bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Invasive green crab, Carcinus maenas, on the Atlantic coast and in the Bras d'Or Lakes of Nova Scotia, Canada: larval supply and recruitment
Authors: Cameron Beth , Metaxas Anna
Published: June 2005

Patterns in larval supply and recruitment of the invasive European green crab, Carcinus maenas, were examined at two sites in Nova Scotia, Canada: a typical Atlantic coastal site with high salinity (∼33) and strong tidal signal (Terence Bay); and a microtidal site in the Bras d'Or Lakes, where surface salinity fluctuated from 0 to 23 (Benacadie Pond). Abundance of all life history stages (zoeae, megalopae, juveniles and ovigerous females) was sampled approximately biweekly at each site from June 2001 to June 2002. The reproductive season, based on the presence of ovigerous females, is ∼5 months (June to October) at both sites. Zoeae-I were collected from June to July 2001 and in June 2002 at Terence Bay, and from June to August 2001 at Benacadie Pond. We did not collect later zoeal stages at either site. Megalopae were collected from September to October 2001 at Terence Bay, and from August to September 2001 at Benacadie Pond. Juveniles 1–6 mm carapace width (CW) were present throughout the summer at Terence Bay, and only in autumn at Benacadie. Juveniles 6–12 and 12–27 mm CW were present throughout the summer and autumn at both sites. At Terence Bay, densities of 1–6 and 12–27 mm CW juveniles did not vary among intertidal zones. In contrast, the 6–12 mm CW size-class appeared to move higher in the intertidal through the season, possibly due to effects of predation.
The tidal rhythm in activity of the mole crab Emerita talpoida
Authors: Forward Richard B. , Diaz Humberto , Cohen Jonathan H.
Published: June 2005

The mole crab Emerita talpoida occurs in the swash zone of sandy beaches. Although crabs move with the tide, field studies found that the smaller crabs are distributed higher intertidally than the larger crabs. The present study tested the hypothesis that the rhythm, timing of activity, and activity amplitude with respect to tides would be different among megalopae, juveniles, small females, small males, mature males and large ovigerous females and underlie the observed field distributions. Activity of individuals in columns was observed under constant conditions with a video system and quantified as the number of ascents from the sand each 0·5 h. All life history stages had a circatidal rhythm in vertical swimming with median free running period lengths near 12·4 h and activity peaks after the time of high tide. Period length and time of activity peaks did not differ significantly among the life history stages. Activity amplitude was related to tidal amplitude of consecutive high tides at the collection site. Larger crabs had greatest activity after the lower amplitude high tides whereas small crabs had equal activity amplitude on consecutive tides. The test hypothesis was partially supported because the difference in activity amplitude predicts an oscillation between overlapping distributions of small and large crabs after low amplitude high tides, with the smaller crabs distributed higher on the beach after high amplitude high tides. The rhythm was not affected by a light:dark cycle and could be entrained by mechanical agitation.
Recruitment of the barnacle Balanus amphitrite in a tropical estuary: implications of environmental perturbation, reproduction and larval ecology
Authors: Desai Dattesh V. , Anil A.C.
Published: June 2005

Phytoplankton blooms are known to influence barnacle recruitment and in boreal regions spring blooms work as an important trigger. Close to the west coast of the sub-continent of India, blooms tend to be triggered by breaks in the monsoon and the recurrence of the monsoon after a short break can stress the new recruits. The recruitment of Balanus amphitrite, an acorn barnacle, at Dona Paula Bay at the mouth of Zuari estuary, Goa, India was studied. Observations included variations in recruitment, larval abundance, development and reproduction. Adult conditioning and inter-brood variations were important factors in the larval ecology of this organism. The results indicate that the impulsive release of larvae during breaks between monsoons could be a short-sighted luxury for Balanus amphitrite in these waters. Temporal variations or recruitment failure in such environments can be attributed to inappropriate cue synchronization.
The contribution of microphytobenthos for scallop Euvola ziczac (Bivalvia: Pectinidae) feeding in a shallow area of the south-eastern Brazilian continental shelf
Authors: Pellizzari Franciane , Borzone Carlos Alberto , Pezzuto Paulo Ricardo , Zehnder-Alves Leticia
Published: June 2005

The general composition and abundance of microalgae in sediment, water column and stomach contents of scallops were studied at two Euvola ziczac beds on the south-eastern inner Brazilian continental shelf. These areas, which support an extensive demersal fishery, are hydrologically dominated by Tropical and Subantarctic Waters and exhibit a summer water intrusion of South Atlantic Central Water (SACW). The same genera of benthic diatoms, mainly <30 μmm, were found on sediment and scallop stomach samples. Despite the seasonal variation of hydrographic conditions, the composition and abundance of main benthic diatoms from sediment and stomachs did not change throughout the year. On the other hand, phytoplankton from the water samples collected above the seabed (mainly pelagic diatoms >30 μm and dinoflagellates) was composed of distinct taxa and presented a high seasonal variation in abundance. The prevalence of microphytobenthos in the scallop diet suggests the importance of this community to the sustainability of this valuable demersal fishery resource.
A new species of Calyptogena (Bivalvia: Vesicomyidae) from a recently discovered methane seepage area off Concepción Bay, Chile (∼36°S)
Authors: Sellanes Javier , Krylova Elena
Published: June 2005

