfusion threshold of 7.6 [6.6–8.6] g·dl−1 and a median PRBC volume transfusion of 11.7 [16.8–6.6] ml·kg−1.
SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM PARTICIPATION AND HEALTH: EVIDENCE FROM LOW‐INCOME INDIVIDUALS IN TENNESSEE
Authors: YEN STEVEN T. , BRUCE DONALD J. , JAHNS LISA
Published: February 2011

We investigate the factors that contribute to participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program) and the effects of such participation on self‐assessed health (SAH). Our estimation approach consists of an endogenous switching ordered probability model, using the copula approach, for a sample of current and former Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients in Tennessee. Results indicate that sociodemographic characteristics play a role in SNAP participation. Interestingly, we find that participation in SNAP is inversely related to SAH. (JEL I12, I38, C31)
DOES TRADE ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
Authors: REYNOLDS KARA M. , PALATUCCI JOHN S.
Published: February 2011

The U.S. Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program provides workers who have lost their jobs due to increased trade with income support and training, job search, and relocation benefits. This paper uses data collected by the Department of Labor on TAA beneficiaries to provide the most recent econometric evaluation of the effectiveness of the TAA program. Summary statistics suggest that the TAA program successfully targets displaced workers who have a greater difficulty finding new employment. However, using propensity score matching techniques we find that while the required training component of the program improves the employment outcomes of beneficiaries, on average the TAA program has no discernible impact on the employment outcomes of the participants. (JEL F16)
PARTICIPATION OF FIRMS IN VOLUNTARY ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PROGRAMS: AN ANALYSIS OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND CAPITAL MARKET PERFORMANCE
Authors: YU FEI
Published: February 2011

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) employs voluntary programs as a policy instrument to encourage firms to go beyond mere compliance with laws and regulations in protecting the environment. Based on event study methodology, this paper tests for abnormal stock market returns from membership in the National Environmental Performance Track (NEPT) program. The analysis shows that there is strong evidence that acceptance of a facility to the NEPT adds significantly to the market capitalization of the accepted firms. Corporate social responsibility can be financially rewarding for firms and voluntary programs of the EPA can be an effective complement to performance‐based regulatory instruments. (JEL G14, Q58)
TESTING REGULATORY CONSISTENCY
Authors: BREUNIG ROBERT , MENEZES FLAVIO M.
Published: February 2011

We undertake an analysis of regulatory consistency using a database of publicly available regulatory decisions in Australia. We propose a simple exploratory model which allows us to test for regulatory consistency across jurisdictions and industries without detailed knowledge of the regulatory process. We compare two measures using our approach—the weighted average cost of capital (WACC) and the proportion of firms' revenue requirement claims disallowed by the regulator. Our comparison suggests that the WACC is a very poor measure of regulatory consistency. Moreover, our empirical results may be interpreted as indicating that a range of measures ought to be considered when assessing regulatory consistency. Our results also provide an empirical foundation for theoretical modeling of regulatory processes. (JEL L51)
BIASED INFORMATION AND EFFORT
Authors: ROSAZ JULIE
Published: February 2011

We study the impact of information manipulation by a principal on the agent's effort. In a context of asymmetric information at the principal's advantage, we test experimentally the principal's willingness to bias (overestimate or underestimate) the information she/he gives to her/his agent on her/his ability in order to motivate her/him to exert more effort. We find that (1) principals do bias information, and (2) agents trust the cheap‐talk messages they receive and adjust their effort accordingly. Therefore, biased messages improve both the agent's performance and thus the principal's profit. This, however, does not increase efficiency. We also find that overestimation occurs much more often than underestimation. Making the signal costly in an additional treatment reduces this effect.(JELD83, C92, M12)
LABOR SUPPLY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MARRIED HETEROSEXUAL WOMEN AND PARTNERED LESBIANS: A SEMI‐PARAMETRIC DECOMPOSITION APPROACH
Authors: ANTECOL HEATHER , STEINBERGER MICHAEL D.
Published: February 2011

Using 2000 U.S. Census data we illustrate the importance of accounting for household specialization in lesbian couples when examining labor supply differences between heterosexual married and partnered lesbian women. Specifically, we find the labor supply gap is substantially larger between married women and partnered lesbian women who specialize in market production (primary earners) than between married women and partnered lesbian women who specialize in household production (secondary earners). Applying a semi‐parametric decomposition approach we show that controlling for children significantly reduces the gap between married women and secondary lesbian earners both in terms of the decision to remain attached to the labor market (the extensive margin) and annual hours of work conditional on working (the intensive margin). Further, the effect of controlling for children primarily reduces the percentage of secondary lesbian earners working extremely high annual hours. (JEL J15, J16, J22)
SATISFICING AND PRIOR‐FREE OPTIMALITY IN PRICE COMPETITION
Authors: GÜTH WERNER , LEVATI MARIA VITTORIA , PLONER MATTEO
Published: February 2011

