bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age determination of Acacia tortilis (Forsk.) Hayne from northern Kenya
Authors: MARTIN DAVID , MOSS JONATHAN
Published: December 2003

Age determination on the basis of ring count holds great potential for the study of dry woodland ecosystem dynamics. Discs from stems of Acacia tortilis from Marsabit District, northern Kenya, were collected for dendrochronological analysis. Problems in the identification of growth rings are summarized. Regression analysis is used to develop age–ring count and ring count–size relationships. The time seedlings spend in a browse‐suppressed state is also estimated. It is concluded that there is insufficient evidence for the development of statistically valid age–size relationships. Problems that current techniques have yet to overcome are identified. Future studies are recommended using cambial injury techniques, particular emphasis being placed on the potential effects of browsing on cambial activity.
Field age determination of leopards by tooth wear
Authors: STANDER P. E.
Published: December 2003

Age determination is an important tool in wildlife studies. Estimating the age of animals in the field using tooth wear criteria may be subject to error as a result of variations between individuals, habitats and populations. Data on age estimation of leopards and tooth wear characteristics are lacking. Nineteen leopards in Namibia were assessed for tooth eruption and wear. Between 1991 and 1995 leopards (including 13 individuals of known age) were monitored at one year intervals (‘28 leopard years’) to record age and tooth wear. At the age of two years leopards had fully developed dentition. Wear started with the incisors and canines, and spread to the premolars and molars. A chronology of tooth eruption and wear in relation to age is presented. Above the age of three years, male leopards showed higher frequencies of enamel flaking and canine fractures than females.
The migration of zebra and wildebeest between Tarangire National Park and Simanjiro Plains, northern Tanzania, in 1972 and recent trends
Authors: KAHURANANGA JAMES , SILKILUWASHA FRANK
Published: December 2003

In 1972, four aerial censuses were carried out to assess the annual migration of zebra and wildebeest between Tarangire National Park and Simanjiro Plains. About 6000 zebra and 10,000 wildebeest were in the Plains in the middle of the rainy season, in April. During the dry season in August the animals were concentrated in the Park. The migration from the Park to the Plains started at beginning of the rains, in November/December. Recent censuses by Tanzania Wildlife Conservation Monitoring (TWCM, 1991, 1995) indicate that an estimated 23,000 zebra and 11,000 wildebeest migrate into the Park from Simanjiro and other wet season areas. Encroaching cultivation is a threat to the migration corridors and sustainability of the ecosystem . Providing benefits from wildlife to communities around the park would safeguard the future of the wildlife.
Browse intake rates by bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) and boergoats (Capra hircus)
Authors: HASCHICK S. L. , KERLEY G. I. H.
Published: December 2003

Foraging efficiencies of bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus Pallas) and boergoats (Capra hircus Linnaeus) were evaluated in terms of browse intake rates attained when foraging from a selection of Valley Bushveld plants. Intake rates were calculated as the product of bite size and bite rate. Boergoats were capable of greater bite sizes and bite rates and were therefore more efficient foragers in terms of intake rates. Intake rates increased with increasing bite size and conformed to an asymptotic relationship, while bite rates declined with increasing bite sizes. Plant spinescence and fibre content influenced the intake rates of both species.
Methods of studying the distribution, diversity and abundance of birds in East Africa—some quantitative approaches
Authors: POMEROY DEREK , DRANZOA CHRISTINE
Published: December 2003

In this paper we compare the use of transect counts with a simpler method of investigating bird diversity and numbers, particularly in terrestrial habitats, both natural and non‐natural. Transect Counts (TCs) have long been widely used, whereas Timed Species Counts (TSCs), which estimate relative abundance, are comparatively untried. We find that TSCs give results which are comparable to those from TCs in most respects, except that they can only be used indirectly for estimating population densities, and they give different measures of diversity. However, TSCs generate data on many more species much faster than do TCs and are therefore more cost‐effective in most situations. In particular, TSCs are useful for community studies. We show, for example, that in natural habitats bird populations are positively correlated with the amount of woody vegetation, but not with rainfall. Diversity too increases with woody vegetation. Because TSCs are simple, more of them can be made for a given input of time, and hence more distributional data are obtained as an additional benefit.
The validity of open seasons for sandgrouse shooting: analysis of an 11‐year data set from Kenya
Authors: NJOROGE P. , LENS L. , SUTTON J. , BENNUN L. A.
Published: December 2003

Variation in gonadal size of shot black‐faced sandgrouse, Pterocles decoratus, and chestnut‐bellied sandgrouse, P. exustus, considered to be indicative of their breeding condition, was studied to examine whether or not breeding seasons fall within the set shooting seasons for different parts of Kenya, and to reveal a possible relationship between rainfall patterns and the onset of breeding. Analysis of an eleven‐year data set shows large overlap between the present shooting season for sandgrouse and their main breeding period in southern Kenya, while seasons for other areas and other gamebird species seem appropriate in most years. Cumulative rainfall from four to six months earlier correlates positively with the proportion of birds breeding, while rainfall in the period shortly before breeding does not. These findings support the hypothesis that sandgrouse breed when seeds are likely to be most abundant. Results from this study further suggest that incubating females frequent waterholes more often than do males, possibly due to a higher water deficit. This hypothesis, however, needs further field testing with a genuinely random sample.
Home range, association and related aspects of elephants in the eastern Transvaal Lowveld
Authors: DE VILLIERS P. A. , KOK O. B.
Published: December 2003

