bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The future for forests in heavily polluted regions.
Authors: Innes J. L. , Oleksyn J.
Published: November 2017

Air pollution has caused the degradation or loss of forests in several heavily polluted regions. In North America and Western Europe, badly affected areas are now being reclaimed. In Eastern Europe and Russia, problems continue, and affected areas are increasing. The experience gained from reclamation work in Europe and North America could usefully be applied to other regions. The greatest limitation is the availability of financial resources, with the restoration of degraded forests having low priority in many areas. Priorities need to be set for reclaiming the most affected areas. Effects-based approaches, particularly critical loads and levels, represent a suitable means by which the benefits to be gained from emission reductions can be maximized. In future, ecological risk analyses need to take into account all the possible anthropogenic impacts on forests, and should not consider pollution in isolation.
Basic genetics.
Authors: Murray B. G. , Young A. G. , Boyle T. J.
Published: November 2017

This chapter briefly outlines the structure, function and organization of plant genes and genomes and introduces the basic processes involved in the replication and recombination of the genetic material. An understanding of these processes leads to an appreciation of how they function in the transmission of biological information. Most of the processes ensure that information is transmitted unchanged from cell to cell and from parent to progeny. However, mutations, heritable alterations at the gene and chromosome levels, provide the raw material for evolutionary change in populations.
Mating systems.
Authors: Boshier D. H.
Published: November 2017

Patterns of mating vary with the reproductive biology and spatial structure of a species, and combine to influence levels and dynamics of genetic diversity. Knowledge of all aspects of a species' mating system is necessary to understand the distribution of genetic variation between individuals, gene flow within and between populations, what effect human influence may have on these and, therefore, how to best conserve and utilize this variation. This chapter covers the basic processes of tree reproductive biology (sexual systems, incompatibility mechanisms, flowering patterns, pollination processes), their integration to produce observed mating patterns in both temperate and tropical species and some of the methods of quantifying mating systems. Trees are shown to be predominantly outcrossed, but in some species a variety of conditions may lead to a degree of selfing or inbreeding owing to related matings. Abnormal levels of inbreeding may have immediate implications for seed collection, and ex situ conservation strategies, while their long term maintenance may lead to losses of diversity with longer term adaptive consequences.
Economics and conserving forest genetic diversity.
Authors: McNeely J. A. , Vorhies F.
Published: November 2017

Although biodiversity conservation may be viewed by some policy makers or stakeholders as desirable due to potential future benefits, such benefits may not be obvious to those who are most directly utilizing the forest. In some cases, market pressures and government policies drive local people to use forests unsustainably and thus to threaten forest genetic resources. Also, if conservation results in some stakeholders forgoing some immediate benefits that they would otherwise reasonably expect to enjoy, then some form of compensation for their opportunity costs might be necessary. Clearly, the conservation of biodiversity including genetic diversity involves an economic dimension. Thus, an understanding of basic economic principles is essential to any effort in conserving forest genetic resources.
Estonia: the role of contracting for private agricultural advisory services.
Authors: Loolaid Ü.
Published: November 2017

This chapter describes the development of Estonia's private and subsidized agricultural advisory services. The impact of contracting for agricultural advisory services development are discussed, as well as the improvements needed in Estonia's advisory system. Lessons for the sustainability of the advisory system are discussed as well.
Australia: contracting to prevent land degradation: Landcare, a success story.
Authors: Webb T. , Cary J. , Campbell A.
Published: November 2017

This chapter focuses on the contracting of the Tod River Catchment Salinity and Water Quality Management Project (one of the projects funded under the 'Accelerated Regional Implementation of the Natural Heritage Trust in South Australia') to the Tod River Catchment Landcare Group. The impact of the project and the sustainability and replicability of some of the changes brought about through the project are discussed.
Mali: contracting for livestock production extension with private veterinarians.
Authors: Fermet-Quinet E. , Gauthier J.
Published: November 2017

This chapter deals with the use of a network of private veterinarians to transfer information on livestock production in Mali. Types of extension contracts are described. The impact, sustainability, and replicability of contracting out are discussed as well.
USA-Illinois: contracting for precision agricultural services.
Authors: Swanson B. E. , Mohamed Samy Mohamed Samy , O'Rourke P. D.
Published: November 2017

This chapter deals with the privatization of the agricultural technology transfer system in Illinois, USA, as private sector firms and farmer cooperatives incrementally hired Certified Crop Advisers to provide technical advice on precision agriculture. The adoption of precision technology by Illinois farmers is examined. Lessons learned from Illinois' experience are discussed.
Colombia: a semi-private coffee-growers contracting system.
Authors: Rodríguez R. , Rodríguez T.
Published: November 2017

This chapter is about the technical assistance contracting arrangement entered into by two levels of government (municipal and national) and the provincial coffee growers committee, in Páramo municipality, Santander, Colombia. The impact of the contracting arrangement and the sustainability and replicability of the changes observed in the new contracting system are discussed. Lessons learned are then outlined.
Trinidad & Tobago: contracting for extension communications services - the Hibiscus Mealy Bug information campaign.
Authors: Seepersad J. , Ganpat W.
Published: November 2017