We apply a model of satisficing to oligopoly markets with price competition. Sellers have profit aspirations reflecting their conjectures about their competitors' behavior and search for a price guaranteeing these aspirations. Because it seems implausible that people have detailed priors on the others' actions, we postulate that sellers entertain multiple conjectures to which no probabilities can be assigned. This allows us to propose a theory of “prior‐free” optimality and to examine experimentally whether people comply with it. We find that decision makers have difficulties in making prior‐free optimal choices. Most are content to just satisfice, although ways to aspire to more ambitious profits were obviously available.(JELC92, C72, D43)
HOLD‐UP: WITH A VENGEANCE
Authors: DUFWENBERG MARTIN , SMITH ALEC , VAN ESSEN MATT
Published: February 2011

When contracts are incomplete or unenforceable, inefficient levels of investment may occur because of hold‐up. If individuals care for negative reciprocity, these problems may be reduced, as revenge becomes a credible threat. However, negative reciprocity has this effect only when the investor holds the rights of control of the investment proceeds. We explore this issue analytically, deriving predictions for hold‐up games which differ as regards assignment of rights of control. We also test and support these predictions in an experiment. (JEL C72, C92, D23, L14)
The impact of total quality management adoption on small and medium enterprises’ financial performance
Authors: Kober Ralph , Subraamanniam Thanesvary , Watson John
Published: February 2011

This paper examines whether the management accounting practice of total quality management (TQM) positively impacts on the financial performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). While research has investigated the impact of TQM on larger firms, to date, there has been no comprehensive analysis of the impact of TQM on SMEs’ financial performance. Our analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics financial data for 3776 SMEs found no evidence that TQM improved financial performance after controlling for size and risk. Our results contribute to literature by highlighting that management accounting practices developed for larger companies may not necessarily be transposable to SMEs.
From Religious Sociology to Sociology of Religion: Towards Globalisation?
Authors: DOBBELAERE KAREL
Published: February 2011

In Western Europe, “religious sociology” developed after the Second World War and, in order to improve its theory and methods, the Société International de Sociologie Religieuse (SISR) was established in 1948. After comparing its aims with those of the American associations, the author discusses the reception of religious sociology by the churches in Europe. The churches were interested in the description and analyses of the social context in which they were embedded, but they rejected the analyses of religion per se. This ambiguous relationship can also be traced in the development of the SISR, where over the years a “sociology of religion” developed. To explain this change, the author stresses, among other factors, the important impact of the interactions between European and American sociologists of religion during the conferences organized by professional associations. The profession and not the churches became the reference of a new generation of sociologists. Religion rather than the churches became the focus of study, which restored our discipline to mainstream sociology. In a concluding section, new tasks for the professional organizations are suggested and the need for intercontinental research projects is stressed.
Attaining “a Sophisticated Maturity:” A Brief History of the Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion
Authors: MAUSS ARMAND L. , HAMMONS STACY A.
Published: February 2011

An historical overview of the Journal for the Scientific Study of Religion considers both the aspirations of the founders and the extent to which those aspirations have been realized, modified, or exceeded. Appropriate secondary sources are reviewed for an understanding of the intellectual and organizational contexts giving rise to the Journal and for a qualitative consideration of its earliest decades. Then we introduce quantitative data derived from tabulations of all articles and research notes that have appeared in the Journal beginning with its inception in 1961 through 1998. Major trends across time are identified in theories, methods, topics, author characteristics, editor characteristics, and other important traits. The article concludes with evidence of the Journal's premier and significant impact on the social‐scientific study of religion.
“Start Together and Finish Together”: Shifts in the Premises and Paradigms Underlying the Scientific Study of Religion
Authors: BECKFORD JAMES A.
Published: February 2011

The main theme of this article is that the scientific study of religion passed through three stages in its development in the twentieth century. It was well integrated into the mainstream of early social science but by 1950 it had drifted into a more marginal position. The 1980s marked the beginning of a return to a more central position—not only because social scientists specializing in the study of religion were increasingly willing to adopt mainstream premises and paradigms but also because religion was becoming more interesting to other social scientists. Selected illustrations of this pattern of evolution focus on the sociology of knowledge, Marxism, new religious movements, post‐modernity, feminism, globalization, and rational choice theory. The conclusion is that the social scientific study of religion is now taking up themes of much broader interest to many social scientists. It has become less defensive, more expansive, more contentious, and perhaps more interesting than it ever was.
The Mainline Sidelined: The Sociology of Religion Unbound
Authors: NEITZ MARY JO
Published: February 2011

