bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulating the equivalent radar reflectivity of cirrus at 94 GHz using an ensemble model of cirrus ice crystals: a test of the Met Office global numerical weather prediction model
Authors: Baran Anthony. J. , Bodas‐Salcedo Alejandro , Cotton Richard , Lee Clare
Published: August 2011

In this paper an ensemble model of ice crystals previously used to simulate the short‐wave scattering properties of cirrus is now applied to simulate its equivalent radar reflectivity (Ze) at 94 GHz. It is shown that the ensemble model conserves the mass of aggregating ice crystals when compared against in situ derived mass‐dimensional (m‐D) relationships. The ensemble model derived m‐D relationship is applied to the Rayleigh–Gans approximation to obtain a new parametrized radar reflectivity forward model for general circulation models (GCMs). The derived forward model is parametrized as a function of ice mixing ratio and in‐cloud temperature, and it is shown that the forward model error is generally well within ±2 dBZe using a linear fit; this new parametrization negates the need for an ‘effective diameter’.

The Met Office Unified global Model (MetUM) predictions of ice water content (IWC) and Ze are compared against profiled in situ microphysical probe estimates of IWC and Ze, based on in situ estimates. The in situ IWC profiles were obtained from a midlatitude cirrus case during an airborne campaign around the UK. The paper demonstrates that towards cloud‐bottom and cloud‐top the MetUM prediction of IWC is generally within and outside the experimental uncertainty, respectively. The MetUM forward simulation of Ze assumes two particle size distributions (PSDs) of differing shapes and it is shown that the broader PSD simulates Ze better when compared against Ze based on in situ estimates for all altitudes. For the same case the PSD assumed in the CloudSat retrieval of IWC is also investigated and it is speculated that it could be too narrow towards cloud‐bottom. The paper demonstrates the need for consistent PSDs when forward modelling Ze at 94 GHz, and the forward radar model error in the MetUM should be better characterized. Copyright © 2011 British Crown copyright, the Met Office. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
The Canadian Global Environmental Multiscale model on the Yin‐Yang grid system
Authors: Qaddouri Abdessamad , Lee Vivian
Published: August 2011

At the Canadian Meteorological Center (CMC), we are currently developing the future global forecasting Yin‐Yang model. In the horizontal we use spherical coordinates on the overset Yin‐Yang grid, while in the vertical we use a log‐hydrostatic‐pressure coordinate on the Charney–Phillips grid. The parametrization of physical processes is kept the same as in the current Global Environmental Multiscale (GEM) operational model. The Yin‐Yang global forecast is performed by considering a domain decomposition (a two‐way coupling method) between two limited‐area models (LAMs) discretized on the two panels of the Yin‐Yang grid and using the same time step. Each panel of the Yin‐Yang grid system is extended by a static halo region and uses the same fully implicit semi‐Lagrangian method as in the GEM operational model to solve its own dynamic core. The spatial and time discretizations are implemented independently on each quasi‐uniform latitude–longitude subgrid. The static halo region plays the same role as the piloting region in limited‐area modelling. Since the two subgrids of the Yin‐Yang grid do not match, the update of the variables in the pilot region is done by cubic Lagrange interpolation. For our model validation, we ran 42 winter and 42 summer cases using analysis from 2008–2009 and we compared five‐day forecast results against observations. No noise is seen in the overlap regions during the simulations. Preliminary results presented in this article are encouraging and demonstrate that in comparison with observations the new Yin‐Yang system performs as well as the GEM global model. © 2011 Crown in the right of Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Growing pains: Pre‐entry experience and the challenge of transition to incumbency
Authors: Chen Pao‐Lien , Williams Charles , Agarwal Rajshree
Published: August 2011

We examine how entrepreneurial entry by diversifying and de novo firms in new industries leads to different levels of performance. We propose that these types of firms differ in dynamic capabilities, which help them overcome growth impediments and transition to incumbency in the industry. Growth impediments arise at larger size, older tenure levels in industry, and after technological discontinuities. Because of their prior experience, diversifying firms are better equipped to handle the challenges of impediments to growth. Meanwhile, de novo firms, ostensibly tailor‐made for the targeted industry, are more likely to stumble over these growth challenges, and eventually lag behind diversifying firms. We find support for our hypotheses using a near census of firms in the U.S. wireless telecommunications industry over the 1983–2004 period. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Formation Mechanisms of Uniform Nanocrystals via Hot‐Injection and Heat‐Up Methods
Authors: Kwon Soon Gu , Hyeon Taeghwan
Published: August 2011

Synthesis of uniform nanocrystals is very important because the size uniformity of an ensemble of nanocrystals is directly related to the homogeneity of their chemical and physical properties. Classical theory suggests that burst nucleation and diffusion‐controlled growth are the most important factors for the control of the size distribution in colloidal synthesis. In the last two decades, the numerous reports on the synthesis of uniform nanocrystals have popularized two major synthetic methods, namely, hot‐injection and heat‐up, to obtain uniform nanocrystals of various materials including metals, semiconductors, and oxides. Mechanistic studies on how such uniform nanocrystals are obtained in those two methods are reviewed and theoretical explanations are provided in the current review.
Spray Deposition of Highly Transparent, Low‐Resistance Networks of Silver Nanowires over Large Areas
Authors: Scardaci Vittorio , Coull Richard , Lyons Philip E. , Rickard David , Coleman Jonathan N.
Published: August 2011