Calyptogena gallardoi sp. nov. is described from eight articulated and 15 separated valves collected by dredge at ∼760 m depth off the Bay of Concepción, central Chile (∼36°S). In general outline, C.gallardoi sp. nov. is close to C. pacifica and to a new species of Calyptogena from Peru, from which it differs in details of the shell shape and hinge margin. Bivalves of the genus Calyptogena are typical constituents of marine chemosynthesis-based communities, and are therefore indicators of reducing environments. In the area of occurrence, the presence of C. gallardoi sp. nov. is related to methane seepage, associated in turn with the extensive gas–hydrate fields recently reported for the Chilean margin along 35°S to 45°S. Gas-saturated sediments as well as fragments of other chemosynthetic endosymbiont-containing clams of the families Vesicomyidae, Lucinidae, Thyasiridae and Solemyidae were also retrieved in the area.

Calyptogena gallardoi sp. nov. is the first species of Calyptogena s.s. and the second species of the family Vesicomyidae so far described for the south-eastern Pacific area.
First record of Idas simpsoni (Mollusca: Bivalvia: Mytilidae) in the Adriatic Sea
Authors: Bolotin J. , Hrs-Brenko M. , Tutman P. , Glavić N. , Kožul V. , Skaramuca B. , Lučić D. , Lučić J.
Published: June 2005

More than 127 specimens of the bivalve mollusc Idas simpsoni were collected from the skull of a fin whale Balaenoptera physalus. The skull was trawled up from a depth of 430 m near Mljet Island in the south Adriatic Sea. This is the first finding of I. simpsoni in the Adriatic Sea.
On the record of the African threadfish Alectis alexandrinus (Pisces: Carangidae) from the Adriatic Sea
Authors: Dulčić J.
Published: June 2005

One specimen of African threadfish was caught near Split (middle Adriatic) on 26 September 1973 and donated to the Museo Storia Naturale di Genova (MSNG). Tortonese reported on the extralimital capture of this species (under the name Scyris alexandrina) without any other data. This was neglected and this species was not put in the list of Adriatic fish. After revision of the specimen and data from the MSNG it could be suggested that the species must be in the list of Adriatic fish. This record represents the northernmost occurrence of this species in the world.
Vulnerability of harbour seals, Phoca vitulina, to transient industrial activities in the Strait of Dover
Authors: Seuront Laurent J.J. , Prinzivalli Perrine
Published: June 2005

The abundance of the harbour seal (Phoca vitulina) was recorded on a tidal bar in the Dover Strait off Calais, over a six-year period between 1999 and 2004. Despite clear seasonal and interannual variability in the number of individuals hauled out on the bar, underwater activities devoted to the installation of industrial wastewater pipes conducted during seven weeks 1 km away from the bar led to a dramatic decline in the number of seals hauling out. A full 19 months after the end of the operations the harbour seal population had not recovered their initial abundance. The results of this study have critical consequences on the conservation of P. vitulina in areas impacted by anthropogenic activities.
Do mycorrhizas improve tropical tree seedling performance under water stress and low light conditions? A case study with Dicorynia guianensis (Caesalpiniaceae)
Authors: Béreau Moïse , Bonal Damien , Louisanna Eliane , Garbaye Jean
Published: June 2005

We tested the response of seedlings of Dicorynia guianensis, a major timber tree species of French Guiana, to mycorrhizal symbiosis and water limitation in a semi-controlled experiment under natural light conditions. Under well-watered conditions, mycorrhizal colonization resulted in an increase of net photosynthesis, growth and phosphorus uptake. When submitted to water stress, no growth reduction of mycorrhizal seedlings was observed. Mycorrhizal seedlings were more sensitive to drought than non-mycorrhizal ones in terms of carbon assimilation, but not with regard to stomatal closure. In contrast to previous studies on temperate tree seedlings, this result precludes a mycorrhizal effect on the hydraulic properties of this species. Furthermore, our results suggest that below a specific threshold of soil moisture, carbon assimilation of D. guianensis seedlings was decreased by the mycorrhizal symbiosis. This is probably related to the competition between the plant and its host fungus for carbon allocation under low light intensity, even though it did not seem to have a significant effect on mortality in our experiment.
Light-dependent seedling survival and growth of four tree species in Costa Rican second-growth rain forests
Authors: Balderrama Silvia Iriarte Vivar , Chazdon Robin L.
Published: June 2005