This paper examines an expanding focus in the content of what members of SSSR study and show how this change is reflected in the publications in the journal. I offer four factors that might effect what we study: changes in the world, changes in who we are, changes in funding sources, and changes in the theoretical frames. I discuss the “cultural turn” as new theoretical frame, which has had important implications for the study of religion. 1 then return to the question of changes in the world. I end with my expectation that we will see greater yet inclusiveness in the future.
“Quo Vadis” the Scientific Study of New Religious Movements?
Authors: ROBBINS THOMAS
Published: February 2011

The study of new religious movements has been developing in recent decades in an intellectual context in which both religion and its scholarly investigation appear to be more significant and more controversial than seemed to be the case in the earliest decades of SSSR. The present paper recounts the main themes of early work on nrms in the 1970s and 80s and subsequently explores three current areas of conceptual ambiguity and/or intellectual ferment and conflict. Key contemporary issues represent 1) The Boundary Problem or what is a “new religious movement”?; 2) The growing salience of the analysis of catastrophic episodes of mass violence_involving nrms; and 3) Recent claims to the effect that scholars in the sociology of religion and religious studies who do research on nrms have been led by their strong ideological commitment to the defense of religious liberty to take up a defensive attitude toward controversial “cults” to a degree which has undermined objectivity.
Not in My Backyard: Studies of Other Religions in the Context of SSSR—RRA Annual Meetings
Authors: BEYER PETER
Published: February 2011

In the early years of the two associations, relatively few papers or sessions focused on religions other than Christianity or on religion outside North America, with the partial exception of Judaism. The combined effects of organizational growth and events in the surrounding world, however, led to progressively more treatment of “other” religions and the religions of “others.” Beginning in the mid‐1960s, specific themes of “otherness” established themselves in the meeting programs, including African‐American religion, women and religion, new religions, and Latin American/Latino/a religion. In the 1980s attention spread to the religions of Africa, Eastern Europe, East Asia, the Caribbean, among other places. Although the process is far from complete, its acceleration during the 1990s allows one to predict that it will continue.
Reflexive Ecclesiology: A Challenge to Applied Research in Religious Organizations
Authors: CARROLL JACKSON W.
Published: February 2011

This essay addresses the issue of applied research in, on, and for religious organizations, especially trends in how research has been carried out in relation to religious organizations. It asks how applied research has changed, and what are the implications for the larger field of social scientific research. The essay begins with some general comments about the challenges that face religious organizations in a post‐traditional world that require reflexive monitoring of their traditions and ecclesial practices if these organizations are to survive and engage the future in a significant way. Applied research is defined as one form of reflexive monitoring and includes both (1) research commissioned by leaders of religious organization as an aid for understanding a particular situation or shaping policy or programs, and (2) research that, though not commissioned by religious organizations, has as its primary intent providing religious organizations with policy‐relevant information. Using this definition, the essay then traces trends in applied research from the earlier part of the twentieth century to the present, focusing especially on the past fifty years. It concludes with an assessment of these research efforts as examples of reflexive monitoring.
The Legacy of the High Reliability Organization Project
Authors: Bourrier Mathilde
Published: February 2011

This article looks back over two decades of work pioneered by Todd LaPorte and colleagues, under the banner of High Reliability Theory (HRT). The article revisits the American roots of the Berkeley‐based group and comments on its early and decisive fieldwork choices. It revisits some of the elements that emerged through the controversy around findings and implications of HRT. It discusses the legacy of HRT and the ethnographical impetus given to ‘normal operations’ studies. The use of ethnographic and sociological methodologies gave new vitality to the study of high‐risks organizations.
The growth of artistic nationalism in Senegal
Authors: COCHRANE LAURA L.
Published: February 2011

ABSTRACT.In the 1960s, Senegal's first national leaders narrowly defined how artists should practise nationalism through their work, particularly in the weaving craft, and enforced this definition through selective state patronage. This ideological and stylistic control echoed state control over economic markets. As subsequent administrations have restructured the economy, leading to a powerful informal business sector, so have independent contemporary weavers redefined artistic nationalism. Using ethnographic and archival interviews, this article examines nationalism in Senegalese weaving, placing the perspectives of contemporary weavers alongside those of two arts administrators who helped to develop state‐sponsored programmes in the 1960s and 1970s. I argue that contemporary weavers find inspiration from Senegalese nationalism of the mid‐twentieth century, yet have modified it to encompass individual expression. Because definitions of artistic nationalism in Senegal have shifted, it remains a significant ideology within the national arts scene.
Regulatory mechanisms underlying C4 photosynthesis
Authors: Wang Lin , Peterson Richard B. , Brutnell Thomas P.
Published: February 2011