This chapter discusses the experiences of the Ministry of Agriculture in Trinidad and Tobago in using commercial mass media agencies to produce and disseminate extension messages on the identification and control of the Pink Hibiscus Mealy Bug. The impact, sustainability, and replicability of the extension arrangement are discussed, as well as the lessons learned from the case.
Prospects for sugar in the WTO and FTAA trade negotiations.
Authors: McNiel D.
Published: November 2017

This chapter speculates on what may happen to sugar in future multilateral trade negotiations under the auspices of the World Trade Organization, and during the ongoing negotiations of the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA). It also offers views on whether the Millennium Round of world trade negotiations and the FTAA negotiations will lead to real changes in US sugar policies.
Living in the shadow of a giant: a perspective from Colombia.
Authors: Pardo R. V.
Published: November 2017

This chapter looks at the distortions on the world sugar market caused by different forms of protection, mainly by the European Union and Brazil. Implications for other sugar-exporting countries like Colombia are considered.
Australia's sugar industry: operating in a free-market environment.
Authors: Sheales T. C.
Published: November 2017

This chapter provides insights into the workings of Australia's sugar industry. It also looks into the distorted market in which the industry operates, and explores the benefits that a freer trade can bring. Also presented is an overview of the evolution of Australian sugar policy, from intervention towards deregulation. Trends in sugar production, milling, refining, marketing, consumption, and trade are discussed as well. The chapter concludes with an outlook for Australian sugar.
The Indonesian sugar industry: prospects toward the twenty-first century.
Authors: Barichello R. R.
Published: November 2017

This chapter begins with a review of the situation in Indonesia's sugar industry and the changes that have taken place in the country's economic environment. It then turns to previous sugar-industry policies, policy reforms, and the profitability of sugar (especially within the island of Java). It concludes with a discussion on the most likely future of Indonesian sugar-trade flows.
The Indian sugar industry.
Authors: Ferrier G. D.
Published: November 2017

This chapter first discusses the relationship between mill sugar (made using the vacuum-pan process) and the traditional sugars (khandsari and jaggery or gur) within India. It then turns to a discussion of India's government policy on the sugar industry, which is followed by a discussion of the sugar industry's structure.
Building alliances for liberalization and reform of sugar policies globally.
Authors: Males W.
Published: November 2017

The development and raison d'être of the Global Alliance for Sugar Trade Reform and Liberalization is considered in this chapter in the context of the Cairns Group, and parallels between the Cairns Group and Global Alliance positions in the World Trade Organization negotiations are drawn. This chapter further identifies similarities between the Cairns Group and Global Alliance and the broad negotiating mandate tabled in Geneva by the USA.
U.S. sugar and alternative trade-liberalization options.
Authors: Koo W. W. W.
Published: November 2017

This chapter analyses major issues that the US sugar industry is facing, or will face in the near future. It also analyses the impacts of alternative trade liberalization policies in the USA and the EU on the US sugar industry. Special attention is given to regional competitiveness in sugar production in the USA.
Science and the poor.
Authors: Serageldin I.
Published: November 2017

This chapter examines the promise of biotechnology as an instrument of agricultural development and poverty alleviation. It also discusses the ethical issues, safety concerns, and perceived risks concerning biotechnology.
From molecular genetics to plants for the future.
Authors: Montagu M. van , Oliveira D. de , Burssens S.
Published: November 2017

The use of transgenic plants for the bioremediation of organic pollutants and heavy metals, for sustainable development is discussed. Some tools in plant biotechnology and the methods of plant genetic transformation are also discussed.
New biotechnology applications in fish.
Authors: Gardiner P. R. , Li SzeLim Li SzeLim , John G.
Published: November 2017

The present and potential applications of biotechnology in the areas of aquatic biodiversity conservation, fisheries management and aquaculture are reviewed.
Biocontrol of potato bacterial wilt in Kenya.
Authors: Smith J. , Murimi K. , Gouws R. , Saddler G. S. , Trigalet A. , Simons S.
Published: November 2017

This chapter discusses the in-country evaluation and environmental impact assessment of the application of biological control against potato bacterial wilt (caused by Ralstonia solanacearum) in Kenya.
Arid lands experience: crop improvement in dry areas.
Authors: El-Beltagy A.
Published: November 2017

This chapter discusses the traditional (direct and indirect selection) and biotechnological (molecular marker techniques, genetic transformation and functional genomics) approaches to breeding for stress tolerance in arid lands, and presents an overview of crop improvement projects supported by the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas.
Developing and marketing of a Salmonella-specific DNA diagnostic kit in Southern Africa.
Authors: Gopo J. M. , Baros E. , Ven Kent A. A.
Published: November 2017

