bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) grazing damage on the growth, botanical composition and yield of a ryegrass re‐seed
Authors: BELL A. C. , BYRNE P. M. , WATSON S.
Published: February 2008

A perennial ryegrass sward was established in the autumn of 1989 in an enclosed 0.3 ha site and was exposed to captive wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) grazing. Rabbit numbers were varied from 16 rabbits ha‐1 in winter to 55 rabbits ha‐1 corresponding to natural fluctuations in the field. The original sward was grown for three seasons (1989/1990 to 1990/1991) and a range of grazing regimes imposed. In 1989/1990 four grazing regimes were arranged in a replicated split block design in the experimental area. These were ungrazed, winter grazed, spring grazed and totally grazed. In the second year of the experiment all plots were exposed to grazing with the exception of the originally protected plots. This was to examine the effects of longer‐term grazing damage on a ryegrass sward. In the final year half of all treatments were protected to study recovery of a sward which had been damaged previously. The remainder of the plots were exposed to grazing.

Three cuts were harvested in each year and the productivity assessed in terms of yield and botanical composition. There was a significant reduction in ryegrass proportion in grazed swards following the first winter of grazing, while clover, other grasses and weeds were enhanced. The promotion of clover content in grazed swards was a feature throughout the 3 yr of the study. In the second year, protection of grazed swards led to a restoration of yields, although the botanical composition remained altered. The exposure of previously ungrazed plots in the final year of the experiment showed that these swards were particularly attractive to rabbits and they suffered the greatest yield losses relative to the protected plots at the first cut in 1991. In this year dry weather conditions were experienced following the first cut and demonstrated that yield losses are exacerbated when rabbit grazing is compounded with adverse growing conditions. The results overall indicate that protection of ryegrass swards at the establishment phase is important, but that a degree of recovery is possible by providing protection at a later stage, although the ryegrass component is still impaired in swards which suffer early damage.
Production of Bean yellow mosaic virus resistant subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) plants by transformation with the virus coat protein gene
Authors: CHU P. W. G. , ANDERSON B. J. , KHAN M. R. I. , SHUKLA D. , HIGGINS T. J. V.
Published: February 2008

Transgenic lines of subterranean clover were constructed that contained three different Bean yellow mosaic virus (BYMV) coat protein (CP) gene constructs; full‐length CP, the core region of the CP, and full‐length CP plus the 3′ untranslated region of the viral genome. Transgenic plants containing the full‐length and core CP gene constructs showed high and moderate levels of BYMV resistance. Resistance was measured as a lack or amelioration of viral disease symptoms, which was correlated with a reduction in virus levels and yield loss. A range of different resistance phenotypes was observed. They included reduced infection rates, delay and reduction in local lesion development, and delay and reduction in severity of systemic symptom development. Resistance levels were not correlated with transgene mRNA levels and no transgene‐encoded protein was detected in any of the transgenic lines. This is the first example of genetically engineered virus resistance in a clover.
Interactive effect of salt (NaCl) and nitrogen form on growth, water relations and photosynthetic capacity of sunflower (Helianthus annum L.)
Authors: ASHRAF M.
Published: February 2008

The effects of the ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3‐) forms of nitrogen and NaCl on the growth, water relations and photosynthesis performance of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) were examined under glasshouse conditions. Eight‐day‐old plants of cv. Hisun 33 were subjected for 21 days to Hoagland's nutrient solution containing 8 mol m‐3N as NH4+or NO3‐, and salinised with 0, 60, or 120 mol m‐3NaCl. Fresh weights of shoots and roots, and leaf area of NO3‐supplied non‐salinised plants were significantly greater than those of NH4+‐supplied non‐salinised plants. But addition of NaCl to the rooting medium of these plants had more inhibitory effect on the growth of NO3‐‐supplied plants than on NH4+‐supplied plants. Both leaf water and osmotic potentials of plants grown with NH4+were lower than those of plants given NO3‐under both non‐saline and saline conditions. Chlorophylls a and b concentrations were higher in plants grown with NH4+than N03‐‐supplied plants at the lower two levels of salinisation. The rate of photosynthesis in plants was considerably higher in non‐salinised plants grown with NO3‐than with NH4+, but with increase in salinisation the photosynthesis rate decreased in NO3‐‐supplied plants, but not in those given NH4+. The rate of transpiration was increased significantly by salinisation in NO3‐‐supplied plants, but not consistently so in NH4+‐supplied plants. The stomatal conductances were much higher in plants given NO3‐than with NH4+when grown under non‐saline conditions, but not when salinised. As a consequence, water‐use efficiency in NO3‐‐supplied control plants was better than in NH4+‐supplied under non‐saline conditions, but worse under saline conditions. The different forms of nitrogen and the addition of NaCl to the growing medium did not affect the relative intercellular concentrations of CO2 (Ci/Ca). Overall, the NH4+form of nitrogen inhibited the growth of sunflowers under non‐saline conditions, but NO3‐and NaCl interacted to inhibit growth more than did NH4+under saline conditions.
Epidemiology of Leptosphaeria maculans in relation to forecasting stem canker severity on winter oilseed rape in the UK
Authors: WEST J. S. , BIDDULPH J. E. , FITT B. D. L. , GLADDERS P.
Published: February 2008

