bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiothoracic Ratio Association With Mortality in Patients on Maintenance Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Chen Kuan‐Hsing , Hung Cheng‐Chieh , Lin‐Tan Dan‐Tzu , Huang Wen‐Hung , Hsu Ching‐Wei , Weng Shu‐Man , Lin Ja‐Liang
Published: September 2010

The cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) indicates the left ventricular size; however, the significance of the CTR in patients on maintenance peritoneal dialysis (PD) remains unclear. In this study, 335 PD patients were enrolled and demographic, biochemical, co‐morbidity, and dialysis‐related data were obtained. The factors determining CTR were further analyzed. All patients were followed up for two years to investigate the mortality risks. We defined a normal CTR as less than the mean CTR value, mild cardiomegaly as a CTR between the mean and mean + 1 SD, and moderate‐to‐severe cardiomegaly as more than the mean CTR + 1 SD. Among the 335 patients, 163 patients were classified as having a normal CTR (<49.2%), 112 patients as having mild cardiomegaly (CTR 49.2–55.7%), and 60 patients as having moderate‐to‐severe cardiomegaly (CTR > 55.7%). χ2‐analysis showed that the incidences of malnutrition and anemia were significantly higher in patients with severe cardiomegaly than in patients of the other groups. The CTR was positively correlated with age, but negatively correlated with albumin and hemoglobin levels. Twenty‐six patients (7.7%) had died by the end of the study. Cox multivariate analysis revealed that the CTR significantly predicts all‐cause two‐year mortality in PD patients on maintenance PD; therefore, the CTR correlates with the nutritional and anemic status of PD patients and is a reliable predictor for all‐cause two‐year mortality. The analytical results of this study support continued efforts to reduce the CTR and treat underlying causes in patients with cardiomegaly.
Developing Score Reports for Cognitive Diagnostic Assessments
Authors: Roberts Mary Roduta , Gierl Mark J.
Published: September 2010

This paper presents a framework to provide a structured approach for developing score reports for cognitive diagnostic assessments (CDAs). Guidelines for reporting and presenting diagnostic scores are based on a review of current educational test score reporting practices and literature from the area of information design. A sample diagnostic report is presented to illustrate application of the reporting framework in the context of one CDA procedure called the Attribute Hierarchy Method. Integration and application of interdisciplinary techniques from education, information design, and technology are required for effective score reporting. While the AHM is used in this paper, this framework is applicable to any attribute‐based diagnostic testing method.
VOLATILE PROFILE AND SENSORY CHARACTERISTICS OF DRY‐CURED LOINS AS AFFECTED BY FEEDING LEVEL IN THE PERIOD PREVIOUS TO THE LATE FATTENING PHASE AND BY REARING SYSTEM OF IBERIAN PIGS
Authors: SOTO E. , HOZ L. , ORDÓÑEZ J.A. , HIERRO E. , HERRANZ B. , LÓPEZ‐BOTE C. , CAMBERO M.I.
Published: September 2010

The effect of a moderate feed restriction (50 g feed/kg LW0.75[low feeding level, L] versus 70 g feed/kg LW0.75[high feeding level, H]) during the period previous to the late fattening phase on chemical composition, volatile profile and sensory quality of Iberian dry‐cured loins from animals reared in free range (FR) or in confinement (C) along the fattening phase was studied. Total tocopherol, total free amino acid and ammonia contents of dry‐cured loins from pigs FRL and FRH were higher (P < 0.05) than those from CL and CH. Sixty‐one volatile compounds were identified and semiquantified in the headspace of all dry‐cured loins. The FRL products showed the highest (P < 0.05) amino acid catabolism volatile compounds. In the rank‐order test sensory analysis, the FR products obtained higher sums of ranks (P < 0.05) than those from confinement. Appearance, flavor, odor and texture scores showed a similar trend (FRL ≥ FRH > CL = CH).

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Dry‐cured products (loins and hams) from Iberian pigs that are reared at free range (FR) are highly appreciated by consumers, reaching the highest price. The feeding level of the Iberian pig in the period previous to the late fattening phase affects the amount of amino acid catabolism volatile compounds of dry‐cured loins from pigs reared at FR which is reflected in a better sensorial quality of the dry‐cured loin. A moderate feed restriction during the period previous to the late fattening phase of Iberian pigs reared at FR could be a good strategy to improve the sensory quality of dry‐cured products.
EFFECT OF PROTEOLYTIC ENZYME TREATMENTS AND PRESSURE COOKING ON QUALITY OF SPENT SHEEP MEAT CURRY
Authors: MENDIRATTA S.K. , SHARMA B.D. , NARAYAN R. , MANE B.G.
Published: September 2010

This study was conducted to improve the qualities of meat curry prepared from tough sheep meat. Tenderization treatments given before or during preparation of meat curry included spraying of powder of dried cucumis fruits, marinating meat chunks in ginger rhizome paste, 0.75% citric acid solution, 0.6% papain enzyme solution or cooking of chunks in specially designed pressure cooker at 15 psi. All these tenderizing treatments caused significant improvement in sensory scores of sheep meat curry in comparison to control. Shear force and collagen values were significantly lower in all treated meat curry samples than the control. Although there was significant increase (P < 0.01) in thiobarbituric acid‐reducing substance, pH and microbial load of meat curry on the fifth day of refrigerated storage, all the values were within the prescribed limits, and all samples were well acceptable. Magnitudes of changes during storage were less in citric acid‐ and ginger‐treated chunks than the control and other treated chunks.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Different tenderizing agents suggested for tenderization of sheep meat can be easily used to improve the quality of meat curry. Conditions standardized for cooking tough meat at 15 psi proved very effective in improving the qualities of meat curry from spent animals in comparison to cooking of control samples in ordinary pressure cooker (at 10 psi). Cucumis powder proved very effective in improving all the sensory attributes. Use of citric acid and ginger extract can be recommended when meat curry is to be used after storage at refrigerated temperature.