A method to produce scalable, low‐resistance, high‐transparency, percolating networks of silver nanowires by spray coating is presented. By optimizing the spraying parameters, networks with a sheet resistance of Rs ≈ 50 Ω □−1 at a transparency of T = 90% can be produced. The critical processing parameter is shown to be the spraying pressure. Optimizing the pressure reduces the droplet size resulting in more uniform networks. High uniformity leads to a low percolation exponent, which is essential for low‐resistance, high‐transparency films.
The Real‐Time Systems Compiler: migrating event‐triggered systems to time‐triggered systems
Authors: Scheler Fabian , Schröder‐Preikschat Wolfgang
Published: August 2011

In this paper, we present a prototype of the Real‐Time Systems Compiler (RTSC). The RTSC is a compiler‐based tool that enables the migration from event‐triggered to time‐triggered real‐time systems. This is achieved by replacing the real‐time systems architecture of a given real‐time system. The real‐time systems architecture governs the structural properties of the white‐box view of a real‐time system: how are tasks attached to events and how are dependencies between different tasks implemented. The RTSC uses an abstraction called Atomic Basic Blocks (ABBs) to hide the real‐time systems architecture and capture all relevant dependencies of an event‐triggered system in a global ABB‐graph. The RTSC automatically extracts that ABB‐graph from an event‐triggered real‐time system given as source code, transforms that ABB‐graph appropriately, and maps it to a statically computed schedule that could be executed by standard time‐triggered real‐time operating systems. Important temporal properties of the physical environment of the real‐time system needed for that transformation are stored in a system model provided as additional input to the RTSC. Furthermore, we demonstrate the applicability of our approach and the operation of our prototype by transforming an event‐triggered control application into a time‐triggered equivalent. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rheological, mechanical and moisture sorption characteristics of cassava starch‐konjac glucomannan blend films
Authors: Nair Soumya B. , Jyothi Alummoottil N. , Sajeev Moothandasserry S. , Misra Rajasekhara
Published: August 2011

Cassava starch (ST)‐konjac glucomannan (KGM) blend films were prepared and their thermal, rheological, mechanical, moisture sorption properties and water vapour transmission rate were determined. Response surface methodology was employed for the preparation of films using different levels of ST, KGM and glycerol. All the filmogenic solutions exhibited shear thinning behaviour. Apparent viscosity and the dynamic rheological properties of filmogenic solutions varied considerably with KGM content. Rheological analysis revealed that the blend films are more appropriate than neat ST film for controlled drug release studies and for food coating. The melting temperature and enthalpy of fusion of the blend films were lower than that of neat ST film. When compared to neat starch film, the blend films showed broader peaks in DSC patterns, which suggests that incorporation of KGM decreased the crystallinity of ST. Mechanical properties, elongation at break and tensile strength of blend films were significantly higher (112.8% and 22.5 MPa, respectively) than those of neat ST film. Due to the more hydrophilic nature of KGM when compared to ST, the WVTR and moisture absorption of blend films were greater than that of neat ST film. Though KGM is more hydrophillic in nature, blend films with higher amount of KGM (0.643g) showed comparably lower values for both WVTR and moisture absorption than other blends. The solubility of the blend films was lower than that of neat starch film which also confirmed the strong intramolecular attraction between ST and KGM.
Review of direct‐drive radial flux wind turbine generator mechanical design
Authors: Stander Johan N. , Venter Gerhard , Kamper Maarten J.
Published: August 2011

The direct‐drive radial flux synchronous generator is considered as the modern wind turbine drive train. Both the electrically (e.g., Enercon) and permanent magnet (PM; e.g., Siemens) excited direct‐drive generators are gaining popularity on the market today. Compared with the matured geared counterpart, the electrically excited direct‐drive generator is heavier and more expensive but more reliable per unit capacity. The PM‐excited generator is expensive, is simpler in electromechanical design, has a high power‐to‐weight ratio, and yields a higher energy conversion efficiency than its electrically excited equivalent. The PM generator technology has the potential to yield the highest energy‐to‐cost ratio. However, standardization of this direct‐drive generator parts/subassemblies may overcome the existing cost barrier. Most current literature focuses on PM generator wind turbine technology, specifically on generator energy conversion optimization, and the scalability of technologies to capacities in access of 5 MW. Strangely, PM generator's mass and cost reductions through optimized structural design incorporating manufacturing, transportation, and installation constraints are less studied. This paper solely focuses on the mechanical and structural design aspects of large radial flux synchronous PM generators specific to direct‐drive wind turbines. Generator topologies such as the common iron‐cored and unconventional air‐cored generator are discussed. However, design considerations specific to the iron‐cored generator topology are studied. The design considerations investigated involve the geometries and the configurations of rotor/stator active and inactive structures, the interfaces, and the conductor/PM mounting methods. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
RNA toxins: mediators of stress adaptation and pathogen defense
Authors: Zhabokritsky Alice , Kutky Meherzad , Burns Lydia A. , Karran Rajita A. , Hudak Katalin A.
Published: August 2011