C4 photosynthesis is an adaptation that evolved to alleviate the detrimental effects of photorespiration as a result of the gradual decline in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. In most C4 plants, two cell types, bundle sheath and mesophyll, cooperate in carbon fixation, and, in so doing, are able to alleviate photorespiratory losses. Although much of the biochemistry is well characterized, little is known about the genetic mechanisms underlying the cell‐type specificity driving C4. However, several studies have shown that regulation acts at multiple levels, including transcriptional, post‐transcriptional, post‐translational and epigenetic. One example of such a regulatory mechanism is the cell‐specific accumulation of major photorespiratory transcripts/proteins in bundle sheath cells, where ribulose‐1,5‐bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase is localized. Although many of the genes are expressed in the bundle sheath, some are expressed in both cell types, implicating post‐transcriptional control mechanisms. Recently, ultra‐high‐throughput sequencing techniques and sophisticated mass spectrometry instrumentation have provided new opportunities to further our understanding of C4 regulation. Computational pipelines are being developed to accommodate the mass of data associated with these techniques. Finally, we discuss a readily transformable C4 grass –Setaria viridis– that has great potential to serve as a model for the genetic dissection of C4 photosynthesis in the grasses.

Contents

Summary
 9

I.
Introduction
10

II.
Regulation of C4 differentiation
11

III.
The photorespiratory pathway: a case study for transcriptional and post‐transcriptional controls
14

IV.
Future perspectives of C4 research – an introduction to a C4 model
16

Acknowledgements
17

References
17
High‐Flux Dialyzers, Backfiltration, and Dialysis Fluid Quality
Authors: Schiffl Helmut
Published: February 2011

Currently, high‐flux hemodialysis is the most common mode of dialysis therapy worldwide. Its steadily increasing use is largely based on the desire to reduce the excessively high morbidity and mortality of end‐stage renal disease patients maintained on conventional dialysis (low‐flux, mostly cellulosic membranes) by offering better biocompatibility and enhanced removal of uremic toxins. Two large randomized trials suggest a survival benefit for selected subgroups of high‐flux dialysis patients such as diabetics, patients with hypoalbuminemia, or patients who have been on dialysis for a long period (> 3.7 years).

The major disadvantage of high‐flux hemodialysis relates to the use of dialysis fluid, which is commonly not pure and may endanger patients treated with high‐flux hemodialysis. Endotoxin fragments and other bacterial substances derived from bacteriologically contaminated dialysis fluid may, even at bacterial counts or endotoxin concentrations within the limits of accepted standards of dialysis fluid purity, enter from the dialysate into the patient′s blood either by convective transfer (backfiltration) or by movement down the concentration gradient (backdiffusion). Repeated exposure of high‐flux hemodialysis patients to backtransport of dialysate contaminants aggravates the uremia‐associated inflammatory response syndrome and contributes to long‐term morbidity. At present, the only solution to circumvent the risks of backtransport is the use of dry powder cartridges for bicarbonate concentrate and the use of bacteria‐ and endotoxin‐retentive filters for the online production of ultrapure dialysis fluid. Use of ultrapure dialysis fluid (bacteria <0.1 CFU/ml and endotoxin <0.03 IU/ml) has been found to reduce inflammation and comorbidities in clinical investigations compared to commercial dialysis fluid.

The European Renal Association and a number of national societies in Europe or in Japan strongly recommend the use of ultrapure dialysis for high‐flux hemodialysis.
Inside the Growth Machine: Real Estate Professionals on the Perceived Challenges of Urban Development
Authors: Kimelberg Shelley McDonough
Published: February 2011

The growth machine framework maintains that coalitions of elites work together to promote and adopt policies and practices that best serve their economic interests and propel cities toward growth. While numerous scholars have subjected the growth machine to theoretical and empirical tests, we know little about the beliefs and perspectives of individual actors within the growth machine. To address this gap in the literature, the present research uses in–depth interviews to examine the subjective views of one segment of the growth machine—real estate professionals. The findings demonstrate that these practitioners see the exercise of power at the local level to be less coordinated, consensus–driven, and growth–oriented than the growth machine thesis suggests. Specifically, they see their own power and capacity to act to be constrained by four factors: the (re)–election interests of politicians; the professional interests of municipal economic development staff; bureaucratic procedures and zoning regulations; and mobilized community members and groups. I conclude with a discussion of the implications for urban political theory and suggestions for future research.
Different challenge terms determine disease patterns of antigen‐induced pulmonary inflammation in E3 rats
Authors: SUN QINGZHU , YANG XUDONG , ASIM M. B. RAZA , JIAO FANGFANG , HE XIAOJING , ZHONG BO , LI DONGMIN , LU SHEMIN
Published: February 2011

Sun Q, Yang X, Asim MBR, Jiao F, He X, Zhong B, Li D, Lu S. Different challenge terms determine disease patterns of antigen‐induced pulmonary inflammation in E3 rats. APMIS 2011; 119: 229–38.