This chapter describes the value of a Salmonella-specific DNA probe (Sal-15, 2.46 kb) in the rapid routine detection and diagnosis of Salmonella spp. in the environment, foods, beverages, feeds, water and human and veterinary disease outbreaks. The cost-effectiveness, commercial availability and benefits of this method are discussed.
Globalization and access to biotechnology-derived health care products: a view from Egypt.
Authors: Eldawy M. A.
Published: November 2017

This chapter reviews the use of biotechnology in developing drugs and foods with health claims, and some safety and ethical considerations. The role of bioinformatics, pharmacogenomics, proteomics, nanotechnology approaches, molecular modelling, customized medicine and pharming industry in drug development is described. The impact of globalization and cost of developing biotechnology-derived health care products on affordability and access of these products in Egypt is discussed.
Biotechnology: perspectives of civil society.
Authors: Gabr M.
Published: November 2017

This chapter presents the perspectives of the various sectors of the civil society on biotechnology and its applications (i.e. development of transgenic food crops, genetic determinism and biomedicine).
Scientific basis of biosafety risk assessments.
Authors: Ammann K.
Published: November 2017

This paper discusses the following topics: impact of transgene flow on agriculture and environment; gene flow of transgenic maize into mexican landraces; impact of toxic Bt transgenes in maize on nontarget insects; emerging issues on transgenics; and radiation mutation in crops.
The current situation and development priorities for grain postharvest technology in China.
Authors: Cheng ChuanXiu Cheng ChuanXiu , Li FuJun Li FuJun , Tan BengAng Tan BengAng
Published: November 2017

This paper describes the current status of China's grain postharvest technology, focusing on transport and storage. Problems encountered and the priorities in the industry are also discussed. After 20 years of reform and the opening-up policy, Chinese agriculture and the rural economy have made great achievements attracting worldwide attention. In 1999, Chinese grain production reached 508 million tonnes, accounting for almost a quarter of the world total and making China the world's leading grain-producing country. Agricultural production in China has gone from a history of long-term deficiency of the main agricultural commodities to a basic balance between supply and demand, with even some surplus in good years, and relative overproduction within certain periods, localities and seasons. In the past few years, the major concerns of the central authorities and all the governments at local level are to help farmers sell their grain and increase their incomes. At the same time as the increases in grain purchases, storage, transportation and processing ability, the provision of advanced equipment, the upgrading of the postharvest technology, as well as the training of postharvest managers and technical specialists, are also among the government's important commitments.
Host-finding ability of Lariophagus distinguendus (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), a potential natural enemy for the biological control of stored product pest beetles.
Authors: Steidle J. L. M. , Prozell S. , Schöller M.
Published: November 2017

The host-finding ability of L. distinguendus was studied. In a silo-bin and a flat storage grain box, the parasitoids were able to find and parasitize Sitophilus granarius (reared on the grains of wheat cv. Batis) located up to 4 m vertically and horizontally from the release point. This demonstrates that the host-finding ability of L. distinguendus is sufficient for the control of pests under realistic conditions of application.
Critical issues in the development and interpretation of pest monitoring programmes for food processing facilities.
Authors: Campbell J. F. , Prabhakaran S. , Schneider B. , Arbogast R. T.
Published: November 2017

Pest management in commercial food processing facilities such as flour mills continues to rely heavily on methyl bromide fumigations. The pending loss of this fumigant has triggered a great deal of interest in developing alternative strategies, but the lack of effective monitoring programmes and data on pest population trends has hampered their development. The foundation of a good monitoring programme is an understanding of pest population dynamics, spatial distribution and behaviour. Here we discuss some of the theoretical and practical issues encountered in developing a monitoring programme for the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, in commercial flour mills. The focus is on issues related to understanding pest population rebound after whole structure treatments such as fumigation. These issues are also likely to be applicable to the development of integrated pest management programmes for food processing, warehouse and retail facilities in general.
Commercialisation of a species-identifying automated stored-product insect monitoring system.
Authors: Shuman D. , Epsky N. D. , Crompton R. D.
Published: November 2017

The world's first commercially available, automated, insect-monitoring system, the Electronic Grain Probe Insect Counter (EGPIC), provides real-time data indicative of infestation levels in stored products. The "smart" grain probe circuitry analyses and transmits key components of the infrared sensor output signal that enable the central system computer to discriminate insect species and count only insects that fall through the infrared beam. When used with temperature data also provided by the probe, the number and identity of detected insects can help managers to estimate population densities and make control decisions without extraneous worker entries into grain bins. OPI Systems, Calgary, Canada, has integrated EGPIC into its StorMax automated stored-product management system to provide a tool which can help preserve grain quality while reducing fumigations, enhancing the viability of pesticide alternatives, and providing rapid and safe control-efficacy feedback.
Biology of Apanteles carpatus (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a parasitoid of tineid moths (Lepidoptera: Tineidae).
Authors: Plarre R. , Balnuweit O.
Published: November 2017

