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A co‐evolutionary arms race ensues when parasites exhibit exploitative behaviour, which prompts adaptations in their hosts, in turn triggering counter‐adaptations by the parasites. To unravel the genomic basis of this coevolution from the host's perspective, we collected ants of the host species Temnothorax longispinosus, parasitized by the social parasite Temnothorax americanus, from 10 populations in the northeastern United States exhibiting varying levels of parasite prevalence and living under different climatic conditions. We conducted a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with both prevalence and climate. Our investigation highlighted a multitude of candidate SNPs associated with parasite prevalence, particularly in genes responsible for sensory perception of smell including odorant receptor genes. We further focused on population‐specific compositions of cuticular hydrocarbons, a complex trait important for signalling, communication and protection against desiccation. The relative abundances of n‐alkanes were correlated with climate, while there was only a trend between parasite prevalence and the relative abundances of known recognition cues. Furthermore, we identified candidate genes likely involved in the synthesis and recognition of specific hydrocarbons. In addition, we analysed the population‐level gene expression in the antennae, the primary organ for odorant reception, and established a strong correlation with parasite prevalence. Our comprehensive study highlights the intricate genomic patterns forged by the interplay of diverse selection factors and how these are manifested in the expression of various phenotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The spotted lanternfly (SLF) is an invasive generalist that is spreading throughout the eastern United States. They feed in large aggregations, but the mechanisms they use to form these aggregations and find each other for mating are poorly understood. Laboratory evidence that they use pheromones is based on volatiles from their bodies and from honeydew excretions, but, due to their broad sensory capabilities, the pheromone components have been difficult to isolate and identify. This is the first evidence gathered in a field study that demonstrates, using naturally collected SLF odors as lures, that volatiles from SLF bodies and honeydew are both required to attract males at mating time and females during oviposition time. Using semiochemicals collected from spotted lanternflies Lycorma delicatula (Hemiptera: Fulgoridae) (SLF) and deployed in the field with circle traps, we demonstrated that SLF responded to SLF pheromones: in particular, this was the case for males while seeking mates and for females while ovipositing. The attractants consisted of SLF body extract emitted from diffuser lures and SLF honeydew on burlap ribbons, collected from heavily infested locations. Traps with attractants were deployed in field sites with very light SLF infestations to avoid competing signals of pre-existing aggregations. The number of SLF equivalents emitted by each diffuser per trapping period was used in a dose–response analysis. Three trees per block received either (1) a control hexane lure and a clean ribbon, (2) a lure containing SLF extract and a clean ribbon, or (3) a lure containing SLF extract and a honeydew-laden ribbon. Ten blocks were sampled three times per week for twelve weeks. We found a significant positive dose–response by males to SLF body extract only in the presence of SLF honeydew, indicating a synergistic effect between honeydew volatiles and body volatiles. This dose–response occurred for five weeks after mating started, after which males no longer responded. Subsequently, females had a significant positive dose–response to SLF extract only in the presence of honeydew when oviposition was their primary activity, continuing for two weeks, suggesting that females may use pheromones to aggregate for oviposition. The extract in the absence of honeydew did not result in a positive dose–response, nor did the hexane control. These findings suggest that SLF respond synergistically to the combination of pheromones present in both SLF honeydew and SLF bodies. Thus, combining key components from both sources may aid the development of semiochemical lures for SLF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Camera traps deployed with olfactory attractants are used to survey rare and elusive carnivores. Study areas with deep snowpack and rugged terrain present challenges and risks to field personnel, who traditionally must revisit camera stations regularly to refresh attractants. In such locations, alternative overwinter survey protocols that include a persistent attractant would improve both the safety and efficiency of camera‐trap surveys. We present a protocol for installing camera traps and automated scent dispensers on trees at above‐average maximum snow depth to eliminate the need for interim service visits and to enable standardized surveys to be conducted throughout the year. Our protocol proved to be effective at attracting and detecting numerous and repeated visits by wolverines, fishers, and other carnivores in two montane regions of the western contiguous United States. The volume, timing, and composition of liquid scent lure released by automated scent dispensers can be varied to target multiple species of interest, and the dispenser can be used in situations where bait rewards may influence the behavior of target species and/or pose human safety concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: Floral scent is a complex trait that mediates many plant–insect interactions, but our understanding of how floral scent variation evolves, either independently or in concert with other traits, remains limited. Assessing variation in floral scent at multiple levels of biological organization and comparing patterns of variation in scent to variation in other floral traits can contribute to our understanding of how scent variation evolves in nature. Methods: We used a greenhouse common garden experiment to investigate variation in floral scent at three scales—within plants, among plants, and among populations—and to determine whether scent, alone or in combination with morphology and rewards, contributes to population differentiation in Oenothera cespitosa subsp. marginata. Its range spans most of the biomes in the western United States, such that variation in both the abiotic and biotic environment could contribute to trait variation. Results: Multiple analytical approaches demonstrated substantial variation among and within populations in compound‐specific and total floral scent measures. Overall, populations were differentiated in morphology and reward traits and in scent. Across populations, coupled patterns of variation in linalool, leucine‐derived compounds, and hypanthium length are consistent with a long‐tongued