RNA toxins are a group of enzymes primarily synthesized by bacteria, fungi, and plants that either cleave or depurinate RNA molecules. These proteins may be divided according to their RNA substrates: ribotoxins are nucleases that cleave ribosomal RNA (rRNA), ribosome inactivating proteins are glycosidases that remove a base from rRNA, messenger RNA (mRNA) interferases are nucleases that cleave mRNAs, and anticodon nucleases cleave transfer RNAs (tRNAs). These modifications to the RNAs may substantially alter gene expression and translation rates. Given that some of these enzymes cause cell death, it has been suggested that they function mainly in defense, either to kill competing cells or to elicit suicide and thereby limit pathogen spread from infected cells. Although good correlations have been drawn between their enzymatic functions and toxicity, recent work has shown that some RNA toxins cause apoptosis in the absence of damage to RNA and that defense against pathogens can be achieved without host cell death. Moreover, a decrease in cellular translation rate, insufficient to cause cell death, allows some organisms to adapt to stress and environmental change. Although ascribing effects observed in vitro to the roles of these toxins in nature has been challenging, recent results have expanded our understanding of their modes of action, and emphasized the importance of these toxins in development, adaptation to stress and defense against pathogens. WIREs RNA 2011 2 890–903 DOI: 10.1002/wrna.99

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein–RNA Interactions: Functional Implications

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability
Sustaining the Utilization and High Quality Implementation of Tested and Effective Prevention Programs Using the Communities That Care Prevention System
Authors: Fagan Abigail A. , Hanson Koren , Briney John S. , David Hawkins J.
Published: August 2011

This paper describes the extent to which communities implementing the Communities That Care (CTC) prevention system adopt, replicate with fidelity, and sustain programs shown to be effective in reducing adolescent drug use, delinquency, and other problem behaviors. Data were collected from directors of community‐based agencies and coalitions, school principals, service providers, and teachers, all of whom participated in a randomized, controlled evaluation of CTC in 24 communities. The results indicated significantly increased use and sustainability of tested, effective prevention programs in the 12 CTC intervention communities compared to the 12 control communities, during the active phase of the research project when training, technical assistance, and funding were provided to intervention sites, and 2 years following provision of such resources. At both time points, intervention communities also delivered prevention services to a significantly greater number of children and parents. The quality of implementation was high in both conditions, with only one significant difference: CTC sites were significantly more likely than control sites to monitor the quality of implementation during the sustainability phase of the project.
Mixed Micellization of Sodium Dodecylbenzene Sulfonate with Polyoxyethylene Lauryl Ether Surfactants (POLE4 and POLE23) in n‐Butanol Aqueous Solution
Authors: Park In Jung , Lee Byung Hwan
Published: August 2011

The values of critical micelle concentration and counterion binding constant for the mixed micellizations of sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (DBS) with polyoxyethylene(4) lauryl ether (POLE4) and polyoxyethylene(23) lauryl ether (POLE23) in aqueous solution of n‐butanol at 25 °C were determined as a function of the overall mole fraction of DBS by using the electric conductivity and the surface tension methods. Various thermodynamic parameters were calculated and analyzed for the mixed micellization of DBS/POLE4 and DBS/POLE23 systems by means of the equations derived from the nonideal mixed micellar model. The results show that DBS/POLE23 mixed system has a greater deviation from the ideal model than DBS/POLE4 mixed system. These deviations of thermodynamic parameters for both mixed systems become greater with the addition and concentration increase of n‐butanol.
Traumatic subdural hematoma in the lumbar spine
Authors: Song Jenn‐Yeu , Chen Yu‐Hao , Hung Kuang‐Chen , Chang Ti‐Sheng
Published: August 2011

Traumatic spinal subdural hematoma is rare and its mechanism remains unclear. This intervention describes a patient with mental retardation who was suffering from back pain and progressive weakness of the lower limbs following a traffic accident. Magnetic resonance imaging of the spine revealed a lumbar subdural lesion. Hematoma was identified in the spinal subdural space during an operation. The muscle power of both lower limbs recovered to normal after surgery. The isolated traumatic spinal subdural hematoma was not associated with intracranial subdural hemorrhage. A spinal subdural hematoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of spinal cord compression, especially for patients who have sustained spinal trauma. Emergency surgical decompression is usually the optimal treatment for a spinal subdural hematoma with acute deterioration and severe neurological deficits.
GEOMETRIC STRUCTURE IN THE TEMPERED DUAL OF SLℓ(F): TORAL CASE
Authors: CHAO KUOK FAI
Published: August 2011

We investigate the tempered representations derived from the principal series of SLℓ(F) and their geometric structure. In particular, we give the parameterization for special representations and prove the tempered part of the Aubert–Baum–Plymen conjecture for the toral cases of SLℓ(F).
Study of potential cardioprotective effects ofGanoderma lucidum(Lingzhi): results of a controlled human intervention trial
Authors: Chu Tanya T. W. , Benzie Iris F. F. , Lam Christopher W. K. , Fok Benny S. P. , Lee Kenneth K. C. , Tomlinson Brian
Published: August 2011

