bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological and genetic associations across aHeliconiushybrid zone
Authors: BLUM M. J.
Published: September 2010

AbstractDifferences in habitat use can bridge early and late stages of speciation by initiating assortative mating.Heliconiuscolour pattern races might select habitats over which each pattern confers a relative fitness advantage because signal efficacy of wing patterns can vary by environment. Thus habitat preferences could serve to promote the evolution of mimetic colour patterns for mate choice. Here I compare colour pattern genotype and phenotype frequencies to environmental variation across theH. erato hydara × H. erato eratohybrid zone in French Guiana to determine whether races exhibit habitat preferences. I found that genotype and phenotype frequencies correspond to differences in land cover moreso than to other environmental factors. Temporal shifts in colour pattern genotypes, phenotypes and land cover also were associated at individual sample sites, which further suggests thatH. eratoraces differ in habitat use and that habitat preferences may promote speciation amongHeliconiusbutterflies.
Do vertically transmitted symbionts co‐existing in a single host compete or cooperate? A modelling approach
Authors: VAUTRIN E. , GENIEYS S. , CHARLES S. , VAVRE F.
Published: September 2010

Abstract When several symbionts infect simultaneously the same host (multiple infections), the interactions between them affect the dynamics of the symbiotic population. Despite their widespread occurrence, associations with multiple vertically transmitted symbionts have attracted little attention. Vertical transmission tends to homogenize the symbiotic population because of the bottleneck that occurs at transmission. However, fitness advantages conferred on the host by the different symbionts or the induction of reproductive manipulations can make it possible for multiple infections to persist. We used a matrix population model to understand the kind of interactions that can emerge between vertically transmitted symbionts in established multiple infections. Selection acts only to maximize the production of multiply‐infected offspring. For a wide range of parameters, this condition allows cooperation between symbionts to be selected for, through their co‐transmission, even when it generates additional costs for female fecundity, a reduction in individual transmission, or affects the dependence upon other symbionts.
Strategies for Technological Innovation with Learning and Adaptation Costs
Authors: Cyert Richard M. , Kumar Praveen
Published: September 2010

This paper attacks the problem of developing strategies for a firm to deal with technological change. We show that the product market strategies of the firm—including pricing, product positioning, and rent preemption strategies—can play a role in the efficient search for technology‐related information when information search is costly and there are adaptation costs due to the presence of agency. We utilize a dynamic model of spatial competition with uncertain technological innovations in which firms can learn from each other about technological developments. Private information and agency conflicts are shown to increase the effective information search costs of incumbents, who then use interfirm learning to their advantage in equilibrium. This viewpoint also allows us to see the role of mergers and acquisitions, subsidiary formation, and internal R&D labs in a new light. The more general point is that organizational structures and, in particular, the differential distribution of information within the organization impose constraints on the information‐search and adaptation strategies of the firm, and the formulation of product‐market and R&D strategies serves to relax these constraints.
Who Adopts Total Quality Management (TQM): Theory and An Empirical Test
Authors: Barron John M. , Gjerde Kathy Paulson
Published: September 2010

The recent emergence of total quality management (TQM) in the U.S. has spawned a great deal of interest in management circles as well as in the mass media. However, despite the growing number of firms that have adopted this management technique, few formal tests exist concerning the pattern of adoption as well as the changes that accompany the adoption of TQM. This paper contrasts models of production for TQM and non‐TQM firms in order to explore reasons why some firms but not others have adopted the TQM approach to quality improvement. Predictions arising from such a comparison are tested using a unique data set that combines data on firms from three different sources. Our findings tend to support the proposed theory of systematic differences between firms that find it advantageous to adopt TQM and firms that do not. We also find evidence that firms adopting TQM experience greater growth in sales, employment, and capital stock.
Brand Capital and Entry Order
Authors: Thomas Louis A.
Published: September 2010

This paper develops the hypothesis that firms possess a stock of well‐established brands, a stock termed brand capital. The firm with the greatest capital is able to introduce new products in response to new information about consumer tastes before rivals. The results using data from the ready‐to‐eat cereal industry not only support this hypothesis, but also distinguish brand capital from other sources of firm heterogeneity.
Takeover Waves
Authors: Fauli‐Oller Ramon
Published: September 2010

Horizontal takeovers often occur in waves. A sequence of takeovers is obtained in a Cournot setting with cost asymmetries. They are motivated by two different reasons: (1) a low realization of demand increases the profitability of takeovers; (2) takeovers raise the profitability of future takeovers. A possible explanation of merger races is also obtained by showing that firms buying in the first place pay a lower price for their targets.
External Liberalization and Foreign Presence: Cross‐Industry Evidence From Poland and Hungary
Authors: Kennedy Robert E.
Published: September 2010

External liberalization—the relaxation of restrictions on cross‐border trade and inbound direct investment—has played an important role in the programs of economic transition in central Europe. While liberalization is widely heralded, there has been little empirical analysis of the links between liberalization and industry structure. This analysis examines changes in foreign presence following external liberalization in Poland and Hungary. I show that the presence of proprietary and intangible assets explains much of the cross‐industry variation in patterns of foreign presence and, for a given level of foreign presence, whether this will occur via trade or inbound direct investment.
Monoterpene emissions from ornamental trees in urban areas: a case study of Barcelona, Spain
Authors: Noe S. M. , Peñuelas J. , Niinemets Ü.
Published: September 2010