Home range and association patterns of elephants Loxodonta africana in private nature reserves adjacent to the Kruger National Park, South Africa, were determined over a period of six years by using radio telemetry. The minimum convex polygon (MCP) and harmonic mean (HM) methods were used for data processing. The minimum and maximum range areas required by females were estimated at 115 and 465 km2, respectively, whilst those of males varied between 157 and 342 km2. Core areas of females comprised on average 10·1% of the range areas as calculated by the MCP method. Range areas between females in the Klaserie and Timbavati Private Nature Reserves differed significantly. A significant difference in range size was also found between the male population (pooled data) and the females of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. Range areas increased from the wet to the dry season. Three male elephant categories were established, namely males utilizing the same area during the study period, those who shifted their range areas and individuals with very large range areas which frequented the area on an irregular basis. A loose relationship existed between males. Association between females can be attributed to kinship and not to the overlapping of range areas. Results indicated avoidance behaviour between females in their core areas, which might partially explain the ability of elephants to tolerate high densities. It is concluded that male elephant hunting should be approached with caution.
Home range size and distribution in a wild population of Cape pangolins, Manis temminckii, in north‐west Zimbabwe
Authors: HEATH MARTHA , COULSON IAN
Published: December 2003

The aim of this study was to estimate the size of the home range used by individual Cape pangolins (Manis temminckii). The study was conducted in 1991–95 at Sengwa Wildlife Research Institute, Gokwe, Zimbabwe. Radio‐telemetry was used to repeatedly locate study pangolins. Home range area was estimated from the location of the burrows used by each pangolin. It was established that pangolins must be tracked for 85+ days to generate a reliable estimate of home range. The size of home ranges, determined from 1141 tracking days of data for 10 pangolins (3·0–15·8 kg body mass) that were each tracked for at least 85 days, was from 0·17 to 11·07 km2. Larger (older) pangolins used more burrows and had larger home ranges than smaller (younger) pangolins. The data indicate that large adult males had larger home ranges than large adult females. Within each sex, the home ranges were adjacent to each other with only slight overlap at the boundaries. There was clear overlap of home ranges between males and females.
Spatial and temporal variability in the structure of a tropical forest
Authors: CHAPMAN C. A. , CHAPMAN L. J. , WRANGHAM R. , ISABIRYE‐BASUTA G. , BEN‐DAVID K.
Published: December 2003

This study examines spatial and temporal variation in the forest structure of the Kibale National Park, Uganda by contrasting tree density, tree size, and forest composition among four areas each separated by less than 15 km, and by quantifying changes in the composition of one of these forests over a 20‐year period. Densities of some tree species differed markedly between sites, and some species common at one location were absent at others. Monthly phenological monitoring demonstrated that it was not uncommon for phenological patterns to differ between the forests. To examine temporal variation in the tree composition over a 20‐year period, a sampling regime that was carried out in the early 1970s was replicated on the floristic composition of one of these sites, using identical methods in the same sampling areas. While no form of human intervention occurred in this area between the early 1970s and 1992, there were marked changes in the densities of some tree species. Twenty‐seven percent of the identified species increased in abundance, 33% decreased, and 40% remained relatively unchanged. The observed spatial and temporal variation in forest composition could be the result of abiotic factors, such as altitude or rainfall, or biotic factors such as elephant and/or human influences on ecosystem dynamics; the implications of this variation for frugivores are discussed.
Comparative ecology of two African forest mongooses, Herpestes naso and Atilax paludinosus
Authors: RAY JUSTINA
Published: December 2003

During a two‐year period, two mongoose species (Herpestes (Xenogale) naso and Atilax paludinosus) were studied in the Dzanga‐Sangha forest of south‐western Central African Republic by live‐trapping, radio‐telemetry, tracking and scat analysis. Clear separation with respect to habitat, activity patterns and food habits was observed. Herpestes naso, previously thought to be rare and known only from a few museum specimens, was the most abundant species in the carnivore community; in total, eleven individuals were trapped. Radio‐collared Herpestes naso spent most of their time in upland forest, but a high degree of range overlap was observed in stream‐side habitat. They were strictly diurnal and the location of their nocturnal resting sites varied from day to day. Atilax paludinosus was restricted to the swamp forest immediately adjacent to streams. A radio‐collared male exhibited a crepuscular activity pattern, and the distribution of day‐beds along the length of its home range was highly clumped. Mean travelling speeds of Atilax exceeded those of Herpestes, most likely because of the near linear shape of its home range and greater distance between borders. The diets of both carnivores were dominated by arthropods, with Atilax consuming more aquatic prey than Herpestes. It is suggested that the higher degree of habitat specificity exhibited by Atilax in the study area compared with other parts of its range was a result of the absence of otters from the smaller tributaries of the Dzanga‐Sangha forest or perhaps to the social dominance of Herpestes naso.
An assemblage of wintering waders in coastal Kenya: activity budget and habitat use
Authors: FASOLA M. , BIDDAU L.
Published: December 2003

