bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adsorption isotherms of copper, lead, nickel, and zinc in two Chilean soils in single- and multi-component systems: sewage sludge impact on the adsorption isotherms of Diguillin soil
Authors: Cazanga Marcia , Gutierrez Marlen , Escudey Mauricio , Galindo Gerardo , Reyes Antonio , Chang Andrew C.
Published: February 2008

The potential impact of the addition of sewage sludge from domestic waste water treatment plants on agricultural soils is a worldwide concern. A proportion of heavy metals in sewage sludge will be present in the soil solution; their equilibria can be modified by the competitive interactions between them, changing not only their mobility but also their adsorption pattern. The competitive adsorption of heavy metals by soils has been studied by several authors in simple model substrates and synthetic minerals, and also in soils but restricted to binary adsorption. In the present paper the modification of the Cu, Pb, Ni, and Zn interactions with soils as a consequence of a competitive adsorption on the available adsorption sites on Andisols were determined.The single- and multi-component adsorption of Cu, Pb, Ni, and Zn were carried out at constant ionic strength (0.1 m KNO3). The adsorption was monitored by ICP-OES and the Langmuir model was applied to fit the adsorption isotherms.Competitive adsorption isotherms indicate a reduction of the adsorption in the control soils when compared to the single adsorption isotherms. The maximum adsorption constants for single- and multi-component isotherms for Diguillín soil were 38.2 and 33.3 mmol/kg for Cu, 48.1 and 30.0 mmol/kg for Pb, 5.4 and 2.1 mmol/kg for Ni, and 18.0 and 8.1 mmol/kg for Zinc, respectively. With Ralun soil, lower values were obtained, but the same tendency was observed.The maximum adsorption and the affinity constant increased for all cations, after the addition of sewage sludge to Diguillin soil.
Sources of nitrous oxide from 15N-labelled animal urine and urea fertiliser with and without a nitrification inhibitor, dicyandiamide (DCD)
Authors: Di H. J. , Cameron K. C.
Published: February 2008

A field lysimeter study was conducted to determine the sources of N2O emitted following the application of dairy cow urine and urea fertiliser labelled with 15N, with and without a nitrification inhibitor, dicyandiamide (DCD). The results show that the application of cow urine at 1000 kg N/ha significantly increased N2O emissions above that from urea applied alone at 25 kg N/ha. The application of urine seemed to have a priming effect, increasing N2O emissions from the soil N pool. Treating the soil with DCD significantly (P < 0.05) decreased N2O emissions from the urine-applied treatment by 72%. The percentage of N2O-N derived from the applied N was 53.1% in the urine-applied treatment and this was reduced to 29.9% when DCD was applied. On average, about 43% of the N2O emitted in the urine-applied treatments was from nitrification. The application of DCD did not have a major effect on the relative contributions of nitrification and denitrification to N2O emissions in the urine treatments. This indicates that the DCD nitrification inhibitor decreased the contributions to N2O emissions from both nitrification and denitrification.
The ability of Distichlis spicata to grow sustainably within a saline discharge zone while improving the soil chemical and physical properties
Authors: Sargeant M. R. , Tang C. , Sale P. W. G.
Published: February 2008

Landholder observations indicate that the growth of Distichlis spicata in saline discharge sites improves the soil condition. An extensive soil sampling survey was conducted at the Wickepin field site in Western Australia, where D. spicata had been growing for 8 years, to test the hypothesis that this halophytic grass will make improvements in chemical and physical properties of the soil. Soil measurements included saturated hydraulic conductivity, water-stable aggregates, root length and dry weight, electrical conductivity, pH, and soil nitrogen and carbon. Results confirm that marked differences in soil properties occurred under D. spicata. For example, a 12-fold increase in saturated hydraulic conductivity occurred where D. spicata had been growing for 8 years, compared to adjacent control soil where no grass had been growing. There were also improvements in aggregate stability, with the most notable improvements in the top 0.10 m of soil, again with the greatest improvements occurring where 8 years of growth had occurred. Soil nitrogen and carbon increased under the sward, with the biggest increases occurring in the top 0.10 m of soil. Electrical conductivity measurements were more variable, mostly due to the large spatial and temporal variation encountered. However, the findings generally support the proposition that the growth of D. spicata does not lead to an accumulation of salt within the rooting zone.
Using a legacy soil sample to develop a mid-IR spectral library
Authors: Rossel R. A. Viscarra , Jeon Y. S. , Odeh I. O. A. , McBratney A. B.
Published: February 2008