Research on biogenic volatile organic compound (BVOC) emissions has mainly focused on native species in natural ecosystems. However, much of the ozone and aerosol formation occurs in city atmospheres due to BVOC emissions by local urban vegetation. Plant composition of urban habitats is often dominated by non‐native ornamental plant species, for which only limited data on BVOC emissions are available. To gain insight into the influence of ornamental vegetation on the urban atmospheric reactivity in Barcelona, Spain, we studied volatile isoprenoid emissions in 11 widespread ornamental tree species (three conifers and nine angiosperms). We found significant monoterpene emissions in all studied species, with normalized emission potentials (T = 30 °C, photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) = 1000 μmol·m−2·s−1) ranging between 0.2 to 110 μg·g−1 (dry weight) h−1. Depending on species, the emissions were dominated by α‐ and β‐pinene, myrcene, α‐ and β‐phellandrene, carene, limonene and eucalyptol. These data demonstrate that ornamental plants may significantly contribute to the BVOC load in urban atmospheres and also underscore the importance of broadleaf angiosperms as significant monoterpene emitters.
Changes in Whistle Structure of Two Dolphin Species During Interspecific Associations
Authors: May‐Collado Laura J.
Published: September 2010

Dolphin communicative signals show great plasticity. Dolphins modify signal structure to cope with their environment, in response to stress, and in some species to mimic group members. Hence, whistle structure variations may offer insights to interspecific associations among dolphin species, which although temporal and opportunistic are common. In this study, I test the hypothesis that interspecific interactions influence dolphin whistle structure, particularly during social events. The study took place in the Southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, where interspecific associations of the distantly related Guyana and Bottlenose dolphins occur on daily basis. The results indicate that interspecific groups emit whistles that show intermediate whistle structure compared to whistles emitted in intraspecific groups. This pattern is seen during social interactions between species, but not when interspecific groups are traveling. Social events in interspecific groups were of antagonistic nature, where Bottlenose dolphins isolated and harassed one or two Guyana dolphins. Contour data suggest that the most vocal species during these encounters was the Guyana dolphin. Therefore, the observed modifications in whistles structure likely reflect a stress response by the Guyana dolphins. Another alternative explanation includes signal convergence between interacting species. However, to understand the nature of these potential modifications, future studies should combine acoustic tags and directional recording systems to follow the vocalizing animals. Despite the shortcomings of this study, it provides some of the first insights into dolphin interspecific communication, providing evidence of overall signal change during interspecific interactions.
Suppressing Weeds in Direct‐seeded Lowland Rice: Effects of Methods and Rates of Seeding
Authors: Phuong L. T. , Denich M. , Vlek P. L. G. , Balasubramanian V.
Published: September 2010

High weed infestation is a major constraint to widespread adoption of direct seeding of rice (Oryza sativaL.) The experiments were conducted in 1998 wet and 1999 dry seasons in the Philippines to examine the effects of seeding methods and rates on suppressing weeds in direct‐seeded lowland rice. Treatments consisted of four seeding methods: conventional and modified broadcast seeding, drill seeding with east–west and north–south row orientations; three seeding rates: 40, 80 and 160 kg seed ha−1as well as two weed control levels: weed control with herbicide and no weed control. Among the seeding methods drill seeding with east–west row orientation had the lowest rice grain yield loss caused by weeds (38 % in the wet and 20 % in the dry season), whereas the highest losses because of weeds were observed with conventional broadcast seeding (59 % in the wet and 27 % in the dry season). Seeding rate was inversely correlated to weed interference. Severe rice yield reduction (71 %) caused by weeds was found at a seeding rate of 40 kg seed ha−1in the wet season. Using seeding rates of 80 and 160 kg seed ha−1, respectively, lowered yield loss to 47 and 26 % in the wet season, 32 and 18 % in the dry season. Therefore suitable method and/or rate of seeding can significantly suppress weeds in direct‐seeded lowland rice.
Exploitable genetic variation can be changed under environmental and genetic stress. Consequences for livestock breeding — a review
Authors: Kräußlich H.
Published: September 2010

Livestock breeding is exploitation of genetic variation in herdbook populations. Results of long term selection (domestication) experiments led to the assumption that some genes are normally silent and can be activated under genetic and environmental stress. Rutherford and Lindquist (Nature 336: 336–342, 1998) provided the first evidence of a molecular mechanism which can activate silent genes. This article discusses this field of research with respect to the livestock breeding.
Comparison of (co)variance component estimates in control populations of red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum) using restricted maximum likelihood and Gibbs sampling
Authors: Lin E.‐C. , Berger P. J.
Published: September 2010