To contribute to the poorly known ecology of Palearctic immigrant waders in East Africa, we studied the foraging system (roosting and foraging behaviours, 24‐h activity rhythm, time‐activity budget and habitat use) of eleven wader species overwintering on the Kenyan coast. The waders congregated in communal roosts and completely overlapped in their foraging rhythms, which in this tidal environment were completely determined by tides, and which were independent of the dark/light cycle. All species, both tactile and visual foragers, fed both by day and by night. This study, along with similar findings for other areas of the Palaeotropics, shows that wader activity throughout the 24‐h day is essentially uniform, and is only slightly influenced by the dark/light cycle, but is modified by tidal levels. The total time devoted to feeding by each wader species was related to their body mass. Each species used a specific micro‐habitat for foraging.
A survey of elephants (Loxodonta africana) in the Kahuzi‐Biega National Park lowland sector and adjacent forest in eastern Zaire
Authors: HALL JEFFERSON , INOGWABINI BILA‐ISIA , WILLIAMSON ELIZABETH , OMARI ILAMBU , SIKUBWABO CLAUDE , WHITE LEE
Published: December 2003

There has been considerable uncertainty about the abundance estimation of Loxodonta africana within tropical lowland moist forests in Zaire. We surveyed a 15,570 km2 area within the forests of eastern Zaire using transect sampling methods and estimated the elephant population to be 3720 (range 2300–5000) individuals. Dung pile densities were significantly different between adjacent settlement, deep forest, and deep forest core strata, with the most remote area harbouring the highest density. Evidence of elephant poaching was encountered throughout the survey area suggesting that elephant populations continue to be at severe risk.
Linking riparian vegetation types and fluvial geomorphology along the Sabie River within the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: VAN COLLER ALAN , ROGERS KEVIN , HERITAGE GEORGE
Published: December 2003

Vegetation types were studied in relation to the fluvial geomorphology along the mixed bedrock‐alluvial Sabie River within the Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa. Six vegetation types were identified using TWINSPAN analysis, namely: Phragmites mauritianus, Phyllanthus reticulatus, Breonadia salicina, Combretum erythrophyllum, Diospyros mespiliformis and Spirostachys africana vegetation types. Spirostachys africana and Diospyros mespiliformis vegetation types were found to occur predominantly on the stable, infrequently flooded macro‐channel banks, while the remaining four vegetation types were found almost exclusively along the more geomorphically and hydrologically dynamic macro‐channel floor. The degree of bedrock or alluvial influence was identified as being an integral factor in the distribution of the four macro‐channel floor vegetation types at both the morphological unit and the channel type scale. The geomorphological continuum from the bedrock influenced bedrock anastomosing channel types, to mixed anastomosing and pool‐rapid channel types, to the fully alluvial braided channel types, is reflected in the change in species composition from Breonadia salicina vegetation type, to Phyllanthus reticulatus and Phragmites mauritianus vegetation types, to Combretum erythrophyllum vegetation types, respectively. Given the vegetation/fluvial geomorphology links established, changes in vegetation composition are proposed in response to scenarios of geomorphological change as a result of progressive sedimentation.
The distribution patterns of reptiles in the Riff region, northern Morocco
Authors: REAL R. , PLEGUEZUELOS J. M. , FAHD S.
Published: December 2003

A biogeographical classification of reptiles in the Riff region (northern Morocco, Africa) was carried out to look for shared distribution patterns, here termed chorotypes. Baroni‐Urbani & Buser's similarity index was applied to the presence/absence data of reptiles in 10×10 km UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) squares, and then UPGMA (Unweighted Pair‐Group Method using arithmetic average) was used to classify the species. A probabilistic method was employed to assess the statistical significance of the groups obtained. An ordination method, the Canonical Correspondence Analysis, was also used to study the distribution of the reptiles within a continuous framework.

A gradual longitudinal replacement of reptile species was found throughout the Riff, with no sharp discontinuities for the distributions of most of the species. This may be due to the biogeographical northward movement of the Saharan boundaries, which have not yet reached biogeographical equilibrium. Thus, Saharan reptiles enter the Riff region from the east, through the lower basin of the River Moulouya.

Seven reptile chorotypes were identified in the Riff, and these comprise Mediterranean species and others endemic to the Maghreb (the region that spans most of North‐western Africa, excluding the Sahara). These chorotypes have a western distribution, and are segregated from one another according to altitude. Historical and ecological processes can account for the distributions shared by these species, which have inhabited the Riff for longer than eastern reptiles.
The diet of Pteropus voeltzkowi, an endangered fruit bat endemic to Pemba Island, Tanzania
Authors: ENTWISTLE ABIGAIL , CORP NADIA
Published: December 2003

The diet of the Pemba flying fox Pteropus voeltzkowi, a species endemic to the island of Pemba off Tanzania, was investigated. Faecal pellets, ejecta and dropped fruits were collected from under roosts to facilitate dietary analysis. This was supplemented by data from local villagers and school students. The main component of the diet was mango (Mangifera indica), but bats also ate breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis), figs (Ficus spp.), flowers, leaves, and other fruit. Pollen from at least five plant species was also found in faecal pellets. Pteropus voeltzkowi may be one of the only species on the island that disperses larger seeds. The germination rate of bat‐ingested seeds was higher than that for seeds from ripe fruit, and this appeared to be linked to selective ingestion of viable seeds by bats.
Preliminary estimates of the population density of the Sokoke scops owl Otus ireneae Ripley in the East Usambara lowlands, Tanzania
Authors: EVANS TOM
Published: December 2003