Antigen induced pulmonary inflammation (AIPI) in rats, a classic animal model for asthma, has greatly contributed to the understanding of the disease pathogenesis, especially for the inflammation process. E3 rats are recently used to induce AIPI model for its susceptibility to pulmonary inflammation, but the features of AIPI with different antigen challenge terms on E3 rats require to be elucidated systemically. The aim of this study was to compare AIPI disease patterns in E3 rats with different challenge terms. E3 rats were immunized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) for 1, 4, and 8 weeks. Histological methods were used to determine morphological changes in lungs and cell types in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Nitric oxide (NO) concentration was assayed by Griess method. IL‐4 and TGF‐β expression were detected by real‐time PCR. ELISA was used for the determination of serum IgE and OVA‐specific IgG1. The results showed that all the sensitized E3 rats had a strong influx of eosinophils into the airway. In 1‐week challenge group, the rats showed stronger inflammation, such as elevated levels of NO, delayed type hypersensitivity, IL‐4 expression, and inflammatory cell infiltration; while in 8‐week challenge group, rats manifested significant tissue destruction, accumulation of collagen and mucus production, and higher levels of antibody production, and TGF‐β expression. Hence, the detail characterizations of AIPI model challenged for different terms demonstrated that E3 rats challenged with antigen for 1 week are suitable for studying acute pulmonary inflammation; meanwhile, the model established in the rats challenged for 8 weeks is appropriate for understanding pathogenesis of lung remodelling in chronic inflammation.
Oceanographic coupling across three trophic levels shapes source–sink dynamics in marine metacommunities
Authors: White J. Wilson , Samhouri Jameal F.
Published: February 2011

A central goal of metapopulation ecology is to determine which subpopulations have the greatest value to the larger metapopulation. That is, where are the ‘sources’ that are most essential to persistence? This question is especially relevant to benthic marine systems, where dispersal and recruitment are greatly affected by oceanographic processes. In a single‐species context, theoretical models typically identify ‘hotspots’ with high recruitment, especially high self‐recruitment, as having the highest value. However, the oceanographic forces affecting larval delivery of a given species may also influence the recruitment of that species’ predators, prey, and competitors.We present evidence from the Virgin Islands and Bahamas that oceanographic forces produce spatial coupling between the recruitment of planktivorous fishes, the recruitment of their predators, and the productivity of their zooplankton prey. We examined the consequences of this type of multi‐trophic coupling using a simple analytical population model and a multispecies numerical simulation model with parameter values based on the Virgin Islands system. In both analyses, strong coupling caused planktivores at the highest recruitment sites to experience higher mortality (a consequence of higher predator densities) but faster growth and higher fecundity (a consequence of higher zooplankton densities) than planktivores at low recruitment sites. As such, the relative strength of oceanographic coupling between the three trophic levels strongly determined whether a particular reef acted as a source or sink. In the simulation model, density‐dependent competition for zooplankton limited overall metapopulation biomass more severely than predation, so oceanographic coupling between planktivore larval supply and zooplankton productivity had a stronger effect on the metapopulation value of a patch. We argue that the potential for such tri‐trophic coupling should be incorporated into future metacommunity models and has considerable implications for the design and evaluation of marine reserves.
Effects of forest modification on bird community composition and seed removal in a heterogeneous landscape in South Africa
Authors: Neuschulz Eike Lena , Botzat Alexandra , Farwig Nina
Published: February 2011