This paper describes the development of a diffuse reflectance spectral library from a legacy soil sample. When developing a soil spectral library, it is important to consider the number of samples that are needed to adequately describe the soil variability in the region in which the library is to be used; the manner in which the soil is sampled, handled, prepared, stored, and scanned; and the reference analytical procedures used. As with any type of modelling, the dictum is ‘garbage in = garbage out’ and hopefully the converse ‘quality in = quality out’. The aims of this paper are to: (i) develop a soil mid infrared (mid-IR) diffuse reflectance spectral library for cotton-growing regions of eastern Australia from a legacy soil sample, (ii) derive soil spectral calibrations for the prediction of soil properties with uncertainty, and (iii) assess the accuracy of the predictions and populate the legacy soil database with good quality information. A scheme for the construction and use of this spectral library is presented. A total of 1878 soil samples from different layers were scanned. They originated from the Upper Namoi, Namoi, and Gwydir Valley catchments of north-western New South Wales (NSW) and the McIntyre region of southern Queensland (Qld). A conditioned Latin hypercube sampling (cLHS) scheme was used to sample the spectral data space and select 213 representative samples for laboratory soil analyses. Using these data, partial least-squares regression (PLSR) was used to construct the calibration models, which were validated internally using cross validation and externally using an independent test dataset. Models for organic C (OC), cation exchange capacity (CEC), clay content, exchangeable Ca, total N (TN), total C (TC), gravimetric moisture content θg, total sand and exchangeable Mg were robust and produced accurate results (R2adj. > 0.75 for both cross and test set validations). The root mean squared error (RMSE) of mid-IR-PLSR predictions was compared to those from (blind) duplicate laboratory measurements. Mid-IR-PLSR produced lower RMSE values for soil OC, clay content, and θg. Finally, bootstrap aggregation-PLSR (bagging-PLSR) was used to predict soil properties with uncertainty for the entire library, thus repopulating the legacy soil database with good quality soil information.
Land application of farm dairy effluent to a mole and pipe drained soil: implications for nutrient enrichment of winter-spring drainage
Authors: Houlbrooke D. J. , Horne D. J. , Hedley M. J. , Snow V. O. , Hanly J. A.
Published: February 2008

Spray irrigation of farm dairy effluent (FDE) to artificially drained land in accordance with deferred irrigation criteria causes minimal direct drainage of partially treated FDE at the time of irrigation. The influence of deferred irrigation of FDE on the subsequent nutrient enrichment of winter–spring drainage from mole and pipe systems is unknown. Research was conducted in the Manawatu region, New Zealand, to investigate the influence of deferred irrigation of FDE on the quality of water in artificial drainage. The experimental site was established on a Pallic soil (Tokomaru silt loam) at the No. 4 dairy farm at Massey University, Palmerston North. There were 6 plots (each 40 m by 40 m), each with an isolated mole and pipe drainage network. Four of the plots received fertiliser according to the farm’s fertiliser program (non-effluent plots), while the other 2 plots received applications of FDE according to the deferred irrigation scheduling criteria (effluent plots). All of the plots were subject to the farm’s standard grazing management.The average concentrations of N and P in the 2003 winter drainage (average 236 mm) from both the non-effluent and FDE irrigated plots were well above the threshold concentrations that stimulate aquatic weed growth in fresh water bodies. Annual nutrient losses of 31.4 kg N ha/year and 0.65 kg P ha/year in drainage were recorded for non-effluent plots. Deferred irrigation of FDE in the summer period did not increase the loss of N in winter–spring drainage (N loss from effluent plots was 31.1 kg N ha/year) but did cause a significant increase (P < 0.001) in total P in drainage (an additional 1.03 kg P/ha, c. 160% of losses from non-effluent plots, a loss of 3.3% of applied P). Furthermore, an irrigation of FDE to near-saturated soil in mid September resulted in the direct drainage of partially treated effluent, and hence, N and P concentrations in drainage were 6–10-fold greater than those that would normally be expected from drainage events induced by winter–spring rainfall. This illustrates the importance of scheduling FDE irrigation in accordance with deferred irrigation principles.
The influence of age on reproductive success and diet in Australasian gannets (Morus serrator) breeding at Pope's Eye, Port Phillip Bay, Victoria
Authors: Pyk T. M. , Bunce A. , Norman F. I.
Published: February 2008

The influence of age on reproductive success and diet was examined in ‘old’ (experienced; 12 years and older) and ‘young’ (5–8 years of age) Australasian gannets (Morus serrator) breeding at Pope’s Eye, Port Phillip Bay, Victoria during the 2002–2003 breeding period. Although food availability, as indicated by commercial fish catches, throughout this breeding period was low, there were no significant differences in breeding success or chick growth between groups. Nevertheless, old birds tended to have higher reproductive success, replacing more lost eggs and fledging chicks of a greater mass. However, old birds also laid more eggs that failed to hatch. Five fish species, including jack mackerel (Trachurus declivis), barracouta (Thyrsites atun), redbait (Emmelichthys nitidus), anchovy (Engraulis australis) and red mullet (Upeneichthys vlamingii), were important in the gannet diet during this breeding period. There were no significant differences in dietary parameters, including range of species and size of prey, between old and young gannets, nor were there any differences between those of the chicks and their parents, suggesting that adults do not forage selectively for their chicks. This study showed that even during a period of presumed low food availability, when experienced (older) birds might be expected to have enhanced success, the differences between these and less experienced (younger) birds may not be apparent.
Diet of the western pygmy possum, Cercartetus concinnus Gould (Marsupialia: Burramyidae), at Innes National Park, South Australia, and evaluation of diet sampling methods
Authors: Pestell Angela J. L. , Petit Sophie
Published: February 2008