Preliminary population density estimates are presented for a recently discovered population of the Sokoke scops owl Otus ireneae in the lowlands of the East Usambara mountains, Tanzania. Calling birds were mapped at two sites totalling 6·3 km2. Approximate densities were 3–4 territories/km2 in Kwamgumi Forest Reserve and <1·5 territories/km2 in Manga Forest Reserve, a much more heavily logged site. Densities in prime habitat in Arabuko‐Sokoke forest, Kenya, the only other locality for the species, exceed seven territories/km2. The total population in the East Usambaras cannot be calculated, but it is probably markedly smaller than in Arabuko‐Sokoke. Suggestions for more precise surveys are made.
A photographic census of flamingos in the Rift Valley lakes of Tanzania
Authors: WOODWORTH B. L. , FARM B. P. , MUFUNGO C. , BORNER M. , OLE KUWAI J.
Published: December 2003

An aerial photographic census of flamingos (Phoenicopterus minor and P. ruber) was conducted on 20 July 1994 on nine lakes in Tanzania: Lakes Natron, Manyara, Magadi (Ngorongoro), Burungi, Embagai, Eyasi, Lagarja, Masek, and Ambussel. This census, conducted concurrently with a survey in Kenya, documented the numbers and distribution of flamingos in the Rift Valley Lakes of East Africa. The total population size of flamingos in the Tanzanian lakes surveyed was |mF907,000. The largest concentrations in Tanzania were found in Lake Natron and Embagai Crater Lake. Although flamingos are known to breed in Lake Natron, no evidence of breeding was observed during the survey. The total estimate for the southern Kenya and northern Tanzania Rift Valley was |mF2·8 million. Trends in flamingo populations, survey methodology, and future monitoring needs are discussed.
Mopane diaspores are not dispersed by epizoochory
Authors: STYLES C. V. , SKINNER J. D.
Published: December 2003

The mode of dispersal of the diaspores of Colophospermum mopane has always been ascribed to epizoochory due the slightly sticky nature of mopane diaspores. The stickiness results from the plentiful supply of resinous compounds in developing structures on a mopane plant. Epizoochory as the mode of dispersal for both seeds which had the pod removed and diaspores of C. mopane is disproved, and experimentation shows the most likely agents of dispersal of mopane diaspores to be water and wind.
Foraging behaviour and ecology of the Cape pangolin (Manis temminckii) in north‐western Zimbabwe
Authors: RICHER RENEE , COULSON IAN , HEATH MARTHA
Published: December 2003

An ethogram was developed for the foraging Cape pangolin in order to construct activity budgets. Behaviour was classified into seven categories and nine types of feeding sites were recorded. Activity budgets of animals foraging in different vegetation types are presented to illustrate the importance of vegetation on behaviour patterns and feeding site utilization. Availability of feeding sites may depend on the vegetation type with trees, shrubs and woody debris comprising most feeding sites. Seven prey species were recorded. One animal displayed strictly diurnal activity which suggests greater variability in activity patterns than previously thought.
Problems with capnography at high altitude*
Authors: Pattinson K. , Myers S. , Gardner‐Thorpe C.
Published: December 2003

The aim of this study was to investigate why capnographs malfunction at high altitude, in order to suggest ways of improving instrument reliability. Four machines were decompressed to simulated high altitude and measurements taken. The study showed that the reduced air density at altitude has effects upon the pump, causing difficulty in entraining gas, and that high altitude has additional effects upon calibration of the instruments.
Bougie‐assisted difficult airway management in a manikin – the effect of position held on placement and force exerted by the tip*
Authors: Hodzovic I. , Wilkes A. R. , Latto I. P.
Published: December 2003

In a randomised cross‐over study, 50 anaesthetists attempted to place a multiple‐use bougie in the trachea of a manikin, when holding it at either 20 cm or 30 cm from the tip. A grade 3 laryngoscopic view was simulated. The anaesthetists were blinded to success (tracheal placement) or failure (oesophageal placement). The success rates when held at 20 and 30 cm distance from the tip were 68 and 62%, respectively (p = 0.55). In a separate experiment, multiple and single‐use bougies were held at four different positions and pressed onto a disc attached to a force transducer. The peak force exerted by the single‐use bougies was two to three times greater than that which could be exerted by the multiple‐use bougies (p < 0.0001). Holding the bougie at either 20 or 30 cm distance from the tip is unlikely to influence bougie placement. The single‐use bougie is much more likely to cause trauma to tissue during placement, particularly if held close to the tip.
A prospective, randomised clinical evaluation of a new safety‐orientated injectable drug administration system in comparison with conventional methods*
Authors: Webster C. S. , Merry A. F. , Gander P. H. , Mann N. K.
Published: December 2003