The wasp A. carpatus is a solitary koinobiont endoparasitoid of Tineola bisselliella. A. carpatus can complete development in all larval stages of T. bisselliella. However, when given a choice, older larval host stages of the webbing clothes moth are preferred for oviposition. Intraspecific competition for resources and superparasitism reduces the reproductive success of the parasitoid. Nevertheless, A. carpatus is an ideal candidate for biological control of tineid moths in households and museums.
The effect of fluctuating temperature and humidity, and aeration, on population growth of Acarus siro (L.) near the surface of a grain bulk.
Authors: Dunn J. A.
Published: November 2017

The effect of fluctuating temperature and relative humidity with and without intermittent aeration on the productivity of A. siro was tested on the surface of a 250-tonne bulk of grain. Four pipes were inserted into the grain bulk. Two of the pipes had open bases and were therefore subject to the processes of aeration (i.e. airflow, cooling etc.), whereas the other two had their bases sealed. Each pipe contained mites held within nylon-mesh bags. Ten bags were removed from each of these pipes at intervals of 1008 h (every sixth week) from 18 October 1999 until 15 May 2000. A total of 482 h of low-volume cooling, controlled by set-point thermostats, was operated during the colder winter months. The number of A. siro mites at each life stage was determined by flotation analysis and light microscopy. The results showed that during those intervals when there was most aeration for cooling (141 and 284 h) or aeration for drying (18 h) there was a significant decrease in the productivity of mites in the aerated pipes. Differences were not significant when the aeration for cooling was shorter (9 and 29 h). Temperature, relative humidity and moisture content also affected mite productivity. A rise in temperature, relative humidity and/or moisture content increased the total mite productivity, whereas a decrease in temperature, relative humidity and/or moisture content decreased total mite productivity. However, there was often an interaction between these variables.
Development of a rapid immunoassay for the detection of storage mite pests in cereals.
Authors: Dunn J. A. , Danks C. , Thind B. B. , Banks J. N. , Chambers J.
Published: November 2017

The detection of mites in grain and its derivatives by sampling and sieving is very subjective and dependent on the operator. Present alternatives are expensive or time-consuming, and do not lend themselves to "real-time" measurement or field application. To overcome this problem, we are investigating the potential of immunoassays. In this paper, we report for the first time on the sensitivity of an existing antibody to live and dead adult mites, to their different life stages and to their faeces. To overcome a lack of sensitivity in the presence of grain, we have raised new antibodies by a careful screening programme, using Acarus siro as the model species. These antibodies show very promising sensitivity and selectivity even in the presence of grain.
Space requirements of Cheyletus eruditus (Schrank) and Cheyletus malaccensis Oudemans (Acarina: Cheyletidae).
Authors: Z'dárková E. , Horák P.
Published: November 2017

Two species of predatory mite, C. eruditus and C. malaccensis, are used for the biological control of stored food mites. They are mass-reared on lettuce seed together with their prey, Acarus siro, for application in food stores. In 100 g samples of seed, there can be as many as 2000 specimens of Cheyletus sp. In an attempt to improve the culture technique, we first determined the space demands of the two predatory mites by testing them in areas of 5, 20 and 78 cm2: both species grew more numerous in the bigger space. Lettuce seed proved to be a better rearing medium than wheatgerm. Many heteromorphic males appeared in the population of C. malaccensis, regardless of the space. The maximum number of specimens per cm2 was almost identical in both species: 37.1 and 36.5 specimens/cm2 for C. eruditus and C. malaccensis, respectively. Only C. malaccensis produced heteromorphic males, with different lengths of the pedipalps; no heteromorphic males were observed in C. eruditus. The number of original virgin females influenced the number of mites in the final population. Our results can be used for perfecting mass rearing techniques for these predators.
Physical and ecological changes in insect- and fungus-induced hotspots.
Authors: Cook D. A. , Armitage D. M.
Published: November 2017

Insect- and fungus-induced hotspots were observed during 1999-2001 in field trials conducted in the UK. The insect-induced hotspot (dry grain heating) occurred in an unaerated section of a 250-tonne bulk of wheat, with a free-roaming infestation of Sitophilus granarius and Oryzaephilus surinamensis of 1 insect per 2 kg grain. Sprouting at the surface was observed in December after 12 weeks. This grain heated to 40°C at 0.5 m depth. The lateral profile showed heating spreading to 1.4 m from the core, where temperatures remained at the bulk temperature of 12°C. The heating was accompanied by a sharp 60-fold increase in O. surinamensis caught in one trap on the hotspot periphery between weeks 9 and 13. The hotspot was monitored and then cooled, using an aeration spear, four weeks later. Incubation of samples and trap records suggest a succession of species responsible for hotspot formation, starting with S. granarius as the catalyst. Fungus-induced heating (damp grain heating) occurred in unventilated wheat at 19% moisture content (m.c.), which gradually increased from 20 to nearly 30°C in two months; in wheat at 24% m.c., which rose from 25 to over 50°C in eight days; and in barley at 19% m.c., which heated from about 22 to above 40°C in five weeks. The principal fungi detected were Eurotium spp., Wallemia sebi and Penicillium spp. including P. verrucosum, with ochratoxin A being detected after heating on wheat at 24% m.c. and barley at 19% m.c. These observations have relevance in the context of grain being held before drying due to harvest backlogs and point to the importance of aeration.
Kinetics of diatomaceous earth (Fossil-Shield®) uptake by Callosobruchus maculatus (F.) (Coleoptera: Bruchidae).
Authors: Prasantha B. D. R. , Reichmuth C. , Strumpf T.
Published: November 2017