Mixed model (co)variance component estimates by REML and Gibbs sampling for two traits were compared for base populations and control lines of Red Flour Beetle (Tribolium castaneum). Two base populations (1296 records in the first replication, 1292 in the second) were sampled from laboratory stock. Control lines were derived from corresponding base populations with random selection and mating for 16 generations. The REML estimate of each (co)variance component for both pupa weight and family size was compared with the mean and 95% central interval of the particular (co)variance estimated by Gibbs sampling with three different weights on the given priors: ‘flat’, smallest, and 3.7% degrees of belief. Results from Gibbs sampling showed that flat priors gave a wider and more skewed marginal posterior distribution than the other two weights on priors for all parameters. In contrast, the 3.7% degree of belief on priors provided reasonably narrow and symmetric marginal posterior distributions. Estimation by REML does not have the flexibility of changing the weight on prior information as does the Bayesian analysis implemented by Gibbs sampling. In general, the 95% central intervals from the three different weights on priors in the base populations were similar to those in control lines. Most REML estimates in base populations differed from REML estimates in control lines. Insufficient information from the data, and confounding of random effects contributed to the variability of REML estimates in base populations. Evidence is presented showing that some (co)variance components were estimated with less precision than others. Results also support the hypothesis that REML estimates were equivalent to the joint mode of posterior distribution obtained from a Bayesian analysis with flat priors, but only when there was sufficient information from data, and no confounding among random effects.
Comparison of Greek breeds of horses using RAPD markers
Authors: Apostolidis A. P. , Mamuris Z. , Karkavelia E. , Alifakiotis T.
Published: September 2010

To assess genetic markers able to distinguish between five Greek breeds of horses, the random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) technique was used. A total of 40 primers were initially screened in all breeds to identify primers that consistently revealed well‐amplified, polymorphic bands. Despite the variability that was found within breeds, no specific RAPD marker for the discrimination of the breeds was detected. This is probably due to the extensive cross‐breeding that has taken place over the years, resulting in a mixing of breeds. The high phenotypic divergence of the pony of Skyros from all the other Greek breeds of horses could be explained in terms of micro‐evolutionary processes, such as natural selection owing to differential fitness. In addition, to determine the genetic affinities between breeds, all samples were screened with five primers. These primers produced a total of 93 bands, 51 of which were polymorphic. Data analysis for genetic polymorphism revealed a degree of divergence between breeds. According to the discriminant analysis (DA) classification, 100% of the individuals examined in this study could be classified correctly into their breeds. The results of this study show that RAPDs could be a powerful tool for the classification testing of individual horses, as well as for the determination of the genetic variation found among breeds, which is important for a proper management policy designed to protect this species.
Estimation of genome‐wide haplotype effects in half‐sib designs
Authors: Kolbehdari D. , Schaeffer L.R. , Robinson J.A.B.
Published: September 2010

Genome‐wide estimated breeding values can be computed from the simultaneous estimates of the effects of small intervals of DNA throughout the genome on a trait or traits of interest. Small intervals or segments of DNA can be created by the use of thousands of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) available in panels of 10, 25 and 50 thousand SNP. A simulation study was conducted to compare factors that could influence the accuracy of genome‐wide selection. Factors studied were the heritability of the trait, dispersion of quantitative trait loci (QTL) across the genome and size of the QTL effects. A 100‐cM genome was assumed with 100 equally spaced SNP markers and 10 QTL. A granddaughter design was constructed with 20 sires and 100 sons per sire. Population‐wide linkage disequilibrium was assumed to be sufficient after 25 generations of random mating starting with 30 sires and 400 dams. Best linear unbiased prediction was used to simultaneously estimate the effects of 99 SNP intervals, based on determining the SNP haplotype of each son inherited from the sire. Indicator variables were used in the model to indicate haplotype transmission. A genome‐wide estimated breeding value was calculated as the sum of the appropriate haplotype interval estimates for each son. Correlations between estimated and true breeding values ranged from 0.60 to 0.79. Situations with unequally sized QTL effects and randomly dispersed QTL gave higher correlations. QTL positions could be estimated to within 2 cM or less.
Platelet Aggregation and Haemostatic Response in Dogs Naturally Co‐infected by Leishmania infantum and Ehrlichia canis
Authors: Cortese L. , Pelagalli A. , Piantedosi D. , Mastellone V. , Manco A. , Lombardi P. , Ciaramella P. , Avallone L.
Published: September 2010

Haemostatic alterations in dogs naturally infected by ehrlichiosis and/or leishmaniasis were studied. Platelet count, ADP and collagen‐induced platelet aggregation, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and plasma fibrinogen concentration were measured. An evident reduction of platelet aggregation response was shown for Leishmania–Ehrlichia co‐infected dogs where platelet aggregation was lower in comparison with control and leishmaniotic dogs (ADP and collagen, P ≤ 0.01) and ehrlichiotic dogs (ADP 10 and 7.5 μm, P ≤ 0.05). Moreover, a significant increase in APTT as well as a reduction of the albumin/globulin rate (A/G) for leishmaniotic and co‐infected dogs versus control and ehrlichiotic dogs was detected. The hypothesis of a synergism between leishmaniosis and ehrlichiosis in altering platelet function by different pathways is discussed.
Haemorrhagic Bowel Syndrome in Dairy Cattle: Possible Role of Clostridium perfringens Type A in the Disease Complex
Authors: Ceci L. , Paradies P. , Sasanelli M. , De Caprariis D. , Guarda F. , Capucchio M.T. , Carelli G.
Published: September 2010