These techniques of tenderization of tough meat before or during cooking can be easily adopted at small‐scale and industrial levels. Improvement in tenderness will be of great value to meat processors and consumers. Better avenues for spent sheep meat utilization would also contribute for increased returns to the farmers. The process will not involve any significant extra expenditure, equipment or technique.
FLESH QUALITY IN LARGE RAINBOW TROUT WITH HIGH OR LOW FILLET YIELD
Authors: BUGEON JEROME , LEFEVRE FLORENCE , CARDINAL MIREILLE , UYANIK AYHAN , DAVENEL ARMEL , HAFFRAY PIERRICK
Published: September 2010

Rainbow trout with different fillet yield [56 and 65% for low (LY) and high yield (HY), respectively] were examined for muscle organization and flesh quality (instrumental and sensorial evaluations). Both groups had similar body weight (3.6 kg in mean), but the HY group had a higher carcass yield (+15%). Higher total muscle area in the HY group (+20%) was associated with a higher number of muscle fibers (+22%). Flesh of the HY group presented a higher area of myosepta (+10%), fat content (+10%) and luminosity (+6%). Raw fillet mechanical resistance was higher for the HY group; an opposite result was obtained for cooked flesh. Sensorial evaluation of cooked flesh revealed no important differences between groups. Smoked fillet from the HY group presented higher area of white stria and lower flesh color intensity. To conclude, higher muscle mass content had no negative consequences on flesh quality in rainbow trout.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Farmed rainbow trout presents great variability in fillet yield, and low fillet yield is considered as an unexpected carcass quality trait, as it leads to financial loss and higher volume of off‐products, difficult to valorize. Therefore, the improvement of fillet yield appears as an interesting criterion for genetic selection, but only if increasing fillet yield does not result in a lower‐quality product. This study provides useful information on the characteristics of the flesh of rainbow trout with different fillet yield. The results reported in this article show to fish farmers and processors that improving fillet yield has no negative impact on raw and processed flesh quality. From an academic point of view, this work provides additional knowledge in the area of the determinism of flesh quality in farmed fish.
EFFECTS OF ADDED CRUDE GREEN TEA POLYPHENOL ON THE LIPID OXIDATION OF COMMON CARP (CYPRINUS CARPIO L.) AND CATFISH (CLARIAS GARIEPINUS BURCHELL) DURING REFRIGERATED STORAGE
Authors: DEMBELE S. , WANG D.F. , YU L.N. , SUN J.P. , DONG S.Y.
Published: September 2010

The antioxidant activity of crude green tea polyphenol (GTP) on the lipid oxidation of carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) and catfish (Clarias gariepinus Burchell) was investigated. Each fish was trimmed to remove scales, head, fins, tail, viscera, bones, visible fat and skin, and treated with different concentrations of GTP 0.01, 0.03, 0.05 and 0.01% of vitamin C (VC). Control muscle sample (CK) contained no antioxidant. Lipid oxidation was evaluated over a course of 9 days and using a 3‐day periodical interval analysis for peroxide value, thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances and free fatty acid. Carp minced fillet containing 0.03% GTP showed the best characteristics (P < 0.05) in relation to oxidative stability. For catfish, 0.05% GTP concentration was more effective in delaying lipid oxidation, when compared with the control sample and VC. However, 0.01%‐treated minced fillet with VC was less effective than 0.01% GTP in reducing lipid oxidation. These results demonstrate that tea polyphenols inhibited lipid oxidation, and are effective alternatives to VC in food industry.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Green tea polyphenol (GTP) is a natural antioxidant. It can improve the quality of food products during refrigerated storage because of the presence of catechin in its composition. GTP promotes health by preventing lipid oxidation, and has been shown to possess antibacterial and antiviral characteristics. In food industry, it can be used as alternatives to the synthetic antioxidants because the use of these types of antioxidants is controlled nonetheless because of their carcinogenic potential.
TENDERIZING AND PRESERVING YAK MEAT BY GINGER EXTRACT (ZINGIBER OFFICINALE ROSE)
Authors: RUITONG DAI , ZHI YANG , YUAN LI , XINGMIN LI , LIZHEN MA
Published: September 2010