Fossil-Shield is an industrial diatomaceous earth (DE) which is recommended for grain and surface applications. C. maculatus, the cowpea weevil, picks up the DE particles as it moves through the dust-treated grains. Mn+2 ion was used as a tracer element to detect the amount of DE accumulation on the bodies of male and female insects over 4 days at dosages of 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg. The amount of Mn+2 in the accumulated DE was analysed by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (ICP). Before the Mn+2 was used as a tracer, the natural Mn+2 content of the insects' bodies was evaluated. The kinetics of DE uptake were analysed using three different types of kinetics models. The kinetics of Fossil-Shield uptake by a cowpea weevil can be determined more precisely by using the two compartment model than by using the one- or three-compartment models. Therefore, it can be concluded that DE uptake occurs as a two-site reaction. First, pick-up and loss happens quite rapidly. Second, picked-up DE particles are incorporated into the cuticle lipid layer. It is also significant that Fossil-Shield is effectively adherent to mung bean kernels to about 90% (wt/wt).
The granary weevil Sitophilus granarius is suppressed by the parasitoid Lariophagus distinguendus Förster (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae).
Authors: Reppchen A. , Schöller M. , Prozell S. , Adler C. , Reichmuth C. , Steidle J.
Published: November 2017

The pteromalid wasp L. distinguendus is a promising candidate for the biological control of S. granarius and other stored product pest beetles. Therefore, the ability of L. distinguendus to suppress population growth of S. granarius was examined over a period of 7 months. Ten female weevils were released in glass jars containing 2 kg of wheat. For 5 weeks, 0, 2, 5, 10, 20 or 50 parasitoids were added to the jars weekly and the numbers of weevils emerging were counted after 12, 16, 20, 24 and 28 weeks. Regardless of the number of parasitoids added, the population size of S. granarius was reduced in the presence of L. distinguendus by 79-94% over the whole period. This indicates that L. distinguendus is able to significantly suppress the population growth of stored product pest weevils.
Screening of North American species of Trichogramma Westwood (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae) for control of the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae).
Authors: Schöller M. , Fields P.
Published: November 2017

Information on Nearctic Trichogramma species was compiled to find candidates for the biological control of stored product moths, especially the Indian meal moth P. interpunctella. We evaluated experimentally 4 species of Trichogramma native to North America: T. deion, T. minutum (2 strains), T. pretiosum (2 strains), T. sibiricum, and the Palaearctic introduction T. brassicae as candidates. Previous studies indicated that the Indian meal moth is least-preferred among the stored-product moths, so we used this species as target host. We performed the indirect Hassan-test for host preference between the mass-rearing host Ephestia kuehniella and the target host P. interpunctella at 15°C. The preparation of Trichogramma spp. in Canada balsam is described.
The use of light traps for attracting stored-product insects in a rice mill and paddy seed stores.
Authors: Nualvatna K. , Makathan N. , Chavapradit C. , Kitkuandee K. , Uraichuan J.
Published: November 2017

Studies on the use of light traps for attracting stored product insects were conducted in a rice mill and in paddy seed stores. In these stores the light traps were placed near the products. Light traps with 6 W blacklight-blue alone could effectively attract Angoumois grain moth (Sitotroga cerealella), lesser grain borer (Rhyzopertha dominica), maize weevil (Sitophilus zeamais) and red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum). When the light traps with blacklight-blue, fluorescent lamps, green colour incandescent lamps, and blacklight lamps were operated simultaneously in a store containing paddy seeds, there was no significant difference between these three kinds of light in attracting maize weevil, but Angoumois grain moth was attracted more to blacklight-blue and blacklight than to the green incandescent lamp. The lesser grain borer preferred the blacklight to the blacklight-blue and the green incandescent lamps. In the experiments, only adult insects were caught in the traps.
Learning from museums - IPM in practice.
Authors: Pinniger D. , Child B.
Published: November 2017