Previous studies have suggested that Lingzhi (Ganoderma lucidum) has antioxidant effects and possibly beneficial effects on blood pressure, plasma lipids and glucose, but these have not been confirmed in subjects with mild hypertension or hyperlipidaemia. The objective of the present study was to assess the cardiovascular, metabolic, antioxidant and immunomodulatory responses to therapy with Lingzhi in patients with borderline elevations of blood pressure and/or cholesterol in a controlled cross-over trial. A total of twenty-six patients received 1·44 g Lingzhi daily or matching placebo for 12 weeks in a randomised, double-blind, cross-over study with placebo-controlled run-in and cross-over periods. Body weight, blood pressure, metabolic parameters, urine catecholamines and cortisol, antioxidant status and lymphocyte subsets were measured after each period. Lingzhi was well tolerated and data from twenty-three evaluable subjects showed no changes in BMI or blood pressure when treated with Lingzhi or placebo. Plasma insulin and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance were lower after treatment with Lingzhi than after placebo. TAG decreased and HDL-cholesterol increased with Lingzhi but not with placebo in the first treatment period, but significant carry-over effects prevented complete analysis of these parameters. Urine catecholamines and cortisol, plasma antioxidant status and blood lymphocyte subsets showed no significant differences across treatments. Results indicate that Lingzhi might have mild antidiabetic effects and potentially improve the dyslipidaemia of diabetes, as shown previously in some animal studies. Further studies are desirable in patients with hyperglycaemia.
Breast-feeding and later risk of CVD and obesity: evidence from randomised trials
Authors: Fewtrell Mary S.
Published: August 2011

The relationship between breast-feeding and later cardiovascular health has been investigated in randomised trials and observational studies. This review focuses on randomised control trials, regarded as the ‘gold standard’ in establishing causal relationships between interventions and outcomes. Since it is not ethical to randomise healthy term infants to be breast- or formula-fed, only two randomised control trials have examined effects of breast-feeding on later health. In one randomised control trial, preterm infants randomised to receive banked donor breast milk had significantly lower blood pressure (BP), more favourable plasma lipid profile and reduced leptin resistance at age of 13–15 years compared with those who were fed preterm formula; with a dose–response relationship between the proportion of human milk and later outcomes. In contrast, a cluster-randomised control trial of a breast-feeding promotion intervention in healthy term infants (Promotion of Breast-feeding Intervention Trial study) found no effect of the intervention on adiposity or BP at 6 years, despite increased incidence, duration and exclusivity of breast-feeding. Potential explanations for the discrepancy between the two studies include: (i) beneficial effects of breast milk on cardiovascular health might be confined to preterm infants; (ii) effects on cardiovascular outcomes may not manifest until adolescence, a concept supported by other studies; (iii) if the underlying mechanism for the effect of breast-feeding on later cardiovascular outcome is slower early growth; a concept supported by data from animal models, human observational studies and now experimental studies in human subjects; it is plausible that differences in early growth between groups in the Promotion of Breast-feeding Intervention Trial were insufficient to produce a detectable effect on these outcomes.
Assessment of the underestimation of childhood diarrhoeal disease burden in Israel
Authors: ZIV T. , HEYMANN A. D. , AZURI J. , LESHNO M. , COHEN D.
Published: August 2011

We determined the extent by which mandatory reporting on isolates of Shigella and Salmonella underestimates the burden of diarrhoeal diseases in individuals aged <17 years in Israel and examined paediatricians' knowledge, attitudes and practices related to patient visits with diarrhoeal diseases. Sources of data were a nationwide population-based telephone survey for presence of diarrhoeal diseases, Maccabi Healthcare Services databases and a mail survey among its paediatricians. Monte Carlo simulation and rate estimates for all stages, from visit to physician to reporting on a culture-confirmed case of shigellosis or salmonellosis, were used to determine the underestimation factor. Of 1492 children, 5·7% reported a diarrhoeal episode during the 2 weeks prior to interview. The rate of visiting a physician with and without fever was 86% and 16%, respectively. A stool culture was performed for around 20% of patients and the isolation rates were 7·1% for Shigella and 2·1% for Salmonella. Paediatricians (n=214) ranked very young age of patient and the complaint ‘bloody diarrhoea’ as the most important determinants. We estimated that one reported isolate of Shigella or Salmonella represented 152 diarrhoeal episodes of all aetiologies. This estimate is important for further assessments of the true burden of diarrhoeal diseases.
A MODEL PROGRAMME FOR THE PRESERVATION AND GENETIC IMPROVEMENT OF THE SAHIWAL BREED IN INDIA
Authors: Nagarcenkar R.
Published: August 2011

Eight institutional herds in northern India with a breedable female population of about 750 are cooperating in a progeny testing programme for improvement of milk production in the Sahiwal breed.
RUMINANT LIVESTOCK GENETIC RESOURCES IN CYPRUS
Authors: Constantinou A.
Published: August 2011

Friesian cattle, Chios sheep and Damascus goats have become dominant livestock breeds in Cyprus. Chios sheep were found to be superior to the indigenous Cyprus FatTailed and the imported Awassi with respect to precocity, fertility and prolificacy. Awassi performed very well with regard to milk yield and lamb viability. Crossbreds were more or less intermediate. Crosses of Chios with Cyprus Fat-Tailed have contributed substantially to the improvement of milk and meat production from sheep in the country.