This study was conducted to develop a method for improving tenderness and inhibiting oxidative change of yak meat by ginger extract (GE) treatment. Uniform‐sized 3 cm × 3 cm × 3 cm yak meat chunks (Longissimus dorsi muscles) were marinated with distilled water, 3%, 5%, 7% GE and 0.2% sodium ascorbate, respectively. The samples stored for 24 h, 48 h and 72 h, and 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11 days at 4C ± 1C. The shear force values and cooking yield of the GE‐treated samples were compared with that of the control groups, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) value was compared with both the control group and the 0.2% sodium ascorbate‐treated group. Significantly lower shear force values and TBARS value (P < 0.05) were observed in all the GE treatment samples, and the sodium ascorbate‐treated group has similar TBARS with that of the 0.3% GE group. Cooking yields were also significantly higher in the GE‐treated samples than that of the control groups (P < 0.05). Scanning electron microscope photos clearly depicted the extensively broken and swollen muscle fibers in the GE‐treated samples. The results indicated that 5% (v/w) GE can be effectively utilized to tenderize tough yak meat and prevent yak meat from oxidation during storage.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Yak meat is an important protein resource for the Tibetan people, but yak meat was tougher and sensitive to oxidative change. This research would have practical applications to the yak meat processing and preservation. It can be applied at the industrial and household level as an easy method to improve yak meat quality and prevent yak meat from oxidation during storage.
STUDY OF HYDROLYZED PROTEIN COMPOSITION, FREE AMINO ACID, AND TAURINE CONTENT IN DIFFERENT MUSCLES OF GALICIAN BLONDE BEEF
Authors: FRANCO DANIEL , GONZÁLEZ LAURA , BISPO ESPERANZA , RODRÍGUEZ PATRICIA , GARABAL JOSÉ IGNACIO , MORENO TERESA
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to identify and quantify hydrolyzed and free amino acids including taurine in different muscles of the Blonde Galician breed. The main essential amino acids present in each of the muscles were lysine and leucine, with aspartic acid and glutamic being the most important in the non‐essential fraction. The chemical score and the index of essential amino acids were calculated as correlation parameters of the biological value of the proteins, with the best values being obtained for the muscles longisimus dorsi and semitendinosus. An analysis was also carried out of the amino acid in the free fraction. Taurine was found to be the main free amino acid in all muscles, with the exception of the cardiac muscle, where histidine was the main one present. The muscles that presented higher amounts of taurine were the masseter muscle followed by semimenbranous, and biceps femori, where taurine represented 40, 35, and 31%, respectively, of the total content of the free fraction.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This study provides practical and useful information on the nutritional quality of muscles, which are widely consumed in Spain. Several of these muscles are highly appreciated by the consumers in restaurants such as, eye of round, sirloin, and masseter muscle. These results will be relevant for the cattle industry, because this data add information to the fatty acid profile description of samples studied in the same breed. It will be also useful for nutritionists in describing tables of the food composition.
EVALUATION OF METAL HYDROXIDE IMMOBILIZATION AND DNA EXTRACTION METHODS ON DETECTION OF SALMONELLA ENTERICA FROM PORK SAUSAGE BY NESTED POLYMERASE CHAIN REACTION
Authors: RATHNAYAKA UDAYA SANJEEWA KUMARA , RAKSHIT SUDIP KUMAR
Published: September 2010

The aim of this work was to evaluate the effectiveness of metal hydroxide immobilization and five different DNA extraction methods in detection of Salmonella enterica from pork sausage samples by nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Immobilization of bacterial cells by Zr(OH)4 and Ti(OH)4 was carried out prior to DNA extraction by five DNA extraction methods. The fliC gene and enterotoxin (stn) gene of Salmonella enterica was amplified by nested PCR. Both metal hydroxide immobilization and nested PCR amplification were able to increase the detection sensitivity. DNA extraction by modified Fontana and Kapperud methods were more effective compared with other methods. The amplification of enterotoxin (stn) gene provided more sensitivity of detection compared with amplification of fliC gene. This study shows that the use of metal hydroxide immobilization and nested PCR are able to increase the sensitivity of Salmonella enterica detection from meat food samples.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

In this experiment, two extraction methods were found to be more effective for the extraction of DNA from Salmonella enterica‐spiked pork sausage. Immobilization of Salmonella cells by metal hydroxide and application of nested polymerase chain reaction were able to increase the detection sensitivity and reduce the possibility of false positive results. These findings are useful in the selection of suitable methods for rapid, sensitive and reliable detection of bacterial pathogens from meat food samples.
PRODUCTION METHODS AND PRODUCT CHARACTERISTICS OF JERKY PRODUCED BY SMALL AND VERY SMALL MEAT PROCESSING BUSINESSES
Authors: LONNECKER SEAN M. , BOYLE ELIZABETH A.E. , GETTY KELLY J.K. , BUEGE DENNIS R. , INGHAM STEVEN C. , SEARLS GINA , HARPER NIGEL M.
Published: September 2010