A survey based on clinical, pathological and microbiological investigations was performed on 11 Brown Swiss cattle affected with depression, anorexia, agalaxia, ruminal hypomotility, abdominal pain and melaena. In eight animals, macroscopical lesions consisted in haemorrhagic enteritis in the small intestine. Seven of eight isolates from tissue samples were identified as Clostridum perfringens type A, and four were identified as C. perfringens type A with the β2 toxin gene. Based on these observations, animals were considered affected with haemorrhagic bowel syndrome.
Sex Steroids Level in Blood Plasma and Ovarian Follicles of the Chimeric Chicken
Authors: Sechman A. , ŁAkota P. , Wojtysiak D. , Hrabia A. , Mika M. , Lisowski M. , Czekalski P. , Rza˛sa J. , Kapkowska E. , Bednarczyk M.
Published: September 2010

The study was performed to determine the hormonal status of mature germline chimeras obtained by blastodermal cell transfer from chicken embryos of a donor breed [Green‐legged Partridgelike breed (GP) × Araucana (AR)] to those of a recipient breed [White Leghorn (WL)] being at the same stage of embryonic development. The egg‐laying chimeras and WL hens (control) of the same age were used in the experiment. At first, blood samples were taken from each bird at 0.5, 5, 12.5 and 18.5 h following oviposition. Subsequently, the chimeras and the WL hens were decapitated 1–2 h after ovulation. A stroma and the following follicles were isolated from the ovary: white normal (1–4, 4–6 and 6–8 mm), white atretic and yellow preovulatory follicles (F4–F1). Sex hormones, progesterone (P4), testosterone (T) and oestradiol (E2) in blood plasma and ovarian follicles were determined radioimmunologically. The activity of the 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β‐HSD) in the granulosa and theca layers of the follicles was analysed histochemically. In chimeric chickens, a higher level of T in blood plasma during the ovulatory cycle was noticed. However, in the stroma, white prehierarchical and medium‐size preovulatory ovarian follicles the level of T was significantly lower. With respect to E2, its elevated levels were found both in blood and in the ovarian follicles. There were no significant differences in P4 concentrations in blood plasma while in ovarian follicles a higher level was observed only in white 6–8 mm follicles. 3β‐HSD activity in granulosa and theca layers of the ovarian follicles in chimeras was not different from that in the WL hens. In conclusion, the results obtained indicate that germline chimeras exhibit significant alterations in sex hormone levels in the ovary and blood plasma, which in turn may affect their reproductive abilities.
Cyanide Poisoning Deaths in Dogs
Authors: Oruc H. H. , Yilmaz R. , Bagdas D. , Ozyigit M. O.
Published: September 2010

In 2005, the deaths of three dogs were reported in Erdek, Turkey. Examining appropriate historical and clinical signs, postmortem findings and the discovery of cyanide in their stomachs and intestinal contents and livers supported a diagnosis of cyanide poisoning.
Succession and seasonal onset of colonization in subtidal hard‐bottom communities off northern Chile
Authors: Pacheco Aldo S. , Laudien Jürgen , Thiel Martin , Oliva Marcelo , Heilmayer Olaf
Published: September 2010

Although there is extensive information concerning the colonization sequences of benthic communities, little is known about the successional development of subtidal hard‐bottom habitats in highly productive coastal upwelling areas. In these systems, succession is predicted to be fast due to high growth rate of the later dominant colonizers. Using artificial hard substrata a field experiment was conducted in a rocky subtidal area off Northern Chile (Humboldt Current System) and monitored at 3‐month intervals to test the following hypotheses: (i) epibenthic succession may proceed through consecutive replacement of species, (ii) there is a fast convergence rate towards natural communities, and (iii) different seasonal starting points for the colonization will produce different community structure over a 1‐year period of exposure. Panels were installed on a vertical wall at 17 m water depth. Three replicate panels were sampled every 3 months over a period of 27 months. As a reference, six haphazardly selected plots from the surrounding natural community were surveyed at each sampling date. To evaluate how seasonally varying substratum availability affects community development, further panels were exposed for a 12‐month period, starting in four different seasons (n = 3 replicates per season). Community succession was slow and occurred through progressive changes, between early encrusting red corallines, middle Balanus flosculus and late Lagenicella variabilis. After 27 months, the community composition, but not its structure, was similar between experimental and reference communities on surrounding rocky bottoms. Seasonality had no effects and after 1 year of exposure the experimental communities converged towards a common structure. This study indicates that succession of subtidal epibenthic communities follows a slow and predictable pattern with a dominant late colonial species. In addition, aseasonal variability might be more relevant during colonization and succession in this upwelling ecosystem.
Polymorphism of waxy proteins in Spanish durum wheats
Authors: Nieto‐Taladriz M. T. , Rodríguez‐Quuano M. , Carrillo J. M.
Published: September 2010