moth pollination syndrome. Conclusions: The considerable variation in floral scent detected within populations suggests that, similar to other floral traits, variation in floral scent may have a heritable genetic component. Differences in patterns of population differentiation in floral scent and in morphology and rewards indicate that these traits may be shaped by different selective pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The odor detection threshold for a chemical typically varies widely across population members, and the values can be described by a lognormal distribution. Assuming that the parameters of a chemical's odor detection threshold distribution can be estimated, a method is presented to retrospectively estimate exposure intensity based on detecting the chemical's odor. The context is a single exposure period involving a single air contaminant. In brief, where k out of n identically exposed persons detect the chemical's odor, the best estimate of the chemical's concentration in air corresponds to the k ÷ n fractile of the odor detection threshold distribution. Where n is small and/or k ÷ n is close to zero or one, exact 100 × (1 − α) % confidence bounds for the fractile estimate can be computed without using the normal distribution assumption. In addition, statistical uncertainty in the parameter estimates of the chemical's odor detection threshold distribution can be considered via a parametric bootstrap procedure, such that an overall 100 × (1 − α) % confidence interval on the chemical's concentration in air is obtained. The method is illustrated for benzene. Analysis of the available benzene odor detection threshold literature provides best estimates of a population geometric mean equal to 37.8 ppm and geometric standard deviation equal to 1.92. In a hypothetical example in which two out of six workers detect the odor of benzene, the point estimate of the benzene exposure level is 28.5 ppm, and the approximate one-sided lower 95% confidence limit is 8.2 ppm. The present analysis also makes clear that odor does not provide an adequate warning of excessive levels of airborne benzene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increased incidences of neuro-inflammatory diseases in the mid-western United States of America (USA) have been linked to exposure to agriculture contaminants. Organic dust (OD) is a major contaminant in the animal production industry and is central to the respiratory symptoms in the exposed individuals. However, the exposure effects on the brain remain largely unknown. OD exposure is known to induce a pro-inflammatory phenotype in microglial cells. Further, blocking cytoplasmic NOX-2 using mitoapocynin (MA) partially curtail the OD exposure effects. Therefore, using a mouse model, we tested a hypothesis that inhaled OD induces neuroinflammation and sensory-motor deficits. Mice were administered with either saline, fluorescent lipopolysaccharides (LPSs), or OD extract intranasally daily for 5 days a week for 5 weeks. The saline or OD extract-exposed mice received either a vehicle or MA (3 mg/kg) orally for 3 days/week for 5 weeks. We quantified inflammatory changes in the upper respiratory tract and brain, assessed sensory-motor changes using rotarod, open-field, and olfactory test, and quantified neurochemicals in the brain. Inhaled fluorescent LPS (FL-LPS) was detected in the nasal turbinates and olfactory bulbs. OD extract exposure induced atrophy of the olfactory epithelium with reduction in the number of nerve bundles in the nasopharyngeal meatus, loss of cilia in the upper respiratory epithelium with an increase in the number of goblet cells, and increase in the thickness of the nasal epithelium. Interestingly, OD exposure increased the expression of HMGB1, 3- nitrotyrosine (NT), IBA1, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), hyperphosphorylated Tau (p-Tau), and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate (dUTP) nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells in the brain. Further, OD exposure decreased time to fall (rotarod), total distance traveled (open-field test), and olfactory ability (novel scent test). Oral MA partially rescued olfactory epithelial changes and gross congestion of the brain tissue. MA treatment also decreased the expression of HMGB1, 3-NT, IBA1, GFAP, and p-Tau, and significantly reversed exposure induced sensory-motor deficits. Neurochemical analysis provided an early indication of depressive behavior. Collectively, our results demonstrate that inhalation exposure to OD can cause sustained neuroinflammation and behavior deficits through lung-brain axis and that MA treatment can dampen the OD-induced inflammatory response at the level of lung and brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It was in 1835, in the wake of the Nullification Crisis that shook the United States with the threat of civil war over federal law, state's rights and the Slave Power, that Jerome Holgate, under the pseudonym 'Oliver Bolokitten', published his dystopian fiction A Sojourn in the City of Amalgamation. It posited the existence of an African body smell that would make anti-odour machines essential if American societies fell prey to the potential ravages of racial miscegenation. Two decades after Holgate offered his dystopian world-view of smell and race, 'Cephas Broadluck', a pseudonym for the American author Allen Gazlay, published Races of Mankind: With Travels in Grubland (1856), an allegorical attack on comparable forms of sensory and sexual 'amalgamation', also proposing olfactory detection as a racial protection for the white body politic. The antebellum era dystopias of Holgate and Gazlay combined ideas of truth and race through the sensory experiences of the nose, which had previously been socially conditioned to sense racial Others through a false consciousness about the smell of Africans throughout the Atlantic World. Despite the efforts of academics to deconstruct such absurd beliefs and experiences in the modern world, olfactory racism continues in the languages of both current political leaders and within the bowels of the Internet. Because these prejudicial perceptions continue through what seems for many racists to be biological experiences of truth, scholars must focus much more on analysing embodied perceptions of Othering if academic arguments about the social construction of race are to make any inroads against the return of racist, technologized and fascist modernity in the contemporary West. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cannabis odor can justify warrantless searches by police in some jurisdictions. • The detectability of cannabis odor was tested in a 2-alternative forced choice test. • Cannabis in HDPE and re-sealable sandwich bags was detected with high accuracy. • Cannabis in double vacuum-sealed plastic was detected only at chance levels. Olfactory detection of cannabis aroma by police officers can be the basis for warrantless searches of motor vehicles in many jurisdictions in the United States. The odor source in these cases is often dried cannabis flower contained in various casual wrappings as well as in more elaborate packaging. Here we investigate whether packaging format alters the detectability of the cannabis. Two cannabis strains and five packaging formats were evaluated. Untrained observers were presented with two containers and asked to identify, based only on smell, the container that held a sample of packaged cannabis (the other container held identical, but empty, packaging material). The results showed that open and casually packaged cannabis was identified with high accuracy, while material packaged in doubly vacuum-sealed plastic was correctly identified at rates no different from chance. The results may help address issues involving the detectability of cannabis aroma in law enforcement and other scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malignant fungating wounds present in 5–14% of advanced cancer patients in the United States and are a result of cancerous cells infiltrating and proliferating in the skin. Presentation of malignant fungating wounds often occurs in the last 6 months of life and therefore become symbols of impending death for patients and their families. Due to the incurable and severe nature of these wounds, patients require palliative care until death to minimize pain and suffering. Symptoms associated with these chronic wounds include malodor, pain, bleeding, necrosis, large amounts of exudate, increased microbial growth, and more. Limited research using culture-based techniques has been conducted on malignant fungating wounds and therefore no optimal approach to treating these wounds has been established. Despite limited data, associations between the cutaneous microbiome of these wounds and severity of symptoms have been made. The presence of at least one strain of obligate anaerobic bacteria is linked with severe odor and exudate. A concentration of over 105/g bacteria is linked with increased pain and exudate. Bacterial metabolites such as DMTS and putrescine are linked with components of malignant fungating wound odor and degradation of periwound skin. The few but significant associations made between the malignant fungating wound microbiome and severity of symptoms indicate that further study on this topic using 16S rRNA gene sequencing may reveal potential therapeutic targets within the microbiome to significantly improve current methods of treatment used in the palliative care approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION Among US adults 40 years and older, about 23% report problems with their ability to smell, and 19% report problems with their ability to taste. Chemosenses are a first line of defence against environmental hazards (e.g. fires and leaking gas). A potential risk factor of chemosensory disorders includes nicotine product use, such as cigarette use. This study aims to assess the relationship of taste and smell alterations with type of recent nicotine product use (e.g. inhaled versus smokeless), recent cigarette use, and mentholation status based on data from NHANES 2013-2014. METHODS A total of 3186 men and women, 40 years and older, from NHANES 2013-2014 were assessed for smell and taste impairment, according to their recent nicotine product use. Taste impairment was identified as inability to identify quinine as bitter in the whole-mouth taste test. Impairment of smell was defined as failing to identify six or more of eight specific odors. Logistic regression models were adjusted for age, gender, and race/ethnicity. RESULTS Approximately 13% of participants failed the smell examination. No significant association between smell examination outcome and recent nicotine product use was found, though recent cigarette use showed a trend toward positive association (OR=1.66, 95% CI: 0.76-3.63) and mentholation status showed a trend toward negative association (OR=0.57, 95% CI: 0.22-1.49) on smell examination results. About 17% of participants failed the taste examination, and trends toward positive association were seen between taste examination outcomes and both recent nicotine product use (OR=1.28, 95% CI: 0.99-1.65) and recent cigarette use (OR=1.30, 95% CI: 0.50-3.40). CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate that recent use of nicotine products has an inconsistent relationship to dysfunctions in taste and smell. However, limiting the use of inhaled nicotine products, such as from cigarette use, could prove beneficial to a person's taste and smell ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted after a series of incidences occurred at Waimea Canyon Middle School on Kauai, Hawaii. Some students and staff members exhibited symptoms such as throat irritation, tearing, and dizziness. These symptoms could be associated with natural causes or human activities, which include exposures to pesticides and odorous phytochemicals. At the time of the occurrences, Cleome gynandra (known locally as stinkweed) was growing in the fields near the school and might be a potential cause of the reported symptoms. This work was designed to study pesticides and phytochemicals in ambient air around Waimea Canyon Middle School in comparison with other locations on Kauai. Among many chemicals, top 29 were selected for the analysis of stinkweed-emitted chemicals in a chamber study. One out of the 29 chemicals was methyl isothiocyanate (MITC) that is a highly foul-smelling, noxious chemical at high concentrations. Approximately half of the 29 chemicals produced by stinkweed and trace amounts of five pesticides were detected in indoor and outdoor air samples collected from the passive and high volume air samplers. The average concentrations of MITC in Waimea outdoor air during daytime and nighttime were 13.1 and 5.6 ng m −3 , respectively. The average concentrations of the five pesticides DDTs, HCHs, chlorpyrifos, bifenthrin, and metolachlor in Waimea outdoor air were respectively 2.5, 2.3, 35, 43, and 23 ng m −3 during daytime and 2.4, 1.7, 33, 29, and 19 ng m −3 during nighttime. The concentrations of the pesticide and phytochemicals found in air on Kauai were below health concern levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This study examines asthma risk in facilities producing toluene diisocyanate (TDI). Methods: A total of 197 workers were monitored from 2007 to 2012. TDI air concentrations were used to estimate exposures. Results: The incidence of cases consistent with TDI-induced asthma was 0.009 per person-years (seven cases) or consistent with TDI-induced asthma or asthma indeterminate regarding work-relatedness was 0.012 (nine cases). increased risk of cases consistent with TDI asthma was observed for cumulative (odds ratio [OR] = 2.