Human disturbance threatens and modifies forest ecosystems worldwide. Previous studies have investigated the effects of human impact on local bird communities in disturbed forests, but we still lack information on how bird species richness and ecological processes respond to different forest modifications present at a landscape scale. In a heterogeneous South African landscape, we chose six types of indigenous scarp forest, differing in the intensity of human disturbance: continuous natural forests and natural forest fragments in nature reserves, forest fragments in eucalyptus plantations, fragments in the agricultural matrix, forest gardens and secondary forests in game reserves. In 36 study sites, we investigated the bird community using point counts and observed the seed removal of birds at the native tree species Celtis africana. Species richness did not differ among the forest types, but abundance varied significantly with most birds observed in fragments in the agricultural matrix, forest gardens, and secondary forests. The higher bird abundance in these forests was mainly due to forest generalists, shrubland and open country species whereas forest specialists were rarely present. Changes in species composition were also confirmed by multivariate analysis which clearly separated bird communities by forest type. Frugivore abundance in C. africana was highest in natural forest fragments, fragments in the agricultural matrix, forest gardens and secondary forests. The same trend was found for the estimated total number of fruits removed per C. africana tree, though the differences among forest types were not significant. Consequently, modified forests seem to maintain important ecological functions as they provide food sources for generalist species which may, due to their mobility, enhance natural plant regeneration. However, we could show that protected forest habitats are important refugees for specialist species sensitive to human disturbance.
Cooperative and Competitive Orientation among Chinese People: Scale Development and Validation
Authors: Chen Xiao-Ping , Xie Xiaofei , Chang Shiqing
Published: February 2011

Chinese people are known to be strong in dialectical thinking – a cognitive tendency toward the acceptance of contradiction. Based on this finding, we conceptualized cooperative and competitive orientation as two distinct constructs that represent individual beliefs about and attitudes toward the nature of their relationship with others. We hypothesized that as stable individual differences, cooperative and competitive orientation would have differential effects on people's cognition and behaviour. Adopting a contextualization approach to Chinese management research, we developed a seven-item cooperative orientation scale and a six-item competitive orientation scale that demonstrated high reliabilities and validities. A laboratory experiment using the response latency method showed that people scoring higher on cooperative orientation responded significantly faster toward words of a cooperative nature, whereas people scoring higher on competitive orientation responded significantly faster toward words of a competitive nature. A field survey in multiple Chinese organizations further showed that cooperative and competitive orientation had differential effects on employee task performance and organizational citizenship behaviour beyond the effects of the personality differences. The theoretical and practical implications of this study are discussed in the context of work groups in Chinese organizations and beyond.
EFFECT OF STORAGE TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS ON SENSORY QUALITY OF FRESH‐CUT CANTALOUPE MELON
Authors: BETT‐GARBER K.L. , GREENE J.L. , LAMIKANRA O. , INGRAM D.A. , WATSON M.A.
Published: February 2011

Consistent storage temperature of 2–5C for fresh‐cut produce is difficult to maintain throughout distribution. This study determined the effects of temperature changes on the sensory quality of fresh‐cut cantaloupe. Cantaloupe was processed, packaged and stored for 7 days. Samples were maintained at 4 and 10C (controls) or transferred from 4 to 10C after 24 or 48 h. Descriptive sensory analysis was used to evaluate aroma, flavor and texture after days 2, 5 and 7 of storage. Respiration and weight loss were monitored. Aroma and flavor were affected by temperature treatments. Texture was affected a little by temperature changes. Fruity/melon aroma and flavor, citrus aroma and sweet aromatic flavor were negatively affected by temperature changes compared to control treatments. Musty and rancid/painty flavors and bitter increased due to temperature changes. Respiration and moisture loss were affected more by storage at 10C than temperature change. Temperature increases during storage of fresh‐cut fruit decreases product quality.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Ideally, fresh‐cut cantaloupe should be stored at 2–5C until consumption. In the real world, this does not always happen. The purpose of this manuscript is to determine the effect on sensory quality when the storage temperature is increased slightly after 24 or 48 h after processing. Slight changes in storage temperature result in sensory quality problems that were not observed at constant storage temperatures of 4 or even10C.
EVALUATION OF SENSORY PROFILE AND P‐VINYLGUAIACOL (PVG) CONTENT IN ORANGE JUICES DURING STORAGE AT DIFFERENT TEMPERATURE
Authors: KLIMCZAK INGA , MAŁECKA MARIA
Published: February 2011

The objective of the present study was to determine the influence of storage conditions on the sensory quality and content of P‐vinylguaiacol (PVG) of pure pasteurized orange juices marketed domestically under two popular brands. No PVG was detected in fresh juices. After 12 months of storage of the orange juices at 18, 28 and 38C, the PVG contents were 284, 1,292 and 2,515 µg/L, respectively. Using principal component analysis differentiation of the sensory quality of fresh and stored juices was possible. The quality of the fresh orange juices was differentiated most considerably by intensity of the sweet, sour and refreshing odors, and by intensity of the sweet, sour and pungent flavor. The sensory quality of the juices stored at 18C for 12 months corresponded to the quality of these stored 2 months at 28C. At 38C, the juices were completely changed after 2 months and were unfit for drinking.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