Damascus goats are very good in litter size and milk yield; a specific strain of the indigenous goat also appears to be a valuable genotype.
STANDARD DE LA BENI AHSEN RACE OVINE MAROCAINE EN PERIL
Authors: Bourfia Mohamed
Published: August 2011

The standard of the breed has been drawn up on the basis of the available literature and of direct observations made on the only flock of registered animals. It is hoped that the programme for the conservation of this breed will now be launched.
THE HUNGARIAN RACKA
Authors: Bodó I.
Published: August 2011

The origin, history and development of the Racka breed is described. This oldest of Central-European sheep breed dominated the Hungarian scene from the early 14th century to the late 1800s. To day not more than 4000 sheep exist. The author describes the live statistics and production data of the breed as well a some recent immunogenetic research results and conservation information.
POPULATION CHARACTERISTICS OF WATER BUFFALOES IN GREEK WETLANDS
Authors: Georgoudis A. , Ligda Ch. , Boyazoglu J.
Published: August 2011

The present study was carried out with the aim of proposing the preservation of buffaloes not only as productive livestock, but also as a part of the diversity of the Greek wetlands. The total buffalo total population in Greece was in the late 40's over 100 000 animals. At present, only a few hundred animals are found in four Ramsar wetland sites in Macedonia and Thrace. This small population is threatened with immediate extinction because of the rapidly changing rural socioeconomic conditions and the expansion of cultivated fields in the old marshiands. Furthermore, consumers are rapidly losing contact with buffaloes and their products.
LES RACES D'ANIMAUX ELEVES EN MAUIRITANIE
Authors: Mamoudou Kane
Published: August 2011

Mauritania is a major livestock country with a population of 1 050 000 camels, l 200 000 cattle and 8 500 000 small ruminants. There is also an important population of equines. While the herd/flock structures and zootechnical statistics of the animal sector are not well 1<nown, there is an important annual consumption of milk (0.5 kg/inhabitant/per day) and meat ( 35 kg/ person/year). The evolution of the cattle population density and movements is conditioned by the availability of grazing and the density of watering points. The cattle belong mainly to two groups: the Peulh zebu exclusively linked to the Peulh tribes and the Maure zebu of Sahel. Both are phenotypically easily distinguishable breeds. There are three distinct sheep populations, the shorthaired Maure of the Southern Saharan region, the longhaired Maure on the frontier of Mali and the sheep kept by the shepherds of Peulh tradition. There are three distinct goat types: the very adaptable Sahel goat found all over the country (nomadic, transhuming and sedentary); the so-called Spanish goat found in small numbers in the North of the country and the smallbodied Dioungy (15–20 kg) mainly found in the Southeast. The camel population can be classified into the shorter type (1.85–1.90 m high) found in the Centre and Southern regions and the Regeuibi or Sahel Dromadaire (2.0–2.1 m high) found in the North and East. The author describes also shortly the local horses (Barbe and arab) and poultry genetic resources.
WATER BUFFALO AND YAK PRODUCTION IN CHINA
Authors: Huai' Qiu , Jun' Leo
Published: August 2011

This article introduces the water buffalo and yak populations of China and their production, it feels in the Chinese animal genetic resources pictures: two articles published in AGRI No. 9 on the Sheep Genetic Resources and the Wenling Humped and Red Cattle of China; the articles on goat breeds in this number of AGRI and the cattle production survey published in World Animal Review No. 3/ 1993. The authors discuss in this article the types, characteristics and distribution of the Chinese water buffalo population (2 220 000 animals); they also present the animals work, meat and milk performances and the crossbreeding experimentation to date with Murrah and Nili-Ravi bulls. The Chinese yak populations are described with an in depth presentation of adaptability and production performance information.
GENETIC IMPROVEMENT OF DUAL PURPOSE CATTLE IN LATIN AMERICA
Authors: Vaccaro Lucía , López Delia
Published: August 2011

In June 1994 a group of Latin American geneticists met in Venezuela to discuss the current state of knowledge and priorities for research in the genetic improvement of dual purpose populations. The group also included specialists in the fields of economics, extensionand production systems, so that the views of the geneticists were constantly confronted with the practical realities of the field. This paper summarizes the conclusions and recommendations of the group. The bibliography provides a list of key references which cover the majority of the scientific evidence upon which the conclusions are based. The two mainconclusions arrived at concerned education and information dissemination: i) an unacceptably wide gap exists between current knowledge on genetic (as well as other) aspects of dual purpose cattle and the teaching curricula of most institutions of higher education in the region. There is an urgent need to introduce up-to-date information on this topic into the education system at all levels. ü) A serious effort should be made regionally to increase the number and quality of scientific and extension publications in this area, and to encourage the exchange of information between research workers.
NATIVE CATTLE AND HORSE BREEDS IN ESTONIA
Authors: Teinberg R , Kalamees K. , Kallaste A.
Published: August 2011

The authors describe the history, evolution and actual situation of Estonia's two only remaining autochthonous breeds of farm animal namely the Estonian Native Cattle (577 cows in milk production in 1992) and the Estonian Native Horse (271 purebred horses). This is actually mainly found in the island of Saaremaa, where a nucleus of 211 purebred horses exists. The interest in the Estonian Native Cattle breed is growing since the creation in 1989 of an active Breeders' Association and many farmers applying less intensive production systems and farm management techniques prefer now this breed to the more productive Black and White and Estonian Red cattle. The situation of the Estonian Native Horse is much more fragile, as a clear breeding and conservation programme is needed to save this unique genetic material.
DESCRIPTION DE CERTAINES POPULATIONS TRADITIONNELLES DE CAPRINS D'ALBANIE: PERFORMANCES LAITIERES ET CROISSANCE DANS LES NOYAUX DE RACE EN MILIEUX DIFFICILES
Authors: Kume K. , Bajrami Z.
Published: August 2011