Midwestern meat processors were surveyed to determine whether consensus existed among industry processing practices for jerky production. Seventy‐eight plants were contacted, 37 responded and 33 plants sent 61 samples consisting of whole muscle (56%) or chopped and formed (44%) jerky. Samples had mean water activity, salt (NaCl) and pH of 0.74, 6.85% and 5.85, respectively. Plants used either smokehouses (34) or commercial ovens (3). Nine plants measured wet bulb temperature, and one used a relative humidity instrument. However, 35 plants claimed that they were able to control humidity. Controls included closing dampers, steam injection, direct addition of water, placing a pan of water in the house, or a combination of methods. Plants used sodium nitrite (32), sodium erythorbate (15) and potassium sorbate (5), and vacuum (78%), no vacuum (32%) and gas flush (14%) packaging. Most products were stored at room temperature (38%) or refrigerated (32%); or a combination of methods was used.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Because of the high variability of processing times and temperatures, processing environment relative humidity, and methods to control humidity used by small and very small plants, there is a need to educate these processors about jerky processing parameters and the need for routine product analysis. Lack of processing knowledge and equipment capabilities also highlights the need for lethality studies in this area in addition to education on jerky process control and food safety for processors. On the basis of the averages from this study, lethality studies should target Aw 0.74 (Food Safety Inspection Service requires an Aw of ≤0.85), NaCl 6.85% and pH 5.85. Lethality studies should be conducted with cure for most studies. Marinade pH and length of time held in marinade prior to thermal processing as well as packaging effect and subsequent shelf life on pathogen lethality during storage should be considered. This research information could potentially decrease plants' operating costs while helping ensure food safety and public health protection.
Extraction and Normal‐Phase HPLC‐Fluorescence‐Electrospray MS Characterization and Quantification of Procyanidins in Cranberry Extracts
Authors: Wallace Taylor C. , Giusti M. Monica
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Cranberries are a major source of procyanidins, an abundant class of bioactive polyphenols found in nature. The objective of this study was to apply a protocol for extraction and normal‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatograph‐fluorescence‐mass spectroscopy separation and quantification of procyanidins in cranberry extracts containing varying processing aids and/or methods of production. Cranberry extracts were best extracted using an acetone/water technique versus an acid/alkaline extraction. Procyanidins were semi‐purified with C‐18 and Sephadex LH‐20 SPE cartridges (GE Healthcare Life Sciences, Piscataway, N.J., U.S.A.). Characterization and quantification of procyanidins up to octamers and higher molecular weight compounds, including separation of the A‐ and B‐type dimers to tetramers was achieved.
Effect of Antifungal Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose‐Lipid Edible Composite Coatings on Penicillium Decay Development and Postharvest Quality of Cold‐Stored “Ortanique” Mandarins
Authors: Valencia‐Chamorro Silvia A. , Pérez‐Gago María B. , Del Río Miguel A. , Palou Lluís
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Edible composite coatings based on hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), hydrophobic components (beeswax and shellac), and food preservatives with antifungal properties were evaluated on “Ortanique” mandarins during long‐term cold storage. Selected food preservatives included potassium sorbate (PS), sodium benzoate (SB), sodium propionate (SP), and their mixtures. Intact mandarins or mandarins artificially inoculated with the pathogens Penicillium digitatum and Penicillium italicum, the causal agents of citrus postharvest green (GM) and blue (BM) molds, respectively, were coated and stored up to 8 wk at 5 °C + 1 wk of shelf‐life at 20 °C. HPMC‐lipid coatings containing food preservatives controlled better GM than BM on Ortanique mandarins. SB‐ and SB + SP‐based coatings reduced the incidence of GM by about 35% after 4 wk at 5 °C. Among all coatings, only the SB‐based coating reduced the incidence of GM (about 16%) after 6 wk at 5 °C. All coatings significantly reduced disease severity of both GM and BM after 6 wk at 5 °C. Analytical and sensory fruit quality was evaluated on intact mandarins. All coatings, especially the SB + SP‐based coatings, were effective to control weight loss and maintain the firmness of coated mandarins. Internal gas concentration, juice ethanol and acetaldehyde content, sensory flavor, off‐flavor, and fruit appearance were not adversely affected by the application of the antifungal coatings. Further studies should focus on the modification of some physical characteristics of the coatings to improve the gloss and visual aspect of treated mandarins.
Effects of Heating Temperatures and Addition of Reconstituted Milk on the Heat Indicators in Milk
Authors: Lan X.Y. , Wang J.Q. , Bu D.P. , Shen J.S. , Zheng N. , Sun P.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of heating temperatures and reconstituted milk on heat treatment indicators in milk by comparing the heat damage between raw milk and raw milk plus reconstituted milk (composite milk). The contents of lactulose, furosine, beta‐lactoglobulin, and lactoperoxidase were determined after the heat indicators were heated to 65 to 115 °C for 15 s both in raw milk and composite milk. In the raw milk, the lactulose and furosine contents increased with increased heating temperature, while the beta‐lactoglobulin content and lactoperoxidase activity decreased. The lactulose and furosine contents were increased after the addition of reconstituted milk. The reconstituted milk also significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the concentration of beta‐lactoglobulin in the milk. Both heat treatment and an addition of reconstituted milk decreased the lactoperoxidase activity significantly (P < 0.05), and the lactoperoxidase activity was undetectable at 85 °C. The ratios of lactulose to furosine in pasteurized milk were higher than that in composite pasteurized milk. It is concluded that lactulose, furosine, and beta‐lactoglobulin are suitable indicators of high heat pasteurization or raw milk, while lactoperoxidase may be used in monitoring mild heat pasteurization.