In the UK, ascospores of Leptosphaeria maculans first infect leaves of oilseed rape in the autumn to cause phoma leaf spots, from which the fungus can grow to cause stem cankers in the spring. Yield losses due to early senescence and lodging result if the stem cankers become severe before harvest. The risk of severe stem canker epidemics needs to be forecast in the autumn when the pathogen is still in the leaves, since early infections cause the greatest yield losses and fungicides have limited curative activity. Currently, the most effective way to forecast severe stem canker is to monitor the onset of phoma leaf spotting in winter oilseed rape crops, although this does not allow much time in which to apply a fungicide. Early warnings of risks of severe stem canker epidemics could be provided at the beginning of the season through regional forecasts based on disease survey and weather data, with options for input of crop‐specific information and for updating forecasts during the winter. The accuracy of such forecasts could be improved by including factors relating to the maturation of ascospores in pseudothecia, the release of ascospores and the occurrence of infection conditions, as they affect the onset, intensity and duration of the phoma leaf spotting phase. Accurate forecasting of severe stem canker epidemics can improve disease control and optimise fungicide use.
Effects of cyromazine and abamectin on the leafminer, Liriomyza huidobrensis and its parasitoid, Diglyphus isaea in celery
Authors: WEINTRAUB PHYLLIS G.
Published: February 2008

Field trials were conducted for 2 yr on celery (Apium graveolens L.) to determine the effects of two translaminar insecticides (abamectin and cyromazine) on the agromyzid leafminer, Liriomyza huidobrensis (Blanchard), and the eulophid parasitoid, Diglyphus isaea Walker. Abamectin and cyromazine were applied once early in the growing season by spray or drip application. Yellow sticky traps and leaf samples were used to monitor population levels; a gas chromatograph‐mass spectrometer was used to monitor cyromazine residues within the celery plants during 1 yr. Spray applications of abamectin and cyromazine significantly reduced larval leafminers and D. isaea. Contrary to grower practices, application of cyromazine by drip irrigation systems had minor effects on larval leafminer and D. isaea as compared to spray application. Cyromazine residues in the plants treated by spray application declined sharply after 1 wk, and no residues were detected 2 wk after application; less than 0.05 ppm cyromazine residues were detected in plants treated by drip application. Implications of these results on management practices are discussed.
Host‐plant susceptibility to the carrot fly, Psila rosae. 1. Acceptability of various host species to ovipositing females
Authors: DEGEN THOMAS , STÄDLER ERICH , ELLIS P R
Published: February 2008

A preference hierarchy of the oligophagous carrot fly for 30 umbelliferous host‐plant species or varieties and six non‐hosts was assessed. Foliage of the test plants was presented to a laboratory population of the fly in oviposition choice experiments together with leaves of a standard plant, the susceptible carrot cultivar “Danvers”. Only two species (Anthriscus cerefolium, Carum carvi) were more acceptable than the standard plant, while about half the species received significantly fewer eggs. Some umbellifers (Anethum graveolens, Pimpinella major) had a low acceptability similar to that of non‐hosts (non‐umbelliferous plants). The results obtained with dual and multiple choice assays were in agreement. A multiple choice assay with potted plants yielded a similar ranking of the species as assays using detached leaves, indicating that foliage is representative for whole plants. Variability in the exploratory runs performed by the females on the leaves prior to egg‐laying is described and quantified for hosts and non‐hosts. Differences in post‐alighting pre‐ovipositional behaviour of the female flies on the leaves accounted for a major part of the variation recorded in egg‐laying.
Somatic chromosome number doubling of selected potato genotypes using callus culture or the colchicine treatment of shoot nodes in vitro
Authors: MAINE M J DE , SIMPSON GAIL
Published: February 2008

Experiments were carried out to double the somatic cell chromosome numbers of a monoploid and dihaploid of Solanum tuberosum and a genotype of S. circaeifolium subsp. quimense. Colchicine was used in vitro on shoot nodes from which the axillary meristems had been removed. Plants with doubled chromosome numbers were obtained from shoots grown from the tertiary, sub‐axillary meristems of all three genotypes. The callus culture of stem and leaf explants was found to produce more shoots with doubled chromosome numbers than the colchicine treatment in the case of the dihaploid and quimense genotypes but no shoots were obtained from callus culture of the monoploid.

Fifty‐two % of the shoots from the dihaploid and 63% from the quimense clone were ploidy doubled in the case of the best callus culture system. Using a sub‐lethal dose of colchicine, the dihaploid yielded 37% ploidy‐doubled shoots whereas all the shoots produced from the monoploid were doubled and the quimense clone produced 27% doubled plants.