The diet of a population of western pygmy possums, Cercartetus concinnus Gould (Marsupialia: Burramyidae), at Innes National Park, South Australia, was examined using faecal and fur pollen swab samples in relation to monthly plant phenological data. Eucalyptus pollen was the most abundant in both faeces and in fur swab samples, followed by Melaleuca pollen; plant exudates could not be examined by this study. Moth scales were found in 26% of the scat samples. Faecal samples comprised most plant species identified (15 of 17), but up to 25% of plant species recorded from fur pollen swabs were not recorded from faeces. The relatively high frequencies of plant species represented in fur pollen swabs indicates that this method is valuable for supplementing faecal analysis used to determine plant visitation by nectarivorous animals.
Innovative pandanus-tool folding by New Caledonian crows
Authors: Hunt Gavin R. , Abdelkrim Jawad , Anderson Michael G. , Holzhaider Jennifer C. , Marshall Amy J. , Gemmell Neil J. , Gray Russell D.
Published: February 2008

The ratcheting of evolutionary innovations over time has enabled humans to produce complex technology. This process requires (1) technological innovations, (2) the accurate transmission of innovations by social learning, and (3) the faithful maintenance of new technology by its standardised reproduction. Although nonhuman primates are good behavioural innovators, there is no evidence that they have evolved cumulative technology. It has been previously suggested that New Caledonian crows have made cumulative changes to their pandanus tool manufacture. However, technological innovation by individual New Caledonian crows in the wild had not been observed. Here, we report that two distantly related male crows at the same location have a novel way of using pandanus tools by first folding them into a boomerang-like shape. The fine manipulation to fold tools was highly routinised and its two main manipulatory components (direction of head movement and holding technique) were exclusively lateralised. As a consequence the fold arrangement was invariable irrespective of a tool’s position before folding. The males’ tool-folding confirms that New Caledonian crows have a disposition to routinise and lateralise complex sequences of manipulatory actions. Such a disposition may facilitate the evolution of cumulative technology because it can act to standardise the reproduction of a technological innovation.
Tipping elements in the Earth's climate system
Authors: Lenton Timothy M. , Held Hermann , Kriegler Elmar , Hall Jim W. , Lucht Wolfgang , Rahmstorf Stefan , Schellnhuber Hans Joachim
Published: February 2008

The term “tipping point” commonly refers to a critical threshold at which a tiny perturbation can qualitatively alter the state or development of a system. Here we introduce the term “tipping element” to describe large-scale components of the Earth system that may pass a tipping point. We critically evaluate potential policy-relevant tipping elements in the climate system under anthropogenic forcing, drawing on the pertinent literature and a recent international workshop to compile a short list, and we assess where their tipping points lie. An expert elicitation is used to help rank their sensitivity to global warming and the uncertainty about the underlying physical mechanisms. Then we explain how, in principle, early warning systems could be established to detect the proximity of some tipping points.
DNA barcoding the floras of biodiversity hotspots
Authors: Lahaye Renaud , van der Bank Michelle , Bogarin Diego , Warner Jorge , Pupulin Franco , Gigot Guillaume , Maurin Olivier , Duthoit Sylvie , Barraclough Timothy G. , Savolainen Vincent
Published: February 2008

DNA barcoding is a technique in which species identification is performed by using DNA sequences from a small fragment of the genome, with the aim of contributing to a wide range of ecological and conservation studies in which traditional taxonomic identification is not practical. DNA barcoding is well established in animals, but there is not yet any universally accepted barcode for plants. Here, we undertook intensive field collections in two biodiversity hotspots (Mesoamerica and southern Africa). Using >1,600 samples, we compared eight potential barcodes. Going beyond previous plant studies, we assessed to what extent a “DNA barcoding gap” is present between intra- and interspecific variations, using multiple accessions per species. Given its adequate rate of variation, easy amplification, and alignment, we identified a portion of the plastid
matK
gene as a universal DNA barcode for flowering plants. Critically, we further demonstrate the applicability of DNA barcoding for biodiversity inventories. In addition, analyzing >1,000 species of Mesoamerican orchids, DNA barcoding with
matK
alone reveals cryptic species and proves useful in identifying species listed in Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) appendixes.
Manifold parametrizations by eigenfunctions of the Laplacian and heat kernels
Authors: Jones Peter W. , Maggioni Mauro , Schul Raanan
Published: February 2008

We use heat kernels or eigenfunctions of the Laplacian to construct local coordinates on large classes of Euclidean domains and Riemannian manifolds (not necessarily smooth, e.g., with 𝒞
α
metric). These coordinates are bi-Lipschitz on large neighborhoods of the domain or manifold, with constants controlling the distortion and the size of the neighborhoods that depend only on natural geometric properties of the domain or manifold. The proof of these results relies on novel estimates, from above and below, for the heat kernel and its gradient, as well as for the eigenfunctions of the Laplacian and their gradient, that hold in the non-smooth category, and are stable with respect to perturbations within this category. Finally, these coordinate systems are intrinsic and efficiently computable, and are of value in applications.
Drug policy in sport: hidden assumptions and inherent contradictions
Authors: SMITH AARON C. T. , STEWART BOB
Published: February 2008