Practical Application:  Adequate heat treatment is necessary to destroy the microbes in raw milk. However, excessive heat treatment can result in inactivation of active compounds or loss of nutrients. The present study showed that the concentrations of lactulose, furosine, beta‐lactoglobulin, and the activity of lactoperoxidase are sensitive to processing temperature and can serve as indicators of milk pasteurization.
Determination of a Representative Volume Element Based on the Variability of Mechanical Properties with Sample Size in Bread
Authors: Ramírez Cristian , Young Ashley , James Bryony , Aguilera José M.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Quantitative analysis of food structure is commonly obtained by image analysis of a small portion of the material that may not be the representative of the whole sample. In order to quantify structural parameters (air cells) of 2 types of bread (bread and bagel) the concept of representative volume element (RVE) was employed. The RVE for bread, bagel, and gelatin‐gel (used as control) was obtained from the relationship between sample size and the coefficient of variation, calculated from the apparent Young's modulus measured on 25 replicates. The RVE was obtained when the coefficient of variation for different sample sizes converged to a constant value. In the 2 types of bread tested, the tendency of the coefficient of variation was to decrease as the sample size increased, while in the homogeneous gelatin‐gel, it remained always constant around 2.3% to 2.4%. The RVE resulted to be cubes with sides of 45 mm for bread, 20 mm for bagels, and 10 mm for gelatin‐gel (smallest sample tested). The quantitative image analysis as well as visual observation demonstrated that bread presented the largest dispersion of air‐cell sizes. Moreover, both the ratio of maximum air‐cell area/image area and maximum air‐cell height/image height were greater for bread (values of 0.05 and 0.30, respectively) than for bagels (0.03 and 0.20, respectively). Therefore, the size and the size variation of air cells present in the structure determined the size of the RVE. It was concluded that RVE is highly dependent on the heterogeneity of the structure of the types of baked products.
Effect of Powder and Target Properties on Wrap Around Effect during Coating
Authors: Sumonsiri Nutsuda , Barringer Sheryl A.
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Tapioca starch, NaCl (28, 135, and 378 μm), corn starch, cocoa powder, soy protein isolate, cheese powder, wheat protein, modified starch, nacho cheese, and sugar were coated at 0 kV for nonelectrostatic and at 25 kV for electrostatic coating onto metal, wood, unoiled paper, oiled paper, unoiled plastic, oiled plastic, fresh bread, and dry bread. Powders and targets were allowed to naturally tribocharge, or all charge was removed before coating. Powder particle size, flowability, resistivity, and target resistivity were reported. Electrostatic coating produced the same or better wrap around, or percent side coverage as nonelectrostatic coating for every powder and target. The greatest electrostatic improvement was found when using powders that had the worst nonelectrostatic side coverage: large particle size (>135 μm), low resistivity, and low cohesiveness, especially on targets that had high‐surface resistivity (2 × 105Ωm). Tribocharging had a similar effect as electrostatic coating. In both nonelectrostatic and electrostatic coating, percent side coverage increased as powder particle size decreased, cohesiveness increased, or target resistivity decreased. In electrostatic coating, percent side coverage increased as powder resistivity increased; however, in nonelectrostatic coating, as powder resistivity increased, percent side coverage increased on only oiled plastic and dry bread.

Practical Application:  The evenness of powder coating on food is very important for consumer acceptability, since consumers judge food from its appearance before they have a chance to taste it. If thick food targets, such as cakes, donuts, and marshmallows need to be coated, the side coverage, due to the wrap around effect, is important. Choosing powders with small particle size, high cohesiveness and high‐powder resistivity, and using electrostatic coating can produce food targets coated on all sides.
Prediction of the Weight of Alaskan Pollock Using Image Analysis
Authors: Balaban Murat O. , Chombeau Melanie , Cırban Dilşat , Gümüş Bahar
Published: September 2010

Abstract:  Determining the size and quality attributes of fish by machine vision is gaining acceptance and increasing use in the seafood industry. Objectivity, speed, and record keeping are advantages in using this method. The objective of this work was to develop the mathematical correlations to predict the weight of whole Alaskan Pollock (Theragra chalcogramma) based on its view area from a camera. One hundred and sixty whole Pollock were obtained fresh, within 2 d after catch from a Kodiak, Alaska, processing plant. The fish were first weighed, then placed in a light box equipped with a Nikon D200 digital camera. A reference square of known surface area was placed by the fish. The obtained image was analyzed to calculate the view area of each fish. The following equations were used to fit the view area (X) compared with weight (Y) data: linear, power, and 2nd‐order polynomial. The power fit (Y = A · XB) gave the highest R2 for the fit (0.99). The effect of fins and tail on the accuracy of the weight prediction using view area were evaluated. Removing fins and tails did not improve prediction accuracy. Machine vision can accurately predict the weight of whole Pollock.