Callus culture was highly dependent upon the type of growth medium and other, unknown, factors. The colchicine treatment, although yielding fewer products, was more reliable for achieving ploidy doubling in selected clones if the number of plants produced is not important.
The development of an action threshold for cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae) in oilseed rape in the UK
Authors: ELLIS S A , OAKLEY J N , PARKER W E , RAW K.
Published: February 2008

Replicated small plot field experiments were done at two sites growing winter oilseed rape (ADAS Boxworth, Cambridgeshire and ADAS High Mowthorpe, North Yorkshire) and two sites growing spring oilseed rape (ADAS Bridgets, Hampshire and ADAS Rosemaund, Herefordshire) to investigate the effect of cabbage aphid (Brevicoryne brassicae) on crop yield and quality. All four sites were included in the first 2 yr of the experiment in 1994 and 1995 but only those with winter oilseed rape were continued into the final year in 1996. Plots were artificially inoculated with cabbage aphids at either five aphid 4 m‐2 or 5 aphids 16 m‐2 or left uninoculated to become naturally infested. In 1995 and 1996 the naturally infested treatment was omitted. Sprays of the aphicide pirimicarb at GS 3.3, 3.7, 4.5, 4.9 and 5.5 were used to manipulate aphid populations. Once a plot had been treated at a target growth stage it was sprayed on all subsequent occasions to prevent recolonisation. Aphid numbers were assessed prior to each spray date and their effect on the crop measured in terms of yield of seed and oil and glucosinolate content. Artificial inoculation of aphids was often successful in establishing different populations of the pest at a range of growth stages. Results showed that cabbage aphid sometimes reduced both crop yield and quality. Yield responses to insecticide treatment tended to be larger in spring oilseed rape than in winter oilseed rape mainly because it became more heavily infested at an early growth stage. Tentative thresholds are proposed for control of the pest in both winter and spring oilseed rape. It is stressed that cabbage aphid is a sporadic pest and rarely likely to reach these threshold levels in field crops.
Comparison of responses of ascospores and mycelium by ELISA with anti‐mycelium and anti‐ascospore antisera for the development of a method to detect Sclerotinia sclerotiorum on petals of oilseed rape
Authors: JAMAUX‐DESPRÉAUX ISAB E LLE , SPIRE DIDIER
Published: February 2008

The goal of this project was the development of a serological test for the detection of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum on oilseed rape petals. Since the fungus exists in two forms on petals, as ascospores and mycelium, the responses of anti‐mycelium and anti‐ascospore antisera against these two kinds of antigens were compared. Two anti‐mycelium sera, Smy and Smy', were produced against mycelial soluble extracts at different concentrations (0.3 mg and 0.1 mg of protein ml‐1). Smy gave the greatest response level with eight S. sclerotiorum mycelial extracts tested. It had a very superior level of recognition to that of anti‐ascospore serum, Ssp, when mycelium was tested as antigen. In contrast, Ssp and Smy were equally reactive when exposed to ascospores but the sensitivity of the assay was low. For each antiserum, the solution from which ascospores had been removed reacted similarly to the original suspension containing ascospores. A collection of fungi likely to be found on oilseed rape petals was examined. Cross‐reactions were produced with both antisera, especially with Botrytis cinerea for which greater cross‐reactivities were produced with Smy. The cross‐absorption of antiserum Smy with a mycelial extract of B. cinerea considerably reduced this cross‐reaction. The choice of antiserum for the development of a reliable detection system is discussed.
Basal fertiliser application method, tuber initiation nitrogen, foliar NPK and the tolerance of potatoes to infection by the potato cyst nematodes Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida
Authors: GROVE I G , HAYDOCK P P J , EVANS K. , LEWIS D J
Published: February 2008

The effects of broadcast granular, placed liquid and foliar fertilisers on the tolerance of potatoes to infection by potato cyst nematodes were investigated. The tolerance of the potato cv. Pentland Dell was not significantly improved by fertiliser application type but placed liquid fertiliser, with or without foliar applications, increased the concentrations of N, P and K measured in whole plant dry matter of PCN infected plants. The tolerance of the potato cv. Sante was not statistically improved by altering the balance of fertiliser nitrogen applications between planting and tuber initiation or by applying foliar nitrogen. Nitrogen applications of 120 kg N ha‐1 at planting and a further 120 kg N ha‐1 at tuber initiation supplemented with foliar N, however, achieved a larger tuber yield than the same nitrogen programme without foliar N and gave a significantly greater yield than the application of 240 kg N ha‐1 at planting plus foliar N. The emergence of both cultivars was delayed in the absence of oxamyl. N, P and K concentrations within whole plant dry matter were significantly higher in plants from oxamyl treated plots and both N and K concentrations were significantly increased by increasing the quantity of N at planting, at 56 DAP. Splitting the fertiliser N between planting and tuber initiation appears to be important in maintaining the availability of this nutrient to PCN infected plants throughout the season.
Effects of sulphur dioxide preservation of flax straw on fibre components and microbial colonisation during dew‐retting
Authors: SHARMA H S S , McCALL R D , FAUGHEY G. , LYONS G.
Published: February 2008