Introduction and Aims. This paper considers the assumptions underpinning the current drugs‐in‐sport policy arrangements. Design and Methods. We examine the assumptions and contradictions inherent in the policy approach, paying particular attention to the evidence that supports different policy arrangements. Results. We find that the current anti‐doping policy of the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) contains inconsistencies and ambiguities. WADA's policy position is predicated upon four fundamental principles; first, the need for sport to set a good example; secondly, the necessity of ensuring a level playing field; thirdly, the responsibility to protect the health of athletes; and fourthly, the importance of preserving the integrity of sport. A review of the evidence, however, suggests that sport is a problematic institution when it comes to setting a good example for the rest of society. Neither is it clear that sport has an inherent or essential integrity that can only be sustained through regulation. Furthermore, it is doubtful that WADA's anti‐doping policy is effective in maintaining a level playing field, or is the best means of protecting the health of athletes. Discussion and Conclusions. The WADA anti‐doping policy is based too heavily on principals of minimising drug use, and gives insufficient weight to the minimisation of drug‐related harms. As a result drug‐related harms are being poorly managed in sport. We argue that anti‐doping policy in sport would benefit from placing greater emphasis on a harm minimisation model.
Barriers to, and incentives for, the transfer of opioid‐dependent people on methadone maintenance treatment from secondary care to primary health care
Authors: SHERIDAN JANIE , GOODYEAR‐SMITH FELICITY , BUTLER RACHAEL , WHEELER AMANDA , GOHNS ANNETTE
Published: February 2008

Aim. To explore barriers to, and incentives for, clients on methadone‐maintenance treatment (MMT) in Auckland, New Zealand to transfer from secondary care to general practitioner (GP) care. Design. Surveys (with free text response sections) of MMT secondary care staff, stabilised clinic clients, authorised GPs and GP patients. Results. High response rates from secondary care staff (77%) and GPs (74%). Barriers to stable clients' transfer included financial cost and attitudes of secondary care staff and clients. Incentives for patient transfer included confidentiality, a holistic approach to their care, continuity of care, increased patient control, convenience and avoidance of contact with other opioid‐dependent people. Distrust in the quality of care provided by authorised GPs was a major barrier for some secondary care staff and their clients, despite prerequisite training for authorisation. In contrast, patients rated primary better than secondary care with none stating a likelihood to return to the secondary service within 6 months. Conclusions. Progression from secondary to primary care should be incorporated in MMT planning from the outset, with secondary services staff reassured about the quality of primary care. An integrated transition period and exploration of funding options to assist transfer from largely publicly funded secondary to largely privately funded primary care are also recommended.
Buprenorphine injection in Melbourne, Australia—an update
Authors: AITKEN CAMPBELL K. , HIGGS PETER G. , HELLARD MARGARET E.
Published: February 2008

Objective.To investigate the prevalence and associations of buprenorphine injection among a field‐recruited cohort of injecting drug users.Design.Cross‐sectional data from a prospective longitudinal cohort. Setting. Metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. Subjects. Current injecting drug users (IDUs).Main Outcome Measures.Prevalence of buprenorphine injection, associations with location, buprenorphine as prescribed pharmacotherapy, markers of hepatitis C virus (HCV) exposure and risk behaviours for HCV.Results. More than 10% of our 316 participants reported buprenorphine as the drug they had most often injected, and 32% had injected buprenorphine at least once in the 3 months prior to interview. Primary buprenorphine injection was significantly more likely to be reported by IDUs recruited at one of our three research sites, and by those being prescribed buprenorphine for opioid dependence. Frequency of sharing a used needle was also associated with buprenorphine injection, but HCV exposure was not.Conclusions.Buprenorphine injection has become entrenched among some groups of Victorian IDUs. The practice carries serious risks to health, including some related to microbiological contamination of buprenorphine during diversion. While measures can be taken to reduce the occurrence of buprenorphine diversion and injection and the associated harm, an alternative harm reduction measure would be to provide IDUs with an injectable pharmacotherapy.
Blood Coagulation, Inflammation, and Malaria
Authors: Francischetti Ivo M. B. , Seydel Karl B. , Monteiro Robson Q.
Published: February 2008

Malaria remains a highly prevalent disease in more than 90 countries and accounts for at least 1 million deaths every year. Plasmodium falciparum infection is often associated with a procoagulant tonus characterized by thrombocytopenia and activation of the coagulation cascade and fibrinolytic system; however, bleeding and hemorrhage are uncommon events, suggesting that a compensated state of blood coagulation activation occurs in malaria. This article (i) reviews the literature related to blood coagulation and malaria in a historic perspective, (ii) describes basic mechanisms of coagulation, anticoagulation, and fibrinolysis, (iii) explains the laboratory changes in acute and compensated disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), (iv) discusses the implications of tissue factor (TF) expression in the endothelium of P. falciparum infected patients, and (v) emphasizes the procoagulant role of parasitized red blood cells (RBCs) and activated platelets in the pathogenesis of malaria. This article also presents the Tissue Factor Model (TFM) for malaria pathogenesis, which places TF as the interface between sequestration, endothelial cell (EC) activation, blood coagulation disorder, and inflammation often associated with the disease. The relevance of the coagulation‐inflammation cycle for the multiorgan dysfunction and coma is discussed in the context of malaria pathogenesis.