The dependence of tree seedling survival and growth on light availability was evaluated over 15 mo in three second-growth, wet forest stands (15–18 y old) in north-eastern Costa Rica. Seedlings of four canopy tree species (Dipteryx panamensis, Hyeronima alchorneoides, Virola koschnyi and Vochysia guatemalensis) were planted into four canopy treatments in three replicated stands and in a pasture site, spanning a nearly complete gradient of light availability. Survival and growth of all species increased in response to increasing light availability, but species differed in survival in shaded microsites (6–20% light transmittance) and in growth increments per light increase. Hyeronima showed the highest mortality at low light levels and the highest relative height growth increase per light increase. In contrast, Virola showed high survival at low and moderate light, but showed the lowest leaf area and above-ground biomass per light increase among all species. Dipteryx and Vochysia maintained relatively high rates of survival and growth across the entire light gradient. Hyeronima and Virola showed trade-offs between growth and survival responses to light, unlike Dipteryx and Vochysia. Differences among species in seedling survival at low light may be determined by a variety of physiological and morphological traits that may or may not be mechanistically linked to growth responses.
Food selection by a hyperdense population of red howler monkeys (Alouatta seniculus)
Authors: Lopez Gabriela Orihuela , Terborgh John , Ceballos Natalia
Published: June 2005

We studied diet choice by a generalist herbivore, the red howler monkey (Alouatta seniculus) under conditions of high and normal population density. Densities equivalent to 800–1000 km−2 (roughly 20–40 times normal) occurred in populations trapped on small, predator-free islands in Lago Guri, Venezuela. For three successive years, we studied one such population, a group of six animals living on a 0.6-ha island and compared its feeding ecology to that of two groups living at normal densities on a 190-ha island. The 0.6-ha island supported a total of 351 trees >10 cm dbh of 46 species, whereas >100 species probably occurred within the 16- and 23-ha home ranges of the two large-island howler troops. Small-island howlers were thus predicted to consume fewer resources, in particular less fruit, and to be less selective in diet choice than large-island howlers. As predicted, small-island howlers consumed fewer resources and obtained a smaller fraction of their intake from rare tree species (those contributing <1% of basal area). Small-island howlers consumed less fruit (2% of feeding time vs. 22%) and more foliage (73% vs. 55%) than the large-island groups. Diet breadth of small-island howlers was markedly less than that of their large-island counterparts. Tree species not present on the small island contributed ≥60% of leaf consumption by large-island howlers. Foliage sources preferred by large-island howlers were different in each of 3 years, whereas foliage of the same species of tree consistently ranked first on the small island. Long-term persistence (17 y) of self-perpetuating howler groups on Lago Guri islets at >20 times normal density strongly suggests that food availability does not limit mainland populations.
Fire effects on the spatial patterns of soil resources in a Nicaraguan wet tropical forest
Authors: Blair Brent C.
Published: June 2005

Anthropogenic wildfires are becoming increasingly frequent in wet tropical forests. This trend follows that of other anthropogenic disturbances, which are now acute and widespread. Fires pose a potentially serious threat to tropical forests. However, little is known about the impact of unintended forest fires on below-ground resources in these ecosystems. This study investigated the influence of fires on the distribution and variability of soil resources on two sets of 50×50-m burned and unburned plots in a Nicaraguan rain forest. Samples were collected at 5-m intervals throughout each plot as well as subsamples at 50-cm intervals. Geostatistical techniques as well as univariate statistics were used to quantify the spatial autocorrelation and variability of selected nutrients (N, P and K), carbon and standing leaf litter. Most variability in this forest was spatially dependent at a scale of 30 m or less. However the average range of autocorrelations varied greatly between properties and sites. Burning altered soil heterogeneity by decreasing the range over which soil properties were autocorrelated. Overall the average patch size (range) for nitrogen was reduced by 7%, phosphorus by 52%, potassium by 60% and carbon by 43%. While phosphorus and leaf litter increased in the burned plots compared to unburned plots, potassium was not different. Nitrogen and carbon did not display a consistent pattern between burning regimes and this may be explained by variation in fire intensity. Leaf litter measurements did not correlate with measured soil nutrients within plots. Observed changes in the burned forest were likely a result of both the intensity of burning and change in vegetative cover between the time of the fires and soil sampling.
Sea level changes at Port Stanley, Falkland Islands
Authors: Woodworth P. L. , Pugh D. T. , Meredith M. P. , Blackman D. L.
Published: June 2005

Time series of sea level change at Port Stanley present a rich spectrum of variability from seiches, tides, and storm surges through to the seasonal, interannual, and secular changes of interest to ocean circulation and climate change studies. This paper emphasizes the strategic importance of the Port Stanley sea level station within a global sea level network through analysis of the decade‐length tide gauge records from Port Stanley itself, together with sets of data from a series of temporary tide gauge deployments at several other locations in East Falkland. The characteristics of seiches and of tidal, storm surge, and mean sea level variability are described, and the frequency of extreme sea level events is determined. Port Stanley sea level variability is shown to be “inverse barometer like” over a wide range of frequencies, although with a significant dependence on the local wind field and an intriguing association with the distant tropical Pacific wind field. Altimeter and tide gauge data in combination demonstrate that the sea level variability is representative of much of the Patagonian shelf and neighboring deep ocean. Consequently, Port Stanley is an ideal site to include within a global network for the purpose of altimeter calibration. The utility of Port Stanley data for monitoring variability in the Falkland‐Malvinas Current and Antarctic Circumpolar Current is explored. Port Stanley possesses one of the longest records from a Southern Hemisphere island which indicates an upward sea level secular trend (adjusted for station air pressure) of 0.70 ± 0.18 (statistical) ± 0.25 (systematic) mm/yr since 1964.
Self-affine roughness influence on the Casimir effect
Authors: Palasantzas G.
Published: June 2005