A collection of 547 durum wheats (103 cultivars and 444 landraces) from Spain was analysed for waxy protein composition. The electrophoretic patterns showed low polymorphism. At theWx‐A1locus, 99.8% of the wheats had theWx‐Alaallele and only one had the nullWx‐Alballele. TheWx‐Bllocus was more polymorphic and four different alleles were detected:Wx‐Bla(41.3%),Wx‐Blc(42.6%), a new allele, not detected before in bread wheat and namedWx‐Blf(16.0%), and the nullWx‐Blballele, found for the first time in one durum wheat. Eleven durum wheats with different allelic composition at theWx‐lloci were analysed for amylose content. Wheats with theWx‐Blaallele had a lower amylose content than those withWx‐BlcorWx‐Blf.The lowest amylase content was found in the only durum wheat having the nullWx‐Blballele.
Effects of N fertilization on yield for low‐input production in Spanish wheat landraces (Triticum turgidum L. and Triticum monococcum L.)
Authors: Ruiz M. , Aguiriano E. , Carrillo J. M.
Published: September 2010

A core subset of Spanish durum wheat landraces was evaluated at two nitrogen levels (80 and 220 kg/ha) to identify landrace genotypes adapted to low N production. Yield differences were statistically significant between N levels and among genotypes at both levels. Fifty‐one per cent of the landraces yielded significantly more at low than at high N (low‐N varieties) while 26% had a positive (high‐N varieties) and 23% an indifferent (indifferent‐N varieties) response to N fertilizer. No significant agromorphological differences were found among low and high‐N varieties at low N level that conferred some advantage to low‐N varieties. In contrast, high‐N varieties possessed longer grain‐filling period under high N level. Phenological characters showed an important influence on yield and on the performance of the varieties within each subgroup. The traits affecting grain yield most positively, mainly the low‐N varieties, were long filling period and earliness. Five entries were selected for prebreeding to low N adaptation.
Damage assessment for selection of resistance to the spotted stalk borer and genetic correlations for resistance and yield components in sugarcane
Authors: Nibouche S. , Tibère R.
Published: September 2010

We conducted an assessment of the stalk damage of the spotted borer, Chilo sacchariphagus (Bojer), on 65 cultivars and elite clones under natural infestation conditions in Réunion Island, with the objectives (i) of comparing seven damage measures on the basis of their quantitative genetic parameters and (ii) of studying the relationships between borer resistance and sugarcane yield components. The heritabilities of the damage measures related to counts of borer exit holes were low, whereas the heritabilities of the damage measures related to bored stalks or internodes were high and similar amongst them. The percentage of bored stalks exhibited high phenotypic and genotypic correlations with the other damage measures, and appeared as the best cost effective damage measure. Genetic correlations revealed a negative relationship between resistance to borer and cane yield, due to a relationship of stalk damage with stalk length and (in a lesser extent) with stalk number. No significant genetic relationship between resistance and sugar content parameters was observed.
Tagging quantitative trait loci for dormancy, tuber shape, regularity of tuber shape, eye depth and flesh colour in diploid potato originated from six Solanum species
Authors: ŚLiwka J. , Wasilewicz‐Flis I. , Jakuczun H. , Gebhardt C.
Published: September 2010

Potato breeding aims at breeding diversified cultivars not only suitable for different purposes, but also resistant to diseases, such as late blight caused by Phytophthora infestans, which is a major constraint in potato production. Resistance to P. infestans has been previously introduced into the diploid hybrid population 98‐21 from Solanum verrucosum and Solanum microdontum. In the present study, we assessed the segregation of tuber dormancy, tuber shape, regularity of tuber shape, eye depth and flesh colour in this population. Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs) affecting these important quality traits were tagged using the genetic map developed for this population to locate QTLs for late blight resistance. The most prominent QTL for dormancy was detected on chromosome II and explained 7.1% of the variance. The most important QTLs for tuber eye depth, flesh colour, shape and shape regularity were identified on chromosomes X (R2 = 14.7%), IV (R2 = 5.8%), II (R2 = 8.0%) and III (R2 = 10.4%) respectively. All traits were also affected by minor QTLs. The obtained results improve our understanding of the inheritance of traits relevant for variety development in potato.
The origin of the self‐compatible almond ‘Supernova’
Authors: Marchese A. , Bošković R. I. , Martínez‐García P. J. , Tobutt K. R.
Published: September 2010

The almond cultivar ‘Supernova’ is reported in the literature as a late‐flowering self‐compatible mutant, obtained by the irradiation of the early‐flowering self‐incompatible cultivar ‘Fascionello’. Our work to investigate the molecular basis of this form of self‐compatibility has called into question the origin of ‘Supernova’. Test selfing was performed both on ‘Supernova’ and on the accession of ‘Fascionello’ from which it was derived –‘Fascionello‐Rome’. Both proved self‐compatible. Amplification of S‐RNase alleles, using consensus primers from the signal peptide region to the second conserved region of the S‐RNase gene and primers specific for allele Sf, confirmed ‘Supernova’ and ‘Fascionello‐Rome’ indeed have the same (in)compatibility genotype S1Sf as the self‐compatible cultivar ‘Tuono’. Nine microsatellite markers were used to fingerprint the relevant accessions; ‘Supernova’ and ‘Fascionello‐Rome’ were undistinguishable from ‘Tuono’. Two Sicilian accessions, ‘Fascionello’ and ‘Falso Fascionello’, lacked Sf and differed at the SSR level, indicating no close relationship with ‘Supernova’. Therefore we concluded that ‘Fascionello‐Rome’ is actually the same as ‘Tuono’ and that ‘Supernova’ originates from ‘Tuono’ from which it derives its self‐compatibility.
Study on the Oestrous Synchronization in Gilts by Using Progestin Altrenogest and hCG: Its Effect on the Follicular Development, Ovulation Time and Subsequent Reproductive Performance
Authors: Kaeoket K
Published: September 2010