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) has been adopted and has achieved considerable success in the heritage sector. Museums, archives and historic houses are vulnerable to the ravages of insect pests. In the past, regular treatments with residual toxicants and fumigants such as methyl bromide and ethylene oxide were used to control pests and protect objects from their attack. Museum staff recognized the risk of chemical contamination and damage to objects, and developed alternative strategies for preventing and controlling pests. The key to successful IPM in the heritage sector is a pest monitoring programme using insect traps. In addition, a high standard of housekeeping is as important to the heritage sector as to the food industry. IPM programmes have produced marked improvements in environments and care of collections as an added bonus to pest prevention. The most important contribution by the museum world to IPM has been in the development of alternatives to fumigation. Low temperature regimes are now widely used by many museums around the world for treatment of textiles, natural history specimens and ethnographic material. High temperature regimes have been developed using sophisticated humidity-controlled chambers or simple solar hot boxes. Successful carbon dioxide treatments have been carried out, often on large and difficult objects. The safest treatment for objects and staff is nitrogen anoxia using both cylinder nitrogen and oxygen scavengers. The heritage sector has demonstrated that IPM programmes enable collections and buildings to be cared for in ways that are both safe and effective. An added bonus in times of restricted budgets is that IPM programmes make much more effective use of limited human and cash resources.
Evaluation of a multi-attractant lure on the capture of several stored-product beetle species.
Authors: Athanassiou C. G. , Kavallieratos N. G. , Eliopoulos P. A. , Palyvos N. E. , Casagrande E. , Buchelos C. T.
Published: November 2017

The introduction of a multi-attractant lure (a mixture of natural plant extracts) inside perforated traps (pitfall lure) was assessed for its efficiency in trapping Coleoptera adults infesting stored cereals. The experiments were carried out in two horizontal-type store rooms located in Central Greece. The first store room contained bulked wheat; control traps and traps containing the attractant at levels of 100, 200 and 500 mg were placed just below the grain surface, in five replicates. The second store room contained bulked maize, and the attractant levels examined were 500, 1000 and 2000 mg. The traps were inspected for captured insects at weekly intervals for nine weeks. On each trap-check date, grain samples were taken adjacent to the trapping location; these samples were also examined for insects. In the first store room the most abundant beetle species were Tribolium castaneum, Tribolium confusum, Oryzaephilus surinamensis and Rhyzopertha dominica. Significantly more adults were found in the traps than as the samples for T. castaneum, T. confusum and O. surinamensis. Generally, more adults were found in the traps containing 500 mg of the attractant, except on a few occasions, but no significant differences were recorded between levels. Additionally, after the third week, captures were not significantly different from the control traps. On the other hand, for R. dominica the samples contained similar adult numbers to the traps, despite the use of the attractant. In the second store room, the most abundant species were Sitophilus oryzae, O. surinamensis and R. dominica. As above, significant differences in species abundance were recorded among treatments, with the exception of R. dominica. Traps holding 1000 mg and 2000 mg of attractant contained significantly more S. oryzae and O. surinamensis adults, compared to the control traps and traps with 500 mg.
Dominance and frequency of predatory mites in stored products in Greece.
Authors: Eliopoulos P. A. , Athanassiou C. G. , Palyvos N. E. , Stathas G. J. , Buchelos C. T.
Published: November 2017

During a two-year (1999-2000) survey of the mite fauna of stored products in Greece, predatory mites were collected from various stored products from different localities. The survey was conducted on grains (wheat, maize, oats, barley), flour (wheat, maize), legumes and dried fruits (figs, raisins, sultanas) stored in varying quantities in different types of storage facilities, such as large concrete silos, warehouses, flat granaries, farm stores, flour mills and household premises. The greatest presence of predatory mites was recorded in grain. Fourteen taxa of predatory mites, belonging to two orders and six families, were recorded. The most abundant and frequent species was Cheyletus malaccensis, followed in decreasing order by Blattisocius keegani, Cheyletus eruditus, Acaropsis docta [Acaropsellina docta] and Blattisocius tarsalis. Differences in composition of predatory mite fauna among product categories were also noted.
Degradation of insect myosin affects reliability of ELISA test for internal insect infestation of wheat.
Authors: Atui M. B. , Flinn P. W. , Lazzari F. A. , Lazzari S. M. N.
Published: November 2017

Current tests for assessing insect contamination in stored grain and milled products are based on insect fragment counts. These procedures have a certain degree of subjectivity, are time consuming, require highly trained personnel, and are relatively expensive. The ELISA test is a novel tool for detecting insects and their fragments inside the kernels or in flours. The method is based on the immuno-diagnostic assay of insect muscle myosin. However, myosin tends to degrade after the insect dies. Therefore, the aim of this research is to measure myosin degradation in flour samples over a period of time and to evaluate the efficiency of ELISA in detecting decreasing amounts of this muscle protein. Testing was carried out using flour samples obtained from 1500 g of wheat kernels, some of which were infected with Rhyzopertha dominica larvae. The samples were kept at room temperature (24°C) for 32 days. At the beginning of the study (day 1), insect myosin concentration in the samples averaged 3.3 ng/well. At the end (day 32) the concentration had decreased to an average of 2.3 ng/well. The study showed that the ELISA methodology is appropriate for measuring myosin content in flour samples, which results from the presence of insect muscle fragments in the kernels. Equations were developed to predict the original amount of myosin in the samples, based on time and temperature. Although the test is sensitive to small amounts of myosin, it is best to process samples within one week of milling, or to freeze the samples if they cannot be processed within a week. Further studies are needed to improve this methodology and to develop specific ELISA kits for the main stored-insect species.
Phenology and spatial analysis of some Coleoptera infesting a feed mill.
Authors: Trematerra P. , Sciarretta A.
Published: November 2017