The descriptive analysis (quantitative descriptive analysis) is a very useful tool for performing a detailed sensory comparative analysis of fresh and stored orange juices, allowing to draw precise conclusions as to the sensory quality of juices. The descriptive analysis could also serve as a reference to instrumental methods used for quality control of storage juices.
APPLICATION OF MULTIVARIATE STATISTICAL ANALYSES TO THE STUDY OF FACTORS AFFECTING WHITE WINE VOLATILE COMPOSITION
Authors: GALLO VALERIA , BELTRÁN RAFAEL , HEREDIA FRANCISCO J. , GONZÁLEZ‐MIRET M. LOURDES , HERNANZ DOLORES
Published: February 2011

The influence of different storage conditions on the volatile composition of young white wine was evaluated during 1 year of storage. The wine was bottled and stored under different conditions of temperature, position and illumination. During storage, a significant increase in total content esters (mainly due to the increase in ethyl butyrate, ethyl acetate and diethyl succinate) and total content acids was detected. Also total content alcohols and carbonyl compounds decreased during storage. Storage time, temperature and illumination have a significant effect on esters content, whereas carbonyl compounds are affected by temperature, and alcohols content is affected by illumination. Stepwise linear discriminant analysis was applied to the experimental data. The results showed that the samples were well classified as a function of storage temperature. On the other hand, a certain trend was observed when the wine samples were classified according to storage time. The samples corresponding to two and four months of storage were well differentiated from the rest.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

From a sensory point of view, the aroma influences greatly the quality of wines. The loss of aromatic characteristics in young white wine, as well as browning, take place over a variable period of time which ranges from one month to several years, depending on wine type and storage conditions. Assessment of possible factors affecting the useful lifespan of young white wine is of great interest for the wine making industry. Knowing the chemical composition of wine, specifically aromas, and its evolution relating to different storage and preservation conditions is an important tool in quality control.
INTERACTIVE EFFECTS OF SELECTED NUTRIENTS AND FERMENTATION TEMPERATURE ON H2S PRODUCTION BY WINE STRAINS OF SACCHAROMYCES
Authors: BOHLSCHEID JEFFRI C. , OSBORNE JAMES P. , ROSS CAROLYN F. , EDWARDS CHARLES G.
Published: February 2011

Metabolic interactions between yeast assimilable nitrogen (YAN), biotin, pantothenic acid, and fermentation temperature that affect H2S production by wine yeast during alcoholic fermentation were examined. Strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (UCD 522 and EC1118) were inoculated into a synthetic grape juice medium with H2S evolution monitored under fermentative conditions. While a number of interactions affected the evolution of H2S, YAN as a factor by itself was found to be not significant (P > 0.05) for both yeasts examined. Maximal cumulative H2S production for strain UCD 522 occurred in media fermented at 30C with 60 mg/L YAN, 10 µg/L biotin, and 50 µg/L pantothenic acid while minimum production was observed with 250 mg/L YAN and 250 µg/L pantothenate. Similarly, strain EC1118 produced the most H2S at 30C, but with 250 mg/L YAN, 0.5 µg/L biotin, and 50 µg/L pantothenic acid and the least in media that contained 250 mg/L YAN and 250 µg/L pantothenic acid.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

“Reduced” off‐odors of wines, primarily associated with sulfur‐containing molecules such as H2S, continue to be a difficulty facing winemakers worldwide. One strategy for wineries to limit these problems is to add yeast nutrients prior to fermentation, most commonly, nitrogen‐containing compounds such as diammonium phosphate. However, nitrogen deficiency is not always the sole cause for these problems. Rather, the current research suggests the need to consider factors other than nitrogen including availability of biotin and pantothenic acid as well as fermentation temperature in order to minimize these off‐odors.
Telomere length and age in pinnipeds: The endangered Australian sea lion as a case study
Authors: Izzo Christopher , Hamer Derek J. , Bertozzi Terry , Donnellan Stephen C. , Gillanders Bronwyn M.
Published: February 2011