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07 to 4.05) per logarithm parts per billion-years and peak TDI exposures (OR = 1.18, 95% CI 1.06 to 1.32) (logarithm parts per billion). There was a weak association with cumulative and peak exposures for decline of short-term forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). Asthma symptoms were associated with workers noticing an odor of TDI (OR 6.02; 95% CI 1.36 to 26.68). Conclusions: There is evidence that cumulative and peak exposures are associated with TDI-induced asthma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brettanomyces may add complexity to wine at low concentrations but at high concentrations, can result in objectionable wines. The objective of this study was to determine the concentrations at which consumers from two different locations were able to detect Brettanomyces volatile compounds present in a red wine. A red wine blend, used in both countries, was spiked to create five treatments containing different concentrations of 4-ethylphenol (4-EP), 4-ethylguiacol (4-EG), and 4-ethylcatechol (4-EC) in a 5:1:1 ratio, respectively. These treatments were evaluated by consumers in the United States and Portugal (n = 121) using a difference from control test. Consumers were also classified as having low, medium, or high wine knowledge. Among the spiked samples, the greatest degree of difference was found between the second and third treatments, corresponding to reported detection and recognition threshold ranges of 4-EP and 4-EG. For some treatments, consumers from Portugal classified in the medium or high knowledge level reported significantly higher mean differences from the control than those in the low knowledge group (p < 0.05). Results demonstrated consumers' ability to detect differences in red wines due to Brettanomyces volatile compounds. Results provide useful context on how wine knowledge and cultural variants may affect the detection of Brettanomyces . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raffaelea lauricola , a fungus causing a vascular wilt (laurel wilt) in Lauraceae trees, was introduced into the United States in the early 2000s. It has devastated forests in the Southeast and has now moved into the commercial avocado groves in southern Florida. Trained detection canines are currently one of the few successful methods for early detection of pre-symptomatic diseased trees. In order to achieve the universal and frequent training required to have successful detection canines, it is desirable to create accessible, safe, and long-lasting training aids. However, identification of odorants and compounds is limited by several factors, including both the availability of chemicals and the need to present chemicals individually and in combination to detection canines. A method for the separation and identification of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from environmental substances for the creation of such a canine training aid is presented here. Headspace solid phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) was used to identify the odors present in avocado trees infected with the R. lauricola phytopathogen. Twenty-eight compounds were detected using this method, with nine present in greater than 80% of samples. The majority of these compounds were not commercially available as standard reference materials, and a canine trial was designed to identify the active odors without the need of pure chemical compounds. To facilitate the creation of a canine training aid, the VOCs above R. lauricola were separated by venting a 0.53 mm ID solgel-wax gas chromatography column to the atmosphere. Ten minute fractions of the odor profile were collected on cotton gauze in glass vials and presented to the detection canines in a series of field trials. The canines alerted to the VOCs from the vials that correspond to a portion of the chromatogram containing the most volatile species from R. lauricola. This innovative fractionation and collection method can be used to develop reliable and cost effective canine training aids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palliative care approaches that effectively manage distressful symptoms associated with wounds at the end of life remain elusive. This 4-week study examined a topical wound powder RGN107 for reducing pain, odor, and exudate in 50 patients with pressure ulcers, skin tears, and malignant/fungating and vascular wounds receiving hospice or palliative care and explored quality of life for the caregiver. Through an observational design, the outcomes were measured with visual analog scales, 2 pain questionnaires, and a caregiver quality-of-life instrument. Intent-to-treat analyses were used. Statistically significant reductions in pain (P = .001), odor (P = .04), and exudate (P = .00003) were observed. Caregiver quality of life remained unchanged (P= .28); however, improvements were noted in 3 subscales. Findings suggest topical RGN107 reduced pain, odor, and exudate in a highly challenged population with wounds at the end of life. A larger comparative effectiveness trial should be conducted with other wound powder comparators and usual care approaches and should include cost benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Preoccupation with perceived bodily odor has been described in neuropsychiatric disorders for more than a century; however, empirical research on olfactory reference syndrome (ORS) is scarce. This study investigated the phenomenology of ORS in a broadly ascertained, diverse sample.Method: Data were obtained from 253 subjects in an internet-based survey that operated from January - March 2010. Measures included the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale Modified for ORS (ORS-YBOCS), Work and Social Adjustment Scale (WSAS), Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS), and symptom specific questionnaires developed for this study.Results: Individuals reported, on average, moderately severe ORS symptoms. The average age of onset of ORS symptoms was 21.1 years, with 54% reporting a chronic, unremitting course. Individuals endorsed a lifetime average of two malodorous preoccupations, most commonly stool, garbage, and ammonia. Odors were most often reported to emanate from the armpits, feet, and breasts. Nearly all participants engaged in time-consuming rituals to try to hide or fix their perceived malodor (e.g., checking and camouflaging). Eighteen percent reported poor or delusional insight and 64.0% reported ideas or delusions of reference. More severe ORS symptoms were moderately associated with female gender, poorer insight, and higher levels of impairment (in work, social leisure, ability to maintain close relationships, and consecutive days housebound).Conclusion: This is the largest study on ORS to date. Results underscore the clinical significance and psychosocial impact of this understudied disorder, and highlight the need for subsequent research to examine clinical features and inform treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on the intellectual property (IP) protection of smells in the European Union (EU) in 2014. Topics include the possibility of protection for olfactory trademarks, the distinctiveness requirement in patent law, and European courts' interpretation of Community Trademark Regulation (CTMR).