The changes in flax straw structure when treated with sulphur dioxide (SO2) and consequent effect on dew‐retting of the treated straw were investigated. The active oxoanions released by sulfurous acid degraded phenolics bound to the polysaccharides and lipids leading to an increase in water‐soluble carbohydrates and polyphenols. As a result, proportions of hemicellulose, nitrogen, sulphur, ash and caustic weight loss were higher in treated straw while lipid was reduced. The coarseness of treated fibre was possibly caused by in situ dryback of the hydrolysed polysaccharides. The deposition of salts containing high concentrations of sulphur, calcium and potassium in the vicinity of the fibre bundles and epidermal layer was observed and investigated. In a dew‐retting trial comprising SO2‐treated and untreated samples, the SO2 treatment delayed microbial colonisation and, consequently, retting by nearly 2 wk compared to the controls. The changes in pH, fungal population and polysaccharide degrading enzymes were monitored. The differences in fibre yield, fineness and strength are presented.
The response of alpha‐amylase activity during wheat grain development to nitrogen fertiliser
Authors: KETTLEWELL P S
Published: February 2008

The aim of this study was to test whether the effect of nitrogen fertiliser on Hagberg falling number of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum) grain in the absence of sprouting is mediated by pre‐maturity alpha‐amylase activity and is related to grain drying rate. A field experiment with two cultivars (Avalon and Mercia) in 1990 and 1991 compared four application rates of nitrogen. Samples of grain were taken at intervals during development for moisture determination and alpha‐amylase assay. Grains from plots given nitrogen dried faster in both years, but alpha‐amylase activity and Hagberg falling number responded differently to nitrogen in the two years. In the warmer and drier year of 1990, alpha‐amylase activity declined throughout development leading to very high Hagberg falling number at harvest, with little effect of nitrogen. In the cooler and wetter year of 1991, alpha‐amylase activity declined until about 30% moisture. After this stage, alpha‐amylase activity increased in the absence of sprouting in grain from plots receiving little or no nitrogen. This resulted in a linear increase in Hagberg falling number in response to nitrogen fertiliser. Electrophoresis of alpha‐amylase isozymes indicated that the increase in Hagberg falling number in response to nitrogen was not mediated by a decrease in retained pericarp alpha‐amylase activity, but by a reduction in pre‐maturity alpha‐amylase activity. These results support the hypothesis that slow grain drying enhances pre‐maturity alpha‐amylase formation, and also support the hypothesis that an additional environmental factor varying between seasons is involved in pre‐maturity alpha‐amylase formation.
Effects of sheath tube length on leaf development in perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.)
Authors: CASEY I A , BRERETON A J , LAIDLAW A S , McGILLOWAY D A
Published: February 2008

Position in and contribution of leaf laminae to the canopy of forage grasses are important both in determining herbage growth rates and intake rate by grazing animals. These canopy characteristics are controlled by the way dry matter is apportioned between sheath and lamina in growing leaves. The objective of this work was to determine how the development of individual leaves is affected by altering the effective length of the psuedostem tube, on the assumption that the light environment within the tube varied. The development of a leaf from initiation at the apex to maturity was followed by successive destructive dissections of tillers. Vertical incisions were made in the pseudostem of each tiller to three different depths. The three treatments imposed were — no incision (control), moderate and severe incision of the sheath length. Destructive harvests of tillers followed 3, 6, 12 and 24 days after imposition of treatments. Incision resulted in the length of the monitored leaf being reduced significantly at all harvests, and differentiation of the sheath beginning earlier. The length reduction reflected a reduction in both cell size and cell number and the effects were evident at the earliest harvest. The data support the theory that leaf size and timing of onset of sheath development are influenced by the environment of the developing leaf. The present results indicate that sheath tube length affects leaf development and suggests that the effects are substantially explained by a direct light effect on the location and depth of the elongation zone.
The effects of thermotherapy and sodium hypochlorite treatments on pepino seed germination, a crucial step in breeding programmes
Authors: PROHENS J. , SOLER S. , NUEZ F.
Published: February 2008

We evaluated the effects of treatments with thermotherapy (80°C for 24 h) and dipping in sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl; 0.8% for 10 min) on the germination percentage, germination rate, vigour index and ToMV inactivation of seeds from three pepino (Solarium muricatum) accessions (96–5, B–2 and OV–8) and two wild relatives (S. tabanoense EC–26 and S. caripense EC–40). Thermotherapy decreased the germination percentage (especially in the wild species), germination rate in wild species but not in cultivated pepino, and vigour index in all cases. Sodium hypochlorite increased germination, except for nonthermotreated seeds of OV–8, improved the germination rate in wild species and the vigour index in all cases except for non thermotreated OV–8. Seed coats were altered by both treatments, especially by NaOCl. Thermotherapy was totally effective in the inactivation of seed‐borne ToMV, while NaOCl was not. Thermotherapy combined with NaOCl allows effective seed disinfection of S. muricatum seeds without negatively affecting seed germination. For the wild species, although thermotherapy reduces germination, the higher number of seeds per fruit in these species reduces the magnitude of the problem. Even when no disinfection is necessary, treatments with NaOCl are always advisable as they improve germination.
Phenological growth stages of loquat tree (Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.)
Authors: MARTÍNEZ‐CALVO J. , BADENES M L , LLÁCER G. , BLEIHOLDER H. , HACK H. , MEIER U.
Published: February 2008