Contents

The aim of this study was to further investigate the effect of using progestin altrenogest and hCG to synchronize the oestrous cycle and its effect on follicular development, ovulation time and subsequent reproductive performance. Thirty crossbred gilts were divided into three groups. Group A (control) received a 5 ml of normal saline for 18 consecutive days by individually top‐dressing. Groups B and C gilts received 20 mg (5 ml) of progestin altrenogest for 18 consecutive days by individually top‐dressing. On day 3 (72 h) after withdrawal of progestin altrenogest, Group C gilts received hCG (500 IU, im). The follicular development and ovulation time were examined by transabdominal ultrasonography. Subsequent reproductive performances, i.e. number of total born per litter (NTB), number of live born per litter (NBA), number of stillbirth per litter (NSB), average piglet birth weight (ABW), lactation length (LL) and weaning to oestrous interval (WOI), were recorded. None of the gilts in Group A showed oestrus within 10 days after withdrawal of normal saline. Groups B (eight of 10) and C gilts (four of 10) came into oestrus at 5.6 ± 0.5 and 6.5 ± 0.6 days after withdrawal of progestin altrenogest, respectively. The ovulation time of Groups B and C gilts took placed at 25.0 ± 4.7 and 25.0 ± 5.0 h after standing oestrus, respectively. The pre‐ovulatory follicular size (diameter) of Groups B and C gilts was 8.0 ± 2.0 and 11.0 ± 3.0 mm, respectively. A tendency of larger litter size (NTB) in Group B gilts was found when compared with Group A gilts. To conclude, using progestin altrenogest alone can be used to synchronize the oestrous cycle in gilts without unenthusiastic effect on the follicular development, ovulation time and subsequent reproductive performances. However, treatment of gilts with hCG at day 3 (72 h) after withdrawal of altrenogest had unenthusiastic effect on oestrus synchronization.
Sperm Interactions from Insemination to Fertilization
Authors: Rath D , Schuberth HJ , Coy P , Taylor U
Published: September 2010

Contents

The task of spermatozoa is to transport its DNA‐load as efficiently and safely as possible from the male organism to the female. Before it reaches its destination, it has to pass almost through the entire female reproductive tract, a potentially hostile environment. During passage, it is confronted by a sophisticated system that provides sperm storage sides but also possibly facilitates selection. The present review attempts to summarize the current knowledge of sperm interactions during that journey. A better understanding of the highly complex processes taking place between insemination and fertilization will be necessary to improve the efficiency of conventional reproductive techniques as well as for enabling the development and establishment of new ones.
The Assembly of a Zona Pellucida Binding Protein Complex in Sperm
Authors: Gadella BM
Published: September 2010

Contents

The surface of the sperm cell, after its production in the testis is heterogeneous and subjected to continuous surface remodelling during its voyage through the male and female genital tracts to reach the oocyte. This remodelling will result in a competent sperm that is suitably equipped to bind to the zona pellucida and to follow the processes required for fertilization. During in vitro fertilization (IVF) studies, some aspects of these surface remodelling are mimicked and optimized to achieve good fertilization rates in the reproductive clinic. Although, the IVF experiments with sperm provided knowledge about how sperm motility activation is achieved and gave insights into the extensive sperm surface remodelling that is needed to acquire the high zona binding affinity, it is far from clear how relevant these processes are, for the competent sperm that actually fertilizes the oocyte under in vivo conditions. Moreover, sperm surface remodelling, especially by the female genital tract, is only poorly understood. The aim of this study was to combine the knowledge we have about the sperm surface from in vitro and biochemical approaches on one hand and, on the other hand, to attempt to overview the molecular mechanisms involved in sperm surface remodelling at different places within the male and female genital tract. The relevance for this to predict and identify the proteins involved in sperm zona binding in vivo is discussed.
Fertility of Sows Fedad libitumwith a High Fibre Diet During Pregnancy
Authors: Peltoniemi OAT , Tast A , Heinonen M , Oravainen J , Munsterhjelm C , Hälli O , Oliviero C , Hämeenoja P , Virolainen JV
Published: September 2010