Abstract

Telomeres are the protective caps at the ends of all eukaryotic chromosomes. Because DNA replication of chromosome ends is incomplete, telomeres undergo sequence loss with each cell division resulting in the progressive shortening of their lengths. Telomere shortening with age is known from terrestrial mammals. We test whether this pattern is shared by marine mammals, by comparing telomere lengths between age classes in a pinniped species, the Australian sea lion (Neophoca cinerea). Telomere lengths were measured using a real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method in specimens from three age classes: pup (<1.5 yr), juvenile (1.5–5 yr), and adult (>5 yr). Mean telomere lengths of the adults were significantly shorter than the juvenile and pup classes. However, we were unable to differentiate between pups and juveniles. These findings confirm that the Australian sea lion shares the general pattern of shortening telomere lengths with age as documented in terrestrial mammals. The application of telomere lengths as an age determinant requires considerable development to refine the scale of the age estimates derived, which will require the use of known‐aged individuals. Nonetheless, measures of telomere lengths have the potential to become valuable tools in molecular ecology and forensics for assessing compliance in harvesting situations.
Bioeconomic Analysis of Improved Diets for Lobster, Panulirus ornatus, Culture in Vietnam
Authors: Petersen Elizabeth H. , Phuong Truong H.
Published: February 2011

Culture‐based growout of tropical spiny lobster, Panulirus ornatus, is a nascent and unique industry that faces a number of challenges and opportunities. Of particular interest to this study is the imminent development of pelleted diets for lobster (probably within 3 yr) that will potentially reduce the industry's dependence on bycatch for feed (with benefits to wild stocks of fish and reduced downstream environmental impacts). The aim of this paper is to conduct a bioeconomic analysis of lobster growout farming in Vietnam and analyze the cost‐effectiveness of potential manufactured feed diets for these farms. Growout lobster farming is found to be a high‐cost and high‐return industry, with a benefit cost ratio of approximately 1.44. Approximately 60% of the total costs are feed related, with the quantity of feed being the production parameter with the highest variability. Hence, reducing the cost and increasing the efficiency of feeding will have a significant impact on the level and variability of profit. It is expected that manufactured diets will improve the profitability by approximately 267 million VND/yr for an individual farmer (15,000 USD) and approximately 435 billion VND/yr for the industry (24 million USD). This is expected to double again if the diets have the added benefit of reducing mortality through the inclusion of vitamins and other additives.
Influence of Dietary Oil Sources on Muscle Composition and Plasma Lipoprotein Concentrations in Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: Ferreira Milena W. , de Araujo Felipe G. , Costa Diego V. , Rosa Priscila V. , Figueiredo Henrique C. P. , Murgas Luis D. S.
Published: February 2011

To investigate the impact of different dietary lipid sources on fillet composition and lipid transport, we conducted a feeding trial and evaluated the proximate composition of muscle tissue, fatty acid profiles, total cholesterol (in muscle and plasma), triglycerides, and lipoprotein concentrations in Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Five semi‐purified diets, containing different oils (soybean – SO, corn – CO, linseed – LO, fish – FO, and olive – OO), were supplied to tilapia for 160 d. Fish fed with LO and FO diets had a lower percentage of total lipids in muscle compared with the others (P < 0.05). The highest percentage of protein was found in fish fed with FO diet (P < 0.05). The muscle fatty acid profile was influenced differently by diets (P < 0.05). The group supplemented with SO and CO had a higher concentration of 18:2n‐6, whereas the fish fed with LO diet had a higher level of 18:3n‐3 and those that received the FO diet had more 22:6n‐3 in comparison with those supplemented with vegetable oils. Plasma lipid transport was also affected by the diets: the fish fed with FO diet had higher total cholesterol and high‐density lipoprotein and lower very‐low‐density lipoprotein concentrations (P < 0.05).
Sensory Analysis of Rainbow Trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, Fed Enriched Black Soldier Fly Prepupae, Hermetia illucens
Authors: Sealey Wendy M. , Gaylord T. Gibson , Barrows Frederic T. , Tomberlin Jeffery K. , McGuire Mark A. , Ross Carolyn , St‐Hilaire Sophie
Published: February 2011

A growth trial and fillet sensory analysis were conducted to examine the effects of replacing dietary fish meal with black soldier fly (BSF) prepupae, Hermetia illucens, in rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss. A practical‐type trout diet was formulated to contain 45% protein; four test diets were developed by substituting 25 and 50% of the fish meal with normal (BSF) or fish offal‐enriched black soldier fly (EBSF) prepupae. Dietary fat was adjusted to approximately 20% lipid using fish oil and poultry fat. Diets were fed to three replicate tanks of fish per treatment (10 fish/tank) for 8 wk. After the trial, three fish per tank were sampled for determination of hepatosomatic index, intraperitoneal fat ratio and muscle ratio, and muscle proximate and fatty acid composition. Fish remaining after sampling were used for sensory evaluation. Growth of fish fed the EBSF diets was not significantly different from those fish fed the fish meal‐based control diet, while the growth of fish fed the BSF diets was significantly reduced as compared to the control diet. A group of 30 untrained panelists did not detect a significant difference in a blind comparison of fish fed the fish meal containing control diet as compared to fish fed the EBSF or BSF diets.