Conservation, characterisation and utilisation of minor fruit tree species is an important objective for diversification of agro‐food production. One such fruit tree is the loquat, a tree that originated in China but is well adapted to the Mediterranean area. The conservation and utilisation of suitable germplasm requires an accurate characterisation and evaluation of the material. A first step in characterisation is to use phenotypic traits. This paper describes the phenological growth stages of loquat tree using the extended BBCH scale. Seven principal growth stages (PGS) for bud, leaf and shoot development, inflorescence emergence, flowering, fruit development and fruit maturity and 31 secondary growth stages are described and compared with a previous scale based on Fleckinger classical methodology. An example of application of the extended BBCH scale for characterisation of loquat cultivars from IVIA germplasm collection is reported.
Nutrition and mental health research in Australia and New Zealand: A review of progress and directions for the future
Authors: PORTER Judi , EVANS Sherryn
Published: February 2008

This review summarises nutrition and mental health research in Australia and New Zealand between 1986 and 2006. The method used to identify papers for inclusion was a search of computerised databases: Medline, Cinahl and Meditext 1986–2006, with subsequent bibliographical review. Key search words were nutrition, diet, mental disorder, mental illness, weight, physical health, Australia and New Zealand. Inclusion criteria included: English language, original data in peer reviewed journals, and examination of some component of nutrition in people with a mental illness. The review of thirteen papers found that the evidence base for dietetic practice in mental health has developed through small assessment and interventional research, often with multidisciplinary collaboration. Future research should include quality and outcome measures with intersectoral partnerships. Dietitians are well positioned to lead and participate in mental health research and to implement research findings to improve the nutritional status of this vulnerable group.
Eating disorder management in hospital patients: Current practice among dietitians in Australia
Authors: HART Susan , ABRAHAM Suzanne , LUSCOMBE Georgina , RUSSELL Janice
Published: February 2008

Aim:  To examine dietetic practice during the management of eating disorders in inpatient and daypatient settings.

Methods:  A survey was sent to dietitians working in the clinical management of eating disorders within Australia. Thirty‐six qualified dietitians including all dietitians working at the specialist units in Australia participated in the study.

Results:  Most dietitians aim to meet patients' nutritional requirements by food alone without artificial feeding. High‐energy supplements are the preferred method of increasing energy intake to eating disorder patients. Nasogastric feeding was a standard feeding practice for anorexia nervosa reported by one‐third of dietitians. Total parenteral nutrition was not considered an option for nutritional rehabilitation. In the treatment of anorexia nervosa, variable energy intakes for individual patients were prescribed aiming for weight gain of up to 1.0 kg/week in inpatients and 0.5 kg/week in outpatients.

Conclusion:  In Australia, there is no standard nutritional management for anorexia and bulimia nervosa. This survey establishes a baseline for nutritional management and practice of dietitians working with patients with eating disorders. Further research is needed regarding use of nasogastric feeding, and weight gain targets in anorexia nervosa.
From competent to proficient; nutrition education and counselling competency dilemmas experienced by Australian clinical dietitians in education of individuals
Authors: CANT Robyn , ARONI Rosalie
Published: February 2008

Aim:  To critically examine Australian dietitians' experiences of nutrition education and counselling dilemmas arising from their training, competence and experience in education of individual clients.

Methods:  Participants were a self‐selected sample of Australian dietitians who were working with clients in community, hospital, private practice or other employment. They responded to a researcher‐developed Web‐based questionnaire asking about skills required for education and counselling of individual clients in 2006. Data were collected electronically and descriptive statistics used to compare response distributions, and open‐ended responses were examined by content and thematic analysis.

Results:  Of 258 respondents, half‐qualified to enter dietetics since 1998. There was a change in the focus of practice from information‐giving (as taught 30 years ago) to use of two‐way communication. Dietitians aimed to use counselling, together with discussion and instruction, as methods for educating and interacting with clients. Four‐fifths of dietitians recently qualified (1998–2006) were satisfied with their initial preparation for nutrition education and counselling roles. However, many commented that training courses were too focused on knowledge acquisition rather than skills development in nutrition counselling. Planned skill development in employment was described and dietitians were in favour of a system of mandatory counselling topics within continuing professional development CPD in order to improve counselling skill proficiency and aim for expert skills.

Conclusion:  Practising dietitians' perceptions indicated a need for greater focus on development of expert nutrition education and counselling skills, both in initial training and in the workplace, because these were seen as key skills for practice in the 21st century.
Use of the Acute Care Hospital Foodservice Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire to monitor trends in patient satisfaction with foodservice at an acute care private hospital
Authors: FALLON Andrew , GURR Stephen , HANNAN‐JONES Mary , BAUER Judith D.
Published: February 2008

Aim:  To demonstrate how the Acute Care Hospital Foodservice Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire can be used to monitor trends in foodservice satisfaction.