Stored-product Coleoptera were collected by food-bait traps on the ground floor of a feed mill in Central Italy. A total of 3396 beetles were found during the one-year (2000-2001) survey; a more abundant presence of specimens occurred in July and August, whereas a lesser presence was observed during February and March. The species and specimen numbers collected were different at different trap sites and changed according to the sites. Tribolium confusum, was the most abundant and widespread insect, followed by Oryzaephilus surinamensis, Tribolium castaneum, Attagenus brunneus, Sitophilus oryzae, and Stegobium paniceum. Large catches of O. surinamensis, T. castaneum, and T. confusum allowed us to tabulate monthly trap catches for the different areas of the feed mill. Comparisons of the spatiotemporal dynamics of these pests suggest that the populations were segregated in both space and time. The spatial and temporal distributions are strongly affected by such factors as food availability, processing practices, temperature conditions in different premises, and interaction among species.
Oviposition response of the Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) to food oil constituents.
Authors: Nansen C. , Phillips T. W. , Dillwith J. W.
Published: November 2017

We present data from an ongoing study on the oviposition response of P. interpunctella to food oils. The following questions were addressed: (1) are different food oils equally attractive to ovipositing P. interpunctella females? (2) What is the lowest oil dosage applied to wheat kernels which will to elicit a positive oviposition response by P. interpunctella females? (3) Which chemical fraction of the food oil seems to generate the positive oviposition response? Food oils were applied to whole wheat kernels and used as oviposition baits. In nine-choice experiments with one control oviposition bait (plain wheat kernels) and eight oviposition baits in which wheat was treated with food oils, P. interpunctella females showed a positive oviposition response to walnut oil. A subsequent dosage response experiment revealed that P. interpunctella females responded positively to oil dosages as low as 0.025 µl walnut oil per 1 g wheat kernel. Based on acid-base fractionation and thin layer chromatography, we demonstrated that the positive oviposition response to walnut oil by P. interpunctella females was mainly attributed to the free fatty acid complex. Identification of compounds that are attractive to P. interpunctella females may be used to develop trapping devices for the moths, and such traps could be used, for instance, for mass trapping and in lure-and-kill approaches (combining the attracting agent with pathogens or pesticides).
Attracticide for control of Indian meal moth, Plodia interpunctella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae).
Authors: Nansen C. , Phillips T. W.
Published: November 2017

In the present study, we evaluated attracticides using the Last Call CM gel as a carrier for varying concentrations of permethrin and the main compound of the female-produced pheromone [(Z,E)-9,12-tetradecadienyl acetate (Z9,E12-14:Oac), here referred to as ZETA]. A toxicity trial showed that even subtle contact of P. interpunctella males with attracticidal gel containing 3-18% permethrin caused a significant reduction in mating and killed male moths within 24 h. Upwind flight studies in a wind tunnel showed that male flight response to the attracticidal gel was significantly lower when the ZETA concentration was 0.32% compared to 0.16%, but P. interpunctella males showed no signs of repellency to permethrin concentration within a range of 0-18%. Hence, we recommend the use of 18% permethrin as this will reduce the likelihood of sublethal poisoning of males. From studies in semi-realistic warehouses, we conclude that the attracticidal gel may provide efficient control when used in environments in which the moth density is still at a low level.
The effectiveness of different methods of detecting and enumerating insects in stored grain.
Authors: Couldridge C. , Wilkin R. , Knight J.
Published: November 2017

The efficiency of PC (pitfall cone) and Trécé Probe II traps for monitoring Sitophilus granarius were compared to conventional spear sampling. The work was carried out under laboratory conditions at 10, 15, 20 and 27°C. The efficiency of the traps was estimated by calculating the proportion of weevils trapped in each test bin from a known population density, to improve trap catch interpretation in farm and commercial grain stores in the UK. The results showed that both types of trap in small bins at 1 per kg are more than 20 times more effective at detecting S. granarius adults than conventional spear sampling techniques. A significant negative relationship between probe trap catch and temperature was observed in the larger bins. The high probe trap catches at 10 and 15°C were attributed to the movement of weevils deeper into the grain bulk where conditions were more favourable for survival. The opposite relationship was observed in the 500-kg bins and this was attributed to differences in the distribution of weevils. PC traps showed no significant correlation between temperature and trap catch in either bin type. However, surface PC traps caught consistently more weevils than pitfall traps buried 15 cm deep, except in the small bins at 27°C, in which weevils started to reproduce after six weeks. The results of the experiment have contributed to our knowledge of how temperature affects trap catch. The need for continued work in larger bulks of grain is highlighted.
Response of the parasitoids of stored-product moths, Habrobracon hebetor, Trichogramma evanescens and Venturia canescens (Hymenoptera: Braconidae, Trichogrammatidae, Ichneumonidae), towards three types of funnel traps.
Authors: Schöller M. , Prozell S.
Published: November 2017