Practical Application:  The weight of Alaskan Pollock can be predicted automatically by taking the image of the fish and using it in one of the correlations developed in this study. The removal of the fins or the fins and the tail did not increase the prediction accuracy of the method. Therefore, intact fish images should be used.
Effects of Geomorphic Setting and Urbanization on Wood, Pools, Sediment Storage, and Bank Erosion in Puget Sound Streams1
Authors: Segura Catalina , Booth Derek B.
Published: September 2010

Segura, Catalina and Derek B. Booth, 2010. Effects of Geomorphic Setting and Urbanization on Wood, Pools, Sediment Storage, and Bank Erosion in Puget Sound Streams. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 46(5):972‐986. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2010.00470.x

Abstract:  Interrelationships between urbanization, the near‐riparian zone, and channel morphology were examined in 44 lowland stream reaches in the Puget Lowlands of western Washington, United States. Both the degree of urbanization and channel type control channel response to a range of instream and riparian conditions. Some of these relationships are not evident in lumped datasets (i.e., with all channel types and/or degrees of urbanization) and highlight the importance of fluvial geomorphology in determining channel response. We found that in low‐urbanized watersheds dominated by forced pool‐riffle and plane‐bed morphologies, the frequency and distribution of large woody debris (LWD), pool spacing, sediment storage, and bank erosion have a strong relationship with channel confinement and characteristics of near‐riparian vegetation. In contrast, high‐urbanized reaches dominated by simplified morphologies are substantially less sensitive to the condition of the near‐riparian zone (e.g., size of the near‐riparian vegetation and the level of channel confinement), due to the common disconnection of stream and floodplain caused by the placement of stabilizing structures in the banks. These structures are typically placed to prevent erosion; however, they also result in fewer LWD and pools, less sediment storage, and higher potential for incision.
Long‐Term Relationships Between Ocean Variability and Water Resources in Northeastern Utah1
Authors: Tingstad Abbie H. , MacDonald Glen M.
Published: September 2010

Tingstad, Abbie H. and Glen M. MacDonald, 2010. Long‐Term Relationships Between Ocean Variability and Water Resources in Northeastern Utah. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 46(5):987‐1002. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2010.00471.x

Abstract:  The Uinta Mountains in the northwestern Colorado River Basin are an important source of water for Utah and the western United States. This article examines 20th Century hydrology in the Uinta Mountains region in the context of the previous four to eight centuries as well as possible relationships with Pacific and Atlantic Ocean variability using new tree‐ring based reconstructions for streamflow and snowpack. The 20th Century appears to have been unusually wet compared with previous centuries. Relationships between hydrology in the region and the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO), Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), and Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) are largely insignificant in instrumental datasets but may have been stronger, although inconsistent, over the longer time spans represented by the paleoclimate records. Impacts of individual modes of sea surface temperature variability may sometimes be enhanced by periods when climate forcing by ENSO, PDO, and/or AMO coincide. Such episodes are associated with deviations from mean hydrology as high as +14% and as low as −18%. The 20th Century could be a misleading benchmark to base water resource estimates upon and flexible water management strategies are necessary to take into account the large range of natural variability observed in the longer‐term hydroclimatology as well as the challenges to predictability due to the apparently complex and inconsistent influence of ocean‐driven variability.
An Aquifer Classification System and Geographical Information System‐Based Analysis Tool for Watershed Managers in the Western U.S.1
Authors: Payne Scott M. , Woessner William W.
Published: September 2010

Payne, Scott M. and William W. Woessner, 2010. An Aquifer Classification System and Geographical Information System‐Based Analysis Tool for Watershed Managers in the Western U.S. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 46(5):1003‐1023. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2010.00472.x

Abstract:  Aquifers and groundwater systems can be classified using a variety of independent methods to characterize geologic and hydraulic properties, the degree of connection with surface water, and geochemical conditions. In light of a growing global demand for water, an approach for classifying groundwater systems at the watershed scale is needed. A comprehensive classification system is proposed that combines recognized methods and new approaches. The purpose of classification is to provide groundwater professionals, policy makers, and watershed managers with a widely applicable and repeatable system that reduces sometimes cumbersome complex databases and analyzes to straightforward terminology and graphical representations. The proposed classification system uses basin geology, aquifer productivity, water quality, and the degree of groundwater/surface water connection as classification criteria. The approach is based on literature values, reference databases, and fundamental hydrologic and hydrogeologic principles. The proposed classification system treats dataset completeness as a variable and includes a tiered assessment protocol that depends on the quality and quantity of data. In addition, it assembles and catalogs groundwater information using a consistent set of nomenclature. It is designed to analyze and display results using Geographical Information System mapping tools.
Contrasting Lumped and Distributed Hydrology Models for Estimating Climate Change Impacts on California Watersheds1
Authors: Maurer Edwin P. , Brekke Levi D. , Pruitt Tom
Published: September 2010

Maurer, Edwin P., Levi D. Brekke, and Tom Pruitt, 2010. Contrasting Lumped and Distributed Hydrology Models for Estimating Climate Change Impacts on California Watersheds. Journal of the American Water Resources Association (JAWRA) 46(5):1024–1035. DOI: 10.1111/j.1752‐1688.2010.00473.x

Abstract:  We compare the projected changes to streamflows for three Sierra Nevada rivers using statistically downscaled output from 22 global climate projections. The downscaled meteorological data are used to drive two hydrology models: the Sacramento Soil Moisture Accounting model and the variable infiltration capacity model. These two models differ in their spatial resolution, computational time step, and degree and objective of calibration, thus producing significantly different simulations of current and future streamflow. However, the projected percentage changes in monthly streamflows through mid‐21st Century generally did not differ, with the exceptions of streamflow during low flow months, and extreme low flows. These findings suggest that for physically based hydrology models applied to snow‐dominated basins in Mediterranean climate regimes like the Sierra Nevada, California, model formulation, resolution, and calibration are secondary factors for estimating projected changes in extreme flows (seasonal or daily). For low flows, hydrology model selection and calibration can be significant factors in assessing impacts of projected climate change.
Statistical tests of chondrule sorting
Authors: TEITLER Seth A. , PAQUE Julie M. , CUZZI Jeffrey N. , HOGAN Robert C.
Published: September 2010