Methods:  Three one‐day surveys of foodservice satisfaction were conducted in 2003–05. All adult hospital inpatients with the exception of intensive care, cardiac post‐operative care, labour ward and day surgery patients were eligible. The response rate was 48% (2003), 42% (2004) and 60% (2005). This took place in an acute care 440‐bed private hospital. Overall foodservice satisfaction, dimensions of foodservice satisfaction (food quality, meal service quality, staff/service issues and the physical environment) and two independent statements (temperature of the hot foods, ability to choose different sized meals); satisfaction by gender, length of stay, age, diet type and appetite for 2005. Scores were calculated for overall satisfaction, four dimensions of satisfaction and two independent statements. Chi‐squared analysis was used to determine the effect of gender, age, diet type and appetite on overall satisfaction. Correlation analysis was used to assess the association between overall foodservice satisfaction and length of stay.

Results:  Ratings of overall foodservice satisfaction, four dimensions of foodservice and two independent foodservice items were high, consistent with previous findings. Of the foodservice dimensions, the staff/service issues were the most positively rated and food quality the least positively rated. Patients' expectations of the foodservice were significantly associated with overall satisfaction. Quality improvement activities focused on the lowest scoring components of the questionnaire.

Conclusion:  The Acute Care Hospital Foodservice Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire can be used to determine trends in foodservice satisfaction and identify areas to target for quality improvement initiatives.
Evidence for a role of cow's milk consumption in chronic functional constipation in children: Systematic review of the literature from 1980 to 2006
Authors: CROWLEY Elesa , WILLIAMS Lauren , ROBERTS Tim , JONES Peter , DUNSTAN Richard
Published: February 2008

Aim:  This article examines the evidence for a role of cow's milk protein in chronic functional constipation in children.

Methods:  A literature search was conducted using Ovid and Pubmed, the Cochrane data bases, CINHAHL and EBSCO. Keywords searched included: constipation, cow's milk, intolerance, allergy, children and intestinal motility. This systematic review focused on dietary intervention studies in children (aged from 7 days to 15 years) with chronic functional constipation. All articles were required to include measures of cow's milk protein allergy or intolerance and include resolution of constipation as an outcome measure.

Results:  The keyword search identified 125 articles. Seven of these articles met the criteria for inclusion, including one double‐blind, randomised controlled trial. The results of this review provide support for the hypothesis that a proportion of children with chronic functional constipation respond well to the removal of cow's milk protein from the diet, particularly if serum analysis shows abnormalities of immune mechanisms.

Conclusion:  The evidence surrounding cow's milk constipation was limited with only one of the assessed studies being at level II of evidence according to the NHMRC. In order to develop evidence‐based guidelines, further high‐level evidence is required to clarify the physiological, immunological and biochemical changes that occur in some constipated children who respond to the removal of cow's milk protein from the diet.
Trauma‐induced central diabetes insipidus in a cat
Authors: Campbell FE , Bredhauer B
Published: February 2008

A 1‐year‐old neutered male domestic shorthair cat presented with a 4‐week history of polydipsia that began immediately after an 8 m fall. Trauma‐induced central diabetes insipidus was suspected on the basis of the identification of hyposthenuria, normal haematology and serum biochemistry profile and unremarkable abdominal ultrasound examination. Failure to concentrate urine with water deprivation followed by production of hypersthenuric urine with administration of the synthetic antidiuretic hormone, Damino‐8‐D‐arginine vasopressin (DDAVP), confirmed the diagnosis of central diabetes insipidus. Treatment via conjunctival administration of DDAVP failed to attenuate the polydipsia, however, resolution of polydipsia was achieved with subcutaneous administration of DDAVP and the cat remains eudipsic with twice daily subcutaneous DDAVP administration 17 months after diagnosis.
Effect of a hydrocolloid dressing on first intention healing surgical wounds in the dog: a pilot study
Authors: Abramo F , Argiolas S , Pisani G , Vannozzi I , Miragliotta V
Published: February 2008

Objectives To evaluate the efficacy of a hydrocolloid dressing for the treatment of surgical wounds in dogs.

Methods  Six healthy young female dogs of medium size and different breed underwent ovariohysterectomy. Histological evaluation was performed on biopsies taken from the edges of the wounds at day 7. The dressing was applied on one half of the wound according to manufacturer's instructions; the second half served as control. Biopsy specimens were fixed in a 10% formalin buffered solution pH 7.4, paraffin embedded and stained with haematoxylin and eosin. For clinical assessment, the presence and quality of exudate, erythema of the surrounding area, swelling and correct apposition of the wound margins were evaluated.

Results The hydrocolloid dressing was easy to use. The clinical quality of the treated skin wounds was superior to the non‐treated ones. Comparison of histological features between treated and untreated wounds showed a more regular organisation of the granulation tissue in the treated wounds, with fibroblasts being aligned parallel to the overlying epidermis. The number of inflammatory cells and the extension of granulation tissue were less prominent and less widespread in treated compared to untreated wounds.

Conclusion  The dressing performed very well in terms of adhesiveness and flexibility. It was useful in the management of surgical wounds to avoid contamination and ameliorate the epithelialisation rate and granulation tissue morphology of the surgical scar.
Effects of injectable vitamins A, D, E and C on the health and growth rate of feedlot cattle destined for the Australian domestic market
Authors: Cusack PMV , Mcmeniman NP , Lean IJ
Published: February 2008

Objective  To examine the effects of injectable vitamins A, D and E at feedlot entry on health and growth rate and the effects of injectable vitamin C at the time of treatment for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) on cattle health.