For older adults aging in the community, living conditions can promote health, enhance coping, and reduce disablement—but they can also create stress and increase risks of illness, accidents, and decline. Although socioeconomic disparities in housing likely contribute to inequalities in interior conditions, I argue that living conditions are also shaped by social resources such as coresidential relationships, social network ties, and social support. In this article, I examine the distribution of a set of risky or stressful physical and ambient living conditions including structural disrepair, clutter, lack of cleanliness, noise, and odor. Using data from the National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP), I find that low-income and African American older adults have more disordered living conditions as do those with poorer physical and mental health. In addition, older adults who have a coresident partner, more nonresidential network ties, and more sources of instrumental support are exposed to fewer risky or harmful living conditions. This suggests that living conditions are an important, though overlooked, mechanism through which household composition, social networks, and social support affect health and well-being in later life. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Why are bodily washing practices the way they are in nursing? Michel Foucault argues that modern democratic societies discipline human bodies in accordance with political interests. In the extension of that argumentation we will show that bodily cleanliness in modern nursing may have been used as a disciplining tool. The first part of our discussion takes as its point of departure the second half of the 19th/the beginning of the 20th centuries, the period in which modern nursing emerged. At that time scientific theories on hygiene seem to have legitimized the political effort to produce a clean, pleasant-smelling, decent, obedient, and productive population. Doctors, nurses and teachers played important roles in the implementation of hygienic bodily washing practices. The second part of the discussion focuses on the post-War period. At that time humanistic needs theories seem to have legitimized political argumentation for independent patients who washed themselves if possible. Those who could not manage on their own, should, as far as possible, be washed by cheaper staff, so that nurses could concentrate on medical treatment. Finally we argue that present day bodily washing practices in nursing are in accordance with the norms of appearance and smell that arose in the second half of the 19th and the first part of the 20th centuries. We further argue that staff with little or no education perform much of the bodily nursing work. Self-care seems to be of interest only when it reduces public expenses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Objective: In the United States and European countries, the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT), the Quick Smell Identification Test (Q-SIT), a shorter version of the UPSIT, and “Sniffin’ Sticks” are widely used for testing olfaction. The odor stick identification test for Japanese (OSIT-J) has been manufactured in Japan. This was followed by the development of “Open Essence,” consisting of cards that make use of sealed odorants. This study examined the usefulness of Open Essence in young volunteers with normal olfaction. Method: The participants were 176 medical students in their clinical clerkships at the Department of Otolaryngology, Kochi Medical School Hospital. There were 111 males and 65 females, with a median age of 24 years (range 22–42 years). The olfactory function of all participants was confirmed as normal by screening with T&T olfactometry. Before beginning Open Essence, the subjects were asked to answer a questionnaire on their olfaction and habits. Results: Females had significantly better smell identification than males. Of the 12 odorants, “perfume” and “cooking gas” were difficult to identify, because perfume involves different imagery and the compounds that give the smell of gas are readily volatilized. In contrast, all participants recognized “curry” and “menthol,” probably because they are received as both somatosensory stimuli and smell. Conclusions: These results suggest that, with improvement, Open Essence might be used for testing olfaction in Japanese subjects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In this study, a pilot-scale sequential biological treatment system combining a biotrickling filter and biofilter was used to optimize the removal of variable emission H2S loadings ranging from 30 to 120 g m−3 h−1at a wastewater lift station in Brownsville, Texas USA. The biotrickling filter recycle water pH remained between 2.0 to 3.0 during the four months of unit operation and the overall removal efficiency for H2S was >99%. The biotrickling filter removal efficiency was 70 ± 8%, with an elimination capacity of 10 to 80 g m−3 h−1 while the biofilter elimination capacity ranged from 10 to 40 g m−3 h−1. The sequential treatment system was operated initially at an Empty Bed Residence Time (EBRT) of 120 s (50 s for the biotrickling filter and 70 s for biofilter) for two months and then at an EBRT of 60 s (25 s for biotrickling filter and 35s for biofilter) for the remainder of the operating period; remarkably, there was only a slight decrease in removal efficiency at 60 s EBRT. In order to qualitatively evaluate the changes in recycle water quality in the system on the performance of the unit in precipitating sulfur species, the equilibrium chemical model, Visual MINTEQ was employed. The model predicted speciation results based on the feed water quality and sulfur loadings, and also forecast some iron-sulfur complexes which have potential to form some complex precipitates. This research demonstrated that low pH re-circulating water quality in the biological treatment of H2S was possible without compromising the high removal efficiency, and that an improved understanding of the recycle water chemistry of the trickling unit of a sequential treatment system could be useful in the overall optimization of the process. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article discusses a narrative on the behavioral challenges faced by vole when making decisions about mate choice, same-sex competition, odor communication and sperm allocation. It refers to meadow voles as a seasonally breeding, non-monagamous microtine rodent that lives in northeastern U.S. and uses olfaction to navigate and chemical signals to communicate with conspecifics. It cites the use of meadow voles in studies since they use scent marks and over-marks to facilitate and coordinate male-female encounters and interactions. It indicates that voles share the ability to identify particular conspecifics and use this information to discriminate between them and react in a manner that increased their own survival.