Abstract–The variation in sizes of chondrules from one chondrite to the next is thought to be due to some sorting process in the early solar nebula. Hypotheses for the sorting process include chondrule sorting by mass and sorting by some aerodynamic mechanism; one such aerodynamic mechanism is the process of turbulent concentration (TC). We present the results of a series of statistical tests of chondrule data from several different chondrites. The data do not clearly distinguish between various options for the sorting parameter, but we find that the data are inconsistent with being drawn from lognormal or (three‐parameter) Weibull distributions in chondrule radius. We also find that all but one of the chondrule data sets tested are consistent with being drawn from the TC distribution.
Control of bombardment energy and energetic species toward a superdense titanium nitride film
Authors: Xie Zhigang , Allen Adolph Miller , Chang Mei , Wang Phillip , Gung Tza-jing
Published: September 2010

TiN deposited by dc magnetron sputtering has been widely used as a hard mask material for dielectric patterning in multilevel Cu interconnects. Typically inside a “poison-mode” regime, the film density is 4.5–4.9 g/cm3. The microstructure, varying from columnar structure to nanocrystalline, is controlled by both thermodynamics and surface kinetics through ionization, substrate bias, target voltage, etc. A relatively low density film can be correlated with a porous columnar structure, low mechanical robustness, and weak resistance to plasma etching. However, with controlled growth, an applied substrate bias does not create resputtering and crystal defects. Instead, the authors create film with a maximum density of 5.3 g/cm3. In this high density film, carrier scatterings through grain boundary are greatly suppressed and the film resistivity is as low as 95 μΩ cm, which brings additional benefits as a conductive capping layer. As it is deposited at room temperature, the process minimizes the thermal budget to the underlying low-k dielectric materials to be patterned.
Particle Acceleration on Megaparsec Scales in a Merging Galaxy Cluster
Authors: van Weeren Reinout J. , Röttgering Huub J. A. , Brüggen Marcus , Hoeft Matthias
Published: September 2010

Shocking Radio Relic

Radio relics are diffuse, elongated radio sources located on the outskirts of galaxy clusters thought to trace shocks generated by collisions between galaxy clusters. Particles may be accelerated within the shock waves by a diffusive shock acceleration mechanism, which also accelerates particles in shock waves produced by supernova explosions.

Van Weeren
et al.

(p.
347
, published online 23 September) report the detection of a megaparsec-scale radio relic showing all the properties of diffusive shock acceleration expected at radio wavelengths. The results suggest that this acceleration mechanism operates on scales larger than those of supernova remnants and imply that merging clusters of galaxies can accelerate particles to energies much higher than those achieved in supernova remnants
Intestinal Stem Cell Replacement Follows a Pattern of Neutral Drift
Authors: Lopez-Garcia Carlos , Klein Allon M. , Simons Benjamin D. , Winton Douglas J.
Published: September 2010

Gut Stem Cell Replacement

Gut cell turnover is characteristically rapid and relies on stem cells in the crypts that lie between the intestinal villi. The prevailing view is that stem cell division is asymmetric with one daughter retaining a stem cell character; however, this pattern of stem cell turnover does not always apply. Using long-term lineage tracing,

Lopez-Garcia
et al.

(p.
822
, published online 23 September) showed that the loss of a stem cell was compensated for by the multiplication of a neighboring cell. The rate of stem-cell loss was found to be equivalent to the rate of cell division, indicating that symmetric cell division was the rule for gut stem cells and implying stochastic expansion, contraction, and extinction of clones occurs.
Gender and sex differences in job status and hypertension
Authors: Clougherty Jane E , Eisen Ellen A , Slade Martin D , Kawachi Ichiro , Cullen Mark R
Published: September 2010

Objectives

Studies have shown greater health risks associated with blue-collar manufacturing employment for women than men. It remains challenging, however, to distinguish gendered job status (affected by family composition and other personal characteristics) from sex-linked biological differences influencing physiological response to workplace physical hazards.

Methods

We examined the effects of hourly (blue-collar) status on incident hypertension among men and women, using health claims data for 14 618 white- and blue-collar aluminium manufacturing employees in eight US states. To explore gender differences in job status, we developed sex-stratified propensity score models identifying key socioeconomic predictors of hourly status for men and women. To examine the effects of hourly employment on hypertension risk, after adjusting for gender differences in job status, we applied time-weighted logistic regression models, stratified by propensity score, with additional adjustment for socioeconomic confounders.

Results

Family structure (partnership, parity) influenced job status for both sexes; single mothers were more likely to hold hourly jobs (OR 2.02; 95% CI 1.37 to 2.97) and partnered men with children less likely (OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.56 to 0.83). Education, age at hire and race influenced job status for both sexes. The effect of hourly status on hypertension was significant only among women predicted to be hourly (OR 1.78; 95% CI 1.34 to 2.35).