In this work we investigate the influence of self-affine roughness on the Casimir energy for plate-plate geometry. The plate roughness is characterized by the rms roughness amplitude w, the lateral correlation length ξ, and the roughness exponent H. It is shown that the latter has a prominent effect on the Casimir energy with respect to the long-wavelength roughness ratio w∕ξ. Analytic results are shown for three characteristic roughness exponents, namely, H=0, 0.5, and 1. Moreover, the dynamic evolution of the surface roughness (e.g., by metal deposition) leads to significant contributions of the roughness influence on the Casimir energy.
New methodology for thermal parameter measurements in solids using photothermal radiometry
Authors: Depriester M. , Hus P. , Delenclos S. , Sahraoui A. Hadj
Published: June 2005

The photothermal radiometry (PTR) signal is analyzed in order to simultaneously obtain the thermal diffusivity and effusivity of solid materials. Analytical procedures that allow the determination of the thermal parameters via a frequency scan of the amplitude or the phase of the PTR signal are presented. The measurement procedures do not involve a multiparameter-fit optimization algorithm. The methods have been used for the measurement of thermophysical properties of vitreous carbon and lead-itanate-zirconate ceramic samples.
Photodegradation and photocuring in the operation of a blue upconversion fiber laser
Authors: Qin Guanshi , Huang Shenghong , Feng Yan , Shirakawa A. , Musha M. , Ueda Ken-ichi
Published: June 2005

Photodegradation and photocuring effects were investigated in the operation of a Tm3+-doped blue upconversion fiber laser. Our experimental results indicate that a competition between photodegradation and photocuring greatly affects the maximum output power of a blue upconversion fiber laser.
The effect of the range of interaction on the phase diagram of a globular protein
Authors: Lutsko James F. , Nicolis Grégoire
Published: June 2005

Thermodynamic perturbation theory is applied to the model of globular proteins studied by ten Wolde and Frenkel [P. R. ten Wolde and D. Frenkel Science 77, 1975 (1997)] using computer simulation. It is found that the reported phase diagrams are accurately reproduced. The calculations show how the phase diagram can be tuned as a function of the length scale of the potential.
Rainbow scattering of CO and N2 from LiF(001)
Authors: Kondo Takahiro , Kato Hiroyuki S. , Yamada Taro , Yamamoto Shigehiko , Kawai Maki
Published: June 2005

The angular intensity distributions of CO and N2 molecules scattered from a LiF(001) surface have been measured as functions of surface temperature, incident translational energy, and incident azimuthal direction affecting surface corrugation at a high resolution. Although both molecules have the same molecular mass and linear structure, only the CO molecule shows a rainbow feature in its scattering pattern, while the N2 molecule shows a single peak distribution. From the comparisons of the obtained results with the calculated predictions based on the newly developed classical theory of the ellipsoid-washboard model, the differences in scattering distribution are attributed to the effects of molecular anisotropy and center-of-mass position. With an increase in the extent of the molecular anisotropy such as that of N2 and CO as compared with rare-gas atoms, the summation of several scattering distributions depending on molecular orientation results in smearing the rainbow scattering on the corrugated surface. This smearing effect, however, attenuates when center-of-mass position deviates from the molecular center, as that for CO.
Novel technique for characterizing hydriding and dehydriding kinetics: Pressure programmed absorption and desorption
Authors: Urretavizcaya G. , Fuster V. , Castro F. J.
Published: June 2005

A novel technique to measure hydrogen absorption and desorption kinetics of hydride forming materials is presented. The method is based on the measurement of the isothermal hydriding or dehydriding rate under controlled increasing or decreasing pressure ramps. The main advantages of this technique are the avoidance of the blind period during the initial absorption or desorption stages, and the possibility to perform consecutive hydriding and dehydriding cycles. The most important characteristics of the technique are illustrated by analyzing the Pd-H and Mg-H systems.
Nonlinear Landau damping in nonextensive statistics
Authors: Valentini Francesco
Published: June 2005