Contents

The effect ofad libitum(ADLIB) feeding strategy on the fertility of the group housed sow was studied in a prospective field trial during 1.5 years. All study animals farrowed under standard farrowing circumstances in crates, and they were provided with anad libitumfeeding throughout the 30‐day lactation. After weaning, animals were randomly allocated to one of the two dry sow feeding strategies (AD LIB or CONT). After oestrus detection in groups, they were artificially inseminated and moved into pregnancy pens with partially slatted floor, in groups of 40 sows each. The ADLIB sows (n = 447) were loose housed and provided withad libitumaccess to 7.7 MJ/kg feed high in fibre from two feeders per group. The control sows (n = 479; CONT) were also loose housed and given a standard dry sow feed in feeding stalls once a day (2.5 kg/day. The energy content of the feed was 9.3 MJ/kg NE). The feeding strategy (ADLIB vs CONT) had no effect on pregnancy rate (85.8 vs 90.9, p > 0.05), weaning to oestrus interval (7.7 vs 7.3 days, p > 0.05), piglets born alive (11.5 ± 3.5 vs 11.6 ± 3.3, p > 0.05), stillborn piglets (1.2 ± 1.8 vs 0.9 ± 1.5, p > 0.05) nor on progesterone concentration (p > 0.05). CONT sows weaned more piglets (9.7 ± 2.2 vs 9.4 ± 2.0, p < 0.01), whereas the piglets of AD LIB sows were heavier at weaning (8.8 ± 0.9 vs 8.0 ± 1.3 kg, p < 0.05). In conclusion,ad libitumfeeding with a high in fibre diet during pregnancy did not affect the reproductive performance.
Kenyan nurses' involvement in managing hospitalized diabetic patients
Authors: Mutea Naomi K , Baker Constance M
Published: September 2010

Diabetes is a global public health concern because the incidence, prevalence and financial burden are rapidly increasing. Clinical nursing research in developing countries is rare. This study examines nurses' involvement in the management of diabetic patients in a western Kenya Hospital. A descriptive exploratory design is used, data were collected in structured interviews with 15 registered nurses using an investigator‐designed instrument. Content analysis produced eight categories of nurses' involvement in managing hospitalized diabetic patients. Facilitators and barriers to managing diabetic care are presented from the perspective of the nurse, hospital, patient, family and community. Workforce redesign is needed to cope with nursing shortages.
Stakeholder perceptions of specialist Inflammatory Bowel Disease nurses' role and personal attributes
Authors: Belling Ruth , Woods Leslie , McLaren Susan
Published: September 2010

The number of advanced nursing roles dedicated to the care and management of patients with chronic, long‐term Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) has increased, particularly in the UK. However, studies reporting effectiveness and scope of practice remain extremely limited. This paper focuses on specialist or advanced nursing practice from the perception of patients and their families living with IBD. One hundred and thirty‐one qualitative descriptions of the perceived difference made by specialist nurses to the care of IBD patients were received from members of the UK National Association for Crohn's Disease and Colitis following invited nominations in support of its Nursing Award. These qualitative descriptions were analysed thematically. Two main categories of themes emerged: role behaviours/skills and personal qualities/attributes. Twenty‐four role behaviours and 12 personal attributes were identified. In contrast with literature on advanced nursing roles which stresses technical competence, findings from this study suggest that patients perceive support, advice, caring, empathy and disease management to be of particular importance to their care.
The role of burnout among Hungarian nurses
Authors: Palfi Ilona , Nemeth Katalin , Kerekes Zsuzsanna , Kallai Janos , Betlehem Jozsef
Published: September 2010

This study was aimed to explore the occurrence of burnout among nurses in health and social institutions in Baranya County of Hungary, to reveal the connections between burnout and sociodemographic factors, and to learn its extent in different types of care. The survey was a one‐off, representative sample with 805 questionnaires processed. The questionnaire was an internationally used and accepted standard paper designed for assessing burnout syndrome. The sample was given by nurses working in health and social care institutions in 2001. Intensive care nurses have the highest scores for burnout, followed by nurses in long‐term care. Active ward nurses show the lowest scores for burnout. Burnout is twice as high among intensive care nurses (10.7%) than among long‐term care nurses (3.6%), and the least is among active ward nurses (0.6%). Leaving one's job is closely connected with burnout (66%). Prevention could save health‐care workers from burnout and leaving the job independently from nurses' sociodemographic factors.
Origins of hydrocarbons in the Sagara oil field, central Japan
Authors: Toki Tomohiro , Gamo Toshitaka , Tsunogai Urumu
Published: September 2010