Fifteen anaesthetists were observed while providing anaesthesia for 15 pairs of adult cardiac surgical operations, using conventional methods for one of each pair and a new drug administration system designed to reduce error for the other. Aspects of each method were rated by users on 10‐cm visual analogue scales (10 being best). The new system was rated more favourably than conventional methods in terms of safety (median [range] = 8.1 [6.8–9.7] vs. 7.1 [2.6–9.3] cm; p = 0.001) and usability (8.5 [5.9–9.4] vs. 7.5 [3.2–9.8] cm; p = 0.027). The new system saved preparation time both before anaesthesia (median [range] = 180 [32–480] vs. 360 [120–600] s; p = 0.013) and during anaesthesia (10 [2–38] vs. 12 [10–60] s; p = 0.009). Prefilled syringes for the new system increased costs by €23.00 per anaesthetic (p = 0.041), but this increase is likely to be offset by the potential of the new system to decrease costly iatrogenic harm by preventing drug error.
The effect of nitrous oxide on cerebral blood flow velocity in children anaesthetised with sevoflurane*
Authors: Rowney D. A. , Fairgrieve R. , Bissonnette B.
Published: December 2003

To determine the effects of nitrous oxide on middle cerebral artery blood flow velocity (CBFV) during sevoflurane anaesthesia in children, CBFV was measured using transcranial Doppler sonography in 16 ASA I or II children. Anaesthesia consisted of 1.0 MAC sevoflurane in 30% oxygen with intermittent positive pressure ventilation maintaining FEco2 at 38 mmHg (5.0 kPa) and a caudal epidural block using 0.25% bupivacaine 1.0 ml.kg−1. The remainder of the inspired gas was varied in one of two sequences either air/nitrous oxide/air or nitrous oxide/air/nitrous oxide. The results showed that CBFV decreased when nitrous oxide was replaced by air (p = 0.03) and returned to its initial value when nitrous oxide was reintroduced. CBFV increased when air was replaced by nitrous oxide (p = 0.04) and returned to its initial value when air was reintroduced. Mean heart rate and blood pressure remained constant. We conclude that nitrous oxide increases cerebral blood flow velocity in healthy children anaesthetised with 1.0 MAC sevoflurane.
Therapeutic impact of intra‐operative transoesophageal echocardiography during noncardiac surgery*
Authors: Hofer C. K. , Zollinger A. , Rak M. , Matter‐Ensner S. , Klaghofer R. , Pasch Th. , Zalunardo M. P.
Published: December 2003

The impact of transoesophageal echocardiography on haemodynamic management during elective noncardiac surgery was assessed during this observational prospective database analysis. Ninety‐nine consecutive patients were studied, who were at risk of intra‐operative myocardial ischaemia or haemodynamic instability (Class II indications) and were undergoing vascular, visceral or chest surgery. A total of 165 new echocardiographic findings were recorded. Based on these findings changes in drug therapy were made in 47% and changes in fluid therapy in 24% of patients. Left ventricular wall motion abnormalities were seen in 32% and other relevant diagnoses made in 10%. Echocardiography showed a significant impact on drug therapy in patients with pre‐operative systolic wall motion abnormalities (vasodilators: OR = 7.1, CI 95% = 2.1/24.0; vasopressors: OR = 3.3, CI 95% = 1.2/9.1) and patients with a history of left heart failure (vasodilators: OR = 5.2, CI 95% = 1.0/31.4). Fluid therapy was significantly influenced by echocardiographic findings during liver and lung transplantation (50% compared with 24% during other surgical interventions, p < 0.05).
Genetic variation within and relationships among populations of Asian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Barker J S F , Tan S G , Selvaraj O S , Mukherjee T K
Published: December 2003

Genetic variation at 53 protein‐coding loci (25 polymorphic) was analysed for 17 water buffalo populations – 12 swamp, three Lankan and two of the Murrah breed (river type), to determine the magnitude of genetic differentiation and the genetic relationships among the populations. In accord with previous cytological studies, the Lankan buffalo clearly are river type. Significant deviations from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium were shown for a number of locus–population combinations, with all populations but one showing significant heterogeneity in these deviations among loci. By contrast, heterogeneity among populations for each locus was much less, indicating locus‐specific deviations, which suggest selection affecting allele frequencies at some loci. There was significant genetic differentiation among populations of both the swamp and river types. The differentiation among the swamp populations may reflect the geography of south‐east Asia and the presumed spread of the swamp buffalo through this region. Phylogenies derived from pairwise genetic distance estimates show the clear separation of swamp and river types, but the topology of the swamp populations shows rather poor consistency with their geographic locations. For at least one population (Australia), it is clear that bottleneck effects have distorted the phylogenetic topology. Average genetic distances for both the swamp and river types, as compared with previous studies of livestock breeds, show that the genetic differentiation of each of these sets of populations is of the same order of magnitude as that among well‐recognized and established breeds of other species.
Genetic characterization of the bovine leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) gene: isolation and sequencing, chromosome assignment and microsatellite analysis
Authors: Piedrahita J A , Weaks R , Petrescu A , Shrode T W , Derr J N , Womack J E
Published: December 2003