The evolution of electrostatic waves, in unmagnetized collisionless plasmas, is numerically investigated by using a semi-Lagrangian Vlasov-Poisson code, in the fully nonlinear regime and in the context of the nonextensive statistics proposed by Tsallis [C. Tsallis, J. Stat. Phys. 52, 479 (1988)]. The effect of the Landau damping saturation, due to the nonlinear wave-particle interaction, is analyzed as a function of different values of the nonextensive parameter q, which quantifies the degree of nonextensivity of the system. A preliminary linear study is performed in order to compare the analytical results for the frequency and the damping rate of the electric oscillations, with the quantities obtained from the numerical simulations. In the nonlinear regime, the time evolution of the electric field amplitude shows how the non-Maxwellian shape of the equilibrium distribution function drastically modifies the energy exchange between wave and resonant particles and determines the saturation level of the electric field amplitude, in the long-time oscillating regime. A broad spectrum for the electrostatic oscillations is obtained in the case of the initial distribution functions with q<1, while in the case q>1 just a monochromatic component is visible.
Green’s function for a Schrödinger operator and some related summation formulas
Authors: von Keviczky Attila B. , Saad Nasser , Hall Richard L.
Published: June 2005

Summation formulas are obtained for products of associated Lagurre polynomials by means of the Green’s function K for the Hamiltonian H0=−d2∕dx2+x2+Ax−2 (A>0). K is constructed by an application of a Mercer-type theorem that arises in connection with integral equations. The approach introduced in this paper may be useful for the construction of wider classes of generating function.
Economic trends and drivers affecting the Wheatbelt of Western Australia to 2030
Authors: Kingwell Ross , Pannell David
Published: June 2005

Most of the farm businesses in Western Australia remain profitable, with rates of return comparable with non-farming sectors. However, there is continuing pressure on poor-performing farms, as well as a range of social pressures, which mean that there will continue to be a steady fall in the number of farms in the Wheatbelt of Western Australia. Most remaining farms will continue to be profitable, due in significant part to successful research and development (R&D). Farms will continue to be highly diversified. We expect the real prices of most agricultural commodities to continue to fall, although we note predictions for meat prices to rise in the medium to long-term. Key uncertainties about price trends include: future levels of agricultural protection in developed counties; the levels of price premia for ‘green’ products; the rates of productivity improvement for agriculture in developing countries; and energy prices. Key uncertainties about R&D/technology include the availability of funds for R&D, and the contributions of biotechnologies. Use of information technologies will increase, although not as much as some expect, and in some cases driven by shortages of skilled farm labour rather than production advantages. The fundamental elements of managing a farm have altered little, and we do not expect them to change in the next 30 years. Successful farm management will continue to depend largely on good decisions about the farm’s enterprise mix, machinery replacement, land leasing or purchase, labour hiring, and off-farm investments. Agricultural R&D should continue to address a diversified portfolio of issues, including attention to environmental issues, but not neglecting the need for ongoing productivity improvements in agriculture.
Futures for the Wheatbelt—Is 2030 already here?
Authors: McKenzie Fiona Haslam , Stehlik Daniela
Published: June 2005

The Western Australian Wheatbelt has experienced significant social, economic, and environmental changes over the last 25 years, which have affected the viability of the broadacre farm businesses that dominate the Wheatbelt economy as well as the efficacy of the communities that have supported the agricultural industry. This paper considers the consequences of these changes and how the agricultural industry and the people living in the Wheatbelt region have responded to the challenges. As well, the future of the region is considered, based on potential market and capacity building alternatives. It is contended that many of the social, economic, and environmental indicators of the future have been in place for some time and that industry diversification and social options are already being trialled. It would appear that industry and individual resilience and creativity are keys for the Wheatbelt’s survival in the future.
Acute exercise stress and electrical stimulation influence the consumer perception of sheep meat eating quality and objective quality traits
Authors: Warner R. D. , Ferguson D. M. , McDonagh M. B. , Channon H. A. , Cottrell J. J. , Dunshea F. R.
Published: June 2005

The effects of acute exercise stress and electrical stimulation on lamb eating quality and objective measurements of quality were evaluated on the Longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LTL) and the Gluteus medius (GM) muscles. Meat quality attributes were also assessed on the LTL, Semimembranosus (SM) and the Semispinalis capitis (SC) muscles. Forty-eight Poll Dorset × Border Leicester–Merino ewes of about 6 months old were randomly allocated to treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial design, with the respective factors being exercise (Ex, 0 v. 15 min) and post-slaughter low voltage electrical stimulation (control v. ES). In general, exercise reduced the rate of pH fall and increased the ultimate pH of all 3 muscles (P<0.05). This effect was more pronounced in the SM than in the LTL and SC. Exercised LTL and SM muscles also had lower surface lightness (L*) values and higher muscle total water content, indicating an increased incidence of dark cutting meat. Exercised LTL steaks were rated higher for tenderness and juiciness by the taste panelists and had lower Warner-Bratzler shear force values, as is often observed with high ultimate pH meat. Electrical stimulation reduced initial pH (pH0.5) values, but resulted in a slower rate of pH fall in the LTL and SM thereafter. Electrical stimulation resulted in an elevation of temperature at rigor in the SM by 10°C (15 v. 25°C) and in the LTL by 3.1°C (7.4 v. 10.5°C). While no effect of electrical stimulation was observed with instrumental analysis, electrical stimulation reduced sensory tenderness scores and overall liking for the GM, and tended to reduce flavour and juiciness of both the GM and LTL. In conclusion, acute exercise pre-slaughter improved eating quality, but caused dark cutting meat. The negative effect of low voltage stimulation on the eating quality of the GM was probably due to a high rigor temperature and associated heat toughening.
Spatial and temporal variability of nitrogen dynamics in an upland stream before and after a drought
Authors: Baldwin D. S. , Rees G. N. , Mitchell A. M. , Watson G.
Published: June 2005