Conclusions

Our results indicate significant risks of hypertension associated with hourly status for women, possibly exacerbated by sociodemographic factors predicting hourly status (eg, single parenthood, low education). Greater attention to gender differences in job status, and finer exploration of sex-linked biological differences influencing responsivity to workplace exposures, is warranted.
Occupation and bladder cancer in a population-based case–control study in Northern New England
Authors: Colt Joanne S , Karagas Margaret R , Schwenn Molly , Baris Dalsu , Johnson Alison , Stewart Patricia , Verrill Castine , Moore Lee E , Lubin Jay , Ward Mary H , Samanic Claudine , Rothman Nathaniel , Cantor Kenneth P , Beane Freeman Laura E , Schned Alan , Cherala Sai , Silverman Debra T
Published: September 2010

Objectives

We used data from a large, population-based case–control study in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont to examine relationships between occupation, industry and bladder cancer risk.

Methods

Lifetime occupational histories were obtained by personal interview from 1158 patients newly diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma of the bladder in 2001–2004, and from 1402 population controls. Unconditional logistic regression was used to calculate ORs and 95% CIs, adjusted for demographic factors, smoking and employment in other high-risk occupations.

Results

Male precision metalworkers and metalworking/plasticworking machine operators had significantly elevated risks and significant trends in risk with duration of employment (precision metalworkers: OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.4 to 3.4, ptrend=0.0065; metalworking/plasticworking machine operators: OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.01 to 2.6, ptrend=0.047). Other occupations/industries for which risk increased significantly with duration of employment included: for men, textile machine operators, mechanics/repairers, automobile mechanics, plumbers, computer systems analysts, information clerks, and landscape industry workers; for women, service occupations, health services, cleaning and building services, management-related occupations, electronic components manufacturing and transportation equipment manufacturing. Men reporting use of metalworking fluids (MWF) had a significantly elevated bladder cancer risk (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1 to 2.5).

Conclusions

Our findings support the hypothesis that some component(s) of MWF may be carcinogenic to the bladder. Our results also corroborate many other previously reported associations between bladder cancer risk and various occupations. More detailed analyses using information from the study's job-specific questionnaires may help to identify MWF components that may be carcinogenic, and other bladder carcinogens associated with a variety of occupations.
Relationship between outdoor temperature and blood pressure
Authors: Halonen Jaana I , Zanobetti Antonella , Sparrow David , Vokonas Pantel S , Schwartz Joel
Published: September 2010

Objectives

Cardiovascular mortality has been linked to changes in outdoor temperature. However, the mechanisms behind these effects are not well established. We aimed to study the effect of outdoor temperature on blood pressure, as increased blood pressure is a risk factor for cardiovascular death.

Methods

The study population consisted of men aged 53–100 years living in the Boston area. We used a mixed effects model to estimate the effect of three temperature variables: ambient, apparent and dew point temperature (DPT), on repeated measures (every 3–5 years) of diastolic (DBP) and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Random intercepts for subjects and several possible confounders were used in the models, including black carbon and barometric pressure.

Results

We found modest associations between DBP and ambient and apparent temperature. In the basic models, DBP in association with a 5°C decrease in 7-day moving averages of temperatures increased by 1.01% (95% CI −0.06% to 2.09%) and 1.55% (95% CI 0.61% to 2.49%) for ambient and apparent temperature, respectively. Excluding extreme temperatures strengthened these associations (2.13%, 95% CI 0.66% to 3.63%, and 1.65%, 95% CI 0.41% to 2.90%, for ambient and apparent temperature, respectively). Effect estimates for DPT were close to null. The effect of apparent temperature on SBP was similar (1.30% increase (95% CI 0.32% to 2.29%) for a 5°C decrease in 7-day moving average).

Conclusions

Cumulative exposure to decreasing ambient and apparent temperature may increase blood pressure. These findings suggest that an increase in blood pressure could be a mechanism behind cold-related, but not heat-related, cardiovascular mortality.
A MODEL FOR THE EFFECT OF POLLUTANT ON HUMAN POPULATION DEPENDENT ON A RESOURCE WITH ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH POLICY
Authors: DUBEY B.
Published: September 2010

In this paper, a nonlinear mathematical model to study the effect of environmental pollution on resource biomass and human populations is proposed and analyzed. In modeling the system, it is considered that there is a limited budget to be spent on environmental cleanup and health policies. An optimal investment policy is also discussed using Pontryagin's Maximum Principle.
THE SPATIAL PATTERNS THROUGH DIFFUSION-DRIVEN INSTABILITY IN MODIFIED LESLIE-GOWER AND HOLLING-TYPE II PREDATOR-PREY MODEL
Authors: SUN G. , SARWARDI S. , PAL P. J. , RAHMAN Md. S.
Published: September 2010

Formation of spatial patterns in prey-predator system is a central issue in ecology. In this paper Turing structure through diffusion driven instability in a modified Leslie-Gower and Holling-type II predator-prey model has been investigated. The parametric space for which Turing spatial structure takes place has been found out. Extensive numerical experiments have been performed to show the role of diffusion coefficients and other important parameters of the system in Turing instability that produces some elegant patterns that have not been observed in the earlier findings. Finally it is concluded that the diffusion can lead the prey population to become isolated in the two-dimensional spatial domain.