The authors describe in this article the characteristics of eight distinct Albanian goat populations that have been managed and bred under what can be considered regional isolates for many generations; from the plain of Shkodra (± I50 m from sea level) to the hillsides of Vlora (± 350 m) and the high mountains of Tropoja (± 1 400 m). The great variability of conformation and average milked yield per lactation (from around 100 kg for the Dukat breed up to 360 kg for the Relipoje) and the daily weight gain is presented and discussed by the authors.
LE POINT SUR LES RESSOURCES GENETIQUES EN MATIERE D'ELEVAGE AU BURKINA FASO
Authors: Nianogo A. J. , Sanfo R. , Kondombo S. D. , Neya S. B.
Published: August 2011

RESUME

Le Burkina Faso, avec plus de 11 millions de petits ruminants et près de 4 millions de bovins 2 (MAE, 1990) pour un territoire essentiellement sahélien de 274 00 km, est un pays exportateur de bétail. On estime la contribution des produits du bétail à 27% de la valeur de l'ensemble des produits agricoles. L'élevage occupe donc une place de choix dans les activités de la population. Avec le dernier recensement de 1989 (MAE, 1990), on connaît à peu prèsles effectifs du cheptel; cependant, on peut estimer que peu de travaux ont porté sur la description des races locales. Ces travaux sont surtout ceux de Doutressoulle (1947), Dumas et Raymond (1975), et Bourzat (1979).Les données présentées ici proviennent donc essentiellement des sources suscitées; pour certains aspects (taux de croissance) les chiffres proviennent de la cellule statistique du Ministère Délégué aux Ressources Animales (MDCRA, 1991) et de l'Etude prospective du sous-secteur élevage (MAE, 1991).
SITUATION OF INBREEDING IN A RETINTO POPULATION
Authors: Serrano I. , Mayer M. , Rodero A. , Jimenez J. M.
Published: August 2011

The degree of inbreeding was studied for a subpopulation of the beef cattle breed Retintofrom the Cadiz Province in Andalusia (Spain). The pedigree information from 492 female and 25 male breeding animals was analyzed. On the basis of the available information, only the current inbreeding, that is the inbreeding with consideration of three ancestral generations, could be calculated. While close inbreeding is purposely avoided with the bulls, it is of great importance in cows. The average coefficient of inbreeding for cows born inthe years 1982 to 1987 was o 2.35 /;o, although in the great-grandparent generation only 55% of the ancestors were known. Inbreeding was discovered in 17.7% of the cows; 5.8%of the cows had an inbreeding coefficient of 25%. The rate of inbreeding per generation is very high in comparison with other beef cattle breeds and above all in comparison with dual purpose cattle. Because of the manner in which the bulls are used, also considerablenon-current inbreeding has to be expected.
FREQUENCE DES ALLELES DE LA CASEINE αS1', EN RACE POITEVINE
Authors: Ricordeau G. , Mahe M. F. , Amigues Y. , Grosclaude F. , Manfredi E.
Published: August 2011

RESUME

Le polymorphisme de la caséine a, a été étudié en race Poitevine, dans les7 élevages au contrôle laitier, sur 388 chèvreset 28 boucs présents en décembre 1993. Chez les chèvres, la fréquence des allèles “forts”en caséineas, est de 0,04 pour A, de 0,36 pour B et de 0,01 pour l'allèle C présent dans un seul élevage; la fréquence de l'allèle “intermédiaire” E est de 0,48 et celle de l'allèle “faible” F de 0,11. Cette race de petit effectif, traditionnellement élevée pour ses qualités fromagères dans la région Poitou-Charentes, se caractérise par une fréquence élevée du variant B, et l'existence de 3 allèles de type B (B1,B2et B3). L'allèle B, le plus fréquent (q =0,21) est l'allèle originel de l'espèce caprine, donc le niveau“fort”(Grosclaude et al., 1994), ce qui confirme l'ancienneté de la race Poitevine. Chez les boucs les fréquences sont peu différentes, mais les risques de dérive génétique sont importants chez les éleveurs utilisant 1 ou 2 boucs et dans le cas d'IA avec un nombre limité de boucs.
BHADAWARI BUFFALOES IN INDIA
Authors: Pundir R. K. , Vij P. K. , Singh Ran Vir , Nivsarkar A. E.
Published: August 2011

Bhadawari buffaloes are reputed for high milk fat and are found in the Agra & Etawah districts of Uttar Pradesh and the Bhind & Morena districts of Madhya Pradesh. Information on the status, management practices, morphological characteristics, body measurements and performance of the Bhadawari breed were recorded from its breeding tract. Animals true to the breed are copper in colour and have a white ring on the lower side of the neck. The population of this breed is declining at a fast pace and efforts are needed for its conservation. Strategies for its improvement and conservation are also discussed.
REPOBLAMIENTO Y BIOECOLOGIA DE LA VICUÑA SILVESTRE EN LA PROVINCIA DE JUJUY, ARGENTINA
Authors: Canedi A. A. , Pasini P. S.
Published: August 2011