The response of the parasitoids of stored-product moths, H. hebetor [Bracon hebetor], Trichogramma evanescens and Venturia canescens, towards funnel traps was tested under semi-field conditions. Three types of differently coloured traps were tested: dark green traps; traps with a green top, yellow funnel and white cup; and traps with a green top, green funnel and transparent cup. The spectral reflection of the colours of the traps was determined. The traps were baited with the synthetic main component of the female sex pheromone, ZETA. In additional trials conducted with V. canescens, traps were provided exclusively with ZETA (i.e. without water) or exclusively with water (i.e. without ZETA). Most individuals of T. evanescens and V. canescens were caught with the yellow/white funnel/cup combination followed by the green/transparent combination. The fewest parasitoids were caught with the green traps. Traps baited exclusively with water and those with water and ZETA caught about the same number of parasitoids (32%). The present study suggested that the colour of the funnel traps is responsible for the attractiveness towards the tested parasitoids. Depending on the colour of the traps, they can be used to trap both moth pests and naturally occurring parasitoids. Moreover, funnel traps were identified that attract the moths, but not the beneficial organisms. Monitoring can therefore be integrated with mass releases of parasitoids.
Responses of house mice (Mus musculus musculus L.) to different bait stations: the role of size, shape, material and odour.
Authors: Volfová R. , Stejskal V.
Published: November 2017

Currently, baiting is the most common method used to control mice populations, and the form of the bait station may affect acceptance of baits. Therefore, the aim of our work was to compare the preference of house mice (M. musculus musculus, collected from Prague, Czech Republic) for different bait stations in a new environment. We explored the behaviour of male and female mice in three types of experiments conducted under semi-natural conditions. In the first experiment, six different types of empty bait station were simultaneously offered to mice. In the second experiment, the mice could choose between two bait stations made of different material. The third trial tested the response of mice to the odours of different conspecific located in two identical stations. The results showed that house mice introduced into a new environment significantly preferred the largest plastic box: they are probably searching not only for food but also for a safe shelter ("bed and breakfast strategy"). If mice had an opportunity to select between two stations of the same size and shape but different materials, they much more frequently entered a metal station than a paper one. In the third experiment, adult males visited most frequently those stations scented with the odour of adult - sexually and socially experienced - females and males. Conversely, they took only a little notice of the odour of sexually naive individuals. Female preference for some specially scented bait stations was not observed. Our results showed that, to control house mice, careful attention should be paid to selecting the correct type of bait station.
Comparing insect infestation patterns in stored corn for three temperature management methods: summer 2001 pilot bin trials.
Authors: Ileleji K. E. , Maier D. E. , Woloshuk C. P. , Szabela D. A.
Published: November 2017

The primary objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effectiveness of using three temperature management strategies (no aeration, ambient aeration and chilled aeration) to control insect pest densities in stored maize during the warm spring and hot summer months. From the spring through the summer of 2001, these three strategies were implemented in 11 pilot bins with approximately 9.1 tonnes (362 bushels) of shelled maize at the Purdue University Post-Harvest Education and Research Center (PHERC). Probe traps and pheromone-baited sticky flight traps were installed in the bins to monitor crawling insects in the grain bulk and flying insects (primarily the Indian meal moth) in the bin headspace, respectively. Temperatures in the bins with no aeration and ambient aeration were above 64°F (18°C) for most of the sampling period - the lower developmental threshold for most stored-product pests. However, the target temperature set at 60°F (15.6°C) for the bins with chilled aeration was maintained by the chiller for most of the storage period. The average moisture content of the stored maize bulk was within the safe storage limit to maintain quality and prevent moulding. A wide variety of insects in the order Coleoptera (beetles) were found in the probe traps. Insect density per day estimated from probe trap catch in the grain bulk indicated that insect density increased as temperature increased from spring into the summer months. Insect density in the bins with no aeration was significantly higher than in bins with ambient and chilled aeration between July and September. Chilled aeration indicated better control of insect pests than ambient aeration. Indian meal moth (Plodia interpunctella) density per day estimated from pheromone-baited sticky flight traps indicated an increase as a function of head-space air and grain surface temperatures in all three pest management strategies. The Indian meal moth population density was not significantly different between the three management strategies for most of the sampling periods. The radiation from the bin roof created similar headspace conditions, and hence dissipated the effects of any cooling of the grain mass. Nevertheless, the chilled aeration strategy provided the lowest Indian meal moth density overall.