[Supplementary materials are available for this article. Go to the publisher's online edition of Microcirculation to access this free supplemental resource]
Particle confinement and transport coefficients in ac plasmas on the HT-7 superconducting tokamak
Authors: Gao Xiang , Jie Yinxian , Han Xiaofeng , Yang Yao , Zhang Wenyang , Xu Qiang , Liu Haiqing , Li Jiangang
Published: February 2008

A quasi-steady-state alternating current (ac) plasma operation was achieved successfully on the HT-7 superconducting tokamak. It is found in ac plasmas that the particle confinement time of positive current plasma (τp∼ 17 ms) is lower than that of negative current (τp∼ 31 ms) plasma. Therefore, the particle transport coefficients are investigated in ac plasmas by the gas puff modulation method on the HT-7 tokamak. It is observed that the particle diffusion coefficient (D) for the positive plasma current case is almost the same as for the negative one, but the absolute value of inward pinch velocity (V) of positive current plasma is much lower than that of the negative one. The evolution of density profile is studied in detail in ac plasmas.
Observation of spontaneously excited waves in the ion cyclotron frequency range on JT-60U
Authors: Ichimura M. , Higaki H. , Kakimoto S. , Yamaguchi Y. , Nemoto K. , Katano M. , Ishikawa M. , Moriyama S. , Suzuki T.
Published: February 2008

In this paper, experimental observations of spontaneously excited waves in the ion cyclotron range of frequency (ICRF) on JT-60U are described. The fluctuations in ICRF are driven by the presence of non-thermal ion distribution in magnetically confined plasmas. Two types of magnetic fluctuations are detected: one is due to high-energy D ions from neutral beam (NB) injections and the other is due to fusion products (FPs) of3He and T ions. These fluctuations have been reported as ion cyclotron emissions (ICEs) in the burning plasma experiments on large tokamaks. This paper describes the first measurement of the spatial structures of the excited modes in the poloidal and toroidal directions. It is confirmed by using ICRF antennas as pickup loops that all modes excited spontaneously have magnetic components. The modes due to D ions have zero or a small toroidal wave numberkz. On the other hand, the measurement of finitekzin the modes due to FP ions supports the excitation of the Alfvén waves, which is the possible origin of FP-ICEs. It is also observed that the excited modes due to FP ions (3He and T ions) have different characteristics: driven by different NBs and having different parameter dependences. ICE due to T ions has no harmonics and the value of ω/Ωciis smaller than that due to3He. Both beam-driven ICEs and FP-ICEs are clearly observed and their spatial structures are obtained on JT-60U.
Deregulation of Maize C4 Photosynthetic Development in a Mesophyll Cell-Defective Mutant
Authors: Covshoff Sarah , Majeran Wojciech , Liu Peng , Kolkman Judith M. , van Wijk Klaas J. , Brutnell Thomas P.
Published: February 2008

During maize (Zea mays) C4 differentiation, mesophyll (M) and bundle sheath (BS) cells accumulate distinct sets of photosynthetic enzymes, with very low photosystem II (PSII) content in BS chloroplasts. Consequently, there is little linear electron transport in the BS and ATP is generated by cyclic electron flow. In contrast, M thylakoids are very similar to those of C3 plants and produce the ATP and NADPH that drive metabolic activities. Regulation of this differentiation process is poorly understood, but involves expression and coordination of nuclear and plastid genomes. Here, we identify a recessive allele of the maize high chlorophyll fluorescence (Hcf136) homolog that in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) functions as a PSII stability or assembly factor located in the thylakoid lumen. Proteome analysis of the thylakoids and electron microscopy reveal that Zmhcf136 lacks PSII complexes and grana thylakoids in M chloroplasts, consistent with the previously defined Arabidopsis function. Interestingly, hcf136 is also defective in processing the full-length psbB-psbT-psbH-petB-petD polycistron specifically in M chloroplasts. To determine whether the loss of PSII in M cells affects C4 differentiation, we performed cell-type-specific transcript analysis of hcf136 and wild-type seedlings. The results indicate that M and BS cells respond uniquely to the loss of PSII, with little overlap in gene expression changes between data sets. These results are discussed in the context of signals that may drive differential gene expression in C4 photosynthesis.
The cholecystokinin type A receptor g.179A>G polymorphism affects feeding rate
Authors: Houston R. D. , Rance K. A. , Sutcliffe E. , Archibald A. L. , Haley C. S.
Published: February 2008

A polymorphism within the 5′ untranslated region of the cholecystokinin type A receptor (CCKAR) gene has been shown to affect feed intake and growth in commercial pig lines. To further investigate the phenotype of animals carrying alternative alleles at this polymorphism, we genotyped animals from a distinct segregating commercial line and an experimental cross F2 population, both with electronically recorded feeding pattern data. The data indicate that the daily feed intake increasing effect of the DQ496228:g.179G allele is mediated through a faster rate of feed intake, without evidence for an effect on other feeding behaviour traits.
Effect of spatial pattern and microhabitat on pit construction and relocation inMyrmeleon hyalinus(Neuroptera: Myrmeleontidae) larvae
Authors: SCHARF INON , HOLLENDER YAEL , SUBACH AZIZ , OVADIA OFER
Published: February 2008

Abstract1. In two sets of enclosure experiments, we studied the spatial pattern, relocation rates, pit construction rates, and microhabitat preference ofMyrmeleon hyalinuslarvae.

2. We showed thatM. hyalinuslarvae actively prefer shady sites and often relocate to shady areas when exposed to the sun. This behaviour may constitute a life‐saving strategy in desert environments.