Los autores presentan los esfuerzos realizados para la salvaguardia de la vicuña silvestre, así como las distintas metodologías empleadas para el censo (mediante: a) censos totales; b) censos por muestreo y a través de transectas lineales; y c) censos estratificados) junto con su caracterización biológica y ecológica. Estas características se basan principalmente en una mayor dimensión respecto a la subespecie a la que pertenecen (vicugna vicugna vicugna); por otra parte, la raza posee una lana con buenas características. Este animal está bien adaptado a su ambiente, con poco dimorfismo entre sexos y con un comportamiento social y sexual particular. Dado que se trata de un animal protegido, las poblaciones campesinas han necesitado autorizaciones particulares para la explotación de su lana.
GROWING INTEREST IN THE WATER BUFFALO: A SHORT BIBLIOGRAPHIC UPDATE
Authors: Boyazoglu J.
Published: August 2011

When FAO published a major work in 1974 (Ross Cockrill), reviewing for the first time the then existing information relating to the water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis), Sir John Grenfell E Crawford, the Vice Chancellor of the Australian National University, introduced it by unr' rlining that “among all farming livestock which science had neglected, the domestic buffalo served as an outstanding example of genera failure to recognise and exploit its production potential” Since then a world-wide interest has developed in this species, not only as a purveyor of anima protein for human consumption, but also because of a growing interest in the diversification of products of animal origin and the manufacture of typical regiona products as well as a variety of renewed uses of these animals. Furthermore, the strong image linking the buffalo with nature and the environment's ecological equilibrium, particularly in some of the world's more marginal lands, shows this species as one of the most viable alternatives of intensive cattle husbandry systems which are more and more under accusation in an environment-conscious society.
GENETIC AND PHENOTYPIC PROFILES OF ENDANGERED ANDALUSIAN SHEEP AND GOAT BREEDS
Authors: Rodero E. , de la Haba M.R. , Rodero A. , Herrera M.
Published: August 2011

The Grazalema Merino and Lebrija Churro Sheep and the Andalusian White and Andalusian Black goat breeds, previously chosen as priority breeds in need of conservation, were considered as having priority for this study. In order to define the genetic as well as the phenotypic profiles the following characters were used: head profile, ear size, ear orientation, ear consistency, horns, pigmentation of mucous, hoofs, udder, ñneness of fur, hair or wool, length of hair or wool, presence of wattles and goatee bear, supernumerary nipples., udder shape, orientation and pigmentation of nipple, and peculiarities of coat. The allelic frequencies for each system were calculated to obtain the genetic profiles of each breed. In the two goat breeds and in the Grazalema Merino breed, the majority of the loci were genetically in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, but this was not true of the Lebrijan Churro breed which seems to indicate that the latter was either subjected to natural or artificial selection for these genes or crosses with outside breeds had taken place. The profiles of the breeds were compared with foreign breeds considered traditional or unmodified by man. The profile of the Andalusian White has already been studied by Rodero and they reached the conclusion that this breed can be considered traditional, completing the studies made on other breeds from the Mediterranean area. The data on the Andalusian Black seems to indicate that this breed might be considered traditional or subtraditional with strong polymorphism in most of its characters. Although less markedly than in the latter breed, the same is true of the Lebrijan Churro. In this breed the deñning characters of Archaism fit well within those common to an archaic breed. The Grazalema Merino is more standardised than the above mentioned not as ñxed than the precocious ones.
REVUE DE LA SITUATION DES RACES D'ANIMAUX DOMESTIQUES DE COTE D'IVOIRE
Authors: Yapi-Gnaore C. V. , Oya B. A. , Ouattara Zana
Published: August 2011

RESUME

L'article présente une révision intéressante de l'état actuel des ressources génétiques animales en Cóte d'Ivoire. Les cinq espéces principales (bovins, ovins, caprins, porcins et volailles) sont présentées. I1 existe trois groupe de bovins autochtones: le Baoulé, le N'Dama et le Lagune; les deux derniers sont considérés trypanotolérants. Le Baoulé posséde une population de presque 500 000 animaux et le N'Dama quelques 100 000, tandis que la population de Lagune de petite taille est de moins de 1000. I1 existe également u.ne population transhumante formée de zébus croisés (Baoulé x zébu) ainsi que de N'Dama croisés avec des German Fleckvieh ou des French Abondance. La race d'ovin plus répandue est la fameuse Djallonké (environ 1200 000 animaux) que l'on rencontre aussi bien dans les foréts que dans les savannes. L'Institut des Sciences a initié un programme de sélection en 1980 qui se poursuit actuellement. Dans le cas des chévres la seule race présente est la naine de l'Afrique de l'ouest, appelée aussi Djallonké, avec une population de un peu moins de 1 000 000. Les secteurs porcins et de volailles sont dominés par la présence de races locales et de quelques croisements avec des races importées. L'article présente une description approfondie des systémes de production traditionnels et de leur évolution; il donne également des indications sur les normes de conservations existantes pour les races N'Dama, Baoulé et Djallonké.
Conservation of the Tswana cattle breed in Botswana
Authors: Mpofu Ntombizakhe
Published: August 2011

The Tswana cattle breed is indigenous to Botswana. Its popularity and numbers in the national herd is declining due to crossbreeding. This paper presents results of work done so far to characterise the breed for milk and beef production and describes the current breed conservation program. Suggestions on more characterisation work and improvement on the conservation program are given.
Conservation de la diversité des ressources génétiques animales dans les pays d'Afrique francophone sub-saharienne
Authors: Planchenault D. , Boutonnet J. P.
Published: August 2011