Design  Systematic allocation of 2465 cattle at feedlot entry to: a commercial vitamin A, D and E preparation at the label dose rate; commercial vitamin A, D and E at twice the label dose rate; a formulation with no vitamin D, a lower concentration of vitamin A and a higher concentration of vitamin E; and the oil‐based carrier alone at volumes corresponding to the above treatments. Comparisons of growth rate, disease and mortality were made between the groups at the conclusion of the feeding period. In a separate experiment, 176 cattle were alternately administered injectable vitamin C at the time of treatment for BRD, or were not injected with vitamin C, and mortality was compared between the groups.

Results  There were no differences between cattle administered vitamin A, D and E at feedlot entry and the controls in growth rate (P = 0.11), all diseases (P = 0.99), BRD (P = 0.60) or mortalities (P = 0.95). Cattle treated with the higher vitamin E and lower vitamin A preparation had a higher (P = 0.02) incidence of anorexia than the other groups. Fewer cattle treated with 5 g of vitamin C by intramuscular injection at the time of treatment with antibiotics for BRD subsequently died (P = 0.04).

Conclusions  The routine injection of cattle with vitamins A, D and E at feedlot entry is unlikely to result in improvements in health and growth rate where cattle are provided with these vitamins in their diets at concentrations equal to the National Research Council recommendations. Mortality rate in cattle diagnosed with BRD may be reduced by intramuscular injection of vitamin C at the time of treatment with antibiotics.
Cultural Citizenship
Authors: Pawley Laurence
Published: February 2008

This paper seeks to give a sense of the diversity of work that falls within the boundaries of ‘cultural citizenship’– a term it locates as emerging from the problematisation of traditional citizenship models by issues of identity and mediation. This paper outlines three distinct strands of cultural citizenship theory, which respectively emphasise multiculturalism, the politics of cultural texts, and dialogical communication. Subsequently, this paper conducts a brief analysis and critique of these strands, enabled by an interrogation of the ways in which they each define and deploy the term ‘culture’. It is argued that for cultural citizenship to develop a more coherent terminological ‘face’, a balance must be struck between a commitment to specificity, and the appeal of abstracted re‐imaginings of civil society.
Mating preference in the invasion of growth enhanced fish
Authors: Aikio Sami , Valosaari Kata‐Riina , Kaitala Veijo
Published: February 2008

Fish with a transgene for growth hormone grow faster than the wild type and may have an advantage in sexual selection due to their larger size and earlier maturation. The cost in these genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is a lower viability of their offspring. The Trojan gene effect is a hypothesis that predicts that the release of such fish in nature can lead to an invasion by GMOs but ultimately decrease population size to extinction. We modelled GMO invasion with Mendelian inheritance of two alleles in one locus and the resulting mating and population dynamics of wild, GMO and hybrid genotypes. Invasion was attempted over a range of initial densities, representing scenarios from accidental escape to large‐scale deliberate introduction of the transgenic genotype. Our results show that invasion strongly depends on hybrid fitness, requiring only a low initial density when GMOs and hybrids are preferred in mating. Preference against hybrids results in an invasion threshold, above which mating between GMOs are sufficiently frequent for invasion to take place. GMO invasion may decrease population size, but contrary to earlier studies on the Trojan gene effect, extinctions do not occur. This is due to the lower viability of GMOs being balanced by the decreased number of competitors reducing the effects of density dependence. The results emphasize the importance of initial density, hybrid fitness and density dependence when considering invasion through hybridization.
Coexisting congeners: demography, competition, and interactions with cardenolides for two milkweed‐feeding aphids
Authors: A. Mooney Kailen , Jones Patricia , A. Agrawal Anurag
Published: February 2008

Explaining the coexistence of closely related species sharing a single resource has been a long‐standing challenge in ecology. Here we report on studies comparing the aphidsAphis neriiandA. asclepiadisthat feed sympatrically on the milkweedAsclepias syriacain northeastern North America. We sought to identify tradeoffs among species’ attributes that might promote coexistence, but in most instancesA. neriiwas superior toA. asclepiadis.Aphis neriiwas 84% more fecund, fed upon 880% more phloem sap, and was affected 70% less by intraspecific competition as compared toA. asclepiadis. In interspecific competition,A. neriireducedA. asclepiadisabundance by 77%, whereasA. asclepiadisdid not affectA. nerii. In dispersal trials, 10% of wingedA. neriibut only 1% ofA. asclepiadissuccessfully moved from non‐host plants toA. syriaca. We also investigated whether there were differences in aphid interactions with milkweed cardenolides. Jasmonic acid increased milkweed cardenolides by 33%, a realistic amount similar to that induced by several leaf‐chewing herbivores. Nevertheless, jasmonate‐induced cardenolides failed to affect aphid performance and aphid feeding had no effect on milkweed cardenolide concentration. Yet cardenolides were important for aphid resistance to predators;A. neriisequestered 25% more cardenolides and was preyed upon 50% less thanA. asclepiadis. Interactions with cardenolides thus again favoredA. neriioverA. asclepiadis. Given thatA. neriiandA. asclepiadisare decidedly not equivalent in their demography, competitive ability, defense and dispersal, our results strongly refute the notion that neutral processes can explain coexistence of these aphids. Based on field observations, we propose two tradeoffs – timing of milkweed colonization and relationships with ants – as putative mechanisms for the coexistence of these congeners.
Human‐induced eutrophication enhances reproductive success through effects on parenting ability in sticklebacks
Authors: Candolin Ulrika , Engström‐Öst Jonna , Salesto Tiina
Published: February 2008