In the current study, we explore the spatial and temporal variability of ammonia, nitrate and urea dynamics in an upland stream before and after a major drying event, using short-term nitrogen additions to benthic chambers. The potential for an initial flush of mineral nitrogen from re-wetted sediments following a prolonged period of drying was also assessed. The distribution of dissolved nitrogen species at four sites spaced along a 1-km reach of the stream were quite variable over time but, in general, not between sites. Conversely, sediment nitrogen dynamics were spatially variable. For example, in one instance, sediments from the uppermost site were a net sink for ammonia, whereas the sediments immediately downstream (separated from the first site by a small sand bar) were a net source of ammonia; with measured sediment fluxes up to ~2 µg N m−2 s−1. In general, the short-term addition of nitrate, ammonia or urea did not substantially affect the sediment nitrogen dynamics. After ~3 months of in situ drying, upon re-wetting, the sediments from all sites immediately produced pulses of ammonia, nitrate and, to a substantially lesser extent, urea. The rates of release of nitrogen were spatially variable, with up to an order of magnitude difference in the rate of release of ammonia from re-wetted sediments from the same small pool. Some differences were observed between nitrogen dynamics before and after drying but a causal linkage could not be established.
First tests of hybrid acoustic/archival tags on squid and cuttlefish
Authors: Jackson George D. , O'Dor Ron K. , Andrade Yanko
Published: June 2005

This study demonstrates the simultaneous use of acoustic and archival tags for obtaining data for near-shore species. Australian giant cuttlefish Sepia apama (off Whyalla, South Australia) and the tropical squid Sepioteuthis lessoniana (off Magnetic Island, Queensland, Australia) were tagged using a ‘hybrid’ tag consisting of a Vemco V8 acoustic tag potted with a Vemco minilog temperature–depth archival tag. Four of these animals were released and monitored inside radio-acoustic-positioning-telemetry (RAPT) buoy-system arrays that included bottom-mounted sensors that transmitted independent temperature records and a reference standard for sound conductivity and position. All were subsequently located out of RAPT range and two of the four archival tags were recovered. Tags were located using a boat-mounted hydrophone and VR60 receiver and recovery was aided by a diver operating a hand-held VUR96 receiver. This technology provides a cost-effective alternative to expensive satellite pop-up tags and is suitable for much smaller species that return to near-shore environments.
Reduction of Postincisional Allodynia by Subcutaneous Bupivacaine
Authors: Duarte Adriana M. , Pospisilova Eva , Reilly Erin , Mujenda Florence , Hamaya Yoshihiro , Strichartz Gary R.
Published: June 2005

Background

An incision of hairy skin of the rat's back provides a new model for postincisional pain to determine the importance of cutaneous anesthesia.

Methods

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized with sevoflurane and given a 0.6-ml subcutaneous injection of bupivacaine (0.25%) under the incision site or the medial lumbar dorsum or at the nuchal midline, 30 min before a 1.0-cm skin incision. Mechanical stimuli (von Frey hairs, 18-250 mN) were applied to measure nociception, indicated by twitching of local subcutaneous muscles, the cutaneus trunci muscle reflex. A graded response score, averaging the twitches weighted by their vigor, or a population response score, measuring the fraction of rats that showed any response, was assessed for 3 days before and over 7 days after incision. von Frey hairs were applied 0.5 cm from the incision to test primary hyperalgesia and 2.0 cm contralateral to the incision for secondary hyperalgesia.

Results

Incision induced responses to stimuli that had no effect on intact skin (allodynia) and also enhanced responses to forces that normally gave less than the full reflex (hyperalgesia). Hyperalgesia was present 30 min after surgery, peaked at 3-6 h, and persisted through the week; allodynia had a similar onset but was briefer. Both changes were transiently reversed by subcutaneous morphine (2.5 mg/kg intraperitoneal). Subcutaneous bupivacaine (0.25%), injected preoperatively at the incision site and anesthetizing skin for 2-3 h, suppressed primary allodynia for 1 week but had no effect on hyperalgesia. Secondary allodynia was obliterated, and secondary hyperalgesia attenuated by this treatment. Bupivacaine injected subcutaneously at the nuchal midline before surgery was also effective in abbreviating primary and secondary allodynia, with no signs of sedation, ataxia, or preconvulsive behavior.