We studied the adult ambulatory response of the predator, Laricobius nigrinus Fender (Coleoptera: Derodontidae), to odors from its prey, Adelges tsugae Annand, the hemlock woolly adelgid, and foliage of hemlock woolly adelgid, host hemlocks (Tsuga spp.), and other conifers. Both the predator and hemlock woolly adelgid are apparently native to western North America, but the predator is being released in the eastern United States, which has different hemlock species, for biological control of a lineage of hemlock woolly adelgid inadvertently introduced from Japan. L. nigrinus responded to odors from hemlock woolly adelgid host trees, but not to odors from hemlock woolly adelgid. L. nigrinus collected from hemlock woolly adelgid-infested western hemlock were more strongly attracted to odors from western hemlock [Tsuga heterophylla (Rafinesque) Sargent] than eastern hemlock [Tsuga canadensis (L.) Carrière] in most trials. Odors from western white pine (Pinus monticola Douglas ex D. Don) and white spruce [Picea glauca (Moench) Voss] were as attractive as western hemlock odors whereas odors from Douglas-fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii variety menziesii (Mirbel)] and ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa Douglas ex Lawson) were avoided. L. nigrinus reared on hemlock woolly adelgid-infested eastern hemlock in the laboratory were lethargic and were not attracted to either eastern or western hemlock odors. Predators collected in the field and tested monthly from December to March responded similarly each month, except February, when they flew rather than walked in the olfactometer, suggesting a period of dispersal or mate finding at that time of year. The implications of these results for programs to release L. nigrinus in the eastern United States for control of hemlock woolly adelgid are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Fragranced consumer products are pervasive in society. Relatively little is known about the composition of these products, due to lack of prior study, complexity of formulations, and limitations and protections on ingredient disclosure in the U.S. We investigated volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from 25 common fragranced consumer products—laundry products, personal care products, cleaning supplies, and air fresheners—using headspace analysis with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Our analysis found 133 different VOCs emitted from the 25 products, with an average of 17 VOCs per product. Of these 133 VOCs, 24 are classified as toxic or hazardous under U.S. federal laws, and each product emitted at least one of these compounds. For “green” products, emissions of these compounds were not significantly different from the other products. Of all VOCs identified across the products, only 1 was listed on any product label, and only 2 were listed on any material safety data sheet (MSDS). While virtually none of the chemicals identified were listed, this nonetheless accords with U.S. regulations, which do not require disclosure of all ingredients in a consumer product, or of any ingredients in a mixture called “fragrance.” Because the analysis focused on compounds emitted and listed, rather than exposures and effects, it makes no claims regarding possible risks from product use. Results of this study contribute to understanding emissions from common products, and their links with labeling and legislation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Accurate sampling methods are necessary when quantifying odor and volatile organic compound emissions at agricultural facilities. The commonly accepted methodology in the U.S. has been to collect odor samples in polyvinyl fluoride bags (PVF, brand name Tedlar®) and, subsequently, analyze with human panelists using dynamic triangular forced-choice olfactometry. The purpose of this research was to simultaneously quantify and compare recoveries of odor and odorous compounds from both commercial and homemade PVF sampling bags. A standard gas mixture consisting of p-cresol (40 μg m-3) and seven volatile fatty acids: acetic (2,311 μg m-3), propionic (15,800 μg m-3), isobutyric (1,686 μg m-3), butyric (1,049 μg m-3), isovaleric (1,236 μg m-3), valeric (643 μg m-3), and hexanoic (2,158 μg m-3) was placed in the PVF bags at times of 1 h, 1 d, 2 d, 3 d, and 7 d prior to compound and odor concentration analyses. Compound concentrations were quantified using sorbent tubes and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Odor concentration, intensity, and hedonic tone were measured using a panel of trained human subjects. Compound recoveries ranged from 2 to 40% after 1 h and 0 to 14% after 7 d. Between 1 h and 7 d, odor concentrations increased by 45% in commercial bags, and decreased by 39% in homemade bags. Minimal changes were observed in intensity and hedonic tone over the same time period. These results suggest that PVF bags can bias individual compound concentrations and odor as measured by dynamic triangular forced-choice olfactometry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Male orchid bees collect volatiles, from both floral and non-floral sources, that they expose as pheromone analogues (perfumes) during courtship display. The chemical profile of these perfumes, which includes terpenes and aromatic compounds, is both species-specific and divergent among closely related lineages. Thus, fragrance composition is thought to play an important role in prezygotic reproductive isolation in euglossine bees. However, because orchid bees acquire fragrances entirely from exogenous sources, the chemical composition of male perfumes is prone to variation due to environmental heterogeneity across habitats. We used Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) to characterize the perfumes of 114 individuals of the green orchid bee ( Euglossa aff. viridissima) sampled from five native populations in Mesoamerica and two naturalized populations in the southeastern United States. We recorded a total of 292 fragrance compounds from hind-leg extracts, and found that overall perfume composition was different for each population. We detected a pronounced chemical dissimilarity between native (Mesoamerica) and naturalized (U.S.) populations that was driven both by proportional differences of common compounds as well as the presence of a few chemicals unique to each population group. Despite these differences, our data also revealed remarkable qualitative consistency in the presence of several major fragrance compounds across distant populations from dissimilar habitats. In addition, we demonstrate that naturalized bees are attracted to and collect large quantities of triclopyr 2-butoxyethyl ester, the active ingredient of several commercially available herbicides. By comparing incidence values and consistency indices across populations, we identify putative functional compounds that may play an important role in courtship signaling in this species of orchid bee. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the demand for ecotourism destinations is growing, so has the intensity of competition in this sector. Therefore, using an Internet panel sample of 154 U.S. residents, this research finds that inserting a written smell reference within the text of an ecotourism print ad (e.g., Ecotourism at Its Finest...Recreate, Rejuvenate, and Enjoy the Fragrant Mountain Air at the Graham Hotel) influences individuals' affective responses to the ad. This research also finds that the influence of this written smell reference on affective responses is moderated by the individual's lifestyle interests, including their connectedness to nature and intention to take future ecotourism trips. Gender, however, has no moderating impact. The managerial and research implications of these findings are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study addressed the effects of hot water (HW) quarantine treatment as mandated by the USDA-APHIS, for all mangoes imported to the United States, on the visual and compositional quality factors, aroma volatile production, respiration rate, and electrolyte leakage of fresh-cut ‘Kent’ mango slices during subsequent storage at 5°C for 10 d. The experiment was conducted twice during two Florida mango seasons, with fruit from two different sources. Results from the two harvests were significantly different and therefore were analyzed separately. In general, the visual quality, electrolyte leakage, firmness, and aroma volatile production (based on the quantification of 16 aroma volatiles) did not differ between the fresh-cut slices prepared from HW- and non-HW-treated fruit. The fresh-cut slices from non-HW-treated fruit had higher soluble solids content than the HW-treated samples. There were also differences between the treatments for respiration rate, titratable acidity, and pH; but, the results were contradictory between the two harvests. Overall, the results suggest that the HW quarantine treatment applied to whole mangoes does not significantly affect the quality of fresh-cut ‘Kent’ mango slices stored at 5°C. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Episodic occurrences of cucumber odor caused by the alga Synura petersenii in Meander Creek Reservoir (MCR), northeastern Ohio, USA, are partly attributed to increased water transparency resulting from decreased phosphorus and suspended solids loading from the watershed. The first documented occurrence of nuisance odor levels was in 1984, 52 years after the reservoir was filled. This indicates that previous environmental factors constraining the growth of S. petersenii have been relaxed, probably from changes in the physical–chemical environment in the reservoir caused by changes in land use in the catchment. Reduction in farming since 1950, and diversion of sewage around the reservoir in 1977, reduced suspended solids and total phosphorus loading into the reservoir during the time that the cucumber odors occurred. These observations support the hypothesis that increased transparency of the reservoir, resulting from decreased sediment loading and reduced productivity, has permitted the occasional occurrence of nuisance densities of S. petersenii. Based on available data, pH, iron, and silica do not appear to be key factors regulating growth of S. petersenii in MCR. The transition to lower turbidity and total phosphorus concentrations from catchment restoration actions may increases the risk of S. petersenii blooms and cucumber odor episodes. While the overall benefits of cleaner raw water for water supply may outweigh this risk, it is desirable to understand the factors that promote nuisance growths and take actions to control them. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Ammonia is one of the most widely produced and utilized chemicals in the U.S., and while numerous lab studies have been undertaken, there is no consensus on the odor threshold. In contrast to controlled lab conditions used to determine odor thresholds, the field conditions following unintentional chemical releases are uncontrolled and highly variable due to many factors. A critical component in managing the response to these chemical spills involves understanding how lab data could be applied to uncontrolled field conditions in and around the affected community. It was postulated that analysis of field data collected following accidental releases of ammonia might augment and verify data collected in lab experiments. The widespread transport and use of ammonia has resulted in a number of unintentional releases of ammonia into the environment as a result of train derailments, tanker spills, and plant accidents. In the field studies reported here, air monitoring data were collected following a variety of accidental ammonia releases. Of 6539 readings between 0 and 1 ppm, odor was detected only in 208 samples (3.2%). Of 65 readings between 1.1 and 1.5 ppm, odor was detected in 51 samples (78.5%). These data are consistent with an ammonia odor threshold within a concentration range of 1.1-1.5 ppm. This level is consistent with the recently published odor threshold data for ammonia, but is significantly lower than frequently cited historical data. Furthermore, a review of the ammonia literature demonstrates that the ammonia odor threshold is significantly lower than levels that produce eye, nose, or throat irritation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study determined the percentages of individuals who report adverse effects from exposure to fragranced products in the U.S. population and in subpopulations of those with asthma or chemical sensitivity. Data were collected through telephone interviews from two geographically weighted, random samples of the continental U.S. in two surveys during 2002-2003 and 2005-2006 (1,057 and 1,058 cases, respectively). Respondents were asked if they find being next to someone wearing a scented product irritating or appealing; if they have headaches, breathing difficulties, or other problems when exposed to air fresheners or deodorizers; and if they are irritated by the scent from laundry products, fabric softeners, or dryer sheets that are vented outside. Results aggregated from both surveys found that 30.5% of the general population reported scented products on others irritating, 19% reported adverse health effects from air fresheners, and 10.9% reported irritation by scented laundry products vented outside. This study reveals that a considerable percentage of the U.S. population reports adverse health effects or irritation from fragranced products, with higher percentages among those with asthma and chemical sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Odors