The bovine leukaemia inhibitory factor was isolated from a phage library and sequences for the gene, in addition to 1213bp of 5' and 432bp of 3' sequences, were obtained and compared with other mammalian leukaemia inhibitory factor genes. Comparisons indicated amino acid homologies ranging from 89·6% to 77·2% with the human and mouse homologues, respectively. Analysis of 500bp of 5' regulatory regions indicated homologies ranging from 83·6% to 74·4% with the corresponding human and sheep sequences, respectively. Additionally, bovine leukaemia inhibitory factor‐specific primers were prepared, and a panel of bovine × hamster somatic cell lines were analysed by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Data indicated 93% concordance of leukaemia inhibitory factor with aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 located on bovine chromosome 17, and concordance of 81% with myelin basic protein situated on bovine chromosome 24. Southern analysis of selected hybrids confirmed the PCR results, thus conclusively assigning the bovine leukaemia inhibitory factor gene to chromosome 17. Sequence analysis also revealed a microsatellite in intron 2 of the bovine leukaemia inhibitory factor. Analysis of this region by PCR in 22 unrelated Bos taurus and 19 unrelated Bos indicus cattle detected nine different alleles. Polymorphic information content values were 0·53 and 0·80 in B. taurus and B. indicus, respectively. Additionally, the same leukaemia inhibitory factor primers successfully detected allelic variants at this locus in Bos javanicus, Bos guarus and Bison bison but not in Odocoileus virginianus.
Chromosomal localization of six bovine microsatellite markers
Authors: Grosz M D , Solinas‐Toldo S , Stone R T , Kappes S M , Beattie C W , Fries R
Published: December 2003

Six lambda genomic clones containing polymorphic microsatellite (MS) markers were assigned to bovine chromosomes 1, 3, 5, 7, 13 and 24 by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Linkage data for four MS markers were presented earlier and linkage data for the remaining two on chromosome 7 and 24 are presented here. All assignments either orient or confirm the orientation of linkage groups relative to the centromere. A comparison of physical assignments and linkage intervals was possible on chromosome 5 (three loci, 38 cM) and 13 (two loci, 6 cM).
Canine Mhc DRB1 genotyping by PCR–RFLP analysis
Authors: Francino O , Amills M , Sánchez A
Published: December 2003

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) genotyping procedure has been developed for the canine major histocompatibility complex DRB1 gene (Cafa‐DRB1), which allows us to distinguish all the DRB1 alleles described to date and reveals the existence of new ones. The polymorphic second exon of the Cafa‐DRB1 gene was amplified and the product analysed for restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) with the enzymes RsaI, MboI, TaqI and AspHI. Nine RFLP combinations could be associated with previously known alleles. Two new RFLP combinations corresponded to new alleles and were confirmed by DNA sequencing (Cafa‐DRB1*10 and Cafa‐DRB1*11). Close associations between RFLPs in the DRB1 second exon and the presence of specific amino acid residues included in the side‐chain pockets of the antigen‐binding site of the DR molecule are also described.
A PCR‐based test for the presence of endogenous virus gene evA in chickens
Authors: Nave A , Iraqi F , Khatib H , Soller M
Published: December 2003

An endogenous virus, denoted evA, is present at high frequency in all brown egg layer lines. Using inverse polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based on the viral LTR regions, products were obtained containing cellular sequences 5' and 3' to the viral insertion point. PCR of chicken genomic DNA was carried out, using primers chosen from the 5' and 3' cellular sequences and a primer chosen from either the U3 or U5 portions of the viral LTR. Amplification of DNA from birds that did not carry evA with the primer triplets always gave a single 364bp reaction product, interpreted as representing the flank‐to‐flank amplification product. Amplification of DNA from known homozygous or heterozygous evA carriers, with the same primer triplets, always gave both the expected junction product and 364bp product. Therefore, these primer sequences can be used to distinguish evA carriers from non‐carriers but cannot distinguish between homozygous and heterozygous evA carriers.
Dwarfism in Dexter cattle is not caused by the mutations in FGFR3 responsible for achondroplasia in humans
Authors: Usha A P , Lester D H , Williams J L
Published: December 2003

Dexter cattle carry a genetic defect causing a dwarf phenotype in the heterozygotes (Dx +/–), while homozygotes (Dx +/+) are stillborn with extreme shortening of limbs and gross craniofacial defects and are described as ‘bulldog’ calves. The heterozygous phenotype has been likened to achondroplastic dwarfism in humans (ACH), which has recently been shown to be the result of mutations in the transmembrane region of the fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) gene. We have sequenced the transmembrane region of bovine FGFR3 from normal Dexter cattle (Dx ‐/‐) and bulldog calves (Dx +/+). The sequence from both is identical and therefore excludes mutations in the transmembrane region of FGFR3 as the cause of Dexter dwarfism.
Minisatellite and microsatellite length variation at a complex bovine VNTR locus
Authors: Nave A , Soller M , Kashi Y
Published: December 2003

Length variation at the BTGL1 variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) locus, which includes both minisatellite and microsatellite motifs, was examined in a wide sample of cattle. A total of 22 alleles were uncovered. The distribution of allele size variation implicated mechanisms involving both minisatellite and microsatellite sequences. This was confirmed by direct sequencing of two alleles. Differences between the two alleles involved repeat number variation of microsatellite motifs and a complex event involving the minisatellite motif, but point mutations were not observed.
Gene diversity analysis in natural populations and cultured stocks of turbot (Scophthalmus maximus L.)
Authors: Bouza C , Sánchez L , Martínez P
Published: December 2003