Conclusions

Incision of rat hairy skin changes pain responses, similar to pain in humans. Preincisional subcutaneous bupivacaine selectively suppresses and shortens allodynia for times far outlasting its local anesthesia, an effect largely from systemic actions.
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy and its impact on clinical outcome in HIV-infected patients
Authors: Ferguson N.M , Donnelly C.A , Hooper J , Ghani A.C , Fraser C , Bartley L.M , Rode R.A , Vernazza P , Lapins D , Mayer S.L , Anderson R.M
Published: June 2005

We analyse data on patient adherence to prescribed regimens and surrogate markers of clinical outcome for 168 human immunodeficiency virus infected patients treated with antiretroviral therapy. Data on patient adherence consisted of dose-timing measurements collected for an average of 12 months per patient via electronic monitoring of bottle opening events. We first discuss how such data can be presented to highlight suboptimal adherence patterns and between-patient differences, before introducing two novel methods by which such data can be statistically modelled. Correlations between adherence and subsequent measures of viral load and CD4
+
T-cell counts are then evaluated. We show that summary measures of short-term adherence, which incorporate pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data on the monitored regimen, predict suboptimal trends in viral load and CD4
+
T-cell counts better than measures based on adherence data alone.
Innovation in large versus small companies: insights from the US wood products industry
Authors: Wagner Ernesto R. , Hansen Eric N.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Aims to explain the effect of firm size on company innovation inside one industry context: the wood products industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The strategic issues under study (innovation, corporate strategy) are typically managed by the firm's top executives. Also important is the fact that the response rates of questionnaires targeting this group are generally very low. Consistently, the data for the project were obtained from 43 in‐person interviews with top executives of wood products companies of different sizes in two countries, i.e. the USA and Chile.

Findings

Finds that firm size does impact the innovation type pursued by companies, at least in the wood products industry. Indeed, large companies of this study clearly outrun smaller companies in process innovation. However, our analysis also shows that small companies level the field with larger companies when considering all three innovation types (process, product, business systems).

Practical implications

The capital enjoyed by large companies allows them to excel in process innovation. This article suggests that managers of small companies should compete in a different arena from large companies and emphasize product and business systems innovation, as they can do very well in these areas even with limited resources.

Originality/value

There is very little research about innovation in the wood products industry. This article contributes to the knowledge in this area, also providing new insights about the validity of Schumpeter's assertions regarding the role of company size in innovation.
Autonomous welding of large steel fabrications
Authors: Mulligan Stephen , Melton Geoff , Lylynoja Ari , Herman Keith
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Development and demonstration of an autonomous, mobile welding robot capable of fabricating large‐scale customised structures.

Design/methodology/approach

An autonomous welding robot has been developed under the EC Framework V Growth program. The system comprises a global vision system for part location and orientation, and a robot transport vehicle (RTV) which carries a 6‐axis robot, robot controller, welding equipment, and local sensors at the welding torch. The RTV path, robot arm motion and weld process programming are performed automatically using sensors and specially customised simulation software.

Findings

The technology developed within the project was demonstrated, in November 2004, to be capable of identifying and welding large scale customised structures as found in the earth moving equipment and bridge fabrication industries.

Research limitations/implications

The project demonstrated that current sensor technology is capable of being applied successfully to autonomous robots, but further developments in sensor technology are required to improve accuracy and joint access.

Practical implications

The NOMAD concept of autonomous mobile robots provides an alternative solution to welding mass customised structures.

Originality/value

This project demonstrated, for the first time, the capability of autonomous robots to weld large scale customised structures.
Prospects of GSM technology for academic library services
Authors: Catherine Fatoki Olayinka
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Poor telecommunication infrastructure has been generally identified as a hindrance to most library activities in Nigeria. However, with the emergence and spread of wireless technologies, especially the global system of mobile communications (GSM), this paper seeks to consider the implications of this event on library services, with suggestions on the possible applications to academic libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

A background study of information and communication technology status past and present in Nigeria was carried out, especially the impact of wireless technologies on the global scale and in the country.

Findings

The GSM technologies acceptance and growth rate among the Nigerian populace has serious and great potentials for enhancing the communication and information technology‐related services in libraries and information centers in Nigeria. However, information managers need to fully exploit the opportunities presented by this relatively new phenomenon with a view to providing improved products and services to the library users, especially in the academic sector.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the use of GSM technologies library services. It targets librarians and information managers who have been limited in the past by inadequate telephone/telecommunications infrastructure. Encourages the professionals to exploit the opportunities presented by these expanding technologies.
Information technology applications to cataloguing in Nigerian university libraries
Authors: Oduwole A.A.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

The study aims to examine the information technology used in cataloguing in Nigerian academic libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

To elicit the necessary information, a four‐part questionnaire was sent to cataloguers in 33 Nigerian university libraries: 22 were returned and found usable, constituting a 66.7 per cent response.

Findings

Analysis of the returned questionnaire revealed that 16 federal universities and two state universities have automated their cataloguing processes using the TINLIB software, while two others use the LC and CD‐ROM database to aid the cataloguing. Automation of the cataloguing process has increased the efficiency of the cataloguing processes in the Nigerian university libraries, which in turn has resulted in increased productivity. The high cost of maintenance of the TINLIB software was identified as the major constraint to the use of the software. Other constraints include poor computer literacy on the part of the librarians, incessant power‐cuts and lack of infrastructures.