A la suite de la conférence des Nations Unies sur l'environnement et le développement (CNUCED, Rio 7 juin 1992) et la convention globale sur la biodiversité, la FAO a programmé neuf missions à travers le monde pour identifier des projets pouvant contribuer à la conservation des ressources génétiques des animaux domestiques. Le présent papier expose le résultat de la mission concernant les pays d'Afrique francophone sub-saharienne. L'approche des races est fondée sur la prise en compte des contraintes du milieu, des objectifs de l'élevage, des marchés des produits et des structures sociales impliquées. L'inventaire fait ressortir la grande diversité des races d'animaux de ferme, liée à la diversité des modèles d'élevage et de leurs objectifs. Les races sont mal caractérisées, leurs effectifs sont mal connus. Les types génétiques sont adaptés à des modèles d'élevage en pleine évolution sous l'influence des marchés des produits et de la pression démographique. Les élevages intensifs (villageois ou industriels) se développent plus vite que les élevages extensifs (pastoraux ou de basse-cour). Il en résulte que les caractères génétiques privilégiés par les éleveurs évoluent profondément. Il est donc nécessaire de mieux caractériser les races d'animaux de ferme et de rechercher les critères d'adaptation du cheptel à une exploitation plus intensive et mieux orientée.
Zootechnical description of the creole goat of the Oaxaca region (Mexico)
Authors: Sierra A. , Molina A. , Delgado J. , Hernández J. , Rivera M.
Published: August 2011

This paper describes the zootechnical characteristics of the Pastoreño creole goat, representing the caprine population of the Low Mixteca region of Oaxaca State, Mexico.

These animals characteristically produce fattened goats for traditional slaughter at Christmas, to elaborate a typical dry meat product known as Chito. At present the exact individual population of this breed is not known. Those registered as Creoles in the animals census in general are known. This breed however has particular productive and morphological characteristics which make them very different from other creole caprines in the rest of the state and the country. Information on their distribution, origin, morphological characteristics, handling and productive systems is presented in this paper.
Characterisation of Indian Kathiawari horses
Authors: Pundir R. K. , Vijh R. K. , Shukla R. N. , Vyas A. S. , Bhavsar B. K. , Nivsarkar A. E.
Published: August 2011

The breeding tract of Kathiawari horses is the Saurashtra region of Gujrat, comprising of the Rajkot, Bhavnagar, Surendranagar, Junagarh and Amreli districts. Kathiawari horses are reared for carting, riding, sports and transportation. The breed is closely related with the Marwari breed of Rajasthan. The most predominant body colour is chestnut in Kathiawari horses and black in Marwari horses. The capital nags of the Kathiawari breed are from 14 to 14.5 HH, sound, sure footed and hardy, fast and decidedly good looking. The herd size at farmer level varied from 1 to 4. In the study an attempt has been made to note the physical characteristics and management practices for rearing these horses in the breeding tract. Body measurement of Kathiawari and Marwari horses were recorded. It was observed that Kathiawari horses had a smaller body, shorter height, smaller heart girth, ears and face than the Marwari horses. The performance of the Kathiawari breed under intensive management was studied. The average age at first fertile service, and at first foaling, herd life, total foals during lifetime, gestation period, service period and foaling interval were 1 658±79 days, 1 989±80 days, 6 499±650 days, 4.93±0.52 foals, 333.58±1.76 days, 257.23±46.49 days and 597.76±49.70 days, respectively.
Indigenous domestic turkeys of Oaxaca and Quintana Roo, Mexico
Authors: Mallia J.G.
Published: August 2011

The presence and role of indigenous turkeys in Oaxaca and Quintana Roo, Mexico, were investigated by means of on-site assessment and an orally administered questionnaire. Questions included breed characteristics, uses, management conditions, advantages and limitations of the breed. An indigenous breed of turkey in Oaxaca and Quintana Roo was described. A strong interest in the raising and commerce of turkeys in Oaxaca was noted, however in Quintana Roo substantial reductions in numbers of turkeys have occurred over the last two decades. Mortalities of turkey poults ranging from 50–100% due to a disease with symptoms compatible with Histomonas meleagridis infection were reported. This appears to be the most significant limiting factor to raising turkeys in a back-yard type of system in Oaxaca and Quintana Roo. Raising turkeys separately from chickens is probably the most effective strategy for decreasing indigenous turkey poult mortality of this type.
Realising added-value in native British breeds of beef cattle
Authors: Alderson G. L. H.
Published: August 2011

Native breeds of beef cattle in Britain have been superseded by imported breeds since the 1960s, but a changing market in the 1990s has begun to restore traditional values. The distinctive qualities of native breeds are becoming more relevant, and the White Park is a prime example of their importance. This paper makes a critical evaluation of several studies of White Park cattle that have been carried out, namely productivity in non-intensive systems of management, assessment of type and function by linear measurements, quality of product (meat), and value in crossing programmes. It concludes that breeds such as the White Park derive significant added value as a result of their native adaptability and the high quality of their beef, and that they benefit from a market driven by consumers rather than supermarkets. The use of different linear measurements is proposed, and the effective use of White Park bulls in crossing programmes is demonstrated.