The genetic variability of eight fish‐farm and three natural populations of turbot was studied by electrophoretic analysis of 35 enzymatic loci. The results showed low genetic variability in natural populations of turbot (HT = 0·029 ± 0·013) in comparison with other flatfish species. Great genetic similarity was revealed among the natural populations studied, which indicates high rates of gene flow in this species. The hatchery stocks showed less genetic variation than the wild populations analysed, which suggests genetic drift phenomena involved in the foundation and management of broodstocks. In addition, the heterozygosity differences detected among the hatchery stocks analysed are correlated with inverted levels of fluctuating asymmetry, which supports the existence of inbreeding depression phenomena in turbot culture.
DNA polymorphisms in the chicken growth hormone gene: response to selection for disease resistance and association with egg production
Authors: Kuhnlein U , Ni L , Zadworny D , S Weigend  , J S Gavora  , Fairfull W
Published: December 2003

Analysis of the growth hormone (GH) gene in 12 strains of White Leghorn chickens revealed restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) at three MspI sites and at a SacI site. Based on linkage disequilibrium analysis, they gave rise to eight different alleles (i.e. combinations of RFLPs), with five occurring at frequencies above 5% in at least one strain. Pairs of GH–RFLPs were at near maximal linkage disequilibrium, suggesting either a lack of recombination or the presence of selection pressure during evolution of the GH gene. Allele frequencies were determined in 12 non‐inbred strains derived from three different genetic bases. These strains had been selected either for an array of egg production traits, resistance to Marek’s disease or resistance to avian leukosis. Selection for disease resistance was consistently correlated with an increase in the frequency of one of the alleles. One strain segregated for only two alleles, which differed by three RFLPs. Analysis of variance in this strain indicated that the GH allele co‐selected with resistance was associated with a delayed onset of ovulation but a higher persistency of ovulation as age progressed, resulting in an overall increase of egg production by 15% (age at first egg to 497 days). The resistance‐associated GH allele was dominant for the onset of ovulation and recessive for the persistency of egg production. There was no significant effect of the GH genotype on juvenile body weight, egg weight or egg specific gravity.
Chromosomal assignment of six muscle‐specific genes in cattle
Authors: Ryan A M , Schelling C P , Womack J E , Gallagher Jr D S
Published: December 2003

Six genes expressed in skeletal or smooth muscle were assigned to bovine chromosomes using rodent, human or bovine cDNA probes. Myogenic determination factor (MYOD1) was 100% concordant with Bos taurus chromosome (BTA) 15, and myogenin (MYOG) was 95% concordant with BTA 16. Smooth muscle caldesmon (CALD1) and the skeletal muscle chloride channel gene (CLCN1) were 100% concordant with BTA 4. Myogenic factor 5 (MYF5) was 90% concordant with BTA 5; this assignment was confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization of a bovine genomic MYF5 probe to BTA 5 band 13 and the homologous band on river buffalo 4q. In some metaphases, specific hybridization signals were also observed on BTA 15 band 23, and the equivalent river buffalo homologue, with the MYF5 genomic probe. Because MYOD1 and MYF5 share both nucleotide and functional homology and because MYOD1 was mapped in somatic cell hybrids to BTA 15, we suggest that MYOD1 may be located at BTA 15 band 23. Herculin/myogenic factor 6 (MYF6) was assigned indirectly to BTA 5 by the hybridization of MYF5 and MYF6 probes to the same HindIII fragment in bovine genomic DNA. The assignment of MYF6 to BTA 5 is consistent with the tandem arrangement of MYF5 and MYF6 in human, mouse and chicken, where these tightly linked genes are separated by < 6·5 kb of DNA.
Contribution to the physically anchored linkage map of the pig
Authors: Robic A , Milan D , Woloszyn N , Riquet J , Yerle M , Bonnet M , Pinton P , Dalens M , Gellin J , Nagel M
Published: December 2003

Thirty‐three microsatellites have been mapped on the PiGMaP porcine genetic map. By comparison with the previously published PiGMaP maps, the maps of chromosome 2 (140 cM/70 cM) and chromosome 3 (180 cM/110 cM) were extended and new markers were mapped on the p‐arm extremity of chromosome 7 and on the centromeric extremity of chromosome 15. New orders are proposed for markers on chromosomes 3 and 17. Six microsatellites isolated from cosmids were also localized on the cytogenetic map by fluorescent in situ hybridization. We tested the subcloning ligation mixture–polymerase chain reaction (SLiM‐PCR) method for isolating microsatellites from cosmids. Subcloning is more effective when the cosmid harbours several microsatellites whereas SLiM‐PCR is more straightforward when the cosmid contains a single microsatellite. Fifteen anonymous microsatellites were regionally assigned by using a hybrid cell panel. For map integration, the determination of a regional assignment of anonymous microsatellites by using a hybrid cell panel offers an alternative to microsatellite isolation from cosmids and their localizations by in situ hybridization.
Genetic diversity of Asian water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis): microsatellite variation and a comparison with protein‐coding loci
Authors: Barker J S F , Moore S S , Hetzel D J S , Evans D , Byrne K , S G Tan
Published: December 2003