Abstract  We collected free‐gas and in situ fluid samples up to a depth of 200.6 m from the Sagara oil field, central Japan (34°44′N, 138°15′E), during the Sagara Drilling Program (SDP) and measured the concentrations and stable carbon isotopic compositions of CH4 and C2H6 in the samples. A combination of the CH4/C2H6 ratios with the carbon isotope ratios of methane indicates that the hydrocarbon gases are predominantly of thermogenic origin at all depths. The isotope signature of hydrocarbon gases of δ13 < δ13 suggests that these gases in the Sagara oil field are not generated by polymerization, but by the decomposition of organic materials.
Geochemical characteristics of crude oils from the Sagara oil field, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
Authors: Kato Susumu , Waseda Amane , Nishita Hideki
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Six oil samples collected from the Sagara oil field, Shizuoka Prefecture, were geochemically analyzed. Unlike the Niigata oils, the Sagara oils: (i) are low‐sulphur light oils dominated by gasoline and kerosene fractions; (ii) have low values of environment index in light hydrocarbon compositions; (iii) have high Pr/n‐C17 and low Ph/n‐C18 ratios and high oleanane/hopane ratios; (iv) have high relative abundance of C29 and low relative abundance of C28 regular steranes; and (v) have ‘light’ stable carbon isotope compositions. These characteristics show that the source rocks of the Sagara oils contain mainly marine organic matter, but with more input of terrigenous organic matter deposited under more oxic conditions compared to those of the Niigata oils. The light carbon isotope compositions and the low relative abundance of C28 regular steranes of the Sagara oils suggest that their source rock is not Miocene, but probably Paleogene in age. The Sagara oils probably migrated along faults from deeper parts of the basin.
MIS11–19 pollen stratigraphy from the 250‐m Choshi core, northeast Boso Peninsula, central Japan: Implications for the early/mid‐Brunhes (400–780 ka) climate signals
Authors: Okuda Masaaki , Nakazato Hiroomi , Miyoshi Norio , Nakagawa Takeshi , Okazaki Hiroko , Saito Saneatsu , Taira Asahiko
Published: September 2010

Abstract  The 250‐m Choshi core (CHOSHI‐1), drilled from hemipelagic muds of the Inubo Group, has been physically, geochemically and tephrochronologically analyzed back to 1 Ma. We provide pollen results for the 19–169 m section of the core (400–780 ka) bracketed by the marker tephra Ty1 (equivalent to J4) and the Brunhes–Matuyama paleomagnetic boundary. The results show good agreement with the corresponding oxygen isotope (δ18O) profile, with high δ18O intervals dominated by boreal conifers Picea, Abies, Pinus (subgen. Haploxylon) and Tsuga (diversifolia), whereas low δ18O intervals are dominated by temperate conifers Cryptomeria, Taxaceae‐Cephalotaxaceae‐Cupressaceae and Sciadopitys. In order to confirm pollen‐climate relations for the relevant taxa, a modern surface pollen dataset for the Japanese archipelago was consulted. In this analysis, the ratios of Cryptomeria/Picea and temperate/boreal conifers serve as proxies for the 100‐kyr glacial/interglacial cycle during the Middle Pleistocene. Distinct signals for marine isotope stages (MIS) 11, 12, 13–15, 16, 17 and 18–19 are recognized in accordance with the tephrochronology and δ18O of the same core. Application of the criteria to an independent pollen record from Lake Biwa provides an integrated pollen stratigraphy for mid‐latitude Japan during the past 800 ky. Some degree of uncertainty remains in the chronology of the MIS13–15 interval, relating to the uncertainty in the eruption age of widespread tephra Ks11.
Geology, ore deposits and hydrothermal venting in Bahía Concepción, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Authors: Camprubí Antoni , Canet Carles , Rodríguez‐Díaz Augusto A. , Prol‐Ledesma Rosa M. , Blanco‐Florido David , Villanueva Ruth E. , López‐Sánchez Abigail
Published: September 2010

Abstract  Bahía Concepción is located in the eastern coast of the Baja California peninsula and it is shaped by northwestern–southeastern normal faults. These are associated with a 12–6 Ma rifting episode, although some have been reactivated since the Pliocene. The most abundant rocks correspond to the arc related Comondú Group, Oligocene to Miocene, which forms a mainly calc‐alkaline volcanic and volcaniclastic sequence. There are less extensive outcrops of sedimentary rocks, lava flows, domes and pyroclastic rocks of Pliocene to Quaternary ages. The Neogene volcanism in the area indicates a shift from a subduction regime to an intraplate volcanism related to continental extension and the opening of an oceanic basin. The Bahía Concepción area contains numerous Mn ore deposits, being the biggest at El Gavilán and Guadalupe. The Mn deposits occur as veins, breccias and stockworks, and are composed by Mn oxides (pyrolusite, coronadite, romanechite), dolomite, quartz and barite. The deposits are hosted in volcanic rocks of the Comondú Group and, locally, in Pliocene sedimentary rocks. Thus, the Mn deposits formed between the Middle Miocene and the Pliocene. The mineralized structures are associated with Miocene northwestern–southeastern fault systems, which are analogous to those associated with the Cu‐Co‐Zn‐Mn deposits of El Boleo. The Bahía Concepción area also bears subaerial and submarine hot springs, which are associated with the same fault systems and host rocks. The submarine and subaerial geothermal manifestations south of the bay are possibly related with recent volcanism. The geothermal manifestations within the bay are intertidal hot springs and shallow submarine diffuse venting areas. Around the submarine vents (5–15 m deep, 87°C), Fe‐oxyhydroxide crusts with pyrite and cinnabar precipitate. In the intertidal vents (62°C), aggregates of opal, calcite, barite and Ba‐rich Mn oxides occur covered by silica‐carbonate stromatolitic sinters. Some 10–30 cm thick crustiform veins formed by chalcedony, calcite and barite are also found close to the vents. The hydrothermal fluids exhibit mixed isotopic compositions between δ18O‐enriched meteoric and local marine water. The precipitation of Ba‐rich Mn oxides around the vent sites could be an active analog for the processes that produced Miocene to Pliocene hydrothermal Mn‐deposits.