3. The initial spatial pattern in a cluster of antlion larvae did not affect the final pattern, relocation rate, or the pathway moved while relocating. We interpret this finding to mean that the spatial pattern ofM. hyalinuslarvae is mainly influenced by factors operating at large time‐scales, such as exploitation competition and physical‐microclimatological constraints, rather than those operating at shorter time‐scales, such as interference competition.

4. In contrast, the likelihood of pit construction was positively correlated with nearest neighbour distance, possibly as a result of interference competition.

5. Pit construction rates were constant throughout the experiment, while relocation rates decreased with time.

6. Contrary to previous studies, we found no correlation between body mass and spatial position inside the cluster, suggesting that these differences are the products of slower processes (e.g. exploitation and body condition).
Temperature and prey capture: opposite relationships in two predator taxa
Authors: KRUSE PETER DALGAS , TOFT SØREN , SUNDERLAND KEITH D.
Published: February 2008

Abstract1. All other things equal, predator capture rates are expected to depend on encounter rate with prey, prey escape capability (including prey defences), and on predator agility. Ectotherm predators and their prey both respond to increasing temperature by increased activity, i.e. predators increase their search area and prey may enhance their escape capability. This means that, as temperature changes, the ability of a predator to catch prey will decrease, increase, or remain unchanged depending on the relative effect of temperature on predator and prey. Their responses may further be differentially moulded by light conditions depending on whether the predator is diurnally or nocturnally active. It was hypothesised that flying Diptera are vulnerable to carabid beetles only at low temperatures and over the full temperature range for spiders because carabids, in contrast to spiders, are not built to catch swiftly moving prey.

2. The first experiment examined the spontaneous locomotor activity of the predators and of fruit flies at different temperatures (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 °C) and light conditions (light, dark). A second experiment examined the effect of temperature and light on the predation rate of two carabid beetles (Pterostichus versicolorandCalathus fuscipes) and two spiders (Clubiona phragmitisandPardosa prativaga) using fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) as prey.

3. All four predators and the fruit fly increased their locomotory activity at higher temperatures. Activity of the carabid beetles peaked at intermediate temperatures; spiders and fruit flies were most active at the highest temperatures. Predation rate of the spiders increased with temperature whereas the beetles caught flies only at low temperatures (5 and 10 °C).

4. Diurnal variation in temperature may bring different prey groups within the set of potential prey at different times of the day or at different seasons. The ability of many carabid beetles to forage at low temperatures may have nutritional benefits and increases the diversity of interactions in terrestrial food webs.
Fish assemblages of the northern Argentine coastal system: spatial patterns and their temporal variations
Authors: JAUREGUIZAR ANDRÉS J. , MENNI ROBERTO , LASTA CARLOS , GUERRERO RAÚL
Published: February 2008

The springtime spatial pattern of demersal fish assemblages in the northern Argentine coastal ecosystem (34°–41°S) and their relationships with environmental variables were investigated over 6 years (1981, 1983, 1994, 1995, 1998 and 1999). For each fish assemblage area for each year, we identified the most common species and those species that had the highest ability to discriminate it from adjacent assemblage areas. Within each area, species were considered as resident (common in all years) or facultative (contributing to less than 90% of similarity within any year). The analysis (detrended canonical correspondence analysis), conducted using species abundances (t nm−2) and environmental data, indicated that six fish assemblage areas are consistently distinguishable. The fish assemblage areas correspond to inner, central and middle regions of the Río de la Plata estuary, and inner, central and middle regions of the coastal shelf. Spatial differences in the composition among areas were primarily due to changes in species composition rather than changes in relative abundance, and were primarily related to water mass characteristics. Salinity in the estuary and temperature on the shelf were more relevant to the spatial structuring of the fish community in each environment. The assemblage areas showed a remarkable degree of temporal persistence in species composition and geographical location. The facultative species contributed more to the species composition temporal dynamics than resident species. El Niño (La Niña) condition, associated with increase (decrease) of the Río de la Plata freshwater discharge, produced a movement of the estuarine assemblage areas to the coastal shelf (upriver). Under normal freshwater discharge conditions, the boundaries of the fish assemblages were relatively more stable.
Fine specificity of natural killer T cells against GD3 ganglioside and identification of GM3 as an inhibitory natural killer T‐cell ligand
Authors: Park Jun‐Eui , Wu Dianna Y. , Prendes Maria , Lu Sharon X. , Ragupathi Govind , Schrantz Nicolas , Chapman Paul B.
Published: February 2008