Twenty‐one microsatellite loci in 11 populations of Asian water buffalo (eight swamp, three river type) were analysed and, within and among populations, genetic variability was compared with results from 25 polymorphic protein‐coding loci. Within‐population mean heterozygosity ranged from 0·380–0·615, approximately twice that estimated from the protein‐coding loci (0·184– 0·346). Only eight significant departures from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (involving four loci) were detected; global tests showed significant heterozygote deficiencies for these four loci. Non‐amplifying alleles are likely to be segregating in some or all populations for one of these loci, and probably for the other three. There was significant differentiation between the swamp and river types of water buffalo, and among populations within each buffalo type. Estimates of θ (measure of population differentiation) for each locus for the eight swamp populations were all highly significant (mean θ = 0·168 ± 0·018). Mean θ for protein‐coding loci was not significantly different (0·182 ± 0·041). The variance among protein‐coding loci was significantly higher than among microsatellite loci, suggesting balancing selection affecting allele frequencies at some protein‐coding loci. Genetic distances show clear separation of the swamp and river types, which were estimated to have diverged at least 10 000–15 000 years ago. The topology of the swamp populations’ microsatellite tree is consistent with their geographical distribution and their presumed spread through south‐east Asia. By contrast, the tree based on the protein‐coding loci distances is quite different, being clearly distorted by a bottleneck effect in one population, and possibly in at least two others. As many domestic livestock breeds are possibly descended from small numbers of founders, microsatellite‐based trees are to be preferred in assessing breed genetic relationships.
Relationship of growth hormone and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 genotypes with growth and carcass traits in swine
Authors: Casas‐Carrillo E , Kirkpatrick B W , Prill‐Adams A , Price S G , Clutter A C
Published: December 2003

The contribution of chromosomal regions linked to growth hormone (GH) and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) loci to variation in preweaning average daily gain, postweaning average daily gain (ADG), 10th rib backfat, loin‐eye area and muscle pH were evaluated. Offspring of four purebred sires (A–D; n = 150, 195, 148 and 136, respectively) and two crossbred sires (E and F; n = 157 and 145, respectively) were genotyped initially with GH and IGF‐1 markers. When results of single marker analysis suggested possible linkage with a quantitative trait locus (QTL), additional flanking markers were typed for the family and interval mapping was performed. Growth hormone genotype was not associated with the traits evaluated in the study. Evidence suggestive of linkage was found for IGF‐1 genotype and ADG in one sire family (lod = 2·3) where differences were 0.032 ± 0·01 kg/day for alternative sire alleles. Evidence for a putative ADG QTL was greatest in the interval between IGF‐1 and Sw1071. A similar genomic region has been associated with growth variation in mice; however, QTL mapping precision in the current study is insufficient to establish similarity.
Classification of the southern African sanga and East African shorthorned zebu
Authors: Frisch J E , Drinkwater R , Harrison B , Johnson S
Published: December 2003

Humped African cattle, which are differentiated into zebu and sanga types, have traditionally been classified as Bos indicus. This paper discusses existing evidence and presents new evidence supporting the classification of southern African sangas as Bos taurus and East African zebus as ‘taurindicus’. Classification is based on karyotype, frequencies of DNA markers and protein polymorphisms. The Boran, an East African zebu, has an acrocentric Y chromosome typical of Bos indicus. The southern African sanga breeds have a submetacentric Y chromosome typical of Bos taurus. Frequencies of four DNA markers support the hypothesis that the Tuli, a southern African sanga, had taurine ancestors and the Boran had both taurine and indicine ancestors. Frequencies for several protein polymorphisms strongly suggest that southern African sangas have more in common with taurine than with indicine breeds, while East African zebus are an admixture of African taurine and Asian indicine breeds.
Assignment of the casein kinase II gene family to cattle chromosomes
Authors: Gao Q , Li L , Womack J E
Published: December 2003

Theileriosis, or East Coast fever, a parasitic disease in cattle, is associated with overexpression of casein kinase II. Casein kinase II is composed of two catalytic subunits (α or α') and two regulatory β subunits. The genes encoding these subunits of casein kinase II were mapped to bovine chromosomes by polymerase chain reaction analysis of a well‐characterized bovine × rodent somatic hybrid cell panel. The α‐subunit (CSNK2A1) was mapped to bovine chromosome 13, the α'‐subunit (CSNK2A2) to chromosome 5 and the β‐subunit (CSNK2B) to chromosome 23. Both CSNK2A1 and CSNK2B mapped to known regions of conserved synteny between human and cattle, while CSNK2A2 defined a new homology segment between the human and bovine genomes.
Associations of GH gene variants with performance traits in F2 generations of European wild boar, Piétrain and Meishan pigs
Authors: Knorr C , Moser G , Müller E , Geldermann H
Published: December 2003

The role of the porcine GH gene was investigated in 292 F2 animals of mating Wild Boar × Piétrain and in 310 F2 animals of mating Meishan × Piétrain. Forty‐three traits of fattening, carcass composition, meat quality and stress resistance were recorded. For the analysis of associations between GH gene variants and quantitative traits, two restriction fragment length polymorphisms were examined. In the Meishan × Piétrain family eight traits related to fatness were significantly associated with GH genotypes, while in the Wild Boar × Piétrain family no significant associations were found. In the Meishan × Piétrain cross, the GH locus explained 11·7% to 17·7% of the total phenotypic variance in the F2 population. The possibility of multiple alleles at the GH locus is discussed. Based on these results, we conclude that the GH locus should be further investigated in commercial breeds to determine its suitability for use in marker‐assisted selection programmes.