can affect health and quality of life. Industrialized animal agriculture creates odorant compounds that are components of a mixture of agents that could trigger symptoms reported by neighbors of livestock operations. OBJECTIVE: We quantified swine odor episodes reported by neighbors and the relationships of these episodes with environmental measurements. METHODS: Between September 2003 and September 2005, 101 nonsmoking volunteers living within 1.5 mi of industrial swine operations in 16 neighborhoods in eastern North Carolina completed twice-daily odor diaries for approximately 2 weeks. Meteorological conditions, hydrogen sulfide, and particulate matter ≤ 10 µm in aerodynamic diameter (PM10) were monitored in each neighborhood. We used mixed models to partition odor variance within and between people and between neighborhoods, and to quantify relationships between environmental factors and odor. RESULTS: Participants reported 1,655 episodes of swine odor. In nine neighborhoods, odor was reported on more than half of study-days. Odor ratings were related to temperature, PM10, and semivolatile PM10 in standard but not mixed models. In mixed models, odor increased 0.15 ± 0.05 units (mean ± SE) for a 1-ppb increase in H2S, and 0.45 ± 0.14 units for a 10-µg/m3 increase in PM10 at wind speeds > 6.75 miles per hour. The odds of reporting a change in daily activities due to odor increased 62% for each unit increase in average odor during the prior 12 hr (t-value = 7.17). CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that malodor from swine operations is commonly present in these communities and that the odors reported by neighbors are related to objective environmental measurements and interruption of activities of daily life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on sensory analysis relative to drinking water quality in the U.S. It states that a stronger American Water Works Association (AWWA) Taste and Odor Committee has emerged, with dedicated members who work together to understand and solve complex taste-and-odor problems. It says that sensory analysis will continue to be used to improve drinking water flavor and to understand customer needs. It will continue to spread into new and exciting areas, including global warming and homeland security.

In this study, a copolymer, cyclodextrin/epichlorohydrin was synthesized and used as an adsorbent to remove two taste and odor causing compounds, namely, MIB and geosmin from the Lake Michigan water. The removal efficiency of these compounds using the copolymer on average was 74.5% for MIB and 77.5% for geosmin as compared to the removal efficiency using powdered activated carbon that resulted in 52.9% and 67% removal, respectively, for the same compounds. The removal efficiencies were examined for an initial concentration range of 20 to 120 μg/L for both MIB and geosmin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few data exist regarding suitable feral swine (Sus scrofa) attractants in the United States. We compared species- specific visitation and contact rates of mammals to 11 candidate feral swine attractants at scent stations using motion- sensing digital photography to identify promising attractants. We found feral swine had greater visitation rates to apple and strawberry stations than to control stations. We recommend managers consider using strawberry attractants for feral swine-specific applications. If, however, a general feral swine attractant is needed, then apple, berry, or caramel attractants may perform well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The reproductive biology of Fopius ceratitivorus Wharton, a recently discovered African parasitoid, was studied in quarantine in Hawaii to facilitate its mass production for biological control of the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata. Mean longevity of host-deprived and ovipositing females was 17.3±0.9d and 16.2±0.5d, respectively. Ovarian maturation peaked at 61.6 mature eggs per female on the fifth day after eclosion and declined thereafter. Mean number of offspring produced per day by mated females was 5.1±0.4, and realized fecundity expressed as total eggs deposited during the female’s life time was 107.8±12.8. Females were more attracted, to and reproduced significantly more, in fruit substrates containing odors of adult flies and eggs rather than fruit substrates artificially inoculated with fly eggs. Our findings suggest that F. ceratitivorus is a promising new parasitoid for biological control of C. capitata in Hawaii. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Recent reports clearly indicate that odor emitted from concentrated livestock production facilities in the Midwest of the US is a significant social problem that negatively impacts rural and state economies, human health, and the quality of rural life. A potential incremental approach to dealing with livestock odor is the use of shelterbelts arranged in strategic designs near and within livestock facilities. This review outlines the various ways that shelterbelts can be effective technology which bio-physically mitigates odor thereby reducing social conflict from odor nuisance. The biophysical potential of shelterbelts to mitigate livestock odor arises from the tree/shrub impacts on the central characteristics and physical behavior of livestock odor. As the majority of odors generated in animal facilities that are detectable at appreciable distances travel as particulates, there is compelling evidence that shelterbelts can ameliorate livestock odor by impeding the movement of these particulates. Because the odor source is near the ground and the tendency of livestock odor is to travel along the ground, shelterbelts of modest heights (i.e. 20-30 ft) may be ideal for odor interception, disruption, and dilution. Shelterbelts can be adapted to fit almost any production situation. Depending on shelterbelt health, these trees can provide long term, year round odor interception, with increasing effectiveness over time. Additionally, more is becoming known about how landscape aesthetics affect how people might perceive livestock odor, suggesting that landscape elements such as shelterbelts can lead to aesthetic improvements and perhaps more positive opinions of livestock odor and the farm systems that create them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article investigates the bias of Tedlar bags in the measurement of agricultural odorants by researchers from the Department of Agriculture in the U.S. Odor regulations typically specify the use of dynamic dilution olfactometry as a method to quantify odor emissions, and Tedlar bags are the preferred holding container for grab samples. This study was conducted to determine if Tedlar bags affect the integrity of sampled air from animal operations. The results indicate that significant odorant bias occurs when using Tedlar bags for the sampling of odors from animal production facilities.