Human‐induced processes are altering habitats at an unprecedented rate and scale. This has changed the biodiversity and biomass in many areas, but also led to phenotypic and genetic alterations of populations. Here we investigated the effects of the ongoing eutrophication in the Baltic Sea on the reproductive success of threespine stickleback males Gasterosteus aculeatus, through effects on reproductive behaviour and parenting ability. We allowed males to complete breeding cycles in a competitive setting under increased macro algae cover or increased turbidity caused by phytoplankton growth. Both environmental factors improved the parenting ability of the males and enhanced reproductive output. Increased alga growth and turbidity reduced aggressive interactions between males during the parental phase, probably due to reduced visibility, which slowed down a deterioration of condition. This increased the reproductive lifespan of the males and enabled them to complete more breeding cycles, as found when males were allowed to complete as many breeding cycles as they could under increased algae cover. In addition, increased turbidity improved oxygen conditions, which enhanced hatching success and reduced the need for vigorous fanning behaviour. Increased turbidity, however, relaxed selection on male size. Together with earlier results on relaxed sexual selection under changed environmental conditions, this suggests that the effect of eutrophication on stickleback populations is complex. It increases the reproductive output of populations, since more individuals are spawning within eutrophicated areas and their hatching success is increased, but it relaxes sexual and natural selection at the reproductive stage. Whether this will shift selection and population regulation to other life stages, such as the juvenile stage, deserves further investigations.
An Empirical Model of a Resistance Brazing Process for Joining Circuit Breaker Contacts
Authors: Wood R. A. , El-Gizawy A. Sherif
Published: February 2008

Resistance brazing is extensively used to permanently join dissimilar materials. The electromechanical equipment production industry relies on this process to join dispersion-strengthened, ceramic composites to metals with high electrical conductivity, such as copper. A fractional factorial experiment was conducted to quantify the effects of the process parameters on the brazement maximum shear strength. Multiple regression analysis of the data was used to develop an empirical model for predicting joint stress from the process control variables. This model provides good agreement with the measured joint strength and clearly indicated an optimal process operating condition.
A Computationally Efficient Approach to Feature Abstraction in Design-Manufacturing Integration
Authors: Gadh R. , Prinz F. B.
Published: February 2008

Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) analysis saves time and reduces production costs by anticipating manufacturing problems at a product’s design stage. Performing manufacturing analysis of a design created by Computer Aided Design (CAD) systems requires a higher level of geometrical abstraction of its component features. For complicated parts, such as those found in injection molding, this problem becomes very difficult. The current approach presents a computationally efficient approach to converting the basic topological elements used in CAD systems into more abstract geometrical features necessary for DFM analysis. Very large computer models of parts have been subjected to feature recognition using the current system, ManuFEATURE, with significant success.
Thermo-Fluid Analysis and Testing of a Pneumatic Port Cleaner
Authors: Khatri N. , Gerner F. , Ziels B. , Moskal T.
Published: February 2008

This paper details a thermo-fluid model of the cylinder-piston-valve assembly of a pneumatic rodding boiler port cleaner. The relationship among the governing parameters is established. Model-predicted results are presented graphically and compared with experimental curves to verify the validity of the model. Small exit orifice areas offer a better cushioning effect. Numerical simulations show that the piston velocity increases with supply pressure and the weight of the piston, decreases with orifice area and is independent of the inclination angle of the device.
Towards Automated Design of the Feed System of Injection Molds by Integrating CAE, Iterative Redesign and Features
Authors: Irani R. K. , Kim B. H. , Dixon J. R.
Published: February 2008

A prototype software system that automatically designs the gating and runner systems, which comprise the feed system, of injection molds is described. The system, called AMDS (Automated Mold Design System), integrates CAE, with iterative redesign and knowledge stored in a features representation of the part. Gating design involves the generation of the best gating configuration represented by number, location, and type of gates, and the determination of the best conditions under which plastic should enter through the gates. Runner design also involves the generation of a runner layout followed by the sizing of the runner segments. The design of both systems is iterative, whereby the design variables are changed, the new design analyzed, evaluated, and redesigned if necessary, until an acceptable design is obtained. The evaluation of the gating design is based on eighteen performance parameters, while the evaluation of the runner system is based on four performance parameters. The system has been tested on three-dimensional parts made up of planar rectangular wall features with holes as add-on features.