GD3, a ganglioside expressed on melanoma, is the only tumour‐associated glycolipid described to date that can induce a CD1d‐restricted natural killer T (NKT)‐cell response. We analysed the fine specificity of GD3‐reactive NKT cells and discovered that immunization with GD3 induced two populations of GD3‐reactive NKT cells. One population was CD4+ CD8− and was specific for GD3; the other population was CD4− CD8− and cross‐reacted with GM3 in a CD1d‐restricted manner, but did not cross‐react with GM2, GD2, or lactosylceramide. This indicated that the T‐cell receptors reacting with GD3 recognize glucose‐galactose linked to at least one N‐acetyl‐neuraminic acid but will not accommodate a terminal N‐acetylgalactosamine. Immunization with GM2, GM3, GD2, or lactosylceramide did not induce an NKT‐cell response. Coimmunization of GM3‐loaded antigen‐presenting cells (APCs) with GD3‐loaded APCs suppressed the NKT‐cell response to GD3 in a CD1d‐restricted manner. This suppressive effect was specific for GM3 and was a local effect lasting 2–4 days. In vitro, GM3‐loaded APCs also suppressed the interleukin‐4 response, but not the interferon‐γ response, of NKT cells to α‐galactosylceramide. However, there was no effect on the T helper type 2 responses of conventional T cells. We found that this suppression was not mediated by soluble factors. We hypothesize that GM3 induces changes to the APC that lead to suppression of T helper type 2‐like NKT‐cell responses.
Special regulatory T‐cell review: suppressors regulated but unsuppressed1
Authors: Kapp Judith A.
Published: February 2008

The rise‐and‐fall and reincarnation of suppressor T cells is reviewed from the perspective of a participant in the field.
Special regulatory T cell review: The suppression problem!
Authors: Waldmann Herman
Published: February 2008

The concept of T‐cell mediated suppression evolved more than 30 years ago. At that time it spawned many claims that have not stood the test of time. The rediscovery of suppression phenomena and regulatory T cells over the past 15 years created schizophrenic responses amongst immunologists. Some claimed that the new proponents of suppression were, once again, bringing immunology into disrepute, whilst others have embraced the field with great enthusiasm and novel approaches to clarification. Without faithful repetition of the “old” experiments, it is difficult to establish what was right and what was wrong. Nevertheless, immunologists must now accept that a good number of the old claims were overstated, and reflected poor scientific discipline.

“I speak not to disprove what Brutus spoke, But here I am to speak what I do know”Shakespeare. Julius Caesar Act 3, Scene 2.
Special regulatory T‐cell review: regulatory T cells and the intestinal tract – patrolling the frontier
Authors: Izcue Ana , Powrie Fiona
Published: February 2008

Tolerance to self and harmless antigens is one of the central features of the immune system, and it is obtained through a combination of multiple mechanisms. Discriminating between pathogens and non‐pathogenic antigens is especially important in the intestine, which constitutes the main contact surface between the body and the outside environment. Recently, the role of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells (Treg) in the establishment and maintenance of tolerance has been the focus of numerous studies. In this review, we briefly discuss the historical background leading to the identification of Foxp3+ Treg and give an overview of their role in controlling systemic and mucosal immune responses.
Special regulatory T‐cell review: A rose by any other name: from suppressor T cells to Tregs, approbation to unbridled enthusiasm
Authors: Germain Ronald N.
Published: February 2008

In the early 1970s a spate of papers by research groups around the world provided evidence for a negative regulatory role of thymus‐derived lymphocytes (T cells). In 1971, Gershon and Kondo published a seminal paper in Immunology entitled ‘Infectious Immunological Tolerance’1 indicating that such negative regulation could be a dominant effect that prevented otherwise ‘helpful’ T cells from mediating their function. Over the next decade, suppressor T cells, as these negative regulatory cells became known, were intensively investigated and a complex set of interacting cells and soluble factors were described as mediators in this process of immune regulation. In the early 1980s, however, biochemical and molecular experiments raised questions about the interpretation of the earlier studies, and within a few years, the term ‘suppressor T cell’ had all but disappeared from prominence and research on this phenomenon was held in poor esteem. While this was happening, new studies appeared suggesting that a subset of T cells played a critical role in preventing autoimmunity. These T cells, eventually dubbed ‘regulatory T cells’, have become a major focus of modern cellular immunological investigation, with a predominance that perhaps eclipses even that seen in the earlier period of suppressor T cell ascendancy. This brief review summarizes the rise and fall of ‘suppressorology’ and the possibility that Tregs are a modern rediscovery of suppressor T cells made convincing by more robust models for their study and better reagents for their identification and analysis.
Special regulatory T cell review: The resurgence of the concept of contrasuppression in immunoregulation
Authors: Lehner Thomas
Published: February 2008

The original concept of contrasuppression (CS) is evident in many immunoregulatory mechanisms. Inhibition of suppressor activity – CS – may be critical in microbial infection and autoimmunity. The major cellular interactions involved in suppression are the CD25+ FoxP3+ CD4+ T regulatory cells, programmed death‐1 (PD‐1) : PD‐L1/L2 and cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4) : CD80/86 pathways. These cellular functions are affected by dendritic cells (DC) and a complex array of cytokines of which interleukin (IL)‐2, IL‐10, IL‐6 and transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) are especially significant. Inhibition of regulatory cells, suppressor pathways or cytokines, is consistent with CS and can be attributed to IL‐6, IL‐2, PD‐1 or PD‐L‐1 antibodies, blockade of CTLA‐4 : CD80/86 pathway, inhibition of CD40–CD40L pathways, and TGF‐β, IL‐10 antibodies. Contrasuppression may regulate innate immunity by Toll‐like receptor expressed not only in non‐cognate DC, monocytes, natural killer cells and γδ T cells but also in adaptive T cells. Furthermore, cross‐talk between innate and adaptive immunity may be facilitated by contrasuppressor activity.

‘‘What’s in a name?