Practical implications

The study recommends that librarians be consulted before acquisition of software by the government, retraining of librarians in software use, acquisition and wider use of the X‐LIB software developed by the Raw Materials Research and Development Council Library, Abuja, Nigeria and provision of standby electricity generators solely for library use.

Originality/value

Offers recommendations to improve application of information technology to cataloguing activities in Nigerian university libraries.
Strengthening information provision in Nigerian university libraries through information communication technologies
Authors: Okiy R.B.
Published: June 2005

Purpose

To review the current state of information communication technologies (ICT) application for information provision in Nigerian university libraries and make suggestions to enable them take fuller advantage of ICT facilities to provide information more effectively to users.

Design/methodology/approach

Recent library and information science literature on university libraries and ICT application in Nigeria is reviewed to expose the state‐of‐the‐art and hence the problems which beset the university libraries in Nigeria as regards ICT application.

Findings

Identified obstacles militating against effective application of ICT in university libraries to include inadequate funding, inadequate electricity supply, shortage of competent manpower for operation and maintenance of ICT facilities, lukewarm attitude of the Nigerian government towards the provision of ICT facilities and low level of computer literacy among Nigerians.

Research limitations/implications

Physical visits were not paid to the university libraries; conclusions drawn are based on experience and evidence from current librarianship literature on Nigeria.

Practical implications

A very useful source of information on how to ameliorate the problem of low level of ICT application for information provision in university libraries in Nigeria.

Originality/value

Provides very useful and practical suggestions to enable university libraries in Nigeria take advantage of ICT facilities to provide information more effectively to their users. These include massive infusion of funds into purchase of ICT facilities, provision of constant electricity supply, greater commitment of university library staff to computerization efforts in their libraries, training and retraining opportunities for librarians in computer literacy and involvement of libraries in cooperative acquisition of electronic information resources through consortia.
Dimensions of service quality in developed and developing economies: multi‐country cross‐cultural comparisons
Authors: Malhotra Naresh K. , Ulgado Francis M. , Agarwal James , Shainesh G. , Wu Lan
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Despite the rapid growth and internationalization of services, marketers of services realize that to successfully leverage service quality as a global competitive tool, they first need to correctly identify the antecedents of what the international consumer perceives as service “quality.” This paper aims to examine the differences in perception of service quality dimensions between developed and developing economies.

Design/methodology/approach

Parasuraman et al. proposed a framework consisting of ten determinants or dimensions of service quality: reliability, access, understanding of the customer, responsiveness, competence, courtesy, communication, credibility, security, and tangible considerations. The authors propose 14 hypotheses emphasizing differences in the perception of these dimensions between developed and developing economies by linking these with economic and socio‐cultural factors. Extensive survey data are collected in the context of banking services from three countries: USA, India, and the Philippines and statistically tested using multivariate analysis of variance.

Findings

Of the 14 hypotheses, 13 were supported (five partially) in that the results for the USA were systematically and significantly different from those for India and the Philippines in the predicted direction.

Research limitations/implications

While almost all of the hypotheses are supported, future research should look at multiple service sectors and include alternative service quality models to further validate this study.

Practical implications

Despite limitations, current results have significant implications for international marketing in service strategy formulation, service development, pricing, communications, and service delivery.

Originality/value

International service managers need to understand the value of environmental differences between countries in terms of economic development and cultural value system and accordingly emphasize the various dimensions of service quality differentially.
The analysis of antecedents of customer loyalty in the Turkish mobile telecommunication market
Authors: Aydin Serkan , Özer Gökhan
Published: June 2005

Purpose

Corporate image, perceived service quality, trust and customer switching costs are the major antecedents of customer loyalty, and loyal customers may buy more, accept higher prices and have a positive word‐of‐mouth effect. Also we know that the cost of selling to new customers is much higher than the cost of selling to existing customers. Although this fact is apparent to everyone, many companies are still losing customers at a formidable rate. In this context the main aim of this paper is to examine the relationships between these factors and customer loyalty, and the relationships among these factors in the Turkish GSM sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was obtained from 1,662 mobile phone users in Turkey via questionnaire. The data was analyzed by structural equation modeling (SEM) in order to test all the relationships between variables in the model.

Findings

The findings supported the proposed hypotheses, which are consistent with the theoretical framework. Analysis results showed that perceived service quality is a necessary but not sufficient condition for customer loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

In order to generalize the findings from the paper, the model should be studied in different sectors. The contribution of this paper is to model all the relationships between customer loyalty and its antecedents, and to test these relationships simultaneously.

Practical implications

In order to better understand customer loyalty, as well as perceived service quality, corporate image, perceived switching costs and trust should be taken into consideration. Lately, technological change has shifted competition in the GSM sector from price and core service to value‐added services. Therefore, operators should differentiate their services and guarantee their services' quality because of this shift in competition.

Originality/value

In this paper, the effects of all the factors on customer loyalty are analyzed simultaneously via SEM.