That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.’’ From Romeo and Juliet (II, 47–8) W. Shakespeare
The capacity ofSalmonellato survive inside dendritic cells and prevent antigen presentation to T cells is host specific
Authors: Bueno Susan M. , González Pablo A. , Carreño Leandro J. , Tobar Jaime A. , Mora Guido C. , Pereda Cristian J. , Salazar‐Onfray Flavio , Kalergis Alexis M.
Published: February 2008

Infection withSalmonellaenterica serovar Typhimurium (S.Typhimurium) causes a severe and lethal systemic disease in mice, characterized by poor activation of the adaptive immune response againstSalmonella‐derived antigens. Recently, we and others have reported that this feature relies on the ability ofS. Typhimurium to survive within murine dendritic cells (DCs) and avoid the presentation of bacteria‐derived antigens to T cells. In contrast, here we show that infection of murine DCs with eitherS. Typhi orS. Enteritidis, two serovars adapted to different hosts, leads to an efficient T‐cell activation bothin vitroandin vivo. Accordingly,S. Typhi andS. Enteritidis failed to replicate within murine DCs and were quickly degraded, allowing T‐cell activation. In contrast, human DCs were found to be permissive for survival and proliferation ofS. Typhi, but not forS. Typhimurium orS. Enteritidis. Our data suggest thatSalmonellahost restriction is characterized by the ability of these bacteria to survive within DCs and avoid activation of the adaptive immune response in their specific hosts.
Prenatal Alcohol Exposure: Foetal Programming, the Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal Axis and Sex Differences in Outcome
Authors: Weinberg J. , Sliwowska J. H. , Lan N. , Hellemans K. G. C.
Published: February 2008

Prenatal exposure to alcohol has adverse effects on offspring neuroendocrine and behavioural functions. Alcohol readily crosses the placenta, thus directly affecting developing foetal endocrine organs. In addition, alcohol‐induced changes in maternal endocrine function can disrupt the normal hormonal interactions between the pregnant female and foetal systems, altering the normal hormone balance and, indirectly, affecting the development of foetal metabolic, physiological and endocrine functions. The present review focuses on the adverse effects of prenatal alcohol exposure on offspring neuroendocrine function, with particular emphasis on the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis, a key player in the stress response. The HPA axis is highly susceptible to programming during foetal and neonatal development. Here, we review data demonstrating that alcohol exposure in utero programmes the foetal HPA axis such that HPA tone is increased throughout life. Importantly, we show that, although alterations in HPA responsiveness and regulation are robust phenomena, occurring in both male and female offspring, sexually dimorphic effects of alcohol are frequently observed. We present updated findings on possible mechanisms underlying differential effects of alcohol on male and female offspring, with special emphasis on effects at different levels of the HPA axis, and on modulatory influences of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal hormones and serotonin. Finally, possible mechanisms underlying foetal programming of the HPA axis, and the long‐term implications of increased exposure to endogenous glucocorticoids for offspring vulnerability to illnesses or disorders later in life are discussed.
Why h2 does not always equal VA/VP?
Authors: WILSON A. J.
Published: February 2008

Over the last decade, there has been a rapid growth in the application of quantitative genetic techniques to evolutionary studies of natural populations. Whereas this work yields enormous insight into evolutionary processes in the wild, the use of modelling techniques and strategies adopted from animal breeders means that estimates of trait heritabilities (h2) are highly vulnerable to misinterpretation. Specifically, when estimated using animal models, h2 will not generally be comparable across studies and must be interpreted as being conditioned on any fixed effects included in the model. Failure to realize the model dependency of published h2 estimates will give a very misleading, and in most cases upwardly biased, impression of the potential for trait evolution.
A Branch‐inducing Phytoplasma in Euphorbia pulcherrima is Associated with Changes in Expression of Host Genes
Authors: Nicolaisen M. , Horvath D. P.
Published: February 2008

Phytoplasma infection causes a desirable branching phenotype in the ornamental plant Euphorbia pulcherrima by releasing apical dominance. Four E. pulcherrima genes specifically regulated during phytoplasma infection were identified using a combination of differential display of cDNA‐polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products and microarray analysis. According to BLAST searches the possible functions of identified genes included a histidine‐containing phosphotransmitter, an α‐expansin, a protein with similarity to the gibberellin‐regulated GAST‐1 and a protein with similarity to an Arabidopsis thaliana protein with unknown function.
Making and Breaking Family Life: Adoption, the State, and Human Rights
Authors: Harris‐Short Sonia
Published: February 2008

This article explores the extent to which the state's duties and responsibilities in the context of adoption are framed and reinforced by a rights‐based discourse. It argues that the human rights paradigm plays an invaluable role in the pre‐adoption process by identifying and imposing ever more exacting obligations on the state ‐ obligations which are currently not being fully met by the Adoption and Children Act 2002. The application of a rights‐based discourse to the post‐adoption context proves, however, to be considerably more problematic. Indeed, it is argued that rather than extend and strengthen the state's responsibilities towards the child and the adopted family, liberal rights‐based doctrine tends towards a more traditional model of adoption in which a minimalist state and the privacy, autonomy, and self‐sufficiency of the new adoptive family are further entrenched. It is thus concluded that a human rights analysis provides no secure basis for challenging the Adoption and Children Act's rather limited provisions on post‐adoption support.